METRO NEWS
State Capital gets back in National Capital with Tharoor The ‘Global Leader of Tomorrow’ is back in Trivandrum as the Minister of State for Human Resource Development to raise its glory. We are sure Thiruvananthapuram is going to get its due from Tharoor with his capacity as the Central Minister. Anagha P
10
Shashi Tharoor – author, columnist, elocutionist, human rights activist, United Nations peacekeeper, refugee worker, the elected member of the Indian Parliament from the Trivandrum – words are not enough to describe this intelligent personality who has made a mark in all the paths he has walked through. After a gap of two-and-a-half-years, Shashi Tharoor, Congress MP from Thiruvananthapuram, is back in the Union ministry as a Minister of State for Human Resource Development. He was forced to resign from the Union
November 2012 T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
Visit: http://www.gomart.co.in
ministry in 2010 as Minister of State for External Affairs in the wake of the IPL controversy. ”Many things can be done in the HRD Ministry for the youth. They are India’s future. I am putting all the controversies behind me and I am confident that I will be able to do something for them. I will be getting in touch with all the Ministers at the Centre to solve our big and small problems,” said Tharoor, who arrived to a rousing reception at the airport in Thiruvananthapuram Monday afternoon after becoming the Union Minister of State for Human Resource Development. Shashi Tharoor started his political journey in India by contesting the elections in 2009 as a Congress party candidate from Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala. During this time, he was criticized as an outsider. However, despite of all the opposition, he won the elections defeating his nearest rival P. Ramachandran Nair. Subsequently, after his success in elections he was selected as the Minister of State for External Affairs. Being the new era politician, he used his political website and social networking sites to interact with the people. Some of his posts on noted networking sites created controversies, which eventually died with time. Charges against him over his share in IPL cricket franchise
of Cochin made him to resign from his ministry. Now, he is back in the Union ministry as a Minister of State for Human Resource Development, after a gap of two-and-a half-years. He will be continuing to work for the State and the country and the people, particularly the youth. Young and old can now wait for surprises. The Minister has a bunch of projects and plans for the city as he has a special love for his hometown. Let’s dream for a brighter and better Trivandrum.
T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
November 2012
11
HEALTH
Have A Taste Of Good Health A good diet is very important for a healthy life. According to experts, most of the diseases in Kerala are due to unrestrained food habits. Anagha P
With major food retail outlets setting up shops in Trivandrum, the city’s youth may be headed for a fast food culture. Experts, however, warn that such diets may be unhealthy and point out that the state’s population is already bustling with diseases ranging from hypertension to obesity. Delicious dishes displayed on the huge billboards in and around the city are tempting. The aroma and visuals of fried chicken exhibited outside food joints trigger instant attraction. The mix of Arabian and traditional delicacies make people forget their long planned diets and weight loss resolutions.
12
November 2012 T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
Visit: http://www.gomart.co.in
Scientific studies have shown rising instances of hypertension, increased cholesterol level and diabetics among Keralites and attribute this to their dietary habits. A healthy diet is one that helps maintain or improve health. It is significant in one’s life as it prevents them from chronic health risks such as obesity, heat diseases, diabetes and cancer. A healthy diet involves consuming appropriate amount of minerals and the right quantity of water along with abundant macronutrients and micronutrients. This, to say, is the simplest
way of explaining what a good diet is all about. In addition to this, there are many specific diets that have been primarily developed to promote better health in specific population groups such as people with high blood pressure or obese. Obesity and overweight has become a major problem among Keralites. One out of every ten women in God’s own Country is fascinated with the advertisements of weight reduction tablets, which are available in plenty
“When you are physically active and fit, your metabolism will work more efficiently. You will be better able to ward off obesity and the health issues that stem from obesity. Your body will become firmer, stronger, leaner, and more flexible. You will see an increase in your energy level as well. As you become more energetic, handling all the other tasks and stressors that arise each day should become easier” Jayasree Food and Nutrition specialist, KIMS Hospital, Trivandrum
T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
November 2012
13
and might have experimented with it. But experts say these tablets can result serious side effects. The safest way is to follow weight control diet for weight loss. Health, education and Food businesses are booming in Kerala. Most of us
prefer to spend half of our lives with fried, crunchy munches and then step into hospitals. So take a minute to think about your eating habits before walking into food joints dreaming of heavenly dishes. Prevention is always better than cure!
“By eating well-balanced meals in the correct amounts, you can learn to thrive with all health issues. Make fitness a habit! In the beginning, you may have to force yourself to do those exercises. Don’t give up, though! Be consistent, devoted, and dedicated to improving your fitness. In time, those workouts will become a habit, and you will look forward to the daily sessions”
Divya Dietician, NIMS Hospital, Trivandum.
