Black for the bride?
India Bridal Fashion Week has all the elements that make for a dramatic show-innovative sets, live singing, page 3 celebs on the front row and most of all—couture that defies norms
Ashima S Batish

When it is about celebrating the couture segment of fashion, it has to be more than just presenting collections on the ramp. Some drama has to follow and it did ensue-- in terms of sets, live singing as models strutted the ramp and a lot of Page 3 socialites marking their presence on the front row during the first two days of the BMW India Bridal Fashion Week. Here are the trends for the wedding season:

Dark and beautiful

The colour palate of the Indian bridal wear suddenly has a lot of black on it. The conventional connotations of the colour aren't bothering the Indian fashion designers anymore, who believe these don't even matter to the modern bride. If Tarun Tahiliani's show began with high-waist trousers and a tucked-in high-collar blouse, all in black, except for the gold embroidered kamarbund, young designer sisters, Gauri and Nainika used it a lot on modern silhouettes. The colour also spelt magic on long jackets by Raghavendra Rathore or long flouncy skirts by him.

New cut and fall

Gauri and Nainika got a standing ovation from the audience not only for their beautifully constructed clothes, but also because they attempted couture in a novel, experimental way. They term neoprene—lots of neoprene and bits of tulle have been used to render shape to the collection—as the fashion's best invention for several reasons. One it is extremely easy to try out new shapes with it. Thus entered their creations in straight, geometric cuts in black, red and white, the only three colours they have used. While many wrote off peplum as a fashion silhouette, they lent length to it to give it a new shape and then there were mermaid gown, hipster skirts with frills. The collection, which was all about cuts and structure rather than about embroideries and layers, had not an outfit with a plunging neckline, yet looked sexy. "Embroideries, plunging necklines are just not us. Our clothes are for the bride, who loves to party before her wedding, and each creation would suit the occasion," say the designers.

No surprises again

It all began with a surprise in store as the stage lit to introduce couture trends. You got the feel of wearing rose-tinted glasses as models posed behind the curtain and rose petals were projected on it in Tarun's show. Or, at the most, maang hawks, Mohawk- inspired maang tikkas, added novelty.

However, rest everything left you with a sense of déjà vu, especially the bridal collection. Only time will tell if Indian brides are ready to experiment with Gauri Nainika's collection, which in parts looked inspired from the couture shows of the West. Ashima Leena played safe as well with most of the designs, with the interesting twist in the form of the leheriya art of dyeing. Even the bolero jackets they added to the skimpy blouses were the perfect ethnic adaptation of western silhouette. And Raghavendra went wrong with his choice of colours for men couture. Pink is fine but with bubble-gum pink, he left a bad taste on the ramp.

Regal silhouettes

Tarun Tahiliani best described his title of the collection, The Modern Mughals, by sending male models in ankle-length anarkalis teamed with heavy, long duppattas on the ramp. Raghavendra Rathore set the contrast with his bandhgala and trouser-sporting models. The inferences for the interchange of silhouettes shouldn't be drawn from the androgynous fashion each time. If rules of distinguishing men's clothes from women's are being flouted, it's only because both sexes are ready for it. Attributing it to the fashion of Mughals, kamarbunds were a staple feature of Tarun's collection. Though the waist belt has been put to use only to accentuate woman's hourglass figure, with men, it served the purpose of an accessory. "Men in the Mughal era wore a belt to sport their swords," Tarun says while adding that kamarbund had to be an intrinsic part of the collection. Rathore's bandhgala kurtas and trousers, with minimal zari work, looked exquisite. He added the fluid dhoti to his list of signature silhouettes for men and constructed bandhgalas for women. Ashima Leena's collection, Jashn, boasted of numerous sharara kurtis, presented against the backdrop of sand dunes. The heavily embroidered collection had every ethnic silhouette possible for the Indian bride— from shararas, lehengas, sarees to plazzo suits.

The connecting thread
Every move you make, every step you take, I will be watching you…may sound like a stalker's anthem but not when it comes from your brother. This Rakhi, Chandigarh celebs talk of the protective role their siblings play in their life
Mona

Endless squabbles over things, sharing treats, long summer afternoons spent inventing games or ganging up against the parents when things went out of hand, a brother and a sister share a bond that's one of its kind. Now, if it happens to be an elder brother, add more to it…a protective figure most likely than not checking every move you make!

