No risky business, Seth?
Rookie Emmy host Seth Meyers’ safe brand of humour didn’t find many takers in City Beautiful
Somya Abrol

Jokes are like nominees. They can't all be winners." Well, Seth, you said it.

The Saturday Night Live star garnered a lot of flak after hosting the 66th Primetime Emmy Awards for his "safe" brand of comedy by entertainment news portals such as CBS News, SMH.com and E!Online. So much so, that 'business magnet' and celebrity Donald Trump bombarded Twitter with tweets such as "Seth Meyers just set the Emmys back 30 years! Terrible! (sic)" and "Kimmel was way funnier than Meyers. I don't think I laughed once at anything Seth said. (sic)" and "Seth Meyers lame 'act' proving @realDonaldTrump correct; #Emmys are almost unwatchable. (sic)".

And so, we, at Tribune Life+Style, decided to take matters in our hand and find out Chandigarh youngsters' reaction to the rookie Emmys host-comedian, producer and actor, Seth Meyers.

"At first, I liked his jokes quite a bit, mostly because I could relate to them. His sarcasm was spot on, especially when he took a dig at MTV still hosting the Video Music Awards. But, the fact that he stuck to the old format of taking digs at the industry and playing safe with network-oriented jokes got a little boring, a little too early," says Varnika Kundu, Chandigarh-based music producer and avid follower of TV soap Game of Thrones (GOT).

The literal non-existence of GOT at the Emmys is not something she's happy about: "Game of Thrones hasn't won a creative Emmy in years! Peter Dinklage losing out to Aaron Paul (Breaking Bad) for the Best Supporting Actor award was nothing short of heart-breaking."

And then there were Big Bang Theory fans who couldn't complain if they wanted to. "Jim Parsons (Sheldon Cooper) is the single most-funniest man alive. I'm glad to see his earnestness being recognised each year," says Riyanka Verma, Chandigarh-based freelance copywriter. Jim Parsons won the Emmy for Lead Actor, Comedy, this year; this was his fourth Emmy for the world's most-watched American show, Big Bang Theory, which puts him in an all-time comedy list tie with Michael J Fox and Kelsey Grammar. About Seth Meyers playing host, Verma adds, "His jokes (read network jibes) were redundant and his brand of safe comedy was very amateurish. You certainly expect better from an experienced comedian like Seth. Also, he looked slightly uncomfortable in his own skin; looking to audiences for approval of his jokes, which clearly meant he didn't have faith in them."

Loyalists, however, do not cease to exist. "Seth Meyers' brand of comedy was a welcome change; otherwise, mostly it turns into a roast of people present at the ceremony. His jokes were genuinely funny because they gave us a sneak peek into what goes on at those American TV networks," says Abhinav Sharma, social media manager, AuthorGen Inc, Mohali. About his favourite show, Game of Thrones, not winning big, he adds, "Though I'm sad about GOT not winning, I stand by the fact that people don't watch Game of Thrones because of the number of awards it has won over the years. Emmys won't make a difference to the popularity of the show. One show I did miss at the Emmys this year was Simpsons. I believe people don't mention Simpsons anymore because they know they'd have to give away an award just for mentioning the name."

somya@tribunemail.com

Meyer & mayhem
Seth Meyers got us rolling on…

  • "Shows like Game of Thrones, The Good Wife and Fargo have the right idea. When your show starts getting critical acclaim and attention, kill off all the main characters, otherwise before you know it, you're paying Sheldon a million dollars an episode."
  • "This year we saw a lot of series finales for popular shows including Breaking Bad, Dexter and How I Met Your Mother. And if you had asked me which of the shows would have the saddest ending, I would not have picked the one about the nice man telling a story to his children. That's right kids, Jesse Pinkman lived, Dexter lived, but your mother didn't make it. Sleep tight."
  • "We have comedies that make you laugh and comedies that make you cry because they were dramas submitted as comedies."
  • "This year, we're doing the Emmys on a Monday night in August, which if I understand television, means the Emmys are about to get canceled."
  • "We're doing this show on Monday in part because MTV aired the Video Music Awards last night. That's right, MTV still has an award show for music videos, even though they no longer show music videos. That's like network TV holding an awards show and giving all the trophies to cable and Netflix."

