Metro Mart December 2015

C DE 15 20

METRO mart Volume 5 Issue 5

`40

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

Ring in the and

Xmas New Year the liveliest way

The vibrant heritage of Kerala handloom

www.metromartdaily.com

Turret Builders-Your Dream Home Awaits

December 2015

2

December 2015

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

www.metromartdaily.com

December 2015

4

December 2015

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

www.metromartdaily.com

December 2015

6

December 2015

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

www.metromartdaily.com

December 2015

8

December 2015

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

The year past has created historic events, one of which being ‘Ottal’ in the 20th edition of IFFK bagging the Suvarna Chakoram. Metro Mart Thiruvananthapuram congratulates the team behind this Malayalam film. We hope and believe that in the coming year more thought-provoking films would do the rounds. There have been a number of winners from various events for Metro Mart Thiruvananthapuram to congratulate in this issue. This includes the winners of Kerala Tourism Awards for 2013-14 that has been presented by the Chief Minister and Kerala Tourism on receiving PATA award for Thekkady.

Foreword

Dear Readers

We are introducing Thiruvananthapuram Mayor, V.K. Prasanth to our readers. He is the youngest in Kerala to assume the Mayor’s office. We are sure his youthful enthusiasm, dynamism and fresh outlook would lead the city to great heights.

In this edition, we are highlighting ‘Turret Builders’ the luxurious gated community developers. With their activities stretching across our and nearby districts, Turret Builders portrays a team who has forged a fine niche in the property development market.

In this holiday season, Kerala Tourism sector is poised to host Belgian tourists in droves and we provide the readers top officials’ views on the same. While the city is in party-mode for Christmas and New Year, the hospitality sector has geared up to meet the party-goers expectations. A variety of celebratory offers has been put up by hotels (such as KEYS) and shopping establishments. Cultural programs are held at churches and institutions across the city and the children are guiding the elders to the celebratory mood.

Metro Mart Thiruvananthapuram hopes everyone had a good 2015.

Now let us march in to 2016 with a determination to better ourselves in all aspects.

Siji Nair Managing Editor & Director

Metro Mart Thiruvananthapuram also focuses on the benefits from ‘Swadeshi Tourism’ to three temples in Kerala. Infrastructure development in and around these temples would be the prime reason for it to be appealing to all. Our team has detailed two major events held in the city; first being HLL’s Hindi fortnight celebrations and the second logo launch for Kerala Business-to-Business Meet 2016 by State Industries Minister Sri. P.K. Kunhalikutty.

Wishing You All A Merry Christmas and A Very Happy New Year Siji Nair www.metromartdaily.com

December 2015

CONTENTS

Volume 5 Issue 5 December 2015 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

12

Ring in the Xmas and New Year in the Liveliest way

22

Christmas Eve and New Year Eve Parties with Special Discount Offers from KEYS-Thiruvananthapuram

26

CM Oommen Chandy presented 2013-14 Kerala Tourism Awards

30

Czarina’s Christmas Collection is a festive best seller

32

Turret Builders-Your Dream Home Awaits

38

Swadeshi Tourism to Benefit three Kerala temples

42

Our Mayor - V.K. Prasanth

52

Malayalam film Ottal sweeps all IFFK awards

56

The vibrant heritage of Kerala handloom

V. Viswanath

Editorial Assistant

Ampili Nair

Creative Assistant

Sayan Chaudhuri Arnab Chowdhury

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

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 December 2015

RNI No: KERENG/2011/40037

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

www.metromartdaily.com

December 2015

COVER FEATURE

s a m X e th n i g n r i a R e Y w e N d n ay a W t s e i vel The Li

Kerala, God’s Own Country, is always buzzing with activity and joy throughout the year.

There is sight-seeing to do and travelling is always a pleasure considering the beauty of backwaters, arts, sports, technology, culture and cuisine.

So what is this vibrant state upto at the time of Christmas and New Year? The same old things that have been exciting everyone each year, which isn’t very hard to guess - Christmas stars, carols, concerts, greeting cards and family reunions.

What remains an eternal star attraction for children are the Christmas tree, the Christmas cake, presents, and Christmas Father.

Deepika Dewan 12

December 2015

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

So what is this vibrant state upto at the time of Christmas and New Year? The same old things that have been exciting everyone each year, which isn’t very hard to guess - Christmas stars, carols, concerts, greeting cards and family reunions. What remains an eternal star attraction for children are the Christmas tree, the Christmas cake, presents, and Christmas Father.

Let’s take a look at how the last few days of Year 2015 are going to be a splendid one.

Christmas Eve in Kerala As always, the night of 24th December would be buzzing with action and real time fun. Go across any Christian home and you will see home decorations in full swing livening up the

www.metromartdaily.com

Christmas Eve. There are Christmas tree decorations and hanging stars to wall hangings on the doors.

Lights and candles can be seen everywhere and delicious culinary preparations are like the

icing on the cake. Christmas celebrations in Kerala are incomplete without midnight masses which begin late in the night and continue till the next morning.

December 2015

Kerala’s natural bounty during Christmas eve.

The Christians of Kerala are of the view that the message of Jesus was preached to their forebears

by Apostle St Thomas who landed at Kodungallur in Thrissur district in AD 52.

A page from history is so fulfilling, isn’t it?

As the morning of 25th December dawns, the real enjoyment begins. There are whole lots of things to do on the day of Santa Claus - from last minute shopping to decorations and several other preparations.

It’s a sight to watch people

14

December 2015

gathering at public places and delighting in street lights and decorations.

Some love to listen to the soft music being played around whereas other families make it a point to visit each other for a traditional dinner party.

Churches and cathedrals are the main hub of action as the ordinary and the religious minded believe in offering prayers on Christmas Day. Besides this, the added advantage of mesmerizing beaches and backwaters adds to the Christmas celebrations. After all, who would want to miss out on the chance to explore

Kerala is a cool place with warm-hearted people. That is why it likes to welcome its guests from around the world by providing them nature-picked ambiance to celebrate Christmas.

Some of the best things for tourists to celebrate Christmas in this best south Indian tourist destination is to enjoy lightening at beaches and the boat races. Keeping in mind the secular tradition of Kerala, there are many nonChristians who participate in Christmas celebrations. In fact, Christmas festivities go on with great fervour during the week and beyond leading to New Year.

And how can one miss

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

www.metromartdaily.com

December 2015

after the service finishes.

out on shopping? Kerala is an excellent option for a memorable festival or a holiday tour in India. So make the most of it this Christmas.

