LET THE RIOT BEGIN: PUTIN SCORES OWN GOAL WITH VERDICT
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he United States led global condemnation of the two-year sentences meted out to Russian punk band Pussy Riot, as supporters of the women grabbed balaclavas and took to the streets in protest around the world. Russia has also banned gay pride parades from Moscow for 100 years. PG 6
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N SHIVA KUMAR
32 PAGES
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IT’S BACK! EPL KICKS-OFF TODAY The English Premier League is back as Manchester United attempts to wrest back the top spot from Manchester City.
PG 32
THE FACEBOOK KILLER?
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an an ad-free social network with a $50 registration fee replace Facebook and Twitter? A famous developer from Silicon Valley certainly thinks it is possible. PG 12
‘WE NEED TO BE CAUTIOUS,
NOT SCARED’
North-Eastern students say that they will continue to stay in Hyderabad, even as home minister Patolla Sabitha Indra Reddy convened a high level meeting today with various State government officials on the issue. REPORT ON PG 4
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PAGE TWO SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2012
FINAL TOUCHES
National Silk Expo The Gramin Hastkala Vikas Samiti is organising the”National Silk Expo” from August 18 to 26. The expo will feature various silk products from around the country such as printed silk, kantha and many more. Where: Sri Sathya Sai Nigamagamam, Srinagar Colony When: Ongoing, 11am to 9pm
Middle Eastern food fest Head to the Dining Room at Park Hyatt for the Middle Eastern Food Festival. It is open for both lunch and dinner. The food festival will be on till August 20. Where: Park Hyatt, Banjara Hills, Rd No 2 When: Ongoing, 12pm onwards and 6pm onwards Contact: (040) 4949 1200
Ethical hacking Oakridge International School is organising a 2-day ‘Workshop on ethical hacking and online security’ by ethical hacker and computer security expert, Ankit Fadia. The workshop is open for students and people interested in technology. Where: Oakridge International School, Gachibowli When: August 25 and 26, Contact: 1800 200 8171
Jash-E-Eid-Ul Fitr Break your fast with ITC Kakatiya’s special Iftar buffet which includes flavoured sherbets, rich haleem, malai paya, dum biryani and an assortment of Kebabs. Where: Deccan Pavillion, ITC Kakatiya, Begumpet When: August 10-20, 7.30pm onwards Contact: (040) 2340 0132
Photography workshop A photography workshop will be held at Iconart Gallery on weekends. Where: Iconart Gallery, Banjara Hills, Rd No 12 When: Ongoing Contact: 98499 68797
Shreya Ghoshal Live Popular playback singer Shreya Ghoshal who has sungs in various languages such as Hindi, Telugu and Tamil will perform live at Shilpa Kala Vedika on August 18. Where: Shilpa Kala Vedika, Hitec City When: August 18, 7.30pm onwards
CINEMAS
Idol makers apply the final touches to the Ganesha idols in the Old City. Contact: (040) 2311 2704
Taj Khazana Sale For six days, there will be a special offer on magnificent collection of sarees, western ensembles, pashminas, hand-picked costume jewellery, men’s garments and much more. Where: Taj Krishna, Banjara Hills Taj Falaknuma, Falaknuma When: August 20-29, 10am – 9pm Contact: Taj Krishna (040) 6629 3248 Taj Faluknama (040) 6629 8600
World class cocktails Select from a list of unusual concoctions like Frozen Gold. Buy two and get a world class cocktail book and experiment with a wide range of drinks yourself. Where: Marco Polo, ITC Kakatiya, Begumpet When: Ongoing Contact: (040) 2340 0132
Invisible lands An exhibition of paintings by Madhuchanda Majumder is being held.
Where: Alankritha Art Gallery, Jubilee Hills, Kavuri hills When: Ongoing, 11am onwards Contact: (040) 2354 0023
Play time The play Birjees Qadar ka Kunbaa will be held at Nift Auditorium on August 24. The play is in Urdu. Where: Nift Campus, Madhapur When: August 24, 7.30pm Contact: (040) 2311 4537
Elegance Artist Snehlatha Prasad presents her interpretation of the Radha and Krishna myth through her canvas. Where: Shrshti Art Gallery, Jubilee Hills, Rd No 15 When: Ongoing, 11am onwards Contact: (040) 2752 2999
Sunday brunch This one-of-a-kind extravaganza integrates all five food and beverage venues at the Radisson Blue Plaza Hotel to offer a wide spread of Indian and International gastronomies.The Brunch would be
SRINIVAS SETTY
complemented by a lucky draw every hour. Where: Radisson Blue Plaza , Banjara Hills, Rd No 6 When: August 19, 12pm onwards Contact: (040) 6733 1133
Punjabi food festival Head to Taj Deccan for a Punjabi Food festival. The food festival offers a variety of Punjabi delicacies such as saag and makke Ki roti along with the specialities such as Nukkad da Kukkad. Where: Taj Deccan, Banjara Hills, Rd No 1 When: August 24 onwards, Contact: (040) 66663939
India Fashion Tour IFT will be held from 18 and 19th August 2012 at The Park, Hyderabad .The two -day event featuring over 12 designers brings the fashion trends to the City. The event features numerous star designers such as Sonam Singh, Neelam Ashley and many more. Where: The Park, Somajiguda When: August 18 and 19 Contact: 95426 78789
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
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CITY SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2012
Water woes to be addressed
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eople can convey their grievances and suggestions on Water and Sewerage issues between 6pm and 6.30pm directly to the Adhar Sinha, managing director, HMWS&SB. He will be available for a telephonic interaction with consumers today. He can be contacted on (040) 66752212, 66752213 and 66752214. This will be telecastlive on local TV channel CTV.
GHMC tries, wires stay
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ased on a request by association members of cable operators, the GHMC has extended the deadline to remove hanging cables to August 31. The Corporation received assurances that operators will remove hanging cables from two main stretches, Sarojini Devi Eye Hospital to HICC via Road No 36 Jubilee Hills and from the Assembly to Sanathnagar.
Man killed in road mishap
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ohd Sami, a 28 year old man, died in a road mishap late on Friday night at Katta Hussain Sagar. Sami, a resident of Moin Bagh, was working with a private firm and was returning home on his bike when a speeding lorry hit him from behind, killing him on the spot. The Gandhinagar police have registered a case and body has been sent for autopsy.
Boy killed, cops drag feet MOHD SUBHAN
mohd.s@postnoon.com
I
n a shocking case, a 14 year old student was killed by friends nearly nine days ago. Yet the Chaderghat police has done little in terms of investigations so far. While they have admitted that the SSC student had died under suspicious circumstances, they claim they are waiting for the post-mortem results to proceed any further. Syed Habeebuddin Ghouri, son of Mohd Samiuddin Ghouri
a homeguard at Mirchowk Police Station, was murdered last week but so far the police have not taken any action. The boy, a resident of Wahed Nagar of Old Malakpet, was stuyding in a private school, said Chaderghat inspector Syed Nayeemuddin Javed. He added that Habeeb’s death occurred due to head injuries on August 9 and he was shifted to Osmania General Hospital where he succumbed to his wounds. His
HABEEB HAD ALLEGEDLY GOTTEN INTO A PETTY QUARREL WITH FRIEND JAVED, FOLLOWING WHICH THE LATTER BEAT HIM UP, CAUSING HIS DEATH. shocked family assumed he had died of natural causes and conducted his burial the next day. It was only after Habeeb had been buried did his father get a tip off from one of the boy’s friends about the actual reason of his demise. According to Asif (name changed), Habeeb’s
friend, the victim had a fight with his friend Javed (name changed) over a petty issue. It was during this altercation that Javed beat up the victim causing his death. Following this, Habeeb’s father lodged a complaint with the Chaderghat police and on August 14 the boy’s body was exhumed and sent to OGH for a post-mortem, where the HOD Dr T Harikrishna conducted the autopsy. In the meantime, the police claim that they are waiting for the post-mortem results to take any further action. When Postnoon contacted Dr Harikrishna, he said that the boy’s death had occurred due to multiple injuries and wounds on
SYED MAZHER ALI
the head, indicating that he had been beaten to death. Despite Asif ’s statement to the police, little has been done in terms of investigation in what appears to be a murder case.
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CITY SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2012
‘We need to be cautious, not scared’ North-eastern students in the City say that they will continue staying in Hyderabad in spite of the rumours and ‘threats’. SUDESHNA KOKA
sudeshna.k@postnoon.com
H
ate mails, posters, provocative messages, and free special trains back to Assam — no one knows whether these are rumours or the truth. But whatever it may be, it has triggered tension among the people from the North-East. However, the student community seems to be unaffected by the turmoil. Life for them is as usual and are going to continue staying in the City. “Why should we feel unsafe? It’s our own country. The Constitution of India says that one can travel and settle anywhere in the country. We are very much a part of the country like anyone else. We won’t get scared and leave,” said Alexander Kynjing, a fourth year Nalsar Law College student. Students living on the campus feel safe and most of them believe that they need to be cautious not scared or worried. “The North-Eastern Students Forum also conducted a sensitisation meeting and a peace rally yesterday. We are very safe and have no reason to worry,” said Bipin, a student from the University of Hyderabad. Students are only worried about their parents who have expressed concern about their safety. Montul Tal, from Guwahati, a fourth year Nalsar student said, “My mother keeps calling but I told them that it is
A poster made by the Osmania University students offering assistance to the North-Eastern students. okay as Hyderabad is a safe place to live. What is happening in Assam is a livelihood issue; unfortunately the other states are turning it into a communal one. We came here to study and live a free life; things like this should not affect us. For the last three years I have been going to the City to celebrate Eid and this year too I will be going.” Students say that they are as much informed as anyone else in Hyderabad. “We did not get any messages or any threats related to the recent crisis. In fact, at the University of Hyderabad we are barely affected. We got to know about the whole issue only through the media. Moreover, we have spoken to our families back home and it appears as though
The CMs of other states are giving us assurance that don't worry you are safe. They should talk to those who are harming us. They should be warned not us. What did we even do? Alexander Kynjing, Nalsar student whatever is being projected is hyped and fabricated,” said Samik M, an M Phil student, UOH. A few students from Loyola
Degree college which is located in the City say that they are not worried. “None of our student friends have left the City and the main question is why should we leave? We are not criminals,” questioned Rehan M, a Loyola student. Students across the City are clear on their stand that they have not received any threat calls or messages and they do not consider this as reason enoughleave their academics and the City. Students unions have taken the initiative and are trying to spread a positive message through a social networking site. OU students have given an open message that any NorthEastern students felling unsafe can approach them.
We will come back, say migrants
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hey say Nawabs are kind and generous by nature. Truly representing this are four IT professionals who decided to take up an issue. On a Saturday morning, few hours before the East-Cost Express to Howrah departed, they were at the railway platform talking to and counselling the North-Eastern migrants not to leave the City. “We have been living in Hyderabad for years now and when we heard that people were leaving our City because it’s not safe, we could not digest that. “Hence, we went to the station to understand what they are feeling, what their apprehensions are and how we could help,” said Shashank R, volunteer, National Alliance of People's Movements. After spending a few hours they realised that majority were scared and did not want to share their reasons for leaving. While others claimed that they were leaving just to take a break. “The positive part is that they all want to come back. Few of the groups told us that their families were worried and they were going back just to pacify them,” said Shashank R Around 500 NorthEastern citizens left this morning from Secunderabad. A majority of them were migrant labourers and families.
Home minister promises security ahmed.m@postnoon.com
A
ndhra Pradesh home minister Patolla Sabitha Indra Reddy convened a high level meeting with various State government officials on the issue of exodus of Assam residents from the State. Two cabinet ministers from the Assam government also participated. These ministers included public enterprises minister Praduth Bordoli and forest minister Rakibul Hussain. Hyderabad police commissioner Anurag Sharma also attended this meeting. The official meeting discussed the steps required
to be taken up to prevent the Assamese from leaving the State. The home Minister also held a meeting with City-based security agencies, which employ a large number of Assam residents. The meeting was convened in the wake of home minister Sabitha Indra Reddy's Friday visit to Siddique Nagar and Anjaiahnagar areas where North-Eastern residents especially Assamese and Manipuris live in large numbers. These two areas, which come under Serilingampally Assembly constituency were in the limelight following recent reports. The minister issued a directive to the commissioner to provide extra
N SHIVA KUMAR
Md Inkeshaf Ahmed
The home minister meeting the security agency heads and police officers.
security to those working in these IT-security agencies. Both the Assam ministers also accompanied the minister during her visit. Addressing the gathering, the minister appealed to them not to panic and promised that the State would provide security. She announced that a special helpline numbers will be set up for the convenience of the North -Eastern residents in both Hyderabad and Cyberabad police commissionerates. She asked the residents not to believe any rumours. And said that according to information, many of the Assamese have gone to meet their parents following the recent riots there.
