The Indian Panorama

Year: 2015

  • MOVIE REVIEW – NH10

    MOVIE REVIEW – NH10

    REVIEW: So, NH10 is a film you both hate and love. Meera (Anushka) and Arjun (Neil) are a happy yuppie couple living in a Gurgaon of multinationals, malls and molesters. The duo gets a gun after Meera narrowly escapes an attack one night. Deciding to take a road-trip, they head down NH10 – and see an eloping couple caught and savagely beaten at a roadside dhaba by a gang.

    When Arjun intervenes, rustic Satbir (Darshan) slaps him, snarling the girl’s his sister. Despite Meera’s pleading, Arjun grabs their gun and follows the gang, only to witness the couple’s brutal ‘honour’ killing. What happens when Meera and he are discovered by the gang?And when, by mistake, the yuppies kill a village lad?

    It’s easy to hate NH10 while watching it because it’s one of the most terrifying Hindi films ever – while simultaneously, you love its brilliance. The film’s story, apparently inspired by Eden Lake, is truly taut, no moment letting you relax, no layer – like Meera’s vulnerability against both Arjun’s ego and the vicious gang – comforting. Every performance delivers a punch, Anushka excelling as Meera on whose glossy life dark horror descends, her acting as remarkable as her commitment to produce this film which has no band, baaja, baraat – only brutality.

    There are constant twists (cops backing caste laws over India’s law) and spots which you imagine offer some rest, like Meera meeting a lady sarpanch Ammaji (Deepti Naval), packing away a girl’s clothes, only bring new shocks. Sound itself – heart throbbing, water dripping, the wail of a song dying on an eerie wind somewhere – becomes a fearsome character here. The stark cinematography delves parched ravines and pale mustard fields, one shot – a highway sheeted in blue moonlight, covered with stars, dotted by thorns -magical beauty.

    Its cutting-edge finesse ensures NH10 puts your nerves through a shredder. Small plot quibbles aside -would a young yuppie really endanger himself and his wife to chase a gang of murderous hoods he met five minutes ago? – NH10 is not a movie for the faint-hearted or those wanting a fun filmi frolic. This is a dark tale from beyond ‘the aakhri mall, where democracy ends’, where jeeps become beasts and where there are no dividers between hunters, hunted and haunted.

    NH10 is a relentless thriller you wish you could see with your eyes closed – because truly, as its song goes, chill gaye naina.

  • ‘UDTA PUNJAB’ TO FOCUS ON DRUG PROBLEMS IN PUNJAB

    ‘UDTA PUNJAB’ TO FOCUS ON DRUG PROBLEMS IN PUNJAB

    Udta Punjab, the upcoming project from Phantom Films, will focus on the drug problem in the state through four different stories. Udta Punjab”, the upcoming project from Phantom Films, will focus on the drug problem in the state through four different stories.

    Directed by Abhishek Chaubey of Dedh Ishqiya fame, the film is currently in its shooting stage with Kareena Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Shahid Kapoor and Diljit Dosanjh in the lead roles.

    “Udta Punjab is a story of four different people merged together. There are four different stories and four different perspectives. It is set in Punjab and talks about the drug scenario. It is the first Hindi film to deal with the issue,” producer is a story of four different people merged together. There are four different stories and four different perspectives. It is set in Punjab and talks about the drug scenario. It is the first Hindi film to deal with the issue,” producer Vikramaditya Motwane said.

    The film has grabbed attention for its star cast that also includes former couple Shahid and Kareena.

    “Udta Punjab has a brilliant script. When we read it, we decided to produce the film at one go. All the four stars in the film are brilliant. Shahid and Kareena are in a different section. They are not working together,” he said. The film also marks the debut of Punjabi superstar Diljit. “He is a brilliant actor. He has a huge fan following in Punjab,” Motwane said.

    Phantom film’s upcoming outing is Hunterrr, a coming-of-age comedy about a lustful guy and his journey.

    Motwane said he and his team were very impressed after watching the film and decided to back the project as they found it very funny.

    “I saw it after the shooting was over. We have worked with Harshvardhan Kulkarni (director) in Hasee to Phasee as he was the writer of the film. We thought it was superb and funny,” the Udaan helmer said.

    Hunterrr, releasing this Friday, stars Gulshan Devaiah, Radhika Apte and Sai Tamhankar in lead roles.

    Motwane, who last directed Sonakshi Sinha-Ranveer Singh starrer Lootera, said he is busy as a producer throughout the year but will return to writing for his next project as Bhavesh Joshi was shelved.

  • I WANT TO RUN AROUND TREES: GAUAHAR KHAN

    I WANT TO RUN AROUND TREES: GAUAHAR KHAN

    Gauahar Khan is set for not one, but two film releases this year, where she plays the lead —Punjabi film (Oh Yaara Ainvayi Ainvayi Lut Gaya) and Bollywood movie Fever). “They will release around the same time, which is in a couple of months and the best part is that my look is diametrically opposite in both,” she says.

    Her Punjabi film is a love story and a full-on commercial entertainer. So, how did the film come about? “I was getting a lot of offers from regional cinema. As an actor, I have never restricted myself from doing things other than Bollywood. I have done Zangoora for two-and-a-half years. It’s a live stage show and the world’s biggest musical. I did Bigg Boss. The fact that I got such a fabulous script where I’m paired opposite Jassi Gill, a superstar in Punjabi cinema, made me take it up. I obviously couldn’t take this route in Bollywood because this industry tests you a lot! I had to prove my mettle as an actor and that’s why I’ve done more character-centric roles, be it Rocket Singh: Salesman of the Year, Ishaqzaade and Game, two of which were critically acclaimed.”

    Learning Punjabi wasn’t a problem for her. She says, “Jassi Gill really helped me with that. Everyone on set says I am the expat that never was an expat. I am a hardcore Punjaban!” Her look in Oh Yaara…, is Indian, very different from what people associate her with. “People have not seen me like this… a girl with her dupatta flying, kheton mein bhaag rahi hai. I should be getting a lot more roles after this. I’m looking forward to that. I want to run around trees!”

