The Tribune, Chandigarh, India - The Tribune Lifestyle

	Encounter with truth Amarjot Kaur Rajesh Shringarpure, who plays a gangster in an upcoming television series titled Encounter, says his role is akin to that of Manoj Bajpayee in the film Satya While most of the crime shows that are telecast on Indian television lead one to an almost nauseating paranoia, there are others that only intend to thrill. You now stand a chance to watch a crime show without feeling the need to install extra locks on your door or hi-tech burglary alarms in your house! Hosted by Manoj Bajpayee, the new television series titled Encounter, will premiere on Sony TV, thereby providing you with an ultimate refuge from that man pointing at you as he says — Chain se sona hai toh ab jag jaao. Based on real stories about gangsters and encounters, the first instalment of the show will feature Rajesh Shringarpure in the lead role. "In this show, I will be playing the role of a gangster named Shankar Manney. My character in the film is quite similar to the one that Manoj Bajpayee plays in the film Satya. One ends up sympathising with him when he is killed," he says. While talking about the choice of his role, Rajesh shares that he likes a mixed bag. "I am the kind of actor who likes experimenting and more than that I prefer taking up meaty roles, which would challenge my abilities as an actor," he says. Nevertheless, Rajesh has juggled roles in television as well as films and he considers that the variety of medium works well to an actor's advantage. Rajesh has acted in several TV shows, including Sahib, Biwi Aur Ghulam, co-starring Raveena Tandon and Ayub Khan. He also played Waseem, a Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) agent in John Stockwell-directed Hollywood film titled Seal Team Six: The Raid on Osama Bin Laden, which recently premiered in the US prior to the Presidential elections there. "Be it television or films, I am the kind of person who goes for roles. I took up Encounter because of the role," he says while adding, "Except the minor research that went into getting the body language of a gangster right, for which I had to sift through several books and sites to know about the gangster I'm playing, everything else came naturally to me." When questioned about the kind of television shows that he likes, Rajesh says he does not fancy saas-bahu sagas, but likes witty comedy and crime-based shows. While talking about his future projects, Rajesh says, "I am waiting for my Hollywood film, Gandhi of The Month, which is still underway and another Bollywood film called Gurudakshina (which is the working title)." amarjot@tribunemail.com
	An emotional outlet Amarjot Kaur Yashika who has penned A Tug of War talks about the relationship problems of teenagers While in conversation with Yashika Nayyar, we stand informed that there are two kinds of books-books which she says are must read and that then there are books that fall in the category of the perfect book. "When I began writing my first book, I was certain and clear that I didn't want to write a Pulitzer winning book, but a book that people would want to read," begins Yashika, a commerce student at St Xavier's School, who just released her first book titled A Tug of War. "Often, when my friends would come up to me and discuss their issues about not getting along with their parents, I would wonder that there had to be a way that could possibly help them out," she says. "This is the main reason why I penned down this book, the contents of which discuss the vacuity of fighting with parents and it is a teenager's guide to forming happy and healthy relationships," she adds. Yashika shares that it took her almost a year to write the book and that she really had to struggle with it. However, her shortcomings and times of uncertainty were bandaged and nursed well by her teachers. "There were times when I wouldn't want to write, and even when I would, the copy would be full of mistakes, since it is my first book and I was extremely nervous. In times as weak moments as these, I was supported by my teachers," she says. Yashika never really wanted to become a writer, "I wanted to work in a corporate sector, but once I started writing the book, I didn't feel like stopping and the days when I wasn't writing, I felt like my days were going waste," she says. With a wish to write a Pulitzer-winning novel someday, Yashika signs off, leaving us with a thought that it's never too early to dream big. And then, there are some dreams that do come true! amarjot@tribunemail.com
