Alpha Times, T Nagar April 12, 2009

Alpha Times Putting Heart and Soul of your Neighbourhood

April 12, 2009

VOL: 1 ISSUE 43

PRICE Re. ONE ONLY

Ramanavami Music festival inaugurated The 54th Music Festival organised in connection with the Sri Rama Navami celebration at the Ayodhya Aswamedha Maha

Mandapam in West Mambalam, was inaugurated on Monday April 06 by N. Murali,

managing director, The Hindu, with Rasikas converging in large numbers at the venue to witness the annual fare.

S p e a k e r s commended the commitment and community-oriented

approach of the office bearers of Sri Ram Samaj at the function. Inaugurating the festivel Mr. Murali said the very ambience of the venue would make people come there often. “The moment you enter, there is a feeling of sanctity and a divine aura here,” he said. Speaking of the journey of the Samaj from the time it was founded, he said that it was amazing how the truly communityoriented institution had grown over the years, preserving, propagating

and upholding the cultural and spiritual traditions. He commended the officebearers of the Samaj, highlighting that some octogenarian trustees continued to serve with youthfulness and enthusiasm. M . S . Sundararajan, Chairman and Managing Director, Indian Bank, said that at a time when everyone was talking about global recession and slowdown in economic growth in India, only prayer and music brought peace of mind, particularly to bankers who were prone to lot of stress and strain. At the time of economic slowdown, the only places that are really crowded were places of

worship, he added. “It is remarkable that the Samaj has been taking up several social activities. The Indian Bank will always be happy to be associated with such noble initiatives,” he said. President of the Samaj N. Venkataraman and secretary S. V. Ramaswamy thanked the community, which they said, had been offering enormous support consistently. The programme has a long list of celebrities of carnatic music peforming at the festival and ends on April 21. For more details of the programme contact the Samaj. -AT Team

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Alpha Times

April 12, 2009

Spiritual life and Material life VOL : 1 ISSUE 43

April 12, 2009

LTTE threat The reported threat of an attack on top political leaders, including Congress chairperson Sonia Gandhi, by the LTTE during current electioneering cannot be taken lightly. The militant Sri Lankan outfit facing defeat is fighting a desperate battle for survival and could well unleash violence within India. One can hardly ignore the fact that it was the LTTE that had engineered the assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. While that had caused revulsion among the masses in Tamil Nadu, it would be foolhardy to under-estimate the numerically-weak but strongly-motivated pro-LTTE forces to create trouble in a bid to find a foothold in the state. In Tamil Nadu, MDMK leader Vaiko has been making no bones of his support for the LTTE and has, in recent days, been warning the Manmohan Singh government of dire consequences if it does not push for an end to the Sri Lanka government’s anti-LTTE operations. The current dispensation, the DMK, itself had been indicted by the Jain Commission in 1997 for supporting the LTTE and that had led to a snapping of links between that party and the Congress. With pockets of support still in the DMK, the LTTE could well make an effort to penetrate the security cordon once again. There is, therefore, cause for strict vigil especially in all the southern states. Some newspapers have cited intelligence reports that LTTE cadres could loot a bank in Kerala to bolster its finances. The recent statement by Congress leader Verappa Moily that if LTTE chief Prabhakaran is captured by the Sri Lankan army he ought to be handed over to India to be tried for the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi could be an added reason for the LTTE to strike. All in all, it’s a situation that brooks no complacency. The security apparatus must be in top gear to thwart the LTTE’s sinister designs.

Donations for Dormitories The Esayanur (30 km from Kanchipuram) Sri Venugopalaswamy Bhakta Jana Sabha Trust, which maintains the 800 year-old Venugopalaswamy temple, needs funds for the construction of dormitories and a Ve d a P a t a S a l a . D o n a t i o n s C o n t a c t 9445242660/9840358204.

Annamacharya special Amritha Vahini, a devotional music group, has organised a series of programmes as part of the Annamacharya Jayanthi to be observed on April 12, between 1.45 and 9 p.m., at Sri Mahalakshmi Mandapam, II floor of Sri Murugan Kalyana Mandapam, 25, (Old. No. 13), South Boag Road, T. Nagar. Dr. Pappu Venugopala Rao will preside over and M. Murali (Krishna Sweets) will be the chief guest. The event begins at 1.45 p.m. with goshti ganam, ‘Sapthagiri Sankirtanam,’ led by Prof. S.R. Janakiraman. Various groups will render Annamacharya kritis from 2.50 to 6.40 p.m. followed by a felicitation programme at 6.45 p.m. The book, titled ‘Annamacharya Sankeerthanas’ transliterated into Tamil by R. Srinivasan, will be released on the occasion. Special programmes by other groups will be showcased from 7.35 to 8.45 p.m. For details call 99403 33231/2434 3399.

