Wedding Issue 2013 by hi INDiA Weekly

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The Great Indian Wedding Convention is passé... Synthesis and daring is of the essence in the bride’s trousseau today... The groom’s too not far behind...

Inside Pages: v Trousseau Trends v Hair & Make-up v Design Specialties v Designers’ Closet v Groom’s Corner v Perfection v Planners

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2012

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RICH SHOULD

INDIA FEATURE

HEAVEN

PAY MORE

IS A FARM

U.S. President Barack Obama speaks to workers in Washington, D.C. on February 21.

IANS/EFE, WASHINGTON

Page 8

A father-daughter duo is showing a new way to lead life — far away from the glamour of materialistic world

President Barack Obama said on February 21 that the U.S. middle class deserved tax cuts, while people with incomes above $1 million per year should pay at least 30 percent in taxes. “Congress needs to make the Buffet rule a reality,” the President said. “This is common sense. If you make more than $1 million a year, you should pay a tax

rate of at least 30 percent.” The Buffet rule was inspired by the complaints of billionaire investor Warren Buffet, who said last year that he was taxed at a lower rate than his secretary. Obama thanked citizens who brought pressure to bear so that an agreement could be achieved in Congress between Democrats and Republicans to extend the payrolltax cut for 160 million workers. Page 4

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us news

US NEWS

‘REDUCE IRAN OIL USAGE’ U.S. government expects India to wean itself off Iranian oil ARUN KUMAR, WASHINGTON

he United States continues to talk to India to encourage it to reduce its dependence on Iranian crude, but would not say what progress it has made so far. “We’re talking to India; we’re talking to China; we’re talking to countries in Europe; we’re talking to countries in Asia and Africa, et cetera,” State Department spokesperson Victoria Nuland told reporters on February 21. “We are having talks with countries around the world about the implications of the legislation with regard to our expectation that countries will increasingly wean themselves off their dependence on Iranian oil,” she said. “But I’m not going to give you a blow by blow of how these conversations are going with the individual countries, except that I

BRIEFS US COURT TO HEAR 1984 RIOTS CASE NEW YORK: A U.S. court is set to hear on March 15 a plea for “default judgment” against India’s Congress party for failing to defend charges of conspiring, aiding, abetting and organizing anti-Sikh riots in November 1984. The case will be heard by Judge Robert W. Sweet of the U.S. Federal Court in New York, according to Sikhs for Justice, a U.S. based community organization, which filed a motion before the Court. The U.S. court had issued summons to the Congress party on March 1 last year. — IANS

HOUSTON ‘FATTEST CITY’ IN U.S. WASHINGTON: Houston, the fourth largest city in the U.S., has been ranked by a health magazine as the nation’s “fattest city”, with 34 percent of its population being overweight. Houston was also ranked No. 1 for fast food by Men’s Fitness magazine, with more than 1,000 fast food joints to choose from. Detroit, Cleveland, Memphis, and Tampa were the other US cities making the top five. Houston is also the fourth most populous city in the country. — IANS

AWARD-WINNING REPORTER DIES NEW YORK: Anthony Shadid, a Pulitzer Prize-winning foreign correspondent for The New York Times, died of an apparent asthma attack while covering the uprising in Syria, The Times said on February 17. He was 43. Shadid, a Lebanese-American, died on February 16 as he and The Times photographer Tyler Hicks were on their way back to neighboring Turkey in the company of smugglers, the newspaper said. — IANS

Weapons of Mass Destruction Commission Chairman Hans Blix (C) and Robert Kelley (L), former IAEA Chief Inspector, discuss Iran’s nuclear program.

We’re talking to India; we’re talking to China; we’re talking to countries in Europe; we’re talking to Asia and Africa think it’s fair to say that in all of these conversations, we share an objective, which is to increase the pressure on Iran,” Nuland said.

On former Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Nick Burns’ view that India’s decision to continue purchasing oil from Iran is

a slap on the face of the U.S., the spokesperson said the former diplomat “speaks for himself at this stage.” “Our goal is to continue to work with India to encourage it to do what it can to reduce its dependence on Iranian crude. And we will continue those discussions.” Asked if the U.S. had any update on the recent bomb blast in New Delhi and if it had any connection with Iran, Nuland said: “No. I don’t have anything further. As I understand it, India’s own investigation continues.” In the Diplomat magazine, Burns had questioned India’s ability to lead over its decision to continue buying Iranian oil and called it a slap in the face of the U.S. “India's decision to walk out of step with the international community on Iran isn't just a slap in the face for the U.S. — it raises questions about its ability to lead,” he wrote.

U.S. TO FOCUS ON BUSINESS ABROAD WASHINGTON: Suggesting that rising powers like India, China and Brazil were putting economics at the center of their foreign policies, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton advocates Economic Statecraft to champion U.S. businesses abroad. “America’s economic strength and our global leadership are a package deal. You’re not going to have one without the other,” she said at a State Department Global Business Conference in Washington on February 21. “Rising powers like China, India, and Brazil understand this as well, and we can’t sit on the sidelines while they put economics at the center of their foreign policies,” Clinton said. "We believe that trade and prosperity will benefit not just our own people, but people everywhere. Our economies are interdependent as never before, and so are our fates. America’s renewal depends on the strength of the global economy,” she said.

‘Rich should pay more’ Fake collectors busted IANS/EFE, WASHINGTON

should not stop there and now had to approve a law so that the victims of the mortgage bubble could refinance their debt, given that banks

resident Barack Obama said on February 21 that the U.S. middle class deserved tax cuts, while people with incomes above $1 million per year should pay at least 30 percent in taxes. “Congress needs to make the Buffet rule a reality,” the President said. “This is common sense. If you make more than $1 million a year, you should pay a tax rate of at least 30 percent.” The Buffet rule was inspired by the complaints of billionaire U.S. President Barack Obama speaks to investor Warren Buffet, who workers in Washington, D.C. on February 21. said last year that he was taxed were now enjoying historically low at a lower rate than his secretary. Obama thanked citizens who interest rates. He also called for measures to brought pressure to bear so that an agreement could be achieved in support small and medium busiCongress between Democrats and nesses who wanted to export their Republicans to extend the payroll- products instead of favoring those who were sending their production tax cut for 160 million workers. The President said that Congress operations offshore.

IANS, WASHINGTON

.S. authorities have cracked down on a new scam in which so-called phantom debt collectors using call centers in India harassed Americans into paying bills running into millions of dollars. One scheme, which has bilked U.S. consumers out of some

Crunchers, an affiliated company called Ebeeze and that of their owner, Varang K. Thaker. The FTC alleged Thaker obtained information — often including social security or bank account numbers — about consumers who had inquired about or applied for online payday loans. Thaker used callers in India, who often posed as law enforce-

Thaker obtained information about consumers who had inquired about or applied for online payday loans $5 million so far, involved about eight million phone calls originating in India to American consumers over an eight-month period, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) said on February 21. A district court judge in Chicago ordered a Villa Park, California, company to cease operations and froze the assets of American Credit

ment officers or other government officials, to threaten people with arrest, a lawsuit or the loss of their job if they didn’t repay online payday loans. demanded payments of $500 to $2,000. Some complied even when they knew they didn’t owe money, to avoid a potential arrest, authorities said.

WILL BRING 26/11 CULPRITS TO BOOK: US TO INDIA ARUN KUMAR, WASHINGTON

he United States has assured India all possible assistance as provided within the framework of law to help bring the culprits of the November 2008 Mumbai terror attacks to book. The assurance was given by U.S. Attorney General Eric H. Holder during a meeting with Indian

Ambassador Nirupama Rao at the Department of Justice on February 21, according to Indian officials. “Underscoring the crucial importance of cooperation in the investigation of the Mumbai terror attacks, Ambassador Rao expressed the hope that a few important aspects of the request for assistance in this regard would be fulfilled soon,” the Indian Embassy said in a media release.

A Delhi court has set March 13 to discuss how to get Headley and Tahawwur Rana extradited from the U.S.

Fire erupting from Taj Mahal Hotel in Mumbai during the 2008 terror attacks.

“This assumes importance in view of the need of bringing the main culprits to book without delay,” it said without giving the specifics of the Indian request. “Holder assured all possible assistance as provided within the framework of U.S. law in this regard and underscored the importance the U.S. attached to counter terrorism cooperation with India,” the release said. A Delhi court has set March 13 to discuss how to get LeT terrorist Headley and his Pakistani-Canadian accomplice Tahawwur Rana extradited from the U.S.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2012

x FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2012

india news

INDIA NEWS

PM ASSURES CMs ON NCTC Creation of the anti-terror hub in states only after consultations: Mamata IANS, NEW DELHI

rime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh sought to reach out to seven of the 11 chief ministers opposing the proposed National Counter-Terrorism Center (NCTC) in its present format on February 21, assuring them extensive consultations but stopped short of putting the decision on hold. “I noted your concerns and am asking the (union) Home Minister to address them suitably,” Dr. Singh said in his letter to chief ministers of Tripura, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Gujarat, West Bengal, Bihar and Madhya Pradesh. Other chief ministers who oppose the move are from the states of Himachal Pradesh, Chattisgarh, Karnataka and Jharkhand. “The primary purpose of NCTC is to coordinate counter-terrorism efforts across the country and it is

BRISK POLLING IN UTTAR PRADESH LUCKNOW: Brisk polling was reported on February 23 from most of the 49 assembly constituencies that voted in the fifth round of the seven-phased Uttar Pradesh elections, including areas considered the state’s badlands. “Polling began at 7 a.m. and is going on very smoothly. In the first four hours it is estimated to have crossed 21 percent,” chief electoral officer Umesh Sinha told IANS. He was hopeful of a further rise in turnout. “The weather has changed and I am sure that with the winter chill gone, more and more people will come out to vote,” Sinha said. An electorate numbering 15,654,936 (men 8,653,345, women 7,001,279 and others 312) will seal the fate of 829 candidates, including 87 women candidates. The political parties contesting in this phase are Bahujan Samaj Party, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Congress, Nationalist Congress Party, Samajwadi Party (SP) and others. Apart from Samajwadi Party chief Mulayam Singh Yadav’s home Etawah, other districts to witness the poll on February 23 were Mainpuri, Firozabad, Etah, Auraiya, Rama Bai Nagar, Kanshi Ram Nagar, Kanpur, Jhansi, Hamirpur, Lalitpur, Mahoba and Jalaun. Performance in these districts is an acid test for Mulayam, who is believed to command a lot of influence over both the Yadav and other backward classes in these parts. Likewise, the prestige of BJP star campaigner Uma Bharti is also at stake because she came from neighbouring Madhya Pradesh in the hope of attracting the Lodhi backward caste community, which has a major presence in Bundelkhand region. —IANS

Chief Minister of West Bengal Kumari Mamata Banerjee meeting Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh in New Delhi on February 22.

for this reason that NCTC has been located within IB and not as a separate organization,” he said. The resistance to the anti-terror

intelligence hub continued to grow after it was first voiced by Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. The states’ overwhelming opposi-

tion for the proposed NCTC was on the grounds that it would be under the IB, which is out of the purview of parliamentary oversight, and infringe upon the states’ powers to deal with terrorism. Meanwhile, after meeting the Prime Minister on February 22, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said that Dr. Singh assured her that the proposed antiterror hub would not become operational till consultations with the states were completed. “In the name of NCTC, they can arrest anybody, interrogate any business. It is contradictory to the federal structure,” Banerjee said. She said she also raised the issue of leak in the Farakka Barrage, due to which most water in the Teesta river was going to Bangladesh and rivers like Hoogly and Bhagirathi had gone dry and West Bengal was facing shortage of drinking water and electricity.

