WtzupKochi - July - August 2016

Happenings, events, eat-outs, offers and More in kochi "Kochi's perspectives are changing."

Events, Eat-outs, Offers & More in the city

www.wtzupcity.com

MAMTA MOHANDAS

Also at Trivandrum & Calicut. Now at Calicut Issue 3 Volume 4 JUL-AUG 2016

/wtzupkochi

Think Big, Act Small

Thinkpalm Technologies shares the tale of their cogent service ethos that has lead to their growth

an exciting upgrade

6 Reasons Why the Skoda Rapid Will Take You to the Next Level

Poetic Prescriptions meet haris saleem; doctor by profession and musician by passion

FOLLOW US @WTZUPKOCHI ON

WtzupCity.com/EVENTS

01Jul-30jul

17Jul

16jul-17jul

13jul-17jul

07:00pm Onwards The Muse Room, Panampilly Nagar, Kochi 953 910 9000

11:00am to 03:00pm River Bourne Center, Elamana Jetty, Thrippunithura 974 647 0621

02:00pm to 08:00am From RedrawLife Kochi 963 328 1204

11:00am to 07:00pm Durbar Hall Art Gallery, Marine Drive, Kochi 974 447 2649

16jul

23JUl

24jul

29JUl

Dhanam Business Summit and Award Nite

Photowalk to the Mighty Athirapally!

diva's night

06:00pm to 07:00pm Riverbourne Centre, Elamana Jetty, Tripunithura, Kochi 974 647 0621

05:30pm to 08:30pm Le Meridien Kundannoor 907 257 0050

09:00am to 05:00pm Athirappilly Water Falls, Kerala 963 328 1204

30jul

05aug-07aug

Freshwater Scuba Diving Fest

Flasko Da Gama - Area 1 AGM and Dance Competition

The July Room at The Muse Room

The Monsoon Dance Show

09:00am to 05:00pm Thiruvankulam, Kerala 963 328 1204

23jul Searock 2016 Kochi Elimination 02:00pm to 06:00pm JTPAC, Kochi, 773 622 5715

Professional Actor Training Workshop

Monsoon Trek To Dudhsagar Waterfalls!

Sanskriti Painting Exhibition

07:00pm Onwards Crowne Plaza, Kundannoor 0484 286 5000

Crowne Plaza, Kundannoor

View more at www.wtzupcity.com For associations and ads call: 9947390022

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WtzupCity.com/OFFERS

LULU

Hidesign began its End of Season Sale – Up to 50%OFF

OBERON

CENTRE SQUARE

Flat 50% Off Sale at Reliance Footprint 0484 446 6020

Get upto 50% OFF at ONLY 0484 404 1888

Upto 50% Off Sale at Addons, Lulu Mall

Wrangler End of Season Sale

Upto 50% Off Sale at Vero Moda

0484 403 5090

0484 406 6829

0484 402 8880

Upto 50% Off at Jack and Jones 0484 402 8880

Levis Buy 1 Get 1

20% off on all styles*from only!

Hurry!!

UPTO 50% OFF AT LABEL'M

Upto 50% Off at Mothercare, Lulu Mall 0484 400 0266

BUY 2 get 2 @ LEe

get 40% off on our winter collection 2015

Upto 50% off at BIBA

Flat 40% Off at Puma 0484 403 2921

End of Season Sale at Basics Life

10 hot and crispy chicken pieces for rs.

350/- only

Upto 50% off at LIFESTYLE

0484 717 7777

0484 391 6187

* The offers listed in the above page could be subjected to terms and conditions.

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OTHERS

Soch Red Dot Sale Soch, Edappally

Amazing offers from Choice of Beauty Services 773 600 0028

For associations and ads call: +91 994 739 0022

TM

WtzupCity.com/FEATURE

A Unique Platform for Students of Fashion " The third edition of the glamorous India Design Contest will take place in Kochi

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FWD Media

NDIA DESIGN CONTEST 2016 aims at promoting 100 students of fashion from around the world and give them a creative platform to showcase their design & style, provide them the right guidance from top fashion Icons, and help establish their talent in the Industry. The third edition of the contest IDC 2016, which was earlier known as Ensemble, turns more glamorous and competitive. Over 500 entries from around the world were judged to arrive at the final twenty in the first week of July. The grand finale will take place on September 2nd, in Kochi.

of fashion technology across the globe. Based on the theme ‘Global Vintage Indo-Western Spring-Summer 2016’, Beena Kannan’s initiative was a spectacular event. Out of the 146 teams who submitted their designs, 20 were shortlisted by an eminent jury consisting of Sumi Giriraj, Seema Mahajan, Shahzad Khalim and Radhakrishnan Chakyat. Pearl Academy, Delhi bagged the first prize of Beena Kannan’s Ensemble 2015 Ever-rolling Trophy and 1 lakh cash prize. St. Teresa’s College, Ernakulam and J.D. Institute, Kochi got 2nd and 3rd positions respectively.

