VOL 1 | ISSUE 2 | OCT 12 - OCT 18, 2013
`10 ges 24 Pa
Desires to be Desirable Sonam Kapoor
Catching Up, Pg 24
PG
02
DURGA PUJA TAKING CARE OF THE URBAN ENVIRONMENT
Guwahati does The Dandiya
PG 10 PG
12 GHY Route Map During Puja
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GPLUS OCT 12 - OCT 18, 2013
Lead story
DURGA PUJA
TAKING CARE OF THE URBAN ENVIRONMENT Every Durga Puja, there arises a call for better waste management post-celebrations. With directives being issued to each organiser about eco-friendly Puja setups, does this annual festival really pose a threat to nature?
Mrinmoyee Hazarika
A
midst the gaiety and zest of the festive season, people often tend to forget to maintain the solemnity and decorum of the environment and Durga Puja is no different. So engrossed people becoming in performing and celebrating the occasion that the organisers as well as the visitors are seen to be ignoring the basic cleanliness and hygiene in and around the pandals. On the last day of Puja, which is known as Dashami, most of the Pandals leave a large amount of wastes behind at the place of celebration after taking the idols to the river for immersion. There is also a high chance of pollution of the water body as well as aquatic animals caused by the immersion of the idols. In a bid to promote environment-friendly Puja, a section of the society and the local authorities have taken up initiatives to keep the real spirit of the festival and shield Mother Nature from pollution.
The other side
One of the serious concerns of safety during Puja is the pollution of the river Brahmaputra. Since the immersion of idols of the city Puja pandals is carried out in the river, there is a chance that the river gets polluted. “Anything unnatural is pollution. There is definitely a chance of pollution of the river. The degree of pollution from the chemicals (present in the paint) used on the idols might be different. Also, the level of harm might be different for different species living in the water,” Professor, Cotton college, Ratul Rajkhowa told G plus. At the same time, he also said that the source of colour used in the idols plays an important role in this matter. “If the source of colour used n the idols is natural, then there would be no harm to the water body and the aquatic animals. But, you never know what type of colour is being used by the artisans,” Rajkhowa told. Rajkhowa also expressed concern over the lodged idols which get stuck in the riverbed after immersion and emerge when the water level goes down during the winter. “The excessive amount of water flowing during the flood is considered to be debris and if the idols get lodged in the sands of the river, then that would be a grave problem too,” Rajkhowa further mentioned. On the other hand, some others hold a totally different view. “As far as I know, the amount of chemicals being discharged from the colours of the idols is very negligible. Otherwise, the whole Brahmaputra would have been declared as one of the most polluted rivers. However, so far, that has not happened. Of course, we should try to protect it from any possible threat of pollution because even the smallest polluting element is bad for the river. At the same time I also think that industrial wastage is harming the water body as well as the aquatic animals more,” Manash Bhattacharyya of Aranyak, an environmental NGO, told G plus.
49 236 committees had eco friendly idols in the year 2012
392 370 pujas were organised in the city In the year 2011
pujas were organised In the year 2012
applications for Durga Puja had been received by the District Administration till the afternoon of 10th Oct 2013 .
SOURCE: District Administration, Kamrup (M) & Eco Tourism Society
He also stated that the river Yamuna was declared as one of the most polluted rivers in the country and such a fate should never befall the Brahmaputra.
Safety measures Whatever the degree of pollution is, there is no doubt that the river Brahmaputra and its tributaries have been facing the problems of pollution for some time now. To mitigate this problem, some conscious citizens have come forward. “Three years back, in order to create awareness on the preservation of nature among the masses and promote the concept of eco-
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GPLUS OCT 12 - OCT 18, 2013
Lead story friendly Puja or green Puja, we initiated an award called the Prakriti award. During the days of Puja, we do a four-phased survey in various Puja pandals of the city and based on the measures taken by the committees to protect the environment, we select one of them for the award,” Gautam Dutta, President, Eco tourism Society of Northeast said. Regarding the various norms required to conduct the eco-friendly Durga Puja, Dutta said that the idols must be made of Papier-mâché or clay instead of PoP (Plaster of Paris). Usage of eco-friendly colours which do not contain metallic compounds, worshipping of smaller idols for reducing the harm caused by immersion of bigger ones, immersion of idols in artificial ponds instead of river and lakes and disposing waste in dust bins before immersion instead of throwing them into the water are some of the criteria by which a Puja can performed in an eco-friendly way. Celebrating the Puja by keeping intact the real essence and traditional aspect can contribute in ensuring that the Pujas are environment-friendly. “Last year 89 Puja committees of the city registered for the award out of which 49 committees had eco friendly idols. Even, the Puja committees outside the state are showing their interest to organise their Puja in an eco-friendly way,” Dutta added.
A few guidelines from the PCB for eco friendly puja’s Idols should be made from natural materials like natural clay, bamboo, coir ropes and straw instead of baked clay, plaster of paris and synthetic ropes. Non-toxic water soluble biodegradable paints are to be used. Chemical dyes containing heavy metals like lead, cadmium, etc. or carcinogenic organics must not be done. Use of thermocol in all forms should be avoided as this material leads to exothermic self-decomposition contributing extra heat to global warming. Non-biodegradable items like plastic made plates, glasses, spoons, etc. should not be used as these do not decompose naturally and cause environmental nuisance. Cloths to be used for decorating images should be made of natural fibre like cotton, pat, silk, etc.and not synthetic fibre like nylon, tereline, etc.
Moreover, like every year, this year too, the Pollution Control Board (PCB) has outlined some directives to the district administration to control the pollution during the festival. The administration, in turn, circulated the directives among the Puja committees of the city. But, it has always been a matter of dispute whether all the Puja committees follow the directives properly. “The administration as well as other concerned authorities should monitor the Puja committees to check whether they have followed the norms to check pollution. But, unfortunately, we have not seen such inspection done by the administration,” a conscious citizen of the city rued. In the year 2011, a total num-
ber of 392 Pujas were organised in the city and the next year, in 2012 the city witnessed 370 Pujas. This year, so far the district administration has received 101 applications from various Puja committees for performing Puja and it continues to receive such applications till the beginning of the Durga Puja. Amid the fun fare, nobody should forget to keep the real essence of Durga Puja alive without hurting the environment. With a large number of Puja pandals in and around the city, the people and the administration should take stern initiatives to protect the environment from awful elements which might cause damage to the very spirit of the festival. Only keeping nature from harm can protect the human race till eternity.
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GPLUS OCT 12 - OCT 18, 2013
G-View
WOMAN Can the city hear you cry?
As Guwahati worships the Goddess of Shakti and revels in the power of feminism, in the dark corners of the city, there are muffled cries and shouts of women facing abuse. A GPlus report. rahul chanda
A
midst the Durga Puja celebrations, people worship the Hindu Goddess Durga, who is also referred to as Maa (mother), with fervour and reverence. Guwahati is also demographically blessed as it is situated below the hill where the famous temple of Maa Kamakhya is situated. People from not only India but the world over, visit Guwahati seeking Maa Kamakhya’s blessings. Crores are spent during Durga Puja to woo the almighty believing it will bring happiness, joy and prosperity in people’s life. Meanwhile, the fact remains that in the same place where the Goddess of power is worshipped, women are also abused. The latest figures of the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) have revealed that Assam topped the chart in crimes against women in 2012 with a percentage of 89.54 which is double the national average of around 41.7 per cent last year.
Crime report
A total of 2,44,270 incidents of crime against women (both under IPC and SLL) were reported in the country during the year 2012 as compared to 2,28,650 in the year 2011, recording an increase of 6.4% during the year 2012. These crimes have continuously increased during 2008-2012 with 1,95,856 cases in the year 2008, 2,03,804 cases in 2009 and 2,13,585 cases in 2010 and 2,28,650 cases in 2011 and 2,44,270 cases in the year 2012. West Bengal with 7.5% share of country’s female population has accounted for nearly 12.7% of the total crime against women by reporting 30,942 cases during the year 2012. Andhra Pradesh accounting for nearly 7.3% of the country’s female population, has accounted for 11.5% of total crimes against women in the country by reporting 28,171 cases in the year 2012.
Percentage distribution of crime against women during 2012 in India
SOURCE: NCRB
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GPLUS OCT 12 - OCT 18, 2013
G-View
The rate of crime committed against women was 41.7 in 2012. Shockingly, Assam has reported the highest rate of crime against women at 89.5 during the year 2012 as compared to 41.7 crime rate at the national level. These show that the land of Kamakhya is no more safe for women.
Rape
Recently, Guwahati was shocked by an incident where a minor girl was gang-raped by five boys in the city. All the accused aged between 12 to 16 years are said to be the victim’s neighbours. The incident happened when the girl was playing with the accused, following which she was drugged and taken to a nearby house where she was allegedly raped. This is not the end - a primary school teacher’s rape in the state also rocked the entire state. It has added up to the fact that Assam has not done enough to protect the women of this state. Various organisations are demanding stringent laws to combat social crimes like rape and molestation. The Guwahati G.S. Road molestation case is an incident, which earned infamy for the state. Worried over the spurt in cases of crimes against women in the state, the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) slammed the state government and the police for their failure to curb the crimes. Demanding the strictest possible punishment for those convicted in rape cases, the student body said that only a stringent law can bar such crimes.
Eve teasing
A college student Nita Nath feels that she is not at all secured in Guwahati. She said, “I hardly go out alone and when I do, I make sure that I return before sunset. There are guys who leer at me and you can easily feel them ogling. Sometimes the guys gather near the shops and taunt me but because of various reasons, I do not report to police. I feel bad to discuss these issues with my parents too.” A 22-year-old woman who doesn’t want to be named said, “During Durga Puja, we are not allowed to go out alone like the guys do with their friends. We have to go with our parents and if we go with our friends, it usually has to be in the morning hours. The reason is very simple that in the evenings guys get drunk and tease us. Our parents know it and they are scared for our safety and security. The Puja may be an event to worship Maa Durga, but for many guys it is a time to get drunk, check out girls and misbehave. I can just say that we are not safe.” The reluctance to report to the
Incidence and rate of crime committed against women in Assam during 2011
11503
th 311.7 Lac 7 5.0%
contribution to India
population
Incidence
rank as percentage share
Incidence of crimes committed against women during 2011 in assam Crime
Incident
Rate of crime
Percentage share
Rape (Sec. 376 IPC)
1700
5.5
7.0
Kidnapping & Abduction(Sec.363-369,371-373IPC)
3192
10.2
9.0
Dowry Deaths (Sec.304B IPC)
121
0.4
1.4
Cruelty by husband and relatives
5246
16.8
5.3
Molestation (Sec.354 IPC)
1193
3.8
2.8
Sexual Harassment (Eve-Teasing)(Sec.509 IPC)
8
0.0
0.1
Importation of girls (Sec.366B IPC)
2
0.0
2.5
Immoral Traffic (P) Act, 1956
21
0.1
0.9
Indecent representation of women (P) Act, 1986
1
0.0
0.2
Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961
19
0.1
0.3 SOURCE: NCRB
Total crime against women cases registered across India in 2012
2,44,270 police stems from the social inhibitions - “I understand that we can always go to the police, but frankly speaking the cultural taboo of our society is yet to be removed. Girls are not respected if they are not simple... Simple girls do not go to cops. They are expected to be at home. I don’t know about others, but my parents have these beliefs,” she expressed.
Sex workers
Guwahati does not have any legal red light area, but there are women who are involved in prostitution. There is a big racket of sex workers who usually loiter around Paltan Bazar. An army soldier who was staying in an army transit camp said in anonymity, “I met a female near the Bajaj showroom in Paltan Bazar who came and asked me if I needed anything from her. She asked for Rs 1000 an hour for her ‘services.’ Once we went ahead under some conditions, she asked me for the money. I gave her Rs 800. Later on, I became hesitant and wanted to cancel the deal but she refused to return the money.” A local paan shop owner in Pal-
Total crime against women cases registered across India in 2011
2,28,650
Percentage increase
6.4%
State which reported the highest crime against women in 2012
Assam (89.5%)
tan Bazar, Sanjeev said, “There are a few women who come here every day and wait for prospective clients. It is a big racket and we are scared to interfere.”
