FLASH
AMERICA KICKS THE ‘STAR’ OUT OF SRK’S ‘STARDOM’... AGAIN Shah Rukh Khan was detained at a New York airport for over two hours by immigration officials after arriving with Nita Ambani, to address students at Yale University. While Nita and the rest of their group were cleared immediately, Khan was given clearance only after about two hours. India said it will take this up with the US authorities. The US Customs and Border Protection authorities later expressed "profound" apologies for the detention. Later, in his speech at Yale, SRK joked at how every time he started feeling too arrogant, he made a trip to America. Hyderabad’s first compact afternoon newspaper
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012 HYDERABAD
WWW.POSTNOON.COM
WEATHER: A MIX OF CLOUDY AND CLEAR SKIES; 33°C
`2
32 PAGES
‘20K JOBS PER YEAR IS MY AIM’ The City’s youngest mayor, Mohd Majid Hussain completes 100 days in office today. Postnoon checked with 10 prominent citizens including political leaders of the GHMC to evaluate his first 100 days performance. Overall, he has scored fairly well but his administrative efficiency needs brushing up, they claim. Many of his initiatives auger well for citizens. P4&5
WHEN IT RAINS, IT POURS We all love those mid-summer showers that bring respite from the scorching heat. But Hyderabadis were taken by surprise with the thunderstorm that lashed the City yesterday. N SHIVA KUMAR
I’VE COME TO TERMS WITH MY SON’S ADDICTION Every parent has grand plans and dreams for their children. But what happens when your son tells you he’s a drug P18 addict?
WEIRD IS THE WORD It’s Friday the 13th — the dreaded combination that in many cultures is believed to be unlucky. Here is a look at some of the weird superstitions from around the world. REPORT ON PG 7
P16&17
Page Two
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012
Spirit of Twin Cities
TRANSPORT TRAVAILS
Mood for Mediterranean
SRINIVAS SETTY
From April 13 to April 22, The Deccan Pavillion at ITC Kakatiya is offering a Mediterranean dishes such as tapas, pasta, cheese, olives, wines and sangri. The lunch buffet is priced at `1,049, and the dinner buffet costs `1,149. Where: ITC Kakatiya, Begumpet When: Ongoing, 11am-7pm Contact: (040) 2340 0132
Book launch The book titled Simmering Sands by the author Mr Baqir Shameem will be launched at Oxford Bookstore by Mrs Nilofar Shameem. Where: Oxford Bookstore, The Park, Rajbhavan Road When: April 13, 6pm onwards Contact: 91601 48444
Khaifiyath Qadar Ali Baig Theatre Foundation is hosting a series of events to pay tribute to revered poet and lyricist Kaifi Azmi. Kaifiyath, an evening of poetry recitation featuring Shabana Azmi and Mohammed Ali Baig will be held. Where: HICC, Madhapur When: April 13, 7.30pm onwards
Every Rupee counts Syn at Taj Deccan is offering interesting meal options. The concept behind Calorie for a Rupee is to enjoy a great meal priced according to it’s calorie count. Where: Syn - Asian Bar and Grill, Taj Deccan, Banjara Hills, Rd No 1 When: Ongoing, 12 pm to 3.30pm Contact: (040) 6666 3939
Taste of Bengal Nobo Borsho feast will be held at Verandah and Aish from April 13April 15. Sample the best of East and West Bengal by The Park Kolkata’s chef. An a-la- carte menu is available at Verandah and an interesting Thaali at Aish. Where: The Park, Rajbhavan Road When: April 13 onwards Contact: (040) 2345 6789
Womanhood A painting exhibition by Priyanka Poogalia is being held at Beyond Coffee. Where: Beyond Coffee, Jubilee Hills, Rd No 36 When: Ongoing, 11 am onwards Contact: (040) 2354 5359
CINEMAS
2
Goan food festival The Momo Cafe at Hyderabad Marriott and Convention Centre is hosting a Goan food festival. Where: Hyderabad Marriott and Convention Centre, Tank Bund When: Ongoing, 12.30pm onwards Contact: (040) 2752 2999
IPL special Truffles Cafe is offering a great way to catch the live telecast of IPL season 5. Head to Truffles Cafe for IPL special mocktails, beverages and starters and various other delights. Where: Truffles Cafe, Jubilee Hills, Rd No 36 When: Ongoing, 8am onwards Contact: (040) 2355 0105
Mexican film festival World cinema? Head to Annapurna Studios Preview Theatre on April 14 for a Mexican film festival Where: Annapurna Studios Preview Theatre, Banjara Hills, Rd No1 When: April 15, 5.30pm onwards Contact: (040) 4914 1234
Being ’together’ Together, an exhibition of paintings by Shravan Kumar GK will be on display from April 6 onwards.
Where: Iconart Gallery, Banjara Hills, Rd No 12 When: Ongoing Contact: 98499 6879
Hard rock and games The IPL T20 games are on. Head to Hard Rock Cafe to enjoy some matches, great food and interesting drinks all through the IPL season. Where: Hard Rock Cafe, Banjara Hills, Rd No 1 When: Ongoing, 4pm-8pm Contact: (040) 4476 7900
Pratibimb 2k12 A six day acting workshop from April 12 onwards will be held by Sutradhaar. Where: Sutradhar Casting Agency, Himayathnagar When: April 12 onwards, 9pm onwards Contact: 98480 52541
Hard Kaur live Popular pop singer Hard Kaur will be performing live along with various other cultural events Where: Hitex exhibition Centre, Madhapur When: April 14, 7.30 pm onwards Contact: (040) 2311 2121
Go Splash Splash lounge is the perfect
leisure destination for you to unwind. Where: The Westin, Mindspace, Madhapur When: Monday - Friday, 5pm - 10.30pm Weekends, 8am - 10.30pm Contact: (040) 6767 6828
Water colours Iconart is hosting Aquarelle as a part of it’s Buy Art initiative. Where: Iconart Gallery, Banjara Hills, Rd No 12 When: Ongoing, 11.30 am onwards Contact: 98499 6879
Asian barbeque The Square, Novotel, Madhapur plays host to an Asian barbeque. Sample grilled specialities from around the world. Where: The Square, Novotel, Madhapur When: Every Saturday, 7pm onwards Contact: (040) 6682 4422
Crepes and waffles Lover of waffles and crepes? Deli9 is offering a crepe and waffle festival. The festival is till April 21. Where: Delhi 9, Banjara Hills, Rd No 1 When: Ongoing, 8am onwards Contact: (040) 6550 6662
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
Hyper Local
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012
Campaigns, hard news and spirit of Twin Cities
Cop may face action M ANIL KUMAR
CRIME
School children attacked, injured Mohd Subhan mohd.s@postnoon.com
L
U Srinivas srinivas.u@postnoon.com
C
h Rajesh the special protection force (SPF) constable, who shot himself in the early hours of April 2 at the Secretariat, is now out of danger and is recovering from his injury. “He is safe and recovering and I am happy that one of my constables working for the security of the State secretariat has been saved,” said R Madhava Rao, the chief security officer (CSO). Earlier this month, Rajesh had shot himself in the chest with his SLR in front of the temple within the Secretariat premises. Talking to Postnoon after taking stock of the situation of the constables, who were on fire fighting training, Madhava Rao said that as soon as the constable returns to duty he will be asked for an explanation as to why no disciplinary action should be taken against him for attempting suicide. Madhava Rao explained, “Enough leave and time was given to Rajesh to settle his family issues and disputes that he had in his home town Nellore.” In
3
fact, the CSO has promised to arrange a loan for Rajesh once he recovers and resumes duty. In his statement, Rajesh had claimed that his SLR had misfired. However, according to police reports, Rajesh had attempted to shoot himself, but the bullet went out from his chest to the shoulder. If the bullet had hit his heart, he would not have survived, said the doctors at Apollo Hospital. Concerned for Rajesh’s well-being, Madhava Rao, said that he would try and ensure that the constable is either
posted in Nellore or some place near Nellore so that he can be close to his family. Incidentally, Rajesh’s father is also working as a police constable in Nellore. After this incident, extra care is being taken to ensure the well-being of all the constables. Only yesterday, the CSO was seen asking his team to avoid attending the fire fighting training if they had not yet taken their lunch break. “I want all of you to first have your lunch and then attend the training,” he was overheard telling the constables.
ast evening, two young men jumped before a school bus signaling the driver to stop at Nandimuslaiguda in Kishanbagh. Thinking something amiss, the driver halted the vehicle. Soon the duo butted in and with mobile phones and chains, they started hitting the school students in the bus. By the time the driver and a few teachers in the bus realised what was happening and raised alarm, several kids suffered injuries. The Bahadurpura police reached the spot a while after and caught the culprits. The City situation in the curfew-bound areas of Madannapet and Saidabad and other volatile areas remained mostly peaceful barring stray incidents. Some men moving about with sticks and bats in the Mangalhat, Kulsumpura, Mustaidpura areas last night created a flutter among the residents. Someone informed the police and patrol vans reached the spot soon after. Seeing the police, the miscreants sped away in vehicles. In the outskirts, Serilingampally, a group attacked two men. Anurag Sharma in-charge commissioner of City police is camping in Charminar, overseeing the security set up. The police have posted armed guards at places of worship in Charminar, Moghulpura, Shalibanda, Pathergatti, Gulzar House and neighbouring areas. Curfew is likely to be relaxed for the whole day tomorrow if the situation remains peaceful today.
Subscribe Today!
1 Year
Reciting solace Sana Mirza sana.m@postnoon.com
T
he Qadir Ali Baig Theatre Foundation always has something different and innovative up its sleeve. On the seventh anniversary of its formation, the foundation is paying tribute to revered revolutionary poet and film lyricist, Kaifi Azmi by presenting an evening of beautiful poetry recital. The event which is scheduled to start today by 4pm will begin with Kaifi Azmi’s daughter, Shabana Azmi unveiling the road mark along with theatre revivalist, Mohammed Ali Baig at Kaifi Azmi Road. The very same evening, the two actors will take center stage along with santoor mae-
stro, Rahul Sharma who shall play to the two celebrated artists’ recitations. For the ones who appreciate poetry, this is an evening they will enjoy with the mayor releasing the Hindi translation of Kaifi Azmi’s collection of poetry titled Kaifiyaath which is conceived and designed by Mohammed Ali Baig himself. The event is scheduled to start by 7:30pm at the Hyderabad International Convention Center. If you are interested, then tickets are available at AA Hussain, Abids; Landmark at Road No 12, Banjara Hills; Ofen at Road No 10, Banjara Hills; Walden’s at Begumpet and Sangeet Sagar near Paradise Circle. You can also book your tickets online at www.indianstage.in.
` 349/-
Subscription Offer
6 Months Hyderabad’s first afternoon newspaper
040 - 4067 2222 subscription@postnoon.com
` 199/-
Hyper Local
Campaigns, hard news and spirit of Twin Cities
ABID RASOOL KHAN, philanthrophist and educationist The mayor is young and seems to be a gogetter. The residents of Hyderabad are expecting a lot from him. His focus has to be on improving basic civic services especially in old city and remote areas of the corporation. There is a strong need to solve drinking water woes of residents.
VEDA KUMAR, Forum for Better Hyderabad He is young, dynamic and aggressive in approach when it comes solving public problems. I think he seems to have the potential to deliver things. But he needs a free hand from the party and guidance in ruling the largest civic body of the State. ZAFAR JAVEED, general secretary, Federation of AP Minorities Institutions The mayor is young and seems to have lot of confidence. I think he needs to focus on civic services in a comprehensive manner. His behaviour in public life and response to popular woes are good. He should continue it.
Prominent citizens speak up
RAMESH HAZARI, Telangana journalists' forum coordinator The mayor has zeal and seems to be striving to achieve his goals. His leadership qualities, administrative efficiency, political sagacity, and behaviour in public life are good. He is also responding immediately to many civic problems.
GOPAL AGGARWAL, industrialist His performance is very poor. He did not come up to the expectations. He failed in all areas.
GADDAR, Telangana praja front chief and revolutionary poet He is young and dynamic and has the hunger to do something. His most important focus should be on developing Old City, which is synonymous with the history of the Hyderabad city. The corporation is facing a lot of problems in terms of delivering services like water supply, health, employment and education. The mayor should focus on addressing these problems.
B PRAKASH, BJP floor leader The mayor does not have the power to take his own decisions and is acting as a puppet for the MIM party. He does not have a hold on corporation officials and gives his nod to whatever they ask. This will not help the corporation in solving public problems. In the last 100 days, he is also biased in his approach. However, there seems to be a bit of improvement in sanitation services since the last few weeks. PROF HARA GOPAL, intellectual and noted civil rights activist His young age and enthusiasm will definitely help him in serving the corporation. But of late, I have not seen much news about this man in the media. He should be active in public life and serve the public M VIJAYALAKSHMI, member Lions Club Hyderabad East He’s promising and capable of delivering things. He is however, ignoring interior and remote areas of the corporation in terms of civic services.
