Honey sticks to originality
The industry is all praise for Yo Yo Honey Singh's latest stint as the mentor of a new reality show...
Jasmine Singh

He lifted his lungi, wrapped it around, crossed Bootnath's alleys, hit the blue paani after two shots of vodka, partied hard and continued the 'tradition' on the stage of his first reality show - Yo Yo Honey Singh hit the Bollywood music industry like a hurricane, creating an uproar that can now be heard on his show as well. The music director, singer, rapper turns mentor for his first reality show, India's Raw Star for Star Plus.
Honey Singh takes a selfie with Gauhar Khan
Right click: Honey Singh takes a selfie with Gauhar Khan

And what a host at that, echo Bollywood and his fans; what a self-styled host, they add; what quirkiness, what punk selfies, what excitement! Honey Singh is already being compared to the likes of popular actors and TV hosts Salman and Shah Rukh Khan. Back in Punjab, where Honey Singh started off, youngsters swear by his self-made attitude, and wouldn't dare to miss a single episode!

Yo man!

The idea of India's Raw Star is to bring raw talent to the forefront — contestants are young, they sing in their unique style and no one is judging them except the audience! To top it all, Honey Singh is very unlike a host. As his friend, Many Aujla, who has also had a long-drawn work association with Honey, shares, "He is himself on the show; he is not an anchor or mentor who will say anything to garner TRPs, which is why we like him and precisely why the audiences liking him too!"

On the show, which is only a few episodes down, Honey Singh doesn't go on a useless rummage, trying to look for frivolous quotable quotes. Alfaaz, another popular singer, actor and writer from Maafia Mundeer, has worked extensively with Honey. He, too, is thumbs up for his stint on the show. "The show is on raw talent and that's exactly what you see. Honey doesn't overpower the show; talent does. And then he has a style of his own, nothing is copied. Where else do you see people taking selfies on the show?"

Issey kehtey hain style

He isn't sporting anything that is borrowed — formal suits, sleeveless tees - everything is very 'Yo Yo' style. Honey tags his unconventional style as his attitude. "I am a non-conformist, I don't go by a particular trend; I would wear whatever I think is trendy. The show is all about rawness in talented people, it's about the contestants, it is about being yourself. So, if everything is about being what we are, why should the style be borrowed?" says Honey Singh.

He is a mentor, friend and guide, and the show has been successful in breaking clichés. As Deepinder Singh Mauhar, Chandigarh-based art director and a fan of the show, says, "I have never been fond of reality shows, because they are evidently so unreal. But, this show is unique, first, because it has unique Honey Singh and second because there are no stupid jokes floated on air. It's as close to reality as possible."

jasmine@tribunemail.com

The lowdown on lowers
Don't let summertime madness hamper your style statement. Flaunt these trendy lowers to keep you cool as you walk the walk
Somya Abrol

When was the last time you saw a fashionable woman wear jeans? Or, alternately, when was the last time you saw a woman wearing jeans and thought to yourself 'this one looks hot!'? If you can't put a finger on the memory, you too are in the long list of fashion enthusiasts who are bored to death of the denim trend. And, in your heart, you know the effervescent jeans aren't really as comfortable as they're touted to be.

What seem to be winning women's hearts, and wardrobes, this season are off-beat pants and palazzos and dhoti pants and pajamas and what not! Call it a boho wave or just plain-old natural course of fusion, the chic pant trend is here to stay.

Chandigarh-based fashion designer Priyanka Khosla advocates the recent influx of palazzos. "Fashion is like a wave; it keeps returning in time. Palazzos are definitely in style this season. The only difference between the '70s palazzos and the ones in style now is the fact that the 2014 ones are high-waisted and better fitted. I prefer teaming them up with crop tops, for those who can afford to flaunt them. For others, who need to hide their love handles, a 19-inch top, just up to the belt, looks very boho-chic. And, if you're aiming at looking slimmer or taller, create a monochromatic effect by wearing the top and the bottom in the same colour. The outfit ends up looking like a gown, giving you a larger-than-life feeling. They look best in cotton and crepe."

