Vol 2 Issue No.8 June 2012 30 www.uniquetimes.org
TIMES
Entrepreneurship:
A WAY OF
LIFE
Our Increasing life expectancy & its challenges
V.P. Nandakumar MD & CEO Manappuram Finance Ltd.
22 Female Kochi: Interview with Riya
The city of Joy: Kolkota
Ayurveda’s
Role in Dealing with Diseases Caused by
Environmental
Pollution
Follow us on
Banking Debt Management Gift Card
Auto Piaggio Vespa ICML Rhino Rx-Delite Guide to buying a car
RNI No: KERENG/2011/42633
Cover Model: Aishwarya Muraleedharan Photo: Ansonfotos
Editorial
Vol 2 Issue No.8 June 2012
TIMES Managing Editor Ajit Ravi Editor Jebitha Ajit Associate Editor Bejoy George Legal Advisor Adv. Sreelatha Parameswaran Correspondents Dr. Thomas Nechupadam Tressa Varghese Denisha Sahadevan Sheela Abraham Sreerekha R. Nair Meera Nair Creative Design Ashique K, Pigment Creatives Gilsha Bindosh Marketing Pramod Photographers Aneesh Seny Vipin
Letters and feedbacks poured to my email after the May edition of Unique Times hit the market; Some feedbacks, some suggestions, lot more of positive reviews and appreciation. I want to say a big thank you for the overwhelming response. The cover story on The Pursuit of Happiness was well received among our readers. Our Health and Beauty pages are also very popular. This edition we have a feature on entrepreneurship as the main story. Entrepreneurship has been the hope for any economy and it is some excellent minds that made our lives easier and created wealth. If you are an entrepreneur or want to become one this article is a must read for you. Two articles I would suggest reading is the one on Debt management and the review of Vespa scooter. Debt management is a crucial for everyone, even if you are not in a crisis; Vespa has come back to the Indian market for the third time with a bang. Our online edition uniquetimes.org has seen a surge in visits. We have also made the previous editions available on our website, in case you have missed one. We are in the process of developing applications for Unique Times on Android and Ios platforms; the link to our Android application is already available on our Facebook page. Enjoy your reading and send me your feedback.
AJIT RAVI Managing Editor
Corporate Office Pegasus L5-106 Changampuzha Nagar Kalamasserry, Kochi-33 Printed at S T Reddiar P.B. No: 3627 Veekshanam Road, Cochin Contact Ph: 0484 3242220, 3292223, 3046432 Mob: +91 98460 50283, 94470 50283 editor@uniquetimes.org
02
UNIQUE TIMES June 2012
Our Patron Mr. V.P. Nandakumar * All rights reserved worldwide. Reproduction in any manner without permission of proprietors is prohibited.
CONTENTS
Main Story
Unique Diary
6
A quick read on what is happen all over the world, interesting news collected from different sources and based on different subjects.
Successful Debt Management
10
Successful Debt Management an article which will help you in your financial planning. See how can you plan your finances and come out of your debt.
Gift Card
12
A perfect gifting Solution. Jiz P talks about the gift card and how helpful it is.
Fathers Day
14
Denisha Sahadevan writes about father’s day and some ideas to surprise your dear father on his day.
16
Entrepreneurship: A way of Life; Our main story for the month, the article tries to see entrepreneurship in the new age. Entrepreneurship in many ways changed the world economy for good.
Vespa
22
Vespa has come back to the Indian market for the third time. This time alone, but has brought their classic scooter. Read all you want to know about Vespa.
Rhino
26
ICML Rhino Rx-Delite is a brilliant package form ICML. The new Rhino can boast of good styling and performance. Our Auto team test drives the new Rhino
Car Buying Guide:
28
Buying a car is a very difficult process. With a lot of manufactures, models and variants competing against each other, the decision making is very cumbersome. Some techniques you can employ while buying a car.
Leadership Thoughts
30
MD & CEO of Manappuram Finance Mr. V P Nandakumar speaks on the increasing life expectancy and its challenges
Interview
44
Director Shyamaprasad have always gifted his viewers some extraordinary movies. His latest movie Arike: So close is a simple movie that touches our heart. Our team reviews, the first Malayalam movie to feature in our column.
32
MD & CEO of Manappuram Finance Mr. V P Nandakumar speaks on the increasing life expectancy and its challenges
Travel
Movie Review
Company Focus
46
BRD Group manages the Meet and Greet services at Cochin International Airport. Read the innovative idea and the group that manages it.
48
Viadya Vachaspathi N K Padmanabhan Vaidyar talks about Ayurveda’s role in dealing with diseases caused by environmental problems.
62
After a lot of serious reading, some light reading but not that unimportant.
40
A list of some good books that came to our book shelf recently.
60
Some new technology you wanted to know, which can make our life much easier and can change it over the years.
What's Going On!
Books
58
There are the good days, when you can find the right outfit easily, and you feel like your on top of the world.
Technology
Ayurveda
52
New gadgets for the Gadget in you. Samsung Galaxy S III tops the chart everywhere and the hottest launch awaited.
Fashion
34
This month Sreerekha R Nair takes us through The City of Joy, Kolkata. She has delivered a very tasteful narrative on Kolkata. A must read for all travel lovers.
Gadgets
Ask Beauty Expert
50
Beauty expert Tressa Varghese answers you beauty queries
Sensex can fall 35 %
Unique Diary Pope’s Butler arrested
Vatican police arrested a man, who is reportedly Pope’s butler, suspecting that he has leaked confidential papers from the Pontiff’s private study to the newspapers. Vatican didn’t confirm the suspect’s identity or age. Vatican spokesman Federico Lombardi told journalists that “the inquiry carried out by Vatican police… allowed them to identify someone in possession of confidential documents. This person is currently being questioned. Il Foglio newspaper and ANSA news agency , reports that the detained man is none other than Pope’s butler Paolo Gabriele, member of the small team which works daily in Pope’s apartment. 06 UNIQUE TIMES June 2012
national competition. Rahul Nagvekar from Texas who bagged the first position walked away with a price of US $ 25,000, a lifetime membership to National Geographic society and a trip for two to Galapagos. 13 year Vansh Jain from Wisconsin came second, both are class eight students. The third and the fourth positions went to Varun Mahadevan from San Francisco and Raghav Ranga from Arizona. While Varun, a class seven student got US $10,000 college scholarship. Raghav Ranga who came fourth got a price of US $ 1000.
Minister Naveen Patnaik has cancelled a seminar
Global investment bank Standard Chartered has predicted that India’s benchmark index BSE Sensex may fall 35 percent in case of Greexit; a word coined to denote Greece’s exit from the Euro. But it is quite unlikely, but in a worst case scenario Sense may fall to 10, 472 levels. Clive McDonnell, the analyst at Standard Chartered arrived at this figure by taking the 2008 price to earnings ratio low and cutting the 12- month forward earnings per share growth by 50 %. Making things worse are an expensive oil and a falling Indian rupee. Oil prices have risen 14 percentage this year and rupee has fallen more than seven percentage. Indian stock market is dependent on foreign funds and foreign investments are on negative growth with $ 545 million outflow in April 2012 alone.
Indian-American students have swept the prestigious National Geographic Bee
Holding to their record of amazing performance, Indian American students have swept the prestigious National Geographic Bee competition, bagging all the top four positions of this year’s tough
Naveen Patnaik has cancelled a seminar he was scheduled to deliver at the Sussex University on Monday. Right wing groups claimed that he changed his programme fearing demonstrations against him. Patnaik who was elected as the Chief Minister of Odisha in 2000 was on his first foreign trip. He was scheduled to give a lecture on the development issues in Odisha at the Brighton-based Institute of D evel opm ent Studi es . An I D S spokesperson IDS told PTI that the seminar has been cancelled due to the Chief Minister changing his schedule on development issues. During his visit to the UK, Patnaik is scheduled to meet officials of the Department for International Development (DFID), which funds several projects in Odisha. He is also scheduled to inaugurate an Odisha handloom show and attend a dinner organised by the Odisha Society in UK.
Jet Airways denied loan
India’s largest private airline Jet Airways said on Friday that it could not complete its sale and lease-back of aircraft in fiscal 2011-12 because European banks are hesitant about lending to Indian carriers after seeing Kingfisher Airlines’ financial woes. This could hamper plans of other domestic airlines, including Jet Airways, who are trying to raise $1 billion in external commercial borrowings after the Indian government allowed such a move in the Union Budget 2012. In a management call with analysts, Jet Airways’ executives said the airline had been looking to raise $200 million from sale and lease-back of 10 to 12 planes in fiscal 2012. However, it was unable to close the deal because European banks did not want to lend to Indian carriers because of what Kingfisher Airlines is going through. Jet will now attempt to complete the sale and leaseback programme in the current fiscal.
Facebook IPO
For nearly 20 minutes on the morning of Facebook Inc's trading debut last Friday, the line Nasdaq had opened up to keep traders informed about the social media company's $16 billion IPO had been mute. Well after the stock was supposed to have opened at 11 a.m. New York time, no one from Nasdaq was talking - and there was still no sign of trading. Finally, at 11:28 a.m., an unidentified person announced that the shares would open in about 2 minutes. Nasdaq also said
orders and cancellations were still being processed, according to several sources listening to the call. Those crucial 20 minutes created confusion that turned into chaos over the next few hours as market makers - the brokers who quote bid and offer prices - struggled to figure out what was happening. They were rebuffed in their attempts to get Nasdaq to halt trading and sort out a growing number of problems.
Petrol Cars at a discount
As retail petrol price in India reached a new heights , leading car makers Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors and Hyundai Motor on Thursday announced discounts of up to Rs 50,000 on petrol models for a limited period. While the country's largest car maker Maruti Suzuki has offered a Rs 30,000 discount on its bestselling small car Alto in order to stop falling sales in recent months, rival Tata Motors is giving rebate ranging between Rs 10,000 and Rs 50,000 on the petrol variants of Indica and Indigo family. Hyundai Motor is giving discounts of up to Rs 3,000 on its entire range of petrol models. "Sales of entry level cars are getting affected in recent months due to very high fuel prices. Sales of Alto is falling and to boost sales of the car, we will offer discounts of Rs 30,000 till month-end," Maruti Suzuki India managing executive officer (marketing and sales) Mayank Pareek said. The sales of Alto has come down to a monthly average of about 20,000-22,000 units from 25,000-28,000 units in last fiscal, he added. Pareek said the company is also offering discounts to the tune of Rs 15,000-Rs 20,000 on other petrol models. Talking about a similar step, a Tata Motors spokesperson said: "We are offering discounts on the petrol variants of Indica and Indigo family.
Chelsea Lifts Champions League Trophy
Chelsea won the 2011-12 Champions League with a gripping 4-3 win over Bayern Munich on penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw at the Allianz Arena on Saturday. Bayern players was in the Chelsea half for the majority of the match, but were extremely wasteful in front of goal, passing up a number of opportunities that allowed Roberto Di Matteo's men to stay in the contest. Thomas Muller looked to have finally broken their resistance when he scored in the 83rd minute, but Didier Drogba brought the Blues back from the dead with a powerful header two minutes from time to send the final into extra-time. Arjen Robben saw a soft penalty saved by Petr Cech in the 95th minute, but there was no winner in the additional 30 minutes as the match moved into a penalty shoot-out. Chelsea won the coveted for the first time.
Awaara among All Time 100 Greatest Films made since 1923
Time magazine has included Raj Kapoor's 1951classic Awaara among 20 new entries added to its list of All Time 100 Greatest Films made since 1923, the year the prestigious US periodical was first published. Rethinking the movie masterpieces. Raj Kapoor, who modelled his screen persona on Charlie Chaplin's Little Tramp, was 26 when he filmed Awaara. Time calls Awaara "a glistening UNIQUE TIMES June 2012 07
showcase for Kapoor and the great India siren Nargis (his lover onscreen and off)." "And, of course, it's a musical, whose main song, Awaara Hoon, by the famed Shanker-Jaikishan duo, soared to the top of the pop charts in India, the former USSR and China." Time critic Richard Corliss describes Raj Kapoor as "the great star-of India's postcolonial golden age of movies - Cary Grant and Cecil B. DeMille in one handsome package." "The '50s films he headlined and directed became huge hits not just in his newly freed homeland but also across the Arab crescent from Indonesia to North Africa," Time noted The original All-Time 100 list published in 2005 included Satyajit Ray's The Apu Trilogy, Mani Ratnam's Nayakan and Guru Dutt's Pyaasa. Bollywood composer AR Rahman's score for Mani Ratnam's Roja, the tale of a woman whose lover is kidnapped by terrorists, was also among 10 Best Soundtracks. Last week, Time magazine ranked director Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 2002 film Devdas eighth among the 10 greatest movies of the millennium.
the heavy industries ministry is opposing the move. The oil ministry has argued that the additional amount garnered can be used to make good a part of the loss that fuel retailers incur on the sale of diesel at government-controlled rates. "There are two views to the proposal. We are trying to work out a consensus. The Budget has just passed and any changes could take some time," the source added. With the recent hike of over Rs 6.28 per litre in petrol prices, the difference between retail prices of petrol and diesel has widened further. While the per litre diesel price in Delhi is around Rs 40, petrol costs as much as Rs 74.