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NATION SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2012
Woman gangraped
Shramshakti Express derails
BJP CMs meet on economy
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woman was allegedly gangraped at Golf Garden Road in Tollygunje area here tonight. Locals said the woman was forcibly taken away from the road by some people and was later raped. However, police did not confirm the incident. No complaint has been officially lodged as yet, police said.
engine of the Shramshakti Express derailed in the morning in a yard near Kanpur station, disrupting train traffic on the JhansiBanda route. No passenger was injured in the derailment.The incident took place at 6 am when the train was coming to Kanpur from Delhi and halted at Juhi Yard just near the main station.
haratiya Janata Party (BJP) chief ministers and key party leaders from all states Saturday met here to discuss economic situation in the country. The meeting, presided over by BJP president Nitin Gadkari, will reflect on the economy in the light of ongoing global economic downturn and deficient rainfall in the country.
Former Haryana minister Kanda surrenders
SLINGS AND STONES
NEW DELHI: Former Haryana
A policeman throws stones at Kashmiri Muslim protesters during an anti-India protest after Jummat-Ul-Vida prayers, last Friday prayers, in downtown Srinagar on Friday. AFP/ROUF BHAT
minister Gopal Goyal Kanda, accused of abetting the suicide of former flight attendant Geetika Sharma, surrendered early today (Saturday) at a police station here, an official said. He has been arrested. Kanda had been absconding since Aug 8 after Sharma, 23, blamed him and another official of his now-defunct MDLR Airlines, Aruna Chadha, for harassing her and forcing her to commit suicide. She died on the night of Aug 4-5. “He (Kanda) surrendered at Bharat Nagar police station at around 4 a.m. He has been arrested,” a police official said. “He is likely to be produced in the court later in the day,” the official added. While Kanda’s brother had informed the police about the possibility of his surrender, it was after hours of drama that the former Haryana minister surrendered. Kanda owned the MDLR Airlines where Sharma worked as a flight attendant. After the airline ceased to function in
2009, Sharma was given a job in another company owned by him. According to Geetika’s brother, Ankit Sharma, his sister was being constantly mentally harassed by Kanda and his colleague Aruna Chadha. Chadha, a senior functionary with now defunct MDLR airlines, has been arrested and is in judicial custody. Kanda, who resigned as minister of state for home and urban local bodies in Haryana, was booked for abetment to suiIANS cide by Delhi Police.
Doctored MMS triggered violence PUNE: The spectacle of fear-stricken residents from North East swarming Pune railway station in a desperate bid to head for their home states, has had a benumbing effect on the second capital of Maharashtra which is still coming to terms with what could have been a potentially catastrophic serial bomb explosions a few days back. Despite stepped up efforts by authorities, social organisations and help groups to remove the fear stalking hundreds of students and workers from Assam and Manipur, rattled by beastly attacks in the last four days in Kondhwa, Hadapsar and Cantonment areas of the city, they continued to make a beeline towards the railway station. Their only goal for the time being appeared to catch “Azad Hind Express” that leaves the city every evening for Howrah. “We are returning as our parents are worried. I will come back
but as of now I am leaving with nine of my friends from Imphal,” said a female student at the railway station. Police believe that doctored MMS and SMS were the main provocation behind the attacks since
August 12 in which about 15 NE residents in certain localities were targeted. Two of the 13 persons arrested by police reportedly confessed that the MMS and SMS that depicted violent incidents in Myanmar and Assam turned them vengeful, sources said. After approaching Facebook, Youtube and Google to remove some “objectionable links” and five videos in respect of the Assam violence, city police have now filed a complaint against “unknown persons” under the IT act, accusing them of exploiting the social networking sites to spread offensive false and intimidating messages. According to City Police Commissioner Gulabrao Pol, who has circulated a message in the city guaranteeing safety of NE people asking them not to heed rumours, the situation had been totally under control after police swung into action to book the culprit.
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WORLD SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2012
Brahimi new Syria conflict envoy
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akhdar Brahimi, a veteran diplomat troubleshooter, will take over from Kofi Annan as the international envoy on the Syria conflict, the United Nations said. UN leader Ban Ki-moon appealed to the divided international powers to give “strong, clear and unified” support to the new envoy, who in turn said he was not confident he could end the 17-month-old civil war. Annan is stepping down at the end of the month.
Pussy Riot verdict angers Russians
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16-yr-old charged with murder
MOSCOW: Anti-Putin punks Pussy Riot were sentenced to two years each Friday over a protest in Moscow, sparking anger among their supporters. Judge Marina Syrova ruled the three women’s February performance of a “punk prayer” urging the Virgin Mary to “drive Putin out” was “hooliganism aimed at inciting religious hated.” “Today the regime has both openly
New anti-Putin song out
T
he punk protestors released a new anti-Putin single today via the Guardian. The newspaper edited the song to Pussy Riot’s Moscow’s Cathedral of Christ the Savior performance, courtroom pictures and worldwide demonstrations of solidarity. The montage ends with a picture of two Pussy Riot members looking out of their courtroom cage. It’s an appropriate ending now that the three women have been sentenced to 2 years in prison for hooliganism motivated by religious hate.
and cynically committed a criminal act,” opposition lawmaker Dmitry Gudkov told journalists outside a Moscow court, adding that the trial was an example of political “repression”
that risked triggering “civil war”. But the Orthodox Church appeared to seek a compromise after the sentence was announced, calling on the authorities to show “mercy” to the women. The Church had previously declined to issue a public appeal for the women’s release. A White House spokesman called the sentence “disproportionate” and said the US had “serious concerns about the way these young women have been treated by the Russian judicial system”. Police said they made “over 50 arrests” as protests took place outside the court after sentencing. A possible diplomatic incident arose after police chased a protester into the nearby Turkish embassy. Defence lawyers for Nadezhda Tolokonnikova, 22, Maria Alyokhina, 24, and Yekaterina Samutsevich, 30, had said the performance was not anti-religion and was a response to Orthodox Church support for Vladimir Putin ahead of the March presidential polls. The protest in the Christ the Savior Cathedral, where Russia’s leaders traditionally celebrate religious holidays, came amid the largest anti-government demonstrations in modern Russia’s history. A host of Western and Russian celebrities had spoken out in support of the group in recent weeks, including ex-Beatle Paul McCartney and US pop diva Madonna.
MILWAUKEE: A 16year-old felon from Milwaukee has been charged with the fatal shooting of Dalbir Singh, a member of the Oak Creek gurdwara where six worshippers were gunned down Aug 5. According to the criminal complaint, Deangelo Williams shot and killed Dalbir Singh at Harmony Food Store, owned by his nephew Jatinder Singh, on Wednesday around 9.15 pm, according to local TV station TMJ4. Jatinder Singh, who was with his uncle during the shooting, told police he was closing up the store Wednesday night when he allegedly saw Williams point a gun at his uncle near the rear door. Jatinder Singh and Dalbir Singh then ran back inside the store and held the door in such a way that shielded the suspect from getting in. Then Jatinder Singh claims the suspect fired a gun through the door and it struck Dalbir Singh in the head.
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CLASSIFIEDS SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2012
Symphony academy of music By Rachel Chase Music does emanate from our alarm clocks in the morning, fill our cars, give us chilies and make us cry. The researchers found that music powerfully influenced the emotional ratings of faces. Happy music made happy faces even happier while sad music. Although it probably seems obvious that music can evoke emotions, it is to this day not clear why? With 20th and 21st century music there was a vast increase in music listening to radio and phonographs, the focus of art music was characterized by exploration of new rhythms, styles and sounds. The invention of sound recording and ability to edit music gave rise to new sub-genre of classical music. Symphony Academy of Music creates new approaches to music teachings to learn and integrate music with to traditional practice to inspire, broaden the musical passion in students. At Symphony Academy of Music, the curriculum is comprehensive that provides a foundation of skills, knowledge and thinking that inspires that enables students to realize and sustain life in music. Envisioned by David chase, director of Symphony Academy of Music, with the music experience of over 20 years, is an amalgamation of cultures and experiences coming from various backgrounds all molded into each another to serve one common passion - music. Mr. David Chase, today stand recognized for his superior musicianship and for his significant contribution to the field of music and
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production. Dedicated towards creating new and pioneer approach in teaching forms of art in music. The objective of the academy remains the effective integration of the traditional practices in a contemporary setup- to inspire, broaden and connect the passion of students in rapidly evolving world. This in sign with practical training and personal instruction at Symphony Academy of Music makes experience fun, fulfilling and memorable in more than one. Symphony Academy of Music nurtures and learning to cultivate thinkers and innovators, thus preparing the students to engage, adapts and thrives as leaders of change in music and society. Symphony Academy of Music’s philosophy and goal is to bring music into people’s life and to assist and guide in the process of learning music. The successful completion of 20 years of service to the society, the Chase brothers delightfully recall the establishment of their first institute in S.R. nagar, Hyderabad in October 1992.Their dedicated and hard work since then resulted in expanding our organization enabling them together to offer a valuable opening in the study and learning of Music at S.R. nagar,ECIL,W.Mareddpally,Neredmet,Anan dbagh,Karkahna,Tarnaka & S. Africa and no doubt that a good number of Music lovers have been benefited by them. For Details Call: 65917744, 9866333645
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COMMENT SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2012
We will not abandon you
A moving story
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propos Assam exodus: Our shameful silence. Support Indians. Support the citizens of the North East. Stop the rumours and the mass exodus. We stand with you fellow citizens of the North East: We will not abandon you. You are citizens of India. Nikheil Via email
propos How Baby got home. This is a very moving story, Mary & Baby you are beautiful souls. I wish many people in India could read this story and be moved as well and change their minds about the wonderful Pariah dogs in India. Sonia Heller Via email
EDITORIALS Readers’ views We invite you to write to us comments, suggestions, viewpoint or just about anything to feedback@postnoon.com or #1246, Level 3, Jubilee Casa, Road No 62, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad – 500 033
Arsenal: Formidable no more
V
an Persie’s going to Manchester United is without doubt the worst blow that Arsenal could have suffered. They were teetering on the brink the last EPL season in the initial stages and RVP played a huge role in their comeback in the later stages. What will Wenger do now? Vijay S Gachibowli
EDITORIALS PUTIN HAS ‘belled the cats’ Liberal-minded people all over the world, it seems, were hoping against hope. Despite the huge uproar and outrage, the members of Pussy Riots were found guilty of “hooliganism” motivated by religious hatred and face two years in prison colony. Vladmir Putin, who appeared so gracious and forgiving that he said he did not personally want harsh sentences for the trio, may probably be the most despised man in the world. It is a joke that Maria Alyokhina, 24, Nadezhda Tolokonnikova, 22, and Yekaterina Samutsevich, 30, were accused of religious hatred for their anti-Putin “punk prayer” inside Moscow's Cathedral of Christ the Saviour. Though it was Judge Marina Syrova who read out their verdict, it reeked of Putin. The Russian strongman has used this opportunity to stamp his authority and send a message across that dissent will not be tolerated. The point he is missing is he will be looked down upon by his people and the world. And this is the man who had a fan following in his country sometime ago. Perhaps Putin is insecure about his political future, worried that if he does not nip the bud of dissent, this could snowball into something that could end him and his cronies. It’s time he paid heed to his people. Or he can go on being the most despised man in Russia.
WHY WE LOVE... VVS Laxman Reports have emerged that the man with the “wristy, willowy and sinuous” style may call it a day soon. It seems his retirement was hastened by the constant panning by commentators and armchair experts. It will be a long time before we see something like his brilliant 281 at Eden Garden against the Aussies in 2001.
The imaginary friend Soul Curry SUMAA TEKUR
I
spent the mid-week Independence Day holiday on Wednesday, August 15, at a family friend’s new home. It was a small group that gathered for lunch on a relaxed day off. We discussed, amongst other things, the power of imagination. The host’s two-and-ahalf-year old daughter, Aditi, recently joined a play home in the neighbourhood. The little girl’s mother complained about how Aditi wouldn’t let go of her stuffed toy, and even took it to school with her. She had to take special permission from the school teachers to allow Aditi to carry the stuffed toy with her. Aditi simply refused to leave the house without her imaginary friend. The stuffed toy was an old, battered copy of the spinacheating cartoon character, Popeye. Popeye had been in their house for the last eight
years. Aditi’s elder brother first played with it and then, as all hand-me-downs go between siblings, passed it on to her. Aditi’s relationship with Popeye is reminiscent of the relationship between Calvin and his stuffed tiger Hobbes (whom Calvin thinks is alive) in Bill Waterson’s famous comic strip. Aditi’s parents spoke about how she takes Popeye with her everywhere, talks to him regularly, cares for him, feeds him, tells him stories before putting him to sleep. When the family makes travel plans, Popeye is included without second thought. As a result, Popeye has travelled to Singapore, Malaysia, Korea, Kerala, and even sought the blessings of Lord Venkateswara in Tirupati, etc. Aditi does not allow Popeye to be washed, by hand or in the washing machine. Her mother once managed to take Popeye away from Aditi and put him in the washing machine. The sight of Popeye tumbling and spinning in the machine was too traumatic for Aditi. She asked for the machine to be stopped
MAINTAINING RELA-
TIONSHIPS WITH IMAGINARY CHARACTERS KEEPS THAT WINDOW TO THE SPIRITUAL REALM OPEN, WHICH IS WHAT KIDS MOSTLY DO. immediately and for Popeye to be rescued. It is believed that when we’re younger, only a few years into our birth, we still connect to the spiritual realm, and divide our mental time living both in the spiritual and physical worlds. Highly creative and intelligent children are known to have very high imagination. Coupled with the courage to follow their dreams and desires, these are also the children who often grow up to be achievers and thinkers of significant importance. Maintaining relationships with imaginary characters keeps that window to the spiritual realm open, which is what
kids mostly do. This is also a source of creativity, in which kids question, wonder, think, and feed their curiosity. As they grow older, they are taught that it is ‘normal’ to live in the physical human world and spend more time here, which is how they gradually outgrow their relationships in the imaginary world and connect with the ‘real’ world. However, how we break free from this imaginary world during childhood is what determines how imaginative we continue to be as adults. This is an important process to retain creativity drawn from imagination. Imagination is essential for the human mind. Without imagination, it’s impossible to create anything, or to even know progress the way we know it today. All adults, once in a while, might be able to connect with their creative sides by communicating with their own Popeyes. Just imagine the number of ideas that could come to the fore! Who knows, it might even purify us of our love for reality.
