issue 01 vOl 01 | nOv’11 |
lifestyle travel leisure entertainment lOunGe
60
Life
are we too conservative? Kochi International Fashion Week v1.0 Oommen Chandy Man in A Hurry Prasanth Parameswaran Life on the Fast Lane Das Sreedharan Make Food, Not War Follow us on
Life
NOVEMBER 2011 • VOL 01 • ISSUE 01
MANAGING EDITOR
Arun Balachandran* ISSUE EDITOR
Abraham Tharakan ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Nanditha Nair FEATURES WRITER
Gisen George Varghese CREATIVE HEAD
Srinivas Eegalapati ASSOCIATE DESIGNER
Subin Beats LAYOUT ASSISTANT
Sreekanth.S.Nath PHOTOGRAPHER
Jamesh Kottakkal ILLUSTRATIONS
Santhosh K M MARKETING
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Welcome to FWD, Welcome forward This magazine has been conceived with you, the reader in mind. Our mission is simple: Redefine the existing patterns in lifestyle reporting. Our wish to bring about a magazine that will be the destination for dreamers and pioneers alike resulted in the birth of FWD Life. Lifestyle journalism is considered as trivial writing in India, but for FWD LIFE it’s the stories of our times, much like the “Devil wears Prada” quote on how a local department store’s cloth rack is actually influenced by scores of lives. We are looking for the stories behind the stories, the “whys” and “hows” of events that happen around us. We hope to showcase it through a mix of reportage, commentaries, criticism, satire and comics. Our contributing writers and artists are people, who in their own ways, are attempting to bring change in their respective fields. Thus address a community that is discerning in their taste and judgement. Our efforts are to serve our biggest stakeholders , the readers, with the best. Our thoughts and spirits are high. Read on. Editorial Team
*Responsible for selection of news under the PRB Act.
Cover Model Dr. Mini Vettical Cover Photo Jamesh Kottakkal
www.fwdlife.in 2011 NOV | FWD LIFE | 03
Contents storyboard
street talk
05 Incredible India!
40 Advertising: Emerging trends
young initiatives
persona
07 Mind Helix twisted but straight
08 Home Bound space frame
42 Dr. Mini Vettical maison couture
46 The art of designing dreams
plat(e)onic
48 A heaven for Hell’s Angels made in heaven
49 Chandam Charthal no-mads
50 Venice to Venice diaspora diaries
09 Architecture and Identity
52 Kochi Pattanam
spotlight - prasanth parameswaran
health desk
10 Life on the fast lane main story
54 It’s in your hands, master
14 Are we too conservative?
on the road
18 Man in a hurry
56 Power Play - Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder
reverse brain drain
troubled cleft
in focus
22 Home calling
58 Music’s Kiss of Death
spotlight - das sreedharan
viewfinder
24 Make Food, Not War
60 Mea Culpa
balance sheet
cover to cover
27 Hope, Fear, Greed
61 Of Smoke and Wars
photofeature
family matters
28 “Tiger Tiger” cried the Boy
62 The curious case of Chinese Toys
cameralia-kifw
33 They came, we saw, they conquered indulgence
38 Haute Horlogerie
10
One ball was all it took for Prasanth Parameswaran to be propelled from the obscure world of a journeyman cricketer to the limelight reserved for the next big things of Indian cricket.
04 | FWD LIFE | NOV 2011
63 Gadgets
18
“There is a group of people who cannot wait until the fruits of this development reaches all the levels of the community. “
persona Dr. Mini Vettical 42
64 Potpourri 65 Star Gaze 66 The Urban Yogi
“ I learnt so much from my parents and grandparents. I learned how food is grown and how much pain goes into nurturing the land. This helped me to develop the Rasa philosophy.”
24
Street Talk
Incredible India! By Vinod Karimatt
A scene from Hampi, Karnataka
If your camera captures any intersesting moments, send to content@fwdmedia.in
2011 NOV | FWD LIFE | 05
buy more spend less
Young Initiatives
Mind Helix By Kochitty
Their companionship was not formulated for a company, but a company evolved from their companionship. Through their underlined bonding with each other, the extremely talented,
trust. We don’t think that we could ever repay the kind of effort they are taking. One will never get this level of dedication just by paying money. The truth is they are risking a lot.
Challenges faced in the journey The major challenge any entrepreneur faces is financial challenge. At a time, when you have lots of ideas and human resource but don’t have money, entrepreneuship ends up in failure. We started with the money we got from freelancing. Luckily, our product became nationally as well as
highly confident, ambitious friends, Kallidil Kalidasan, Nandakumar
internationally famous. It was a moment of pride
K.S, Thomas Antony and Christin George, in six months, successfully
for our families. They realised that ours is not a
became entrepreneurs and nurtured a company.
futile effort.
Setback moments in your journey
The Spark
as the sixth top mobile company by ISBI,
We had many setbacks in our journey. One
One day we were having coffee from a restau-
the startup companies association in India.
incident which we can’t forget happened while
rant, discussing the problems in the transport
Microsoft has also shown interest in working
we were in college. We got a project from a
industry; crammed buses, auto rickshaws and
with us to make these applications corporate.
client in Delhi. We did the project very enthu-
their high fare, at that time an idea for an auto
siastically. But he cheated us without giving us
rickshaw meter came up. We went home and
Your attitude
the remuneration which amounted to Rupees
four days later we had our first product and
We are not at all modest. We took a position
2 lakhs. We didn’t lose hope and become
between confidence and arrogance. We
desperate. Instead we learned a lesson from
were and are confident about each other.
the incident. We don’t consider it as a failure;
During discussion stage we fight with each
we believe that there is nothing called failure.
we named it Tuk Tuk meter. This application calculates the exact auto fare using a mobile. It got a lot of positive response; more than 30000 people downloaded it so far. Our second product, The Sentinel, which is a security application, also got a lot of acclaim. It is a mobile application which helps anyone in distress. With a single press it will send an alert to a relative or friend giving the exact location. It will also send an email marking their position in the map.
We want to be a complete mobile solution provider. We want to do anything and everything related to mobile phones.
other. The confidence and strong bonding between us is the secret behind our success.
Future plans We want to be a complete mobile solution
Positive developments We got wide recognition. We are recognized
The best thing about your team
provider. We want to do anything and everything
Our employees have great confidence in us.
related to mobile phones. To start a Research
They are investing in us only due to their
and Development wing is our future vision. 2011 NOV | FWD LIFE | 07
Twisted But Straight
Dhanya Varma The author is an experienced media professional and she hosts a popular talk show called Talking Point.
Home bound! M
any of us who have lived out side
or Bihar even Delhi, we still have a long long
Point. With more than sixteen odd channels
the state return to Kerala, primarily
way to go on the issue of gender parity.
vying for viewer`s attention, how could a talk
due to personal compulsions. My
When not stepping out of the house after
show on a cable channel like Rosebowl, gain so
reasons for return too were personal. Having
8pm becomes advisable for women, when
much popularity. Support for this show came
lived in Mumbai for more than a decade and
women are constantly abused and molested
from unexpected quarters, from the youth. I have
a major part of it as a professional with Star
in public transport, when onlookers and fellow
understood that there is a growing population
TV, I have to say that no place is more liberat-
travellers refuse to react and come to the aid of a
of us malayalees especially youngsters who
ing or safe for a woman than Mumbai.
woman in distress, when girls are raped and then
want to see change, who want to see a fresh
sold by their fathers, when the state drowns itself
take on things, who want the state to grow into
pendently, opened my mind to different ways
The city coerced me to think and live inde-
in alcohol on every festive occasion, we have a
a progressive, inclusive society, rid of the evils
of life; in short I became non- judgemental to a
lot to be ashamed of. I feel that as a responsible
of our times. There is an increased sensitivity to
great extent. I was allowed to be the person that
society we still haven’t moved much ahead in
environmental issues, concern for the under-
I am, minus any pressures from the family or soci-
spite of the literacy, in spite of the rich cultural
privileged. Every time I meet the panel on the
ety .That was the biggest gift Mumbai gave me.
history. We still have to take shape into a progres-
shoot, I am amazed that our tiny state has so many progressive thinkers. So why aren’t we hearing their voices anywhere in the media?
I feel that as a responsible society we still haven’t moved much ahead in spite of the literacy, in spite of the rich cultural history. We still have to take shape into a progressive, gender sensitive, responsible society that cares for its older citizens, women and children.
There are various NGOs and individuals amongst all of us, involved in fight against the system for a long time now. But these voices get drowned in the media thanks to the market forces and the political compulsions that drive them. There is so much happening in our state, in the art, literature, social land-
But would I feel at home, here in Kerala, was the big question? Growing up here, I understood that though on the face of it,
sive, gender sensitive, responsible society that cares for its older citizens, women and children. On the other hand, there was a lot of relief
scape but few are exposed or aware of it. I hope our endeavour to infuse a fresh thought into all our minds reaches all those
women in Kerala seem to do remarkably
and hope coming in from unusual areas, thanks
who are thirsty for unadulterated content; be it
better than the other states, like Haryana, UP
to the show I host on Rosebowl called Talking
art, literature or politics! Good luck to all of us.
08 | FWD LIFE | NOV 2011
Space Frame
Architecture & Identity L
Ar. Tony Joseph The author is an internationally renowned architect
ike art, architecture too holds up a mirror to
ence of globalisation. For me, Kerala has always
and powerful it might be elsewhere in the world,
a communities’ social character. A traveler
been globalised, not only in terms of its trade
would only lead to a second class citizenship in
traversing the length of our coast, until the
history but also in terms of its migration history.
the global community. Why should we lose our
recent past, would have recognised an architec-
This architectural shift could be in some ways a
originality and become mere copies and in turn
tural legacy that reflected not only the micro
result of the rise of identity politics all over the
become inferior? Institutions and ideologies em-
climate of the area but also reaffirmed a unifying
world, and that transmuting into vested interests
bodied in the built environment and architecture,
cultural identity. Such a spectacle was possible
and power plays, rather than spiritual interests in
structure the images and observations of people,
through a coherent sense of identity which was
Kerala. From an architect’s point of view it is in-
and give hints of a certain way of life. This kind
shaped through the assimilation of influences,
teresting for me to see this juxtaposition getting
of social production of the built environment or
which the region of Kerala was exposed to, be-
reflected in architecture. The mosque or church
a kind of architectural determinism is creating
ing the part of the greater Indian Ocean trade
now has to shout out its respective Central Asian
route. Recently I was approached to renovate
or European, medieval or post-renaissance char-
a mosque. The existing structure had a distinct
acter. Luckily the temples in Kerala has retained
period style and the client was more interested
its personality and not tried to stylistically copy
in actualising a spiritual space .He wanted it to
the North Indian temples but then, of course,
reflect the vernacular characteristics within the
bad architectural practices has crept into newly
spatial organization of a mosque. I found this
made temples too. A Malayalee has always been
perspective very refreshing as even some of the
part of an ancient culture and in their interaction
churches which I was asked to design, but later
with members of other cultures; the distinction
gave up, were started on the assumption that
of this tradition is what which gains respect. Co
a marked polarization in society, which in turn
a frontal elevation similar to Italian and French
opting alien practices, no matter how numerous
leads to a tension and rupture in the secular fab-
Thazhathangadi mosque
Cathedrals were more important than the local,
ric of the state. This is not to say that these global
vernacular attributes that contributes to the
cultural interactions should be totally avoided,
building’s spiritual atmosphere.
rather we should make it a point to retain what
This trend of blindly copying foreign structures is often dismissed as an influ-
is good and natural within our traditions. Let architecture be contextual in nature, relating to the place and time we are living in. They can be modern interpretations of styles with which we are familiar and comfortable.
St. Mary’s Orthodox Syrian Church Kottayam Cheriyapalli Photo Credits: Bejoy Thomas
2011 NOV | FWD LIFE | 09
Spotlight
Prasanth Parameswaran
Life on the fast lane By Gisen George Varghese
One ball was all it took for Prasanth Parameswaran to be propelled from the obscure world of a journeyman cricketer to the limelight reserved for the next big things of Indian cricket. Hailing from the backwaters of Kerala, Prasanth became an overnight sensation and one of the brightest hopes of Indian cricket after he dismissed Virender Sehwag in the very first over he bowled in the IPL. A hammer thrower in his school days, his has been an eventful journey to the most glitzy stage of modern day Cricket. Tall, fast and accurate, he was described by no less a player than Sehwag as potential India material. He is also a poster boy for the changing face of Kerala Cricket.
In this exclusive interview with FWD Life , he speaks about his remarkable journey and his dreams for the future.
