Singer P Leela passes away Monday, October 31, 2005 | AY
P Leela, renowned playback singer and Carnatic musician, passes away early on Monday morning at a private hospital in Chennai after a brief illness. She was 76. In a career spanning over five decades since the 1940s, P Leela, who passed away here early this morning, had sung over 1,000 songs in different languages under top music directors. She also left a lasting impression as a devotional singer with her recital of Narayaneeyam and Lord Guruvayurappan songs marking brisk sales since the days of LP records. Vakacharthu as recited by Leela, is played every morning in Guruvayur temple, coinciding with the Nirmalya darshan in the wee hours. Her first song was for the Tamil movie Kankanam in 1943, when she was just 13. It was an invocational song composed by H R Padmanabha Sastry.
Online tracking of traffic from Chennai port Monday, October 31, 2005 | AY
A new software module to monitor the container movement from Chennai port to the inland container depots (ICD) and container freight stations (CFS), has been launched by Chennai customs. The in-gate and out-gate of the Chennai Container Terminal Ltd (CCTL) have been provided computer connectivity and linked to the custom house server. This facility eliminates delays in processing transshipment requests, cuts down paper work and leads to greater transparency and helps the department in effective monitoring.
Simbu's brother will soon hit the screens Sunday, October 30, 2005 | AY
Simbu's brother Kuralarasan has made brief appearances as a child star in films directed by his father. Since his older son is having good recognition in Kollywod, TR wants his younger son also to become a star to be reckoned with. Now the main thing for TR to do is to get his son to lose weight, which was the main hinderance in the plans of becoming a star.
Kundakka Mandakka Sunday, October 30, 2005 | AY
Kundakka Mandakka, is a comedy track written by C.K.Balakumaran and Balamurugan for for Parthiban and Vadivelu. The well to do Lakshmi Rai falls in love with Parthiban. He intends to become a crorepathi by finding a super rich groom for his sister Mallika. Finding young Amrit, new face, who is living away from his parents, he sets him up as a co-tenant in his house, and creates several chances for Mallika to get meet him. When she witnesses how he bears the full burden of a large family, she falls in love with him. Now Parthiban wants to separate them, as Amrit was poor. Later they come to know that the so-called poor Amrit is in fact a crorepathi. How he weds Mallika on the face of opposition from his father is the climax. There does not seem to be a great effort on the part of the director, Ashokan. He has placed his faith on the Partiban Vadivelu comedy duo.
IT raid reveals huge amounts Saturday, October 29, 2005 | AY
Recently, income tax officials have suddenly raided the houses of many cine stars, and huge amounts seized. The raid was carried out in the houses of nearly 20 cine stars. Money and jewels that were unaccounted have been seized. A sum of nearly 6 crores was seized from A.R. Rehman’s house. The bank lockers of all the 20 people have been sealed. They are to be opened this Monday for verification.
WHO recognition for Christian medical college Saturday, October 29, 2005 | AY
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has given recognition to the Department of Emergency Medicine of the Christian Medical College and Hospital, Vellore, as the South Asian Regional Training Centre in Emergency Medicine. The Emergency Medicine Department of CMC was the first academic department in the discipline to be established in India in 1994. The Department of Emergency Medicine was established in medical colleges and hospitals in the US 35 years ago, in UK 28 years ago and in Australia 26 years ago. In 1997, CMC started the first training programme in emergency medicine, providing a one and half year programme. The National Board of Examinations, Delhi has informed medical colleges to start a post-doctoral fellowship in emergency medicine. He further said that the 7th National Conference of Emergency Medicine was inaugurated on October 27 at CMC, Vellore. About 600 delegates from India and abroad participated in the conference.
TN questioned by PETA on enforcing animal rights Saturday, October 29, 2005 | AY
Despite a Central direction to enforce animal protection laws, especially regarding animal transportation and slaughter, a report of an undercover investigation conducted by People for Ethical Treatment to Animals (PETA) it was found that, animals were transported in the state in poor, crowded conditions and without valid health certification. The investigation also showed that animals "are routinely dragged, beaten, cruelly and illegally mishandled. None of the 14 slaughterhouses investigated had either a veterinarian or a manager who was actively involved in the functioning of the slaughterhouses. Meat is typically produced in filthy conditions where it is easily exposed to contaminants such as faeces and urine. Government health mark is applied on carcasses by unauthorised workers, and meat is never adequately checked for safety before it is sold.
Chandramukhi adds another feather to its cap of success Friday, October 28, 2005 | AY
The mega hit 'Chandramukh'i by Sivaji Productions has been chosen as the “only Tamil film in India” and has been telecast in the International film festival that took place in Tokyo on the 23rd of this month. This film has a very warm welcome among the audience. Thus it is to be telecasted again on the 29th.
