Serious tone, intense tenor

Actor Adil Hussain is happy that Indian cinema has evolved enough to have made use of actors like him, who do not belong to the six-pack bracket

As an actor, he romances the nuances of Indian cinema that derives absolutely no influence from the European cinema and as a teacher he advocates the sanctity of knowledge and guidance to hone raw talent. While most of us may remember Adil Hussain for his roles in Life of a Pi and English Vinglish, Adil confesses that acting is still a challenge for him.

"I would not be acting if it weren't a challenge for me and in the changing face of Indian cinema that finds within us an actor without having to make a six-pack abs, I am glad that the industry is evolving, though slowly, but steadily," he begins.

Spelling his likes for Indian cinema while backing it up with the works of Tapan Sinha, director of the film Nirjan Saikate, he avers that the Indian directors dwell upon the originality of their culture. "Come to look at Iranian or Korean films. They are extraordinary by the virtue of their character of culture that is not diluted with the European influence," he says.

"I love theatre and would prefer it over films. I am just tolerating films," he laughs. However, when it comes to acting as a subject, he calls for the participation of the government. "Yashpal Sharma and I would not have been able to study at the National School of Drama in the absence of scholarships that we were provided with, and I think that the government must start valuing art, not just in terms of a product in the bracket of consumerism, but for its tendency to influence the values and trends in society," he says. The actor will be seen in Z Plus, which is slated to release in October, Bombay's Most Wanted and Main Aur Chance. Adil's statement about the government collaborating with acting schools finds acceptance with Yashpal, who avers that acting schools do not only hone one's talent, but also furnishes one's belief in self.

"Acting can be polished, but it needs to make a person believe in their capacities," says Yashpal.

amarjot@tribunemail.com

A changing tune
Mona

Borrowing a folk song and giving it a lyrical makeover by Bollywood composers may not be acceptable to Babu Khan, but he feels the film industry can be instrumental in providing commercial success to folk singers

Babu Khan took up what his ancestors had done the best-carrying forward the legacy of the folk tradition. A known name now, Babu in the span of 40 years, has performed on different stages across the country and abroad, performed for dignitaries like state heads and collaborated with other artistes.

Just back from Canada after performing for a month, including a performance for the country's supreme, this folk and Sufi singer, comes to Chandigarh on Tuesday for a concert. He wears his star demeanour with pride. "Folk does not get as much importance as it did a few years back," he opens the conversation. But then he is for all that his art stands for. "Our songs are based on ragas and we sing according to the hours they sound best in. It takes immense labour and practice to get it right."

Babu's father, grandfather, great-grandfather—all have done it, and Babu picked it up when he was just eight. He trained under an Ustad before he came to stage. And, forty years on, he is still enjoying it.

"I have gone abroad at least 50 times. I have performed in Washington, New York and all major cities across the world. I have shared stage with the likes of Pt Vishwa Mohan Bhatt. I have even done a song with him," starts Babu on his list of accomplishments. Among the artistes, he is fond of Ghulam Ali. "He is my master too, like all performers of our country." As for the audience, he loves the Punjab and Delhi crowd the most. "One gets most appreciation from the North of India. Mumbai is good too but Punjabis love artistes and they are over globe and extremely hospitable."

The Manganiyar community that he belongs to has given some famous songs to Bollywood, including Nimbuda. Says Babu, "That's not just one, there are so many…they keep the tune and change the lyrics spoiling it all." But he agrees that Bollywood tracks fetch them some mileage too. "They get money, we get fame."

Babu has worked with Pammi Bai, Ila Arun and even appeared in Bollywood tracks. And, honours have come his way too. He is aiming at more. "A Padma Shri would be nice."

While he is cross with Bollywood or audience for not giving folk its due, he is grateful to Rajasthan and Indian government for extending all the support. "Vasundhara Ji and Ashok Gehlot both have been very sympathetic and encouraging to out community and cause."

