A meaningful dialogue
Atul Tewari, writer of films such as Mission Kashmir, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose: The Forgotten Hero and Vishwaroopam, believes people get the cinema they deserve
Nonika Singh

The discerning movie buff might remember him as the chief guest who becomes the butt of ridicule in the famous infamous speech delivered by Chatur Ramlingam in the super-hit 3 Idiots. The equally alert viewer might be able to spot him once again in PK with which too his association is as important or as insignificant.

While screenplay and dialogue writer Atul Tewari might be a reluctant actor he is certainly not a reluctant writer or a speaker for that matter. During a master class at IFFI, Goa on the art of screenplay writing, he holds the audience engaged as much with his deep knowledge of the subject as with ability to punctuate it with a sense of humour.

In an exclusive tête-à-tête too, he parries a volley of questions and unafraid to speak out his mind. So, in times when scripts are becoming meaningless, does he feel the role of script writers too is being undermined? He says, “If people get the government they deserve, the same is true for cinema too. After all, for Shah Rukh Khan’s films, viewers are not descending from another planet. You and I are watching his films.” Sure film industry is star driven, certainly at times writers have to fall in line. But fortunately he reminds, “Today, we have amidst us a whole bunch of directors like Sudhir Mishra, Anurag Kashyap and Vikramditya Motwane who make their own rules.”

And while rules for screenplay writing can be dispensed away with, he asserts that some basic principles like theme, plot, characters, diction, music and spectacle have to be followed. Research too is crucial even if it’s a film like Mission Kashmir which he insists is not a political film but a story of father and son and their tumultuous relationship. Talking of themes, in a country where feathers are easily ruffled, just as his Viswharoopam managed to rattle quite a few, does a writer have to be acutely conscious of mindful of not stepping on others’ toes?

First and foremost, he says, “It’s not people who protest. It’s those with vested interests who sometimes take matter in their hands. So, they object to a Jodha Akbar if it doesn’t suit them or to a Shabana Azmi film simply because she attended a party hosted by Pakistan High Commission.”

But whatever may be the power of these extraneous forces he is not easily cowed down. So, even at a film festival organised by the government he has the gumption to read out a song that could bar the doors of IFFI on him forever. Yes, the might of pen might not bow down before powers that may be but it is yet to find its due regard and reward in the film industry. He rues, “In a country where there are fixed wages for everything, there are none for the writer.” But they have formed a writer’s association pressing for better remuneration in future. In times to come progression from writing to direction would be natural too. Only he is already a director and has directed a historical play and would love to see it as a film too. But he is in no tearing hurry to be a film director. For, if screenplay writing has to follow a graph, so does life, in which too nothing can be pre-empted.

Working partners
As often Atul Tewari has teamed up with other writers we wonder—isn’t writing a solitary exercise? He reasons, “It all depends on the chemistry. Salim Javed delivered some great quality scripts. Me and Shama Zaidi’s partnership works very well. But it’s not easy to arrive at a working relationship. As they say if two people agree on everything one is disposable, if they fight on everything both are disposable. So, a balance has to be struck and we have learnt to find it.”

Aristotle’s theory
While Atul Tewari increasingly refers to Aristotle to dwell upon the five basic principles of screenplay writing, he is equally inspired by the Sanskrit tradition of theatre. Kalidas and Bhasa in particular have impacted him greatly.

nonika@tribunemail.com

Two for joy
The tried and tested formula of double role enters Pollywood as Neeru Bajwa plays a simpleton Jeet and bubbly Preet in the upcoming film, Proper Patola
Mona

Neeru Bajwa, Harish Verma, Yuvraj Hans—the trio is a rocking team. At least, that’s the first impression, when we see them sharing the stage in Chandigarh on Thursday.

On the eve of the release of their film Proper Patola, the trio is relaxed, looking forward to the BO response and more than happy to share the making of this Punjabi flick that has reigning queen of Pollywood in a double role.