  • SOFIA VERGARA PICKS DATE TO TIE THE KNOT

    SOFIA VERGARA PICKS DATE TO TIE THE KNOT

    Sofia Vergara has revealed that she and her fiance Joe Manganiello have already fixed their wedding date, but the planning procedure is still under process.

    The ‘Chef’ actress said while promoting her hit TV show ‘Modern Family’ at Paleyfest 2015, that choosing the right day wasn’t that difficult as she and her 38-year-old actor fiance knew since the beginning that which date would it be, E! Online reported.

    The 42-year-old actress added that her marriage with the ‘Magic Mike’ actor would obviously going to be the most important thing in her life, that’s why she had been trying to make every thing right.

  • HILARY DUFF FLAUNTS BIKINI BODY ONLINE

    HILARY DUFF FLAUNTS BIKINI BODY ONLINE

    Actress Hilary Duff took to social media to share an image of herself in an itsy-bitsy bikini, which shows off her toned body.

    She shared the image on Instagram on March 15. The actress of “A Cinderella Story” fame is seen sans make-up, and has wet hair. As for her bikini, it’s a black scallop one teamed with very low-riding bottoms, reports aceshowbiz.com.

    The mother-of-one captioned the image as “Hey #moms #westillgotit #loveyourbod.”

    Duff, who is currently vacationing with her girl friends, posted another photograph of herself with her two-year-old son Luca kissing on the beach.

    “Never knew love before,” she wrote alongside it. Over the weekend, the actress shared some photographs of her getaway. One of them showed her taking a dip in the ocean, while in another, she is seen enjoying margarita with a female friend.

  • MOVIE REVIEW – CHAPPIE

    MOVIE REVIEW – CHAPPIE

    STORY: In the future, Johannesburg’s police use an army of armoured droids called Scouts, to combat criminals. Droid creator Deon (Patel) tries out a new AI (Artificial Intelligence) program on a damaged robot, which then develops a human personality.

    REVIEW: Deon, who works at a technology company, is a genius. The cubicle he sits in cannot contain his big ideas regarding robotics. Office bully Vincent (Jackman) has his own negative take on the dangers of AI and takes Deon’s case at any opportunity.

    When Deon tells his boring boss Michelle (Weaver) that he has discovered the key to AI, she in effect, calls him crazy. Incredulous but undeterred, he steals away a junked Scout along with his AI software but is waylaid by some criminals (Ninja and Yolandi) who want to capture and reprogram a Scout to ‘switch off’ the Scout army. Deon reprograms the robot and that’s when Chappie is born – a baby in a heavy metal body who then cycles through an accelerated adolescence.

    This is where the reference to 1987’s Robocop comes in -a breakaway police robot ‘adopted’ by the very people he was built to kill. Chappie calls Deon his ‘Maker’. Ninja and Yolandi are dubbed ‘Daddy’ and ‘Mummy’, respectively. Yolandi completely pampers Chappie like a doting mom, reading him bedtime stories and telling him about life after death and having a soul. Ninja teaches Chappie how to rob posh cars and shoot guns.

    There’s a lot going on in Chappie – a somewhat dystopian future where crime is so rampant that droids are required to take down thugs, a slightly deviant tale of what happens when a machine becomes self-aware with its own AI and subtexts regarding parenting.

    There’s the surreal touch – Blomkamp using a real-life cyberpunk rap-rave group Die Antwoord, comprising Ninja and Yolandi, whose colourful attire match their cuss words. Chappie’s innocence is strangely endearing. Patel is a natural as the nerd scientist. As a movie, Chappie is slightly bonkers (Jackman in cargo shorts, humans babying a robot, Copley’s voice intonations for his character, etc), but delightfully so.

  • ANNOYING HABITS THAT CAN RUIN YOUR RELATIONSHIP

    ANNOYING HABITS THAT CAN RUIN YOUR RELATIONSHIP

    There are a few habits that we sub-consciously indulge in that could badly harm our relationships.

    Here’s a rundown…

    Nagging

    Nobody likes a nagger. In fact it could potentially be toxic for a lot of your relationships. It’s important to let your partner be and not interfere as much. There’s a thin line between being cute and being annoying, know when to draw that line or it can be destructive for your relationship.

    Comparing

    Learn to appreciate your partner and love him or her for what they are instead of constantly comparing them to every Tom, Dick and Harry. Even if you’re doing it subconsciously in your head- stop. And mentioning it to them is an absolute no-no. Your partner deserves better than that.

    Talking about your ex

    Nobody would like to feel like they’re constantly being held up for comparison with your previous lovers. A sure way of ruining your own relationship is by continually bringing up your past liaisons. Till your both reach a stage of security, steer clear of this topic.

    Bad communication

    Only half-listening to your partner and nodding your head for everything without really paying much attention can be detrimental for your relationship in the long run.

    Work on your communication and try to really listen and grasp what your partner is talking about to you.

    Bringing up the past

    Avoid discussing the past. Its important to realize that no matter how much you discuss it or bring it up, it cannot be erased. If you truly want to be with your partner, then make a concerted effort to forget his/her past and move on to newer beginnings.

    Remember that you are his/her present.

  • WAYS TO REUSE TIN CANS

    WAYS TO REUSE TIN CANS

    Ladle stand 

    If you don’t have kids at home or a study table where you can place a pen stand, you can use tin cans as a stand for either some of your toiletries, spoons, forks or ladles in the kitchen. Just cut the top off and wrap the can in a jute cloth or a coloured paper of your choice. Then, write what the can holds on the cloth or paper in order to make it appear customized and valuable.

    Dessert container 

    If you love whipping up mouth-watering cold desserts like chocolate mousse and have guests over often, you could use tin cans as containers for your preparations. If the average tin can is too tall to hold your dessert, just cut each of the cans into half and paint or wrap them with a fabric of your choice. So, when you serve your refrigerator-cold desserts, your guests needn’t struggle to hold the container as the fabric will keep their hands warm while they dig into the dessert.

