On firm ground
The Earth needs us as much as we need it. This Earth Day, here's catching up with celebrities who care for the Blue Planet
Jasmine Singh

Now that we are working towards cleaning our country, trying to get rid of the nefarious elements…how about sparing a thought for the environment? Even when it sounds like a dream come true - good governance and a pure environment — we could still make an effort. On Earth Day, April 22, you can pledge to respect the planet and perform at least one act that is great service to Mother Earth.

Plant a tree near your balcony, on your university campus; use the dustbin for throwing that chewing gum wrapper, make sure you have switched off the light before you head for a late night movie! Just to brush up your knowledge, The April 22 Earth Day, founded by Senator Gaylord Nelson, was first organised in 1970 to promote ecology and respect for life on the planet as well as to encourage awareness of the growing problems of air, water and soil pollution.

Now, it's up to you, whether you only want a better country without giving much thought about the environment or a combination of both! Celebrities talk about the little ways through which they contribute towards Mother Earth.

Duty bound

Symbols used by people to describe Earth Day include an image or drawing of planet earth; a tree, a flower or leaves depicting growth; or the recycling symbol. Colours used for Earth Day include natural ones such as green, brown or blue.

The "Earth Flag", which was designed by John McConnell, has been described as a "flag for all people". It features a two-sided dye printed image of the Earth from space on a dark blue field, made from recyclable, weather-resistant polyester. Margaret Mead believed that a flag that showed the earth as seen from space was appropriate.

Clean approach
Hardy Sandhu, actor-singer

In the countries I have been to, people are aware, conscious and also work towards a clean environment. They plant trees, clean up their areas, initiate cleanliness drives and do everything possible for the environment. Here, we take everything for granted - eat and throw the garbage on the road. The one thing that I do, which is not big, is that I don't litter. Even if I have to look around for a dustbin, I throw the litter in it only. This is the least I can do and now it's a habit with me.

Green cover
Arjan Bajwa, actor

I feel the need for a pollution-free environment and also know that I have to make an effort for this. So, I plant neem trees wherever I go. I plant at least 2-3 neem trees a month! This is something I am doing for my benefit. However, I don't understand the concept of conserving. I think by now we should have ample of everything — be it water or electricity. This, of course, is not happening right now.

Guiding light
Vijender Singh, boxer

Since I come from a village I know the importance of electricity, so I make sure to switch off the lights before going out and I pester my friends to do the same. Looking at the threat of global warming, it is important that we take immediate steps to curb it. I also plant trees; something I believe will not only help me but the coming generations as well.

No wastage
Roshan Prince, singer-actor

A sustainable future is what we need; if we go on wasting water like we do, I think we will soon have to buy drinking water from the malls. Disturbing the equilibrium of society in the name of development is wrong. For me it is a total no to plastic. I try and use renewable products whether it is a notepad or a bag. I like to gift people the same. I am totally against wasting water. 

Urgent need
Anuj Sachdev, actor

I don't make tall claims about preserving the environment. I just do whatever little I can. I don't litter around. At times I have walked a good stretch holding an ice-cream wrapper because I didn't find any place to throw it. My friends sometimes make fun of this, but this is important for me. I don't use air-conditioning in excess. I wonder what we will do if we run out of fresh oxygen one day.

Tree cover
Rahul Dev, actor

I feel if we collectively understand our responsibility towards the earth, it would soon be a better place. Whenever a member signs up at our fitness centre we give them a sapling to plant, which has to be done within ten days of getting the membership. The members also have to make videos when the plant the sapling. So, even after the members leave us at least they have given us and the society something. Imagine it's like planting 450 trees a year!

Taking care
Zareen Khan, actress

I think everyday should be dedicated to the earth; it is a beautiful place and it should be kept accordingly. I ensure that the lights in the house are used judiciously. If I am washing my face, I ensure I don't keep the water running. I use it when required.

jasmine@tribunemail.com

The beauty of words
For IPS officer Manmohan, whose debut novel has won national acclaim, writing is a process to revisit his self
Sanjam Preet Singh

Manmohan
LINE WISE: Manmohan Photo: Manoj Mahajan

What is difficult to write — a novel or a poem? Pose this question to IPS officer Manmohan and he makes light of the query. "Writing a novel is as difficult as writing poetry. Both genres require equal amount of hardwork," he says. Manmohan has eight anthologies of Punjabi poems to his credit and has won the Sahitya Akademi Award 2013 for his debut novel Nirvaan (redemption).

