METRO mart Volume 07 Issue 09 `50 March 2018
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM
Kerala
A Natural Wonder
Mall of Travancore
Enlivening the Cityites Czarina
Kota fest
Discovering
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Kochi
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METRO mart T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
Foreword Dear Readers The month of March 2018 had three significant developments for the group of Metro Mart. The first was the Launch of Metro Expedition – the first national tourism magazine from Kerala. The launch was done by Minister for Tourism, Government of India, Sri. Alphonse Kannanthanam in Berlin, at the ITB tourism fair, in the presence of dignitaries and visitors, from all over the world. The second was the grand celebration of Metro Food Awards 2018 at Apollo Dimora, Thiruvananthapuram. This 4th edition of Metro Food Awards was inaugurated by Minister for Tourism, Government of Kerala, Sri. Kadakampally Surendran. Awards were distributed to the winners by the Tourism Minister and Minister for Agriculture Sri. V.S. Sunil Kumar. World Water Day was celebrated by Metro Mart with Minister for Forests Adv. Sri. K. Raju delivering a pledge to the gathering on Water Conservation. The third was the launch of Media Streams. Media Streams – A complete PR solution with expertise including Media tracking, Media management, and Content management. Well, all-in-all it’s a busy month for Thiruvananthapuram too. Devotees from far and near were at Karikkakom to offer Pongala to the Goddess Chamundi Devi on March 28th. Bloggers from 28 countries started from the State capital on a 14-day road trip across Kerala based on the programme of Kerala Blog Express 5. The annual Kota Utsav at Czarina was held at this leading designer boutique with a new range of Kota Sarees and Salwar set collections.
Siji Nair
Managing Editor & Director e-mail: sijicn@gmail.com
Bloggers from 28 countries started from the State capital on a 14-day road trip across Kerala based on the programme of Kerala Blog Express
Marching Ahead, Metro Mart looks forward to informing/comment/validate happenings across Thiruvananthapuram. We await your responses and suggestions.
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Volume 7 - Issue 09 - March 2018
www.metromartdaily.com www.metromartnews.com Read our e-edition: www.issuu.com/metromart Annual Subscription Rs 500
Publisher
Managing Editor & Director Editor Editorial Assistant Creative Team
Hari Shanker Siji Nair
sijicn@gmail.com
V. Viswanath Ampili Nair Praveen Popins JIJU Popins
Business Development Manager Ratheesh Kumar Manager-PR Raj Nijith Asst Manager- Sales & Marketing Jayaprakash RP Manager-Administration Sajith Sadasivan Corporate Office:-
CONTENTS 12. K erala A Natural Wonder 22. Discovering Kochi 26. S tay @ Starlit Suites Kochi & experience Kerala 28. Czarina Kota fest 30. M etro Food Award’s 4th edition held at Thiruvananthapuram 32. Media Streams New Media & PR solution venture launched 34. AUTO WORLD 38. Traditional Healthy Foods at Home 40. C hampagne Delights For Every Celebration
Metro Mart Thiruvananthapuram MERA 44, Eanthivila Lane, Murinjapalam, Medical College PO, Thiruvananthapuram Kerala 695 011 Tel: 0091 9995139933 / 9947733339 Email: metromart.tvm@gmail.com
46. Temple of Truth Sri Chamundi Temple at Karikkakom
Kolkata Office
53. FANDANGO 2018 concluded with pomp & glory
313, Dorikal Byelane, Jheel Avenue, Dum Dum Road, Kolkata – 700 074, India
Pune Office C-507, Wisteria Fortune Survey No: 95/2, Near New Poona Bakery Wakad, Pune - 411057
52. Expedition Launched at ITB Berlin
54. M all of Travancore Enlivening the Cityites 57. Care & Cure
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
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RNI No: KERENG/2011/40037
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TOURISM
Kerala A Natural Wonder 12 March 2018
METRO mart T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
Freshness of blue sea, tranquility of backwaters, fragrance of rich spices and serene beauty of the natural vegetation; Kerala has it all.
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hile planning a vacation one looks for destinations that offers either peace or adventure. Well, Kerala is the destination that offers you both. Peaks and forests for hiking, dwelling amongst wildlife, lazy sunbath at the beach or relaxing after an Ayurvedic massage, one can explore and discover blissful memories in Kerala. Freshness of blue sea, tranquility of backwaters, fragrance of rich spices and serene beauty of the natural vegetation; Kerala has it all. Entitled as God’s own country, Kerala is rated as one of most www.metromartdaily.com
sought holiday destinations. It is an ideal destination for all kinds of tourists, for what Kerala stores is the definition of abundant beauty and thrill. The history of the land is worth peeking into. Kerala is believed to be created by the warrior’s saint, Parsurama himself. The saint threw his axe into the sea and as a result, the land of Kerala arose. It has seen emergence and downfall of some of the greatest empires in the history of India. If you dig culture and history you will definitely be intrigued by the Chera, Kalabhra Interregnum, and March 2018
the Kulashekharas are the empires. The arrival of Vasco Da Gama at Calicut in 1498 is another landmark in the history of Kerala. In fact, the Portuguese had a strong impact on the educational and cultural life of the people of Kerala. Kerala has several forts, palaces, cemeteries and citadels. Surrounded with natural beauty is Anjego or Anjuthengu, a place of historic importance and an ideal destination for those who don’t mind walking around and explore what is in store. For people who relish history and historic monuments, the Poonjar Palace is another treat. It is a glorious testimony to the regal opulence of a bygone era. Within the palace walls is an extraordinary royal collection of antiques and exquisite furniture including a palanquin, a droni (treatment bed) carved out of a single piece of wood for Ayurvedic massages, huge chandeliers, palm leaf engravings, jewel boxes, varieties of lamps, sculptures of grain measures, statues and weapons. Some of the other spectacular historical places in Kerala are Khandragiri Fort, Shakthan Thampuran Palace, Thangasseri, Tipu’s Fort. If you would like to walk a little way along one such wonderful path of discovery, one good place to visit would be the Edakkal caves in the Ambukuthi Hills in North Kerala, considered to be one of the earliest centres of human habitation. Inside the cave you will find ancient stone scripts, pictorial wall inscriptions of human and animal figures with peculiar headdresses, the swastik form, symbols and cave drawings of human figures, wheels, bows, knives, trees and so on. A trip through the numerous forests and hill stations in Kerala will take you to some of the best waterfalls and dams you have ever seen in your life. The water gushing down the rocks, intruded by rollicking foliage is a sight a beholder can’t blink at. Waterfalls like Athirappally, Soochipara, Thusharagiri or Thommankoothu will enable you to experience such facets of nature that is calm, soothing and wild, all at the same time. The beautifully landscaped road to Athirappally gives you glimpses of 14 March 2018
METRO mart T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
