Making things possible
Jasmine Singh

In Chandigarh, actor and host Aamir Khan talks about the new season of Satyamev Jayate: Mumkin Hai and how the show has affected him personally

You don't lose him even for a minute; neither does he, even for a fraction of a second. Even when the hustle bustle gains weight, when anxious faces around inch closer with their 3G phones, when there is so much to be asked in a stipulated time — you don't lose actor Aamir Khan.

He maintains his patience through the length and breadth of your queries, dedicating himself to de-threading them. For a moment, he looks into the white flooring, holds his gaze and then springs back. "Whatever I do, I do it will all my passion, be it films or a TV show. I like to give myself completely to the moment that might not return," Aamir says, as he cites the motivation behind his work.

Slightly beefed up, dressed in a black T-shirt and denims, Aamir means business from the word 'go'. And the business is to chat us up about the third season of Satyamev Jayate-Mumkin Hai while he is Chandigarh. The much-talked-about show, the show that made much difference, is moving ahead with new stories, newer approach, but the same idea - to bring about a change. "I never say that I can bring about change single-handedly; I cannot do it alone. Yes, in my capacity, I can share stories, tell you about certain things, certain problems and, the rest, each one of us needs to take up issues in our own capacity," he says, as he rolls his tongue on his lips, an act that is so much a part of him.

Those of you who have seen the promos of the show for the season must have noticed the absence of Aamir in it. A marketing turn, something he is known to be a master of, without having attended a single IIT class on the subject. He smiles, giving depth to the creases around his eyes. "It is not that we have brain-stormed about it. Change is organic, the promos you see on TV are just to inform the audience that the show is coming; it doesn't signify the change. In fact, the change is when the governor of Gwalior makes the city accessible to physically disabled people, or when in MP, on a daily basis, almost 4 lakh people get free medicine," he states facts, impeccably. You don't expect Mr Perfectionist to go wrong with facts, or any decision, for that matter.

So, when he let the idea of doing something better, something that could bring some change, help someone through his TV show, go around, he knew what he was doing. "I was and am doing the films that I want to, until I spoke to my friend, Satya, the director of the show who was my classmate. I was toying with the idea of doing something when I was approached to do a game show on TV, something I wasn't interested in. TV was growing then and I decided to do something that could make a difference, thus came the show."

It is the same show that has shown stories on people who are fighting their small battles, jostling with injustice and those who are doing something to bring about in a change.

The show has been a touching experience for Aamir, personally. "The change could be trifle, since I don't observe myself, I don't know what change it is but my friends and people around me can definitely see it. I wouldn't have seen or known about sad incidents and experiences, had I not done the show," shares Aamir, who feels that every episode has touched him immensely. "I think the show on child abuse and rape was emotionally touching to the core."

Does this mean he would be sharing similar problems from his industry as well? Smiling, repeating the sliding tongue-on-lip act, he says, "Yes, the industry is indeed facing problems, maybe in the upcoming episodes, you might see something."

jasmine@tribunemail.com

In search of elation
Somya Abrol

TV actress Mreenal Deshraj has been through her fair share of experiments to finally find contentment in her work

As good as it gets: Mreenal Deshraj

For someone who's defined by the number of negative characters she's played, Mreenal Deshraj comes across as a breath of fresh air. Her delicate looks and husky voice defy her on-screen persona. But, Mreenal says she's reached this 'happy place' after a lot of twists and turn in personal as well as professional life.

"As a youngster, I was quite aimless in life. I used to pick up a project or hobby, do it for a while, accomplish it and then get bored of it, only to hop on to something else and get bored of it too in due course of time," Mreenal begins the dialogue. "I used to be a designer, then I took up candle making then painting, and finally, after a visit to Mumbai, I took up acting," says the Nagpur damsel.

Now seen as Uma Devi, the Maharani of Marwar, Maharana Pratap, Mreenal Deshraj kick-started her acting career with theatre veteran Nadira Babbar's play, Ekjute. Seven plays later, Mreenal bagged her first television role in Balaji Telefilms' Kahin Toh Hoga, as Shipra Arora, the negative lead. But, soon after Kahin Toh Hoga (Star Plus) and Choti Si Zindagi (Zee TV), Mreenal felt the need to flee from her life in Mumbai, in search of herself. "I just felt like abandoning everything and running off somewhere. So, I went to my sister in the US and stayed there for two years, helping her out with her paintings. I expressed to her that I didn't find true happiness in anything I did; that I was in need of an anchor that made me happy, truly happy from within. So, she told me that I should complete the project I've taken up to find happiness. That's when I decided to return to Mumbai and take up acting, again. Before I left for the US, I had done so many advertisements, plays, shows and what not, but there was no consistency in my body of work. After the US stint, I found myself in work; surrendered to my acting career and found true happiness."

