Ergo June 15

A BYTE OF LIFE

Monday, June 15, 2009

06 HAPPY UNION Boris Becker weds Korssenberg FREE CIRCULATION

Vol. 3

No. 110

Naan Avanillai, again

PHOTOS: R. RAVINDRAN

» PAGE 10

In 2007, director Selva remade Naan Avanillai with Jeevan in the lead. Ergo meets the director and actor, who are back together for a more picturesque, glamorous Naan Avanillai 2

Get connected Look out for the new internet service provider in your neighbourhood, especially if you are a resident of Besant Nagar, Adyar, OMR, T. Nagar or Ashok Nagar. Zylog Systems has launched its Wi5 services starting with these pockets. PAGE 02

02 NAMMA CHENNAI

ERGO Monday, June 15, 2009

Slim LCD TV Bravia ZX1, said to be the world slimmest LCD TV, has been launched. The television measures 9.9 mm, weighs about 15 kg and removes the hassle of wires. It is priced at Rs. 1,99,900.

Prison diaries A notorious north Chennai-based gangster was murdered inside Puzhal Prison last week. The incident is a clear example of security lapses behind bars. Reliable khakis say it was a planned operation and a prison officer knew about it. The officer is known to be running a big network of cellphone distribution and other illegal activities inside prison.

Stay in touch, WHEREVER YOU GO Zylog Systems enters the ISP business; starts by operating services in Besant Nagar, Adyar, OMR and Ashok Nagar ERGO CORRESPONDENT [email protected]

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Next, a national star A ‘rising star’ who was elected to Parliament is now planning a Bollywood entry. The man who stunned top Delhi politicians with his dressing sense there is said to have held talks with some Hindi film directors and scriptwriters. Sources say the road is all set for the rising star to turn national star. The movie is said to be a power-packed action thriller.

Vain khaki A senior city-based cop is well-known for his vanity. An epitome of that is a huge framed photograph of him holding a walkie-talkie device, which greets guests into his office. The background of the picture is the logo of the Tamil Nadu police force.

There will be around 20 nodes per sq km – the key point that will enable wireless transmission

Quick facts ■ How to get one: There is a pre-paid connection through which one can access the Wi5 services. You need a Wi-Fi enabled laptop, personal computer or a mobile device or a Wi-Fi card. ■ Cost per month: Rs. 550 (1 mbps), Rs. 1,000 (2 mbps) and Rs. 1,750 (4 mbps) ■ How to look out for nodes: Node is an intelligent processor that has a motherboard, radio, antennae… from where wireless transmission takes place.

our travel time takes over an hour everyday, and you only wished time could be used more productively, probably to complete a presentation or prepare for an exam. If Wi-Fi was the solution you have been looking for, here’s one reason to be happy about. Technology solutions and services-to-enterprises and technology firm Zylog Systems on Sunday made its foray into the consumer retail services with the launch of ‘Wi5’ services in the city. Adyar, Besant Nagar, OMR (Madhya Kailash to Siruseri), Ashok Nagar and parts of T. Nagar are among the pockets that will be Wi5-enabled as part of phase I of its national reach. In the next 12 to 15 months the service will be extended to the entire city and by the 24th month to all major metros. Now, what does that mean for you and me? Wi5 removes all the cluttered wires you need to get or avail of a broadband connection. Also, it will enable one access high-speed (1 mbps, 2 mbps and 4 mbps) wireless broadband connectivity through your laptop or mobile phone even when you are on the move. To enable connectivity, it has adopted “mesh network architecture”, which it calls “metro Wi-Fi”. Addressing the media at the launch of the service, Ramanujam Sesharathnam, Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer, said that Wi5 will bring freedom from wired limitations. “Our mantra is offering value for money, plus mobility – be it at home, office or while one is on the move.” Performance is the major challenge for Internet service providers and Zylog Systems will be targeting the existing broadband users for now. “There will be around 20 nodes per sq km – the key point that will enable wireless transmission,” said Janakiraman R., Chief Operating Officer and Director, Zylog Systems. Currently, 250 Wi5-enabled nodes have been installed across the city. ■

03

Monday, June 15, 2009

Actor Sivakumar’s Sri Sivakumar Educational and Charitable Trust completed 30 years. On the occasion achievements of deserving school students and organisations working with underprivileged students were recognised

MISSION EDUCATION

ERGO CORRESPONDENT [email protected]

“I

will discontinue my studies and get into full-time paratha business.” These were the words of Plus Two rank-holder G. Veerapandyan in the year 2000. Today, as an IAS rankholder, he proudly says, “I felt this is the best way to thank Sivakumar sir, who helped me achieve this feat.” At the award function held at South Indian Film Chamber auditorium on Saturday to celebrate 30 years of yesteryear actor Sivakumar’s Sri Sivakumar Educational and Charitable Trust, Veerapandyan was the special guest of honour. “As a paratha seller outside Madurai railway station, I had no option but to bury my dreams of becoming an IAS officer and discontinue my studies. Born in a poor family, I couldn’t think of higher studies,” remembers Veerapan-

dyan. But with his self-confidence and support of Sri Sivakumar Educational and Charitable Trust and other philanthropists, Veerapandyan is now an IAS officer, securing an all-India ranking of 53. Sri Sivakumar Educational and Charitable Trust has been helping many such deserving students over the last three decades. This year Sivakumar’s son, actor Suriya, distributed cash prizes of Rs. 10,000 each to 30 deserving class XII passouts. The deserving students included state rank-holders, students from Tamil Eelam camps and visually challenged students from Little Flower Convent. In addition to this, funds were also given to organisations that impart education to the deprived. Addressing the event, Sivakumar said that the Sivakumar Educational Trust was founded in 1979, when he did his 100th film. From then, for the next 30 years, he has been contributing to the cause. Since the last five

years Suriya has taken over and is continuing the noble deed in the name of Agaram Foundation. The trust takes care of deprived and underprivileged students. Agaram Foundation has also set aside Rs. 25 lakh for the educational development of the underprivileged. Actor Suriya said the trust has tied up with Isha Vidhya School to educate 50 children of fishermen this year. Suriya also urged people to come forward and help these children in whatever way they can. Actor Karthi assured that he would also join the cause from this year. Vazhai, a NGO that takes care of rural students’ welfare, received praise. Vazhai and Isha Vidhya Trust received a cheque of Rs. 2 lakh and Rs. 3.5 lakh respectively for the uplift of deserving underprivileged students. The event also launched a series of advertisement campaigns to improve public awareness on the importance of education. ■

Actor Suriya, Karthi and Sivakumar with award-winners of Sivakumar Educational and Charitable Trust during its 30th-year celebrations.

