Hum fan Bhagat Singh de
Jasmine Singh

Bhagat Singh continues to inspire, not just the revolutionary souls but also the creative ones, who have captured his essence through their songs

Preet Harpal
Preet Harpal


Nishawn Bhullar

He resurfaces when the odds increase, he sits like a mark embellished in many hearts, sometimes like a tattoo on a hand, graffiti on a tee or insignia on the back of a vehicle. More than often, he comes in the form of a pagri, speaking out against injustice.

Bhagat Singh, the youth icon, the heroic freedom fighter has left a splinter in the souls that propels many, like the Punjabi singers to express it through their songs.

Close to his birth anniversary, we turn on the volume of songs that have been sung in his praise and also learn what makes him the most sought-after hero for these entertainers.

Make some noise…

Bhagat Singh has probably more fan pages and active online groups that still follow and spread his teachings than any other hero. Popular actor singer Diljit Dosanjh is a Bhagat Singh fan. His song Main Fan Bhagat Singh Da talks about his bravado and revolutionary attitude. "This is what we need today, Bhagat Singh, a person who could fight injustice and someone who could stare in the eyes of the ruling power and dare to raise his voice against them," shares Diljit, who feels we all need to remember that we don't have to bear slavery. "This slavery could be of any kind, from corruption, unemployment, to any kind of wrong-doings. When I sang the track I could feel every muscle of my body shouting against injustice."

The young revolutionary has inspired Punjabi singers who evoke his teachings through their tracks which either have a folk or contemporary base. Nishawn Bhullar, singer-actor, is known to be a great fan of Bhagat Singh. His song in 2010, Tere Photo Bhagat Singh Kyun Nai Lagdi Notan Tey, received instant popularity with fans from abroad thanking him for raising this question.

"I would often wonder that a young man who had a family like us didn't think twice before giving up his life for the country. Shouldn't this sacrifice be remembered and honoured? Shouldn't we have his picture on the currency notes?" he still wonders. Bhullar finds Bhagat Singh's entire persona very appealing. "It is a nice thing to see the younger generation see him as their icon. No wonder his picture is there on just about every gaddi's rear window. He is alive in our heart and each time we sing on him, it changes so much in us."

Let's face it

On his birth anniversary, online youth forums, almost 64 in number, are sharing his pictures and issues that he stood against. Singer-actor Preet Harpal wears his turban the way Bhagat Singh did once a while. "It brings out the revolutionary in me," he says. Preet has also dedicated a track to Bhagat Singh. "I am sure every singer who has sung about him can feel the energy when they dress up like him and take his name."

jasmine@tribunemail.com

The song of success
Manpriya Singh

Tommy Hilfiger, who is in India on a two-day trip, says a big 'thank you' to Punjabi youth who have not just made his creations their wardrobe staple, but also incorporated the brand name in the lyrics of many songs

A billion-dollar empire cannot be solely credited to the right colour palette and interesting hemlines. There has to be the vision of a bigger picture and astute business acumen steering all that stands for fashion. American designer Tommy Hilfiger has always known where to be. From making a foray into India through his clothes in 2003 to being personally present in the same country to celebrate the decade that's been. "I've visited India many times and have fantastic memories of traveling here. But this while, I'm excited to be back to celebrate our brand's tenth anniversary," he shares, ahead of a busy two-day schedule fitted into which are, 'dinners in New Delhi and Mumbai to an in store event to meeting with aspiring design students at the National Institute of Fashion Technology."

He adds, "On the occasion, we've introduced two limited edition designs; a shawl for women and a traditional men's bandi. We've reinterpreted these Indian garments with our preppy twist. The suede bandi has contrast stitching, monogram buttons and a striped interior lining. The wool shawl incorporates a sophisticated white paisley jacquard on a navy blue base."

Thank you, Punjab

It's a place he can proudly said to have nailed and thereby choose to focus on the potential and make no mention of the competition and the several other international labels making a mark into India. "We want to continue to build upon our positioning. We believe India's growing fashion industry is a strong platform to continue to expand our business and reach more consumers."

A few of them he already has and how! Making his way into the wardrobes, youth, popular culture and even music! The countless songs with a comic reference to Tommy merchandise. He responds, "It's very exciting that our brand is recognised and popular among Punjabi musicians and singers. I'm honored they mention our brand in their songs and I'd like to extend a big thank you to the Punjabi youth and community."

