Kerala News Archive: May 2006

Kerala Tourism campaign on for mansoon season
Wednesday, May 31, 2006 | MP

The early onset of mansoon rains seems to be blessing for the Kerala tourism who is on an agressive tourism campaign making the best out of the rainy season. The State tourism department is organising a 'Mansoon festival',a 5 day event in June at the Kanakakunnu palace in Thiruvananthapuram aimed to boost the tourist inflow to the state during the mansoon which is otherwise considered an offseason. Innovative campaign concepts like Rain walks, stress relief and rejuvenation with Ayurvedic therapies are in the offing aimed at the holiday travelers. Other promotional packages are also lined up specially targetted for honey moon couples, professionals from metro cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi.

Aakasha Gopuram
Wednesday, May 31, 2006 | MP

Aaksha Gopuram is a film inspired from the renowned Norweigan writer Henrik Ibsen's drama named 'Master Builder'. This Malayalam film will be directed by K.P Kumaran and superstar Mohanlal will play the lead protagonist in the film. Bollywood producer Taizoon F Khorakiwala is producing the film. Meera Jasmine, Shwetha Menon, Geethu Mohandas are the female casts. Besides Bharat Gopi, Nedumudi Venu etc.also play in this film. Aakasha Gopuram which is scheduled for December release is also preparing to participate in many international film festivals including Berlin film festival in next January.

Suresh Gopi starrer Pathaaka on June 5th
Tuesday, May 30, 2006 | MP

Lately Malayalam actor Suresh Gopi is busy with handful of films. After Rashtram and Chintamani Kola Case, this action star's K.Madhu film, Pathaka is already out there for release. The film is slated to reach theaters on June 5th. In Rashtram, Suresh donned the role of Kerala CM while Pathaaka is another movie of the political genre in which Suresh Gopi plays the character, George Tharian an Industrial Minister.

Smart City: HC asks govt to make clear its stand
Tuesday, May 30, 2006 | MP

The Kerala High Court had asked the V.S Achutanandan headed State government to make clear its position on the Smart City project which was initated by the Chandy government. In view of a petition filed in the court, the HC bench had sought for government's clarification on this regard within a time period of 30 days. An initial agreement was signed between the Dubai Internet City (DIC) and the state govt in October 2005 by the then Chief Minister Oommen Chandy on the Kochi Smart City project which is estimated at a cost of Rs 15 billon. But the final deal was delayed after CPM strongly protesting to the move.

North Kerala hit by heavy mansoon rains
Monday, May 29, 2006 | MP

The heavy mansoon rains lashing in Kerala over the past few days has caused massive destruction in many parts of North Kerala. Flash floods and landslides triggered by the heavy winds and rains leaving several houses damaged and many low lying areas of Kozhikode district under water. Many areas of Malappuram and Wyanad districts are also affected with the persistent rains damaging crop lands and disrupting normal life in the region. Strong winds are likely to continue in the coming days and district authorities are making arrangments to relocate people to safer ares.

Bharathan
Monday, May 29, 2006 | MP

Filmmaker Anildas new project 'Bharatam' is almost done with its shooting. K N Suresh under the banner of Nandakishore Films produces the film. Actor Biju Menon plays the lead protagonist 'Bharatan' in the film. Geetu Mohandas pair opposite him. Madhumuttom is the scriptwriter. Other casts are Jagathy Sreekumar, Innocent, Salim Kumar, Sudheesh, Jayakrishnan, Kalpana, Sreelatha and others. Jayachandran scores the music while Kavalam is the lyricist.

CUSAT CAT 2006 entrance results announced
Sunday, May 28, 2006 | MP

The results of the common entrance test,CAT 2006 heldd by the Cochin University of Science and Technology for admissions to various B.Tech. courses has been announced. The results are published in the CUSAT's website,www.cusat.ac.in and also made available through the IVRS facility. Around 25,000 students had appeared for the exam which was conducted on May 13,14 th across the country and in abroad at Dubai.

Veteran actor Oduvil Unnikrishnan no more
Saturday, May 27, 2006 | MP

Veteran Malayalam actor Oduvil Unnikrishnan passed away on Saturday morning. He was suffering from ailing health and was on treatment for kidney problems for quite a while. He was 62.His last rituals will be held tommorrow at Tiruvalmalai.Some of his recent films are Satyan Anthikkad's Rasathanthram, Achuvinte Ammma. Having been a versatile actor he made his entry as a drama artiste and had acted in many a films managing serious as well as comic roles with ease. Some of his character roles included films like 'Devasuram', 'Kathapurushan', 'Aaram Thampuran' etc. He even won state award for 'Nizhal Kuthu'. Many from the film industry has mourned over the death of this great actor.