ITALY REGRETS KILLING OF FISHERMEN IANS, NEW DELHI

ndia and Italy failed to resolve their row over the killing of two Indian fishermen on February 22, with Rome regretting the deaths but insisting they took place in international waters. New Delhi, however, made it clear that the two arrested Italian Marines would face Indian law. After meeting Minister of State for External Affairs Preneet Kaur, Italian Deputy Foreign Minister Staffan de Mistura voiced “terrible sadness” over the February 15 killing of the fishermen off Kerala coast. “We do acknowledge and recognize that two Indian fishermen died. No one doubts it, and it is terribly sad,” said de Mistura. The meeting came three days after talks between Indian and Italian officials failed to break the impasse. Salvatore Girone and Latorre

investigation will ascertain the exact position” of the Italian merchant ship, Enrica Lexie. Kaur said after the talks that there was no agreement between the two sides. “(We) will certainly go by our law. As far as law is (concerned), they have their interpretation and we have An Italian diplomat (C) with guards of Enrica (ours).” Lexie who were held for killing Kerala fishermen Italian Foreign Minister

Says the incident took place in international waters and the Marines cannot be tried in Indian courts. India contests both the claims Massimillano, the Italian Marines on board the Italian ship who fired at the fishermen mistaking them for pirates, have been charged with murder. De Mistura said the killings happened in international waters “and

Giulio Terzi is to visit India for further talks. Italy says the incident took place in international waters and the Marines cannot be tried in Indian courts. New Delhi contests both the claims.

REPLICATING THEORY OF HAPPINESS RAYMOND KHARMUJAI, SHILLONG

eghalaya wants to replicate Bhutan’s model of Gross National Happiness as an index of the state’s wellbeing, says Chief Minister Mukul Sangma. “We will follow Bhutan’s happiness theory and we need to focus on how to bring down the frustration level of people through new economic models and bring about happiness for the overall well-being of our people,” Sangma said in an interview on February 23. “The well-being of the people

Bhutanese performing Chau dance

should be the focus area of our state’s planners,” Sangma said. Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness is a policy framed by former monarch Jigme Singye Wangchuck to try to reflect the true quality of life in a more holistic manner. A study conducted by the University of Leicester in

Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness is a policy framed by Jigme Singye Wangchuck to reflect the true quality of life in a holistic manner

GOVERNMENT DENIES PLANS TO CURB EC NEW DELHI: Stung by attacks from the Opposition, the government on February 21 denied it planned to curb the Election Commission’s powers to implement the model code of conduct during elections. A Group of Ministers (GoM) on corruption was only considering “state funding of elections”, an official statement said. “The GoM has not made any recommendation to make the model mode of conduct statutory or to take it outside the purview of the Election Commission,” the statement from the Department of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions said. Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) hit out at the Congress, saying it was a party of “serial offenders” of the Election Commission’s model code of conduct. “We will oppose weakening of the EC... the Congress doesn’t like to be regulated by it,” BJP leader Arun Jaitley said. The government, however, clarified that the GoM on corruption, headed by Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee, had “state funding of elections” as one of its mandates. “The contents of the report are totally misconceived as there is no such move under contemplation of the government or the GoM,” the government statement said. The GoM, in its last meeting on September 30, considered a presentation by the secretary of the legislative department on the viability of alternatives on the question of state funding of elections. Mukherjee, in his reaction to the reports, said the issue of Election Commission’s powers “has come up for the first time and there is nothing on the GoM’s agenda”. Law Minister Salman Khurshid, Communications Minister Kapil Sibal and Corporate Affairs Minister M. Veerappa Moily concurred. “To my knowledge, there is no such thing on the agenda. As far as I understand, it was agreed that once the elections are over, there will be an all-party consultation on the issue about electoral reforms,” Khurshid said. —IANS

Britain ranks Bhutan as the planet’s eighth happiest place, ahead of the U.S. and Canada. As of now, Sangma said, the economic growth of Meghalaya focuses upon asset creation in terms of infrastructure development. “Merely developing infrastructure would not help unless these are cared for with a sense of belonging and ownership. Therefore, state infrastructure needs to be given a healing touch periodically with a sense of belonging,” Sangma said. “Moreover, the emphasis must be on developing human resources and environment protection.” He said focus must be shifted to the use of renewable from nonrenewable resources.

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INDIA FEATURE

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2012

HEAVEN IS A FARM

A father-daughter duo is showing a new way to lead life — far away from the glamour of materialistic world

SHIKHA NEHRA, DEHRADUN

ome spend a week, some a fortnight. And some, like Germany’s Stephanie, have spent more than 40 days away from their mainstream lives on an off-grid community farm in the Himalayan foothills in the state of Uttarakhand. The farm shows that an elementary way of leading life can also give the happiness people search for in the materialistic world around them. Hari Pant and Richa, a father-daughter duo, call it the Himalayan Farm Project (HFP). HFP is an organic farm in Raila village, some 200 km from the Uttarakhand capital. NIKHIL WALIA, NEW DELHI

omics are usually seen as entertainment. But soon, the drawings may become a powerful medium for campaigning and spreading awareness about social issues in rural areas of India. The Grassroots Comics movement is a social venture aimed at empowering the villagers in India by providing them a medium of social awareness, which is simple to create and easy to understand. “We go to remote areas and educate people on how to express ideas through drawings. These people then create their own comics portraying their issues, and we distribute the comics,” says Sharad Sharma, founder of the Grassroots Comics movement. Crudely drawn, the comics in regional languages cover social issues such as the unrest in the north-east, rights of the girl child,

The farm, located at an altitude of 4,500 feet, is spread across five acres. It sits isolated and has no electricity. Still the farm is “heaven on earth’ to Pant, a 70-year-old retired Army brigadier, and those who visit it as volunteers, from as far as Australia, Belgium, Croatia, Ecuador, France, Germany, Italy, South Africa, Switzerland and the U.S. The idea is to live a simple life, where you recycle and harness natural sustainable resources to build a world, grow your own food, and thereby reduce the carbon footprint. Pant started the farm after returning from a six-month fellowship for studying agro-ecology and sustainable food systems at the University corporal punishments and sexual abuse of children. Starting from the early 1990s, Sharma began using comics as a tool for spreading awareness. “When I started doing journalism, I left my home and headed for the north-east, where I spent a lot of time among the people. I had

ic, ginger, potatoes, onions, garlic (Clockwise from left) A volunteer and mango and ‘lychee’ trees,” watering the plants at Himalayan Farm Project; a compost toilet at the farm; says Richa. Hari Pant with another volunteer “People used to practice sustenance farming in mountains. They had small landholdings. the increasing disconnect between So they grew a range of crops nature and city dwellers, he says. — from vegetables to pulses — “They do not even know the source for family consumption. But of their food. I want people to experience the joy of growing one’s own food,” he says. This reason makes The idea is to live a simple life, where you this project globally appealing. Elliot Mercier, a student from recycle and harness natural sustainable France, says: “Where I grew up, resources to build a world, grow your own people tend to forget what life is all food, and thereby reduce the carbon footprint about. They search for happiness in buying a new car, a new dog.” So far, the 30 volunteers (26 of California in Santa Cruz. He slowly they found mixed farming started looking for a farm near his insufficient to make the ends meet foreigners and four Indian) have family home in Bhimtal. and shifted to mono agriculture,” built a compost toilet and a kitchen. In June 2011, with his daughter says Pant. “Mono farming ruined “I know organic farming is not Richa, Pant acquired the farm with our food cycle. Farmers began to use profitable and it is difficult for peofinancial help from friends. The ear- pesticides and chemicals to increase ple to leave their existing lifestyles. lier owner had abandoned the farm. the yield to sell more and traded All we are trying to tell people is that “It took us a couple of months to healthy food for money.” there can be an alternative, yet a restore what all was left, like turmerAnother reason behind HFP is healthy and happy life,” says Pant.

TRUTH COMICS So, Grassroots Comics started as a way to bring out their stories,” he says. Sharma says the comics movement has been taking off slowly

We go to remote areas and educate people on how to express their ideas through comic drawings. These people then create their own short comics portraying their issues — Sharad Sharma always felt that these people were the most under-represented in India,” he says. “During my stay in the north-east, I talked to the people affected by the unrest. But due to lack of media coverage, their stories never got into the mainstream.

but people have come to realize the power of comics as a tool for creating awareness. “Now we conduct workshops in all the states of the country. “Over 20 years, we have built a name for Grassroots Comics and institutions now call us and con-

duct workshops. We train people on how to draw and how to convey their ideas through small comics,” he says. He is part of the the World Comic Forum, which is spread in several countries in the Indian

Sub-continent, Africa and Latin America. “The World Comic Forum provides a platform for the grassroots comics from all over the world to be shared,” he claimed. “These comics are photocopied and then distributed. The World Comic Forum has become the first international forum for such grass-roots comics to be shared,” says Sharma.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2012

x FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2012

diaspora

DIASPORA

AUSTRALIA BACK ON STUDY MAP About 30 pc increase in Indian students applying for higher studies; special steps taken to improve security IANS, NEW DELHI

fter a phase of decline in Indian students going to Australia, the continent nation is once again registering a rise in number of students applying for admissions to its universities. “There has been a significant increase in number of applications received and the number of students applying for universities in Australia. The increase is almost 30 percent compared to last year,” said Australian High Commissioner Peter Varghese on the sidelines of a press meet on February 21. A major decline was noted in the number of Indian students going to Australia for higher studies after several incidents of violent attacks on Indians were reported in Australia in 2010-11.

The new visa rules announced last year enable students to stay back in Australia for two to four years after getting their degrees “Compared to the peak years of 2008 and 2009, there was nearly 40 percent drop,” said Varghese,

adding that the incidents were not the main reason behind the decline.

“There was a significant decline in number of students opting for Australian universities internationally. It was because of the overall economic scenario, and high (Australian) dollar value,” he said. Ted Baillieu, the Premier of Australia’s Victoria province, who was on India visit, also confirmed that the number of students from India was increasing following special steps from the Australian government. “We are noticing an increase again. The state has taken steps to ensure safety of the students and we are very serious about it,” Baillieu said, replying to a query. “There is more patrolling, more police presence. We have taken it seriously,” he said. More than 100 incidents of attacks against Indian students were reported in 2009 and 2010 in

BAWA GETS SUSTAINABILITY AWARD He is also noted for founding, and serving as president, of the Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment (ATREE), a non-profit conservation and development research think tank in Bangaluru. “I am very pleased over the recognition that our work has received,” Bawa was quoted as saying in an interview with a Norwegian newspaper. “In January, 2011, a University of Pennsylvania study ranked ATREE number 19 among the

ARUN KUMAR, WASHINGTON

amal Bawa, an India-born professor of biology at the University of Massachusetts Boston, is the 2012 winner of the Gunnerus Sustainability Award, the world’s first major international award for work on sustainability. Bawa would receive the Gunnerus Gold Medal and the award of 1 million Norwegian Kronor (about $190,000) at a ceremony in Trondheim, Norway, said the university citing a Royal Norwegian Society of Sciences and Letters (DKNVS) announcement. Bawa, also a faculty fellow at the Center for Governance and Sustainability, home of the Global Environmental Governance Project, is known for his research on population biology in rainforest areas. His span of work includes biological discoveries MADHUSREE CHATTERJEE, NEW DELHI

he kinship was quaint, spanning two continents and cultures. And yet, American percussionist and Carnatic musician Douglas M. Knight Jr. is one of the most important people in Bharatanatyam legend Thanjavur Balasaraswati’s illustrious household. The American exponent of percussion instrument mridangam is the late dancer’s son-in-law.

Kamal Bawa

made in Central America, the Western Ghats, and the Himalayas in India.

The Gunnerus award is the first major international prize for outstanding scientific work that promotes sustainable development globally, and will be awarded every two years environmental think tanks in the world, and implicitly number 1 in Asia, and now I am going to

THE INDIA-US CONNECT “I didn’t choose her; I was part of her family. My association with several members of Balasaraswati’s family has been at the center of my musical and personal life since the late 1960s,” said Knight. Knight’s biography of the dancer, Balasaraswati: Her Art & Life (publisher: Westland), arrived at bookstores in India in February this year. Balasaraswati (1918-1984) was one of the first generation of

My association with Balasaraswati’s family has been at the center of my musical and personal life since the late 1960s — Douglas M. Knight Jr.

receive the Gunnerus Award — I am very happy.” Until recently, Bawa held the Ruffolo Giorgio Fellowship in Sustainability Science and Bullard Fellowship at Harvard University. The Gunnerus award is the first major international prize for outstanding scientific work that promotes sustainable development globally, and will be awarded every two years. The award is named after DKNVS’ founder, Bishop Johan Ernst Gunnerus (1718-1773), and

is the result of collaboration between DKNVS, Sparebank1, SMN, and the society Technoport.