A trip through the numerous forests and hill stations in Kerala will take you to some of the best waterfalls and dams you have ever seen in your life. the milky white waters that gush past rocks and boulders, thriving and roaring in a rhythm that could make one forget all the distress. The waterfalls don’t fail to offer the tranquillity and serenity in the summers as well. In summer these waterfalls tone down to calm cascades and all you have to do is dip your feet in the cool water while sitting on the rocks. The calls of the wildlife around contributes to the perfection in the setting. Cheeyappara and Valara, Dhoni, Kanthanpara, Madammakkulam, Keezharkuth and Meenmutty are the waterfalls that make Kerala no less than a geographical wonder. Kerala is not only known for its heavenly natural beauty but also for its pilgrimage spots . Kerala is not only known for its heavenly beauty but also for its pilgrimage spots. There are several temples, churches and synagogues for devotees. Among the oldest churches in Kerala, the St. Mary’s Church or Champakulam Church in Alappuzha is believed to be one of the seven established by St. Thomas in AD 427. A strong representative of culture of Kerala is the Mannarasla Sree Nagaraja Temple. Situated near Harippad, Mannarasala is a serpent shrine under the patronage of a Brahmin family, headed by a priestess. It is believed that Nagaraja as the installed diety is endowed with the form of Hari (Lord Vishnu) and the spirit of Lord Shiva. The Guruvayoor Sree Krishna Temple, Thrissur, Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple, Cochin, www.metromartdaily.com
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Sree Padnamabha Temple, Trivandrum, Sree Vadakkumnathan Temple, Thrissur are some of the famous temples in Kerala among many others. Christianity in Kerala is believed to be as old as the Christian era itself thus giving some ancient churches to Kerala. It is believed that the Arab traders introduced Islam to Kerala, during the eighth or ninth century. The mosques at Patalayini, the Jama-Masjid at Tannur, and the mosques at Ponnani, Malappuram, Jami-Masjid at Baypore in Kozhikode district, Mithqual mosque in Calicut, are some of the famous mosques. One of the most tranquil and relaxing things you can do in Kerala is take a trip in a houseboat along the palm-fringed Kerala canals. The coastal regions of Kerala have a network of waterways, inlets from the sea, and estuaries of over forty rivers, lakes and natural canals connecting coastal towns. This interlinked body of waterways is known as the backwaters in Kerala. Many unique species of aquatic life including crabs, frogs and
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Kerala is famous for its Ayurveda centres that offer rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments. Availing Ayurvedic treatments is in fact the main agenda of many tourists who come here. mudskippers, water birds such as terns, kingfishers, darters and cormorants, and animals such as otters and turtles live in and alongside the backwaters in Kerala. Palm trees, pandanus shrubs, various leafy plants and bushes are a common feature along the Kerala backwaters, colouring the surrounding landscape, a rich green. Cruise the backwaters at Alleppey, Cochin, Kasaragod, Kottayam, Kozhikide, Kumarakom and Kuttanad for an unforgettable experience that lets you imbue yourself into natures magical realm. Kerala’s Periyar National Park is one of the most popular national parks in southern India. One of the best things about the park is that it stays open all year round, even during the monsoon season. Periyar is
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known for its elephants, and 30 minute elephant rides through the jungle are offered. Safaris are carried out by boat, with the lake being particularly captivating at sunset. Visitors can also take part in an excellent variety of eco-tourism activities there. Chinnar too is one of the finest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala. Set amidst enchanting backwaters of Devikulam in Idukki district of Kerala, the Chinnar wildlife sanctuary covers an area over 90 sq km in the rain shadow region of the. Known for its enchanting scenic beauty, Chinnar is a natural habitat for an amazing variety of flora and fauna including some rare and endangered wildlife species. The Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary lies in the rain shadow region of the Western Ghats, and so receives comparatively less rainfall in comparison to other parts of Kerala. The vegetations of Chinnar primarily comprises of thorny scrub forest, dry deciduous forest, high sholas and wet grasslands, which supports a wide variety of wildlife. Reflecting the crystal blue colour of infinite sky, Kerala inspires love for beaches. Cherai Beach, a picturesque beach, located on the north-end of the Vypeen Island is ideal for swimming. Lined with luscious green coconut groves and paddy fields, this sandy beach is a unique combination of the sea and the backwaters, studded with seashells of various hues and shapes. Kovalam on the other hand is an internationally renowned beach with three adjacent crescent beaches. It has been a favourite haunt of tourists, especially Europeans, since the 1930s. Alappuzha, Bekal, Beypore, Chavakkad, Chowara, Kappad, Kolavi, keep exploring and Kerala will never run out of beaches to surprise you. Munnar in Kerala is an absolute piece of unbelievable beauty and if you love tea, you will love to drink a hot cup of tea while drinking in the beauty of the tea plantation. The Kundale Tea Plantations, which surrounds a picturesque lake, offers the best opportunity to see the tea being picked and processed, and to try fresh tea straight from the gardens. The area is
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blessed with the natural beauty of winding lanes, misty hills, and forests full of exotic plants and wildlife. Adventure enthusiasts can trek to Anamudi, the highest peak in south India, explore Eravikulam National Park, or go rock climbing and para gliding. If you want to relax away from it all, try a homestay at one of the many plantation bungalows. Kerala is famous for its Ayurveda centres that offer rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments. Availing Ayurvedic treatments is in fact the main agenda of many tourists who come here. The various herbs used to concoct potions have high medicinal value. Massages and other treatments that can cure skin, heart, digestive, neurological and several other disorders, are much sought after. Uzhichil, Pizchil, Nasyam and Dhaara are some of the popular treatments. Meditation and Yoga are also an important part of Ayurveda. Since the science deals with holistic wellness, it also gives due importance to a sound mind. Yoga and meditation helps in this regard. Your holiday in Kerala would be incomplete without trying out these relaxing therapies which will let you return to your homeland, absolutely rejuvenated. Kerala being a wholesome state is not untouched by the mall culture. Apart from the glossy boutiques in the cities that sell the best in western and ethnic
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wear, there are numerous small scale industries that deal in handicrafts, pickles, tea, chocolates, honey, snacks, bamboo products and spices. Kozhikode and Cochin are known as the main spice trading hubs since the ancient times. Balaramapuram in Thiruvananthapuram is famous for its handloom. Kasavukadas across the state sell beautifully embroidered Kerala Sarees and Mundus. While Kollam is well-known for its cashews, Kozhikode is famed for its snacks, Malabar Biriyani and chips. The people of the hilly regions like Thekkady, Kattapana and Wayanad trade in bamboo products and tribal artifacts. The tea estates of Munnar are known world over. Here you can buy the finest tea made at the tea processing units. The cottage industries here produce delicious chocolates and natural honey. Brassware, and bronze are made at Alappuzha and Irinjalakkuda. The temple town of Guruvayoor is known for its sandalwood artefacts, mural arts and Ramachcham mattresses. And if you have a penchant for gold ornaments, you will find them in the various jewellery showrooms across Kerala. A trip to Kerala would be trip of a lifetime. A beauty that dazzles and tranquilizes at the same time is worth experiencing. Transcend yourself to the world of natural wonders and enrich your joyous memories. Come, visit Kerala. 
