From expendable to dependable
Lead vocalist of band Faridkot Inderpreet Singh is expanding his horizon—a commercial that is sending the mercury soaring, a film offer in kitty and of course, the theme Mastaaney for Expendables 3, which is topping the popularity charts

Unassuming, swinging off to the oblivious, often coming out to get a reality check, for those who claim to know him well are, in fact, the ones in for a surprise. Bundle of nerves at one moment, slipping into deep silence next, Inderpreet Singh, IP Singh as he is known, is rising like the tempo of his songs.

First, it is the most talked about anthem for the film Expendables 3 (the Hindi version) and he is all over the youtube for the Flying Machine advertisement, which is apparently a run away success. And then comes his stints in Hindi films. Inderpreet, unlike other bands, has chosen to maintain a right balance between his individual work and his band, Faridkot.

For someone who couldn't settle in a corporate set-up, for someone who wouldn't settle for anything that doesn't align with his heart- music, bands, films and acting-everything has followed a course of its own.

Band-o-bast

"The story about how our band came into being has more or less been talked about. The changes that the band underwent is not news either, but what makes news to me is the fact that despite the glitches, we have decided to play on," says IP, who along with the lead guitarist Raj and other members, make it a point to keep the energy of the band flowing.

IP doesn't rubbish the disintegration of music bands. "Music brings people together, they decide to make a band, they play, do gigs, but this doesn't mean people will lose their identity. Eventually someone gets interested in something else and they decide to move on. This is as simple as you can see," says this lead vocalist of Faridkot, who along with his friend Raj, is always open to new musicians.

Music & more

Music is not just about singing or head banging. "It's a high that elevates me and joins me with the creation," shares IP experimenting with tunes and giving them an interesting turn always.

But the swashbuckler that he is, the journey of discovering different sounds of music, gets him to discover more about himself as well. "I want to act, I have done theatre for a while, and I am a craving to play a substantial role," he adds. The Flying Machine ad is just one peek-a-boo into how ready he is for this. "I have been receiving a 'good job' messages from friends and those who have seen me in the advertisement. Nevertheless, it doesn't end here. "Hindi films have often shown a Sikh as a jester. I want to change that and do a role which has depth. In addition to this, of course, I want to do a lot of film music."

While he talks about his future plans, which includes international projects and collaborations, IP has not forgotten about the point where it all started. “I would make a conscious effort to keep Faridkot going even when I or my band members are busy with other things in life.”

Being himself

The anthem Mastaaney for Expendables 3 has definitely been noticed. "I would be doing more of film music. However, my word is 'being yourself' in music and that helps my thoughts and passion to expand." In fact, IP believes that life can have a life changing effect, especially on the kids. "This is what I want to do with music."

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Up beat
Jazim Sharma has arrived. A successful stint with Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, a single titled Bismillah and now a three-film deal as a music director, what else can you wish for?
Mona

Winning thousands of hearts as the Shehzada-e-Ghazal on Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, Jazim Sharma already enjoys quite a fan following. Now, he is reaching out to them with his single, Bismillah. Sufi in nature, his track also released in the electro version. And, that's not all. This Bhatinda boy has signed three films as a music director and is raring to go.

In Chandigarh recently, Jazim shares how happy he is about the way life is shaping up. With his heart set to be a singer, he started learning music when he was just five and has continued to seek guidance from his guru till now. They say you get what you set your heart to, and Jazim validates. "I loved listening to Shankar Mahadevan right from my childhood days, and the only show I ever followed was Zee's Sa Re Ga Ma Pa. To become the top five contestants on my favourite show under the guidance of Shankar Ji was all I could ask for."

Happy at how ghazals are getting such a warm response from the audience, Jazim is living his dream of giving music for films. "I have signed three films—Bande, Ehsaas and Sialkoti and I am enjoying the work," says Jazim, who wants to take forward his love for ghazals and composing hand-in-hand.

Why ghazals? Aren't they a dying genre? "Precisely that's why. The solace I get from singing ghazals is unparalleled. I am so glad post Sa Re Ga Ma Pa so many youngsters have started listening and appreciating ghazals."

