Laughter riots
Gutthi was a big hit in Comedy Nights with Kapil. But as Chutki of Mad In India, will the character create similar magic
Jasmine Singh

We hear it yet again… laughter is the best medicine. Laughter kills stress, laughter has a healing touch. Then the news about a popular TV character Gutthi quitting Comedy Nights With Kapil and joining a new show Mad In India pours in.

No, we don’t laugh for we have been hearing rumours about Sunil Grover who made Gutthi a household name having problems with the channel as well as Kapil Sharma. The present situation is that Sunil Grover now takes his character to the show Mad In India with a new name Chutki. As a ‘matter of laughter’ Chutki, is getting a mixed reviews from the viewers with some calling it a sad copy of Gutthi. Those who survive on the dose of laughter now find themselves making a choice between Gutthi and Chutki, the new show and the old show ….

Gutthi is different from Chutki feel those who have been following the two characters. “It is not about the two shows Comedy Nights With Kapil or Mad In India, the fun with Gutthi came through the hilarious situations are missing in Mad In India,” shares Kiran Bajwa, a school teacher from Ludhiana who downloaded most of the episodes of KNWK just to see and hear Gutthi at her best. Kiran has also had a chance to meet Sunil Grover who plays Gutthi once in Chandigarh. “I have missed so many family functions because of Gutthi but when I saw Gutthi as Chutki I was disappointed. Sunil is still good, it is something about the situations or punches that are not funny,” she adds.

Well many regular TV viewers do not find any madness in Mad In India, and there are those who feel that it is difficult to accept a popular character in another role and another name. Manish Saluja, a stock analayst in Mohali can pin point some marked differences in the two characters, Gutthi and Chutki. “Gutthi was fun, spontaneous, the character would make you roll in laughter. It has some funny traits like the desi dance steps and her sing song style. Chutki is shy, the character makes you laugh but not uncontrollably.”

Sunil Grover the man of moment has mentioned in one of his interviews that the character of Gutthi is not similar to Chutki. “However, the objective is the same: to bring a smile on the face of the audience,” he says. Comparison in an individuals work can enhance the quality and can also be damaging. “To me, it is not about Gutthi or Chutki,” Diljot, Punjabi film actress who makes her debut with Yaar Anmulle 2 shares, “It is about a character that can make me laugh irrespective. And mostly, the situations are funny, comedians react to them, this is why in Punjabi films we still like those comedians that are repeated in different films.”

Kapil Sharma, who made it a point to watch the inaugural episode of his former associate Sunil Grover’s Mad In India, says the latter shouldn’t have ever quit his show Comedy Nights With Kapil. Sunil Grover effectively and effortlessly portrayed Gutthi in Comedy Nights With Kapil before leaving the show late last year he offers.

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Keepin’ it real
Hamza and Aaqib of rock band Moon Dogs are happy to have come so far
Ashima Batish

It’s not an unusual name for a rock band, Moon Dogs. It was a part of the nomenclature when Beatles renamed themselves from ‘Johnny and the Moondogs’. Even their genre is favourite with most of the rock bands- Indi Rock.

You talk to them and they come across as musicians, who love to talk about their form of music, lyrics, future plans, again not something that promises a difference in approach. Yet, they stand out, a part for their almost-perfect career trajectory and rest for their background, Kashmiri.

Aaqib and Hamza of the four member band, Moon Dogs, are faring at the third position in the NH7 Weekender concert. Their track, Brief Grief, is featuring in the top 100 of Balcony TV list. “Our accomplishments are making us popular, but it is also for the reason that we belong to where music is not a part of life. The society though has gradually opened up,” says the duo who was in Chandigarh on Sunday to perform at the Blue Blazer.

If you refer to the all girls band, Pragaash, which called it quits after their performance was politicized last year, it is indeed a feat for Moon Dogs to gain popularity on the basis of their music. “We have selective and genuine audience even back home in Jammu. It’s however sad to see art being drawn into politics, when there are bigger issues to address,” says Hamza referring to the infamous incident of Pragaash. In just three years they have been able to increase their gigs from two in six months to now eight in a month. Aaqib adds. More so, their song, Invaders, posted on the You Tube got as many as 2250 hits in a span of 15 days. “It feels good to see that people have developed a liking for original compositions by rock bands.”