14
November 2012 T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
Visit: http://www.gomart.co.in
ON FACE
“India Should Become Global Health Care Destination” M S Faizal Khan Managing Director, NIMS Medicity speaks about NIMS Heart Foundation and health care in Kerala in an interview with Anagha P What is your vision about NIMS growing as a global player in healthcare domain? In future Kerala will be one of the global healthcare destinations and NIMS would play an important role in it. We have highly skilled and talented medical professionals, infrastructure and technology that matches the best in the world. In the next five years, I see NIMS taking a leadership role in our state’s journey towards global leadership in healthcare. We have, and will continue, to lead several efforts in clinical medicine, neurology, cardiology, oncology, infrastructure, technology and innovative services such as disease management and preventive healthcare.
16
November 2012 T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
Visit: http://www.gomart.co.in
How does NIMS Heart Foundation stand out from the rest of the medical institutions in Kerala? None of the hospitals in Kerala would give free treatments like we offer in NIMS. When we started this hospital in the state capital, we realized that there are lots of patients in Kerala who needs treatment and care but are poor. So we decided to provide them the best healthcare as charity. We give them free cardiac surgeries, free dialysis, food and accommodation. Out of the 4000 angiograms, 1003 angioplasty and 490 open heart surgeries we completed most of them had been given at least a bill reduction. With the support of dedicated doctors and
staff NIMS will always be one of the best heart foundations in Kerala. Could you explain us about the Noorul Islam Education Trust? My father, Dr Majeed Khan started this trust in 1956 with a motto to provide quality education to the students. We received University status in 2008. NIMS will soon start a Medical College in Trivandrum. We have received afflation from the University of Kerala. Since we have already excelled in the courses like IT, Arts, Science, Dental Science and Healthcare, we are planning to start a new aviation academy too. I am very much excited about our Civil Service Academy which started to inspire children to become nation’s best bureaucrats.
T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
November 2012
17
M S Faizal Khan, Managing Director of NIMS Medicity and Noorul Islam Education Trust shares his insights and dreams on improving nation’s health care system. As a leading medical institution in India, Noorul Islam Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS) & Research Foundation always conquer its motto ‘Quality hi tech care at the most affordable Cost’. NIMS finds itself fighting to hold the line on costs while maintaining quality, attracting the most qualified staff, and providing access to affordable health care. Established in 2007 as a small hospital with 4 doctors and 14 staffs aiming to create Medicity that links patient care, research, and education, the clinic has long been a crucible for experimentation and innovation. Faizal Khan has shepherded NIMS to unprecedented levels of excellence in patient care, teaching and research.
18
November 2012
mart
Through an entrance exam we select 70 eighth standard students from different schools in the city. The best 10 students will be given free caching till they write the Civil Service Entrance exam. We are also planning to launch a Nan satellite called ‘NIUSAT’ with the help of ISRO which would be beneficial for the fisheries and agricultural sectors of Kerala. What would be that one word which would explain –NIMS’ MD’s- state of mind now? Satisfaction. To be the Managing Director of a global and multidimensional healthcare institution like NIMS is not so easy. It is very difficult to offer charity in a state like Kerala where majority of the patients comes from poor family. But the satisfaction and happiness I get from supporting and saving many lives is beyond words.
Visit: http://www.gomart.co.in
HEALTH
KIMS
Care with courtesy, compassion and competence For years, the patient centered care at KIMS has been a familiar and a comforting touchstone for Indian community, creating new standards and thus setting them apart. KIMS Superspeciality Hospital in Trivandrum has rightfully earned the status of one among the top 10 best hospitals as it is widely accepted by the public for providing the best services in patient care, teaching and research.
Anagha P
Dr M I Sahadulla Chairman & Managing Director KIMS
20
November 2012 T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
It is one of the leading hospitals for medical advances and has been ranked among the five for the practices of cardiology, gynaecology, neurology and neurosurgery, urology, and rheumatology. The hospital is known across the globe for incorporating medical breakthroughs into the care of its patients.
Visit: http://www.gomart.co.in
Known as one of Asia’s leading tertiary care hospitals, KIMS has become landmark healthcare destination in Kerala. The hospital initiated by the KIMS Healthcare Management Ltd
always values its objective - providing world class healthcare services and specialized medical facilities at affordable costs.