Reality shows are hard work and also a matter of chance. He affirms, "How else would you be getting selected among the lucky few who get to be part of the show from the lakhs who appear for auditions," says the singer who says the real test starts once on the show. "Singing in front of the likes of Pandit Jasraj or Vishwa Mohan Bhatt is not a mean feat. You don't want to let yourself down in front of the masters," he adds.

Right now happy at the way his single Bismillah has turned out and the initial response he has got, Jazim is ecstatic and is aiming at many more!

Success trail
To make a mark among lakhs of strugglers who show up in Mumbai is not easy. Singer Jazim Sharma is happy for his roommate in Mumbai-- the Chandigarh boy Abhishek Sharma who is getting to act in the three films Jazim is composing music for.

"I was literally without any work for close to a year," says Abhishek who has done a number of music videos and a Punjabi film U n Me. "I got substantial roles in Bande, Ehsaas and Sialkoti that Jazim Bhai is giving music in."

Cross your heart
Guess what! The humble teenage fashion accessory cross-body bags now have walked up the red carpet and making a fashion statement as a formal accessory
Mona

Elsa Pataky at Guardians of the Galaxy premiere
chic choice: Elsa Pataky at Guardians of the Galaxy premiere

What once bore a teenage stamp has made a marvellous comeback and how...Cross-body bags have always been around. But thanks to Elsa Pataky for bringing bring it back with a bang at Guardians of the Galaxy premiere in London early this month where she teamed it up with Dolce & Gabbana lace dress. And, she did carry it with aplomb looking all fresh, comfy and stylish - all at the same time.


Thinkstock photo

In this part of the world, jholas have been here for long. Usually made in cloth and carried across the shoulder, they, however, spell convenience over style. Yes, college-goers flaunt them in bright colours, mostly teamed up with mirror work.

So, if you haven't yet made the most of this really cool accessory that allows you carry your essentials without worrying too much on how and where to carry or keep it, here's a low down by Ritu Kochar, corporate director, INIFD:

nChoose style in keeping with the occasion - small, smart pieces that can carry your phone, lipper and compact to go with your formal wear and bigger bags that can carry a notebook or I- pad for college-goers.

nThere are plenty of colours, patterns and materials to choose from. Neons are doing well and there are bags in cloth, leather, plastic and what not. Pick one that goes with your dress.

nWomen who are top heavy need to be extra careful while wearing this trend. Go for smaller pieces.

bag it
Bet you will find a cross-body bag in any store you will step in. We get you pretty options:
  • Contrast colours or prints, Guess has an exciting option. Here you get pieces starting at Rs 2,500
  • If solid is your style Charles and Keith has a colourful collection with bags in red, yellow, blue, silver, gold with daintily chain. We loved the one in fiery orange, starting Rs 5,500.
  • Hidesign has a large professional collection at Rs 5,000 onwards.
  • Da Milano at Elante has a most extensive collection. Fetch a smallest one just big enough to carry a lipper and phone or card in pretty pink or to suit your I-pad or notebook at Rs 5,000 onwards. They have options for men too.

mona@tribunemail.com

the ‘in’ side
Of green & yellow hue
Chartreuse, the yellow-green colour that is gaining popularity in the interiors, is one of the hottest hues for the 2014 season
Sukhmani

Chartreuse, pronounced as 'shahr-trohz', is the name given to a yellow-green colour that is gaining popularity as far as the interiors are concerned. Although not a new concept in the world of colour, chartreuse is taking its well-deserved spot as one of the hottest hues for 2014. We'll be seeing chartreuse over and over again, not only in accessories, but also incorporated in upholstered pieces, painted furniture, paint, even kitchen cabinetry. As lovely as it is, chartreuse is most certainly a very strong colour…it's neither green nor yellow, but is in fact a beautiful mixture of both. I tend to like shades like this, those in between two primary colours, for their versatility. The spectrum within this colour ranges from bright lime to light sulphur.

The name chartreuse comes from a French liqueur made by Carthusian monks in the French Alps. As you probably would have already guessed, the colour of the liqueur is a beautiful, clear yellow-green.