Indian inspiration

It's a time of the year when the Indian streets (amidst the glory of festivity) can put any shade card to shame. When he can borrow a thing or two from the splendour of the silhouettes and brightness of the colours. Perhaps, he already has. At least that's what he claims, "I do love traditional Indian dress. Our Indian consumers have a great sense of style. They love classic cuts and silhouettes, redone with their own twist, that's relaxed and cool. I find traditional Indian fashions very inspiring, from the beautiful fabrics to stunning colours and details. I've often been influenced by these when designing our seasonal collections. I look at these inspirations and re-imagine them with our signature preppy twist."

For instance, "I like Rajesh Pratap Singh's clean and minimal esthetic, and Sabyasachi's stunning traditional designs. Miuniku is also a talented duo to watch - they combine colour, print and silhouette in a way that's very fresh and unique."

Cool and classic

Credited with dressing up the explorers inside and shifting muses from the vintage rock style to beach side, he says, "I describe my personal style as classic, American and cool. I like comfortable, sophisticated pieces that transition effortlessly from day to night. My go-to pieces are a classic tailored navy blazer, a white button-down shirt and a great pair of jeans."

It's been a busy September for the designer, where he's just done predicting the next summer while at New York Fashion Week to back to the markets impossible to ignore. Like we said, he knows exactly where to be.

manpriya@tribunemail.com

First-day-first show
Chills & thrills

3 AM is a Hindi horror film directed by Vishal Mahadkar. The film stars Rannvijay Singh, Anindita Nayar, Salil Acharya and Kavin Dave in the lead roles. Rannvijay (Sunny), who plays the role of a reality show host, proposes his girlfriend Anindita Nayar (Saarah) on the celebration day of his 100th episode of the show. Saarah, who plays the role of a journalist and is seen doing a story on the Mumbai's haunted locations, is killed enigmatically during her research at Rudra Mills in Mumbai. Meanwhile, Sunny, takes up a horror show assignment.

Ordinary attempt

I think this film explores a new dimension of horror. However, Rannvijay and Anindita Nayar cannot pull the film through. Now that Bollywood is experimenting with horror movies, 3AM just comes across as an ordinary attempt.

Vrinda Singh, student

One-time watch

A few scenes in the film are quite scary. It's not purely a horror film. It has some elements of romance and even comedy. 3 AM is just a one-time watch. The story line is quite ordinary too.

Harman Singh, student

Nothing great

This film has nothing new, nothing great or specific to offer. In my opinion, the film tries to explore horror in a very subtle way while projecting itself as a horror film. That's where the film went wrong.

Anahita Sharma, student

Complete waste

Balwinder Singh Famous Ho Gaya features two very popular Bollywood singers in the lead roles — Mika Singh and Shaan. The film is directed by Sunil Agnihotri, and produced by Vandana Jain and Sunil Agnihotri. Mika Singh has also produced this Comedy movie.

Bad plot

It's one of the worst movies that I've ever seen. Staying home and staring at the wall is a far better way to pass your time than going for this. The film offers bad jokes, no plot, and singers trying to act.

Davinder Singh, agriculturist

Complete torture

Please do not waste your time and money going for this film. It's a very bad film and a complete torture.

Amanbir Singh, student

(As told to Amarjot Kaur)

Chatter box
Voice to reckon with

AXN is airing the second part of the new season debut of The Voice, which earned 10 Emmy nominations this year. Last year, it became the first talent search series to win the Emmy for 'Outstanding Reality-Competition Program'. The seventh season of The Voice will feature Gwen Stefani and Pharrell Williams as celebrity musician coaches for the first time, joining Adam Levine and Blake Shelton in search of America's next voice. Watch The Voice this Saturday, September 27 at 8 pm.

Character calling

Suhasi Dhami, who plays Parvati in Nikhil Sinha's Devon Ka Dev Mahadev on Life OK, speaks about her role and more.

How do you feel on being the third Parvati after replacing Pooja Bose?

In mythological shows, the character is more important and the show modules actors accordingly. I am happy that I am part of this show.

How do you maintain yourself?

I actually don't do anything. I just try to control my sweet tooth. But lately, I have started working out in the gym. I like to do yoga and run in the open ground.

