When body is the canvas…
Their inked arms and legs are as interesting as their techniques of maneuvering the ball. While FIFA players display some innovative tattoos, we have our own tattoo brigade who would go to any extent to get the right one
Jasmine Singh

Kirat Lathyan
Kirat Lathyan

Once someone quizzed Hollywood actor Johnny Depp about the umpteen tattoos. The actor lifted his trouser to show the inked format on his calf, and said, "If you want to know the story of my life, here it is. My body is the journal and my tattoos are my story."

Well, going by that there are too many stories to be discovered. Looking at the FIFA players, it is difficult to find a single arm, a single hand, a single calf that is not inked. From Olivier Giroud, Angel di Maria, Jermaine Jones everyone sports tattoos.

Interesting lines and equally interesting figures reveal a story as Jonhhy Depp says. Even when guys have discovered the wrist as a new story board for a tattoo, their meaning gets a new definition everyday.

Bohemia
Bohemia

Deep thoughts

Those who decide to get their body inked are invaded with many thoughts. For some it is still a mark of a man, for women it is might be the 'being different'. For only a few, a tattoo holds a profound meaning. Kirat Lathyan, 25, a property dealer from Mohali, invested four years in getting four different tattoos and each has a thought behind.

"The tattoo on my calf is a logo of a supplement that I take, since I owe my loyalty to this brand, I got it inked on my body," shares this young boy who has a lion's face, a khanda (Sikh religious symbol) to flaunt. Now, the advertising companies know how to promote their product. And if you thought this is slightly weird, then you have to listen to Anmol Jalota, a businessman from Patiala.

More the merrier

Rishab Narang
Rishab Narang

Tattoos that you might want

Watercolor tattoos
Finger tattoos
Typography tattoos
Temporary tattoos
Black Line tattoos
Arrow tattoos
Vibrant-ink tattoos

It is not 1, 2 or 5 odd tattoos for this Anmol. "I have 23 tattoos on my body," he says as a matter of fact. Anmol explains, "The ones that I got done from Patiala were not that interesting so I got more and more done. Finally, I went to Immortal Tattoos and this where I finally got the best ones done." Anmol actually got 19,000 thousand likes for his tattoo. "This is an autograph by rapper Bohemia," he exclaims he shows of a heart inked on his inner lip! Yes, you heard it right.

This might sound slightly out of sync, but tattoo is an addiction. Like they say, you don't stop at one! In fact, tattoo artist believe, making a tattoo is a kind of meditation!

Rishab Narang from Immortal Tattoos-27 is pretty sure that if you get a tattoo done for a reason it actually changes your life. "People who get words scribbled should put a lot of thought before getting it done," says the artist.

Meaningful lines

Getting a butterfly or a dragon have probably lost their pull, so now you see people getting quotations and sermons inked on their body. "Miles to go before I sleep is all-time favourite quote. Actor-singer Navraj Hans brings in a different take. "My father had Ek Omkar tattooed, something that I always wanted. I didn't rush into it though. I took my time and understood what Ek Omkar meant, only after I was sure that I was ready to have it on my body. So I got it done."

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Threading the right path
Ludhiana-based designer couple Rimple and Harpreet Narula is ready to debut at the India Couture Week
Ashima S Batish

A creation by the designers
A creation by the designers

They detest the definition of bling in the context of Indian couture. They even hate the claimed-to-be-luxe-wear when it is all fabric and no embroidery. The middle path of playing safe, using just as much glitter that doesn't look clutter, is also not what they follow. In that case, Rimple and Harpreet Narula, the designer couple, pave their own path and mark their own milestones. In the past 15 years of their fashion designing career, only zardosi and other allied embroideries have lent beauty to their creations. "Even when the use of Swarovski and crystals became an unsaid rule in the fashion industry, we stuck to Indian embroideries and that sums up bling for us," says Rimple, who is excited about making a debut at the India Couture Week 2014 on July 20. With less than a fortnight left for their show, the couple is neck deep in work. Work that includes much more than re-touches to the 25 creations they will present at the fashion week. "Anything to do with couture has to have elements of drama," Harpreet chips in. So, they will have vocals by Murad Ali and the sets will have ample of visual effects, largely influences from the landscape of North West Frontier Province. And that is from where the couple has derived inspiration for their collection. "Desert, sand, stones, nomadic tribes, ….you will spot a bit of everything in our collection." In tandem is the colour scheme — ivory, beige, black and gold, used in abundance. Other adopted elements are crochet work, laser cut, Islamic art and metal coins. The silhouettes comprise long cloaks, jackets, capes, skirts, pants, lehengas…. “All that can be a part of a couture collection will be there.” Tulle, silk and brocade are the fabrics they have used.

