Metro Mart March 2016

AR M 01 6 2

METRO mart Volume 5 Issue 8

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

Karikkakathamma an incarnation of Chamundi.

CZARINA’S KOTA UTSAV IS IN THE LIMELIGHT VENICE OF THE EAST ALAPPUZHA IT’S MALL-TIME IN TRIVANDRUM www.metromartdaily.com

March 2016

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

Gurucharanam Saranam

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

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

Religion has always been an integral part of the Indian culture. Ever saw a 500-year-old temple deemed to be the seat of truth, duty and justice? That’s Karikkakom Chamundi Devi Temple for you, situated near Thiruvananthapuram. It’s not just a temple but an absolute reincarnation of Chamundi which thousands of devotees visit every day to offer their prayers.

On the tourist map of Kerala, there is Alappuzha having several lakes and canals for boat cruise, which offers tremendous potential for backwater tourism.

Talk of technology and there is Technopark to fulfil your business ambitions beyond imagination. Standing tall amidst vast scape of architecture and greenery, Technopark is India’s answer to software development and export.

Minister K Babu handed over keys for Valiyathura flats to the beneficiaries of eight flats constructed by Kerala State Coastal Area Development Corporation Limited.

Foreword

Dear Readers,

‘Idea Jalsa – Music for the Soul’ a 12-day concert tour from Chennai was a musical treat for Thiruvananthapuram. Not to be missed was the energetic duet performed by Dr. Kadri Gopal and Pravin Godkhindi. Founder & Director, Art and Artistes Durga Jasraj commented on the occasion too.

Dr J V Dixit put in his words of wisdom by giving suitable ways to lose weight and prevent diabetes.

As you can see, Metro Mart has always brought you a blend of constructive reporting and judicious articles.

Until next, stay tuned!

Siji Nair Managing Editor & Director

Kota Utsav - the annual summer extravaganza at Trivandum’s leading designer boutique Czarina brings a collection of stunning Kota sarees selected from across the country.

Warm Regards, Siji Nair www.metromartdaily.com

March 2016

CONTENTS

Volume 5 Issue 8 March 2016 www.metromartdaily.com

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

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

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

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Czarina’s Kota Utsav Is In The Limelight

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Karikkakathamma an incarnation of Chamundi.

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Venice of the East: Alappuzha

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‘Idea Jalsa’ enthralls Thiruvananthapuram

36

Taking care of your Health results in better Productivity

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It’s Mall-Time in Trivandrum

56

The Crispy Warp And Weft Of Kerala

60

Helpline

62

Classified

V. Viswanath

Editorial Assistant

Ampili Nair

Creative Assistant

Sayan Chaudhuri

GM Sales

Sibu Nair

Business Development Manager Ratheesh Kumar

Baiju Jayakumar

Corporate Office:Metro Mart Thiruvananthapuram MERA 44, Eanthivila Lane, Murinjapalam, Medical College PO,Thiruvananthapuram Kerala 695 011 Tel: 00919995139933 / 9947733339 Email: metromart.tvm@gmail.com Bangalore Office:No:217, 3B Main, OMBR Layout Bangalore – 560 043 Tel: +919038000711 Email: info@martinfotech.in Kolkata Office 313, Dorikal Byelane, Jheel Avenue, Dum Dum Road, Kolkata – 700 074, India

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

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

RNI No: KERENG/2011/40037

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March 2016

COVER STORY

Czarina’s Kota Utsav Is In The Limelight Cool chic makes a fashion statement once again with the launch of Kota Utsav at Czarina. The annual summer extravaganza at Trivandum’s leading designer boutique brings a collection of stunning sarees selected from across the country.

Czarina’s Kota Utsav has always been immensely popular.

Given the range of sarees that will be on display this year, the collection’s popularity is likely to raise the heat this summer.

The Kota collection at Czarina has the entire range of Kota sarees including Silk Kotas and Supernet Kotas.

What makes the 2016 Kota Utsav truly different is the fact that there are wonderful creations in fabric crafted exclusively for Czarina’s clientele by our talented in-house artisans.

These creations use fabric like brocade and tissue in a unique manner to give the Kota saree an irresistible appeal.

Sheela James 12

March 2016

The fine weaves and its light weight make our

Kota sarees easy and comfortable to wear.

As a result, they are the favourite of every woman – age no bar! Versatile in its use and with their quiet elegance, Czarina’s Kota sarees can be worn on occasions ranging from parties to office wear.

Kota Utsav, the muchawaited, annual summer extravaganza at Trivandrum’s leading designer boutique have brought together an awe-inspiring collection of stunning sarees from across

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

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March 2016

working women, with prices starting from Rs 500.

the country. Famed for its fine weaves, understated elegance, lightweight and versatility, Czarina’s signature Kota sarees have become extremely popular in the city, over the years.

The new collections at this year’s Kota Utsav includes a wide array of block-printed,

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embroidered, fabric-painted, badla-work, mirrorwork and appliquéworked Kota sarees, in addition to authentic Silk Kota and Supernet Kota.

Designer sarees using tissue and brocade, made by Czarina’s in-house team, are also available.

At this saree fiesta, women can choose from a scintillating new collection that includes party wear, formal wear and casual wear. There is also a special office wear collection for

Czarina has also introduced a new range of designer blouses and ethnic blouse materials to complement the sarees in the Kota Utsav.

A mesmerising collection of salwar sets, in a range of colours and designs, is also available.

The Kota Utsav will be open until March 15. The showroom will also be open on Sundays, during Kota Utsav, for the convenience of the customers. Czarina is located at Catholic Centre, on Statue-General Hospital Road.

To know more about the Kota Utsav, visit Czarina’s Facebook page http:// www.facebook.com/ CzarinaDesignerSarees or call 9387721322.

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COVER STORY

Karikkakathamma an incarnation of Chamundi.

The 500-year-old temple is deemed to be the seat of sathyam (truth), dharmam (duty) and neethi (justice). The temple stands as a legacy of our ancient culture, were thousands of devotees visit every day to offer their prayers regardless of caste, creed and race

Surrounded on all sides by the panoramic lush, Karikkakom temple is one of the most ancient and renowned shrines of Kerala situated seven kilometres east of Trivandrum. Karikkakom Devi is worshipped as the slayer of demons (justice giver), Goddess of truth (establishing truth) and as Universal mother (Nurturer).

