I have always wondered about my little one’s patience when it comes to make-up and anchoring. For me, makeup is a boring thing and i don’t damn give it a try. But in her case, she can sit for the make up sessions for hours together. And today, too she did the same- almost three hours of making up the hair and face with three technicians around her.

I first experienced her interest in tv shows and patience to sit for make up when she was just 4 years. She was part of one dance reality show in Jaya TV (forgot the name, something that starts with Thakadimi – not the one by Radhika  Surajit-or so on) and she wore the makeup and costume and waited   till 11 pm since 6 am to finish the shoot. There were 4 costume changes and n no of retakes, as it was a dance reality show and finally the little one emerged the  runner-up among the age group 4 to 12- a pretty laudable feat for a 4 year old- who did bharatanatyam, folk, western and a film dance.

From there she has never looked back, she has done several tv shows, as an anchor and also as a guest. At the age of 18, she has interviewed most of the celebrities in the tamil cinema. And i got introduced to the kinds of Vijay Antony, GV and SS Kumaran thru her. However, the halo of doing all these things haven’t touched her so far and she remains pretty grounded.

Acting and emoting comes to her naturally and probably, down the line, i see a great opportunity for her in films. When she won lalithavin Pattukku pattu, Mr Hamid was making fun of her saying that than the emotions in the voice while singing, it’s the emotions in her face that’s fascinating the audience  (though at present she is totally against doing films even though several good offers are coming her way- her version is that she is happy what she’s doing now, balancing both the studies and a little bit of celebrity status)

Coming back to my state of mind today, after several days, i feel peaceful today. and i feel an inner peace almost descending on me, engulfing me, with its soft hands.

Probably, that is because, i am now engaged in what i am doing and what i like the best-writing. Also, i am immersed in solitude and away from the madness of my office.

So, the next thought is why not i embrace peace with open hands and allow it to surround me daily, by chucking the job that i don’t enjoy?

It seems, my organisation found out this newly created post for me, ( Now I realise what a fool was I to happily agree to this ‘promotion’ role without understanding the pitfalls – no grade change and no extra money, only ) only to break people. I’m sure not even a super woman can accomplish the role’s demands.

Let me come to the point. If it was losing the mobile phone last week, today, it is the blunder i did with my ATM card. I was badly in need of money, and have been pushing days by the ‘beg,borrow, steal’ method from my hubby’s purse, for the past so many days.

As I have to leave to Madurai to night, it was not possible for me to have an empty wallet and hence decided to withdraw some money. I tried it at an HDFC ATM at West Mambalam and as usual, in my extreme stress and confusion, i pinged the wrong pin no. Two attempts and oops…the card has been disabled.

So, what else, I require for a nice weekend. No money,  a trip to go and the as usual screw up from the top…

I can be happy on only one count that no one will envy me!

In that connection, the launch of BIG Chennaiite Awards, is truly a dream come true for me. As i told my hubby, even after i pass away, in one way or other, I will be remembered for this award. And for that I hope this organisation or at least some one, carry forward the concept and the gratitude behind this award.

The launch of the awards cannot be better than this. Actor Prasanna, film critic Madan, tv personality Ramesh Prabha and journalist Saptarshi and my friend violinist Lalitha- it was a memorable launch.

And I remain, looking forward to a colourful award nite. Let the almighty bless me with the strength and courage to execute it flawless.

And for the goof ups that happened on the day of the launch( falut not mine, but a reputed agency who acted amateurish) will be there in my next blog…

I always say that ours in a struggled generation. those of my age will surely agree to it atleast internally.

The struggle to get educated, the struggle to get employed and now the on going  struggle to get on a uniform level with the new generation and the technological advances. And in the whole process, the burning up is almost imminent and that’s what’s happening to me.

Now I am in the middle of a whirlpool. In the new age media world, where in marketing is the mantra and editorial is headed by a marketing manager. Probably, the only newspaper to still stand rooted will be The Hindu, where content is still the King and  editorial is  not compromised.

Coming to the present situation, where i am in, is somewhat funny. I was hired to head the content   but is doing the job of an event manager. Becoz, VISIBILITY AND TALKABILITY matters.

