The dirty picture 
The casting couch has been a harsh reality associated with the glam world for long. It is now spreading its tentacles in Punjabi cinema as well
Jasmine Singh

Remember Inder Kumar from Akshay Kumar's movie Khiladiyon Ka Khiladi, where he played his younger brother? The Bollywood actor has been arrested by the Mumbai police on Friday (April 25) after a 22-year-old woman claimed that he had been raping her under the pretext of getting her roles in films. The woman, who is a model, alleged in her statement to the Versova police that Inder Kumar had convinced her that he would get her main lead roles and asked her to stay with him at his flat in Andheri West.

This doesn't come as a shock though, since the casting couch is like an open and shut case in Bollywood. What actually might startle is the fact that this virus has spread in Punjabi film industry as well! Recently, famous Punjabi folk singer Nachattar Gill and three of his aides were booked for allegedly raping a model on the pretext of arranging 'good assignments' for her.

For an industry that got on track only recently, this comes as a startling revelation. While insiders in this industry have been noticing casting couch one time too many, others take the politically correct way out.

Wrong signals

Casting couch is an omnipresent fact in Bollywood; in fact the entertainment industry has learnt to live with it. In Pollywood it is a new thing, however, actress Surveen Chawla, who is known for her headstrong, no-nonsense nature has faced such instances once or twice. "It wasn't rosy for me when I started out - indecent proposals and crossing the line. But in the end it totally depends on the person in question. I would never sympathise with the girls who say they fall prey to the casting couch since they always have a choice to say no and kick the person."

Surveen means no-nonsense when she is on the sets. "I draw a line; something that I don't want is conveyed across nicely," she says adding that people do send wrong signals. "It's how you take them."

The fumes are getting stronger; people working in Punjabi films have raised fingers on celebrated directors, comedians, actors and mostly producers! Gurpreet Kaur, was offered to play the lead actresses friend in a film, a small role that she agreed to. While on the sets I faced an uncomfortable situation when the assistant producer tried to get too cosy with me. I could have walked away from the shoot, but I didn't, they hadn't paid me for my role, so I stayed on," she says adding, "I bet many women in the Punjabi film industry have a similar story to share."

Money matters

Since the reach of Punjabi films is getting wider, it is attracting all kinds of people who look for easy bucks and fame. Says actress Sonia Mann of Haani fame, "I have heard this thing about casting couch and I must say it is true. There are some producers who are making films to either please their girlfriends or for the casting couch." Sonia, however, blames girls or boys who fall prey to such indecent proposals. "These are the ones who are looking for quick money and fame. Pollywood is giving precedence to other things than the acting talent…" she leaves her statement unfinished.

Anuj Sachdev, the actor from Punjabi film Haani, also feels that a woman must know where to draw the line. "If an artist goes to the directors' room after 8 pm, it is certainly not to understand the role better!" Anuj feels that Bollywood still allows women to speak out against the casting couch, but in Punjab films, women are not treated properly on the sets.

Preeti Gill (name changed), a model who has worked in many music videos and done a short role in a Punjabi film, fell into the trap many times. "While I was shooting a music video in Jalandhar, a bouncer approached me saying that a known actor had noticed me in a video and he wanted to cast me in a film. I was asked to meet the actor who was on a promotional tour of his upcoming film. I knew where it was heading," she leaves it incomplete.

Messy affair

Rrupaali, producer of the successful film Mr and Mrs 420, feels the casting couch mess is growing with time. "There are women who approach us for a role but in the end we both are very careful about how to go about casting. I am careful if someone is putting undue pressure for someone in particular. We should understand that this is only bringing a bad name to the film-making world. It's better to come through the right channel."

Empty promise

With the increase in the number of films being made every month, the industry is creating ample job opportunities as well. Undeniably, there is always a place for pretty faces on the screen. Shares eminent director Navaniat Singh, who doesn't deny the presence of casting couch, "This is being done by directors or producers who only make loud announcements on the making of films, but actually don't make any. These people lure girls into the casting couch trap." Navaniat sends a message across to all the aspiring models who want to come into Punjabi films, "Only talent can get you work, period." Navaniat also adds in the same breath, "Someone needs to expose these people, only then will everyone in the industry know about them."