PHOTOS: R.RAGU

04 KALEIDOSCOPE

ERGO Monday, June 15, 2009

At a glance Reliance Infrastructure Fund Fund philosophy: To give investors long-term capital appreciation by investing mainly in equities and related instruments. The investments will be only in equities related to the infrastructure and related companies. Opening date: May 25, 2009 Closing date: June 23, 2009 Offer price: Rs. 10 per unit Finergo’s take: Infrastructure will be an industry that will show consistent growth at least for the next 10 years.

Quiz 1. What does ELSS stand for: A) Employee Linked Savings Scheme B) Equity Linked Small Stocks C) Equity Linked Savings Scheme D) Enterprise Level Securities and stocks 2. CAP in Large Cap or Mid-Cap stands for? A) Capital B) Capitalisation C) Capacity D) Capability Send your answers to [email protected] or SMS your answers to 92813 98889. For example, if you choose A as the answer to question 1 and B as the answer to question 2 type it as 1A2B and send it. Winner will be chosen by lucky draw from all correct answers.

Answers for last week’s quiz: 20% Palanimanickam

News you can use No to consolidation Employees of all State Bank associates have shown negative sentiments towards the proposed consolidation (Read lead article) of the public sector banks. They are of the opinion that doing so would lead to a distraction in the core focus of the banks from the common man to global competition. The employees association has called for a strike on July 3.

New mortality table for life insurance The IRDA will soon be releasing the new table for calculating mortality rates. The table is based on latest data relating to mortality and is also based on the data provided by different insurance companies relating to their claims. With this customers could look forward to lower premium rates.

HDFC coming up with NCD The board of Housing Development Finance Corporation (HDFC) has approved plans to raise capital of Rs. 4,000 crore through non convertible debentures and warrants that could be converted to shares at a later date. Although the NCDs will be available only to Qualified Institutional Investors, from a personal finance point of view it is a significant move considering it is one of the largest NCD offering and also an indicator of market sentiments.

Consolidation of banks will assure more government support as well as higher safety

Banking on the power on oneness What is it for you and me if PSBs were to consolidate? DIVYA DARSHINI [email protected]

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inance Minister Pranab Mukherjee has emphasised the need to consolidate Public Sector Banks (PSBs). He stated that this merger of PSBs is very essential for the country as well for the survival and growth of banks themselves. For, it not only aids in the reduction of risks due to financial stability but also helps in improving the state of competitiveness of Indian banks globally. Recently, the Finance Minister met with the Chief Executives of the PSBs and suggested that they look through all the possible ways to further reduce their lending rates. According to him, this will assist in the

growth of these banks as well as boost the economy as a whole. Although the PLR (Prime Lending Rate) of banks have come down by 1.75 to 2.25 per cent during the past six months there is still scope for further reduction. This will give impetus to economic growth too. The FM also pointed out that the Government, as a majority shareholder, will play a very supportive role in the merger. So, what does this mean for you and me? Although on a macro level consolidation can help the country, there are a few positive take-homes for us as individual investors as well: 1. Consolidation of banks may enable better returns on investments and the lending rates could go down, making it cheaper and easier for us

to avail of loans. 2. Government support will be more than before for there is less diversification in policies and procedures. 3. This would benefit the capital markets tremendously and thus the values of our stock investments and mutual fund NAVs could see a positive growth. 4. Indian public sector banks could become more competitive in comparison to global banks, thus enabling them to offer cost-effective yet world-class financial products. 5. Common investors can be more assured when investing in these entities as there is more government support as well as higher safety. This is very critical, especially after what happened to the large US banks. ■

05

Monday, June 15, 2009

Like the pizza in the ad? Your telly can order it too

Raring to go: Team Fachak

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ou have always watched the latest pizza or cola ad on the telly. Now make the idiot box do something intelligent: Like placing home delivery orders. In the constant churn that the gizmo world witnesses, a new technology has been thrown up that actually makes the television set a bit more useful than reducing people to mere couch potatoes. One can use it to get provisions delivered at home, receive calls, take educational courses, and execute a bulk of work that an internet-connected personal computer is capable of: surfing and searching data. And all this, apart from watching your favourite programmes broadcast digitally. The new technology, based on IPTV, is a system where a digital television service is delivered using internet protocol over a network infrastructure or broadband connection. Simply put, IPTV portends to change the way we live. Said Vijay Yadav, managing director of UT Starcom, a leading networking solutions provider: “In the coming three-four years, IPTV will replace everything from your corner table.” “The power of IPTV is phenomenal,” Yadav told, adding: “It’s not just about watching one’s favourite show at a convenient time. It’s about the kind of inter-activity it enables while watching TV.” Currently, IPTV in India is at its nascent stage. “However, considering a service that has been launched as recently as last year, it has done fairly well,” Yadav contended. Installing IPTV is not inexpensive; subscribers need to cough up about Rs. 4,000 for a set-top box and the tariff plan. Apart from this, a modem and broadband connection for receiving are needed and, if the subscriber wants an interactive TV, an extra camera. The investments involved, coupled with low awareness, have kept a lid on the IPTV spreading; services are available in about 25 cities only with just a few players in the fray. Prominent service providers include staterun telecom operators Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd and Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd, private sector biggy Bharti Airtel and smaller players like Goa Broadband. “We will initially launch the service in the metros as it’s focused on urban customers. Based on the feedback, we will move to other cities,” said Bharti Airtel’s telemedia services president Atul Bindal. IANS