New Year’s Eve in Kerala This is the time when celebrations go on a grand scale. As Kerala gets into a celebratory mood, various prominent hotels throw splendid parties to make the night of December 31 a memorable one.

Cultural programs are held in different parts of the city. Midnight services are held in churches where members greet each other

16

December 2015

Fire crackers and church bells herald the New Year with great enthusiasm.

But it is at Kovalam beach where the real action happens.

Know about the “World’s Largest Ginger Bread Village”? It was created and made open to the public last year in December 2014 by Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel & Spa located in Kovalam. An interesting and whacky way to celebrate Christmas and New Year, the spectacular gingerbread village weighed 2.28 tons spread over 504 square feet.

Kishore who was joined in his venture by Chief Chef Rhynold and other team members.

In this innovative concept, a complete village comprising of houses, forests, mountains, waterfalls, railway stations, places of worship, schools, hospitals, commercial and government buildings were made up of Gingerbread. So detailed was the village that it included clock tower, hanging bridge, flora & fauna, bicycles, cars, well-lit streets, banks and ATMs.

The basis behind the making of this gingerbread village was to break the world record set in the year 2013 in the USA. This year’s stunning Gingerbread village hopes to draw in a large crowd This exciting village was the and positive response from brainchild of Pastry Chef Mr. around the globe.

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

www.metromartdaily.com

December 2015

Authorised Dealer:

TC 74/972(1), Opposite Cordova High School Kovalam Bypass Road, Thiruvananthapuram - 695026 M: 9847040190

SKP Motors Pvt Ltd

Rate: INR 6,000 per couple Contact: 6600000 3. Uday Samudra, Kovalam

New Year 2016 Celebrations

1950 per person on January 1 at the Fifth Element.

There will also be special menu lined up at Chinapolis on December 31.

Contact: 0471-6612345

Here is a snapshot of the parties lined up to ring in year 2016: 1. Vivanta by Taj, Vazhuthacaud Vivanta by Taj is offering three varieties of DJ night.

DJ Night at Twist will cost you INR 3,000. DJ and dance at the ball room with buffet spread lined up will cost INR 5,500 .

On December 31st, Vivanta

by Taj is offering special gala dinner at INR 2950 and a brunch and dinner at INR

18

December 2015

2. Hilton Garden Inn Hop over to Hilton Garden Inn to enjoy the ‘UV Mayhem’ which comprises of an Ultra Violet (UV) party and dinner at ball room and Garden Grille on New Year’s Eve. The guests, to be dressed in white, can get glow painting done on their faces. Apart from the main event, there will be Party props, photo booth, elaborate buffet, kid’s zone and a two-piece band at Garden Grille, and a DJ in the ballroom.

On New Year’s Eve, Uday Samudra Beach resort at Kovalam is hosting a gala event featuring Indian traditional dances, magic trapeze acts, rope dance, an elaborate buffet with 36 counters, and fireworks.

Time: 7:00PM onwards Rate: INR 8,000 per couple Contact: 2485767 4. Vivanta by Taj, Kovalam Kovalam Taj is showcasing traditional Kerala dance performances, live band, international dance forms and last but not the least DJ night to bring in the new year. There will also be a dinner based around the theme, ‘Retro’.

Rate: INR 11,000 (for

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

couple), INR 3,500 (for kids between 5 to 12 years) Contact: 6613000 5. Lake Palace Hotel & Resorts, Thonikkadavu, Kadinamkulam, Near Technopark Lake Palace presents the biggest New Year party in one of best water front venue in Trivandrum featuring “UNDERGROUND AUTHORITY” and “DJ

www.metromartdaily.com

TOMINEN” along with fantastic line up of dancers from “VOLCANO DANCE COMPANY”. It would be first time party in Lake Palace where you get to enjoy the experience of a brand new 5 star property. The only 5 star hotel in Trivandrum having a Live Band performance with 30000 Watts sound in a Great location with beautiful ambience. “Underground Authority” is a famous rock band from Kolkata, playing

for the first time in south India.

It’s your chance to win a Pulsar bike along with lots of other attractive gifts.

1 lakh sq feet of Garden lawn facing back water and swimming pool decorated in UV theme. Experience the world class culinary talents and taste a variety of food and beverages.

Time: 7:00PM onwards Contact: 0471 242 6130

December 2015

COVER STORY

“Plan a Pleasurable New Year Eve Adding Safety Factor in Addition” The years are passing on very quickly yet another new year is waiting to welcome us all keeping many things in store for us in coming days. The passing years are making some of us old while this upcoming year 2016 is definitely special for the youngsters to celebrate and cherish. It is important for all to start this New Year entry with fun and pleasure expecting to carry out the same throughout the year. So, what is it in your mind for this special day?

Venkataramana Rolla

New Year’s Eve parties are definitely special and probably everyone thinking of one such for this special evening. If you’re in a Metro City or a city, then choices will be definitely endless.

If you’re planning it with a huge gathering of friends and family at home, then food and games should be in your agenda without fail. Planning at home a big New Year Eve party, then check these below steps to follow: • Plan it in the form of BYOA (Bring Your Own appetizer). People those are

20

December 2015

new to cooking should be suggested to bring fruits, raw veggies and some nut platters.

• Plan some beverages from your side basing up on your friends and family people interests.

• Plan a best midnight supper.

• Plan the entire party keeping in mind the TIME. Start it around 10pm and plan to let it last for up to 5 hours from the time of initiation.

• If any craziest noise makers are there in your friends and family, then never forget to add them to the list of invitees. Also, make it sure that these noise makers will come up with their special voice making instruments to make the partly so alive.

• If you have any astrologer or tarot reader in your group, then add the special predictions of New Year for each sign in the party.

• Do not forget decorations and make it in a way party mood can soar higher and

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

higher.

• Do not forget to light all party area with the candles.

• Listen, it is not yet over.

Make it sure all your guests go safely on their vehicles too at the end of the party and take this as your responsibility without fail.

So, no mood for a party at home and want to enjoy something special away from the home, then you have plenty of options to choose too. There will be plenty of parties at the posh hotels starting from the Eve of Christmas. Let us see some of these special New Year Eve parties a glimpse: • Fireworks: London Thames River New Year Fireworks party is definitely something to remember here. Nowadays, many hotels in the India are arranging such parties with specially designed fireworks.

Check some of these available in your city and try it.