At this moment, what’s running in my mind is, over a period of time, i have mastered many arts- from writing to PR to selling to marketing and why not take the new found talent of mine in events a step further…

and end of the day, I know I am becoming a jack of all trades and master of none….

It’s the goodness of the good ol’ coconut that is the highlight of this spa massage. Named Coconut Caress, this whole body treatment is an appropriate choice for skin which has lost its sheen and suppleness due to the scorching heat. When my masseuse — Sarita, told me that this treatment was especially suited for dry skin, I decided to give it a try to bring some life back to my dry skin.
The treatment started with a scrub, wherein grated coconut mixed with specially prepared cane sugar and cardamom being gently rubbed on to the whole body. While the coconut ensured cooling and hydration, the cane sugar and cardamom powder worked like a body polish, exfoliating the dead skin and making it silky smooth. While I lay down enjoying the cool sensation of coconut essence being absorbed by my skin, I was in for a surprise. Sarita explained that the next step would include a plantain wrap. The plantain wrap, followed by a hot towel wrap was amazing, and I felt as though I was lying right in the lap of nature. After a steam session in the sauna chamber and wash, I was given a gentle cardamom oil massage. A perfect finish.

WHERE:

Health Club, Courtyard by Marriott

HOW MUCH:

Rs 1,800 + tax

DURATION:

45 to 60 minutes

HOT TIP:

Leave those creams, lotions and the chemical scrubs. Instead embrace the goodness of nature. It’s an experience by itself.

June 19,2009
PASSING THROUGH

Passion & poetry

Sugathakumari, the self-proclaimed troublemaker of Kerala was in the city recently. CT got talking to the poet and social activist

SINDHU VIJAYAKUMAR

Apoet, social activist and e nv i ro n m e n t a l i s t , Sugathakumari has merged her literary life with her fierce passion for social justice. As a poet, her romantic lyricism is unparalleled. And one can sense a deep melancholy at the core of her works.In her hands, the conventional story of Radha and Krishna is transformed into a saga of human longing. “You can’t find a concept more beautiful than Krishna. Be it baby Krishna, child, playmate, lover, king or guru — Krishna embodies love, kindness and happiness. For thousands of years poets, writers, dancers and artists have worked on this theme, but it has never become stale.”
It would come as a surprise to many, as to how someone who is so poetic about love and passion is also so vociferous and fiery when it comes to fighting social injustice. Her explanation is simple, “My poems and my activities deal with the same theme — humanitarian love.”
And it was this love for fellow beings that created history, when she lashed out at the treatment meted out to mentally ill patients in Kerala. She recalls, “Two decades ago, female patients in the government mental h o s p i t a l s were sexually abused and regularly sent to men in the neighbouring police camp. When I visited one of these hospitals, I saw withered women; stark naked, with bodies covered in s o re s. They were eating, lying and defecating in the filthiest conditions I still remember how I cried and ran out of the place.”
This was the beginning of her war against the officials. Finally, the High Court came to the rescue. “After a great struggle, the doors of these hospitals were thrown open. I am happy that the lives of mentally ill patients will never be that bleak again,” she sighs. It was then she founded Abhaya — an asylum for mentally ill women. Now, Abhaya takes care of destitute women and children, and provides free vocational training, de-addiction programmes and legal support.
She was the chairperson of the first women’s commission in the state and says that though she could not achieve much, she is content. “It was the first women’s commission and there was no system. We created the system and set a path for the next commission,” she says. On the Jagratha Samithi, a recommendation of the commission, she says, “If it is implemented properly, it will change the lives of women by providing them with easy access to legal support.”
On the contemporary woman, she says, “Today, women have become self-centred and indifferent. They are more concerned about beauty. Working women are a class apart, they are like bulls carrying a double load — never complaining.”
Citing alcoholism as the biggest problem faced by the world, she says, “Child abuse, a byproduct of alcoholism, has brought in a scenario wherein, children aren’t safe even within the walls of their own houses.”
However, her concern
does not stop with
women and children’s issues alone. A keen e nv i ro n – mentalist, she was in the forefront in s av i n g Silent Valley, wildlife and forests. But she regrets, “We have been repeatedly
failing in river conservation.”
Before concluding, she has a word of cheer, “I’m glad that Chennai has more trees than Thiruvananthapuram. Seeing the greenery here makes me happy.”
June 17, 2009
On a different note
CTcaught up with R Shyamaprasad, national award-winning moviemaker and celebrated scriptwriter, when he was in the city recently…

