Computer giant Dell opens production plant in Chennai Tuesday, July 31, 2007 | MP
Sriperumbudur (Tamil Nadu), July 31 (ANI): Dell, the world's second largest computer maker, has opened a manufacturing plant on the outskirts of Chennai to produce desktop computers aimed at Indian markets. The Dell assembly line at Sriperumbudur would have an initial capacity of 4,00,000 units, including its new Vostro range. Sip Thompson, Vice President World Wide Facilities, said Dell is eying India as a "significant" market. "We have been looking at India as an important part of our business for a long time, as we now start to manufacture our computers here. We will see the opportunities in India open up significantly," Thompson said. Vostro desktops will be priced at 22,900 rupees and above, while notebooks will be available at a basic price of 31,900 rupees and above. Dell is expected to invest 30 million dollars in the plant over the next five years. The plant would provide employment for 1000 people. It currently employs more than 13,000 people here across three business segments -- call centre operations, research and development activities, and computer and server sales. "We have already employed the first batch of 150 employees in Dell ICC of 150. This number will grow as the rest of other two factories in Asia and China," K.Y. Yong, General Manager Manufacturing Operations, said. Dell has been exploring various sale models in India. Its current purchases are available only by telephone or the Internet. In June, Dell broke from its 23-year-old global practice of direct sales to customers and started selling low-priced PCs at Wal-Mart Stores Inc. in North America. The company recently announced that it would soon start selling personal computers through Asian retail chains and stores. Although Dell had said it plans to cut about ten percent of its global workforce, the company is expected to increase its sales and marketing headcount in India significantly. (ANI)
Santhanam and Ganja Karupu appear as God Tuesday, July 31, 2007 | Nayan
The two Simbus in Tamil film industry are as different as chalk and cheese. One is a well known actor Silambarasan, the other is the non controversial soft spoken Simbudevan, the director. Simbudevan the director after the runway success of his Mel Brooks style historical comedy with Vadivels Imsai Arasan 23am Pulikesi is back with Arai En 305il Kadavul. It features two stand-up comedians, Santhanam and Ganja Karupu along with Prakash Raj who appears as God!
Bharatiraaja's Bommalattam audio released Tuesday, July 31, 2007 | Nayan
Bharatiraaja's Bommalattam audio which has music by Himesh Reshammaiya took place at Sathyam Cinemas. The audio was launched by K.Balachandar, who gave the first audio to Kamal Hassan, in the presence of the maestro Ilayaraja.There was camaraderie between KB, Bharatiraja, Ilayaraja and Kamal, as they regaled the audiences with stories of the roaring 70s and 80s, when they entered the industry and changed movie making in Tamil.
Shankar to make Robot with Shahrukh Khan Tuesday, July 31, 2007 | Nayan
Its official that Shankar is going to direct Shahrukh Khan in a Hindi film. Shankar is going to make his pet project Robot, a science fiction thriller which he was for years planning with Kamal Hassan. SRK had met Shankar, a few weeks back and firmed up the film which he will produce under his Red Chilies banner. SRKs Red Chilies had created history last week when they sold the all world rights of their under production Om Shanti Om for a whopping Rs 72 crore to Eros International.
S.J.Suryah next movie with telugu hero Tuesday, July 31, 2007 | Nayan
S.J Suryah is back to what he does best - directing other heroes! Yes, Suryah is going to direct a film for Pawan Kalyan, Telugu action hero and younger brother of Chiranjeevi! After the colossal failure of all his recent movies in Tamil as hero, Suryah was scouting for a producer to start a new venture. But with his last release Thirumahan, not even able to salvage the cost of its prints, nobody wanted even to talk to him!
I should satisfy before accepting new offers: Asin Tuesday, July 31, 2007 | Nayan
Story, screenplay, director, producer, hero, music director and cinematographer are the aspects I scrutinize before accepting new offers. If I am satisfied with the above, I will immediately give my call-sheet, declares soft spoken Asin. Her secret of success totally depended on this aspects....
Vadivelu triple role Tuesday, July 31, 2007 | Nayan
Its triple role for Vadivelu in Indiralohathil Na Azhagappan, acting as Lord Indira, Yamadharma Raja and an ordinary human Na Azhagappan.Three females were roped in for the film to pair Vadivelu, besides hundreds of carefully plucked junior artistes for the roles of celestial dancers.Though I got several offers to do the lead role after Imsai Arasan 23m Pulikesi, debutant Thambi Ramiahs story attracted me very much, since it has enough scope for a comedian like me to perform, says Vadivelu.Adding that producer Manickam Narayanan has invested heavily on grand sets for Indiralohathil Na Azhagappan, Vadivelu said, I am very much thrilled to act in three different roles. It takes more than two hours for me to wear rich costumes of mythological characters.
Namita is not attending star cultural event? Tuesday, July 31, 2007 | Nayan
The Kolywood Film Association has planned for a Star cultural event in Singapore and Malaysia.In order to comfort the Actors and Actresses who are to participate in the Star cultural event, the Producers Association has decided to grant one day permission to halt all the shootings on August 11th 2007.The Film Association is thinking over of banning Actors and Actresses especially Namitha and Gopika who are stubborn not to attend the Star Function.
Chennai dogs to get retirement benefits! Monday, July 30, 2007 | MP
Chennai, July 29 (ANI): Eleven-year-old Ponni, a Dobberman, and nine-year-old Oscar, a Labarador, who served Chennai Police squad as sniffer dogs, will not be spending their post-retirement days as domestic pets akin to their former colleagues, for they will get a daily maintenance compensation of rupees 44.