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March 2018
COVER FEATURE
Discovering
Kochi The city that is aptly nicknamed as the queen of the Arabian sea, has no doubt inspired many an artist and poet.
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ochi, the queen of the Arabian sea. The land of shipyards, houseboats, Chinese fishing nets and magnificent sunsets on rippling backwaters. The beauty of the sunset is so aweinspiring. Each place within the city offers a different view. Each day a different sky and each moment a different hue. The city that is aptly nicknamed as the queen of the Arabian sea, has no doubt inspired many an artist and poet. With a story that goes back in time to the time of when traders came to India in search of spices, this city is now a perfect blend of the old and new. On one side, it has the ancient palaces of the Portuguese in Fort Kochi. On the other, it has Ernakulam, a perfect picture of a fast developing city. It is one among the cities in India with a metro rail to provide a rapid transit mode to the public.
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As more and more of India’s cities develop and urbanization takes a firmer grip on India, we can clearly see that Kochi is one of the places that has a lead in terms of modernization. The city that looked more like a huge village in the 1950s, today seems like a buzzing beehive with people everywhere. The past 20 years have seen considerable changes in terms of the buildings that line the city, the lifestyle of the public and the various centers for entertainment. With the introduction of the Infopark in Kakkanad, which was earlier a place that was known more for its greenery than its multi-storeyed buildings, Kochi has taken another leap in terms of culture as well as urban living. Techies from different parts of the country have now made Kochi their home and have found what it means to be embraced by a very warm culture and rich tradition that awaits all who chose to live in Kochi.
March 2018
Lulu mall in Kochi is a place that people from all over Kerala make it a point to visit. This colossal mall is the largest mall in India. With its food courts and entertainment zones, it can make time fly by in the blink of an eye for any visitor to the place. If you are looking for a restaurant and a place to do your shopping, there is the MG Road of Cochin which is also called the 70 feet road. It is a live wire for the city and has whatever you may be looking for. Some of Kochis oldest hotels find their nook on MG Road. A great alternative for wholesale shopping is Broadway which finds its place right in the middle of the city. Broadway with its tiny alleys and byways houses numerous shops, small and big. It is definitely a feast for the shopaholic.[ Fort Kochi is the only place in India to be colonized by three European powers (the Portuguese, the Dutch and the British) at different points of time in history. It is a fusion of the influence of all three. Chinese fishing nets, as their name suggests, had their origin from the Chinese explorer Zheng He from Kublai Khan’s court. That was how those nets were first to introduce in Fort Kochi and there they stand till date, attracting not just fish, but thousands of tourists who visit Kochi. These tall structures are magnificent to watch as they adorn the coastline and even more beautiful to see in action as they catch fish based on a principle of cantilever and balance.
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Fort Kochi is the only place in India to be colonized by three European powers (the Portuguese, the Dutch and the British) at different points of time in history. With the influence of the European powers, also came Christianity and the many churches that are located in the city. Many of the churches and cathedrals, like Santa Cruz Basilica and, St Francis Church remain major tourist attractions and are a great place to visit any time of the year. Another beautiful place to visit is the Dutch Palace which was built by the Portuguese and later renovated by the Dutch. It was initially built as a gift to the Maharaja of Cochin by the Portuguese, as a token of reconciliation after they plundered a neighboring Hindu temple. The palace is home to intricate murals that cover its walls and tell the stories from the Ramayana and also of Hindu gods and goddesses. This Palace is also a place for the exhibition of artifacts of the Dutch and many of them date back to the 17th century.
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Cruise ships that dock at Kochi are certainly an attraction for those who can afford to travel on them as well as for the general public who rush for a glimpse of the fully lighted cruise ships, that look like beautiful floating chandeliers as they drift into the harbor. Back in 562 BC, there were a few Jews who traveled to India to make India their new home. They were later called the Malabar Jews. Now, after the Jews have gone back to their land, some of their possessions and dwellings still remain in Kochi. The famous antique shops in Jew street of Kochi live to tell the tale of a race that once lived among the natives of Kochi, as one with them. A must visit place is the Jewish synagogue in Mattancherry where the Jews of old worshipped their God in the traditional way after building their own synagogue in a foreign land. Willingdon Island, which is famous because it is a manmade island, rests between Ernakulam and Mattancherry. It was made from the material that came out when deepening the Kochi harbor in 1928 and was named after viceroy Lord Willingdon. Bolgatty Palace is on another island which once was a sprawling estate that served as a home to the British till Independence. It is now an island heritage resort that has been taken up by KTDC
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These are only a few of the many treasures that the land of Kochi has to offer to the eager traveler. Kochi is definitely a multifaceted, culture-rich abode with lots left to be discovered. Make sure you add some more notable memories to your travelogues as you journey through this beautiful place on your next set of holidays! 