Father to son

Carrying on his forefathers' tradition is Kailash Khan. He started giving performances when he was just eight and enjoys going to different places carrying his tradition. Did you study, did you think of any other career? "I did study till class sixth. But then pursuing music leaves little time for any distraction," says Kailash, who hopes to spread his music far and wide and go places.

mona@tribunemail.com

Hail heritage
Gurvinder Singh

Mrs India Globe Bir Kaur Dhillon wants to generate awareness about the heritage buildings in Punjab

People may feel beauty pageants are all about glamour, but it can truly empower women in many ways. Bir Kaur Dhillon chose to participate in a beauty pageant because she wanted to reach a point where she could speak and make an impact. "I feel strongly about saving the heritage forts of Punjab. There are so many places that are getting the World Heritage status, but the beautiful forts of Punjab lie in neglect and need to be restored. These buildings are part of the amazing heritage and culture of the state," says Dhillon. She has been campaigning for saving of Kila Mubarak in particular.

She won Mrs India Globe title last year and is organising the beauty pageant this year. She is also at the helm of two NGO's—Women of Women Welfare and Global Girl Power.

Standing 5'10", Bir is a marathon runner as well. "I have been running since childhood. Daughter of an chief athletics coach Bahadur Singh Chauhan, she says that she was so obsessed with athletics as a child that she used to wake up wearing a sports dress, wondering when she wore it.

Settled in Vancouver now, she runs 10 to 20 km three-four times a week and participates in marathons as well. She plans to be part of marathons outside Canada.

She had met with an accident and her back was injured to an extent that she could not move, but through grit, she is back to running long distances.

"I am planning to organise a heritage run as part of the beauty pageant to create awareness of heritage buildings of Punjab," she says. Talking about the pageant, she says any married woman from the age of 20 to 50 can take part. It is not just about beauty, but blend of health, beauty and substance.

In Ludhiana for shortlisting the candidates for the pageant, she says, "There are opportunities for young women, but once you are married, most dreams take a backseat. Mrs India Globe and Mrs Globe are there to give a platform for women to realise those dreams." 

World on a platter
Somya Abrol

With his new show, Chef Ripudaman Handa is set to bring you easy recipes of street food from all over the globe

He cooks, he dances, he's a large-hearted foodie, he's fit as a fiddle (add handsome to that) and he loves being in the news. Think he has stolen your heart at 'he cooks'?

Delhi boy, 24-year-old Ripudaman Handa, is all set to launch his new cooking show, Snack Attack—Firangi Twist, on Zee Khana Khazana. Come July 17 and you'll catch this youngster put his tattooed guns to sumptuous use.

Ask him what the show is about and you can hear him smile over the phone as he says, "It's all about quick, easy to whip-up snacks for youngsters. Each episode—45 minutes long— will feature three of my original recipes. The first one will be Indian, the second, continental, and the third will be a fusion of various world cuisines—our little firangi twist. We will also be tasting and experimenting with a lot of street food from all over the globe. Imagine being able to recreate the Japanese Nikuman or Greek Gyro at home! "

The winner of MasterChef India—Kitchen Ke Superstars (Season 3), Ripudaman also went on to participate in and reach the finals of Nach Baliye 6 with his long-time girlfriend Shivangi, who, as it turns out, will also be a guest on Snack Attack, reveals Ripudaman. "Yes, she's also going to cook besides me in a couple of episodes." The couple was in the news last year for their 'show of passion' and 'intimacy' on the sets of Nach Baliye.

Ask him if the audiences should expect any other surprise guests on the show and he says, "I've called all my friends from the industry to join me on the show. While I can't reveal all their names, I can tell you that comedian and actor Vir Das and filmmaker Sajid Khan will help me cook up a storm in the kitchen!"

Ripudaman Handa has shot 36 episodes for the show, which will be aired on Zee Khana Khazana, July 17 onwards.

Doc Talk
Shine, oil-free
Dr Vikas Sharma

It's not just the teenagers who have oily skin, for many people of all ages it's a fact of life and the problem increases manifold in the current rainy season. The sebaceous glands produce a substance called sebum, a naturally healthy skin lubricant. The problem starts when the sebaceous glands become overactive and start producing sebum in higher quantities than normal; the resultant secretions become heavy and thick in texture leading to the disorder of oily skin. Oily skin is typified by shininess, blemishes and acne.