And, what changed? "My perspective towards life. I've just stopped expecting anything from life or anyone, for that matter of fact. I'm very content with life right now. If things come my way, great; if they don't, great! Now I'm in such a happy place in my head that you can even abuse me and get away with it. Little things don't bother me anymore," says she.

About her experience on Maharana Pratap, Mreenal says, "The working hours and conditions are excruciating; we end up working for 14 to 15 hours a day, but it's an enjoyable process, every bit of it. I had to work very hard on my language; to get the diction right for shuddh Hindi and Sanskrit is no mean feat! I did not enjoy that process of learning in particular, because I honestly had no time to enjoy it. I just took it up as a challenge because the script required for me to speak a certain way and managed to pull it off!"

Ask her if she plans to look the Bollywood way and she says, "Not really. Bollywood involves too many social dos and too much of struggle without any assured returns. With TV, since I've established myself in the industry, I keep getting offers. The working hours are unreasonably long, the money is good. So, I don't mind sticking to just TV." Mreenal Deshraj was in Chandigarh for her sister's painting exhibit, Bouncing Brush by Shweta Art Studio, at Hotel Mountview on Sunday.

somya@tribunemail.com

Driven by faith
Mona

Writer, producer and actor Kuljinder Singh Sidhu is positive about his upcoming project, Yodha

As yet another Punjabi film, Yodha, gears up for release this month end, its writer, producer and lead actor, Kuljinder Singh Sidhu, is uncannily super confident. Picked up from real-life instances like the daylight shooting of a police man protecting the honour of his daughter in Amritsar and the drug racket gripping Punjab — Yodha is the story of a warrior who rises to avenge wrongdoers, with Rahul Dev essaying the role of the antagonist.

Kuljinder, who has been a part of Sadda Haq and Mini Punjab before this, has taken inspiration from Bollywood biggies. "My ideals are Aamir Khan, Shah Rukh Khan and Farhan Akhtar, who work hard to get into the skin of the character. I felt if we have to take Pollywood to the heights of its counterpart, we have to make extra efforts," says Kuljinder, who claims to have pumped iron in the gym for about eight months to be able to flaunt his six-pack abs. "Playing a warrior needed a certain kind of body. My workout was a judicious mix of gymming and Punjabi martial arts. Trust me, it was sheer hard work," he adds.

The film is realistic, with a fair dose of entertainment thrown in. "One has to dramatise real-life events to make them believable on screen. You will find our film to be an entertaining action-thriller."

The trailer, it seems, has garnered a good response and Kuljinder promises that the film would be better than the trailer, not the other way around. "Right from the poster to the casting to the filming - we have paid a lot of attention to detail," he says.

The film that been made at a budget of Rs 4 crore and is expected to hit the screens in more than 15 countries. "We have got queries from non-Punjabi film markets like Italy, Ireland, UAE, Austria and more," he shares.

Seemingly positive about the outcome of this venture, Kuljinder is busy selecting his next project, for which he is considering some of his own scripts and scriptwriters from Pollywood and Bollywood.

"Yodha gave me the chance to work and learn form established Bollywood actors like Rahul Dev and Girija Shankar. I am certain if we continue to work together at this pace, we will take Pollywood to heights that the Hindi film industry has achieved."

mona@tribunemail.com

Doc Talk
Festive skin care
Since the festival season is around the corner, here's some safe advisory on skin care
Dr Vikas Sharma

With the onset of the festival season, a lot of people resort to a variety of skin, hair and beauty treatments and cosmetic procedures in order to improve their looks. However, one needs to be fully aware of the beauty procedures before indulging in them, because sometimes the results can be disastrous, and one may actually invite a host of harmful side effects in the bargain.

Hair treatments

Be wary of hair-straightening treatments. During this procedure, formaldehyde is applied to the hair and flattened with a straight iron. Formaldehyde is an aggressive carcinogen, and its fumes are extremely dangerous, especially when heated. The FDA doesn't allow for stylists to use products containing more than 0.2% formaldehyde but many use formulas containing up to 7% of the noxious chemical. For safe treatment, carefully check the chemical levels in the product your technician is using. Keratin smoothing treatments can also lead to breathing problems and nosebleeds.