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COMMENT SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2012
Words! Words! Words! I am so in love with words! My World SHRADDHA JAHAGIRDAR-SAXENA
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or as long as I can remember My World has been peopled by books – in fact, more inhabited by books than actual people who filled my consciousness much much later. Initially, the world of words – that I first heard and then read – captivated my mind and imagination. Perhaps my early initiation to the ABCs that make up our books – and not just for my lessons – made books for me pleasurable, not mere tomes to rote learn from. I consider myself immensely lucky in this regard to be born to parents who appreciated and inculcated a love of reading. Both believed that it is better to gift a child a book rather than a toy. (I was luckier that I often got both!) So long before I could walk I heard stories. One of the earliest set of books I was told entered our home was The Cat in The Hat series. The Cat in the Hat, The Cat in the Hat Comes Back and I Can Read With My
Urban sketches VISWAPRASAD RAJU
Eyes Shut were not only staples of my infancy but I went hunting for them when my daughter was born – enjoying reading it out to her as much as she loved listening to the words. Unlike Eliza Doolittle in My Fair Lady I never had the desire to scream “Words! Words! Words! I'm so sick of words!” As I grew, my constant companions became my books – I was no nerd, mind you. I enjoyed playing hide and seek, cricket, baseball, went swimming in our society’s pool and returned home to a well-earned dinner and a read just before sleeping. While other children had to be told to pick up a book, I remember being yelled at for reading long after my bedtime. In my childhood, the huge chain of bookstores that dot our cityscape today were nowhere in sight. Small bookshops were the order of the day and one that remains my favourite to date is Strand Book Store in Fountain. Long are the hours I spent there with my father – a bookworm himself – and we always left with piles of book in our bags. Buying a book was an experience in itself – as soon as I walk into any bookstore with new books in it, I shut my eyes. It
may sound a bit OTT, but fresh books do have a smell to them and create an atmosphere that can be physically felt. If you asked me to choose books that have created a lasting impact on my mind, it would be difficult to pick just one or two. All of Enid Blyton’s works created a small little universe that a young child could venture into. The Mallory Towers and St Claire series provided a funfilled spectrum of boarding school life while the Famous Five kept me engrossed with
their antics trying to solve crimes in the neighbourhood. And believe it or not I also loved Biggles – and his adventures in the air. Naturally, Shakespeare, Shaw, Hardy, Maugham, O Henry and the more recent John Irving, Dan Brown, Irving Wallace and more found place on my bookshelves. Smaller romantic reads did too as I passed through the adolescent phase but they did not stay for long there. Those were mostly library borrows.
I read and revisited Ayn Rand and her many books as I moved from my teens to my twenties. John Galt – at that time he seemed so interesting and a step ahead from Howard Roark – and his philosophy was one that our world seemed to lack, one that it seemed to need. Today, as I see kids hooked on to e-entertainments or more often than not reading books on kindle – or even ordering them from websites – I feel they are missing out on the physicality that a book brings to your mental world. The latest talk of the town is The Fifty Shades trilogy which has given the Harry Potter series a run for its money in terms of sales and popularity. The latter is housed in my cupboard, the former, not yet. And, I have engaged in endless discussions when a book turned into a film – from Gone With The Wind to the Harry Potter series – as to which one was better – the book or the movie. But more of that next time. Shraddha Jahagirdar-Saxena, currently Executive Editor, VERVE magazine, has written on a variety of subjects in the last two decades and more.
Global edits
Heritage
New York Times (US)
That hot new rifle from Russia
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n an eerie postscript to the cold war, American gun enthusiasts have been buying Kalashnikov rifles and shotguns by the tens of thousands, helping the Russian arms manufacturer stay afloat in a global market oversaturated with its AK-47s, long the weapon of choice among the world’s insurgents and armies. American sales of singleshot civilian versions of the Kalashnikov rose by 50 per cent last year among buyers impressed with the automatic model’s lethal accuracy in the world’s trouble spots. The manufacturer, the Izhevsk Machine Works, is quickly increasing production of the civilian version, benefiting from the fact that American gun laws are weaker than Russian laws, Andrew Kramer of The Times reported. Russians can buy only a long-barrel firearm if they have a police permit that requires a clean criminal record, a gun safety course and a medical certificate of sanity. That’s right: a medical certificate of sanity — something American politicians dare not dream of under the intimidating shadow of the gun lobby.
THE MANUFACTURER, THE IZHEVSK MACHINE WORKS, IS QUICKLY INCREASING PRODUCTION OF THE CIVILIAN VERSION. The timidity of the political class when it comes to gun control — presidential candidates included — was sadly highlighted last month after the massacre in Aurora, Colo. Proposals to control high-powered weaponry — or at least ban the absurd 100-round clip used in the assault — quickly fell by the wayside as politicians refused, once again, to take firm control of gun sales. As further evidence of the gun lobby’s influence, 51 United States senators sent President Obama and Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton a letter late last month expressing “grave concerns” over a proposed United Nations treaty to try to control runaway global arms trafficking in conventional weapons. The main worry of the 43 Republicans and eight Democrats was that the treaty would impinge on Americans’ Second Amendment right to bear arms, a right the Obama administration stressed was well protected.
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BUSINESS SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2012
Kumble rings Nasdaq bell
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ndian cricketer Anil Kumble rang the closing bell at the Nasdaq Stock Exchange to commemorate India's 66th Independence Day. Kumble was accompanied by members of the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), which is one of the largest umbrella organisations of the Indian community in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut.
Sharp to cut more jobs
Apple stock hits new high
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pple’s stock price leaped to a new high on Friday amid rumours the tech giant is poised to hit the market with new versions of iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV devices. Shares rose nearly two percent to $648.11 by the end of the formal trading day on the Nasdaq exchange, buoyed by a Jefferies investment bank analyst advising clients that the price could climb to $900.
apan’s Sharp is considering cutting thousands of jobs in addition to its current plan of slashing 5,000 jobs to repair its disintegrating balance sheet, a report said. As the struggling electronics maker decided to cut more jobs, its main banks are likely to provide bridge loans of about 60 billion yen ($755 million) to shore up Sharp’s cash flow.
Shopping made ‘e’asy Since traffic and parking woes make purchase of essentials a nightmare, Ravindranath and Vamsi came up with a solution in an e-store from where one can shop at the click of a button.
Vamsi and Ravi with their team
SRINIVAS SETTY
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Ravindranath Yarlagadda and Vamsi Kiran, co-founders, Myvirtualplaza.
PRUDHVI RAJU K
prudhvi.k@postnoon.com
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ow good is it to scan and shop all the groceries while you are waiting for a local train or while jogging in a park and have it delivered at your home in the next 24 hours? Ravindranath Yarlagadda and Vamsi Kiran have started Myvirutalplaza to convert this idea into reality. The company initially started off selling grocery and electronics online. This e-commerce store is planning to introduce the first virtual QR code-based grocery store in the country later this year. The duo faced many a challenge in starting up the e-commerce store. However, with support of friends and a team, they started the store, which sells groceries and vegetables within a radius of 20km around Manikonda, while the electronics appliances are delivered throughout the country. Talking about entrepreneurship, Ravi Yarlagadda said, “It was my dream to become an entrepreneur. My father is a central-government employee and had a middleclass
life. To grow in life, entrepreneurship is the only way forward,” Talking about his background, he says, “I am an engineering graduate in electronics and electrical engineering (EEE) from MIST in the City. Prior to starting the company, I was working with Omnitoons in Singapore. Initially, my parents did not support the idea of starting my own business. It is hard for them to convince our relatives wherein entrepreneurship is never an accepted career option. “If the business is successful, everything will be fine or even parents need to face the consequences. There is a saying, ‘success hugs you in private but failure slaps you in public’. If it is successful, we will become entrepreneurs, while failure leaves us with experience. However, we will not have regrets in future about an idea that was not executed,” On the business idea, he says, “It is to substitute normal retail shopping with e-commerce shopping. Traffic and parking problems are making shopping a terrible and timeconsuming experience. The holiday that comes after a long and tiring week should not be spent shopping. Our mantra is simple: You order, and we shop and deliver for you.” It is the LinkedIn social networking site that helped duo come
SRINIVAS SETTY
together. “I posted my business idea on LinkedIn, seeking a partner with similar interests. This fortunately helped me not only find a business partner but also a very good friend. Vamsi did his MBA and was working at Alcatel-Lucent in France and looking for a similar partner. The company is aiming to have one lakh-registered customers by the end of December by offering initial discounts. “We aim to offer vegetables around 20 per cent lesser than at other supermarkets and have other value-added services, like group discounts based on the number of people that purchase a similar item on a given day. We also offer corporate discounts and discountbased points for watching a video ad on our e-store,” says Vamsi. Talking about the virtual store, he says the model was an instant success in Korea. The first virtual store will open in Hitec City this October. Based on the response, the company plans to start five to six virtual stores in prime locations. Eventually, the company plans to bring QR code-based virtual shopping even to airports, metro and famous parks. City shoppers can buy products by simply scanning QR codes that are displayed in the store with their smartphones and the products will be delivered at their home in the next 24 hours.
Initial investments: `30 lakh Operational margins: 12-15 per cent Employees: 20 Products: 5,000
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Expansion plans: To establish the first virtual plaza in the City in the third quarter FY2012. To expand the grocery and vegetable e-commerce services throughout the country in the second quarter of FY2013. To start virtual plazas in major tier-1 cities in the third quarter of FY2013. Breakeven: By the end of 2013.
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MOTORING SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2012
Ford invests on battery-power
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Ford Motor Co., debuting five battery-powered models this year, is spending $135 million to design electric-drive parts and double battery testing capacity. The goal of the new investment is to give consumers "faster access to Ford’s latest and greatest in fuel-saving technologies and vehicles.
Jaguar plans all-wheel-drive
The rich drives cheap cars
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aguar — moving to stay competitive in the luxury sedan segment — will offer all-wheel drive on the 2013 XJ and XF. Jaguar has not offered awd since it discontinued the X-Type in the United States after the 2008 model year. All-wheel drive will be available with a new 3.0-liter V-6 engine on the XF and the standard and long-wheelbase XJ sedans.
he wealthiest Americans are cheapskates, at least as far as their taste in automobiles goes. Perhaps that is why some rich Americans stay rich. Based on the 20 top-selling cars from Truecar's report, 24/7 Wall St. identified the eight cheap cars the richest Americans drive. The average price of eight of the cars among the top 10 was less than $40,000.
Show me the money Despite being expensive, luxury cars still manage to catch the fancy of car owners for various reasons. We take a look at the many means that these owners employ to roll along in these fancy machines. RAHUL RAMAKRISHNA
rahul.r@postnoon.com
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yderabad boasts of a high number of luxury car owners so much so that it has become a common thing to spot a Rolls Royce Phantom or a Jaguar in the city. Sources in a car manufacturing company, here, reveal, the sales of luxury cars in the city has been growing at average 20 per cent since two years. Now any luxury car be it Sedan, Hatchback, Coupe or Convertible has an average going price of `55 lakh to `2 crore. Aditya Kodali is a proud owner of an Audi Q5. He says, “There are many ways of owning a luxury car. The general trend in buying cars these days, is to acquire them on an installment basis. For example, a lot of companies buy cars on installment basis so that it helps them in filing a better IT tax returns file. Apart from the corporates, other owners too prefer to acquire them on EMIs and later make money out of it by resale.” Also the amount of liquidity a person has is a deciding factor in luxury car sales. Most of the luxury cars get sold like hotcakes in the months of February and March. The reason— it is the end of the financial year and makes for a good tax return file. Srikanth Chakkilam, who owns a BMW 5 says, “Since most of these cars go at an average `60 lakh to `1 crore price, people generally prefer to buy them on installment basis. Also, the tastes and fancies of luxury car owners keeps varying. “So a one time down payment is not feasible. Also, resale becomes easy
MOST OF THE LUXURY CARS GET SOLD LIKE HOTCAKES IN THE MONTHS OF FEBRUARY AND MARCH. THE REASON— IT IS THE END OF THE FINANCIAL YEAR AND MAKES FOR A GOOD TAX RETURN FILE. with EMIs.” Sources also reveal that the sale of luxury cars has shot up to 12,000 in 2011. Currently Audi is the hot favourite among the car owners in Hyderabad, with the luxury car janta waiting eagerly to set their hands on the Audi A3 due to be released in 2013. BMW and Land Rover stand not too far away. The erstwhile Hyderabadi favourite Mercedes also runs on this sales race track. While installments may be a profitable business venture, some believe that luxury cars ought to be acquired on a single one time payment basis. Shakti Reddy, a proud owner of a Jaguar XF says, “The aesthetics of owning a car depends on how one acquires it. Though it might be a personal choice the trend of buying second hand, used luxury cars at cheaper prices and using them to make money through lease has caught up very much in the city. “I personally think that if a good car were bought on installment basis, it works out to be more expensive than a single outright purchase. Besides, I won’t even feel like I own the car,” he exclaims. Whatever the means may be, the benefits of owning a luxury car are many. The lure of making money out of this is perhaps too good to let go of for the Hyderabadi crowd.
