Entertainment theory
It’s not just a tussle between kala and gora, but also between humour and so- called Punjabi comedy. Latest Punjabi film Goreyan Nu Daffa Karo is all set to teach a thing or two about humour 
Jasmine Singh

Flat five minutes into the conversation, the team of Punjabi film Goreyan Nu Daffa Karo neatly perform the task of separating comedy from humour. Another five minutes and they assure you that the film is going to turn the face of Punjabi cinema. And we didn't see their fingers crossed behind their back!

Amrinder Gill with his innocent smile, Rana Ranbir with his wit, Binnu Dhillon with his liveliness, Karamjit Anmol with intensity, Pankaj Batra (director) with his humility, Amberdeep Singh (writer) with his words and Aman Khatkar (one of the producers) with his facts take to the dais as they roll on with everything you want to know about Goreyan Nu Daffa Karo. The actor with a silken thread voice Amrinder Gill takes the lead…

Breaking the silence
Amrinder Gill

He comes out from his introvert mould as and when he wants to, but in GNDK he has broken the mould to pieces. "Only on the reel," Amrinder Gill whose character Kala is totally different from what he is in real life. "I had to work on what Kala wears, the way he talks, actually everything. I am sure after this film, I will be in a position to decide what kind of character I would like to play next." The singer actor has taken the pick-and-choose road. "I have become selective about the films that I am doing now. GNDK is not just another comedy, it is pure humour."

Music is his first love, nothing can disturb this flow. "It is my first priority, I do films but not at the cost of my album or shows," adds Amrinder whose recent track Judaa 2 was a record breaker on the music charts.

Moving ahead
Rana Ranbir

He likes to stay close to reality, as much as he can. He doesn't contradict the downfall of some comedy films, at the same time, he sees hope in some films like GNDK. All the same, Rana Ranbir, the actor doesn't overrule the 'let's see what the audience says' factor.

Rana is touring Punjab and abroad with his play Khettan Da Putt. "I know what people in Punjab say about comedy, which is not wrong . However, now we need to move one step ahead and give them humour," says the actor who got great reviews for his solo act.

Fun intended
Binnu Dhillon

He always has an answer laced with wit. Binnu Dhillon, who is busy with a lot of live shows, would rather tell the audience not to be too quick to react. "Just because some films in this genre haven't done well, that doesn't mean every film will follow the same path," shares Binnu. He is certain that if the audience is given humour, rather than useless punches, they will definitely lap it up.

Change of season
Aman Khatkar

He is a storehouse of energy on and off the sets. He has so much to say, changes that he wants to bring in, things that he strongly feels about, stuff that miffs him about Punjabi film industry. Aman Khatkar is one of the producers and actors. "It might sound like exaggerated, but I am sure about GNDK being a benchmark of Punjabi cinema." Aman is not comfortable with the industry. "I wish we could be more professional and not take films as some easy-to-serve-dish."

All about humour
Pankaj Batra

This director is quiet; he talks only when he is asked to. But on the set, Pankaj Batra is a different man altogether. He can handle actors and handle his story pretty well! GNDK is one film he thinks he has handled well. "I am sure that this isn't a comedy, it is a film that has humour, a film that will entertain, a film that has actors from Hollywood , a story that justifies characters."

Words are enough
Amberdeep Singh

He selects his plot and words with the precision of a diamond merchant. Ambderdeep Singh who has written the story and dialogues for GNDK took almost a year and half on the script. "I am never too sure what will click with the audience, I am always careful that I am not handing them a page from some book on jokes." 

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Kathak meets Kathakali
Six classical art forms unite together in Kathak Guru Rajendra Gangani’s composition Nrityarupa: A Mosaic of Indian Dances
Manpriya Singh

The group of classical dancers
in sync: The group of classical dancers Photo: Manoj Mahajan

It is an endeavour to capture the new audience. Not by overwhelming them with a great mosaic of cultures but by encapsulating the experience of Indian dance as it has evolved in various parts of the country.

