Absolute Aura
Flashing six-pack abs is not everyone's cup of tea. It requires years of dedicated hardwork, something which our jatts from Pollywood have put in abundance
Jasmine Singh

The jatt became a bond; he not only got a pretty 'jatti' by his side but also a lot of cash. Now that things are more or less sorted for the jatt, he has decided to hit the gym, work on his body, get into shape…walking out with those chiselled, defined and tight abs. He has decided on the number, it could vary between six to eight or more (you can never be sure with them). Make way for the jatt going to the gym; our Punjabi actors are going the Bollywood way - some making abs suited to a particular role while some for no reason at all. Who minds Greek God Hrithik Roshan's abs even if they are not used in any film! The actors sweating out in the gym cite reasons and reservations.

Hit machine
Balli Riar

He is apparently the first singer to come up with six-pack abs for his debut music album. Much after the release, his fans still know him for those chiselled abs. Currently, Balli is working on eight-pack abs for his upcoming projects. "An injury kept me out of the gym; so I couldn't work on my body for a while. Now, for my upcoming album, I am getting back into the same form for my fans and of course for myself."

For myself: I have done a dietician and fitness course. I like to work out; it is not because of any role. It requires a lot of working out and strict routine. However, I wouldn't mind working on my physique according to the role in any film.

An advice: I strongly feel that we do have role models in Bollywood, but we need to have such idols in Pollywood as well. Besides, for youngsters who take to drugs, fitness is the best thing.

Charting the course: It is easy to copy Aamir Khan, but following that regimen is tough; I am off carbohydrate diet and everything on my plate is in balanced proportions.

Strict regimen
Nav Bajwa

The actor made his debut with the film Fateh. Those who saw him on screen couldn't miss his six-pack abs. And well, the actor made no effort to hide them either. "My role in the film demanded me to work on my body. It demanded a transformation; it was for the latter half of the movie that I had to work out."

Time taken: I took almost 5-6 months. I would work out every day for two-and-a-half hours in the evening and one hour in the morning. I had to cut down my diet and maintain a strict check on it.

You suggest: Abs are not very healthy for the body, I don't suggest youngsters should make them. Instead of the abs, if you can work towards getting a tighter stomach with tight muscles…that should do the trick.

I am stuck: Even though I made the abs for the role, I haven't shed them off like Aamir Khan did after Ghajini. In fact, maintaining them is a huge task. 

Going strong
Arjan Bajwa

He would be making his debut with Baljeet Deo's Punjabi film, Himmat Singh, however, Arjan Bajwa is already the talk of town. His pictures in that perfectly toned body gets a number of hits everyday.

Action packed: I have worked for almost 6-7 months to get those abs for the film Himmat Singh. I have the body but since the role demanded it, I had to put in extra effort.

Then & now: For Himmat Singh I had to put on some weight, but for my upcoming film I have to shed all the abs. Now, I run for 4-5 kms everyday for the same.

Fit ‘n’ fine
Kartar Cheema

He has already been on the cover of Health magazine; Kartar needs no reason or a role to hit the gym.

Count it right: I am now working on eight-pack abs for my next film. I am virtually living in the gym and eating properly. Like Bollywood, now is the time for Punjabi actors to work on their bodies. 

Built to last 
In ‘out of sight out of mind’ Bollywood industry, actor Suniel Shetty has managed to survive for almost 24 years, and is still going strong
Ashima Batish

VipinNo and Suniel Shetty Review of last 24 years of success, failure, survival, highs and lows is spilt into two subheads. The first is of Fridays that brought positive reviews from critics, promised box office returns in the coming weeks and translated into more films. The second one, unfortunately, lengthier than the first, is an account of Fridays when nothing went right. In terms of Fridays, Suniel Shetty evaluates his 24 years in the industry, but 24 years is a long time to survive and not been written off. "To still have six films that are slated for release this year, I believe is an achievement on its own," comes from the actor, who was in Chandigarh to promote his next film Koyelaanchal.