Both will now be leading a new relaxed life with long morning and evening walks, courtesy the Tamil Nadu government’s new retirement plan for the highly trained dogs that has made the difference.
Dharmaraj, Deputy Commissioner of Police in Chennai, said: "The government has issued an order stating that these dogs should not auctioned. Rather, they should be kept in the concerned kennel, in the dog squad itself.”
The two, the first duo under the new scheme, would get an annual pension rupees 18,860 (468 dollars) per year, which includes rupees 44 (about one dollar) a day for meal, rupees 200 (about five dollars) towards grooming charges and 400 (about 10 dollars) for vaccination.
The two gold-medallist duo would now lead a peaceful life in the same home, where they were brought up and trained, perhaps keeping an eye over the new recruits.
Ponni and Oscar would also get free medical check-up every three months along with the other dogs of the kennels.
John, a police inspector with the dog squad, said: "During retirement period, these dogs need not do any training or be on duty. But in the morning and evening we take them out for a walk. We do not keep them idle."
Started in 1957, the Chennai police dog squad presently houses 21 dogs. These dogs are thoroughly trained in detecting explosives, narcotics and come vary handy in peculiar circumstances. (ANI)
Mallika Sherawat in Dashaavtaram with Kamal Saturday, July 28, 2007 | Nayan
Dashaavtaram... As the movie name suggests, Kamal Haasan plays ten diverse roles in the movie and all news about his roles is yet to go public. These roles include a remarkable one as a fair old man, one as U.S. president Bush, one as an old female and one with a comical leer in Japanese make-up. Dashaavtaram, directed by K.S. Ravikumar, has roped in Himesh Reshammiya from Mumbai for music. Asin plays the heroine and there is the gorgeous Mallika Sherawat in the cast too.
GV Prakash catchy tunes in "Kireedam" Saturday, July 28, 2007 | Nayan
A R Rahman has appreciated his nephew and the up-and-coming- music composer G V Prakash for coming up with nice tunes in Kireedam. Rahman, who set a new trend in Indian film history and has been riding high since Roja, said, Prakash has got flair for good music. His music is interesting and is sure to go and rock people in the coming days.Prakashs songs in Veyyil, Oram Po and Kireedam have been topping the audio charts and he is receiving accolades from all quarters.
Genelia to work with Suriya in Vaaranam Aayiram Saturday, July 28, 2007 | Nayan
After Boys, Sachin and Chennai Kadhal, Genelia has been signed on opposite Suriya in Gautham Vasudeva Menon's Vaaranam Aayiram. Genelia is also to star with Jayam Ravi in Santosh Subramaniam. Both are big projects with big heroes.She is thrilled to work in Jayam Ravi-Raja combo for the actresses like Sada and Asin have touched the peak after working in their film.
Prakash Raj to produce Jeevan's film Saturday, July 28, 2007 | Nayan
Prakashraj.... The busy actor, who is playing the pivotal role in over half-a-dozen movies in Tamil and Telugu Cinema, is evincing keen interest in off-beat themes. Recently Cinematographer Jeevan had narrated Prakash Raj a village-based storyline. Impressed, Prakash Raj had decided to go ahead and produce the film.
Span of any actress in cinema world is 5 years only: Trisha Saturday, July 28, 2007 | Nayan
"I am aware that the span of any actress in cinema world is for more or less five years only. I never expected this I did not even know what has happened till my mother explained me the matter", said Actress Trisha. She has said she allowed fan clubs in her name only to do social service and not to fight with the fans of other actors. Meanwhile, Ajith fans had alleged that all unwanted things happened during the release of Ajith's film were at the handiwork of the fans of another actor.
Tamil Artists night at Singapore on 11th August Saturday, July 28, 2007 | Nayan
The SIFAA (South Indian Film Artistes Association) is going to organise a mega star night on 11 August in Singapore to commemorate the 75th year of Tamil cinema.Sarath Kumar said, "The star night in Singapore would be attended by all the members of the association. Captivating cultural shows would be staged as part of the event".
Nam Nadu on Sarath Kumar political party Saturday, July 28, 2007 | Nayan
Nam Nadu is a movie that dwells on political issues. Starring Sarath Kumar and Karthiga, the movie will reflect on the ideologies of the political party to be floated by Sarath Kumar.In this movie, Sarath Kumar dons the role of a Home Minister.Speculations were rife as to who would play the CM role. Director-turned-actor Manivannan has been chosen to play the Chef Ministers role.
Kanimozhi, D. Raja take oath as Rajya Sabha members Friday, July 27, 2007 | MP
New Delhi, July 26 (ANI): Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi's daughter Kanimozhi and Communist Party of India (CPI), National Secretary D Raja took oath as members of Rajya Sabha on Thursday.
After ceremony, Kanimozhi said that she would take up women's issues as well as those on which the Dravida Munnetra Kazahagam (DMK) has been fighting for.
"I will also talk about that (women’s issues) in a very strong way," she said.
Kanimozhi was elected to the Rajya Sabha from her home-state Tamil Nadu.
Newspapers speculated that Kanimozhi could join the Union Cabinet as a representative of DMK to fill in the place of Dayanidhi Maran, who had to quit as Minister for Telecom and Information Technology, following an internal feud in the party.
Kanimozhi, however, said she has no plans to join the Union Cabinet at present.