S SRINIVAS REDDY, TDP floor leader Well, the mayor should immediately focus on implementing all the resolutions passed by the standing committee and during general body meetings as many of these important resolutions are being ignored by the officials. The works on Storm Water Drains (SWD) have not yet begun. He should also focus on getting funds from the State and Central governments for the prestigious COP-11. The mayor should also allocate `1,000 crore special package for the development of facilities like water supply and sewerage line construction in erstwhile municipalities which were merged to form GHMC in 2007 as they contribute over 40 per cent of property tax to the corporation.
‘20K jobs per year is my aim’ N SHIVA KUMAR
P
ostnoon met mayor Mohd Majid Hussain on the eve of his completing 100 days in office. How will you summarise your achievements in 100 days? From day 1, I have plunged headlong into civic problems the population has faced. The pin-point programmes and zonal level programmes introduced by me helped understand the basic needs of the residents. I also got the opportunity to interact with residents directly and solve their problems immediately. My latest decision to give powers to DMCs to spend `5 lakh will help officials to immediately to solve popular problems. What are your plans for the next 100 days? In the next 100 days my priority will be to ensure proper sanitation services as I am aiming for the Clean and Green city award for GHMC in the next two years. I’ll do anything to achieve it. Job melas every month is my second priority. I am aiming at providing employment for 3,000 youth through these melas ever month with an overall target of over 20,000 jobs each year. This was late
Sultan Salahuddin Owaisi’s dream and I am feel honoured that I can fulfill his dream in such a short time. You have no money to host the world CBD. How do you plan it? We are still optimistic that the State will come forward and give us money to make the arrangements. On our part, the standing committee of the corporation has given its approval for undertaking over `400 crore works to beautify the City ahead of the conference. I am absolutely against spending even a single rupee from our pocket. But, since the event is a prestigious one, I am ready to spend `50 to `75 crore to make the arrangements for the conference. How is your equation with the Congress ministers and MLAs from the City? Don’t you find it weird as they skip general body meetings? My equation with city-based ministers is good and they are cooperative as well. When it comes to not attending general body meetings as ex-officio members, I think they were unable to attend these meetings as they are busy politicians.
Interview
‘I’ll get the City Clean & Green Award’
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012
For any metro the municipal corporation, not the State government, matters most because nine out of 10 problems citizens face are linked to civic administration. And, in a municipal corporation, the mayor is the face and inspiration. The youngest mayor of Hyderabad, Mohd Majid Hussain completes 100 days in office today. Postnoon checked with 10 prominent citizens including political leaders of the GHMC to evaluate his first 100 days performance. Overall, he has scored fairly well but his administrative efficiency and knowledge of civic issues need brushing up, it seems. However, his initiatives like pin-point programmes to identify public grievances, zonal level meetings auger well for the citizens.
Rate Card
7.2 10
Overall Score 1
Leadership quality
5
points
2
Knowledge of civic issues
6
points
3
Administrative efficiency
5
4
Political sagacity
7
5
Honesty & sincerity in public dealings
6
Behaviour in public life
7 7
4&5
points
7
Response to popular woes
8
His equation with other parties in GHMC
9
Improvement in civic service in 100 days
points points points
10 Lifestyle, work style
7
points
7
points
4
points
6
points
Future plans
1 2 3 4
Organisation of mega event COP-11 in October, ready to spend `50 to `75 crore from GHMC's own pocket Providing 2,500-3,000 jobs every month to unemployed youth of corporation by holding zone wise job melas every month Expansion of narrow roads of old city Focus on implementing Greater Hyderabad Development Plan (GHDP) in its spirit
The mayor’s achievements Introduction of `1 crore budget for corporators
1 2
Conduct of zonal level meetings to identify zonal levels civic problems
5
Redress of over 15,000 grievances by direct intervention
3
6 7
4
8 9
Granting powers to Deputy Municipal Commissioner to undertake `5 lakh worth works identified in pin point programmes Over 2,000 unemployed youth are being inducted for providing various skill based training
Abolition of contract system in sanitation wing
Enhancement of ex-gratia for victims of accidents from `50,000 to `1 lakh Surprise visits to monitor the delivery of services Allow DMCs to spend `5 lakh on urgent civic needs
Hyper Local
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012
Campaigns, hard news and spirit of Twin Cities
6
At Osmania, Centre for Ocean Studies gets that sinking feeling In light of the recent tsunami alert along our coast, Postnoon takes a look at Osmania University’s Center For Indian Ocean Studies located, a centre with great possibilities but one which is struggling to stay afloat RONALDO
Sudeshna Koka sudeshna.k@postnoon.com
O
smania University prides itself on hosting the first Centre for Indian Ocean Studies, which has been in operation since 1919. The primary objective of the courses offered at the Centre is to study the different countries and regional issues in the Indian Ocean region. Although it began on a positive note, midway the centre lost its way and is now struggling for survival. The institute once offered an M.Phil, PhD and a Research Methodology course, but today it’s been reduced to a centre with less than 20 PhD students. Over the last 28 years, the institute has conferred only 25 PhDs and only one of them has been published in a journal. The faculty members don’t have a clue what happened to the rest. “It’s very difficult to give a correct figure for the number of PhDs given and also we do not keep track of how many research papers have been published,” said Geetha Reddy, director of the centre. Another shortcoming observed was a lack of faculty. The centre has the potential to conduct research in a variety of topics, but there are only four professors who can guide research students. Their expertise lies in urban development and regional planning, geopolitics, energy and environment studies, climate change and disaster management — and they too are ‘on loan’ from other departments. The HoD herself is from the Geography department. “We want to take in more students but each guide can take only six to eight students. Also, students take a long time to finish their research, hence we cannot take in new students at short intervals,” said the director. In terms of data collection, since 1984, the centre has a repository of all documents and information culled from all Indian newspapers and other sources on issues related to the Indian Ocean region. The centre aims to transfer all the information into an ‘Indian Ocean data bank’ which would be the first-of-its-kind in the world. Despite having all the information, lack of sufficient funds is stopping them from doing so.
INTO THE DEEP BLUE YONDER
1.5m
The number of ocean-dwelling species that have been classified by scientists
Is the percentage of toxic contaminants in the ocean that come from runoff via rivers and streams
33%
44%
The percentage of toxic contaminants that are caused by air pollution and end up in oceans and coastal waters
The percentage of the oceans’ volume that is comprised by the dark, cold environment we call ‘deep sea’
90%
“We want to start several new projects but can’t. We cannot transfer the information into the Indian Ocean data bank as we do not have the right people to do the job. If we do this, we would be the first country to have such a massive area-specific data bank. If the data bank goes online, we can earn lakhs of rupees by selling the information,” says Reddy, with a tinge of bitterness. The centre received only `25 lakh funding for a five-year plan. Faculty members claim that their expenses are much more than `25 lakh.
Calculating all the expenses for conducting research, the institute has requested the Ministry of Human Resource Development, the Ministry of External Affairs and the UGC to grant `1 core in the next five-year plan for the institute. The only saving grace for the centre is its international exchange programme with Saarc countries. The institute is in talks with other South-Asian countries and only if this works in their favour, can we expect a revamp at the centre which is now nothing but a struggling department.
Hyper Local
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012
Campaigns, hard news and spirit of Twin Cities
7
N SHIVA KUMAR & M ANIL KUMAR
CLASSIFIEDS FABRICATION
TRAINING
When it rains, it pours EDUCATION
‘Review SEZ’ NEW DELHI: Alleging misuse of the SEZ policy by private companies, Congress MP Hanumantha Rao wrote to the Prime Minister demanding a review.
We all love those mid-summer showers that bring respite from the scorching heat. But Hyderabadis were taken by surprise as heavy showers lashed the City yesterday.
17,363.86 31.24
5,294.15 17.30
BSE
NSE
Business
10g= `29,100
GOLD
1kg= `57,200
SILVER
`51.40
DOLLAR
Matters of saving and spending
Know risks before the plunge Money Matters Nupur Pavan Bang
O
n my way to ISB on Monday, I saw a motorcyclist speeding on the Gachibowli road hit a car taking a u-turn. The car was damaged and the motorcyclist suffered good deal of injuries. On enquiry, the rider said that he was in a hurry to meet his sister who was not well. This got me thinking about the risks people take in their lives. Even though we read about accidents due to speeding very frequently, we still drive fast to save a few minutes. A cricketer tries to hit a six with every ball, taking the risk of getting caught on or near the boundary. An investor faces similar risks. In order to earn higher returns, investors often take risks which may not be compatible with either their risk appetite or risk taking ability. Taking a sip of the coffee, Prof. Nicky asks Srikanth, “Have you watched the movie 3 Idiots?” Srikanth: Of course. Who hasn’t? Prof. Nicky: Do you remember the scene where ‘Virus’, summoned Raju and Farhan to his office and told them to leave the company of Rancho? Srikanth, proudly: I remember the entire movie, dialogue by dialogue. I’ve watched it 23 times. Prof. Nicky: And how many times have you read Yasaswy’s book on investments?
Infosys net up 27 per cent BANGALORE: The Infosys Ltd on Friday reported net profit of `2,316 crore for the fourth quarter of fiscal 201112, registering 27.4 per cent year-on-year (YoY) growth, but 2.4 per cent lower sequentially. The IT bellwether said its consolidated revenue for the quarter grew 22.1% YoY to `8,852 crore from `7,250 crore but declined 4.8 % sequentially. Under the International Financial Reporting Standards, net income grew 15.2% YoY to $463 million and consolidated revenue by 10.5 %YoY to $1.77 billion for the last quarter of fiscal 2012.
Srikanth, descending down to the earth: Uhhh... Prof. I was about to start reading it the coming weekend... I Uhhh…thought... uhhhh... Prof. Nicky: Ok. Coming back to 3 Idiots. So what was ‘Virus’ trying to explain to Raju and Farhan by comparing the income of their families with that of Rancho’s? Srikanth: Ummm…I guess he was trying to tell them that they cannot afford to be thrown out of the course as passing and getting a good job was very important for them. Their families were not as well to do as Rancho’s. Prof. Nicky: Exactly. This means that they do not have the risk taking ability, even though they have the appetite. Generally youngsters, with lesser responsibilities, single status, have more appetite to take risk. Srikanth: But an investor wants
returns. How are all this connected to returns? Prof. Nicky: Alas, that what the investors don’t understand and that’s what I am trying to explain to you. There are different asset classes like Bonds, Equities, Commodities, Gold, Derivatives, Art and Artifacts, Real-Estate, etc, available for an investor to invest in. Each one of them has a risk profile of their own. I can see that I am losing you. Let me explain. Risk has a negative connotation in our day to day life, but not entirely so in the case of Investments. The uncertainty or deviation from expected returns is known as risk in the case of investments. For example, if you invest in the shares of Reliance Industries Limited, with an expectation to earn 20 per cent return in one year, an actual return of — 30 per cent is a deviation from the expectation, just
Vasathi Housing launches gated community project Postnoon News
V
asathi Housing has launched a new gated community project, Navya, located at Chintal, catering to the middle class. The second project of the company in the City, Navya is a self-contained gated community spread around 2.8 acres, comprising 190 configured 2BHK apartments priced at `2,200 per sqft excluding amenities. “Our insights in the real estate industry have shown us that a serious discontent exists amongst the home buyers regarding delays in the project delivery. This observation has
inspired us to ensure that we deliver projects on time enabling early and best return on investment to the buyers with less easy monthly installment (EMI) burden due to rental savings,” said PV Ravindra Kumar, CEO. “We have already invested `50 crore, and have the commitment from our parent company for a further investment of up to `100 crore. We expect to achieve revenues of `100 crore this year and `200-250 crore next year, making us one of the fastest growing residential focused real estate players in India. We are also envisaging an IPO in the next two years,” added Kumar.
`81.95
as a return of 30 per cent. If you take the case of fixed deposit in a bank, you get as much as you expect. So it is riskless, unless the bank goes bankrupt. But in the case of Reliance, your returns would depend on the performance of the company, the dividends, the future projects etc. So the uncertainty is much more. Srikanth: I get it. So if I do not have the risk taking ability, I should not put my money in risky assets. But if I do have the risk taking ability as well as the appetite for it, I can invest in risky assets, though I should be aware of the risks that I am taking. Prof. Nicky: Ah… there you go… Perfect… I couldn’t have put it better! The author is a senior researcher at Centre for Investment, Indian School of Business
POUND FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012 8 NUMEROLOGY
440
per cent
is the final divident announced by IT major Infosys.
THUS SPAKE “The accusation of collusion against Apple is simple not true. “The launch of the iBookstore in 2010 fostered innovation and competition, breaking Amazon’s monopolistic grip on the publishing industry.” Tom Neumayr Apple spokesman
RUPEE POWER
Google reports $2.8 bn profit
In a clear sign of its increasing influence on the global financial stage, India has joined Consultative Group to Assist the Poor (CGAP), the independent policy and research centre housed at the World Bank dedicated to improving financial access for the world’s poor. India is the first of the new donors from emerging markets to join CGAP, which has traditionally been one of the pivotal proving grounds for a range of financial access initiatives. “India’s inclusion as CGAP member showcases the shift in economic leadership in the world,” said Tilman Ehrbeck, CGAP’s chief executive officer.