I have loved chartreuse for decades. It adds just the perfect pop to nearly any colour scheme. The colour immediately adds sophistication and style. When combined with dark colours like black and browns, and in rich textures, chartreuse adds a warm, luxurious, and almost sensuous feel to a room. In its lighter, softer form chartreuse makes a great wall colour for earthy, nature-inspired rooms. In its boldest, brightest form it is as eye-catching as neon. Chartreuse can be both earthy and electric. It looks wonderful with reds, oranges and blues, especially turquoise and cobalt. It looks crisp with bright white and neutrals.

Chartreuse is very popular in modern design. It is a playful, vibrant colour that adds excitement to a tired scheme or one that needs a suggestion of light shining through a window. Use this colour to your advantage to add cheer and creativity to a space with limited architectural details.

(Sukhmani is a Chandigarh-based interior and landscape designer)

A resolute social angle
Mixing business and social work is the recently launched Big Day Event Company, with its initiative — The Big Day Indian Hunger Challenge
Amarjot Kaur

Chandigarh-based Big Day Event Management Company was officially launched with a social cause — The Big Day Indian Hunger Challenge — on Monday. Comprising the former Infosys employee Shipra Goyal and former chartered accountant with Pricewaterhouse Coopers, Ranjana Singh, who are working together with Gaurav Goyal, Jai, and Chilman, the stakeholders of the company, talk about their business and social interests.

"We all are artistes at heart and that we come from the IT sector, we are also equipped with the knowledge of finance, so this business endeavour is the amalgam of our creative talent and academic knowledge," shares Gaurav Goyal, owner of SGA Real Estates and Libaas Trendz. He is supporting The Big Day Event Management Team. While talking about The Big Day Indian Hunger Challenge, with which the company was launched, Ranjana Singh shares that it started 48 hours ago and the movement already has over 1,500 likes on the Facebook page. "Just like the Ice Bucket Challenge, people from different parts of the country, including Abohar, Sangrur, Chandigarh, Mandi Gobindgarh, Gurgaon, Varanasi and Manipal, have taken up this challenge, which has helped feed over 60 people so far, and the number keeps growing," she says.

An initiative of the Big Day Event Management Company, it is an effort to reach out to the underprivileged and feed them, click selfies or personal photos and hash tag it to the id_bigdayindianhungerchallenge.

"We are living in a nation of many underprivileged people who do not have even two square meals a day. In such scenario, when the technology has knit us together, we decided to use it to spread a social cause," says creative director Chilman Sahni. The members of the company have worked with slum kids of NGO Theatre Age on Independence Day celebrations and are also offering event management solutions to people according to their budgets.

Shipra and Ranjana further share, "The company has arrangements for all kind of intimate, personalised and formal events. Apart from social as well as commercial events, we also facilitate services of singers, live bands, comedians and various Pollywood as well as Bollywood personalities".

amarjot@tribunemail.com

Walk in the mall!
Chandigarhmalls.com, a website designed by Sahil Bharat, provides a wealth of information to the mall-goers in Tricity
Manpriya Singh

Initially, as an outsider, he faced the problems of what, when and where? Eight malls to choose from and no information whatsoever! If only a few clicks could take him to all the brands that each of these malls house, what deals were on offer and how to contact them? Chandigarhmalls.com came into being as an endeavour to simplify things. Shares Sahil Bharat, the founder of the website, "I so wanted to make a website that would provide all the required information in one go. As a double post-graduation in humanities could not help much, I enrolled myself for a web designing course at a local institute," he shares, currently a store manager at a jewellery store at Elante Mall. "I have been staying in Chandigarh for the last five years and been working on this website for six months now. It will be useful not just to residents of Chandigarh, but also to anyone interested in shopping in the Tricity."

Close observation of people while at his workplace further helped things, "People show a keen interest in shopping at the malls in the city but have no clue as to what all places, offer discounts. Even the websites of these malls themselves don't show information in a user-friendly manner. One has to really search for addresses and contact numbers too." He adds, "It was quite a task to convince the brand managers and store owners to share their information and contact details. We went to each and every shop, collected their store cards and convinced them."

