Metro Mart April 2016

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METRO mart Volume 5 Issue 9

T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M

Kerela Tourism Campaign wins

GOLDEN CITY GATE AWARD

Happy Vishu Meenabharani- Opportunity to Worship Divine Goddess www.metromartdaily.com

KTDC Beach Resort Bakel Aprilat2016

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METRO mart T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M

Gurucharanam Saranam

Lotus Parnasala Santhigiri Ashram Santhigiri P.O, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India-695 589 communication@santhigiriashram.org www.santhigiriashram.org +91 471 2419313, 8606083000, 8606084000

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METRO mart T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M

Vishu is the time to celebrate a new beginning. Vishu promises of a new beginning and a fresh start. May this Vishu also bring new hopes to your life!

The land of Kerala is not just about backwaters, beaches and authentic cuisine. Millions of pilgrims flock to this tiny state in south India to seek spiritual blessings too. Pilgrimage tourism in Kerala has become a major source of attraction and revenue – whether it is Sabarimala, or the ancient Jewish synagogues in Fort Kochi or the Pooram festival at Thrissur which is the most colorful festival of Kerala celebrated each year during the summer season of April-May.

Foreword

Dear Readers,

Meenabharani is the opportunity to worship Divine Goddess.

It is the second great annual festival in the temple of Vellanadu Meenabharani celebrated for ten days. It is believed that on the tenth day the benevolent Goddess appears and showers her blessings on the devotees.

Kerala Tourism’s new campaign on responsible tourism has bagged the prestigious Golden City Gate Award at the world’s leading travel trade show, ITB in the German capital of Berlin.

As part of introducing adventure sports in Kovalam, Tourism department has joined hands with Kerala Adventure Tourism Promotion Society to introduce underwater adventure sport, the ‘Bond Safari’.

The Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) has got its first beach resort in the Malabar region with the opening of the Bekal Beach Camp at Bekal in Kasaragod district.

That is the religious, adventure and techie spirit of Kerala – bursting with joy and thrill.

Siji Nair Managing Editor & Director

Online readers across the world will be able to get a close look at ‘God’s Own Country’ with Kerala Tourism taking to Kindle to provide a peep into its jaw dropping destinations. In a first of its kind by a state tourism board, five richly illustrated and informed books on Kerala’s major tourism destinations are now available on Kindle.

Stay tuned until the next issue for fresh, interesting and innovative updates.

Warm Regards, Siji Nair

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April 2016

CONTENTS

Volume 5 Issue 9 April 2016 www.metromartdaily.com

Read our e-edition-www.issuu.com/metromart

Annual Subscription Rs 400 Publisher Hari Shanker hari@martinfotech.in

Managing Editor & Director Siji Nair sijicn@gmail.com Sub Editor

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Kerala: The Land of Spiritual Consolation

18

Meenabharani-opportunity to worship Divine Goddess

28

Goethe-Zentrum – The Bridge To The Opportunities In Germany

34

Top Wine Cocktails To Serve In Your Party

36

Top 7 Tips To Save Money On Your Wedding

38

The Mantra of Social Media: “Engagement” & “Patience”

46

Hilton Garden Inn Announces Easter Festivities

52

Bond Safari Kovalam an underwater adventure

V. Viswanath

Editorial Assistant

Ampili Nair

Creative Assistant

Sayan Chaudhuri

GM Sales

Sibu Nair

Business Development Manager Ratheesh Kumar

Baiju Jayakumar

Corporate Office:Metro Mart Thiruvananthapuram MERA 44, Eanthivila Lane, Murinjapalam, Medical College PO,Thiruvananthapuram Kerala 695 011 Tel: 00919995139933 / 9947733339 Email: metromart.tvm@gmail.com Bangalore Office:No:217, 3B Main, OMBR Layout Bangalore – 560 043 Tel: +919038000711 Email: info@martinfotech.in Kolkata Office 313, Dorikal Byelane, Jheel Avenue, Dum Dum Road, Kolkata – 700 074, India Pune Office C-507, Wisteria Fortune Survey No: 95/2, Near New Poona Bakery Wakad, Pune - 411057

Published, Edited and Printed by Hari Shanker A G and Owned by Haritha Media Pvt Ltd and Printed by him at SB Press Private Limited, Statue, Trivandrum 695001 and Published from Tharangam, Kodunganoor Post, Trivandrum 695013 Metro Mart is a monthly journal published from Trivandrum. Views and opinions expressed in the journal are not necessarily those of the Publishers.

Metro Mart reserves the right to use the information published here in any manner whatsoever. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information published in this edition, neither the Publisher no any of its employees accept any responsibilities for any errors or omissions. © All Rights Reserved 10 April 2016

RNI No: KERENG/2011/40037

METRO mart T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M

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April 2016

COVER STORY

Kerala: The Land of Spiritual Consolation

There is so much more to Kerala than its backwaters, ayurveda, sun-kissed sands, beaches and cuisine. What intoxicate the travellers are the age-old temples, churches, mosques, and all that makes Kerala a sacred abode.

Anju Budhiraja

Pilgrimage tourism is yet another facet of Kerala that is making news. The southern state has quite a number of pilgrimage centers such as temples and shrines that are a major source of attraction to tourists. The coconut land has many sacred temples, particularly those in Thiruvananthapuram alone that makes Kerala most visited amongst the religious people.

Whatever be the nature of the pilgrimage place, Kerala

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has the perfect backdrop in terms of a pure and pristine atmosphere that helps in invoking the Almighty through participation in temple festivals, devotional songs, and engaging oneself in multifarious temple activities.

Religious Places in Kerala Animals particularly elephants play a pivotal role in the holy worship and religious ceremonies at the temples and other

sacred places in Kerala. This happens almost throughout the year when devotees throng to the religious places to participate in the annual fairs and festivals that happen.

In Kerala, there are number of pilgrimage centres pertaining to each worshipping community, be it Hindus, Muslims, Jains or Christians. This universality despite diversity in religion is an endearing aspect

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of Kerala. Some of the popular destinations comprising temples, churches and mosques are Guruvayoor,Sabarimala, Chottanikkara, Attukal, Bharananganam, Malayattoor, Maramon, Parappanangadi, etc where thousands throng to pay obeisance to their deities.

