Postnoon E-Paper for 02 June 2012 by Scribble Media & Entertainment Pvt. Ltd.

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ith Yahoo! launching its newest web browser, Axis and Google knocking out new versions of Chrome at an alarming rate, Firefox and Microsoft are hanging on for dear life. So whose side are you on?

ove over, Robert Pattinson — Charlize Theron is taking your place! No, Kristen Stewart is not replacing her boyfriend with her Snow White co-star, but K-Stew, really digs Ms Theron.

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JUNE 2, 2012 HYDERABAD

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KILL?

Many driving schools in the City fail to train their students in the basics of driving as well as road etiquette. Illegal licences are also a concern. REPORT ON PG 4

OFF THE COURT

ears ago, when her parents gifted her a badminton racket, little did they know they were shaping her future. Now, she is representing the country at the upcoming Olympics. Meet Ashwini Ponnappa. PG 18

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ON SATURDAY

PAGE TWO SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2012

COSTUMED COMPANION

Library summer camp

SRINIVAS SETTY

A library summer camp for parents and faculty of UG and PG students will be held from May 10 onwards. The camp will provide guidance for faculty and final year PG students for National/State lectureship and scholarship test(NET/APSET) for `3,650. Where: Hyderabad library services, Sagar View Complex When: May 10 - June 10, Contact: (040) 2322 2247, 94412 37751

Brunch sparkles Choose from grills, pastas, Oriental, Continental or Indian and follow it up with a delicious selection of desserts at The Arena’s special brunch. Where: The Arena, Taj Deccan, Rd No 1 When: Every Sunday Contact: (040) 6652 3939

The refund This play takes a dig at existing educational system. It shows how systems and practices of education followed all over the world focus more on rote learning and preparing the individual for examinations rather than imparting knowledge. Where: Lamakaan, Banjara Hills, Rd No1 When: June 2, 7.30pm onwards Contact: 96427 31329

For the women Head to Tease at Vivanta by Taj for La Femme, a day dedicated to the woman of toady every Saturday. Where: Vivanta by Taj, Begumpet When: Ongoing Contact: (040) 6725 2626

Agnii for all Agnii Art For All is a Bangalore based non-profit group. Through music, dance and theatre, they spread awareness on social issues. Their teams consists of people from all works of life. Where: Truffles Cafe, Jubilee Hills, Rd No10 When: June 2, 11am onwards Contact: (040) 2355 0105

Summer camp Annapurna International School of Film and Media will be holding a Summer Camp program in filmmaking, acting and photography. The second batch is from May 28. Where: Annapurna School, Banjara Hills When: Ongoing

CINEMAS

Contact: (040) 4914 1234

Contact: (040) 2355 0105

Paradigm shift

Artistic exhibits

Mumbai-based fusion band PARADIGM will be performing live on May 3. Where: Hard Rock Cafe, Banjara Hills, Rd No When: May 31, 9pm onwards Contact: (040) 6463 6375

On a look out for traditional prints and crafts? Head to an exhibitional of traditional handicrafts and artistic handlooms of Gujarat which has around 10 tribal craftsmen and 10 other artisans from Gujarat. Where: West Marredpally community grounds, Marredpally When: Ongoing, 10am onwards

Colonial Cousins live Colonial Cousins — the extremely popular duo of Hariharan and Leslie Lewis will be performing live at Shilpa Kala Vedika to support Sparsh Hospice Care Centre. Where: Shilpa Kala Vedika, Madhapur When: June 3, 6.30pm onwards

Calligraphic works Head to Truffles Cafe for the calligraphic works of Sri Parameshwar Raju in the exhibition titled Ramayanam. Where: Truffles Cafe, Jubilee Hills, Rd No 36 When: Ongoing, 11am onwards

Madhubani workshop The YMCA Secunderabad is hosting a madhubani painting workshop. The workshopis being fecilitated by an artist from Madhubani. Where: YMCA Secunderabad, West Marredpally When: June 18-June 29 Contact: 98490 07736, 99595 57183

Theatre workshop Samahaara is hosting special four week summer acting workshops. The workshops will be held for a duration of four weeks in three different parts of the City. Where: Vidyaranya School,

The Terrace, The Actor’s Studio When: Ongoing , Monday-Friday Contact: 83411 20303

Kid’s day out Oxford Bookstore is organising a unique fun-filled workshop ‘A Kid’s Day Out’ for the children. The fiveday workshop will host exciting activities and competitions like baby show, painting, clay moulding. Where: Oxford Bookstore, The Park, Somajiguda When: June 2-June 6, 11am onwards Contact: 91601 48444

Budding entrepreneurs A unique management and entrepreneurial workshop for students of age group 11-17, at ISB Hyderabad from June 4 to June 9. The workshop is open for children in the age group of 11-17. Where: Indian School of Business, Gachibowli When: June 4-June 9, 9am onwards Contact: 98665 61690

Big Cinemas, Ameerpet, 30581470; Cinemax, Banjara Hills, 44565555; Cine Planet , Kompally, 61606060; INOX, Banjara Hills, 44767777, Prasads, Tank Bund Rd, 23448888; PVR, Punjagutta, 8800900009; Talkie Town, Miyapur, 40214175; Tivoli, Secunderabad 27844973

CITY SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2012

Pickpocketing gang held

he Market police have arrested a four-member pickpocketing gang and seized `76,000 from them. The accused were identified as T Dayanand, 55, of Regimental Bazaar and Mohd Obeid, 28, Mohd Chand Pasha, 28, Azmathullah, 55, all residents of Kishanbagh in the Old City. Several cases of pickpocketing had been reported in and around the area.

Naidu blasts YSR

Teenager drowns in pool

DP supremo Chandrababu Naidu said the former CM YSR had written to him in 2004 for permission to sell his house to clear debts. Permission was sought because it was on government land. Addressing an election meeting, Naidu wondered how YSR had amassed wealth in a few years. He asked people to realise what YSR was and what his son wants to be.

enkat Sai, 11, a class VI student of Secunderabad, died due to drowning on Thursday. He drowned while swimming in a pool situated in Patny area under the Mahankali police station limits. The Mahankali police said that his swimming coach Ramakrishna pulled him out and shifted him to a hospital but he died soon after.

Pseudo media MD in lock up

EC notice to AP CM for violation

he Election Commission has issued a notice to AP Chief Minister N Kiran Kumar Reddy for allegedly violating the model code of conduct with comments over religion for the June 12 bypolls at Tirupati. Reddy had on May 11 allegedly said in Tirupati that voters should vote for Congress to ensure the reli-

MOHD SUBHAN

mohd.s@postnoon.com

ike an old drunk, a Swift car zigzagged along the Shamshabad road around 7.30 pm on Thursday night, scaring other motorists, pedestrians and push-carts out of their wits. Many ran for cover but no casualty occurred. Some even suspected it could be a reality show or a film scene. But some traffic cops noticed the dangerous behaviour and informed their colleagues on duty ahead about the car number. At Nampally, policemen stopped the car and confronted the driver. Sitting beside him was a glamorous sex worker. The man turned out to be besotted. He was unable to speak clearly but blurted out his identity: do you know who I am? Managing director of so-and-so channel. “Keep off.” The confused cops got in touch with the with the channel because he channel and got a shock. The realised that media has powchannel managers told the ers. Thus, he approached a policemen that the man was fairly successful local channel a fraud who had approached offering them some money to them with a partnership proget in but the channel posal some time ago but they refused. Despite rejection, he had rejected him knowing continued to use the channel his character. name and made visiting cards Emboldened, policemen as MD of that channel. pulled the man out and Reddy said his new-found released the sex worker who friend had a farm house in mumbled her gratitude to the Shamshabad-Hyderabad and police and bolted. Khan allegedly used to lure Mansoor Khan Here was Mohd Mansoor young women with the promise Khan, a self-styled channel managing of making them TV stars. director who had earlier made some docuThe Thursday evening incident was mentaries and small budget art films for one of them, only, this time it happened to Tollywood. be a sex worker. Unveiling the filmy-type saga for the Interrogation revealed that Khan was benefits of the Postnoon readers was ACP living alone and was a divorcee. He used a Abids, B Limba Reddy. ‘press’ sticker on his car prominently to Mansoor Khan, 40, belongs to scare away law keepers. Meriyalguda of Nalgonda and came to the The ACP said the police found some City 15 years ago to make a career, said more misuse of press identity. “Many Reddy. Slowly, Khan befriended some film people are abusing the ‘press stickers’ producers and became an assistant prowhich give them some immunity, thanks ducer. He made some documentary films to police respect the media holds but the too. misuse hurts the genuine media people Along the way he developed friendmore than anybody else, “he observed. ship with a channel manager of an UrduKhan has been arrested and produced Hindi-English. Khan too got enamoured in court. He is currently in jail.

GARY EDWARD MONT

Police find that many elements with unsavoury pasts are using the ‘press’ sticker on their vehicles to evade policemen

gious sanctity and sacredness of the temple town. Reddy was issued a notice earlier this week for allegedly saying at a campaign meeting that each party worker should cast 10 votes in favour of Congress. He however, clarified that it was a slip of tongue and not a deliberate attempt to violate the poll PTI code.

CITY SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2012

Teaching them how to create chaos on the road

N SHIVA KUMAR

Many driving schools in the City fail to train their students in the basics of driving as well as road etiquette. Illegal licenses are also a concern

RAHUL RAMAKRISHNA

rahul.r@postnoon.com

riving schools in the City teach more often the rote technique than the traffic rules and sensibilities of driving a vehicle in the busy streets. Enrolling into any of the hundreds of driving schools in Hyderabad leaves one with an easy-to-get driver’s license regardless of his/her knowledge of driving. With no common sense or knowledge, many of these drivers armed with legitimate driving licenses, create havoc on road. In fact, one particular school emphasises only on the “clutch-gear-accelerator-test pass” formula that guarantees a driver a license. While the Haryana government has made a very welcoming move of granting the authority to license

drivers right at their educational institutions, Andhra Pradesh remains far behind when it comes to driving etiquette and traffic sense. A driving school in Somajiguda teaches students on a batch basis. Four or more students are taken out for driving classes, where the instructor is seated next to the driver’s seat and offers guidance (averting a disaster by braking at the right moment etc.) A check conducted by Postnoon reveals that not many of the driver-teachers are aware of the importance of lane discipline, seat belt safety, indicator usage etc. The manual guidance and knowledge required to know how to drive an automobile is taught. Surprisingly, some teachers have never taught their students approximation of the length of the car bonnet and the right seating methods! Harish Yadav, a student at a driving school offers an interesting insight into the teaching. “When four or more people are taken on a trip to learn driving,

it gets difficult to adjust to every student’s style of learning. I have not been told about the importance of indicators, half clutch, full clutch and acceleration pressure. There is no say over how to drive vehicles in difficult weather conditions, especially during the rains when driving a car on the City roads is a nightmare.” What is more interesting is, half-trained drivers who often fail the driving test manage to

get a driving license, thanks to an unholy tie up the test inspectors have with the driving schools. When contacted about the validity of teaching, RTA joint commissioner Pandu Ranga Rao said, “Issuing the license depends upon how well the candidate has fared in the test. It is however true that there is no validity to these tests anymore, considering that touts and brokers play the middlemen in it.

We will look into this situation and ensure stricter norms are practiced.” Surprisingly, a middle aged lady who is a resident of Begumpet was granted a driver’s license, even though she could not drive a car or even a two wheeler! This decadent system of teaching driving and issuing licenses ought to be seriously looked into considering the importance of road safety for our lives.

Now pay for ‘waiting’ Osama Salman salman.o@postnoon.com

MR, which manages the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) in Shamshabad, was recently forced to introduce a charge of `20 at the arrival section aka the airport village, for denizens who come to receive their friends and family. Why? Because there were ‘other’ people who came here to spend some time away from the City. However, this hasn’t gone down too well with the visitors. You pay about `1,200 in total for a trip to the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) and back in a taxi, or fill your tank with `600 worth of fuel, or even pay `350 for a return trip or ` 200 for a one-way trip in the Aero Express for each passenger. Then you pay a minimum parking charge of `70. Till here, people were willing to pay, although they weren’t too

happy about it either. But the additional `20 just to sit in the waiting lounge outside the arrivals, which until a few days back was free, is making them feel the pinch. “Using the services of the airport is only becoming more

expensive by the day. Just to sit on a chair, the airport is levying charges on us which, in my opinion, is unfair. Reaching the airport itself takes so much money, `100 to `150 for sitting in a visitor’s lounge inside the airport, is alright as you have an AC hall at

your disposal. But `20 more isn’t acceptable. It's more like if you want good infrastructure at your disposal you have to pay for it," said Vimal Singh, a businessman from the City who goes to the airport regularly to receive his clients. “Last week, I was at RGIA to pick up my sister. She was coming from Dubai and five of us went to receive her. Each of us was charged `20. It isn’t about paying `20, it’s about paying for everything — from the cab, food, waiting at the sitting lounge, and parking. Everything has a price. Anyone coming or going to the airport needs to think twice because of the charges they levy on every little thing,” said Shailender S, an accounts executive working in a multinational bank. A spokesperson from GMR, who wished anonymity, said that they have started charging customers only to unclog the arrival area.

“Earlier, the arrival sections for domestic and international flights were separate. We have made it common now. There have been instances where up to 15 people come to receive a single passenger. It gets very crowded. For a single person who has come for the same, he might not get space. Since the airport is open 24x7, a lot of people come here just to spend time, even couples. We introduced this charge to screen this crowd,” said the spokesperson. On the other hand, if the flight is delayed, denizens have to wait a long time, even hours in the worst-case scenario. “Our primary focus is the convenience of passengers. We want only people who come with a passenger or to receive someone to come here. The amount is affordable, and while many may complain, we have started charging this fee for the ease of passengers,” said the spokesperson defending the charge.