Bade bhaiya has a characteristic manner…remember Arbaaz Khan doing the serious, dominating, protective act in Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya in which Kajol played the younger sister? Well, this Rakhi, we ask actors from the region as how have they or their brothers have essayed this role in real life…

Protective bhaiya

Actor Jaspinder Cheema's elder brother Sukhdev Singh (bua's son) played the bade bhaiya role to the T. Growing up in a joint family, he was responsible for the girls going and coming back safely. He took the call where young Jaspinder went, with whom and when. "Kabhi kabhi hum shararat karte the to maar bhi padti thi," recalls Jaspinder and she does how Sukhdev duly accompanied Jaspinder and her mother when she went for Miss Punjaban auditions in 2008 that the girl won.

"Right from rehearsals to where I stayed, nothing escaped his close scrutiny," says Jaspinder. "He is much more relaxed now that he thinks I am much mature but to tell you the truth I am still scared of him. Where I go with him or what I do, a thought always crosses that bade bhaiya is coming along!"

God gifted

Actor Jonita Doda fondly recalls how her parents told her that her elder brother as a child would pray every day, "Baba Ji, mujhe ek bahan de do," till his wish was granted. This brother-sister duo has been inseparable over the years. Four-year-elder Harshdeep accompanies his sister wherever he can, "I take him wherever I can drag him," corrects Jonita. She has made the most of her 'bade bhaiya' in school, "I was a bully. I teased boys for I knew nobody would mess with me cause they knew bada bhai marega." While this elder brother has always explained his little sis what, why, where and how of everything and everyone; Jonita has largely been an agreeable sister. "Ours has always been a very positive relationship." Being in the entertainment industry, this duo continues to share lots in common, "Sometimes my decision rides over, and sometimes it's his," Jonita shares. Theirs is a relationship of equals today, "We are very pally; people often find it odd that I party with my elder brother but that's how close and open we are!"

Sibling revelry

Actor Rana Sidhu is blessed with not one but two younger sisters—Navedeep (four years younger) and Preet Kamal (10 years younger). Their childhood was full on fun. "We have had amazing times, I would tease them no end, would tie their legs when they were sleeping and what not." Not only naughty, he had been caring too. For years, it was him who would get the youngest one ready and drop at school as their parents were both working. "We loved each other dearly but fought like crazy. We wouldn't talk for days on end." Years on, things are changed. "Ab to hum milne ko taraste hain." With both the girls married, Rana feels they belong more to their husbands and their family now. While the sisters are proud of all that their brother has achieved, he is happy too, "Donon apne gharan te raj kar riyan ne," says Rana, who is looking forward to his sisters' visit home to Patiala this Rakhi!

Love equation

Actor Sonu Sood has a younger sister Malvika on whom the actor dotes unconditionally. He did play a dominating role while growing up but insists, "Malvika was a good kid and we owe it to my parents' impeccable bringing up. I have loved her immensely and been protective of her but I have never ever been restrictive.”

Spoilt for choice
An ongoing lifestyle exhibition at Kisan Bhawan, Chandigarh, offers a world of apparels, accessories, furniture and more
Somya Abrol

August is august for a reason. We don't know about the awkward positions of the stars, but we do know it's the one month when women are bestowed with a legitimate channel to rake in some much-awaited moolah. And there's that emotional bond, of course! Cashing in on the same love, and rightly so, is the lifestyle exhibition Trends, brought to Chandigarh by The Rising Company, over the next two days.

What does this exhibition have that others don't? Well, truly, a little bit of everything, with a consistency in quality - from cotton linen to formal georgette suits, from Pakistani salwar-suits to evening gowns, from junk and stone jewellery to swanky fashion accessories, from ethnic clocks to French furniture, from decorative flowers to Bangkok fakes, from quits and table-cloths to blinds and bed-spreads, from paintings to sculptures, from rakhis to chocolates! But, that's not all - out of the 65 stalls put up at the Kishan Bhawan hall, seven are by Pakistani exhibitors, including one by Warasi Food from Karachi. About the same, Mandeep Sharma, spokesperson of The Rising Company, shares with us an interesting piece of trivia, "The makers of Warasi Food have brought in their utensils from Karachi to lend an authentic flavour to their dishes."