    Speaker set 

    If you have two tin cans of the same shape and size, turn them into speakers, stands or holders for your portable mini speakers. While turning them into speakers is a laborious process, using them as stands is a lot easier. Just cut the lid of your tin can, paint it in the pattern of your choice and then fit your speakers in. You could even paint them both with a base colour and draw out notes or sound waves to make the speakers look interesting.

    Candle mould/stand 

    If you’re into candle-making, just use old tin cans as both moulds and containers. If you wish to place your candle as is, just line the tin can with a generous amount of oil before you pour the melted wax in. Once the candle is set, flip the can and a smooth or ridged candle will slide out, depending on the pattern inside the can. However, if you wish to gift the candle, you could paint the can in a colour of your choice and tie a satin ribbon around it. Let your candle set.

  • HOME WORKOUTS FOR WOMEN

    HOME WORKOUTS FOR WOMEN

    Walking/Running: They help to relieve stress, improve your heart health, reduce the risk of depression, burn mega calories and improve your overall health. They also help build strong, toned legs. For weight loss, a brisk walk for more than 20 mins has been proven beneficial.

    Squats

    Squats are a compound, full-body exercise that work more than one muscle group. This powerful exercise helps tone your butt, strengthen your body and burn a lot of calories. To boost your calorie expenditure, you can try to do jump squats. If you’re still a beginner try to hold isometric squats against the wall for some time.

    Pushups

    Pushups can works wonders for your body. They work muscles in the shoulders, arms and also engage the core. Start with baby push ups with your knees on the floor and once you gain strength you can chose difficult variations.

    Lunges

    Lunges give amazing results because they isolate every leg individually, helping transform your body. Walking lunges are a great way to shape legs and lose extra flab around the butt and thighs. Later you can start doing it with weights or by alternating it with jumps.

    Cycling

    Cycling it is a foolproof way to work your legs. It strengthens your legs, arms and back, encourages your heart to work more efficiently and aids in weight loss. Always wear a helmet on the road to ensure safety though. So now you can do these workouts at home and start losing weight.

  • Healthy diet cuts heart attack risk

    Healthy diet cuts heart attack risk

    People who adapt their daily diet can reduce their risk of a heart attack or a stroke by up to a third, shows a new study by King’s College London.

    For the study, healthy middle-aged and older men and women were engaged to compare the effects on risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) of following a healthy diet compared to a traditional diet.

    The risk of CVD over the next 10 years for the participants was estimated to be about 8 percent in the men and 4 percent in the women.

    “We show that adherence to current dietary guidelines which advocate a change in dietary pattern from the traditional British diet (high in saturated fat, salt and sugar, low in fibre, oily fish and fruit and vegetables) would substantially lower that risk,” said Tom Sanders from King’s College London.

    In the study that appeared in American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, researchers measured the blood pressure, vascular function and CVD risk factors in 162 healthy non-smoking men and women in a control group.

    Those on the modified diet ate oily fish once a week, more fruit and vegetables, replaced refined with wholegrain cereals.

    The average body weight in the group who followed the modified diet fell by 1.3 kg while that in the control group rose by 0.6 kg after 12 weeks.

    Significant falls in systolic blood pressure/diastolic blood pressure of 4.2/2.5 mm Hg for daytime and 2.9/1.9 mm Hg for night time were measured in the dietary group compared with the control group.

    The cholesterol levels also fell by 8 percent.

    “Overall, healthy men and women aged 40 and over who adapt their daily diet reduce their risk of heart disease by up to a third,” concluded the study.

  • MYTHS ABOUT ACIDITY

    MYTHS ABOUT ACIDITY

    Very often, after a heavy meal, we usually pop an antacid to curb that burning sensation in our chest. After a few hours it disappears and we completely forget about it.

    But, if these symptoms occur time and again, then you definitely have something to worry about. Commonly called Gastroesophageal Reflux, the condition is characterized by passage of digestive foods and stomach acids up into the esophagus due to a weakened esophageal sphincter. However, there are certain misconceptions and half-truths that act as barriers for the proper cure of this condition.

    Here they are…

    Milk eases acid reflux

    FACT: Although, many people recommend milk for soothing the pain of heartburn, the results are actually quite the opposite. It is true that drinking a glass of milk can temporarily ease a troubled stomach by neutralizing the acids. But, the calcium in milk later triggers the production of more stomach acids thereby adding to the original problem. Furthermore, milk is known to be very difficult to digest and to get rid of it, the stomach has to produce extra acids eventually causing more reflux.

    Acid reflux medications should be taken for life

    FACT: Contrary to what most medicine manufacturers would like you to believe, it is best to steer clear of acid reflux medications as much as possible. This is because the effects of taking such drugs last only for a short while and the symptoms usually return. Moreover, such continuous usage of pills makes a person more prone to developing certain long term side effects. This includes pneumonia and certain bone-related conditions. Hence, try to find some alternative treatment mode with your physician for curing this condition.

    Avoid coffee and acidic beverages

    FACT: Avoiding the use of caffeine products like coffee or tea should not be imposed on all reflux patients. Although, coffee may trigger the condition in some, there is absolutely no requirement for all patients to stop drinking it. If such products affect your stomach health, then you should surely discontinue their consumption, but if it doesn’t, moderation in use should be practiced. Likewise, you should refrain from using acidic beverages like orange juice and alcohol only if they trigger the condition in you. Otherwise, you may continue in moderation.

    Avoiding spicy food is a must

    FACT: Probably, one of the most common myths associated with acid reflux is that once you are diagnosed with the condition, you have to live your entire life on non-spicy bland food. As with caffeine and acidic products or beverages, moderation in use is the best option. Unless the specific product triggers acid reflux in you, there is no point in giving up and eating a bland limited diet. Instead of giving up on your favorite comfort foods, try to find a balance in your diet habits, avoiding only those that affect your stomach health.

    Only people with poor diets have the condition

    FACT: Although, the incidence of acid reflux is quite common, researchers are yet to completely understand the mechanism of occurrence. Certain triggering agents may initiate reflux in some people which may not cause the condition in other individuals. You may eat the right foods and lead a healthy lifestyle but still you might end up with acid reflux.