And, if just the sight of your same old Patiala salwaar is making you sick, there's a way to give your kurtas a facelift without giving up on your Indian orientation. Ritu Kochhar, founder director, INIFD, says, "Dhoti pants are again an off-and-on trend. People spot celebs flaunting them at airports; being comfortable, they're very travel friendly, and they suit the Indian weather! But, make sure you have them only in cotton, lycra or khaadi. Have them tailored two inches above the ankle, and you have your twist!"

And then there are those who'd like their pants to reflect their no-nonsense attitude. Giving your office look an instant edge are the forever in-trend cotton pants. "Straight pants are the quickest way to add an edge to your outfit. In the '80s, they used to be available in synthetic and cotton. Now, they're available in linen and silk and the highlight of this trend is that now their length has been altered, making them fit like a dream! If you're slim, you can team them up with a georgette top for the day. Just add a pair of heels and a statement neckpiece for the evening and you're good to go! For those who prefer kurtas, team pants up with long, Pakistani kurtas," adds Kochhar.

somya@tribunemail.com

 
What: Brown leopard 
print pajamas

Available at: Myntra.com

Team it up with: Any brown/black t-shirt or short kurta

Price: Rs 497

What: Red printed 
straight pajamas

Available at: Myntra.com

Team it up with: Black and gold long kurta

Price: Rs 890



What: Polka-dotted 
palazzos

Available at: Lifestyle stores

Team it up with: 
White crop top

Price: Rs 1,299



What: Printed Patiala pants

Available at: Myntra.com

Team it up with: Orange knee-length kurta

Price: Rs 890

The stage beckons…
Actor Rana Ranbir returns to his roots of theatre with Khetan Da Putt
Jasmine Singh

He is a new man - blank eyes, undulated expressions, letting you in on his patterned thoughts - he has moved into something deep, deeper than the smile that his name has come to be synonymous with. Actor Rana Ranbir has moved to another stage. He had stood here almost 18 years ago, looking at the audience who watched him with rapt attention. 
Rana Ranbir
The reason & cause: Rana Ranbir 

And today, while it could be déjà vu for most, for Rana Ranbir, it's the inevitable. His play, Khetan Da Putt, goes into its eighth show at Tagore Theatre, Chandigarh, on Monday. Organised by Dr Tejinder Bhatti of Darling Buds, Chandigarh who is all for revival of theatre, this play has been compiled by Rana Ranbir and directed by his friend, Roopinderjit Sharma. More than excited, Ranbir is encountering peculiar thoughts: "I was feeling nervous before the start of the first show of Khetan Da Putt at Surrey, Canada. What if I forget lines? What if they laugh at me? What if I can never shake off the image of a comedian? I had to deal with all these thoughts as I stepped onto the stage," shares Rana, as he readies to take the stage again.

Deeply rooted

"I had already collected and compiled bits, pieces and stories, plays and poetry that I had read about Pash. I was thinking about turning them into a play, but I wasn't sure how I would do it, given the time constraint I am always trapped in. It was during the shoot of one of the Punjabi films that I discussed the idea with my friend, who decided to direct it. Pash sparks revolutionary ideas; I knew he would give me apt substance for a solo play. And here I am, back to where I started - theatre!"

One for passion

"I was so busy with films and shows that it didn't occur to me that there was always more to Rana Ranbir. I hadn't tasted the passion of being on stage, the without re-take moments, memorising lines. I owed it to myself."

Risking it

Firstly, memorising lines - the play requires me to speak for 70 minutes non-stop! Secondly, I wasn't sure if the audience would like such a play, they only see me doing comedy. My wife, Devinderpal Kaur and daughter have supported me. This marks my return to my world; I would keep coming back to it, frequently. 

STAR TRACK
Priyanka Chopra: I am a mermaid 
Priyanka Chopra talks about Mary Kom, Dil Dhadakne Do, getting into production and much more.

Casting for Mary Kom

That is for the producers to say. I don't know if the film would not be as big if it had a newcomer or an actress from the North-East. All I can say is that I was very excited when the film came to me. No actor would have said no to the chance of playing Mary Kom. I met her many times, stayed with her and with her help I have tried to portray her personality, her work and her struggles.

Mary Kom Vs Barfi!

I can't say if Mary Kom will be as good as Jhilmil in Barfi! But the truth is that both roles are completely different. I like challenging myself. Mary Kom was a very hard shoot for all of us but the story was very inspiring to me as a woman. A rice farmer's daughter from a small village (in Manipur) reaching where she has today is extremely commendable. I hope she will inspire others too.