Helping hand
There are many NGOs who are working for women empowerment. State member of Society for Social Transformation and Environment Protection (SSTEP), Baijayanti Kalita said that their organisation is working for women’s rights since 2000. She said, “We work in the urban slums and villages where women are mostly affected by various crimes. So, we make sure that they get all their rights from the government and the society as a whole. I have personally worked with many organisations to curb crimes against women. I feel the
level of sensitisation is not enough for the women here and therefore they get exploited. I feel everyone should try and help the women to be aware about their rights and the legal help which they can take in case of any crime.” Festivals like Durga Puja and Kaali Puja comes and go but do they really know how to respect a woman? Will there be an end to the crimes against women in Guwahati? Will women ever feel secure enough to roam around freely without any fear?
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City
VOX POP
Sharodiya Durga Puja
Noise Pollution during Puja
F
estivals bring along with them a feeling of enjoyment and Durga Puja is no different. The people find various ways to enjoy this festive season but in this joyous environment, we tend to forget to think about the surroundings occasionally. The blaring loudspeakers, jarring songs that keep on playing incessantly create noise pollution and disturb those who might not be in a festive mood at unearthly hours. Gone are the days when Puja Mandaps used to echo only dhakis. Now-a-days along with such music, every Puja tries to attract people by putting up fairs and music with booming basses which in turn disturb the surroundings. Is the true meaning of Durga Puja getting lost? Are the noises around it drowning the calling of the Goddess?
Brajen Kalita, Student
Music is an integral part of festivals and its sound is a welcome change from the daily humdrum of life. It is a mark of festivity and enjoyment. Even though it is a disturbance at night, it is bearable as it is just for a few days in the name of Durga Puja.
Paban Kumar Das, Businessman
times. Loud music from the pandals has started creating a lot of noise in recent inside residing those but problem this face not do suburbs People living in the year. the city where most of the Pujas are held, are facing this problem every it but evening till fine are speakers loud During the festive season, playing nights. late till allowed be should not
Bikash Sarma, Businessman
During Puja, loud music in the day is bearable up to a limit. But sometim es it goes out of control during the nights. Another thing that I do not like is the playing of crass Hindi songs at functions in the event of a spiritua l occasion like Durga Puja which is totally uncalled for and unethica l.
Bedanta Apurba, Photographer
Noise pollution during Puja is surely a problem and it has only been increasing every year. Rather than playing the bollywood numbers, one should concentrate more on playing the Gayatri mantras, which would spread the message of peace in the society. Singing and dancing on hindi songs till late nights during the festive season is completely opposite of what it should be.
College) Himanku Sarma, Faculty (LCBgets very loud and nobody
Noise pollution is at an all time high as the music ’ at high decibels feels seems to mellow down even a bit. Listening to the ‘slokas nt noise made by incessa the But well. good and the surroundings get purified as panda ls from some in songs Hindi the g playin larly loud speakers while particu an acute being e outcom the sunrise to sundown do not have any logical reason, it. with go to ne migrai a and large at shortage of electricity for the people
D
urga Puja is an important sociocultural, annual, religious festival observed by the Hindus from ancient times, by worshipping Goddess ‘Durga’ and celebrating her victory over the mythological demon named ‘Mahisasura’. According to Hindu mythology, ‘Mahisasura’ was an ‘Asura’ as his father Rambha was king of the asuras. Rambha once fell in love with a water buffalo (Princess Shyamala, cursed to be a buffalo) and Mahisaura was born out of this union. Therefore, he was able to change between human and buffalo form at will. ‘Mahisha’ is Sanskrit word for buffalo. Mahisasura had earned the blessings of Lord Shiva as he was blessed that no man or deity would be able to kill him except for a woman. Mahisasura was much pleased with this boon as he thought that a woman could never defeat him and hence started his reign of terror. Mahisasura, when saw the divine beauty of Goddess Durga, got so mesmerised and enchanted by her beauty, he forwarded the proposal to marry her. Goddess Durga agreed but on one condition that he would have to defeat her in a combat. Hindu scriptures depict Goddess Durga as a warrior goddess carrying different weapons in her ten arms and riding a lion. The fierce combat with Mahisasura continued for 9 days and nights. Mahisasura took different forms to kill Goddess Durga but failed. At the end of the ninth night, Goddess Durga killed Mahisasura and the tenth day brought about the triumph of good over evil. The appearance of Goddess Durga is also interpreted as an embodiment of feminine power in Indian culture and society. Durga Puja is celebrated for five days, namely - Shashthi, Maha Saptami, Maha Astami, Maha Navami and Bijoya Dasami or Dussera. On the day of Shashthi, Goddess Durga arrives to the mortal world from heavenly abode, accompanied by her children. Saptami, is the first day of Durga Puja. On the day of Astami, thousands of devotees throng to the famous temples of Guwahati, ‘Kamakhya’ and ‘Ugratara’. Navami is the concluding day of Durga Puja and Navami Puja begins after the end of Sandhi Puja. Bijoya Dasami is the farewell day of the Goddess. Hindus celebrate this festival as ‘Sharodiya Durga Puja’ or ‘Sarot Utsav’ which means ‘Autumn Festival’. Bengalis and Assamese celebrate this festival with great excitement and fan-fare. ‘Anjali’ or floral offerings to the goddess starts in the morning and the ‘Aarti’ or the evening Puja starts after dusk. Devotees throng the pandals to offer prayers and get blessings. As the festive season starts, markets are extravagantly embellished and Puja pandals are decorated with the most creative ideas. Mouth watering cuisines and jalebis are integral part of the celebration.
CITIZEN JOURNALIST Kristina Dowerah,
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GPLUS OCT 12 - OCT 18, 2013
Business
CITY 4-WHEELER SALES GO UP AMIDST FALLING ECONOMY The entire country might be reeling from an economic slowdown and a falling rupee, but there seems to be no let off in car sales in Guwahati. KOUSHIK HAZARIKA
A
s it happens during the festive season, the automobile industry saw a rise in its sales in Guwahati. During a year when the sales figures were not a happy sight for the manufacturers, a breather came in when, after a continuous streak of decline, domestic passenger car sales grew by 15.37 per cent to 1,33,486 units in August this year, compared to 1,15,705 units in the same month last year. The scene was almost the same in Guwahati as well with the sales going up even higher due to Durga Puja and the festival season as a whole. The usual suspects Maruti, Hyundai and Tata Motors led the way with Ford too creating ripples with its EcoSport and with a handful of awards, Renault’s Duster continued with its steady bookings. Pre-Puja, both Maruti and Hyundai launched two new hatchbacks, the Stingray and Grand i10 respectively which provided the momentum to kickstart their festive season.
RECORD BREAKERS
As per a Maruti insider, in the North East, the company has seen a record-breaking 60% plus increase in sales in September 2013 over last year. The pre Puja Sales were also very encouraging and customers
HOT PICKS Stingray Grand i10 Safari Storme EcoSport Duster
had started visiting the showrooms much before. The company delivered approximately 250 vehicles sales in the first eight days of October 2013 this figure would stand somewhere in the 850 mark for the entire Northeast. Hyundai too has seen a rise of around 15-20% increase in sales during this period compared to last year and is expecting the trend to sustain till the end of this month. Although 2013 has been a tough year for all, officials at Hyundai feel the sentiments have since changed to a more positive mood and they are expecting good sales due to the increase in demand
of their models. On the other hand, sources at Tata Motors , who has also seen an increase of around 20% in sales, say that this increase has been lesser than last year’s increase of 25-30%
FESTIVE SPREE
Usually more than any other time of the year, the sales during Durga Puja are the highest when compared to all other festivals. Even in Guwahati and Assam, the Bihu sales also pale in comparision to those of Durga Puja and this holds true for all the Manufactures. The festive season has also helped to break the dreary 9-month streak of low sales for the manufactures and it could not have come at a more appropriate time for the manufacturers. It is also interesting that in spite of this slowdown in the industry, for Maruti, the markets in the Northeast and east, in general, had not been too affected by the industry lag and September 2013 saw a good increase in sales.
20%
Increase for Hyundai during Festive season
stable, it is currently enjoying maximum focus in terms of priority. Maruti too has seen a surge in models like the Alto 800, Alto K10, Swift, Dzire and Wagon R. Their new
has recently done pretty well along with the new Safari Storme and Indigo ECS. So far, the manufacturers seem pretty upbeat about the recent upturn in sales and are
PUSHING IT
While the markets say that it is the buyers, who dictate the demand and supply of the models, the manufacturers have tried to push some specific models of their own too. Hyundai has been focusing on all models as such and the demand for Eon, i10, i20 and Verna is high. Their recently launched Grand i10 is receiving very good response and has bagged numerous bookings since its launch. The demand for the model is higher than the supply and as a new car from the Hyundai
250
Marutis sold in the first 8 days of October
launch Stingray too is doing well. The company is also eager to make better in-roads into the very potent rural markets of the Northeast where there are a number of first time buyers. For Tata Motors, the Nano 2013
anticipating the next few months to be better than the first part of the year. If the overall economy now changes for the better, then the industry might just find itself running to fulfil consumer demands again.
FIAT INAUGURATES EXCLUSIVE SHOWROOM Fiat group automobiles India private limited, an Italian automobile company, on Wednesday, 9th October inaugurated its exclusive dealership in Guwahati. Mr. Ravi Bhatia, Vice President (Sales and Network), FIAT Group India Automobiles has inaugurated the dealer. The dealership has been started in association with a local motor chain Green valley motors. Inaugurating the showroom, Mr Bhatia said, “Fiat India has viewed Guwahati as a very strategic market and the inauguration of an exclusive dealership is in accordance with our strategy to capitalise on this potential” The automobile group has launched 80 exclusive dealerships across the country and is aiming at inaugurating 100 new dealerships by the end of this year.
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GPLUS OCT 12 - OCT 18, 2013
Special
AT
UT GARGEE BARUAH
“All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.”- Charles M. Schulz
W
hen beauty is in abundance this festive season with Durga Devi’s ‘agaman,’ the city is all zealous. Its people are all ready to get decked up and welcome the goddess with grandeur. However, it is not just the clothes, the glitz and the glam that matters during Puja. Most of us love to go out and treat our taste buds well too and so, G Plus brings you a sneak- peek of some of hottest food hubs in town. You might have already been to some of them, but as for the others, make sure you check out these gastronomic heavens!
Terra Mayaa
This houses a lounge as well as a restaurant and is a must visit for people who want to experience an exquisite ambience. The interior of the restaurant has a middle-eastern influence and the Moroccan music is a treat to the ears. One can only sink in the feeling of beautiful bellydancing to it. The lounge is a hotspot for the city’s gigs and other happening events. The menu has Continental, North Indian, Chinese, Italian delicacies and whatever else the Greek God Bacchus would have liked to drink!
TIP
If you’re poetic and lost, the restaurant is a refuge to your wandering mind. If you’re still lost and poetic and had too much of a calm, jazz it up to the music at the lounge!
Address: 6th Floor, Anil Plaza 2, Christian Basti, Ganeshguri, Guwahati 781005, PHONE: +91 7399013444
Shanghai Salsa
Welcome to the lip- smacking, irresistible haven of cuisines. This one is sure to take you on a trip. Don’t believe us? Just let the heavenly delights of desserts and the ample options of multiple cuisines entertain your brain cells and make your stomach go restless until the platter is served. If you’re an indecisive person, it will only make you ‘odhik maas’ot bogoli kona’. They have a diverse range of food items with cuisines such as Thai, American, Asian Fusion, Caribbean, Cuban, German and Mediterranean. It’s worth a visit since it’ll make you feel no less than being on a world tour on food. As they like to put it, “Shanghai Salsa is the culmination of energies of three people an artist (Samujjal), a chef (Seemanta) and a traveller (Samudra)”. Durga Puja delight: Buffet dinner at Rs.549 on Saptami, Ashtami and Navami.
Address: House no.37, 1st floor, near RBI colony, Hatigarh Chariali, Mother Teresa Road, Guwahati 781024 Phone no. 0361 2131123
TIP
Guys, any Plain Jane to Cat Woman would be impressed if you treat her like a queen! Girls, spend that extra little saving to lift your mood by treating yourself.
