Ergo November 27

A BYTE OF LIFE

FREE CIRCULATION

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Vol. 2

No. 226

BBond ond oorr SSUPERSTAR? UPERSTAR? VIPASHA SINHA

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ollywood star Priyanka Chopra, who was in Namma Chennai on Wednesday evening, said she would any day prefer a movie with Superstar Rajinikanth than even the angry Bond Daniel Craig. The former Miss World and current Bollywood hottie, whose bikini avatar in ‘Dostana’ continues to vapourise hundreds of drooling fans at the theatres, was at the Park Sheraton Hotel to launch the Grand Carrera Calibre collection of Tag Heuer. Ms.Chopra arrived fashionably late but quickly apologised to the waiting media and fans and lost time in waxing eloquent about watches. A perfect brand ambassador, she also spoke about Tag Heuer’s guest appearances in both Fashion and Dostana. When asked if she would get back to Tamil cinema if she got an offer – the disastrous Vijay-starrer ‘Tamizhan’ was her first movie in fact – she replied: “ I love cinema, be it Tamil, Hindi or Punjabi. I had started my career in movies with Tamil cinema and will love to get back to it. If a good script comes my way, I would definitely go for it.” Priyanaka also lost not opportunity in endearing herself to Chennai audiences. When asked whom she would pick, if she had a choice – Superstar Ranjinikanth or the angry Bond Daniel Craig, she said: “Daniel Craig is a great actor but acting with Rajinikanth is an opportunity in itself that no actor would want to miss.” Grand Carrera Calibre watch costs Rs. 3.92 lacs with 68 diamonds studded in it and is inspired by the GT race cars. The photo sessions that some of the fans had with the actress at the launch event was, of course, priceless. ■ PHOTO: R.RAVINDRAN

Has your moviegoing experience ever been ruined by that late-comer who insists on being told what happened so far? Tell us about one such irritating incident you experienced inside a movie hall. Mail it to us in less than 150 words with the subject line ‘MOVIES’, if possible with your photograph (at least 1 MB), to [email protected] before Thursday noon.

02 NAMMA CHENNAI

ERGO Thursday, November 27, 2008

Rejuvenate yourself Treat yourself to a day off, relax and rejuvenate in the restful environment of the new Trident Spa and Fitness Centre at the Trident hotel. The package includes stay in a deluxe room, an elaborate buffet lunch for two, one Balinese or Thai massage per person and access to the steam, sauna, swimming pool and fitness centre.

Against gender violence Violence against women continues to persist as one of the most heinous, systematic and prevalent human rights abuses in the world. Ban Ki-moon, UN Secretary General

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he Alliance Francaise of Madras in association with The Prajyna Trust is hosting the campaign against gender violence on November 27. A symposium and film screening will be held at AF auditorium. The half-day symposium on ‘Violence against women and cinema’ will be followed by screening of selected films on gender violence. K. Hariharan, director L.V. Prasad Film and TV Academy, Chandra Siddan, documentary filmmaker, Vasanth, film director and Fowzia Fathima, cinematographer will be making presentations, from 2 p.m. to 5.30 p.m. Also, a 16-day campaign against gender violence is on till December 10, where a series of events and activities are being conducted. For details log on to www.prajnya.in/16days.htm. Or call Nirupama Sarathy, Prajnya Campaign Coordinator at 9790765916

Easy on the

FLYING FOX

Namma Chennai’s expert on ’creatures of the trees’ explains how to handle a confused flying fox SUBHASHINI RAGHAVAN [email protected]

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ecently, a large fruit bat that must have been a flying fox was roosting at the Theosophical Society and had strayed into Gandhi Nagar, Adyar. It was beaten to death with sticks and rods. It screamed helplessly, until its death. There are enormous amount

Dracula or the evil -looking vampires in the movies are strictly fiction - these movies have done more harm to bats than anyone else.

of misinformation and superstition about these shy fruit-eating creatures, which keep out of the way of people. I live in Gandhi Nagar and have met several of these huge bats on the terrace of our apartment building at very close quarters. They look like dogs with far larger eyes and more elongated noses and steer clear of me whenever we get close to each other. The unfortunate creature who was bludgeoned to death was probably a juvenile that got lost on its return or wounded by kite-strings or something else. Otherwise a bat would never let itself be seen in daylight. Flying foxes have very few predators, not even crows that attack other smaller fruit bats. Their main predator is man. Not a blood sucker

No bats in India drink blood. Vampire bats that live in the US are really tiny, insectivorous bats that lap up a few drops of blood from cattle. Dracula or the evil -looking vampires in the movies are strictly fiction - these movies have done more harm to bats than anyone else! How to handle a bat A bat which has strayed into your home should never be touched or picked up with bare hands. Drop a thick towel over it, wrap it gently and firmly (bat wings are fine and can tear easily) shift it into a basket and then to a dark corner, a dark room or even a dark cupboard with holes for air. It should be kept there with some place to hang from and then released at night. ■

03

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Exchange old handsets for new Tata Indicom prepaid subscribers can upgrade their old handset with Huawei C2905 or Motorola W210 or Samsung Raaga hand set. Also, enrol in to the Tata Indicom Club to enjoy unlimited benefits. From the date of purchase till one finishes six months the subscriber gets Rs. 100 core talk time to make calls to any mobile network. Likewise, similar offers on completing 12 and 15 months.

New festival, new themes MOUSHMI KISHORE

2nd December, 2008

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he second edition of ‘The Park’s New Festival’ was launched in the city on Tuesday evening, with the promise of not just entertaining the audiences but also to make them think. At the launch party, V.V.Giri, general manager of The Park, said: “Despite the recession, pull back of the economy, we are happy to bring back this festival. It was hosted for the first time in 2007 with performances from the likes of Dr. Mallika Sarabhai, the Vayu Naidu company from the U.K, Preethi Athreya and Dance Routes from Bhubaneshwar. This year, we have an entirely new range for the discerning Chennai audience.” Ranvir Shah, founder trustee and artistic coordinator of Prakriti Foundation that organises the festival, said: “Chennai is no doubt open to change. This has encouraged us to bring this festival back.” He felt the city had its own special charm made up of unique experiences. Festivals such as the New Festival will help unlock them. Ratni Jafar, director, INKO Centre, said art required patronage, not as a charity, but as support and appreciation for artists. ■

ABOUT RAM: Anurupa RoyMuseum Theatre About Ram is based on Balinese Ramayan- the Uttararamacharita by Bhavabhuti. The play uses animation, puppet and live actors with audio visual effect.

