FWD Life July 2012

ISSue 09 VoL 01 JuLY 2012 ` 50 www.fwdlife.in

Bhavana

mollywood's busy bee

Anu Hasan debut in malayalam

ritu Kumar fAshion

fashion's ďŹ rst lady

Hollywood in desi avatar Actors of Indian origin making their presence felt in world cinema

ViJAy PRAKASH | tech-A-BreAK | soBhA CITY

2012 JULY

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ISSUE 09 VOL 01 JULY 2012 ` 50 www.fwdlife.in

Bhavana

Mollywood's busy bee

Anu Hasan Debut in Malayalam

Ritu Kumar FASHION

Fashion's first lady

Hollywood in desi avatar Actors of Indian origin making their presence felt in world cinema

VIJAY PRAKASH | TECH-A-BREAK | SOBHA CITY

2012 JULY

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NEW WAVES

C

hanges in FWD Life are continuing.

We have closed the entries for the successful Monsoon Brides contest. The winner will be announced soon.

Everybody here is waiting to see the results and the following feature of our major reader interactive contest. There is a reason for that. Wedding photographer Anup J Kat and his totally refreshing perspective on wedding photography has really been inspirational.

Other major change is an attempt to look at Hollywood’s Indian links; with a more pan Indian perspective. The Bond cars over the years were complied by an enthusiastic young writer; so the readers will get to more of such compilations. The ever beautiful and bubbly Bhavana’s photo shoot was loads of fun, hoping to see her Bollywood debut soon. The day spent with Anu Hasan was really an eye opener, her ability to include everyone in the conversation and the amount of energy she brings in to the group was unbelievable. Also read about Ritu Kumar, the person behind the fashion. Read on more about what we found when hanging out at the Reliance Time Out Store and other interesting stories that have been lined up for you.

editor Abraham tharakan

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Subscribe & Visit www.fwdlife.in

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Contents

54

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY

people

12

MAIN STORY

24 FASHION MEETS CULTURE

36 WEDDED TO FIDDLE 8

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20 in focus A DAY WITH ANU

meet Vijay Prakash 28 An exclusive interview with the singer-composer

licensed to thrill

10

James Bond Cars through the ages

litt. and cinema

16

An analysis of mollywood's connection with literature

understanding Business

40

A relook into B-School education

health concerns from all over Jaish George's Health Tips

72

Behind the scenes

32

Friday movie shooting spot

on location

34

report on new movie Kaashh...

cityscape

60

18

68

eyes away from the boobs mister!

leisure music & culture

50

Tech-a-Break at Technopark

film review

53

A glance at new movies released in June

food

58

24 Carat

chef of the month

57

Tastes of Japanese cuisine

theatre fest

64

A review of five-day drama festival held at JT Pac, Kochi

events

Art of liVing

70

Thattathin Marayathu music

Book review

BhAVAnA

75

Popular and must read books

gadgets

78

Get to know what are the picks of this month

wtf

80

FWD Life readers respond to the topic on pre-marital sex

urban yogi

82

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Licensed bond cars

I

an Fleming would have never thought of the popularity the Bond franchise would attract when he sat down to work on Casino Royale in 1952 in his Goldeneye Estate in Jamaica. What followed would be hard to replicate as the mere continuity of the franchise 60 years down stands for itself. The suave, confident, and seductive MI6 agent in the service of Her Majesty and his risky ventures have captivated the minds of many a reader all over the world.

A typical Bond movie has everything a man possibly wants at some stage of his life. The need for speed, the swanky glitzy cars, the chase, the femme fatale, the guns, and of course, the license to kill (The author is not promoting anarchy but surely there had to be a moment in your lives where you wish you had a gun!). It’s safe to say that the archetype Bond hero, is the Utopian male identity in a chaotic parallel universe of renegade Russian generals, crazy dictators, and whatever evils that can sprout from

Text & Compilation KIRAN RAJATH

LOTUS ESPIRIT TURBO

First appearance - For Your Eyes Only Specs - 2.2 Litre Slant Four, 2690 lbs, 210 horsepower 0-60 - 5.6 seconds Bond Gadgets - Assumed to be the ones same as in its predecessor.

ASTON MARTIN DBS

ASTON MARTIN V8 VANTAGE VOLANTE

First appearance - On Her Majesty's Secret Sevice Specs - 4.0 Litre Straight-6, 3,760 lbs, 282 horsepower, 288lb ft torque 0-60 - 6.3 seconds Notable Bond gadgets - Unknown. Ironically was not fitted with bulletproof windows which lead to the death of Mrs. Bond Tracy di Vicenzo in the movie.

First appearance - The Living Daylights Specs - 5.3 Litre V8, 592 lb ft torque, 400 horsepower, 0-60 - 5.4 seconds Bond Gadgets - ice traction spikes, outrigger skis, bulletproof windows, forward firing missiles, side-firing laser, rocket booster, selfdestruct.

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to Thrill it, ultimately to save the world.

While the series have seen action with motorbikes, snowmobiles, jeeps, tanks, aircrafts, spacecrafts, stealth yachts, even our very beloved autorickshaws, the Bond cars have always caught the eye of the men and women alike. Every Bond movie generates a staggering amount of attention over the cars portrayed in the movie that it is now a privilege for the makers to showcase their cars in one. Car sales spike up across the charts once it’s been on a Bond movie. It has become a theme in various action movies to have a car accessorised to fit the needs of the driver so that the hero makes an exhilarating and out of the world getaway, enjoys a particular recreational activity, or simply to charm the whack out the female he’s set his eyes on. It’s all simple when you’re a hero and loaded, eh? Here’s a quick glance at the various vehicles which had the privilege of being driven by the 007.

ASTON MARTIN VANQUISH BMW Z3 First appearance - GoldenEye Specs - 1.9 Litre I4, 138 horsepower, 133 lb ft torque, 0-60 - 7.8 seconds Bond Gadgets - Satellite link-up, image scanner & printer

First appearance - Die Another Day Specs - 5.9 Litre V12, 460 horsepower, 400 lb feet torque, 4045 lbs,0-60 - 4.4 seconds Bond Gadgets - invisibility camouflage, forward firing auto-tracking dual shotguns, ejector seat, ice traction spikes, heat-seeking missiles.

BMW Z8

First appearance - The World Is Not Enough Specs - 4.9 Litre 32 valve V8,400 horsepower, 363 lb feet torque, 3600 lbs,0-60 - 4.2 seconds Bond Gadgets - Titanium plating, surface to air missiles, remote control(via keychain), infra-red tracking, high sensitivity eavesdropping.

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main story

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Ranging from talented actors to brilliant technicians, Bollywood is all set to create ripples in Hollywood in the years to come. FWD Life zooms in on the major achievements of Indians in Hollywood…

A

debut in Hollywood remained as a pipe dream for many in the Indian film industry, especially Bollywood, until a few decades ago.

Despite having oodles of talents here, Hollywood was a little late to recognize it; thanks to their ingrained views on Indian cinema which was struggling to extricate from the conventional style of filmmaking. To them, Indian cinema conveyed the myth that it’s all about actors jigging with the songs. Such notions are bound to happen about a land where commercial movies rule the roost. For our mainstream filmmakers who used to churn out potboilers, Hollywood is certainly an inspiration to explore new realms of creativity. Also we can’t deny the fact that they are adept in dexterously rehashing Hollywood flicks and get appreciations from movie goers.

It’s a paradox that despite filmmakers from the art house opened the doors of World Cinema for Indian film buffs, their films often bite the dust at the box office. A section of audience tends to pigeonhole their works as

insipid and noon show films. So, no wonder if they say award winning movies are only meant for providing a sound sleep. Filmmakers such as Satyajit Ray and Adoor Gopalakrishnan, the proponents of so-called art cinema, accomplished in catapulting Indian cinema to the global arena. Ray’s first film, "Pather Panchali" (1955), won 11 international prizes, including Best Human Documentary at the Cannes film festival. Conferring Academy Honorary Award on Satyajit Ray was really a recognition to the Indian film industry. In fact, Bhanu Athaiya’s bagging the coveted Oscar award for costume design in film "Gandhi" in 1982 gave a new enthusiasm to Indian cinema.

Primarily, Bollywood got its due recognition in Hollywood mainly through its technicians.

Filmmakers of Indian origin— Manoj Night Shyamalan, Gurinder Chadha et al were active in Hollywood right from the outset of their career.

But the real suspense was in the form of Danny Boyle-directed "Slumdog Millionaire" in 2008-09. The honours for "Slumdog Million-

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main story

The honours for Slumdog Millionaire at the Oscar also helped Indian technicians get the attention of Hollywood and it changed the preoccupation of critics on Bollywood

aire" at the Oscar also helped Indian technicians get the attention of Hollywood and it changed the preoccupation of critics there on Bollywood. Following this, actress Freida Pinto, who is best known for her portrayal of Latika in "Slumdog Millionaire", went on to star in the films such as "You Will Meet a Tall Dark

abeth I ("Elizabeth" and its sequel "Elizabeth: The Golden Age") garnered seven Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture and Best Actress for Cate Blanchett.

Indian-born Canadian film director and screenwriter Deepa Mehta is most known for her Elements trilogy, "Fire" (1996), "Earth" (1998), and "Water" (2005), among which "Earth" was submitted by the Indian government for Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. Padma Shri winner Manoj Night Shyamalan is known for making movies with contemporary supernatural plots.

Shyamalan hogged international recognition when he wrote and directed "The Sixth Sense" (1999), which was nominated for six Academy Awards. His other major films in Hollywood include "Unbreakable" and "Lady in the Water."

Actors

Stranger", "Miral"— in which she played the title character — and the box-office hit "Rise of the Planet of the Apes."

Now, we have a good number of artistes, technicians and corporate organizations from Bollywood engaged in different areas of film production in Hollywood.

Filmmakers Filmmaker Mira Nair shot to the limelight in Hollywood with her debut feature film "Salaam Bombay!" (1988) which won the Golden Camera award at the Cannes Film Festival and also earned the nomination for Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. The film is considered a groundbreaking film classic. "Mississippi Masala" (1991), "Kama Sutra: A Tale of Love" (1996), "Monsoon Wedding" (2001), "Hysterical Blindness" (2002), "Vanity Fair" (2004), "The Namesake" (2006) and "Amelia" (2009) are some of the movies made by this maverick filmmaker.

Shekhar Kapur, who is best known among the "desi" cinephiles for films like "Mr India" and "Bandit Queen", is a familiar figure in Hollywood too. His historical biopics of Queen Eliz14

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It is to be remembered that Indian beauty queen Persis Khambatta is known for the role of a bald navigator, Lieutenant Ilia, in 1979’s "Star Trek". She had a brief career in films. Ben Kingsley, who has his roots in Gujarat, won the Academy Award for Best Actor for "Gandhi" (1982). The biopic movie on Gandhiji was directed by Sir Richard Attenborough and music

by Pandit Ravi Shankar.

Among the Bollywood actors, diva

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan grabbed the attention of Hollywood in no time. The Bombay bombshell’s best shot so far at conquering Hollywood came with the lead in Gurinder Chadha’s 2004 flick "Bride & Prejudice", which was based on Jane Austen’s classic.

Later, she was seen in "The Mistress of Spices" (2005) with Dylan McDermott.

"Provoked", "The Last Legion" and "The Pink Panther 2" are some of her other films in Hollywood. "The Other End of the Line" is a romantic comedy film released in 2008 starring Shriya Saran and Anupam Kher. James Dodson directed the project. The film is based on an employee at an Indian call-centre who travels to San Francisco to be with a guy she falls for over the phone.

Amitabh Bachchan, who plays the role of Jewish money lender Meyer Wolfshiem, has a brief appearance in the upcoming "The Great Gatsby". Other instances are: Irrfan Khan portrays the role of a doctor in "The Amazing Spider-Man", directed by Marc Webb. There is a special appearance by Anil Kapoor in "MI4".