Govt. committed to NRI welfare, says Union Minister
Saturday, May 27, 2006 | AA

Problems faced by non-resident Indians in the Gulf sector are being studied by the Government and actions have already been initiated to resolve them soon, said Mr. Vayalar Ravi, Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs. The minister revealed this in an address at the Indian embassy in Abu Dhabi recently. Pension scheme for Gulf returnees and opening of NRI centres are being taken up. The pension scheme would be launched after forming a corpus fund. NRI centres will be opened in regions with large concentration of expatriate population. The minister extended invitation to NRI investors to join in the efforts for the realisation of the proposed NRI University project. Another major initiative of the Government is the proposed amendment to the Immigration Act. The amendment ensures stringent penalties including jail terms of up to six years for illegal recruiting agents. The minister also said that the state Governments besides conducting awareness programmes for overseas job seekers should also take actions to prosecute illegal agents. Reducing airfares to the Gulf sector and extending Air India Express services to different destinations in the country will also be taken up. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. C.M. Bhandari, Indian Ambassador, said that regular medical camps are being organised for labourers. The government has also given sanction to provide legal advice to Indian labourers on a weekly basis. Lawyers will be hired for the purpose, he added. Earlier the minister inaugurated the computerised consular wing of the Indian embassy in Abu Dhabi.

NRI University under consideration
Saturday, May 27, 2006 | AA

A suggestion to set up a university for the benefit of NRI students is under consideration of the Government, said Mr. Vayalar Ravi, Union Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs. The minister was speaking at a welcome reception in honour of him organised by the Indian Business and Professional Organisation, Dubai. Briefing about the various welfare measures initiated by the Government, Mr. Vayalar Ravi said that a law that ensures stringent penalties for illegal recruiting agents would be soon introduced. The Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs is closely monitoring the problems faced by the Indian labourers in the Gulf and actions are taken as immediately as possible. The minister urged the Indian businessmen in Gulf to utilise investment opportunities in India. During his visit, the minister also had discussions with Mr. S.Y. Bhandari, Indian ambassador; Mr. Yash Sinha, Consul General and various other officials.

Air India Express plans more flights to the Gulf
Saturday, May 27, 2006 | AA

Air India Express, budget service of the national carrier Air India, is planning to start services to Bahrain and Doha soon. Currently the airline operates from five Indian cities of which three are in Kerala. Services from more destinations would also be launched. It is expected that by the end of the year the total number of flights operated by Air India Express will be raised to 73 flights a week from the present 42. The average seat factor in the Kerala-Gulf sector is above 90 percent.

Air Arabia starts Kochi services
Saturday, May 27, 2006 | AA

Air Arabia, budget airline based in UAE, has started services in the Sharjah-Kochi route. Inaugurating a function held in Kochi in connection with the launch of the new service, Mr. Vayalar Ravi, Union Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs said that competition among airlines would ultimately benefit the non-resident community. Appreciating the airline for launching budget services Mr. Vayalar Ravi requested the authorities to start services to Kozhikode. Mr. Adel Ali, CEO of Air Arabia thanked the Government of India, especially the ministry of Civil Aviation, for extending help for the service. Mr. V.J. Kurian, Managing Director, Cochin International Airport, said that the number of airlines operating from the airport has now become 18. Air Arabia will operate four services a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. As per the initial schedule valid till May 11, the flight would depart from Sharjah at 10.20 p.m. to reach Kochi at 3.45 a.m. The departing time from Kochi is 4.30 a.m and arriving time at Sharjah is 7.10 a.m. From May 12, daily services would be operated according to a new schedule. As per this the flight would depart from Sharjah at 1 p.m. to reach Kochi at 6.25 p.m. The departing time from Kochi and reaching time are 7.10 p.m. and 9.50 p.m. respectively.

SBT revises NRI interest rates
Saturday, May 27, 2006 | AA

The State Bank of Travancore (SBT) has announced an increase in interest rates for NRI deposits. The new rates are 6.33 p.c. for deposits from one year to below two years; 6.34 for above two years to below three years and 6.35 for deposits above three years up to five years.

Joemon-Mammooty film starts in Kochi
Saturday, May 27, 2006 | MP

Director Joemon's film,Bhargavacharitham Moonam Khandam with Mammooty in the lead has started with its shooting in Kochi. Mammootty plays a humourous character of an underworld don, called 'Current Bhargavan' in the film. Sreenivasan pens the story, screenplay and dialogues for the film who also plays a key role of a doctor in the film. The film will be shot in premises of Kochi, Athirapally, Chennai, Ooty etc. is expected to reach theaters in August ahead of the Onam time.

SBI- Kerala circle networks all its branches
Saturday, May 27, 2006 | MP

The State Bank of India's Kerala circle has successfully introduced core banking facility in all of its branches in the State. With this the bank has achieved full networking of all its 247 branches covering Kerala and Union Territory of Lakshadweep. SBI customers would now be able to access their accounts from anywhere in the country. The bank is said to have implemented the centralised facility in a period of just 20 months. Dedicating the networking to its consumers,SBI chairman A K Purwar, said that all its customers would now be the customers of the bank and not just the customers of their respective branches.