T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
November 2012
21
Patients and families trust this multispecialty hospital as it is popular for its highly qualified, well experienced senior consultants who are ably supported by high caliber nursing professionals and paramedical staff who are dedicated to deliver most modern healthcare. “We strongly hold our motto – ‘Care with courtesy, compassion and com¬petence’. We at KIMS are equipped with some of the most advanced facilities in the world and some of the most eminent names in several medical specialties and super-specialties. Today, patients come to KIMS expecting the best. It says a lot about the reputation that has been built over the years and the expectations we need to live up each time a patient approaches us,” says Dr. M.I Sahadulla, Chairman & Managing Director. Established in 2002, KIMS has been creating and nurturing a diverse community of the best people committed to leadership in alleviating human suffering caused by disease. KIMS has to its credit the unique achievement of National (National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare
22
November 2012 T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
Providers - NABH), and International (Australian Council on Healthcare Standards International - ACHSI) accreditation for its dedicated healthcare of uncompromising quality. We are empaneled with Government & Semi-Government Institutions in India, Republic of Maldives, Sultanate of Oman, Bahrain, UAE, US and UK. KIMS is an empaneled center for Australian/ Canadian Visa Medicals. For years, the patient centered care at KIMS has been a familiar and a comforting touchstone for Indian community, creating new standards and thus setting them apart. The professionals and staffs here are committed to being the leader in providing internationally accepted, efficient and ethical high quality care through a dedicated healthcare team, effective leadership and up to date technology. KIMS continues working towards enhancing clinical excellence and quality, they also concentrate on increasing the clinical efficiency, which ultimately improves patient care. The hospital believes that a judicious blend of technology, clinical expertise and personalized care is the mantra for attaining excellence in patient satisfaction.
Visit: http://www.gomart.co.in
KIMS Anayara (0471 3041318
ON FACE
Against The Odds As the founding Director of RCC, can you give a brief insight about the origin of the institution? Initially I was working at the Trivandrum Medical College, where we had a cancer wing there, which was one of the biggest cancer wings attached to a medical college at that time. There were facilities to some extend but not an optimal one. In the meantime T.V. Thomas, industrial minister got cancer and as we did not have good facilities in Trivandrum we send him to Mumbai for treatment. I used to accompany him for treatment. There I saw many people from Kerala seeking treatment for cancer. They had to lead a hellish life there. Accommodation facilities were not available for all; therefore they had to depend on hotels
24
November 2012 T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
Visit: http://www.gomart.co.in
Padma Shri Dr. Krishnan Nair is the man behind one of the largest cancer centers in the country – the Regional Cancer Centre, Trivandrum. This institution in its long run has made great strides in the war on cancer. Krishnan Nair is one of the leading oncologists in the country today and has implemented several programmes in Kerala State such as Ten-Year Action Plan, Low Cost Cancer Insurance, Pain and Palliative Care programmes, Pediatric Oncology and Community Oncology, all of which have grabbed eyeballs around the world. Krishnan Nair, the veteran in health map of Kerala speaks about RCC and cancer care in Kerala in an interview with Pooja Jayan.
which cost about Rs. 800-1000 at that time. I really felt the need of having a good cancer centre in Kerala so that our people can get better treatment without going to distant places. After coming back from Mumbai I talked to the Chief Minister Achutha Menon and he suggested that we can possibly start an institution where people from Kerala can get optimal treatment for cancer. It was the starting point of RCC which we see today. What do you have to say about the role of corporates in medical field? Corporates have played all along a very good role in medical field. But there are some problems too; one is that they focus on metros only, which will create a geographic barrier in attaining health services. A certain segment of people can only access
metros for treatments. Another one is the financial barrier; poor people often cannot afford the treatments in high-class hospitals by corporates. Cultural barrier is also an issue to be tackled as a villager would not like to go to a corporate hospital like Apollo with all the posh interiors. But the palliative care given by such hospitals is worth mentioning. For effective diagnosis and treatment of cancer people from different parts of the state have to approach RCC for treatment. Don’t you think the facilities in other medical colleges should be upgraded? Yes, of course. The cancer patients have to travel down to Trivandrum for treatment, follow-ups, etc., and they have to spend a good amount for travel every time they visit RCC.