	Green thumb Liquid asset Satish Narula By this time we start getting queries on how much water is to be given to which species as there is shortage of water due to the onset of summer months. But all thanks to the weather conditions, we are not being asked about this aspect as yet. However, we can not be complacent. We have to prepare you for the water management and at the same time liquid refreshment. The Administration comes under water pressure and put restrictions on the use of water for purposes like washing of vehicles and watering the lawns in the early hours. That is absolutely right as the first priority is provision for drinking water. The gardeners are, however, equally attached with plants and cannot see the plant dying for want of water. What to do? Fix priorities. There are different types of plants in the garden like trees, shrubs, climbers, pot plants, baskets and bonsai plants and the watering requirements are also different. You have to learn it by experience and hit and trial method. We give you a priority list that will help you plan. We also give you the ways on how to minimize the watering requirements. By restricting the watering during the day time, the administrations are in fact helping the gardeners. The best time to water plants is either the wee hours or the evenings; the latter being the better timing. The myth is that cacti need little water or bonsai are like other potted plants. No it's not like that. In fact, cacti too need plenty of water. Do not think they are desert plants and thus do not need much of it. But then it is about those cacti that live in desert but there you hardly get any specimen sample and it is a battle for survival. Domestic cacti give their best when these are well guarded and watered. Though in this case the watering should be done by keeping these in shallow water jackets filled with water for some time. That will protect these from direct contact and also wet the medium from below till top. Watering cacti in the evening is a better proposition. The water absorption and conservation mechanism in cacti is active during evening hours. The bonsais are the plants that need maximum understanding and watering during summer months. Any damage could spoil your efforts of years. These plants should be shifted to cooler spots in a garden. If it is not possible, one could use a green shade net to protect these plants from direct sun. There should also be a provision of overhead sprinklers. The base of the pots could be covered with moss grass that is available with nurseries. (To be concluded) (Narula is a horticulturist & landscapist)
	Astro turf P Khurrana ARIES: 'The Prince of Pentacles' infuses financial stability. You will find appreciation and applause for your culinary talents. Delays can be expected today. A happy surprise awaits you. Tarot message: Don't do anything at the cost of health. Lucky colour: Cherry-red. Magic number: 43. TAURUS: Like the 'The Knight of Cups', you are emotional in personal relationships and graceful on social occasions. You are likely to find an ideal partner. Be bold to speak out what is in your mind. Tarot message: Lack of persistence can be disastrous in business matters. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 47. GEMINI: Plan some fun and relaxation with friends and leave stress behind. 'The Magus' brings change and travel. Today you will be quite amazed to find yourself taking on a more ambitious role. Tarot message: Don't waste an opportunity by being rash or impulsive. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Magic number: 44. CANCER: 'Ace of Swords' pulls you in an opposite direction when making a decision. A yearning for overseas travel and adventure can encourage a career of your choice. Be focused. Tarot message: Keep your eyes on the future. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 28. LEO: Some very interesting and unusual people come into your sphere of business. Avoid new debt or excessive spending. Loved ones will not fully understand your daily needs. Tarot message: Time will heal all pains and wounds Lucky colour: Lotus-pink. Magic number: 33. VIRGO: 'The Prince of Cups' brings you closer to your desires, which you mask with a calm surface. You are good at getting people to express their opinions and keeping your own hidden. Tarot message: Be positive. Lucky colour: Peacock-blue. Magic number: 36. LIBRA: 'The Lovers' facilitate you to be open and inspired by new ideas. A surprise phone call can put you back in touch with a friend you have not seen for a long time. Tarot message: Do not be in the rush to spend extravagantly. Lucky colour: Silver-grey. Magic number: 54. SCORPIO: 'The Priestess' infuses promise and commitment in personal relationship. Bring up sensitive issues for discussion today. A long cherished dream can come true. Tarot message: Spend time meeting experienced people. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 37. SAGITTARIUS: ‘The prince of wands’ comes with a promise of power and energy. Lots of secrets and undercover scenarios can make for an interesting day. Tarot message: You can make things happen out of the most unlikely circumstances. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 56. CAPRICORN: 'The Fool' infuses you with courage. A neighbour has some gossip to divulge to you. However, make sure you really want to hear secrets or rumours about someone. Tarot message: Don't try to end all the deadlocks at one go. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 25 AQUARIUS: 'Ten of pentacles' bodes extremely well for relationships and romance. Today you will be able to enjoy interacting with people who share your views and thoughts. Tarot message: Do not let trivial problems haunt you. Lucky colour: Deep-red. Magic number: 28. PISCES: The karmic 'Wheel of fortune' turns in your favour today. Get a good night's sleep and cancel any late night party. Today loved ones will be more demanding. Tarot message: Capitalise on your strength and do not trust others. Lucky colour: Forest-green. Magic number: 32.