ASIAN TIGERS
SAN FRANCISCO: Google on Thursday delivered a double-shot of good news, announcing soaring profits and plans for a long-desired stock split that will make its shares easier to trade. Google reported a profit of $2.89 billion on revenue of $10.65 billion in the quarter ended March 31. Google’s board is supporting a plan to create non-voting stock that would be doled out in the form of dividends to existing shareholders. The intent is to give investors a long-desired twoto-one stock split while keeping Larry Page and Sergey Brin in command.
India and China have made important in-roads into reducing poverty, a top International Monetary Fund (IMF) official said, adding at the same time with high growth, they have also seen rising inequality. “India and China too have made important in-roads into reducing poverty. Yet, with high growth, they have also seen rising inequality. Those inequalities need more attention. So we need growth. We need equitable growth. We need inclusive growth,” IMF Managing Director, Christine Lagarde, said.
Magic Screen
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012
The glamour behind the glitz
10
TREADING A DIFFERENT PATH After a gap of four years, Teja is making a comeback with his new film Neeku Naaku Dash Dash. He tells us more about the film and why he will never change Hemanth Kumar hemanth.k@postnoon.com
T
eja's reputation as a hard taskmaster is something of a legend in the Telugu film industry. Right from his famous temper to the hardships which the actors have had to go through is all known. After a gap of four years, he's making a comeback with his brand new film Neeku Naaku Dash Dash. Ask him if he has changed as a
person in the past few years, he replies, "I will not change and I don't want to change. I believe that if you are born with certain qualities, they'll not change till your death. People act like they have changed according to the circumstances. But I am not like that. If I am a short tempered person, I can only show it where I can afford it." Perhaps it's this attitude of living his life on his own terms which can be seen in his films too. From Chitram to his last film Keka, almost every film had set itself apart, although not all of them were successful. "I have had my share of hits and flops. Some films were really bad. When you are working with a huge team, we are forced to play to the galleries. I can give you a 1,000 reasons why a film failed but what's the point of discussing that. Failures have reasons while success has results," he adds. He began his career as a cinematographer and in the beginning, he worked on numerous Hindi films. Has anything changed with respect to Telugu cinema in the past two decades? "Nothing has changed. Neither the technique
nor the technicians have changed. In fact, Rajinikanth's Basha is the Bhagavad Geeta for most of our films today. Take any hero's big hit, it's just a rehash of Basha," he says with a smile. It's been 12 years since Teja made his debut as a director and so far he has introduced 297 actors and technicians to film industry. In NNDD he's introducing 42 more actors and technicians. That's a mind boggling number. We wonder if he makes it a
point to work with newcomers most of the time. "If I cast a big star, there are already lot of restrictions on what he can or can't do. There must be six songs and six fights, an interval bang and the climax has to be huge. The hero shouldn't cry or get hurt. Within this framework, there's very little scope for experimentation. I can't write scripts like that," Teja explains and adds, "When I work with newcomers, there are no expectations on the film and there's a lot of scope to experiment." In the past, Teja had directed Mahesh Babu starrer Nijam and last year, Teja was supposed to direct a film with Venkatesh in lead role. However, the latter film got shelved. What happened? "I guess the hero wasn't
comfortable with the characterisation," Teja says leaving a lot for us to read between the lines. Neeku Naaku Dash Dash, which opened in screens today, might have never seen the light if Teja wasn't adamant about what he wanted to do. "When I wrote the script back in June 2011, people didn't relate to the concept and I was told that people won't like it. I was adamant which irked a lot of people. Some of them even left the project. To get a better perspective of what I wanted to do, I went to Dhoolpet to see how illicit liquor was brewed and how famous brands are refilled with hooch. This research has helped me immensely in the film. It's just a coincidence that liquor mafia is all over the news these days," Teja recalls. He informs us that the Dash Dash has no vulgar meaning at all. "Actually, the heroine in this film has the habit of saying 'dash' to convey an emotion. Be it anger, love or comedy, she always ends the sentence with 'dash'. I can guarantee that people will fall in love with the heroine's character," he says. Prince and Nandita are making their debut in this film.
What does he think of his new finds? "I'll leave that to the audience. I am a very greedy when it comes to quality. Whatever I do, I am never satisfied," Teja signs off.
Rajinikanth's Basha is the Bhagavad Geeta for most of our films today. Take any hero's big hit, it's just a rehash of Basha," Teja
India‑View
11
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012
India unveiled
Kashmir farmer’s lantern ‘sings’ to keep him alive SRINAGAR: Tired of being found naked in his sleep every time soldiers searched his house during operations at the peak of militancy, Gulam Mohammad Mir, a farmer with no formal education, struck an idea to escape his tribulations. Mir, habitual to sleeping without clothes, developed a ‘singing lantern’, powered by a dry battery, fitted with a remote sensor that will alert him to human movement near his house in Sagaam village in Kokernag area of Anantnag district and give him enough time to dress up. The 48-year-old farmer, who recently participated at the innovators’ meet at University of Kashmir, claims that the “singing lantern” has saved his life many times. Over the last 20 years, many Kashmiri men have been killed during nights when they ventured out of their homes without lanterns and walked into army ambushes. Many were beaten, simply, for not carrying the lantern. Mir knew the new ground rules well and was still beaten many times when the lantern’s oil would not last the journey or when the winds would blow out the lantern’s flame. It was when the idea stuck him of having a battery-powered lantern and after several visits to the market for raw material, he began assembling his battery-fitted lantern ready. Mir could have used a torch instead? “Torches were banned, soldiers could have mistaken a
person with a torch as a militant. Traditional lantern would mean you are a civilian,” he said. While spending his nights out in the field, irrigating them and guarding them, Mir felt that
boredom needs to be done with. Soon he included the option of having a radio in the lantern and he would spend nights listening to Bollywood songs. One night, Mir was sleeping
inside his house when soldiers barged in. Mir, habitual to sleeping without clothes, was found by soldiers without clothes and beaten again, he said. This led to another modification in the lantern — he included a motion sensor with a range of 15 feet, enough time to alert him. “When the soldiers came next time, I was alerted by an alarm and I already had my clothes on when they came,” he said. Has his lantern saved him from beatings? “Yes,” he said. “When soldiers would stop me, they would be surprised by seeing a different lantern, and then I would show them the radio in it. They would enjoy a song and let me go,” Mir said. Today, Mir, with his humble farming background, is a proud owner of a lantern and a workshop at his home where he manufactures them for others. “I have so far sold 20 such lanterns. The one with full range of features costs `2,800 and another with lesser features costs `1,600,” he said. How could Mir with no technical knowledge of electronics fix circuits and come up with such a complex design. “I do not know, it became my passion and it simply worked out,” he said. Shabir Ahmad, the technical officer at Grassroots innovation and Augmentation Network (GIAN) cell JK — which provided “incubation” and research help to Mir in the later stage, said this lantern will help the traditional lantern to live on, “though in a different format”. PTI
Afreen, Falak... will this change? Minu Jain
A
nother baby girl killed before she got a chance at life, another father unable to contain his disappointment at begetting a daughter, another mother mourning her child and her helplessness. The sickeningly familiar story has been repeated in Bangalore with the death of three-month-old Afreen from burns and bites allegedly by her father. It is the latest chapter in the sorry tale of women in India, where regressive practices and age-old traditions continue to sit uneasily with claims of progress and rising economic prowess. Afreen died of grievous head injuries, a dislocated neck,
cigarette burns and even bite marks, just three days after she was admitted to hospital. Her mother Reshma, just 19 and as much a victim, sobbed uncontrollably as she recalled her husband’s brutal assault on the baby because he wanted a male child. In a continuing chain of exploitation, Reshma, it is reported, also alleged that her husband, car painter Umar Farooq, tried to poison her and harassed her for dowry. She did attempt to fight back and even approached the Bangalore Child Welfare Committee. But it was clearly a losing battle for the young mother and her infant daughter. In the end, despite the very best in healthcare, Afreen died of a cardiac
arrest on Wednesday. Less than a month ago, on March 16, another baby died in horrifically similar circumstances, also in the public gaze. The subject of countless headlines, two-year-old Falak also had a cardiac arrest and died after 60 days at New Delhi’s All India Institute of Medical Sciences, unable to recover from the broken skull, fractured limbs and bite marks inflicted on her. Falak, like Afreen, was just the smallest link in a chain of sexual exploitation and gender disparity. Hers was a twisted tale of human trafficking that revealed a fresh atrocity at each turn. It started with her biological mother, the victim of an abu-
sive husband, and ended with a 14-year-old girl, who took the battered baby to hospital and claimed to be her mother. She was of course not the mother. Barely a teen, she was just another oppressed girl who was trafficked herself and given custody of the baby by her abusive boyfriend. And this is the proverbial tip of a very deep iceberg in a country where there are only 914 women for every 1,000 men. For every Falak and Afreen, there are millions of girls who die in oblivion, or are killed in the womb itself. Like the twoday-old child in Madhya Pradesh’s Gwalior town who was given nicotine by another father desperate for a son.
NATION AT A GLANCE Man arrested for killing girl who resisted rape LUCKNOW: A man was arrested for killing a girl after failing to molest her police sources said here. The body of Kshama Yadav, 19, who was missing since April 9 evening from her house in Senwa village, was recovered from the fields the next day, they said. Police said that on the basis of investigations, Dalveer Singh was arrested and he confessed to the crime. Dalveer said that he called the girl at his house and attempted to molest her and when she raised an alarm he strangulated her, police claimed. They said that the girl’s scarf and mobile phone were recovered from Dalveer’s possession.
Another girl child abandoned by parents GURGAON: Showcasing the prejudiced mindset of society once again, a couple abandoned their one-and-a-half year old girl child at the Civil hospital here. The couple seemingly from a wellto-do family, left their girl with an old lady sitting at the compound of Civil Hospital, yesterday. When the couple did not return, the lady informed the hospital authorities who took custody of the child and intimated police.
Farmers from drought-hit areas of Maharashtra selling their bulls at an animal market in Karad on Thursday. PTI
Aarushi case addressed with bomb hoax NEW DELHI: Police went to check whether a bomb had been placed in a DTC bus in central Delhi but instead got a box of sweets with a letter claiming that the Aarushi murder case will be solved soon. The incident was reported late on Thursday night in Paharganj. Police received a call from an unidentified person that a bomb was placed in a DTC bus. Immediately, a bomb disposal team and dog squad were rushed to the spot but they found nothing except the box of sweets and the letter. CBI had recently raided Aarushi’s parent’s residence in south Delhi’s Hauz Khaz to arrest her mother Nupur.
NAC wants RTE changed to assist disabled kids NEW DELHI: The National Advisory Council wants the human resource development ministry to amend the right to education law to ensure that disabled children have the choice to study either in an ordinary or a special school. “The HRD ministry should amend the act to ensure that the RTE to all children with disabilities is safeguarded,” said the draft guidelines framed by the council’s working group on the rights of the disabled.
Around the World
12
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012
Beyond Borders
Axl Rose guns down Hall of fame honour
LOS ANGELES: Guns N’ Roses star Axl Rose says he will not attend a weekend ceremony to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame — even if the music pantheon insists it will admit him anyway. In an open letter published on Wednesday, Rose said he doesn’t want to be admitted to the prestigious club, either in person or in absentia, along with former bandmates and other acts at the Hall of Fame’s annual ceremony on Saturday. In the lengthy missive to the Los Angeles Times music blog, he cited the various lineups of the hard rock band over the years, saying he did not oppose other ex-members turning up to the Hall of Fame show in Cleveland, Ohio.
File photo shows Axl Rose performing at the MTV Video Music Awards. AFP
“For the record, I would not begrudge anyone from Guns their accomplishments or recognition for such. Neither I or anyone in my camp has made any requests or demands of the Hall Of Fame. It’s their show not mine. “That said, I won’t be attending The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Induction 2012 Ceremony and I respectfully decline my induction as a member of Guns N’ Roses to the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame,” he said. Guns N’ Roses reigned over the hard rock scene from 1987 to 1993, selling close to 100 million albums with its potent mix of metal and nihilistic punk showcased in epic anthems Welcome to the Jungle and Sweet Child O’ Mine.