A film with a difference

The film touches various social issues, beginning from coal mafia, Naxalism, corruption to poverty…. "The bottom line is that while we enjoy benefits of living in a country replete with natural resources, people who are closest to the resources are suffering the maximum," shares Suniel about the subject matter of the film. He is playing the role of an IAS officer that required him to do thorough research on how coal mafia functions in the states rich in coal. The ground work was inevitable, and he has instances to share that left him livid, "Those who live in proximity to coal mines suffer from so many breathing problems, the biggest irony is that the closer they are living to the mines, the poorer they are." The film, he hopes will mirror several such harsh realities, which might trigger a change.

The film doesn't boast of an item number to add to its commercial viability, has a storyline that might stir up a controversy post its release on May 9 and doesn't even has a name in the star cast that might prove to be a crowd puller. "That's all fine as long as we manage to leave an impact. Aashu Trikha (director of the film) had plans to start working on a romantic comedy but when we came across this script, the film became our priority."

All in the family

While his co-actor in the film, Vinod Khanna is a politician, Suniel confesses politics is not his cup of tea. "I joined my father's business when I was 15 and then films happened. I could never devote much time to my family, as films and business became priorities. Now I am going to shuffle priorities and let family take the first position." He is excited about his daughter, Athiya making a debut in Bollywood; it will be the first from Salman Khan Productions. "But I have taught her not to take success or failure seriously. Good and bad films are a part of the game but she is lucky to begin with a film by Salman Khan."

This year will also see six releases featuring him, Desi Katta, Lights Camera Action and a sequel to Awaara Pagal Deewana to name a few. "As to how good the films are, let the Fridays decide," he sticks to his way of living life.

ashima@tribunemail.com

In question

An Udaipur based film producer has charged Suniel Shetty of cheating. He alleged that he took the advance and has now turned down the film. Clearing his stand, Suniel says, "The producer could never set the film rolling on the dates decided. In fact, it got so delayed that the dates clashed with the shooting of my other ventures." His lawyers are now at the task. 

Shades of glamour
Aviators are evergreen but cat eyes are the latest craze. So what’s your pick?
Ashima Batish

Not everything you wear should be a diktat of fashion weeks. Originality is still rewarded and knowing what suits you the best is the first rule of fashion. Aviators, even now, is a rage after Tom Cruise introduced them twenty years back in Top Gun. Cat eyes is what two starkly different personalities like Micheal Kors and Prabal Gurung have a consensus on, indicating a another trend but if it is the round shape that suits your face, then rest the case.

A suitable case

With sun glasses, it's different. You really can't become a slave to the forecasts. As Rahumathullah, MD of Maui Jim India, suggests, "There is no rule book that defines which shape suits what face but a few conclusions have been deduced over the years." However, there are some broad parameters to indicate what type of sunglasses would suit a certain kind of a face. "While aviators generally suit a longer face, square or rectangular sunglasses look best on people who have a proportional face and sharp features. Rectangular frames suit people with a round face." But then we see people wearing all the shapes, all the time.

Fashion weeks’ darling

If the forecast for spring summer season of the fashion weeks are anything to go by, then cat eyes is surely the shape that most of the accessory and designer brands are investing in. Jeremy Scott lent rainbow shades to the extending frame of the cat eyes, Marc Jacobs did away with the frame to present rose-tinted shades with a hint of rectangular shape, Kate Spade embellished her creations with flowers and Jason Wu kept it simple and cat-eyed. It has become a rage in India as well, from Sonam Kapoor to Isha Gupta to Kangana Ranaut… each has worn cat eyes, a shape that was once popularized by Audrey Hepburn.

"Cat eyes shape has been in fashion from the last two years. This year, the only difference is the material of the frame, which is plastic. It is a durable material in the summer," says Ranpreet Singh, owner, Weldon. It looks the best on people who have a rectangular face, with a bony structure. But it is people with oval face, who can experiment the most with the shapes of sun glasses.