It might be their first time at a major couture week, but the designer couple has become quite popular for their designs and aesthetics. It's not for nothing they retail and sell well through stores in Hong Kong, London and Dubai. "In fact, Dubai is our second home. People love our designs there," says Rimple. Beginning from Ludhiana, where they opened their first flagship store, the couple has come a long way. They might have shifted their base to Delhi now, but they enjoy maximum clientele from Ludhiana. Both Rimple and Harpreet have no professional qualification in fashion designing. "Yet, what has driven us is our love for designing and working with Indian embroideries, zardosi in specific." She calls herself an artist at heart and even for her husband, the stance doesn't change, only she rates him better. "We are totally involved in our work. Even the photographs of our creations are clicked by Harpreet." Besides the collection, the show will also witness a preview of their accessories, boho bags, neck and head pieces. For this economic honours graduate, demand will only outdo supply in the fashion industry, if design aesthetics are in place.

ashima@tribunemail.com

Carrying forward her kahani…
After the success of Bobby Jasoos, Vidya Balan is ready for her next—Hamari Adhoori Kahani
Amarjot Kaur

Here's raising a toast to the woman who single-handedly heralded a new era in Bollywood, which borders along the lines of parallel cinema and blends seamlessly into the commercial cult. For the kind of films that hit you without hurting, from the actor who acts without acting, there is much more that defines Vidya Balan as we find out during our conversation with her on Airtel talk to Vidya Balan.

"I have always wanted to become an actor and I have struggled too hard to become one. Without having a Godfather in the industry, it was difficult to get through. But I have received more love from the industry than I expected," she begins. Vidya shares that her first was a Bengali film and her journey from regional cinema to Bollywood has been exceptionally good. Meanwhile, when she is quizzed on how she liked playing several characters in her recently released film, Bobby Jasoos, which has garnered a good score on the box office, Vidya shares that she thoroughly enjoyed the film.

"My favourite character that I played in the Bobby Jasoos is the one where I play a jyotshi (an astrologer), which I think was very dramatic, given the look and when I saw the film I think, I looked the funniest in that character," she says. However, she also maintains that the scariest role that she has ever played was in the film, Bhool Bhulaiya. "When I was acting in the film I didn't realise that my character, Manjulika, was so scary. I had chills running down my spine when I saw the film," she laughs.

Vidya, who got married a year-and-a-half ago, loves to travel. "I think travelling is the best way to detox from work," she says while spilling the beans and telling us about her next acting venture. Vidya will now be seen in the film titled Hamari Adhoori Kahani and is busy shooting for it!

amarjot@tribunemail.com

the ‘in’ side
Age-proof your abode
Simple changes to an elderly couple’s home can make it a peaceful haven
Renu Soni

The traditional joint family set-up is on the decline and nuclear families are dominating today. When children leave their nest and fly, parents are left with each other's company. With health, family and financial issues looming over their heads, living in a comfortable, safe and functional home should become the top priority. Here are a few pointers on how to do it.

No skidding

Anti-skid mats under rugs should be placed where stone or tiled flooring is present. Safe, anti-skid floor tiles or laminate floorings are also good flooring options.