Australia, mainly in Victoria province. According to Varghese, new visa rules are attracting more applications. “The new visa rules allow students to stay on for a few years after completing their degree and work in the country, so more students are applying now,” he said. The new visa rules announced last year enable students to stay back in Australia for two to four years after getting their degrees. Canberra had earlier tightened visa regime for Indian students, stating that a number of them come to Australia to settle down by taking admissions in non-skilled vocational courses like cookery and hair-cutting. It had implied that this was one of the reasons for a series of attacks on Indian youths in Australia.

DESAI MADE HEAD OF US PARTY PANEL WASHINGTON: Akshay Desai, who studied medicine in India, has been made the chief of the Republican Party of Florida’s finance committee. “I am grateful that Desai has agreed to accept this crucial role,” said RPOF’s chairperson Lenny Curry. “In this election year, we need the resources for victory, and Desai’s long history of work for the state and our party make him a proven leader. A.K. and I are ready to roll up our sleeves and win,” a statement quoted Curry as saying. Desai has been a member of the Florida State Board of Education since 2007. He received his medical degree in India, and earned his Master’s in Public Health Administrative Medicine from the George Washington University. Desai is currently president and CEO of Universal Health Care Group, which he founded in 2002. —IANS

Bharatanatyam dancers who took play the mridangam. I studied the the genre out of the confines of the instrument between 1968 and devadasi or temple dancer traditions 1981,” Knight recalled. to put it in the mainstream of IndiHe first performed as a drummer an culture. with Balasaraswati’s daughter LakshKnight’s first encounter with the mi in 1974. family dates back to 1971. He “We married in 1980 and lived in “encountered her brother Ran- Balasaraswati’s home in Chennai. ganathan as an undergraduate at the Our son Aniruddha absorbed and University of Wesleyan (Connecti- learned the family styles of music cut) in 1971”. and dance. I watched her teach her “Ranga was a Carnatic musician. daughter Lakshmi and our son,” I decided to follow this practice and Knight said. when I was a graduate student at the After wife Lakshmi’s death, California Institute of Arts, Bal- Knight has been accompanying asaraswati held a residency there,” Aniruddha, a Bharatanatyam dancer, on the mridangam for the Knight said. The lyricism and beauty of last 15 years. “He carries on in his Bharatanatyam drew Knight to mother Lakshmi’s and grandmother India. “I came close to the family, Balasaraswati’s traditions,” Knight married her daughter and learnt to said.

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QURAN BURNT, RAGE FOLLOWS Burnt copies found in NATO’s Afghan garrison; four protesters killed IANS, KABUL

our people were killed and 19 injured on February 22 after thousands of Afghans staged angry demonstrations for the second day in Kabul and Jalalabad over the alleged Quran burning by U.S. military personnel. Protests erupted on February 21 here after media reports said copies of the Quran were found in the

garbage that NATO forces transported in a truck on the night of February 20 to a pit where waste is burned. U.S. officials apologized over the incident at Bagram airbase, 50 km north of Kabul, where hundreds of suspected Taliban and Al-Qaida operatives have been held. One person was killed in the capital city of Kabul, one in Jalalabad city and two in Parwan province. Officials at Bagram believed Tal-

(L-R) A U.S. soldier wields a rifle as another handles a shotgun at the Bagram airbase gate during a protest against Quran desecration at Bagram, 60 km from Kabul, on February 21. Afghans throw stones at the soldiers. — AFP

iban prisoners were using the books to pass messages to one another. The charred remains of the volumes were found by local laborers. In Kabul, protesters shouted”

“Death to America!” and threw stones at Camp Phoenix, the main U.S. base in the city. Riot police used water cannons to disperse protesters, some of whom were blocking the road

Ijaz sticks to coup claim ‘No ruling with iron fist’ IANS, ISLAMABAD

Supreme Court-appointed commission probing the memo scandal here on February 22 began recording the testimony of Pakistani-American businessman Mansoor Ijaz, the key fig-

told him that the army wanted to topple the government. Commission secretary Raja Jawad Abbas and counsel of Haqqani and Ijaz, among others, attended the proceedings in London and Pakistan, respectively, Geo TV reported. Ijaz arrived at the Pakistan High Commission in London to testify before the commission via video link. A three-member judicial com-

Ijaz told the commission that Pak’s then envoy to the U.S. Husain Haqqani had told him the army wanted to topple the government

U.S. businessman Mansoor Ijaz

ure in the controversy, through video-conference from London. Ijaz said that Pakistan’s then envoy to the U.S. Husain Haqqani had

mission headed by Balochistan High Court Chief Justice Qazi Faiz Isa is probing the scandal. Haqqani's counsel Zahid Bukhari requested the Bench that he wanted to cross-question Ijaz in person. The commission asked him to submit an application for it.

Mohammed Waheed, the then Vice-President, succeeded Nasheed ormer Maldives President after he resigned on February 7. “You cannot control the people Mohamed Nasheed has said the days of ruling with an iron with tazers, pepper spray or batons fist rule in the country had gone today; that day has long gone,” the and now one could not seize con- Haveeru daily quoted Nasheed as trol of a government simply by saying on February 21. “Most peoarresting or assassinating the leader. ple love their independence and He said the notion of taking over detest oppression and brutality.” He said the Maldivian Democrathe state’s arsenal to take control of a government was a “long lost tra- tic Party, which he had founded, dition” and that his government would restore its rule, not by force was toppled by the security forces in but by the votes of the people. “The power attained by apprea “coup”. hending the people and torturing Mohamed Nasheed them would bring no good to the people and “the days of iron fist rule in the Maldives had long gone”, he said. Meanwhile, the government has appointed a commission to inquire into the transfer of power which former President Mohamed Nasheed has termed a coup, a Maldivian diplomat said in Colombo on February 22. IANS, MALE

Language Day, sans borders SUJIT CHAKRABORTY, AKHAURAH (INDO-BANGLA BORDER)

ndia and Bangladesh on February 21 jointly organized the International Mother Language Day, as thousands of people from both sides of the border paid tribute to the language martyrs, People from India and Bangladesh, joining the celebrations, walked deep into each others’ territory. Artists from the two sides had been presenting dances, rendering songs and and staging plays since the morning. Members of Parliament, legislators, ministers and other important personalities took part in International Mother Language Day held at the zero point on this border, 3 km from Tripura’s capital, Agartala.

“For the first time, the day was jointly celebrated in the presence of thousands of people from both sides of the border. Such joint celebrations will strengthen the ties between India and Bangladesh,” said Bangladesh MP Obaidul Muktadir Chowdhury at the function. “Such joint carnivals will be held frequently. No one could have predicted so many people from both

Bangladesh observes February 21 as ‘Martyrs’ Day’ to commemorate the killing of Dhaka University students in police firing in 1952

leading to Jalalabad, one of the main trade routes to the capital. Protesters also burned an effigy of U.S. President Barack Obama in Jalalabad, and set oil tankers on fire.

BRIEFS COLD KILLS 24 AFGHAN KIDS KABUL: As many as 24 children have died over the past four days in Badakhshan province due to snowfall, chilly weather and cold-related diseases, an official said on February 22. “Freezing weather, snowfall and cold-related diseases have claimed the lives of 24 children in Raghistan and Yawan districts over the past four days,” Zabihullah Atiq, an official, said.

DAM DEVELOPS CRACKS IN PAKISTAN ISLAMABAD: A committee will probe the cause behind cracks in a dam in Gilgit-Baltistan region. Gilgit-Baltistan Legislative Assembly Speaker Wazir Baig has constituted the committee to investigate the cracks that had appeared in the water reservoir of the 18MW power station in Naltar. Syed Raziuddin Rizvi, a lawmaker, said there was likelihood of calamity in case the water reservoir burst.

15 MILITANTS KILLED IN PAKISTAN ISLAMABAD: At least 15 militants have been killed in the country's northwest by security forces, a media report said on February 23. Security forces, backed up by army aircraft, launched an operation in Upper Orakzai to battle militants hiding in the area, a TV report said. Four militants’ hideouts were destroyed in the operation and seven militants were injured.

‘NEED TO PRESERVE MOHENJO-DARO’ Bangladeshis and Indians laying wreaths at the Language Martyrs’ memorial. — IANS

sides of the border would participate.” Another Bangladeshi MP Ziaul Haque Mrida said: “India-Bangladesh cultural diplomacy will resolve many issues.” International Mother Language Day, first announced by the U.N. in 1999, is observed on February 21 across the world to promote awareness of linguistic diversity.

Bangladesh observes February 21 as ‘Martyrs’ Day’ to commemorate the killing of Salam, Barkat, Rafiq, Jabbar and other men in police firing in 1952 when thousands of students took out a procession from Dhaka University, breaching police barriers, demanding recognition of Bangla as a state language of East Pakistan.

ISLAMABAD: The ancient site of Mohenjo-Daro has been badly neglected, a leading Pakistani daily observed on February 22, pointing out that much more needed to be done even though Rs 100 million had been allocated for it. The Dawn said: “Much more is needed for the effort to be meaningful. The site has been neglected so much that it was taken off the tourism map.”

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The cash-strapped carrier cuts flights to fend off debt; banks plan lifeline

IANS, NEW DELHI

A consortium of lenders led by the State Bank

risis-hit Kingfisher Airof India is considering a relief package worth lines submitted a new `16.5 billion for the airline, sources say flight schedule to the industry regulator on The regulator is probing the February 22 amidst buzz that the regulator had received the new carrier had got a lifeline from a con- schedule and was studying it. The large-scale flight cancellations and airline was directed by the DGCA whether financial constraints have in sortium of banks. The airline, however, cancelled on February 21 to submit a revised anyway compromised passenger 30 flights for the fifth consecutive and realistic flight schedule within safety. As word spread during the day day as it had told the Directorate- 24 hours. DGCA Chief E.K. Bharat that the ailing airline has managed General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) that with 28 aircraft it would oper- Bhushan also briefed Civil Aviation funding from a consortium of ate around 170-180 flights daily Minister Ajit Singh on February 22 banks, Ajit Singh said, “We hope after the regulator’s nod. about the discussion he had with the Kingfisher can mobilize its Sources in the DGCA said the airline’s management. resources... It’s good if banks give

BRIEFS GOVT SEEKS REVIEW OF VERDICT ON VODAFONE NEW DELHI: The Indian tax authorities on February 17 filed a review petition in the Supreme Court on its verdict in a $2.2 billion tax dispute favoring telecom service provider Vodafone. The case involved a levy on a 2007 transaction in which Vodafone Plc had paid $11.2 billion to Hong Kong-based Hutchison for acquiring a 67-percent stake in Indian telecom services major Hutch Essar. — IANS

2G: RELIEF FOR RAVI RUIA, THREE OTHERS NEW DELHI: A special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court here granted exemption to corporate honcho Ravi Ruia of the Essar group and three others from making a personal appearance in the 2G case on February 22. The matter has been listed for March 17. CBI did not oppose the application of exemption moved by the four accused in the 2G scam. — IANS

loans to the airline.” Ruling out a government bailout for a private company, Singh said: “Banks are going to take their own decisions.” Sources said a consortium of lenders led by the State Bank of India (SBI) was considering a relief package worth `16.5 billion for the airline, crippled by a massive cash crunch, exodus of pilots and cabin crew, and grounded aircraft. Kingfisher has a debt of `70.57 billion. The company’s net loss widened to `4.44 billion for the quarter ended December 31, 2011, from `2.54 billion in the OctoberDecember quarter in the last fiscal.

‘SIX PPP PORT PROJECTS TO BE SANCTIONED’ IANS, CHENNAI

US TO RAISE ISSUES OF INFRASTRUCTURE

he government would award about six public-privatepartnership (PPP) projects in the port sector this fiscal, including a project of Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT), Shipping Minister G.K. Vasan said on February 20. Responding to the private investors in the port sector complaining about the delay in getting clearances for their projects, Vasan said, “We understand there are some delays in the award of PPP projects in the port sector. Around `160 billion worth of projects, numbering 22, are under consideration. By March, five-six projects will be given permission, including the one at JNPT worth around `67 billion.” He also said that the Chennai Port Trust would redraw its business plans to compensate for the loss of revenue in handling dirty cargo.

