Tamilnadu expatriates protest against the airfare Thursday, June 30, 2005 | AY
Tamil expatriates working in Gulf countries have protested against the high cost of air travel to Tamil Nadu and criticise what they call preferential treatment to Keralites by airlines. ''There are nearly 4,00,000 Tamil workers in the Emirates who cannot afford to travel to see their families even once in two years, as the airfare is often more than thrice their monthly earnings. They said fares to Chennai, Coimbatore and Trichy are different despite them being only 300 km from each other and there are only two airlines that touch Trichy and only one to Coimbatore. FGT is now planning to submit a memorandum to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and chief minister Jayaram Jayalalithaa.
Tamil expatriates protest against the airfare Thursday, June 30, 2005 | AY
Tamil expatriates working in Gulf countries have protested against the high cost of air travel to Tamil Nadu and criticise what they call preferential treatment to Keralites by airlines. ''There are nearly 4,00,000 Tamil workers in the Emirates who cannot afford to travel to see their families even once in two years, as the airfare is often more than thrice their monthly earnings. They said fares to Chennai, Coimbatore and Trichy are different despite them being only 300 km from each other and there are only two airlines that touch Trichy and only one to Coimbatore. FGT is now planning to submit a memorandum to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and chief minister Jayaram Jayalalithaa.
Film festival for disabled Thursday, June 30, 2005 | AY
From coming July 7th, there is to be a special film festival for disabled people at the chennai's anand theatre. 5 films are to be screened daily for a span of 5 days. Such a film festival will be and should be very inspiring to the disabled. Films from America, Russia, Germany, Japan, Australia, France and Italy will be featured during the festival. Some of the eminent personalities who will participate in the function include Mani Ratnam, Amitabh Bachchan, his wife Jaya Bachchan, Adoor Gopalakrishnan, Rajiv Menon, Nandita Das and Revathi.
Kallan Wednesday, June 29, 2005 | AY
After 'Ponniyin Selvan,' A M Ratham is producing film 'Kallan.' His elder son Jothikrishna who directed 'Enakku 20 Unakku 18' is director of the film and younger son Ravikrishna is hero. He has 2 heroines in the film. Tamanna and Eleana are both newcomers. Jothikrishna writes the screenplay and directs the film, Viji writes the dialogues, and music is composed by Yuvan Shankar Raja, who is a hot favorite with the youth. Set for a Pongal release, the pooja took place at the Kalasa Sound Studios.
Padhavi Paduthum Paadu Wednesday, June 29, 2005 | AY
Padhavi Paduthum Paadu is in the line of films on nefarious sandalwood smuggler Veerappan and his clashes with politicians. 'Padhavi Paduthum Paadu' is about how a forest brigand punishes the land brigands or politicians. Ranjith is well suited to play the role of the forest don. His big moustache and arrogant laughter are in keeping with the character. Tughlak Sathya's dialogues take a clear dig at the present political scenario, but some of the dialogues are too long. Pyramid Natarajan is fabulous as the politician. There's nothing special to mention about the music, camera or execution of the film.
Forest brigand Ranjith kidnaps the ex chief minister Ravichandran, takes him away into the forest and demands a huge ransom for his release. The present chief minister Pyramid Natarajan is only too happy to have Ravichandran out of his way and makes no effort to secure his release. There's a sudden twist that Ranjith staged the Ravichandran kidnapping and it was all a drama.
Katrullavarai Wednesday, June 29, 2005 | AY
Director Radha Bharati who introduced Prashanth to films 15 years ago in 'Vaikaasi Porandhaachu,' returns to direction after a long gap doing "Katrullavarai". A star cast of Jai Akash, Pranati, Suresh, Madhupriya, R Sundarrajan, Vijaykumar, Vennira Aadai Murthy, Ambika, Kirtana, Delhi Ganesh and Vadivelu is seen in this movie. Its the story of an actress attacked by some unsocial elements and the hero rescues her. 'Kaatrulla Varai' comes to theatres in July.
D Viswanathan- new Anna varsity VC Tuesday, June 28, 2005 | AY
Dr D Viswanathan, Professor of Mechanical Engineering, Head, Central Workshop, College of Engineering, Anna University, is the new Vice-Chancellor of the University. A Raj Bhavan communique today said Dr Viswanathan would hold office for a period of three years from the date of assuming office as Vice-Chancellor.
CM justifies her disagreement of the project Tuesday, June 28, 2005 | AY
AIADMK General Secretary and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa will not attend the foundation stone laying ceremony for the Rs 2,400 crore Sethu Samudram Canal Project (SSCP) at Madurai on July two, on the ground that all environment concerns had been neglected. Alleging that Mr Baalu had shown scant regard for the environmental concerns right from the beginning, Ms Jayalalithaa said he ought to remember that he was playing with the lives of lakhs of poor people, including the fishermen of Tamil Nadu. She said she was keen that the SSCP should be implemented, but only after all genuine environmental concerns were properly addressed.
