Metro Mart Dec 2018

Volume 8 Issue 6 December 2018

`50

Happy New Year

Another Feather in the Cap of

Kerala

Tourism

Winner of Gold at the maiden International Travel and Tourism Awards in London

Foreword Dear Readers,

A

nother eventful year is merging into history and the whole world is readying to greet the New Year 2019 with renewed hopes and aspirations. On this occasion I have great pleasure in wishing all readers and their family members a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

While 2018 was an year of mixed fortunes for the nation, it was marked by one of the worst ever natural calamities for Kerala in the form of a massive deluge, devastating many parts of the State and causing huge losses to the State’s economy.

Currently tourism accounts for roughly 12 per cent of the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) of Kerala and the State is targeting roughly 20 per cent contribution to the GSDP from tourism within the next three years.

With the objective of regaining the earlier buoyancy in the State’s tourism sector post deluge, a host of earnest initiatives have been launched by the various agencies associated with promotion of tourism in Kerala. The State being one which is uniquely and abundantly blessed with boundless natural beauty and rich heritage, the potential of tourism in earning substantial revenue for the economy is immense.

Realising the utmost significance of tourism for Kerala, Metro Mart thought it fit to dedicate this issue to the ongoing tourism promotion efforts happening across the State in full swing.

May 2019 bring you a lot of happy experiences in your life. Happy reading!

Happy New Year

SIJI NAIR

Managing Editor & Director

email: sijicn@gmail.com facebook.com/sijicn twitter.com/sijicn linkedin.com/in/siji-nair M +91 9947733339

December 2018

9

Volume 8 - Issue 06 - December 2018

www.metromartdaily.com Read our e-edition: www.issuu.com/metromart Annual Subscription Rs- 500

Publisher

Hari Shanker

Managing Editor & Director

Siji Nair

Sijicn@gmail.com Executive Editor

N. Vijayagopalan Editor

V. Viswanath

Editorial Assistant

Ampili Nair Projects Head

Raj Nijith Business Development Manager

Ratheesh Kumar Asst Manager - Sales & Marketing

Jayaprakash RP Creative Head

Kiran Mohan Manager - Administration

Sabu C.N. Manager - Accounts

Sindhu R.

KSINC’s Luxury Vessel 12 ‘Nefertiti’Launched

16 Another Feather in the Cap of Kerala Tourism

Winner of Gold at the maiden International Travel and Tourism Awards in London

Bags Nine National 20 Kerala Tourism Awards Tourism Bags Zee Business 21 Kerala Travel Award; Adjudged The ‘Best State For Leisure Tourism’

of Fun, Joy and 22 Season Happiness Sets In

Corporate Office:Metromart Thiruvananthapuram MERA 44, Eanthivila Lane, Murinjapalam, Medical College P.O. Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695 011 Tel: 0471 4015593 M: 0091 9995139933 / 9947733339

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 695 001 and Published from Tharangam, Kodunganoor Post, Trivandrum 695 013

Pune Office:2nd Floor, ARIANA, Above Unnati, Near New Poona Bakery, Wakad, Pune - 411 057 India

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 nor any of its employees accept any responsibilities for any errors or omissions.

Pune | Kolkata | Bangalore | Kochi

10

December 2018

Metro Mart is a monthly journal published from Trivandrum, Views and opinions expressed in the journal are not necessarily those of the Publishers.

All Rights Reserved

RNI No: KERENG/2011/40037

26

Chekkutty The Trendsetter of Emerging Kerala

32

KTDC And Intersight Launch ‘Kerala On Wheels’

33

KTDC launches Membership Card

INDIA 34 BOSCH Strengthens its Smart

Solutions Portfolio Beyond Mobility

Contents 43

International Conference on ‘Innovative Trends in Science and Technology’

44

Blue Ramp At Samudra Beach For Differently Abled Children

46

A Temple Dedicated To The Serpent Gods

52

Environment Friendly Initiative by SBI

54

Cintra Cottons

56

Toastmasters International Community Club @ Thiruvananthapuram

58

The Picture Page

36

Iyer’s Injipuli

38

Army’s Expedition Sets Sail From Vizhinjam, Thiruvanathapuram

40

Memorable Meetting Moments @ SKHF

42

‘Save Kerala Tourism’ Campaign

28

Kerala Travel Mart 2018 Helps Kerala’s Post-Flood Tourism Rebound With A Bang

December 2018

11

CRUISE TOURISM

12

December 2018

‘NEFERTITI’ KSINC’S LUXURY VESSEL LAUNCHED

N

efertiti, the Egyptian themed luxury vessel of the Kerala Shipping and Inland Navigation Corporation (KSINC) , is launched charting a new course in cruise tourism in Kerala.

During Kerala Travel Mart (KTM) - the biggest tourist conclave in the country at Willingdon Island - the vessel was showcased.

Chief Minister of Kerala Shri.

Pinarayi Vijayan viewed that the introduction of the vessel will definitely give a shot in the arm to tourism sector.

Equipped with 3D theatre, air conditioned hall, sun deck, banquet hall, bar – lounge and an area of recreational activities, the vessel can carry 200 passengers.

Elaborating on the salient features of the ship, which literally stole the show at the KTM expo,

December 2018

13

EDUCATION & CAREER KSINC Managing Director, Shri Mohammed Hanish said that it took around one and a half year to build the vessel. “The ship is not only named after the beautiful Egyptian queen Nefertiti but also has several features that remind the people aboard of one of the oldest civilizations of the world. The credit should be given to Shri Tom Jose, Chief Secretary, Government of Kerala, who was then chairman of KSINC,” he said.

The official also pointed out that not only tourism activities but also official conferences and corporate parties can be hosted on Nefertiti. A cruise manager has already been appointed for the ship, which is one of its kind in the state, he said.

The vessel can travel 16 km in one hour and can cover a distance of 20 nautical miles in the sea.

