Metro Mart December 2016

Volume 6 Issue 5

December 2016 `40

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

Y D A E T YS READ ...

ET puram S T E G vanantha u @Thir

I love Trivandrum & I feel at home Saptaparna Chakraborty www.metromartdaily.com

December 2016

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happy new year 2017 Hi Readers Maybe this New Year is going to be the one that fulfills all your dreams and so start it with a joyful and a vibrant soul! Here’s wishing you a prosperous new year!

The December brings forth a festive spirit to the regular Metro Mart Magazine with a Santa cap on it and lots of exciting and fun activities awaiting your presence. Picking up the best from the city, we are bringing you the most of travel and tourism, festivals, celebrations and progress of the place filled with New Year hopes and aspirations.

Foreword

Gurucharanam Saranam

But as Thiruvananthapuram is filled with diversity of culture, tourism and heritage we bring to you the varied aspects of living here. What it takes to make a city ‘smart’, Saptaparna Chakraborty talking about her love for the place, the Heritage’s tourism award distribution by the Chief Minister, the curtain raiser of the largest art festival of south i.e. Kochi Muziris Biennale and of course the news of happenings of Vyapar meet 2017 to be held in Hyderabad.

From cooking to fashion we have curated the best for you in our much celebrated issue of December!

May the New year be brighter than the one gone by; enveloped in goodness, well being, bliss and wealth.

Happy Reading! https://www.facebook.com/sijicn https://twitter.com/sijicn www.linkedin.com/in/siji-nair

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December 2016

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Siji Nair Managing Editor & Director

It is with the hope to rise and shine that we see our coming year wrapped in beautiful times and dreams of progressing towards a better tomorrow. The issue covers an exclusive list of all the best places to visit during the New Year times along with giving you a personal space to re-plan and re-schedule all the New Year resolutions and goals.

December 2016

CO N TE N TS

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New Year, Fresh Start!

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Ready- Steady- Get- Set

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Government to find a permanent venue for the Biennale: Chief Minister

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Virtual Reality Kiosk @Delhi Airport

mart Corporate Office:Metro Mart Thiruvananthapuram Mera 44, Eanthivila Lane, Murinjapalam, Medical College P.O., Thiruvananthapuram – 695011, Kerala, India

Volume 6 Issue 5 December 2016 www.metromartdaily.com Read our e-edition-www.issuu.com/metromart Annual Subscription Rs 400 C-507, Wisteria Fortune, Bhumkar Chowk Marunji Road Near New Poona Bakery, Wakad, Pune - 411057 India

Web: www.metromartdaily.com ; E magazine-http://issuu.com/metromart email: metromart.tvm@gmail.com • Contact-+0471 4015593/6566560/91-9947733339/9995139933 PUNE I BANGALORE I KOLKATA I KOCHI 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 th e 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 December 2016 METRO mart accept any responsibilities for any errors or omissions. © All Rights Reserved RNI No: KERENG/2011/40037

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Publisher Hari Shanker hari@martinfotech.in

Editor V. Viswanath

Managing Editor & Director Siji Nair sijicn@gmail.com

Lead Creative Chetan Kumbhar GM Sales Sibu Nair

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Editorial Assistant Ampili Nair Nazia Ali Arnab Mondal Promod Pillai Business Development Manager Ratheesh Kumar Sajith Sadasivan December 2016

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December 2016

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December 2016

COV E R F E A T U R E

specific or broad goals, life style changes, attitudinal changes, financial habits, social habits, charity, skill acquisition and so on and so forth. The resolution can be as much on self-development as on development of one’s community or society. The resolution can be drawn in any manner according to one’s imagination and creativity. But having too many goals or areas in a New Year Resolution will never work for obvious reasons.

is that the majority of people fail to

The reality about New Year Resolutions

for 2017.

stick to their resolution, since they lose focus, enthusiasm or attention and get distractions or get higher priorities. But a sincere attempt to make a workable New Year resolution and live upto it in letter and spirit will definitely be greatly rewarding to an individual.

We will now have a look at various New Year Resolutions that can be made

New Year Resolutions 2017 More and more

NEW YEAR, FRESH START! The New Year is slowly ushering in. Every New Year gracefully walks into our life with a bouquet of exotically fragrant and colourful flowers, which are nothing but our aspirations, our hopes, our unfulfilled desires, our ambitions.

Reading good books

Spending time on social media

Acquisition of new skills

Procrastination

Book writing

Net surfing

Saving for future

Going to bed late

Eating fruits and vegetables

Junk foods

Meeting new people

Non-vegetarian food

Relaxing

Financial debts

Charity

Coffee and tea New Year Resolutions 2017

N.Vijayagopalan The dawn of a new year is the most ideal time for indulging in a retrospection and re-evaluating some of our life choices and practices. Making New Year resolutions at the beginning of a year which is a common practice in the western countries has now become very common in our country also among many individuals who take life seriously, irrespective of age or gender.

Many corporates also have the practice of making such resolutions at the beginning of a year, mostly the financial year, which will be disseminated to their workforce.

Making New Year Resolutions is a good thing, provided the one who makes it does it seriously and with all earnestness

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Less and less

and enthusiasm and strives to live up to what is resolved, maintaining the original tempo throughout. Of course, one is not losing anything by having a New Year Resolution, as it will at least give some focus or attention to some of the chosen areas or goals.

There are no hard and fast rules regarding making a New Year resolution. There is no universal content or format or structure as such for the resolution. Instead of weaving dreams in the air, one should make a resolution that would have significance in and add a meaning to one’s life. New Year Resolution can be on achievement of anything which is positive, on any

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

Resolution No.1 My First Goal for the New Year is …………………………………………………………….............

In order to reach this goal, I will ……………………………………………………………………..... ……………………………………………………………..............

Resolution No.2 My Second Goal for the New Year is …………………………………………………………….........

In order to reach this goal, I will ……………………………………………………………………. …………………………………………………………..........

Resolution No.3 My Third Goal for the New Year is …………………………………………………………….............

In order to reach this goal, I will ……………………………………………………………………........ …………………………………………………………………...........

My New Year Resolutions 2017 (The deficient areas to be borne in mind) This year I must without fail:Become a better human being.

Become a more tolerant person.

Get in shape. www.metromartdaily.com

Improve my concentration and mental skills.

Meet new people.

Become more confident and take some December 2016

chances.

Earn more money.

Become more polite.

Reduce stress.

Learn to be happier with my life.

Read more books.

Learn how to dress with style.

Spend more time with the people that matter.

Get out of debt.

Start saving money.

Learn a new language.

Volunteer and give more to charity.

Become more organized in life.

Travel more and see the world.

Learn to cook.

Learn how to be more self-reliant.

Start being more responsible.

Learn more about art, music, culture etc.

Spend less time on social media.

Become more social.

Start being more creative.

Start writing a book/journal.

Develop good healthy eating habits.

Stop smoking.

Start saving for future.

Learn music.

Give more to charity.

Increase the time spent for exercise.