The negative and worrying aspect of the oily-skin type is that oily complexions are especially susceptible to clogged pores, blackheads and build-up of dead skin cells on the surface of the skin. Oily skin can be sallow and rough in texture, and tends to have large, clearly visible pores over the face. Oily skin makes one prone to a number of skin disorders and infections like Acne Vulgaris, Nodulocystic Acne, Rosacea, Recurrent bacterial folliculitis, pigmentation etc.

Skincare regimen

Oily skin can be a challenge. How oily your skin appears can vary from season to season, week by week and even day by day. Oil secretion is influenced by various factors such as changes in hormones, stress, mood swings and even the weather. It's important to be aware of how your skin varies so that you can adjust your regimen accordingly.

Cleansing effect

Oily skin needs special cleansing with lukewarm water and medicated facewash to prevent the pores from being clogged. Do not use facial scrubs on oily skin. Avoid harsh products that strip your skin of oil and encourage flakiness. They can cause a reaction known as reactive seborrhoea, where the oil glands work overtime to compensate for the loss of natural oils. Avoid skincare products that leave your skin feeling dehydrated. They cause the upper layers of the skin to shrink. This restricts oil flow through the pores, leading to blockages and breakouts. To cleanse oily skin, use foam-based products as they dissolve sebum effectively. Cleanse the skin morning and night with a gentle PH-balanced foaming cleanser. When cleansing, massage your face well with your fingertips, using an upward and outward motion. Be very consistent with your skin care regime and never retire for the night without proper cleansing.

Use moisturisers

People who have oily skin are often afraid of moisturisers, worrying that they'll make their skin look more oily and shiny. That's not a good idea. Even oily skin needs to be moisturised to look its best. To avoid an oily sheen, choose an oil-free moisturiser. Vary the amount you apply with lesser over nose, forehead and cheeks while more around the angles of lips.

Sun cover

Oily skin also requires protection from ultraviolet rays. Traditional sunscreens can pose a problem for people with oily skin. Newer non-greasy, hypoallergenic and fragrance-free sunscreen gels are better for oily skin as compared to conventional sunscreen lotions.

Cosmetic touch

Choose cosmetic and facial care products designed for oily skin. Artificial perfumes, colouring agents and synthetic chemicals are to be avoided at all costs. Before applying makeup, use a day cream with active ingredients that diminish sebaceous secretions. Use powder or mineral-based cosmetics rather than those that are oil-based, and avoid cream blushers and eye-shadows. Choose cosmetics that are labelled as being 'non-comedogenic', which means they will not block the pores and cause breakouts.

(Dr Sharma is a Chandigarh-based skin specialist)

Hearty gulps
Somya Abrol

Don’t let the rain be an excuse to binge on heavy, repugnant drinks. Here's a choice of healthy monsoon mocktails to kickstart the season of joy…

There's little you can complain about when the welcome rain trickles down that parched window pane, as you watch the world go by in all its lush glory. We bring you means to perk up that seemingly picture-perfect moment. Fret not; we're not asking you to run your horses. Just roll your eyes around and find the recipe you like - each one packed with the goodness of fresh ingredients and the promise of tongue tickles! Above all, these are a healthy dose, as is explained in no uncertain terms by Dr Mansi Chatrath, nutritionist and dietician, Natural Health Care Clinic, Panchkula. It's time to just relax with a refreshing, health-packed drink in your hand!

Chill factor

Cool it with: Myth Buster

Sip at: Whistling Duck, Sector 26, Chandigarh

Ingredients:

• 4 grapes
• 70 ml fresh pineapple juice (about ¼ of a pineapple)
• 40 ml (half piece) fresh beetroot juice
• 1 celery stalk
• 5 ml (1/2 inch) ginger juice
• 20 ml (½ piece) fresh green apple juice

Health benefits: While this one bursts many myths associated with beetroot, ginger and celery, it's also a drink that's literally packed with benefits. The beetroot reduces high blood pressure and cholesterol; helps in calcium absorption, controls diabetes and most of all, is extremely beneficial for people with low haemoglobin levels. Celery, on the other hand, is known to cure acidity and destroy cancer cells of the stomach as well as the colon. And, since it belongs to the same family as fennel (saunf), it aids weight loss while beating the relentless heat!