T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
November 2012
25
Actually we are committing a crime by making the patients come to the same institution again and again thereby spending a good amount on travel. I feel that we should have three cancer centers i.e. in South, North and Central Kerala. In America, the system is such that every hospital has a cancer wing too. For 100% curable cancers like Childhood cancer and so on, they have set up institutions particularly dedicated to the treatment of such cancer. It is mandatory to go to that particular institution for treatment of such cancers. Ordinary forms of cancer have treatments in general hospitals. Thus stress on a particular institution will be diluted and will be shared by many institutions. This technique should be
26
November 2012 T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
adopted in our state too. Can you tell about the standard of cancer treatment facilities in our state? In certain specialties we are getting the State-of-the-art treatment, while in certain others we probably lack behind other states. The metros in Kerala have a lot of private hospitals which are focusing on cancer. If we compare the care given to individual patients our RCC or medical colleges could not match the standards of those hospitals. The patients are getting a standard care in RCC, but it is not the same as in case of other medical colleges. The facilities in medical colleges have to be improved to provide State-of-
Visit: http://www.gomart.co.in
the-art treatment for the patients. In radiation therapy, we have reached the penultimate level of standards, but in surgical treatment I cannot say the same. In Pathology too we have reached international standards. In the case of medical oncology as far as bone marrow transplant is concerned we have achieved high standards. In the case of pediatric oncology we have not reached international standards so far. In case of palliative care we are far behind private hospitals. The general standard of treatment has to improve in several aspects.
Do we have effective early detection programmes for cancer as well as life insurance schemes to help the patients? Earlier we had plans for early diagnosis and treatment. There was a 10-year action plan where number of people was trained for prevention of cancer and early detection of cancer. Around a lakh were trained across the state. This program reduced tobacco consumption, improved early detection, enhanced therapy facilities, and provided palliative care and pain relief to substantial sections of dying
T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
November 2012
27
cancer patients. After 2000, it was never pursued. If you look at the state of illness now more advanced cases come to RCC than it used to be earlier. There is no point in spending a lot of money and treating advanced cancer, what they need is palliative care. We have to reassess RCC’s role in community and bring about early detection programs. Only 20% of cancer cases come to RCC at initial stages, the rest 80% come only at later stages. The main objective of RCC should be to bring cancer patients to the institution at a curable stage and give them State-of-the-art treatment. NHRM can probably come up with early cancer detection programs. We don’t have effective insurance plans to help the patients. At least for catastrophic diseases like stroke, cancer, leukemia, heart attack, etc., we should have a universal health care program. The treatments for these diseases are expensive. A universal health care system should come up for such diseases so that the financial burden for the treatment of such diseases can be reduced to a greater extent. Lifestyles of people often lead to cancer. What is your say on it? Negative impact of increased life expectancy is that it increases the rate of certain diseases too. Cancer increases as our life expectancy is grow-
28
November 2012 T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
ing up. As life expectancy increases the number of older people will increase and cancer rates too increase corresponding to it. If we take death rates we can note that death in youth is often caused due to communicable diseases and death above 40 is due to non-communicable diseases like cancer, stroke, etc. Another reason is that our socio-economic condition has increased and consequently people have money to spend for alcohol, tobacco, etc. This in turn may lead to cancer. What is your advice to general public as a doctor? A few simple changes in your daily life can significantly reduce the risk of cancer. Regular exercise of 30 minutes is necessary. One of the most important decisions you can make is to stop using tobacco and limit the consumption of alcohol as well. Putting the right foods into your body on a daily basis makes you healthy; eat fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to strengthen your immune system.
Visit: http://www.gomart.co.in
HEALTH
A commitment to care Kerala ENT Research Foundation is a leading ENT hospital in South Kerala, trusted for its eminence in complete ENT care. Established over 3 years ago, this ISO 9001: 2008 certified hospital is renowned for the excellent quality of treatment in all cases related to ear, nose and throat. What makes KERF a trustworthy and dependable ENT centre is its expert panel of specialists, state-of- the art equipment, qualified medical & paramedical staff and high standards of hygiene. KERF offers both in-patient and out-patient treatment facilities and has, over the years treated more than 20,000 patients from within India and abroad.
health insurance companies. The hospital also offers transportation and accomodation for patients from outside India. To further extend the reach of its service, KERF is launching a chain of ENT Clinics across Kerala and even in neighbouring states. Through this initiative, KERF aim to become the foremost name in ENT care, trusted for the quality of its treatment and service. The avowed objective of KERF is to create awareness and promote healthy living practices with regard to ENT, by providing excellent care and furthering scientfic research in the field of Otorhinolaryngology.
KERF provides cashless treatment facility for health insurance card holders by way of its tie-ups with leading
30
November 2012 T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
Visit: http://www.gomart.co.in
KERF Kumarapuram (9745400600
HEALTH
S K Centre for Urology SK Hospital is one of the best upcoming hospitals in Trivandrum. With 27 super specialities S K Hospital have recently designed and moulded to accommodate more than 600 outpatients as well as 200 inpatients, from 100 beds, with a single ownership.