Being on a cruise

I was not cut off. I had just finished Mary Kom and I had to stay in touch. I had to dub. There was so much to do. But it was incredible being on a cruise ship for 60 days, watching the Mediterranean go by. My mom came with me, my brother came to visit. I couldn't have asked for anything better. I did not get sea-sick. I love the ocean. I am a mermaid.

Getting into production

I'm an actor and I want to contribute to my sensibility of filmmaking. I don't think I can become a big producer like the other actors. I'll make smaller films, give chance to new talent. When I joined the industry, I did not know anyone and it was really tough. I want my production house to be accessible to people. I want to be there for anyone who wants to be in this business. I'm starting out with Madhur's (Bhandarkar) Madamji in which I am acting, but I'll also make films, which will not feature me.

On and off

Every two years I am written off and then for two years I'm applauded. It hasn't changed me. Neither am I dependent on someone else for my career, nor does someone else's career affect me. Mary Kom, Zoya's film, Krrish 3 - they are all very big films and I don't see the need to do a two-bit role in a film with a big hero. If I do a Don 2 or a Krrish 3 where the title role is being played by my co-actor, then it's because it also has a great role for me. 

Tahir on cloud nine

Tahir Raj Bhasin, who is seen as a child trafficker in Mardaani, is on cloud nine as Aamir Khan praised him for his acting skills. Aamir took to Twitter to share his views and in his tweet he had also mentioned Tahir as being superb in the film. The film has been made tax-free in three states.

"That was huge, I didn't sleep the whole night. I was forwarding the tweet to family and friends. I don't think there can be a bigger praise. So it's big for me. I was very skeptical of the way people were going to respond to the character. But critics liked it and then to hear it from Aamir Khan, it's huge. I cannot thank him enough," he said at a press meet.

Directed by Pradeep Sarkar, Mardaani stars Rani Mukerji in the role of a senior inspector Shivani Shivaji Roy who fights the child trafficking mafia. 

From theatres to book shelves!

Homi Adajania's upcoming film is set to release soon and the director reveals that it was adapted from a 200 page novel, which will also hit stands next year.

"My co-writer, Kersi Khambatta, wrote the novel based on my short story titled Finding Fanny, and then we used that to develop the screenplay. My only issue was that I told him to keep the book on ice until the film was out," says Homi Adajania.

The director adds that although he prefers reading a book to watching a film, he "wanted people to watch my film first". "Now that it is releasing soon, Kersi can pimp the novel to publishers. It's a funny read and way more convoluted than the script," he says.

Kersi Khambhatta says, "This process (of adapting a screenplay from a book) gave us lots of colour, description and detail to play with. It eventually lent itself to a fatter and fuller screenplay as well. Our main motive was to make the movie first. Now that it is done, publishers have expressed an interest in reading the original manuscript of the novel." Finding Fanny releases on September 12. 

Jessica is a mother on the go 

Sin City 2 star Jessica Alba says she is too independent to be a stay-at-home mother. The 33-year-old actress, who has children Honor, six, and two-year-old Haven, with husband Cash Warren, says she likes to still do movies because she wants to set an example for her children to show them they can go out and work to pay their own way in life, reported a website.

"I think it's different for everyone. Some mums really don't want to work and that's fine. For me, I wouldn't know what that is like because that's a part of who I am. I have aspirations," she said. "I want to be with my kids so they can see that in their life they can be anything they want and they can do their own thing and pay their own way. The independence that you gain from working is pretty awesome. My kids might be different when they grow up, but that's up to them," Alba added. — PTI 

Shuttling between looks

Shahid Kapoor went bald for Haider and now his hair have grown back. He is trying various looks for his next film, Shandaar. He is finalising a hairstyle that suits both Indian and Western clothes. We're looking forward to seeing his new hairstryle!

Meanwhile, the new song Aao Na from Haider is now available online. It is the song from the promos and we love its wild energy. We wonder how does Vishal Bhardwaj make memorable music every time?

Gwyneth Paltrow stops washing hair? 

Actress Gwyneth Paltrow has reportedly shunned using shampoo in order to restore her hair health. The 41-year-old actress is worried about the high chemical content in them, reported a publication.