Pineapple delight

Cool it with: Spineapple

Sip at: Brooklyn Central, Elante

Ingredients:

• 8 fresh spinach leaves, washed thoroughly
• 150 ml pineapple juice (requires about half a pineapple)

Health benefits: The father of all green leafy vegetables, spinach is proven to be beneficial for weight loss by simply improving your metabolism. And the goodness seems endless - prevents diabetes and constipation, improves skin texture, prevents asthma and cancer, whitens your teeth and gives you healthier eyes because of Vitamin A content.

Smooth touch

Cool it with: Avocado smoothie

Sip at: Brooklyn Central, Elante)

Ingredients:

• 15 gm fresh avocado
• 12 gm honey
• 15 gm plain yoghurt

Health benefits: Avocado, though rarely found in the city, is a rare fruit that helps cure birth defects (vitamin deficiencies) in infants. While it builds the immune system, it also prevents heart strokes and acts as a blood thinner. It is rich in vitamins A, B, C and K. The handiest benefit, however, is the prevention of bad breath! Yoghurt, on the other hand, is rich in calcium, which helps prevent osteoporosis. It's famous for curing stomach ailments with its abundance of good bacteria. It is also rich in vitamin D.

High five

Cool it with: Plum cooler

Sip at: Brooklyn Central, Elante

Ingredients:

• 75 gm fresh plum, sliced
• 5 gm lemon juice
• 1 gm mojito syrup
• 300 ml 7Up/Sprite
• 1 small sprig mint

Health benefits: High on vitamin C, plum helps build immunity by destroying the free radicals in your system, while keeping your digestive system in check. It's also high on iron, fibre, copper and potassium.

King size

Cool it with: Mango-beetroot smoother

Sip at: Whistling Duck, Sector 26, Chandigarh

Ingredients:

• 25 gm fresh mango, cut into small pieces
• 15 gm fresh beetroot, juiced
• 15 gm lemon juice
• 15 gm mango puree

Health benefits: Mango, the reigning king of fruits, is rich in vitamin A and high on fibre, despite the high calorie content it's infamous for! While it alkalises the body, its antioxidants help prevent cancer.

Rock solid

Cool it with: Pear, Basil and Rock Salt Smoothie

Sip at: Backpackers Cafe, Elante

Ingredients:

• 1 red pear
• 200 gm yogurt
• 15 ml honey
• 15 gm fresh basil
• 5 drops Tabasco sauce
• 1 tsp rock salt
• 4 cubes crushed ice

CELEB POINT
What a sweet, petite girl! 
Divya Dutta

Mom, rahul and me; that comprises my family after my dad…it is very close-knit unit. And very dependent on each other while at the same time self-sufficient too. We never felt the need for an outsider to complete us. Until of course my brother decided to get married.

It was an arranged match and I saw the girl for the first time at the engagement! My best friend sang a song for her...Mere Ghar Aayi Ek Nanhi Pari. I remember my mom used to sing it for me...now this song was sung for another girl! Ya, nanhi she was; sweet, simple and petite! It still didn't sink in though that she was going to be our family soon!

The wedding and the ceremonies went off beautifully, just like a dream. In the hustle bustle and running around, I didn't realise that the girl was going to be part of my family. I am so used to hosting parties and after a good evening of celebration, everyone goes back and we relax together. But this time, the girl stayed back and I felt strange to have someone in our closely knit house. But she held my hand and said, 'I know how close you all are. I'll only enhance it and make the grip tighter didi! I merely looked at her, feeling her subtle yet assured presence in the house!

A few days of awkwardness, a few more of being formal and polite! A few more days of knowing each other; a few differences and then ironing them out…till laughter returns! But still I was getting used to her presence, always a bit conscious of this new member. This petite girl around in my house; taking care, smiling and chatting with me!

I was so used to running to Rahul for guidance at each step, but now the girl was there too so I'd hold myself back. After six months, one day she was packing her bag for a visit to her family. For a moment I thought…awesome…I like her very much but that uninhibited chat of us three...I smiled. My mom had packed food for her while Rahul went to drop her; I gave her a big hug and said, 'Come back soon, you'll be missed.' But I still didn't realise.