Beyond black and brown

As for colours, it's a personal choice. But why not experiment with a pink or blue tint this time. Prabal Gurung showed it how to do it at the New York Fashion Week. Or try Oakley's classic purple and yellow. Tommy Hilfiger's red aviators is a lesson in how to get tinted shades right. But black and brown are her to stay, no matter how the frame is moulded, no matter you like retro or aviators!

stress buster
Give it a thought
Renee Singh

''Why Meditation'' many of us have this question, and that is why I feel the need to talk about it. May has been declared as the National Meditation Month in America, so I thought we could also give it equal attention for our own benefit. I personally feel that if we are not already in the habit of meditating we can definitely gain some insights into stress relief by focusing on the benefits of meditation. Meditation surely brings some amazingly wonderful health benefits along with short term and long term stress relief.

Meditation for all

It is truly great to be able to say that meditation has it's own Month exclusively given to it, so that one can feel free to nudge people into it. I'm personally a fan of meditation and love it as a technique to recommend to readers and clients as a personal practice for stress relief.

Meditation techniques

In truth any activity you perform when you stay fully in the present, completely and non-judgmentally in the here and now, can be termed as meditation. When practiced in true consciousness regularly can bring many benefits into your life.

Mindful meditation

When we focus mindfully on anything we can call it mindful meditation.

Mindful meditation sensations

Pay focused attention to sensations and feelings in your body, inside and otherwise, this method can be used to control stress.

Mindful meditation - thoughts

Clear your mind so that you can let go if all the negative thoughts by labelling them rather than engaging in the.

Mindful meditation- breathing

Being aware of one's own breath is a very emotionally and physically relaxing feeling.

Mindful meditation - taste

Stressed people often use sense of taste as a stress reliever, sometimes through mindless munching. We are also constantly satisfying our sweet cravings brought on by cortisol. Use your taste buds to become involved in the present moment. Savour your food, its a simple way to relax.

Meditation challenges

For some people even these simple techniques can be challenging specially if you are a perfectionist. It is hard to feel satisfied and relaxed. There are a few simple ways to handling meditation which you can use:

Get comfortable

Close your eyes, just do this and sit back and relax and observe your thoughts.

Clear your mind

Simple way is to focus on your breathing or on the feel of the wind on your face or the sound in the background. Do not let obsessing thoughts get to you.

Start slow

Perfectionists tend to have huge goals and then procrastinate or just give up if it's too tough. For best results start small and work upwards.

Try different techniques

There are many different techniques. If one doesn't work for you try another until you find a practice that suits you completely.

Different strategies can be helpful but meditation has such wonderful benefits that it will be the most successful strategy for stress relief.

(Singh is a Chandigarh based psychotherapist)

From a daughter to her mother, with love
Amarjot Kaur

Creative call: Ramesh Gupta (Sitting), behind (L-R)  Arshpreet Kaur, Neha Mehta and Renuka Goyal  Of all the gifts, treasured, loved, and reserved, there is not a bigger gift than the gift of life. Perhaps, that reasons the intrinsic feeling of indebted love and attachment for our parents. While most of us just cherish that love, there are some who worship it and a very few, who honour it. Renuka Goyal fits perfectly well in the third category when she, with her husband, Mukesh Goyal pay a tribute to her mother, Ramesh Gupta as they get a biography written about her in the book titled The Iron Lady.

In conversation with Renuka and Mukesh, we stand informed that the reason behind writing a book about her Ramesh was to be able to inspire people with the story of her life, which was that of a common woman, who was not so common. “I have been inspired from her life and that prompted me to write a book about her life, which will inspire others too," says Renuka. Her statement is backed by her husband, who says, "We have made project reports on influential people as kids, so why can't we possibly write a book about our parents, who inspire us at all times?"

The book has been published by Inc Media and is written by two freelance writers, Arshpreet Kaur and Neha Mehta, who are in the second semester of their Masters course at School of Communication studies at Punjab University. While talking about writing the book, Arshpreet says that it was important for them to sit with both Renuka and Mukesh to be able to get the first-hand information about Ramesh so as to make the contents of the book as original as they could. "It's important for a writer to feel the subject that they are writing about, so we spenst a long time with the Goyal family," shares Neha. While Ramesh was evidently overwhelmed at the tribute paid to her by her daughter, she just smiled and shared, “ In all my life I have only known that there is no substitute for hard work, determination, and will power."

