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November 2004
Kunhalikutty is head of mafia: Ajitha
Tuesday, November 30, 2004
Kerala News, KOZHIKODE: Anweshi president K Ajitha accused Industries Minister K Kunhalikutty of being mafia head.as he indulges in anti-national activities. Kunhalikutty is attempting to make accusations leveled against him appear to be accusations against his own community. This will harm only his own community. Kunhalikutty is trying to divide Hindu-Muslim communities. This is dangerous. Ajitha was speaking at a press conference here. Ajitha informed that Sthreevedi will undertake dharna in front of the Secretariat on December 10th demanding the resignation of Kunhalikutty.
League vehicles come under widespread attack, 30 injured
Tuesday, November 30, 2004
Kerala News, THALASSERY: Thirty people were injured in widespread attack on League vehicles returning after the reception accorded to Industries Minister P K Kunhalikutty. Many leaders including Perigalam village panchayat vice-president and Youth League district secretary E A Nassar were injured in the attack. It is those belonging to Cheruvanjeri Peringathoor, Chembatt areas who are being given treatment at Indira Gandhi Cooperative Hospital. The injured said that attack occurred at Muzhappillangad, Peralasseri areas. According to activists, bomb attack occurred near Muzhppilangad Kulambazar. The attack was using long swords, stones and cycle chains. Many vehicles including jeeps on coming under attack, lost control and hit the nearby walls and overturned. Over a dozen of vehicles which had gone from Panoor areas were destroyed in the attack. Ceramics chairman and former MLA K M Soopy had a miraculous escape in an attack at Muzhappilangad. Soopy said CPM activists have deliberately unleashed violence. CPM activists had stated that he will not allow Kunhalikutty to step into Kannur. However, Kunhalikutty like a man, had made a speech and went, Soopy added.
MP attacked as violence continues in Kannur
Tuesday, November 30, 2004
Kerala News, KANNUR: M P Abdulla Kutty, MP was attacked in Kannur today. It was when Abdulla kutty tried to prevent Muslim League activists from setting fire to Narath Library that he was attacked. Clashes are still continuing in Kambil near Narath. It was at 1.30 am yesterday that Abdullakutty's house was attacked. The vehicle of Kairali TV in which journalists were traveling was smashed by League activists.Rajesh Kollroth of Sudinam daily was injured. The CPM local committee office in Narath, Chadayan Memorial hall and the AKG Memorial library were also destroyed. In many parts of Kannur, violence is continuing.
MP attacked as violence continues in Kannur
Tuesday, November 30, 2004
Kerala News, KANNUR: M P Abdulla Kutty, MP was attacked in Kannur today. It was when Abdulla kutty tried to prevent Muslim League activists from setting fire to Narath Library that he was attacked. Clashes are still continuing in Kambil near Narath. It was at 1.30 am yesterday that Abdullakutty's house was attacked. The vehicle of Kairali TV in which journalists were traveling was smashed by League activists.Rajesh Kollroth of Sudinam daily was injured. The CPM local committee office in Narath, Chadayan Memorial hall and the AKG Memorial library were also destroyed. In many parts of Kannur, violence is continuing.
Sukumar Azhikode not to accept Azhuthachan award
Tuesday, November 30, 2004
Kerala News, K Dr Sukumar Azhikode today stated that he will not accept Azhuthachan award from Chief Minister Oommen Chandy.He stated this while at the residence of Justice V R Krishna Iyer. Dr Sukumar Azhikode took this stand as a mark of protest against the anti-democractic approach of chief minister. He also noted that Chandy did not pay heed to the complaint of Justice Krishna Iyer.
Kerala gets ready for its own film festival
Tuesday, November 30, 2004
Kerala News, Thiruvananthapuram,While the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) begins in Goa, Kerala is getting ready for its own International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) later this month. The ninth edition of the IFFK would screen 58 films from 40 countries from Dec 10-17, officials said. Among the films being screened would be Andrey Zvyagintsev's "The Return" from Russia, Robert Lepage's "Far Side of the Moon" from Canada, Osemene Sembene's "Moolade" from Senegal and India's "An Ode To Lost Love" by Madhu Ambat. Award winning French director Alain Corneau would head the jury, which would also include Simon Field from Britain, Mama Keita from France and Farhan Aktar from India. Indo-Asian News Service
Chandy does not have the guts: VS
Tuesday, November 30, 2004
Kerala News, THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Opposition leader V S Achuthanandan stated today that Chief Minister Oommen Chandy does not have the guts to arrest Kunhalikutty. Like Kanchikamakodi Jayendrasaraswati, Kunhalikutty too if arrested, will, on seeing the prison door come out with the truth. Kunhalikutty may have become arrogant on grounds of having escaped but this will not last long. The government who arrested Thamarakshan for attacking journalists should arrest Kunhalikutty also. VS observed that, however , Chandy who pays obeisance when he hears 'Le' of word 'League' can never arrest him. DGP had said that attempt to arrest the journalists was made following the wrong information given by the police official. However, attempt is to arrest all recognizable journalists. Instead of arresting journalists, the official who had conveyed the wrong information should be brought to book, VS noted.
India's oldest church celebrates 500 years
Tuesday, November 30, 2004
Kerala News, Kochi, Nov 26 : Santa Cruz Basilica, a 500-year-old church in Kochi, is famous all over the world. The British had partially destroyed it in 1795. Later, it was rebuilt, and is now the oldest church in the country. Celebrations for its 500th anniversary are on, and will go on throughout the year. The celebrations will be marked by religious and cultural programmes. The church is a sentinel of history. It is situated in Kochi, a city famous world over for its fascinating sights of huge cantilevered Chinese fishing nets, which were brought here by traders from the court of Kublai Khan. When the Dutch conquered Kochi in 1663 they turned every big building in the vicinity of what is now Fort Kochi into storehouses for goods and weapons. Later, British conquest of Kochi in 1795 saw the Cathedral being destroyed. It was rebuilt and consecrated on November 19, 1905.
Air Deccan drops plan to fly into Kerala
Monday, November 29, 2004
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 28 : Air Deccan has decided to drop its proposed Kerala operations due to prohibitive landing charges. Promoter director of the Bangalore-based private airline company, Captain K.J. Samuel, said the ground handling at Kochin airport is done by Air-India which charges Rs.30,000 per flight. "For us when we do the ground handling it costs us just Rs.1,500. There is no way for us to operate with our dynamic fare structure by paying such exorbitant charges. So we have decided to shelve the proposed operations to Kerala," said Samuel, who is from Kerala. Air Deccan had held talks with the Cochin International Airport officials and also asked Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy to see that the charges are reduced. "With our talks reaching nowhere, we have decided to concentrate in the northeast, especially Kolkata, and on strengthening our operations in central India," said Samuel. Air Deccan has seven ATR aircrafts that has a seating capacity of 48 and three airbuses that can take 180 passengers each. Consequent to their strengthening of operations they are soon buying five more ATR's and four airbuses.
Sonia to meet Kerala leaders on Monday
Monday, November 29, 2004
Thiruvananthapuram: Congress president Sonia Gandhi is expected to hold discussions with party leaders in Kerala during her hour-long stop at the airport here on her way to Mauritius on Monday. The Congress chief's interaction with the leaders assumes significance in the context of the demand made by a section in the party for the resignation of Industries Minister P K Kunhalikutty, facing sexual harassment allegations. According to party sources, Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, his predecessor A K Antony and party state chief Thennala Balakrishna Pillai would meet Gandhi at the VIP lounge of the airport. Some Congress leaders, who had openly aired their views on the Kunhalikutty issue, were also learnt to have sought an appointment with the Congress chief, the sources said. The Congress chief is going to Mauritius to inaugurate the Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre.
Vigilance stepped up along Kerala coast
Sunday, November 28, 2004
PTI KOCHI: Vigilance has been stepped up by the coastguard on the Kerala coast following intelligence reports about a ship moving towards the state reportedly armed with explosives from Dubai, sources said. Coastguard has stepped up its surveillance in the Kerala waters, they said. Coastguard Commandant S A Dange, when contacted, was tightlipped and declined to give any details of the ship. He, however, said that they have been asked by Mumbai coastguard to increase surveillance.
From Sweden to Sabarimala - a spiritual journey to Kerala
Sunday, November 28, 2004
Chanting Hindu god Ayappa's name and sporting black clothes and sacred beads, they set off for the Sabarimala temple Saturday. But they weren't quite Indian pilgrims. The four devotees had descended from Sweden to undertake the journey to Sabarimala, 120 km from this Kerala capital. The team is led by Donald Macfee, a 63-year-old computer teacher, and includes Joan, a 60-year-old social worker, Hans Goine, a 53-year-old insurance company official, and Gustaf, a 23-year-old student of music. "We were told by our tour planners about this temple which is a very important place of worship for Hindus and we were all excited when we left Sweden last week," Macfee told. The Sabarimala temple is visited by millions of people every year. After arriving at the Ganapati temple in the heart of the city from their hotel in Kovalam, clad in bermudas, the four Swedes changed to the traditional dress of a black mundu. They were taken into the temple sanctum sanctorum where a priest smeared their forehead with sandalwood paste. Amid the chanting of mantras, the priest asked them to wear bead necklaces - a must for anyone who visits Sabarimala. Then they squatted on the floor of the temple where another priest helped them tie a sacred bag containing offerings for the Sabarimala temple. "My son Gustaf is really excited and, besides studying, worked to save money for this trip," said his mother Katarina. Joan said: "I am fit for the nearly five-kilometre trek up the hill from Pamba (the foothills of the temple). We have lot of mountains in Sweden, so no problem." Bergitta, the wife of Goine, was a bit disappointed that she could not accompany her husband to Sabarimala. "Yes, we are aware that only elderly women can visit the temple," said Goine. But the chosen four who were going on the pilgrimage were thrilled. They emerged from the Ganapati temple chanting "Swami Ayyapo, Ayyapo Swami" and got into a vehicle to set off Sabarimala. They are expected to return Sunday night.
Promoting Kerala tourism a good option, Steve Waugh
Sunday, November 28, 2004
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 27 : Former Australian cricket captain Steve Waugh wouldn't mind being the brand ambassador to promote Kerala tourism in his country or even coaching the Indian team. Holidaying in a plush resort near Kovalam, Waugh said he had his options open and would be glad to promote Kerala in Australia. "The place is excellent even though I have been here for just two days. I don't mind being the brand ambassador to promote Kerala in Australia and for that someone has to approach me or my manager," said Waugh, winding up his two-day trip here. About a possible coaching assignment for the Indian cricket team, Waugh said: "Right now John Wright is doing a fine job, but if someone approaches me, certainly. Because my options are open." On plans for becoming a commentator, Waugh said he would prefer to wait because he would tend to be biased as most players currently are those with whom he has played. Waugh was in Kerala as AMP Sanmar's brand ambassador, which took him to six cities in southern India. Graham Meyer, managing director of AMP Sanmar, said the presence of Waugh as their ambassador had boosted sales. On being asked why the company preferred Waugh to promote a 150-year-old company in India and not someone like Sachin Tendulkar, Meyer said: "It is because we are not a 150-year-old company in India and moreover Sachin Tendulkar is expensive." Meyer added that the insurance market is growing and AMP Sanmar in its two years of operations had earned a premium income of Rs.730 million ($16 million) and is expected to touch Rs.1.15 billion ($25.5 million) by the end of the current fiscal.