Long Term New Year Resolution The above are suggested Resolutions only for the year. Those who want to make a transformation in life and make a big life changing New Year Resolution which will have relevance also in the years ahead, a Personal Growth Plan (PGP) as suggested below would be worthwhile. The PGP gives tremendous scope a for review at the beginning of every year.

Growth Plan (PGP) in all earnestness and will live up to it, as I am convinced that no individual will be able to realize his ambition, his goals to his satisfaction without having a well laid down PGP and I am no exception to it. I firmly resolve that I will remain wedded to my goals in life with a strong focus, untiring efforts and steadfastness and achieve them. I also resolve to make periodic reviews of my PGP and take the required course correction so as to face any challenge which I confront in my journey towards achievement of my goals.

New Year Resolution 2017 – My Personal Growth Plan I hereby make an unbreakable resolve to myself that I will take this Personal

Sr.No

My Specific Goals

When would I achieve them (By which year)

1

3 4 5

2…………………………………………………………..………………………………………………………......................

3…………………………………………………………..………………………………………………………......................

4…………………………………………………………..………………………………………………………......................

5…………………………………………………………….……………………………………………………….....................

I also resolve that I will adopt the following strategies and steps to overcome my deficiencies and acquiring the traits indispensable for success and for achieving my goas.

1……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………....

2………………………………………………………………………………………….…………………………………………...

3……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………....

4……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………....

5………………………………………………………………………………………..…………………………………………....

6………………………………………………………………………………………..…………………………………………....

7……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………....

8………………………………………………………………………………………..…………………………………………....

9………………………………………………………………………………………..…………………………………………....

10…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………....

To conclude, it would be worthwhile to go ahead and make a practical, sensible New Year Resolution for 2017 and live

6 7 December 2016

1………………………………………………………….……………………………………………………….......................

I once again firmly resolve to myself that I will overcome my deficiencies and acquire the traits indispensable for achievement of my goals and do full justice to this PGP to make a mark in life. I know that I have only one life to fulfil my ambitions.

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I believe that the following deficiencies are to be got corrected for achievement of my goals and I must ensure their getting corrected.

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upto it. And you must redraw / review it every year. You will definitely see yourself reaping rich benefits. Why don’t you try it out?

(The author Sri.N.Vijayagopalan is an exsenior Banker and author of the successful motivational-cum-self development book ‘The Architect and the Magician.)

December 2016

COV E R S T OR Y Trivene with personalities like Liz Brown, talented Mohandas and DJ Strawz. It is the ultimate destination for good food, good music and a perfect place to enjoy with your loved ones and socialize. Being one of the best chains of hotels, Vivanta’s Trivene offers you good ambience and food so that you start your new year with a big splash.

A lucky couple gets to win a trip to Dubai and a lucky ticket holder gets to hold a Brand new I-Phone 7.

Ready- Steady- Get- Set 2017@Thiruvananthapuram Thiruvananthapuram gets ready to welcome the festival of bliss and open its arms to embrace the New Year. Metro Mart brings to you the best happenings of the city.

Ramya Ramakrishnan ramya.ramakrishnan.rr@gmail.com New Year brings in new hopes, new dreams and aspirations with it.

Tiruvananthapuram also plans to celebrate the start of 2017 in style. The city is buzzing with events that will brighten up Christmas and New Years Eve for its

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residents. These events are the catalyst that brings in happy and blissful time into your lives. Christmas and New Year bring people together. This festive season get ready to witness a gala time from the best organizers.

Enter 2017 in Style with Trivene Is there a better way to kick start the year than celebrating it with your best in one of the best events in town? Vivanta by Taj presents its New Year bash

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

You can also enjoy fabulous dinners, unforgettable parties, memorable brunches, special cakes and hampers, delectable cuisines and much more, starting from December 15th to January 1st, 2017. Events like Caramel (December 15th, 2016 to January 1st, 2017), Fifth Element (December 20, 2016 to January 1, 2017), Twist which is a live band performance (25th December and 31st December),Chinapolis (24th, 25th and 31st December 2016) New Year Bash, The Egyptian style with Vivanta By Taj Green Clove Kovalam www.metromartdaily.com

The next big event of the year is yet another extravagant bash by Vivanta with fun filled great events that will keep you entertained and lip smacking delicacies that will leave you craving for more. Get ready to party in Egyptian style with authentic Egyptian music and special performances like Mohiniattam, Belly Dance, Bollywood dance.

Special gifts also await few lucky guests.

New Year Programmes at Vivanta by Taj, Trivandrum Welcome the season in style with the very best you ever dreamt of. Fabulous dinners, unforgettable parties, memorable brunches, special cakes and hampers, delectable cuisines and much more, starting from December 15 to January 1, 2017 Hilton Gardens December Bonanza- 31 Happy days With festive waves crashing around, Hilton Garden Inn Trivandrum has prepped up for its month long festive promotions. Flashing the theme to be ’31 days of Happiness’ Hiltons are paving the way to happiness for those who

like parties and are a true foodie. Scheduled to be held from 1st of December to 31st of December, the event is the right place to blow off some steam and savour delicacies from across the country.

Saturday stores for you a flavorful venture with the street food like Vada Paavs, Nizami Paratha Rolls, Kothu Parathas and Thattu Dosas.

A journey through blissful aromas of Indian street food awaits you at Hilton Garden Inn. The whole week is designed to satiate the desire of fine wine and dine.

The Sunday brunch offers a range of lip smacking ethnic cuisine including Kerala cuisine, North Indian, Oriental and western food varieties.

A palette customized to suit all kinds of taste buds.

An experience with these diverse cuisines is all one would long for.

Hilton Garden has amazing events and buffet planned for Christmas Eve (Brunch and Dinner) and a Grander New Year Dinner. Hilton Garden Inn is an upscale yet affordable place to enjoy the season best.

December 2016

Celebrating 2017 with Lake Palace Get ready to celebrate the magical New Years Eve with Lake Palace. The event is an exceptional presentation of grandeur with mesmerizing performance by Rimi tomy’s band, Bollywood dances, DJ Hary Nair and an appetizing New Year Dinner. Feast your eyes over the firework show with your close ones.

This extravaganza is too tempting to miss.

New Beginning’s with Apollo Dimora Celebrate this new beginning in style by being a part of Dimoras musical night filled with good music, dance, food and lots of entertainment. There is no better way to start this year than sharing this bliss with Apollo Diomora family.

Dimora’s musical night will make sure you enter 2017 with the experience of your lifetime. The night also presents performance from Nandu Leo, the talented western vocalist. You can also groove to the tunes of Saptak, a collaboration of 5 creative musicians and singers. No show can be complete without a touch of magic, Preet , the Magician would

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December 2016

leave no stones unturned to amaze his spectators.

Activities like tarot card reading and caricature adds to fun of the event.

Dimora’s musical night offers complete package of fine dine with mind refreshing entertainment that we enjoyed with our loved ones. The alcohol free event promises to enchant its guests with their best.