Coming to their lyrics, they are in shades of grey, which don’t directly allude to the problems of youth back home, but has a lot to read in between the lines. Followers of Beatles, The Doors, The Beach Boys and rock bands of Pakistan of 60’s and 90’s, they confess that independent music scene is better in Pakistan than in India. “It is because there is nothing like Bollywood to feed people’s music needs. It’s a blessing in disguise,” this time Hamza takes the lead. But that doesn’t mean they are anti-Bollywood. As they say, if an offer comes, they will be glad to work on it. And if it doesn’t, “Then we are more than happy doing what we are getting better at, live gigs across India,” Aaqib adds. Also on the agenda is shifting base to Delhi. Living out of the suitcase is seldom easy.

ashima@tribunemail.com

The bad man
Actor Vikramjit Virk is keen on essaying a positive character after playing umpteen negative roles…
Gurvinder Singh

He is chiseled as a model, but turns a venomous villain, as he rattles the words he doesn't understand but knows what they mean. The wicked laughter, crinkled brow, intense eyes give shudders to others as he unleashes the demoniac wrath.

Vikramjit Virk has carved an unlikely niche as a villain in the southern cinema. The first destination on the life map beginning at a Karnal village, for young Vikram was Delhi, where he flaunted his gait, wearing designer labels on the ramp for a few years as a model, before moving to Mumbai. He got 'noticed' bagged his first role in Khelen Hum Jee Jaan Se, an Ashutosh Gowarikar movie in '09. His 'potential' for negative roles was recognised early, for he was chosen to play dirty in Malayalam flick Casanova. He then played one of the first attackers of the Indian soil as Mahmud Ghaznavi in television series Shobha Somnath Ki. His Punjabi break came with Yaaran Naal Baharan 2, after which he retreated south to act in Telugu movie Badshah and later Dheermavaram Bullodu. He is currently doing an epic Telugu film Rudhrama Devi, says the actor. “It is the first Indian 3D film, and would be presented in Tamil, Telugu and Hindi,” he says.

Having worked in different industries, he says that the southern film industry is very professional, organised and technically sound. “They are very professional and treat artists in professionally,” he says. Although he doesn’t really understand the southern languages, Vikram finds it challenging to work in the cinema, as he has to portray the roles within the meaning he is told, because he doesn’t understand the language.

Not contended with doing just any film on offer, he says that he only wants to do roles that are powerful, and have an impact and impression on your mind. “It doesn’t matter whether you are playing a positive or a negative character, or the language you are acting in. What matters is how important and powerful the character is,” says the young actor.

And that search for such a role has so far kept him from doing more Punjabi movies, as he is waiting to play such a good role.

it’s rocking
Three’s company

For all those of you who fancy the kind of music that feeds your soul, Caroline, a song by The Mae Trio on Balcony TV is all that you need! The Melbourne-based band of three young musicians, The Mae Trio, is fast making a name for themselves in the Australian music scene.

Maggie Rigby (banjo, ukulele, guitar, marimba and vocals) Elsie Rigby (fiddle, ukulele and vocals) and Anita Hillman (cello, bass and vocals) started playing music together late 2011. All three members of the trio write their own songs and these are tastefully arranged to suit the group's diverse instrumental talents and love of three part vocal harmony. The Mae Trio were the recipients of the 2013 Folk Alliance Youth Award at the National Folk Festival. Here's what the city folk have to say about the song.

Original take

I love the song, especially the music. The vocals are brilliant and so is the music. I love their music sense and the fact that they are too original with their music and lyrics. They make beautiful music.

Akansh Bedi, businessperson

Beautiful treatment

It's a very nice soulful and meaningful song. What I like the most about the song is the ideation and the way it has been treated. It's melodious, brilliantly sung and very original, which is the essence of its beauty.

Anahita Sachdeva, student, Panjab University

Folk feel

The song has no percussions, if you must have noticed. It's just a clear bass line and mandolin, which gives it a very folk feel. It's a very beautiful fusion of contemporary and folk, the vocal and instrumental octave shifts are totally amazing and all in all, it's the kind of song that reaches your soul. Pure and beautiful!

Svati Saggi, student, BRS Dental College

In harmony

It's a very beautiful song. The most compelling thing about the song is the vocals. These three women are divine and they way the strike a harmony is exceptional. I love the song and also, the content of the song. It's truly worth a hear!