• Boat Party: An idea to spend the New Year Eve in a boat at the middle of a lake or river is definitely something worthy trying and experiencing. These boat parties are in general arranged with huge gatherings added with finest DJs and lip smacking food. There will be in general unlimited drinks served at such parties too. Try this idea, if it is available in your city for a change.

• New Year Eve Ball: Dazzling www.metromartdaily.com

ball parties are not any longer a new thing for our Indians. A new year evening party with such ball is definitely a best thing to start your upcoming year first day. Generally, such parties are added with unlimited drinks as well as five course banquet too.

• Best DJ Party: For many of us a New Year party with the best DJ is something a best sought after one.

Many top hotels in India are arranging such blasting DJ parties for this New Year unveiling ceremony. Check for these options and you will come across to such party with your favorite DJ for sure.

• Roof Garden Parties: Definitely, enjoying New Year party on a roof garden is something like taking part into all parties in the city. It is quite nostalgic too for remembering some of similar parties enjoyed in childhood at your place or friends’ places too.

Importantly, it will give you a spectacular view of the city besides making you part of other parties around and their fireworks too.

• Bar Crawl: This is another innovative style of arranging New Year parties taking place at all parts of the world including in India.

Here, four or five popular pubs and bars join hands together to come with an

extravaganza New Year party.

This could be big and wild to match well to your dream party interest. These parties will be arranged with huge gathering including unlimited food, drinks and firecrackers too. Check for this kind of parties in your town and you will end up bagging more fun in return for sure.

• Vintage Parties: While the New Year Eve parties are meant for young, there are few vintage parties too seen available around. These are perfect touch of memory lane as well as nostalgia for your celebrations. Many people think that these are best match for matured adult, but youngsters trying it can help them well to relate well to their generation as well as to next too. Try this for a change this year and you will bag different kind of memorable experience for this New Year.

New Year Eve party is definitely to make our day special and pleasurable besides letting you to start your New Year at a best positive note too. Here, planning and selection of the right party is always plays an important role, but we suggest you to add it further about your safe return to home after the end of the party too. I wish you a great and prosperous New Year to You all.

December 2015

DINING

Christmas Eve and New Year Eve Parties with Special Discount Offers from KEYS-Thiruvananthapuram December is definitely a month that gears up always with huge celebrations. Christmas and New Year celebrations are always part of everyone’s schedules this month. Here, expecting a better party this year than the previous is common with all too.

Thiruvanathapuram is currently brimming with different parties for this month. There are many options waiting to enthrall you while some is getting confused which one to select too. There are wide array of parties with different themes and styles ready to lure you all around, but KEYS hotel’s offerings are worth checking before finalizing your decision.

Let us see their each party detail with insight: Christmas Eve Party This party is planned on 24th December night of this year 2015. This is added with a whole lot of entertainment along with Syrian Christian menu to satisfy well your taste buds. It will cost you Rs.799/ per each person.

The ambiance of the party is planned to arrange in a way to match well to your interests. The menu is well arranged to make

22

December 2015

your presence valuable.

Planned entertainment is

going to store this experience permanent in your memory

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

www.metromartdaily.com

December 2015

lane. This will make you look for the same party again in the next year too.

Here, Keys Hotels very much aware of the people with busy schedules and they can’t afford to take part in the whole party. You need not have to miss the Christmas mood because of your busy schedule and time constraints. There is a midnight buffet available for such a people on the 24th December night from 12.00am to 2.0am. Take part in it and this will add up the best Christmas mood into your busy life for sure.

This mid night buffet comes at juts Rs. 299/ per head.

Still, there is something more for you to make more out of this offer. Make an advance reservation to the party and avail 15% discount flat.

New Year’s Eve Party Christmas gone but still party mood not yet gone people can cherish well

24

December 2015

with the New Year’s Eve Party of the KEYS Hotels on the night of 31st December, 2015. Enjoy the evening with KEYS Hotel and welcome the New Year with huge celebrations.

This party is included with entertainment as well as dinner. Please make it a note that KEYS Hotel made this as a best family gathering this party and made it as pure nonalcoholic dinner party. Hotel is making all arrangements in order to make the evening pleasurable and memorable for all. This is available at just Rs. 2016/ per couple. You can bring your children too and they

will be charged with 50% discount. So, what is making you wait? And reserve your table today without any further delay.

KEYS Hotel is your trusted host for any type of events or parties since ages in Thiruvanathapuram. This year Christmas and New Year Eve parties from this pioneer are going to add further more pleasure to your presence. You can contact Dhanesh for reservations on 8086079917. Enjoy the party and keep up the same mood until next year parties.

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

www.metromartdaily.com

December 2015

AWARD

CM Oommen Chandy presented 2013-14 Kerala Tourism Awards Chief Minister Shri Ooommen Chandy gave away the Kerala State Tourism Awards for 2013-14 for show of exceptional performance in the field. State Tourism Minister Shri AP Anilkumar presided over the Vivanta By Taj function, which was attended by Devaswom Minister Shri VS Sivakumar.

The awards, which total

Shri Oommen Chandy

are given memento and

27 in three categories,

suggested that cash prizes

certificate.

were primarily listed by an

also be given to all the

expert panel deputed by

awardees. Accepting

the Tourism Department.

the suggestion, Tourism

They were ratified after a

Minister Shri Anilkumar

thorough scrutiny by a high-

announced that cash

powered committee under

awards will be given from

the Tourism Secretary.

the winners of 2013-2014

Giving away the awards,

26

December 2015

onwards. Currently, the winners of tourism awards

Kerala Tourism Secretary Shri G Kamala Vardhana Rao and Tourism Director PI Sheik Pareeth also attended the function.

Intersight Tours and Travels Pvt Ltd won the best award for In-bound Tour Operator.

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

www.metromartdaily.com

December 2015

Leela Kovalam (Raviz

Homestay award. The

for this year went to

Group) bagged the award

award for the Best Serviced

Waterworld Live Museum

for the top five-star deluxe

Villa went to British County,

of Ernakulam Tourist

hotel, while Kumarakom

Munnar, while the award

Desk, while Somatheeram

Lake Resort won the best

for the Best Recognised

Ayurveda Group,

Houseboat Operator

Thiruvananthapuram

went to Rainbow Cruise,

won the award for the

Alappuzha.

best use of information

five-star hotel award. Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel has been adjudged the best four-star hotel, and Marari Beach of Alappuzha won the top three-star hotel award. Coconut Lagoon at Kumarakom is the best heritage hotel.