Dileep Rao played the chemist in Christopher Nolan’s "Inception"; and had a brief appearance as a scientist in "Avatar", directed by James Cameron. Some other instances are the following: Shefali Chowdhury played Parvati Patel in the Harry Potter series, Jimi Mistry and TV actor Gaurav Chopra had miniscule roles in the Leonardo di Caprio-starrer "Blood Diamond" in 2006 and Naseeruddin Shah acted with Sean Connery in "League of Extraordinary Gentlemen" in 2003. Actors Naseeruddin Shah, Rajat Kapoor, Randeep Hooda and Vasundara Das were also part of Mira Nair’s "Monsoon Wedding."

Moreover, several filmmakers such as Santhosh Sivan, Rajeev Anchal and Sohan Roy have already entered Hollywood with their projects. "The Terrorist", directed by Santhosh Sivan grabbed the critics’ appreciation in prominent film festivals. The list of Indians who give a 'desi' flavour in Hollywood soars gradually and undoubtedly, the latest Indian celebrity to make an eternal impact in Hollywood is composer A.R. Rahman, the "Mozart of Madras."

Today, the bonhomie between the two industries is further buttressed with the debut of Hollywood actors and studios in Bollywood.

Seemingly, the quid pro quo approach turns out to be a sleeper hit!

Prominent Actors of indian origin Kal Penn

Sendhil Ramamurthy

Known for the "Harold and Kumar" film series, Kalpen Suresh Modi was born to Gujarati parents and lives in Los Angeles. He is also known for his role in "The Namesake".

Best known for the American TV series Heroes, Sendhil recently appeared in the Bollywood film "Shor in the City." Sendhil was born in Chicago, but his family hails from Tamil Nadu.

Parminder Nagra Born to Sikh parents who immigrated to the UK, Parminder Nagra is best known for playing Jess in "Bend It Like Beckham." Nagra also essayed the role of Dr Neela Rasgotra in the popular American medical drama "ER."

Naveen Andrews Born in London, Andrews is remembered for Mira Nair’s "Kama Sutra – A Tale of Love." He was also seen in the popular romantic film "The English Patient", starring Ralph Fiennes.

Gurinder Chadha’s "Bride & Prejudice" and the television series "Lost" are others that saw Naveen achieve recognition.

Sarita Choudhury Mira Nair’s "Kama Sutra – A Tale of Love," got Sarita Choudhury noticed in the international circuit! Sarita also made her presence felt in "A Perfect Murder."

Padma Lakshmi A cookbook author, actress, model and a TV host, Padma Lakshmi adorns too many hats at the same time. Though born in Chennai, Padma Lakshmi grew up partly in New York and her Indian home town.

She is also the host of the popular American TV show Top Chef.

Archie Punjabi

Jimi Mistry

You have seen this pretty lass play elder sister to Jess (Parminder Nagra) in "Bend It Like Beckham." Archana Punjabi alias Archie was born to Indian parents who immigrated to Britain.

Archie was also seen in the American TV series "The Good Wife".

The half Indian, half Irish actor is probably known for his prominent role in the British black comedy "East is East." Mistry also appeared opposite Leonardo Di Caprio in the Oscar nominated film "Blood Diamond."

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cinema paradiso

A FILM BY AUTHORS

Does our cinema turn a blind eye to the literary works of Malayalam authors when it comes to selection of stories for films?

Text K.R. REJEESH

A

t a time when Mollywood faces paucity of quality scriptwriters, it’s bizarre that our filmdom seldom shows interest in the literary works of Malayalam authors for adaptation. Rehashing old flicks with modern makeover is the safe bet now, it seems. Current scenario manifests how Malayalam cinema flounders to identify writers like P. Padmarajan and M.T. Vasudevan Nair.

During the 80’s and 90’s, Malayalam cinema made the most of the maverick scriptwriters such as M.T, P. Padmarajan, T. Damodaran, S.N. Swamy, John Paul, A.K. Lohithadas, Sreenivasan and Ranjith et al.

In fact, P. Padmarajan made his films based on his literary works. Gradually, the need for relying on a novel or short story for films dwindled. It can be construed that after this period, filmmakers were unable to trace something exciting in literature to be adapted for a movie or they were pessimistic about the commercial viability of a literary fiction.

Moreover, exposure to the world cinema and the advent of Internet created new possibilities for filmmakers to experiment novel subjects. Some have even gone to the extent of rehashing foreign films into Malayalam; a practice that began in the past. It was really a rapid paradigm shift as far as cinema is concerned. Thus the chasm between cinema and literature began to grow.

Flash back History of Malayalam cinema vividly explains that cinema has always enjoyed its strong bonhomie with Malayalam literature. Albeit two different mediums, they have complemented each other from the outset. Writers of Malayalam literature have heavily contributed in catapulting Mollywood to the global arena with the real depiction of life and strong themes in their oeuvres. They have helped in rewriting the grammar of cinema; and thus 16

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paved way for the growth of Malayalam cinema which was more or less under the influence of plagiarism. In those fledgling days, the industry had the tendency to take a leaf out of the films released in Tamil and Hindi.

Mollywood’s tryst with literature began post the release of the first feature film "Vigathakumaran" in 1928. The second film "Marthanda Varma" (1933) was based on C.V. Raman Pillai’s famous novel. This film marked the beginning of an eventful and successful journey of Malayalam cinema with its literature. Till then drama, literature and other art forms were the main tools of literati to fight the evil practices in the society. Very soon, writers realized the power of the medium, which could portray their works in a broad and different canvas.

In 1954, P. Bhaskaran and Ramu Karyat duo directed "Neelakkuyil," which was based on a story written by Uroob. Again, the 1958 film "Nairu Pidicha Pulivalu," directed by P. Bhaskaran, was based on Uroob’s own story “Business”. During the late 50’s, film "Randidangazhi," was released. The movie was based on the novel of the same name

by Thakazhi Sivasankara Pillai. "Bhargavi Nilayam," released in 1964 was the cinematic adaptation of Basheer’s novel. Another Thakazhi novel "Chemmeen" was made into a film in 1965 which made history by winning President’s Golden Lotus Award. "Odayil ninnu" (1965) was based on the novel written by P. Kesavadev.It was directed by K.S. Sethumadhavan. Writer G. Vivekanandan’s "Kallichellamma" (1969) also had a celluloid adaptation which was filmed by P. Bhaskaran.

And the list goes on…

Taking a cue from this trend of yore, of late, Vaikom Muhammad Basheer’s magnum opus "Balyakalasakhi" will have the celluloid adaptation by debutant director Pramod Payyannur.

ADAPTED WORKS FOR FILMS

1

Rathinirvedam

2

Irattakuttikalude Achchan

3

Ramaanam

4

Agnisakshi

5

Daivathinte Vikrithikal

6

Panchavadippalam

7

Mathilukal

8

Sufi Paranja Katha

9

Theerthadanam

Based on a novel by P. Padmarajan.

Adapted from the short story of C.V Balakrishnan.

Based on Punathil Kunjabdulla’s novel.

Based on the novel by Lalithambika Antharjanam.

Based on a novel by M. Mukundan.

Based on short story by Veloor Krishnankutty.

Based on a novel by Vaikom Muhammad Basheer.

Adapted from a novel by K.P. Ramanunni.

Based M.T. Vasudevan Nair's short story.

Vidheyan

10 Adapted from a novel

by Paul Zacharia.

Vasthuhara

11 Based on a short story by C.V. Sreeraman.

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celebs bhavana

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Mollywood’s

busy bee Actor Bhavana’s career is at the crossroads as she snaps up riveting offers from other languages

Photos JAMESH KOTTAKAL

I

t has been almost a decade since actress Bhavana made her debut in the film industry. Like they say, it was a ‘dream debut’ in a Kamal film. As a debutant, off-screen recognition and appreciation from film buffs are certainly proud moments. But the garrulous Parimalam, the character in the film "Nammal", had left the audience in a daze about Bhavana’s real identity. It was only after the release of "Chronic Bachelor" that they realized the bubbly girl’s real complexion and charm.

Thrissur-born Bhavana has completed over 45 films in all languages. In Mollywood, she has acted along with the leading actors in the industry, including superstars Mohanlal and Mammootty. While her roles in "Swapnakoodu", "Chathikkatha Chandu" and "Marykkundoru Kunjaadu" showcased Bhavana’s ability to handle humour, movies like "Twenty:20", "Lollypop" and "Oru Marubhoomikkadha" catapulted her in the league of glamorous actresses. In an industry where chubby heroines were preferred till recently, Bhavana assiduously follows her diet and workout to keep her fit. Her perseverance and hard work helped her get opportunities in Kollywood and Tollywood. Now, she is among the leading actresses in Sandalwood too.

Bhavana is one of the rarest of actresses who are popular with the characters they have portrayed on silver screen. Recall Parimalam in "Nammal", ‘Parakkum’ Latha in "Chotta Mumbai", Sandhya in "Chronic Bachelor", Padma in "Swapnakoodu", Sameera in "Daivanamathil" etc. For her character in "Daivanamathil", Bhavana bagged Kerala State

Film Award for Second Best Actress in 2005.

Bhavana had an eventful debut in Tamil with Mysskin directed "Chithiram Pesuthadi" in 2006. This critically acclaimed film earned her Filmfare Award for Best Tamil Actress. Later, she struck gold with the award-winning film "Veyil", directed by Vasanthabalan. No looking back since then as she went on to act in different languages including Telugu and Kannada.

With her pervasive smile and inimitable mien she has essayed her characters into perfection and accomplished to lap up meaty roles in all languages.

However, apart from her glamour quotient it was Bhavana’s acting prowess that put her in the limelight in the tinsel town where nubile nymphs rule the roost and are chosen for shaking a leg with the heroes. She was fortunate to get opportunities to act opposite Kollywood biggies such as Ajith, Madhavan and Jeyam Ravi et al. and more importantly, Bhavana always keeps a steady progress in other languages where prominent characters for heroines are few and far between.

As a child, Bhavana always dreamed of becoming an actress. Today she is one of the busiest actors in South. The "Doctor Love" actress is also the brand ambassador for team Kerala Strikers for the Celebrity Cricket League (CCL). "Trivandrum Lodge" and "Ozhimuri" are her upcoming flicks in Mollywood. Recent years saw oodles of newcomers making their debut in Mollywood; but Bhavana still holds the girl-next-door as well as the glamour damsel image in tinsel world.

In an industry where chubby heroines were preferred till recently, Bhavana assiduously follows her diet and workout to keep her fit

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in focus anu hasan

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Anu Hasan entered filmdom and won our hearts with Indira. Thanks to her chat show on Vijay TV, Koffee with Anu, as the host, she is a household name now. It was all fun and frolic when FWD Life met her on the sets of the multilingual movie Kunthapura, directed by Joe Eashwar. She talked to us on stardom, new projects, Kamal Haasan and lots more

A Day with Anu Text AVEBANE Photos Christy Johnson

Joe Eashwar’s Kunthapura is Anu Hasan’s first movie in Malayalam. She plays the role of an award winning journalist, Gowri Iyer, who reports about the forgotten heroes of Indian Independence

A

nu is travelling in an Innova on the Bangalore highway with director Joe Eashwar and cameraman Navas. Following it closely in a Chevrolet Cruze is the rest of team Kunthapura, including the star of the movie, Biyon. "Kunthapura" team uses walkie-talkie for communication and while Joe gives instructions to the other car, Anu plans a prank. She snatches the walkie-talkie and posing as a cop (reminding us of her brilliant performance in "Rekha IPS") tells them, “Please get off the line, this is Inspector Bhavani speaking, and you are currently interfering with our instruments.” It’s all silence in the other car and in order to make it more realistic, she mimics static interference and goads driver Vijayakumar into yelling in Kannada as a fellow officer. It took some time for the "Kunthapura" team to realize that it was the handiwork of the ‘naughty’ actress.