And, if your brother is not ready to burn a hole in his pocket, fret not; the apparels at the exhibit start at ~ 1,500.

(On at Kisan Bhawan, Sector 35, Chandigarh, from August 9 to 11)

somya@tribunemail.com

PUNJABI TADKA
Meaning in words
Punjabi singer Prabh Gill says training gives a finer edge and improves the voice quality of singers
Jasmine Singh

SING ALONG: Prabh Gill
SING ALONG: Prabh Gill

If he had a choice, which he exercises one time too many, he would stay in the real world. A world not flanked by flashy cars, two or three hi-end smart phones and pseudo fans. Punjabi singer Prabh Gill accepts everything with humility, be it fame, adulation or star status.

The Ludhiana-based singer has worked hard to get this, but then he stays closer to reality. The singer shot to fame with Tere Bina, which received a record number of hits with nearly 1,500 downloads a day. His lyrics are soaked in meaning and his voice reflects soulfulness. The simple and rooted singer lets us peep into his world.

Singer always

It might sound funny — if I hadn't been a singer, I would still be a singer. Maybe not that popular, but I would be singing for sure. And if not anything, I would be singing in the chorus of some popular singer…but singing.

Training helps

I believe a trained singer has a long way to go. Training gives finesse to the voice quality and helps a person understand the nuances better.

If given a chance

I still listen to a lot of Pakistani music, if given a chance I would love to collaborate with Rahat Fateh Ali Khan. I wish I could have had a lifetime opportunity to sing with Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan.

More than words

I feel it is the lyrics of a song that make or break it. Lyrics are the soul of music and I am particular about retaining the right kind of words for my songs. We like certain songs more because of the lyrics than the music alone.

Inspiration around

People who wait eagerly for our tracks are the real inspiration. Why would I need something else to fall back on when I know I have people waiting to listen to me.

Show time

Recently, I sang in front of a crowd of hundreds of people at Sector-17, Chandigarh, on the World Music Day. It was the same stage that I had seen Sharry Mann sing on and had wondered whether one fine day I would have the same crowd listening to me. I did achieve my dream and it was very satisfying.

Preparation important

Around 10-15 minutes before any performance I go completely quiet. I like to give my throat some rest and at the same time it lets me handle anxiety. Anxiety is one thing that big singers like Gurdas Maan also face before a live show.

Marooned on an island

I would take my harmonium, Subway sandwich and a water bottle along.

Up next

A couple of songs in films and some new tracks.

jasmine@tribunemail.com

The foodies
Let the taste get to you…
Zola's, the fairly new trattoria in town, lives up to its promise
Somya Abrol

The mouth-watering dishes at Zola’s
The mouth-watering dishes at Zola’s

There's a lot of hyperbole surrounding the concept of soul and this or that experience moving it or touching it or satiating it! But, how do you know, in that quaint moment of silence, that you have been moved; that something inside has been enlightened; that your perspective towards life is going to be a tad different here on?

The answer, at least for us lesser mortals, is good Italian food. Now, we're not saying other cuisines can't attain that. Truth be told, when you're in the middle of true-blue Italian food, everything else in the backdrop seems like a good effort. So, does the two-month-old trattoria, Zola's — with a shrill 'Pizzeria' sign on the front — do justice?

The interiors of this trattoria welcome you with warmth, hence, inciting expectations. It's difficult not to expect her to be perfect when she looks so pretty! The brown, wooden interiors with empty wooden frames on one wall are a great conversation starter. If that doesn't help, they have a good variety of sangrias. The fact that they're for Rs 275 adds to the post-wine glow!

While they offer traditional starters such as the bruschetta, croquettes, panini, meatballs et al, we've never really believed in the concept of 'small bites'. Not really; we were just too famished to 'progress' to the main course. Our indulgences included Homemade Spinach Gnocchi, Peri Peri Chicken Pizza, Stuffed Chicken Breast and the Ricotta and Spinach Ravioli. Yes, Popeye was our hero!