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GPLUS OCT 12 - OCT 18, 2013
Special
Emperor China
In the name of Chinese food, hail ‘Emperor China’. Set in the city’s hub at Spanish Garden, this restaurant is exotic with its beautiful interiors adding a classy touch to it. It’s a good pick for a family get- together as well and no, not to be ignored as just another Chinese restaurant! The Buddha statues only make it appear more serene and you will never regret the food! Chinese cuisine lovers, you can never ask for more when seafood, lamb, dimsums, pork all come under one roof. The starters menu has some really mouth-watering delicacies like konjee crispy lamb, double cooked lamb, prawn hunan style, golden fried prawn, diced chicken black pepper etc. From soups to starters to main course to desserts, you will find yourself afloat on a sea of variety.
TIP
Want to beat the workaholic blues? This is your destination! Address: 1st floor, Spanish Garden, opposite Assam State Zoo, Guwahati 781005 Phone no. +91 88228 88222
JB’s
Non- vegetarians too would hop in to JB’s in order to treasure its food. Another popular spot serving sweets and snacks and most Guwahatians’ favourite! The added advantage is that vegetarian food items like dosa, vada, chole bhature etc. is available at reasonably low price. This place is not an unknown spot and therefore, ask anyone in person and pat comes the reviews for this spot.
Kiranshree Sweets and Confectionaries
A vegan’s delight! Durga Puja is unthinkable without ‘garam jalebis’ and Kiranshree is a popular destination for sweets and snacks. To relish some amazing sweets and snacks, do not hesitate to walk that extra mile because, it’s worth it!
TIP
TIP
You don’t need any, Mata loves you. The angel with the halo says so.
If you’re ready to challenge yourself to keep at bay from non-vegetarian food this navratra, JB’s awaits you. Who knows, you might turn vegan this October! 1) Near Planetarium, Rajbhavan Road, Uzan Bazar, Guwahati 781001 Phone no. 9435015459 2) M.G Road, Fancy Bazar, Guwahati 781001 Phone no. 9864030579, 9435281030 3) G.S. Road, Christian Basti, Guwahati 781005 Phone no. 9435041574
Address: Near Shanti Sabha Mandir, S C Road, Athgaon Guwahati 781009, Phone no. 9207001717, 9207075005
Brown Bean Café
A date, meeting with a client, chilling out with friends, spending time with a book alone, dining with family, this place fits in all. It’s a café cum restaurant and once you go there, you tend to familiarize with it. There is a bunch of books showcased in the café making your coffee a perfect cuppa for rejuvenation. Tuna Sandwich and Chocolate Float is a must! The restaurant has introduced seafood as well. Far from the crowd, this place is a popular chill-out spot for college-goers. And, that’s not all. The interior surely lifts your mood adorned with those ethnic and exotic wall-hangings, the glass table showcasing coffee beans, and various other spices, large tea-pots etc. Lying back lazily in the couch with your favourite book and an aromatic brew, what more could you care for?
TIP
Want to get high without booze? Just sip in some shake here adding your favourite flavour and whoa, you’ve got wings! Sorry lameness. Address: H.C Road, Uzan Bazar Guwahati 781001
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GPLUS OCT 12 - OCT 18, 2013
Society
Guwahati does The Dandiya
GARGEE BARUAH
W
ith the pomp and splendour that Durga Puja brings, there is no end to the celebrations in Guwahati. Dandiya nights organised by the Lions’ Club and Rotract Club every year, attract a crowd of young and old alike to dance to their favourite bollywood numbers. Dandiya is a popular folk- dance form, usually preformed during Navratri along with Garba in Gujarat. It is the traditional folk- dance form of Vrindavan used to depict Sri Krishna’s ‘lila’. It has found its way into the hearts of the people of Assam.
a Glimpse
While the city waits to be drenched in the bliss and blessings of Maa Durga, there is fun and frolic in the air with the events like Dandiya Night. “The event saw more of the Marwari crowd last year. However, this year, there is a good number of participation from the Assamese people as well,” Manish Agrawal and Pawan Sharma (Rotaract Club, Midtown) coorganisers of the Dandiya Night, told G Plus. The organisers invite television stars every year to grace the occasion and to elevate the standard of the event. The celebrities are the eye- candies and people storm the dandiya nights to catch a glimpse of them. The DJs play the remixed versions of the popular folk or Hindi movie songs. Lion’s Club of Guwahati has been organising Dandiya Night for the last twelve years. This year the celebrity guests are Siddharth Shukla from ‘Balika Badhu’ fame and Sana from ‘Jhalak Dikhla Ja’, who was also the little Anjali in ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’. Chang, whose first step to stardom was Indian Idol and went on to host a couple of reality shows, Award shows, also acted in films like ‘Badmaash Company’ has also been invited. Earlier, Akshara from the Star Plus serial ‘Ye Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai’, RK from Colors’ ‘Madhubala’, Rajeev Khandelwal ‘Sujal’ From ‘Kahiin Toh Hoga’ fame, Veer from ‘Uttaran’ have been among the guest celebrities. The organisers aim to invite the ‘present’ popular stars of television keeping in mind the audiences’ demand. The Dandiya night organised by Lion’s Club is happening at Sonaram Field, Bharalumukh from
10th to 14th October, from 7 PM to 10PM. Mr. Vikash Agrawal (Lion’s Club of Guwahati City, co- President) told G Plus that every year the event sees a minimum of a thousand people and Lion’s Club Guwahati expects people from all castes, class and communities. He also talks about how they are contributing to society with the funds by organising health camps. When he was asked if there is any competition from other clubs, Agrawal said, “Lion’s Club’s Dandiya Night is the grandest of all.” When there are so many miscreants all around, carrying out nefarious activities and the common people are always under threat, Dandiya Raas serves as a means to beat the blues and get into a festive mode. Such an event serves as a way of national integration where people, despite being from different classes, castes and religions come together to dance their hearts out. Dandiya Raas in Guwahati is therefore, an addition to the glitz and glam quotient. “The knocking clicks of wooden sticks, and those thumps of the drum beats, blended with those perfect dancing feet. That’s the glory of dandiya nights for me.”- says Gaurav Barman, lyricist of a band ‘Assassin’s Fist’ in Guwahati.
the flip-side
While people are accepting and embracing this West-Indian concept, there are people who criticise it as well. “Assam, right from the ages, has been at a distance and extremely diverse from the mainstream Indian Culture. Its culture has more affinity to the Southeast Asian countries rather than India. For ages, the indigenous Assamese people have been celebrating Durga Puja, but in recent years, we see a bit of its share getting hijacked by a very intense West-Indian Culture by way of Dandiya Nights. It’s not even in its indigenous form. Glitters and indecent Bollywood numbers, have diluted the existing culture. The single largest reason for it is the rapidly changing demography; the huge flow and growth of migrants from the other parts of the country. Indigenous culture has become vulnerable as it is getting influenced easily.”- Abhinab Das, an M.Com student of the Guwahati
“
We have been organising this project since last 10 to 14 years and this year too, the event will be held at the Sonaram field. We are expecting a crowd of 12 to 1500 each day from 10th to 14th October. We are calling celebrities like Sidharth Shukla, Chang etc. This festival is celebrated all over the world and we organise such events so that people along with their families can come and enjoy.” Pawan Agarwal
Lion’s Club Dandiya Organising Committee Chairman
Commerce College told G Plus. “It’s good to see new festivities getting accommodated during these times. But having said that, I would not like to see our Assamese youths getting carried away by this new wave and veer away from their own cultures and traditions,” Nipan Talukdar, an NIT Silchar student, told G Plus. There are also others take a balanced stand. “I think that’s just a way to garner publicity and money. I mean Guwahati is still not ready for a party of that sort. Of course, for the non- Assamese people, it’s a great way to make them feel a part of our state. But, I don’t think that’s what the organisers aim for.”Bhaswati Bora, an M.A Psychology Honours student of Delhi University said. “I would say I am not much in favour of such trends. Why do we need Gujarati culture when we have a rich heritage of our own? Puja these days has become more about showbiz, rather than devotion,” Kantadorshi Parashar, another stu-
dent expressed. Media person and actor Raj Agnihotri said, “It has always been a good initiative but, it has come to my notice that besides all the good things and people who go there to celebrate, there are some (guys) who do not behave well or with girls.”
as We Like It
Although there is the issue of preserving our own Assamese culture, festivities like Dandiya Raas contribute to cultural assimilation. It allows people from different cultural backgrounds to collectively participate in the celebrations of Durga Puja. Any festival should just be an excuse to cement the breaking bonds between cultural and social differences whatsoever. If the East has embraced West and viceversa globally, in India too, people should let go off the differences and celebrate each other’s culture. However, it is equally important to acknowledge our own culture and its traditions and preserve it.
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GPLUS OCT 12 - OCT 18, 2013
Space
THE BUILDING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM PRATIK DHAR
What is BMS? Energy prices are rising every day as we have more technological choices than ever before. With the green building norms that are gradually gaining prominence, energy efficient and comprehensive security services have become the crucial need of the hour to create buildings that delivers high and unprecedented performance.
BMS ‘Its Functionalities’
The main function of a building management system (BMS) is to manage the building environment effectively. BMS and its functions mainly include controlling, monitoring, and optimising the building’s facilities including the mechanical and electrical equipments for convenience and efficiency. BMS system provides a range of features that ensures a watch on the buildings and their devices and systems. Globalisation at its rapid pace has constantly demanded for these necessary features designed to ensure energy efficiency and cost effectiveness. Also as a core function, BMS systems controls the heating and cooling, manages the systems that distribute the air throughout the building by operating the fans and the silencers or dampers and achieving the desired room temperature. The system is sometimes also responsible for monitoring the level of humangenerated carbon dioxide (CO2), mixing in outside air with waste air to increase the amount of oxygen.
BMS Facilities Electric power control HVAC system Security and surveillance Fire alarm system Access control Lifts and elevators Engineering service and many more
The Need
BMS Benifits
All buildings have to comply with some norms to provide a convenient working environment and these services have to be regulated thoroughly to ensure that there are adequate facilities resulting in sufficient quality of operational output. The intention of a Building Management System (BMS) is to automate and take control of these services in the most efficient way possible for the occupiers, within the restraints of the installed plant. Buildings account for 40% of the world’s energy usage and thus we need BMS to reduce operational and energy costs and implement proper decisions to achieve energy efficient solutions.
history engine and easy informing. It also provides features that alert about any unexpected activity if detected. Alerts are sent by emails, text messages and by making phone calls. It can also take appropriate actions on occurrence of emergency conditions by turning on the sprinkler system in case of fire detection and turning on the alarm to alert security agency in case of irregular and suspicious movements. Most of the devices in the BMS solutions use wireless communication system to ensure that the counter action is quick, fast and hassle free.
Solution
• • • • • •
In an attempt to create high performance buildings, first we must have a complete and genuine view of a building and how it functions. With such an approach not only the HVAC, electric power control, engineering service can be better managed, but also security and safety of the building can be checked. Access control can be linked where automated door control is installed together with biometric access points. BMS aims to focus on providing an information platform that excels in strong visualisation, alarm system, sturdy
Advantages
• • • • • • •
Improved data gathering and analysis Easy to use interface Improved indoor environment Stable and reliable system Increased productivity Centralized control Low operating cost
Benefits for the Proprietor
In terms of a building or any other premises that are rented out having building management system installed• Higher rent can be charged. • Maintenance cost is reduced. • The safety & security of the employees & valuable belongings are ensured. • Improved access control, combined with better monitoring and early detection of threats or problems.
Helps in optimising energy conservation System is scalable and customisable Provide centralised control and visibility Building Management Systems cater to both small and large needs. Highly compatible, extensible and powered by strong backup facilities. Building Management Systems provides integrated and robust building management technology
BMS Feature • • • • •
To prevent unauthorised use. Provides multiple user interfaces for convenience. Guiding the operator to take appropriate action through audible and visual indications, email, text messages. Provide remote access to the system with full functionality through local area network, dial-up or internet via web browser. Through BMS, gathering & storage of data from the field equipment can be done for later analysis.