10 | FWD LIFE | NOV 2011
Hi Prasanth, Let’s start with your life before IPL
Even though I was a debutant, I had performed
Delhi I had no hopes that I would get into the
One of my cousins directed me to CMS College
well in the Duleep Trophy and Deodhar Trophy
final squad. Until the very first game everyone
Kottayam as he thought it would provide more
last year. I had high hopes of getting into the
will be very relaxed, the real tension starts when
opportunities for my cricket career. Until then I
team. The fact that I had a contract with the
the debutant game is up. Until we reach Delhi
had made no decision to make cricket a career,
Kolkata Knight Riders in the previous season was
the team wasn’t announced. General practice is
but things began to change after I was selected
also an advantage. During the selection trials the
to announce the squad a day before the game.
to Cochin Refineries Cricket Academy based on
coach also mentioned that they are interested
But this particular day they announced the team
my performances in the intercollegiate matches.
in taking me. But during the last minute shuffle I
only before the warm up. I was super surprised
My three years in Cochin Refineries Cricket
was excluded from the team. In fact it prompted
when I found my name in the final squad. Then
Academy is the foundation on which I’m trying to
me to bowl in the nets and to mingle with the
everything happened so fast. I had no time
build a cricket career now. How helpful are Kerala pitches for pace bowling? Well, I think we can convert our resources into our strength and reach the standard we aim to achieve. We have, in the last IPL, already seen a sterling five wicket haul by Ishanth Sharma at Cochin International Stadium. It was a good sign that we could develop more pace pitches
to figure out what was happening and to get
I was super surprised when I found my name in the final squad. Then everything happened so fast. I had no time to figure out what was happening and to get tensed about my debut, and that helped me to perform well.
tensed about my debut, and that helped me to perform well. Your memories of the first over against Virender Sehwag? It was a surprise call. There were no decisions made on who was going to open the game. Jayawardane gave me the ball and asked me to bowl. I had no time to tell my family and friends about my debut match. This in fact was good
international players. I guess,I made the right
as I was relaxed and was under no pressure to
impression.
prove myself in front of them. The first ball was a sixer. Everyone seems impassive. The thought
Did Kochi Tuskers management invite you to
that Sehwag, though a great cricketer, is still a
bowl in the nets?
batsman who I can get out gave me confidence.
No, they didn’t invite me. KCA took initiative and
He is a batsman and I’m a bowler. If he can hit me
send me to bowl in the nets. Other players dis-
for a six I sure can take his wicket. And that was
cussed about my bowling. There was a practice
what exactly happened. The sixer in fact gave me
session afterwards and within two weeks I was
strength to come back.
selected to the team. Was that a planned delivery? even in Palakkad, Perunthalmanna and in dif-
Who influenced you in the team? Your favorite
No, not at all. My normal delivery is the out
ferent parts of Kerala. I feel Kerala wickets are
team mate?
swinger. I got an uneven bounce and swing on
impartial. It doesn’t mean that they favour pace
The coach, senior players, and overseas players
that delivery. It was sheer luck. I don’t think any
bowling, but the overcast skies favored me and I
were of great help. I had a very good relationship
bowler can plan his delivery. Maybe that happens
could utilize it to my advantage.
with VVS Laxman even before IPL. He was a great
in rare cases.
guide in my voyage. Brendon McCullum and Describe your path to IPL?
Muralidharan are very friendly. I’m very close to
Virender Sehwag spoke about you as an Indian
The time when news about the launch of Kochi
S.Sreesanth, Raiphi Gomez, P.Prasanth as well.
material, what do his words mean to you?
IPL team had splashed in the media, it triggered
I am really happy that he said those words. It
many discussions on the possible players from
Can you recollect your feelings before the IPL
gave me a lot of confidence. Those words of en-
Kerala. Raiphi Gomez, P.Prasanth, I and other
debut match?
couragement lift me up. Even when you mention
three or four were on the top of the list. Many
I was selected to the Kochi squad only for the
it now it elates me and encourages me to work
people predicted that I would get the selection.
last 10 matches. When Kochi played against
hard and go to the next level. 2011 NOV | FWD LIFE | 11
How was the experience of getting smashed by
to behave in the right way. He advised that I
Chris Gayle?
should speak to the batsman and the coach
He hit me for 37 runs in an over, and it proved
and get feedback. He also helped me during
to be a better learning experience than what I
the match and supported me throughout.
would have gained, getting him out the first ball. The important thing is that I didn’t get depressed.
How is life after IPL, the money factor?
I took it on chin and promised myself that I would
I believe that when money comes to you, ways
return as a stronger player. Sometimes the best
to spend it will also follow. My mode of living has
lessons are learnt from unpleasant experiences.
improved; but I think money is secondary for me.
He hit me for 37 runs in an over, and it proved to be a better learning experience than what I would have gained, getting him out the first ball. The important thing is that I didn’t get depressed.
Money cannot buy you respect. How much of an influence has Sreesanth been in your fledging career?
As a bowler who is your inspiration?
He was very helpful. He has always given me the
Wasim Akram. The time I spent with Kolkata
right advice as to how I should be going about
Knight Riders while he was the coach proved
What are your interests other than Cricket?
my career. He said, “We both are bowlers.
productive. His advice based on his vast
Apart from cricket I love fishing and driving.
The only difference is that I have already played
experience was extremely helpful.
I am very passionate about driving heavy
international cricket; but your time will come
see my potential I am really happy.
vehicles. I never miss a chance to drive
soon. You are bowling really well. You have to
Future dreams, India dreams.
heavy vehicles. (A sheepish Prasanth
maintain the composure and keep pounding
Yes, from the very first moment in my cricket
continues) I recently became lucky enough
away.” He is a superb bowler. His words gave
career I aspired to play for India. When
to buy a Mercedes Benz. I have a Bolero also.
me a lot of energy. He also said that I have
people are positive towards me and
I just love driving.
12 | FWD LIFE | NOV 2011
Learn how to light up your tech ideas
TePP invites proposals The Technopreneur promotion programee (TePP), an initiative by DSIR, Govt.of india, towards promotioning the spirit of entrepreneurship, invites proposals from innovators and entrepreneurs for funding assistance. Depending on the project specifics,the extended financial support shall range from Rs 75,000 to Rs. 45 lakh. Technopark, the outreach centre of TePP in Kerala, will evaluate the proposals for their innovativeness InvitingTechnologies for transfer -Technology Com-
of the innovation is already developed and the in-
Technopark-TBI allots space – the project proposal
mercialisation and Facilitation Agency(T-TCFA)
novators themselves are not interested in under-
approved by DSIR.Govt of India will be admitted
Working under TREMAP (Technology Refinement
taking its refinement or taking commercialisation.
into India’s Best Technology Business incuba-
and Marketing Programme) of TIFAC, DST.Govt of
MEME Business Incubator@Tecnopark TBI- in-
tor for commercialisation.
india undertakes early assessment of a technol-
vites until having innovative technology/business
undergo evaluation by Angles & the TBI
ogy’s marketability and find out suitable buyers to
idea for early stage finding and incubation support
Expert committee before being admitted. T-TBI
link it to the market. T-TCFA invites technologies
by Technopark TBI. Funding ranges from Rs. 4-8
shall provide seed capital assistance to genuine
(innovations) where at least the prototype model
Lakh per idea/unit.
entrepreneurs.
Contact K. C. C. Nair, Park Centre, Technopark, Trivandrum Phone: +91 471 2700222 Mobile: +91 9447111244 Email: kccnair@technopark.org www.technoparktbi.org www.dsir.gov.in
The innovator shall
Main Story
Are we too conservative? Monumental IT parks , gargantuan structures of development, an unbridled exhibits of the various autographs of glitz. Grisly murders, inconceivable rapes, out of the world scams, a thriving militia of moral-protectors.
W
hen the floodgates of Indian economy
From a facilitator of attainable realities, money in
more money in the first few months of their first
opened in the last decade of the millen-
itself became the dream to be chased; a pursuit
job than what their parents retired with. Kerala
nium gone by, few would have imagined the so-
that would eventually rewrite India. A new class
always had an educated middle class, a product
ciety that would be brought forth 20 years later.
emerged whose brand ambassadors made
of various social and political reforms, groomed
14 | FWD LIFE | NOV 2011
by a long tradition of quality primary education
founded in 1995 and is still the largest IT
and aligned lifestyle changes, was
system facilitated by various minority institu-
sector job provider in the state. Its long term
introduced into the society. Yet the oldest IT
tions and pragmatic higher educational options
implications, though, go far beyond its mere
Park in India remains the lowest income
and decisions. Like their parents who reaped
job generating potential. A new culture,
earner among all the IT Parks that came
the benefits of the Nehuruvian economic model
facilitated by infrastructural developments
up later in India.
by working outside the state namely, Bombay and the Gulf. Or so one was made to believe by the countless narratives, which made-in-Madras Malayalam cinemas of that period offered. The buzz word for the post liberalisation professional became American on-site jobs or migrations to the Silicon Valley. The restless 70’s saw their progeny become part of the global community created by the demand for cheap white collar workers and the supply of skilled and eager work force. The disparity of pay structured by the proverbial carrot of future prosperity created a naive society taking its first tottering steps towards global adulthood. The most prominent signature of economic
Women alone or men alone cannot have total insight of how to spend their life in society successfully until and unless men and women live together study together and interact together. Women are safe in same sex college is a wrong notion in the society. When we go deeper into the crime statistics of Goa which is notorious for high criminal rate the men studied in the boys only colleges are the majority. The girls who studied in the women’s only colleges can only see the society with fear. When we are putting a girl or boy in a same sex college we are denying their opportunity to mingle with society. According to the survey of IMRB the women or men educated in a same sex college has highest divorce rate of 15% while students from co-education is 2%.
Dr. George Thomas Dean, Albertian Institute of Management
liberalisation policies in Kerala is Technopark,
2011 NOV | FWD LIFE | 15
Main Story
Instant Money Magic
Our college was started at a time when women enjoyed no freedom. But I wouldn’t dare say that women are safe in women colleges only. It seems that women are facing greater threats within their homes. They
According to Kodiyeri Balakrishnan, the former
terms with the rules of the game controlling the
Home Minister of Kerala, more than Rs 10,000
newly liberalised market system, these scams
are free here and they get lots of
crore of hawala money is transacted in the state.
shattered the bedrock of Nehruvian middle class
opportunities to express
The assets of various Mafia groups in Kerala
economic system piled carefully on the dictum of
themselves here.
were estimated at, by DGP Jacob Punnoose, to
“lot of hard work, and a little bit of corruption.”-
be around Rs 50,000 crore. Kochi hosts capital
By the dawn of the new millennium, gone were
to two of the major mafias among them— the
the days when people set the limits of the money
land mafia and the money mafia. The mafia
they could amass in terms of the work they did.
seeks to exploit greed. That there is no limit to
In this new world order, it was not a difficult
the money you can accumulate, provided you
task for the mafia groups to establish a parallel
have your money-thinking brain cells oriented
government, run it with the money power they
in the proper direction was firmly established as
possessed and the might they gained by acting
because people have easy access
a possibility by the mid 90s—though yet to be a
as a pressure group on the government of the
to police stations, and there almost
rampant practice in the real world, its theoretical
‘real’ world, and protect its subjects. Two of the
never a hesitancy to file a complaint.
prospects, beyond doubt, were well entrenched.
major networks through which the money mafia
There is still a lot of faith in comple-
That was also the period when scams of hitherto
operates are small scale financing and direct
tion of investigation and
unheard magnitude (though the figures now
marketing. Several money chain groups are active
look like molehills compared to the mountainous
in Kochi. Its running theme is very simple and
amounts of graft money in the modern world)
strikingly sinister: to turn an individual’s network
AjithKumar
had rocked the nation—Hawala and the Harshad
of relations with other individuals of the society
Mehta stock exchange scams being the show
into currency; a remarkably powerful exhibition
D.I.G and Commissioner of Police, Cochin City
stealers. For a nation, which had yet to come to
of modern day ways of alchemy.
16 | FWD LIFE | NOV 2011
Dr. Sr. Teresa CSST Principal, St. Teresas College
The so called rise of crime rates is also because of the rise in reporting of crime. This is possible in Kerala
catching the criminal.
THE KERALA PSYCHE The nature of moral policing in Kerala is also different from rest of India. Moral impositions
menace in the society. There is constant segregation of gender
When we were trying to leave the auto driver verbally abused me. I too reacted strongly. He slapped me hard on my face. He then twisted my right arm backwards. By then, people had started gathering and the driver presented us before them as some sort of ‘wrong-doers’.
