Kerala News Archive: August 2007

Blessy's Calcutta News To Get Completed
Thursday, August 30, 2007 | AJ

Blessy's Calcutta News with Dileep will get completed this week.This will be the fourth film by Blessy who had delivered bigger hits in the past like Kazhcha and Tanmatra.The film which was earlier planned for this onam got delayed due to the film strikes and then due to the continuous rain in Bengal.The film will now reach the theatres as a Ramzan release. The movie will feature Indrajith, Innocent,Meera Jasmine,Vimala,Manasa,Bindu Panicker,Kaviyoor Ponnamma and many others.Deb Jyothi Mishra, assistant of Salil Choudhary composes music for the songs penned by Vyalar Sharatchandra Varma. S Kumar wields camera for the film.

Mohanlal's New Hindi film On Aug 31
Thursday, August 30, 2007 | AJ

Mohanlal's second Hindi film Ramgopal Varma Ki Aag inspired from Sholay is all set to be in theatres by August 31.The film will be released in 25 centres across the state. The movie which is released by Pyramid Saimira will have 700 prints all across the nation. Mohanlal is playing an encounter specialist inspector Narsimha in the film.Amitabh Bachchan playing psychopath villain named Babban. The other stars in the film include Ajay Devgun,Prashant Raj, Sushmitha Sen, Nisha Kothari,Suchitra Krishnamurthy.Urmila Matondkar in a special appearance as 'Mehbooba'.

Vineeth Srinivasan In 'Cycle'
Thursday, August 30, 2007 | AJ

After Inspector Garud direcor Johnny Antony is into his next venture titled 'Cycle'.Vineeth Srinivasan,son of actor Sreenivasan,plays the lead role,which has story and script by James Albert.Bhama,heroine of 'Nivedhyam' plays opposite to Vineeth. Other casts include Jagathy Sreekumar,Innocent,Salim Kumar and many others.The pooja ceremony was held on the second week of August. The film would be brought to the theatres by Lal Release.

Narain ties the knot
Thursday, August 30, 2007 | AJ

Happy wedding for Narain,the young hero entered the wedlock with Manju at a temple in Kozhikode on Sunday.Narain, who shot to fame with Classmates in Malayalam, made a mark for himself acting in Chithiram Pesuthadi followed by a good outing in Pallikoodam.On Sunday, he married Manju with his parents, relatives and close friends taking part. Prominent directors and actors from Malluwood turned up on the occasion.Manju, a one-time TV compere, had sung in Narain’s first film in Tamil Chithiram Pesuthadi.

Manmohan Singh wants Kerala-TN row over Salem rail division solved amicably
Tuesday, August 28, 2007 | AA

New Delhi, Aug 27 (ANI): Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has written a letter to Railway Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav to solve the railway row between Kerala and Tamil Nadu “amicably”. Singh has asked Lalu to convene a joint meeting of both Chief Ministers to resolve the issue. Kerala Chief Minister V S Achutanandan met Lalu last week. Kerala has maintained that it is not opposed to the setting up of a new railway division in Salem in Tamil Nadu, but is opposed to bifurcating Palakkad, one of the oldest and profitable divisions in the country. The creation of the new division is being seen as a political setback for the CPI (M) Government in Kerala. As a compromise formula, a new zone for Kerala maybe set up, tentatively named as the "West Coast Railway" Zone. With this, the number of railway zones would go up to 17, as compared to only nine in 1997. On Saturday, protestors in Tamil Nadu stopped Kerala-bound trains. Demonstrators in Coimbatore and Salem stopped around a dozen trains to express their anger over Kerala’s opposition to create a Salem division. The trains were allowed to move after Lalu asked Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K. Karunanidhi to intervene. (ANI)

Kerala celebrates Onam with fervour and gaiety
Tuesday, August 28, 2007 | AA

By Juhan SamuelKochi, Aug 27 (ANI): The Malayalee population here today celebrated the traditional harvest festival Onam, which also marks the homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali. Devotees in large number visited temples since morning to offer prayers. Devotees praise and thank the God for a bountiful yield. It is also time to enjoy the bounty of nature after a year of hard labour. Elaborate elephant procession followed by delicious and sumptuous meals with over 15 varieties is the main attraction of the day at the Thrikakkara temple. Sudarshan Kumar, devotee said, "It is a great blessing to worship and have afternoon meals in the presence of deity at Thrikkara temple. I feel blessed." To have afternoon meals at the temple is said to be a blessing. The Thrikakkara temple is believed to be the only temple having Vamana deity, the reincarnation of Lord Vishnu. T. Thankappan Nair, temple committee member, said: "Here the deity is Vamana and there is no other temple for this in Kerala or in India. This makes this an important shrine during the Onam season. Here we conduct afternoon lunch for more than 20,000 devotees irrespective of their caste or creed." According to the legend, Onam recalls the story of King Mahabali, who created a kingdom in what is now Kerala. Afraid of his rising popularity, Gods sent Lord Vishnu to crush Mahabali. Vishnu disguised himself as Vamana, a small Brahmin boy, and came to Mahabali's court. He asked for as much land as he could cover in three steps. With the first stride, Vamana covered heaven, with the second, he covered earth. For the third step, he put his foot on Mahabali's head and pushed him down to the nether world. Mahabali then asked that he be allowed to visit his kingdom once a year. Pleased with his virtues, Vishnu made him the king of hell and granted a boon to him that he could visit his kingdom once a year. Onam is celebrated to welcome the legendary king returning annually to his earthly abode and kingdom. The festival falls during the month of Chingam (August-September as per the Gregorian calendar), the first month of the Malayalam calendar and lasts for ten days. Activities during the festival revolve around worshipping, music, dances, sports, boat races and sumptuous food. Traditionally celebrated as a harvest festival, mythologically it is linked to Malayalee-Hindu folktales. (ANI)

Mata Amritanandamayi pledges 48- million-dollar aid for drought-hit farmers
Sunday, August 26, 2007 | MP

Kollam (Kerala), Aug 25 (ANI): Mata Amritanandamayi has pledged 48 million dollars for the relief of the country's drought-hit farmers.Hundreds of farmers have committed suicide this year in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala and Andhra Pradesh, as a result of failed crops, import competition and crippling interest payments.The godwoman also pledged to provide free education to 500,000 poor children without any distinction of religion."There are lot of women in the society who suffered a lot due to various problems; I can see different problems of them. Children are entitled to quality education irrespective of social status," she told reporters at her hermitage near Kollam in Kerala.Amritanandamayi, 51, who wears a white saree and a large diamond stud on her nose, has tens of thousands of followers in India and abroad. (ANI)

Pyramid Saimira Enter Malayalam Film Industry
Sunday, August 26, 2007 | AJ

Pyramid Saimira Theatre Ltd (PSTL) has entered the Malayalam film industry with plans to lease 150 theatres across the state.The company plans to invest Rs.25 crore initially and lease theatres in Thiruvananthapuram, Kannur, Thalassery, Vadakara, Payyannur, Manathavady, Kalpetta, Sulthan Bathery, Alappuzha, Punalur, Anchal, Varkala and Karunagapally, where new films are released.The company plans to produce and buy 10 Malayalam films each every year. It has secured the national distribution rights of Mohanlal's'Paradesi'.It will also distribute ‘Ram Gopal Varma Ke Aag,’ featuring Amitabh Bachchan and Mohanlal, scheduled for release on August 31.The main priorities of PSTL were modernisation of theatres,including setting up of multiplexes, improving distribution and marketing of Malayalam films and popularising the latest technology in film making.The company was investing in digital technology and developing a network operations centre to convert and deliver digital prints simultaneously to multiple screens.