Go Fachak MashBox is a neat way to create embeddable video playlists, image slideshows, documents collections and presentations LIFFY THOMAS [email protected]

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etting a patient hearing from a VC is a privilege in itself, but if the person at the other end of the table happens to be ruthless and blunt, as most venture capitalist are notorious for being, your plans with your dream venture could take a nosedive. Luckily, though Vaneet Singla, Ishwinder Singh and Sarabdeep Singh did meet with at least a dozen VCs (both formally and informally), they didn’t have any unpleasant experience to take back from their journey as budding entrepreneurs. “Most successful companies do not start with a great idea, but the ideas evolutes to what the consumer actually wants.” These encouraging lines from a venture capitalist are sure to ring in the trio’s minds for quite some time. The three are founders of Fa-

chak (Yes, the Hindi word for ‘smash’), a tech start-up they launched this February, with MashBox being their first application they are gung-ho about. What’s Mashbox? “MashBox enables one to pick their favourite content from across the Internet and make it accessible through a single embeddable player,” explains Vaneet. “Ours is a user-driven interface. One can integrate videos, presentations, images and documents into one interface,” explains Vaneet.

Floating an idea The success of YouTube, Scribd and SlideShare was another reason why they decided to explore the content-sharing space. “Scribd received around 15 million page views per month when it launched. In fact, nobody thought this would become so popular,” says Vaneet, explaining why theirs should also click. Singla was with Web18, Sarab-

deep Singh with ICICI Bank and Ishwinder with Quark Xpress, when the three friends decided to quit their respective jobs in July 2008 to concentrate full-time on the venture. Fachak is currently getting around five lakh page views a month and they are confident each of these would translate into business in the months to come. The global slowdown has had its pros and cons on them – pros as it has been cheaper getting resources and cons as VCs are not very forthcoming to fund the business. “In the consumer Internet space the risk is more, which VCs are not ready to explore,” says Vaneet. Their next plans include adding more services and improving the interface. Until then, the trio continue to share a home-cum-office space in Delhi and work free-of-cost. ■ (This column celebrates the spirit of entrepreneurship)

Scribd received around 15 million page views per month when it launched. In fact, nobody thought this would become so popular

06 VILLAGE

ERGO Monday, June 15, 2009

Christmas snap goes global An American family took a group snap for their annual Christmas card - which was then used in a Prague advertising campaign.

Tyson’s new wife is an ex-fraudster Mike Tyson’s new wife Lakiha Spicer is also an exconvict just like the former heavyweight boxing champion. According to Philly gossip Dan Gross, Spicer, 32, spent six months in a federal pen last year for fraud and conspiracy. Prosecutors have said that she pocketed a whopping 71,000 dollars for a no-show teaching job from Philadelphia’s Sister Clara Muhammad School. Tyson spent three years in jail for rape in the early ’90s, reports the New York Post. ANI

Google says no to censoring content Asserting that it would not play any editorial role, global search engine Google said it would not censor content on its network but would act swiftly to redress any complaint. “Google does not censor... it is unlikely that we will take a proactive role (in controlling content)... Google should not play an editorial role,” Google India Managing Director Shailesh Rao said. But once objectionable content is found out on the site, he said “the timeline to remove objectionable content is anywhere between 10 minutes to 24 hours”. “Anytime you are trying to push the frontier of content publishing, of mapping of geo products (like Google Earth) that will always create a lot of debate and discussions about the merits, about innovation.” “In fact, it is a part of natural conversation about what is the right rule, and to what extent freedom of speech is permissible in Indian culture,” he said.

Owners imagine dogs’ guilty looks Many dog lovers may not agree, but a new study says that owners who think they can read their pet’s body language - for example, a guilty look - are only fooling themselves. According to researchers, there is no basis in owners’ belief that they can read their pets’ body language. They are merely projecting human values onto their animals, they said. “Given that discovery of, say, a stolen roast or garbage on the floor is often followed instantly by cries of alarm and scolding, it is not surprising that, in retrospect, owners would conflate sources of dogs’ resulting guilty looks.” “Merely uttering dog’s name with a rising, accusatory tone is enough to elicit pre-emptive submissive behaviour.” “The results indicate that the so-called guilty look is a response to owner scolding; it is not expressed more often when actually guilty,” The Daily Telegraph quoted lead researcher Alexandra Horowitz of Barnard College as saying. PTI

Ronaldo-Hilton enjoy intimate bash Less than 24 hours after their first steamy night together, Christiano Ronaldo and Paris Hilton reportedly spent some more time together at a private bash. The hotel heiress held a small private party at her Beverly Hills home, and locals reveal that Ronaldo, 24, was among the few invited to the intimate bash. The celebration ended with them going back to Paris’ sister’s home, where Ronaldo stayed on until 5 a.m. “Paris was tired after that night and held a little private party,” The Sun quoted a source close to Paris as saying. ANI

PTI

Boris Becker

Becker with his wife Lilly Kerssenberg. PHOTO: AFP

WEDS

Kerssenberg F

ormer German tennis ace Boris Becker exchanged wedding vows with his lover Lilly Kerssenberg in Switzerland recently. The couple completed the first stage of their intimate St. Moritz ceremony with a photo op outside the register office, and later exchanged self-penned vows at an elegant alpine chapel. An announcement about their wedding plans was made on a German chat show

earlier this month. According to the Daily Express, Becker showed his love for Lilly on the show by leaping through a flaming heart of fire. Lilly also revealed at the time that they had discussed their wedding plans with Becker’s ex-wife Barbara Feltus, with whom he has two sons. She said that Barbara had given them her blessing. ■ ANI

07

Monday, June 15, 2009

Websites of the day

Fox steals shoes

This funny site, now being made into a book, brings up the age old battle of the sexes debate http://www.menarebetterthanwomen.com/ All the tap dance terminology you need: http://www.theatredance.com/dictionary.html

More than 120 shoes have gone missing from homes and gardens in Germany after a fox developed a bizarre fetish.