FOCUS SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2012

A life less ordinary

Ilayaraja, one of the greatest music directors of all time, turns 69 today. We pay a tribute to this living legend who has enthralled us for over three decades Hemanth Kumar

hemanth.k@postnoon.com

alling Ilayaraja a genius would be nothing short of a cliche. With over 900 films to his credit since 1976, Ilayaraja will always be rated among the finest composers who brought a new wave of music into films. Born on June 2, 1943, Ilayaraja took a keen interest in Tamil folk music from an early age, but what really set him apart later on was his use of Western Classical music. In 1976, Panchu Arunachalam, the producer of his debut film Annakili, gave him the official screen name Ilayaraja. Music director duos like Vishwanathan-Ramamurthy, Shankar-Ganesh who were ruling the roost in Tamil for most part of the 60s and 70s by the time Ilayaraja found a breakthrough. By 1977, the audience were already mesmerised by Ilayaraja’s compositions and one of his films Kavikkuyil proved his classical prowess. He cement-

ed his place with films like Kizhake Pogum Raill, Poonthalir, Jhonny, Nizhalgal, Moodu Pani and Raajapaarvai. He went on to compose music for several Telugu films like Abhilasha, Sagara Sangamam, Swathi Muthyam, Rudraveena to name a few. An entire generation was swining to his peppy numbers. People who have worked with him can’t stop praising him. Lakshmi Manchu, who collaborated with Ilayaraja for Gundello Godaari, recalls, “He composed six songs for the film within few hours. It was unbelievable and I was amazed that he remembers things we had discussed eight months ago. He writes his own music which is so rare in India.” He has even stunned the directors he has worked with. Singer Suchitra narrates one such incident and says, “A scene in Chinna Thambi required background score and Ilayaraja hadn’t scored the music for a long time. P Vasu, the director of the film, was agitated but Ilayaraja asked him to

wait till the film’s release. P Vasu was even more shocked to see that the final version didn’t

have any background score in that scene, but it didn’t matter because the audiences were in

tears.” In 2005, singer Chinmayi had the honour of performing in his concert in Italy. “He was quite humble which surprised me a lot because people kept telling me that he gets angry very easily. Before the concert, when I met him for the first time, out of fear I cried before him and he said, ‘Why are you crying? Do I look like a ghost?’ He has a nice way of easing things out.” His music will continue to inspire generations to come. Music director Devi Sri Prasad sums up, what people feel about Ilayaraja, saying, “Ilayaraja is the human form of the divine expression called music. This is what I feel about him in my heart and I have this written under his huge wall size photograph in my studio. What more can I say about this legend who has been the sole inspiration to not just any musician but also to any director, writer or actor since his evolution. Ilayaraja is the first name of music or music his alternate name.”

NATION SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2012

BJP to launch countrywide stir

Maya spent crores on ads

Ex-SI kills son, self

NEW DELHI: BJP today announced it will

LUCKNOW: The previous Mayawati

MADURAI: Unable to bear the vegetative state of his 26-year old son who was in coma for more than a year, a retired police sub-inspector allegedly killed him and ended his own life at Kannanendal near here today, police said. Vigneswaran was in coma for more than a year after being injured in a road accident and was being taken care of by his parents in their house.

hold a fortnight-long agitation across the country from June 7 which will culminate in a court arrest programme on June 22 to protest steep hike in petrol prices, alleged attack on the country’s federal structure by the Centre and price rise. In a statement issued here, BJP general secretary Ananth Kumar said the decision to launch a ‘Jan Sangharsh Abhiyan’ was taken on Friday.

government in Uttar Pradesh had spent over `121 crore on decorative advertisements during the last five years to showcase its programmes and achievements, the UP Legislative Council was informed today. In a written reply, the state government said in 2007-08 over `13 crore was spent on advertisements while in 08-09 over `20 crore was spent.

Brisk voting on in Kerala bypoll

INLD MLA shot at in New Delhi NEW DELHI: INLD MLA Bharat Singh was shot at this morning in south-west Delhi by “four-five” unknown attackers with police suspecting it to be a case of personal rivalry. A passerby Dharampal was also injured in the incident which took place near the MLA’s office in Najafgarh’s Sarangpur village at around 8.30am, a senior police official said. According to the official, four to five people came and opened fire at Singh, the 35-year-old MLA from

Voting for the assembly by-election from Neyyattinkara segment near the Kerala capital got underway this morning on a brisk note. Candidates of the ruling Congress-led UDF, CPI(M)-led LDF and BJP are engaged in three-cornered fight in the rural constituency, located about 15 km south-east of the capital. According to official sources, an impressive voter turnout was reported from most parts of the rural segment in the initial hours itself. A total of 1.6 lakh voters are eligible to cast their ballots in

Najafgarh, who suffered a bullet injury. Dharampal, a villager who was passing through the area also, was caught in the firing and got injured. Both were rushed to the hospital and are undergoing treatment. “We are investigating the matter. No arrests have been made,” the official said. Singh is the brother of MCD councillor Krishan Pahalwan against whom there are several criminal cases. PTI

Music that endears NEW DELHI: Indians may not be that familiar with Doc Watson, the American pioneer of bluegrass and country music who died May 30, but Bobby Cash, India’s own Watson, says “the salt-of-the-earth music is slowly catching up” with the country’s children. Bobby Cash, who has made a name for himself as an independent artist in Australia and as the only Indian to record in Nashville, the country music Mecca in the United States, sustains on his solo music. He ascribes the growing popularity of country music — mostly

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ballads with powerful narratives — in India to the Internet and live concerts that have spread to the remote reaches of the country. The fact that country music sports a Spartan instrumentation of guitar, mouth organ and a banjo makes rendering of the genre easy, he says. “Internet has almost changed the awareness about music in the country. Once people start researching country music on the Internet, they begin to like it. It is so easy to share your music. You can watch videos,” Cash told IANS.

QUEEN OF THE TRACKS

the polls. Though the main battle in Neyyattinkara is between R Selvaraj (Congress) and F Lawrence (CPI-M) of LDF, entry of former Union Minister and senior BJP leader O Rajagopal has virtually turned the contest into a three-cornered one. The bypoll is especially crucial for CPI-M as it is their sitting seat, vacated by R Selvaraj, who has joined Congress. The poll also came at a time when CPI-M is on the defensive with several of its activists being arrested in connection with the murder of RMP leader TP Chandrasekharan on May 4. PTI

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A FRESH NEW POINT OF VIEW Central Railway genearal manager Subodh Jain flags off Deccan Queen, which completes 82 years of service, at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus in Mumbai on Friday. PTI

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WORLD SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2012

CLASSIFIEDS AUTOMOBILES

Big Ben aka Elizabeth Tower?

ritain’s famed parliament clock tower Big Ben is set to be renamed the Elizabeth Tower in honour of the queen’s diamond jubilee, a report said on Friday. Prime Minister David Cameron is among 331 lawmakers who have signed up to a campaign to bestow the tribute to Queen Elizabeth to mark her 60th year on the throne, the Daily Mail reported.

Romney is still mighty rich

epublican Mitt Romney is not the wealthiest American to run for president, but he is undoubtedly a member of the mega-rich, according to disclosure forms he filed on Friday with US authorities. The Romney campaign pegged his net worth at between $190 million and $250 million — not quite the billionaire status of Ross Perot, who sought the White House in the 1990s, but mighty wealthy nonetheless.

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53 DAYS TO GO

P29

Putin stands firm on Syria as civil war fears grow DAMASCUS: Russia stood firm in the face of growing international pressure for tougher action over Syria, rejecting military intervention and questioning sanctions as fears of civil war grew. And as world leaders on Friday voiced fears the violence-wracked nation stood on the brink of civil war, the UN Human Rights Council ordered an independent probe to hunt those guilty of last week’s massacre in Houla. The London-based Syrian Observatory says as many as 2,300 of the more than 13,400 people killed since the uprising against Bashar al-Assad’s regime began in March last year have died since April 12. But despite the relentless violence, there are sharp differences between Arab and Western governments and Damascus allies Beijing and Moscow on the way forward. Russian President Vladimir Putin, who met separately with German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Francois Hollande, warned the situation in Syria was “extremely dangerous” and said he saw emerging signs of a civil war. But he struck a fiery tone in a joint press conference with Hollande, saying “sanctions hardly ever work in an efficient manner” and indicating that Bashar al-Assad’s departure would not in itself resolve the crisis. “What is happening in Libya? What is happening in Iraq? Has it become safer there?” he said in Paris. “We propose to act in an accurate, balanced manner at least in Syria.”

Syria massacre frays US-Russia ties

Russian President Vladimir Putin (L) and France’s President Francois Hollande take part in a press conference at the presidential Elysee in Paris on Friday. AFP/ BERTRAND LANGLOIS

But Hollande kept up the pressure for decisive action, insisting that Assad’s departure was “a prerequisite for a political transition” and that “there must be sanctions” against his regime. “Bashar al-Assad’s regime has conducted itself in an unacceptable and intolerable manner. It has committed acts that disqualify itself ” from governing, said Hollande. Earlier, Merkel and Putin found common ground on backing the peace mission of UN-Arab League envoy Kofi Annan but the former

UN chief himself admitted to frustration at the slow progress he was making in staunching the bloodshed. After his talks in Berlin, the Russian president underlined his opposition to military intervention to stop the bloodshed. “You cannot do anything by force,” Putin told reporters. He also hit back at suggestions Moscow was supplying arms for use in Syria. “As far as arms supplies are concerned, Russia does not supply the weapons that could be used in a AFP civil conflict,” Putin said.

WASHINGTON: Tensions between the United States and Russia have sharply escalated since a massacre in Syria, as Moscow holds firm in the face of US charges that it has emboldened Bashar al-Assad’s regime. The latest friction comes weeks into a new term by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has little patience for Western criticism and has already butted heads in a longstanding row over a NATO missile shield in Europe. Russia and Iran are Syria’s primary allies and the US has ramped up criticism since the May 25 massacre in pro-opposition Houla, where gunmen rounded up and killed 108 people, 49 of them children. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has denounced Moscow’s arms sales to Syria and warned that Moscow’s policies could help spark a “civil war.” Russia hit back, pinning blame for the massacre on foreign support for the rebels. Syria is Moscow’s main remaining foothold in the Arab world and provides access to the Mediterranean Sea at the port of Tartus. AFP

Moody’s lowers Greek rating on fears of euro exit

Judge revokes bail for George Zimmerman

NEW YORK: Moody’s rating agency late on Friday said it was lowering Greece’s highest possible credit rating because there was an increased risk that the country would exit the euro zone. Moody’s said it “has lowered its assessment of the highest rating that can be assigned to a domestic debt issuer in Greece to Caa2 based on the increasing risk of a exit by the country from the euro area.” The highest rating “on any Greek security is currently B1, which is rating assigned to certain covered bonds. Any rating actions taken as a result of the new ceiling will be released during the coming week.” According to Moody’s, although the risk of Greece’s euro exit “is substantial,” it is still not what the ratings agency considers its most likely scenario. Greece’s radical leftist party Syriza surprised Europe on May 6 by placing second in an inconclusive election that saw voters fed up with salary and pension cuts AFP shift their loyalties to radical parties.

MIAMI: A judge revoked bail on Friday for a Florida neighbourhood watch volunteer charged with killing an unarmed black teenager, and ordered him back to jail for misleading the court about his finances. Prosecutors had filed a motion urging the bond to be revoked and accusing George Zimmerman of deceiving the court about his access to an Internet fundraising account and about holding a second passport, obtained two weeks after the February 26 shooting. Seminole County Circuit Court Judge Kenneth Lester agreed with the request and revoked bail for Zimmerman, who was not in court at the time. He said the guard had engaged in a “material falsehood” about his finances in the run-up to his April bail hearing. Zimmerman faces second-degree murder charges in the shooting death of Trayvon Martin in Sanford, Florida. AFP

COMMENT SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2012

Solution to parking woes

Education is the answer

n a city as big as ours, one sure-shot way of solving parking problems is to have multi-tier parking lots. In a relatively small area, a lot of vehicles can be parked in a very efficient and neat way. Another aspect that can be effectively addressed this way is that of ever-increasing thefts of vehicles. Santosh Kumar Begumpet

t is when science takes a backseat that people like Mohsin takeover. Most uneducated women lack confidence and this is what is tapped by some ruthless people to their personal advantage. Education also brings in commonsense and these gullible ladies will then not get exploited. Sumaira K By email

EDITORIALS Readers’ views We invite you to write to us comments, suggestions, viewpoint or just about anything to feedback@postnoon.com or #1246, Level 3, Jubilee Casa, Road No 62, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad – 500 033 or even by way of a call on 4067 2222.

Ban is good move

he decision to ban government meetings in 5-star hotels is a welcome one. These meetings when held in an elaborate way help in many ways; they draw in a lot of investors, both local and international, but we need to also see our abilities too. Right now we are down on that front. Swamynathan V Jubilee Hills

COSTAS PITSIOS

EDITORIALS 1 NATION, 1 TEST will ease pressure The HRD ministry has decided to introduce one common engineering entrance exam — Joint Entrance Exam — for centrally-funded engineering institutions including IIT, NITs and IIITs. This is being opposed by faculty and alumni of IIT. The HRD ministry has been in consultation with various stakeholders over the last two years before taking the decision to introduce the system from 2013. The IIT council has succeeded in its demand to set papers, evaluate and prepare the merit list and also use Class XII scores for short-listing the candidates. The government has conceded to the IIT’s will to use 50 per cent each for Class XII scores and 1st level JEE to shortlist the students for 2nd level JEE and the final list will be only based on the 2nd level JEE whereas other institutes will use 40:30:30 formula for Class XII, 1st level and 2nd level JEE. The ministry’s ‘one nation, one test’ formula is laudable and considerable efforts have been taken to maintain the autonomous status of these institutions. While recognising the elite status of the IIT across the world, the stand taken by faculty and alumni to move court is perplexing. The common entrance exam will hugely reduce the pressure on students having to prepare for multiple exams after their Class XII.

WHY WE LOVE... Usain Bolt Only last Friday, one gentleman runs the 100m at the topmost level in the world at a very slow 10.04sec. Not a speed that could fetch him the Olympic medal. To those who doubt whether he is past his best, he cockily says that he stays just ahead of the pack. If you still had doubts, he stops the clock at the year’s best 9.76sec.

Joie de vivre missing Soul Curry SUMAA TEKUR

hile It was ‘shut shop’ on Friday throughout India to express our collective displeasure at the steepest petrol price hike the country has ever seen. Led by political parties, consumers everywhere were asked to put their pens down, give their vehicles a day’s rest and they, themselves, take rest to show the government how unhappy they were with the price hike. The country came to a literal halt, almost, with confusion reigning over whether one could go ahead with one’s normal routine or not. Some offices didn’t declare a holiday saying their employees were free to decide either way. Some of the buses that did try to ply on their regu-

lar routes were caught in the middle of the wrath of a mob, which was most unhappy that the bundh call was not respected. So the offending buses were stoned and set on fire to show the world that there is someone there who can wield power in these harmful ways. What the protesting political groups failed to understand each time a bundh is called, is that damage to public property is akin to damaging one’s own household article that one has paid for. Not only does taxpayer’s money go up in flames, it sends out the illogical message that we are still a country that needs to grow up. But then, that is the topic of another column. Or two. The manner in which we express our unhappiness largely determines how mature our relationships are. These relationships could be with other people, institutions, ideologies or processes. Dissent, no doubt, is an important part of change in society at the micro and macro levels. But how this is

expressed also determines whether we live in a world that is ready for progress and change. People use various channels to express displeasure and unhappiness. It could be through words, actions, non-verbal behaviour like body language, the tone of the voice, etc. In a day, we find many reasons to show that we prefer it if things were done in another way (read: our way). While protesting for change is the dharma of every individual, doing it for the wrong reasons and at the wrong times in the wrong way can all have a negative impact on the otherwise desirable process of protest. By constantly expressing this negativity, we’re drawing more energy from it and also feeding more energy back into it. To break the vicious cycle, there is a need to think differently, think creatively. It is a big enough challenge to live spiritually in the modern world that hardly gives us a minute’s rest. However, there are ways to

achieve calm. Sorting out the mess within our own heads should be the very first step in this direction. Peel off the different layers of conditioning built over the years owing to societal expectations, and ask these questions: is what I’m fighting for really worth it? Are there more important things I need to attend to at this point? Should my time be spent in the pursuit of those more important things? Aiming for simplicity and reducing distraction and negativity automatically allows us to slow down. We start to think clearly and notice the little pleasures of life around us. Watering plants, watching the sun set, walking barefoot on grass and simply doing nothing, assumes greater meaning in this stressful life — more meaning than burning down buses and causing inconvenience. It is time to get that missing joie de vivre back into our lives. The writer is a Bangalorebased commentator.

