Metro Mart September 2013 by Metro MEDIA

METRO mart Volume 3

Issue 3 September 2013

`40

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

Harvesting the Joy of

Onam Season

SHOPPING DINING HOLIDAY ART RECIPE EVENT

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Kerala Handloom

Industry Rejuvenated

September 2013

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September 2013

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

Malayalees across the globe are ready to welcome their dearest Maharaja Mahabali during Onam. The cityites are already on a festive fever. Is Onam just a celebration of around 15-20 days which comes in every year? Are we celebrating Onam in a traditional way or has it become an instant package consisting of Facebook, television and just a fastfood dining? Does our current generation know why Onam is celebrated and who is Mahabali? We are told Asuras (Demons) are the face of Evil; how come the entire people of Kerala worship an Asura ruler and keep him in their hearts their entire life?

Foreword

Hi Readers,

Today, as a citizen we look for Mahabali in each and every elected representatives of our society. How many are able to come close to his goodness? Would any of them win the hearts of people? Bringing that goodness within oneself is so difficult that we choose the easy way of being a Deva â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and manipulate people with promises! Every festival has a message and moral to convey. How much we understand it makes the difference. Writing this editorial, I am being self educated about Onam, Mahabali and not to become a Deva to manipulate people around us.

Hari Shanker Manag8ing Editor

No one is born evil or good by birth, even if it is Deva or Asura. It is their deeds in life that identify them with good or bad. Mahabali is always an idol for any ruler to follow. There was no theft, no cheating. There was good governance, prosperity, good times, etc., which we always dream for. In his rule, people were so happy and contented that the mighty Devas were afraid of losing their credibility of being the ambassadors of goodness. (Was Devas with their identity of being good just manipulating?). Lord Maha Vishnu intervened as Vamana and sent Mahabali below the earth, giving him a boon of visiting his people once every year, which we celebrate as Onam, the tale which each Malayali hear from his/her childhood.

I wish you and each and every one in your family a Happy and Prosperous Onam. Do give your feedback to make METRO better. www.metromartdaily.com

September 2013

Volume 3 Issue 3 September 2013 Annual Subscription `400

Cover Feature 8

Harvesting The Joy Of Onam Season

Vibrant New Onam Collection at Czarina

Kerala handloom industry Rejuvenated

“Trivandrum Division - Surging forward with infrastructure development and increased safety and security”

Facelift for Kunnil Margin Free Hypemarket

Make way for the flavors from Paradise

Mobile Phone use by Children - Boon or Bane ?

Managing Editor Hari Shanker hari@martinfotech.in CEO & Managing Director Siji Nair sijicn@gmail.com Sub Editor

V Viswanath

Editorial Assistant

Pooja Jayan Gokul Prasannan

Creative Assistant

Sayan Chaudhuri Roopesh Shekhar

GM Sales

Sibu Nair

GM Administration

Binoy Krishna

Corporate Office:-

3030

Holiday

India could’ve done without Modern Art

Recipe

Kerala Tourism Launches New Gesture Controlled Website

Metro Update

The Last Leaf

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No:217, 3B Main, OMBR Layout Bangalore – 560 043 Tel: +919038000711 Email: info@martinfotech.in

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 695003 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

September 2013

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September 2013

COVER FEATURE

Harvesting the Joy of Onam Season

V Viswanath

September 2013

The joy and enthusiasm associated with Kerala’s Onam season has begun. Onam – a celebration across Kerala irrespective of caste, creed and religion. Being celebrated as a harvest festival, it is a reminder of Kerala’s

agrarian past and falls in Chingam - the first month of Malayalam calendar. It is also observed as the annual visit of King Mahabali. Setting of Athapookalam or floral carpet is a highlight of the celebration. These are made with

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different kinds of flowers in the front courtyard of households. The celebrations start on Atham day and culminate on Thiruvonam day – 10 days of grand festivities. Both children and elders alike look forward for this season. They celebrate by purchasing new clothes, feasting on traditional cuisine and take part in cultural activities. The state witnesses a huge inflow of domestic and foreign tourists during this month. The government promotes Onam in a big way by organizing various cultural events during the season. Both public and private sector employers provide salary advances, festival bonus or allowance to their employees. The season

witnesses huge consumer activities across the state and provides a spurt in sales. Textile shops, consumer durable marketers, restaurants, community organizations, etc., have all chalked out plans to welcome the festival season in their own respective ways. A number of hotels, restaurants, and caterers have announced special prices and are featuring Onam Sadya as a highlight of their menu. Retail outlets have already put up various festival offers and

discounts to draw customers. Exhibitions and trade fairs are set up for holiday makers. Residential associations, malls, educational institutions and others conduct competition for designing Athapookalams. Programmes such as Kaikottikali, Pulikali are held by various organizations. The preparation for the festival season is on full swing. All over the state, there is a frenzy of activities going on to greet this grand festival.

Snehasparsham 2013-CLIFF HOUSE FETE Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, distributed ‘onakkodi’ and had ‘onasadya’ with differently-abled children at Cliff House. The programme, ‘Snehasparwww.metromartdaily.com

sham 2013’, was organised by the Parents’ Association of Disabled Students and NIMS Medicity. Sixty children were present at the function.

Chandy’s wife Mariamma Oommen, Labour Minister Shibu Baby John and Health Minister V S Sivakumar, Faizal Khan Managing Director NIMS Medicity also took part. September 2013

COVER FEATURE

Multifarious programmes during Onam Week Celebrations The State Tourism Department’s Onam Week celebrations would begin on September 14 evening at the Central Stadium. Chief Minister Oommen Chandy would inaugurate the celebrations and actor Sreedevi would be the chief guest. The celebrations are scheduled until September 20th. The keynote address is to be delivered by opposition leader V.S. Achuthanandan. The event would be presided over by Tourism Minister A.P. Anil Kumar. “The inaugural function will be followed by ‘Ilanjithara Pandimelam’ by a 101-member group led by Peruvanam Kuttan Marar. A special programme based on ‘Amma Malayalam Sreshta Malayalam’ and a mega show would follow,” Minister Anil Kumar said. The District Tourism Promotion Councils would conduct arts and cultural events in all the districts during this period.

September 2013

In Thiruvananthapuram district, there would be events organised by the District Tourism Promotion Council at places such as Varkala, Chirayinkeezh, Shanghumugham, Aruvikkara, Neyyar Dam and Kovalam. For the first time there will be kite flying competition at Shanghumugham. There will a road show by ‘Avial’ band at Manaveeyam Road on the day of ‘Uthradom’, celebrations committee general convener

Palode Ravi MLA said. In the capital city, the events will be spread out across 27 venues. From this year onwards, Vyloppili Samskrithi Bhavan will be one of the main venues. Around 5,000 artistes would be part of the week“The inaugural function will be followed by ‘Ilanjithara Pandimelam’ by a 101-member group led by Peruvanam Kuttan Marar. A special programme based on ‘Amma Malayalam Sreshta Malayalam’

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September 2013

and a mega show would follow,” Minister Anil Kumar said. The District Tourism Promotion Councils would conduct arts and cultural events in all the districts during this period. In Thiruvananthapuram district, there would be events organised by the District Tourism Promotion Council at places such as Varkala, Chirayinkeezh, Shanghumugham, Aruvikkara, Neyyar Dam and Kovalam. For the first time there will be kite flying competition at Shanghumugham. There will a road show by ‘Avial’ band at Manaveeyam

O T Prakash Secretary, District Tourism Promotion Council Across Thiruvananthapuram district, DTPC will be organizing Onam celebration in six places. The main venue would be Shanghumugham. Here,

September 2013

Road on the day of ‘Uthradom’, celebrations committee general convener Palode Ravi MLA said. In the capital city, the events will be spread out across 27 venues. From this year onwards, Vyloppili Samskrithi Bhavan will be one of the main venues. Around 5,000 artistes would be part of the weeklong celebrations.

there would be an e-cultural procession from Kowdiar to East Fort in the evening. Over 75 floats would line up in the procession. Around Rs. 2.20 crores would be spent for the celebrations.

“Rs. 30 lakhs each would be given to Kozhikode and Ernakulam DTPCs. Rs. 13 lakhs would be allotted for Thiruvananthapuram On September 13, a procla- and for other districts the mation rally organised by amount has been increased the Kerala Sports Council from Rs. 2.5 lakhs to Rs. 3 would reach Kanakaklakhs,” the Minister said. kunnu Palace in the He released the brochure of evening and Minister for Cultural Affairs K C Joseph the Onam celebrations by handing it over to Mayor K. would hoist the ‘Onam Chandrika. flag’. On September 20, as in last year, we have a carnival named ‘Kadalolam Onam.’ Exhibition, amusement ride, auto expo to introduce new vehicles, etc. would be part of the carnival. Food fest including dishes from Malabar and Central Kerala, and a payasa mela would be held. This entertaining event at Shanghumugham is from Sept 13th to 22nd. From Sept 14th onwards, between 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. various game shows such as tug of war, musical chairs, kite flying, lemon in spoon, etc., are planned.

These will be held with the participation of visiting public. Two cultural programs (including classical and modern) will be held between 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. The centers at Varkala, Chirayinkeezhu, Neyyar Dam, and Kovalam would have Onam celebration for three days from Sept 16th - the day of Thiruvonam. In Aruvikkara, the celebrations would be for five days starting Sept 15th to 19th. Regional and local artists would be involved in presenting cultural programs.

