` 50/OCTOBER 2014 | VOL. 04 | ISSUE 02
SPECIAL ISSUE - PART 1
Eve Poised Poonam KCR’s Kavita
Life Samrat Ashok Gajapathi Raju PVP Powerhouse
SURIYA THE SUPREME
GenX Epic Creator Ram Laxman’s Gameplan
LUXURY
Red Race 170 Gear up to go vroom-vroom with BMW this time.
Red Gadgets 172 Let earth know how hard you are working out, wear this smart GPS watch. There is a magic ring too, in Gadget segment, read through to know what it does.
Retreat 182 Extreme- the word is not enough, to describe these thrills. Eat, Sleep, Zip, Jump, Climb, Ride or Run, you still can’t escape them.
Red Dazzle 154 The heavy and chunky embellishers await you here! Beware! They can daze your eyes.
Red Haute The temperature is certainly going to rise when he shines so bright. It’s a sunny day as Suriya rises in red haute.
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Red Life
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Red Life
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Mr.Prasad V. Potluri unleashed: ‘Think Big’ is the watchword among the business evangelists, but is that enough to pioneer globalisation or to build the largest urban infrastructure of AP? Let us learn from PVP’s saga.
He hails from a royal family and now rules the Indian skies as the Aviation Minister. Yet Mr.Ashok Gajapathi Raju remains down-to-earth. Find out how this selfeffacing ‘maharaja’ commands his people with love.
Red GenX
Red GenX
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He got vision in his DNA, politics in legacy and power through his popularity. Who says epic only happens in mythology? Meet Ram, he re-creates idyllic rajya in Kaliyuga!
Red Entertainment 136
After his scoresshowering era, let’s learn how Laxman plays his life’s real innings. Here is the man off-pitch, fielding our questions.
Which star made to the steaming hot gossips? Which diva stunned everyone with her piping hot news? The big release that will bloat the box office or the book that can take you to another world? Get glued to our Entertainment.
Red Eve Red Eve She breaks the image of a typical teacher. With her around one can surely have fun while learning. The popular educationist of tiny tots and quite naturally, favourite of their parents too, Poonam peps up the Eve.
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Here is a combo, which can coin a new maxim- like father-like daughter. Kavitha makes it possible, her words and action both speak loud enough to reach thousands of her followers.
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Sr. Feature Writer Ranita Ray
Asst. Editor Sumana Reddy
Sr. Photographer Dinakar Pamu
Image Processing P. Venkatesh
Office Helper Krishna Veni
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Sr. Designer K. Shankar
Office Helper Bangari
Dy. Manager - Circulation
Dy. General Manager - Advt Selvaraj Dominic
Asst. Manager - Advt. A. Hanma
Asst. Manager - Marketing Mala Chaudrani
Sr. Executive - Subscription & Sales A. Santosh
Sr. Executive - Subscription & Sales S. Chiranjeevi
Sr. Executive - Subscription & Sales P. Ajay
PUBLISHER’S NOTE
Three years, 36 issues, countless experiences and experiments- Oh! What a journey! It looks like only yesterday I shared the stage with Samantha who unveiled the rst edition of red. I was barely 21 when I set out on this path. My well-wishers warned me that I was taking a thorn-strewn path. Yet propelled by passion, I set out on this roller coaster ride which took me to electrifying ups and some shocking downs. It has been tough. But it is once again proved that success follows those who pursue their dreams with passion. While presenting a high quality magazine to the discerning readers, I learnt many life lessons. It has expanded my horizons, brining me face to face with men and women of substance. On this 3rd Anniversary, I wish to thank my parents and my dear sister, who stood by me at every step. A special mention has to be made of Kalajyothi Printers for making the magazine a visual treat and RBC Worldwide for designing the picture perfect issues. All this is not possible without the support of a dedicated team, patrons, advertisers and well-wishers. I thank them all. Coming to the Part 1 of this Special issue, we have introduced new segments Focus and Fashion, besides reviving the Trade. When we are in an expansion mode, it is natural and necessary that we fortify the magazine with fresh and innovative features. These additions give us a wider scope to throw light on many more issues pertaining to both the states. I hope they will earn your appreciation and applause. Kings are passé. But even now there are leaders who rule the hearts of people and command respect. Mr.Ashok Gajapathi Raju, Union Minister for Civil Aviation, is one of them. We capture a few glimpses of this nobleman. Some are born with silver spoons in their mouths. Mr.Prasad V. Potluri earned it through his acumen and hard work. Read about them in Life. Srikakualm MP, Ram Mohan Naidu, who dons the enormous mantle of his father the late Mr.Yerran Naidu, is keeping the family ag ying. Our GenX spotlights this friendly neighbourhood Ram and absolutely global Laxman, the ace cricketer, who recently called it a day. Turn to Eve to learn how Kavitha supplies ‘cultural’ ammunition to her father’s political battles. She is the daughter of Telangana Chief Minsiter Mr.K.Chandrasekhar Rao. Poonam Shah Srinath belongs to a school of thought that propounds ‘Play is the happiest mode of learning’ and her schools run on the same principle. She is our Vizag diva this month. Suriya, who is basking in the tinsel glory, graces our cover as we uncover a few facts about him in Haute. red started as a single city entity. But now it is a two-state magazine. If the same encouragement is given, I shall embellish it further and reach it to stands nationwide. After all “Achievement is the product of raising one’s levels of aspiration.” I wish you all a very Happy Dasara and Deepavali.
Chandra Mouli Tippala, Publisher red | october 2014 | 46
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VIZAG SRI LANKAN FOOD FESTIVAL @ THE PARK The Park organized the Sri Lankan Food Festival at its beachside restaurant Bamboo Bay. Recreating the different avours of the cuisine, Chef Duminda Kumara Abeysiriwardena has come all the way from Sri Lanka to dish out a lipsmacking range of authentic delicacies comprising 10 different menus each day for dinner. Most of the dishes had a liberal dose of coconut avour. The chef’s specialty lied in his focus on retaining the authentic avours, while giving equal importance in making it a healthy wholesome feast. The cuisine mainly consisted of boiled or steamed rice served with curry. The foodies started with the mild green gram soup and proceeded on to the main course which comprised red chicken curry, white crab in mustard sauce, fried brinjal, green gram curry and a decent selection of desserts.
MISS VIZAG 2014 POSTER UNVEILED The poster and crown launch of Miss Vizag 2014 was held at The Park Hotel. The event is being hosted by Ajay Agarwal, CEO of Creative Plus entertainment network with the support of Prema Events’ Raj Kumar. Mr. Chandu Tippala, CMD, red magazine, the media partner for the event, elded questions. “Without the help of the media I couldn’t have been successful,” said Ajay Agarwal. “Women can look beautiful even at the age of 60. I feel the most beautiful woman is Mother Teresa,” said MLA Vasupalli Ganesh Kumar. Sindhura Kavitha, winner of Miss Vizag 2013, unveiled the crown. This year the crown holder will be winning a diamond ring, Scooty, mobile phones, etc. Applications are available at Varun Inox Eat and at 93.5 Red FM ofce. COCKTAIL AND MOCKTAIL FEST @ MEGHALAYA A Just Chill-themed festival - Winter Mocktail and Cocktail Festival is in progress at the Embers Bar and Fine Dining of Hotel Meghalaya. The festival brings out an array of formulated winter coolers (both with alcohol and without alcohol) that are a mix of great Indian and international avours and infused with the goodness of fresh fruits and juices. The cocktail coolers included Capriozzca, Gimlet, Sex in the Beach, Litchi Tini, Abra Ka Dabra, Hot Today, Carriban Ice Tea and many more shooters and reshots. The mock tails comprised Strawberry Surprise, Orange Twist, Purpal Rain, Lovely Lady, Mango Blossom and other Barman Special mocktails. Started from Sept 1 the festival will be on till the end of the month.
VIZAG SINGHAM SUZUKI SHOWROOM OPENED Human Resources Minister Ganta Srinivasa Rao inaugurated Singham Suzuki showroom in Madhuranagar. Speaking on the occasion the Minister said that many such showrooms should come up in the city and give good service to the customers. Suzuki Motors Deputy Manager Prashanti Agarwal announced that the showroom got the second dealership for Gixxer Suzuki two wheelers. Chief guest handed over the two-wheelers to rst buyers Ch Pradeep and K Ramya. Showroom MD Venkateswara Rao (Lucky) and directors Singamshetty Sandeep Kumar and Komaldeep and others participated in the programme.
HYUNDAI ELITE I 20 UNVEILED Noted Dentist Dr.K.Vijayakumar Raju unveiled The Elite I 20 at Lakshmi Hyundai Showroom. Speaking on the occasion showroom Deputy General Manager David Raju said the new model is available in seven attractive colours. The new car comes in two versions. The cost of petrol version is around Rs 4.98 lakh and that of diesel is Rs 7.8 lakh. Its other features include Bluetooth connectivity, multifunction steering wheel, audio with Bluetooth control, smart key and dual airbags.
VESPA ESCLUSIVO LAUNCHED Piaggio, Italian Automobile Company, launched new scooter Esclusivo at Ora Motors. Company’s (AP) Sales Manager P. Kranthi Kumar unveiled the two-wheeler. Company’s Director Krishnakanth and General Manager Ramesh Kumar participated in the programme. Phoenix IT Solutions CEO Murali and KRN Sons Director K.R.B. Prakash handed over the rst scooter to the rst purchaser P. Dhanalakshmi. The two-wheeler comes in LX, VX and S Variants with 125 cc and 3valve engine. Only 1000 such units are produced for sale across India. Each Vespa Esclusivo comes with a unique limited edition number badge.
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VIZAG ‘EMERALD CITY’ BROCHURE RELEASED Bhoomatha Real Estates and Developers Private Ltd and Bhoomatha Township Developers released the brochure of its gated community venture ‘Emerald City’ at a function organized at Hotel Four Points By Sheraton. Its Managing Director Talluri Poornachandra Rao said the venture was coming up at Bhogapuram near the National Highway. The layout would be developed with modern facilities like club house, swimming pool, play ground, solar and common lighting facilities. Directors P.Kiran Shankar, Talluri Sivaji, vicepresident K.Gopal, GMs Harikrishna, Venkanna and others participated in the event.
PRAKASHITES SET AN EXAMPLE Mr.O.Naresh Kumar, CEO, Symbiosis inaugurated the Rotary Club Visakha Port City Youth Services month. Speaking on the occasion he wanted prizes be given to students who take active part in social service activities. Interact Club of Sri Prakash Vidyanikethan donated articial limbs to the physically challenged persons. Rotary Club conducted an elocution competition in which students of Visakha Valley School and Sri Prakash Vidyanikethan participated. Rotary Club president, Mr.P.L.K.Murthy presided over the function. Youth Services Director Mr.Ch.Vasu Prakash, President elect Philip Timothy, Asst. Governor A.Usha Rani, Past dist. Governor Ch Surya Rao, Dist. Secretary G. Viswanath, Dist. Water and Sanitation Chair, B.K.Rai and other Rotarians participated and Pawan G Agarwal, president, Mumbai Dabbawala and Kamalabai Educational Charitable Trust was honoured. On a different occasion Prakashites feted renowned photographers to mark the World Photography Day.
FLASHMOB ON ECO AWARENESS As part of their 12th national Programme for Environmental Awareness in Schools (PEAS) the students of Timpany School took part in the awareness campaign by conducting a ash mob at the CMR Central, which enthralled the audience and sent a message on the current environmental situation. Through the ash mob, they described the harm the environment is being subjected to and the need to conserve it for future generations. Expressing their happiness over being a part of the programme, the students exhorted the people to use natural resources judiciously. The organisers said that the PEAS programme was an initiative from Timpany schools, which is being conducted annually since 2002. “The idea behind the ash mob is to convey the message of sustainable development and draw attention to several environmental issues like depleting natural resources, noise pollution,” said school principal Nalini Nelson. Timpany School chairman Ken Gnanakam spoke. Cultural programmes, quiz and environmental programmes were conducted apart from the ash mob. red | october 2014 | 58
VIZAG GOKUL BUYS FIRST APPLE I PHONE 6 Mr.Gokul Viswas, Managing Director, Gokul Finance, has got the honour of possessing the rst Apple I Phone 6 in the city. He purchased the handset with latest updates from the US Shoppe located on Beach Road. Mr.Jami Sridhar, the Shop owner, handed over the gadget to Mr.Gokul. It is only relevant to mention here that the store is the city’s best known destination for prestigious brands like Apple Iphone, Black Berry, HTC, Karbonn, LG, Nokia, Onida, Samsung, Videocon, Sony. The shoppers need not go with bulged bags and pockets as it is ready to accept credit cards including MasterCard, Visa, Visa Electron. As the shoppee is ideally located at a vantage point, it lures people turning them into prospective buyers. There cannot be a more ideal place to visit, when one is in a mood for leisure shopping that can be clubbed with a walk or drive on the beach,
G. Samba Siva Rao, P.V.G.K.Murthy, Dr. M. S Raju, Dr. N. S. Raju, Rev. Sis, Ross, K.N. Nayak
ACF CELEBRATES SECOND ANNIVERSARY Commending the endeavours of Dr. N.S.Raju, Managing Trustee and Medical Director of Sneha Sandhya Agecare Foundation (ACF), the chief guest Mr. K.N. Nayak, DyGM, SBI, Visakhapatanam, said, “His self-less service to the aged is praiseworthy.” Mr. Nayak was addressing a meet, held to celebrate the 2nd anniversary of Voluntary organisation. Guest of honour, Mr.G.Sambasiva Rao, MD, Sravan Shipping Services Pvt.Ltd, said that the people need to look at the growing needs of aged. Dr. M.S. Raju, CMO, GVMC and guest of honour, said that Dr.Raju’s approach to the medical profession is creative. Mr.P.V.G.K.Murthy, Chairman of the organisation thanked donors. Dr.N. S. Raju, Dr.Vidya, Rev.Sister Rose and Sister Thomas spoke. The ACF honoured Mrs.Valli Ram Gopal and Mrs. Ram Gopal for their services and Dr.T.V.S. Rao, Chairman and Mrs. Padma Rao felicitated them. V.SARADA, VIJAY HONOURED Editor-in-Chief V.Sarada and senior photographer of red magazine Dhana Vijay have been bestowed with the best journalist and the best photo journalist awards for 201314 by the Andhra Pradesh Union of Working Journalists (APUWJ) in recognition of their contributions journalism and photo journalism respectively. MP Dr Kambhampati Hari Babu and Andhra University Vice-Chancellor G.S.N.Raju handed over the award to Vijay at a function organized at the Journalism Department of Andhra University. He was felicitated with a shawl and memento. Awards and compliments are not new to Dhana Vijay. Earlier he received the best photographer award from the then Srikakulam District Collector Srikant. He was also the president of Srikakulam District Photo Journalists Association. red | october 2014 | 60
VIZAG BLOSSOMS OPENS ANOTHER BOUTIQUE Blossoms opened its second boutique in the Landmark Building opposite Sampath Vinayaka Temple. Mrs.Curie inaugurated the boutique in the presence of its owners Sunil and Deepika. Primarily with georgette and chiffon base, all the saris are designed and come with readymade fancy blouses. The store has a huge collection of latest trends like the lehenga pattern suits and sari suits apart from unstitched and semi-stitched cotton materials.
COOL FUN AT KK’S DEN It was time for the Rotary Vizag Couples Club to enjoy some happy hours. The occasion was Fellowship dinner, the host was Krishna Kanth (KK) and the venue was his cozy house. With ample drinks owing all night and scrumptious snacks being served the evening happened to be one where the guests just relaxed and enjoyed the party. Apart from the food and drinks there were plenty of entertainment programmes planned for the guests. Started in 2003 this is one-of-its-kind club with 35 elite couples who take up a lot of social services too.
Namratha, Jyothi, Krishanakanath & Nanditha
Annapurna , Ramprasad & Nanditha
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Nikith, Sudhir & Sridevi Mulagada
VIZAG IIID HOLDS ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEET The local chapter of Institute of Indian Interior Designers (IIID) has plans to create awareness on interior designing. This was decided at the annual general body meeting of the chapter. Welcoming the gathering Paromita of Palm Beach said, IIID endeavours to develop information design as an independent inter-disciplinary eld of knowledge and professional practice and it has established links with renowned universities, research laboratories and design companies. IIID outgoing chairman Ameet Mirpuri introduced his successor architect Suresh Kanna and other new ofce-bearers that include Ramana Rao – chairman elect, Sree Ram Mudragada – vice-chairman, Suresh Kumar – honorary secretary, Uday Prasad – treasurer –trade, Sobhan and Madhukar Rathi – committee members. Studio Orion sponsored the programme. Bina
Tarun Gupta
Usha, Vijaya Lakshmi, Jayanthi, Padma & Amrutha
Anuradha
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Paromita & Ameet Mirpuri
Srilatha
Arunasri
JOY WITH COW BOY It was time for some rocking fun inspired by the rugged terrain of west. Well, if you are guessing about the pub name, then let us tell you it was agged off by the Bay Kittie, not any club. It is the rst episode of some serious merrymaking since the kittie’s introduction last month by Mrs.Aruna Sree. Keeping their word to be unique, the rst kittie' s theme was Wild West where the ladies were all dressed like the counterparts of cowboys and had a blast. What else could
Pushpa
Alekya
VIZAG TSR CELEBRATES 71ST B’DAY Rajya Sabha member T.Subbarami Reddy celebrated his 71st birthday at Port Kalavani Auditorium. Several celebrities including lm stars wished him. To mark the occasion singing legend K J Yesudas was bestowed with “Viswa Vikhyata Sangita Kalanidhi” title to mark the golden jubilee of his singing career. Instituted by T Subbarami Reddy Lalita Kala Parishat, the award was presented to him at a glittering function by Tamil Nadu Governor K. Rosaiah, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman P.J. Kurien, noted singer S P Balasubrahmanyam and actor and Rajya Sabha member Chiranjeevi in the presence of a host of actors and political leaders. Mr. Chiranjeevi recalled the early trials and tribulations of Mr. Yesudas following religious prejudice. APCC President Raghuveera Reddy, Botcha Satyanarayana and D Srinivas, Panchayat Raj Minister Ch. Ayyanna Patrudu, Rajya Sabha member K V P Ramachandra Rao, Swami Swarupananda of Sri Sarada Peetham, actors Mohanbabu, Brahmanandam, Vanisri, Ambica, Sana, Priya, former MP M V V S Murthi, former Union Minister Killi Kripa Rani, several former ministers, former MLAs were present.
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VIZAG
GITAM HOLDS 5TH CONVOCATION Director General of DRDO, Scientic Adviser to Defence Minister and Secretary to Department of Defence (R&D) Avinash Chander was conferred the honorary Doctor of Science by the GITAM University at its fth convocation. Delivering the convocation address he said, “In the present education system, single disciplinary study has taken a backseat. The need of the hour is inter-disciplinary approach and all educational institutions should follow this model.” Honorary D. Litt degrees were given to lm director K. Raghavendra Rao, lyricist Suddala Ashok Teja, and woman entrepreneur Ch. Shailaja Kiron. About 1,220 students, 21 research scholars and three M.Phil scholars received their degrees. In total 56 gold medals were presented. Chancellor of the University K. Ramakrishna Rao, President of the university M.V.V.S Murthi, Vice-Chancellor G. Subrahmanyam, Pro V-C D. Harinarayana, Registrar M. Pothuraju and others were present.
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VIZAG AUDI LAUNCHES NEW SEDAN Audi’s new sedan was launched in the city. The A3 is available with two engine options and is priced rather competitively compared to the BMW 1 Series and Mercedes-Benz A- and BClass. The A3 sedan just looks like its bigger siblings, the A4 and the A6 but in a smaller package. The new car is priced at Rs 23.59 lakh onwards. Depending on the speciď€ cations, the A3 comes equipped with seven airbags, a secondary collision assist and a pedestrian-safe active bonnet. There is also a rest recommendation system, which warns the driver of fatigue. Audi General Manager (Operations) A. Suresh Kumar was among others present at the launch. Sameera
Lata Morada
Meher
Kavitha reddy
Shamini & B.K
Rajni & Sandeep Chitra Rana
Chitturi Srinadh
Swamy & Krishna
VIZAG TRENDZ EXPO@NOVOTEL Fashionaistas pampered themselves to the latest in fashion at the Trendz Expo organized at Hotel Novotel. Trendz, spearheaded by Mrs.Santhi Kathiravan has endeavored to provide a competitive platform to new and established designers, and entrepreneurs, to exhibit their products/designs, through such events and has been successfully conducting exhibitions across South India with participants from all over India. From handcrafted metallic and non-metallic jewellery with precious and semi-precious stones, to ethnic jewellery, bangles, pendants, bracelets, earrings to designer and hand-embroidered saris, designer blouses, designer silver jewellery, designer dress material, kurtis, lehengas, kidswear, exclusive leather furnishings, home accessories, Tussars and silk saris, traditional handlooms saris, footwear, georgette designer kurtis, cosmetics, gift articles, kitchen accessories, etc were on display.
VIZAG REVELRY OF ROUND TABLERS Round Table Area 9 Agm had a grand gathering recently at Varun Novotel hotel. Over 350 members all of Area 9 came together to make the event a grand success. The dress code was black for men and red for the women members. The event was designed around a casino theme called Bazigaar and many exciting games like thambola, musical chairs, etc were organised. The dance oor remained occupied with the thumping music belted out by the DJ specially arranged for the event. However, it wasn’t all fun as the group discussed about the best social activity done by various tables. Gulshan, Sarita, Tina & Megha Kishan & Amith
Riaz Kham, Sumeet, Krishna Keerthi & Kalyan
Ramesh & Sirisha
Kasthuri & Rishi
Pruthvi & Jyothi
Nikki & Shankar Ahuja
Murali & Vani
Hakim & Shaheda
Sumeet & Surabhi
Shreya & Piyush
Swetha & Pavan
Sapna & Sushil Somani
V Pradeep Kumar & Sudani Devi
Sanjeev & Bela Gupta
Somayajulu & Sharvani
Ashok Mirpuri & Monica
Atchut & Vyjayanthi
Reena Somani & Sangeetha Choudhari
P S Dhillion & Navjot
HYDERABAD BOUTIQUE FOR DESIGNER INVITATION CARDS K. Kavitha, MP of Nizamabad inaugurated Raga, a boutique for exclusive designer invitation cards. Located on the oor above Sabya Sachi on Road No. 10, Banjara Hills, the store is spread over 1,000 sft and offers gifting and invitation solutions created by eminent designers from all over the country. This rst franchisee model of ‘Gampa Bros’ is established by owners Rashmita and Shilpa. Mukesh Goud, Dil Raju and others were present at the inauguration.
JAPAN CENTRE FOR ARTS AND CULTURE OPENED The Japan Centre for Arts and Culture (JCAC) was inaugurated in the city. K.T.Rama Rao, Minister for Information Technology, Communications and Panchayat Raj, Government of Telangana unveiled the logo. “JCAC, is a not-for-prot endeavour and our aim is to create an intellectual and creative institution to study Japanese cultural and literary contributions," said Ramakanth Thumrugoti, President of JCAC, Hyderabad. Shimano Yosh, former President of Y's Men's Clubs Hikone, Japan, Jayesh Ranjan, IAS, Managing Director, Andhra Pradesh Industrial Infrastructure Corporation, R.V. Chandravadan, Commissioner, Information & Public Relations, BV Papa Rao and Ramanachary, IAS, Advisors to Government of Telangana, were the Guests of Honour. Priya, Anjali, Papa Rao, Sangeetha, Rekha Reddy, Ramakanth and Anannda, Jayesh Ranjan, were spotted. SONU SOOD @ KWC LUXURIO ORIS Watches India Pvt Ltd welcomed Bollywood actor Sonu Sood at KWC Luxurio in Jubilee Hills to have a look at the Swiss watch collection. Sonu, a passionate watch collector, had a keen eye on Oris. Mr. Venugopal Totla, the dealer responsible for the business growth of the brand in Hyderabad was present. Mr. Sanjay Mishra, General Manager, Oris Watches India Pvt Ltd welcomed the actor. Koyal Chandak, Shaheen, Kishan Lohiya, Ramesh Patel and Rekha Malpani were among those who attended the event.
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HYDERABAD CELEBRATING THEATRE Bharatnatyam exponent and stage artiste Vani Ganapathy and theatre revivalist Padmashri Mohammad Ali Baig were engaged in an on-stage conversation with their audience at The Park Hotel. The danseuse narrated how dance, music and theatre change the society. She spoke about her venture into theatre with Mohammad Ali Baig’s ‘His Exalted Highness’ and ‘Pankhdiyaan.’ She said that artistes are not getting due recognition nor allotted lands to start their academies and added that a theatre revivalist of international repute should not be neglected when he has brought the much needed glory to this state. She said that it is time Telangana woke up before Baig was offered the same and ‘grabbed’ by other states. Spotted at the event were Ananya, Gurleen Kaur Bagga, Esha, Harish, Lubna, Manjula Narsa, Shagun Ali, Sarita and Kishan Lohiya.