Kerala launches 'Destination Clean' in Tourist centres
Sunday, November 28, 2004
New Delhi, Nov 28 Kerala will launch a 'Destination Clean" programme to preserve and conserve the natural beauty of its tourism spots, especially the beaches and backwaters, in the 'God's Own Country." Tourism Minister K C Venugopal here today that the programme, which had already been finalised, would not only spur the growth of tourist arrivals, but also generate more job to and involvement of the local people in tourism . Under the programme, the Tourism department would release funds to the 'Kudumbasree" units located near tourism centres for keeping the centres neat and clean. The activities would be coordinated by the district collectors. "The project will revolutionalise the tourism sector in the context of the increasing tourist arrivals. Natural beauty is Kerala's USP and it should be sustained at any cost. It is challenging to retain the natural beauty and keep the tourist centres clean with the increase in tourist arrivals every year," Mr Venugopal said, adding that the project would give jobs to more people in and around tourism centres. Noting that the shortage of hotel rooms during the peak season was estimated at 5000, the minister said this problem would be solved within two to three years. An additioal 2000 rooms would be available before the next season in 2005. In this context, Mr Venugopal said the government would encourage the system of 'home hospitality' in tourist spots so that the tourists would get cheaper accommodation and the local households could earn money. The Kerala Tourism Development Corporation would also add more rooms to its existing hotels. He said the KTDC's "Hotel Chaithram" at Thiruvananthapuram would be expanded within one year. The government would also encourage the private sector to set up hotels.
Police, RSB goons attack scribes
Sunday, November 28, 2004
The rift in the Revolutionary Socialist Party (Bolsehvik) ended up in street fight in the state capital on Saturday evening, when the workers owing allegiance to Prof A V Thamarakshan and Shibu Baby John disrupted the meeting scheduled to be held by the rival faction led by Minister Babu Divakaran. The goondas engaged by party workers also attacked journalists and cameramen at the meeting venue. At least seven visual media journalists, including ACV cameraman Abhilash were injured in the attack and hospitalized. The police attack against journalists happened when the scribes marched to the RSP office protesting against the earlier incident. The police arrested seven journalists after brutally assaulting them. Police took custody of journalists, after charging them with attacking the RSP office. However, police later realized their folly and admitted their mistake by unconditionally freeing all of them by 12.30 on Saturday night. Veteran political leaders and social activists joined the journalists to express solidarity when the mediamen laid siege to the police vehicle in which arrested scribes were kept in custody. Though the leaders tried to convince the chief minister about the gravity of the situation, he reportedly gave the police a free hand, that led to the untoward incidents. The media men have been facing the wrath of police and political goons for the last one month. At least 65 journalists were injured in the state in the last one-month alone in various incidents.
SP violence: Two MLAs arrested
Sunday, November 28, 2004
RSP (B) leaders Prof A V Thamarakshan and Shibu Baby John, both ruling party MLAs, were arrested by police for the untoward incidents in the state capital on Saturday. While Shibu was arrested on Saturday night, Thamrakshan was taken into custody on Sunday, for abetting violence and for attacking political rivals and mediapersons. Meanwhile, political leaders and media world have asked the government to take strict action against the erring policemen, who manhandled mediapersons on Saturday night. [Agency]
Race for vacant Rajya Sabha seat from Kerala begins
Sunday, November 28, 2004
With former Kerala Chief Minister A.K. Antony saying he is not keen to contest the vacant Rajya Sabha seat from the state, the race among Congress aspirants has begun. The vacancy arose due to the death of senior Communist Party of India leader V.V. Raghavan last month. The names from the Congress doing the rounds include those of senior leaders like former legislators A.C. Jose, A. Charles, K.P. Unnikrishnan, special invitee to the Congress Working Committee Ramesh Chennithala and United Democratic Front (UDF) convenor P.P. Thankachen. With a majority of the Congress party (62 MLAs) in the ruling United Democratic Front that has 99 MLAs in the 140-member Kerala Assembly, the victory of its candidate is a foregone conclusion. A.K. Antony opted out of the race saying that he is still undecided on his future plans and preferred to be in active state politics. Of the candidates in the fray, A.C. Jose and Ramesh Chennithala are unlikely to move further up in the list because both lost in the May 2004 general election. A. Charles is a three-time former MP but as things stand now the race appears to be between K.P. Unnikrishnan, who has all the right connections with the Congress high command in New Delhi, and P.P. Thankachen, who is in the good books of leaders like K. Karunakaran, Antony and Chief Minister Oommen Chandy. What surprised many was the staking of claim to the seat by State Revenue Minister K.M. Mani, who heads his faction of the Kerala Congress. Mani said that in the past his party had given way for the Congress party and the present seat should go to his party. But UDF convenor Thankachen said that Mani had not raised this issue at the UDF meeting. "This is not an issue that has to be discussed in the UDF. He has already raised it with the chief minister. At the opportune time a decision would be made," said Thankachen. Karunakaran, convalescing in a hospital here following complaints of chest congestion, has still has not been able to open his mind on this issue. But reports indicate that this issue is likely to figure at the executive committee meeting of the Congress party to be summoned shortly, when it would be made known who are all in the final race.
Director Joshi gets in trouble with Producers' Association
Saturday, November 27, 2004
It looks as if the long drawn out battle between AMMA and Film Chamber might surface again, this time with Film Producers' Association's involvement too! When AMMA and KFC were having the clash of their lifetimes, Joshi decided to come up with an alternative named 'Friends of Cinema'. Though members from both the associations were involved in the new organization, they all weren't happy about it. So, they began waiting for a chance to take revenge. As soon as the strike ended, Joshi came up with 'Mambazhakaalam'. The film gave them the reason, albeit it looked very inconsequential. Every time a new film is launched, the important parties involved namely the producer, director and leading heroes have to sign an agreement and send an attested copy of the agreement to the Producers' Association. The film's producer Aroma Mani did send a copy of the agreement, but it didn't have Joshi's signature. The Association had sent the copy back to the director requesting him to sign it. Joshi did and got it attested from a Notary Public and returned the copy to the Association. The association had sent it back again claiming that the signatures didn't match. Joshi signed the papers again and sent it. It was still not convinced that he had signed it and decided to ask him to appear in the office and sign the papers. They claim that they had called him atleast four times and Joshi had refused to come. Now they are getting ready to take penal action against him. This time however only a very few in the association are supporting this action. The Association claims that it as being very just to Joshi because they didn't interfere with the film's release!
I have two films in Hindi -Navya
Saturday, November 27, 2004
Navya Nair is in a fix as all her recent films including her Tamil debut Azhagiya Theeye were flops. Now she is pinning all hopes on Rajasenan’s Immini Nalloral with Jayasurya. The trouble with the actress and her dad is their bad PR which leads them to all sorts of trouble. Recently she was in news for all the wrong reasons and all leading banners avoid her. She had problems with top directors like Bhadran, Kamal and others and her relationship with co-artists are also pretty lukewarm. Navya’s one-time favourite hero Pritviraj is no longer interested in working with her and Dileep also had a miserable experience after Pattanathil Sundaran. So she has turned to Tamil and has just bagged Amrutham an off-beat film directed by Kannan. Navya also has a big mouth as she is going to towns about the offers that are pouring in from Tamil and Bollywood!! She is a talented actress with no glamour and now she says: I have two films in Hindi. One is with director Ramgopal Varma and another with a top banner.
Maambazhakaalam
Saturday, November 27, 2004
Film: "Maambazhakaalam"; Cast: Mohanlal, Sobhana, Harisree Asokan, Sudhish and Innocent; Director: Joshi; Music: M. Jayachandran; Lyrics: Gireesh Puthenchery; Producer: M. Mani. Superstar Mohanlal is today commended as the best natural actor around by his peers and critics and applauded by everyone for his magnetic persona. Veteran director Joshi and young writer T.A. Shahid have tried to cash in on these traits of Mohanlal in "Maambazhakaalam"(Mango Season), but with limited success as Mohanlal the superstar seems to overpower the actor in this film. So, what we have got here is a concoction that can be termed as the "best of Mohanlal" (including his acting opposite Sobhana, as they have been the most remembered pair of recent times). The story is similar to Mohanlal's "Baletten", the debut of writer Shahid, which became a hit last year. The story is about Puramanayil Chandran (Mohanlal), a forty-plus man with a heart of gold, who has made it big by working in the Middle East and brought up his five siblings single-handed. He sacrificed his personal life for his family. The tale unfolds as his family decides to get him married, which he has been avoiding for years. The film follows the pattern of a typical Mohanlal fare - a light-hearted comedy turning into tension-filled drama with action sequences in the second half. The writer has tried to infuse some topical issues, like the difficulties faced by Malayalis working in Gulf countries, but he has failed to bring any freshness to the plot, as every twist and turn in it is predictable. It goes to the credit of the actors that they keep our interest alive in the film, with Mohanlal leading the way. He tries to fill enthusiasm in the proceedings, hiding shortcomings in the screenplay. He is ably supported by Harisree Asokan, Sudhish and Innocent. Talented Sobhana has been given a raw deal. Her character in the film has nothing substantial to it. Her presence is used as an additional USP. Kaviyoor Ponnamma is the typical mother you expect her to be. M. Jayachandran's music and Gireesh Puthenchery's lyrics are not outstanding. Director Joshi, with a reputation for making political and action thrillers, has switched gears by making two back-to-back family dramas: first Dileep's "Runway" and now "Maambazhakaalam". As for writer Shahid, this is his third film with Mohanlal after "Baletten" and "Natturajavu". Both films did good business at the box office. By the looks of it, "Maambazhakaalam" will reap a good harvest at the box office.
Ummini Nalaoruaal
Saturday, November 27, 2004
Ummini Nalaoruaal Jeevan comes out running from the bedroom saying I want to die. What is the use of having a father who always scolds you". Sneha is sitting in front of him with a pen and pad. Jeevan's father comes out with a furious look. Sneha tells him to now be romantic and Jeevan starts romancing with Sneha. This was a rehearsal cum test for Jeevan, a budding actor. Jeevan's talent's is noticed by Sneha an actress who helps him enter films. Jeevan thinks that Sneha loves him but when he learns that Sneha was only a friend he decides to win her love. He takes some extreme steps to win Sneha and this form the story of the film. Rajasenan directs the film and has Jaisurya as Jeevan and Navya as Sneha. Madhu Warrier, Cochin Hanifa, Sidiq, Subbair, Kochu Preman, Salim Kumar, Amalraj are the other artistes. Music is by M Jayachandran. The film is produced under the banner of Tony Sony films.
Sambhu
Saturday, November 27, 2004
Sambhu Sankari Vasydevan is a renowned writer-columnist who uses her pen against the evils in the society. Her son Sambhu hailing from a traditional Brahmin family goes to the city to study in a college. Within no time he becomes the darling of the students. Adiseshan and his aide Parthsarthy are politicians and king makers. The duo's troubles in the campus spread to the outside world and in the process Sambhu loses sight of his own goals. The story is told through the investigation of a TV reporter Mira and photographer Ranji. Geetha plays Sankari, Vijayakumar is Sambhu, Babu Antony is Adiseshan, Riaz Khan is Parthasarthy. Directed by K B Madhu new find Sindhoori plays the female lead. Cinematography by Jibu Jacob and music by Jassie Gift the film is produced by CVS productions.
Kavya changes track!
Saturday, November 27, 2004
Kavya is undoubtedly one of the talented actresses in Malayalam. She is making leaps and bounds as an actress of substance with a lot of films in hand. Now she is doing an off-beat film Annorikkal directed by scriptwriter turned director Sarathchandran Waynad. Says Kavya: I play the role of Ponnu, a village girl who is fighting a fierce battle for survival in a man’s world. She is uneducated and is very rustic in looks. The make-up takes one hour as I have to look dark and ugly for the role. The film is shot in the picturistic Gundalpet on the Kerala-Karnataka border near Mysore. The film also has Kalabhavan Mani as a villainous money-lender, Sunil (4 The People fame) along with Murali, Vijayaraghavan, Mamukoya and Ambika in her comeback role. Annorikkal has music by Kaithapuram Viswam and lyrics are by his brother Kaithapuram.