Twin treat

Neeru Bajwa, who plays Jeet and Preet in the film, didn’t take long to say yes when the script was read out to her. “Whenever I am offered a script, I listen from a movie goer’s point of view. It didn’t offer me much screen time but I loved the story,” she shares. While playing Preet, who is quiet and a simpleton, came easy, Jeet who is an opposite was quite a challenge. “Jeet is this bubbly person who speaks her mind and I personally love loud girls who stand for their rights,” sums up the leading actress. About the boys, she admits that Harish gave her more trouble out of the two but also as she changed from one get-up to another, both her co-stars and the whole crew behaved well.

Someone asks if the rumours of her undergoing the knife are true and Neeru plays safe, “I haven’t heard any and in any case I work non- stop I don’t even have the luxury of recovering form a surgery,” and about her leaner looks she says it is diet control.

With love

The boys are happy to come together for a third time. And, staunchly they support the script. “The script was written with Bollywood in mind, so you see it has a certain standard,” reveals Harish. “It’s a romantic comedy, made with lots of love,” adds Yuvraj Hans, who has sung two songs in the film.

Name game

The name of the film stirs a controversy as why call a sohni sunukhi kudi patola (a piece of cloth). But the actors defend, “It is a sweet word and adding ‘proper’ makes it so modern. It sound so good, say Proper Patola,” urges Harish. Those who not convinced are left un-convinced and the conversation steers towards the Punjabi film industry that is giving flop after flop. The actors agree that those in real estate are using money to churn out bogus entrees.

“I believe a producer should have the passion for the process rather than aiming at minting money. Yes, some made lots of money, there are others whose films were a hit and yet went around saying, ‘Assin taan film di chah bhi ni peeti’.” As for self, he makes sure that the script is strong before signing a project. “The execution lies totally in the filmmaker’s hand, I make a choice based on what I see in a story,” says Harish.

Fun, yet meaningful
Ram Aur Shyam, Seeta Aur Geeta, Chaalbaaz, protagonist in double role has been a hit formula in Hindi cinema. How is it different in Punjabi one? “Those were basically revenge dramas, ours is a love story and confusion that leads to chaos and how the two pairs bring their parents around for the biggest decision of their life,” says Yuvraj Hans. “The film also has a message never to rebel against the elderly and take parents along in the journey of life,” he signs off. If you are a Neeru Bajwa fan catch her in double role in Proper Patola in the nearest screen…

mona@tribunemail.com

Image makeover
Kuljinder Sidhu’s fans maybe irked by the actor’s brand-new looks, but then an actor has to do what an actor has to do—experiment
Jasmine Singh

He springs a pleasant surprise with his long locks, jazzy sunglasses hiding his piercing eyes, a pair of trousers and a waist coat. It takes a second to recognise Punjabi actor Kuljinder Sidhu who shot to fame with Sadda Haq and Yoddha. The actor now is in the news with his all-new contemporary look. Even though he received oodles of brickbats from his fans for moving on to a new look, Kuljinder feels it is absolutely necessary for an actor to experiment.

Kuljinder was looked up as role model by many youngsters after his film Sadda Haq. But he suddenly came under scanner for letting his hair down in the film Yoddha. For anyone else, it could be nothing more than a case of some crazy fans going bonkers, but Kuljinder takes it very seriously. “I respect the sentiments of my fans and the audience. I understand that they could relate to my looks and my character in my previous film Sadda Haq, but as an actor, I feel it is important to break stereotypes.” Fans have detested his new look, some have even gone to the extent of asking him why he is not always seen with a turban. “I got perturbed, in fact, for a long time. Later, I though I was more than a character, and like all other actors I have the right to change my looks,” he adds removing his glasses and allowing us to look into his eyes, in case they stand to some validation!

Kuljinder, who along with his partner Dinesh Sood, is successfully running his company OXL Productions that produces films and also supports new actors, is now gearing up for his innings in Bollywood and cinema down South. “I already have an offer for a big-banner Telugu film and another one in Bollywood, let’s see how it works.” Kuljinder, whose six-packs have inspired many other actors in Pollywood, is all trying different genres but as far as Punjabi cinema is concerned, “this is something I want always to be connected with. Punjab is a storehouse of stories and if we get really professional we can raise the bar of our films,” says the actor stopping to mention that he has now seen the good and bad of the industry. “The idea is to take it in my stride and keep moving.” With the new look? “Let’s see how it goes, I would want to mention that I have received umpteen compliments for my new look,” he says, trying to smile. “I am a fighter who never quits the battlefield,” he adds, “like a true yoddha.”