ODE TO HYDERABAD BY POOJA KAPUR ‘Ode to Hyderabad: Royal Vesak’, an art show by Pooja Kapur was held at Muse Art Gallery. This was the artist’s debut solo show and art enthusiasts attended the event. The show was ‘curated’ by Kaali Sudheer. Pooja said, “I thank Sudheer who gave me a platform to grow and ourish with my art work. He also ‘curated’ my debut solo show.” “The show conveys my gratitude to the people of Hyderabad,” she added. The event was inaugurated by lmmaker Mani Shankar and the show was graced by many socialites of the city. Spotted were Imran Khan, Kamal Kamaraju, Sravanthi Juluri, Suchitra, Dr. Kamala and Sherry Zaveri. TRIUMPH GREETS BIKE RIDERS The Bike Festival of India, a national safety ride expedition, promoting responsible biking was agged off by Indian cricketer Ishant Sharma in New Delhi on 31st August 2014. It has journeyed through cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Ajmer, Udaipur, Ahmedabad, Surat, Vapi, Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, Ooty, Kochi and Chennai so far. In Hyderabad, the riders halted at the dealership of Triumph Motorcycles, the ofcial safety ride partners of BFI national safety ride and interacted with the biking enthusiasts and citizens. In the third leg of the ride, the riders head towards Rajamundry, Behrampur and Bhadrak before reaching Kolkata for the nal leg.
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HYDERABAD MEGHAVI LAUNCHED Meghavi, a unisex Spa, Salon and O Cafe was launched by two friends Vidya and Megha who specialise in hospitality and wellness. Located at 34 - A, MLA Colony, Road No.12, Banjara Hills, Meghavi’s motto is to provide a wholesome approach to wellness by integrating a varied range of Spa & Beauty therapies along with other cognitive sciences like hypnosis, past life regression, Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP). It is also on a quest of promoting wellness not as luxury but as lifestyle incorporated in our daily life and treating problems like hypertension, diabetes, migraine, obesity, back ache, thyroid and frozen shoulders. The launch witnessed a special workshop of ‘facercise’ which showcased various facial exercises to keep the face young and glowing.
FLAUNSICA FASHION SALE Flaunsica, an exhibition organised by Amrita, Prestha and Aishwarya Agarwal was unveiled at Park Hyatt. The one-day expo offered exquisite traditional and western couture, footwear and home accessories and all fashion acionados were on a shopping spree. Spotted at the event were Meenu, Nehal, Roshni, Stuti, Varsha, Swetha and Mehak. DARPAN LAUNCHES NEW STORE The ne home furnishings store, Darpan launched its fourth store in Banjara Hills. Speaking at the launch, Mr. Suleman Hirani, MD said, “For over a decade, Darpan Furnishings has let homes come alive with elegant décor and we take pride in our legacy.” The city’s renowned home decor destination saw the presence of eminent architects and interior designers at the inaugural. Two key industry luminaries Sona Chatwani, Chairperson - Institute of Indian Interior Designers (IIID), Hyderabad chapter and Nanda Kumar Birudavolu, Secretary - IIID, also Hyderabad chapter graced the occasion. This new outlet offers more choice, more perspectives and more value for money and targets the elite. Spotted were Amita, Zeenat, Priyanka, Bela and Praful.
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HYDERABAD FUNKAAR CLUB MEET The Funkaar Club gals had yet another rendezvous on 18th Sept for great masti and greater dhamaal. Only this time, it was a round of gup- shup, naach-gaana and some antakshari. Apart from the busy agenda for the gala, the members had a fun dress theme where all the ladies turned up in Kaftans and Kurtis. Early birds to the event scored surprises and the others won gifts. Sushila Bokadia and Anita Rathi played the perfect hosts and kept their guests on their toes throughout the evening. Aanchal, Deepali, Madhu, Rekha, Sageeta, Sarla Gupta, Seema Chopra, Shalini and Vinita were spotted at the event.
SRINIVASA TEXTILES OPENS 2ND OUTLET Srinivasa Textiles opened its 2nd outlet at Banjara Hills Rd No. 12. The outlet has an array of dress materials, saris, fusion lehengas, kids wear and textiles for men. Spread across 7,000 sft, the shop offers creative designs and spectacular ensemble at pocket friendly prices. It also provides an in-house designer to assist the shoppers. The owners, Sailaja and Santosh welcomed the guests and ushered them for a festive shopping spree. Actress Asmita Sood, Mrs. Planet 2014 Mrs.Mehak Murthy and other models showcased some unique designer wear at the launch ceremony. SRIMATHI SILK MARK PAGEANT To mark its 10th anniversary Silk Mark Organization of India plans to conduct Srimathi Silk Mark pageant for silk loving married women aged between 22 and 40 years. The fashion show and grand ď€ nale will be held on 25th September and the expo will be held at Shilpakala Vedika, Near Cyber Towers, Madhapur from Sept 23 to 29. The expo will showcase a variety of silk products representing 25 silk clusters from more than 15 silk producing states from north to south and from East to West.
red | october 2014 | 86
HYDERABAD THE TRENDZ(Y) FAIR Presenting renowned fashion designers and best artisans from across the country, Trendz Lifestyle Expo compelled women to indulge in shopping at Taj Krishna. It offered an array of apparels from different parts of the country like Kolkata, Bombay, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, Madhya Pradesh, Delhi and our own Hyderabad. Shanthi, the organiser said that she established this fair with an objective of promoting designers, women entrepreneurs and artisans by organising expositions all over India. The designers showcased exquisite saris, designer apparels, jewellery, bridal wear, half saris, lehengas, life style accessories, home decors, kids wear and much more in seventy stalls. Avantika, Bonya, Deepa, Preeti, Swathi and Vaishali were a few shoppers spotted here. Krishnudu
Deepa
Vaishali
Bonnya
VASTRA VIBHA EXPO Hyderabad witnessed yet another exhibition cum sale, Vastra Vibha at Sathyasai Nigamagamam which showcased exclusive designer apparel for women and kids. Handlooms, imitation jewellery fashion and lifestyle accessories, handicrafts and kitchenware were on display. The expo was hosted by Allure, an event management company. Inaugurated by Mr. Allu Arvind, the fair had all the fashionistas shop a wide range of affordable products. Santooshi, who organized the sale, played a perfect host to the shoppers and guests present there. Spotted at the expo were Anupama, Indrani, Kanchan, Spandana Reddy, Sucharita Reddy, Virupa, Shreya and Suhasini. Indrani
Sucharita Reddy
Kanchan
Spandana Reddy
HYDERABAD Sheetal, Sashi Nahata, Bhagya Sree & Alok Nahata
AKKRITTI LIFSTYLE EXPO Akritti Elite, a two-day fashion and lifestyle expo was organised at Taj Krishna. It showcased latest collection of designer saris, ethnic wear, kurtis, Pakistani suits, jewellery, handbags, clutches and home accents. Renowned designers from Dubai, Thailand, Bangalore, Delhi, Indore and other parts of the country exhibited the most luxurious fashion apparel and accessories and the shopaholics shopped till they dropped. Akritti organises exhibitions across the country with an objective of promoting designers, women entrepreneurs and arts and culture. Anchal, Atulya , Bindu, Manisha, Neha, Palak Simran, Vaishali and Vijaya were among those who graced the event.
Mansi
Radhika Agarwal
Aanchal Bharwani
Natasha
Nidhi
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Nikitha Sharma Amruta
Monika
HYDERABAD D'SIRE EXHIBITION AND SALE SIZZLES Hyderabadis got another season of D'sire Exhibition and Sale at Taj Krishna, last month. Inaugurated by Anita Agarwal, -Chief Organiser, the two day show received an overwhelming response from the fashionistas. Famous for its exquisite designs, D’sire has made its mark among the designer exhibition across India. Anita who has started the trend of Designer Exhibition in Hyderabad said that Desire has been always special for Hyderabadis, as it has always offered unique and creative designers. Pavan, Preeti, Suhani, Sanjana Reddy, Meenkashi, Manju, Shilpa and many others were seen among the enthusiastic buyers.
Pavan, Preeti, Anita Agarwal & Suhani
Meenakshi Lavanya
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Srishti
Josie
Paavani Khurana Amrutha
Payal
Shalini
HYDERABAD REJOICE TABLA This famous restaurant opened yet another branch for its food fanatics, but this time at RTC crossroads near Sandhya Theatre. Inaugurated by Md.Mohamood Ali, Mr.T.Rajaiah and other V.I.Ps, this outlet offers multi cuisine ne- dine menu options. Also opened alongside is Thali Darbar, another division by Tabla which offers North and South Indian Thali platters at reasonable rates. Mr. Swaroop Soma, the directorsaid the modest interiors were done by Shankar Ahuja. Spotted were Arshad Khan, Madhu, Sangeetha, Deepa and Nivedita along with the director’s brothers, Bisket Srikanth and Shashi. The restaurant had an overwhelming response from the guests who tasted the delectable fare.
Meenakshi
Param
Shashi & Nivedita
Arshad Khan
SANGHA LAUNCHED Volvo Hyderabad opened its doors to the connoisseurs of Theatre, Music and Art. It launched an art gallery, Sangha at Volvo Service Centre in Hafeezpet. Sangha, a venture of the Talwar Group, is a cultural centre which provides a platform for artists to exhibit their works. This art café is opened at Hafeezpet adjoining the Volvo service centre. It follows a quirky concept of being an automobile workshop by the week and cultural centre by the weekend. It also organised live music by Syntychi Mongro, live car painting by D. Jaya Prakash and an art show by Camphor Crest. Deepthi Reddy, Rebeca Gupta, Rumana, Sidharth, Sudheer and Vishwanath were among those who attended the event.
Qutub Alam Khan
Shashi & Nivedita
Deepthi Reddy
Sunil Talwar
Saket & Arpita Talwar
Saral & Radhika Talwar
HYDERABAD AP CM AT YFLO MEET Mr. N.Chandrababu Naidu, Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh addressed the members of Young FICCI Ladies Organization (YFLO) recently. The event was held at Taj Krishna. That was an evening to remember to the members as they had an opportunity to interact with the leader. The session started off with a welcome address by the YFLO chair, Ms. Shankuntala Devi which was followed by a discussion on ‘entrepreneur of the hour’. Samia Alam Khan, the vice chairperson proposed a vote of thanks. Kamini Saraf, Jyothsna, Mansi Mallik, Swapna and Sandhya Raju were prominently present at the event.
Swapna & Chandra Babu Naidu Kamini Saraf
Jyostna Angara
Sunaina
Shankuntala Devi
CELEBRATING LIFE The underprivileged lived their dreams of a respected and modish lifestyle through project ‘Life is Beautiful’. Tejas and Harish Hindocha gifted some of the couples with an opportunity to wear hi-end luxury outts and organised photo shoot session at a resort. They even offered them best time of the life including gratis stay and delicious food in the company of people drawn from different sections of the society. The event displayed photos clicked of the four chosen couples expressing their happiness. Spotted at the event were Ash Kaur, Shashi Nahata, Jaya Baheti, Shekar Kammula, Imran, Raunaq Yar Khan and renowned cricketer V.V.S. Laxman.
Harish, Esha, Rina & Tejas Hindocha red | october 2014 | 96
Rhea, Namitha, Mehak, Geeta & Sonia
HYDERABAD
YEA WEBSITE LAUNCHED Mr. Prasad V. Potluri, PVP Venture Chairman launched the logo and website of the young entrepreneurs association (YEA), which is a group of business intellectuals from Hyderabad, at Park Hyatt. The members who are in the age group of 21 to 31, are entrepreneurs and executives from various trades and businesses. The group’s aim is to network, promote entrepreneurship and develop leadership skills, said YEA president Vivek Anand Gajjala. It assists the members to succeed in business through leadership and training programmes. Several experienced industrialists and young entrepreneurs were present. Spotted at the launch were Avnish Kumar, Divya, Karthik, Kiran, Praveen Raju, Varun Reddy, Veena, Kiran and Madhu. Rakesh & Arpita
Rachana & Veena
Vivek, PVP & Karteesh Kiran
Praveen Raju
Karthik
Varun Reddy red | october 2014 | 98
Madhu
Divya
Kavitha
Bharat Sripriya & Adit
Vidhi & Rishi
Devander Surana & Yoganandh Bharath Shah, Nilanjan & Dheeraj
BNI HOSTS ANNUAL EVENT BNI hosted an annual event of its franchise BNI Capital at The Park Hyatt. Bharat Shah, the franchise owner of BNI Hyderabad West, hosted a business meet for more than 250 visitors. Members of the organization interacted with the prospective business providers about their work. Spotted were Aashika, Naresh, Navneet Agarwal, Nimmi, Nithin, Ronak, Sruti Mashru and Nishith Shah.
Vivek Khurana
Archana
Nimmi
Ali Asgar red | october 2014 | 99
HYDERABAD ARAAISH EXPO BIG DRAW Many socialites were spotted at Taj Krishna where Samia Alam Khan and Swathi Kilaru organised an exclusive exhibition, Araaish for the lovely ladies which showcased ensemble, jewellery and accessories of eminent designers from all over India. Araaish supports ‘save the children’ foundation which is committed to prevent exploitation and other forms of discrimination against children. It assists children with special needs to realize their potential. A collection of home accents and bags hand crafted by these children of ‘Save the Children’ was on display along with that of designers like Maheep Kapoor, Megha and Jigar, Suchitra, The Oak Tree and Valliyan by Nitya. Spotted at the expo were Rummy Azad, Gayathri Reddy, Deepthi Rajesh, Vinny Singh, Shagun, Shika, Pinky Reddy, Prasunna Reddy and Supriya. Swati & Samia Alam Khan Anvish & Neeru Kumar
Sumana,Lavanya & Haritha
Shwetha
Sarada, Gayatri & Sirisha
Ashita
Rummy Azad
Sanya Khan Fatima
Manjoor Alam Khan red | october 2014 | 100
Zahra Wajihuddin
Shruthi Malpani
Parvathi Reddy
Shalini Badruka
Pinky Reddy
Shreedevi Chowdary Rekha
Komal Jain
VIZAG
REVIEW
R
ise above the regular avours of coffee, as here comes your chance to experience the pure Irish coffee. Look no beyond Cappuccinoo, the newly opened café at Four Points by Sheraton. It introduces you to the typical western culture where the seating arrangement is an alfresco one and done by the poolside. Enjoy some munchies like sandwiches, cocktail samosa, mufns, puffs and burgers along with sipping in authentic Irish aromas in a laid-back setup. It is also open for birthday bashes, kitty parties, anniversary celebrations and can accommodate around 150 people in full capacity. But make your bookings beforehand. The interior or the main café area has an interesting décor with Hollywood themed grafti walls. The roof has handprints of 100 girls. One can have a billiard and a play-station session by paying hourly charges.
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Coffee by the Pool
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TIMINGS: 10 am-10 pm (MONDAY CLOSED)
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REVIEW
H
ere comes your store offering the best inner comforts. Jockey exclusive store gets its address on Waltair Uplands, beside GRT Jewellers. A franchise by J.Anitha Suresh, it is the rst-of-its-kind Jockey store in Vizag with open display. Besides lingerie and innerwear, one gets a complete range of Jockey products from sportswear, comfort wear and gym wear which are neatly arranged and displayed. For men and women it has separate trial rooms. Women’s lingerie section is pushed to the inner corner giving privacy. Ladies can also shop sports apparels, nightwear and a few capris, tights, three fourths, shorts, tees. It has a collection of shapewear also. It has a whole range of thermal wear and individual bottom and top wear too for both men and women. Men have gym vest, sleeveless vest, tracks, bermudas including inner-wear. However, kids have only inner garments and nightwear. It is running an inaugural offer of a complementary towel worth Rs.599 for every purchase of Rs.1,999.
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Just Jockey
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TIME: 10.00 am to 9.30 pm PH.NO: 0891 6666295
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5
Latest Food Destination
C
ity Grill is the latest food destination to hit Vizag’s ever growing socio-commercial landscape. Conveniently located in Waltair Uplands and opposite to Jos Alukkas, their signature product- SMOKE-GRILLED CHICKEN. It is the rst of its kind in the Indian fast food industry. It is cooked without any oil and hence appeals to the health-conscious consumers. The balance of spices in this unique dish denitely gets your taste buds salivating for more.
The restaurant has bright and lively interiors and can accommodate upto 42 patrons. It is an ideal location for birthday parties or any other celebrations. The brand is present in Bangalore and Chennai in a different avatar called “Starke’s Chicken”. The menu is quite exhaustive and includes- Fried Chicken, Burgers, Wraps, Sandwiches, Snacks and Mexican Rice. The choice of Burgers is very impressive with Lamb Burger and Fish Burger also being served alongside Smoke-grilled Chicken Burger and Tandoori Chicken Burger. The vegetarians also have ample options to choose from- Veg Burger, Aloo Burger, Veg Wrap, Veg Sandwich, Mexican Rice forming the core of them. The price is very reasonable and on a par with the experience and ambience that is in offer. The products range from Rs 39 to Rs.1199 and also include ice creams to satiate the sweet tooth cravings. So come on Vizagites! Go for Smoke-Grilled and get thrilled. Timings: 11.00 am to 11.00 pm | Ph: 0891- 6660009
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4.5
TREAT YOUR TEETH
‘
We save your smile’ reads the tagline and with the range of services it offers, you can be sure that your facial curve is safe here. We are talking about Dr. Satya’s Multispeciality Dental Care at Seethammadhara. A creation of dental surgeon and consultant orthodontist, Dr. D. Satya Vardhan (MDS. Orthodontics), this clinic is the completely renovated version of Rainbow Dental Clinic in the same place with latest and upgraded equipment. It has a lab, a consultation and a treatment room. From basic to advanced treatments, it handles every case with ease. Those who want braces can try its ceramic ones. It claims that any dental breakage can be addressed immediately and it is one of the best for orthodontic treatments. Besides general and preventive care services, it extends specialized treatments such as restorative, paediatric, gum treatment, scaling, root canal treatment, bleaching, dental jewellery tooth replacement (single, multiple and full set), complete denture to cosmetic, and implant dentistry, orthodontics, smile makeovers, full-mouth reconstruction and oral surgery, periodontics, prosthodontic treatment. It caters to every age group. Dr. Satya work s with a team of four specialists. It also handles emergency cases. It is equipped with Intraoral Periapical Radiograph (IOPA) which can x-ray individual tooth. To negate any cross infection, hygieine and sterilization are given topmost priorities. Each patient gets a fresh mouth mirror, which is not used for the next, unless it goes through stringent sterilization in the lab. The pricing is kept nominal, even the consultation fee is only Rs.100. Timings: 9.00 am to 1.00 pm & 4.00 pm to 9.30 pm (365 days) Ph.nos: 0891-2783336, 90109 33336
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red | october 2014 | 106
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5
BLOOMING FASHION
W
ell, who needs a reason not to buy, when the best of the designs are offered at unbelievably reasonable price? This is what exactly happens the moment one steps into Blossoms Boutique. The fashionistas who swear by their penchant for ethnic wear are aware of this name. Nevertheless, this is the second store and certainly has a lot more to offer.
This haute boutique, spread over 1,250 sft, reects the ne taste of the owners Sunil and Deepika. The white interiors, with arty touch of grey and gold motifs, make the ambience all the more inviting. There are three trial rooms and a washroom too. A wall guards this space, ensuring adequate privacy to the customers. Primarily with georgette and chiffon base, all the saris are designed and come with readymade fancy blouses. The price is between Rs.5,000 and Rs.15,000. Suits are the show stealers at Blossoms. It aunts latest trends like the lehenga pattern suits and sari suit. It has city’s best oor-length-anarkalis. Those who have a fetish for air, can check this store without fretting about the cost. It has dresses with as many as 70-80 kalis (pleats). Tunics are one of the must buys which are completely designer collection and are exclusive pieces. The lehengas are also pretty impressive and a few of them are single pieces with no repetition of design. Wish to look like the cine divas? Then, don’t miss the Bollywood replica lehengas, you won’t get them elsewhere in the city. You just have to pay between Rs.4,000 and Rs.9,000. There are un-stitched and semi-stitched cotton dress materials as well. Ladies you have something to buy for your home too. Have a glance at the cotton block print Rajasthani bedsheets that cost between Rs.500 and Rs.1200. There is also a collection of heavy bedspreads which come with stunning digital prints and priced between Rs.3,000 and Rs. 5,000. Timings: 10.30 am to 9.00 pm (365 days) | Ph.no.: 8106994449
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red | october 2014 | 108
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5
MOBILES AND MORE
F
or all mobiles and gadgets freaks, Mobicare is the ultimate destination to get the best deal. This brand has opened its third outlet on the ground oor of Chitralaya. Spread over 550 sft, the new store is not only bigger in size but dons a swankier look too. The white interiors and ample lighting make the ambience welcoming and the neatly displayed products add to the ease of the customers. This new facility too like its earlier branches, primarily deals with Apple products. The iPhone owners do check the dedicated counter for those high range back covers. Called iBacks these covers are made from the original material i.e. Aero Aluminium used for iPhone body. It gives double protection to the phone. It comes in multi-hues and designs and the price ranges from Rs.1,400 to Rs. 2,600. There is iCable too which can charge two iPhones or one phone and another iPad at a time. It has also an array of other smart phones from Blackberries, HTC, Sony, Lenovo and LG etc. the price of which ranges from Rs.4,400 to Rs.75,000. A number of mobile accessories like multiple mobile charger, portable mobile chargers, earphones, audio video cable, pen drives, headsets etc. from premium brands like Doss, JBL, Denon, Bose, Nitho, Jabra, Blue Ant, Skull Candy, Ducasso, Bluedio, Grifn, X-daria, Ego, Element Case, Softy etc. are available here. It is the rst one to bring the concept of Nano Screen Guard to the city. This technology guards the screen of any gadget like phones, iPads, laptops, camera lenses, tabs with liquid solution which has 9H hardness. The USP is the range of Apple products which are not even available in exclusive Apple stores. In brief it is the one-stop-shop for myriad options for 500+accessories. It also extends servicing for mobiles, tabs, laptops and iPads. Avail 50% discount on all branded accessories on every purchase of phone, besides the regular buyback and EMI offers. Timings: 10.00 am to 10.00 pm | Ph.no.: 0891-6446666
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red | october 2014 | 110
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HYDERABAD
REVIEW
N
ow there’s no need to fret over the distances one has to travel to pick the perfect wedding card. Raga, a boutique store for exclusive designer invitation cards, is now open on the oor above Sabya Sachi on Road No. 10, Banjara Hills. Apart from saving us a day of endless travel and trafc woes to General Bazaar, it offers an assortment of magnicent invitation cards for various occasions and even return gifts. Raga, which is in collaboration with elite designers all over India, is a one-stop shop for all gifting and invitation solutions spread over 1,000sft and it displays wedding invitations starting from Rs.60 onwards. Owners Rashmita and Shilpa established the rst franchisee model of ‘Gampa Bros’, offering exceptional customer service, quality and prompt delivery services.