Hair highlighting and colouring can definitely bring a refreshing change in one's looks. However, getting it done repeatedly strips the hair cuticle of its moisture and makes the hair dry and brittle.

Long lashes

Long eyelashes are considered a sign of femininity in many cultures. Accordingly, some women seek to enhance their eyelash length artificially, using eyelash extensions. The negative effects of false eyelashes mimic the negative effects of hair extensions. If you're not an ideal candidate, they could damage or weaken your lashes, which may cause you to tug them out. Trauma to the eyelid or picking at lashes can destroy the hair follicle, resulting in fewer, thinner eyelashes or even permanent hair loss.

Face brightening

Chemical peels can brighten and lighten the facial skin to a dramatic effect and help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and age spots. But, some of these formulas are so powerful that they can cause burns and even scarring if handled incorrectly. And since they're being used more frequently these days, and in more casual settings (like spas rather than a dermatologist's office), the potential for danger is multiplied. Glycolic acid peels have to be neutralised after several minutes with a neutralising solution. If they're left on too long, they can burn the skin, leaving blisters, scabs and sometimes permanent redness.

Nail art

Many people who indulge in beauty treatments for their fingernails can develop severe skin and nail reactions. Common chemicals used in nail beauty treatments include acrylates and formaldehyde-based resins. Reactions to acrylic coatings on fingernails are a common cause of contact dermatitis. Always know the ingredients of products being used on you.

(Dr Vikas Sharma is a Chandigarh based dermatologist)

The ‘in’ side
Dapper denim
Sukhmani

Just like having the perfect pair of jeans, incorporating denim into your interiors can be just as stylish. Denim is a classic material in fashion and interior design, and has been a common thread seen throughout most runway shows over the past few years.

Due to its durability and affordable appeal, denim is a smart and an innovative material to use in interior design. It is also a favourite item of clothing, simply because it can be teamed up with any colour and pattern. From upholstery, pillows, draperies, bed comforters, picture frames, cushion covers, quilts, carpets and dining table covers, there is a whole range of options to indulge in with denim. You can dress denim up or dress it down; it always works. So whether your interior is for a children's room or your living room, denim may be just the fabric you are looking for. Introduce bold blue denim into your decor by pairing it with a contrasting colour, for instance, against a yellow wall, to make your space pop up. Denim doesn't have to be only blue. You can go for a sofa that is wrapped in charcoal grey denim, which is quite elegant. It is this quality of the fabric that has made it a wonder to work with as a concept in decor. Denim works well with pine and honey-coloured wood finishes.

Denim on walls looks unique, especially if the theme is a cowboy one for the boy's room, or if the girls love the outdoors and horses. However, you need not necessarily have a theme to put up the fabric on your walls. Denim fits in comfortably against walls of white, camel and yellow.

Since denim is a plain fabric, it takes well to dressing up with trims. You can mix and match trims for upholstery and curtains. Lighten up the look of denim with crisp whites, cotton pique and pastel polka dots.

If you don't wish to make much of an investment, go the DIY (Do It Yourself) way. Do you have a favorite pair of denims that you don't have the heart to give away? Well, now you won't have to. Reuse your old jeans and use them around your house. Here are a few tips.

Lampshade: If you're bored of your lampshade, just cut your denim into small pieces and stick them on the lampshade top. This way, you have a new lampshade in no time.

Cushion covers/quilts: Cut the fabric into small squares and stitch them together. You now have a funky patchwork denim cushion cover or quilt.

Multi-purpose holder: If you have a lot of jeans that aren't being used, this is probably the best thing to make. Snip the pockets off all the jeans and keep them aside. Cover a thick board with a fabric of your choice and stick the pockets on to the board with fabric glue. You could use this board as a pen-holder in your room or put it up in the kitchen to hold your cutlery.

Woven denim rug: Ready to get your weave on? Depending on your enthusiasm for the task, you can create a small, useful jean trivet or an impressively woven denim rug.

Denim pouf: Cover up an old pouf with patches of jean material and you have a masterpiece.

Outdoor furniture: The woven denim straps on a charpai (Indian string cot) and fold-up lawn chairs look amazingly stylish.

From indigo to the most-faded, sun bleached pale blue, there is an irresistible quality to the soft yet tough fabric. So use it in innovative ways in your décor and enjoy the compliments.

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

Star track
I am extremely proud of Shahid: Neelima Azeem

Good going: Shahid Kapoor

Shahid Kapoor's mother, Neelima Azeem, feels that his performance in Haider is his career's best. She got a chance to watch the film, a couple of days back and she was out of words to explain how much she loved him in the film. All she did was give Shahid a warm hug to express her feelings.