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September 2013

SHOPPING MART

Vibrant New Onam Collection at Czarina Czarina celebrates the arrival of the festive Onam season with an exquisite new collection of sarees. This year’s collection includes a vibrant selection of sarees handpicked and sourced from across India. As a result, the Onam collection at Czarina has a range and variety that is unmatched. Yet another advantage of adding to your saree collection from Trivandrum’s leading boutique is the undisputed fact that the Czarina label today stands for quality and exclusivity. Colours, textures, weaves, drapes – the Czarina Onam collection is very eclectic indeed. The traditional and the modern come together in true symphony.

September 2013

Old favourites like the Maheswari, Kota, Uppada, Tussar and Brocade with their eternally elegant designs are available in eye catching colours. For those who like a contemporary touch, the stunning designer sarees can add the ‘wow’ factor to your wardrobe. Given the Onam theme, the highlight of the collection is the classically graceful Kerala designer saree. The traditional Kerala sarees have been given a new twist with the addition of colourful designs like block print, figure print and floral motifs. The result is sheer magic! In order to give you the complete look on Onam

day, Czarina has also introduced a new range of readymade blouses and blouse materials. For those who prefer a trendy Indian look, the boutique also has a wide array of salwar kameez sets that will add glamour to your Onam celebrations. To make shopping more convenient for customers, the showroom will be open on all Sundays until Onam, including September 1, 8 and 15. The showroom is located at the Catholic Centre, Near General Hospital jn, Trivandrum. To know more, log on to our Facebook page- Czarina-The designer wear boutique or contact 9387721322.

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September 2013

FEATURE ARTICLE

Kerala Handloom Industry Rejuvenated Department of Handloom and Textiles in Kerala under Industries and Commerce department of Kerala implements financial and welfare schemes to weavers of Kerala. The Handlooms & Textiles Directorate is evolving policies and schemes aimed at developing the harmonious growth of handlooms, power looms and textile sector. Various schemes are evolved for the welfare of weavers and workers involved in the above industries. The ‘Kerala kasavu sarees’ are praised by women allover India for their fineness of count and natural

September 2013

colours, texture and gold borders. Kerala is also known for its unbleached cotton handloom crepe

popularly known as ‘kora’ cloth. This has entered the foreign market and occupies a proud place in the

METRO mart M TTHHIIRRUUVVAANNAANNTTHHAAPPUURRAAM

garment industry. The secret of furnishing fabrics from Malabar is the excellent structure and texture of the cloth, unique colour combination, wide width (98”120”) and craftsmanship. When we look back to the history of Kerala, it can be seen that in 1498 Vasco da Gama, the Portuguese navigator visited Calicut in Malabar. So it is well known that the 15th century excellent quality handloom cloth was exported to Asian and European countries. Balaramapuram, in Thiruvananthapuram district is the most historically important place for handloom fabrics. The weavers belonging to Saliyas migrated from Nagarcoil and

Tirunelveli in Tamilnadu during the time of Balarama Varma 250 years ago. Here they produced super fine Mundum Neriyathum; for the royal family. Still they are in existence and carry an important part of the total production. The technique of producing the superfine fabric spread from them to the local weavers in Balaramapuram and surrounding places. Initially they were producing ‘Mundu’ for men with 0.4cm of width of ‘kara’ (cross border) with black garn. Around 100 years ago, the Jari from Surat was brought to Balaramapuram and ‘Kasavu Saree’ production was started. The capital city has its own historical importance. And in the map of handloom also it has an important

place. There are 349 societies and 44700 weavers are working with their looms. The main products of the district are fine cotton textures, durries with special design. Balaramapuram is very famous for its fine grey sarees with kasavu (Jari). The other products here are set-mundu, ‘Mundum Neriyathum’ (Traditional dress for Malayali ladies), Mundu (dhothi for men), Earezha thorthu (bathing towel), Melmundu, etc. Other places where handloom fabricators are concentrated are Parassala the southern most part of Kerala where the weavers are involved in weaving of sarees and dhotis. Kulathur and Chirayinkeezhu are some of the other places where handloom industries are found.

“Sarees from Balaramapuram, Kuthampully and Kasaragod, as well as the Chendamangalam Mundu (dhoti) have received the coveted Geographical Indication (GI) registration. The Tag is issued to products with uniqueness produced in a certain geographical region. The registration also protects the goods from being emulated. These handloom products vary according to their place of origin, the skill of weavers, the raw materials and the type of loom used. Market-driven and Eco-friendly, Kerala’s handloom products carry the zero child labour tag as well.”

Sam C Itticheria Director of Handloom & Textiles

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September 2013

ON FACE

“Trivandrum Division - Surging forward with infrastructure development and increased safety and security” The capital of the erstwhile princely State of Travancore, Trivandrum had its first railway line when the Madras-Quilon line was extended. Chalai – the current shopping bazaar was the place this line terminated. Chalai was a trading centre even then. This line was opened in 1918. The current Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station was built in 1931. The three state railways of ‘the Madras and Southern Mahratta Railway’, ‘the South Indian Railway Company’, and ‘the Mysore State Railway’ were merged to create the Southern Railway zone of Indian Railways. The Broad Gauge converted railway line between Ernakulam and Trivandrum was inaugurated in 1976. Trivandrum division of the Southern Railways was created in 1979. Trivandrum Railway Division currently operates 80 express trains and 60 passenger trains daily carrying about 2.6 lakh commuters daily. Rajesh Agarwal, Divisional Railway Manager, Thiruvananthapuram speaks to Metro Mart on various aspects of Thiruvananthapuram Division.

September 2013

METRO mart TTHHI IRRUUVVAANNAANNTTHHAAPPUURRAAMM

Could you please tell us regarding passenger and freight movement in Trivandrum railway division? As you are aware, railways is the lifeline of Kerala from its northern end to the southern end, as it is a very north-south line. Kerala has also got that same north-south topographic alignment. Most of its population is very close to the coast. The line is also passing through that. It is also serving the central districts with Kottayam close to the MC Road. So the development of the railway line and the services provided with that railway line are ideal for the State. Presently the line is being utilized almost entirely as a passenger service. This is very important and we are hoping to provide more and more facilities on its passenger front. We have also been in discussion with the State government to utilize this line also for movement of containers, parcels, freight, food grains, all kinds of goods activities. Presently, there is near-zero utilization of this line for this. The entire movement is through trucks, tankers, lorries and trailers, which is completely destroying the National Highway www.metromartdaily.com

completely destroying the environment and it is putting excessive strain on the infrastructure. It is also affecting the road safety and the lives of the people. To that extent, it is better if we can utilize the railway line for providing whatever freight services required for the State. The operation is on two fronts â&#x20AC;&#x201C; one is the more important passenger services and then also we want to begin with the operation of freight service. In freight, I think it will also be a very vital importance to the State that they can invigorate the Port at Cochin, which is presently nearly not utilized. We want the Vallarpadom, which was opened more than two years ago, to start its operations in full swing. As of now, greater than one-third of the project has been implemented and that is also being utilized to less than one-third of its capacity. The movement by rail is nearly zero. Secondly, at Wellington Island we have the wharfs on both the Mattanchery side and the Ernakulam side which we have commissioned for freight movement and we can have bulk cargo coming in to Cochin and moving to various parts

of the country. Certainly, the freight transportation activities can be boosted by utilization of the railway lines. Over the years a number of infrastructure development activities have been taken up by the railways. Could you tell us on some of these initiatives? As far as passenger traffic is concerned, over the last two years, we have had to go through a major upgradation. The southern portion of the Trivandrum area was part of Travancore Maharajah Railway, which after conversion to Broad Gauge was made the southern part of Trivandrum. Even before that, it remained like the branch line of Madurai. Similarly, the northern part was the Kochi Maharajah Railway which remained the branch line of the Palghat Division. So considering this legacy, there is a large number of shortcomings in the infrastructure for which we have to undertake a variety of measures to bring about. Not only the specific improvement in infrastructure, but also with the planning and execution of work in a systematic September 2013

manner we can run it as a Main Line Broad Gauge railway, as a frontline division covering the southern area of the entire Indian Railways - directly towards the northern states, not only Tamilnadu, but also Karnataka, Andhra, Goa, Maharastra, and further. This is the major thrust. Now, the results are there to tell â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the speeds of the section have started to improve. More than 34 trains were speeded up in the first year. Further 90 trains have been speeded up. Now again, we are doing the modeling for speeding up the trains further. We have also put forward to the State government that with further improvements in infrastructure we can propose suburban

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corridors to serve Kerala to enable commuter movement from one urban centre to another. Commuter corridor has to be placed in the offing, the earlier the better. Preliminary feasibility has been established and it is being pursued. At the same time, we have embarked on a number of offline improvements. For example, ticketing and reservation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; which were earlier restricted only to railway stations at one end of Kerala â&#x20AC;&#x201C; have now been proliferated to all the deepest corners of all the districts of Kerala including the deep corners of Pathanamthitta and Idukki districts. We have been able to establish more than 20 centers across the State, which has nearly

doubled our reservation capacity. Also we have set up ticketing centers through JTBS in more than 20 locations. This again proliferated the requirement. We can of course proliferate it further, because now the mechanism has been established and with the help of more partnerships and more proactive activities this can be enhanced further. So that is another major improvement. Simultaneously another part of concern in Kerala was the level crossings. There are almost 400 level crossings north to south. It is a very high density of level crossings. These are okay when you are running a branch line railway where there are few trains. But now you are running