Maligoan Rest Camp Chariali
Dihing Lake
Latasil Dighalipukhuri Guwahati Chandmari Club point Railway Silpukhuri Flyover Bamunimaidan Silpukhuri Colony Mani Ram Dewan Rd
Ambari Tiniali
GMCH
Udalbakra
Birubari
ad
Zoo Road
B
d aR
Basistha
Beltola Tiniali
Six Mile
d
th asis
Last Gate oa S.R G.
Hatigaon
R.P.Road
Ganesh Mandir Kahilipara
Ganeshguri
o S.R G.
Lokhra
Colony Bazaar
Cycle Factory
Birubari
d ad
VIP Road o S.R G.
Puja Pandals
National Highway
City Roads
Railway Track
Police Station
Khanapara
Panjabari Rd
Guwahati Route Map During Puja
Gorchuk
Dhirenpara
Guwahati
Fancy Bazaar
Paltan Bazaar Nehru Stadium Gariamath Vishal Mega Zoo Tiniali Machkhowa Mart Nepali Rajgarh Hatigarh Chariali Chatribari Mandir Ulubari South Road Bharalumukh Flyover Kumarpara Sarania Police Station Chabi Pool Panchali Sarabhatti Ramakrishna A.T.Road Mission,Birubari Flyover Bharalumukh Slulce Gate Bishupur Bharalupool Fatasil Bridge Bridge Bhangagarh
Brahmaputra River
Pani Tanki Nakata Pukhuri Lakhtokia Flyover
oad Zoo R
Jalukbari
Guwahati University
Pandhu
Hill Top IIT Guwahati
d
aR Bor
Ro a VI P
Bolo
12 GPLUS OCT 12 - OCT 18, 2013
Info
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GPLUS OCT 12 - OCT 18, 2013
Info
TRAFFIC ROUTES from 10th to 14th of October NO ENTRY: 2 PM TO 3 AM llDispur: Dr. RP Road will be one way only from Ganesh Mandir side. From Zoo Road side to Ganesh Mandir. Service road from Whole Sale market side to Ganeshguri Wholesale market Road towards Ganesh Mandir (one-way). llPaltanbazar: At AK Azad Road from Nepali Mandir side towards Sarabbhati. llPanbazar: At MS Road from Sani Mandir side. At Dr. JC Das Road from Khubchand point llJalukbari: From Maligaon Chariali to Pandu. At P.N.G.B. Road between Maligaon Chariali and Kamakhya Railway Station level crossing. llBharalumukh: Towards RK Choudhury Road and SC Road from Kumarpara Pachali, Fatasil Ambari. llBasistha: Beltola Joyanagar Road from Joyanagar Chariali to Beltola Chariali. Joyanagar Beltola Chariali Road shall be one way from Beltola Chariali side. Bhetapara Chariali–Beltola Chariali Road will be one way from Beltola Chariali side From Bhetapara Chariali towards Beltola Chariali. At Dr. B.N. Saikia Road from Beltola Chariali upto AG Office bye-lane. AG Office bye-lane will be one way from AG Office side. No vehicles will be allowed to enter from Beltola Joyanagar side llChandmari and Geetanagar: From Anuradha Point to Hatigarh Chariali.
ENTRY: llDispur: Vehicles are to move via Service Road, G.S. Road and Supermarket Point. llPaltanbazar: From Sarabbhati only llPanbazar: From Railway Gate No - 4 only From Tribeni Sweets only (JC Das Road – Danish Road)
llJalukbari: From Adabari Tiniali only All vehicles from Kamakhya Railway Station and Gotanagar area shall be allowed to move through Railway Gate No. 3 and Railway Hqtrs llChanmari and Geetanagar: Vehicles will be allowed to enter from Hatigarh Chariali only
CITY BUS ROUTE: llRoute No. 1 - From Basistha Mandir to ISBT via Zoo Road llRoute No. 8 - From Panjabari to Ayurvedic College via Zoo Road llRoute No. 10 (A) - From Adabari to ISBT via Fatasil, Dhirenpara llRoute No. 13 - From Adabari to ISBT via Jyotikuchi, Lokhara llRoute No. 23- From Bywrnihat to Adabari via Zoo Road llRoute No. 27 - From ISBT to ISBT via Beltola, Paltanbazar and Jalukbari llRoute No. 30 - From Adabari to ISBT via Zoo Road llRoute No. 32 - From ISBT to Adabari via Beltola, Paltanbazar llRoute No. 16 - From Adabari to Adabari via Gotanagar All city buses coming from Bhangagarh shall be regulated at Bharalu bridge on G.S. road and diverted via ASEB Road and B.K. Kakoti Road towards destination depending upon the volume and density of vehicles on the road.
ROUTE FOR LIGHT COMMERCIAL PASSENGER VEHICLES VIZ. TATA SPECIO, TREKKER, CRUISER AND SAVARI ETC: llLight commercial passenger vehicles, particularly, having all Assam Tourist Permit coming from Lower Assam side will be terminated at Adabari bus terminus during the days of the puja. Similarly, vehicles coming from Upper Assam side will be allowed to come upto the ISBT. llAll other light passenger vehicles of above category plying within and outskirts of the City will be restricted and will be directed as
per the traffic situation at the particular time. llTrekker or Tempo vehicles coming from Lokhara to Nepali Mandir will be terminated at Sarabbhati; from there these vehicles will go back to Lalganesh, Lokhara via Chabipul – Bishnupur – ITI Road – Cycle Factory.
RESTRICTION ON SLOW MOVING VEHICLES: from 2.00 PM (14.00 hours) to 2.00AM (02.00 hours) llOn G.S. Road – from Sixmile point to Paltanbazar P.S. point. llOn R. P. Road – from Ganeshguri via Gamesh Mandir to Last Gate. llOn Sixty Feet Road – from Supermarket to Last gate. llOn A. T. Road – from Paltanbazar point to Athgaon flyover. llOn M.G. Road – from Planetarium point to Bharalumukh point. llOn D. G. Road – from Bharalumukh to Jalukbari roundabout. llOn M.L.N. Road – from Over bridge, North Point to Police Memorial Point (MG Road). llOn H. B. Road – from N. B. Hall to T. R. Phukan road crossing. llOn G. N. B. Road – from RBI point to Chandmari traffic point. llOn A. K. Azad Road – from Nepali Mandir and to Birubari Tiniali. llOn Md. Shah Road – from Janata Hotel point to Gadhuli Bazar point of Paltanbazar. llOn M. R. D. Road – from Chandmari fly-over to Bamunimaidam. llOn RG Baruah Road – from Commerce College point to State Zoo. llOn N.S. Road – from Bharalu point to Chabipool. llOn AK Deb Road – from Ambari Tiniali to Fatasil Tiniali. llRajgarh Road – from Commerce College point via link road – Rajgarh Road upto Bharalu bridge (Bhangagarh).
(13.00 hours–04.00 hours - next day) from llJalukbari llGarchuk llLokhara llBeltola llHatigaon llChandmari side
GOODS CARRYING HEAVY TRUCKS: Entry inside the city from 4.00AM (04.00 hours) onwards (subject to No obstruction on the road due to puja) up to 07.00AM (07.00 hours) in the morning. Trucks: entry time from 3.00 am to 12.00 noon (03.00 hours to 12.00 hours) Coming to and from the BG Yard llNoonmati llF.C.I. Godowns llNew Guwahati via llSixmile llJoyanagar llKhanapara llExpress Highway and viz. a viz
PARKING OF VEHICLES: ll Road side parking shall be strictly prohibited on the MG Road, B. Baruah Road, GNB Road, Tayabullah Road and on the stretch of GS Road from Lachitnagar Point to Janata Hotel Point. ll On other roads, parking on the road side will be allowed if such parking does not hamper the flow of traffic. ll Both-side parking on any of the roads and at or near intersections shall not be allowed in any case. ll Parking of vehicles shall not be allowed on A.T. Road (Athgaon flyover to Bharalumukh) and Dinesh Goswami Road (Between Bharalumukh to Shantipur). ll Parking of vehicles shall be allowed between Joyanagar and Khanapara on Beltola – Khanapara Road
GOODS CARRYING VEHICLES: No entry inside the city 1:00PM to 4.00AM
TRAFFIC PLAN FOR IMMERSION (ON THE DAY OF DASHAMI) Restrictions shall be imposed from 10.00 AM on 14.10.2013 and shall remain in force till completion of Immersion llNo idol carrying vehicles shall be allowed to move on B. Barooah Road from Ulubari to T.C. Point and G.N.B. Road, from T.C. Point to R.B.I. Point. llAll vehicles, except idol carrying vehicles, coming from Chandmari side to Jalukbari side shall not be allowed to enter M.C road and instead shall be diverted via G.N.B. Road, T.C Point and R.B.I. Point to Panbazar over bridge North point. The vehicles shall then take left turn and proceed to A.T. Road for respective destinations. llThe idol carrying vehicles moving from Bharalumukh and Fatasil areas are to move via A.T. Road and D.G. Road towards Pandu. llNo vehicles except idol carrying vehicles shall be allowed to take right turn at District Library point from G.N.B. Road to K.L.B. Road. llAll vehicles coming from Jalukbari, Bharalumukh side towards Chandmari, Noonmati and Dispur shall be regulated at Apollo point on M.G. Road and diverted via T.R.P. Road, then to H.B. Road or A.T. Road. These vehicles shall proceed either to K.L.B. Road via HB Road (towards Chandmari, Noonmati and
Geetanagar) or A.T. Road (towards Dispur and Khanapara). llAll vehicles coming from Uzanbazar, Kharghuli and Noonmati shall be regulated and diverted via Tayabullah Road-M.G. Road point and G.N.B. Road. llT.R.P road and H.B. Road shall be one way from M.G Road only.
NO PARKING: llM.S. Road llT.R.P. Road llH.B. Road llM.L.N. Road llM.G. Road llB. Barooah Road llM.C. Road ll F.C. Road ll M.R.D. Road ll G.N.B. Road ll G.S. Road ll R. G. Barooah Road
PARKING OF VEHICLES: FOR SPECTATORS FROM CHANDMARI, PALTANBAZAR AND DISPUR SIDE: ll A.R.B. Road ll Dr. J.C. Das Road ll S.S. Road ll S.R.C.B. Road
FOR SPECTATORS FROM BHARALUMUKH, SANTIPUR SIDE: M.G. Road (From Apollo point to F.A. Road crossing both sides).
PARKING OF VEHICLES: llFor officials on duty:(i) Kamakazi parking. (ii) I.W.T. Parking. llFor O.B Vans:West side of Kachomari ghat. llEmergency vehicles (Ambulance, Fire Tenders etc) (i) Lakhi Goli (ii) M.G. Road towards Kedar Road
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GPLUS OCT 12 - OCT 18, 2013
Life
A
RAHUL CHANDA
s money makes the world go round, even marriages survive on financial security these days. Nothing is free and managing a marriage with quotes like ‘happily ever after’ is getting tougher with each passing day. But, where is the commitment factor? Is money more important than love? How do financial factors rule human relationships? GPlus explores.
Discussion
A woman may want to take a break to raise a family or a man may have to support his financially-dependent parents. Whatever your future plans or liabilities are, being open about your intentions is the first step to a healthy beginning. According to a 34-year-old engineer Bhabuk Dutta, it is tough to maintain a happy marriage life working alone. He said, “Whatever I earn has to be divided between my parents and my wife. My wife doesn’t work and her expectations are countless. My parents are retired and rely on me for support. This sharing incites a cold war between them and I get trapped between. If I gift something to my wife, my parents get offended and vice versa. It is chaotic and leads to an unhappy married life.” A city based businessperson Manoj Adhikari is also tensed about taking care of his family and is always in conflict with his wife. He expressed, “I live in a joint family and have two kids. My children study in Gyan School which is a good institute, but my wife wants me to send the kids to an international school like DPS or Royal Global which is very expensive. My uncle passed away so I have to take care of my cousins as well, which my wife doesn’t prefer. So, money is a major problem in any marriage and according to me it has the power to ruin anything.” He further added that he has discussed all these issues with his wife but it has not resolved the issue completely. There’s a time and place for everything, but it’s often difficult to find the right time and place to talk money. Some couples benefit from scheduling a time to talk about money matters, just like they would for a date night or business meeting. Other couples might choose to set a monetary limit that would initiate a conversation: let’s say, for example, they decide purchases under Rupees 500 are discretionary but spending money over that amount warrants a discussion.