Is spiritual life the same as the material life or are they different? What constitutes a life that dwells in spirit and what is material life? Although Baba didn't elaborate on this topic just as He did not dissect on any other topic at length, one encounters this discussion frequently. It is an observation that the young are often discouraged to pursue any spiritual activity as it is deemed that it is not as much a priority as earning a livelihood. Thus, spiritual pursuits are often pushed towards latter stages of life. To dissuade this thought, it is said that one need not d i ff e r e n t i a t e t h e spiritual life from the way we live our everyday lives. To this effect, it is said that one should spend whatever time he/she could in the thoughts of Sadguru as one goes about the ordinary life. As the distinction is blurred, the life itself becomes a harmonious blend of the self and Sadguru. Is there anything more? Everyone is entitled for Baba's grace. But, do all get the same benefit? Baba Himself quipped that if every flower on the tree comes to fruition it would be a bumper crop. But it doesn't happen. The thought that material life and spiritual life is one in itself is a revelation, a comforting assurance that would help one in looking at life in its perspective. Does this mean that the material and spiritual lives are same, meaning there is no difference? If one were to observe carefully, argument that there are no differences between spiritual and material life denotes an intelligent yet subtle justification to the material pursuits that are always in conflict with the search for the spirit! Spiritual or material, it is one life. Attempting to differentiate is a futile exercise because it is neither possible nor appropriate to draw the line. However, as one progresses in the path of Sadguru, the changes in one's life should be evident as every interest revolves around Sadguru; around His likes and dislikes, and approval and disapproval. When the life is in complete tune with Sadguru and none else, such a life is completely spiritual and not material. Just like one cannot travel on two horses riding in opposite directions, one cannot expect to lead a material life to its fullest fulfillment and yet accomplish the spiritual goal. While it is not relevant to discuss the importance of each of the functions in this context, what it takes someone to become the Pope is different from what it would take to become the President of a nation.

Annadhanam donations The Srinivasa P e r u m a l Te m p l e , Nachiyarkovil, (the abode of Kal Garudar) Kumbakonam Circle, Ph: 0435-2467167 is promoting the government sponsored Annadhanam Scheme. Philonthropists and devotees desirous of contributing for the same

may send in donations. Demand drafts (Rs. 600 or Rs. 10,000 permanent deposit) for the Government’s Annadhanam scheme, may be sent to the secretary, Annadhanam Scheme, Srinivasa P e r u m a l Te m p l e , Nachiyarkovil – 612602, Kumbakonam Circle.

For the week April 12- April 18, 2009 Those who have been keeping aloof will rally around you. So you are in for good times on social grounds.

You will make new contacts with new people and strengthen old ones. Emotional life will pick up. Friday good day to socialise.

An idealistic phase soon to prove that you mean business. For you duties come before rights.

Refulgent Moon is urging you take up some challenging assignment. Don’t miss or you may regret missing the chance.

You may have to choose between your lover and career. Proceed with patience.

A combustible Mercury will make you wage war against rising expenditure. Social obligations will affect budget. Wednesday may be exorbitant.

Exalted Venus will make you one up on your rivals. Anyone who dares to challenges you will have to lick the dust. The resistance you can put up now will be stunning.

Travel may demand your time as well your work and home affairs. Your hectic schedule will no time for relaxing.

Your bid to bid, shop or hunt a bargain may fail. Be attentive. You are, however, advised not to act on your impulses.

A minus point in your current solar chart is that you unequivocally forget that your sign is famous for its wisdom.

Good week for improving educational goals, for trainees in the travel, communication, hotel and cinema industries. Sportsmen can also move up with a bang.

Cancerians and Leos are dependable at the time of need but avoid Taureans or Librans. - Dr. Anuj Vikram Sharma

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Alpha Times

April 12, 2009

Gold coins through post offices In view of the Akshaya Trithiya festival, the Department of Posts has decided to keep 15 of its post offices open on April 14 for selling gold coins. A press release issued by the Chief Postmaster General of Tamil Nadu Circle said that the following Head Post Offices in city (Anna

R o a d , T. N a g a r , Mylapore, Tambaram, Ambattur, Park Town, ) and three Sub-Post Offices (Anna Nagar, Tiruvanmiyur and Tiruvallikeni) will be kept open. In a short period from October 15, 2008 to March 31, 2009, the department had sold 30,277 grams of gold coins.

Meet on student visas at US consulate The United States-India Educational Foundation Chennai, will organise a presentation on student visas on Tuesday, April 21, at the Music Academy. David Francis, vice-consul, US Consulate General, Chennai, will provide information about the student visa application procedure and discuss guidelines used in making

student visa issuance decisions. Students who are planning to pursue undergraduate, graduate and doctoral studies in the United States are encouraged to attend. For further information, you can contact 28574423 or email to [email protected].

Workshop on career guidance Science City will hold a workshop on ‘Career guidance for students’ on April 16 for those who have taken Standard XII examinations. According to a release, the workshop would cover various fields of engineering and technology, agricultural sciences, veterinary sciences, medical sciences, basic sciences, and areas, including civil service examinations.

Eminent professionals from these fields would address students, the release said. Participants of the workshop would receive a certificates. Last date for receiving applications is April 13. Those desirous of participating may contact the Science City office on Periyar Science and Technology campus, Gandhi Mandapam Road, or call 24454054, 24454034.