Nrityarupa: A Mosaic of Indian Dance puts together six dance forms representing the diversity of India's culture. Think Bharatnatyam of Tamil Nadu, Kathak, pre-eminently the dance form of Northern India, Odissi from Odisha, Manipuri from the north-eastern State of India, Kathakali of Kerala and Chhau from Odisha, covering a wide swathe of territory in the eastern states. "We will be showcasing six different classical dance forms. It begins with all of them taking to the stage together and then branching out to represent their respective genres. It is like a complete package," shares Gauri Diwakar, a few hours before the performance being held as a part of the 6th Chandigarh Arts and Heritage Festival. "I will be doing Kathak, while there will be one dancer representing each of the forms and two dancers for Manipuri."

A few of the recent trends in performing arts is likely to conjure up images of fusion. "I am not an advocate of fusion pieces. I rather call it confusion."

The piece has been choreographed by Rajendra Gangani and put together by Sangeet Natak Akademi, New Delhi.

"We have travelled with this piece to several places like Cuba, Vietnam, among many others. In South Africa, the audience was shrieking like anything." Apart from lighting and costumes, what makes things stand apart, is the essence of the 40 minute performance. Having started young and, "been a dancer for 30 years," the run up to the final piece, among other things was a learning ground. "It was interesting interacting with various artistes. This way you build up your creativity."

Rhythmic interaction

A Kathak performance can be as much about feminine grace as about masculine movement. They both come together against the backdrop of rich music and depth of classical poetry in Kathak Pravaha that consists of three pieces—Ni-ra-tata-dhang, Padhant and Tarana. "The first part is all about feminine gestures while in the second part there is interaction. As for the third part, that is a celebration of tarana," Vidya Gauri, Kathak dancer, takes the initial questions on the dance piece. "The piece has been choreographed by the renowned Kumidini Lakhia and it shows different aspects of Kathak." Deepak Arora joins her in the performance too.

The 40-minute piece, presenting 10 dancers, is a deep, vibrant and dynamic work of dance. He adds, "It is a flexible dance form leaving scope for personal experimentation and contribution."

The performance is an expression of the journey of an ancient tradition through centuries of human sensibilities. Literally converted it means the "ongoing journey of the tales."

It wasn't easy to come up with a choreographic representation of the totality of the art form of Kathak. "We depict the different aspects of Kathak and we have been working on it since the month of May," shares Vidya Gauri.

manpriya@tribunemail.com

gyan zone
Triumphant spirit
Age has nothing to do with wisdom. Young author Sirjandeep Kaur Ubha proves it well enough through her debut novel The Triumph, which attempts to change people's perspective towards women 
Somya Abrol

strong word: Sirjandeep Kaur Ubha
strong word: Sirjandeep Kaur Ubha Photo: Pradeep Tewari

The infamous gang-rape case of December 2012 impacted young and old minds alike. While some took to the streets to vent out their frustration, others took to the pen. A true feminist at the young age of 19, Sirjandeep Kaur Ubha, is looking at bringing about a change in the society through her young musings, in the form of her debut novel, The Triumph.

Launching her book in Chandigarh on Thursday, Sirjandeep refutes the idea of voicing one's anger on the streets, which, she believes, falls only on deaf ears. "After the Damini gang-rape, I wanted to take to a medium to release my frustration, which ultimately took the shape of a novel. I wasn't one to take part in candlelight marches. You see, it does not matter; you march to a designated venue to show support, you return home and it ends there. What do these people do the next morning to change the way our society portrays women? Have the rapes stopped or even reduced, after these innumerable candlelight marches? The answer is to start feeling responsible for your actions. I got to know of some youngsters harassing women at one of these candlelight marches in Delhi. What's the point then, if people have to revert to their perverted ways?" questions Sirjandeep, who is still pursuing her B.Com Honours from Delhi University.