Makal
Saturday, November 27, 2004
Jayaraj's new film titled Makal will have Suresh Gopi and Shobana in lead roles. Both Suresh Gopi and Shobana are facing the camera after a small hiatus. Shobana was recently seen in Mambazhakalam with Mohanlal. In Jayaraj's film, she plays the role of a mentally challenged woman. At a time when she was wandering in the streets, somebody presented her a gift. The present was seen after nine months in the form of a baby girl. The girl grew up but Killeri (Shobana) was not aware of anything. Meantime, Dr Warrier takes charge in the mental hospital where Killeri was undergoing treatment. After a few days, Warrier knew that medicines and treatment was not what she needed and slowly he brought her to life. The film tells the story of Warrier, Killeri and her daughter Manasi. Baby Rehna plays the role of Manasi. She had also acted as Dilip's daughter in Perumazhakalam Also include Unni Shivpal, C P Rajasekharan, Vavachan, Asif Khan, Vinayakan, Manga Mahesh, Valsala Menon, Shalu Menon, Poornima and many others. Most of the scenes of the film were shot in Kuthiralayam in Kannur. Jayaraj had earlier decided to shoot his film Kaliyattom here but due to some kind of protests he had to change the location. Both Suresh Gopi and Shobana are acting together after a period of eight years. They were last seen in Sindoorarekha. Shobana is excited as her film Mambazhakalam with Mohanlal is doing good business. The recording and pooja ceremony of the film produced by Alex Varghese under the banner of Amlux Films were held at the Kalabhavan Theatre in Thiruvananthapuram. Tourism Minister K C Venugopal lighted the traditional lamp. M J Radhakrishnan handles the camera. Madambu Kunhikuttan pens the screenplay and dialogues for the story of T Rajan Pothuval. Ramesh Narayanan composes music for the songs of Kaithapram.
Mammootty - Kamal team up
Saturday, November 27, 2004
Kamal's new film after Perumazhakalam has Mammootty in the lead role. The film is produced by Howli Pottur (Chicago) under the banner of Dream Productions. Kalavoor Ravikumar pens script for the film. Kamal - Mammooty team had given two hits Mazhayethum Mumpe and Azhagiya Ravanan. Kamal is after a long time working with a Superstar. Usually he prefers to work with lesser known stars or newcomers. The last time Kamal worked with a superstar was Ayal Katha Ezhuthunu with Mohanlal. It was a flop. Kalavoor had teamed with Kamal for Nammal and Manjupola Oru Penkutty.
Mammootty blacklists Shaji Kailas?
Saturday, November 27, 2004
Mammootty blacklists Shaji Kailas? Mammootty and Shaji Kailas have given memorable hits in the past like King andValiyettan, both blockbusters. So when Shaji decided to turn producer, Mammootty gave him dates to make a film titled Brand Bramanandan to be distributed by Swargachitra Appachan. The latest we hear is that this film is shelved as Mammootty has walked out of the project and is now shooting for Shafi directed Thommante Makkal for Lal Creations which would be the superstar’s Vishu release. The rumour is that Shaji and Mamootty have fallen out over a casual comment by the former that the star was responsible as the chairman of Karirali TV for playing down his last film with Mohanlal, Natturajavu in comparison to Mammootty’s Kazhcha. A peeved Mammootty was upset by the director’s remark which was far from the truth. Mammootty has always run Kairali TV as an independent channel and has even allowed programmes which took pot shots at him.
Dileep burns his fingers with 'Kathavasheshan'
Saturday, November 27, 2004
It takes a special kind of talent to be able to balance both art and commercial films successfully. Mammootty knows how to. But, it looks as if Dileep is yet to learn the trick. Mammootty stars in an offbeat film like 'Kaazhcha' and the film grosses more than masala flicks like 'Naturajavu'. Dileep too wanted an award or two. So, he puts his own money and makes 'Kathavasheshan' with TV Chandran. The film is excellent. Performances of the cast are great. But, at the box office, the film crashes, resulting in huge losses to producer Dileep. Within a few days of the film's release, it flopped miserably at all centers across the state. 'He should better stick to what he does best- manipulating younger heroes and playing comic and intellectually challenged roles,'his detractors quip.
Steve Waugh 'surprised' over ICC decision on Ganguly
Saturday, November 27, 2004
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 26 Former Australian cricket captain Steve Waugh today said he was surprised to hear about the ICC decision to lift the two-test ban imposed on Indian skipper, Sourav Ganguly. "I thought they will make an example. The ICC might have good reasons to backtrack after Ganguly was punished," Waugh, who was here as brand ambassador to insurance major AMP Sanmar, told reporters. "It came as a pleasant surprise. Ganguly might also have put up a good defence. Anyway, it is a positive thing for the Indian captain and the team," Waugh said. Waugh, however, said it was the captain's responsibilty to maintain a steady over rate and they should be aware of the penalty awaiting them, in the event of not finishing the match on time. He said there was no proposal before him to coach the Indian team right now. John Wright was doing a fine job, he said. The Test cricket scene was healthy at the momemt around the world, he added. Asked whether Asian players were being singled out while handing down punishment, Waugh said "there is no prejudice in the game." The captain with most number of Test wins said he was prepared to become the Ambassador for Kerala Tourism. "I don't mind," he said. "It is a beautiful place and there are good resorts. I have been here for the last 24 hours and I find the place peaceful and lovable." The activities of a brand ambassador were similar to those of the captain of the Australian team. What was important was to bring out the best, he said. PTI
Photo voters list in Kerala by January 3rd: CEC
Friday, November 26, 2004
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 24 - Chief Election Commissioner T S Krishanamurthy today said Kerala will become the first state in the country to introduce photo voter-lists in January next year. Krishanamurthy, who arrived here today on a private visit in connection with a concert by his wife, told reporters at the airport that the lists would be available in the state by January three. Kerala would be the first state to introduce photo voters list in the country, followed by Pondicherry and Haryana later, he said. Replying to a question on elections to the vacant Rajya Sabha seats in the state, he said a decision on conducting the elections was not taken yet as the Commission was awaiting the reports from the other states concerned. Krishnamoorthy said for public information, the Commission was planning to publish on its website the expenditures of candidates in the elections.
UDF skipped crucial issues: Sudheeran
Friday, November 26, 2004
Pathanamthitta, Nov 26 - The Congress leader V.M. Sudheeran has said that the ruling United Democratic Front (UDF) will have to pay a heavy price for its failure to see the common man's reaction to the Kozhikode ice-cream parlour sex scandal and the alleged role of the Industries Minister, P.K. Kunhalikutty, in it. Inaugurating the annual district meet of the Kerala NGO Association here today, Mr. Sudheeran said Wednesday's UDF liaison committee meeting in Thiruvananthapuram appeared to be nothing short of a `hide-and-seek' game. Many important issues which the political leadership of the UDF ought to have discussed were not taken up. The most talked about joke in recent times is the repeated statements of political executives that `the law will take its own course'. "I will not say that Mr. Kunhalikutty is guilty until the court says so. However, circumstantial evidences show that he is guilty,'' he said. Mr. Sudheeran said a responsible Minister after facing such grave charges and public protests should have kept himself away from the Cabinet till he proved his innocence in a court of law. Mr. Sudheeran said the Kozhikode Vigilance Court had not exonerated Mr. Kunhalikutty in the corruption case associated with the ice-cream parlour sex scandal. The court is for a detailed inquiry into the corruption charges, he said. Mr. Sudheeran alleged that there were attempts to subvert the course of law. This is what the recent statements of the former State Women's Commission chairperson Sugathakumari, the chairperson of the previous Assembly Committee on Welfare of Women and Children Meenakshi Thampan and the report of the former Director General of Prosecution Kallada Sukumaran reveal. Mr. Sudheeran said the Chief Minister, Oommen Chandy, should see to it that the good deeds of his Government were not eclipsed by the general impression that he was shielding a corrupt Minister. --
PM to inaugurate MES Medical College
Friday, November 26, 2004
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 26 - The inauguration of the Medical College set up at Perintalmanna in Malappuram district by the Muslim Educational Society and the ancillary medical institutions will be done by the Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh. The function will be attended by Ministers from the Centre and the State, representatives of other countries and educationists. A meeting of the State office-bearers, standing committee chairman and district presidents of the MES held in Thiruvananthapuram recently also decided to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the organisation in a grand manner in February.
Public contact programmes will help redress grievances
Friday, November 26, 2004
PTI KANNUR: Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy on Tuesday asked political leaders and officials to hold 'public contact programmes' to pave the way for effective implementation of government measures. "During the ongoing public contact programmes initiated in 11 districts of the state, I could gauge the basic issues faced by people in a better way than I could asses such problems during my long span of public life," Chandy said at his 'public contact' programme here. Stating that he was not nursing any illusion that all issues of the people could be resolved by just having public contact programmes, he said most problems could be addressed by interacting with the public. Secretaries of various government departments would visit all 14 districts once in six months from next month and take note of their various problems and to resolve them to the maximum extent possible. Using the latest communication technology, any person can file their complaints in call centres which will be taken note of by departments concerned. Besides accepting complaints, he distributed financial assistance from the chief minister's relief fund to those eligible for the aid.
Files of Shari Nair case found missing
Friday, November 26, 2004
KOTTAYAM: Crucial files relating to Shari S Nair, a young unwed mother who died November 13 alleging sexual exploitation by political bigwigs, were found missing Monday from a case diary submitted by the police in Kerala. Kottayam Chief Judicial Magistrate PD Rajan, while hearing the bail plea of an accused in the case, discovered that files from two private hospitals and the Kottayam Medical College relating to Shari were missing. The 22-year-old died at the Kottayam Medical College following complications after delivery. She had given birth to a baby girl August 15. Shari's father had September 16 approached the Kottayam police and lodged a complaint that his daughter was being sexually abused by political heavyweights. Though police have arrested eight people, several people named by the girl are still to be booked. Postponing the bail plea hearing of the seventh accused in the case, Soman, the magistrate asked the public prosecutor to come back with all the files. Earlier, files pertaining to another sex scandal were found missing from the office of Women's Commission office at Thiruvananthapuram. The victim of the case, a 22-year-old woman, had last month alleged that State Industries Minister P K Kunhalikutty had sexually exploited her thrice eight years ago. Chief Minister Oommen Chandy's government has come under fire for the manner in which his government has handled the two sex scandals.
Encourage Sanskrit study: Iyer
Friday, November 26, 2004
PTI THRISSUR: Eminent jurist, Justice V R Krishna Iyer, on Thursday said to maintain India's cultural heritage it was essential to encourage the study of Sanskirt. Delivering the keynote address on the occasion of the 'P T Kuriakose Master commemorative lecture' at the Rashtriya Sanskrit Sansthan at nearby Puranattukara, Krishna Iyer lauded the contribution made by Kuriakose master towards the development of sanskrit language. Kerala assembly speaker Therambil Ramakrishnan inaugurated the lecture series and the silver jubilee year celebrations of the sansthan.
Karunakaran losing health and supporters
Friday, November 26, 2004
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Congress veteran and former Kerala chief minister Kannoth Karunakaran no longer seems to be making news - except when he visits hospitals. The stock of the 86-year-old leader, has been falling in the last three and a half years. Gone are the days when his home would buzz with top Congress leaders. Today there is hardly anyone prominent in sight near his residence. He seems to make news only when he visits hospitals for checkups. Last week he spent a week at the Escorts Hospital in New Delhi and currently he is hospitalised at the Medical College hospital here for breathing difficulty and a bad chest infection. Karunakaran's fall began after he declared war on his old foe, former chief minister A K Antony. Right from May 2001 when Antony assumed office, Karunakaran had given him sleepless nights. But tables were to turn. Both Karunakaran's children - K Muraleedharan and Padmaja Venugopal - lost in assembly bypolls and Lok Sabha polls respectively, giving a severe jolt to the Congress veteran. Lately, due to his failing health, he has expressed his desire to resign from his Rajya Sabha seat, but on the condition that it be given to his son. Reports from the Medical College indicate that he may be in hospital for another week.