The novel revolves around two protagonists —one has ultra-Left leanings and the other is a follower of Buddhism. To get rid of their tensions and break the monotony of life, both characters take refuge in love. They seek redemption after breaking the shackles of worldliness. "The novel ends with a note that real nirvaan lies in love, compassion and association," says Manmohan (50). In the course of writing the novel, Manmohan relied on his experiences and readings — "the two ingredients that are a must for writing". "Russian writer Fyodor Dostoyevsky once told his friend not to create a story. Write from your experience. A person's experiences are more enriching than all thoughts," he says.

During one of Manmohan's tenure in Bihar, he observed the Maoist movement from close quarters. To have a better understanding of it, he studied Marxist literature. Later, on a posting in Leh, he read Buddhist philosophy and other Indian epistemologies, including Vedanta. By placing Maoism and Buddhism together, Manmohan tries to draw a parallel between the two. "The clashes between Ranvir Sena and Maoist outfits made me wonder how in the land of the Buddha, such incidents were rife. Violence is not a means to an end," he asserts.

On his journey from a poet and to a novelist, Manmohan quotes from the prologue to his novel: "Someone started digging the earth with a 'spade of language' and found another spade. This spade was used by someone at some point of time to find the 'spade of language'." And then he explains: "My journey from a poet to a novelist is similar to the quest for the 'spade of language'. My literary journey is in continuity with my poems. Rather my novel is like poetry. The sentence structure and the texture of the text are no different than any of my poems."

To young writers, Manmohan says, "Be voracious readers. Read to write should be the mantra for every writer."

Neck to neck!
Shining bright pieces of jewel stones in tribal designs sure invite those jealous glances…
Gurvinder Singh

Pieces of rock work magic when worn as jewellery around the neck. Gone are the days of beads, embellishments, delicate necklaces and modest chains, as fashion around the neck is getting funkier. Tribal designs are a huge hit when it comes to jewellery. Whether it the metal or colour, these designs are sure making a mark. "It is not only pearls and diamonds, but even chunky pieces of marbles that are part of jewellery now," says Aman, a faculty member at INIFD. "These stones are not just jewel stones that are popular in jewellery, but actual pieces of shiny stones that are now part of the neckpieces," agrees Gundeep, another faculty member at the institute.

Animal prints are everywhere and neckpieces are no exception. Animal print neckpieces are also popular. The colours vary from pastels to darks and lights. "Although neons have receded in the fashion-wear in general, when it comes to neck pieces neons are still being chosen," says Ruchi, a student in Ludhiana. Rather than going for designer suits with heavy work of embroidery, she rather prefers to wear a nice 'visible' neck piece. Most of the designs these days are the ones 'closer' to the neck. "Rather than letting the necklaces and neckpieces hang loose, the new ones circle close to the neck, as if forming a designer collar around the neck," says Kiran, another student. Long metal chains with several loops around the neck are also popular.

stress buster
Forget your fears
Renee Singh

One of the main causes of stress in our lives is fear. Although fear is not always bad, it is an emotion you are supposed to feel, like any other emotion. We always hear that if something is present and potent there is cause to be afraid. Looking at the practical reality of it, for example if there is an earthquake and you are in it, you should be afraid, but if you are just thinking of an earthquake and feeling fear, then it is an unreasonable cause for stress.

We all want to be strong, we want to be in control of our lives. We want to prove to others in this world that we can make it. But unfortunately we have fears which may be the result of a bad experience or maybe just created by our vivid imagination. Fears come in all shapes and sizes, may be a fear of heights or of animals or bugs, any fear actually, it has the power to stop you in your tracks.

Fear can overshadow living

Sometimes we are surrounded by people who are living in fear. They live in fear of sickness, fear of germs, fear of losing their job, their spouse, their best friend. Many times irrelevant fears of losing this and that and all of it which is practically non existent, none of these are present and potent. So we are living in fear of something that may or may not happen. Living in fear is really not living. It is just waiting for something bad to happen. You can of course conquer your fears by understanding why you are afraid.