"Gwyneth is worried about using shampoos that contain sodium lauryl sulphate, which has been shown to cause skin irritation - there are also concerns that it could be linked to organ toxicity and even cancers," a source said.

The Iron Man star apparently also takes vitamin C supplements in her diet, which helps in the production of a scalp oil, sebum, that works as a natural hair conditioner and prevents her locks from becoming dry, weak and lifeless. — PTI

Down but not out

Amitabh Bachchan is suffering from viral fever and has cancelled the shoot of his upcoming Piku. The 71-year-old actor began shooting for Shoojit Sircar's next, co-starring Deepika Padukone and Irrfan Khan, last week. "DAMN !! Just discovered.. Down with fever," he tweeted last evening. The actor is yet to recover from it and tweeted, "Still down! Shoot cancelled Not happy about that! But shall persevere and be up for it by the morrow.. Resting..!!" —PTI

Emraan’s last chance
We saw Raja Natwarlal and think that it is a timepass con film. Emraan Hashmi and Paresh Rawal are very good as they con Kay Kay Menon. Humaima Malick looks gorgeous in her revealing outfits. The songs are hummable. It is a typical, not-very-intelligent Emraan Hashmi fare. We hope it works because Emraan can't afford to give four flop films in a row.

Father to the rescue
Rumour has it that veteran actor Raj Babbar wants to re-launch his sons Arya and Prateik as they are not getting the right opportunities.

He believes that both his kids are talented and will find something soon. Let’s see if that happens.

No manual girl, this!
Parineeti Chopra has driven an Impala model, from 1964, in her upcoming film Daawat-E-Ishq. Since all the settings in the car were manual instead of automatic, it was difficult for her to drive the car.

The onscreen imposter
Versatile actor Paresh Rawal, who will be seen in Raja Natwarlal, will soon start shooting for a biopic on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He feels that he has been the right choice to play the role of the politician

tune in
Ode to the city
Manpriya Singh

It is not until Priyanka Chopra perched on Pitbull's lap, in Exotic, talks of being taken to 'Mumbai Cuba' or being as hot as the Tropic. Or for that matter In My City, where she feverishly paints a lovely picture of her city through psychedelic lights and lyrics that say, "I know there's no place like home, But I know you gonna like it in my city." Places don't just qualify for patriotic fervour but even lyrical melodies. The ever beautiful Hotel California by the Eagles being just a case in point. Taking stock of just a few of the countless popular songs dedicated to different cities.

Priyanka Chopra and Pitbull
Two to tango: Priyanka Chopra and Pitbull 

Hall of fame

Speaking of which, California that is, the song California Dreamin has always been and still remains the ever popular track. The song talks about the longing for the place. Or even the California Gurls by Katy Perry, where she announces, "Nothing comes close to the golden coast." While Hotel California has always been susceptible to several interpretations including the one given band Eagles as, "their version of the high life in Los Angeles," there is no mistaking Las Vegas as anything other than a partying spot or a gambler's paradise. Starting with Viva Las Vegas by Elvis Presley. From partying at the nightclubs we swiftly move to party by the beachside. The stupendously popular song Ibiza by the Vengaboys spells holidays, carefree time and partying by the Mediterranean Sea. "We are going to Ibiza, We're Gonna Have a Party," the lyrics are as infectious as catchy.

Then there's Rio De Janeiro, or lovingly referred to as Rio, the metropolitan in Brazil to have countless number of songs dedicated to it, including the Samba De Janeiro, the foot tapping Brazilian carnival song. Mention Vengaboys and how can the ever infectious To Brazil be far behind? Moving on, The Track Kingston Town by UB40, talks of the place where, "Stars shine so bright, there is magic in Kingston Town."

Blame it on the popular Hollywood culture or the most popular bands coming from there, but almost every place in the US has a song to its name. Be it the Sweet Home Alabama, proclaiming, "where the skies are blue," or be it the Chicago by King of Pop Michael Jackson. Even though the place finds only a passing reference in the song, "I met her on my way to Chicago, she was all alone."

Moving on, how can we forget New York City and the whole list of songs set up at the place, mentioning its name or referring to its skyline. While it is practically impossible to list the top hundred songs on New York City or its lanes, a few by the popular artists can be picked up at random. New York City by John Lennon is said to be not only inspired by his move to the city but also by the people he met and the friends he made there. From the super fast track by John Lennon to very slow New York by Frank Sinatra. While the song might be slow, it nevertheless speaks of fast paced life of the place. "I want to wake up in that city, that don't sleep."