You are Drashti Dhami's bhabhi. How do you feel on her success as an actress?

I am really proud of her. She will keep growing with her talent. My good wishes are with her for the future.

How is it working with Mohit Raina?

I have worked with Mohit Raina seven years back in a show called Antariksh, so I know him. Mohit and I played husband and wife. My character name was Urmi. I am happy that I got a chance to work with him again.

How is he as a co-star?

As a co-star, Mohit is very co-operative. He makes me feel comfortable so it's easy working with him. He is so much into his character that he is always very calm and peaceful on the sets. — TNS

Natasa eyes Bollywood!

Serbian model-actress Natasa Stankovic, who appeared in an item number in Satyagraha, says she accepted Bigg Boss to build a career in Bollywood. Natasa is one of the 15 contestants to participate in the eighth season of the Salman Khan-hosted controversial reality show, which requires contestants to speak in Hindi.

"I decided to do the show because I want to improve my Hindi, which is not good at all. I need to learn the language as I want to stay here and join the Hindi film industry. I hope that the show helps me get into films; not just songs but good roles in movies," Natasa said before entering the house. The model said she was nervous about being the only foreigner inside the house and how she would be perceived by fellow participants. "There are a lot of emotions inside me. I am scared, excited as well as nervous. It is going to be very difficult because I have never lived with so many people before. Also, I know it will not be easy being a foreigner," she said. — HRM

Run for fun

India's first and only family marathon titled 'SAB Family Funathon' was successfully flagged off recently. This unique and first-of-its-kind fun with fitness initiative brought together 10,000 families. It has also been considered for the Limca Book of Records as the first family marathon in India. Organised in Ahmedabad, wowing the crowds with their presence were SAB TV stars, including Sudeepa Singh, Sharmili Raj and Shreedhar Watsar, who were present to propagate the cause of healthy lifestyles while encouraging participants at the race. The marathon celebrated family fun in a fitting manner.

A strong chord

Popular show Saath Nibhana Saathiya, which has been on air for more than four years, recently completed 1,200 episodes. The show has taken a number of leaps over the years, but the strong content has managed to keep the interest of audiences intact. The story about love, marriage and companionship has struck a chord with the viewers.

Party girl!

Every year, Munisha Khatwani's birthday party is the most-talked-about among television celebrities and the who's who of the TV industry attend it. She says, "I love to throw a lavish birthday party every year. This is one time of the year when I truly let my hair down."

Rhea all for telly

Anil Kapoor's daughter Rhea, who had made her debut as a producer in 2010 with Aisha, wants to venture into television. She says TV shows consume time, but she is planning to do it patiently.

Star track
Shraddha’s wish

Shraddha Kapoor is very keen to show her upcoming film, Haider, to her first ever co-star. Yes, the young actress, who made her debut in the industry with Amitabh Bachchan is very keen for him to watch her film.

There has been a commendable amount of growth that Shraddha's graph has shown from her debut film and now. The actress has given back-to-back super hits recently and has received immense appreciation from audiences and people from the industry for Aashiqui 2 and Ek Villain. Now, as Shraddha will be seen in Vishal Bharadwaj's film next, she has expressed her wish to show the film to Amitji before it is released. The actress has asked her team to make the necessary arrangements for the screening if he is able to make it. She wants him to see the film and take valuable suggestions and advice from him. He is the best person to notice her growth as he was around when she took her first step.

Shraddha's next film, Haider will show her in a very different light and her character is very important to the title character of the film, Haider.

The team of Haider has also promoted the film on Kaun Banega Crorepati's latest season. They donated their winnings to the cause of relief work for the Kashmir floods.

Shraddha Kapoor shares, "I made my debut with Amit sir and he was very supportive of me. Now, that my next film is about release, I would love to have him watch the film and take advice from him."

I am not a perfectionist: Aamir

Bollywood star Aamir Khan talks about his television show, films and more.

Satyameva Jayate

The show has been my most ambitious project. This began as a dream some six years ago. When Uday Shankar of Star TV asked me why I was not doing TV, it got me thinking. I realised that TV is a strong medium and it should be used to make people think. Uday coaxed me with the idea that I should think of dominating television now. That is how the spark ignited. After that meeting I actually started thinking about it passionately and produced and anchored the show.