Rewards followed only once the arduous task of collecting the data was finished. "I launched this website in June and it has already received 7,000 hits, including 1,000 registered members." He adds, "I am in talks with the owners of various restaurants and eating joints; very soon one would be able to book tables on my website. Apart from this, one would also be able to book for spas."

Apart from the user-friendly floor-wise segregation of shops, after free registration one can receive information on all the running offers as and when they come.

Check out

  • Elante Mall
  • DT Mall
  • Centra Mall
  • North Country Mall
  • Wave City Emporium Mall
  • Piccadily Square Mall
  • Fun Republic Mall
  • Inox Shalimar

Doc Talk
More than just skin-deep...
Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that needs to be cured in time
Dr Sukhdeep Kaur

Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that causes skin cells to grow and repair too quickly, resulting in thick, white, silvery or red patches. Normally, skin cells grow gradually and flake off about every four weeks whereas in psoriasis they repair in seven days. They build up and form thick patches called plaques .The patches range in size from small to large. They most often appear on the knees, elbows, scalp, hands, feet, or lower back. Psoriasis is most common in adults. But children and teens can get it too.

Approximately one-third of the patients with psoriasis have a positive family history.

Psoriasis is not contagious disease.

80% of Psoriasis patients get flare-ups during winter; only 20% get them during summer.

Triggering factors include cold, pregnancy, stress, trauma, smoking, alcohol, HIV, infections; drugs like lithium, beta blockers, systemic corticosteroids, and various painkillers like aspirin, dispirin, diclofenac, homeopathic, ayurvedic medicines and oils.

Generally psoriasis is limited to the scalp, elbows, knees and back; however it can degenerate into full-blown psoriasis called Erythrodermic Psoriasis .This calls for immediate hospital care as lot of metabolic complications, protein loss, electrolyte disturbances can occur. Hence, if you feel your psoriasis is increasing all of a sudden, it's time to visit your dermatologist immediately.

Psoriasis is associated with Arthritis, Depression, Obesity, Diabetes Mellitus (type 2), and cardiovascular disease.

The treatment of psoriasis varies according to severity of the disease. In mild cases, emollients and steroid creams can be applied.

In moderate to severe cases immunosuppressive drugs like Methotrexate, cyclosporine, retinoids are given under strict advice of dermatologists. With these drugs, certain blood tests like complete blood count, lipid profile, renal and liver function tests are important.

The use of UV rays in psoriasis is also important; sunlight is considered good in case of psoriasis. Phototherapy chambers provide the particular UV rays in required amounts and they help treat psoriasis.

Newer drugs like biological agents have shown promising results too, but are expensive and are given in hospital care only. Biologic agents are medicines made from substances found in living organisms. These lab-manufactured proteins or antibodies are injected into the skin or bloodstream. Once inside the body, the biologic agent blocks some part of the altered immune system that contributes to psoriasis.

Essential fatty acids and antioxidants also help cure psoriasis.

Psoriatic patients should avoid triggering factors like infections, pain killers, 'desi' medicines, stress and have a positive outlook to fight the disease.

(Dr Kaur is a Chandigarh-based dermatologist)

Comic note
Another Punjabi film is on its way. Promising a different take, it is aptly titled Zara Hatt Ke
Mona

It's an age of promotions and an age of Punjabi films. Every alternate day, if not every, a film is announced, poster unveiled, its star cast announced, music launched or if all goes well…the movie released! Monday wasn't any different in Chandigarh, since all films claim to be 'different' in the Punjabi film industry, this one to emphasise even more (probably) is titled only Zara Hatt Ke!

Yes, it's a new production house…Pollywood Films. We get to be in the audience of three producers, apparently entrepreneurs who claim to be investing Rs 4.5 crore in their maiden project. The film has comedy and action in a very 'different' way hence the title! It's a story that addresses social evils, corruption in particular. The star cast is yet to be locked; there sure is one Aman Randhwa. And yet to finalise Arya Babbar or Amrinder Gill depending on the dates they give. The film announcement had two songs sung by the singers that are going to be part of film. We agree Ae vatan is what we liked the most about the whole event on Monday that lasted half-an-hour. The director Bhagwant Singh Kang, who has also done the story and screenplay of this film, has already completed shooting for film Saau Munde, which he intends to release by the year end.