Diesel to become dearer Carol Cars Shelby Passes Away
kidney transplant in 1996. In 1962 Shelby test-drove the AC 260 roadster, the car made with a Ford engine that would become the Shelby Cobra. His company built the first Cobras in Venice, California. Two years later, Ford asked Shelby to develop a high-performance Mustang. 'Whether helping Ford dominate the 1960s racing scene or building some of the most famous Mustangs, his enthusiasm and passion for great automobiles over six decades has truly inspired everyone who worked with him,' said Edsel Ford II, grandson of the No. 2 U.S. automakers founder Henry Ford. His contract with Ford ended in 1970, and he then worked with Chrysler and General Motors Co. In 2001 Shelby was working with Ford again. Shelby is survived by three children and his wife, Cleo.
IT companies not benefitting from a falling rupee
Diesel Cars to become dearer
Amid the widening price difference between petrol and diesel, the finance ministry is looking at the possibility of raising excise duty on diesel cars, a suggestion which was mooted long back by the oil ministry. "Hiking excise duty on diesel cars is still on the agenda. It was not taken up during the Budget. It will take some time. It will happen," a finance ministry official said. To discourage the consumption of subsidized diesel by personal vehicle owners, the petroleum ministry had suggested imposition of higher duty on purchase of diesel cars. While the oil ministry has been asking for a hike in the excise duty on diesel cars, 08 UNIQUE TIMES June 2012
Carroll Shelby, renowned designer of the Shelby Cobra and other sports cars that placed him in the pantheon of auto industry legends, has died at age 89, his company said on Friday. He died on Thursday at Baylor Hospital in Dallas, according to the company, Carroll Shelby Licensing. The firm did not disclose the cause of death. Shelby was one of the few prominent designers to work with all three major American car companies, starting with Ford Motor Co in the 1960s. His last collaboration with Ford was on the 2013 Ford Shelby GT500. 'My name is Carroll Shelby and performance is my business,' he said in an early Cobra commercial. Shelby was born in Leesburg, Texas, in 1923. He started racing cars in the 1950s, and in 1959 he won the 24 Hours of Le Mans, a marathon race held in France. But he was diagnosed with a serious heart condition that forced him to quit racing. In 1960 he drove one race with nitroglycerin pills under his tongue. He complained that he would have won if not for the pills. Shelby had a heart transplant in 1990 and a
A falling rupee normally attracts investors to stocks of IT outsourcing companies. But this time around, the great fall of the Indian rupee has not excited investors to buy IT stocks. Many reasons are there. One, the dollardenominated revenue outlook of most IT companies for fiscal 2013 is unimpressive and, two, although most of the dollar earnings of these companies are hedged, such hedges are capped and they do not cover the full depreciation of the rupee.. The two largest markets for Indian software exporters the US and Europe, remain uncertain and volatile, and large in terms of service trade volume, with 419.1 billion U.S. dollars in 2011 compared with 66 billion U.S. dollars in 2000. Hosted by the Ministry of Commerce and the Beijing municipal government, the Beijing Fair, akin to China's major commodities fair, the Canton Fair, attracted more than 22,000 service
providers from 82 countries and regions to foster trade in the sector for the coming five days. From August 1, 2011, when the rupee was 44.08 to a dollar, the currency weakened to a low of 53.65 by midDecember - a depreciation of nearly 22%. During the same period, Infosys's stock price was almost flat. Marginal gains were seen in other frontline IT stocks. Of late, this scenario has reversed. Since the beginning of March, the rupee has depreciated nearly 12%, from 49.5 to 55.38, but the stock price of Infosys has fallen nearly 17%. "IT spending in the western world has drastically come down. Though Nasscom projects a growth of up to 14%, there are companies that say it's a very ambitious target," said Vijay Gautam, a senior market analyst. Ankita Somani, research analyst at Angel Broking, said that although the rupee's depreciation would add to the revenues of IT companies, "stock prices are unlikely to rally in a volatile business scenario".
China to become World’s largest consumer market
China is expected to become the world's largest consumer market in 2015.The volume of consumer retail sales will surpass 5 trillion U.S. dollars in 2015 amid an accelerated urbanization rate and the rise of people's incomes, China Commerce Minister Chen said at the opening ceremony of the first Beijing International Fair for Trade in Service. The number of outbound tourists is expected to reach 88 million at that time, he said. Demand for home services, education and training, medical care, financing, technology and tourism is booming, he said. China currently ranks fourth in the world.
World’s first commercial supply space ship: Dragon
"This event isn't just a simple door opening between two spacecraft -- it opens the door to a future in which U.S. industry can and will deliver huge benefits for U.S. space exploration," the Space Frontier Foundation, an advocacy group, said in a statement.
Son to control Hong Kong billionaire’s empire
The world's first commercial space cargo ship, the unmanned Dragon capsule reached the international space staion. Built by commercial company Space Exploration Technologies Corp. The International Space Station's crew reached out today with a robotic arm to grab SpaceX's Dragon cargo capsule and brought it in for the orbital outpost's first-ever hookup with a commercial spaceship. It marks the station's first linkup with a U.S.-made spacecraft since last year's retirement of NASA's space shuttle fleet, and potentially opens the way for dozens of commercial cargo shipments. If the long-range plan unfolds as NASA hopes, U.S. astronauts could be shuttled back and forth on the Dragon or similar spacecraft within just a few years. Space station astronauts floated into the Dragon on Saturday, a day after its heralded arrival as the world's first commercial supply ship. NASA astronaut Donald Pettit, the first one inside the docked capsule, said the Dragon looks like it carries about as much cargo as his pickup truck back home in Houston. It has the smell of a brand new car, he added. "I spent quite a bit of time poking around in here this morning, just looking at the engineering and the layout, and I'm very pleased," Pettit said from the brilliant white compartment. To protect against possible debris, Pettit wore goggles, a mask and a caver's light as he slid open the hatch of the newest addition to the International Space Station. The complex sailed 250 miles above the Tasman Sea, just west of New Zealand, as he and his crewmates made their grand entrance. The atmosphere was clean; no dirt or other particles were floating around.
Hong Kong billionaire Li Ka-shing on Friday confirmed that his eldest son will inherit and control his business empire. Eldest son Victor Li has long been expected to take over Cheung Kong Group and Hutchison Whampoa after his father steps aside, so Li's comments to reporters after a shareholders' meeting came as no surprise. Victor has served as the managing director at Cheung Kong - a vast multinational conglomerate with interests ranging from property to telecommunications -- for the past decade. Li senior said that while Victor would eventually take the helm at Cheung Kong, he would "use all his power" to help his younger son, Richard Li, who is chairman of Hong Kong telecoms company PCCW. Li is the richest man in Hong Kong and was named the richest man in Asia by Forbes magazine in March, with a fortune estimated at $22 billion.
UNIQUE TIMES June 2012 09
BANKING
Successful Debt Management A debt management plan is essentially an informal agreement with your creditors for a lower monthly payment.
One of most important concern for individuals and families is rising debt. Debt will take the peace out of the mind unless properly managed. All types of loans are available for an individual from personal loan to home loan, credit card to mortgages; whatever you wish to buy or gain you can do it with a loan. Commercial lending institutions make the process easy for you. Everything is easy but things become difficult when you are not able repay your monthly payments. The importance of the debt management plan becomes important at this situation. A debt management plan is essentially an informal agreement with your creditors for a lower monthly payment. There are two ways of arranging a debt management plan, either through using a professional debt management service or by negotiating with the creditors yourself. Debt Management Plan First of all you will have to draw up a Statement of Affairs. This is the summary of your financial position. List all your assets, liabilities, income and expenditure. Be very genuine in creating the SOA. The next step is to obtain an accurate balance. Get an accurate statement of your outstanding amount. Once the creditors find that your problem is genuine they can restructure the loan for a lower monthly payment.
10 UNIQUE TIMES June 2012
Once you have all the information from the Debtor available update your Statement with the exact figures and see how much money you can pay every month. Talk with your credit manager about your income and he will be able to re structure the loan for you. If you are arriving at a onetime settlement, you must ensure that you pay the money on the correct time; otherwise it will jeopardize your agreement. In case you have many creditors and you have missed one, start from the first step. This is the ideal process and this may not happen smoothly every time. The creditors can reject your offer. They may ask complete interest and other charges, some may even reject you claim. Mostly this happens if you are not genuine in your approach. A debt management plan is not the final step in getting your financial life back in order. It is actually the first step. Austerity is the finest measure to challenge debt. If you have a problem with credit scores you will not get any more debt. It is actually a good thing to happen and you will find ways to economize and live within your budget. Invest you time in more planning and budgeting your finances so that you do not go into further debts. There is another method called the Debt Consolidation Program involves you using a single loan to clear all of your debts. The
A consolidation loan does not reduce your debt amount, but definitely lowers the cost of servicing your debt thereby increasing your cash flow.
benefits are a lower interest rate, a fixed interest rate or the ease of making just one single payment, though generally over a longer period. A precondition for this program is a good CIBIL credit rating, as financial institutions primarily grant you a new loan based on the criteria of a good rating. If you have some collateral it may be easy for you get a secured loan. The most important benefit of a debt consolidation loan is you are able to clear most of the expensive part of the debts. If you can save on interest, it is also good. A consolidation loan does not reduce your debt amount, but definitely lowers the cost of servicing your debt thereby increasing your cash flow. Budgeting is an absolute priority, once you know your monthly income, your expenses, credits and creditors it is very easy to make a budget. You can identify areas where you are spending more and plug the gaps. Once you have your income and expenditure part worked out calculate the savings and see how much you can pay for your loan. Another important you want to save money
will be for future contingencies. If you have something more left, reward yourself with something you need, this will enliven you spirit to stick on to your budget. You will also have transformed the way you are thinking about money. If you are in debt and cannot change the way you spend money you will continue to be in debt. Only when you transform the way you think about money, you can live a life of financial security. Parents must instill financial discipline to children. This will help in the long run. Also important is credit reports, get your credit report and if you have some errors try to rectify it as early as possible. There are legal rights for you as well. Several laws exist to protect you from creditor harassment and abuse. If you feel you have a case against a creditor, you should contact a lawyer to learn your options in detail. As per RBI Guidelines, debt collectors cannot use unfair, deceptive, or abusive practices to collect debt.
UNIQUE TIMES June 2012 11
BANKING
Gift Cards
Few days back, on a weekend I had visited one of my friends, an NRI who had purchased a premium flat at Cochin and just moved in. He had invited me for the housewarming functions , but then excused me when I informed him of my other preoccupations on that day, on condition that I visit him before he returns abroad. While admiring the beauty of his new apartment I could see many gift wrapped cartons stacked in one of his bed rooms. Jovially I said “ If you are too busy to open 12 UNIQUE TIMES June 2012
the gifts , I can do it for you, provided I can carry the same” . My friend said “ You can carry any one or even all of it. All these are of no use to me . Disposing off these is the challenge which I am facing now. Thankfully few marriages coming up these days , where I can gift these unwanted items”. I am sure the situation my friend was is not a unique one. If you have conducted a marriage, a house warming or any other celebration , you might definitely have come across such an unenviable situation.
The perfect
Gifting Solution The most important feature which makes the gift card the most perfect gift is that it provides the recipient the right to choose the gift.
The art of perfect gifting – gifting your loved ones the gift of their choice was definitely a very complicated proposition till recently, but not any more. Banks have now come up with an innovative perfect gifting solution – the gift cards. A gift card is typically a prepaid debit card issued by the bank on VISA or Master Card platform. The gift cards are issued for Rs 500 to 50,000 in multiples of Rs 50 or 100. Unlike debit/ credit cards cash withdrawal is not permitted but the cards can be used for purchases at restaurants, departmental stores, textile/ jewellery showrooms etc where POS terminals have been installed or in some cases even for online purchase. The minimum validity period of the card is 6 months and the maximum 1 year. During the validity period multiple usage of the card is possible , till the amount is exhausted. Suppose the balance in the card only Rs 5000 and you want to purchase an item of say Rs 5,300 you can very well pay Rs 5000 by card and settle the balance in cash. The cards cannot be reloaded and once the amount has been fully utilized the same has to be destroyed for preventing any misuse. Gift card is an off-the-shelf product and Banks don’t insist on an account with the bank for issuing a gift card. But in case you are not an account holder you will have to provide the basic Know Your Customer ( KYC ) documents like photo, identity/ address proof etc . The purchaser will be handed over a beautifully
wrapped kit with the gift card and instructions inside. This can be gifted as such by you. For preventing unauthorized used it is always advisable that immediately on receipt of the gift card the beneficiary puts his signature on the reverse. The PIN/ TPIN / internet banking password will be provided in the kit , which can be used for knowing the balance in the card at any point of time, the details of past transactions etc. In case the card is lost or stolen the same has to be blocked immediately, by intimating the bank , just like you do with your debit / credit card. The card will immediately be blocked and a duplicate card issued to the purchaser , on submitting a copy of the police complaint filed. In case a card is not fully utilized and gets expired the balance amount in the card will be refunded by the bank. The most important feature which makes the gift card the most perfect gift is that it provides the recipient the right to choose the gift. Wide value range ( Rs 500 to 50,000) , acceptance at almost all merchant establishments, multiple usage ability and facility to pay partly by gift card and partly by cash all adds to increasing its acceptance as the perfect gift. Easy availability across bank branches, low service charges and relief from the tension of choosing the gift makes the gift card a perfect gift from the donors point of view also. UNIQUE TIMES June 2012 13
Here Are A Few Ways
Father’s Days,
Need Ideas For
FAMILY
Parents are the greatest gifts which God has so dearly blessed us with. And as a dedication to them, there is Mother’s Day which falls on the third Sunday of every May, then there is Father’s Day made to complement Mother’s Day which falls on the third Sunday of every June in most of the countries. For other countries, the celebration to honour mother’s, and father’s may fall on an other day, and time. But as far as India is concerned this year father’s day is on June 17th. Father’s day which was first celebrated in the early 20th century is a day for us, their children to honour, and respect our father showing them how much we truly care, and are thankful for all that they do for us every day. Of course this is something which we should be doing every day. However we have a day to celebrate together, almost worldwide, to show our father a sense of gratitude for just simply being…our father. In other countries father’s day may be celebrated on another day in other ways, like for example in Thailand father’s day is celebrated on the birthday of their present king by giving their father a yellow flower named Canna, and they were yellow to show respect to their king on that day. And in Italy, Father’s Day is celebrated on Saint Joseph’s Day.