Bindi Shah, web developer

— As told to Amarjot Kaur

Weight watch
Eat, pray, lose
Renupreet Kaur

Are you having a hard time sticking to your diet plan? Yes, it's really difficult to stick to extremely low-calorie diets, which can hurt your long-term success. Boredom and hunger can both undermine your weight-loss goals. It is important to remember that too much or crash weight loss has many negative consequences for the body and your health.

Everyone has different body structure. While one person may be very thin naturally and may not be suffering from any negative health effect, but for others losing their weight may be unachievable without putting one's body under dangerous stress.

You are what you eat

Cutting calories is an approach most dieters take to meet their weight-loss goals. But it is once in a while that people take calorie restrictions too far, ultimately making their weight loss slower and more difficult by slowing their metabolism. As the saying goes, "We are what we eat." Our food choices have a huge impact on how we look and feel, both physically and mentally.

Understand calorie

Eating a well-rounded and varied diet will go a long way towards making sure you have all the nutrients you need. Remember that our body uses everything we put into it, and what we give it determines how it's used - for good health, or for bad.

Low calorie diet does not mean the consumption of reduced amounts of calorie-rich foods. Such a diet only precipitates hunger, causes interim weight loss and deprives the body of nutrition. An unplanned low calorie diet which is also devoid of important nutrients having a low nutritional value is, therefore, unable to regulate metabolism in the body, which can be the cause of lifestyle diseases.

What to eat

  • Fat-free (skim) milk instead of whole milk
  • Fat-free frozen yogurt instead of ice- creams
  • Graham crackers, ginger snaps, fig bars instead of cookies
  • Egg whites or egg substitutes instead of whole eggs
  • Canned broth-based soups instead of canned cream soups.
  • Jelly, jam, or honey on bread or toast instead of butter or margarine on toast or bread.
  • Chicken or turkey without skin (white meat) instead of chicken or turkey with skin, duck or goose.
  • Opt for fresh or frozen vegetables over canned vegetables.
  • Chocolate syrup instead of fudge sauce

In addition to above, avoid processed or pre-packaged foods. Processed foods like canned soups or frozen dinners contain hidden sodium that quickly surpasses the recommended limit. Simply choosing low fat products when there is an option is a good way to reduce fat and calories.

Think long term

  • Always go in for lifestyle change and not for short-term diet. Permanent weight loss is not something that a "quick-fix" diet can achieve.
  • Low calorie diet is not recommended for children, adolescents, and pregnant women. Individuals who usually go on such a diet are extremely overweight. Dieters usually lose 0.5 to 2 kg per week or a total of about 5 kg in 4 weeks. The specifics of the weight loss diet are hard to describe as the diet mainly depends on one's individual needs. To set yourself up for success, think about planning a healthy diet as a number of small manageable steps rather than drastic change.

(Renupreet Kaur is diet therapist and obesity expert)

stress buster
Take control of your life
Renee Singh

There are some qualities we are born with and emotional resilience is one of them. Some of us are lucky enough to have this in us but it can be and should be learned and developed. If you are the type who would like to handle life's challenges whether they are major or minor with greater ease, to grow from adversity and turn potentially negative events into positive ones, you definitely need to be more resilient.

''As we advance in life and in years, coping with stress becomes more and more difficult, but in fighting the difficulties, the inmost strength of the heart is developed,'' Vincent Van Gogh said these very wise words which are most applicable in today's day and age.

What is emotional resilience?

This refers to one's ability to adapt to stressful situations or crisis. Most resilient people can 'roll with the punches’ and adapt to adversity with no difficulties. Less resilient people have a harder time with stress and life changes. It has been found that those who deal with minor stresses more easily can also manage major crises with ease. Resilience has its benefits for daily life or when faced with tragedy.

What influences emotional resilience?

By and large it is something we are born with. Some people by nature are less upset by changes. This trait can more or less be observed from childhood and can be noticed as a level of stability through one's lifetime. Emotional Resilience is also related to some factors that are not under your control such as age, gender and exposure to trauma.

Resilience is not a quality that you do or do not possess. There are varying degrees to how well you can handle stress and there are certain characteristics that are common to all.