"I am not keen on becoming anything else. I am sure there are a lot of senior leaders in the DMK, who would be the face of the DMK. They don't need somebody as new as me to become the face of DMK," said Kanimozhi.
Kanimozhi, 39, had shunned politics for years, but is now set to take a plunge. She holds a Masters in Business Economics and is the most educated among Karunanidhi's children. She is also a well-known Tamil poet.
Raja was also elected from Tamil Nadu in the recently held elections to the Rajya Sabha.
Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and Karunanidhi were present during the ceremony. (ANI)
Kalam to address Anna University faculty, students on Thursday Thursday, July 26, 2007 | MP
Chennai, July 25 (ANI): Former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam will address faculty members of Anna University on Thursday, a day after demitting office.
He will also have an interactive session with the university's students, numbering 5,000.
Kalam is expected to arrive here from New Delhi tonight to take up a teaching assignment with the premier technical institute, where he worked for some time after superannuating as the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Prime Minister in 2001-2002.
According to Anna University Vice Chancellor D Viswanathan, the university managament has arranged the same guest house for Kalam that he used during his previous assignment.
As an honorary professor, Kalam would teach aeronautical engineering, nano-technology, bio-technology and space applications, besides guiding research scholars.
Kalam was teaching 'technology and social transformation' at the university between November 2001 and June 2002. (ANI)
SS Music VJ Lekha Washington to work with Simbu as heroine Wednesday, July 25, 2007 | Nayan
Lekha Washington, the SS Music VJ, is a sculptor, inventor and has completed her Masters from National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad. She has many roles in real life as a model for Reliance Infocomm, VJ for SS music, professional designer, short film maker and now as an actress. She is also hot, very, very hot...Lekha is a self-proclaimed crazy lass who is hopelessly passionate into travelling. She is apparently selected as the female role opposite Simbu in Kettavan. Her role in Kettavan is that of a typical Brahmin girl and she hopes to mould herself to the role. The movie is directed by Nandu and will start shooting soon after Simbhu completes his movie Kaalai.
Vikram and Trisha's Bheema coming soon Wednesday, July 25, 2007 | Nayan
Vikramss Bheema will finally hit the screens in the first week of September. The film's release had been getting delayed for a very long time. The film brings together Trisha and Vikram after their success in Saamy. Directed by Linguswamy, the re-recording for the film is underway.Meanwhile, the audio of the film is being released next week. The Vikram-Harris Jeyaraj combination has given hits like Saamy and Anniyan. It is hoped that the music of this film will also follow the same happy trend.
Actor Vikram helps Mentally challenged children Wednesday, July 25, 2007 | Nayan
Vikram participated in an annual event conducted by the Association of Chennai Registrar and Welfare organisation. The event is conducted to extend support and help for mentally challenged and destitute children. Sri Arunodayam, is also aprt of this venture. This organisation is chaired by Mr.Ayappan.The event is in its eighth year and it was celebrated on 21st of July at Kamaraj Auditorium, Chennai. Besides Vikram, ace composer Deva, Nallamuthu and Murugesan, Co-President of the association were also present.The celebs placed the children Tamarai Chelvi, Sunithi, Jeyabharati and Emi on their laps and the childrens ears were pierced. Extremely moved by the plight of the children, Vikram volunteered to accept a childs medical and educational expenses.
Rajni daughter Soundarya's Sultan release by end of 2008 Tuesday, July 24, 2007 | Nayan
It is reported that Rajinikanth will return from the US to India via Brussels in connection with the making of the animated movie Sultan. The Warrior being made by his daughter Soundarya. The father-daughter duo will be in Brussels for the initial cartoon sketches on which the animation movie will be built. Sultan: The Warrior, produced by Adlabs and Ocher Studios, directed by Soundarya Rajnikanth, shows Superstar as more than a superman with unbelievable animations. It is scheduled for release by the end of 2008 and is targetted at persons of all age-groups, all over the world. It will be released simultaneously in about 8 languages worldwide.
Japanese enjoys Rajnikanth's style Tuesday, July 24, 2007 | Nayan
Besides India, another country which has a very strong Rajni fan following is Japan. The people there enjoy the superstars style and mannerisms. His films are a big hit there too. Looks like Superstar Rajinikanth is beyond boundaries. And with Sivaji being dubbed in Chinese and Japanese, the people must be very eagerly waiting to see him.
Thee Nagar Tuesday, July 24, 2007 | Nayan
Cast: Samiksha, Divya, Kaadhal Sukumar, Shanmugarajan, Scissor Manohar, Meera Krishnan, Fatima Babu, John Amritraj and others. > Karan starrer Thee Nagar is releasing on 27th July. The film is revolves around a college campus. The story highlights how a group of happy-go-lucky students are affected when one of them gets involved with the wrong side of the law. Karan plays the role of Yamaha Murugan, who runs a tea stall, Udhayatara is making her debut in Tamil as Nadiya. The film is directed by Thirumalai (original name: Yezhumalai), who has worked as assistant to director Subhash. Native of Tiruvallur, the director has assisted in Tamil as well as Hindi films.
Shanker next movie with Sharukh Tuesday, July 24, 2007 | Nayan
Buzz doing the rounds is that Shah Rukh Khan was very impressed with Sivaji. The Boss director Shankar after he saw the Rajnikant starrer. And apparently Shankar has approached SRK for his next venture, supposedly, a sci-fi flick. The same project for which he had considered Hrithik Roshan. A source close to the director says, Shankar wanted Hrithik but it seems that he wont be able to do the film because he has already committed to his father Rakesh Roshan for Krrish 2. Now, Shankar has approached SRK and he has agreed.
