Age is just a number…
An elderly man marrying a very young girl has forever been looked at with raised eyebrows. However, those involved find reasons enough to be together…

Jasmine Singh

They are grinning, smiling, laughing and making all kinds of jokes about Congress veteran Digvijay Singh, 67-year-old, who recently revealed that he was in a 'relationship' with a television anchor Amrita Rai, 43, and intended to 'formalise' it after her divorce came through. It certainly doesn't come as a shock, for this is not the first case of a May-December couple!

Bollywood definitely has more than a handful of such examples with Digvijay filling the recent slot from the politicians! As we smile looking at Saira Banu and Dilip-Kumar, we also wonder how the couple managed to bridge the 22-year age gap.

Heart wise

Dilip Kumar and Saira Banu
Dilip Kumar and Saira Banu

Sanjay Dutt surprised everyone by marrying a former B-grade actress Manyataa! The age difference between them is 19 years. A sixteen-year-old Dimple Kapadia decided to marry the heart-throb of the nation Rajesh Khanna who was 34 years old then. Saif Ali Khan was only 21 at the time of his marriage with Amrita Singh, who was 33 at that time. The marriage went steady for 13 years before the couple called it quits.

Says actor Sonu Sood, "There are two different ways of looking at it. Yes money and power can entice women, but a man falling for a woman much younger than him is a case of pure attraction. Sadly, this attraction doesn't last always. However, there are cases where a huge gap, like that between Dilip Kumar and Saira Banu, has proved that it is ultimately love that carries the relationship through thick and thin."

Sanjay Dutt with Manyataa
Sanjay Dutt with Manyataa

Who can miss the hot affair between Kabir Bedi and Parveen (not to be confused with Parveen Babi)! She is apparently Kabir Bedi's daughter Pooja’s age, but that does not deter him from being a romantic. In fact, Kabir Bedi in an interview later said love and attraction have nothing to do with age

"See it is all about the heart, when it beats for someone it just does. Who thinks about age gap then," adds Arjit Singh, assistant director from Jalandhar currently based in Mumbai. "It is very normal to see older men fall for younger women in the industry all the time; I think men are attracted to the vibrancy of a younger woman while some women like to date and eventually marry a man older to them."

It's natural

Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta Jones
Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta Jones

There are many more well-known May- December couples, such as Tony Curtis (82) and Jill Vandenburg (40), Des O'Connor (75) and Jodie (38), Michael Douglas (63) and Catherine Zeta Jones (38) or the late Anna Nicole Smith who married an ailing 89-year-old oil tycoon when she was only 26! Indeed, records reveal that most men marry younger women. "Women choose men who offer resources and stability, and an older man, especially one who is successful, comes with experience, money and stability. A woman feels secure with such men for they can offer better understanding than someone of the same age," shares Sheeba Shipra, TV actress. Shipra says she is sure attracted to older men. "They ooze some kind of maturity, which would be missing in a man of my own age. On the other hand, I think I would always marry someone my age or only 1-2 years elder to me. At least, we will have the same enthusiasm; an older man might just say he doesn't want to go on an adventure tour after a while. No, I don't want that," she chuckles.

Old treat

Some people feel that an age difference of 7-15 can make for a wonderful relation because then it wouldn't be only the heart that is involved, but the sensibility as well. Sapna Meharkoti, a physician from Moga, married a Delhi-based doctor 14 years elder to her. "We were in the same college," she laughs on the term May-December given to them. "Mostly men reach maturity after 30 or let's say after 35, and at this age a man is ready for commitment; he knows what he wants and he is willing to put in all in a relationship, which can be missing with younger men." Younger women would generally be attracted to a man's achievements; emotional and economic stability for sure."

Long lasting

All said and done, there is no sure-shot guarantee of a successful relationship. Neha Kapur Gill, an Amritsar-based psychologist agrees that older men only get attracted to beauty, which is not often the case with a woman who marries a man much older to him. "One she is looking for financial stability and two, she wants a strong emotional anchor. At the same time, you cannot rule out the possibility of love. At the end of the day, if irrespective of the age both partners are willing to make it work, age really wouldn't matter."

Name game
Such couples are referred to as May-December due to the age difference involved. Here one person is in the spring of life (May) while the other is in the winter December).

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Figuratively speaking
The Elephanta caves, the Arabian sea and sea rocks—it's Mumbai written all over the art gallery of Punjab Kala Bhawan, as Mumbai-based artists showcase their works
Ashima Batish

When the common factor in the group of artists is their hometown, you can join the dots further to pick up a few more similarities. Kalavishakar group of Mumbai comes to Chandigarh and brings along paintings inspired from Elephanta Caves, Arabian Sea, sea rocks… Motley of paintings adorns the walls of Punjab Kala Bhawan. There are works in abstract, figurative, semi-figurative, landscape, water colours, oil, acrylic, a variety that you come across only in group shows.