Onam Feast On Mini Screen
Sunday, August 26, 2007 | AJ

Last few year's super hit malayalam films will be shown in the four big channels during this Onam. on 'Thiruonam' day Mammootty's blockbuster Rajamanickyam will be shown on Surya TV, while Asianet is telecasting Mohanlal's Udayananu Tharam, while Amritha TV is showing Vadukkamnathan. Also on the day. we can see Raapakal, Udayon, Lion and Pathaka. The other films charted for this Onam are Dilip's Chandupottu, Mani's Ben Johnson, Jayaram's Madhuchandralekha and Mani's LokanathanI.A.S. Interview's of Mammootty, Mohanlal, Jayaram, Prabhu, Kavya, and Samvritha will be shown in various channels.

Prithviraj In Padmakumar's ‘Bose’
Sunday, August 26, 2007 | AJ

After Ammakilikoodu, Vargam and Vasthavam director M.Padmakumar's next film with Prithviraj is titled as ‘Bose’. The film is scripted by A.K. Sajan. The film which is planned to start by the mid of December will have Meera Jasmine, Saikumar, Jagathy, Lalu Alex and Manoj K Jayan in important roles.The film is produced by Chandra Kumar in his banner of Malavika productions, which had earlier produced The Don.

Use of Chinese fishing nets, a dying heritage in Kochi
Saturday, August 25, 2007 | MP

Fort Kochi, Aug 25 (ANI): With Kochi fast emerging as an Information Technology hub and business city, one of its oldest practices faces the possibility of extinction. The use of the famous Chinese fishing nets at the Fort Kochi Beach, 700-year-old heritage, is on its way out in the fast growing city.The nets once attracted tourists and locals. Only ten are left out of the 20, and most fishermen are finding it hard to maintain them. According to an old fisherman, after the monsoon season, the two months that follow, are reaping time for net owners and labourers. This season, the catch has been much less as compared to earlier years, mainly due to the heavy flow of water caused by incessant rains. “We all are finding it hard this time. For last many years, we never experienced something like this,” claims Mohammad Abduty, a fisherman. Water pollutants and oil in the seawater have forced fishing boats to suspend their operations. Fisherfolk are in debt due to the high maintenance costs involved in keeping their nets in good condition. The cost of making one of these nets is estimated to be anywhere between Rs. two and three lakhs, depending upon its size.The money earned through the sale of fish is shared between the owner of the net and the labourer on a 70:30 ratio basis. Earlier, each labourer used to earn between 100 to 200 rupees for a few hours of work. Now, this has decreased to 20 to 50 rupees a day, which is insufficient. The Government to has not come forward with an offer of any loan or grant to sustain this heritage. The catch is usually modest with a few variety fishes. These are then sold to passers or tourists. Mohammad Syed, a labourer, said: “Government and travel agencies cash on us by charging heavy amounts from tourists to show our work. But they never try to help us out.” The nets are lowered into the water by the crane like structure and raised after a few minutes. The system is sufficiently balanced to allow a man to walk along the main beam. The Chinese fishing nets in Kerala are one of a kind in India. It is believed that traders from the court of Chinese ruler Kublai Khan introduced these nets to Cochin coast in Kerala in the 14th century. (ANI)

Meet the dog in Kerala that dehusks coconuts
Saturday, August 25, 2007 | MP

By Juhan SamuelVatakara, Aug 25 (ANI): Jully, a female dog owned by a native of Vatakara near Kerala’s Calicut District, helps in dehusking coconuts.K. Sujit, a plumber by profession, bought Jully when she was just two-and-half years old. This cross between a German Sheperd and a Labrador has been trained to dehusk soft and tender coconuts.Jully dehusks two to three coconuts a day, and is a great help to the family. “It has a passion for coconuts and gets excited when it sees a coconut. We have to chain it when labourers come to take a few coconuts from our trees,” said Surjit. In Kerala, coconuts are used as a base in almost all dishes. A family of five needs one to two coconuts a day for use in meals. Sujit's wife, Valsala a housewife, finds it a great helping hand.After working on a single coconut, Jully carries it along for few minutes and does not allow anyone to touch it. “If we put one coconut in front of Jully, she dehusks it clearly and neatly. I used to find this a difficult task. But now when I need one, I just put one in front of her, and she does the rest,” Valsala added. (ANI)

Sathyan Anthikkad Again With Mohanlal
Friday, August 24, 2007 | AJ

Sathyan Anthikkad is planning to start his next film with Mohanlal. It took a decade to bring together the old friends Sathyan and Mohanlal to work for Rasathanthram on last year. The film reworked the chemistry and sync between the director and his favorite actor to such an extent that they planned to unite in every alternate year. The director is presently in the last phase of scripting the movie. The film will again present a family subject in the backdrop of Sathyan’s subtle humour. The film which is the Vishu project of Mohanlal in 2008 will start by the December of this year and will be produced by Antony Perumbavoor in the banner of Aashirwaad cinemas.

'Naalu Pennungal' premiers At Toronto
Friday, August 24, 2007 | AJ

Adoor's 'Naalu Pennungal' which is based on female characters from Thakazhi's four famous short stories will premier at the Toronto Film Festival. The film is included in the section Masters Programme in the festival which will be held from Sept. 6 to 15 at Canada.The film features Nandhithadas, Kavya Madhavan, Padmapriya,Geetu Mohandas, Ramya Nambeeshan and Manju Pillai in the lead. The others in the cast Murali, Mukesh, Manoj K Jayan, Sreejith Ravi and Ravi Vallathol. The movie will be released by Emil and Eric films.

Alibhai
Friday, August 24, 2007 | AJ

Shaji Kialas Alibhai is a thorough Mohanlal fare which has him in another hard-hitting performance.The film which moves in a rapid pace offers everything as a mass movie.Alibhai,who is the uncrowned king of Palayam market in Kozhikode.He is the savior of the poor and downtrodden. He has his group of friends,who is into everything that affects the lives of the people in the market.Sundaresan Thambi and Dan Abraham who wants to drive Alibhai and his men out of the market and build a mall there. They are hand in glove with the city corporation and the state administration and are having the aid of big investors from foreign countries. They are into anything, even to the levels of mass blasting, to settle their old scores and change the Kozhikode city into an international tourist center which provides fun, wine and women. How Alibhai resists their attempts to save the market and the city forms the rest of the plot.Others in the cast including Gopika, Navya Nair, Siddique, Sai Kumar, Rajan .P. Dev, Jagadheesh, Cochin Haneefa,Sudheesh,Shammy Thilakan,Ganesh,KPAC Lalitha and Suraj.The film scripts by T.A. Shahid, Cinematographed by Sharavanan, edited by Don Max. The film has 2 songs set to music by Alex Paul in the lyrics off Gireesh Puthencherry.