SINDHU VIJAYAKUMAR

Shyamaprasad’s journey started from making films for the small-screen and today, he is a globally-acclaimed film director! Ask him what prompts him to explore the nuances of complex relationship through his movies and he’s quick to reply. “I make such movies because life is very complex,” he replies.
The director has adapted many stories from different languages for his small screen work and movies. So, how does he choose his subjects? “I choose subjects that I can relate to. That may stem from my reading or sometimes through referrals.”
Shyamaprasad has also done a Hollywood film titled Bokshu — The Myth, which received a lot of appreciation. Ask him about that experience and he explains. “Producer Somadas was the producer of my national award-winning movie Agnisakshikal,” he says, “When he moved to the US, he wanted me to do a film and that’s how Bokshu — The Myth happened. It is based on a Hindi novel by Ganga Prasad Vimal. I find it easy to do a film based on a culture and colours that I am familiar with. It is not the language but the cultural difference that stops me.”
His last Malayalam film Ore Kadal, starring Mammooty and Meera Jasmine, explored the intricacies of human relationships, employing an evocative style and imagery surpassing realism. Ask him how he goes about choosing his actors, he says, “My selection is purely based to suit the script.”
The filmmaker is excited about his new film titled Ritu, which is in the post-production stage. “Ritu, which means season, is a story of youngsters and all the actors are new faces. Besides, the script is not an adaptation of any of the literary works,” he states. So, what is his favourite work so far? “It’s like choosing between your kids. It has to be my recent film as just like a new born, it needs support, nurturing and love.”
With Kollywood hitting the jackpot with sensible storyline and small budget movies, does he see such initiatives in Mollywood? “I am happy to see such a change. My film Ritu is also on similar lines — a youthful subject with an interesting narration,” he concludes
June 15, 2009
Bollywood bound?

Percussionist Sivamani, who was in Chennai, tells Chennai Times that he’s taking a break from cricket and making music instead

SINDHU VIJAYAKUMAR Times News Network

Sivamani is back to work after cheering the Chennai Super Kings in South Africa. But is he not watching the T-20 cricket world cup?
“I am missing cricket,” he says, but then, he quickly switches to a philosophical mode and adds, “It’s like music. If you keep listening to it non-stop, you will not enjoy it. You need to give it a break and then continue to absorb its beauty and essence. Similarly, after the hectic South African schedule, I’ve decided to give cricket a break and am now busy with music.”
After the success of his album Mahaleela, he is busy working on Mahaleela-II. “It’s again very personal. This time, I have incorporated what I couldn’t in my first album. The recording at Rajasthan palace will be the highlight. I am proceeding to Manasarovar to do some recordings there too,” he muses.
He’s also working with AR Rahman in his Hollywood project. But Sivamani regrets that he could not be present at the Oscar ceremony. “I had a show for Shivarathri at the Mookambika temple and was praying for Rahman. The next morning, it was a double treat for me. My sister called me to inform that Rahman had won the Oscars and that the Tamil Nadu government was to confer the Kalaimamani title on me,” he recalls.
When I could not attend his post-Oscar show in Kerala, Rahman sent me a message saying ‘Don’t ditch me next time.’
Sivamani says that he will be joining Rahman in the shows that are to be held at Dubai, Kolkata and Chennai.
Known for his ability to innovate, he says, “I am busy rehearsing with my boys, especially for the show.”
Having achieved so much, what’s he looking forward to? “I am trying my hands at music direction in Bollywood. I’ll soon have an announcement to make,” he smiles.
June 15, 2009
WHEAT DOUGH MASSAGE