During dinner at the local Savoury Restaurant, Madiwala, with the "Kunthapura" team, we asked whether she eats non-vegetarian food. “How dare you ask me? I’m a Tamil Iyengar. A pure non-vegetarian” and burst into

laughter. The actress impressed the flocking fans by taking time to pose for as many photographs as possible. Most of them couldn’t believe that it was their favourite actor who was relishing a bowl of mango ice cream from a roadside eatery.

Hasan credits both her upbringing and training for her super cool attitude and maturity. "Although the latter is questionable," she adds. Coming from a well-known family which had been credited with the most number of National Awards, she says they are all down-to-earth. “Stardom is a fickle mistress.”

Koffee with Anu “The best episodes of "Koffee with Anu", I think it can be the following order: 1. SPB sir and Gangai Amaran sir, 2. Jayaram sir 3.

Sathyaraj sir 4. Manorama 5. any episode with veteran actors ...oh! dear, as I look back I keep getting more and more. But if I had to choose one, it would be the one with SPB sir and Gangai Amaran sir. It was wonderful to see them together and their equation was marvelous. Jayaram sir’s episode was hilarious,” says an excited Anu. 2012 JULY

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in focus anu hasan

About her acting with Kamal UK Episode Haasan in “Life in the UK is again something that I love.

I have the freedom to do what I want to do.

Aalavandhan, Anu says I have a house that I love pottering around, it was easy to act with the cleaning up and creating messes alternately.

Right now, I am sitting with the entire contents normal of two large suitcases strewn around me on character by Kamal in the the floor. It looks like a bomb exploded! I love work at the local park for the film. She found it hard to act volunteering fitness it imparts — chopping wood, tilling the with the other eccentric soil, planting trees and hauling garden waste character, Abhay, like branches and leaves. It is my green gym.

I love going for long walk, writing, running, who was also sitting at a roadside cafe drinking coffee and portrayed by Kamal watching the world go by," she gushes.

"I am also currently working on two feature films here (Tamil). So there is some semblance of useful work. But to be honest I am having a blast —almost like being on holiday,” Anu adds.

About Kunthapura “I am so glad that I agreed to do "Kunthapura."

And it was perfect timing. I was anyway coming to India on some other work and when Joe said he wanted me to work in the project, the 22

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dates fitted in rather neatly with my schedule. The entire team has a beautiful simplicity which struck a chord in me. You saw how they treated me-like I was a special member in their family and I was happy to be a part of them.

It is unusual to find such a cohesive team.

Because this is a dream fueled by passion for cinema and that is something that lends a unique quality to the atmosphere. I am waiting for the red carpet launch in UK,” Anu added with a smile.

As Kamal’s mother in Aalavandhan “I was cast as his mom due to my resemblance. It was easy to act with the normal character by Kamal in the movie. But it was hard to be with the eccentric character, Abhay, who was also portrayed by Kamal. With blood oozing from his mouth and his sneering, I was paralyzed. All I could see was the beast and not my "chittappa". Then Kamal grunted, “Deliver your dialogues.” It was a wonderful experience,” Anu winds up. After a few more rounds of snaps with fans who approached her, Anu rushed for her flight to Hyderabad braving the busy traffic in Bengaluru.

2012 JULY

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spotlight ritu kumar

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Eminent fashion designer Ritu Kumar’s opulent designs blend with rich Indian cultural heritage, which she considers as her inspiration

FASHION MEETS CULTURE The designs of yore, which largely reflect our cultural heritage, get a makeover when she diligently adapts it to the contemporary style

F

ashion is not all about coalescing of colours; but the ‘out-of-the-box’ creativity behind the design makes the attire cynosure of all eyes. The success of ace fashion designer Ritu Kumar underlines these facts and what’s more, her outfits had been patronized by style icons such as late Princess Diana and Jemima Khan.

The wardrobes designed by Ritu Kumar have been an integral part of beauty pageants like Miss Universe and Miss World. The designs of yore, which largely reflect our cultural heritage, get a makeover when she diligently adapts it to the contemporary style. Known for her ethnic Indian wear, the iconic Ritu Kumar has been around in the fashion industry over 40 years. She has outlets in 14 cities in India.

Ritu’s understanding of ancient designs and the innovative use of traditional crafts has created a new classicism. Her range of western and Indian apparel is all about traditions and individual talent, and women across the continents can easily identify with her vision of design. The talented designer shares her journey to the helm of fashion industry with FWD Life.

Excerpts : When did you realize fashion was the arena you wanted to step in?

I always wanted to study the history of art and drama which I did when I went to American on a scholarship during my time at Lady Irwing.

Text ASHWATHY S

When I returned to Kolkata, I pursued a course in Indian history and art and was exposed to museology – the study of museums. This is when my interest in crafts began and from there onwards it developed into fashion designing.

Tell us about your early days…

I began work with four hand block printers and two tables, in a small village near Calcutta more than 45 years ago. One day, an order came in for 2,000 pieces of a scarf sample that I was showcasing and it was a scale I could not manage on my own. My husband and I put our heads together to get the order done and after that there was no looking back for us.

When did you first start designing and who was your inspiration?

I first started designing in 1966. The inspiration was just my interest in various craft forms and that somehow developed into designing over time.

Are your contemporary and classic designs inspired from India’s rich cultural heritage?

My first lesson as a designer was that I could not plant 18th century idioms straight into the 20th century. I understood that I had to use the idiom, the motif, the design from our heritage, but dovetail it to contemporary styles and aspirations. So, yes, inspiration is primarily coming from India’s rich cultural heritage.

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spotlight ritu kumar

Ritu’s range of western and Indian apparel is all about traditions and individual talent, and women across the continents can easily identify with her vision of design

How successful do you think you have been in your profession?

For me, the biggest drive has always been to highlight the rich Indian cultural identity woven into the classicism of textile. It’s been a never-ending process over years to redefine the term “fashion” in the Indian context.

We have demonstrated that Indian fashion is more than capable of holding its own in the international arena of haute couture. And it’s my endeavour to continue to do that.

Three things you always try to keep alive in all your designs?

Pure textiles, traditional embroideries, highlighting a craft heritage from the country.

Were you a fashionista or a geek in your early days?

I always enjoyed my work in school and college, I wasn’t overly studious, but I was 26

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dedicated once I decided to get involved in something.

If not a designer what would you have been?

I would have been a full-time painter. In my early days, I had gone to the Fine Arts Academy and learned painting.

How did you come up with the plan of opening a boutique in Cochin?

These days, smaller towns are no different from bigger towns and the younger generation is pretty clued-up in newer styles. We understood that there was an aspiration for both Indian bridal wear and western styles which come from our pret line Label. So it was a natural move.

What are your future plans?

I am working on my second book and in the midst of research for it.

2012 JULY

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tete-a-tete

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Meet singer-composer Vijay Prakash, the voice behind jingles like Cadbury Dairy Milk, Kalyan Sarees, Domino’s Pizza, Tanishq and many more. In a freewheeling chat, he reveals his connection with Kerala

CROSSING BORDERS

MUSICALLY Text K.R. REJEESH Photos JINSON ABRAHAM

T

hough he made his debut in Mollywood in the film "Neelathamara", playback singer-composer Vijay Prakash is yet to sing a solo in a Malayalam movie! But what made him popular among Kerala audience is his hit numbers in other languages; especially the Hosanna number in Tamil movie "Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa". The "Jai Ho" singer, who has many ad jingles to his credit, has a strong Kerala connection too. “Malayalam is also has been part of my growing. My maternal grandmother is from Kerala. We’ve grown up listening to the songs of Baburaj and of course, the songs of living legends such as Yesudas and Chithraji,” reveals Vijay Prakash. “I am hoping to do more songs in Malayalam.” Recalling his experience in Mollywood, Vijay said: “It’s beautiful actually. I was introduced in Malayalam by composer Vidyasagar. Incidentally, he introduced me in Tamil too in the movie "Anbe Sivam.”

Born in Mysore, singer-composer Vijay Prakash began his musical journey in Mumbai and has sung in different languages including Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu and Kannada.

“Unfortunately, I’ve not sung many songs in Malayalam, except for a portion in "Neelathamara". But there are many songs I love in Malayalam. I always perform "Oru madhurakkinavin" in my stage shows,” he says.

Vijay Prakash hogged the limelight with the songs composed by A.R. Rahman, who was instrumental in shaping his career. “As a musician and as a person who has worked with him, I can say A.R. Rahman is the biggest example perhaps for someone being so passionate about the work they do and the amount of hard work that they put to their dreams takes them to the highest level possible in life. What I have learned from him is there is no substitute to hard work, passion, sincerity; and as they say, if you excel in your work success follows.

I think he is the biggest example of that. As everybody knows, he is an amazing human being and a few people who have worked with him also have realized that he is a fun-loving person,” says Vijay.

Vijay Prakash hogged the limelight with the songs composed by A.R. Rahman, who was instrumental in shaping his career

Bollywood sojourn On his working experience in Bollywood, he says, “In Bollywood, the influence is more of 2012 JULY

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tete-a-tete

Vijay Prakash says, when you are singing a Hindi song you have to understand the tradition of that state, culture and the region’s aesthetic values

North music. The working style is the same in Bollywood and South. Only the tradition is slightly different. But I always say all music comes out of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Da Ni. No matter what it is. It’s all universal and it’s all beautiful.” He refutes the notion that it’s difficult for a South Indian singer to get recognition in Bollywood. “According to me, there is nothing like that. When you are singing a Hindi song you have to understand the tradition of that state, culture and the region’s aesthetic values. There is nothing called South Indian singer not doing well in North. Work hard, you can be successful anywhere in the world,” he points out.

As a playback singer, one of his biggest dreams was to sing for Big B and Rajinikanth.

The singer realized it when he crooned for Big B in "Cheeni Kum" and for Rajini in "Enthiran".

Reality shows As a former participant of a reality show, Vijay says these shows help talented people get op30

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portunities and adds, “There are so many singers, opportunities and also reality shows bring in singers more often. If your focus shifts even slightly, you will be out of the race.

Probably when name, fame and money start coming in, it’s natural for humans to get their focus a little out of control. At that time, we should look at the stalwarts who have achieved thousand times more than us and still so down-to-earth. When you look at them you realize I have achieved nothing and so there is no reason for me to act funny. If you can stay grounded you will stay forever. That’s my ideology.”

My voice “Voice is something that’s very powerful and also very sensitive. Basic 8 hour rest is very important. Sometimes we don’t get mush rest.

In that case, we have to take care of our voice.

I don’t follow any strict diet. But I try and stay away from anything chilled and very cold,” signs off Vijay.

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behind the scenes

FRIDAY One day, many stories

One of the highlights of the movie ‘Friday 11.11.11 Alappuzha’ is there won’t be an intermission

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Film Concepts Banner: Innovative , Sandhra as Joseph Pattathanam om Th : rs ce du ro P Thomas Direction: Lijin Jose Music: Roby Abraham Lyrics: Beeyar Prasad y: Jomon Thomas Cinematograph , Fahad Fazil, Cast: Nedumudi Venu stine, Bhare, Manu, Ann Augu h as ak Pr , an av gh ara Vijay ers Asha Sarath among oth

ill a few months ago, there was a hue and cry among the cinephiles that Malayalam cinema is in crisis. Dearth of interesting subjects was cited as one of the reasons for it. But the recent success of movies with riveting themes has given a fresh lease of life to the industry. Quite a few new filmmakers have already created a buzz in the industry with their novel projects. Joining the bandwagon of such films is "Friday 11.11.11 Alappuzha", which narrates the events happening in a day. Set in the backdrop of Alappuzha, the movie tells the story of different relation-

ships and depicts the lives of innocent people in a small town during a day.