Mr. Abraham George, former president of KTM and Expert Member of the National Tourism Advisory Council (NTAC), said, “There is no doubt that Nefertiti will contribute to the development of tourism. It can do wonders in the tourism industry, If Kochi could be transformed as the cruise hub,” he said.

14

December 2018

COVER STORY

16

December 2018

Another Feather In The Cap Of

Kerala Tourism

Winner of Gold at the maiden International Travel and Tourism Awards in London

K

erala Tourism has won gold for its Responsible Tourism initiative at the maiden International Travel and Tourism awards, presented at the 38th edition of the World Travel Market (WTM), the biggest annual global event for the travel industry held in London. The event, which has earned a name for attracting global audience shaping the travel industry, generated more than ÂŁ2.8 billion of business contracts between attendees.

Kerala Tourism was chosen for the coveted award in “the Best in Responsible Tourism in the World“ category, in recognition of its endeavours in promoting eco-friendly and heritage preserving activities with the involvement of local communities. Kerala has 10,938 units working under Responsible Tourism Mission. Over 50,000 families enjoy the fruits of responsible tourism in the state.

The awards, decided by an eminent jury from among international competitors, were instituted in 14 categories. With Kerala Tourism winning the gold in the Responsible tourism category, the first silver medal went to Cinnamon Elephant Project of Cinnamon December 2018

17

Hotels (Sri Lanka) and the second silver to Coral Reef Revival project from Indonesia. Kerala also emerged as the finalist in Best Regional / City Campaign for its campaign ‘Live Inspired.’ Other finalist destinations included Canary island, Manchester, for visit Flanders, which won the gold.

The awards were received in London by Shri Kadakampally Surendran, Kerala Tourism Minister who led the Kerala delegation to the WTM and Smt Rani George, IAS, Secretary, Tourism on November 8, 2018. Kerala Tourism Director Sri. P Bala Kiran IAS and Sri. Rupesh Kumar, State Co-ordinator of the Responsible Tourism Mission were also present on the occasion.

Kerala Tourism which has been rendering yeoman’s service in promoting the culture and natural wonders of God’s Own Country to the entire world has won a host of national and international awards

18

December 2018

and honours from many prestigious organisations that have noticed and hailed their efforts. Some of the most coveted among them include UNWTO Ulysses Award, Innovation in Public Policy and Governance Award for Kumarakom Responsible Tourism Project, World Tourism Travel Council Tourism for Tomorrow Awards, Das Goldene Stadttor Awards, PATA Gold Awards, Gold Awards, International Award for Leisure Tourism, Excellence in Taking “Brand India” Global Award, Best Responsible Tourism Project Award, Best Responsible Tourism Initiative Award, Best Performing Tourism State Award, Best Innovative Tourism Project Award, Outlook Traveler Awards, Business Leadership Award in Travel Category, CNBC Award, Best Green Destination Award, Best Destination for Families Award, Best Domestic Tourism Department Award etc., having won some of them on more than one occasion.

DISTINCTION IN TOURISM

KERALA BAGS NINE NATIONAL TOURISM AWARDS

O

n World Tourism Day God’s Own Country received nine National Tourism Awards for the year 2016-17. Kerala Tourism won the Hall of Fame awards for Excellence in Publishing in Foreign Language and the Responsible Tourism Project, Wayanad, for being the Most Responsible Tourism Project/Initiative.

Kerala Tourism also grabbed four awards including the Best Tourism Film (Live Inspired) and second prize in the category of ‘Best State/ Union Territory- Comprehensive Development of Tourism in Rest of India.’

Private stakeholders received five more awards that include the Best Domestic Tour Operator promoting tourism products of the Rest of India, Best Incredible India Bed and Breakfast Establishment and

20

December 2018

Best Stand alone Convention Centre.

Munnar-based Rose Gardens Homestay got the Best Incredible India Bed and Breakfast Establishment, Somatheeram Research Institute and Ayurveda Hospital Pvt. Ltd., Kovalam, was adjudged the Best Wellness Centre, while the Adlux International Convention and Exhibition Centre, Kochi, got the award for Best Stand Alone Convention Centre.

Intersight Tours & Travels Pvt. Ltd got the best domestic tour operator promoting and selling tourism products of Rest of India (category 1) and the Kochi-based Concord Exotic Voyages Pvt. Ltd., won the first prize in Inbound Tour Operator/Travel Agent (category II).

Mr. Bala Kiran IAS, Director, Kerala Tourism received the awards for the official entries.

Mr. Alphons Kannanthanam, Union Minister of State for Tourism said: “13 out of 14 districts in Kerala were affected by floods a month ago and today every destination is open for tourists in the State. Kerala is back in action and ready to receive people. Kerala needs your support to get back into its action.”

KERALA TOURISM BAGS ZEE BUSINESS TRAVEL AWARD; ADJUDGED THE

‘BEST STATE FOR LEISURE TOURISM’

I

n yet another honour for the God’s own Country, Kerala Tourism has bagged the prestigious Zee Business Travel Award as the ‘Best State for Leisure Tourism.’

Mr Sooraj P.K from the Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala, received the honour at the Zee Business Travel Awards function at Oberoi Hotel here, where Union Minister of State for Tourism Shri K J Alphons was the Chief Guest. Shri Anil Kumarsingh Gayan, Minister of Tourism, Mauritius, was the Guest of Honour at the ceremony.

One of the most eclectic awards for tourism in India, the Zee Business Travel Awards honour those who are responsible for taking the travel industry to greater heights. The award ceremony was organised to give them a new identity and help the travel industry reach its zenith.

The selectors noted that there is no dearth of talent in India, and hence it was not easy for the jury members of the Zee Business Travel Awards to choose one. However, the jury members did a fairly good job in

picking out the best from the best.

Kerala Tourism Minister Shri Kadakampally Surendran expressed happiness over the award, and said it has come at an appropriate time when the state tourism has recovered fast from the havoc wreaked by the recent floods.