Light it up

Well-lit interiors minimise the chances of an elderly person bumping into something in a dark room; switches can be difficult to locate sometimes. The solution - illuminated light switches or ideally, sensor switches. Install under-cabinet lights in the kitchen and table lamps with bright bulbs to read. Adding a three-way switch by the bed to operate room lights helps. Installing easy-to-operate invertors/generators and maintaining them too is an absolute must. Make sure there are night lights in the bathroom and the kitchen area for safety.

Get cozy

Beds should be easy to get into - not too high or overly soft. Chairs should have arms and not be too low, in order for someone to easily rise out of their sitting position. Pointy edges on tables and countertops can cause bruising when not navigated properly. So, avoid purchasing furniture with any sharp edges.

Safe bath

Higher toilets in the bathroom present added safety and comfort. Towels look beautiful folded and hung neatly on a pretty towel bar, but the towel bar can be dangerous if used to grab in order to prevent a fall. Installing grab bars becomes essential for the shower and the toilet area. For the bath and the sink, use taps that are temperature controlled.

Lower down

Climbing on the top of chairs and ladders can be dangerous. Keep kitchen essentials in lower cabinets. Drapes and shades are a necessity for privacy, but they must be simple to manoeuvre. Place heavy drapery on a corded track for effortless opening and closing. Blinds and shades should have cords that do not tangle. Consider remote systems that will open and close window treatments with the push of a button.

Colour code

When choosing a paint colour, think happy, but not too bright. Neutral colours work well in warm and creamy tones.

Memory lane

Place your memories on the walls to reminisce as you sit in your favourite spot. Have a gallery wall of photos of friends and family. Place vacation finds on wall shelves or in a pretty display case. Show off your years of books that you have collected and enjoyed in a bookcase. Have fun making a collage of family photos to frame and hang on the wall.

More access

Show off your many years of fun. Pick cushions and throws in favourite colours that add cheer to the décor. Pick out some bright-coloured cushions to add to the sofa.

Mind game

Memory boards help keep the mind alive. Place attractive fabric-covered bulletin boards in the kitchen and bedroom to make sure important dates are not forgotten.

Be secure

Add emergency alert systems in the bedrooms, bathrooms and kitchen for added peace of mind as well as videophone entry system.

Yes, go ahead and adopt this way of living, but more importantly, keep the mind active and live life to the fullest!

(Soni is a Chandigarh-based interior decorator)

Doc Talk
Tooth & nail!
Dr Ankur Dixit

'Could my smile be brighter?' or 'Is it possible for me to get my discoloured, (mis-shaped, chipped or crooked) teeth to look good?'...these are oft-asked questions. Thanks to the wonders of modern cosmetic dentistry, not only is it possible but in many cases quick, painless and surprisingly affordable! Here are a few facts.

nBleaching lightens teeth that have been stained or discoloured by food and age or darkened as a result of injury. There are two ways to professionally bleach teeth; in the clinic or at home. This process can take one to six weeks.

nBonding involves applying a tooth-coloured material called composite resin to the surface of your chipped, broken or discoloured teeth. The composite resin can also fill in gaps between your teeth and protect roots that are exposed due to gum recession. The entire procedure is virtually painless and is usually completed in one visit. However, complex cases may require several appointments.

nPorcelain veneers are thin, custom-made, tooth-coloured shells that cover the front of your teeth. Once applied, they correct or camouflage mal-aligned, poorly shaped, damaged or discoloured teeth.

nIf your teeth are a bit overcrowded or uneven, they can be slightly contoured in a procedure called enamel shaping. For instance, a tooth looks much longer than the rest, some enamel can be removed and your tooth can be reshaped. The process is called coronoplasty and is usually quick and painless.

nRecent advances in orthodontic treatment, such as less visible/tooth coloured brackets and wires, now make straightening crooked teeth more palatable for many adults. How long you'll have to wear them depends on the severity of your problem, the health of your teeth, gums and supporting bone; and your age.

nA lost tooth or teeth can be replaced with dental implants. Dental implants are titanium fixtures that are inserted directly into your jaw and act as an interface between your jaw bone to support a dental prosthesis like crown, bridge or denture. They are much more secure and natural-looking than dentures or bridgework. Long-time denture wearers also benefit from implants by having their loose-fitting dentures secured to an especially designed implant attachment.