Thasni Banu, I.T Professional and Moral Police victim
arise in most cases not from right wing organisa-
in our educational institutes. New profession-
tions rather it cut across party lines. The psyche of
al colleges are coming up, which advertise
these impositions resides in gender relation crisis
their single gender system as desirable. Even
In the initial days my employees were
that Kerala is undergoing. There seems to a sexual
colleges that have co-education are promot-
hesitant to say that it was my sister
repression among the Malayalee males. What else
ing segregation within their campuses.
and I who owns the business. Instead
can account for the rising crime against women
Most colleges in the state have banned tight
and children in the state? Rape and murder of
T-shirts and jeans, stopped film dance from
they would say our father; Mr. Babu
commuters or moral policing of women travelling
schools and unofficially monitor students of
at night, under age prostitution, and rampant
the opposite gender who talk to each other
child abuse are becoming regular breaking news.
for uncommonly long time. These unim-
place I was detained for travelling alone
The new helpline for child abuse victims run by
aginative changes in the educational sector
was in Thiruvananthapuram airport
Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan were literally flooded with
become contradictory when these students
and that too in the name of
calls when they started in August. There is a short
both professional and non-professional, start
ensuring security of women.
age of counselors to hand the cases. The Mahila
careers in a 24/7 work culture. A systemic
Shikshan Kendras meant to house the abuse
change rather than such cosmetic restrictions
Rekha.C.Babu,
victims is over crowed. All this shows the how
is necessary to mould the coming genera-
CEO BCG Group
the authorities under estimated this particular
tions in a positive manner.
C. George owns the business. I have travelled across the world and the only
2011 NOV | FWD LIFE | 17
In Focus
Oommen Chandy
MAN IN A HURRY The Kerala Chief Minister defying conventions launched the 100 day program for better governance, within a few days of forming the government, cognate to his earlier Chief Minister tenure’s motto. This time around the difference is that the developmental policies of the state have a social welfare perspective. This program is rooted in the ideas of transparency and delivery of governance. A web-cam in the office and 24X7 call centers are steps towards transparent governance. The Government has announced, on 12 September 2011, the successful implementation of 101 programmes out of the 107 enlisted he 100 days programme.
18 | FWD LIFE | NOV 2011
W
hile critics point out that most of the prestigious projects announced are the ones conceptualised by the earlier government, the continuation and completion of the older programmes is a welcome break from the older negative cycle of trying to undo the achievements of the previous political bloc in power. While it’s still too early to judge this government’s
performance, and the waffle thin parliamentary majority is a concern for long term stability, there seems to be a sufficiently strong political will to bring about meaningful changes. The scene at the Secretariat was that of pleasant clam, on the day of the interview unlike the normal controlled chaos and utter disarray associated with government offices. Thanks to a very professional briefing form the press secretary, the FWD team did not have any trouble getting through security cordon with our lights and cameras. In a room now familiar to the public, thanks to the web cam, the man from Puthupally, with his Khadar cloths and charming smile, talked about his vision for Kerala. Excerpts from the interview.
Development and Care The fast forward motto came about when I was the C.M last time; even
§
Hundred day programme We were closely monitoring it, Chief Secretaries and concerned ministers
though I was C.M only for 21 months I was able to do a lot many things.
were pursuing their goals in their department. I had declared 107 points
Then for five years I was in the opposition and was able to understand
for solution, of which 101 have been completed. One of the biggest
many realities. There is still poverty in our land; there is a large group
obstacles that we faced in these were the government jobs for physically
that undergoes many hardships. The common man faces much kind of
disabled. We were unable to fill up the reservation for the same. It has been
hardships this is the realities of our times. One of the biggest anxieties that
pending from 2005. There is a backlog of 1158 posts … we have agreed
many people face is their medical expenses. We get the best of medical
that all the personal to these post should be advised.
care in our state but the expense for that is very high, this is not feasible for poor and common people, therefore in this scenario I think with conviction that while Kerala should become an investment friendly state, there should be more opportunities created here. At the same time while this development happens there is a group of people who cannot wait until the fruits of this development has reached all the levels of the community. There should be particular precaution for this kind of people today itself. For a family facing poverty today there is no point in telling them that Kerala will become prosperous ten years later.
There is a group of people who cannot wait until the fruits of this development reaches all the levels of the community. There should be particular precaution for this kind of people today itself. For a family facing poverty today there is no point in telling them that Kerala will become prosperous ten years later.
Environment Vs Development We need development but at the same time we have to be careful about many other things. It should be a total holistic development that help all sections of people. Many people who undergo hardships and sacrifices for the common good. They lose their home and livelihood, instead of making them martyrs they should be made beneficiaries of these projects. The compensation and rehabilitation package should be created in such a manner in the same way there should be no project that destroy environment and take away the livelihoods of people who depend on them.
§ 2011 NOV | FWD LIFE | 19
We should focus on what can be done today and it should be done today. The priority is for an investment friendly state, the projects that will bring jobs, also those people who need special care, circumstances for these should be created today.
§
Image of Kerala Delay is Kerala’s Curse. To execute something that was to done today, a few days later, Kerala does not need a democratically elected government, it will happen in due course. Instead we should focus on what can be done today and it should be done today. The priority is for an investment friendly state, the projects that will bring jobs, also those people who need special care, circumstances for these should be created today. So the priority for development should be something that should
Corporate governance
be compatible for the state’s socio-economic conditions. Tourism, I.T,ITES,
We are trying the best to make corporate government possible. We have
Higher education, projects related to agriculture, especially organic farm-
come up the new ‘ideas’ scheme for file tracking. Under this new system
ing and value added projects.
a petitioner need not physically meet me to give me petition. Even for
As the first step in making available medical facilities to common
updates he/she need not go around government departments. The com-
man we have introduced a cochlear implanting program, five lakhs will
plainant can track it through personal computer or can avail the service of
be given to children who have this problem. We have seen the depres-
the closest Akshaya centre. We are trying to execute this system in every departmental office.
20 | FWD LIFE | NOV 2011
§
sion the parents undergo when the child cannot communicate with anybody.
Reverse Brain Drain
Krishna Kumar CEO, GreenPepper Consulting India Private Limited .
Home calling W
ikipedia says: Reverse brain drain , which refers to the migration issue, whereby human capital moves in
reverse from a more developed country to a less developed country that is developing rapidly, which is commonly defined as ‘brain drain’. It is also termed as a logical outcome of a calculated strategy, where migrants accumulate savings, also known as remittances, and develop skills overseas that can be used in their home country. Years ago, the Silicon Valley attracted the best IT talent from India. But the exchange of ideas and innovations after nearly two decades has reversed the trend. The charm of the US is fading off. India’s own Silicon Valley’s are now at the forefront of innovation and they are at-
tracting its super stars back home from the US. There was a time when nearly 90% of graduates passing out of the prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) headed to America. But not any more in large numbers. IT industry experts say that there are both personal and professional reasons for the reverse exodus. Most of the returnees say the gap in salaries in the two countries has been steadily decreasing. Money is indeed an important factor but it’s not the main reason for the reverse traffic. Interestingly the large majority of the 22 | FWD LIFE | NOV 2011
returnees are in the middle to senior management categories in the 30-40 age groups. Many of them would like their children to grow up in their own culture. As India asserts its position as a global economic powerhouse it has begun to attract Westerners in almost every field. And while they make less money in absolute terms at home, most said their salaries brought a “better quality of life” than what they had in the U.S. (There was also some reverse culture shock—com-
ily and friends was also a crucial element. Business research and consulting firm
dian professionals returning to India from
Frost & Sullivan said that the world will witness
the US. As one can imagine, reverse brain
reverse brain drain, wherein the vast vacancies
drain is important for India, given that it
for CXOs in countries like India will be filled not
faces a talent crunch in most sectors.
only by returning Indians, but also by Ameriplaints about congestion in India, say, and pollution in China.) When it came to social
In 2010, we saw as many as 60,000 In-
cans and Europeans seeking better prospects. The low cost and quality services offered by
Apart from IT sector, India has seen steady growth in the Healthcare, Pharma and Biotech, Finance, Retail, and Real Estate
factors, 80% of the Indians cited better
India’s IT companies have encouraged giant or-
in the last few years. This economic boom
“family values” at home. Ability to care for
ganizations like Microsoft, Google, and Yahoo to
created lot of new jobs in India; a substan-
aging parents was also cited, and this may
outsource in India. This has created a large num-
tial portion of them in the IT segment.
be a hidden visa factor: it’s much harder to
ber of jobs in India’s IT sector. Consequently, In-
bring parents and other family members
dian professionals with work experience in devel-
attraction to America and many of the Indians
over to the U.S. than in the past. For the vast
oped countries are in great demand–and many of
working in the US are now increasingly eager
majority of returnees, a longing for fam-
them are more than happy to fulfill this demand.
to be a part of India’s technological revolution.
Active opportunities
Position- Director ,Professional Service, for an online research company based in US which has an off shoring facility in Kochi. Requirement - Indian IT professionals with team management and project experience in US Position - Indian engineers in Norway with experience in ship building have opportunities to work in Cochin Shipyard under European sub contracting companies. Position - Associate Technical Manager (for Business Intelligence and Data Warehousing) in a US IT MNC in Kochi Requirement - Indian IT professionals who worked in a global work environment, managing cross cultural teams and projects.
This resulted in the gradual fading of the
Salary
Salary - 25 lakhs per annum
Salary – 8-15 Lakhs per annum
Salary – 8-15 Lakhs per annum
2011 NOV | FWD LIFE | 23
Contact www.greenpepper.in
Most of the returnees say the gap in salaries in the two countries has been steadily decreasing.
Spotlight
Make Food, Das Sreedharan
Not War
24 | FWD LIFE | NOV 2011
We walked into BTH looking for the man who changed Londenites Kerala cuisine experience, the award winning chef and maverick entrepreneurs who has chain of overnight success restaurants across London. We ended up meeting a casually dressed, charming, handsome, young at heart visionary who maintains “ his strong relationship with Kerala. Can you tell us about your childhood, some-
renowned in the village and she deeply
career change from accountancy to cook-
thing which influenced your culinary career
infused in me a true knowledge of food,
ing, what made you realise that cook-
I grew up in the small village of Thrikkayoor
coupled with an instinct for good cooking.
ing would be a lifelong love affair.
near Cochin, enjoying a simple innocent
In this way, I learnt so much from my parents
Looking back at my life, there is no doubt that
childhood like every other village boy - spend-
and grandparents. I learned how food is grown
food was my destiny. I left my village at the age
ing my days playing with friends, enjoying
and how much pain goes into nurturing the land.
of 19 years old, deciding to travel and find my
and taking part in the temple festivals etc.
This helped me to develop the Rasa philosophy
fate. Incidentally, my very first job was for a hotel.
further as I developed a deep respect for the
There I was told by my encouraging boss that I
ily and grew our own vegetables and spices.
We were a self-sufficient farming fam-
ingredients in the food and understood how
belonged to the field of food and hospitality. But
My father being insistent that we should
it came into being. I believe that you can be a
thinking that accountancy might be a more lu-
help our mum with her chores, would get
better cook if you understand the process of
crative career, I came to study in London. My first
us involved in the vegetable garden and
the growth of food; from seed to how it appears
few years in London were a constant struggle
on your plate. Absolute devotion to cooking
- trying to find part-time jobs to sustain myself
can only be developed by understanding the
and missing home especially my mum's cooking.
I learnt so much from my parents and grandparents. I learned how food is grown and how much pain goes into nurturing the land. This helped me to develop the Rasa philosophy.
journey that the ingredients have taken. To have good food, you need to respect the environ-
Your brief story about starting the
ment in which it grows. Being part of this link
first hotel and its growth.
between farming and cooking is to experience
In 1991, I was then managing a restaurant in
something very basic yet very profound.
London but I felt that there was something lacking. Indian restaurants were hardly serv-
Can you tell us the reason for the
ing anything that was close to authentic
kitchen. Although as a child I would rather be out playing with my friends than be involved in these activities, the seeds that he sowed then, helped me to find my connection with nature and food in my latter years. The family also owned a small teashop, which served typical Kerala meals during lunchtime and would act as a meeting point for villagers throughout the day. I would sit and watch the cooking every day and seemed to unknowingly absorb the art, talent and sensitivity that went into the cooking. The love and warmth that my mum would put into the cooking made her food 2011 NOV | FWD LIFE | 25
Spotlight Indian cuisine. Restaurants set by desperate Bangladeshi immigrants looking for low-input high-return jobs, resulted in an unfortunate slump in the quality of food and overall dining experience. I decided that I needed to do something different by introducing the London restaurant business to the fascinating world of regional Kerala cooking. What is food and its preparation to you At Rasa, we believe that experience of food extends beyond just dining; it is a lifestyle for healthy and happy living. I believe deeply that food is a celebration of life and that it brings together essential positive energies to create harmony in our world. Responsible food production links us more closely to nature and provides for sustainability and a positive outlook on life. Cooking good food brings enormous fulfillment and allows us to demonstrate our love for those important to us. Food is capable of establishing a deep connection with people, bringing them together with love and warmth. Why does the Rasa Gurukul have courses on culinary weapons making, oil making and tea-shop management?