“This honour will inspire the state to press ahead pushing behind the damage inflicted by the floods.

Living up to its reputation as the Best State for Leisure Tourism, we have added some more products like the Malabar cruise project, focussing on the rivers of North Kerala,” he said.

Noting that Kerala has been selected for the award in a prime category, State Tourism Director, Shri P. Bala Kiran IAS said: “it is significant that such a prestigious honour has been bestowed on the state by a leading media house in the country.”

Earlier this month, Kerala Tourism has been conferred with two gold awards of Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) for its innovative marketing campaigns.

December 2018

21

FESTIVAL

Season of Fun, Joy and Happiness Sets In V. Viswanath Christmas and New Year - The season when a magical feel of warmth spreads through everyone’s mind and body. A time when reflecting on the past year, de-stressing yourself with family and friends (of course, de-stress could also come from going solo), and setting your priorities straight for the New Year indeed.

Office parties, festive events, shopping and dining, gift ideas, et al adds to the Holiday hungama.

Hospitality and other businesses give a warm welcome to their patrons with Christmas trees, Seasonal décor and 22

December 2018

fabulous offers – speaking of which, let’s take a look at a few ways to celebrate ……..

Music band Sound Bee performs at Hotel Apollo Dimora in Trivandrum on 31st Dec. The New Year’s Eve celebrations at this hotel include table magic, caricature, gaming zone, mehndi counter, palmist and attractive gifts. Families would enjoy the gala dinner with music and fun.

Option’s multi-cuisine restaurant in Classic Sarovar Portico, Trivandrum offers a splendid buffet

With a calm and idyllic ambience Uday Suites, Trivandrum is the perfect place to have an exclusive family-friendly nonalcoholic celebration.

Their Merry Christmas package is open from 24th to 25th Dec and includes accommodation, X-Mas eve special dinner, and pool usage.

delight during this Christmas. Enjoy their Day Out package that includes lunch and dinner buffet along with pool usage.

Try exotic delicacies at Garden Grille New Year Eve dinner, loosen your senses with DJs Savyo, Sinoy Devassy and Celine at Grand Ball Room party – all this to start this new year with a bang - @ Hilton Garden Inn Trivandrum on New Year’s Eve. At Keys Select Hotel, Kochi enjoy a grand gala dinner at their Christmas Extravaganza on Dec 24th with Christmas carols and surprise gifts.

Take your near and dear ones to Keys Select Hotel, Thiruvananthapuram for an elaborate dinner buffet with an exciting Christmas party on Dec 24th. While their New Year’s Eve

celebrations include Karaoke music, Bollywood dance and a gala dinner.

The New Year’s Eve festive offers at Pattom Royal Hotel, Trivandrum opens on Dec 31st.

Group discounts, couple packages, live entertainments, exciting gifts, and lavish gala dinner are part of this hotel’s offers in addition to performance by Band Thira.

DJ’s Kilbee, KL01 Groove Depot, and Elektromatiz are featured at the Sundowner IV Christmas Beach Party @ Tides Beach in The Leela Raviz, Kovalam. Live food counters and kids’ areas make the party that starts on Dec 23rd more enjoyable. Feast, party, enjoy and welcome the New Year in a sparkling fashion.

Explore the many charms of this December 2018

23

holiday season in style @ Vivanta

By Taj in Trivandrum with delectable cuisines, fabulous brunches and dinners, memorable parties, special cakes and hampers and more. Their Season’s Best offers are from 18th Dec to 6th Jan 2019. Live Band performances are on Dec 24, 25 & 31st.

With a calm and idyllic ambience Uday Suites, Trivandrum is the perfect place to have an exclusive familyfriendly non-alcoholic celebration.

Their Merry Christmas package is open from 24th to 25th Dec and includes accommodation, X-Mas eve special dinner, and pool usage. Razzmatazz New Year 2019 package is open from 31st Dec to 1st Jan and comes with accommodation, grand gala dinner, live music, fun games, etc.

For those of you who wish to get a gift for your loved ones this holiday season, Mary @9895693378 and Reshma @9645031159 has a choicest array of Gift Hampers.

The Windsor Castle @ Kodimatha, Kottayam with their DJ Music with dance floor, entertainment programmes, fireworks and gala dinner let’s you celebrate your New

24

December 2018

Year Eve with elan.

Go Grand @ Grand Hyatt in Bolgatty, Kochi on New Year’s Eve. You could experience authentic delicacies at an open kitchen over live music in Malabar Café. Be a part of the Lakeside party with magic and enchantments on the banks of the Vembanad Lake. Get Playzone access for kids and other discounts with their Stayover package.

The 2019 New Year’s Eve celebrations at the Green Gates Hotel features DJ Arun on Dec 31st along with gala dinner, fun games, fireworks, etc. Nature reigns at this exquisite hotel, scenically located on a hillock in Kalpetta, Wayanad.

Well, there’s a lot more where you could make unforgettable memories.

As you move on from Christmas to reach the crescendo on New Year Day, streets, shops and people get busier and busier. Let’s take a moment, recollect the year gone by, be grateful for reaching this moment, and then set new goals and paths to achieve those goals in 2019.

Wishing You All a Merry Christmas and a Very Happy New Year.

EMERGING KERALA

Chekkutty The Trendsetter of

‘C

Emerging Kerala

hekkutty’ -‘Cherine Athijeevicha Kutty’ or ‘the child who survived the mud’ is the recent face of the New Kerala (Nava Keralam). Made from the mud stained handloom sarees of the flood-hit Chendamangalam, the ancient weaving village of Kerala, these pretty dolls symbolise the resilience of emerging Kerala.

26

December 2018

Chekkutty took its form from the thought to reinstate the Chendamangalam Weaving Clusters that have witnessed a massive loss after the devastating floods. These ruined handlooms paved the way for the birth of Chekkutty - the new face of survival.