Later, I went to Rahul's room but something was amiss; something was missing there too. And I realised…that girl! That petite, sweet girl…I was missing her. When she became a part of our close-knit unit, I never realised! I picked up the phone and spoke to her, 'Hey come back soon; we are missing you'. I heard myself humming... Mere Ghar Aayi Ek Nanhi Pari.

(Dutta is a Bollywood actress)

STAR TRACK
Let’s talk about films

Jacqueline Fernandez talks about her equation with Salman Khan, relationships, films, and more.

Salman’s leady lady

Salman Khan is a huge star and his stardom transcends everything. But I don't agree that I'll be reduced to being a decorative prop. I never even thought I'd get to act in a film as huge as Kick. Being Salman's heroine will get me the kind of exposure I had never even expected. In fact, when Nadiad (producer-director Sajid Nadiadwala) called me to the office I thought he wanted me to do a special number in the film. When he told me he wanted me as Salman's leading lady, I rushed to the Mount Mary church to offer a prayer of thanks. I was over the moon!

Apartment issue

I have heard the rumours that Salman Khan has gifted me an apartment. But where is this apartment? I've been saving up forever and now can afford to buy a nice car but a house is still a pipe dream. These rumours negate all the hard work I am putting in. It's baffling to hear that I've been gifted a flat and even more baffling people would actually believe that.

Relationship talk

I do agree that if you are in a relationship and talk about it, it gets you a lot of attention but for the wrong reasons. I don't think I'd admit to being in a relationship again unless there is complete commitment. I'd only talk about it if I see it leading to marriage.

Humshakals and Housefull 3

I have not seen Humshakals yet as I have been very busy with the promotions. Maybe I will watch it on television. Regarding Housefull 3, if Sajid Nadiadwala offers the film to me, I will consider it.

Roy and Bangistan

In Roy I have a double role. One of the roles is that of a filmmaker and my reference is Kiran Rao, who I think is really cool and inspiring. Bangistan is just a special appearance. It's more Pulkit (Samrat) and Riteish's (Deshmukh) film. I'm doing it because Karan Anshuman has written a fabulous script. Although he bashed me in his reviews when he was a critic, today, I'm happy to be directed by him.

Huma’s hot song

Huma Qureshi will have a special song in Sriram Raghvan's next film Badlapur, which is reminiscent of the music of the 1990s. The young actress, who is currently shooting for her film, is watching all sensual and popular songs of Raveena Tondon, Madhurui Dixit, Shilpa Shetty, Karisma Kapoor and Urmila Mantondkar as part of her preparation for the song.

The actress will be seen showing some sassy moves. Anaita Shroff Adajania will be doing her styling for the first time. In fact, Anaita was the one who sexed up Deepika Padukone for Dum Maaro Dum's item song. While the lyrics and song is getting finalised, Sriram Raghavan, the director wanted Huma to be acquainted to the music of 90s. Her song will be sensuous too as she is quite a bombshell herself.

Huma said, "I've always been a fan of the decade. I've grown up on a healthy diet of Bollywood films and now I'm watching chartbusters featuring Urmila Matondkar, Madhuri Dixit and Raveen Tandon all over again to get into the groove. My favourite is Tip Tip Barsa Pani. It's sensuous and classy," she said. She was recently in the news for a magazine cover for Femina where she flaunted her plus-size figure which she is proud of and comfortable with. Badlapur is a story of four characters that are pivotal to the story. The film stars Varun Dhawan and Yaami Gautam. It is a period film.

Erotic venture

Filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma, who has been giving one flop film after another in Bollywood, is now changing lanes and reinventing himself. As a result, his next film will have him explore the erotica genre.

"In the film XES, I intend to explore that facet of the human mind to its upper limit by placing an assortment of characters in six different sexual situations which will be all connected through one central story line. In an erotically charged atmosphere, each of the situations in the film are going to bring out the emotions of guilt, betrayal, helplessness, embarrassment, hurt and above all empathy. XES is going to be my first Hindi film in my re-invention of what all genres I tried my hand at so far," Ram Gopal Varma states. Down South, Ramu is presently making news for his new horror-thriller Ice Cream featuring Navdeep and Tejaswi Madivada in the lead roles. In Bollywood his luck seems to have pinched out as he hasn't seen a hit film for years now. Let's see if XES will change that.