Kerala also happens to house ancient Jewish synagogues in Fort Kochi which is an island town.

The History and Avenues of Worship The holy face of the 20th century Kerala cannot be written without giving due recognition to the contributions made by Sri Narayana Guru and Chattampi Swamikal, the two great spiritual teachers of the present century. In the present day thousands

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visit Vallikkavu, a small coastal village in Kollam district to see and hear Mata Amritanandamayi, who provides spiritual consolation to all those who seek it.

Every religious place has a sense of value and significance attached to it. The tourism industry in the state of Kerala is making valuable gains out of selling this fascination in the minds of people, both as places of tourist interest and as places of worship. Every year millions of pilgrims visit Sabarimala in the month of NovemberJanuary, which is when the pilgrims come in endless numbers.

Sabarimala is not the only place of attraction for the spiritual crowd. The Pooram festival at Thrissur

is yet another spiritual and a socio-cultural event festival which is the most colourful festival of Kerala.

Celebrated during the summer season of AprilMay every year, Thrissur Pooram largely comprises of a procession of richly caparisoned elephants from various neighbouring temples.

Another important temple in Kerala is the Sri Krishna temple at Guruvayur which is popularly known as Dakshina Madura.

All major temples in the state celebrate yearly festivals which usually last around nine days. The colourful procession of elephants accompanied by vadyam and melam which are traditional temple percussion music is a usual sight.

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Now why leave the Christians behind? The festivals in the churches stand apart too. Christianity, it is believed, has a history of 2000 years in Kerala as Christian disciple St Thomas came here to spread the faith in 52 AD. The saint had built seven churches in the state, which are still considered as the main centre of Christianity in the country. With a good Christian population, Kerala celebrates almost all Christian festivals on a grand scale.

The church at Niranam, dedicated to St Mary

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holds pride of place. The church celebrates its main festival on August 15 and the birthday of St Mary is celebrated on a grand scale on September 8. The Church also celebrates the feast of St Thomas on July 3. Among Church festivals the Perunal at the Edappally church is the most popular one. The festival begins on April 23.

A unique phenomenon associated with Christian faith in Kerala is undoubtedly the Maramon convention. It is held every year during February on the vast sand bed of the

river Pamba, below the Kozhencherry bridge and has the largest Christian gathering in Asia. Christians from all over the country and abroad assemble here to listen to the word of God as read and expounded by leaders of Christian thought.

Similarly, Islam also has many celebrations in Kerala, for instance, the Prophet’s birthday.

The spiritual tradition of Kerala is very rich and eclectic that welcomes everybody with a warm heart.

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trueberry.in

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COVER STORY

Meenabharani-opportunity

to worship Divine Goddess

The Divine Mother Adiparashakthi manifests herself in various names and forms to establish virtue, save the good, and to show the light of righteousness. Vellanad Sree Bhagavathy is considered an incarnation of Adiparashakthi V. Viswanath

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The legends behind Vellanad Bhagavathy Temple are several.

Once of which is that the Divine Mother took this incarnation to kill the Asura(evil king) Dharikan who ruled the three worlds. The demon Darika had received a boon from Brahma that Darika would not be defeated by any man born in the 14 worlds.

This made him arrogant and he conquered the whole world and even gods. This made the sage Narada to request God Shiva to bring about an end to Darika. Lord Shiva opened his third eye and produced Kali, who was to kill Darika.

The incarnation from the third eye of the Lord Paramashiva was named as Sree Kandakali. After killing the Asura, the Devi reached this place and took rest here. During the earlier years, poojas were conducted for Sree Bhadrakali. Later, when the poojas were handed over to the Brahmins, Bhadrakali pooja was changed to Bhagavathi pooja. It is believed that with the change in nature of poojas, the character of the Devi too softened from Kali (denoting fierceness) to Bhagavathy (denoting gentleness).

Even though in the beginning poojas were conducted only on Fridays www.metromartdaily.com

April 2016

and later also on Tuesdays, for the last several years the poojas are conducted daily.

Another legend which is more widely accepted and believed is Vellanattamma – the incarnation of Adhiparaksakthi - after killing the Asura Darikan appeared in the dream of a landlord and instructed him that she was in a seashore village family at Thiruvallom. She said to the landlord that if her idol is erected and consecrated in a temple at Vellanad, the place will be prosperous ever after. Accordingly, a temple was constructed in Vellanad and the Devi is worshipped.

There are several rituals conducted in the temple during the annual 10-day festival. Dikku Bali, Kalam Kaval, Thookam, Urul, Pongala, Paranettu, Nilathil poru, Kuthiyottam, Thottum pattu, and Thalapoli are some of the significant ones.

The rituals start with Kappu Kettu and Thottam Pattu where Kannagi Charitham or the epic of Kannagi is sung in hymns. The hymns invoke the slaying of the king of Madurai by Kannagi.

The festival celebrates the triumph of good over evil.

The epic is sung during the festival days with stage of the epic being rendered on consecutive days.

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Dikku Bali is where the Goddess Kali is searching for Darika in all four dikku or directions. In Kalamkaval, the search by the Goddess is enacted or performed by the chief priest. He carries the idol of the goddess

on his head and dances in a totally entranced way. This goes on until he becomes unconscious. At this performace, he adorns the thiruvabharanam or traditional gold ornaments of the goddess. This

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April 2016

consists of Kappu, vanki, odyanam, necklaces such as paalakka, pichi mottu, muthu, etc.). It is believed that the priest can perform this only with the blessings of the Devi enshrined in the temple.

Pongala is conducted by the devotees at the temple premises to pay obeisance to the Goddess. Over the years the number of devotees offering Pongala at this shrine has grown.

The devotion with which the women conduct the ritual is unmatched. So great is their devotion to Goddess Bhagavathy that they tend to be entranced in their prayers to Bhagavathy.

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The fight between Goddess Kali and the demon Darika is believed to have begun in the sky. This is enacted at night on a tall stage of about 100 feet height. This ritual is called Paranettu.

After Paranettu, the fight ensues on land. This is

termed Nilathilpporu. In the end, it is seen that the demon asks for forgiveness and at the end of the seventh fight, the Goddess takes Darika’s head and visits Lord Shiva. This marks the end of the fight between good and evil where the good triumphs.