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Music of Wedding Cards
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TIMINGS: 11.00 am to 8:00 pm (MONDAY TO SUNDAY) PH. NO.: + 91 7674934889
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or all those shopaholics and fashion savvy ladies who are always on hunt for fashionable apparels, here is a new destination. Srinivasa Textiles unveiled its second outlet which is spread over 7,000 sft, on Road No. 12, Banjara Hills. The range is wide with dress materials, saris, fusion lehengas, kids wear and textiles for men. This emporium instils the true spirit of festive shopping. You can choose from a plethora of Uppada, pattu, traditional and modern saris, and innumerable brands and products for kids. Shailaja, the CEO, says, “We intend to provide quality and unique designs at nominal prices.” Its remarkable services are worth a mention. Pure and imperial Paithani saris are one of the store’s featured items. They are irresistible for any silk fanatic. Their price ranges from Rs. 8,000 to Rs. 2,00,000 and you need not regret a dime spent on them.They have an in-house designer, who guides the confused shoppers. So grab your shopping carts and shop till you drop. 1
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Textile Treasure
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TIMINGS: 10.30 am to 9.00 pm Ph.No: 040-65969999
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ORDERS UP AT TABLA
F
or a serene and leisurely lunch/dinner with friends and family, one can head towards the famous Tabla without any second thoughts! This city’s favourite multi-cuisine ne-diner, opened yet another restaurant. Spread over 8,900 sft, this gigantic new branch offers the brand’s quintessential food stuff at RTC X Roads, near the popular Sandhya Theatre. Inaugurated recently by Md.Mohamood Ali, Mr.T.Rajaiah and other VIPs, this outlet offers delightful ne-dining menu options with phenomenal customer service. Adjoining the multi cuisine diner, is Thali Darbar, another division by Tabla which offers North and South Indian platters at reasonable rates. The interiors, done by Shankar Ahuja (The Lost Society fame) are modest and unpretentious with frames of musical instruments charmingly hanging on textured walls. The place accommodates about 150 people at its peak hours and is segmented to have private dining rooms and a conference hall. Be it kitty parties for the ladies, birthday parties for children, formal events for businesses or any rendezvous of 30 guests, one can comfortably book a place here. “We plan to start a banquet hall of 9,000 sft which can accommodate about 700 people by November, this way, we have an edge over the other Tabla restaurants,” said Mr. Swaroop Soma, the Director. This hall is an apt venue for weddings and receptions on a medium sized budget. If there is a perfect dining hub that offers alternative places for parties and multiple menu options, it is this Tabla. Must try dishes in appetizers are mouth watering goldcoin and majestic chicken and for main course, exquisite mutton roast and sambar-rice. The only endorsement for the restaurant is word-of-mouth which is naturally drawing food lovers. It is attracting good reviews. This franchisee speaks volumes of Tabla’s success in the twin cities. Being located on the main road, it is accessible to all the passersby on the Crossroads and has ample space for car parking. Valet service is an added advantage. Meal for two: Rs.600 to Rs.1000, Thali: Rs.160 to Rs.180 Timings: 11:00 am to 12:00 midnight | Ph.nos.: (+91) 40 66444234, (+91) 40 66888234, (+91) 8688623456
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FANTASTIC & FUNCTIONAL
I
f you are meditating on suave interiors for your kitchen that displays incredible engineering creating smooth one-touch drawers, sleek and glossy surfaces and high- class elegance, then SEA Bauformat is the place you ought to look at. Offering luxury kitchenette and wardrobe solutions, Seating World launched its new range of breathtaking designs with SEA (Solutions for Emerging Asian markets) Group from Germany. After years of Research and Development, Bauformat derived solutions for the Indian kitchen and wardrobes and has come up with a lot to offer to the city. Their modular kitchens have a mechanism that runs on electricity to operate the shutters and drawers. To help sustain the Indian power uctuations, it designed a simple button which conveniently reboots the system to function again. One such chic concept is a ‘climber’, where shutters break into panels and slides. This German company only uses premium hardware and offers corner and tall units for storage. It provides a life time warranty on the hardware to its customers. Every component of their smart kitchen and wardrobe is manufactured and imported from Germany which boasts of the integrity and the quality that the brand upholds. Spread over 4,300 sft, on the 1st oor of Seating World, Road No.12, Banjara Hills, the starting price for kitchens is Rs.4 lakh and that of wardrobes is Rs.2 lakh. The brand’s USP is its certied plywood, imported from Austria which is hot water proof. This means, even if the plywood is dipped in boiling water at 160 degrees, it remains unimpaired. Seating World has a remarkable clientele like Facebook, Aircel, Airtel and other MNCs. They have in-house designers and executives who cater to the customer’s requirements for immaculate interiors, be it luxury houses or corporate ofces. Timings: 10:00 am to 8:30 pm | Ph. nos.: Inder Nainani, +91 9959033488, +91 40 66368888
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EXCELLENT
V I Z A G
RAJU BRINGS RELIEF The Assembly, generally fraught with heated arguments, has been recording some hilarious moments of late, thanks to MLA Vishnu Kumar Raju. He ushered in some lighter moments making oblique references to girlfriends, liquor and bombs. While he said his peers were so innocent that they did not think of girlfriends even in their college days, today’s boys aunt them as their proud assets. Stating that Keralites observe Sunday as a non-liquor day, he said our people don’t consider even Oct.2 as a dry day. Vouching for coastal people’s innocence, he said, “I have not even seen a bomb till date.” His repartee earned him full ratings on all social networks. What takes the cake was his comment on the repeated YSRCP walkouts. He requested the Speaker to shift his seat because the vacant chairs were scaring him.
PRINCE IN A DARING MOOD It was just a few days back that the duo refuted all the rumours about their growing proximity, then appeared the buzz that the couple broke off. There is a change of scenario. It seems the duo has not only patched up, but also adopted a bolder approach to their bonding. Yes, we are talking about Prince and his girl, Deepika. Be it a party, an event launch or any hotspot, the couple is appearing together, posing for the shutterbugs, shedding inhibitions. Looks like, Prince has decided to be a hero in real life too, aunting ‘who cares about what the world says’ attitude. However, this has earned mixed reaction from his circles, while a few of his friends and well-wishers are eagerly waiting for the wedding bells to ring, the others are wondering if it is the right time for the young actor to tie the knot? Can he risk his career?
TIPSY BRAT SILENCED Money earned him mite and political linkage gave him clout. But as he guzzled heady liquids, he forgot his whereabouts. Wait, the reference is not to any incident in Mumbai or a lm star. It is a common belief that such things happen only in mega cities. But this incident happened near home and a noted businessman of the city was involved in it. He already has an image of a philanderer and aunts his moolah and political power. However, this time about he was in for a shock as his overtures were spurned. It was alleged that he, in an inebriated state, tried to cross the limits of decency. Scared of the clout he wields, the onlookers had no choice but to remain mute spectators as the lady was being harassed openly. His excesses didn’t stop there. He went on to pass derogatory remarks since she refused to bow to his whims. Ultimately, the lady herself took charge of the situation and snapped at him. Thus humiliated in public, he took to his heels. Isn’t it time that Mr. Powerful Rich Playboy mended his ways?
TOUGH TASK FOR AMAR Ever since he resigned from the TDP to join YSRCP, Gudivada Amarnath, son of Gudiwada Gurnatha Rao, has been given an important role to play in the new party. Despite the presence of senior leaders, the young and dynamic leader of sorts has been given the task of party’s responsibilities in the district and he is made the YSRCP city president. If sources are to be believed, the seniors are not cooperating with the much too young leader. Despite the fact that he failed miserably in the recent Lok Sabha elections, Amar is said to have been given the responsibility of the upcoming Mayoral elections. Party chief Jagan reposed trust in Amar and assigned him this Herculean task. It is time for Amar to prove his mettle and garner at least a few seats. People wonder whether he can rise like a ‘Phoenix’, and pull through at least in these local body polls or it is a just ‘Period’ for his political career.
H Y D E R A B A D
TOWERING VARUN TEJ Though his debut lm is yet to hit the silver screens, yet another upcoming hero Varun Tej from the Mega Family has become the talk of the Telugu Tinsel Town. The teaser of his debut lm that is going viral on Youtube, itself has whipped up tremendous response. It has elicited a lot of likes for his mega presence. If sources are to be believed, producers are already behind Nagababu to rope in his prodigy for their upcoming movies. This itself shows the potential of the hero. People feel Varun may outshine the other ‘brat pack’ from the mega family who obtained a foothold on the slippery ladder of the stardom. Everything seems to be going well for Varun. He only has to prove his acting skills. If he proves his mettle in this ‘department’, he would denitely bear the stamp of Mega Genre.
LOTUS TO BLOOM IN KIRAN’S HAND? People know N. Kiran Kumar Reddy not only as the last Chief Minister of the united Andhra Pradesh but also as the leader who desperately tried to stall the state bifurcation. Though his efforts were well appreciated, he went into oblivion after a humiliating drubbing of his party at the hustings. But it is learnt that Reddy is getting his act together again to make a comeback albeit through a different route. He has been using the good ofces of his friend and BJP Telangana Chief Kishan Reddy to send feelers to the higher-ups in the party. It is also said that Kishan is using the clout he has with the RSS to get Kiran into the BJP fold. Some seniors like Kavuri are all set to take the party affairs into their hands. Many disgruntled YSRCP men are also looking at BJP. If this trait continues, people feel that the lotus party, which hitherto has a marginal presence in the state, is likely to bloom.
TDP’S HERO AT CENTRE It is time politicians emulate Kambhampati Rammohan Rao, the special representative of Andhra Pradesh government at Centre. Refusing to burden the beleaguered AP state, Kambhampati has spent his own money for his London trip which is aimed at inviting global investors to the state. It is also learnt that he works day and night to rope in investors. The credit of bringing the rst major investment, Hero MotoCorp, to the state goes to him. He has been the dealer for the Hero in AP since 1986 and enjoys a good rapport with the company’s MD Pawan Kant. He could prevail upon the authorities concerned to set up the unit AP. With a reliable and pro-active aide at New Delhi, Chandrababu, the CEO CM, can have a good night’s sleep at least on one issue. In a nutshell Kambhampati has become the TDP’s power centre at the Centre.
HALF TRUTH IS WHOLE LIE Recently, the sting operation that busted the sex racket of the actor Shweta Basu Prasad is making headlines. The actress who is better known as the child artiste and won national award too, landed in body business. Many skeletons tumbled out of the cupboard and many big names were revealed. From top business tycoons, politicians, actors to bureaucrats were found to be part of this racket. Among those so-called head honchos there is one who managed to hush up his name. But as the saying goes ‘yeh public hai, yeh sab jaanti hai’; he couldn’t hide from the public’s eye. Adding to their anger is the biased behaviour of TV channels which are busy showing Shweta, without exposing this man, who is equally guilty of the crime. They expect the media to present all facts, as ‘a half truth is a whole lie’.
VIZAG
RAM RAJYA By Ranita Ray
Shoot by Dhana Vijay
H
e is just 28, but don’t go by his boyish looks. He is one of the youngest Members of Parliament in the 16th Lok Sabha. However, he stands in complete contrast to most of the young achievers, especially politicians. It was nothing but a bliss to meet a charismatic man. With a charming smile he greeted the team red. His humility was surprisingly touching. There was neither a convoy nor a beacon vehicle nor any special security as we headed for the shoot and interview. He travelled in his car just like any other common man. Our admiration for the leader kept rising as our interaction progressed. Neither he made any fuss for posing for our lensman nor did he lose his cool, answering our queries. There couldn’t be a better option than patient, polite and conversant Mr. Rammohan Naidu Kinjarapu, the Srikakulam MP, to gure in our special issue.
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FLASHBACK Born in a farmer's family in Nimmada of Srikakulam, his father Kinjarapu Yerran Naidu emerged as one of Andhra Pradesh's legendary politicians. A law degree holder from the Andhra University he entered politics in 1982 when he joined the Telugu Desam Party. A loyalist to the party, he was TDP’s most familiar face in the national arena. His popularity grew with each passing year. He was the four-time Member of Parliament and a member of Andhra Pradesh Assembly as many times. Highly knowledgeable Mr. Naidu was known for his bold measures to uproot many wrongs. With such legacy, certainly politics wasn’t outlandish to his son, Rammohan. However, he had no plans to join it, especially at such a young age. A product of Delhi Public School, RK Puram, Delhi, Ram left for US for further studies. There he obtained an engineering degree from the Purdue University. It was followed by an MBA degree from the Long Island University. With a plan to start his own venture relevant to agriculture, Ram landed in India. But destiny had its own plans. He lost his father in an unfortunate car mishap in 2012. On one hand, when the unexpected loss left the family and the followers shocked and shattered, on the other it also raised the questions- “Who would be the political heir of this great leader?” The vox populi unanimously chanted ‘Ram.’
ASSESSMENT When father ruled the regional politics for three glorious decades and the son is a fairly new entrant, the comparion is inevitable. “It is there in every moment, be it in my speech at a public meeting or dealing with people or suggesting a solution, I am always under an assessment with people drawing parallels- how he used to do it and how I am doing it.” He also adds that for him, he was just his dad, not a leader. Thus, he never paid attention to how his father worked in politics nor he got a chance to learn the political knowhow from him. Hence, he feels only people can be the real judges and evaluate them as leaders. However, he considers such comparison does only good to him. It’s a great honour to be juxtaposed with such a legend. His co-workers may be comparing him with his awe-inspiring father, but never do they compel him to accept their ideas. They guide him, giving him the due freedom. Since he is a young man with an international exposure, they welcome his proposals and fresh approaches.
“I bowed to the popular demand. Thanks to the enormous support of my family and my father’s followers I dared to take up this onerous responsibility,” explains Ram. IMPEDIMENTS He spent most of his life away from home and a major part in abroad pursuing education, which obviously kept him away from politics. The drastic and unexpected circumstances thrown him into a not only an unfamiliar but also a totally contrasting arena. Adapting to this new world was a challenge in itself. Though a novice, Ram could sail through and attributes his success to public backing, family motivation and encouragement from the TDP leaders he received right from the day one. “A special mention of our CM, Chandrababu Naidu sir, is a must. He has been the real guardian for me. When I lost my father, addressing him as a dear friend, he assured me that whatever choice I make as regards to my life and career, he would guide me through. When a man of his stature stands by you as your guiding force, whatelse does one need? It works as an amazing condence-booster for anyone and I am no exception. I took the plunge and I am here today. Yes, I lost my father, but I got introduced to a much bigger family.”
The new AP consists of 13 districts. This downsizing will enable us to concentrate better on each individual district.
OLD v/s NEW “People often feel when these two phenomena face each other, the result is a ‘conict’. However, I wouldn’t term it as a clash, but difference of opinions. It is quite natural, that veteran leaders with decades of experience and young ones with new outlook do not have the same perception about a subject. But let me tell you that even two seniors might also face a similar situation. If an individual makes an effort to understand other’s views and when there is mutual respect for each other’s opinions , it is easy to arrive at amicable solutions,” explains Ram.
In India for some reason, ‘politics’ is called a ‘dirty profession’, but it is not.
HIS VIEWS ON
I do feel that I am missing out on life. But I am not the one to sit back and worry.
POWER COMES WITH A PRICE It does, opines Ram. Recollecting his childhood days, he says, soon after his birth, his father became an MLA. Thus, from an early age, he was busy in politics. “As a son, I don’t remember any occasion when he took me in his lap or hugged me as I saw my friends’ fathers doing. I used to miss him badly, which I still do. Even when I was in the US, I used to talk to him only thrice or four times a year, during our birthdays, Diwali or Pongal. My sister and I grew more dependent on our mother, while the public on him. He was engrossed in the service of his people. However, we used to keep hearing accolades about him and his greatness as a leader. Naturally, it was nice to hear and we used to feel proud of him. Similarly, the respect we used to get or still receive as his family is just beyond words. As a family, whatever we sacriced, such respect compensated for it. We realized he was serving for a greater purpose,” states Ram. Although, marriage is not on his cards now, young Ram tries to strike a balance in his personal and professional life. On a candid note he says, “Looking at my friends engaged in age-relavant activities, I do feel that I am missing out on life. But I am not the one to sit back and worry.” He does try to take time to go back to his old lifestyle and spend time with his huge friend circle.
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COMBINATION: YOUTH AND POLITICS “Before I entered politics, as any other young man, I came across a lot of discussions, especially in the last one decade that a change has to come in the Indian political scenario. When I got the opportunity, I thought I could set an example. By being in the eld, I can motivate and inspire others. If it needs a transformation, we have to start somewhere. It is easier to talk as a passive watcher than work as an active performer. Youth has tremendous power to bring in a change and their participation plays a vital role. If I would have stepped back, I wouldn’t have been able to prove my point. Now in our country we have pro-youth senior leaders like Narendra Modi and Chandrababu Naidu. We got the right leaders at the right levels, so it is the right time. And I am trying to contribute as much as possible towards encouraging youth to get into politics. The idea is to involve them at every step of democracy. During the elections, I tried to mobilise people to vote and the voting percentage did increase. Certainly it is a good sign for future India.” STATE BIFURCATION “Since it has been over, now both the states should go ahead with a positive attitude rather than look back with regret. As I was born in the integrated state, I was depressed with the bifurcation. The way the separation was done was even more upsetting. It wasn’t done evenly and even now new problems are arising for both states. But now instead of ghting with each other, we should take this opportunity to be the best states in the country.” Describing it as a boon in disguise, he explains, “The united state had 23 districts. The new AP consists of 13 districts. This downsizing will enable us to concentrate better on each individual district. Earlier the entire focus was on Hyderabad, which became the epicenter of all the development. We had to pay the price for it. A wise approach should be capitalizing the strength of each district and working on its weaknesses. Citing an example, he says, Srikakulam district has two ports, a great coastline; thus one should make use of them.”
A LEAF OUT OF HIS DIARY
7:00 am- Wake up 8.00 am- Read newspaper or watch news and have breakfast 9.00 am- Public time. Since it’s a huge constituency we have visitors coming as far as from 200 km. They need patient hearing. At times I also go to the rural areas to know the issues they are facing. I try to meet as many people as possible in a day. Once we are in public, we lose track of time and my day continues till 10.00 p.m. I keep touring all over the country, but those are purely work related. Thus, if I have free time, I like to travel and go on adventure or leisure trips. I remember before joining politics, I used to watch two movies a week, but now I have seen hardly 4-5 movies in last two years. I try to keep one of my passions alive, i.e. photography. Thus, my camera travels with me during my visits to my constituency.
FAVOURITES Brands: Not brand conscious Colour: Blue Food: I have least liking for South Indian cuisine. I like to try new cuisines Holiday Spot:I enjoy travelling. Beaches and historical places fascinate me Movie: Godfather Actor: Aamir Khan, Jr NTR Actress: Many of them Books: I love reading and have a special liking to ction novels. Car: BMW Passion: Listening to music and sports, I love playing cricket
Yes, I lost my father, but I got introduced to a much bigger family.
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HYDERABAD
VERY VERY SPECIAL LAXMAN By Sumana Reddy
Shoot by Dinakar Pamu
N
o wonder great cricketer Ian Chappell described him as Very Very Special Laxman, for this young man from Hyderabad has amply proved that he is special. The star of Inidan cricket Galaxy who earned the ‘special’ sobriquet is Vangipurapu Venkata Sai Laxman. After a glorious innings in cricket, Laxman hanged his boots, but his exploits on the field are much talked of among the cricket lovers across the world. He left the field victorious, satisfied and after amassing thunderous worldwide applause and prestigious national awards like Arjuna, Padma Shri.
We all love him and are proud of him for the batsman he is. Being a perfectionist, he intensely played matches only to make name for the country but not to improve his own statistics. He now aims to establish an academy, which not only focuses on sports, but also on education, to help students become good citizens. His aspirations are often inspired by his parents, whom he holds in high esteem and to whom he dedicates his success. Laxman talks of his extraordinary run from galli cricket to international cricket and shares some awe-inspiring experiences with us.
Excerpts Early life I was born in Hyderabad on 1st Nov1974. My father Dr. Shantaram is a Cardiologist and General Physician and mother Dr. Satyabhama, a radiologist. I did my schooling from Little Flower High School which is popular for its academics. I pursued BiPC in intermediate from St. Mary’s junior college and went to Wesley Degree College for graduation. Doctor Dreams I loved cricket like any other kid in India. I used to play it with my brother and friends in the neighbourhood, but more frequently with my maternal uncle Mr. Baba Krishna Mohan, who was a cricket player himself at the club level. My brother and I used to land in his house on Sundays to play the game. This may surprise many - though I was very passionate about cricket, I never contemplated taking it up as a profession. I always wanted to be a doctor, as I see it as the noblest of all professions. I was greatly inspired by the way my parents treated their patients. I heard people narrating some commendable stories of my parents saving their kith and kin. Moreover, science was my favourite subject. I ranked rst in the state for my tenth boards in science. However, it was my uncle who spotted talent in me and convinced my parents and me that cricket was the right eld for me, if I pursued it as a career. Luckily for me, my parents gave me the freedom to choose. I made my under nineteen debut for India, after which my seniors and coaches afrmed that I had a bright future in cricket. So, we made a pact to play cricket for ve years, in an attempt to realise my dream of playing for the country. Had I not played for the country, I would not have been emotionally attached to it and would have given up. Perhaps, I would have written EAMCET to pursue my other ambition of becoming a doctor. That also requires a lot of dedication and commitment as one would be dealing with the lives of people. But thankfully, at the age of 22, I played for India. Lost Teenage As I’m meticulous in everything that I do, I put my heart and soul into the game. From age 17 to 22, there was nothing else in my life but cricket. I was totally committed to it with my life revolving around training, thinking and talking about the game. This was the turning point in my life. Perhaps that was why I could not lead a normal teenager’s life. A lot of my friends enjoyed their college days and say that it was the best time of their life. Anyway my hard work and commitment did earn me rewards. Some of my friends who were equally talented in the game could not pursue it as a profession as their parents restricted them. I was one of the few fortunate aspirants. That is how the hobby turned into my profession. I lived my dream of playing for India for almost 16 years. All through my career, I remembered what my parents taught me that I should glorify cricket but not the other way round.
Challenges In India cricket is almost like a religion. Besides throwing up challenges the game teaches you a number of life’s lessons. I have become a better person and am able to handle situations smartly. In sports, you put in a lot of hard work but sometimes results don’t go your way, whereas in academics, results are directly proportional to your performance. In cricket a number of factors play. As cricket has a team of 11 players and 15 squad members, there is a lot of talent and a stiff competition even within. By the time a sportsperson reaches mid 30s, he would have experienced a lot more than a layman of his age. I always joke with my friends that the cricketer’s mind is three times more matured than the others. In fact, the cricketer retires from the game at the age when the doctor starts his career. A cricketer experiences everything in a short span of ten to 15 years. In Public Glare Your life becomes an open book. Everyone sees your performance, comments on what you do and scrutinizes you. With so much of public attention, either you become a better person or you lose yourself because handling success is as tough as handling failures. All of this is not taught to you. You have to learn on your own. Things can be rather tough. Many times I was dropped from the team. Therefore, I had to play 1st class level, score well and then claw my way back into the team.
One can call him the perfect son, perfect father and almost perfect husband!
My wife was almost a single parent to my kids when I was actively playing. Yet, she never grumbled about the little time that I spent with them.
Once you taste the tang of playing for India, you always want to be there. This is at once a huge accomplishment and responsibility. Yet you always want to be part of it. I was lucky that I was guided by my parents, uncle, coaches and well wishers as there were a lot of my contemporaries, who lost their way after getting dropped from the team. Although I could not ascertain my place for four years (from 1996 to 2000), I always focused on the positive aspects, without brooding over the negative ones. After I reached my goal, I stuck to my post. My performance spoke for itself. Family Life Takes a Backseat One major challenge I faced was sacricing family life, especially after being married and becoming a parent. I lived out of a suitcase for months together. But when you are representing the country, these sacrices look trivial. Just like the case with Army Jawans and Navy Personnel who passionately protect the country. I’m always inspired by them, as they valiantly safeguard our borders, sacricing their personal life. On Personal and Professional Fronts I could not strike a balance between them at all. I could do only one tenth of what I was supposed to do for the family. But whenever I had an opportunity, I spent time with family, which is my strength. My wife, Shailaja had taken charge of the kids Sarvajit (7) and Achintya (5). During their initial years she was not only a mother but also a father to them. I regret missing out on the rst ve years of my children. Team Spirit I miss the camaraderie we shared, be it at international level or state or even at the club level. I don’t really miss playing cricket but the challenges we faced and the battles we had fought together. Retirement I’m very pleased with my career. The day I announced my retirement, I was content and had no regrets whatsoever. I learnt about Micheal Jordan’s retirement when I read a book written by Phill Jackson, a former coach of the Chicago Bulls team. He said, when you are actively playing a sport, it becomes your life. You ought to offer your best so that you don’t regret later. Now I want to help the aspiring youngsters to become good cricketers by educating them about the sport as well as by sharing my experiences. This is how I want to be associated with the game.
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Best Achievement Representing India in 134 Test matches is my triumph. My father always said that he and my mother served the country using stethoscopes and I a cricket bat. I always strived to contribute to India’s success but never played game for statistics and personal scores. I am delighted with my accomplishment.