My mum’s mango moru curry eaten with traditional boiled rice and a simple thoran on the side. Everytime I have this, I am flooded with sweet memories of my childhood, those idyllic days spent in abandon and above all, my mum’s love and warmth.
preparation. Farming had lost its community
the restaurant wanted to recreate it in their own
involvement - people are disconnected from
homes. I was only more than happy to oblige
the ingredients that constitute their food. I also
so that this magic can spread to their everyday
found that there was no teaching or learn-
living. In this way, I started writing my first book
ing of traditional home cooking anywhere in
going through an internal search of the meaning
Kerala. I felt it was my responsibility to come
of food and its power while recreating the secrets
up with a solution. The result of that feeling
of good cooking that I had witnessed as a child.
was the beginning of the Rasa Gurukul idea. Your favorite dish? Tell us more about your books, the reasons for
The meal that is closest to my heart will also
writing them. Are there more in the pipeline?
remain my mum's mango moru curry eaten with
I was first asked to consider writing cookery
traditional boiled rice and a simple thoran on the
Over the last few years, I have been very
books after being prompted by well known
side. Everytime I have this, I am flooded with
disappointed by the unenthusiastic attitude of
cookery writers like Madhu Jaffrey and Rose
sweet memories of my childhood, those idyllic
people in catering industry - people lack the
Gray . I was also inspired by the many requests
days spent in abandon and above
love and passion that is so essential in food
from customers, who having tasted the food at
all, my mum's love and warmth.
26 | FWD LIFE | NOV 2011
Balance Sheet
Alex K. Babu The Author is the Founder and Managing Director of Hedge Equities
Hope, Fear, Greed wide-spread mania. This goes on for a while.
easy money – and often they develop methods,
Then at some time, a fear starts to creep in as
philosophies, etc that are touted as ways to
stocks are subject to irrational
the market is not perceived as strong as initially
make money but are controlled by shortsight-
and excessive price fluctuations
assumed. Over time, this fear turns into panic
edness. In fact, in India one could make a wild
selling – and often the prices drop to a level way
guess and say that at least 95% of the invest-
below what it was when the whole craze began –
ments are done with short-term motivations.
and from which it will take even years to recover.
Naturally, such traders are always looking for
“Most of the time common
in both directions as the consequence of the ingrained tendency of most people to speculate
The most realistic distinction between the
(and regularly fed by the media) what can be
investor and the speculator is found in their
called short-term stimuli. If news on a given day
attitude toward stock- market movements.
is good, it is a buy and if news on the next day
There is nothing wrong in buying stocks for
is bad, it is sell – regardless of the long term
speculation. There is no crime in that. And if you
economic prospects of the economy or the
Graham
are buying stocks for speculation it is perfectly
company. And as such, the search for momentum
T
proper to take speculative factors into account,
drives their enthusiasm and trading patterns.
or gamble... to give way to hope, fear and greed.” – Benjamin
he story is a familiar one: an enduring
which are different from investment factors. The
bull market (whether it is in commodi-
speculator’s primary interest lies in anticipat-
to take home a profit is the most psychologi-
ties, equities, etc) often make the general
ing and profiting from market fluctuations. The
cally trying and dangerous situation all traders
investor’s primary interest lies in acquiring and
face. Often one experiences more pain from
public believe that the trend can continue for-
The feeling of missing out on an opportunity
missed opportunities (errors of omission) than realized losses (errors of commission). This is
The most realistic distinction between the investor and the speculator is found in their attitude toward stock- market movements. There is nothing wrong in buying stocks for speculation. There is no crime in that. And if you are buying stocks for speculation it is perfectly proper to take speculative factors into account, which are different from investment factors.
perhaps the ultimate paradox - that our human instinct and desire to fit in with the crowd often paves the way to our financial ruin. Due to the overwhelming power of the crowd and the tendency for trends to continue for lengthy periods of time on the basis of this strength, the trader is faced with a conundrum: does he or she follow the strength of
ever. The greed from being left out of a potential gold mine rises to proportions that create a mad buying frenzy – aptly supported by media and
holding suitable securities at suitable prices. Most people are however into the stock market in search of quick profits – the fast and
the crowd or defy it valiantly based on his own analysis. Sadly, if the investment orientation is short-term, the crowd often wins. 2011 NOV | FWD LIFE | 27
Photo Feature
“Tiger Tiger” cried the Boy by Ajilal
28 | FWD LIFE | NOV 2011
1
Left Page: Tigritude 1. Tiger Trance 2. Tiger on the pot(belly) 3. Framing the fearful symmetry 4. Jungle Law 5. Losing the stripes
2 3 4 5
2011 NOV | FWD LIFE | 29
www.fwdlife.in
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THEY CAME, WE SAW, THEY CONQUERED
W
here clothes had designer imprints, where models graciously walked down the runway in their sky high heels, for Kochi it was a fairy tale come true. When the
much waited much talked about Kochi International Fashion Week finally ended, Kochi was all high with fashion. When Storm Fashion Company announced a show at Kochi as part of its venture to take fashion to the grass root levels, at least some were skeptical about the outcome. But Kochi truly rose to the spirit of fashion and now it feels like everything happened in the blink of an eye. For three days Hotel Casino has turned into a wonderland of glitz and glamour. James Ferreira with his penchant for perfect clothes, Hari Anand with his fabulous array of Resort wear, and Archana Kochar with her Red, Black and White collection of sarees and dresses turned the first day a memorable one. The second day saw the visually delightful Apple Pie and Soda pop collection by Jules Idi Amin, The black magic by Jattin Kochaar, Wedding Collection by Riyaz Gangji and Vivek Karunakaran’s prêt collection based on the theme The spirited Roman on a Holiday. Third and final day was marked by Megha Grover’s dazzling Indian Wear collection, Patented Jeans collection by Lawman Pg3, The Sun sand senorita collection by Aruna Singh, and the grand finale by Sanjna Jon with her Kasavu inspired designs.
Cameralia
Aruna Singh She started designing by dressing up her dolls as a child. Fashion is her life. Aruna’s shows are about the fun factor involved. Be it the tender coconuts the models were carrying here in KIFW, or the Tamil accessories in CIFW she sure knows how to imbibe the essence of the local culture.
James Ferreria AThe high priest of fashion opened the fashion week with his unique line of men’s wear. A little birdie told FWD that James was so enticed by the response of Cochiites that he is starting a new spa and boutique exclusively for men here in Cochin.
34 | FWD LIFE | NOV 2011
Vivek Karunakaran Amidst all the chaos and fury, he stood calm and composed, bespectacled and always wearing a warm smile. For Vivek, who is overwhelmed by the response he received, KIFW was a cake walk. This young Malayalee is set to make it big. Maybe we would see him next at the New York or Milan Fashion Week. Fingers crossed.
Mamta The It girl. For someone who wants to express herself better with fashion, KIFW was the right platform and she did make use of it well. The centre of the show in every way her sheer presence supplemented for all that was amiss. Flaunting her tattoos and small coiffure, it was enchanting to watch her both on and off the ramp.
Hari Anand Playing his part as a good host designer, Hari made sure that his city feels nothing less than pride about his designs. Beautiful play of subtle colors, clever use of viscous material and splendid use of his signature print – all of it made sure his clothes were a step ahead.
2011 NOV | FWD LIFE | 35
Cameralia
Ashok J. Koshy A man who chases both light and sound alike, he came dressed up in a cow boy attire, complete with a pair of half chaps. This young at heart ace photographer is taking a new career path as a flutist. He performed during Sanjna Jon’s show and the latest news is that Mr. Koshy has been arrested for using Magic in the presence of Muggles.
36 | FWD LIFE | NOV 2011
KIFW Postmortem T
he 3 day gala event ended with
show. Often they find it in the hallways or
elusive shot. The grand finale saw the most
lots of appreciation but with many
in the media lounge. The coordinators were
number of visitors and those who got seats,
apprehensions too. Before each show it
running around most of the time looking for
who had to share it with other guests, were
was mad scramble outside the banquet
someone. Designer Vivek Karunakaran was
the lucky ones. To top it all, Malayalees had
hall with hundreds of guests and media
heard saying, “Everyone is looking for every-
to behave in their typical unruly way.
persons waiting to get in. The wait
one”. It felt like to remind the organizers of
Gaurav Sharma was himself heard complain-
went on for hours as the shows were
the invention of the equipment called Walkie
ing that someone pushed him away during a
delayed. No waiting room, no arrange-
Talkie. Keeping time was something the
show that he couldn’t see the rest of it prop-
ment for refreshments, not even a warm
organizers had no intention to achieve. The
erly. The gatekeepers and watchmen were
smile from the organizers. There was
shows were delayed on all the days. The after
arrogant and impolite. Mr. Ashwin of Kasavu-
no place even to park their bottoms.
show parties started in the we hours of the
kada, who sponsored the grand finale, was
One might get a glass of drinks at the
morning. The grand finale which portrayed
spotted struggling to get inside to watch the
Kingfisher Lounge but getting a glass
Sanjana Jon’s work started at 1 o’ clock in the
show. Not an all area access card,
of water took even harder an effort.
morning and ended at 2. The ramp itself was
a vvip pass, or a media pass was enough
Right before a show the frenzy was
very small. There wasn’t enough space for the
for the gatekeepers. It was their rule and
uncontrollable that it was a common
media. It was too crowded that half the time
they decided who should be let in. Hope
scene to see someone searching for a
photographers were trying hard not to fall
Gaurav and his team come up with a
piece of clothing which was part of the
on the ramp while they contrived to get that
better show next time.
SANJANA JON DISASTER I
t was hard to believe that it was the same Sanjana who dress up the likes of Natalie Glebova and Paris Hilton. As a Malayalee who made it big in the global scene, Kochi for sure expected
more from her. Although a heavily star studded show she didn’t do justice to her culture and according to Sanjana imbibe the spirit of ethnic Kerala, had no finish or finesse. Apart from a range of Salwars made out of Kasavu, which any local tailor could make with more finish, she showcased an array of plain Sarees made out of viscous material. The only dress which was noteworthy was a white gown which in fact stood out as it had nothing to do with the theme. She had dedicated the show to the war against girl infanticide and to her brother Anand Jon, who is serving sentence in LA County. It is time someone reminds her of the famous sitcom Gossip Girl
THE STORM
extract, “Fashion knows not of comfort all that matters is the face you show the world.”
Gaurav Sharma
Shweta Vijay
Shreya Arora
Running around the Casino clad in a white shirt was Gaurav Sharma, the general of the Operation Kochi Storm. It was his sole idea to bring fashion to Kochi. Kudos Gaurav!
A strand of hair tied with multi colored strings. An apologetic smile when something goes wrong. The media coordinator of Storm, Shweta Vijay was all helping hands to all in the media.
Small, plump and chirpy. Denim shorts and a comfy Tee Shirt. This is Shreya. The coordinator. Any world class manager would be amazed by the ease with which she handled the show.
PHOTO CREDITS : NikasNeo, Lalu Thirumittakode, Akhil Vishnu, Unni Mohan
more importantly to Kasavu which she tried to revive through the show. The designs, which
2011 NOV | FWD LIFE | 37
Indulgence
Haute Horlogerie
38 | FWD LIFE | NOV 2011
1 - Jaeger-LeCoultre “Tribute to 1931” Reverso The original Jaeger –LeCoultre was a polo watch i.e in 1920sthe polo fanatic British Army officers in India wanted a watch that would withstand the polo field smashup. The watch maker developed a reversible case that protected the watch crystal from being damaged by shock or impact. In 1931, they introduced (and patented) the Reverso.
2 - Boucheron Ladyhawke Tourbillon Boucheron , a jeweler house established in 1858 and Girard-Perregau, Swiss watch manufacture who dates back to 1791 joins together to produce a stunning masterpiece. Called the Ladyhawke after 1985 fantasy movie in which the heroine turns into a falcon at night, the horlogire has 833 multicolored diamonds and rubies and is finished in white gold they are available only in select outlets in the Middle East.
It’s a cult watch that will never go out of style, as long as you get a version that’s close to the original, and the Tribute to 1931 Reverso is
Price Rs 2,74,50,000 approx
as close to the original as it gets.
Price on request
The Speedmaster Professional by Omega was a giant leap for manThe
4 - Raymond Weil Freelancer Black 8 Limited edition.
Delaneau Open Magic is a variant of the Delaneau Magic.Unlike the
Boucheron , a jeweler house established in 1858 and Girard-mbol of
close dial Magic the Open Magic has a art deco inspired case and
both prosperity and the infinite. A figure eight is delicately outlined
there is a double strap on one side and a single strap on the other
on the black guilloché dial, with 12 sparkling diamonds around its
which ends in a gold bar and wire attachment to the dial.12 diamonds
voluptuous curves and nurtured its horological identity by granting it
indicate the hours. These are not the only diamonds that adorn this
a mechanical movement with automatic winding, and a fitted balance
precious watch. DeLaneau offers several versions with a total diamond
that is visible inside the figure eight. Adding a final touch of class, the
weight that varies between the 1.56 and 5 carats.
full-skin, saddle-stitched alligator strap matches the dial’s glamorous
3 - Delaneau Open Magic
Price on request
tones
Price on request
5 - Speedmaster Professional by Omega The Speedmaster Professional by Omega was a giant leap for man-
6 - Vacheron Constantin Historiques American 1921
kind’s watchmakers. The Speedmaster line became ‘The First Watch
Vacheron Costantin’s Historical uses an older model for inspiration to recreate
Worn on the Moon’ when Buzz Aldrin w ore it on his moonwalk. It is
an item that is decidedly contemporary; the result was a sophisti-
still one of the few watches still qualified for Extra-Vehicular Activity
cated cocktail of history and modernity, asymmetry and balance,
away from earth. NASA started using the watch from 1950 for their
with a slight touch of madness. Their cases, cushion-shaped, have the
‘Gemini’ missions, which preceded the Apollo moon landing missions.
peculiarity of a winding-mechanism axle shifted to one of the angles,
These iconic watches come with a four-year warranty, given the num-
resulting in a diagonal reading of the time.
ber of perfectly functioning Speedmasters that are 30 years or older the warranty may not be ever needed
Price: Rs. 3,84,000/- up
Price: Rs. 2,43,000/-
2011 NOV | FWD LIFE | 39
Storyboard
Shaji Thomas Philip The author is an industry expert and founder of Big Tree Advertising Company.