  • NASA MISSION DETECTS MYSTERIOUS DUST CLOUD ON MARS

    NASA MISSION DETECTS MYSTERIOUS DUST CLOUD ON MARS

    WASHINGTON (TIP): Nasa’s Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution (MAVEN) spacecraft has observed mysterious high-altitude dust cloud and aurora that reaches deep into the Martian atmosphere.

    The presence of the dust at orbital altitudes from 150 km to 300 km above the surface was not predicted earlier.

    Although the source and composition of the dust are unknown, there is no hazard to MAVEN and other spacecraft orbiting Mars.

    “If the dust originates from the atmosphere, this suggests we are missing some fundamental process in the Martian atmosphere,” said Laila Andersson from the University of Colorado’s Laboratory for Atmospherics and Space Physics (CU LASP), Boulder, Colorado.

    It is unknown if the cloud is a temporary phenomenon or something long lasting.

    The cloud density is greatest at lower altitudes.

    However, even in the densest areas, it is still very thin.

    So far, no indication of its presence has been seen in observations from any of the other MAVEN instruments.

    Possible sources for the observed dust include dust wafted up from the atmosphere; dust coming from Phobos and Deimos, the two moons of Mars; dust moving in the solar wind away from the sun; or debris orbiting the sun from comets.

    However, no known process on Mars can explain the appearance of dust in the observed locations from any of these sources.

    Earlier, MAVEN’s Imaging Ultraviolet Spectrograph (IUVS) observed what scientists have named “Christmas lights”.

    “What is especially surprising about the aurora we saw is how deep in the atmosphere it occurs – much deeper than at Earth or elsewhere on Mars,” added Arnaud Stiepen from the University of Colorado.

    The source of the energetic particles appears to be the sun.

    Billions of years ago, Mars lost a global protective magnetic field like Earth has, so solar particles can directly strike the atmosphere.

    The electrons producing the aurora have about 100 times more energy than you get from a spark of house current, so they can penetrate deeply in the atmosphere.

    The findings were presented at the 46th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference in the Woodlands, Texas recently.

  • Minor planet in solar system may have Saturn-like rings

    WASHINGTON (TIP): Scientists have detected a possible Saturn-like ring system around the minor planet Chiron, making it the sixth such object in our solar system.

    There are only five bodies in our solar system that are known to bear rings. The most obvious is Saturn; to a lesser extent, rings of gas and dust also encircle Jupiter, Uranus and Neptune.

    Scientists recently detected a ring system around Chariklo, one of a class of minor planets called centaurs.

    Now scientists at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and elsewhere have detected a possible ring system around a second centaur, Chiron.

    In November 2011, the group observed a stellar occultation in which Chiron passed in front of a bright star, briefly blocking its light.

    The researchers analysed the star’s light emissions, and the momentary shadow created by Chiron, and identified optical features that suggest the centaur may possess a circulating disk of debris.

    The team believes the features may signify a ring system, a circular shell of gas and dust, or symmetric jets of material shooting out from the centaur’s surface.

    “It’s interesting, because Chiron is a centaur – part of that middle section of the solar system, between Jupiter and Pluto, where we originally weren’t thinking things would be active, but it’s turning out things are quite active,” said Amanda Bosh, a lecturer in MIT’s Department of Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences.

    Chiron, discovered in 1977, was the first planetary body categorised as a centaur, after the mythological Greek creature – a hybrid of man and beast.

    Like their mythological counterparts, centaurs are hybrids, embodying traits of both asteroids and comets. Researchers obtained precise observations of Chiron, using two large telescopes in Hawaii.

    They observed symmetrical, sharp features near the start and end of the stellar occultation – a sign that material such as dust might be blocking a fraction of the starlight.

    The researchers observed two such features, each about 300 kilometres from the centre of the centaur.

    In light of these new observations, the researchers said that Chiron may possess symmetrical jets of gas and dust.

    However, other interpretations may be equally valid, including the
    “intriguing possibility,” Bosh said, of a shell or ring of gas and dust.

    Researchers said it is possible to imagine a scenario in which centaurs may form rings: For example, when a body breaks up, the resulting debris can be captured gravitationally around another body, such as Chiron.

  • ARTIFICIAL LIGHT HURTS BODY’S SLEEP AND WAKE CYCLE

    WASHINGTON (TIP): Inadequate exposure to natural light during the day and overexposure to artificial light at night can actually mess up our body’s natural sleep/wake cycle, researchers say. “It’s become clear that typical lighting is affecting our physiology,” said Richard Stevens, cancer epidemiologist at the University of Connecticut. “But lighting can be improved. We’re learning that better lighting can reduce these physiological effects. By that we mean dimmer and longer wavelengths in the evening, and avoiding the bright blue of e-readers, tablets or smartphones,” said Stevens.

    Those devices emit enough blue light when used in the evening to suppress the sleep-inducing hormone melatonin and disrupt the body’s circadian rhythm, the biological mechanism that enables restful sleep. Stevens and co-author Yong Zhu from Yale University explained the known short-term and suspected long-term impacts of circadian disruption in an article in journal Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B. He said a study comparing people who used e-readers to those who read old-fashioned books in the evening showed a clear difference — the e-readers showed delayed melatonin onset.

  • TERMINATOR-INSPIRED 3D PRINTER GROWS OBJECTS FROM LIQUID

    VANCOUVER (TIP): A terrifying killer liquid metal robot portrayed in the movie ‘Terminator’, has inspired what was heralded here as a revolution in 3D printing. At the TED conference on Tuesday, chemist Joseph DeSimone displayed a 3D printer that let creations rise from pools of molten liquid in much the way the dreaded T-1000 robot from the second ‘Terminator’ film rose from a silvery puddle. “We were inspired by the ‘Terminator 2’ scene for the T-1000,” DeSimone said.