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a main line railway with high-speed trains and trains required at frequent intervals including the possibility of a future suburban corridor. In that case, naturally, you need to rationalize the level crossings. Earlier, we had the road over bridges. For the first time, we have proposed the underbridge. More than 50 subways have been planned across the state, which will serve as an immediate effective fast way. We have constructed almost entirely at railway cost, so that the movement is not affected. The purpose of the level crossing is better served, because then it is not closed to road traffic when the trains are passing. When this has been done, we will become the first state in the country to have 100% manning of level crossings. Relative target is 2015, more than two years ahead of schedule Kerala becomes one of the first State to have zero unmanned level crossings. The Vizhinjam Port is being developed by the government and when connectivity for the railway is needed it will be organized. What are the measures taken up for the safety www.metromartdaily.com www.metromartdaily.com

and security aspect of railways? Safety precautions and awareness creation among public is basically in three areas. One is our railway stations, the second is on trains and the third is level crossings. We have to tackle all the three areas separately. We have our station improvement groups and station committees where we have to ensure the safety at the stations. For example, we have to ensure that we can provide proper trolley paths, foot overbridges, platforms, announcement systems, and crossings where the passenger is able to cross over. To some extent, we have to ensure that there is no getting on the train from the offside; they must get on from the platform side even if it involves a little extra time. We have to also ensure that they remain behind the white line. For the first time in Kerala, we have sort sanction for escalators to facilitate the movement on the foot overbridges and within a short time, we have sanctioned for more than 30 escalators which are going to be installed

starting immediate commissioning of an escalator at Ernakulam. Shortly thereafter another two or three more will be commissioned. Board has been written to for another 25 escalators to be supplied immediately, because our works for that installation are in an advanced stage. Similarly, we also have to do it on the trains. Essentially security has to be intact. We have a very elaborate plan for security on the trains, especially related to women and physically and mentally challenged passengers, as well as the weak and the children. It includes provision of necessary help lines and necessary backup facilities to give them the needed safety and security. Lastly, at the level crossing gates we have to organize a series of programs which we are doing not only ourselves but also in coordination with the State government through the motor vehicles department, through the NATPAC and through other such agencies. Dissemination of information including street plays and rallies are done with public representatives. September September 2013 2013

We did a cycle rally all the way from Trivandrum to Ernakulam to create awareness across all the gates both via Kottayam and Alleppey. They went in one direction and came back through the other direction. So we have a series of programs. In all these areas, we naturally seek the proactive support and understanding of State government, all the stakeholders, concerned authorities and public at large for working with us. Could you tell us the current status of the Kochu Veli terminus and Nemom? The Kochu Veli terminal project was lying in limbo for more than 10 years. Last year, we had to undertake a series of coordinated measures to the construction department, to the headquarters,

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to the railway board and also internally through our various departments to actually get this project started. So we commissioned it last year. Now everyday two to three days are coming to Kochu Veli. Pit line, maintenance pit line, and platforms have been commissioned. Station has already been upgraded to a B class station and within one year we have planned to commission it fully. After Kochu Veli is completed perhaps we can also take up Nemom depending on the requirement at that point of time. Nemom has geographical constraints. For the time being we have to concentrate on Kochu Veli. The foot overbridge on the new platform side is getting commissioned in a monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time. We need to take up

the foot overbridge on the opposite end, where platform No. 2 did not exist. But now we have been able to complete it through our innovative waste utilization method. It is perhaps the first time in the country. It is done as per international guidelines and the guidelines of the Government of India for solid waste management. The completion of the platform is to be done by the Suchitwa Mission of the Kerala State Government. We are hoping that they complete that quickly, after which we can also take up the work for the foot overbridge at that end. We also have a plan to link these two foot overbridges across both sides. So that work will also be taken up.

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September 2013

HYPER MART HYPERMARKET

Facelift for Kunnil Margin Free Hypermarket

A R Nazimuddin Kunnil Margin free Managing Director Kunnil Margin Free market revamped its hoard located at Medical College

September 2013

to cater better to the needs of customers. Kunnil Margin Free Hypermarket is a complete shopping destination located at Bye pass, near to Infosys which consists of variety of options under just one roof. This hypermarket& margin free market carries an enormous range of products like grocery, fruits & vegetables, general merchandise, with national and international brands. The hypermarket offers an ultra-modern shopping ambience by integrating a plethora of products with friendly staff at hand to provide

assistance, electronic billing facilities, Credit and Debit card payments etc. Good range and pricing at Kunnil Margin Free Hypermarkets is a strong pull for any shopper. Consumers want the best, at the best prices, and are willing to explore options. Therefore, the store offers a wider range and assortment of merchandise now in various categories, an extensive fish and meat counter, home accessories, a bakery counter offering puffs, cutlets, sandwiches, cakes, and so on to suit the

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daily needs of a modern customer. The consumers can also take advantage of MFREEM Consumer Card, which entitle them for additional discounts for the products they buy from the shop. The margin free market offers discount from 4% to 40% .The shop also offer attractive discounts and gift schemes for consumers during special occasions. Nowadays customers do not prefer travelling far to make their purchases but would prefer their retailers

to be located in prominent/ strategic locations within the city limits. Therefore, one can find that Kunnil Margin Free Hypermarkets and Margin free market are located in the core locations of the city, Medical college and Kulathoor Bye Pass road. A complete Medical store is placed inside Kunnil Margin Free Hypermarket and is a speciality of it. The management has decided to expand it’s horizon by expanding it’s business to Gold and Jewels.The new branded Kunnil Gold Park

will be opening soon. The success of Kunnil Margin Free Hypermarket is really as a result of the perceived value they provide. The store has everything - from a safety pin to household articles to grocery to exotic vegetables and fruits. So visit Kunnil Margin Free Hypermarket , pull out a basket, pick out packets of your choice, try out wide variety of products and international ranges, and still obtain the best price deals.

Sree Padmanabha turns duplex with Devipriya Moviegoers can rejoice as one more theatre opened its doors in the city. Devipriya, the second screen at Sree Padmanabha with all multiplex facilities, was inaugurated by mayor K Chandrika. The 197-seat theatre start functioning and the first film to be screened is ‘Sringaravelan’ starring Dileep in the lead. Devipriya is a portion of the reserved class below the Sree Padmanbha balcony. “The concept of big cinemas in slowly disappearing across the globe. An enlarged home theatre experience with superior comfort level is what www.metromartdaily.com

people expect nowadays. Devipriya, equipped with state-of-the-art sound and picture technologies, will give an enhanced moviewatching experience,” says Girish Chandran, theatre owner. The highlights of Devipriya include Dolby 7.1 surround sound system, JBL speakers, JBL amplifiers, Barco digital projector, multiplex comfort seating, LED lighting and a screen size with 13 feet width and 14 feet height. Like Sree Padmanabha, Devipriya will also have the laser show. Another specialty of Devipriya is the fabric interiors. “Normally the-

atres have plaster of Paris interiors. Fabric interiors increase the theatre’s visual appeal and comfort levels,” he adds. With LED lighting and A/C system Devipriya will offer the best movie going experience to the viewers. Sree Padmanbha is the first theatre in the city that was upgraded to multiplex standards and it’s also one of the few theatres in the state that was selected as platinum grade for best projection, sound system, seating and maintenance. With Devipriya, total number of theatres in the city has been increased to 19. September 2013

METRO DINING

Make way for the flavors from Paradise KASHUR KHYON at THE LEELA Kovalam Set on the cliff side, the culinary destinations at The Leela Kovalam offers the guests to experience world class dining. The Terrace is the 24-hour restaurant at the lobby level with Indian, Chinese, continental and other cuisines. A range of international dishes is made available here. The Skybar with the provision for cock-

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tails, refreshments and light snacks is located a level below the main pool deck area, in front of the gymnasium. Seated by the Arabian Sea is The Tides, where you can get panasian, seafood and tandoori specialties. Exclusive multi-cuisinecan be had at The Cafe at the Club - next to the club pool, which is open round the clock. Overlooking the main

lobby, seated beside the main pool is The Bar, which caters cocktails, refreshments and light snacks. While dining at The Leela Kovalam one should not miss local Kerala specialties and fish straight from the sea below you. The diners at The Leela Kovalam have the chance to experience innovative, contemporary and

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

traditional specialties in multi-cuisines. Kashmiri Food Festival is being held at The Terrace Restaurant in The Leela Kovalam from August 24 to September 4, 2013. Over the years, Kashmiri food has evolved. However, the meat dishes continue to have traditional character. Kashmiri cuisine or Kashur khyon has mutton as the most notable ingredient with over 30 varieties. Wazwan â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the multi-course meal in Kashmiri cuisine demands a lot of preparation. Almost all the dishes www.metromartdaily.com

are lamb, chicken and fishbased and require a significant amount of time and effort to make. The superb preparation of Wazwan is a culinary art. The Kashmiri food fest allows you to experience the best of Royal Kashmiri Dawat with its northern Indian, Persian, Turkish and central Asian flavours. Rogan Josh (lamb cooked in spicy red gravy), Yakhni (lamb shanks cooked in curd based gravy), Rista (pounded lamb meatballs in spicy red gravy), Tabakh

Maaz (fried rack of lamb), Syoon Olav (meat and potatoes cooked in spicy gravy), Syoon Pulaav (meat pulao) and other dishes are made available at this fest. Kahwa (sweet green tea with cardamom and almonds) or Sheer Chai (salty pink tea with almonds) taken with baked breads like Kulcha and Katlam can be had as a dessert. The aromatic flavor of Kashmiri food is quite enticing. A visit to the Kashmiri Food Fest at The Leela Kovalam means celebrating a culinary journey over the centuries. September 2013

TECH MART

Mobile Phone use by Children- Boon or Bane? The past decade witnessed a huge increase in children who use mobiles. Mobile phones are convenient communication tools that a child finds easy to operate. There is a wide variety of free and paid mobile applications available for the children. Educational apps boost the knowledge of the children. Gaming apps and tools engage the children and entertain them. While mobile phones provide various benefits, the unique risks involved with it put the parents in a dilemma â&#x20AC;&#x201C; whether to allow their children to use mobile phones or not. In many cases, much before the parents have complete knowledge of their mobile phones, the children master their usage. Parents find the safety features alluring when they provide mobile phones to the children. Location-based features like GPS enable parents to keep track of their children. The accessibility quotient is a valuable factor, which gives the parents great peace of mind. The view is that in case of an emergency, contacting each other would be easier. This technological intervention also has the potential to create a negative effect on the children.

