Scripting success
A story is the soul of a film, those penning it are having a good go in the Punjabi film industry
Jasmine Singh

Were you laughed at ever by your folks or friends for building castles in the air? And if you are sticking to this habit, you should be happy for there is more pleasure in building castles in the air than on the ground. To top it, if you are being paid a really decent amount for building castles in the air, if people actually come in actually to stay in these castles and end up making a film in your castle! If it is so then you are a successful script writer. The Punjabi film industry might be walking on a tight rope; it is never short of stories to tell. If one story makes history by tickling funny bone of thousands (read Carry On Jatta, Mr and Mrs 420, Naughty Jatts), there are others that have left your eyes moist (Nabar, Sikander, Kirpaan). Take a peep into the castles Punjabi film script writers, and find out how they made these castles, what are kinds they like making, for whom would they love to build more and what happens when the castle in the air meets the reality turf!

Naresh Kathooria
Naresh Kathooria wrote the script for Carry On Jatta 

Dheeraj Rattan
Dheeraj Rattan

Amberdeep Singh
Amberdeep Singh

Write on

And this is where a film is born, from an idea that loiters in the mind of a person, who decides to hold it by the neck and brings it to form a story. This is ideally how a scriptwriter begins. But is the process different for Punjabi films. "As far as I know, it is the same for all scriptwriters," Rupinder Inderjit laughs. This young scriptwriter has a Punjabi film Ishq Brandy to his name and is now working on a Hindi and two Punjabi scripts. "The only difference here is that as a scriptwriter, I know that romance and comedy is something that the audience wants to see, so accordingly I weave my stories." In the recent past most of the Punjabi films have based on either a comic or romantic scripts. Their have only been a few experimental or let's say thought proving films, which haven't done well at the box office. This could restrict the creativity and horizon of a scriptwriter leaving them with some set plots that sell.

Beyond laughter

Scriptwriter and director Dheeraj Rattan who has written umpteen films, from the famous Jatt & Juliet, Singh Vs Kaur, Mel Kara De Rabba, Rambo Ranjha completely denies it. "When I am writing a story, I close my eyes and run the movie in my head and then write it. As a scriptwriter, I have the choice to write what I want to tell people. I personally like to write on subjects that are easy on mind, a film that would be entertaining. Romcoms do exactly that, which is why they are the most favoured subjects." Nonetheless, it isn't always a scriptwriter's call; sometimes the producers and directors ask for a particular subject. Adds Dheeraj, "There are limitations within the industry, producers will always play safe, nonetheless I along with people like Navaniat Singh and Anurag Singh trying to bring in change, sometimes it gets hit and other times it backfires."n Surprisingly, whenever a scriptwriter has tried to move out of the popular plots and written something like Vyah 70 km, Kirpaan, Rangeelay, Just U & me have failed disastrously. This clearly leaves them with one genre to work on - comedy. Take it from the most popular scriptwriter of Punjabi films Naresh Kathooria who is known to have written the best of comedy films. "Producers and directors approach me for comedy only since they think I am pretty good in it. This doesn't restrict my creativity because I try and give a different comedy with every film, which also is a huge challenge." Given a chance, Naresh would love to write a love story. "All the same, I enjoy writing comedy and it comes naturally to me."

It is somewhere down the line clear that scriptwriters are bound by the existing trend. Not to forget they are being paid helluva amount for the same.

The young scriptwriter Rupinder Inderjeet opened his innings in Pollywood with Ishq Brandy
The young scriptwriter Rupinder Inderjeet opened his innings in Pollywood with Ishq Brandy

Money game

There was a time when a scriptwriter wasn't given due credit for the work, however now the scriptwriters in Punjabi films are happy with the credit and the remuneration. Rumour has it that some scriptwriters are drawing as much as Rs 40 lakh for a film. Says Rupinder, "A beginner gets a decent amount like Rs 11-12 lakh, the popular ones are definitely drawing more money." The increased in the fee charged by scriptwriters draws a lot of flak, but this is a fact now.