Advertising: Emerging trends T
he American Marketing Association defines advertising as “Any paid
form of non-personal presentation and promotion of ideas, goods or services by an identified sponsor.� Advertising is all about managing the perception of people and subsequently persuading them to buy the products. The other aim of advertising is to increase the visibility of the products and services among the customers. Rather, advertising is aimed to increase the awareness of the customers. 40 | FWD LIFE | NOV 2011
Advertising also plays an important role to build
tising and promotional strategies. It needs the
the image of the organization. Through ads the
skills of selling to be translated to the right me-
company can build the image which it wants to
dium. People tend to believe what they see. Ad
make in the minds of the people. So companies
campaigns use this to make us believe in some
spend a huge amount of their budgets on adver-
imaginatively stupid advertisement concepts.
01
02
ing way to cheer his grieving teacher who lost her dog. Surf Excel aims to portray stains as something that needs to be battled with valiantly. Their campaigns tell consumers to celebrate stains, as it isn’t difficult to get rid of them. With Surf Excel, stains come and go. So be yourself. Be free to do whatever you want to do.
No meaning in hanging ... Drink Complan Complan the COMplete and PLANned food has been part of every kid’s diet. With its 23 vital nutrients it helped or at least made us believe that it helped in a kids growth. When Shahid kapoor and Ayesha Takia as kids said I’m a Complan boy and girl, we loved it. Then came the height attaining concept. It claims the drink can add two inches to a child’s height. The latest in this series
No sex idea from idea
with an ad that shows two children on their way
is the Ramu Somu Raja ad. It shows two kids
Say it differently. Say it memorably. This is
to school. The girl falls into a puddle, dirtying
Ramu and Somu who can pluck mango, ring the
the essence of copywriting in advertise-
herself and starts howling. The brother dives
bell and can throw the ball into the basket too.
ment... Even years ago Idea mobile used to
into the puddle, wrestle with it threatening it to
The tiny Raja in his futile effort to gain height
come up with thought provoking advertise-
apologise. He emerges a while later all muddy
does hanging exercises. It ends with the taller
ments. Idea tend to include public interest
and stained, proudly declaring, “Sorry bola
boys advising Raja to get his mother to buy him
topics like deforestation, public education et
(The puddle said it was sorry).” The girl smiles.
Complan. The advertiser clearly knows the target
all with a twist and those information heavy
The new ad in the series is that of a child
group is the kids and the mothers. Noticeably all
ad campaigns did catch a lot of attention.
impersonating a dog’s behavior in an endear-
humiliations take place in front of the mothers.
The latest from Idea is on alternative population control. They reason out that the population increases due to the lack of good entertainment.
03
Due to absence of power and no TV, people indulge more into conjugal entertainment leading to extension of family. What to do Sirji ? Now Idea comes with 3G...from now on no sex for you...your partner is engaged in world cup, video gaming, video chatting and what not... This ad leaves a message that there will be ‘No Aabaadi, No Barbaadi’ because people will be ‘3G pe Busy’.
Stain is good if it is for good While most detergent ads still talk about spotlessly clean clothes Surf excel offers a different take on Stains. It sparks the thought that dirt could actually be good if it is for good. Six years ago the detergent king started the campaign 2011 NOV | FWD LIFE | 41
Persona
Dr. Mini Vettical
A
combination of good looks, intelligence, talent, and consistent enthusiasm, she is intimidating at the very least. She created her own genre of Bharatanatyam- mixing poetry and dance. She talks about the croissants
and pizzas she cooks. Her ballerina paintings adorn the walls of her house. The photographer in her is in euphoria when she gets the perfect shot. She flaunts the sarees and dresses she designed and stitched. She performs the intricate steps in Bharatanatyam with ease. She has done it all. She has seen it all. She is Dr.Mini Vettical. Dr. Vettical graduated from The University of Texas Medical School at Houston and worked as Assistant professor and practiced Internal Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine. Mini recently moved back to Kochi in an effort to infuse fresh life into dance which she thinks is not accorded the status and respect it deserves. With the advice of her guru Girija Ravindranath, Mini started the Moksha Akademy of dance. She is trying to bring a twist by combining Bharatanatyam with Poetry and narration. A malayalee born and brought up in Kuwait, Mini moved to US where she learned different genres like ballet, contemporary dance et al. Mother of four kids, Mini is also interested to enact children’s tales. She has choreographed many performances in schools around Kochi.
Styling & Makeup Jijeesh Photography Jamesh Kottakkal Location Courtesy DD Samudra Darshan- Desai Homes
42 | FWD LIFE | NOV 2011
Dress & Belt by Nine West Shoes Steve Madden
2011 NOV | FWD LIFE | 43
Knitwear by Cable & Gauge Belt Calvin Klein Skirt Eddie Bauer Boots Rampage
44 | FWD LIFE | NOV 2011
Dress by Scott McClintock Earrings Swarovski Bracelet Gucci
2011 NOV | FWD LIFE | 45
Maison Couture
Vivek Karunakaran Malayalee designer based in Chennai. Vivek owns the fashion label Viia with his partner Shreya Kamalia.
The art of designing
DREAMS W
e are so blaze to the word ‘designer labels’ and ‘designer lines’, seldom do we stop to think what designing clothes is all about. For me all that is there is Prêt and Haute couture. When designers, individuals try and create their own, and when they do they do so with a certain
aesthetic which appeals to them. Their aesthetics mirror the designers thoughts; so each designer’s clothes are different because they all bear each’ signature, no I don’t mean the brand label. And more often than not you would find that people relate to the aesthetics of the designer more than anything else. Like Ralf Lauren famously said, “I don’t design clothes, I design dreams”. It doesn’t require a sociologist to figure out that clothes make a person. We all feel great when we are in great clothes. Whenever someone wishes to be unique and or distinguished, one would not court with the run of the mill wardrobe. This means that the ‘Globus’ and ‘Shoppers Stop’ of the world are out of the reckoning. Where would you shop for that unique suit or unique dress that speaks out on who you are as an individual? Designer wear, designer labels are your answer. Of course you have to be somebody in life before you can justify expense of designer labels, else it is just a fad like everything else. Now considering you are the part, the question remains how do you look the part? Designer labels offer aesthetics that the designer and customer share, above all else, quality that lasts and yes a true designer label offers the ultimate in luxury of it all, they are unique.
46 | FWD LIFE | NOV 2011
Just like you, your suit would be one of a kind and the only copy in the world. Of course like the old adage goes ‘you get what you pay for’, but you
§
also ‘pay what you get for, quintessentially you pay a premium for having the
get better and better from this point onwards. People today take care of themselves. They take care to dress for the occasion. They are acutely aware of fashion nuances and references.
unique piece. Quality, designer clothes do not compromise on quality, you
Indian fashion is evolving and there have been external influences
would find them slightly more worked on, and slightly more embellished
in the Indian fashion, esp. European fashion which is a 100 years old. But
and having an intricate style statement. No one outside the industry actually
unlike the popular belief it has never an exercise of cut copy paste from
checks it but there is a parameter of quality, stitches per inch and designer
European fashion. Influences percolate into Indian fashion and Indian
wear would be of very high density of stitches per inch.
designers creating certain design sensibilities which are fusion of both
Like I Said every designer has his own signature and for Viia our signature
influences. Indian designers focus on different things. There are design-
is that we work on very clean lines; the garments are well cut and well
ers who focus on Indian others on western, yet another set who mix
finished and our mantra is that we pay a lot of attention to detail. We try to
both. It is this mix that adds to the beauty of the Indian fashion industry
achieve this from every viia garment that is created, to provide better value
At Viia we do more contemporary. Our silhouettes are very western.
to the customer. Our designs simple: embroidery subtle: and finished article
I prefer to call our clothes as global as opposed to calling it Indian or
immaculate. Like with all things fine, the subtle nuances are the ones most
western. It has a certain style statement which would appeal to anyone
appreciated.Fashion industry in India has changed extensively in the last
who got a comparable sense of style, whether they are Europeans or
decade or so and Indian Fashion now is accepted and taken seriously world-
Indians or Americans it is with respect to the perception of a person who
over. There have been Indian Designers who has been invited to showcase
got design aesthetics.
their work in many prestigious fashion events across the world like the New
Times are changing and everyone is looking out for fresh new talent
York Fashion week, Milan Fashion week and so on. This illustrates that the
which is a great thing. With the number of fashion weeks that are hap-
world is taking note of Indian fashion. And the industry is honored with the
pening and regional fashion shows coming up, more and more young
recognition and respect, which would have been unheard of 2 decades ago.
designers are noticed. We are on the threshold of a new era and the
§
best is yet to come… so forward we look.
Photo Credits: Lalu Thirumittakode
Fashion in India per se, the outlook of people changed and it is going to
2011 NOV | FWD LIFE | 47
Plat(e)onic
RJ Appunni The author is a Food connoisseur and a fine dining specialist.
A heaven for Hell’s Angels Are you passionate about food? Are you crazy about riding? Do you like adventures? Do you enjoy night life and music? Do you wish for a magnificent world with food, music and peace in Cochin?
I
f you desire for a one stop shop that offers a great experience, then ‘Chillax’ is your hideout. Chillax is a 24x7 restaurant that peps up the
portfolio of Kochi in its race to become a interna-
photographs of Harley Davidson bikes printed
from Chinese, Indian, Continental and Arabic
tional destination. This quaint little cafe is situat-
on it. Just as Harley Davidson is known for the
cuisines. The hot pick in the menu is the Jagget
ed off the highway between Vytilla and Palarivat-
magical riding experience it offers, Chillax too
juice- a mixture of Mango and Milk layered with
tom, Cochin, right next to the Tyrex showroom.
offers its customers a true comfort experience.
the chef’s own secret ingredient. The Arabic
Chillax is a 24 hour restaurant, the peak
tandoori, Al fahm, all spiced up with Arabic
Set in a brown theme, the Cafe is inspired by Irish architecture. The owner Mr. V. Kiran, who
hours starting at 12 am. The cafe is frequented by
masala is addictive to the core. Indian tandoori
is also the designer of the Cafe, has taken great
bachelors and families alike. One can just pick up
options include Sheek Kababs, Chicken tikka
care to recreate the Irish style even to its minute
a magazine or have a lazy evening to let thoughts
etc..For breakfast, Appam and Stew is in great
details. The wooden trusses in the roof and the
wander. Wish to give a rendition of the Cancion
demand. For chocolate lovers, Chillax has in
wooden paneling complete the look of the cafe.
del Mariachi or Malaguena Salerosa? Waiting
offer a variety of flavors like coffee, almond,
for you is a Guitar and a performance chair.
hazel nut, cashew. The continental alterna-
Chillax’s fabulous deco is cognizant with its owner’s passion for bikes. It is Kiran’s love for
Chillax offers a variety of dining options
tives include sandwiches and burgers.
the bikes that gave the restaurant the tagline “The Riders Choice”. Chillax proudly boasts of
My rating for Location
4/5
(perfect option for weary travelers)
a Fat boy-1600 Harley Davidson bike which is
Ambiance
5/5
(loved the bike in the coffee shop)
displayed at the entrance, adding to the glamour
Service
4/5
(nothing wrong, just don’t want to be very generous)
quotient of the place. This biker’s paradise has
Menu options
3/5
(not much for vegetarians)
an array of photographs of Harley Davidson
Value for money
4/5
(it was worth it)
bikes. Chillax has on sale coffee mugs with
Recommendations
5/5
(should check it out for the Harley-Davidson. I am in love with it.