Time to watch out
Gurvinder Singh

Another lifestyle label that makes an entry in the market this April, is already creating a hype in Ludhiana.

Gaurav Mehta from Jaipur has been passionate about collecting antique coins and is obsessed with watches. So, he combined both his passions to create products that have the regal antiquity and contemporary styling. The result, watches having age-old coins that form the dials and the brand becomes Jaipur Watch Company.

These are designs that combine a great heritage value and modern time on the same page. Most of the coins are from the period of 1839 to 1849 having the pictures of King George VI and more. Sapphire glasses are used to create nice-looking pieces. These are presented in the old-style box.

Mehta, who was in Ludhiana for an exhibition also displayed post cards from the pre-Independent time and coins to seal the date with history. "I conceputalise all the designs and make sure that every piece has its own unique voice," says Gaurav. Then he pulls out a watch that seems to be right out of history. The coin in front 'clicks' open to reveal the handheld watch behind. To top its antique 'feel', the watch is mechanical one that is wound periodically to keep up with the modern times.

Showing the watch, Gaurav smiles, for his effort of marrying antiquity with modernity have created pieces that spell class.

Shop for a cause

The exhibition, Glitz n Glamour, is all for a cause. Albasir from Kashmir, known for his exquisite ethnic karigari works on Pashmina shawls, would be participating in the exhibition. He will be putting up five of his exotic shawls for auction, of which the profits would go to the Kashmir Funds for Rehabilitation of Kashmiris.

Designer Elmour from Kolkata will bring in an exclusive range of sarees and ethnic wear.

Famous Raa Designs by Manish Ahuja (Lakme Fashion Week participant) is coming after a long time to Chandigarh with his classy yet chic thread embroidered dresses in black and white.

Accessories comprising hand bags, foot-wear, belts, phone covers, scraves, shades, watches will be on display. Ravoy gems is bringing an exclusive range of diamond jewellery, suiting everyone’s pocket and style.

At Taj-Chandigarh on November 29 and 30

Master Chef
A punch of pep!
Kandla Nijhowne

A handful of nuts is good for you. Honey has high nutritional benefits. Oats is a great way to start the day. Almonds energize and strengthen the system. How about inviting them all together and preparing a punch of pep?

Granola bars are quick and easy to bake and oh so practical to carry almost anywhere. Hiking, picnicking, road trips or even when you have hunger pangs at home, these chewy, crunchy bars will be a blessing to have around. Promise you they are tastier than the shop-bought ones. Wrap them individually in foil for easy access.

Ingredients
1½ cup oats
1½ puffed rice
1 cup raisins
½ cup sesame seeds (white til)
½ cup melon seeds (magaz)
½ cup almonds
½ cup honey
1/3 cup vegetable oil or butter

Method

  • Use a wide, large bowl, tip in the oats, puffed rice, raisins, almonds, sesame seeds and melon seeds.
  • Set the oven on pre heat at 180 degrees C.
  • Line a flat tray with foil, then grease it lightly with butter.
  • Pour the honey and oil (or butter) in to a saucepan. Boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
  • Remove from heat. Let stand for 4-5 minutes.
  • Pour over the cereal mixture, stirring to coat evenly.
  • Pour out on to the ready-lined tray, scraping off the residual gooey goodness with a rubber spatula.
  • Press firmly with back of spoon or greased spatula, then bake until golden brown, about 20 minutes.
  • Let cool completely in the pan, then cut into bars.

Note
There are countless options of ingredients you can add to granola bars. Shredded coconut (not desiccated), currants, chopped dried apricots, cranberries or figs. If you choose to add any of them, I suggest you eliminate some of the ones in the recipe. It could become too fussy a flavour if you have too many components.

(Nijhowne is a Chandigarh-based culinary expert)

The Foodies
Regional touch
Poonam Bindra

With our cuisine going global in all its mouthwatering variations, Tannur at Hyatt Regency-Ludhiana comes out to be a refreshing change with its typically ethnic Indian fare from all states.