Gnocchi is notorious for turning out either too mushy or too stiff and chewy. The chefs at Zola's, however, got it just right - the spinach and potato dumplings on a bed of smooth tomato-cheese sauce. What we particularly liked about the sauce was its uncanny balance. Not letting tomato overpower the palate is no mean feat. The pizza too was refreshingly crisp, yet pleasingly chewy. The crust-to-salsa-to-succulent-chicken ratio was commendable. Brass tacks — you wouldn't be left wanting either more or less toppings. The wood-fire cooking just adds to the charm. The Stuffed Chicken Breast, too, is prepared to the T. The chicken is effortless under the knife and the filling — of pine nuts, spinach and ricotta cheese — is elegantly flavoured. Served with sautéed vegetables, mashed potatoes and jus, the plate is a wholesome meal.

Now, one may say we're biased towards ravioli. Not denying any allegations, but the Ricotta and Spinach Ravioli takes the cake. The pockets are appropriately stuffed, the pasta is very close to al dente and the walnut and sage sauce is the right kind of creamy. What pleased us the most were the large portions — fit to match the giant hearts of the Italians!

The hearty main course did such justice to the empty stomach that tasting dessert seemed like wishful thinking. Just another trip to the restaurant, then! Did someone say 'soul food'?

Restaurant: Zola's, Sector 26, Chandigarh

Meal for two: Rs 1,500 (approx)

Outdoor seating: Yes; WiFi: No; Alcohol: Yes

Rating (1-5)

Ambience: 3.5

Presentation: 3.5

Taste: 4

Service: 3.5

Value for money: 3.5

Master Chef
Aam baat!
Kandla Nijhowne

The time has come when we prepare to say goodbye to the 'King of Fruits'. At this point, I'm inclined to go into hog-mode, tucking into mangoes like there was no tomorrow! This is also the time when I freeze puree and make chutney and pickle. I often do a batch of homemade 'Aam papad' too.

Once dry, you can push blocks of this tangy, chewy stuff into a tin and tuck it away to savour later. Homemade mango leather, as it is called in the West, is delightfully different from shop-bought. You are also in control of the hygiene levels when you make it yourself. If you like a spicy version, you can add rock salt (kala namak), ginger powder and pepper to the recipe.

Aam Papad

  • 500-600 gm peeled, de-stoned mango
  • 2-4 tbsp grain sugar
  • 2 cardamoms, ground finely (optional)

Method

  • Chop the mango into large chunks.
  • Tumble the pieces into a blender, add sugar and ground cardamom powder. Puree till smooth.
  • Tip the puree into a heavy pan. Cook on a medium heat, stirring constantly.
  • When the sauce comes to a boil, simmer for five more minutes; then turn off the heat.
  • Grease a polythene sheet with a light smearing of oil, place it onto a tray. You can also use a length of aluminum foil instead.
  • Pour the paste over it and level out with a blunt knife.
  • Place the tray in direct sunlight for 2-3 days. If the sun is a bit weak, let the time be extended to another extra day.
  • Peel the "aam papad" off the polythene, then cut into squares or diamond shapes.
  • Store in an airtight tin.

Note: You may add any or all of the following - rock salt, pepper powder and ginger powder, just before you set up the mixture to cook.

(Nijhowne is a Chandigarh-based culinary expert)

Leather touch

Bag full: The bags that are part of the collection
Bag full: The bags that are part of the collection

Ex-Femina Miss India Natasa Suri, Priyanka Shah and Himangini Singh unveiled Da Milano's autumn-winter collection 2014 at the Da Milano's Botique at Elante Mall, Chandigarh, on Saturday.

The new autumn-winter collection incorporates bold colours, classic designs, clean-cut shape and warm hues made of pure leather. It makes the perfect accessories for the lady that likes to be noticed. The modern designs are crafted with the finest attention to detail and rooted in the elegance of Italian craftsmanship. The collection provides today's 'fashionista' woman with impeccably styled leather goods in colours like black, cognac, jade, red, lilac and mustard.

The managing director Sahil Malik shared, "The brand is passionate about producing the highest quality accessories from durable, premium leather. This collection is sure to light up your wardrobe and evenings. The new range is not only confined to handbags, but it also has wallets, briefcase, computer bag, sling bags et al. — TNS

Bollywood loves Kashmir

Kashmir was the staple destination for Bollywood movies before the unrest happened in the 1990s. But crews have begun shooting over there for a while now and we take a look at some prominent movies that have been shot there recently

Haider: The film, which is Bollywood adaptation of the Shakespeare's Hamlet, is the latest film to be shot in Kashmir. A large part of shooting of the film was done in Srinagar last year. There were some protests while the shoot of the film was going on in Kashmir University. Luckily for Vishal Bharadwaj, the shooting went fine. Haider will release on October 2.