Different than others

My choice as an actor has always been very different from that of other actors. There was no message at all in Delhi Belly. Basically, I have been part of entertaining films like Ghajini, Fanaa, Peepli Live, Dhobi Ghat and Rang de Basanti, besides socially relevant films like Lagaan, Taare Zameen Par, 3 Idiots and Talaash.

Deciding factor

The script demands the actor. To some extent it is the script that chooses the actor. I liked the script of Lagaan when Ashutosh came to me to narrate it but said no to it because it had an unusual subject and I wasn't frankly sure of its acceptance twelve years back and it went round and round and came to me at last, though I had agreed to be part of John Mathan Mathew's Sarfarosh immediately. The physical part of generally building a part as an actor is usually easy though I feel that the toughest part is to get into the head of the character, with the help of the director.

No lobbying

In the past, all films produced by my banner like Lagaan, Taare Zameen Par and Jaane Tu Ya Na Jaane Na have been bestowed with national awards but as a matter of policy, we at Aamir Khan Productions decided not to enter our film Peepli Live for the national awards at all. This decision of mine had nothing to do with Anusha Rizvi who had directed the film, though she went on record expressing her displeasure that we did not send her film for awards. We stopped applying for the national awards, after Taare Zameen Par. I did not send even Kiran Rao's film Dhobi Ghaat for consideration for the national awards. Let's face facts. I am a creative person and I do not want to lobby for awards. I did not even lobby for the Oscar though Lagaan was nominated for the Oscars and was in the top five contenders.

Mr Perfectionist

I am not at all a perfectionist. It is the media which has given me this title. 'Ooparwala' alone is the perfectionist. I just take my work seriously.

Vivek rejects American TV show

Bollywood actors signing international projects has always made headlines. In fact, they often express how collaborating with global projects can bring them more recognition. But it seems that Vivek Oberoi was not as fortunate. Although the actor was approached by the makers of the American show, Homeland, he could not be part of the popular series due to date issues.

Vivek was approached two months ago. "The makers of the television show had come to India to meet Vivek. Over a meeting, they briefed him about the new season's concept and his action-packed role. Although, Vivek was interested, he requested them to wait for his nod," informs a source close to the actor. He eventually refused the offer owing to his packed schedule. "Vivek had to dedicate two months for the shoot. But, he had already given his dates to two of his upcoming Bollywood projects. So, he told the makers that he can't be part of the show," adds the source.

When contacted, Vivek confirms, saying, "I had to turn it down as my dates were already locked."

Emotional bond

Ekkees Toppon ki Salaami is a story about a son's journey of getting recognition for his father in society. Divyendu Sharma plays Anupam Kher's son in the film. While watching the rushes of the film Divyendu Sharma got very emotional at a particular scene. It was the one where he reads his dead father's letter. While watching this particular scene, Divyendu got so emotional that he went and called his father for a long chat.

Even while shooting the scene he got very emotional. It was a very tough shot as it required him to portray very strong emotions. And Divyendu was so moved by the scene, that he shed real tears for it. Anupam Kher and Divyendu Sharma have portrayed a beautiful father-son relationship in Ekkees Toppon ki Salaami that is honest and realistic. Off screen too, the two actors share a very close relationship. They have worked together in the past too. Anupam Kher is like a father to Divyendu, always guiding him and giving him honest feedback about his work.

Now a biopic on Dhoni!

After Bhaag Milkha Bhaag and Mary Kom, get ready for another biopic on an Indian sports star.

The first look of MS Dhoni—The Untold Story is out and it will star Sushant Singh Rajput as the cricketer. A few weeks ago, there were rumours that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) would oppose the making of this feature film. But BCCI brushed aside any such rumours and mentioned that they have no issues until and unless it hampers the professional life of the Indian captain. The film has been directed by director Neeraj Pandey.

All for films

Huma Qureshi is a connoisseur of world cinema and she watches as many movies as she can in her spare time. She is also a regular delegate at the MAMI Film Festival and is lending support to the same. She likes to learn from world cinema.

Farhan’s experiment

Farhan Akhtar is one multi-talented person who is always experimenting and pushing himself out of his comfort zone. He will make his debut in Marathi cinema with a special appearance in a film called Por Bazaar. He loved the script.

