Nothing filmy about this one!
Campus politics is a favourite theme with filmmakers. Do the student leaders of Panjab University see a reflection of themselves in the characters shown in movies? 
Jasmine Singh

The election fever hots up at Panjab University
The election fever hots up at Panjab University

Zoya is amazed by the different world that Jawarharlal Nehru University offered. As time goes by, she falls for a student leader, Jasjeet. And later, we see Zoya spearheading the activities of AICP (All-India Citizen Party)… Well, this a scene from the popular Bollywood film Raanjhanaa.

Other than of course, the wooing bit, it also showed a fair deal of student politics in the famous university. Student leader, their charm, functioning of a party, holding fort, those off-hand fights and that small spark of romance! Would any of the students, or student leaders find the on-going election scene in Panjab University anywhere close to this? Does the election scene at the university get really serious like they would have either seen in films like Gulaal or Yuva for that matter? We leave this question with those involved in the hullabaloo of elections to find how close the reel and real life elections. Manu Madaan is the national coordinator for NSUI colleges in Chandigarh. He can clearly demarcate the differences between student politics shown in films, and the one that they are in now. "Films show an exaggerated version of politics which is laced with extreme violence. They show how students are threatened and how they are forced to follow a particular party. At NSUI, everything is done according to the law, something Hindi films have never shown."

Sikandar, the political leader of the Punjabi film Sikandar, is forced to make tough decisions. He has to choose between his lady love and his dedication for his party. Anyone at PU has seen that? Manu laughs out aloud. "This is one point where the reel and real have actually merged! I had to face the same tough decision, after all dedication to my party is the first thing."

A blooming love interest is only a part of student politics in films. Piyush Mishra and Abhimanyu-starrer Gulaal shows the dirty side of student elections. Betrayal and force are the overriding currents. Navdeep Dhillon from the Department of Law finds a world of difference as far as the portrayal of student politics in films is concerned.

"In a film, hero is the leader and everything revolves around him, whereas in real like politics it is the party that is important. It is the ideology that is given preference. Secondly, we do see friction between various parties but it doesn't touch the extreme level like it does in films," he says.

Be it the dirty side of student politics of Dil Dosti Etc or the interference of political parties in Punjabi film Dharti or Ajay Devgn and Vivek Oberoi-starrer Yuva, students of Panjab University have not seen the politics they see in films, barring a few scenes.

Harpreet Sidhu, a law student at ULIS, is pretty fascinated with the scenes of student politics depicted in Raanjhanaa. "I have seen student leaders who are fierce and dedicated like Abhay Deol (Jasjeet in the film). I think parties have leaders who have a personality, which is a true depiction of what the film has shown," she adds. Gurjot Sandhu, who is the state president for NSUI, would rather see a film as a film. In this case, he wouldn't want to draw any inspiration or comparison. "This is because what they depict is so different," he mentions.

Ditto for Padmini Singh from the Department of Geography, who would rather take an objective view on this subject. "A film is an entertainer, it has to have the elements of entertainment and they could go overboard with it, but the real life take is always different. Elections in PU is a real thing, the energy, the activities, everything is for real. As for films, the winner is always decided and he is hardly opposed by any other political party."

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Bro in B-town
After his break as Alia Bhatt’s brother in Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhaniya, Chandigarh guy Aditya Sharma is all pepped-up for a long stint in Bollywood
Mona

"I was a star earlier and now I am an actor," announces Aditya Sharma, on his visit to The Tribune. This Chandigarh boy you have lately seen on screen as Alia Bhatt's brother in Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhaniya became an actor on an impulse but once in the field he is giving his best.

After his graduation in Delhi, not wanting to come back, he picked up a certificate course in Barry John Acting Studio, and liked it. This is where Aditya found his love for the stage.

With a supportive family, his next stop was Mumbai. Whistling Woods International Institute gave him the acumen and the confidence. "Coming from Subhash Ghai's school where none else but veteran Naseeruddin Shah mentored us, and considering that I am on the positive side of looks, I thought the world was at my feet," Aditya opens up. "Just Naseer sab's presence was motivating enough. We extensively worked on imagination exercises and monologues."