A guest can enjoy the Macher Jhol (fish with potatoes) from West Bengal or the Ghosth Reezala (tender lamb cooked with cashew nut gravy) from Andhra Pradesh or the typical Southern specialties. It is interesting to note that our familiar tandoor is a derivative of the Persian word Tannur. “With dishes ranging from North to South and East to West, our menu becomes very comprehensive, yet we try to maintain the authentic flavours of the regions,” says the executive chef Ravi Kumar. The ambience exudes warmth with its colour scheme of charcoal and red and with the highlight decoration of inverted umbrellas it becomes the ideal setting for a private meal which quite differs from the hustle-bustle of the buffet area.

“We wanted an exclusive family get- together with a sit down meal so this is just right for us” quips industrialist Jaswant Singh as they occupy the sixteen- seater area and orders a variety of Indian specialties like the Gatta Curry, Peshwari Tikki and of course not to miss the Dal-e–Tannur accompanied by all types of breads straight from the tandoor .

The current attraction is the ongoing Kashmiri festival which takes one through the journey of Wazwaan with its specific non-veg offerings starting from the Yakhni to the Tangri Kebab (marinated and flavoured with saffron) the Atta Chicken and the ever famous Gushtaba with its pounded meat.

Lotus stem (nadru) is a root vegetable which is a popular ingredient in the Kashmiri cuisine. Die-hard vegetarians Kunal and Natasha Jain can not stop raving about the succulent Nadru ke Kebab, the Lehsuni Malai Palak and Paneer-e- Saffron. The accompanying bread is a Naan laced with dry fuit and called Kidha Prantha. The sweet of course has to be laced with saffron so it is Kesar Phirni which is the favourite in the dessert section.

star track
Quite a bookworm

Shraddha Kapoor Shraddha Kapoor wants to read biographies on interesting cinema personalities. The young actress wants to read biographies of the likes of Raj Kapoor and Guru Dutt who have had interesting journeys. She feels that she can learn a lot from them as they are very inspiring. Not many people know that Shraddha is an ardent reader and reads very often. Off late her interest has developed towards reading up on the lives of interesting cinema personalities. This enlightens her on what cinema was some decades back and how the experiences today are similar yet different.


Reading material:
Shraddha Kapoor

Films first, theatre can wait

Huma Qureshi
Greedy girl: Huma Qureshi

Huma Qureshi was actively into theatre before she came into the industry. The talented actor worked with many theatre groups in Delhi. She started performing with Act 1 Theatre Group and was working with various other groups before she made her debut in Bollywood with Gangs of Wasseypur. She has made inroads into the industry on her own. She has given different performances and has not been afraid of experimenting.

However, like her seniors Naseerudin Shah, Irrfan Khan she does not plan to go back to theatre. Huma says, “Yes, I miss theatre. Theatre is an actor’s medium. Also while performing a scene one instantly gets a response from the audience. So it’s almost like give and take. However, I think my love for cinema is fast growing. Films have such a vast reach, people can see my work from different parts of the world, who I’ll probably never meet in my whole life. But through films I am able to reach them. So I guess in that sense I’ve become greedier. I want more and more.”

Sidharth’s new passion

Sidharth Malhotra, who has learnt mixed martial arts for his next film Brothers, plans to practice it as a fitness regime even when the film gets over. The young actor has learnt mixed martial arts, which is like a full-contact combat sport that allows the use of both striking and grappling techniques.

Sidharth shares, “Mixed martial arts is an intense and fast paced regime which conditions your full body. I have learnt it for my film and want to continue practicing it as my regular fitness regime.” Unlike most stars who resort to steroids to pump themselves up, Sidharth is hell bent on keeping things natural. Adhering strongly to a strict dietary regime, he is banking massively on weight lifting and martial arts to get the chiseled physique desired for the film and he has already put on 8 kilos of muscle weight for the film.

Another year to go

If the latest rumours are anything to go by, Bollywood star Ranbir Kapoor has been given 2016 as the deadline by his parents to get married. So Katrina Kaif can wait another year. Meanwhile, Ranbir and former flame Deepika Padukone are shooting together in freezing Shimla for Tamasha.

Fixing the two left feet

Imran Khan is not a great dancer but now he has hired a trainer to improve his moves for his upcoming film Katti Batti. He rehearses before shooting the song. We think that’s cool!