Sanjay’s help for flood victims

With relief efforts and help pouring in for people in the flood-affected areas of Kashmir, Sanjay Dutt too has initiated a drive among his jail inmates. Dutt convinced his jail inmates to donate one day's wages to the Kashmir Relief Fund.

Music to the ear
Mona

Well-known classical vocalists Rajan and Sajan Mishra are the torch-bearers of Banaras Gharana. They continue to learn till date and delight the audiences the world over

Rajan and Sajan Mishra represent a 350-year-old legacy; undeterred they have not only carried it forward, but also passed it on to the next generation. Renowned Indian classical vocalists, who represent Khayal style of the Banaras Gharana, in Chandigarh to be part of the Ninth Brahspati Sangeet Sewa Samman, share excerpts from their journey so far.

Learning curve

Their training started early and has carried on till date. "Today, as we are in a state of flux, classical music isn't enjoying the status it deserves but over the years those appreciating it are only increasing. And we are talking globally," says Rajan Mishra. The journey wasn't smooth for them either, but he says, "It's the struggle only that brings out the true character." Decades on, they have continued their saadhna; awards like Padma Bhushan and Sangeet Natak Akademi have come their way. "Challenges have made us strong," says Sajan.

Filmy stint

The filmy music scene today is not that heartening; they agree and blame it to some extent on digital music banks. "Digitalisation had made the music sound better, but the sound coming from a piano or one picked up from a synthesizer would never be the same," says Rajan. With close to 60 CDs to their credit, they have given music to films as well. Sur Sangam was one in which they worked with Laxmikant-Pyarelal and cherished. "We did the songs in the film with live orchestra comprising 150 plus musicians," says Rajan.

Honest take

They have passed on the baton to their sons Ritesh and Rajnish Mishra, and are proud of their success. "Both the boys have done beautifully and are known today. We are happy that they are getting their due in time," says Sajan. We want to know if the daughters of the family too are joining the field; Rajan comes up with an honest answer, "We belong to an orthodox family where women were veiled and didn't venture out of the home much. Things are changing, girls are immensely talented and our granddaughters are taking to music."

Training hard

While classical arts require time and patience, today's generation brought up on instant food wants quick results. "In our field, it takes a decade or more of training before one can get on the stage; there are no shortcuts," they echo. And they have found diligent students in their sons and students. "Many come to learn, some run away; those who stick are doing very well, they all are A-grade artistes now."

Memory bank

Having toured the world, this duo considers their performance at Royal Albert Hall, London (twice) and Lincoln Centre, New York, to be the memorable ones. "Every artiste dreams of being there someday; to be there in front of a packed audience and appreciated is what we hold close to our heart." Their last CD was Bhairav Se Bhairvi Tak released by Times music and their dream remains to promote love, peace and brotherhood through their music. "Music can also put the frayed fabric of our society back into place. The onus lies on parents to put children in touch with their roots. Once they know of their past, they wont be lost for sure," they opine

That definitely doesn't mean that they are against the West, "Take the best from the West: their value of time, work culture, cleanliness." In their music too they are a stickler for tradition, "Yes, people do fusion, but our take is if Raag Malkauns and Raag Megh have stuck around for over 1,000 years, there is some sidhi in that. To carry them in their pure form is what we believe in."

Watch out

The 9th Brahspati Sangeet Sewa Samman will have upcoming classical singer Neha Mishra and ace flautist Pandit Ronu Majumdar perform on Saturday, 6pm. Sunday, 11 onwards would bring kathak exponent Rajendra Gangani with his students. The performances are at Sabras Auditorium, Post Graduate Government College for Girls - 42, Chandigarh.

mona@tribunemail.com

Here comes the bride…
Manpriya Singh

…And when the bride is ready to walk the aisle, can those who deal with everything related to a wedding be far behind? So, Bridal Asia, the wedding exhibition, makes its appearance in the Capital to make things perfect

The thing about being a pioneer is that no matter who gets to the top, you will always be the first. A decade-and-a-half ago, when it was conceived of, Bridal Asia was all things only. Today, it is all things aggressive.

It was an era before the deluge of weekend wedding and lifestyle exhibitions took place in every nook and corner of the country. As the exhibition happily rolls out its yet another edition in the Capital, Divya Gurwara couldn't have been more proud at watching her brainchild celebrate 16 years. "For the last 16 years, we have stayed relevant to the changing trends of the fashion industry. We have managed to do this by sheer effort we put in the research and careful selection of our participants," she shares.