Nayanthara in Bollywood Monday, June 27, 2005 | AY
Nayantara made her debut in 'Manasin Akkarai' opposite hero Jayaram. She has also made her presence in many tamil films with Sarath Kumar, Rajini, S J Surya, Surya, Simbu. The Nayantara wind is blowing in the North as well. Eminent director Rajkumar Santoshi has invited Nayantara to act in his film. Either Salman Khan or Hritik Roshan will play her hero in the film.
Enterance exams stay Monday, June 27, 2005 | AY
The Madras High Court on Monday quashed Tamil Nadu Government's recent order abolishing Common Entrance Test (CET) for admissions to professional courses in the State. Regarding the improvement examination, the matter is a policy decision of the Government and the court said that it would not interfere as it was a benefit given to the students. On June 9, a state government notification had abolished Common Entrance Test and improvement examination with immediate effect.
Second plant of Sundaram Clayton set up Sunday, June 26, 2005 | AY
Sundaram Clayton Ltd (SCL), a leading auto component manufacturer and the first Indian company to receive the prestigious Deming Prize, today inaugurated its new state-of-the art manufacturing plant, built at a cost of Rs.58 crore at suburban Ambattur. The new plant will manufacture air brake systems for the commercial vehicles. The capacity of the new plant is expected to be 150,000 brake systems per year.
Railways paying a price Sunday, June 26, 2005 | AY
The recent hike in the prices of diesel will result in an additional burden of Rs.325 crore to the Indian Railways, Minister of State for Railways, R Velu said. Velu said the second terminal of the Central Railway Station would be put up at the adjacent Salt Quarters area at a cost of Rs.90 crore. Seven platforms in the Central Railway Station will be upgraded at a cost of Rs.one crore soon.
Meera Jasmine's projects Saturday, June 18, 2005 | APA
The Tamil version of Kasthuriman is completed by Meera amidst financial troubles now and she is now busy shooting for Pokkisham being directed by Cheran. There is a film being done by Lingu Swami whose earlier movie ‘Run’ (Madhavan and Meera) was a hit. Her Telugu film ‘Bhadra’ is also doing well at the box office.
Skin care earns big bucks Saturday, June 18, 2005 | AY
Acne scar removal, face rejuvenating, non-surgical facelifts are in demand in Tamil Nadu and surprisingly, 30 per cent of the clients at Kaya Skin Clinics are men. Since it began in December 2002, Kaya now has 32 skin clinics across India and plans to increase it to 50. Its success in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka is largely due to the presence of IT and BPO firms. It's a new concept in cosmetic dermatology and in a city that's often seen as being conservative, it has become extremely popular.
Salem steel gets modernized Saturday, June 18, 2005 | AY
Ram Vilas Paswan said that the centre will invest Rs 600 crore on modernising the Salem steel plant in Tamil Nadu. Paswan said shares of the plant would not be sold to private parties. Several political parties in the state had been urging the centre to give up any plan of privatisation of Salem steel plant.
Puthiya Tamizhagam gets a new leader Saturday, June 18, 2005 | AY
Puthiya Tamizhagam party in Tamilnadu is heading towards a split, as the office bearers removed its founder president, Dr Krishnaswamy. The rebels alleged that Dr Krishnaswamy was calling shots in the party in an autocratic manner and claimed that he showed little interest in the main agenda of uplifting the downtrodden people. The general council meeting, will be held within 20 days, would elect a new leader. The rebels further alleged that the party, on an avereage had been spending more than Rs three lakh every month on him and he had never provided a clear account on the expenditure incurred.
Tata tele launches tamil station Friday, June 17, 2005 | AY
Tata Teleservices, a private telecom service provider ,announced the launch of an interactive Tamil voice station on its 'Walky' phone and mobile. The multi-access entertainment voice portal, which offers content in the area of movies, can be accessed on Tata Indicom mobile and Walky. To access this interactive Tamil voice station, subscribers of Tata Indicom mobile and Walky need to dial 12900 and can instantaneously avail of a host of voice services such as popular songs, comedy clips, news and interviews.
Unarchigal Friday, June 17, 2005 | AY
Shakeela, the sex bomb whose Malayalam films created box office records, plays a character role in a Tamil film 'Unarchigal'. She comes as a sex therapist in the film. Kunal and Sreeman play equally important roles in the film. As the title suggest, the story would focus on the sexual feelings of a married woman, an unmarried woman and a college girl. Radha Ravi, Ranjitha, Abitha, Manorama, Vijaya Chandrika and Suji Bala play the supporting cast. Besides producing and directing, K. Rajan pens the story and screenplay himself.