COMMENT SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2012

The legend and the fall AFP

Quirky-side-Up ARPITA BHAWAL

essel Johannes Cronje aka Hansie Cronje would have been forty-three years old had he been alive today. Words used to describe this fiery former South African cricket captain included positive, enthusiastic, inspiring, supportive, winner and great leader. And yet at the time of his untimely demise, he found himself working as a financial manager with an earthmoving equipment company. What caused the downfall of this cricketing giant? Was Cronje the victim of circumstances, or was he just a corrupt, horrible person who deserved every bit of the harsh punishment meted out to him that essentially ended his cricketing career; maybe even his life? The turn of the century saw cricket grappling with the murky world of match fixing and betting. Many big names were dragged into the scandal; while we watched open-mouthed wondering how such respectable cricketers, our heroes, could stoop so low. Either way, many cricketing careers ended, including that of Cronje. While others got away with smaller bans and fines, Cronje was the worst hit,

Urban sketches VISWAPRASAD RAJU

wherein he was banned from playing and coaching for life. In essence, he was to dissociate himself from everything even remotely connected to cricket. This had to hurt, because Cronje was playing professional cricket even in his teens. It was probably the only work he was qualified to do. He challenged his life ban, but his application was dismissed. This was done in spite of the fact that he was the first cricketer to admit guilt, and was willing to come clean. He wanted to start over. His conscience was probably stronger than those of others involved in the betting and manipulation nexus. Which is probably why the others involved breathed a sigh of relief when Cronje’s confessions were buried with him in 2002. Just like the historical figure Angulimala who was assaulted and abused by people after he had given up his crimes and was repenting as a Buddhist monk, Cronje was punished after he had already realised his folly and had decided to give up corruption. Considering that the objective of punishment is to deter the individual from indulging in illegal or immoral activities; Cronje’s life ban from cricket was a moot point. In fact, allowing him to save face would probably have saved his life, in more ways than one. Cronje had a great passion for the game and his teammates, which was unfortunately overshadowed by his love for money. Surprisingly, we are not talking

THE INTERESTING QUESTION HERE IS WHAT IS THE MENTAL PROCESS OR THE CIRCUMSTANCE THAT TEMPTS A PERSON TO INDULGE IN CORRUPTION? ARE THE BRAINS OF CORRUPT PEOPLE DIFFERENT FROM THE BRAINS OF NON-CORRUPT PEOPLE? IF SO, HOW DOES A CORRUPT PERSON REFORM? huge sums of money here. The captain was willing to throw away a game for as little as $15,000. When I was pondering this, I thought to myself, “If it were me, I wouldn’t sell out for such a paltry amount.” This thought surprised me, because it meant that there was a figure for which I would be willing to sell

out my team (considering I was a cricket team captain, or in similar position of influence). Which means, I am not above corruption either, were the opportunity to present itself to me. On reflecting further, I realised that I would be too chicken to indulge in any form of corruption. So am I living as an honest person because I am a scared cat who doesn’t have the guts to do anything risky, as opposed to being genuinely upright? If so, how many of us are scrupulous just because we are worried about the implications of being dishonest? Fear, not integrity drives us! Surely, I’m not the only one; there have to be others like me, even if they don’t admit it to themselves. We’re so happy believing we’re good people, because it makes us feel better than the guilty party, at whom we gleefully point a finger. We’re nice, we gloat. But seriously, what if there are no repercussions of doing a dark deed? Wouldn’t the temptation to give in be great? There are so many people with corruption charges against them within the state as well as nationally; not even the prime minister is spared. As for cricket, while the game is changing with the times, so is the dirty side of it getting dirtier with more names coming forward in match-fixing scandals. Are these young boys so poor that they are desperate to make money in any way; or do they feel intimidated and pressurised into participating due to

peer pressure from senior players? Are these people just like you and me, or is there some telltale sign of a potentially corrupt person? What causes the deterioration of morality? The interesting question here is what is the mental process or the circumstance that tempts a person to indulge in corruption? Are the brains of corrupt people different from the brains of noncorrupt people? If so, how does a corrupt person reform? Or does a person with a predisposition to be corrupt choose certain circumstances or professions that lend themselves to indulge in corruption? It’s a lot more fun to watch celebrities being pulled down from their pedestals rather than to think that these people are as human as the rest of us; who can be swayed by the momentary temptation. But the latter would be such a non-sensational and boring idea. It’s a lot spicier to watch scandalised as dark secrets of others are revealed to us, and we gasp in disbelief. Incriminating evidence against several bookies and players got buried with Cronje. All in all, the bloke was a good egg and my guess is that had he lived, he’d never have indulged in any illegal or immoral activity for the rest of his days. But that was not to be. One can only hope that he has found the peace that evaded him during his lifetime. The writer is a communication specialist.

Global edits

Mobile mango shop

The Guardian (UK)

The Queen's jubilee: diamond is not forever

oyal diamond jubilees do not come round often. That of Queen Elizabeth II this weekend is the first since the end of the 19th century. It seems likely, given the ages of the Queen's prospective successors, that this will be the first and last diamond jubilee which any British person alive today will witness. Because of this rarity, it is tempting to invest the event with more significance than it merits. Yet this is to misunderstand the difference between a historically remarkable event and a historically important one. This jubilee is remarkable, as that of Queen Victoria also was, and charged with enough meaning to keep commentators and academics profitably engaged for the week to come. It will be marked by great national happiness — and hopefully by good weather. But it is surely not an event of great historic significance, any more than Victoria's turned out to be. In 2012, for one thing, just as in 1897, national selfconfidence is too fragile for that — and for some of the same reasons; a distant

and divisive war, a deteriorating situation in Europe, uncertainty about the future unity of the kingdom and the shadow of recession. Any monarch who occupies the throne for 60 years becomes a symbol of continuity and of stability. It happened to Victoria. Today it has happened to Elizabeth II. For most of us, she is the only British monarch we have ever known. Both queens have become symbols partly through the sheer passage of time and partly through an institutional adeptness for adapting. The monarchy's watchword, as Robert Hardman's recent biography stresses, has been to keep doing the same thing differently. Across the course of 60 years, that strategy has been very successful. As her best biographer, the late Ben Pimlott, wrote, while it is hard to point to major achievements, it is also hard to think of mistakes. The Guardian/ICM poll last week found the monarchy enjoying record support. The Queen herself enjoys personal ratings that our despised politicians would die for. The principal public feeling this weekend is respect for a woman who has done her anachronistic and undemocratic job with tact and judgment for far longer than most of us could ever imagine.

BUSINESS SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2012

‘Dismiss piracy charges’

egaupload has filed papers in US District Court to dismiss the federal government’s online piracy case against it. “Megaupload believes that the US didn’t follow the rules,” lawyer Ira Rothken said. The US indictment alleges Megaupload and related file-sharing sites netted more than $175 million by offering pirated copies of movies and other content.

US jobs report raises fears

Users vote on policy changes

he US added a scant 69,000 jobs in May and the unemployment rate rose for the first time in almost a year, the government said, spelling more trouble for President Obama's reelection. The weak numbers signaled that the recovery in the job market has stalled, but fueled speculation that the Reserve will step in with a fresh stimulus for the economy.

acebook began letting its members vote whether they approve of privacy policy changes introduced last month. The polls opened at a “Facebook Site Governance Vote” page at the social network and will close June 8 at 9 am (1600 GMT). The vote will be considered binding if more than 30 per cent of active members take part.

From rags to riches He started his career as an office boy. But with sheer hard work M Rajgopal is now the proud owner of an online television channel INITIALLY, IT WAS DIFFIPRUDHVI RAJU K

prudhvi.k@postnoon.com

e might have started out small, but over time and with sheer hard work, M Rajgopal has scaled the corporate ladder to now become a successful entrepreneur. When he launched Hybiz.tv, an online business television channel, in November 2009, he made an investment of `24 lakh. But by 2011-2012 the company’s revenues had grown to `1.5 crore. Talking about his humble beginnings, Rajgopal says, “After writing my B.Com final year exams, my father told me, ‘Just work, success will follow. If you don’t work and wait for success, it will never come.’ His words have stuck with me ever since and have been my inspiration. So even as I awaited my results, I applied for a job as an office boy with a textile store. Subsequently, I worked with several companies like Yellowpages and media companies in various positions in the marketing department.” Given his background in marketing, his decision to launch an online business channel seems surprising. “My father ran a cyber cafe after his retirement. My wife, Swarnamukhi, helped manage operations there and one day she came to me with this business idea. She told me that the internet was rapidly growing in terms of viewing video content and the new generation was more inclined to watching things rather than read about them. This is when she suggested that we start an online business with video on demand services. It seemed like an interesting idea and I began to research its viability,” he says. Rajgopal then put forth the idea to his clients. “If you place an ad, it only remains in public memory for a day. So why not maintain an archive of videos of various businesses in the City? People could watch whatever they

CULT TO GET INVITED TO PRESS CONFERENCES AS PEOPLE WERE UNSURE ABOUT THE AUTHENTICITY OF AN ONLINE NEWS CHANNEL Number of crew: 12 Archives: More than 50,000 business videos Employees: 70 Number of visits to the site (traffic): 12 lakh per month Number of videos watched across the platforms: 6 lakh videos per month Turnover for 2010-2011: `7.6 lakh Turnover for 2011-2012: `1.55 crore Margins: Around 25 per cent wanted at any point of time,” he explains. Rajgopal launched his business with an investment of `24 lakh, which he got by selling his piece of land and from the PF he received after quitting his job. “We started the company with two employees in a car garage in August 2009 and by November we officially launched the business,” he says. It was not a smooth sailing though. “Initially, I faced a few challenges with PR agencies inviting us for press conferences. They doubted the authenticity of the online channel. I worked as a reporter for the channel from 2009 to 2010 to create a base for it. Soon the agencies realised the power of the internet, when I started sending them a link of the press conference videos. It was

easy for them to send this to their client and share it on social media platforms for maximum coverage. Today we get plenty of invitations and we exclusively cover business events. This shows the credibility we have built for ourselves in the market over the years,” he says. “We generate revenues through advertisements and through paid coverage, where businesses pay for the video shoots. We charge nominal prices for exclusive shoots to recover our costs. The business can use this video across the new and social media platforms to convey their brand message. Even major media agencies are placing ads with us based on the traffic our channel sees. Advertising revenue will also continue to grow, with internet advertising growing at a rate of 450 per cent every year,” he says. The company, which took off quite positively has almost lost `50 lakh by entering 12 districts of the State in 2010. “I used to pump the revenue I generate here in to the districts. Even though, my team has covered a lot of business events, there is very poor response from viewers. Internet penetration and usage is far lower in towns and districts. After a few months, I have decided to pull back the crew from all the districts except in Vizag. However, we were able to bring the company back on track with high revenues last year. The company now has plans to expand to 10 major cities of the country and aims to reach `10 crore revenues in the next two years. It has already started operations in Vizag, Bangalore and Chennai. It is also planning to expand to Mumbai and New Delhi by July this year. On the personal front Rajgopal enjoys travelling, going for long drives with his wife and daughter and relishing the mutton biryani his wife cooks on weekends. “My family loves beach vacations so, I make it a point to take them to beaches once in a while to unwind,” he smiles.

MOTORING SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2012

Toyota plans 8 compact cars

Volkswagen’s ‘Comfort Coupe’

hink of it as something of a poor man's Mercedes CLS; although for the updated model, poor is clearly a relative term. Volkswagen’s CC (Comfort Coupe) comes with a makeover three years after the CC was first launched in South Africa. Changes can be seen in the front end where the sedan swaps its smiley face for the less distinctive but neater default VW front.

oyota Motor said it would roll out eight compact car models tailored for emerging markets by 2015 in an attempt to catch up to front-runners. Toyota, which lost the crown as the world's top automaker last year, is looking to reduce its dependence on the mature North American, European and Japanese markets.

Mazda, Fiat join forces

azda Motor and Fiat will join forces to make new versions of their most famous sports cars, the MX-5 and the Alfa Romeo Spider, possibly paving the way for a deeper alliance. A joint venture will not include any equity tie-up but joins a long line of partnerships aiming to share research and development costs and keep prices competitive in a tough market.

The e-car paradox

INTERNATIONAL

MARKET FOR ELECTRIC CARS

TESLA ROADSTER: The first car in the world to power itself using a lithium ion battery. It is also one of the first cars to make it over 300 kilometres on a full charge. The coup de grace can go 0100kmph in 3.9 seconds.

While India seems to just have warmed up to electric and hybrid cars, elsewhere Hydrogen is the new fuel. It might only be a matter of time before we take the ‘Hy’ road. Until then, take a peek into the electric car market Siddharth TSS and Osama Salman

Famous electric car owners

feedback@postnoon.com

George Clooney Tango T-600 Jay Leno Tesla Roadster and a Vintage Barker Electric Leonardo Di Caprio Tesla Roadster Alyssa Milano Nissan Leaf

ou can see this sign at petrol pumps — “Please don’t smoke here. Your life may be worthless but petrol certainly isn’t!” Well, that sure explains the worth of petrol, considering the ridiculous rise in its prices. Forget petrol, did you know there was a time when India had its own electric car run entirely on electricity? It was the Reva. It saved you thousands in petrol, and if you ever owned one, you’d never care about the rising cost of fuel.