Aadum Koothu Friday, October 28, 2005 | AY
T.V Chandran is to produce a Tamil film titled 'Aadum Koothu'. This is the first time he is producing a Tamil film. Cheran, Navya Nair, Prakash Raj, Manorama, Sugumari, Pandiyarajan, Kalabhavan Mani, Saranya and many others are acting in this film. Chandran’s Malayalam films have always been successful and have got many awards too
GICC in Chennai Friday, October 28, 2005 | AY
IT major Tata Consultancy Services, with an investment of Rs 45 crore, has launched its remote-managed infrastructure solution and BPO solution centre in Chennai. The facility has a capacity to accommodate over 5,000 persons (2,500-seats). The Global Infrastructure Command Centre (GICC) will provide a "single-window view" to clients on all TCS infrastructure offerings and the Chennai centre will help the company service its top clients. The company has identified five key growth areas, consulting, BPO, engineering and industrial resources, products & assets solution and remote management of infrastructure for growth. The centre, on an area of 2,50,000 sq feet area, will start with 300 people in the next few weeks and in the next 6-12 months, associates in TCS' other centres in Chennai would be moved to the new facility.
June. R Thursday, October 27, 2005 | AY
June. R brings together Saritha, Khushboo and Jyothika. The movie has a feminine subject and a down-to-earth portrayal of human emotions with Saritha playing the role of Jyothika’s mother. June. R speaks about the relationship shared between a mother and her daughter. Jyothika plays a young girl named June in the movie as the title suggests. Saritha who recently made her entry in small screen has come back to the Silver screen with tremendous expectations. The internationally much-admired cinematographer, Madhu Ambat is handling the camera. Music by Sarath from the Malayalam industry.
Lata Mangeshkar does a noble deed Thursday, October 27, 2005 | AY
Lata Mangeshkar, has donated Rs.23 lakh from her MP Local Area Development Fund to the Rotary Club of Madras for construction of two blocks for senior citizens home at the Voluntary Health Services hospital here. The person instrumental in seeking the donation was G Ramkumar of Sivaji Ganesan productions. Ramkumar, a producer, is the eldest son of late Tamil film thespian, 'Sivaji' Ganesan. Lata Mangeshkar, a Rajya Sabha member, is a close family friend of Sivaji Ganesan.
Veyil Tuesday, October 25, 2005 | AY
Director Shankar’s next film 'Veyil'has his lucky mascot hero Bharath is starring in this film again. Another hero is to be Pasupathy. Two heroines are to be involved in this film, one being Bhavana and the other one is still to be announced. G.V. Prakash is the new music director with Vasanthabalan directing this film.
Wi-Fi in TN airports Tuesday, October 25, 2005 | AY
The Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) internet facility will be extended to all the airports in the country to help air passengers make contact with their home city or any other place in the world. Union Communications and IT Minister M Dayanidhi Maran, said the facility would be available in all the airports in Tamil Nadu with the simultaneous launching of the same through video conferencing at Tiruchi and Coimbatore. He said though the facility was available in Kolkata and Chennai, Tamil Nadu would have the honour of being the first state in the country to have the facility in all the airports. The facility would be available free of cost at the airports, and help the state remain on top in the Communication and Information Technology field.
Stress on digital libraries Tuesday, October 25, 2005 | AY
Chief Librarian, SRM Institute of Science and Technology,Chennai says that digital libraries are the only solution to the problem of pages disappearing from library books. Mr. Rajendran was one among the three Indians, who participated in the 8th International Symposium of Electronic Theses and Dissertations, in September. The paper won the appreciation of many since it was one hundred percent practically applicable. He said that SRM would have a digitised library in another two or three years. The reading material would be available in PDF format so that it could just be read and not downloaded. Though digital libraries are extremely convenient and space-saving, it is ultimately the individual who has to take the initiative and read.
Varuga Varam Tharuga Monday, October 24, 2005 | AY
'Varuga Varam Tharuga' is based on a true life incident that took place in a village near Vellore. A famous actor and actress are to act in this film. Along with them Vijayakumar, Nalini, Ambika, Rajesh, V.A. Moorthy, Delhi Ganesh, Swarna and many others are also acting. The shooting is taking place in naturally attractive areas like Dindigul, Theni, Kerala. Is God in the form of a statue or a human?” is the theme of this film.
Petrol Monday, October 24, 2005 | AY
Venkatesh directs 'Petrol' with Prasanth and Laila starring it. Along with them Vadivelu, Sathyan, Meera Krishnan, Laksha and many others are working in this film. A story featuring a youth who is inflammable, and can catch fire easily like petrol is the different plot of this film. Srikanth Deva is the music director for this film.
SDC by Amazon.com in Chennai Monday, October 24, 2005 | AY
A software development centre (SDC) by Seattle-based Amazon.com, Inc., a Fortune 500 company, is coming up in Chennai. The centre will focus on developing new and innovative web site features to help Amazon's customers around the world find and discover anything they want to buy online. This ownership includes idea generation, analysis and technical design, as well as front, middle and back-tier software development across a variety of architectures and technologies. The centre will be the second SDC in India for Amazon. It has already one in Bangalore. Selecting Chennai for locating its second SDC, they said that Amazon is interested in tapping into any place where super stars are available.