Weekly specials to Jaipur Southern Railway will run weekly specials from Chennai Central to Jaipur in both directions during April, May and June. Train No. 0675 will leave Chennai Central at 4.30 p.m. every Monday from April 13 to June 22 and reach Jaipur at 5.55 a.m. on Wednesday. In the

return direction, train No. 0676 will leave Jaipur at 12 noon every Wednesday from April 15 to June 24 and reach Chennai Central at 9.15 p . m . o n F r i d a y. Reservation had commenced, according to a Southern Railway release

Discourses on Srimad Ramayanam B. Sundarakumar will give discourses on Srimad Ramayanam Balakandam at 6.30 pm daily from April 17 to 24 in Mahaswami Auditorium, Vani Mahal, G.N. Chetty Road, T.Nagar. All are Welcome.

Special Alangaaram for Ramanujar Srimath Ramanujas 49/17/1, Balakrishnan Street Extension, West Mambalam has arranged special alangaaram of the idol of Ramanujar from 8 am to 9.30 am and 5 pm to 7.30 pm on the occasion of Tamil New Year Virodhi Varusham on Tuesday, April 14. For more details call phone 96772 79047/94443 32435.

Tamil New Year celebration Sri Chakra Vinayagar Bhaktha Jana Sabha will celebrate the Tamil New Year on Tuesday, April 14 in Little Oxford School, Ramanujam Street, T.Nagar.: 5 pm: Mass chanting of Vishnu Sahasranaamam and other stothrams. 6 pm: Panchanga patanam by Vaidyanatha Dikshithar. All are welcome.

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English grammar workshop The Stenographer’s Guild, T. Nagar, has proposed to conduct a free one-day workshop on English grammar on Sunday April 12, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It is meant for school and college students, job-seekers

and office-goers. The workshop will focus o n b a s i c g r a m m a r, making sentences and spoken English. The admission is on firstcome-first-served basis. For more details contact: 044-24342421.

Guild’s Renovated Computer Lab The Stenographer’s Guild, T.Nagar, is opening a completely renovated computer Lab with high configuration state-of-the-art computers with complete networking facility on Wednesday, April 15 at 10.00am. The fortyseater computer lab, with provision to increase to 80 terminals, will be opened by Shri. N. Murali, the Managing Director, The Hindu. With this

increased capacity, the Guild will be able to cater to a larger strength of students with more comforts. The Guild would also undertake recruitment tests on computers and also conduct training courses for the Staff corporate and non-corporate offices. The Guild would also introduce more sophisticated and latest computer courses like SAP, in design and other advanced level courses.

Science city to hold workshop Science City will organise a workshop on ‘Health and Wealth from Waste’ for women, at its premises on Gandhi Mandapam Road on April 18.The workshop will comprise lectures on kitchen waste

management, training on vermi-culture and setting up of nutrition garden. Only 50 women would be selected for the free workshop. For details, call Science City on 24454054/34.

Daily Trip to Thirupathi

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Alpha Times

Golusu pattu the new trendy wear Silk sarees, which have for long been the hallmark of tradition, can g e t t r e n d y. P a t t e r n s originally associated with it can give way to newer, more modern designs. And designer sarees need not necessarily imply chiffons or silk cottons, pattu sarees can bear that look too. It is beliefs like these that have helped promote a modest one-room establishment, Sri Palam Silks, to a 2,000 sq ft showroom in the saree hub of the city, T Nagar. They have launched the new Golusu Collection. The silk weaves and the anklet, two symbols of the South Indian tradition, have today been brought together to make a modern saree. Simply put, it is a silk saree which comes with work involving beads and the golusu at its border. The golusu collection, which starts at Rs 7,500 goes

upto Rs 20,000. “It is often the needs of people that help us come out with innovations. W h e n a mother said she had to buy chiffons because her daughter w a n t e d m o d e r n designs, we started with the designer concept saree. And w h e n a p e r s o n abroad had t o b u y sarees but didn’t know to drape one, the concept of a readymade saree was introduced,” says Jayasree Ravi, founder of Sri Palam Silks. W h i l e

acknowledging that her store does not trade with

sarees in huge numbers, it does believe in exclusivity and even takes orders from its customers. Sri Palam Silks is located at 115, Pondy Bazaar, T Nagar.

April 12, 2009

K G Graduation day at Seetharam Vidyalaya Kindergarten Graduation Day of SSRV was celebrated on April 06. P. V. B a l a s u b -

Our Team

the gathering and Master Srihari proposed vote of Thanks. Several tiny tots presented variety

ramaniam, School Secretary, Mrs. Rajeswari Ramkumar, Principal and Mrs. Aruna Sridhara Sankaran were present who distributed the certificates to the ch i l d re n . Ma ste r G. Viswalingam welcomed

entertainment which delighted the audience. There was overwhelming response from the parents of UKG who gathered and took photograph of their wards’ graduation ceremony.