    DeSimone and co-inventors developed a technology they call Continuous Liquid Interface Production (CLIP) that harnesses powers of light and oxygen in a printer that brings designed objects quickly into existence from small reservoirs of elastic material with sophisticated properties. “We have a reservoir that holds the puddle like the T-1000,” DeSimone said. Printing finished parts at speeds competitive with current manufacturing processes is “a game changer,” he said. Current 3D printers rely on spraying layer upon layer of material, slowly building objects which takes hours. The time taken by such printers means it is not feasible to use resins that change chemically before the printing is finished. CLIP is 25 to 100 times faster than traditional 3D printers, and uses synthetic resins with mechanical properties strong enough to make them finished parts, said DeSimone. He saw the technology transforming manufacturing from cars, planes, and turbines to dental or surgical implants.

  • Soon, you may be told to use lift in emergencies

    In case of fire, use elevators.” It sounds like apostasy, as if a lifetime’s indoctrination had suddenly been invalidated. But it is exactly the instruction that office workers in New York’s tallest skyscrapers may receive in coming years. The fire department, buildings and city planning departments are planning occupant-evacuation elevators — cars that can, in special circumstances, be used to move people down in an emergency.

    That would upend the decade-old notion that elevators are perilous and undependable in fires or other emergencies. Experts also believe that building evacuations have become outmoded as extremely tall skyscrapers increasingly pierce the New York skyline. “We have to find a better way to evacuate people from high-rise buildings, including people with disabilities,” Edward T Ferrier, the deputy assistant chief of fire prevention, said.

  • CHAITRA NAVRATRI

    CHAITRA NAVRATRI

    Chaitra Navratri or Vasant Navratri signifies the start of the Indian or the Hindu new year i.e. the 1st day or Prathama tithi of the Chitra Sudi, every year.

    Navratri, the festival of nine nights is dedicated to Goddess Durga and her nine forms. The nine days have great religious significance as Goddess Durga, the divine mother, had destroyed the evil force (in the form of the demon Mahisashura) during this period.

    The festival is celebrated with true devotion and purity all over the country.

    People from various sections of the society irrespective of caste and creed celebrate this festival by visiting temples and offering pujas at the Mother’s feet.

    In some places special puja samarohas are also held by setting the images of Mother Durga on beautifully decorated pandals.

    Temples dedicated to Shakti also make arrangement for pujas and bratas to mark these nine days as true symbols of devotion and adoration towards the divine mother.

    As this Navratra coincides with Ram Navami, it also referred as Ram Navratri. The dates are from  March 21, 2015  to March 28, 2015.

    Vasant Navratri is observed in the Hindu month of Chaitra (March – April). It is believed that Goddess Durga was originally worshipped (Durga Puja) in the Chaitra month and was also referred as Basanti Puja. It was Lord Ram who changed the period of Durga Puja.

    The Story of Vasanta Navaratri

    In days long gone by, King Dooshibago was killed by a lion when he went out hunting. Preparations were made to crown the prince Sudarsana. But, King Yudhajit of Ujjain, the father of Queen Lilavati, and King Virasena of Kalinga, the father of Queen Manorama, were each desirous of securing the Kosala throne for their respective grandsons. They fought with each other. King Virasena was killed in the battle. Manorama fled to the forest with Prince Sudarsana and a eunuch. They took refuge in the hermitage of Rishi Bharadwaja.

    The victor, King Yudhajit, thereupon crowned his grandson, Satrujit, at Ayodhya, the capital of Kosala. He then went out in search of Manorama and her son. The Rishi said that he would not give up those who had sought protection under him. Yudhajit became furious. He wanted to attack the Rishi. But, his minister told him about the truth of the Rishi’s statement. Yudhajit returned to his capital.

    Fortune smiled on Prince Sudarsana. A hermit’s son came one day and called the eunuch by his Sanskrit name Kleeba. The prince caught the first syllable Kli and began to pronounce it as Kleem. This syllable happened to be a powerful, sacred Mantra. It is the Bija Akshara (root syllable) of the Divine Mother. The Prince obtained peace of mind and the Grace of the Divine Mother by the repeated utterance of this syllable. Devi appeared to him, blessed him and granted him divine weapons and an inexhaustible quiver. The emissaries of the king of Benares passed through the Ashram of the Rishi and, when they saw the noble prince Sudarsana, they recommended him to Princess Sashikala, the daughter of the king of Benares.

    The ceremony at which the princess was to choose her spouse was arranged. Sashikala at once chose Sudarsana. They were duly wedded. King Yudhajit, who had been present at the function, began to fight with the king of Benares. Devis helped Sudarsana and his father-in-law. Yudhajit mocked Her, upon which Devi promptly reduced Yudhajit and his army to ashes.

    Thus Sudarsana, with his wife and his father-in-law, praised Devi. She was highly pleased and ordered them to worship her with havan and other means during the Vasanta Navarathri. Then she disappeared.

    Prince Sudarsana and Sashikala returned to the Ashram of Rishi Bharadwaja. The great Rishi blessed them and crowned Sudarsana as the king of Kosala. Sudarsana and Sashikala and the king of Benares implicitly carried out the commands of the Divine Mother and performed worship in a splendid manner during the Vasanta Navarathri.

    Sudarsana’s descendants Sri Rama and Lakshmana also performed worship of Devi during the Sharad Navarathri and were blessed with Her assistance in the recovery of Sita.

    According to the Krittibas Ramayana, Rama invoked the goddess Durga in his epic battle against Ravana. Although Goddess Durga was traditionally worshipped in the late spring, due to contingencies of battle, Lord Rama had to invoke her in the form of astam (eighth) Mahavidya (Maa Bagla) in the autumn and thus is known as akaal bodhan (invoking out of scheduled time). This autumnal ritual was different from the conventional Durga Puja, which is usually celebrated in the springtime. So, this Puja is also known as ‘akal-bodhan’ or out-of-season (‘akal’) worship (‘bodhan’). This Rama’s date for the Navaratri puja has now gained ascendancy and culminates with Dusherra in North India on the following day.

    Why Celebrate Vasanta Navaratri?