The huge amounts of damaged fabrics are being recycled into

Each doll is priced Rs. 25 and around 360 dolls are made from a saree priced about Rs.1200.

adorable handmade dolls named Chekkutty to raise funds to support the weavers. The clothes are chlorinated and boiled in water to make it disinfected before transforming it into beautiful pieces of art.

As a gentle reminder of sacrifice and resurrection, these dolls have gained popular attraction across the country. The dolls can be hung on shoulder bags, suitcases or inside cars.

Chekkutty was designed by Ms. Lakshmi Menon, Social Entrepreneur.

Each doll is priced Rs. 25 and around 360 dolls are made from a

saree priced about Rs.1200.

Kerala is coming together to save the ancient craft and to ensure a speedy return to stability for the lives of Chendamangalam!

Amidst all chaos, God’s Own Country revels in positivity and with Chekkutty Kerala spreads the hues of revival, resilience, and rebirth!

As the website says: “Chekkutty has scars.

Chekkutty has stains.

But Chekkutty represents each one of us who survived the floods.�

Visit https://chekutty.in/ to buy your Chekkutty.

December 2018

27

KERALA TRAVEL MART

KERALA TRAVEL MART 2018 HELPS KERALA’S POST-FLOOD

TOURISM REBOUND With A

BANG N. Vijayagopalan

28

December 2018

K

erala made milestone advances in tourism by charting steps to stir up the crucial industry that contributes to a tenth of its economy, as the country’s biggest biennial Kerala Travel Mart travel (KTM) event concluded at Kochi on September 30, 2018 by vowing to reinvigorate the sector recovering from August 2018 natural calamity.

The four-day Kerala Travel Mart which was inaugurated by the State Chief Minister Sri.Pinarayi Vijayan on September 27th announced plans to reinvent its decade-old responsible tourism, update customised packages, strengthen tools of publicity, broaden the tourism map and deck

December 2018

29

up heritage spots to woo more travelers to God’s Own Country.

Union Minister of State for Tourism Sri. K.J. Alphons and Kerala’a Tourism Minister Sri. Kadakampally Surendran were Chief Guests in the inauguration programme. Secretary of Kerala Tourism Smt. Rani George, Director of Kerala Tourism Sri.P. Bala Kiran and State coordinator of Responsible Tourism Mission Sri. Rupeshkumar, KTM-2018 President Sri. Raju Mathew and several other dignitaries were present on the occasion.

At the valedictory function in the state’s commercial capital, KTM organisers said Kerala KTM-2018 has earned a special place in the state’s tourism. KTM-2018, which brought an array of entrepreneurs from across India and abroad, had 325 sellers in 400-odd stalls that were opened by Union Tourism Minister of State K J Alphons. The venue at 30

December 2018

Willingdon Island, Kochi also hosted four seminars by experts.

The event had its 1,090 domestic buyers shortlisted from 5,000 applicants besides 535 foreign buyers from 2,000 applicants. Both KTM2018 organisers and delegates said the biennial event acted as a major incentive in further promoting publicprivate participation in the fields of travel and hospitality, wellness and culture.

If KTM-2018 triggered a change in public perception that the deluge in August 2018 has crippled the state’s tourism, the event reinforced the spirit of Responsible Tourism that has completed a decade in Kerala, by triggering schemes that promote jobs.

Enthused by the encouraging response, the KTM Society is mulling about a change of venue for its 2020 edition to a permanent venue that will be spacious as well as plastic-free.

TRAVEL

KTDC AND INTERSIGHT LAUNCH

‘KERALA ON WHEELS’

I

n an innovative tour venture, Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) and Intersight Tours and Travels have come up with a package that clubs together all the KTDC properties located in various destinations of the state to help tourists explore and enjoy different shades of Kerala at one go and in a hassle-free manner.

Called ‘Kerala on Wheels’, the firstof-its-kind tour programme makes available the entire range of KTDC properties to tourists at affordable prices so that they can savour the beauty of the state in its myriad forms in a single package.

KTDC Chairman Shri M Vijayakumar launched the project at the venue of Kerala Travel Mart (KTM) 2018. Shri P Bala Kiran, Director, Kerala Tourism, Shri Rahul R, KTDC Managing Director, and Shri Abraham George, Chairman and Managing Director, Intersight Tours and Travels, were present on the occasion.

Promoted and marketed by Intersight Tours and Travels, the

32

December 2018

two tour packages will touch upon Kerala’s major tourist attractions.

The first package comprises Kochi, Munnar, Thekkady and Kumarakom/ Alleppy while the second one includes Kochi, Munnar, Thekkady, Kumarakom/Alleppy and Kovalam.

KTDC Managing Director Shri Rahul R said the recent floods had created a feeling of skepticism in the market that the occupancy in hotels and other related properties would come down with a likely reduction in tourists’ inflow.

“Instead of getting bogged down by such negative sentiments, KTDC decided to put in more efforts and the results are these packages. Once these packages are activated, the tourists will be coming across all hues of Kerala in a single package.

The KTDC will be delivering the accommodation too,” he added.

Shri Abraham George, Chairman and Managing Director of Intersight Tours and Travels, said this is a new initiative providing affordable yet luxurious mobility to travellers across Kerala.

INNOVATION

KTDC launches

Membership Card

A

dding to its bouquet of new products, Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) launched Premium Life Membership and Institutional Membership cards for individuals and institutions, offering seven nights’ free stay in a year in any of its hotels and substantial discounts on all facilities including food and beverages.

State Finance Minister Dr T M Thomas Isaac inaugurated the scheme, in the presence of Tourism Minister Shri Kadakampally Surendran, at a function.

The inaugural Premium Life Membership Card was handed over to Dr Siddeek Ahmed, Chairman and Managing Director, Eram Group, by Shri Surendran.