A confident smile sure makes a confident personality!

(Dr Dixit is a Panchkula-based dental surgeon)

TROUBLE SHOOTER
Boost the ego
Simmi Waraich

My brother has always been a quiet child. He worked for two years in Delhi, but could meet his expenses in his salary. Now he is back and hardly talks to us. Will he ever live a normal life?

Bharati Singh, Karnal.

Sometimes, one needs a detailed evaluation in such cases where a psychologist does some tests and a psychiatrist takes a detailed interview. One needs to see what he is feeling. Involve him in normal conversations.

Assess it right

My daughter is poor in studies. She writes very slowly and takes a long time to complete work. I am strict with her because one needs to study in life. She has no friends. She also can't concentrate on work.

Aditi Sharma, Panchkula

She needs a proper assessment, which can be done at The Child Guidance Clinic of Department of Psychiatry of the Medical College, Sector 32, Chandigarh, or in PGI where a test for learning disabilities is conducted. It can also be done by a private psychologist who is trained. Next, get an assessment done by a psychiatrist for Attention Deficit Disorder and low self-esteem. Regular counselling helps as each time a review can be done and a plan made for the next week. Also try and listen to her.

(Waraich is a Chandigarh-based consultant psychiatrist)

Par Excellence
Try different grips for putting
Jesse Grewal

There are a few options for a grip change if you happen to be a poor or inconsistent putter. Inconsistency during putting occurs when there is an excessive usage of the small muscles - the hands and the forearms. A good putting stroke will only be rhythmical and smooth if the bigger muscles of the shoulders and the arms create the stroke. All good putters have great touch, which means great control of speed. Selecting a line is completely dependent on the speed at which the ball is stroked. Therefore, getting the speed correct is one of the most important components to good putting. Jerky strokes happen when the putter is gripped in the fingers, which triggers an action or stroke dominated by the small muscles. In last week's article I explained the method of the most commonly used putting grip - the reverse overlap.

A variation of the reverse overlap is a grip recommended by The Harold Swash Putting School. In the reverse overlap the grip in the left hand is in the palm but the grip with the right hand still happens to be in the fingers (for right-handed golfers). Extend the left index finger along the shaft of the putter (picture 1) and place the right hand higher on the putter so that the fleshy portion below the right thumb fits around the left thumb (picture 2). The fingers of the right hand would be on top of the fingers of the left hand. The middle finger of the right hand would sit on the middle finger of the left hand. With this grip the putter is purely in the palms and the bigger muscles would be used to stroke the putt. This grip is great on fast greens, but does have problems on very slow greens as one requires to add some small muscle speed.

Other variations are a cross-handed grip where the left hand is lower than the right hand (picture 3) and the claw (picture 4). Both these reduce the work of the right hand, which tends to flip the putter at impact leading to inconsistent putting.

(Grewal has coached several national champions and professionals apart from being coach of the Indian golf team for the Eisenhower Cup (World Cup) in 2008. He is currently the Director of National Golf Academy of India and CGA Hero Honda Golf Academy. If you have any queries get in touch with him at parexcellence@tribunemail.com

Master Chef
Creamy & crunchy
Akhtar

The sugar-free Blueberry Yogurt is a treat for all those who are health conscious. A perfect blend of cream, corn flakes, fresh blueberries and chocolate, this is sure to give a refreshing feel this season. With the monsoon season on a high, enjoying a martini glass full of blueberry yogurt is sure to add to the joy of a perfect monsoon dessert.

Blueberry Yogurt

Portions: 10

Ingredients

Cheese Mascarpone............................... 60 gms
Cream elle et vire.................................. 60 gms
Blueberry............................................. 50 gms
Cornflakes all bran................................. 10 gms
Sugar free............................................ 1 tbsp

Method

Thoroughly mix the mascarpone cheese with the yogurt until it becomes smooth; now add 1 tbsp of sugar free and about 20 gms of crushed blueberries. The next step is mixing the sugar-free with the corn flakes in order to make them crisp and crunchy. For the purpose of plating, pour your mixture in a Martini glass followed by a layer of crisp cornflakes and garnish it with the remaining blueberries as also sugar- free chocolate.