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April 2016

Vandiyottam is performed as a trial run before Thookkam. This also ensures that the cart and the bow used to carry men and children are functioning effectively. This is a very popular event.

Another major event during the festival is Urul. The Urul or ‘rolling through the ground’ is carried out by devotees after taking vows of penance and fasting for several days before the ceremony. The Urul devotees are accompanied by different folk art performances and musical bands such as Vadyamelam, Nagaswaram, etc. The Urul devotees roll through the ground for long distances to reach the temple premises and pay obeisance to the Goddess.

Kuthiyottam - Boys below the age of 13 years perform this offering. These boys represents the wounded soldiers of the Goddess Mahishasura Mardini. These boys receive Prasadam from the temple priest and start a seven-day penance which enables them to purify their mind and body. They stay at the temple, sleep on the floor, and observe strict diet restrictions. Every morning and evening they prostrate before the goddess 108 times.

Thalappoli – Young girls

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April 2016

dressed in traditional attire holds Thalappoli. A thalam or plate is held with rice, flowers and a lighted lamp.

It is of the belief that the Goddess would be pleased and would give them inward and outward beauty and bless them with health, wealth and happiness.

Thousands of devotees from far and wide reach

the temple to witness the Thookkam ritual. It is believed that the children who undergo this ritual would be blessed with fortune and all illnesses will be cured. The men who carry the children in the bow observe fasting for three days before this ritual and observe strict religious procedures.

Other rituals in this temple festival include Ottam, Poomala, Annadanam, etc.

Vellanad SreeBhagavathy Devi showers blessings on her devotees who follow a righteous path. Her devotees believe that she would listen to their prayers and bless them with peace and prosperity.

Vellanad Sree Bhagavathy Temple Trust Office Bearers 2014-16

K JANNARDHANAN NAIR President

M SUKUMARAN NAIR Secretary

VELLANAD SREEKANTAN Vice President

D BHRAHMADEVAN Jn Secreatary

K DIVAKARAN NAIR Treasurer

Members

Ani Vilayil

P Raveendran Nair

K G Anil Kumar

S Raveendran Nair

S R Anilkumar

V Gireesh Kumar

T Sreekumaran Nair

T Sreekumaran Nair

Thantri : Attuvassery Neelamanayil Brahmasree E.Ganapathi Namboothiri

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N Gopalakrishnan Nair

R Padmakumar

Melsanthi: Brahmasree Payyannoor Narayanan Namboothiri

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EDUCATION

Goethe-Zentrum – The Bridge To The Opportunities In Germany The Goethe-Institut is named after the renowned German scholar Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. It is a non-profit German cultural institution operational worldwide, promoting the study of the German language abroad and encouraging international cultural exchange and relations.

the cosmopolitan German society and culture, fosters knowledge about combining the experience Germany by providing and ideas of its partners information on German culture, society and politics. with cross-cultural expertise, the principle of This includes not only the dialogue and partnership, exchange of films, music, offering support to all theatre, literature, and the those actively involved with like, but also the values of civil society. Goethe cultural Germany and its language and culture. societies and language The Goethe-Institut also

centers have played a central role in the cultural and educational policies of Germany for close to 60 years. The GoetheInstitut draws its material from many sections of

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The Goethe-Institut e.V. is an autonomous body and politically independent. Partners of the institute and its centers are public and private cultural institutions,

the federal states, local authorities and the world of commerce. The GoetheInstitut carefully coordinates its activities with other mediators of cultural and educational foreign policy. The Goethe-Institut has its headquarters in Munich. Its president is Dr. Klaus-Dieter Lehmann, the General Secretary is Mr. Johannes Ebert. Every year the Goethe-Institut offers scholarships to deserving students from foreign countries to go to Germany and participate in higher

METRO mart T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M

levels of German language courses. 
 In India, the institutes are also known as Max Mueller Bhavans in honour of the famous German Indologist Friedrich Max Mueller. In order to expand the reach of the Goethe Institut, smaller centres named Goethe-Zentrum have been introduced a few years ago all around the world.

The Zentrum in Trivandrum was established in the year 2008 and a branch was inaugurated in Kochi on the 23rd of February. Last year alone, approximately 1000 students from Kasargod to Trivandrum came to the Zentrum in Trivandrum to learn German primarily for going to Germany for higher studies and professional reasons.

As per the European Framework of Reference for Languages, the German courses are distributed in

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six levels, namely A1 and A2 (beginners), B1 and B2 (intermediate) and C1 and C2 (advanced).

for B.Tech. M.Tech or even MBBS do not pay any fees at all, but have to have sufficient financial means to meet the living expenses.

1. Higher Studies For Master and Ph.D. When it comes to high-end students the Universities or the German Academic technologies or sciences, Germany is second to none. Exchange Services (DAAD) offers various scholarships A degree from a German to meet these expenses. university is a dream for millions of students across The Master level courses are offered in English the world, including India.

Germany welcomes Indian language. students to its universities ďƒ Employment and that too free of any Opportunities tuition fees! Indian students aspiring to go to Germany Once the students have

April 2016

The first wave of nursing migration from Kerala to Germany started in the 1960s and they could successfully assimilate into the Germany society and their children and grandchildren have become successful examples of a non-German community in Germany and other German-speaking countries like Austria and Switzerland.

Recently, the German Government decided to permit qualified nursing personnel from countries like India to work in Germany. Nursing degree from a recognized University and minimum B2 level German certificate from the Goethe-Insitut are the pre-requisites for this. completed their studies, they get a visa for 1.5 years to search for a job or start their own business in Germany. After getting a job, they can extend this visa for three more years and during this period, they can also apply for a permanent residence visa in Germany.

Knowledge of German Only basic level German knowledge is required for admission to the Master

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studies. But for MBBS and other bachelor studies, the students have to have at least the B2 level, better the C1 level for the medical aspirants.

However, once the students have completed their Masters or Ph.D., it is always better to know German well, in order to get a good job in Germany and get integrated into the social life there.