Adds Amberdeep Singh, a well-known scriptwriter of Daddy Cool Munde Fool, Singh Vs Kaur, Happy Go lucky, Goreyan Nu Dafa Karo, "I am still of the opinion that all kinds of scripts are a welcome in Punjabi film industry, and scriptwriters are enjoying this space, both creatively and economically."

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Telling tales
As a prelude to an upcoming award function, a television channel organises a meet and greet with its actors.
Manpriya Singh

(L-R) Mihika Verma and Pooja Joshi
(L-R) Mihika Verma and Pooja Joshi Photos: S. Chandan

The thing about television stars, daily soaps and reality shows is that either you love them or you don't know about them. The idiot box usually doesn't lend itself to a third perspective. And that puts things in a happy space. Preferably in the living room, where people who watch them everyday, love them beyond any story leaps or even slow pace.

After all, television is the alpha and omega in entertainment. As a part of celebration of all things soap opera, Star Plus rolls out an invite to meet and greet the actors we all know as Ranvijay, Ahem, Varsha and Mehika, while they visit Chandigarh as a teaser to the upcoming Star Parivaar Awards 2014. While on their trip to city beautiful, they are just a knock away in their hotel rooms. Some have just finished brunch, others are sorting out the clothes, but all are sans make up and put on pretenses of their character.

Punjabi by nature

Getting to play a famous onscreen brother has a major flipside for a young boy. Imagine girls lovingly addressing him as Veerji. "When girls say that to me, then, I also automatically develop such a brotherly feeling towards them," laughs Shivin Narang, who we all know as the adorable Ranvijay Singh from Ek Veer Ki Ardaas…Veera. "Veera is a Punjabi show and I feel connected to people here." It's been an absolute switch from Suvreen Guggal-Topper of the Year, aired on a youth music channel, to a daily soap. "That was watched by teenage girls and this one by elderly women…It was quite a transition from dealing with relationship problems to real life problems," adds the national level shooter from Delhi. How close does he feel to the character in real life? "In real life also I'm very protective. I think it's in every Punjabi's blood." True that.

Catch me not

Getting to play yourself on television and with name intact is a rare. But then Mihika Verma has always been destiny's child. Right from the Miss India International crown that came her way back in 2004 when Lakshmi Pandit turned out to be married. The feisty girl from Yeh Hai Mohabbatein is just playing herself again. "In real life too, I'm a gundi. The creative team knew the real me and offered me the role. I can beat boys if they mess with me and I am exactly playing myself," she laughs. If it weren't for the strict television schedules, there might be time to try different things. "I don't plan much but I am really open to anchor based shows." In between twice a year, the girl finds time for her first love, which is modeling. "I have to do Wills and Lakme Fashion Show during the year," shares the girl born and brought up in Mumbai.

Yours faithfully

Here comes the Pooja Joshi as Varsha Maheshwari. Perhaps, television's favourite bhabi from Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai. Playing a mother, for the prime time darling, didn't come easy though. "Let alone have a child, I'm not even married,' shares the girl from Uttaranchal, born and brought up in Delhi, who finally landed in Mumbai, through auditions.

Phone a friend

Now we are talking to a Punjabi boy who's fluent in the language. Mohammad Nazim, cites Malerkotla as his hometown, but Chandigarh is where his heart is."I spent as many as 10 years in the city and I remember each and everything like the back of my hand."Which is why his phone can't stop ringing, ever since he landed. "My friends know I am here and they are all after me." The Ahem Modi from Saath Nibhana Saathiya, (perhaps one of the longest running shows) landed a role in the serial, through auditions but after having done a couple of Punjabi music videos. "I worked with Rimpy Prince, Miss Pooja, Kuldeep Manak etc." Coming up is Ajj De Full Fukrey.