SP Grand Days Festive Feast SP Grand Days have organized an exotic feast for their guest this festive season. Enjoy the hotels ambience and luxury with your family and friends. You can treat your taste buds to tantalizing flavors and aromas by spending you Christmas afternoon with SP Grand Days. The event also has to offer cinematic dance, games, gifts and a lot more.

Vegas 2017 by The Quilon Beach side hotel is grand New Year celebration on the beach side of the city.

The celebration along with the location makes it totally happening event to be in this New Year. The amazing dance performances and enchanting music will make the time worthwhile for your loved ones. The event also comprises of games, surprise gifts and much more.

The New Year Countdown with Ruby Arena This New Year, Ruby arena along with happy group presents The New year eve bash, a delightful event with games, music, shows and much more. The evening will be brightened with mesmerizing compositions and soulful music by Gayak. Children will be entertained by amusing games and magic show.

The New Year event is themed on colorful Arabic nights. SP Grand Days New Year event will thrill you and make you New Year an amazing affair. The events will defiantly help you make a grand entry into 2017.

The delicious spreads of food will add the spice to the evening

Beach Side Bash with The Quilon Beach Side Hotel

Let’s make this New Year count. Happy Holidays!

Ruby arena’s New Year bash is the perfect way to spend a quality time with the people you care for the most.

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

SP Grand Days Christmas Lunch and New Year Bash

Christmas lunchMenu -02 soups, 05 Non veg ,09Veg, 10 salads,10 Desserts, Appam Roti & NaanRate - 650 INR -net.

New Year eve Rate- 3500 INR - Per Couple

Contact- 97450 00690

Vivanta By Taj Green Clove Kovalam

Couple Entry : Special Price @ INR 9500 INR per couple including taxes, Rack price at @INR10500 INR including tax per couple Girl Stag : INR 6000 INR per person including taxes, Male stag : INR 7500 INR per person including taxes, Kid : up to 6 year complimentary, 06-12 year 4500 per child, Contact 9037200100

Vivanta by Taj Trivandrum

Dec. 31: New Year Eve Gala Dinner Jan. 1: New Year Brunch & Festivity Dinner

Apollo Dimora’s Musical Night

Couple- 3000 INR - only Stag- 2000 INR -only Kids- 1000 INR only Contact: 80876097233

LAKE PALACE

Couple entry-4500 INR Stag Entry-2500 INR - Kids Entry-1000 INR Contact-8606328811

New Years Eve Dinner

Chinapolis

Dec. 24, 25 & 31: Special Festive Menu For bookings, please contact us on 0471 6612345. Extn 56

Hilton Gardens

Christmas eve Brunch and Dinner Non-Alcoholic Buffet- 1499 INR+ Taxes Alcoholic Buffet-2099 INR + Taxes Kids -749 INR -+ Taxes www.metromartdaily.com

Non-Alcoholic: 1999 INR -+taxes Alcoholic: 2599 INR -+taxes Kids: 899 INR -+taxes Contact: 918111886843

Vegas 2017 by The Quilon Beach Side Hotel

Couple: 2999 INR Stag: 1999 INR Kids: 999 INR Contact: 9447783716

December 2016

ON F A C E

I love Thiruvananthapuram

Your parents being from a non musical background, what is it that drove you to pursue your passion for music?

& I feel at home being there

‘

‘‘In conversation with Saptaparna Chakroborty, the melodious voice behind “Manathu Udichatu”.

Read on as she opens up about her journey into the world of music, her experience in working with musical legends, future projects and much more.

’

Well, I very much belong to a musical family & 4 generations that I know are inclined to music, the greatest inspirers being my grand parents,parents & aunts. Specially my paternal aunt is a B High artist in All India Radio.

My parents have been my greatest inspiration & support to pursue my dream of becoming a singer. While most of my classmates chose to be doctors & engineers, I chose to chase my dream -MUSIC. How has your journey from being from a contestant in Amul Star Voice of India to a singing sensation in South transformed you?

I was the first runner up of Amul Star Voice of India 2(2008). VOI opened a galaxy of opportunities for me in both Bollywood & regional film industries like Bhojpuri,Bengali etc.

It was during that time in Mumbai when I got to

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December 2016

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work with music icons like Sukhwinder Singh, Pritam & Ismail Darbar. I realised that it is quintessential for a singer to know the tech-side of playback and I decided to take training in Sound Engineering, for which I have relocated to Chennai. After coming to Chennai,I tried developing my knowledge in South Indian film music,especially Tamil & Malayalam & this has paid off well.

“Manathudichathu” from the Mammotty starrer Immanuel was my first Malayalam song composed by Afzal Yusuff, followed by “ASK Me” from Aaru Sundarimarude Katha composed by Deepak Dev, “Thaane Pookum” from Prithviraj starrer Sapthamasree Thaskaraha composed by Rex Vijayan etc. are some of my Malayalam hits.

It was Ilaiyaraaja sir who gave me the first opportunity in Tamil with the song “Kaalayile Maalai Vanthathu” from the movie Chitthirayil Nila Choru.

When I look back,the transformation from being a contestant of VOI to a

playback singer has been thrilling,with 20+ film songs, 50+ devotional songs & more than 100 albums to my credit.

What helped you overcome the language barrier and rise to be the one of the promising female playback singer in south?

Well,I would like to give the full credit to my husband Vishnu Hareendrakumar,who is a native of Trivandrum, for instilling interest in me to learn Tamil & Malayalam & also to better understand the in-depth meaning of the lyrics that I come across.

Now I feel very comfortable singing in all the South Indian languages including Telugu & Kannada. Infact my friends get puzzled visiting my home,listening to both of us converse in Malayalam to Bangla to Tamil to English to Hindi.

Ha ha haaa...

With “Malarkodi Pole” becoming viral in social media you have become a Malayali household, how was your experience recording such a legendary

December 2016

song composed by another Bengali Maestro Salil Chaudhary?

The idea behind doing a cover of this evergreen song was given by my teacher Shri Iyer Venkat & I was excited to find a Bengali-Malayali connect in this. “Bhalo laage na” is the Bengali version of “Malarkodi pole” & is a very familiar song amongst Bengalis.

I had no idea that my version of this song would be loved by millions of people. I am a huge fan of Shri Salil Choudhury & this success inspires me to do more of his compositions in the future too. Happy to say that I also got appreciation from famous music directors Shri M. Jayachandran & Shri Debojyoti Mishra for this rendition. I think “ Malarkodi pole” is an example that proves music has got no barriers!

A Bengali by birth, now you are the Daughter-in-Law of Thiruvananthapuram, how do you feel about it? How the new home is different from your old?

I love Thiruvananthapuram & I feel at home being there.

My husband and myself always find similarities in

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both the cultures & this has helped us to equally cope-up with these very easily. We celebrate all the festivities of both Malayalis & Bengalis from Onam to Durga Puja.

Your experience with Music Maestros from South?