Mohanlal turns script writer
Monday, August 20, 2007 | AJ

After becoming successful as a film producer,Mohanlal is now planning to start writing stories for films. The film in which we are going to see the story written by Lal is titled Swapnamaalika. The film produced by Karimbil Films will be supported in additional scripting by K.A. Devarajan, who will debut as the director through this film. Mohanlal himself will appear in the lead of this film. The film project that is planned to make a premiere at American film market will be one of the important projects of Mohanlal in 2008.

Mammootty And Sreenivasan Teams Up Again
Monday, August 20, 2007 | AJ

After Bhargava Charitham Mammootty teams up with Sreenivasan.The new film produced by Sreenivasan and Mukesh.The film begin in October. The casts also include Mukesh, Sreenivasan, Jagadhish and many others. The story, screen play and dialogues are by Sreenivasan and directed by Mohan.

Suresh Gopi In M.A Nishaad Film
Monday, August 20, 2007 | AJ

After Pakal and Nagaram,director M.A.Nishaad,is into his next venture titled Ayudham. It stars Suresh Gopi in the lead role.Suresh Gopi is a sincere,disciplined Crime Branch Deputy Superintendent of Police Rishikesh,in this film.The film scripted by the director himself.Nishaad is planning to shoot this movie in a variety of locations which includes Dubai, Chennai and Thiruvananthapuram.The other cast of the film are yet to be finalized.

Malayalis in Chennai celebrate Onam
Sunday, August 19, 2007 | MP

Chennai,Aug 19 (ANI): Malayalis, people hailing from Kerala, in Chennai organized a community celebration to mark the harvest festival of Onam on Sunday.The 10-day long festival, the biggest in Kerala, began on August 17 and concludes on August 27 with a grand celebration called 'Thiruvonam'.Onam, a harvest festival, is celebrated in Kerala when young girls and women make flower patterns called 'Pookalam' in local parlance to welcome the mythical King Mahabali.In Chennai too, Malayalis held a flower pattern contest.The contest was organised by World Malayali Association, an association of Malayalis living in Chennai."You can see all forms of traditional arts of Kerala. Theyyam, Kathakali main art forms from Kerala- boat race, snake boat race- all varieties can be seen here today," said Ramachandran, organiser of the event.The intricate traditional flower décor saw at least 500 participants decorating 50 different colourful designs, displaying the rich, traditional art forms from their home state."People from all over Chennai come here, celebrate Onam together," said Saranya, a participant.Onam recalls the story of mythical demon king Mahabali who created a kingdom in what is now Kerala. (ANI)

Floating art exhibition in God's own country
Sunday, August 19, 2007 | MP

Cochin, Aug.19 (ANI): A houseboat has opened up its decks for artists to hold exhibitions in a bid to reach out art aficionados and tourists, while enjoying the serenity of backwaters in Kerala. From its first appearance it may appear "Sandarsan" may appear just another houseboat. But make no mistake, for it's not any ordinary houseboat. Unlike other houseboats, it offers its visitors not just the usual cruise rides down the lazy waters but a window into the world of art. Paintings of upcoming and amateur artists adorn the panels of the boat, all put on display for the art lovers to enjoy in an ambience of peace and tranquillity. Girija Shakar, Managing Director of 'Sandarsan' said they are being flooded with bookings.Shankar said: "The houseboat is mainly to promote the young and armature artists in the region who otherwise do not get any chance to showcase their work. So we thought of converting our boat to a floating art gallery on which they can even sell paintings and earn some money, we have a lot of bookings for the floating art gallery." The houseboat is open to any artist looking to exhibit their works free of charge. The artworks on display are also put up on sale.Vipin K. Nair, an artist who has put up around 38 of his paintings, said it provides artists a platform to launch themselves. "I am very glad and happy that my paintings were chosen to be displayed on the houseboat, which is attracting many tourists and art lovers and at the same time I am getting good incentives for my work," said Nair. While a 46-hour ride costs rupees 18,000 (435.20 dollars), a 22-hour rides costs rupees 9,000 (217.60 dollars). The boat rides make shorts trips in and around Kochi and the neighbouring Aalappuzha. K. Dominic, an art lover said it was a new experience altogether."As an art lover it was great to enjoy the serenity and artwork together," he added. Kerala is one of the most sought after tourist destinations in the world. Replete with scenic backwaters and breathtaking beauty, the 'God's own country' is known for its famed 'Kettuvallams' or houseboats. Kerala is ranked third among Indian states in terms of foreign tourist arrivals after the desert state of Rajasthan and coastal Goa.Tourism has emerged as Kerala's fastest growing industry, with the sector registering a growth rate almost double the national average in the past years. (ANI)

Mammootty Will Donate Food Items
Sunday, August 19, 2007 | AJ

Mammootty is going to celebrate this onam in a different way.On the occasion of Onam,he will donate food items to a thousand families in the village, Parathodu near Kanjirappally in Kottayam district,which is hit by chikunguniya.The village which was worst hit by the disease claimed the most lives in the state.He is planning this to initiate such measures from the other celebrities also, so that the sufferers will get a maximum benefit, during the season.

Siddhique is back To Malayalam
Sunday, August 19, 2007 | AJ

Super hit director Siddhique is planning to make his Malayalam film for 2008 will have Dileep as the hero.The film will be produced by Johny Sagarika.Siddhique who is presently into the making of Tamil film Sadhu Mirandal with Kavya in the lead,he is the only one director who had a record of converting his every film into mega hits. Siddhique and Lal delivered Ramajirao Speaking,Harihar Nagar,God Father,Vietnam Colony and Kabooliwaalah,which were all bigger hits in Malayalam. Thereafter the duo parted and Lal became a producer with the banner Lal Creations.The last movie that appeared in Malayalam with Siddhique as the director was The Chronic Bachelor.