The plot of The Triumph revolves around the protagonist, Ibadat, who is abandoned by her parents after birth. After being brought up by her grandmother for 17 years, Ibadat decides to pay her parents and step-brother a visit in Mumbai. Braving humiliation and scorn, Ibadat emerges victorious and wins her family over with her love. So, what's the message the young author is trying to put forth through her protagonist? "It's just an attempt, an honest effort, at trying to change people's perspective towards girls and women in this country. I believe that after reading my book, girls would feel empowered enough to stand up and raise their voice against injustice," adds Sirjandeep.

Ask her if she had a certain age-group in mind while penning the book and she says, "I think readers across age groups and cultures can benefit from the book. If a 60-year-old man also reads it with an open mind, he'd feel compelled to think about the state of women in the country and how the society ill-treats them."

somya@tribunemail.com 

Doc Talk
Pamper your skin
Alka Dogra

Your skin needs special care with growing age. Here are a few points that will help you glow forever

Getting a glow on the skin is natural till a certain age, but when we cross the forties some hardwork is required to maintain the glow. Of course being positive and happy helps, but a certain pampering is required. It means that in our daily regimen, we should keep certain points in mind that will help our skin combat the influence of age and the environment. Here are a few points that will help.

Regular use of sunscreen of SPF 30 or above over all exposed parts.

An anti-ageing cream at night depending on your skin type.

Toner-to be used before moisturising. Toner can be alcohol-based or aqueous.

Moisturising or hydrating the skin. This is important otherwise cracking occurs.

Use oil-free moisturisers in summer. Very greasy ones should be left for winter.

Regularly go for power peel or microdermabrasions to a dermatologist. Six peels fortnightly apart once a year should be taken. This removes the dead cells and improves fine lines.

Have nuts in moderation and very sweet fruits should be avoided. Take plenty of water. Prefer fruits with high water content like water melon, musk melon and sun melon.

Milk and milk products should be taken to prevent osteoporosis. Prefer skimmed or toned milk.

Some form of exercises help in keeping the glow on the face. Be it passive walking, yoga, gym or swimming.

Don't be disturbed if there is some infection or allergy on the skin. After all it is the largest organ of the body. As we have a sore throat or pain in the abdomen, similarly skin problems can occur and can be tackled very fast.

(Dogra is a Ludhiana-based dermatologist)

— As told to Poonam Bindra

Sweetness of each note
Famous shehnai exponent Sanjeev Shankar, who represents the Banaras Gharana, believes the instrument needs to be made more versatile to generate interest in the younger generation
Mona

in sync: Sanjeev and (R) Ashwani Humility is a virtue of the great. In Sanjeev Shankar, legacy-bearer of the Banaras Gharana that has carried on the shehnai and flute tradition for the last 400 plus years, and whose work has been nominated for the Grammy Award, it's difficult to trace even a faint hint of having achieved or arrived!

Born to legendary shehnai player Pt Daya Shankar, the three boys Sanjeev, Ashwini and Anand, knew it's their destiny to carry forward the legacy; sheer dedication and able guidance has only led them to where they are today.

In Chandigarh, on the invitation of SPICMACAY (Society for the Promotion of Indian Classical Music And Culture Amongst Youth), on Thursday, the brothers gave their young audience a taste of this beautiful classical instrument and also opened up on their journey.

"Even when we very small, we knew its classical arts that we were going to pursue. To begin with, our father would make us sit with him during his riyaaz but it was never forced." Growing up in Delhi with the sound of classical music keeping them company 24X7, it was only with time that the brothers chose their instruments. Having learnt under their father and grandfather Pt Anant Lal, shehnai was the first choice — while Sanjeev and Ashwini stuck to this, Anand carried on with the tabla.

Having Pt Ravi Shankar for a Guru, Sanjeev always had a soft corner for sitar but it was on his Gurus insistence that he chose shehnai over sitar. Three decades on, with training and riyaaz, Sanjeev feels that there is still a long way to go, "Shehnai is the most difficult classical instrument to master. Even today during riyaaz we realise so many more possibilities."