Editor S. Raghunathan Advisor K. Venkataraghavan Reporters Usha Sai Narayan Editorial Desk S. Subhakeerthana Photographer S. Mohan Designer M. Valarmathi Circulation S. Akbar Ali, 90947 99011 Advertisement Desk 90947 99006 Owned and Published by S. Raghunathan Office

Mumbai to Chennai in less than 20 hours In its endeavour to optimally utilise its resources, Central Railway (CR) has decided to introduce a weekly superfast train to Chennai from Dadar which will cover the entire distance in 19.50 hours. This train will cover 1,279 km between Dadar and Chennai at an

average speed of 65 kmph. CR operates three trains between Mumbai and Chennai of which two originate and terminate at Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) and one from Dadar. "The two trains from CST - 1027 CSTChennai Mail takes 29.25 hours whereas 1041

FAST TRACK NEWS

Free course for visually challanged Nandini Voice for the De prived (M 60/1, 4 th Cross Street, Besant Nagar) will conduct a 15-day free course on self-employment opportu nities for visually impaired persons from April 15. Refreshments and course materials will be provided free of charge. For further particulars, N. S. Venkataraman may be contacted in 2491 6037 or 2496 1346.

Last Date The deadline for the receipt of applications for inclusion in the voters’ list and issue of voter identity cards is April 13. Applications can be given in Corporation Zonal Office, Near Power House, Near Dr. Ambedkar Statue at Arcot Road Kodambakkam

Free computer training The Tamil Nadu Foundation Inc Chennai: The Tamil Nadu Foundation Inc of the US is offering free basic computer training for school dropouts and students from the underprivileged section. Contact: 2644 6319, 99401 21860

Nose for news Calling all aspiring reporters. Yocee.com, a website for kids in Chennai, is out with its student reporter programme for those between 11 and 17 years. The website will select 20 reporters from the lot and give them the opportunity to report events from their school and residential locality, interview authors and artistes. They will also be a part of workshops and reading sessions. Details: www.yocee.com

'Strings Meeting Strings Series’ KAPRI music and art mromoters is holding a a scintillating Jugalbandi titeld `Strings Meeting Strings Series’(Carnatic - Hindustani) music concert ofKalaimamani Dr. M. Lalitha – Carnatic Violin and Ustad Rafique Khan – Sitar at 6.30 PM on Tamil New Year’s Day April 14 at the R. K. Swamy Auditorium(Sivaswamy Kalalaya Senior Secondary School)No 5 Sundareswarar St, Mylapore

C S T- C h e n n a i t a k e s 26.45 hours. The third train, 2163 DadarChennai, takes 23.15 hours. However, this superfast train will save over 3.25 hours," said Shriniwas Mudgerikar, chief PRO of CR. Mudgerikar said the reduction in the time has been achieved

by reducing the number of halts en route thereby increasing the speed between two stations. The train will halt at five places - Pune, Solapur, Wadi, Guntakal and Renigunta. Introduced on an experimental basis, it will be operated once a week from April 28 to May 19. "Seeing the

immense response from people travelling to Chennai and back we decided to use the CSTMadgaon special superfast rake that was lying idle. So without incurring additional costs we will be able to cater to t h o u s a n d s o f passengers," said Mudgerikar.

F 5 and 6, First Floor, Leo Complex, 41, Madley Road, T.Nagar, Chennai-600 017 Ph: 4286 7784 99400 24556

Disclaimer Readers are recommended to make appropriate enquiries before entering into dealings with advertisers who advertise in this publication, Neither. the Editor, nor the Printer and Publisher do not vouch any claims made by advertisers and hence shall not be held liable for any adverse consequences.

Annual identification The annual identification of the defence service pensioners for the year 2009-2010 will be done at the DPDO, Teynampet office.

IGNOU engineering courses The school of Engineering and Technology associated with the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is joining with Sri Angala Parameswari Education Trust to offer certificate, diploma and degree programmes in various engineering branches from 2010. Dr Latha Pillai, pro-vicechancellor, IGNOU, said that this had been introduced to allow students who did not have access to higher technical education

Civil services test as per schedule The personality test for civil services (main) examination, 2008, will be held as per schedule on April 14 which the government has declared as a holiday on account of the birth anniversary of Dr B R Ambedkar, an official statement said.

12th

4.30 p.m

Chennai Drama House Present “Kandapadi Kandupudi”

7.00 p.m

United Visuals Presents “TV” Varadarajan in “Re(a)el Estate”

13th

7.00 p.m

Augusto Creations Presents Augusto in “Ranganathan Photo Studio”

14th

7.00 p.m

Stage creations Presents Kathadi Ramamurthy in “Ayya Amma Ammamma”

15th

7.00 p.m

Goodwill Stage presents Kovai Padmanabhan In “Washingtonil Thirumanam”

16th

7.00 p.m

Kala Nilayam Presents K.S.Nagarajan in “Marupakkam”

17th

7.00 p.m

Gurukulam (Original Boys Co –95) Presents M.B.Murthy in “Ammavin Aranmanai”

