Pride & prejudice
Fusion mantra is a complete no-no for designer JJ Valaya when it comes to bridal wear. He would rather stick to traditional and timeless classics that breathe Indian essence
Manpriya Singh

He’s taken up cudgels against the very word that fashion industry survives and thrives on. Trends by their very nature spell transience and don't do anything to creatively excite JJ Valaya. The big boy of fashion can every bit afford to be condescending towards the clichéd queries. He thereby trashes any hopes of inputs on the colours and silhouette of the season and instead welcomes any conversation on weddings, brides and India, his eternal muse.

"I think I'll always have India reflect in my works," he shares while in Chandigarh for Vogue Bridal Studio, a concept that is a prelude to the upcoming Vogue Bridal Show in Delhi. India it is—be it the photography exhibition, Streets of Salvation, that is due sometime year end or his bridal weeks with India inspired themes.

Timeless beauty

He's ticked off the contemporary in favour of the classics and that is what brings along pride unparalleled. "A week back, a JJ Valaya bride came to me, asking me to rework on a bridal outfit I created 21 years ago. She unpacked them in mint condition and that was to be retouched for her daughter's wedding…To me, that totally defined and described what weddings are all about."

He adds, "To me, weddings are about timelessness. The idea is to create an heirloom." That philosophy should sum up any queries on the bridal trends. The only sneak peek that is allowed into his upcoming collection at the India Bridal Fashion Week is the inspiration. "The collection is called Nautch of Fez and it is India Morocco inspired."

Effortlessly creative

Already having made an institution out of his name and heirloom pieces out of his label, it is time to shift focus elsewhere. Coming soon is Valaya Home. "That will be designed by us and with this brand we take an aggressive step into the world of interiors." What will also be running through the venture is the same design philosophy of effortlessness. "If you are putting too much effort into doing anything then that means something is wrong."

Classic cut

Among the several sought-after tips by the bespoke bridal customers, there's one that he invariably ends up giving. Brides listen to this. "I tell them to control. They'll put on heavy clothes, wear all the make-up and top it up with all the things that they have on their hair…No wonder all the brides look the same. The key is to get dressed and balance everything.”

Amidst all the fuss and spotlight over bridezilla, there is a quite evolution instead is happening on the groom's side. The one he is mighty pleased with. "Forty per cent of my turnover comes from menswear. That's where the real evolution has come. They want to look like quasi maharajas."

The brides instead are opting for a fashion faux paus in the name of fusion. He puts the scanner on lehenga-gowns, wedding-gowns and all the concoctions of western silhouette merged with Indian embroidery. "Well if you really want a gown then go to Paris, because that is where they get the art of making it right. But getting a gown designed here is like asking a Valentino to make a lehenga."

The condescending tone towards the trends begins to make absolute sense. Till somebody prompts another weird thing called an anarkali gown. He laughs, "What? Let's just not mention it please, because it disturbs my senses." A classic is forever and trends for the masses. If you want to catch up on what's in, go elsewhere. That's JJ Valaya for you.

manpriya@tribunemail.com

For the sake of love
What does it take to portray a love story on screen? A convincing tale and lots of enthusiasm. Shirin Anandita, maker of Ho Jave Je Pyaar, has both
Mona

A simple, touching love story is how Shirin Anandita, the writer, director and producer, of Ho Javey Je Pyaar summarises the film!

From a jat family, Shirin did all that a village life entitled—right from milking buffaloes to making cow dung cakes. But her passion lay in directing films. While her conservative parents never allowed that to happen; in her husband, an Army officer, she found encouragement. And the result is—Ho Javey Je Pyaar.

Shirin is honest and upfront when she admits that limited budget did not allow her to go for huge publicity propaganda. Nor is she deterred by negative feedback to the film's trailer. "It's one point of view. A love story is bound to be slow….you can't show an emotion in a racy sequence."

As she describes the narrative - teenage lovers, girl terminally ill, a sad, soft, touching love story, one can't help but draw parallel with Erich Segal's Love Story. Shirin, who has also written the film, responds, "I did find inspiration from the famous book but I have made a conscious effort to make it very different to the one that won millions of hearts."

An assistant director for various films in Mumbai, Shirin is happy the way Ho Javey Je Pyaar has turned out, "I had a say only to an extent. My actors Zorawar Singh and Feroza Kaur Heer have taken it to the next level."