Freeze the dessert for 10-15 minutes at -10 degree for a perfect cold and crunch sugar free serving.

(Chef Akhtar is a Chandigarh-based culinary expert)

STAR TRACK
Alia’s brave choice

Alia Bhatt and Varun Dhawan
Team up: Alia Bhatt and Varun Dhawan

After proving herself as an actor in Highway, Alia Bhatt wants her future film choices to be equally brave and varied.

Alia, who is the daughter of Mahesh Bhatt, had a tailor-made entry into Bollywood with Karan Johar's hit Student of the Year.

The 21-year-old actor, however, impressed critics in her subsequent outings in Highway and Two States.

In her fourth film, Alia plays a gusty heroine, who is a woman of today.

"Kavya (her character) is very fiery and lively girl. She wears her heart on her sleeves. Coming from a small place, she holds her values dear but she is a woman of today. She has a strong opinion. This is why she is the one who is carrying the hero in the film's posters," Alia said.

The actress admits that the pressure has increased now that she has three films behind her but that would not influence her film choices. "The pressure is always there. But I know that I want to do good films. I want to stand out with all my characters and I want to give the audience as much variety as possible," she says. She has re-teamed with her Student of the Year co-star Varun Dhawan for a second time for Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania. Alia says their chemistry will look good because they were more comfortable with camera this time.

"The chemistry is good because of the characters we are playing. Also, I think we were not as nervous and as confused about what we were supposed to do in front of the camera. It became very organic," she says. After crooning for Sooha Saha in Imtiaz Ali's 'Highway', Alia took to mike again to sing Rahet Fateh Ali-rendered Samjhawan in an unplugged version.

The self-confessed bathroom singer was not scared to take on the popular number. "I was not scared because I am not a professional singer.

I knew that if I mess up I would not get as much flak. I love to sing. It gives me a certain sense of peace. I am not singing to impress anybody and I am very proud and happy that I got an opportunity to sing this song," she says.

Ask her whether she would like to take it beyond, Alia says she wants to explore her singing side further.

"Definitely, I want to explore it. I was advised by A R Rahman to take my singing seriously and I am thinking about it." The film has been directed by debutant Shashank Khaitan and produced by Karan Johar's Dharma Productions.

Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania, slated to release this Friday, also marks the debut of TV actor Siddharth Shukla of Balika Vadhu fame. — PTI

Bring it on…
In Bollywood, you can’t afford to be stubborn or avoid experimentation all the time even if you’re a big star. History has proved that if you want to be different, you got to do different. We are not talking about intimate scenes but actors stepping out of their comfort zones for diverse roles. Let’s take a look

Risk taker: Ranveer Singh

He loves taking risks. Whether it is with his words, actions, choice of films or his dressing. And luckily it has paid off for him. He has experimented in all his movies, from Band Baaja Baarat to Raam Leela. He has a loud and vibrant persona which he toned down with finesse when he played a sober conman in Lootera. And guess what? In Zoya Akhtar's Dil Dhadakne Do, he will play Priyanka Chopra's bhaiyya and then her saiyaan in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Bajirao Mastani. 

He's different: Ranbir Kapoor

He is one actor in Bollywood who gets offers for most innovative and different roles. His diversity in movies and roles inspires everyone and he reinvents himself with every second movie. We say, it's a sign of a true actor. His most challenging role has to be the adorable dumb and mute Barfi in Barfi! It was a sheer delight to watch him. We are excited about his upcoming thriller Bombay Velvet too.

Tress stress: Shahid Kapoor

His significant performances have been in Kaminey and Jab We Met. However, he recently bulked up and played a lovable desi gangster in R Rajkumar. He even shaved off his famous tresses for a serious turn in Haider. He was pretty sad about it too. Let's hope his efforts pay off!