As for the award shows,"I am doing an action sequence, for which trainers were called from Russia." Nevertheless, he adds, "Awards are not all that important to me. What matters to me is when an ordinary person walking down the road recognises me by my character name."

manpriya@tribunemail.com

Punjabi Tadka
Melodious note
Singer Maninder Buttar's track Yaari is ruling the charts. The young singer is excited, but grounded to the core
Jasmine Singh

You don't have to be best friends with him to know him well. Almost five minutes into the conversation, singer Maninder Buttar will beautifully and honestly spread the insides of his heart out! There is nothing hidden, everything with him is crystal clear, no spots. With his track Yaari ruling the charts, this young singer doesn't look for anything extraordinary to make him happy. In fact, he finds happiness in the smiles of his parents, his two sisters and his nephew Yuval. Maninder is a keen observer who believes that one should always chase their dreams to the end. "Go where your heart lies," he says adding, "I followed my dreams. There is a long way to go still." Presenting Maninder and the songs of his heart - uncut!

I couldn't be anything but

A singer, every molecule of my body screamed that I only wanted to sing. I never thought I would ever be a doctor or engineer. When I was a kid, once my mother, Charan Kaur, who is a teacher at a government school, took me to her school function and I keenly observed the students who were rehearsing. Out of nowhere, I requested someone that I wanted to go on stage and sing. 'Nana munna rahin hun' was the first track I sang.

Inspiration flows

I can't recall or single out one person who made a difference to my career. My parents and sisters supported me; they never forced me into anything else. My father, Harjit Singh Buttar, always stood by my decision despite being skeptical for sometime. I listen to all the singers till date and they are inspiration to me. I love how Sharry Maan sings; I wish I could have a voice like him.

What's on my i-Pod

If I am fond of a track, I will listen to it a hundred times. These days I am hooked on to Babul by Amrinder Gill and Koi karja beywafaai by Sharry Maan.

Live fun

Recently, I performed in Bathinda; a place where I have studied. It was an amazing feeling returning to a place after I have made some name. The fans were calling out my name and singing with me.

Call it funny

Only days ago at a car showroom, an insurance guy asked me to pose in front of the car. I thought he had recognised me but since he couldn't find the real owner of the car, he asked me to pose!

Style check

I wear anything that comes my way. Actually, I look up to my sisters Ramandeep Kaur Batth and Amandeep Kaur Cheema, who stay in Australia, for style tips. They are my stylists.

Left on an island

I will take my parents, sisters and my 'pindwala' house along.

jasmine@tribunemail.com

In the lanes of love
Amarjot Kaur

Priyam Kumar It is not a unique observation to conclude that a writer's association with the black ink of thoughts running through his veins governs most of his impulses. Priyam Kumar takes rather fondly to his passion for writing, which barely seems to interfere with his professional life. A software engineer by profession, Priyam engages in an interesting banter about his new book A Warm Winter. "This is my second book," he says as he promptly drops the name of his first novel, The Seventh Semester, post which he explains the difference between the two.

"While my first novel was essentially a campus story, A Warm Winter is a romantic thriller," he shares. Triggered by the thought of drama evoked by the eccentricities involved in romantic liaisons, Priyam was certain that his second novel would elaborate heavily on the concerns between the lovers, as they graduate from different levels of intimacy towards something more concrete and stable. "In any relationship, there is a tendency that lovers hide their past and the past has its way of haunting the present, interfering with it in ways most unimaginable. My book deals with these dilemmas of lovers, which have the propensity to shake the very foundation of the relationship," he shares. He adds that though the book is essentially a fiction, it draws much influence from his personal life.

Priyam's style of writing is colloquial, but it creates a colossal impact with its sheer capacity to captivate the reader through a rather relatable subject. "For me, both the characters and the story are equally important but there is no denying the fact that the characters ride on the story, so they definitely take the precedence," says Priyam. He adds that the story is set in the City Beautiful. "Although I hail from Delhi, I have been in Chandigarh for over four years now and I could not possibly find a better place for my characters. Also, my growing familiarity and fondness for Chandigarh was the basis for the bias I take to this city," he smiles.