Foreign secretary to visit Kerala
Friday, November 26, 2004
PTI MALAPPURAM: Union Minister of State for External Affairs E Ahmed on Thursday said the Foreign Secretary would visit Kerala soon to have a better understanding of the problems of the Non-Resident Keralites and work out steps to ensure them better service. During his visit, the official would interact with the state government representatives as well as a section of the society so that there would be a better understanding of the specific needs of the state, Ahmed told reporters here. Such an interaction could cover a variety of issues such as passport, consular matters and relations with the Gulf states, Sri Lanka and Indian Ocean littoral states, he said. The UPA Government's approach was that foreign policy could not be divorced from domestic developments as it was aimed at promoting the interests of the people, he said. Greater interaction with states, particularly those having links with other countries due to their geographical peculiarities and historical orientation, was a new initiative adopted by the Government, he added. Earlier, Ahmed inaugurated Malappuram Secondary Switching Directory
UDF skirts Kunhalikutty issue again
Friday, November 26, 2004
Kerala News, THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Downplaying the allegations against Industry Minister P.K.Kunhalikutty once again, the UDF liaison committee which met here on Wednesday decided to stand united behind the League Minister. Meanwhile, the KPCC office-bearers who met earlier in the day decided to convene an executive meeting. The meeting would discuss various issues including the party elections and the ice cream parlour case, said a KPCC office-bearer. The date would be decided later. Briefing newsmen after the meeting, UDF convener P.P.Thankachan said that there were no differences of opinion among the UDF partners over Kunhalikutty issue and that nobody had demanded his resignation. The discussion on the matter was wound up after Kunhalikutty explained his position and Chief Minister Oommen Chandy informed the meeting of the steps taken by the Government to speed up the probe into the cases relating to the sex scandal, Thankachan said. ‘‘Everybody in the UDF agreed that law should be allowed to take its own course,’’ he said.
CBI to investigate Kiliroor sex scandal in Kerala
Friday, November 26, 2004
New Delhi: The CBI would investigate the alleged sexual harassment of a 16-year-old Kerala girl by several influential persons including a Minister of the present Oommen Chandy cabinet. A CBI spokesman said the Centre on Thursday entrusted the investigation of the rape of aspiring actor Sari S Nair of the Kottayam district by several persons with a promise to give her a break in a film or a TV serial. Sari, who died on November 14, had alleged that she was exploited by many VIPs including a Minister of the Congress-led ministry in the state. A native of Kiliroor village, she had given birth to a daughter at Kottayam Medical College three months before her death. Less than a fortnight ago, the Kerala government had sent a letter to the CBI requesting it for a fair and through probe into the mass rape of the girl. The Opposition in the state had alleged that the state police was conducting a shoddy investigation to shield some high-profile officers and a Minister. Sari was allegedly taken to several places on the pretext of giving opportunity to act in a film or a TV serial and raped.
Sabarimala attracts droves of devotees
Sunday, November 21, 2004
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov.20 : Sabarimala, one of Kerala's best known pilgrimage spots, is the centre of attraction these days, as devotees from all over the world are making a beeline for the temple that opened on November 15. The Ayyapas go to the Sabarimala Sri Ayyappan temple and offer prayers to make their wishes fulfilled. During the pilgrimage period and the formal " Vratham " period normally all Ayyappas wear only black dresses. According to Hindu belief, one Ayyappa should take at least 21 days "vratham" for the holy Darshan.The Ayyappas go to Sabarimala with Erumudi Kettu contains Ghee bottled Coconut, rice and coconut. "In the Ayyapapa Temples, it is like a festival during the Malayalam month of Vrishuchikom. During these 41 days, devotees follow abstinance from non-vegetarian food, follow a spiritual way of life and go on a pilgrimage to Sabarimala," said by Perumal Swamy, a devotee. Sabarimala is the best known pilgrimage destination in Kerala, among all the Sashtha temple Sabarimala Sri Dharmasastha is a very famous temple, is situated high up in the Sahyadri Mountains. The famous Sabarimala temple opens on November 15, 2004 and will close on January 20, 2005. The unique feature of the Temple is that it opens to people of all faiths and many non-hindus conduct pilgrimages to this temple.Another significant aspect of the pilgrimage is that all the sections of pilgrims offer prayers to Lord Ayyappa and address each other as Ayyappa. The divine qualities like equality, fraternity, tolerance, humanity etc.. are shining well in the pilgrims.
Dileep's performance in 'Kathavaseshan' praised
Sunday, November 21, 2004
By Indo-Asian News Service Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 21 Dileep's acting in his latest film "Kathavaseshan" was one of Malayalam cinema's best ever performances, ace filmmaker T.V. Chandran has said. "Without doubt, I would rate Dileep's character Gopinathan Menon as one of the best ever in Malayalam films and it is worth an award," Chandran told reporters here Sunday. The film explores the issue of suicide, which has a high incidence rate in Kerala. Dileep plays the role of an engineer who commits suicide after reading about the rape of a former neighbour, a teenaged Muslim girl, in the Gujarat riots. Dileep said he accepted the role as soon as he heard the story from Chandran and also decided to produce the film. "This is a film that all should see. I decided to produce it because Chandran was someone I could easily vibe with. I have done my bit and if an award comes my way, it would certainly be God's gift", he said. The film will be screened at the Alternative Film Festival in New York early next year. Chandran's last film "Padom Onnu Oru Villapam" won the Meera Jasmine award early this year.
Six day acqua show beginsAdd to Clippings
Sunday, November 21, 2004
PTI KOCHI: An International Aqua show, with ornamental fishes from Sri lanka, Dubai and Maldives, began here on Thursday. The six-day exhibition was inaugurated by Kerala assembly speaker, Therambil Ramakrishnan. Fisheries minsiter, Dominic Presentation, who presided, said in Kochi and Kollam ornamental fish breeding centres would be started in a year's time. Rare varieties of fishes including 'clown fish', 'lion fish', 'fighter fish', 'regal angel fish' and 'emperor angel fish' are being exhibited.
Babu claims support of 10 district committeesAdd to Clippings
Sunday, November 21, 2004
PTI KOLLAM: Kerala Labour Minister and RSP-B leader Babu Divakaran on Thursday claimed that he had the backing of ten district committees of the party, which was facing a split following the feud between factions led by him and party General secretary A V Thamarakshan. Addressing reporters here, Divakaran said he was chosen as the party's ministerial nominee in the UDF cabinet by the state committee meeting held at Kochi and he continued to enjoy the support of majority of its members. He said the convention called by his faction on Nov 27 and 28 at Thiruvananthapuram would prove that majority of party workers were with him. Denying Thamarakshan's charge that he was getting support from SNDP general secretary Vellappalli Natesan, Divakaran said he did not have any links with community-based organisations. The tussle between the two factions in the RSP-B, a constituent of the ruling UDF, has intensified of late with Thamarakshan writing to the Chief Minister Oommen Chandy and UDF convener P P Thankachan asking them to remove Divakaran from the cabinet.
Irish firm to set up facility in CSEZ
Sunday, November 21, 2004
The Irish linen fabric manufacturing company, Baird Mcnutt, is all set to establish a vertically integrated facility at the Cochin Special Economic Zone (CSEZ). The move is bound to trigger off new developments in the global textiles business in the post-quota era from January next year. This is the first venture in Asia for the Irish company. The Kochi unit will have the capacity to process six to nine yards of fabric. Linen yarn for the unit will be sourced from Estonia and cotton yarn from within the country. The Kochi facility is expected to go in full swing early next year.
Pact to export vegetables to Dubai
Sunday, November 21, 2004
The Vegetable and Fruit Promotion Council Keralam (VFPCK) has signed agreements with two leading retailers in Dubai for export of fresh vegetables from the State on a daily basis. According to Mr. Ashok Kumar Thekkan, the Chief Executive Officer of the Council, the agreement would enable a steady market for vegetables from Kerala. Thirty tonnes of vegetables would be exported on a weekly basis. The vegetables would be send both by sea and by air. Three tonnes of perishable items will be sent via air while 26 tonnes would be shipped from Kochi. Highly perishable items would be shipped in reefer containers while items such as yams, pineapples, tapioca and sweet potatoes would be sent by air.
Kerafed ready to storm the Gulf market
Sunday, November 21, 2004
The Kerala Kera Karshaka Sahakarana Sanghom (Kerafed) is all geared up to launch a massive advertisement campaign in the Gulf market for its popular brand of coconut cooking oil 'Kera' and hair oil, 'Kera Kesh'. According to the Managing Director of Kerafed, Mr. Ashok Kumar Thekkan, the company had approached the Agriculture and Processed Food Products Exports Development Authority for funds to launch the campaign and to redesign the packages, both of which would incur an expense of around Rs.1.6 million. The company has also entered into ties with a leading retail chain in Dubai and Abu Dhabi for the two brands. Kerafed hopes to sell about 20 tonnes of coconut cooking oil in the Gulf market every month.
DEWS keen on trade ties with Kerala
Sunday, November 21, 2004
The Western Economic Zone of Switzerland has evinced keen interest in establishing trade ties with Kerala. The Managing Director of Development Economic Western Switzerland (DEWS), Mr. Francis Sermet disclosed this at a press conference held in Kochi. The Indian Representative of DEWS, Mr. Ravi Chaudhary also attended the meet. Briefing on the incentives offered by the zone, Mr. Sermet pointed out that the zone is a good pan-European base for Indian entrepreneurs. He remarked that the zone comprised of three cantons that offered ideal low-cost, tax-effective location for setting up companies in the biotech, software and other sectors. The companies setting up manufacturing facilities or contract manufacturing structures get complete tax holiday for 10 years. International trading companies are taxed in the range of 5 to 11 percent. Around 25 Indian companies have been set up in the zone, which provides easy access to the neighbouring markets in France, Germany, Austria, Italy and new European Union Countries. He added that companies in the State dealing with coir, rubber and other products could set up offices in Switzerland. Twenty companies in Kerala have already expressed interest in setting up offices in the zone.
Super Port to come up in Kochi
Sunday, November 21, 2004
As part of the efforts to attract foreign investments and developing the infrastructure facilities in the country, the Centre is considering the plan to set up a super port in Kochi. This was announced by Mr. Vinayak Chatterjee, the Chairman of Infrastructure and Regulatory Council, Confederation of Indian Industries (C.I.I.) at the three-day Investment Round-Table Conference held under the auspices of Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (O.E.C.D.) in New Delhi. The Union Minister for Commerce and Industries, Mr. Kamal Nath, inaugurated the conference. Mr. Chatterjee remarked that the in addition to giving special emphasis to the development of the existing ports, the Centre is also considering the establishment of super ports in the country.
KINFRA ties up with French Chamber of Commerce
Sunday, November 21, 2004
The Kerala Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (KINFRA) has entered into ties with the Havre Chamber of Commerce, France for enabling business investments in the State. The agreement focuses on promoting industrial ventures, exchange of technical knowledge and strengthening the cooperation between the two countries in the sectors of food processing, garment manufacture and biotechnology. The agreement was signed by the Vice- President of the Havre Chamber of Commerce, France, Mr. Eugene Magouarou and the Managing Director of KINFRA, Dr. G. C. Gopalapillai at a function held in Thiruvananthapuram. Mr. M. Harikumar, Kerala Export Promotion Council Member Secretary and Representative of the Chamber of Commerce, Thiruvananthapuram, Mr. M. R. Narayanan took part in the function.
Kochi turns favoured destination for Smart City Project
Sunday, November 21, 2004
With the Dubai Internet City (DIC) team zeroing in on Kochi for its Smart City Project, the city is all set to become a major IT hub in the country. The DIC team has finally gone in favour of the 1000 acres of land near Info Park, Kakkanad, for the Smart City project. The decision was taken by the four-member delegation of Dubai Internet City (DIC) who recently visited Kochi to explore the possibility of setting up an IT Smart city here. The four-member delegation headed by Director of DIC, Mr. Fareed Abdul Rehman comprised the Chief Planning and Business Development Officer, Mr. Deepak Padmanabhan, Architecture and Construction Chief, Mr. Adil Abdullah and Real-Estate Properties and Relations Senior Manager, Mr. Baju George. In the course of their visit, the team held discussions with the Minister for Industries, Mr. P. K. Kunhalikutty, I. T. Secretary, Ms. Aruna Sundararajan, Managing Director of Cochin International Airport, Mr. V. J. Kurien, C.E.O, Info Park, Mr. K. G. Girish Babu, representatives of the Engineering and Construction giant, Larsen & Toubro and officials of KINFRA (Kerala Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation) and the state government regarding the project. Though the team also visited the proposed 500 acres of land near the Cochin International Airport, allotted by the State Government, they finally zeroed in on the 1000 acres of land cleared by Info Park in Kakkanad for the project. According to the Director of DIC, Mr. Fareed Abdul Rehman, Kochi offers an edge over Hyderabad and Chennai owing to its speedy Internet connectivity, the booming Information technology scenario, advanced technological infrastructure and its status as a major tourism hub in the country. The DIC would invest an approximate $ 400 million into the project, to be completed in three phases. For the initial phase of the project, the State Government would hand over 200 acres of land near Info Park to DIC. The project would be expanded to 500 acres in the second phase and to 1000 acres in the last phase. The Smart City would be an extension of the Dubai Internet City and Media City in Dubai and would enable the functioning of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) companies. The self-contained campus would comprise of residential buildings, schools and an entertainment complex besides IT firms. A high-power team from Dubai is expected to visit Kochi before a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is signed for the project. The MoU is expected by December end this year.