THE REVA

Reva, this tiny toy-looking machine as it’s called, was launched to defy the rules of traditional driving, and perhaps aimed at changing the scape of the roads. In the initial stages, this electric car was criticised for its size and shape, but now people have understood the potential of using electricity as a fuel and its economical and environmental advantages. The Reva can shell out a commendable 18 PS at 1300rpm and a torque of 68Nm. This two-door hatchback can charge itself up to 80% in 2.5 hours and consumes 9-10 units of electricity on a 100 per cent charge. This amount roughly translates to say `24.5 in terms of electricity consumption. So this makes us wonder, how advantageous electric cars are, or even how practical they are for everyday use. Well, for starters, you need less frequent maintenance. Electric engines don't need the oil changes and other regular maintenance that conventional engines need to stay running. That can add up to significant savings over time. Even the cleanliness is more. Leaving aside the environmental benefits, which are considerable, an all-electric car means freedom from a substance that can be really messy: oil. However, there are disadvantages to an

all-electric car as well. Current battery technology can't yet match the energy stored in a regular old tank of unleaded petrol. That means in the near future, electric cars will have significantly less travel range when compared to fuel cars. And then there are the expenses. Unless you want to wait eight hours or more to "fill up your tank," you'll want a high- speed charger installed in your home, potentially adding thousands to your electriccar price tag. Then there is the battery uncertainty. Just like the batteries in your iPod or laptop, the large, expensive batteries in an electric car will inevitably run down. The question is, how will they perform in the real world, under realworld weather and traffic conditions.

HYBRID

ELECTRIC

CARS

Most hybrid cars still rely on combustion of fossil fuels for their motivation. But the implementation of regenerative braking technology in Hybrid Electric Vehicles is another plus point. Whereas, in electric cars a battery that can store enough electricity equalling a

tank of fuel is big, heavy and prohibitively expensive. But electricity can be attained easier than Hydrogen fuel cells.

CHEVY VOLT: This plug-in hybrid vehicle combines the power of an internal combustion engine and two on board electric motors capable of going from 0-100kmph in 10 seconds.

NISSAN LEAF: The design for this car is stylised by its characteristic V shape. The car can pull itself through for 117km on full charge. Another feature of this car is its headlights as they consume 50 per cent lesser power than regular halogen lamps.

TECHNOLOGY SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2012

WEBSITE OF THE WEEK

APP OF THE WEEK Gamesheep

www.gamesheep.com This with its easy to load and simple games is a good way to kill time and stress. one game that is a must while here is ‘Mad doctors.’ We’re sure you would be hooked to it!

SANA

Microsoft Internet Explorer

s much as it pains for a Firefox user to admit, Google Chrome, as of May 2012, is the most popular web browser in the world according to StatCounter. It also suggested that Google Android’s built-in browser is now the most popular programme on mobile phones. Regardless of Chrome’s popularity, it is quite evident that Google has managed to produce a very efficient application which is extremely fast, easier to use and one can customise it using the different themes available. It also takes in lesser memory per tab and even if the tab crashes, you can still continue with your other browsing activities. Of course it doesn’t have as many plugins as Firefox but it reduces the hassle of updating your browser as there are automatic updates.

hat was probably the most widely used browser a decade ago is facing the heat from Chrome and Firefox with its newest version 9, smarting other browsers with epic new changes. It has been resurrected from recycle bins and stands at a respectable position, earning a sweet spot in this legendary league. It takes its inspiration from Chrome and combines the search box within the location box making navigation to sites and viewing of browsing history, a simple task.

Popularity meter

Google Chrome – 1

THE B AD

n Narrow course design restricts freedom n Getting stuck behind scenery mid-race.

Browser wars

MIRZA

Google Chrome

n Pleasing aesthetic n A real sense of speed.

ooked offers personalised game recommendations and advanced search features. This Android app provides recommendations for more than 200,000 games. So find the best possible games through Hooked .

With Yahoo! launching its newest web browser, Axis, Google knocking out new versions of Chrome at an alarming rate, Firefox and Microsoft are hanging on for dear life. So whose side are you on? COMPILED

VIDEOGAME REVIEW THE GOOD

MAD RIDERS

2 Mozilla Firefox A

lot of people swear by Firefox when it all boils down to using an efficient and creative web browser. As of May 2012, Firefox has approximately 25% of worldwide usage share of web browsers, making it the third most widely used web browser. It has long been the head of the Mozilla browser family and even with Chrome in the market, it still remains the prime rival for Microsoft’s Internet Explorer. With a massive number of plugins, it allowed geeks to create, add and share their own content: extensions (their main attraction) and themes

4 Apple Safari W

ith Safari launching its newest version 5, not much has changed except for some neat features. With a slight improvement in performance, Safari is still touted to be the best browser for MAC. It’s lack of Aero support brings it down on the list for a Windows user as it is comparatively slower than the other browsers. The best feature yet in v5 is the Safari Reader, an adaptation of bookmarklet “Readability”. While scoring 100% in Acid3 test, surfing has been a near pleasure on Safari.

Mozilla Firefox – 2

5 Opera O

nce a paid software, Opera till date is the most feature rich browser ever. With a candy interface combined with speed, security and lightness, it gives us a rich browsing experience. Opera was one of the pioneers of tabbed browsing but with the introduction of Tab stacking, working with multiple tabs has become a whole lot easier. Despite the fact that it offers a whole lot of interesting and pioneering features, Opera does not have an extensive backup from the user community— unlike other top browsers such as IE, Safari, Chrome and Firefox. Even though it is slowly losing ground in the desktop environment, it still has a good hold in the mobile space.

Internet Explorer – 3

Apple Safari – 4

Opera is not really a popular desktop browser but is the best option for mobiles. About 65% of smart phone users avail Opera on their cell phones.

ANIMAL KINGDOM SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2012

PET NEWS Monarch butterflies

Paralysed rats walk

An analysis led by Emory University biologists finds that eastern and western groups of monarchs are genetically mixed. Their research,suggests that environmental factors may be the key to the butterflies' choice of winter homes

earing a robotic harness, paralysed rats have been made to walk again, according to a new study albeit while stimulated by judicious jolts of electricity and chemicals. A technique which might hold hope for some disabled people.

IMPORTANT NUMBERS

Know your dog

he Deer hound was bred to course Deer to the dense Scottish Highlands. It has a coat that is harsh and protects it from the cold. It comes in fawn, red, red brindle, blue grey, or black brindle colour. This dog is generally seen in the eastern India.

CATS AND DOGS The Animal Care Clinic 040-2335 2474 Pet’s World Dog Clinic 98856 46259 Blue Cross of Hyderabad 040-3298 9858, 23544355/ 5523 Vet-N-Pet 040-6553 9535, 93463 05890 Bluplus Pet Clinic 040-2712 1739, 2716 2636 Sri Sai Pet Clinic

040-2779 7458, 9848645350 Claws & Paws 98662 82772 All Creatures Animals Clinic 040-2773 0885 BIRDS Govt Veterinary Hospital 040-2331 9656, 2753 5755 Bird Watcher’s Society 040-2355 6166 Friends of Birds9391048315 SNAKES Friends of Snakes 8374233366

ANGELIKA WARMUTH/AFP

Malgorzata Szymanska swims with dog Quaniit at the WuffVital dog hotel in Jarplund, northern Germany.

PAW FRIENDLY

For some pet owners, nothing is too good for their beloved animals. A massage, a leisurely swim and a wonderful time— dog hotels offer this and much more

lot of pet owners nowadays prefer to take their pets along with them while on holiday. And once you have spent that time racing on the beach with your pet, it’s time for rejuvenation. You sure could do with an invigorating massage but what of your pet? Well, WuffVital dog hotel in Jarplund, northern Germany, has a solution. The hotel offers day and night care for the animals, dog swimming and massages for the dogs and their owners. Some pampering huh? And the positives, you get to have fun with your pet as well.

BOOKS SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2012

SHORT READS Title: Home Author: Toni Morrison Publisher: Knopf Frank Money is an angry, selfloathing veteran of the Korean War who, after traumatic experiences on the front lines, finds himself back in racist America with more than just physical scars.

Title: Trapeze Author: Simon Mawer Publisher: Other Press A smart, well-paced spy thriller and a memorably cunning heroine, based on the extraordinary true story of French-speaking British women recruited to go undercover in Nazi-occupied France during World War.

Title: I suck at girls Author: Justin Halpern Publisher: IT Books I Suck at Girls is full of his dad's patented brand of wisdom. But it's also full of new characters just as funny as his dad—from his brother, who provides insights into wedding night rituals.

Title: A night like this Author: Julia Quinn Publisher: Avon Anne Wynter’s job as governess to three highborn young ladies can be a challenge. She finds herself hiding in a closet full of tubas and tending to the wounds of the Earl of Winstead.

Love is in the air

The Statistical Probability of Love of First Sight makes you yearn wistfully for the warm fluttery feeling of first love and the magic of happy endings

PADMINI C

padmini.c@postnoon.com

o, a book titled The Statistical Probability of Love of First Sight is not going to be the first pick of any self-respecting bibliophile, I’ll give you that. But before you dismiss it out of hand, all I ask of you is a fair trial, which you have to concede, is every book’s fundamental right. In my opening statement, let me place on record — the plot is guilty as charged. It is the very definition of ‘been there, done that.’ Hadley Sullivan is a claustrophobic 17-year-old, who having missed her flight (by four minutes), is stuck in JFK en route to her father’s wedding to a woman she’s never met. Just

when everything seems hopeless, cue in cute, wry, funny, chivalrous Oliver. Also, her seat mate on the flight. Somewhere over the Atlantic that night, in the warm glow of cabin lighting, love happens. But in the harsh glare of the morning sun streaming through Heathrow, they part, unsure of themselves and their feelings. With no phone numbers or last names exchanged. Will Hadley survive her father’s wedding? What’s Oliver trying to hide? Will they see each other again? Was it really love? You have to read the book to find out. But no, the killing suspense is not the reason this book deserves a chance. Neither is it, the originality of the story. It is rather the endearing sense of familiarity — the thrill of meeting someone interesting on a flight, the strange isolated intimacy of night, shy unfurling of facts in conversation, and the

first rush of feelings and a chance to relive the experience that makes it worth the read. It’s in the telling of a story — even if only a familiar one — that makes all the difference. And there’s where Jennifer E Smith scores. She brings out all the innocence of adolescence, capturing perfectly the fearless fashion in which you offer your

heart to a stranger without an iota of self-preservation. A parallel thread, of a child stuck in a broken home between lovable

Name The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight Author Jennifer E Smith Pages 238 Publisher Hachette

parents, adds the much-needed gravitas to the story and an interesting dimension to Hadley. This is my closing statement. To remember a time before relationships got so complicated and we became so cynical, read this book. To remember what a happy ending looks like without feeling silly about it, read this book. It may not be the most sparkling book you’ve ever read, but it will be a book that might just make you start teach to hope again. And, it is most definitely the book to pick to read on a flight. Because, did you know? As Oliver says, “People who meet in airports are seventy-two per cent more likely to fall for each other than people who meet anywhere else.”

Short on facts, high on adrenaline Arun Koshy Philip arun.k@postnoon.com

cross-border intrusion by a Pakistani patrol and their actions in an Indian village trigger a chain of events that escalate into a full-fledged war between the nuclear armed neighbours. The United States finds itself in a tricky situation as China's shadow darkens the skies over the conflict zone. Former Delta operative Dewey Andreas is working in an

Australian ranch, away from the dangerous elements he once fought — but unknown to him, foes from the past are hot on his trail. Even before he realises,

Name Coup d'état Author Ben Coes Pages 468 Publisher Pan Books

Andreas finds himself in the thick of action and on a mission to avert a nuclear war in the Indian Subcontinent. The author has written a piece of fiction that would light up the day for Chuck Norris but disappoint hard-core action fans. All I have to say is that a simple Google search would have told Ben Coes that the Indian government structure is not what he has portrayed in the book. True, the American hero has to save the day — but the overdose of his skills kills the

enjoyability of the plot for anyone with average understanding of warfare. If common sense had prevailed, the author would have realised that his hero would have died several times over in the course of the story. The book would make a good read for the hardcore American nationalist, but falls flat in its ability to provide a realistic picture. A little more effort and homework on the area where the action unfolds would have helped.

BOOKS SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2012

History comes alive Victoria Hislop’s The Thread brings alive several forgotten aspects of Greek history, when it was torn apart by World War II and civil war HEMANTH KUMAR

hemanth.k@postnoon.com

n her third novel, Victoria Hislop (of The Island and The Return) weaves a story of love and loss in the backdrop of two wars which tear apart the Thessaloniki throughout the 20th century. Much has been written about the rise and fall of Greece in the early years of the millenium; however, Victoria Hislop throws great insight into what had happened in the country since the outbreak of the first world war. The Thread is the story about one such family which withstands many struggles to keep the memories of its and the city’s existence alive. The story begins in 1917 when a massive fire devastates the Greek city Thessaloniki where Jews, Christians and Muslims live in perfect harmony. Thessaloniki is far away from Athens and is a thriving hub for trade and cultural exchange. Dimitri Komninos and his family are forced to live in a simple house after the fire. Five years later, Katerina Sarafogolu migrates to Thessaloniki after her home is destroyed by the Turkish army. Here she meets Dimitri and the two become great friends and as they grow up, they realize that they are in love with each other. Katreina grows up to become the finest seamstress in the city creating beautiful gowns for the rich ladies and soon she marries Dimitri. However, fate has different plans for this perfect couple and the residents of the city whose bond is tested time

and again with wars and cultural strife. Victoria Hislop succeeds in bringing alive the city’s various facets. Every detail of the city’s residents daily lives is so well narrated that it fuels your imagination. What’s interesting about The Thread is the political con-

Name The Thread Author Victoria Hislop Pages 400 Publisher Hachette

text in which the story is set in. There’s hardly a moment in the lives of Dimitri and Katerina where the overwhelming circumstances in which they live in don’t bother them about their future. That’s one of the reasons why the couple send both their children abroad. However, the duo have such a strong bond with the city they lived almost their entire lives that they never considered to migrate to the UK or the US despite repeated pleas from their son and daughter. Cut to 2007, when Dimitri and Katerine narrate their story to their grandson Mitsos, we are told that their memories are too strong. ‘Even if we were given as many diamonds as there are drops in that ocean, there is nothing which would induce us to leave. We will stay in Thessaloniki until we die,” Katerina declares, when her grandson asks her why they didn’t migrate. The Thread is heart-warming and devastating in equal measure. It’s a story which is bound to make a huge impression if you relate to the gravity of the situation in which Dimitri and Katerine had had to make decisions in.