A love story it is, but Shirin insists the treatment is very different. "Where would you see a girl walking up to her granddad and say, Bapuji, mainu pyar ho gaya." How the couple fights, challenges that come their way and Gurnoor's (the female protagonist) illness is what takes the story forward.

"Yes, our budget did not allow us to do fancy stuff, but there was no compromise on the content. One of the songs was done six times for we were not convinced that it carried the right emotion."

The film is set to hit the screens on July 11. Shirin is positive. "I have no competition. Neither do I have a big star cast nor big budget to compete with other filmmakers. But I have faith in my film that has come out rather well," she signs off.

Big leap

Zorawar Singh and Feroza Kaur Heer debut with Ho Javey Je Pyaar. He is an established model who has walked the ramp for many reputable names; she is a model, actor, singer who had a stint in short films. Both are nervous as their first film’s release draws near.

Why Ho Javey Je Pyaar for making a debut? Zorawar replies, “I am a sardar and always had a desire to be in a Punjabi film. When I got the opportunity, I picked it.”

“In a film, one always looks for stars but how does one become a star if not given a chance,” asks Feroza. While Zorawar was nervy on the sets to begin with, he gained confidence over a period of time. On the other hand Feroza did not see the challenges that came with shooting a full-fledged film. The experience left them both enriched, they chorus. Well, this love story of Sartaj Singh and Gurnoor hits screens this Friday!

mona@tribunemail.com

On a road to self-discovery
It was a short role in Punjab 1984, but it was strong enough for the audience to take note of this new kid on the block—Vishwas Kini
Jasmine Singh

Deep-set eyes and a smile that reaches his eyes and lights up his face, and you can forgive him for anything. He slides in his chair, looking neither too interested nor completely drifted. He is somewhere in the middle, somewhere where he can hear and acknowledge everything going around him. This is how he has been… since childhood. But he's out of the cradle now, grown up enough to understand the complexities of life and career, which has further added to the blankness.

Vishwas Kini, the actor who makes his debut with Punjab 1984, likes this. "It only helps me to discover myself,” he says looking outside. He doesn't complain about the mucky weather that forces him to gulp down one glass of water after the other. Once he settles down, Vishwas begins to talk and everything makes perfect sense.

Let's begin

I have always been a confused child, getting into things and then coming out of them. I was someone who could actually do everything. So, one day, knowing that my father wouldn't allow it, I told him I wanted to do theatre, acting to be precise. To my surprise, I was off to Mumbai and confused about what I would be doing. I joined Nadira Babbar's Ekjut theatre and on one of the plays, I invited Sargi (director Anurag Singh's wife) to watch the play. The next thing I know is that Anurag invited me and gave me a role in his film.

Short & effective

Vishwas has a small yet strong role in the film. This, however, didn't bother him. "After I heard the story, there was no way I could say no. Forget complaining about the length of my role," says the actor who started preparing for this short role well in advance. "In a film like 1984 the length of my role is less important. It is the impact my character makes is what matters actually."

Present perfect

The success of the film has definitely made a positive impact on Vishwas' career. He is getting offers. Though, we still don't know whether the length of his role will ever be an issue. "I am glad that the film is doing so well. I am interested in Bollywood definitely.”

Confusion remains… still

“I think it is good for an actor. It makes one do better. If I get settled in one thing, and I am sure about it, I wouldn't experiment.”

tune in
Come Saturday
Saturday symbolises fun. Little wonder this day has found a mention in all genres of music
Manpriya Singh
Brad Paisley’s American Saturday Night is an all-time favourite
Brad Paisley’s American Saturday Night is an all-time favourite

While the world might thank God when it's Friday, it's only by the Saturday night that the fever hits you. The number of songs that give due to the last day of the week and its festive character is ample proof of its popularity. Starting with the over exploited track by Whigfield, which clearly labels, "it's party time and not one minute can we lose…"

Closer home too, there's a deluge of songs with either Saturday for a theme or a part of the lyrics. Sometimes the boy, sometimes the girl, someone has to be struck with Saturday night fever, like in singer Indeep Bakshi's current sensation, Kudi Saturday Saturday Kardi Rehndi Hai.

Hall of fame

Notwithstanding the popular cult or the commercial image, it's a theme that has been dabbled with by musicians representing a wide spectrum of genres. Right from the melody dominated country rockers Eagles in their album from Desperado to Saturday Night's Alright For Fighting by Elton John. The rock song from his studio album has been done as a cover by several artistes and is popular for its lyrics too, which are inspired by raucous teenage days. The song talks of a night out in which there are plans to, "get about as oiled as a diesel train."