Beauty basics
Dig into your kitchen to get your skin summer ready
Amarjot Kaur

While the summer sun continues to get hotter with every passing day, one is likely to suffer at the cost of heat and pollution. Now because skin is the largest organ in the human body, its more than obvious why one should bother about taking good care of it, especially during summers, when you can actually flaunt it. Here are some quick tips that will help you to keep your skin glowing all through the summer sun, and that too, naturally.

As cool as a cucumber

In conversation with Betty Nagia, a city-based skincare expert, we are acquainted with a long list of home remedies, which she says will not only beautify the skin, but will also protect it. The face pack recipe she swears by is the cucumber juice. All that you need to do is to take a pealed cucumber, grind it and sieve its juice out, which you can apply on your face like a toner. "Cucumber juice does not only help one to get rid of the tan, but also refreshes," says Betty while adding, "If you mix it with oats and apply it on your skin, it will act as a perfect scrub." Meanwhile, she also advocates use of tomato juice for damaged and tanned skin. "One should always pick a fruit of their choice and keep applying it on their skin. Peaches and papayas are a very good fruit pack options for this season," shares Betty.

Tomato time

When it comes to summer tan, nothing works better than the tomato juice. "I can swear by it anytime and anywhere. In fact, I keep a bottle of tomato juice in my refrigerator and apply it on my skin with cotton," says Tanvi KJ, a city based make up expert. She adds that it's a wise option to keep one's toner in the refrigerator and then apply it on. "It helps in tightening the pores and gives a radiant skin," says she.

All things natural and nice

"In summers, one's skin tends to get oily, so hung-curd in cloth or stale curd and mixed with grated cucumber is a very good option," says Tanvi. Also, while talking about the harsh summer rashes, she avers that constant use of cucumber and water melon juice is the best option. "Also, multani mitti with curd does magic for oily skin and you may also mix dry powdered almonds with curd as a summer scrub," she says. Tanvi also encourages the use of egg white for tightening your skin. Meanwhile Richa Aggarwal of Cleopatra Spa, Beauty and Wellness Clinic says, "Besan, honey and malai face pack will work wonders for dry skin, but for acne skin, besan and curd mixed with two drops of honey will be a perfect summer anti-tan pack. Also, for redness, one can use cucumber juice and rosewater. Also, for under eye treatment chilled used tea bags and potato juice is a great option."

amarjot@tribunemail.com

Makeup tips for summer

We know how important it is for a woman to get her makeup right, so the radical advise that Tanvi gives us is the KISS (Keep it simple silly) Formula! "It's time to say bye to foundations and hello to peach-toned blushers and smudge free kajals. Also, you could apply matt Bobby Brown long wear skin-shaded eye shadow under the eyeliner to keep it from smudging," says Tanvi. She says that the it's best to go for a skin tightening serum from Kiehl's with a coat of bb cream by L'occtaine. "Keep the face mists handy too, because you don't want to be seen sweating," she quips!

Beauty is skin deep

  • 1 watermelon thick peals
  • 1 bowl of coriander leaves
  • Fist full of spinach leaves
  • 1 small onion
  • 1 inch of ginger
  • 10-12 flakes of garlic
  • Black salt to taste
  • A pinch roasted cumin

Grid all the ingredients together in a mixing machine and eat generous amounts of this with each meal.

star track
Let the son shine
In Bollywood, many sons have followed the profession of their father. Some have succeeded, some have not. We take a look at some of the popular father-son duos 

Not up to the mark
Amitabh Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan

As we all know, Amitabh Bachchan was a nobody who became a Bollywood icon. The phenomenally talented star's son has not made a mark like his father. He is kind of a struggling star whom people cast in multi-starrers, due to his comic timing and famous last name. He does not work in solo films anymore.