2. Nursing and Para-medical

3. Doctors The same goes true for the doctors also. They have to, however, have minimum C1 level certificate in German.

Some German hospitals have even started to recruit qualified doctors from Kerala and offer them a bridging course here, before taking them to Germany.

4. Engineers and Software Professionals Germany at present has a huge shortage of skilled

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April 2016

professionals in engineering sectors. IT and other engineering graduates can seek employment opportunities in Germany, if they have basic level knowledge in German.

5. Churches – A tradition of long relationship The churches in Kerala have a very long relationship with Germany. Gundert, Arnos Pathiri or Father Nagel are only a few names to mention here. Even today, hundreds of priests and nuns go to the GoetheZentrum to learn German before they are sent to the German churches.

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Summary: In consideration of all the factors described above and the immense opportunities a country like Germany offers, the current young generation in Kerala stands to win profusely from the advantages offered from learning a new language like German.

Germany, being the economic powerhouse of Europe, but faced with a severe scarcity of skilled professionals and an aging population, invites qualified and competent resources from India. Please note that only the Goethe-

Institut is authorized to conduct and issue the international certifications in German language. With the opening of its branch in Kochi, aspiring learners from Ernakulam and other nearby places are going to benefit from these opportunities. So, why wait any longer?

Since February 2015 we also have a branch in Kochi, in order to meet the ever-increasing demand for learning German. The courses there are highly sought after. The branch also offers courses for children.

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April 2016

DINING

Top Wine Cocktails

To Serve In Your Party

A party without mocktails and cocktails is like a wedding without food.

In the next party don’t limit yourself to pouring straight from the wine bottle, surprise your guests by serving some amazing cocktails using wine. Wine cocktails are gaining popularity as it contains some liquids, fruits, dilutions, infusions, and flavorings.

The complex and the sharp taste of wine cocktails make it an indispensable part of the bars. So, if you are looking to surprise your guests with the party with your cocktail making skills, here are some tasty wine cocktail recipes to try: 1. Red Hot Summer This simple to make but the yummy cocktail is quite famous. Simply combine the three-fourth red wine and one-fourth lemon soda in a glass filled with ice. Stir and garnish it with a lime wheel. than this. Mix apple juice

glass. For garnishing, add

and few mint leaves in a

a sprig of mint. This wine

If you are looking for a

cocktail shaker and add

cocktail is sure to win you

refreshing cocktail, then

some wine and ice. Shake

appreciation from guests

there is nothing better

it well and strain it into a

of all taste and age.

2. Pink Julep and Apple

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METRO mart T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M

3. Mini Mango Moscato This sweet yet refreshing wine cocktail is a perfect accompaniment to the appetizers. It is quite simple to make this cocktail. Combine 4 oz. of Moscato, 2 oz. white run and 2 oz. mango juice with ice and pour into cocktail glass. Add some lime and garnish it with a lime wheel. For better taste, use frozen mango puree to give it a refreshing twist.

4. Red Stiletto If you are hosting the all-girls party, then this wine cocktail is sure to be liked by all. Fairly simple to make this wine

Combine half oz. sugar

oz. vanilla bean syrup, one

cocktail is fun and gives

syrup, 1 oz. Redtree

oz. dark rum and the half

a subtle taste. Combine

Moscato, 1 oz. gin, 1 oz.

oz. pineapple juice in the

3 maraschino cherries,

lemon juice and a half oz.

shaker full of ice. Shake

3 oz. sutter Home Sweet

Peach Schnapps in the

it well and pour it into

Red wine, lime juice

cocktail shaker filled with

the glass. Don’t forget to

and-and 1 oz. white run

ice. Pour the cocktail into

garnish it with lime.

in the shaker and pour

the glass and it is ready to

into a glass filled with ice.

be served.

Garnish it with chopped strawberries.

5. Princess of the Hive

6. The Star Gazer This refreshing and yummy cocktail will surely

Simple yet impressive

impress your guests. To

this wine cocktail is sure

make this cocktail simply

to impress your guests.

mix 2 oz. chardonnay, half

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So, for the next party, make a splash with these six wine cocktails and lip smacking food. You need not worry about going wrong in the food choices with these wines, as almost every appetizer will go with these wines.

April 2016

FESTIVITY

Top 7 Tips To Save Money On Your Wedding It will not be wrong to say that planning a wedding is a big responsibility. Though it is fun, the amount of stress and anxiety that comes with it is huge. There are hundreds of decisions that need to be made keeping the budget in consideration.

Yashvi Dhingra

Right from the choice of venue, decoration, menu, gifts, clothes, and accessories, everything requires serious efforts.

Amid all the excitement, most of us tend to overshoot the budget.

But with little care and planning, it is not difficult to adhere to the budget.

To make this task easier for you, here are some tips to save money on wedding festivities: 1. Limit the list of invitees When it comes to making the invitee list, it is best to be a little conservative.

The wedding is a private affair, and thus, the list should only include the

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close family and friends.

For your office colleagues or acquaintances, you can arrange a small get-together after the wedding or invite them home for a dinner party.

decorate it with temporary pergola, seasonal flowers, and candles. One extra tip, by choosing a venue closer to home, you will be able save the travelling cost and time.

2. Choose the venue carefully

3. Prefer seasonal flowers

It will not be wrong to say that the wedding venue often drives the cost of the wedding. In the peak wedding season, the dedicated wedding reception halls or country clubs are expensive, thus to save some real money look for some inexpensive facilities or offbeat locations. You can even rent out a garden and

It is a trend these days to go for an exotic and expensive variety of flowers. Rather go for something traditional or even better the seasonal flowers when it comes to floral decoration as it gives you a chance to bring the season in your event.

Also, seasonal flowers are comparatively cheaper and easily available.

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4.Table decorations There was a time when only flowers were used as the table decoration, but with the changing trends, it is now replaced with the floating candles or etchedglass vase centerpiece with a single brightly colored flower or origami centerpiece. These table decoration ideas are not only cheap but also look great.

5. Limited Menu Carefully plan the menu and go for traditional items than going for the exotic ones. Also, when it comes to cake and wine, don’t go for expensive options. Rather consider the candy bar or cupcake station or live counters as they are loved by the guests.

6. Save on wedding favors As wedding favors are important as they leave a long lasting impression of the wedding festivities, you need to choose them carefully. To save money look for affordable wedding favors like chocolates, candles, plants, personalized mint tins, and many more.