I have had the privilege to work with the music maestros like Ilaiyaraaja sir, Ouseppachan sir, Harris Jayaraj sir, M. Jayachandran sir, Deepak Dev sir. However singing for Raja sir was a dream come true. One day I was called to his studio in Chennai for a voice test. I already was extremely tensed and seeing him I got even more nervous. Then he asked “sing something”, to which I sang a Meera Bhajan of Lataji’s. I was trembling out of nervousness & somehow finished singing the song. Right then he asked his vocal arranger Vasu sir to give me a solo song for his upcoming movie. I recorded my first song for Raja sir that day & since then I have sung many of his compositions.

The experience that day is still so exhilarating & has been one of my favourite

memories of all time.

What are your future projects and plans?

I have been doing quite a few recordings in Hindi & Bengali apart from the South Indian languages.

Couple of albums as well as movie songs are going to be released very soon.

I also have a band called Black n White-The Band & we are producing a lot of music videos & also doing concerts. Looking forward to do more & more of playback as well as concerts & entertain people through my art.

Your message to the cityite’s of Thiruvananthapuram?

As I told earlier, I love each & every bit about Trivandrum. The people,the exotic food & ofcourse the way this city is maintained.

The serene beauty & the uphill roads remind me of Shillong,Meghalaya. My humble request to all the good people in the city is to maintain it the way it is.

LET THE GREENS NEVER GO GREY!!

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December 2016

S HOP P I NG

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Over the last more than one-and-a-half decade its reach has extended to all fields of weighing operations such as manufacturing, packaging,

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material processing, logistics, and supply chain management. Their list of clients includes around 200 prestigious brand leaders across the state.

The proprietor Harish R. believes in maintaining excellent custo State Legal Metrology Department.

Accurate Trade Links has strong application and engineering support

transport, supermarkets, pharmaceuticals, laboratories, etc.

to be Number 1 electronic weighing scale distributors in Thiruvananthapuram.

The large showroom and service centre of Accurate Trade Links in Thiruvananthapuram has ISO and ISI branded machines with over 500 models of weighing scales in the range of .000001g to 100 ton capacity providing a variety of quantifying methods for the market. The Legal Metrology Approvals for their models and the client endorsements has led them

The latest addition to Accurate Trade Links’ machines is the ATL POS designed for weighing and cash control in the open retail market. This includes Barcode Label Printing Scale and Electronic Cash Register Scale. Electronic Cash Register Scale is an integrated facility for traders which encompass Weighing Scale, Cash Register and Thermal Printer. The models are compatible with LAN, SQL

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USB feature too is enabled in this model. Apart from this, Accurate Trade Links provides refined products which are customized to client requirements. Their line of scales includes Tabletop, Platform, Bench, Hanging, Laboratory, Industrial and other Premium Models.

Accurate Trade Links provides a one-stop solution for all weighing scale requirements for traders and individuals alike.

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December 2016

AWA R D the help of the cooperative sector,” said the Tourism Minister.

Excise and Labour Minister Shri T P Ramakrishnan delivered the keynote address at the ceremony.

Connect State’s Heritage with Tourism Sector CM Pinarayi Vijayan The state tourism sector targets to create 4 lakh jobs: Tourism Minister Chief Minister Shri Pinarayi Vijayan presented the State Tourism Awards for 201415 underlining the need for connecting Kerala’s heritage and culture to the tourism sector.

history to the world map,” said the Chief Minister while delivering the inaugural address of the Sargaalayaa International Arts and Crafts Festival at Iringal

Speaking at the event held in Kozhikode, he said “International and domestic tourists should get the experience of Kerala products, heritage and culture to enhance the sector. And this can be achieved only by connecting Kerala’s traditional industries with the sector. Tourism is a gateway to take the state’s

He also said that the revamped Kozhikode Airport and the Kannur Airport, which will start its functioning soon, will boost tourism in the Malabar area.

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A high powered committee under the chairmanship of Tourism Principal Secretary Dr Venu V picked 27 winners under three

categories for the tourism awards.

Tourism Minister Shri Kadakampally Surendran, who presided over the event, said that the state tourism sector targets to create 4 lakh jobs in next five years.

Marvel Tours won the award for best in-bound tour operator. Crowne Plaza, Kochi, bagged the top award for five star deluxe hotel, while Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel and Spa bagged the best five star hotel award.

Spice Village in Thekkady, has been adjudged best four star hotel and Marari Beach in Alappuzha won the top three star hotel award. Coconut Lagoon, Kumarakom, took the best heritage hotel award.

Somatheeram Research Institute and Ayurveda Hospital won the award for the best Ayurveda

Centre, while Coconut Creek Farm and Homestay at Kumarakom won the best homestay award. The award for the best serviced villa went to Teak Town, Malappuram.

The award for the best hotel manager went to Jaya Chitra of Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort and Sanjay Kaushik of Crowne Plaza, while Munnar Catering College pocketed the award for the best tourism management institute.

The special recognition for new initiatives in tourism for this year went to Joseph K of Malappuram for ‘Adventure on Wheels’ initiative while Somatheeram Ayurveda Group and The Travel Planners from Thiruvananthapuram won the award for the best use of IT in Tourism.

The Best Adventure

Tourism Award went to Kalypso Adventures.

Some other awards were the best tourism police award for Sanal Kumar A G; best tourism lifeguard for Mahesan C and best tourism destination for Sargaalaya Kerala Arts and Crafts Village, Iringal.

Dr K C Krishnakumar, Chief Sub Editor, Mathrubhumi won the award for best tourism related report while Arun Sreedhar, Chief Photographer, Malayala Manorama won for best tourism photography.

St Xavier’s College for Women, Aluva, was adjudged for best tourism club award.

K Dasan MLA delivered the welcome address. Kerala Tourism Principal Secretary Dr Venu V and Tourism Director Shri U V Jose were among the host of dignitaries at the event.

“With many innovative initiatives, Kerala has already grabbed a space on the world tourism map.

The government is planning to identify and develop 79 new destinations in the state apart from creating more model tourism villages. This will be with

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December 2016

AWA R D

AWA R D

The Travel Planners wins State Tourism Award

Wins the Kerala State Tourism Award for the “Best Five Star Hotel” Year 2014-15

Recognition for ‘Most Innovative Use of Information Technology in Tourism Sector’ With more than three lakh views on a short YouTube video on tourism in Kerala, The Travel Planners has shown that it knows a thing or two about reaching out to people thorugh internet.

The national award-winning tour operator were entitled with the ‘Most Innovative use of Information Technology in Tourism Sector’ at the Kerala State Tourism Awards.

use of cutting edge technology for promotion and interaction on Kerala with prospective global customers.

The award function was held at the Sargaalaya Kerala Arts & Crafts Village in Iringal, Vadakara.

“The number of tourists booking their holiday packages online has been steadily on the upswing in recent years and we have taken several steps to scale up our promotions through social media and web promotions to get maximum visibility in the digital space,” said Anish Kumar, CEO of The Travel Planners.