He said the Chennai Port Trust would focus on handling cleaner and containerized cargo as well as building parking lots to compensate for the loss of around `2.26 billion revenue owing to the Madras High Court’s order banning handling of coal and iron orders by it. He said a committee headed by Captain Mohan had submitted its report detailing the new areas for the Chennai Port Trust to focus on. However, Vasan said he did not agree that the Chennai Port Trust and the Shipping Ministry did not

CHENNAI: The U.S. would raise the concerns of its companies operating in India with regard to infrastructure and congestion of ports with the Indian officials, visiting Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade Francisco J. Sanchez said on February 20. Sanchez is leading a delegation of 12 U.S. companies looking out for business in India in the areas of ports and logistics. He said there would be 65 Indian cities with a population of over one million by 2030, which presented a good opportunity for U.S. companies operating in infrastructure sectors like power. Earlier, speaking at a meeting organized by the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce, Sanchez said the bilateral trade in goods between India and the U.S. in 2011 was nearly $58 billion, up from $49 billion in 2010. — IANS

2G AUCTION: FRESH CHALLENGES PRIYANKA SAHAY, NEW DELHI

he Indian mobile consumer could be spared a large tariff hike due to the mandated auction of 2G telecom spectrum. Industry analysts don’t foresee a tariff war in the run-up to the auction and say there could be a minor pricing correction thereafter without significantly burning a hole in the consumers’ pocket. The auction, made necessary after the Supreme Court order annulled 122 telecom licenses, is

WASHINGTON: US-based airlines, through their lobby the Air Transport Association of America, have sued Export Import Bank (ExIm) over its $3.3 billion in loan guarantees to a deeply-in-the-red Air India. Air India used these U.S. taxpayer subsidies to buy 30 Boeing jets for less than it would have paid in a free market, the association said in a revised complaint before a U.S. court. This, the US airlines lobby argues, gave Air India a competitive advantage over Delta, which was flying USto-Mumbai flights just like Air India. Last month, Delta cancelled its service to Mumbai. Rebutting claims of US-based airlines point by point, Air India on February 20 said it was not a party in the case filed against the American ExIm Bank. Air India also refuted the claims of the Air Transport Association of America, saying the 27 aircraft bought with the loan are yet to be inducted. Air India said all its India-US flights were operated on Boeing 777s for which it did not seek the loan from the ExIm bank. — IANS

rather likely to trigger a consolidation in the 15-player sector, resulting in little pricing freedom to the biggies. “Indian players such as Videocon and Unitech, who have lost their licenses may find bidding a challenge and there would be a consolidation in the sector,” Mahesh Uppal, Director of consultancy firm ComFirst India, said. Analysts said the auction was also not going to witness aggressive bidding. For, the financials of the older players who coughed up

huge amount of money for 3G bidding are not that strong. The demand for 3G services has not really taken off so far. The Supreme Court, while ordering the revocation of 122 telecom licences, has given four months’ time to the affected operators to shut shops. Oslo-based Telenor which has majority stake in Uninor has been the worst affected as all its 22 licences stand cancelled following the apex court verdict. The Telenor Group on February 21 said it intended to form a

foresee such a ban even after the construction of Ennore Port specifically to handle the dusty and dirty cargo. According to Chennai Port Trust Chairman Atulya Misra, the key recommendations of the Mohan Committee are for the port to focus on handling clean cargoes like containers, fertilizers, cruise shipping, food, wood and others. On the issue of coastal shipping, Vasan said the government was in the process of discussing a new policy. He said the new land policy (leasing and other usage of land) for ports had gone for inter-ministerial consultations and that it would be sent to the Cabinet later. Asked about the killing of two Indian fishermen by security personnel of an Italian ship off the Kollam coast near Kerala, Vasan said: “Indian water front is peaceful and is not a pirate infested area. The killing of fishermen is unpardonable and the killers have to be punished.”

ETISALAT TO SHUT DOWN INDIA OPERATION

new company through which it would carry on its mobile business in India and participate in the upcoming 2G spectrum auction.

NEW DELHI: Telecom service provider Etisalat DB on February 22 said it would shut down its services in India following the Supreme Court order cancelling of 122 spectrum licences, including 15 of the company, which has over 1.6 million subscribers. The firm said the official cessation date would shortly be communicated to its customers. Etisalat DB, a joint venture between Abu Dhabi-based telecom firm Etisalat and India’s DB Group, also said that it would take a decision on its future participation in the Indian market when there would be clarity on the auction process and telecom policy, and greater regulatory certainty and stability. — IANS

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Elegantly Gorgeous Why be a carbon copy of yesterday’s bride! Don’t hesitate to experiment. Try a brand new cut and color on your D day... NIVEDITA SHARMA, NEW DELHI

rides can make a style statement this wedding season with anarkalis, panitar saris and IndoWestern styles like pallu jumpsuit, drape jumpsuit and gowns, designers say. Not just traditional Indian colors like red but also earthy tones like tan olive, beige and gold are becoming popular. “Brides are getting more experimental trying out different looks for different occasions. Wedding planners are driving new themes and so the costume revolves around the subject, bringing in the much wanted variety in terms of cuts and color palette,” says Mumbai-based designer Archana Kochhar. “The classic panitar saris are intricately modified into outwork versions reflecting classical traditional designs and styles. The floor-length panel anarkali with a crushed narrow skirt is a new silhouette Indian brides are opting for,” Kochhar says. “Indo-Western styles like a pallu jumpsuit, drape jumpsuit gowns, lycra dhotis and puffed-skirt short lehengas are a great fun option,” she adds. Choosing the bridal dress depends on a girl’s frame and skin tone, feels fashion czarina Neeta Lulla. “For girls who are tall and slender, bright and colorful saris in various colors and broad borders can do wonders. Dark-colored saris with embroidery running vertically will suit pearshaped frames. Dark shades with small bootis and thin borders will be more appropriate for girls with rounder figure,” says Lulla. Earlier while brides were only seen wearing the signature red or maroon, Bollywood beauties like Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Lara Dutta, Shilpa Shetty and Kalki Koelchin have broken the norm by introducing a new family of colors to their bridal wear. Aishwarya had donned a creamcolored Kanjeevaram sari at her wedding. Lara draped a cream and gold sari for her court wedding whereas Kalki took her saat pheras in a white silk sari with an elaborate matching border. “Red and Anarkalis, panitar saris, pallu jumpsuits, drape jumpsuits and gowns are much in vogue. Go for earthy tones like tan olive, beige, cream and gold.

pink are the eternal but these days brides want to have something new and are ready to experiment. This season offers a mixed array of colors, ranging from earthy tones like tan olive, beige, gold, deep red to traditional Indian hues like emerald, green, red, bright pink and orchid,” Lulla adds. Breaking the monotony of satin and lace fabrics are chiffons, nets, silks and crepes, making a comeback in bridal wear this season. For Kolkata-based designer Simran Singh, a “balance” between garments and accessories adds a certain charm to the whole attire. “Keep the accessories minimal and there should be a balance between garments and accessories. Either one can go for a heavy neckpiece or a nice pair of earrings. Also one can go for elaborate mang tikkas and big kaliras and bajubandh. Brides, please avoid handbags and heavy dupattas on the head,” Singh cautions.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2012

HAIR & MAKE-UP

Less is More Overdone make-up is the perfect recipe for disaster. Keep it light and simple... SHILPA RAINA, NEW DELHI

Smokey eye make-up is the hottest trend this season. For hair, go for colors like mahogany and chestnut. Hair streaking is also another hot favorite.

ooking her best on her wedding day is every girl’s dream — but not at the cost of her glowing skin. Less is more this season as to-be-brides are ready to make a statement with minimalist make-up that includes a dash of bright lipstick and smoky eyes. Gone are the days when girls used to hide under layers of foundation and blush-ons. The simple yet trendy route is what they are taking now because looking fair is not their mantra of looking good — flaunting glowing skin and being comfortable in it is what they want. “Today’s brides are quite experimental with make-up. They prefer loud eye make-up like smokey eyes instead of the basic bridal make-up. They proudly wear bright lip colors and carry it off pretty well,” says Moumita Das, technical consultant for make-up and hair at Mumbai’s Enrich Salon. “Also, nice elongated eyeliners that give the 1960s’ look, curled lashes and a touch of foundation give a natural and not caked-up look,” she adds. Neutral or pale lip colors are not apt for wedding photos. Girls brighten it up with brighter shades, but smartly. In fact, the girls are happy to flaunt their skin tone without worrying about their complexions. “Girls these days want to have flawless and radiant skin; it is not about looking fair any more. The focus is more on getting the eye make-up right and looking beautiful,” says Reeta Juneja of New Delhi’s Vedic Spa Mantra and Salon. There are several instances when too much make-up has ruined a bride’s big day. Mehek Arora recalls the nightmare she experienced on her wedding reception day. “I was wearing a green sari and my beautician applied a lot of foundation

on my face — the worst was that she applied green and yellow eyeshadow. The thick layer of foundation with wild makeup made me look worse. I looked nothing less than a disaster. My foundation dried up and it was a nightmare,” she recalls. To avoid such a situation, Das suggests keeping skin type and weather conditions in mind before readying for the Dday. Whatever little is being used should be used accordingly. “It is very important to know the bride’s skin type, texture, complexion, weather condition before one starts with the make-up,” she says. “Weather conditions are also very important. For winters, cream-based products work well. Otherwise the base will start cracking. Also, keep in mind whether the wedding is an indoor/outdoor event and the make-up should be done accordingly,” she warns. A bride’s get-up is incomplete without her hairdo and this has also undergone a sea change. “Today’s brides prefer the contemporary look in terms of their hair style and make-up,” says Juneja. “For hair, colors like mahogany and chestnut are quite popular this season. Streaks in colors of their choice is another great option,” she adds.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2012

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esigner Ritika Bhasin, known for her festive collections, has created a unique range of multi-purpose bridal wear, which has exquisite suits-cumgowns that can be used again and again. “In India, women’s clothing varies widely and is closely related to culture, region and climate. Traditionally, Indian women go for saris, suits and lehengas. The collection conceptualized by me is extremely traditional yet modern. I have come up with exquisite suits-cum-gowns which can be draped either way,” Bhasin says. “Most of the women today prefer wearing gowns-cum-suits for their cocktail parties. Because of the higher garments prices, people don’t want to use them for a different occasion like a birthday, kirtans or karva chauth in the form of suits,” she adds. The collection primarily focusses on ethnic wear for occasions like weddings, festivals, anniversaries,

Gorgeous designs from Ritika Bhasin’s creation

birthday parties, baby showers, inauguration parties and other traditional events. The silhouette varies from suits to saris to lehengas with a lot of intricate sequins, beads and gottapati work. “My aim is to make stylish pieces with Indian motifs, finish, texture, detail and color. A lot of velvet, brocade, chiffons, georgette in red, gold, fuschia and coral have been used. These days a lot of voluminous flowy suits and gowns are in vogue with geometric cuts to maintain the essence of femininity, I decided to add glam, glitz and fashion to the collection,” she says. With the collection, the designer targets young girls. “I have targeted girls in the age group of 25-35 years who don’t want to repeat clothes and for them looking beautiful is value for money,” Bhasin says. The collection is available at the designer’s store at price on request. —IANS/New Delhi

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DESIGNERS’ CLOSET

Heritage weaves for bridal line Jaya Rathore reintroduces embroideries and old folk motifs in contemporary tapestry

olkata-based designer Jaya Rathore, who takes inspiration from traditional Indian art and craft, has once again gone back in time by using heritage weaves and embroideries to prepare her new collection. The designer says her collection bears an inherent heirloom value and are meant for all age groups. “A wedding is an extended celebration with family and friends; so my varied range of beautifully embell-

ished outfits offers dress options to everyone across all age groups. Heritage embroideries, revived techniques and old folk motifs are brought to life in contemporary shapes to befit today’s fashion-conscious people,” she adds. One can find embroidered lehengas teamed with embellished cholis and richly ornate saris in her offering. The high point of her collection are the lehengas, which are heavily embroidered but very light in weight and can be easily carried by

the brides any time. “This technique has been used after extensive research work. I strongly feel that brides often find it uneasy to move around with heavy ghagras so these lehengas will prove to be a nice replacement,” Jaya says. “Maintaining the delicacy of fabrics with an interesting mix of nets along with woven ikat, the collection has been mastered with craftsmanship and textures developed specially for the collection,” she adds. — IANS/New Delhi