False start
It is true that the foundation of any marriage depends on the pillars of truth. Most marriage conflicts happen because of false claims about the monthly income. Some people tend to lie about their incomes in order to get a favourable response. Many cases of divorce have been reported because of falsification of facts. It mostly happens with the groom because in India the groom is expected to run the family after marriage. According to a 28-years-old woman who is also a divorcee, the reason behind her divorce was the money
CAN MONEY RUIN YOUR MARRIAGE? factor. She said, “My ex-husband lied to me that he works in a state bank on a temporary basis and will be permanent soon. He also claimed that his monthly salary was around 25 thousand, which would increase after his job became permanent. After I married him, I slowly discovered that he was just a loan agent with SBI and earned hardly 10 thousand, that too from commissions. Our conflict started because of this and the issue led to our divorce. Today I am a divorcee and starting a new life is tough.”
ELLA DIABLO seria l dater whose list of casua l f lings might just outnumber your age. My adv ice is to brea k up before it gets too late. I k now such men are rea l ar m candy and way too irresistible but again, it ta kes years to hea l a broken heart. Ta ke your ca ll!
Ego conflict
Hardly any human being is not egoistic. Some say it is self respect, some claim it to be confidence and some people are too proud to accept the fact that it is ego. In India, there is a cultural mentality that the men have to earn more than women. In many cases, women do not work at all or are expected to just take care of the family. Except government jobs, all other private enterprises have the risk of closing down and in case a man loses his job and the female partner is working, then there is always an ego clash. If both the spouses are working then the monthly income of the spouses also create conflicts. According to a private bank worker, Sapan Dhar who is married to a government worker, there is always an ego clash between him and his wife. He said, “I do not earn as much as my wife does and it somehow gives me an inferiority complex. I feel bad that my wife manages most of the household expenses, and whatever I earn is not enough. My wife does not complain, but I feel that she is better than I am. I don’t even like her lifestyle but don’t have the right to complain about anything as she contributes more than me.” There are many reasons because of which any marriage can get ruined, but money does matter. All females expect security and we still live in a society where men are suppose to be the bread earners, and if not, then why do females get married to men who are superior or so called successful in life?
I answer all your questions on life, love and sex
I’ve been seeing a guy for about a month and we have a great time together. He is funny, outgoing and really charming. But he has a girlfriend he’s been with for two months. He keeps saying he’ll leave her for me and that he just needs to find the right time, as he wants to stay friends with her. Should I end it? -Reema Sugar Cup, which world are you in. You’ve been dating a guy who is actua lly t wo timing and ma k ing fa lse promises from t he ver y onset. He appears to be a
I’m in a long-distance relationship – he’s from Delhi and we met over there. We only had a little time together and have not seen each other for a year, even though we Skype and text regularly. I really care for him, but can it ever work? -Pallavi Good question. Well in today’s world it seems less likely t hat a long distance based on a few days of toget herness can rea lly work but again, you never k now. A long distance relationship is more like a celeb cr ush- based on day drea ms and fan letters. So my suggestion is before t he relationship loses its stea m do give him a surprise v isit. A f ter a ll, technolog y still can’t replace t he magic of physica l toget herness and Oneness. I hope you understood what I a m hinting at!
If you have any queries for ELLA DIABLO, mail it to diablo@g-plus.in
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GPLUS OCT 12 - OCT 18, 2013
Career
A NUTRITIONIST’S DIARY
PRATIK DHAR
A
course in nutrition and dietetics can offer a prosperous career opportunity. The aim of a course in nutrition and dietetics is to identify nutrition and dietary problems in people and provide useful methods to control issues related to it. Today there are new and advance techniques that are coming up to administer and monitor nutrition and dietetic problems. So, a candidate can join this domain where there is option for further studies and research as well.
Eligibility
Graduate Level
Candidates must be 10+2 passed and must have chemistry and botany/ zoology/ computer science and biochemistry as their subjects. HSC passed with nutrition and dietetics/ home science/ child care psychology and nutrition as one of the papers.
3degree years program Must be a 10+2 passed with a science background HSC passed with nutrition or dietetics related subjects as one of the papers
Biochemistry
Food Science Food Preservation
Food Microbiology Environmental Studies
Dietetics
These are few of the subjects from the entire course and these may vary from institute to institute.
Benefits of the Course If a candidate have interest in cooking and exploring various cuisines of different cultures, traditions and countries then nutrition and dietetics is one subject which will help to know how to design controlled diets. Based on the body mass index, food charts can be designed that would summarize the quantity of fats, carbohydrates, and proteins which must be consumed everyday. As a career, initially, this may prove as a
low paying job but once the experience is gained then there is no looking back as there would be lot of opportunities available that can help to earn quite well along with other scopes as well. Moreover, it also provides opportunities to develop advance skills in the design and implement of research in the field of human nutrition and dietetics. The course also provide with the option to join teaching profession in schools and colleges. To become lecturer a candidate must pass NET exam conducted by UGC, New Delhi.
PQQ One must have patience and dedication for this type of job. Must know and have interest about food and food preparation. Candidates possessing the qualities of team spirit and compassion can join the domain.
There are graduate level and post graduate level courses for pursuing a career in nutrition and dietetics. The graduate degree awarded is the Bachelor of Science or B.Sc. in nutrition and dietetics which is a three years programme and the post-graduate degree is the Master of Science or M.Sc. in nutrition and dietetics which is a two year programme. The courses are highly career oriented in nature and help to develop a thorough knowledge in the field of human nutrition and dietetics.
Eligibility
Post Graduate Level
The eligibility criterion for pursuing M.Sc. in Nutrition and Dietetics is to be a graduate in Home Science.
2program years master degree
Candidates will have to sit for a screening test as some of the institutions conduct their own entrance examination for admission into M.Sc. in Nutrition and Dietetics.
Some of the study related subjects for the undergraduate level Principles of Nutrition
Educational
Must have good communication skills to communicate with the people and to know about their nutrition and diet issues. Those who have genuine interest for research and development in the field of nutrition and dietetics.
Some of the Best Colleges Lady Irwin College, Delhi University Institute of Home Economics, New Delhi Women’s Christian College, Chennai Bishop Choolaparambil Memorial College for Women, Kottayam SNDT Women’s University, Mumbai Acharya NG Ranga Agricultural University, Hyderabad University of Calcutta, Kolkata Lovely Professional University, Punjab Manipal University, Karnataka
Must be a graduate in Home Science. Have to appear for entrance examination
Some of the study related subjects for the post-graduate level Diet Therapy
Food Science
Clinical Nutrition
Advance Nutrition
Biochemistry These are few of the subjects from the entire course and these may vary from institute to institute.
Employment Areas Health Department Hospitals Government Sector Sports and Health Clubs Nursing Care Facilities Health care Sector Schools and Colleges Private Consultant or Practitioner and many more..
Job Types Consultant Researcher Clinical Dietician Nutrition Trainer Sports Nutritionist Medical RepresentativesNutrition and many more..
An Overview The demand for nutritionists has greatly increased over the last few years because of increased awareness amongst people to stay healthy and avoid high calorie unplanned diets leading to obesity, hypertension and other food related diseases. So, there is a good demand for the profession but we do not have the required number of professionals that we should have. A course in nutrition and dietetics is as good as a hotel management course only if the knowledge about foods, measurement scales, and medical implications are regularly upgraded. If a candidate is employed in a hospital then it would further help him or her to complement a career as a dietician.
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GPLUS OCT 12 - OCT 18, 2013
Health
A Modern Plague Noise pollution and its effects on the heart
Dr. Bikash Rai Das,
Consultant Heart Surgeon, GNRC Hospital
W
ith Durga Puja round the corner, the noise level everywhere is going up and will remain like that till the emersion of Devi Durga. Noise, defined as ‘unwanted sound’, is perceived as an environmental stressor and nuisance. Non-auditory effects of noise can be defined as ‘all those effects on health and well-being which are caused by exposure to noise, with the exclusion of effects on the hearing organ and the effects which are due to the masking of auditory information (i.e. communication problems). Exposure to continuous noise of 85–90 dBA, can lead to a progressive loss of hearing, with an increase in the threshold of hearing sensitivity. One of the primary characteristics which makes people detest noise is its loudness or perceived intensity. Loudness comprises the intensity of sound, the tonal distribution of sound and its duration. High frequency noise has been found to be more annoying than low frequency noise. Hearing impairments due to noise are a direct consequence of the effects of sound energy on the inner ear. Noise disturbs activities and communication, causing annoyance. In some cases, annoyance may lead to stress responses, then symptoms and possibly illness. Alternatively, noise may influence health directly and not through annoyance. The response to noise may depend on characteristics of the sound, including intensity, frequency, complexity of sound, duration and the meaning of the noise. To assess an individual’s risk for cardiovascular issues, researchers at the Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine used a measure of arterial harden-
In summary, environmental noise is related to hypertension and there is also evidence that environmental noise may be a risk factor for coronary heart disease. A sudden intense exposure to noise may stimulate catecholamine secretion and precipitate cardiac dysrhythmias. ing known as “thoracic aortic calcification” (TAC). When the data was complete, noise pollution was found to increase TAC scores by 8 percent. Women who are already sensitive to noise, for example, can find their cardiovascular health risk increase by as much as 80 percent.
How does relentless noise affect our body?
Noise can affect more than just our ears. It can impact sleep patterns, cause headaches, and ultimately affect learning and focus. The result is that the body begins to experience stress. Along with stress comes the release of hormones such as cortisol, adrenaline and noradrenaline, which can eventually lead to high blood pressure, stroke and even heart failure.
Noise and sleep disturbance
Exposure to noise disturbs sleep. Noise exposure during sleep may increase blood pressure, heart rate and finger pulse amplitude as well as body movements. There may also be after-effects during the day following disturbed sleep; perceived sleep quality, mood and performance in terms of reaction time all decreased following sleep disturbed by road traffic noise.
Noise exposure and performance
There is good evidence that noise exposure impairs performance. Indeed, even anticipation of a loud noise exposure in the absence of real exposure may impair performance. Noise exposure may also slow rehearsal in memory, influence processes of selectivity in memory, and choice of strategies for carrying out tasks. There is also evi-
dence that noise may reduce helping behaviour, increase aggression and reduce the processing of social cues.
Noise and cardiovascular disease
Noise exposure causes a number of predictable short-term physiological responses mediated through the autonomic nervous system. Exposure to noise causes physiological activation including increase in heart rate and blood pressure, peripheral vasoconstriction and thus increased peripheral vascular resistance. Individuals exposed to continuous noise at levels of at least 85 dB have higher blood pressure. Noise exposure has also been an indicator of exposure to other factors, both physical and psychosocial, which are also associated with high blood pressure. Noise levels predicted increased mortality risk. Noise exposure has also recently been linked to greater risk of death from motor vehicle injury. One possibility is that the effects of noise on blood pressure are mediated through an intermediate psychological response such as noise annoyance Noise exposure has been related to more medical treatment for heart trouble and hypertension, more cardiovascular drug use and higher blood pressure, even after adjustment for age, sex, smoking, height/ weight and socio-economic differences. The evidence of the effects of noise on coronary risk factors has not been especially consistent: effects of noise have been shown on systolic blood pressure (but not diastolic pressure), total cholesterol, total triglycerides, blood viscosity, platelet count and glucose level.
Endocrine responses to noise
Exposure to high intensity noise has been linked to raise levels of noradrenaline and adrenaline. Catecholamine secretion decreased when people wore hearing protection against noise. Cortisol level also has been shown to go up in relation to noise. The general pattern of endocrine responses to noise is indicative of noise as a stressor, exciting short-term physiological responses.