18th

7.00 p.m

Crazy Creations Presents Crazy Mohan in “Chocolate Krishna”

19th

4.30 p.m

Sowmya Theatres Presents T.V.Radhakrishnan in “Maanbumighu Nandhivarman”

7.00 p.m

Natakapriya Presents S.Ve.Shekher in “Mahabharathathil Mangatha” [Season (11th to 19th) Donar Pass : Rs.750/-,Rs.500/- Rs.300/Daily Donar Pass: Rs.300,200,100,50/-]

Police, traders clash: Police personnel attached to the Egmore police station (crime wing) on Thursday nabbed two persons, Murugan and Ezhumalai, suspected to being involved in stealing mobile phones in the city. Based on their confession, a police team rushed to Sathya Bazaar in

the Pondy Bazaar area to retrieve the stolen mobiles from a cellphone show-room. The traders objected to the search being conducted in a particular shop and refused to part with the mobile phones. A police vehicle was partially damaged in the clash that

ensued. Aggrieved traders staged a protest in front of the Pondy Bazaar police station for a while. Police have registered a case. Accused were interrogated to gain more information.

American Library now functional There is good news for those who love reading or are interested in American history. The American Library US Consulate General in Chennai opened its doors to the public once more on April 11. The library will function and will be open to the public on six days a week — from Monday to Saturday If you wish to know about the US

government and its policies, American values, history and culture, the library is the place to visit. It stocks 14,000 volumes of books and subscribes to 137 periodicals and four American newspapers. There are CD-ROMs, online databases and more than 400 videotapes. US consul general Andrew T Simkin

inaugurated the library at 11am. Visitors were treated to a library walk', which was followed by high tea. The American Library library will open at 9:30am. Visitors are required to carry a valid, original photo identifity proof. Electronic devices have to be deposited with t h e s e c u r i t y. Tw o wheeler or car parking will not be available on the consulate premises.

Vijay Shanti Builders launches "Infiniti" P r e i m u m property developer Vijay Shanthi Builders on April 07 unveiled its affordable housing project "Infiniti", at Sriperumbudur on the Chennai-Bangalore National Highway. The Rs 130 crore project, located adjacent to the QueensLand Amusement Park at Mevalurkuppum in Chettipedu village near Sriperumbudur, would have 588 units, comprising single, double and threebedroom apartments in a five acre area. The apartments range between 365 sq ft and 1059 sq ft and were

that it works well with some of our students who have come from Tamil-medium schools. The new language course aims to equip individuals with a functional knowledge of the language. We propose to select dominant themes of daily life and train people to converse in these aspects. For instance, introducing oneself, asking for directions, purchasing provisions from a grocery store and so on on. We will also g i v e t h e m a n understanding of the basic structure of the language so that they can become creative with its usage," said Xavier Raj, an experienced French professor who retired from the foreign languages department of the college. K Srinivasan, Raj's colleague, the instructor for German at RACE, said that students

would find it easy to learn the language as German shared some structural similarity with Tamil. "The vowel sounds in both languages are very similar. This will facilitate easy pronunciation. There are certain simple rules that need to be understood. Once this is done, it easy to read German text. This can happen even after three sessions of three hours each," he said. Currrently launching the initiative with a basic-level language course spanning 15 days, with coaching for three hours a day, RACE plans to expand it to intermediate and advanced courses as well, Francis Peter said. Scheduled to start on April 15, he said the academy planned to target students who had finished school and were looking to learn new languages during summer holidays.

Festivals galore from TTDC The Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) is planning to organise a mango festival in Chennai. Usually, the mango festival is an annual feature in Krishnagiri, a town located near the Mango city of Salem. This will be the first time the State capital will be hosting such an event. Different varieties of the fruit would be on display, and people will get a chance to taste different varieties of the fruit brought from different parts of the country. Besides, the Corporation is also planning to organise a series of tourism programmes in Tamil Nadu - a music festival at Tiger Caves in Mamallapuram, a tea and coffee festival, Chettinad heritage festival and a literary festival at Ettayapuram in Thoothukudi district, which

is the birth place renowned Tamil poets, Umaru Pulavar and Mahakavi Barathiyar are in the pipeline. According to officials at the TTDC, the international tourist arrival to the State escalated by 23 per cent in 2008, accounting to a total of 20 lakhs in the previous year. Most of the foreign tourists were from the UK, USA, Italy, Germany, Holland and France, visiting six world heritage sites, including G a n g a i K o n d a Cholapuram and Brahadeeswarar temples at Tanjore. A section of tourists were also from Arab countries for medical treatment in Tamil Nadu. Likewise, the State had an inflow of about six crore domestic tourists, largely from the neighbouring Andhra

Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra and West Bengal last year. A large number of them, the official said, came as medical tourists to places like Chennai, Vellore and Madurai. Meanwhile, the TTDC launched its website on Wednesday in T a m i l www.tamilnadutourism.or g / t a m i l featuring tourist destinations in Tamil Nadu. Dr V Irai Anbu, Secretary, Tourism, Dr M Rajaram, Commissioner of Tourism and Managing Director of TTDC, participated in the event. TTDC is also planning to expand its websites in Hindi, Telugu and few other Indian languages, in an attempt to attract more tourists from other States.