March 2018
HOLIDAY
Stay @ Starlit Suites Kochi & experience Kerala S At Starlit Suites, guests’ needs and preferences are given prime importance and ultimate care for maximum comfort.
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tarlit Suites – the iconic 9-storied tower with its 136 fully-furnished and equipped Premium Studio and Deluxe One Bedroom Suites is the right place to stay for anyone visiting Kochi. Kerala and its coastal belt has always fascinated tourists. And Kochi is one of the best destinations to experience the charm of God’s own country – Kerala. Starlit Suites is strategically Nestled on NH 47 bypass road with its urban flair and natural beauty. It has easy access to Kochi International Airport and the railway station as well as the commercial hubs and scenic spots like temples and Fort Kochi to name a few. The location of Starlit Suites is such
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that it is removed from the high-stress and high-traffic environment of the downtown core. The highlight of the property is that there is mixed use development, which includes a mall/office space and Hotel Apartments offering excellent views from all the Suites. The ample open green spaces are soothing to the eyes. Whether it is a quiet romantic candle-lit dinner on the poolside deck at the swimming pool on the 6th floor or a rigorous work out at the gymnasium and terraces, Starlit Suites offers a well-rounded experience to all. The 10th floor terrace has a jogging track. Corporate visits, conferences, training sessions, family vacations – there is a lot more that can happen at Starlit Suites. All those seeking a comfortable and pleasant stay for leisure in Kochi would find Starlit Suites to be the solution. At Starlit Suites, guests’ needs and preferences are given prime importance and ultimate care for maximum comfort. The great pro of choosing these service apartments is that it almost matches the care at home. There is no restraint to the spaces. Most of the kitchen utensils required is available here with a bonus of Microwave and Refrigerator, and home food won’t be missed at Starlit Suites. Experience the natural beauty of Kerala or engage yourself at the world-class
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Lulu shopping Mall. Relish the diverse Cuisines or take up the authentic spice flavour that Kerala has to offer. Starlit Suites is downtown living at its best! And Starlit Suites is the best place to stay and experience God’s own country.
March 2018
SHOPPING
Czarina Kota fest
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METRO mart T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
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ota Utsav, the much-awaited, annual summer extravaganza at Trivandrum’s leading designer boutique brings together an awe-inspiring collection of stunning sarees from across the country. Famed for its fine weaves, understated elegance, light weight 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 blockprinted, embroidered, fabric-painted, badla-work, mirror-work 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. 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 held from March 1 to 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, Trivandrum. To know more about the Christmas Collection, visit Czarina’s Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/ CzarinaDesignerSarees or call 9387721322.
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March 2018
Event Scan
Metro Food Award’s 4th edition held at Thiruvananthapuram
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etro Food Awards – Thiruvananthapuram was held at Apollo Dimora, Thiruvananthapuram. Serving as a platform for those in the F&B and Hospitality industries to showcase their expertise and the rigorous selection criterion, this event is held in high acclaim. These awards recognize and commemorate excellence of restaurants in the Southern part of Kerala. The award ceremony was held in association with Kerala Tourism Development Corporation, Kerala Tourism, Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology, and South Kerala Hoteliers Forum.
The awardees were selected based on a set of guidelines. A team of experts from the hospitality sector, industry leaders and professionals constituted the jury. They undertook a meticulous multi-stage process of pre-scoring to shortlist the final candidates.
The awardees were selected based on a set of guidelines. A team of experts from the hospitality sector, industry leaders and professionals constituted the jury. They undertook a meticulous multi-stage process of pre-scoring to shortlist the
final candidates. They also monitored SMS voting by the public and mystery shopping expeditions before judging the entries to decide on the winners.
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METRO mart T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
The gathering was welcomed by Siji Nair, Managing Director, Metro Food Awards 2018. He said that Metro Awards recognizes professionalism and dynamism of restaurants in various cities, as well as the skills and acumen presented by the staff. Voicing his belief that the diners should have the final say to select the finest restaurant, he said that customers are the best judge of culinary experts who serve an appetizing meal with quality service. Metro Food Awards –2018 was presided by KTDC Chairman M. Vijayakumar. The event was inaugurated by Kadakampally Surendran, Minister for Co-operation, Tourism and Devaswom. During his speech, the minister viewed that Keralites have welcomed cuisines from different parts of the world and he appreciated Metro Mart’s effort to recognize excellence in the F&B and hospitality sector. Awards were distributed by the ministers. Minister for Agriculture V.S. Sunil Kumar addressed the gathering at the event and said that people have started changing their eating habits and thinking more on the healthy food terms. He viewed that everyone in the hotel and restaurant industry has to change their products and processes accordingly. Metro Food Awards also celebrated World Water Day 2018 in the presence of Adv. K. Raju, Minister for Forests, Animal Husbandry and Zoos. The
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minister stressed on the need to protect forests for ensuring water resources. He administered a Pledge for Water Conservation to the participants at the event. Logo of Metro Food Awards 2018Calicut was unveiled by Baby Mathew Somatheeram. The event was held in the presence of S.N. Raghu Chandran Nair (President, TCCI), L.V. Kumar (Principal, IHMCT), G. Sudhiesh Kumar (Patron, KHRA), D. Chandrasenan Nair (SKHF) and Cherian Philip (Former Chairman, KTDC).
March 2018
Media Streams
New Media & PR solution venture launched
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n innovative media relations and PR solution venture by name Media Streams was inaugurated in a programme at Hotel Apollo Dimora, Trivandrum by Sri. T.P. Sreenivasan IFS (Retd.), Former Ambassador of India and Governor for India of the IAEA. Sri. ShankerRamakrishnan, Film maker and actor and a lot of other dignitaries attended the programme. Media Streams is a professional group in the field of media tracking and intelligence, media relations, public relations, content development, communication etc. The venture caters to the needs of individuals as well as organisations. Media tracking is a facility extended for high profile persons, public figures, political leaders, business magnates etc. by periodically providing them on a platter with all the information about them or having a bearing on them which appeared on the print and electronic media. Media Streams also keeps track of the online reputation of organizations, product or service and helps them stay
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one step ahead by following the latest industry happenings which could directly or indirectly impact an organization’s decisions. Apart from facilitating extensive media coverage for press releases, they also organize press meets on an end to end basis. The venture provides content for a wide variety of areas including articles on chosen subjects, speeches for all occasions, websites, brochures and marketing materials, catchy captions and slogans for advertisements, content for debates, seminars, workshops etc. They also organise seminars, workshops etc. and provide corporate communication services, training materials, presentations etc. for firms and companies. Sri. T.P. Sreenivasan highlighted the changing face of the world on account of the giant leaps in digital technology and the proliferation of knowledge and the role Media Streams can play in the emerging scenario. Sri. ShankerRamakrishnan underlined the relevance of digital technology in making great things happen in the world with special reference to the film world. 