Whether they are near us or far away, everything that they do is for the sake of their children. From the day which we are born, father’s along with our mother’s dedicate their lives to working so hard to giving us all that which we ask for, and to make our dreams come true, whatever it is that it takes. And so, how can you show them how much you appreciate them? Well here are a few ideas, some very simple, and some may require a bit of money. Starting from the start of father’s day make your father his favorite breakfast, lunch, and dinner…if you don’t know how to cook or are not good at cooking please ask your mother to help you. Get him the morning newspaper, along with his tea or coffee. I am sure any father would surely love that. If you live far away, then go visit your father, and surprise him, it’ll brighten up his day. For those with in-law’s bring your father-in-law’s together, and have a celebration or you can also: -Grab a picture of you, and your father and frame it, doesn’t have to an expensive frame, just simply a frame, along with a greeting card, if you don’t have time to go out, and get one a frame, and a card then make a card. -Get him his favorite movie with his favorite actor, or a soundtrack of his favorite songs bundled in a collection. You can download his favorite collection of songs, and burn it to a CD yourself. -If your father is always on the run, and a busy man, meet up with him, and take him out to lunch at his favorite restaurant, and let the treat be on you for that day. -Wash all his clothes for him, iron it, fold it, and keep it neatly ordered. Trust me this is surely to be appreciated by your father as well as your mother. -Get him a watch, or cologne, get him a nice tie, or a simple t-shirt. If he’s a sports fan get him a t-shirt of his favorite team.
By Denisha Sahadevan 14 UNIQUE TIMES June 2012
Just always keep in mind that it’s the simplest things that matter. You don’t really need to spend money to buy your father’s present’s to make him happy. What matters is that what you do, and say comes from the heart, and that your father knows how much you love him, and appreciate him for all that he’s done for you, and for all the love he’s given you not only on father’s day but every day after that as well so have a Happy Father’s Day!
MAIN STORY
Entrepreneurship
16 UNIQUE TIMES June 2012
A Way of Life Entrepreneurship for many is a passion a way of life. The spirit of entrepreneurship will be in them in everything they do. Great stories of men and women who have created immense wealth from scratches are told to new generations as fairy tales. But is entrepreneurship important, will you allow your son or daughter to start their own business? It all depends from individual to individual. But entrepreneurship requires serious support. We should support entrepreneurship because it is our economic lifeblood and the foundation of our hiring future. We strive to help businesses in general, but on the individual level, failure can be very distressing and those facing failure are courageous souls who basically face the world alone. We offer charity to the unemployed and the needy, and that is proper, but our entrepreneurs are also valued commodities that deserve care and nurturing. Our governments, workforces, indeed, our entire economic base depends on these critically important men and women, but we are lacking in assistance when they are in trouble. T h e f i r s t s t e p t o w a rd s u c c e s s f u l entrepreneurships is recognizing the fact there is enough independence to leave the safety of traditional employment. Secondly it is think on what one want out of his life and what venture we want to start. Very few businesses succeed out of all the startups. The root cause of small business success or failure is not due to a lack of knowledge or capital; it is due to a poor fit between the owner and the chosen venture. The successful entrepreneur always enjoys a good relationship with the business There is only two ways to achieve a perfect fit between an entrepreneur and business. The first is luck which is most often the case. The second comes from consciously UNIQUE TIMES June 2012 17
All of which means we don't do a very good job of analyzing things that are important in our lives.
18 UNIQUE TIMES June 2012
exploring who we are and how we might connect to the world of self-employment. It's really no different than analyzing one's career options or choosing a mate. Oh boy, what an analogy; a true one. In reality, 75% of adults don't like their jobs, more than 50% of all marriages end in divorce, and three out of five businesses fail. All of which means we don't do a very good job of analyzing things that are important in our lives. Nevertheless, in business, if we spent half as much time getting ready personally to undertake a venture as we do writing business plans and visiting with attorneys and accountants, we would succeed far more often.
The entrepreneur never stops, he never loses his steam, and he is always behind new ideas. A business may fail but an entrepreneur will not. The idea enterprise is quite a large one that one cannot leave mid way. The society cannot accept failures so as family. It is under this pressure the will of the entrepreneur tend to wither out. The will helped move forward entrepreneur will tested against the loving family. Another obstacle will responsibilities, the weight of the responsibility is again a huge factor. Strong minded entrepreneur will surpass obstacles and achieve success because he is born to an entrepreneur . Entrepreneurship is a way of life.
There are two widely accepted reasons used to explain why small businesses fail. One is an inadequate understanding of the business; the other is insufficient capital to sustain the venture. Even though those are obvious contributors to failure, I believe there is a much more basic cause of failure; one that is far more powerful and important than knowledge or capital. Just keep in mind as we go forward that any venture can be shoe-stringed financially, and the processes required to run almost any business can be learned.
However if you have an entrepreneur in you. There is list of 10 famous entrepreneur books and 10 famous movies which carry the entrepreneur spirit. There is an interesting reading about 10 myths about entrepreneurship and 10 fears entrepreneurs have. “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work”: Thomas Edison
Entreprene urs are introverts. No most of them are extroverts that make them good salespeople too
10 Myths about an Entrepreneur
10 fears of an entrepreneur
1. To Be a Successful Entrepreneur you must invent something novel: No take the example of Richard Branson or Dhirubhai Ambani.
01. Lack of Experience
2. Entrepreneurs Are Made, Not Born. Entrepreneurial spirit is most often inborn, not that they are created for startups, but certain skills are often inborn.
04. Being considered young
3. Entrepreneurs see business as profit making method. No, money is only secondary; the spirit to create and experiment comes first. 4. Entrepreneurs are introverts. No most of them are extroverts that make them good salespeople too. 5. Nothing Succeeds Like Success: For entrepreneurs nothing kills entrepreneurial like success. 6. Entrepreneurs Are Risk-taking Gamblers: no way have entrepreneurs lived a very calculated life. 7. You Hate Bosses: No, customers are our bosses. We like them 8. White-collar Professionals Don’t Become
02. Debt 03. Ill health
05. Failure 06. Education 07. Cold calling 08. Capital 09. Committing Mistakes 10. About his choice to become entrepreneur. 10 Books about Entrepreneurship 1. How To Get From Where You Are To Where You Want To Be? by Jack Canfield 2. Who Moved My Cheese by Spencer Johnson 3. Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill 4. New Ideas from Dead CEOs: Lasting Lessons from the Corner Office by Todd G.Buchholz 5. What They Don’ Teach You At Harvard Business School by Mark McCormack 6. Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki 7. Losing my Virginity by Richard Branson 8. The Art of the Start: The Time-Tested, Battle-Hardened Guide for Anyone Starting Anything by Guy Kawasaki 9. Crush It!: Why NOW Is the Time to Cash In on Your Passion by Gary Vaynerchuk 10. The 4-hour Work Week by Timothy Ferris 10 Movies on Entrepreneurship 01. Up in the Air (2009)
Entrepreneurs: No quite a few while collar professionals have become entrepreneurs. 9. Anybody can be an entrepreneur with a n idea and enthusiasm. No even though both are required you need much more than that. 10. Men are better entrepreneurs than women. There is no such thing, there are numerous successful women entrepreneurs
This is a story about Ryan Bingham (George Clooney) who travels around the country with his job of laying off people in other companies. A young, fresh employee Natalie Keener (Anna Kendrick) comes in to the company to revolutionize the current business model and rely solely on technology. 01. October Sky (1999) A young boy, Homer Hickman (Jake Gyllenhaal), and his friends become inspired by Sputnik’s orbit that he decides to learn how to build rockets. Most of the town and all believe this is a waste of time since the UNIQUE TIMES June 2012 19
04. The Pursuit of Happyness (2006) Christopher Gardner (Will Smith) is trying to support his family by selling medical devices that no one wants. He sees a chance to fight for an internship selling stocks, but its 6 months of no pay. To make ends meet, he continues to push the medical devices and becomes homeless. But he continues down the path to obtain the career he’s after. 05. The Social Network (2010) Harvard student, Mark Zuckerberg (Jesse Eisenberg), creates Facebook in his dorm room. He is later sued by classmates who claim he stole their idea and a co-founder who was squeezed out by rapid moving company. 06. Glengarry Glen Ross (1992) A stor y of a high pressure sales environment. When a new boss comes in, the veteran sales reps have to close more deals or lose their job. One of the most famous lines from the movie "A-B-C. AAlways, B-Be, C-Closing. Always be closing, always be closing" shares the salesman mantra for succeeding and closing deals. 07. Pirates of Silicon Valley (1999) A biographical look at the men who created Microsoft and Apple. It focuses on the early days of both companies and how they differed in their operations. 08. Rocky (1976)
boys were destined to be coalminers. But one teacher Miss Riley (Laura Dern) encourages this dream and enters the boys into a National Science Fair with the prize being a college scholarship. 03. Moneyball (2011) Oakland A's general manager Billy Beane (Brad Pitt) has the lowest salary available for players in Baseball. All of his star players are being picked up by bigger teams and he’s left to look at how to create a winning team without the competitive edge that money can buy. The solution is to look at statistical data and pick players based on their stats alone to fill in gaps needed on his team.
20 UNIQUE TIMES June 2012
A true underdog story of a Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone) who is given the chance to fight the Heavyweight Champ. He has a chance to make a better life for himself by going head to head with the competition and winning. 09. Tommy Boy (1995) A family business is on the brinks of going under when the owner passes away. His slow-witted and clumsy son, Tommy (Chris Farley) is left to try to save the company by going out on the road to close sales and keep the company afloat. 10. Flash of Genius (2008) An inventor, Robert Kearns (Greg Kinnear), battles with the US automakers over his device. All the auto giants embrace his invention and it becomes a standard on all cars. However, they do not give Kearns the credit he is due and he fights them for credit.
PEGASUS THE EVENT MAKERS
www.pegasusindia.org
Miss South India 2012 Miss South India is not just another beauty contest. Attracting talents from all over India, it reflects the culture and tradition of India. The pageant showcases South India in all its splendor.