Designer Jaya Rathore with models in her bridal collection

Fusion of style & power Pre-bridal by Preeti Ghai

nspired by Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen’s play A Doll’s House, designer Deepika Govind’s new collection at once embodies the fearless and the delicate. Titled A Doll’s House, the collection has three distinct styles — ‘The Warrior Doll’, ‘The Artist Doll’ and ‘The Adventurer Doll’. “The collection is meant for modern women who are valiant, dauntless, notable and inimitably stylish. The collection targets those who belong to different walks of life and never hesitate to experiment with their looks and designs,” Govind says. “The Warrior Doll celebrates the textile and drape traditions of southern Indian. The line complements a fearless and fiercely individualistic personality who are bold and passionate. The Artist Doll is a complete contrast to the Warrior — it lays emphasis on delicate detailing and is dedicated to beauty and elegance. “The Adventurer Doll imitates a free spirited lady, as it embraces a mix of styles, colors and fabrics,” she explains. The Warrior Doll consists of lehengas, saris and kurtas made with organza tissues, kinkab, jamevars, jacquard and intricately woven ikat. The color palate ranges from gold to red. Brocade and organic silks teamed up with vintage prints on the lehengas, saris, kurtas and blouses dominate the Artist Doll collection, which recreates an oldworld charm through a color palette of subdued pastels like green and coral. Finally, ankle-length panelled jackets teamed with floor-grazing skirts, richly endowed with surface detailing comprises The Adventurer Doll. — IANS/New Delhi

reativity and innovation are a must for designers to keep abreast with the times and with this in mind, Preeti Ghai has come up with a pre-bridal collection for those who want to add zeal and glamor to their wedding look. “Fashion for me means an attitude with intrinsic aesthetic value. Each outfit carries a message and a memory and my latest collection epitomizes a new kind of sophistication for today’s selfconscious women,” Ghai said. She has not only experimented with designs, but the color palette is also different from the usual. Ghai’s collection offers stylized saris, lehengas, anarkali suits and lehenga-cum-saris in tones of sea green, turquoise, mauve and magenta. With rustling silk, flowing georgette as well as brocade, cotton and velvet, the designer has created a fusion of Indo-Western collection that boasts of extensive use of digital prints as an embellishment for brides-to-be. Given that Ghai has launched a pre-bridal collection, what is her take on the big event? “Wedding trousseaus are increasingly getting experimental in order to capture the mood of cosmopolitan brides. Keeping this in mind, I have used silhouettes and fabrics that best flatter Indian brides,” says Ghai. The collection will be available at her ‘Amyra’ store in the capital at prices that start at `3,000 and go up to `125,000. — IANS/New Delhi

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2012

GROOM’S CORNER

With love from Pakistan Known for their rich and elegant cuts, top designers from Pakistan bring you an exclusive line of groom’s couture collections. Embroidered sherwanis, kurtas, turbans and shawls in hues of cream, blue, greens, ivory… the choices are aplenty. Have a look at these stunning creations and pick the best for your the wedding of your dreams... Shilpa Raina reports from Lahore A model in Emraan Rajput’s ‘Vedaas’ collection. The collection includes sherwanis, kurtas, turbans and churidars in hues such as coral blue, yellow, golden, rust, white, and beige with heavy use of crystals and embroidery around the neck and the cuffs.

Pakistani actor, singer and model Fawad Afzal Khan in veteran designer Umar Sayeed’s creation. His new sherwani and kurta collection embodies contemporary fusion and showcases some fine embroidery with colorful stones, beads, crystals and zari.

Young designer Ali Xeeshan’s ‘Pahalgam’ collection showcases intricate thread work on bold colors and a dash of sequins. His kurtas are of medium length.

A model flaunts Maria B’s groom wear from her ‘Paris to Lahore’ collection. Her garments are in colors such as beige, light pink and white with fine detailing, reflecting a fusion of western and Pakistani sensibilities.

Nida Azwer’s ‘Awadh’ collection showcases exuberant richness and royalty. In some of her garments, she uses pictorial representations of court scenes and crafts fine Mughal artwork on the fabric using silk thread with bling. Nida uses colors such as red, pink, ivory and antique gold.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2012

PERFECTION

Makeover magic Was this the face that launched a thousand sighs? You can transform your destiny and reign like Cleopatra on the burnished throne…

ip augmentation, nose job, eyebrow lift... You want to put their best ‘face’ forward? You name it… you have it. “A huge range of non-surgical beautification treatments like lip augmentation, eyebrow-lift, cheek augmentation, liposuction and nose job are being offered and girls go for them to look glamorous and sensual,” says Mumbai-based cosmetologist Jamuna Pai, adding that botox and ‘juvederm’ are also on the list. Thanks to changing global lifestyles, there has been a dramatic change in the demand for cosmetic treatments. “To get that perfect look, women are queuing up at clinics for different cosmetic treatments available in the market to enhance their body parts,” K. M. Kapoor said. As far as results are concerned, Kapoor said juvederm treatment has an instantaneous effect. “However, if you go in for botox, the result will be visible within two to five days. So people opt for such treatments a week before special occasions,” he adds. Pai feels the same and says: “From nose or chin correction to a fuller lip with the help of botox to face lifting — everybody wants to attain that perfect look. For example, ahead of Valentine’s Day, we received a large number of women clients. They wanted to get results at the earliest, so they would opt

for healthier and non-surgical treatments like botox and juvederm instead of going under the knife.” Interestingly, women have no hang-ups. “There is no harm in enhancing features by simple techniques like lip enhancements and if you get compliments for your looks, then why not. Going for a botox job once wouldn’t be a wrong choice as you are just trying to look good for your loved one. Moreover, results last for a few months and after that you are back to normal,” says 20year-old Priyanka Rana. Among all the treatments, the full and the plump lips are in vogue, says Pai, adding that, “women feel that well-defined, perfect and curvaceous lips attract a lot of attention, especially men’s.” While such treatments have their benefits, experts say certain things need to be taken care of before going for treatments. “In the case of fillers, people in their early 20s start picking up treatments like lip augmentation, but botox treatments should be used by people in their late 20s,” cautions Kapoor. “Both botox and juvederm are very safe drugs and they hardly cause any side effects, if used in accordance with procedures,” he added. — Nivedita Sharma/New Delhi

A huge range of non-surgical beautification treatments are being offered and girls go for them to look glamorous and sensual — Cosmetologist Jamuna Pai

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2012

PLANNERS

Band, baja, barat in DC! From ‘mandaps’ to ‘ghodis’ to lehenga cholis, these desi wedding planners can arrange it all in the American capital

ndian-Americans, who wish to have their wedding ceremonies done the traditional way, can do so with ‘band, baja and barat’ here in the American capital. Be it the sherwani or the ghodi for the groom, zari-embroidered lehengacholi for the bride, the mandap for the ceremonies, or the horse buggy for the doli — one can get it all from one-stop desi wedding planners. Depending on how much glitter one is looking for, one can get married in the desi style for anything from $1,500 to $60,000, says Ved Mehta, who, with wife Manju

Mehta, has been running one such shop, Shagun Weddings, in the Washington metro area for the last 10 years. “It’s good business, but is tiring as it involves a lot of work,” said Mehta who organizes three-four weddings every week all the year round except during the shradhs. “Yes, lots of people ask for a ghodi, let’s say about 40 percent,” he said. Mehta has three-four vendors on his list who provide the ghodi for the groom. “If the customer wants an elephant, we bring the elephant. If they ask for a helicopter, we can do that too!” “But now the trend is changing,” he said, with more Indians getting married in waterfront hotels and groom’s party arriving by boat. The Mehtas import their basic material from India with Manju

designing the mandaps in various colors and styles. It takes about a couple of months to put the whole show together, but the Mehtas, with a support staff of 10 people do weddings on a short notice, too. Like the Mehtas, Reena Aggarwal, too, gets embroidered material from India and turns them into suits, sarees, and lehengas, stitched to size. The cost: from a few hundred to a couple of thousand dollars. From complete bridal ensembles to gold, silver and costume jewellery to traditional apparel for men and children, her one-stop Reena’s Boutique has everything. And to record it all, there is always Bobby Singh, who offers special wedding packages from $2,000 to $8,000 with fancy albums of digital pictures covering all events, from shagun to mehndi to the wedding ceremony. — Arun Kumar/ Washington

Friday, FRIDAY, February FEBRUARY 24, 24, 2012 2012

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Balaji temple hosts cultural function to observe Mahasivarathri

Balaji temple presented unique classsical and contemporary dance performances

By a staff writer

n the auspicious occasion of Maha Sivarathri 2012, Sri Venkateswara Swami (Balaji) Temple in Aurora, IL, organized spectacular cultural celebrations ‘Shivoham’ on Saturday, Feburary 18th, 2012, at the temple auditorium. “Shivoham” unique classsical and contemporary dance performances by professional teachers of Chicagoland, in the Indian classical dance forms of Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Mohiniyattam and Kathak, were presented in the Veluchamy auditorium. The event began with the beautiful chanting of Siva puja by students of Dr. Hemalatha Burra, a versant Sanskrit scholar and a retired professor from Sri Sathya Sai University. This was followed by the devotional

bhajans of Lord Shiva rendered Chicagoland Bhajan group. Chanting the name of the lord the audience experienced divine vibrations with the bhajan singing coordinated by Sri Gopi Jagarlamudi. Highlighting the evening was a unique presentation on Lord Shiva in Mohiniyattam dance style from the beautiful state of Kerala. Siva Sthuthi was presented by Smt. Sandhya Radhakrishnan, artistic director of Bharatanjali school of dance. ‘‘Ardhanareeshwara” in the ‘Odissi’ dance style was performed by Smt.Ipsitha Satpathy, Director, Utkala Centre for Dance. Vibrant Kuchipudi performances ‘Natesa Kauthvam’ followed by ‘Enneramum’ by Dr.Sangita Rangala, a professional Kuchipudi dancer enthralled the audience. Presenting the grandeur and beauty of the north Indian dance style Kathak - “Shiv

Democratic Party celebrates Presidents’ Day

Prominent Indian community leaders were present at the event (Picture by Asian Media USA)

By a staff writer

h e D e m o c r a t i c Pa r t y o f DuPage County, celebrated Presidents’ Day Gala 2012 with great enthusiasm on Saturday February 18, at 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace, IL. More than 500 people were present at this grand event. Prominent Leaders from the Democratic Party who attended included Gov. Pat Quinn, Bill Foster, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Congressman Mike Quigley, Cook County Board President Tony Preckwinkle, Bob Peickert plus several State Senators and State Representatives and many of the congressional, state and local candidates. The Trustees and Executive Committee Members of the IADO, viz., Dr. Ram Gajjela (President), Dr. Ashish Sen (Vice President), Sainath Reddivari (Secretary), Peter Palaparthi ( Joint Secretary), Lakshmi Lakshmanan (Treasurer), Dr. Mridu Sekhar (Joint Treasurer), Jitendra Diganvker (Directors) were joined by several prominent community leaders from Indian-Pakistani community, CIOGC representatives, Project M representative, AIPHA, Islamic Center of Western Suburbs

and ICNA Chicago representatives. Bob Peickert, chairman of the Democratic Party said “ Operation: Turn DuPage Blue has finally broken the Republican party’s “stranglehold” in our county. It’s exciting to see the election results, but we still have our work cut out for us.” He introduced the keynote speaker Mr. Thom Hartmann, who is the Nation’s #1 Progressive Radio, Talk Show Host - WCPT 820 AM, New York Times Best Seller Author of 22 books and internationally known Speaker on Culture and Communications at this year’s gala. Chairman of the DPDC said “He is an architect of so many of the political grassroots organizing principles you see at work throughout the country today, and he is a tremendously inspiring speaker.” Governor Pat Quinn in his brief address said that he grew up in Dupage County, and wanted to thank everyone because they had elected him in the last election. He said that in 2012 he wanted to make sure that President Obama gets elected for the second term. He specially thanked Bob Peickert, his committee members who supported him, because they worked hard from door to door and making lots of phone calls. Governor Quinn in his speech said that Illinois has created more jobs, expanded early childhood programs, K-12 and special education programs, veterans’ benefits and increased medicaid benefits for Illinois seniors. He pointed out the diversity in Dupage County and the vast presence of various ethnic populations that have made Dupage County their home. He urged everyone to actively participate in the democratic process and work towards community harmony.