When Bad Man met Yo Yo

Recently, there was a buzz that Bollywood actress Sonakshi Sinha would be seen in the upcoming special music video of Yo Yo Honey Singh, which is in the format of 8-10 minutes-short film. But did you know that the special video also features none other than 'Bad Man' of Bollywood, Gulshan Grover?

Yes, for the first time ever we will see Gulshan doing hip-hop with the star rapper! And much like his on-screen characters, GG will be seen playing an antagonist in the new video of Yo Yo Honey Singh.

The video-cum-short film has already been shot in Los Angeles.

Reveals Gulshan, "It was a surprise call from Yo Yo Honey Singh, whom I had met only once at the music launch of my film Yaariyan. His respect, affection towards me were reasons enough for my acceptance but what blew me away was the concept of the music video, scale, budget and the fact it would be shot in Los Angeles. And to add to it was Sonakshi, who is like a family. Also, confrontation between Honey and me will be like never seen before in the video. I think it will be a huge hit and will fetch response like films."

While Sonakshi would be seen donning a Jennifer Lopez (JLO) avatar apparently with jackets, crop tops and denim shorts, GG too is set to surprise us as trendy tycoon! "All three of us - Sonakshi, Honey and I are presented in a very stylish way. Stylists from London were specially flown to LA for the look of all three principal stars," he concludes.

Meetings at mid-night

Aamir Khan is having late night meetings at his residence in Bandra suburban Mumbai for Satyamev Jayate and PeeKay, releasing this Christmas. Since his residence is on the sixth floor and faces the road, people know that the lights are on and he is having meetings.

Gratefully yours

Shraddha Kapoor has been on a roll since Aashiqui 2 and her new film Ek Villain is also a big hit. So, she went to SiddhiVinayak temple in South Mumbai to offer gratitude to Lord Ganesh for his blessings.

Not in love

As Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania hits theatres, lead actors Alia Bhatt and Varun Dhawan have to keep clarifying that they both are just very good friends and have a good on-screen chemistry but are not in love with each other.

One for the record

Kick has been shot in really busy areas in Delhi and the crew worked with multiple camera set-up in various places around the monuments where shooting took place. Salman does wheelies and jumps with a bicycle. The production team wants to send the sequences to the Limca Book of World Records.

Song and drama

Salman Khan, Sajid Nadiadwala and Nargis Fakhri launched the song Devil-Yaar Naa Miley at a club in suburban Mumbai on Friday night. A fight broke out between the photographers but Salman calmed everyone down and was at his best.

Future Shock
Phone bling says a lot about you...
Nishtha Shukla Anand

A latest study makes some interesting observations about how people use mobile phone accessories. A research at Pennsylvania State University suggests that Americans tend to spend less on customising their mobile phones. Instead, their counterparts, the South Koreans love to accessorise their phones. They use charms, stickers, ringtones and phone cases to decorate their phones. The study says it's because Americans consider self-expression over how others perceive them.

On the contrary, South Koreans are keen to understand how they can fit well into social situations. S. Shyam Sundar, who is the co-director of the media effects research laboratory at the university has said, "People from eastern cultures tend to be more motivated to change the look and sound of their mobile phones than people in western countries." When people are bothered about how others perceive them, they invest in mobile phone accessories. The research essentially aimed to understand the extent to which people connect with their phone. "The more you customise your phone for aesthetic reasons the more it reflects who you are. You see your phone as yourself," said Sunder .

This research involved 400 American students and 205 Korean students. These university students were given a survey with 112 questions that would help identify how they perceive their social identity and their efforts towards self promotion.

There are many companies now producing interesting mobile accessories and all of us indulge in them. Yes, we usually buy the ones that seem to express our identity most. It's a great way to feel good and feel motivated. So go ahead and buy some interesting mobile accessories, but for yourself!

(Nishtha is a Chandigarh based technology expert)

chatter box
Destined for the screen

Having worked in many serials, including Gulal, Vir Shivaji, Crime Patrol, Savadhan India, Akhir Bahu Bhi Toh Beti Hai, Saraswatichandra et al, actor Moni Rai is now eagerly awaiting the release of his Bollywood venture Hate Story 2. Moni shares some of his experiences, his upcoming television ventures and much more.