Like a good boy
Rakesh Roshan and Hrithik Roshan

Rakesh Roshan did not make the cut as an actor but made waves as a director and Hrithik Roshan has definitely done him proud. The superstar is gorgeous, talented and a complete package. He is truly a star.

Taking the legacy forward
Rishi Kapoor and Ranbir Kapoor

Rishi Kapoor was never a top star but he was always in the running and made a mark with his charm, acting and dance moves. Ranbir Kapoor is one of the best actors and a superstar of his time. He has it in him to become an all-time-great actor. 

Two steps ahead
Salim Khan and Salman Khan

Salim Khan did not make it as an actor but he was and is an ace-writer. Out of all his children, it is Salman Khan who is the most successful and a super duper star. 

The admiration club

Jacqueline Fernandez Jacqueline Fernandez loved working with Salman Khan on Kick and was amazed at how Salman inspired everyone on the sets to work-out and be healthy. She has never seen such a fit unit before.

On a disappointing note

Jeetendra and Tusshar Kapoor

Jeetendra became famous with his brand of acting and set up a production house that grew under the aegis of his wife and daughter. Tusshar Kapoor is quite the untalented performer who works mostly with Balaji and Rohit Shetty. He is a bona fide flop!

Should be something

The promo of Hansal Mehta's City Lights, starring Rajkummar Rao and newcomer Patralekha, is now out online and this is the second collaboration for the duo after their National Award win recently. The film is produced by Vishesh Films and releases later this month.

A short breather

Alia Bhatt went away on a holiday to London with her mother Soni and sister Shaheen after the success of her films, 2 States and Highway. She has come back to complete the shooting for Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhaniya.

The first impression

The teaser trailer of Mastizaade featuring a bikini-clad Sunny Leone as Laila Lele is now on YouTube. The sex comedy is directed by Milap Zavera of Jaane Kaha Se Aayi Hai fame.

Not quite the bond girl!

Actress Zarine Khan recently fell sick and was hospitalised due to food poisoning. She is a part of Punjabi film Jatt James Bond and her next Hindi film is Partner.

Matter of priorities

Ajay Devgn, who is currently busy working on Singham 2, recently cancelled a shoot of the film due to his father's illness. His condition is said to be stable now and Ajay has resumed the shooting. 

Some joy, some grief

Actor-producer Riteish Deshmukh remembered his late father and former Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Vilasrao Deshmukh after winning his first National Award for Marathi film Yellow.

Produced by Riteish, the critically acclaimed film that follows the story of a girl suffering from Down's Syndrome, was conferred a Special Jury Award at the 61st National Film Awards.

The 35-year-old Grand Masti star received the honour from President Pranab Mukherjee.

"With Honourable President of India Shri Pranab Mukherjee receiving the National Award for Yellow," Riteish tweeted along with a photo. The actor got emotional after receiving the honour and dedicated it to his father, who passed away in 2012 after suffering from a serious liver ailment. "My first National Award. This one is for my father... He would have been proud and said with a smile, 'Well done beta'," he wrote further. The actor, who ventured into production last year with Marathi film Balak-Palak, will be next seen in Bollywood film Ek Villain. — PTI

On the wrong track

Supermodel Heidi Klum's friends are reportedly worried about her rude and erratic behavior, which has apparently made her difficult to be handled.

Some of the friends of the 40-year-old model are said to be disheartened with her wild behavior, reported a publication online. "Heidi's drinking and outspoken rude behavior is winning her no friends these days. She's going through a bad midlife crisis that makes her almost impossible to deal with," a source said. "Heidi spent most of last year partying and she needs to shape up or face consequences," the source added.

Klum, who is currently dating Vito Schnabel, is reportedly not spending enough time with her children, Leni, nine, Henry, eight, Johan, seven, and Lou, four. "Since Vito came on the scene, her kids have spent a lot more time with their nannies than with her!," the source said. — PTI 

chatter box
New boys on the block
With fresh talent entering the industry every season, we take a look at the boys, who are currently seen on tv

Man of many colours
Vishal Vashishtha of Veera

Playing the role of a bad boy, Baldev, in the show Veera, was a good transition for Vishal as he did Crazy Stupid Ishq on Channel V earlier. From a negative, angry man to a lover boy, there have been many changes in his character but his charisma hasn't waned.