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ustralian tourism officials defended Britain’s ’Best Job in the World’ competition winner after he was branded a “whingeing Pom” by media. Tourism Queensland said it had every confidence in Ben Southall after he admitted he would miss England’s long summer days and traditional roast

dinners during his caretaker stint on idyllic Hamilton Island. “Ben was asked by a British journalist what he would miss ... only to find himself tagged by the British tabloid media as a ’whinger’,” a spokeswoman was quoted as saying by the ABC news website. “Tourism Queensland has every confidence that Ben is the

best person for the best job - he’s adventurous, outgoing and a genuine person who is able to communicate well.” Southall beat thousands of applicants to the six-month post, which will earn him 105,000 US dollars for swimming, snorkelling and sailing around the northeastern tourist paradise and blogging about his experi-

ences. “I’ll miss the long days we have. The island may boast a tropical climate but it gets dark at 8:00 pm,” he told The Sun newspaper, in comments picked up by Australian media. “It will be far too hot to cook anything like (roast dinners),” he added. ■ AFP

IT’S BORING DOWN UNDER: Ben Southall. PHOTO: AFP

Ben Southall no whingeing Pom Australia backs its moaning ‘best job’ Brit

Queen

Up in flames

gets own vegetable patch

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ueen Elizabeth II has given the royal seal of approval to a new vegetable patch at Buckingham Palace, officials said on Sunday. Royal gardeners have been growing tomatoes, runner beans, onions, leeks and carrots on the allotment for the last six weeks and some produce has already been sent to the London palace’s kitchens. The last time vegetables were grown at Buckingham Palace was during World War II as the royal family tried to encourage Britons to grow their own healthy produce at a time of rationing. But this time, the idea of the 10X4 metre (33 by 13 foot) plot, being cultivated without chemicals, is to help the survival of threatened types of seeds. Claire Midgley, the palace’s deputy garden manager, said: “We’re not only helping to keep

old varieties alive, but we’re also preserving heritage and history.” The queen is not the only famous figure to get a new vegetable garden recently - in March, US First Lady Michelle Obama broke the turf on a new allotment at the White House. ■ AFP

쒀 A replica of the 19th-century convict ship ’Three Bees’ explodes into flames during a re-enactment of the 1814 fire that devastated the ship and which now forms part of the ’Fire Water’ spectacle as part of the ’Vivid Sydney’ festival in Sydney Harbour. AFP PHOTO / GREG WOOD

08 SPORT

ERGO Monday, June 15, 2009

Sania bows out Sania Mirza squandered a one-set lead to lose to 13th seed Magdalena Rybarikova of Slovakia in the singles semi-final of the Aegon Classic, thus missing an opportunity to play her second final of the year. The unseeded Indian began in brilliant fashion but ran out of steam as the match progressed to lose 6-3, 0-6, 3-6 in one hour and 34 minutes, in Birmingham.

Gul sets T20 record Umar Gul confirmed his right to stand among the Pakistan pace bowling giants with the first fivewicket haul by any bowler in a Twenty20 international. Gul, 25, captured five for six from three overs as Pakistan thrashed New Zealand by six wickets in their Super Eight match and was denied a fourth over and the chance for more wickets when the Kiwis were all out for 99. Gul now owns three of the best top 10 analyses in Twenty20 cricket to go with his 76 wickets at 31.34 from 18 Tests. New Zealand captain Daniel Vettori said Saturday’s match was the first time he had witnessed reverse swing, the art perfected by Gul’s Pakistani predecessors, in a Twenty20 match. “I have never seen anybody reverse the ball after 12 overs,” Vettori told a news conference. “I don’t know of anybody in Twenty20 cricket who has made the ball reverse.” Reuters

‘KP and Flintoff hold Ashes key’ Sachin Tendulkar feels England’s challenge in the Ashes this summer lies heavily on the shoulders of Andrew Flintoff and Kevin Pietersen. The eagerly-awaited series between England and Australia begins in Cardiff July 8, with the home side seen as the underdogs to regain the coveted urn. “One thing I can tell you is it’s going to be an exciting series because last time the Ashes took place in England it was one of the best series I’ve ever witnessed,” Tendulkar was quoted as saying in Sky Sports. “England obviously will heavily rely on a couple of players who are in my mind Pietersen and Flintoff and the rest of the players will have to deliver.” “But those two will be the key players.” Though the Australians are already out of the current World Twenty20 tournament, Tendulkar has warned against under-estimating the Baggy Greens. “The Australians have some aggressive attacking players and a good well-balanced bowling attack,” he said.

IPL leaves a mark on World Twenty20 L

IANS

Mowbray is new Celtic boss Tony Mowbray is all set to become the new Celtic manager after the Scottish club agreed to a two million pounds compensation deal with West Bromwich Albion. Celtic had targeted Mowbray after Gordon Strachan quit as manager in May in the wake of losing out to Glasgow rivals Rangers in the fight for the Scottish Premier League title. Mowbray, who spent four years at Parkhead as a player in the 1990s, was unable to prevent relegated West Brom finishing bottom of the Premier League in their first season back in the top flight. “We do not want to lose Tony because he has been an integral part of a long term project at the club which the vast majority of our fans have bought into,” West Brom chairman Jeremy Pearce told the club’s website (wba.co.uk). Reuters