Karunanidhi clarifies charges made on him Friday, June 17, 2005 | AY
DMK chief M Karunanidhi today described as a ''blatant lie', the charge that Dalit leader Thol Thirumavalavan made on him that he was using Congress leader and Union Minister E V K S Elangovan to run down the pro-Tamil campaign. He said Mr Thirumavalavan's statement was aimed at strengthening Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, and to create a division among the constituents of the DMK-led Democratic Progressive Alliance. The DMK chief clarified that he had nothing to do with Mr Elangovan's remarks to protect Tamil language and culture.
Non Resident's raise money Friday, June 17, 2005 | APA
Distressed by the news of Tsunami, an NRI association got collected $100,000 (nearly Rs. 45 lakh) througha tsunami relief dinner hosted in US early this year. NRIs under the banner of Association of Indians in New York wanted to construct a small hospital in a remote village of coastal areas of Tamil Nadu, which was devastated by the tsunami. Many of the NRI's also flew to Tamil Nadu to followup the matter. An agreement was signed last week to construct a hospital at Sulerikattukuppan village, 48 kilometres from Chennai.
South African company to bring in 82 crores Friday, June 17, 2005 | Editor
Sanlam Life Insurance Ltd of South Africa has been allowed to bring in Rs. 82.50 crore to assist its Indian partner, Sriram Life Insurance Company of Chennai, in the acquisition of shares of a Hyderabad-based company engaged in life insurance. The Finance Minister, P. Chidambaram, on Tuesday approved the proposal along with 17 others accounting for a total FDI inflow of Rs 444.80 crores on the recommendations of the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB).
Use generators from 10 to midnight, says TNEB Thursday, June 16, 2005 | AY
The Tamil Nadu electricity board is asking high power consuming establishments like software firms and hotels in the city to shift to generators during peak hours (10 PM to midnight) to ensure uninterrupted power supply in residential areas. The sudden shortage is due to the increased consumption and frequent damages to the old cables. But with the summer at its peak, most of the middle-class families in the city are now going in for ACs. Families having more members have more ACs too. As one AC’s power requirement is 40 times that of a fan, old cables will not withstand the load, said an official. Unless service cables were replaced on an emergency basis, problems would persist.
Pak cricketers to be trained in Chennai Thursday, June 16, 2005 | AY
The MRF pace foundation reputation is flying high. Now , the Pakistan team which already has put a mark in fast bowling department is sending to India, three of its Test players and an under 19 player to get trained in MRF. The Pakistan Cricket Board today confirmed by a fax message to the MRF Pace foundation that Mohammad Khalil, Mohammad Asif, Riaz Afridi, who were capped last season and Mohammad Irshad, who represented Pakistan in under-19 international matches would join the academy here for training under Lillee from June 25 to July 6, T A Sekar, chief coach at the foundation, told newspersons.
Suez Canal Authority to support Sethusamudram Thursday, June 16, 2005 | AY
The people behind the enigmatic ' Suez Canal' has agreed to offer their technical support to the Sethusamudram Canal project in the southern coast of India. The pact will be between Suez Canal Authority and the government of India will be signed June 19 at Cairo in Egypt, N.K. Raghupathy, chairman of the Tuticorin Port Trustwhich , who is also the head of the Sethusamudram Corporation Ltd which under takes this prestigious project. The technical know how from the Suez authorities will be a big boost to the Indian projectwhich is aimed to build a shipping lane, which will cut across the Palk Strait near Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu and connect the Gulf of Mannar to the Bay of Bengal, there by reducing ship movements by a minimum of 44 nautical miles.
Chinna Tuesday, June 14, 2005 | AY
Successful actor Arjun and director Sundar C is coming out with a yet another romantic action film "Chinna". Sneha plays opposite Arjun. Kiran appears for an item-number. Srinivasa Raju produces the film. Arjun plays a notorious dada who gets reformed after falling in love with Sneha. Dina has scored the music. Prasad cranks the camera while Thalapathi Dinesh is the stunt Choreographer. The film which is shot in Dhanushkodi, Rameswaram, Ooty, Goa and Chennai will hit the theatres at the end of this month.
Anand triumphs in Leon chess Tuesday, June 14, 2005 | AY
Viswanathan Anand staged a superb rally to score a comprehensive 2.5-1.5 victory over FIDE champion Rustam Kasimdzhanov of Uzbekistan to win the 18th Magistral Ciudad de Leon Chess tournament here. Anand, trailing 0-1 after losing the first game, won the second and fourth games and drew the third board to attest his superiority once again in the rapid version of the game. The victory in the fourth game for the Indian ace was a real treasured one as he accomplished a fine task in the final game with a piece sacrifice that resulted in a winning endgame almost instantly.