48 | FWD LIFE | NOV 2011
Made in Heaven
Chandam Charthal By Nanditha Nair
Away from the maddening hullaballoo of modern day weddings, there still exist codes of tradition that are preserved and celebrated with fervour and passion. Welcome to a night of Chandam Charthal
C
handam Charthal, an age old religious ritual of the Knanaya Community (Catholics & Jacobites) of Kerala, still continues to be part of
§
This is followed by applying of oil and the groom is taken off the stage for the ritual bath. After the bath he is given a new set of clothes and brought back to the stage. It is then the turn of the godfather or the paternal uncle
their wedding celebrations to this day. Normally organised on the
eve of wedding at the groom’s house, it is an oriental bachelor party of sorts,
who has the tell tale mundu tied around his head to seek permission from
in which close relatives and friends of the groom gather to morally support
the crowd to bless the groom. He asks “Ichappadu Kodukkatte” to which
and prepare him for the wedding day.
the crowd replies “Not audible” until they are happy with the outcome (usually the third time). He then feeds the groom with the “Pachor and
The event starts when the brother in law leads the groom to a specially decorated Mandapam (stage). The groom is seated on a traditional
Jaggery” and blesses him for a fruitful and happy married life. Other elders
Korandi adorned with white cloth symbolising purity. Groom’s sister brings
present follow suit. In some places this is also called “Nulli Kodukkal”. The bride’s house also witnesses a similar event on the eve of the mar-
a vilakku(light) to the mandapam. This is followed by prayers and songs. The family barber is then received on to the stage with a traditional lamp.
riage which is called “Mylaanji ideel”. It is believed that the Henna applied
The barber will ask the crowd, “Everyone above the 17 races, May I start the
would remove the sin that the bride has inherited from Eve. The “Nulli
preparations”. The crowd in fervour pitch tends to ask the barber to repeat
Kodukkal” ritual is the same in the bride’s house as well. Throughout these
the question which he repeats (normally 3 times) until all those gathered grants him permission. With this the barber starts to shave the groom.
§
functions several traditional songs describing the story of the Knanaya people and their arrival to Kerala are sung.
Knanaya The Knanaya people came to India from Iran. The present Knanayites are the descendents of the 400 people who migrated to the Mahadevar Pattanam (Kodungallore) in 345 AD. Legend says that the King of Kodungallore, Cheraman Perumal, respected them by giving 72 positions and ruling authority over 17 castes. Pachor is a mixture of broken rice & coconut milk ceremoniously given on special occasions Images clockwise 1 Brothers in law leading groom to the stage 2 Barber in action 3 Returning after bath 4 Godfather feeding groom Images from Mr. Swaroop Kalathil’s Chandam Charthal 2011 NOV | FWD LIFE | 49
No-mads Coordinates of Bruges: 51°13’0’’N 3°14’0’’E Bruges is a mere 44km from Ghent to the southeast and 145km from Brussels
Venice to Venice By Rebecca Chandy
How would a Venetian experience Venice? In this travelogue Rebecca Chandy explores the sights and sounds of Bruges, the capital and largest city of the province of West Flanders in Belgium is located in the northwest corner of Belgium.
F
rom Alleppey, The Venice of the East, I travelled 11,239 km to reach Bruges, The Venice of the North. After a 3 hour drive from Paris, I
§
reached Bruges (By the way it is pronounced as Broosh) on a Monday
appetizer that I ran into a chocolate shop nearby. Waiting for me there was one of the tastiest foods in the worlpain au chocolat. It looks like our puffs with the filling made of choco-
afternoon. Bruges is a UNESCO world heritage site and the entire city looks
late. If I say pain au chocolat is the pseudonym for Manna from heaven, it
like a giant set for a movie based in medieval period. Like its namesake
won’t be an exaggeration. I would rather call it the manna from the Venice
Venice, Bruges is also famous for its canals. There are canals everywhere
of the north. Imagine my disappointment when the shop keeper told me
you look and it gives you the feeling that the city is floating.
that I just missed the famed Bruges Chocolate Festival which happens in
A mini cruise around the city through some of Bruges famed rectangu-
summer every year. But like they say there is always a next time.
lar wooden box houses; Bruges’ renowned Municipal Lace Museum also
I spent the rest of the evening strolling through the cobbled streets,
on the main canal and the quaint bridges with the swans and the ducks
peering into souvenir and lace shops, taking pit stops every now and then
swimming through the canals … all of it made the entire ride an experi-
to munch my manna. When it was time for dinner, I was not really hungry
ence endearingly romantic. Near to the boat landing area is the Diamond
but couldn’t resist the charm of the simple restaurants at the market
Museum. Sadly all the museums are closed on Mondays, so do have that
square. It was a laid back three course dinner for a full two and half hours.
in consideration when planning your trip to Bruges. Diamond shops are
I took a short walking trip to the hotel. Bruges is a walker’s paradise
nearby and how I wish I could afford one of the rocks. Sigh!
and a walk across the city won’t take more than half an hour. The roads are
The 13th century Belfort en Hallen (belltower of the market) is a symbol
filled with people riding on the carriages and by the time I reached the
of Bruges and is the tallest belfry in Belgium. It has an impressive clock
hotel I have decided to ride on one of those, first thing in the morning.
mechanism which has 47 bells, each with different sounds and functions.
Bruges has an array of hotels to choose from. The boutique hotel
Each one of those 366 steps to reach its top is worth the trouble for the panoramic view atop. The view of the entire canal network through the city is nothing but picture perfect. All the work out proved to be quite the 50 | FWD LIFE | NOV 2011
I stayed was simple and artistically designed. But it had no restaurant
§
attached. When you plan a trip it is safe to opt for a bed and breakfast in Bruges.
I woke up in the morning to the sound of the cathedral bells ringing out. The streets of Bruges are
§
elegant and splendour. The stained glass windows, gilt furnishings-
active even in the morning with the pedestrians mov-
including the remarkable pulpit in the shape of a
ing to and fro. I checked out of the hotel and found a
celestial orb-and exquisitely painted panels are all
restaurant at Burg Square that serves authentic Belgian
feast for the eyes. In contrast is the downstairs which
breakfast. There I had the most delicious breakfast ever
is simple and enchanting.
with mouth watering waffles (do they called Belgian
A visit to Bruges won’t be complete without a
waffles just waffles?). Outside the restaurant was a
visit to Choco-Story, the chocolate museum. It tells
horse and buggy waiting and I took a carriage ride
the story of the transformation of cocoa into choco-
through the town. It was like a fairy tale. My rat, err;
late, and how Bruges became famous for Chocolates.
horse man entertained me with tales from yester years
I had lunch at a café near the museum and prepared
until he dropped me off at Burg Square. Needless to say
to bid adieu to The Venice of the North. But the story
that I did enjoy being Cindrella for a short time.
of Bruges still goes on…
Burg square houses the Basilica of the Holy Blood, named after its prize relic; a rock crystal vial containing coagulated blood of Christ which found its way to
Rebecca Chandy
Belgium about 1,000 years ago. On Fridays it is brought
A counsellor and a food & travel enthusiast. She
for veneration and on Ascension Day the relic becomes
found her true calling in travelling a few years back
the focus of the Procession of the Holy Blood, which is attended by thousands. The upper part of the church is
§
and has been a vagabond ever since.
Photo Credits Rebecca Chandy
Waiting for me there was one of the tastiest foods in the world - pain au chocolat. It looks like our puffs with the filling made of chocolate. If I say pain au chocolat is the pseudonym for Manna from heaven, it won’t be an exaggeration.
2011 NOV | FWD LIFE | 51
Diaspora Diaries
Kochi Pa This night has no dawn. While a thriving night life still remains a distant dream for most malayalees here is a man who spends his days and nights in Chicago reminiscing about one of his unforgettable nights in Kochi Pattanam.
I
t’s July 24th Saturday night, my close group
going to be good. That tonight, we are going to
of friends and I decide to celebrate since this
have the time of our lives, and that everything
will be our last night out together in Kochi
in life is going to be A-Okay. Only my home-
for a while. We start off at Dream hotel rooftop,
town Cochi Pattanam can guarantee me this.
and enjoy the beautiful views and the sooth-
Back in Chicago, after work, my friends and I
ing winds. Not another rooftop anywhere
enjoy the evenings quite a bit, but nights out in
else in the world can give me this feeling of
Chicago are quite different from Cochin. The bars
belonging. We head out to Avenue Regent -
and clubs are always packed in the summer, and
Mezzo, and then after that, like always, top the
the popular ones always have pretty big lines to
night out at our second home – Pai Dosa. The
get in. However, they all lack the life, the excite-
famous Salt’N Pepper dosa will make sure I
ment and the sheer fun feeling that bars and
sleep well tonight! This is the end of my trip to
lounges in Cochin offer you. I miss the feeling of
my own town, till I come back this December!
being in my hometown, the feeling that just out-
Kochi Pattanam has always offered me
side this lounge are the same streets that I spent
phenomenally exciting nights out. This is my
a majority of my lifetime with my friends during a
town, and this is my home. “Me and my boys”
better part of my school years. The bars in Cochin
will be back in town soon enough. When I am
offer you a certain f “good times” feeling which
out with my friends in Cochin, there is a reas-
alcoholic establishments of any scale anywhere
suring feeling in my mind that everything is
else in the world fail to do with such charm. The ambience, the view and the service that you get in Cochin are unparalleled. Here in the Chicago clubs and bars, it’s usually so
52 | FWD LIFE | NOV 2011
attanam by Paul John
chaotic; you have to wait so long to get your
non-stop all night excitement. The atmosphere,
drink on! In Cochin, regardless of the crowd and
the thrill and the fun of sitting on the benches
of activities and a great view along the lake.
the chaos, the service you get is impeccable,
outside at these Thattukadas and eating simply
However, Kochi Pattanam is what hits home
down to the number of ice cubes you request
is the best way to finish off an exciting night out
in my heart. I miss the vibrancy, the greenery,
in your drinks! I perpetually miss the fact that
with your friends. This lip-smacking goodness
the monsoons and the colorful Kochi life. I miss
I can order in my mother tongue. The “chetta”
of spicy flavored hot Thattukada food offers
hanging out along Marine Drive, meeting up at
/ “aniya” calls to the bartenders always add a
me a small piece of heaven every single time!
Real Arabia for Shawarma and Sharjah Shake,
certain fun and smoothness to my drinks!
Chicago is a phenomenal city with tons
Of course, then comes the challenge of
walking down M.G.Road, running through
The “touchings” we get at our local places,
getting back home. Begging and pleading your
and trying to catch a late-night movie and
are what epitomize the night-life experience in
auto-chettan’s for one last night ride, the sheer
Padma or Shenoy’s. Then of course the late
negotiation skills involved in convincing them
night eat-outs at Chariot or Highway Garden
to take you all the way to the edge of the city, all
or your favorite Thattukada! No other city can
together makes it an exciting night! Here in Chi-
make up for these, when Kochi comes calling!
Kochi Pattanam has always offered me phenomenally exciting nights out. This is my town, and this is my home. “Me and my boys” will be back in town soon enough.
cago, taxi-cabs are always easy to come by, but you miss out on the exciting challenge of having to find an auto home. When you have a stomach
The author, Paul John is a Kochi
full of Old Monk Rum, Porotta, curry and the
fanatic and a diehard mallu who
little auto rickshaw is “tuk-tuk” racing to get you
passes of as a software professional
home, you realize, tonight was a good night!
at orbitz world wide, Chicago.
Cochin. I wholeheartedly believe that Beef Dry Fry and Chicken Tikka add spice to your night! PHOTO CREDITS : Jinson Abraham, Vinod M. Venugopal
I am yet to have another culinary experience that can give me a “feel-good” high in life! After a good night of social activities in Chicago, we usually end up in one of the early morning breakfast places. These are usually crowded with people trying to get one last bite in, before hitting the sack to sleep off a Sunday. Let me assure you, these places and what they offer, do not even hold a candle to what Thattukada’s in Cochin offer you. Kerala’s national food by choice, the infamous Porotta and curry is the best thing there is to follow a series of 2011 NOV | FWD LIFE | 53
Health Desk
Dr Anand Kumar MD, DM The author is a Neurologist at Amrita Institute of Medical sciences.
It’s in your hands,master T he antibiotic is one of the major inventions of mankind. There are many types of antibiotics for all diseases, for the same reason we
membrane etc will rupture when we put a venflon or while using an
tend to be relaxed on the non-judicial use of antibiotics. One of
intubation. The use of antibiotics by right prescriptions and right checkups
the biggest problems that medical research and development faces today
will reduce the drastic aftereffects of antibiotics. We must be socially
is bacterial resistance due to overuse of antibiotics. The inventor of the
conscious in the judicious usage of antibiotics.
first antibiotic Pencillin, Sir Alexander Fleming had cautioned not to use it
Hand washing is the main remedy to prevent infections. Hand
unless there was a properly diagnosed reason for it to be used, and that if it
washing as prevention against infection was first implemented by the
were used, never to use too little, or for too short a period, since this causes
Hungarian physician Ignaze Philipp Semmelweis in 1847 and this drastically
bacterial resistance to antibiotics to develop.
reduced incidence of puerperal fever in obstetrical clinics. Nowadays
The human body is a wonderful phenomenon which has its
hospitals have reminders for hand washing and they also teach hand
own resistant capacity and is equipped to protect itself against the
washing techniques. Many hospitals have vigilance teams for the constant
microorganisms. All the organs in our body have different abilities to fight
monitoring of hygiene. Hand washing and hygiene doesn’t belong only to
with microbes. Blinking capacity and tears of eyes, coughing and sneezing
doctors. The nurses, visitors, bystanders and the whole community must
of respiratory tract are all natural reactions of the body to foreign particles.
have to be cautious about the infections.