KTDC Chairman Shri M Vijayakumar said as the flagbearer of tourism in the state, the corporation has formulated various new schemes to tap the huge potential of the vital sector.

Smt Rani George IAS , Secretary Tourism, Government of Kerala, was

present on the occasion.

Elaborating on the salient features of the scheme, KTDC Managing Director Shri Rahul R , IRS, said the fee for premium life-long membership ,‘KTDC Elite Ensemble’, is fixed at Rs10 lakh and that of the institutional membership, ‘KTDC Corporate Collective’, at Rs 15 lakh for three years, both inclusive of taxes. This membership has single transferability to the spouse at the demise of the member.

Institutional members can hold their membership for a period of three years from the date of registering. The institutional membership is non-transferrable.

Vice-president Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATA), Shri E M Najeeb and Shri Raj mohan, Marketing Manager, KTDC, were also present. The boat crew who plunged into rescue operations during the recent floods were presented appreciation certificates and cash awards for their service at the function.

December 2018

33

TECHNOLOGY

BOSCH INDIA Boosts its Smart Solutions Portfolio Beyond Mobility Siji Nair

B

osch India is a leading supplier of technology and services in the areas of Mobility Solutions, Industrial Technology, Consumer Goods, and Energy and Building Technology. The company is boosting its beyond mobility business with smart solutions based on growing infrastructure and consumer demand. The company’s business is in a process of rapid transformation from a hardware focus to models that focus more on services and data in an environment fueled by the impetus from the Indian government amid structural reforms, such as the Goods and Services Tax (GST). The endeavour of Bosch is to change conventional business areas to digital by transforming businesses beyond

34

December 2018

mobility.

Bosch India brings together comprehensive expertise in vehicle technology with hardware, software, and services to offer complete mobility solutions. They have been focusing on energy efficient solutions and connected products, such as power tools and security systems. Bosch India provides Digital power tools that offer convenience and affordability to improve lives, Smart security solutions for smart cities and connected transportation, Personalized home appliances and digital services for all segments and Customized energy solutions to provide energy efficiency and sustainability.

Bosch has, in India, the largest development center outside

Bosch India brings together comprehensive expertise in vehicle technology with hardware, software, and services to offer complete mobility solutions.

Germany, for end to end engineering and technology solutions. The Bosch Group operates in India through thirteen companies, viz, Bosch Limited, Bosch Chassis Systems India Private Limited, Bosch Rexroth (India) Private Limited, Robert Bosch Engineering and Business Solutions Private Limited, Bosch Automotive Electronics India Private Limited, Bosch Electrical Drives India Private Limited, BSH Home Appliances Private Limited, ETAS Automotive India Private Limited, Robert Bosch Automotive Steering Private Limited, Automobility Services and Solutions Private Limited, Newtech Filter India Private Limited and Mivin Engg. Technologies Private Limited and Precision Seals Manufacturing Limited.

Bosch is accelerating the digital transformation of enterprises and developing solutions that are designed for the usability and affordability needs of Indian customers.

Its digital consultative arm is using the 3S’s – sensors, software and services – to enhance existing products and processes acros all industry

domains. As the company operates under its unique Lead User-Lead Provider strategy, Bosch perfects digital solutions by first running them at its own plants and facilities, and then partners with customers to enhance their products and processes with the help of digital technology and new-age solutions.

By collaborating and leveraging synergies within and outside Bosch, combined with capabilities in integrating hardware and software, the company is well on its way on a transformative journey to become a leading service provider in the age of digitalization and automation.

December 2018

35

RECIPE

IYER’S

INJIPULI

G

inger is a spice which gives an extra mile to many food items, though ginger is not preferred by many in some foods, depending on their individual preferences.

My mom and my grandmother were the best cooks I have known.

My mother’s ‘Injipuli’ (a dish with Ginger (‘Inji’) as the main ingredient) is the one of the best I have ever tasted. When I came to Kerala I realised that Injipuli is made

36

December 2018

differently in different regions. Here I am talking particularly about the recipe of Palaghat Brahmins who do it in a unique way. I have seen people taking the same with curd rice, Dosa and even with Uppuma.

‘Injipuli’ is a dish that can be kept for several days. My grandmother used to prepare it in ‘Kalchatti’ (a pan made of rock) or with ‘Irumbu Chinchatti’ (a pan made of iron). This is a dish I am sure you will love once you taste it

The main ingredients for ‘Injipuli’ 1. Tamarind Water (2 cups) 2. Brown Sugar (4-5 tea spoons) 3. Red Chilli Powder (1 tea spoon) 4. Finely chopped ginger (1/4 cup) 5. Salt to taste.

6. Gingelly oil (1 table spoon)

Seasoning:

1. Mustard Seeds (1 tea spoon) 2. Curry Leaves.

3. Pinch of Hing 4. 4-5 Roasted Fenugreek Seed powdered (To be added at the end.)

PREPARATION: lChop the ginger after peeling it and set aside. lIn a wok (‘Chinchatti’), add 2 tea spoons of coconut oil and when it is hot, add the chopped ginger. Shallow fry on low flame for about 2-3 minutes until the ginger is light brown. Set aside. lIn the tamarind water, add brown sugar, turmeric powder, salt and red chilli powder, and mix them all well. lSet over medium flame until the raw smell is gone, add the fried ginger and allow to simmer. lPlace a kadai on the stove and add a spoon of gingelly oil. Season with curry leaves, mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds and hing. When they splutter, add it to the tamarind gravy. lSet the flame to medium low and allow the gravy to simmer down until it is slightly thick. If needed, at this point you could add 1 tea spoon of rice flour dissolved in 2 table spoons of water and add this to the ‘Injipuli’, as this helps in instantly thickening the gravy. lRemove and when cool, store airtight in a glass jar, which will preserve the dish for weeks.