Freedom from fear

One of the main reasonable in our lives is ''freedom from fear''. Releasing your fears and giving them into the hands of the Universe is the best way to keep yourself de stressed. Start living in trust, start believing in the fact that the universe conjoins with you to give you what you want, only then will you remain positive and clear about your wants and desires. Trusting your inner power and strength is the best way to get rid of any fearful thoughts that take over your life, surrender these negative thoughts to the universe and ask for positive reinforcement in your life.

Fear attack

Fear is a powerful enemy so we need a powerful ally to overcome fear. Love,as we know is the most powerful emotion therefore living in love, faith and trust is the only way to combat fear. Whoever is living in fear does not have perfect love in his life, he is not in sync with himself and the universe. It is very important to create this connection in order to lead a stress free life.

Practical ways of dealing with stress

Breathe deeply: Do not take short shallow breaths. Long deep breaths get more oxygen into your brain and muscles and more toxins are expelled by our lungs.

Put things in perspective: Sometimes stress is caused as much by the perception of a situation as the situation itself. Whenever you feel you are getting stressed take a step backwards and ask yourself whether you are worrying unnecessarily and deal with it.

Soothing music: Listening to relaxing music puts you into a more peaceful state. Anything that associates you with pleasant thoughts will drive away your fears instantly.

Distract yourself from the worry: Take 15 minutes for yourself, calm down, have a cup of tea, take a walk or take a bath, whatever suits your temperament and makes you feel better and ready to cope.

Get Real: Fears are worse than reality. Anything bad that happens once create a fear but the mind does not accept that there is no likelihood of its happening again.

Go back to basics: A good sleep, a wholesome meal, a good walk, these ease and relax you. No need to go in for complicated methods.

Talk about it: Sharing a fear makes it simpler. Share it with a friend or family member or anyone you trust.

Reward yourself: Recharge yourself by taking a massage, a candlelight dinner, a good book or whatever you enjoy.

Fears are unreasonable things that come into our lives unasked unannounced and reek havoc with our lives. They have no roots so are shaky concepts that can be thrown away easily. Make an effort to shed away your fears and start living joyfully.

(Singh is a Chandigarh based psychotherapist)

Alternative theory

Call it the placebo effect, power of faith in a system, discount it or believe it but the fact is that alternative form of medicine has come a long way. Homeopathic continues to bring people in its ambit each day. "The onset of any kind of allergy or disease happens due a combination several factors. Stress being a first and foremost. When your body's immune system weakens that spells the onset of several diseases and that is what homeopathy tries to strengthen," Dr. Batra's zonal head, north, Dr. Saurabh Kalra briefs on how the system works.

"We try to know the nature, behaviour and basic character of a person before prescribing any medicine to them," he shares while announcing World Homeopathic Month. "April 10 was birthday of Samuel Hahnemann, the originator of homeopathy. As a part of the celebrations, we are giving free consultations and medicines at a discounted rate."

The season itself spells the onset of allergies, nasal allergy, hay fever, asthma; just some of the things which homeopathy takes extreme pride in treating. "Everyday we are getting at least 5 to 7 cases of seasonal allergies. Our lifestyle is to be blamed for this. It comprises canned foods, staying indoors, environmental pollution and toxins from fertilized foods."

He adds, "All your life, you have eaten everything and suddenly you are allergic to something." Just in case, staying healthy appears a tad difficult, he spells some simple rules. "Avoid stress, fast foods, canned products. One must have only seasonal food and exercise everyday." Little changes go a long way. — TNS

Traditional take
Ravi Dhillon's latest track, Pagg talks about the tradition of tying and wearing a turban
Mona

Ravi Dhillon of Dhillon Brothers is back with a single titled Pagg. A song that was born out of personal experience, Ravi is proud of it and promises to give a new single every alternate month. Here's the Punjabi singer sharing his journey…

Heart of the matter

I belong to Patrali, tehsil Kurali. Once we had Akhand path at home and they wanted Sardar boys to take the sawari; but most of the boys present were clean shaven. Pag, a symbol of Sikh identity is fast losing its appeal to youngsters, I shared my thoughts with writer Satnam Singh Mattu on Facebook and Pagg was born. I wanted to do something different from all the songs being played on channels 24X7. I guess Pagg is one. The song would be on channels soon and I am hoping to connect with audience, especially the youth.