Unique Times is now available as e-magazine Log on to: www.uniquetimes.org/e-magazine
Are you between 18-25, 5.5 inch tall, have a pleasant look, smart enough to answer questions and confident of walking the ramp, you can definitely apply for the finest beauty pageant in South India. Register your name today
www.misssouthindia.org
AUTO REVIEW
the first Vespa was launched in India by Bajaj Auto in 1960
22 UNIQUE TIMES June 2012
Vespa is a 66 year old Iconic brand,
a
Vespa came into India in as early as 1960, in
prominent name among brand enthusiasts.
association with Bajaj Auto. Their
Fashion enthusiasts will definitely identify
association lasted till 1971. Vespa’s second
Vespa as a regular ingredient in major
innings with LML was in 1983 and lasted till
fashion brand advertisements. Vespa
1999, before the motorcycles devoured the
appears in more than 200 Hollywood
geared scooter market in India. Vespa is
movies. Vespa is most stylish scooter available in India. It has got stylish headlamp, tail lamp
back to the lucrative Indian market, this time it is fighting it out alone and eyeing at the Lifestyle market.
and LED indicators. Apart from this it’s sleek
Last decade witnessed a sea change in the
body design and color scheme catches
Indian two wheeler market. The emergence
attention . The chrome element is visible
of gearless scooters marked an end to the
everywhere starting from the signature
motorcycle dominated era. The top players
Vespa chrome grill to tail light chrome
in this segment are Honda, Suzuki,
appliqué. Vespa also offers unique
Mahindra and Hero motors. Some brands
accessories which can further enhance the
like Activa and Access have about 4-6
style factor of the scooter
months of waiting period. Vespa is certainly
The engine has equipped with modern technologies such as Variable Spark timing management, MAP sensing.
eyeing at this market. The gearless scooter
The scooter weighs just 114 Kg and weight
segment is growing at a 30% every year.
distribution is quite good. Vespa has
Vespa is a entering the upper end of this
monocoque full steel body construction.
market, the premium and lifestyle segment
The monocoque chassis provides great
and it the makes Vespa the lone player in its
strength and rigidity. The entire chassis is a
category.
single piece steel body which is unique now
Vespa is powered by a 125cc, 4 stroke, 3 valve, single cylinder, air cooled engine. The engine can generate maximum power of 10 bhp @ 7,500 rpm and maximum torque of 10.6Nm @ 6,000 rpm. With these figures Vespa will rank as the most powerful scooter available in India. It has got CVT
a day. Vespa has hold on to the monocoque design right from the very beginning. The link spring mechanism between the engine and frame provides balance and stability. Vespa has designed this scooter chassis which makes the rider confident during sharp turns.
transmission, MAP sensing and variable
Vespa has got 150mm drum brake in the
spark timing. This powerful motor is not a
front and the rear has got 140mm drum
gas guzzler. Vespa has ARAI certified fuel efficiency of 62 KMPL and the sound of the scooter is a bit different from normal 4 stroke gearless scooter. Corresponding to the power of the
brake. You will miss the disc brake on the front, in case you want to take the Vespa out for a spin. For or regular purpose breaking is quite adequate. The front has got single sided trailing arm
motor, the new Vespa is substantially quick,
front suspension which comes with anti dive
it can reach 60 kms from zero in less than 10
characteristics. The rear has got dual effect
seconds and achieve a top speed of 100
hydraulic shock absorber. Suspensions are
km/hr.
fine and offer a trouble free ride. Vespa UNIQUE TIMES June 2012 23
The rear has got dual
comes with nylogrip tyres. It has 3 spoke,
standard. You can open all the storage with
stain finish alloy wheels with the rim size of
just a single key and key lock which is now
90/100-10. The road grip of tyres is firm and
becoming standard.
makes the scooter stable in the wet
effect
conditions
Vespa has been priced higher than other gearless scooter. It is marketed as a
hydraulic
Ve s pa c o m e s w i t h 1 2 V, 5 A h l o w
premium scooter, so naturally the prices will
maintenance battery. The front headlight is
be high. In spite of its higher pricing Vespa is
shock
powered by 35 watt halogen with multi focal
getting a lot of bookings and in some cities
view.
there is waiting period of 25-30 days. On
absorber.
visibility in night. The instrument panel has
road price in Kochi is approximately 75000
electric clock along with speedometer, fuel
rupees.
The headlight offers adequate
gauge, side indicators and high beam indicators. The switchgears are top quality. Vespa offers adequate under seat storage
and with zero competition in the premium scooter segment, Vespa is supposed to do
capacity of 15 Kg (16.5 liters) which is good
well. For the fashion conscious youngsters
enough for a full size helmet and other
there should be nothing else in mind. The
stuffs. You can also remove the under seat
performance and fuel efficiency is also
dickey and do some regular maintenance of
good. Handling is also very good. So Vespa
engine. The front also offers good amount
is proving they are lucky in the third arrival
of storage for small things. You don’t need
to India.
to pay extra for front glove box as it comes
24 UNIQUE TIMES June 2012
The Vespa is a very good gearless scooter
TIMES
*Android, Apple & Facebook logos are of their respective owners
The android and iPhone application of Unique Times will be soon available
Like us in facebook and you will get an update as soon as it is available
AUTO REVIEW
RHINO
RX-DELITE
26 UNIQUE TIMES June 2012
Rhino is developed with inputs from Lotus Engineerin g and MG rover group of Britain
Nobody can pass by without taking a look on
including tractors have helped a lot in
the new Rhino RX Delite. As a young bride with
building in this vehicle. This vehicle is also a
all the ornaments Rhino Rx Delite looks
mark that Indian manufacturers have
extremely stunning.
The dual tone body
graduated to the quality levels in making
colour which resembles Pajero and graphics
vehicles. This is very evident in the new Rhino
which looks like Japanese lucky symbols
models which have significant improvement
makes the new Rhino a formidable package. The new Rhino is proves to be an extremely competitive package not just for the Indian opponents but also for the Japanese, American and European rivals. The fit and finish has been given a lot of improvement.
from previous models. The dual tone dashboard with beige and black is elegant. The wood elements given have added to its grandeur. The gear level now sits on a console and steering is quite good and looks like one in the Honda Civic. The backlit instrument console looks extremely good. The molded
The vehicle is also very solid.
roof and quality fabric for seats makes the Design
Rhino a good buy.
Rhino should be eyeing at the share of market
The high end model gets a LCD screen, there
which Toyota created when they pulled out
are three layers front facing seats and AC
Qualis. Rhino looks like a face lifted Qualis. The
vents are provided even at the back side.
empty space which Toyota created by pulling out Qualis is still very lucrative and Rhino has
Driving
Rhino is
The 2000 cc CRDi diesel engine from MG
developed with inputs from Lotus Engineering
Rover which makes an output of 120 bhp
and MG rover group of Britain. The Rhino
power and 285Nm Torque. The engine is
understood the market need.
Delite certainly looks like the Qualis but at
powered well and it comes to good use at
certain angles is we can see a little of Mahindra
long drives. It can cruise well on overdrive and
Scorpio too. The sides and rear of the Rhino
can gain speed quite easily. The gear shift has
bears similarity to the Qualis, but the front
been improved compared to the older Rhino
grille and headlamps gives this SUV a ‘small
models. Minor tweaks in gear ratio make the
Scorpio look’.
city ride much smoother. The suspension is good and potholes normal to Indian roads are
Build
not making any effect on the ride quality. The Rhino RX Delite and its siblings are very
Braking also has improved. The ground
strongly built. The body panels are very sturdy,
clearance of 180 cm and 15 inch tyres make
very few vehicles can boast of this build
sure that the vehicle is made for Indian roads.
quality. The body panel finish is excellent. The panel gap and the thud when the door closes show the excellent build quality. The paint finish is superb. Dual tone painting is given to
The Rhino gives out an impressive mileage of 17 kmpl. On road price: 6 lakhs to 9 lakhs
higher end models along with turn indicators on side mirrors.
The wheel cups provided
looks like alloys. The dual tone painting is an eye catcher on any road. The red colour is actually metallic which may look like solid red at the first sight. Interiors Sonalika always insist on quality interiors.
For Enquiry and Test ride contact: Mustang Motors, Thrissur. Phone: +91 93493 55999
Their experience is exporting vehicles UNIQUE TIMES June 2012 27
AUTO
Guide to buying a new car Selecting a car can be a difficult decision given the numerous models and variants available in the market. There will several questions in the customers mind about the brand, quality, after sales service, price etc. More important is to understand will be suitable for you requirement or not, that includes lifestyle, family size, use etc.
28 UNIQUE TIMES June 2012
What is my Budget? What would be my EMI? (If you are taking a loan.) What all cars will suit my lifestyle? What are the available cars in this segment? Type of the car you are looking for? A compact car, a sedan, or a sports utility vehicle (SUV)? What all features I need in my car? This is the basic step, having gone through the questions you will know which set of cars will suit you and what all cars should avoid. The next level is to experience the car, its features and its price. 1. Short list the cars you want to buy
Some questions you will have to find answers before you start searching
2. Get the information about the cars from the web, brochures; don’t look at advertisements alone, because there will only half of the information needed. 3. Select the final set you want to go and experience. 4. Visit the showroom/ ask the dealer for a test drive. 5. Tell them your specific needs and clarify with the executive. 6. If you like the vehicle and offer. Please look for user reviews, experiences in magazines, websites. 7. Negotiate with dealer for a better price and Calculate the on the road price. 8. Look for the best finance and insurance option Tips for selecting a car Look for the quality and brand image than choosing a car with attractive incentives and rebates. Be careful of hidden conditions in offers and rebates. Check the features and quality of the car and what all accessories you will be required to pay Check for factors that are important to you such as mileage, service network, and safety. A comparative study with other vehicles will help Analyze the engine power, seating capacity, mileage, and other technical specifications.
Ask for incentives the manufacturer is offering. Enquire about extended warranty or service contract. Automobile insurance is a must, review insurance policies from various insurance companies to make the right choice. Check with insurance companies before you buy your new vehicle; compare these insurance rates to make the right choice. New Car Discount Negotiation Guide Car manufacturers and dealers offer different t y p e s of d i s c o u n t to a c u s to m e r. Understanding these discounts will help you bargain with your dealer. If you are smart enough you can get a discount of up to 10% of the price and in very rare cases even more. The discounts vary according to the manufacturer and demand of that particular car in the market. Dealer/OEM Discount: This is a sales promotion offer directly from the manufacturer or the dealer. This offer is usually not available on news cars and cars with long waiting period. You can expect the dealer to give 1-5% discount without bargaining and if you bargain he would give a little more. For some cars which are not selling that well the discount will be as high as 10-15% Corporate Discount: Car dealers offer a discount called corporate discount for employees of a corporate, governments etc. this is done attract more buyers for the Car. Please confirm your eligibility with the dealer. Loyalty Bonus: is a type of discount given to retain their existing customers. That is in case you already own a car from the same manufacturer. Normally loyalty bonus is quite handsome and can range up to 20,000 rupees. Exchange Bonus: If you are trading-in your existing car for a new one at the dealership, ask the dealer for an exchange bonus. Dealer happily offers exchange bonus because he gets a good margin on your used car that he buys. The exchange bonus should be in the 15% range. Discount on Other Charges: Lastly you can ask the dealer a discount on other charges like registration charges, handling charges and service charge.
Financing, Warranties and Insurance Opt for the lowest interest car loan. UNIQUE TIMES June 2012 29
LEADERSHIP THOUGHTS
Our Increasing life expectancy and its challenges
V.P. Nandakumar MD & CEO Manappuram Finance Ltd.
30 UNIQUE TIMES June 2012
One of the social indicators in which India has
challenges that call for radical policy changes.
made steady progress is life expectancy at
In Kerala, for instance, the retirement age for
birth. A child born in India today can expect to
those in government service stood at 55 years
live for about 65 years compared to 58 years in
for a long time, no matter that during these
1995. In Kerala the figures are even more
years, our lifespan had increased dramatically.
impressive with the average life expectancy at
(In March 2012, it was hesitantly raised to 56
75 years now. Indeed, the expectation is that
years.) People retire from public service in the
by the turn of this century, with further
prime of their lives and our state government
advances in medical care (complemented by
loses their productive energy even as it is
improved living standards), life expectancy
compelled to start spending on their
would advance by another 10 years.
pensions.
The increasing lifespan of our citizens,
The economic problems associated with an
welcome as it is, is also giving rise to new
ageing population are beginning to cause
The challenge is whether
concern now that countries like Japan are
and Mr. Sathyavrathan, who carried on
facing the adverse consequences of a
working for us with dignity well into their
declining percentage of working population.
eighties, thanks to this policy that refuses to
It’s interesting that a welfare state, whose
discriminate on the basis of age.
great virtue is the assurance it gives to its citizens that the state would look after them in their old age, is now being undermined precisely because its old people are living so much longer. In simple terms, the economics
we are we
productive citizens outnumbering those living
prepared to
equation gets turned on its head, the
act now, or
undermined. And this is the crisis that Japan
of a welfare state is crucially dependent on its on welfare and pension payments. When the foundations of the welfare state are fatally
do we wait
with its aging population is heading towards. It is also what Kerala is also likely to face, with the strain on the government’s finances arising from its ballooning pensioners,
until a fullblown crisis is at hand.
supported by a shrinking base of the working population.
Moreover, we have always been open to taking in retired people from the government and the financial services sector. We recognise that retirement is actually about retirement from a particular position and does not in the least amount to a “retirement from life”. At the same time, with some people attitudes can be a problem because they consider retirement to be a right to remain idle and to be looked after by the next generation in the family. In fact, our traditions often reinforce this attitude, for example, when we celebrate the 60th birthday on a grand scale as “Shastipoorthi”. In the olden days, the human lifespan was much shorter and it was sensible to celebrate the 60th year as a milestone marking the end of a fruitful life beyond which
As the years go by, this problem will become
time was to be spent in religious
progressively more acute with pensioners
contemplation, and in preparing for the
living longer and claiming pensions for more
afterlife. Today, people are healthy and
years in retirement than their working years.
functional, often well into their eighties, but
The shape of this unfolding crisis is clear, we
the celebration of the “Shastipoorthi”
know what is coming. The challenge is
continues to appeal to many. My own opinion
whether we are we prepared to act now, or do
is that there is nothing wrong in seeking to
we wait until a full-blown crisis is at hand.
preserve our traditions provided we are able
Clearly, the smart response would be to persist
to adjust to the new realities.
in progressively increasing the retirement age from 56 years to 58 or even 60 years, but that
Therefore, let traditions remain where they are, but let our mind-sets change.
would also be risking political opposition. And so, Kerala may well be heading into a financial crisis, at which point the necessary political courage would be easier to muster. In this context, the Manappuram group is quite unique in that our corporate policy does not specify an age of compulsory retirement. Our employees work, and keep on working, as long as they are healthy and productive. We don’t have an arbitrarily defined retirement age that would compel them to sit idle at home, deprived of a useful income that was within their capacity to earn. I am reminded of two of our ex-employees, Mr. Gopalakrishnan UNIQUE TIMES June 2012 31
INTERVIEW
22 FEMALE
KOCHI Riya,
Bold and beautiful the new 22 fk fame is all set to be in the
glaring lime light of big screens. Meera Nair
32 UNIQUE TIMES June 2012
If you are asked to qoute the best experience of your life till date, what would it be? • How was it when you first faced camera in your life?