The award is a huge recognition of The Travel Planners’ user-friendly presence and innovative

“We also use social media to encourage people to interact with the social media pages more and

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December 2016

Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel & Spa

gain more information about tourism, culture, lifestyle, sustainability, and responsible tourism across the state and the nation through images, fun facts and informative posts,” he added.

The tour operator, which started operations in 1999, offers tailor-made tour packages for South India with different websites catering to various segments of tourism, such as keralatourpackages.com for family holiday packages, www.keralahoneymoon. com for honeymoon packages and www.indiaayurveda.com for wellness holidays.

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Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel & Spa has been awarded for the “Best Five Star Hotel” by the Govt of Kerala; Dept of Tourism Uday Samudra has been selected as the best hotel in Kerala under various categories for the last five years by the Tourism Dept. The Chief Minister presented the award to Shri.Rajasekharan Nair, CMD, Managing Director Mrs.Radha Nair & CEO Mr. Raja Gopaal Iyer of UDS group in a colorful www.metromartdaily.com

function held at Kerala Arts and Craft Village, Iringal, Kozhikode on 18th December 2016.

Recently Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel & Spa, was awarded the South Asian Travel Award (SATA) – 2016 at the prestigious ceremony held at Mount Lavinia Hotel, Srilanka.

Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel & Spa branded as UDS & its other

properties are Uday Suites, the only four star Airport hotel in Trivandrum, Uday Sky kitchen, catering to Major Airline companies, UDS group is growing enormously in Indian Hospitality sector with its upcoming projects, Hotel & Convention Centre with 2500 seating capacity plus 75 rooms near the Golf links, Trivandrum, Backwater resort in Alleppey right by the punnamada lake & a resort for peace lovers at Wagamon.

December 2016

E VE N T S CAN host of visual artists from 36 countries.

The Chief Minister of Kerala, Shri Pinarayi Vijayan, inaugurated KMB 2016 at an official opening ceremony at Parade Ground in Fort Kochi on December 12. Prior to the evening function, a flag hoisting at primary venue Aspinwall House signaled the grand opening of India’s only Biennale.

In keeping with the artistic vision of its curator, eminent artist Sudarshan Shetty, KMB 2016 seeks to question the labels attributed to and blur the lines between various modes of artistic expression.

The tone had been set as early as last year with the announcement of iconic Chilean poet-revolutionary Raul Zurita as the Biennale’s ‘first artist’.

Kochi-Muziris Biennale Begins Final list for KMB 2016 includes 97 artists working across diverse modes of artistic expression The curtains have risen for the largest celebration of contemporary art in South Asia, the third edition of the Kochi-Muziris Biennale (KMB). Titled ‘Forming in

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the pupil of an eye’, the Biennale will run for 108 days till 29/03/17.

Over that near-four month period, KMB 2016 will feature the performances

and production of 97 artists, cutting across disciplines, forms and styles. The final list includes writers, dancers, poets, musicians and theatre practitioners along with a

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There are 36 Indian artists from across the country participating in the Biennale, including some of the leading lights of their respective crafts.

KMB 2016 will feature works by master cartoonist E.P. Unny, eminent Malayalam litterateur Anand, renowned graphic artist Orijit Sen, stage performances by www.metromartdaily.com

Anamika Haksar and Kalakshetra Manipur, Sangam poetry recitals, dance performances and printmaking, among other artistic mediums.

“The final list of artists is but a sampling of the richness and range to be found along the art spectrum. The coming together of, and the conversations between, their diverse approaches, sensibilities, practices, creations and performances as they unfold in Kochi will showcase to the world what the ‘People’s Biennale’ is all about,” Shetty said.

The main exhibition — spread across 11 venues in Fort Kochi-Mattancherry and Ernakulam — will be supported by an ancillary programme of events that includes the Students’ Biennale (SB), a unique exhibitory platform for the works of over 350 young artists from 55 schools across the country and a core component in the Kochi Biennale Foundation’s art education and outreach efforts. The second edition of the SB will be inaugurated by Prof C. Raveendranath, Minister for Education, Government of Kerala, on December 13.

As well, there are

conversations, talks, seminars, the Art By Children and the Pepper House Residency exhibitions, workshops, film screenings and music sessions, among other activities.

These are a significant aspect of the multifaceted programme presented by the Biennale. They showcase the efforts of the KBF’s year-round education and outreach activities – made possible with the support of corporate CSR programmes, institutional partners and individual patrons – to augment art education for emerging artists of all ages and foster inclusive debate and discussion on contemporary art.

The Biennale will use as venues restored heritage properties, reclaimed formerly overgrown locations, once-dilapidated godowns, public spaces, and galleries. The venues for KMB 2016 include Aspinwall House, Cabral Yard, Pepper House, David Hall, Durbar Hall, Kashi Art Café, Kashi Art Gallery, M.A.P. Warehouse, Anand Warehouse and T.K.M. Warehouse.

December 2016

E VE N T S CAN heritage and multi-layered cultural tapestry.

Government to find a permanent venue for the Biennale: Chief Minister The Chief Minister, inaugurating KMB 2016, said it was important to develop Biennale further Noting that the lack of a permanent venue for the Kochi-Muziris Biennale (KMB) was a serious issue, Honourable Chief Minister of Kerala Shri Pinarayi Vijayan said the state government would implement a project to provide a home to India’s only Biennale.

Speaking at the inauguration of the KMB’s third edition today, 12/12/16, at Parade Ground, Fort Kochi, the Chief Minister said that the Biennale had gained significant credibility in the international contemporary art world and the government was looking to

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develop it along the lines of the Venice Biennale.

“The ancient history of Kochi is marked with adventure and the idea to organise the Biennale here tells us that there is adventure in its present too. Just as the Biennale created history in Kochi, a permanent venue for the Biennale will also create history,” he said.

“Already, the LDF government has allocated a sum of Rs 7.5 crore in its budget to organise the Biennale. This is the highest ever funding allotted to an art event by a state government in

India,” Shri Vijayan said, pointing out that the concept for the Biennale was announced in 2010 – during the tenure of the previous Left government, which had sanctioned the first disbursement of funds towards the event’s operational expenses.

“Though the Biennale is primarily an art event, it has economic and social benefits too. It has energised the tourism sector. The statistics show that lakhs of cultural enthusiasts surged to Kochi from around the different corners of the world to view the first two editions.

Both Kochi and Kerala benefit from this influx,” he said.

to interact with foreign artists,” Shri Surendran said.

Kochi Mayor Smt. Soumini Jain was also present at the function as were Shri K.J. Maxy MLA and Shri John Fernandes. Also in attendance were Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Smt. Nalini Netto, Dr Venu V., Principal Secretary (Tourism) and Ernakulam District Collector Shri Mohammed Y. Safirulla K.

The inauguration ceremony also saw in attendance Honourable Minister for Tourism Shri Kadakampally Surendran and former Minister for Culture Shri M.A. Baby.

Lulu Group founder and Managing Director Padma Shri M.A. Yousuf Ali, a committed long-term patron of the Biennale, pledged Rs two crore to the next edition of the KochiMuziris Biennale.