Jab Tak Hai Jaan: Late filmmaker Yash Chopra was planning a long vacation in Kashmir after the release of his last directorial venture Jab Tak Hai Jaan. A huge portion of the film was shot there. The song Jiya Re also featured houseboats. Chopra shot many films there. His movies Silsila, Kabhi Kabhie, Veer Zaara, Dil To Pagal Hai and others had a huge fan following in Kashmir.

Bhaag Milkha Bhaag: Though the film was mostly shot in Punjab, there were some scenes which were shot in Ladakh. But this wasn't the first time when Farhan visited Kashmir. He shot Lakshya in Ladakh in 2004 with Hrithik Roshan and Preity Zinta. Farhan loves the place.

Highway: A majority of the second half of Imtiaz Ali's Highway is set in unseen locales of the valley. Alia Bhatt and Randeep Hooda settle for a day in the mountains and the beauty of the valley is simply breath-taking.

Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani: The trekking trip from this film was shot in Gulmarg and Manali as shown in the film. It was Ranbir-Deepika's first film after their break-up and we can't help but wonder if the beauty of Kashmir made them feel nostalgic. Well, you never know!

Rockstar: In Imtiaz Ali's Rockstar, Nargis' character is Kashmiri. So, Nargis and Ranbir are seen taking bike rides in the snow-covered mountains and enjoying hot chai. She also dresses up in Kashmiri wedding finery. The song Katiya and a few scenes, including one at a traditional Kashmiri house, are shot there.

Rang Rasiya finally gets rolling

Riding high on the success of his latest film Kick, Randeep Hooda is all set to return to the box-office with his upcoming release, Rang Rasiya. Directed by Ketan Mehta (also, known as the director of Mangal Pandey: The Rising) and produced by Jayantilal Gada of PEN India.

Starring Randeep Hooda, Nandana Sen and Triptha Parashar in the lead roles, Rang Rasiya is an erotic love story of the 19th century Indian painter, Raja Ravi Varma with his muse, Sugandha Bai, with Randeep and Nandana playing the respective roles.

Rang Rasiya will finally see the light of day after being in the waiting for last six years. The much delayed film apparently faced a lot of hurdles because of the bold scenes picturised between the lead actors Randeep and Nandana. However, the film is now cleared to hit the silver screen.

The film is an adaptation of a Marathi writer, Ranjit Desai's biographical novel on Raja Ravi Varma. Mehta thought that Varma was the most fascinating artist of that era and his character, persona and paintings fascinated him from his days at Film and Television Institute of India. After reading Desai's novel, he formulated the story of the film. Ketan Mehta saw Hooda's previous films, and he thought that he was a skilful actor. As a preparation for his role, Hooda tried to learn the basics of painting. When Mehta first met Nandana at her house, he saw two life-size reproductions of Raja Ravi Varma's paintings. This assured him that she was familiar with the artist and his works, and made his job easier.

Poshter perfect

Following the success of Shreyas Talpade's latest venture, Poshter Boyz, the actor-turned-producer is planning to make his Marathi venture Poshter Boyz in Hindi to reach out pan-India. The film has struck gold at the box office; receiving rave reviews both from critics and audiences alike.

The movie which opened with a 167 screen release across the state has collected over Rs 1.60 crore in its first six days itself, making it one of the largest openers of 2014 for Marathi cinema.

The movie benefited immensely from a very aggressive marketing campaign and strong word-of-mouth driven by a novel concept, original content and rib-tickling humour. Talking about it being remade in Hindi Shreyas said, "I am getting a lot of requests from my friends in media and Bollywood that I should make the film in Hindi, so that people across India can enjoy it. I am thinking of making it in Hindi and let's see what happens," Commenting on the response his movie is getting, an elated Shreyas said, "We are overwhelmed with the response we are getting for the film. Our focus was to make an original, honest and clean family entertainer that would connect with the masses and are glad that our efforts have been vindicated."

Being produced under Shreyas' own banner Affluence Movies Private Limited, Poshter Boyz is directed by Sameer Patil and has been shot across real locations across Western Maharashtra.