Noise and psychiatric disorder
Noise exposure creates annoyance which leads to more serious psychological effects. Noise causes annoyance and, independently, mental ill-health also increases annoyance. Noise exposure and psychological symptomsSymptoms reported among people regularly exposed to high noise levels include nausea, headaches, argumentativeness and changes in mood and anxiety. Many people reported ‘headaches’, ‘restless nights’, and ‘being tense and edgy’ in high-noise areas.
Noise and common mental disorder
Noise is associated with increased anxiety problems, depression and nervousness. Road traffic noise has been weakly associated with mental health symptoms. Overall, environmental noise seems to be linked to psychological symptoms but not to clinical psychiatric disorder. However, there may be a link to psychiatric disorder at much higher noise levels.
Noise annoyance
The most widespread and well
documented subjective response to noise is annoyance, which may include fear and mild anger. Noise is also seen as intrusive into personal privacy. Annoyance reactions are often associated with a degree of interference. Vibrations are perceived as a complement to loud noise and are found to be important factors in determining annoyance, particularly because they are commonly experienced through other senses as well as hearing. Noise annoyance increases with fear of danger from the noise source.
Noise and non-auditory health effects in children
Children represent a group which is particularly vulnerable to the non-auditory health effects of noise. They have less cognitive capacity to understand and anticipate stressors and lack well-developed coping strategies. Moreover, in view of the fact that children are still developing both physically and cognitively, there is a possible risk that exposure to an environmental stressor such as noise may have irreversible negative consequences for this group.
What can be done to reduce noise pollution?
Since prolonged exposure to high level of noise could lead to irritation, hypertension and temporary or permanent loss of hearing and the most affected are the Puja Committee members themselves who are exposed to high noise level for long hours, the Puja Committees should monitor the noise pollution level during the Puja festivities and can take up measures to control it, other than concentrating on an awareness drive. Noise pollution can go down drastically if the Puja organisers comply with, restricted use of loudspeakers/public address system at night between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. barring occasions of public emergencies; by sticking to mandatory use of sound limiter whenever loudspeaker/public address system is used in open air; and by restricting the use of noisy crackers.
17
GPLUS OCT 12 - OCT 18, 2013
Classifieds
JOBS
TO LET
PROPERTY
Industrial Shed on Rent at Sonapur. For details Contact: 9706089000
Booking open for comfortable n luxury flat at last gate, beltola. For Details
Commercial Space available on rent at G.S.Road near Down Town Hospital. For details Contact - 9864015168
Position open for Digital Marketing Executive. Must have understanding of Social Media Marketing, Search Engine Optimisation and other web applications. Qualification no bar. Experience must. Contact 9706007487 immediately.
1.5 Katha Miadipatta land at Lokhra Hillside with boundary walls(3 sides)
Brand Servicing Executives for a leading Advertising Agency based out of Guwahati. Candidates having experience in advertising, media, mass communication with great communication skills may apply. Contact 8486002313 or send your CV to namita.das@insightbrandcom.com
For all your commercial/ Residential/ Warehousing/ Industrial Real Estate requirements in North East India,
Vacancy for a Female Assistant at a showroom in Six Mile. Applicants need to have computer knowledge and prior experience at a showroom dealing in ladies garments/ items. CONTACT: 099540 11444
Office space available on rent at Six Mile(G.S Road).
Contact - 9706042727, 9864094414 Available approx. 1,000 sq. ft. space suitable for office/ godown at mezzanine floor, Anandi Bhawan, SRCB Road, Fancy Bazar.
Contact: 98640 71704
Available 400 sq. ft. furnished office space on 5th floor, G.S.Tower, Chatribari.
Contact : 8011055100
Available for rent approx. 800 sq. ft. Godown space in Chattribari, partly tinshed with good height. Contact: 98641 59713 Lease/Rent for factory/ godown, 40,000 sq.ft. and 50,000 sq.ft. in same premises at Industrial Area.
Contact : 9706093377
Warehouse available
at Brahmaputra Industrial Park (Amingaon) Guwahati 30000 sq ft with guard room and quarter.
Contact- 9707026095.
Brand new 3BHK flat at Subham Heights, Kahilipara Road, near Ganeshguri available for immediate rent. Contact 9706000999.
SALE/ PURCHASE For sale/ purchase of any type of land.
Contact Gopal Das 98590 73263 OFFICE SPACE REQUIRED An established business organisation is looking for a furnished office space on GS Road on long term lease. Minimum 2000 sqft. Maximum 3500 sq.ft. Contact immediately on 9706089034.
Contact - 84862 79695, 9435044575 Contact Vijay Bagri 98641-59713
Contact Aspire Realtors, +918720909000 RENT
New Building at Chatribari. Completion time 1 year. Ground Floor 1500 sq.ft. can be taken in part - 400, 300 and 250 sq.ft. First Floor 3000 sq.ft. for banks/ corporates etc. CONTACT 8011055100
Vacancy for an Accountant in a commercial house. Applicants need to have computer knowledge along with experience in ST/ IT returns filing. CONTACT: 098640 71704 Position open for 5 nos. young dynamic graduates for an upcoming retail chain in Guwahati for Direct Sales assignments. Candidates must be fluent in English, Assamese and Hindi (spoken) and must have ability to persuade. Salary would be the best in industry. Freshers as well as experienced candidates may send their latest profile to pinki3232@gmail.com or
call 9854429974 for details.
VEHICLES Tata DI 207. Running Condition. Make 1999 model for immediate sale.
Contact: 98641 06687 OTHERS
Theme studio brings wide range of baby birth announcement trays n boxes, wedding trays, envelopes n theme party decor. For details
contact – 9864050056, 9706089039
PUJA OFFER Calm n Cozy, Loreal professional ladies n kids salon, Straightening + haircut @ Rs 2499 Haircut + Hair spa + Face clean up @ Rs 999 Hair spa @ Rs 499 Address - Gani building, 1st floor, near rly gate no 4, MS road, Machkhowa
Ph - 7896618507, 9864802203
Book your classifieds For bookings, contact +91 84860 02303, +91 84860 02304,+91361 2737737 or email us at : info@insightbrandcom.com
* Booking will be accepted subject to availability of space ** Open for jobs, rental and buy/sale of property
18
GPLUS OCT 12 - OCT 18, 2013
Web Watch
15
Microsoft begins recycling old inactive Outlook email accounts
A
ccording to Microsoft Services Agreement, a user must log in to their Microsoft email accounts “periodically, at a minimum of every 270 days , to keep the Microsoft branded services portion of the services active.” If a user does not do so Microsoft states, may cancel the users access and the data may be permanently deleted form their servers. In a report, it was revealed that Microsoft is now not only closing down old accounts but recycling them. A point which isn’t outlined in their policy. After a total of 360 days, the email account is reissued and made available for anyone to sign up for the chosen name.
Dropbox now automatically saves screenshots from your PC (or Mac)
P
opular cloud storage service Dropbox has added a new feature to its desktop client, that allows screenshots to be automatically saved and synced to the cloud. This feature is automatically enabled if the users have the latest version (2.4.0.) of the Dropbox client installed on their PC (or Mac) and the first time they take a screenshot, the users will get a pop up asking if they would like to save all of their screenshots in the future to Dropbox. Dropbox noticed that their clients wouldn’t automatically update to the latest version, so if they are facing the same issue, the users can download and install version 2.4.0. from the Dropbox website itself. Again if the users want to create a link to the saved screenshot to share with others, you can use the CTRL+Print Screen command to do so, and the link will be saved to their clipboard. Dropbox has added another new feature for Mac users in the form of a new iPhoto importer. This feature helps the user to save all their photos from the iPhoto folder to the cloud with just a single click. However, if anyone has a large number of photos saved under iPhoto, then they would do well to keep a watch on their storage space use on Dropbox.
10mln
Line now has over users in India, aims to go past 20mln by year-end
Japan based Line Corp, which was launched in India in July has crossed the 10 million milestone mark in India. Line allows users to make free calls and messages and offers support for Hindi and English language. The company plans to reach 20 million users by year end. Line has tied up with Sony India to have the IM preinstalled on theXperia Z1 and Xperia C smartphones. Globally, The messaging app has over 200 million users and competes with messaging apps like WeChat, WhatsApp and Viber. According to a recent report by Informa Telecoms and Media, the volume of mobile messaging apps, and P2P SMS is expected to double by the end of 2013.
My vodafone app launched for ios, android, blackberry users
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odafone India has launched an application, called My Vodafone, for its customers for iOS, Android and Blackberry platforms. From paying phone bills, recharging your prepaid account, tracking service requests, or simply subscribing to the best offers, ‘My Vodafone’ App helps you to do everything on the move. My Vodafone App’ works on an advanced technology that allows real-time integration with Vodafone systems for accessing information on billing, recharge and data consumption. The app can be seamlessly used on multiple types of data connectivity such as Vodafone GPRS/3G, Non-Vodafone connectivity including WiFi (Registration requires Vodafone Data Connectivity). The app is available for free; however usage and download will be billed as per the subscriber’s data plan.
H
The Best Android Apps
ere are the top productivity tools, utilities, and games for smartphones based on Google’s Android OS. If you’re looking for multiplatform apps or titles exclusive to BlackBerry or iPhone, turn to the other articles in this package.
P Manage your files r Astro File Manager makes your phone o act as a miniature PC. You can copy/ move/rename files, back up apps, send d files as attachments, and create comu pressed files. c t Manage archives The powerful AndroZip File Mani ager works with archives, including v 7ZIPhone, BZIP2, GZIPhone, RAR, i TAR, and ZIPhone files. You can use t it to create GZIP, TAR, or ZIPhone ary chives, too. Free T o o l s O r g a n i z e r s a n d
U Find the best Wi-Fi t Want to find the least-crowded Wii Fi channel? Wifi Analyzer shows a graphical representation of Wi-Fi l SSIDs’ signal strength, plus which i channels are being used. Free t i Customize alerts In Missed Call you can customize e your phone’s LED light, ringtones, s vibrations, and alerts for missed calls, incoming calls, SMS, Bluetooth, and calendar events. Free
Find a lost Android
Text with panache
If you lose your phone, AntiDroidTheft turns on remote GPS tracking so that you can determine its location. You can also trigger the phone’s camera to shoot an image that might help you locate the handset. Free
Forget the stock SMS utility. Handcent SMS brings customizable texting tools--with iPhone-style speech bubbles--to Android. Free
Make recipes mobile
Through Digital Recipe Sidekick you can browse and import recipes from AllRecipes.com, save recipes to SD card, e-mail them, edit them, or enter your own. The app will even read recipes to you. Free
Barcode Scanner helps you look up products for comparison shopping
Scan bar codes: Barcode Scanner handles bar codes including the 2D QR code and lets you look up the associated product or URL for instant price checks and comparison shopping. Free Convert and calculate- The in-beta ConvertMe app is a handy unit converter, currency converter, and tip calculator. It comes with more than 1500 units across more than 65 categories, and it supports 14 languages. Free
T i m e s a Take a measurement v The Smart Measure app, which uses e your phone’s camera, measures the of objects and estimates the r height distance between your phone and the s object. Free
B r View Flash video now Thanks to the Skyfire browser, you can o play streaming Flash video. ‘Nuff said. w Free s e Browse better Dolphin Browser HD Web browsr The er has tabs, gesture-based navigation, s and plug-ins. It’s a far more functional browser than the one that came preloaded on your phone. Free
Share Web pages
Bookmarklet plugs into the Android Web browser (or Dolphin HD) and lets you share web pages with AIM, Bit.ly, Delicious, Digg, Facebook, Twitter, and other services. Free
A u Track podcasts Pod, which integrates d With Beyond with the Android music player, you i can discover and manage audio and o video podcasts. The premium version adds better controls for updating and The basic
a managing subscriptions. version is free. n d Discover cool P h o t o A p p s
podcasts
The Listen app helps you search for thousands of audio feeds, stream them or subscribe to them. It integrates with Google Reader on the desktop as well. Free
Work smart with photos
Using Picasa Tool Pro you can batchupload photos, as well as browse and manage your albums, photos, and comments. Free
19
GPLUS OCT 12 - OCT 18, 2013
Fashion
Dashing during Prerna Thard
D
Dandiya
urga Puja preparation is in full swing everywhere. With less than a week’s time to get everything ready for welcoming the Goddess, shopping seems to be at its climax. While pandal hopping usually begins from Saptami, the Navratri Dandiya nights have already commenced. Young girls and boys have planned out their looks already, but if you haven’t, it’s simple - being colourful is the key. Bright and vibrant reds, yellows and oranges would do the trick. The traditional dress for the dandiya nights is the ghagra choli embellished with mirror-work, embroidery, sequins, shells or beads. Take your pick but make sure it is a bright shade.