Diwali releases Wednesday, October 19, 2005 | AY
This Deepavali is to be a special one for the Tamil film world, since five super movies are to be released this time. 'Sivakaasi' has Vijay and Asin pairing up in it. A.M. Ratnam and Perarasu are also a part of this great team. 'Maja' has Vikram and Asin starring in it. Maja is the remake of a Malayalam film. Cheran’s next movie after 'Autograph' is 'Thavamaai Thavamirundhu', where he is the director and the actor. 'Adhu Oru Kanakkalam', a film of Balu Mahendra, has Dhanush and Priya Mani starring in it. 'Perarasu' is also likely to be released this Deepavali.
Tamil Nadu wins Vinoo Mankad Trophy Wednesday, October 19, 2005 | AY
Tamil Nadu won the South Zone Vinoo Mankad Trophy Cricket tournament held in Thiruvananthapuram. Tamil Nadu claimed 20 points in the six-team league matches. In the last league tie, Tamil Nadu beat Kerala by four wickets. A fine century from Anirudha Srikant (140) and) Gopinath (77) helped Tamil Nadu to pile up 312 for 6 in 50 overs against host Kerala. In reply, Kerala were all out for 211 in 50 overs. Rejilal scored 92 runs for Kerala. The scores: Tamil Nadu 312 for 6 off 50 overs (Anirudha Srikant 140, Gopinath 77, K Sri ram 31, Sanal Mohammed 4/57). beat Kerala 211 all out in 50 overs ( Rejilal 92, V S Siju 36. K Sriram 2/19).
En Uyirinum Melaana Wednesday, October 19, 2005 | AY
Global films is a new film company that is producing 'En Uyirinum Melaana'. A new hero named Chiranjeevi the hero, and Bisha, the heroine, perform their debut roles in this film. The very name of the actor reminds us about Telugu superstar Chiranjeevi. S.P. Balasubramaniam, Karunaas, Ranjith, Ravikumar, Fathima Babu and many others are acting in this film. Shooting is taking place in spots like Kochi, Aazhapuzha and Ooty.
GV Films plans ambitious Rs 10 billion project Wednesday, October 19, 2005 | AY
Chennai-based GV Films is in talks to jointly set up an ambitious Rs 10 billion entertainment township in Panvel near Navi Mumbai. The company is also in negotiations with multinational companies like Panasonic for technology support. Sources say GV Films is weighing the option of going for a FCCB (Foreign Currency Convertible Bond) issue, which is likely to be in the size of Rs 1.25-1.50 billion to fund this project. GV Films board is meeting on 20 October to consider the proposal of joint venture with another Indian entity for executing a 'Digipolis' . Recently, GV Films has signed up with Jaya TV to produce the country's first 3D serial on television. In fact, GV Films is making two 3D live action shows for Jaya TV - Paramapadam (Snake and Ladder) and Mayawi (Invisible Man).
Anand settles for draw with Morozevich Tuesday, October 18, 2005 | AY
Viswanathan Anand took an exciting draw with Russian Alexander Morozevich while Bulgarian Veselin Topalov emerged as the new world champion after drawing with Rustam Kasimdzhanov of Uzbekistan in the 13th and penultimate round of the World Chess Championship held in Argentina. The draw by Anand meant that the Indian ace will now have to battle it out for the second place against Russian Peter Svidler in a final round showdown. Topalov emerged as the worthy winner of the championship with his sixth draw on the trot after he had raced to 6.5/7 in the first half. Anand and Svidler remained joint second on 8 points, Morozevich is next in line on 6.5 while Kasimdzhanov and Leko stand shared fifth on 5.5 points.
Actor Kannan dead Tuesday, October 18, 2005 | AY
Tamil film actor of yesteryear and AIADMK functionary, Kannan, died of heart attack at Aruppukottai, 40 km from here, last night. Police said the 70-year-old actor suffered a massive heart attack while addressing a public meeting at Aruppukottai and collapsed on the spot.
Anandaraj joins AIADMK Tuesday, October 18, 2005 | AY
Tamil film actor Anandaraj today joined the AIADMK in the presence of party supremo Jayalalithaa at the party headquarters here. Many volunteers from the DMK, Congress and MDMK also joined the AIADMK. Earlier, Jayalalithaa garlanded the statue of the party founder, late M G Ramachandran, and distributed sweets to partymen to celebrate the party's 34th founding day.
TN will examine Muslims' demand Tuesday, October 18, 2005 | AY
Tamil Nadu will explore the possibility of reserving some percentage of jobs in government services to Muslims taking note of the Supreme Court's verdict on a case challenging the validity of a state government Act providing 69 per cent reservation for certain communities. Earlier, she said when the Act providing 69 per cent reservation was "interfered with" by the Supreme Court and the Act itself was in "jeopardy, we cannot think of reservation at this stage." She later said that the demands of the Muslims "will be examined taking note of the Supreme Court's verdict on the 1994 Tamil Nadu Reservation Act." Her remarks assume significance as DMK president M Karunanidhi had at an Iftar party last night promised reservation in jobs for the minorities if the DMK-led DPA came to power in the 2006 Assembly polls.