Sift deeper into New York and there is Angel of Harlem by yet another popular band U2. So much so that the song begins with, "It was a cold and wet December day… When we touched the ground at JFK."

Youngster's take

Apart from the eternal favourite Hotel California that Eagles first came up with back in seventies, there are very few songs that remain on the youngsters' tips. "Even though I don't know the name of the original artist or band, but Jamaican Farewell is one of my favourites. The song has slightly touching lyrics but has very happy music," shares Devika Minhas final year hospitality student. The track sums up the place in the opening stanza with, "Down the bay where the nights are gay, and the sun shines daily on the mountain top. I took a trip on a sailing ship and when I reached Jamaica I made a stop." From the mountain tops to sailing ships, from the soaring skylines to sprawling spaces; each place has something unique to offer and if the lyrics and music cash in on those characteristics, nothing like it.

manpriya@tribunemail.com

Weight watch
Catch them young
Renupreet Kaur

Parents are usually worried about their kids' health. There are many reasons to worry, if your child is in the overweight or obese category. He or she may develop health related issues, which make it hard for them to keep up with their friends. Parents and other caretakers can play an important role in helping their wards to build healthy eating habits, which will last their lifetime.

Be a role model

Before healthy lessons are imparted to your wards, you will have to become a role model. They will learn from the family culture, practices and attitudes towards eating. Healthy eating by parents is sure to benefit their children.

Healthy preferences

Hectic schedules of many parents leads to their dependency upon ready made foods. But on the other hand, homemade food can also be quick and healthy with a little bit of creativity. You can make healthy salads in no time. Healthy colourful sandwiches can be a better option over deep fried snacks like samosas and hot dogs.

Well-balanced food

Serve healthy well balanced food to your wards, which will not only result into good physical health but also enhance their mental ability. Never pressurise your children to eat more, rather over eating should always be avoided. They should be advised to take food according to their appetite. Healthy eating can be encouraged by imparting colour, texture to the dishes. A tempting egg roll or a low fat cheese tortilla would be a healthy option for an evening snack.

Goodbye to picky foods

High calorie foods which are rich in fat, sugar and salt like cakes, chocolate, cookies, doughnuts, ice cream, French fries, potato chips, energy drinks and sweetened hot or cold drinks should be avoided. Let children themselves pick out fruits and veggies at the store. They should be encouraged for their healthy selections.

Limit pass time activities

Keep an eye on the time your child spends on inactive pastime activities like watching TV, playing cards or playing on electronic devices. Such activities lead to unnecessary munching on unhealthy snacks which lead to weight gain. Try to engage them in extra curricular activities or persuade them to have a simple walk to divert them from unnecessary binge eating.

First meal of the day

First meal of the day should be a well planed breakfast that will fuel your child for the day ahead. Skipping breakfast means that the skippers will tend to eat more food than usual at their next meal or nibble on high-calorie snacks to stay off hunger. A powerful breakfast will refuel your child physically as well as mentally.

Eat together

Eating together while sitting around a table or sharing meals from a common bowl, all these activities not only help to add cohesiveness in the family but also help your child to eat right in right proportion.

Maintain a routine

A regular eating schedule not only helps your child to be in good state of health but also prevents him from overeating during the day. Early or late risers should have their own routines at proper time with proper amounts. Small and frequent meals would be better chosen over one large heavy meal.

(Renupreet Kaur is diet therapist and

obesity expert)

stress buster
Forgive and forget
Renee Singh

Why did my friend say such nasty words to me? You can spend the whole day in stress because you just can't get over it. You simply can't stop thinking of something unfair that happened that morning, even though a week has gone by the words are still fresh in your mind. Well this is a human tendency to obsess,t rying to work things in the mind. This is a common habit with a lot of us, but when these thoughts start turning more negative and brooding we term it as ''rumination''.

Rumination is a fairly common state with most of us. According to a survey 95 per cent of people are in a rumination mode some time or the other and most often. But it can be harmful to emotional and physical health.

Basics of rumination are two separate variables - reflection and brooding.