Scorching heat in Chennai Tuesday, June 14, 2005 | AY
Chennai continues to reel under severe heatwave conditions as the temperature crossed the 40 degree celsius mark again today. A maximum temperature of 40.3 degree was recorded in the city today while in the Meenambakkam Airport area the mercury touched 40.6 Degree. The city recorded this year's highest temperature on May ten when the mercury shot up to 41.3 Degree, while June three was the second hottest day recording 41 Degree.
Chithiram Pesuthadi Monday, June 13, 2005 | AY
Produced by Dreambridge Production (P) Ltd, Sunil and Bhavana, make their debut in Tamil in 'Chithiram Pesuthadi', directed by debutant Mishkin. Story centres on the underworld, a don and his dreaded henchman, and the henchman's lady love. While 'Kadhal' Dandapani plays the don, Sunil plays Thiru, the henchman. The supporting cast has 'Pithamagan' Mahadevan, Ravi Prakash, Madan, Ajayan Bala, Singara Sukumaran, Asmi and Sangita. The film's music is by Sunderbabu. The film, scripted and directed by Mishkin, is to be shot at locations in Chennai. Goa, Kudremukh and Mangalore.
Petrol pumps going to strike Monday, June 13, 2005 | AY
Petroleum retail outlet owners throughout the country have threatened to go on a 24-hour strike from midnight of June 19 if their commission of five per cent on the invoice value is not increased. The Federation of All India Petroleum Traders (FAIPT) has also threatened to go on an indefinite strike from midnight of July 17 if their demands for a higher commission are not met.
Case filed against DMK chief Monday, June 13, 2005 | AY
The Tamil Nadu government today initiated defamation proceedings against DMK president M Karunanidhi who had made defamatory speech on November 22 last year, against the functioning of the government, saying that governemnt had political, personal and sinister motives behind the 'delayed' arrest of Kanchi seer Sri Jayendra Saraswathi in the Sankararaman murder case. Civil suit stated that remarks of the former chief minister was to deliberately create a bad name for the government.
Ullam Ketkume Sunday, June 12, 2005 | AY
Cinematographer-director Jeeva adapts a straight, simple narrative style using just flashcuts to depict the lives and loves of his five protagonists in "Ullam Ketkume". It's the nostalgic looking back of five friends Priya, Eman, Pooja, Shyam and Irene as they converge on the marriage of friend Eman, a popular cricketer, when the film opens. It's commendable that Jeeva has opted for the more healthy fun and the sensitive part of campus life to focus on. Shyam, Eman, Priya, Pooja and Irene are collegemates and friends moving around in a group. While Shyam, the flirtatious one, finds himself drawn to the traditional Priya, Pooja, boisterous and tomboyish,has aliking for Shyam. Eman and Irene are also drawn to each other but all of them part after college and meet at the wedding. Jeeva's camera provides some colourful visuals and together with Harris Jairaj's peppy numbers adds to the film's entertainment value.
DMK president claims Advani's resignation a drama Sunday, June 12, 2005 | AY
Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) President M Karunanidhi today described BJP President L K Advani's remarks on Pakistan's Founder Leader Mohammed Ali Jinnah and his subsequent resignation from the party post as 'a drama enacted by the BJP to sow the seeds of communal hatred in the country.' He said that the people should preserve communal harmony and extend their support to the secular government (Congress-led United Progressive Alliance Government, in which, the DMK is a constituent) at the Centre. The entire episode, right from Mr Advani praising Mr Jinnah, the criticism by the Sangh Parivar, Mr Advani's resignation as BJP President, party leaders pleading for withdrawal of his resignation, the BJP Parliamentary Board adopting a resolution, accusing Mr Jinnah of leading a communal agitation for Pakistan and finally Mr Advani's withdrawing his resignation, had a background and people should ponder over this.
New Achievement in reprocessing technology Sunday, June 12, 2005 | AY
Atomic scientists today achieved a new international benchmark in reprocessing advanced carbide fuels at high burn-up levels, marking a major milestone in development of reprocessing technology in India. The unique Plutonium-Uranium mixed carbide fuel has been reprocessed in the Fast Breeder Test Reactor (FBTR) which has undergone a burn-up of one lakh Mega Watt per days per tonne,'' Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) Secretary and Atomic Energy Commission Chairman Dr Anil Kakodkar told reporters in kalpakkam today.