Tryst with music

I and my twin brother, Soni started singing together on stage. Change of circumstances took us away from music, my brother moved to Australia but I continued my journey with music. I was with Idu Sharif for more than a year. Apart from him, Gurdas Maan has influenced my journey. So has Hans Raj Hans. He would encourage us calling, Nikke nikke do khalse. Today I consider Jazzy B to be on the top. I have followed his style of dressing in my track but my style of singing is original.

mona@tribunemail.com

Creating an image

You seldom see so many celebrities from the Punjabi film and music industry share a platform to promote a product. On Monday, from Gurpreet Ghuggi to Pammi Bai to BN Sharma and other four prominent names from the industry got together to launch Image mobiles and gadgets. Designed and developed in India, the hardware will be assembled in Hong Kong.

As for the customer base, they are hoping to create a strong one. Gagandeep Singh Lehri, MD of Landmark Global Entertainment Pvt Ltd says, "There is a tough competition from international firms like Apple, Samsung, LG but there is a scope for growth as well, and we are exploring the same."

In the last few years, Indian firms have started giving tough competition to the international Smartphone brands. "People have developed confidence in the Indian electronic products and if provided at competitive prices, I am sure, we have a chance to capture the market," he adds. Image smartphone of 6.5 inch screen, 1.2 gigahertz, dual core processor and dual operating system of windows and android is competitively priced at Rs16,999. "Also part of the plan is to open 1000 stores across India in the next one year plus several service centres." While at present, the brand only has Punjabi celebrities as its representatives, it gradually will have national faces to on the job. — TNS

pet passion
Special treatment
Poonam Bindra

Sidharth Thapar with Ladda
Endearing bond: Sidharth Thapar with Ladda

The 'Thapars' are a family who are in love with anything that is 'canine' and have seven of the four legged friends living with them as family members. Among the daschunds, a pug and two cocker spaniels 'Ladda' is the boss and favourite who considers herself much above all of them. A three old American black beauty Ladda is a cocker spaniel who knows her mind very well." She interacts like a human being with proper eye contact and it seems she is understanding everything when you try explaining anything to her" says Sidharth Thapar, a BBA student at PCTE Ludhiana. As we see Ladda squatting royally on her cushion we are told that she does not allow any other canine friend of hers to enter the house and they all have to stay outside while she gets quite pampered inside. "Since the day she was made to sit on a separate seat in the airplane when my uncle brought her from Europe she feels that she is special," chorus the family. Ladda seems to follow the routine of her meals with the family right from the quota of almonds in the morning which are disbursed by the grandmother to all the family members and all the meals too are the same for her. "She sits on the floor and has what ever we have and if some family member gets up she will promptly sit on his chair," quips Sidharath.

He seems to the one spoiling her no end for she only eats if she is hand fed by him!! And no dry 'roti' for her as it has to be properly dipped in dal for her majesty to take. According to other family members Ladda is very diplomatic for she first tries to scare strangers by barking but if they don't get frightened she immediately gets friendly. Very fond of being groomed this intelligent cocker spaniel enjoys a hearty bath and the daily routine of being combed. Responding to the commands of 'hello' and others aptly Ladda seems to be understanding quite clearly whenever we are talking of her. She knows the rules of toilet training very well, yet Sidharath narrates an interesting incident. "When we had gone to Chandigarh for a dog show she came face to face with a big rottweiler, she got so scared that she immediately jumped into my lap and eased herself!!" As we leaves she even escorts us to the entrance and looks on condescendingly at the other doggies outside. Interestingly two of them are her children only but Ladda has to remain supreme.

Loud & clear

Jahan Geet, a student of class X1 in Carmel Convent School, Chandigarh is the youngest female dhol player of India. Besides being good in studies, she is equally proficient in drum beating. She has performed in various cultural programmes. She began by performing at the school level and has also participated in international programmes like Kapurthala International Heritage Festival.

Her recent achievement is performing for the reality show, Entertainment Ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega that is expected to be telecasted in May. To promote Punjabi culture, she has traveled across India. Her performances have also been telecast on several other channels. She has also been acknowledged and recognized as first female drummer of India by Tom Tom Magazine published in the USA. She has recently been awarded a Certificate the Independence Day. — TNS

star track
Abhi-Ash ‘touched’ by anniversary wishes

Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai, who celebrated their seventh wedding anniversary on Sunday, have thanked their friends, family and fans for leaving them "truly touched" with their wishes.