Apparently, life had its lessons to impart too. Once on an audition, he saw Luck by Chance unfolding right in front of him. He did make it to be an assistant director on the sets of film Partner in time.

And, he kept appearing for auditions. Films eluded him; but he was not up for small screen. With parents funding, Aditya kept his patience and waited, and waited when a family emergency bought him back to his home town. With a long break to fire up his resolve, he was off to Mumbai to try his luck yet again. "This time I was certain, I would take up whatever offered." And, next he was playing a role in Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhaniya.

And boy, he was bowled over by the star kids on the sets. "Even for the smallest of roles, Varun would say, 'rehearsal kar lete hain', not that we needed but just to make me comfortable. Alia is super cool too."

Having to struggle this long, does he feel star kids get it easy? "I don't think so. May be they get the first film but afterwards it's a struggle like any other. The way I see Ranbir Kapoor and Varun Dhawan work on their art, I am just left inspired."

Like any other young actor today, Anurag Kashyap, Imtiaz Ali, Karan Johar, Rajkumar Hirani figure on his list of favourite directors. Co-star? It's Katrina Kaif, "She is so beautiful, she doesn't have to do anything. Her presence is magic."

He is back this time for a Punjabi film project. After many rounds of discussions, he is yet to sign on the dotted line. "I am an actor now. No role is big or small; I will take whatever is offered to me."

Like any other Punjabi, he is happy with Punjabi films doing well. "But unless we offer fresh content, we can't make an industry out of it." The years of struggle have left him humbled yet his dreams are intact. "I know I have it in me, and by God's grace I will attain my goal in times to come."

mona@tribunemail.com

Short listed
Anindita Nayar, who made her debut with Amit Sahani Ki List, is all set to shake a leg with Amitabh Bachchan in Hasmukh Pighal Gaya
Amarjot Kaur

Bollywood may seem to be a far-fetched dream for the ones who don't have a sugar daddy in the industry, but those, who feed their dreams with the flames of passion, find a way anyhow.

While Anindita Nayar rose to fame on the front burner of ad commercials, where she was pitched along with Abhishek Bachchan, Karisma Kapoor and Ranbir Kapoor, she made a debut at the box office with the film, Amit Sahani Ki List that was released sometime back. Today, she has as many as two films in her kitty and in one of which she will be seen sharing the screen space with Amitabh Bachchan. We talk to her about her journey and experiences in the film industry so far.

Act apart

"I wanted to become a film actress ever since I watched Sridevi's Lamhe, when I was a little girl and I remember decking up in those vibrant Rajasthani ghagras and dancing to the tune of Morni," says Anindita. No sooner than Anindita decided to become an actress, she was acquainted with the world of glamour that came her way from her mother's end. "My mother was Sanjay Dutt's junior in school and I met him at one of the parties, and I told him about my desire to become an actress," says Anindita, who was in her early teens at that time. "However, Sanjay Dutt reprimanded me and asked my mother to keep me away from the industry. We never met each other after that incident and after eleven years, I am acting in a film that is being made under his production banner," she laughs. Though Manyata and Sanjay Dutt were quite shocked and amused to know who was the lead actress they signed for their film Hasmukh Pighal Gaya. Anindita's decision of becoming an actress ruffled a few feathers back home too, but they remained supportive.

Well begun

"My parents, especially my mother has been a great support and she moved in with me when I decided to shift to Mumbai," shares this 26-year-old. Anindita who graduated from Lady Shri Ram College, Delhi. Her first brush with popularity came through a series of commercials, which, as she says, proved to be lucky for her. "Commercials are a good way of getting noticed, only that one has to be choosy about picking up the right brands," she says.

Star studded

Anindita has two films lined up and she is excited about both these films. "I love commercial Bollywood masala films and I would love to be a part of a film like that, but at the moment I am trying my hand at something different with 3 AM and Hasmukh Pighal Gaya," she shares.

amarjot@tribunemail.com

gyan zone
Chai ho jaye?
The good-old cup of tea is as refreshing as it is energizing. Here are a few varieties that can be savoured by the tea-lovers
Somya Abrol

"Arrey, chai toh pi ke jaiye!"