Somatheeram Ayurveda Beach Resort Pvt Ltd at Kovalam won the award for the best Ayurveda Centre,

The award for the best

technology in tourism.

hotel manager went to

The best performance

Mathew C Thomas of

award in Responsible

Vivanta By Taj, Kovalam,

Tourism went to Our

while Oriental School

Land Backwater Resort

of Hotel Management

initiative at Punnapra in

in Lakkidi of Wayanad

Alappuzha by Chalukya

pocketed the award for the

Grace Tours Pvt Ltd.

best tourism management institute.

The Best Adventure Tourism Award went to

while Coconut Creek at

The award for new

Calypso Adventures Pvt

Kumarakom won the Best

initiatives in tourism

Ltd of Kochi.

28

December 2015

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

www.metromartdaily.com

December 2015

SHOPPING

Czarina’s Christmas Collection is a festive best seller Trivandrum’s leading designer boutique, Czarina, has added an extra sparkle to the festive season with a scintillating Christmas Collection launched on December 1.

The unique collection has already garnered rave reviews. Customers are coming in droves to pick and choose from a mesmersing array of sarees, kurtis and salwar materials in vivid colours and designs.

Exquisitely crafted Tussar, Georgette, Organza, Bailou, Maheshwari, Kota, Supernet and Cotton sarees are the key attractions of the collection, which ends on January 1.

Showcasing the royal splendour of opulent silks, Czarina’s new venture, Czarina Royale is also bringing out a special collection of Kancheepuram and Banarasi silk sarees for the festive season.

Czarina’s Designer Wear Boutique is now a one-stop destination for all kinds of churidar materials, kurtis and duppattas. Brocade, Tussar, Raw Silk, Block Print, Cotton and a wide variety of ethnic fabrics are available at Cotton Studio.

To make Christmas and

30

December 2015

New Year celebrations truly memorable, Czarina is committed to offering high quality sarees and designer wear at the most affordable prices. In order to meet the heavy rush during the festive season, Czarina will remain open on this

Sundays - December 27.

All branches of Czarina are located at Catholic Centre on Statue-General Hospital Road. For more details, visit Czarina’s Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/ Czarina DesignerSarees or call 9387721322.

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

Snapshot @ Czarina

The unique collection has already garnered rave reviews. Customers are coming in droves to pick and choose from a mesmersing array of sarees, kurtis and salwar materials in vivid colours and designs.

Exquisitely crafted Tussar, Georgette, Organza, Bailou, Maheshwari, Kota, Supernet and Cotton sarees are the key attractions of the collection, which ends on January 1.

Showcasing the royal splendour of opulent silks, Czarina’s new venture, Czarina Royale is also bringing out a special collection of Kancheepuram and Banarasi silk sarees www.metromartdaily.com

for the festive season.

Czarina’s Designer Wear Boutique is now a one-stop destination for all kinds of churidar materials, kurtis and duppattas. Brocade, Tussar, Raw Silk, Block Print, Cotton and a wide variety of ethnic fabrics are available at Cotton Studio.

are located at Catholic Centre on Statue-General Hospital Road. For more details, visit Czarina’s Facebook page http:// www.facebook.com/ Czarina DesignerSarees or call 9387721322.

To make Christmas and New Year celebrations truly memorable, Czarina is committed to offering high quality sarees and designer wear at the most affordable prices. In order to meet the heavy rush during the festive season, Czarina will remain open on this Sundays - December 27. All branches of Czarina December 2015

LIVING

Turret Builders-Your Dream Home Awaits Turret Engineers & Builders Pvt. Ltd is a reputed enterprises focused on luxurious gated communities with the best of amenities. All the projects come with ample greenery, spacious and modern design. The company stepped on the path of glory in the year 2004.

During the course of time from one project a year the company had grown to the stage of handling multiple projects at a time.

They are known for their preserveness of providing homes with substantial quality Turret has been in operation for over a decade.

The company has successfully delivered over 50 residential/ commercial projects spanning 23000 square feet, with an additional 18000 square feet of projects under development.

Operating from Thiruvanthapuram, they strive to become synonymous

32

December 2015

with quality and creative lifestyle. A comfortable blend of luxury with affordability makes their project distinct in style and clientele. Built upon the foundation of trust and transparency, they have forged a fine niche in this highly competitive market.

Turret’s primary business strategy is development of residential, commercial and retail properties along with individual turnkey contracts.

The team has complemented each other marvellously throughout their last few

years of operations. Their joint craftsmanship ensures architectural perfection in each one of their projects.

Their contemporary designs artfully incorporate tradition, a delightful mix of the vintage allure with the new age luxury.

Turret Builders is a private limited company, but at first Turret Builders was a partnership firm. They have their own well experienced and dedicated labourers for the execution of works.

Turret builders caters to both residential as well as commercial clients while also undertaking turnkey projects.

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

www.metromartdaily.com

December 2015

Some of the works that they have carried out are as follows.

1. Apartment Adhitya home in Chenkottukonam.

2. Apartment Adhitya Empire in Chenkottukonam.

3. Apartment Adhitya Marvel in Poojappura.

4. Apartment Adhitya Majesty in Poojapura.

5. Apartment Gama Regency in P. T. P Nagar.

6. More than 75 independant villa projects in Thiruvanthapuram.

They do vasthu based construction, that is customised to suit the needs of the customer. The rates are comparatively lower, quality is maintained in all categories.

Work is excecuted by qualified engineers with top quality materials.

The ongoing projects are:

34

December 2015

1. Abodes Maple, 75 residential homes near Manvilla Engineering College. These are premium homes costing near a crore 2500 square feet onwards.

2. Turret Galaxy, near the VSSC at Nedumangad.

These are middle segment starting from 35 lakhs.

3. Abodes Bougainvillea.

Boutique villas & Apartments. Blending with nature these villas and apartments are nestled on the hillside and

unspoilt by the vagrancies of industrialization. Promoted

by Abodes Design & Build and built by Turret Builders, the project is located in Chenkottukonam, 6 kms from Technopark and near schools, colleges, hospitals and shopping centres. There are 26 villas and 18 apartments in a 1.30 Acre property. The villas range from 1138 sq. ft.onwards and customised for each individual owner to meet their own unique needs. The designs are open and practical with lots of light and ventilation. The prices

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

www.metromartdaily.com

December 2015

are comparable and do not load the customer with unnecessary amenities which add to the cost and incur huge maintenance costs. Though exterior appearances may appear similar, each home is made to meet the individual taste of customer. They can choose their own materials and the cost difference is adjusted in the payments.