The story unveils the trials and travails of Abhay and Anamika, as their love undergoes the strange quirks of fate and queer vicissitudes of misfortune, which determines their tryst with love, friendship and trust.

amarjot@tribunemail.com

Be a sport
Sports inspired street fashion that’s been seen on stars is all here for you
Mona

Model in Farm Collection at the newly opened store This major sports brand giant has decided to rope-in our Bollywood stars, who have a major say in dictating fashion trends and have embraced it with open arms.

Be it Alia Bhatt stepping in bright orange winged wedges on a promotional event or Priyanka Chopra walking in purple multi-tone wings or Jacqueline Fernandez going for all while wings, Adidas Originals have increasingly been seen on the stars. Globally, David Beckham, Kanye West and Katy Perry have represented Adidas Originals in their every day style.

If we want to step in style of the superstars you have adored, Adidas Originals is here in your city! The 11th store in the country opened it doors formally on Saturday bringing in their fashion, which has been a global hit.

Tushar Goculdas, Brand Director, Adidas India, says, "Represented by the trefoil, Adidas Originals is set to bring more street style to the city of Chandigarh and give the people access to the biggest street fashion label in the world. Adidas is a symbol for individuality, creativity and self-expression." Seeing a huge response in the city through their shop-in-shop, they have got exclusive access of their global product range in the new outlet in Sector 17. Here's what's in store for you.

Happy feet

Alia BhattHave wings on your feet with Jeremy Scott collection. Created by the iconic fashion designer Jeremy Scott, it has a riot of colours and much more. While Adidas sportswear was all about comfort and performance, this is totally 'fearless' as labelled by the brand. It has increasingly been on the check-list of Bollywood fashionistas.

Super stuff

From basketball court where it was worn by the legendary player Kareem Abdul Jabbar, one of the most famous sneakers of the world, Superstar, is here to stay. Supported by Ranveer Singh and Varun Dhawan, Superstar, with three stripes, has a huge following.

Priyanka ChopraFIFA fever

FIFA is the biggest event for Adidas and they have come up with a farm collection created in collaboration with a Rio-based label called The Farm Company. The colourful floral-wear has tank tops, shorts and jackets. While women can go colourful in flowers, men can opt for skulls and eagles in the iconic collection. Then there is Telstar bringing up the heritage past with the first official Adidas match ball from the 1970 Mexico World Cup. There is more in retro - jerseys for Argentina, Germany and Spain!

White wash

The all-white Stan Smith shoes, named after the legendary tennis superstar, are also here. Adidas Originals has apparels staring from Rs 2,500 and shoes from around Rs 4,000 onwards. The wings, bones and flowers on the shoes are really refreshing.

mona@tribunemail.com

Wok an experience!
Savour the best of Chinese cuisine at the Wok Tok Festival, Kylin Experience, Elante
Manpriya Singh

Kylin Experience at Elante Mall brings the Wok Tok festival What is the best way to debut with a festival for a pan-Asian restaurant? Start with the ubiquitous food from China region and put together Hunani, Cantonese, Schezwan, Hakka n Hong Kong…at least on the culinary map. Kylin Experience at Elante Mall presents Wok Tok Festival wherein they claim to bring the 'wok on table experience' from as many as six regions.

While the menu lists a delightful spread for a non-vegetarian, the six regions put together serve four options for a vegetarian! Is the green brigade disappointed? The red dots read as chicken in mala sauce, sliced chicken in black bean and celery, schezwan chicken in bullet chillies, hot pot lamb, shredded lamb in hot bean sauce, braised duck in orange liqueur, whole red snapper, steamed sole duajiou sauce, stir fried prawns, sweet water, prawn, pork in oyster sauce, moist egg fried rice, among others.

While braised eggplant in hot bean sauce is an innovative way of serving an eggplant, almost like fries, vermicelli noodles could be given a neat skip. They do nothing to the palate nor bring out the flavour of the accompanying dishes. Wok tossed assorted mushrooms can be a delight for mushroom lovers, as they bring together, as the waiter lists, "Four different kinds of mushrooms."