priced between Rs 9.50 lakh and Rs 27.5 lakh. ''The Infiniti will have a total built up area of 4,10,342 sq ft and is expected to be completed in the next 21 months'', Vijay Shanthi Builders Joint Managing Director Chandan Jain told reporters at the launch function. The project was strategically located on NH-4 diagonally opposite to Chembarabakkam Lake and within five KM radius of several MNCs. ''There is a growing demand for affordable housing projects in Chennai in the current economic situation. We are

extremely glad to cater to these needs by offering units at a price within the reach of common man'', he added. The "Infiniti" would have several amenities like Swimming P o o l , Wa t e r B o d i e s , Jogging Track, Open Air Theatre, Outdoor Games, Children Play Area, Park, Skating Rink, Library, Browsing Centre, Children Activity Area, Yoga and Meditation Centre, besides a Departmental Store, Gym, Party Hall, Indoor Games, Recreation Hall, Business Centre, Health Club, Arts and Crafts Centre and a Desalination plant.

Prizes galore for Seetharam Vidyalaya students

You can now learn French, German in Tamil Tamil speakers who are not fluent in English will now be able to learn foreign languages as Loyola College is all set to start courses in French and German, using Tamil as the medium of instruction. " T h e i d e a occurred to us when a student asked whether it would be possible to teach him French using Tamil instead of English. A working knowledge of French, he felt, could help him get a job," said Francis M Peter, director, Research Academy of Cumulative Excellence (RACE), a division of Loyola College that equips individuals with different levels of language proficiency to help them better career prospects. Speaking to journalists here on Wednesday, he said that the concept of using the mother tongue for foreign language instruction had already been tested in the college classrooms. "We have found

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Alpha Times

April 12, 2009

S. Harissh I Prize

B. Akilesh II Prize

C. Aravind III Prize

Siddharth of VIII A and J. Varalakshmi of VIII C.

Lions Club celebrated World water day on 23.03.2009. Quiz competition was conducted for school students. S. Harissh of IX C bagged the first Prize. II prize was shared by B. Akilesh of IX C and Nitin Narasimhan of IX A. The III Prize was shared by C. Aravind of VIII A, Harivallabha of VIII C, K.

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Alpha Times

News You can use

Summer camp Landmark is organising an annual summer camp for children titled The Chrysalis Busy Bee Fun Factory 2009. Children will be able to participate and learn innovative ways of spending their summer. From April 19- April 25, 10.30 am to 1.00 pm, At landmark, Spencer Plaza, Anna Salai.

Seminar Hypnotique Circle conducts a seminar on Positive Self Talk, followed by a session of mass relaxation by hypnotist P Dharmaraj on April 12, Hotel Palmgrove, Kodambakkam High Road, 2.30 pm to 6 pm. For details call : 9282173771.

Earth day contest The Go Green project by Parampara and Blueberries Ice cream organises contests for kids between three and 15 years of age on April 19. Those interested in drawing, painting, colouring, handwriting and fancy dress can register their names at Blueberries Ice Cream on April 12 from 10 am. to 6 pm. You can take home loads of prizes. The event will be held at Blueberries Banquet hall, No. 20, Gopalakrishna Street, Behind Naidu Hall, T.Nagar, For details call: 99400 71564 pr 98406 91502.

Activities galore Virgo fitness centre conducts personal grooming classes for girls and teenagers. They will be taught nail art, different types of plaiting mehndi and more from April 15 There will also be a dance workshop open to all age groups. This will cover salsa, hip hop, western, cine dance and jazz. Kids fest will be organized for children aged 3 to 12 years and will focus on spoken English, karate, clay modelling, embroidery gardening and painting and more. For details, call: 99410 18210., or Virgo Fitness Centre, 54th Street, Ashok Nagar.

Tennis, football camp Loyola College will be conducting a summer coaching camp in tennis and football from April 15 to May 30. Contact Vijayakumar, Director of Physical Education, between 7 a.m. and 1 p.m. on all days (except Sundays) at the Physical Education office, Loyola College, for registration and other details.

Develop your personality Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama will organise a one-month p e r s o n a l i t y development camp for high school students from April 26. The last date for enrolment is April 25. The course will cover Veda chanting and Bhagavad Gita Chanting, yogasanas and meditation, Spoken English, classes on Indian culture among

If your not receiving the paper by 12.00 noon

others. Registration fee is Rs. 250. Interested students can contact the Ashrama office. at Maharajapuram Santhanam Road. T Nagar.

Discover your talents

April 12, 2009

B U D G E T

Discovery camp conducts camp for kids aged 9 to 13 years. The camp includes the Detective Club, to improve analytical, deducted skills and develop problem solving strategies, the Robotic Club, to help the child create Becham or Drogba to pay in the Soccer Robo Competitions; Dra-matics Club, where the child will create skits and plays and Phototgraphy Club, to acquire hands-on experience of the nuances of photography and many more from April 13. at Anna Nagar 9.30 am to 4.30 pm. For details call: 98840 61700.