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March 2018
A D I V I S I O N O F H A P PY & R U BY G R O U P
AUTO WORLD
Czech Performance Affordable, practical and fast are three things that seldom go together and in fact when an auto manufacturer manages to put together all these things into one car, we call it a miracle.
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he Octavia vRS is a beast of a machine when it comes to performance and its quite a looker too. Affordable, practical and fast are three things that seldom go together and in fact when an auto manufacturer manages to put together all these things into one car, we call it a miracle. That’s right. The Octavia vRS is a miracle. The 4 door performance sedan from Skoda is something your parents warned you about as a child. One look and you’ve fallen for it; but don’t worry its not lethal. It won’t burn a hole in your pocket to run and to buy one you do not have to pledge your house. This performance sedan is like no other. Easy to maintain and fun to drive. Its practical and has loads of space for those kids who otherwise would’ve been a problem. It has plenty of leg room for the wife and has enough grunt to put a mile long smile on your face. Yes. This car is everything you dreamed of. But one look at it and you know that it’s no ordinary Octavia. Be it the sporty spoiler in the back or the all black grille with the vRS branding on it, anybody can tell it apart. Inside, the vRS is a place to be and comes packed with black leather with red contrast stitching giving it a very sporty appeal. A turbocharged 2.0 litre TSI engine is the magic behind all this mania. With it under the hood, the vRS goes 0 to 100
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The 4 door performance sedan from Skoda is something your parents warned you about as a child. One look and you’ve fallen for it; but don’t worry its not lethal. in a mere 6.7 seconds putting it in BMW territory which is absolutely bonkers for a car of half the price. Yes the exhaust notes are interesting with satisfactory volume, enough to make your drive a better experience. Don’t be surprised if your path gets blocked by awed pedestrians and other drivers just to take a picture. In fact you’ll have to get used to it. Anywhere you
Ashwadh Prasad
March 2018
go, you’ll have aspiring fans, other petrol heads just like you waiting to hear her go. Now the question that arises in everyone’s minds is, what’s all this hype about. Well, let me break it down for you. The vRS is an ideal car for anyone looking for some fun in life. It has enough space for a family of 4 to 5. It can take all your Baggages and at the end of the day, give you next level performance at half the price. It’s a brilliant package it’s perfect. So perfect that if you want one, you’ll have to wait for a fairly long time as all units have been sold out in hardly a month of its launch. It’s no family car, but it can be. It’s no luxury car, but it can get the work done, and the kids won’t be late to school ever again.
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It’s no luxury car, but it can get the work done, and the kids won’t be late to school ever again. Its a brilliant package and is priced at 35 lakhs on the road, which is arguably cheap for a car of its capability. The car is highly on demand and its next to impossible right now to own one, but keep your fingers crossed and don’t give up hope, you might still be able to buy one when more stocks come in.
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March 2018
DINING
Make Traditional Healthy
Foods at Home PANAGAM
This was very special during Ramanavami Season. My mom used to make it as a Theertham during this day, they make very less and so you get less but it is tasty. Panagam or Panakam is a drink made with Jaggery and spices. It is one of the best natural drinks to beat the heat apart from Neer More (spiced buttermilk). Jaggery is unrefined natural sugar which contains iron and traces of other minerals. It is by far the most natural sweetener and it has the ability to cleanse your body, helps indigestion relieves fatigue, etc. Since it is unrefined it may contain some impurities but you can remove them by dissolving it in water and filtering it. Jaggery is used in many Indian sweets considering its health benefits. Panagam is one of the best ways to add Jaggery to your diet. The drink is made generally as a Neivedhyam (offering to God) for any Pooja at home and temples, especially on the occasion of Ramanavami.
Preparation Time: 5 mins Makes 2 glasses
Ingredients: Jaggery – 1/2 cup Water – 2 cups Cardamom powder – a pinch Dry ginger powder/chukku, soonth – 1/2 tsp Lemon juice (optional) – 2 tsps or to taste Method: Add water to the Jaggery and let it melt. Add cardamom, dry ginger powder, and lemon juice. Mix well. Use a strainer to filter it out. Chill and serve. Tips: You may add few Tulasi (Basil) leaves for garnish. You can also add a pinch of pepper powder to jazz it up. You may omit lemon juice. Just the cardamom and dry ginger gives a wonderful flavour and taste. Another item that we can make at home after we have finished making jaggery is the jaggery-coated banana chips. A lot of Jaggery, dry Ginger powder, and Elaichi remain in the vessel in which the chips are made. So just add water to the vessel and make a drink. 38 March 2018
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MURINGA ELAI ADAI Ingredients: Parboiled rice/idly rice – 2 cups Chana Dal – 1/4 cup Shallots/Asafoetida (Hing) - A handful of shallots or 1/2 tsp hing Dry red chillies – 6-8 Water - Just enough to grind to medium consistency
sides start getting brown, turn over and cook the other side. Cook until both sides turn crisp. Remove from Tava and serve hot. Since this is a spicy Dosa, it does not need chutney. It is traditionally served with unsalted white butter or Jaggery. The same way we make the Verum Maavu Adai (Plain rice adai) and then you can add the Muringa elai(drumstick leaves) in it and that way it become Muringa Elai adai.