Ideally located, this project is close to Technopark, ISRO, Karyavattam University, Engineering College, etc. The location

36

December 2015

is easily accessible from the national highway and byepass..

4. Grace Homes, Nagercoil, is locatedin Y. Thomas Hamlet, ‘Christu Nagar’ 12 km from Nagercoil on the side of Nagercoil-Chennai main highway just opposite The Pentecoastal Mission Convention Ground.

Many residential villas, apartments, shops are coming up nearby due to its ideal location of natural beauty, healthy environment and closeness

to the highway. Grace Homes consists of three floor apartment in a 200 sqm compound with car parking facility. The compact yet spacious apartments of 65 sqm and 110 sqm are customised to meet customer needs..

Contact- Turret Builders,3rd Floor,Sharmees Tower, Sasthamangalam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695010 Ph: +919745120078,+91471 2310078, +91471 4011560 Visit-www. turretbuilders.com

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

www.metromartdaily.com

December 2015

METRO FOCUS

Swadeshi Tourism to Benefit three Kerala temples Three major temples of Kerala are poised to get a boost to their pilgrim hospitality as the central government has given the state the permission to go ahead with a Rs-100 crore project to improve facilities around the temples of Padmanabhaswamy here, Parthasarathy in Aranmula and for Sabarimala pilgrimage tourism.

“The mega project,

now, does not pertain

museums and a stone-

under the Swadeshi

to expenses on temple

paved 5.2-km heritage

Darshan Tourism of the

rituals, instead aims

walk that would permit

central government,

at bettering the

viewing all the four

was announced during

infrastructure for the

gateways of the shrine.

Onam festival time this

pilgrims in the three

The other plans include a

year when Union Tourism

renowned shrines,” he

renovation of the pathway

Minister Mahesh Sharma

added.

running adjacent the

during his visit to Kerala,” Kerala Tourism Minister Shri AP Anilkumar said.

The main attraction of the Padmanabha Swamy temple package

“The package, which

that would feature 25-

got the official clearance

odd vintage buildings,

38

December 2015

four gateways and the sprawling Padmateertha tank, construction of drinking water fountain and toilet blocks, providing dustbins around the

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

www.metromartdaily.com

December 2015

complex and signage

At south-central Kerala’s

The Sabarimala project

boards and uniform name

Aranmula, there will be a

involves a waiting hall

boards, underground

roof coming up for the VIP

at Nilakkal, cloak rooms,

cabling of electric cables

gallery watching the famed

shower rooms, toilets,

and other service lines,

Onam-time boat race,

parking bays, a walking

better drainage including

erecting stronger walls,

bridge parallel to the one

that for storm-water,

toilets, bathing ghats, solar

now running across the

opening a new information

street lights and signage,

Pampa river and another

centre, digital museum

besides better facilities

bridge parallel to the one

and installation of a solar

for the feast at the famed

now starting from the

panel.

vallassadya.

parking lot.

40

December 2015

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

www.metromartdaily.com

December 2015

ON FACE

Our Mayor - V.K. Prasanth

The Thiruvananthapuram Mayor, Mr. V.K. Prasanth, at 34, is the youngest in Kerala to assume the Mayor’s office.

He was also the youngest councillor, at the age of 24. He has a very pleasing personality, radiating youthful enthusiasm and dynamism.

In a very frank interview he gave to our journal, he was very precise and definite about his objectives and future plans. Full of enthusiasm brimming with confidence and energy, we have a lot to expect, from this youngster. He is very modest and approachable to all. After handling several leadership roles in his party, he has won his seat with an impressive majority. It is believed his youthful vigour and diplomatic ways would be useful to handle the council in an efficient manner.

M M Desk 42

December 2015

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

www.metromartdaily.com

December 2015

Could you please tell us something about yourself?

I come from a very ordinary background. My father S. Krishnan is a Panchayat Secretary and my mother Vasantha is a housewife.

I have an elder sister Praveena. My wife Rajee is a housewife and we have a six-year-old daughter Aliya.

I did most of my studies in Kazhakuttam, and after completing Law degree, I was a very active SFI worker from Kazhakuttam.

What was your reaction when you won the councillor election with a thumping majority?

I expected a maximum of 1000-1500 margin majority, and I was very happy, excited, and overwhelmed at the result. I know that I have to do my utmost for the trust and faith kept on me.

What would be your vision, mission and your priorities?

I do not make promises that I can do miracles. My first priority is that the common man gets speedy and immediate redress for their grievances. For this it is very important that the Corporation officers should have a very positive attitude towards the people.

The first step should be to inculcate a positive approach. Zonal offices

44

December 2015

will be set up to ensure maximum effectiveness in disposal of petitions.

The responsibility of the Zonal office will be entrusted to a permanent committee with delegated responsibility. The functioning of this office will be weekly monitored by our office, and fast execution of all cases will be brought about.

Maximum priority is to do everything online.

Now only birth and death certificates are issued online. So my vision is to have a people-friendly Corporation.

My second most important priority is waste management, the biggest problem that we face everywhere. I have met all the previous Mayors and based on their support and advice, alternate, decentralised treatment plants will be set up.

There is no central system now, and that is the present inadequacy. Small plants are to be erected in several areas and the project ‘Ente Nagaram Sundara Nagaram’ will be carried out on an urgent basis. Selected junctions will be identified and improvements will be brought about.

We will ensure safety in the city with facilities like

street light. Steps would be taken to ensure our city becomes a womenfriendly city. Also awareness programmes for women will be initiated. ‘She-taxis’ will be encouraged.

Internet facilities would be improved by providing free WiFi in important places like Technopark, Secretariat, Railway stations, Bus terminals, etc. Bringing such new generation ideas will be one of the biggest efforts.

Now, old age pension is given to 56000 persons, but there are many problems.

This issue will be taken up and improvised to make the payment through banks.

Adequate attention will be given to places of importance like Sree Padmanabha Swamy temple, and proper lighting and amenities for pilgrims and tourists will be developed.

Tourism centres will be given more attention. The city should be developed.

Animal Birth Control, will be implemented through vetenary hospitals.

Will you be able to continue with your law practise?

I will not be able to give justice to all my responsibilities, so I do not think I will continue.

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

www.metromartdaily.com

December 2015

METRO UPDATE

HLL’s Hindi fortnight celebrations end on a grand note A fortnight of music and literary challenges in the official language of Hindi ended as the HLL Lifecare Ltd’s (HLL) Hindi fortnight celebrations concluded at Trivandrum.