	The year ahead Madan Gupta Spatu If your birthday is April 10... The number 1 suggests that the direction of growth in your life will be toward gaining greater independence and establishing yourself as a leader. Destiny can help you gain the talents to become a skilled executive with keen administrative capabilities or perhaps a sales executive or promoter. You are a born adviser owing to number 1and the Sun. This year, you'll be highly motivated to put more energy into making your partnerships as equal and harmonious as possible. You need to conserve your energy during the first part of the year. Positive colours: Golden, Red, Brown, Cream. Select days: Sunday, Monday. Favourable numbers: 1, 4, 2, 7. Gems recommended: Yellow Sapphire, Red Coral. Charity on birthday: Donate 21 copies of Hanuman Chalisa or Chopai Sahib at any religious place. You share your birthday with actress-turned-politician Jaya Bachchan (April 10, 1948, Jabalpur), who is the wife of Big B, mom of Abhishek Bachchan and mother-in-law of Aishwarya Rai. Combination of 1 and 9 will ensure that both politics and films will go side by side for her in the coming times.
	Chatter box Meeting Sachin! Jay Soni and his wife Pooja Soni had gone for a mini-honeymoon of four days to Goa. To his great surprise, the villa adjacent to theirs was occupied by cricketer Sachin Tendulkar and what's more his wife Anjali recognised him. He says, "It was fantastic to bump into Sachin Tendulkar. I had never seen him in Mumbai but in Goa I could meet him. His wife was aware that I am an actor from Sanskaar. It was really motivating." Matter of talent Gaurav Chopraa, who completed ten years in the industry, feels the new talent burns out fast in the industry. He feels actors need to do four or more hit shows to be called stars, but as the makers publicise them a lot they think they are one. Moving on Dipika Samson has quit her hit show Sasuraal Simar Ka. The actress apparently felt her character did not have any scope for growth. She has put in her papers and the makers are looking for a replacement. Comic timing Mandira Bedi will soon be back on TV, as a judge on a stand-up comedy show. Buzz is that the show is inspired from Nautanki-The Comedy Theatre that had Tusshar and Neha Dhupia as judges. The new show will be a satire on the daily lives of people. While Bharti Singh will be a participant, Raveena Tandon might be the second judge. Ekta going strong Ekta Kapoor is unfazed that her two popular shows Pavitra Rishta and Bade Acche Laggte Hain aren't delivering as high ratings as they used to. She is rather excited about her new show KumKum Bhagya, which will soon air on Zee TV. Ekta feels her shows are for people who only have TV as their source of entertainment. Every vote counts! Sangram Singh is not only busy acting in a TV series Shapath in the role of a cop, but also taken it on him to create awareness regarding voting. He has become the brand ambassador for the drive to create awareness among people in Haryana about voting.
	Age no bar! Mohammad Nazim, who has been playing the role of Aham in Saath Nibhana Saathiya, is not worried about playing dad on the small screen. He talks about his character and more. How are you enjoying your role post the leap? I am happy that after three years of playing a role there is some change in Aham. Change is good. The team is very hardworking and even today we all work together. On other shows, actors come and go but not on our show. We have a lot of fun working, eating and staying together. Many actors have problems playing a dad in a TV show. Didn't you? Initially when I was told about the leap, I was a bit worried as to how I would play the part. But later when I learnt that the kid will be a 5-6 year old one, I realised it was fine and not a big deal. I didn't have a problem. If it had been a teenager, I would have had issues. As Aham your character doesn't talk much. Why? I don't think so. Earlier too I had lengthy dialogues. In fact most of the time, the conversation is between Kokila, Gopi and me. Why do you think you get linked up with your co-stars? I don't understand where and how such talks come from, but they don't bother me. There is never any awkwardness with my co-stars as everyone knows the truth. What else is new with you? I am waiting for the release of my Punjabi film Full Fukrey and have signed a Hindi horror film called Triple Sex. It's a remake of a Tamil film. — HRM
	Star Track Fardeen makes an entry Bollywood actor Fardeen Khan, who was last seen in Dulha Mil Gaya, is now back to the spotlight with an endorsement deal for a fashion brand. The 40-year-old actor has also lost weight. He says, "I am feeling on top of the world and I'm happy to be back with Provogue. I'm also working on a couple of scripts since the past year-and-a-half. I know what I want to do in terms of content. We'll start production for sure. He will soon start shooting for (director Anees Bazmee's next film No Entry Mein Entry. "As for No Entry, the screenplay of the sequel is hysterical. Anees has cracked it. It's going on the floors later this year, and I'm looking forward to it," he adds. Shahid turns a DJ Last year, on an impulse, Shahid stepped behind the console at a party and since then he has been enthusiastic