Onam festival begins in Kerala
Saturday, August 18, 2007 | MP

Kochi, Aug 17 (ANI): Onam, the harvest festival of Kerala began here today to a traditional beginning with a grand pomp and show at the Tripunithura town near Kochi. The 10-day festival began with the "Athachamayam" ceremony or, the traditional beginning of Onam celebrations. Organised every year on Atham asterism of the Malayalam month "Chingam", the Onam festival fell this year on Friday. After the flag hoisting, a ceremonial parade was taken out in the narrow streets, headed by the Lord Mahabali. Thousands of devotees participated in the ceremonial parade, headed by the Lord Mahabali, taken out in the narrow streets of Tripunithura town. Also known as Athagosham, the over weeklong festival captivates a large number of tourists from various parts of the country and abroad to Tripunithuta. Besides its religious significance, the festival is also an occasion to witness its highlights being ancient and modern art forms such as folk dances, competitions and other entertainment programs. The ceremonial parade and processions are conducted every year depicting the yesteryears Kochi King's visit in the praise of deity. Traditionally linked to the erstwhile Cochin Royalty, Athachamayam, was supposed to be a reminder of those times when everything had a natural grand dimension and where unviable hierarchies amplified even the ordinary. The program has turned out to be a grand function when people, irrespective of their cast or creed, participate in various programs. Christian Babu Joseph is one such example. He performs the mythological King Mahabali's role. Joseph says that for him, this festival is not related to any single religion but meant by all. Every one is enthusiastic about taking up any role in the program. Preparations start few days ahead of the main function, when various arts clubs in and around Tripunithura unite to participate in the parade in different costumes. Baby Joseph, performing King Mahabali's role, said: "Being a Christian I feel proud and great to take part in the Onam celebrations as one of the best example of communal harmony, this is not for a single religion, in Kerala each and every one or creed joins in the preparations ahead of Onam." Apart from elephant march, theme floats and tableaux, traditional art forms of Kerala like Theyyam, Kummatti, Kolkali, Arjuna Nrutham, Ardha Nareeswaranrutham including, Pulikali (tiger dance) and other folk art forms had gathered at the local Atham Nagar Government Boys High School here. (ANI)

Mohanlal Stage Show in US
Friday, August 17, 2007 | AJ

Mohanlal and his team will leave for US on August 17 to perform cultural shows in the foreign land. The programme named 'Mohanlal Show 2007' will be directed by popular director Joshy. The programmes will be performed in New York, New Jersey and the team will be in US for 40 days. Mukesh, Jagadhish, Vineeth, Suraj Venjaramood, Lakshmi Gopalaswamy, Shweta Menon and Rimi Tomy will accompany the mega star.

Rahman in Muzafir
Friday, August 17, 2007 | AJ

Rahman plays the central character in Muzafir. A Bollywood actress plays heroine to Rahman. The film has script by Pramod Pappan. The film produced by Suneer Hamsa under the banner of Indis Creations has story and dialogues by Babu Janardhanan. The film has camera by Shoukat Lensman. The shooting of the thriller will take place in Dubai,London and Cyprus.

Mukesh, Jayasurya in Currency
Friday, August 17, 2007 | AJ

Mukesh and Jayasurya play the main roles in Swathi Bhaskar's Currency.The film produced by Sreekumar Pillai under the banner of Dancing Ganesha Entertainments will begin this month. The film tells the story of a poor youth, who prints thousand rupee fake notes to shine in front of his lover. The film has P Sreekumar, Anoop Menon, Revathy, Lakshmi Gopalaswamy and many others. The heroine will be from the north. Azhagappan wields camera for the film. Siddharth composes music for the film.

Mohanlal's College Kumaran Started
Friday, August 17, 2007 | AJ

The Shooting of Thulasidas College Kumaaran has started in Thiruvananthapuram.The film,which has Mohanlal in the lead.The film produced by Bensy Martin under the Fairy Queen Productions banner.This time,Mohanlal has six heroines.Vimala Raman,Ramya Nambeesan,Samvritha Sunil then,there are three other newcomer heroines.In the film,they play the roles of college students.Others in the cast include Balachandra Menon,Nedumudi Venu,Janardhanan, Siddique,Risa Bava,Babu Namboothiri,Saikumar,Vijayaraghavan,Saiju Kurup,Mukundan,Baiju,Arun,Manka Mahesh,Shamna,Shruthi etc. The story and script by Suresh Poduval.Music by Ouseppachan. Lyrics for the songs are penned by Shibu Chakravarthy. Venugopal wields the camera. The film will be distributed by Emil & Eric.

A dying community of Cochini Jews takes pride being Indian
Wednesday, August 15, 2007 | MP

Kochi, Aug.14 (ANI): India, a country where all religions and communities have existed in harmony for ages, is also a home to Jews community. In Kochi, the Jews despite getting reduced to just 51, take pride in being a part of the country on its 61st Independence Day. The earliest known Jews are believed to have arrived in the Kerala’s coastal town of Cochin (presently called Kochi) over two-and-a-half millenniums ago. Their ancestors were given a good treatment to make them feel at home by the then rulers, which made them stay back in Cochin. They are today known as Cochini Jews.With the passage of time, many of the young Jews left for the United States or Israel, in search of better pastures. Of the 51 Jews in Cochin, only twenty to twenty are here at present. Others are abroad for various personal reasons. The ones left behind are elderly, most of them above 70 years of age. The Jews here find it difficult to organise functions, as it is mandatory to have at least 10 people to organise any ceremony as per Jews’ customs. Alias Josephai, who runs a nursery in the Kadvumbhagam Synagogue in Ernakulam, admits that they have always been respected in all fields and received same treatment as others.He says: “India is my country and it is beautiful in all sense. Majority of the youth want to leave this place or have already left for Israel for higher studies or for career. But I am not, as I was born here. I am accustomed to the local tradition and culture. If I go anywhere, I will have to start it again from the beginning.” He adds that the Kerala government has given them many privileges apart from various quotas in medical and engineering institutes. The State government has given the Jews community reservation in every medical and engineering college with at least one seat. Besides, the State government does not conduct any public exam on Saturday as it is “Sabbath”, the holy day of Jews. The Government has also issued the voter identity card to them. Jews are a religious minority in the country. Judaism was one of the first foreign religions to have arrived in India and assimilated with local traditions through cultural diffusion. Of the total Jewish population in India, about half live in Mizoram and a quarter live in the city of Mumbai.Jews have held important positions under Indian princes in the past and even after independence from British Rule, they have risen to very high positions in government, military and industry.The Cochini Jews arrived in India 2,500 years ago and settled down in Cochin, Kerala as traders. The Bene Israel arrived in Maharashtra 2,100 years ago. The Baghdadi Jews arrived in Mumbai from Iraq, Iran, and Afghanistan, and Arab countries about 250 years ago. The Bnei Menashe are Mizo and Kuki tribesmen in Manipur and Mizoram who claim descent from the tribe of Menasseh. The Bene Ephraim (also called Telugu Jews) is a small group who speak Telugu. (ANI)

Kerala’s snake boat competition, a major draw for tourists in Monsoon
Monday, August 13, 2007 | MP