The Platform India Design Contest was introduced by Beena Kannan, designer and CEO, House of Seematti which is the bridal-wear destination for South-India. This is the largest design contest only for students of fashion and has been an annual event which is aimed at fostering the young talented designers and providing them with a forum where they could showcase their style and market their design. It also brings the fashion industry to Kochi.

Appreciation and Awards This year the contest presents a much more competitive and imposing platform for the students. The event will be judged by a panel of judges who are the top most professionals of fashion and design. Participating in the IDC 2016 is much more than the unbelievable cash prize and trophies. It’s an International platform where the students get to meet, interact and seek guidance from the top fashion industry professionals. The registration had over 500 entries, a new landmark. There is an ever-rolling Trophy and Cash Prizes for the Top 3 Winners. 1st Prize is INR 1 Lakh, 2nd Prize is INR 75000 and 3rd Prize is INR 50000.

Over the Years The last two years of the contest witnessed participation from all the prominent colleges

06

The objective of the contest is to identify, promote and reward budding fashion professionals and make them profession-ready individuals.

Beena Kannan

"

WtzupCity.com/FEATURE

American University in the Emirates, Dubai

2

Amity University, Noida

SNEEK PEEK FROM THE MODEL AUDITIONS

3

Bishop Appasamy College of Arts & Science, Coimbatore

Many talents turned up for the The India Design Contest model auditions in Bengaluru and Kochi.

4

Esmod Jakarta, Indonesia

IDC Final twenty 1

5

Fashion Education at Indonesia

University of Education, Indonesia

6

IEC College of Arts and Fashion, Kathmandu

7

IMS DIA, Noida

8

International Institute of Fashion Design, Pune

9

Inter National Institute of Fashion Technology, Kolata

T

FWD Media

he model auditions for the India Design Contest took place at Bangalore and Kochi. A whole day event, models were adjudged with various criteria to be selected for the the largest design contest for students of fashion in the subcontinent.

IDC has international participation and hence the model selection was extremely crucial. The selected models will be groomed and styled for the fashion contest that will display the designs of selected entries from around the world, to be judged by experts in the industry.

10 Morph Acadmy, Chandigarh 11 National Institute of Design,

Gujarat

12 National Institute of Fashion

Technology, Bengaluru

13 National Institute of Fashion

Technology, Hauz Khas-Delhi

14 National Institute of Fashion

Technology, Kannur

15 National Institute of Fashion

Technology, Navi Mumbai

16 National Institute of Fashion

Technology, Shillong

17 Oriental School of Hotel

Management, Wayanad

18 Pearl Academy, New Delhi 19 Slim’s Fashion and Arts School, Philippines

20 Times School for Interior &

Fashion, Cochin

The final list of participants for IDC features some of the top fashion & design colleges from around the world. The stage is all set for the final showdown on September 2nd.

07

WtzupCity.com/EATOUT

On Top Of the World

C

afe Carpentine is a well kept secret in Kakkanad. With its brick and minimalist interiors, the cafe is a cozy place, near the brain centre of Kochi, Infopark. With various cafe fare, European, desserts and some homemade favorites, the cafe caters to an eclectic palette.

Dishes like Ratatouille, Blackened Chicken, Soups the cafe really does bring a different flavor to town. A great place to have brunch whether you are in a big group or is just looking for some solo flights of fancy.

Beyond the Yolk Go Go for Momos

H

ow many dishes can you make with an egg? The Egg Stop is every egg lovers paradise, and what more, they are open at wee hours to satisfy your midnight cravings. So whether you are a hungry traveler just off the flight at the airport, or a midnight wanderer, you can grab a quick bite or sit down for a leisurely feast of egg dishes. The outlets with the yolk yellow ambience are minimalistic and functional. So if you are looking for something egg’stra, you know where to go.

Must try:

Must try:

Cafe Carpentine 1st Floor Opposite Chackolas Orange Park, Kakkanad, Kochi 11am to 11:30pm 755 993 9393

` 500

Cards accepted WiFi Available

Must try:

Smoking Beef Omelette

Spanish Omlette Cost for Two:

I

t is not just a Momo joint, it is the Momo joint. Big Fat Momo is a fun nook that sometimes conducts events and games in Kacheripady. With various types of momos, noodles, kulfi and more, it is a favorite among Momo lovers in Kochi. They even have an Italian inspired Momo called the Panzerotti.