7. Save on wedding dresses Wedding dress eats a considerable portion of www.metromartdaily.com

your wedding budget as most of us tend to get emotionally carried away.

Curb the temptation of going for expensive dresses, rather look for the ones that you will be able to wear later to your friends or cousins wedding

too. There are several websites and stores that have affordable and lucrative wedding dress deals.

With these seven tips, you will surely be able to organize a memorable yet budget-friendly wedding.

April 2016

TECH MART

The Mantra of Social Media: “Engagement” & “Patience” Most of the SMEs believe that social media is not their cup of tea as it’s only useful for large enterprises who have a six digit marketing budget and can deploy a dedicated team for it. It’s nothing but a MYTH! Small Business have higher chances to succeed if they use social media properly.

Vipul Priyank

It’s 2016, a brand new

McDonalds or KFC or any

best social networking

year and perhaps a best

retail giants like Walmart

platforms based on their

time to burst few of the

or Tesco …or any company audience, and by applying

myths which exist from a

from any industry. Social

all the best practices they

long time. It’s a fact that

media has helped these

ensured that they get the

almost every big company

big companies to grow

most out of the social

is leveraging social media

multifold with a rapid

media.

nowadays, you take any

speed. These companies

name be it a food giant like

have tactically chosen the

While the HUGE success

SME are the part of the growing IT bubble in 2016. Organic, Interested, Interactive is the call out of Sales Team of every SME to their Marketing teams.

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April 2016

METRO mart T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M

Social Media “The need of the HOUR for SME’s”

of Social Media has

have a six digit marketing

encouraged the big names

budget and can deploy a

to invest more in their

dedicated team for it. It’s

social media strategy, it

nothing but a MYTH! We

has put the SMEs (small

believe that small business

and large enterprises)

have higher chances to

in a state of confusion,

succeed if they use social

where they feel enticed

media properly.

to use social media to grow their business but not convinced enough to use it either! Most of the SMEs believe that social media is not their cup of tea as it’s only useful for large enterprises who

Check out few of the key benefits of Social Media for SMEs: By using global platforms like Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Google + etc., an SME can take

his business global and promote internationally that too with a much lesser cost which requires in traditional marketing.

By having a presence on social media, an SME can improve its customer service, product and service development, which will ultimately give the “competitive advantage”.

Social media can help an SME in building strong relationships with their

“Social Media not only exposes SMEs to the world but it also helps in generating quality leads by organic efforts, which helps in shaping up a strong pipeline and also in increasing the revenue too.”

Aman Vij Founder, DataNurds www.metromartdaily.com

April 2016

“Digital Natives” is what I believe the new generation of buyers for SME’s. It’s a proven fact that images grab attention much quicker and convey messages more effectively. In today’s era, we can engage the audience by inditing most creative and interactive design to keep their interest alive in the offerings!”

Rishi Sankhla Creative Artist, DataNurds

existing customers

everyone always thinks

who engage on social

and if such customers

how to generate

media and link their

recommend the

traffic to his website?

websites smartly, can

product or services on

By using social media,

expect higher and quality

any of the platforms

an SME can boost its

traffic.

it goes globally. With

website traffic too! The

having a limited

success and popularity

budget, social media

of social media has

can be the one of the

forced google and

most affordable and

other search engines

effective platform to

to include social

advertise. While setting

signals into their SEO

a business website,

algorithm. Hence, SMEs

With real time interactions with customers, social media can also help the SMEs in improving and advancing the customer support.

They will be having social media pages where customers can put inquires, feedback, questions and concerns on which their customer support team can work on. Social media can help SMEs in managing their brand reputation and identifying opportunity, as it’s been a proven fact that reviews, commentary and recommendations influence a customer’s buying decision.

By engaging with

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SME has to come out of the “Cargo Cult” of sticking to age old methods of Demand Generation. Twitter and Linkedin are the eyes and ears of buyers in 2016. And, the icing on the cake is that Social Media channel delivers these inbound leads at a 50% lower cost, so getting these leads into the funnel is cheaper.

And in my book, more and cheap is good. Wouldn’t it be? So, “Blog, Tweet, Post & Repeat.”

Akshat Akhavi Market Research Analyst, DataNurds

customers directly can negate the negative commentary, helps in getting insights about the targeted audience needs which can be useful in converting the prospects into customers.

Choosing the right platform is of the most important factors of success in Social Media, be it a large enterprise or a SME. To step up in the world of Social Media, we would advise to pick one or two social media platforms depending upon your target audience. If you are B2B company, we recommend to use Twitter and LinkedIn and

to use.

Passionate & Creative

Two factors, one

Team that continuously

must keep in mind

works towards helping

about Social Media

in delivering by being

are “Engagement”

flexible and adaptive

and “Patience”.

according to the needs.

Having presence on a

Doing the same thing

social media platform

over and over, yet

will not make any

expecting different

impact, engaging

results is what drives

with audience is must.

team to be the Genius

Also, be patient for

behind the scenes. Their

any result on social

prime focus is always

media, usually SMEs

upon building blocks

get into social media

for any organization,

with a mindset of

which are STRATEGY,

getting quick business

PEOPLE, & TECHNOLOGY,

from it. Instant results

which help in faster

never happen on social

selling. They believe in

media. So, Social Media

starting the journey with

can do magic, however

Brainstorming sessions

it’s not a magic

and understanding the

wand which can turn

needs & business goals,

fortunes overnight!”

and also our mantra is to

if you are more focused

The author Vipul

on B2C then Twitter and

Priyank is Social

Facebook would be best

Media Specialist with

www.metromartdaily.com

DataNurds - an Energetic,

MEET, BEAT and EXCEED targets. You can also follow them on twitter @DataNurds April 2016

AWARD

God’s Own Country’s Responsible Tourism a winner at ITB-Berlin Kerala Tourism campaign wins Golden City Gate Award

Kerala Tourism’s new campaign on responsible tourism has bagged the prestigious Golden City Gate Award at the world’s leading travel trade show , ITB in the German capital of Berlin.