Shaan-dar character!
The sober and shy singer Shaan as boisterous Balwinder Singh? Well, the transformation was necessary for him to become 'famous' in Mumbai
Manpriya Singh

Picturing Mika as a Balwinder Singh doesn't take much thought but placing singer Shaan as a Balwinder Singh calls for some amount of effort and imagination. Well, picture them both with the same name.
Shaan
Act two: Shaan

"The film is about this guy who comes to Mumbai without a plan, with no talent to show. He thinks it is a city which has something for everyone, so he makes his move," singer Shaan gets started about the upcoming Balwinder Singh Famous Ho Gaya.

A situational comedy that pits him against Mika, who is also the Balwinder Singh. "The film has 132 Balwinder Singhs."

There goes the anticipation of details or any attempt to understand the plot. Nevertheless, he fills in some blanks. "The film is a story of two protagonists played by Mika and me, who also happen to be namesakes or Balwinder Singh. They are constantly trying to pull each other down while at the same time attempting to win the heart of the girl of their dreams."

The mention of pulling each other down conjures up images of the classic Andaaz Apna Apna. Are they trying to pull an Aamir and Salman? Any mention of reference point and he mentions probably, "Aamir Khan in Rangeela."

As for Mika, "It was fun working with him. We constantly try to put each other in spot. My character is that of quite a conniving guy."

Singer above all

We've all known him as not just someone who takes to the microphone and croon but also someone who shuttles in-between as an anchor and as an actor and easily so. However, apart from the common thread binding all the roles, there is only a slight difference. "I enjoy doing all these roles. If I didn't enjoy them, I wouldn't be doing them. But singing comes naturally to me because that is who I am, a singer." He adds, "As for the other things, they are more of a challenge and that is what makes them exciting." Then he packs the versatility of being able to switch genres from folk songs to Punjabi songs.

The eighties show

When not entertaining the crowd, or playing for others, it is only natural to go back to being one with the music he grew up with. "I'm an eighties guy. So, I love all the eighties music, pop tracks and artists like Bryan Adams. That is where my comfort zone is." The musical comedy also stars newcomer Gabreila Bertante along with Asrani, Anupam Kher, Rajpal Yadav, Vindoo Dara Singh and others. "There are some fun songs in the film like Mohabbat Ka Bhompu."

While at the business of comedies, are there any films that form a part of his DVD collections? "I quite like classics like Hrishikesh Mukherjee's Golmaal, Rang Birangi and the like." Well, has he caught up on anything recently? He laughs, "Oh yeah, I actually haven't seen many films lately." A long pause is followed by a prompt, "Oh yes, I saw this film, Dedh Ishqiya, and quite liked it." Meanwhile, he needs to catch up on some recent films while the audience catches up on his upcoming.

manpriya@tribunemail.com

In the swim of things
Kitty parties are a mainstay in Ludhiana society. The latest in vogue is the aqua kitty which combines a good swim with sumptuous food
Poonam Bindra

Ludhiana is well known for the fashion quotient and for innovative social activities. Kitty Party is also a part and parcel of ludhiana society. Call it a "waste of time", but it is here to stay for it gives a sense of pleasure and bonhomie to many and age is no bar. The newest adventure in this line is the formation of the aqua kitty wherein enthusiastic swimmers get together, swim and gorge on yummy food once a month.

The first host was the Hyatt Regency with its lovely pool on the sixth floor.

"With juices and fruits being served on the side we felt as if we were in Goa," enthuses Manjula Jain. Interestingly the age group varies from 26 to 84. And as the octogenarian and academician Kamla Jain puts in, "This is one party I can't afford to miss."

It has been just getting better and better and now even Raddison Blue has hosted such parties many times. It includes an early morning swim followed by a lavish breakfast.

The aqua kitty went a step further as they made a trip to the hills to swim and have a feast recently. The resort Surya Villas, near Solan, was their destination. And as enthusiastic as ever the group of 25 ladies took a luxury bus from Ludhiana to Surya Villas and swam in the crystal blue water for two hours, had a sumptuous lunch and drove back.