IHLL Lifecare has won the Rajabhasha Hindi Puraskar nine times for its spirited promotion of the language, and the justconcluded celebrations included programmes such as Hindi Mela, Hindi music night, Balasibhiram, Memory Test, Divasam oru vaaku (learn a word per day).

“As a central public sector enterprise, we are proud to have succeeded in promoting and popularising Hindi among our employees,” said HLL Chairman and Managing Director Dr M Ayyapan, at the valedictory celebrations. “The

46

December 2015

Rajabhasha Hindi Puraskar is an endorsement of our commitment to the language.”

The chief guest at the function Rtd Head of the Department of Hindi, Kerala University, Dr S Thankamanni Amma likened giving value to the language to “loving our country”. Emphasizing the importance of Hindi, Smt Thankamanni said that the language will soon find a place in the United Nation’s language list. She appreciated HLL efforts in nurturing Hindi.

HLL Lifecare’s Kanagala factory in Karnataka and

its Peroorkada factory also received the company’s Chal Vaijayanti Raj Bhasha shield for using the Hindi language in the most efficient way, during the celebrations yesterday.

Dr Ayyappan also gave away the prizes to the winners of the competitions held for the employees and children during the fortnight celebrations.

HLL Director (Technical) Dr KRS Krishnan and Company Secretary Senior Vice President (HR) P Sreekumar attended the function.

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

www.metromartdaily.com

December 2015

FOCUS EVENT

Kerala to organise B2B Meet 2016 for SMEs in February Marking the first programme in the run-up to Kerala Business-to-Business Meet 2016, State Industries Minister Shri P K Kunhalikutty today launched the logo for the mega event slated for early next year.

The three-day meet,

slogan “Opportunities

exclusively for the

Face 2 Face for

small and medium

SMEs”—alluding to

enterprise (SME), is

the aim of creating a

scheduled to be held

buyer-seller network

at the CIAL Trade Fair&

that enables one-to-

Exhibition Centre

one interaction—was

at Nedumbasseryin

unveiled by the

Ernakulam district from

Industries and IT

February 4.

Minister at a function in

The logo, bearing the

48

December 2015

the state capital.

“The SME sector in Kerala has witnessed a 12 per cent growth— the highest in India— and the B2B meet will serve to strengthen the growth,” Shri Kunhalikutty said.

“Unlike other states, we do not have large areas to hand over to

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

www.metromartdaily.com

December 2015

industries, and cannot

Industries & Commerce

nodal agency, is being

give environmental

will identify and select

organised in association

clearances to polluting

200 SMEs for the meet,

with the Directorate of

industries. In Kerala, we

while apex trade body

Industries & Commerce,

are keener on inclusive

and the event’s ‘trade

the Directorate of

growth, such as seen in

& industry partner’, the

Handlooms & Textiles,

the SME sector.”

Federation of Indian

the Kerala State

Chambers of Commerce

Industrial Development

& Industry,will bring

Corporation (KSIDC)

in 300 national and 50

and the Kerala

international buyers.

Industrial Infrastructure

The February 4-6 meet being organised by the State Government Department of Industries

Development

& Commerce will focus

Industries Principal

on seven key sectors

Secretary Shri P H

in the state: food-

Kurian recalled that the

Also present at the

processing; handlooms,

last year’s meet was

function were KSIDC

textiles and garments;

successful.“This time

Managing Director Dr.

rubber; wood-based

too, we expect the meet

M Beena, K-BIPCEO Shri

industries; Ayurveda,

to provide a boost to

V Rajagopal, FICCI Co-

health and cosmetics;

Kerala’s SME sector,” he

Chairman Shri Deepak

engineering, electrical

added.

L Aswani, Director

& electronics and handicrafts.

The Directorate of

50

December 2015

The event, with Kerala Bureau for Industrial Promotion(K-BIP) as the

Corporation.

(Handlooms & Textiles) Shri Sam C Ittycheria and Industries Additional Director Shri K.Sudhir.

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

www.metromartdaily.com

December 2015

FESTIVAL

Malayalam film Ottal sweeps all IFFK awards Director R Jayaraj’s Ottal (The Trap) made history, sweeping all the top awards, including the ‘audience poll’ award, at the 20th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK).

Guest of honour Governor Justice Shri P Sathasivam awarded the coveted Suvarna Chakoram, the Best Film of the International Federation of Film Critics (FIPRESCI) jury, the Best Malayalam film of the Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema (NETPAC) jury and the audience poll awards to Jayaraj at the closing ceremony function in Nishagandhi today.

The Suvarna Chakoram consists of a Rs 15 lakh cash award, certificate and memento.

The citation stated that Ottal, already a winner in the National and State film awards, took the top prize for “its strong cinematic language, interweaving local and planetary concerns; humankind’s relationship to nature and nurture and child human right—all grounded in a deep honest connection to

52

December 2015

Iranian filmmaker Dariush Mehrjui receiving the IFFK’s Lifetime Achievement Award from Governor Justice Shri P Sathasivam. Shri V S Achuthanandan, Shri Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan, T Rajeev Nath, Shaji N Karun and S Rajendran Nair and Smt Rani George are also seen. culture and place”.

New comer Kumarakom Vasudevan, a fisherman, got a Jury’s Special Mention for their roles in Ottal.

“It is often felt that Kerala is not only God’s Own Country, but the favourite foster land of a variety of arts, so it is

little wonder that it has produced notable names in filmmaking,” said Shri Sathasivam. “The film festival provides an opportunity for film lovers to see films from around the world and thereby get a feel for lifestyles around the world.”

The Rajatha Chakoram for Best Director was

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

www.metromartdaily.com

December 2015

awarded to Jun Robles Lana for the Filipino film Shadow Behind the Moon.

It consists of a cash award of Rs 4 lakh, certificate and memento.

The Rajatha Chakoram for Best Debut Director was awarded to Bangladeshi director Abu Shahed Emon for Jalal’s Story. It consists of a cash award of Rs 3 lakh, certificate and memento.

Sanal Kumar Sasidharan’s small-budget film, An Off-Day Game, took the FIPRESCI award for Best Malayalam Film.

Israeli film Yona won the NETPAC Best Asian film award.

The closing ceremony was attended by leader of the Opposition Shri V S Achuthanandan, Minister for Cinema Shri Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan, and secretary (Cultural Affairs) Smt Rani George.

“We have to make a better effort to market Malayalam films internationally,” said Shri Achuthanandan.