“The Biennale has become a pilgrimage site for art lovers around the globe and it has become a space for artists from Kerala

KMB 2016 curator Sudarshan Shetty outlined his artistic vision for the Biennale. Kochi Biennale Foundation (KBF) President

Bose Krishnamachari delivered the vote of thanks while KBF Secretary Riyas Komu made the welcome speech.

“In a time of ideological and cultural upheavals, the Biennale is an inspirational force. The stories that the KMB tells us instills a sense of pride in culture and stokes our creativity,” Komu said.

KBF CEO Manju Sara Rajan was present as were a host of KBF Trustees and Patrons.

Prior to the inaugural function, a ‘chenda melam’ of 150 percussionists led

by Padma Shri Peruvanam Kuttan Marar welcomed the dignitaries and public to the venue. Following the ceremony, there was a concert by noted singer Suman Sridhar and The Black Mamba.

The Chief Minister termed the Biennale a gateway between Kerala and the world through which the diverse expressions of international art and culture move freely and are brought together under one umbrella. He also called Kochi the perfect place to host the Biennale owing to its rich cosmopolitan

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December 2016

E VE N T S CAN poetry recitals, seminars, film screenings and competitions. The entire rear side of the stage can be opened up, transitioning to the exterior seating.

Biennale Pavilion Marries Innovative Design Concept to Kerala Context KMB 2016 artist Tony Joseph’s Pavilion is both artwork and venue for array of Biennale events Rising from a clearing in the midst of trees in Cabral Yard, the Pavilion for Kochi-Muziris Biennale 2016 seems, at once, a part of and separate from its setting.

Designed by architect and participating artist Tony Joseph to serve as both a host for Biennale events and an artwork in itself, the Pavilion’s rugged exterior uses recycled debris and discarded materials from Fort Kochi. Inside the 4,157 sq ft structure, though, is an air-conditioned space that can accommodate 300 people and has a distinctly amphitheater feel.

“The design of the Pavilion tries to accentuate

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December 2016

our recollections and experiences of spaces, colors, textures, emotions and sensations and in the process, and rekindle our subconscious nostalgic references. It is also an exploration into recycling and reusing materials as a way to reduce the impact on the environment. Thus, there are a lot of tactile elements which coalesce to form the design.” Joseph said.

The design concept evolves from the context of the site, drawing parallels to the surrounding fabric of Fort Kochi, with its stock of dilapidated godowns and adaptively reused structures.

The ‘debris wall’ uses broken brickbats and stones, along with the earth dug from the site itself. Old sarees, collected from local households, intertwine with the trusses – made from reclaimed wood – that support the roof to create an ever shifting pattern of light and colours.

“The gallery-like seating inside is commonly found in the rural festivals and sporting venues of Kerala.

The overall design of the Pavilion as well as the interiors reference a lot of the regional elements to create the contextual rootedness,” Joseph said.

“For instance, one enters the Pavilion by moving through the transitionary space of the ‘Muttam’, a unique construct of traditional Kerala homes,

down into the womb of the earth and enters into the powerful interior space which indirectly references a traditional ‘Kalari’. The elements in the interiors further add to this sense of nostalgia by alluding to ideas from our cultural history, which are gradually being lost in the progress of time. Thus, the art is not separate from the architecture, but is integrally intertwined in the Pavilion,” he added.

Adding an element of public participation is an ongoing competition for young architects and designers to come up with a concept chair fashioned from old wooden chairs to be used

for the seating at the Pavilion.

The Biennale Pavilion is supported by Asian Paints with material support from Blue star Ltd. and TLC. Consulting on the project are The Cube Project, EC Centre, Alex Cyriac Associates and Design Spectrum.

Components were supplied

by Fero Ply, Cochin Granite International, Airdale Systems Pvt. Ltd., Kalyan Kendra, Mayamata Interiors, Kingspan Insulation, Excel int-ext Pvt. Ltd. Eximuz Technologies, Avani Institute of Design and Stapati Architects provided back-end support.

Bringing up the rear are temporary wooden galleries made of areca-nut planks.

Along the floor are rakings finished in a combination of lime and sand, which rise up unobtrusively toward the rear providing a clear line of sight to the raised stage at the front.

The multi-purpose stage will feature performances,

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December 2016

E VE N T S CAN

The Signature of Distinction

Biennale helped Kerala’s tourism offset Demonetisation crisis’: Tourism Secretary Terming the Kochi-Muziris Biennale (KMB) a “stellar example” of public private partnership, Kerala Tourism Principal Secretary Dr Venu V. said the Biennale had helped the state’s tourism sector offset the crisis brought on by demonetisation.

On a visit to the third edition of the Biennale in Fort Kochi on Monday, Dr Venu said the Rs 7.5 crore that the state government had allotted to the international contemporary art extravaganza in its budget was “money well spent”.

speaks volumes for what an event like this can do for tourism and for the economy of a city and state.

The government support created a base upon which the curator, the KBF and the Trustees could work on,” the Tourism Secretary said.

“When Kerala tourism had a crisis on its hands with the demonetisation policy affecting tourist arrivals, the Biennale has single-handedly created a unique economic zone that supported the tourism sector and brought money into the hands of the common man and local community,” he said.

Apart from its economic contributions and the quality of art on display, the magic of the Biennale has been the connections and sense of fraternity it has managed to form between individuals, communities, groups and institutions, he said.

“From a government point of view, I can’t think of a better investment. This

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December 2016

“This is not just about art or tourism. It is about the common man of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry and creating the sense of

ownership and involvement across sections of people.

It has become a model to follow,” Dr Venu said.

National Institute of Fashion Technology Director-General Sarada Muraleedharan also visited KMB 2016 on Monday and noted that the current edition of the Biennale has touched many thoughtprovoking subjects.

Likening the works to a “painting with several different stories put together”, she said, “The works at KMB 2016 is a reflection of many issues that is prevailing in the world. The themes I am seeing develop in this disconnected continuum are of disruption, disassociation, of pain, angst, loss and longing.”

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Shahir Esmail CEO

Three Seas Medical and Surgicals (P) Ltd

Three Seas Medical and Surgicals is one of the pioneering institutions in the state contributing to as well as benefitting from its robust healthcare potentials. For the last three years, it has been supplying medical disposables and distinctive, benefit-based products all across the state. Our uniqueness is marked out by the quality of our products as well as customer satisfaction. Meet our clients; they won't say a 'no' to our products.

All across the world, waste management is the priority. Yes, all countries are committed to a cutdown of those products that harm our environment.

So products that are easy to dispose of are the future. Three Seas Medical and Surgicals has taken all its steps with that challenging future in its mind.

Our products are all made with state-of-the-art SMS materials and we provide our associates with non-woven fabrics. Quality is second to nothing; hence, our products are of high caliber and efficiency. This is born out by our tie-up with NABH (National Accreditation Board for Hospitals) in the state. That they recommend only our products tells a lot about our being beholden to high quality products at www.metromartdaily.com the lowest price possible.