Other than the wok experience (name for a Chinese cooking technique to do with round bottomed utensil) it's a step in sync with the summer spirit when families come together and evening outings increase. "The portions are quite large and been made family size...this is the first food festival we are doing here. We thought of starting with China region. After this many festivals are to come, starting with the Japanese food festival, which is likely to be a much bigger affair," shares the managing director Saurabh Khamijo.

(On till the June 15)

manpriya@tribunemail.com

star track
Parenthood calling!

Putting months of speculation to rest, Riteish Deshmukh finally admitted that he is well on his way to becoming a father.

In his latest interview, Riteish confessed that his wife Genelia D'Souza is pregnant. "Yes, she is pregnant and we are looking forward to the baby and are very excited about it," Riteish was quoted as saying.

While Genelia has been sporting a baby bump for quite some time now, it is not clear when the baby is due. Riteish who is fiercely protective about his private life refused to divulge any more information. Riteish had also earlier admitted that parenthood is a natural progression and there is no pressure on either of them to start a family. "Let's see when it happens," was his response then. Well, we are sure everyone is happy that it has happened now. Here's wish the future parents lots of happy and wonderful parenting days ahead.

Happy couple: Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia D'Souza

Promotional propaganda

Jagga Jassos will promote Bobby Jasoos. Dia Mirza, the producer of Bobby Jasoos has approached Ranbir Kapoor for a series which is part of the promotions for the film. She will return the favour when his film releases.

Change the date

Shahid Kapoor should not release Haider on October 2 and clash with Hrithik Roshan starrer Bang Bang because Haider will not stand a chance against that movie. The makers should change the date.

Labour of love

Ashutosh Gowariker has been out of the limelight for a while. His films like What's Your Raashee and Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey bombed at the box office. He talks about his upcoming film Mohejo Daro starring Hrithik Roshan.

Back in time

It's one of the most ancient-urban civilizations but it's been limited to only a paragraph in history textbooks. Who were these people and how did they live their lives? What is their story? These were the questions bothering and inspiring me. So after Lagaan and Jodhaa Akbar, this time we are travelling back to the 26th century BC.

Star power

I gave the first narration to Hrithik Roshan back in 2011 and he was instantly convinced about the project. He fell in love with the story. However, Hrithik had various previous commitments, which he needed to complete before he could dedicate himself to a mammoth project like Mohenjo Daro. He had a major chunk of dates allotted to Karan Johar's Shuddhi. However, since he decided to opt out of it, we decided to begin work on my film.

A love story

While the plot will follow the discovery of Mohenjo-daro and the culture and the vibe of the ancient civilisation, it will largely centre on a love story.

Huge research

I've met as many as seven archaeologists who have been closely involved in documenting the discovery of the Indus Valley Civilisation. I have also visited the archaeological site of Dhola Veera in Kutch (Gujarat) for a recce. I'm soon going to visit Mohenjo-daro as well. But since the film is set in a certain period, we will have to recreate the whole site in a film studio. We are presently working on the logistics.

Taking risks

Some films you make with a lot of passion and integrity, but they fail. What can you do about it? I'm very proud of Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey and given a chance, I wouldn't have made it differently. As far as taking risks is concerned, Mohenjo Daro will probably be my most risky film till date. If you let the box office numbers cloud your cinematic vision, then you will never be able to make the film you truly want to make.

Secret rendezvous

Shraddha Kapoor and Aditya Roy Kapur refuse to admit that they are dating each other. Last week, he was spotted outside her apartment and his BMW was parked in her apartment's compound in the wee hours of the morning.

Keep guessing: Shraddha Kapoor and Aditya Roy Kapur

Back on track

Salman Khan recently caught up with his Partner co-star Govinda and hinted that they may soon work together. The two actors allegedly had fallout after Salman didn't promote Govinda's daughter Narmada.

Ugly to finally release in India

While the film is awaiting its release in India, Ugly has received rave response in France. Kashyap had filed a petition in Bombay High Court last year after the Censor Board objected to the exclusion of the anti-smoking disclaimer. The psychological thriller is now expected to release soon with anti-smoking disclaimers.