Emotional awareness

People with emotional awareness understand what they are feeling and why.

Perseverance pays

Those with perserverance are action oriented and do not give up.

Positive thinking

Optimists see positives in all situations and believe in their own strengths.

Social support

Some of us tend to understand the value of social support and surround ourselves with supportive family and friends.

Sense of humour

Those with a sense of humour are able to laugh at life's difficulties.

Spiritual streak

Being connected to your spiritual side has been connected with stronger emotional resilience. If you are internally connected you are definitely on a strong foundation level.

Individual perspective

  • Resilient people are able to learn from their own mistakes.
  • They see obstacles as challenges.
  • Allow adversity to make them stronger.
  • Find meaning in life's challenges.
  • Do not see themselves as victims.

How to become more resilient?

Emotional resilience can be developed Stress and change are a part of life. There is much opportunity to practice resilience. We require to have interest and commitment and the results are remarkable.

Many people know of coping strategies which can help with stress. With diet and exercise programs one can cope with stress very well. The most successful individuals are those that can maintain a long term effort. Don't give up your situation and trust the process.

Just be patient with yourself and you will make yourself emotionally resilient.

(Singh is a Chandigarh based psychotherapist)

TRENDSETTER
Casually classy

Deeptanshu Thukral Photo: Pradeep Tewari
Deeptanshu Thukral Photo: Pradeep Tewari

Every person has a sense of style. Yet, there are only a few who'd attract the second glances. It could be tuxedos, it could be torn jeans. Our this week's face in the crowd Deeptanshu Thukral, 27, manager in an MNC, believes in dressing up to the hilt.

Describe your sense of style …

My style is classy and sophisticated and I usually dress up casually with a tee and a pair of pants. I go for apparels, which are well fitted.

The latest addition in your wardrobe…

Since I'm quite fond of watches, my latest addition is by Pard Vuireal.

Brand freak or street smart?

Brand freak. Brands ensure that you have the latest styles in your wardrobe and quality.

Your style icon …

My style icon is Shah Rukh Khan because he presents himself so impeccably. No matter what he's wearing, a worn out shirt or high end label.

Choose one: sporty, glamorous or chic?

Anyday glamorous. You can never go wrong with.

Who's the worst-dressed celebrity around?

Vidya Balan. She's already been criticised enough.

One fashion trend you don't understand…

Tight fitting pants. It's a disaster, at least for men.

Your take on accessories

For me, accessories mean fragrances and my favourite would be Guilty by Gucci. Then of course belts are any guy's favourite.

You would love to be dressed up by…

Manish Malhotra. We all know he is a great designer. Though he is popularly associated with women's wardrobe but he does some great stuff for men's clothing too.

— As told to Manpriya Singh

Film fiesta

Chandigarh Sangeet Natak Akademi and Embassy of the Czech Republic are going to organise a three day Czech Film Festival from February 26 to 28. 2014 at Government Museum Auditorium—10, Chandigarh.

Kolja (February 26)

Oscar winning film is directed by one of the best Czech film directors Jan Sverak in 1996.

The film begins in 1988 while the Soviet bloc is beginning to disintegrate. František Louka, a middle-aged Czech man dedicated to bachelorhood and the pursuit of women, is a concert cellist struggling to make out a living by playing funerals at the Prague crematorium. He has lost his previous job at the Czech Philharmonic due to having been half-accidentally blacklisted as "politically unreliable" by the authorities. A friend offers him a chance to earn a great deal of money through a sham marriage to a Russian woman. Due to a concurrence of circumstances, she has to leave behind her five-year-old son, Kolya, for the Czech musician to look after. The heartbreaking drama Kolja gained the Oscar Award for the Best Foreign Film.

Grapes (February 27)

The Film is directed by Tomas Barina. The film portrays the picturesque nature of Moravia, with its typical folklor music, delicious wine, relaxed lifestyle and teenager troubles and love.

Little Girl Blue (February 28)

Film is directed by one of the rising stars among the new generation of Czech film directors, Alice Nellis, who portrays the current life in Prague from an interesting female perspective.

Daily at 6pm at Government Museum

Auditorium - 10. The entry to festival is free. — TNS

Randeep Hooda: I don’t do conventional things

In Bollywood, the leading actors either belong to a high profile family or are related to someone famous from the industry. However, there are actors like Randeep Hooda who are known for their acting skills and their struggle. He talks about his latest film Highway, his past failures and more...