The band’s last album of original material was released in 1994. Rose is the only remaining original member of the group, which was formed in Los Angeles in 1985. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame announced its inductees in February, including Guns N’ Roses, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, the Beastie Boys and Donovan, all of whom are expected to be at Saturday’s show. Rose said, however, that he won’t be attending and doesn’t want the honour anyway. A spokeswoman for the Hall of Fame said “We are sorry Axl will not be able to accept his induction in person,” but added that “he will still be acknowledged in the induction ceremony — he just won’t be present. AFP
‘McBaguette’ unwelcome in France PARIS: The fast food giant McDonald’s has sparked a passionate debate in France over its plans to introduce the “McBaguette”. The product will be trialed in the chain’s 1,230 test restaurants for six weeks from April 18 as part of an attempt to adapt to French tastes, NewsCore says. McDonald’s France’s vice president for marketing Nawfal Trabelsi says the McBaguette consists of “a crispy baguette, served hot, with beef, a slightly strong whole grain mustard sauce and ripe Emmental cheese.” However, the launch of the product has already met with
DOWN TO THE LAST DROP AFP/NORBERTO DUARTE
View of the Iguazu Falls form the Brazilian side in Foz de Iguazu, Brazil. The waterfall system — 2.7 km long consists of 275 falls, and has an annual peak flow of some 6,500 cubic meters a second. An acute drought has hit the falls which straddle two countries, cutting back the tumbling waters to reveal the rocky sides. Only a third of the usual volume of water is now flowing.
some opposition from French food lovers. The French current affairs magazine Le Nouvel Observateur suggests its “an assault by McDonald’s on bakeries.” “With the McBaguette and the other pastries it already sells McDonald’s is attacking a jewel of French gastronomy,” one industry expert remarks. “If the McBaguette is a success, McDonald’s can then look at selling other classics like the ham and butter sandwich and challenge, even more, the neighborhood bistros.” French consumers have only recently converted to fast food, Europe 1 says, explaining that the fast food market grew from about US$26 billion in 2004 to nearly US$43 billion last year. McDonald’s pretax turnover for 2012 was US$5.5 billion. GLOBALPOST
Dinosaurs from space may have advanced intelligence
R
esearch on the mysteries of homochirality in amino acids, sugars, and nucleosides on prebiotic earth takes an odd turn toward the possibility of cunning dinosaurs on distant planets. Few scientific papers stir much interest in the general population. At first glance, the paper, “Evidence for the Likely Origin of Homochirality in Amino Acids, Sugars, and Nucleosides on Prebiotic Earth” in the Journal of the American Chemical Society by
Ronald Breslow of Columbia University, appears too dense and impenatrable for anyone without a PhD in chemistry. However, at the end of Breslow’s paper, the tone changes and the imagination is stirred when he speculates that there may indeed be living dinosaurs on other planets that have human intelligence or greater.
According to TG Daily, Breslow’s report takes on a more serious topic, that of the mystery of why the building blocks of terrestrial amino acids, sugars, and the genetic materials DNA and RNA take only one shape and only two possible orientations. The mystery goes back to the origins of life itself. One theory that Breslow agrees with is that mete-
orites carried certain amino acids billions of years ago ‘seeding’ the earth. Thus, according to Smithsonian, the planet’s flora and fauna would be constrained by their characteristics. This might mean that on other planets there was an opposite biochemical orientation than that of life on earth. Though just speculation, space dinosaurs, it seems, might not just be in the imagination of Star Trek creators after all. GLOBALPOST
Around the World
13
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012
Beyond Borders
N Korea rocket fizzles out
GLOBE AT A GLANCE 3 dead, six injured in German train collision
PYONGYANG: North Korea on
BERLIN:Three people died and six others were injured, one seriously, when a regional train collided with a works engine in the central town of Muhlheim am Main early on Friday, police said. The FrankfurtHanau train, with 35 passengers aboard, was derailed after hitting a train engine equipped with a crane, according to police. The train driver and two workers were killed.
Friday launched a long-range rocket that disintegrated soon after blast-off in what the United States and Asian nations condemned as a provocative act threatening regional security. North Korea had said the rocket was aimed at putting a satellite in orbit for peaceful research purposes, but Western critics see it as a disguised ballistic missile test, banned by United Nations resolutions. “North Korea is only further isolating itself by engaging in provocative acts, and is wasting its money on weapons and propaganda displays while the North Korean people go hungry,” White House spokesman Jay Carney said. North Korea’s official media admitted that the rocket had failed to enter its orbit, adding in a brief statement that “scientists, technicians and experts are now looking into the cause of the failure”. South Korea's defence ministry said the rocket, which lifted off at 7.39am, “flew about one or two minutes before it exploded mid-air”. “We are keeping a close watch over the North for further provocative acts such as missile tests and a nuclear test,” the ministry said, referring to fears the launch could be followed by North Korea’s third atomic test. The South’s foreign minister Kim Sung-Hwan said that Friday’s actions were a “clear breach of the UN resolution that prohibits any launch using ballistic missile technology. It is a provocative act threatening peace and security.”
Security Council calls for truce among Sudans KHARTOUM:The leaders of Sudan and South Sudan accused each other of seeking war, prompting a UN Security Council call on Thursday for an immediate ceasefire after days of fighting over the contested border. Heavy clashes, have brought the two former foes the closest to a return to outright war.
Extra edition of a newspaper carrying a story on “North Korean missile fails to launch” are handed out at the Ginza shopping district in Tokyo on April 13, 2012. Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Osamu Fujimura also condemned Pyongyang's move. “Even if it was a failure, it is a grave provocation to our country and other countries concerned and violates UN Security Council resolutions,” he said. The North American Aerospace Command (NORAD) said that together with the US military’s Northern Command it “detected and tracked a launch of the North Korean missile.” It said that initial findings
indicated that the first stage of the rocket fell into the sea 165 kilometres west of the South Korean capital Seoul. “The remaining stages were assessed to have failed and no debris fell on land,” it said. “The Group of Eight powers led condemnation over the launch which defied repeated warnings from global powers, and said they would consider taking appropriate actions at the UN Security Council which will meet later on Friday.
AFP
The preparations for the launch had triggered regional alarm in recent days. Tokyo deployed missile defence systems to intercept and destroy the rocket and flights were diverted to avoid being in the area where debris from the rocket was expected to fall. North Korea had insisted the launch would not be a banned missile test tests. China, a key diplomatic ally of North Korea was yet to comment on the launch Friday after it was confirmed. AFP
UK arrests 2 teens over terror leak
UN plans to send monitors to Syria amidst fragile ceasefire
LONDON: British police
DAMASCUS: A fragile and hard-won ceasefire appeared to be holding in Syria as Western nations on Friday began drawing up plans to send UN monitors to the conflict-torn nation. “I am encouraged by reports that the situation in Syria is relatively calm and that the cessation of hostilities appears to be holding,” the UN-Arab League envoy Kofi Annan said in a statement. But as the government of Syrian President Bashar alAssad and the rebels traded accusations of trying to wreck the ceasefire, Annan insisted Thursday that “all parties have obligations to implement fully the six-point plan.” “What has happened today does not constitute full compliance by the Syrian government,” Annan was quoted as saying. “Syrian troops and armour must
on Thursday arrested two teenaged boys in connection with the release of recorded conversations between staff on the country’s anti-terrorist hotline. Hacking group Team Poison uploaded a fourminute recording, apparently of conversations between staff manning the confidential service allowing people to report suspicious behaviour, to YouTube on Thursday. London’s Metropolitan Police said they were satisfied the recordings were not obtained through hacking. A Scotland Yard spokesman said detectives were questioning the youths, in the West Midland. AFP
Damages in the Bab Dreib district on April 12. AFP return to their barracks immediately,” he said. After 13 months of war, Annan said the UN Security Council must demand that troops be pulled out of cities. UN chief Ban Ki-moon said plans were being drawn up to send observers to Syria, starting with the dispatch of a UN peacekeeping general as early as
Friday. An advanced mission of 20-30 observers could be in place early next week, diplomats said. The full mission would be at least 200 monitors. Ban said “the world is watching however with sceptical eyes,” adding previous promises made by the regime “have not been kept.” A draft Security Council resolution, includes demands that Assad visibly implement his commitment to withdraw troops and guns. And it adds that if the Syrian government does not implement its commitments, the council would “consider further measures as appropriate.” Despite the prospect of tough talks, some diplomats said they were optimistic an agreement on the draft could be reached by Friday. AFP
Singer Shakira and Colombia’s First Lady Maria Clemencia Rodriguez at the launch of an education programme in Colombia. AFP
British PM in Myanmar for landmark talks NAYPYIDAW: British Prime Minister David Cameron is set to become the first Western leader in decades to visit Myanmar on Friday as European nations consider scrapping sanctions against the former pariah state.Cameron is due to hold talks with Myanmar’s reformist President Thein Sein as well as Opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi.
Florida executes man who killed six women WASHINGTON:The state of Florida executed a man on Thursday night who admitted raping and murdering six women, some of whom were dismembered. David Alan Gore, 58, who spent nearly 30 years on death row, was pronounced dead at 6.19 pm local time after receiving a lethal injection, state prison spokeswoman Jo Ellyn Rackleff told AFP.
Dioncounda Traore receives a salute from a junta leader during his swearing in as Mali’s new interim leader in Bamako. AFP
Comment
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012
Fair, free and forthright
Editorials STAR POWER WON’T stop racial profiling
Y
ou don’t need to be an intelligent investigator to pick the odd one out as a suspect when you are a US immigration official. All you need to do is go through the list, concentrate on the surnames, particularly of Indians, and zero-in on a Khan. Doesn’t matter even if the rest of the name is Shah Rukh and the owner of the name is Bollywood’s long-standing heartthrob, whose movies do big business in that very US of A. So what if the business pages of your daily scream themselves hoarse of India’s phenomenal financial growth? So what even if India’s increasing influence on the global financial stage is proved by its joining the Consultative Group to Assist the Poor? At the end of the day, it is the might of Uncle Sam that is going to call the shots. It is the yet-thesuperpower that is going to continue policing the world. Well King Khan, two hours detention is a small price paid to join the list that boasts of George W Bush, Ronald Reagan and Jimmy Carter. Forget the dubious list you share with George Fernandes and APJ Abdul Kalam.
WHY WE LOVE Anti-tobacco lobby
B
ritish Health Secretary Andrew Lansley has suggested that cigarette packets could be stripped of all branding. The move against tobacco has been gaining strength, and it’s time the price of the killer sticks in India be made prohibitive enough to deter smokers.
14
Speeding is a one-way ticket to an early grave The Anonymous Alien
T
oday, as happens to me frequently in India, I was driving down a busy street and another car — in my lane but heading the wrong way — was approaching me at high speed. I calmly slowed my vehicle, moved as far to my left as I could and the oncoming car squeezed by. No issues, no problems. I made it to work on time. Had the same incident happened, say, on an American road, it would have been terrifying. I would have cranked the wheel over, skidded onto the shoulder, and, after the adrenalin-rush subsided, called 911 (the emergency number for the police), and reported the incident. Had the police caught the driver of the oncoming vehicle, he would have been arrested, fined and possibly thrown in jail. Who has it right? The nonchalant Indians, who seem to take such everyday incidents in stride? Or the uptight Americans, who beep and honk and call the cops when they spot a driver doing practically anything wrong. Last month, a friend of mine was driving on a single-lane road in Goa, when an oncoming car in the wrong lane forced her to crank the steering wheel left, sending her car careening into the woods. She survived, but her broken hip and wrist may never heal properly. The incident got me to thinking. In some five years in India, I have seen cops pulling a driver over for a traffic violation perhaps half a dozen times. In America and Europe, you see cops pulling people over for violations multiple times every day. Now we all know this isn’t because Indians are perfect drivers. In fact, on a nearly hourly basis when driving I see Indians doing things that I’m pretty sure are illegal and that I almost never see anywhere else and that are VERY dangerous; driving on the wrong side of the road: whipping U-turns in the middle of the street: running red lights: and, my personal favourite, stopping in the middle of the road and changing drivers. I don’t blame Indians, per say. Since there is practically no legal downside to performing acts that would land them with a big fine or in
Keep head to show hair
Fence eats crop
As a woman I think, the members of my kind are behaving quite immaturely when it comes to wearing the helmet and then saying they are the weaker neglected ones. It is like highlighting their foolishness with a red pen. If the law for helmets applies to men, then it should be equally binding on women as well. The women who are saying that we are the neglected weaker lot should think before they speak. There is no law stopping women from wearing the helmet, it's only the fear of not having a good hair day that makes them react in this manner. We must understand that to flaunt the hair, there needs to be a head. Sheila SK Secunderabad
So the way our police force is depicted in movies is not a figment of our scriptwriters’ imagination after all. While it was always suspected that the fence eating away the crop is not an unknown phenomenon with our khakiclad, catching them redhanded has happened far in-between. And this is because the law is wellknown to them and they know best how to hoodwink it. I request your reporter to follow-up the case and enlighten us of the punishment given to Renuka alias Priyanka, as it will be a deterrent to others. Indira Priyadarshini Borabanda
jail almost anywhere else, the temptations to break obvious laws is too great, so they break them. I doubt people of any other nationality would resist either. But there are HUGE consequences. India, today, has the most dangerous roads in the world. In the most recent year for which numbers are available, approximately 130,000 Indians died on India’s streets and highways. Now I know what you are thinking; it’s because there are so many people and cars in India that so many people die. Nope, sorry. If you look at the number of fatalities per number of vehicles on the road, an apples to apples comparison, India’s fatality rate is roughly 50 times higher than in the United States. 50 times. FIFTY TIMES. Think of it this way. If, for example, your twenty year-old daughter is driving home from a mall in India, she has a 50-times greater chance of getting in a fatal accident than if she’s driving home from a mall in the United States or Canada. Same, say, 10 kilometer drive. But 50 times greater odds of dying. Okay, maybe some of this is due to the poorer road conditions of a still-developing India. Maybe some of it is due to the higher per-vehicle occupancy rate. But I know a lot
TALK BACK 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
more of it is due to the fact that everyone drives dangerously in India, because they can. It’s time to put an end to this. To put some seriously healthy fines in place for whipping U-turns anywhere, anytime, and incentivise cops to enforce the fines relentlessly. Only then will people stop whipping U-turns. Throw people in jail who drive on the wrong side of the road and people like my friend will not be hobbling around with broken hips and wrists nearly as often. In short, start firing cops who don’t issue LOTS of traffic tickets, and rewarding those who do, and we all get much, much safer. Now I know the arguments against this. Corruption, abuse of power — I get it. But those are problems to be solved, not excuses to let lax enforcement contribute to 130,000 deaths per year, and countless more lifelong injuries. It’s easy to hate the idea of getting a traffic ticket, and easier still to hate actually getting one. But if it saves your kid, or your spouse, or your mum, from getting badly injured or killed, maybe a nasty little ticket is a small price to pay. In fact, maybe it’s a price we should all insist on paying. A foreigner’s observations on living, working, surviving and thriving in India.