The film has got a lot of appreciation in France for the story, the performance and the impeccable direction by Anurag Kashyap.

Ugly is a psychological thriller and an emotional drama, written and directed by Anurag Kashyap. The writer director who has received such amazing reviews from France is very excited for the Indian release. This is his first direction after the very successful Gangs of Wassepur.

Bad influence

Reality TV star Kylie Jenner has been reportedly banned from seeing pop star Justin Bieber by her father, Bruce Jenner.

The 16-year-old star's father is not happy with her hanging out with the troubled singer, who has had numerous run-ins with the law this year and was caught up in fresh controversy this week when a video emerged of him using a racial slur.

"Bruce had thought Justin was hanging out with Kendall, his 18-year-old daughter, with Kylie just tagging along and he was fine with that," a source said.

"But when he learned that Bieber had taken Kylie to Las Vegas to see the Floyd Mayweather Jr fight, he hit the roof and immediately called estranged wife Kris Jenner, fuming. "Bruce then phoned Kylie, forbidding her to date Bieber ever again bluntly declaring her doesn't want her influence by his drug use and bad behaviour," it added. — PTI

Holiday time

Bollywood star Hrithik Roshan and his two sons Hrehaan and Hridhaan enjoyed a day out at Disneyland.

The 40-year-old actor took to Twitter to share a photograph of the fun-filled day with his sons. The trio were dressed casually in jeans and T-shirts which they teamed with baseball caps.

"On the road less travelled you must sometimes stop and take a picture," Hrithik posted along with the photograph.

The Krrish 3 star and his wife Sussanne decided to separate and end their 17 year long relationship last December. — PTI

Lessons in making

Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara which was shot in Spain is now part of the syllabus as a case study for a course in marketing management in a college in Spain. The movie increased tourism in Spain by 65 per cent.

Spain calling: Still from Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara

Sonam, Parineeti patch up!

If the latest buzz is anything to go by, actresses Parineeti Chopra and Sonam Kapoor had buried their past hatchet and patched up at Karan Johar's party.

If we recall, it was on the same Karan's chat show, Koffee With Karan that Sonam took a dig on Parineeti fashion and style. But Parineeti made the first move and extended olive branch towards Sonam Kapoor.

A source says, "A few days ago at Karan's birthday bash, both the actresses caught up with each other. Although they had passed some comments against each other on the show, it was Parineeti who made the first move and spoke to Sonam. Later on, they were seen having a long chat."

It may be recalled that on Karan Johar's show, Sonam had said that Parineeti that she should stop wearing tight clothes while Parineeti had suggested that Sonam, given her talkative nature, should take up an alternate career that requires lots of talking. An onlooker at the party says, "It was graceful of Parineeti to go and start chatting with Sonam. Sonam too seemed to be enjoying her company. Their conversation was mostly about fashion and Parineeti even complimented Sonam on her various red carpet looks at Cannes. They exchanged phone numbers and are said to be in touch." We must say, that's really sweet of Parineeti!

chatter box
Friends forever!

Roll the drums, grab a bag of popcorn, and get ready for a dose of unlimited laughter as Romedy Now brings to you the most popular series, F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Starting June 9, the show will be telecast Monday to Thursday at 8pm.

The show tells a story of the six young friends living in Manhattan as they go through their own lives in the comfort of each other's companionship. Join the fashionista, Rachel Green (Jennifer Aniston), the perfectionist and overbearing chef, Monica Gellar (Courtney Cox) and the ditsy, street smart and funny self-taught musician, Phoebe Buffay (Lisa Kudrow) while they tickle your funny bone along with the flirt-cum-struggling actor, Joey Tribbiani (Matt Le Blanc) who gave the simple catchphrase, 'How you doin'?' a whole new saucy feel! Also, Chandler Bing (Matthew Perry) who has a deliciously sarcastic sense of humour and a curious history with a cross-dresser father and erotic novelist for a mother, Ross Gellar (David Schwimmer), Monica's elder brother and palaeontologist, who is socially awkward, almost always!