Tillekeratne Dilshan. PHOTO: PTI

ike it or not, the cash-lucrative Indian Premier League can’t be ignored as it is proving both a boon and curse for cricketers taking part in the World Twenty20 in England Some like West Indian Dwayne Bravo and Sri Lanka’s Tillekeratne Dilshan credit their success to the IPL, where Indian tycoons and Bollywood stars dole out millions to buy the best players for their franchises. Ironically, one team that will view the latest edition of the IPL held in South Africa just prior to the T20 Worlds with mixed feelings are India. The defending champions were deprived of the services of swashbuckling opener Virender Sehwag, who suffered a shoulder injury while leading the Delhi Daredevils. Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, a 1.5 million-dollar signee with the Chennai team, refused to blame the IPL for Sehwag’s absence. “Injuries are part of a sportsman’s life,” he said. "They can happen anytime, anywhere. It’s not right to blame the IPL for that.” The fat pay-packets go a long way in soothing tired limbs and

09

Monday, June 15, 2009

‘‘

Definitely this situation will be resolved one way or the other. Either we race in an F1 with the characteristics we want to maintain or there will be an alternative. We want stability, clear rules, a clear and transparent system of governance and the possibility to let teams work to cut costs like they’ve already shown. Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo

Players swear by the Indian tournament for raising their own game to a new level jaded minds caused by the gruelling travel and helter-skelter cricket of the five-week IPL. Bravo, hero of West Indies’ win over India at Lord’s on Friday where he picked up four wickets and then scored an unbeaten 66, said he benefited from skills picked in the IPL. The all-rounder came into the tournament after a second year with Sachin Tendulkar’s Mumbai Indians in the IPL, having missed West Indies’ unsuccessful tour of England due to an ankle injury. “This was my second stint in the IPL,” said Bravo. “I gained a lot of experience both times. Sharing the same dressing room with some of the best players in the world, you’ve got to learn a lot. “I think that’s what I did.” Dilshan, who has scored two half-centuries and 46 not out in Sri Lanka’s three matches so far, says his scoop shot over the wicket-keeper’s head was born in the IPL. “The first time I played that shot was two months ago in the IPL,” the opener said. “I have confidence now and I trust myself that I can play that shot.” “I could play a paddle shot against a yorker and then if the ball is a good length, the ball can go behind the wicket-keeper.” Kumar Sangakkara, leading Sri Lanka for the first time in a major series after taking over from Mahela Jayawardene, says the IPL experience has done his players a lot of good. “At the last count there were 13 of our players in the IPL and hopefully there will be a lot more in the next few years,” Sangakkara said. “Playing against the best can only be a good thing. It’s not about the money. It’s about testing your skills against the game’s leading cricketers and learning from them.” “It makes you a better human being and definitely a better cricketer.” The next edition of the IPL takes place in March-April next year, a month before the next World Twenty20 in the Caribbean, just like this year. ■ AFP

Kumar Sangakkara.

PHOTO: AFP

Dwayne Bravo.

PHOTO: AFP

10 FLICK

ERGO Monday, June 15, 2009

Naan Avanillai 2

Return of the conman Casanova 2007’s Naan Avanillai, remake of K. Balachander’s 1974 blockbuster by the same name, was a superhit. Now, the director-actor duo of Selva and Jeevan are back together for Naan Avanillai 2. An interview with the two:

S. SREEJITH [email protected]

Why the sequel? Jeevan: Since the first part had gone down well with the audience and the box office too reacted on a positive note, I thought this particular script had all those elements that are essential for a commercial film. So I decided to go for it. Also, acting in a sequel is a new experience

for me. The audience have already accepted my character in the first part. This gave me more confidence and I was focusing much on taking the second part to the top of the success ladder. Selva: The script of the original version of Naan Avanillai, directed by K. Balachandar in 1974, influenced me so much that I decided to do the Tamilto-Tamil remake of the same in 2007. The producer was initially

Actor Jeevan (left) and director Selva.

PHOTOS: R. RAVINDRAN

a little sceptical, but after tasting success I proved critics wrong and was willing to carry forward this winning formula. The climax of the first part, where the hero lands in a foreign country, gave me the spark to try the sequel. The movie continues from where it ended – so do the funfilled activities of the hero, who romances five heroines – in order to keep the audience engaged. The cast Jeevan: It was great acting with all five heroines (Lakshmi Rai, Sangeetha, Swetha, Hema Malini, Rachna). They were all very professional and have done their respective roles well. Shooting the film in European countries with a new set of actors gave me a different feel and I’m confident this movie will be a visual treat, as it’s a fusion of

both glamour and exotic locations that will keep the audience glued to their seats. Selva: The audience have welcomed Jeevan’s character and it’s an established one. So retaining him will give the film an extra edge. Since the story starts in a different country, I opted for new heroines. All have been given equal screen space and I don’t believe in disappointing artistes by downgrading their importance. Difference between Part I and II? Selva: The entire film is shot extensively across Europe (including Switzerland), Dubai and Brazil. Also, some of the heroines are new faces, which will be refreshing. Sangeetha does a cameo, while Lakshmi Rai plays the role of an actress who goes abroad for a film shoot and falls

victim to the hero’s sweet talk. Swetha plays the role of a Mumbai-based Tamil lass settled abroad and surrenders to the hero’s cool designs. Hema Malini’s role is that of a Telugu-speaking software professional from Andhra Pradesh, while Rachna is a gang leader. Future projects? Jeevan: My next flick, Krishnaleelai, has already gone on floors and a couple of other ventures are also in the pipeline. Selva: I’m working on another remake, Nootrukku Nooru, starring Vinay and five heroines – Sneha, Sandhya, Karthika, Kasthuri and a newcomer. I’m happy that K. Balachandar’s Kavithalaya Productions has offered me this wonderful opportunity to direct this movie and I’m looking forward to deliver yet another victorious venture. ■

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Monday, June 15, 2009

Christopher Lee to receive knighthood Legendary British actor Christopher Lee will receive a knighthood as he has been included in Queen Elizabeth II’s Birthday Honours list. The 87-year-old star, famed for his role as Count Dracula in a string of horror movies, is to become a Sir after he is presented with the honour by the British monarch, reports wenn.com.