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Young voice, strong notes 
Despite being a star singer's son, Navraj Hans has had his fair share of struggle before bagging a song in upcoming Bollywood film Purani Jeans. He shares excerpts from his journey
Jasmine Singh

 Navraj Hans The one thing that Navraj Hans can handle beautifully, other than this his sweetheart Ajit, is criticism. In fact, those not- so-likeable words boost his confidence. "This is something that I have learnt from my father; he has taught us how to handle criticism constructively," says Navraj coming clear with the recent negative things said about his acting in his debut film Marriage Da Garriage.

Navraj is in no hurry to divert from the topic; you can go on telling him about things he should work upon and the humble singer would probably be making mental notes on it! But as of now, he is also in a childlike rush to share a piece of good news. Navraj, the elder son of celebrated Sufi singer Hans Raj Hans, has opened his account in Bollywood by singing a track in the film Purani Jeans — Jind meriye — for Ram Sampat.

Navraj, who gives his family and pretty wife the credit for making him the person he is, enthusiastically talks about this new project.

"Ram Sampat had offered me the song and when he heard my voice, he told me that he cried," says Navraj, humming the track for us. His mellifluous voice gives life to the track. You can't help dropping a compliment. "Thanks, I can handle compliments well," he laughs. With many Punjabi singers vying to sing in Bollywood films, Navraj candidly shares that it is not an easy thing to do.

"Contrary to what people say and think that I have it easy because of my father, they should know I struggled for 5-6 years till finally things started falling in place. Bollywood is a big sea and sailing in it is not easy; nothing but your talent can help you sail," he says.

Navraj has been staying in Mumbai for long now —a place that doesn't care about where you come from or who you are! "I had to work to detach myself from my father's shadow and prove that I was worth giving a shot. Hindi film songs are situational and a voice has to justify it. No matter what, a Punjabi singer has a pronounced accent; getting over that and singing with all clarity is the challenge. All said and done, Punjabi singers now enjoy a special place in Bollywood," he shares.

Navraj balances both singing and acting well, the way he manages his family time. In fact, he is always doubly careful of giving the special ones in his life all the attention they need. "After all they are my shield when I am hit by criticism," he smiles.

Up next is his Punjabi film Punjabiyan Da King. Before we could ask, this singer gets the ball rolling…"I am an actor who will follow the director to the tee. I was totally new to films when I did Marriage Da Garriage; I understand that the film had loopholes but in my second film, I have worked and tried to cover all the loopholes," adds Navraj, who has picked up couple of lessons from his first project. "There are no mistakes, only lessons," he shows the status message on his What's App application! "Isn't it true," he follows the message like God's word!

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Creative call 
Puneet Gupta labels personalisation to be one of the most significant aspects of any invite
Mona

 Puneet Gupta When growing up Puneet Gupta would have a good look at the invitation to make up his mind on how cool or boring the impending event is going to be, only then he would take the call to accompany his parents or not!

Post his course in communication design by NIFT and job in graphic design, he went back to what fascinated him in his childhood - invitation cards. 'Puneet Gupta Invitations' have earned a name for himself in a short span of its establishment. They claim to have designed for the high and mighty from the glamour, political and affluent class.

For a destination wedding in South Africa, he designed Trunk that had a map and metal binoculars that one needed to read the invite. While the top layer had invite, different layers beneath has sweets from six different countries and animal printed scarves for the invite!

"Invite for me is what trailer is to a movie. It showcases the nature of the event how grand or opulent it's going to be," says Puneet, in Chandigarh on Saturday to scour for a studio option. "We have many clients from here, in Punjab in general."

An invitation needs a designer stresses Puneet who has done a range right from a balloon that needed to be inflated to read the invite to invitation box in shape of doli in zari and brocade.

And it needn't be hugely expensive. He does invitations starting Rs 200 each which he call very nominal. To give an idea on how far can you go, the South Indian destination wedding came at Rs 45,000 each.

It's not you have to be garish; a simple invite will click provided it is personalised believes Puneet.

mona@tribunemail.com

Trends to watch out for

  • Bring a personalised touch with designing a logo or saying your story.
  • Lavender is the Pantone colour of the season so right from your dress, bag, interiors, it's trending in invites too.
  • In embellishments pearls and laces top the chart replacing Swarovski and all the glitter.
  • Go organic, choose green materials like recycled paper or wooden pearl sheets
  • Let everything be rooted in Indian ethnicity, weddings are rooted culture and religion

Look young, healthy and wow
Poonam Bindra

Anti- ageing and weight loss are the two quests by ' fair lady' is looking for in today's day when everybody wants to look their best and is a luxury which surpasses all luxuries. A select group of Ludhiana ladies were briefed on the nuances of modern techniques which help in contouring the figure and reducing the oncoming signs of inevitable 'age' . "why not look good till you can ?" is the mantra of Dr Geetika Mittal Gupta, president of ISAAC (International skin and anti aging Centre ) who along with Ritu Sood the vice president are currently promoting — 'Coolsculpt' which is a unique breakthrough, non invasive procedure that uses cooling technology to noticeably eliminate fat without surgery and promising a two inch loss in one sitting .