Apart from an interesting title and story, what makes it special is there won’t be an interval all through the movie. Unlike his recent movies, actor Fahad Fazil, the protagonist in the film, will portray the character of an autorickshaw driver.

Produced by Thomas Joseph Pattathanam and Sandhra Thomas under the banner of Innovative Film Concepts, the film is directed by debutant Lijin Jose, a protégé of filmmakers T.K. Rajeev Kumar, V.K. Prakash and Deepu Karunakaran. The script is by Najeem Koya of

"Apoorvaragam" fame. The film brings to the limelight some instances which normally goes unnoticed in our busy day-to-day life. It deals with how strange people unknowingly walk into each other’s life and how an incident can change their life. The film will be a commercial entertainer and a visual treat for the audience, according to the crew. They are confident that the movie would create a new trend in Mollywood in terms of production and direction.

Commenting on their debut production, producer Sandhra Thomas said: “In my experience, new generation directors prefer young producers who can match their wavelength

and are easy to get along. I had decided that I will listen to a script and commit a film only if it excites me. I have confidence in the script and the director.”

The ensemble cast includes Nedumudi Venu, Fahad Fazil, Vijayaraghavan, Prakash Bhare, Manu, Ann Augustine and Asha Sarath et al. Serial actress Asha Sarath, who is also a dancer, makes her debut in Mollywood with this film. She plays an important role in the film. Jomon Thomas cranks the camera, lyrics

by Beeyar Prasad and music is composed by Roby Abraham. The movie is slated for release on August 18.

Set in the backdrop of Alappuzha, the movie tells the story of different relationships and depicts the lives of innocent people in a small town during a day

2012 JULY

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pre-production

Kaashh…IN ON SUCCESS Film Kaashh… from the stable of Film Brewery of 22FK fame introduces a new director duo and a team of youngsters

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C

lose on the heels of the sleeper hit "22 Female Kottayam (22FK)", Film Brewery gears up for their next venture, "Kaashh…" which will have a bunch of talented youngsters making their debut in Mollywood. Interestingly, a few of them have worked behind the camera for "22FK". Bollywood actress Leena Panchal, who has done a cameo in "Houseful 2", makes her debut in Mollywood through this movie.

Produced by Ogee, the movie is touted to be a comic thriller.

"Kaashh…" also marks the debut of director duo Sujith and Sajith, who has written the screenplay.The story of "Kaashh…" is by Vamanapuram Mani.

The movie revolves around a four-member gang, who abducts a millionaire’s daughter for ransom. In a sudden turn of events, the gang lands in a house with the girl and they also hold the family members hostage. How does the gang cope with the family and the unexpected situations that pop up during their stay forms the crux of this comic caper.

“I had associated with the production team

of "22FK". The recent success of debutant actors in Mollywood gave me the confidence to accept this character,” said Vineeth. K, who has been performing as a DJ for seven years.

He has completed film and sound engineering course from SAE, London. According to the directors, the producer is the ‘hero’ for giving such a platform for newcomers. “The story demands a fresh treatment in comedy and performance. As debutant filmmakers, Mr Ogee has confidence in us. Also we got back-up from such a good banner.” Sujith has worked under filmmaker late Mohan Raghavan and Sajith was an assistant to directors Shaji Kailas, Deepan, S.P. Mahesh and Rajasenan.

The cast includes Innocent, Suraj Venjaramoodu, Tini Tom, Mammukoya, Chembil Ashokan, Krishna Prabha, Geetha Vijayan, Biju Kuttan, Rajeev Pillai, Leena Panchal, Basil, Bineesh Kodiyeri, Mehul James, Tinu Menachery, Vineeth. K, Jai Shankar. N among others.

While lyrics are penned by Vayalar Sarath Chandra Varma, Sandeep Pillai composes the music and Prajith cranks the camera.

art & culture

Chalking out lives Artistic wonders of A.B. Zainudheen remind us how an innovative idea can change your creative skills and to look at things with different perspectives Text ASHWATHY S Photos NIKAS NEO

W

hat would you do if you see a piece of chalk and a needle lying near you? Wait before letting your imagination go wild…and meet Zainudheen Ambalath, who will tell you a different story if he falls upon it.

Crossing the alley of Kochangadi and climbing up the stairs to an old and shabby studio, I found a whole Lilliputian world of small wonders waiting to amuse onlookers. Deftly arranged in a rack within this studio are some of the finest specimens from over 800 miniature chalk sculptures made by this versatile artist.

The studio also displays his abstract and modern paintings and encloses a space for audio recording. What really brought him to the limelight is an idea that struck this art teacher’s mind 30 years ago. A hobby of carving out miniature sculptures inspired from the sight of chalk pieces lying on floor that resembled human figures.

Zainudheen pursued a degree in Arts from Cochin School of Arts under his gurus Dathan and Babu Ram. This arts teacher took voluntary retirement from a government school to devote more time to his passion of carving miniature creations. This technique of three dimensional sculpting on a chalk piece demanded immense patience and can’t be taught unlike any other art forms until and unless you have an innate inclination to this kind of art.

Unlike sculpting statues, where the artist gets a larger space and has a vivid idea for his creation, the art of sculpting on chalk pieces demands intense level of concentration and

the latter task of oil painting turns out to be a daunting task as the painting has to be done with a single bristle. He began carving Lord Ganesha for which, he claims, the carving completed within 2-3 hours.

“To get a full figure right at least 10-12 pieces of chalks have to be worked upon over and over. The miscible nature of the chalk and paint also further makes the task even more tedious,” says Zainudheen.According to him, the biggest challenge is to create the replica of the face on a tiny surface with a tiny needle and then put in ‘life’ with a single bristle of brush.

His creations include personalities like M.F. Hussain, Amitabh Bachchan, Aristotle, Mohammed Khoya, Mahatma Gandhi, Jesus Christ, Manmohan Singh, Mamukkoya et al.

“Sculpting task may take from half-an-hour to even two to three weeks or at times even longer as there are no reference pictures to work with,” says Zainudheen.Associated with multifarious forms of art, Zainudheen proudly showed some of the cassettes and CD’s for which he had penned lyrics. The excitement was palpable on his face and he made us listen to some of his new lyrical compositions. The artist keeps his fingers crossed for his upcoming music album “Aanakadav”.

Creating a full length human figure on a 3.5 inch-long chalk should indeed deserves a big appreciation, but the artist faces lack of encouragement. So he decides to retreat from making mini sculptures as his efforts go unrecognized.However, he hopes that he would get a platform to showcase his art forms someday in future.

Sculpting task may take from half-an-hour to even two to three weeks or at times even longer as there are no reference pictures to work with

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people harikumar sivan

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Amid inane hullabaloos in present music scenario, violin virtuoso Harikumar

WEDDED TO FIDDLE Text K.R. REJEESH Photos FWD MEDIA

This maverick violinist is gearing up to play a 9-string violin, which is higher than a violin and lower than a double bass of the violin family, by the end of this year

A

globe trotter with his innovations on violin, 31-year-old Harikumar Sivan (S. Harikumar) is a ‘oneman’ avant-garde in the field of music. When he played his 7-individual string violin for his albums, he became the first Indian to perform on it. During his performance on it, the octaves seem boundless and his fingers skim through a range of octaves at amazing speed. Moreover, this maverick violinist is gearing up to play a 9-string violin, which is higher than a violin and lower than a double bass of the violin family, by the end of this year.

Born to mridangam vidwan H. Sivan and A. Gomaty Iyer in Thiruvananthapuram, this precocious fiddler is proficient in Carnatic music, Hindustani music and other genres of world classical music. Harikumar was initiated into music by his father, violinist Chalakudy N.S. Narayanaswamy and vocalist Ananthalekshmi Venkitaraman.

“When we add one more string to the normal 4-string violin it becomes violin and viola.

The 7-string violin can cover till cello in the violin family. It was made by London-based Violectra company and it consists of seven individual strings.Though Mysore T. Chowdiah had played a 7-string violin, the strings were not separate ones,” he explains.

Passage to England After resigning his job in AIR in New Delhi, he left for London in 2005. “I liked the Russian classical background milieu there. I taught Indian classical violin at the Trinity College of Music. As a quid pro quo, I learned western for free from Trinity,” says Hari Kumar. “While studying there I struck the idea of including all together in the violin family. It’s difficult to play on a 7-string violin which is about 8cm in length. I worked hard on it.”

In the UK, Harikumar formed his band BlueFire along with Chris Haig, Geoff Castle, Steve Taylor and Viktor Oburst. It was disbanded in 2009. He reformed BlueFire in India with drummer-singer Sanjay Maroo.

Harikumar has performed violin concerts in other countries like England and Paris. Mentioning his concert at the famous Royal Albert Hall, London, he said: “It’s a dream for any artist to perform a concert at this hall. I have also performed solo concerts at the Royal Festival Hall.”

Mentor For Harikumar violin maestro Dr L. Subramaniam is his childhood inspiration and role model. He met the maestro in Delhi and associated with him for three years. Harikumar cherishes an unforgettable incident with L. Subramaniam when he played before him for the first time 2012 JULY

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people harikumar sivan

Harikumar is chagrined at the response of the audience who unknowingly appreciate the present instrumental razzmatazz as fusion music

at his home in Bengaluru. “There were a lot of people around him. I played one of his famous compositions ‘Flight of the humble bee’ which he had played with a 5-string violin. But I presented it using a 4-string violin. After listening to it, he said: “You are playing so good. Why you want to learn from me.” I was humbled by his words,” reminisces Harikumar.

However, Harikumar is chagrined at the response of the audience who unknowingly appreciate the present instrumental razzmatazz as fusion music. “Stalwarts like Dr L. Subramainam and L. Shankar had contemplated fusion only after procuring authentic knowledge in Carnatic and western music. But today, mere cacophony also has been recognized as fusion,” Harikumar pointed out.

Nothing But Hari An album consisting of pancha ratna krithis by Saint Thyagaraja is his forthcoming project.

“It’s a humble tribute to Saint Thyagaraja and it’s all about his five pancha ratna krithis (five diamonds). Pancha ratna keerthanas are sung during the Thyagaraja festival in which thousands of musicians take part. In such a concert, there is no combination. Singers tend to sing different ways. I am using the maximum song possibility of 7-string violin for this album,” he 38

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said.

In this album, Harikumar attributes the five diamonds to five natural powers (pancha bhoothams) of the universe, only with his 7-string violin. Not even a thampuru is used to accompany the violin. Meanwhile, ‘Breath Taker’ was his first international album for which, he says, L. Subramaniam was his inspiration.

‘Janaranjani’ was the first Carnatic album in the world to be recorded in a 7-string violin.

Harikumar says, “I have adopted the techniques acquired by Mr Subramaniam over the 20 years for the album ‘Flight of the simple bee’. After the release of the album, Kalapremi, a web portal in Newcastle, UK, wrote: “Harikumar starts where L. Subramaniam stops.”An aficionado of all kinds of music, Harikumar feels music should have a soul in it. “Big composers have never composed music to entertain audience. Instead, audience followed them. Now, music is composed to pander to the audience,” says Harikumar who has composed music for a few programmes on Surya TV and Amrita TV and a tele-film ‘One Circle’.

Harikumar, who bagged the Best Violinist award in 2001 from the then President Mr K.R. Narayanan, plans to open a music school as he feels that violin techniques are being taught in a wrong way.

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education

UNDERSTANDING

BUSINESS Advent of B Schools creates new firmaments of opportunities for management professionals

Present educational system shows that having a besotted mindset most fail to ponder a career beyond B.Tech and Medicine

W

hen 18-year-old Preetha completed Plus Two, her decision was to join for a course other than B.Tech or Medicine. But her employed parents had some other ideas. Since the family is awaiting an engineer in the making — the elder son, they wanted the daughter to become a doctor. Somehow, they ‘bought’ an MBBS seat for Preetha. Later she realized how her parents had shattered her dreams by forcing her to choose an incongruous career. The story might be not an isolated one in a society where parents, unknowingly, are ‘misleading’ their children when it comes to their career preference.