"Aur? Ho gaya chai-naashta?"

"Thodi-thodi chai toh chalegi…"

It's difficult to digest that the one, all-pervasive, beverage of India was truly a medicinal drink a few centuries ago. Medicinal value or cultural symbol or financial vantage or necessity — no gup-shup is complete without India's beloved chai! So, here's a lowdown on the country's favourite beverage:

Cutting Chai: This is the essential, sweetened, spiced (optional) chai, slurped by almost every Indian at the roadside 'chai wallah'. While some say that the tea is strong enough to be 'cut' to half to get you through the day, there are others who treat it like a shot of adrenaline to give a kick-start to the day. The basic ingredients comprise water, black tea leaves, milk and loads of sugar. Ideal temperature of water (before adding tea leaves): 195-205 degree.

Green Tea: Nutritionists may go on debating about green tea aiding weight loss, but the truth of the matter is that it is loaded with antioxidants (catechins) that help prevent skin damage and wrinkles. This type of tea is made from unfermented leaves of Camellia Sinensis (the tea plant) by the process of quick drying. In layman's terms, green tea is not as processed as the regular (black) tea. The reason dieticians advocate its regular consumption is because three or more cups of green tea a day help improve the body's metabolism. Not a bad bet to compromise on taste, is it? Ideal temperature of water: 160-180 degree.

Oolong Tea: This traditional Chinese tea is prepared through a unique process called whithering. The taste of Oolong tea varies widely among sub-varieties. The basic taste, however, is fruity with honey aroma or woody and thick with a roasted aroma. The literal translation of 'Oolong' in English is 'black dragon tea'. The tea also has Vietnamese, Nepali, African, Thai and Darjeeling versions. Ideal temperature of water: 190-200 degree.

White Tea: This lightly-oxidized tea is one of the most expensive variants of teas produced in India. The tea comes from buds of Camellia Sinensis (the tea plant); these buds are allowed to whither in natural sunlight before they are lightly processed to prevent oxidation. White tea is sold as high as Rs 1,000 (for 100 gms)! Ideal temperature of water: 155-165 degree.

Herbal Tea: Herbal tea is any beverage made from the infusion of herbs and spices in hot water, minus the caffeine. Most herbal teas - basil-ginger tea, cinnamon tea, masala chai, lemon-ginger tea - are consumed for their medicinal benefits. Ideal temperature of water: 200-212 degree.

Yellow Tea: This one is a special Chinese tea similarly to green tea, but with a slower drying phase. Generally yellow-green in colour, the tea smells different than both green and white tea. Ideal temperature of water: 190-200 degree.

somya@tribunemail.com

Hot cup

  • Chocolate Tea
  • Mango Tea
  • Rose Tea
  • Lemon Tea
  • Jasmine Tea
  • Cinnamon Tea
  • Clove Tea

Health first

  • Rich in antioxidants
  • Lesser caffeine than coffee
  • Strengthens bones
  • Builds immunity
  • Calorie-free
  • Speeds up metabolism

Power of performance
Entrepreneurs Ashok Rao and PK Agarwal have achieved giddying heights of success. They opine that promoting entrepreneurship will help the nation in the longer run
Manpriya Singh

Ashok Rao
Ashok Rao

PK Agarwal
PK Agarwal

It all lies between the extreme spectrums of fear and failure. Entrepreneurship is only as far away as celebrating failure. Unfortunately, we'd rather celebrate fear. "This fear of failure curbs entrepreneurial instinct. At a societal level, at a governmental level, we are only programmed to encourage doctors, engineers and the like but not entrepreneurs." As a US-based serial entrepreneur and CEO, Whodini Inc, Ashok Rao, is more than qualified to talk all things business.

"I love taking risks…If somebody had asked me six months ago if I'd ever open a restaurant, I'd say no chance. But it's been three months since I opened a Thai restaurant in Houston," also the chairman of the Tie Global Board of Trustees, he adds, while in Chandigarh to honour the winners of Tie-PTU Business Plan Competition.

Perhaps one of the traits that helped become one of the first Indian-Americans to take a company public on NASDAQ, produce five films, start a restaurant and what not, all after passing out of IIT Delhi!