As a part of antibiotic treatment our body will lose its natural protective measures and the after effect is a huge multidrug bacterial resistance.
In future we will have to take many precautions to protect us from the highly equipped new generation bacteria. In that era, if an infection comes we will be doomed as there will be no other options to combat it.
The bacterium has already made aces against the latest antibiotic called Carbapenem. We think that the latest is more effective but bacteria is equipping much faster than our Research and development. Over-the-counter use of antibiotics is a major threat to future antibiotic resistance. The bacterium has already made aces against the latest antibiotic called Carbapenem. We think that the latest is more effective but bacteria is equipping much faster than our research and development. Acinetobacter Baumanni is a hero among the resistant bacteria. Due to this bacterial resistance the most infectious division in a hospital is the ICU. When it comes to treating a patient, a doctor can’t just trust the reports. The protective membranes of skin, oral cavity, lungs, mucus 54 | FWD LIFE | NOV 2011
There is a story of a Zen master who was envious of his brilliant disciple. To belittle him, the master holds a butterfly in his hands and asks the disciple if it is alive or dead. If the disciple says it is alive, the master can crush it and if he says it is dead the master can release it. The disciple said ‘Master it’s in your hands’. We would do well to follow his words.
Major Threats • Emerging bacterial resistance against latest broad-spectrum antibiotics • Lack of research in antibiotic field • Over-the-counter use of antibiotics
What we could do • Research should be based on threats and not for new markets • Ensure the judicious use of anti-biotic • Ensure hand washing and hygiene
On The Road
PowerPlay Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder
G
allardo is a special breed of fighting Bulls. A snorting war machine,
they produce 3000 cars a year. Miura, Murcielago, Gallardo, are a few cars
with malice in its eyes, column like legs, and on a small provocation
that set the pulse racing for super car fans.
would destruct everything in its path. This is Lamborghini Gallardo,
Gallardo is Lamborghini’s best selling model; from 2003 more than
a world famous sport car, with all the characteristics of the Gallardo breed.
10,000 cars have been sold. “FWD is test driving Gallardo’s variant called
A small touch on the accelerator makes this machine race to 100km in 4.2
Spyder” .The 2008 L.P 560.4 Spyder variant is going to be tested to its
sec, who can beat that?
limits.
Lamborghini
Drive
Ferrari, Maserati , Lamborghini these beauties belong to Italy, this is the
The engine fires up, my feet on the accelerator, 10 valves open
chant on every sport car enthusiast’s lips. All of them are Super car breed
up like anti aircraft guns, the Gallardo pounces, without a slight tremor
of sports cars. 1960 saw the birth of Lamborghini. In 1998 it became the
on the steering wheel. A glace, showed 140km on the console,
subsidiary of Volkswagen’s Audi. Even though a subdidary of a big company,
the world has given way to Spyder. This cute beast has a
56 | FWD LIFE | NOV 2011
Baiju.N.Nair The author is a automobile connoisseur and Chief Editor of the Malayalam automotive magazine Overtake
techspech
Engine Type 5.2L V10 Power 560 hp @ 8000 rpm Transmission 6-Speed Automated Manual
market segment
Luxury, Performance
price 2.2 crores
maximum speed of 315km/h true to its Italian tradition.
View A road hugging beauty, with wide geometric sloping bonnet, a wide open air dam on both sides of the bumper. A bull like single barrel
A road hugging beauty,with wide geometric sloping bonnet, a wide open air dam on both sides of the bumper. A bull like single barrel headlight is unique to Lamborghini.
headlight is unique to Lamborghini. It looks like a notched arrow ready to fly, from the sides. 19inch alloy wheels take up most of
Interior The inside is plain and functional, unlike the price tag, an aggressive 2 seater. A small navigation screen on the dashboard and Ac switches below it, and fuel, temp consoles to top it. Convertible switches next to the automatic gear switch. Limbs of the paddle shift are on both sides of the steering, even though
calls for a huge air intake. This soft top super car, at the flip of a
it’s a fixed speed automatic gear, it can be driven automatically. Interior components
the sides. A bulging body line that begin from
switch the top folds up in 20 sec, and Gallardo
includes polycarbonate rear and side
half the door ends in air scope. A back engine
becomes verve topless speed machine.
windows. 2011 NOV | FWD LIFE | 57
Troubled Cleft
George Peter The Author was the erstwhile vocalist for the rock band 13 AD and a popular singer and music director.
Music’s Kiss of Death A
ll that glitters is not Gold’ and ‘All
formally educated and others, not . To the
the Gold in the World can’t
former its years of dedication and more than
save your Soul ! Wise men perhaps
1000 hours of practice to make their mark,
prophesied and coined these phrases.
but to the latter, it’s a Divine Gift, I endorse
Probably they knew what the world was
this. This Gift is not something to ‘Tom Tom’
getting into... If you’ve noticed, over all the
about but one should go with the subtlety of
centuries before the 20th, there was minimal
the ‘ Hi Hats’ to ensure that the beats of your
development in almosteverything except
musicianship are kept in time with humility.
Music, which has remained constant. No one
‘Sometimes fame and popularity become a religion and that’s when your sanity gets
It’s over the last Century the pace in development in almost every field has galloped by Bridges and Runways!!!
thrown out of the window… not in the case of all, though strangely enough, you could call it a coincidence…. Amy Winehouse mysteriously steppedaway from this world a while ago and joined the 27 CLUB!! Jim Morrison with a heart attack, Jimi Hendrix asphyxiated,
hasdiscovered an 8th note, correct me if I’m
Janis Joplin with an overdose, to name
wrong... and if you did, the world should
but a few have travelled the road
acknowledge this!
less taken, that ends at door number 27 …Kurt Cobain who joined with a shot gun blast
galloped by Bridges and Runways!!! (Yes! I
to his head was obsessed
coined this phrase. Leaps and bounds are
with the 27 Club , as his sister
still shorter! l o l ) But The Discipline of Music
says, but then again, who would
uses 7 notes or less and all the songs in the
plan their own take off??
world that are being composed, uses these
This is probably an overdose
notes and the formulas, permutations and
of fame & popularity, whenit gets
combinations available.
out of hand and hits your head, it’s
Musicians on the other hand, some are 58 | FWD LIFE | NOV 2011
not music anymore but noise!!
image courtesy_www.celebs101.com
It’s over the last Century the pace in development in almost every field has
New Pickings in the
Sound-Garden By Tony Joseph Thomas
Dev D definitely has influenced new composers Prashant Pillai (Shaitan) and Ram Sampath (Delhi Belly / Luv Ka The End) to experiment new sounds and styles. And rock happens to be one of the favorite genres used by composers these days. Composers like Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, Amit Trivedi, Vishal-Shekhar, pretty much everybody is contributing to the trend of new sounds now. Also, rock as a genre is being incorporated a lot lately. For the past few years, songs with rock influences have been doing very well because our
The In- your- face music that keeps topping the charts have their own stories to tell. TONY JOSEPH Thomas takes us through the evolution of different genres in film music.
F
ilm music is changing and was always
the kind of cinema anymore where a girl
audiences are growing to like that type of music.
is yearning for a boy. The whole system of
The biggest change in today’s film mu-
film making is changing. As the language
sic scene is that you can have regular music
and the fabric of films are changing, it is
in a film and there is room for non-regular
obvious that the music will change.
music. Also, at the end of the day it’s the film
Though the main stream rock culture in Bollywood music started with Dil
This trend might continue for a year or two.
Chahta Hai (Title track), the most influ-
Would love to see what happens next.
ential music album was Rock On. Be it cutting-edge music of film Shaitan
changing. From MSV to Ilayaraja to A.R
or the rock-infested soundtrack of Luv Ka The
Rahman to Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy to Amit
End or folk-rock Chappa Kurish, young and hip
Trivedi, the change continues to happen. These
compositions are given priority. Not only
changes are lot associated with the change in
that, now more than one composer works
technology and the process of music production.
on a single album to add that extra factor.
New bold numbers like “The mutton song”,
with non-film music bands. For instance,
Bose” and "Anakallan' music has turned a new
Indian Ocean composed for Black Friday
leaf. The popularity of the numbers, replete with
and Peepli Live, Kailasa gave music for
punchy, unconventional and slang-laden lyrics
Dasvidaniya and Bhayanak Maut compos-
laced with pacy tunes, has elbowed out sugary
ed a song for Shaitan. Malayalam rockband
romantic numbers from youngsters’ playlists.
Avial's promo song for 'Salt and Pepper',
Songs signify what we like. The youthful
'Motherjane's promo song for Anwar In Malayalam, it was Jassie Gift who
adolescents. Basically who makes a song a hit?
brought up a considerable change with his raps
It’s us, our generation, so it’s right that now
and reggae's. His song Lajjavathiye was dubbed
musicians are making songs keeping us in mind
into 8 other languages. But this trend
Songs like ‘D K Bose’ and ‘Karma is a bitch’
didn't last long because of its repeti-
gained immediate popularity because they
tiveness and lack of soul. Amit
are fast, energetic and, on the whole, fun. With
Trivedi with his Emotional Atyachar
the growing number of young people, it’s
introduced a new style. With his
natural to cater to that section and non-film
innovative music arrangements and
music styles too have seeped into music.
brass tones he bagged a national
Cinema is also changing. We don’t have
The author is the CEO, Tune4 Music Group
Sometimes filmmakers even collaborate
“Karma is a bitch”, "Chappa Kurish", “Bhaag D K
feel of the songs makes them a hit amongst
that dictates the music that will be used.
award for his debut film music. 2011 NOV | FWD LIFE | 59
Viewfinder with sarcastically raised eyebrows, arguing how such & such a scene in one of the movies could have been so illogical. I’ve had one laughing at me in a crowded mall (yes, that was embar-
Sanjay Cherian A notable Script writer whose writing has changed the face of Malayalam movie industry.
MEA CULPA H
rassing) for writing a scene which had a factual error. I’ve had them asking why their favourite actors are letting them down by acting in movies which even their 10 year old finds ridiculous! I can hardly reply – because you want it! No, they don’t! No, the actors don’t! It’s me the writer and my laziness to tread the untrodden path that leaves the ordinary Malayali cheated out of the magic of the movies! Sometimes it is because I don’t have the time - I am committed with movies which I have to finish writing by next Christmas. That gives me just
e narrated three draft concepts – each
blame, I ask myself and the answer is – I am to
three months to finish a script. I can hardly afford
unique, engrossing and enviably out-of-
blame.
to write rough drafts before the final one. Even
the box.
Trust me, no actor in the industry desires to
when I am not very okay with a scene that I have
“Why don’t you make these into movies, Sir?”,
do a senseless role. When they do one, they know
written, I let it pass for the fear of the three other
I asked. “Because ‘they’ say the audience wouldn’t
they are doing one. Fortunately or unfortunately,
scripts dangling over my head like Damocles
accept them” – “they” being the so-called pundits
when such a movie succeeds, they are forced to
swords, demanding to be finished. And naturally
of cinema – the producers, directors, writers. It’s
do churn-outs from the same recipe again and
and inevitably I leave out the research. This leads
“they” who unfortunately decide if a movie is to
again. And I, the scriptwriter laments, “I can’t
to a character who takes over as District Collector
be canned or not.’
break rules because the audience needs the
a day after he has cleared his IAS examination or
I was sitting in Mr. Kamalhassan’s office. I
conventional.” I would go on to quote examples
India’s top lawyer who wins a complicated case
would call it one of the most precious days of
of hundreds of run-of-the-mill stuff which made
with elementary commonsensical arguments
my life. No, not for the reason you think – being
And sometimes, it could be that I just don’t
in the company of a star the whole of India would kill to get a glimpse of – no, but for the contagious energy which made me raring to go, for the youthful zest which made me look old in comparison for the umpteen numbers of screenplay techniques I learned from him in less than 6 hours. The thirst for innovation was written all over him! It got me thinking – is it just Mr. Kamalhassan? Is it just he who wants to do movies which throw conventions to the winds? I don’t think so!
have the talent
Yes, we all dream of making our Rashomons and being immortalised. If only that is what the producers and directors and most importantly the audiences wanted! We’ll never know till we try, will we?