"Thank you all so very much for all the anniversary wishes. Truly touched. Big love, Aishwarya and Abhishek," the junior Bachchan posted on Twitter. Together, the actors have a daughter Aaradhya. — IANS

After 2 States, kids aren’t scared of me: Arjun Kapoor

Arjun Kapoor says children were scared of him after his first two releases —Ishaqzaade and Gunday—but he is now glad that 2 States has changed things for him.

The actor played raw, rustic and action-oriented avatars in his first two movies, but in 2 States, Arjun plays a smart, suave, cultured and lovable young man.

"The best thing is that kids are not scared of me any more. After my previous films, kids got scared upon seeing me," the 28-year-old said.

"One kid saw me once and started saying Bala, Bala (name of Arjun's character in Gunday and later, he started to cry. No kid is crying now and they are ready to take photographs with me," he added.

Meanwhile, 2 States has been readily accepted by the audiences. However, the reviews aren't unanimous among critics.

Arjun is nonchalant about it as he feels that everyone has a right to an opinion, and the box office collections so far point at good results.

"We make a film for a very big diaspora of audience, so everyone has a right to opinion. You are spending money, so you can have an opinion, but eventually you make a film for the majority and not minority. I think box office collections are majority whether they (critics) like it or not," Arjun said.

"You have to balance the pros and cons of the critical reviews and audience interactions. It is too early to suggest where the film is heading in terms of numbers but as far as I am concerned, I have never got such a good response for any of my previous films," he added.— IANS

Travolta moments at IIFA

America is all set to witness the unique convergence of Hollywood and Indian Cinema, as IIFA (International Indian Film Academy) rolls out its Green Carpet in Tampa Bay. The Award winning actor John Travolta is set to make an appearance at India's biggest celebration of cinema, the 15th Videocon D2H IIFA Weekend and Tata Motors IIFA Awards later this month. The actor will also receive a special honour at the awards ceremony, being the 'Most Popular All time International star in India'.

The superstar's presence at IIFA is symbolic to the coming together of the two distinctive film industries. Travolta will grace the extravaganza extending his support and appreciation of the Indian Film Industry and its spectacular influence world over. An iconic name in Hollywood, John Travolta has seen staggering success as an actor, singer and dancer. Travolta has starred in numerous eponymous blockbusters, including Saturday Night Fever, Pulp Fiction, Grease, Swordfish, Face Off, Broken Arrow and Ladder 49. The multitalented star has been nominated for the Academy Award twice and nominated for 7 Golden Globes. He went on to win 2 Golden Globes including one for his performance in the critically acclaimed film Get Shorty.

The 15th IIFA Weekend & Awards will be celebrated in Tampa Bay, Florida from the April 23-26. This will be IIFA's debut in the United States.

Tiger gives Chetan Bhagat a complex?

Young actor Tiger Shroff, a fitness freak, has perhaps left author Chetan Bhagat with a complex.

The duo caught up during a gym session recently, and Bhagat took to Twitter to share a photograph from there itself.

He captioned it: "Do NOT work out next to this guy, he will only give you a complex! Tiger Shroff."

"Sometimes when I work out next to beefy guys in the gym flexing their muscles, I secretly wish I could show them my mark sheets," added Bhagat, who is getting compliments galore for the movie adaptation of his bestseller 2 States: The Story Of My Marriage.

Tiger, son of Jackie Shroff, will make his debut with Heropanti.

Budgets high for superhero films: Vivek Oberoi

Indulging in superhero films is not a cake walk, says Vivek Oberoi and adds that inflated budgets restrict the endeavour of filmmakers.

The 37-year-old had his stint with superhero film Krrish 3, in which he played a villain opposite Hrithik Roshan in the title role. The successful franchise of Koi...Mil Gaya and Krrish was directed and produced by Rakesh Roshan.

Talking about the few superhero films in filmdom, Vivek said, "The budgets of superhero films are extremely high. The subject should also be interesting and to back such a huge project, it takes a lot of effort. In India, we have our own mythological heroes, but it is not easy to make a superhero film."

He appreciates senior Roshan for his guts to make such films in Bollywood.