Nevertheless, he lets 'luck' take a fair share of the credit. One of the factors most attributed and least admitted to success. "Luck and what they call when motivation meets perspiration is what I attribute my success to! I just happened to be lucky enough to be at the right place at the right time."

Places that took him from software to films like Faraway Bride, Before the Rains, The Lost Tribe, The Whisperers and Pocketful of Soap. "I made my films professionally, but I'm not a professional filmmaker. I am done with producing films. It started with the need of satisfying creating urges." He adds, "I was a hands-on producer. I edited, mixed sounds; did all these things myself. While I was at it, I made a romantic comedy, a sci-fi film, a psycho-thriller and I am done." What he's rather not done with is taking calculated risks and making use of opportunities!

Flying high

We let the fact that he was appointed by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger overshadow the fact that he was appointed as the Chief Technology Officer for the State of California! Internet pioneer and CEO, Tie, PK Agarwal, says, "He is phenomenal and motivating. He is such a savvy businessman." It is a journey that started with a Bachelor's in Engineering from IIT, New Delhi. A Master's degree from California State University followed. A university that he zeroed-in for no reason better than, "The brochure of the university showed a splendid swimming pool and all the beautiful women sitting by the pool," before recalling, "I also happened to meet my wife at the same pool showed in the brochure."

On a serious note, "I credit a lot of my success to the Indian education. How much ever we may like to criticise the memorizing, it all means knowledge. I was an average student in India but suddenly in the States, I was brilliant." He adds, "For the past ten years or so, IITs have become a brand to reckon with. A lot of credit goes to the fact that Bill Gates in his book has given credit for the success of Microsoft to IITs. India's image has changed from being the country of the poor to the country of spiritual to the country of the savvy." That's great news!

manpriya@tribunemail.com

CELEB POINT
Seeking Bappa’s blessings!
Divya Dutta

He came...he saw...he conquered…all the hearts! This year too, as always, my Bappa, who I fondly call Gannu Bappa! Never felt it was religious. I just enjoyed and loved my connect with him. Like an elder brother who comes home on an annual visit to see if everything is fine.

The most amazing thing I have noticed is that however busy life in Mumbai is, everyone comes to seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha. Every year, some faces are regular at my home — my friends, relatives, some colleagues, it is like a warm get-together each year and loads of fun. It's so beautiful when despite the traffic and other problems, people find time to visit your place and cherish each moment. It's so amazing!

This year was no different. I couldn't help but look at Bappa's serene face and thank him for all the blessings he has showered on me. Different faces, different bonds, different conversations …what remains the same is Bappa's divine smile. I had told my core group of friends to be there with us during the Visarjan and they all were there in full strength... Ganpati Bappa Morya! We all chanted together after the Aarti and took the idol for immersion. It's sad to bid goodbye for the year…there is so much I wanted to ask from him. All I could do was fold my hands in gratitude for all he's given me! For coming home, for making it so festive; for giving me friends I can totally count on. For people who admire me and for a loving family that's my lifeline. And most importantly, for Bappa himself, who is always loving and looking over me. Pudhchya warshi lavkar ya... come back soon next year Bappa!

(Dutta is a Bollywood actor)

Coming soon
When art is heritage
An exhibition of famous painter Nicholas Roerich's works will be held in Chandigarh from September 9
Mona

It sure is going to be a major event for art-lovers. Roerich Pact: History & Modernity, a travelling exhibition, will bring about 40 reproductions and some photo material. An exhibition of famed painter Nicholas Roerich's works would be in Chandigarh on September 9. Reproductions of his works, including the Himalayan natural beauty, where he spent his last days, would be on display," says Harjinder Kaur, chairperson, Punjab Art Council.

The Russian painter, writer, archaeologist, theosophist and philosopher Nicholas Roerich was a man of varied interests and vast influence. He travelled across the world before making Naggar, near Manali, Himachal Pradesh, his home and also his resting place post his demise. And he painted the snow-capped mountains from the idyllic setting. His stay in 1930s and 1940s in Naggar bagged him famous visitors, including Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru and Indira Gandhi; their photo materials are also expected to be part of this travelling exhibition. "Cine-lovers may see a portrait that Roerich made that of yesteryear actress Devika Rani (his daughter-in-law, married to his son Svetoslav Nikolaevich Roerich)," shares Sadhna Sangar, secretary, Punjab Lalit Kala Akademi.