Swimmer Shubha Sanwalka says, "I have been swimming since many years but now I realise what fun it is to swim together." The group is already planning for the next get together and we are informed by co-hosts Mala Danda, a jewellery designer by profession and Saloni Jain, the architect of the kitty "It is at the Nirvana club pool in Avedha Resorts."

Wed in luxury
Bridal Affairs brings all wedding solutions under one roof
Mona

Dream Weddings is on with its 16th outing and Bridal Affairs at Hotel Taj promises to bring all wedding solutions under one roof. Right from invites, clothes, jewellery, accessories, footwear, photography and more, there is a lot that awaits you here.

The designs by sisters Vandana and Prerna Talwar from Prevasu are quite eye-catching. Sari lehanga in purple and a crop top with skirt in mustard stand out in the crowd. In fact, the latter design has also been sported by actress Richa Chadda at a channel event. Their range starts from Rs 10,000 onwards. There are many designers in the age group of thirty and above, some from the city while others from Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur and more cities. Rashmi Bindra's designs are available here too. Now that weddings are as much about the bride as about the families and friends, there sure are plenty of options to choose from. Shararas, lachas, Anarkalis, saris, lehangas, gowns - you ask for it and it's all there!

Rich gota patti work done on non- conventional colours - white, black and pastels - is what Mandvi by Punit Balana gets from Jaipur. The brand promises quality. "Our pieces are timeless. The heavy work will stay fresh forever and you can always recycle them," says Malvika from Mandvi.

Not only for the bride or her friends, grooms too can look for options here right from what to wear to kalgis and more.

If tired of shopping, you can take a break at the tarot reader or plan for travel. Food Art gives you option of finalising wedding caterers and Manna's Sweetart offers options for the wedding cake!

(On till August 28 at Hotel Taj)

mona@tribunemail.com

Match & tell

At a time when materialism has taken over, marriages are a costly affair. Irrational beliefs and rituals also add up to the financial loot. "In order to curb such ill practices, www.matrified.com has been launched," says Satnam Chauhan, CEO of the company. She says the website follows a very simple and quick approach for finding your soul-mate. "Users register on this site and browse for a suitable profile and express interest. If the profile accepts your interest, both the families can access contact details for free and pursue the alliance forward. There is no middleman involved in the communication, which gives the families every kind of flexibility and enough time to take this important decision," she adds. What's best is that there are no hidden charges at any point of time. There is also the option of Kundali-matching and a zodiac compatibility feature, which gives you a detailed overview of how well two zodiacs can gel together. In addition, every profile will further display their main strengths and weaknesses based on their sun sign. — TNS

CELEB POINT
The present is a gift
Divya Dutta

I feel the happiest when I'm with my work associates who are like-minded; with the zest to create something new and the enthusiasm to live life to the fullest. Yes, life is about moments. The present! And it's very important to be present for the present.

I recently attended a party with the actors, including Varun Shawan and Nawazuddin, and crew of one of my latest films. I was a bit under the weather, so getting into the party mood and dress was a bit tough. Then I recalled that I had a wonderful time shooting for the film with like-minded people. Whichever mood you are in, once on the set the energy is different. I feel so secure in that surrounding! Taken care of, pampered, respected and doing what I love the most - acting. That single unit kind of disintegrates into solo individuals again, back to their own lives, problems, joys…it intrigues me.

I was excited to meet the team, but a bit low as I entered the party scene. Thankfully, I could keep my mood out and got absorbed in the joy of meeting those people again, discussing our scenes once again. Celebrating a movie well-made! A bit tired, I sat down and then started observing each person… they were all like me, all had situations they had to deal with and their individual battles to fight. But for all of them, the moment of coming together was important. That feeling of being together even for a bit always makes you strong! Chatting with all, bonding with all, exchanging notes on how their lives were going along…nothing can be better!

Happy and at peace, I bid goodbye to the lovely group and came outside waiting for my car. The cool breeze brushed past my face...I thought of my companions.