With its funky seating, you can enjoy the monsoon with a plate of steaming Momos and piping hot black tea. Home delivery is available and they have also opened an outlet at Thevara.

Cost of Two:

The Egg Stop Airport Bypass Junction, Nedumbassery, Kochi 5am to 12am 703 416 5627

` 400

Wifi: Available Cash Only

Panzerotti Big Fat Momo Opp Saritha Savitha Theatres, Kacheripady, Kochi, 11am to 11pm 871 448 7188

Cost of Two:

` 350 Cards accepted Wifi Available

MUST TRY

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Kakkanad 0484 640 4040

Nedumbassery 952 603 3352

Kakkanad 907 207 0713

Marine Drive, Kochi 0484 210 0121

Kadavanthra 0484 401 1153

WtzupCity.com/FEATURE

Think Big Act Small ThinkPalm Technologies shares the tale of their cogent service ethos that has lead to their Paul Uthup growth

B

uilding blocks- The word ushers in a slew of childhood memories right?

They remind us of joyous memories of transforming those basic blocks into our dream structures and sad memories when the entire structure crumbled when the finishing block was placed. So was ThinkPalm, a start-up, ideated by Rejish Unni, Manoj Kongot & Santhosh S and backed by Synergy Group in 2010. Later Biju Nair accompanied them to take on the uphill task of building the blocks to dream structures that connect to the world. To build that structure, we knew we need to engage with like-minded organization and people. Just like each block fitting perfectly into the other in a structure, our people leverage each other’s strengths and work in unison towards our goals. Each day we are adding new blocks to strengthen ourselves, to emerge as a company the world looks up to!

Make a Poised Innovation to the People’s lives: Today we have earned the trust and respect of customers for one simple reason—we have great folks with us.The mantra to gain the trust of clients was simple; we brought passion, pride and experience together that exhibit cogent service ethos to everything

we do. Since the company’s inception in 2010, ThinkPalm has played vital roles in Enterprise, Mobility and Communication domains across US, Japan, Israel, UK, & Singapore. We tug together the right people, processes and expertise to take service from “value enough” to great. We bring into play prime practices- domain insight and expertise, proven technologies, and innovation to assist our customers do their business better by anchoring our broad business acumen, deep rooted technology finesse, extensive portfolio of services and vertically aligned business prototype.

Change is Inevitable: In today’s world, organizations will have to swiftly re-engineer themselves and be more cognizant to changing customer needs. We wanted to strengthen our image meanwhile enhance our growth to new geographies. A more positive vibe to give our brand a new look yet maintains the core values we have kept throughout the years. Our vision to be the world’s greatest service company means that we need to introduce more contemporary and radical solutions that breathe new endurance into daily interactions with customers.

That’s why our brand image is having a great makeover.

Brand Essence & Existence: The brand symbolizes the strong point to innovate and deliver like a great corporate, yet maintain the sociability and versatility of a start-up. It depicts our expertise in shaping up solutions like a potter’s wheel in action and deploying long-term solutions that effectively create breakthrough applications at the intersection of technologies.

The Dandelion flower has a resonance to the people who associate and grow along with us. A single flower can have almost 170 puff seeds which allow it to grow in abundance in a large area. It’s these individual seeds that collectively bring beauty to the entire flower, just like each employee to ThinkPalm!

The new logo, represented by a palm with three dots, emphasizes our mantra “Thoughts into Action”. Just like the ants turn thoughts into action, we had gathered all we can to innovate, connect and empower life around the globe. We promise to bring a new life to the solutions we offer, for a better tomorrow!

To read more about the tale of ThinkPalm and the approach they used to rebrand themselves, head over to WtzupCity.com

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WtzupCity.com/COVERSTORY

Poetic Prescriptions Meet hip hop artist Haris Saleem; a doctor by profession and a musician by passion Maria John

A

Arun A Menon

Lakshmi Babu

stethoscope hangs around his neck by day, by night it is a pair of sleek black headphones. In a time when we remark about the number of medicine and engineering aspirants in our state, here is a doctor who is following his passion. He cannot just assess the beat of the music, he can also assess the beat of your heart. Haris Saleem is the first hip hop artist to rap in Malayalam. It is unfathomable how a student of medicine can even have spare time to read a book, let alone write poetry.

WtzupKochi met Haris and was surprised to see a polite well dressed young man, in

Vipin Vishwanath

Mandalay Hall

contrary to the list of hip hop artists with low waist pants and gold in their teeth. This talent from Kozhikode is currently finishing his house surgency and also his fourth music video, “Chaththa Kakka" with his first band, Street Academics. The doctor of hip hop as a newspaper called him, shot into fame with his addition to the band Mappila Lahala in 2013.