The sun shows no signs of relenting and after a stressful work schedule, I need a pep. With not much time to spare, I call Anoo’s Beauty Salon and ask if they have any quick treatment to give my evening a boost. I am happy to know that they have a treatment tailor-made for people like me.
With a little apprehension about the time factor, I step into the salon.
The masseuse assures me that an organic facial and neck massage will do the trick. So I settle in with soft music playing in the background.
After quickly examining my skin, the therapist informs me that I need treatment for my oily skin. She prescribes a combination of wheat flour and pouch massage and assures me that all products used are organic.
My treatment begins with the cleansing process, which is done thoroughly using orange wedges dipped in milk. I am relaxed as my face feels fresh and radiant.
After this, I lie down fully expecting a wheat dough face pack. But I am in for a surprise. The wheat dough, made into satin-soft balls, are rolled on my face and neck, giving me a smoothening rub down. A mix of invigorating herbal ingredients, tied into a small pouch is then applied with a little heat. This is an enjoyable experience and I begin to feel the goodness of the herbs relieving my tired shoulder muscles.
The herbal face pack ensures that my skin and body receive the goodness of nature in the form of neem, mint and other herbs that have been made into a paste.
Once over, I feel relaxed, refreshed and radiant. I’m ready for the party.
WHERE: Anoo’s Beauty Salon
HOW MUCH: Rs 2,500 to Rs 7,000
DURATION: 45 minutes
HOT TIP: The coarse scrub massage using herbal
pouch exfoliates the skin, leaving it fresh.

June 12, 2009
NEW IN TOWN

Yummy chit-chaat

If bland is boring, then head to Kailash Parbat to tickle your tastebuds with sugar, spice and all things nice…

SINDHU VIJAYAKUMAR

When a restaurant with a rich legacy of taste and tradition comes to city, expectations are naturally high. That was the case with Kailash Parbat, which has recently opened its first outlet on Harrington Road. With a wide variety of Sindhi, north Indian and chaat delicacies to choose from, it wasn’t easy to take a pick. So, instead of doing a round up, I thought I would go one step at a time and savour their chaat this time.
Encouraged by the words of the chef, who claimed that their pani puris were the best, I chose to take a shot. The small puris, stuffed with assorted fillings, along with a generous helping of different chutneys resulted in the culmination of several rasas, ranging from tangy to spicy to sweet. I found myself vis iting the counter more than once. Their signature crispy corn basket proved to be a treat not only to the taste buds but also to my eyes.
The golden-hued batura with the chole masala literally melted in my mouth and I realised why people were queuing up for it. I’d had my fill and still I hadn’t tried the dahi puri, bhel puri, aloo-chaat and gulab jamuns. However, I decided to move on to the kulfis as I could not resist the lure of these mouthwatering icecreams. The kulfi faluda was indeed a double treat. And I decided to end my rendezvous with chaats with a tasty sev burfi that simply made me say “wow.”
June 12, 2009

O N M Y S H E L F

AUTHOR PEPITA SETH

Pepita Seth, photographer/writer was in the city to celebrate the publication of her latest book — Heaven on Earth: The Universe of Kerala’s Guruvayur Temple. What’s Hot got chit-chatting with her…

On the making of Heaven on Earth..

.
The book is the culmination of seven years of careful research. It portrays all aspects of life within the temple, its atmosphere and divinity. It chronicles the temple’s myth, history, the rituals followed there, its festivals, art forms and of course, elephants.

On her inspirations…

It was the chance discovery of my great grandfather’s diary in 1970 that made me visit India. On my way to Lucknow, I was awestruck to see elephants. And the people there told me that if I wanted to know more about elephants, I should go to Kerala. I was driven by passion and emotion about the region and I started photographing and writing about the rituals of Kerala’s Hindus. In 1981, I received official permission to enter Kerala’s temples—including Guruvayur temple. My first novel The Spirit Land on the Theyyam rituals of Malabar was published in 1994. In 2001, encouraged by the temple authorities, I began my research on the Guruvayur Temple.