Moving on, there's the studio album itself American Saturday Night by country music artiste Brad Paisley. Let alone the album, there's an all-women band itself named The Saturday. The song Saturday Night by R&B band Earth, Wind and Fire peaked among top five on the charts and labels, Saturday Night's The Curtain Call.

There's a strong debate of vices and virtues that are associated with the day, the one that comes to the fore with Saturday Satan, Sunday Saint by Ernest Tubb. The title puts across the message crystal clear, Sunday's holy transformation doesn't matter, it's what you do the other six days that matters. The score stands apart by playing on the word Saturday without the usual association with a night out and partying hard. "Saturday Satan, Sunday Saint…Reading the good book, singing the hymns. Come Monday morning and he's back to a life of sin." Even Tom Waits' slow classic The Heart Of a Saturday Night breaks the monotony of stereotypical fast paced Saturday songs. So does Saturday in the Park by Chicago. It talks of a summer Saturday, "people dancing, people laughing and a man selling ice-cream."

Youngsters’ take

There's a Saturday Night by Bay City Rollers and there's the hit single Saturday Night by Sam Cook and there's even a Saturday Night by Frank Sinatra, as there is by countless other artistes. Shares Dwapayan Mishra, first year student, B Tech, Panjab University, "Saturday Night songs are so many that one version is often mistaken with the other. Then there are covers of one song by several artistes. Surprisingly, Saturday night songs, these days, are not as popular with listeners as they are with makers." He adds, "I personally like the very commercial Saturday Saturday from the upcoming film Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania." Can we blame the hijack on the commercial genres? The song Saturday by Rebecca Black and Dave Days, once again joins the songs that reinforce the association of Saturday night and partying all night. Friday has been hijacked by the box-office; it's only fair that Saturday stands reserved for music.

manpriya@tribunemail.com

Doc Talk
Best foot forward
Don't let foot infections hinder your monsoon fun. Follow these simple foot-care tips for happy feet
Dr Sukhdeep Kaur

Prevention is better than cure. Getting drenched in rain is always fun, but it happens to affect your feet the most. Washing away the dirt with water doesn't wash away the germs; in fact, wet feet and shoes invite innumerable infections:

Uninvited guests

Fungal infections: These are aggravated due to wet feet, closed footwear, heat and humidity through the day. This infection leads to redness, itching and scaling of toes and spaces between them.

Athlete's Foot: Crinkled skin and brittle toenails can cause a disease called Athlete's Foot. This is seen more commonly in men, as they wear closed footwear. There is redness, itching, discolouration and scaling of toe spaces; the nails also become discoloured and brittle. This condition is very common in this season, as we tend to walk in wet footwear all day.

Smelly feet: That's another common problem in the monsoon, mainly due to damp weather. This in turn leads to bacterial infections, which cause foot odour. The solution to smelly feet is to wash your legs and feet thoroughly with soap and water. Soaking your feet in water with a few drops of lemon and vinegar kills the bacteria that causes foot odour. Potassium Permanganate or a few drops of Dettol can act as effective germicides. Pat dry with a clean, soft towel and ensure your feet and the spaces between your toes are dry.

Soft, macerated skin: This is caused due to prolonged wetness. Your sole's skin and the sides of your toes become soggy and pale, and can easily be peeled off. This happens due to prolonged use of closed footwear. The solution to this is to ensure dry feet. Antifungal dusting powders during the day and creams during the night work wonders. For dead skin, a nice pedicure once a month can help. Foot creams should be applied on the feet at night. Keep a pair of sandals in the office, so your feet are not tortured through the day in closed footwear. Avoid leather; choose rubber or polyester soles/heels to prevent skin allergies.

Monsoon dos and don'ts

  • Grab the right footwear. If you're wearing a short skirt, flats, crocs and flip-flops are ideal, as they are made of rubber, are easily dryable, washable, easy to maintain and are available in fabulous colours like hot pink and navy blue. Avoid heels during the rainy season.
  • Don't keep wet footwear under the bed or inside the foot rack, as they can breed bacteria. Keep them under the sun and let them dry thoroughly.
  • Increase your feet's blood circulation by putting them up while sitting or lying down. Don't sit cross-legged for long. Avoid smoking. Wear the right foot size and avoid tight, closed footwear.