September 2013

Some games are found to be inappropriate for young children and teenagers. Contents such as gambling, sexual content, and some networking sites are adult oriented. Due to lack of knowledge, it is difficult for the parents to protect

V. Viswanath

their childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exposure from these contents. The children could get their hands on illegal contents like child pornography through internet in their mobile phones. The experimenting nature of children and adolescents often

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

poses a major risk. They might provide personal details to strangers and chat with them. At a later stage, this could leave the children or adolescents feel overexposed or humiliated. Cheating in school with mobile phones is a developing problem faced by educational institutions. It is also seen that extensive use of mobile phones results in children losing attention to studies. Another potential threat

N H Ganesh

“Nowadays, kids are seen moving from TV cartoons to mobile games. Parents have to decide on the necessity of providing mobile phones to their children. I feel it will vary from case to case. However, if they give their children cell phones (for safety purposes or for other facilities), they should educate children on the proper usage and monitor constantly.” www.metromartdaily.com

with mobile phone technology is cell phone radiation. It is viewed by some research groups that the radiation from cell phones affects the children much more than the adults. This has prompted various governments to recommend limiting usage of mobile phones by children. The lack of long-term studies in this area is of great concern. Mobile operators have put in place various national codes that would assist in safeguarding mobile phone usage by children. They have developed various self regulatory codes by which commercial contents are classified and access control is maintained for adult content, illegal content, etc. Some operators go a step further and provide guidelines to parents on using networking and location-enabled services. They also advise guardians or parents on latest technologies and its usage. For appropriate development of the future generation, the mobile operators, parents and educators should work in tandem. Effective regulations should be established to reduce or stop children’s exposure to adult-oriented content. Operators could

identify ways to curtail inappropriate content from reaching youngsters. Campaigns should be initiated by mobile operators to create awarenessfor parents and children. The efficacy of jamming or banning mobile phones in educational institutions should be debated. Parents should teach their children on self-regulation and guide them towards appropriate/ safe use of mobile phones. The problems created by using illegal content and the possibility of developing unhealthy relationships should be imparted to the children. The children should be taught not to give out personal information over the net. It is of utmost importance that parents should educate themselves about mobile phones, so that they are able to keep a watch on their children’s mobile usage. Cell phone radiation could be minimized with keeping phone calls short and using messaging instead of talking. The pros and cons of mobile phone usage by children are extensively debatable. The parents and children themselves are responsible on how it turns out – Boon or Bane. September 2013

HOLIDAY MART

“Ambience, cuisine, hygiene, safety and onboard activities - Hallmarks of Vihaara” Vihaara Houseboats Managing Director M Prateesh talks to Gokul Prasannan of MetroMart on his journey in the field of hospitality. To begin with, tell us about your family Basically we hail from central Travancore but, I was brought up in Cochin, the Queen of Arabian Sea. Later we moved to the capital city Trivandrum as my father was with KTDC. My mom is a housewife. My wife is a banker and our daughter Niranjana is 2 ½ yrs old. My younger brother Praveen too is into

September 2013

inbound and outbound tour business.

travel & tourism etc, I worked with hotels, tour companies and also with What made you enter into some of the very promithe field of hospitality? nent companies in Techno Park. It was here that the I breathed hospitality and ‘business bug’ bit me and tourism through out my the idea of starting a busilife. As I mentioned earlier ness had been breeding my father was with KTDC for years. With ample feasiand right from childhood I bility study, research etc I had chances to see and get have started our parent used to beautiful locales, company ‘J P Hospitality cuisine etc. After my stud- Ventures’ along with my ies in hotel management, partner turned old buddy

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

Mr Jijo, and launched Premium Houseboat operations under the brand Vihaara Houseboats in the backwaters of Ashtamudi, Kollam. My mother and father had given full support in this endeavour. But why did you choose Kollam as the destination? Well, for me Kollam is a gem. It’s a pristine market. I do see a rustic charm in Kollam when I look through the eyes of a traveller. Bustling narrow streets, the central clock tower, fishing harbours and of course the backwaters and narrow canals will take you back in a www.metromartdaily.com

time warp. Kollam has so much to offer for a tourist. Ashtamudi backwaters, Thenmala-Palaruvi trails, Munroe Island and many more tourist attractions await discerning travellers. Moreover, with the strategic position of this district as next to the state capital, Kollam can offer even more to tourists, but only with the kind consideration and help from the authorities. Can you please explain further more on this? Sure, actually I can go on and on. But I will restrict myself with some very important points.

For e.g.: the backwaters of Ashtamudi- Of course she is pristine but many parts, especially the areas in contact with the most of human population and interaction like the area near the KSRTC bus stand and boat jetty are highly polluted. It’s from here the guest’s board houseboats and other boats to explore the beauty of the backwaters. One can see litter, plastic and the presence of the government slaughter house near the bus stand is the biggest challenge. While travelling abroad I have seen how well other countries aesthetically keep their water bodies safe and you September 2013

tend to compare with your own. It’s sad. The feeling of conservation and the thought that ‘backwaters are your backyard garbage bin’ has to be totally eradicated and I strongly feel that we can only take this slowly but steadily through schools, colleges, tourism & eco clubs etc. Entrepreneurs in this field, hotels, resorts etc should come forward for this drive. Also we should make use of media for this campaign. I think the ‘Responsible Tourism’ initiative by Department of Tourism can do a lot on this and we will all be happy to take part in our own way. After all backwaters are not only for Tourism and Houseboat cruises. We need to keep them all very safe and clean for the generations to come. What are the USP’s of

September 2013

Vihaara House boats? In fact there are many, right from the ambience to the onboard activities and cuisine. We have given our utmost importance to hygiene and safety of our guests. For e.g.: the life jackets are imported. Likewise, a lot of tour programmes like village cycle tours, canoe rides to fishing sports, onboard cuisine classes etc will be well appreciated. We have state of the art in room amenities and comforts. After monsoon we will start the cruises from Kollam to Aleppey and then to Kumarakom which is a must see backwater stretch. We have the operational capability to cruise these routes. How about some grilled jumbo prawns or hot fish pollichathu on a rainy day like this? We do have some gastronomic delights.

How do you rate the present market scenario? Has the global recession scarred the business? In what all ways do you anticipate government assistance? Well, I would say yes, the global business trends wouldn’t leave us alone. The market will have its ups and downs. The tourism and hospitality sector is vulnerable in this way. There are pay cuts and similar measures taken all over the world by employers. One will only suddenly think of keeping off the vacation travel and saving this budget for something more important. It’s here the government can play crucial role in attracting domestic clients through different types of campaigns and I can say with pride that Department of Tourism, Government

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of Kerala has been a big success. But more is to be done. High taxes, double taxation, the absence of single window clearance systems and of course bureaucracy at certain pockets will kill the goose. It’s time for us to get up and re position ourselves with the fast moving neighbours. Good roads, availability of fresh water, telecomm: facilities etc will do wonders. For e.g.: I have seen couple of bio toilets recently installed at a major tourist destination in Trivandrum in a usable state. We all should remember ‘small things count a lot’.

By the way what are your future plans?

That’s very interesting.

Good question! Now my

www.metromartdaily.com

J P Hospitality ventures will remain focused on fleet expansion and related ventures in the near future. We do have ideas that will soon bring out the niche products and services to the market. I feel the ‘cruise culture’ is not in yet, so we look forward to explore this segment. Future plans also include our CSR’s that are well explained in our website:- www.vihaarahouseboats.com On a lighter note, what are your pastimes?

favourite pastime is to just sit on my boat’s deck with a country fishing rod. This may look silly, but you need to have patience and concentration for this and Ifeel this is a stress buster too. Otherwise I like drives, travel, reading, songs and spending time with my kith & kin. For more information6c, Beacon Green Lillies Apts. Near KSEB, Thirumala P.O. Trivandrum - 695010. +91 94472 11244 +91 9387305370 / +91 471 2356531 reservations@vihaarahouseboats.com operations@vihaarahouseboats.com http://www.vihaarahouseboats.com September 2013

33 33

METRO ART

India could’ve done without Modern Art Unlike with the Western world, India has never had a historic necessity to experiment with a genre that has come to be known as modern art, according to renowned painter-sculptor A Ramachandran. “Ideally, our art should be advancing along a path that is well rooted in the country’s own visual culture,” says the Delhi-based septuagenarian, whose first-ever exhibition of

September 2013

works in his native Kerala concluded in this coastal city last evening, lending excitement to the cultural circuit. The Padma Bhushan awardee notes that Europe did have a reason to rebel against paintings schools that largely revelled in realism till the mid-19th century. “Then photography was invented. That invalidated portrait and landscape

A Ramachandran

paintings. It was inevitable the art scene there changed.” Contrastingly, the Orient never had an art culture on parallel lines, notes the 78-year-old icon. “We in India have for long seen a flourish of various schools of art, none of which resorted to realism. It will be beautiful if each or most of them continued to exist,” says the artist whose 15-day mini retrospective