Anniyan - A hit in Telugu too Tuesday, October 18, 2005 | AY
Aparajithudu, the Telugu version of Anniyan is having a great run. The collections seem to be many crores more that it was in Tamil. Vikram was taken to the screens to get a first hand response from the audience directly. Vikram also received blessings and wishes from Akkineni Nageswara Rao for his very good performance.
Kaalayil Thinamum Tuesday, October 18, 2005 | AY
Shooting of "Kaalayil Thinamum" is taking place from two days in Tirupurangundram near Madurai. Kaali, a graduate from Madurai is performing his debut as hero in this film. Asha Rehman from Kerala is the heroine. This film has two directors, Nandakumar and Sugunthakumar. Kaali plays the role of a videographer in this film, Asha, who is actually a student of Class 11, plays the role of a college student. This film is to be shot in and around Madurai only and is planned for a Valentine day release.
Koothaadi Tuesday, October 18, 2005 | AY
Balamurugan Euro films produce a new film titled 'Koothaadi'. Vinitha’s brother is to take up the hero’s role in this film. A new girl is to be introduced in this film. The selection for the heroine is in process. Vilasini is to act as another heroine. Vinitha is to take up an important role in this film, along with Chandrasekar, Thalaivaasal Vijay, Thyagu, Kumarimuthu, Maran, Paravai Muniyamma and many others.
Dhanush's demand rises Tuesday, October 18, 2005 | AY
'Athu Oru Kanaakaalam' with Dhanush starring in it is yet to be released. Shooting for his 'Pudupettai' and 'Thiruvilayaadal' are on the move. Shooting for 'Asokamitran' has just now started. In such circumstances, Dhanush has accepted three other offers; one for Rajusundaram, one for K. Balachander and one more for A.M. Ratnam.
TIE to make paper cartridged emulsion explosives Tuesday, October 18, 2005 | AY
The Tamil Nadu Industrial Explosives (TIE) proposes to put up a project for manufacturing paper cartridged emulsion explosives, which are expected to hit the market in January 2006. The company has also taken steps to obtain suitable technology from an overseas company for developing new explosives which are also expected to be in the market. TIE registered a loss of Rs 30 crore due to a ban on nitro glycerine explosives by the union government in April 2004. Nitro glycerine explosives accounted for close to 70 per cent of its total revenue. The capacity of this unit has been increased to 8,000 MTs in the current year.
Luxury tax may be cut in the state Tuesday, October 18, 2005 | AY
Tamil Nadu Government, in collaboration with the governments of other southern states, was working on development of inter-state travel circuits in the region. The Government was also working out plans to develop common circuits with Sri Lanka, as Tamil Nadu and the island nation were emerging fast as 'twinning of destinations' for a large number of visitors from Europe and elsewhere. Efforts were also on to establish a circular southern splendour tourist train. Though there was a dip in the tourist arrivals after the December 26 tsunami disaster in the state, it had improved from April this onwards. The tsumani tragedy had some positive fall out with the uncovering of new archaeological finds in Mamallapuram, which were buried under sands for centuries. The state government would consider a request of the hoteliers for a reduction in luxary tax.
Mazhai Wednesday, October 12, 2005 | AY
'Mazhai' is the Tamil remake of the Telugu film 'Varsham.'During shooting, the millionaire daadhaa Rahul Dev kidnaps Shreya. Since this brings a halt to shooting, the producer Pyramid Natarajan goes even so far as to contact his friend who is the Home Minister to help him solve the problem, but people are not willing to antagonize Rahul Dev. Shreya's father Kalabhavan Mani advises Pyramid Natarajan to get Jeyam Ravi to rescue Shreya. Ravi is vehemently opposed to this in the beginning, but later he needs Pyramid Natarajan's help for his uncle's operation. So, he finally agrees to rescue Shreya. Now we have a small flash back. Shreya loves the rain and every time it rains, she gets herself wet in the rain and sings and dances in joy. Every time Ravi and Shreya meet, it rains and love develops somewhere along the way. Similarly, Rahul Dev also sees Shreya first in the rain and wants to marry her. When Kalabhavan Mani learns of his daughter's love for Ravi, he informs Rahul Dev, who warns Ravi to forget Shreya but that has no effect. In the meantime, Shreya gets an opportunity to act in films. With Rahul Dev's help, he manages to cause a rift between Shreya and Ravi with the result that Ravi ultimately leaves town. Vadivelu appears in very few scenes. Making his debut as villain, Rahul Dev is portrayed as a usual villain. Ambika, Charlie and Venkat Prabhu are also featured in the film.