The travelling exhibition would make a halt in Chandigarh with a Russian curator and Russian embassy officials. Apart from his paintings, Roerich, who was nominated for Nobel Peace Prize thrice, was widely known for his interest in theology. The Roerich Pact stressed on defence of cultural objects over military defence.

You can get to know the works, life and influence of one of this greatest Russian painter with Roerich Pact: History & Modernity. It's organised by Punjab Lalit Kala Akademi in collaboration with The International Centre of Roerichs, Moscow, The International Research Heritage Preservation Committee and The International Roerich Memorial Trust Naggar, Kullu.

Check out

When: From September 9 to September 23

Where: Sobha Singh Art Gallery-16

it’s rocking
Time to party!

A still from Abhi Toh Party Shuru Hui Hai
A still from Abhi Toh Party Shuru Hui Hai

For all those who have been fancying clubbing Bollywood style, this one is a brand new party anthem and guess who is adding the glamour quotient? Hail! It's the Bollywood fashionista Sonam Kapoor and Pakistani heartthrob Fawad Khan in the song Abhi Toh Party Shuru Hui Hai. The song is sung, composed and written by Badshah — he also has a special appearance in the video — while Aastha has given the female vocals. If you are not still dancing to this anthem, well, its time you hear it from those who are!

Peppy track

It's a very peppy number and I really like the fact that it does not talk about people getting drunk on Char Botal Vodka, while it still is as much a party song. The music is groovy and upbeat, the lyrics are quite all right too!

Jagriti Lamba, Student, DAV College

Happy feet

I like the vibe of the song! I hope the track keeps me dancing for a couple of weeks at least. Also, I really like the video of the song. It's quite catchy and I think it can hold the dance floor with the kind of energy that it offers. Good going for Bollywood!

Anil Sharma, student, PU

Upbeat number

I really like the song. It's very interesting and upbeat. I think Sonam is looking very khoobsurat in the film. The rap is really cool too.

Pari Shekhawat, private bank employee

(As told to Amarjot Kaur)

star track
Success formula
Hrithik drives a F1 car in Bang Bang!

A still from Siddharth Anand sure knows how to get the adrenaline pumping. In his latest action romance Bang Bang (starring Hrithik Roshan and Katrina Kaif), the director has left no stone unturned to ensure an 'edge of the seat' experience. The trailer, which showcases some action sequences, has got everyone screaming for more.

In one such sequence, Hrithik Roshan actually drove a Formula 1 car on the streets of Abu Dhabi. He said, "It's the best adrenaline rush I've ever experienced. And to experience it amidst the visually stunning and smooth roadways of Abu Dhabi was just incredible! What a rush!!"

Siddharth adds, "There are many firsts in the action sequences in Bang Bang! Every action scene is pushed and torn the envelope. Indian screen hasn't seen action like Bang Bang. And, the teaser has resonated this. Hrithik driving this car sequence being one of them."

The high speed action romance is all set to release on October 2.

Urdu all the way

Shahid Kapoor learnt Urdu for Haider and he is continuing his lessons for the language. He continues to practice his Urdu with people around him. He even talks to his family members in Urdu.

Japanese connect

Sridevi is getting many fans in Japan. Her movie English Vinglish was released in Japan in June end and the number of screens was increased to more than 50 screens in 20 Japanese cities. The movie also had a premiere there with Japanese politicians in attendance.

Face of the year

Leading lady: Akanksha Puri Madhur Bhandarkar is trying to maintain secrecy about the cast of Calendar Girls and has not allowed phone cameras on the sets. Slowly, snippets are flowing out and we have come to know that the leading lady of the film is South Indian actress Akanksha Puri. The film also has some other new faces, including some TV actresses.