Alleppy (Kerala), Aug.12 (ANI): What perhaps started as a small, local boat competition among villagers of Kerala’s Alleppey District, has today become a mega tourist attraction for people from around the country and world, visiting the State during monsoon. The huge presence of domestic and foreign tourists besides locals during the 55th Nehru Trophy Boat Race held here on Saturday highlighted this fact. The world famous snake boat competition gave a thrilling time to the tourists and villagers who travelled long distances to be a part of the annual sports event here. This year, the Nehru Trophy Boat Race was inaugurated by Chief Justice of India K.G.Balakrishnan at the Punnamada Lake in Kerala’s Alleppey District. The major attraction of the boat race was the competition of snake boats or, Chundans Valloms, measuring over 100 feet in length and rowed by over 120 oarsmen.They were called snake boats by the former colonial rulers, who based the name on a native boat found in Norway.The competition began with the snake boats lined up to perform a mass drill, following the signal of a whistle, raising rowing sticks and shouting in chorus. There were about 55 boats of small and giant size, including 18 snake boats.The snake boats and the smaller varieties of Kerala race boats like the Churulan, Veppu and Oadi move in a formation down the 1.4 km stretch of the lake as the sturdy villagers sang the Vanchipattu or, boat songs.The winner team Paipadd Chundan of the Kumarakom Town Boat Club, covered the 1.4 kilometre stretch in a record time of 5 minutes and three seconds. It was led by Kunjumon as captain. The popularity of the event has been steadily increasing with passage of time. Today, the event is famous all over the world. Many of them especially visit the country to join be a part of the gala event and share locals’ enthusiasm on the banks of lake.The presence of foreigner tourists was higher than the previous years. The tourists were thrilled to watch the boat racing event and being a part of huge gathering full of so many villagers. The history of the Nehru Trophy Boat Race is associated with the visit of the first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru to Alappuzha in 1952. It is said, thrilled and excited on the performance of the oarsmen, Nehru had jumped out of the security cordon into the boat, as his daughter Indira Gandhi and grandsons Rajiv and Sanjay, looked on anxiously.On his return to Delhi, Nehru donated a Silver Trophy, which is a replica of a snake boat placed on a wooden abacus with his signature. Later, the district administration converted the event into an annual competition. The winner gets the Prime Minister's Trophy besides other prizes.Held on the second Saturday of August every year, Nehru Boat Race is the most colourful and vibrant sports event in Kerala. On the day of this fiercely fought boat race, the tranquil lake front is transformed into a sea of humanity with an estimated two lakh people. (ANI)

Five films for Onam
Monday, August 13, 2007 | AJ

Onam 2007 will see five films including three superstar films.Mohanlal's Alibhai, Mammootty's Ore Kadal,Suresh Gopi's Kichamani M B A, Jayaram's Seetha Kalyanam and Lohithadas's Naivedhyam are the films that are a releasing during Onam.The first to be in theatres will be Alibhai which will get released on August 15th.Ore Kadal,Kichamani MBA,Naivedhyam and Seetha Kalyanam will also make into theatres by next weekend.

Suresh Gopi With Vinayan
Saturday, August 11, 2007 | AJ

Director Vinayan, is for the first time making a film with Suresh Gopi in the lead.Film titled Black Cat.It is the story of a mentally retarded person, who works as a hit man for Tharakan Muthalali, a pompous rich man in the Sea side Town.Dr Meenakshi who comes from Mumbai to meet Yousuf was received by Tharakan and his comrades. When she sees Black, some past incidents come to her mind and finds him as he holds some mystery beneath his weird mannerisms and a confused past. Is Black the person she knew years ago? She tries to find out. She starts questioning people to find the truth about Black, his past and how he landed up on the Malabar Coast. Songs are penned by Vayalar Sharat Chandra Varma and Rajeev Alungal and music composed by Alphonse and M Jayachandran.The film produced under the banner of Essar fs production, the film will be distributed by Good Way Corporation.

Chocolate For Ramzan
Saturday, August 11, 2007 | AJ

Chocolate will have its third and final schedule from August 10th. The film which was jammed with the industry strikes couldn't keep up with the dates of the stars and was rescheduled. The movie was earlier planned to rlease for Onam, but now becomes a Ramzan release.The film tells the tale of a teenager who is forced to study in a women's college.Prithviraj is the hero of the movie.The film with three heroines Roma,Samvritha Sunil and Remya Nambeeshan.The campus based story,directed by Shafi and scripted by Sachi-Sethu. The music department of the film is handled by Vayalar Sharth -Alex Paul team. Cinematograped by Azhagappan,the film is edited by Hariharaputhran.

National Film Awards Announced
Thursday, August 9, 2007 | AJ

The 53rd National Film Awards for 2005 were announced.Malayalam cinema got 3 awards.Urvashi has bagged the best supporting actress for her stellar role in Achuvintae Amma.The Nargis Dutt Award for Best Feature Film on National Integration has gone to Daivanamathil. It is produced by Aryadan Shoukath. Jayaraj is the director.Blessy's Thanmathra got best Malayalam film award.This film is produced by centuary films.

K.Madhu And Mammootty Teams up Again
Thursday, August 9, 2007 | AJ

After the success of Nadhiya Kollapetta Rathri, K.Madhu and A.K. Sajan coming together,and Mammootty in the lead.The film will be as usual another investigative thriller, which also will have something different to offer.Now the super star is busy with his new film Nazrani.A.K.Sajan is also working on a couple of projects with both the superstars, for other two directors. He is also planning to direct a sequel for his hit Stop Violence.

Mammootty Bags Filmfare Award
Tuesday, August 7, 2007 | AJ

The 54th Filmfare award for south was held at Hyderbad on Saturday night. Stalwarts from the south attended the function in mass as usual to make the function a grand success. Mammootty and Padma Priya are the best actor and actress in Malayalam for their performance in Karutha Pakshikal.Roshan Andrew's Notebook selected as the best Malayalam film.Amitabh Bachchan,Abhishekh Bachchan,Aishwaraya Rai,Chiranjeevi,Nagarjuna,Venkatesh,Vijay and actresses Ileana,Trisha,Nayantara,Sangeetha,Aarti Agarwal,Tabu and others graced the occasion.

Mohanlal As Drummer
Tuesday, August 7, 2007 | AJ

After Chandrolsavam Ranjith directing a film with Mohanlal named as 'Rock N Roll'.Mohanlal performing a character as drummer(Chandramouli)that he had never been in his career.Chandramouli who returns to Kerala to find his old friends and members of music troupe.Some incidents which happen during his presence are the main highlights of Rock N Roll.Mukesh,Rehman,Lal,Siddique and Harishree Ashokan are also playing.Lakshmi Rai is the heroine.Vidya Sagar composes music written by Girish Puthencherri. Manoj Pillai handles camera. The film is produced by P.M Venugopal under the banner of P. N.V Associates will be distributed by Marikkar films.