Politics Like cricketers, politicians have a great opportunity to serve the nation, I reckon. The emotional connect of the nation with the game is such that it uctuates with the performance of Indian team. If it does well, entire nation is in high spirits. Or else, it gets gloomy. Politicians too have the same bond with the common man’s emotions. Of course, they also have additional power to transform the country. I am not sure if I will enter politics. Present Engagement Since I cut down on travel drastically, I am able to pursue other passions, which is to establish a school. Education coupled with extracurricular activities and sports, is the right package to help the student turn into a good citizen. I’m planning to start my sports academy by the end of summer next year. My wife runs a play school and I give her support. I am also a part of Sun Risers Hyderabad team. I give a lot of corporate and motivational talks. At the age 38, I have the luxury of choosing what I want to do. Inspiration I get inspired by people who perform even when they are out of their comfort zone. It is very easy to get into the groove of comfort once you are successful or make enough money to lead a luxurious life. Then you stop challenging yourself. Even today, my father keeps himself occupied with small chores around the house and my mother continues to administer the house in the same way she did before though they can put up their feet and spend time with their children and grandchildren. They are my inspiration. All gamechangers and trendsetters inspire me. Without getting stagnant, people should continue to aspire and improve themselves. Success Mantra To know what you want from your life is very important. Though I wanted to be a doctor I became a cricketer. It was a tough decision to make. But from the moment I took the decision, there was nothing else in my life but cricket. You should know how you want to see yourself 15 years hence. Once you know what you want to accomplish, you should have a roadmap. Once your short term goals are achieved, the long term goals are automatically taken care of. There is no substitute for hard work, dedication and discipline. Ultimately, all of us should leave a good legacy behind. Advice to Aspirants Follow the mantra I advocate. Cricket is a glamorous and ardently followed sport. People who make it to the top always have a bumpy ride. One encounters tough situations. What the youth and parents see is only the success of a cricketer which is showcased in the media. They get carried away. One should step in knowing that it is no bed of roses and that only one out of hundred makes it to the top. One has to be steadfast and committed as there is no shortcut to the top. Uniqueness It is very difcult for me to say. You have to pose this question to my contemporaries! Family My kids, Sarvajit and Achintya are fun loving and want to do outdoor activities. They are into dancing, singing and painting.
I never impose any restrictions on them. Both are very athletic. They learn all the sports. I drop and pick them up from the school bus point and I simply savour such small pleasures. Sign off Be honest in your relationships and if possible, help people. If you are not able to help, at least do not discourage them. Initially, a lot of people were negative towards me as they themselves could not excel in cricket. I don’t like such people. One has to be positive and give others an opportunity to realise their potential. When you are honest people are bound to trust and listen to you. A LEAF OUT OF HIS DIARY 6:00 am: Wake up 6:30 am: Yoga and drop my kids to their school bus stop by 9:30 am and reach ofce 3:30 pm: Back home and spend time with kids when I’m free. 6:00 pm: The gym time I plan my day as per my convenience. When I’m at home, I’m relaxed and do what I love. I end my day with good read of a book, depending on how active my kids are. (Laughs)
My parents always taught me that I should glorify cricket but not the other way round.
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COMPATIBILITY METER
The day I announced my retirement, I was content and had no regrets whatsoever.
SHAILAJA IS VERY UNDERSTANDING: LAXMAN I’m very fortunate to have a wife like Shailaja. She has all the qualities I ever wanted in my partner and we are likeminded in many ways. I give credit to her parents and her upbringing. They inculcated a lot of values in her which enhance her persona. As both of us believe in same principles and values, we are very compatible. She knew how passionate I was about the game and how I aspired to serve the country. This was very important for me as she allowed me to play with a free mind. Although she was almost a single parent to my kids when I was actively playing, she never grumbled about the little time that I spent with them. I admit proudly that she nurtured my kids with utmost love and care and I’m very blessed to be married to her. Although she knows that she is the wife of a celebrity, she never behaves like one. This simplicity is rubbing off on my kids too. She doesn’t bring them up as the kids of an international cricketer. THESE ARE A FEW OF HER FAVOURITES Food: Thai Colour: Orange Outt: Chudidaar suit Brand: She is not a brand person and I’m very fortunate for it! Car: Ferrari Movie: Kaho Na Pyaar Hain Actor: Hrithik Roshan Hobbies: Gardening, painting. Holiday Destination: Switzerland and Dubai LAXMAN IN REALITY IS RAM: SAILAJA Laxman is a down-to-earth person. He likes spending a lot of time with family. One can call him the perfect son, perfect father and almost a perfect husband! (laughs) When I was carrying my daughter, he gave me a surprise party on my birthday, which has remained as a memory for lifetime. Both of us enjoy travelling with kids. Our last trip was to Dubai where the kids frolicked at Ferrari World. Laxman bestows incredible care and respect on his parents. I want my kids to inherit this exemplary trait. If I continue to talk about him, the chat will never end! THESE ARE A FEW OF HIS FAVOURITES Food: Thai Color: Black Outfit: Jeans and a T-shirt Brand: Boss and Versace Actor: Amitabh Bachchan Movie: All Amitabh Bachchan’s movies Hobby: Listening to music, reading Holiday Destination: Switzerland and Australia
A Y I R SU E H T ANDER SIK red | october 2014 | 132
B
e it a tough cop, a rustic youth or an unconventional handicap, he gets under the skin of any character. Thanks to his successive hits, Suriya has become the most sought after star in Tamil film industry. Success did not come to him easily. After almost half-a-decade wait, he tasted success, thanks to director Bala's Nandha in which he played an angry young man’s role. After that he did not look back. His successive hits like Kaakha Kaakha, Pithamagan, Peralagan took him to dizzy heights. He had the audiences in a frenzied state as Sanjay Ramaswamy in Ghajini. Born and brought up in Tamil Nadu, Suriya endeared himself to the audiences of different languages. The swashbuckling hero, who can manage to keep both mass and class happy, was listed #33 in Forbes India's ‘Celebrity 100 List’ for 2013. Here are some of his thoughts on becoming a popular hero and his future commitments.
Shoot by G.Venket Ram
Tell us about your foray into tinsel town. Though I had a sound knowledge of films due to my father and veteran actor Sivakumar, I had no plans to step into the film industry. Many may not know that I spurned an offer in the lead role by Vasanth in his film Aasai in1995. But when I decided to act, my friends were completely astonished. They could not believe that I was going to make my debut in Tamil. It seems you were into garment business. What made you give it up? I was a merchandizing manager in a garment factory and my first salary was Rs.1,000. Directors Mani Rathnam Sir and Vasanth Sir called me for a photo shoot for the film Nerukku Ner. When I was offered the role I eventually left my job. Tell us about your first film. My debut film Nerrukku Ner was released in 1997. The film was directed by Vasanth and I teamed up with my college mate and actor Vijay and actress Simran. Your father Sivakumar is an established actor. Has it helped you to reach stardom? Had it been so, I would have attained the stardom in the initial stage of career itself. Yours is a family of four actors, though Jyothika gave up acting. Do you feel your brother Karthee a threat to your career? In fact I don’t feel anyone is a threat to me in the industry as long as I perform well to the satisfaction of my directors and of course my audience. When can we expect all of you in one film? If any producer were dare enough to rope in all of us we will definitely act together in one film. You stole the hearts of Telugu audience with your performances right from Ghajini. How do you feel? I feel elated that my films are well received and earned me a considerable fan following in the united states of A.P. Do you think Ghajini is a turning point in your career? Though Ghajini brought me nationwide
recognition besides lots of accolades, the actual watershed in my career was Vaaranam Aayiram (in Telugu, Suriya s/o Krishnan), a romantic drama written and directed by Gautham Menon. The film had me in dual role and Sameera Reddy and Divya Spandana played the leading ladies. The film fetched me many awards including the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Tamil. The film was also a commercial success, eventually becoming the biggest hit in my career then. How did you feel when your roles in films like Ghajini and Singham were reprised by Aamir Khan and Ajay Devagn in Hindi? Don’t you think it gives a great feeling for an actor to know that his seniors in the film industry reprise the roles enacted by him/her in the original. Apart from Tamil are you into any other language films? Hindi. I acted in Ram Gopal Varma’s Rakta Charitra that was dubbed into Telugu with the same title. What are your upcoming films? Masss Tell us about your tryst with Telugu tinsel town. Though there are no direct Telugu films, many of my blockbusters had been dubbed into Telugu and most of them earned me rave reviews and were box-office hits. Any plans to act in a direct Telugu movie? If I get an offer with good script and storyline I will definitely act in Telugu movies. Tell us about the organisation Agaram Foundation It is an organization working towards helping the under-privileged in attaining their right to knowledge and quality education. Agaram provides a platform for better learning, a podium to brighten their tomorrow and give them the best in their pursuit of happiness by transforming their dreams to reality. After tasting success in films you made telly debut with Neengalum Vellalam Oru Kodi on Star Vijay.
Your comment. It gave me an opportunity to reach to more number of people even in remote places. In a span of 17 years you became most sought after hero and reached stardom. What is the secret behind your success? Success has not come to me easily. I had to struggle for it. All my failures were the stepping stones to my success. I pick my characters after a lot of thought and I observe a lot to give justice to my roles. I never hurry my movies. Hard work, patience and practice helped me reach the stardom. Which films you prefer to act in– action/comedy/social dramas? Any actor would give importance to the role that has scope of more performance. For me more important is my audience for which I need to focus on meatier roles that make me endear to them. Apart from acting you are into commercials and you are the brand ambassador for TVS Motors, Aircel et al. Your comment. Since we, the actors, hog the limelight, companies might feel that it is easier for them to disseminate their products through us and rope in us for the same. I felt happy for being part of their publicity. What are the criteria you consider for selecting a role? First of all I should like the character I am asked to play. I would like to play ‘strong’ characters that would make me etched on the minds of the audience even after they leave the theatres. Do you feel TV channels a threat to the survival of cinema? Not at all. Though people watch the TVs for soaps, they prefer watching movies, especially the new ones, only on big screens where they can enjoy the digital effects of the film. What is the change you want to see in the society? Cent per cent literacy rate and complete eradication of poverty. Who is your guiding force in the family? Who else? It’s my dad, the hero of the yesteryears and my mother.
SNAP SHOTS Your favourite actor Late MGR, Kamala Haasan and Aamir Khan Your favourite actresses Revathy, Sridevi and Jayapradha. Your favourite director Gautham Menon Best friend in cine industry Vikram Favourite singer Karthik Favourite music director Ilayaraja Favourite colour Black and white Your mentor Raghuvaran Favourite co-artistes Laila and Jyothika Favourite food Dosa, curd rice, prawn Favourite games Chess, bowling, shooting Hobbies Watching movies with friends and driving Favourite pastime Driving in my car with music and camping overnight Traits you like in people Forthrightness. I like people who call a spade a spade. Your role model Arnold Schwarzenegger Your favourite car Audi Q7 Favourite movie All MGR movies
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Tell us about your foray into tinsel town. Though I had a sound knowledge of films due to my father and veteran actor Sivakumar, I had no plans to step into the film industry. Many may not know that I spurned an offer in the lead role by Vasanth in his film Aasai in1995. But when I decided to act, my friends were completely astonished. They could not believe that I was going to make my debut in Tamil. It seems you were into garment business. What made you give it up? I was a merchandizing manager in a garment factory and my first salary was Rs.1,000. Directors Mani Rathnam Sir and Vasanth Sir called me for a photo shoot for the film Nerukku Ner. When I was offered the role I eventually left my job. Tell us about your first film. My debut film Nerrukku Ner was released in 1997. The film was directed by Vasanth and I teamed up with my college mate and actor Vijay and actress Simran.
Your father Sivakumar is an established actor. Has it helped you to reach stardom? Had it been so, I would have attained the stardom in the initial stage of career itself. Yours is a family of four actors, though Jyothika gave up acting. Do you feel your brother Karthee a threat to your career? In fact I don’t feel anyone is a threat to me in the industry as long as I perform well to the satisfaction of my directors and of course my audience. When can we expect all of you in one film? If any producer were dare enough to rope in all of us we will definitely act together in one film. You stole the hearts of Telugu audience with your performances right from Ghajini. How do you feel? I feel elated that my films are well received and earned me a considerable
fan following in the united states of A.P. Do you think Ghajini is a turning point in your career? Though Ghajini brought me nationwide recognition besides lots of accolades, the actual watershed in my career was Vaaranam Aayiram (in Telugu, Suriya s/o Krishnan), a romantic drama written and directed by Gautham Menon. The film had me in dual role and Sameera Reddy and Divya Spandana played the leading ladies. The film fetched me many awards including the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Tamil. The film
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HOLLYWOOD MASALA
Jennifer- Chris Bond Heating Up Just because Jennifer Lawrence and Chris Martin aren’t together all the time doesn’t mean their relationship isn’t heating up! It is learnt that the duo are enjoying quiet, romantic dates at Chris’ home. They are showing no signs of slowing down! It looks like JLaw and Chris are still going strong. The Coldplay frontman and his wife Gwyneth Paltrow announced the end of their 10-year marriage this March. Even, Lawrence broke up with boyfriend Nicholas Hoult midway through the summer. Their state of ‘singleton’ brought them close to each other. Even the 13 year age gap between the couple seems immaterial, as if to be believed an eyewitness, the duo went incognito for a recent supper together at the Chateau Marmont in West Hollywood, and almost made out at the table.
Justin-Selena Reunited Justin Bieber, 20 and Selena Gomez, 22 proved that they are inseparable! The newly reunited couple were spotted ‘kissing and flirting with each other’ at Lucky Strike LA Live recently! The couple is back and better than ever! Before that they are said to have spent the weekend in Las Vegas, where they attended a Floyd Mayweather fight, and stayed in a $12,000-a-night penthouse at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. If sources are to be believed the couple were on a flight – perhaps heading back to Canada, where they rekindled their romance with horseback ride outings and candid photo shoots on ATVs.
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BOLLYWOOD MASALA Row Over Cleavage Looks like the row over the ‘cleavage tweet’ that actress Deepika Padukone took an ugly turn. A few days after a pert non-apology on Twitter saying that the actress ought to consider it a ‘compliment', the daily that carried the offending photo has launched a second defence, asking why the rules are different for male and female celebs. When we don’t go into a hostile frenzy when cameras caress and capture SRK's and Hrithik's perfect six-pack abs, why should it be different for a woman? If admiring and focussing on a woman's assets is a crime, all item numbers should be banned. How fair is it to say, “I will dress to tantalise publicly, but you have to look the other way?” To Deepika’s accusation that the photo was taken without her permission, the daily says: “It is really silly to say, "Why did you notice and focus on what I flaunted?"
Aamir’s Poster Kicks Up Row Ever since Aamir Khan’s nude PK poster going viral it is kicking up rows. When the poster looked strikingly similar to that of Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight, his fans said there are no resemblances at all. A few felt that the actor was perhaps inspired by the Batman movie. His still with a stereo system covering his modesty is seen as not-so-original. Similar looking poster was released in 1973 by a Portuguese musician Quim Barreiros to promote his album. In that still, Quim was standing naked with a musical instrument covering his manhood. Even Hrithik Roshan took a jibe on Aamir’s controversial nude PK poster. He said, “The number of times Aamir has shed his clothes is unmatchable, I can’t match those numbers but I wish I could.”
TOLLYWOOD MASALA ‘Baahubali’ Swansong For Anushka? If sources are to be believed, Anushka Shetty is leaving many young hearts disappointed. Putting a full stop to her reel life sizzling, the Mangalore-based actress wants to dazzle in her real life as a doting wife. While shooting for 'Lingaa' with Rajinikanth an aspiring director narrated a female-oriented story to her. Though she liked the script, she tendered an apology to the young director. The reason, it is learnt, she doesn't want to work in films any more as she is entering the wedlock once she wraps up shooting of 'Baahubali'. According to sources she will be tying the knot with a businessman, who is not known to industry, and the couple might settle down in US after their marriage.
Rana To Romance Sunny Leone Our gutsy hero Rana Daggubati is all set to romance the former porn star Sunny Leone in ‘One Night Stand’. While almost all the heirs-apparent of Telugu industry biggies are trying their luck with lead-roles, Rana seems to be taking a different route. He plays a negative role in 'Baahubali', a character artiste for Ajith's ‘Arambham’ and second lead for RGV's ‘Department’ before gearing up for a cameo in Akshay Kumar's upcoming 'Baby'. It is learnt, impressed by the script, Rana agreed the 'One Night Stand' role. The film is about a girl next door, played by Sunny Leone, whose life gets an emotional twist after she shares a night full of romance with neighbour Rana.
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Ar Nosurge: Ode to an Unborn Star Ar nosurge, full name Surge Concerto: Ar nosurge ~A Song that Prays for a Planet Being Born is a 2014 role-playing video game for the PlayStation 3 developed by Gust. It is a continuation of Ciel nosurge released in 2012, and also a prequel to the Ar tonelico series. The game is slated for release in the last week of Sept 2014, under the title Ar nosurge: Ode to an Unborn Star. This new collection of art shows off the game’s impressive vistas. The science-fiction turn-based RPG follows two sets of two protagonists as they explore the universe in their journey to save Earth. A story of love, emotional bonds and the frailty of existence, the new game emphasizes intersecting storylines, character relationships and dynamic combat, in a sci-fi/fantasy world where music creates magic. Players follow two pairs of characters: Delta and Casty, a duo protecting humanity after they lost their home planet, and Ion & Earthes, who are both trying to find their way home to Earth. Along with the ability to combine the two disparate storylines, players can also synthesize items for the groups to use in combat.
books The Assassination of Margaret Thatcher: Stories One of the most accomplished, acclaimed, and garlanded writers, and the two time winner of the Man Booker Prize, Hilary Mantel explores life in modern England through a series of short stories that touch on family, sex, gender, class...and vampires. Short stories are a great way to sample this much-talked about author’s work. His latest book The Assassination of Margaret Thatcher, is a testimony to his trademark gifts of penetrating characterization, unsparing eye and rascal intelligence that are once again fully on display.Cutting to the core of human experience, the author brutally and acutely writes about marriage, class, family, and sex. Unpredictable, diverse, and sometimes shocking, The Assassination of Margaret Thatcher displays a magnificent writer at the peak of her powers. Expected release on 30 Sept 2014
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egativity is the enemy of creativity, they say. But the artiste who creates negativity is called the real actor and many stars established this fact over and over again. Vikramjeet is one of them who proved to be really good as bad boy. Like many of his ilk, Vikram too used the ramp as the diving board to take the plunge into reel pool. Vikramjeet was born on the 19th of July 1984 in Village-Tharwa Majra, Karnal District. Hailing from a non-filmy family with his mother Harjinder Kaur Virk a housewife and father Sukhwant Singh Virk a farmer, Vikram came a long way exploring a world unknown to him. He talks how he strayed into a totally unfamiliar ground and yet proved his mettle with courage and confidence, not too easy to find in people who are experimenting with their lives.
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When and how was your glam debut? I started as a model with Lakme India Fashion Week in 2003 and went through the natural sequence of Fashion, TVC, Photo shoot and Music Videos and ultimately landed in Bollywood. It was Ashutosh Gowariker who heartily played with my acting skills choosing me for a negative role in ‘Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey’ What is your most daring stunt? My second assignment was equally attractive if not more. I had the rare honour and opportunity of acting with the South Indian Super Star Mohanlal, in the movie ‘Casanova’. It was directed by Mr. Roshan Andrews. I once again played a negative role. My performance, especially the 30 floor jump, in the film was applauded. That earned me the action hero tag too. This was followed by the most infamous character ‘Aamir Mehmood Ghaznavi’ for Zee TV. The show was a primetime hit reaching to thousands of households all over the world. Incidentally that was the role for which I got a best actor award. Is the negativity all about reel or real? On the contrary I
VERY GOOD
BAD BOY am disciplined, deeply religious and value relationships. Most importantly, I am a very positive person and eager to help anyone who is in need. Recall an incident that remains etched on your mind. It happened on the sets of Z TV’s Shobha Somnath Ki in which I played Mahmud Ghaznavi. I was supposed to step into the water pond on horse. But after I completed the fight scene, the horse and me both lost control and fell down into the water. I was literally under the horse for a few seconds. Whom do you admire in the film world? Sunny Deol, Chris Hemsworth, Madhuri Dixit and Deepika Padukone, these are a few of my favourite stars.
What is in the pipeline? What is your dream role? Rudrama Devi being directed by Gunasekhar. Thor (super hero) and the role Gerard Butler played in ‘300’. How do you keep fit? I keep a regular regimen. I wake up at 6:00 am. Go for jogging at the beach and then work out at the gym. If I get time or get free early from shoot I play cricket and come back home. Eat, read books and sleep. What is your health menu? I am an out and out son of the soil and savour my mother’s Aloo- Gobhi and ‘Sarso da Saag’ What drives you crazy? Bicycle and Audi
VIZAG
eve
POONAM,
THE PIONEER
By V. Sarada n impressive array of masks (collected during her extensive world tours, I was told) adorns the long stretch of her living room wall. However, the lady, with a penchant for masks, doesn’t herself wear one in her multifaceted life. She is absolutely forthright in her talk and demeanour. That is Poonam Shah Srinath, Founder-Correspondent, Teeny-Boppers, Chair-National Women Initiative, CII-YI and Past Chair-CII-YI, Vizag Chapter. While she can make her presence felt in any forum with her immaculate dress sense, she can also win over innumerable hearts with her impeccable oratory skills. Myriad colours are what inspire Poonam in envisaging any creative task. “Any programme I craft, whether it is for my school children or a social event, is based on and embellished with vibrant colours. Such is my passion. I simply cannot survive without them,” says Poonam.
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Shoot by Dhana Vijay
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While some people go far and wide in their quest of success, there are a few who create a world of success around themselves wherever they are. Poonam, who belongs to the latter genre, comes up with a ready explanation, “It is not the circumstances but our disposition that determines our destiny.” Edu-preneur, style icon and social activistPoonam, who has been making signicant contribution to the eld of early childhood education, care and development, displays her own impressive progress card. Understandably, Teeny-Boppers playschool, the project close to her heart, dominates the tete-e-tete. FIRST, BUT BIG STEP “Be the change that you wish to see in the world,” is an oft-quoted saying of Mahatma Gandhi. That is exactly what Poonam emulated when she felt a compelling need to upgrade the playschool concept in Vizag. Tracing the genesis of the playschool, she says, “I went on a hunt for a playschool for my daughter Taruni in 2001 and chose one in the East Point Colony which incidentally and instantly offered me a job. While I was working as a teacher there, I discovered the yawning gap between demand and supply in this eld. With a swell in the number of nuclear families, playschools were becoming vital for young parents who expect home-like care for their children. The existing facilities were without proper infrastructure, quality and curriculum. As I was pondering over these issues, a few friends and my family members suggested that I should myself open a facility with a high-quality quotient in early learning concepts. It fell in beautifully with my personal life goals as I always deeply nursed a dream that I should be on my own, running a meaningful and useful enterprise.” INITIAL TODDLE Stressing that her step was rm right from the beginning, Poonam, with a condent smile, says, “Anything coming from me has to be the very best. Period. I am not unduly apologetic for the price I quote for the facilities that I offer. I set my goals high and give the customers their money’s worth. I acquired a building tucked away in Harbour Park Road on lease. In 2003 I turned the weary-looking building into a vibrant venue where kids could spend happy times. Before I opened the playschool I embarked on a study tour to UK and spent a lot of time at the Early Learning Centre, Nursery World and Sensory Organisation, learning all about child care. I attended seminars and interacted with many experts. I went to China to attend a seminar and meet with Howard Gardner, founder of the multiple intelligence theory. That interaction gave me a great insight into the teaching methods. Anyway, learning is a never-ending process and for me it is a continuing experience. In fact, that is a process which goes on with us at Teeny-
Boppers. We continuously tweak our curriculum every year as children grow smarter with each generation and we have to raise the bar. That is why I go a step further and say that I learn a lot from my children too.” CHRISTENING “The magic words casually happened. I was discussing various things, including the name of the venture, with a friend and both of us uttered simultaneously ‘Teeny Boppers’ and that was it.” HURDLES Poonam calls the journey rather smooth despite a few hiccups. “There were a few well-meaning institutions providing recreation to children, though not actually striving for their all-round development. In such a scenario my school came up with a holistic concept. It took some time for people to grasp it. Though some parents dithered a bit over the fees initially, they realized that they were paying for the high standards I set and maintained. There used to be undue demands from a few parents, many a time quite frivolous and borne out of anxiety. However, a gentle discussion or sometimes a rm reassurance that we indeed knew how to care for little children was enough to pacify them. There were times, when we did feel that parents were unreasonable and trying to ride roughshod over mentors at the school just because they were paying fee! These kind of issues needed deft handling as we were after all running a school and everyone involved -we and parentswere bound by certain norms. Anyway, I have nothing major to complain because they are all inevitably part of the game.
DREAM COMES TRUE “We settled for a curriculum which is a judicious mixture of our own exalted Indian traditions and highly evolved western traits. The premises was inaugurated by the then mayor of Visakhapatnam, Smt.Rajana Ramani and the owners of the property, the late Smt.Gangabai and the late Sri.Hanumanth Rao in August 2003. We started with 40 children, who came to us drawn by the school’s facilities and word-ofmouth propaganda,” recalls Poonam. The child, coming to a playschool, steps out of its zone of lial comfort and security and has to be treated with kid gloves. Hence Poonam selects her teaching mentors based purely on their attitude towards children and communication skills. They get hands-on training in all aspects of early learning and child handling and many also put their own experiences as mothers to good use. Poonam is a keen listener and ready to accommodate ideas and views of others and this helped her build a good team. She believes that the success of her institutions is a compliment to her team that works with unstinted commitment and devotion. Success, it is said, brings out only the very best in people. Without resting on her laurels, Poonam went for her second branch, this time a kindergarten, after a gap of six years. Today her schools stand out as symbols of what a woman with conviction can achieve.