3rd December, 2008

Lalit Kala Academy An installation art mapping the landscape of memory, through light installations as well as the physicality of the performer, where the performer is negotiated to become an extension of the visual language of that space.

6th December, 2008 PUSHED: Padmini ChetturKalakshetra Modern dance choreography of six dancers interpreting anger, pain, pleasure, happiness, sorrow and love.

4th December, 2008 BUDDHACHARITAM: Probal Gupta- Museum Theatre An experimental kathakali rendering on the life of Buddha.

5th December, 2008 ON SEEING: Zuleikha Allana-

Exhibition of portraits of musicians, dancers and other cultural personalities from Chennai and India by French Photographer Pascal Montell Park Festival will also have workshops conducted by Ms. Padmini Chettur at the Alliance Francaise on 4th December, 2008 at 11am on contemporary and traditional dance. There is a lecture/ demonstration by Pascal Monteil at The Park on 3rd December, 2008 at 11 a.m. Season Passes: Rs.1000/ Daily Passes: Rs.500/ 300/ available at Media Mix 9884663342

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24527941/

The Park- 42676000 60 SECONDS DEEP by Jaimini Pathak- MUSEUM Theatre A play of wit, fun and modern life- the story of four standard sized lives and four larger than life dreams. 2nd to 6th December, 2008 SPIRIT OF THE CITY by Pascal Monteil- Park Hotel

LandMark- Nungambakkam, Amethyst, Chamiers, Bombay General Stores- Ana Nagar, Gangotree (Cathedral Road), Shilpi, Cedras (Koturpuram) Special student passes are available for PUSHED with Ms. Padmini Chettur, at Rs. 50/ You can also www.bookmyshow.com

visit

Taking the green message T

he employees of AT Road recently joined hands with Isha Foundation’s green cover initiative to distribute seedlings to about 1000 houses located in a village near Red Hills. The saplings were purchased from the contributions made by the employees as well as by the company, located in Tidel Park. Arthur, a village near Red Hills with about 1000 houses, was identified for the initiative. Apart from distribution, the employees also planted the seedlings in and around the school campus. A few days prior to the distribution an awareness campaign was also carried out in the school by volunteers from the village. Ergo Correspondent

04 VILLAGE

ERGO Thursday, November 27, 2008

Burger King Burger King uses approximately 500,000 pounds of bacon every month in its restaurants.

UN fears Zimbabwe on the verge of health-care collapse Concerned over the deteriorating humanitarian conditions in Zimbabwe, the UN Secretary-General has cautioned that an estimated 6 million people could soon require food aid as there was an outbreak of deadly cholera and collapse of health-care. In a statement the Secretary-General described the situation in the country as ‘now desperate’ and said it is likely to only worsen in the coming months as the political crisis continues there. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reported that the number of diagnosed cholera cases in Zimbabwe has now reached almost 9,000. PTI

Bhutto will be posthumously awarded UN HR award Slain former Pakistani premier Benazir Bhutto will be posthumously awarded the United Nations Human Rights Award on December 10 on the occasion of the UN Human Rights Day. The President of UN General Assembly, Miguel d’Escoto Brockmann, is in the process of informing Bhutto’s widower, President Asif Ali Zardari, about the decision. Instituted in 1968, the UN Human Rights Award honours people and organisations which have made an outstanding contribution to the promotion and protection of the human rights embodied in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and in other UN human rights instruments.

Finally, urine recycler passes astronauts’ test

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fter several days without luck, astronauts finally ran a successful test on equipment that turns urine into drinking water—a necessity for supporting the international space station’s crew, which will soon double. “Not to spoil anything, but I think up here the appropriate words are ‘Yippee!” space station commander Mike Fincke told Mission Control early on Weednesday, shortly before bedtime. “There will be dancing later,” Mission Control replied. Astronauts had spent a frustrating five days trying to get the urine processor working. But until early

Astronauts finally ran a successful test on equipment that turns urine into drinking water—a necessity for supporting the international space station’s crew

PTI

Mexican Senate passes right-to-die bill

Tuesday, the machine couldn’t last the four hours needed for a successful test run. Another urine processor test was planned later on Wednesday, shortly after the seven astronauts on the docked space shuttle Endeavour and the three space station crew members woke up. NASA added a 16th day to Endeavour’s mission so astronauts could tinker with the urine processor before the shuttle returns to Earth, possibly with the troubled equipment packed aboard. NASA managers had debated bringing part of the contraption back to Earth for repairs if tests weren’t successful. Endeavour is now set to undock Friday and land in Florida on Sunday. The urine processor makes up a section of the US$ 154 million water recycling system that was delivered to the space station by Endeavour. The machine is crucial to providing drinking water for the space station’s crew, which is supposed to double to six members next year. ■ PTI

Mexico’s Senate has approved a right-to-die law that would allow terminally ill patients to refuse invasive or extraordinary efforts to prolong their lives. The Senate’s official Website says the bill passed 85-0. It has already been approved by Mexico’s lower house and now must be signed into law by the president. The bill passed does not legalise mercy killing or assisted suicide. Rather, any patient wishing to refuse treatment would have to sign a written petition in the presence of two witnesses. Law requires physicians to make all reasonable efforts to preserve the lives of their patients. PTI

Coup won’t resolve Thai crisis - army chief Thailand’s army chief Anupong Paochinda insisted on Wednesday he would not launch a coup to resolve the six-month-old political crisis. “If a coup could end all the troubles, I would do it,” Anupong told reporters. “It is not going to resolve anything,” he said, amid speculation the government might sack him for proposing that Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat quit. Meanwhile, the protesters tightened their grip over Bangkok’s international airport on Wednesday, causing chaos in the terminal and triggering speculation of imminent intervention by the military. Reuters

05

Thursday, November 27, 2008

This day, that year

Koala conversation

It was on November 27, 1779 that the College of Pennsylvania became the University of Pennsylvania, making it America’s first legally recognized university.