Reflection is the part of rumination is actually helpful because it has been seen that

n When we reflect on a problem we reach a solution.

n Reflecting on certain events helps to process strong emotions associated with an issue. However rumination in general and brooding in particular gets associated with less proactive behaviour and more of negative moods.

Co-rumination is when you rehash a situation with friends. This could create more stress for both parties as sometimes you grill the situation too much. In actuality if you constantly replay a situation in your mind and dwell on the injustice of it and keep thinking about what you should have said or done without actually taking any action you are going to start feeling more stressed.

Toll of rumination can be extremely irresistible in some situations, you could spend an entire hour ruminating before you even realise that you are deeply involved in obsessing over it.

Negative effects of rumination

Stress factor

This can lead to raised cortisol levels and send you into a different state. This also signifies a physical response to stress.

Mood change

Rumination has a negative effect that can change your mood completely. It can produce a more depressed and unhappy mood.

Pessimist outlook

Although rumination in itself is unpleasant it can also trigger a whole new set of consequences by generating pessimism.

Less practical

People presume that ruminating will give them relief. They ruminate with the intention of working through a problem and finding a solution. Research shows rumination is association to less proactive behaviour; this in turn contributes to downward spiral of negativity.

Self sabotage

Rumination sometimes creates more stress and generates a self destructive cycle.

Health risks

Rumination prolongs the stress response putting unnecessary pressure on the heart. There are many health risks involved here.

We know and understand that obsessing is affecting us adversely but learning how to put brakes on our rumination is vital.

Let go

Learn to let go of stress and anger and hang on to peace.

Expressive writing

Many people find this helpful in letting go of stress, research confirms this.

Meditation helps

Benefits of this have been told innumerable times. A key ingredient is to learn to focus on present and let go of the past, this prevents the mind from focusing in fears, which are baseless and self created.

Forgive please

This tends to ease our mind and thus facilitate in stress reduction.

(Singh is a Chandigarh based psychotherapist)

It’s Happening
Shopping time

The Mrignayanee chain of emporia is a unique marketing outlet to display and sell a wide range of products which comprise the poetry woven in Chanderi, Maheshwari and tussar sarees, suits, dress material, readymade, home and office furnishings, handicrafts, jewellery and gift items. The highly developed skills of weavers, craftsmen and artisans reflect the glory of Madhya Pradesh through the products manufactured by them. 

World famous Chanderi sarees are always a part of attraction for all age groups. Thousands of unique colours with zari work, around 5,000 varieties of Chanderi range are available here. Traditional and printed Chanderi sarees and suits are available in sale. Through these emporia MP Handicrafts and Handloom Development Corporation Ltd is not only rendering the much needed support for the development and marketing of the products of handloom and handicraft sector, customers can find these things in our short period exhibition at Lala Lajpat Rai Bhawan, Chandigarh.

You will also find Gaj Lakshami Deep that weighs 35kg from Tikam Garh, MP brought by national awardee Panna Lal Soni. This is available for Rs 80,000. Also, here is Chanderi jangla saree by State awardee Mohamad Abrar Ansari for Rs 70,000. Customer will also get Up to 20 per cent discount on all items. On at Lajpat Rai Bhawan, Sector 15 till September 7. — TNS

TRENDSETTER
Get sporty

Pallavi Kochar We are already looking for designs to incorporate in our attire for the coming 'fall' season and most youngsters fall in line where as the latest trends are concerned. We all love it knowing if its drainpipe jeggings or flared plazzos that one must go for. Pallavi Kochar a student of interior design at INIFD is all for suitability.

Your sense of style

A stylish personality has to look cool, comfortable and attired in dresses which are in accordance with the body silhouette.

Latest addition to your treasure of clothing or accessories…

A one piece netty black dress.

Brand crazy or street pick ups?

A clever mix of both with suitability being the key factor.

Which look would your prefer — sporty, chic or glamorous?

Sporty would be the best.

My style icon would be…

Most of the times it is Sonam Kapoor.

Who do you think is the worst dressed celebrity?

Again Sonam Kapoor, for sometimes her sense of dressing up really goes haywire.

One fashion trend that goes beyond your comprehension…

Today's very wide plazzo type lowers don't gel with me.

Your take on accessories?

Generally I keep off accessories but sometimes if the occasion demands - a piece or two.