Unparalleled products also top the list of our priorities. There should be need-based products galore in the healthcare sectors that could achieve specific targets and functions. Camera Covers is a case in point. Hospitals and experienced doctors prefer camera covers to the outdated, if still in vogue, gel technology for keyhole surgery. The R&D team in Three Seas are always in the process of research about those areas in the healthcare sector where advanced, eco-friendly products are most needed.

Three Seas Medical and Surgicals is an offshoot of Three Seas Infologics, a renowned IT firm in the state, one among the highest ranking SEO specialists and the fourth-raking data content manager. Both SEO and digital space would revolutionise the entire IT sector in future to come. In association with Kerala State Research Centre, Three Seas Medical and Surgicals has started Diploma and Certification courses in SEO. Publishing textbooks in the area, the first of its kind in the state, would be our priority. So we add the signature of distinction in all fields of our activities.

The Meditour project is also shining among our proposed projects. The project is all about packaging medical and medicinal needs of tourists with the whole process of touring. This would be much different from the listless and boring schedule of medical treatment for tourists being practiced nowadays, where tourists have to ironically stay put in treatment centres.

Our service is much needed when citizens from Arab-speaking counties come to the state for treatment. We would have trained tourist guides who help the Arabs to easily communicate their needs and requirements to the medical professionals whose service they are seeking. Seeing this emerging trend in future. three Seas has started a diploma course in Arabic language for tourist guides.

December 2016

M E V E ET N RO T U P DA T E buying community in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana regions. The promotional meet was held in association with Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) at Hotel Taj Deccan, Hyderabad, in November last.

The meet was chaired

by Shri P M Francis, IAS, Director of Industries & Commerce; Shri V Rajagopal, CEO, Kerala Bureau of Industrial Promotion (K-BIP); and Shri Devendra Surana, Chairman, FICCI Telangana State Council.

A short film on Vyapar 2017 showcasing the strong SME manufacturing

base in Kerala was shown.

of buyers through FICCI. He pointed out that the Kerala Department of Industries & Commerce will provide local hospitality and accommodation to approved buyers during the event days.

“Kerala was the gateway of India in terms of maritime heritage of the country,” said Shri Francis in his keynote address, recalling the state’s rich maritime tradition with the ancient Greeks, Romans, Jews, Shri Devendra recalled Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, the close trade ties Dutch, French and English. between Kerala and the Andhra and Telangana and He invited the buyers in recommended that the the Andhra and Telangana buyers from these regions regions to actively take part in the event. participate in the Vyapar 2017 in Kochi in February.

Shri Rajagopal spoke about the strength of Kerala in various sectors and the event format for Vyapar 2017 as well as the registration process

Shri Savio Mathew, Head of the FICCI Kerala State Council, and Shri Akhilesh Mahurkar, Head of the FICCI Telangana State Council, also spoke on the occasion.

Kerala Industries Dept holds promotional meet on Vyapar 2017 in Hyderabad Three-day SME meet to be held in Kochi from Feb 2-4 The Kerala government has invited buyers from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana states to actively participate in Vyapar 2017, a threeday small and medium enterprises (SME) B2B meet scheduled in Kochi between February 2 and 4.

handloom textiles and garments, rubber, coir products, Ayurveda and herbal, electrical and electronics and traditional sectors like handicrafts and bamboo, will display their products during the meet.

A string of SME sectors, including food processing,

The event provides a platform to the buyers

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December 2016

for direct interactions and discussions with the participating manufacturers and sellers from Kerala.

As a prelude to the event, the Kerala State Department of Industries & Commerce held a promotional campaign among the

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December 2016

M E T RO U P DA T E

Kerala Tourism Minister inaugurates Green Carpet Initiative Kerala can be proudly called “God’s Own Country” only when efforts are put in place to ensure security, cleanliness, hygiene, and scientific waste management methods, apart from offering unique experien ces, Minister for Devaswom,Tourism and Co- Operation Shri Kadakampally Surendran said.

The minister, who was speaking at the inaugural function of a two-day workshop held as part of the Green carpet initiative conducted for the tourist officials at Maria Rani Centre, Sreekaryam, said the initiative is a firm step towards achieving these goals.

Shri Surendran also said there is an imperative need to ensure that that tourism activities should not be confined to just a few tourist centres, but should be expanded to other centres as well.

Officials of the Tourism Department should use their creative skills

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December 2016

while carrying out their responsibility. They should be more innovative and experimental rather than being mechanical, he added.

“People have various views on hartals being organized in the state. But the Kerala Government’s decision to exempt the state’s tourism belts from hartal has yielded positive results. This was reflected in the latest hartal held in the state,” he pointed out.

The inaugural function was presided over by Tourism Director Shri UV Jose.

Kudumbashree Executive Director Shri S Harikishore IAS; Suchitwa Mission

Executive Director Smt Vasuki IAS; Green Village Executive Director Shri S Sugathan; Habitat Director Shri G Shankar; Responsible Tourism State Field Coordinator Shri Roopesh Kumar; Raj Bhavan PRO Shri Prince; Disaster Management Member Authority Member Secretary, Dr Shekhar L Kuriakose; and Prof Raghunandanan (IRCTC) conducted classes on various topics.

Thiruvananthapuram District Tourism Promotion Council Secretary Shri TV Prashanth extended the vote of thanks. GKSF Coordinator Shri Madhu Kallelly was also present.

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December 2016

M E T RO U P DA T E

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Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisation launches bike ambulance project in Kerala Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisation (SSSSO) today launched a motorcycle ambulance project in Kerala, which stands third in the country in terms of road accidents with nearly 4,000 deaths and 40,000 injuries annually.

Launching the “Sai-aid-onwheels” project, SSSSO all-India President Nimesh Pandya said here today that the project would be extended throughout the country near all highways to provide swift care in emergencies.

To begin with, there would be 50 motorcycles operating near highways across the state. The vehicles would be operated by the trained young volunteers of the SSSSO and they would provide free and timely first aid to the victims of road accidents.

would reach the accident site within 10 minutes and provide basic first aid to the victim till the four wheeler ambulance arrived.

“In the first phase when 50 vehicles are available, we will cover the distance from Thiruvananthapuram to Alappuzha,” he said, adding that this service would be available throughout the state in the next two months.

Mr Pandya said the concept of bike ambulance has made a huge impact in foreign countries.

Mr Pandya said 900 rural schools in the country would be adopted under the Sathya Sai Vidya Jyothi programme.As many as 672 schools had already been adopted and the remaining would be completed in the next two months.

Prof E Mukundan , State President of the SSSSO, said the bike ambulance

He said 100 villages would be adopted across the country in the next five

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December 2016

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years under the Sathy Sai village integrated programme. The people of these villages would be provided all facilities like health, water supply, old age care, education, sanitation, disaster management etc.

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Mr Pandya said the demonetisation did not affect the activities of SSSSO as all workers were used to sacrificing and doing seva.