Scientists are using mobile telephones to eavesdrop on koalas to understand what they are saying.

Kennel for US$ 3,80,000 A The kennel has been designed by leading British architect Andy Ramus and will be built from materials such as zinc, glass and limestone

dog’s life? It will probably be the object of envy in Britain, which will soon have the world’s costliest dog house, pegged at 2,50,000 pounds (US$ 3,80,000). The luxury house is coming up on the property of a lady surgeon in a private estate near Cirencester in Gloustershire for a pair of pet Great Danes. It has been designed by leading British architect Andy Ramus and will be built from materials such as zinc, glass and limestone. When completed, it will be a quarter of the size of the main three-bed house. The house will actually be two separate accommodations fronting either side of the main house. Each set will have a living room, dining area and bedroom. But the Danes will have to share the common swimming pool and recreation areas, reports the Daily Mail. The kennel will admit the dog after a security retina scan. The day lounge will have a 52-inch plasma television playing dogfriendly programmes. There will also be a 1,50,000 pound music system if the dog wants to yap away its time.

When hungry, the dog will have to just paw the food and drinks dispenser. They will be automated with chilled, filtered water and deluxe dry food. The pet will not have to bother about cleaning its bowl: they are self-cleaning after every meal. Sleep time and the dog can shut eye on a sheepskin-lined bed, which is temperature-controlled. They are elevated to allow the dogs to watch over the house. ‘Dog-vision’ webcams will allow their owner to monitor their activity 24 hours a day. Not the least, another house will be built adjacent to the dog house, for the dogs’ mistress to live in. The local council has approved the plans and construction will begin next spring. The owner wants to remain anonymous. Jeremy Paxton, owner of the private estate where the house is located, said: “Most houses are built with human specifics in mind and animals fit in around that - but this is the other way round. It’s a very interesting house with fabulous architecture and unusual requirements.” ■

Thousand hands

Recession hits Christmas cards T

As part of an austerity package designed to cut public spending, only electronic yuletide and New Year greetings will be sent from state institutions

he Latvian government, currently wrestling with a domestic economic crisis, probably isn’t on many voters’ Christmas card lists this year - which is just as well as the government banned itself from sending Christmas cards on Tuesday. As part of an austerity package designed to cut public spending, only electronic yuletide and New Year greetings will be sent from state institutions, unless departments obtain special permission to send a traditional card. Civil servants hoping to enjoy a kiss with colleagues under the Christmas mistletoe are in for disappointment too, as the government has also banned spending on official office parties. Other measures include clamping down on bonuses and cash awards, and restrictions on business trips and training seminars. ■ DPA

쒀 Chinese dancers perform the ‘Thousand Hand’ dance on stage during the Asian Football Confederation National Team of the Year award in Shanghai on Tuesday. AFP PHOTO

IANS

06 SPORT

ERGO Thursday, November 27, 2008

No place for Asif in ICL The Indian Cricket League has rubbished Mohammad Asif’s claim that he was approached by the “rebel” league with a mouth-watering offer and said the disgraced Pakistani pacer first has to come out clean from all doping charges. ICL executive board member and tournament director, Kiran More said they have no intentions of signing up the dope-tainted pacer, who seemed to have been spreading false rumours to pressurise the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Million Dollar

Phelps miracle After winning his sixth gold medal of the Beijing Olympics, Michael Phelps feared he wouldn’t be strong enough to win his seventh. But a mistake by Serbian rival Milorad Cavic allowed Phelps to pull out an improbable win in the 100-meter butterfly. Phelps, who went on to break Mark Spitz’s record by winning eight golds in China, discussed his performance in an interview with the CBS news show 60 Minutes, to be broadcast on Sunday. After winning the 200 individual medley, Phelps expressed his fears to coach Bob Bowman. “I got nothing left,” he remembered saying to Bowman, according to an excerpt of the interview released by the network. Bowman saw it, too. “If you look at the pictures right after the (200 IM) and even when I was standing there and he was in the water, I thought, ‘Wow, he is really tired right now,’” Bowman told 60 Minutes. In the fly, Cavic was clearly ahead as the two swimmers approached the wall. The Serbian glided to the finish with his arms outstretched, while Phelps took an extra half-stroke that gave him the victory by one-hundredth of a second – the smallest possible margin.

BABIES Two unknowns from the land of kabaddi and cricket have been signed up by Pittsburgh Pirates of USA’s Major League Baseball

PTI

ERGO CORRESPONDENT

Symonds apologies for pub brawl After getting a clean chit from Cricket Australia in the pub brawl fiasco, embattled all-rounder Andrew Symonds has apologised to teammates for putting them through this distraction and regretted his decision to visit the hotel. “I maintain that I acted appropriately while at the hotel, but I regret making the decision to visit the hotel as I realise I put myself in a compromising position,” Symonds said in a statement released by CA. “I have told my teammates that I am sorry to have put them through this distraction at a time when they are trying to prepare for a Test match so soon after the Brisbane game, particularly those who were also at the hotel and were named in media reports,” he added. Symonds said he was still going through counselling sessions and promised to come out as a better person. “I have been and am still going through a counselling process and I give my teammates, Cricket Australia and Australian cricket fans a commitment that I will continue the counselling work which, as I have already said publicly, is something I want to use to help me understand how and why I behave so I can be a better person,” he said. PTI

[email protected]