Air India to start budget airlines by March 2005
Sunday, November 21, 2004
The timely intervention of the Non-resident Keralites' Affairs Department (NORKA) made the Government of Kerala to impress the Union Government for starting a low budget flight service to destinations in the Gulf. The persistent efforts of Government of Kerala eventually succeeded, with Air India deciding to introduce low budget flight service called 'Express Service' to countries in the Gulf at affordable rates. This would satisfactorily meet the burgeoning demand from passengers bound for Gulf countries from Kerala to a great extent, especially the job aspirants. Air India would launch budget airlines from Kerala to the Gulf countries from March 2005, a month earlier than previously planned. The budget airlines would offer 20 to 25 percent reduction in the existing airfares. The Managing Director of Air India, Mr. V. Thulasidas has said that in the first phase, the services would be operated to countries in the Gulf and East-West Asia from Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Kozhikode. Air India has decided to take on lease fourteen Boeing-737 airplanes for the purpose. Each aircraft would have the capacity to accommodate 180 passengers. In the second phase, the 'Express Service' would be extended to other destinations within the country such as Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Guwahati. The Chief Minister of Kerala, Mr. Oommen Chandy had earlier requested the Air India and the Indian Airlines to introduce temporary increase in flights to Gulf countries. In his fax message to the Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Mr. Praful Patel, he had appealed to the latter to start special flights from Thiruvananthapuram to the Gulf countries. The Chief Minister had also appealed to Air India to start at least 10 more flights from Thiruvananthapuram to Gulf regions mainly for the convenience of thousands of first-time jobseekers heading for the Gulf.
Qatar Airways increase services to the State
Sunday, November 21, 2004
The Qatar Airways has increased the number of weekly flights from Doha to the State in view of the Open Sky Policy introduced by the Union Government. Two flights will be operated everyday, except Friday, from Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi. The services of Qatar Airways to various destinations in the country have been increased to 51.The services of the airline to Kochi have been increased to 13.
Banks revise interest rates
Sunday, November 21, 2004
The South Indian Bank Limited, and the Catholic Syrian Bank Limited have revised their interest rates. The new interest rates of South Indian Bank on dollar denominated deposits are 2.30% for one to two years, 2.71% for two to three years and 3.03% for three years. The corresponding rates for pound sterling is 4.77, 4.71 and 4.74%. Deposits in Euro would receive 2.08, 2.34 and 2.60 % interest. The new rates of interest on NRE deposits are 3.05% for one to two years, 3.50% for two to three years and 3.80% for three years. The revised the rate of interest of the Catholic Syrian Bank on domestic term deposits for 7 to 10 years is 6.50%. The interest rates for other slabs are as follows: 4.25% for 15 to 45 days, 5% for 46 to 179 days, 5.5% for 180 days to one year, 6% for one to seven years. The bank offers an additional interest of 0.25% on a single term deposit of Rs. 50 lakhs and above for 91 days to 179 days, and one to five years. Senior citizens would receive an additional 0.50% as interest under the Acharya Deposit Scheme. The revised interest rates of the South Indian Bank on NRE term deposits are: 3.10% for one to two years, 3.50% for two to three years, 3.80% for three to 10 years.
Global Kerala Foundation takes up charity projects
Sunday, November 21, 2004
The Global Kerala Foundation, the social and cultural organization of Non-Resident Keralites (NRKs), has taken up several charity projects for promoting the development and socio-economic welfare of their home state. The projects focus on improving the educational facilities for children from the lower strata of society, providing assistance to children affected with HIV/AIDS and developing the civic and medical amenities in various parts of the State. According to Mr. K.V. Prakash, the General Secretary of the U.A.E. Country Committee of the Foundation, the Higher Secondary School in Venganoor near Thiruvananthapuram is the first beneficiary of the organization's welfare projects. The first phase of the project named "My Village, My Dream", was aimed at the provision of clean drinking water facility to the school. The project has been implemented by the Global Kerala Foundation with the support of the Roots-NRK Development Initiative, the field agency of the Non-Resident Keralites' Affairs (NORKA) Department. The "Better School: Better Citizens of the Future" programme of the Global Kerala Foundation, focuses on improving the facilities in Kerala's under-equipped schools. Around 100 government schools in the State would be sponsored by the organization under the project. The project would be initially carried out in three schools at Nattika and one each in Kozhikode and Thiruvananthapuram districts in the current academic year. Another major welfare programme named 'Mother's Care', seeks to provide monetary assistance to the HIV/AIDS affected children in Kerala. The HIV infected children would be granted Rs. 1,000 per month as part of the project. AIDS awareness campaigns to prevent discriminatory policies against HIV affected children in educational institutions would be also taken up at the Gram Panchayat level at Kottiyoor and Kelakam. Establishment of a blood bank, provision of ambulances, construction of public toilets and a horde of other projects are on the anvil.
SBT revises interest rates on FCNR deposits
Sunday, November 21, 2004
The State Bank of Travancore (SBT) has revised the interest rates for FCNR term deposits in US dollar, Pound Sterling and Euro for various periods from one to three years with effect from November 1. The revised rate for U.S. dollar deposits of one year to less than two years is 2.30%, for two years to less than three years 2.70% and for three years, 3.02%. The rates for Pound Sterling deposits for the above mentioned periods are 4.77%, 4.71% and 4.74% respectively. The rates for deposits in Euro are 2.06%, 2.33% and 2.58% respectively. The interest rates for RFC deposits have also been revised to 2.30%, 2.70% and 3.02% respectively for the corresponding periods. The interest rate for a period of six months to less than one year remains at one percent.
Air Arabia starts booking from Kerala
Sunday, November 21, 2004
The Air Arabia has started early booking from Kerala, prior to the launch of its direct flight services in the Kerala-Gulf sector. Until then, the flight services to Sharjah from Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Kozhikode would be operated via Colombo. Royal Indian Airlines is the airline's booking agent in Kerala. The Chairman of the Royal Group, Mr. Tissen Thachankerry and the officials of Air Arabia have entered into an agreement in this regard. The Royal Group is Air Sahara's G.S.A. and Airport Handling Agent in Kerala. Presently, Air Arabia operates its services to 15 countries including the Middle East and North Africa.
Kuwait: 40-day amnesty period for illegal expatriates
Sunday, November 21, 2004
Kuwait: Forty-day amnesty period for illegal expatriates The amnesty period granted by Kuwaiti Government to illegal foreign expatriates in the country has been extended to 40 days. The expatriates, who leave the country or produce the necessary documents within this time period, would be exempted from paying fine and undergoing trials in the law courts. They would be also allowed to return to the country once again with legal work permits.
Renewal of visiting visas: Emergency counters set up at Gulf airports
Sunday, November 21, 2004
Emergency counters have been set up by the Naturalization and Residency Departments in Dubai and Sharjah for the purpose of renewal of visiting visas. The counter at Dubai would receive applications for renewal or cancellation of visiting visas. It will remain open daily from 9 a.m. to noon. The counter at airports would remain open 24 hours. No applications for new visas would be accepted.
Italian fashion set to take Kochi by sway
Sunday, November 21, 2004
Kochi seems to be well on its way to take the centrestage among country's leading fashion hubs. A four-member Italian team led by Mr. Aldo Portingnon, the Chairman of Liberti group of companies, recently visited Kochi in relation with the proposal to set up a Rs. 2000 million fashion village here. The State Government and the Italian delegation have entered into an agreement on the project. The fashion village, a joint project of the Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSIDC) and Kerala Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (KINFRA), would comprise 30 Italian garment units, a sales outlet and a luxury hotel. The Italian delegation along with the Managing Director of KSIDC, Mr. P. H. Kurian, had earlier held talks with the Union Textile Minister, Mr. Shanker Singh Vaghela and officials of the ministry on the matter. The team also visited the 125-acre land near Kakkanad identified by KINFRA for the project. The Union Minister has assured to take up the project under the Apparel Export Promotion Scheme of the Centre. According to Mr. Kurian, the project, which is the first of its kind in the country, would be a vehicle for tourism promotion in the State. The architecture of the village would be a unique one and the work on the project is expected to begin in three months. In addition to the fashion village, a textile mill would also be set up with the support of Italian companies. The project hopes to generate employment for around 25,000 people.
Kerala struggling against HP
Thursday, November 18, 2004
Palakkad, Kerala, Nov 17 Kerala were struggling at 165 for seven in reply to mammoth 465 by Himachal Pradesh on the second day of the Ranji Trophy Plate division here today. Kerala lost wickets at regular intervals. Resuming at 321 for two, Himachal Pradesh lost the remaining eight wickets for addition of 144 runs with medium pacer Sreesanth claiming five wickets for 103, including a hattrick. For Himachal Sangram Singh made 206 (550m, 404b, 24x4, 1x6) Veteran leg spinner Ananthapadmanabhan crossed a major milestone and became the first Kerala bowler to claim 300 wickets in Ranji Trophy. The leg spinner, who has been playing for Kerala from 1988-89 season, reached the personal mark when Virender Sharma was taken by Tinu Yohanan for 34. Brief scores: Himachal Pradesh 465 (Sangram Singh 206, Manvinder Bisla 134, Virender Sharma 34, Sreesanth 5-103) vs Kerala 165 for seven.
'Mango Season' for music lovers in Kerala
Thursday, November 18, 2004
Kochi, Nov 17 : It is a season of delight for music-lovers in Kerala, with the Mohanlal-starrer "Maambazhakaalam" -- literally meaning mango season -- topping the music charts. The following are the top five Malayalam film songs: 1. "Mambazhakkalam" - Film: "Mambazhakkalam"; Music: M. Jayachandran; Lyrics: Gireesh Puthenchery; Singer: M.G. Sreekumar. This song is shot in a popular amusement park in Kochi. It shows Mohanlal and family having a blast and the audience also joins them. 2. "Meharuba" - Film: "Perumazhakalam"; Music: M. Jayachandran; Lyrics: Rafique Ahmad; Singers: Afsal and Jyotsna. This song is picturised with Dileep and Meera Jasmine and has a traditional Muslim feel to it that is alluring to the listener. 3. "Kannu nattu" - Film: "Kathavaseshan"; Music: M. Jayachandran; Lyrics: Gireesh Puthenchery; Singers: Jayachandran and Vidyadharan Master. This song has an old-world charm. 4. "Kalla kalla" - Film: "Youth Festival"; Music: M. Jayachandran; Lyrics: Shibu Chakravarthy; Singers: Rajesh Vijay and Jyotsna. This song picturised with Abey and Minakshi has found favour with the youth due to its trendy music. 5. "Dappu, dappu Janaki" - Film: "Kazhcha"; Music: Mohan Sithara; Lyrics: Kaithapram; Singers: Mobin, Vishnu and Priya R. Pai. This song in the rain refuses to fade away from public memory.
Kerala to hold tourism road show in London
Thursday, November 18, 2004
Kerala to hold tourism road show in London: [Kerala, India]: Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 17 : The Kerala government is getting set for a road show in London next year to attract more tourists with the help of the renowned publication Conde Nast Traveller. State Tourism Minister K.C. Venugopal was in the British capital last week to participate in the World Travel Mart and met Conde Nast Traveller editors. "They agreed to promote Kerala through their publication free of cost," Venugopal told. Currently, Kerala tourism is showcased in the India pavilion that does not have the desired impact. The road show next year should bring more positive results, the minister said. Kerala is gearing up for its peak tourist season and is expecting a record number of visitors, helped by the spill-over of millions of pilgrims expected to gather in nearby Goa for the exposition of the remains of 16th century missionary Francis Xavier later this month.