A dream fantasy Fast-paced, to the point, and interesting Bhavneet Singh feedback@postnoon.com

his book is the dawn of the new wave Indian writing. The book is set in an imagined world reminiscent of post Vedic India. The book defies the typical Indian style of writing and has a very complex and a multi layered style of writing. In short, it is the story of Arihant, the protagonist of this book, who has to destroy Aushij, the Lord of Maya. The book starts off with the flashback where Aushij was tricked by Arihant’s siblings into a prison of dreams in order to save the world. Despite being in the prison, he manages to wreck havoc on the real world and thus Arihant takes up the challenge to destroy him. The story from here is his journey on how he reaches the Lord of Maya and destroys him. The book has the potential to teleport you into another world. Since the journey of Arihant in this book is in the dreams, sometimes the narrative becomes so confusing that it becomes hard to understand if he is dreaming or is he in the real world. According to what Sangeeta says in her blog, Arihant has the universal appeal of the super hero who, even as he grows to fit the prophesy of his incredible destiny, never outgrows the emotional vulnerability of his humanity, his sense of perspective, and his sense of humour. Arihant appeals to the invincible spirit in all of us, for he shares with us his strength and gives us the gift

Name Jaal Author Sangeeta Bahadur Pages 460 Publisher Pan Macmillian of hope and dignity to face the vicissitudes of life. But a drawback of the book is that it has a very slow start to it. This is definitely not the kind of a book you would like to read as a newbie. There are a few things that make the book stand out. The first one is Sangeeta Bahadur’s choice of words. There are many Hindi, Sanskrit and mythological terms used in the book. This works in a very positive way as it adds to the entire set-up of the story. The book scores on the visual description. The character of Arihant and his struggle demand a special mention here. The effective choice of words and strong expressions make Arihant, a character that we just cannot forget. Apart from these things, the idea in itself is unique as the protagonist battles it out in the dreams.

WHAT’S SELLING Walden’s best in fiction

Walden’s best in fiction

New York Times’ best in fiction

New York Times’ best in non-fiction

n Revolution 2020 by Chetan Bhagat

n Great by Choice by Collins And Hansen

n Stolen Prey by John Sandford

n The Amateur by Edward Klein

n Micro By Michael Crichton

n Journey by Brandon Bays

n The Passage of Power by Robert A Caro

n Secret Of The Nagas by Amish Tripati

n Most And More by Voice Ra

n 11th Hour by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro.

n Time of my Life by Cecelia Ahern

n Target 3 Billion by APJ Abdul Kalam

n Lethal by Sandra Brown

n Confessions Of A Serial Dieter by Kalli Purie

n Deadlocked by Charlaine Harris. n The Columbus Affair by Steve Berry n Calico Joe by John Grisham

n The Art of Intelligence by Henry A Crumpton n My Cross to bear by Gregg Allman with Alan Light n Most talkative by Andy Cohen

WOMEN SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2012

APPS OF THE WEEK Pedometer: Aside from tracking your steps, it also allows you to set a target and keep a diary to achieve your goals. This is one app you must have

iStylist: iStylist will help you find skirts, dresses, jeans, etc. that will flatter your figure. Who wants an expensive personal stylist when you can have this on your phone?.

Chanel: With the Chanel app, any chic geek can get news, photos, videos and product info, as well as watch fashion shows, see the latest Chanel lineup and follow the latest Chanel news.

DEEPAK DESHPANDE

Off the court Years ago, when her parents gifted her a badminton racket, little did they know they were shaping her future. Today, she is representing the country for the first time at the upcoming Olympics. Meet Ashwini Ponnappa

INDIRA ATLURI

indira.a@postnoon.com

o one of the most popular gyms in the city comes a young girl, who does her workouts like any other fitness enthusiast present there. She is diligent with her routine, barely ever complains, and mostly seems to love being incognito. But she is not your average girl — she trains for a reason — she shoulders the responsibility of representing India at the Olympics set to take place in London this year. She is Ashwini Ponnappa, India’s charge for badminton. After striking up a conversation with her, I found a really down-to-earth woman whose interest lies in performing better. What in the first place triggered off her affair with the racquet I ask her, and she tells me, “I was too young to decide anything really. But being a hyperactive kid, I took away a lot of my mum’s time from my brother who was a baby then. To keep me occupied, I was given the racket, and that is how my affair began.” Obviously, for a girl who has won many tournaments since then, and for who, a constant pressure to perform is the order of the day, how does she deal with it ? “I think I get the right amount of attention — not too less, and not too much, and I like it that way. But the last few months have been pretty stressful, and sometimes, I do get snappy. But when I go out with my friends for dinners or to the movies, I am more relaxed and ready to take on more.” As she sips on her green tea, she recollects her child-

All About Eve

MADHU JOSHI

hood as being the best anyone could ever ask for. She says, “I never felt differentiated as a kid. My parents never distinguished me from my brother, and I think that is the greatest place any kid can grow up in. I am truly a lucky girl. Around me, I see women progressing in all fields, and I think they should get better in all walks of life. And am sure that we are on the right path. Like any other girl, Ashwini loves watching movies whenever she gets the time. She says, “I recently watched The Notebook movie and just fell in love with it! Rachel McAdams is a fantastic actress. I also loved The Vow, also starring Rachel McAdams – and she was fantastic in that too. I enjoy the easy romantic comedies.” Living in Hyderabad is an experience like no other says Ashwini. “Four years down, I have a few friends here, and thankfully get some time off my work. The roads here are much better than they are in Bengaluru. But sometimes, I notice that people thrive on ‘connections’ to get their work done.

CV First Job: With ONGC to play their tournaments. Motto: I learnt this in school, and it remains what I follow ever since, “Do unto others as you would have others do unto you.” Last book read: Haven’t read one in a long time! Last Movie: The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel

The New Age Sati

Sometimes, there is a sense of unrealistic living which I don’t understand. After all, it is not about how much you earn, or what kind of car you drive that determines who you are.” A fighter she maybe on the field, but off it, she lives the

simple life of a normal girl — a trait so charming that an hour later, at the end of our conversation, I forget the sports star that she is, after letting you peek into the life of a girl with hopes, dreams and aspirations, just like any other.

used to frequently read about ‘Sati’ — a woman, irrespective of her age, sacrificing her life on her husband’s death. Today, in this century of progressive India, we are witnessing a ‘new era Sati’. Here, she does not die with her man, but succumbs to his family’s decision of not letting her live beyond a few months. The number of girl child deaths in our country are no more just statistical data to be analysed and concluded with a reports. The mission to save the girl child now needs to be our daily agenda, completely focused towards bringing a positive change. A day’s revolt, dharnas and slogans can be effective, might even bring about media attention as well. But for how long? Its effect may last for a month or so and then what? What medicine do we need then which will have a long term effect? The prescription is ‘empowerment’. We can define empowerment as a process of awareness, effective decision-making power and control leading to transformative action. Most importantly it involves at the psychological level women’s ability to assert themselves. Every women needs to be empowered and feel empowered. From a very young age, a girl needs to be instilled with a belief that she is capable of achieving anything and overcome challenges in her own capacity. Every mother needs to understand the importance of sowing the seed of awareness, confidence and self-belief in her daughter. It basically starts and ends with a woman playing the lead role to eliminating this deadly disease. Education and work opportunities have shown us the way a woman is going forward but these are form the later part of the main story. We have witnessed several educated women who have succumbed to their family decisions and allow such atrocities to happen to them. So, the change needs to start from the beginning, in our minds. The new age Sati will need no prohibition act to stop the practice, it will just need a step from woman herself, to empower herself and make the change.

SPOTLIGHT SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2012

DEEPAK DESHPANDE

Off to a flying start

Showstopper

Doyens of Tollywood graced the audio launch of the movie All the Best at Hotel Daspalla on Friday DEEPAK DESHPANDE

Ramanaidu

Shraddha Das at the launch of Weaves lifestyle exibition at Imperial Gardens.

DEEPAK DESHPANDE

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s here!

Srikanth & J D Chakravarthi

Dasari Narayana Rao

Kota Srinivasa Rao

Shruti Hassan unveils the much-awaited Samsung Galaxy S III at GVK One. Ashok

Krishna Bhagavan

Uppala Ramesh

Bramhaji

RELATIONSHIPS SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2012

Gestures speak louder than actions!

I AM ALL EARS

am 28-year-old man and work in an software company. Of late, a girl has been trying to put me down in front of the boss and as a result my morale has taken a beating. My boss too supports her, despite the fact that she is wrong most of the time and an inexperienced in her work. Please help.

cientists have discovered that actual actions on objects, such as physically stirring a spoon in a cup, have less of an impact on the brain’s understanding of speech than simply gesturing as if stirring a spoon in a cup. This is surprising because there is less visual information contained in gestures than in actual actions on objects. In short: Less may actually be more when it comes to gestures and actions in terms of understanding language.

Dear perplexed kid, How old are you again? I think it’s time you realised that in every office you have these kind of people, who live only to get into the boss’ good books. It requires them to be manipulative and evil. Next time the kid does that put her in her place by explaining in really polite terms that her game is up. Be sure to steer clear from her and try and get the boss to see where the hard work is coming from.

MATTERS OF FAITH Dating someone whose belief system is the opposite of yours seems like an obstacle hard to overcome. But is it really?

SAMEENA KENAZ

feedback@postnoon.com

ating a believer or an atheist can be quite the test for most of us. The more dominating person in the relationship will end up converting the other, which can be quite taxing not only on the person, but also on the relationship. But, how much is religion even discussed in a relationship? “My partners religious belief is hardly an issue so as long as my partner is understanding about it,” says Krishna Bharani, a agnostic Journalism graduate. A believer, Bhavya Giri seconds Krishna and says, “Nothing in the extreme will do. As long as my partner doesn’t force his views on me, things can work out.” However, some have very staunch views, “I would not date a believer. It defines and repre-

5 things that’ll help Talking it out: It might sound like stating the obvious but we’ll say it anyway. Communicate, communicate, communicate. There’s no easier way to solve an issue than to have an open mind and talk it out. Establish ground rules that both of you are comfortable with. Stick to them Mutual Respect: Irrespective of whether you share their belief system or not, remember that everyone is as entitled to their opinion as you are to yours. Faith is a deeply personal issue, so don’t hold it out against them. Unconditionality: Differences of opinion are common in any relationship. And this should be no different. The important thing to remember is to accept a person as they come, with no conditions. Prioritise: There are a million other things in a relationship that are more important. So if you can agree to disagree on this and give each other space, it will become a non-issue. Compromise: Note that any source of conflict is really only as big as bad as you want it to be. Find a middle path and you will be just fine!

sents a basic contradiction between the rational and irrational parts of his personality,” says Adithya Srinivas, an atheist and a student of Arts. Taking a more moderate stance, Prerna Vazir, a digital analyst says, “I wouldn’t mind dating someone with opposite beliefs. If he does not have issues with my faith being different from his then I’m okay with dating him. But, of course religious faith is important somewhere down the line.” Bhavya, however wonders if such people can be found. “Whatever your partner’s beliefs are, they will try to influence and convince you. It’s human nature,” she muses. So then, it’s up to us whether we choose to be influenced by the views of our partners. But, trying to bar something your better-half is trying to tell you can land you in a mess, sometimes even lead you to go your separate ways. So is religion a match maker or breaker? Most people prefer

I wouldn’t mind dating someone with opposite beliefs. If he does not have issues with my faith being different from his then I’m okay with dating him. Prerna Vazir not discussing matters of religion in a relationship unless they plan on getting married. Ranvijay Singh, a freelance photographer says he wouldn’t

Beliefs differ from person to person but that must not stop one from loving someone provided they too hold the same respect for your beliefs Ratna Bharti mind dating an atheist so long as she doesn’t impose her ideals on him, he thinks it shouldn’t matter even if you want to take the relationship further,

“As long as she lets me follow my beliefs, there will never be a problem.” “Well, I think beliefs differ from person to person but that must not stop one from loving someone provided the other person too holds the same amount of respect for your beliefs,” says Ratna Bharti, a student of Mass Communication. All of this brings us to an inevitable query, how much does faith even matter in a relationship? “Faith is the least of the problems in a relationship. There are so many other things that you need to take into account,” says Suriki Sen, a BA student. So, the solution that seems to be doing the rounds is ‘the principal of non-interference’. As long as the views of one partner are not forced onto another the relationship can survive and sustain rather effortlessly. After all, as the saying goes, ‘Love conquers all’. Here’s saying amen to that!

CINEMA SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2012

T-TOWN TWEETIES @Tashu_02

@snehaullalheart

@Actor_Siddharth

@LakshmiManchu

Lil bit cold n throat infection remaining but that will settle gradually... I can finally step out of my house today... Feels gud... :-)

Never make urslf a cigarette,so that ppl pay to buy u,burn n then crush u Make urself a DRUG n Let them DIE to get u.

Chashme Baddoor comes out August 31st. Midnights Children expected end October.Nandini Reddy and Vetrimaaran’s films also out.

Wishing the entire team of #rowdyrathode a super super duper super hit. Let’s all get dinchaku dinchak dinchak I say …

@PriyaWajAnand

@shraddhadas43

@actor_Nikhil

@actressanjjanaa

Had an awesome time taking in d beautiful scenery at Nariman Point! Highlight being d horse carriage ride! Mumbai is breathtaking.

I finally will step foot into my new home today,just reached Mumbai!! Happiness galore!!

Thanks 4 the birthday wishes guys...Thanks 2 the tv channels 4 airing special birthday wishes 4 me... U all made June 1st special 4 me.

I hav honestly sowed d seeds of my hardwork, jus waiting for d results,my nxt baby sagar my nxt kannada film rel in July !!

Ravi Teja, Kajal team up again

he search for the lead heroine in Ravi Teja’s upcoming film Saar Osthara has officially ended. Kajal is all set to play Ravi Teja’s romantic interest in the film and this is the second time that the duo is teaming up for a Telugu film. Last year, they had acted together in Veera, which failed to click at the box office. In the past,

Trisha and Amala Paul were in talks with Parasuram, the director of the film, to play the lead role; however, after the two walked out of the film citing lack of dates, Kajal was roped in. Another actress will be finalised in a week. Ashwini Dutt is producing the film and Thaman is scoring the music. The film will commence from June 16 in Ooty.

That sinking feeling Adhinayakudu is all about the sacrifices the protagonist makes to uphold his family’s honour. Hemanth Kumar hemanth.k @postnoon.com

dhinayakudu is the perfect example of what can go wrong with a film, despite having a reasonably good script and star cast. The political context in which the film is set lays a good foundation for an high voltage drama; however, too many cliched scenes in the first half play spoilsport. Directed by Parachuri Murali, the film stars Balakrishna in triple roles for the first time in his career. The film begins with the assassination of Harishchandra Prasad (Balakrishna). Fifteen years later, we are introduced to Bobby, played once again by Balakrishna, who’s a professional killer. He’s a man of principle and vows to never kill innocent civilians. One fine day, he gets a contract to kill Rama Krishna Prasad (Balakrishna), but soon Bobby comes to know that he’s in fact his father. Else-

Movie: Adhinayakudu Cast: Nandamuri Balakrishna, Lakshmi Rai, Jayasudha Director: Parachuri Murali Rating: where a top politician, played by Kota Srinivasa Rao, has been plotting to kill Rama Krishna Prasad. Who’s Rama Krishna Prasad? Why was Harishchandra Prasad assassinated? This forms the rest of the story. One of the major problems with the film is that Parachuri Murali saves the best part of the film for the second half. As a result, the proceedings in the first half begin to test your patience right from the beginning. Except for a couple of action sequences, nothing else, which includes the romantic track between Balakrishna and Lakshmi Rai and comedy scenes featuring Brahmanandam hold the attention.