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FROM HOME AND ABROAD The children of Teeny-Boppers are drawn from all sections of society. Some are the children of foreigners and NRIs. “What surprises me is that some of them come from other cities and sometimes other countries with a prior knowledge of the school. I strongly believe that it is our work and not our words that should speak for us. Hence we have never done much in terms of advertising ourselves.” USP Poonam insists that education should never be commercialised. “We designed a curriculum that gives the child an unbridled freedom and a multipronged opportunity to grow. They learn at play and play as they learn.” UNIQUE WAYS “When we introduced Yoga for the children, a lot of parents aired their apprehensions. As a tribute to Bapuji, I introduced charkha spinning, on which again quite a few eyebrows were raised. I found that the hand-eye coordination required for this craft does a lot of good for the child. I studied and practised the technique before I introduced it to kids. Noting the benets of these activities, the parents were full of praise for my initiatives. We are the rst in the city to introduce events like a Halloween parade, Grandparents’ Day and Kite Festival, which were later emulated by many others.” FALLING STANDARDS “A casual approach, which we never witnessed during our school days, has crept into today’s education system. We were imparted certain values that are hard to nd now. I am trying to revive at least some of the old values while meeting the present day’s demands. We have to be extra-cautious as we are moulding tender minds, impacting them forever.” HEALTH-CONSCIOUS “Today’s parents get carried away by the new trends sweeping across the market and adopt some unhealthy habits, for example, usage of harmful plastic products. I have banned the use of “non-food safe” plastic lunch boxes and bottles in the school.” IMAGE “It still comes as a shock to some parents when they meet me for the rst time. I, with my westernized dressing style, do not conform to their “perspective” of a school head! However, the initial response turns positive with people saying, ‘Thank God, you are not run-of-the mill.’ Anyway, I am who I am and comfortable as I am and at the moment, there is no way I’ll change.” RETURNS People setting out with lofty targets should have patience and not look for short-term gains, feels Poonam. “It is possible to gain from any business, without compromising on the quality, if you give it undivided attention. You have to constantly evaluate situations in business and strategise well to ensure that returns are sustained over a determined period.”
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CSR “I have been involved in many social projects from the day I founded my school. I set aside part of my earnings to support the education of some underprivileged students and at SOS Children’s Villages of India. We have also adopted a park in the vicinity of our kindergarten’s premises which was in a shambles and helped beautify it for the public use. We lend a helping hand to Ichcha Foundation, a non-prot institution for the destitute and the handicapped at Kondakarla in Vizag. By joining YI, I have better opportunities to extend support to wider circles of the needy. In terms of individual social responsibility I think that every individual should allocate at least a small part of his/her earnings for the betterment of their fellow human beings.” FEMINISM AND WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS “The percentage of women entrepreneurs globally is a woeful 5% and it is lesser in India. The main reason for this is women are not able to balance their multiple roles at home and work. Sometimes one can put it down to a distinct lack of support within their environment. Unaware of their own capabilities, women shy away from additional responsibilities.” NATURAL JUGGLER “We have to make some conscious decisions on certain issues. When my daughter was growing, I decided to forego pubbing and partying. I divided my time between my business and home, keeping them as my top priorities. I believe that any woman can manage work and home, with a little help from her husband, if she takes a call on it. Women are excellent in balancing emotions and family affairs besides being sturdy pillars of support in business. Finances are best managed by women at home and work too. The best banks are being run by women whereas their presence is hardly felt in the industry,” says Poonam, explaining the lopsided priorities the women set for themselves.
Modi’s native place. But she was born and raised in Hyderabad. After a two-year stint with Jet Airways in Mumbai, she returned to Hyderabad to join Marriot Hotel where she met Srinath Sambandan. The colleagues fell in love. “It was no fairy tale affair nor was there any high drama of resistance from either side,” insists Poonam, who lost her heart to Srinath when she saw him making a humanitarian gesture to a family member. “Being both nancially and otherwise independent, I did not have any problem in having my way. I was also absolutely delighted to go into a very progressive and educated family. Both of us had a short pre-opening stint with a hotel in Indore before moving to Visakhapatnam where my husband joined The Park Hotel as Executive Chef in 1997. I conceived soon after coming here and chose to stay home taking care of my child. That was the time I read innumerable books on childcare. That knowledge became the foundation for my venture,” narrates Poonam. FROM CANDLES TO KIDS “When I moved to Vizag I found that it was neither a town nor a city and was totally untouched by modernity. Taking the void I faced as a challenge, I carved a life for myself. To start with, I offered English tuitions. I used to make decorative candles and hold exhibitions. Vizag does not come across as a vibrant and dynamic city. But, for people who want to contribute to society, it throws open innumerable avenues. In fact, all second and third tier cities have much more to offer in terms of opportunities than the mega metros,” says Poonam who embodies the spirit of creating something out of nothing.
INSPIRATION AND MOTIVATION “My father, the late Mr. Ramesh Chandra Lalbhai Shah, was a man of very progressive thoughts and high ideals. He always wanted us girls to be independent and make a mark in whatever eld we chose. He encouraged me to go to Mumbai for a job. He is my true source of inspiration. Many people ask me why I carry my maiden name Shah. That is my true identity. My mother Mrs.Jyothsna had made us pretty independent, giving us not just quantity but also quality time. She is a scholar and even now, at 75, she teaches scriptures in a Jain Pathashala. Perhaps that is from where I get my teaching talent. My friend Bhupen Shah and my husband Srinath are two people who helped me build these edices of education. HANDED DOWN VALUES Stating that the early lessons imparted by her father stood her in good stead, Poonam says. “He always insisted that we should learn the local language wherever we lived and become part and parcel of the local society. He was also keen on my earning and handling money right from a young age. I took up my rst job at a small rm when I was 14. I also worked in my cousin’s beauty parlour for some time to get a feel of business even while I was studying.” FLASHBACK To have a better understanding of this dynamic and eversmiling young lady, it is essential to go back to her roots. Poonam was born in a Gujarati family that hails from ‘the recently in news’ Mehsana district, Prime Minister Narendra red | october 2014 | 145
SHE DEFINES Luxury A state of mind and it varies from one individual to the other. Style Whatever you carry off with ease and your body language. It has to be self-taught, not contrived. Holiday A learning experience, something that expands my horizon. Job Satisfaction I feel happy when my Teeny-Boppers greet me warmly with respect even after years of leaving their rst school. Of course, I prefer to remain a bit unsatised with accomplishments, which goads me to move further.
HER THOUGHTS
BUCKET LIST
•
An ordinary woman too has an extraordinary will within and it is just that realisation is what needed for women to impact immense positive change in society.
•
A woman has her own identity besides being a daughter, a wife and a mom.
•
Taboo is a word out of my parlance unless it conforms to moral values
•
There is every possible opportunity out there in this world and it is up to us to grab it.
I am yet to realize my dream. FUTURE PLANS I want to plunge headlong into welfare activities. More schools and more trades are on the anvil, all to be unveiled in good time.
VARIED MOODS Happiness Being on my toes with a continuous creative buzz in my brain and setting new trends in the scope of my business activities. Frustration Just a eeting feeling. Regret That my dad is not here to see me and my modest yet sincere achievements. Fear I really do not feel fear, at least not at a personal level. It is the thought of the direction in which humanity is heading and for a society which is growing extremely materialistic, that is scary. Sadness Seeing people suffer.
HYDERABAD
eve
Kavitha Writes
New Chapter By Sumana Reddy
W
hen a woman transcends the clichĂŠd barriers to be a catalyst of change, she becomes a leader. However, Ms.Kalvakuntla Kavitha is not just a leader. She has many impressive dimensions to her persona. She is a devoted daughter, loving sister and above all she is a trusted friend to many. When lakhs of people were inspired by her father, Chief Minister, Mr. K. Chandrasekhar Rao and his struggle for Telanagana state, how could his own daughter remain untouched? But she has chosen a unique path- culture - to bring about the much-needed change in the society. She shot into fame by reviving Bathukamma festival through her Telangana Jagruthi. Seven years of relentless service had helped her reach Parliament. In fact, it was the common women of Nizamabad, who chose her as their representative to bring about change in the male-dominated system. In return, Kavitha has been taking measurable steps to empower women. She takes time off her busy schedule to talk of her tasks and travails.
Excerpts The Outset I am a Piscean. I was born in Karimnagar and brought up in Medak. I had an excellent childhood with the doting family showering me with abundant love and care. Thanks to my father’s public life and political eminence, I have earned a big extended family that gave me a lot of attention. Understandably, my father had little time for us, but my brother’s affection and assistance more than compensated for it. After obtaining an engineering degree in Computer Sciences, I went to the US to pursue further studies. Unfortunately I met with an accident and could not complete my dissertation. Still I worked as a programmer for some time. Happily Married My marriage with Anil was arranged by elders. It took place just ten days after our rst meeting. As I am a frank and forthright person, I told him everything about me, including the trivia like my habit of dyeing my hair. Perhaps that was what impressed him. Anil is a boon to me and we are 1,000% compatible. He is always ready with support and help in innumerable responsibilities I carry out. We are blessed with two wonderful sons. It was the rst year of our marriage during which we lived in the US that laid a concrete foundation to our relationship. I think the initial years are crucial for any marriage. The couple should be left alone without outsiders’ interference, which is quite common in India. Destiny Lok Sabha I established Telangana Jagruthi, which pro-actively works on socio-cultural issues. In our struggle to achieve separate state, this played a key role as social activism and politics are intertwined. Gradually, it gained momentum and helped in boosting the common man’s interest in politics. All those who played a vital role in the stir for the separate state were given tickets in the elections. Hence I am here. It was neither pre-meditated nor was there a ‘well-thought-of’ plan to join politics or contest the elections. It just happened. First Female MP from Nizamabad I did not realise that I was the rst female MP from Nizamabad, until one of the speakers in Parliament addressed me that way! (laughs) I felt very proud. There were 1,00,000 women voters that form the major chunk in the Karimnagar and
Nizamabad electorate. This made a humungous difference, considering the male to female voting ratio. This conrms that all the women who exercised their franchise, voted for me. I polled around 4,52,000 votes with a majority of 1,67,000, which is probably the rst ever in India. This shows that women want women to be in power because they can interact with us with ease and comfort. I’m very happy and thankful to all my voters. First Day in Parliament It was a day lled with action. The Polavaram Ordinance was passed and I felt bad that I had to stage a protest against it on my very rst day. When it comes to protecting people’s interest, a leader cannot think of his/her personal image or niceties. We have to do what is required and stand for that cause. Although it did not feel very good that day, all that mattered was that I was representing my people who trusted me. Election not a Cakewalk I stood up for many social causes in Nizamabad. It was a pure hard work. I was also condent of the relationships I established with the women in that region. Fortunately, being KCR’s daughter always adds to my aura. Right from the beginning, I knew I would win. But I faced too many opposing views and rumours. They posed a tough challenge to my candidature during elections. Although I could not visit many places, I had an edge over the other contestants as women in the villages unanimously decided to vote for me. New Horizons for Nizamabad Industrialization of Telangana is our main focus. Our CM had identied wastelands which are unt for agriculture to set up industries. We oppose acquiring fertile lands, as they can be used for cultivating more food grain, which India is short of. My father looks at land as our precious asset. We plan to preserve it for future generations. We wish to incorporate the Singapore system of optimised utilisation of land while developing infrastructure. Nizamabad has 30,000 acres of wasteland for which, I particularly identied a few projects- production of ethanol from corn and cornakes. I also requested the Centre to set up a heavy vehicle manufacturing plant, which was obviously rejected (laughs). There are opportunities for other projects as well. The Telangana government has
prudent plans to lay eight-lane road to Nagpur. Since Nizamabad is strategically located on the way, there is a possibility of developing it as a land port. Adding another to the list, I intend to develop an amusement park here. There is a manmade reservoir called ‘Pochampad’ with lush green landscapes, which is 150 km away from Hyderabad. This can turn into a weekend getaway for people who love adventure. I hope all this materialises. Beedi Industry The Labour Minister promised funds to build 16,000 houses for the beedi workers. This is important for the people who work at the expense of their health. My father too announced a pension of Rs.1,000 each to 1.5 lakh beedi workers. I offered scholarships to their children. These scholarship amounts have to be deposited in their bank accounts. But, many students do not have accounts due to lack of identity proofs and even if they do have an account, they are not able to maintain minimum balance due to lack of earnings. Because of this, the banks refused to open accounts for students and thousands of them are losing opportunities to study. I approached the minister concerned on this issue and I hope he will come up with a solution soon. The beedi industry is a vast subject as there are multiple aspects to be considered. We are all on the job every single minute. Agreed, we are on square one as far as developing the constituency. But I am earnestly working to reach the 100th square. Turmeric Production If turmeric is given the herbal status, India can increase its production. It is a vital ingredient in Indians’ diet all right. As it is a part of the Spices Board, there is no separate fund allocated to develop it. The Tamil Nadu CM offered support to help produce good quality turmeric and also to have a separate board for it. This was one of my promises during election campaign. I plan to appeal to other CMs for their support for this cause. There is a serious stress on turmeric research. The major reason for decline in production is the yawning gap between the market price (Rs.15,000) and minimum support price (Rs.4,000). The middle men reap the benets. It will be an achievement if we can step up the production of turmeric in our state. red | october 2014 | 149
Her thoughts • I dream for India to be the number one country and Telangana to be the number one state. • Atrocities on children are highly disheartening and should be stopped.
Shoot by Dinakar Pamu
• All women should be educated. Religious and economical barriers do come in the way. But I hope to achieve 100% women literacy in the next 20 years.
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Cold Storage for Fruits and Vegetables A survey proved that 40% of fruits and vegetables perish due to lack of cold storage facilities. Noting these appalling statistics, we have taken the issue to Parliament. The Food Processing and Railway Ministers promised to allot separate AC coaches for the transportation of food material to cold storage. We aim to set up one unit (Rs10.cr) in each mandal in Nizamabad. I requested the Commerce and Food and Processing Ministers to come up with plausible solutions. With a good women team in politics, it is all achievable. Smriti Irani, Nirmala Sitharaman and Najma Heptulla give me a great support. New Telangana We want to break the stereotype and establish Telangana as a brand. To emerge as a prominent state, we are striving to build good relations with the bordering states, developing exceptional infrastructure, publishing coffee table books about the new state and taking up many more initiatives. Telangana Jagruthi Initially I entered public life to work for social causes. Hence the motto of Telangana Jagruthi is WHY (Women, Health and Youth). But when I toured rural villages, I realised that our women are not aware of the facilities given to them and don’t even question if they are not extended. For example, a nurse comes to the village twice a month to conduct check-ups and hand over medicines to the RMP. But no voice is raised even if she doesn’t turn up. About the same time I also found out that we are culturally very rich and culture is a very effective tool to get any message across to the people. I revived Bathukamma to transform women’s attitude and lifestyle. I could motivate them to establish their identity, which in turn makes them condent.
Family Support I draw support not only from my husband, but also from my in-laws. My basic support comes from my mother-in-law who is very sweet and open-minded. I have my mother as well to fall back on. I have an amazing life because I’m very happy on the family front. Women in Politics Politics is a very difcult and male-dominated eld. The woman-man ratio is 1:100. This itself shows how hostile is the environment to women. Some men are snobbish. My advice to aspirants is to be equipped with knowledge, stand up and speak. As long as you know what you are talking about, nobody can take you lightly. Success Mantra Living a cool and peaceful family life. I maintain excellent communication with my husband, children and my in- laws. I keep everybody happy around me. This helps me work towards my goals. Women Empowerment My rst step towards empowering women is to include them in the nancial system. Every woman should hold an account. Savings and bank account are the basic tools that help a woman achieve independence and boost her condence. Her skills can be further honed and she can also be offered marketing opportunities. Luckily the Telangana government is ready to pay premium for a zero balance account, which encourages women to save regularly. I even fought with many banks to allow women to deposit Rs.5 or Rs.10 per day. Bucket List My dream is to have Bathukamma performed at the White House. I want to continue my higher studies.
This is one festival which attracts people from all walks of life. Of late women are shedding their inhibitions and voluntarily coming to carry Bathukamma on their heads. I look it at as the rst step towards success. The next step is to revive Telangana idiom in the songs. If this happens, the Telangana culture will be preserved for posterity. My idea is to imbibe cultural values among youth and children. Social Activities I run a school for the mentally impaired in Nalgonda, which I don’t publicise. I give scholarships and encourage students in sports. When Telangana was in the grip of dengue, we distributed Rs.3,00,000 worth medicines. Somehow politics got braided into the socio-cultural activities. Telangana Jagruthi is a vibrant organization and will continue to be so. Now that I am an MP, I delegate the tasks to my cadre who actively follow the yearly calendar of social and cultural events. Publication We published a lot of books. But my dream is to chronicle the history of Telangana which dates back to 3,000 years. This project is going on for two years and will take another three years to complete. This book is based on the rock inscriptions that are irrefutable. Turning Point I suffered a major accident in the US. That was when I realised that everything is momentary. But, what remains is what you want to be remembered for. Striking a Balance As I belong to the modern generation, I compartmentalise my priorities. This helps me work with ease. red | october 2014 | 151
Quick Bites What are the unique traits that you have inherited from your father? Nose (laughs) and being adamant What are the advantages/pressures that come with the KCR tag? Instant recognition is an advantage and high expectation is the pressure. Tainting my father’s name is the worst of my fears. What was the most rewarding moment in your life? Advaniji paid compliments to me after I spoke about Kashmiri Pundits in Parliament. This was very attering. When I came home after a hectic day, my son started singing ‘Batkamma Batkamma uyyalo’. This was most rewarding as this shows that the next generation is already learning about our rich culture. A quote that inspires you All the quotes of Martin Luther King. You are a true example of beauty and brains. Comment. (Laughs) Thank You. They are not directly proportional is all I can say! Share the best moment of your life. When I saw my elder son’s face as soon as he was born, I was spellbound. Who are you close to- father or brother? Brother. Your opinion on KCR as a father and the CM? As a father he is better. Although he gave our space, he would surround us with an invisible leash, which is a tact every parent should learn. As a CM he is picking up. Only after certain projects materialise, public can judge a politician’s performance. I want to continue my higher studies. If everything works out, I will pursue my Masters.
Your opinion on KTR as a brother and the minister? My brother is like a father gure to me. As a minister and politician, he is very good and innovative. You and KTR are successors of your father’s political legacy. Would you want your children to continue this? I will neither encourage nor will I discourage them. It is up to them. If they choose to enter politics, I will only guide them. Your hobbies? Reading, listening to music. Who is your idol? Margaret Thatcher If not a politician, what would you be? Author. What are your strengths/weaknesses? Weakness - I’m very adamant. Strength- I’m very accommodative. One thing about you that nobody knows? I write a lot of poems and escape from my regular life. My father too writes poems which was why he named me Kavita.
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C
elebrating the beauty of life is not just a tagline for Malabar Gold and Diamonds, but a promise of happiness and everlasting relationship it gives to its clientele and keeps up. Incepted in 1993, this one of India's largest jewellery chains runs over hundred showrooms worldwide and has a strong presence in both India and the Middle East. Procuring six in-house brands to cater to the needs of discerning customers, it offers superior quality products that give value for money and an impeccable service.
The Jaded Beauty: Kundans always add frolic to ornaments. But in this case jades and rubies also added a bit of friskiness to the ‘ETHNIX Handcrafted designer jewellery’ collection. Never-be-outdated Kundans can go with both simple and heavy saris or even anarkalis.
Gold: 320.03 gm. Other stones: 64.86 carat. Price: Rs.9.75 lakh.
Shoot by Dinakar Pamu
By Sumana Reddy
Contemporary Carcanet: ‘MINE diamonds unlimited’ launched this unique cluttered design which has diamonds of different shapes. The set is complemented with changeable synthetic stones and a pair of trendy cocktail earrings which can be worn over western outfits as well. This is the same set that Kareena Kapoor shows off in the brand’s advertisements. Gold: 158.93 gm. Other stones: 27.95 carat. Pearls: 16.15 carat Diamonds:1,864 diamonds & 81.48 carat Price: Rs.19.34 lakh.
Leaves Chocker Set: From the ‘PRECIA Precious Gem Jewellery’ is this chocker set which is graciously crafted with leaf design. Brimming with Czed stones, it perfectly sits on one’s neck as a collar. One can buy this ‘almost diamond’ set without burning a hole in the pocket. This is a perfect piece that can be worn on gowns for a red- carpet look.
Gold : 225.94 gm. Czed diamonds: 106.85 carat. Emeralds: 11.95 carat. Pearls: 20.50 carat. Price: Rs.7.11 lakh.
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The Jodha Akbar Set: Inspired from the famous Jodha Akbar jewellery, ‘ERA uncut diamond jewellery’ comes up with this collection. This neckpiece is paired with traditional jhumkas dangling with emerald tear drops which can be worn on any Indian attire. Although it looks very heavy on the eyes, it is a true example of grace and grandeur.
Gold: 198.0 gm. Uncut diamonds: 90.60 carat. Other stones: 105.25 carat. Price: Rs.17.95 lakh.
Peacock Pleasure: This seven tiered peacock haaram supported with two magnificent peacocks, is one of a kind piece of jewellery and a definite head-turner. The last line of this haaram is a string of minute pearls put together in a circular design. The peacock carved earrings speak loudly of the typical Indian art and is a part of ‘DIVINE Indian Heritage Jewellery’. Gold: 165.52 gm. Other stones : 10.93 carat. Price: Rs.5.23 lakh.
Unique Meenakari Choker: ‘ETHNIX handcrafted designer jewellery’ presents one of its kind acely crafted Meenakari neckpieces. The set comes with attached maatni chaand balis, which also adds to the design element of the choker. Gold ball dangles are the little knick-knacks that add to its style quotient. Gold: 225.39 gm. Other stones: 4.84 carat. Price: Rs.7.48 lakh.
ERA Emerald Kada: From the ERA Uncut Diamond Collection is this pair of emerald-studded trinkets that can be worn for parties. If one has low budget and an irresistible urge to add uncut bangles to one’s collection, then this is the one to shell savings on. Gold: 49.95 gm. Emerald: 4.70 carat. Uncut Diamonds: 18.40 carat. Price: Rs.2.49 lakh.
Kaasula Gaajulu When a number of kaasulu is bound together to form a bangle, it does not remain just an ornament. It turns the person who adorns it into an object of envy. There is no hard and fast rule to style this accessory as it complements any outfit. Being a symbol of tradition, the South Indian kaasu designs never fade nor would be out of fashion. Gold: 41.80 gm. Price: Rs.1.48 lakh.
Diamond Lakshmi Vaddanam: A waist belt is not just for keeping the sari in place, but to accentuate the curves of the wearer and the overall structure of the outfit. The little diamond droplets bring out the belt’s traditional essence. The adornment is filled with fiery diamonds and rubies. Intricacy and elegance add to its design element. Silk saris are a blind ‘go’ for a sensual piece as this. Gold : 263.10 gm. Synthetic Rubies : 0.78 carat. Diamonds : 1,533 diamonds and 14.35 carat. Price : Rs.19.62 lakh.
ERA Ruby Kada: If you don’t prefer diamonds, uncuts are a great replacement. With open- close mechanism, these kadas are studded with uncut diamonds and rubies which are from the ERA Uncut Diamond Collection. This can be worn either single, in pairs or even with other fancy bangles. Gold : 74.30 gm. Rubies : 2.60 carat. Uncut Diamonds : 28.80 carat. Price : Rs.4.23 lakh.
Traditional Lakshmi Vanki Ornaments of deity designs speak volumes of the Indian tradition. One such is this armlet worn for weddings and receptions by a bride. The design holds Goddess Lakshmi with floral carvings around. Wear it over a blouse with three-fourth or short sleeves and be a mirror of our culture and charm Gold : 53.35 gm. Diamonds : 435 diamonds and 3.17 carat. Other stones : 6.20 carat. Price : Rs.4.16 lakh.