Aradhana and Triwat” hailed the blissful and wondrous Lord Siva. The presentation was beautifully rendered by Smt.Gauri Jog, Director of Indian Dance school, and Isha Jog. Yet another unique and dramatic presentation of BharataNatyam’s traditional repertoire in praise of Lord Siva is ‘Amma Anandadayini Varnam’ performed by Bhavya Kumaran and choreographed by Smt.Sowmya Kumaran, Director, Nrithyasangeeth School of dance. C o n t e m p o r a r y p re s e n t a t i o n i n Bharatanatyam dance style ‘OM Shivoham’ by students of Jinoo Varghese created a ton of excitement in the audience. The high energy was highly evident for this item and it was a solid entertainer. Anjal Chande, Director of Soham Dance space offered ‘Prostrations to Lord Shiva’ in contemporary Bharatanatyam dance style. Bringing out the fervour of Mahasivaratri, Smt. Sushmita Arunkumar and students of Nrithyanajali presented ‘Sankara – An Ode

to the Dancing Lord’. This presentation was executed with grace and poise and received very well by the audience. Combining elements of Tandava and Lasya along with talent and synergy, ‘Natanaanadam-The Dance of bliss, with original choreography by Smt. Janaki Anandavalli Nair and presented by the guru and her students, in Kuchipudi dance style, was one of a kind and made a lasting impression among the audience. Stage props with original creations by Ravi Tokala added a beautiful touch to the stage decor. The relentless efforts of the Balaji Temple Cultural committee were appreciated in the vote of thanks delivered by the cultural committee chair, Smt.Usha Pariti. Balaji Temple cultural committee will be hosting a grand bharatanatyam presentation by renowed artist from Chennai, India, Sri A. Lakshman with live orchestra on Saturday March 3rd, 6pm at the temple auditorium.

India Association of St. Louis celebrates Republic Day

The Republic day celebration commenced at 11.00 AM with enthusiastic kids parading with American and Indian flags

By ashwin Patel India Association of St. Louis celebrated India’s 63rd Republic Day on January 28, 2012 at Mahatma Gandhi Center, St Louis. The event was a huge success with a good representation of local Indian community including kids of all ages and also prominent members of the society. The Republic day celebration commenced at 11.00 AM with enthusiastic kids parading with American and Indian flags to the stage where it was hoisted. This was followed by rendition of the American and Indian national anthems by a group of children along with the attendees at the event. The program continued with a welcome address by the President of India Association, Sundar Varanasi who invited the chief guest

Dr. Sudhir Brahmbhatt, President Bal Vihar, to address the gathering. Dr. Brahmbhatt who has contributed immensely towards the local Indian community gave an enlightening and inspiring speech which was very well received by the attendees. This was followed by two youth members of Bal Vihar presenting their views on India’s republic day celebration. The event concluded with refreshments for everyone. India Association also announced its Board of Directors for the year 2012-2013. President- Sundar Varanasi, President Elect- Gayatri Chintakunta, SecretarySundari Nori, Treasurer- VijayaKumar Buddhiraju, Members- Hema Patel, Pradip Das, Girija Kasinadhuni, Radhika Rao, and Paritosh Sheth.

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cinema feature

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2012

CINEMA FEATURE

‘NEED ORIGINAL PLOTS’ ARPANA, NEW DELHI

f movies from India wish to make a mark internationally, they need to have original stories which Western audiences can connect to, says Ashok Amritraj, a successful Hollywood producer. “For me, it is about stories. The question is: ‘What are the ideas?’, says Amritraj in an interview. His latest production, Ghost Rider: Spirit Of Vengeance, is releasing in India. “It has to be something that has international appeal. So far, there have been two movies like that — Gandhi and Slumdog Millionaire. I look for stories that our Western viewers feel connected to,” he says. “There are movies made around the world and the audiences connect to them. It does not matter where they are made and in what language. People connect to the story. So it is a matter of finding screenplays or stories with an Indian feel that can move across to the Western world as well. I am not making the film only for India,” he says. In his 31-year stint in Hollywood, Amritraj has produced more than 100 films under his banner, Hyde Park Entertainment. He says he is ready to coproduce films with Indian studios. “It is a question of finding interesting stories. In India, we have so many stories. But we have to work on the story to give it a larger market.”

“The great thing about Hollywood is that it always makes different kinds of movies — you had Lawrence of Arabia, The Sound of Music, and also Chariots of Fire, Gandhi and Forrest Gump. It is one thing that has always excited me. In the last two years, we had Black Swan, The King’s Speech and this year it is The Descendants,” he says. “It is nice to see that Indian filmmakers are making different kinds of movies. This

credit. A feature film is a medium that starts from a screenplay. It is difficult to create on the page. If it is on the page, it is easier to put it on the screen.” So, do Indian films need original stories to grow? “I think so because you have terrific actors, directors, excellent cameramen and designers. Of course, the way of storytelling is a little different. I think Hollywood and the Indian film industry are on parallel

Hollywood and the Indian film industry are on parallel tracks — Hollywood is photo real, while India has a more elevated sense of what an audience would like to see — Ashok Amritraj means that the audience is growing and is getting used to the changes,” he says. On why Indian film-makers fail to make a mark in the West, he says: “I think a lot of it has to do with not having an original story — something that needs to be worked on. The most important person should be the writer.” “Stars are wonderful; directors are terrific; but way too much attention is paid to them. I think writers should be paid more money and more

tracks — Hollywood is photo real, while India has a little more elevated sense of what an audience would like to see,” he says. On Ghost Rider, he says: “India is not the biggest market for Hollywood. India is clearly dominated by Indian films. But the market has grown significantly in the last 10 years.” And to tap this market, Amritraj is releasing Ghost Rider in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu and Malayalam, too.

POLITICIANS’ KIDS DO FILMS RADHIKA BHIRANI NEW DELHI

how business seems to have become the new career for the children of Indian politicians. The latest entrant is Ajith Antony, India’s Defense Minister A.K. Antony’s son. He is set to act in a Malayalam film. Before him, the film and

the one they grew up in. Ajith, 22, is set for his big screen debut in Aji John’s Oberoi. Ajith has even written the film's screenplay. Riteish, son of former Maharashtra Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh, is so far the most popular among the lot. He did his first film, Tujhe Meri Kasam, in 2003, and today is a sought-after actor. Arunoday, grandson of the late Congress leader Arjun Singh, was always unconventional. Despite his political lineage, he entered cinema, doing different roles in Sikandar, Aisha, Mirch and Yeh Saali Zindagi. “I have

Entry into politics would have been easy for Chirag. But he decided to first challenge himself in show business. He knows he would have to eventually enter politics TV industry had lured many youngsters from political families — Riteish Deshmukh, Arunoday Singh, Chirag Paswan and Rahul Mahajan. They are all trying to carve out a niche for themselves in a world different from (Anti-clockwise) Riteish Deshmukh, Arunoday Singh, Rahul Mahajan and Chirag Paswan

always been interested in acting. I have been doing theatre since my school days. I am not interested in politics. There is enough politics in Bollywood,” says Arunoday. His family too has been supportive of his decision to do films, just like the father of Chirag, Ram Vilas Paswan, the chief of Lok Janshakti Party.

Entry into politics would have been easy for Chirag. But the young man decided to first challenge himself in show business. He knows he would have to eventually enter politics. “Politics excites me. I cannot say no to politics because I have been born and brought up in that atmosphere. Politics flows in my blood. I have actively campaigned for and with my father. So, later in life, I know I will walk that path. Eventually, I know I will give in to politics. But for now, movies are my priority,” he says. Another name on the list is Rahul Mahajan. The son of the late Bharatiya Janata Party leader Pramod Mahajan, Rahul has been making news for all the wrong reasons, but the entertainer streak in him has not gone unnoticed. His brush with reality show Bigg Boss-2 in 2008 won him wide popularity despite accusations of him being a wife-beater and drug user. After this, he decided to get married, on a reality show. Then there is Congress leader Jagdish Tytler’s son Siddartha, who is a fashion designer, and the daughters of another Congress leader Renuka Chaudhary, one of who is a model and another a film-maker.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2012

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cinema news

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2012

CINEMA NEWS

IRRFAN ON THE RUN...

The actor plays the lead role in a biopic on bandit Paan Singh Tomar films are being made, they were Madhya Pradesh. I didn’t have to more interested in talking about learn to use the gun as my father ctor Irrfan Khan, who themselves. There are some who had already taught me about it,” plays the lead in a even asked for money to talk. So said the actor. Directed by Tigbiopic on Paan Singh research took a lot of time,” manshu Dhulia, Paan Singh Tomar, a former added the 49-year-old. Tomar releases on March 2 and Irrfan himself had to go also features Mahie Gill. national steeplechase championturned-bandit, says some former through rigorous physical trainIrrfan Khan is also part of athletes asked for money to talk ing for the role, based on the life upcoming American film The of the man, who ultimately left Amazing Spider-Man. The actor about the runner. Since the research material on the army and took the track to says that it is his work that has Paan Singh Tomar for the film of become a bandit. helped him in getting interna“Once the script was written, I tional projects and not any public the same name was limited, filmmaker Tigmanshu Dhulia had to had to train myself for steeple- relation (PR) work. “It just hapapproach former athletes for chase under national coach Satpal pened. I still don’t have a PR. Singh. I had to learn the dialect of International films didn’t come to more information on him. “Research was tough as there was nothing on internet about Once the script was written, I had him. He had set the national to train myself for steeplechase record twice. Despite this, there were no records of him and I fail under national coach Satpal Singh. to understand why,” said Irrfan. “Tigmanshu and his writers I had to learn the dialect of went out to research about Paan Madhya Pradesh — Actor Irrfan Khan Singh but people were not ready to talk about him. There are some athletes on whom me because of PRs. It came to me because of my work. It came to me because I was destined to work there,” Irrfan said. The 49-year-old IANS, MUMBAI

Irrfan Khan on a poster of Paan Singh Tomar

10 A T O P

became a known name in the international film circuit with his first ever full-fledged movie role in Asif Kapadia’s The Warrior. When the 2001 film was shown at the international film festivals, it helped Irrfan carved a niche for himself. In 2003, he again impressed the global audience with writerdirector Asvin Kumar’s short film Road to Ladakh and earned rave reviews for his performance in the 2003 release. “My limitation is that I don’t know how to do my PR (promote) myself. As an actor, you must know how to do your PR, which I consider as my limitation. When I tried to work on it, it didn’t work for me,” said the actor who also featured in several international projects — A Mighty Heart, The Darjeeling Limited and American HBO show In Treatment. Then came the Oscar winning film Slumdog Millionaire, in which he played a police officer. Post the huge success of Slumdog Millionaire, Irrfan bagged director Marc Webb’s superhero film The Amazing Spider-Man, based on the comic book of the same name. “It was wonderful working with Marc Webb in the film. He is a fabulous director,” said Irrfan, who will be seen as Dr. Ratha in the movie. Irfan said he didn’t have to rely on the box office to bag films. His performance justifies the character, which helps him get the films.

Saif leaves a Mumbai police station on February 22.