And Sanjeev has taken the shehnai out of the ambit of just classical, having done collaborations with jazz artistes and more. And, all this with an aim to promote shehnai amongst youngsters!

"Unfortunately, the youngsters today have little inclination to pick up the shehnai for learning it is a laborious and long affair. I feel the more versatile we make the instrument, the more youngsters we can rope in."

Having seen the brothers' success, there have been students from non-music background too trying to learn shehnai and they are more than willing to teach.

Shankars also hail SPICMACAY's work in reaching out to the masses. "SPICMACAY has achieved a lot in the last 20-25 years. It's a pleasure and honour to be associated with such an organisation, which is doing such commendable work on a voluntary basis."

Shankars have last collaborated with Anoushka Shankar for Traces Of You and Traveller — the latter got them a Grammy nomination.

"There is still much more to do," feels Sanjeev who wants the young to come together to save and promote the rich tradition of shehnai.

mona@tribunemail.com

Weight watch
Eat out, with precaution
Madhu Sharma

Dining out is a happening concept in today's world, be it a family, social, official, business or corporate event, as can be appreciated with the fast-growing hotel industry. But, this culture of dining out or even ordering for 'home deliveries', has gradually given rise to a new dilemma of how to balance healthy dining with the compulsions or obligatory responsibilities of social dining, without compromising on one's long-term health consequences.

We know all restaurant food is mostly laden with the undesired fats, carbs and sodium - the three musketeers acting against one's long term health. So, does that mean you have to deprive yourself of all these social activities and outings? Well, no. You can still enjoy going out without compromising on your health, provided you act judiciously and practice healthy eating. Yes, first of all you need to be motivated enough and have a good will power to choose wisely. Then go ahead, keeping in mind these useful tips:

Firstly, do not set out on a totally empty stomach. Fill up partially, with a light, healthy snack like some salad or soup or perhaps a bowl of fruit salad.

Study the menu and look for items with minimum fats, carbs or refined products. Do not hesitate to ask. Have the waiter describe the recipe, like the ingredients used and how it has been cooked. If possible, you could request them to tweak the recipe to minimise extra cheese, cream or butter.

Order fresh lime juice to kick off, while you decide on the menu.

Order items that are steamed, broiled, roasted or grilled, requesting to avoid butter or cream.

For starters, non-vegetarians can opt for grilled, roasted or steamed chicken or fish without excess fat. Vegetarians will be better off opting for some grilled seekh capsicum, broccoli, zucchini, mushrooms, onions or some roasted papad (if sodium is not a concern). Avoid paneer, as it is mostly the high-fat variety. Addition of herbs and spices can enhance the flavor.

Some of the worst appetizers to be kept off from are paneer or chicken tikkas, chicken wings, potato, cheese burgers or potato fingers and all dips.

Order light, clear soups, requesting to get the add-ons separately so you can make your own choice.

You can choose from the salad bar, but avoid items like potatoes, corn, grated cheese, creamy dressings, croutons and opt for lemon squeeze or rice vinegar instead of salad dressing.

Just dip the fork in the dip before helping with the salad, rather than taking spoonfuls or spreading it over.

Order breads without added butter or ghee.

Avoid paneer dishes, as they are high on fat; so are Indian vegetable recipes, unless they are stir fried or steamed or baked.

Keep track of portion sizes, since portion control is the key to safe and moderate indulgence.

Lastly, if you are too tempted to sweeten your taste buds, go ahead, but have just a small bite or portion. If your companions are generous, you could just take a portion off from their share rather than ordering the whole serving.

Above all, don't forget that a regular good session of any physical work out, be it a brisk walk or any sport or even hitting the gym, can balance the indulgences you might love to give in to occasionally.

(Sharma is a Chandigarh-based dietician)

Watch out!