Kerala fascinating tourists with “monsoon rejuvenation therapy”
Monday, August 6, 2007 | MP

Kochi, Aug.5 (ANI): As Kerala continues to draw a huge number of tourists from across the country and the world, it is the local “monsoon rejuvenation therapy” which has turned a major draw and the fastest growing segment in health tourism here. Most of the ayurvedic centres in the state are visited by tourists from across the globe during Monsoon season (July-August). Ayurvedic experts say that monsoon season is believed to be the best time for rejuvenation and revitalization not only for the nature but for human beings as well. Realizing the tourism potential of the monsoons, Kerala Tourism, ayurveda resorts and travel agents have come up with various packages for rejuvenation therapies ranging from seven to 21 days with a cost starting ranging from rupees 5,000 to 25,000. There is a steady growth in tourist flow from the United Stated, United Kingdom, France and Germany due ayurveda treatments here. “I am feeling good with the body massage, the treatment was very good and relaxing and even the weather is cool which makes it a good combination for the treatment,” said a woman foreign tourist. It is believed during monsoon the air is pure, pores of the body are open and they are most receptive to herbal oils and therapy needed for any ailments. At many ayurvedic centres here, the patients are given special Panchakarma treatment. It includes uzhichil, pizhichil, dhara, kizhi apart from detoxification and special vegetarian food for the entire no of days. Dr. Krishna Namboodiri, Chief Physician at the Nagarjuna Ayurvedic Centre in Kalady, said: “During the monsoon season all Tridoshas (or the three impurities of body) namely Vata, Pitha and Kapha are aggravated.” “It (monsoon) is the ideal time to flush out impurities and bring all of them back to a balanced state, these therapies not only cure ailments but reinforce the immune system to ensure good health and long life.” The organized sector of ayurveda treatment alone has an estimated turnover of around rupees 500 crore. Forty percent of the total earnings come during the monsoon season. About 4.28 lakh foreign tourists visited Kerala in 2006 compared to 3.46 lakh in 2005. It was a 23.68 per cent increase in international tourist arrivals for year 2006. Foreign exchange earnings were rupees 1,988.4 crores from tourism, an increase of 28.09 per cent for 2006. (ANI)

Stop Violence 2nd Part
Monday, August 6, 2007 | AJ

The second part of Stop Violence, which tells the story of the underworld of Kochi.Prithviraj plays the central character in the film,scripted and directed by A.K.Sajan. Prithvi will play the role of son of Sathan and Stephen's(Vijayaraghavan)son playing the villan role.Jibu Jacob handles the camera.

Amma's Movie On December
Monday, August 6, 2007 | AJ

AMMA's mega movie, starring all super stars of Malayalam filmdom. Mammootty,Mohanlal,Suresh Gopi and Dileep will commence from December. The movie is produced by Dileep on behalf of AMMA.The film scripted by writers Sibi K Thomas and Udaya Krishna. Buzz is that all the four actors would have equal importance in the movie. It would be a delight for the fans of these actors to see their favorite heroes coming together on the screen.

Responsible Tourism walks into Thekkady
Sunday, August 5, 2007 | AA

As part of the recently held workshops on Responsible Tourism at Kovalam, Kumarakom and Wayanad, the State Level Responsible Tourism Committee (SLRTC) organized a similar exercise in Thekkady, which is one of the most happening places for tourism in Kerala. Held at the Periyar House, the workshop was attended by various stakeholders in the tourism industry, besides representatives from local self-governments, people’s representatives, NGOs / CSOs, government officials, media personnel etc.The inaugural session of the workshop was followed by sessions on group discussion on the theme of ‘Economic, Social and Environmental Responsibility’ followed by a session for presentation of findings of the groups, followed by inter-group discussion.The workshop was spearheaded by the top officials of Kerala Tourism. Leading from the front was Dr. Venu V., Secretary, Kerala Tourism, who presented the theme ‘Responsible Tourism.’ According to him, the conflict between the host and service providers, the real beneficiaries of tourism, utilization of resources, negative opinions are some of the major issues under debate. He urged the participants especially the hoteliers to review their roles and responsibilities and to come up with suggestions on how they can be more responsible, to strengthen the linkages with the local community by procuring a certain percentage of locally available raw material items like vegetables, poultry, egg, meat etc. for their hotel operation.Besides Dr. Venu V. other officials who were instrumental in the successful conduct of the workshop through their active presence and efforts were Director, Tourism, Sanjay M. Kaul, Ms. Sarada Muraleedharan, Executive Director, Kudumbasree (Local self-help-groups of women), Mr. T. P. Naryanan Kutty, Director, Ecotourism and Mr. U. V. Jose, Additional Director (P&P), Kerala Tourism.Among the significant outcomes of the workshop was the formation of ‘Destination Level Responsible Tourism Committee’ (DLRTC), which would comprehensively supervise and implement the Responsible Tourism programme for Kovalam. The occasion also witnessed interested hoteliers, signing an undertaking to associate with the initiative of Responsible Tourism.

Nehru Trophy Boat Race on August 11, 2007
Sunday, August 5, 2007 | AA

Venue: Punnamada Backwaters, Alappuzha district. Named after the first Prime Minster of India, Jawahar Lal Nehru, the Nehru Trophy Boat Race is the biggest boat race event on the backwaters of Kerala. The race is held on the second Saturday of August every year and majestic looking snake boats compete for the prized trophy. Apart from the races of Chundanvalloms (snakeboats) and of smaller country crafts, the event offers many fascinating sights such as ceremonial processions, spectacular floats and decorated boats. Getting there: Nearest railway station: Alappuzha, about 6 km away. Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 85 km from Alappuzha.

Central aid for Kannur Fort
Sunday, August 5, 2007 | AA

The Union Government has granted Kerala Tourism a financial aid worth Rs.9 million to be utilized for beautification and also to set up basic amenities for visitors to the historic St.Angelo fort in the District of Kannur. Popularly known as Kannur fort, some of the tasks under the upcoming project would be setting up facility for drinking water, rework of toilets, electrification, parking space, footpaths and beautification. The project would be implemented through the government undertaking Tourists Resorts Kerala Limited (TRKL).

Homestays to be brought under classification
Sunday, August 5, 2007 | AA

Kerala Tourism has decided to go in for classification of homestay operations in the State. Over the years, tourism based on homestays has been catching the attention of both domestic as well as foreign tourists and the government has felt the need to implement certain standards for its running. The homestay classification scheme was recently launched by the Minister for Tourism, Mr. Kodiyeri Balakrishnan at a function held at North Kumbalangi in Ernakulam District. The occasion which was attended Mr. Sanjay M. Kaul, Director, Kerala Tourism, also saw newly classified homestay operators receiving certificates. An awareness session was also held on the same day, which proved useful to the locals, homestay operators and also tourists. The classification scheme outlines certain mandatory guidelines, based upon which the homestays would be approved and categorized into Diamond, Gold and Silver houses.

ringing out the best in hospitality
Sunday, August 5, 2007 | AA

Considered as the first of its kind of HR initiative in India, Kerala Tourism has launched the ‘Let’s Learn’ programme aimed at skill upgradation and capacity building of the personnel in the tourism and hospitality sector. The programme is the latest under ‘Synergy’ the enterprising public-private sector partnership in tourism. Covering all key sections in the tourism and hospitality sector, ‘Let’s Learn’ features specially developed modules designed by leading HR institutions like Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology (IHMCT) and Kerala Institute for Tourism and Travel Studies (KITTS). Participants of the “Let’s Learn’ programme would have the option to undergo the training programme at Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Kozhikode. The learning modules feature subjects in hospitality like front office, F&B services, guest handling and HACCP, while topics under Tour Operations include travel counseling and those meant for tour executives, and senior/middle level executives. According to Secretary, Kerala Tourism, Dr. Venu V., “The programme ‘Let’s Learn’ would be conducted annually, which in due course is expected to impart the right approach and conduct required for personnel in the hospitality service sector of the State. This in turn would significantly contribute to the growth of tourism in Kerala.”