TN panchayats computerised Wednesday, October 12, 2005 | AY
Panchayats in Tamil Nadu will be computerised in a few months, achieving the vision of taking IT to every citizen of the state, Minister for Law and Information Technology D Jayakumar said. State government had gone a long way in advocating e-governance with several departments being computerised and the interest being taken down to the rural levels. Departments, including IT, Industry, Public Welfare, Social Welfare, Rural Development and Revenue Administration had adapted to IT in a big way. Villagers could access information on agriculture market prices or changing land ownership through a touch screen kiosk through the Rural Access to Services through Internet (RASI). The RASI, which is implemented in Public Private Partnership (PPP) model, has been established by Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in rural areas to provide services to citizens. There are about 2,500 RASI centres in the state.
Sania refused to act in Tamil Tuesday, October 11, 2005 | AY
Simbu was pretty talented to bring Mandira Bedi into Manmadhan. In Vallavan also, there will be many attractive women artists. Three women artists are to act in this film. Simbu had announced in a magazine that he requested Sania Mirza to act in this film. She was approached as she is considered as one among the youngest icons of today. It is now reported that Sania has refused this offer with the comment that her interest lies in tennis alone.
P Chidambaram had a miraculous escape Tuesday, October 11, 2005 | AY
The Union Finance Minister, Mr P Chidambaram escaped with very minor head injuries when the roof of a dais collapsed due to heavy rains, thunder and gusty winds as he was about to deliver an address at a function in Elayangudi in Tamil Nadu’s Sivaganga district late this evening. Congress Rajya Sabha MP, Mr Sudarsan Natchiappan, the IOC chairman, Mr S Behuria, the petroleum secretary, Mr M S Srinivasan, who were also on the stage, managed to escape, as they saw the roof collapsing from its sides. The function was for the inauguration of a bottling plant of the IOC, the 11th in the state.
International recognition for film 'Kadal' Monday, October 10, 2005 | AY
Tamilians can proudly participate in the 49th Film Festival taking place in London thanks to Director Balaji Sakthivel. 'Kadal' is being screened on October 21 and 24 during the Film Festival in London taking place between 19th October and 3rd November. It is great film depicting the blossoming of tender love without exaggeration. Director Balaji Sakthivel will give talk on this film's concept to the international delegates. The reason for Tamil cinema not being counted in the international arena is its artificiality alone. The movie songs are its high point. The entry of Tamil film on the international stage is a sign of change in the audience's perception.
Chennai's 'missing' Deputy Mayor Monday, October 10, 2005 | AY
There's a big mystery over the disappearance of the city's Deputy Mayor Karate Thiagarajan. For almost ten days, the Deputy Mayor has been missing. Many believe he has gone into hiding to escape the wrath of his political bosses for an unknown reason. Some say he fears being framed in an alleged scam involving permits for hoardings. Ever since the AIADMK came to power, the high-profile Deputy Mayor wielded considerable clout in the government. He functioned as the acting Mayor of the city after DMK leader M K Stalin was unseated due to the 'one man one post rule'. But over the last few months, Thiagarajan rubbed his political bosses on the wrong side. Even Chief Minister Jayalalithaa is said to have recently given him a dressing down at a meeting of the party's Corporation Councillors for his reported overbearing style of functioning. In the city, the Deputy Mayor's wife held a press conference and said she fears for her husband's life if he returns to Tamil Nadu. Breaking its silence since Thiagarajan went missing, the Tamil Nadu government through its Law Minister has issued a statement that the Deputy Mayor's fears are imaginary and the whole episode is politically stage-managed.
TN postal circle soaring high Sunday, October 9, 2005 | AY
Tamilnadu Postal Circle has generated revenue of Rs 93 crore under premium products including Speed Post, Business Post, Bulk Mail Services and this year the aim is to achieve Rs 140 crore. Tamilnadu Postal circle planned to highlight the technological innovations being carried out in Postal department, besides highlighting products like the recently introduced Direct Post. Direct Post service, introduced recently, was an exclusive product for the corporate sector and the postman, for a charge, would deliver publicity materials of the companies to different places. The new premium products called Logistics Post service launched in April this year between Chennai-Hosur-Chennai and the department has earned a revenue of Rs 7 lakh against the target of Rs 25 lakh. The department has proposed to introduce an 'Instant Money order' service, in which online money transfer within the country could take place. The Tamilnadu circle was the leader in international money transfer and has tied up with Western Union money transfer company.
Vidwan Madurai N Krishnan expired today Sunday, October 9, 2005 | AY
Carnatic musician and winner of Padma Bhushan and Padma Sree, Vidwan Madurai N Krishnan passed away at a hospital in Chennai, during the early hours of Sunday. He was 77 and is survived by four daughters. Krishnan was suffering from prolonged kidney ailment. A winner of several prestigious awards including Kalaimamani award, Krishnan's name was synonymous with Indian classical Carnatic music. He hailed from a traditional family with musical background. Krishnan underwent formal training in Carnatic music in Tamil Isai School, Karaikudi and also obtained the 'Sangeetha Vidwan' title from the Tamil Nadu Government Music College. He underwent 'gurukula vasam' for a period of 18 years under the late Ariyakudi Sri Ramanuja Iyengar. He was direct descendant of 'guru sishya' parampara of Thiyagarja. One of the founders of Shree Bharatalaya, an institution of fine arts, Krishnan was the grandson of HH Swayamprakasa Swamigal.