• How was it working with the heartthrob of malayalam film industry Fahad Fazil?
First time I ever faced camera was for a television reality show the big break. Then I was more worried about the telecast rather than the shoot.
He is a cool dude, we will feel an ease when we work with him, he never make us feel that we are actually acting.
• Your entry in to the film industry.
• Any close friends in the industry?
As I mentioned, everything started from my mini screen appearance. That show carpeted my way towards the film Shutter a Joy mathew’s film which is yet to be released. It was after shutter I did 22FK .
Ashiq Abu is gem of a person, a real good friend of mine.
• Your thought about the film industry. Industry is just like any other work space, what matters is the way you are and the way you conduct yourself. • More about your debutant film. Shutter was indeed a great experience. Sharing same screen with the mastreo Lal was an overwhelming incident. It was Lal sir who refered me for 22fk.
• If you are asked to qoute the best experience of your life till date, what would it be? Working with the great Akshay Kumar in malapuram gold ad shoot was just an astonished event in my life and being a debutant I find myself charmed to get an opportunity like that an opportunity for which many talented girls must be thriving out there. • How can you deascribe yourself in two words? Daring and reserved.
• 22fk Tissa, that’s how you are more known these days. How different is she from Riya the real you?
• We are all well aware of your acting caliber, what are your interests other than acting?
Riya is a temperate face of Tissa, to tell you the truth there are no much evident differences between us.
Well, I’m a literature student at times I find myself comfortable with books. Then most of the time with friends and family hanging out in Kochi.
• Can you recall any special moment from the set of 22fk? My first shot in the film was with Reema, she is a well experienced actor, on other hand it was me at the shivering end. But she really helped me out to bring out the best in me right from my very first shot. My first shot is something totally unforgettable.
• What are your future plans? Always wanted to be in films, so planning to be in the industry and live my life the way I want it to be. • Who do you consider as your supporting pillar? My mom has always been my title of inspiration, and she is the strongest pillar one can ever get and I find myself blessed with a good fortune to have her in my life.
UNIQUE TIMES June 2012 33
TRAVEL
THE CITY OF JOY
KOLKATA
Sreerekha R. Nair is an avid traveller and writer. She is the principal of Vijay English Medium School, Nashik. She can be contacted at sreerekha.ranjith@gmail.com
34 UNIQUE TIMES June 2012
K
olkata, formerly spelled Calcutta, is the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal. It is located in eastern India on the east bank of the River Hooghly. The 'City of Joy' is the most apt place for the eager visitants as the places of interest in Kolkata are numerous. This eventful city with its many marvels has truly a lot to offer. Since its birth in 1960, it has metamorphosed into one of the most sought after destinations for the tourists from all over the globe. Kolkata is indeed a happening city and when it comes to entertainment in Calcutta, the city of joy has a lot of choices to offer. Kolkattans are very talented people and have an artistic flair. Calcutta is in fact very famous for its cultural activities then be it theatre, music, dance, art or poetry. There are so many religious places to awaken the holy and divine side of an individual and instill feelings of peace and harmony in him.
Kolkata is known for its vibrant, vivid, joyful lifestyle and hence it is widely famous as “city of joy� nourished from ethnic culture, various traditions and living of the natives which directly impacts the lifestyle standards of the localities in the capital city, Kolkata. As being the cultural city also Kolkata, offers a lot of entertainment leisures to its residents that leads to various cultural events and festivals to know the customs and traditions efficiently. The city has lots of big markets, shopping places, Bars, Pubs, hotels, various cuisines which can definitely change the buds of taste of anyone, apart from these the city has ancient and contemporary art galleries, clubs, theatres and outwards spots where one can go and enjoy. Capital city Kolkata is a home of Bengalis who are best known for their unique sensibility, for whom every activity is a joyful commitment whether it is a carnival or a festival. The Bengalis know how to bring the joy and makes the city proud of having its delightful dwellers.
UNIQUE TIMES June 2012 35
How to reach
considered to be a mother for humans. The temple is 200 years old in its present form. The image of Kali that is placed here is unique and different from any other images of the goddess. Thanthania Kalibari Temple
By Air: It is completely accessible by air. There are a number of domestic airlines that connect Kolkata with other major cities of India like Ahmedabad, Bagdogra, Bangalore, Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Delhi, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Lucknow and Mumbai. By Rail: There are super fast trains like Rajdhani Express and Shatabdi Express that join Calcutta from Delhi and other nearby places. Calcutta consists of two major railway stations; one is located in Howrah and the other at Sealdah. By Road: The city of joy is well linked with almost all the cities of India by road. The Esplanade Terminus is the main bus terminus that lies in the heart of the city. The latest development is the starting of DhakaCalcutta buses, which are fully airconditioned and also very comfortable.
MAJOR TOURIST ATTRACTIONS Religious Attractions Kalighat Temple: The Kalighat Kali Temple which is Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Maa Kali is located on the banks of the Adi Ganga River in Calcutta. This temple is considered to be one of the 51 Shakti Peethas where the various parts of Sati's body fell as mentioned in religious legends. People from all over India irrespective of their sectarian differences come to this temple to worship Maa Kali who is 36 UNIQUE TIMES June 2012
Thanthania Kalibari is situated in Shyam Bazar, as you go towards Shyambazar via Bidhan Sarani you can see this temple to your left. This temple was built by Sankar Ghosh. The deity is worshipped as Siddheswari Mata'. The temple has an idol of the Mother Goddess. The image is of clay and is renovated every year. It is very popular tourists spot which attracts a lot of people from all over the world. Dakshineshwar Temple Dakshineswar Kali Temple is situated alongside the Vivekananda Bridge north of Kolkata, about 20 km. from BBD Bagh.This temple is located on the bank of the Ganges, north of Belur Math in Kolkata, it is dedicated to Goddess kali. It is a spacious temple covering an area of about 25 acres. It is one of the largest temples in Kolkata. The main attraction of the temple is that the Ganga (Hooghly river) flows beside the temple. The 12- spired temple with its enormous courtyard is surrounded by 12 other temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a world famous place of pilgrimage and it was here that the famous religious thinker Rama Krishna Paramahamsa achieved his spiritual vision and preached the unity of all religions. He was a worshipper at this temple and he used to live in the temple premises. His room is open to the visitor. Belur Math Belur Math, sprawling over forty acres of land on the western bank of the Hooghly (Ganga), in Howrah district, an hour's drive from Kolkata, is a place of pilgrimage for
The place has been sanctified by the stay of Swami Vivekananda and most of the monastic disciples of Sri Ramakrishna who spent several years here.
people from all over the world professing different religious faiths. Even people not interested in religion come here for the peace it exudes. It was at Belur Math that Swami Vivekananda (1863-1902), the foremost disciple of Sri Ramakrishna (18361886), lived the last years of his brief life. The place has been sanctified by the stay of Swami Vivekananda and most of the monastic disciples of Sri Ramakrishna who spent several years here. Holy Mother Sri Sarada Devi also visited this place on several occasions. The room in which Swamiji attained Mahasamadhi has been preserved here. An added attraction is the Museum which contains articles connected with the history of Ramakrishna Math and Mission. The green lawns and lush growth of trees and bushes everywhere add to the serenity and beauty of the place. All this has contributed to an elevating spiritual ambience that has made Belur Math an important place of pilgrimage for people all over the world. Birla Mandir Birla Mandir in Kolkata, India, is a Hindu temple on Asutosh Chowdhury Avenue, Ballygunge, built by the industrialist Birla family. The Birla Temple is one of the finest specimen of the greatness of Hindu religion and accordingly it has portrayed gods and goddesses of the Hindu pantheon, like Radha & Krishna, Shiva & Durga and even deities of Hanuman, the Dasha Avatars and Ganesha. The concept of unity in variety which is the plan of the universe is very well depicted at the Birla temple. A memorable way of experiencing the sublime spiritual atmosphere of Birla Mandir is by being present at the temple premises in time for the evening Aarti. Once the Aarti is over and with lights coming on, the temple is
illuminated like a bejeweled bride. Soft music is piped which makes for a transcendental experience. Armenian Church of Kolkata This church is situated in the Armenian Street, at the north-west corner of Barabazaar, close to the Howrah Bridge in Kolkata. The internal walls of the Armenian Church of Kolkata are ornamented with marble, while the overhead gallery has mural tablets. The altar possesses a cross, the gospels and 12 candlesticks depicting Christ and his Apostles. Three oil paintings 'The Holy Trinity', 'The Last Supper' and 'The Enshrouding of Our Lord' - by the English artist AE Harris add to the glory of the altar. Ruins of the Armenian cemetery are there in the church premises. Nakhoda Mosque The Mosque is located in Jacquaria Street, near the junction of Chitpore Road and Mahatma Gandhi Road in Kolkata.The gateway of the mosque resembles the Buland Darwaza at Fatehpur Sikri. For its construction granite stones were brought from Tolepur. Inside the Nakhoda Mosque there is a fabulous exhibition of ornaments and art.
FAMOUS MONUMENTS Howrah Bridge Howrah Bridge, located over the Hoogli River in West Bengal, India, is said to be the busiest bridge of the world. It got its name owing to the fact that it connects the city of Howrah to Calcutta. Hawrah Bridge in Kolkata, India, also known by the name 'Rabindra Setu', was set up in 1874. It stands on two 270 feet high pillars. Calcutta Howrah Bridge is a cantilever truss bridge that was constructed without using any nuts and bolts. Though, earlier it had a tram UNIQUE TIMES June 2012 37
route, but presently, it is serving mainly as a Road Bridge. Howrah bridge has got two sister bridges also, namely, Vidyasagar Setu and the Vivekananda Setu that are situated at different points over the hoogly river. This bridge acts as an important symbol of Kolkata. Shahid Minar The Shahid Minar in Kolkata was built by Sir David Ochterlony in the year 1948 to immortalize his astounding triumph in the Nepal War that took place in the period between 1814 and 1816. This skyscraper monument standing at approximately 48 meters enlightens the night sky of the Maidan region situated in the hub of Kolkata, as it is superficially illuminated by a dazzling shower of bright light from all its corners.Shahid Minar literally mean 'The Tower of the Martyrs', is indeed a spectacle to watch out for in this busy city of joy. Victoria Memorial The Victoria Memorial of Kolkata is a majestic structure in white marble, modeled on Taj Mahal. The Victoria Memorial was built in memory of Queen Victoria in the early 20th Century. The total expenditure of building Victoria Memorial was around Rs 1,50,000,000. This magnificent structure was designed by Sir William Emerson and inaugurated by the Prince of Wale.Located in the southern end of the Kolkata Maidan, the dramatic Victoria Memorial of Kolkata lies close to the Jawaharlal Nehru Road. Set in the middle of the beautiful garden grounds, the Victoria Memorial of Kolkata has a large bronze statue of the Queen Empress. There is a moving angel on the top of the Victoria Memorial in Kolkata facing the Calcutta Maidan.You can see a number of statues such as Statue of Justice,Statue of liberty,Statue of Motherhoodin the maidan. The Victoria Memorial of Kolkata is one of the most popular tourist spot in the city.Victoria Memorial is also one of the few wellmaintained heritage buildings that ever existed in the capital city. Marble Palace The Marble Palace in Kolkata is an exquisitely engineered palatial mansion that was built by Raja Rajendra Mullick Bahadur, who was one of the wealthiest landlords of Bengal in the year 1835. It's sheer magnificence and scintillating artistry will surely captivate you in a state of trance.This architectural masterpiece is made from the extensive use of Italian marble. The lush green lawn in front of it is clad with statues of Hindu Gods, The Virgin Mary, Jesus Christ, the great explorer Christopher Columbus, Lord Buddha and some lions. A room decorated with mirrors containing prized works of Ruben, Reynolds and others.The special attractions are mind-boggling collection of antic paintings like Catherine's wedding by Rubens,collection of exquisite clocks, 82 different types and The north-eastern frontier has an elegant fountain in the midst of a serene lake. If you are planning to visit Kolkata, do not forget to visit the famous marble palace. 38 UNIQUE TIMES June 2012
The Raj Bhavan The Raj Bhavan was built as the Government House by the Marquis of Wellesley, then Earl of Mornington, Governor General of India, under the East India Company.The total area occupied by the Raj Bhavan is 27 acres. The Raj Bhavan building has 84,000 sq.ft of floor space.