    It is the duty of the devout Hindus to worship the Devi (Mother Goddess) for both material and spiritual welfare during the Vasanta Navaratri and follow the noble example set by Sudarsana and Sri Rama. He cannot achieve anything without the Divine Mother?s blessings. So, sing Her praise and repeat Her Mantra and Name. Meditate on Her form. Pray and obtain Her eternal Grace and blessings. May the Divine Mother bless you with all divine wealth!”

    Dates of Chaitra Navratri in 2015

    • Vasant Navratri Day 1 – Ghatsthapana – 21 March 2015
    • Vasant Navratri Day 2 – Sindhara Dooj, Dwitiya – 22 March 2015
    • Vasant Navratri Day 3 – Gaur Teej, Saubhagya Teej, Tritiya – 23 March 2015
    • Vasant Navratri Day 4 – Varadvinayak Chaturthi – 24 March 2015
    • Vasant Navratri Day 5 – Sri Laxmi Panchami Vrat, Naag Vrat Pujan – 25 March 2015
    • Vasant Navratri Day 6 – Skand Shashthi, Yamuna Jayanti – 26 March 2015
    • Vasant Navratri Day 7 – Mahasaptami Vrat, Chaiti Chat, Vijaya Saptami – 27 March 2015
    • Vasant Navratri Day 8 – Sri Durga Mahaashtami, Annapurna Ashtami – 28 March 2015
    • Vasant Navratri Day 9 – Vasant Navaratri ends, Ram Navami – 29 March 2015

    Celebration of all Navratri in a year is almost same. There is a special event followed by Hindus during Vasant Navaratri and Sharad Navaratri. It is of feeding little girls, below the age of nine, considering them the symbol of Goddess Durga and these girls are known as ‘Kanjaks’ in Haryana and Punjab and ”Kanya” at many other places. This event is performed on the eighth day and some people also perform it on ninth day. Apart from food, people also offer money and many other forms of gifts. Chaitra Navratri in 2015, like every year, is going to be celebrated during Basant Ritu (spring season), which is the time of March – April. That is why this festival is also called Vasant Navratri or Basant Navratri.

     

    This page is sponsored by ARISH SAHANI New York Life Insurance Agent 

    sahani108@gmail.com / 718 271 0453

  • THEKKADY – A LUXURIOUS STAY IN THE WILD

    THEKKADY – A LUXURIOUS STAY IN THE WILD

    Thekkady in Kerala, offers a great opportunity to find animal sightings in the deciduous forests along with some interesting luxury resorts…

    Around 185 kms from the Kochi airport, a traveler itinerary to Kerala cannot be complete without visiting Thekkady – the popular destination for visiting the Periyar National Park. Only around a distance of 2 hours from Munnar, Thekkady has an array of luxurious resorts located in the small town. Carmelia Haven, is one of them. With its tea plantations, spice plantations, luxurious independent cottages overlooking the swimming pool in the centre of the resort as you go down from your cottage, the resort is an ideal destination to experience comfort, luxury and calm in the wild.

    SIGHT SEEING – The Periyar Tiger Reserve

    Lying close to the plantations, in the rich jungles of Periyar in Thekkady is one of the world’s most fascinating natural wildlife reserves – the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Covering 777 sq. kilometres, of which 360 sq. kilometres is thick evergreen forest; the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978. Noted for its geomorphology, diversity of wildlife and scenic beauty, the Reserve attracts visitors from all over the world. The splendid artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar adds to the charm of the park. This is the only sanctuary in India where you can have the unique experience of viewing wildlife at close quarters from the safety of a boat on the lake. The greatest attraction of Periyar however are the herds of wild elephants that come down to play in the lake.

    Chellarkovil

    This sleepy little hamlet with its breathtaking view of the plains and cascading waterfalls is a veritable feast for the eyes. The village slopes down to the famous coconut groves of Cumbum in neighbouring Tamil Nadu. A must visit.

    Kumily

    This plantation town, closely associated with Thekkady, is situated on the outskirts of the Periyar Tiger Reserve. It is an important shopping centre and spice trade centre and is worth a visit.

    Ramakalmedu

    Undulating green hills and fresh mountain air make Ramakalmedu an enchanting retreat. The hilltop offers one a panoramic view of the picturesque villages of Bodi and Cumbum on the eastern slope of the western ghats.

    Pullumedu

    The meandering journey to this hill town, along the Periyar River, offers a stunning view of the rolling hills draped in lush greenery. Velvet lawns and rare flora and fauna add to the beauty of Pullumedu, which can be accessed only by jeep. The famous Sree Ayyappa Temple at Sabarimala and the Makara Jyothi illumination at the shrine are also visible from here. One needs to remember it is part of the restricted forest zone, so permission needs to be taken to visit here.

    Murikkady

    Washed in fresh spice-scented air, Murikkady is a panorama of cardamom, coffee and pepper plantations.THEKKADY 3

    Kurisumala

    This is the place to be if adventure tourism and trekking fascinates you. You can also treat yourself to a stunning view of Kumily town and the Periyar Tiger Reserve.

    Vandanmedu

    One of the world’s largest auction centers for cardamom, this place really grabs ones senses. A walk through the sprawling cardamom plantations of Vandanmedu is a heady experience.

    Vandiperiyar

    The River Periyar flowing through the centre of this town nourishes its vast tea, coffee and pepper plantations. A major trade centre, Vandiperiyar is also home to a number of tea factories. One should make a trip to the Government Agriculture Farm and Flower Garden and delight in the array of roses, orchids and anthuria.

    Spice Plantations Tour

    Inhale and exhale the lovely scents on this tour, as you visit the tea, coffee, cardamom, pepper and orange plantations, along with the stunning Anayirangal Dam.

    Trekking

    Thekkady is a lovely place to indulge in trekking. Kurisumala, Pullumedu and Ottakathalamedu near Kumily and Grampi near Vandiperiyar are ideal trekking places. One can also take the Forest Department daily treks from the boat landing station at Thekkady to the Nellikkampetty area and Manakkavala.