Radhakrishnan assault case: Court frames charges against Kanchi seer Tuesday, July 24, 2007 | MP
Chennai, July 23 (ANI): A Sessions Court here has framed charges against Kanchi Sankaracharya Jayendra Saraswathi and eleven others in connection with the 2002 Radhakrishnan assault case.
Jayendra Saraswathi is accused of masterminding the assault on the former auditor of the Sankara Mutt, G Radhakrishnan.
On September 20, 2002, Radhakrishnan, his wife and an attendant were attacked by two persons at their house on Norton First Street at Mandaveli in Chennai.
Radhakrishnan is said to be among the conspirators in the Shankarraman murder case. Jayendra Saraswathi and his junior Vijayendra Saraswathi are also the main accused in the case.
Saraswathi, Vijayendra and 22 other accused have been charged with murder, criminal conspiracy, misleading the court by giving false information to protect the offenders and criminal trespass.
Sankararaman, the managing trustee of the Lord Varadaraja Perumal Temple at Kancheepuram, was murdered on September 3, 2004, allegedly at the behest of the accused. (ANI)
Chennai’s physically-challenged kids treated to “Sivaji-The Boss” Tuesday, July 24, 2007 | MP
Chennai, July 23 (ANI): Physically-challenged children, including orphans in Chennai, were shown the blockbuster Tamil movie "Sivaji-The Boss," on Sunday as a special treat.
"I saw the movie, it is nice. Rajnikanth's style is nice and the dialogues are fantastic," said Aarug, one of the children.
The organisers said they were happy to see children smiling. Harinath, a member of the Lions Club, described it as a unique opportunity.
"Sivaji--The Boss", was the most awaited film of the year.
Actor Rajnikanth’s unique acting style, characterised by his trademark gesture of tossing a cigarette in the air, catching it in his lips, then lighting it with a match struck against his shirtsleeve, caught the family of all the kids.
'Sivaji' has made Rajnikanth the country's highest paid actor. He reportedly charged 16 million rupees for doing the movie.
His previous film, 'Chandramukhi', ran for a record 800 days continuously. (ANI)
I have seen problems in my public life : Sneha Tuesday, July 24, 2007 | Nayan
Heroine Sneha says that once a girl becomes an actress, she is bound to face problems. Taking to a Tamil magazine she said that an actress has to face problems from different segments of society apart from finding craze in fans. I define actress as a problem. Actresses see many problems from home front as well. We have also seen a few actresses those ended up their lives due to problems from family front. But I am lucky to have great parents who understand me in all the ways. I have seen some problems in my public life, but the support extended by my family members is really good in that aspect, with which I came out from worries. Hence I only heard about the family problems of actresses but never experienced them anytime, said Sneha.
I used to work 18 hours a day: Simran Tuesday, July 24, 2007 | Nayan
We all know that Simran is a gorgeous diva on Tamil screen that ruled many hearts with her unique figure and vigor. She got married when she was in the peak of her career and now blessed with a son as well. She is coming back on screen. Let us see what she said in fresh talk: My Son: My sons name is Adeep, means, Raja. But we call him with nick name Odo. He is very mischievous and dances for the songs of Pokiri actively. Substitute to Simran: Many say about substitute to Simran but I donot believe in that. Today, many heroines are acting really well. Asin and Nayantara are wonderful in their performances and same is the case with Trisha, Sandhya and all. No Strength for 18 hours: Earlier I used to work for 18 hours a day. But now the time is not cooperating with me due to my son. I have to look after him. Still, I act in films and if time and opportunity comes, I would act in TV serials as well. But my priority is films. Glamour Show: I never relied only on glamour show. Glamour+ Performance= Simran. I believed in that and keep believing as well.
Classic beauties roll out on Chennai streets Monday, July 23, 2007 | MP
Chennai, July 22 (ANI): Vintage cars rolled out here on Sunday, attracting hundreds of automobile enthusiasts.
About 70 vintage cars, including Morris- 8, Austins, Plymouths, Citroens, Buicks and Vauxhalls, were exhibited.
Car lovers displayed their wide collection of classic beauties at the rally, which was flagged off by the city's Police Commissioner Letika Saran.
The vintage car rally, organised by the Madras Heritage Motoring Club, was different, as participants were required to come dressed in period costumes along with their family members.
The graceful machines were judged for their quality of restoration, originality and working condition.
Madras Heritage Motoring Club Secretary V. S. Kylas said: "When we buy a car, rarely we find a restored car. When you buy a car, you start from the basics. Buy parts from abroad and make the parts. Once it is restored to original specifications, it is a great feeling."
A good amount of money is spent on maintaining the backup of each car so that these can be preserved for the next generation, said Anand, a participant in the rally.
"For the backup or as a contingency plan for each car, we have the spares of more than two other cars, which have been stripped," he added.
First car came to India in 1900. In the next few years, three old automobiles were imported into the country, and within 10 years of the first car, there were several thousand vehicles.
Until 1947, when India gained independence from British imperial rule, rulers of princely states and industrialists were the biggest patrons of luxury cars.
Anticipating the need for cars in India, General Motors (GM) set up, as early as in 1927, their own 'assembly' in Mumbai. Within 10 years, GM India Limited (as it was known then, too) could churn out as many as 11,000 cars- Buicks, Chevrolets and Vauxhalls-per year. (ANI)
Lankan refugees live in appalling conditions in Tamil Nadu Monday, July 23, 2007 | MP
Kangayam (TN), July 22 (ANI): The Tamils, who fled from Sri Lanka due to the internal strife there and took shelter in refugee camps along the coastal city of Salem in Tamil Nadu, are living in deplorable conditions.