On a road trip

For Highway, I travelled 2,500 kilometres by road. The experience was good. Every morning we would get up and travel to a new destination. The scenery was new, the clothing was different, the food was different, the feeling was different and people were different at each place. We travelled like one huge caravan with lots of Innovas, buses and our Tata 407 truck. The stay and food arrangements were really good at all the places. Imtiaz himself is a foodie. He loves his food and still manages to stay so thin. Sometimes I would think that he selected a location to shoot because they served the food he likes (laughs).

Personal touch

Every good director, when he casts an actor, writes the script or changes the script according to the actor. I am sure Imtiaz also did that. My character was well written. I didn't improvise much. For all my movies I work on my character thoroughly, though sometimes I don't get the script and sometimes I get the dialogues only on the sets.

John Day failure

I feel people look at movie trailers, the music, the star cast and then come to watch the film. If John Day had been produced by a big producer and if they had marketed it aggressively, then probably a lot of people would have come to see the film. I keep doing independent films and I enjoy playing such roles. Yes, sometimes I feel it is a waste that not many people see such films even after the hard work you put in. If I had done the same in some big commercial film, I would be a superstar. People compliment me for movies that I detest. I won't say the name of the movies. But I also feel that nothing goes waste and mostly the experience counts.

Unconventional approach

I don’t do conventional things like dancing and all. I pick things that are different and say no to scripts that are similar even if they are from a big production house. It is important to keep filmmakers interested in you so they can offer you everything and anything. We actors are not given work on the basis of an audience poll; the filmmaker will cast you after seeing and liking your work. It is essential to do different kinds of films. There was a time in the past when I had no work. That time also I did not lose myself as an actor.

CHATTER BOX

A story about the nation’s birth

National ties: Shyam Benegal at the Parlaiment Library for Samvidhaan "Telling the story of the birth of a nation is never easy, especially if that nation is as big and diverse as India," says Shyam Benegal about Samvidhaan-The Making of the Constitution of India, a 10-part mini-series produced by Rajya Sabha Television that will go on air on March 2nd at 10 am every Sunday.

National ties: Shyam Benegal at the Parlaiment Library for Samvidhaan

"Our founding fathers took 2 years, 11 months and 17 days to frame our constitution. The story of telling how they did this has nearly taken us that much time." Written by Shama Zaidi and Atul Tiwari, this television series is a concept by Rajya Sabha Television. "It is the Constitution of India that created the framework for a strong, vibrant and progressive nation. The inspiring story of the making of our constitution has never been attempted before. Our endeavour is to create programs that document contemporary history of Independent India," says Gurdeep Singh Sappal, CEO Rajya Sabha Television.

After over two months of shooting at Film City, Mumbai, where the set of a replica of the Central Hall of Parliament was constructed, the action shifted to the Parliament House in New Delhi where the crew shot extensively for three weeks. This is the first time that a television series has been shot at the Parliament House.

"Before independence we had a feudal, hierarchical and divisive society. To root that out by looking into the future to build a constitution that can last hundreds of years was I think the greatest achievement of these 300 odd men and women who worked on the constitution and Samvidhaan is their story," said writer Shama Zaidi.

Meanwhile, Sachin Khedekar, who plays Dr B R Ambedkar said, "It was a privilege to play the role of a man who is known as the father of the Constitution, but it was perhaps the most challenging role of my life. What I found most exciting is that what Ambedkar and others said in the constituent assembly, continues to be relevant till date." The role of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, that was played by Dalip Tahil, for the second time in his career said, "I had to loose weight for the role. I had to be like Nehru, think like Nehru. We talk of development today, but the man who not only showed India, but the world how to develop a nation quickly, was Pandit Nehru." A special 23-minute curtain raiser was shown to the president, vice president, prime minister, and the members of both houses of the Parliament today.

This special capsule was simultaneously shown on Rajya Sabha TV today as members of both houses watched Shyam Benegal's TV venture after 25 years.

Ready for the second instalment?