This is achieved by A US FDA approved device. While interacting with the audience Geetika further added "At ISAAC we also believe that the hormones are the key to anti aging and if they are replaced at the right level at the right time then not only can we live a healthy life but also various life threatening diseases can be prevented " Herself belonging to the family of Sonalika tractors in Hoshiarpur , Dr Geetika with her team of experts plans to visit the town on a regular basis and educate the ladies with different age groups and then the natural conclusion would be the launching of the ISAAC centre which they claim to be the one stop destination for all beauty, skin and wellness needs while using the latest in modern technology with expert care to give customised beauty and health solutions under one roof.

Nandita Bhaskar the resource person in the town "Keeping in view the high profile quest of the folks of this town to look good I am sure these concepts will be quite a help" So their motto of 'Beauty is fashion" promises to give the town international beauty bytes on their door step.

Punjabi Tadka
Born to sing
Jasmine Singh

Sarthi K His friends call him a livewire, someone who can infuse life into any get-together. Punjabi singer Sarthi K from Nabha, Patiala charms with his peppy, romantic hummable tracks and also with a deep set dimple, which he doesn't need to flash. "I was born with it," he smiles exposing the deep set line. The Challa in Chandigarh fame singer is all set to make a beginning in Punjabi film Yaar Anmulle 2, something that he is excited about. Sarthi is a complete entertainer who has an inborn streak of a good comedy as well. The singer lightens up every moment with his punch lines…

Always a singer…

I can't imagine what I would be doing if not been singing. I would have probably taken up some 9 to 5 job. I am glad destiny made me a singer.

Singer-actor, actor-singer?

My first official track came in 2009 but even before this, I was always a singer. This is my life. Music is what I thrive on. I am an actor by chance; the director wanted someone who could portray what he is in real life on screen. So, I did Yaar Anmulle 2, but I am always a singer first. I have to see how people see me as an actor.

If I were to collaborate…

Gurdas Maan is the only name I can think of. He says something that will always hold value. He is an out-of-this world entertainer.

What's on my ipod?

Gurdas Maan's Challa and my tracks.

Stage is a practice ground…

With so many live shows and other commitments, the only place where I think we get to practice and demonstrate at the same time is a stage show.

The best stage show ever…

In 2011 I did a show in Baddi, a crowd of almost three lakh people came for my show. It was simply amazing. I hadn't seen so many people cheering and hooting for me.

If I were marooned on an island…

I would only take good memories with me and certainly no cell phone.

I owe it to them…

My parents, my family, my guru Rajesh ji, T-series, Davvy Singh and Sachin Ahuja, and my friends these are some names that have helped in making my journey interesting. They have supported me and stood by in thick and thin.

The best moment…

I live every moment to the fullest. One shouldn't forget that after every sad moment god sends a bright one.

stress buster
Peace is within you
Renee Singh

When was it that you can recall just feeling like a child? The simple joys of life hitting you like the sun on your face? This is a supreme condition of inner peace that seems to elude us every moment in today's busy and stressful world.

Most busy and highly productive people operate in the high stress range, somewhere on the descending lines of the stress and productivity curve. Their contribution to productivity is very high but the internal wires begin to short circuit and burn. They need to learn to relax to actually reach a higher productivity level. The only workable strategy for maintaining productivity over the long haul is to learn how to relax. There are literally thousands of ways of doing this but only you are the best judge to see what shuts off your mental dialogue to do better constantly.

The basic fact about us humans is that peace is our inherent nature. The pure joy of playing in the mud or dancing in the rain is innate yet we suppress these simple pleasures due to our own inhibitions. We are bound within our own circle of fear of acceptability. Since we are creatures of a conditioned mind set of society, we allow our inner voice to shut itself and move along with the crowd like mere zombies.

Stress begins to build when we deny our own true nature. And we need to realise that creating our own balance of our inherent nature and the social world is what would keep us happy.