Sathi Savithri Saturday, October 8, 2005 | AY
Y.S.R. Productions are into producing the film "Sathi Savithri". Sriman is the hero in this film. As his pair, the Mumbai model Keerthi Chawla is to act. Nizhalgal Ravi, Chitti Babu, Kavitha, Sukumar, Aarthi, Benjamin are also working for this film. The story is about a youth who leaves for the city immediately after his marriage to earn money to settle his debts. Not knowing about his previous marriage, the girl loves him deeply and helps him in settling all his debts. Thus he accepts her with all his heart. In such a situation, the wife of the hero comes to the city in search of him. How the hero deals with both of them is all what the story is about. This is portrayed in a jovial way.
Sivalingam IPS Saturday, October 8, 2005 | AY
Fondly called as Maha Nadigan, Sathyaraj is to glitter in the film "Sivalingam IPS". Sundari Films are releasing this film with M. Gnanasundari as the producer, and Karthick is to make his first appearance as villain. Karthick, who was once a very famous hero has not been on the screens for quite some time. He is to make his presence felt as villain in this film.
Chennai Trust gets the prize from KBC-2 Saturday, October 8, 2005 | AY
Ajay Devgan and Kajol the star couple who took part in KBC 2 won Rs one crore. They donated the entire money to the Chennai based Mahesh Memorial Trust. The Trust instituted in the memory of music director Mahesh who died of cancer has Manirathinam, Jayendra of Real Image and Bharat Ram a leading lawyer among the trustees. The Trust roped in A R Rahman who staged a concert in Chennai for the first time in aid of the Trust. The Trust got Rs one crore from the proceeds of the show. The Trust had set up a plan to build a 1800 sq.ft. children’s ward in the Cancer Institute. Since this money was not enough they approached Star TV with the idea of getting stars to take part in the KBC and donate the prize money to the Trust. The channel in turn asked them to rope in the stars. Manirathinam who had worked with Ajay Devgan in Yuva stepped in and requested the actor to take part in the show. The actor readily agreed and brought along his wife Kajol too.
Guyana kids have successful heart surgeries Saturday, October 8, 2005 | AY
Four children from Guyana have undergone successful heart operations at a Chennai hospital. The surgeries were performed by K.M. Cherian at the International Centre for Cardio-Thoracic and Vascular Diseases in Frontier Line Hospital at Chennai. Anjani Prittipaul, Casey Clifton, Romel Hassan and Premdai Harrichand, all aged between five and 13 years, are currently recuperating before they leave next Thursday for London en route to Guyana. One reason for choosing India for the four children was the low cost of surgeries and the "shortage of medical specialists in Guyana".
Bill Gates visits Chennai in Dec Saturday, October 8, 2005 | AY
Microsoft head Bill Gates is expected to visit Chennai in December this year, said Dayanidhi Maran, union minister for communications and IT. Gates has invested Rs 10 crore in a pilot project to take e-governance to the villages, Maran said, adding, Microsoft had taken the bold step of deciding to launch bi-lingual Microsoft Windows XP starter (in English and a local language). “Besides Hindi, the edition would be launched in eight local languages in January next year.” On the education front, Maran said that Microsoft had agreed to sponsor a pilot project to train teachers. This involves deploying 5000 computers across a hundred schools in six states.
Chennai band in Norway Saturday, October 8, 2005 | AY
'No Idea,' a city-based music band which emerged winner in the 'Levi's Great India Rock 2005' festival held in New Delhi, is all set to rock Norway later this month. The band, comprising sextet -- Aum, Shayne, Wayne, Videep, Nanditha and Rahul, will perform a string of shows in Norway along with 'Ricochets,' who have scored a top ten placing on the Norway rock charts. The dream of touring abroad became a reality for 'No Idea' when they were selected from over 300 bands at the Levi's Great Indian Rock 2005, organised by 'Rock Stree Journal,' magazine. Stating that this was the first time that a band from Chennai had the opportunity to win honours in the international level, 'No Idea' had been selected by an eminent jury comprising Dream Theatre's John Myung and members of Grammy winning Norwegian band WE.
Sivakaasi Wednesday, October 5, 2005 | AY
Sri Surya movies are bringing out the film "Sivakaasi". Vijay and Asin are pairing up in this film. Nayantara appears in one song. Vijay’s mother, an expert playback singer, has performed a number in this film. Srikanth Deva is the music director in this film.