Akanksha Puri, who has shot for films down South. Puri has done films opposite big stars like Mammootty and her projects include Alex Pandian (2013), Praise the Lord (2014) and Samrajyam II: Son of Alexander (2014), though most of them didn't do well at the box office.

A source close to the project says, "Yes, Akanksha Puri is a part of the film. She has done some films in the South film industry and is making her Bollywood debut with Calendar Girls."

Interestingly, there was buzz that Madhur has auditioned a lot of girls and has chosen five fresh faces but with this actress on board, it's seems that not all leading ladies from Calendar Girls are his discoveries.

The film is said to revolve around the lives of models who gain popularity after featuring in bikinis in famous calendars. The film will apparently also feature a character based on industrialist and liquor baron Vijay Mallya. It is completely in sync with the type of realistic, no-holds-barred, behind-the-scenes cinema that Madhur Bhandarkar is known for. We wonder how much class this film will have and how much buzz it will generate. A picture of women in bikinis is enough.

Poonam Pandey does it again

Starlet Poonam Pandey, who is very active on social media, got a shock after she discovered that her Facebook page was suddenly banned. While it is not known why Facebook has removed her account, rumours suggest that it was because of the adult content that she had on her page. Be it her semi-nude pictures or revealing videos, Poonam had lot of sleazy content on her page. No wonder she had 2.1 million followers!

Bipasha Basu wants to work with Honey Singh

Magic touch: Bipasha Basu Actress Bipasha Basu is so impressed with rapper-singer Yo Yo Honey Singh that she wants to work with him. "I will be foolish if I don't want to do it," Bipasha said on the sets of Honey Singh's singing reality show India's Raw Star.

When asked if she would like to work with the singing sensation, she said: "Definitely! I would love to work with him because his songs are very popular. People love his songs and you can really dance to them. He has got a great groove to all his songs."

Further praising him, the 35-year-old said, "Honey Singh has the magic touch. He is the Midas man of music." Within a short span of time, Honey Singh has become quite popular in B-town. Right from superstar Shah Rukh Khan to megastar Amitabh Bachchan, he has composed and sung for most of the top-notch actors. His biggest hit was Lungi Dance for Chennai Express.

Recently, Sonakshi Sinha featured in the music video Desi Kalakaar from his upcoming album. As of now, Bipasha is looking forward to the release of her film Creature 3D on Sep 12. — IANS

Welcome Sangeeta

It seems Sangeeta Bijlani will finally make her comeback, but on television. She is going to be a part of the remake of American series Revenge. She plays a villainous role modelled on the lines of Victoria Grayson. It is a very glamourous role with grey shades.

Kalki’s Love Affair

Kalki Koechlin has been cast as Sylvia Nanawati in Soni Razdan's Love Affair. Kalki looks like a foreigner, so she got the part and her good friend Gulshan Devaiyah is also part of the movie.

Shake it like Varun

Remo D'souza was impressed by Varun Dhawan's dance moves in Disco Deewane in Student of the Year and so he cast him in ABCD 2. He wanted to make actors dance in the sequel where as the first one had made actors out of dancers.

Being natural

Shruti Haasan Actress Shruti Haasan not only looks good but she also has an awesome figure. Here she talks about exercising, skin care and more...

Glow regime

I prefer natural products and avoid anything with chemicals in it. Even though I am particular about brands, I always ensure I pick up only good quality ones. I wash my face regularly and I make sure to apply night cream and as well as a good moisturizer in the daybreak. Since I spend a lot of time in open-air shoots, I carry a sun-screen with me all the time and re-apply it every two hours. Once I got so tanned that my skin became three shades darker. To treat this I used natural products like lemon, honey and tomato. Also, water is the best medicine for a good skin and therefore I drink a lot of water throughout the day

Diet chart

I never diet or deprive myself of anything. I eat well. I have one bad habit though of skipping breakfast. Now, I am trying to change this habit of mine. In the morning, I have an egg, muesli and fruits or idli. I have tender coconut water everyday, which is nutritious and natural. In the summer, I like to have fresh juice of watermelon, which is refreshing and keeps the body hydrated. I have recently shifted to Mumbai and I have now started relishing vada pav once in a while though!