Chamundi Devi, a ferocious form of Kali, is worshipped here in three different forms in three different sanctums situated adjacently. Chamunda,

Tantric goddesses, who are

scripture ‘Devi Mahatmya’,

also known as Chamundi,

attendants of the warrior

Chamunda emerged as

Chamundeshwari and

goddess Durga. The name

Chandika Jayasundara from

Charchika, is a fearsome

is a combination of Chanda

an eyebrow of goddess

aspect of Devi, the Divine

and Munda, two monsters

Kaushiki, a goddess

Mother and one of the

whom Chamunda

created from “sheath” of

seven Matrikas (mother

killed. She is sometimes

Durga and was assigned

goddesses). She is also one

identified with goddesses

the task of eliminating

of the chief Yoginis, a group

Parvati, or Durga as well.

the demons Chanda and

of sixty-four or eighty-one

According to the Hindu

Munda, generals of demon

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

child.

Goddess and on the north side are the shrines of kings Shumbha-Nishumbha.

Rektha Chamundi, Bala

She fought a fierce battle

Chamundi, and other

with the demons, ultimately

sub shrines of shastha,

killing them.

Vinayaka and Yogiswaran.

The Karikkakom temple enshrines a Panchaloha idol (composed of traditional five-metal alloys). Though the cardinal is Chamundi Devi, other deities like Raktha Chamundi, Bala Chamundi, Sastha, Ganapati, Yakshiyamma, Bhuvaneshvari, Ayiravalli and Yogeshwara are also accommodated in the Karikkakom temple. Also, to the north of the Devi Temple, there is an old house known as Guru Mandiram which is believed to be the tharavad of the Yogiswaran who brought Devi to this place. In the main shrine rests the www.metromartdaily.com

There is no vigraha (idol) for Rektha Chamundi but only a wall painting of the Devi in her Rowdra Bhava.

The Chamundi Devi form in the main sanctum is in a calm state, while Raktha Chamundi is considered as fierce, but helps devotees to fulfill their wishes. It is

Nager Kavu and pond are located outside the temple wall housing different species of trees, creepers as well as medicinal plants.

To remove Sarpa dosham, devotees offer Ayilya Pooja, Nurum palum and Archana for Nager every month on the Ayilyam day.

Apart from this, there is Anna poorneswari temple and tharavad temple nearby.

The Sreekovil (sanctum sanctorum) sub-shrines

believed that offerings and

Mukha Mandapam

to do away with obstacles

accordance with the

prayers to Raktha Chamundi and Chuttu Madapam are constructed in Devi helps the devotees and problems caused by enemies. Bala Chamundi Devi, as the name suggests, is the childhood form.

Couples without children worship her and present offerings like cradles and toys to be blessed with a

ancient architectural principles, under the guidance and supervision of Sree Kanipayoor Krishnan Nampoothiri.

The re-installation of the panchaloha Idol of the Goddess followed March 2016

During the rule of Travancore Kings, people than six years to complete its construction. The by tantric rituals was

rajagopuram is a large

performed in 1997

pyramidal tower built

under the supervision

at the entrance to the

of Bhrahmasree

temple in accordance with

Rishimangulam Vasudeva

the guidelines included

potti. Earlier the temple

in `Aintramatham’, an

was opened to devotees

authoritative text on the

only on Sundays, Thursdays

science of sculpture, says

and Fridays. After the

Sangameswaran, the

reinstating, regular poojas

temple sculptor. The five

and rituals are performed

storeys, each with a pair

from morning 5 am up

of small cross-windows,

to 11.30 am and in the

represent panchentriya,

evening from 5 pm to 8

the five senses of

pm. All the sanctums of

human beings. A special

this temple are facing

festival, Rajagopuram

towards east which is yet

Kumbabhishekam’, was held

another peculiarity unique

recently to commemorate

to Karikkakom temple.

the event. The temple

Another exclusive and rare feature of the temple is its rajagopuram (royal tower) which is of 63 Feet Height. It took more

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was originally owned

by Madathu Veedu in Karikkakom. From 2005 the temple functions under the Karikkakom Chamundi Temple Trust.

who were accused of various crimes pleaded their innocence before the presiding deity. Whoever prays to the Goddess, remitting penal charges and opening sacred sanctum sanctorum, is said to be rewarded immediately by fulfilment of their needs and desire. Today, there is a tremendous rush to worship the Goddess in the sanctum sanctorum specially opened for this particular pooja.

Folklore tells us that in the ancient times, the Maharaja Himself had the sanctum sanctorum opened for worshipping when many valuable items were stolen from the palace and Devi helped him to recover the items. In return, the Maharaja is said to have gifted one year’s temple

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March 2016

festival expenses.

The Karikkakom temple has historical importance since this temple was utilized during the reign of the Maharajas to prove the truth behind certain crimes. Accused culprits were brought to the temple and were allowed to proclaim their innocence in front of Raktha Chamundeswari’s sanctum. They had to put 21 panam or coins in the nada and promise to tell the truth. It was believed that Devi would protect them if they were truthful and punish them if they were not. So nobody dared to lie in front of the deity.

This nada was opened only for this particular ritual.

The daily rituals of the temple start with Nirmalya darshanam, early morning pooja at 5 AM and ends with Nada adaikkal (closing sanctum

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sanctorum) at 11:50 AM. The evening rituals include Deeparadhana, Athazhapooja and so on. Apart from Kadum payasam, other main offerings to Chamundi Devi include Panchamrita Abhishekam, Sari Charthu, Pournami Pooja, Rakta Pushparchana, and Thakidu Pooja. It is believed that conducting Raktapushparchana for 13 consecutive Fridays will eradicate all types of doshas and improve well being of the devotees. ‘Sathru samhara’pooja, ‘Sathru samhara’ pushpanjali, and ‘Sarvalankara’ Pooja are considered very auspicious. Devotees also present offerings such as red coloured silk to devi, ornaments in gold and silver, garlands of jasmine etc. Vinayaka Chathurthi Pooja, Mandala Vratham, Karthika Deepam, Shasta Pratishta Dinam, Aiswarya Pooja etc are other significant events of the

temple.

The annual festival of the temple is for seven days.