Raja Gopalal Iyer

Chief Executive Officer

Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Resort & Spa, Trivandrum

SOME TIPS Gingelly oil is a very important and essential ingredient to achieve the authentic taste of the ‘Injipuli’. Hence please do not substitute gingelly oil with any other oil.

Saute the ginger on medium low flame until the brown ginger imparts the dish with a unique

flavour of the ginger without the sense of overpowering the entire dish.

Please use a little jiggery depending on the strength of the ginger and tartness of the tamarind.

There should be a sweetness that is not too sweet nor too less.

December 2018

37

EXPEDITION

ARMY’S EXPEDITION SETS SAIL FROM VIZHINJAM, THIRUVANATHAPURAM

T

he sailing expedition of the Army around the Indian Peninsula commenced its journey on the west coast from the Vizhinjam harbour on November 11, 2018.

The expedition aboard the Bavaria-class 44-feet-long sailing vessel had commenced from Haldia in West Bengal on October 21 and reached Vizhinjam on November 10th evening. Commanding Officer of 19th Madras Regiment, Col Dinesh Singh Tanwer, flagged off the expedition from Vizhinjam to Cochin Port on November 11th morning.

The expedition, organised under the aegis of the Army Adventure Wing and facilitated by the Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (EME) Sailing Association, is intended to commemorate the platinum jubilee of the Indian Army Corps of EME. It is led by Major Alok Kumar Yadav. “The mission is aimed at fostering the spirit of adventure and also to create awareness among the masses on the need to preserve oceans from pollution,” Major Yadav says. The team comprises over 50 Army personnel, including 25 officers and five women officers. The team has also been collecting water samples at various points along the expedition in a bid to raise awareness about marine pollution.

38

December 2018

Memorable Meetting Moments

40

December 2018

December 2018

41

TOURISM

‘SAVE KERALA TOURISM’ CAMPAIGN

S

outh Kerala Hoteliers Forum (SKHF), Association of Tourism Trade Organisation India (ATTOI) and Kerala Travel Mart (KTM jointly organized a movement in Thiruvananthapuram on November 20, 2018 with the motto to ‘Save Kerala Tourism’ to protect tourists from violent hartals and to create awareness among the public on the importance of rebuilding Kerala tourism post-flood.

Tourism sector which plays a crucial role in Kerala’s economy is one of the prime focus areas for the government in the post-flood revival of the economy. The tourism and hospitality segments are the fuel that drives the services sector, which in turn powers the State’s economy.

They account for a bulk of the gross value added (GVA), more than 40%, in the services sector. At 63% of GVA, services grew at an average 6.8% during 2012-17, but suffered huge setbacks in the floods. Tourism accounts for 10% of Kerala’s GDP (gross domestic product), generates

42

December 2018

an estimated 33,000 crore in revenue and jobs for 1.5 million people.

Kerala is one among the prime destinations for tourists from all over the world. Frequently organized hartals have an adverse impact on Kerala’s tourism. To cite an instance, sadly twenty-four German tourists who visited Kerala on a recent hartal day were physically attacked, bringing tremendous negative publicity for the State which has a earned a name in hospitality.

These tourists cancelled their Kerala tour programme and moved to a neighbouring State. This incident happened at a time when the State’s Tourism Department has been harnessing their best efforts to see Kerala bouncing back in tourism. Undoubtedly, the quality of treatment and hospitality, which the visiting tourists receive, and their memorable experiences are the foremost factors in the promotion of tourism in the State. The movement focused on the imperative necessity of exempting tourism sector from

hartals and creation of strong awareness among the public on this vital aspect. It may be recalled in this context that SKHF had passed a resolution against Hartals in Kerala in their last Board Meeting.

The ‘Save Kerala Tourism’ movement saw the participation of about 400 people including tour operators, hotel owners, tourist guides, houseboat owners, cab drivers etc. SKHF, Kerala Travel Mart, Association of Professionals in Tourism, Confederation of Accredited Tour Operators, Tourism Professionals Club etc. also

participated in the silent march, organized as part of the movement.

Incidentally, a strong confidence has gained ground among all tourism stakeholders that the host of highly commendable, unique and enthusiastic initiatives launched by the State Tourism Department in energising the sector post deluge would pay rich dividends in the near future with the active involvement and support of the public, and the movement sent a strong message that tourism stimulating efforts going on in full swing should not get affected by activities like hartals.

CONFERENCE

International Conference on

‘Innovative Trends in Science and Technology’ College campus on November 27, 2018.

The conference which was attended by several Engineers including those from many foreign countries was inaugurated by Prof. Ahmed Faizal Bin Ismail of Malaysia’s International Islamic arabhai Institute of Science and University. Dr.Achyuth Shanker S Nair, Technology Vellanad, Trivandrum Director, Bio Informatics, University and Techown, the research of Kerala delivered the key note association meant for innovative address. Dr.K.R.Kaimal, Director of and technical development in the the Institute, Principal Dr.G.Pavithran, field of management, engineering Dr.V.V.Karunakaran, Prof.Koshy and technology, jointy organized Mammen and Dr.M.G.Gireesan also an international conference on addressed the conference. More than the subject ‘Innovative Trends in 150 Engineers from various fields Science and Technology’ at Sarabhai presented papers in the conference.

S

December 2018

43

CSR

BLUE RAMP AT SAMUDRA BEACH FOR DIFFERENTLY ABLED CHILDREN

A

s a part of their CSR programme, the UDS Group of Hotels organised Blue Ramp for differently abled Children for the Children of Centre for Rehabilitation of Differently Abled, Polio Home in Trivandrum on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on 3rd December, 2018. Blue Ramp is a beach access program initiated by UDS Group in 2017 and this is the second time such an event was conducted for the children, who have been dreaming to soak their feet in the beach.