Name dropping

This year, the participants range from big names like Sabyasachi Mukherjee, Tarun Tahiliani, Bhairavi Jaikishan, Anita Dongre, Varun Bahl, Vikram Phadnis, Abha Dalmia among others to the newer lot namely, Dev R Nil, Nidhi Tholia, Ridhi Mehra, Nupur Kanoi and Madsam Tinzin to name a few.

She shares, "We pride ourselves for being the launch pad for emerging designers. Our footfall have a sizeable portion of people from leading stores who see our curated list of young designers as a sure shot winner for their stores.

Brand it

Apart from the usual big names symbolic of Indian bridal finery, there will be key luxury brands like Chloe, Burberry, Prada, Gucci marking their presence. Yet another participant they would like to highlight this season is Adobe Idols. A concept that allows a three-dimensional life like replica of the human form, further making special occasions memorable.

North ahoy!

There is no getting by the grandeur of an Indian wedding without due reference to the North. She shares, "We have had a stupendous response from cities like Jaipur, Ludhiana, Chandigarh, Jalandhar and Amritsar." As for jewellery, the participating names include Ananatara and Jewels by Queenie among others.

Going places

There is something else too she would like to add on the participants. "Thanks to the social media, most of the people are aware of the list of participants and come with a focused itinerary." While Divya does make bridal entourage from different cities travel each year to the Capital, she has also taken the trouble herself. "In the past, we have travelled to Kolkata, Pakistan and Dubai. The response was overwhelming. For the time being we are focusing on Delhi but what the future may have in store, you never know."

The three-day exhibition will be on at The Ashok, New Delhi from September 27

manpriya@tribunemail.com

Master Chef
Dhokla goes green
Manju Dewan

Dhokla is the eternal light snack to be had at any time. Here, we have tried a different type of dhokla with capsicums. Colourful to look at, easy to make, it sure becomes a winner. It can be tried out by novice chefs as well.

Method: Mix besan, yoghurt, salt and methi powder. Keep aside for four hrs. Heat oil; add mustard seeds and curry leaves. When the seeds and leaves starts to splutter, add besan mixture. Stir well. Now, add the rest of the ingredients. Pour the batter into each capsicum and steam it. For dill sauce, mix all the ingredients together keep aside for chilling. Serve the dhokla with dill sauce

As told to Poonam Bindra

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: 'The Emperor' gets you in touch with your leadership qualities. Today your best approach is not to confront people, but to go about your own tasks with a great dedication.

Tarot message: Be firm in extracting a commitment.

Lucky colour: Crimson.

Magic number: 29.

TAURUS: The third eye of "Lord Shiva" opens for an infinitesimal moment to instigate a major transformation. You have a renewed sense of enthusiasm in projects having a meaning for you.

Tarot message: Do not leave things up to chance.

Lucky colour: Red.

Magic number: 32.

GEMINI: 'The Moon' takes you through a difficult Karmic situation today. Important issues come to light before 4 pm. You must address them even though there is a dark underside to them.

Tarot message: Be active in catching a financial opportunity.

Lucky colour: Yellow.

Magic number: 47.

CANCER: You draw 'The Ace of Cups', which brings beauty, pleasure and happiness. Subtle pressure within organizations, or even on friends, seems necessary to get things done.

Tarot message: Remember it is the thought that counts, not the price tag. Lucky colour: Saffron.

Magic number: 45.

LEO: 'The Lovers' inspire you to climb new heights and actualise creative ideas. There are shake-ups in relationships today; the challenge is to control them.

Tarot message: Get a clear perspective before taking important decisions.

Lucky colour: Peach.

Magic number: 51.

VIRGO: You make an impact and shine like 'The Star'. You can take the lead today; set the pace and control the emotional agenda. You are likely to work closely with children or have much to do with pets. Tarot message: Work can pose minor difficulties.

Lucky colour: Green.

Magic number: 33.

LIBRA: "The wheel of fortune" spins in some good fortune. Today you are capable to handle more than two or three situations at the same time. A partner can be a stabilizing influence.

Tarot message: Involve in a new project.