Neil Nitin Mukesh One for the rickshaw ride

Neil Nitin Mukesh has shifted from South Mumbai to the suburbs because that’s where Bollywood happens. He travels by rickshaw everywhere instead of taking his car because it saves time and he finds rickshaw rides fun.


Time management:
Neil Nitin Mukesh

Trouble in paradise?

Actress Angelina Jolie was spotted smoking a cigarette on a hotel balcony reportedly after she and her husband Brad Pitt engaged in a heated argument. According to a weekly magazine, the 39-year-old, who has undergone a double mastectomy as a preventative measure against cancer, was caught with a cigarette in hand, reports a website.

The newly-weds were standing on a terrace of the InterContinental Hotel, as Pitt was seen gesturing with his hands before walking away. According to an eye witness: “When Brad threw up his arms, you could see the frustration on his face. He was clearly exasperated with her. They kept talking over each other and putting their hands up in anger. They were upset but getting nowhere. Angie looked like she was on the verge of tears.” — IANS

When awards don’t matter

Kangna Ranaut has stated that she is not interested in picking up any award for her performance in Queen and Revolver Rani. She doesn’t believe in awards and finds them silly. We guess she is going the Aamir Khan way!

Getting to know Tahir Bhasin

Tahir Bhasin, who played the charismatic villain Walt in Mardaani, talks about his journey into the movies, Rani Mukerji and Aditya Chopra.

Tahir Bhasin
Meeting point: Tahir Bhasin

Something different

We knew we were doing something different with Mardaani and that there was going to be a certain amount of shock value to my character.

But this level of critical acclaim wasn’t expected. In the wake of so much acclaim, I have signed my second film, which is Kushan Nandy’s (Pritish Nandy’s son) Babumoshai Bandookbaaz alongside Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Chitrangda Singh.

Acting bug

I have a master’s degree in media from Australia and I was going to do an MBA. Instead, I broke the news to my family that I wanted to be an actor. My parents were shocked and skeptical since we had no connection with films. I moved to Mumbai in 2010 and joined a full-time acting institute.

On Shanoo Sharma and Mardaani

My dreams took off when I met Shanoo Sharma, the casting head of Yash Raj Films at a social do. I used to carry a bag everywhere I’d go. It had all my photos, a make-up kit and clothes. Just in case I had to give an audition last minute. I pulled out a few photos and showed them to Shanoo. She looked at them and said, ‘Theek hai, I don’t see anything out of the ordinary’. I told her I didn’t have the conventional look, but I could act. I was called for a screen test for a YRF serial, Powder. After a few days Shanoo texted me saying, ‘You were right, you can act’.” Two years later, I was called to audition for Mardaani. The five rounds of auditions of Mardaani were my toughest. After the final screen test they said they would let me know the next day. But I didn’t hear from them so I broke down. Two days later I saw a missed call from Shanoo. When I called her back she said, ‘Why didn’t you answer my call Walt?’ She called me by my character’s name in Mardaani as she broke the good news that I was selected. That day I cried again.

On Rani Mukherji

I remember saying to myself that I’ve got to be strong enough to intimidate her character on screen. I was in awe when she delivered a two-page scene. I was touched by Rani’s warmth and friendliness. She’d come up to me and say well done even if she wasn’t involved in the scene.

The invisible Aditya Chopra

I met him before the shoot started where he said that he liked my screen test. Then I met him after the film wrapped up. I asked him what he thought of my work and he said it was a great job.

chatter box
Jail for Veena Malik and husband?

Controversy queen Veena Malik has caught herself in yet another storm. She, alongVeena Malik with husband Asad Bashir Khan with the owner of Pakistan's biggest media group, Geo TV, and her actor husband Asad Bashir Khan, has been sentenced to 26 years in prison by an anti-terrorism court for allegedly airing a blasphemous programme. Mir Shakil-ur-Rahman, owner of Geo TV and Jang group, was accused of allowing the airing of a blasphemous programme by Geo television in May, which played a religious song as a backdrop to Malik and Khan's mock marriage.