The Makam nakshatra in the Malayalam month of Meenam is regarded as the star of Goddess Chamundi Devi. Thousands of devotees from all over Trivandrum and nearby districts visit the temple to offer Pongala (Rice Pudding cooked in traditional earthen pots) to the Goddess. The idol of Devi is carried out in a golden chariot around the temple on the day before the Pongala and thousands of devotees gather to witness it. This year Pongala hails on 1st April and the procedures start from 10:00am onwards.

Apart from the variety of poojas there are some interesting rituals peculiar to the Karikkakom temple.

Bali Sadhya is one among the special rituals that take place in the month of Karkitaka on the Karthika day. Special poojas are

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

performed for the Guru and Mantramoorthi.

Brahmins are given food and dress. After this ceremony devotees are given Bali Sadhya. This is a very old custom of the temple, which is followed even today. The ceremonial procedure of offering Devi the paddy taken from the land belonging to the temple is called Nirayum Puthiriyum.

There is another very ancient and significant ritual conducted during the month of Chingam on Uthradam day known as Uthrada Taneerkuda.

Kodi Charthu is another

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auspicious ritual conducted in the month of Chingam on Thiruvonam day after the Nirmalya Darshanam where devotees offer yellow silk to Devi. Special poojas are conducted for the Nagas on the ayilyam day in the month of Makaram which is known as Ayilyam Ootu.

This particular pooja is practised from ancient times for propitiating the Nagas and eliminating Naga Dosham.

Karikkakom Chamundi Devi Temple is open on all days from 05:00 AM to 11:30 AM in the morning and 5:00 PM to 08:00 PM

in the evening. There is no entrance fee as such.

Karikkakom is just 7 km from Thiruvananthapuram city. Pilgrims can reach temple by K.S.R.T.C bus service plying every half an hour. The temple is at walkable distance from the Kochuveli Railway Station and Titanium bus stand.

Chamundi Devi never fails to heed the grievance of her devotees. From hundreds of years Karikkakom temple is renowned as the abode of justice and righteousness. It is the only temple in Kerala where Goddess Chamundi is worshipped in all her three forms.

March 2016

TRAVEL MART

Venice of the East: Alappuzha

Alappuzha being washed by the mesmerizing silvery waves of the Arabian sea, occupies an important place in the tourist map of Kerala.

Interlocked with a large number of canals and bridges this waterlocked district has immense untapped potential for backwater tourism.

Alappuzha has several canals and lakes fit for boat cruise. Three prominent rivers in the southern grid of Kerala viz. Achankovil, Pamba and Manimala empty into the lakes. A boat journey through the lakes will be a memorable experience. The watercourses are flanked by an unending row of coconut trees which heave and sway to the tune of the gush.

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

Have Fun at Water Carnival

of the legendary songs.

The Nehru Trophy was

Nehru Trophy Boat Race,

instituted by the late Prime

the annual water carnival

Minister Jawaharlal Nehru

at Punnamada Lake, is

who was enthralled by the

considered the biggest

charm and gaiety of the

snake boat race in the

water carnival. The boat

world. The colourful

race attracts a large number

boat peagentry which

of tourists, domestic and

precedes the boat race

foreign.

is a marvellous treat to

fish throng together in the early days of May to August is a peculiarity of Purakkad, one of the main fishing centres on the coast of the Arabian Sea. This is in fact a fishermen’s fiesta.

COIR The district is the major

Fishing at Purakkad

centre of coir and allied

metres and with 100 to

Alappuzha is a great centre

about 4000 production

150 oarsmen plough the

of fisheries. ‘Chakara’ a

waters with the rhythm

rare marine phenomenon

and symbols to the tune

in which a large number of

the eyes. The snakeboats with a length of 30 to 60

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products. There are units including a few big factories with mechanized looms. Alappuzha March 2016

retains monopoly in coir

famous for the traditional

Karumadi, three Kms

production and exports.

visual martial art of

east of Ambalappuzha,

Ambalappuzha-Sreekrishna

Kerala, Velakali.

has a statue of Buddha called Karumadikuttan, a

Temple Arthunkal Church

perennial source of interest for the tourists.

Amabalappuzha Sreekrishna Temple on the

Arthumkal Church

Kollam-Alappuzha Highway

is famous for the St.

is called the Dwaraka of

Sebastian’s church which

the South. It is frequented

is situated south west

Mannarassala near

by thousands of devotees

of Cherthala town 22

Harippad 32 Kms. south of

especially during the annual

Kms north of Alappuzha.

Alappuzha is an important

festival which falls in April

The famous Arthumkal

centre of pilgrimage in

every year. ‘Ambalappuzha

Perunal is held in January

the district. The famous

palpayasam’ the devotional

every year. Catholics

Mannarassala temple

delicacy of the temple, is

from all parts of the state

devoted to the serpent

renowned for its unique

participate in the feast of

deity is a rare phenomenon

taste.

St. Sebastian.

of worship. The Ayilyam

Ambalappuzha is also

Karumadi

Mannarsala

festival held in November

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March 2016

every year is very famous.

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March 2016

METRO EVENT

‘Idea Jalsa’ enthralls

Thiruvananthapuram

Breathtaking performances by a popular folk band of Kerala “Vayalli Bambo” and rising star “S Jananiy” followed by an energetic duet by The Legendary “Dr. Kadri Gopal” & Maestro “Pravin Godkhindi” and left the audiences in Thiruvananthapuram mesmerised

‘Idea Jalsa – Music for the Soul’, has always provided music lovers worldwide, with high quality music performances across diverse genres. This year, Idea Jalsa started its 12-city concert tour from Chennai and reached Thiruvananthapuram. The city witnessed astounding performances by a popular folk band of Kerala “Vayalli Bambo” and rising star “S Jananiy” followed by

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March 2016

an energetic duet by the Legendary “Dr. Kadri Gopal” & Maestro “Pravin Godkhindi”.

This year Idea Jalsa in its 10th edition also entered its decade year and will travel to Bhubaneshwar, Agartala, Indore, Ludhiana, New Delhi, Ambala, Pune, with the finale to be held in Bengaluru on the 26th of March.

Indian Music has the ability to reach out to a cross section of society, with no barriers of language, caste, creed, etc. hence it has always being the key ingredient of Idea Cellular Ltd.’s brand building and customer connect strategy.

‘Idea Jalsa – Music for the Soul’ is a unique project, which has been partnered

by Idea Cellular Ltd. since its inception in 2006. It has grown from strength

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

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March 2016

to strength and has come to stand for ‘excellence’ & ‘quality’, engaging the large community of music lovers across the country.