“The government should also implement the recommendations of the

54

December 2015

Director R Jayaraj receiving Suvarna Chakoram from Justice P Sathashivam. Producer K Mohan, Shri V S Achuthanandan, Shri Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan, Dariush Mehrjui, Shaji N Karun, Smt Rani George are also seen Adoor Gopalakrishnan Committee report.

Shri Thiruvanchoor commended the relationship that the delegates share with the IFFK that made the festival a success. “When the festival reaches its 25th year, we hope to accommodate 25,000 delegates,” said the Minister. “We have already had a discussion with key players in the film industry to discuss the better marketing of Malayalam films.”

Legendary Iranian filmmaker Dariush Mehrjui, whose film package was shown in the festival’s Retrospective segment, was honoured

with the IFFK’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

The award for lifetime achievement carries a cash prize of Rs 10 lakh, a memento and an official citation.

Mehrjui presented the Film Employees Federation of Kerala’s (FEFKA) inaugural ‘Master’s award’ to avant garde Malayalam filmmaker K G George.

The Iranian director also presented the prize to the signature film winner Shri Shameer Babu.

Tagore theatre, which was introduced this year as the festival’s main hub, won best theatre for its aesthetic quality, while New Theatre Screen 1 won for best technical quality.

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

www.metromartdaily.com

December 2015

SHOPPING

The vibrant heritage of Kerala handloom Undoubtedly it is the backwaters, beaches and Ayurveda that have driven many a global and Indian customer to God’s own country down South. But there is no missing the vibrant heritage of handloom products that has been reviving the traditional skill of Kerala in the global market avenues.

Sam C Ittycheria Director, Handlooms & Textiles As a livelihood staple of Malayalis, the Handlooms have brought in a new sense of enthusiasm and unmistakably rich avatar to the handloom sector in the State.

Championed and set up under Directorate of Handlooms and Textiles, Kerala in the year 1979, the prime motive of this venture has been to protect and promote the production and weavers of handloom industry in the state while combating the invasion of umpteen affordably and mass-produced mill-made textiles in the market.

56

December 2015

For over four decades, the Directorate with several like-minded institutions such as HANTEX has worked to support the handloom sector in multiple domains whether it is

infrastructure, marketing, human resource development or conservation and preservation of traditional skills and products, raw material supply, export, modernization, welfare programmes, price stability and many more.

With production centers and sales outlets grooming up to produce hand crafted fabrics, traditional wears, sarees, garments, furnishings and made-ups, in tune with eco friendly norms for internal and

export market, the never waning skill of Kerala artisans is on its way to get the muchneeded impetus.

Pot-pourri of Handloom Masterpieces Any Malyali lady can be spotted by mogra flowers and a unique saree with off-white color and golden border as everyday costume to festival wear. Such is the elegance of a saree manufactured in Kerala that it is not only a real feast to the eyes but almost an

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

www.metromartdaily.com

December 2015

as compared to pure jeri.

Survival of the Heirloom

identification-cum-reference point. This ‘Settu Mundu’ as it is fondly called is handwoven and 100% bleached.

Cotton is seen as the queen of fabrics owing to the comfort quotient it provides and becomes the prime handloom fabric used in designer sarees, dhoties, lungis and many more. Dhotis especially known as ‘Kasavu Mundu’ worn by men during the festivals and special occasions come in light colors and golden edges, making them look all the more regal for ceremonial wear. Moreover, the quality of threads maintains a sheer equilibrium with the ecosystem. Of much significance is the ‘Kora’ cloth which happens to be unbleached cotton and is becoming popular in foreign markets as well.

58

December 2015

Come down to Ernakulam for this happens to be the birth place of Chendamangalam handlooms. This is where you will come across the fineness in weaving that makes each handloom saree and double dhoti graceful. Yet another handloom masterpiece is Kasargod saree that is made of high quality yarn using traditional handmade methods. Set dhoties and sarees of Kuthampully, Kannur and Balarampuram further add to the delight and celebration of Kerala Handloom.

Yet another district that boasts of handloom fabric weaving is Koothampalli in Thrissur. The ‘Kasavu Sarees’ produced here are mostly with half fine jeri that are more affordable

The handloom industry in the state of Kerala is spread over 14 districts, from Thiruvananthapuram to Kasargod. Statistics show that almost 2 lakh of weavers earn their livelihood from 75o cooperative societies and 50,000 private sector handlooms and almost 5 lakh families are heavily dependent on the handloom industry. However, material availability and sourcing remain the biggest challenges to the handloom sector.

Thankfully, the Handloom department have been conducting and overseeing Government’s budgetary support through a combination of subsidy and margin money schemes so as to further boost raw material procurement.

Various finance schemes formulated by the Central Government have also been implemented by the Directorate to enhance the working capital of handloom organisations. As far as the price front is concerned, the Directorate of Handlooms mediates through the mill gate price system.

With Regional Handloom Expos that are held from time to time especially during Onam, Christmas and calendar festivals of Kerala, the craftsmanship

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

www.metromartdaily.com

December 2015

METRO FOCUS

Whispers from the Past The heavy, intricately engraved wooden door leading to the Manuscript Library of the century old Oriental Research Institute and Manuscript Library located in Thiruvananthapuram is unlocked and slowly pushed open.

A heady concoction of the scents of lemongrass oil and ancient parchment greets you.

You remove your footwear in reverence and gingerly step into the large hall filled with rows and rows of age-old manuscripts, preserved in massive wooden shelves. As your bare feet touch the cold wooden floor, a heavy sigh filled with awe escapes your lips.

Before you, in an expanse of over 40,000 bundles of manuscripts covering over 65,000 separate works,

60

December 2015

sleeps our history, culture and heritage.

was appointed the first curator of this library.

The story of Oriental Research Institute and Manuscript Library functioning under the University of Kerala began in 1908, when a new library department was founded by the royalty of erstwhile Travancore. It was formed for the publication of rare and old Sanskrit manuscripts. TharuvaiAgraharam Ganapati Sastri

In his endeavour to expand the library’s collection, Ganapati Sastri frequently went on long trips in search of manuscripts in private possession. On one such journey, he stumbled upon the lost plays of Bhasa, the great dramatist of the first century BCE. He found them at Manalikkara Madom near Kanyakumari.

Until then, Bhasa,

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

www.metromartdaily.com

December 2015

known only through the references made by later dramatists such as Kalidasa was considered a figment of imagination. But this one incident threw open a new window to the history of literature. This discovery gave to the world ten of Bhasa’s long lost plays and brought the library into the spotlight.