I have seen similar fire in Mr. Mammootty. The
I can’t think of anything new
(or don’t feel the need to) because I am stuck with some 2000 odd images from movies I have seen and got inspired by. I just follow the rules Mohanlal has to have a punch line; Mammootty has to have the last word; and the heroine has to fall in love – even if the hero has slapped and insulted her (in fact, sometimes it is a pre-requisite). I am the very contended frog who has no desire for the sea even though it knows that it is out there. I try to make myself believe that the blueness, vastness and depth of the ocean are highly
man transforms into an enthusiastic teenager the
it big at the box office. But who are these audi-
over-estimated. I am afraid to try to swim there.
moment you show him the willingness to boot
ences? How many among the three odd crores
Yes, we all dream of making our Rashomons
out the clichés. Did I hear the inevitable? “Then
do I know personally? Come on, I don’t even
and being immortalised. If only that is what the
why are they doing mediocre movies?” Because
know what my best friend’s favorite dessert is
producers and directors and most importantly
they have no choice. They have to choose the
but I unabas hedly lecture on what people out
the audiences wanted! We’ll never know till we
lesser evil – not the better of the best. Who is to
there. I have had movie goers come up to me,
try, will we?
60 | FWD LIFE | NOV 2011
Cover to Cover
Of Smoke and Wars By Nanditha Nair
“L
ike a Chinese lantern the image
‘The Ibis’ and its owner Bahram Modi, after its
was complicit. Ghosh reveals most of the world
seemed to hang before him, light-
tempestuous encounter with an inclement whirl-
leaders including Washington, Coolidge and
ing his path as he made his way aft
wind. In “River of Smoke” Ghosh retraces the jour-
Roosevelt had their families trading Opium.
through the cramped, innards of the ship to
ney of ‘The Ibis’ a ship carrying a consignment of
India was no different. Bombay was then known
the spacious, sumptuously appointed poop-
convicts and indentured laborers from Calcutta
as the Opium City. The Tagore family had
deck where he and the ship’s officers had their
to Canton, with a background of Opium Wars.
their fortunes from Opium trading. “But don’t
quarter.”. The quaint voice resonated through
When quizzed about Opium Wars, Ghosh
think for a second that Rabindra Nath Tagore
the glass doors of Vivanta as Amitav Ghosh
spoke about the quarrels between Britain and
was ever proud of his ancestral trade, in fact
ceases his book reading of “River of Smoke”. The
China over the sale of opium. Ghosh observes
he has never ever acknowledged about the
that the entire world was involved in Opium
roots of his family fortune” chuckles Ghosh.
trading at the time. “One could even say that the
Ghosh spoke about the quarrels between Britain and China over the sale of opium. Ghosh observes that the entire world was involved in Opium trading at the time.
Much to the delight of the native audience,
modern world is built on Opium” states Ghosh.
Ghosh also spoke about his Kerala connection.
The greatest threat that China faced inside the
“The studies on trading route via Muziris and the
Great wall was that of the Opium. “The regional
Arab influence in the Northern Kerala contrib-
history of entire 19th century can be summed
uted to my work. My research for the River of
up as the resistance of China against Opium”
Smoke wouldn’t have been possible had it not
Immense supply of Opium was made avail-
been the support and assistance of my
able in China by the intentional and calculated
Malayalee friends.” Ghosh’s long and tedious
British plot in which allegedly Queen Elizabeth
research for the Ibis trilogy took him to many
audience, floating in an Opiate trance, is brought
for months in a row to get translated a letter
back from the deck of the Anahita, harbored at
written in Arabic in Jewish script. Ghosh also
the port city of Mauritius to the realm of reality
spoke fondly about his life in Trivandrum in
and the Banquet hall at Vivanta Taj Malabar, in
1983 working with the Centre for Develop-
the port city of Cochin.
ment Studies. “Sea of Poppies” was a herald. The
The reading was part of Amitav Ghosh’s
true story starts with “River of Smoke”. Amitav
latest book launch and his all India tour con-
leaves the audience in the quiet anticipa-
ceived by Penguin India. The audience is eager
tion to wonder about what is yet to come.
to dive into the second volume of the Ibis
The Reading was followed by a book signing
trilogy. The prequel, “The Sea of Poppies”, was
which saw his numerous aficionados approach-
shortlisted for the Booker Prize in 2008.Global
ing the author with their hard bound copies,
readers has been waiting to know the fate of
for that very elusive personalised signed copy. 2011 NOV | FWD LIFE | 61
PHOTO CREDITS : Rittu J. Jacob
a place. Once he had to stay in Thallassery
Family Matters
The curious case of
Chinese Toys By Gisen George Varghese
imports of Chinese toys after Beijing warned the move could seriously jeopardize bilateral trade ties. The trade ministry said Chinese toys could be imported but needed to be certified as safe according to international standards. Due to the enormous power and influence of China on other countries Chinese toys are still easily available on the markets and because of the cheaper prices and new designs, Chinese toys become more popular in the
The globalised world market order has opened up new prod-
phthalates. These chemicals can cause hormone
Indian markets than Indian toys. The Indian toys
malfunction and reproductive problems.
made of organic dyes which are harmless to
The Chinese toys which are coated with
children are vanishing from the markets due to
ucts markets to various coun-
inorganic paints are black listed globally for
the competition with the cheaper Chinese toys.
tries. One of the major benefi-
the toxic contents used in the paints. Some
‘yes, we are aware of the poisonous content
western countries banned Chinese toys as a
in the Chinese toys, It is only due to the lack
remedy measure for the internal health security.
of demand that we replaced Indian toys with
Barak Obama in 2008 during his campaign in
Chinese toys’ says Mr. Anil Kumar a salesman
New Hampshire told voters "I would stop the
of a Chinese toys shop in Broadway, Cochin.
ciaries of this system is low cost, Chinese toy makers.
I
ntroduction of low priced Chinese toys have
import of all toys from China. Now, I have to
given rise to a new consuming pattern all over
say that that's about 80 percent of toys that are
have now moved to the Chinese toy business
the world. The trend in India is no different,
Many artisans in the Indian toy industry
being imported right now," Chinese Foreign
because of the relatively high profit. 70 to 80
but behind the alluring plastic toys lies a great
Ministry reacted saying that the comment
per cent of the toy shops have replaced Indian
danger. In 2007, according to the report of Con-
was “unobjective, unreasonable and unfair,”
toys with Chinese toys. The middle men in the
sumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), every
On January 2009 India banned imports
one of the 24 kinds of Chinese toys available in
of several types of toys from China for six
the market has been recalled from United States
months "in the public interest" but without
due to lead poisoning hazards and violations of
giving further details of why. "The question of
lead safety standards. In 2011 May Greenpeace
banning Chinese toys was on the grounds of
urged authorities in Hong Kong and China to
public health and safety," Commerce Minister
ban dangerous chemicals that were detected in
Kamal Nath said after a conference. "It is a
children’s toys. The toys contain plastic softening
matter which is of public concern rather than
chemicals that have been banned in the United
commercial and public concern has to be
States and Europe. In tests carried out by an
given priority over commercial concern," he
independent lab the toys were found to contain
added. After six months India lifted a ban on
In 2011 May Greenpeace urged authorities in Hong Kong and China to ban dangerous chemicals that were detected in children’s toys. The toys contain plastic softening chemicals that have been banned in the United States and Europe. business are also promoting the Chinese toys due to the instant money. Thus the Chinese toys are now cheaper in the Indian markets than earlier. Indian buyers have a greater choice of toys and at lower prices. For the Chinese toy makers, this provides an opportunity to expand business. The opposite is true for Indian toy makers. They face losses, due to low market share.
62 | FWD LIFE | NOV 2011
Gadgets
iphone 5 As we are waiting for the official announcement of iPhone5, new rumors have popped up suggesting that the release would be most likely by the end of 2011. Apple, after all, always generates a ton of gossips in the absence of real details about upcoming devices. Not even its existence or development has been hinted at by anyone from Apple. But still, iPhone 5 is on everyone’s lip. Software-wise, iPhone 5 may not be a huge update over iPhone 4.One thing that has always stunned experts is the way Apple brings changes to its software.
Cam Card- Business card reader Cam Card Business Card Reader is the definitive
Main features*
Main Specifications*
business organization tool for any business person or
• New glass display
• iOS 5
networker! This app allows you to take a picture with
• 8 MP Camera with Dual Flash
• iCloud
your phone’s camera of business cards and
• A5 Processor
• HD Video Recording and HDMI Output
capture the information saving time.
• More Gesture-based – No Home Button
• World Phone with SIM-less Design
• Updated Storage and RAM
Superspeed USB Portable HDD Verbatim’s Mac compatible portable Superspeed USB 3.0 portable HDD allows for backups and a transfer rate 10 x faster than USB 2.0. USB 3.0 is available
Main features:
in splashy colors - Caribbean Blue
•
and Hot Pink as to make your
Automatically trim and enhance card im age before save into Card Holder.
HDD a style icon.
•
Product Specifications:
•
Options to save into the phone/Gmail/ Automatically recognize the language
•
Super Speed USB 3.0
•
100% compatible with all USB ports
•
High-capacity storage: 500GB
•
Nero BackItUp & Burn Essentials software
•
•
Industry-leading 7-year limited warranty
Price: Free, `335 (Western Languages), `572 (Full)
Price `4799.
type of the card image content. •
Batch shooting or importing card images for recognition Email signature recognition
2011 NOV | FWD LIFE | 63
* Rumoured features and specifications
Exchange contact.
Potpourri
Fashion icon we spotted in the maddening crowd. Clad in black skinny Spiker jeans, a hooded pullover t-shirt, and a black cotton shirt, Safdar A.S. was sporting an uber cool look when we saw him outside the Oberon Mall, Kochi. Carrera shades, leather wrist strap, Monte Blanc watch, yellow stud belt and a pair of converse sneakers completed his looks. He compiles his style statement from Shadows, Penta Menaka, Kochi.
64 | FWD LIFE | NOV 2011
Star Gaze Abhishek Dhawan Astrologer | www.askganesha.com 09818313151
Aries (March 21-April 19)
Taurus (April 20-May 20)
Gemini (May 21-June 21)
Cancer (June 22-July 22)
This month
You should
Your creative
During the
could bring
look into
ideas and
month, you will
you lot of op-
the past and
strategic
get help from
portunity in
think where
approach is
those people
front of you
you went
going to help
who are in
in regards to professional life.
wrong and take corrective steps
you to further surge ahead on
positions of authority. Some of
However your criteria of
for the future. Seniors would
the professional front. There will
you may visit foreign countries. If
rejection or selection could
prove helpful. Those trying to
be new responsibilities on your
you are already married, you are
ensure the success with those
convey their true feelings to
shoulder. A hesitating nature
likely to get irritated on difference
opportunities in future. Chances
their love will need coura-
would prevent from develop-
of opinion. There is a need to
of getting married to a rich
geous efforts to succeed.
ing a romantic relationship.
understand the feelings of partner.
person are quiet bright.
Lucky Color | Green.
Lucky Color | Lemon.
Lucky Color | Yellow.
Lucky Color | White.
Lucky Number | 8
Lucky Number | 4
Lucky Number | 4
Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)
Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)
Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)
Lucky Number | 5
Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) Efforts to en-
At profes-
You shall enjoy
The start of the
hance career
sional front,
lot of popular-
month would
prospects
your creative
ity and public
be bit strenu-
are likely to
energy and
support. Your
ous for you.
succeed.
past experi-
plans of giving
Things will be
Some auspicious event would
ence would enable achieving
new shape to your business,
delayed due to non expect-
take place. Those who are in
set targets. You shall establish
to open new branches and to
ing obstacles. You are advised
the field of public dealing will
new business and modernize
expand the business shall be
to maintain cordial relationship
have to make special efforts
your existing one by buying new
successful.
with your superiors and clients.
to achieve desired results.
machinery and technology.
Lucky Color | Silver.
Lucky Color | Beige.
Lucky Color | Brick red.
Lucky Color | Indigo.
Lucky Number | 11
Lucky Number | 1
Lucky Number | 9
Lucky Number | 5
Aquarius (Jan 20-Feb 18)
Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)
Sagittarius (Nov 22-Dec 21) Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan 19) You would
During the
This month
Most of your
get some time
month you
you will be
ambitious plans
to follow-up
need to be
focused more
are likely to
and socialize
patient in your
on commu-
be executed.
with the
approach and
nication than
Your image will
people who matter you the
try to avoid hasty decision.
any other thing. You may get
enhance and a new glow would
most. Cordial approach with
You may have to postpone
involved in religious activities.
shine. If looking for some overseas
everyone in family would bring
your new business venture
Remember not to impose your
opportunities there are a possibility
you happiness and peace. You
for the next month. It is better
thoughts on others. At work you
that you may get such chances. A
may experience some delay at
to control all your unneces-
may have to put more effort to
new qualification or skill promises
workplace due to travel and oth-
sary spending. There will be
satisfy your higher authorities.
to enhance employability. Those
ers unforeseen circumstances.
romantic moments which will
A romantic journey brings joys.
single and searching may succeed
You need to follow a strict diet.
kindle a new kind of love.
Lucky Color | Pink.
in finding their life partner.
Lucky Color | Ruby red.
Lucky Color | Black.
Lucky Number | 9
Lucky Color | Navy Blue.
Lucky Number | 10
Lucky Number | 2
Lucky Number | 7 2011 NOV | FWD LIFE | 65