Onam celebrations from August 24
Sunday, August 5, 2007 | AA

Mega shows by television channels and emphasis on traditional art forms will be highlights of the Kerala Tourism's five-day Onam Week celebrations starting on August 24, 2007 Cultural programmes will be staged in all the district headquarters under the aegis of District Tourism Promotion Councils and in major tourist destinations. The Chief Minister, V. S. Achuthanandan will kick off the five-day fete in Chandrasekharan Nair stadium on August 24. The state-level inaugural function will be followed by a mega show by Kairali. Asianet will present programmes on August 26, Jeevan TV on August 27 and Doordarshan on August 28.

IndiGo to commence flights to Kerala
Sunday, August 5, 2007 | AA

Giving a further boost to the connectivity between the metros and the airports in the State, IndiGo will commence flights to Kochi to link Hyderabad and New Delhi.

Heritage tag for Hotel Mascot
Sunday, August 5, 2007 | AA

The flagship property of the Kerala State Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC), Hotel Mascot, is to make heritage as its USP. According to the Managing Director, KTDC, Mr. K. G. Mohanlal, the authorities will seek heritage status for the old block comprising 18 rooms, including three suites, in six months. The block will be retained in the present style of architecture.

16 Ecotourism projects
Sunday, August 5, 2007 | AA

As many as 16 of the 49 ecotourism projects being taken up by the Directorate of Ecotourism has been thrown open to the tourists already. The main ecotourism spots opened for the public are Neyyar, Kallar, Mankayam, Ponmudi, Shenduruney, Konni, Thekkadi, Thommankuthu, Eravikulam, Chimmney, Parambikulam and Aralam.

Increase in tourist arrivals
Sunday, August 5, 2007 | AA

A 25.89% increase in foreign tourist arrivals and 7.95% increase in domestic tourist arrivals have been registered in the State during the first quarter of 2007. The Minister for Tourism and Home Mr. Kodiyeri Balakrishnan said this recently in the State Legislative Assembly.

Ace oarsmen prepare for Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race in Kerala
Sunday, August 5, 2007 | MP

By Juhan Samuel Alleppey (Kerala), Aug 4 (ANI): Trials for the 55th annual Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race have begun in right earnest in the backwaters of Kerala’s Alleppey District.The oarsmen are practicing rigorously on the Punnamada Lake in the district, which is popularly known as the Venice of the East.The practice session starts 10 days prior to the event, which is held annually in the second week of August.Hundreds of oarsmen are selected by each club that is participating in the race. Group sessions are conducted every day before and after practice. It is the responsibility of each club to sponsor the oarsman and his family for the duration of the event. The clubs provide about 3500 rupees to each family to enable them to meet their household expenses, as selected oarsmen are not allowed to work elsewhere while the race is on."The total expense comes to around rupees 700,000 for each snake boat, and more than half of the amount is spent in taking care of oarsmen during practice,” said Joy Kutty, President of town boat club. Each snake boat requires over 150 oarsmen, including hymnists and the captain. The overall expense goes up to rupees 500,000 to rupees 700,000 for practice, dress and food materials.Boat captains or clubs have to find good business sponsors or are left meeting the expenses themselves. A few of them go bankrupt, or face heavy financial losses, which prevents them from participating in the event.The solution to this crisis is to enhance ticket sales. The clubs have stakeholders comprising of farmers, fisherfolk and labourers, who bare the expenditure."Most clubs are facing a financial crisis. Last year, there were prize awards for the first four places in different categories, and this ensured that the boat clubs were debt free. But some of the participating clubs and their members fall into heavy debt after the events," said S.M. Iqbal, Secretary of Boat Club Association.To help these boats and clubs, the State Government has formed a society named the Nehru Trophy Boat Race Society (NTBRS), which is chaired by a district collector.The NTBRS pays 75,000 rupees to these clubs to meet their expenses, which clubs say is insufficient.A total loss of around rupees 4.5 million has been incurred by the NTBRS during the last two years.The snake boat race is a major sponsorship business, as companies find it a good place to market their products effectively.This year, about 55 boats are expected to participate in the race. Five boats have been listed for participation in the pageantry event.The maximum sponsorship amount is given to the most attractive snake boat, and this year, there are 18 of them. Snake boats are long and narrow country boats, originally designed to transport soldiers to the warfront, and have an average speed of about 50 kilometers an hour. Boat races were originally used as community-building pageantries, and converted to a competitive event over 400 years ago. (ANI)

Suresh Gopi Turns Producer
Sunday, August 5, 2007 | AJ

Suresh Gopi has finally decided to produce a movie named as'Ezhaam Mudra'.The film will be directed by noted director Rajiv Naath.The film which is produced in the banner of Grass Hopper Films will also have the star in the lead. Scripted by Balu, the film will tell a story in the backdrop of Sri Lanka. Suresh is appearing in the film as a Navy Doctor, which will start its shooting by end of this month. The film which will be shoot at Colombo will have some of the sequences shot in the sets erected at Kovalam.

Pictures aid in AIDS awareness campaign in Kerala villages
Saturday, August 4, 2007 | MP

Palluruthy (Kerala), Aug 4 (ANI): Unique photo-exhibitions are being held in villages of Kerala to help people remove misconceptions about AIDS/HIV, and making them aware of the precautions needed to prevent the spread of the disease.The five-day exhibition will be taken to the interiors of the State, targeting especially youth and school children."Mainly our exhibition contains details about AIDS infection and HIV infection. It starts with the ABC of the infection, how it causes, how it spreads, whatever test conducted to ensure whether one is positive or not and once effected how a patient should be handled and how the social stigma attached to it can be removed," said Kavita Martin, Field Exhibition Officer. School and college students, who thronged the exhibition in Palluruthy near Kochi appreciated the efforts put up to raise awareness about the dreaded disease."It was really easy to know about HIV and AIDS with the help of pictures. Even a layman can understand it easily this way. It is a good way to spread awareness about AIDS in rural areas," said Bijoy R., a local schoolteacher.The officials say the exhibition also aims to teach people that every HIV infected person does not have AIDS and he or she can mix with normal people.AIDS activists say lack of awareness and widespread stigma and discrimination have contributed to paranoia about the virus, although the country reported its first case over 20 years ago.India has a caseload of 2.47 million HIV/AIDS affected, according to a new U.N. backed government estimate, less than half of previous official estimates. (ANI)

Hallo Become Mega Hit
Saturday, August 4, 2007 | AJ

Mohanlal's 'Hallo'has taken the best ever opening in 2007 for a Malayalam film, in 56 screens with 100 percent opening.The film is turning out first Mega hit of the year so far, and family audience are going crazy about Lal ettan's drunken lawyer act.The way it has opened and is being appreciated, Rafi- Mecartin's family entertainer. Hallo has the potential for a 100 day run! Hallo is doing good business in Mumbai,Chennai and Bangalore.Show the film soon in more cities, including Hyderabad, New Delhi and Pune.