Lucky colour: Burgundy.

Magic number: 58.

SCORPIO: 'The Priests' usher in a pure, exalted and gracious influence. You are in a confused situation where what you want to do, but do not exactly agree with what you've been taught.

Tarot message: Try to put your cares to one side.

Lucky colour: Purple.

Magic number: 61.

SAGITTARIUS: 'Nine Golden Cups' augur happiness. After an active night, you will appreciate a peaceful day. You're in a position to stir things up, but be very careful about arousing a reaction against what you're doing.

Tarot message: Retain the fruits of your hardwork. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 27.

CAPRICORN: 'The Queen of Wands' allows you to achieve professional success with calm authority. You can blend logic and intuition to come up with new, creative directions.

Tarot message: Try to accomplish long-term tasks.

Lucky colour: Rainbow-pastles.

Magic number: 39.

AQUARIUS: 'The Queen of Swords' brings mental clarity and perspective in a chaotic situation. You work best with people who share a common vision.

Tarot message: Take care of interests and portfolios of your work.

Lucky colour: Orange.

Magic number: 42.

PISCES: 'Three Wands' representing the universal - Brahma, Vishnu, Mahesh - greet you today. You will be able to establish your business and expand in new directions.

Tarot message: Do not play into the hands of a shrewd set of colleagues. Lucky colour: Peach.

Magic number: 34.

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is September 27...

Being a Libra born on September 27, some of the positive traits are that you are diplomatic, romantic and charming. You will face some problems in your professional life. Entrepreneurs will take a risk to start a new line of business and recruit employees. Struggle with partners or sudden rivals in business or office will disturb. Transfer or job rotation is also likely. The first half of 2015 is especially favourable, as a considerable income will come your way. However, difficult financial situations will appear in November and December 2014. You will be blessed with good health. The chances for unnecessary disputes are there. Therefore, try to avoid as much as possible.

Positive colours: Golden, Red.

Select days: Tuesday, Friday.

Favourable numbers: 3, 6, 9.

Gems recommended: Red Coral, Yellow Sapphire.

Charity on birthday: Donate utensils to the needy.

You share your birthday with Ravi Chopra (September 27, 1946), producer and director of Zameer (1975), The Burning Train, Mazdoor, Baghban and Baabul. He has also directed the highly successful television serial, Mahabharat. He will continue his successful career.

Nine-yard wonder!

Adding to the festive cheer, HomeShop18 and popular Bollywood star as well successful entrepreneur, Shilpa Shetty Kundra have joined hands to launch the SSK Line of designer sarees exclusively for HomeShop18 customers. True to her style, the SSK collection reflects Shilpa Shetty Kundra's elegant style that will now be available for one and all. The carefully crafted range will be available at an affordable range starting from Rs 1999 exclusively on HomeShop18 — TV, web and mobile platform. The SSK collection will add the desired style quotient to every special occasion with its embellishments of sequins, crystal work and zari embroidery, and carefully chosen fabrics like chiffon and georgette.

Speaking about the collection, Shilpa Shetty Kundra said, "The Saree is one of the most popular and versatile attire, making you look glamorous and dignified at the same time. In this exclusive collaboration with HomeShop18, I've enjoyed experimenting with unique styles to suit different tastes. The SSK collection has been designed keeping in mind an Indian ethos with a modern twist, light fabrics and embellishments enhancing the richness. The biggest prerequisite is budget-friendly."

— TNS

Time to redecorate


Collector’s delight: An inside view of the InV Home store

InV Home, a home décor store, opens a grand 2,300 sq ft store at the second floor of Elante Mall, Chandigarh, which displays a variety of home décor products. The parent company, ALM, had been exporting textiles and furniture since 2002.

InV Home, a dedicated luxury home décor brand (the retail wing of ALM), was conceptualised and borne in April 2012 by Nitin Jain and his wife, Ritika Jain. With a rich experience of over 14 years, working with luxury international brands, they have presented luxury living solutions beautifully through this venture. InV Home houses designer furniture, which can be customized, home textiles (cushions, duvets, bed spreads, rugs), aroma candles, perfume diffusers, spa collection, lighting (chandeliers and lamp shades), dining and tableware accessories as well as dinner ware collection from France and UK, Flower collection from Europe and France, art gallery and artifacts. — TNS





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