Titled ‘New Worlds’, the

communication, at the

multimedia campaign

Internationale Tourismus-

containing three short

Börse Berlin (ITB-Berlin)

films directed by reputed

2016.

Malayalam filmmaker Anwar Rasheed won the silver prize of this year’s Das Golden Stadttor or Golden City Gate, dubbed the Oscar of Tourism

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April 2016

Wolfgang Jo Huschert, President of the Jury of the “Golden City Gate Award presented the award to Abraham George,

President, Kerala Travel Mart.

Conceived and scripted

by Stark Communications, Kerala Tourism’s creative and brand management agency, the films tell heartwarming stories from one of the world’s successfully

METRO mart T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M

implemented Responsible Tourism campaigns.

Kerala Tourism had earlier won the Ulysses Prize of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) for its contribution as a global leader to sustainable tourism.

The ‘New Worlds’ campaign was launched

‘New Worlds’ portray

internationally by UNWTO

in cultural performances,

the importance of such

Secretary General Taleb

demonstrate the vision

Responsible Tourism

Rifai at the World Travel

that when the world

initiatives, which have

Mart in London .

comes to Kerala, new

led to several life-

worlds open up.

The award is a significant achievement for Kerala,

changing stories that have become the heart

This is as true for local

of the campaign – an

communities, for whom

affirmation of what

jobs are being created

Responsible Tourism

and whose traditional

can do for the traveller,

ways of living are

the local community,

being preserved, as for

traditions and nature.

travellers.

mind. Tourism policies

Real people have been

The films attempt

in Kerala, tempered

cast instead of actors

to present in a real,

by an understanding

and models in the films,

authentic environment,

of the uniqueness of

and the stories are set

the destination, have

a set of true stories of

in the same locations

created a positive impact

transformation and

in Kerala that they

on the larger interests

preservation involving

actually took place.

of the people, on the

tourism and the local

The films, which show

destinations natural

communities, inspiring

tourists visiting local

treasures and on the

travellers, destinations

communities, sharing in

vibrant culture of the

and tourism organisations

home-made meals, and

state.

to travel further on the

watching and engaging

road to sustainability.

which has committed itself to practicing global tourism in a responsible manner with the interests of the local people and the planet in

www.metromartdaily.com

April 2016

MANAGMENT

Overcoming Procrastination – Why Leaders should get Proactive Leadership is supposed to transform companies in ways so that they are better able to meet future challenges. Too often, however, leaders fail in making the right decisions when it matters, as they lack a pro-active attitude.

Pavan Sriram Do you ever wonder what kind of an efficient leader you could be if you could stop procrastinating?

Faster decision making?

Better work/life balance?

Completed deadlines? These are all distinct possibilities, if you are able to dive into tasks without hesitation.

Procrastination stands for leader’s tendency to delay making important decisions while executing the less important ones.

Procrastination is irrational in nature as it does not help in facilitating leadership to take place. In fact, leaders who delay decisions or put off actions that need to be

taken are generally less successful.

From an organisational point of view, procrastinating leaders will negatively influence all levels of the organisation and install status-quo thinking among everyone involved. They promote a kind of status-quo thinking among their team members and other employees.

So what causes leaders to fall prey to procrastination tendencies? a) Care Too Much About What Others Think - It happens that sometimes

they want to impress others so much that when given a task they feel so much pressure that it delays their work. b) Striving For The Perfect - It sounds weird, but perfectionism can be what causes procrastination. Most leaders may want to strive for perfectionism so much that they feel disheartened even before they begin.

This is because a goal that seems unachievable can be demoralizing. c) Doing Things Totally New To Them - You need to embark on a totally new project and you have

Procrastination Is A Thief Of Time

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Sheryl Sandberg in her role as COO of Facebook represents a kind of leader who is able to overcome uncertainties and turn it into a goal-oriented leadership style. Her leadership style is characterised by a high level of energy and passion. Due to her relentless optimism and looking forward attitude she is able to see opportunities in every challenge

no idea at all on how to tackle it. The first reaction is to procrastinate. The uncertainty of the result of this task causes leaders to delay commencing the project. d) The Lack Of Confidence Another common cause of procrastination is the lack of confidence in completing a task. It can be real that leaders lack the skills but sometimes it may be a perception. Because of this leaders may totally avoid completing the task.

In order to develop a proactive leadership style that is not hindered by the process of procrastination, it is imperative that leaders develop strategies to encounter both forces from within and outside themselves, to practice these strategies and finally act upon them. It is this kind of execution that will make you authentic in the things you do. Being recognised

as an authentic decision maker in turn will create conditions facilitating proactivity.

Knowing how badly procrastination can hurt your leadership, these three simple steps can help you rid yourself of procrastination.

1. Keep a checklist of what needs to be done: Procrastination is easy. It will find any way it can to slip into your life. One of the easiest ways to kill it is to keep a list of tasks that need to be completed.

Having a visual reminder of your daily tasks and long-term goals keeps them fresh in your mind.

You’re also able to see the progress you’ve made as you check them off of the list.

2. Whenever possible, take action immediately: We procrastinate because we know there’s time to

do the work later. But what would happen if we decided that we could clear out a task immediately after receiving it? Jumping right into the work takes away any excuses you may be able to create later. Especially if it’s an easy task to forget 3. Decide if it’s something you can delegate: Sometimes we think delegation is part of procrastination. But it’s not. Delegation allows you to assign a task to another, competent team member who may be able to act on it faster than you are able to.

This clears your smaller tasks and gets the job done.

I look forward to hear from you at pavan@ittige.com on how you are making proactive decisions that shape the future of your business in better ways than before and in this process creating trustworthy and sustainable relationships with team-members and clients.

Pavan Sriram is the CEO of ITTIGE Learning, a performance-based training company that works with organisations to improve learning outcomes. www.ittige.com

Overcome Procrastination And Be A Bold Decision-Maker.

www.metromartdaily.com

April 2016

DINE OUT

Hilton Garden Inn Announces Easter Festivities

Garden Grille Will Host an Elaborate Easter Brunch and Dinner with Exclusive Easter Activities Hilton Garden Inn Trivandrum announced its latest promotion ‘Easter Sunday’. Available at Garden Grille restaurant on Sunday, March 27, 2016, it sets the stage for a memorable day with family and friends to celebrate this festive holiday.