Salt to taste Drumstick (Muringa) leaves – 1 cup tightly packed OR Methi leaves – 1 cup washed and chopped For Dosa: Gingely oil/groundnut oil – 1 tsp per Adai Preparation time: Soaking: 3-4 hours Grinding: 10 mins Cooking time: 3 mins/Dosa Method: Wash and soak the rice, Chana Dal, and dry red chillies together for 3-4 hours. Grind the soaked ingredients along with handful of shallots (or 1/2 tsp Asafoetida) coarsely. Since only coarse grinding is necessary, you may use a mixer to grind in batches. Add necessary amounts of water to grind the batter to a medium consistency. Do not make it too loose. Add salt and drumstick leaves/chopped Methi leaves to the batter. Mix well. Batter consistency should be thicker than the dosa batter. Ada Dosa batter does not require fermentation. Heat an iron griddle. Use a cotton cloth to grease the griddle with Gingely oil. When the griddle is hot, spread a ladleful of batter and spread around to make a thick Dosa. My mom never used a ladle to spread Adai. She would use her hand to spread the batter around. Drizzle oil around the Adai batter and in the middle. Do not economize on oil. Since this is a thick Dosa, a good amount of oil is needed so that the batter gets cooked properly. Cook in medium heat. When the www.metromartdaily.com
Raja Gopaal Iyer
Chief Executive Officer Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Resort & Spa,Trivandrum
March 2018
DINING
Champagne Delights
For Every Celebration Saying Cheers With Champagne Drinks
Have something to celebrate? Yippee!! It is party time. Can you celebrate without a drink in your hand? No way! So go ahead and make your celebration hours rocking with some impressive champagne drinks. Not only will they make your cocktails trendy and refreshing, they will earn you all the praise from your loved ones. Kickoff the celebrations by knowing the names and recipes of the most popular Champagne drinks. 40 March 2018
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Pomegranate Champagne
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Ingredients Champagne (or sparkling fruit juice) Pomegranate seeds Pomegranate juice Preparation - At the bottom of the champagne glass, place around 1 tsp of pomegranate seeds. - Now pour 2-4 tbsp of pomegranate juice to the glass. - Fill the rest of the glass with champagne.
Bellini Sushie Ingredients
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6 cups frozen peach chunks (about 6 peaches) 1 cup peach schnapps 1 bottle Champagne (chilled) Preparation - Blend peach schnapps and peach chunks in a blender until smooth. - Fill 8 champagne flutes halfway with blended peach mixture. - Fill the top half of the flutes with Champagne. - Enjoy!
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March 2018
Nectar of the Gods
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Ingredients Champagne Cranberry Juice Cranberries (fresh or frozen) Limes Preparation - In a champagne glass, pour 8 oz of cranberry juice. - Now squeeze some lime and drop in the lime wedge. - Add Champagne in the glass. - Garnish it with a few cranberries.
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Lanesborough Cocktail Ingredients 66 oz Grand Marnier .66 oz Cranberry juice .66 oz Passion fruit juice or puree 2 oz MoĂŤt & Chandon Champagne Orange peel for garnish Preparation - Combine Grand Marnier, Cranberry juice and Passion fruit juice or puree in a shaker. - Add ice. Then shake vigorously. - Strain into a chilled Champagne flute. - Top it with the MoĂŤt & Chandon Champagne. - Use orange spiral twist for garnishing.
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Aperitif Ingredients
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1 oz. Gin 1 oz. Aperol or Campari 1 oz. Dry Vermouth 3 oz. Prosecco or Champagne Preparation - In a flute glass, add and stir Gin, Aperol and Vermouth until blended. - Top with Prosecco. - Garnish it with a long orange peel.
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Pineapple Coconut Champagne Cocktail
Ingredients Organic Pineapple Juice (chilled well) Organic Coconut Juice Blend (chilled well) Champagne or Prosecco (chilled well) Simple Syrup Unsweetened finely shredded coconut Preparation - Pour some simple syrup in a small bowl. - Add shredded coconut in another small bowl. - Dip the top quarter or so of your champagne glasses in the simple syrup and then in the shredded coconut. - In both the cases, make sure the rim of the champagne glasses is well-coated. -N ow fill each champagne glass with 1½ ounces of pineapple and coconut juices (each). -  Fill the rest of the glass with either Champagne or Prosecco and serve. Please note: Simple Syrup is a 1:1 sugar water ratio syrup. To make simple syrup, combine equal amounts of sugar and water in a pan, simmer it while stirring it, so that the sugar dissolves completely. Transfer it in an air-tight container and chill it until ready to use.
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March 2018
Blackberry Thyme Sparkler Ingredients
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1 cup blackberries + 8 more for garnish, 1 cup Water, 1 cup Sugar, 1 bottle of Champagne, 4 ounces or 1/2 c. Gin, 4 long sprigs of Thyme, 1 cup Ice, Gold Baking Sugar for the rim Preparation - Bring blackberries, water, and sugar to a boil in a saucepan. - Reduce the flame and simmer for 10 minutes, until the blackberries are soft and the simple syrup has turned to a bright pink or reddish color. - Remove from heat. Drain the blackberries, and allow it to cool. - It is time to prepare your champagne glasses. - Start by adding 1 ounce gin to each champagne glass. - Now drop 2 blackberries in each glass, followed by 2 ounces of homemade blackberry simple syrup. - Fill the rest of the glass with Champagne - Top with a sprig of thyme in each glass. *Put a little butter around the rim before dipping in sugar.Â
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Cotton Candy Champagne Cocktails Ingredients Champagne, Cotton Candy Preparation - Fill champagne flutes with Champagne. - Before serving the cocktails, add a small ball of cotton candy on top of each glass. - Make sure the CC (cotton candy) does not touch the champagne, or else it will melt. *Avoid adding the Cotton Candy too early as it tends to lose its fluffiness with time.
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March 2018
FESTIVAL
Temple of Truth
Sri Chamundi Temple at Karikkakom
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S
ri Chamundi Temple at Karikkakom is an ancient pilgrimage destination steeped in history. Considered as a fierce form of Kali – the Devi Chamundi is worshipped in three forms at this temple. Maha Chamundi, Raktha Chamundi and Bala Chamundi – the three different forms are worshipped in three separate, but adjacent sanctums. Situated on the banks of the river Parvathy Puthanar, this temple has been considered as an abode of truth and justice, right from the days of the Maharaja’s reigns. Proving innocence and getting justice at the Devi’s feet still continues at this famous temple in Thiruvananthapuram – the capital city of Kerala. Devotees carry forward the ancient practice of taking the oath of truth in front of the deity. According to folklore, when valuable items were stolen from the palace, the Maharaja himself had the sacred sanctum sanctorum opened and prayed to the Devi for guidance in recovering the stolen items. And as he was blessed by the Devi, he is said to have gifted the temple with a year’s festival expenses. Presently, thousands visit this sacred temple and remit penal charges to open the temples and pray for fulfillment of their wishes.