The program started with a cake cutting and there were varieties entertainment programmes filled with fun, live music, magic show, kite flying etc.. Volunteers from

44

December 2018

the Kovalam Skating Club and Surfing Club entertained the children through display of their skills. The program was well attended by dignitaries who included Shri.P.Prakash IPS, DIG and Commissioner of Police, Shri.

Varghese, Commanding Officer, Indian Coast Guard Vizhinjam andSmt. Nissa Beevi, Vizhinjam Ward Member.

PILGRIMAGE

46

December 2018

A TEMPLE

DEDICATED TO THE

SERPENT GODS

M

annarasala near Haripad in Alappuzha District of Kerala State is a very ancient and internationally known centre of pilgrimage for the devotees of serpent god (Nagaraja). The famous Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple is nestled in a forest glade, like most snake temples and has over 30,000 images of snakes along the paths and among the trees, and is the largest such temple in Kerala. Women seeking fertility come to worship here, and upon the birth of their child come to hold thanksgiving ceremonies here, often bringing new snake images as offerings.

A special turmeric paste which is available at the temple is credited with curative powers.

There is a legend behind the origin of this temple. Sree Parasurama raised the land of Kerala from the sea with the axe given to him

by Pramasiva. He gifted the land to Brahmins to seek release from the sin of killing the Kshathrias. However, Bharghavarama was pained that the land was infertile and not habitable. Lord Siva advised him that the fertility of the land can be realized only if the flaming poison of the serpents was spread everywhere and for it Bharghavarama has to worship Nagaraja. To fulfill his wish of making

Nagaraja granted the request of Parasurama and ferocious serpents spread the flaming Kalakuda poison in the land.

This led to desalination of the land and it becoming habitable with envious greenery.

December 2018

47

the land of Kerala evergreen, full of trees and plants, and prosperous in every way, Parasurama constructed a Thirthasthala for the performance of penance near the seashore in the southern part of Kerala. The Rishi Bharghavarama undertook a severe penance and pleased by this Nagaraja appeared before him. The poet M.G.Narayanan Namboodiri, describes the appearance of Nagaraja as, “The unspeakable splendor of millions of moons! The bright magnificence of emeralds stuck to the hoods. Golden jewels made attractive by miraculous embroidery! Lotus feet worshipped by crowds of Gods! Brilliant beauty of form, full of youthfulness!�

Nagaraja granted the request of Parasurama and ferocious serpents spread the flaming Kalakuda poison in the land. This led to desalination of the land and it becoming habitable with envious greenery. Parasurama also requested the Lord to bless the land forever with his eternal presence, and the 48

December 2018

kindly disposed Nagaraja agreed to this request too. The thirthasthala or the hall of pilgrimage was an area filled with Mandara trees and this place was chosen for installation of the deity. The installed deity here represents Anantha (Vishnuswaroopa) and Vasuki (Siva in spirit). The installations of Sarpayakshi, Nagayakshi and Nagachamundi, the Naga deities, as well as of their associates were also conducted as per appropriate rituals. The installation was performed to the accompaniment of Vedic recitation and singing of Sama, Abhishekam, Alankaram, Neivedyasamarpanam, Neeranjanam, Sarpabali and other rites pleasing to the serpents and thereby made all the serpents happy. Parasurama brought learned people from other religions; installed Durga and other deities in different places; appointed Brahmins who were Thanthric experts for performing poojas; nominated Kshathrias, peasants and the Ashtavaidyas who were supreme

among the physicians. Important instructions to be followed to preserve the sanctity of the place were given by Parasurama before leaving to do tapas on Mahendra Mountains.

As generations passed by the family of Vasudeva and Sreedevi were in sorrow due to them being childless. They resolutely worshipped Nagaraja to allay their grief. It was about this time an unexpected fire broke out in the jungle around the dwelling place of Nagaraja. The flames forced the serpents to hide in their pits with great difficulty.

The charred hoods and the burnt bodies of the serpents were taken care of by Vasudeva and Sreedevi.

They cooled the melted bodies with sandalwood, poured ghee and honey on the wounds and fanned them with sweet-scented grass. They put them at the foot of banyan trees, performed purification ceremonies and consecrated the pits; and were put up in special places under the shade of deodar trees and in Chitrakudas. The couple performed abhisheka with thirtha like Panchagavya (a holy mixture of five items from the cow’s milk, curd, butter, urine and dung); observed elaborate poojas according to rules with areca nut flower bunches, fragrant flowers and water, incense etc., Nivedyam with melted butter (ghee), milk, payasam with molasses, rice powder, turmeric powder, coconut juice, Kadali fruit, cow’s milk, all mixed together in the proper form as Noorum Palum,

Parasurama also requested the Lord to bless the land forever with his eternal presence, and the kindly disposed Nagaraja agreed to this request too. The thirthasthala or the hall of pilgrimage was an area filled with Mandara trees and this place was chosen for installation of the deity. equivalent to the elixir of life.

Appam, aval (beaten rice or rice wafers), tender coconut etc. were offered with great devotion. They chanted vedic mantras, performed circumambulation and performed all kinds of poojas to restore those crowds of serpents to full health.

Pleased by this, the omnipresent and omnipotent Nagaraja made himself visible to the couple and blessed them. He informed them that he would incarnate on the earth as their beloved son and stay with them at this place permanently. Thus Mandarasala, the place filled with Mandara trees, the holy spot where the serpents got shelter, where the earth was fully cooled, became Mandarasala.

The Brahmin lady gave birth to five-hooded serpent-child as well as a human child. Initiation ceremonies and Vedic education were carried out at the proper time in the traditional style. Nagaraja instructed December 2018

49

The last Mannarassala Ayilyam was on November 17th, 2018.

The current Valia Amma is Uma Devi Antharjanam. the younger brother to enter into matrimony for the perpetual reservation of the holy family and he obeyed it. When the five-hooded Nagaraja realized that the objectives of his incarnation were realized, he informed the Holy Mother that henceforth he would live at this Illam by entering into Samadhi to bless the devotees. Then he suggested certain inviolable rituals and rules for offering worship and then went into the immaculate cellar and vanished.