Vijey Yesudas
Thursday, November 18, 2004
As a singer, I faced pressure at the beginning of my career because of my father's reputation in the field of music especially in the Malayalam industry, says Vijey Yesudas, son of famous playback and Carnatic singer K J Yesudas. Vijey has sung over 60 songs in Malayalam, Tamil and Telugu. This year for the first time, he entered Bollywood music field by singing a song for the film Phir Milenge. He has also rendered many numbers in hit-films like Friends, Jeyam and Kaadhal Kondein which made him a force to reckon with. Vijey has also brought out his first solo Malayalam and Tamil devotional album for the Sabarimala season. The album titled Saranguthi was brought out by 'Amplify More' of Yesudas Media Private Limited. It was released yesterday in a grand function in Chennai. This Chennai lad, who has spent most of his time abroad, in an exclusive interview with News Today, shares his experience about his singing career and future plans. Excerpts from the interview: Q: How was your feeling while singing for maestro Ilayaraja? A: It was great to sing for the genius. Vanam Perisu Than in Friends was my first song in Tamil. My first experience singing for him was helped by stalwarts S P Balasubramanian and Arun Mozhi who supported me a lot and their encouragement was extraordinary and I can never forget it. So far, I have sung 15-20 songs for Ilayaraja in Tamil and Malayalam. I have been in the industry for four years and each song provided me a new experience. Q: How supportive were your parents? A: They were my first critics. My father is a singer, co-artiste and my best friend. He knows a lot about music and I learn a lot from him. I believe in confidence and talent. If you have that, the sky is the limit. I am not a beginner nor am I a well-known singer in the industry, but I know for sure that I could carve a niche for myself. Q: Do you have knowledge of Carnatic music? A: I have learnt classical and Hindustani music from my father. At the moment, I am learning Carnatic music under Sri Ramamurthy Rao who has been teaching almost all topmost artistes in the music industry. I feel privileged to learn from him. Q: Your voice sounds similar to your father's, is it not so? A: That is not so in all songs. Some people in the Malayalam music industry expect me to sing like my father. In Tamil and Telugu industry, people ask me to sing differently for the sake of originality. Q: About your experience in Tollywood? A: I can speak Tamil and Malayalam but not Telugu, but I understand the meaning. I have sung a few songs in Telugu and luckily I was not criticised. How you sink with the tune is more important than the words. That is what I feel. Q: Your future plans? A: I have sung with Sujatha, a collection of romantic songs in Malayalam for an album called Swapnabrindavan. The album, which would be released soon, talks about the different culture followed during weddings in Kerala. I do not want to be typecast as a devotional or a film singer. If you sing for a film, the chances of the number becoming a hit depends on the film, music director and the actor. So, I want to establish my identity through albums and I would bring out one next year. If I plan to do a remix, I would do it from my own songs and not from others. I have sung for a few films which are yet to be released. K GEETHA
Parents, beware of Film and TV people
Monday, November 15, 2004
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: News items featuring the miseries and pathetic stories of girls who tried to make it big in the world of glamour has been going around for the last four decades. When Kodambakkam, a Chennai suburb, was the headquarters of the Malayalam film industry, a number of starry eyed girls used to entrain for Madras with hopes and dreams. Many of them were carried away by the sweet talks of the agents or brokers who posed as film directors and producers. In most of the cases the girls end up in brothels in and around Vadaplani, yet another Chennai suburb. After a couple of years of ‘service’ in these brothels, these girls were thrown out to the streets to eke out a living by begging. The hoodlums employed by the proprietors of the brothels silence those who were a bit bold. Dead bodies of unknown girls were a regular feature along the railway tracks in the city of Chennai. Though the news papers and magazines (there were’nt many during those days) regularly featured these incidents, it has not made any difference. The flow of young girls to Kodambakkam continue even now, not only from Kerala but from Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. Many films warning the teenaged girls that all that glitters is not gold have been produced. The pursuit to make it to the top in the world of glamour and fashion continues even in this age of internet. A number of novels and stories have been published in Malayalam itself based on real life incidents. It is quite saddening to note that our people, especially the girls, fail to understand the dangers lurking in the path to stardom. Of late, it is the TV serials and modelling which have become handy to the touts. People like Latha Nair can take people to any make believe world through their sweet talks. The fee for teenaged girls in flesh markets run to millions. Imagine the amount of money Latha and her cohorts might have made by selling Shari! Parents and their wards should keep off these touts. Please do not get carried away by the offers made by people who approach you with sweet talks. There were reports in news papers that even middle-aged housewives fall prey to the traps laid by these conmen. Remember, Shari was cheated by Latha Nair with the help of the girl’s own aunty. Latha Nair may not be the original culprit. There are people in high places for whom Latha might have been operating as a ‘benami’. This is a big racket. The links are all over the state , moving stealthily to locate good girls. Please be careful of them. Eternal vigilance is the only means to save our children. And Parents, please tell your children that the path to stardom and filmdom is a minefield. Let’s pray that there will not be any more Sharis hereafter. Kumar Chellappan
International rower Sobhini commits suicide
Monday, November 15, 2004
ALAPPUZHA:International rower and former national champion Sobhini committed suicide, due to a financial crisis. According to her family sources here today, the 21-year-old rower was found to have consumed poison on Saturday night at her residence at Chempumpuram in the district. Though she was rushed to the hospital, she died at the Medical College Hospital here yesterday. A winner of at least 30 medals at the national level and fourth-placed in the last Asian Games, Sobhini had been undergoing treatment for the past five months for a back-bone related problem. Her poor family had a spent huge amount for the treatment, even by pledging their land, and was reportedly in a financial crisis. Daughter of Rajan Vaniyapurackal, a farm labourer, Sobhini had been selected for the national open championship to be held in February next year. Starting as a rower in 1997, she had won a medal at the Asian Rowing championship in 2001 also.
MLAs to act in tele-film
Monday, November 15, 2004
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A comedy tele-film with MLAs donning the grease paint to enact the leading roles, is set to start production soon. Binoo Darshan, director of the film said here that the one-hour film,"Kochunniyoude Swapnam",would be the first tele-film ever made in the country with the representatives of people acting in leading roles. "Though leading actors have done the roles of MLAs in many films and tele-serials, this will be the first tele-film in which MLA give life to charactors", said Tomy Cherukat, one of the prdoucers of the film. "We have been walking behind the political leaders for the past nine months to get a postive reply from them. We have approached as many as 90 MLAs for this purpose and finally we succeeded in getting the consent of 16 MLAs including two women," Binoo, who has also writen the story, said. Eight MLAs, including former water resources minister TM Jaccob, Chandrasekharan Nair, K K Shaju, Pirappancode Murali, Shaju Paul, Stephen George, VJ Paulose and Johny Nellore, had already signed the callsheet and the first schedule of the film would begin on November 22. ''Elizabath Mamman Mathew and Meledath Sarala Devi, the two female leaders, have also agreed to cooperate with us, even though they had raised some doubts on the serial generating controversies,'' Binoo said. The story revolves around 'Yamadeva' engaging Kochunni to take the census of Kerala and the subsequent developments that Kcochunni faces. Shaju Paul handles the role of Kochunni, Pirappancode Murali will appear as 'Yamaraja' and TM Jaccob handles the role of a priest.
Blast at Vatakara: two injured
Monday, November 15, 2004
VATAKARA: A blast was reported from Vatakara at 05 30 hrs on Monday morning. Two persons were injured in the blast. Names of the injured have been given as Yusuf and Mujeeb. Both of them have been admitted to a nearby hospital. Police have recovered the sim card of a mobile phone from the site. Vatakara Circle Inspector Sadanandan told Asianet News that the blast could have occurred from a bomb which was being taken in a jeep. He denied reports of death due to the blast.
Kanchi Mutt raided
Monday, November 15, 2004
Kanchi Mutt raided CHENNAI: The Kanchi Kamakotipeeta Mutt,the head quarters of Jayendra Saraswathi, was raided on Monday by the Special Investigation Team of the Tamil Nadu Police probing the murder of Shankara Raman. However police refused to divulge anything about the raid. Sources in Police said that many valuable document were seized by the SIT. The house and office of a close confident of the Pontiff was also raided by the Police. The SIT is in the look out for Appu, the man alleged to be the kingpin behind the murder of Sankara Raman. Meanwhile the TN Police moved the Kancheepuram court for getting Jayendra Saraswathi into their custody. But any directive on this plea would be possible only after Wednesday when the Seer’s plea for bail come for the consideration in Madras High Court. The junior pontiff Vijayendra Saraswathi has written to the Union Home Ministry demanding a CBI probe into the entire episode. The VHP has called for a protest march in Chennai on Monday. VHP leader Dr Praveen Togadia is expected top address the meeting. Asianet News
NDF activist hurt in explosion
Monday, November 15, 2004
Kerala News, Kozhikode: A suspected activist of the National Democratic Front, a Kerala-based Muslim outfit, was seriously injured in an explosion at Chemmarathur near Vadagara in the district early today. Police said Vannanamkandi Yousuf, 34, sustained serious arm injuries while preparing a bomb in front of his house early morning. He was admitted to a private hospital here. Efforts were on to arrest two of his accomplices, who amassed explosive materials in the area, police said. However, at the hospital, Yousuf said he was ''just trying'' to light crackers when the explosion occurred.
Kiliroor sex scandal victim was killed: VS
Monday, November 15, 2004
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, KERALA: Opposition leader V S Achuthanandan at a press meet today alleged that the Kiliroor sex scandal victim Shaari Nair was actually killed. The VIPs who sexually abused her should be charged for murder. The case was first given to an officer who himself was involved in three sexual harassment cases. But later the case was handed over to the DIG by the intervention of the court. Also, the expert panel of doctors appointed by the government has a doctor who is an accused in the death of a medical student at Alappuzha, said Achuthanandan. The treatment given to her is also doubtful. The team probing the case has so far not yet received the victim's mobile phone as well as the diary of the main accused Latha Nair. The phone which received an amount of Rs 49,000 as bill was later taken by Latha Nair. VS also stated that the police have so far not yet questioned Latha Nair properly and this proves that the team is trying to safeguard the real culprits.
Nurse dies under suspicious circumstances
Monday, November 15, 2004
Kerala News, NEW DELHI: A Keralite nurse died at the Apollo Hospital in New Delhi under suspicious circumstances. The dead has been identified as Sandhya, a native of Thodupuzha. She was undergoing treatment at the hospital for fever. The death happened as the hospital authorities refused better treatment for her.
Kerala action plan for medical colleges
Monday, November 15, 2004
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The State Government proposes to formulate and implement an action plan for the comprehensive development of medical colleges and the Sri Avittam Thirunal Children's Hospital, according to the Health Minister, Mr. K. K. Ramachandran Master. An official quoted the Minister as saying that efforts are on way to groom these as "model" institutions. Financial assistance from institutions such as Hudco is also being actively sought. Talks in this connection have reached final stages. Directives have been issued in order that activities of the trauma care unit at the Thiruvananthapuram Medical College are revamped, the Minister said. Kerala action plan for medical colleges Our BureauTHIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The State Government proposes to formulate and implement an action plan for the comprehensive development of medical colleges and the Sri Avittam Thirunal Children's Hospital, according to the Health Minister, Mr. K. K. Ramachandran Master. An official quoted the Minister as saying that efforts are on way to groom these as "model" institutions. Financial assistance from institutions such as Hudco is also being actively sought. Talks in this connection have reached final stages. Directives have been issued in order that activities of the trauma care unit at the Thiruvananthapuram Medical College are revamped, the Minister said.