Reality

Prof. Rama Bharatha Varma Dean, GEMS B School, Thrissur

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Mushrooming of engineering colleges raises the question if they provide quality education.

Moreover, present educational system shows that having a besotted mindset most fail to ponder a career beyond B.Tech and Medicine.

“In Kerala, there is 100 per cent literacy, but not even five per cent education. We need a political will as well as a personal will to implement projects. Unfortunately, we are not open to experiment. When you talk about school education or higher education, all the experiments start with a bang and end in a whisper. It doesn’t have any consistency,” says education expert Prof. Rama Bharatha Varma, who is also the Dean of GEMS B School in Thrissur.

Commenting on the procrastination of

projects in Kerala, he said: “There is no dearth of ideas for Keralites. If anybody comes out with an idea there will be interference of higher authorities without any reason and they won’t allow the idea to become a reality. There is absolutely no professionalism in any sector in education.”

Though there are plenty of seats vacant in the state, students migrate to other cities like Chennai and Bengaluru for professional courses. Mr Varma opines that exodus of students to other states is due to the illusion that they provide quality education.

Teaching method Emphasizing on the importance of skills in professional career, GEMS B School has derived a novel teaching methodology which enables students to bring out their best and face the new challenges in the corporate world.

“I give very minimum importance to syllabus. Teachers are allowed to teach syllabus in the morning with an interactive session. For the afternoon session, we have developed a programme called TARGET, which includes discussions, mock interviews, public speaking, story-telling and writing criticism etc. During the interactive sessions, PG and graduate students will sit together.

Also we have a system where ten students will be under one teacher,” says Mr. Varma.

According to him, complete lack of skill is one of the common deficiencies found among management students. With an aim

to develop the skills required for an excellent career in the corporate world, GEMS B School commences training programme for all students from the day they join the institute.

The Placement Cell in the institute ensures all the eligible students get placed in excellent companies during the final year.

“Every education should be contextual.

We have tremendous potential but there is no fire to blast. The fire is actually skills,” he adds.

Ventured into the management education programme in 2011, GEMS strives for providing world class training in this field.

GEMS B School offers courses in Industry Synergised MBA, Integrated Industry Synergised BBA+MBA and management programmes of Bharathiyar University -

BBA, BCom, MBA and MCom. The unique feature of the programme is “Earning-While-Learning Combination,” which adds to students’ exposure to the corporate world. The students are also trained to read books, business news papers and business magazines effectively.

The institution also brags of facilities including free laptop and study materials, Wi-Fi campus, AC classrooms, a library equipped with more than 5,500 management books, IFRS certification, Six Sigma certification, NCFM Certification from National Stock Exchange, Certifications in Tally, Peachtree and book keeping , project management Certificate from PMI, USA, career counseling and hostel facilities.

According to Prof. Rama Bharatha Varma, complete lack of skill is one of the common deficiencies found among management students

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Photography : Toonus Model : Jawad Jawahir Designer & Stylist : Divya Make-up : Swati Production : Eye Candies

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red check shirt layered with buttoned down long sleeved sweatshirt

EXPLORATION OF STyLES WITHIN THE URBAN MILIEU

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linen fitted shirt and jacket with linen narrow fitted trousers

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White linen shirt layered by a loosely knitted full fashioned sweater and denim combination

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Twill weave silk kurta with linen waist coat and denim

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grooming

Buffer from

m ns W

ith the monsoon showers hover around the sky, it’s time to take cover not only from the rain but also from all kinds of insidious maladies. It’s also important to keep tab on your health to see if you are fully invigorated. For someone who plans for getting rejuvenated with the authentic treatments of God’s Own Country, here’s some good news.

Situated amidst the tropical paradise, Le Méridien Kochi offers special monsoon package, “Monsoon Retreat”, combined with the goodness of authentic ayurveda. The hotel has formulated an exclusive package for stays between June 1 and September 30.

Treatments Abhiyangam - Medicated herbal oil application, where oil is applied in a moderate speed and pressure that restates the body and mind to a relaxed mode.

Elakizhi- In this treatment, fresh herbs are processed in medicated oils and made into poultices with which hot compressions are given all over the body.

Shirodhara- A traditional form of ayurvedic therapy which involves continuous pouring of

specific medicated oil over the forehead which helps to release mental stress and induce sound sleep.

Jivantika- The therapy commences with head massage, neck and shoulder massage followed by a full body massage and concludes with Shirodhara.

Facilities The hotel offers the finest landscape with 25 acres of pristine garden areas along with unparalleled view of the Cochin backwaters. Le Méridien Kochi, the five star deluxe hotel with 223 luxurious rooms and suites, is well located within easy reach of Cochin International Airport, Ernakulum Railway Station and the City centre.

Terms and Conditions Offer valid for stays between June 1, 2012 to September 30, 2012 Rates are valid for minimum 2,3 nights, as specified in the offer Rates are not valid for group bookings Confirmation of rooms is subject to availability Offer not valid on blackout dates Spa booking is subjected to advance reservations and availability.

n Package

Offer for 3 nights 4 days Offer starts from Rs 18,500 Nett Package includes 3 night stay with breakfast + an exclusive ayurveda combination treatment (Abhiyangam+Ela kizhi+Shirodhara) per person per day.

Offer for 2 nights 3 days Offer starts from Rs 14,000 Nett Pakage includes 2 night stay with breakfast + an exclusive ayurveda combination treatment (Elakizhi+Jivantika)per person per day.

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folK Ar@t

Cotton Printed overlap V Neck Top Price ` 690

A i d n i B fA Cotton mangalgiri A-Line V neck Sindhi embroided Anghrakha Kura Long Price ` 1390 Cotton Printed A Line ColSlit Side Tassel Kurta medium Price ` 890

Cotton A-Line Boat Neck Sleeveless kurta medium Price ` 1260

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Cotton mangalgiri A-Line V neck Sindhi embroided Anghrakha Kura Long

mangalgiri Stripe Pintuck empire Line Stiched Yoke Kurta Long

Price ` 890

Price ` 990

products

Cotton Plain Wrap Applique Skirt

mull kalamkari Halter V neck elasticated Short Top

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Cotton printed A-Line Spiral Yoke Kurta medium Price ` 1190

Accessories Cotton Cs Sling Totemic mid e bag Price ` 990 metal Amna VHe Pm 4 mid Pendants

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metal Amna Ab Nm 28 mid Necklace Price ` 330

fABindiA : cochin . calicut . Kottayam . thrissur . trivandrum . Kollam For more details contact Ebin Jacob @ 09349890111 2012 JULY

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music & culture

Make a night of IT Text K.R. REJEESH Photos JINSON ABRAHAM

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T

he twilight milieu was perfectly set for unleashing their brimming excitement and to make them fall in a frenzied mood. The festive mood was palpable on all faces. Everyone was eagerly waiting for the culmination of the five-day-long celebration which was full of fun, frolic and invigoration. The scene was the closing ceremony of the 8th edition of Techa-Break 2012, the annual celebrations of the Technopark, held on the campus on May 25, 2012.

One of Asia’s finest technology parks, Technopark has 270 nationally and internationally reputed companies with over 37,000 IT professionals. The annual celebration was not only a platform to showcase their various talents but also a stress buster for their insipid working style. The valedictory function at Sangamam open air stage began with prize distribution for all the winners of various contests. Each team vied for upstaging each other in expressing their ecstasy while receiving their prizes.

It was eventually full of an action-packed prize distribution!! Contestants participated in various competitions including light music, classical music, dance, quiz, tug of war, DJ, comedy skit and cricket etc. Moreover, techies’ rally was a major attraction in their celebrations. To add flavour to the festivities, there were shops, food stalls by major brands.

Post the prize distribution, there was the

rocking performance of Bennet Rollen and the band. A musical show by playback singer-composer Vijay Prakash was another major attraction. His foot-tapping and occasional melody numbers took the packed audience by storm.

For a pepped up audience it was a real musical treat from the singer and his troupe. He started off with "Hosanna", the hit number from the movie "Vinnai Thandi Varuvaya" followed by a fusion number. The audience bopped and jigged to the tunes and the euphoria reached at the zenith of firmament.

Then Vijay diligently segued into the song "Ellaelama" from the movie "7aum Arivu" and next he crooned one of his popular songs in Tamil, "kadhal anukkal" from "Enthiran". Before singing it, Vijay told the audience that he was emotionally attached to the song "Maa" from "Tare Zameen Par". There was a popular demand for "Jai Ho" song from the film "Slumdog Millionaire", which had placed Vijay Prakash in the limelight. He also sang some old and latest Hindi songs.

Finally the wait for a Malayalam song ended when he entertained the gung ho crowd with the song "Oru madhurakinavin" from the movie "Kanamarayathu". Over all, it was a sizzling performance by Vijay Prakash who added that he had never hoped to get such a vibrant audience comprising IT professionals and their families. FWD Life was the exclusive media partner for the event.

The annual celebration was not only a platform to showcase their various talents but also a stress buster for their insipid working style

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music & culture

I am a fresher here; so I felt it was like a youth festival. It was a good experience. I liked the dance competition. Some companies stayed away from the fest.

Vishnupriya

I liked the dance contest. The comedy skit was nice and it’s hard to believe that it was enacted by people from corporate world. Firms like Infosys which has sufficient manpower didn’t take part in the fest. That was a drawback this year.

Shyama

It’s like a festival. It’s certainly a respite from hectic techie life. It helped connect people each other. I liked group dance and comedy skit.

Adarsh

As a fresher on the campus, it was entirely a new experience for me.

I liked the dance event. I would like to participate next year.

Yamuna. R. Nair

This is my third tech fest here. I think this is the best of all. This year, new events had been added. But there was low investment for the event and also there was lack of excitement, especially for rally. I liked DJ. Rajesh

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I liked the techie superstars contest and the DJ Night. I was also a participant in western music.

The fest gave me a chance to meet really talented people.

Though rally was not exceptional, it was fine. Conducting such fests for techies is really a good thing.

Govind

review

lights...camera...Movies Films released in June evoked a mixed response at the box office; although a couple of them grabbed the attention of filmbuffs.

FWD Life takes a look at some of the flicks.

1

Spirit

Malayalam

2

Bachelor Party Malayalam

3

hero

Malayalam

Plot

Plot

Plot

A film with social commitment; it throws light to the life of Raghunandan, an alcoholic.

The story is about five hapless young men, childhood friends, and partners in crime.

A film actress falls for the stunt assistant on shooting location and it incurs the ire of the film’s hero.

Like

Like

Like

Mohanlal, a treat to watch

Stylish in the making

Action sequences, Prithvi’s macho look

Dislike

Dislike

Dislike

A tad dragging in second half

Uncharacteristic content

Old wine in new bottle

Verdict

Verdict

Verdict

Excellent

Good

Average

4

Vadhyar Malayalam

5

Rowdy Rathore Hindi

6

Prometheus English

Plot

Plot

Plot

Due to insistence from family, an MBA aspirant hesitantly takes up teacher’s job in a school.

Shiva, a small-time thief, falls in love with Paro. But his meeting of a young girl changes his life.

This sci-fi movie deals with evolution of humans. Pace explorers on a mission to gain answers to unresolved questions.

Like

Like

Like

Relevant theme

Akshay Kumar at his best

Thrilling moments

Dislike

Dislike

Dislike

No novelty in narration

Cliched plot

Comparison to other sci-fi

Verdict

Verdict

Verdict

Watchable

Good

Good 2012 JULY

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wedding photography

My captures ofthe wedding per se are filled with candid moments, unusual angles and spontaneous expressions

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M

eet Anup Joseph aka Anup J Kat – The wedding photographer. We call him that coz that’s how he wants to be known as. Mind you, this is after being one of the best and the most sought after photographers both nationally and internationally. From Kerala, Bombay, Goa, Delhi, Lucknow, Pondicherry, Tirupur to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Qatar, Thailand and Maldives and (we are still counting here BTW) you name it, The man has created magic with his photographic brilliance. And here I was worrying to come up with fancy words to introduce this talented, innovative, always on the move photographer.