Home remedies for infections

  • Apply a paste of Henna (mehendi) leaves between the toe spaces and leave it to dry.
  • A paste of turmeric — well known for antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties — can be applied around the toes to prevent fungal infections.
  • Mint-based scrubs and creams work wonders for this season, as mint is a natural deodorant and antiseptic.
  • Basil-based foot packs are ideal, as they are non-greasy.

(Dr Kaur is a Chandigarh-based dermatologist)

green thumb
Cut to size
Cutting is one of the best methods to multiply plants
satish narula

The monsoon will be weak this year and any prediction of showers is welcome by gardeners. One thing more, it is not necessary that there should be rain all the time to have a lush garden. What matters more is the humidity level, which should be up.

At the same time the temperature should not be more or that becomes conducive for the build up of disease spores.

The time is not suitable for planting bulbs. At times, in an effort to get an early bloom, the gardeners or commercial growers put gladiolus bulbs in soil. Due to high humidity and high temperature, there is a chance of damage by pathogens. Once the disease sets in, then it spreads in whole of the bed.

This is the best time to multiply plants. The most used and one of the best methods of multiplication, is by way of cuttings. Cuttings should be made properly. Giving a slant cut at the base of the cuttings gives better success rate as there is more surface area exposed for water intake. The cutting is made depending upon the kind of plant. In case of soft wood cuttings, the cuttings are made from the terminal growth of soft wood tissues. The cuttings in such cases are made about four inches long. Such cuttings are made in case of carnation, dahlia, chrysanthemum etc.

In case of hard wood cuttings from plants like bougainvillea, rose and most of the shrubs like Rat-ki-Rani etc, the cuttings are made about 10 inches long. The way of making cuttings is the same as explained above.

The normal myth about planting of cuttings is that gardeners, normally on advice of malis, add fertilizer in the soil. The cuttings have sufficient food stored in it till when it grows to form new leaves and become an independent plant. The sand or the soil media, in which the cuttings are planted, should be kept moist.

Normally out of curiosity, the gardeners pull the cuttings out after a few days to see whether roots have formed or not. This may damage the cuttings. In case where the growing medium used is pure sand, the medium is loose and the cuttings are pulled out easily these should be replanted. The sign of cutting getting roots is appearance of new leaves that mature after a few days. When four or five leaves have appeared and these are healthy, the cuttings could be extracted from the sand and planted in pots or soil.

Immediately after transplanting, the pots should be kept in shade and the soil should be kept moist.

(Narula is a Chandigarh-based senior PAU horticulturist and landscapist)

Sweet notes
Singer Parminder Guri, who has come out with his second album Dil Di Chabi, wants to revive the good old era of romantic songs
Jasmine Singh

No traces of outlandish tattoos. His hair is in place, and he’s dressed appropriately as well. Parminder Guri is a Punjabi singer apart from being a businessman. It is his 'business' appearance that dominates more. His heart, however, beats in rhythm with the sound of music.

In Chandigarh to promote his second album, Dil Di Chabi, Parminder, who moved to the US 15 years back, is still in touch with the songs from the soil. He has made a conscious effort to stay from tracks that use cuss words.

"I am a soft romantic singer, and I have sung songs that can be listened to by the entire family," he says.

"Dil Di Chabi released by Crescendo Universal has six tracks, all romantic ones, and I bet everyone will like them. The video of one of the tracks is already out. One of the tracks in the album is a duet sung by Shalmali Kholgade who sung Balam Pichhkari and me," Parminder adds, not before he takes us through his small story of 'finding music'.

"I cleared the mains for IAS twice but couldn't cross the interview barrier. I also taught economics at Modi College Patiala for almost four years. That wasn't what I wanted, so I moved to the United States. I started doing business with my cousin, but soon I discovered my heart beats for music," he cuts his long story short.

Parminder came out with his first album, The Triumph. He is also trained in Hindustani classical, which is why he lays stress on neat lyrics. "The lyrics of my second album have been written by Farooz Taraz, a popular Pakistani lyricist. I believe that the words have a lasting impact on mind and soul and I want all my songs to go right to the listener's heart," adds Parminder, who plans to promote the album in Punjab as well.