Idea Jalsa brings together legends, maestros, stars, young maestros and the rising stars of Indian music, to showcase the rich cultural heritage of India.

The Idea Jalsa platform has already presented more than 7,000 musicians across genres! A proud achievement for Idea Jalsa this year, is the support that the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India has extended.

On the occasion on the event, Dr. Kadri Gopal said, “I was very excited about

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the Duet performance with Pandit Pravin Godkhindi in Thiruvananthapuram for IDEA JALSA. The Thiruvananthapuram audience has always been very nice and has good musical knowledge, as music is culturally associated in their daily life. It was challenging to perform in front of such audience but I was happy that the people cherished our performances. I am happy that IDEA JALSA is providing such platform for many collaborations and innovations.”

Idea Jasla has always presented unique musical concepts and today it was a mystical jugalbandi of world-renowned artists. I

would like to thank Durga Ji for creating such a platform that believes in keeping the Indian Classical Music alive. Today was a night full of Folk, Hindustani and Carnatic music all in one concert”, added Maestro Pravin Godkhindi.

After a breathtaking performance, Rising Star S.J. Jananiy said, “I was very excited to perform Carnatic Classical music at the prestigious Idea Jasla 2016 concert. I feel very much blessed to share have shared the stage with the legendary musicians.

Idea Jalsa is a platform for all genres of music and absolutely Music for Soul.

At this juncture I would like to thank Art And

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March 2016

Artistes, Durga ji, Neeraj ji, Idea Cellular 4G and lastly the lovely audience of Thiruvananthapuram.”

“Idea Jalsa is the largest platform for Indian Music across genres, which has been established with the active support of Idea Cellular Ltd. and has crossed many milestones in its journey since 2006, e.g. entering the Limca Book of Records, reaching more than 30 crore audiences through its TV telecasts, being the 1st Indian Music project to be webcast live, telecast in 165 countries worldwide on Zee International and also being on 15 International Airlines’ inflight entertainment.

We are very humbled that the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India has agreed to support this project with Incredible India”, said Durga Jasraj, Founder & Director, Art And Artistes.

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March 2016

“After a very long time, we travelled to Thiruvananthapuram and were very excited to present Idea Jalsa here today. We had planned a really special evening for the music lovers of this city who are so close their roots. ‘Vayalli Bamboo’ who are the only music band in the country that uses instruments specially designed out of bamboo, spotlights on the roots of Carnatic music and this was a great chance for us to present the traditional melodies in a unique way, this evening.

The rising star ‘S Jananiy’ performance created magic on the stage. The soulful pairing of Indian music on modern Saxophone and Flute, simply electrified the evening. I would like to thank the people of Thiruvananthapuram for showering their blessings on us with their presence and also Incredible India

for their support and our sponsor LIC India, for turning this evening into a grand success. Jai Ho!” added Durga Jasraj.

Commenting on this occasion, Vinu Verghese, COO – Kerala, Idea Cellular said, said, “Idea Cellular has always considered music to be one of the important avenues to connect with our customers across the country. Idea Jalsa is one such platform which brings together legends, maestros, stars, and rising stars from the Indian music fraternity, to present a rich & diverse showcase of Indian culture for all music enthusiasts across the country and champion Indian classical music. We are happy to bring these unique performers and musicians to Thiruvananthapuram and hopeful that our customers enjoyed this celebration of music.”

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

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March 2016

RECIPE

Coconut Cake with Coconut Lemon Glaze

Cake - 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, room temperature - 2 cups sugar - 6 large eggs, room temperature1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 12-ounce box vanilla wafers, finely crushed - 1 6-ounce package frozen grated coconut, thawed - ½ cup chopped pecans - Cocnut Lemon Glaze - 2 cups sugar - 2 tablespoons cornstarch - Pinch of salt - Grated zest of 2 large

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March 2016

lemons - ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (juice of about 2 large lemons) - 1½ cups water - 1 6-ounce package frozen grated coconut, thawed Instructions Preheat the oven to 325°F. Grease and flour a 9-inch tube cake pan.

Cream the butter and sugar until light and smooth.

Add the eggs and vanilla, beating well. Mix in the vanilla wafer crumbs,

coconut, and pecans. Pour into the pan and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before turning out onto a rack.

For the glaze, mix the sugar, cornstarch, salt, lemon zest and juice, water, and coconut in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened, about 15 minutes. Let cool slightly, then, using a toothpick, poke several holes in the top of the cake and drizzle the glaze over the cake.

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

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March 2016

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March 2016

Sapphire, Cat’s eye, Peridot, Malachite, Lapis lazuli, Black and Green onyx jewellery, Grey, Black, White, Off White, Golden Grey, Yellow, Silver, Pink, Peach and Black pearl jewellery, Pink, White and Red Coral jewellery, Golden, Smoky topaz and Lemon topaz jewellery, Aquamarine, Emerald and Ruby jewellery, Navaratna rings, Birth stones as well as a sparkling collection of amethyst jewellery. Select from a variety of rare designs of rings, bracelets, chains, necklaces etc.

The major specialty of this pioneer made gems and pearls ornaments is the Life Time Guarantee, which is very rare and scares to be seen anywhere in this field. All types of gold works and repairs undertaken successfully at this store. Guarantee Certification provided by this store will be a great opportunity for the buyer to exchange their old gold ornaments at any point of time that will be replaced with BIS Hallmark jewellery. There is an additional special service

available from this expert that is ring naming and diamond naming. This store is also a reliable place for your light weight ornaments, gold, silver, precious stones, semi precious stones and many more too.

For all dealings, they offer buy back guarantee of 80% on gems and precious stones and 100% on Diamonds.

Be ready for shopping Thailand- Japanese Pearls collections earrings shown in the advertisement image. Ocean Gems & Pearls gallery is enriched with wide variety of collections starting from pearl to precious gems. The mastery in work earns the OCEAN GEMS & PEARLS a unique pearl collection centre in the city and is the best shopping option for any Gemstone ornaments

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March 2016

HEALTH

Taking care of your Health results in better Productivity Simple method to lose weight and prevent diabetes It is aptly said that “Health is wealth�. Unfortunately in our country health is not a priority for individual, family, society or even the government. This is evident from the behaviour of a worker who despite fever continues to work in the factory, till he becomes serious and then gets hospitalized for a week or so! End result is he loses wages for a week and the factory suffers loss to its productivity. This neglect of health can also be seen at national level, which is evident by the budgetary allocation for health sector.