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TECHNOLOGY SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2012
WEBSITE OF THE WEEK www.billbaba.com illbaba is a great way to track your bills, payment schedule and even stuff you have lent out. You can also analyse your spending habits set financial goals and receive alerts for the same via SMS, email and facebook.
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MOBILE GAME REVIEW
APP OF THE WEEK MyGameStats
PINBALL ARCADE
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hether you play casually with your mates once a week, you play as a part of a team or you’re a grassroots footballer hoping to make it big time, MyGameStats is the one app you must have on your iPhone.
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f you’re a fan of the good old Pinball, this app will suits your purpose. The game follows the premium model, allowing you to play one of the tables for free, you’ll need to pay up to play more challenging tables and to compete.
The Facebook killer? Can an ad-free social network with a $50 registration fee replace Facebook and Twitter? A famous developer from Silicon Valley certainly thinks it is possible
Startup Watch
NT BALANARAYAN
balanarayan.nt@postnoon.com
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very now and then when social networks become bloated and start taking measures that its users hate, another one rises to take its place. App.net a new paid decentralised social network proposed by Dalton Caldwell plans to take on Twitter and Facebook, which have taken several measures much to the displeasure of developers who build applications around them. It will be an open social network and will not display any ads or
The company has recently been opened to the public. NT BALANARAYAN
balanarayan.nt@postnoon.com
What is Treetle?
App.net works very much like Twitter, but it’ll offer features and an ecosystem similar to Facebook. sell your personal information to make money. It’ll instead be a paid network — you’ll need to pay an annual fee of $50 to be a member. Dalton Caldwell is no newbie, he was the ex-Napster developer who started a music streaming start-up imeem which was bought and was later shut down by MySpace. He later on developed Picplz, a direct competitor to Instagram. He shut down Picplz after Facebook bought Instagram. App.net will work pretty much like Twitter, with users posting short updates, but it’ll offer features and an ecosystem offered by Facebook. It’ll also let you cross-post to Twitter and Facebook and pull in data from these networks much like Friendfeed. He reassures multiple times through blog posts that he will not “screw over” developers like Facebook and Twitter does. Caldwell recently pulled up Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg in a blog post for the way it functions. “Your company, and Twitter, have demonstrably
Treetle lets you build interest-based groups based on your location. The company was in a beta and opened to the public only recently.
Who’s behind it?
Caldwell and app.net CTO Bryan Berg with Mark Zuckerberg
proven that they are willing to screw with users and 3rd-party developer ecosystems, all in the name of ad-revenue. Once you start down the slippery-slope of messing with developers and users, I don’t have any confidence you will stop,” he wrote. He says that future social networks will behave more like infrastructure and less like media companies; as a platform rather than as a product itself.
Defending the idea of a paid social network, he says that, services such as Twitter and Facebook are forced to sell the content rather than the platform as they believe the content is their core asset. Caldwell on the other hand believes the infrastructure he provides for others to create the content is the core and he says that he is only charging developers and users for this infrastructure.
Venture Capitalist Fred Wilson however believes that the free ad-supported model works for social networks. “I understand the frustration of certain folks about the commercialisation of Twitter, Facebook, Tumblr, and a host of other services. I understand the frustration over the increasing lock down of the APIs and the control these platforms are exercising on their ecosystems. I would encourage folks to compete with them to keep the web, the mobile web, and the Internet free and open. But I would not encourage those same folks to build paid services. I think their goals will be undermined by that choice,” he wrote recently. Ultimately it all comes to down to a simple question for users of Facebook and Twitter. Should you pay $50 a year or let Facebook and Twitter sell your information so you can use it for free? What would you choose? The company recently raised $500,000 via Kickstarter to start the company, if you want to access and check out the service, visit http://app.net/.
The site is the brainchild of Pankaj Dugar, who before setting out as an entrepreneur, held multiple senior roles in sales, strategy, operations, investments and M&A across many industry sectors, for two decades in the US.
Why should you use it? With unique features such as ‘recommendations’ and ‘credits and appreciation’, It provides users with a meaningful way to engage with each other as the interaction is more closely defined.
What are they planning next? They are planning a Facebook app so they can reach a wider audience. As of now users can register and login via Facebook Connect. If you’re interested head over to http://treetle.com.
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ANIMAL KINGDOM SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2012
PET NEWS Roof Rack
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Extinction theory
evo’s next song is about Mitt Romney’s dog. The American new wave band are putting an Irish setter front and centre on Don’t Roof Rack Me, Bro! (Remember Seamus), which takes fire at Romney.
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hen a carnivore becomes extinct, other predatory species could soon follow, according to new research. A University of Exeter team has now carried out the first experiment to prove it.
IMPORTANT NUMBERS
Know the breed
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he Jack Russell is a happy, bold, energetic dog; they are extremely loyal, intelligent and assertive. Their greatest attribute is their working ability, closely followed by their excellent qualities as a companion.
CATS AND DOGS The Animal Care Clinic 040-2335 2474 Pet’s World Dog Clinic 98856 46259 Blue Cross of Hyderabad 040-3298 9858, 23544355/ 5523 Vet-N-Pet 040-6553 9535, 93463 05890 Bluplus Pet Clinic 040-2712 1739, 2716 2636 Sri Sai Pet Clinic
040-2779 7458, 9848645350 Claws & Paws 98662 82772 All Creatures Animals Clinic 040-2773 0885 BIRDS Govt Veterinary Hospital 040-2331 9656, 2753 5755 Bird Watcher’s Society 040-2355 6166 Friends of Birds9391048315 SNAKES Friends of Snakes 8374233366
A profession in danger Hyderabad has only one veterinary science college and the course has few takers. We look at the reasons for this dismal scenario. SUDESHNA KOKA
sudeshna.k@postnoon.com
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or the first time in India, a rare cataract operation was conducted on dogs in Hyderabad, in which the implantation of interocular lenses was replaced with another kind of lens to give dogs better vision. Such multi-specialty hospitals for animals are mushrooming in the City. But then on the other hand, despite developments in the veterinary hospital industry, there isn’t a sufficient supply of doctors. The main roadblock is the lack of veterinary science colleges in the City. Hyderabad has only one veterinary science college — The College of Veterinary Science, Rajendranagar. Many veterinary aspirants give up their dream just because the State does not have enough such colleges. One such student, Bhavna Madhu, says, “Since childhood, I’ve been crazy about animals. I always wanted to become a vet, but unfortunately, I did not get a seat in the college in Hyderabad. I had to give up my dream and choose another stream. Andhra Pradesh has only five veterinary science colleges. Hyderabad’s single veterinary science college has an intake of a mere 68 students per year. In an agrarian economy like India, the demand for veterinarians will always be high, but the supply does not meet the demand. “Not just in Andhra Pradesh but all over India, there are very few colleges in this field. Of late, the demand for animal husbandry is on the increase. Earlier, veterinary science was considered to be one stream, but today there are several variations such as poultry, dairy, fishery and so on,” said Dr Muralidhar, founder of Dr Dog Hospital. Recent reports show that animal husbandry is increasingly popular in the State, especially sheep rearing and dairy enter-
prises. “We don’t have enough colleges in our state. The employment opportunity is huge, but the lack of quality education is the main problem. These days, the private sector is growing phenomenally. This is creating great opportunities for veterinarians,” said Kishore, an intern at Dr Dog. The newer private animal husbandry establishments are demanding a doctor for every set-up but with just 340 doctors passing out every year from the State, there is a shortage. “Meat, eggs and milk form a
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College of Veterinary Science, (VCI Approved) n NT Rama Rao College of Veterinary Science n Acharya N G Ranga Agricultural University major part of our staple food. So it shows that the demand for our field is high. But unfortunately, there is not enough awareness. I do not see a lot of students coming forward to take this course.
If they show an interest, I am sure the government would also increase the number of seats or colleges. It is time that private players came forward and set up veterinary colleges,” said
Kishore N, a final-year veterinary science student. Animal husbandry is a profitable business, and hence, there are lucrative options for veterinarians. “In Krishna and Godavari districts, livestock business is on the increase. Unlike agriculture, where one gets either equivalent or a meagre profit, in livestock this is not the case. Here there is a larger profit, for example; a litter of milk is `56. The profitable nature of livestock proportionally increases our demand,” Satish Nagunari, a veterinary intern.
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BOOKS SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2012
SHORT READS Title: Where’d You Go, Bernadette Author: Maria Semple Publisher: Little, Brown and Company Bernadette Fox is not very fond of Seattle, despite her daughter Bee studying there. When Bee asks for a family trip to Antarctica as a rewar, Bernadette disappears. Bee then takes it upon herself to get her mother back home.
Title: The Kingmaker’s Daughter Author: Philippa Gregory Publisher: Touchstone Philipp’s latest novel is about the daughters of Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick, a man known as the “Kingmaker”. Set at the time of Edward IV, the tale follows Neville as he uses his daughters Anne and Isabel as pawns in his political games, and their becoming influential strategists themselves.
Title: Half Empty Author: David Rakoff Publisher: Doubleday In his last book Half Empty, released in 2010, Rakoff comments on any and everything, from mortality to New York to eating pork. Sharp, witty and humourous, Rakoff’s essays examine the myth of the can-do culture and assures us that dreams don’t come true, people can’t all be stars and everything is not going to be okay.
Title: Why Does The World Exist? Author: Tim Holt Publisher: Liveright Tim Holt’s book re-examines how and why the world came into being. Holt traces man’s endeavours to trace the origins of the universe. The author hints that the scientific vs religious view of the world’s existence might be too narrow, as he interviews a series of experts.
An eternity of love If you own a dog then read this book for a reason other than entertainment. Read it and realise the love, the sorrow, and the eventual enlightenment that your dog will bring to you. Andrew Josef
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Bruce Cameron is a master of wit, his 8 Simple Rules For Dating My Teenage Daughter rippled with hilarious angst and a tsunami of reflective poignancy. But with A Dog’s Purpose he has transcended all else. If you’re a dog-lover, hell, even if you just love animals in general, A Dog’s Purpose is a pillar of a book. It will make you laugh, and have you bawling like a baby, but above all it will make you love life and all its idiosyncrasies. The book follows the ‘lives’ of one dog as he strives through a number of canine incarnations to find a purpose to his life. Moving from the mongrel Toby, to the loveable Bailey, then to the supremely talented and heroic Ellie, and finally into Buddy, the book cavorts, mourns, elates and thrills. Told from a dog’s perspective the book offers a unique insight (for those who know nothing about canines) into the psyche of man’s best friend: Why they do what they do, what they think of us, and the most enlightening of all, what they really think of other animals. But above all else, this book
Subramania Bharati had always wanted that his poems be available to the public ‘as a matchbox’. Usha Rajagopalan attempts to fulfil his desire with this translation. Fleme Varkey fleme.v@postnoon.com
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owadays when books release, along with their English version, the author also releases translated versions of the book. While earlier translations were criticised for losing the essence of the
is about humans and their dogs: From young Ethan’s growing journey alongside his furry soulmate Bailey, to Jakob and Maya’s wildly different relationships with Ellie, the spectrum of human emotion is covered with, well, humanity and so much reality that one is left wondering whether Cameron, at some point in his myriad of lifecycles, was actually a dog. If you own a dog then read this book for a reason other than
entertainment. Read it because it’s important. Read it and realise the love, the sorrow, and the eventual enlightenment that your dog will bring to you. After I finished the book I sat down with my dogs and hugged them, not only because I love them, but because they play such an important role in my life. One day, like Toby/Bailey/Ellie, they will grow old and move on. I know this, even though I often push it
as far from my mind as possible. But until that day comes, I will cherish every moment, and thanks to books like A Dog’s Purpose, I will always be reminded of an animal’s unconditional love…something a human being could never muster. We just don’t have that purity. And it is this purity that makes this book such a wonderful exhibition of life. It is this purity that makes it a part of you, forever.