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Coming soon
Right perspective

An art work by Piero Della Francesca
An art work by Piero Della Francesca

The Chandigarh Lalit Kala Akademi, in collaboration with Alliance Française Le Corbusier de Chandigarh, is organising the screening of films, Birth of Perspective.

The Palette Collection brings together a series of films by Alain Jaubert exploring a selection of major works from various periods in the history of painting. Thanks to the latest techniques in video animation, the secrets of the paintings are revealed and discovering art becomes an enjoyable adventure.

This is a set of three films of 30 minutes duration each and is directed by Alain Jaubert. The films are on the European masters—Sassetta Giovani, Paolo Ucello and Piero Della Francesca.

The film screening will take place on July 13 at 6 pm at the Auditorium of Government Museum and Art Gallery Sector 10 C, Chandigarh. Entry to the films is free.

star track
Security alert for Kick

Keeping in mind the huge scale of Sajid Nadiadwala's Kick, the production team kept aside 5 per cent of their budget just for security. Security budget is for shooting as well for promotions that are being planned.

This Salman Khan-starrer has been shot in picturesque locations in Poland, studios in Bombay and real life locations in Delhi.

The film has been shot in old Delhi, where even walking on a regular day is an impossible task.

Salman shot in Chandni Chowk area and Old Fort area sportingly and the team managed to pull it off. To be able to shoot in these areas Sajid Nadiadwala arranged for unheard of security and at least four different entry and exit points.

The entire Delhi schedule was shot with 500 security people. In fact, except for studio shoots every where security was in 100s.

Salman’s fan following is huge. In fact, even for the Gaiety-Galaxy trailer launch, Sajid had an entire area cordoned off with more than 100 security guards. Sajid says, "We did not want to compromise on the locations, even if that came with a huge cost involved. In old Delhi, we have shot on streets where it is difficult to even walk. It was a different experience for me to shoot with thousands of fans surrounding the set."

My heart still belongs to Brazil: Dhanush

Tamil superstar Dhanush is 'heart-broken' after Brazil's loss to Germany in the first semi-final of the 2014 Fifa World Cup but says he will always be a fan of five-time champions.

The Raanjhanaa star took to Twitter to express his sadness. "Painful match. It's a heart breaking match. Heart still belongs to Brazil. Brazil forever!! No matter what!!," Dhanush tweeted.

Germany demolished hosts Brazil by 7-1 in last night's match at the Estadio Mineirao. — PTI

Collection box

The collections of Bobby Jasoos and Lekar Hum Deewana Dil have been quite dismal. The former has collected Rs 7 crore, the latter has netted Rs 2 crore over the weekend. This week they face competition from Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania.

Alia’s wishlist

Alia Bhatt knows that she has achieved a lot but she has a long way to go. She is flattered by comparisons with Kajol and Kareena Kapoor Khan but finds it unfair at the same time because they are established actresses. She wishes that every beauty parlour in India has her photos because that would mean that she is popular.

Look at Haider

Here is a look at the first poster of Haider posted by Shahid and Shraddha Kapoor online. The movie concludes Vishal Bhardwaj's Shakespearean trilogy.

Mother figure

Jacqueline Fernandez says that she has been very "mommy" like since she was a child and she is eager to get married and have kids or have kids even without marriage. She loves the freedom of being single at the moment.

Hide and seek
From co-stars to former lovers to ‘good friends’ to purely professional relationships, we take a look at some friendships in Bollywood

Real aashiqui

Shraddha Kapoor and Aditya Roy Kapur: They may not admit it but they have been steadily dating each other since Aashiqui 2. On Koffee with Karan, Shraddha was evidently besotted by him. It seems that Shahid Kapoor was interested in her but she chose Aditya over him. The duo is often spotted together.

Hush hush romance

Parineeti Chopra and Maneesh Sharma: Maneesh Sharma gave her the big YRF break in Ladies vs Ricky Bahl and they have been linked ever since. He even directed her in Shuddh Desi Romance. They both deny a romantic connection and say that they share a pure friendship and professional relationship.

Who’s the one?

Shahid Kapoor and Sonakshi Sinha: Shahid has been linked with Jacqueline Fernandez, Shraddha Kapoor, even his friend Minal but his strongest link up has been with Sonakshi Sinha in recent times. They hang out together and such but maintain that they are only "good friends."

Together forever

Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh: They are obviously dating each other since Raam Leela but have denied the speculations. They have even gone on holidays together, met each other during separate shooting schedules and been spotted all over the world, literally, and yet, there is no confirmation from them.