With a recent Punjabi film from a Bollywood doyen failing to find favour with viewers (despite favourable reviews), those present question the merit of this film and the viability of the project. It's the choreographer and assistant director Sunita Singh who takes the bull by horns, "No film ever fails (we wonder why). Bollywood too gives flop films yet you give them a chance, we should give a chance to Pollywood too. And, if we think positive we can give a quality film in Pollywood too." Amen!

mona@tribunemail.com

star track
Depressing fact

After playing suicidal characters in two of his upcoming films, superstar Al Pacino says he might be suffering from depression.

Pacino stars in The Humbling as an ageing theatre actor, who has an affair with a younger woman, whereas in Birdman, he plays a suicidal theatre actor, who cannot seem to find the stage.Al Pacino

"I may be depressed but I don't know about it. People go into depression and it's very, very sad and it can last and it's terrifying. I know that, I've had bouts with stuff that comes close to that, but not with that intensity. I feel spared, I feel lucky."

"How does it go? You say I'm depressed? Life is sort of like all over us. Things make you sad. Basically you'd like to be a little happier sometimes. But 'depressed' seems so ominous. It's really in all of us. We all relate to it," he said.

And Pacino revealed that his kids make him happy most of all.

"I have three children. That's been a real source of enlightenment for me, plus the friends I've had, the people I've met over the years, the relationships I've had. All of it has contributed to an amazing, shocking journey I've had so far. I feel as though I'm doing OK," he said. — PTI

Real effect: Al Pacino

Big B down with fever

Megastar Amitabh Bachchan is down with fever and says that he had to cancel the shooting due to health reasons.

Currently, the eighth season of Kaun Banega Crorepati and Shoojit Sircar's Piku are keeping the 71-year-old busy.

Amitabh Bachchan"DAMN!! Just discovered... Down with fever!! (sic)," he tweeted Saturday night.

"Still down! Shoot cancelled! Not happy about that! But shall persevere and be up for it by the morrow ... Resting," he posted on Twitter on Sunday.

He also thanked his fans for sending good wishes for his recovery.
Sick leave: Amitabh Bachchan

Work over Ganpati

Actor Neil Nitin Mukesh, who is making his Tamil debut with upcoming action film Kaththi, is away from home and missing out the ongoing Ganesh festival.

"Shooting in Chennai. Last few days of KATHTHI left. Missing home!!! The celebrations are on full swing," he tweeted Sunday.

The Johnny Gaddaar star will be seen as an antagonist in the film that also stars Vijay and Samantha Ruth Prabhu. — IANS

The wait is on…
Hilar Duff’s comeback album gets delayed

Actress-singer Hilary Duff, whose last offering was 2007's Dignity, says the release of her 2014 comeback album has been delayed.

The 26-year-old took to Twitter to give an update on the project.

"Guys hate to break this news, but the album won't be out in October. You will have to wait a few more months. Love all the excitement tho (though)," she tweeted.

Duff gave no explanation for the delay of her new music.

She had already begun a promo campaign for her new single All About You, which recently came out.

The track is the second release from her yet-untitled album. The first offering, Chase The Sun was unveiled in July. — IANS

Dia remembers her kabaddi days

Dia Mirza The ongoing Pro-Kabaddi, a professional kabaddi league, has made actress-producer Dia Mirza nostalgic. "My mom would always know when I walked into the house after school that I had played kabaddi! Mud in the hair, scraped knee a give away," she tweeted Sunday. The Bobby Jasoos producer also praised Pro-Kabaddi for making the sport popular again. "It is awesome what @ProKabaddi has done to make this ancient Indian sport popular again. Kudos @juniorbachchan and @RonnieScrewvala #WIN," she tweeted.