"Hats off to Rakesh Roshan, who has the guts to make superhero films. The way he has made Krrish franchise a successful one, it's certainly not an easy task," he said. — IANS

Mila shows baby bump

Actress Mila Kunis, who is reportedly expecting a child with fiancé Ashton Kutcher, was seen displaying a growing tummy.

Ashton and Kunis have remained silent on rumours that they are expecting their first child together, but the couple was spotted grabbing breakfast in Slidell, Louisiana, with the actor's sister Tausha Kutcher.

In the shots, Ashton was seen in a trucker cap, white V-neck T-shirt, and blue jeans. Kunis donned a stripy grey jumper as she pinned her brunette locks into a loose ponytail. — IANS

Looking for tenants

Filmmaker Steven Spielberg has put his Malibu mansion up for rent.

According to real-estate blog Curbed, the 67-year-old and his wife Kate Capshaw are asking $125,000 a month as rent for his ocean pad.

The mansion looks out onto a beach front and includes a massage room, a library, a spacious pool, and a splendid screening room. — IANS

More than Friends

Actress Courteney Cox and musician-boyfriend Johnny McDaid reportedly don't have plans to marry soon.

The two, who were introduced by singer Ed Sheeran, recently moved in together in Malibu, California.

The former Friends star called off her 11 years of marriage from husband and actor David Arquette in 2010 but the divorce took place only last year.

Now the actress is quite serious about Mcdaid but isn't thinking about remarrying yet. "She is just being in love," said a source.

McDaid will be accompanying Cox to Tribeca Film Festival in New York on April 24, where her directorial debut, Just Before I Go will be screened for the first time.

"His support means so much to her," said another source.

Asked if the pair will marry, their mutual friend and singer Sheeran said: "I wouldn't be surprised, but it's still early days. They certainly enjoy each other's company and feel very comfortable with each other." — IANS

Uma calls off wedding

Hollywood actress Uma Thurman has reportedly called off her engagement to Arki Busson, with whom she has a daughter. The distance between New York-based Thurman and London-based Busson has taken its toll.

Thurman, 43, started dating the multi-millionaire Busson, 51, who earlier dated supermodel Elle Macpherson in 2007.

However, in 2009 she returned an eight-carat diamond engagement ring a year after he proposed.

The pair worked through their differences and in 2011 were back together with Busson proposing again in 2012.

Thurman got pregnant with their daughter, Rosalind Arusha Arkadina Altalune Florence Thurman-Busson, who she gave birth to in July 2012. Thurman is no longer wearing her engagement ring.

"Uma and Arki were due to attend a gala gettogether on April 8, but Uma showed up without her engagement ring or her fiancé," the source said.

"Arki was scheduled to attend and it seemed clear there was only one reason why he didn't show - because he and Uma are no longer an item." Thurman has two children with actor Ethan Hawke, Maya Ray, 13, and Levon, 10. Busson also has two children with Macpherson, Arpad Flynn Alexander, 14, and Aurelius Cy Andrea, nine.

Busson's spokesman was unavailable for comment, while a spokesman for Thurman declined to comment. — PTI

Dia stands corrected

Dia Mirza has rubbished rumours that she has signed on the dotted line for a Kannada film.

"I'm curious to know who are and how have the makers of a south film made assumptions that I am doing a film with them? False news," the actor-producer posted in a tweet on Monday.

There was news that film producer Suresh Babu had confirmed that Dia has given her consent for a Kannada movie titled Bham Bham Bholenath.

chatter box
Working on accent

Sanjeeda Sheikh
Total commitment: Sanjeeda Sheikh

If you thought only Bollywood actors took time off to prepare for their roles, you are highly mistaken. Television celebrities are no less on commitment. Sanjeeda Sheikh, who is returning on television after a long time, with Star Plus' Ek Hasina Thi produced by Cinevistaas, is going the extra mile for her character Durga in the show. Sanjeeda, who is playing the role of a Bengali girl for the first time, wanted every bit of her character to look real and perfect. To the extent that she is even taking lessons to master the language to attain the perfect accent and diction right.

"I wanted to prepare well for the role especially when I know that the language has a particular accent. Currently I am undergoing training as you will see me using a lot of Bengali words and I'm trying to make it sound as real as it can get. It's interesting to learn a new language after so many years and I'm thoroughly enjoying the experience." says Sanjeeda. Well, we hope you get the accent right girl, because as far as looks are concerned you surely are a pleasure to watch!