Denial mode

Varun Dhawan and Alia Bhatt: Their on-screen chemistry is evident and they have a connection with each other off screen. They have denied rumours linking them together in the past but we feel that the two would be romantically involved in the future. They make a very cute pair and will be seen in Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania.

Sunny tones down her sexy image

Sunny Leone is all set to be paired opposite Ram Kapoor in a comedy, titled Patel Rap. This is also for the first time she will be shedding her sexy image and doing a film that will be targeted at family audiences for a change. In fact, it could well turn out to be her first film with a 'U' rating.

Even while doing guest appearances in the so-called item songs, filmmakers made sure to give her a sexy image that she is known for. For the first time, filmmaker Devang Dholakia, who also directed her in Tina And Lolo, is making sure that Sunny is seen in a different light. Though she is playing an actress in the film, the film will not have her kissing or wearing revealing clothes. We heard even Sunny herself was very keen to do a family entertainer after doing many bold characters in her films so far.

Director Devang Dholakia says, "Sunny will look glamorous as she plays a movie star, but it won't be raunchy. You will see her dressed in casuals and there is not a single kissing scene between her and Ram. Their characters will share the Marilyn Monroe-Jack Lemmon kind of chemistry, minus the double entendres."

chatter box
Why so rude, Ronit?


Sara Khan
Angry bird: Sara Khan

Sara Khan of Dhoondh Legi Manzil got angry with Ronit Roy while shooting with him on a television show Adaalat. Apparently, Ronit was rude to her and passed comments about her acting, which is when she gave him a sharp retort. Ronit denies the incident.

Sara Khan of Dhoondh Legi Manzil got angry with Ronit Roy while shooting with him on a television show Adaalat. Apparently, Ronit was rude to her and passed comments about her acting, which is when she gave him a sharp retort. Ronit denies the incident.

Of thrills and frills

With a collaboration of Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah and CID, the audience will now be introduced to a new genre on tv- comic thriller. The series will feature Daya Ben using a gun and dressed in a coat as she tries to take over crime control from Daya. "It's important to create curiosity and intrigue in a show. So, this is the newest twist, wherein a longest running comic serial joins hands with longest running detective show," says Asit Kumarr Modi.

Noticing the absence

Kiku Sharda has not been shooting for his show, FIR, for a while now so the makers sent him a notice. Presently, Kiku has been keeping busy with three other shows, Comedy Nights with Kapil, Akbar Birbal and Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, but he has agreed to shoot for FIR soon.

A stitch in time

Kavita Kaushik aka Chandramukhi Chautala of FIR hurt herself recently while jet skiing in Thailand. She had gone to Krabi for a holiday and while skiing in the ocean a huge wave toppled her jet ski and she hit her forehead. She had to get stitches immediately.

Candid confessions

Pooja Sharma made her presence felt in the show Mahabharat. She talks about her experience, the toughest scene in the show and how she played the legendary character of Draupadi.

How did you get this role?

When I first got a call to audition for Mahabharat, I was a little skeptical as I always perceived mythological shows to be loud and I did not want to be in that space. When I went for the audition and was told that the makers wanted me to audition for Draupadi, I was a little indecisive. However, when I got my lines and I wore the costume, I realised that the show and my character was not at all loud and in fact, it was a very real and relatable character. Were you put through any training or preparation for the role?

It was more like an on-the-job training. I was one of the last few people to join the cast so there was not much time. I had a few meetings and discussions with the creative team, but the improvisation happened slowly and gradually. From the dialect and the accent to how to emote, cry, how to memorise your lines, the show has really been my training ground.

What do you think of Draupadi?

Draupadi is an extremely intense character. She is an immensely beautiful woman who possessed unmatched wisdom. Throughout her life, she had to face and overcome many struggles. She is an epitome of strength and dignity, managing to keep her self-esteem intact despite the trials and tribulations she was put through. I have learnt a lot from Draupadi and portraying this character has changed by life.

How tough was it to essay the role of Draupadi?

I did not have to consciously prepare myself every day on sets. I believe it is important to get into the mind of the character and only then can an actor do full justice to the part. I try to relate with every emotion by putting myself into Draupadi's shoes and then react, many a times I even forget that I am Pooja until my director says cut!

What was most difficult scene to shoot in the show?