While Abhishek Bachchan owns the Jaipur Pink Panthers, the Jaipur franchise of the Pro-Kabaddi League, Ronnie Screwvala is the owner of U Mumba team.
Play full: Dia Mirza

Crime of passion

Model Kelly Brook says she punched her former boyfriend Danny Cipriani when he gave a stripper his phone number.

Brook, who split from her him in August last year after he allegedly cheated on her, has written about her relationship in her autobiography Up Close, and revealed her reaction to the incident which occurred during a trip to Las Vegas. "My dance finished, so I decided to go to the loo. While I was in the cubicle, on the other side of the door the missing lap dancer who was telling her friend how hot Danny was, and how he'd given her his phone number," Brook wrote.— PTI

Miley still loves Liam

Pop star Miley Cyrus has revealed that she still has strong feelings for her former fiance, actor Liam Hemsworth.

The 21-year-old singer split from the Hunger Games star in September last year following four years of on-off dating.

Speaking on Australia's Sunday Night show, Miley said, "I love Liam, Liam loves me." It was believed Cyrus' hit single Wrecking Ball was inspired by her failed relationship with the 24-year-old hunk and she says the track is about freedom.

"It's about finding yourself. I had to set myself free." — PTI

Britney’s ex-file closed

Britney Spears' ex-boyfriend David Lucado wants to have one last conversation with the singer, but her team, led by father Jamie Spears, is reportedly blocking him from contacting her.

Lucado is reportedly telling friends that he and Britney were not "100 per cent together" a few weeks ago when he was videotaped dancing and making out with a girl. And he wants to explain himself, but he's running into a brick wall in the form of Team Brit.

A source said: "David won't be getting through because he's persona non grata at her show in Las Vegas, at her home in Thousand Oaks, CA ... and his phone number's been blocked."

It is even said that Lucado never heard about the break-up directly from Britney and he wants to have that talk.

The Piece of Me hit-maker recently took to Twitter to share that she'd dumped her beau. — IANS

Raja Natwarlal crawls at box office

Despite favourable reviews, Emraan Hashmi-starrer Raja Natwarlal has failed to excite the moviegoers and it has impacted its box office collection. In two days, the crime-comedy could rake in just about Rs 11 crore.

Reportedly made on a budget of Rs 35 crore, the UTV Motion Pictures' project hit about 2,000 screens in the country Friday.

"It has earned Rs 11 crore in the first two days. It is quite low. It should cross Rs 20 crore in a week," said Rajesh Thadani of Multimedia Combines.

Directed by Kunal Deshmukh, Emraan's chemistry with his co-star and Pakistani actress Humaima Malick in the film has been criticised too.

"The drama in #RajaNatwarlal is entertaining, but the romance and music are weak. Film doesn't appeal," trade analyst Komal Nahta tweeted.

Another reviewer wrote: "In Raja Natwarlal, a con caper with a lot going for it at least on paper, Emraan has little to do that could catapult him to the next level of his career."

Emraan was joined by seasoned actor Paresh Rawal and talented Kay Kay Menon in the cast, but they couldn't do enough to elevate the film.

Identity Card-Ek Lifeline by Rahat Kazmi and Trip to Bhangarh directed by Jitendra Pawar also released on Friday, but the two films collected "negligible figures" at the ticket window, says Thadani. — IANS

chatter box
A young tune

Young singer Uvie received much appreciation for the song Fevicol in Dabangg 2. He has recently released his album Magic Moments Geele Geele. He talks about it, his experiences and more.

Uvie
GOOD NOTE: Uvie

How was your journey from Himachal Pradesh to Mumbai?

It was very challenging, as I knew no one in Mumbai at that time. I had started with Rs 10,000 in my pocket, out of which Rs 8,000 was stolen the moment I landed in Mumbai. There was no help and I even could not rent out a place. I spent one complete night below a water tank.

How did your journey in the world of music begin?