Watch your breath

Does your belly swell on the in breath and relax when you let go of you breath or does your chest rise and fall instead? Does your breath flow in a steady rhythm or is it choppy? Using the chest muscles is tiresome. Many adults can't feel their belly moving. Instead their chest rises and falls while their abdomen remains rigid. This is what happens when you use your chest muscles to expand the lungs rather than the diaphragm muscles. The chest muscles can't inflate the lungs as well as the diaphragm and you take in less oxygen than what your tired brain needs for sane thinking. So you breathe faster to compensate. Heart rate and blood pressure rise and bingo, you are tired, anxious and stressed.

Shifting from stressed chest breathing to relaxed belly breathing. Here is an exercise for breath shifting which you can practice at home with yourself.

''Lie down and place your hands flat on your belly to help you notice what is happening. Take a big breathe and let go with a sigh of relief. This resets your diaphragm. On the next in breath feel or imagine your belly expanding and then feel or imagine it relaxing, as you let go. Pay attention to what you feel. Most people feel that their breathing rate slows down and they feel relaxed and centered.

Build brain power

When you neglect the basics of life such as eating a good meal, taking a brisk walk or spending time in meaningful conversation your brain chemistry suffers. When the brain operates through too few cylinders it's hard to control life or control your thinking. Instead despite your best efforts your thoughts control you.

Pessimists are far more troubled by busy schedules than optimists. They are negative, rigid and moody and constantly obsessing. Work with your thoughts to stop constant obsessive thinking. An overactive brain sometimes saps motivation and will. Daniel Amen the famous psychiatrist has written a wonderful book called ''Change Your Brain Change Your Life'' He tells you about overcoming negativity by engaging in simple behaviors that raise the brain hormone serotonin.

Most of the time we need to do something basic like:

  • Eat a good meal
  • Give someone a hug
  • Take a brisk walk
  • Inhale the fragrance of flowers in the garden
  • Just do what makes you peaceful and relaxed

Eating a well balanced diet keeps your body and brains functioning well. Eating should be a pleasure not a chemistry lesson. Also delicious aromas are potent mood stabilizer.

(Singh is a Chandigarh based psychotherapist)

star track
Bollywood goes to classroom 
Bollywood has learnt many lessons in 2014, more than in any other year and we are not even in June yet. 2 States, Yaariyaan and Queen are among the hits. Here are some of the lessons

The new generation takes over

The new generation of Bollywood comprises Arjun Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Parineeti Chopra, Varun Dhawan, Siddharth Malhotra, Nargis Fakhri, and more and they all hang out with each other and seem to share a good camaraderie, at least as of now.

Music makes the mare go

Salman Khan's Jai Ho did not have any hit popular song unlike his previous movies and for the first time in five years, he had a flop. Also, he cannot keep doing the same thing over and over again. Moreover, movies like Ragini MMS 2 and Yaariyaan worked because of their hit songs like Baby Doll and Sunny Sunny.

All about girl power

Movies that had strong women characters such as Alia Bhatt in Highway, Sunny Leone in Ragini MMS 2 and Kangna Ranaut in Queen have done exceedingly well at the box office and two of them have been critically acclaimed as well.

Content is the king

We have not really had a hundred crore film so far but movies like Hasee Toh Phasee, Queen, Highway, 2 States, Main Tera Hero have got good reviews (mostly) and have been consistent at the box office and made an impact in their own way.

Cricket is not a threat

Movies like Main Tera Hero, Ragini MMS 2, 2 States and Queen released during the T20 World Cup and IPL and their collections have been excellent. So if the content is good and people want to see a movie, they just will and nothing can stop them!

Sangeeta Bijlani to make a comeback

Actress Sangeeta Bijlani is all set to make a comeback with filmmaker Onir's next film named Shab. Sangeeta, who had an immensely forgettable first outing in Bollywood, was last seen in an obscure movie called Jagannath way back in 1997 before she finally bid adieu to the glamour world to get married to former Indian cricketer Mohammed Azharuddin.

Now post her divorce, Sangeeta is reportedly looking at re-building her film career. While Sangeeta was never seen in Bollywood, regular appearances at social dos meant that she never faded away from public consciousness. Even after separating from Azhar, Sangeeta has been often seen at page 3 parties and fashion events.

Reportedly, it is at one such event of fashion designer Anita Dongre that she met filmmaker Onir who happens to be Anita's friend. Both connected well and a few months later, Onir touched base with Sangeeta and offered her a role in his next film. Sangeeta liked the script and gave her nod.

It is believed that Sangeeta plays one of the leads and will portray the role of a well-heeled society diva. The film would be a love story based in South Delhi. Sangeeta's shooting schedule will commence in two months from now.