A new gym for Hrithik

Post-separation from his wife Sussanne, Hrithik Roshan will be moving out from his parents' house and shifting to a sea facing third floor apartment in Prime Beach, Juhu. Another Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar lives in the same building. However, he is yet to enter his new home.

Currently, work is going on in the apartment to make it suitable for the superstar. One of the most notable developments at the home will be a new exercise area. Sources have revealed that out of the four bedrooms, a wall between two rooms will be taken down and the gym will be setup there.

While the news is interesting, it is hardly surprising since Hrithik is a well known fitness fanatic. He possesses an enviable physique that has been praised by his fans and industry colleagues alike. The actor has also recently encouraged his fans to go for fitness by re-tweeting photos on his Twitter account that depict the results some his fans have achieved through workout. In his family home too, Hrithik had set up a fully equipped gym. He is known to spend time with his parents at the gym and even showers his mother with gifts when she losses weight. Apart from the gym, one of the bedrooms is also being prepared for his two sons who will be dropping by from time to time.

CHATTER BOX

A truly inspiring tale

In tune: Anurag Basu (R) on the show India’s Best Cinestars Ki Khoj Having proven his mettle as one of the finest directors of his times with award-winning films like Barfi, Anurag Basu is currently seen on the tube judging fresh talent in Zee TV's India's Best Cinestars Ki Khoj. Anurag Basu has slowly become one of the favourite judges of the contestants, who call him dada.

In tune: Anurag Basu (R) on the show India’s Best Cinestars Ki Khoj

From cracking jokes to giving them valuable advice on how to make it big in the industry, Dada has always told the contestants that they are lucky to have a platform like Cine Stars ki Khoj to showcase their talent. Giving the contestants examples of various achievers from the industry week after week, he recently spoke of his own journey in showbiz.

Sharing a lesser-known fact, Basu recalled his days of being a background dancer. Dada spoke of how he had always dreamt of becoming a director one day. He said, "Today it is very easy to get into the industry with these talent shows, but during our times it was very difficult. I always wanted to be a director but in order to become a director, one needed to be on the sets of a film to understand the nitty-gritties of movie-making. So I started out as a background dancer, as it paid more than being a junior artist."

While all the contestants were awe-inspired, Akshay Nalawade, one of the top 10 contestants, seized the moment to shake a leg with dada on stage.

Final call: A still from Main Naa Bhoolungi Coming to an end

Main Naa Bhoolungi will end on August 15. The show, starring Vikas Manaktala and Aishwarya Sakuja, didn't fare well on the ratings chart. The makers of Main Naa Bhoolungi, which was inspired from Khoon Bhari Maang, however, claim that it was planned as a finite show.

Final call: A still from Main Naa Bhoolungi

Double century!

Star Plus' Ye Hai Mohabbatein (Balaji Telefilms) completed 200 successful episodes. The show has become one of the most loved and well-appreciated shows for its different story; exceptional star cast and their performance. To celebrate this special occasion, the entire cast and crew cut cakes on the sets and held a small get-together.

On a long break

After getting married in 2006, Manoj Bidwai and Ravee Gupta recently became parents. The couple was blessed with a baby boy and named him Agastya. Ravee has not been seen on TV since a while now and with the baby now, she has no plans to return to work anytime soon.

No Bigg Boss for Taslima

With Bigg Boss gearing up to lock contestants, apparently writer Taslima Nasreen had been approached for the upcoming season of the show. She was offered Rs 3 crore a week, but the Bangladeshi writer has refused the offer.

New beginning: Pratyusha BanerjeeBack on telly

Pratyusha Banerjee, who was last seen in an episodic in a television show, might soon return to TV. She has been finalised for DJ Unit's upcoming show called Hum Hai Na. The show will air on Sony and she will star in it opposite Kanwar Dhillon.

New beginning: Pratyusha Banerjee

Tribute to women

Ragini Khanna and Jay Soni, who starred in Sasuraal Genda Phool, will now be working again. They will be hosting a show that will focus on women with inspiring stories and dole out a cash prize too. Jay and Ragini haven't done a TV project since few months.

Bold & beautiful

Neha Sharma was last seen in Youngistaan and it flopped. She is doing a bold photo shoot for a men's magazine as she prepares for her next film.