Award our politicians
Let’s ignore rumours
The knowledge central article Deja Vu filmi ishtyle was hilarious and well-written. Truly, now when I think of it, these politicians were made only to act in movies. The one on HD Deve Gowda and Rahul Gandhi were particularly funny. But I found you dropped many important names likes Atal Behari Vajpayee, Lalu Prasad Yadav, LK Advani and Sushma Swaraj. With the way things are progressing in this country, I think soon there will be awards for politicians as well. Keep bringing us such stuff and make our days. Manoj Singh Gachibowli
Every time there is a riot, investigation leads to involvement of political individuals or parties. How long will this saga go on? Why is it so difficult for peace-ensuring authorities to pin-point these heinous troubles mongers and ensure a permanent solution to this menace? For their personal petty gains these hoodlums are ripping apart the very fabric of our diverse yet peace-loving society. It the common man that has to bear the brunt. Let’s all help end this evil. Let’s begin by ignoring rumours. Abid Ali Lakdi-ka-pul
Rhythm Nation
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012
15
The Bluegrass gospel Sana Mirza
Foot-tapping music made interesting with hilarious lyrics sung by three expats. This is what defines Banjara Hillbillies, the only Bluegrass band in India
sana.m@postnoon.com
N
ot a lot of Hyderabadis are familiar with the musical genre Bluegrass which is a form of American roots music and is a sub-genre of country music. But with India's only Bluegrass band, the Banjara Hillbillies putting up performances religiously at either Beyond Coffee or Extreme Sports Bar, it's a gig hard to ignore. “Bluegrass is American folk music. What most people call “country”, it is based on bluegrass,” explains Patrick Dempsey who plays the mandolin. Apart from being a musician, Patrick is also a librarian and a software professional. The Banjara Hillbillies are a bunch of expatriates whose love for Bluegrass music encouraged them to form a band. Quite an amusing bunch, their songs are mostly about nostalgia, love and life. The band was formed after a couple of impromptu jam sessions at a local coffee shop. “Dan McCollough who plays the banjo and is an operations manager by day had posted a notice on www.meetup.com that he was organising an open Bluegrass jam on Thursdays at Beyond Coffee. Scott Kingsbury who plays the guitar and spoons was already a regular there as he liked the food, I got notified through a friend so I decided to go too,” informs Patrick. “What happened was that we found three Americans who all love bluegrass and we wanted to get better at playing it, since we are all amateur musicians. What shocked us after several months was that people were asking us to perform. We were only practising and learning then so we had to scramble a good amount of songs to play out,” says Dan.
It’s a rather odd name for a band, the name was inspired by a 60's show called The Beverly Hillbillies where a backwater family strikes rich and moves to Beverly Hills which is a hotspot for Hollywood's rich and the famous, reveals one of the band members. “Since Banjara Hills is filled with expats and is home to the rich and the well-known from Hyderabad, we thought it
iTUNES Top 10
would make for a funny name. The only thing is that no one gets the hillbilly reference and no one back home gets the Banjara reference. So, it turns out that not many people get the joke,” explains Scott. All four of them have been living in Hyderabad for a while now and are quite familiar with the city's music scene. “Our audience tends to
We Are Young (feat. Janella Monae) Fun What Makes You Beautiful One Direction
music and musicians that are doing non-mainstream music.”When the band is not performing or playing, they like to take vacations or spend the evening watching other musicians perform. “I like watching Skrypt play,” informs Patrick. The band will be performing for brunch at the Xtreme Sports Bar, Banjara Hills, on Sunday, 12.30 pm onwards.
Bollywood Top 10
Billboard Top 10
Boyfriend Justin Bieber Somebody That I Used to Know (feat. Kimbra) Gotye Call Me Maybe Carly Rae Jepsen Glad You Came The Wanted Wild Ones (feat. Sia) Flo Rida Part of Me Katy Perry So Good B.o.B Drive By Train
be a weird mix of expatriates, curious locals and Hyderabadi musicians (who are really there because they are wondering if we have our chops together),” exclaims Patrick smiling, going on to add, “The music scene in Hyderabad is pretty good and it is definitely getting better. The need of the hour, however, is to have more venues that support live
21 Adele Amaryllis
MDNA Madonna Tuskegee Lionel Richie
Shinedown The Hunger Games:Songs from District... Soundtrack Up All Night One Direction Teenage Dream Katy Perry Vulnerable The Used Wrecking Ball Bruce Springsteen Now 41 Various Artists
Mann Jaage Bittoo Boss Tujhe Sochta Hoon Jannat 2
Raabta (Night in a Motel) Agent Vinod Rab ka Shukrana Jannat 2 Pungi Agent Vinod Tera Deedar Hua (From the Heart) Jannat 2 Tere Bina Tezz Dil Kanch Sa Hate Story Main hoon Shab Tezz Mahe Jaan Hate Story
H‑Factor
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012
Holistic view of mind, body and soul
I’ve come to terms with
MY SON’S ADDICTION Every parent has grand plans and dreams for their children. But what happens when your son walks up to you and tells you he’s a drug addict? In Gracie’s Choice, the protagonist has to struggle to keep her family together because one of them is a drug addict
Suvarna Bhambure suvarna.b@postnoon.com
W
e know an addict has a really tough time dealing with the situation they have got themselves into. They are in no state to think straight, understand things and differentiate between what’s good and bad for them. But it’s equally difficult for the family of the addict to deal with the situation. Especially the mother. It’s not easy for her to see her own blood destroy his/her life with drugs. She needs to be strong , tough and at the same time the loving mother that she is. We speak to one such woman Lakshmi (name changed on request), who has despite everything stood by her son like a pillar of support. “We were just another regular family and things were going well. Our only son was doing fairly well for himself and there wasn’t much I could complain about — until the day he confessed about his drug addiction to us. I wasn’t in town, when my son confessed about his addiction to my husband. It
had been a long time since our son had been doing drugs and it was getting harder for him to hide it from us. And when he told me about this, I simply could not believe it. Initially, I thought it was just a temporary thing and everything would be fine soon. But that wasn’t the case. For some time I was in denial, saying my son could never get into something like this. I then began blaming myself for his situation. I felt I had gone wrong somewhere in raising our son. No matter how hard I tried to keep myself busy, my thoughts always wandered back to the fact that my son was a drug addict and I was in some way responsible for it. The hardest part was seeing the drastic change in his personality. It was definitely not easy to watch him go from being a loving and caring son to somebody very cranky and selfish. I almost didn’t recognise him any more. That’s what drugs did to him. It was a complete change of personality. No matter how good a person may be, substance abuse can make them completely different. They end up doing things they’d never do when they are sober. Finally, five years after he’d gotten into the habit,
our son came up to us and said he wanted to quit drugs and he wanted our help. We took him to rehabs and counsellors. The first thing the counsellor told me was to stop blaming myself for the situation. She explained to me that the addict was solely responsible for his/her situation. That’s when I stopped blaming myself.
AS A MOTHER I FEEL THAT MY PRESENCE WILL HELP MY SON GET OUT OF THIS SITUATION, BUT THEN IT ALSO IS A FACT THAT UNLESS AND UNTIL THE ADDICT DECIDES IN HIS MIND THAT HE WANTS TO QUIT DOING DRUGS HE WON’T. ALL ONE CAN DO IS WAIT. The rehab centre strictly told us to deny any monetary help to my son and if he still continued doing drugs then ask him to leave the house. But how could I ask my own son to leave the house? Through it all, I understood that one has to be compassionate and tough at the same time. Today I have
become tough and have come to terms with the fact that my son is a drug addict. But I won’t deny that he wants to and is trying to come out of it. We cannot force an addict to quit, but just wait for them to come to terms with themselves and decide that they want to stop. When they are ready, that’s the time they will give it their best. Some of our relatives who know about my son’s addiction, feel sad about it, It pains me to have to answer questions about how he is doing. It is not easy facing them. As a mother I feel that my presence will help him get out of this situation, but then it also is a fact that until and unless the addict decides in his mind that he wants to quit doing drugs he won’t. All one can do is wait. My one advice to other mothers is that they should watch out for addictive and unusual behaviour from the beginning. Addiction is a personality trait and they often display signs early on. And addict’s mind works very differently and they very easily manipulate you. I have a wonderful son. Apart from the substance abuse, he is a beautiful human being. And this is what keeps us going.
18
Here come smart insulin pumps for diabetic kids NEW DELHI: As many as a million children suffer from Type I diabetes in India and painful for them are those insulin jabs. But smart insulin pumps are now changing things for these kids. “Type 1 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes among children. According to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), in India, there are about 10 lakh children with Type I diabetes," Neeru Gera, consultant endocrinologist, Max Hospital, Saket here said. “The first advantage of insulin pump therapy is that it could help children get relief from the daily insulin shots,” Gera added. Diabetes is of different types. For instance, Type 2 is found in people who are above 40, while gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy. Usually diabetic patients have to take insulin injections before a meal. An insulin pump brings more flexibility. Costing between `99,000 and `3,50,000, the insulin pump comes in the shape of a mechanical device, a little larger than a pager, which can be attached to a belt. It delivers fast-acting insulin into the body via an infusion set - a thin plastic tube ending in a small, flexible plastic tube or a very thin needle. One has to insert the cannula beneath the skin, usually in the abdomen or upper buttocks. A patient can keep it in the same place for two to three days. It can then be moved to a new location. “With insulin pump therapy, the concept of multiple daily injections hardly exists. The patient only needs to change his or her infusion set a maximum of 12 times per month," Shalini Jaggi, consultant diabetologist, Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute here, told IANS. When it comes to Type 1, children in the age group of 10-14 years are at a higher risk of developing it. Those suffering from the condition have to follow a strict lifestyle. Parents have to constantly keep a check on the children’s diet and exercise. “Pumps give you greater control over insulin delivery, thereby giving you more control over the onset of insulin action. That means you can determine what and when you want to eat, when and for how long you play sports, and whether or not to skip a snack or meal,” Virmani said. But certain precautions need to be taken. “An insulin pump is a mechanical device. Any malfunction of the device can have an adverse effect on the patient,” said Jaggi. “Insulin pump therapy uses only faster-acting insulin. Therefore, any interruption in insulin delivery may result in high blood glucose. Always carry an emergency kit in case you develop a problem with your pump,” he concludes. IANS
H‑Factor
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012
Holistic view of mind, body and soul
YOU CAN MAKE it happen if you want to
Shekher training Reha, a model Ranjani Rajendra ranjani.r@postnoon.com
H
e’s been known to shape the stars – literally. In the past his impressive list of clientele included the likes of Nagarjuna, Tarun, Anushka, Charmee, Jr NTR, Tabu, Sameera Reddy, Samantha and Naga Chaitanya. While now Chandra Shekher Reddy, ACE (USA) certified personal trainer and owner Helios gym, still trains Tollywood stars, he is focussed on introducing new techniques like the H90 (a fast paced weight loss programme that is a healthy mix of pilates, boot camp, sports, boxing, yoga and weight training) and training some of the top honchos in the City. “Some of my clients include CEOs and MDs of MNCs, who lead incredibly hectic lives. Despite it all, they ensure that they set some time aside for themselves and hit the gym
every single day apart from indulging in their favourite sports. In stark contrast to them are youngsters today who don’t make any effort to include some form of exercise in their everyday routine,” says Shekher, who has been into the business of fitness since 1993. Given the fact that these days most people lead very busy lives with barely any time to take a breather, lack of time is the commonest excuse people give to avoid the gym. Add to that are the sedentary lifestyles most of us lead and bad eating habits. It’s little wonder then that obesity and a whole range of lifestyle ailments are on the rise. However, Shekher firmly believes that all of this can be managed with a little effort. “Doing some cardio exercises thrice a week is more than enough to ensure minimum fitness and a healthy system. No matter how busy one is, they can definitely spare an hour or two over the weekend and on a
Doing some cardio exercises thrice a week is enough to ensure minimum fitness and a healthy system. No matter how busy one is, they can spare a few hours week day. It all depends on how much you want to make it happen. It is better than leading a sedentary lifestyle. But most people skip exercising even three days a week,” he says. He goes on to add that for people with specific goals like weight loss, sports specific and muscle strengthening then an exercise regime under the supervision of a trainer at least five to six times a week works. “It is however, first important to understand one’s body type and lifestyle. What happens these
days is that people work long hours and exercise takes a back seat. But people need to take stock of the situation and then decide what is more important for them — their health or the rat race,” he says. The commonest refrain most people resort to these days is, “I’m still young and now is when I can enjoy.” But this very attitude works against them, according to Shekher. “These people forget that while they are enjoying now they are also inviting a number of ailments and the resultant restrictions that they need to live with for the rest of their lives. But if they take care of their health now, they can continue to enjoy as they settle down in life without worrying about illnesses and medications. The earlier they set an exercise routine for themselves, the easier it is for them to stick to it and modify their lifestyles with age,” he explains.