Nadiya Kollapetta Raathri
Saturday, August 4, 2007 | AJ

K.Madhu's Nadiya Kollapetta Raathri has finally hit the screens. Souparnika Express on its inaugural run between Chennai and Mangalore bore witness to three murders. Sharp shooter nadiya, dancer Thulasimani and TV reporter Sreya Maria are found dead. All three were travelling in the AC First Class Compartment. Sharafuddin Tharamasi and his team take up the responsibility of cracking the case. How they solve it and what happens in the process forms the plot of Nadiya Kollapetta Rathri. Suresh Gopi as Sharafuddin and Kavya Madhavan as Nadiya has done their job well. Others in the cast too have done their respective roles well.

Centre takes charge of Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology
Friday, August 3, 2007 | MP

New Delhi, Aug 2 (ANI): The Union Cabinet today gave its approval for taking over the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB), Thiruvanthapuram. This paves the way for the Department of Biotechnology to control the administrative function of the RGCB, which is an autonomous institute. With this development the RGCB becomes the only central biotechnology institute in Kerala. This step would play a major role in implementing relevant biotechnology projects both for the State and for the region as a whole, a government release stated. The institute is also looking forward to become a national research centre for bio-drug discovery programmes based on the rich knowledge of traditional systems of medicine prevalent in Kerala. It also aims to utilize its expertise in cell and molecular biology for developing diagnostic and prognostics markers for disease, targets for drug development and utilization of biomarker data for developing diagnostic kits for better and early diagnosis of cancer and infectious diseases. (ANI)

Dalit NRI donates 20 million dollars to his Kerala village
Thursday, August 2, 2007 | MP

New York, Aug 1 (ANI): A Dalit based in Buffalo, New York, for the last 34 years, has given 20 million dollars to his village in Kerala.
Eighty-one-year-old Kumar Bahuleyan, a neurosurgeon, who once led a lavish lifestyle that included moving around in a Rolls Royce and five Mercedes, besides an aeroplane, has used the money to build a hospital specialising in neurosurgery, a health clinic and a spa in Chemmanakary in Kerala's Kottayam District. Bahuleyan said that the desire to do something for his native place germinated between 1982 and 1987, when he visited the area, and found that nothing had changed. He said that he felt like returning something to the village, which had taught him and made him something in life. Bahuleyan says he lost two younger brothers and a sister to water-borne disease in 1930s, and even today he says he is haunted by their dying screams. As a 'untouchable', Bahuleyan had to take a circutious route to school because he wasn't allowed to pass a Hindu temple. A brilliant student, he succeeded in joining a medical college in Madras. From their, he proceeded to Edinburgh for six years of neurosurgical training before returning home. Unfortunately, there was no vacancy for a neurosurgeon in those days, and Bahuleyan left for Kingston and then Albany Medical College, before coming to Buffalo in 1973 to work with noted American neurosurgeon Dr John Zoll. During his 26-year career, Bahuleyan served as a clinical associate professor in neurosurgery at the University at Buffalo before retiring in 1999 as a multi-millionaire. In 1989, he set up the Bahuleyan Charitable Foundation, which built a small clinic in India for young children and pregnant women in 1993 in south India. Bahuleyan's foundation also built the Indo-American Hospital Brain and Spine Centre in 1996, starting with 80 beds. The foundation opened the Kalathil Health Resorts, offering luxury rooms, health spas and exercise rooms in 2004. Bahuleyan's latest venture -- East India Seven Seas Sailing Company, plans to invite applications from Americans willing to spend a few weeks in India, to volunteer in Bahuleyan's hospital and to teach sailing. Bahuleyan lives with his wife, pathologist Indira Kartha. He spends six months of the year in America, and rest in India, looking after the work of his foundation. (ANI)

Mammootty as Theepetty Chandran
Thursday, August 2, 2007 | AJ

Mammootty's next venture after Raudram will be 'Theepetty Chandran'. The film scripted by T.A Razaaq will be directed by the most promising director from the younger generation M.Padmakumar.
The film which is planned for Christmas will start by October.
M.Padmakumar became famous with his films like Ammakilikoodu, Vargam and Vasthavam. This is the first time he is associating with a Superstar.

Alibhai Completed
Thursday, August 2, 2007 | AJ

The shooting of Shaji Kailas 'Alibhai' with Mohanlal has completed.
This action thriller's climax sequences were shot last week at Binny mills in Chennai. The shoot also captured news as Mohanlal met with a slight injury from an air gun that was used in the final sequences by the villain.The film is aimed at the mass.It will have terrific punch lines, item song, and spellbinding action scenes to satisfy his fans for Onam.The script is written by T.A Shahid,music by Alex Paul and editing by Don Max.Antony Perumbavoor,the producer of 'Alibhai' is planning to make a big release on August 15 with simultaneous opening in Mumbai, Chennai, Delhi and Bangalore, along with Kerala.

Mohanlal again in double role
Wednesday, August 1, 2007 | AJ

After a couple of years, Mohanlal is again attempting a double role in the next film by Joshy. The film in the scripts of A.K Sajan, is produced by Sasi Ayyanchira in the banner of Sree Uthrattathi Films Pvt Ltd.This new untitled film will be an immediate project of director Joshi.Joshy has recently created a few hits with Mohanlal including Naran.

Mammootty in Kutty Sranku
Wednesday, August 1, 2007 | AJ

Mammootty playing central character in Shaji N Karuns next film'Kutty Sranku',who becomes the fancy of three females.The film which is presented through the viewpoints of the female leads will be scripted by Farooq Dhondy, who shot to fame with the scripts of The Bandit Queen.World famous cinematographer Renato Berta will be the cameraman.The film which has music by Illayaraja.The film is planned to start its first schedule by the mid of December.

Cognizant opens devp centre in Kerala
Wednesday, August 1, 2007 | AA

IT and BPO services provider Cognizant Technology Solutions Corporation on Wednesday opened its first development centre in Kerala here.

In the first phase, 400 professionals would be recruited and trained for the 37,000 square feet new facility housed at the SEZ notified Muthoot IT park, Cognizant Vice-Chairman Lakshmi Narayanan told reporters here.

Later, the capacity would be increased to 800 professionals.

The company has taken up 74,000 square feet space in the park.

Cognizant had recently announced plans to expand its infrastructure in India at an investment of about 200 million dollars by the end of 2008 on land acquisition, facilities construction and furnishing.

The centre would initially focus on information, media and entertainment industry and gradually expand to other industries including financial services, healthcare, manufacturing, retail and telecommunications in the coming years.

The company expects to build new fully-owned techno- complexes to increase existing campus footprint in India with the addition of over three million square feet and capacity of over 39,000 new employees, Narayanan, who is also Nasscom chairman, said.

Rajasenan with Dileep
Wednesday, August 1, 2007 | AJ

Rajasenan has announced his new film with Dileep. The film titled 'Romeo' will start immediately after Blessy's Calcutta News.Gopika will be the heroine of this film which will be a year end release.After Pachakkuthira the lucky pair Dileep and Gopika will come together again for this movie scripted and produced by Rafi Mecartin.Supposedly a romantic entertainer, the movie would feature Dileep in a different makeup. The actor had earlier been part of Rajasenan's Darling Darling.

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