Racing ahead: Farhan Akhtar

He wowed one and all with his physical transformation and stellar performance as Milkha Singh in Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. Prior to that he had only played contemporary or urban characters. He also won the National Award for it. An award well earned!

Grey shade: Sidharth Malhotra

The young actor has wowed one and all with his intense turn in Ek Villain. He is convincing in the action and emotional scenes and rises above the flawed script. Although he wasn't really comfortable with the dark shades in the character at first. Previously, he has played a student and a boy next door in Student of the Year and Hasee Toh Phasee, respectively.

Emotional high

Actress Sunny Leone and her association with the popular youth reality show, Splitsvilla 7 is getting more interesting with each episode. Here she talks about the show and more...

So, how much are you enjoying your job as a host?

I totally love it. I have done a bit of anchoring before but this is something completely different. The creative directors have told me to be myself and it has been a fun ride all together with Nikhil (Chinappa) and the contestants. Being an emotional person, I have actually become really attached to all of them. I would be really sad when the show will get over for I am going to miss everyone a lot.

How romantic are you as a person?

I won't say I am a very romantic person but yes, I have had a fairy tale romance in my life. So, it was great to see these people getting attracted, bonding over and the heartbreaks.

Any tips for a guy on how to woo a girl?

Whether it's wooing or trying to get attention, I think honesty is very important. In this world, it's hard to find honesty, but I think it helps build relationships stronger and faster. And of course, the chemistry should be there between the two.

And how has Nikhil been as a co-host?

He has been an amazing co-host and it's so much fun to be with him. I have learnt a lot from him. In the first couple of days I was following the way he stood, talked and he briefed me much more about the job. We are two completely different personalities and I think that works in our benefit.

What about your Bollywood plans, what's next in store?

I am doing a film titled Tina and Lolo and after that I will be doing Mastizaade. Post that, as announced by Ram Kapoor, I will be doing Patel Rap. I didn't even know about it. He was excited talking about it and I looked like a fool denying the reporters (laughs).

Ram seems completely excited working with you; who are you excited to work with?

Some people are still hesitant to work with me because of my past. But over the time the notion shall fade.

Show stealer: Sunny Leone

Gere comes to Leh...

Richard Gere with Dalai Lama
Spiritual trip: Richard Gere with Dalai Lama.

Hollywood actor Richard Gere is in Leh, the main town of the mountainous district of Ladakh in Jammu and Kashmir, to attend to Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama's discourses. He will also participate in the highly venerated Kalachakra (Wheel of Time) ceremony for world peace that will continue till July 14.

"Richard Gere is here to get the teachings of His Holiness (the Dalai Lama) and to participate in the Kalachakra ceremony," an official of the Ladakh Buddhist Association, one of the organisers of the event, said.

Wishing the Dalai Lama on his 79th birthday on Sunday, Gere recalled that directly after his first meeting with him in Dharamsala 33 years ago, he came to Ladakh, which he described as one of the most beautiful places on earth. He described himself as humbled by the fact that he lived at the same time as His Holiness. Gere said he feels extraordinarily fortunate not only to know him, but also to be able to listen to him. — IANS

When Katy met Minnie

Pop star Katy Perry took a break from her Prismatic tour by having fun at a theme park. The Roar hit-maker, who performed in Miami on July 3, was photographed posing with Minnie and Mickey Mouse at the Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Sporting two top knots and red lipstick, Perry, 29, made playful poses with the characters.

Perry then took to Twitter to share the excitement. "Oh my God! I have the wifi password to the Cinderella castle @WaltDisneyWorld. Dreams do come true," she tweeted. — PTI

chatter box
It’s a man’s world...
Male hosts rule the small screen with their natural gifts and artistic flair

Hosting is a tough business, as not only do the hosts have to be engaging and humorous but also work together as a team. We take a look at some of the hit male jodis seen in the recent past.

Creating fireworks

Manish Paul had already hosted a good season on Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 5 when Kapil Sharma came on board in Season 6. As Kapil was established and had a hit comedy series to his credit back then, the two, as expected, created fireworks. 