About 70 Lankan Tamil families, who made an abandoned warehouse their ‘home’ in the Kangayam camp, are still struggling to get the bare necessities of life such as water.
“Here we have sleepless nights and there are no basic facilities and there isn't water even," said Kamala Deve, who shifted to this camp from another refugee camp in Rameshwaram seven months back, after she was promised of a proper accommodation.
Lankans belonging to ethnic Tamil minority arrive mostly in and around the coastal belt in Rameswaram area, in search of a safe haven and find familiarity with Tamil Nadu.
After getting themselves fingerprinted at the nearest police post, refugees are sent to the main refugee camp at Mandapam camp, where they are screened by the security agencies. Subsequently, they are sent to various refugee camps in the State.
The refugees, many of whom have lived in asbestos-roofed warehouse for over a decade, say the living space is cramped and there is no privacy. They are living in makeshift partitions in the warehouse.
"We have covered our living area with paper boards, plastic sheets and thatched leaves. Few families have even used clothes and saris. Twelve-years have passed and our children's schooling and everything else is on the line,” said Mohan, another refugee living in the camp.
Lankan refugees are demanding that houses should be built at the ample space behind the warehouse itself, instead of being shifted to any other place.
“We have suffered a lot and it will be very difficult if we are shifted to another refugee camp. We will again face the same problems and it will take more than 10-years for us to settle ourselves," he added.
Meanwhile, the State government has promised to look into the problems of refugees.
Currently some 59,000 refugees live in these camps, while another 35,000-40,000 refugees live on their own. (ANI)
Flood alert sounded along Cauvery River Saturday, July 21, 2007 | MP
Chennai, July 20 (ANI): District and revenue authorities in Tamil Nadu's Salem, Erode, Karur, Namakkal,Trichy, Tanjavur, Thiruvarur and Nagapattinam areas have issued a flood alert along the Cauvery River, as the Mettur Dam is fast approaching its full capacity.
Revenue officials said that the inflow into the Mettur dam has increased considerably, and therefore, the district authorities have been advised to take all precautionary measures.
People living along the river have been asked to shift to higher ground, and flood alert messages are being conveyed through the beating of drums in remote villages located along the river.
Meanwhile, Mettur Dam officials said the water level this morning stood at 118 feet as against the full reservoir level of 120 feet. The inflow into the dam has increased considerably following the release of more water into the Cauvery River from the Karnataka reservoirs.
The dam is receiving an inflow of 1, 19,000 cusecs, while the outflow is being maintained at 20,000 cusecs, the officials added. (ANI with inputs)
Tsunami victims still grappling to lead normal lives Friday, July 20, 2007 | MP
Nagapattinam (Tamil Nadu), July 19 (ANI): Two-and-half years after the devastating tsunami caused havoc along India’s south-eastern coastline, survivors are still grappling to lead normal lives.
The government and the district administration, promised to rehabilitate them, but many complain that they are yet to get relief or shelter.
"For the past two and half years, we have not got housing facilities as promised. There are no proper water and sewage facilities. We have petitioned to the administration, but have not yet got a proper response from them," said Mahalakshmi, a tsunami victim.
"We are 36 families here. We petitioned the collector and were told that within two months, we will receive housing facilities. When we went to him to follow it up, we were asked not to disturb the officer. We would get our dues as promised, but we have not got any news of it yet," said Murugeshan, another victim.
Recently, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh had called for the speedy rehabilitation of those affected by the December 26, 2004 tsunami.
Expressing concern over the slow progress of rehabilitation work, especially the construction of houses for the affected people, Dr. Singh directed the Cabinet Secretary to ensure that there was no further delay in the rehabilitation process.
The tsunami was triggered off by an undersea quake measuring 9.3 on the Richter scale, off the Sumatran coast and cut a swathe of death and destruction across South and South-East Asia, killing over 231,000 people.
Tamil Nadu was the hardest hit among Indian states, accounting for over 7000 casualties. (ANI)
Bikers test skills on dirt tracks at national championship Monday, July 16, 2007 | MP
Coimbatore (Tamil Nadu), July 15 (ANI): Bikers from across the country participated in the Dirt Track National Championship here today.
It was the second event in the five-round Dirt Track National Championship.
Over 150 bikers came to test their skills on the slippery and muddy tracks in this off-road racing event.
The organisers of the event said dirt-track racing is gaining popularity.
Shrikant Karani of Coimbatore Auto Sports Club said: "Two years back when we came, there were about 90 odd entries and today there are 156. This shows that people like the event. This is a better event as bikers drive in a controlled area. They have an opportunity to show their skills."
Rustom Patel, who won the 260 cc race in Private Expert Class, termed the race as "difficult and dangerous".
"The curves were pretty dangerous. There were lots of ruts in the track. Especially the stretches and the corners, they got difficult lap-by-lap, because the more the bikes were going inside the dips, the dips were getting deeper. The deeper it was getting, it was getting more difficult. The riding conditions were getting difficult and the corners were getting slippery. But, that's what dirt track is all about. I kept my cool and this is the way to win it," Patel said.
The participants are awarded points based on their performance in each round and the one with the highest points would be declared winner after the last round of the championship.