SAIF FREED ON BAIL IN MID-NIGHT BRAWL CASE NEW DELHI: Actor Saif Ali Khan was arrested on February 22 evening with two others — Shakeel Ladak and Bilal Amrohi — for assaulting Iqbal Sharma, an Indian-origin businessman from South Africa, in the wee hours of February 22 at the Taj Mahal Hotel. The trio was released on bail after being interrogated. Saif, however, rues that media is being partial in reporting about the incident. “Media is being partial in reporting about the incident. I was hit first. They misbehaved with us and even used abusive language. I have also lodged a complaint and the matter is in court so I request media not to give any biased report until court’s decision comes,” he added. Sharma claimed that Saif called him an “idiot” for complaining about the actor’s loud conduct at a restaurant in the Taj Mahal Hotel. — IANS

PLAGIARISM: RELIEF FOR JODI BREAKERS MUMBAI: Jodi Breakers has been exonerated from charges of plagiarism levelled by the producers of the French film Heartbreakers, which was said to have inspired the Hindi movie releasing on February 24. Apparently, the lawyers appointed by the producers of Heartbreakers saw Jodi Breakers, which has Bipasha Basu and R. Madhavan in the lead roles, and came to the conclusion that there were no overt similarities between the two films. Sounding relieved, the film’s director Ashwini Chaudhary said: “Their lawyers have concluded that there are no similarities between their film and ours. The fact that they came to this conclusion comes as no surprise to me.” — IANS

A SOGGY LOVE STORY Film: “Ekk Deewana Tha”; Starring: Prateik, Amy Jackson; Directed by: Amy Jackson; Rating: ***

1. Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu 2. Ek Deewana Tha 3. Agneepath 4. Valentine’s Night 5. Gali Gali Chor Hai 6. Love You To Death 7. Ghost 8. Chaalis Chauraasi 9. Players 10. Sadda Adda

master storyteller, Gautham Menon locates his story right in his leading man Prateik’s heart. The gentle actor carries off the role of the love-struck adamant Romeo in Ek Deewana Tha with a more than a fair amount of earnest passion, bringing to his character a landscape of longing desire, bitterness and finally satisfaction in love. The initial scenes, where the modern-day Romeo Sachin (Prateik) tails his landlord’s daughter (stilted newcomer Amy Jackson), provoke interest. The mo’bike, the furtive glances... the

movie sneaks together. It’s all done with a warm splendor that covers a range from the sly to the tender. A.R. Rahman’s music is used for a number of dance pieces where Prateik uses his newlyenhanced body language to show us what love can do to an ordinary regular guy aspiring to be a idulgently-edited love story is filmmaker under the tutelage of, that it takes a very long time to ahem, Ramesh Sippy who at get to the point. The journey in Ek Deewana some point spews this wisdom on the lovelorn Sachin: “First Tha is not as bracing as in solve your heart problem then K. Balachander’s Ek Duuje Ke get back to work.” Liye or Mani Ratnam’s Saathiya. The trouble with this elegant- But there are many nerve-points ly-packaged but somewhat self- in the storytelling that pinches

the pulse of the core emotion. It’s the details that both nourish and diminish the film’s impact. Menon takes us through the various levels in the relationship in excruciating detail leaving nothing and yet everything to chance. The screenplay also makes room for plenty of quirky coincidences that make for a star-crossed love affair. The couple’s love reaches a point where there is no denouement to heir story in sight. And then Menon pulls back. In a lengthy monologue toward the end, the entire relationship unravels and comes undone in a twirl and torrent of emotions. Like Prateik’s courtship, this film is labor of love. Problem is, the going gets laborious after — Subhash K. Jha a point.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2012

south cinema

SOUTH CINEMA

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2012

MINISTER’S SON TURNS ACTOR Ajith Antony, the younger son of India’s Defense Minister, has written the script of ‘Oberoi’ and will also star in it

FILM REVIEW | TELEGU

IANS, THIRUVANANTHAPURAM

jith Antony, the younger son of India’s Defense Minister A.K. Antony, has decided to try his luck in films. His debut movie, Oberoi, will go on the floors in August. The film’s director Aji John said the script for the film’s Malayalam version is ready. A Tamil script would be the next, he said. “We can start shooting in August. Some more things have to fall in place. We want to shoot simultaneously in Malayalam and Tamil,” John said. Ajith, 22, is a graduate in English from St. Stephen’s College in New Delhi. The dialogues of the Malayalam film have been written by Anoop Menon and the Malayalam version would be distributed by Marikar Films. “The script of the Malayalam version has been penned by Ajith himself since the story was his own. The photo session of the film was completed in Goa,” said John. The film tells the tale of two North Indian families who are rivals in business. John says that “Ajith is the leading star” but he refused to reveal about other cast members, saying: “Please allow us to retain a bit of suspense as the star cast is being finalised.” John is currently looking for location for his forthcoming film Namaku Parkkan. “Oberoi shooting will begin only after I complete my present film and the release of Ajith’s film is expected only next year,” said John.

RICH IN VISUALS, POOR IN CONTENT Film: Muppozhudhum Un Karpanaigal; Cast: Atharva Murali, Amala Paul, Nasser, Anupama, Jayaprakash and Santhanam; Producer-Dierctor: Elred Kumar; Composer: G.V. Prakash Kumar; Cinematographer: Sakthi; Editor: Antony C. Ruban; Rating: **1/2

lred Kumar’s Muppozhudhum Un Karpanaigal is neither romantic nor thrilling. The movie opens with an unbelievable action sequence before going into the mode of a sweet love story. The beginning is good but the film looses its grip as it moves. There are unexpected twists and turns but they are not good enough to engage the viewer. After some ups and downs, the film looks predictable and ultimately disappoints. Ram (Atharva) is an IT engineer in Chennai. He spends his weekends with his girlfriend Charu (Amala) in Bangalore. One day, Lata (Amala), the new CEO of Ram’s company, returns from the U.S. A few weeks before her wedding, she meets Ram and claims she knows him, but Ram treats her like a stranger. One day, the car Ram and Lata are travelling in meets with an accident and the mystery is

resolved. Physchiatrist (Jayaprakash) says Ram has ‘motivational delusion’. He imagines Charu lives with him while there is no such person. Muppozhudhum Un Karpanaigal has been shot lavishly in exotic locales. Sadly, Kumar lost the grip on the script, which lacks logic and coherence. The director has got many things wrong. The events move in a hurried manner. The suspense is missing. The physiological angle has been handled indifferently. But the lead actors have given their best. Atharva has improved. He scores in romantic and serious sequences. Amala gets a meaty character and does justice to it. Jayaprakash and Nasser do their jobs well. Santhanam fails to impress. Cinematography by Sakthi is good. G.V.Prakash has given some peppy music besides effective background score. — Aravindan D.I.

accents. Also, the night sequences look too dark. In the film, Arjun, who works in a hospital, gives more importance to human values and offers free treatment to needy patients. But for dean Malpani, his hospital is a money-making machine. Tomboyish Moni, who loves Arjun, is in the habit of landing up

younger don feels his brother is not dead and is being treated in the hospital. The ensuing confusions and how Arjun will cure all the children affected with heart ailments forms the rest of the story. Ramesh infuses a lot of energy into his role. Raju Thalkote plays the younger don to perfection.

FILM REVIEW | KANNADA

COMEDY WITH A MESSAGE Film: Nammanna Don; Cast: Ramesh Arvind, Mona Parasher, Santhini, Raju Thalikote, Neenasam Achyutha, M.S. Umesh, Rajendra, and Karanth; Producer; Ravi Joshi; Screenplay Writer-Director: Ramesh Arvind; Composer: Mathews Manu; Camera: Krishna Kumar; Rating: ***

ammanna Don is actor Ramesh Arvind’s fifth directorial venture and it boasts of an interesting narrative, which unfolds through several twists in the screenplay. The actor-director, who received flak for his last film, has worked hard on the script to deliver a credible film. Despite its predictability, Nammanna Don is a winner because of its breezy narration. The film has comedy as well as emotional sequences. All elements make Nammanna Don a sensible, touching yet entertaining film with lots of humor.

The emotional angle in the story talks about taking care of poor and needy children. Ramesh has excelled in directing slapstick comedies, but with Nammanna Don, he treads a new path by conveying a message that human values are more important than accumulating wealth. He uses comedy to narrate the film in a convincing manner. Coming to the flaws. The two dons, who are brothers and have been brought up together, speak in different

Despite its predictability, Nammanna Don is a winner because of its breezy narration. The film has comedy as well as emotions in trouble. Her brother, who works in another hospital, is jealous of Arjun’s popularity. Meanwhile, Moni tries to stop a don from hitting a policeman. But in the scuffle, the don meets with an accident and dies. Many comical scenes follow the accident after which the body lands up in Malpani’s hospital. The

Rajendra Karanth effectively portrays his role. Mona Parasher impresses in her debut film, while Santhini fits into her role. Veteran Neenasam Achyutha also fits into the role. Mathews Manu’s score and Krishna Kumar’s camera work is good. Editor Soundar’s work is crisp. — V.S. Rajapur

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2012

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2012

sport

SPORTS

INDIA BEAT ITALY 8-1

Women’s team defeats Canada 4-1 in must-win game; India dominated the game right from the start ABHISHEK ROY, NEW DELHI

OLYMPIC QUALIFIERS

ndian men’s hockey team thrashed Italy 8-1, while the women churned out a much improved performance to beat Canada 4-1 in their second match of the 2012 London Olympics qualifiers at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi on February 19. The men’s team, ranked World No. 10 followed up their 15-1 win over Singapore with another dominating performance against the Italians, who are ranked 28th in the FIH rankings. India are on top of the group in the men’s event with six points and have scored 23 goals in just two games. The hosts were clinical in their approach right from the start and coach Michael Nobbs was visibly pleased to see his boys converting four of the five penalty corners they earned. Penalty corner specialist Sandeep Singh was on target thrice (3rd, 21st and 23rd) while the other drag-flicker V. Raghunath converted the second penalty corner in the 11th minute. S.V. Sunil struck twice (30th, 38th) while Gurwinder Singh Chandi (31st) and Shivendra Singh (52nd) scored a goal apiece. While India made the most of the opportunities from the penalty corners, they also scored some well executed field goals, which were a delight to watch. Italy scored their solitary goal

Gurwinder Singh Chandi (right) dribbling past Jacopo Lunetta of Italy during the FIH London 2012 Olympic Hockey qualifying tournament at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi on February 19. — AFP

Italy scored their solitary goal early on in the 16th minute through Alessandro Nani from an indirect penalty corner, but India dominated the proceedings early on in the 16th minute through Alessandro Nani from an indirect penalty corner but mostly it was one-way-traffic, with India dominating the proceedings. Earlier in the evening, the Indian women’s hockey team churned out a much improved performance to beat Canada 4-1. After being held

1-1 by low-ranked Ukraine in their opening match, World No.13 India were in the attacking mode right from the start and led 3-0 by the half-time against Canada, who are 20th in the FIH rankings. Having drawn their opening matches, both India and Canada faced a must-win situation to stay

Indian players celebrate a goal during the women’s field hockey match against Canada in the FIH London 2012 Olympic Hockey qualifying tournament at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi. — AFP

alive in the competition. India, Devi Thokchom completed the however, never looked under score line in the 49th minute from a pressure and dominated the Canadi- field goal. Hannah Haughin struck ans with their free-flowing attack. the lone goal for Canada in the last Soundarya Yendala gave India the minute from a goalmouth melee. The Indian half-line was impreslead in the 16th minute deflecting in an indirect penalty corner from sive with Vandana Katariya and skipper Asanta Lakra. Three Deepika Thakur orchestrating the minutes later, Rani Rampaul moves. Yendala Soundarya and doubled the lead as she dribbled Jasjeet Kaur Handa also combined into the D from a free-hit and went well up-front to keep the Canadian past three defenders to sound the defenders busy. India’s attacking game earned them six penalty board from a baseline hit. Sushila Chanu added the third in corners in the first half and they the 29th minute from an indirect continued the second-half in the penalty corner while Anduradha same breath.

ARCHERS BAG MEDALS IANS, KOLKATA

ndia won the men’s compound team title to top the medal chart with a rich haul of four gold, five silver and two bronze as the first Asian Grand Prix archery tournament ended in Bangkok on February 19. The men’s compound team

medals. Indian men’s compound trio won against Korea 236-224 in the semi-finals. The compound women’s team (Jhano Hansdah, Gagandeep Kaur and Manjudha Soy) lost to the eventual winner Thailand in the semi-finals 217-221. The Indians, however, went on to win the bronze medal out-shooting Hong Kong

The men’s compound team beat Hong Kong in Asian Grand Prix archery tournament final (Rajat Chauhan, Ritul Chatterjee and Ch. Jignas) won in the final defeating Hong Kong 224-211. This ensured a sweep for the Indians in the compound category with three gold metals. Earlier, India’s Jignas won the individual and Rajat and Jhano Hansdah took the mixed team gold

227-215. India’s full strength recurve teams failed in the final of the men’s and women’s team events. Deepika Kumari, Chekrovolu Swuro and L. Bombayla Devi, who will represent India in the women’s recurve at the London Olympics, suffered a defeat from China by a slender 211-213 margin.