Dance for health

I am not the kind of person who enjoys working out in the gym. I prefer dancing. It's interesting and great fun. I usually dance for 45 minutes at least four times a week; I do walk on treadmill regularly and prefer to do some cardio exercises at home. Sometime back I had put on some weight but with regular exercise and jogging I have shed it. I have become more health conscious now.

Food for the mind

I like watching TV it helps me to unwind. I am passionate about music so I enjoy listening to music. It's the best way to de-stress. Besides this, I love experimenting with food so I often cook. I am fond of reading graphic novels. Also, I like to play video games. It's a great recreational activity.

Spiritual aura

I believe in the supreme power, but I don't go to the temples to chant prayers. I feel God is within us and around us. We need to look within ourselves to get answers. I don't follow any rituals as such. I have been fortunate and God has been kind enough to me, I am grateful to God. For me, spirituality is discovering oneself. Once in a while I do recite the Hanuman chalisa. The book that has really inspired me is Richard Bach's Illusions. My motto is never ever give up in life!

chatter box
Soon, Humsafar on Zindagi

border lines: A still from HumsafarHumsafar, Zindagi's upcoming show premiering on the channel soon, will mark the comeback of popular Pakistani actor Fawad Khan on the channel after his hit show Zindagi Gulzar Hai. Humsafar will also mark the debut of Pakistani sensation Mahira Khan, who is a popular VJ, actor and model.

Also debuting on Indian television with this show is Naveen Waqar, famous VJ, actor, model and RJ. Straight from across the border, Humsafar is a beautiful story about the trials in a married couple's life and how the same are overcome. The show was a huge hit in Pakistan and won several awards. Humsafar will soon hit the television screens.

Change of stage

Shibani Kashyap Popular singer Shibani Kashyap, who is all set to make her foray into acting with Star Plus' fiction show Ek Veer Ki Ardaas...Veera, has earlier sung and composed songs. She shares notes on her new outing.

What character do you play in Veera?

I will be seen playing Megha, Ranvi's mentor, who has now decided to move to Mumbai to make a mark in music. Ranvi will soon be participating in a reality show and Megha will mentor as well as guide him during this journey.

What is Megha's background?

Megha is a famous singer who was boycotted from the industry due to her starry tantrums. She meets Ranvi, realises his potential and agrees to mentor him. This she takes up as a personal challenge and wants to make him really popular. At the same time, she is also rooting for a comeback in the industry.

What made you accept this show as your television debut?

I am playing a music mentor in the show. The character is very reflective of me and how I am in real life. I am really excited to be making my fiction debut with Veera, as the character comes easily to me. I am also exploring it through the show.

How difficult was it to face the television camera?

I have done many music videos, so a television shoot was a bit on the same graph. I had a blast shooting for the show. The co-stars and the unit were great. I have been on television earlier, as a judge in the music hunt reality show Bathroom Singer on Sahara Filmy.

How many episodes will you be appearing in?

I have just started shooting for my segment. The length and importance of my role all depends on the channel and the creative directors of the show.

End of the road

It seems television show Rangrasiya, which initially started off as a love story, will go off air soon. The daily soap took a seven-year leap and post that the ratings have dropped. Geetanjali Mishra, who is seen in a supporting role on the show, took to Twitter to share the news with fans. "It's really sad day of life... Guys please. Forgive me... sorry RR is going off... Just production guy has confirmed. .. 19th is last telecast," Geetanjali tweeted.

No time for honeymoon!

Actor Bhanu Uday, who was seen in shows like Special Squad and Ek Tha Rusty, recently married girlfriend and co-actor Shalini Khanna. However, he has no time for honeymoon as he is busy promoting his upcoming show Hamari Didi.

Gutur Gu is back

After two successful seasons on SAB TV, buzz is that television show Gutur Gu might return with season 3. Things are at a nascent stage, but rumour is that Jay Thakkar has been replaced by Harsh Mittal.

Delightful tandav act

spiritual move: A still from Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa What happens when two great performers like Shakti Mohan and Tushaar are joined by another excellent dancer like Mukti Mohan? The result will always be a spectacular act and something similar happened this week on Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa. 