Girls and boys, follow these tricks to look your best: Girls
Pair a bright piece of ghagra and choli with a contrasting dupatta Look for the complementary hues Mirror- work and embroidery is a must Keep bangles to a limit, the dandiyas don’t need any distraction Maang-tika is a peppy addition to your look along with a baajuband
Boys
Dress up in matching, colourful traditional dhotis and angrakha or kurtas Wear high waist tops (Kedia). They have a very different feel, and look great when one dances in circles Traditional Mojris (leather shoes with embroidery on the upper surface and hardened leather soles) will complete the look Accessorise your look with matching metallic jewellery Turbans are optional TIP: To keep the sweat from squashing your delightful play, stick to cotton based materials for these events. Fly away the night playing Dandiya! Tip: Your dandiya night can be made special if you pair up your ensemble with that of your partner. Match the hues and do not play the whole matching game here or you will end up looking like twins.
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GPLUS OCT 12 - OCT 18, 2013
Your weekly dose of HOROSCOPE ARIES On Monday, you are a turtle entirely uncomfortable with the idea of sunlight, and Tuesday is a stay-insideyour-shell kind of day, too. It won’t be until midweek that you’ll be ready for the outside world, although then you’ll be ready with a vengeance. Wednesday and Thursday see you marching boldly forward, introducing yourself to strangers, putting foreign foods into your gullet and being generally pioneering. On Friday and Saturday you have to slow down a bit for career reasons (you can’t come across as too hasty in that realm right now), but Sunday you’ll stretch your legs again.
TAURUS You wish you could take things lightly on Monday and Tuesday but that just isn’t your personality right now. Everything is significant. Emotions are intense. You may feel a surge of jealousy over something it’s ridiculous to be jealous about. Wednesday and Thursday, practice not coming across as righteous — and not feeling righteous. Modesty should be your modus operandi. Don’t take your friends for granted, remind them how much they mean to you. By Friday you’ll be feeling more comfortable in your own skin (and in your social standing) and this comfort will last into the weekend.
GEMINI Health is at top of your mind on Monday. The slightest hint of a symptom sends you searching the Internet for information about what may be going on. Little may be going on at all, but interest in your well-being is, you know, a healthy interest. Tuesday you’re observant of your body as well as other areas — you are a detective. Wednesday and Thursday see you probing deeply. Friday, unfortunately, is a day of more questions than answers and Saturday yields little in the way of new discoveries, but on Sunday someone says something that suddenly makes a week’s worth of clues come together.
CANCER The ship is rocking and heaving and throwing you all around. You’re in no position to sit down and sign something — your signature would just slide off the page. This is what Monday and Tuesday are like. By Wednesday, the ship will have steadied a bit, but rather than be overly ambitious, you should invest your energy in yourself, do something self-nurturing. The idea of being social isn’t very appealing on Thursday, and Friday and Saturday are stayat-home days as well. In dealing with others on Sunday, be as flexible as possible.
LEO To figure out what’s going on in the garden, sometimes you have to uproot everything and take a look at the soil. Monday and Tuesday, the situation below the surface is finally getting some of your attention. Sound boring? Perhaps. But Wednesday and Thursday are the exact opposite of boring — they are fiery, fun, cruising-downthe-highway-with-the-top-down sort of days, full of romance and exciting roadside distractions. Friday and Saturday, your enthusiasm hasn’t let up a bit, and Sunday is about you and youknow-who. (Some advice: Don’t cling.)
VIRGO Your restlessness on Monday and Tuesday is useful. It’s due to an unquenchable intellectual curiosity, and intellectual curiosity — obviously — is what has led to the advances that the modern world is built on in terms of science, philosophy and the arts. You’re a genius! Sadly, some forces (probably in the family realm) are going to prevent you from making good on your genius Wednesday and Thursday, but Friday and Saturday are open to your creative whims. And Sunday, an experimental mood guides your day, so be open to anything.
TIMEPASS
LIBRA Money makes the world go ‘round, they say, and it’s certainly all you can think about on Monday and Tuesday. Not that you’re thinking like a greedy person, you’re just thinking. What are things worth? What do you want to do with your money? These questions deserve as much consideration as you’re willing to invest in them — maybe a conversation along these lines would interest a friend on Wednesday or Thursday. Friday and Saturday find you a bit down about something in your past, but a jolt of romance on Sunday brings you very much back to the present.
SCORPIO Rebirth and regeneration are key themes at the beginning of the week. The old leaves are being replaced by new ones (at least metaphorically). You feel more connected to your friends and they feel more connected to you, as will be obvious on Wednesday and, well, every day after that this week. You find yourself doing things you wouldn’t normally do on your own on Thursday. On Friday and Saturday everyone you know is simply in a great mood — these are rare, wonderful times. Problems at home or with your family might arise Sunday, be open-minded.
SAGITTARIUS It’s okay to be moody on Monday and Tuesday. Try not to be moody around other people, if you can help it, but don’t beat yourself up for your feelings. And besides, by Wednesday, everything will go on the upswing and stay that way. Thursday will be a jovial day, too. Bringing your lunch to work on Friday is a smart idea — as the week winds to a close, strategies for financial shrewdness figure into your thoughts — and Saturday, even though you want to go shopping, not doing so is a much better plan. Communication and creativity define Sunday.
JUST FOR LAUGHs Husband to wife: Today is a fine day. Next day he says: Today is a fine day. Again next day, he says same thing: Today is a fine day. Finally after a week, the wife can’t take it and asks her husband: Since one week, you are saying this ‘Today is a fine day’. I am fed up. What’s the matter? Husband: Last week when we had an argument, you said, ‘I will leave you one fine day.’ I was just trying to remind you. A worried guy telephoned the FBI and got a special agent on the line. “What can I do for you, sir,” the special agent asked.
CAPRICORN
SUDOKU
You have a decision to make on Monday or Tuesday, and you have tons of friends who can help you make it. Rely on them more than you usually might. Certain things might not seem possible on Wednesday or Thursday, but they are possible — so long as you persevere and don’t opt out (emotionally) too early on. On the other hand, keep your emotions in check and as separate as possible from tasks at hand. Friday and Saturday are truly wonderful days, and Sunday finds you babbling excitedly about the future.
AQUARIUS The thoughts you have about your career at the start of the week are good thoughts to be having, healthy thoughts to be having. You are an ambitious, goal-oriented person, and while this sometimes produces stress in your life, in the long run you will have something to show for it. Try to relieve some of this stress on Wednesday or Thursday with a social activity or, better yet, several social activities. Friday and Saturday will return you to the business of keeping your head down and getting things done. But Sunday? You haven’t felt more brilliant (or more attractive) in a while.
PISCES You are swimming in cloudy waters on Monday and Tuesday, and some of the fish nearby are starting to appear suspiciously more like sharks. Are they sharks? Do they have your best interests at heart? No sense getting paranoid, but pay attention this week — especially on Wednesday and Thursday. Friday has you so surrounded by friends that there’s very little chance anyone would be able to sneak up on you, and Saturday (an easy day) and Sunday (an intellectually stimulating day) offer a lot in the way of pleasure.
“I’ve been getting threatening letter in the mail,” the guy said. “That’s against the law, isn’t it?” “It certainly is,” the Government man said. “Do you know who’s been writing them?” “Yeah,” the guy said. “My girlfriend’s husband.” During a practical exercise at a military police base, the instructor was giving the class instruction in unarmed self- defense. After he presented a number of different situations in which they might find themselves, he asked a student, “What steps would you take if someone were coming at you with a large, sharp knife?” The student replied, “BIG ones.”
Solutions (Last Issue)
Fun
21
GPLUS OCT 12 - OCT 18, 2013
Travel
I
Indian Street Food Destinations
Gplus feature
f you are a foodie who loves to try new cuisines, India is a heaven for food lovers. Every state in the country has something unique in terms of usage of spices, seasonings, ingredients etc. Whatever your choice of food, there’s something for every taste bud in India. Whether it is the variations in tea, the way samosas are made or just the myriad types of sweets produced, a destination’s character is not just defined by its people, local sights, language or art. Some of the best street food in India and the locations: 1. Chole Bhature - Delhi: The capital of India is one of the best places to have street food. Delhi offers a variety of road side food stalls. Chole bhature is a Punjabi dish but very popular in major urban cities of India. Delhi is famous for chole bhature commonly eaten for breakfast. Other famous road side food from Delhi are rajma chawal, parathe and mouth watering chaats. 2. Poha-Jalebi – Indore : Indore is most popular for its wide range of namkeens, samosa, chaats, lapsi and bafla. Poha-Jalebi is the best street food here and the specialty is that it is served with sev and jalebi. 3. Litti Choka - Patna: Litti Choka looks like dal baati of Rajasthan but the recipe and taste are completely different. The traditional dish of Bihar is made with sattu, ground gram nut or chana served with chokha made out of potato, brinjal and tomato and a bowl of melted pure desi ghee. 4. Aloo Tikki – Lucknow: Aloo tikki is typically served at road-side tracks from stalls in Lucknow and all over India. It is one of the most mouth-watering delicacies within the street food of Uttar Pradesh. The North Indian snack is made of boiled potatoes and various spices served hot along with sauce. Other popular street foods in Uttar Pradesh included bhel, pani puri, sev puri, dahi puri, jhalmuri and Puri-Subzie. 5. Vada Pao - Mumbai: Vada Pao is the Indian version of burger and most popular road side food straight from the heart of Maharashtra. It consists of a fried potato
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dumpling called vada served in a bun with condiments such as red or green chutneys and fried green chillies. The famous vegetarian fast food dish is native to Maharashtra. Few other famous foods are misal pav, pav bhaji, dabeli, batata wada and kande pohe. 6. Kachori- Bikaner: The royal state of India, Rajasthan is well famous for its awesome cuisines and delectable street foods. Its famous Bikaneri kachori and popular mirchi bada are the most favorite amongst the locals, and found in almost every street shop or stall. The desert state also known for its most popular dalbaati-churma, pakores and mawa, 7. Dabeli- Ahmedabad: The most popular street food originate from the Kutch region of Gujarat and travel across street of Mumbai, Pune and other cities of India. Dabeli is a very popular spicy snacks item made of boiled potatoes with special dabeli spices. 8. Egg Rolls – Kolkatta: Egg Rolls are one of the most popular of all street foods in Kolkata. A fried egg wrapped inside a paratha is served with chutney or sour dipping sauce in many roadside stalls. An-
other famous street side food item in Kolkatta is phuchka or golgappa. 9. Mirchi Bajji – Hyderabad: The famous Hyderabadi style mirchi bajjis is a common snack or appetizer, stuffed with green chilli fritters. Hyderabad is also famous for its biryani, dosa, idli and bonda. Food lovers who do not have plans of travelling anytime soon, do not get disheartened. Guwahati has a number of street side eat – out options. Right from local delicacies like momos to the Mumbai pav bhaji, Fancy bazar is famous for the variety of mouth watering snacks it offers to food junkies. Happy eating!