The unlikely catfight

Anushka Sharma and Raveena Tandon did not get along on the sets of Bombay Velvet, in which they both play jazz singers. Apparently, there is some competitiveness between them even though they have not spent a day shooting together.

B-town’s Mr and Mrs Smith!

Iranian film Cease Fire will be remade in Hindi with Sharman Joshi and Kajal Aggarwal. It will be remade by, Dus Tola director, Ajoy Varma. It is a spy action film like Mr. and Mrs. Smith.

The next big thing

Alia Bhatt is the toast of the season. Sajid Nadiadwala now wants to pair her with Tiger Shroff in a romantic comedy that has a strong emotional element. Way to go! 

Clash of the cultures

The first look of Daawat-e-Ishq is out, in which the cultures of Hyderabad and Lucknow collide. The movie stars Aditya Roy Kapur and Parineeti Chopra and releases on 5 September, 2014.

The IIFA madness

Bollywood actor Hrithik Roshan performs on stage during the fourth and final day of the 15th International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards at the Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida.
Glitz and Glamour: Bollywood actor Hrithik Roshan performs on stage during the fourth and final day of the 15th International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards at the Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. —AFP

From Madhuri Dixit's thumke to Ranveer Singh's high-octane performance -- the 15th International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) awards made the jam-packed audience, at Raymond James stadium, groove with their favourite Bollywood celebrities.

Ranveer, 28, made a dashing entry on the stage on a bike and danced on his hit songs like Ramji Ki Chal Dekho, Dishkiyaaon and Dil Mein Baji Ghanti.

Audience stood up on chairs and matched steps with him and kept asking for more when his performance ended.

Superstar Hrithik Roshan, who performed in the US after a decade, shook his leg on all his hit songs like Ae Mere Dil Tu Gaye Jaa, Main Aisa Kyun Hoon, Bhumroo, It's Magic and Dhoom Machale.

Madhuri went among the crowd to groove with them for a few seconds. Whereas, Priyanka Chopra made a dramatic entry as she was seen standing on a pillar with cable wires. She set the stage on fire with Kab Tak Jaawani Chupayegi Rani, I will Be Alright, Tune Mari Entry and others.

The desi girl also got Hollywood star John Travolta on stage to dance on Tune Mari Entry from her last outing Gunday. Actress Deepika Padukone performed on songs like Kaisi Teri Khud Garzi, Nagada Sang Dhol Baaje and others. She too left everybody in the audience asking for more. IIFA 2014 awards came to an end. — PTI

chatter box
Weather’s a spoilsport

Roop Durgapal Heat and change in weather seems to be taking a toll on the health of many television actresses. While Preetika Rao (Beintehaa) is down with fever, actress Roop Durgapal has been diagnosed with chicken pox and has been advised bed rest by the doctor for the next ten days. She has stopped shooting and will stay indoors for now.

Juju to get inked!

SAB TV's Jeannie (Rubina Dilaik) keeps putting her Juju (Ali Asgar) in a fix in Jeannie Aur Juju. But this time she is thinking of getting him inked, but this initiative will eventually backfire. The upcoming episodes will see how Jeannie would want Juju to get himself tattooed. She will plan to magically tattoo him. This magic will eventually backfire when her magic will go wrong and Juju will incidentally get inked all over his body thereby looking like a tattoo man. Rubina says, "The track is really a hilarious one. We had so fun much and I won't say much because that will spoil all the fun."

Real life hero

TV actor Shashank Sethi was shooting in Madh Island on Tuesday along with Divya Malik for the show, Love Dosti Dua. To their surprise, they found Govinda shooting adjacent to their location. They got pictures clicked with him. Shashank says, "Govinda is one actor whose films we have watched while growing up. We got an opportunity to meet him in person, so we got pictures clicked with him."

A date with comedy

Veteran singer Lata Mangeshkar will soon be seen on popular television show, Comedy Nights With Kapil. When Kapil Sharma invited her, she wasn't sure about what she would do on the show. However, Kapil promised her that she would enjoy a lot. We can't wait to watch the episode!

All about animation

With the commitment to bring the biggest and best of Hollywood to its viewers, Star Movies presents Animation Domination at 1pm from Monday to Friday throughout the month of May. The line-up is set to entertain you with movies like The Adventures of Tintin, Toy Story 3, Ratatouille, Ice age: Continental Drift , Wreck-it Ralph, Wall-E, The Smurfs, The Princess and the Frog and Up! These movies are perfect for spending time this summer during the holidays and in the middle of cricket season.