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in Kochi was organised by Vadehra Art Gallery (VAG) of Delhi, where Ramachandran has been living for the past five decades. Ramachandran’s exhibition at the two-storeyed Durbar Hall Gallery had its ground floor featuring the artist’s post-Yayati works such as Lotus Ponds that are inspired by timetested aesthetics of Indian art. Yayati, Ramachandran’s masterpiece, was completed in 1986 and around the time the artist began developing a completely different approach towards art. At the refurbished onetime palace here, curator R Siva Kumar chose to split its well-lit space to tastefully accommodate contrasting genres of the two defining periods of Ramachandran, realising the artist’s decade-old dream of showing one’s own creations to fellow Malayalis. The upper deck of the 160-year-old but recently-renovated building housed images that portray the darker side of human life, brimming with moods of violence and sarcasm — such as Anatomy Lesson and The Puppet Theatre. Ramachandran notes that Kerala’s modernist movements in literature www.metromartdaily.com

and cinema in the last century was spearheaded by rooted writers such as Thakazhi and Basheer and filmmakers like G Aravindan and Adoor Gopalakrishnan. “Paradoxically, when it came to art, the Malayali did not have leaders who drew inspiration from their own moorings,” he shrugs. He, however, is happy that the state “has begun to broaden its visual spheres to accept aesthetics unfamiliar to it”. Arun Vadehra, who owns the VAG, reveals that the gallery will be organising a mega exhibition of the comprehensive works of Ramachandran next year on the occasion of his 50th year in the capital. The just-concluded Kochi show was a big draw. Artist Somji aka K A Soman described the exhibition as “an entirely different experience providing rich visual interpretations on aesthetic values”. Blogger and critic Dr Ajay Sekher said the water-colours were “illuminating and refreshing”. Ramachandran, who was born in downstate Attingal in 1935, did his Masters in Malayalam literature before leaving Thiruvananthapuram for West Bengal in 1957 to pursue

the study of art at Santiniketan under masters such as Ramkinkar Baij, Nandalal Bose and Benodebehari Mukherjee. “His creativity bears rich shades of exposure to varied cultures of India and the rest of the world,” notes Prof Siva Kumar, who has been teaching art at Visva-Bharati University for more than three decades. Ramachandran, whose early paintings were an angry young man’s anxious and emotional response to human suffering, had a second tryst with Kerala in the early 1990s when he was appointed chairman of the state Lalithakala Akademi. Even so, this was the first time the celebrity’s works were exhibited anywhere in Kerala. The artist, who has been living in Delhi since 1964, taught art at Jamia Millia Islamia in the city for 27 years before taking voluntary retirement. In 2002, he was elected a Fellow at the Central Lalit Kala Akademi. The next year, he was awarded the Raja Ravi Varma Puraskaram and, in 2005, conferred the the country’s third-highest civilian honour. September 2013 2013 September

35 35

METRO FOCUS

Amritavarsham 60 Kerala government to provide six lakh saplings for afforestation drive CM inaugurates Mata Amritanandamayi Math’s year-long nationwide campaign Kerala’s forest department will provide six lakh saplings to be planted across the state as part of the massive nationwide afforestation drive launched by the Mata Amritanandamayi Math (MAM), Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Oommen Chandy announced. The Chief Minister formally inaugurated the initiative at Cliff House, his official residence in the state capital, by putting into the ground the first of 60 lakh

September 2013

saplings that the Math intends to plant across the country in one year’s time. One tenth of these trees will be planted in Kerala and the saplings for the purpose will be provided by the state forest department. The first 1.75 lakh of the saplings will be handed over immediately and around 50,000 will be provided every month with the aim of meeting the target for Kerala by June next year, Shri Chandy said. The afforestation cam-

paign is among a number of initiatives rolled out by the Math as part of the 60th birthday celebrations of spiritual leader Mata Amritanandamayi Devi, fondly called Amma by her followers around the world. “Environment protection and conservation is one of the most important services we can do for the society,” Shri Chandy said. “It is laudable that the Math has undertaken such a project on the occasion

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

of Amma’s 60th birthday.” MAM, a non-governmental organisation, is leading the “Amritavarsham 60” campaign to mark Amma’s 60th birthday on September 27. The celebrations will be held at Amritapuri, Kollam, over two days from September 26-27, and are expected to draw around five lakh followers and admirers of Amma. Swami Jnanamritananda Puri of MAM’s Amritapuri Ashram said the celebration by Amma’s devotees the world over serve as a reminder of the decades of selfless service that she has rendered to the society. “The new programmes we have launched are an extension of the compassion, kindness and love she has for the people,” he said. Present at the function were Brahmachari Sivamrita Chaitanya of MAM’s Kaimanam Ashram, Brahmachari Tapasyamrita Chaitanya of MAM’s Amritapuri Ashram, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Shri B S Korri and Assistant Conservator of Forests Shri Jayakumar Sharma. MAM will organise the distribution and planting of the saplings across India drawing support from its huge community of devotee-volunteers as well as www.metromartdaily.com

its educational institutions. The afforestation drive will also be conducted abroad where Amma’s other devotee-run organisations, collectively known as ‘Embracing the World’, will facilitate the saplingdistribution and planting. As a member of the United Nations Billion Tree Campaign, MAM has already assisted in the planting of more than one-million trees since 2001. The afforestation programme is part of volunteer-run green activities conducted by MAM. These include the Amala Bharatam Campaign (ABC), a programme aimed at improving public health and at restoring India’s beauty. Through ABC, the MAM has already undertaken more than 1,000 cleaning drives throughout India since 2010. At the request of the Kerala Government, it helped remove hundreds of tonnes of trash from the famous pilgrimage site of Sabarimala Temple and the adjoining Pampa River in south-central Kerala. This afforestation program and MAM’s cleaning drives are part of Amma’s teaching that “The Creator and the creation are not two” and that service to the environment is service to the Divine.

Sivamritha Chaitanya Mata Amritanandamayi Ashram Kaimanom

We have been conducting various social service activities every month. This month while celebrating the 60th birthday of Amma, the activities are taken up in a large scale. Cleaning drive of public places has been taken up in Thiruvananthapuram. At University office compound, the staff and students along with the public participated in the cleaning drive. Students from several colleges such as Women’s college, Law college and Institute of Management, Kerala and school children volunteered for the cleaning activities. The objective is to create public awareness, that it is also their responsibility in keeping public places clean and tidy. Medical camp for the poor and the needy is held at Vizhinjam. Doctors from Amrita Institute of Medical Science will be at the camp. Doctors from IMA will be attending the event.

September 2013

METRO RECIPE

Keralan Puli Inchi (Sweet and Tangy Ginger) If you like sweet and tangy dishes like me then I bet you...this will be your favorite. This is a typical dish in all keralan festivals or functions..You can find this dish in their plates. -4 tblspn - Turmeric powder / Manjalpodi / Haldi-1 tsp - Chilli powder-2 tsp Salt to taste Coconut Oil-2 tblspn

Method: - Heat 2 tblspn of oil in a kadai and add ginger and green chilli and mix well. - Add in turmeric powder and chilli powder and mix

For Tempering:

well.. - Season with salt and mix

Ingredients:

- Coconut oil-3 tblspn - Mustard seeds / Kaduku-1 - Ginger-1 cup made into tsp paste - Fenugreek seeds / Ven- Green chilli-5 made into dayam -1/2 tsp paste - Dry red chilli-2 - Tamarind / Puli -1 lemon - Asafoetida / Hing / Kaysize dissolved in water apodi-1 tsp - Jaggery / Sarkarai / Vellam - Curry leaves-1 spring

well..Pour in tamarind juice and let it come to a boil.. - Simmer for 10-15 mins until it thickens up.. - Throw in jaggery and mix well..Let this bubble for 5 mins till it get thickens..

I am Aarthi, I blog at Yum-

space where I store all my

my Tummy. My passion

recipes, but now it has a

towards cooking started

grown a lot more than I

just few years back. From that day onwards I started creating new recipes which was really appreciated by my friends and family. I wanted to save those recipes in a place where

thought it would be. I update my blog on a regular basis with step by step pictures which helps my readers a lot and show the ease of cooking. Do drop at my space sometime, everyone is welcome.

it never gets destroyed.

September 2013

Hence Yummy Tummy is

My Blog : http://www.yum-

born. It started as my little

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

Vendaikai Kichadi

(Fried Ladysfinger in a Coconut Yoghurt Sauce) This is a simple sidedish that can be made really quickly. Usually they deep fry ladysfinger for this dish but I just sautéd them in some oil till crispy and used it. - Coconut oil-3 tblspn Ingredients: Method: - Ladysfinger-20 chopped into thin rounds - Curd- ½ cup - Coconut- ½ cup - Curry leaves-1 spring - Green chilli-2 chopped - Mustard seeds / Kaduku-1 tsp - Dry Red Chilli-2 - Salt to taste

- Heat 2 tblspn of oil and add the ladysfinger and green chilli and fry till it gets crispy and golden.It will take around 10 mins. - Grind coconut into smooth paste. - Take this in a mixing bowl and add curd to this.

Season with some salt and mix well. - Add the fried ladysfinger in this and mix well. - Make tempering by heating oil and crackle - some mustard,dry red chilli,curry leaves. - Pour this over the mixture and mix well.. - Serve this with rice and any curry

Nendrapazham Pradhaman (Payasam) This one is specially served on onam, in keralan houses. The aroma of this payasam is wonderful with all those bananas, ghee, coconut milk and cardamom cups - Ghee - 1 tblspn - Cashews - 3 tblspn fried - Raisans - 3 tblspn fried - Cardamom Powder / Yelakai - 1 tsp Method: Ingredients: - Ripe Banana / Nendrapalam - 3 - Jaggery / Sarkarai - 1 cup grated - Thicker Coconut Milk - 1 cup - Thinner Coconut Milk - 2 www.metromartdaily.com

- Take chopped bananas in a kadai. Cover with 1 cup of water and let it cook for 10 mins till they are cooked and tender. - Now take them in a blender and make into a puree.