VIZAG
life
R E T S I N I M SANS AIRS
da By V. Sara iation Minister essly as Civil Av aking off effortl d an enviable already reache of India, he has ity, gr honesty, inte altitude with his nse se on -n vernance and no ter is that he at transparent go m e th of ver, the fact we Ho . ch oa at pr ap raft’ th has to o-airworthy airc and confident is flying a ‘not-to Yet the poised r. he at we h ug brave ro own Andhra man hi Raju, our very at ’ ap aj G ok sh Mr.A e face of danger s a ‘I laugh in th h tc ca we h ic at the Centre, ha in wh at is the mood e he attitude. And th nagaram, wher zia Vi e ac pl e tiv na s hi at u aj Mr.R athurti. for Vinayaka Ch s is on a sojourn ow bears no sign al ng bu tic es aj m s ly hi us at uo ter contin The scene es with the mas iti iv st ng fe ro l th na g tio of tradi th a swellin r’, interacting wi ls holding a ‘darba -ranking officia gh hi y an cludes m of people that in ister. and a state min quiet dignity, is ela, a picture of ne Su . rs M fe wi His the helpers, ntly supervising ts something on her toes sile every guest ge d an ch ea at th le interacts ensuring risingly, the coup rp Su k. in dr sis. d an to eat a first name ba the visitors on l al t ains os pl m ex al ” s, th wi r year know them all fo . la “Of course, we ee un d smiling Mrs.S a congenial an
Shoot by Dhana Vijay
T
Despite his royal lineage Mr. Raju touches one and all with his simplicity and child-like smile. Media and political circles are amazed at the way he elicits public opinion and views, striking a conversation with a group here and mingling unobtrusively with a crowd there, at airports and public places. ‘Lead by example’ seems to be his mantra. Shunning the special privileges that go with his position, Mr.Raju travels, like any other passenger, in a bus from the airport terminal to the tarmac, stands in queue for pre-embarkation security checks, carries his bags and never delays a ight. He arrives an hour in advance, that too without any fanfare. He remains untouched by power despite his long innings as a seven-time MLA, a minister in the N.T.R and N.Chandrababu Naidu governments and now a minister in the central cabinet. Aviation ofcials sing his praises, describing him as a minister who always gives them a patient hearing. While his hospitality is king-size, his quick wit and warmth are heartening. The ‘royal’ couple yields to our fastidious lensman’s demands with a smile and patiently answers a volley of questions despite the surrounding hubbub.
EXCERPTS You have taken over a sector fraught with problems. What is your take on it? What we are doing right now is just transporting passengers. Though there is a considerable growth here, the sector’s potential has neither been fully identied nor tapped. Of course, it is easier said than done. We must realise how crucial the sector is for economy and treat it as such. I do admit that there is a drift in the sector that needs to be arrested. What are the measures you are mulling over? We are working on a number of strategies, with special focus on connectivity to remote areas and tourist hotspots and building a few functional airports. What are the areas that need to be looked at? Tourism and air cargo are two important aspects which need immediate attention. Our people do travel but for certain purpose. Out of the four categories of tourism, we are strong in heritage and religious tourism but are very weak in leisure and almost non-existent in adventure. We need a mix of all this. We are losing out in certain sectors which experience a seasonal lull. For example, the Ladakh sector records tremendous rush only four months a year whereas Srinagar receives a steady ow throughout. How to exploit these sectors and make optimum use of our eet is the question. We also have to think of ways and means to make forays into hitherto unexplored areas. For example, air services are playing a great role in Vaishnodevi and Amarnath pilgrimages. The rides take you through picturesque routes. We should organise short trips on these lines. The tourism ministry has to craft packages with local travelers in mind. We are ready to chip in. This reminds me of the Eurail pass that lets you visit all the wonderful cities of Europe. Of course, adopting this model in India, a vast country with varied climatic conditions, is not easy. We have to design seasonal packages for northern, southern, western and eastern circuits for which we have to get the state governments on board and establish linkages.
Air cargo is an economic activity that can bring prosperity. World over, low-volume high-value cargo gets transported by air. Especially ferrying perishables opens a whole pile of opportunities which can be harnessed. Air service comes in handy because rail and road transport is slow. Our proposed improvements to the air service will give a shot in the arm to the economy and improve connectivity to remote corners. US has downgraded the Indian aviation, your take on it. India has a reasonable safety record in aviation. We met 27 of 30 points they have set. I am sure we will soon restore our lost status. What is ailing our sector? It is hard to pinpoint a few deciencies, as it is a mixture of a lot of factors. The major contributor is the high cost of the Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF). Nearly 45% of aviation spending goes for it. One of the actionable points on the State’s side is probably reducing the taxes on ATF that are fairly high. Goa, Telangana, Chhattisgarh and Andhra Pradesh have already made positive announcements in this direction. They realise that high taxation means killing the goose that lays the golden eggs. Sometimes uncalled-for regulations too become hindrance. For example, recently one person came to me seeking permission to connect all the airports in Maharashtra to Mumbai, ying an 8-seater. The scheduled and non-scheduled classication rule, which is unique to our country, has come in the way of giving him the nod. Agreed, we should not fool around with safety norms. But we should get rid of some highly expendable regulations that hinder protable deals.
God blessed me with a nice family.
He is extremely adjusting, very affectionate and caring.
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FAVOURITES
IN A NUTSHELL
The basic idea is to have the right intentions and to be honest and upright.
HYDERABAD
life
GLOBAL
THE
MAN Shoot by Dhana Vijay
By Sumana Reddy
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E X C E R P T S
She is pure and simple
He is energy personified
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The whole world is mine. I always thought it was out there, a canvas, to adventure and explore.
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L I G H T H E A R T E D
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FA M I LY C O R N E R
FA V O U R I T E S
Future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams’ - Eleanor Roosevelt
VIZAG
Shoot by Dhana Vijay
Meetha Merchants H By Ranita Ray
umanly it is not possible to tour the entire India at one time. But if you take the route through stomach, perhaps you can. Sweet India in Vizag is your station. It won’t be wrong to call it a meeting point of east, west, north and south. The quintessential sweet shop has been serving popular desserts of the country and has become an inseparable part of any festive celebration of the locals. Be it the hot and syrup-dripping jalebis, the smooth sandesh or juicy rasgullas, one can’t help but indulge here. Started 40 years ago on a very humble scale, it has certainly fortied its presence in the trade of sweets. The merchants of the brand, Anil Joshi and his sons Adarsh and Aditya speak of the ins and outs of their venture. Mind it, this is no sugarcoated presentation of the reality.
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ANIL NAILS IT
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ADITYA’S HOMECOMING
ADARSH’S IDEAL TOUCH Adarsh Joshi, the eldest of the brothers too contributes his mite. He has his own textile trade Poonam Silks in Vizianagaram and soon will be foraying into Vizag market. “I may not be fully involved in the family trade, but I am always there as a support system for my father and brother whenever they need me.” What are your aims with Sweet India? I want to increase our reach. I wish to get our brand global recognition. Our online store will make this possible. Now there is a great demand for online sweets supply and giftpacked sweet boxes. I want to modernise the business by bringing in new concepts. My father has plans to sell our namkeen in duplex packing pouches all across the Coastal Andhra. Aditya and I have taken the responsibility to execute it. By Diwali we will hit the market. What is the greatest risk associated with this industry? A little bit of negligence can chase your customer away. With no offence to anyone, let me tell you all of us have seen cockroaches and ies even at our homes, but the moment people spot them in the shop, they label the store dirty. We have to be extremely meticulous and impeccable to retain our image and the customer’s faith. Is sugar killing, do you agree? Do you adapt to the changing food habits of people? I don’t agree completely. As on one hand we have diseases like diabetes, where sugar works as poison, on the other the market has already worked out a solution to satiate their sweet-tooth. The sugar-free sweets are here. We have also adapted to such changes. We are following modern methods to prepare health-friendly sweets. The popular choice as an alternative is the sweets which are naturally sweetened with dry fruits. At the same time, we have some fusion sweets too, like the sonpapdi got chocolate avour and sandesh has vanilla and blueberry avour. In fact, people are eating more sweets these days. Are you also looking at other strong contenders for desserts- cakes and pastries? Afrmative! Bakeries are our next target. We will start up cakes and pastries, but purely egg-less. Does Sweet India have any expansion plans? Yes, it does have. We have plans to open three more branches in Vizag. By Diwali Vizagites can relish our products at our NAD branch. I will take up the charge of this store. The next two will be opened in Gajuwaka and Madhurawada. We are also into outdoor catering and we are best in it too. We cater to 90% of the Marwari weddings
and functions in Vizag. Though Spice India is closed now, one will get that thali parcel counter soon here. Even the NAD branch will also have a parcel facility of our thalis. What is the specialty of Sweet India? There is a saying in Hindi- ‘sachhai, safai aur samai’ and we follow it religiously. We maintain sachhai-honesty with our customers and don’t sell them spoilt food. Every night we rather throw away 10-15 kg of sweets the moment we get a doubt about their quality. We can challenge that our sweets are most hygienic, thus we meet the safai standard. For ‘samai’ I can vouch that we provide the nest of taste to the best of our ability that too on time. What is your prediction on sweet industry? Not only sweets, but the food industry itself will see a great boom. Anyone attached to culinary business is sure to ourish. With decades of experience in the eld, my father says that people, who have been growing extremely busy and pre-occupied, will be cooking less and less at home and will be depending on the public eateries. We will provide complete meal which will be so light and tasty and at such a competitive price, that one can afford it daily. red | october 2014 | 177
Shoot by Dinakar Pamu
HYDERABAD
HALLOWED HALWAI K
nown for its sweets and delicacies, Dadu’s is a brand that every Hyderabadi swears by for its exotic sweets and appetizing savouries. Rajesh, son of Mr.Sudarshan, started the Dadu’s rst outlet in 1993. Later, his brother Raman and nephew Rusheel joined him to take it forward as a family business. Dadu’s, famed for its innovative sweets and remarkable quality, transformed the brand into a sign of privilege for its clientele.
By Sumana Reddy
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RAJESH'S SWEET MEMORIES
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alking about how he hyped the brand's prestige quotient, Rajesh Ji narrates an engrossing tale of his voyage in the sweets business. “In early nineties, when I started the store, I would take up small orders of just 50 samosas. I used to start working from 4:00 am, if I had to deliver samosas at 7:00 am because samosa-making is a time-consuming process. Those days we lived in Malakpet and to get a bus as early as 4:00 am was next to impossible. Therefore I would stay back in the shop to meet the early deadlines. I would close the shutters and sleep outside the shop. In that area, some philanthropists used to distribute blankets to the homeless in the nights quite regularly. I happened to be one of the beneciaries of their and I got two blankets.” (laughs) What was your initial capital? I started Dadu's with a capital of Rs.30,000. It was a small store that I opened at Himayatnagar. As I was always interested in sweets business, I learnt the art of confectionery from my uncle who owned a sweet house in Bangalore. After getting trained by him from 1986 to 1993, I came back to Hyderabad and started my rst mithai shop. Just like every success journey, mine too was replete with many stumbling blocks. The most difcult one was competition. When I set foot in the business, I was competing with a well established sweets' brand (undisclosed), which was started with a huge capital on a big scale. But, they were selling only traditional sweets. Here, I had an edge over them. I innovated on the sweet recipes and invented nifty gift packing designs. I altered the conventional methods of making sweets and produced fusion sweets based on ingredients like fruits and malai. I catered these sweets at marriages, which was unanimously appreciated. Ever since, I have taken forward my innovations condently and still continue to do so. Which was the first branch and was it a smooth launch? My rst branch was at Diamond House, Liberty Road at Himayatnagar, which is spread over 800 sft. Of which, 350 sft is the showroom and the remaining is kitchen. I faced initial hiccups like getting licence, maintaining staff and meeting the overheads. When I started off, I had only two chefs and now I’m proud to say that I provide livelihood for 400 people. You are into innovative products? How do you come up with ideas? I denitely produce the tried and tested products. But I constantly look out for new avours and combinations. If I taste a scrummy chocolate, I incorporate that essence into sweets and try its combinations with khoya or cashew nuts or with any existing fusion sweet and produce two or three samples of it. I place them over the counter for the customers to taste. Based on that feedback, we identify the most liked of the lot and produce it in larger quantities. Even the other samples don’t go waste as my mother enhances their quality
by adding the missing ingredient. We repeat the tasting process again. This is the way we expand our menu. Do you take advice from your father? What was the best advice he gave you so far? Time and again I do approach my father for advice or solutions. But the one advice he gave me had changed my attitude completely. There was a time when I used to constantly think of my competitor and his modus operandi. I even doubted my own survival. It almost had become an obsession. I used to constantly ask my customers if they had tried the sweets from the other sweet house and why did they come to Dadu’s instead of that store. Realizing how frantic I was, my father advised, “Think of your own destiny rather than that of others. Nobody can take away yours or the other way round.” These were the pearls of wisdom he gave me. I blindly follow his advice and never once did I feel threatened by any other sweet brand! Unfortunately, the big sweet house I was talking about downed the shutters after six months. How do you handle competition? Competition is felt only during Dusshera and Diwali. Otherwise there is none. Many companies distribute sweets to their clients and employees during these festivals and to cut corners, they may choose cheaper sweet brands. But only the customers who understand our standards and quality come to us as here they get their money’s worth.
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What is your toughest challenge? Retaining workers has been the toughest of challenges and still continues to be so. These days, nding reliable people is very difcult. Earlier, they used to be loyal and hard working. But now, as soon as they get trained and gain expertise, they head off to other organisations for a few extra bucks. What are the aims of the business? I aspire to launch more outlets all over Hyderabad and Andhra Pradesh, especially in cities like Vijayawada, Vizag. We are also looking at potential places like Pune, Raipur.
within the Marwadi community, there is a tradition of presenting a particular set of sweets as shagun for festivals. Generally these sweets are prepared by a Rajasthani cook at home. I came up with a new concept of assorted package which contains fusion sweets, dry fruits and these traditional sweets, all in small quantities. As sweet consumption is low these days, this concept of ‘all-but-in-small’ clicked instantly and continues to add to our uniqueness. The attractive packaging is our yet another plus point.
There is a considerable rise in diabetics. Are you into sugar-free sweets? The sugar-free market is good. I feel that it does not contain the essential taste. But when jalebis are being made at the live counter, even the diabetic cannot resist the temptation and perhaps pops an extra pill as a penalty for the indulgence! (laughs) Motto Gaining the customers’ trust. We don’t bother too much about prots as long as we deliver good products. When there is no trust even if you sell gold at the iron’s rate, nobody would buy.
USP? In the North Indian culture, especially
RAMAN’S TRADE TRIPS
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ajesh Dadu’s elder brother Raman, plays a crucial role in the family trade and assists his brother in formulating business strategies. He administers the Secunderabad branch. Who are your target customers? We are open to clients from all walks of life. But during festivals, we concentrate on the IT companies as they keep us busy with bulk orders. Some of our customers are Wells Fargo, Verizon, Dr. Reddy’s and Eenadu. We deliver gift wrapped boxes with sweets as per their choice. For general public too, we arrange sweet boxes that suit their budget. We pack pre-set combinations too, which are on display over the counter. Customers can pick up their choice with ease. What extra measures do you take to handle festival rush? We gear up with extra staff and raw materials15 days before the day of festival. For corporate sector, we close bookings a week in advance and for other orders, four days. We see to it that our daily customers too are not inconvenienced. How do you keep your pricing reasonable? We maintain the same rates by reducing the cost or our prot margins. We try not to burden our customers of high prices. But if there is a price rise on dry fruits, we do increase the selling price too, but as less as possible. How do you update yourself? We travel around the world quite often. We look out for new trends and concepts and imbibe those techniques into our production. Same is the case with new avours. Every fortnight we have something new to offer. Perhaps that is why Dadu’s is preferred! Do you use preservatives? We absolutely do not use preservatives. Our products are natural. They usually last for ve days depending on the item. We make sure the customers are informed of expiry dates well in advance.
What are your daily challenges? I make it a point to attract at least ve new customers a day. We want our customers to think of Dadu’s whenever they think of sweets! Who is/are your nearest rival/rivals? We do not have rivals as such. There are many other sweet brands in the city that are well established like Bikanirwala, Almond House. But, other’s success does not pose any threat to us as we have our own uniqueness and loyal customers. Do your cooks come trained or are they given in-house training? Our kitchen is like an academy. We employ skilled labour and train them. But they leave as soon as they gain sufcient knowledge, sometimes even for a mere Rs.1,000 hike! Retaining workforce is the biggest task in the sweet businesses. To hire new ones is the only solution and most of my cooks come from cities like Kolkata, Bihar and Tamil Nadu.
RUSHEEL ADDS NEW SYRUP
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usheel, son of Raman Dadu, has high aspirations for the Dadu’s march forward. He respects his uncle, Rajesh Dadu who started the business and changed the way people look at traditional halwai. He is a management graduate from S.P.Jain Institute of Management and Research and returned with aspirations to start a new business. However, he joined the family business and has been crafting its future projects. Into family business, was it a choice or compulsion? Initially, it was not my choice. I aspired to venture out into a different area. Although I was talked into joining this business, I never regretted a day’s work. Nothing could have given me more pleasure than helping my father and uncle . Many of friends do not have a family run business and I see them struggling to build their ventures right from the scratch, whereas I am given a concrete platform. All I need to do is to take off from there. Since Dadu’s is a reputed sweet house, the moment I mention that I’m so-and-so, I get recognised and instant respect. Your contribution to the business? I control the management division. I’m only two years old in this, but I have built a team and laid down a structured approach to run the daily operations. I want to build a business model which can be effortlessly adapted across the globe as we seek to expand through franchising. We have segmented the work to be shared among departments like manufacturing, quality control, packaging and sales. What are the daily challenges? My personal challenges are to full the set responsibilities for the day and handle staff. On the sales front, to add new customers, connect them to the Dadu’s family and reinforce the old relations. Sometimes handling government and taxation departments also adds to the list of my activities. What are your advertisement strategies? We use social media like facebook and twitter. Whatsapp also plays a major role in spreading the message faster. We have posters and yers which go around the city, but word-of-mouth is our supreme means of promotion. Customers frequent our stores only after they taste our products, but not because they are attracted by advertisements. We offer gift coupons to our customers to encourage purchases. What are your steps to preserve the traditional products? Nothing can replace the traditional sweets. Even today, the most sold items are traditional laddu, peda and kaju katli. During the festivals and traditional celebrations, customers mostly buy only these items. We continue to manufacture the traditional sweets and at the same time offer fusion sweets too.
How do you maintain quality? We have our quality control team which checks and recties the lacunae, if any, in manufacturing. We also buy raw material from reputed brands to maintain quality in the end product. Hygiene is a crucial aspect of your business. What measures do you take to maintain it? Two years ago we renovated our kitchen. We set up futuristic machinery which manufactures sweets automatically with least human intervention. We ensure that the staff abide by the rules of kitchen like wearing caps and gloves and strictly prohibit the entry of outsiders. We also ensure hygiene by conducting medical checkups for the staff members every month. What is your CSR? We have quite a few welfare schemes for our employees. We take care of their children’s needs like their schooling, providing computers and laptops for further education and contributing to their weddings. Besides we provide the staff with accommodation, three meals a day besides tea twice a day. We even support orphanages and we prefer not to talk of them. On the environmental front, we use polythene bags of 40 micron and recently started jute bags. Also, we use recyclable eco-friendly boxes to pack sweets.
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THRILLS THAT CAN HEAL, CHILL AND KILL By Ranita Ray
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re you tired of the old boring resort routine? Then, we have some suggestion. There are unique places that offer exhilarating experiences for which you need not even step out of the cozy bed and comfort of swanky room. Want to give a go-bye to the much-hyped dining experience? Then follow our advice and ď€ nd out that eating can be a nail-biting experience! Want to pay no heed to proposals of those interglot adventure activities? Then read these life-threatening dares in which you literally hoodwink the death! Here is a list of ridiculously perilous thrills that leave even the most stoic slackjawed and the most jaded heart thumping. Even though some of the stunts require special licences or previous experience, you can still add them to your bucket list. They are worth it!
DINE IN THE SKY@ WORLDWIDE It's time to enjoy the uniqueness of eating at 'Dinner in the Sky' table. You sit on chairs ď€ xed on a platform which is raised and suspended from a crane 50 metres up in the air. Each meal takes around an hour. Mind you there is no restroom attached. To make this even more surreal, there is a chef, waiter and an entertainer who serve you throughout. It can accommodate 22 people around the table and can be hosted anywhere like golf course, public place, race track, castle, vineyard as long as there is a surface of approximately 500 metre that can be secured. This Belgian-based novelty restaurant is operated in more than 15 countries including US, Canada, Australia, and South-Africa.
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Grand Canyon Sky walk @Arizona It might look simple. But aren’t looks deceptive? Still keep fear at bay and do visit it. An excursion to the Grand Canyon, a horseshoe shaped transparent cantilever bridge located in Arizona will give some of the tremendous experiences. Considered as one of the prime attractions in Arizona, it hovers at 4,770 feet above the canyon oor near the Colorado River. It is a true engineering marvel and can support the weight of 71 fully loaded Boeing 747s, totalling more than 70 million pounds. Walk out over 70 feet across the glass oor, and it feels like you are oating in the air!
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Longest Cable Car @ Tiamen Shan, China Think of zipping through the breathtakingly beautiful cliffs, Karst caves and rare sub-tropical forests! But wait you can’t stop by or get down on the way because you are in the China’s Tianmen Shan cable car. It’s a tour for the brave hearts, as it is the longest cable car ride in the world, covering a distance of 7,455 metres and it takes nearly half an hour to cover the distance. The car runs from Zhangjiajie downtown up to Tianmen Shan or Heaven’s Gate Mountain. The steepest section of the trail is at angle of 38 degrees. It ascends and descends 1,279 metres.
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Insanity Ride@ Stratosphere We are sane enough to think and are pretty sure that the human body is not meant to spin repeatedly in circles, and certainly not at dazing speeds of 40 mph. Throw in the additional feat of hovering at a 70-degree angle in the open air, 270 metres above ground and 20 metres over the edge of Las Vegas' Stratosphere Tower…..well, that is called ‘Insanity’! If you like roller coasters, then perhaps this one will drive you crazy! These spinning mechanical arms will get your heart pounding probably even before you strap yourself to a seat. Adrenaline junkies, this can be your ultimate place to add excitement to your trip.
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Wing Suit Flying@Florida Well granting wings is only godly affair. But getting as close to natural ight is humanly possible. Just zip into a Wing Suit, a fullbody aerodynamic jumpsuit with aps of either cordura or ripstop nylon! You can whip through the sky at 140 miles per hour ying for minutes. You land by deating parachute. Unlike skydiving, where you jump into a free-fall, it takes into account drag and surface area to let you glide through the air. You also glide forward three feet for every foot you fall, thus cover some serious distance. However, you require previous skydiving experience of at least 200 jumps, a licence and your own wing-suit. Zephyrhills, Florida is home to Skydive City, one of the world's largest skydiving drop zones. The Z-Flock Wing-suit School provides personalized jumps where only one or two people can take part.
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ATV ride @Nevada Desert is not all about camel safari and pretty Belly dancers. Kick up a little sand and experience the best of desert on the ultimate off road All-TerrainVehicle. Ride through harsh desert, sand dunes, stones, washes and gullies, with lots of twists, turns, and hills. A popular choice can be Sin City, Vegas. Well, break out of the normal
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casino and clubbing routine and head to Jean, Nevada. After a short safety brieng, begin the ride. Travel through historic Hidden Valley, extinct lava beds, Jean Dry Lake and then enter the rugged McCullough Mountain Range! All ATV riders must be at least 16 years old with a valid photo ID. You’re guaranteed bragging rights the next night at the bar. Under water @ Manta Resort, Pemba Island, Zanzibar Envision a spectacular experience of you being in a room in the middle of the blue lagoon, watching shoals of reef sh swimming lazily. Indeed a real place, made possible at Manta Resort. It is a private oating island rather a structure 250 m away from the shore, providing three levels of experience. The landing deck, at sea level, has a lounge area and bathroom facility. A ladder leads up to the roof with a relaxing area for sunbathing and star watching. The downstairs has the underwater room with a soft double bed surrounded by glass panes offering almost 360 degree views. Besides the stunning day view, by night, the underwater spotlights beneath each window around the room attract the shyer and more unusual visitors like squid, octopus and even Spanish dancers at your glass panes.
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Food for survival, a mobile for connectivity and a kayak, snorkel and ns for added aqua fun are provided.
changing each year. Besides bedrooms, there is a bar, with glasses made of ice and an ice chapel. The structure remains in the temperature around −5 °C. When spring comes, everything melts away and returns to the Torne River.
Ice Swimming @ Finland Want to improve blood circulation, alleviate aches, strengthen immune system, lower blood pressure and stress, then take a plunge into a frozen lake or a pool with a big hole cut in the thick ice as the outside temperature hovers over -4°C. The shock is unbelievable! Yet the surge of adrenaline running through your body is incredible. But those who believe in ultimate selfpampering, Finland is the place. Famous for its sauna culture, the country offers a twist- ice swimming or dip that follows every sauna session. Although you can walk to any lake with an ice pick and make a hole but for your own safety visit a local center. Helsinki alone has over a dozen iceswimming centers. The perfect season is from October to March.