2006 SSLC Results Announced
Friday, May 26, 2006 | AA

The SSLC results were published in 25 May 2006 with 68.95 % pass in this years SSLC exams. More than 170 schools registered 100%sucess. Education Minister M A Baby announced the results at a press conference said of the total 4, 71,248 students who appeared for the examination, 3, 24,911 had become eligible for higher studies. A total of 1,799 students got A-plus grade in all subjects. Girls outsmarted boys in securing A-plus grade with 1,265 of them getting the highest grade. A total of 534 boys, 29 students belonging to SC community and two belonging to ST category got A-plus grades, he said. Kottayam recorded the highest pass percentage over 80%. The maximum number of students appeared for the examinations from Malappuram. Providence Girls High School, Kozhikode produced a 100 per cent victory with the maximum number of students. All the 272 students who appeared here became eligible for higher studies. 9 schools from middile east recorded 100% pass. Of the 1,022 students who appeared for the exam in the various Middle East countries in March, all but 17 passed.

You can access the Kerala SSLC 2006 Results Here

Miss India
Friday, May 26, 2006 | MP

Miss India as the name suggests is a film themed on beauty and the glamour world. The film is directed by Kamal. It is also known that the filmmaker is in search for new talents who will be chosen as the main characters of the film. The film revolves around a Keralite girl who aspires to become the beauty queen and her trials in life to bag the crown forms the core of the story. Comedians Jagathy Sreekumar, Innocent etc. casts in the film.Kaladharan from Mumbai is the producer of the film.

Pre-natal act to be strictly enforced: Health Minister
Friday, May 26, 2006 | MP

In view of the rising cases of female foeticide, Kerala's Health Minister,PK Sreemathy stressed on enforcing the Pre Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PNDT) Act across the health centers in the state. This act prohibits the misuse of Prenatal Diagnostic Techniques for determination of the sex of a foetus, which could lead to female foeticide. Reports indicate that Kerala's child sex ratio has fallen below 1,000 which is of a growing concern and the Minister asserted that strong action would be taken against those scanning centres that indulge in these malpractises.

Prajapati set for June 16
Thursday, May 25, 2006 | MP

Mammootty starrer Prajapathi is set for an early release. The movie was earlier announced for July is said to reach theaters on June 16th. Plot against a rustic village, filmmaker Renjith tells a story themed on family rivalries through the film. Kannada actress Aditi Rao plays the female lead in the film. Valiyaveetil Films who had their recent hit Rajamanickyam is bringing Prajapati to the screens and is hopeful of recreating another success story in the film trade.

KSEB to give 3 lakh new power connections
Thursday, May 25, 2006 | MP

Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) is expecting to give 3 lakh new power connections this year.This was informed by Electricity Minister A.K. Balan while addressing the press. And all those pending applicants who are waiting for new connections will be availed power connection within a month. He also said that bill arrears around Rs.1,500 crore were overdue from the electricity consumers so far of which RS 800 cr was due from government institutions and remaining from private organisations.

Actress Asin back to Malayalam film industry
Wednesday, May 24, 2006 | MP

Malayalee actress Asin who made an entry into Malayalam film industry with Saytan film, 'Narendran Makan Jayakaanthan Vaka' is making her return to Malayalam again. She went unnoticed in Kerala but in Tamil she made ripples with many of her films like 'Majaa' turning out superhits. Now this pretty Kerala girl is making her comeback to home with Johnny Antony's Dileep starrer, Batman in which she plays the female lead. The film is expected to reach theaters during Christmas.

Rs 3,500cr expansion work for Kochi Intl airport
Wednesday, May 24, 2006 | MP

Kochi International airport is to set for major makeover over the coming years.The State government has announced that it would spent Rs 3,500 crore towards development works of the airport and its premises."The work would be taken up in 488 acres owned by Cochin International Airports Limited (CIAL) near the airport and would be completed by 2012," said Chief Minister VS Achuthanandan while addressing the media. The expansion scheme will comprise of developing aircraft maintenance hangar, aviation training centre, convention centre, setting up hotels, cargo development, shopping malls, food courts, speciality hospital, educational institution, amusement park etc.

Ashwaroodan
Tuesday, May 23, 2006 | MP

National award winning diector Jayaraj is making a film with Suresh Gopi in the lead.The duo has earlier worked together in films like Kaliyattom, Athbudham etc. Telungu actress Padmapriya plays the female lead in the film.Sai Kumar, Captain Raju, T.G.Ravi etc are the other casts. Dr Rama Naidu, father of Telungu actor Venkatesh is producing the film under the banner of Suresh productions. Newcomers Sajiv and Mahesh are the script writers. The film which is progressing with its shooting is expected for release in June.

59.21 pass in higher secondary exams this year
Tuesday, May 23, 2006 | MP

The results of the Higher Secondary exams held in the State this year has witnessed a total of 59.21 percentage pass.Minister for Education Education Minister M A Baby, who announced the results here on Monday, said that a total of 3,66,523 students appeared for the exam of which 2,17,012 has passed. 36,529 students got distinction while 74,347 got first class.Forty schools in the state has emerged with 100 per cent pass in the exams.