(Dutta is a Bollywood actor)

star track
Breaking records
The crime drama series Breaking Bad sweeps the 66th Emmy Awards

American crime drama TV series Breaking Bad won big, including honours for the best drama series and best writing for a drama series at the 66th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards, held on Monday. Comedy show Modern Family also won multiple awards at the ceremony, hosted by Seth Meyers.

Breaking Bad revolves around a struggling high school chemistry teacher, who is diagnosed with inoperable lung cancer at the beginning of the series. It presents how he turns to a life of crime to secure his family's financial future.

The show's star Bryan Cranston bagged the Outstanding Lead Actor In A Drama Series Emmy. Aaron Paul, on the other hand, walked away with the Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Drama Series for his performance in the series. His co-star Anna Gunn too went home with Outstanding Supporting Actress In A Drama Series trophy.

Modern Family was feted for being an Outstanding Comedy Series, while Ty Burrell was given the trophy for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for playing Phil Dunphy in the popular show, whose director Gail Mancuso bagged the Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series award at the extravaganza, held at the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles.

The venue saw a star-studded presence of celebrities dressed in their best for the red carpet event, which was kept alive with Meyers' jokes. A special segment was In Memoriam, as part of which actor-filmmaker paid an emotional and befitting tribute to his "greatest friend", the late Robin Williams.

Prior to the tribute to Williams, pop star Sara Bareilles sang a touching rendition of Smile as the Emmy Awards acknowledged late celebrities James Avery, Maya Angelou, Lauren Bacall, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Casey Kasem, Don Pardo, Harold Ramis, Mickey Rooney, Elaine Stritch, Shirley Temple and more.

For Allison Janney, the Emmys night turned out to be a double whammy. She bagged an award for being an Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series in Mom and even as an Outstanding Guest Actress In A Drama Series for Masters Of Sex.

In the category of performances in a mini-series and television movie, seasoned actors Benedict Cumberbatch and Jessica Lange won accolades for their Outstanding Performance as Lead Actor and Actress in Sherlock: His Last Vow and American Horror Story: Coven, respectively.

The Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Mini-Series or movie honour was bagged by Kathy Bates for her role as Madame Delphine LaLaurie in American Horror Story: Coven, while Martin Freeman walked away with the Outstanding Supporting Actor title for Sherlock: His Last Vow, which also won the Outstanding Writing for a Mini-Series, Movie or a Dramatic Special for Steven Moffat.

In the Outstanding Directing for a Mini-Series, Movie or a Dramatic Special Category, Colin Bucksey received the trophy for Fargo.

Fargo, a dark comedy-crime drama TV series, was named the best Mini-Series and The Normal Heart, based on a play of the same name, got the award for the outstanding television movie.

The Amazing Race got the Outstanding Reality- Competition Program trophy.

As far as the variety series were concerned, The Colbert Report, which features political humorist Stephen Colbert giving satirical commentary on the big issues of the US, won two honours—the Outstanding Variety Series and Outstanding Writing in a Variety Series.

Sarah Silverman walked away with the award for Outstanding Writing for a Variety Special for Sarah Silverman: We Are Miracles, and the Outstanding Directing for a Variety Special Honour went to Glenn Weiss for the 67th Annual Tony Awards.

In the Outstanding Directing for a Variety Series category, Don Roy King won for his work on Saturday Night Live, hosted by Jimmy Fallon.

The Outstanding Variety Special Trophy was given to the team behind AFI Life Achievement Award: A Tribute To Mel Brooks.

— IANS

Rani receives rave reviews

Rani Mukerji has been busy attending calls due to the fantastic response that Mardaani has got. She deserves every accolade coming her way. Mardaani has opened to a fantastic reaction from one and all. The film has also been made tax-free in Madhya Pradesh.

A lot of people who have seen the film have also reached out to her and spoken at length about the sensitive subject and her powerful performance. The film has created a stir and is being discussed among the industry and audiences at large.

Rekha reached out to Rani to check if there is a screening. Rani immediately organised a special screening for her. Post the film, Rekha called Rani and spoke at length about the role and the subject of the film. She gave Rani a detailed feedback on the film and her role. She had a strong perspective and the duo had an insightful exchange.

Aamir Khan, who had loved the promo and had tweeted about it, called Rani and told her about how he is hearing very positive things about the film. He requested her for a screening and he watched the film.