Mr Mukundan said 15 children had been adopted in Moozhinada village in Aruvikkara Panchayat in Trivandrum district.

“We will take care of their complete education and provide regular food packets to their family members.”

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For more details please contact: Lifeway Solar Devices Pvt Ltd December 2016 Edappally Toll Junction Cochin 682024. Kerala. Mob.98460 34493 www.metromartdaily.com

D I N I NG

Cinnamon carrot cake

METHOD AND PREPARATION Preheat oven to 175°C. To prepare cake, cream sugar, butter, and later eggs at medium speed of a mixer until wellblended. Lightly spoon flour into dry measuring cups; level with a knife. Combine flour and baking powder. Add flour to mixture, beating just until blended. Fold in grated carrots.

Prepare acake tin and line with butter Pour batter into a baking. Bake at 175°C for 55 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Run a knife around outside edge; remove & cool.

INGREDIENTS

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December 2016

DESCRIPTION

QUANTITY UOM

Powdered Sugar Unsalted butter Large eggs Refined flour Ground cinnamon Baking powder Salt Grated Carrot

250 250 4 250 5 10 3 200

GMS ML NOS GMS GMS GMS GMS GMS

Ashok Eapen K Executive Chef Hilton Garden Inn Thiruvananthapuram

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December 2016

D I N I NG

Channa Masala

INGREDIENTS • 1 tablespoon olive oil • 1 large onion, chopped • 2 to 3 garlic cloves, minced • Two 15- to 16-ounce cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed • 1 to 2 teaspoons garam masala or good-quality curry powder • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric • 2 teaspoons grated fresh or jarred ginger • 2 large tomatoes, diced • 1 tablespoon lemon juice • 1/4 cup minced fresh cilantro, or to taste • Salt to taste • Hot cooked grain (rice, quinoa, or couscous), optional 1. Heat the oil in a wide skillet. Add the onion and sauté until translucent.

Add the garlic and continue to sauté until the onion is golden.

then cook over medium-low heat for 10 minutes, stirring frequently. This should be moist and stewlike, but not soupy; add a little more water, if needed.

2. Add the chickpeas,garam masala, turmeric,

3. Stir in the cilantro and season with salt. Serve on its own in shallow bowls or over a hot cooked grain, if desired.

ginger, tomatoes, lemon juice, and about 1/4 cup water. Bring to a simmer,

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December 2016

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December 2016

L F O E V S TE RI V C S AT O

Y

L F O E V S TE RI V C S AT O

Swathi Sangeethotsavam Come January and the mighty pillars of the Kuthiramalika Palace in the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram will pulsate with the mellifluous notes sung at the Swathi Sangeetholsavam or Swathi Music Festival. This musical extravaganza lets you listen to the spellbinding compositions of Swathi Thirunal, the erstwhile Maharaja of Travancore.

Organised every year to pay

tribute to Swathi Thirunal, the concert celebrates the brilliant notes composed by this legendary maestro which continue to enthrall music lovers even now.

Start date: 04-01-2017 End date: 13-01-2017

Venue: Kuthiramalika Palace Location: East Fort District: Thiruvananthapuram

The concert held in the Kuthiramalika Palace adjoining the famous Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, sees musical performances in both Hindustani and Carnatic styles. The musical festival

which is attended by eminent musicians from across the country brings together those passionate about classical music and the experts as well. Entry is free.

Getting there Nearest railway station: Thiruvananthapuram Central, within a kilometer Nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport, about 6 km away

Arthunkal Perunnal The Arthunkal Perunnal (perunnal meaning feast) is the annual feast of St. Sebastian held in the St. Andrew’s Forane Church at Arthunkal in Alappuzha. The event sees devotees from across the state throng the church to participate in the feast which is held in

January every year. One of the main events during the feast involves a ceremonial procession wherein the statue of St. Sebastian is taken out from the church to the beach and back.

Another intriguing event is the ceremony on the final day when devotees crawl

Start date: 10-01-2017 End date: 20-01-2017

Venue: St. Andrew’s Forane Church Location: Arthunkal District: Alappuzha

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on their knees all the way from the nearby beach to the church.

Getting there Nearest railway station: Cherthala, about 8 km; Alappuzha, about 22 km Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 85 km

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December 2016

T R AV E L

Virtual Reality Kiosk @Delhi Airport Kerala’s Tourism Minister Shri. Kadakampally Surendran took on the role of a gracious host and guide at a unique virtual reality platform set up by his department at the international airport in New Delhi to give air passengers a taste of cruising through the state’s famed backwaters.

The minister spent the entire day on Friday at the kiosk set up by Kerala Tourism at the Indira Gandhi International airport greeting curious passengers drawn to the novelty of a life-size “kettuvallam” (houseboat) placed in the airport departure area and explaining how the technology works.

The backwaters have been brought to life through a two-minute film – specially shot using 360 degree technology using six cameras simultaneously.

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Visitors can don a VR headset and be instantly transported 2,000 km away to a boat floating on the tranquil waters, listening in to conversations of locals going about their daily lives and watching the picturesque coconut palms, rolling paddy fields, birds, the sunset and other vistas from an actual cruise passing by.

The VR “experience site”, the latest promotional and marketing initiative of Kerala Tourism, has attracted much attention

wanting to experience the real thing after what they have seen here.”

which it will move to the international airport in Mumbai.

MPs from Kerala, including Shri. P Karunakaran, Shri. Vayalar Ravi, Shri.

K Somaprasad, Shri. C P Narayanan, Smt P K Sreemathi, Shri. M B Rajesh, Shri. P K Biju, Shri. Jose K Mani, Shri. K K Ragesh, Shri.

K C Venugopal and Shri.

Joy Abraham, and Kerala’s Resident Commissioner in Delhi Dr. Vishwas Mehta were among nearly 200 passengers who visited the kiosk and enjoyed the experience on Friday.

Shri. U.V. Jose, Director, Kerala Tourism, said technology would be an integral part of tourism promotion and marketing now and in the future.

The stall will remain open until December 12, after

The VR zone at the IGI airport is part of the department’s ‘Out of Home’ marketing campaign to promote ‘Brand Kerala’ and is targeted at high net worth individuals in the domestic market.

“We understand that technology helps us connect with people

in better ways than conventional tools. Our future initiatives will certainly be focused on the hi-tech,” he said.

Besides Mumbai, Kerala Tourism is planning to take the “experience site” to other airports, including Bengaluru.

For greater engagement, visitors to the zone are being asked to tweet their experience with the hashtag #Greatbackwaters.

A dispensing machine at the site captures their tweets and rewards random tweeters with a picturesque postcard they can mail from the spot.

since it went operational on October 28 and has signalled that Kerala remains at the forefront of using technology for tourism promotion.

“It was an amazing experience, even for someone like me who has actually been on a real houseboat cruise,” Shri Surendran said of the virtual reality tour. “For a person who has never visited Kerala, I cannot imagine a more fantastic introduction. We definitely hope to see more people

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