SK Center for Urology offers an extensive range of treatment for urological problems and disorders with impeccable care using the state of the art equipments and consultants who are leading experts in the field. We provide excellent treatment even for the poor patients availing the facilities in affordable charges and they can leave the hospital on the same day after the procedure. The treatment cost varies from INR 15,000 to INR 25,000, and there are no hidden charges for this effective treatment. The facilities in SK Centre for Urology includes Bipolar TURP, EXTRACORPOREAL SHOCK WAVE LITHOTRIPSY (ESWL)-state of art of Dornier Compact Sigma machine for fragmenting
32
November 2012 T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
Renal stones without surgery and all Laparoscopic Urologic as well as Endoscopic Urologic Surgeries. There are several advantages of ESWL over other treatments for stones. These include outpatient procedure that takes one hour, reasonably successful, no cutting or invasion of the body at all, low risk of infection from hospital bacteria. And its a non-painful treatment. Faclities provided by SK Urology Department contains fully automated Biochemistry, Microbiological & Pathological Laboratory (Tied up with CMC, Velloor for External Quality Control). A team of experts in the field, Dr. Vinod K.V MS, Mch(Uro) Senior Consultant Urologist, Dr. Anup G.R MBBS MS Mch (urology) and Dr. Deepak Chandran MS, MRCS(Edinburgh), Mch (Urology) are our chief consultants.
Visit: http://www.gomart.co.in
S K Hospital Edapazhanji (0471 3022222
WELLNESS
Sound Mind & Sound Body A sound mind in a sound body – To achieve a happy state in the world, each and everyone requires these two. A person should never lack either of these. Sound mind and sound body are mutually reflective and interactive. V Viswanath A good feeling of the mind would energize the body. And the mind of a person would be worried, if he/she has any physical disorders or pain to body parts. Hence, pursuing health and wellness of both body and mind is of utmost importance. Over centuries, religious traditions, philosophy, psychology, all have sought to analyze the concept of mind. The instruments they used differed and the routes they followed are various. The perspectives evolved are too numerous to count. The physical human body consists of a head, neck, torso, two arms and two legs. Over the last century, technology has played a great role in improving medical knowledge. Medical research has made massive progress in assessment of human body. Metro Mart, in an effort to play its part in total development of the society, would have a new featured article from the next issue on. This article would touch upon different aspects of mind and body. It would briefly
outline various doctrines, religious discourses, yoga, meditation, etc., Brief notes on different medical systems, medical conditions, treatment, etc. would also be included.
T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
November 2012
33
Sound Mind Fast for a specified number of days, but if any one amoung you is ill or on a journey, let him fast the same number of days later. For those who can fast only with extreme difficulty, there is a way to compensatethe feeding of a needy person. But he who does good of his own accord shall be well rewarded: but to fast is better for you, if you only knew - [The Quran, 2:184]
The above verse of The Quran states, fasting is for a prescribed number of days. If a person is ill or on a journey, then an equal number of days of fasting should be made up later. For those who fast with difficulty due to
medical reasons, a redemption can be made by feeding a poor person. Voluntary additional charities would be more rewarding. If an individual really understand the principle of fasting, it is better for him to fast.
“Fasting is an act of self discipline. Fasting is done per God’s will. Abstaining from food, avoiding bad thoughts, words and deeds- overall restraining the intellectual, physical and sensual faculties would enable self purification.” Moulavi Jamaludeen Mankada Palayam Imam Thiruvananthapuram
34
November 2012 T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
Visit: http://www.gomart.co.in
Sound Body Fasting for your health
Since ancient times, human beings have fasted as a spiritual practice. Medical researches of the modern age have found that fasting has several health benefits. di-
The ges-
tive system receives a much needed rest with fasting. A major result of fasting is detoxification. Toxins stored are eliminated as the body breaks down the fat reserves. It dries up the accumulated abnormal fluids in the body. Fasting burns energy stored and some muscle loss is experienced. While fasting, there is no potential exposure to bacteria, parasites, viruses, etc., through food. Hence, it gives the body time to heal and restore, and allows the immunity system to strengthen. During fasting body cells are rejuvenated.
Ayurvedic health care system prescribes fasting as an important method of detoxification. Studies have found fasting assists treatment of irritable bowel syndrome. Patients with hypertension-related illnesses belong to the category who benefit from water-only fasting. However, these types of fasting should be only under medical supervision. Recently, studies carried out on laboratory mice have shown that a short period of fasting before chemotherapy makes the drugs work better. Studies of cancer patients who underwent fasting have thrown up promising preliminary evidence. Long-term research is awaited for determining the accurate outcome. In addition to physical benefits, fasting also assists in improving mental clarity. Introducing controlled fasting in our lifestyle would do wonders to our body. The type and duration of fasting should be determined based on each individual’s body constitution.