Nimrat in Homeland

Nimrat Kaur has got an Arabic tattoo on her wrist. It is a tiny word and only she knows what it means. She is currently in Cape Town, shooting for popular American series Homeland.

What’s cooking?

Mehar Jessia Rampal left Abhishek Kapoor's birthday bash in tears without her husband Arjun Rampal. A while later Arjun and Sussanne Khan also left and the three were spotted having dinner at a restaurant nearby. Sussanne and Arjun were linked in the past and we wonder what these three are up to!

ASTRO TURF
P Khurrana

ARIES: There will be the issue of a strong and vital relationship that you will have to deal with. Around the end of the day your intuitive and perceptive skills will be especially sharp. Tarot message: Let things run their course and start afresh later. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 25.

TAURUS: With the presence of Saturn in your monetary sector, you will need to work out your plans for investing and saving as much as possible. Your love life will be quite interesting. Tarot message: Avoid the tendency to judge others too harshly. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 46.

GEMINI: Relationships are essential and vital to our existence therefore you should be patient with people around you. There will be times when you feel unloved and neglected; however, it will only be temporary. Tarot message: Avoid situations that can turn nasty. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 57.

CANCER: Be attentive and careful of everything that you do at work, since it will affect your overall career. Let all your latent talents and skills shine through. Business people can plan to diversify or expand. Tarot message: Focus on professional changes. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 26.

LEO: There will be an increase in confidence and energy as you go about your work. Most of you will also start planning career moves and get a good response from prospective employers. Tarot message: DO not lend to strangers. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 41.

VIRGO: Finances and spending will be your focus today, along with other things. There will be some splurging due to the festive air and some of you will also be surprised by a sudden windfall. Tarot message: Do not leave things to chance. Lucky colour: Blue. Magic number: 62.

LIBRA: The focus of the day will be on your ability to deal with more than one thing at a time. It is vital that you plan everything and deal with any hurdles that come your way, either at work or in personal life. Tarot message: Strive for perfection at work. Lucky colour: Rainbow-pastels. Magic number: 60.

SCORPIO: This will be quite an uplifting and inspiring day. You will be able to realise your goals for the future and start working towards them in full earnest. Social and familial bonds will become stronger. Tarot message: Take no chances despite the assurance of people. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 28.

SAGITTARIUS: Take care of your health and exercise caution when driving, since you are prone to mishaps today. Some of you will decide to take concrete action to improve your personal life and relationships. Tarot message: Allow a situation to settle before you start afresh. Lucky colour: Forest-green. Magic number: 33.

CAPRICORN: Some of you may have overshot your budgets in the past few days due to celebrations, so now is a good time to be prudent. Domestic affairs will be calm; however, you can feel overburdened. Tarot message: Be honest to your desires. Lucky colour: Lotus-pink. Magic number: 36

AQUARIUS: Your instincts and reactions will be relatively fast today. Deal with any pending tasks at work and also delegate, since doing too much will only burn you out. Keep an eye on your health. Tarot message: Take one step at a time. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 47.

PISCES: Although you are driven and focused on your goals, it is also important that you avoid being critical of team members and partners. This can lead to arguments and undue stress. Tarot message: Learn to accept responsibility for yourself and others. Lucky colour: Grey. Magic number: 58.

THE YEAR AHAED
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is August 10...

Your birthday falls on Raksha Bandhan, which you must celebrate with the family today. There will be travel abroad for business or education and chances of meeting new people are bright. Your spouse or partner will be very supportive; there will be a general sense of happiness and satisfaction in relationships. Family life and other such matters with people close to you can become a bit more stressful, leading to lack of energy. You will end the year quite exhausted, but happy. Love and creative understanding are under transformation. Work and health can be little demanding now. Spending for travel, party and entertainment can affect your financial condition.

Positive colours: Golden, red, brown, cream. Select days: Sunday, Monday. Favourable numbers: 1, 4, 2, 7.

Gems recommended: Yellow Sapphire, Red Coral.

Charity on birthday: Donate wheat to the needy or at any religious place today.

You share your birthday with José Antonio Domínguez Banderas (August 10, 1960), better known as Antonio Banderas — a Spanish film actor, film director, producer and singer. Banderas is also a voice artist, who has portrayed the voice of Puss in Boots in the Shrek sequels.





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