If given the chance you would like to be dressed by a designer…

No one in particular till now.

What gives you a high on the confidence Level?

It is one's own feeling of 'looking attractive and well turned out' and the ensuing compliments which boosts up one's confidence level

— As told to Poonam Bindra

STAR TRACK
Money matters

With Bigg Boss soon to go on air once again in the first week of October, we bring you some interesting details about the show. The eighth edition of the show will have Salman Khan as a host. After charging Rs 3.5-4 crore last year reportedly, this year, rumours are that Salman Khan will take home Rs 5-6 crore every week. This is the highest ever paid to a film star for a TV show. The show that will span 90 days costs the channel Rs 110-120 crores. The channel has got some good sponsors on board and has increased the advertising rates too.

Hit me baby one more time!
Dashing Parv Kaila recently got slapped not once, not twice but 30 times by his co-star Aneri while shooting a scene of their up and coming show, Nisha Aur Uske Cousins, that will be telecast on Star Plus. For a particular scene in the show, Aneri Vajani aka Nisha had to slap her on-screen brother, Parv Kaila, who plays the role of Suketu in the show, but to get the take right, Aneri ended up slapping Parv 30 times. After a point, the repeated slaps led to Parv's ear turning red. According to sources on the set, Parv took it in his stride and continued with the shoot without complaining. He was seen asking Aneri to hit him hard so that he gets the exact reaction, which the director was looking for.

It’s Show time
Karan Sharma, of Ek Nayi Pehchaan fame, will be going to Durban in November for a concert. The channel is taking him, Mohit Malik, Prince, from Dance India Dance and Mishkat Varma for a show called Live in Concert. He is over the moon about meeting his fans.

Go party, it’s her birthday!
Actress Ankita Bhargava, who is currently seen in the show, Ek Nayi Pehchan, kept a house party for her friends to celebrate her birthday, which turned out to be a rocking one for all. Her Ek Nayi Pehchan co-stars including, Poonam Dhillon, Karan Sharma, Sooraj Thapar and Namish Taneja and her best friends, Roopal Tyagi, Rishina Khandari, and Dheeraj Dhoopar from the industry joined the celebrations. 
Roopal says, "Friendship is a very important part of my life and friend's birthday is always special." Rishina Kandhari adds, "Life without friends is like food without salt. We are blessed to have each other as friends."

Just good friends?
Though Anas Rashid and Rati Pandey have been seen together in public, the actors claim that they are just good friends. Repeatedly, rumours about their relationship have surfaced, but they have always denied it. Now, once again, buzz is that Anas and Rati will get married next year and plans are set in motion. But when we asked the couple, they rubbished the rumours. We guess, only time will tell!

From the horse’s house
Celebrity chat show, Har Ghar Kuch Kehta Hai, which was earlier telecast on Sony, will soon make a comeback on Colors. It focuses on celebrities and their homes and reliving memories of homes they grew up in.

Rock and role

Ravi Dubey is thrilled to be starring in a show, which is not a Saas Bahu saga. After his last show, Saas Bina Sasuraal, he is now a part of the show, Jamai Raja.
Why did you choose the role?

It is a wonderful show, and has a new and interesting concept too. So, I thought to my self, why not? Also, I play the lead role in the show. The story unravels from a male's perspective, which is quite exciting.

Tell us something about the role…

Sidharth is an extension of my personality. He likes to be around people and I love people's company too. I love it if people around me are happy as does he. Even Sargun Mehta, my wife, shares the same trait. 

Did you enjoy hosting TV shows that you did recently?

Yes, I simply love the stage. It is all about being spontaneous and the audience's response was great too. I could improvise and polish my art of mimicry. I even rapped. Hosting makes you a performer and it bettered me as an actor. 

How are your co-stars on the show?

Nia Sharma is a fabulous actor. I am so glad that she is opposite me in the show. She is a good friend so there is no awkwardness between us. Achint and I get along well too. 

With you and Sargun being so busy with shoots, how do you find time for each other?

It's a huge problem as we both are always busy shooting and by the time we reach home, we are both tired. But I believe in spending quality time than quantity. We ensure that we manage to spend decent time with each other daily somehow.

The year ahead 
Madan Gupta Spatu
If your birthday is September 1...