Haider, which is an adaptation of Shakespeare's Hamlet focuses on the relationship between a son and a mother.

When contacted, she said, "Shahid has carried the film on his shoulders as it is his story. With Haider, he has delved deep in the role and emerged as a multi layered actor. He is not Shahid Kapoor in even one scene. I am extremely proud of him not just as his mother but also as an actress."

Haider has opened to rave reviews, packed screens across the nation and also sparked many an article, conversation, and debate.

Old wine, new bottle

Fresh take: A still from the song

The hit song, Dholi Taro, from Salman Khan and Aishwarya Rai-starrer, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, still has a fan following. Turns out the same song will feature in Bobby Khan's upcoming film, Leela. What's more? This time it is apparently being shot with Sunny Leone who plays a princess in the film. If sources are to be believed, this song has now been sung by Tulsi Kumar and parts of it were shot against the backdrop of a desert in Rajasthan.

Wedded to work

Kay Kay had a hamstring injury while shooting for Haider in Kashmir and was advised a month's rest but he shot for Bombay Velvet in Sri Lanka for three months and did not follow the advice. He could not disrupt a film's schedule due to his injury.

A night to remember

Hollywood hunk George Clooney and his new wife Amal Alamudding partied all night after they got married last weekend. The couple, who exchanged their vows in Venice, Italy, partied the night away and showed their guests how to get their groove on, reported a magazine. "They were dancing all night long. George is a big dancer! It was crazy! He can really hold his own," DJ Sam Young said. Speaking about what type of music he played, he said, "Everything from Rappers Delight to Michael Jackson, Blondie to David Bowie - all the good classics." — PTI

For a wider reach

Mahesh Bhatt is all set to remake Telugu movie Maaya as a part of the Murder series. Filmmaker Neelakanta, who made the Telugu version, will also be directing the Hindi remake.

Head start

Sajid Khan is writing a new film with Akarsh Khurana and Hussain Dalal of Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani fame. He will approach actors once his script is locked. He has put Humshakals behind.

Holiday calling

Rani Mukerji and Aditya Chopra have gone on a detox holiday to Europe for fifteen days and they have also signed up for a weight-loss programme.

When love hurts

Katrina Kaif burnt her thumb while lighting candles on beau Ranbir Kapoor's birthday cake. She has bandaged her thumb and had no qualms sharing the reason behind it with the media. That's surprising!

Jennifer cheers for Chris

Oscar winner Jennifer Lawrence watched her rumoured boyfriend Chris Martin at the Kings of Leon concert in California.

The 24-year-old Hunger Games star watched the Coldplay front man perform two songs at the gig, held at the Hollywood Bowl in California, as he supported the rock band at the Budweiser Made In America Festival, reported a website. "Jen was taking photos and videos of Chris during rehearsals on her phone. They engaged playfully with each other, appearing like a couple in love. She kissed him on the lips," a source said. This isn't the first time Jennifer has supported the singer as she was spotted watching the hunk at the iHeartRadio Music Festival in Las Vegas last month. — PTI

Chatter box
New innings

Homeland fans pull up your socks and get ready for Season 4! The American political thriller is back with its fourth season and it promises a "tyranny of secrets". Clearly, there will be no shortage of mystery and intrigue in the next season of the show, which will air on October 6 with back-to-back episodes. Starting from 6 October, catch all new episodes of Homeland at 9 pm on Star World Premier HD.

Up for some lessons on comedy?

After exploring crime, thriller, domestic violence through its shows, Life OK is ready to tap the genre, which its EVP, Thakur believes is not much explored in India - comedy. Titled Comedy Classes, and produced by Optimystix, the show is a sitcom about an acting school called 'Ache Din Institute' with a crazy bunch of teachers and students. The class consists of teachers like Krushna, a flirtatious and artful acting coach, who is a struggling actor and does odd jobs for living. Bharti plays the dance instructor, whose contemporaries, include Saroj Khan and Farah Khan. She has invented her own moves and grooves like Bharti-Natyamand Gambra (a mix of garba and bhangra). The 'Kanjus' but romantic old music master Sudesh, who never misses a chance to mix two songs to create his 'original' compositions and the inimitable Urdu expert from Pakistan, Shakeel Siddiqui, who can speak no more than seven sentences in Urdu. The show will air five days a week at 10 pm from 7 October.