The next round of the championship will be held in Nagpur. (ANI)
Tamil Nadu couple imparts Gandhian teachings through bicycle tour Monday, July 16, 2007 | MP
Gaya, July 15 (ANI): Kurupaiya and Chitra, who embarked on a peace bicycle tour in July 2006, imparting the teachings of the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, have reached Bihar.
Setting off their journey from a Gandhi memorial in Tamil Nadu, the duo peddled a distance of 5000 kilometres before reaching Gaya district on Saturday. En route Gaya, they have been spreading Mahatma Gandhi’s message of 'Satyagraha'.
From here, the couple will head for Jammu and Kashmir before peddling back to Tamil Nadu.
Cycle yatra (journey) programme started on July 15, 2006. Starting point was the Gandhi memorial in Madurai district. We aim at crossing 18 states by covering a distance of over 7000 kilometres," said Kurupaiya.
Mahatma Gandhi came up with the concept of 'Satyagraha' while he was practising law in South Africa, as he was deeply affected by the plight of the black people in the country, who were living without any political rights and freedom.
He deployed Satyagraha in campaigns during the struggle for Indian independence after coming back from South Africa. (ANI)
Jeyam Ravi teams up with his brother M. Raja for the film Santosh Subramanium. The film, produced by A.G.S. Entertainment Pvt Ltd., will be launched on 16th July.The film stars Prakash Raj as Ravis father. Judging from the invitation for the launch, this must be a film focussing on father-son bonding. (The invitation carries pictures of famous father-son teams, right from the divine Siva-Murugan to film personalities like Sivaji Ganesan-Prabhu, Rakesh-Hrithik Roshan, Chandrashekar-Vijay, Thyagarajan-Prashanth, to Indian politicians like M. Karunanidhi-Azhagiri and Stalin to American personalities George-George Bush).
Political turn: Sivaji facing more villains Monday, July 16, 2007 | Nayan
In the movie, Sivaji had only one Aadhi to tackle, but the film Sivaji is facing more villians. First it was someone claiming that it was his story, and now it is a congressman who wants to ban the film. The Congressman, M. Satyamoorthy has alleged that the film defames UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. He has filed a PIL in the Madras High Court, seeking the ban on the plea that the film portrayed Gandhi and Singh along with the villain, intending to defame them and the Congress. The PIL also sought Rs. 50 crores from Rajinikant, film producer A.V.M. Saravanan and director Shankar as damages to the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee for defaming the leaders in the movie. In a particular scene, a photograph on the table shows the villain standing between Sonia Gandhi and Manmohan Singh. The petitioner contended that the photograph, which was shown four times in the movie, gave an impression that the villain belonged to the Congress party and the leaders were supporting his activities in exploiting the public.
My colleagues advised to cut down fat: Namitha Monday, July 16, 2007 | Nayan
Namita reduced her weight for about 10 kgs in recent times, she says. But the observers are saying that is not evident in uniform manner. They make it clear saying that she is looking more feminine with heavy assets while her tummy is tucked in now. So, its just the fat around the equator that was burnt down, which came to 10 kgs. Obviously she is no way inclined to cut down her heaviness with respect to feminine assets as that is her USP. Namita says that two of her colleagues in Kollywood advised her to cut down that fat and they are Ajith and Vijay.
Tamil Nadu textile city Tirupur tops in pollution generation Sunday, July 15, 2007 | MP
By Jehovah G
Tirupur (TN), July 14 (ANI): Tamil Nadu textile city Tirupur, which has nearly 720 dyeing units, is ranked topmost in terms of generating hazardous waste. According to a study commissioned by the state's pollution watchdog, Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board, an estimated 8,33,365.75 tons of hazardous waste is generated every year in Tirupur.
Tirupur, referred to as the Textile Valley of India, discharges nearly 100 million litres of effluent water containing bleaching powder, sulphonic dyes, chemicals and other inorganic catalysts. These are dumped into the Noyyal River or in the open wasteland.
Kalidass, an environmentalist, says: "The agricultural lands will slowly become desert because of this sludge. Sludge will kill all the microorganisms in the earth. They will also contaminate water sources in the surroundings.”
Environmentalists concerned over the deteriorating condition seek a scientific solution.
“The entire Tirupur depends on Bhawani River, which is just over 100 kilometres from the textile city. The city’s ground water has been contaminated by the hazardous waste. We should immediately find a solution to solve this problem, otherwise, not only Tirupur but this contamination will spread over to nearby areas as well,” says Kalidass.
The discharge of untreated effluent has already damaged over 80,000 acres of farmland along the Noyyal River. It has also brought a decline in the yield of crops like turmeric and bananas.
Moreover, the discharge of effluents has contaminated groundwater along the river.
The Tamil Nadu farmers have incurred huge looses due to contaminated water. Now, the Tamil Nadu Farmers' Association (TNFA) is awaiting a Chennai High Court order on the issue.
"We have incurred losses in crores of rupees due to polluted water and our groundwater has been contaminated. There is a question mark for our next generation farmers. We are now waiting for a good judgement from the Chennai High Court and if we are not happy with the judgement, we will stage a massive protest," said Kandasamy, TNFA Secretary.
Meanwhile, about a hundred dyeing units have been closed down, as they failed to meet the standards fixed by the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB).
The waste treated water let out into the nearby rivers is free of only the coloured suspension and continues to carry a large amount of invisible dissolved materials.
According to A Thangapandian, TNPCB Divisional Engineer: "All the units have installed a system, which is called pre-treatment system. All dyeing and bleaching units remove only colour and uncoloured treated water is let out. But in the treated water the Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) still remain in large amounts. This is the main problem."