    Idukki Dam

    One of the highest arch dams in Asia and the only arch dam in India, the Idukki Dam, at 167.68 metres, is built on the Periyar River, in the ravine between the Kuravan and Kurathi Hills. It supports a 780 MW hydroelectric power station maintained by the Kerala State Electricity Board. One can take a trip to Idukki Town, a small hill town surrounded by beautiful, wooded valleys and meandering streams. This small place is famous for the Wildlife Sanctuary located at Thodupuzha, about 450-748 metres above sea level and spread over 77 sq. kilometres. At this sanctuary one can meet a host of wild animals, which include elephants, bison, sambar deer, wild dogs, jungle cats, tigers, wild boars etc. and a number of birds like the Great Indian hornbill, paradise flycatcher, whistling thrush, bulbuls, laughing thrush, hill myna, jungle fowl, pigeons. A trip that is really worth it.THEKKADY 2

    Elephant Ride

    With a name like Tusker Trails, one can’t help but conjure up images of the beautiful beasts. One can take elephant rides through the jungle and really enjoy the beauty that is Thekkady.

    Mangala Devi Temple

    This ancient temple is hidden in the dense woods at the top of a peak 1,337 metres above sea level. Built in the traditional Kerala style of architecture, this place is open to the public only once in a year during the Chitra Poornima festival. One should truly make the most of it.

  • World Cup 2015: India thrash Bangladesh to enter semifinals

    World Cup 2015: India thrash Bangladesh to enter semifinals

    MELBOURNE (TIP): The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) danced to the roll of drums when the players took the field. Then came the beat of the dhols as India began batting, followed by what sounded like a jugalbandi between the two. After a while, cacophony prevailed.

    India won the toss and elected to bat first. The dhols grew louder. Bangladesh got Shikhar Dhawan for 30. The drumbeats took over. Virat Kohli departed for just three.

    The drumming turned into a frenzy. Suresh Raina joined Rohit Sharma. The dhols were back. A 122-run partnership gave India the momentum. The drumbeats gradually went silent. Rohit Sharma came up with a classy 137. The dhols reverberated in the sky.

    The cacophony was melody to India’s ears as they beat Bangladesh by 109 runs on Thursday to enter the semifinals. They will now play the winner of the clash between Australia and Pakistan in Sydney on March 26.

    Sweat rolled down thick coats of maroon and green painted on the faces of Bangladesh fans who arrived earlier than those manning the MCG gates in the afternoon. By the time the match approached its end, they were the ones who left early, trying to avoid the exiting MCG rush that would be full of partying Indians.

    To the Mumbai boy they all raised a toast, chanting ‘Rohit, Rohit’ in praise of a century that put India on course to victory. Along with Dhawan, the elegant Sharma was patient in approach. The first 50 runs took 10 overs to come and India had 75 on the board when they lost the first wicket.

    Virat Kohli joined Rohit but left soon, making way for Ajinkya Rahane who did not stay too long either. The MCG pitch, while resembled a neat highway, turned out to be trickier than expected. And it wasn’t until the in-form Suresh Raina walked in that a partnership of value began.

    Raina took the initiative, finding gaps that were in plenty and then Rohit Rohit decided to cut loose. A healthy 202 runs came in the last 24.1 overs. In the end, India cruised, strolled and crawled past 300, a target that has never been chased at the massive ‘G’.

    Bangladesh began on a positive note, particularly opener Tamim Iqbal smashing three fours off a rattled Mohammed Shami in the fourth over. But the pressure of a chase under lights proved too heavy for Bangladesh.

    A very disciplined Umesh Yadav, bowling at good pace, picked 4-37 while Shami and Ravindra Jadeja shared two each. It was R Ashwin, though, who ended up being the most economical as India won comfortably.

  • Roger Federer advances to quarterfinals at Indian Wells

    Roger Federer advances to quarterfinals at Indian Wells

    INDIAN WELLS (United States) (TIP): Four-time winner Roger Federer defeated American Jack Sock 6-3, 6-2 to reach the quarterfinals of the WTA and ATP Indian Wells tournament on March 18.

    “The first set was really good tennis,” Federer said. “I played well throughout and was able to serve better than Jack today.”

    Federer blasted eight aces, had no double faults and broke Sock three times in the 69-minute match.

    He clinched the victory when Sock slammed a backhand into the net on match point.

    The Swiss star next faces Czech ninth seed Tomas Berdych. “The opponents are getting tougher as you get into the back end of the tournament,” Federer said.

    Federer and Berdych have met 18 times with the Swiss holding a 12-6 lead. They met last year in the Dubai final where Federer won in three sets.

  • India’s new hockey coach Paul van Ass takes charge

    NEW DELHI (TIP): The Netherlands’ Paul van Ass on Monday resumed duties as Indian men’s hockey team’s chief coach as the eight-time Olympic champions underwent their first practice session under the Dutchman at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium.

    Van Ass officially joined his new job on Sunday but the 54-year-old Dutchman took charge of the team on March 24, supervising a two-hour long practice session of 30 players held in preparation for the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup to be held in Ipoh, Malaysia from April 5-12.

    According to a team official, Van Ass was officially introduced to the players during breakfast on Monday morning.

    “It was a light intensity training today as it was Paul’s (van Ass) first outing with the players. Today, he was focused on observing all the players and getting a fair bit of idea about their strengths and weaknesses,” the official said.

    “In his first training session, Paul’s emphasis was more on the technical aspect of the game. The players also underwent drills on scoring goals.”

    Apart from Van Ass, coaches Jude Felix and Sandeep Sangwan and Indian hockey’s high performance director Roelant Oltmans were also present during the training session.

    Van Ass, known for his outspoken and controversial nature, had replaced Australian Terry Walsh under whom India won the Incheon Asian Games to qualify for the 2016 Rio Olympics.

    Van Ass had been handed a contract till the 2018 World Cup by his new employer, the Sports Authority of India.

    As a player, Van Ass had limited international experience but as a coach he led the Netherlands men’s team to an Olympic silver medal in the 2012 London Olympics after being given the charge of the Dutch team in 2010. He also served as the head coach of the Dutch Under-21 team.