Beginning with the Sanjay R Patkar's works inspired by the art of Elephanta Caves, they are done in nude and pastel shades. The aboriginal dot paintings are a proof of hard work he has put in. He chose the unusual medium to do justice to a popular subject that has always been a favourite of artists. "This is the only way I could present a common subject with a difference."

He has painted Ganesha, Goddess Parvati and other Gods of the Hindu mythology using the same technique. Another artist, Nilesh D Kadam's work is a portrayal of the different yoga aasans. "I believe in making drawing room art, something that people won't mind decorating their house with." Buddha, as always, proves to be a favourite subject. If Sanjay painted a version of Buddha in brown, Rahul Rangrao Howal created a contrast in his paintings using bright green, yellow, brown and white. His works are one of the best at the exhibition, certainly worth spending for.

Colours are found in abundance in the works of Dipti Nilesh Nikam's work on Tribal art. "Usually the art form is done in monochrome. But I prefer to use as many colours to render the old form art a contemporary touch," says Dipti, an arts teacher by profession. But the forms and contours of cart, cows, men, women, birds, twigs, trees… remain unaltered. Though a different genre altogether, colours play a very important role in works of Priya M Bose, who uses one each to depict a stage in a woman life, for example, red symbolises her youth and green, depicts her fertility. As a tribute to Mumbai, Sachin Chandrakant Patil has painted sea rocks but in the abstract form. The play of colours is interesting, so are the forms. "Mumbai has a lot to offer to artists, this is just one of the subjects," Sachin says as he admires the work of a fellow artist, Rupesh Janrdan Patil, who has painted a sea shore.

On till May 5

No chickening out
Masterchef Pankaj Bhadouria offers different versions of chicken curry in her latest book Chicken From My Kitchen
Manpriya Singh

The regions as varied and as divergent as Kashmir to Kerala come together in her book where a chicken plays the protagonist. Masterchef Pankaj Bhadouria spared no region while traveling across the country to gather recipes on chicken. "I come from a family of chicken lovers. Each time, chicken has to be eaten and has to be eaten differently…Even otherwise, chicken and fish are popular food choices now as increasing number of people are avoiding red meats," while at Barbeque Nation, she responds to initial and rather obvious query on why only chicken about her latest book titled Chicken From My Kitchen.

The cook book puts together 54 recipes from across the country. "It took me two years to come up with this book. It even includes some of my own recipes." For instance the chicken no butter masala, which borrows only the flavour of the famous dish. "We were invited to Cambridge University where I had demonstrated a healthier version of our famous butter chicken. Chicken no butter masala doesn't compromise on taste while drastically cuts down the guilty calories that have always accompanied the popular dish."

Each region of the country has dealt with the same ingredient in a different and sometimes typical way. While it may be hard to pick and choose, but it wasn't difficult listing out the several ways in which a chicken can be brought on the table.

"In Kerala they have chicken moily in which it is cooked in coconut gravy. Then there are also Mangolorean chicken rolls…Then of course chicken has been made popular by the famous butter chicken in North and the chicken tikkas." She adds, "Asking me to pick the favourite recipe would be like choosing a finger from my own hand."

On health ground

While it's a third attempt in cook books, it is only one of the series that is yet to come. "My next project is on healthier cooking. The perception of healthy foods is limited to soups and salads. Sorry to say but we Indians cannot survive on just soups and salads. My next offering will put together some of our famous Indian foods but sans the calories," she departs on a promising note.

manpriya@tribunemail.com

A time to invest

Akshaya Tritiya is a special occasion that usually happens in the month of late April to early May on the third (tithi) of bright half of lunar month of Vaishakha according to the traditional Hindu calendar. Derived from the Sanskrit word Akshaya, which means never diminishing, imperishable, and eternal, the day brings in good luck.

It's also believed that sacred deeds performed on this day never go unnoticed and that starting a new venture or investing in valuables like gold and diamonds doesn't end without fruitful rewards. The auspicious muhurath for pooja commences at 5. 43 and ends at 12.03 pm on May 2. This will be good period for purchase of property, gold, vehicles, household items, electronic gadgets and anything which is required for long term. Marriage or engagements solemnised on this day prove everlasting.

Madan Gupta Spatu, astrologer

STAR TRACK
Ameesha casts her spell

Ameesha Patel, who will be next seen in Desi Magic, reveals her beauty regime...