Situated 2 kms from Chackai and 7 km from Thiruvananthapuram city, Karikkakom Temple has Kochu Veli as the nearest railway station and a major one as Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station. The reinstallation of panchaloha idol of the Goddess Sri Chamundi took place in 1997. The rituals were led by Brahmasree Rishimangalam Vasudeva Potti. Kanippayyoor Krishnan Namboothiri supervised the construction of the main hall, outer halls and the sub shrines. The temple is open during 5 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Hundreds of devotees visit the temple everyday to pay obeisance to the Goddess. During festival days the number of pilgrims goes above thousands. Pongala is exclusively for the women. Lakhs
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March 2018
During the Pongala festival, the idol of Devi is carried in a golden chariot around the temple and thousands of devotees gather to witness the procession.
of women devotees throng the temple premises to offer Pongala Nivedyam to the Goddess Chamundi. The ceremony starts with the chief priest of Karikkakom Devi Temple lighting the main hearth from the divine fire inside the sanctum sanctorum. This fire is exchanged from one oven to another through all the ovens in the premises. Rice, jaggery, ghee, coconut and other ingredients are cooked in earthen pots and pans. Mostly around noon, the chief priest of the temple sprinkles holy water and flower petals and blesses the devotees who offer Pongala. Every year devotees offer Pongala to Karikkakom Chamundi Devi on Makam Nakshatra in the
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Meenam month, since it is believed that the Devi’s star is Makam in the Malayalam month of Meenam. Situated 2 kms from Chackai and 7 km from Thiruvananthapuram city, Karikkakom Temple has Kochu Veli as the nearest railway station and a major one as Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station. Meticulously crafted sculptures are seen on the rajagopuram with hundreds of idols of gods and goddesses on the four lateral sides of the tower illustrating episodes from Hindu puranas. The other deities in the temple are Sastha, Ganapathi, Bala Ganapathi, Yakshiyamma, Bhuvaneshvari, Ayiravalli, Manthramurthi,
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March 2018
Yogeeshwaran and Naagar. Medicinal plants, numerous trees and creepers are seen in the Naagar Kavu near the temple. Devotees offer Pooja and Nurum Palum at this Naagar Kavu on Ayilyam days. Bali Sadya held in the Malayalam month of Karkitaka, Nirayum Puthariyum, Uthrada Thaneerkuda in the month of Chingam, Kodi Charthu on Thiruvonam day, and Ayilyam Oottu in the month of Makaram are some of the rituals conducted at Karikkakom Chamundi Temple. During the Pongala festival, the idol of Devi is carried in a golden chariot around the temple and thousands of devotees gather to witness the procession. Goddess Chamundi is worshipped in three forms – the fierce form of Kali (providing justice), Goddess of truth and as Universal mother or in the nurturing form – at Karikkakom Chamundi Devi Temple. With prayers on their lips and devotion in their heart, devotees throng Karikkakom Chamundi Devi Temple – the seat of Satya (truth), Dharma (personal duty) and Neethi (justice).A trip through the numerous forests and hill stations in Kerala will take you to some of the best waterfalls and dams you have ever seen
50 March 2018
in your life. The water gushing down the rocks, intruded by rollicking foliage is a sight a beholder can’t blink at. Waterfalls like Athirappally, Soochipara, Thusharagiri or Thommankoothu will enable you to experience such facets of nature that is calm, soothing and wild, all at the same time. The beautifully landscaped road to Athirappally gives you glimpses of
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March 2018
Focus Event
Expedition Launched at ITB Berlin
T
he first edition of Metro Expedition – a magazine showcasing India as a primary tourist destination – was launched at ITB Berlin, Germany on March 8, 2018. The release was done by the Union Minister of State for Tourism Alphons Kannanthanam along with Suman Billa IAS, Joint Secretary Ministry of Tourism, Kerala Travel Mart President Baby Mathew, Metro Expedition Publisher Siji Nair, Chairman and MD of Intersight Tours & Travels Abraham George, Corporate Director of Somatheeram Health Resorts Suresh John Jacob and other leaders of hospitality industry. The inaugural edition of Metro Expedition includes a travelogue on Goecha La of Sikkim, an exploration of Hampi in Karnataka, a look into the Glove Puppeteers of Kerala, a train trip in Thunderbolt Express, and a pictorial journey through the Himalayas in addition to various other articles.
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Metro Expedition received wide appreciation from all quarters for its intensive showcasing of various destinations in India. Metro Expedition received wide appreciation from all quarters for its intensive showcasing of various destinations in India. This monthly magazine with an international clientele is the latest addition to the publications from Metro Mart group. The other publications from the group include Metro Mart – a monthly lifestyle magazine from Thiruvananthapuram, and Executive Knowledge Lines – a knowledge-based magazine.