I loved music ever since I was a child. In school, I was a favourite with my music teacher. After my schooling from Dharamshala, I learnt music from KL Sehgal in Shimla. Later, I moved to Chandigarh on a scholarship in folk singing. That inspired me a lot. I also cleared the All-India Radio Grading test, but my father wanted me to become an engineer. I took admission in an engineering course, but left it within a year to pursue BA in music and later completed a Masters degree in classical music.

Now that you have come far, do you look back?

Yes; it is very important to remember your days of struggle and all the people who helped you out during that time. This will help you become a better person in life.

How did you reach Mumbai?

I reached Mumbai after my Masters degree. I first worked with Sajid-Wajid. The latter made me in assistant and I learnt a lot from him. Later, I did various albums and sung in the film Shararat; finally got a big break with the song Fevicol in the movie Dabangg 2.

Who do your credit your success to?

I attribute it to my three gurus — KL Sehgal, Harvinder Singh sir from college and also Professor Yashpal, who is from the Agra Gharana. — Dharam Pal

Adventurous streak...

Divyanka Tripathi is riding high on the success of her show Yeh Hai Mohabaatein. However, there is another side to her that most people do not know. We catch up with her.

How much do you relate to your character Ishita in Yeh Hai Mohabaatein?

Ishita Iyer is very 'real' girl. She is mature, down-to-earth and well-educated girl. I am happy to play this character. The only difference between us is that Ishita fights a lot and I don't.

What do you like about your boyfriend Ssharad Malhotraa the most?

He is my strength. He has always been there with me in both my good and bad times. He is person who motivates me a lot. The best thing about Ssharad is that he is family person. He is a positive thinker, but a moody person.

You have done a mountaineering course. Why did you decide to do it?

I am a very adventurous person. It's in my blood. I love horse-riding, mountaineering and trekking. So, one day I decided to go to Uttar Kashi to pursue a mountaineering course for sixteen days. It was great fun.

You are a gold medalist in rifle shooting. How did that happen?

I was in NCC and selected on Republic Day to represent MP. I made a record in rifle shooting. I wanted to be like Abhinav Bindra, but I am an actor today.

It is so different from the girl-next-door image that you have?

Yes. I had to work very hard for it. I was a tomboy so this image was really difficult to cultivate. — HRM

Suyyash turns singer

Suyyash Rai
MUSICAL JOURNEY: Suyyash Rai

Actor Suyyash Rai, who debuted in Splitisvilla, went on to do Pyar Ki Ek Kahani and was last seen in Kaisa Yeh Ishq Hai, is all set to make his debut as a singer with a single titled Khushnuma.

He says, "I realised my flair for singing five years back. I used to just sing with friends at private gatherings. However, I had some friends like Meet brothers, who are from the music industry, when I came to Mumbai from Chandigarh. I started singing because of singers like Atif Aslam, Sonu Nigam and Arjit Singh. I have sung a single, which has two versions. It's a soulful romantic number. We have also shot a music video in Khandala and Kisher Merchant is a part of the video too. The music video has been produced by Posh Entertainment Pvt Ltd, which is owned by Ashwani Sharma.". When asked if he was a trained singer, he said, "No; I have a natural flair. But I intend to start my singing lessons soon. I also want to try my luck in playback singing for films. I can play a bit of piano and guitar as well."

Flavours of Mumbai

Shivin Narang, who plays Ranvijay in Veera, got a good taste of the spirit of Mumbai as he shot for the television show in actual Mumbai locations recently. In the show, his character comes to Mumbai from Punjab. He shot at The Gateway of India, also in the local train and also outside CST station. He says, "The experience of shooting in local train was very different. I got to travel from Andheri to Churchgate. It was fun and we enjoyed a lot. Shooting at Gateway of India was a great experience."

The perfect man

The Indian woman has always been the epitome of tradition and values in our society, but can the men be left far behind? Every mother has expectations from her son…every wife wants attention from her husband… every sister is possessive about her brother! But will the perfect man be able to live up to these expectations? Breaking the stereotype, Sony Entertainment Television is all set to launch a new show, Hum Hain Na, which showcases the story of a man's struggle to strike the perfect balance. Premiering on September 1, 2014, Monday — Thursday at 9:30 pm, the new show dabbles with the subject that gets many women thinking — kya ek perfect beta, ek perfect pati bhi ban sakta hai? Produced by DJ's Creative Unit, Hum Hain Na is set in the beautiful town of Benaras and follows the life of a young and charming boy, Shivprasad Mishra aka Bunty (Kanwar Dhillon). The role of the protagonist will be essayed by the young and good-looking Kanwar Dhillon.