E Ahmed is Muslim League new General Secretary
Monday, May 22, 2006 | MP

Indian Union Muslim League(IUML) has selected Union Minister E Ahmed as the party's new General Secretary. The post was handed over to Ahmed following P K Kunhalikutty's resignation from the post owing to the humiliating defeat of the party in the recent assembly elections. The other party key posts were also announced. C T Ahammadali, who won from Kasargode is the IUML leader in the assembly and P K Abdurabb chosen as the Deputy leader.Kutty Ahmed Kutty is the legislative party Secretary.

Vadakkumnathan
Monday, May 22, 2006 | MP

Vadakkumnathan is a brilliant musical family film from director Shajoon Karial. It gives much importance to music and rarely movies of this genre are made. Music director late Ravindran had composed music for the film and all the songs are highly appreciative. Mohanlal excels in the role of Bharath Pisharody, a Sanskrit scholar who runs away from his home on his wedding day. And when he is finally found by his family members he is altogether a different and disturbed man. Padmapriya who plays his lady love is impressive. Murali, Kaviyoor Ponnamma, Kavya Madhavan all does justice to their respective characters. Songs are pictured well and S.Kumar camerawork deserves special mention. Though a little lengthy this family drama told in a musical theme is definitely worth a watch.

Tourism Minister calls for improved infrastructure
Sunday, May 21, 2006 | MP

Tourism minister,Kodieri Balakrishnan has called on for improved infrastrucure facilities in the state to promote the booming tourism industry in Kerala.'If more investment has to come in to the tourism sector, there has to be urgent infrastructure development and that is one area where I will lay more emphasis,' said the newly appointed minister. He also added that the Tourism industry would would focus on boosting the Eco-tourism, pilgrim tourism and health tourism sectors and on ways to overcome the increasing pollution in the state.

Pachakuthira
Sunday, May 21, 2006 | MP

Director Kamal who has offered many classics to Malayalam film industry has Dileep playing double role again in this film. However one cannot expect the same from what was expected of a Kamal film. The story line adapted from the Oscar winning Hollywood flick, 'Rainman' in the Indianised version fail to meet any of the standards of the original. Dileep is natural with his performance but Anandakuttan's character could have done better. The movie is slow in pace. The film looks to be more intended for the kids audience. Ilayaraja's songs has nothing much to offer. It would have been better if little more attention was paid on to the script.

Dileep-Shaji Kailas joins for Onam flick
Saturday, May 20, 2006 | MP

Keralites favourite hero Dileep and director Shaji Kailas are teaming up for the first time. Earlier a movie with the duo working together was announced but later rolled back. Now this film scheduled for release during Onam season is said to be a mass entertainer filled with the right ingredients of a masala movie.J.Pallassery is the script writer for the film which will soon be going floors by mid June.

Smart City: Govt to go ahead only after changes
Saturday, May 20, 2006 | MP

Chief Minister VS Achuthanandan said that his government would go ahead with the Smart City project only if the Dubai Internet City (DIC) agree to make changes to the existing form. The state's interests should be preserved and the conditions that would affect the state's interests need to be reviewed. “What do DIC have to do with IT promotion? They are into buying land, constructing buildings and doing more of the same with the money generated,” said the CM claiming that the present agreement made was more of a property deal.

Mayaavi
Friday, May 19, 2006 | MP

Hit Malayalam film director Shafi who has done Thommanum Makkalum with Mammoooty is teaming up with the superstar again in his next venture titled 'Mayaavi'. The film will be produced by Vaishakha Movies. Rafi - Mecartin will pen the script. Alex Paul composes the music. The film is scheduled for Christmas release.

VS sworn in; promises on corruption free govt
Friday, May 19, 2006 | MP

V.S.Achuthanandan has sworn in as the 20th Chief Minister of Kerala on Thursday. And on his first address to the state he promised to provide a corruption free government and called on all state employees to give total committment to their work. "Corruption will be rooted out and all government officials will have to do their job properly.", he said. Alleging that his government will not be like the previous corrupted UDF govt,he added that transparency will be highlight of his new govt.

CPI-M take hold of main portfolios in LDF ministry
Thursday, May 18, 2006 | MP

When the new LDF government headed by V.S. Achuthanandan takes in today, CPI-M forms the major part in the cabinet. Of the 19 cabinet ministries, CPI-M has reserverd 12 of them including the major portfolios including Home ministry, Finance, education, health, fisheries, excise etc. Achuthanandan was denied home portfolio which went to CPI-M's Koderi Balakrishnan. CPI got 4 while JD(S),Kerala Congress-J,and Revolutionary Socialist Party got one each. LDF's other allies, Kerala Congress-S, Nationalist Congress Party and Congress-S were left with no berths in the new ministry. And interestingly, 17 of the 19 ministers are first timers.