Positively negative
Vatsal Seth of Ek Hasina Thi

Vatsal was seen on television many years ago when he played the role of Jai in the show, Just Mohobbat. Now, he has returned to television, but this time he will be seen in a devilish avatar while essaying the role of Shourya Goenka in the show, Ek Hasina Thi. The light-eyed lad has already made many women swoon after his lean frame and extremely good looks.

Sheer dedication
Mishkat Varma of Aur Pyaar Ho Gaya

Mishkat oozes sincerity, not only in his role as Raj in the show, Aur Pyaar Ho Gaya, but also in his personality. He uses his innocence and intensity to make his character work. His adorable smile makes all the difference.

If looks could kill
Shivin Narang of Veera

His pleasing personality makes him the ideal boy, who you can take home to your mommy. His sweet demeanour and honesty works well for his on-screen character in the show Veera, making it a favourite among audiences.

Working his charm
Harshad Chopra of Beintehaa

This newcomer's sweet charm makes the girls go weak in their knees and he is now using his good looks to create magic on screen with his debut show, Beintehaa. The shirtless ones, especially have garnered much attention.

Neither shaken, nor stirred

After the show, Parichay, Keerti Nagpure was looking forward to a good run in her next show, Nandini, but unfortunately, the show is ending sooner than expected. However, Keerti is taking it all in her stride. She talks to us about the show and more.

How are you feeling about Nandini ending?

Its ok that Nandini is ending. When one journey ends, another begins. That's life! I must say I had a great time shooting the show. We all connected very well, be it actors, technicians or the crew.

Does the low TRP of your show bother you?

We tried to give people something new in terms of content, but they weren't ready to accept that. They wanted saas-bahu drama. Like we showed that voting is essential and other story tracks around it, but we got a feedback that people didn't get it and weren't interested.

Do you know about your fans who still want Parichay back?

Yes, there is a demand for Parichay 2 and its overwhelming to receive so much love. I will join Twitter soon too figure out what my fans want. I would love to keep my fans entertained and would love to do season 2 of Parichay.

Who are your friends in the industry?

I am friendly with many people who I have worked with. They are good friends but not great friends.

What's next for you?

I have no plans. I am in Pune with my family as the shooting of the show has ended.

People ask me to bless their babies: Saurabh

One totally tends to believe Saurabh Raj Jain when he says that Lord Krishna has a mystic smile on his face, and that he had to work very hard to get that while acting. The actor plays the role of Lord Krishna in Siddharth Kumar Tewary's show Mahabharat that is telecast on Star Plus. "I am so much into the role that even when I am off the camera, I sometimes behave like Krishna. Performing Krishna onscreen is not easy. I had to read various books, including The Palace of Illusions, Difficulty Of Being God, Jaya and Bhagavad Gita to understand the persona of Krishna," he shares.

"Playing the role of Krishna changed me as a person. I have understood that nothing is eternal in this world. And that's what precisely Krishna's mystic smile is all about," he said. Besides, now I am calmer and can control my anger better, said Saurabh. "We shoot at the remote parts of Gujarat and I get touched when people ask me to bless their babies. I bless their children but not as a god but as an elder."

Jain has also worked in daily soaps like Parichay and Uttaran and is currently playing Lord Vishnu in the show, Mahadev.