FAMOUS MUSEUMS Indian Museum Indian Museum is the largest museum in India. The museum was established in 1914. The museum has 6 sections-Art, Archeology, Anthropology, Geology, Zoology and Industry (Economic Botany). Birla Academy of Art and Cultural Museum: Birla Academy of Art and Cultural Museum holds regular exhibitions of contemporary Indian painters as well as sculptures. It is one of the foremost museums in Kolkata. Ashutosh Museum of Indian Art Ashutosh Museum of Indian Art is one of the museums in Kolkatawhich is dedicated to the history of the Bengali speaking peoples. Basalt sculptures from the Pala and Sena periods with a distinctive blend of Hindu and Buddhist design styles are exhibited at the Ashutosh Museum of Indian Art. The museum also houses an extensive collection of patachitras or painted scrolls from Bengal, playing cards, palm leaf manuscripts and ritual objects of different eras in Bengal's history.
GARDENS AND AMUSEMENT PARKS Aquatica The main magnetism of Aquatica is the Aqua Wave Pool which has placed it in the row of the best amusement parks in Chennai. The changing waves of the place gifts you ultimate enjoyment. The Cyclone Pool which is also known as Tornado is another focal point of attraction in this theme park of Kolkata. The Aqua Dance Floor will incite you for a non-stop dance with water all over your body. Nicco Park Nicco Park is called the Disneyland of Kolkata. This is a true wonderland for children. River Cave, Water Coaster, Water Chute, Toy Train are some of the funny rides of the Kolkata amusement park. But if you want to scream real crazy, you have to try the Cyclone ride. It will toss you up and down and from unbelievable heights you
will spool down at fullest pace. If you are not of that nerve, try out the Magic Carpet and the Cave ride, distinguished features of the craziest amusement parks in Kolkata. Science City The park serves as an infotainment park of the city. The reason for it becoming one of the most-visited amusement parks in City is the lucid exposition of scientific applications that create fun and awe both. This is a must-visit for students. The Space Theater is the main point of attraction here. Millennium Park The Millennium Park, Kolkata is located strategically on the banks of River Hooghly and in the vicinity of BBD Bagh, probably the busiest location in the city. the park is brilliantly connected to almost all corners of the city by the traffic that flows through the Strand Road. The park is attended by thousands every year and has come up fast as a major tourist attraction of the city.The park allures the visitors with the array benches on the riverside and enjoys the exquisite sight of the dark green river and the riot of the colors on it. The soothing breeze provides the healing touch to the rustic mind and the buzz of the crowd and the numerous birds creates magical environment in which one can easily lose his senses and submit himself in the hands of nature. The sunsets at the park are its special features with the golden hue of the setting sun creating your personal backdrop. The sight of the Howrah Bridge laying aside the park adds the glamour to the marvelous setting. Millennium Park is quite different from other amusement parks in the city. This one is based on the fun derived from nature not the materials, which makes this one a truly special place to visit the city. Other than these gardens we can see Zoological garden,Botanical garden and Agri-Horticultural gardens which are the destinations of fun and learning for kids as well as adults. Shopping at Kolkata There is absolutely no d e a r t h of s h o p p i n g destinations in Kolkata. There are several markets which dot the cityscape offering a varied range of items. A number of new shopping Malls have come up recently promise everything under one roof. With such plenty of choices at hand one just needs to decide Where to shop in Kolkata and head straight to that particular shopping destination.
Dakshinapan Shopping Complex, Kolkata is huge open-air Complex which has got two floors with a beautiful courtyard in the centre. The Dakshinapan Shopping Complex in Kolkata houses many State Government outlets which sell mostly handloom and handicraft products. Apart from these there are also many privately owned shops which sell foot wear, ethnic dresses as well as dress. The prices are also reasonably cheap. Another famous shopping place is the Fancy Market.This is a one roof Shopping Complex which houses shops selling mostly imported/ foreign goods. Household goods, glassware, clothes, shoes, cassettes, CD's, crystal ware, cosmetics, canned food products and imported chocolates are only some of the items that flood the Fancy Market of Kolkata.Other than these shopping malls,there are so many shopping spots such as New Market,Shoba Bazar,Shyam Bazar,Shriram Arcade etc. Kolkata is known for its vibrant, vivid, joyful lifestyle and hence it is widely famous as “city of joy� nourished from ethnic culture, various traditions and living of the natives which directly impacts the lifestyle standards of the localities in the capital city, Kolkata. As being the cultural city also Kolkata, offers a lot of entertainment leisures to its residents that leads to various cultural events and festivals to know the customs and traditions efficiently. The city has lots of big markets, shopping places, Bars, Pubs, hotels, various cuisines which can definitely change the buds of taste of anyone, apart from these the city has ancient and contemporary art galleries, clubs, theatres and outwards spots where one can go and enjoy. Capital city Kolkata is a home of Bengalis who are best known for their unique sensibility, for whom every activity is a joyful commitment whether it is a carnival or a festival. The Bengalis know how to bring the joy and makes the city proud of having its delightful dwellers. The best time to visit Kolkata is October to march.Local means of transport are easily available for travelling around the city.Metro railways are also a favorable option.The park street area is famous for restaurents.Except the core of Kolkata,the out skirts are equally important as tourist centres.The tourism of Kolkata is has developed around the historical buildings and their cultural significance. Kolkata is one of the few cities,which attracts ample amount of tourists from abroad.Comparing to the other heritage places of West Bengal,Kolkata is the preferable site for the tourists because Kolkata provides pretty comfortable accommodation for the tourists. So Enjoy... The City of Joy!!!
UNIQUE TIMES June 2012 39
BOOKS
The Amul campaign tells the stories of India, a hoarding at a time. The hoardings are markers of the ‘popular’ history of India and have been followed by fans for decades. Timeless and ageless, this long-running campaign has captivated Indians of all ages. The key character in this saga is the little girl in polka dots, who helped Amul Butter win over an entire nation. This book celebrates her journey through the eyes of prominent writers, public figures and the subjects of the hoardings themselves. It contains a series of vignettes, creating a patchwork quilt of essays, snippets and selections of classic hoardings. It offers us an inside peek into the back story of the creation of the ads. Amul’s India is a celebration that would be of enormous interest to an observer of contemporary India, be it a brand manager, a management student or a fan of Amul. Or just somebody who wants a rollicking good time.
Amul’s India: Based On 50 Years of Amul Advertising (Paperback) by GUJARAT CO-OPERATIVE MILK MARKETING FEDE Publisher: Collins Business (2012) Price: Rs. 299/-
You are 16, going on 17. Steve Jobs was all of sixteen when he met Stephen Wozniak. What resulted was Apple. When Sergey Brin and Larry Page met at Stanford, they were in their early twenties. They were soon to start Google.
With Bin Laden dead, Pakistan threatened by internal power struggles, relationships between the United States and Pakistan at an all time low, and as the US and Britain begin their withdrawal from Afghanistan, what are the possibilities and hazards facing the world's most unstable region? Where is the Taliban now, and how do they figure in the future of Pakistan as well as Afghanistan? What does the immediate future hold, and what are the choices that Pakistan, Afghanistan and the West can make? These are some of the crucial questions that Ahmed Rashid takes on in this follow up to his acclaimed Descent into Chaos. Rashid correctly predicted that the Iraq war would need to be refocused into Afghanistan, and that Pakistan would emerge as the leading player through which American interests and actions would have to be directed.
Pakistan on The Brink: The Future of Pakistan, Afghanistan and The West (Paperback) by Ahmed Rashid Publisher: Allen Lane (2012) Price: Rs. 399/-
From financial crises to the woes of householders, from political instability to rampant corruption, Laxman’s Common Man cartoons capture the entire gamut of contemporary Indian experience. This special collection featuring the hundred most memorable Common Man cartoons of all time is a tribute to India’s best-loved cartoonist and one of the most striking voices commenting on Indian socio-political life.
Today’s teenagers are our smartest generation yet. They are tomorrow’s entrepreneurs, investors, managers, policy makers, watchdogs and of course, consumers. But do you know what the corporate and business world is all about? How do businesses touch everyone’s lives? What really makes an entrepreneur tick? How does the engine of a company run? Who is a social entrepreneur? If you are curious, come join Subroto Bagchi and a group of smart teenagers on their exciting voyage of discovery, and in the process, get yourself a teen MBA!
MBA At 16: A Teenager’s Guide To Business (Paperback) by Subroto Bagchi Publisher: Penguin Young Adult (2012) Price: Rs. 199/-
40 UNIQUE TIMES June 2012
The Very Best of The Common Man (Paperback) by R. K. Laxman Publisher: Penguin India (2012) Price: Rs. 250/-
Business Model You (BMY) is being produced by the same five-man team that created Business Model Generation and employs the same reader-driven, online community membership model. Where Business Model Generation (BMG) taught managers a unique and powerful way to summarize any business, and any business model, on a single sheet of paper, Business Model You! (BMY) teaches readers how to draw "personal business models" that clarify the essence of their work -- and reveal new career and life possibilities.
Business Model You: A One Page Method for Reinventing Your Career (Paperback) by Tim Clark, Alexander Osterwalder, Yves Pigneur Publisher: Wiley India Publication (2012) Price: Rs. 599
Almost every important speech that Sangma delivered in the LokSabha and the RajyaSabha has been incorporated here. Also included are his rulings as the Speaker, LokSabha, the speeches delivered by him at national and international conferences and seminars, and his midnight speech in the Central Hall of Parliament on the golden jubilee of India’s Independence. These speeches reflect the vision and the concern of an eminent parliamentarian for the development of the country and its citizens, and give an insight into the working of the world’s largest democracy.
A LIFE IN POLITICS By: P. A. Sangma ISBN:9789350291511 Cover Price: Rs. 799.00
Economic Survey 2011-12 identifies growth and price stability as the major challenges of macroeconomic policymaking. The Indian economy grew by 6.9 per cent in 2011-12, after having grown at the rate of 8.4 per cent in each of the two preceding years. However, the Survey underlines that by cross-country comparison, India remains among the forerunners. It argues that with agriculture and services continuing to perform well, India’ slowdown can be attributed to weakening industrial growth. This year’s Survey has, for the first time, a chapter on India and the global economy, highlighting India’s role as a constructive player in the evolving global order.
Economic Survey 2011-12 (Paperback) by GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF FINANCE Publisher: Oxford University Press (2012) Price: Rs. 350
The most authoritative reference on the subject, this encyclopedia covers classical, folk, film, and other musical forms in India. Providing an overview of the historical and cultural contexts of the musical forms, instruments, and composers among others, this encyclopedia includes contributions from leading scholars and experts from all over India and abroad. In addition, this text includes historical information on the music of India’s neighboring countries, the influence of Western music in India, and the prevelence of Indian music in popular drama and film.
The Oxford Encyclopedia of the Music of India (Hardcover) by Sangit Mahabharati Publisher: Oxford University Press Price: Rs. 9950
UNIQUE TIMES June 2012 41
BOOK REVIEW
All the stories from Revolutions to Fairytale on 12th main depict life changing situations of different people.
DIFFICULT PLEASEURES Difficult Pleasures (Hardcover) by Anjum Hasan Publisher: Viking (2012) Price: Rs. 399 42 UNIQUE TIMES June 2012
Anjum Hasan’s new book Difficult Pleasures is a collection 13 stories where the common thread is that every story has an unexpected ending. The stories are all set in different cities, like Bangalore, Shillong and other major cities. The cities are vividly narrated and even clearly narrated are the character’s thinking which seems to be universal. The character narration is very impressive.
the uselessness of life. The reader will get a very different view on life, its needs, pleasures and sufferings. Perhaps the best aspect of these stories is their restraint. The stories in the collection can be compared with classical short stories. The very interesting ones I can suggest is Good Housekeeping, Immanuel Kant in Shillong and Revolutions.
Some stories have incidents which fill us with grief. The pathos the character undergoes which becomes the turning point. All the stories from Revolutions to Fairytale on 12th main depict life changing situations of different people. Sometimes it is for a child like Neel, sometimes it is Science and sometimes for an old professor.
Anjum Hasan has to be appreciated for her simple writing conversations that weave the stories together. She writes in an unpredictable but true to life manner. All stories in the collection are interesting and do not lend any dull moment. The reader will get entangled in the story telling. The apparent sorrow in most of the stories is but purging. Difficult Pleasures give a good reading experience.
Love lost, tragedy, friendship, magic and family ties underline all stories. But all stories depict the simplicity and sometimes
www.pegasusindia.org
MBA AWARD 2012
PEGASUS THE EVENT MAKERS
M.A. Yusuf Ali Wins MBA Award 2012
2 Big Brands 5 Jury Members Come together to proclaim the only Malayalee Business Achiever in the world for 2012
Malayalee Business Achiver
World Hunt 2012 MBA Award is a prestigious award given to a business man with an asset base of 5,000 crore and a big heart for social causes
MOVIE REVIEW
A tender romantic life can be tough for a man who teaches occasionally at a college for a living and lives in a tiny flat with nothing much to 'sacrifice'.