On a romantic note

Director Kunal Kohli, who is all set to make his acting debut with the up and coming film, Phir Se, will romance television actress, Jennifer Winget, who was last seen in Saraswatichandra. The romantic drama film is expected to go on floors this November. It will be set in London.

Good news ahead!

Kanica Maheshwari, who had tied the knot with Delhi-based businessperson, Ankur Ghai, in 2012, is expecting her first baby in April. However, she says that she has no plans of quitting her show Diya Aur Baati Hum. Kanica, who plays the role of Meenakshi in the show, says that her co-stars are taking special care of her. Also, her husband has moved to Mumbai to be with her. Moreover, to accommodate her pregnancy in the show, the makers are planning to show her character pregnant again.

Filmy way

Upasana Singh of Comedy Nights With Kapil, will soon be seen in Shashi Ranjan's upcoming romantic comedy that will chronicle the journey of a couple, from their engagement to marriage. The film will also star Rishi Kapoor, Satish Kaushik, Himani Shivpuri, Kitu Gidwani and Parmeet Sethi.

Getting her priorities right

Bollywood actress Sonali Bendre recently made her acting debut on television with a fictional series titled Ajeeb Daastaan Hain Ye. She talks about the show and her role.

What made you accept this show?

Honestly, I never thought I would do a TV show, but here I am! I just couldn't say 'no' to the character. This show means a lot to me. Another reason for doing this show is that it's a finite show, so our episodes are fixed.

Tell us about your character.

I play Shobha, who has always been a housewife and for her to step outside is a huge deal. I remember my mother used to tell my sisters and me that we have to be independent and enter any relationship as independent individuals, so we can stand for ourselves. This show reminds me of that.

Working in a television show means shooting for long hours. How are you managing?

I have given a certain amount of time to Balaji production house, so they will have to finish the shoot within stipulated time. I'm not being difficult, but I leave my son at home and come to the sets. So, after the shooting time is over, it will always be my son's time. I've no doubt about my priorities.

How has the experience shooting for the show been?

I am loving it! I am really glad that I took up this show.

How is it working with Apurva Agnihotri?

He is amazing and very professional. I think he is looking great in the show too!

TRENDSETTER
Fashion forward

A fusion of trends from the East and West is what constitutes the sense of fashion today as ethnic wear too makes its presence felt in the global arena. Those studying fashion can surely predict trends which know no barriers and Armeen a student of fashion designing at INIFD is well aware of it.

Your sense of style…

The real art of carrying off the latest trends along with exuding a sense of comfort is style for me

What is the one thing you treasure in your belongings…

A pair of heels in green colour from Ronney Gray

Your style icon

Has to be Sonam Kapoor

And the worst dressed

Everybody is coming up to the mark these days so....

Brand freak or street picks?

A judicious balance of both

Sporty, chic or glamorous?

Chic and glam. Both!

Your take on accessories…

Neck pieces are quite in vogue and I like wearing them with any attire

What is the one fashion trend you would not like to follow…

Wearing capris is not my cup of tea

If given the choice who would be your designer?

Payal Singhania

When do you feel very confident of yourself?

When I am dressed appropriately from top to toe, I feel naturally confident.

— As told to Poonam Bindra

Pet passion
True companion
Poonam Bindra

Two’s company: Anayat with Snoopy

Snoopy was brought into the family after a detailed Google research as the family were looking for a comfortable doggy who would be hassle free and feel happy in the space their flat offered. They found this breed known as Shi'tzu that was Chinese and a cross between a Lhasa Apso and a Pekinese. They are mostly the favourites of Lamas. Snoopy was brought in the family to please 16-year-old Anayat, who was missing her previous pet (a Persian cat) in their earlier posting in Nigeria.

Snoopy was located with a family in Ambala who were ready to part with a part of the litter. "He is a sweetheart and naturally smart being from the same town as Priyanka Chopra," quips Anaya. Touche!

Though perfectly toilet trained, this is little brat is little stubborn too. "He does not like to obey commands like sit, shake hands, get out etc for he considers the whole house his domain and Anayat's room exclusively his property," informs the mom Apinder. Gentle to the core which includes minimal barking this Sh'tzu is very popular in the neighbourhood. So much so that he has sometimes sauntered quietly into the lift and gone down for a stroll all by himself in the grounds of the building only to be brought back after a frantic search.