Belief is that even today the fivehooded Nagaraja stays in the cellar doing Tapas for the abound prosperity of his dependents. He is referred to by the members of the household with great respect

50

December 2018

and devotion as “Muthassan’ and “Appoppan” (Grand father). The jungle close by is the exclusive preserve for his unobstructed peregrinations (Appoppan Kavu Grandfathers’ Grove).

The Ayilyam day in Thulam, Kanni and Kumbham months in the Malayalam calendar and the Mahasivarathri are celebrated here with great pomp. The Ayilyam in Kanni is the birthday of Nagaraja and that in Kumbham is the birthday of Anantha, the Muthassan of Nilavara (cellar). The most celebrated festival at Mannarasala is the Ayilyam of Thulam. The Ayilyam of Thulam gained importance during the reign of Maharaja of Travancore. The royal palace met all the expenses for the celebrations of that Ayilyam, several landed properties were given away to the temple free of land tax.

It is to be noted that the rituals at Mannarasala Temple is conducted by a woman head priest. Called ‘Valia Amma’ – the priestess performs a special pattern of pooja everyday.

On significant days such as “On the first day of every Malayalam

‘Valia Amma’ Uma Devi Antharjanam performing Pooja. month, On the day of Pooyam star each Malayalam month, From the beginning of Magha to the eve of Sivaratri, Thiruvonam in the month of Chingam, From the 1st to the 12th of Karkitakam, 12 days before Ayilyam in Kanni and Tulam, On the Ayilyam day of every month - the special Nurum Palum in front of Nilavara at the Illam, On Sivaratri day - Sarpabali in the temple, and On the day after Sivaratri - Nurum Palum in Nilavara and Appooppan Kavu”, the Valia Amma conducts the pooja in the Nilavara.

The temple located near Haripad covers an area of 16 acres of dense green forest grove. The two main idols are Nagaraja or the serpent king and his consort, Sarpayakshini. The most popular offering of this temple is ‘Uruli Kamazhthal’, the placing of a bell metal vessel upside down in front of the deity, which is believed to restore fertility to childless couples.

Over 30,000 images of snakes can be seen along the paths and even among trees.

The last Mannarassala Ayilyam was on November 17th, 2018. The

current Valia Amma is Uma Devi Antharjanam. The Ayilyam festival of Thulam sees thousands of devotees visiting the temple from far and wide and is celebrated with much grandeur. One of the major highlights of the festival is the ceremonial procession in which all the serpent idols in the temple and the sacred grove are taken to the illam (the Brahmin ancestral home) that manages the temple. The chief priestess carries the golden idol of Nagaraja, which is the presiding deity of the temple. The younger mother and two seniors of the Illam carries the deities of ‘Sarpayakshi’ and ‘Nagachamundi.’ Special prayers and offerings are performed at the illam. The rituals and poojas of the day conclude with ‘thattil noorum palum.’

Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple has a unique place of prominence among the Hindu temples of India and has been continuously attracting a large number of pilgrims from all over the world.

December 2018

51

ENVIRONMENT

Environment Friendly Initiative by SBI

T

he State Bank of India organised an event ‘Green Marathon’ on December 9, 2018 in Trivandrum, with the theme ‘Run for a Greener Future’.

According to a press statement more than 2,500 runners participated in different categories. Runner’s BIB consisted of seeds which were planted after the Marathon.

Chote Patel became the winner in the21KM open men category.

Binu Pere and Alen Jose attained the second and third positions.

Sandra.P.M, Aasa.T.P and Reshna Ashraf came at first, second and

52

December 2018

third positions respectively in the 21KM open women catogery.

Baba.A finished first in the 21KM veteran male catogery and Zoja Ziya Z emerged first in 21KM veteran female category.

SBI Thiruvananthapuram Circle Chief General Manager Sri.S.Venkataraman flagged off the event at Shangumugham Beach along with noted sports personalities, Smt. Bobby Aloysius and Sri. Cyril C Valloor. The participants took a green pledge and Organic T-shirts were given to promote clean and green city.

MARKETING FEATURE

T

he name synonymous with high quality linen for hotel and hospital industry since 1990 has earned leading position and now 70% of the hotels in Kerala are our satisfied customers. Our customized service, dedication to our customers, durability of the products and timely delivery has attracted more and more customers by mouth to mouth publicity without any marketing or

54

December 2018

promotional activities our end.

Tourism the fastest growing and most revenue generating industry of our state is depended mainly on hotels and hospitality industry and the quality of the hotels with attractive ambiance,, neat rooms with quality linen, neat and clean food with guest friendly service should make the guests feel at home should be the cornerstone of our

hospitality industry‌..

You can entrust us with confidence for your requirements of housekeeping linen, towels, accessories, etc... And we assure you of best quality and value for money product. We are having ready stock

of almost everything and if you need any customized products also we are happy to do it in a time bound manner‌ We assure you quality linen at very reasonable rate and our rate with specifications will be selfexplanatory.

December 2018

55

ToastMasters

International Community Club @ Thiruvananthapuram

T

hiruvananthapuram-based Centre for Innovation in Science and Social Action (CISSA), which is the headquarters of the Regional Centre of Expertise (RCE), Thiruvananthapuram, acknowledged by the UN University, is starting a

56

December 2018

community club of the Toastmasters International at Thiruvananthapuram.

The club will be beneficial to employed and unemployed persons, the business community, housewives, professionals and students who would like to improve their communication and public speaking skills.

Toastmasters International is a world leader in communication and leadership development operating in 116 countries with about 13000 clubs having a total membership close to 2,70,000. Their contact details are: Mobile- 9497501812, E-mail: unurcetrivandrum@gmail.com

58

December 2018

Photographed by Ms. Smitha Prasad

PICTURE Page

The