Our own Bengaluru-based Malayalee boy might appear to you as this serious nerdy photographer – but just within the first 5 minutes of your conversation – he is sure to clear all your doubts and give you a complete picture

on where those crazy yet coy, WOW pictures are coming from.

Tell us how was it all started?

My encounter with photography was pure chance. The Ad agency I used to work for required some images for an ad campaign and I was asked to shoot some photos. It started off then as a point and shoot camera thing and before I knew it, I was totally into it and I reached a point where cameras & photography became my passion and one fine day it was something I was doing full-time.

Wow, that’s interesting – so what was your next step?

I had a start and I knew there was no looking back from there. Since I had no formal training in photography, I give my full credit to Google and the ‘Wide Area Network’. It opened up

For this talented shutterbug, photography is not mere vocation; but also an art of taking pictures from unusual angles. He has created a magic with his brilliance in clicking candid wedding moments

KAt&the

Art of PhotogrAPhy Text JAMIA ZAHEER Photos ANUP J KAT

for me to all the knowledge I got about taking perfect pictures. Well, quote Malcolm Gladwell - “It’s all about the 10,000 hour rule. You do anything for a total of ten thousand hours and you are a genius at it.”

No formal training – did that ever bother you?

Not at all. In fact, I think that’s one of my biggest advantages. I don’t have any hard and set rules, I am not afraid or embarrassed to try, in short, I do not have any hang ups of making a complete idiot out of myself just to get that one nice click. To add, one of the best things about being a self-taught is I know how it is all going to be if you have the passion and dedication and just because of that I am always ready to teach people who are interested.

So how did it all start? And most

importantly – Why weddings?

I began shooting weddings when a friend requested me to shoot his wedding.To answer the second bit of your question - WHY NOT? Weddings are super fun and I love wedding food.

So what's Anup J Kat wedding photography?

My captures of the wedding per se are filled with candid moments, unusual angles and spontaneous expressions. No humdrum pictures with a multitude of guests and the couple sporting the same expression in the same pose. But I do assist in finding someone to take pictures of the guests while I work in the background.

Anup J Kat anup@gmail.com Mob : 9886754941

So whats your take on conventional wedding albums?

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wedding photography

Lip-locks at these They are very necessary. In India weddings are not merely a couple's affair. It’s more a exotic locations seem very family or a community affair. Every guest who natural, but Anup adds that he attends the wedding feel a sense of importance they see themselves featured in the famhas made one couple kiss for when ily album. the very first time right in front of his camera How does your shoot work start and end?

My first step is meeting the couple beforehand to assess the kind of photos they are looking for and to brainstorm about any ideas they might have. As a preparation for the big day, I like to get into the finer details of the wedding like, location so I can judge lights accordingly, bride’s make-up artist, how long thebride’s veil is going to be etc. On the day of the wedding, I begin with behind the scenes activity of the bride getting ready and slowly make my way to the ‘I do’s’. The entire walk to isle process isn’t an easy one and we all know how stressful it can get for the couple, keeping this in mind I set post-wedding shoots with the couple at some distinctive locations for the more fun portion of the project.

Where is the fun bit in all of this?

To me it’s my personal shoot with the couple is always more fun and most of the times more intimate than the wedding itself.

It gives the couple the freedom to just let go and this in turn gives me the liberty to capture great moments. I get a chance to experiment with unusual props — a cycle, a broken down car and even a pineapple.

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Locations also gets a lot exciting and adds up to the craziness like the beach or a church in Goa. Spurof the moment shots like amidst all the traffic on a busy street, a supermarket, an empty bus or even a railway track with the train approaching, make viewing more interesting. Lip-locks at these exotic locations seem very natural, but Anup adds that he has made one couple kiss for the very first time right in front of his camera.

So what is the wackiest shoot?

That would be the one I had done at a supermarket where the bride seems engrossed in buying groceries while her better half is seated on a shopping cart, pouting; expressions to die for.Another one would be, well, lip-locks at these exotic locations that I mentioned before seem very natural,but there was actually this one time where I actually made one couple kiss for the very first time right in front of my camera. That’s always going to stay very close to me. Oh, I just completed an underwater photography course in Thailand and did an underwater wedding shoot for a couple last October. This list is gonna be endless I guess.

Fun facts about you?

I have this little thing that I do during my shoots – I love to wear my ‘Superman’ T-shirt while shooting a wedding, simply for the fact that, when someone poses a question like “Who shot this pic?” the instant reply would be SUPERMAN.

chef of the month

The Japanese Connection Text AVEBANE Photos JINSON ABRAHAM

N

ot wanting to make a fool of ourselves by trying to eat with the chopstick, the FWD Life team spent time to become conversant with it, watching a few movies.

After a brief wait, we met Chef Jajo, (blink) jaw dropping beauty! Half of what we learned went out of the window. Obviously used to this reaction, she slowly took us through her ‘how to use chopstick with rubber band tied to your fingers’ method.

The food was fantastic, healthy too.

Tongarashi is the only spice used in Japanese food. This is like the Indian chilli powder. The food is healthy because a lot of vegetables and seafood and sauce— instead of salt, were used for flavour. Mirin and Sake (rice wine) are two main ingredients, besides radish, soya bean, tofu, and soya extracts, says the Chef.

"Yaki Tori" is the chef’s signature dish. It’s basically grilled pork, beef or fish. The highlight of the evening was, of course, the Sushi.

It’s essentially vinegared sticky rice rolled with Nori (processed seaweed) and filled with raw fish, meat and vegetables. Our favourite Sushi was another integral part of Japanese cuisine which is made using seaweed called nori that holds vinegared sticky rice. A variety of filling from raw fish to vegetables and sauces are also tucked in. It is served with pickled ginger.

My pick of the lot served to us, Tiger uranaki –

prawns upside rice roll. Hope Casino plans to bring more such interesting cuisine in future.

Talking about her interests in Japanese food, she says that helping her parents, as a young girl, in their Japanese restaurant in Myanmar was the beginning. Learning the basics from her Burmese mother and Japanese father helped her later pursue her culinary passion in Tokyo. There she imbibed the art of Japanese cooking. Her seven-year stint at ITC Gardenia, Bengaluru unfolded many opportunities. A self confessed shopaholic, her favourite hobby other than cooking is shopping. She enjoys eating Chicken Kabab, Dosa. When it comes to Kerala cuisine, she loves the fish with coconut gravy and ladies finger gravy.

Jajo hopes to develop an Indian variant of the Sushi using Indian raw fish (now every ingredient is imported from Japan). Her experiment with Chicken Sushi was well received at the Westin, Pune. She plans to open a Japanese restaurant of her own in India. But we didn’t get an answer if she gonna settle down with an Indian guy…Towards the end of our meal, she almost ran towards us , staring intensely at the bamboo shoot and leaves that I was chewing, she asked softly, “Do you eat the banana leaves in which food is served in Kerala? “No” I replied. “Then why are you eating the bamboo leaves on which the food is served?,” she said.

Recently held Japanese Food fest by Chef Jajo at Tharavadu restaurant in Casino Hotel, Kochi, was really a riveting experience

2012 JULY

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Bon , Appetit

food

Photos JAMESH KOTTAKAL

Get ready to fall for the magic menu which is perfectly apt for gourmets. These palatable dishes will certainly provide your taste buds a new experince

3rd oor, goldsouke grande, Vytilla, cochin 682019

Prawn cocktail ingredients Mayonnaise White pepper powder Salt to taste Tomato sauce Medium prawns (boiled)-8 Ice berg lettuce Chopped parsley

method Take one cocktail glass and put shredded ice berg lettuce in it Cocktail sauce (mix of mayonnaise, white pep per powder, salt ,tamato sauce) mix with medium prawns Cocktail sauce with medium prawns put on iceberg lettuce Garnish it with boiled egg slice, and chopped parsley 58

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JULY 2012

ingredients (chicken fried rice) Basmati rice Egg Carrot Beans Celery White pepper powder Spring onion Soya sauce Shredded chicken Sun flower oil

method Heat the sunflower oil in kadai Put beaten egg on it, and add boiled vegetables SautĂŠ it, add boiled basmatirice, and add salt, white pepper powder, sugar, and little soya sauce and shredded chicken.

Stir it very well Add spring onion and celery on it and transfer into a bowl.

Transfer Chilly chichen to the bowl where fried rice kept Make one bull’s eye and put on the chilly chicken and fried rice bowl and serve it

chicken triple fried rice

chicken Alakive

ingredients Chicken breast Butter Rosemary Thyme Oregano Parsleys Chopped garlic Maida Bread crumbs

method Take 1 big splited chicken breast coat with Maida and beaten egg white mix.

Fill the stuffing mix in the chicken breast and coat it again with egg crumbs.

Keep it in a fridge for 5 minutes Fry it in oil at low flame, till its colour change to golden brown.

Served with boiled green peas, mashed potato, French fries and grilled onion 2012 JULY

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architecture

With the splendour of waterfront living and luxury of world class shopping, Sobha City might be the sole place where you realize your dream home

art oF LiVinG Text Ar.VANDANA VISWANATH Photos JAMESH KOTTAKAL

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W

hat does make your life more beautiful? Yes, you might have umpteen reasons. And certainly your home must be one of them.

Then imagine that you are about to experience the ultimate luxury of waterfront living; that too in Thrissur, the cultural capital of Kerala.

The dream turns reality now in the form of Sobha City. Located on the Thrissur Guruvayur highway, the project Sobha City is conceived by Sobha Developers Ltd, which was found in 1995 by Mr P.N.C. Menon.

The township overlooks a 6.5 acre factitious lake with waterfront villas, super luxury apartments matching international standards, serene greenscape, a global mall and luxury business hotel. The project cost is estimated to be approximately ` 8.5 billion.

Master plan A grand entry welcomes you to the city with a

two-lane 32.4 mtr road leading inside. The lake with 10m wide walkway is centrally located with residential zone on the north portion of the lake and commercial zone to the south.

Twenty-five villas (Sobha Malachite) with vernacular architecture overlook the lake with high rise residential blocks (Sobha Topaz, Sobha Sapphire and Sobha Jade) comprising of 648 apartments.

A 40,000sqft club house stands adjacent to these apartments. The commercial space includes a world class business hotel with corporate offices, a, centrally air-conditioned global mall with entertainment centre ,food court, restaurants, underground parking, 7-screen multiplex, amusement park, gaming arcade, multi-specialty hospital offering 24X7 advanced healthcare facilities, ayurvedic spa and herbal baths.

The eastern corner has got 40 lifestyle villas.

The whole master plan is a perfect merge of open and closed spaces.

"

It’s a transformation as people look for comfortable and luxury stay without compromising on quality.

With the facilities we provide, Sobha City so far becomes the largest integrated township in Kerala

Stalin Baby

Head - Sales & Marketing

2012 JULY

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architecture

Mr. Thomas Poonollil (MD, Ephphatha Speech & Hearing) & Manju Thomas

Mr. Kishore P & Kala Kishore

Sobha City mall spreads over Lake Spreading over an area of 6.5 acre, this is one an area of 4.7 acres of the biggest rainwater harvesting facilities in overlooking the lake with the country. This acts as a storm water conveyance and storage and enriches the eco system more than and helps balance the water table in the region.

3 lakh sq ft to be This man-made lake caters to the portable accommodated. This makes water requirement of the whole township. room for a 7-screen multi- Villas plex, restaurants and Sobha Malachite’s are four-bedroom exclusively designed super luxury villas with a super food court built-up area of 4062.3 sq ft standing on 11.7 cents plot each. Each villa is G+1 with two car parking and with hard and soft landscape.