Many believe that the order is unlikely to be implemented because the said region is not considered a full-fledged province by Pakistan and verdicts by its courts do not apply to the rest of the country. Meanwhile, buzz is that the four people named are all out of Pakistan at the moment. Rahman resides in the UAE and the other three also went abroad after recieving threats by militant organisations. It is not known when the arrests would be carried out.
Risky freedom: Veena Malik with husband Asad Bashir Khan

Doppelganger on the streets

While television actor Gautam Gulati is currently making headlines for his antics inside the Bigg Boss house, he is also seen on the streets of Delhi. Wondering how that’s possible? Gautam has an elder brother, Mohit who looks just like him! Mohit, who is based in Delhi, often gets stopped by people on the streets, as they confuse him for his brother Gautam. We hope they say nice things!

Rannvijay, the busy bee

Rannvijay Singh Actor Rannvijay Singh is one busy man. Apparently, he was approached to host the upcoming season of India's Got Talent, but he had to turn down the offer because of his busy schedule. Singh, who is currently seen in Pukaar: Call for the Hero, has no time as he is doing MTV Roadies auditions. He is also a part of the Box Cricket League. We say, work is worship!


Short on time: Rannvijay Singh

Girl power on CID

Tanya Abrol The feisty and talented Tanya Abrol will soon be seen in a new avatar, as she joins the brave CID team in their investigations. Tanya will play the character of Jaywanti Shinde, a bold, fearless and gutsy woman. Not one to mince her words, she is straightforward and always ready to take up new challenges. Not just that, she is forever curious about new things and hence is always ready with a volley of questions. Though she respects everyone who respects her, she will break the bones of people who show disrespect towards her or any of her loved ones. A Daya fan, Jaywanti admires him a lot and looks up to him.

Miss Feisty: Tanya Abrol

Up for a challenge!

Siddharth Nigam Child artiste Siddharth Nigam — young Rudra of upcoming show Mahakumbh — is God gifted. When Siddharth was asked to do an underwater sequence for the show, the actor was having second thoughts, because he did not know how to swim. But, Siddharth decided to learn swimming the very moment. To everyone’s surprise, the little boy opted to practice swimming tricks in river Ganga. Surprisingly, he learned swimming in four days and performed the sequence with much perfection!
Brave heart: Siddharth Nigam

New releases

Zid
Producer: Anubhav Sinha, Mushtaq Sheikh
Director: Vivek Agnihotri

Benaras Mediaworks’ musical thriller Zid, starring debutant Mannara (Priyanka Chopra’s cousin) and Karanvir Sharma will hit the theatres this Friday. The film also stars Shradha Das in a pivotal role. The buzz is that Zid promises to spook the socks off audiences. It will take viewers through the dark side of the party capital of the country. It is an erotic thriller that will leave viewers at the edge of their seat.

Zed Plus
Producer: Mandira Kashyap, Mukund Purohit
Director: Dr Chandraprakash Dwivedi

Dr Chandraprakash Dwivedi’s keenly awaited socio-political satire featuring Adil Hussain and Mona Singh also releases this week. It is a humorous take on the dance of democracy from the viewpoint of a common man. Sanjay Mishra, Mukesh Tiwari, Shivani Tanksale, Ekavali Khanna, Kulbhushan Kharbanda, KK Raina and Dr Anil Rastogi are in supporting roles. Set in a small town of Rajasthan, Zed Plus promises something different.

Ungli
Producer: Karan Johar
Director: Rensil D’Silva

The Sanjay Dutt, Emraan Hashmi starrer Ungli, helmed by Rensil D’Silva is finally slated to release this Friday. Said to be a social drama, Ungli also stars Kangana Ranaut, Neha Dhupia, Randeep Hooda, Neil Bhoopalan and Angad Bedi. Dharma Productions’Ungli is a sleek, edgy, vigilante drama. This one is an interesting take on day-to-day problems faced by a common man and how a group of friends deal with them. With this film, Emraan Hashmi and Kangana Ranaut bring back passionate romance with the song Pakeezah.