The duo of Shakti and Tushaar performed a tandav act with none other than Shakti's sister Mukti. The trio danced like a dream and the judges were all praise. Former Jhalak contestant Mukti was appreciated by the judges as well. The performance not only bagged them dancing shoes this weekend, but also earned a standing ovation as well as perfect scores. 

Astro turf
P. Khurrana

ARIES: Relax with your mate in the evening; it's just the antidote for the trials and tensions of the day. Someone you are attracted to at work feels the same way. It is for you to make the first move. Tarot message: Take limited risks while speculating. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 55.

TAURUS: Today will be exciting. Conquer your fears and take a chance to live reality. You will be worried and concerned about certain family issues and need to take out time to sort things out. Tarot message: Outline your goals ahead of time. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 28.

GEMINI: 'The Queen of Pentacles' blesses you with the finest of qualities today. Things happen quickly and you need to take sharp decisions. Children will be a source of joy and their progress will make you proud. Tarot message: Don't accept situations you dislike. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 34.

CANCER: There is good news on the cards. You will be in a relaxed and happy mood. If you need to take any personal decisions, go with your gut feel. Be wary of online purchases. Tarot message: A bird in hand is worth more than two in the bush. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 36.

LEO: The wisdom of "The Hermit" inspires you to make new beginnings and move in a creative direction. Spending time with family will bring about a sense of peace. Tarot message: Do not deplete your energy or resources on others. Lucky colour: Green. Magic number: 46.

VIRGO: 'The Magician' conjures up some travel and business opportunities. Partnership, business problems, past disappointments - all need your attention today. Stop waiting for the right time to attend to them. Tarot message: Trust your heart and intuition. Lucky colour: Sky blue. Magic number: 54.

LIBRA: Business deals will remain inconclusive. If you need a pay hike, speak to your boss. Work will progress satisfactorily. By the evening you will be in an irritable mood and prone to losing your temper. Tarot message: Avoid friction with business partners. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 62.

SCORPIO: It looks like a very busy day ahead, but any partying and indulgence of previous evenings will be catching up with you. Your chances of success are better today than ever before. Tarot message: Be firm and stand your ground. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 59.

SAGITTARIUS: The Prince of Wands rides in his flaming chariot of gold to instigate dynamic changes at work. Don't trust unreliable friends or relatives. Travelling will yield valuable information. Tarot message: Do not fall for rash promises. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 52.

CAPRICORN: Today mixing with friends can be a tricky business. If you don't want to be alone, choose a companion who is least likely to irritate you. Don't get involved in petty arguments with your mate or partner. Tarot message: Consolidate your gains. Lucky colour: Grey. Magic number: 58.

AQUARIUS: Passionate emotions are likely to accompany your actions and you might be more impulsive than usual. You will have a better chance of getting through odd jobs connected with family affairs if you promote teamwork. Tarot message: Lack of confidence can leave you in losses. Lucky colour: Rust. Magic number: 45.

PISCES: "The Hanged Man" helps you move into a new and better situation. Spirituality beckons and you are inclined to finding out more about it. You struggle to keep your temper in check today. Tarot message: Focus on your dream project. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 56.

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is September 3...

Blessings of a saintly person will give peace of mind. Investment made will enhance your prosperity and financial security. Spend some pleasant time with your children in the evening. Number 3 is a sociable, friendly and outgoing vibration. Kind, positive, and optimistic, you also have a good sense of humour. Ruled by Jupiter, you will be jovial, friendly, positive, adventurous and expressive. There will be some good fortune coming your way through partnerships. All the restless energy you've been feeling can now be channelised into any direction you want. You have the mental stamina and physical vitality needed to accomplish whatever you set as a goal.

Positive colours: Golden, Red.
Select days: Sunday, Monday.
Favourable numbers: 1, 4, 2, 7.
Gems recommended: Yellow Sapphire, Ruby.
Charity on Birthday: Donate vegetables to the needy.

You share your birthday with Vivek Oberoi (September 3, 1976, Hyderabad), son of Bollywood actor Suresh Oberoi whose big break came with the film Company. Vivek has unfavourable Saturn and Jupiter, which is slowing down his career.





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