Visitors admire jute items at the exhibition Rado, the pioneering Swiss watchmaker and part of the world's largest watch conglomerate The Swatch Group, unveiled a special collection of watches at the Ethos Summit, Elante Mall, Chandigarh, recently. The Rado Festive Collection offers an exclusive selection of the brand's most celebrated products under the HyperChrome and DiaMaster range. The Rado HyperChrome collection represents a step forward in design for the Swiss master of materials. Optimum comfort and a streamlined, fluid case construction with specially developed, sleek side inserts, combine to bring a flash of brilliance.

Also showcased was the Rado DiaMaster collection in high-tech ceramic. Subtle, minimalistic and chic are the keywords when it comes to the design of these simple, pared-down ceramic beauties. The new face of Rado has a large open dial for easy readability and view. The classics, Rado Integral & Sintra were also on display. The collection starts at Rs 1 lakh and has a beautiful mix of watches. — TNS

Go natural

The National Jute Board, Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, in its pursuit to promote environment-friendly jute products and assist jute exporters, entrepreneurs, artisans, NGOs, SHGs et al has organised a Jute Fair in the Exhibition Hall of Lajpat Rai Bhawan, Sector 15-B, Chandigarh from September 10-16, 2014, from 10 am to 9 pm. A range of jute handicrafts and diversified products, including jute bags, footwear, ornaments, wall hangings, floor coverings etc, made by the entrepreneurs and artisans from different parts of the country have been displayed at the exhibition.

As many as 24 participants from different parts of the country have exhibited their products at the exhibition. Jute products are natural, eco-friendly and biodegradable. Use of these products helps reduce pollution, protect soil erosion, protect environment, improve vegetation and much more. — TNS

Highway treat

Following their 56-year long legacy, Gopal's, the multi-cuisine restaurant-cum-sweet shop opened its sixth tricity outlet in Zirakpur on Wednesday. Gopal's first-ever outlet was opened in Patiala in 1956; the brand ventured into city beautiful in 2005 with its first outlet in Sector 8. Gopal's is a one-stop shop for multi-cuisine food items, fast food, Indian sweets, namkeens and bakery products.

The new outlet flaunts a live kitchen and is spread over an area of 4,400 sq ft and can accommodate more than 150 guests at a time. Food lovers can now savor the taste of Delhi's authentic Bedmi Puri with Laungi and a whole new range of baked cashew sweets and baklava. The outlet, situated on the highway, will open early in the morning so as to serve the people travelling on the highway. The timings of the outlet are 7am to 11pm.

The restaurant menu comprises of a wide variety of cuisines and delicacies, besides desserts and beverages. The most notable items on the menu are Puri Chana with Halwa, Choley Bhature, Veg Cole Slaw Sandwich, Chilly Paneer, Rawa Paneer Dosa, Kessar Lassi, Milk Badaam and Cold Coffee. — TNS

star track
Naughty forty

Adored Bollywood heroine and mother of two Kajol is not the one to mince words. She doesn't seem to care about her career anymore and is happy with her family life. The screen and audiences love her and await the release of her bi-annual films. She talks about turning 40, cosmetic surgery, and more.

Turning 40

My birthday was great! I had a good time. I went out for lunch with my family. My mother (Tanuja), my sister (Tanisha), my kids and my in-laws… were all there. I just chilled. Then I went for a massage and later for some coffee with friends in the evening.

Birthday wishes

Birthdays are special. The first thing I announce in the morning is that no one can say no to me. It's like an unwritten rule. My birthday celebrations began a week before actually. We had an unofficial celebration on Saturday night. We called over friends. The party continued till Sunday. On Monday, my mother and sister took me out. It was a fantastic 40th birthday. I hope the year goes the same way.

Life changes

It's not a big deal. I guess 40 is a sort of benchmark, around which one is supposed to have achieved something. A reminder of whether you are heading in the correct direction in life. Fortunately, I've been 40 all my life. I've been moving in the correct direction. But it does ring a bell. Let's see what's in store.