19
Stroke risk high if sibling had stroke
STOCKHOLM: If your sibling of either sex had a stroke, you may be atleast 60 per cent more likely to have one too, says a finding. n The study focused on ischemic strokes, which are caused by blood vessel blockage that cuts off blood flow to part of the brain. Ischemic strokes are by far the most common type. n The study also found that if your sibling was 55 or younger at the time of the stroke, your risk of having one at 55 or younger is almost doubled, said Erik Ingelsson, senior study author and professor of cardiovascular epidemiology at the Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm, Sweden, the journal Circulation: Cardiovascular Genetics reports. n “Health professionals should pay as much attention to a family history of stroke in siblings as in parents," Ingelsson said. n Swedish researchers studied national health records from 1987 to 2007. They analysed hospital and cause of death records in 30,735 people who had a sibling with a stroke and 152,391 adults of a similar age with no history of a sibling having a stroke. At the time of their sibling's stroke, people averaged 64 years old. n “If your sibling has had a stroke, it should motivate you to take more preventive actions and pay more attention to lifestyle habits such as diet, exercise and blood pressure control," Ingelsson said. IANS
Fatty acids can fight cancer O
mega-3 agents could potentially block the path of primary cancer tumours, preventing more advanced cancers, according to researchers. Michael Murray, professor of pharmogenetics at the University of Sydney University, says a life endangering consequence of malignant breast tumours is metastasis (disease spreading to distant sites or tissues) and at present there are no treatments. He led his team to the discovery of the anti-metastatic actions of epoxides which are produced within the body from omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, according to a statement. Murray says: “These agents are a like frontline soldiers blocking the assault of an invading army and now we want to advance our research which was published late last year and apply it to breast cancer cells. "We know that epidemiological studies stated that dietary intake of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, decrease the risk of certain cancers. “We are aiming to develop a completely new class of anti-metastatic drugs designed to inhibit the spread of primary cancers," Murray says. IANS
F‑Folio
Because you are what you wear
SUMMER Summer time dressing cannot be complete without the easy, free-flowing maxi dresses. These have a floor-length hem are a great way to be fashionable, while being comfortable. Below are 10 fashion labels that updated the maxi for Spring Summer 2012
Surabhi Chauhan feedback@postnoon.com
P
Emilio Pucci
Valentino
Alberta Ferretti
E
ver since designers Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli have taken charge of Valentino, the collections have received a fresh spin on the rich heritage of Valentino. The Spring Summer 2012 collection is extremely feminine and pretty while keeping in mind the wearability factor. The billowy sleeves and the ruffle detailing give a European elegant charm to the summer long dress.
ucci summer collection is a mix of its iconic paisley and swirly prints with a bohemian vibe. Maxi skirts with midriff showing tops, chiffon printed dresses, peasant top and billowy sleeves – this collection is for the gypsy girl who wants to have designer wear.
I
Naeem Khan
ndian born, New York based designer Naeem Khan’s summer collection consists of cocktail dresses in different lengths and shapes. The kaftanesque summer maxi dress is a great designer option to wear this summer. The jewelled belt was a noteworthy addition by this label to the summer maxi.
W
ith always a great colour palette, Alberta Ferretti showcased a collection of sexy dresses. The dresses are most apt to wear for an evening soiree with its sheer fabrics, beaded detailing and lace skirts. The long dresses from the collection are the perfect options to achieve easy elegance this summer.
A
Ralph Lauren
classic Ralph Lauren woman could get overwhelmed by the ever changing fashion trends but could always rely on Ralph Lauren ready-to-wear collection. While the label does present a new collection each season, their customer is a woman who loves the classy, safe options. The dresses in this collection could easily be imagined to be worn by the high class New Yorkers, a city where the designer resides.
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012
M A X I S
BCBG Max Azria
D
esigner Max Azria designs the BCBG line with a more affordable price range in mind. He is also the designer for Herve Leger label where higher end clothing is projected. Hollywood is usually drawn to this label with its easy to wear, and bold styles. This collection comprises of geometric patterned, free flowing dresses with colour blocked detailing.
F
Calvin Klein
D
esigner Francisco Costa for Calvin Klein has indigenously taken the brand ethos of minimalistic fashion to another high. For Spring Summer 2012 Francisco displayed a collection which stuck to nude and white tones. Calvin Klein amongst other things is well known for its “nude” dresses, which is a dress with a colour tone similar to the skin’s tone.
D&G
T
20&21
Elie Saab
he famous Lebanese designer is as much of a hit on the runway as on the red carpet. His designs have been worn by actors like Halle Berry, Aishwarya Rai, Beyonce, Sonam Kapoor, Angelina Jolie to name a few. The summer ready-to-wear collection comprises of a wide range of solid colours like mustard, blue, green, white, orange. With intricate detailing and free-flowing skirts, his maxi dresses are instant classics because of their timeless appeal.
Sonia Rykiel
un and flirty label by designers Dolce and Gabbana, D&G is a treat of tropical prints and colours for their spring summer collections. This collection consisted of maxi dresses in a riot of colours and scarf like prints. This was also the last collection for D&G as from the next season the designers will only make clothes under their second label “Dolce and Gabbana”.
S
onia Rykiel was started by French fashion designer Sonia in the year 1962. The label exemplifies the fun-loving elegant French girl. This summer collection continues with the brand’s tradition under the supervision of recently hired new creative director April Crichton. The dresses in the current style are in simple pull-over silhouettes but with the feminine touched of sheer-play of fabric and soft colours.
The writer is a fashion blogger (www.lovestruckcow.blogspot.com) who attempts to bridge the gap between creator and consumer. As a fashion writer, she hopes to promote Indian fashion among Indians and on a global level too.
Spotlight
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012
22
DEEPAK DESHPANDE
Singing the birthday song Tamanna Keshkani celebrated her birthday with family and friends at the Rain Pub.
Suman & Shubhi
Tamanna Keshkani
Komal & Aarti
Neha Agarwal
Deepa
Tejal
Spreading the light of education DEEPAK DESHPANDE
New Year fun DEEPAK DESHPANDE
Ladies came dressed in their festive best as they celebrated Baisakhi at Hyder Mahal in ITC Kakatiya.
Namitha
Mehek, Riya & Komal
Varthika
Sneha & Varthika
Bina Mehta
Birla edutech ltd in association with the DSR society inaugurated the second Birla Preschool in Gachibowli. Seen in the picture are Mounica, Sharmila Reddy, Sudheer Reddy and Sri Krishna Reddy at the inauguration.
Magic Screen
e
rib c s b u
S
! y a Tod
6 Months
` 199/-
1 Year
` 349/-
Contact us on : 040 4067 2222
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012
23
Magic Screen
D I S P L A YA
D S RATE ` 150 sq. cm
For Further Details Please Contact Abhinay 9989399972 Nandlal 9951467988 Ravi Chander 8106039919
The glamour behind the glitz
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012
24
Magic Screen
The glamour behind the glitz
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012
25
Chai Time
KAKURO
How to play Kakuro 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.
SCRIBBLING PAD
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012
Take a shot at the brain game while sipping your cuppa
26
QUICK CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Kind of starch or pudding 5 Closing passage in music 9 Biblical song 14 Bedside water pitcher 15 Burden 16 Silk-like fabric 17 Corny warning? 20 Chinese dumplings 21 Lock fitter 22 Fit ___ (suit perfectly) 23 Boar's abode 24 Wagon wheel depression 26 Vent violently 28 Drop from the invitation list 30 It turns people blue 34 ‘Isn't ___ Lovely?’ (Stevie Wonder hit) 37 King Hussein of Jordan, for one 39 Old-womanish 40 Corny Jack Nicholson film? 44 ‘The Little Mermaid’ mermaid 45 Devoid of moisture 46 Swindler's easy target 47 Does a certain ballroom dance 49 Use pinking shears 51 Act like an antelope 53 Self-centeredness 54 Porky's penultimate word 57 Famously hilly city 60 Albanian currency unit 62 Abdominal protrusion 64 Corny psychology sessions? 67 Expansive view 68 A ___ formality 69 ‘Nay’ and ‘uh-uh’ 70 Odes, sonnets, etc 71 Alaskan malamute's burden 72 One wet behind the ears DOWN 1 Bird-feeder bits 2 Watch for 3 Far from sterile 4 Grampuses
5 For a group rather than individuals 6 Hydrogen's number 7 Dawn's opposite 8 Daisy's relative 9 No longer an amateur 10 Semisweet golden table wine 11 Early Christian pulpit 12 Country music star McCann 13 Gathering at the track 18 Couple's possessive 19 Scandinavian rugs 25 Istanbul natives 27 End to be attained 29 Afflictions 31 Sheds 32 First name in Olympic gymnastics 33 ‘Read 'em and ___!’ 34 It's played with less than a full deck
35 Mother of Ares 36 ‘___ go bragh!’ 38 Wind-___ (carried by a breeze) 41 Gives the cold shoulder to 42 Shower gel ingredient 43 Made heavy 48 Bad thing to get in a wound 50 Rhymed verse 52 Salon jobs 54 Irritate 55 Metric unit 56 Dogie catcher 57 Wedding invitation letters 58 Youngstown's state
SUDOKU
59 Urania, eg 61 Hull attachment 63 Budget category 65 Boastful Round Table knight 66 ‘Who ___ you kidding?’
PREVIOUS PUZZLE ANSWER
THOUGHT OF THE DAY When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace. – Emely
Chai Time STAR POWER
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012
Your tomorrow today̶Star Power and Tarot THIRUVAIKUMAR
As per Hindu panchang
FOR 14-4-2012
thiruvaikumar@yahoo.co.in 040-27177230 / 9177596118
TAURUS
GEMINI
Family will remain peaceful. No chances of deficit in financial situation. Financial benefits likely through spouse. You will bond friends and relatives together with your nice and positive approach.
Need to exercise caution in financial tr‑ ansactions. Mother's health needs to be taken care of. Some might be forced to change their residence or to sell proper‑ ty. Harmonial relationship will help.
Health is fine. Financially a very strong situation likely. Old dues will get collect‑ ed and keep you happy. Brothers too will have a financially sound position. Litigations in property issue will resolve.
CANCER
LEO
VIRGO
You have to struggle hard to prove your calibre. Differences between blood rela‑ tives will be over. Son will get a job from a reputed firm. You will give free‑ dom to your spouse and respect her.
Health problems will disappear. Income from multiple sources will keep you cheerful. Travel is inevitable. Be in har‑ mony with friends and relatives. Avoid speculative deals or bettings.
Income is set to increase. Your respect and value are set to increase. You will derive financial benefits through fri‑ ends and well‑wishers. You will help blood relatives in clearing their debts.
LIBRA
SCORPIO
SAGITTARIUS
Confusions in the family will come to an end. Blood relatives will accept your advises. You will look very cheerful. Obstacles in the way of buying or con‑ structing a house will disappear.
Money inflow will remain consistent as expected. Your name will be added to the list of VIPs. Differences with moth‑ er and brothers will disappear. All the needs of the family will be fulfilled.
Your activeness, hard work and positive‑ ness will make you successful and earn you a good name. Blood relatives will help you reap financial benefits. You will feel happy and proud of your kids.
CAPRICORN
AQUARIUS
PISCES
Health needs to be taken good care of. Work might not get completed as per plans. Though financially no problems are seen, financial transactions need to be carried out with extra caution.
Financially a sound position likely. Golden opportunities to knock at your door. Make use of the same in a better way. Friendship with politicians likely. Blood relatives will be co‑operative.
Confusions and differences between family members will disappear. Chance for earning a regular income will come. Your words will carry weightage. You will win over indirect enemies.
SUMAA TEKUR
FOR 14-4-2012
tarotreadhyd@gmail.com
ARIES
TAURUS
GEMINI
Six of Cups – Memo‑ ries are what life is made up of. You bump into someone from your past and you sit to ponder about how simple life was back then.