Living, Commercial & Common Area Nine apartment towers soar high in the sky in the northern portion of the site overlooking the lake. Sobha Topaz, the first one constructed, consists of 216 super luxury apartments in 26 storey skyscrapers in three towers. Each apartment has self-sufficient car parking and elevators. These apartments stand as a landmark in the whole city.

Sobha City mall spreads over an area of 62

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4.7 acres overlooking the lake with more than 3 lakh sq ft to be accommodated. This makes room for a 7-screen multiplex, restaurants and food court. The business hotel adjacent to the mall with reserved office spaces will cater to city’s corporate needs.

About 4.7 acres of land is set aside exclusively for play area and open greenery. A jogging track runs all around the lake and a walk way extending from the entrance all through the township. Greenery is all there in the form of blooming landscape, meandering tree-lined walking trails, expansive boulevard, manicured lawns, play areas and promenades.

Network The access system has been perfectly planned in the whole city with wide roads and pathways. One enters to see a four-lane road with a roundabout. The flow of traffic has been perfectly organized with this 32 m wide road on par with international standards. The streets are well planned with internal access roads and service roads.

With such mind-blowing facilities, living here would be a riveting experience.

lounge

Chill out with a pint of beer or Stadia’s signature drinks at Holdiay Inn’s exclusive sports themed bar –Stadia. Be it the PGA Tour, Euro Cup or even the World Cup, the 4 LCD screens cater to all sports enthusiasts. Stadia also houses 2 pool tables for guests to unwind and Chef Sanjay Thomas, true to his word promises an array of sumptuous food options inspired by local food produce. Giving attention to detail the interiors, the menu and absolutely everything about Stadia screams ‘Sports’ and is every jocks haven!

S I G NAT ur e C o CK TA I LS

STADIA

CUE BALL A dream through the bluish green ground which has a treasure of white and dark rum locked with litchi and passion. The sweet sugar rim around will definitely take you around

What Goes In White rum-30ml, dark rum-30ml, passion syrup-15ml, litchi juice120ml, Bluecuracao-15ml, sugar syrup-15ml, Glass- martini

STADIA SPIKE

FIRE BALL

Vodka spiked into muddled orange ‘n’ lime with apple,red chilli and fizzy 7up. Stadia's Signature drink got it all

A magical mix of orange juice peach syrup and cranberry juice infused with Vodka.

What Goes In

What Goes In

vodka- 60ml, lime-4 wedges , orange4cubes, red chilli-1 no , apple syrup10ml, 7 up- top it up, garnish- orange peel, glass- tom Collins

Vodka- 60ml, Orange juice – 60 ml, Cranberry 30 ml, Peach syrup - 10 ml, glass- Tom Collins

2012 JULY

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THEATRE FEST

AT JT PAC

AADHE ADHURE (HINDI) Mohan Rakesh’s tragic comedy "Aadhe Adhure" (The Incomplete Ones), directed by Lillete Dubey, is a powerful and moving portrait of a middle-class marriage in contemporary society. It explores themes of fragmentation and incompleteness at individual, familial and social levels. It tells the story of Savitri, played by Lillete Dubey, who is caught in the midst of an unemployed son, a promiscuous teenage daughter and a husband who fails to provide emotional and financial security. Her angst drives her to seek fulfillment in relationships outside the marriage, only to realise that appearances are deceptive and men are essentially the same.

"Aadhe Adhure" is Lillete Dubey’s first Hindi play and the 25th play as director. “It’s written about 41 years ago. Savitri is one of the Hindi theatres first feminist kind of icon. She is unhappy and looking for alternative relationship outside the marriage. She is looking for a ‘whole man’. The play is written not in a feminist’s point of view.

In fact, Mohan has given a strong counter point of view at the end,” said Lillete Dubey, who considers theatre as her first love and finds lot more satisfaction in it than in cinema.

The cast includes Mohan Agashe, Ira Dubey, Rajeev Sidhartha and Anuschka Sawhney. Aadhe Adhure has been awarded the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for its theatrical brilliance.

LOVE LETTERS (ENGLISH) This heart-warming play tells the story of Melissa Gardner and Andy Ladd who fall in love through letters since their school days. They share a lifetime of experiences through a series of letters and notes written from the age of six to sixty.

Though they are married and lead separate life, they share their love through letters. Andy, played by Rajit Kapur, is portrayed as a serious, down-to-earth attorney, while Melissa, played by Shernaz Patel, is a lively, free-spirited artist. But these diametrically opposite personalities are soul mates and their letters take the audience on a bittersweet journey through boarding schools, marriage, children, divorce and missed opportunities.

At one stage they decide to unite in life. But once Andy becomes the Senator, he declines Melissa’s wish. As a result, Melissa becomes hysteric and finds resort in suicide. The play has been directed

by Rahul da Cunha. Opened in 1993, the play has completed over 250 theatrical performances at different venues.

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theatre

Class of ’84 (English) Directed by Rahul da Cunha, "Class of ’84" is a toast of friendship and takes you on a rollercoaster ride peppered with humour and pathos that surrounds a tightly-knit group of friends. Seven friends, who graduated from St. Xaviers College in 1984, meet years later to mourn the death of an 8th friend. Though life has taken them in different directions, they all remained friends. But when death tragically claims one friend, the group is emotionally distraught and struggle to come in terms with their loss. The cast includes Sohrab Ardeshir, Rajit Kapur, Shernaz Patel, Devika Shahane Punjabi, Rituraj Singh, Dipika Roy Kewalramani, Joy Sengupta and Zafar Karachiwala. The play has completed over 200 shows and is one of the longest running English plays in India.

Four Square (English)

Miss Bindass (English)

Directed by Danesh Khambata and Meherzad Patel, "Four Square" is a collection of four brilliant short plays. The cast includes Mihir Mehra, Danesh Irani, Sajeel Parakh, Siddharth Merchant, Ameen Kazerouni, Maanvi Gagroo, Shikha Talsania, Hormuz Bana and Danesh Khambata.

It is a bold and riotous comedy based on the questionable principle that ‘opposite attract’. The play revolves around a woman with no morals who collides with a man who tries to lead a morally correct life. The play raises doubts about if these contrary personalities can co-exist in the same environment and sustain a fruitful relationship.

The light-hearted romantic drama exploits the twists and turns of an erroneous relationship. The cast includes Danesh Irani, Maanvi Gagroo, Ameen Kazerouni, Shikha Talsania and Pheroza Modi. The play is directed by Sam Kerawala.

"Considering my age, I’m aware of the kind of roles I will be offered in films. But as an actor, my first preference is Theatre where I get satisfaction."

Lillete Dubey Mohanlal watching the play Aadhe Adhure at JT Pac 2012 JULY

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performers at JT Pac Sitar maestro Prateek Chaudhuri takes aficionados to the world of tranquility and serenity as he plays the strings of sitar heralding the dominion of Indian classical music

STRINGS

OF EMOTIONS Using Indian classical music as a medium to create world peace, the maestro firmly believes that music can be a perfect tool for creating harmony within oneself and in the world

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T

he theatre doors opened to gleaming lights with the illusion of a star-studded roof and a platform set amidst the stage for a unique musical feast to enthrall the audience. The theatre had an ambience set to unleash the real power of Indian classical music. Sitar maestro Prateek Chaudhuri was ready with the magical chords to disseminate the music hidden in his sitar strings. It was a performance that promised to resonate the rich vibes of Indian culture and heritage.

Hailing from a family of rich musical tradition, Delhi-born Prateek Chaudhuri is one of the fastest sitar players in the world. He has done wonders with his 17-fretted sitar. Following the Gharana of the Great Mia Tansen, Prateek Chaudhuri, the son of Padmashree Debu Chaudhuri, is the ninth generation of Senia gharana (The followers of Tansen’s school of music).

This percussionist is of the opinion that our rich culture and heritage should be preserved without sullied by the western influence.

“Change is inevitable but if adapted and perceived in the right sense, it would enhance the beauty of the core form. In music too, many misleading information is being taught,” Prateek said. “The fusion form that is followed by many traditional players today is actually like a bouquet of flowers of different colours and senses, which when come together look nice

Text ASHWATHy S Photos NIKAS NEO

and sound nice. It should not be like half-baked cakes coming together to show some rock or pop by forming a band.”

Setting an example, Prateek Chaudhuri has formed his own fusion band- Sitar Ecstasy. It’s a modern fusion band that attempts to fuse Indian classical music with Arabic and Western.

Apart from maintaining the tradition over nine generations, what makes Prateek’s style unique is his Gharana - The Senia gharana.

Moreover, sticking on to Dhrupad style and applying a note and developing his own style of eight-and-a-half to nine-and-a-half beats and playing 19 or 21 notes in one second make this sitarist the best among his peers.

Using Indian classical music as a medium to create world peace, the maestro firmly believes that music can be a perfect tool for creating harmony within oneself and in the world. Prateek Chaudhuri also holds to his credit some magical concert performances in Japan and Delhi that had invoked rain. With the sitar strings showing the power of invoking varied emotions, this is perhaps the best drug for creating world peace.

At present, he not only performs across the world, but is also an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Music of the University of Delhi.

Also he is the author of ‘Plucked Instruments of Northern India’. The sitar virtuoso is a foodie and enjoys cooking. He has a collection of 60 books of cooking.

2012 JULY

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cityscape

eyes away from the

Bo obs mister!

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What will happen if books with voyeuristic content got ‘misplaced’ in a store? Is it a bold move by the shop owner to snuff out customers’ sneak peek? Read about the impact it creates…

C

Text RONNIE KURIAKOSE

radled between humour and psychology, the erotic shelf at Reliance Timeout, Oberon Mall is constantly bombarded by both saints and rogues. Earlier, it was ill-placed in a shelf where perverted gawkers could stand, stare, and admire in length those illustrious details peacefully. However, the new setting has spoiled the game. This radical move by the Timeout employees, either knowingly or not, has put an end to those good old days, observes my friend who’d been a regular gawker. What was then the urban secret is now out in the open. Anyone who trod into Timeout Store and head over to the CCD booth to have a coffee, have to shun away to their right to avoid being caught staring at those boobs, err… books! Gulping down a coffee, I spent an entire evening counting those misfortunate ones that did stare, or at least tried to. “Eye Away from the Boobs, Mister … or you’ll go down in my weekly satire”.

Well, looks like some did, despite my threat.

The Bold and the Beautiful Waddling in her tight jeans and shrunk into her tight tops, she seemed the exact personification of our old Seemachechi on the cover of Vogue magazine. She came, she saw, she conquered. There was nothing that erred her, not even me.

She rushed to the shelf never wandering, ruffled through the pages determined, and stopped once or twice to still her eyes in great observation. If one could gape at someone and cause pain, then she’d be dead by now. A million eyes were on her wondering what the hell she was doing. “She is probably taking one or two love-making methods to her bed-room. God save her poor husband” ascertained my friend before brutalizing another burger. A good ten minutes later,

she nodded to herself, called over one of the staff and got it packed. Looks like one or two love-making methods wouldn’t do for that one.

away and turned to my friend, who turned to me only to go frail and nearly faint.

Warning: 18+ Please!

He was bald headed, fat and nerdy. Yet his regal suit, well tugged shirt and that robust green tie commanded respect.

We actually took him for the manager of this place until he trod over to our ‘sacred’ shelf. However, there was this sense of determination about him, a ruthless impatience as he ruffled through the pages like an unemployed IIT-ian seeking activation codes to an atomic bomb.

Despite his intellect, it took him a good long minute to come to the realization that what he is seeking is not there.

He did grin though, like I do when some wrong turn brings me to a coffee stand that I never knew existed.