Hartal observed in Kerala against Shankaracharya's arrest
Monday, November 15, 2004
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 15 Normal life was paralysed in Kerala today as a state-wide dawn-to-dusk 'hartal' called by the Hindu Aikya Vedi, to protest against the arrest of Kanchi Kamakoti Shankaracharya Jayendra Saraswati, began this morning. No major untoward incidents were reported so far with the 'hartal' largely peaceful, police here said. Some incidents of stone-throwing were reported from Thrissur and Malappuram districts but the situation was immediately brought under control, police said. In the capital, police detained over 100 activists of the Hindu Aikya Vedi, the umbrella group of Hindu organisations in the state, for trying to block traffic at different places, including outside the state Secretariat. The local BJP unit had also extended support to the 'hartal'. The activists, shouting slogans in support of the Shankaracharya and against the Tamil Nadu government, had been detained at the A R police camp. Tight security arrangements had been made with city Police Commissioner Balaram Kumar Upadhyaya warning of strict action against anyone taking out demonstrations on the MG Road leading to the Secretariat. Normal life all over the state was hit as business establishments were closed and public transport remained off the roads. The number of private vehicles on the roads was also markedly less. While most schools had declared a holiday, the Kerala and Calicut Universities postponed all examinations scheduled for the day. With public transport not available and people hesitant to take out private vehicles for fear of disturbances, there was a drop in attendance in government and private offices. While some essential supplies, including hospitals, medical stores, newspaper and milk supplies and movement of Sabarimala pilgrims, were exempted from the 'hartal' call, all other business establishments and shops were closed in Thiruvananthapuram and other major cities. Reports received here said the 'hartal' was total in Kozhikode, Kannur, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Kollam and other districts also.
What happened to Prithviraj?:
Saturday, November 13, 2004
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 11 : Why is Prithviraj, who has done several lead roles in Malayalam, doing a minor negative role in a Tamil film? Prithviraj - son of late actor Sukumaran and actress Mallika - was on a vacation from his engineering course in Australia when filmmaker Renjith offered him the role of Manu in "Nandanam". His role in "Nandanam" was similar to what he was in real life and his performance was received well. Offers poured in and he was hailed as the next best thing that had happened to Malayalam cinema after Mohanlal and Mammootty. He was also described as the next super star. Even though most of his films did not do well at the box office, he became a craze in campuses where students had already started looking at Mohanlal and Mammootty as 'uncles'. Four years down the lane, things are not working for Prthviraj the way it was expected. The young star does not have a single Malayalam film on hand except Vinayan's new film. What went against him seems to be his defiance of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes' (AMMA) decision to boycott producers when the relations between producers and artistes were strained. Prithviraj had shot a Vinayan film, "Satyam". Senior artistes seem to have construed this as arrogance. Whether there was a move to isolate him professionally or not is unclear, but offers dried off for him. He was replaced by other actors in four important films. One film he sorely lost was Kamal's "Perumazhakkalam" that has two heroines and two heroes. Meera Jasmine and Kavya Madhavan portray two important female roles. When Kamal booked Dileep, Prthiviraj, who had already blocked his dates for the film, backed out of the project thinking the role had gone to Dileep. But Kamal maintains that Dileep was booked for a role meant for him not Prithviraj's. The role eventually went to Vineet. The result: he lost a good role in a good director's film. Then, he was supposed to act in Amrutham directed by Sibi Malayil and Sabu Cyril's first directorial venture to be produced by 'Maniyanpilla' Raju. Not any more. He was also expected to do a major role in Priyanandan's "Athu Mandaara Poovalla". Priyanandan is a director who had won several awards for his debut film, "Neythukaran".
Meera’s compromise deal with her sisters!
Saturday, November 13, 2004
Meera Jasmine has kissed and made up with her sisters Jenny and Jebby. Thanks to the intervention of her high school teacher Sudha Mohan, Meera and her family lawyer Mathew P.Thomas representing her sisters sat across a table and settled the issues and came to a compromise. As per the compromise package, Meera’s flat and palatial bungalow near Kochi, 20 cents of land in Aluva, a Tata Safari SUV and an Opel Corsa car will be given back to her with the original documents. As soon as Meera gets the documents of her properties in her hand she will withdraw the case against her sisters who have taken anticipatory bail fearing arrest. So what happens to Meera’s personal life that has not been made clear? Will she continue to live with her Lohi ‘uncle’?
Four CPI(M) men given death sentence in Kerala
Saturday, November 13, 2004
Kannur (Kerala): A court in Thalassery on Friday awarded death sentence to four CPI-M activists for murdering a BJP leader in Kannur district in 1996. The Thalassery Principal District Sessions Court Judge Thomas P Joseph handed down the sentence to the activists for murdering BJP district secretary Pannyannoor Chandran while he was returning home on a motorcycle on May 25, 1996. The court sentenced the activists to two years rigorous imprisonment under IPC section 147 (rioting), three years RI under section 148 (rioting armed with deadly weapons), one months RI under section 341 (wrongful restraint) and death sentence under IPC section 302 (murder). All the sentences would run concurrently, the court said. The capital punishment would be executed in concurrence with the high court order, the court said. The second accused, T Pavithran, who went to a gulf country in search of job after he was released on bail, will be tried separately after he returns home, the court said adding a non-bailable arrest warrant had been issued against him. The court on Wednesday last had found A Sukumaran, M Surendran, K Purushothaman and T P Preman, guilty of the murder and reserved its final verdict for Friday. Elaborate security arrangements had been made at the court premises where entry to the public was restricted in view of the verdict being delivered.
US help promised for nurses' school in Kerala:
Saturday, November 13, 2004
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 13 : A US body has promised help to a school to be set up in Kerala to train nurses. The Philadelphia-based Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) gave the assurance to Chief Minister Oommen Chandy Friday. "Roots-Norka, an autonomous body of the state government, is making arrangements to set up a nursing training school," former NRK minister and chairman of Roots-Norka M.M. Hassan told. A CGFNS delegation led by chief executive Barbara Nicholas called on Chandy and thanked him for the cooperation extended to them for conducting a CGFNS examination Thursday at Kochi after a year. "They have agreed that instead of holding one examination a year,, from now these would be held every March, July, September and November at Kochi," a CGFNS official said. The other centres where the examinations would take place are New Delhi and Bangalore.
BMW to decide if it wants Kerala
Wednesday, November 10, 2004
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 4 : Auto giant BMW will decide this month if it should set shop in Kerala. "We have done all what we can (to satisfy their demands) and are confident (Kerala will bag the project)", P.H. Kurian, managing director of the Kerala State Industrial Development Corp, told. The Kerala government also hopes that the Dubai Internet City will open a similar facility in the port city of Kochi. Chief Minister Oommen Chandy is in New Delhi to invite Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to lay the foundation stone for a much-delayed international container terminal that could change the face of the Kochi port. Another project the central government is expected to clear is the LNG Plant at Kochi. In the IT sector, there is good news. On Wednesday, Chandy assured Infosys chief N.R. Narayana Murthy in Bangalore that Infosys would be given 50 acres of land in Kerala by Nov 15. Among the other IT majors expected to pick Kerala to set up centres is Wipro, which has asked for a 50-acre plot.
Women's group threatens siege of 'tainted' Kerala minister:
Wednesday, November 10, 2004
[Kerala, India]: Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 9 : A women's group Tuesday threatened to lay a siege on Kerala Industries Minister P.K. Kunhalikutty, accused of having sexually abused a minor in 1996, seeking his resignation. "From Nov 12 our workers would lay a siege making life difficult for Kunhalikutty to function as a minister. His continuing as a minister is a shame to literate Kerala," P.K. Sreemathi, leader of Sthree Aikyavedi, a women's outfit, told reporters here. Sreemathi is a senior leader and legislator of the opposition Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M). A 22-year-old woman had accused Kunhalikutty of sexually abusing her when she was 14 years old. The youth wing of the Congress also came out strongly against the minister of the Indian Union Muslim League, which is a senior partner in the Congress-led ruling United Democratic Front. "It is better that the minister resigns because he is a shame on the people in Kerala. We are soon going to approach the high court for reopening the case," said K. Jayan, Youth Congress Kozhikode district president. The two-day CPI-M state committee meeting that concluded Tuesday too favours resignation by the minister. What irked many was the minister's recent statement that at his popularity as a leader had gone up after the alleged victim's disclosures. Communist Party of India secretary Veliyam Bharghavan said his party would intensify its stir demanding the minister's resignation. Several powerful social organisations like the Nair Service Society and the Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam want the issue addressed soon.
First solar powered phone exchange set up in Kerala
Wednesday, November 10, 2004
Pathanamthitta, Nov 9 A 250-line capacity solar-powered telephone exchange, the first of its kind in Kerala, was commissioned at Nilakkal, the main base camp of Sabarimala, by Francis George, MP, today. The setting up of the solar-powered exchange would be a great boon to the Sabarimala pilgrims in the absence of power supply at Nilakkal. During the Mandalam-Makaravilakku season, starting on November 16, the mobile tower at Nilakkal would also be activated by means of a generator.
Perumazhakalam
Tuesday, November 9, 2004
A dream song sequence of Kamal's Perumazhakalam with Dilip and Meera Jasmine was recently picturised at the Jaya Auditorium in Kozhikode. The function was a mehandi ceremony organised by the bride's parents. Raziya the Muslim bride played by Meera Jasmine dressed in white and decked up with gold was engaged in a dance with her friends. The groom Akbar (Dilip) is playing the harmonium while Raziya is dancing. Meera Jasmine's first film was Soothradharan with Dilip. After winning the award for the best actress, she is playing a strong character in this film. Director Kamal said, "Dilip came forward and showed his willingness to do this guest role." The reason said is two of his close associates, director Kamal and Salim Padiyath are working in this project. Salim was with Dilip when the latter worked as an assistant to director Kamal. Not only that the film is produced by Salim. When contacted Salim said, "I wanted to do a film with Dilip but due to some technical reasons the project was shelved and this film is a woman oriented one." Akbar had to leave his wife soon after the wedding. Raziya who has a two year old baby is eagerly waiting for her husband's arrival. The song shot was a honeymoon dream song. The film revolves around a Muslim girl's friendship with a Hindu girl (Kavya Madhavan). Dilip was here for four days to shoot some scenes. He is at present busy shooting for Rasikan. Other casts include Vineeth, Biju Menon, Salim Kumar, Babu Namboodiri, Mala, Mamookoya, Valsala Menon and many others. Songs of Kaithapuram were tuned by M Jayachandran. The film produced under the banner of Rasikar Films will be brought to the theatres by Valiyaveetil Release.
Greetings
Tuesday, November 9, 2004
Cast: Jayasurya, Kavya Madhavan Director: Shajun Kariyal Jayasurya and Kavya are back in Greetings directed by Shajun Kariyal. Geetha, the yesteryear actress makes a comeback as Kasturi, a criminal lawyer in the film. The film reminds us some of the earlier comedy films like Kilukkam, Ishtam etc. The film is about the special relationship between a father and a son and how it changes with the arrival of a woman in their lives. For Gopan (Jayasurya) his father Aravindakshan (Innocent) has always been his best friend. They never had any secrets between them. And their neighbors are an advocate couple (Siddique and Geetha) who are living separately. The couples have a son (Abbas) who is away in Delhi and has promised never to come back till his parents live together. All hell breaks loose with the arrival of Sheethal (Kavya), a pretty young girl from Delhi. She has her own reasons for coming to the state. Sheethal is a modern girl and the reason for her return to Kerala is what the film revolves around. Mani Shornur, the script writer is desperate to dish out a palatable story but ends up dragging the film. One day Gopan meets Sheetal (Kavya) who is put up in his own house as a paying guest by his father. After a love-hate relationship they fall in love and now their mission is to unite the warring couple. The rest of the story is how they go about it in a comic way. Post interval the audience is bound to fall into deep slumber as the narration is slow and dreary. Everything is predictable even the dialogues. Jayasurya and Kavya have a ball and are watchable. Salim Kumar, Innocent and Siddique are good. The music of Raveendran is okay but due to a lack of a basic story line the whole affair falls flat.