Three of Pentacles – Youʼre stuck with your mobile phone all day. Have you added some new apps and are totally thrilled with it? Play on!
Page of Cups – Youʼre being impul‑ sive. Stop, step back, and take a good look at the big picture. Do you really want to go down that road?
CANCER
LEO
VIRGO
Seven of Cups – Mate‑ rial comfort is your fo‑ cus at the moment and youʼve almost achieved what you planned to. You feel un‑emotional about the path you choose to make money.
Nine of Pentacles – If youʼve left a hobby you really liked, itʼs a good time to get back to it. It may be playing an instrument or cook‑ ing or writing.
The Emperor – Yo‑ uʼre in control of all aspects of your life and youʼre admired by your peers for these very qualities. Your leadership skills are put to the test.
LIBRA
SCORPIO
SAGITTARIUS
Ten of Swords – All the efficiency that y‑ ouʼre known for may not be helping you. Your bosses expect something else. Itʼs for you to under‑ stand what that is.
Four of Cups – A sur‑ prise job offer springs up and youʼre left wo‑ ndering how that ha‑ ppened. It will open up your life and noth‑ ing ever seems diffi‑ cult to manage.
Queen of Swords – Youʼre feeling lonely and this may be beca‑ use you have moved on and the others around you havenʼt. Stay focused on the job. Itʼs set itself right.
CAPRICORN
AQUARIUS
PISCES
The Fool – Youʼre bei‑ ng a bit immature in managing something important, be it rela‑ tionships or job. You‑ ʼre refusing to see the circumstances around and respond as such.
The Devil – Youʼre tempted to go all the way when it comes to the money. Hold back, especially when it comes to big ticket investments, like real estate.
King of Swords – Th‑ ere are no free lunch‑ es, and you have to work hard to get everything you need. You realize this more than anyone, being a self‑made person.
For Better or for Worse Stone soup
SOLUTIONS
Boggle SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY THURSDAY SATURDAY
Number game
Suduko
Scrabble
Ink pen
COMICS
Fred Basset
ARIES
TAROT READ
27
Vol: 1, No 271 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
Playing Field
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012
The games people play
28
M ANIL KUMAR
G. Aparna Sai feedback@postnoon.com
I
t is not on an everyday basis that one gets to interact with their favourite international cricketers and get some useful cricketering tips from them but on Thursday, a few budding players had the opportunity to meet a few players of the Deccan Chargers. A coaching clinic was conducted by the IPL franchise, Deccan Chargers, at the Gymkhana Grounds to help nurture young talent. Deccan Chargers’ skipper, Kumar Sangakkara, spinner Amit Mishra, fast bowler Manpreet Gony, team coach Darren Lehman and fielding coach Trevor Penny, all graced this occasion. The excited bunch of kids began with a warm-up session which included a few rounds of jogging and exercise drills. Based on their talent, the kids were divided into groups. While Lehman kept an eye on the batsmen and gave tips regularly about technique, Sangakkara guided the kids with respect to wicket-keeping and batting. Manpreet Gony assisted the quickies, Amit Mishra took over the reins of the spinners while Penny gave the kids fielding and catching tips. The students tried to grasp all that they were taught and imple-
GAME TONIC
CHERYL COLE IS ON THE MOVE
SPORTY AFFAIRS
C
heryl Cole is going to rent a new £5 million house from Spurs midfielder, Jermaine Jenas, who is also her ex-husband Ashely Cole’s pal. She has been in talks with Jenas about moving into the north London gaff on a six-month lease. Cheryl will have to part with a good part of her £3,000 a week for it. A source said: “Cheryl is getting organised for an extremely busy couple of years ahead. She has a chart campaign starting soon with a single and new album as well as the big Girls Aloud reunion tour also on the way.”
JEN HIRES HENCHMEN FOR HEFTY SUM
F
earing a WAG backlash, Jennifer Thompson has dished out £1,500 on bodyguards for the Grand National Ladies’ Day, reported the Daily Star. The WAGs have set up a “Jenny Alert” on social networking sites and mobile phones to warn each other about her whereabouts following her revelations of bedding Wayne Rooney, 26, and Mario Balotelli, 21. However, the 23-year-old insisted she has put behind her “wannabe WAG” days. On ITV1’s This Morning show, she said: “Now I’m not focusing on men at all.’’ However, the WAGs don’t look convinced and the call girl thinks she would be accosted and hence the hiring henchmen for a hefty sum.
mented as much as they could. The Deccan Chargers team-members were pleased with the talent present among the kids and minced no words in expressing it. “It was a short but nice initiative. International players who visit India should support such kids who have a lot of talent,” skipper Sangakkara said. “They are a talented lot. They need to have fun, that is all that is needed,” he went on to add. While Darren Lehman said he enjoyed practicing with the kids, Amit Mishra stated an important point saying that, “it is nice to see so much talent at such a tender age. To nurture this talent in the right direction, the kids need a good coach.” Penny and Gony had near similar comments to make expressing their joy after getting to interact with the young talented breed. The kids’ joy knew no bounds when they met the DC players. “This cricket coaching clinic was extremely useful and I enjoyed it thoroughly. We were even taught how to dive on the field,” said an excited Vashisth while another student, Ashish Mishra expressed his joy on having gotten some useful bowling tips from Amit Mishra. Having made the best of the opportunity, the kids, a pleased lot, went home with big dreams in their eyes.
BLUE TO GET A GOLDEN TOUCH
C
helsea have high hopes for next season. At least, that’s what their new jersey indicates. The FA Cup and Champions League semi-finalists have incorporated a touch of gold to their traditional blue home strip, reported the Sun. And Roberto Di Matteo hopes the new design translates to success on the pitch.
29
FRIDAY APRIL 13, 2012
METRE
It was an important toss, we would have also wanted to bowl first but this was a good performance from the KXIP bowlers and you cannot ta-ke the credit out of the KXI Sourav Ganguly, PWI Captain
Ajinkya Rahane (RR) 138 runs
Munaf Patel (MI) 10 wickets
BRIEF SCORES: RCB VS CSK
S
6 150
Faf du Plessis (CSK)
8 4S311
Ajinkya Rahane (RR)
20
HIGHEST SCORE
BEST BOWLER
5-16
Ravindra Jadeja (CSK)
AFP/MANJUNATH KIRAN
G Aparna Sai feedback@postnoon.com
H
aving finally tasted success this IPL season when they defeated Royal Challengers Bangalore by 42 runs, Kolkata Knight Riders seem all set to take on Rajasthan Royals today at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. With this being the second time these two teams clash in IPL’s fifth edition, it remains to be seen if the Knights get lucky and make owner, Shah Rukh Khan a happy man or will the Royals repeat their act of destruction. KKR, led by Gautam Gambhir, can certainly play party spoilers incase their main Knights strike their swords well. If players like Yusuf Pathan, Jacques Kallis and Brendon McCullum get their bats to do the talking, then there is no stopping them. Under such circumstances, the opponents will have little to salvage their pride.
While Rajat Bhatia plays the role of an all-rounder, spearhead Brett Lee and India’s Lakshmipathy Balaji could spell doom to their enemy’s composure. Though KKR is a side filled with caliber, yet one cannot belittle the talent and experience that oozes in the team of the Royals. Having begun as one of the underdogs, RR have risen to the occasion on more instances than one. With a level headed and cool
KKR VS RR AT 8 PM ON SET MAX temperament person like Rahul Dravid as their leader, the team has shown what they are capable of having won two of their three games. While Ajinkya Rahane still holds onto the orange cap and continues to impress, Owais Shah, who silenced his critics with his quickfire 76 of 42 balls, is a force to reckon with. Meanwhile, the bowling department speaks volumes for itself with the likes of Kevon Cooper, Brad Hogg and Amit Singh making their presence felt.
AFP/PUNIT PARANJPE
NEHRA BLAMES LOSS ON FIELDING
BRIEF SCORES: PWI VS KXIP
IPL sees dip in TV ratings NEW DELHI: Television rat-
P W L T PT NR MI 4 3 1 0 6 0.361 DD 3 2 1 0 4 0.82 PWI 3 2 1 0 4 0.573 RR 3 2 1 0 4 0.433 CSK 4 2 2 0 4 -0.051 KKR 3 1 2 0 2 0.206 RCB 3 1 2 0 2 -0.417 KXIP 3 1 2 0 2 -0.583 DC 2 0 2 0 0 -1.95 P-played; W-win; L-lost; T-tie; NR-net run rate; PT-points
Ajinkya Rahane (RR)
RR take on the Knights
RCB 205/8 IN 20 OVERS (CHRIS GAYLE 68, DOUG BOLLINGER 3/24) LOST TO CSK 208/5 IN 20 OVERS (FAF DU PLESSIS 71, MURALITHARAN 3/21)
PWI 115 IN 19 OVERS (MITHUN MANHAS 31, MASCARENHAS 5/25) LOST TO KXIP 116/3 IN 17.4 OVERS (SHAUN MARSH 64, RAHUL SHARMA 1/17)
98
ings have nose-dived for the opening games of the muchhyped Indian Premier League this season, according to figures released on Thursday. Television Viewer Ratings (TVR) were down 18.7 percent in the first six games compared with the same period last year, said Tam Media Research, India’s leading television research agency. Viewing figures also dipped last year, when the event’s fourth edition began less than a week after India’s victory in the World Cup at home in
Mumbai. Since its inception in 2008, viewing patterns have showed high interest in the IPL’s opening and final weeks with a sharp decline in the middle. The tournament this year started on April 4 and will be completed with the final in Chennai on May 27. “I think the whole IPL business model is a bit shaky now and not as robust as it was made out to be when it first started,” Sridhar Ramanujam, the head of brand consulting firm Brand Comm, told the Cricinfo website. AFP
P
Pune Warriors pacer Ashish Nehra has blamed it on the fielding lapses and not playing the full quota of 20 overs for his team’s seven-wicket loss to Kings XI Punjab in their IPL match here at the PCA stadium. “The kind of chances we got...(Robin) Uthappa missed one caught behind chance of Shaun Marsh. Jessy Ryder missed one run out and there was a drop chance off my bowling,” Nehra said at a post-match press conference last night. Pune were dismissed for a modest 115 in just 19 overs after Punjab won the toss and invited the visitors to bat. The hosts then returned to overhaul the target with 14 balls to spare. Stating that losing opener Jesse Ryder (7) with the ball doing a bit early on, did not help their cause, Nehra said: “The first half was a bit slow, with ball doing a bit, but we didn’t even play full 20 overs. Had we batted through and got 130-135 with the kind of bowling we have and supported with the fielding, things could have gone in our favour.” Nehra also felt that given the conditions on the ground with a hint of movement, it was a bad toss to lose. PTI
PLAYER OF THE DAY FAF DU PLESSIS: The Chennai Super Kings player deserves all kudos for having scripted one of the most significant wins in the history of IPL. Batting first, Royal Challengers Bangalore put up a mammoth total of 205 runs from their 50 overs. But CSK were not deterred and fired their guns right from the beginning. Unfortunately CSK lost wickets at regular intervals. But F du Plessis stood like a rock and held the innings together. He smashed the RCB bowlers all across the ground hit a wellstruck 71 runs of 46 balls. His innings included five fours and four sixes. He was the threatening element in the until he fell was caught by Kohli of Muralitharan. But soon Morkel came and completed the unfinished work to seal the game in Chennai’s favour.
Playing Field
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012
The games people play
Meet Lady Walsh LIVERPOOL: Ruby Walsh won the Grand National at his first attempt on Papillon , trained by father Ted in 2000, and here on Saturday sister Katie hopes to become the first woman to win the great race. The 27-year-old Irishwoman — who along with sister-in-law Nina Carberry and Lucy Alexander in England have shown they are the equal of the men over the jumps rides the hotly-fancied Seabass , like Papillon , trained by her father. Walsh, who is assistant trainer to her father, took the ride after Ruby opted for On His Own , also trained in Ireland by champion handler Willie Mullins. However, as she told The Times she is not in the saddle because she is the trainer’s daughter. “I know what Dad expects of me and I know he won’t expect any less,” said Walsh, who was the stable girl who led in
Papillon after his memorable victory in 2000. “He’s given me this chance because he thinks I can ride, not just because I’m his daughter. He thinks I’m able to do the job.” Walsh, who got the better of Carberry in the National Hunt Chase at the prestigious Cheltenham Festival in 2010, says that contrary to popular belief her male counterparts are not patronising and instead are generous with their advice. “I’ve had great help from the lads but if I ever did anything wrong, I was told,” she said. “It was never ‘Ah, she’s only a girl’, and I wouldn’t want that anyway. I wanted to compete at this level so I play by their rules.” Walsh has no plans to ditch her amateur status and turn professional even if she were to win the National. “There’s not nearly so much racing in Ireland [compared to England
Abril takes on Rios
which persuaded Alexander to turn professional] and it’s very competitive,” said Walsh, who at the very least will hope to better Carrie Ford’s fifth place on Forest Gunner in 2005 which is the best finish yet by a woman. “We both get good rides as amateurs and there is no reason to change.” Walsh, who will have Carberry for company on Saturday as she rides Organisedconfusion, trained by her uncle Arthur Moore, believes Seabass— owned by a syndicate of Arsenal supporters fittingly called ‘The Gunners’ — has what it takes to win the race. “I’m an optimist but a realist,” said Walsh, who will be seeking to achieve something the previous 14 women riders failed to do.