Notes from a poet story or poem, today the scene is different, it’s the translations that work more. Usha Rajagopalan fulfilled her childhood dream by translating Subramania Bharati’s Tamil poems into English. She first learnt Tamil and then applied for a fellowship to be able to do more with the language and his poems. The result is the book in front of us. This special bilingual edition of Subramania Bharati’s poems contain the fiercely patriotic philosophy of the poet. Bharati is held in high esteem — as the one who heralded the renaissance in Tamil Literature. It is the inherent music in his poetry that
Name Selected Poems Author Subramania Bharati Translated by Usha Rajagopalan Pages 176 Publisher Hachette India draws the reader to it. Through his powerful poetry he tried to stir in his fellow Indians the feelings of patriotism and bravado. Poems titled Awake, Mother India, Bharat our country, Our country and Salutations to the
Name A Dog’s Purpose Author W Bruce Cameron Pages 319 Publisher Pan
Motherland bring out the poet’s patriotic sentimentalities. He has even written verses dedicated to the elements—rain, wind, fire, sun and the earth. Usha has neatly categorised and given the reader a glimpse of the creative genius of the poet. The poet’s wife Chellamma is also a major presence in his work. Most of his poems are dedicated to his wife whom he married at the age of 14. She was seven at that time. She was his muse through 24 years of their married life and some of his most passionate poetry was written with her in mind. Here in the book you can see at least five poems that show his romantic side. The beautiful evocative prose by Bharati is bound to draw the readers.
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BOOKS SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2012
The tale of two heroes Jinnah vs Gandhi lends refreshing insights on the two men who shaped the future of two nations — India and Pakistan. PADMINI C
padmini.c@postnoon.com
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imagine that almost every kid growing up in India has read so much of the Indian National Movement that by the time he is an adult, he will be happy never to touch a book on the subject ever again. So it was with great reluctance that I started on Roderick Matthews’ Jinnah vs Gandhi. It is often said that history is the version of past events that people have decided to agree upon. Truer words were perhaps never spoken. We all know the story as we studied it. Gandhi, the ‘Mahatma’, the
THE SHINING, STEPHEN KING This tale of a troubled man hired to care of a remote mountain resort over the winter, his loyal wife, and their uniquely gifted son slowly but steadily unfolds as secrets from the Overlook Hotel's past are revealed, and the hotel itself attempts to claim the very souls of the Torrence family. The Shining stands as a cultural icon of modern horror, a searing study of a family torn apart, and a nightmarish glimpse into the dark recesses of human weakness and dementia.
I FEEL BAD ABOUT NORA EPHRON
It delivers on its promise of chronicling the incredible similarities and differences between the two great leaders. father of the nation, led us to victory and freedom. Jinnah, of course was the villain, the main instigator of all evil leading to the partition saga. But this is the version that’s too naive, too simplistic, too unrealistic to believe as an adult. It’s perhaps because of this over familiarity why reading an impartial, third party sketch of the two men that we think we know much too well, is important. Jinnah vs Gandhi delivers on its promise of chronicling the incredible similarities and differences between the two great leaders. The contrasts are rather easy to bring out. If Gandhi was about the personal, for Jinnah, it was the political. If one was about the means, the other was about the ends. If
MUST READS
Gandhi’s stand was “no Swaraj, no progress”, Jinnah’s line was to “reform now, British out later.” But as Matthews points out, it’d be easy to forget that despite the differences in their methods, ideology and aims, both men had more in common than it would seem. For instance, Gandhi and Jinnah came from Gujarati merchant class families, both were educated in London, both barristers, both members of Congress (only to quit later due to ideological differences) and both, ultimately, nationalists. Interestingly, Matthews doesn’t stop at that. He maintains that modern India (procollective leadership, indigenous culture, tolerance, positive nationalism) and Pakistan (sin-
Name Jinnah vs Gandhi Author Roderick Matthews Pages 301 Publisher Hachette India
gle-minded, paranoid, authoritarian and inclined to intolerance) are reflections of the strengths and weaknesss of their fathers. “India was fortunate to inherit the best of Gandhi, Pakistan had to make to do with the worst of Jinnah,” he writes. While it’s very unlikely there’s merit to the argument, it’s nevertheless an interesting stand. Jinnah vs Gandhi is neatly divided into three parts and smaller chapters making it easy to digest. But like most history books, it suffers from long, endless, and repetitive narrative that can be a challenge to successfully navigate without succumbing to snores. All in all, it’s worth a glance, especially if they rate among your heroes.
MY NECK ,
With her disarming, intimate, completely accessible voice, and dry sense of humour, Nora Ephron shares with us her ups and downs in I Feel Bad About My Neck, a candid, hilarious look at women who are getting older and dealing with the tribulations of maintenance, menopause, empty nests, and life itself. Utterly courageous, funny, and unexpectedly moving in its truth telling it is an irresistible treat of a book, full of truths, laugh out loud moments that will appeal to readers of all ages.
THE SECRET DIARY OF ADRIAN MOLE, SUE TOWNSEND In his secret diary, British teen Adrian Mole excruciatingly details every morsel of his turbulent adolescence. Mixed in with daily reports about the zit sprouting on his chin are heartrending passages about his parents' chaotic marriage. Adrian sees all, and he has something to say about everything. It is a riot, and—although written more than 15 years ago— there is something deliciously timeless about Adrian's angst.
WHAT’S SELLING Oxford bookstore’s best in fiction
Walden’s best in non-fiction
New York Times' best in fiction
n Fifty Shades of Grey by EL James
n Jugaad Innovation by Navi Radjou & Others
n Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
n The Taliban Cricket Club by Timeri N Murari n Em & The Big Hoom by Amitav Ghosh
n Saina Nehwal by Sudhir T S n Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson
n The Edge of Desire by Sunita Sinha Tuhin
n Poor Little Rich Slum by Rashmi Bansal
n Ink Dries by Anand Vishwanandha
n The 3rd Alternative by Stephen Covey
n Odd Apocalypse by Dean Koontz n Where we belong by Emily Giffin n Friends Forever by Danielle Steel n Black List by Brad Thor
New York Times' best in non- fiction n Wild by Cheryl Strayed n Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand n Killing Lincoln by Bill O'Reilly and Martin Dugard n Double Cross by Ben Macintyre n The Amateur by Edward Klein
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WOMEN SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2012
APPS OF THE WEEK Nike Training App: This is a fitness app that includes cardio, core, strength, balance, and flexibility exercises. It allows you to go online to view workout videos.
textPlus: This free app gives you the power of unlimited one-to-one or group messaging to any iPhone, touch or iPad anywhere in the world, especially useful when you’re travelling.
Snapp: Snapp is a free app that allows you to enter a contact’s email address on the spot and will send them a personalised follow-up email immediately.
Embellishing sartorial visions Internationally sought after for her fine workmanship and intricate embroideries, Chandni Jha, director of Divinia Exports, believes God is in the details.
SUNORY DUTT
feedback@postnoon.com
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hen Chandni started her Mumbai-based export house specialising in the manufacture of high-end and contemporary embroidered garments for design labels across the world eight years ago, “with very little capital and no real international contacts, it took a lot of divine guidance, and a lot more divine intervention,” she reminisces on being asked about the origin of her company’s name (Divinia is ancient Greek for ‘Divine’). “I started with only `30,000 as capital. I trolled the Internet looking for phone numbers of designers and design houses. Out of maybe a 100 cold calls, 15 people agreed to take a look at my work, 7- 8 responded asking to see more, at least 3-4 out of these seven either didn’t return the embroidery swatches I sent them or else returned them with a ‘thanks but no thanks’ and 2-3 agreed to try me out. From these 2-3, I built my business to what it is today”, Chandni recalls. She can now count among her clients appreciable names of the fashion world like YSL,
Moschino, Collette Dinnigan, Alice Temperley, Jenny Packham, Alice + Olivia, Givenchy and La’orange among others. Her embroideries have graced the outfits of celebrities the likes of Carrie Underwood, Aishwarya Rai, Kerry Washington, Cate Blanchett and Kylie Minogue. Formally trained in fashion design from SNDT University, Chandni “figured out that my interests and strengths lay in organisation rather than design. And manufacturing is
THE CV
Embroidery as a niche has always interested me as opposed to putting together a whole garment.
First job: I modelled when I was 16 and that’s where I made my first pay cheque.
just that — a whole lot of organisation. Doing what I do, I get the best of both worlds. I get to design embroideries and I can use my organisational skills to ensure my clients receive their designs manufactured to their satisfaction”. But her chosen field comes with its own set of challenges. Chandni shares, “I have to think on my feet more often than is comfortable. In the course of eight years, I have dealt with my factory catching fire due to a short-circuit, theft in the office and a worker forging my signature and withdrawing `65,000 from my bank account. You just have to keep your head down and keep going. Get your basics right, know why you’re doing what you’re doing, and know that the tough times are not permanent. At least, that’s what works for me. And never compromise on the most important aspect of the business — quality, quality, quality”.
Motto: It’s a Japanese proverb — nana korobiyaoki — meaning ‘fall down seven times, get up eight times’. I have it tattooed on my wrist.
Last book read: I read an average of three-four books a week. The ones I have enjoyed most in the recent times have been The Art of Fielding by Chad Harbach, What I Talk About When I Talk About Running by Haruki Murakami and Yes, Chef by Marcus Samuelsson.
Inspiration: Women like Anita Roddick, Bobbi Brown, Ali Hewson and IndraNooyi who have a strong work ethic. And people who work hard and create a better environment around them for it.
What weddings do to me All About Eve
FLEME VARKEY
M
arriages are always a busy affair. They may also be the most dangerous of affairs too. There is a high chance you can end up offending some person or other. Relatives you never have seen in a gazillion years turn up and ask to recognised. It’s like a constant guessing game, each trying to identify who is who and figuring out whose memory is greater. This is also the time to be wary of the bespectacled aunties whose powers of observation can either rip your selfesteem to bits or raise it to the tops. One look and they can tell you how much weight you have put on, how much you have lost, how many shades darker or fairer you have become, even the hair comes under scrutiny... and the list continues. I am sure these are the primary observations to begin with. My elder sister is about to be married in another two weeks. As much as I am looking forward to this happy occasion, I am already dreading it. Ever since the wedding was finalised, comments and suggestions started pouring in. “Oh now that your sister is getting married, you are next in line” and then that tittering laugh while I look at my toes trying to feign embarrassment. It’s as if I am in line for some throne or something. Another one was, “So have you decided what to wear for the wedding, suppose some parent likes you for their son?” ‘Yes, woman I am going to be dressed in a tutu for all I care’. It’s my sister’s big day, I know looking good is a pre-requisite but it in no way is my day to dress up for prospective grooms. I have little doubt it will change. Elders will always be have an opinion about everything. It’s going to take me a lot of will-power to combat the questions and comments that I will soon face but then who cares when I am the sister of the bride.
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SPOTLIGHT SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2012 DEEPAK DESHPANDE
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DEEPAK DESHPANDE
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Starry, starry day Constellation 2012, an intercollegiate science fest at St Francis College, was a grand event, with students participating in several events.
Fashionable Fridays Fashion Mantras, an exhibition by Akriti, was inaugurated by Shilpa Reddy and Reet Sahu at Taj Krishna, with Bina Mehta as the guest of honour.
1 Neha
5 Monika
2 Bela 3 Supriya, Nidhi,
6 Sushma 7 Harshi
Shalini Vaishnavi 4 Sheetal
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10 Nishu 11 Pragathi
8 Aakansha
12 Reet Sahu 13 Madhumita
9 Sameera
14 Shilpa Reddy
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DEEPAK DESHPANDE
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Cutting the ribbon Asaduddin Owaisi was the guest of honour at the launch of Cakerie House near Krishna Nagar.
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RELATIONSHIPS SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2012
M
ANGER MAKES THE HEART GROW FONDER
I AM ALL EARS
y parents have recently shifted to our native village leaving me here with my uncle. My uncle and his family is very loving and do take care of me but my cousin has been showing a lot of interest in me. She is just in college while I am a 26-year-old man. How do I tell her to back off?
Dear worried kid, If it had been any other scenario I would have said you were a lucky man that you have women falling for you. However, if this is the case, you should make clear to her that you have only brotherly feelings towards her and express them also in front of her parents so that she gets the message. You can also look for a place of your own in case you want to avoid any ugly scenes or better still introduce her to your girlfriend.
I
t is not always best to forgive and forget in marriage, according to a new research. Sometimes expressing anger might be necessary to resolve a relationship problem. The short-term discomfort of an angry but honest conversation might benefit the health of the relationship in the long-term. The research is part of a larger effort to better understand the contexts in which some relationships succeed and others fail, and also to understand how close relationships affect our health.
Oh go get a room! When it comes to public displays of affection, online or otherwise, a little goes a long way. When does it become a nuisance to the public? Where should couples draw the line? We find out. AMY ROSE THOMAS
amyrose.t@postnoon.com
Y
ou know your friend is in a relationship when you get updates on Facebook about the first meeting, first date and so on. These updates are followed by a splash of photos describing each of the meets complete with all the controversial details. While the entire world willing or unwilling witnesses their attempts at keeping the relationship alive on social networking sites, it is a sorry state of affairs when the rela-
tionship hits a roadblock. Taking off pictures, deleting updates and removing tags ensue to ensure that all remnants of the ex are removed completely and their account is swiped clean of him\her. The case is no different when the couple shows their love for each other in the public. While there are few for whom it is a delight to behold a blossoming relationship in front of them and view it as a celebration of love, there are many who think otherwise. A student, Meenakshi Sinha, for one, says, “I understand they are in love but that doesn’t mean they need to blow their own trumpet online.” While Shalini Singh is of the opinion that a couple should keep in mind that they are
WHILE THERE ARE FEW FOR WHOM IT IS A DELIGHT TO BEHOLD A BLOSSOMING RELATIONSHIP IN FRONT OF THEM, THERE ARE MANY WHO THINK OTHERWISE around people and make an effort not make others uncomfortable. “There are many ways to show love without making others around you uncomfortable. There is no harm in holding hands or a small peck on your partner’s cheeks. It becomes a nuisance for the public when the couple decides to go beyond this.