How did you begin your acting career?

I belong to Bhadoi in Uttar Pradesh. As I was very interested in movies, I often used to visit Mumbai. I was at the shooting of the serial Gulal, where I came to know that they were looking for an actor for a small role. When the director Aziz Khan asked me whether I would like to act, I readily agreed. He took my screen test and I was given thumbs-up for that role. That is how my acting career began.

Are you a trained actor?

I would have thought of NSD or other training institutes had I known I would become an actor one day! I had never thought seriously about my career ever. It was only after I started acting that I realised I wanted to be an actor.

Did you ever feel you should have undergone training?

No, I never felt that because all this happened so suddenly. I am learning how to act each day. I follow good actors and try to learn from them. I have no time for training now. The only way ahead is learning while on the job.

Who all do you admire as actors?

I am a great fan of Manoj Bajpai, Nawazuddin and Pankaj Tripathi. They are all very natural actors.

You have worked with Ram Gopal Verma and now with Vikram Bhaat. Whom do you want to work with next?

I want to work with Anurag Kashyap. I have met him and he has also seen my work. I have also done a small role in his show Yudh. The scene is important though and I consider it like a screen test given to him. I am just waiting to work more with him now.

What is your role like in the movie Hate Story 2?

I play a negative character in Hate Story 2. It is the role of a police officer, who looks positive at first but then turns negative. The main villain in the movie has been played by Sushant Singh. My role is till the half time.

What are you doing next on television?

I have a new show coming up on Colors on August 8 titled Sapno Ki Udaan. I play an important role there. It's a character with grey shades; he is positive with his family but quite the opposite with outsiders. It is the story of two brothers and I play the younger one. — Dharam Pal

Back on the job

It's old news that Sunil Grover will soon be back in Comedy Nights With Kapil. Fresh buzz is that Sunil will not play his famous character Gutthi again, but Sumona Chakravarti's father in the show. He will play many other characters too.

Playing a teacher

There is a lot is in store in Star Plus' Saath Nibhana Saathiya. Now, Gopi will have a silent lover, which will be played by Manoj Chandila. Earlier, he played a negative role in Meri Desh Ki Beti Nandini. Here he will play a teacher to all Modi kids and fall for Gopi.

Split ends

Hunar Hali and Abhishek Malik fell in love while shooting Chhal — Sheh Aur Maat. Though they kept denying it, the couple was dating since the past two years. Apparently, now they have split. Abhishek has signed on for MTV's Splitsvilla while Hunar is busy with her TV show on Life OK.

Show time for Rohan!

After many other filmmakers entering TV, now Rohan Sippy too is working on a show for Life Ok. It will be a detective drama a la Sherlock Holmes, which will have finite episodes. Apparently, Milind Soman has been approached to play the main lead.

No green signal

After not allowing Sunny Leone to promote Jackpot on his show Comedy Nights With Kapil, now Kapil Sharma apparently didn't want to promote Hate Story 2. Usually stars come on his show to promote their films, but the makers of Hate Story 2 were taken aback with the refusal claiming that the film was an erotic-thriller.

Behind the scene

Harshad Arora has made many hearts flutter with his good looks in Beintehaa, but apparently he has fallen for his sister-in-law on the show! Harshad plays Zain and buzz is that he is dating Gunjan Vijaya, who plays Zain's bhabhi in the show.

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Be particularly wary if dealing with property matters. Get to bed earlier than is normal for you. Don't let dogmatism close your mind to varied possibilities. If an old friend needs you support, help out. Tarot message: Do not expect too much from others.

Lucky colour: White.

Magic number: 52.

TAURUS: Expensive plans will have to be held in check for the time being. Your mate will feel that you have been devoting too much time to outside interests. An optimistic and compassionate turn of mind will create a passionate aura. Tarot message: Follow your path. Lucky colour: Sea-green.

Magic number: 26.

GEMINI: You might have some difficulty controlling your emotions. Consider getting involved in charitable work. Agreements that have been dragging on for some time can be successfully negotiated. Tarot message: Avoid being hurried and over-anxious.

Lucky colour: Purple.

Magic number: 55.

CANCER: Plug away steadily in the background. This is not time for grabbing centrestage. Consider your course of action seriously before jumping into anything new. Tarot message: Make compromises outside and come to terms within yourself.