- Heat ghee in the same kadai. - Add the puree and saute for 5 mins. - Add in grated jaggery and mix well till the jaggery is dissoved. - Now add the thin coconut milk and let everything cook for 5 mins. - Add cardamom powder and mix well. - Now switch off the flame and add the thicker coconut milk, fried cashews and raisans. Give it a stir. - Serve hot or warm. September 2013

TRAVEL MART

Kerala Tourism Launches New Gesture-Controlled Website People from around the globe browsing the internet for a peep into Keralaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pristine destinations may not need a mouse, track pad or keyboard henceforth to navigate through the pages â&#x20AC;&#x201C; mere gestures would be enough. In yet another first, the Kerala Tourism has launched a new website (http://when-it-rains.com) with gesture-controlled features to help its users. The website, the first by a state tourism board in the country, introduces a user to the rain-washed plains, misty hills and the majestic backwaters of Kerala through a gesture-based interface.

September 2013

Launched as a part of the monsoon campaign by Kerala Tourism, the new website is one of the few tourism websites in the world to use the gesturecontrolled technology. Visually stunning images of the monsoon shot by Facebook fans of Kerala Tourism are used in the new website, developed by Stark Communications, the official marketing and communications agency of the Kerala Tourism Department. The website tracks movements and gestures made by a user in front of a webcam and responds to them, giving a user-friendly experience to those

browsing it. We are proud to present an innovative new website to people around the world who can now sit in front of a computer or with a smart phone and enjoy the multifarious experiences of the monsoon in Kerala even before they arrive in the state, said Kerala Tourism Secretary Shri Suman Billa. The new technology available today like the gesture-controlled feature on our new website plays an important role in linking destinations with the people, Shri Billa added. Kerala Tourism Director Shri Hari Kishore described

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

the gesturecontrolled website as yet another step in extending to the world the many experiences that Kerala can offer to a visitor. Interestingly, the new website is a combination of innovative technology and the fascinating experiences of the fans of Kerala around the world, Shri Kishore said. The social media was quick to embrace the Kerala Tourismâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new gesturecontrolled website. Since

www.metromartdaily.com

its launch on 28th May 2013, the new website has already received over 100,000 visits. The post on Facebook about the website has been seen by about 800,000 people so far and has got 13,000

likes besides 300 tweets about the website. The Kerala Tourism is a pioneer in integrating technology in promoting destinations both in India and abroad. The departmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s award-winning website (www. keralatourism. org) is one of the most-visited tourism websites in the world. Recently, Kerala Tourism had organized a live webcast of a Theyyam performance from a temple on its website for a global audience. September 2013

METRO EVENT

Visa-on-Arrival facility is a boost for Kerala Tourism, says Chief Minister Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi airports are among only eight in the country to offer T-VoA. It was rolled out in the first phase in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai. Two other airports that got T-VoA facility in the second phase are Bangalore and Hyderabad. Kerala is also the only state to have two airports offering the service. The introduction of Tourist Visa-on-Arrival (T-VoA) facility at Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi airports marks a new chapter for Kerala Tourism and will help attract more foreign visitors to the state, Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri. Oommen Chandy said. The Chief Minister, accompanied by Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Shri A P Anil Kumar, Hon’ble Minister for Health Shri V S Sivakumar and senior officials, reviewed arrangements at the special T-VoA counter which became operational on August 15 at the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport.

September 2013

A roughly 250 sq ft holding area has been set aside in the Immigration section and the exclusive visa desks are manned by Intelligence Bureau officials. Special enclosures have been built for photographing visitors, and displays, signages and foreign exchange counters have been set up at the facility. T-VoA is currently available for citizens of 11 countries –Japan, Singapore, Finland, Luxembourg, New Zealand, the Philippines, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Myanmar and Indonesia. These countries are markets where Kerala Tourism sees vast potential

and is beginning to make significant inroads. For instance the tourist arrivals from Japan rose by around 56% in five years to 11,440 in 2012; and the arrivals from Finland more than doubled over the period to 5,160 last year. Tourist arrivals from countries such as New Zealand, Singapore and The Philippines have similarly risen between 75% and 90% since 2008. “The VoA facility has been a long-standing demand from Kerala Tourism and now that we have got it, we intend to take full advantage of it,” said Shri A P Anil Kumar. “We are especially thankful to the

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central government and union ministers from Kerala, including Shri Mullapally Ramachandran and Shri K C Venugopal, for bringing this service here.”

the campaign to these countries, we will take part in travel fairs and take our roadshows there to tell people there how convenient visiting Kerala is.”

He said the service, although limited to 11 countries now, has opened up new avenues for Kerala Tourism. “The Department of Tourism will take

The Minister informed that Kerala Tourism will take part, for the first time, in one of Asia’s biggest tourism events – the JATA Travel Showcase 2013

in Tokyo from September 12-15. And in January 2014, it will travel to Helsinki, Finland, for the MATKA Nordic Travel Fair targeting the northern European markets. “We believe the T-VoA scheme will help Kerala Tourism achieve its target of 30 lakh foreign tourist

The impact of Visa on Arrival facility at Thiruvananthapuram Airport from eleven countries E M Najeeb

Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is one of the eight gateway airports in India, which has Tourist Visa on Arrival (TVoA) facility. Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi are airports with TVoA, by making it two such airports in Kerala. One of the main hassles international tourists have been facing was obtaining Indian Visa in time. Many tourists from the potential source markets have been put-off because of the trouble in obtaining Visa. Now with the two airports in Kerala getting the status of VoA points, Kerala Tourism will get a sudden boom in the number of tourist arrivals. Kerala can promote this facility to the holiday-makers of www.metromartdaily.com

11 countries to make use of the facility. The TVoA desk started operating on 15th August at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport. Tourists from Finland, Luxembourg, Myanmar, Singapore, Cambodia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Philippines, and Laos can obtain their Visas, on arrival at our airports. The necessary infrastructure prescribed by the Bureau of Immigration (BOI) has been already setup. Tourists can get a TVoA with a maximum validity of 30 days. The purpose should be recreation, sightseeing, and meeting friends or relatives. The visitors should have a confirmed hotel booking and return ticket, and should pay a

fee of US $ 60. A focused publicity campaign should be carried out at these markets letting all the concerned know of this facility. The tour operators in those countries should be well briefed about the facility. In the international travel marts, this should be projected as an attraction of Kerala Tourism. Very attractive options of packages should be developed by the tourism industry so that the tourists can have a total feel of Kerala within the time available. We should learn the special interest of each country and suitable packages should be offered. September 2013

arrivals by 2021,â&#x20AC;? he said. Kerala recorded 7,89,698 foreign tourist arrivals in 2012 the foreign exchange earnings tourched Rs 4,548 crores. Shri V S Sivakumar said plans are underway to create a Mobility Hub centered on the Thiruvananthapuram Airport. This will be a one-stop facility for visitors to access all transport services â&#x20AC;&#x201C; air, road, rail and waterways. A highlevel committee is due to meet in the first week of September to discuss the Mobility Hub scheme and also a proposal to set up an airport-linked industrial base consisting of small and medium enterprises manufacturing aircraft/ aviation components. The Chief Minister said

plans for the next phases of expansion of the Thiruvananthapuram airport are also progressing well. Senior officials who visited the VoA facility today include Shri Suman Billa, Secretary, Kerala Tourism; Shri S Harikishore, Director, Kerala Tourism and Shri V N Chandran, Director, Thiruvananthapuram Airport. T-VoA allows tourists from the 11 nations to request for a visa upon their arrival at either of the two airports. The fee is 60 US dollars and the visa is valid for up to 30 days. It will be issued only twice in one calendar year and to visitors who come to India for recreation, sightseeing and meeting friends or relatives.

Those applying for the visa should not have residence or occupation in India and should hold a passport with a minimum validity of six months. They should need to produce proof of confirmed hotel booking and return tickets when applying for the T-VoA. The decision to introduce Visa on Arrival service at select airports in the country, including Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi, was taken at the third meeting of the Inter-ministerial Committee on Tourism. The Union Ministry of Home Affairs gave its approval for the project and the Bureau of Immigration issued guidelines for the infrastructure facilities to be put in place.

Visa On Arrival - Fillip to the tourism sector

G Sudhiesh Kumar Managing Director Hotel Sea Face

September 2013

Visa on arrival (VOA) has been introduced in Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi airports. This is a welcome move for the tourism industry which has been in the doldrums ever since the start of the economic recession in the west. VOA as of now is only for 11 countries which are not great sources for tourism into India. Hence the focus should be to concentrate on tourism promotion in these countries and fur-

ther expand VOA to countries such as UK, Germany, Switzerland, USA, etc. The time is now appropriate to launch a serious marketing offensive especially in the wake of the fall in Rupee value which should make travel to India cheaper for tourists. The Kerala Hotel and Restaurant Association is always willing to extend all support to any step the state or central government may take in this regard.