Dolls & drama

Sony Entertainment Television's saas-bahu saga show Ekk Nayi Pehchaan is gaining popularity due to its unique yet simple storyline. The makers are leaving no stone unturned to give its viewers some high level of entertainment and drama. In an upcoming episode the audience will see the marriage of Diya's doll. The entire Modi family will participate in the ceremony and dance together, leaving their differences behind. The entertainment level will reach its peak when Sakshi-Karan will be seen performing a special dance on the Bollywood track Nagdaa Sang Dhol Baje.

It's going to be a special treat for all its viewers.

To know more tune in to Ekk Nayi Pehchaan, Monday to Thursday at 8.30pm only on Sony Entertainment Television.

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Not much out of the ordinary is likely to transpire today. Do not overload yourself with work. Working women: control your temper. A relaxed night lies ahead. Tarot message: Boost your confidence with positive thinking. Lucky colour: Blue. Magic number: 38.

TAURUS: There are too many problems to cope with at home. Partners will not understand much. Business conferences and organisational meetings can go off smoothly under your direction. Tarot message: Avoid a situation that can turn nasty. Lucky colour: Mauve. Magic number: 59.

GEMINI: Have an optimistic outlook regarding a personal issue. You'll prefer not to share your thoughts or ideas with people from your past, as it will be of no value. Tarot message: Results are guaranteed if you stick to arrangements. Lucky colour: Navy-blue. Magic number: 47.

CANCER: Work-wise you will be doing fine. Love life is controversial. Give more time to domestic duties. Sportsmen perform well. Do not suppress your feelings. Tarot message: Do not let anyone take advantage of you. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 53.

LEO: You must try harder at work. Avoid speculation. It is a hectic day for business activities. Travel plans need a double check. Fantasy and romance can play a large part in your actions today. Tarot message: Do not cover up your own mistakes. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 30.

VIRGO: There will be new projects to deal with. Friends will be coming up with useful ideas. Mothers: take proper care of your child. Social activities will get your thought process active. Tarot message: Don't get embroiled in long-term ventures. Lucky colour: Sky-blue. Magic number: 31.

LIBRA: Nothing will go wrong today. Home and family life will run smoothly. You will get more time to do what you want. Evening favours a social get-together. Tarot message: Avoid gossip sessions. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 36.

SCORPIO: Women will be bored with their daily routine. Love life will be controversial. Your health can stand in the way of travel plans. If you are heading overseas, ensure that your health is up to the mark. Tarot message: Try to get your work in order Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 61.

SAGITTARIUS: Avoid tiffs and angry words in the heat of the moment. Focus on hobbies and personal matters. Students: a day when you will be confused about your career. Tarot message: Be articulate. Lucky colour: Silver. Magic number: 32.

CAPRICORN: Overseas inquiries for business will be encouraging. Investments made in new ventures are sure to bring good dividends. A day for daydreaming today. Tarot message: Focus on professional changes. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 29.

AQUARIUS: Do not sign new arrangements. Use your sympathy more than your ambition for best results. A strong independent streak will push you to get things done your way. Tarot message: Arrogance will not be rewarded. Lucky colour: Green. Magic number: 43.

PISCES: The wheels of progress and action are likely to come to a halt today. The vibes now call for reflection and re-evaluation. Contracts and agreements can stall. Tarot message: Be creative to retain grip over your business. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 65.

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is April 22...

On the career front, you will be going against the odds. This will not be a good year to implement ambitious plans or expand your business. It will be vital for you to limit your expenditure and prioritise your spending. 2014 will be a year of profound and exciting transformations. Take this opportunity to go after a high-profile job that involves an element of glamour. Your fortune might be affected adversely this year.

Positive colours: Dark-blue, Dark-grey.

Select days: Saturday.

Favourable numbers: 2, 4, 8.

Gems recommended: Gomed, Cats Eye, Tiger Stone.

Charity on birthday: Donate saffron-coloured edible items or dress to the needy or at any religious place today.

You share your birthday with Chetan Bhagat (April 22, 1974), who is the author of four novels. Many of the issues raised by Chetan's columns have been discussed in Parliament. A good Jupiter will help him garner more fame in future.





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