Age is just a number

Currently it is. It's just a number when you think of the medical advancements and increased longevity. People didn't live up to 70 before. If you lived after 70, they were considered bonus years. Today you can have a hip replacement, heart replacement, knee replacement… any replacement at any age. Your smile needn't dim after you've crossed a certain age. Here, I'm not talking about cosmetic advancement. Medical science makes sure we have a long life. That's why 40 is not scary any more.

Cosmetic surgery

Cosmetic surgery is a dicey topic. If I had a birthmark and if it was disabling me from getting somewhere, I'd get it removed. Victims of acid attacks and fire need such surgery. Cosmetic surgery, on the other hand, is the individual's prerogative, a personal choice. But it cannot be something like I want good cheekbones, so let me have them. One should be sure whether it's necessary to change that feature of the body. If yes, then go for it.

Sushant not a material guy

Two-film-old Sushant Singh Rajput, who has wrapped up shooting for director Dibakar Banerjee's Detective Byomkesh Bakshi, says he prefers unconventional roles and won't do a run-of-the-mill kind even if he will get big bucks for that.

How was the experience of working with Dibakar Bannerjee in Detective Byomkesh Bakshy?

We've wrapped up the film. And I can tell you, it was one more learning experience for me. Dibakar trusted me completely. We had done workshops before we started shooting. So, I knew exactly what he wanted me to do, and how I should go about it. We had a lot of room for experimentation and I think I've grown as an actor. But if you ask what I think of my performance as Byomkesh, I wouldn't be able to tell you.

Why not?

For the first time I didn't check myself on the monitor after every shot. That was a conscious decision. I looked, talked and behaved very differently from the way I am in real life. If I had seen myself on the monitor, I'd have become very self-conscious and it would have been difficult for me to do the next shot. I didn't want a visual self-reference, as that would have distracted me from performing.

How difficult was it for you to transform from a 2014 dude to a 1940s’ guy?

It wasn't difficult. It was interesting. Dibakar gave me lots and lots of tips and reference points. Besides I had a whole team looking after my clothes, make-up, hair etc. They made sure I looked the character. I also saw lots of films from the 1940s and 1950s. How they walked, the way they talked, the way they did this and that....these were details I had to understand on my own. I had to be convinced that I had to behave in a particular way.

Why have all your film roles so far been so unconventional?

An actor has to remember the primary reason why he chose the profession that he did. If every role that I do doesn't challenge me then what is the point of being an actor? Every character that I've chosen has made me evolve as an actor. And I am lucky that my directors have shown so much faith in my abilities.

Would you be uncomfortable playing the designer hero?

I won't be comfortable doing the normal. If I invest six months of my life in a role, the least I expect is to come out of the experience feeling good about myself. I won't play the conventional role even if I get big money for it. Financial considerations are not an issue for me. If push comes to shove, I'll make my own movies. So far I've got the roles I wanted. If in the future that changes then we'll see. — IANS

Doing away with songs and dance

Anushka Sharma If sources are to be believed then Anushka Sharma's maiden production venture NH10 is being made sans any song and dance numbers.

The makers of the film believe that since NH10 has a power-packed storyline, it will drive the audiences to the theatres and that adding songs and dance numbers would affect the seriousness of the script. Hence they decided that the Anushka-Neil Bhoopalam starrer will have only background scores and no lip-sync tracks.

The story follows a young couple taking a road-trip from Gurgaon to Rajasthan and the challenges they face on their sojourn. Directed by Navdeep Singh NH10 is slated for a February 2015 release.

Ayushmann serenades Huma

Ayushmann Khurrana will be seen with Huma Qureshi is his next music video for his new single. The song is about love, longing, rains, and homecoming. Huma plays a Punjabi village girl.




Kay Kay’s latest—Baby

Actor Kay Kay Menon seems to be on a roll with back-to-back releases. We hear that the actor has several films in his kitty, including Saat Unchake and Haider this year and Bombay Velvet next year.