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: "The Priestess" manifests material and emotional abundance with inner strength, maturity and communication skills. This is a good time to compete for a position of power. Tarot message: Use your instinct to get into the top circle of power. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 62.

TAURUS: The card "Magician" reveals your imagination can run wild now and you want to act out a strange desire. You won't impress anyone by being overly generous. Tarot message: Learn from past experience. Lucky colour: Green. Magic number: 42.

GEMINI: Your card "The Princess of Cups" manages to maintain clarity and direction in complicated work situations. Make a list of tasks, complete work or study assignments that are due. Tarot message: Be articulate. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 46.

CANCER: The 'Ace of Wands' strengthens your willpower. You can have quite a romantic adventure if you take time out to know your partner all over again. Take care of any dealings with strangers. Tarot message: Dare to accomplish long-term tasks. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 26.

LEO: "The Knight of Pentacles" brings healing and attention to practical matters. You need some help today. Changes in your home are apparent. Do not enter into any speculation. Tarot message: Take thing one at a time. Lucky colour: Green. Magic number: 47.

VIRGO: 'The Knight of Swords' inspires you to be active and clever. The biggest plans require attention to small details to turn them into reality. In fact, the higher you aim the more precision needed. Tarot message: Listen carefully to words of wisdom. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 61.

LIBRA: Your card 'Five of Pentacles' suggests mixing business with pleasure works well for you. Be careful about getting into disagreements with seniors. Tarot message: You will receive a useful tip at the stock exchange. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 30.

SCORPIO: "The Moon" reveals that you gain balance, perspective and clarity in relationships.A frequent change of mood is likely. Further studies will help fine-tune your capabilities to perfection. Tarot message: Allow a situation to settle before starting afresh. Lucky colour: Burgundy. Magic number: 32.

SAGITTARIUS: Do not put undue pressure on yourself to take on unwelcome tasks. Be willing to lie back and take a break. Indulge yourself in personal pleasures. Tarot message: Balance and perspective will lead you out of problematic situations Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 39.

CAPRICORN: 'Three Wands' representing the Brahma-Vishnu-Mahesh 'Trinity' augurs success in whatever you do today. You can be in a restless and irritable mood. Tarot message: Do not fall for rash promises. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 35.

AQUARIUS: A real buzz in the air upon waking up evokes fresh possibilities. Yet, even the longest journeys start with the first steps. Make initial moves to get the ball rolling in the right direction. Tarot message: Try an off-beat style of handling things. Lucky colour: Rust. Magic number: 54.

PISCES: Your health and well-being are a priority. Set aside part of the weekly budget for whatever you need to ensure that you stay in top shape. A new approach to an old problem can work. Tarot message: Try and function in a different manner. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 43.

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is September 2...

Number 2 is the mediator and peace-lover. It indicates the desire for harmony. It is a gentle, considerate and sensitive vibration. Ruled by the Moon, you will be diplomatic, warm, peaceful and sensitive. Others are drawn to you because of your positive attitude and willingness to take steps to further your personal goals. You can feel discouraged by the trials and tribulations, which concern your professional life. A logical approach coupled with a strong determination will help you reap success in your assignments during the first half of the year. Overseas trips are likely during the first half of the year.

Positive colours: White, Pink.

Select days: Sunday, Monday.

Favourable numbers: 1, 4, 2, 7.

Gems recommended: Pearl, Opal.

Charity on birthday: Donate saffron-coloured edible items.

You share your birthday with Udita Goswami (September 2, 1984, Dehradun), who was featured with Upen Patel in Ahmed Khan's music video of the remix of Kya Khoob Lagti Ho. Udita has a combination of Moon and Venus in her horoscope, which makes her volatile.





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