Thotti Jeya Saturday, June 11, 2005 | AY
V.Z. Durai who has been directing films with soft love stories directs "Thotti Jeya" an action-oriented film through this movie. Simbu, Gopika is csated in this movie. Yuwan Shankar Raja had scored the music for this film. How love melts a rowdy, is the story of 'Thotti Jeya'. They have filmed most part of the film in Kolkatta.
Azhagu Nilayam Saturday, June 11, 2005 | AY
Rajaji, who directed "Yes Madam", directs a horror film named "Azhagu Nilayam". Vindhya, who made her debut as a heroine in "Sangamam" is casted as a woman fighting against evil. A new hero will be cast opposite Vindhya. Vincent Ashokan, Muthu Kaalai, Vinu Chakravarthy and Ponnambalam are the supporting cast. Sabesh - Murali scores the music and Devi Charan cranks the camera. V. Anand produces the film under the banner A.K.R. Studios.
Kaun Banega Crorepati-2 Saturday, June 11, 2005 | AY
Kaun Banega Crorepati, the quiz show that created history on Indian television, is making a triumphant comeback on Star Plus, as KBC-2. KBC, in its second season, as KBC2, gives an opportunity for Tamil viewers to take part in the contest by telecasting the entry question in Tamil on Vijay TV till 19th June 2005. All one has to do is watch the entry question on Vijay TV, choose the right option from among the four options and then dial 190-424-7827 followed with their option number. Alternatively viewers using Airtel Mobiles can SMS their options to 646.
MoU signed between NLC and TNEB Saturday, June 11, 2005 | AY
The public sector Neyveli Lignite Corporation (NLC) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Tamil Nadu Electricity Board (TNEB) for setting up a 1,000 MW power project in Tuticorin on a joint venture basis. The coal-based power project is being set up at a cost of Rs 4,000 crore. NLC holds 89 per cent stake in the joint venture, while the remaining stake is held by TNEB. NLC had posted a profit after tax of Rs 1,215 crore for the year ended March 31, 2005, compared to Rs 1,143 crore in the previous year.
Ramco as a gold certified partner Saturday, June 11, 2005 | AY
Ramco Systems Limited which is a part of the USD 300 million Ramco Group is a global provider of enterprise solutions and services to 1000+ customer locations across 40 countries, serving 100,000+ Users. Ramco Systems has announced that it has attained Gold Certified Partner status in the Microsoft Partner Program with a competency in ISV and Advanced Infrastructure Solutions, recognising Ramco System's expertise and total impact in the technology marketplace. Microsoft Gold Certified Partners receive a rich set of benefits, including access, training and support, giving them a competitive advantage in the marketplace. As one of the requirements for attaining Gold Certified Status, Ramco Systems had to declare a Microsoft Competency.
Kanchi Sankaracharya questioned in another case Saturday, June 11, 2005 | AY
Kanchi Sankaracharya, Sri Jayendra Saraswati, was today questioned in connection with a land deal case filed with the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the Sankararaman murder case in which he is one of the accused. The two Kanchi Sankaracharyas had returned to the ashram only yesterday after a gap of several months.
Rough weather returns a flight back to chennai Saturday, June 11, 2005 | AY
An Alliance Air flight from here to Port Blair returned to base after being airborne for about 90 minutes as it could not land at Port Blair airport this morning due to heavy rains there, airport sources said. The flight with 114 passengers and crew took off from here at 8.15 am and returned to base around 9.45 am, the sources said.
Known financial retailer opens office in chennai Saturday, June 11, 2005 | AY
CentrumDirect Ltd, a financial retailer and wholly-owned subsidiary of BSE-listed Centrum Capital Ltd., today opened its regional office in Chennai and announced plans to open 15 new branches across the country in the coming months. The company would offer all retail investment and foreign exchange needs under one roof. Services include savings and investment products, life and non-life products, pension plans, stock broking and overseas travel insurance. Besides retail outlets, Centrum pioneered the setting up of one-stop desks in major multinational corporations like Intel, Siemens, Wipro etc to render advisory services in both investment, portfolio management and to facilitate foreign exchange requirements of travelling employees.
Growth in auto , textile sectors Friday, June 10, 2005 | AY
A survey conducted says that the automotive and textiles industries in Tamil Nadu reported growth in profits in fiscal 2004-05 but high input costs have cast a shadow on the performance of the auto sector. The survey showed the textiles industry posted 10 percent growth in profits in 2004-05 due to higher volumes. The textile industry has increased production and capacity utilization between 10 and 15 percent. With the lifting of quotas, the industry is expecting 15 percent growth in sales in 2005-06," the survey said. The IT industry posted a 25 percent increase in profits. The chemicals and fertilizer industry has posted a 10 percent growth in profits in 2004-05. The cement industry in Tamil Nadu posted only marginal growth in 2004-05.