The latest buzz is that the actor has added one more to this list as he has recently signed Neeraj Pandey's upcoming film Baby.

Our source informs us, "Baby stars Akshay Kumar in the lead while Kay Kay will be seen as the antagonist in the film. It's an espionage film on the Intelligence Bureau which will have an extremely gripping plot." When we contacted Kay Kay he confirmed saying, "Yes, I am a part of the film Baby but it's too early to talk about it right now.

Ileana in Fan

Ileana D’Cruz has indeed bagged the lead role in SRK starrer Fan and it is a big break for her. She beat other actresses and YRF finds to the role which is an “interesting” one. SRK has a double role in the movie which is about an obsessed fan.

Manwa Laage launched

The new song Manwa Laage from Happy New Year has been launched and can be viewed online and on television. It is a love song which showcases Deepika Padukone's dancing skills.

A good weekend for Mary Kom

Mary Kom has collected more than Rs 31 crore so far (in the first four days of its release). It has made more money than Mardaani already and Queen as well (comparing the time frame). It is getting good word-of-mouth publicity and Priyanka Chopra's performance is impeccable.

Starry launch

Priyanka Chopra launched her brother Siddharth Chopra's Mugshot Lounge in Pune and played a bartender along with her friends Mubina Rattonsey, Mushtaq Sheikh, Anusha Dandekar and others. The event was a grand success.

chatter box
Lauren is a tough girl

International dancing sensation Lauren Gottlieb, who we've had the pleasure of watching again this season on Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, has been hospitalised. Lauren, who shot to fame after the success of ABCD (Any Body Can Dance), is suffering from kidney stone. With this season of Jhalak coming to an end, Lauren is scheduled for one more performance before the finale. When asked if she is going to take rest, her reply was "The show must go on". Hats off to Lauren's dedication!

End of the road

With many actors opting out and the plot resorting to multiple leaps to keep the audience engaged, the steam finally fizzled out and popular show Pavitra Rishta is all set to end now. Buzz has it that the show will go off-air next month.

Manish awarded

The 13th Telly Awards function was recently held at Filmcity in Goregaon, a Western Mumbai suburb, and Manish Paul won the Most Popular and Loved Face as well as Best Anchor Award. Congratulations!

Mika’s repartee

being cool: Mika Singh with Sunny Leone Mika Singh, who was recently spotted at the music launch of his upcoming production venture Balwinder Singh Famous Ho Gaya, had the audience in splits when he reacted to Rakhi Sawant's comments that she made recently on TV show Comedy Nights With Kapil. Rakhi had said "Jabse Mika mere muh lage hai tabse woh popular hue hai". When a reporter asked for Mika's comment on Sawant's statement, the singer in his blatant style replied, "Laga toh main bahut jaga tha." The wacky reply had the guests in splits! He further added, "Waise woh apni jaga right hai. Har mard ke peeche ek aurat ka haat hota hai. And if I need more popularity, I will surely go to her again."

A bundle of energy

Bollywood star Akshay Kumar, who is currently part of the show Dare 2 Dance, talks about it and more.

Apart from money, what makes you do a television show?

I keep joking that I am doing this show for money but honestly even if I stop working, my son doesn't have to work all his life. But that's not the point; it is my passion that keeps me going. I get excited every time I do something new. I feel lucky to be in a profession where I can get to experience so much.

What's different about this show?

It is a unique show that mixes dance and action. The contestants are dared and challenged to dance in extremely tough outdoor conditions.

Why have you decided to not eliminate contestants in each episode?

I visited my son's school and there, they don't have rankings when kids race. Everybody just participates. So I did the same thing in the show, where I keep giving them red and green cards if they need to be given a warning or if they have performed well, but we don't eliminate till they have been given a red card a number of times. I appreciate that the Life OK team did not control me on who I wanted to keep or eliminate, which is quite often the case, and I could decide freely.