Get ready to embrace the riveting cannibalistic evil that will come alive on television like never before! The chilling and hugely popular series, Hannibal is all set to return with a tasty turn on AXN on March 1st. The dark and haunting series returns for its second season, a year later, with shocking revelations and an addictive psychological game that will flame your appetite and increase your thirst for the sinister and deadly. After an epic season 1, where the viewer's got a bite of Dr Hannibal Lecter's world and the transformation of Will Graham to a complex and captivating character, the latest season emphasizes on the understated sinful nature of the show's title character. The new season retains the diabolically effective serial killer characteristics and nerve wrecking themes making this outlandish psychosomatic thriller a must watch, if you have the stomach for it. Watch the second season of the series on AXN at 9 pm on March 1st.

Back with a bang

Maya Digital Studio in association with Nickelodean announced the launch of the 3rd season of their renowned comic series Motu Patlu. A favourite amongst kids and parents, the new series will be aired from March 1st onwards at 12:30 pm, 4:30 pm and 6:00 pm everyday. Ketan Mehta, Chairman & Managing Director, Maya Digital Studios, said, "Given the success of Motu Patlu and the roaring TRP, Nickelodeon decided to launch Motu Patlu season 3. We have signed up a new agreement of series of episodes and couple of feature film of 70 minutes". Inspired from the characters of Lot Pot Comics, Motu Patlu are lively comic capers that are set in the beautiful city of Furfuri Nagariya and are as similar as chalk and cheese. Motu Patlu are always on an adventurous expedition and have an uncanny ability to get into tricky situations. The comic duo being the highest TRP gainers will be seen again on Nickelodean channel with all-new slapstick comedy episodes.

Shoot at sight!

Best of the Best, a reality show that features several teams of models and ace photographers on a journey to get the best possible shot, is the new show on FOX Traveller. The show takes teams of 14 stunning bikini models and 12 brilliant photographers, and pits them against each other to see who will be crowned the best model and best photographer in the Best of the Best competition.

Watch out for behind-scene drama and funny antics between the models and photographers as they work together to get that perfect shot. The show will air every Monday to Wednesday at 11pm from February 25 onwards only on FOX Traveller.

Wedding bells

Rakshandha Khan, who had been dating Sachin Tyagi for many years, will soon make it official and tie a knot. They will marry on March 15 and the sangeet ceremony will take place on March 13. Both of them have been part of many hit shows on television.

Playing host: Pratyusha BanerjeeUp for a cause

After Bigg Boss 7, Pratyusha Banerjee will now be seen hosting a crime show. Like Hiten Tejwani and Pooja Gor, now Pratyusha will be one of the hosts on Savdhaan India and will raise her voice against crime against women.

Playing host: Pratyusha Banerjee

Occupational hazards

It is likely that Shah Rukh Khan will need knee surgery after a door fell at him at a five-star hotel during the shooting of Happy New Year. He also received a head injury. Poor guy!

Playing with fire

Tabu was in Kashmir shooting for Haider and she felt very cold. She decided to spend some time near a bonfire but that made her breathless and she had to be hospitalised. She was discharged after four hours and the shoot was cancelled for the day.

A brief lull before the storm

Jism 2 actor Arunodaya Singh has been out of the limelight for a while now but he is back. He will be seen in Main Tera Hero (directed by David Dhawan) and Vikram Bhatt's Mr. X. He is also doing a play called The Glass Menagerie with Amrita Puri.

Looking forward

Akshay Kumar and Salman Khan will dance together in Yo Yo Honey Singh's song in Fugly and the video will also have four newcomers in it. This will surely be a hit song!

The benchmark: A still from GundayMaking big bucks

Gunday has crossed Rs 100 crore mark through worldwide collections within a week of its release. That is not bad at all!

The benchmark: A still from Gunday

Of terrace and training

Shahid Kapoor seems to be a good influence on Sonakshi Sinha. She has tweeted that she misses her terrace training and cannot wait to get back to it! Everyone knows that Shahid Kapoor loves working out!

Meet Anushka’s dude!

Anushka Sharma flew down from Sri Lanka to meet her puppy named Dude. She was missing her handsome labrador companion, so when she got a break from shooting for Bombay Velvet, she decided to spend some time with her dog.