The second half begins on a high note with Rama Krishna Prasad (Balakrishna) taking centrestage. If it wasn’t for those bizarre costumes and wigs, perhaps we would have concentrated a lot more on the dialogues and the emotional content. The scenes featuring Harishchandra Prasad (Balakrishna) and his son, Rama Krishna Prasad deserve an applause. Balakrishna comes up with an excellent performance as the politician. Kalyani Malik’s music and background score is decent. If only Parachuri Murali had stayed honest with the actual story he had in mind, Adhinayakudu would have been a much better film. The violence and cinematic liberties in the second half are justified, but it takes too much time to reach the actual crux of the film. It’s a pity that a potential subject like this ended up with very few things to boast about in the end.

Arya, Anushka off to Georgia

rya, Anushka starrer Irandam Ulagam will soon be shot in Georgia. Selvaraghavan, the director of the film, has planned a marathon 65 days schedule in the East European country which is fast becoming one of the hottest destinations for film production. Recently, Ajith’s Billa 2 was also shot in Georgia. Irandam Ulagam was earlier shot in Hyderabad and Goa and there was

a buzz that it might be shot in Brazil; however, Selvaraghavan chose to shoot a major part of the film in Georgia. Anushka is playing a dual role in this film which is simultaneously being made in Telugu and Tamil. The Telugu version has been named as Brindavanam lo Nandakumarudu. Arya, Anushka and rest of the crew will fly to Georgia on June 15.

CINEMA SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2012

B-TOWN TWEETIES @MadhuriDixit1

@AnupamPkher

@udaychopra

@sandymridul

Morning everyone! How r u? My schedule is going to pick up... Take a look at the trailer we made on the website under the dance tab.

On my way to Hay-on-Wye literary festival in U.K. Supposed to be the biggest festival of books. Happy, honoured and humbled.

Its official, Im the greatest dad Ok Fine! Maybe not the greatest Ok Fine! I’m average at best Ok Fine! I don’t even have kids#OkFineTweets.

In a country where civic sense is lacking miserably what right do we have to drive fancy cars?!

@NeilNMukesh

@bipsluvurself

@kjohar25

@shreyaghoshal

Shot an intense fight sequence last night choreographed by me. Turned out strong. I’m happy :)

Nw IIFA singapore would love to meet my fans and ppl who give me endless love frm Singapore!Keep tweeting ur info!

Huge congratulations to shabina khan, SLB,team UTV,@sonakshisinha, @akshaykumar For roaring ROWDY RATHORE!

Quite a roller coaster day. Good to know that there is at least a friend who knows what’s going on before even u know.

Cheap thrills What happens when a Tollywood superhit film is remade with a Bollywood Khiladi? You get a rib-tickling, action packed entertainer SANA MIRZA

sana.m@postnoon.com

or those who have watched the superhit film in Telugu titled Vikramarkudu, Rowdy Rathore won’t come as much of a surprise if not as much for the story but for Akshay’s crazy action antics. The protagonist of the film is a charming conman, Shiva (Akshay Kumar) who with his slick ways romances every woman in a radius of 10 metres. However, what he is not prepared for is falling in love with Priya (Sonakshi Sinha) at one of his robbing venues. Their love story starts to blossom when in walks another girl, Neha who Shiva seems to have no memory of.

Movie: Rowdy Rathore Cast: Akshay Kumar, Sonakshi Sinha, Nasser, Supreeth Reddy Directed by: Prabhu Dheva Rating:

Neha is a 6-year-old girl who assumes Shiva to be her father. Confused and angry about having been bestowed the unwanted responsibility of a child, Shiva decides to find her real father. What follows is a series of revelations and a whole lot of revenge.

While the film lacks decent visual effects, it makes up in the drama and the action that majorly unfolds in the second half of the film. Probably, the easiest way to earn brownie points with audiences is to remake hit films and Prabhu Deva smartly uses this tactic. All the songs in the film are mood changing with Chinta ta ta slotted at No 1 since its release. This movie sees Akshay Kumar at his action best combined with his sleazy wit and humour. After two movies, I am still unsure where Sonakshi would fit in. Though the chemistry between the two is almost negligible, there are instances where she seems a natural especially the dance sequences. I somehow have a thing for vulgar humour and as Rowdy says, “Don’t angry me”, my verdict is this movie is worth a watch if you enjoy a lot of cliches.

No personal life for Sonakshi Sinha

ctress Sonakshi Sinha has been in the limelight since making her debut with Dabangg in 2010, be it for her figure or the men she is supposed to be dating. With four of her films due to hit the theatres this year, the 24-year-old actor says she does not have a personal life and would rather talk about her films. “I want to be talked about for the films I am doing rather than a party I attended, the dress I wore and the men I may have met and dated. In any case, by and large I think I have spoken about more for the profession I am in than my personal life. That’s the way I

like it because frankly, I don’t really have a personal life to begin with,” Sonakshi said. When asked how she deals with all the talking about her, she said, “One thing which I know about this world of glamour is that it is better to have people talking about you than not being talked about at all. It is okay, they are doing their job; I would continue to do mine. I can’t have control over what others think or say about you.” The daughter of actor-politician Shatrughan Sinha has quite a hectic schedule as four of her films Rowdy Rathore, Joker, Son of Sardar and Dabangg 2 are in the offPTI ing.

Usha Uthup looking for meatier roles in films S

he took the audience by surprise appearing in Saat Khoon Maaf and singer Usha Uthup says she is looking forward to some meaty roles in Bollywood now. The 64-year-old singer played a loyal help to Priyanka Chopra’s character in the

film directed by Vishal Bhardwaj. “I am waiting for good roles, looking for something meaty. In the meantime I have done a bit of acting in Kerala and Bengal. I hope I get some offers in Bollywood,” Usha said. PTI

CINEMA SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2012

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CINEMA SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2012

Stallone, De Niro may star

in a boxing movie

ylvester Stallone and Robert De Niro are currently in negotiations to star in a new boxing movie. The stars of Rocky and Raging Bull are reported to be close to signing on to appear in Grudge Match, a comedy about two retired fighters who return to the ring for one more bout. Written by Entourage creator Doug Ellin and directed by Peter Segal (Get Smart), The Wrap reports that the movie is likely to begin filming next year. Stallone’s representatives have stated he is currently considering the role, while De Niro’s have declined to comment at this time. Both actors have a busy upcoming

schedule, with De Niro lined up to appear in seven movies between now and 2013. Stallone is currently working on three new action movies, despite claiming that “the action genre is fading away”. These include the upcoming Expendables 2, and The Tomb in 2013, also featuring Expendables co-star Arnold Schwarzenegger.

JB’s camp regrets free Oslo show

ustin Bieber’s label has stated it “regrets” his recent free show in Oslo, Norway. The singer previewed two new tracks off his forthcoming album Believe at a concert in the city’s Opera House on Wednesday (May 30) and was met by huge crowds of fans. Despite Bieber warning fans to be careful at the gig, it was reported that 78 people were injured during the event, which saw unprecedented crowds form. Universal Music said in a statement that it “regrets strongly that some of those who were [at the] Justin concert had a bad experience” and added: “Fortunately no-one was seriously injured.” The label insisted that it hasn’t put the star off performing in the country and said that Bieber would love to “return to Norway and [perform] a new concert” for his enthusiastic fanbase. Meanwhile, Bieber accidentally ran into a pane of

glass during a gig in Paris on May 31. Addressing the incident, he tweeted: “i will see u again Glass. I will have my revenge. BIEBER vs GLASS. MGM LAS VEGAS 2013. lol. #GottaLaughAtYourself ” Justin Bieber’s third studio album Believe will be released in UK on June 18 and a day later in the US.

CINEMA SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2012

AN EPIC LETDOWN

Snow White and the Huntsmen is a lot of potential gone waste thanks to the saggy script and grimmer than Grimm rendition of the fairy tale

hen the funbut-frivolous Mirror Mirror came out a couple of months ago, all eyes turned to the big budgeted Snow White and the Huntsmen for relief. With a cast like Chris Hemsworth, Kristen Stewart and Charlize Theron (as the evil queen), it was eagerly awaited as the next big epic action-adventure. In its extravagant scale, strong visuals and performances, it succeeds. But as a rendition of our favourite fairy-tale and the ultimate love story, it disappoints in every way possible. We all know the story— in a land far, far away, a kingdom lives in peace and prosperity under the aegis of a fair and just ruler. Until he is seduced by a war captive and forced to marry her. Surprise, surprise, she is the evil Queen (Charlize Theron) who quickly disposes of him, seizes the throne and

Movie: Snow White and the Huntsmen Cast: Kristen Stewart, Charlize Theron, Chris Hemsworth Directed by: Rupert Sanders

locks up the beautiful Snow White (Kristen Stewart) in an ivory tower. Unlike the tales of yore, Snow doesn't sit idle. Now of

age, she escapes into the dark woods. Huntsman (Chris Hemsworth) is commissioned to hunt her down but upon meeting her turns sides and

becomes her hero. Almost as an after-thought, Snow White enlists the dwarfs (Toby Jones, Eddie Marsan, Bob Hoskins, Nick

K-Stew and crew awed by Theron M

The Avengers going to outer space

e’re not trying to be cute here, the Avengers really are going to make a presence in space, but it’s probably not what you’re thinking. As cool as it would be to get Scarlett Johansson, Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans and company up close and personal with the stars, the flick’s cast will be seen above and beyond while onscreen.

Marvel Studios announced that they made a deal with Nasa to transfer their popular film to Nasa’s Mission Control in Houston, which will uplink the film to the International Space Station to be screened for the space station crew’s exclusive enjoyment. And the ISS is currently orbiting at 220 miles above Earth. How cool is that?!

ove over, Robert Pattinson— Charlize Theron is taking your place! No, Kristen Stewart is not replacing her reallife Twilight boyfriend with her Snow White and the Huntsman costar, but K. Stew, 22, really digs Ms. Theron, 36. “I want to stand on my tippy toes when I’m around her,” Stewart said. SWATH costar Sam Claflin appeared at the MTV sneak peek of their new fairy-tale action flick. “She’s mad intimidating. Most people would make you feel really bad about yourself when you’re intimidated by them, but I feel so great around.” Claflin gushed, “She makes you step up your game.” Theron is also, well, super cool. “She’s awesome,” Stewart said. “And she’s hilarious—she’s so fast and quick.” Even with all this lovin’, Stewart and Claflin aren’t going to be babysitting for the new mum anytime soon. “I don’t think she should trust either of us,” Stewart said. Claflin cracked, “I don’t think she’d trust us with the kid or even her dogs.”

Frost and Ian McShane). Over the course of the next act, Snow gathers herself an army and leads charge to overthrow the evil Queen. And that's that. No really. Except for the truly fairest of 'em all Theron, the rest of the cast most notably Hemsworth and Stewart are insipid at their best. Visually, the movie is spectacular. Sadly, its not helped by the saggy script and the grimmer than Grimm rendition. If you are looking for a happily-ever-after, sorry folks, this is not it.

CHAI TIME SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2012

THOUGHT OF THE DAY

SOLUTION ON PAGE 32

SUDOKU

KAKURO

How to play Kakuro

SCRIBBLING PAD

Kakuro is a popular game similar to sudoku in some ways. But is also suitably different. The key question: ‘How do you play kakuro?’, well here are the rules of kakuro. The answer: The kakuro grid, unlike in sudoku, can be of any size. It has rows and columns, and dark cells like in a crossword. And, just like in a crossword, some of the dark cells will contain numbers. Some cells will contain two numbers. However, in a crossword the numbers reference clues. In a kakuro, the numbers are all you get! They denote the total of the digits in the row or column referenced by the number. Within each collection of cells — called a run — any of the numbers 1 to 9 may be used but, like sudoku, each number may only be used once. Let’s have an example to explain this concept more clearly: In the image above, which shows a section of a kakuro puzzle, you will see the numbers ‘26’ and ‘14’ in the top row. Look at the 14. This means that the total of the three cells underneath must sum to 14. Therefore 9, 4, 1 could be the answer, or perhaps 7, 4, 3 and so on... So, how do you work out the actual combination? Well, this is done through elimination and cross-referencing. For instance, as you work out the answers for other kakuro clues, this will naturally limit the valid combinations, and hence the answer for this particular run. Note the second cell in row two — it contains two numbers, 30 and 11. The 30 refers to the vertical run underneath the number 30 and the 11 refers to the two cells to the right, horizontally, of the number 11.