There are couples we find in movie theatres getting too comfortable oblivious of the families sitting beside them. I feel that this is not acceptable as there may be children in the group and they can pose questions to elders about this behaviour. So, instead of making everyone around you uncomfortable, it is best that they do what they have to do within the four walls of a room without anyone in their vicinity to judge them,” she says. On the other hand, there are many others who feel they need not behave according to the confines of societal protocol. Sunny M is a student who belongs to this group. He says, “There are many who take a harsh stand against PDA. I think it is done with love and nothing
to be embarrassed about. It is a natural phenomenon and this kind of reaction to PDA exists only in our country. In the West, no one stares when they see a couple on the streets. It is treated quite normally. I think people have a staring problem in India and they invariably try to impose their views on you. There are many cultural, traditional and religious barriers and it is impossible to satisfy everyone surrounding you. There is nothing wrong in showing love.” While to some extent you can close yourself off from prying eyes and get comfortable with your partner, it’s also important to be cautious not to cross that line when around children and family. In such cases, it is best that you get a room.
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CINEMA SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2012
All eyes on Sudigaadu
A
llari Naresh, Monal Gajjar starrer Sudigaadu might very well turn out to be the black horse at the box office. Soon after the film’s first look was unveiled, the distribution rights of the film were sold in all areas for a record price for an Allari Naresh’s film. “I’d like to thank Rajamouli,Ravi Teja, Puri
Jagannadh and several other members in the industry who have been extremely supportive to our film. We have spoofed the clichés in Telugu films and we were careful to not take a dig at either film industry or make a reference to the personal lives of celebrities. The film’s caption – ‘Oke Ticket Pai 100 cinemalu’ is justified in the film and people can
easily relate to it since we have spoofed films mostly made after 2,000,” Bheemineni Srinivasa Rao said. The film, which is a remake of Tamil Padam, has been given a U/A certificate and it is all set to hit the screens on August 24.
Rebel’s first look launched
T
he first look of Prabhas, Tamannaah and Deeksha Seth starrer Rebel was launched recently in Hyderabad. Raghava Lawrence is directing the film and it is being jointly produced by J Bhagawan and J Pulla Rao. Addressing the media, Lawrence said, “I would like to thank Prabhas for his unflinching faith in me. There were several changes in the cast and crew after we started shooting the film, but he continued to believe in me. Moreover than anyone, I wanted to surprise Prabhas by showcasing him in a new light and going by the
response I have got from the teaser, I have achieved my objective.” Lawrence and Deeksha Seth, who were present at the launch of the film’s teaser, were all praises for Prabhas and Lawrence. “It’s been an incredible experience working with Prabhas and Lawrence. I got a good name as an actress in 100% Love and I am confident that I’ll get similar response for my dances in this film,” Tamannaah said. Krishnam Raju has played an important role in this action entertainer. Lawrence has also composed the music of this film. Rebel is expected to hit the screens by mid September.
Julayi is Allu Arjun’s biggest hit, so far
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ulayi is on track to become the biggest hit in Allu Arjun’s career. After the phenomenal opening which the film took after its worldwide release on August 9, the film has managed to collect a share of `24 crore in its first week. Incidentally, this number doesn’t include the collections
from the film’s Malayalam version which released yesterday. In Nizam alone, the film collected a share of `7.21 crore and in Karnataka, the film did extremely well in the first week and it collected `2.89 crores. “#Julayi 1st week all-India GROSS : 38cr / NETT 32cr / SHARE 24cr. 3rd or 4th highest opening in most territories in
AP. USA : $600,000, overseas will be approx $1mn+.Worldwide gross : 43cr. No same day release in Malayalam. Else figs wud've been higher(sic),” Allu Sirish posted on Twitter. Trivikram Srinivas has directed the film and N Radhakrishna has produced it. Devi Sri Prasad has composed the music.
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CINEMA SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2012
Bhansali's 'Ram Leela' goes on floor in September
I’m lucky Akshay is working with me: Sonakshi
A
fter starring together in Rowdy Rathore, Sonakshi Sinha is set to be seen opposite Akshay Kumar again in Joker. The actress says she is lucky that the Bollywood superstar is working with a newcomer like her. The 25-year-old actress is all set to make a hattrick with Akshay with the shooting of Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai 2 all set to kick-start this month. ”I consider myself lucky that a superstar like Akshay has shown good interest in working with a newcomer like me. He showed confidence in me when I was just one film old (Dabangg). He was convinced that I was the right choice for Joker and Rowdy Rathore. PTI
Versatility, a must for singer, says Javed Ali
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singer should be able to sing all kind of songs and be able to adapt to new trends, says Javed Ali who proved his versatility by crooning hit numbers like Jash-nebahara, Tinku jiya and Ishaqzaade title track. “People say that today’s music is not good, but that’s not right. Good music and good songs are being created. But sometimes we need to move with the trend,” Javed said and added that the one should not shy away from singing an item song if its in trend. “It (the trend) is the demand of producers and directors. Music directors have to make it and singers record such songs. We can’t say no because it is very important for a singer to be versatile. I am trying to do the same with IANS my songs,” he added.
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ilmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Ram Leela is set to go on floors next month, says actor Abhimanyu Singh, but he refused to confirm his place in the cast of the movie. “I would not be able to talk about it right now. It is too early to speak about it. All I can say is the film will go on floors next month. I can’t tell you anything more than that,” Abhimanyu said. Bhansali returns to direction two years after wielding the megaphone for Guzaarish. Ram Leela is the desi adaptation of Romeo and Juliet. However, no official announcement has been made on the cast of the film. IANS
Salman’s fans have given him the best Eid: Sohail
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ilmmaker-actor Sohail Khan is happy at the stupendous opening of Ek Tha Tiger and says it’s the best Eid Salman Khan’s fans could give him. “It’s the happiest feeling anyone can have. I have seen the film, it’s a superb film. I think it’s the best Eid that Salman bhai’s fans could give him,” Sohail said at a special screening of the film. “This film caters to youngest to the oldest. This is one film the whole family can go and watch together,” he added. According to reports, Ek Tha Tiger did a whopping business of `32.95 crore in India alone on the opening day, breaking the record set by Agneepath that collected `25 crore on the first day. Sohail said the film’s success is a proof that Salman is a IANS true tiger.
CINEMA SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2012
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CINEMA SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2012
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ENTERTAINMENT SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2012
Avengers 2 out in 2015 A vengers, assemble…in three years! Walt Disney Studios announced on Thursday that the untitled sequel to The Avengers, the third-highest grossing movie of all time, will arrive in theaters on Friday, May 1, 2015. As the studio announced last week, Joss Whedon will return to write and direct the project as part of an exclusive three-year film and television deal with Marvel. The announcement rounds out the next five films in Marvel’s “Phase Two” slate: Iron Man 3 is set for May 3, 2013; Thor: The Dark World for November 8, 2013; Captain America: The Winter Soldier for April 4, 2014; and Guardians of the Galaxy for August 1, 2014.
Goodman to enter Hangover series J
ohn Goodman is getting into The Hangover business. The veteran actor, who seems to be experiencing something of a career resurgence with roles in such upcoming awards-season fare as Clint Eastwood’s Trouble with the Curve and Ben Affleck’s Argo, is now in talks for a small part in the third entry of the blockbuster comedy franchise. The character is described as an antagonist “in the vein” of Paul Giamatti’s character in the second film, a role which director Todd Phillips previously eyed both Sean Penn and Robert Downey Jr. for, according to exclusive-getter Variety. Goodman will co-star opposite
returning cast members Bradley Cooper, Zach Galifianakis and Ed Helms in the upcoming threequel, which is scheduled to begin production next month for a May 24, 2013 release.
Rihanna sorry for Chris
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hris Brown brutally assaulted Rihanna in 2009, but the Barbadian beauty still felt sympathy towards her abuser. “It was a weird, confusing space to be in, because as angry as I was, as angry and hurt and betrayed, I just felt like he made that mistake because he needed help,” Rihanna told Oprah Winfrey on OWN’s Next
Chapter. “And like who’s gonna help him? Nobody’s gonna say he needs help.” “Everybody’s gonna say he’s a monster without looking at the source,” Rihanna said. “And I was more concerned about him.” Rihanna tearfully told Oprah she “lost my best friend” when Brown attacked her, adding that “everything I knew switched in a night.” “And I couldn’t control
that, so I had to deal with that, and that’s not easy for me to understand or interpret and it’s not easy to interpret on camera, not with the world watching. So it was hard for me to even pay attention to my mind and figuring things out because now it became a circus and I felt protective,” she said. “I felt like the only person they hate right now is him.”
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CHAI TIME SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2012
THOUGHT OF THE DAY
SOLUTION ON PAGE 32
SUDOKU
KAKURO
How to play kakuro
SCRIBBLING PAD
Kakuro is a popular game similar to sudoku in some ways. But is also suitably different. The key question: ‘How do you play kakuro?’, well here are the rules of kakuro. The answer: The kakuro grid, unlike in sudoku, can be of any size. It has rows and columns, and dark cells like in a crossword. And, just like in a crossword, some of the dark cells will contain numbers. Some cells will contain two numbers. However, in a crossword the numbers reference clues. In a kakuro, the numbers are all you get! They denote the total of the digits in the row or column referenced by the number. Within each collection of cells — called a run — any of the numbers 1 to 9 may be used but, like sudoku, each number may only be used once. Let’s have an example to explain this concept more clearly: In the image above, which shows a section of a kakuro puzzle, you will see the numbers ‘26’ and ‘14’ in the top row. Look at the 14. This means that the total of the three cells underneath must sum to 14. Therefore 9, 4, 1 could be the answer, or perhaps 7, 4, 3 and so on... So, how do you work out the actual combination? Well, this is done through elimination and cross-referencing. For instance, as you work out the answers for other kakuro clues, this will naturally limit the valid combinations, and hence the answer for this particular run. Note the second cell in row two — it contains two numbers, 30 and 11. The 30 refers to the vertical run underneath the number 30 and the 11 refers to the two cells to the right, horizontally, of the number 11.
The last time anybody made a list of the top hundred character attributes of New Yorkers, common sense snuck in at number 79. – Douglas Adams
QUICK CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Striking success 6 It put a man on the moon 10 Bad cut 14 Tombstone’s place 15 Nails it, say 16 Division problem word 17 Left the straight and narrow 19 Prez’s second-incommand 20 In short supply 21 Right-angled annex 22 Roof’s overhang 23 ___ de toilette (perfume) 25 Candy-coated 27 It could be fallow or verdant 32 Pas’ spouses 33 Realtor’s calculation 34 Last day of Caesar’s term 36 Ermine by another name 40 Be offended by 41 Little litter members 43 ‘... ___ to leap tall buildings’ 44 Cafeteria patron 46 Case for needles and pins 47 Bookbinding material 48 Bering Sea diving bird 50 Ore refiners 52 Woolen fabric 56 Poker tour player 57 Dismounted, as a horse 58 Period for historians 60 Unrepairable 65 Common way to charge 66 How something heavy drops 68 ‘___ Cowgirls Get the Blues’ 69 Morally wicked 70 Celebrity bovine 71 Transmit 72 Forbid 73 Descends a hill, perhaps
DOWN 1 Baker’s dozen? 2 Jockey’s tool 3 Turner in flicks 4 Assert confidently 5 Plant with prickly leaves 6 Turner of history books 7 Part of the back 40 8 Marine frolickers 9 Political shelter 10 Jump out and shout ‘Boo!’ 11 ‘That was ___ death experience!’ 12 A Wynn in Vegas 13 Was optimistic 18 Sailor’s lungful 24 Excessive, as influence 26 You may step on it in a rush 27 Fortune partner 28 Highlight at La Scala 29 Price of quarters 30 Was defiant, in a way
31 Body shop corrections cloth 35 Go on the campaign 61 ‘___ put hair on your trail chest!’ 37 It gives the orchestra 62 It may really smell an A 63 Oklahoma town 38 Apple spray of old 64 ‘Disco Duck’ 39 Till compartment DJ Rick 42 Bogart film 67 ‘Tarzan’ star Ron ‘High ___’ 45 Boring thing to PREVIOUS PUZZLE ANSWER be stuck in 49 ___ over (capsised) 51 Jerks 52 Silent hellos and goodbyes 53 ‘Drab’ army colour 54 Gone heavenward 55 ‘Home, James’ 59 Cut from the same
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CHAI TIME SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2012
Aries
Gemini
Taurus
Six of Swords
The World
The Fool
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ork – Streamline your work processes so that you can produce better quality work. By thinking of new ways to do the same old thing will take up time. Romance – A travel plan to reignite the passion between you and your partner is a good idea. Choose a location which you both will find things to discover. Health – A change may be needed in your diet or exercise to make the most of your current situation. Continue to meditate and release mental stress. Money – Money matters need attention. Pool all your resources together and think of ways to maximise what you have. Tarot message – This is not the time to be aggressive. Get practical and do the best under present circumstances.