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Free Dive @Dean’s Blue hole Sounds quite rhythmic, doesn’t it? Let the name not fool you nor its tropical location bewitch you! Dean's Blue Hole is deep, dark and intimidating. However, remember that courage leads one to unbelievable achievements! So if you are game for it, you can tame the world's deepest known seawater blue hole. All you have to do is learning to become a free diver. Well beating William Trubridge, who broke the unassisted record by diving 100 metres here in 2011, might not be possible. But still you can set your own record and tick your dare list. After all conquering the entire 203 metres of this light-andoxygen-deprived sinkhole isn’t an easy task.
Deepest stay @Sala Silver Mine Are you gutsy enough to dig into the abyss of the earth? Then book a stay in world’s only and the deepest suite located 155 metres in the ground. Offering an unmatched level of excitement and mystery, it is set in a former silver mine known as Sala Silver Mine, in Sweden which was operational for centuries. The whole experience consists of taking a tour of the mine and learning about silver mining, as well as the stay. The feeling of descending deep into the underground, spending a night in complete silence and solitude, is surely not for the most faint-hearted. It is cold, damp and dark, but very beautiful and there is no compromise on comfort factor.
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Icehotel @Sweden You might not be a great acionado of ice and snow, still you can go for it. Stay at least one night in the Icehotel, world's rst and biggest ice hotel spread over 6,000 square metres. What surprises you is the fact that this property in the village of Jukkasjärvi, Sweden, since its opening in 1990, has been built from scratch each year from December to April. The hotel, including the chairs and beds, is constructed from snow and ice blocks taken from the Torne River and annually artists are invited to create different rooms and decorations. So its architecture keeps
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Fishy Stay@ Conrad, Maldives It is natural to sleep under star-lled sky! But how about sleeping in a place with a transparent roof and wall of live shes all around? Not a dream! You can very well experience this.
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Thanks to Conrad's signature Ithaa Restaurant which gives guests a chance to spend a night under water in the "Suite." Set almost 16 ft below the Indian Ocean's surface, it offers one-of-its-kind experience as thousands of sh swim across the 180-degree-arched glass ceiling. This suite for two is available for only one night of a guest's stay. The experience comes with a private champagne dinner and breakfast in bed. Run with the bulls @Pamplona, Spain Perhaps one of the most talked about. No other feat can make your adrenaline rush like the fear of being gored and trampled by a gigantic bull. This peculiar sport is spread all over the world, but the biggest Running of the Bulls event occurs during the nine-day festival in San Fermin (July 6-14) in Pamplona, Spain. Not one but 15 bulls
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charge through the streets of the old city, to be herded into the bull ring. Be one among the many who run with the bulls down a half-mile stretch. Each run lasts for two to three minutes. Don’t bother even if you are a bit slow in building guts because it is repeated seven consecutive mornings sharp at 8 am. Beware, there are death records too. Ostrich race @ Oudtshoorn, South Africa Horse racing is cliché, try an ostrich instead. Don’t restrict your imagination to the bird and its eggs being served on your plate, as a ride on it can satiate your adventure hunger. Although it takes quite a skill to ride it but amateurs are welcome to try their luck in Oudtshoorn. This semi-desert area of South Africa has over hundreds of ostrich farms, the right places to master riding this large, ightless bird weighing over 120 kg which can run at 70 kmph. Beware, it kicks forward, not backward, and its claws are sharp enough to inict wounds. Practise religiously for a couple of days and if you are feeling quite condent, there are regular races to be enjoyed as well. Leaving them to the professional ostrich jockeys might seem sensible, but who is here to think. Moreover with grit you can give them a tough competition too!
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Cage Death @Australia Did you ever imagine that you could have a face-off with some of the biggest saltwater crocodiles and still stay alive to tell the tale? Perhaps at Cage of Death of Crocosaurus Cove, Darwin Crocodile Park you can! Thanks your stars, as you are separated by a couple inches of glass cage which can accommodate two people at a time. This 15-minutes-longadventure begins by submersing the cage directly into their environment; the thrill is raised as you are submersed into three different enclosures for ve minutes apiece. Watch these magnicent beasts glide around your cage. The crocs have names Chopper, Denzel, Houdini and Bess and all have their own unique style. You may be amazed to meet them but you cannot be sure if the feeling is mutual. Keep up a smiling face, as an onsite photographer will capture 360degree views of you and the crocs!
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Canoeing@ Big Banana Falls Aqua adventure lovers, you must have tried Kayaking. But if you have the valour, then we have the paramount venue! Legend kayaker Rafa Ortiz had taken the plunge plummeting down tackling the enormous 128.6-foot Big Banana Falls in Mexico this year. To reach the waterfalls itself is a task as one has to trek through ve miles of steaming jungle. It is not just about the steep descent and bursting out through the water before the daunting dive, even the bottom of the fall has swirling whirlpool. Of course Rafa is a Red Bull freestyle kayaker and one of the only four people in the world to tackle a plus 100-foot waterfall, but you can keep up your practice with smaller waterfalls. Lucky enough to have your heart still beating, one day you can share the same wall of fame with him!
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Humpback Whale Watching @ Maui Looking them on television screen can be fun. But the same cannot be said about watching these 50’ long and over 30 tons mammals at close counters. Treat
yourself to the scenic ocean views as expert guides take you to the best spots to observe these ‘big guys’ playfully surfacing, tail slapping, or blowing spouts in the air. Yes we are talking about the Humpback whales. Among all Maui in Hawaii is the ideal getaway, where the great herd of North Pacic Humpbacks has been growing in numbers in recent years. Start your voyage each year from November to May with the peak of the season being from January to March. There are boat tours and whale watching cruises as well.
Deadly Climb @Helmcken Falls If you are the one who feels climbing rocks and mountains is boring then hold your breath. Your endurance and courage is at the highest peak if you dare to take this task. It got the tag of world’s toughest and most epic climb. It’s none other than the terrifying Helmcken Falls in Canada. Most tourists see it in summer. However, a winter visit is worthwhile and narrates a different story. Towering at 450 feet high, it is not just any other waterfall, but one among the few whose cascade never freezes completely; rather it sprays the adjacent walls with a blanket of ice. Massive icicles hang dangerously over climbers’ heads like giant ice daggers and there are ice cones that can grow up to 160 foot-tall shooting from the waterfalls’ base in the winter. Will Gadd, early this year conquered the stunning tower of rock and ice. You can be the next!
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VIZAG
A-MEET OF DESIGNS By Ranita Ray
Shoot by Dhana Vijay
H
e has blended his passion and expertise and turned them into a brand and a platform from where he has launched himself. And now he is a maestro. He has designed commercial and residential interiors, right from hotel ambiences ofď€ ces to luxury homes and came up with plausible solutions to innumerable challenges buildings throw up when they go for renovation. He is involved in many prestigious projects and his designing prowess has been lauded and appreciated. His list of accolades includes First Runner-up award for Best Hospitality Design in the state for 'Over the Moon' lounge bar (2013) and First Runner-up award for Best Apartment Design (united Andhra Pradesh- 2014) from the Institute of Indian Interior Designers, Hyderabad. It was a well spent Saturday morning with Ameet Mirpuri. We had a tete-a-tete with this affable young designer at his cozy bachelor pad created by none other than himself. Read on to know more about his thoughts on design and his ď€ rm.
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Dawn of Designing Designs and the art of designing always fascinated me. If you ask me whether interior designing is something that is in my blood or is it something that I learnt; like everything in the “nature vs. nurture” debate, I think it is both. The prime reason is 50-year-old Eastern Art Museum owned by my grandfather the late Mr.Ramchand Mirpuri. My father, Mr.Prem Mirpuri sustained my interest as I grew up watching him putting his heart and soul in keeping the charm of this arty store. He is more into furniture manufacturing. It really moulded my creative bone. I obtained business management degree from the GITAM University and faced with the inevitable question - what next? My mind was ambivalent about choosing fashion or interior designing. The interest towards the latter ignited when I worked with my father for a year and this practical training gave me a direction. It was time for a formal course in interior designing. I pursued it in Pune in 2002-2004. These two years with around 16 hours of daily hard work put me on the right track. No bragging, but I topped the Maharashtra Technical Board in the subject. Genesis of Design Studio I came back in 2004 and Design Studio was born in my garage. We started doing consultancy and taking up orders for designing. Our work orders grew over the years and our ofce got better and bigger. From the garage to a rented space and now it is located in one of the most vantage points on Samapath Vinayak Temple Road. It has grown by leaps and bounds. There is certainly ‘no looking back’.
Like any other beginner I struggled a lot in my nascent phase! From travelling in train in second class to Hyderabad, Bangalore and Delhi for work to ferrying material in autorickshaws, I did everything. Today I have graduated to international ights to countries like China and Dubai, where I have developed personal rapport with the merchants and suppliers. There is a great improvement as regards to clients’ approach too. They are better exposed, in case they are not, they are candid enough to say, “You have better exposure, so you do it your way’! Thus, I enjoy the complete carte blanche given by my clients. Mirpuri’s Mark “Your creations always emanate positive vibes, Ameet,” is what I am being told by my clients and onlookers as well. It is a great compliment. My designs reect clean lines and a ‘feel good factor’. I don’t go by what looks good, for me it should feel nice, cozy and fresh. My focus remains on creating spaces that harmonise with the surroundings. At the same time, I prefer natural elements to metal or glass in my creations. Although I create a mental blueprint of the project and the required things to attain it, I am neither rigid nor scared to change my mind, if the option the client gives is better than mine. Ultimately they are going to live there, not me. Giving preference to their choices has its own advantage. It brings individuality and makes each project different from the other, without appearing identical.
Defining Moment With my father being in the similar business, I had a ready base of prospective clients. Thus, the response was always decent. It won’t be wrong to say that we didn’t really do anything substantial in the rst couple of years. The years 2005-2006 proved to be a turning point in my career. This is when I got the order of designing the Palm Beach Hotel and I learned a lot from Mr. Bajaj, the owner. He is a great art lover and working with him itself was nothing less than a creative pursuit. The other major breakthrough was the high-end abode of Mr.Ram Bramham in Dutt Island. He gave me a free hand and the result was a spectacular property. These two projects changed the outlook of the people towards me and they started taking me seriously. Transformation Things have changed greatly over the years and of course for better. I started with a team of four, i.e. me, dad and two draftsmen. I still remember that many a time I had to do the texturing on the walls with my own hands. Now, we are a team of 15, with junior interior designers, technical heads, supervisors, draftsmen, 3D artists and project coordinators. There are also around 150 workers who chip in on contract or project basis. I can now with condence say we are a lot more organised. Currently we handle a diverse array of projects including luxury residences, boutiques, retail commercial places, ofces and hotels. However, I never followed any worked out strategies to accomplish all this. It is only through my work, I reached here.
When it is about colours, I am certainly bold. I am not scared of them at all.
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Aesthetic-driven or Practical-driven I believe in striking a balance between both. Though it is ideal to bestow 50:50, I give more weight to practicality. For example in a city like Vizag with humid and sultry weather conditions, anything requires proper maintenance. My clients never complained that my projects are difcult to maintain. I want them to sit, walk or live in comfort. The space or the designs shouldn’t constantly remind you of dos and don’ts- like one should not be apprehensive about leaning against a wall here or placing a hand on a facade there. Thus all my projects are purely functional besides being aesthetically impressive. They are childproof too! (laughs).
My designs reflect clean lines and a ‘feel good factor’. I don’t go by what looks good, for me it should feel nice, cozy and fresh.
Best Project It is very difcult to answer. You will get me shot dead. Taking a single name is tough, as I throw my heart into each one of them. A few houses and restaurants are dear to me. Without being partial I would say two such projects are Over the Moon in Hyderabad and Varun Novotel Hotel in Vizag. The owner of Over the Moon was already in hospitality industry with good exposure and he knew what he wanted. To deliver that, we had to really toil hard. I remember in six-seven months we worked and presented not less than 70-75 3D views to get the end product right. I have never made so many 3D presentations for any other client. But the results are here. That place has changed the entire clubbing scenario of Hyderabad. I got awards and had been featured in the media for it. The client was equally demanding in case of Novotel. I have learned many things while working on it. The property today speaks for the quality of my work. Handling Tricky Clients Men are more liberal than woman clients with regards to granting us freedom. It also depends on how well they know the subject. Let me admit that I used to get stressed out when clients wanted a little change or rejected my designs. But, soon I learnt how to deal with it maturely and remain unaffected. Now, I bow to clients’ demands and pander to their wishes. I try to understand their concepts and present them the way they want. Of course, not without giving the nal touch of my personal or signature stroke. They don’t mind this deco!
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Design Dare When it is about colours, I am certainly bold. I am not scared of them at all. Colours instil life. It is not just working on my own projects alone. There are occasions when I am being hired by my interior designer friends. One such instance was for a beautifully designed hotel in Kochi. It was a bare property done with only beige and wood. With my touch of tints I could transform it into a lively space. I add colours through accessorising the space with them. One must know how to balance them. Randomly splashing them won’t do any good. I have used hues like shocking pink, vibrant blues, gorgeous green in houses. I had a client who fell in love with a yellow leather couch. Usually the image of this coloured product begets a shocking reaction. You won’t believe I designed the entire décor around this. Finally it turned out to be a package of a blue table, black and white paintings, yellow couch and pink cushions. And it is the same project where my magical “Mirpuri Touch of colours” had earned me awards. Greatest Threat Becoming monotonous! To guard against this, one needs to constantly update oneself. To be in this trade, upgrading your skills is a must. Thus, in 2009 I did a short course in ‘Lighting, Interior and Showroom Designing’ from the Institute of European Design, Milan, which I topped. One should get exposed to the latest happenings. However, it doesn’t mean following trends. I don’t do it that way. I honestly feel trends are shortlived. For example, you start a project following the ‘in-things’, by the time you complete it, a year is over and the trend is gone. Thus, one needs to create his or her own ideas by drawing inspiration from experience and exposure. One must constantly evolve in his own creative thought process.
Dream Project I shouldn’t turn down work; ultimately it’s my bread and butter. But I have my preferences and inclinations. I have worked on ofces, but my heart lies in designing residential and hospitality projects. I enjoy doing lounge bars, restaurants and hotels. Aiming at I want to keep up good work and get noticed pan India. It won’t be exaggerating if I say that I lost many projects, only because I hail from Vizag. I like to pass this message across to the people of bigger cities that there is someone from a small town with a big creative mind. I am sure my work will shut their mouths. Expansion of Eastern Art Museum is on the anvil and soon you will see an expansive store. Signing Off Note I found my calling, which is why I enjoy my work. Creativity should spring from heart not from mind. This is my piece of advice to all budding talents who want to enter any creative eld. Have a breathing time as well. Cut off yourself from work and spend time to live well. Only then your designs will be fresh. RATE CARD How do you rate yourself on the scale of 10? Stating that he is his biggest critic of himself, a humble Amit retorts, “This is the worst thing to ask anyone. Yet I shall oblige.”
DESIGNER:6 | PR:6 | CREATIVEPERSON:6 TRENDSETTER:6 | HUMAN BEING:7
Rewards The greatest reward is the nal product which brings the wow feeling to my clients. Besides this, I am basically a social person, which works fantastic for me. It has developed good PR effortlessly. It also makes my clients comfortable working with me. My strength is my repeat clients. My best houses are the ones, where the owners have left it to my discretion and they have become good friends too. It is no less than a reward! Your Idol “It’s none other than my dad. He got an amazing taste for art and designs. He has a keen eye for detail.” Besides him, I also get inspired by the works of ace Indian designers like Anshul Chodha and Sandeep Khosla. Your Muse & Motivation It could be anything, a dress, a painting, a book cover! A couple of days ago I designed an entire restaurant around a picture of Ikkat fabric stool I saw in a magazine. Trust me it turned out to be one-of-its-kind creations I have ever seen. Reaction to imitation When your designs are copied, that is the biggest compliment any designer would ever get! But you shouldn’t repeat your own ideas. The creation should be interesting and different each time.
The space or the designs shouldn’t constantly remind you of dos and don’ts.
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HYDERABAD
of radition
By Sumana Reddy
T
his skilled designer revived traditional handlooms and transformed them into fineries that are now in vogue. He also helped the weavers’ community in securing their fort which was losing its ground to the fast growing machine-driven industry. His tool is ‘Gaurang’, the fashion house he founded. It is a brand that conceives beauty and elegance. The technique it adopts is of ‘Jamdani’ weaving, which is done with pure Zari on cottons and silks. Shoot by Dinakar Pamu
Among his myriad magical creations, is the latest sensation Chitr-Sena, his line for LFW 2014. It features traditional motifs garuda, rudraksh, hamsa, shikarga, sher, bhagha, haathi, morni, and shikari woven in Kanchipuram silk dupattas and saris in a distinctive fashion. The glamour of this industry couldn’t daze his vision and the fame couldn’t overpower his modesty. Here is a designer who did not take the help of skin show to climb the ladder of success. His models commend him as the only designer who covers them fully. He admits with a tongue-in-cheek comment, “Hum labour class hain, humko labour class hi rehena chahiye.”
Inimitable Style His creations cater to women of all ages. The reason is he designs them according to his customer’s taste but not for the ramp. “Unlike the rest who sell designs that are different from the ones that are projected in shows, my creations are open for one and all.” For Gaurang obviously ‘imitation is not the best form of attery’. He goes to any extent to arrest imitation. “My saris are unique with striking design element, colour scheme and texture. If I nd my designs are being copied, I stop the production of my originals and go for further improvisation. It is a challenge for
Read on to learn about his journey, his future plans and what it is really like to start out in the fashion industry.
A few years ago the weavers’ community was going through an extremely bad patch. Many of them were mired in debt traps. It was heartbreaking to hear about hunger deaths and we even heard of the cases of poverty-stricken weavers committing suicides. The plight of the weavers was attributed to the rising popularity of chiffons and georgettes. That was when Gaurang took up the challenge of reviving the traditional handlooms and the weavers’ lives. It took years of arduous work to get the industry back on its feet.
Fashion Week This cerebral designer, known for his colour drama on the ramp, actuated the season’s Lakme Fashion Week with saris in chocolate brown, navy, grey and dark green shades with orescent borders, gradually moving to the bright hued outts. “I had a fabulous experience and favourable response this season! Shubha Mudgal’s live recital electried my show. I launched a new type of handloom called Chanderi Organza, which is the latest texture in Kanjeevaram.” Acionados were looking forward to his unique collection and true to their conjecture Gaurang had them applauding to his creations. As he felt that the models were not able to carry off the six yards on ramps, he focused more on outts other than saris. “I used saris instead of dupattas over outts and draped them over in such a way that it formed a sweeping trail! That way, my saris as well as dresses were being displayed at the same time. This was different from what I did earlier.” He very tactfully ducks the question about his best showstopper and comments, “Be it Kiron Kher, Tapsee or Chitrangadha, every showstopper is great and good in her own way.”
me get an in-depth knowledge of textures and fabrics. I developed better understanding of colours and I could match the blouse and sari perfectly selecting the right shades. This was when I got interested in the world of fashion. I joined my father's business and in 1999 and opened an exclusive store for saris. I identied a weaver from Uppada in Andhra Pradesh, to source saris. I found that people were not interested in the saris that were being produced there as the fabric was not good and the colour combination, dull. Nobody wanted to wear them. So, I spoke to the weavers and we changed the whole fabric and made the design more contemporary, colourful and very bright. Gradually, I started innovating on the material and design,” he says.
Gaurang has a word of praise for weavers who collaborate with him. His endeavour in generating work for them was well rewarded with their positive response. He commends the weavers for their right attitude, enthusiasm to change, learn and experiment with creative designs. me and my weavers too. We think of the next level and give more intricate motifs and patterns or change the texture.” Other designers, who were previously into chiffons, georgettes and nets, also started using handlooms and are working with weavers. But this does not stop Gaurang from innovating further in handlooms. Roaring Rise “When I was 12, I used to help my father in his business after my school hours. He had a store, the Indian Saris Emporium in Basheerbagh. Even now I remember how I used to sell 2x2 blouse pieces, poplin for petticoats and sari falls. This helped
Propounding his unwavering love for khadi, Gaurang says that he has decided to preserve this essence of true India for future generations. Leaving no stone unturned, he devoted all his resources and energy towards creating this goal. Khadi was a fabric that was popularised by the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi during India's independence movement. Though gloried with patriotic fervour by all the Gandhians, the fabric has many limitations as its texture is coarse and there is not much of variety in designs and colours. But Gaurang, working with specially trained weavers, has brought in revolutionary changes and adopted it to the modern ramps of fashion.
Everyday is a challenge for me and my weavers. We have to think beyond and reach to the next stage.
My designs are for my customers, not for models on the ramp.
Inspiration and Incorporation The traditional and contemporary saris reected his designs that are often inspired by the Mother Nature and native arts. Different shapes and colour combinations from the environment as well as motifs and carvings from his antique collections are his inspirations. Hence it is little wonder his brand remains exclusive. “Every piece that I create is my best work including my Kanjeevarams, Paithanis and the Khadi. Not so many were wearing Khadi until I revamped it! And now everybody is mad after it.” Initial Challenges “Whenever I gave an intricate design, the weavers would doubt its feasibility. My idea was to create huge borders that were seen some 70 years ago. But I had to make do with thinner borders, which were in trend. Added to the issue was the unavailability of the quality of silk and zari I wanted to use,” explained Gaurang when asked about the hurdles he had to face to establish the brand. “The brand’s saleability had its own challenges. Fashion industry is such a huge market that people have an array of choices including duplicates, which are available at half the rates. But fortune
favoured me. I manage to attract sizeable clientele. The credit should also be given to the high quality I offer.” “Every day is a challenge for me! (laughs). Every time I get a parcel from the weavers, I am all eager to see how my drawings took shape.” Gaurang is rightfully proud of the honour of representing India at the EcoDesigners Lavera Showoor in Berlin. The show was one of the biggest eco and sustainable fashion events in the world. "The organisers of Berlin Fashion Week liked our collection in LFW, especially our creations in khadi, blended and woven with nature as background. They thought my work perfectly weaves into their idea of eco-friendliness in fashion," he told a leading daily. Future Plans “We are expanding! We recently opened four new stores in different parts of the country and we have plans for another one in Delhi. By targeting Dubai we are going international very shortly.” Fashion Tips Gaurang asserts that copying others is the biggest fashion faux pas one could ever make. “Be comfortable in what you
wear and don’t go by what Deepika Padukone slips on! She’s thin, tall and good looking but we are ourselves and different! (laughs) Be sari-savvy that is safer anytime!” Hyderabad the Best “I was born and raised in Hyderabad and I love this place. This city will be my karmabhumi till my last breath. ” Sign Off Statement “I wish to promote sari and handlooms. I feel sari is the most beautiful outt a woman can don and adorn her beauty with! This six-yard wonder never fails to fascinate me and gives me a larger space to create. The short fabric restricts the horizon of creativity. A woman looks more sensual in a sari than in a short dress and the models, sans any skin show, prove it effortlessly at my shows.” Rate Card Rate yourself on a scale of 10 As a Designer:10 Philanthropist: 8 Style icon: NA Trendsetter: 10 Human being: 10
Vizag
Name: Monica Srivastava Age: 23 Height: 5’7’’ Weight: 50 kg VS: 32-25-34 Striking Features: Eyes & Hair Role Model: Deepika Padukone
Y T U A
Hair & Make up: Raju Costume: Monica
E B Y A B
ay
nita R
By Ra
S
he might be comparatively new to the eld, but her list of achievements is impressive. From ramp shows, print ads to the coveted IPL 2014 ad, she has done them all. An MBA degree holder, she is a perfect example of beauty with brain.
FORAY: OUT OF INTEREST
COMPLIMENT: NATURAL BEAUTY
DEBUT: AS SHOWSTOPPER AT COLLEGE’S FASHION SHOW
CRITICISM: BETTER BE IGNORED
DURATION: 8MONTHS
FQ: WORKING OUT
OBSERVATION: YET TO BE EXPLORED
FASHION: CLOTHES MAKE THE MODEL
BEFORE: SIMPLE
AMBITION: MISS INDIA & GREAT ACTRESS
AFTER: VIBRANT & THRILLING
ASSETS: COMMITMENT
GENRE: FASHION & COMMERCIAL
LENSMAN Holder of a Master’s Degree in Film &Theatre Art from Vancouver Film School. He started his career by assisting Nandini Redy for Ala Modalaindi. He worked on film projects like Jabardasth, Autonagar Surya & Nagarjuna’s Bhai and right now he is working as an Associate to Director Pavan Sadineni on his upcoming flick Savithri. Films is his profession & photography passion!