A variety of mouthwatering dishes capturing an exceptional feast of flavors has been created solely for these special occasions which includes Braised Turkey, Chilli Tenderloin, Tandoori Kebabs, Seafood Options, Velvety Soups, and Salad Bars as well as live cooking stations. In addition, guests will be able to enjoy an array of Cold Meat Platter, Cheese Platter, Breads and dessert varieties.

person; exclusive Kids

Extending the Easter

Celebrate Easter with

buffet at INR 700 plus

cheer, Hilton Garden

a special non-alcoholic

taxes. The sumptuous

Inn Trivandrum

buffet priced at INR

Easter Sunday brunch

is also hosting a

1400 plus taxes;

& dinner is available at

Cocktail training class

alcoholic buffet at INR

Garden Grille on lobby

conducted by our

1700 plus taxes and

level from 12.30 pm to

bartenders; a separate

sparkling wine buffet

3.30 pm and 7 pm to 11

barbeque station along

at INR 2200 plus taxes

pm respectively.

with a bar counter

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METRO mart T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M

near the pool side; unlimited beverages and homemade snacks at an additional INR 1200 plus taxes for the Sundowners relaxing in the pool. Children are encouraged to indulge their creative whims at the Kids zone, which has access to Animated Movies, Painting Stations, Play area, Magic Show and more.

www.metromartdaily.com

April 2016

METRO FOCUS

Kerala Tourism Goes Kindle With Destinations First state tourism board to come out with Kindle version of destination books Online readers across the world will be able to get a close look at ‘God’s Own Country’ with Kerala Tourism taking to Kindle to provide a peep into its jaw dropping destinations.

In a first of its kind by a state tourism board, five richly illustrated and informed books on Kerala’s major tourism destinations are now available on Kindle, the leading internet site and

swathe of enchanting green, are Kerala and the Spice Routes, Silent Valley National Park, Periyar Tiger Reserve, Eravikulam National Park and Parambikulam Tiger Reserve.

a favourite with e-readers

technology to provide information about Kerala and destinations, the state tourism department has taken a step further to appeal to the intellect and aesthetics of the discerning global traveller.

All the books are products of months of research and to choose from. contain pictures taken by top professionals in nature The five books, explaining and wild life photography.

Kerala’s rich tapestry of

The Kerala Tourism’s

history and its natural

tourism and travel

with over a million books

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April 2016

As a pioneer in using

national and international award-winning website (www.keralatourism. org) is one of the leading

METRO mart T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M

www.metromartdaily.com

April 2016

websites in the world visited by millions of people. Kerala Tourism Facebook page, in English and German, is not only a medium for information about the state, but also a much-loved interaction site among the fans of ‘God’s Own Country’.

Kerala Tourism is also the first tourism board in the country to webcast a classical dance performance of Theyyam live for the global audience.

Kerala and the Spice Routes, which retraces milestones in human civilisation spanning continents, is a rewind to the past and a peek into the layers of the people’s sense of adventure and thirst for new experiences.

The book narrates the rich multiculturalism of Kerala more than twomillennia ago by taking the readers through the Malabar coast that was the starting point for Kerala’s spice trade with the rest of the world.

With the help of arresting photographs, Kerala and the Spice Routes talks

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April 2016

about the history of races that touched Kerala’s shores, the landing of traders and the synergies that worked to create a rich social fabric.

The other books from Kerala Tourism’s new Sanctuary for the Soul series of books— Silent Valley National Park, Periyar Tiger Reserve, Eravikulam National Park and Parambikulam Tiger Reserve — are a treatise on the people’s links with the nature, portrayed with conservation and the need to protect forests in mind.

These books lead the reader through the rhythms of the wild, alerting each to the wonders of the nature and the harmony of the jungle, offering a rare opportunity to experience the tropical green coming alive.

Kerala’s national parks and reserves are an open

invite to the nature lover and the tourist alike. The books are an enticing read.

They contain scintillating photographs and fascinating descriptions.

The books are not only a demonstration of state’s rich natural diversity, but also an attempt to create willing participants in forest and wildlife conservation and protection.

METRO mart T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M

www.metromartdaily.com

April 2016

TRAVEL MART

Bond Safari Kovalam an underwater adventure

As part of introducing adventure sports in Kovalam, Tourism department has joined hands with Kerala Adventure Tourism Promotion Society to introduce underwater adventure sport called the Bond Safari.

Bond Safari offers a unique diving experience to anyone without any of the rigors required by the typical diving. At first you will be given a small class followed by diving suits. Then you will be taken to the dive site where there will be abundant sea life. Upon arrival to the dive site, you can start your incredible underwater adventure.Don’t worry a professional diver will be present all time.

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METRO mart T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M

The self-propelled, eco-

scooter.

dry inside the bubble. It’s

friendly electric scooter

Underwater submarine

completely safe.

will lead you effortlessly

scooters work on the bell

Each submarine adventure

underwater water so you

theory. Remember back

costs Rs. 6,000 for adults

can enjoy the magnificent

in science class when you

and Rs. 4,500 for children.

marine life. No diving

would turn a glass upside

Only 12 people can go in

or scuba experience is

down in a bucket of water

one boat, so it’s best to

necessary. Plus there are no

and no water would enter

book in advance. Expect

uncomfortable constraints

the glass? The submarine

each trip to take around

of conventional dive

scooter is based on the

three hours, from Bond

equipment. The underwater same concept. There is

Safari’s office on Beach

scooter can travel up to a

big spherical glass sphere

Road to the sea and back.

maximum speed of 4km/

into which your head will

Shortly, the company will

hour. One can easily control

go and as you descend a

begin proper scuba diving

the movement of the

seal is formed so you are

lessons/trips too.

www.metromartdaily.com

April 2016

HOLIDAY

KTDC Beach Resort at Bakel The Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) has got its first beach resort in the Malabar region with the opening of the Bekal Beach Camp at Bekal in Kasaragod district.

KTDC Managing Director Ali Asgar Pasha formally inaugurated the resort on Sunday.

The resort is housed in two hectares of

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April 2016

land, between the Bekal beach park and the Tsunami park, leased from the Bakel Resort Development Corporation (BRDC) for 25 years.