Mohanlal to feature in film on Mother Teresa
Thursday, May 18, 2006 | MP

Malayalam superstar Mohanlal will be featuring in the English film that will be themed on the life and works of the Nobel prize winner Mother Teresa. The film directed by Malayalam director T.Rajivnath who had made films like 'Moksham', 'Janani', Thannal' etc. Santhosh Sivan does the cinematography. Hollywood actress Paris Hilton will be cast in the role of Mother Teresa. The other cast also include top stars like Kamal Hassan, Mithun Chakravarthy etc. Filmed in English the movie will be made in many other launguages as well.

Kerala Property Expo in Doha woos NRIs
Wednesday, May 17, 2006 | MP

The Kerala Builders Forum jointly with State Bank of India (SBI) and the State Bank of Travancore conducted a real estate property expo, Kerala Property Expo 2006 held in Doha. The 2 day expo that concludes on Wednesday was primarily targeted at the Kerala NRIs based in the Gulf who is interested in investing in Kerala real estate markets. As many as 30 reputed builders from across South India participated in the event. As a part of the exhibition scheme, special incentives were announced by the banks on house loans which that can be availed on purchase of plot or building of house.

Alibhai
Tuesday, May 16, 2006 | MP

Shaji Kailas is making a big budget film with Mohanlal in the lead titled Alibhai. The movie is said to be based on a real life story of a heroic character of Kozhikode named Alibhai who fights for the poor and the needy. Antony Perumbavoor is producing the film. The trio was last seen together working for Narasimham. A Bollywood heroine is being projected as the female lead. T. A Shaheed pens the story for the film. The movie is said to be a comedy cum action thriller aimed to enthrall the crowds.The film is being promoted as a mass entertainer which is scheduled for Christmas release.

Udayananu Tharam in Tamil; Prithvi hero
Tuesday, May 16, 2006 | MP

Malayalam debutant Roshan Andrew's hit film, 'Udayananu Tharam' is making its way to Tamil industry soon. Actor Prakash Raj is said to produce the Tamil remake of the film in which he himself will play the role of Sreenivasan. Prithviraj is roped in to play the character of Udayan played by Mohanlal in the original version. It is certainly going to be a challenge for Prithvi to enact the role of Mohanlal who plays a struggling assistant movie director in the film.

Achuthanandan to take oath on May 18
Tuesday, May 16, 2006 | MP

Kerala's next CM was finally announced with CPI-M unanimously selecting senior leader V S Achuthanandan for the post. The new ministry will take oath on May 18th. However the internal division within the party was rather evident with Party Secretary Pinarayi Vijayan's group gaining most of the ministerial portfolios. And it is also unlikely for V S to get the Home portfolio which is expected to go to Kodiyeri Balakrishnan. The other ministers in the new ministry include Paloli Muhammadkutty, P K Gurudasan, M A Baby, T M Thomas Isacc, A K Balan and P K Sreemathi etc. K Radhakrishnan is being

Hutch-Sagem launches Rs 1399 offer in Kerala
Monday, May 15, 2006 | MP

Hutch and Sagem has jointly announced a new offer for the Kerala celluar customers. The plan provides a Hutch connection along with a highly featured Sagem handset all for just Rs 1399. The handset also comes with a 1 year guarantee. According to the Hutch officials, this new scheme will be made available both on prepaid and postpaid connections.

Politburo leaves to State on final CM decision
Sunday, May 14, 2006 | MP

Though there are strong signs within the politburo that V S Achutanandan will be handed over the Chief ministerial post, CPM Politburo maintained that the final decision on this regard will be made by the Kerala state committee on May 15th. At the same time General Secretary Prakash Karat has mentioned of a 'formulae' being worked out which sources say that VS's CM term may be for a year or two. The cabinet formation is also to be decided by the State Committee.

Its Suresh Gopi's turn with Blessy
Saturday, May 13, 2006 | MP

Malayalam director, Blessy in a short span has proved his filmmaking talents with films like Kazcha and Thanmatra which were highly appreciated by the cinegoers. It was superstars Mammooty and Mohanlal who starred in these films as heros. Now Blessy is roping in action hero, Suresh Gopi for his next project for which the director himself will write the script and screenplay.Unlike his earlier projects, which dealed with serious aspects, this one is said to be more of a commercial film. Ragam Movies is producing the film which expected to reach theaters during the Christmas season.

Batman
Saturday, May 13, 2006 | MP

Director Johny Antony who is riding high with the success of Thuruppu Gulan is ontohis new project titled 'Batman' which is projected for Xmas release. Dileep is the hero of the film. Dileep who has proved that he is flexible with any role is playing an advocate in this film. The film is said to be entertainer filled with comedy and action. Galaxy films is producing Batman.

64 first time members in State Assembly
Saturday, May 13, 2006 | MP

The 12th Kerala Assembly will comprise of as many as 64 first time entrants. The youngest of the members of the house will be P C Vishnunath, 27 year old Congress student leader and also a law student. The house would also constitute 40 members elected for the second time and 15 members making it to the third time in a row. Meanwhile outgoing CM, Oommen Chandy has formally handed over his resignation to Governor but Chandy will continue the office till the new ministry is formed.