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Chess camp T. N a g a r Chess Academy will hold a camp for children above five at T Nagar from April 14. Contact AL Kasi, Secretary, T. Nagar Chess Academy. Ph: 94444 66155, 23711180.

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India General Elections 2009

Voter's guide Are there any arrangements for the videography of critical events during the election process? Yes. Video teams are formed in the constituency to record and videotape critical events like meetings addressed/attended by ministers, national/state-level leaders of political parties, incidents of violence, etc Is there any restriction on the printing of pamphlets, posters, etc? A person can't print or publish, or cause to be printed or published, any election pamphlet or poster which does not bear on its face the addresses of the printer and the publisher thereof Are there any guidelines for setting up election booths by candidates / political parties near polling stations on the day of the polling? An election booth can be set up beyond a distance of 200 metres from the polling stations, only with one table and two chairs with an umbrella or a piece of tarpaulin or cloth to protect the two occupants with one banner (3 X 4 1/2 feet) to display the name of the candidate/ party/ election symbol at the booth. No crowd is allowed. Is it necessary to obtain the written permission of the authorities concerned for setting up the election booth? Yes

Jaya’s lucky number AIADMK supremo J Jayalalithaa, a firm believer in numerology and astrology, has stuck to her lucky number 5 and 9, even at the risk of breaking ties with alliance parties. As she was firm in contesting 23 seats, (two+three is five), she denied an extra seat to the MDMK and the negotiations dragged on for more than 10 days. Finally, the seat-sharing pact was signed on a lucky day (April 9). On the same day, she released the list of candidates and her election campaign programme. Although, a public meeting on April 16, will start her election campaign, Jayalalithaa's tour will begin on April 18 (one+eight is nine). What is the deadline after which no public meetings and processions can be taken out? Public meetings and processions can't be held during a period of 48 hours ending with the hour fixed for the conclusion of the polling Is there any restriction on the presence of political functionaries in a constituency after the campaign period is over? After the closure of the campaign period, the political functionaries, etc, who have been brought from outside the constituency and who are not voters of the constituency should not remain in the area. They should leave immediately after the campaign period ends Why was it necessary to switch over to EVMs from ballot paper elections? The counting of ballot papers in an election used to take long hours, creating a charged atmosphere for the counting officials as well as the candidates/ political parties. Sometimes this was aggravated by the demand for recounting resulting in a low margin of difference of votes between the top two candidates coupled with a large number of invalid and doubtful votes How votes are counted in EVMs? In the counting centre, the EVMs are kept on a number of counting tables whose number normally does not exceed 14. Seating arrangements are made for the counting agents in such a way that they can clearly watch the EVMs and its display. When the result button of an EVM is pressed, its display segment indicates the total number of votes polled in a particular polling station and then shows the votes polled by each candidate in a serial order. Suppose I'm working and living in Chennai, can I be a voter in my native village? You are ordinarily resident in Chennai. Therefore, you can be enrolled in Chennai only and not in your native village After the polling, where are the EVMs kept till counting? The polled EVMs are generally kept in a secure storage centre in the constituency or a nearby place on which the candidates or their representatives can keep watch. Mostly it is the same place where the counting is done A person is a member of the Scheduled Castes in a particular state. Can he contest the LS poll from any other state from a seat reserved for the SCs? Yes Is the wearing of special accessories like cap, mask, scarf, etc, permitted during campaigning? Yes. However, the supply and distribution of the main apparel like sari, shirt, etc, by a party/candidate is not allowed as it may amount to bribing voters .

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Alpha Times

April 12, 2009 Language Arts

The Power of Words

Words hurt, please, motivate and a n n o y. T h e y a r e powerful. They control emotions and can even control a person physically. Speaking comes to most people as naturally as breathing. On many occasions our words are uttered without conscious thought; in fact we rarely stop and think about what we are saying. Thousands of words pour out of us each day as our thoughts, opinion, judgments and beliefs are freely expressed. But are we aware of the positive or negative effects these words have on ourselves and the people around us. Words have tremendous power. They determine peace or war. They justify life and death. Words can be soothing or harmful. Words give out energy and a message which creates a reaction in others. Everything you say produces an effect in the world. Think of the number of people you have made happy by saying, “I really appreciate you”. Or the number of people you have hurt by saying, “What’s wrong with you?” or “Can’t you do anything right?” There is a great need to understand life and feelings for and of everyone. We need to respect each other and that can happen only when we reciprocate other people’s warmth and maintain a loving attitude towards others. We need to be in full control of ourselves. An important key to success in life is to understand the power of words. A word is a thought eternalised. Our thoughts do have a great effect on us even though they are internal. What we think effects the way we live our life, it effects our emotions, our attitudes and our behaviour. A thought spoken, however, has even more power. It can never be taken back; for once it is out of our mouth, it will have an effect on someone. Our