Face value

Ameesha Patel
make-up mantra: Ameesha Patel

I keep my face make-up free when I'm not shooting. I never sleep with make-up on. I cleanse, tone and moisturize. Clarins, Sisley and Guerlain are great products. Coconut water is also a great hydrator in the summer or otherwise. Stay away coffee and tea unless it's green tea. It is filled with antioxidants and super good for you.

Hair and how

My hair and skin go through too much damage with constant travelling and standing under harsh lights for 4-15 hours while shooting, so extra care is needed. I have deep conditioning treatments at salons. Kerastase treatments are great. Also a good conditioner is important to use after washing hair. I use raw beaten eggs on my hair. The most effective and cheap protein treatment and you can do it at home.

Work it out

Exercise is an awesome cleanser and it detoxes your entire body. It is a must for every mind and body. I like to meditate and do yoga other than working out regularly. I drink plenty of water and have fruits only till 12 noon. Regular manicure pedicures are also important for nail hygiene and you must have clean teeth.

Favourite few

The best face wash till date is still Neutrogena deep clean. Cost effective, but it is so good. I have been using it since I was a teenager. Try it sometime, it works. Sisley is another skincare line I like. Clarins is always amazing as their products are water based and awesome for sensitive skin.

Tiger celebrates World Dance Day with fans

Yesterday Tiger Shroff and Kriti Sanon celebrated World Dance Day with some of their fans in Mumbai and director Sabbir Khan. Tiger Shroff with his debut itself has set a mark with his action and dance moves. The actor who has learnt dancing since his childhood taught some dance moves to the fans who were selected through a contest. After teaching them a few dance moves it was not enough and Tiger was requested to do some solo dance moves which amazed everyone. Tiger even took his shirt off and showed off his ripped body. After a few question the actor was asked to show off his sleek and chiseled body which he did and again danced on his song Whistle Baja which was greeted by applaud and hoots. Heropanti directed by Sabir Khan and produced by Sajid Khan is set to release on May 23.

Work before pleasure

Kangna Ranaut was going to host a big bash at her place because Revolver Rani has got a good response but she has to postpone because she has to attend the Melbourne Film Festival for the screening of Queen.

Fun on stage

Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone were at an event together earlier this week to collect some awards. They were comfortable with each other and even did an impromptu jig to Badtameez Dil from Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani.

Congratulations and celebrations

Dia Mirza and her beau Sahil Sangha were in Tampa Bay, Florida for the IIFA ceremony and they both got engaged to each other in New York City. It is official now. Many congratulations to the couple!

Kajol on TV show

Kajol is making her comeback to showbiz with a television show. Buzz is that it might be the desi adaptation of a Danish drama which has a hit American remake called The Killing.

Priyanka’s support system

Priyanka Chopra says that she is grateful to rapper Nick Cannon for supporting her at the video launch of her latest single I Can't Make You Love Me. The American rapper is a good friend of PC.

Love for food

The first look of Habib Faisal's Dawaat-e-Ishq looks quite delectable. The lead pair of the film, Aditya Roy Kapoor and Parineeti Chopra, is seen trying out jalebis and at the background there is a splash of colours. Going by the first look, the film promises to be a love story with food playing an intrinsic part in the story line. While Parineeti is set to play a Hyderabadi girl, Aditya will be seen playing a chef in the film. The film will also star Karan Wahi and Anupam Kher and the music of the film is composed by Sajid-Wajid. Will the fresh pairing of Aditya Roy Kapoor and Parineeti Chopra work? Guess we will have to wait till September 5 to know as that's when the film releases.

Of Sunny & sex

Bollywood sure knows how to cash in on the USP of the former adult star Sunny Leone. After the success of Ragini MMS 2, Sunny Leone is all set to star in a sex comedy titled Mastizaade. The actor's character will be called Laila Lele in the film.

New Releases
Purani Jeans

Producer: Manju Lulla
Director: Tanushai Chattrji Bassu

A still from Purani Jeans
A still from Purani Jeans

Produced by Manju Lulla of Eros International and Next Gen films, Purani Jeans has been directed by award-winning ad filmmaker Tanushri Chattrji Bassu. It stars Tanuj Virani, Aditya Seal and Izabelle Leite in the lead roles.

The veteran actress Rati Agnihotri shares screen space with her son Tanuj Virani for the first time. Purani Jeans is a fun-filled, coming-of-age story that will bring to the silver screen an intense journey that depicts the agony and ecstasy of youth. Actor and model Aditya Seal, who made a debut in Ek Chhoti Si Love Story, plays an important role in this youth-oriented movie. Catch Purani Jeans in theatres from today.