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GPLUS OCT 12 - OCT 18, 2013
G-Talk
Is media still a viable business option in the Northeast? Lakheswar Baruah Businessman
Rupam Barua
Senior Journalist
POINT
COUNTERPOINT
According to my opinion, I would definitely not want, slow or shut down of the media sector because I believe that it is still a booming domain in the Northeast. Firstly, some of the media houses have been shut down and one of the main reasons may be the mismanagement by their respective people in-charge, but that does not mean the condition of the entire media sector is vulnerable here. Secondly, the utilization of money was not been done in a proper manner. Today, Guwahati is one of the most important cities of the country and the gateway to Northeast. So, in such circumstances media would never have to struggle for its existence, in fact it will definitely flourish here. But if due to mismanagement, the organization stop functioning then obviously the owners should be held responsible. So, I do not believe that investing in Northeast media sector would be an unwise decision. In fact, more investment should be done so that the people are positive about the media sector in the region. The Assamese daily ‘Pratidin’ is a good example because the paper and its owner has seen both ups and downs over the years in its making, but still it has managed to keep its position strong and today it is one of the best newspapers in the Northeast probably with a circulation of more than 1.5 lakhs. So, as far as I know, the owner never had to see any fruitless results. As a businessman I would obviously say that a business is prone to both prosperity and downturn. So, when it is seeing the light of prosperity, there is nothing to worry about but when the same business goes through a bad phase, some extra caution has to be taken as a measure. Similarly, in the media industry as well such precautionary measures are most important for the progress. As I have told earlier, problem may arise only when the utilization of money is not done in a systematic manner. If the money that is earned is invested from one source to another without any prior planning then various difficulties are bound to arise. Two city based newspapers were shut down because the owner was involved with some chit fund schemes and hence could not manage everything together. Now, had these schemes been run genuinely then there would not have been any trouble for the two newspapers. In Assam, one reason for the chit fund companies to go bankrupt is because their agents are given a humongous percentage as commission, which perhaps no other business gives and many of the chit funds could not live up to their promises, as made to the public. Today, for a better survival of the media industry in Northeast region, the need of the hour is that proper organisations must become its representatives and no other persons or organisations should be allowed to invest or start a media house whose financial foundation is based on fake identity.
Two city based newspapers were shut down because the owner was involved with some chit fund schemes and hence could not manage everything together. Now, had these schemes been run genuinely then there would not have been any trouble for the two newspapers”
The government should take initiative and make some guidelines, so that even if a channel or paper dies out, the future of the employees can be secured.
The proprietor or the owner of a newspaper or a channel starts it as a business venture and they want to make a profit out of it. At the same time, the employees, including the journalists working in those organisations want salary in return for their services. Therefore, the people who want to invest in a news channel or a newspaper should go ahead only after taking into account the needs and demands of the employees working in his company. They should start their business following the norms of labour or industrial act, strictly. We cannot deny the investment made in the field of media in straightaway. Some might have opened a media house as a means of to increase their influence but after all, it does create a many job opportunities for a section of people. What needs to be done is to ensure job security for the employees, both the journalists and non-journalists, working in a media house. In this regard, the government should take initiative and make some guidelines, so that even if a channel or paper dies out, the future of the employees can be secured. In addition, there should be a provision of re-intake of the old employees in an organisation in case of revival of a dying media house. In case of journalism, there are various wage boards (Palekar, Manisena, Majhithia etc) to ensure the wages of the journalists but sadly, apart from a few houses, most of the media houses of the state do not follow the guidelines of the wage board. We have seen lot of media houses come up and die in the state. In all those cases, be it in the recent case of the closure of Prime News or the closing of newspapers owned by Saradha group, thousands of employees working in those organisations became jobless. Earlier also, newspapers like Ajir Batori and Natun Dainik became defunct. Therefore, it is time the government intervened, because it (government) has its own information and if the government deems the people to be incapable of running the business (newspaper or a channel), they can take necessary action. At the same time, the journalists too should be careful before taking up a job and demand security for their jobs in a united way. Because, even if a newspaper or a news channel has to be closed down for some reason, as employees of those organisations, the journalists will be the victim and have to face uncertainties for their future. Moreover, Assam has a history of deaths of journalists be it militancy or other reasons. But, we have not seen any action being taken by the proprietors of the media houses to compensate the families of those deceased journalists.
CORRIGENDUM
The photograph on the left is of Mr Rupam Goswami, BJP state spokesperson. The picture published against his name, in last week’s G-Talk was of Mr Lakheswar Baruah. We apologise for the inadvertent error. - Editor
23
GPLUS OCT 12 - OCT 18, 2013
Citypedia
printing houseS
G Plus will keep on publishing such relevant and useful information in this page in the coming issues. Compiled by Rangman Das
Amba Processing
Hedayetpur Guwahati – 781003 Phone No – 0361-2660254
Anchal
#1, Lachit Lane, Rajgarh Road Guwahati – 781007 Phone No – 0361-6014323, 9864176520
AP Trading Co
GS Road, Paltanbazar Guwahati – 781008 Phone No – 0361-2734344, 9864015264, 98640-83332
Arindam
Near Byelane – 11 Rajgarh Road Guwahati – 781003 Phone No – 98640-13832
ART Printers & Stationeries Ratnadeep Building A T Road, Guwahati – 781001 Phone No – 0361-2541486
Assam Paper & Printer
Aathgaon, Guwahati – 781001 Phone No – 99544-98682
Baju Associates
HPB Road, Paltan Bazar Guwahati – 781008 Phone No – 98640-57753, 98641-33746
BB Printers Tip-Top Gali
Lakhtokia Guwahati – 781001 Phone No – 0361-2631315, 9864097568
Bhabani Offset & Imaging Services (P) Ltd.
Lachit Lane, Rajgarh Road Guwahati – 781007 Phone No – 0361-2524056, 2455734
BR Business Forms (P) Ltd
House No - 8 Near Shiv Tample, Bishnupur Guwahati – 781016 Phone No – 0361-2474126, 2478001
Brighter Publications
Near Pratiksha Hospital VIP Road, Guwahati – 781036 Phone No – 99547-47957
Deep Touch
Jayanta Commercial Complex Silpukhuri, Guwahati – 781003 Phone No – 0361-2664738
B S Publications
Digital Offset
Chitraban
TRP Road, Machkhowa Guwahati – 781009 Phone No – 0361-2608657
Zoo Narengi Road Guwahati – 781021 Phone No – 98640-68552 RGB Road, Near Gauhati Commerce College Guwahati – 781003 Phone No – 0361-2457981
Chitrankan
Hedayetpur Guwahati – 781003 Phone No – 99575-66422, 9864223128
City Offset
Anandanagar, Adabari Tiniali Guwahati – 781012 Phone No – 0361-2571269, 9435540446
Colour Plus Advertising & Publishing Rajgarh Main Road Guwahati – 781003 Phone No – 98640-33529
Colour Wave
B Baruah Road, Ulubari Guwahati – 781007 Phone No – 98640-52085, 9864912770
Creative Associates
GNB Road, Guwahati Club Guwahati – 781003 Phone No – 94350-40078, 9954116563
Creative Imagers
S C Goswami Road Panbazar, Guwahati – 781001 Phone No – 0361-2546334
Creative Prints
Parameswari Building Chatribari, Guwahati – 781001 Phone No – 0361-2516179, 2513240
Kumarpara Panchali Guwahati – 781009 Phone No – 0361-2480396
Eastern Graphics – Designing 3rd Floor, Basant Complex Solapara Road, Paltanbazar Guwahati – 781008 Phone No – 98540-09930, 8822955050
Electronic Document Centre G S Road, Ulubari Guwahati – 781007 Phone No – 0361-2527110
Eskebee
GNB Road, Silpukhuri Guwahati – 781003 Phone No – 0361-2663412
Essar Offset
Jana Path Lane, Ulubari Guwahati – 781007 Phone No – 94351-06080, 9864136060
Fair Graphics
Industrial Estate, Bamunimaidam Guwahati – 781021 Phone No – 0361-2656899, 2131144
First Impression
Genesis Printers & Publishers (P) Ltd 348 Express Highway (VIP Road) Opp Doordarshan Colony Near Six Mile, Barbari Guwahati – 781036 Phone No – 98643-51008, 03612337100
Branch – Munni Market, 1st Floor
Opp ICICI Bank, G S Road Guwahati – 781005 Phone No – 98643-51007, 9864851208
Global Incorporate
G S Road, Ulubari Guwahati – 781007 Phone No – 0361-2451620, 2454127
Graphic Design (India)
Jana Path, Hatigaon Guwahati – 781006 Phone No – 0361-2261729, 9864093320
Graphica Design Studio
M G Road, Panbazar Guwahati – 781001 Phone No – 94350-48498, 9864071378
Gung-Ho Ventures
A M Road, Suhagpur Guwahati – 781008 Phone No – 88760-36381
Jai Bharat Press
A T Road, Machkhowa Guwahati – 781009 Phone No – 0361-2514666
House No - 77 Voltas Lane, Chandmari Colony Guwahati – 781003 Phone No – 98640-53636
Jyoti Printers
Geetanjali Printers
Kamrup Graphics
Opp China Town, Rajgarh Road Guwahati – 781003 Phone No – 98644-12867
MRD Road, Bamunimaidam Guwahati – 781021 Phone No – 0361-2657794 #20, Bye lane – 5 Rajgarh Road Guwahati – 781007 Phone No – 98540-27092, 9854027093, 98641-76563
24
GPLUS OCT 12 - OCT 18, 2013
Catching up
Headlining acts!
Sonam Kapoor WHO’S SHE?
Dwayne Bravo WHO’S HE?
Dwayne James John Bravo was born on October 7 in 1983 and is a West Indian cricketer.
SO WHAT?
Bravo is Chennai Super Kings’s leading wicket taker and he also plays for the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League and the Chittagong Kings in the Bangladesh Premier League.
NOW WHAT?
Cricketer Dwayne Bravo of Chennai Super Kings (CSK), who is known for his impromptu dance moves, has been approached for a promotional song soon to be composed in the Tamil drama film ‘Ula’. The shooting for the song is reported to begin soon. He’s also known for his freestyle dancing.
Is Charlize getting too cozy? Charlize Theron has been spotted with Family Guy creator Seth MacFarlane over the years. But things are perhaps getting more serious between the two as the couple was recently seen getting very cosy. Though, they are working on a new movie together so that could explain why they’ve been together so often.
Sonam Kapoor was born on june 9 in 1985 and is an Indian actor and a former model.
SO WHAT?
Kapoor made her acting debut in 2007 in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Saawariya opposite Ranbir Kapoor and subsequently featured in the offbeat film like Delhi-6. She earned her first commercial success with the romantic comedy I Hate Luv Storys followed by films like Aisha and Mausam.
NOW WHAT?
Sonam Kapoor has started exposing than ever before. The latest trend of skin show that she has adopted for photo shoots seems to be not a problem for her as this year she has come up with her fifth provoking shoot to get on top of most desirable list.
I don’t look like Reena Roy Sonakshi definitely shares a striking resemblance with Reena Roy and when she was asked about that, she refused to acknowledge any similarity in the way they look and thinks that if there is anyone she does resemble, it is her mother Poonam Sinha and not Reena Roy.
What did I just hear?
pick of the week
In an indirect swipe at Bahujan Samajwadi Party (BSP) leader Mayawati, Rahul Gandhi said she was not allowing other Dalit leaders to rise. He said, “The Dalit community needs the escape velocity of Jupiter to achieve success.” He dwelt on astronomy to explain the phenomenon of escape velocity -- or the speed that an object needs to be travelling to break free of a planet or moon’s gravity.
The number of millionaires in the country is expected to jump over 66% at 3.02 lakh by 2018, even as 94% of India’s population has wealth below $10,000, according to a global wealth report. At present, the country has 1.82 lakh millionaires, Credit Suisse Research Institute said in its fourth Annual Global Wealth Report 2013 released recently. As the world’s largest democracy with a strong federal structure and vibrant markets, Indian wealth has seen rapid growth since 2000. Wealth per adult has risen by 135% from $2000 in 2000 to $4,700 in 2013 at an average annual rate of 8%.
Kamur of the week To subscribe type GPLUS and send it to 56677
DUMB DRIVERS who think they are the smartest ones out there. There will be at least one of these in each traffic jam, who will try to overtake everyone from the wrong side and end up making a mess of it. Somebody stop them!
Printed & Published by Sunit Jain on behalf of Insight Brandcom Pvt. Ltd. and Printed at Arkashish Publications (P) Ltd., Katahbari, Garchuk, Guwahati and Published at H/No. 34, K. C. Choudhury Road, Chatribari, Guwahati - 781008, Editor: Koushik Hazarika.