T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
November 2012
35
CITY SCAN
Vivanta by Taj Welcomes the Holiday Season In the lead up to Christmas and to welcome the Holiday season, a grand cake-mixing ceremony was held at Vivanta by Taj. The event was in the presence of in-house guests and special invitees. Also many staff of the hotel took part in the ceremony. It was a get-together of sorts and the Christmas Spirit was soaring high. Murugan Rajan (General Manager of Vivanta by Taj) said, “Over the years, cake-mixing ceremony has come out of the kitchens and evolved in to a community event. It is a muchawaited happening, as it heralds the beginning of the Holiday season.” Murugan Rajan General Manager
36
November 2012 T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
The centuries’ old ceremony of cakemixing is an event celebrated around the world. The type of Christmas cake varies in different parts of the world. The variety of dry fruits assorted on the table caught the favorable attention of everyone. The assortment
Visit: http://www.gomart.co.in
included almonds, blackcurrants, cashews, cherry, dates, pistachios, raisins, walnuts, etc. Executive Chef of Vivanta by Taj explained the procedure of cake-mixing to the gathering. These ingredients would be mixed together and kept soaked in liquor for about thirty to forty five days. Then it is blended with other essentials to make Christmas cakes.
The gathering participated in the event with much gaiety and gusto. For many, it was the first time to take part in a cake-mixing ceremony. The F&B Manager of Vivanta by Taj, viewed it as an event of togetherness for the guests, special invitees and the staff. He said that ‘proportion’ and ‘period of storage’ has an important part in determining the taste of the final product – the cake. The people involved were donned with gloves, caps and aprons. The event began with those around the table pouring liquor on to the mountain of dry fruits on the table. Once it was soaked in alcohol, the ingredients were crushed and mixed. Powdered
spices were sprinkled on it. When the mixing reached satisfactory levels, it was transferred to steel utensils to be preserved at adequate room temperature.
As per Raju Rajendran, Sales Manager at Vivanta by Taj, “The cake mixing traditionally is a family event in Western countries. However, hotels have made it a ritual and a “front of the house” activity and we are indeed delighted to be the first hotel to signify the onset of the season by showcasing this event. I wish all patrons and our friends, a Merry Christmas and a Happy New year.” The cake-mixing ceremony at ‘Vivanta by Taj’ harbingered the advent of Christmas–New Year season.
T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
November 2012
37
COVER FEATURE
UDS bags World Luxury Hotel Award for the 3rd Consecutive Time Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel & Spa, was awarded the World Luxury Hotel Award for the third consecutive year from 2010 onwards, the Award was received by the CMD Rajashekharan Nair & Director Radha Nair along with our Group Vice President Prasad Manjali at the prestigious ceremony held at Pan Pacific, Kuala Lumpur Malaysia in Oct 2012. Uday Samudra Leisure beach Hotel & Spa is the only complete wellness resort in the International tourist destination, Kovalam. On to the beach, nestled in the palm groves is the luxury resort sought by tourist from India and overseas. UDS is a home away from home where you enjoy every moment to the fullest. It’s an unforgettable experience at UDS which would be remembered forever and one would love to revisit often. The UDS’s philosophy of combining the best elements of nature with the convenience of today’s modern
38
November 2012 T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
Visit: http://www.gomart.co.in
world, through exceptional standards of luxury, elegance and service, together with ISO 9001 - 2000 standards and impressive management tools,
has created a powerful presence in the hospitality sector & The hotel, which features 207 Rooms, 4 Restaurants,3 Fresh Water Swimming pools,
T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
November 2012
39
3 Banquet Halls, Ayur Ashram Ayurveda & Yoga Centre, Ocean SPA, Beauty Studio, Health Club, Dental Clinic is set to become a luxury destination in its own right. Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel & Spa branded as UDS & the group expanded with its new launching Uday Suites, the only four star Airport hotel in Trivandrum, Uday Sky kitchen &Uday Samudra Ayurveda & Yoga Beach Resort, UDS group is growing enormously in Indian Hospitality sector with its upcoming projects, Hotel & Convention Centre with 2000 seating capacity plus 190 rooms, Backwater resort in Allepey at the famous backwaters of Kerala & Ayurveda Hill resort in wagamon near thekkady. UDS group has ventured into restaurant in the United Kingdom under the brand RRK (Rock & Roll Kitchen). Rajashekharan Nair, a man with clear
40
November 2012 T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
vision with over 3 decades of experience in hospitality sector and several accomplished projects to his credit, whose determination has made UDS group a major group of hotels in Kerala. He also runs several business enterprises in Mumbai, including 4 major restaurant bars. His hall mark is his dynamic personality that his thoughts are very innovative and different from usual. Radha Rajashekharan is a popular film actress she has presented many exceptional and memorable characters in numerous movies of the South Indian film industry. To her credit she presented over 200 roles in movies. Their daughter’s Karthika and Thulasi are proving to be grand promises to the Indian film world. They have had great respect for the cinema industry and their mother Radha has been the greatest inspiration to both.