Muhsin Parari directed the young talents and actor Mamukkoya, channeling the veteran’s wisdom in a delivery of the’ spoken word’, a format new to the audience in Kerala.

How do you find time for music and medicine?

You will always find time to do what you love.

I get this feeling that I am supposed to and can do this. It helps not to think too much.

During house surgency there was more time and freedom to pursue my passion. This is also what Muhsin Parari keeps telling us, "follow your heart."

So our doctors, engineers and other professionals would have hidden talents?

There are many talented individuals just in my batch at Calicut Medical College. Many state level winners who are not pursuing it anymore. There is a lot to sacrifice when you are studying medicine, but if you prioritize,

"

Kochi is such a beautiful place and it is also the most happening place in Kerala

10

"

you can do anything. We are all multi talented.

Our schools teach us how to hide, they should teach us how to express.

How did you discover Hip Hop? I was a quiet, studious student and loved poetry in Malayalam and English. Eminem was a break through artist in those days, and I fell in love with hip hop which is basically poetry structured. I started writing a lot and posting in an Orkut group. I received a lot of positive criticism that helped me grow. I discovered more with my friends and band members RJV, Amjad, DJ Vivek and Abhimanyu. There were a lot of battle raps and tournaments. Slam Poetry has influenced me a lot as well. The internet is an important tool for everyone. Haris the hip hop artist was born through the internet.

How difficult is to write Malayalam rap?

I am comfortable in both languages. Malayalam rap is a little more difficult since there are no references. My father's collection of books really helped. My first work in Malayalam got a lot of good comments. Though there are still some who say" music? it sounds like someone just talking!"

WtzupCity.com/COVERSTORY

Any writing compulsions?

Normally you would find me alone pacing in a room with loud music. Sometimes I work out and listen to the beat to get pumped up. Once I get the energy, I start writing.

Tell us about being a part of Mappila Lahala.

It is the most inspiring experience. Muhsin Parari is a great mentor. The band motivates each other and works towards a common goal. Though I knew Mamukkoya before, it is unbelievable to work with him and Reshmi Sathish. Bijibal directed the music and he has been a great influence. Though all of us are from different backgrounds, we are all artists who want to do our best.

What is hip hop to you?

Hip hop originated in the US as a revolutionary art. There is a misconception that hip hop is associated with anti-social behaviour. This is not true. It is a voice of the people. I find it a way to express myself. All of this is an expression. All of this is an art. One beauty of hip hop is that it can be mixed with any genre of music. If I can get a positive message to one or two people, I will be really happy.

HARIS's playlist pick

QUICKIES

Secret Indulgence Naadan Pattukal

Surprising Fact I have a black belt in Karate and I can't sing at all.

Dream Collaborator Kendrick Lamar Inspiring Malayalam Poets A Ayyappan and Murukan Kattakada

Recent Favorite Puzhupuli - Kammattipadam

Ambition To be a great general surgeon

Words to Live By Apply more of your heart and less of your brains.

Current Project A docufiction in which I am acting

Kendrick Lamar To Pimp a Butterfly

Nas Illmatic

Lowkey Soundtrack to the Struggle

Immortal Technique Revolutionary Vol 2

Tupac All Eyez On Me

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WtzupCity.com/EVENTS

rhythm of the night In conversation with one of Kochi's favorite female DJs, Nandini aka DJ Envy Ashwathi Nambiar

place to dance and have fun with my friends. But at the same time, I noticed that there was a lack of choice over music track selection. This reflection opened the doors to DJing and I started to dabble with music mixing.

It was not an easy ride for me. I had to face all possible restrictions from my family and relatives.

L

earning to drop the hottest beats and to spin the disk in a way that makes the crowd lose their minds is not a talent that comes easy. But talent is just the beginning; to establish yourself by seizing your passion and tuning it in a perfect blend is a challenging task no matter what you are pursuing. Meet Nandini aka DJ Envy, one among the few female disc jockeys in the city, who has successfully marked her space in this male dominated sphere. The DJ handling the Ladies Night at Crowne Plaza opens up about her passion,and craze about her profession.

What was your journey like, moving from Dubai,to Delhi to Kochi?

Initially I couldn’t find the right guidance to tune my path. Luckily I got a chance to go to Delhi and there my dreams bloomed. I regularly met my guide, and but there were many hurdles to overcome. I ended my stint in Delhi abruptly and came to Kochi. I joined a prestigious radio station and did part time studies. But I could not dedicating myself to the RJ role whole heartedly. Finally after this attempt that consumed an entire year, I started doing shows on my own.