To maintain his good looks Snoopy's lovely mane is cleaned well and conditioned and once it is a trip to the Dog spa where he gets his nails clipped and ears cleaned thoroughly and as Apinder tells us, "Snoopy is tense when he gets his nails groomed." A comfortable eater, this little fellow loves his chappati with malai and the special treat for him is boiled eggs and chicken curry. No dog food for him! "I think he feels one with the family so also wants to eat what we eat especially the children." Snoopy the smartly groomed Sh'tzu looks on so knowingly that we are talking of him that we become sure of his intelligence quotient too!

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: New business deals offered to you are worth considering. If married, plan a romantic evening with your spouse. You may find yourself misunderstood and isolated.

Tarot message: Don't allow others to interfere in your way.

Lucky colour: Lotus pink

Magic Number: 27

TAURUS: Business and work opportunities are plenty. Take one step at a time to climb up the ladder of success. You have to make an important effort to resolve family issues.

Tarot message: Business problems must be solved immediately.

Lucky colour: Black

Magic Number: 59

GEMINI: You could have many public rivals. Focus on routine work and maintain a low profile. Overseas contracts are lucrative. An important project is likely to encounter hurdles.

Tarot message: Pursue your goals without a thought of disapproval.

Lucky colour: Green

Magic Number: 26

CANCER: Poetry and literary gatherings hold your interest today. If you are fighting a legal battle, you win after a slight delay. An array of mixed feelings overwhelms you today.

Tarot message: Your determination to succeed will pay dividends.

Lucky colour: Blue

Magic Number: 48

LEO: Participation in a charitable activity is indicated. The share market yields good profits after the recent uncertain phase. Tune in to your favourite music and unwind with loved ones. Tarot message: Don't allow others to interfere in business or personal partnership.

Lucky colour: Peach

Magic Number: 45

VIRGO: Finances need urgent sorting out today and save wisely for a secure future. A happy event celebrated at home is enjoyable and keeps you on your toes. A father figure comes to your aid.

Tarot message: Lack of caution can leave you in losses.

Lucky colour: White

Magic Number: 25

LIBRA: Thoughts of giving up midway are high. So weigh the pros and cons wisely. Be extra careful if you are signing any paper work as there could be more to the situation than meets the eye.

Tarot message: Focus on your goals.

Lucky colour: Red

Magic Number: 50

SCORPIO: There could be new career opportunities due to your past efforts. Spending quality time with your partner will be a priority for you. There could be good news regarding a family member.

Tarot message: Try to be quick while catching financial opportunities.

Lucky colour: Grey

Magic Number: 58

SAGITTARIUS: Mediation takes you deeper within. Health and physical energy is good, but you need to take frequent breaks and watch out your diet and fitness routine.

Tarot message: Leave things open ended for best results.

Lucky colour: Magenta

Magic Number: 51

CAPRICORN: You will receive appreciation for your ideas from colleagues. Monetary gains are indicated. You need to be focused and prepared to handle last minute changes.

Tarot message: Do not read too much into ordinary situations.

Lucky colour: Yellow

Magic Number: 34

AQUARIUS: A trip to a distant place is on the cards. Your past efforts will start to show results. You may be unable to make up your mind about an important decision.

Tarot message: Feel free to change your mind.

Lucky colour: Forest green

Magic Number: 39

PISCES: You will be in a cheerful frame of mind. Going out of your way to help colleagues or loved ones will earn you good will and appreciation. Spend time with loved ones.

Tarot message: You concentrate on projects with reliable outcomes.

Lucky colour: Pink

Magic Number: 57

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is October 6...

Do not waste your time in criticising others, as it may affect your health. You will make good money, but try not to let it slip through your fingers. Those seeking emotional reassurances may find their elders coming to their aid. You are going to make your life worthy by giving pleasure and forgiving past mistakes. Resist the urge to buy an extravagant gift for a youngster. You'll wish to comment on a co-worker's attitude; avoid. Try not to say something you could regret. Family can help deliver good luck and pleasant surprises to your doorstep. You may be called upon to fix a number of things, especially when you are good at it.

Positive colours: White, sea green, cream, light blue and rose

Select days: Friday, Thursday and Tuesday

Favourable numbers: 5 and 6

Gems recommended: Diamond and Emerald

Charity on birthday: Donate milk or milk products at any religious place/langar/community kitchen. 

Mona Singh [October 6, 1980], who played the central role in serial Jassi Jaisi Koi Nahi. She appeared in a supporting role in Three Idiots, directed by Rajkumar Hirani. As anchor and artiste, Mona will continue to charm the viewers on small as well as the big screen due to her strong position of Saturn.