Only two things are infinite, the universe and human stupidity, and I’m not sure about the former. – Albert Einstein

QUICK CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Heidi's mountain 4 Have a go at 11 Bio class setting 14 Boardwalk view 15 Quick dance of old France 16 Donned the feedbag 17 Some linen 19 Considerable degree 20 Acquires 21 Shooting locale 23 ‘He ___ got a clue’ 25 ‘Ah, I see!’ 28 Doberman's warning 29 Ending for ‘alarm’ or ‘bass’ 30 ___ and void 32 Brought to court 33 Ceremonial procession 37 Stocking shade 39 Corporate owner 43 ‘How do?’ in Honolulu 44 Yet to hit the shelves 46 Box-office disaster 49 Absorbs (with ‘up’) 51 A Bobbsey twin 52 Like the Leaning Tower of Pisa 54 It's in the center of Jerusalem? 55 Depleted of energy 57 Like a direct descendant 59 Computer addicts? 61 ‘Iron Horse’ Gehrig 62 Where one might spot a king 67 It's not an exact fig 68 Obvious 69 Pigeon's sound 70 ‘Time out!’ hand signal 71 Kicks out of the country 72 Chop down, as a tree DOWN 1 African slitherer 2 Blooming necklace? 3 Old Greek gymnasium 4 Call off the launch 5 It's larger than a village 6 University of Arizona location

7 Period of history 8 ‘___ Doubtfire’ (Robin Williams comedy) 9 Shopping center? 10 Aptitude determiners 11 ‘Ed Wood’ Oscar winner Martin 12 Dress code concern 13 Lo's partner 18 Computer network acronym 22 Defeat, as the incumbent 23 Kind of pocket or roof 24 ‘... and make it fast!’ 26 They conceal lug nuts 27 Alternative bread spread 31 Outline in great detail 34 Agriculturally viable 35 Costa-Sol connector 36 Eve's grandchild

38 Fed pamphlet the mail producer 63 Balm application site 40 ‘O Brother, Where 64 ‘And now, without Art ___?’ (2000 film) further ___’ 41 Model of excellence 65 Landmark Supreme 42 Chinese monetary Court name unit 66 Wrecker's service 45 You might get a bang out of this 46 Baryshnikov's PREVIOUS PUZZLE ANSWER medium 47 Serving no purpose 48 Itsy-bitsy 50 Cup's companion 53 Recorded for later viewing 55 Offshoot groups 56 In favor of 58 Give a good scrubbing 60 Already in

CHAI TIME SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2012

Aries

Taurus

Gemini

Cancer

Leo

Four of Pentacles

The Fool

The Hanged Man

Queen of Pentacles

The Wheel of Fortune

ork – You may be innocently disclosing important confidential information, which you are not supposed to. Always check with seniors if in doubt about anything at all. Romance – You don’t have to woo your partner in the same way just because everybody else is also doing it. Health – There may be some throat issues and minor irritations, like stomach upset, etc. Treat it immediately to follow normal routine. Money – Some accusations may be made against you. But, relax. They will remain unfounded. Ensure that all your papers are clear and don’t leave any stone unturned. Tarot message – You find a common ground of interest with another person and you both hit it off really well.

ork – Silence, sometimes, is the best answer you can give someone when they are accusing you of something, and you don’t know why. Romance – If you find out something about your partner, don’t panic. There is no use behaving as though the world is about to end. Health – Diet needs attention. You may have to eat the bitter pill (meaning foods that you don’t particularly enjoy) in order to restore your health. Money – It may be difficult to achieve the goals you have set in your mind. Be practical and make realistic goals. Tarot message – Don’t be hasty. Take as much time as you need, even if those around you are forcing you to hurry up.

ork – Your bosses will entrust you with more responsibility and trust you to do the job without any supervision. Romance – You are at your charming best and are surprised with yourself that you show so much courage in romance. Health – By limiting yourself to home remedies you are allowing your body to heal from within. Try allopathy if you cannot handle the pain anymore. Money – That your finances have gone out of control is not your fault. You need to realise that not everything will go to plan. You need a Plan B. Tarot message – You are relieved that things are still manageable. They could have been worse.

ork – Don’t be reasonable! You read right. By being reasonable all the time, you’re missing out on opportunities, which others are walking away with. Romance – There are some intimacy issues to be dealt with. Do things together with your partner to increase the love for each other. Health – Sleep issues are keeping you tense and awake. You need to tackle this and manage better sleep hygiene. Money – Losing temper at someone else’s fault is not going to get you back the money you lost. It’s only money. It will come back to you soon. Tarot message – Admit your mistakes, if you have made any. Be brave, honest, open and upfront about everything.

ork – You may be straying into another person’s area of expertise and that person may not exactly like it. They may see you as meddling too much. Romance – Your absence during important events defeats the very purpose of being in a relationship. You need to correct this at the earliest. Health – Some unexpected things may happen on the health front. No need to panic. Just do what is needed to stay above trouble. Money –By good planning, you are able to accomplish your financial goals. Make sure you continue to stick to your plan. Tarot message – Life is short but there are many things you want to achieve. Prioritise and don’t waste time.

Virgo Five of Swords

ork – You may be wasting a lot of time in chatter and unnecessary gossip at the work place. This is making you unproductive and you don’t even have the energy for daily tasks. Romance – Romance can hit high gear with an elegant meal, excellently cooked and daintily served. Raise the oomph quotient. Health – You may be getting some doubts about a health issue. Put all doubts to rest by getting a full body medical check-up. Money –You are finally convinced about what finance pundits have been saying all along. Invest for the long term. Tarot message – Your belief in the afterlife is put to the test. These are interesting times. Ride the occult wave.

SUMAA TEKUR tarotreadhyd@gmail.com

Libra

Scorpio

Two of Swords

Five of Pentacles

ork – You need to take judicious intervals when you work so you are able to be more productive and concentrate better. Romance – You have fatalistic hope in a relationship. That may or may not be a good thing, considering your partner is your diametric opposite. Health – You are unable to break out of a behavior pattern due to force of habit. This is impacting your health. It could be smoking or alcohol consumption. Money – You suspect something amiss when you don’t get the required details about your bank account or investments. Check. Double-check. Tarot message – You are both sensible and cheerful at the same time and will have no trouble managing stuff.

ork – Don’t continue to fret about what happened a while ago. It should be forgotten and you should move on. Romance – There is no need to quarrel if you have already realised that the affections were short-lived. Come to terms with your state of mind. Health – You need a solitary hour every day in order to maintain peace of mind. You need alone-time to think things through and do what is best for you. Money – If you are nervous about investing somewhere, best to hold off till such a time when you are absolutely sure. Tarot message – Things are going to get complicated, with decision making not being so easy. Keep an open mind.

Sagittarius Queen of Swords

ork –You are looking for immediate results. Guess what, you’re also getting them. Your hard work is meeting a lucky phase. Good time to plan new projects. Romance – You may be having a very juvenile attitude towards relationships. This is harming your overall outlook at life as well. Health – You are relieved that a health problem has been tackled. You are in a position to continue with normal diet and no medicines. Money – Finances are looking very good. This gives you the confidence to do things your way. Be careful about sharing finance information with anyone. Tarot message – Home life needs attention. If career has been your sole focus till now, you need to balance it.

Capricorn

Date 3-6-2012

Aquarius

Strength

Six of Wands

ork – Make no room for petty issues and disagreements at the work place. They’re not worth your time. Romance – You get nervous about approaching a love interest and this prevents you from getting what you deserve. Be brave. What’s the worst that could happen? Health – Loneliness may be getting to you. You are not used to living alone and the new arrangement may be bothering you too much. Money – You make a good deal by going the unconventional way. You decide to trust someone and place your bets on something you wouldn’t otherwise. Tarot message – Success is within reach depending on what your attitude towards success is, and how you wish to view it.

ork – Proceed as per your plan and have complete faith in yourself and your ideas. Don’t pay too much attention to what people say about you. Romance – Marriage may be late for singles. But when it does happen, you will be happy and content with what you have. Health – Take in more fresh air, sunlight and cool breeze. Go for evening walks in the neighbourhood park. Create balance in your health. Money – Your persistent efforts pay off. You need money so you can do all the other things you’re more interested in. Tarot message – Laugh at life and it will laugh back at you. What goes around comes around. Be brave and strong.

Pisces Seven of Cups

ork – The ‘force of example’ will accomplish a lot of things. You may be following someone’s lead and it will give you new ideas. Romance – A reasonable consideration will prevent a disaster. You need to be selfless and giving of everything in order to reap the benefits of togetherness. Health – Your health may have gone astray because of lack of discipline. You need to get it back on track. Concentrate on diet and exercise. Money –Confide in someone about your doubts with money. It should erase your fears about whether you’re doing the right thing. Tarot message – There is depth in what seems like subtle connections with other people you may hardly know.

Vol: 1, No 321 RNI No: APENG/2011/39337 Published for the proprietors, Scribble Media and Entertainment Pvt Ltd, by V Harshavardhan Reddy, at #1246, Level 3, Jubilee Casa, Road No 62, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad – 500033 and printed by him at Jagati Publications Ltd, Plot No D-75&E-52, APIE Industrial Estate, Balanagar, Ranga Reddy Dist, Hyderabad – 500037, Editor: Dean Williams – Responsible for selection of news under the PRB Act All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of the publisher is prohibited. For feedback, please write to: feedback@postnoon.com and for subscription, please call 040-4067 2222, Fax: 040-4067 2211

THE SATURDAY QUIZ SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2012

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE

FAMOUS SPOUSES

9. What is the costliest wine in the world? 10. What is the national animal of Madagascar? 11. What is the most densely populated volcanic region in the world? 12. Who is the tallest man in the world ever? 13. What is the most visited

website in the world? 14. Recently Japan had launched its first commercial rocket that carried into orbit the satellite of which country? 15. Who is the youngest solo sailor in the world? 16. What is the most expensive coffee in the world?

IDENTIFY THESE TOWERS

IDENTIFY THE BETTER HALVES

Nicknamed ‘Crunchy’, this person has been called one of the most devastating batsman of all times. He has a reputation of hitting the ball out of the park, and has been the captain of the IPL winning team. He is married to Mel. Who is he ?

Answers

of time? 5. The most famous cuisine in the world? 6. How many oscars did Titanic win? 7. Which musician was recently given the presidential medal of freedom? 8. What is the longest beach in the world?

1.Little boy 2.Jay Leno 3.Mc Donalds 4.Saddam Hussein 5.French cuisine 6.11 7.Bob Dylan 8.Praia Do Cassino Beach, Brazil.150 miles 9.Domaine de la Romanee 10. The Ring Tailed Lemur 11.Mount Vesuvius 12.Sultan Kosen, 8 feet 3 inches 13.Facebook 14.S Korea 15.Jessica Watson 16. Kopi Luwak

NAME THEM WHOSE LAST WORDS WERE THESE?

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

What a fool I’ve been! Go on. Get out! last words are for fools who haven’t said enough.

It’s very beautiful

After Rahul Dravid, he is the greatest test cricketer of all times. He has led his side to many victories and has been the most consistent performer. Known for his orthodox batting style and his unique look, this south African is married to Sumaiyah.Who is he ?

Go away! I’m alright.

Hey Ram!

He was the youngest cricketer when he joined his side. Also known as the chocolate boy of cricket, he has led his side successfully for many years now. With his batting and bowling capability he is the ace of New Zealand cricket team. He is married to Mary O'Connell. Who is he?

Love one another.

Brothers! Brothers, please! This is a house of peace! Money Can’t buy life.

3. Daniel Vettori

Answers: 1. Adam Gilchrist 2. Hashim Amla

Don’t worry, They usually don’t swim backwards.

Which is the longest tributary river in India? Who owns the costliest house in India?

with Santosh Ghule What is he fishing for?

Answer for

What was Lata Mangeshkar’s profession before she started singing?

PICTURE PUZZLE 17

16: Hidden between the leaves and the tree is a woman

Who was the first person to receive the Bharat ratna posthumously?

4. Shun Hing Square, Shenzhen, China

What is the age of the youngest filmmaker in India?

Answer: 1. Sears Tower, Chicago 2.Rose Hotel, Dubai 3. Q1, Gold Coast, Aaustralia

What is India’s national tree?

WHO AM I? I was born in Kolkata to an Anglo Indian family, I started of my career as a journalist and then went into advertising. I hosted a television quiz show and interschool quiz contests in India and other places as well. I am currently the member of Rajya Sabha. Who am I? ?

Answer: Florence Nightingale

1 2 3 4 5

Answer:

KNOW YOUR COUNTRY

1. Winston Churchill 2.Karl Marx 3.Thomas Alva Edison 4.HG Wells 5.Mahatma Gandhi 6.George Harrison 7.Malcolm X 8.Bob Marley 9.Steve Irwin

1. What is the name of the bomb dropped on Nagasaki? 2. Who is the celebrity who owns the most number of cars in the world? 3. The largest fast food chain in the word? 4. The politician who was in power for the longest period

1.Yamuna 2. Mukesh Ambani and Neeta Ambani 3 The Banyan tree 4.9 years 5.L.B. Shastry 6.Actress

Answers

53 DAYS TO GO SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2012

Bolt vows to wow world LONDON: Usain Bolt has

Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt poses for photographs during the official presentation of the Jamaican clothing for the AFP/ANDREW COWIE 2012 Olympic games, in London, on June 1, 2012.

Mehdi Baala suffers injury PARIS: French middle-distance runner Mehdi Baala has seen his London Olympic plans take a hit after sustaining what his coach Jean-Michel Dirringer said was a “serious injury” in training. Baala, world silver medallist in 2003 and bronze medallist in the Beijing Olympics in 2008, suffered a tear to a tendon in the arch of his foot during training on Thursday in the Pyrenees town of Font-Romeu, Dirringer told AFP. “He felt a sudden, shooting pain and had to stop in the middle of training,” the coach said. “You can’t hide from the fact that a tear in the arch of the foot is a serious injury.” Dirringer added: “It’s now up to the medical team. As for his rehabilitation, we’ll take the decisions when it’s time. “If it’s a question of two weeks, the Olympics will be feasible.”

promised to “wow” the world with his performances at the 2012 London Olympic Games. The Jamaica sprinter is the reigning Olympic 100 metres and 200 metres champion after dazzling displays in Beijing four years ago, where he also helped the Caribbean island in the 4x100m relay gold medal. World record holder in both individual sprint disciplines, Bolt endured a relatively modest start to the European track season, but was back into top form winning the Rome Diamond League 100m in 9.76 seconds on Thursday. “I know I can go faster because this is the start of the season. I have a long way to go,” Bolt said in London on Friday, where he was launching Jamaica’s Bob Marley-inspired kit. “I’m really looking forward to competing here. I haven’t competed in London for a while so I’m really looking forward to it.” Bolt said he would seek inspiration from London’s Jamaican community, adding: “I know all the Jamaicans living here are looking forward to it also so I’m just preparing to put on a great show. “At the end of the day I just want to wow people after this Olympics so I’m looking forward to it.” Asked whether he will need to improve on 9.76secs to win gold, and whether he can go

Phelps tunes up AUSTIN, TEXAS: US Olympic swimming great Michael Phelps won the 100m butterfly and lost the 100m free on Friday in his final meeting before the US Olympic swimming trials later this month. Phelps, whose 14 Olympic gold medals include an unprecedented eight in one Games at Beijing four years ago, settled for second behind Jimmy Feigin in the 100m freestyle, Phelps clocking 49.05sec to Feigin’s 48.63. Phelps said he used that setback to fuel his bid in the 100m butterfly, in which he powered to a comfortable victory in 52.02. “I didn’t swim smart or very well in the 100 (free), and I got beat because of it,” Phelps said. “I was angry with myself for that, and I turned it around a little in the 100 butterfly.”

The meeting, organized by the by the University of Texas aquatics department, is opposite the USA Swimming Grand Prix event of the season, in Santa Clara, California. Phelps opted not to make the trip to California, instead using the Texas meet-

ing as his last prep races for the Olympic trials in Omaha, Nebraska, starting on June 25. “Without a doubt, the clock is ticking for the upcoming Olympics, and I have to keep working hard to be where I want to be by July 27,” said Phelps.

faster, Bolt said: “That’s what I do. The season is still early. Everybody is running 9.8 so that’s good competition. 9.7 is also good for me. Bolt ‘only’ managed a 10.04 sec run in winning the 100m in Ostrava last week, but he said: “I never doubt my ability, never. People forget, and I keep explaining to people, that athletes have bad days. “Every athlete can... you have bad days and that was just one of mine and I got past it and now I’m just moving forward.” Bolt’s triple Olympic triumph in Beijing was powered on a diet of chicken nuggets — but there will be no repeat of that in London. “The good thing about the fact we are in London is there will be a lot of Jamaican food — the only thing I have to worry about is putting on weight,” he said. “There will be no chicken nuggets this year.” The Jamaican kit was designed by Cedella Marley, who drew inspiration from her father and his music. “We took the fit of what my dad would wear and updated it to 2012,” Marley said. “You have the Iron Lion military jacket, the Buffalo Soldier shirt. I tried to incorporate the Bob Marley fit in as many pieces as possible where we were able to accommodate that. “You did see dad on the jacket, right? So that’s a little piece of him that’s going to be in London.”