Dr. J V Dixit drjvdixit@gmail.com

India is a developing

in India has overtaken

are difficult to control

country but population

the burden due to

and treat. They cause life

of our middle class is as

communicable diseases.

threatening complications

large as total population of USA. India is facing health problems of scarcity as well as affluence due to these differences in population characteristics.

On one side we have lakhs of deaths due to diarrhea and acute respiratory infections and on the other side we are becoming world capital of diabetes and hypertension. The disease burden due to non communicable diseases

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March 2016

More than 50% deaths in the country are now due to non communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, cancers and accidents. It is comparatively easy to tackle the communicable diseases because

and require lifelong treatment which is very costly. Just think of a surgery of heart bypass or kidney transplant or brain tumor. It has the potential to push a middle class family to below poverty line family.

we have antibiotics,

What is true for the society

vaccines, measures for

in general is equally true

purifying water etc. In

for people working in

contrast to these the non

industries at various

communicable diseases

positions. The

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March 2016

Gluconeogenesis Stop Gluconeogenesis

Lipolysis

Stop

INSULIN Stop

Proteolysis

Stop

In this article I am presenting the readers a simple method to lose weight which has a potential to postpone or prevent diabetes. I am sure many of you must have tried various

March 2016

Go

weight reduction followed by weight gain to previous level!

Glycolysis

You will agree that the way to reduce weight should have following three qualities:

Go

Go

money spent to keep the employees healthy can save crores of rupees spent on medical reimbursement and compensations under various government acts.

Unfortunately this is not properly understood by many managements and workers unions.

38

Glucose uptake in muscle and adipose tissue

Go

Stop

Ketogenesis

Actions of Insulin

Go

Pritein synthesis

Uptake of ions (especially K and PO4-3

methods to lose your belly and look smart! I too did many experiments to lose weight before four years.

I wanted to lose around 8 Kg of my weight which had accumulated at wrong places on my body. I tried various methods to lose weight. These included fasting for one day in a week; taking vegetable juices, fasting and fruits each in a three day cycle; General Motors diet; eating many small meals in a day and Ayurvedic medicines. The end result of all these experiments was: either weight gain or

+

1) It should be free of cost 2) It should not require an expert or doctor 3) One should be able to follow it throughout life time I was lucky to listen to an audio lecture given by the visionary genius of India late Dr.Shrikant Jichkar. His lecture influenced me so much so that I experimented with it on myself. To my surprise in three months I lost 8 Kg and my waist circumference decreased by 2 inches! Then I researched his diet plan as an academician and tried it on many of my friends. The results were fascinating.

Ultimately I

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March 2016

decided to write a book

that is produced by a gland

system digests them and

on the simple diet plan

called pancreas in our

converts it into glucose,

proposed by Dr.Jichkar. I

body. Insulin secretion in

amino acids and fatty

wrote three books namely

body is of two types. One

acids. These end products

“Vinasayas weight loss”,

is called baseline secretion

of digestion enter the

“Effortless weight loss”

that happens throughout

blood stream. Insulin

and “Binaprayas weight

the day and cannot be

makes the glucose to enter

loss” in Marathi, English

stopped. This is about 18

cells of the body, which

and Hindi respectively.

to 32 units. Other type

use it for energy. Insulin

These books were released

of secretion happens

acts as a key to open the

at Nagpur and Delhi on the

whenever we eat. It is

door on the cell, so that

birth day of Dr.Jichkar i.e.

expected that we secrete

glucose can enter the cell.

on 14th September 2013.

similar amount of insulin

Glucose cannot enter the

as is our baseline secretion

cell in absence of insulin.

(18 to 32 units). Insulin is

The only exception to

secreted by our body in

this is cells of brain that

response to eating. Let us

can take glucose without

understand the functions

the help of insulin. If still

of insulin.

glucose is present in the

Let me now explain you the simple method to lose weight and postpone diabetes. The basic principle of this diet plan is that excess level of the hormone ‘insulin’ makes us

blood then insulin converts

After we eat different

obese. Insulin is a hormone food items, the alimentary

it to glycogen. Glycogen is nothing but a

Close up view of an leflet of Langerhane

Duet Delta Cell Red Blood Cell Pancreatic Acini

Islet of Langerhans

Beta Cell

Alpha Cell

Pancreas

Structure of pancreas

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March 2016

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March 2016

complex substance with

secretion cannot occur

body except brain cells

many glucose molecules.

before 60 minutes.

are happy with fatty acids

It can be broken down easily to release glucose which can be used by the body whenever required.

Our body has 100 gm of glycogen stored in liver and 500 gm of glycogen stored in muscles. If still

When we are not eating, (as happens in the night: we take dinner at 9pm and then till 7 or 8 am don’t eat or drink anything) the insulin level goes down.

This reduced level results

as a source of energy. In nutshell, insulin acts as a switch, if its level is high body uses glucose for energy and if its level goes down then body used fats for energy.

into firstly use of available

Are you getting the point

glucose from blood for

now? To reduce weight

fuel by cells. Once this

we must reduce insulin

free glucose is over, then

secretion in our body.

glycogen in liver is broken

Before I started this diet

down to release glucose in

plan I used to eat or

the blood to provide about

drink at least 8 to 9 times

400 calories of energy.

in a day. If every time I

Insulin secretion has

This energy is utilized

was secreting 10 units

‘all or none’ character.

by body in 3 to 4 hours.

of insulin, then against

You may eat one biscuit

Though we are sleeping,

the required amount of

or take complete meal,

our heart, lungs and brain

insulin of 18 to 32 units I

same amount of insulin

are all working. So after

was secreting 80 to 90

is secreted! One more

glycogen is exhausted, the

units! And this insulin

peculiarity of insulin

liver breaks down fats into

was making me obese.

secretion is that once it

fatty acids and uses it for

This excess insulin is not

is secreted, the second

energy. Most cells of the

tolerated by our cells

glucose is present in the blood then insulin converts it into fats in the liver.

This fats is then stored in fat cells in the abdomen, buttocks and under the skin.

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March 2016

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

which develop resistance

(each one of us is really

meal in maximum period

in response to it. This is

hungry only twice)

of 55 minutes.