Touch me not

Cine City

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rad Pitt has apparently added a ‘no physical contact’ clause to his existing publicity contract, prohibiting interviewers from touching him during chats – all thanks to Ann Curry from Good Morning, Good Morning on NBC’s The Today Show. Ann raised eyebrows of many viewers on Today’s May 20 broadcast after she unexpectedly squeezed the actor’s face during a Cannes Film Festival promo interview for the World Premiere of his new WWII drama, Inglourious Basterds. After that incident, Pitt has got a no physical contact clause, which means any journalist who wants to sit down with one of Hollywood’s hunkiest dads will have to first agree to keep their paws off the pretty boy. “He’s tired of being poked and prodded like a piece of meat,” the Daily Telegraph quoted a source as telling Star. “From now on, if you want to talk to Brad, you’ll have to keep your hands to yourself. Or risk getting sued,” the source added. ■ ANI

Trisha goes to Bollywood Trisha is all set to make her debut in Bollywood. The actress, who was been occupying the No. 1 position for quite some time in Tamil cinema, has been roped in play the female lead in Akshay Kumar’s upcoming flick. Titled Khatta Meeta, the movie is directed by Priyadharshan, who introduced Trisha in Kollywood with Lesa Lesa. Trisha was last seen in Vishnuvardhan’s Sarvam.

Kick to be remade in Tamil Blockbuster Telugu film Kick, which had Ravi Teja, Shaam and Ileana in the lead roles, will be remade in Tamil. The movie rights of Kick have been purchased by ‘Jayam’ Raja, who has reaped success with remake movies. Though Raja expects that the remake will also turn out be a superhit, he has not finalised the actor to play the lead role. As Raja is supposed to direct Vijay’s 51st movie, he might use the story for Vijay or, as usual, cast his brother ‘Jayam’ Ravi . Let’s wait and see.

12

ERGO Monday, June 15, 2009

Friday’s Query: Your favourite personality from world history and the reason you like him or her. ■ Shahjahan, I like his love and Tajmahal

Monika, Pavithra Wipro

■ Sir Winston Churchill for his inspiring slogan v for victory Deepak Vasudevan Verizon

■ Rajaraja Chozhan. For building the world famous Brahadeeswar temple Priyang TCS

■ Hitler bcoz, he is very strict Pinky, Ranjith R Menon IBM, Hari Wipro

■ Mother Teresa, she lived for the dying Jeeva CSS

Menaka from Perot Systems has nominated her friends as Partners in Crime. This pic was clicked at Queen’s Land.

■ Mohamad of Ghajini - tried 17 times to win the battle, great attempts though he lost Vagula TCS, Saranya.M Cognizant

■ Mahathma Gandhi. He taught us the power of truth and non violence. His principles are more powerful weapon to sort out today’s world issues Rajarajan.R Cognizant, Adiseshu.K Wipro, Poothabalan Verizon, Dinesh.M Thinksoft

■ Karl Marx. His book Das Capital has changed the attitude of the world Mayilraj Allsec

■ Indira Gandhi, for her confidence n d power she carried with ease Soumya HCL

■ Charlie Chaplin- for his outstanding character, both on and off stage Dhivya Wipro, S.Francis Raj Perotsystems, Murali Verizon

■ Benazir Bhutto, her courageous leadership and the way how she took her life till the end

Roshan Paul form TCS eServe has nominated his friends, Praveen, Sriram and Subash, as Partners in Crime. The pic was clicked in Pondicherry.

Shanavas Allsec

■ Obama for his simplicity and outstanding leadership ■ Alexander - The Great, for his consistency and confidence

Senthil Wipro

Asath Kani.M TCS, Shiva CSS

■ Swami Vivekananda. His writings inspired me a lot. Every schools and colleges must preach his thoughts to make a better nation Darshana RBS

■ Che Guvera, he is the care of address for braveness, revolution n synonym of inspiration Naresh Wipro

■ Perunthalaivar Kamaraj for his simplicity and as an powerful king maker C.S.Shankar, CSS

Today’s Query: If you were to give an award to your favourite actor, what title would you give and to whom?

Vijay Raj Pavan from Hewlett-Packard has nominated his team as Partners of Crime. This picture was taken at Tada Falls.

13

Monday, June 15, 2009

Naushath T. from Flextronics Technologies has been nominated Office Angel by Saravanan M. Naushath is a sweet, kind hearted, jovial and helpful person. He is a good team player. He plays like a role model for his entire team. He is a wonderful person who supports and encourages all his subordinates. He always wants his team to be on top and works hard for it.

■ Dear Gokul, Happy Birthday! Have a Great time. From Aruna, Vimal & Vijay, Allsec Technologies

■ Dear Vasantha, I am simply thankful to god that your again with me in this new year of life in and I wishing you happy birthday .

By, AU-Batches 7, 8, 9 and Saroja

■ Hi Scindia Hope it adds some special pleasure, To the hours of your day, To know you’re being thought of, In the very warmest way, And when your birthday’s over, Hope that you’ll remember, too, The same warm thoughts as always, Will keep going out to you! Happy Birthday

Nokia-CCMS, TCS

■ Dear Heera Today is your day, and you’re wished the best, we hope you celebrate it, with a lot of zest. For today though you are a year older, Store away your many wishes, until you feel bolder. So let the drums roll and horns toot, now make a wish for a lot of loot. Hope your birthday cake is as sweet as you. Enjoy the day. God Bless you.

Guess ????????

■ My Dear Baby, Many Many happy returns of the day.. The Heart Never forgets those special People for whom it cares. Though daily struggle may pull up a bit part. You are always remembered by this heart. happy birthday. i wish u success and all the very best for all ur future endeavours.

With Lots and Lots of Love, P. Sugan, IBM

Emanual from CTC doodled this.

■ Dear Vasu, Many important things that I learned, I have learned from you. A sister is a special gift from heaven. Wish you Many many more happy returns of the day!! I’m so glad that God gave me a sister like you. Happy birthday to a wonderful sister and good friend.