CPM Politburo to decide on next CM
Friday, May 12, 2006 | MP

With LDF all set to form government in Kerala, the party is yet to decide on its next chief minister in the state.Though there are indications that the party will offer the CM post to its favoured nominee, VS Achuthanandan, CPM is yet to formaly announce on this issue. Meantime a high powered meeting of the Polit buro is set for May 13th to decide on this. "The Polit Bureau will make its views known to the state committees, which will take the final decision in this regard," says Prakash Karat.

Assembly polls: Kerala goes the Left way
Thursday, May 11, 2006 | MP

The CPI(M)led Left Democratic Front (LDF) has won 98 seats of the 140 seats in the Assembly elections held in Kerala. Sweeping the polls, LDF government will come into power for the next 5 year term with CPI-M veteran V.S Achutandan favourably to be the next Chief minister of the state. UDF could get only 42 seats with a major blow to many of its top leaders. The key contestants who faced defeat include R. Balakrishna Pillai, T.M. Jacob, K.R Gowriamma , Muslim League's P.K. Kunhalikutty etc. DIC-K leader K Muraleedharan also had a humiliating defeat by over 7,000 votes. This time too BJP failed to get any seat in the state.

Balram pounding money at box-office
Thursday, May 11, 2006 | MP

Mammooty – IV Sasi team’s latest offing, Balram Vs Taradas is truly a money spinner at the boxoffice. The film made a massive record collection at the opening week itself. The film churned a distributors share of Rs 1.26 Crores from 50 screens. As usual the major collection came from Mammooty’s strong hold areas like the northern districts of Malabar. Of late Mammooty has been seen acting in many masala movies, like Rajamanikam, Thuruppu Gulan etc, but all had turned out hits. And its no surprise an actor of such a caliber could do wonders in the trade.

Admit cards for May 16-21 entrance exams issued
Thursday, May 11, 2006 | MP

According to the Commissioner for Entrance Examinations, the admit cards for the entrance exams for professional courses scheduled from May 16 to 21 have been sent to all qualifying candidates. And those eligible students in the state who have not recieved their admit cards by May 14th are to contact the respective liaison officers between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. and collect their alternate identification certificate. Besides the 182 schools in the state being exam centers the Kerala Education Society Senior Secondary School in New Delhi and the Indian High School in Dubai are also selected as exam centers.

Chandranilekkulla Vazhi wins Padmarajan award for best film
Thursday, May 11, 2006 | MP

Biju Varkey's Chandranilekkulla Vazhi has won the 14th Padmarajan award for best film in 2005 and the script of the same film has won the best screenplay award. Also Kanne Madanguka, directed by Albert, won the special jury award. The awards named in honour of late Malayalam filmmaker P Padmarajan is instituted by the Padmarajan Memorial Trust and will be given away on May 23 at the Kala Bhavan Theatre.

Malayalam version of Da Vinci code
Wednesday, May 10, 2006 | MP

The Malayalam version of the controversial Dan Brown’s bestseller Da Vinci Code will be hitting the shelves shortly. The book is being translated to Malayalam by two Delhi based journalists, Jomy Thomas and R Gopikrishnan and also the first translation to any Indian language. D.C. Books of Kottayam are the publishers of the book. The Malayalam version of Da Vinci Code is expected to hit the shelves on May 19th.

Vakkom defends state's finance condition
Tuesday, May 9, 2006 | MP

Kerala Finance minister Vakkom Purushothaman defended the state's finance condition saying that Kerala's public debt growth rate has came down considerably during the curruent UDF rule. "Contrary to reports that the state is in deep financial trouble, in actuality as on May 6, 2006, the treasury has a surplus of Rs.2.01 billion," said Vakkom. He also claimed that though the public debt of the state had increased from Rs.239.19 billion in 2001 to Rs.450.24 million in 2006, the growth rate during the UDF term was just 88% (from 2001-2006) compared to the earlier LDF government's 137% (from 1996-2001).

Prajapati, Mahasamudram gear up for July
Tuesday, May 9, 2006 | MP

Superstar films were on a fray during this Vishu season. All of recent Mammooty and Mohanlal films have emerged as winners at the box-office. Now these superstars are engaged with their next set of respective projects. Mammootty is shooting for Prajapati which is getting readied for release in the month of July. Mohanlal film Mahasamudram is yet to finish its final leg of shooting which will be continued after the return of Lal who is currently shooting for Keerthichakra in Kashmir. Mahasamudram, that had been delayed for long owing to various reasons is now hopeful of reaching theaters in July.

Big B, Ash eyed for Kerala tourism promos
Monday, May 8, 2006 | MP

With the approaching monsoon days in front, Kerala tourism authorities are trying out their best to catch up the off season that would bang the tourism business in the state. Lately renowned Bollywood celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai are being roped in for promoting its tourism campaign. With a move to boost the state tourism drive, Bachchan will be seen associated with the tourism promos, while Ash is said to be featured in an Ayurveda tourism commercial.