Movie Review: ARIKE Director: Shyamaprasad 44 UNIQUE TIMES June 2012
Arike has a simple stor y with an uncomplicated plot. But it’s Shyamaprasad’s skill that makes the movie a delight to watch. He has always delivered great movies. This cannot be considered his greatest but certainly it is directed with great skill. The movie is about three young people who are very different from each other. The characters can be found in the people around you. The actors have done a great job and subtle emotions are conveyed very beautifully.
him. Usual reasons like cast, status and money comes into play. Kalpana stands by Shanthanu and they plan to get married secretly in a register office. Shanthanu is running around to buy a good flat for both to live. Kalpana seems to very aggressive in her commitment but in a turn of events she makes a complete u-turn leaving Shanthanu helpless. Anuradha is also surprised at Kalpana's decision but she has one more duty to convey the marriage news to Shanthanu.
The movie revolves around Shanthanu (Dileep) who has a small job. He used to teach in college where, he fell in love with his student Kalpana (Samvratha). Kalpana comes from an aristocratic Brahmin family all the family members are very concerned about Kalpana. Anuradha (Mamta) is a common friend of the lovers, a lecturer in a college who helps Shanthanu and Kalpana meet. She even writes love letters for Kalpana. Mamta shows her talent in acting right from the beginning. She has a great respect for Shanthanu and Kalpana as she thinks that they are in true love. Anuradha’s respect for her friends also comes in the light that she has unpleasant memories of her first love.
The film has a soul which many films today are lacking. The characters are the one you and me find in our everyday life. The problems are very real. Shanthanu depicts any ordinary man, helpless when the love of his life dumps him. He tries to find some solace in philosophy, but ultimately want someone else to take the place of Kalpana. Mamta has done extremely well in her role as Anuradha. Samvratha enacted with fiery Kalpana very well. Innocent, Chitra Iyer, Ajmal, Urmila and all others do justice to their roles. Madampu as Guru, brings in some lighter moments to an otherwise serious movie. It is but Mamta who as Anuradha makes a brilliant performance.
Kalpana’s family knows about her affair with Shanthanu, but is reluctant to marry her to
A simple movie, but very different from usual flicks, puts the common man at the centre stage.
COMPANY FOCUS
Meet And Greet Service at Cochin International Airport’s
Within the short span of 15 years of its existence, Cochin International Airport (CIAL) made many records of its own. Now, CIAL is witnessing 181 International Aircraft movements and 232 Domestic Aircraft movements on weekly basis. CIAL is carrying 11000 passengers per day. To help the smooth transition of passengers through the airport procedures CIAL introduced in June 2011, Globetrot – Meet and Greet Service. Clients receive personal assistance by an individual who can anticipate any issues which may arise. This makes for a smooth and hassle free experience. Clients are escorted through airports procedures and 46 UNIQUE TIMES June 2012
are constantly kept up to date about the status of their flights. The services can be tailored made as per the requirement of the passenger. Three types of services are offered – Just Check out, Feel Safe and Royal Welcome. It can be daunting to arrive in a new country. Not so when you have a warm and friendly smile ready to meet you at the airport and welcome you. It takes the hassle out of traveling and helps one enjoy the benefits of a professional Meet and Greet service. Whether you are flying away on a family holiday, or are heading on a business trip, you can relax and travel in style with CIAL’ s Meet and Greet service.
You will be met on arrival at the terminal by a driver, so you can head to check-in without having to wait around. Globetrot services are a great option if you are planning to travel with a lot of luggage. A highly trained driver will meet you at the terminal on your arrival and when you return, reducing the need for long walks with heavy baggage. If you are traveling with children Meet and Greet will help rest little legs. You will be met on arrival at the terminal by a driver, so you can head to check-in without having to wait around. On your return your car will be waiting for you outside departures, great for a prompt journey home. Globetrot is an offering of Bird Group. For Booking Of Globetrot Service at Cochin International Airport e-mail: maascok@birdwfs.in or Contact : +91 9995805954 / 55
Today, with over 40 years of experience and more than 40 offices supported by over 6000 well trained staff and an impressive clientele of over 500 top corporates, Bird Group is India's fastest growing business conglomerates. Bird Group's core business
includes Travel Technology, Aviation Ser vices, Hospitality, Retail and Education. Headquartered in New Delhi, India, Bird Group provides the most comprehensive portfolio of aviation services comprising aircraft navigation, ground handling, customer management, logistics, ticketing, cargo management and baggage handling at India's three busiest airports – New Delhi (state-of-the-art Terminal 3), Bengaluru and Kochi. Bird Air Services, Bird Travels, GlobeGround India and Bird Worldwide Flight Services are the Group's aviation companies under this vertical.Bird Group provides the most comprehensive portfolio of aviation services that ensure high standards of quality, safety and customer satisfaction to ensure the best in Indian aviation. The group has plans to take its meet and greet service to all major airports within India. UNIQUE TIMES June 2012 47
AYURVEDA
Ayurveda’s Role in
Dealing with Diseases Caused by
Environmental
Pollution
Majority of people are too busy providing for their existence in varying degrees. In the process they tend to ignore the fact that man cannot exist in this world alone. The long term survival of man on this planet is possible only if he can keep the life sustaining environment on this planet intact. It is important to realize that our life depends on the overall well- being of the fragile eco-system on earth. The very foundation of such inter-dependence is our environment. The factors that stabilize the environment are complex. It involves air, water, soil, all life on earth big and small and its coexistence through co-operation and even natural conflicts.
VAIDYA VACHASPATHY N.K.PADMANABHAN VAIDYAR Ph: 0484 2206560 e-mail: info@nupalremedies.com Web: www.nupalremedies.com 48 UNIQUE TIMES June 2012
The deterioration of the environment has become a global crisis at present. We have a very sick environment. Factors like the air pollution, water pollution, soil pollution, the green- house effect, deforestation etc. contribute to the imbalance in nature, which in turn precipitate environmental calamities
like flash floods, acute drought, cyclones and degeneration of vegetation. Excessive exploitation limits the availability of resources. Unscientific and irresponsible industrial practices pave the way for the escalated emission of green-house gases. The excessive levels of carbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide, methane and chlorofluoro carbon are other green- house gases which will drastically increase the atmospheric temperature. This changes the rain pattern; sea level rises. The rate of the ultraviolet rays of the sun falling on earth increases. The entire life on earth gets affected one way or the other. Life becomes intolerable for all beings on earth including human beings. Visible changes are already being experienced on earth and the consequences are beginning to show. Now is the time to be aware of some of the regional reasons which contribute to the worldwide crisis. Excessive resource exploitation is detrimental to a consistent development. Some contributing factors are unscientific highly polluting factories and industries with wasteful implementation of energy, agriculture strictly based on profit making, indiscriminate resource exploitation which destroys bio-diversity etc. These are some factors that we need to control and prevent regionally so that we can help maintain the balance of our environment globally. Ayur veda masters knew about the contagious nature of diseases and the micro-organisms that caused them. But these disease causing germs were not studied categorically in the Ayurveda system of medical science. This is primarily because Ayurveda system believes that it is the imbalance of’ Dhoshas ‘in the body which makes room for the disease causing germs to exploit such weaknesses in the body. If the ‘dhoshas’ in the body are balanced correctly, a person won’t get sick even after getting exposed to disease causing organisms. Contagious diseases are called so, because they are transmitted through different media like air, water, food etc; and also from infected people or carriers of diseases. Ayurveda scientists also recognized the contagious nature of some diseases. The following are some of the health recommendations given in ancient Ayurveda texts. “When one shares food from the same plate and when one shares the same bed it is
possible to contract eye diseases and skin diseases”. – Vagbhathacharyan. “High fever, diseases that cause loss of weight, eye diseases, and a variety of sexually oriented diseases can be spread from person to person” Susruthacharyan. Disease causing germs are microorganisms. These organisms usually attack quite unexpectedly. According to Ayurveda it first appears as disease symptoms and subsequently it manifests its side effects. Susruthacharyan has stressed the role of micro-organisms in the causes and spread of contagious diseases. Air Pollution: Air may be polluted in so many different ways. The following are some of the indicators. Untimely seasonal changes, totally still atmosphere, very fast wind conditions, extreme heat, extreme atmospheric conditions, harsh wind which makes noise, obstructions in the flow of air, air contamination by poisonous fumes, humid air, dusty air, air filled with fumes etc.
diseases and many gland related disorders. In the year 1854, the then president of USA, Franklin Pierce asked the native Indian chief to sell a large area of land to him. This was a totally upsetting request from the perspective of the Indian chief who considered land as own mother. The chief gave a profound answer to the president in the form of a question. He asked with a broken spirit: How can anyone buy or sell air and this pristine land? Such a concept is unknown to us. The purity and freshness of air and the sparkling of the water does not belong to us or anybody. So how can you buy it from us? As for my people, every part of this land is sacred. The Indian chief’s answer is relevant even today after one and a half centuries. It reflects a unique perspective on the depth of what nature should mean to man, and how to preserve its sanctity. This principle was
Diseases caused by polluted air. Poisonous fumes mixed in air can tire birds and even kill them. For human beings the same can cause nausea, headache and acute eye diseases. The changes in season can also bring changes to the quality of water. Pure water is tasteless, light and clear.
alien to the white men. For the native Indians earth is their mother, and they have a deep abiding respect for nature.
Causes of impurities in water and the diseases born as a result.
Man’s actions are destroying this planet. For example, soil erosion which is a result of deforestation depletes essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorous and potash from the soil. Iodine also is lost like this. This eventually disappears from the drinking water also. The absence of these vital nutrients can affect the thyroid glands. The increase of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is increasing the ambient temperature on earth’s surface. The present average temperature of 33 to 36 degree centigrade in places like Kochi could easily increase to 40 degrees in a matter of years. This will alter rain patterns. Our AC units and fridges which contribute to chlorofluorocarbon eat into the ozone layer which protects the
Contamination by insects, snakes, urine, fecal matter, dead disintegrating matter, grass, dust, mud, lotus, algae, and also leaves which fall-off trees makes water body impure. Never use water which does not receive sun or moon light, water which does not have contact with air, infested with small insects, discolored, thick with froth, bad tasting, bad smelling, muddy, very hot or very cold. Such water is not good for drinking. Do not drink the first rain water when the rainy season starts. Beware of water that could be contaminated by spider excretion. Be aware that contaminated water can lead to a variety of stomach ailments, fever, cough, skin
earth from serious ultra violet rays. Melanoma of the skin and other cancers are on the rise due to this. According to Swatharopanishath the divinity in nature and in the heavens which is trees, are being destroyed by the evil forces. It has now become a reality all across the world. Pollution kills human beings. The famous scientist Aldus Faxali in his writing states that deforestation is just like a nuclear bomb that can destroy cities. Likewise soil erosion can kill the motherhood of city life. Industrial waste seeps into the ground and pollutes drinking water, while reducing its natural flow. 2/3rd of all patients admitted into our hospitals are victims of contaminated water related diseases. It is a shame, because we are known to have an abundance of pure water. If we don’t take environment protection seriously, our food, drinking water, atmosphere, light, air and even rivers will get poisonous. Even rat fever, malaria and many new diseases are the result of unhealthy environment. Contagious diseases are steadily on the rise these days. Jaundice, hepatitis-b and aids are good examples. The time has come to explore the possibilities with Ayurveda to help overcome these contagious diseases. When prevention is failing everywhere, we could now focus on cure. When we see outbreaks of contagious diseases we s h o u l d u n d e r t a ke g o v e r n m e n t approved involvement, like the allopath system does. It is time we started Ayurveda medical camps that can conduct relief programs. Unfortunately, at present such initiatives are the monopoly of a certain system of treatment. Selfishness and greed are now ruining the health of man and the environment. The indiscriminate use of contaminants in milk, fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, the health hazards of colas, sweets, artificial coloring in food, additives like aginomotto etc. should be made aware to the public. If we continue on this destructive path we are traveling now, the next generation is sure to suffer serious consequences, and we will be held morally responsible!
UNIQUE TIMES June 2012 49
ASK BEAUTY EXPERT
Q. How can I tighten sagging skin on my face? Good question with a cost-effective answer: egg whites. Whip up an egg white and brush on face. Let dry 15-20 minutes. Spritz on water to soften and then wash off. I would suggest getting a couple of ice cubes, and with circular motions, rub the ice cubes all over your face. You will be refreshed and look like you had an expensive facial procedure. Follow with a good moisturizer. Q. Can permanent tattoos cause skin cancer? If I am preparing for an occasion, when should I get a permanent tattoo done?