The show garnered critical as well as commercial success, sweeping away hordes of awards and a whopping 63 Primetime Emmy Awards nominations! Always in the top 10 in primetime ratings, F.R.I.E.N.D.S. will give you tons of love and laughter, and nothing else!

Personal touch

Mohammed Nazim, who is currently playing the role of Ahem in Saathiya Saath Nibhana, recently completed four years with the show. Nazim, who hails from Malerkotla near Chandigarh, says, "I am very excited to have reached so far in my career. I would meet my friends and audience, directly, in person."

Prior to Saathiya Saath Nibhana, Mohammed Nazim was seen in several shows, including Shaurya Aur Suhani, CID, and Aahat.

Caught in the rumour mill

Sidharth Shukla, who participated in Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa last year, was thrilled to be a part of the new season. This time, he came as a celebrity guest to promote his debut in the film, Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhaniya and was surprised at the rumours regarding his link up with Drashti Dhami. Apparently, the two exchanged some friendly banter on a stage show, which sparked off the rumours.

Samiksha is open to doing reality shows!

Samiksha Bhatnagar Samiksha Bhatnagar, who is currently seen as Mitali in Balaji Telefilms's show, Kumkum Bhagya on Zee TV, has quit the show, as she was not happy with her track. "It's unfortunate to depart from Kumkum Bhagya. I am serving my notice period currently. There are a few things, which did not work according to the plan. Also, the role was not as challenging enough and it never developed the way it was briefed to me and. It was a dream to work with Balaji Telefilms and I may work with them in future," She says.

"I have done a variety of roles till date and I love to play a very different and prominent role that connect with the audience. It does not matter if it is positive or negative. I am open for anchoring and doing a reality show too," she adds.

VICE Premieres on History Tv18

After creating the world-renowned Vice Magazine, Shane Smith launched Vice, a documentary television series with a similar content. History TV18 brings this revolutionary series to India. The show will feature ten hard-hitting episodes, dealing with cultural and political topics. Vice documentaries stand out for their content, off-beat style and bold approach, while tackling issues like child suicide bombers, corruption and China's one-child policy. Vice smashes barriers of decorum to cover stories on out-of-control political assassinations in the Philippines, the sumo/Mixed Martial Arts craze that swept Senegal and the precarious nuclear stare-down in Kashmir. Vice's fearless approach is incomparable on television, and showcases some of the scariest, weirdest and most absurd customs and practices known to humanity.

Indian TV Show wins gold

An initiative by Star India and Wizcraft International Entertainment Pvt Ltd, Saath Hain Hum Uttarakhand, a seven-hour long television marathon event for those affected by flood in Uttarkhand, recently bagged an award for the best television program, at the prestigious Broadcasters Abby Awards 2014. The television marathon that was telecast on the Independence Day, was organised with a view to strengthen the efforts at rehabilitation and raising funds for the victims of flood-ravaged Uttarakhand. Bollywood's leading actors and senior leaders from the State and central government, attended the event along with The Film Producers Guild, Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE). TV Artists Forum, Corporate Charity Trusts and several independent industrialists and donors, also collaborated with this fund-raiser marathon. The entire advertising revenue generated through the event was channelled to not-for-profit bodies that were working vigorously to restore normalcy in Uttarakhand. The award was conferred on the entertainment industry for its effort to show solidarity and alleviate suffering of commoners, who were impacted by a natural disaster.

Back with a bang

Pratyusha Banerjee of Balika Vadhu will soon be back on television in an episode of Pyaar Tune Kya Kiya on Zing. She will play herself as the story of the show is about a girl, who comes from a small town to fulfil her dream of becoming an actor.