ASTRO TURF
P Khurrana

ARIES: Make your choices wisely. Discussing issues with friends may distract you, but it will not make any difference to your situation. Meditate and listen to your inner voice of wisdom. Tarot message: Dine with you partner to renew your relationship. Lucky colour: Forest green Magic Number: 47

TAURUS: You card "Ten of Wands" shows deception. You will feel irritated at work. A new deal may bring monetary gains. Women: control your diet, and focus on exercise. Tarot message: Adopt a diplomatic approach. Lucky colour: Orange Magic Number: 61

GEMINI: Youngsters may feel a bit lethargic. New work may prove to be lucrative. You can safely delegate responsibility of work to others. A chance encounter with a stranger may leave your heart beating wildly. Tarot message: Beware of making rash decisions when angry or upset. Lucky colour: Saffron Magic Number: 30

CANCER: You are unlikely to have any difficulty on concentrating. A Taurean plays a major role. Diplomacy and tact are the key words for the day. Your card "The Lovers" is shining its loving light on you. Tarot message: Be open to new and exciting opportunities. Lucky colour: Peach Magic Number: 42

LEO: Students: do not neglect your work. Keep business activities open and transparent. Parent's health needs attention. A foolish obligation can be dropped. Enjoy a peaceful day at home. Tarot message: Try to be as charming as possible in all situations. Lucky colour: Mauve Magic Number: 25

VIRGO: Get into work early. An influential person may acknowledge your work and encourage you to take your career further. Take notice of your food and drink intake if you want to feel better. Tarot message: Don't be selfish and see what you can do for others. Lucky colour: Silver grey Magic Number: 40

LIBRA: No matter what problems may arise, you will achieve success. A business deal is likely to get through and give you a secure income. A new budget to suit your income and lifestyle will help you to make headway. Tarot message: Take the life the way it comes. Lucky colour: White Magic Number: 52

SCORPIO: The card "Eight of Swords" bestows Saturine influence. Help those who may be feeling under the weather. A disagreement with your partner will not be resolved for a few days so don't try to push your point. Tarot message: Try to avoid serious discussions with loved ones. Lucky colour: Aqua blue Magic Number: 39

SAGITTARIUS: Budget goes topsy-turvy. You may give some of your time to work in the hospitals or institutions. Talk to those less fortunate than yourself. Nurture your well-being in a gentle and mindful way. Tarot message: Seek advice, but don't stick to it. Lucky colour: Crimson Magic Number: 48

CAPRICORN: Home and family affairs will be enjoyable. You will not be able to get teamwork going. Short trips could cause minor annoyances. An attraction to the unknown can take you away from your comfort zone. Tarot message: A shopping spree can set your budget aflutter. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic Number: 36

AQUARIUS: You are on the crest of a lucky wave. The married will be able to see more of each other. Do not sign new agreements. A hectic day for businessmen. Do not argue. Sit back and enjoy the day as it unfolds. Tarot message: Being polite and understanding. Lucky colour: Deep red Magic Number: 59

PISCES: Use your own judgment while dealing with important issues. Your family members may not like your association. Do not demonstrate your anger to anybody. A restless attitude is likely to prevail. Tarot message: Spend time on fitness routines. Lucky colour: Yellow Magic Number: 29

THE YEAR AHEAD
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is February 24...

You will be charismatic, energetic, and charming and eventually, because of this, you will be given a difficult project to carry out, which you will do well. Your loved ones will be truly happy with your spirit of initiative and will follow you with great curiosity in everything. You're quite innovative and enjoy bouncing ideas off a large group of people. Expect last minute changes and adjustments, poor timing, or an annoying glitch in anything involving papers, contracts, appointments and meetings, or previously scheduled engagements. Your shrewdness about delayed gratification stands you in good stead as March begins.

Positive colours: White, sea green, cream, light blue and rose

Select days: Friday, Thursday and Tuesday

Favourable numbers: 5 and 6

Gems recommended: Diamond rutilated quartz-the healing gemstone

Charity on birthday: Donate copper utensils or wheat to needy.

You share your birthday with Pooja Bhatt (February 24, 1972, Mumbai), who is Mahesh Bhatt’s daughter. She is currently devoting time to film production and direction. Pooja made her acting debut at 17, in 1989 with Daddy, a TV film directed by her father. She married Channel V VJ, Manish Makhija (Udham Singh). Pooja will continue in the industry on an average level due to her slow moving stars at present.





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