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inku Singh, coming from a nondescript village of Holepur, might have become a carpet manufacturer like many from the Bhadohi district of Uttar Pradesh but his “milliondollar arm” has taken him all the way to USA as Major League Baseball’s Pittsburgh Pirates snapped up the Indian in a landmark deal earlier this week. The 20-year-old, who can pitch the ball at a whopping 87 mph and had never held a baseball until April this year, became the first Indian player to ink free agent contacts with a major US sports organisation along with fellow pitcher Dinesh Patel. The two pitchers were discovered in India by a promoter who staged a “Million-Dollar Arm” contest in the country looking for talented cricketers who could possibly become groundbreaking talents for the favourite American pastime. About 37,000 people in the age group of 16 to 21 took part in the event and left-hander Singh bagged the top spot and a prize of $ 1 million, but Patel also impressed with a higher velocity throw, clocking 93 mph once in practice. Speaking about his new sign-

ings, Pittsburgh general manager Neal Huntington, back in a press conference in the US, said: “We are intrigued by Patel’s arm strength and Singh’s frame and potential. These young men have improved a tremendous amount in their six-month exposure to baseball, and we look forward to helping them continue to fulfil their potential.” The duo would be returning to India for 10 days before joining Pirates’ pre-season training camp facility in Bradenton, Florida, in mid January to start monitored throwing and exercise programmes. Excelling in the competition, they travelled to San Francisco and fine-tuned their pitching skills under University of Southern California pitching coach

Tom House. After a six-month crash course the two pitched thrice in front of MLB scouts, the last time being 10 days ago at the university field. The 5’11” Patel is the harder thrower of the two and also throws a circle change. The 6’2” Singh can reach the low-90s and has learned a split-finger changeup. The signing of the two can boost India’s chances at the Asian Championships in March, but Amateur Baseball Federation of India general secretary P. C. Bharadwaj is not sure about the availability of the two players. “I have never interacted with these two players. The American private company for some strange reason never got in touch with the federation as is the usual norm. I don’t know about their contract details and availability so it’s not right for me to comment on anything. But if they are in India later this year and they want to represent their country we can always call them to the camp and have a look,” he said. While the duo is soaking in their newfound glory, they have to work extra hard to make it to the Pirates team and their cultural shift from cricket to baseball may take much longer than any fairytale. ■

07

Thursday, November 27, 2008

‘‘

In India, it was the first time I’d played a Test series over there and by the end I felt like I was able to adapt, especially with the ball, and really improve. That’s how you get confidence and improve as a cricketer. So from my point of view, I’d prefer to play in all conditions because that’s the only way I will learn and improve. Shane Watson

Arsenal scrape through English and Spanish duo in Champions League knockout stage

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ngland and Spain had a good night in the Champions League on Tuesday as each country saw two sides progress to the knockout stages. Titleholders Manchester United went through on the back of a 0-0 draw with Villarreal, who also qualified as Celtic’s dreadful away record continued with defeat against Danish side Aalborg. Arsenal put their recent woes on and off the pitch behind them by going through after a 1-0 win at home to Ukrainian league leaders Dynamo Kiev, Nicklas Bendtner scoring the only goal while 2004 Champions League winners FC Porto also progressed courtesy of a 2-1 win against Fenerbahce in Istanbul. Spanish giants Real Madrid ensured they reached the knockout stages by edging a 1-0 win against Belarus side BATE Borisov – Raul’s goal putting him equal with Filippo Inzaghi as the competition’s all-time top scorer with 64 goals. Also through are seven-time French champions Lyon – who beat Fiorentina 2-1 – and Bayern Munich, after they eased past Steaua Bucharest 3-0.

Uninspiring game United and Villarreal fought out a pretty sterile draw – the fourth time both sides have ended up 0-0 in the Champions League – but Sir Alex Ferguson was happy with the result even though his team had a one man advantage for the last eight minutes after Joan Capdevilla was sent-off. “I thought we deserved better out of this match,” said the Scot, who has guided the team to two Champions League trophies in his time in charge. “I was

Nicklas Bendtner of Arsenal celebrates scoring the only goal during the UEFA Champions League Group G match against Dynamo Kiev at the Emirates Stadium. PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES

satisfied with the second-half performance and I felt that Villarreal were just happy to get the draw.” The livewire Scot’s comments were backed up by Villarreal goalkeeper Diego Lopez. “We wanted to qualify and the draw helps us do that so we have to be happy,” said Lopez. “We played well and a big plus tonight was the defence.” Ferguson’s bitter rival Arsene Wenger looked a relieved man after his Arsenal team had ensured their place in the knockout stages after last week’s shenanigans had seen William Gallas stripped of the captaincy for criticising his team-mates and then a desperate 3-0 defeat to Manchester City.

All’s well Wenger praised both the new skipper Cesc Fabregas and Gallas, who even had the ball in the net at one point but it was ruled out for offside – Bentdner ensured they took all three points with a late goal. “Cesc was very good for me. He was focused for 90 minutes and worked hard defensively and offensively,” Wenger said. “It wasn’t easy in midfield. Overall he had a very good game. William’s focus was great. He wanted to do well and you could see he was completely committed. I was very happy that the fans responded in a positive way to him.” However, Wenger said he hoped that this victory would prove pivotal to the Gunners season. “It is the first step for us. What the team needs is reassurance and at least we have that now,” he said. ■ AFP

08 ROADSTER

ERGO Thursday, November 27, 2008

Production cuts likely at Porsche, Volkswagen Volkswagen and its future owner Porsche said on Tuesday that they would very likely suspend production temporarily owing to weak demand. VW was mulling the closure of its main plant in northern Wolfsburg for three weeks during the year-end holidays to avoid costly overproduction that threatens almost the entire global auto sector. ■ AFP

Economic, eco-friendly: E-bikes u

Electric bikes are making inroads into the Indian market in a big way, but the biggest challenge is not na Some of the common queries you had before switching over to an e-bike:

Economical, ecofriendly Petrol and diesel prices have crashed in the international market, but for ordinary citizens there seem to be no respite – nobody is talking of a rollback, at least till today. That probably is where e-bikes come into the picture. Today, e-bikes are one of the best alternative forms of transport – both economical and environment-friendly. How much do you save on an

e-bike in comparison to a petrolrun vehicle? A typical petrol-driven vehicle requires one to spend around Rs.1.20 per km on running costs, beside an annual maintenance that comes to around Rs. 2,000 per year. Srinivasan K.B., General Manager, E-Bikes, TI Cycles of India, explains: “Battery-driven scooters, on the other hand, spend around Rs. 0.08 per km as running cost for the electricity consumed for charging. However, the battery costs between Rs. 4,000 and Rs. 8, 000 and depending on the model chosen you would have to replace it once in 18 - 24 months.” “Now, if we assume the user rides only 600 km a month, this would mean 10,800 km for every battery change, meaning Rs.0.25 per km to Rs.0.75 per km of battery cost. If you add this to the

running cost, battery-operated scooters would still be more economical to run by 30 to 70 per cent.” If you are not looking for great speed in your bike, models with a speed of 25 km/hr or below are even more economical.