New Malayalam radio channel in the offing
Monday, May 8, 2006 | MP

Prasar Bharati has announced its plans to begin a new Malayalam radio channel for its audio listeners. According to Prasar Bharati, the 24 hour new radio channel is likely to go in air by the end of May. The channel would broadcast various entertainment programmes including music, drama and other informative contents.

NRI voting rights: Suggestions invited
Sunday, May 7, 2006 | AA

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on ‘Personnel, Public Grievances, Law and Justice’ has invited suggestions on ‘The Representation of the People (Amendment) Bill, 2006’. The committee has decided to invite memoranda containing views of the individuals/organizations interested in the subject matter of the Bill and also to hear oral evidence on the subject, according to an official release. The Bill was introduced in the Rajya Sabha on 27th February, 2006. Those desirous of submitting memoranda may send two copies (in English or Hindi). They should also indicate whether they would be interested in giving oral evidence before the Committee. Suggestions may be send in the address: Shri R.B. Gupta, Deputy Secretary, Rajya Sabha Secretariat, Room No. 005, Ground Floor, Parliament House Annexe, New Delhi 110001 (Tel: 23034056 and Fax 23794328, E-mail: behari@sansad.nic.in). The last date for receiving suggestions is 8th May 2006.

Indian launches net-ticketing
Sunday, May 7, 2006 | AA

Indian (formerly Indian Airlines) has introduced net-ticketing through internet banking. Passengers who have internet banking accounts with State Bank of India and Union Bank of India will have the option of making online payment for their tickets. After logging on to www.indianairlines.in the passenger can select the payment option through internet banking. The person will have to specify his choice of bank where he is an account holder after which, he will be taken to the bank's website. There he can access his account on-line and make the payment. Once this process is completed, he is brought back to the Indian website. In case of a cancellation and refund, the passenger should send an on-line request through the airline's website. Some other banks including Punjab National Bank, HDFC, Citibank and ABN Amro are also likely to be brought into the ambit of the facility. The airline already offers the facility of credit card payments.

New Kochi flights from Air Arabia
Sunday, May 7, 2006 | AA

Air Arabia, the low-fare airline, has announced the launch of new services from United Arab Emirates to Kochi from 1st May ’06. There will be four flights in a week to Kochi until 11th May and it will be made a daily service from 12th May. ‘We are delighted to add more destinations in India which would give the opportunity to more people to go home at affordable fares’, said Mr. Sheikh Abdullah Bin Mohammed Al Thani, Chairman of Air Arabia. With the addition of the new services the total number of flights operated by the airline per week to India will be 26. For bookings contact Air Arabia’s call centres in Sharjah on (+971 6) 5580000, in Kochi on (0484) 2359601 or in Mumbai on (022) 28395240. Bookings can also be made through the website www.airarabia.com or Air Arabia sales shops and appointed travel agents.

58,000 new jobs in Gulf by 2008, says Oman minister
Sunday, May 7, 2006 | AA

The ongoing investments in the oil production sector in the Gulf region would create around 58,000 employment opportunities for skilled personnel within two years, said Dr. Mohammed bin Hamad bin Saif Al Rumhy, Minister of Oil and Gas, Oman. The minister was speaking at the ‘Oil and Gas West Asia Exhibition’ held recently in Oman. Utilisation of modern technologies and increasing manpower are two challenges faced by Oman. Investments to the tune of about US $ 1000 crores have been included in the five-year plan for oil production. Seven international companies have been selected to find and develop new oil reserves, the minister said.

Kavya Madhavan back to college
Sunday, May 7, 2006 | MP

Kavya Madhavan is one of the most sought after actress in the Malayalam film industry. This talented actress has played a variety of roles in her career span. But she is yet to enact the role of a college girl told in the backdrop of a college campus. And this is exactly what she will be portraying in Lal Jose's next film, Classmates. Prithviraj, Indrajit and Jayasurya are the other lead cast in the film. With Kavya back to college, her fans would be excited to see their favourite actress in the new avatar

CSI, Kerala launches Heart Care projects in Kochi
Sunday, May 7, 2006 | MP

In a move to deal with the increasing heart ailments in the country ,the Cardiological Society of India (CSI) Kerala Chapter has launched two heart care projects in Kochi.Kerala Governor R L Bhatia has dedicated the projects to the citizens of Kerala. The projects named 'Save Heart project' and 'Kerala Heart House' are aimed at providing better cardiac care services for the commonman and to educate them on the need to have better heart care. The Save Heart project would also serve as a platform for people to interact with experts in this medical field. Besides the project aims to provide 24-hour helpline via telephone and e-mail.

Amidst mishaps,Thrissur Pooram on May7
Saturday, May 6, 2006 | MP

Amidst mishaps,this years Thrissur Pooram festival will takeoff on May 7th. The spectacular event is expected to draw lot of tourists from all over to throng the Thekkinkadu grounds to watch the spectacle. The recent mishap due to the firework blast at explosives manufacturing unit at Padukkad has killed 7. Though accidents in connection with festival fireworks are not new,nothing much has been done to avoid such incidents.After the incident, the State government had asked to keep a check on the licence being issued to the devaswoms of the two temples that conduct the festival.Controller of Explosives have ordered an inquiry into the accident. These temples are given sanction for the fireworks based on certain conditions. But however they are seldom met by the authorities.