Shraddha’s high on protein

Shraddha Kapoor has been preparing for her next ABCD 2 and is training very hard to get in the skin of a professional dancer.

The actress has to increase muscle weight in her body for which she has to be on a high protein diet.

The actress isn't just working hard at the gym she has also been personally keeping a check on what she consumes.

Since she has to increase her muscle, proteins like chicken, tofu and soya are a major part of her everyday diet. Shraddha is a dedicated actor and has been very strict with herself for this role in particular. Her role in ABCD 2 is very different from what the audiences have seen before.

It is a very challenging role as it requires Shraddha to master various dance styles and have great strength and flexibility. She is getting a chance to learn a lot. Post recovery from her injury, she has been working double to make up for the lost time. She is also promoting Haider at the same time.

Shraddha says, "All the dancing and eating right is hard work but I enjoy it. It makes sense to put healthy food into your body. I have a good metabolism and my body adapts fast to changes. I know that the movie will be worth every drop of sweat."

The mystery of calendar girls

Madhur Bhandarkar's next titled Calendar Girls that revolves around the models who gain popularity after featuring in famous calendars, has gone on floor this month. While everyone is aware that the film is being shot, no one is aware about the cast of the film since the director is shooting it at a guarded set.

Madhur is not entertaining any visitor while he is shooting the film and no one is allowed to carry mobile phones or cameras while the shoot is on. Not only this, producer Sangeeta Ahir of Mangal Murti Films has made sure that apart from the cast, the whole crew signs a non-disclosure agreement so that no information is leaked to any outsider.

Sangeeta says, "Madhur has opted for five newcomers for the film and there is a strategy to talk about them at the right time. Right now, our priority is to get done with the shoot and once we are closer to the release, a marketing campaign will be initiated to talk about the girls who are being launched."

Madhur adds, "While we were looking for glamorous girls, it was important that they act well too since the film is heavy on content. I am happy that we managed to get the right cast."

We have heard that the film is being shot on a lavish scale in Mumbai and also at one of the exotic locations abroad with lots of glitz and glamour. While we can only tell you that all the five girls come from a modeling background from various cities across India, you will have to wait a bit longer to know who they are.

Priyanka donates

Priyanka Chopra has been nominated by many to take up the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge but she has turned it down. She shared a link about it and has made a donation instead. That's a classy act!

When Kajol got drunk

Ajay Devgn recently hosted the success party of Singham Returns at his residence and rumour has it that wife Kajol had a little too much to drink. She apparently tried to get cozy with Ajay after she got drunk. The incident left Ajay embarrassed as the entire cast was present at the party.

Absurd advice

 The Censor Board is becoming more absurd by the day. They have asked Homi Adajania to delete the word 'virgin' from Finding Fanny's dialogue and also change a few scenes depicting Dimple Kapadia's prosthetic derriere and Deepika Padukone's bra strap for a "U/A" rating.

Ram Lakhan returns

Rumour has it that director Rohit Shetty might approach Ranveer Singh and Arjun Kapoor to play the lead in Ram Lakhan remake. Ranveer and Arjun had worked together in Gunday and the two actors are close friends.

it’s rocking
Out in the sun

He is David Guetta and this time, he is burning it up with a brand new track, Lovers on the Sun, which has topped the UK top 40 charts. With a quality of sound that is perfectly defined, this song will certainly set your hearts on fire. Featuring vocals by American singer-songwriter Sam Martin, the song has been written by Guetta, Sam Martin, Frédéric Riesterer, Giorgio Tuinfort, Jason Evigan, Michael Einziger and Avicii. It was produced by Guetta, Avicii, Riesterer, and Tuinfort, with additional production from Italian house production team Daddy's Groove. The track has also crowned the singles chart in Austria, Finland and Germany, and reached the top 40 in most of the countries where the track has been charted.

Nice tune

With the mention of David Guetta, there comes a promise of novelty that is often complimented by his rich taste in music. The music of this track is commendable and I really like the vocals. It's nice and refreshing.