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ork – A job offer is possible. Even if you aren’t looking for a job, consider the offer and meet people as a way to collect good experiences. Romance – If a relationship is not working out, don’t push it. It will die a natural death if it has to. There are many fish in the sea. Health – Get a second opinion to treat a complex medical issue if you aren’t satisfied with what one doctor says. Consider natural healing methods, too. Money – A freelance gig or extra work for additional income is a good idea. Don’t, however, let it burden you so much that you don’t have time to enjoy that money. Tarot message – Consider all your options before deciding.
ork – Good time to look at new avenues and opportunities. This is an ocean with a world of new chances. Look at the right places. Romance – An overseas trip will get you in touch with interesting members of the opposite sex. Enjoy the interactions and the new ideas. Health – Your mind needs relaxation. Take a break and get out of the city for a few days. Leave your phone behind if that would help. Money – There are ways to keep track of your expenses only if you have the will to cut down and save for tomorrow. Get pen and paper and take note. Tarot message – Be open to new ideas and exploration. There are many different sides to a story.
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Cancer Queen of Cups
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ork – If it was a case of ‘who’ll blink first’ for a long time with a colleague, be assured that it is about to end. Either you or your coworker will move jobs. Romance – God is in the details but also don’t lose sight of the big picture while making crucial decisions. Health – Take care of your mental health. Meditation and yoga help to a large extent. You may also want to consider laughter therapy. Money – If you can avoid it, additional expenditure is best deferred to a time when you’re absolutely certain you can afford it. Tarot message – Weigh the pros and cons carefully before jumping into an unfamiliar situation. Be sure of what you’re getting into.
Leo The Chariot
The Star
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ork – Travel related to work is on the cards. This will be an important journey where you learn new things and experiment with new ideas. Romance – Distance makes the heart grow fonder. Those committed benefit from taking time out. Singles enjoy their space and independence. Health – All is well and there is nothing to worry about on the health front. Continue to eat right and pay attention to your weight. Money – Your savings come to good use now. You may be considering investing in a house. Do the background check thoroughly before going ahead. Tarot message – Travel to distant lands opens up the mind to new possibilities. Let your mind wander for a bit.
SUMAA TEKUR tarotreadhyd@gmail.com
Libra Seven of Pentacles
Three of Cups
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ork – You’re in the right flow with ideas and execution. Keep it up by maintaining a good work-life balance. Romance – If you and your partner are thinking of deepening the commitment or starting a family, this is the right time. Health – You’re feeling positive and good. This shows on your health. Nothing to worry about. Just maintain your diet and exercise. Money – There is no problem here. There is enough for your every need. Make sure you have invested in the right places and are saving enough for a rainy day. Tarot message – When things go smooth, it gives you a breather. You might want to ruminate on the larger issues of life.
ork – If it was a case of ‘who’ll blink first’ for a long time with a colleague, be assured that it is about to end. Either you or your coworker will move jobs. Romance – God is in the details but also don’t lose sight of the big picture while making crucial decisions. Health – Take care of your mental health. Meditation and yoga help to a large extent. You may also want to consider laughter therapy. Money – If you can avoid it, additional expenditure is best deferred to a time when you’re absolutely certain you can afford it. Tarot message – Weigh the pros and cons carefully before jumping into an unfamiliar situation. Be sure of what you’re getting into.
Sagittarius
Scorpio
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The Sun
W
ork –A job offer is likely to come your way. But your current bosses are reluctant to let you go. Consider all your options for the long term. Romance – You’re not short of suitors. If one relationship is not working out, don’t be afraid to get out of your comfort zone and try dating someone else. Health – There are many treatment options available and some options work for some people based on body needs and faith. Money – You may not be making optimum use of your investment needs. You need some good advice from the tax man to maximise your money inflow. Tarot message – When one door closes another opens. You need to have faith and be patient.
Capricorn
ork – If you hate your job, or more specifically your boss, things will begin to look up. Either your boss leaves or you get another job. Romance – The committed will find deeper meaning in their partnership. Singles will change their expectations of love and marriage. Health – You discover a new treatment or an alternative solution to a chronic medical problem. Money – If money has been tight, don’t worry. You’ll find a new source of additional income that will ease the burden on your EMIs. Tarot message – There’s a silver lining to the cloud that has been threatening to take away your peace of mind. Don’t worry.
Date 19-8-2012
Aquarius
Eight of Swords
Strength
W
ork – You’re in a strong position to request a raise or a promotion. Your seniors at work cannot refuse you considering the hard work you’ve put in. Romance – You meet someone through common friends and the chemistry is instant and intense. You hit it off well. Health – Your fears and concerns were unfounded. Medical tests show that you’re in good health and all you need is good company and laughter. Money – If some money was owed to you for a long time, they get paid out and all the dues are cleared. You’re in a comfortable place, financially. Tarot message – Immense willpower and determination take you places and you overcome all odds to come out stronger.
ork – You will encounter avenues to promote yourself as the frontrunner for an important project. Nothing wrong in showcasing your talent. Romance – Celebrate important days like anniversaries and birthdays. These are important to keep the passion alive. Health – Be kind to your body and do not push it more than it can handle with excessive eating or drinking. Money – Expenses increase and you may have to cut down on your regular entertainment needs. Be creative and look for alternates. Tarot message – It’s an uphill task with this time testing your limits and making you do things you’re not used to. But you will come out on top without a doubt.
Virgo
W
Pisces Six of Pentacles
W
ork – Investigate further into a problem if you’re not convinced of the answers your colleagues give you. Make sure for yourself that all is well. Romance – Some confrontation is required with your partner to address an issue that has been bothering you both for a while. Talk it out. Health – Fruit juices, fresh fruits and a light diet to detox your body is a good idea. Some light exercises also will take the fatigue away. Money – Big ticket purchases like a car or house are in the offing. These are to be made carefully, after accounting for all expenses and making sure you can afford them. Tarot message – Be proactive in your interactions and put your best foot forward.
Vol: 2, No 32 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 040-40672222, Fax: 040-40672211
28
THE SATURDAY QUIZ SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2012
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE
STORIES OF MERIT
of his campaign for the US presidency? 7.Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg was dubbed Baron zu Googleberg after being unmasked as a PhD plagiarist and forced to resign. What was his job? 8. Scientists at Cern also believe they have caught
glimpse of the Higgs boson particle. If it does exist, what will it help to explain? 9.What was unusual about the awarding of the Nobel prize for medicine to Ralph Steinman? 10.What “hobby” did Swedish police arrest Richard Handl for doing in his kitchen?
Answers
97. What was he buried with? 4.Which country came into being on July 9, 2011? 5.What is the name of the iPad “newspaper” launched to much fanfare by Rupert Murdoch? 6. Which film did Herman Cain say he was quoting from when he announced the end
1. Charlie Sheen 2. US Navy Seals were in Osama bin Laden’s compound 3. Doritos 4. South Sudan 5. The Daily 6. Pokémon: The Movie 2000 7. German defence minister 8. The origin of mass 9. He was dead 10. Atom Splitting
1.“Your face will melt off and your children will weep over your exploded body.” Who said? 2.Helicopter hovering above Abbottabad at 1 am (is a rare event). What was happening there? 3.Arch West, inventor of the Dorito tortilla chip, died aged
GUESS WHAT
DO YOU KNOW YOUR AUTHORS?
WHO PERFORMED THESE ITEM NUMBERS?
IDENTIFY THESE UNIQUE OLYMPIC HEROES?
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Shiela ki jawani
1
This hero’s weightlifting physique developed in the most unlikely place—a Japanese internment camp. During World War II, his family were moved to a detention centre in the California desert. He started lifting weights to pass the time. He set seven Olympic records and 26 world records.
Halkat Jawani
Kajraa re
Choli Ke Peeche
2 3
This Cuban boxer knocked down his first opponent in just 30 seconds and cakewalked his way to the gold in 1972.
Desi Girl
This Canadian sailor opted to save lives of two Singaporean sailors competing in a different event by over staying in the race. He was given a special award for sportsmanship.
Kaafirana
Anarkali Disco Chali
1. Tamio Konon 2.Teofilo Stevenson 3. Lawrence Lemieux
Answers
Mohabbat Hai Mirchi
KNOW YOUR COUNTRY
Mala Jau De
1
President Pratibha Patil on April 18, 2012 released a commemorative postage stamp to mark the birth centenary of which former President?
Dard e Disco
The Pakistan government on 28 June 2012, released Indian prisoner Surjeet Singh. Who is the other Indian citizen who has been languishing in Pakistani prison and was denied liberty by them?
with Santosh Ghule A thing that women love and another that that things loves is here. Find them.?
WHO AM I? I am a celebrated IndianAmerican journalist who was suspended from Time magazine and CNN for plagiarising a paragraph from the New Yorker for his weekly column GPS.
Answer : Fareed Zakaria
5
PICTURE PUZZLE 29
Answer for 28:
4
Name the person who was appointed the Director of the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) on July 2, 2012.
At the top-right..
Name the Italian tourist who was released by the Maoists in Orissa on April 12, 2012 ?
Answers: 1. JK Rowling 2. Salman Rushdie 3. Arundhati Roy 4. Shobhaa Dé
3
Answer:
Which ministry in its meeting on April 17, 2012, decided to set up three new committees to accelerate procurements and border infrastructure projects?
1. Katrina Kaif 2. Kareena Kapoor 3. Aishwarya Rai 4. Madhuri Dixit 5. Priyanka Chopra 6. Chitrangada Singh 7. Malaika Arora Khan 8. Rakhi Sawant 9. Vidya Balan 10. Sharukh Khan
2
1. R. Venkataraman 2. Defence Ministry 3.Bosusco Paolo 4. Anup Sankar Bhattacharya . Japan 5. Sarabjeet Singh
Answers
29
SPORTS SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2012
Meet for transgenders
F
Wim focusing on defence
or the first time in the country, a sports meet for transgenders is being organised here in Chhattisgarh on September 8 and 9. Around 150 transgenders are likely to take part in the 1st All India Third Gender Sports Meet, being organised by Right Turn Welfare Society along with Chhattisgarh Mitwa Sankalp Samiti and Raipur District Sports and Youth Welfare Department.
I
ndian football coach Wim Koevermans is focused on strengthening the team's defence ahead of the upcoming Nehru Cup, according to defender Syed Rahim Nabi. Speaking on the sidelines of the day's practice, Nabi said: "Wim has been insisting on building up from defence. I have been with the national camp for long but some of the tips have been an education for me."
Cadets denied participation
D
ays after India won two medals in wrestling at the Olympics, the country's next batch of promising grapplers were robbed of an opportunity to compete in the World Cadet Championship in Baku, after being denied visa. The event is scheduled from August 21 to 27, but the wrestlers and coaches are to report two days before the start of the tournament.
Pink and blue for revival With the present Indian hockey team giving its worst performance in the Olympics, Punjab’s Deputy Chief Minister wants a colourful revival for the national game — in shades of pink and blue to be precise Jaideep Sarin
CHANDIGARH: With the present Indian hockey team giving its worst performance in the London Olympics, Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal wants a colourful revival for the national game — in shades of pink and blue to be precise, a' la London. When India was a formidable hockey playing nation at the international level, the dusty grounds of Sansarpur, a village on the outskirts of Jalandhar, used to be the nursery of champion players. Now Badal plans to resurrect the game in the state by duplicating the colours of the Astroturf in London. Badal, who is also Punjab Sports Minister and was in London last week for the Olympic Games, has drawn up a Rs418-crore plan to strengthen the sports infrastructure in the state.