Lucky colour: Yellow.

Magic number: 46.

LEO: Improvement will continue in general financial picture. Business matters are fairly well under control. Overstrain can affect health. Your moods can be up and down all day.

Tarot message: Don't do anything at the cost of health.

Lucky colour: Jade.

Magic number: 29.

VIRGO: No need to make any important move. Conditions are too weak at the moment to contemplate fresh operations. You should not be too critical of co-workers. Children can cause worry. Tarot message: Don't reveal your plan of action to anyone.

Lucky colour: Peach.

Magic number: 27.

LIBRA: Aim at teamwork today. An accident can occur if you don't keep your mind on the job. A change of home or job is possible. Students: focus on hobbies. Do not take risk for quick gains.

Tarot message: Prevent trouble by taking timely action.

Lucky colour: Red.

Magic number: 35.

SCORPIO: Do not give into lethargy. Emotional people can change their mind. Earnings can be increased if you try. Deception from opposite sex is on the cards. Don't add to your debts.

Tarot message: Don't reveal your plans to your competitors.

Lucky colour: Ebony.

Magic number: 27.

SAGITTARIUS: An early morning disturbance can wake you up a lot sooner than usual, which will give you a chance to catch up with some housework. Your energy levels will be high today.

Tarot message: You will receive a useful tip at the stock exchange.

Lucky colour: Yellow.

Magic number: 44.

CAPRICORN: The day is going to be rather slow; plan ahead. Take advantage of other people's experience. Family will be much better company than friends this evening. Focus on meditation or yoga. Tarot message: Try to accomplish longterm tasks.

Lucky colour: Bottle-green.

Magic number: 32.

AQUARIUS: A financial matter that has been delayed should move forward now. Social activities that are offered will not be worth attending. There should be no special problems to deal with at home. Tarot message: Don't take hasty decisions.

Lucky colour: Red.

Magic number: 41.

PISCES: This day will be marked only for lack of activity. Business will tick over smoothly enough. Scholars: read a good book at bed time. You should finally feel your self-esteem rising.

Tarot message: Lack of confidence can leave you in losses.

Lucky colour: Forest-green.

Magic number: 43.

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is July 16...

The number 7 people are introspective, prefer solitude and are constantly pursuing the knowledge of universal truths. July is the best month for them. Mondays and Saturdays are lucky days. Get the best jobs done on the 2nd, 4th, 5th, 7th, 16th and 25th dates of any month. You'll be tempted to say what you think to a rival. Be prepared to say no to people who expect too much from you. Do not force your opinion on others. Travel will be beneficial but expensive. You need to take extra care of your luggage if you are travelling. You'll be very frugal and balanced; your vision of things will be elevated and you'll manage your finances admirably.

Positive colours: White, Sky blue, Cream.

Select days: Monday, Sunday.

Favourable numbers: 2, 7.

Gems recommended: Pearl, White Coral, Diamond.

Charity on Birthday: Donate vegetables to the needy.

You share your birthday with Katrina Kaif (July 16, 1984, Hong Kong), who is among the highest-paid actresses in Bollywood. She has also featured briefly in the action-thriller Dhoom 3. A positive Venus will establish her for a long time, but married life will be uncomfortable.

Delectable treat

KFC, a brand known for food and beverages, is now offering the same great taste in the Fab Five range of Rice Bowlz. Consumers can now choose from a delectable selection of five KFC signature recipes, including scrumptious Veg Strips, Masala Corn, Popcorn Chicken, Hot Wings and Fiery Grilled served with rice and spicy gravy. The range brings together many flavours to give KFC fans the perfect meal at just the right prices. The range is now available across KFC's 300+ restaurants at amazing prices starting at Rs 59.

Dhruv Kaul, Director-Marketing, KFC India said, "At KFC we are always looking for new ways to offer our consumers the best food and beverages at affordable prices. The new Fab Five Rice Bowlz is based on the simple yet relatable premise of having a mid-day lunch at an affordable price."

'KFC Rice Bowlz' aims at leveraging the strong presence of rice-eating consumer base in India and cater to both vegetarian and non-vegetarian consumers. — TNS