• Eat at these two times

• If you feel hungry in

(Common patterns are

between these two meal

9am, 6pm and 1pm, 9pm…

times, then you can take

but it can be different

following food items as

Now as you know the

for different people).

much as you want:

reason for obesity and

A variation of 15 to 20

diabetes, it will be easy

minutes is allowed.

called as insulin resistance in technical language.

Insulin resistance then results into diabetes.

to understand the simple method to tackle it. Let me tell you the diet plan in a point wise manner: • Identify the two times when you are really hungry

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• You can eat whatever you want to eat; there is no restriction on type of foods.

• You have to finish your

o Buttermilk o Coconut water o Tea without sugar/sugar free o Freshly prepared orange juice without sugar or

March 2016

sugar free (But not orange) • Remember that hunger is psychological. so the above list of food items should be used only as stop gap arrangement and

published in scientific journals. We conducted a study in more than 400 people who followed this diet plan for six months.

The average weight loss after 6 months was 6.8 kg with a range from 3

no side effects and has a potential to postpone or prevent diabetes.

You are all welcome to follow this diet plan and contact me on my email id for further clarifications!

to 16 Kg. The average

The author Dr. J V Dixit is

reduction in waist

Working as Professor and

twice in the day!

circumference was 3.5

head in the Department

cm in six months with a

of Community Medicine

If you want to start this

range from 1cm to 10cm.

at Government Medical

diet plan from tomorrow,

It was also seen that the

College, Latur, Maharashtra.

you have to do following

fasting insulin level in

He finished his MBBS in

things:

these people decreased.

1986 from Govt Medical

Fasting insulin is a proxy

College Aurangabad

indicator which indicates

and further completed

insulin resistance and

his PGDHA from ISSR

• Take your waist

impending diabetes.

Vellore and PGDHRM from

circumference at the

This is an indication that

Pondicherry University.

level of navel (Repeat

the diet plan has the

With teaching experience

every month)

potential to postpone or

of more than 26 years Dr.

prevent diabetes.

J V Dixit got in his credit

ultimate aim should be to settle down on eating

•Take your weight (Repeat every month)

• Do blood investigation for HbA1C and fasting

In the end let me tell this

insulin level (Repeat

diet formula is free of

every three months)

cost, does not require a doctor or an expert

Now let me share

and can be followed by

some evidence that is

people for lifetime. It has

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March 2016

several scientific researches published in international journals, attended workshops, conference and won several awards and recognitions from state and national governments.

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March 2016

METRO UPDATE

Minister K Babu hands over keys for Valiyathura flats As part of the government’s policy of constructing flats for the landless and houseless fishermen, Minister for Fisheries, Ports and Excise, Shri K Babu today handed over the keys to the beneficiaries of eight flats built by Kerala State Coastal Area Development Corporation Limited (KSCADC).

The state government’s

of 370 square feet each

Financial aid of 2 lakhs

mega project worth

with a bedroom, study

each has also been

Rs 48.75 crores will

room, kitchen, hall, and

provided to around

provide houses for the

toilet facility.

15,000 fishermen,” he

landless and homeless fishermen, he said, addressing a function held at the PRD Chamber.

The first phase of the project has been completed in the land provided by the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation where eight flats are being built worth Rs 6.5 lakhs

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March 2016

The minister also

said

informed that Rs 100

Also, projects have been

crores had been set aside

implemented where Rs

for housing projects for

50,000 will be provided

fishermen in the budget

for renovating houses.

for 2016-2017.

Minister for Health,

“While the previous

Family Welfare and

government granted

Devaswom Shri VS

Rs 50,000 as financial

Sivakumar and KSCADC

aid to the fishermen for

Managing Director Dr K

housing, this government

Ampady also attended

raised it to Rs 2 lakhs.

the function.

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March 2016

METRO FOCUS

It’s Mall-Time in Trivandrum It is ironic that despite being the capital, Trivandrum doesn’t own a mall or multiplex. Even the presence of Techno Park, the biggest IT space in the state, hasn’t brought any difference. But the scenario is no longer the same.

Radhika Retnam

Around the state, 35 news malls are under construction. The total investment will sum up to 3000 crore, promising employment opportunities for 35000 people. Presently, 5 malls are under construction in Trivandrum. Mall of Travancore Chakkai with7 lakh square feet and 7screens, Taurus Mall in Downtown Techno park with 1.4M square feet and 11screens, Lulu Mall at Aakkulam, square feet and 5 screens Artech world mall at are getting ready to Pattoor with 1.2lakh square change the outlook of the feet and 4 screens, and city.

Trivandrum International Stadium Mall with 2 lakh

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March 2016

For many years Trivandrum

failed to take off in the upbringing of a mall. Lulu group is in the making of a world-class mall at Akkulam.

The project also envisages a 5-Star Hotel and a large convention center.

Meanwhile, some projects are progressing in full swing such as the Mall of Travancore and Artech World Mall. Scheduled to be completed in 2016, Mall of Travancore will be the

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first mall in Trivandrum.

The mall offers a shopper’s paradise sprawling which is more than 6 lakh square feet of retail space with more than 200 outlets of international brands. A multiplex with 7 screens operated by Carnival Group will also be available at the mall. Artech World Mall was the first announced mall project but it got stalled due to some reasons. This mall will also entail a multiplex, food courts and a gaming zone.However, the most celebrated project of Trivandrum will be the Taurus mall at Downtown, Techno Park. The project also includes two hotels, one of which will be operated by Hilton.

Generally, malls are planted in cities with a population of minimum 3 lakh as this population is the mall’s first catchment area. Per capita income,

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purchasing power, interests etc will be thoroughly researched before the onset. The latest mall which was inaugurated recently is Shobha city mall in Thrissur. There are 15 malls in the Kerala at present.

Not just metros but cities like Thaliparambu, Mananthavadi and Perinthalmanna ia all set for the new malls. Market research and Consultant Company for constructing shopping malls has also started in Kerala.

Currently, Kochi has the most number of malls in Kerala.

Malls generally are misinterpreted as similar to shopping complex.

Malls are spaces for social interaction and recreation. Game zones and food courts in malls offer ample opportunity for people to interact and socialize. Presently,

Trivandrum doesn’t have any prospects for night life. Even with Techno Park, and large number of non-keralites, the city doesn’t offer much option for recreations.