Female DJs are rather rare, especially in Kochi. What was your inspiration?

It was during my days in Dubai that I initially came to know about DJing. I was more into dancing and found DJ clubs and parties a good

Who gave you a strong support and guidance to pursue your passion?

The major source of my inspiration were my mentors DJ Arvee and DJ Karthik. It was Arvee

who helped me in arranging my very first show.

And whenever there was a requirement for a female DJ, both of them suggested my name.

Being well known DJs in Kochi, they were able to help me a lot in meeting other DJs and event managers around the city.

Did you ever feel that people viewed male and female DJs differently?

Not entirely, though it’s true that female DJs are always a point of attraction. Infact, it is still an element of surprise in this part of the world. After the initial excitement, I am met with sceptical stares. People have the misconception that technical handling is alien to female hands. Though I received much humiliation and weird comments at the start of my career as a lady music mixer, these criticisms helped fuel my growth. I find being a girl a privilege, as I am able to mix and play different songs from melodious tracks to the bold, loud and dark tracks. Also, it’s a platform to prove that you have the capability of handling such a huge crowd.

What did Nandini say about the lack of female DJs? Read this and more at www.wtzupcity.com

New to the City

Oven Pick Kaloor

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Burger King Lulu Mall

Justo Burritos Thrikkakkara

Saravana Bhavan Edappally

The Vibe Music Conservatory, Thrikkakkara

Schuco Padivattom

WtzupCity.com/FEATURE

Upgrade Your Audio Experience Check out what audio giant Bose has for you in their maiden launch in the state, at Lulu Mall

Ashwati Nambiar

M

ake a quick visit to LuLu Connect to get the all time best sound experience of the Bose speaker systems. Bose Corporation is an American company founded by Dr. Amar Gopal Bose in 1964. They have been hailed as a forerunner in the audio industry with noise cancelling headphones, professional audio systems and automobile sound systems. For the first time in Kerala, Bose will launch its collection at Lulu Connect. The showroom has an exclusive collection of the all new computer speaker systems, sound bars, bluetooth speakers, wireless headsets and earphones.

Now you can enjoy music and movies with an elevated sound experience.

Soundsport Wireless Headphones, ` 13,129 Grab this sweat and weather resistant earphones that are crafted exclusively for sports enthusiasts. Forget the troubles created by those long wires of your headphones and engage in a heavy workout, tuning to your favourite track up to 6 hours per charge.

Computer Speakers, ` 31, 388 Enjoy the home theatre like sound experience on your laptop or PC with the all new Companion 5 multimedia speaker system. The speakers having a unique and functional design for desktops with a handy control pod housing volume control, single-touch mute, headphone jack and connection for a second audio source such as an MP3 player.

QuietComfort 35 Wireless Headphones, ` 23,640 With the best noise cancellation feature, this headset offers cancellation of even the quietest of sounds with the wireless connection to your devices through Bluetooth and NFC pairing. The device also provides 20 hours of wireless listening per charge, and 40 hours when wired.

Soundlink Bluetooth Speaker III, ` 22,262 Presenting the best-performing Bluetooth speaker among their collections, the Soundlink III speaker plays music with clarity and depth. Play it upto 14 hours from rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.

The device allows personalising with the desired colored accessory covers.

Powered by

Lulu Mall, Edapally

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WtzupCity.com/FEATURE

Ten Signs of a True Kochiite If you can check off everything on this list, you are a true Kochiite, no matter where you are

Fathima Abdul Kader

1

3

Having had to explain to those from other places that Kochi, Cochin and Ernakulam is all basically the same thing.

For every non-Kochiite, what is the difference between Kochi, Cochin and Ernakulam is an unanswered question. Every Kochiite is subjected to the trouble of having to explain that all three are the same thing for all intents and purposes.

7

Become indifferent to mosquito attacks

4

Having to play host to any friends/ relatives in town for “wedding shopping” Kochi is the place to be to go shopping. But playing host and enlightening your friends and family in town for major shopping on the ‘n’ number of textiles and jewellers in the city is not that fun all the time.

8

Lulu Mall proudly takes over the blame of every traffic block.

9 Have a favourite shop of your choice at Convent Street

5

2

Love the city as a whole and not in parts A real Kochiite loves the city for more than its malls, and metro but rather for its vintage charm and takes pride in all its developments

10 Referred to Ernakulam Junction as “south” and Ernakulam Town as "north".

We all have had people from other areas wonder why we start talking about general directions as if they are actual places.