Brand matters There are a dime-a-dozen manufactures cashing in on the e-bike market. The industry is pretty young, so make sure you buy from a reputed player. Preferably, a player with a pan-Indian presence rather than one restricted to a state or two. A company with R&D or manufacturing facility should be even more trustworthy. Remember, the ARAI (Automotive Research Association of India) certification is more for

conformance to mandatory regulations, but does not hold any guarantee for product performance, quality or reliability. So, don’t get carried away if your dealer boasts of having certifications.

Long live the bike That’s another hundred-dollar question. What is the life span of an e-bike? Well, just like your ordinary bike, e-bikes also depend on how much care and maintenance you give it. But, unlike other vehicles here the annual maintenance cost is negligible as there are fewer mechanical parts. The cost of changing the battery, which is around Rs. 5,000, is the major expense you have to incur once every two years. “The battery has a life span of up to 30,000 km in most cases, after which it

has to be changed,” says Uma Pachaiyappan, proprietor, Sairam Motors, dealing with Ultra Motor.

250 or le tratio not a

Maintenance is the key Cha Thanks to the increasing number of dealers in the city, even if your vehicle is stuck in the middle of the road you could call for help. Make sure the dealer outlet has a well-equipped and stocked service station. Also, avoid overloading or racing on an e-bike – it might drain the battery.

No registration, no license! What is all this hue and cry

If men why over char not w ity char ting som EB p to w laun wher be c

09

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Audi to revive A2 Audi is planning to revive its microcar the A2 as a sport model with a high roof to round off the compact A1 and A3 model segments, the German auto magazine Auto Bild reports. The A2 made its debut in 1999. However, Audi ceased production in 2005 after relatively poor sales despite its futuristic design and good fuel consumption figures. DPA

unplugged

avigating on them but changing people’s perception.

factory in rear ) At the TI (Clockwise e battery area and h heeler. T -w r; o u ctric tw Ambatt le e d e e p S o AR D S.S. KUM wheel of Y IVAJI RAO AN S: R. SH FILE PHOTO

about e-bikes? According to the ARAI, only vehicles with 0 watt or less (or with 25 km ess) are exempted from regison and license. And this does apply to all electrical vehicles.

arging troubles

you are staying in an apartnt, it is probably one reason you are hesitant to switch r to an e-bike. How can I rge my bike? My owners are willing to share their electricbill. What if I forget to rge?… . Manufactures are getsmarter these days. While e will help you connect the power from the ground floor whichever floor, others have nched a separate meter box re your electricity bill could alculated individually. ■

Hayabusa, Intruder in India J

apanese two-wheeler major Suzuki on Wednesday launched its two hyper sports bikes – Hayabusa and Intruder M1800R – in India, both priced at Rs 12.5 lakh (exshowroom Delhi). Hayabusa would be powered with a 1,340 cc engine, while Intruder would be available with a 1,783 cc V-twin engine. “This launch is very significant when we are globally surrounded by uncertainties... Suzuki has been delivering superior technology, which has been proven world-wide. We intend to showcase the same in India,” Suzuki Motorcycle India Vice-President (Sales & Marketing) Atul Gupta told reporters. The bikes will be available in Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Pune, Mumbai and Ahmedabad. ■ PTI

10 FLICK

ERGO Thursday, November 27, 2008

Amy Winehouse in hospital Singer Amy Winehouse is in hospital after reacting badly to medication, a spokesman said on Tuesday. The 25-year-old Grammy winner was admitted to a clinic after falling ill on Sunday and has been kept there for tests. Winehouse was taken to hospital for a similar complaint in July. Reuters

Beatles’ iTunes talks “stalled”: McCartney

Friday night fever

T

alks to put The Beatles’ catalogue on Apple’s iTunes online music store have stalled, former Fab Four member Paul McCartney told the BBC. The Beatles is one of the few big acts left whose music is not available on iTunes, but the settlement of a trademark dispute between Apple and The Beatles’ company Apple Corps Ltd last year was seen as finally clearing the way. ■

With Oye! It’s Friday, Farhan Akhtar returns to television

Reuters

A horse almost killed him

H RADHIKA BIRANI

F

our years after being a judge on dance reality show Nach Baliye, filmmaker-actor Farhan Akhtar is returning to TV as the host of Oye! It’s Friday. And there are all chances of him turning producer for the small screen in the near future. “Production for television is a strong possibility I have in mind for future. We have been thinking over it and I do have a team that has been brainstorming over the idea for some time now. But my hands are so full right now, it’s tough to take a call on it,” says Farhan. “As of now, I am dedicating my time entirely to my films. Devoting time to decide the creative aspect of a show we want to produce is not something I feel is possible. But it will happen sometime,” he adds. Farhan is really excited about Oye! It’s Friday!, which will go on

air December 12 on NDTV Imagine. “Oye! It’s Friday! seemed like just the concept I wanted to do. After I did Nach Baliye, I wasn’t averse to the small screen, but everyone was offering me similar reality shows. But when I was approached for this show, I was quite excited. They are trying to do something different with TV content and the concept is something new for Indian production,” says Farhan. The show is all about entertainment sans any specific format. It has humour, music, dance performances and celebrity guests all rolled into a one-hour show. Farhan will host the first few episodes of the weekly show and then another celebrity will take over the task from him. Farhan, who has proved his mettle as an actor with hit Rock On!!, says he took up this show because he could bring alive his own creativity through it.