With the coming of new malls, opportunities will be ensured for the unemployed. Also, the night life of the city will be fostered with the completion of these malls.

The pre-assumption on Trivandrum and the hype created towards central Kerala lobby is the reason why Trivandrum didn’t have any malls until now. Also, the national brands got outlets for a lesser price than in malls, which again probed them away from the idea of conjoining with a new mall.

Trivandrum has come out of all such taboos and is all set to welcome 2016 with the brand new malls.

March 2016

METRO EVENT

Kerala Travel Mart to begin in Sept 2016 Focus on Responsible Tourism, Muziris & Spice Route

Seeking to explore new international markets, the ninth edition of Kerala Travel Mart (KTM) will focus on themes ‘Responsible tourism’ and ‘Muziris and Spice Route’.

Billed as the largest

“KTM 2016, which will

gathering of tourism

coincide with ‘World

stakeholders in

Tourism Day’, will reach

partnership with

out to buyers from new

Department of Tourism,

international markets,

KTM will be held at

emphasizing focus on the

Samudrika and Sagara

new arenas of tourism,

Convention Centre,

including responsible

Willingdon Island from

tourism, and popularize

September 28 to 30.

the concept among the

The latest edition, with its focus on ‘Responsible Tourism’ and ‘Muziris and

common man,” said Mr. Abraham George, President, Kerala Travel

will be featured at the

Mart Society.

venue as part of the event.

to attract around 1,500

As many as 265 stalls of

“To facilitate better

buyers from around the

different sizes for the

country and abroad.

exhibitors within Kerala

Spice Route’, is expected

interaction between buyers and sellers, we

“KTM 2014 witnessed a participation of 1,100 buyers. Our aim is to substantially increase the number of tourists from the new market world over in the next two years. However, we have received a great and prompt response from the domestic and international tour operators in yesteryears,” Abraham George President, Kerala Travel Mart 50

March 2016

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

have initiated the process

facilitates their meetings

buyers from various

for sellers’ registration

and interactions with

parts of India and 234

much in advance,” he

buyers from around the

international buyers from

pointed out.

world.

45 countries attended

The buyers’ registration is

The mart will also

open till July 29. The mart

project Kerala as an ideal

will be a platform for B2B

breakaway destination

networking.

for weddings and

KTM brings together business entrepreneurs from Kerala offering various tourism products and services, including tour operators, hotels, resorts, home stays, houseboats, Ayurveda resorts and cultural art centres, on to a single platform and

honeymoons along with its Ayurveda and leisure products, all of which are emerging segments for tourism destinations, with the aim of increasing the state’s tourism market share by an additional Rs 5,000 crore.

A total of 854 domestic

the KTM 2014 mart while around 40,000 buyerseller appointments took place during the three days of the event. While the UK, Germany, France, Malaysia, and the USA topped the countries with the maximum participants, new markets like Singapore, Poland, Romania, the Czech Republic and Brazil had their buyers too for the meet.

Award for Contour Holiday Resorts.

KSIDC honoured stalwarts for high business standards of excellence and contribution towards the state economy. www.metromartdaily.com

Awards for Excellence 2015 were given away by Sri Kunjalikutty, Minister for Industries and IT at a function in Trivandrum.

In picture Mr. Suresh Kondoor receiving the award for Contour Holiday Resorts.

March 2016

EDUCATION

This exam season, get free 24X7 tutoring from top tutors HashLearn Now smartphone app for students preparing for school exams and entrance tests

With end-of-the-year examinations and entrance tests round the corner, students grappling with knotty physics, chemistry and math problems can get one-to-one tutoring from some of the brightest minds in the country for free with the help of a new smartphone app.

HashLearn Now, an Android app developed by a Bengaluru-based education technology startup, allows students to connect instantly and have their subject-related doubts removed by tutors from prestigious institutions such as the IIT and BITS. The service, available 24X7, covers Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry for students of Classes VIII to XII, covering school examinations of all Boards and State/National Entrance tests.

HashLearn Now follows a simple process: the

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March 2016

student chooses a topic and uploads an image of the problem they want resolved to start the session; almost instantly they are connected to the subject matter expert; after the problem is resolved and the session closed, they can rate their tutors.

The app also contains thousands of free practice questions for students to hone their skill. It has already been downloaded by thousands of students on Google Play Store since its launch. The app can also be downloaded by giving

a missed call to 76761-87100 or by SMSing ‘GETNOW’ to 56263.

Founded by education entrepreneur Jayadev Gopalakrishnan and technologist Gokul Janga, HashLearn specialises in building products around education, with current focus on the test preparation market.

In light of the upcoming exam season, the service is being offered for free for one month to all students who sign up until March 31 to help them with their revisions; but HashLearn Now promises to

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keep its premium offering very competitive, with simple monthly subscription models that cost users far less than hiring a conventional private tutor.

“Our vision is to provide a high-quality private tutor to every student at scale, ondemand and at an affordable price - the holy grail of test prep,” says Jayadev Gopalakrishnan, the CEO of HashLearn. “Private one-onone tutoring is affordable only to a privileged few in India and quality issues are a big concern. For those who attend conventional

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coaching classes, the issues include lack of personalization and the unavailability of the tutor to solve individual doubts.

HashLearn Now addresses all of that at the click of a button.”

He says HashLearn has a rigorous selection process for its tutors who are hand-picked from the country’s foremost technology institutions.

“These are bright minds that have already made it to institutions such as IIT and BITS, they understand the exam requirements,

and, more importantly, they relate to the aspirants very well because they have been there, done that.”

Another key differentiator, he says, is that students are connected to topicspecialists, and not subject generalists, thereby ensuring the best fit.

The app is on Google Play Store: https://play. google.com/store/apps/ details?id=com.hashlearn. now Website: http://now. hashlearn.com

March 2016

EVENT SCAN

Good work fetched cultural institutions extra funding: K C Joseph Minister for Culture launches state government’s www.keralaculture.org

Outstanding effort over the past few years by various cultural institutions under the Kerala government has earned them extra budgetary allocation, the state administration noted at the launch of a website on culture.

Minister for Culture Shri K C Joseph, at the launch of www.keralaculture. org which brings together the history, performance, music, dance and more from Kerala, said the heads of such organisations

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March 2016

have had the freedom to take forward initiatives and make their own decisions—something that has helped each institution “earn great merit”.