words have even more power than our thoughts because they not only affect us, but the people and the world around us. Successful people take control of their words, rather than letting their words control them. They are more conscious of their thoughts and words, and the power they unleash. Successful people understand that they need to speak positively rather than negatively in order to succeed. Such people are characterised by the words they speak. They know the importance of speaking the words that will build self-esteem and confidence, build relationships and open up possibilities. They speak words of a f f i r m a t i o n , encouragement, love, acceptance and appreciation. To see more personal success, the words that we speak need to be in alignment with what we want to see being produced in our life, our vision and our dreams. Our words can determine our destiny. Even more importantly, our words can make a positive difference in the lives of the people we interact with everyday. So before we speak we have to ask ourselves: is what I am about to say going to uplift the hearer? Will it inspire, motivate and create forward momentum for them? Will it dissolve fear and create safety and trust? Will I create a positive or negative ripple effect by speaking out these words? Let others decide for themselves what they want to gain or loose. We have a responsibility to groom ourselves so we need to teach ourselves the healthy way of progressing in life and how to be kind-hearted and loving in our relations with family, friends and also generally. Let’s be determined to unleash the power of words for positive change and think before speaking

Breathe slowly, but deeply. Now close your eyes and pray or make a wish with the firm belief that it’s going to be definitely fulfilled. Now open your eyes. What did you wish for? “I wished to become a doctor”, “I wished to have a bungalow and a sports car of my own”, “I prayed to complete my semester with flying colours”, “I wished a prosperous life”, “I wished to possess all things in the world”, “I wished to be a celebrity in future” — these are some of the things most of you would have wished for. But have you observed how self-centred we are? The dearest thing to us is nothing other than our own self. Our parents, our siblings, our friends were nowhere in our prayers, in our wishes that were made from the depth of our heart. Our parents, siblings and other relatives also our own flesh and blood but we hunger for our own betterment and progress. That’s something really odd on our part, isn’t it? Close your eyes once again and repeat the process with the same devotion and belief. Now open your eyes. What did you wish for this time? “I wished joy and happiness for me and for my family”, “I wished to be able to send my parents for Chardhaamj from my own hard-earned money”, “I prayed that all my wishes and that of my siblings get fulfilled” — hmmm, that’s good. The canvas has broadened up a bit this time. First we prayed for ourselves only, now our families are also included in our prayers. Now suppose you are standing in front of a billionaire and you are asked to demand whatever amount of money you wish for, with a surety you would be given that particular amount. Undoubtedly, taking the best advantage of this golden opportunity, you are going to demand a pretty handsome amount (some of you may even ask for the entire sum). But what if someone just says, “Just give me 50 rupees.” You would gaze at that person strangely and without waiting for a single moment you are going to certify him as a dunce. But what if you also behave like this dunce? Surprised? See, we acknowledge the immeasurable generosity of the Almighty but when it comes to making a wish or asking Him to grant us something, we just do what the other fellow did by asking for just Rs50 when he could have asked for millions. In the same way, we tend to pray only for ourselves and widen our circle only to our family members. It’s silly of us to ask for so little despite knowing there are boundless bounties that Almighty can bestow on His beings. We don’t include the entire humanity in our prayers, that’s should be the right way of praying before the Creator of the entire universe. Recently, in our yoga class when our teacher made us the aforementioned exercise, all of us were amazed at our foolishness. The Creator of the universe is inviting all of us to wish for whatever we want, but, inauspiciously, we are not making good of the golden opportunity. We, the dim-witted souls, are yearning for a drop of water from the sea that is simply beyond measurement. Today, let’s promise ourselves to include the entire humanity in our prayers and supplications, and pray in the right manner.

- S. Raghunathan

- S. Raghunathan

Wish what you wish for…

Netas spoke I will not ride Tata’s Nano car because it has been manufactured with the people’s blood — Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee My feeling is that why should a Fourth Front be not formed at the Centre. Those parties which are opposed to the current formations can join hands with us to from the Fourth Front — Telugu star and Praja Rajyam Party chief Chiranjeevi Vajpayee not being around during the ongoing campaign is painful. During the last elections, Vajpayee did not campaign much but was at least there — LK Advani I will win by a margin of three lakh votes. We have got the experience of winning elections. I will consult the party cadres and draw up my strategy and work according to it – MK Azhagiri If the National Security Act has been imposed on Varun Gandhi even without a proper investigation, then why not against Lalu Prasad? — BJP president Rajnath Singh “I am a disciplined party worker and I have left everything to the party president. I am not going to pursue for my ticket for the upcoming polls.” — Senior Congress leader Jagdish Tytler

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Alpha Times

April 12, 2009

Owned Edited and Published by S. Raghunathan Editorial and Advertisement Office: F 5 and 6 1st Floor, Leo Complex, New No: 41, Madley Road, T.Nagar, Chennai 600 017. Ph: 4286 7784 and Printed at New Merit Printers, 14/51, Reddykuppam Road, Saidapet, Chennai- 600 015.