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Sreekrishnolsav refreshed the principles of Holy Scriptures ‘Sreekrishnolsav 2013’ was held in the city to celebrate Sree Krishna Jayanthi on August 28th 2013. Logo for the event was released by H.H Aswathi Thirunal Goury Lekshmi Bai Thampuratty and Swamini Gurupriya Puri of Madhava Swamy Ashram Thirumala. The event held jointly by Kalanidhi, Metromart, Mathrubhumi, Sayanthanam, FRAT and Madhavaswami Ashramam was inaugurated by M. Jayachandran – the singer, composer and musician. While Geetha Rajendran Kalanidhi General Secretary welcomed the gathering, Siji Nair, www.metromartdaily.com

Metromart MD presided over the inaugural meeting. Brahmasree Gurupriya Puri gave a discourse at the function. N. S. Vinod Kumar was special guest of the occasion. Councilor P. Ashok Kumar, FRAT Rakshadhikari Punchakari G. Raveendran Nair, N.S. Janardhanan Pillai, and B. Raghunatha Pillai spoke at the event. Maruthamkuzhi Harikumar gave Vote of Thanks. A competition was held in Ramayana discourse for school students and Bhagavat Gita discourse for college students. Quiz was conducted on scriptures by Azhakam Aji

Kumar for school/college students. Competition winners were presented gifts at the event. The event concluded with Sri Krishna Leelamrutham dance presentation by Mohan Kumar Kalakshetra and party of Kalanidhi Nrithanjali. The event succeeded in identifying the knowledge of school and college students in Holy Scriptures. The teachings of Sree Krishna were conversed upon at the function. The principles of Bhagavat Githa and Ramayana and its great importance to humanity in today’s world were once brushed up in the minds of the gatheing. September 2013

EVENT SCAN

Kowdiar Park is to have a magnificent memorial of Swami Vivekananda. Thiruvananthapuram Corporationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kowdiar Park now has a magnificent memorial of Swami Vivekananda. The installation was inaugurated on September 11 by Vice President M. Hamid Ansari as the nation celebrates the 120th anniversary of Vivekanandaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic Chicago speech. The monument has a height of 40 feet. The 10-foot tall bronze statue of Vivekananda is sculpted by the Chennai-based Dakshinamoorthy. This Smriti Mandapam would have the features of a Kerala temple, following

September 2013

traditional Vastu principles. Kanyakumari Vivekananda Kendram, Thiruvananthapuram Sree Ramakrishnashramam, Bharatheeya Vichara Kendram and other prominent citizens of Thiruvananthapuram have come together to put up this memorial. The estimate cost of the structure is Rupees 1 crore. 100 tonnes of Krishnashila was brought in from Tamilnadu. Under the guidance of Aranmula Vastu Vidya Gurukulam, the carving works were done at Chengannur. Casting sheets have been fetched from Mannar. Vastu expert and Consultant

Engineer Manoj S. Nair of Vastu Vidya Gurukulam at Aranmula designed this Smriti Mandapam. P. Parameswaran, director, Bharatheeya Vichara Kendram has been monitoring the progress of the installation. He said that it is being completed as an eternal monument and that it would add beauty and pride to Thiruvananthapuram. Thiruvananthapuram Mayor K. Chandrika is the president of the construction committee, patronized by Uthradom Thirunal Marthanda Varma, head of the royal family of erstwhile Travancore.

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September 2013

DINING MART

Authentic Mughlai Food Festival at ‘The Capital’ in the state capital The stylish business hotel ‘The Capital’ situated in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram city offers a unique combination of upscale, elegant, warm hospitality and exceptional services. Leisure travelers and business travelers alike find this hotel conveniently located, refreshingly intimate and modern with its 37 rooms and suites.

Sunil Kumar Executive Chef The Capital

September 2013

The hotel has a multi-cuisine restaurant which offers a tasty fare of Indian, Chinese and Continental

food. The candle-light dining facility at this hotel is quite popular. With the festive season of Onam on, ‘The Capital’ held a ‘Mughlai’ food festival at its roof-top banquet area. The vegetarian and non-vegetarian appetizers included Chicken Shorba, Shahi Murg Soup, Mughlai Mutton Malai Soup, and Hareera Shorba. A variety of salads were put up at the fest. Kababs such as Paneer Shahi Tikka, Dingri Malai Tikka, Hara Bara Ka-

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bab, Makai Galouti Kabab, Murg Malai Tikka, Murg Achari Tikka, Boti Kabab were pleasing to the sense of taste. Moving on to the main course, the Mughlai bread specialties such as Masala Mughlai Keema Paratha, Shahi Paratha, Puthina Paratha can be paired with Jhinga Malai Curry, Machili Mumtaz, Palak Gosht, Meat Durbari, Keema Muttor, Mutton Rogan Josh, Shahjehani Murg Masala, Murg Noorjahani, and the vegetarian Darbari Dal and Dal Maharani. For the rice lovers, biriyani and pulao items along with Mughlai curries such as Shahi Paneer, Baingan Musslam were available. The extravagant meal do not make one turn away from experiencing the sweetness of Mughlai desserts which include Makai Ka Halwa – of corn, Fruity Firni – from rice powder, milk and mixed fruits, Zaf-

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rani Shahi Tukre – of bread slices in sweet syrup. Rare dishes of the Mughlai cuisine such as Lajjaldar Paneer, Paneer Tamatari, and Shahi Chicken Korma are made available. Breads like Mughlai Paratha made of mutton keema and Shahi Paratha of chicken are highlighted. The Chef Sunil Kumar S. with his 22 years of experience in various countries is getting ready to conduct a Payasam Mela from Sept 8th to 14th with 26 kinds of payasams at ‘The Capital’. Ada Prathaman will be

available on all days. Five payasam items have been planned for each day. The variety includes pappaya, pineapple, kappa, beetroot and tender coconut. The Chef said that any special demand in advance for a particular payasam will also be accommodated. The Mughlai fest, he said, has been very successful and the response has been remarkable. The ambience at the rooftop is further conditioned with live instrumental music, gazals, and classicals performed by a talented group. ‘The Capital’ offered the residents of Thiruvananthapuram city to experience the relishing cuisine of Mughal Royalty. The panoramic view of the entire city and Arabian Sea, the soothing live gazals, wafting flavors, and a distinctive aroma of whole and ground spices – provides the guests all the reasons to indulge. September 2013

AUTO MART

The world’s No.1 three-wheeler has just become better The new range of RE ‘Compact’ passenger vehicles was unveiled by Bajaj Auto – the world’s largest manufacturer of three wheelers. Of the 7 variants, the two-stroke and four-stroke versions fired by petrol, CNG and LNG were launched. The diesel version would be launched in a few months. The RE ‘Compact’ gives enhanced performance with its key features which include advanced DTSI engine, stronger chassis, and ergonomic design of shift levers and pedals offering comfort for both driver and passengers.

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The efficiency of this new range is apparent from the 10-15% better fuel efficiency, reduced maintenance costs, improved durability and reliability, easy serviceability, and easy repair technologies. It provides more savings for the customers. R.C. Maheswari, President (Sales & Marketing, Commercial Vehicles), Bajaj Auto Ltd., said the new range would help the customers increase their earnings and provides a vast improvement in the quality of their lives through these greener, more fuel efficient, more

comfortable and more reliable vehicles. He also added that the changes in the new range are of technology, which would be experienced over the life of the vehicle. RE ‘Compact’ are designed to have an uber-stylish look. The vehicle derives additional strength with its new three-piece chassis in the front, which also improves the loading capacity. RE ‘Compact’ has succeeded in keeping up with the mission of ‘Bajaj Auto’ to continually enhance customer benefits and user experience.

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September 2013

METRO BYTE

The Leading Designer Shop in Thiruvananthapuram Charms â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the Jeans store which began in 1980 has an array of high fashion, trend setting clothes for the modern man. Rajesh Vijayan, the proprietor of the shop, has drawn inspiration for his designs from across the globe. He has had the experience of designing clothes for actors in the tinsel world. The customers of Charms include people from a variety of fields including professionals, students, and those from the cinema field. The designer clothes

September 2013

from Charms have won prizes in a number of Fashion Shows. Wedding outfits are another specialty of Charms. Designing of wedding gowns for ladies is also currently taken up at this shop. A new shop focusing on wedding outfits for brides and grooms is planned. To overcome the limitations arising from branded costumes, Charms assists the clients with customized designs. The quality of stitching is maintained at top level for all the dresses made

available at this shop. The dressing materials at Charms can be considered as heralding the arrival of updated fashion trends in the city. Linen shirts, denim jeans, etc. are available at this designer store. For over 30 years, the clothing apparels from Charms have been extremely well received across India.

For more detailsCharms Tailors Vanross Jn,Trivandrum Tel 0471 4064333 Email-charmsrajesh@ gmail.com

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KTM 2014 to explore new markets Abraham George, Chairman & Managing Director of Intersight Group of Companies, has been unanimously elected as the new president of the Kerala Travel Mart

new president Abraham George said that KTM 2014 will explore new markets and identify more quality buyers from countries in East

Anish kumar

Abraham George (KTM) for 2013-15. The other office-bearers are: Vice presidentGopalakrishnan M.R., Secretary- Anish Kumar P.K., Joint Secretary- Roy

Chacko, and Treasurer – Jose Pradeep.The Managing committee members include Baby Mathew, Dilip Pottamkulam, Hari Kumar C,Janeesh J,Jose Mathew, Mathew C Thomas, . Mathews E V, Ravindran K, Riaz Ahmed, Riyaz U C, Ross Masood, Sajeev Kurup V, and Scaria Jose. Mathew Philip continues as the CEO of KTM.The

Jose Pradeep Asia, South America, and Europe. He said that KTM will target to attain benefit from the rupee devaluation and will penetrate the global market to make use of this opportunity.