“Thanks to their efforts, for the first time, the budget has set aside more funding for the department of culture,” he noted at a function in the capital.

The bilingual site by the State Department of Culture provides a quick, comprehensive and authentic reference

to Kerala’s art forms, its literature and unique architecture, and brings under one umbrella the different institutions, ranging from the various Akademis, museums and the archives.

“The site is aimed at the Malayali diaspora and for anyone looking for information on the ocean of culture that is Kerala,” said Cultural Affairs Secretary Smt Rani George.

“The various organisations

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under the department have their own websites, but this is the first time that a comprehensive site bringing them all together has been designed.”

forms, handicrafts and jewellery.

The audio galleries showcases the rich cultural variety in the state and also serves to pique a The easy-to-navigate listener’s curiosity, with www.keralaculture.org music from the various bears various headers— cultural forms, apart from culture department, religious, ritual, tribal, language/literature, art festival and folk music. forms, music, festivals, The video gallery takes cinema and gallery—which viewers on short tours of go into further detail in monuments, museums, each of the topics. The festivals and martial arts, site’s ‘Gallery’ features among other things. shots of festivals, cuisine, A calendar of events religious institutions, art

provides a ready reckoner of key cultural events around the state on any particular date. The site, built for SIDCO by Invis Multimedia, is accessible on mobiles, tabs and computers. Also on the anvil are pages on handicrafts to showcase state-wide artisans and an online quiz for Malayalis within and outside the state.

Department of Culture director Shri Santhosh Kumar was also present at the function.

Acceptance of Each Other is the Way to True Freedom

Be it individuals or communities, true freedom can be experienced only by accepting each other, said Dr. Philipose Mar Chrysostom Mar Thoma Valiya Metropolotan in the Women’s Day Celebrations jointly organized by Santhigiri Ashram, Swasthi www.metromartdaily.com

Foundation and Manickhal Panchayath. True education teaches one how to live and the role of a mother to guide children in the right direction is greater than that of the father, he said, appreciating the activities of Santhigiri Mathru Mandalam, the women’s wing of Santhigiri Ashram.

Dr. Jacob Punnoose, IPS, who presided over the function said that the achievements of women during the last decade is phenomenal and there is active participation of women in all areas of social life today. He hoped that their presence in the Police and Judiciary too would increase in the coming years.

March 2016

SHOPPING

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

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

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

For over four decades, the Directorate with several like-minded institutions such as HANTEX has worked to support the handloom sector in multiple domains whether it is infrastructure, marketing, human resource development or conservation and preservation of traditional skills and products, raw material supply, export, modernization, welfare programmes, price stability and many more. With production centers and

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March 2016

sales outlets grooming up to produce hand crafted fabrics, traditional wears, sarees, garments, furnishings and made-ups, in tune with eco friendly norms for internal and export market, the never waning skill of Kerala artisans is on its way to get the muchneeded impetus.

Pot-pourri of Handloom Masterpieces Any Malyali lady can be spotted by mogra flowers and a unique saree with off-white color and golden border as everyday costume to festival wear.

Such is the elegance of a saree manufactured in Kerala that it is not only a real feast to the eyes but almost an identificationcum-reference point.

This ‘Settu Mundu’ as it is

fondly called is hand-woven and 100% bleached.

Cotton is seen as the queen of fabrics owing to the comfort quotient it provides and becomes the prime handloom fabric used in designer sarees, dhoties, lungis and many more.

Dhotis especially known as ‘Kasavu Mundu’ worn by men during the festivals and special occasions come in light colors and golden edges, making them look all the more regal

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for ceremonial wear.

Moreover, the quality of threads maintains a sheer equilibrium with the ecosystem. Of much significance is the ‘Kora’ cloth which happens to be unbleached cotton and is becoming popular in foreign markets as well.

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

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

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

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Survival of the Heirloom

Thankfully, the Handloom department have

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

Various finance schemes formulated by the Central Government have also been implemented by the Directorate to enhance the working capital of handloom organisations.

As far as the price front is concerned, the Directorate of Handlooms mediates through the mill gate price system. With Regional Handloom Expos that are held from time to time especially during Onam, Christmas and calendar festivals of Kerala, the craftsmanship horizon is surely on a leap to achieving a stamp of distinction, preservation and push.

March 2016

AUTO MART

Kallingal Bajaj launches Bajaj Maxima Cargo Bajaj Auto introduced its first three-wheeled cargo carrier based on the RE (rear engine) platform on which over 36 lakhs of its passenger autorickshaws have been built to date.

According to R C Maheshwari, CEO for commercial vehicles, the company’s three-wheeler business grew by 26 percent over the last year to sales of over 25,000 a month. With the RE600, the company wants to carve out a new payload category in the 3-wheeler LCV space, where it sees an opportunity to introduce a new segment, the “load-carrying autorickshaw”, which will replace its venerable FE forward-engined cargo three-wheeler. Kallingal Shafeeq Managing Director Kallingal Bajaj, Mr Jaion Joseph Bajaj Auto Finance,Kallingal Shafeer,Kallingal Shakkeer, Abhilash Ayyappan, Hariprasad, Prasanth were present during the function

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Ambulance 108

BSNL Land Line: 155300 BSNL Mobile: 0471-155300

Fire Station 101

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

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

Food Adulteration Helpline 1800 425 1125 (Toll free)

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

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

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

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

CPC Call Center 1800-425-2229

Helpline to nab Garbage offenders 9496434517 (Only for Thiruvananthapuram)

Crime Stopper 1090

Highway Alert 9846 100 100

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

Disaster Management Helpline 1077 (Collectorate)

Kerala Public Service Commission 0471- 2554000

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

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

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

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0471-2728454 call centre number (for Thiruvananthapuram city)

(24X7 Toll free No.)

8590000543

PWD Helpline 1800 425 7771

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

Labour Minister’s Helpline 155 300

Rail Alert 9846 200 100

Sutharya Keralam 155 300

Police Station (Nearest) 100

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

Tourist Information toll free 1-800-425-4747

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

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

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

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

(PMJDY)

SHE TAXI 24x7 Call Centre

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

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S WEET P U R E

PALAC E

G H E E

S W E E T S

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

Puffs, Cakes Pastry Sandwich Birthday Cakes & Catering Service

Special Orders Accepted Call: 9656722998, 8714825539

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