The cheerharan sequence was the most difficult scene, especially because it was almost impossible to understand the psyche of five men, who were Draupadi's husbands and why would they put her through something like that. It was emotionally traumatic to put myself through reliving what Draupadi went through. In this sequence, even my co-stars broke down as they saw me deliver the powerful dialogues. I am hoping that this scene awakened many viewers and women over all to stand up and voice their views against any wrong doings meted to them.

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is July 10...

Your birth on the 10th day of this month gives a sense of independence and extra energy to your life path. The number 1 energy suggests more executive ability and leadership qualities. This ‘1’ energy may diminish your ability and desire to handle details, preferring instead to paint with a broader brush. You are sensitive, but your feelings stay repressed. You have a compelling manner, which can be dominating in many situations. Co-workers and subordinates will bring moments of worry and stress. Tax and insurance matters will need some attention. Sheer pleasure and enjoyment for those venturing out to have fun. Money position improves, as delayed payments are recovered. Your partner would be supportive and helpful. You will find comfort in the arms of your beloved. Your strong will power is your forte and you'll have no problem finishing all your tasks.

Positive colors: Golden, red, brown, cream, white, orange and purple

Select days: Sunday and Monday

Favourable numbers: 1, 4, 2, 7

Gems recommended: Yellow sapphire, ruby

Charity on birthday: Donate cooked, sweet, yellow rice to poor people.

You share your birthday with Alok Nath (July 10, 1956, Delhi), who played Haveli Ram in TV serial Buniyaad. He also made an appearance in international award-winning film Gandhi. Being number 1, Alok will go a long way on the small and big screen.


Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: The temptation to help out a friend financially should be discussed with your partner. A sexual relationship might have reached its climax. Talk about this honestly and you may be surprised at the positive outcome. Tarot message: Be articulate. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 32.

TAURUS: Your boss/partner supports you. Do not allow yourself to be talked into an erratic move. It's the right time to purchase something that adds to the value of your house. Tarot message: Don't be dismissive of advice. Lucky colour: Sea green. Magic number: 52.

GEMINI: Do not try to hurry jobs that require meticulous handling. Arguments may arise with your partner. Finalise plans early, as your mood is likely to turn to romance and fantasy. Tarot message: Use your instinct to get into the top circle of power. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 64.

CANCER: You draw 'The Emperor', so the day promises to be comfortable. Spare time for family and children. Women patients: do not neglect any health problems. Tarot message: Set the pleasant set of events into motion. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Magic number: 53.

LEO: An irritating co-worker can push you to your limits. Practice deep breathing and you can avoid confrontation. A desire to retreat to the comfort of your own home could be overwhelming. Tarot message: Must learn to accept responsibility for self and others. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 40.

VIRGO: The card 'The Moon' indicates an emotional setback. Stick to what you know and understand. Money problems will still prevail. Children: enjoy with your friends. Legal suits turn in your favour. Tarot message: Your determination to succeed will pay dividends. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 61.

LIBRA: At work, a colleague steers you in a new direction. Financial rewards may get delayed. Love stars are behind the clouds. A small celebration at home is likely. Professionals: you need a break. Tarot message: Work could pose minor difficulties, but don't worry. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 26.

SCORPIO: Get cracking early. What you need now is energy. You must push yourself harder. Be careful with money. This is not the right day for writing official letters. Women shoppers may spend heavily. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid in-built delays. Lucky colour: Mauve. Magic number: 47.

SAGITTARIUS: Your card 'The Nine of Cups' reveals inner strength and enthusiasm. Guys: drive carefully. Arguments may arise with your spouse or partner over money. Love life is exciting. Tarot message: Don't forsake a new learning opportunity. Lucky colour: Rainbow pastels. Magic number: 65.

CAPRICORN: 'Page of Pentacles' promises a progressive day. Health is satisfactorily. Personal plans are likely to progress without opposition. Issue over finances can cause upsets your relationships. Tarot message: Emphasise on spiritual needs. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 50.

AQUARIUS: Business is likely between you and your associates. Long-term benefits can be gained. You feel you need time to understand the changes taking place in your psyche. Tarot message: Balance in all aspects is recommended. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 62.

PISCES: Entrepreneurs will go through an anxious period. Married couples or those in love will find the day exciting. Students: success in competitive sports is assured. Neither borrow, nor lend. Energy will be expended on communication today. Tarot message: Do not divest assets. Lucky colour: Aqua blue. Magic number: 45





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