Kazhcha
Tuesday, November 9, 2004
Cast: Mammootty, Padmapriya Director: Blessy Debutant Blessy's Kazhcha is making waves, albeit an initial lull, in the theatres all over the state. The director said the film is an offering to the lovers of Malayalam cinema and he is overwhelmed by the response that his work has been receiving from all sections of society. Debutant Blessy's Kazhcha is about a Gujarati Kutch boy, Pavan, a victim of the tragic earthquake that took place in Gujarat, 2001. Separated from his family, the boy finds himself among the street children of the state. Madhavan (Mammootty), a film operator, becomes Pavan's saviour. Pavan starts hanging around Madhavan, though Madhavan does not understand much of what the boy says. Madhavan brings the boy homes and his wife, Lakshmi (Padmapriya), daughter and parents grow fond of Pavan in no time. He becomes a hero when he saves Madhavan's daughter from drowning. But his publicity does him no good as he finds himself caught in a legal imbroglio culminating in a sad but realistic end. The film also has Manoj K Jayan, Innocent, Augustine and Venu Nagavally. Kaithapram and Mohan Sithara have teamed up to give some good music. Camera by Azhakappan had created poetry on celluloid with his camera, recreating natural scenes with a natural feeling. He has captured the beautiful locales of Kuttanad well. The biggest asset of Kazhcha is the story and screenplay by Blessy, (an associate of Lohithadas) which is perfect. Another plus point of the film is the racy way in which the director has been able to tell the story with right mix of comedy and sentiments woven into the plot. Mammooty is the heart and soul of the film and has proved once again that no actor can match up to him in such roles. His comedy timing is also perfect and not once does he step out of line to be the star that he is. The casting is perfect as Yash suits the character of Pavan and Padmapriya another debutant is a promising new star. All the rest of the cast have done their roles well.
Youth Festival
Tuesday, November 9, 2004
Cast: Siddharth, Abey Kunjumon, Bhavana, Meenakshi Director: Jose Thomas Youth Festival is another film with young stars that flopped due to lack of a proper story. Director Jose Thomas and script writer V C Ashok have borrowed from many Tamil films. A mechanic, Sivan (Abey Kunjumon), a rich boy and college student Arjun (Siddharth) and a photographer (Kishore Satya) are in love with the same girl Parvathy (Bhavana) who is the college beauty and a model. A fight breaks out between Arjun and Sivan over the girl and to avoid further complications Arjun's father (C I Paul) sends his son to Kodaikanal for a break. There he meets Kanappan's (Cochin Haneefa) daughter Athira (Meenakshi). Kannappan mistakes Sivan who also comes to the hill station as Arjun and tries to get Athira married to Sivan. Sivan falls in love with Athira and realizing Arjun's deep love for Parvathy he invites her to Kodaikanal. She reaches Kodai on a modeling assignment with the photographer who plays dirty. How the lovers are united and the photographer dies forms the rest of the story. Abey Kunjumon is far more impressive than Siddharth, while Satya as the villain has miles to go. Siddharth who had an impressive debut in Nammal should choose his roles more carefully. Meenakshi lacks nativity and she is too fat in a role that offers nothing much to do. The comedy also falls flat and music of M Jayachandran is a major let down.
Mammootty once again plays Big Brother in Vesham
Tuesday, November 9, 2004
V M Vinu's Vesham produced by Appachan under the banner of Swargachitra has Mammootty playing the role of a Big Brother. The film tells the story of Appu (Mammootty), who had to discontinue his education following his mother's death. He then made up his mind to give his younger brother Hari (Indrajeet) the best of education. After his graduation, Hari goes to England to study Business Management. But when Hari returns from abroad, he is unable to adjust with his brother or his family members. His outlook and way of life has changed and he finds that he is out of place among his family members. This leads to a conflict and this forms the plot of Vesham, which has Mammootty playing the role of Appu and Indrajit as Hari. Innocent plays the role of their father Pappan while Mohini makes a comeback as Appu's wife. Gopika of For the People fame is cast opposite Indrajit, while the others include Jagathy Sreekumar, Kalabhavan Mani, Saikumar, Cochin Haneefa, Augustine, Devi Chandana, Sindhu Menon and Riyaz Khan. T A Razak, the family tear-jerker specialist has written the screenplay and S A Rajkumar the Tamil music director tunes the songs written by Kaithapram. The film is shot at Kozhikode and will be released during Christmas.
Udayananu Tharam
Tuesday, November 9, 2004
Debutant Roshan Andrew's film Udayananu Tharam under the banner of Calton Films tells the story of Udayan. Mohanlal plays the role of Udayan who struggled very hard to become a director. Actor Sreenivasan pens the script who had struggled himself for many years as an assistant director in the early days of his life. The film will be a full length comedy that takes a close look at the other side of tinsel town. Lohithadas the well-known script writer and director plays an important role as Pratap, a film director and Sreenivasan plays Rajappan Thengamoodu a shrewd comedian who grabs everybody's role. Says Sreenivasan: 'I have been working on the script for the last three years I know a lot of humorous incidents and secrets inside the industry which will be unfolded in the film'. The film is produced by Karunakaran who has done off-beat successful films like Chinthavishtayaya Syamala and Narendran Makan Jayakanthan Vaka. Kaithapuram's lyrics are tuned by Deepak Dev. The cast also has Meena who is paired with Mohanlal for the fifth time along with Cochin Haneefa, Innocent, Salim Kumar and others
Rasikan
Tuesday, November 9, 2004
After the success of Meesha Madhavan, Lal Jose and Dilip are back with Rasikan. The film is scripted by debutant Murali Krishnan, son of actor Bharat Gopi. The shooting of the film is taking place in Ernakulam. Dileep plays Sivankutty, a petty rowdy who lives in a slum area called Dalawa Street. The inhabitants of the area include the middle class category as well as the destitute. Sivankutty is a do-gooder for the people around him though he is unemployed. A very busy man with a lot of social and cultural activities, he organises crowds for dharnas and strikes. Apart from all this, he also arranges youths for superstars to run their fan clubs and even sells tickets in black in front of cinema halls. His family consists of his mother, sister and nephew Kuttan. He even sells tickets in black in front of the theatres. Sivankutty has a large family to support. Sivankutty instinctively reacts when seen any unlawful activities. His close aide is Jango who adores his boss. As usual, Dilip is busy with his forthcoming projects like Rafi Mecartin's untitled film and Johnny Antony's Kochi Rajavu. Sumvritha, a student of St Theresa's College is making her debut as Dileep's heroine in this film. The shooting of the film is taking place in a small house near the Kochi South Railway Station. The film is produced by Sudheesh under the banner of Trinity. Rajeev Ravi wields camera for the film. Girish Puthencheery and Vidyasagar have composed music for the film. Other casts include Mala Aravindan, Kalabhavan Narayanankutty, Manikandan, Dinesh, Neena Kurup, Sukumari, Ambika Mohan and many others. The film will be a Ramzan and Diwali release slated on November 12.
Ponmudi Puzhayorathu
Tuesday, November 9, 2004
Ponmudi Puzhayorathu : Yesteryear actress Sheela plays the central character in the film Ponmudi Puzhayoratthu directed by Johnson Esthapan. The shooting of the film is fast progressing in Shornur. Madhu Warrier plays the hero Kumaran. Nandanam fame Aravind plays second hero in the film. Subadhra (Sheela), the mother of the village involved in Mudiyattom had to leave her hereditary occupation when the people lost interest in it. In order to survive, she used to go for sand gathering work. But when the government prohibited it, the question of survival haunted her. Kumaran (Madhu Warrier) and Valsala (Meenakshi) are Subadhra's children. Seeing the plight of his mother, Kumaran decides to leave the village and goes to the city in search of work. On the first day itself, he was shocked to see the city life but gradually he began to cope up with it. Seeing the change in his son's life, Subadhra kept aloof from him. But later, Kumaran understood the duplicity of the city life and when he reached home, his mother refused to accept him. The film also has Kalabhavan Mani, Nedumudi Venu, Vishnu, Indrans, Suja Karthika, Bindu Panicker and many others. A song sequence of Aravind and Meenakshi were recently shot on the banks of Bharathapuzha River. The others on the sets were Madhu Warrier and Murali Menon. Murali Menon (husband of Cuckoo Parameswaran) has an important role in this film. Ponmudi Puzhayoratthu is Johnson Esthapan's debut film. He had earlier assisted G S Vijayan. Johnson had also scripted for many professional dramas. Ilayaraja composes music for the songs of Girish Puthencherry. Azhagappan wields camera for the film
Hartal: 15 arrested in Pathanamthitta, clash in Tirur
Tuesday, November 9, 2004
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: 15 BJP activists were arrested from Pathanamthitta in today's hartal called forth by BJP. The arrest came in the wake of forced closing of shops by BJP activists. Clash occurred at Kollari near Tirur as well. Four people were injured in the clash which occurred when RSS activists tried to close shops, but were stopped by NDF activists.
Kerala ready for record-breaking tourist season:
Tuesday, November 9, 2004
[Kerala, India]: Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 7 : With heavy bookings being reported for the tourist season beginning mid-November, the Kerala government and the travel industry expect to outdo last year's record. "Initial booking reports reveal this season is going to be better than last year," Tourism Minister K.C. Venugopal told. "We also expect it to be an extended season this year. Both the government and the industry are geared up." K.C. Chandrahasan of Kerala Travels Interserve, a leading tour operator that has handled names like the Kennedys, Paul McCartney and prince of Saudi Arabia, said his bookings showed this season may register as much as a 50 percent increase. "We are concentrating on new markets this year, and are hopeful of getting tourists in large numbers from Australia and Russia, besides the usual markets in Europe," Chandrahasan said. "Only last week, a group of 16 retailers led by Wand, the biggest tour operator in Russia, went around Kerala. They are expected to bring in a good number of tourists towards the beginning of 2005." The state is not going to let go of its regular visitors either. Koshy John, a professional tourist guide, has just returned from a two-month visit to Germany and France, two of Kerala's biggest sources of tourists. "German tourists have always been our mainstay," John told. "And from the feedback I got, the number of tourists from both Germany and France is going to be huge." Tomy Pulikattil, who owns a fleet of houseboats in Alappuzha, also said bookings were much better than in the last season. "For the first time, we are also getting a good response from Arabs. There is no doubt the current season will be better than any season in the past," Pulikattil said. The hotel industry is ready. Jose Dominic, who spearheads operations at CGH Earth, formerly Casino Group of Hotels, said they had invested Rs.50 million in refurbishing three premium properties at vintage tourist spots in the state. "My brand new property at Palakkad, 'Kalari Kovilakam', built at a cost of Rs.100 million, is also ready. There is no doubt this season is going to be Kerala's best ever. I can see that from my bookings," he said. The government will play the role of a facilitator. 'Destination Cleaning' has been launched for cleaning up all important tourist spots on a daily basis, said Venugopal. "We are also giving finishing touches to maintain public comfort stations at important destinations," the minister said. The tourist season in Kerala begins in mid-November, peaks in early January before tapering towards the middle of March. The last season was the best the state has ever had, recording a turnover of more than Rs.59 billion ($1.3 billion) - an increase of Rs.10 billion over the season before. The state also earned nearly Rs.10 billion in foreign exchange, a 39 percent increase over the last season. Nearly 300,000 foreign tourists visited Kerala last season, a jump of almost 30 percent. A record 5.9 million domestic tourists also visited.
Hartal total, peaceful in Kerala
Tuesday, November 9, 2004
Thiruvananthapuram: Barring minor incidents of stone-pelting at offices and private vehicles in some places, the BJP-sponsored dawn-to-dusk hartal to protest hike in petrol and diesel prices passed off peacefully in Kerala on Monday. The hartal was total in all districts with shops and business establishments remaining closed and vehicles keeping off the roads. Only two-wheelers and a few private cars were seen plying. Police said hartal supporters pelted stones at a few offices in the capital. A report from Kasargod said the glass panes of a travel agency office was broken in stone-throwing. Long-distance passengers who arrived at railway stations and bus stands were put into difficulty with the non-availability of transport. Educational institutions did not function throughout the state, while thin attendance was reported from government, private offices and banks. However, Kochi shipyard, Cochin Port Trust and FACT reported good attendance. BJP activists took out marches in district centres. BJP state president P S Sreedharan Pillai addressed workers who held a demonstration in front of the secretariat. He urged the UDF government in the state to forego additional sales tax on petroleum products to help eas |