“I can apply my original, signature style of humour to this show without having to use the usual stuff on TV, which is mostly slapstick. I am scripting the show and I hope to grab new eyeballs and add a new contingent to the small screen with this show.” As a filmmaker, Farhan has given hits like Dil Chahta Hai, Lakshya and Don: The Chase Begins Again and has felt a constant need to diversify. With two acting projects – Luck By Chance and a psychological thriller – already in his kitty, Farhan says his final calling is films and entertainment. “I don’t think these two need to be broken down any further. Whatever I do, I believe I want to do it and I can do it. If there is even a one percent doubt in my mind about it, I’ll never do it. So as long as I can experiment with various fields in entertainment, I will,” he signs off. ■ IANS

ugh Jackman says he almost died while filming a horse riding scene for the new movie, Australia. Jackman says the helmet saved his life. Contactmusic.com reports him saying: “Six months into training they brought in a rearing horse. The safety officer happened to be on set. He’s always a chump. He’s the guy nobody wants around. He came over with a motorcycle helmet and a padded jacket. He was like, ‘Please wear it, please. For insurance.’” “All the horsemen were sniggering, saying, ‘Wuss’. I reluctantly put it on. As I pulled on the reins, the horse’s head came back and hit me on the motorcycle helmet. I flew back off the horse and landed on my back. I didn’t move for about five minutes. I’m pretty sure if I hadn’t worn the helmet I would be dead.” He added: “In Australia, if you fall off a horse, you have to say the words ‘just taking a piss’ before you hit the ground. If you don’t get the words out, you have to buy a bottle of whiskey for everyone in the horse crew, which is about 25 people.” ■ IANS

11

Thursday, November 27, 2008

No more acting Clint Eastwood (78) says he will not act in another film after starring in his current project Gran Torino. Accroding to mirror.co.uk, the five-time Oscar winner is tipped to pick up his first Academy Award as an actor for the drama, which is about a racist Korean War veteran’s attempts to reclaim his stolen car. “That will probably do it for me as far as acting is concerned,” said Eastwood who will continue to direct films. IANS

The funniest man she’s worked with

O

scar-winner Reese Witherspoon says she is baffled by reports of tension between her and co-star Vince Vaughn on the set of new holiday season comedy Four Christmases. Speaking in Beverly Hills ahead of the new film’s US release on Wednesday, Witherspoon described towering Wedding Crashers star Vaughn as the “funniest man she has worked with.” “Every co-star I ever work with I’m either having an affair with him, I’m about to get married with him, or having a baby or we absolutely cannot stand each other,” Witherspoon (32) said of gossip reports. “We got along great, we were very good friends and we were very much partners on this movie,” added Witherspoon, who won an Academy Award in 2006 for her performance in Johnny Cash biopic Walk the Line. “Vince is the funniest person I’ve ever worked with. It was a challenge for me to stay there and keep up with him. But I feel really a better actor for that experience,” she added.

The difference in height between Witherspoon and Vaughn – he stands at 6’5”, she is a petite 5’2” – did cause headaches. In some dancing scenes Vaughn was required to carry Witherspoon in order for her to fit in the camera frame. Witherspoon’s latest role sees her and Vaughn play a couple who are forced to abandon their plans for an exotic Christmas vacation and must visit their four parents separately over the holiday period. The chaos that ensues forces them to re-examine their relationship. Mother-of-two Witherspoon, who divorced actor Ryan Philippe in 2007 and who is now romantically linked to Brokeback Mountain star Jake Gyllenhaal, said she was attracted by the story of juggling family commitments at Christmas. “I’d never seen anyone do the idea of the blended family and how they have to go to a million different places at Christmas,” she said. “But I hear people complain about it constantly and it’s a situation my own children will have to deal with.” ■ AFP

Cine City Arya to act in Malayalam flick

New styles of filmmaking

Actor Arya is venturing into Malyalam films. A Malayalee by birth, the actor will play second fiddle to actor Mohanlal in a project titled Casanova, to be directed by Roshan Andrews. The shooting of the movie will start in a couple of months. Scripted by Bobby Sanjay, the movie will also feature Jagathy Sreekumar, Lalu Alex and Rahman in key roles. Meanwhile, Arya’s Naan Kadavul, directed by Bala, is yet to release.

After director Priyadarshan bagged all international awards with his Kanchivaram, many directors have opted for similar scripts set against the backdrop of India before Independence. At the moment, director Vijay, who shot to fame with Kireedom and Poi Solla Porom, is busy working on a similar script based on a Chennai youngster, played by Arya, falling in love with a British princess. www.cinesnacks.com

12

ERGO Thursday, November 27, 2008

Wednesday’s Question: If Nayanthara were your boss, how would you impress her?

of Billa fame car walking scene and bikini scene

■ Will sing a song for her engayeo partha mayakam

■ I will put her photos as wallpaper and screensaver in my PC

Gowrisankar, Ramco Systems

■ I will work 24 hours Rajesh R, Rajesh, Ravi, Praveen R and Satha

Pravin.S, TCS Sujatha, Patni, Nirmala, Perot Systems

■ I will not come to office in Simbu get up Sridher, Perot Systems

■ Wear very minimal costume Vinitha, HCL

■ Simple look. Cute work. Because she will believe in the words-"alaga office ku varatha vida alaga work mudikarathu than mukiyam" Aravinth Raj, TCS

■ Set the ring tone as "Konjam neram... Konji pesa koodaatha" and have my friend buzz me when I meet with my boss Sridhar R, STG

■ Officela punctualla erupen. Workla sincera erupen. Smarta dress panuven. Outsidela herova erupen my boss parka sola Rathinavel V.A, HCL Technologies

■ Get her the latest bikini beach wear for her next flick Arun J, Infosys

■ I say to my boss that I hate Simbhu and like Danush. So I will get more hike in salary Suresh MP, Ramco Systems

■ Me: "Hi.. Nayanthara.. I am dhanabal.. Naa idha solliye aaganum.. Neeee... avvlo azhagu !! Inga evanum ippadi oru... mmm... ivlo azhaga paathurukka maattaan !!.." Nayanthara: I think u want "Salary Hike".. Am I right ? Dhanabal, TCS

■ I would sing like ’ Aegan’ AJITH (unnai partha pinpudhan) Vel Mani, Birla Soft

■ I will bring Simbu in front of her and let her give him a hard slap

Manivannan of Wipro Technologies has nominated his team as Partners in Crime. The pic was clicked at ’Farm House Resort’ in ECR.