With another academic year dawning on us, it was no surprise that tots and toddlers outnumbered us at Timeout that day. And it seems like most parents were unaware or totally ignorant of the existence of a complete shelf of books about everything that they don’t want their kids to see. For kid after kid ran amok around the shelf, calling unwanted attention to themselves and those ‘sacred’ books.

What if some kid get their hands on that book?

I didn’t think any further in fear of bursting my veins. Will he/she turn page after page hoping to find Aladdin in it? Or would she yell out to her parents, “Hey Papa, Mama – look!” But those speculation almost got alarmingly true when one kid started to show off his skills on how to climb a shelf. Luckily, his mother rushed over and dragged him by the heels.

Lovers Trauma I’ve been single most of my life, so what-it-is-to-be-in-love feeling eludes me often. But I’ve seen a fair share of young pairs in my 20-year-old existence. I’ve seen the bad, the brave, the bitter, the bitchy, the bragging, the bubbly, the busy, the boring, the boozing, the bossy, the brainy and the Buddhist kinds. But never in my wildest dreams have I imagined a pair that gapes at these books together, hand in hand. What are they thinking?

Wait… What are WE thinking?? They could be scholars that research on those topics. Or they could even be the ones that wrote that book or the very least, got it published. I shunned that thought

Seeking Atomic Bombs!

Shocking Ending An iced-tea declared our evening to an end. It was way past nine when I got my notepads stacked. We weren’t the one who embraced bags. We are more used to carrying our books in hand, but having them stacked according to height often makes it easier to hold. After a small chat with my CCD friend, I turned to leave. But my friend was nowhere to be found. I texted him not twice but thrice, and even called him up on phone, but he didn’t show up.

Just when I was about to leave, he rushed towards me with a big wide grin on his face. He answered my question before I could word it, “Thanks for calling me out this evening mate. I learned one important lesson.” I glared at him suspiciously. “And what is that?” I asked him.

“Girls DIG this stuff. So I bought one.”

And then he produced one of those books for the whole world to see.

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Thattathin Marayathu audio launch

T

he music launch of Vineeth Sreenivasan’s new film "Thattathin Marayathu" held recently at IMA Hall, Kochi was really a starstudded affair. Moreover, the function was graced by the presence of megastar Mammootty. Produced by Sreenivasan and Mukesh under the banner of Lumiere Film Company, the film has Nivin Pauly and Isha Talwar as lead actors.

Actors Indrajith, Kunchacko Boban, Fahad Fazil, Gautami Nair, Aparna Nair, Dulquer Salman and directors Lal Jose, B. Unnikrishnan, Sameer Thahir and several prominent figures from the industry attended the event.

Lead pair Who's who

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I'm here Buddies

Together

Time to jig In tune

e album One for th

Avial Sizzles @ CASINO HOTEL Check it out

It's cool

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health

HEALTH CONCERNS

FROM ALL OVER Q

: I am Vivek, 24 Yrs., I smoke regularly 5-6 times a day. If I go to a fitness centre will I be able to perform activity like others in the gym? : Hi Vivek, By putting this question you are already aware of the aftermaths of smoking. Yes, of course, smoking will affect the performance level as your cardio respiratory endurance will be low compared to others. I will suggest you not to smoke before and after for two hours of your workouts. You can gradually reduce the smoking habits by diverting your interests towards a healthy living.

A Jaish George fitness expert from gold’s gym cochin, answers your queries on health and fitness every month. write to him at vyttila.cochin@goldsgymindia.com with “know your own strength” in the subject line

Q

: Hi this is James, I would like to get an advice as for the past two years I have been suffering from low back pain. Is it advisable for me to exercise in a fitness centre? : Hi James, Considering your medical history, and with a proper diagnosis and fitness assessment, ensure that there is no neurological problem. With Physiotherapist guidance you can start strengthening the affected area.

This will help you rectify the underlying problem. My advice is to get enroll in a professional fitness centre to improve your fitness level.

A

Q

: Hi, I am Arjun, 29yrs, 5’11 height, I weigh 68 kg, I want to gain weight. Please suggest an appropriate way to add some pounds?

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A

: Hi Arjun, considering your requirement, I suggest you to ensure with your concerned physician that you don't have any underlying medical problems. Weight gain is as simple as weight loss. It is easy to gain fat mass but tough to increase lean body mass. Diet like high protein, high calorie, with some added diet supplementation can help you to gain lean mass along with strength, weight training under proper guidance.

Q

: Hi I am seema, 25 I am a person who does yoga regularly but would like to join Gym. My concern is if we stop the gym after a year or so will we blot? Is that true or which is better? : Hi Seema, It is very common question asked by women. To tell you the truth exercise does not necessarily mean a gym routine.

It is not a challenge to the body or to our personal will. Fattening or blotting happens due to our sedentary lifestyle. Exercise is actually any activity or any programme that can keep our heart pumping. Find an activity that you enjoy and get acquainted with a companion to make it more vibrant and happening. Sketch a schedule that is fitting with your lifestyle and your temperament. You could choose anything from yoga, aerobics, or a gym. Find an exercise that will energize both your body and mind.

A

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entertainment

MUSIC OF DIFFERENT GENRES Patchwork, a music album with the compilation of English, Hindi, Malayalam and Instrumental of various genres was released in Kochi recently. Composed by Ifthikar Ali, the album was produced by Tune4 Music Group in association with Sound Factory India. The project has 17 tracks featuring artists from nine countries across the globe mostly collaborated virtually over the Internet.

Tune4 Music Group (Formerly Tune4 Entertainments) was founded in Chennai, in August 10, 2008 with the blessings of “Mozart of Madras”, A.R. Rahman. Sound Factory India is a Music Production House based in Bengaluru.

business

MERC UNVEILS SELF-LEASE PLAN

rajasree motors delivers Kerala's first mercedes- Benz c-class on self - lease to mr. m. A. habeeb, managing Partner of hycount moulders (third from left).

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book review

one moment

this is not a test

Adapt

Author: Christina Bride Expected Publication: June 26, 2012

Author: Courtney Summers Expected Publication: June 19, 2012

Author: Tim Harford Expected Publication: June 2012

Gist: Latest novel from the author of The Tension of Opposites, One Moment is the story of Maggie Reynolds and rendersa mysterious, searing look at how an instant can change everything!

Gist: It’s the end of the world. Six students have taken cover in Cortege High but the dead outside won’t stop pounding on the doors. When everything is gone, what do you hold on to?

Gist:The author introduces a new way of thinking to solve world's most urgent problems.He says that we must adapt - improvise rather than plan, work from the bottom up, take baby steps.

A wanted man

shadow of night

the mark of Athena

Author: Lee Child Expected Publication: Sept11, 2012

Author: Deborah Harkness Expected Publication: July 10, 2012

Author: Rick Riordan Expected Publication: June 26, 2012

Gist: Four people in a car, hoping to make it to Chicago by morning. One man driving, eyes on the road. Another man next to him, telling stories that don’t add up.

Gist: Picking up from A Discovery of Witches’ cliffhanger ending, Shadow of Night plunges Diana and Matthew into Elizabethan London, a world of spies, subterfuge.

Gist: The third book in the Heroes of Olympus series will unite them with Jason, Piper, and Leo. But they number only six--who will complete the Prophecy of Seven?

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launch

Audi introduces its compact luxury suV – Audi Q3 in the indian market This youngest member of the Audi Q family is equipped with a powerful and efficient 2.0 TDI quattro engine, the Audi Q3 is priced at ` 27,01,000 onwards for the base grade and ` 32,46,000 onwards for the high grade

Mr.Mitesh K.Patel Director, Audi Kochi

Mr.Jacob Eapen Sam CEO, Audi Kochi

apps Here's a list of some mind-boggling mobile applications that impressed the hell out of FWD team

Bump

Pandora

Cost: Free Available: Android and Iphone Bump is a fun (and useful) idea for sharing info between two phones using the accelerometer, and it works across Android and iPhone.

Cost : Free Available: Iphone, Ipad, Balckberry,Android Its a streaming “radio station” for the Internet age.

rating

rating

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wikipanion Cost:Free Available :Iphone, Ipad.

A dedicated app for Wikipedia website is a better bet. This app is a freebie which gives you quick access to whatever odd fact you've just unearthed.

rating

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gadgets HengeDocks AirDock

The AirDock is an aesthetically designed desktop dock for your Macbook Air.

What FWD Liked: Aesthetic design compliments the MacBook well.

Superb way to use a MacBook Air connected to a large screen.

Version that support 11 inch and 13 inch Clips to organize all those cables and wires

The New Macbook Air (Pick of the month) The new MacBook Pro was surely the eyeball turner during the latest edition of Apple’s WWDC where the device was unveiled. The full retina display with a resolution of 2880 by 1800 is truly spectacular and miles ahead of anything we have seen on a laptop ever. TheMacBook’s storage is purely flash based and it therefore promises blazing speed. Battery life of 7 hours, quad-core Intel i7 processors, fast graphics card, USB 3.0 ports - the new Mac has it all. The only downside is the huge price tag. But take my word for it - if you have the money to spend - then this one’s well worth it.

What we disliked Just one extra USB port No ethernet ports on the dock Price: $ 90 FWD Rating:

Energy Egg EnergyEgg is a device that plugs into a power socket, monitors the room for presence of people and turns your electrical appliances on and off automatically by detecting motion.

What FWD liked Accurate motion sensing Cuts your electricity bill!

Can also be used as a wireless switch

What we disliked Expensive if you have a lot of devices to control

Price : ` 1.5 Lakh FWD Rating :

Price: ` 4,000 FWD Rating :

Canon 650D The latest entry level DSLR from Canon

What FWD liked Phase detection autofocus 18 Megapixels USB/HDMI/Wireless A very usable touch screen interface Solid performance for stills

What we disliked Video performance could be better Price: $ 1,100 FWD Rating : 78

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Archos 101 G9 The new generation Android tablet from Archos.

What FWD liked Sports the sweet new Android ICS! Packs a 1.5 GHz processor Good viewing angles

What we disliked Screen clarity isn’t anywhere near AMOLED Build quality not up to the mark Price: ` 21,000 FWD Rating :

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wtf

What the

f@#k

It depends on the mentality of the individuals who prefer it. But for a person who favours it might not have the right to yearn for a virgin partner. I would say 'no' to it as I feel it's against our social values and culture. Moreover, mutual trust among the partners is important in life.

Nivin Venugopal Marketing professional

FWD readers respond to the topic of pre-marital sex.

Here’s what our public poll revealed

We should change our attitude to accept the fact that Sex is a necessity. Pre-marital or post-marital should not be await till marriage to have sex, but it must be safe and disciplined holding greater respect for the partner.

Rahul Ravishob Marketing professional

Most of the people are not strong enough to accept it.

We are possessive, selfish about our partner and we expect a virgin to marry. Generally, people lose trust in their partner when they come to know about premarital sex of the partner. Let’s not break more hearts and get hearts broken.

Ashok Kumar Software Engineer

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" Whatever people choose to do is their own choice and today it seems like no one really cares about having pre-marital sex. For me, sex is something that’s special and it’s even more special to have it with the right person at the right time. If you are sure about yourself and genuinely in love and trust with your man, you need not think twice about going ahead SAVITHA AJAI, Manager, Content Services Pre-marital sex is a matter of personal choice. Our cultural and social ties make me abstain from the it. I strongly disagree to it as I consider some sacredness and precious feel for sex instead of mere pleasure. I will have sex with the one whom I feel as mine all through my life and that’s only after marriage.

Saranya Thaloor Journalist

I would say ‘no’ to it. In our conventional society, such things are not acceptable though it’s a matter of a personal choice. And I don't think people who involved in it will reveal it to their partners. However, I am not against those who prefer it.

Siyad Business

No of Issues

Cover Price

Discount Price

12

600

550

24

1200

1100

36

1800

( 1 Year )

( 2 Years )

( 3 Years )

Tick

1700

( Free Reebok Shades )

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rNI reg. No. KereNG /2012 /42759

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