Ninaikkatha Neramillai Wednesday, June 8, 2005 | AY
For the first time in Indian Cinema, a pair of twins will be stealing the show in a new tamil film "Ninaikkatha Neramillai". They play the female leads for hero Mohan Kumar in this film. A love story, the film is produced by R S Nathan and Pollachi S Padmanabhan for their banner R. World Mother Films. While Selvaraja pens the story and dialogue, screenplay and direction is by M Sridhar. The film has cinematography by Abdul K. Rehman and music by Roshan Kishore. The supporting cast has Rajeev, Rajesh, Sukumar, Shakeela, Haja Sharif, Sabita Anand and Pandu.
DPA says AIADMK applications be rejected Wednesday, June 8, 2005 | AY
The DMK-led Democratic Progressive Alliance (DPA) in Tamil Nadu today demanded that the Election Commission reject all the 13 lakh applications, submitted by the AIADMK workers for inclusion in the voters list. He also took the pride of saying that it was due to the pressure from the opposition parties that the TN goverment decided to abolish the entrance tests for admission to professional colleges. The meeting also decided to stage demonstrations in front of district collectorates on June 16, demanding reinstatement of road safety workers whose services were terminated by the government.
Pay smart scheme Wednesday, June 8, 2005 | AY
Indian Airlines has now extended its ‘Pay Smart’ scheme, under which air travellers and holidaymakers have the option of deferred payment of the cost of the ticket by Equated Monthly Instalments (EMI), to Standard Chartered Bank Card Holders too. All international and domestic holiday packages, discounted fares and special fares could be purchased on 10 EMIs with a down payment of one EMI, through any of these cards. For instance, a three nights and four days holiday package from Chennai to Singapore inclusive of airfares, hotel accommodation, air port transfers and breakfast would cost only Rs 1,857, while an EMI for a similar package form Chennai to Bangkok would be just Rs 1,700 and from Chennai to Goa be Rs 1,420.
New serial on screen Tuesday, June 7, 2005 | AY
AASAI, a new serial is all set to hit television screens on June 6, 2005 on Vijay TV. Produced by AVM productions, this show airs at 1930 hrs (Mon-Thu). The serial is about the different facets of any relationship. An engaging story, about love, heart-break, emotions and sacrifice all intertwined into one whole. The serial has a popular cast like Prem, Vanaja, Rindhya and Vadivukarasi among others
New policy introduced Tuesday, June 7, 2005 | AY
Doing away with entrance examinations for admission to professional institutions for undergraduate courses, the Tamil Nadu government today announced a new policy from the coming academic year (2005-06) under which admissions would be made purely on the basis of marks secured in the Plus Two examinations. This would provide students and their parents a simple and transparent system, which would make education meaningful and create a platform for real growth and development.
Australian support sought for LNG terminal Tuesday, June 7, 2005 | AY
Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer, who called on Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa at the Secretariat today, said the relationship between his country and India is on a 'new upturn'. Downer said with his country strong in liquid natural gas (LNG), he would make use of his good offices to make available Australian expertise in this field to establish an LNG terminal at the Ennore port, proposed by the Tamil Nadu government. Anna University could establish close links with Australian universities, CM said, for which Downer agreed, an official press release said. She sought Australian help for innovative mining techniques to exploit the large lignite deposits in the state.
"Anniyan" atlast going to be released Monday, June 6, 2005 | AY
Anniyan, the magnum opus of director Shankar which took almost two years to complete will hit theatres on 17th June, 2005. This bilingual Tamil –Telugu (Aparichithudu in Telugu) has Vikram and Sada in the lead. The promotion of the film which started almost a month ago has created great interest among the masses.
Forget espressos and cappuchinos Monday, June 6, 2005 | AY
A new variety of coffee is going to be a hit soon which would probably be called "Monkey Coffee". Monkeys living in the Megamalai hills of tamil nadu relish a certain fruit found commonly in the wild and coffee plantations in the neighbourhood. The seeds found in monkey excreta, and the fruits, were sent for a laboratory test. To everybodys surprise, it turned out to be another coffee variety. A Board official said that the variety was "most suited for instant coffee" and could prove to be "a quality product". According to indigenous medicine experts, the monkeys eat this particular fruit when they suffer from some infection or breathing trouble.
No emergence of third front - INL Monday, June 6, 2005 | AY
Stating that it did not foresee the possibility of a third front emerging at the national level, the Indian National League (INL) today said such an arrangement might however be possible in some states. INL national president Mohammad Sulaiman said The DMK, an important constituent of UPA, should prove its secular credentials by registering this demand of ordering a CBI probe into the 2002 'genocide' in Gujarat within Parliament and the government. Sulaiman said the INL demanded setting up of a full-fledged commission with clear-cut terms and references under the Commissions Act for the purpose. He also urged the Tamil Nadu government to accord statutory status to the state Minority Commission.