Where do you get your energy from?

I enjoy doing things like this and if your work is your passion, you automatically get energy for it.

Does age worry you in any way?

Personally, I think that if you take care of your body, oil it, and treat it properly, and it will give you 10 years more service. — HRM

Astro turf
P. Khurrana

ARIES: Relationships will be in the limelight today. There will be some conflicts due to stubbornness, ego, pride, envy or simple, self-centeredness on either party's side. Tarot message: Balance in all aspects is recommended. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 25.

TAURUS: Focus on your budget and plan a long-term savings strategy. Don't let the monotony of work get to you. With the festival season close at hand, you will need to watch your sleep and diet . Tarot message: Play your cards close to your chest. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 42.

GEMINI: Love and romance will be the highlight today. The situation at home will be peaceful. In certain relationships, you will need to be extra patient and not form hasty opinions. Tarot message: Take no chances despite the assurance of people. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 52.

CANCER: 'The queen of cups' suggests communication will continue to be vital today. There will be some delays, especially before the middle of the day. Health will remain stable. Tarot message: Don't reveal your plan of action to anyone. Lucky colour: Royal-blue. Magic number: 29.

LEO: Work and professional endeavours will be the highlight today. Have faith in your abilities and everything will be possible. Relationships will deepen and become stronger. Tarot message: Be creative to retain a grip over your business. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 33.

VIRGO: Many of you will form new relationships that will benefit you, personally as well as professionally. Finances look good and there will be some windfall towards the end of the day. Tarot message: A caring attitude heals old wounds. Lucky colour: Pale-yellow. Magic number: 65.

LIBRA: Lovers, friends and partners will be quite demanding, wanting to know the reasons for your behaviour. However, you will be able to deal with this new development easily. Tarot message: Plan your life better to avoid delays. Lucky colour: Green. Magic number: 60.

SCORPIO: Your mental, physical and emotional states will be in equilibrium. Your confidence will be high and at work, you will be open to taking on more challenges and responsibilities. Tarot message: Strive for perfection at work. Lucky colour: Golden-brown. Magic number: 36.

SAGITTARIUS: Increase in the flow of money will continue. Emotions will be particularly sensitive and you can get hurt a little too quickly. Tarot message: Be sure of involving yourself as much as possible in a new project. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 50.

CAPRICORN: The time is just right to put everything in perspective and remove the element of chaos that has been prevalent for some time. Splurging should also be avoided. Tarot message: Do not leave things up to chance. Lucky colour : Turquoise. Magic number: 57.

AQUARIUS: There will be a flow of ideas, communication and emotions today. You will be able to come closer to your spouse or partner as well as family members. Tarot message: Don't be too certain about obtaining a clearance. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 63.

PISCES: Those in business will face some conflict of interest with partners. At home, you will have to help out a younger relation with some work and also be supportive towards others. Tarot message: Think more about long-term interests. Lucky colour: Silver-grey. Magic number: 44.

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is September 12...

This year, you will find it extremely difficult to handle people who try to pull you down. You'll earn more than what you thought. Speculation will not prove beneficial.

Your strengths: Practical, loyal, hardworking, analytical and kind.

Weaknesses: Worry, shyness, overly critical of self and others; all work and no play.

Charismatic marks: A certain, reserved manner marks the classic Virgo. Virgos are generally medium to slight in build.

Likes: Cleanliness, animals, healthy food, books and nature.

Dislikes: Taking centrestage, rudeness, asking for help.

Positive colours: Golden, Red.

Select days: Sunday, Monday.

Favourable numbers: 1,4,2,7.

Gems recommended: Yellow Sapphire, Red Coral.

Charity on birthday: Donate fruits at a religious place.

You share your birthday with Prachi Desai (September 12, 1988), who acted in the movie Rock On. She was also a part of Kasauti Zindagi Ki. Prachi later entered Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa. Her horoscope shows a lot of success in 2018.





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