Tressa Varghese Director, Phoebe International
50 UNIQUE TIMES June 2012
No, skin cancer is not linked to tattooing. Cheap inks, however, may cause allergic reactions or dermatitis. And reused needles may transmit blood borne diseases like HIV or Hepatitis B. So choose your tattoo artist with care. A tattoo takes about two weeks to heal. Remember that when you gear up for an event. Also keep in mind that you can't
swim, gym, expose yourself to direct sunlight or apply soap during that period. Make sure you follow other care instructions given by your tattoo artist. Q. Can hair colour cause premature greying? If you have a tendency to grey, then hair colour may trigger further greying, but not otherwise. Bad quality hair colour may damage your hair, so choose good quality, ammonia-free ones that are safe and effective. These leave your hair looking shiny and healthy.
GADJETS
Apple iPod touch 4th Generation 64 GB (White) with 3.5 inch Display
iPod 64 GB Memory 3.5 inch Display 40hrs Audio Playback Price: Rs. 25,900/-
Acer AOD 270
Aspire One Netbook (Balloon Carnival)
Intel 2nd Generation Atom Dual Core 2 GB DDR3 RAM 10.1 Inch Screen Windows 7 Starter with 1 Year International Travelers Warranty See Details Price: 17,490/- (Prices are inclusive of all taxes)
52 UNIQUE TIMES June 2012
Micromax Funbook Wi-Fi, 4 GB Android v4.0 OS 7-inch Touchscreen 1.2 GHz Processor 0.3 MP Primary Camera Price: 6499/-
Microsoft X-Box 360 4 GB Kinect Bundle (Black) 4 GB Kinect Bundle Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound Xbox 360 Wireless Controller 4GB Wireless: IEEE 802.11b/g/n USB: 5 HDMI: Yes Ethernet: Yes Controller Ports: 2 Price: 24,990/-
Nikon Coolpix S100 Point & Shoot (Silver) 16.0 Megapixels Optical Zoom: 5x CMOS Image Sensor with 3.5 inch LCD with 2 year Nikon India Warranty Price: 12,560/- (inclusive of all taxes)
UNIQUE TIMES June 2012 53
GADJETS
SHARP 70 Inches Full HD LCD LC70LE735M Television Series: Aquos TV Type: Full HD, LCD TV Screen Size & Resolution: 70 inches with 1920 x 1080 resolution Internet Connectivity: LAN Contrast Ratio: Mega Contrast Backlight Technology: LED Other Video Features: 1080p HD-ready, 1080/24p Signal Input, Wide Viewing Angle, 3D Y/C Digital Combfilter, NTSC, PAL60 Hz Sound Technology: Digital Technology with SRS TruSurround HD Total Speaker Power Output RMS: 20 W Price: Rs. 4,46,290/-
Citizen Eco-Drive Analog Watch For Men (Gold, Silver) Round Dial Silver and Gold Strap Stainless Steel Case Water Resistant Price: 31,500/-
54 UNIQUE TIMES June 2012
MapmyIndia Road Pilot II GPS Navigator
8.9cm navigation device with all India maps on In-built 2GB Flash memory Intuitive Touch Screen With Multiple Navigation Options Built-in GPS for powerful navigationUltra long battery life, and accelerated hardware performance Lightweight and stylish GPS navigation device with built-in rechargeable battery for portable use Price: 9,990/-
Nikon D3100
Effective Pixels :14.2 million Image SensorNikon DX format: (23.1 x 15.4 mm) CMOS sensor Battery Life (on a fully charged battery): Approx. 550 shots Tripod Socket:1/4 in. (ISO1222) Weight (without battery, memory card or body cap):Approx. 455g Price: 32,950
UNIQUE TIMES June 2012 55
GADJETS
Samsung Galaxy S III Samsung Galaxy S III is the most awaited phone in recent times. After it was unveiled in London in mega event in London fans have been waiting for the phone to hit the market. It will be soon available in India. Most probably while you are reading this article, the phone will be available in Indian markets. Exact prices are not known , but is said be above 40,000 ruppes.
Android v 4. OS 4.8 inch HD Super AMOLED (1280x720) display 8 MP Primary Camera 1.2 GHz Processor 16/ 32GB User memory, MicroSD slot (up to 64GB). Galaxy S 3 has a Li-Ion 2100 mAh
56 UNIQUE TIMES June 2012
FASHION
Choosing the Perfect Outfit
Made Simple There are the good days, when you can find the right outfit easily, and you feel like your on top of the world. Then there are times when shirts, kurtas, jeans, and salwars go flying over your shoulder as you dive into rummaging through your drawers, because you can’t seem to put an outfit together for a night out or a day out with your family, and friends. One of the most difficult things for not only girls, but guys as well is finding the right clothes with the suitable colors, the right shoes, and the right accessories. Choosing the Right Colors
By Denisha Sahadevan
58 UNIQUE TIMES June 2012
When you go shopping don’t always go for your favorite colors, instead choose according to the colors which suit you the best. This means choose colors which make the tones in your skin stand out, helping to
define your features. How are you going to know which ones are the right colors? Dark skin tones Those of you who have dark skin tones, learn to love the skin you are you’re in. There is no doubt that there are a few people out there who wish they were just a tone lighter, when really what they need to realize is that dark is beautiful, especially when the darkness of your skin tone is highlighted with lighter colored clothes. Usually colors like peach, baby pink or other various light colors do the trick. Light skin tones For those with the lighter skin tone, you can wear almost anything except light colors which are not recommended. If you want to
accentuate the beauty of the lightness of your skin, wear dark colors. Using colors such as maroon, black, or deep sea blue helps to bring out the features of the skin tone. You become the colors which you wear, for example if you wear color tones that are golden, then a warm yellowish glow will be brought out on your face, and if you wear colors falling into the pink category, it’s a way to bring out the pink in your cheeks. Rules for Patterns, Stripes, & Floral designs For those of you who are a little bit on the overweight side it is recommended to avoid outfits with horizontal stripes, and floral patterns, they make you look even chubbier than you really are. Instead aim for the simple patterns. However people that are skinny or fall into the curvy/fit category, wear floral designs, and over designed patterns, it enhances your beauty with elegance. Skinny people do the opposite, avoid anything that is too simple, but don’t go overboard. Girl or a guy remember the way or the type of clothes you wear depend on two main features; your height, and your weight. First Time Wearing a Sari? Sari’s truly make a girl feel as if they have taken a step into becoming a young woman. Sometimes when you wear your first sari, it maybe a disaster because you might not know what type of sari suits you best, or how to have your blouse tailored in the right way, and this is the area where mother’s will help you young ladies. Just keep in mind, if you’re short, go for sari’s that have thin borders, if your tall wide borders will suit you best. If your chubby, then wear sari’s that are made off thin material (not see through, but thin material). If you’re skinny, cotton sari’s that bulge out when draped are perfect to hide the bones. Right Pair of Jeans, Tights, Tops, and Kurta’s
tight clothes’, it’s just low class ladies, wear clothes that are just the perfect fit or just a tad loose. For those who are very skinny, if you wear skin tight jeans, it’s better because as mentioned earlier it will make it seem as if you have a little meat on you in comparison to wearing lose clothes. Men the perfect fit concept is applicable to you as well, just remember not too loose or too tight. When it comes to wearing tights for girls, always have a pair of black tights’ and white tights in stock, since you can mix n’ match them with any tops. When it Comes to Accessories Girls that are chubby do not use big accessories like big necklaces, earrings, or purses or too much jewelry it makes you look overloaded! Always be simple. It’s more sophisticated. Girl’s that are skinny, use necklaces, earrings, and other accessories which stand out. Either way make sure none of the colors clash, that doesn’t mean to make the colors all the same, mix the colors, and make sure that there’s contrast between combinations. Shoes, Shoes, Shoes! Now when it comes to short people, learn to take pride in the fact that you are short, because God made you short. After coming to terms with the fact that you are short (which is the whole admitting, and loving yourself for who you are step), then if you would like to do so, wear heels. If you don’t want to then don’t, it’s your choice, you’re beautiful with or without them. Moving onto tall people, you can avoid wearing heels you’re already tall enough, and on top of that to wear heels to make yourself look taller is just…plain wrong. Think of the short people, have compassion, but if it’s a must on heels then please feel free to do so. Just keep in mind short or tall, heels will later on be of a consequence to your health so don’t wear it religiously. Another thing for the adults is what’s with the sneakers, and jeans combo? When you wear jeans, and skirts wear beach sandals. Leave the sneakers for the days when you work out. It throws off your whole outfit.
For girls with the hips, or those that are fit, it is recommended that you not wear skin UNIQUE TIMES June 2012 59
TECHNOLOGY
Yahoo’s new browser tool Axis, a smart by Yahoo to drive itself to mobile and Web market. Axis will be available as an app for Apple mobile devices such as the iPhone and iPad, as well as on desktops as an add-on to browsers such as Internet Explorer, Firefox, Chrome and Safari. Yahoo special project director has confirmed that Axis will "set out to completely re-think and re-design how users search and browse the Web."A search will reveal a thumbnail image of web page results instead of listing links like Google currently does. Reviews thus far have been on the large positive. CNET's Rafe Needleman has said, "Mobile is where the action is, so it makes sense that Yahoo threw the bulk of its development love into the tablet and smart phone versions." He added, "On the iPad, Axis is simply a great browser. The integrated search feature is intuitive, and being able to move through search results without having to go back to search makes sense. After only a few minutes using it I thought, why hasn't Google done this yet? It's that good.”
iCar
Steve Jobs
unfulfilled
dream job. Steve jobs had dreamt of designing an iCar before his death. Apple board member Mickey Drexler revealed this news. Jobs didn’t actually design it, but everybody now wants to know how it will look like. Various creative of the iCar are now showcased on the web. According to Drexler, he used to design all sorts of stuff in his hospital bed. Speaking at Fast Company's recent Innovation Uncensored conference, Drexler expressed sadness at the current state of automobile industry in United States. "Steve's dream before he died was to design an iCar" he added.
60 UNIQUE TIMES June 2012
Google Knowledge Graph Google will start incorporating the "knowledge graph" it has been building for two years into its search results. The new technology is set to deliver context- sensitive information on the searches people do. The feature will prompt users to use ambiguous queries to finite results; the knowledge graph is now limited to American English Google said this week that its knowledge base has grown to 500 million entities at present, with 3.5 billion attributes of and
Microsoft opens up So.cl
connections between those entities. Users who search for a person, place or thing already in Google's knowledge graph will see a panel on the right side of their search results that offers a summary of the most basic information about that query item. For instance, a search on the American architect Frank Lloyd Wright will deliver basic biographical data as well as links to particular buildings he designed. It will also point to information about similar architects. The new search format is intended to improve Google's "time to result" performance, said Wright. The knowledge graph already returns answers to almost 40 percent of the questions users would otherwise ask next, she said, meaning users can get the same information with fewer clicks.
Microsoft has opened up its So.cl, a social networking service to the general public, which help users share and comment on interesting search results and connects with similar minded people. The product is targeted at students and earlier was limited to universities and schools. Microsoft said that the product was developed by its Fuse Labs unit as a research product. Members can create collages of content using Bing search engine technology and share it with others. Like minded people can then be identified added into the group. Users can sign up with facebook and So.cl is placed like an experiment and not as a competitor. Members can sign in using their Facebook login details; however, their So.cl activities do not show up on Facebook's pages unless the option is activated.
UNIQUE TIMES June 2012 61
WHAT’S GOING ON
Will you get a million likes if you add a life event in your Facebook Timeline? No. But ask Facebook founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg, he will have a different answer. Mark married Priscilla Chan and updated his timeline on May 19, 2012. A picture of the newlywed, the bride in a white gown and Mark in dark suit and tie with a description ‘Married Priscilla Chan’ got over a million likes in Facebook.
Another breakup story; this time not from Bollywood, but from the Auto industry. Italian auto major Fiat has decided to take over the control of distribution of Fiat Cars from its joint venture partner Tata Motors. After a lackluster period of falling sales Fiat is going to set up a separate company that will assume responsibility for all the commercial and services activities from the current team.
26 year old, Israeli supermodel Ban Rafaeli has been crowned the world’s hottest women by men’s magazine Maxim in their 2012 Hot 100 list. Ban was ranked 19th in 2010 list of Maxim. Olivia Munn came in second place for the second time in a row. Other names in the top five list are Mila Kunis, Singer Kate Perry and Olivia Wilde in third, fourth and fifth position respectively.
62 UNIQUE TIMES June 2012
Sharon Stone’s former nanny is suing the actor, claiming racial abuse. Erlinda Elemen was fired by Stone in February 2011, as she found her nanny had wrongly been paid overtime. In her complaint she accused the actor made a number of disparaging comments about Filipinos, She also accuses that Stone criticized her for frequently attending church and even reading the Bible and ordered not to talk Stone’s three children.
Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor are reported to get married in October. If the reports are true it won’t be just Brangelina wedding, which will be a high profile celebrity wedding happening this year. Kareena Kapoor is said to be busy finishing her assignments before October. Apart from the much hyped film, Heroine, Kareena is said to appear in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s film Ram Leela.
Ashley Rebello, the famous fashion designer said that today’s celebrities are very knowledgeable when it comes to fashion, especially the ladies. He even pointed out that the kind of fashion awareness that someone like Sonakshi Sinha has is incredible.
UNIQUE TIMES June 2012 63
KERENG/2011/42633