On a happy note

A still from Kehta Hai Popular TV show Kehta Hai Dil Jee Le Zara will go off air from May 8 onwards. The story will end with Sanchi giving birth to twins. Finally Saanchi's life has a happy ending. The show couldn't garner the TRPs despite having a good star cast.

Together again!

If the latest rumours are anything to go by, TV couple Rashami Desai and Nandish Sandhu have patched up. They recently shot together for an advertisement and they got along well.

Astro Turf
P. Khurrana

ARIES: The card suggests relationship problems. Start worrying about what can go wrong and problems will start to crop up. A temptation to overindulge might not be good for your finances. Tarot message: Don't forsake a new learning opportunity because of pride. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Magic number: 56.

TAURUS: Follow a good routine of exercise and diet to make sure you're keeping up to the mark with health matters. Focus on little things that need to be done. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid delays that come your way. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 27.

GEMINI: This is the perfect time to get into housework. Try not to overdo it. You could have accidents simply because you forget to look before you leap. Be careful with your financial situation. Be logical in your thoughts. Tarot message: Work could pose minor difficulties but don't worry. Lucky colour: Rainbow Pastles. Magic number: 30.

CANCER: Flattery, charm and willingness to be bold will bring success. You should have little trouble gaining from others. New people are moving into your sphere of relationships. Tarot message: Your determination to succeed will pay dividends. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 50.

LEO: Enjoy your dreams. Still, you might be about to meet that someone special. This is a great day for socializing. Do your best and you will be welcomed. Tarot message: Must learn to accept responsibility for self and others. Lucky colour: Silver grey. Magic number: 44.

VIRGO: The card, Ten of Pentacles, promises self-confidence. Opportunities to socialize and mixing with people will benefit you. You have the capability to cope with every situation. Tarot message: Show your interest in meeting new people. Lucky colour: Sea green. Magic number: 35.

LIBRA: Your earning power could kick into high gear, so be on the lookout for money making opportunities. Connection with that special someone is worth pursuing, no matter how difficult it is. Tarot message: Use your instincts to get into the top circle of power. Lucky colour: Deep red. Magic number: 46.

SCORPIO: Avoid getting sidetracked or letting another's bad mood affect you. Take a look at unfinished projects and tasks and enjoy the creative energy that is enhanced. Tarot message: Don't be dismissive of advice from a young family member. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 25.

SAGITTARIUS: Stick to your work because this is not the day to think clear or take decisions. Beware of advertising claims, as you could be easily influenced today. Tarot message: Be articulate to prevent people from making their own conclusions. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 39.

CAPRICORN: An enthusiastic mood is encouraged by your card. Nothing will seem too much. Help out those around you if you can. Your loved ones may not be as enthusiastic about your busy plans as you are. Tarot message: Try to get your work in order. Lucky colour: Sky blue. Magic number: 48.

AQUARIUS: Thoroughness will be your key to success. Studious people may be preparing for an exam. Avoid getting caught in conversations that distract you. Tarot message: Balance in all aspects is recommended, b e positive. Lucky colour: Peacock green. Magic number: 63.

PISCES: Conflict between your private and professional lives can test your abilities. Don't be shy. This could lead to bigger and better things. Financial commitments will be honoured. Tarot message: Emphasise on spiritual needs. Lucky colour: Metallic grey. Magic number: 28

The Year Ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is April 28...

Generally 2014 is going to be good year for romance. Family will be there by your side in whatever you may try your hand at. There is a lot of beneficial air around you this year.

You start your year feeling great and powerful and you've got the energy to back it up. Make sure that you tackle the most important issues head-on, no matter how uncomfortable or difficult they appear initially. If nothing else, you earn respect that way. Once you put your mind into something, you will devote all of your energies in accomplishing your goals. This quality is greatly admired by those close to you. You will work tirelessly in life until you have achieved your desired level of success.

Venus's influence is twice as strong within you. Past investments will yield good benefits after September. Investments in real estate will flourish. Take care of your eyes and back.

Positive colours: Golden, red, brown, cream, white

Selected days: Sunday & Monday

Favourable numbers: 1,4,2,7

Gems recommended: Yellow sapphire & red coral

Charity on birthday: Donate white clothes to needy.

You share your birthday with Samantha Ruth Prabhu (April 28, 1987) who is an actress and model. Born to Malayali and Telugu parents, Samantha was brought up in Chennai and pursued a career in modeling during her late teens.





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