A new security product launched in Chennai Wednesday, October 5, 2005 | AY
A new product designed by a Canadian company to protect people and property from violent crimes has been launched in Chennai. The manufacturers claim it is ordinary glass strengthened by the application of a micro thin polyester laminate that can resist bullets and even withstand a fairly powerful bomb blast. In such cases the laminate holds broken glass fragments together to protect people from injuries due to lethal shards. The Tamil Nadu police department will be the first target of the manufacturers as it is said to be ideal for riot control vehicles. Distributors are also looking at neighbouring Andhra Pradesh where it could come in handy for the State Police Grey Hounds in their fight against the Naxals.
SS Music to start hunt for VJ on Oct 5 Tuesday, October 4, 2005 | AY
The Southern Spice Music (SSmusic), 24-hour multi-lingual music channel, today announced the launch of VJ Factor2, a hunt for channel VJs in South India. The first round of audition would be held here on October 5 and second round comprising the finalists for Coimbatore would take place the next day. Newer programming formats required fresh talents, who would not only feel comfortable with English as the language of the channel, but also with the other four South Indian languages of Tamil, Malayalam, Telugu and Kannada. Three each would be selected from the seven centres through audition and these 21 would compete against each other in the grand finale to be held in Chennai towards mid-November. The panel of judges would include Channel VJs, music directors, photographers, cine stars and city socialites.
TBT-based paints affect marine organisms Tuesday, October 4, 2005 | AY
The contamination caused by toxic tributyltin (TBT)-based paints used in ships and other vessels as an effective anti-fouling agent, exceeded the safe limits, badly affecting aquatic organisms including mussels and crustaceans in the coastal waters near Chennai, Tuticorin and Marmagao harbours. The concentration observed in the coastal waters ranged from 1-30 ng/litre (nanogram per litre) in six samples analysed from Tuticorin harbour with the majority of samples exceeding the safe limit of two ng/litre. In 1990, based on the recommendation by the IMO's Marine Environment Protection (MEPC), the IMO decided to develop a legally binding international convention for global ban on the application of such paints on ships by Jan 1, 2003 and complete the prohibition by Jan 1, 2008. Till date, 12 countries with a tonnage of 8.72 per cent have signed the convention. India is yet to ratify the convention.
Chennai attracts tech cos for R&D Monday, October 3, 2005 | AY
Chennai is now the destination of choice for global technology majors. Alcatel, Nokia, Extreme Networks are some of the big technology majors who have zeroed in on Chennai for high-end research and development work. The trend started with the Finnish mobile phone manufacturing major, Nokia Corporation. French telecom major Alcatel decided to join the bandwagon. Last month, C-DOT Alcatel Research Centre, a Rs 212 crore joint venture between Alcatel and Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) was inaugurated in Chennai. Technology majors agree that Chennai is ideal for high-end R&D work primarily for the abundance of high quality manpower in the city. Quality infrastructure in Chennai and the proactive support from the Tamil Nadu government have aided in luring technology companies to Chennai. In May this year, Nasdaq-listed Extreme Networks opened a research and development (R&D) centre in Chennai. The centre, which is the third R&D centre of the company globally, is expected to be Extreme Networks’ fastest growing centre. Nevertheless, the icing on the cake would be when global software major, Intel, decides to build its testing and packaging facility in Chennai. With so many technology companies making a beeline for Chennai, employment opportunities have certainly shot up.
Chandramukhi completing 200 days in TN Monday, October 3, 2005 | AY
Blockbuster film – Chandramukhi, has successfully completed its 200 day run in Tamil Nadu. The event also announced the launch of new audio VCDs which have the film's background score and its making. The proceeds from the sale of these collectibles will go to the Prabhu-Shivaji trust, a charitable organization run by the producers. Amidst the media publishing reports that the movie collected a gross of over 100 crores worldwide, the producers now claim that the movie is the 28 th higher grosser amongst all films worldwide (including Hollywood) this year. This claim is hard to verify, but if true is something that the South Indian film fraternity should be proud of. But, the fact remains that Chandramukhi is the highest grossing Indian films this year, beating Yash Raj Film's Bunty Aur Babli which grossed over 47 crores worldwide at the boxoffice.
New Zealand Education Fair in Chennai Sunday, October 2, 2005 | AY
'New Zealand Education Fair 2005', showcasing the best of New Zealand education, was conducted in Chennai on October 1 (Saturday) at Hotel Taj Coromandel. Students and parents got an opportunity to interact with representatives from around 23 educational institutions across New Zealand. Universities in New Zealand offer courses ranging from Business Studies, Engineering, IT & Computing, Food & Dairy Technology, to Plant Science and Horticulture, Hospitality & Hotel Management, Nursing, Forestry, Sports Management etc. Expert counsellors present at the Education Fair handled queries regarding visa, accommodation, fees, food, climate, support services and other related topics. These institutions offer courses of study accredited by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority, and are signatories to New Zealand's mandatory Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of International Students. In the last five years, over 5,000 Indian students have qualified from various colleges in New Zealand.