Another 500 units have been directed by the court to streamline their units as per environmental norms by the end of this month.
According to a study by the United States Agency for International Development, India's thriving industry and rapid economic growth account for much of pollution. This costs the country an estimated 9.7 billion dollars annually in environmental damage.(ANI)
Vishal is busy with Malaikottai Saturday, July 7, 2007 | Nayan
Vishal is now busy with Malaikottai. He has put aside his work on Sathyam. Muthazhagu of Paruthi Veeran is his pair. G.Boopathi Pandian, who has given 2 hits so far is directing this film. Vishal will be projected in a new angle, different from his usual action image. The film is packed with comedy. It will be an absolute commercial film to attract all movie lovers Vishals Thimiru, Sandaikozhi, Thaamirabarani were all dubbed in Telugu & were well received there too. This 6 ft hero has several fans in Andhra. He is now getting offers to act directly in Telugu films. But Vishal's aim is to reach a firm place in the Tamil film world & he is therefore not accepting Telugu films. Back to Malaikottai. As has become the norm in Tamil movies, this film also has a remix song. The old song Aathaa Aathoramaa, which was the cause of increase in eve-teasing in villages is being remixed for this film.
Japan Film Festival till 12th Saturday, July 7, 2007 | Nayan
The Japanese Film Festival is being organized at the Chennai Film Chamber by the International Cine Appreciation Forum (ICAF) along with the Consulate General of Japan-Chennai and the Madras Film Society from July 9th to 12th. Vice Consul Ms.Sakura Ozaki will inaugurate the film festival at 6.15 pm on July 9th. Balu Mahendra and other celebrities will attend. Two films directed by Kuroki Kuzuo and a film each by Yamada Yoji and Furumaya Tomoyuki will be filmed. List of films 09.07.07 The Face of Jizo (Director: Kuroki Kuzuo) 10.07.07 The Hidden Blade (Director: Yamada Yoji) 11.07.07 A Boys Summer (Director: Kuroki Kuzuo) 12.07.07 Robocon (Director: Furumaya Tomoyuki)
Curative qualities of Tamil Nadu’s Kuttralam waterfalls Saturday, July 7, 2007 | Nayan
Kuttralam (Chennai), July 5 (ANI): If you want a good massage, a bath under a ‘medicinal’ waterfall, followed by a good south Indian meal and rounded off by a good sleep at a comfortable resting place, visit Kuttralam in Tamil Nadu.
The waterfall is certified to have curative qualities by thousands of people who have been visiting Kuttralam regularly. The water that comes down from the 167 meter high waterfall is mineral rich and those who have enjoyed a shower under it will tell you that one is always reluctant to come out.
Kuttralam is located in the Trunelveli District. The resort is 135 kilometres north-west of Kanyakumari and 650 kilometres from Chennai.
There are nine natural ‘showers’ of waterfalls at Kuttralam, and each shower can accommodate many, many families. Kuttralam is both a health resort and a picnic spot for families.
Southern India has had good rains and the waterfalls have plenty of water. The weather is pleasant. If you can manage a holiday, book your seats at the Kuttralam resorts, and recharge yourself.
Annad, a tourist from Kanyakumari, said: "I have been coming to Kuttralam since four or five years. The season has started. We take bath here because the water has medicinal qualities. I come here with my family." Kumar, another tourist, said: "Kuttralam season has started. I have been coming here for the past nine years to enjoy bath under the natural shower, which has medicinal property. Secondly, oil massage is also available here. So every year we come to Kuttralam."
It is believed that the waters of the fall touch many medicinal plants along the way, which makes it curative. Tourists can enjoy bathing under the waterfalls, take oil massage and enjoy boat rides.
Malathi, a tourist at Kuttralam, said: "We went to the main waterfall first, since there was a great gush of water; then we went to enjoy boating."
(ANI)
USS Nimitz leaves Indian shores Friday, July 6, 2007 | MP
Chennai, July 5 (ANI): The nuclear-powered USS Nimitz, whose arrival in Indian waters had been strongly opposed by the Left and other opposition political parties and environmentalists, left Indian waters at around 10.00 a.m.
The USS Nimitz, which anchored off Chennai port on Monday, left along with the USS Pinckney, which was also anchored off port.
The ships are headed back to the Gulf.
The US aircraft carrier's arrival marks a landmark event in the growing defence ties between Washington and New Delhi, but the Left opposed the vessel’s visit, expressing fears that New Delhi was getting sucked in by the US.
The protest was also joined by the Tamil Nadu Muslim Munnetra Kazhagam (TMMK), a voluntary organization of Tamil Nadu Muslims.
Under Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh's Government, Washington and New Delhi have seen a blossoming of military, economic and diplomatic ties, triggering unease among the powerful Communists who help shore up the more than three-year-old Central coalition.
Defence Minister A K Antony had said the visit of the warship to India was part of efforts to expand bilateral defence cooperation.
Some port workers had expressed fears about the impact on the environment due to the visit of a nuclear-powered ship.
But US Ambassador to India, David Mulford, dismissed such fears, saying everything had been sorted out with New Delhi.
"There is nothing to worry about, and all has been discussed with the government. I do not know what their particular concern is, but it seems to be it would be nice if they could welcome the ship," Mulford said.
Earlier, Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Sureesh Mehta, ruled out fear of radiation from the USS Nimitz.