Balancing act

They have been together since the day Roadies started. They have the balancing act of praise and criticism, with Raghu being harsh while Rannvijay helpful. Their pairing worked well as a combination.

Double fun

Although he wasn't on board for this season, Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 7 will now have Manish Paul as the host. With Drashti Dhami making an exit, it will be interesting to see Ranvir Shorey with him. While Ranvir excels in dry humour, Manish is all about antics.

Working magic

Having hosted India's Got Talent Season 1, it wouldn't be wrong to say that Nikhil Chinapa and Ayushmann Khurrana created a trend of sorts. These two guys worked their magic and played off their strengths. Their sense of humour too added a nice touch to the show.

Brothers in arms

They played their big brother-younger brother chemistry so well that they were cast in consecutive seasons of Nach Baliye. Their 'bromance' worked; never going overboard!

Babuji’s on Twitter, finally!

Alok Nath
modern ways: Alok Nath

The Twitter bug hasn't spared Alok Nath either. The veteran actor, who became a cultural icon as the Sanskari Babuji on Twitter a few months ago, is eager to be on the social networking site, and believes it's high time he joined in.

Why did you decide to join Twitter?

I decided it was high time. I wanted to, since December last year, but was perhaps lazy or just not ready. I'm excited to join Twitter, since people have popularised my character on it; I'm happy to finally be able to share the real Alok Nath with the world. The response I am getting on social media is great. It feels like there was a party thrown in my honour and I didn't get to attend it. So, I'm attending now, fashionably later than never.

What kind of response have you got?

I have got an amazing response. Since Thursday, when I joined, I've received a warm welcome. People are thrilled. I'm looking forward to engaging with my fans and friends in real-time.

What do you think of the social media network?

It is here to stay. This was never a part of my generation. Since we have been introduced to it, we have to get used to it. We weren't ready for it. A person born in this generation can't imagine a life without it; it's their life line. It sure has eased out many things. I come from a generation that had radio, black and white TV, landlines, and later came pagers, laptops and mobiles. So, it takes a little time to get used to it.

How frequent will you be?

Since I want to progress with the times, I'll try and post a tweet a day.

Tell us about your new show, Tu Mere Agal Bagal…

Thanks to Twitter, people realised that I have a funny side too. I did appear on Kapil Sharma's show and did a rap song later to shed my 'Babuji' image. So, when the offer to do this comedy show came my way, I was happy. The audiences will be seeing another side of me. I have another show on Life OK for Rajshris (studios), which will feature me in a serious role.

In the fast lane

Pulling out all stops, Star Movies has put together a high-voltage action-packed promotional campaign for the television premiere of Fast & Furious 6, the blockbuster hit from one of cinema's cult action franchises which will see a double premiere on Sunday, July 20, 2014, at 1 pm and 9 pm.

The channel has chalked out creative and unique consumer engagements as a part of the premiere's publicity plan, which is inclusive of once-in-a-lifetime chance for every fast car enthusiast to come one step closer to their speed dream!

As a part of their marketing campaign, the channel will hunt for India's Fast 6, wherein six of the biggest fans of the movie franchise, will be presented with an exclusive opportunity to experience an electrifying ride, Fast and Furious style. Winners will be gratified with a ride in the ultimate super sports car SLS-AMG on India's only Formula 1 track — the Buddh international Circuit. To be a part of India's Fast 6 team and live the action, all adrenaline junkies and speed enthusiasts will need to participate in an interactive contest on www.Indiasfast6.com. Fast and Furious enthusiasts will be able to sign in using their Facebook/Twitter accounts in order to complete a series of interesting tasks ultimately leading to the last and final task, which they will have to tackle while the movie airs.

Additionally, the channel will engage audiences with especially designed promotion on Twitter, wherein participants stand a chance to win limited edition Fast & Furious collectibles every day.