CLICK START: OUT OF CURIOSITY IN PROFESSION: 3 YEARS FIRST SHOT: FLORA & FAUNA BEST SHOT: OF A NEWBORN EDGE: FREEZING THOUGHTS IN CAMERA PHOTOGRAPHY: THE PERSONAL SPACE TO CREATE SOMETHING POSITIVE AND CREATIVE DREAM: TO BE A SUCCESSFUL FILMMAKER & TO CONTINUE AS A PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER
Name: Vamsi Krishna Varma K. Age: 26 Equipped with: A Range of Cameras & Lenses (Vintage & Contemporary) Genre: Fashion, Glamour & Product Beyond Camera: Travel & Watch Movies Role Model: Mario Testino & Steve McCurry
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Hyderabad
Name: Monika Thangalapalli Age- 21 years Height- 5’ 9” Weight- 54 Kg VS: 34-26-35.5 Striking Feature - Eyes Role Model: Alesia Raut
A L G
L R I G M a By Ranit
Ray
Designer - Raam Jeebu Hair & Make Up – Varonica
A
talent from Hyderabad, settled in Mumbai now, this PYT just kills with her looks. It's not all glamour. The diva is a computer science engineer. Initially groomed by Renu Sukheja, she honed her skills under Shakir Shaik and Prasad Bidappa.
CHOICE: REALISING RAMP DREAM FORAY: 12TH STANDARD DURATION: 18 MONTHS OBSERVATION: BETTER & MORE PROFESSIONAL BEFORE: SIMPLE, STUDIOUS AND JOYFUL AFTER : FOCUSED & STRONG GENRE: FASHION, RUNWAY & COMMERCIAL BEAT COMPLIMENT: PRAISE FOR INNER GOODNESS CRITICISM: TAKE IT IN THE RIGHT SPIRIT FQ: GYMMING HARD & EATING RIGHT FASHION: MY REFLECTION AMBITION: SHHHHH! ASSETS: SELF-CONFIDENCE
LENSMAN Driven by passion, he has made his mark in the vast eld of fashion. Within a short span he has clicked top celebrities like super models Carol Gracias, Noyonika Chatterjee, Freddy Daruwala, Amit Ranjan, Syed Zul, Meer Ali and actors like Harshvardhan Rane and Madhurima and many more. His FB page is swollen with over 30,000 likes.
Click Start: With a basic DSLR as a hobby
Name
: Paul David Martin
Age
: 28
Equipped with
: Canon Mark lll 5D
Genre
: Fashion
Beyond camera :Movies & social media
In Profession: 2 years First & Best: Of Rohit Khandelwal, Ace Model
like FB & Instagram Role Model
: Father
Worst Shot: Beautiful model’s picture, poorly-edited Edge: Style & Expression Photography: God’s blessing that brought name, fame and money Dream: Shoot for Vogue and GQ cover page & to be world renowned
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VIZAG
THE LAST EVENING @CHROME Almost a decade-old-bond came to an end, when the second home of many Vizagites, i.e. hosted its last evening. With teary eyes its loyalists thronged to cheer the man behind the most happening pub of the city, Srinivas Reddy. The aura of the evening was nostalgic. To a few, it granted friends who bonded over a drink, to a few others it got them their soul-mates while shaking a step on the dance oor and to all it gave those uncountable happy memories for life. Great music, food, ambience and like-minded revellers all made sure that the guests had the craziest time. The evening showed how popular Chrome was, as fans from all walks of life were seen on the spot who enjoyed the last night full of joy and entertainment as if they never had before.
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@VUE The revellers got drenched in all the possible hues of fun as they partied at Varun Novotel, Vue. Dressed up in their best of the neries, they were seen bonding over the chitchat, music, food and a bit of heady drinks too. Behind the console was popular DJ, Rahul, who played some phenomenal music to make sure that the guests had a fun time on the dance oor.
COMEDY NIGHTS @TRIBE Following the overwhelming response to its rst comedy show, city’s new local English Standup Comedy Group, Vizag Komedians, hosted Vizag Komedians Open Mic Nights. Tribe of The Park, was chosen as the venue. Raouf Gangjee, the founder of the group hosted the programme and gave a brilliant opening with his signature style of standup comedy. The show intended to hunt for fresh talent and young contestants from and around the city performed for two minutes each. However, the highlight of the evening was the hour-long hilarious performance by Atul Khatri who left the audience in stitches with his jokes on food, Big B, concept of return gifts and a lot on adult comedy. This 40-plus guy from Mumbai is rated by CNN-IBN as one of India’s best comedians. He was a computer engineer and a British management scholar who gave up his glamourous profession for his new found passion.
HYDERABAD
SURPRISE PARTY Friends shrieked ‘surprise’ at Purushottam Patel’s 50th birthday celebrations at Taj Vivanta . This birthday bash was a gift by the Stellar brothers Dinesh, Ramesh and Sonu Patel to the gentleman on his birthday. His pals shook a leg to the Bollywood beats and let their hair down catching up over drinks. This memorable birthday gift was graced by family and friends and spotted at the gala were Alankrita, Vipin, Anurodh, Mehul, Bhavna, Kiran, Deepali, Sirisha, Mansi, Ruchi and Prerna.
SURPRISE PARTY Friends shrieked ‘surprise’ at Purushottam Patel’s 50th birthday celebrations at Taj Vivanta . This birthday bash was a gift by the Stellar brothers Dinesh, Ramesh and Sonu Patel to the gentleman on his birthday. His pals shook a leg to the Bollywood beats and let their hair down catching up over drinks. This memorable birthday gift was graced by family and friends and spotted at the gala were Alankrita, Vipin, Anurodh, Mehul, Bhavna, Kiran, Deepali, Sirisha, Mansi, Ruchi and Prerna.
CANCER (June 21 - July 20) ARIES (March 21-April 20) Luck keeps changing for the better as the year progresses. Achievement on the professional front becomes your potent weapon in impressing the higher ups. Good performance keeps you in contention for something important on the academic front. Shifting residence on transfer is foreseen. Success is in the offing for traders trying to establish themselves. Travelling is foreseen. Increase in finances is indicated. You are in a generous mood and may be inclined to splurge on others. Lucky for you: 22, sky blue
TAURUS (April 21-May 22) Though it is well worth the effort, house renovation proves energy sapping. On the academic front, much blood and sweat are required before you get to enjoy the fruits of labour. Monetary constraints force you to shelve the plan to visit someone overseas. Someone of the opposite sex whom you know for long may try to come closer. Avoid roadside food to save yourself from the seasonal ailments. This is a lovely month and you look more energetic. Lucky for you: 8, electric grey
GEMINI (May 23 - June 20) You should get into the groove and take things as they come. An achievement on the academic front boosts your self-esteem. Proving your mettle in a challenging environment at the workplace is indicated. You will be in an upbeat mood, as some good news is indicated on the social front. Spending time with family on a vacation is indicated. Communication skills are excellent and your optimism and idealistic views will rub off on others. Positive thoughts will bring positivity to your environment Lucky for you: 6, sea green
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A new project will prove most interesting and get you totally involved. Getting into the groove of things on the professional front is foreseen. Students should need guts and determination to cope with new subjects. Turning the domestic environment in your favour is foreseen. Friends circle is set to increase for some. Health remains good and romance figures in your list of priorities. Parting with a large amount of cash is indicated. As there is no choice, don’t get upset over the loss. Lucky for you: 3, cream
LEO (July 21 - Aug 22) A fruitful trip leaves you completely satisfied. Your efficiency in handling the workload set an example for others at the workplace. Praise for something you have achieved on the academic front is indicated. Finances are handled well and investments done wisely. Your love interest will reciprocate. Irregular timings may play havoc with your health. Take time to chat with friends and family about a new opportunity. Success is foreseen in your field. Lucky for you: 17, lavender
VIRGO (Aug 23 - Sept 22)
SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 - Dec 20)
Intimate moments with the beloved help strengthen your bonds. Be clear of your objective on the professional front, so as not to get caught on the wrong foot by higher ups. You should be a bit firm to ensure peace and quiet on the domestic front. Visiting a fun place is on the cards that promises much enjoyment. Changes are initiated at home. Kids and youngsters provide you a great source of pleasure. Despite busy schedule you thoroughly enjoy their company.
Picking up the threads from where you had left will not be as difficult as you had thought. Previous efforts on the professional front may come to fruition now. Efforts should be made to overcome a competitive situation on the academic front. Though soaring expenses cause an alarm, you are capable of stabilizing the situation. It is time to become more social. A piece of fitness equipment may get into disuse, as you find it too strenuous! Beware of those who are jealous of your success at the workplace.
Lucky for you: 2, yellow
Lucky for you: 2, pink
LIBRA (Sept 23 - Oct 22) SCORPIO (Oct 23 - Nov 21) Spirituality may hold special interest for you at this stage. Efforts on the work front are appreciated and some more responsibilities may be given. This is the time to bring some method on the academic front. A few may have to temporarily part ways with the family. Love is likely to blossom as the one you like may reciprocate. Youngsters are likely to miss out on fun. Plans to acquire an asset should be reviewed. Shifting to a new house is foreseen.
An enjoyable evening is in the offing on the domestic front with near and dear. Seize the opportunity to make your mark at the workplace. A minor financial setback may get you into the thinking mode. Those fearful about a journey will travel in comfort. No health problems are foreseen. Getting into the romantic mood is predicted. Playing the role of a peacemaker on the domestic front is foreseen. Lucky for you: 7, dark blue
CAPRICORN (Dec 21 - Jan 20) Focus is on to build relationships and mend broken fences. Have a dogged determination to achieve your goal. Prospects on professional front are likely to brighten. Since money comes from unexpected sources, financial worries remain a thing of past. Those with spiritual mind are at peace. A family youngster may require motivation and direction, so remain supportive. Continuing an exercise regimen is found to be difficult. Money comes from an unexpected source. Feeling emotionally secure in yourself is foreseen. Lucky for you: 6, coffee
Lucky for you: 11, silver
AQUARIUS (Jan 21 - Feb 18) Hobbies and various other exciting pastimes attract you. Being too protective of someone draws you flak on the family front. Don’t lose your cool while calling a spade a spade at the workplace. Good networking helps you out of a tight spot. No financial worries are foreseen. Health-wise you remain fit as a fiddle. Interference in your love life is predicted. Job issues top your priority list. Getting annoyed and some discord at the workplace are likely. Travelling on job work is indicated. Lucky for you: 17, bottle green
PISCES (Feb 18 - March 20) A feedback at the workplace helps you in planning ahead. Innovative ideas earn you laurels from the higher-ups and add to your professional reputation. You will find yourself on the top on the academic front. Previous investments yield you handsome returns. A love at first sight situation may develop soon. A trip on vacation is on the anvil. Work is first and foremost on your mind. Some information comes to your rescue in a heated argument with a senior at the workplace. Lucky for you: 18, purple red | october 2014 | 205
VIZAG Adventure Sports Bunkers N Bunkers Vizag’s First “PAINTBALL ARENA” Near Senora Beach Resort, Sagar Nagar, Vizag - 17 Ph: 9959849922 / Facebook.com/bunkersnbunkers Advertising agency KBGS The Advertisers Newspaper - TV - Radio Siripuram towers, Siripuram, Opp: HSBC call centre,Vizag Ph. 8008 550351,352 & 353 Air Conditioners Ramcor Enterprises Pvt Ltd/ Cool Concepts Authorised Sales & Service Dealers for Air Conditioners (Voltas / Daikin / Panasonic / Lloyd / Samsung / Water Coolers / Deep Freezers / Bottle Coolers) - 12-1-18, Waltair Main Road, Beside Hotel Green Park Vizag - 2. M : 9848778771 / 9848778775 / 9848778681 / 9912796400 / T : 0891 - 2706825 / 2706037 Branch Off : Fort Gate, Rajamundry T : 0883 - 2476360 Apparel Kankatala Textiles Pvt. Ltd. VSquare Mall, Dwarakanagar, Visakhapatnam - 530 016. T: 0891 6633336 Panache By The Raymond Shop D.No: 30-15-163, Ground Floor, E.J.Periera Manor, Dabagardens, Visakhapatnam - 530020, T: 0891-6536666, Siripuram Fort, Waltair Uplands Road, VSP-530013 T: 0891-6532666
Sona (Extn.) Boutique #13-1-1c, St. Anthony Church Complex, Nr. Jagadamba Centre, Maharanipeta, Vizag - 530 002. T: 0891 2792407 Car Accessories Andhra Accessories (Andhra Ax) Jyothi Enclave, A-3, Ram Nagar, Beside Lions Club Visakhapatnam - 530 002. T: 0891 - 6617894 M : 9966202084 Catering & Cooking Services Srinivasa Catering & Cooking Service Our Services : Veg & Non Veg, South Indian & North Indian Door No. 21-29-8, Ganneru Street, Near Chinta Chettu, Vizag-01 T: Ch. Srinivas - 0891 2737430 / Ch. M. Raju - 9966664673 / Shyam - 9985988744 / Jana - 8790799799 Cell Shops Mobi Care Professional mobile phone service & training centre, Opp. Woodland showroom, 1st floor, Daba Gardens, Visakhapatnam - 530 020 T: 0891 6468887, 9392345123 New Raj Mobiles - Sales & Service H.O.: Opp. Wood Land Showroom, Beside Old Amaravathi Hotel, Dabagardens, Vizag. T: 0891-6646447 B.O.:Opp. Kanya Sri Kanya Theatre, Shop No.1, Aditya Lodge, Old Gajuwaka, Vizag. T: 0891-6646449 E Chilled Delights Baskin Robbins CMR Central Mall, Maddilapalem, Ground Floor, Varun Inox Mall, Beach Road, Visakhapatnam Confectioners
One Stop Family Store
Sri Vamsi Textiles Pvt Ltd Sarees / Salwars / Chudidhars / Readymades / Kidsware / Furnishings & Accessories #30-15-136, Lorven Plaza, Dabagardens, Visakhapatnam-530020 T:0891 6698888 E:sri_vamsi90@yahoo.com/ W: www.srivamsi.com Architecture Fourth Dimension Architecture Architecture|Planning|Interiors 8-1-86/12, #7, First Floor, Annapurna Complex, Peda Waltair, Visakhapatnam-17, T: 0891-6464169 M: 9885160036 E: harsha@4darch.in www.4darch.in Project Inc Architecture, Interiors, Landscape 101, Venu Regency Plaza, Beside Raghavendra Swamy Temple, Ramnagar, Vizag - 530 002. T: 0891 2568228, 9550036999 E: projectinc@ymail.com www.projectinc.in Beauty Bon Chic D.No. 55-10-32, HPCl Millinium Outlet, Siripuram, Visakhapatnam T: 0891-2733619, M: 7032662442 www.bonchic.co.in. Cute’s Beauty Clinic D.No.12-4-29, Opp. Vaartha, Jagadamba Junction, Vizag-3. T: 0891-6539485, Radhika / Bhavani : 9866051649 Boutique Aarna #7-19-2, Kirlampudi Layout, Behind Syndicate Bank, Chinna Waltair, Vizag. T: 0891-2549999 Blossoms - Exclusive Boutique for Women Near Sampath Vinayaka Temple, CBM Compound, Visakhapatnam. M: 9985334444, 9966682222 GORGEOUS boutique - Designer Sarees, Salwar Suits, Tunics and Bed Covers. Tailoring Available 11am to 8pm MVV Estates, Opp. Kotak School, Chinna Waltair, Vsp - 17 T : 0891 - 2727894 M : 9533308552
Bakers Castle Prasanna Foods: Siripuram Towers, Opp. HSBC, Next to Lee & Arrow, Siripuram, Visakhapatnam - 530 002. T: 0891 2578889, 9000008889, 0891 6690989 Near Rama Talkies, CBM Compound, Visakhapatnam - 530 003. T: 0891 2518000 Desi Delights Punjabi Grill & Mr & Mrs IDLY The famous Taste of Chawla’s Cream Chicken from Ludhiana @ Punjabi Grill (Lunch & Dinner 11am to 11pm), The Famous Taste of Chennai-South Indian Tiffins @ Mr & Mrs IDLY (7am to 12pm, 4pm to 8pm) at Fish Aquarium, Beside Kali Temple, R.K. Beach Road, Vizag. T: 0891-6625777/6625778 M: 9393116428/7569535851 Eat Fresh Sub Way Dutt Island, Siripuram - 0891-2784911 Event Managers Krosswire Entertainment Specalized in: Event Management • Artiste & Talent Management • Corporate Events • Theme Parties • Birthday Parties • Wedding Planning • DJ Parties • Product Launch & Promotions • Mall Activations • Fashion Shows • International Performers • Celebrity Endorsements etc. Visakhapatnam, Hyderabad, Vijayawada T: 9885118789, 9346997556 www.krosswire.com E: krosswire@gmail.com & info@krosswire.com
Razzmatazz Theme Decorations, Set Designs, Entertainment, Floral arrangements. You name it WE HAVE IT! T: 9052024650, 9348623223, razzrahul1@gmail.com, www.razzmatazz.in Florist & Decorator’s Sugandhikaa Theme party decoration’s, Wedding decoration’s, Birthday party decoration’s, Flower Bouquets, Gift & wedding packing Plot No.20, Daspalla Hill’s, Visakhapatnam. M: 9440731765, E: alkajaju@hotmail.com
Gifts & Handicrafts Eastern Art Museum #10-1-9/1, Waltair Uplands, Sampath Vinayak Temple Road, Visakhapatnam - 530 003. T: 0891 6647880 F: 0891 2562775 E: easternartmuseum@gmail.com Hair Transplantation Radha - International Institute of Hair Transplant #103, Siripuram Fort, Siripuram, Opp. Union Chapel Church, Vizag - 530 003 T: 0891 6458111, 9177777192 E: contact@hairclinicindia.com www.hairclinicindia.com Health & Fitness Deepa’s Total Fitness Add Life Premises, 1st Floor, Pandurangapuram Temple Road, Opp. Officers Club, Vizag. T: 9885674016 Homoeopathy Vandana Homoeopathic Hospital Shop no. 4, Dwarakanagar, 2nd Lane, Pavan Paradise, Opp. Pollocks School, Vizag - 530 016. T: 0891 2755747, 9948416772 Hotels Hotel Green Park Waltair Main Road, Visakhapatnam - 530 001. Ph: 0891 6615151 Hotel Meghalaya Dr. No. 10-4-15, Ramnagar, Asilmetta Junction, Visakhapatnam T: 0891 2755141 / 145 Novotel Beach Road, Vizag T: 1860 500 2020, +91 891 2822 222 E: h7535-re@accor.com, www.novotel.com The Palm Beach Nr. RK Beach, Waltair Uplands, Beach Road, Visakhapatnam T: 0891 2754026 / 27 The Dasapalla Suryabagh, Visakhapatnam. T: 0891 25564825 / 2563141 The Park Beach Road Visakhapatnam. T: 0891 Industrial Pipes & Valves M/s Preeti Tubes #28-16-12, Suryabagh, Visakhapatnam-20. T: 0891-2526062 M: 9849126062 E: sales@preetitubes.com M/s Menda Steels, Visakhapatnam. T: 0891-2506062 E: mendasteels@gmail.com Interior Design Studio - Interior designers & consultants C2, Aakruthi, 10-1-9, Waltair uplands, Visakhapatnam - 530 003. T: 0891 2561586 F: 0891 2562775 E: designstudio2000@hotmail.com, www.designstudiointeriors.in Project Inc Architecture, Interiors, Landscape 101, Venu Regency Plaza, Beside Raghavendra Swamy Temple, Ramnagar, Vizag - 530 002. T: 0891 2568228, 9550036999 E: projectinc@ymail.com www.projectinc.in International Couriers Sampath Vinayaka Express Services 47-10-37, Ratnadham Arcade, Dondaparthi Road, Near Diamond Park, Visakahapatnam - 530016 T: 0891-6636285, 6536880, M: 9291901303, Branch: 8-3-677/9, Plot No.:9, HDFC Atm Lane, Sri Krishna Devaraya Nagar Colony, Srinagar Colony Post, Yellareddyguda, Hyderabad - 5300073, M: 9299991539, E: krishna_kod@yahoo.co.uk Jewellery MVS. Jewel Park Ramatalkies Road, Vizag - 530 003. T: 0891 2509591/92/93 Kids Wear Hey Kiddo! Opp. St. Anthony Church, Jagadamba Centre, Hotel Green Park Road, Visakhapatnam-530002. T: 0891-2529898, M:9052529898
Lingerie Flames We Cover Your Bare Necessities Pavan Enclave, Opp. HDFC, Daba Gardens, Vizag - 530 020. T: 0891 6644455 E: flameslingerie@yahoo.co.in Inner Elegance Shop No.: 25, VUDA Complex, Siripuram Jn., Vizag - 530 003. T: 0891 6647882 Marbles Archean Granites & Italian Marbles #52-4-6, Resapuvanipalem, Beside CMR Central, Visakhapatam - 530 013. T: 0891 2753188, 9440190226 H.O: 151, Kamalapuri Colony, Near Srinagar Colony, Hyderabad - 500 073. T: 040 - 23547143, 9848055077 Mattresses Agarwal Home Comforts #48-18-75,Near Rama Talkies, Bullaya College Road, Vizag - 530 013. T: 0891 6637111, 9849577711 E: thevizag@gmail.com www.agarwalcomforts.com Real Estate Prasad's Township Pvt Ltd., #47-13-2, 2nd Floor, Lakshmi Arcade, Beside Sankaramatam, Dwarakanagar, VSP -16. NAD Jn. & Gajuwaka. Plot cost 99,000/for 100sq.yard & 200, 300, 400, 500, 1000 size Plots are available. Sreeram Nagar Layout Kothavalasa-Anandapuram road. a.kothapalli village, Devarapalli Mandalam, Visakhapatnam. T: 0891-2541229, 9912411477 Saloon ABDUL’S- Men Beauty Parlour & Family Salon Branches: A1 # 11-4-5/1, Shop No 4, Nowroji Road, Maharanipeta, Vizag - 2. T : 0891 - 2792812M : 9951173787. A2- Family Salon: # 58-01-336, 1st Floor, Near Bashyam Public School, Baji junction, Vizag - 02. T: 0891 - 6557737 www.abdulsthesaloon.in Avenue Hair & Beauty Unisex Salon Hair, Skin & Make-up Haritha Arcade # 10-50-54/1, Opp. Lions Club, Waltair Main Road, Ram Nagar, Vizag - 02. T : 0891-2520666, 8297120666 / 9966722395 Abhay Spikes The Men's Salon #24, Vuda Complex, Opp. Gurajada Kalashetram, Siripuram, Vizag - 530 001. T: 9885027449, 0891-2727449 Jawed Habib Hair & Beauty Ltd. For Men & Women #9-14-5, Praveen Plaza, VIP Road, Siripuram, Vizag - 530 003. T: 0891-2521142, 6667288, 8106788000 #58-14-51, Journalist Colony, Marripalem, Vizag - 530 009. T:0891-2780082 / 83 Well Groom - The Saloon Special packages for grooms Shop No: 4, Nr. HSBC, VUDA Complex, Siripuram, Vizag. T: 0891-6649488, 9849873999, www.wellgroom.in
Solar Systems Emandi Solar Systems #28-10-17/1, 2nd Floor, Emandi Lakshmi Towers, Suryabagh, Opp.GVMC, E-Seva, Vizag-530020. M: 9848197055, 9866444644, E: BORG@Emandi.IN & EKLRao@EmandiSolar.Com, WWW.EmandiSolar.Com Tours & Travels Travel Links D.No.30, Satya Surya Complex, Dwarakanagar, Vizag-16 T: 98483101117, 9246616117, 9246618117, E: priyatravellinks@yahoo.com
Siva Shakthi Travels VIZAG Near Laxmi Ganapathi Temple, Visakha Eye Hospital Down, Pedawaltair Main Road, VSP T: 0891-2743338, M: 9246433338, 9848211093 E: sivashakthitravelsvsp@gmail.com www.sivashakthitravelsvsp.in Web Design Colour Moon Technologies Pvt. Ltd., Website: www.thecolourmoon.com Email: info@thecolourmoon.com Mobile: 9885281291, 9676600666 Branches: Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada. Wedding Planners V-Team Wedding Management Theme Decor, Sets, Entertainment, Mehendi, Sangeeth, “A to Z� for any event. Veerumama: 9348143927. E: veerumama9@gmail.com, www.vizagno1.com
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2) A snail is at the bottom of a well 30 feet deep. It crawls up 3 feet each day,
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1) Simply push the cork into the bottle and shake the coin out. 2) 28 days. Once it reaches the top, it does not slip down 2 feet. 3) Throw the ball Straight up.