MSP to set up 2 IT parks Sunday, October 2, 2005 | AY
Maan Sarovar Properties (MSP), the city-based construction group, today announced the launch of two major IT Park projects, involving an investment of Rs 200 crore. The two parks would provide a total space of 800,000 sq ft, adhering to high quality standards. Maan Sarovar Heights,'' dubbed as the Gateway of IT corridor would be ready for 'fit outs' by early June, "Maan Sarovar Techno Creek" would be ready by March 2006. The "Heights" was a ten-storeyed project, each floor having a space of 40,000 sq ft was being built at Kottivakkam, about 1.5 km from Tidel Park. It would have a total built up area of 400,000 sq ft and parking facility for more than 500 vehicles. The "Techno Creek" was designed as a campus style development with a massive frontage of more than 350 ft.
Channakyaa Saturday, October 1, 2005 | AY
'Channakyaa', directed by A. Venkatesh has a star cast of Sarath Kumar, Namitha, Vadivelu, Sita, Salim Ghouse, V.M. Haneefa, Laya. The first half of the film is filled with fights and songs. The second half contains the flashback after which the real story starts. Vadivelu’s comedy is sprinkled here and there in this film. Though this film resembles old revenge-filled movies, Venkatesh’s projection makes it slightly different. Ganesh (Sarath Kumar) is an auto driver who really cares for poor and oppressed people. His auto owner is Deivanayaki (Namitha) who falls in love with him. In such a situation, Anjali (Laya) enters into the scene. She pretends to be an ad film maker who insists on Sarath doing a movie for her. She is a cop in disguise, and her real motive is to investigate Sarath’s past.
Sarathbabu in Bollywood Saturday, October 1, 2005 | AY
Sarathbabu is a well known actor in the Tamil film, is into Bollywood now. He is playing a major role in Rakhi in which Zaved Khan is the hero. Smitha Jayakar is to act along with Sarathbabu. This film is directed by Suresh Khanna. His other film which became famous was Baksha and Sathya. Though Sarath was a popular star in the Tamil film world it has took him more that three hard years to shift into Bollywood.
Azhagai Irukkirai, Bayamai Irukkiradhu Saturday, October 1, 2005 | AY
After "Iqbal", Indian cricket will figure again as a cinematic theme in the under-production Tamil film "Azhagai Irukkirai, Bayamai Irukkiradhu" with Arun playing the cricketer-hero. This, however, won't be the first Tamil film with a cricketing theme. Madhavan was a cricketer, aspiring for a place in India XI, with Vineeth as his rival in "Priyamaana Thozhi". Former India captain and swashbuckling opener 'Krish' Srikkanth made a guest appearance in the film. Arun says that prominent filmmaker Cheran had persuaded him to accept the cricketer's role in the film, being directed by Vijay Milton. Bharat and Mallika Kapoor also star in the film.
CellarStone Inc acquires Chennai firm Saturday, October 1, 2005 | AY
US-based CellarStone Inc, a software development and consulting company, announced acquisition of a software firm in Chennai and said it would hire over 200 people by the end of next year. The company also said it had plans to become a 100 million US dollar firm in the next five years. CellarStone Inc has acquired 51 per cent in the Chennai-based software development firm TechnoPundit Systems Pvt Ltd, which employs 70 plus. The acquired company has been renamed as CellarStone India Pvt Ltd, which will be the primary research and development centre for CellarStone Inc. TechnoPundit has been partnered with CellarStone in the past five years to provide development, consulting and outsourcing services. The rationale behind the acquisition was to provide a great solution to the small and medium business segment in the US market, where the company has identified huge opportunities and was also aiming to garner a leading position among business solutions.
Nadal to play in India's Chennai open Saturday, October 1, 2005 | AY
World No. 2 Rafael Nadal will play at the season-opening 400,000-dollar ATP Chennai Open in January. The teenage sensation confirmed his participation this week in the 11th edition of India's only ATP event to be held on the Nungambakkam stadium hard courts in the southern city of Chennai from January 2-8. It will be Nadal's second appearance in the tournament, having played and lost in the first round in 2004 to Frenchman Thierry Ascione before teaming up with Spanish compatriot Tommy Robredo to win the doubles title. Nadal had a splendid 2005 during which he won 10 titles, including the French Open, to hold the number two ranking behind Roger Federer.
College student creates a granite bike Saturday, October 1, 2005 | AY
A college student in Chennai has manufactured a bike made of granite. Twenty-year-old Sandesh's creation, a 350 CC single-seater 'Edifice' bike, is different in several ways, as it challenges a few structural concepts such as rear suspension. The young inventor, who took 50 days to make the bike, is a student of the Anna University of Chennai. Granite takes good polishing and it is also hard. It can take a lot of vibrations as compared to other stones. Sandesh spent rupees 1.5 lakh (3,418 dollars) for the mechanical components and rupees 50,000/- to 60,000/- (1,139 to 1,367 dollars) for the granite used in the making of this bike.