Meanwhile, sailors of Nimitz visited the Indian Council for Child Welfare during their five-day port call in Chennai.
David Grimes, a sailor, said that he really enjoyed helping somebody and doing some physical work and seeing the smiles on people's faces.
According to some Indian commentators, the port call by the USS Nimitz was also an attempt to heal past scars.
They said it brought back memories of 1971 when Washington sent another aircraft carrier, the USS Enterprise, to the Bay of Bengal to intimidate India as it fought Pakistan in a war that eventually led to the creation of Bangladesh. (ANI)
Gold worth 1.8 million rupees seized from Sri Lankans in Chennai Friday, July 6, 2007 | MP
Chennai, July 5 (ANI): Custom authorities here have arrested two Sri Lankan nationals and seized gold worth 1.8 million rupees from them.
"We intercepted two Sri Lankan citizens who arrived from Colombo by Sri Lankan airways on Wednesday. One was wearing a copper tube sort of thing. Along with this, he was also wearing a very thick gold chain," said C. Rajan, Customs Commissioner.
Sasiharan and Kanagaratninam Mohanraj were nabbed at the airport after deplaning from a Sri Lankan Airlines flight.
The gold bars were hidden beneath copper tubes. Heavy gold chains were also recovered from them.
Chennai Custom authorities also detained a 21-year-old Indian travelling from Singapore to Chennai after seizing electronic goods worth 1.3 million rupees from him. (ANI)
Tamil Nadu’s 'teen' doctor surrenders Thursday, July 5, 2007 | MP
Trichy (TN), July 4 (ANI): A fifteen-year-old boy accused of illegally conducting a caesarean operation surrendered before the Tamil Nadu police here on Wednesday.
The boy, Dhileepan Raj, is accused of carrying out the surgery at the behest of his doctor parents to win a place in the Guinness Book of World Records.
The parents - doctors Murugesan and Gandhimathi -- were arrested in June after an inquiry found them guilty of medical malpractice for allowing the boy to carry out the surgery.
The 'teen surgeon' went absconding after the arrest of his parents, but surrendered before a local court in Trichy.
"We applied for the bail, the court has rejected the bail. Today Dhileepan Raj has surrendered to the magistrate and the magistrate has asked Raj to stay with his grandmother in Mannapparai," said Vengata Subramanium, counsel for Raj.
Raj's parents had screened a video of the surgery to other doctors, claiming their son as the world's youngest surgeon. The operation on a woman was successful and the baby was born healthy. (ANI)
Chennai fishermen net 13 sea snakes Wednesday, July 4, 2007 | MP
Chennai, July 3 (ANI): Chennai fishermen caught a dozen venomous sea snakes about three kilometres off Marina beach recently.
The fishermen netted snakes of yellow, ornate, annulated, small head among other varieties.
Senthil, one of the fishermen, said: "We went to catch fish but instead we caught sea snakes of different sizes. We called up the fisheries department and handed over the snakes to the officials."
All the snakes were handed over to the Zoological Survey of India.
Of the total 13 snakes, three were rare and have been kept in aquarium for public viewing and research. The rest were freed into the sea water.
Office in-charge of Zoological Survey of India, J. J. Jothi Nayagam, said: "Very rarely we get sea snakes in this area. We caught a dozen of them - comprising two-three species. We took two-three out of them and the remaining we left in the sea. We have kept these snakes in our aquarium for public viewing."
Sea snakes are several times poisonous than the land snakes and there is no anti-venom in the country for a sea snake bite.
Despite being dangerous, the sea snakes are shy, slow on land and bite only on mishandling. The aquatic reptiles rarely exceed two meters in length and have small heads compared to their body size.
Sea snakes are commonly found in tropical oceans - mostly the Indian and the western Pacific Ocean.
Most sea snakes, however, have mouths large enough to swallow small to medium sized fish whole, and are able to dislocate their jaws in the same manner as terrestrial snakes.
The main exceptions are the species that have specialised to feed on eels that live in burrows.
These species tend to have small heads and slender necks, presumably so they can easily poke down burrows and catch their prey. But in general marine snakes have mouths that can open widely and can bite humans on their limbs if they want to. (ANI)
USS Nimitz to dock in Chennai today Monday, July 2, 2007 | MP
Chennai, June 25 (ANI): The US nuclear powered warship and aircraft carrier USS Nimitz is to dock in Chennai Port today and will remain stationed here till July 5.
The USS Nimitz is one of the world's largest aircraft carriers with 90 fighters and helicopters on board.
Defence Minister A K Antony said on Monday that the visit of the warship to India was part of efforts to expand bilateral defence cooperation.
Meanwhile, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Suresh Mehta has ruled out any fear of radiations from the USS Nimitz.
"It is the government of India's job to see that the safety of the people is ensured. There are set procedures for it. These have been followed in this case and there is nothing to worry," Admiral Mehta told reporters in Kolkata yesterday.
The statement comes in after Water Transport Workers' Federation of India General Secretary T Narendra Rao warned that even if there was a small radiation from the USS Nimitz, Chennai and its surrounding areas could be affected.
The Chennai Port Trust has reportedly made arrangements to face any eventuality in the wake of the ship's proposed visit, including vacating a hospital complex to treat people in case of a nuclear radiation.
The Department of Atomic Energy has also sent a consignment of medicines as a contingency measure.
Port Trust Chairman K Suresh also said the fear about nuclear radiation was ''unwarranted and unnecessary as the warship had already visited many countries as part of its global cruise''. (ANI)