Today, more than a century later, the library is the largest of its kind in the country. Situated inside the Kariavattom campus of the University of Kerala, the building the library is housed in is in itself a testimony for the richness of our heritage.

A vast majority of the manuscripts preserved at the Oriental Research Institute and Manuscript Library have been penned on palm leaves. To make each manuscript the green leaves of either the Kudappana (Corypha

62

December 2015

umbraculifera) or the Karimppana (Borasus flabellifer) palm trees were cut, dried in the shade, boiled in a mixture of milk and turmeric powder and treated again before they were used like paper. The treated leaves were then taken one at a time and painstakingly inscribed.

The most common way of writing on palm leaves was by making scratches or incisions on its surface with a stylus or a sharp object. Carbon was then sprinkled on each leaf to make the letters legible.

Thus was created on palm leaves, entire historical texts.

The Manuscript Library houses over 40,000 bundles of such meticulously created manuscripts. As you stroll down the rows of manuscripts, you can’t help but wonder at the pain and effort that had gone into creating every

single page.

What surrounds you are not just palm leaves with etchings on them. But rather, each of them has congealed within the fine markings, bits and pieces of the writer’s soul.

Visiting Hours: Students and research scholars may use the library for reference by presenting an official letter. The general public and other visitors may visit the library on payment of the requisite entry fee. The timings are from 11 am to 3 pm.

Contact Details: Oriental Research Institute and Manuscript Library, University of Kerala, Kariavattom Campus, Thiruvananthapuram Kerala - 695581 Telephone: +91 471 2305994, 2386228, 2305840

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

www.metromartdaily.com

December 2015

FOCUS EVENT

Kerala expects surge in Belgium tourists this season Close on the heels of its successful foray into the outbound tourism markets of Japan and Poland, Kerala Tourism is poised to host Belgian tourists in droves during this season, with leading tour operators and travel agents in that west European nation showing interest in the traditional wellness systems and scenic grandeur of ‘God’s Own Country’.

A road show organized

partners from Kerala who

by Kerala Tourism in the

were led by the state’s

Belgian capital of Brussels

Tourism Director Shri PI

Kerala’s Tourism Minister

drew a huge response,

Sheik Pareeth.

Shri AP Anilkumar said the

with delegates from the host nation enquiring about the state’s famed Ayurveda system of medicine and backwaters along the Arabian Coast.

The chief guest at the function was Indian Ambassador to Belgium, Shri Manjeev Singh Puri, who is also to the country’s diplomat to

market.

state was “overwhelmed” by the high attendance at the Brussels road show.

“This makes it clear that Belgium is an emerging market for Kerala Tourism,” he added.

As many as 73 prominent

Luxembourg and the

tour operators and travel

European Union. In

In 2014, Belgian Tourist

operators attended the

his speech, Shri Puri

arrivals to Kerala totalled

November 10 Brussels

appreciated Kerala

11,986. Overall, the

event that was also

Tourism’s promotional

pertinent figures show a

attended by 18 trade

efforts in the Belgian

65.13% growth in the past

64

December 2015

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

five years.

Pointing this out, Shri Pareeth noted that the Belgian delegates were keen to learn more about Kerala Tourism’s products such as houseboats and trekking along its evergreen forests.

“Their curiosity to grasp in depth about each of our highlights was striking. It

airports in Kochi and

Kairali Ayurvedic Healing

Thiruvananthapuram.

Village, Kerala Voyages,

Brussels is well connected

Pioneer Personalized

with Kerala, thanks

Holidays, Poovar Island

to flight connectivity.

Resort, RAXA Collective,

Qatar Airways, which

Somatheeram Ayurveda,

was the partner airlines

Somatheeram Ayurvedic

for the Kerala event in Brussels, has offered two complimentary return tickets to Kerala for a lucky draw winner at the event.

bureaucrat.

Hotel, Paul Resorts, Thomas Hotels & Resorts and Vythiri Resort.

A month ago, Kerala

is an increasingly positive sign for us,” said the top

Health Resort, T&U Leisure

Tourism held a similar The Kerala firms which participated in the

road show in the Polish capital of Warsaw, making

Already, Belgian tourists

Brussels show were

its foray into Eastern

are entitled to enjoy the

Abad Hotels, All Seasons,

Europe which is the

advantage of issuance

Carmelia Haven, CHG

fastest-growing economic

of ‘Visa on Arrival’ after

Earth, Eastend Hotels,

region in the whole of that

touching down at the

Intersight Tours & Travels,

continent.



www.metromartdaily.com

December 2015

T he L ast L eaf Turbulent Global markets, falling oil and gold prices, Eurozone crises, conflicts in Syria – Is this all we have to think about 2015? Of course not! We had Nepal earthquake which rattled many in Bihar, we have beef politics to argue about, we had Gurdaspur attacks to condemn, and we had Chennai floods which left us to mourn for over 340 dead.

Put your mind to it! There is a lot more we can discuss about. Religious freedom and pluralism – whether in America, in other parts of the world or still closer to home? Well ...... let’s wait and see how it unfolds.

Anyways, are these what we should remember? The answer is Yes and No. Yes, for the blunders that lead up to it and learning not to repeat them. No, because it is emotional baggage; so leave it back.

Think of whose words and deeds should be instilled in our minds. R.K.Laxman, G. Karthikeyan, Jayakanthan, Sister Nirmala, M.S. Viswanathan, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam are some of those who departed us in the year 2015.

Now again I say, focus your mind on achievements. We had three major elections in 2015, with 2 decisive verdicts, showing the potential of common man. We saw US President Barack Obama being the Chief Guest at our Republic Day celebrations. We saw K.V. Kamath being appointed as the President of New Development Bank operated by BRICS countries. In Sports field, India has won several laurels in this year. Agni-V and Astra were test fired showing off our nation’s military might. ISRO successfully launched GSAT-6. Achievements’ list continues.....

Look at that, we have a lot to cheer for too. So let’s collect all the positives from 2015 and safely tuck it in our minds. Of course, we should also cherish the sweet moments we had with our loved ones – be it children, parents, spouse, anyone – in this year.

For the year 2016, each one of us should try to think beyond ourselves. In every decision that we make, think of the benefit to others, if any. Or can it be done in such a way to benefit others too. Create circumstances to do good to others, especially for those who doesn’t have any opportunities.

Let not our life be going, going ....., gone!

And surely let not us be lived, lived ....., left!

Am I right? Let me know at sevenv2011@gmail.com

V Viswanath Sub Editor

66

December 2015

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

www.metromartdaily.com

December 2015

68

December 2015

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