Bulls too cool for the Heat
LAS VEGAS: The pre-fight verbal sparring promises a tense and entertaining bout on Saturday when Richard Abril takes on Brandon Rios for the vacant World Boxing Association lightweight title. Rios, the Mexican-American former champ, had been slated to take on Yuriorkis Gamboa. But when Gamboa signalled his disinterest by failing to show for two press conferences last month, another Cuban-born fighter, Abril, caught Rios off guard by rushing to challenge him. Fireworks have marked the build-up to the bout, including a shoving match at a Los Angeles press conference last week. “No unheard-of fighter like Abril will ever beat me,” Rios declared. “He’s going to go down and he’s going to go down real hard. In the boxing world, Abril is in the darkness and I will keep him there.”
CHICAGO: With NBA Most Valuable Player Derrick Rose struggling, CJ Watson and the rest of the Bulls stepped up Thursday to lead Chicago to a 96-86 overtime victory over Eastern Conference rivals Miami. Chicago clinched the Eastern Conference Central Division title and moved four games ahead of Miami for the top playoff seed in the East. Rose, still finding his way back after a
12-game injury absence, was just 1-of-13 from the floor in what was statistically his worst NBA performance. But Watson helped fill the void as he drained a game-tying three-pointer at the end of regulation as part of a 16-point performance. “I’m not worried about my stats or anything,” Rose said. “I’m just trying to get my timing back before the playoffs start. Could I make up excuses? Yeah. But you know me. I’m not going to. “My shot wasn’t falling. Shots I usually hit I wasn’t hitting. My teammates had my back. And I’m happy I have them on my team.” Chicago’s dominant finish lent credence to Wade’s pre-game remarks in which he called the Bulls “the best team right now in the NBA”. Although the Heat beat the Bulls in last season’s Eastern Conference finals, this is a new season, Wade said. “Yeah, we’re the Eastern Conference champs, and you have to knock down the champs, but at the same time we’re still chasing a team who has gotten better from last year.”
30
NATIONAL SPORT Madappa leads the field Golf Bangalore’s Viraj Madappa became
the overall leader with a superb two-under 70 that also gave him the lead in the Category B after the third round in the USHA IGU Juniors, the season’s opening junior golf tournament at the Army Golf Club (AEPTA). Viraj, one of the most promising youngsters in the country, shot one-under 35 on either side of the turn, while overnight overall and category B leader, Mohan Sardar slipped.
“
As a sportsperson, our job is to accommodate and follow our fellow cricketers in their difficult times. Yuvraj is a fighter and he will fight through this also. Kevin Pietersen
Maheshwari misses mark Athletics National record holder triple
jumper Renjith Maheshwari missed the London Olympics ‘B’ qualification mark as he won gold in the second and final leg of the Indian Grand Prix today. Maheshwari had a jump of 16.70m in his second attempt, which was below Olympics ‘B’ qualification mark of 16.85m. In other events, Kunhi Mohammed of Services won men’s 400m race by clocking 46.58s which is his personal best performance.
NJO
The final score as the Indian women’s hockey team went down fighting to New Zealand in their opening match of the FourNation Tournament in Auckland today. New Zealand struck through Anita Punt and Katie Glynn while Anuradha Devi Thokchom found the target for India.
Himachal set for 1st match With the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association stadium all set to host its first international match, HPCA President Anurag Thakur has said that ICC representative and former Aussie batsman David Boon gave his go-ahead to the venue after inspecting it last year. Dharamsala, which has been hosting IPL matches for the past two seasons, will host an One-day International for the first time during India’s home series against England between November 2012 and January 2012.
Cricket
Playing Field
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012
The games people play
Bahrain GP gets nod Peter Stebbings
SHANGHAI: The Bahrain Grand Prix will go ahead next week as planned, Formula One’s world governing body said on Friday, despite clashes and fears it could be targeted by anti-government demonstrators. The FIA said safety concerns had been addressed following year-long protests which caused the race to be called off last season. “Based on the current information the FIA has at this stage, it is satisfied that all the proper security measures are in place for the running of a Formula One world championship event in Bahrain,” a statement on its website said. “Therefore, the FIA confirms that the 2012 Gulf Air F1 Grand Prix of Bahrain will go ahead as scheduled.” The race in Bahrain, which is on April 22, has overshadowed the lead-up to Sunday’s Chinese Grand Prix in
WORLD SPORT Russell stuns Fish in Houston Qualifier Michael Russell stunned top seed Mardy Fish 6-3, 6-1 on Thursday, thrilling his hometown fans as he booked a quarter-final berth at the ATP Tour US Men’s Clay Court Championship. Russell, a 33-year-old who lives in Houston, converted five of his break point chances against the world number nine to triumph in 74 minutes. It was Russell’s first victory over a top-10 opponent in 13 attempts.
Tennis
“ A boy runs, clutching a national flag, in front of a wall covered in anti-government graffiti in the village of Belad al-Qadeem, south of Manama, on April 12 to join the demonstration against the Formula One race taking place on April 22 AFP/STR Shanghai and many teams are believed to have grave concerns about the upcoming event in the desert state. It was postponed last year after protests against the gov-
Mercedes’ wing cleared SHANGHAI: Mercedes will be able to use their controversial “Fduct” rear wing at Sunday’s Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai after a protest from rivals Lotus was dismissed by race stewards. Lotus are not expected to appeal Thursday’s decision, which could mean that other teams may now swiftly push ahead with implementing their own version of the much-discussed Mercedes design. Lotus had said that the Mercedes car, which had earlier been looked at but cleared to race in Shanghai, just as it had in Australia and Malaysia, contravened a regulation which outlaws driver-operated aerodynamic devices. However, the stewards unanimously dismissed the protest, ruling that Mercedes’ design is not activated by the driver, but as a consequence of the permitted DRS movement.
ernment erupted, and was later removed from the 2011 schedule. Washington said this week that it was “deeply concerned” and United Nations secretary-general Ban
Ki-moon on Thursday criticised “the excessive use of force” against protesters. But the FIA said it was confident enough to give the grand prix the green light.
Hamilton fastest in first practice SHANGHAI:
McLaren’s Lewis Hamilton (left) was fastest in first practice for the Chinese Grand Prix on Friday, as Formula One attempted to get back to the business of racing after all the talk about Bahrain. The Briton, who has been hit with a five-place grid penalty for Sunday’s race, left it late in the session to romp home quickest in one min 37.106sec to set the pace at a damp and cool Shanghai International Circuit. Nico Rosberg, in a Mercedes, was second-fastest, 1.010sec off Hamilton, with Rosberg’s team-mate Michael Schumacher, the seven-time world champion, third. He was 1.210sec off Hamilton. Sergio Perez, the surprise package in Malaysia, was fourth-fastest, followed by Kamui Kobayashi and Mark Webber, who had been fastest for most of the session. Vettel was seventh and Fernando Alonso down in 11th.
31
I’ve tried to watch the news to get a balanced view of the Bahrain situation, but I know only as much as anyone else, really. We hope things go smoothly. Mark Webber, F1 driver
Campbell off to good start Chad Campbell got off to a hot start en route to a four-under 67 at the RBC Heritage on Thursday, good enough for a share of the first-round lead alongside Vaughn Taylor and Colt Knost. Campbell birdied four of his first seven holes on the par-71 Harbour Town Golf Links layout, finishing with six birdies and two bogeys. Taylor and Knost joined him atop the leaderboard with solid finishes.
Golf
NT
Is the number of straight wins Big Buck’s has notched up as he strolled into racing’s record books winning the BGC Liverpool Hurdle, the opening contest of the 2012 Grand National meeting at Aintree. Big Buck’s barely had to break sweat to beat Crack Away Jack by nine lengths.
Wozniacki’s super 12 Top seed Caroline Wozniacki
Tennis won her 12th match in 12 career outings at the Copenhagen Open on Thursday as she moved closer to a third title with a 6-2, 6-1 second round rout of France’s Pauline Parmentier. The home star’s win was in contrast to her opening round struggle past Poland’s Urszula Radwanska. “I got more used to the surface compared to the last match and that was definitely a difference,” said Wozniacki, who plays another Frenchwoman, Alize Cornet, in Friday’s quarter-finals.
Playing Field Mario will stay at Man City? ROME: Mario Balotelli wants to stay with Manchester City despite manager Roberto Mancini’s belief that the controversial Italian striker could be sold in the summer. Balotelli’s four red cards in two seasons, as well as a chequered life off the field, have exhausted Mancini’s patience, but the player’s agent Mino Raiola said his client wants to stay at Eastlands. “This is not the moment to return to Italy. Mario must progress and learn in England. We haven’t asked for a transfer for Mario,” Raiola told Sky Sport after being quizzed on whether or not Balotelli would return to Inter Milan or even sign for AC Milan. “Mancini has denied having said that he no longer wants to have anything to do with Mario. He expected a heavy suspension and can’t use him again this season.” Balotelli’s latest red card came last weekend in City’s 1-0 defeat at Arsenal where he was sent off for a wild lunge on Bacary Sagna. “There has been a moment of tension, but now the situation is calm (with Mancini),” added Raiola. “Mario must handle certain situations a lot better, not only with City but also the national team.”
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012
The games people play
Can United hold on? Tom Werner backs Kenny to lead
Rob Woollard
LONDON: A week may be a long time in football and if Manchester United take anything less than maximum points against Aston Villa this weekend it is going to feel like an eternity. Last Sunday, pundits unanimously declared the Premier League title race to be over after Manchester City slumped to defeat at Arsenal, a loss which left Roberto Mancini’s men eight points adrift of United with six games left.
But United’s hitherto serene progress towards a 20th league crown was rudely interrupted in the form of a shock 1-0 defeat at Wigan in midweek, a reverse which cut their lead at the top of the table to five points. Just as significantly, City’s thumping 4-0 win over West Brom means Mancini’s side have now taken a handy advantage over United in terms of goal difference. With United still to face City at Eastlands on April 30, the Wigan loss means Sir Alex Ferguson’s side now have pre-
cious little margin for error — provided of course that Mancini’s side can keep on winning. United veteran Ryan Giggs has challenged his team-mates to prove that the Wigan result was a one-off, urging them not to let the loss play on their minds. “We don’t have to get too down,” Giggs said. “It has happened quite a bit this season where there has been the odd display where we just haven’t performed. The main thing is that we have recovered from it.”
Ronaldo eyes the finish line Tim Hanlon
MADRID: Cristiano Ronaldo (below) feels that Liga leaders Real Madrid are now closing in on the title as they prepare to face
32
struggling Sporting Gijon at the Santiago Bernabeu this weekend. The Portuguese star scored his seventh hat-trick of the season as Real beat neighbours Atletico 4-1 on Wednesday to
restore their four-point lead at the top of the table. The pressure had been growing on Jose Mourinho’s team as their lead — which sat at 10 points in mid-March — was whittled down to one in the wake of Barcelona’s 4-0 victory over Getafe on Tuesday. But, after some tense moments with the score tied at 1-1 at the Vicente Calderon, Ronaldo made the difference before substitute Jose Callejon got the other goal. “Still there is a little way to go but the league is near now. We were anxious going into the game as we knew that Barca had won but now we are relaxed,” said Ronaldo, who has already equalled his record-breaking tally of 40 league goals, set last season. That figure leaves him one ahead of Barcelona’s Lionel Messi, although the Argentine has the most in all competitions with 61. “Losing is not a word in my vocabulary,” added Ronaldo.
LIVERPOOL: Liverpool chairman Tom Werner insisted on Thursday that manager Kenny Dalglish’s job is safe and backed the Anfield legend to bring the good old days back to the misfiring club. Werner spoke out just hours after director of football Damien Comolli left, a development which came after a poor run which had seen the team lose five out of six matches, ending their hopes of qualifying for the Champions League. But with the League Cup safely secured and an FA Cup semi-final date at Wembley with local rivals Everton on Saturday, Werner was quick to assure fans that Dalglish enjoys the “full support” of owners Fenway Sports Group. “We’ve got great confidence in Kenny,” he told liverpoolfc.tv. “We feel the team is going to make strides in the future and he enjoys our full support.” Werner also said that the club’s transfer strategy was solid and would pay dividends despite question marks over the likes of Andy Carroll (£35m), Stewart Downing (£20m) and Jordan Henderson (£16m). “We’ve had a strategy that we have agreed on. There was some disconnect on the implementation of that,” said Werner, who confirmed they had made the decision to remove Comolli. “That strategy is a strong one and it will continue. We need to build a strong system under the first team. We’re hard at work identifying transfer targets and we will be better next year.”