Loving brother & Friend, Thomas, Logica

■ Dear Bala, Bala unaku pirantha nal bala unaku pirantha nal bala nee alaga pirakalaya (summa)... sari vidu Don’t feel sariya...MANY MORE HAPPY RETURNS OF THE DAY....May this day bring to U all things that make U smile!!!intha b’day la irunthavadhu poi solratha koraichuka da...may all Ur dreamzzz comes true in this year!Have a Rocking B’day da...

with lots of love, sumi...

1) Postman keezha vizhundha eppadi vizhuvaar ? "Thabaal" 2) Vaazha maram thaar podum! Aana adha vachhi road poda mudiyuma? 3) Bill gates oda paiyana irundalum Kazhithal kanakku podumpodu Kadan vaangi thaan aganum.. 4) Yenna daan periya veerana irundalum, Veyil adicha thiruppi adikka mudiyathu Jayaraman V HCL Technologies Ltd

Belated Wishes ■ Dear Deepika Padukone, May all your dreams come true. Wishing u all success in your career and life. With Love, Ur Team mates,Wipro Technologies.

■ Dear Sujin Many more happy returns of the day da… Today is a day of celebration not just 4 u but for us too.. May God shower his blessings on u and may each

and every minute of yours be filled with delight:) We wish u d fulfillment of all your dreams. You are our treasure and we do not wanna miss u. God bless u dear.. Urs everluving, Tejkiran, Suganya, Umayal, Vandhana, HCL & Patni

■ Hi Krishna May this special day be filled with sweet memories and happy hours. Wishing you all the fun and excitement that only birthdays can bring!

With Cheers, Human Resources, Coastal Training Technologies India (P) Ltd.

■ Hey Kathi Gaja, NOC chatter box delight !!! We still wonder if you might ’ve fallen from the sky like the rain. We know you’re safe much better than ever thought Or perhaps you are alwayslike a ghost when u fight, whose spirit never dies. Whether we sink or swim !! doesn’t matter at all, Just know that v’ll be there whenever you call. Crispy birthday dear friend...

Wit luv, Bhu, suvi, gayu, gowri, jesi, pros, saran, ravi,Johny, raj, prem, marjook, pv, srini, bala, paul, senthil, Uma, Gokul

■ Hello Abhitha, Wishing you a very Happy Birthday. May Gods blessings be with u all through the Life. Wishing U all happiness and Prosperity.

Best Wishes from iRonicz Spiders -Technologists. Tata Consultancy Services, iNautix,fidelity-Chennai & Mumbai . Musigma,NSN,Tata Elexi,EMC-Bangalore. Juno, Deshaw, Commvault-Hydrabad.

■ Hi Suresh, Wishing you many more happy returns of the day. Your presence can change sad moments into happy moments. God will shower all his blessing on you. Let’s this birthday brings you lots of happiness, Success and good health in your life.

Team-Ford of North America Warranty Operations, FBSC.

■ Dear Jay, Vijay TV Neeya Nana pugal ’JAY’ avargale, Annan John katum valiyil selbavan nee thane. Elnet Petti kadai owner um nee thane. Elorum virumbum Anbu thozhan nee thane. Nee endrum sugamai vala ninaipavargal nangal thane... Wish you many more happy returns of the day....JAY

From, DCMS Team, FSS

■ Dear Madura (IRonicz Group Hero) , On this special Occasion we all are Delighted to wish u a very Happy Birthday. May all ur wishes come true. Enjoy the day With Lots Of Fun and Steps..Dont forget to include Us. And a Special Advice for u on ur Birthday , Keep Smiling and make us also Smile by ur Dance in walking and Panipio..

Best Wishes from iRonicz Spiders -Technologists. Tata Consultancy Services, iNautix,fidelity-Chennai & Mumbai. Musigma, NSN, Tata Elexi, EMC-Bangalore, Juno, Deshaw, Commvault, Hydrabad.

14 TRAFFIC JAM

ERGO Monday, June 15, 2009

Fake gun sparks manhunt An armed police hunt was launched after a man was spotted with a fake gun on his way to a fancy dress party in Kent, south-east England.

sudoku

Narendran C.S. from TCS shot this picture on the Bangalore Highway using an Olympus FE 370 camera. Hobbies: photography, reading, listening to music.

KAKURO So you think you would make a terrific photographer but never really had the platform? Mail us your best work and we’ll publish it in this space, with credit. E-mail: [email protected]

TEAM Editor: Karthik Subramanian [email protected]

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Printed and Published by S. Karthik on behalf of KASTURI & SONS LTD., at Plot B-6 & B-7, CMDA Industrial Complex, Maraimalai Nagar, Chengleput Taluk, Kancheepuram Dist., Pin: 603209 & at Kasturi Buildings, 859 & 860, Anna Salai, Chennai-600002. Editor: S. Karthik (Editor responsible for selection of news under the PRB Act). RNI No. TNENG/2007/24553

15

Monday, June 15, 2009

Money mattress

Word’s worth

An Israeli woman threw out her elderly mum’s old mattress - not realising it was stuffed with $750,000.

Thalassic (thuh-las-ik) an adjective meaning ‘relating to the sea,’ from the Greek for sea, thalassa. Many of today’s health and beauty centers offer thalassotherapy, which is the use of seawater for various therapeutic and cosmetic purposes.

B.C ARIES MARCH 21 - APRIL 20 Today you will brace yourself to face the upcoming challenges. You will experiment with your work in order to find what is right for you. Your strong ability to think, visualise and understand will help you to climb the ladder of success at a faster pace.

TAURUS APRIL 21 - MAY 20 Domestic matters will take most of your time today. As a result, work will take a backseat. Ganesha advises you to make sure that no one takes a blind bit of notice of your lethargy or else you may land in trouble.

GEMINI MAY 21 - JUNE 20 You will establish a strong association with famous and influential people from different organisations. You may also find yourself busy in administrative activities such as documentation. Don’t feel shy of your beloved’s presence around you.