Visit: http://www.gomart.co.in
EVENT SCAN
GKSF All Set to Woo Shoppers Kerala is all poised for a makeover into a to a big shopping mall. The much touted event, the Grand Kerala Shopping festival is set to kick off by December. It’s not only about shopping, it’s about winning attractive prizes too. U.V Jose, the Director of the festival shares the details about the festival in a chat with Pooja Jayan. GKSF 2012 The 6th season of Grand Kerala Shopping festival is in the offing and many new surprises are awaiting people this year. Normally the festival starts from Dec 1st and ends on Jan 15th, but this year the festival will begin by December 15th and end by Jan 31st as per the demand from traders. Previous years, there was a skew towards jewellery and textiles, but this year we are planning to spread across various segments and we are expect-
44
November 2012 T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
Visit: http://www.gomart.co.in
ing a participation of around 10,000 merchants. For facilitating the spread of registration process, we are taking the help of Akshaya centers. A 15-day Global Village will be set up at Bolgatty Island in the line of Dubai shopping festival. International, national and local brands will have pavilions; there will be water sports, helicopter rides and a lot of stuff for entertainment at Bolgatty Island. Despite this there will be thematic trade shows on Ayurveda, handicrafts, handloom, horticulture etc. A painting show will be set up for the first time in GKSF to showcase indigenous talent and it will be spearheaded by Kanayi Kunhiraman. The prizes will also be different this time, gold prizes are kept as such and merchandises will be given as gifts too.
TOURISM AND GRAND KERALA SHOPPING FESTIVAL Kerala is well known as a tourist destination. This year’s initiative is to transform GKSF into an international experience by collaborating shopping with tourism. GKSF takes place at a time when Kerala goes through its peak tourism season as well as Sabarimala season; therefore we expect a lot of people to come to the state. Trade shows, exhibitions, etc., based on different themes of Kerala culture are set up to lure the tourists. Publicity of the festival is done effectively to allure the NRI’s. We have already discussed several plans with hoteliers and tour operators. Special directories targeting tourists will be brought out so that the people will be able to find out what is available at which place
T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
November 2012
45
LOCAL PRODUCTS AND ARTISANS GKSF is a big opportunity to showcase traditional products of Kerala. We have put our best foot forward to help the local artisans. The trade shows, exhibitions, etc., are held to help them showcase their products. We are also buying merchandises from them as gifts for GKSF. We have teamed up with Surabhi, Kudumbasree, Kairali, Handicrafts corporation, etc., to promote local products and handicrafts. KERALA – THE HUB OF AYURVEDA and at what prices and discounts. PARTICIPATION IN GKSF 2012 This year’s participation is going extremely good. With less than a month to go before the start of the festival, registrations for the event are about to exceed last year’s scores. New facilities for merchant establishments like online registration through Akshaya centres as well as attractive early-bird discounts have increased the participation rates. In response to widespread demand from retailers across the state, the deadline for ‘Early Bird’ registrations has been extended to October 31. We have tied up with RAI (Retailers Association of India) so that many big brands will be a part of this festival. They are doing their own promotions to make the event a grand success.
46
November 2012 T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
Kerala is attracting medical tourists, especially for ayurvedic treatments. GKSF will help to promote ayurveda and traditional systems of medicines on a global scale. This year we have set up thematic exhibitions on ayurveda and many other plans have been laid down to entice the tourists. GKSF CAMPAIGNS GKSF aims to transform Kerala into a shopper’s destination. Therefore vigorous campaigns are going on targeting Keralities as well as people outside. We are using all sources for promotion like print, visual, new media, etc. The event has grown as a major shopping carnival since its debut in 2007 but now it has to grow as a brand. So now we are focusing on brand building.
Visit: http://www.gomart.co.in
METRO LAUNCH
Announcing the launch of an Award winning MIRACLE CREAM from CACI CACI International is an award winning company with expertise in the beauty industry that spans well over two decades. As suppliers to over 6000 of the world’s leading beauty salons, health clubs, destination spas and day spas, CACI International is the UK’s largest manufacturer and supplier of non invasive aesthetic treatment systems. Prévage etc. We are the most reasonable in terms of price although we are actually one of the pioneers in the sector.