Onam offers at Indroyal The wide array of innovative, space-saving and stylishly-designed furniture selections at Indroyal assists customers to transform their living spaces from the ordinary into the extraordinary. This Onam, Indroyal offers a discount of up to 40% on their furniture collection. Three lucky individuals would win a two-wheeler each. In addition, a holiday package is given to those who purchase for one lakh and above. The famwww.metromartdaily.com

ily (two adults and two kids) holiday package is of one night and two days at Poovar Island Resort. There is also a ‘Buy Now Pay Later’ scheme wherein customers can pay in installments without having

to pay any interest up to 6 months. The Onam offers at Indroyal gives one and all a chance to convert their homes into a real heaven with the durable, stylish and quality Indroyal products. September 2013

METRO BYTE

Ramanujan’s life is an inspiration for youth Kanigel’s biography of the mathematical genius released in Malayalam The life of mathematical genius Srinivasa Ramanujan is a lesson for every young person on how sheer determination can help overcome every obstacle and help one reach the pinnacle in their chosen field of study, Hon’ble Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said “Ramanujan was a man who encountered unimaginable difficulties in his life and still triumphed. His devotion to mathematics

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and his contributions will continue to inspire generations of mathematicians to come,” Shri Chandy said while releasing the Malayalam translation of Robert Kanigel’s acclaimed biography The Man Who Knew Infinity: A Life of the Genius Ramanujan. The first copy of Ananthatthe Arinja Aal was received by Prof. V N Rajasekharan Pillai, the Executive Vice President of the Kerala State Council

for Science Technology and Environment (KSCSTE). The book is a joint project of the Srinivasa Ramanujan Institute of Basic Sciences (SRIBS) – a capacity building initiative of the KSCSTE – and the State Institute of Languages, with the support of the Ramanujan Mathematical Society. It was translated by professors P Ramachandra Menon and T M Sankaran and Dr J W Crystal Florey

METRO METRO mart mart TH VA TH TH I RI R UU VA NN AA NN TH AA PP UU RR AA MM

and is the second translation of Kanigel’s work in an Indian language. A Bengali version was released recently. Shri K C Joseph, Hon’ble Minister for Culture, who presided over the book release function at the Kerala Science and Technology Museum said Ramanujan’s life should also make us rethink the way the education system functions today. “Ramanujan was a self-made man. He was shunned by the conventional education system at the time because of his obsession with mathematics, to the exclusion of other subjects; but his devotion was genuine and it paid off eventually,” he said. “Our education system too often fails to recognize the innate talent of students and we direct them down paths that are chosen for them by others.” Prof. Rajasekharan Pillai said Ramanujan’s life and

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Kanigel’s retelling of it demonstrated the universality of science. “Every student and teacher must read this for the important lessons it contains,” he said. Prof. Pillai said KSCSTE and the Kerala Institute of Languages are collaborating to bring more such important works in science to the Malayalam speaking public. Dr M R Thampan, Director of the Institute of Languages; Prof. C G Ramachandran Nair, Member, Governing Body of the Institute; Prof. Ambat Vijayakumar, Head of the Department of Mathematics at CUSAT and Dr Shibu Sridhar, Assistant Director, Kerala Institute of Languages spoke on the occasion. Kanigel’s inspirational book published in 1991 details the extraordinary life and work of Ramanujan, especially his seminal mathematical contribu-

tions and his life-changing association with English mathematician G H Hardy. The translation of the book into all Indian languages was a nationwide initiative launched in 2012 by the Government of India as part of the National Mathematical Year celebrations to mark the 125th anniversary of Ramanujan’s birth. The book release ceremony at the Priyadarshini Seminar Hall of KSTM was preceded by the screening of a documentary on the life of the mathematician who died in 1920 aged just 32 after compiling thousands of astonishing mathematical results despite having no formal training in the subject. Letters from an Indian Clerk, the documentary by Christopher Sykes, was produced in 1987 on the centenary of Ramanujan’s birth.

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METRO UPDATE

Trivandrum Talent Show Trivandrum is going to witness the largest students’ Talent fest in the district. Face Media Research Center and Face Media Communications is jointly conducting the First ‘TRIVANDRUM TALENT SHOW’ from September third week to November 2013. It consists of several competitions and other programmes in order to find out the talented students in Trivandrum district. More than One lakh students from 5000 schools in Trivandrum district will participate in this gala of events. ‘Talent Face Scholarship Examination’ for LP, UP level students is one of the main attractions of the festival. Those who receive more than 50% marks in the Preliminary written examination in their own schools get qualified to sub-district level competitions. First three winners

September 2013

from each sub-district level will be eligible for final competition.

can apply. Expert judging panel guides the competitions.

Another specialty of this fest is the ‘Talent Quiz’ Competitions for LP, UP and High School students. Along with individual competitions conducted in schools, school teams can also participate directly in sub-district level competitions.

The students participating in this show will get a chance to meet the Masters and also obtain several Media Workshops, Film Workshops, Acting Workshops, Personality Development Classes, Language Training etc. The first 50 students who register from each school can attend different workshops. There will be various Seminars, IT Fest, Science Fest, Children’s Film Festival, Study Tour and lot more. Registration started for the students who studies in Trivandrum districts. For registration and more details Contact: 9961035240. Email: trivandrumtalentshow@ gmail.com. Updations can also available through facebook.com/trivandrumtalentshow.

The winners will be awarded with Gold Medals, Mementos, Cash Prizes, Scholarships, Books and study tour etc. Competitions on Painting, Recitation, Elocution, Acting, Dance, Poetry Writing, Reading, Music, IQ test, Essay Writing, Story Writing, and Project Presentation etc will be conducted on different dates as a part of this Festival. Those who outshined in school youth festivals or other competitions on these items earlier

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September 2013

Onolsav 2013 with Janamaithri Police Janamaithri Onolsav 2013 was jointly organized by Janamaithri Police, Kalanidhi and Metromart at Bhagyamala Auditorium, Chandrasekharan Nair Stadium. Minister for Home and Vigilance Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan inaugurated the event. He said the Janamaithri Police should take part in Onolsav and convey their message to the public. Metromart CEO and Managing Director Siji Nair, Kalanidhi General Secretary Geetha Rajendran, Janamaithri nodal office Assistant Commissioner Sajan Koikkal, B Sandhya

IPS and other prominent people took part in the event. Seminars on contemporary topics such as Janamaithri and women safety, free medical camp, musical workshop, an eventful cultural evening were featured. Onam kits were distributed for free to poor families at the Onolsav. Cultural activities such as Thiruvathira

kali, Kolkali etc., were performed at the function. ‘Janangalanu Police’ – a play performed by Janamaithri Police took place. A drama titled ‘Mampazham’ written by Rajeev Gopalkrishnan was held at Janamaithri Onolsav 2013.

Schools invited to join KSCSTE’s new science enrichment venture for students The Kerala State Council for Science Technology and Environment (KSCSTE) is launching a series of special coaching classes for high school students to help widen their knowledge base and build a scientific temperament among them.

functions under the Kerala Department of Education.

fiction’.

The inaugural programme will be a day-long seminar titled ‘Sasthra Sameeksha’ to be conducted on Saturday, September 28, at the auditorium in Sasthra Bhavan, Pattom, Thiruvananthapuram.

nate three to five Class IX

The classes will supplement science lessons taught in schools and the scheme supported by the District Institute of Education &Training (DIET) Trivandrum, which

The classes will be taken by reputed science teachers and will cover topics such as ‘Science in the Class & Home’, ‘Computer as an Educational tool’ and ‘The world of Science

September 2013

Each school can nomistudents and one science teacher, if they are interested, to take part in the programme. A total of 60 students will be enrolled in one batch. The schools may send names of the participants to Principal, DIET, Attingal, Trivandrum before September 20. For more details call: 9447321100.

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September 2013

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September 2013

e Last Leaf Malayalees are all set to welcome Onam

Onam is at our doorstep! The spectacular festival attracts thousands of tourists from across the country and the globe. The most honorable aspect of Onam is that it makes a time for homecoming of people staying far away from their families. NRKs are back at home to join their families on this auspicious occasion.

aar 2012 to begin on Dec 19 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Be a p e region's largest gathering of Tra Immense popularity of the festival is further promoted by the Government of Kerala by celebrating Kerala Tourism Week during the time of Onam. The festival is celebraed with equal fervor irrespective of class or creed.

Vyapaar 2012 will act as an exciting pla Business establishments in the city considering Onam as a commercial for Indian traders asopportunity it will feature a va offer different schemes and facilities for their customers. exhibits from various sectors. It is a co Trade Show The District Tourism Promotion Councils would conduct artson andTechnology, cultural events in Electronic all the districts during this period. In Thiruvananthapuram district, be Textiles, Tourismthere andwould Infrastructure. events organised by the District Tourism Promotion Council at places such as Varkala, Chirakeezh, Shanghumugham, Aruvikkara, Dam and TheNeyyar event willKovalam. be held from 19th

to 23r December 2012 at Mascot Hotel, Triva A number of events such as kite flying competition, classical and modern events, toplace beacross featured with a wide variety of food fests, etc., are set to take Thiruvananthapuram - the variety of s Capital city of the State. that are related to one's specific areas interest. Vyapaar 2012 will provide an a Metro Mart, true to its form, has done wide coverage of the happenings in for2013â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Traders Brands to m Thiruvananthapuram this Onam. It has opportunity also organised â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Onolsav from Sept& 11th to 15th in association with Janamaithri National Police and Kalanidhi. At Onolsav, the agenda & International authorized pa includes arts and cultural programmes along with medical camps, trade fair and exhiagents, dealers and Customers. bition, etc. Metro Mart welcomes one and all to Onolsav 2013.

It will be the perfect place to access p suppliers and service provider from di industries. This 5-day event will not on the tangible business needs but it will help in building bonds for the future b facilitating interactions between vario traders.

I take the pleasure of wishing you all a Very Happy Onam.

September 2013

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By being a part of 'Vyapaar 2012' you a T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M

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September 2013

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