BORN LOSER

CANCER JUNE 21 - JULY 20 Today, you will flirt with the idea of changing your job, mostly because you believe that your pay is not at par with the amount of work you are putting in. Try not to dominate your beloved as he/she may not put up with you this time, says Ganesha.

LEO JULY 21 - AUG 20 Ganesha says, today is your day. You exhibit confidence and lot of positive energy. Your good performance at work is likely to make your coworkers jealous. Keep your ego in check if you want your personal life to be tolerable.

VIRGO AUG 21 - SEPT 20

FREE RANGE

WORKING IT OUT

Today you may have to put up a fight at the professional as well as the personal front. While trying to make a crucial decision, you may have to delay your decision till the last moment for some reason.

LIBRA SEPT 21 - OCT 20 Today, Ganesha sees you in a bit of a scramble. You will have to deal with a lot of people in position of authority and will have to make sure that their egos are in good health. This job will be very exhausting.

SCORPIO OCT 21 - NOV 20 Today, it’s all work, work and more work. You are focused and have no time to catch your breath as you are over-loaded with work responsibilities. Ganesha says that avoid talking about work once in the company of your beloved.

SAGITTARIUS NOV 21 - DEC 20 Today, your luck will be as good as it can get. All the risks that you take will give positive results. You may want to experiment with a new software or may want to design something that you have had in mind for a long time.

CAPRICORN DEC 21 - JAN 20 Technical problems at work will spoil your entire day. Ganesha says, you may want to work out a contingency plan to sort out things at work. After a tiresome day at work, your partner will take good care of you.

PREVIOUS ISSUE’S SOLUTIONS

AQUARIUS JAN 21 - FEB 20 Let your superiors and seniors take charge at office. Do not confront as your colleagues may not like it and speak ill of you behind your back. Ganesha suggests that you be cool and try keeping good relations with everybody at work.

PISCES FEB 21 - MARCH 20 During work you will remain , focused and grounded. You may want to fix problems at work but Ganesha’s advice to you is to try and finish your own work first. In love, you are likely to ignore your beloved. Predictions by Bhavesh N. Pattni

15

Monday, June 15, 2009

Money mattress

Word’s worth

An Israeli woman threw out her elderly mum’s old mattress - not realising it was stuffed with $750,000.

Thalassic (thuh-las-ik) an adjective meaning ‘relating to the sea,’ from the Greek for sea, thalassa. Many of today’s health and beauty centers offer thalassotherapy, which is the use of seawater for various therapeutic and cosmetic purposes.

B.C ARIES MARCH 21 - APRIL 20 Today you will brace yourself to face the upcoming challenges. You will experiment with your work in order to find what is right for you. Your strong ability to think, visualise and understand will help you to climb the ladder of success at a faster pace.

TAURUS APRIL 21 - MAY 20 Domestic matters will take most of your time today. As a result, work will take a backseat. Ganesha advises you to make sure that no one takes a blind bit of notice of your lethargy or else you may land in trouble.

GEMINI MAY 21 - JUNE 20 You will establish a strong association with famous and influential people from different organisations. You may also find yourself busy in administrative activities such as documentation. Don’t feel shy of your beloved’s presence around you.

BORN LOSER

CANCER JUNE 21 - JULY 20 Today, you will flirt with the idea of changing your job, mostly because you believe that your pay is not at par with the amount of work you are putting in. Try not to dominate your beloved as he/she may not put up with you this time, says Ganesha.

LEO JULY 21 - AUG 20 Ganesha says, today is your day. You exhibit confidence and lot of positive energy. Your good performance at work is likely to make your coworkers jealous. Keep your ego in check if you want your personal life to be tolerable.

VIRGO AUG 21 - SEPT 20

FREE RANGE

WORKING IT OUT

Today you may have to put up a fight at the professional as well as the personal front. While trying to make a crucial decision, you may have to delay your decision till the last moment for some reason.

LIBRA SEPT 21 - OCT 20 Today, Ganesha sees you in a bit of a scramble. You will have to deal with a lot of people in position of authority and will have to make sure that their egos are in good health. This job will be very exhausting.

SCORPIO OCT 21 - NOV 20 Today, it’s all work, work and more work. You are focused and have no time to catch your breath as you are over-loaded with work responsibilities. Ganesha says that avoid talking about work once in the company of your beloved.

SAGITTARIUS NOV 21 - DEC 20 Today, your luck will be as good as it can get. All the risks that you take will give positive results. You may want to experiment with a new software or may want to design something that you have had in mind for a long time.

CAPRICORN DEC 21 - JAN 20 Technical problems at work will spoil your entire day. Ganesha says, you may want to work out a contingency plan to sort out things at work. After a tiresome day at work, your partner will take good care of you.

PREVIOUS ISSUE’S SOLUTIONS

AQUARIUS JAN 21 - FEB 20 Let your superiors and seniors take charge at office. Do not confront as your colleagues may not like it and speak ill of you behind your back. Ganesha suggests that you be cool and try keeping good relations with everybody at work.

PISCES FEB 21 - MARCH 20 During work you will remain , focused and grounded. You may want to fix problems at work but Ganesha’s advice to you is to try and finish your own work first. In love, you are likely to ignore your beloved. Predictions by Bhavesh N. Pattni

16 !

ERGO Monday, June 15, 2009

WHITE AND WATCH: Actor Suriya along with wife Jyothika at the Vijay Awards ceremony held at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Saturday. Jyothika makes one of her rare public appearances at the function. ALL PHOTOS: S.S. KUMAR

WHY SO SERIOUS? Actors Tamannah and Vijay at the same event

FAMOUS FIVE: (From left) Actor Kamal Hassan along with Gowthami, Shruthi Hassan, Akshara Hassan and Subbulakshmi. Gowthami, Shruthi and Akshara came colour co-ordinated in all-black at the Vijay Awards function.