about learning the craft. A source says, "He has been managing music at parties he has attended in the recent past but now he is keen to do it in a thorough manner. So much so that now Shahid has bought a console for himself. Shahid has stationed the console in his living room. It is heavy equipment connected to the speakers in his living room. Shahid spends his free time behind the console these days mixing music and trying music variations." Before getting a console Shahid actively read about the equipment and the software. He was planning to buy it for a while but his work commitments kept him at bay. Shahid has also been adding and arranging his music collection. On his recent vacation, Shahid also met various international DJs and chatted with them on new songs, varied music preferences, music festivals etc. Shahid often connects with people on music and actively talks to them about the songs they like. He is always on the lookout for new songs and follows music apps and stays updated with international sound tracks. Shahid says, "Who doesn't love music. I love it all from Bollywood to hip-hop to electronic dance music to trance. I love mixing music for people." Figure it out >> Nargis Fakhri is gorgeous and has a body to die for. She talks about her diet and fitness routine, especially the one she followed for the bikini scenes in Main Tera Hero. Variety is the spice Change your exercise routine and don't do the same thing everyday. I do a Zumba video every morning. I am going to get an elliptical machine so I can work out at home and watch Hindi movies. It is better to have a healthy lifestyle than make drastic changes Fast & foremost I eat boiled eggs and one whole-wheat toast for breakfast along with two cups of coffee with milk. Salad time I eat what my body needs but I prefer plain and bland food like steamed and raw veggies and salads. I eat quinoa instead of rice and I eat six to seven small meals a day. Foot note I do Zumba which is great for the torso and legs. I do my sit-ups on a Swiss ball. My trainer shows me exercises for my legs and stomach and I do a ton of reps with a two-kilos medicine ball. Body beautiful If I know I have to wear a bikini, then I do go the extra mile. I went on a six-day juice detox that helped me lose three kilos. From time to time, I cut out sweets and junk food and reduce my dairy intake. I also do yoga and strength training. That’s the spirit! Kareena Kapoor has bagged another meaty role. Kareena, who recently shot for an item number in Gabbar, will be seen in a pivotal role of Akshay's wife in the forthcoming film. In 2004 thriller Aitraaz, the couple has played the role of a couple and now they are again signed to play husband and wife. Kareena has just started shooting for the film. A source close to the film said, "Bebo (Kareena Kapoor) plays Akshay's wife in the film. She is killed before the film begins. So, Akshay keeps remembering her in flashbacks. The role is like that of Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in Aditya Chopra's Mohabbatein. The film's leading lady played a kind of spirit that ran across the film. Likewise in Gabbar." Kareena's friend adds, "Bebo and Akshay share a fabulous rapport. She agreed to do so again because her character propels the story forward." Produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali and directed by Krish, the film also stars Shruti Hassan. No profit, no Hrithik The real reason that Hrithik Roshan walked out of Karan Johar's Shuddhi was because the production house refused to give him forty per cent of the profits. We think the project is jinxed. Party time Item girl Maryam Zakharia loves partying in Mumbai and abroad and she loves house parties. Lauren Gottlieb and Scarlett Wilson are her buddies and all three are excellent dancers. Their current favourite song is Baby Doll from Ragini MMS 2. Pair up Pair Ranveer Singh will be paired with both Priyanka Chopra and Deepika Padukone in Bajirao Mastani as Priyanka will play his wife. It is interesting that PC and Ranveer are playing siblings in Zoya Akhtar's movie. Movie buff Arjun Kapoor watches one movie a day on average. He likes to repeat Lock, Stock, and 2 Smoking Barrels (directed by Guy Ritchie) and Ocean's Thirteen. He is yet to see Gravity and catch up on Hindi movies like Queen and Highway. Varun does it! Varun Dhawan-starrer Main Tera Hero has collected Rs 21 crore in its first weekend and these numbers are very good and encouraging, especially because it is the newcomer's solo opening. In seventh heaven Shahid Kapoor loves the colour red and the number 7. He bought a red Porsche in addition to his red Jaguar (bought previously) and his car's number is 0700. Body basics Jacqueline Fernandez cannot work out for more than an hour Actress Jacqueline Fernandez known for having one of the best bodies in Bollywood says she does not work out for more than an hour in a day. "Usually by 7 am, I am up and I do yoga by 8 am. I can't work out for more than an hour but I enjoy that one hour as it's time for me. I alternate between weight training at the gym, yoga and some cardio occasionally," Jacqueline said. When it comes to diet, Jacqueline relies on a macrobiotic diet which is the balance of grains, proteins and loads of veggies. — PTI