Accompanied on the trip by Parminder Singh Dhindsa, the Finance Minister of fundstarved and debt-ridden Punjab, and Pargat Singh, former Indian hockey team captain and Olympian, who is now a legislator of the ruling Akali Dal, Badal said he was committed to restoring "Punjab's old glory in hockey". He said the upcoming hockey stadium at Mohali, near Chandigarh, would have blue and pink colour astroturfs on the lines of the ones used in the
THE UPCOMING HOCKEY STADIUM AT MOHALI, WOULD HAVE BLUE AND PINK COLOUR ASTROTURFS ON THE LINES OF THE ONES USED IN THE LONDON GAMES
London Games. He went around the hockey stadiums in London, where the Indian team was on a losing spree. While neighbouring Haryana is claiming that four out of the six medals won by India this
THE KIWI HAS LANDED
The New Zealand cricket team arrived at the Rajiv Gandhi International airport in the City on Friday. New Zealand is scheduled to play two Tests and two T20 matches against India from Thursday.
time were bagged by players with Haryana connections — wrestlers Sushil Kumar and Yogeshwar Dutt, shooter Gagan Narang and badminton ace Saina Nehwal — Punjab has none to show on its report card
this time. Badal's ambitious sporting plans include better sports infrastructure, nurturing sporting talent right from Class 1 and building the competitive spirit among players. "We have already constructed seven hockey stadiums with world class astroturfs and seven more would be added in the next three years," Badal said after meeting top International Hockey Federation functionaries in London. Under one of the plans for revival of hockey in the state, the Punjab government has decided to support the Surjit Hockey Society which organises the annual Surjit memorial hockey tournament in the state. The tournament is in the memory of former Olympian Surjit Singh Randhawa, an acclaimed full back in the game, who died in a car accident in 1984. IANS
Russia outwit India, take lead CHENNAI: Top seeds Russia came up with a determined show as they downed India 'A' in the seventh round of the TATA 14th IBCA Chess Olympiad for the Blind 2012 here on Friday to lead the table with 12 match points. Ukraine, with 11 match points, inched to second spot defeating tournament leaders Spain narrowly. With its second successive defeat, Spain slid to third position along with Germany at 10 match points. India 'A' and Venezuela remained a further point adrift at 9. In the top table, Darpan Inani helped India 'A' get off the mark with a quick draw in the third board against Russian Sergei Smirnov. Makwana, the hero of Thursday's win over Spain, found himself in a minus position in a minor piece ending after three hours of play.
Krylov Sergey rolled his king-side pawns to clinch the issue in favour of Russia. In the top board, Swapnil Shah was a pawn down in opposite coloured bishop ending. Russian International Master Meshkov Yuri converted the end with skill and gave Russia the crucial point that took them to the top of the table. In the third table, Germany overcame Britain 2.5 - 1.5, taking the last board through Pohlers Juergen's efforts. Earlier, the first three boards ended in hard IANS fought draws.
30
SPORTS SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2012
Walker seizes PGA lead but Simpson lurks Jimmy Walker fired a bogey-free eight-under par 62 to seize a one-stroke lead in the 2nd round of the storm-interrupted Wyndham Championship. GREENSBORO: American Jimmy Walker fired a bogeyfree eight-under par 62 on Friday to seize a one-stroke lead in the second round of the storm-interrupted US PGA Wyndham Championship. Walker stood on 12-under 128 through 36 holes, one stroke ahead of reigning US Open champion Webb Simpson of the United States, the defending tournament champion who fired a 63.
Spain’s Sergio Garcia, Sweden’s Carl Pettersson, American Harrison English and South Africa’s Tim Clark shared third on 130 but players were scattered across the course, all with six holes or fewer to complete. Walker birdied the second and third holes and closed the front nine with
back-to-back birdies as well. He birdied the 11th and then charged in with birdies at the par-5 15th, par-3 16th and par4 17th to grab the lead. “It was pretty boringlooking golf -- not a lot of drivers, not a lot of 3-woods,” Walker said. “There’s a lot of 5-woods and some irons, and it’s just kind of placement around the golf course.”
back. “I struggled. Didn’t have much, but I thought it was a good comeback,” said Pettersson. “Two-under par was OK for the game that I had, and hopefully I can hit the ball better on the week-
Walker, 33, is seeking his first PGA title. He had three top-10 finishes in his first six tournaments of the season but suffered a left knee injury and skipped the US Open for treatment on the injury. He snatched the top spot from Simpson, who closed with four birdies in the final five holes in his own charge up the leader-board. “To play a round on a golf course this tricky without a bogey is always a good thing,” Simpson said. Pettersson, who led after an opening-round 62, birdied the par-5 15th in a two-under 68 second round to stumble
end and have a chance.” American Tim Herron matched the tournament record with a 61 but was seven strokes off the pace. “I didn’t really have anything to lose,” Herron said. “I kind of zoned in a little bit today and just kind of kept rolling and making putts.” Herron hopes to advance at least eight spots on the points list to crack the top 125 and qualify for the PGA playoffs that begin next week at The Barclays. Among those missing the cut and on the bubble for reaching the field next week were American Boo Weekley, rated 121st on the points list, and No 125 Jhonattan Vegas of Venezuela. Jimmy Walker hits his tee shot on the 18th hole during the second round of the Wyndham Championship at Sedgefield Country Club on Friday in Greensboro, North Carolina. AFP/GETTY IMAGES/HUNTER MARTIN
Governing body backs Lance NEW YORK: USA Cycling sided against the US AntiDoping Agency (USADA) in its fight against seven-time Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong in a letter written to a US federal judge about their dispute. The US sport governing body said it must back the International Cycling Union (UCI) claim that it has jurisdiction in the case and not USADA, which claims jurisdiction based on its mandate from the World Anti-Doping Agency. USADA had earlier charged Armstrong with taking performance-enhancing
Cavendish pulls out of Cyclassics BERLIN: British rider Mark Cavendish on Friday pulled out of Sunday’s Cyclassics, the only ProTour event to be staged in Germany. Cavendish, who won three stages of the Tour de France last month, was amongst the favourites for the title along with Slovakia’s Peter Sagan.
drugs as part of a doping conspiracy. Armstrong had then challenged USADA in federal court in his hometown of Austin, Texas, saying that USADA’s arbitration hearing policy denies him a US Constitutional right to a fair trial. In a letter to US District Judge Sam Sparks, Armstrong’s attorneys attached a letter from USA Cycling lawyer Stephen Hess that says USA Cycling supports UCI having “power to express its interpretation of WADA’s anti-doping code.” AFP
Jonathan to England’s rescue Julian Guyer
LONDON: Jonathan Bairstow rewarded England’s decision to recall him in place of Kevin Pietersen with a maiden Test fifty as they fought back on the second day of their series finale with South Africa at Lord’s. Bairstow came in Friday when England, just as the tourists had done in their first innings, had collapsed to 54 for four. But by stumps England were 208 for five. Bairstow was 72 not out, having added 124 for the fifth wicket with Ian Bell (58). Matt Prior was unbeaten on 22. However, that left England still 101 runs adrift of South Africa’s 309, with the Proteas, 1-0 up in the three-match series, only needing to avoid defeat to replace their hosts as the world’s top-ranked Test side. Bairstow, dropped by England after making a mere 38 runs during his first three Tests against the West Indies earlier this season, was under severe pressure -- especially following Pietersen’s 149 in the drawn second Test at Headingley. Despite that brilliant innings, England axed the South Africa-born Pietersen after he sent “provocative” texts, believed to be critical of his team-mates, to Proteas players. Bell though insisted Bairstow was not under extra pressure after coming in for the controversial Pietersen. “It was not on our minds. If we had thought like that, there would have been pressure on him,” Bell said.
31
SPORTS SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2012
Federer routs Fish, Serena ousted
Li hires Henin’s former coach
Roger Federer moved closer to winning another title as he crushed Mardy Fish while Angelique Kerber ended Serena William’s 19-match win streak. CINCINNATI: China’s Li
CINCINNATI: World No 1
Djokovic, Del Potro set up Olympic rematch
Roger Federer moved closer to a fifth ATP and WTA Cincinnati Masters crown on Friday as the Swiss star crushed American Mardy Fish 6-3, 7-6 (7/4) to reach the semi-finals. Federer, seeking his sixth title of the year, was in regal form as he beat Fish for the eighth time in nine meetings. The American has lost 17 of 20 sets in the one-sided rivalry. Federer will line up on Saturday against compatriot Stanislas Wawrinka after the Swiss stormed back to beat Canadian Milos Raonic 2-6, 7-6 (7/5), 6-4, in another quarterfinal. In women’s play, Angelique Kerber ended the 19-match win streak of Wimbledon and Olympic champion Serena Williams with a 6-4, 6-4 victory. The German fifth seed double-faulted on one match point but concluded with a winning ace on another to send the second seed out of the event, one that Williams has never won. China’s Li Na reached the semi-finals over top seed Agnieszka Radwanska 6-1, 6-1 as the Polish favourite struggled with a shoulder injury. Federer was playing a Cincinnati quarter-final for the sixth time in seven years as he aims for a 76th career trophy. He owns Wawrinka 11-1 overall in
N
ovak Djokovic booked a semi-final date with Olympic bronze medalist Juan Martin del Potro by beating Marin Cilic on Friday at the ATP-WTA Cincinnati Masters. Serb second seed Djokovic took only 80 minutes to dispatch the Croatian 6-3, 6-2, improving to 7-0 in their career rivalry having lost only one of 17 sets against him. Del Potro adv-anced to the rematch of the London Olympic bronze-medal match by ending the giantkilling run of Frenchman Jeremy Chardy 6-1, 6-3.
their personal rivalry. “I played realy well,” Federer said. “The second set was very competitive, but I was able to maintain a high level for a long time. I’m very pleased with the form and glad to reach the semis.” US Open champion Novak Djokovic booked a semi-final with Olympic bronze medallist Juan Martin del Potro by beating Marin Cilic. It will be a rematch of the bronze medal match at London.
Pedrosa sets practice pace INDIANAPOLIS: Spain’s Dani Pedrosa posted the fastest practice lap on Friday at the Indianapolis MotoGP, riding his Honda over the 2.621-mile, 16-turn layout in 1min 39.783secs. Pedrosa, who won at Indy in 2010, enters the weekend 23 points behind season pace-setter Jorge Lorenzo, also from Spain, and nine points ahead of Australian Casey Stoner, a fellow Honda rider, in the overall points chase. American Ben Spies, the 2010 Indy pole-winner and runner-up,
Indianapolis Grand Prix practice times INDIANAPOLIS: Practice session times on Friday for Sunday’s Indianapolis Grand Prix: 1. Dani Pedrosa 1:39.783, 2. Ben Spies 0.295, 3. Jorge Lorenzo 0.719, 4. Andrea Dovizioso 0.777, 5. Casey Stoner 0.840, 6. Cal Crutchlow 1.248.
was second in Friday’s practice session time chart on his Yamaha at 1:40.078 with Lorenzo third at 1:40.502 and Yamaha’s Andrea Dovizioso of Italy fourth at 1:40.560. Defending champion Stoner was fifth on 1:40.623 who was followed by Britain’s Cal Crutchlow sixth on his Yamaha at 1:41.055. Lorenzo halted his last toppace lap in the final turn, leaving uncertain his true potential entering Saturday’s qualifying for Sunday’s race.
Na, is preparing for the US Open with a clean slate after hiring Justine Henin’s former coach Carlos Rodriguez on a trial basis to steer a comeback bid. The 30-year-old, who vaulted into international sporting icon status in her home country of 1.3 billion people, has had a hard time keeping the form that brought China’s first Grand Slam title. Without a title since taking Roland Garros some 15 months ago for her sixth career crown, Li has lost three finals this year and found modifications in her tennis and personal life were becoming more necessary.
Fitness is the top priority
MADRID: Spanish tennis ace Rafael Nadal, who pulled out of the US Open due to injury, said on Friday his sole focus now was on getting back to full fitness again and not worrying about his world ranking. The world number three on Wednesday withdrew from the US Open, the final Grand Slam of the season, which starts in New York on August 27, because of his continuing battle with knee tendinitis. “Now I’m not bothered if I’m third or fourth in the ATP. The most important thing is to be physically fit,” said Nadal.
32
SPORTS SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2012
City face battle to retain title: Mancini
Roberto Mancini feels defending the PL trophy will be harder than clinching the club’s first title in 44 years.
Peter Ferguson
CITY ENDED THEIR
MANCHESTER: Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini believes defending the Premier League trophy will be harder than clinching the club’s first title in 44 years. City ended their long wait to be crowned kings of English football in the dying seconds of last season with two goals in stoppage-time to beat QPR 3-2 and pip bitter rivals Manchester United on goal difference. But now United have key defender Nemanja Vidic back to fitness after
LONG WAIT TO BE CROWNED KINGS OF ENGLISH FOOTBALL IN THE DYING SECONDS OF LAST SEASON. missing half of last season and have also beaten City in the race to sign Dutch striker Robin van Persie from Arsenal. Van Persie was a longtime target for Mancini only for United boss Sir Alex Ferguson to clinch
the £24 million deal this week. With Chelsea also splashing the cash in a bid to close the gap on City, Mancini, whose side begin their title defence against promoted Southampton at Eastlands on Sunday, is under no illusions about the size of the task facing his team. “It will be even harder than last year. United have played for the title every year for 20 years. Just because we won the championship last time, we can’t change that,” Mancini said. “Van Persie is one of the best strikers in the world — he is a really top player, the best striker last year. With Wayne Rooney, they will be the best strikers in the Premier League. “They signed him because they needed another striker. They are better with Van Persie. We have four strikers, it was impossible for me to have another one. “When you are champions everyone wants to beat you, starting with Southampton. For this reason it will be a difficult game.”
Scrabble
Boggle
Number game
SOLUTIONS
LONDON: Manchester
Suduko
DEMI ROGER DUDLEY JULIANNE
Ferdinand fined United’s Rio Ferdinand was fined £45,000 ($70,000, 57,000 euros) by the Football Association on Friday for improper conduct over comments he made on Twitter relating to the John Terry racism trial. Chelsea captain
Terry was found not guilty last month of racially abusing QPR defender Anton Ferdinand, Rio’s brother, during a Premier League game on October 23 last year, although he is also now contesting a FA charge over the same incident.