Satheesh KC, Cognizant

■ I will bring nenthiram chips Räjgänesh, TCS

■ Everyone will be going behind her but I will stay away, (but at the same time enjoy the beauty of hers) create a nice boy impression and spend time with her maximum as a nice boy who is different from other normal guys Hariharan, Sify

■ By impressing Nayanthara’s mother. Then full love no work in office Vinod, HCL

■ By gifting her costly cosmetic items and ultra modern dresses Krishnan, L3, Wipro

Nishunth Anandhan of Verizon has nominated his friends as Partners in Crime. This pic was clicked at GRT Temple Bay.

■ I will give gift everyday to her brother’s child. She got a chance in cine field while the baby was born. She likes the baby too Lavenya, Calsoft

■ I will show my six-pack Kannan, Sify Techonologies

■ Make Simbu my friend Satya, TCS

■ I will sing vechku vaa unnam mattum nenjikulla sathyama unvedda varra greatna boss illa Saravana, Financial Software Systems

■ I’ll sing lacha vadhieea enga teamai asatum radieae Jagan, Capgemini

■ I’d offer her a role in my directorial venture with the assurance

Today’s Query: If vada-pav is brand Mumbai, we feel sambar-idly should be brand Chennai. Come up with a tag line that will sell it.

Saravanan.M of TCS Solinganallur has nominated his team members as Partners in Crime. This pic was clicked at Queensland.

13

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Seethalakshmi.V of Satyam Computers has been nominated as Office Angel by Jayanthi Sekar. Seetha is very helpful and caring. She carries herself very well. I can never forget the way she encouraged and helped us during Radio Mirchi’s Clash Of Corporates. Such a charming girl with a really nice character and attitude

■ Dear Vidhya Hope ur Birthday gently breezes into ur life all the choicest of things and all that ur heart holds dear. We wish u many more Happy returns of the day. With Love, Akhilla, Anbu, Revs, Krupa, Sowmi, Sofi, Vani & Sridevi, Infosys

■ Dearest UPMA FAMILY uma Naanga un birthday ku ergo la wish panla na SLIPPERS FLYING la varum nu sonna la athuku bayanthuto nee tha rumba SILENT GAL la athukaga unna kushi paduthavo naanga greetings anupala.. Engalukum Upma va pidikum , adhan. Happie Birthday to u! Aathaadi Divi, Ottuka Sangi, Candy Raji, Angel Jayu, Satyam

■ Dear Sugi & Mathan "It takes real luck to find that ’special someone’ who’s the perfect match for u and Now that you ’ve found out urs". On your Engagement.. Loads of Joy & Happiness may fill ur hearts! With Love & Wishes, Rainbow Gals.. Gayathri(Wipro), Shalini(Wipro), Mano(CTS), Preethi(TCS), Suji(TCS), Suja(AMD), Mizpah(Lect. Vels),Latha(Lect.), Kanmani(Infosys), Indu, Raja (Lect.), Jeba.

■ Dear Kiru(Maakki), Wish u many more Happy Birthday. God bless u. May this year brings u a lot of Happy & Prosperous moments in your life.

Ramkumar. K of Changepond Technologies doodled this.

Cheers, PACE Team, Polaris

■ Dear Janani We wish that all ur dreams come true. May ur day be filled with joy. On ur day We wish for u Favorite people to embrace, Loving smiles and caring looks, That earthly gifts cannot replace. Happy Birthday Janani!! With Lots of Luv, Brindha, Daisy, Deepa, Furzana, Kavin, Meena, Narmadha, Vennila,

■ Dear Gayathri Many more Happy returns of the day. May god bless you. Ensoi. Team Sreeni & Team Kevin & Friend, Allsec

■ Hi Sanju kutti Wish u happy birthday in advance. Let this year give u more reasons to smile. May God bless u with Good health and Happiness forever :-)

Mudi Valantha vettikalam! Nagam Valantha vetikalam! Ana arivu valantha vetika mudiyumaa ???? Asif Ahmed.N Sify Technologies Ltd

Kalpakkam poi kallu vaangalam… Meenambakkam poi meenu vaangalam… Aana, oorappakkam poi ooru vaanga mudiyuma? Mohamed Yusuf deen J, HCL

1. In Exam hall : Professor : Dai ! ennada kaiyila Formula eluthi iruka :!!!!! Student : Enga Maths Professor thaan Formula ellaam Finger tip’la irukanumnu sonnar :-) 2. Oru ponnu Bus’la Seat irunthum Ukkaravea illa why? kandupidinga parkkalaam! Yean na Antha Ponnu Name Amaravathi... Padma, TCS

Sweet wishes from, Mom,Dad,Family members, Susi,Anu & Anitha, Wipro.

■ Hi Priya. R (a) REP Don’t fail in life as Indhu used to say. Eat healthy food like PVG. Be soft like Alice. Have a structure like Shyams. Smile like MSM. May u live a long life like Booms’ hair. Have a powerful sight like Prabha. And be sharp as Lux.Happy birthday baby!!!! Karthika, Cognizant

■ Hi Anu It’s a nice feeling when u know that someone likes u, someone thinks about u, but it feels much better when u know that

someone never ever forgets ur bday. Happy Birhday:) With Love, Sundar, Wipro

■ Dear Sharmistha Chatterjee Happy Birthday Dearie. We wish u a very fabulous future ahead!God Bless u! Remember us always as we do!!!:) Yours... Gang 17thDecember2008 oracle.