CACI have a prestigious presence in over 30 countries. CACI’s celebrity clients include many UK ‘A’ Listers and Hollywood’s elite such as Madonna, Jennifer Lopez and Demi Moore. Now for India, CACI are introducing the Amino-Lift Peptide Complex Serum – an amazing anti-ageing cream which targets lines, acts as a wrinkle block and improves skin firmness. It also brightens and improves complexion. In other words it’s known as “facelift in a bottle.” You will notice a remarkable difference after just 28 days of use. It may seem expensive but check out the competition – the anti-ageing ranges from La Prairie and Crème de La Mer, Elizabeth Arden’s
48
November 2012 T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
We are also introducing our Hyaluronic Hydro-Mask. Made with the most advanced medical grade materials used to treat serious skin burns, the CACI Mask has a soothing, hydrating and calming action on the skin that immediately reduces any skin redness, irritation and dehydration. The Mask contains intensive moisturising properties that replenish sun damaged and dehydrated skin. It also has powerful anti-ageing ingredients infused into it. The Mask’s powerful properties also have a softening action on skin tissue that helps to plump out and smooth deep lines and wrinkles. The products are now available at Trivandrum Style Plus and negotiations are on with other premium retail stores in and out of Kerala. Interested stockists and distributors can contact 09387436284 for details.
Visit: http://www.gomart.co.in
CITY MART
Welcome to the world of traditional
elegance and contemporary grace
The new born store- ‘Vedhika’ For designer ethnic wearsaris, salwars, stolles and kidswear, Vedhika is the best choice. It is Kerala’s first designer fashion store. Located at SFS Icon, Sasthamangalam in the heart of the city, Vedhika houses ethnic wear crafted with the heart and the soul. Experience the luxury and grandeur of countless human hours spent perfecting each piece by hand even in today’s world bitten by the speed bug. The idea behind these creations are Anupama S and Maithri Anand, designers par excellence.
50
November 2012 T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
Visit: http://www.gomart.co.in
SHOPPING
For a better vision An optical and pharmacy store, Life care centre optical and pharmaceuticals is functioning at Regional Institute of Ophthalmology (RIO), Near General Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram. The store is run by HLL Life care, in collaboration with the Kerala Government. The new optical and pharmacy store would be the first of its kind in an institution of government undertaking. This initiative strives to bring about a whole new realm of accessible, affordable ophthalmic services to every citizen. The showroom was inaugurated in September. The store ensures the availability of various lens required post-treatment and medicines for the
52
November 2012 T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
patients. The showroom embraces the newest technologies available in frames and lenses which gives the very best vision you deserve. The ophthalmic products are sold at affordable prices, with a rebate between 20 and 60 per cent compared to the open-market rates. This shop carries top quality frames and lenses at a variety of price points. The price ranges from Rs. 169 to Rs. 6800. If you are looking for International brands, then a wide array of products are available in the showroom. New showrooms are set to begin at Vatakara and Pathanamthitta. The showroom is open from 7am to 6pm.
Visit: http://www.gomart.co.in
METRO BEAUTY
Love Your Hair and Respect it Taking care of your tresses is no mean feat be it long or short. However the long and short of it is to treat your hair with care and respect. This applies to the method of handling and as well as in your choice of hair care products. Let us begin with the basics of how to wash, dry and comb your hair.. Always remember shampoo is used for cleansing and conditioner for conditioning the hair. Shampooing removes dirt as well as natural oils. Conditioner is used to replenish these lost oils. Wash your hair according to need. Oily hair can be shampooed everyday but conditioned once in a week or so. You can also opt to use a spray conditioner. Dry hair can be washed once in two days or three and it can be conditioned and need be shampooed once in a week. Normal hair can be shampooed and conditioned on a daily basis. Always use professional products for good results. After washing squeeze the water out of the hair but do not twist and this may cause breakage. Don’t rub the hair with the towel as the friction causes split ends and frizzy dryness. Wrap it in a towel to absorb excess
54
November 2012 T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M
mart
water. Gently comb out the hair with a wide tooth comb.Let it air dry for dry and frizzy hair. For fine hair you can use a hair dryer on warm heat. Never yank your fingers through tangles if any or use the towel and rub hair between your hands. This will damage the hair. Always dry your hair before you tie it up or you will be subject to dandruff and fungal attacks. A great number of frizzy heads are due to poor handling of dry and curly hair. Like all other things learn to take proper care of your hair and in the long run you will be rewarded with shiny, conditioned silken locks.
Diana Keraladas Samanga Beauty parlour ChalakuzhiRoad (9387436284
Visit: http://www.gomart.co.in