Astro Turf
p Khurrana

ARIES: Never trust a stranger. Socially, you may have some problems with a loved one. However, it would not be too serious. Do not let friends and family get in the way of a close relationship. Tarot message: Be creative to retain the grip over your business. Lucky colour: Fuchsia Magic number: 60

TAURUS: Work will progress smoothly. You will be in the mood to socialise and widen your social circle. Your hectic schedule may leave you feeling tired, so make it a priority to rest and relax. Tarot message: Arrogance and pride will not be rewarded. Lucky colour: Violet Magic number: 27

GEMINI: Be extra careful if you are signing any paper work, as there could be more to the situation than what meets the eye. Socialising will keep you busy. Your past efforts will bring new career opportunities. Tarot message: Do not try to end all the deadlocks at one go. Lucky colour: Metallic grey Magic number: 39

CANCER:You need to take frequent breaks and watch out your diet and fitness routine. Travel plans for business or pleasure are on the cards. Monetary gains are indicated. Work will be hectic. Tarot message: Delays are the only obstacle in your way to success. Lucky colour: Deep red Magic number: 40

LEO: You need to be focused and prepared as seniors and business associates will take note of your ability to handle last minute changes. Your love life will be good. Don't make financial decisions in haste. Tarot message: Act righteously and do your duty on time. Lucky colour: Navy blue Magic Number: 61

VIRGO: You may be unable to make up your mind about an important decision, spend some time mulling over your options and don't hesitate to discuss things with close associates. Tarot message: Avoid making personal remarks as they can be taken seriously. Lucky colour: White Magic number: 37

LIBRA: Spending time with loved ones will be a priority. Issues about money matters may be on your mind. Going out of your way to help colleagues or loved ones will earn you good will and appreciation. Tarot message: You are advised to focus on professional changes. Lucky colour: Peach Magic number: 31

SCORPIO: You could be in a tense and restless mood and may feel agitated about certain matters concerning your career or personal life. This is a just a temporary phase. You attract prestigious opportunities. Tarot message: Do not delegate your tasks to anyone, do it yourself. Lucky colour: Saffron Magic number: 29

SAGITTARIUS: Try to tune into today's influences, which will restore you to amiable humour. Focus on health, diet and exercise. Drive carefully. A raise in interest can hit your bank balance hard. Tarot message: You need to act for yourself and for no one else. Lucky colour: Lotus pink Magic number: 65

CAPRICORN: Avoid a Scorpio, who will drag you down with cautious advice. You will learn from practical experience. Music and dip in the arts are uplifting. Don't make hasty decisions. Tarot message: Allow a sick situation blow over before starting new. Lucky colour: Yellow Magic number: 27

AQUARIUS: It's important not to let them get at you too much. Just knuckle down to doing what is true for you. Don't ramp on over sensitive corns. Let today's influences bounce up your optimism. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid any inbuilt delays. Lucky colour: Silver grey Magic number: 42

PISCES: Proceed slowly and cautiously towards your goals and double-check everything. Don't let feelings of inadequacy hold you back. Yoga and swimming are great fitness routine for you. Tarot message: Avoid gossip sessions. Lucky colour: Brown Magic number: 63

The Year Ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is May 5...

The period requires you to be careful while dealing with the happenings. On the career front, the year can give you much stress. Money matters may act as a constraint and force you to start saving money. Personal relationships may suffer due to lack of self-discipline. Health matters may need attention as there are chances for stomach problems. Be independent and take your own decisions when it comes to making fresh investments. Do not expect much from your love stars. In the love and relationships realm too things shall get better, as the year advancs. Now is the time to dare and earn. A new proposal will be made to those born after 1980.

Positive colours: Green, turquoise, sea green and blue

Select days: Wednesday and Friday

Favourable numbers: 5 and 6

Gems recommended: Emerald, onyx and ruby

Charity on birthday: Feed lepers or physically challenged people.

You share your birthday with the popular musician, Adele, who became a mainstream success at nineteen when she released the four-time Platinum-selling album 19 and won the Grammy Award for Best New Artist in 2009. She won a Golden Globe Award for Skyfall. She and Beyonce Knowles became tied for winning the most Grammy Awards in the one night in 2012.





HOME PAGE | Punjab | Haryana | Jammu & Kashmir | Himachal Pradesh | Regional Briefs | Nation | Opinions |
| Business | Sports | World | Letters | Chandigarh | Ludhiana | Delhi |
| Calendar | Weather | Archive | Subscribe | E-mail |