WINTER’S A SPORT IN SOLANG VALLEY northwest of the popular hill resort of Manali in the state of Himachal nuggled between the Beas Pradesh, is fast turning into a popKund and Solang village, at ular destination for skiers. As snow begins to cover the pican altitude of over 8,000 feet, sits the Solang Valley — India’s turesque valley, tourists from across newest destination for adventure the country and abroad throng this sports. The Himalayan ranges and place for skiing, snowboarding and the powdery snow of the valley sliding. “Conditions here are perprovide the perfect setting for fect for winter sports. Himachal is adventure sport enthusiasts to revel becoming a hub of adventure sport every year. Winter sports in India is in the country. However, there needs to be dedicated space for difno longer confined to Kashmir. The valley, which is 13 km ferent events. The slopes are a little SANTOSH RAO, MANALI

bumpy but the standards will improve,” says Shiva Keshavan, 30, India’s new star adventure sportsman and a native of Manali. The Solang valley also hosted a first-of-its-kind skiing event, the Alpine Premier League, in February. Over 350 skiers participated. There were teams from Uttarakhand and Jammu & Kashmir; 24 competitors were from abroad. But the Indian Army skiers dominated the tournament, winning most of the medals.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2012

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x FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2012

LIFESTYLE

AGE NO BAR The participants were only identified by their batch numow age is not an bers, as they sat on red plastic impediment for chairs in a room. While the those seeking com- male participants seemed to be panionship in old excited, the female participants age, proves a programme orga- showed less emotions and most nized by an Ahmedabad-based of them were also interested in NGO, which held the first ever marriage. The women participants also live-in relationship meet for elderly people in Bhopal on Feb- did not want to talk about the ruary 20, during which at least issue in the media. Among the 15 women who five elderly couples agreed to enter into a live-in relationship. attended the meet, three were Earlier, such an event was Muslims, very much in burqas. On the skewed sex ratio at held in Ahmedabad where it the live-in meet, Natubhai of was reasonably successful. The Bhopal live-in relation- VMAS said, “It has been our ship meet was attended by 120 past experience that for every men and 15 women aged 100 men, only ten women turn between 50 and 83 years, up. Have a heart, may the best according to Vina Mulya man win.” Amulya Seva (VMAS), the “To counter the shortfall, the organizer of the event that was organizers provide free-air tickheld at A Gem School in the ets and lodging for the women,” added Natubhai. city. Some elders who had come Before the participants went ahead looking for a match, they to attend the meet, however, were asked to register them- did not get registered. “This is a new concept for selves and provide their basic details, such as, their monthly us. If we feel that there is someincome and whether they were thing for us, we will certainly register ourselves,” said R.K. living with family or alone. Interestingly, in the column Sharma, a retired government about whether or not they official. believed in live-in relationAmongst the onlookers were ships, most men said “Yes” couples in their mid-40s and while most women said “No”. some teenagers. IANS, BHOPAL

LIFE STYLE

As degrading family values force elders to live lonely lives, live-in relationships can be a way forward

“We are here looking for a suitable match for a family member. That is all we can reveal,” said a participant at the meet, requesting anonymity. According to the organizers, degrading family values have forced elders to live lonely lives. Therefore, such meetings have become significant. A few days ahead of the program, some organizations had demanded that the event be not held in Bhopal as it was the Indian “against culture”. V.K. Naswa, a resident of Bhopal, even wrote to the district collector, the director general of state police and the state women’s commission, asking them to ban the event in the city. However, Naswa later said that he would not oppose it and that it was for the government and the administration to decide on it. However, the meet was organized without any opposition from the government. “I do not think of it as any cultural influence. I find it a unique way of The Bhopal live-in relationship meet was attended by 120 overcoming loneliness in old age,” said 76-year-old men and 15 women aged between 50 and 83 years, says S.P. Agarwal about the Vina Mulya Amulya Seva, the organizer of the event event.

AZERA RAHMAN, NEW DELHI

ike most people on social networking sites, 27-year-old Aditya Yadav’s profile is an active one, with a regular flow of messages and photographs. The only difference is he is no more in this world. For his family and friends though, this is a desperate attempt to keep his memories ‘alive’. Psychologists say beyond three to six months, such a practice could indicate depression, but sites like Facebook and Orkut abound with such accounts. The only son of his parents, Yadav was an IT professional in Delhi who met with a fatal bike accident on his way home from work. His sudden death put the family in a state of shock. “Bhaiyya (brother) was a person you would like instantly, after the very first meeting. His laughter was infectious, he was lovable and empathetic,” said his sister Shruti. “His death was untimely. We could not come to terms with it for a long time. When I visited his social networking profile, I found a barrage of ‘miss you’ messages from his friends, as if they could still connect to him,” she added. Thus, over the past one year, Shruti has been updating her broth-

LIVING EVER AFTER When someone loses a dear one, the bereavement period is usually 3-6 months. But if it extends beyond that then such a person needs help er’s profile — even accepting friend requests on his behalf. For 28-year-old Malini Sharma, the live profile of her late husband,

Pawan, is now her companion in difficult times. “Pawan and I were childhood sweethearts and after a courtship of nine years, we got mar-

ried two years back. However, fate had a cruel plan for us... we met with a car accident last year,” said Sharma.

“He was my best friend. The only thing that still makes me feel that he is around is his profile on a networking site. When I miss him, I write to him. It feels as if he can hear me,” Malini said. “Miss you darling. You will always be in our thoughts,” read a message on late Gunjan Shah’s wall. Her best friend, Ramya, posts on the late 20-year-old’s wall regularly. “Some say that I need to move on. But Gunjan used to always say how sad it was that a loved one’s memory fades away in time after their death, and I will not let that happen to her,” she added. While heart-rending it is, doctors say such a trend could be a sign of depression, and the person may need help. “One needs to be careful about such behavior. When someone loses a dear one, the accepted period of bereavement is three to six months when the person tries to cope with the loss. But beyond that it’s dangerous,” said Rachna Singh, a lifestyle management expert at the Artemis Health Institute in Gurgaon. According to psychologist Samira Verma, beyond a certain period, others should step in and help such people accept the loss. It is equally important to allow them the space to grieve.

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LIFESTYLE

TEA FOR HEART Drinking 3 cups a day can keep heart attacks & diabetes away IANS, LONDON

hile many of us may remain undecided about how much is too much for us when it comes to the daily consumption of tea, researchers have claimed drinking three cups of tea a day could help us keep the heart attacks and Type-2 diabetes at bay. A review shows regular drinking of tea, with or without milk, can reduce the risk of heart problems by cutting levels of bad cholesterol and blood sugar, Daily Mail reported. As per experts, the benefits of tea are largely due to the flavonoid content — antioxidant ingredients that counteract cardiovascular disease. One cup of tea provides 150-200mg of flavonoids and it is the best source of antioxidants in the diet.

Drinking three or more cups of black tea packs a powerful punch black tea a day protects against with many health benefits particuheart disease and two or more larly for the heart. And recent studcups a day may protect against ies show that the flavonoids work Type-2 diabetes, a review in the their magic whether or not we journal Nutrition Bulletin found. choose to add milk.” In addition, a 12-week study of Nutritionist Carrie Ruxton, coauthor of the latest review and a 87 volunteers showed how drink-

With its antioxidant flavonoids, black tea packs a powerful punch with many health benefits, particularly for the heart — Carrie Ruxton, Nutritionist member of the industry-backed Tea Advisory Panel (TAP), said: “There is far more to the nation’s favourite drink than we realise. “With its antioxidant flavonoids,

ing three cups of tea a day produced a significant improvement in various cardiovascular risk factors. Flavonoids found in tea are thought to control inflammation, reduce excess blood clotting, promote blood vessel function and limit furring up of the arteries.

LIFE STYLE

GEL TO HEAL DAMAGED HEARTS WASHINGTON: A new injectable hydrogel could safely and effectively heal any damage caused by heart attacks and help minimize invasive surgeries. The hydrogel would open a new line of treatment for heart attacks, with the U.S. alone reporting 785,000 new cases every year, with no established treatment for repairing the resulting damage to cardiac tissue. The hydrogel is made from cardiac connective tissue that is stripped of heart muscle cells through a cleansing process, freeze-dried and milled into powder form, and then liquefied into a fluid that can be easily injected into the heart, the Journal of the American College of Cardiology reports. Once it hits body temperature, the liquid turns into a semi-solid, porous gel that encourages cells to repopulate areas of damaged cardiac tissue and to preserve heart function, says Karen

Christman, professor of bioengineering at the University of California, San Diego, who headed the study. The hydrogel forms a scaffold to repair the tissue and possibly provides biochemical signals that prevent further deterioration in the surrounding tissues, according to a California statement. What is more, the researchers’ experiments show that the gel also can be injected through a catheter, a method that is minimally invasive and does not require surgery or general anesthesia.

MICROBES OF GOOD HEALTH LONDON: Probiotics are microorganisms known to promote health, but only some are able to survive the harsh environment of the human digestive tract. For instance, the Lactobacillius strains showed the highest survival rate in the model digestive system, which mimics the human digestive system, developed by a team from the Norwegian University of Life Sciences, as compared to other strains of probiotic microbes. They also found that some of these strains survive better when consumed as fermented milks, the Journal of Dairy Science reported. The initial testing

found that Lactobacillus strains had a significantly higher acid tolerance than the Lactococcius strains and Enterococcus hirae, said researchers. “We wanted to evaluate whether these strains have the potential as probiotics for human consumption,” explains lead investigator Siv Skeie, professor of chemistry, biotechnology, and food Sciences at Norway University. Researchers tested five Lactococcus bacteria strains, found in ropy milks, said to have beneficial effects on consumer health, as well as three Lactobacillus strains, and one strain of Enterococcus hirae.

24 - March 2 Your week ahead... Fabruary (February 24-March 1)

Aries

Don’t overreact if your partner has a poor attitude. You might find it difficult to control your emotions. Risky financial ventures will result in unrecoverable losses. Your sensitivity toward those you love will capture their hearts.

Taurus

Emotional matters may not be easy for you to handle. Try not to lend or borrow money or belongings this week. You can get a promotion if you put in a little extra detail. Try to avoid being extravagant this week. Overindulgent people will cause disruptions in your life.

Gemini

Use your creative abilities to come up with new ideas and directions. Your contributions will be valued and helpful. Discuss your problems and complaints if you wish to rectify them. Your input into their activities will help bring you closer together.

Cancer

Question your mate if you must. Take a look at investment opportunities. If you are in the midst of a financial deal, this is your lucky day. You have two choices: Get out on your own, or bend to your mate’s whims.

Leo

Changes in your home will be positive. You will find that money could slip through your fingers. Someone you live with could be frustrated and upset. You have more energy than the rest of the people you live with anyway. Your lucky day this week will be Tuesday.

Virgo

Travel should be on your mind. Travel will turn out to be far more exciting than you imagined. Don’t let relatives get the better of you. Your sensitive, affectionate nature will capture the heart of anyone you are attracted to. You are best to work at home.

Libra

Don’t make accusations unless you are completely sure that you are correct. Make arrangements to spend quality time together. Don’t get involved in expensive entertainment that involves gambling.

Scorpion

You can travel for business or pleasure. Your intellectual charm will entice new love interests. You may have a problem with someone you live with if you don’t include them in your gathering. You can make excellent career moves if you are open to the opportunities that exist.

Sagittarius

Use your inventiveness to find solutions. Unexpected bills may set you back. Try to keep a low profile. Talk to superiors about problems that you feel are getting out of hand. Your home environment may be hectic, which could result in upsetting you emotionally.

Capricorn

Chronic health problems are likely to surface if you are keeping your problems locked up inside. Don’t share your dilemma with those you work with. You will meet potential new mates through friends or relatives.

Aquarius

Your hypnotic eyes will capture the hearts of those who interest you. Misunderstandings at work could easily lead to problems. Don’t be too quick to judge those you live with. This is a turning point. Channel your energy into projects that will enhance your home.

Pisces

Beware of colleagues who don’t have your best interests in mind. Your health may have suffered due to neglect or abuse. You need some help this week. Financial limitations will not be as adverse as they appear. — Michael Thiessen

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2012

Turning Dreams into Reality