Mathrubhoomi - A Nation without Women Sunday, June 5, 2005 | AY
The screening of the Tamil version of Mathrubhoomi which comes with the tagline ‘A Nation without Women’ presented by Boney Kapoor and Sridevi Boney Kapoor, took place yesterday. Quoted as ‘one of the year’s top ten films in the world’ by TIME magazine, Mathrubhoomi deals with gender discrimination and female infanticide in our country. Boney felt that the subject of the film is such that it should be viewed by a larger audience, hence it was being dubbed in 5 regional languages as well as in French apart from the original Hindi. The film appears crude at times and character Kalki, the ‘only woman’ cast in the film is depicted as a sex object. The plot deals with the sruggles of a father to find brides for his five sons in a village, which has no women and drives home the point that absence of women inevitably leads to the humiliation of men.
Ilayaraja's 'Thiruvasagam in Symphony' soon released Sunday, June 5, 2005 | AY
Maestro Ilayaraja's 'Thiruvasagam in Symphony', a musical rendering of the epic Tamil verses, will be released here June 30, and will be followed up by a global release in the US July 2. The massive international project, which is estimated to have cost over Rs 70 lakh, looks forward to international support in a bid to at least partially recover the investment.
Gift by CM to quadraplets and triplets Sunday, June 5, 2005 | AY
Following representations from Tamilselvan and Kalaimani of Cuddalore and Selvam and Sarasvathi of Madurai to CM, seeking financial assistance to bring up the children, Jayalalithaa released Rs 2.5 lakh for the quadruplets born in Pathirikuppam in Cuddalore district and another 2.5 lakh for the triplets born in Vettianpet in Madurai district. A State Government Press release said while female childen would get Rs one lakh each, male children would get Rs 50,000 each. The amount released from the Chief Minister’s general relief fund would be be invested in the Tamil Nadu Transport Development Finance Corporation and the interest used for taking care of the children.
Childrens chess contest Saturday, June 4, 2005 | AY
The 19th National (Under-9) Boys and Girls Chess championship will be held here from June 4 to 13. The Championship will be decided by a 11 round Swiss event. The tournament, offering a prize money of Rs 52,000, is jointly organised by India Bank and Vel's College of Arts and Science. Tamil Nadu has 40 entries and will face stiff challenge from Andhra Pradesh. The winner and runner-up from both boys and girls categories will represent India in the Asian Under 8 championship to be held in 2006 and also the World Championship scheduled to be held in Russia in 2006.
Ullam Ketkumae Saturday, June 4, 2005 | AY
"Ullam Ketkumae", the first directional venture of cinematographer Jeeva, which was not released due to financial problems for almost two years has finally hit the theatres. The movie features Shaam, Arya, Asin, Pooja and Laila. This was the debut film for Asin, Pooja and Arya. Jeeva has penned the story and screenplay. Harris Jeyaraj has scored the music.
2 tamil films voted as nominee for national award Saturday, June 4, 2005 | AY
The South Indian Film Chamber of Commerce has recommended 4 films under the "wholesome entertainment category" segment for National Award, which includes Cheran’s "Autograph" and Jeyam Ravi’s "M Kumaran S/O Mahalakshmi" in Tamil. Bharath starrer "4 The People" in Malayalam and one film from Kannada have also been recommended from South.
Veeranna Saturday, June 4, 2005 | AY
Napolean, after his latest movie "Ayya" is now all set in his next venture "Veeranna" where he gets to do a dual role as father and son. Preethi Varma pairs opposite the younger Napolean. P. Kalanidhi debuts as a director in the film. Leading Malayalam actress Sheela plays the negative role and Vadivelu provides comedy. P. Kalaimani pens the story and screenplay. G.N. Dass, M. Nehru and G. Ramdoss produce the film under the banner G.N.T. Vision International. The film is shot in Chennai, Ambasamudram and Ooty.
Kavaratti atlast quenches their thirst Saturday, June 4, 2005 | AY
Inhabitants of the picturesque coral island of Kavaratti in Lakshadweep never had enough potable water from local sources to sustain themselves till May 23, 2005 when a 100,000 litres per day capacity Low Temperature Thermal Desalination (LTTD) Plant was dedicated to the people of the island. Built at a cost of about Rs. 5 crores, the Plant was designed and set up by the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), a Chennai based R & D institute under the Department of Ocean Development in a record time of 90 days. The LLTD process uses a combination of warm sea water at about 28-30 degrees Celsius and deep sea cold water of about 13 degrees Celsius, pumped from a depth of 350 metres.