■ Dear Chinu (Chiranjeevi) We all wish u a very Happy Birthday. May God shower you all his blessings through out your life. May ur laughter bring us more joy & peace. With Luv, Savitha, Nikhita, Abhilavv and Family. TCS

■ Dear Kalai Wishing you all the best in the year to come. May your days be filled with sunshine and beautiful colors. And may your nights be filled with comforting dreams and wishes to come.Happy Birthday da Best wishes, Vinoth, Congruent Solutions

■ Dear Parthi From morning till night, May ur birthday be bright, And nicer than ever before, And as years come and go, May ur happiness grow, And your dreams be fulfilled even more Happy Birthday to u" ---with Love, Butterflies, Wipro

■ Dear Makesh Wish you Many More Happy Returns of the day and colourful years ahead with success. Cheers, Diners Chargeback Team" citi group

■ Dearest Narayani and Ramesh May your bonds of matrimony strengthen, Holding strong amidst any fears. And may our friendship stay untarnished, Through the wearing of the years. Wishing u both many more happy years! Happy Anniversary!!! With Love and Care Malarkodi Thilak, Aspire Systems

■ Dei Mohan(Loud Speaker), Iniya piranthanaal vaazhthukkal da. Ippoe poelave romba varushathukku un voice torture ellorukkum irukanum nu kadavul kitte vendikaroem Frienz Forever, Viji, Bhagee, Manoj, Rasu, Ramesh, John, Raja, Mani n Naresh, Infosys

■ Dear Senthil,Jayanthi & Vasanthi In the rhythm of life we sometimes find ourselves out of tune, But as long as there are friends to provide the melody, the music plays on. Hearty Birthday wishes from all of us Payments, CGSL.

■ Sweetie WROSE You are my heart beat & my sweetie would be! I wish u in my end of life. Many More Happy Returns Of The Day. I am praying almighty to bless u ever.....

S.Jagabar Ali, Perot Systems

14 TRAFFIC JAM

ERGO Thursday, November 27, 2008

Obesity documentary sued TV bosses are facing a GBP10,000 lawsuit after filming a passer-by on the street for a documentary about obese people.

sudoku

S. Guhanathan of CSS Corp clicked this picture in the IIT- Madras campus. Hobbies: Quizzing, research, nature photography

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]

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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

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Birthday mistake

Word’s worth

One of Britain’s oldest women has been celebrating her birthday on the wrong day - for more than a century.

"Iconomach" (eye-kah-nuh-mak) a rare word meaning ’one who is hostile to images.’

B.C ARIES MARCH 21 - APRIL 20 You will be more concerned about work. In order to finish off your work in time, you may put in lot of effort. In case of love relationships, you might have to put in lots of efforts, there may be difference of opinion between you and your partner or beloved.

TAURUS APRIL 21 - MAY 20 It may be an easygoing day for you. You may be taking everything easy. For important work, you may expect other people’s help or you may wish that others also share your workload. In love life, you may remain possessive or over-demanding.

GEMINI MAY 21 - JUNE 20 You will not be in a mood to put in extra efforts at workplace. If you are willing to take a decision related to career, Ganesha shows you red-signal. In love life, you may expect your partner to love you intensely but there are chances of disappointment.

BORN LOSER

CANCER JUNE 21 - JULY 20 The day is not much in your favour hence you are suggested to remain cool. If you take up more activities at once, you may fail to handle. Pragmatic approach will help you handle the day. Your spouse may display lot of love and care.

LEO JULY 21 - AUG 20 Things that you are generally able to finish in ‘no time’ will take little more time to finish. You may be dealing with lots of tasks. While you put in more efforts at work to finish off such activities, you are advised to take good care of health.

VIRGO AUG 21 - SEPT 20

FREE RANGE

WORKING IT OUT

It is relatively a hassle free day for you. Ganesha foresees you handling your work very easily. It’s best day to propose someone, as you will be able to express your emotions very nicely. Married couples may enjoy greater intimacy today.

LIBRA SEPT 21 - OCT 20 You will not be able to handle your work efficiently. Be careful while drafting emails for, there are chances of some misgivings. Domestic matters may demand your attention. You may be very much concerned about those whom you love the most.

SCORPIO OCT 21 - NOV 20 It is day to deal with lot of mental and intellectual hard work. Today you will be attending important meetings or exchanging emails with important people. Your spouse may surprise you by something unusual which will add delight to the day.

SAGITTARIUS NOV 21 - DEC 20 Despite your effort to finish off routine work, you may not be able to finish desired work. If you are patient and prudent, you will be able to finish off considerable amount of work. Love life may be very smooth provided you avoid putting off your beloved.

CAPRICORN DEC 21 - JAN 20 It is day to decide deadlines and delegate work to others. You may expect everyone else to put in more effort for you yourself are very charged up today. Your complete concentration is on work. Love life may remain charming and satisfactory.

PREVIOUS ISSUE’S SOLUTIONS

AQUARIUS JAN 21 - FEB 20 You should not expect anything great out of this day as you may be dealing with lot of pending work. Ganesha suggests you not to get depressed. Your subordinates would not be very supporting. In short, it’s a day to handle difficulties.

PISCES FEB 21 - MARCH 20 At office, superiors will appreciate your efforts. You will be handling high responsibility job or you may be assigned some new work. You may be very practical in your approach towards everything but in case of love life, you may remain emotional. Predictions by Bhavesh N. Pattni

16 !

ERGO Thursday, November 27, 2008

South Koreans dressed in Santa Claus costumes participate in a Santa Claus School class for the Christmas holiday season at the Everland amusement park on Wednesday in Yongin, South Korea. GETTY IMAGES

Ukrainian actress Olga Kurylenko attends the ‘Quantum of Solace’ Japan Premiere at Roppongi Hills on Tuesday in Tokyo, Japan. GETTY IMAGES

One look is all it takes NEWS AND NEWSMAKERS IN PICTURE

UNIFEM Goodwill Ambassador and actress Nicole Kidman appears at a press conference to announce the results of the ‘Say No to Violence against Women’ campaign, an internet-based petition, on Tuesday, at United Nations headquarters in New York. AFP PHOTO

Model Claudia Schiffer attends the British Fashion Awards 2008 held at The Lawrence Hall on Tuesday in London, England. GETTY IMAGES