Rathri Mazha
Saturday, May 6, 2006 | MP

Rathri Mazha is a thought provoking film from Lenin Rajendran who has delivered movies like , Chillu, Puraavritham, Swathi Thirunaal, Mazha etc. The film was earlier named Nilavu. Talented Meera Jasmine plays the lead character role in the film which gives much significance to art like music and dance. The main plot is set on the background of the School of Dance. The film tells the story of two youngsters who come across each other via internet matrimonial column and ultimately falls in love. And the odds and the truth they got to face when they decide to get married form the core of the story. Vineeth, Manoj K. Jayan,Biju Menon, Lalu Alex, Cochin Haneefa, Dinesh Panicker, Sudheer, Rajendran, Bhanupriya etc. form the rest of the cast. Green Cinema House produces the film. Madhu Neelakandan does the cinematography.

Vizhinjam port attracting international cruise vessels
Saturday, May 6, 2006 | AA

The port of Vizhinjam in the state capital is attracting international cruise vessels. The recent arrival of the Bahamas vessel M V Amadea proves the port's popularity among cruisers. The vessel had around 450 German tourists who were on a 41-day world tour. The tourists were taken for a guided tour in the city and some of them headed to backwater destinations in Kollam. The vessel later left for Kochi.

Tourism revenue shows increase of 13.31%
Saturday, May 6, 2006 | AA

Foreign tourist arrivals to Kerala has crossed 3.46 lakhs mark in 2005, according to the provisional tourist statistics of Kerala Tourism. Foreign tourists arrivals to the state is estimated as 346499 during the period. Foreign Exchange Earnings has also recorded a growth of 22.54 per cent. The total revenue (including direct and indirect) generated from tourism in 2005 is estimated as Rs.7738 crores, an increase of 13.31 per cent.

Shaji Kailas with Mohanlal film
Friday, May 5, 2006 | MP

Director Shaji Kailas is planning to team up with Mohanlal again after a longtime. The duo has many a successful films like Aaram, Thampuran, Narasimham etc.Lastly they worked together for Natturajavu. Their new project is said to be based on the real life heroic character of Alibhai, a native of Kozhikode. T.A. Shahid is the scriptwriter. The film is scheduled for Christmas season.

Summer rains expected soon in state
Friday, May 5, 2006 | MP

The Thiruvananthapuram Met Department has said that the State could experience some summer rains early by next week. This would give some relief to the extreme summer heat in Kerala. Recently the Kerala coastal is experiencing severe dry conditions and also a rise in temperature due to depression, that originated near Andaman and Nicobar. But IMD officials indicate that there could be a change in the speed and direction of wind towards Kerala in the coming days which is a sign of arrival of summer rains.

Voting ends peacefully; Counting on May 11
Thursday, May 4, 2006 | MP

With the final phase of polling at Kasargod and Kannur on Wednesday, it has come to end of Assembly elections in the state. Except for few isolated incidents, voting was unusually peaceful in Kerala this time amidst tight security arrangements. Estimate indicated 72% turnout in Kannur and 67% in Kasaragode elections. Counting of votes in Kerala will be on May 11.

Dileep, Bhavana starrer Chess on July 4th
Thursday, May 4, 2006 | MP

After Pachakuthira, Dileep is starring in Raj Babu’s Chess which has begun with its shooting in Kochi and premises. Dileep who always go for a variety of roles is this time too trying out a different role. He is playing a visually challenged person who stands up against the odds in life. Bhavana plays opposite to him in Chess.The film is scheduled to hit the theaters on his lucky date, July 4th. All his earlier films released on this day turned out superhits.

It is the best ever opening for a Mammootty film -IV Sasi
Wednesday, May 3, 2006 | AA

Commenting on his latest flick "Belram Vs Tharadas", IV Sasi says that “It is the best ever opening for a Mammootty film in recent times. The feedback that I am getting is positive and it looks like the film is turning out to be a super hit”.

Kannur, Kasaragod districts goes to polls
Wednesday, May 3, 2006 | MP

Kannur and Kasaragod districts of Kerala are going into polls on May 3rd during the third and final phase of polling for the Assembly elections in the state. Around 2.4 million are expected to caste their vote spread in 15 constituencies with 2373 polling stations of these two northern districts. High security has been arranged forWednesday’s polling as many of the booths in these areas are identified as sensitive.

Suresh Gopi busy with new releases
Wednesday, May 3, 2006 | MP

Action hero Suresh Gopi is busy with new releases ahead. He had as many as 3 movies in a row. Now after Chintamni Kola Case, Rastram the superstar is awaiting the release of his next film, Pathaka which is scheduled to hit theaters on March 5th. The film directed by K.Madhu tells a minister’s story on the backdrop of politics.

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