Have “living in Panampilly Nagar” as an ultimate life aspiration Panampilly Nagar is home to manicured lawns and silent sophistication. It can be said If you earned your place for living in this area, you have made it in life

6 14

Taken sides on Seemati vs.

Jayalakshmi Any Kochiite would know that picking between these two was worse than picking sides between Mammooty and Mohanlal

Mocked “freaks”, but appreciated their self-confidence Kochiites often come across guys with radical hairdos and loud outfits and we may have teased about their looks, but still appreciate the way in which they express themselves through their attire.

WtzupCity.com/FEATURE

an exciting upgrade 6 Reasons Why the Skoda Rapid Will Take You to the Next Level

FWD Media

T

he Czech automobile giant makes its presence in Kochi known with a fresh new drive. Skoda has always been known for its dependability and features. With many tempting offers from its design stable, the city favorite Skoda Rapid is set to take over the Kochi roads again.

The automatic version of the best seller is definitely a crowd puller with its exciting aesthetics and unbelievable features. So if you are looking to move up your driving experience, get up close and personal with the Skoda Rapid automatic.

Aesthetics - capture the road with the sleek and powerful design on the Rapid. The chiseled edges give it strength while the lines move gracefully across the sedan. The black headlamps give it a formidable touch and the all new black grill is a great addition. The interiors will charm you with its dual tone in Mocha and Ivory. The new Skoda Rapid is not just a car, it is a statement.

Comfort - Drive with pleasure in the new Skoda Rapid. The contoured seats with adjustable headrest, adjustable steering wheel, parktronic parking assist, engine performance and more, make sure that your drive is stress free. The climatronic air conditioning system adds to the charm.

Safety - Safety is an inherent quality for Skoda. Dual airbags, ABS, dual rate brake assist, fog lamps, engine immobiliser, anti glare rear view mirror, and even an emergency triangle makes sure that you are safe in the Skoda Rapid.

Storage - With a 460L boot space, the Rapid accommodates the entire family. Showing no discrimination between the front and rear passengers, the Skoda Rapid has generous legroom. The boot has illumination and a comfortable loading height.

and the Skoda Rapid does not disappoint.

The windows can be remotely controlled with the key and all windows have the one touch option. The rear ac vents are adjustable, and the steering adjustable feature has been applauded. The foldaway cup holders are a clever touch, keeping the car up to date with the urban crowd.

Features 1.5L TDI Engine

Engine and Transmission - Available in its diesel and petrol variant, the Rapid delivers a dynamic performance. The seven speed DSG gear box with sports mode gives 105 bhp.

It has two clutches with with electronically controlled gear selection for lightning fast gear shifts. The Skoda Rapid is also available with a six-speed Tiptronic automatic gearbox or a five-speed manual transmission for those who prefer the traditional setup.

Thoughtful Features - god is in the details,

7 Speed automatic DSG Gearbox with Sports mode Fuel efficiency 21.72kmpl Electronic stability control HIll hold control

Projector headlamps and front fog headlamps Automatic rain sensing wipers Cruise control Auto dimming inside mirror

For test drive and booking call Manikandan Skoda: 0484 280 9611

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WtzupCity.com/MOVIES

DRAMA

In conversation With the Young Talent Shebin Benson After his debut in Idukki Gold, Shebin Benson has played the younger roles of some of the best actors in Mollywood Ashwathi Nambiar

R

emember the young Maniyanpilla in Idukki Gold passing on a love letter, or the charming Ameer in Varsham.

Meet Shebin Benson, who has been winning hearts with his onscreen personas.

This visual communications student and photography aficionado has almost six films in his pockets that had him playing the childhood days of heroes in Mollywood. We had a great time chatting with this modest youngster, who shared his stories and a sophisticated view of the world.

Your entry to the film industry was through Idukki Gold. Was it by luck?

I made my debut through Aashiq Abu’s Idukki Gold when I was in twelfth standard.

It was my passion for photography and the earnest desire to meet Ajay Menon, the renowned photographer and colleague of Aashiq Abu, that pulled me all the way from my home in Nilambur to the audition centre in Kochi. There were strong rejections from my family, but I set off for Kochi to meet Ajay in the name of the audition.

But surprisingly, I became one among the shortlisted 30. I had no taste for acting and had never tried it. Somehow my awkward performance in the audition turned to be a path-breaker.

How did your family react to your decision to act?

My family is a bit conservative and strict.

I wasn’t allowed to go out on my own and do things. I decided to travel alone to Kochi for the audition, and landed in a totally unknown city.