Vidushi Sachdeva, businessperson

Good lyrics

It's an interesting song and I really like the lyrics, apart from the music. Since I am a huge fan of David Guetta, I feel that this is one of his finest compositions.

Prakash Tulli, dentist

Awesome song

I love the track. Only that the beginning of the video reminds me of a scene from the film Sholey, which makes it quite funny. The song in general is awesome. I like the drift in beat pattern and the looped whistle sound that forms the base for the song.

Aman Suraj, Chandigarh-based musician

(As told to Amarjot Kaur)

chatter box
As classic as Kirron!


Kirron Kher in Kitni Girhain Baaki Hain
saree magic: Kirron Kher in Kitni Girhain Baaki Hain

Draped in beautiful hues, KirronKher is in news for the distinctive style statement she makes as the sutradhar of the episodic series Kitni Girhain Baaki Hain on Premium Hindi Entertainment channel Zindagi. For the show, Kirron Kher dons an ethnic look with raw silk sarees in bright colours and bold patterns. A touch of glamour has been added to her attire with exquisite oxidised silver jewellery pieces and she ties her hair in a low bun, complete with the classic and evergreen accessory —the gajra. Beautiful and elegant in every sense, Kirron Kher's fashion sense has been well-appreciated by viewers and has become quite popular with style-conscious women.

The literal meaning of Kitni Girhain Baaki Hain is how many layers are yet to be unfolded, which is also the theme of the stories showcased in the series.

New show for Sakshi?

 Saakshi Tanwar, who is relaxing after her show Bade Achhe Lagte Hain, is surprised to hear that Ekta Kapoor is planning a show with her. Recently, she spoke to the media saying she has no idea about the new show. There were reports that she will star in Ekta's next called Itna Na Karo Mujhe Pyaar opposite Ronit Roy.

Satyamev Jayate is back

 Satyamev Jayate will soon be back on TV with its next set of episodes. This season, host Aamir Khan has divided the episodes for more impact. After four episodes in March, now the next installment might have celebrities like Kangana Ranaut, Parineeti Chopra and Deepika Padukone talking about various issues.

On a new channel

 Comedy Circus, which had been off air for a while, will soon be back on the tube. Buzz is that instead of Sony TV where it ran for years, now the show might air on Life OK. The makers apparently are looking at a format change and might air it next month.

Meaty role for Hiten

 Hiten Tejwani might soon be in another Ekta Kapoor show. While he is the blue-eyed boy of Balaji and has helped them out in many sticky situations in TV shows, he is also known as the replacement king. He has been doing Pavitra Rishta after he replaced Sushant Singh Rajput. But now, Ekta has planned a meaty role for him in her new show.

Celebrating Mahabharat’s success

 Producer duo Siddharth Kumar Tewary and Rahul Kumar Tewary threw a big bash recently to celebrate the success of their magnum opus Mahabharat on Star Plus. The cast as well as the crew were presented mementos and later they hit the dance floor.

Most of the people were busy clicking selfies with Saurabh Raaj Jain. Shaheer Sheikh was in jovial mood and was seen posing for shutterbugs. Veteran writer Salim Khan congratulated the Tewary brothers. Rohit Bhardwaj was heard talking about his future career plans. Pooja Sharma, Riya Deepshi and Veebha Anand partied together. Soodesh Berry was heard talking about his new show Bandhan.

A long story

 Balaji Telefilms's new show that stars Sonali Bendre finally has a name. Ekta earlier wanted Bade Dhoke Hai Is Pyaar Ki Raah Mein, but later switched to Yeh Kahan Aa Gaye Hum. Now she has finalised Ajeeb Dastaan Hai Yeh! The Life OK show stars Harsh Chhaya and Apurva Agnihotri in this love triangle.

Enjoying a break

Vivian Dsena is enjoying a break, as his show Madhubala recently wrapped up. He talks about the show, the rumours and his next move.

Madhubala saw a lot of ups and downs, including your relationship with the producers. How do you look back at the show?

I have gained a lot of experience. The show had a good run and was appreciated by the audiences. We actors work for appreciation from the viewers and I am glad we got plenty.

A lot has been written about problems between Drashti Dhami and you. Is there any truth in it?