Shifting gears from 1 to 6 as the countdown to the premiere, the channel is airing the previous 5 installments of Fast and Furious every Sunday, with the first installment that aired on June 15 building towards the sixth movie. This movie festival allows fans to revisit their favourite action franchise featuring some of the world's fastest cars and death-defying stunts ever captured on screen.

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Little joy is to be had in company, so avoid getting involved with many social events. It will be the minor pinpricks that provoke you. Workers in the factories will cause a number of delays. Tarot message: Put your terms and conditions in writing. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 32.

TAURUS: Your card 'Four of Wands' promises an excellent day. If fatigued, take a break today. Do not feel guilty about taking time out to look after your well-being, both mental and physical. Tarot message: Delays are the only obstacle in your way to success. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 42.

GEMINI: Charm, diplomacy, respect and cooperation are far better attributes to employ in dealing with people if you want positive results. Tendencies for manipulation or revenge should be controlled. Tarot message: Do what is right and watch your best interests. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 65.

CANCER: Be prepared for multiple invitations to social events and gatherings. Turn your attention to jobs that give you an opportunity to make the best use of your intellect. Tarot message: Don't dismiss the advice of youngsters. Lucky colour: Royal-blue. Magic number: 36.

LEO: Now is the time to distinguish clearly between wants and needs. Your desires seem to have no end, but your bank account will dry up before your wants. Tarot message: Beware of depleting your energy or resources on others. Lucky colour: Cream. Magic number: 33.

VIRGO: A healthy competitive instinct can be harnessed for greater accomplishment. Stick to what you know and do your best. Do not let too many people know what you are planning. Tarot message: Versatility will bail you out of a situation. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Magic number: 64.

LIBRA: An urgent job can drag you back to the workplace. Make the best of the opportunity by doing what must be done quickly and effectively. A chance encounter with an ex-flame will revive old memories. Tarot message: You find within yourself a fountainhead of will-power. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 24.

SCORPIO: You should give a serious thought to your business. Decisions that need to be made, especially involving your career, should not be put off. Be alive to the danger of a minor injury. Tarot message: Focus on the better to mitigate the bitter. Lucky colour: Grey. Magic number: 54.

SAGITTARIUS: A major domestic purchase can be made with confidence, but will not be available till next week. Be patient, even though you want it immediately. Tarot message: Take limited risks with your capital. Lucky colour: Sea-green. Magic number: 60.

CAPRICORN: Put your knowledge into practice or learn how to do something better. Working women: be careful while dealing with the clients. Children will enjoy the company of their parents. Tarot message: Plan your life better to avoid delays. Lucky colour: Peacock-green. Magic number: 29.

AQUARIUS: Your card 'Fortune' predicts a good day on the financial front. Try your luck at a range of speculative possibilities. Sportsmen, especially cricketers, will have a good day. Tarot message: Be careful while handling issues involving property. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 61.

PISCES: Schedule a group meeting today. They can be both productive and enjoyable. If you aim for what you really want, it might just happen. Shareholders will find the day quite beneficial. Tarot message: Work can pose minor difficulties. Lucky colour: Rainbow-pastels. Magic number: 55.

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is July 8...

Born on July 8, you have a special gift for business ventures as you can conceive and plan on a grand scale. You have good executive skills and are a good judge of values. This is the number of wealth, success, leadership and effective organisation. Earth is the element for the number 8 people. August is the lucky month. Thursdays are their big days and they find good luck on the 2nd, 4th, 6th, 17th and 26th of each month. It's never too late to embrace your playful side. Youngsters will be particularly audacious when undertaking new initiatives at work. They will be dynamic and professional. You will touch great heights.

Positive colours: Black, Chocolate.

Select days: Sunday, Tuesday.

Favourable numbers: 1, 4, 8.

Gems recommended: Blue Sapphire, Diamond, Emerald.

Charity on birthday: Donate saffron-coloured edible items to the needy.

You share your birthday with Neetu Singh (July 8, 1958, New Delhi). She is married to Rishi Kapoor. Their son Ranbir Kapoor is also a big star. Astrologically, Neetu Singh has no scope to appear on silver screen except in guest appearances.





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