16

Jaffer Zadique

drama

KABALI

GUPPY

Language: Tamil Cast: Rajinikanth, Radhika Apte, Winston Chao Director: Pa. Ranjith Writer: Pa. Ranjith Music: Santhosh Narayan Release Date: July 22

Language: Malayalam Cast: Tovino Thomas, Master Chethan, Sreenivasan Director: John Paul George Writer: John Paul George Music: Vishnu Vijay Release Date: July 29

romance

Epic drama

At present my parents are very happy and comfortable with me. The only thing that troubled them then was my education.

Even my teachers didn’t encourage my decision. But now, it’s only because of my parent’s support I am able to keep acting.

Did you have any fanboy moments while working in movies?

I am a hard core fan of Mohanlal, but unfortunately, I haven’t got a chance to share the screen with him. But, I was honored to work with Mammukka in Varsham. I was so tensed while working with him that I ended up shivering. But he himself came to me, gave me a hug saying “everything will be fine hereafter”. Rather than a fanboy, I relish to define myself as a student. I am still a student and all these experienced actors I get to work with, are my teachers.

Tell us something about your upcoming projects.

I have two movies to be released next month. In 10 Kalpanakal, I am the son of Anoop Menon’s character. The movie is the directorial venture of Don Max. The other is IDI, directorial debut of Sajid Yahiya with Jayasurya in the lead role. I enact the childhood of Jayasurya. It has been a really exciting experience.

Shebin Benson is not the only talent in the family. Find out more about Shebin and his life by heading to WtzupCity.com

KISMATH

MOHENJO DARO

Language: Malayalam Cast: Shane Nigam, Shruthy menon Director: Shanavas K Bavakutty Writer: Shanavas K Bavakutty Music: Sumesh Parameswar, Shamej Sreedhar Release Date: July 29

Language: Hindi Cast: Hrithik Roshan, Pooja Hedge Director: Ashutosh Gowariker Writer: Ashutosh Gowariker Music: A R Rahman Release Date: August 12

horror comedy action COMEDY

PRETHAM

IDI

Language: Malayalam Cast: Jayasurya, Sruthi Ramachandran, Aju Varghese Director: Ranjith Sankar Writer: Ranjith Sankar Music: Anand Madhusoodanan Release Date: August 12

Language: Malayalam Cast: Jayasurya, Shivada Director: Sajid Yahiya Writer: Sajid Yahiya, Arouz Irfan Music: Rahul Raj Release Date: August 12

*Release dates may be subject to change.

WtzupCity.com/TAKE 5

NEVER ENDING FUN LIKE NEVER BEFORE

WIN

Have the best of monsoon thrills at Sparky’s

T

Ashwathi Nambiar

urn on your senses and get set to take your seats in the rides for the young as well as the young at heart. Whether you are hanging out with your friends, taking the family out or maybe it's your playschool group, there is always something for everyone at Lulu Sparky's. Here is a pick of the best rides enjoyed best as a group. .All these rides require no Sparky's points Roller Coaster Tighten those seat belts of the Roller Coaster to get into a swirly, whirly ride and scream your loudest.

Drop Tower The Drop Tower that takes you up above

FWD Media

the ground just to drop you down at an unimaginable speed. Hang on as the gravity takes over!

Jamaica Try the circular wheel like motion of the Jamaica that can leave you moving like a churning wheel.

at Sparky’s!

5 lucky winners will get gift vouchers worth Rs.1000 each!

Fill in the right option and send the image with your name and phone number to +91 9809040444 wtzupcity@fwdmedia.in

Ice Skating Enjoy some crazy moments in the huge ice skating rink, the only one in Kerala.

Bowling Alley Bowl your friends over with a perfect strike at the 5 lane bowling alley. The slick alley is a perfect challenge and also hosts tournaments.

The Question: Technically, the term Monsoon is used to describe the seasonal change of Rains

Wind

Rivers

Mountains

Which is the first commercially successful video game in the world?

Answer: Pong

Winners Jeesmon, Suhaina T K, Ranjana Ganesh, Anjaly Joseph, Jain James Panicker

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WtzupCity.com/DIRECTORY

ENJOY THE FLAVORS OF KOCHI WITH WTZUP AT : Cafe & Bakery

HELPLINE NUMBERS

Cofi Club Kakkanad 0484 640 4040

Cafe Lantern Kakkanad 0484 659 3030

Chai Cofi Kaloor 0484 402 7774

Chikitos Restaurant Kakkanad 994 797 4800

Mai Zone De Cafe Near Infopark 755 991 6117

Donut House Palarivattom 0484 650 3503

Chillax Chakkaraparambu 0484 307 1236

Abad Canopy MG Road 0484 414 4405

The Burger Junction Edappally Toll & Panampally Nagar 0484 254 3393

Afters Bake House Palarivattom 860 690 5696

Hospitals Ernakulam Medical Center: 0484-2807101 Medical Trust: 0484-2358001 Lisie: 0484-2402044 Lourdes: 0484-4123456 Amrita: 0484-2801234, 2851234, 4001234 Renai Medicity: 0484-2880000