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FANDANGO 2018 concluded with pomp & glory
F
andango 2018 – The food and fun festival conducted by the Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology at Kovalam – concluded at Trivandrum.The Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology set up by Ministry of Tourism, Government of India imparts hospitality training for developing the professional human resource for the hospitality and related Industries. A well-rounded personality is the focus and the Institute provides ample opportunity for Extracurricular Activities like Sports, Cultural Fests and Co-curricular events like Food Fests and Theme dinners through which the students hone their managerial as well as entrepreneurial skills. The three-day Fandango has carved a niche for itself as the premier gourmet event of the city. It provided an opportunity for the students to widen horizons by testing their managerial efficiency, team spirit and assisted them in showcasing their skills. The students under
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The three-day Fandango has carved a niche for itself as the premier gourmet event of the city. the guidance of the faculty had conceived, planned and executed every aspect of the fair. The 9 food stalls included Arabic, Dosa, Indian, North Indian Street Food, Continental, Ethnic Kerala, Mocktails, Sweets & Pastries, & Tandoor. There were 3 entertainment stalls. The hospitality fair – Fandango – was a feast to the aesthetic appetite with its cultural programmes of Kathakali, Instrumental Fusion Music, and Shingari Melam. The principal of IHMCT L.V. Kumar said that the active co-operation of students, dedicated efforts of faculty and staff members, the wholehearted support of hoteliers, tourism stakeholders, and others led to the resounding success of the event. Mr. S.P. Kamra, Senior Faculty of Delhi IHM awarded the best stallholders put up by student committees during the event . March 2018
SHOPPING
Mall of Travancore Enlivening the Cityites
T
hiruvananthapuram has another attraction for its cityites and visitors – Mall of Travancore. Malabar Group’s Mall of Travancore was inaugurated by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on March 23rd. Situated near Chakka on NH 66 bypass, this is the capital’s first state-of-the-art shopping mall that has come up near Chakka on the National Highway 66 bypass. Over 150 stores of 300 brands in three floors is spread over 6.5
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lakh sq. ft. area. The public response to this muchawaited entertainment venue is huge. Thousands have been thronging the Mall to experience a new concept in Thiruvananthapuram for shopping and fun. Right from day one, the cityites have welcomed the mall with their whole heart, which is evident from the crowd that has been flowing to Mall of Travancore. Environment-friendly initiatives
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The grandeur of Mall of Travancore and Malabar Group does not end with these amazing experiences to the public – The group has also several CSR initiatives in process. by Mall of Travancore would make the environmentalists happy and add to the charm for the public. A vertical garden makes up 70% of the façade at Mall of Travancore. This green mall would open for the morning walkers who can stroll down walkway which is about a kilometer. The seven multiplex theatres at this Mall provide an incredible cinema experience for the movie-goers. Shopaholics would find the electronics, home appliances showroom, hyper market, jewellery showrooms and lifestyle product
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showrooms to be overwhelming. For the casual shoppers, be ready to be surprised with the offers raining at this shopping center. Foodies can rejoice with the provision of food court with 22 multicuisine restaurants at Mall of Travancore. The indoor play area named Playaza for the Kiddies is 15000 sq. ft in play area with a 9D theatre, 60 video kiosks, and 11 indoor rides. The grandeur of Mall of Travancore and Malabar Group does not end with these amazing experiences to the public – The group has also several CSR initiatives in process. At the inaugural function of the Mall, CSR Project of the Malabar Group was also inaugurated by the Chief Minister. This CSE project aims to build houses for the homeless people. Shamlal Ahammed (MD, International Operations) and O. Asher (MD, India operations) handed over the funds for the same to the Chief Minister. Kudos to them! The visitors at Mall of Travancore could have an added bonanza – celebrities would be spending time at the mall. They might meet their favourite actors in person -
March 2018
Dulquer Salmaan, Bollywood actor Kareena Kapoor are some of the actors who would visit Mall of Travancore. Sports lovers, don’t miss! Cricketers and football players are also expected at the Mall. Brand conscious shoppers can find quite a number of leading international and Indian brands at Mall of Travancore. Apart from the brands that have already made its presence felt in Thiruvananthapuram, Mall of Travancore has brought in several new players. It is a first for Thiruvananthapuram to have a venue where diverse entertainment options and shopping are brought under one roof. Since inauguration, it is seen that people are in a mode of celebration at Mall of Travancore. It has become the G-To Venue for celebration of any nature. After a day at the beach or in the city or at work, the best place to unwind is Mall of Travancore. The convenience of having a place to chill out very near to the airport, makes it ideal for air travelers. For road travelers from Kanyakumari or Kollam passing through the Bypass, Mall of Travancore is an excellent stopover.
The mall is all about leisure, fun, and shopping, all under a single roof,” said Malabar Group Chairman M.P. Ahammed. He also added that as much as 5% of the income generated by Mall of Travancore would go to charity. M. P. Ahammed Chairman of Malabar Group of Companies
While being a wholesome entertainment center, Mall of Travancore has also ensured that it takes up social responsibilities. The sumptuous food court, the wowfactor at the cinemas, the amazing play zones for kids, the enchanting shopping experience – et al makes Mall of Travancore a unique addition to liven the spirits of Thiruvananthapuram cityites. “The mall is all about leisure, fun, and shopping, all under a single roof,” said Malabar Group Chairman M.P. Ahammed. He also added that as much as 5% of the income generated by Mall of Travancore would go to charity.
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Care & Cure Home Health Care Services Medical Care for Patients at Home
H
ome-based medical care is a concept new to Thiruvananthapuram – This concept in care has been brought to the city by Care and Cure Home Health Care Services. They started with just one nurse and has now grown to 5 offices and laboratories with over 35 full-time staff. Making it a convenient option, Care and Cure serves patients with home visits. Patients of all kinds get to see a doctor, do a medical test or collect their medicines right at their home. Some patients, who are recuperating after admission at hospitals, require daily medical attention until they recover completely. This posthospitalization treatment is provided by Care and Cure.
visit. Care and Cure makes it easier by treating them at home. The team at Care and Cure includes doctors, nurses, medical lab technologists, physiotherapists, psychologists and more. Combined professional experience is over a hundred years. Care and Cure operates its own medical laboratories. Instruments and equipments found in a hospital are available with them. Complex equipments like ECG machines are also available with Care and Cure, which can be set up and used at the homes of patients. Care and Cure Home Health Care Services provides reliable and quality services. The organization responds to calls from all parts of Thiruvananthapuram district. Their services are detailed in their website Careandcure1.com. Call 7 999 333 000 to book their services over the phone. Care and Cure Home Health Care Services – Effective medical care for patients, right at home. 
Bed-ridden patients due to illness or patients confined to a bed by the doctor will still have normal human needs. Care and Cure does things like giving them a bed bath, treating wounds, manicure and pedicure etc. It also provides housekeeping and laundry services to patients. The organization takes special care of elderly people due to them probably having more medical needs than other people. But not all illnesses need a hospital www.metromartdaily.com
March 2018
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sa Pra
Photographed by Smitha Prasad in the outskirts of Bangalore.
Red whiskered baby bulbuls, less than a week old, ensconced in their tiny cup shaped nest, delicately perched on the low branches of a bush which is hardly four feet tall; drawing attention to the innocent trusting nature of these birds. We can’t help but wonder at the craftsmanship of the neatly woven nest .
Red whiskered baby bulbul
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ha mit
The Picture Page
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March 2018
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