    Van Ass never played international hockey for the Netherlands but his rapid rise as a coach made him one of the best in the business.

    At the club level, Van Ass not just resurrected the fortunes of the Dutch Club HC Gazellen-Combinatie, he even took them to the Euro Hockey League final in 2007.

  • Saina Nehwal has pain in shoulder

    NEW DELHI (TIP): Top Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal said on March 19 that she was having pain in her shoulder.

    “Having some pain in my shoulder hope to recover soon,” tweeted the Olympic bronze medallist.

    This could be of worry for the Hyderabadi who will take to the courts when she plays at the India Open Super Series next week here.

    The World No.2 had won the India Open Grand Prix Gold in Lucknow in January and became the first Indian woman to reach the final of the All England Open earlier this month.

  • MAURESMO AMONG THREE ELECTED TO HALL OF FAME

    NEWPORT (TIP): Former world number one Amelie Mauresmo of France, Australian wheelchair star David Hall and industry leader Nancy Jeffett were announced on Monday as 2015 inductees into the International Tennis Hall of Fame.

    The trio will be enshrined July 18 during a ceremony at an ATP grasscourt tournament outside the Hall of Fame in Newport, Rhode Island, after receiving at least 75 percent support from a Hall selection committee.

    “Amelie and David were both inspiring and highly accomplished competitors on the professional tours,” Hall of Fame president Stan Smith said.

    “Nancy’s commitment to tennis has been integral to the growth of the sport and will leave a permanent positive impact on tennis for years to come. We look forward to celebrating their many accomplishments.” 

    Mauresmo won the 2006 Wimbledon and Australian Open titles, each time defeating Justine Henin in the final. She also made a remarkable run to the 1999 Australian Open final as an unseeded player, ousting world number one Lindsay Davenport and two other seeds on the way.

    The 35-year-old Frenchwoman, who spent 39 weeks on top of the rankings, was the Olympic women’s runner-up in 2004 at Athens. She won 35 WTA titles and went 545-227 for her career before retiring in 2009.

    Mauresmo is now a coach, counting Britain’s Andy Murray among her charges, and has helped guide others, notably former world number one Victoria Azarenka and compatriot Marion Bartoli during her run to the 2013 Wimbledon title.

    “I’m honored and humbled to be selected,” Mauresmo said. “Tennis has been my passion for as long as I can remember. I extend my gratitude to the selection committee for recognizing my career in this way. It’s an extraordinary honor to have my career celebrated alongside the greatest champions of our sport, people who I have admired so greatly all my life.” 

  • Indian-American Akhil Sharma wins Folio literary prize gets $60K Prize for ‘Family Life’

    Indian-American Akhil Sharma wins Folio literary prize gets $60K Prize for ‘Family Life’

    Indian-American writer Akhil Sharma has won the second annual Folio prize for fiction for a novel which charts an emigrant family’s heart-wrenching search for the “American dream”, said a media report.

    Sharma said after winning the 40,000-pound (nearly $60,000) prize that writing the novel, which took 13 years to complete, was a frustrating and difficult challenge, often “like chewing stones”, with around nine wasted years when it did not go well, according to a Guardian report.

    “I’m glad the book exists, I just wish I hadn’t been the guy who wrote it,” he said.

    Sharma won the prize for his second novel, “Family Life”, an autobiographical work, which tells the story of a young boy, Ajay, and his family who emigrate from Delhi to New York in search of a better life.

    All is turned upside down when his older brother has a dreadful swimming pool accident and needs round-the-clock care from then on.

    Sharma, a former investment banker, said he was professionally happy that people were reading the story of care givers, but admitted that he thought about giving up. However, he stuck with it.

    “I couldn’t bear the idea of having spent all those years and then nothing good having come out of it.

    “In the end, I feel the book itself is good, it does certain things that are artistically impressive. So I feel good about that.”

    Parts of the writing process were fun, he said, but much of it was not. “I’m 43. I started writing this when I was 30. So I spent my 30s writing this thing… I really feel like I shattered my youth.”

    William Fiennes, who chaired the panel of judges, praised the novel, currently a bestseller in the US, as “lucid, compassionate, quietly funny”.

    “‘Family Life’ is a masterful novel of distilled complexity: about catastrophe and survival; attachment and independence; the tension between selfishness and responsibility.

    “We loved its deceptive simplicity and rare warmth… This is a work of art that expands with each re-reading and a novel that will endure,” he said.

    It was chosen from a shortlist of eight books, which included what was the bookmakers’ favourite for the prize, Ali Smith’s novel “How To Be Both”.

    The prize, sponsored by the Folio Society, was created last year with the aim of celebrating the year’s best English-language works of fiction, regardless of form, genre and geography.

    The first winner was American short story writer George Saunders for “Tenth of December”.

  • Indian-American journalist’s life saved by Secret Service at WH

    Indian-American journalist’s life saved by Secret Service at WH

    WASHINGTON: An Indian-American journalist suffered a heart attack inside the White House, but a prompt response by US Secret Service personnel saved his life. 

    Manku Singh, the only Sikh journalist accredited to the White House, collapsed in the East Room while covering the White House Science Fair moments before President Barack Obama was to speak. 

    Singh is a community reporter-cum-cameraperson for TV Asia — the largest South Asian cable network in the US. 

    The alert Secret Service personnel immediately responded to him and called the ambulance. 

    The emergency responders who tried to revive him found that he had no pulse. 

    They used cardiopulmonary resuscitation, which is commonly known as CPR, to try to revive him while administering oxygen. 

    After about four minutes, one of the technicians said, “We have a rhythm.” 

    CPR is an emergency procedure performed in an effort to manually preserve intact brain function until further measures are taken to restore spontaneous blood circulation and breathing in a person who has cardiac arrest. 

    The emergency medical technicians later said Singh had a strong pulse. 

    He was transferred to the nearby George Washington hospital. 

    At the hospital, soon, Singh underwent a heart catheterisation, and the early signs were reported to be encouraging. 

    “Secret Service literally saves a life in back of East Room,” Benjamin Corb, who was in the East Room representing the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, tweeted about the incident.