I think people just find reasons to talk about something as normal behavior is not accepted by the media. So either it's a fight or an affair between the actors. I want to be happy, so I don't give much attention to all this. It doesn't matter to me.

There has been buzz about you doing a movie next. How true is it?

At present, I am meeting people. If anything clicks, I will surely go ahead with it.

There is another show Fanna, which is based on vampires. What do you think of this trend?

I haven't seen that show, so I can't comment on it. But yes, I am glad that the audience is accepting such kind of shows and giving them a positive response.

Any plans to start a family soon?

No, not yet.

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is August 27...

Born on August 27, the deity that watches over you will help guide you through your moments of struggle and inner turmoil, giving you strength to overcome even the most trying times. If ever there are times you feel weak, with the help of God you will be able to put everything back into perspective and focus. The combination of 2 and 7 adds a tone of selflessness and humanitarianism to your life path. The great strength of the Virgo-born is in their practicality, sharp mind and attention to detail.

Positive colours: Golden, White.

Select days: Tuesday, Friday.

Favourable numbers: 3, 6, 9.

Gems recommended: Red Coral, Yellow Sapphire.

Charity on Birthday: Donate green vegetables to the needy.

You share your birthday with Neha Dhupia (August 27, 1980, Cochin), the winner of Femina Miss India contest 2002. She made her Bollywood debut with the film Qayamat. Neha's stars and current astrological period indicate many awards in the next five years.

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Keep in mind that situations change and lucky breaks can be just around the corner. Try to increase your knowledge in new areas. Health will need more care in the evening. Tarot message: Lack of confidence can leave you in losses. Lucky colour: Coffee. Magic number: 28.

TAURUS: Take criticism constructively and accept praise graciously. Make the most of this low-key day because there is plenty of work in store for tomorrow. Money problem is likely to come to the fore. Tarot message: Don't make hasty decisions. Lucky colour: Burgundy. Magic number: 61.

GEMINI: Your chivalrous behaviour and sentiments strike the right note. Pack up your all cares and woes; have a good time. Influential people can be contacted without too much trouble. Tarot message: Don't waste an opportunity by being rash or impulsive. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 33.

CANCER: Browse the newspaper and web for that dream job because you can find exactly what you have been looking for. Arguments at home are likely to erupt. Career women will be in the limelight. Tarot message: Learn from past experience. Lucky colour: Beige. Magic number: 28.

LEO: If you have been feeling house-bound, arrange an outing with your partner. Refuse new assignments. Loved ones are unlikely to make a special demand upon you. An Arian friend will be supportive. Tarot message: Be articulate. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 65.

VIRGO: Show your love to those close to you through practical action rather than empty promises. Be careful while signing agreements. Family members can require your assistance. Tarot message: Try to accomplish tasks that normally take up a lot of time. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 27.

LIBRA: If something is already on your calendar, postpone it for a later date. It is time to impress your boss. You will be feeling competent to deal with work that requires creativity. Tarot message: Don't do anything at the cost of health. Lucky colour: Green. Magic number: 39.

SCORPIO: You will be in a cheerful mood today. Elderly people should take care of their health. Theatre artists will have a little difficulty gaining the right sort of publicity. Domestic bliss will be of high order. Tarot message: Make compromises and come to terms within yourself. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 25.

SAGITTARIUS: Women: you will have the money to shop to your heart's content. You can plan a profitable business trip. Those interested in modelling will get a suitable break. Perhaps doing your own thing is wiser. Tarot message: Be cautious to avoid losses. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 44.

CAPRICORN: Household expenses and mortgage seem to be pretty well covered now, but pleasurable indulgences might be eating into domestic expenses. Ignore unpleasant gossip. Tarot message: You shall prevent a lot of trouble by taking timely action. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 55.

AQUARIUS: Investments in property are possible. Shopkeepers can encounter an unruly customer. Politicians: some of you can figure in the news. Do not neglect your health due to busy schedule. Tarot message: Be positive and think carefully before taking action. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 64.

PISCES: Make the day a really enjoyable one and forget about work. Some of you may have lost interest in career ambitions and feel dismayed about future prospects. Tarot message: Do not swing away from the course you have charted so far. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 46.





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