Astro Turf
P. Khurrana

ARIES: You may come into some unexpected money. It is time to slow down and recharge your physical and spiritual batteries, so don't push yourself. Get yourself a bundle of movies to keep you occupied. Tarot message: Involve yourself in new project. Lucky colour: Peach Magic number: 52

TAURUS: Postpone work that requires concentration and physical efforts. Stick to your diet and exercise today. You need to pay attention to your health. Pursue a gentle sport or go for a walk around a local nature spot. Tarot message: Let things run their course and start afresh later. Lucky colour: Saffron Magic number: 50

GEMINI: A neighbour may gossip, so lend an ear, and hear something interesting but don't take it seriously. An authority figure is on your side, so use his/her support to your advantage.Tarot message: Avoid the tendency to criticise or judge others too harshly. Lucky colour: Peacock green Magic number: 35

CANCER: You may feel irritable today. You may be going to strange places, which can put you at a distance from your partner. Anxiety might be at an all-time high and you might even snap at someone. Tarot message: Avoid situations that may turn nasty. Lucky colour: Mauve Magic number: 27

LEO: You must not do anything to damage your reputation. It will be difficult to avoid conflict between personal life and employment affairs. It would be best to deal with minor issues that do not arouse conflict. Tarot message: Focus on professional issues. Lucky colour: Black Magic number: 32

VIRGO: Romance is your forte today. Small problems and pretty grievances will be resolved amicably. Keep your mind on the business at hand. You will be at the back and call of others more than you like. Tarot message: Try not to lend money to the strangers. Lucky colour: Crimson Magic number: 57

LIBRA: Trust your instincts. Don't listen to other people as they could have hidden agendas. Joint finances may expand. Your overconfidence can trigger wasteful spending, so be prudent with your investments. Tarot message: Do not leave things up to chance. Lucky colour: White Magic number: 39

SCORPIO: New contracts are likely to prove valuable. Communicating with people at a distance will be extremely helpful. Clear thinking is necessary. You need to be on your toes in order to take advantage of the opportunities. Tarot message: Strive for perfection at work. Lucky colour: Yellow Magic number: 64

SAGITTARIUS: The day starts on a jarring note. You will not be able to keep up with the schedule. Do not rush jobs that require careful handling. Avoid social gatherings. Tarot message: Do not take any chances, despite the assurance of people. Lucky colour: Orange Magic number: 33

CAPRICORN: You may have to be stricter with loved ones. A new career, overseas travel, a change of relationship, or a residential move is on the cards. Make your own choices, based on your needs. Tarot message: Allow a sick situation blow over before starting new. Lucky colour: Aqua blue Magic number: 40

AQUARIUS: Today, you will get money from unexpected source. Important business matters must be handled carefully. Be more realistic. Lovers will be in a cheerful mood. You need to be cooperative and willing to compromise. Tarot message: Be honest to your desires. Lucky colour: Green Magic number: 31

PISCES: A house or office move is unlikely. Control your temper when you are at public meetings. Your workload could weigh you down. Your private life could be disturbed as the Moon shines its light on your public life. Tarot message: Avoid being hurried and over anxious. Lucky colour: Golden brown Magic number: 60

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is June 9...

People governed by number 9 are compassionate, tolerant, benevolent, charming, and idealistic. If you focus well, you can be very dynamic at professional front. An influential person will be helpful. Do not indulge in any arguments. Old friends and relatives will pay you a visit this year. During the second half, Jupiter will leave your money house and move into your zone of learning and education. If there are, new areas of interest that you know could increase your skill set and marketability, jump on them. Any investment in furthering your knowledge proves to be extremely lucrative, so do not be afraid to take the time and resources necessary to make that happen.

Positive colours: Golden, red, white, yellow and cream

Select days: Tuesday, Friday, and Thursday

Favourable numbers: 3, 6, 9

Gems recommended: Red coral and yellow sapphire

Charity on birthday: Donate white clothes or edible items to the needy or at a religious place.

You share your birthday with Sonam Kapoor [June 9, 1985, Chembur], who is the daughter of actor Anil Kapoor. Numerologically, her prime number is 9. Her favourable numbers are in the series of 3, 6 and 9. She will be more successful in 2019.





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