restaurants

Aster Medcity: 0484-6699999

Pai Dosa Edappally 0484 280 1778

Table 9 Kadavanthra 0484 044 0909

Nawras Chittoor Road 0484 404 4199

Costa Coffee LuLu Mall 0484 401 0525

Lokha NH Bypass 0484 403 3220

Elements Kacheripady 0484 406 6977

Food Marley Padamugal 974 573 2333

Adams Food Court Nedumbassery 484 261 0220

Kayees DH Road 0484 235 4321

Cocoa Tree Panampilly Nagar 0484 414 1241

Hotel Empire Kundannoor 0484 270 7555

Aangan Restaurant Palarivattom 0484 404 4038

Kappa Club Pallimukku 0484 300 0246

Chickitos Thrikkakara 994 797 4800

Paragon Lulu Mall 0484 401 1000

Carnival Food Court Kakkanad 0811 307 0707

Kettuvallam Opp. International Stadium Kaloor 0484 210 1063

Nalukettu Opp.Vyttila Mobility Hub 0484 404 0808

Erivum Puliyum Banerji Road 0484 402 2211

Palace Food court Opp. Cochin International Airport 0484 2610610

Mappilakkada Bypass Nr. Gold Souk 9446 822 459

Thakkaram Bypass Nr. Gold Souk 944 682 2459

Kottayam Kitchen Vyttila.

9446827374

Oottupura Nr Internatonal Airport 904 812 4986

General : 0484-2361251 KIMS: 0484-3041000 Lakeshore: 0484 270 1032 Blood Banks IMA Blood Bank: 0484-2383549 Blood Bank Services: 1910 Emergency services Police: 100 Ambulance: 102, 0484-2870784, 9961246864 Accident helpline: 1033 Fire: 101 Childline: 1098 Women: 10929 Highway Police: 9846100100 Cyber Crime Cell: 9497976004 Transport Airport: 0484-261 0115 Railway : 139, 0484-2395198

Hotels

Bus: 0484-2303434, 2306611

Harbour View NH 47, Vytilla, 0484 412 0089

Gokulam park Kaloor 0484 240 0707

Vedanda Kaloor 954 493 9996

The Dunes Opp.MG Road 0484 238 4030

Le Meridien Kundannor 0484 270 5777

Casino Willington island 0484 301 1711

Highway Garden Willington island 0484 301 1711

Crowne Plaza Kundannor 0484 286 5000

Mamma Mia Kakkanad 815 799 8333

Marriott Edappally & Nedumbassery 0484 717 7777

others

Theatres PVR: 8800900009, 0484-2727776 Q cinemas: 0484-406 6333 Cinemax: 0484-411 3222 Shenoys: 0484-2353233 Saritha, Savitha: 0484-2366183, 2394149 Sreedhar: 0484-4025226, 4025227 Kavitha: 0484-2352777 PAN Cinemas: 80897 77777

Lotus Club Warriam Road 0484 235 2456

De-Fab Boutique Panampilly Nagar 0484 319 1619

Digital Carving Studio Kadavanthara 0484 231 4333

Cucumba Manorama Junction 0484 400 0024

Glam Vyttila, Kochi 0484 395 2900

Rama Varma Club Club Rd 0484 235 2040

Taxio: 0484-4440444

Bourn Hall Clinic Opp. Shipyard 902 067 8600

Cimar Edappally 0484 413 4444

Korter Icecream Parlour Kadavanthara 994 610 7205

bCabs: 0484-4046667

A

PUBLICATION

She Taxi: 859000543 Ola: 0484-3355335

Printed & published by Jose Thomas Pattara, Muhamma, Alappuzha on behalf of Forward Media Private Limited, from Anand Buildings, NH Bypass Road, Near Oberon Mall, Cochin. The editor is Arun Balachandran. Printed at Five Star Offset Printers, Cochin-40.All photographs unless otherwise indicated, are used for illustrative purposes only. Readers are advised to cross check all data before acting on the same. For exclusive and private circulation only.

Maria John Suhas KM Sahla K Marketing Manager Assistant Editor Layout & Design

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Taxi

Pankaj PS Creative Head

Sebin Sunny Digital Coordinator

kochiology

The precursor state to Kingdom of Kochi came into existence in early 12th century.

The reign of the Kingdom was hereditary, and the family that ruled over the region was known as the Perumpadappu rulers.