Stricter ban for dopers PARIS: The next world anti-doping code, scheduled for 2015, will bid to prevent athletes who have been found guilty of doping from competing at the Olympic Games following the end of their suspension. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) had included a similar ruling in its Olympic charter in 2008. But the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruled last October that this was an illegal sanction, and the IOC was forced to backtrack and abandon the stipulation before next month’s London Olympics. The 2015 world anti-doping code will seek to legalise a ban by implementing a “Limitation on Participation in the Olympic Games”, a first draft of the code revealed on Friday. An Olympic ban could also be imposed on athletes deemed to have committed an anti-doping rule violation like filing failures and missed tests, prohibited association.

SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2012

ALL

BEAUTY

YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT

Best EURO performance: never qualified Coach: Oleh Blokhin Leading scorer: : all-time – Andriy Shevchenko (46); current – Andriy Shevchenko (46)

THE UKRAINE

THE BEST

U KRAINE ’ S

Most appearances: all-time – Anatoliy Tymoshchuk (113); current – Anatoliy Tymoshchuk (113) Association formed: 1992 Nickname: Synyo-Zhovti (Blue and yellows)

Hosting dreams Preparing for their first finals as an independent nation, the co-hosts have been set a minimum target by their coach Oleh Blokhin: reaching the knockout stages from Group D Viktor Branitsky

POSTNOON PREDICTION

KIEV: Oleg Blokhin takes Ukraine into its home European championships as manager, hoping to inspire the team with his successes from the glory days of Soviet football in the 1970s and 1980s. “This tournament is very important for all of us and very special for me personally as I never played at the European championships during my playing career,” Blokhin said. “So I want to catch up as a coach.” The 59-year-old — who set an impressive series of records in his playing days with Dynamo Kiev and the USSR — took over Ukraine’s national team for the first time in December 2003 in the midst of a dreadful run of form. Until then, all of post-Soviet Ukraine’s attempts to reach the finals stages of the football major events had ended in fiasco. So, when Blokhin promised at his first press conference to “qualify for the 2006 World Cup by winning our group”, few people took him seriously. But he kept his word by winning the qualifying group and leading his side all the way into the 2006 World Cup quarter-finals, where they were eliminated by eventual champions Italy. After Ukraine’s failure to qualify for the Euro 2008, Blokhin stepped down. Three-and-a-half years later, though, he was back, when the national side failed It’s highly unlikely that Ukraine are going to make it out of this group. Of course there’s always a chance that France will implode, and Sweden be stuck in eternal defense and score zip.

to qualify for the 2010 World Cup. One of Blokhin’s first steps was to ease up the pressure on the players weighed down by another qualification failure and the unrealistic expectations of the public and the media. “Of course we want to win the Euro 2012 but at least 10 other teams have the same intention,” said Blokhin. “Our first goal at the event is to reach the knockout stage. Then we’ll see.” Even after his team were drawn in Group D with England, France and Sweden, Blokhin remained adamant, saying: “Our goal remains unchanged.” Despite serious injury worries ahead of the Euro 2012 kick-off, Blokhin has insisted that past records will count for nothing when he comes to pick his squad, warning players that none of them was assured a place. “We don’t call up players only for their beautiful eyes.”

FIXTURES

Monday 11 June: Ukraine v Sweden, 20.45CET, Kyiv Friday 15 June: Ukraine v France, 18.00CET, Donetsk Tuesday 19 June: England v Ukraine, Donetsk

UKRAINE GROUP D At a glance Having reached the 2006 World Cup quarter-finals in their only previous major tournament appearance since independence in 1991, the co-hosts are eager to go even further at Euro 2012. The tournament is likely to be the last hurrah for Andriy Shevchenko (see right), Anatoliy Tymoshchuk and Olexandr Shovkovskiy; for the likes of Yaroslav Rakitskiy and Yevhen Konoplyanka, it could be just the start.

E URO

30 STATS

MATCHES PLAYED Overall: P42 W16 D13 L13 F56 A48 Final tournament: P0 W0 D0 L0 F0 A0 Qualifying: P42 W16 D13 L13 F56 A48

PLAYER TO WATCH

A legend’s swan song draws near KIEV: Ukraine’s legendary striker Andriy Shevchenko is dreaming of leading his nation to home glory in Euro 2012 as he heads into the swansong of a glorious career which took him to Europe’s finest leagues. The life of Shevchenko, who first emerged in the 1990s at Dynamo Kiev under the late great coach Valeriy Lobanovskiy, has now turned full circle as he plays out the twilight of his career for Dynamo Kiev and in Euro 2012 at home. Shevchenko’s career saw him collect the European footballer of the year award in 2004 during a glorious seven-year spell with AC Milan, an unsuccessful stint at Chelsea followed by his return to Kiev in 2009. “When I was a child I dreamed a lot," Shevchenko told reporters as he watched the

Euro trophy start its journey through Ukraine. “I dreamed sincerely and with all my heart. So, I ask all Ukrainians to believe with all their hearts that the dreams of Euro 2012 can become reality. “And this also concerns the dream of the Ukrainian national team in the final," he added. “We need to dream about victory with all our hearts." Shevchenko has been the standard bearer of his nation’s football hopes for over 15 years and nothing would cap his career better than glory in the Euro which Ukraine is co-hosting with Poland. Shevchenko had admitted that with the years going by, he is not in top form and is still 30 per cent short of the full physical fitness required for the Euro. “If I do not feel I can play at the highest level then I won’t.”

SPORTS SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2012

Celtics beat the Heat LONDON: The Boston Celtics, buoyed by a return to their home floor, jumped to a big lead and held on to beat Miami 101-91 on Friday to narrow the gap on the Heat in the NBA Eastern Conference Finals. Kevin Garnett scored 24 points with 11 rebounds, Paul Pierce added 23 and Rajon Rondo chipped in with 21 as the Celtics narrowed the gap in the best-ofseven series to 2-1 after dropping the first two games in Miami. The winners of the series advance to the NBA Finals, where they will battle either San Antonio or Oklahoma City for the league championship. Rondo also added 10 assists and six rebounds in another sparkling performance. Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland crosses a bridge on the 14th hole during the second round of the Memorial Tournament presented by Nationwide SCOTT HALLERAN/GETTY IMAGES/AFP Insurance at Muirfield Village Golf Club on Friday in Dublin, Ohio.

Rory exits while namesake takes lead

DUBLIN, OHIO: Rory Sabbatini posted a second straight 69 on Friday to seize the halfway lead at The Memorial, with 14-time major champion Tiger Woods leading a group just one shot adrift while Rory McIlroy, his US Open title defence a fortnight away, missed the cut in his third straight tournament on Friday. The 23-year-old star from Northern Ireland had regained the world number one ranking four weeks ago but has since missed the cut at the US tour’s Players Championship and Europe’s BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth. McIlroy’s seven-over 79 included two double-bogeys — a seven at the par-five 11th hole and a six at the par-four 14th. Sabbatini had a 36-hole total of 139 on the rain-sodden par-72 Muirfield Village course. Woods, a four-time winner of the tournament hosted by Jack Nicklaus, carded a 69 and was tied for second on 139 with Spencer Levin (72) and firstround leader Scott Stallings (73). A victory come Sunday for

Rory Sabbatini of South Africa watches his tee shot on the 18th hole during the second round of the Memorial Tournament presented by Nationwide Insurance at Muirfield Village Golf Club on Friday. ANDY LYONS/GETTY IMAGES/AFP

Woods would be significant. It would tie him with tournament host Nicklaus for second on the all-time PGA Tour wins list with 73. But Woods wasn’t looking that far ahead. “We’ve got a long way to go for that,” said Woods. “Yeah, obviously it would be nice, but I’ve still got half a tournament to go.”

Woods moved briskly up the leaderboard with three birdies in his first six holes. Some missed short putts kept the round from being even better, including a three-footer at the 11th that would have given him the lead at six-under par. At the next hole, Woods was in trouble with a tee shot into the gallery. After a poor chip, he finally

reached the green in three, and took a double-bogey from 13 feet. Woods, who has endured an erratic season, shook it off with back-to-back birdies at 15 and 16, had a birdie chance at 17 then drained a testing fourfooter at the final hole to keep the pressure on Sabbatini. “I missed a couple out there, but overall I knew in these conditions to shoot something in the 60s was going to be a pretty good effort,” Woods said. “Pleased with my round.” McIlroy wasn’t the only marquee name to miss the cut. Bubba Watson, winner of the Masters in April, and PGA Champion Keegan Bradley, also exited early. A heavy storm prevented play for almost two hours on Friday, and South Africa’s Sabbatini endured the wettest conditions in the afternoon. After a bogey at the first, Sabbatini rebounded with a 12foot birdie at the fourth. A wayward drive at the parfour sixth led to another bogey, but a birdie at the ninth saw him make the turn at even par for the day.

Floyd Mayweather tweeted a picture of himself and his young daughter on Friday.

Floyd’s sentence starts LOS ANGELES: Unbeaten US boxer Floyd Mayweather tweeted a picture of himself and his young daughter Friday, before surrendering in a Las Vegas court to begin a 90-day jail sentence. “Me & my daughter spending precious time together before I leave my family, friends and fans...” Mayweather said on the social networking site. Mayweather’s sentence for battery had been postponed until June 1 so that he could fight Miguel Cotto on May 5 — when the American won Cotto’s World Boxing Association super welterweight title with a unanimous points decision. Mayweather had pleaded guilty on December 21 to domestic violence charges.

SPORTS SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2012

How they fared Men

Women

3rd rd

Novak Djokovic (SRB x1) bt Nicolas Devilder (FRA) 6-1, 6-2, 6-2 Andreas Seppi (ITA x22) bt Fernando Verdasco (ESP x14) 7-5, 3-6, 6-3, 4-6, 6-2 Stanislas Wawrinka (SUI x18) bt Gilles Simon (FRA x11) 7-5, 6-7 (5/7), 6-7 (3/7), 6-3, 6-2 Jo-Wilfried Tsonga (FRA x5) bt Fabio Fognini (ITA) 7-5, 6-4, 6-4 Roger Federer (SUI x3) bt Nicolas Mahut (FRA) 6-3, 4-6, 6-2, 7-5 David Goffin (BEL) bt Lukasz Kubot (POL) 7-6 (7/4), 7-5, 6-1 Juan Martín Del Potro (ARG x9) bt Marin Cilic (CRO x21) 6-3, 7-6 (9/7), 6-1 Tomas Berdych (CZE x7) bt Kevin Anderson (RSA x31) 6-4, 3-6, 6-7 (4/7), 6-4, 6-4

Victoria Azarenka (BLR x1) bt Aleksandra Wozniak (CAN) 6-4, 6-4 Dominika Cibulkova (SVK x15) bt Maria Jose Martinez (ESP) 6-2, 6-1 Sloane Stephens (USA) bt Mathilde Johansson (FRA) 6-3, 6-2 Samantha Stosur (AUS x6) bt Nadia Petrova (RUS x27) 6-3, 6-3 Svetlana Kuznetsova (RUS x26) bt Agnieszka Radwanska (POL x3) 6-1, 6-2 Sara Errani (ITA x21) bt Ana Ivanovic (SRB x13) 1-6, 7-5, 6-3 Angelique Kerber (GER x10) bt Flavia Pennetta (ITA x18) 4-6, 6-3, 6-2 Petra Martic (CRO) bt Anabel Medina Garrigues (ESP x29) 6-2, 6-1

PARIS: When Roger Federer was winning his first Wimbledon in 2003, David Goffin was a starstruck child, hanging posters of the great Swiss on the wall of his bedroom in the Belgian city of Liege. Now, nine years on, the 21-year-old gets the opportunity to play against his idol with a French Open quarter-final place at stake. However, just one week ago, such a scenario had looked impossible. Goffin, the world 109, had lost in the qualifying tournament at Roland Garros and was ready to pack his bags for home. But when top French player Gael Monfils pulled out of the event with a knee injury, he was handed a lifeline into the main draw as a lucky loser -- an alternate on standby -- and has not looked back. Goffin has become the

first lucky loser to reach the last 16 of a Grand Slam since compatriot Dick Norman at Wimbledon in 1995 and the first at Roland Garros since 1978. “I haven’t realized what has happened. Not yet. Maybe next week,” said baby-faced Goffin, making his Grand Slam debut. “Now I’m playing against Roger, and I can’t believe it. When I was young I had a lot of pictures of him in my bedroom. I will give it my best on Sunday.” Thanks to his efforts this week, Goffin’s Grand Slam record now stands at 3-0. Federer, nine years his senior, has 16 Grand Slam titles in his total haul of 74 career trophies, a 235-35 match record at the majors as well as more than $70 million in prize money. “I’ve been watching

Roger playing on TV for so many years. He has always been my favourite. He has perfect tennis, perfect technique, and I like the man,” added Goffin. “From a human standpoint, he is a great person, whether on the court or outside the court. “So I expect a very difficult match on Sunday. I don’t know exactly how I should prepare for this match, but I’ll try and have fun.” Goffin, whose best performance on the main tour so far was a quarter-final appearance in Mumbai in January, has looked comfortable so far at Roland Garros, defeating experienced Radek Stepanek and Arnaud Clement in the first two rounds. A straight sets win against Poland’s Lukasz Kubot paved the way for his dream Sunday date with Federer. AFP

Tweets ring on court PARIS: Some love it, some hate it, others are not quite sure what to make of it — but all agree that Twitter is on the march among tennis professionals. Serena Williams is a frequent user of the social media platform as is Caroline Wozniacki, but the world’s best paid sportswoman Maria Sharapova has little time

for it. “I think it’s too much for me,” she said after winning her way through to the last 16 of the French Open on Friday. “I mean, I’m bored with myself on a daily basis, and I think if I’m bored, like eating a bowl of pasta, I don’t need to let the world know that I’m at this restaurant eating a bowl of pasta.

That’s not how rising American player Sloan Stephens sees it. Asked what it meant to her to have reached the last 16 at Roland Garros for the first time, and with a promising career stretched out ahead of her, she replied: “Yeah, I’m excited, because now I’m going to have more Twitter followers. That’s good.”

BROWN BEIGE GREEN WHITE BLACK

Suduko

Boggle Number game

Goffin has a date with his idol

Scrabble

SOLUTIONS