The Penguins of Madagascar
Producer: Mark Swift, Lara Breay, Tripp Hudson
Director: Eric Darnell, Simon J Smith

This animated, adventure action-comedy in 3D and IMAX format hit the silver screens today. Benedict Cumberbatch best known for playing the lead role in Sherlock Holmes, explores the fun side of a spy-thriller with The Penguins of Madagascar, by lending his voice for the role of Agent Classified. The buzz is that it is a spin off the much-loved superhit, Madagascar film series. The film also stars John Malkovich, Tom McGrath, Chris Miller, Conrad Vernon, Christopher Knights and Ken Jeong. — Dharam Pal

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: You can achieve quite a lot once you get going. Never trust a stranger. Socially, you may have some problems with a loved one; however, it would not be too serious. Tarot message: Be creative if you want to retain your grip over business. Lucky colour: Fuchsia Magic number: 60

TAURUS: Work will progress smoothly. You will be in the mood to socialise and meet new people while widening your social circle. Your hectic schedule may leave you feeling tired. Tarot message: Arrogance and pride will not be rewarded. Lucky colour: Violet Magic number: 27

GEMINI: Be extra careful if you are signing any paper work, as there could be more to the situation than meets the eye. There could be new career opportunities due to your past efforts. Tarot message: Do not try to end all the deadlocks in one go. Lucky colour: Metallic grey Magic number: 39

CANCER: Health and physical energy is good, but you need to take frequent breaks and watch your diet and fitness routine. Travel plans for business or pleasure are possible. Tarot message: Delays are the only obstacle in your way to success. Lucky colour: Deep red Magic number: 40

LEO: If there are important meetings today, you need to be focused and prepared as seniors and business associates will take note of your ability to handle last-minute changes. Tarot message: Act righteously and do your duty on time. Lucky colour: Navy blue Magic number: 61

VIRGO: You may be unable to make up your mind about an important decision; spend some time mulling over your options and don’t hesitate to discuss things with close associates. Tarot message: Avoid confrontation and making personal remarks. Lucky colour: White Magic number: 37

LIBRA: You feel exhausted and decide to take time off from your hectic schedule. Spending time with loved ones will be a priority. Issues about money matters may be on your mind. Tarot message: You are advised to focus on professional changes. Lucky colour: Peach Magic number: 31

SCORPIO: You could be in a tense and restless mood and may feel agitated about certain matters concerning your career or personal life. Don’t give in to uncertainties, as this is just a temporary phase. Tarot message: Do not delegate your tasks to anyone. Lucky colour: Saffron Magic number: 29

SAGITTARIUS: Focus on health, diet and exercise. Business can be carried out successfully. Drive carefully. Defer a trip. A raise in interest can hit your bank balance hard. Tarot message: You need to act for yourself. Lucky color: Lotus pink Magic number: 65

CAPRICORN: Avoid Scorpio, who will drag you down with cautious advice. You will learn from practical experience. There is a blossoming of consciousness and the fragrance all around you. Tarot message: Allow a sick situation blow over before starting anew. Lucky colour: Yellow Magic number: 27

AQUARIUS: Don't ramp on over sensitive corns. Let today's influences bounce up your optimism. There is a good deal of success coming your way very soon, so all you have to do is travel hopefully. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid inbuilt delays. Lucky colour: Silver grey Magic number: 42

PISCES: Your anger will tend to be either switched on or switched off. Just proceed slowly and cautiously, double-check everything. Don't let feelings of inadequacy hold you back. Tarot message: Avoid gossip sessions. Lucky colour: Brown Magic number: 63

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is November 28...

Your personal relationships have been particularly impacted by changes and there will be a period of stagnancy this year. However, 2015 also forecasts that for the most part, things will be on the upswing. You will gain from many quarters and you will also get ancestral property this year.If there has been any money stuck somewhere, which has been giving you trouble, then this year you will come in search of you. Your source of money may come from writing and communicating. Sudden travel plans may take some of you to USA, Australia, Canada or New Zealand for a special assignment, or to look for job or business opportunities.

Positive colours: Golden, red, maroon

Select days: Sunday, Monday and Tuesday

Favourable numbers: 1, 2, 4, 7 and 9

Gems recommended: Sunstone, Ruby

Charity on birthday: Gift cosmetics in a marriage of an orphan or poor girl.

You share your birthday with Esha Gupta (28 November, 1985) who was signed by Mahesh Bhatt for a three-film contract with Vishesh Films and made her screen debut in Kunal Deshmukh’s Jannat 2, which was commercially successful. Combination of 1 and 8, besides a strong Sun in the birth chart, promise a bight career in the industry.





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