Incidentally, your birthday falls on 'Santan Saptmi Fast', which you may also observe for your children or your parents and have for your good health as per the Shastras. You will realise that certain things are not quite right and will try to reduce the damage done by asking your co-workers for help. You will be slightly insolent towards your partner. Continue being determined and you will be very successful. You will be super sensitive and your beloved and will react positively to your altruistic gesture towards a friend with financial problems. 

Positive colours: Golden, red, brown, cream, white, orange and purple
Select days: Sunday and Monday
Favourable numbers: 1, 4, 2, and 7
Gems recommended: Yellow sapphire, red coral and ruby.
Charity on birthday: Donate white clothes/school dress /white edible items to needy or at a religious place today.

Ram Kapoor You share your birthday with Ram Kapoor (September 1, 1973, Mumbai) an actor, who made his on screen debut with serial called Nyay and appeared in some films. Ram Kapoor has one and three numbers in the date, which indicate lot of wealth though art and acting. 

 

Astro Yurf 
P Khurrana

ARIES: You will win over an enemy or an adversary today. Family life may witness some tension. Financially, the first half of the day may bring expensive expenditures your way.

Tarot message: Do not swing away from the course you have charted so far.

Lucky colour: Mauve

Magic number: 49

TAURUS: Those, who are more spiritually inclined or who want to stay calm, are likely in search of solitude. Love life will pass through a rough phase. Businesspersons will have a tricky day.

Tarot message: Be positive and think carefully before taking action.

Lucky colour: Turquoise

Magic number: 42

GEMINI: "The Universe" favours progress in your profession life. Be wary of a situation, where it would be easy to make a mistake in haste. Distant affairs will become more favourable as the day progresses. Tarot message: Do not let anyone get the advantage over you.

Lucky colour: Bottle green

Magic number: 25

CANCER: You card "The Moon" reveals a romantic interest. If you have a lover, this is the day to treat them to a generous gift or an intimate dinner date. Fortune can smile on you today.

Tarot message: Do not be too certain about obtaining a clearance.

Lucky colour: Purple

Magic number: 38

LEO: An unexpected bonus could appear in your pay check as a raise may be in the offing. Buy the right outfit for your sports or exercise program. Dress for success to make a great impression.

Tarot message: Do not swing away from the course you have charted so far.

Lucky colour: Yellow

Magic number: 29

VIRGO: Fresh strategies are likely in order, but initially, they may be somewhat hit-and-miss as you iron the bugs. Avoid speculation. Love life will be easy and good. You will feel great with your renewed energy. 

Tarot message: Capitalise on your strength and do not trust others.

Lucky colour: Orange

Magic number: 60

LIBRA: Boring routine jobs can be made more bearable through teamwork. Stress, related to financial issues may weigh heavy on your mind. You may be feeling vulnerable to the criticism of neighbours or friends. 

Tarot message: Focus on better to mitigate the bitter.

Lucky colour: Black

Magic number: 59

SCORPIO: Many of you will scurry to be on time, frantically trying to complete all the tasks on full to-do lists before the day is out. Make extra efforts to conclude pending projects. Secrecy of plans will help you at place of work. 

Tarot message: Impatience will lead to failure.

Lucky colour: Cream

Magic number: 54

SAGITTARIUS: Caring conversations and heart-to-heart talks flow easily. Stay confident. Health problems can be handled successfully. This is a good day for both buying and selling property.

Tarot message: Unfinished business will unleash new problems.

Lucky colour: Grey

Magic number: 39

CAPRICORN: A burst of domestic enthusiasm can sweep into cleaning and decorating your home. Senior bureaucrats should focus on secret files and documents. Do not carry heavy cash. 

Tarot message: You need to cultivate understanding & humility.

Lucky colour: Ebony

Magic number: 63

AQUARIUS: Difference of opinion within the family could reach a boiling point. Do not compromise on financial issues. Bright day for intellectuals and astrologers.

Tarot message: If you are tempted to travel overseas don't waste money by financing the trip yourself.

Lucky colour: Saffron

Magic number: 27

PISCES: If you are not okay about a relationship, finance or career issues, take positive action rather than stewing about it. The employed will have to work overtime.

Tarot message: Accomplish those tasks, which take up a lot of time.

Lucky colour: Camel

Magic number: 40





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