MDR-TB Resistance in India Saturday, June 4, 2005 | AY
Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) has emerged as a possible threat to global tuberculosis control efforts in recent years. Biological accounts are insufficient to understand the emergence and dynamics of drug resistance. Emerging anti-TB drug resistance in India deserves serious attention as India's rate is highest among 22 high-burden countries. We fear a growing threat to public health that will draw heavily on human and monetary resources. Nevertheless, studies undertaken in Tamilnadu state by the TB Research Center during the period 1997-1999 revealed a prevalence of MDR-TB of 3% (14); surveillance of anti-TB drug resistance in two districts of South India - North Arcot and Raichur - revealed levels of MDR-TB among new cases of 2.8% and 1.5%. Both primary and acquired drug resistance can be considered to be the result of inadequate treatment, substandard drug use, use of inappropriate drug combination preparations, or "mono therapy.
New mothers on screen Saturday, June 4, 2005 | AY
Roja, Devayani, Seetha and Sukanya have sizzled on the screen as leading heroines. Once their market as heroine comes down, they are offered the roles of a sister, sister-in-law, mother, why even grandmother roles. Roja, Devayani, Seetha and Sukanya are now voluntarily offering to do mother roles on one condition that they want to be mothers to young heroes!
Mani Ratnam thrilled Saturday, June 4, 2005 | AY
American magazine Time compiled a list of the top 100 films from 1927 to 2002 and the fact that Mani Ratnam's film 'Nayagan' made it to this list is a matter of great prestige and honor. Mani Ratnam says that a particular film is able to touch the hearts of the audience due to the the sincere efforts of not only the director and actors, but the music composer and technicians as well, go into the making of a good film.
New record by the state police and fast track courts Saturday, June 4, 2005 | AY
The Tamilnadu Police and the Fast Track Courts in the State have created new records in ensuring justice. While the police solved murder cases within a shortest period, the FTCs set a new record in pronouncing verdicts in a couple of cases recently. One Anbarasu was sentenced to life by the Fast Track Court-I, Chennai for murdering his wife, within 17 days of filing the FIR while one Venkatesh was given life-term by the Fast Track Court-IV for murdering a man within 16 days of committing the crime. Recently, Chief Minister announced an allocation of Rs 5 crore for the continued functioning of the Fast Track Courts in the State.
Jayakumar Royappa passes away Wednesday, June 1, 2005 | AY
Mr Jayakumar Royappa, a former member of the Indian Davis cup squad, died at his residence here on Sunday, following a heart attack. Condoling his death, Tamil Nadu Tennis Association (TNTA), in a message, said Mr Jayakumar, who had twice reached the second round at Wimbledon, once losing a close match to then World Number three Vitas Gemliatis. He had dedicated himself to the sport. He reached the pinnacle in the mid 70s when he won the National Hard court title which had earned him a berth in Indian Davis Cup team. On his retirement from active play, he coached in Cyprus and in Chennai.
Coastel security force coming up Wednesday, June 1, 2005 | AY
Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil said that the Centre would spend Rs 500 crore initially for setting up a coastal security force (CSF)where the coastal states will establish police stations in the coastal areas and these police personnel in each station would be provided with speed boats to patrol the coastline with cooperation of the Indian Coast Guard. At the exclusive economic zone, the navy will also lend a helping hand.
Centre not to interfere in cauvery issue Wednesday, June 1, 2005 | AY
Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil today declined to be involved on the issue of the Cauvery water dispute between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. He said that though Karnataka is constantly in touch with the Centre on the matter, we will leave it to the two states to discuss it.
Global pharma major signs pact with Alpharma Wednesday, June 1, 2005 | AY
Chennai-based Shasun Chemicals & Drugs Limited (Shasun), a global leader in API Manufacturing, especially in the Analgesics and Gastro Intestinal therapeutic groups, entered into an exclusive agreement with New Jersey-based Alpharma Inc (Alpharma), company with leadership positions in products for humans and animals and active presence active in more than 60 countries, that Shasun will develop and manufacture 10 generic formulations in specific dosage forms and strengths for exclusive distribution and marketing by Alpharma in the US and Europe. These 10 oral formulations fall under speciality, chronic therapeutic segments such as cardio-vascular (CVS) and central nervous system (CNS) categories. The current brand market size of these 10 products in the US and Europe aggregates to around US $ 20 billion.
TN among the 6 states selected for a new project Wednesday, June 1, 2005 | AY
The Union Ministry of Chemicals, Fertilisers and Steel has been contemplating to set up one or more petrochemical industrial estates and he finds Tamil Nadu as one among the six states identified for setting up of this project. Dalal Mat Mc Donalad has been appointed as the consultant for this project for which several thousand crores will be invested.