Kya Dilli Kya Lahore

Producer: Karan Arora
Director: Vijay Raaz

Actor Vijay Raaz's directorial debut is all set to hit the silver screens this Friday. Apart from Vijay Raaz, the film's cast includes Manu Rishi, Raj Zutshi and Vishwajeet Pradhan.

Kya Dilli Kya Lahore is a light hearted satire that tells a story of two characters forced into a conflict with each other. Set in 1948, the film is a witty take on the Indo-Pak rivalry.

The Amazing Spiderman 2

Producer: Avi Arad, Matt Tolmach
Director: Marc Webb

Superhero Andrew Garfield starrer The Amazing Spiderman 2 is the summer's most anticipated superhero flick. The movie also releases in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu. It stars Emma Stone, Jamie Foxx and Dane He Haan.

Actor Vivek Oberoi has dubbed for the villain Max Dillon aka Electro in the Hindi version of the movie.

— Dharam Pal

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: You will be focused and alert. Working with colleagues and gaining their support will lead to faster progress on assignments. Don't make impulsive decisions regarding your finances. Tarot message: Don't accept situations you dislike. Lucky colour: Blue. Magic number: 63.

TAURUS: You're not undecided; just trying to understand what others around you are thinking so that you can plan ahead. Avoid new debt or excess spending. Loved ones will not fully understand your daily needs. Tarot message: Take thing one at a time. Lucky colour: Sea-green. Magic number: 48.

GEMINI: Do not overlook a chance meeting that can lead to a future romance. Kick old habits and adopt a healthier lifestyle with more time for meditation. A brief business-cum-pleasure trip is just on the cards. Tarot message: Polish your public relation skills. Lucky colour: Mauve. Magic number: 43.

CANCER: You are likely to find an ideal partner. Be bold to speak out what is on your mind. Delays can be expected today. Relax; things will clear up and a happy surprise awaits you. Tarot message: Beware of depleting your energy or resources on others. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 38.

LEO: You will be able to enjoy interaction with people who share your views and thoughts. Your ability to communicate effectively will help you to enhance your reputation. Tarot message: Arrogance will not be rewarded. Lucky colour: Chocolate-brown. Magic number: 55.

VIRGO: You find ways to express your creativity and emotions. Your personal interests are likely to be stagnant. This should be a pleasantly sociable day. Tarot message: At work a setback will be followed by a rapid advance, so don't worry. Lucky colour: Burgundy. Magic number: 49.

LIBRA: Today a long cherished dream will come true. A date with your lover will at last come up. Do not try any shortcuts as they can misfire. Be understanding and keep the likes and dislikes of your mate in mind. Tarot message: Do not refuse offers without seeking advice. Lucky colour: Green. Magic number: 29.

SCORPIO: Youngsters should be capable of entertaining themselves and they will be happiest if left to their own pleasures. Don't be unnerved by anything. Tarot message: A dissatisfactory phase will need gentle handling. Lucky colour: Sky-blue. Magic number: 44.

SAGITTARIUS: A new business venture is just on the cards. Minor jealousies are best addressed in the moment. You can plan creative distractions or group events today. Tarot message: Feel free to change your mind. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 37.

CAPRICORN: A close friend needs delicate advice concerning strained relationships or unexpected emotional triangles. Old memories can now provide valuable social wisdom. Tarot message: If you insist on leading a fast life, you will aggravate your problems. Lucky colour: Maroon. Magic number: 54.

AQUARIUS: This is a strong time for shared enjoyment with family. Tonight review financial records for forgotten payments. Do watch for ongoing romantic attractions. Tarot message: Trust your heart and intuition rather than confusing yourself. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 61.

PISCES: Expect loved ones to propose new forms of entertainment or ask for greater involvement in your daily life. This is an excellent time to develop unique hobbies. Tarot message: Do not get tied down by any promises. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 46.

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is May 2...

This is a lucky year where you'll make useful acquaintances and be able to learn something new. End of the year is favourable for you. Till then, you will have to face ups and downs of fate. Remain alert while socializing. Financial status will improve and you will clear all your debts. If you are serious in love life, 2014 will favour you. However, the second half of the year may prove a little difficult.

Positive colours: White, Pink, Orange and Cream.

Select days: Sunday, Monday.

Favourable numbers: 1, 4, 2, 7.

Gems recommended: Pearl, Moonstone.

Charity on birthday: Donate white sweets or fruits to the needy or at any religious place today.

You share your birthday with Kay Panabaker (May 2, 1990), who is a famous actress. Her actual name is Stephanie Kay Panabaker. She started her career with guest roles in several television dramas and soap operas.





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