The KTDC has thus joined the major hospitality majors at Bekal. “Knock-down� technology had been used for the

METRO mart T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M

construction of the property by the KTDC in view of the close proximity to sea and to adhere to the Coastal Regulation Zone norms. Earlier, the property was used as tented camping site.

Out of the 20 seafacing cabanas being set up at an estimated cost of Rs.5.7 crore, six are ready for commercial operations and guests. Cabanas that resemble tent offer the guests a spectacular view of the Bekal fort and surrounding areas. The premises have been landscaped and the layout has been done in such a way that the guests can have morning or evening walk through the beaches. The children’s park adjacent to the resort is an added feature.

The tariff of the seafacing cabanas for one day is Rs.2,500 plus tax on bed and breakfast basis, according to a spokesman of the KTDC. www.metromartdaily.com

STATEMENT ABOUT OWNERSHIP AND HIS PARTICULARS ABOUT THE NEWSPAPER INDUSTRIAL BUSINESS MART (Form IV – See Rule – 8) 1. Place of Publication

: Thiruvananthapuram

2. Periodicity of its Publication : Monthly 3. Printer’s Name Whether Citizen of India Address Thiruvananthapuram - 695013

: Hari Shanker A G : Yes : Tharangam, Kodunganoor Post

4. Publisher’s Name Whether Citizen of India Address Thiruvananthapuram - 695013

: Hari Shanker A G : Yes : Tharangam, Kodunganoor Post

5. Printer’s Name Whether Citizen of India Address Thiruvananthapuram - 695013

: Hari Shanker A G : Yes : Tharangam, Kodunganoor Post,

6. Names and addresses of individual who own the newspaper & partners or shareholders holding more than one percent of total capital:- Hari Shanker A G, Tharangam, Kodunganoor Post, Thiruvananthapuram - 695013 I Hari Shanker A G, hereby declare that the particulars given above are true to the best of my Knowledge and belief.

Dated : 1st March 2015

Sd/- (Publisher)

April 2016

Ambulance 108

BSNL Land Line: 155300 BSNL Mobile: 0471-155300

Fire Station 101

Anti Piracy Cell 0471 2460001 Mob: 9447210124, 9497981037 E-mail: spapc.pol@kerala. gov.in

Civil Supplies 1967(Toll free no:) 1800-425-1550 (Toll free no:)

Food Adulteration Helpline 1800 425 1125 (Toll free)

Anti-Ragging Helpline 1800 180 5522 (Toll free) Online Enquiry: www.antiragging.in Chief Electoral Officer Control Room: 04712301080 Fax: 0471- 2301081 E-mail: ceo_kerala@eci. gov.in

Coastal Police Alert and State 0471-2556699/ 2320101 Police Monitoring Room Commercial Taxes 1800 425 4777 (Toll free) 9446505527 (Mobile) E-mail: vathelpline@ keralataxes.gov.in Consumer Toll Free Helpline 18004251550

Forest Helpline BSNL Land Line: 155 300 BSNL Mobile: 0471 155 300 Other Networks: 0471- 211 5054/98, 2335523 General Administration 0471- 2518463 (Co-ordination) Helpline for Ex-Service Men 1800-11-3999 (All working days: 9.00 am5.30pm)

Chief Minister’s Distress Relief Fund 04712518513/0471-2518487/ (CMDRF) 0471-2518795/0471-2518332

CPC Call Center 1800-425-2229

Helpline to nab Garbage offenders 9496434517 (Only for Thiruvananthapuram)

Crime Stopper 1090

Highway Alert 9846 100 100

Chief Minister’s Grievance 1076 (From BSNL) Redressal Cell 18004251076 (From others) 91-471-1076 (From Outside India)

Disaster Management Helpline 1077 (Collectorate)

Kerala Public Service Commission 0471- 2554000

Child Helpline 1098 Citizens Call Centre 0471-2115054/98, 2335523

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April 2016

1070 (State Control Room) E-filing Call Center 080-26982000 (for e-filing of return) Election Helpline 1950

Call Centre KSRTC Helpline Control Room Tel: 0471 - 2463799/ 04712471011 ext 238 Mobile: 94470 710 21 Kudumbashree Travels

METRO mart T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M

www.metromartdaily.com

April 2016

0471-2728454 call centre number (for Thiruvananthapuram city)

(24X7 Toll free No.)

8590000543

PWD Helpline 1800 425 7771

State Consumer Helpline 1800-425-1550 (Toll free)

Labour Minister’s Helpline 155 300

Rail Alert 9846 200 100

Sutharya Keralam 155 300

Police Station (Nearest) 100

Ration card renewal Tel: 0471-2320379, 9495998223, 9495998224, 9495998225.

Tourist Information toll free 1-800-425-4747

Police Helpline (Head Quarters, Thiruvananthapuram) 0471-324 3000/4000/5000 Police Message Centre 94 97 900000 Police High Way Help Line 9846 100 100

Sabarimala Virtual Queue 0471-3243000/ 3244000/ 3245000 Secretariat Central Agency Tel: 0471- 2327558/ 2518202 (Out of Office hours)

Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana SLBC Call centre: 1800 425 11222

Secretariat Enquiry 0471- 2336576 Fax: 0471- 2333115 (IBMC/ Secretariat)

(PMJDY)

SHE TAXI 24x7 Call Centre

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April 2016

Trivandrum Medical College 0471-2528300 MCH Casualty : (24 hrs) UID/Aadhaar 1800-4251-1800 (Toll free number) Website: uid.kerala.gov.in Vigilance & 8592 900 900 (Toll Free Number) Anti-Corruption Bureau Women Helpline 1091

METRO mart T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M

www.metromartdaily.com

April 2016

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April 2016

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S WEET P U R E

PALAC E

G H E E

S W E E T S

The Home Towns of Mysorepa Carrot Mysorepa, Kaju Kathili Variety of Peda & Burfies Different Halwas Bengali Sweets and also available savories with Special Masala etc.

Puffs, Cakes Pastry Sandwich Birthday Cakes & Catering Service

Special Orders Accepted Call: 9656722998, 8714825539

www.metromartdaily.com

April 2016

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April 2016

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