Most memorable experience…

The toughest part for me was to understand the rituals of the temple and write about it. I sought the help of three people who were well-versed in it. About four years ago, in a single day, I had to spend 15 hours trying to learn the rituals from the scholars. The nuances and significance of the rituals made me think that even making nuclear reactors would be easier!
Again, as part of the research, I visited the temple on July 16, 2002 and stood near the sanctum sanctorum to witness the Deeparadhana. Even after so many years, its divinity still runs in my mind. It was an exhilarating experience.

On her photography…

I use an old Nikon camera, but never use flash. The people and authorities helped me capture many important and memorable moments. As I was aware of the rituals followed in temples, I knew when to expect what and shoot good pictures, especially during rituals and festivals.

What next?

I am going to start working on a book — again, it’s going to be on Theyyam. — SINDHU VIJAYAKUMAR
June 12,2009

taal talk

In search of Radha

SINDHU VIJAYAKUMAR

Mohiniyattam exponent Gopika Varma is all set to enchant the audience with her latest production Radhayevide (Where is Radha?). It’s a mohiniyattam dance production based on the poetic interpretations of a poem by renowned poet Sugatha Kumari. What’s Hot talks to the artiste…

On her inspiration…

Radhayevide is an adaptation of Sugatha Kumari’s famous poem with the same title. It all started when I met her a year ago at an awards function. I felt honoured when she asked me to adapt the poem for mohiniyattam. Soon after, I started reading it. But it took me almost six months to get into the skin of her protagonist, Radha.

On the theme…

The world of Vrindavan is based on the transcendental love-filled endeavours of Radha for Krishna. Usually, it is said that Radha was a gopi who was closer to Lord Krishna’s heart. But in the world of Vrindavan, she is Radharani, the empress. Radha marks the existence of Krishna, for she is his soul. While the trinity and the three worlds bow to Krishna; Krishna himself bows to Radha. Radha’s beauty, love, devotion and power create the ethics of love. Yet, Radha is ever innocent, simple and sweet. She continues to live through different incarnations — as Meera, as Aandal, as Kurooramma and so on. The presentation will be marked by the fluid movements and expressions that evoke a sense of nostalgia, purity, sanctity, devotion, sringara and viraha.

On the music…

The music for the dance has been composed by noted music director M Jayachandran. He has also sung for the dance. Singers Sujatha, Chinmayi, Sangita and Arundathi have also lent their voices. The presentation has original Meera bhajans and Thiruppavai, which add to its beauty.

On the innovation…

Mohiniyattam is known for its very graceful and swaying movements and the thrust is on bhava.Besides this, I’ve incorporated Mayura Nrutham in this presentation. It’s the ancient art of drawing pictures using the feet. I went to Thanjavur to learn the art. So, be there to discover the soul of Radha through the graceful mohiniyattam moves, replete with the elements of nritha, nrithya and bhava. Radhayevide will be presented on July 14, 6 pm at the Music Academy .
June 12,2009
No kuthu songs in this one!

SINDHU VIJAYAKUMAR

Manjal Veyyil, which is hitting the screens on June 12, will have a lot to offer it seems. According to the director of the movie, Vasigaran (earlier Raja), three people associated with the movie have made rapid strides in Kollywood. While lyricist Pa Vijay has gone on to become an actor, Bala and RK have also done meaty roles. The movie also has heroine Sandhya singing a song (apart from a kissing scene!). So, what about a kuthu song? A strict ‘no’ is what Vasigaran seems to be saying. “It (kuthu song) doesn’t give any mileage for the film and is outdated. There aren’t any of those in Manjal Veyyil,” he muses.
Though there are two heroes in the movie (Prasanna and Bala), Vasigaran reveals that it’s not the regular love triangle story but a different love story with realistic action scenes.
But, who’ll do the kissing scene is what is perking audience interest. However, to find the answer for that, we’ll have to wait just a little bit!
June 9,2009
HAPPENIN ’ CITY

Retro flavour rekindled
SINDHU VIJAYAKUMAR

Mohammed Rafi might be no more, but the legend continues to live on through his music. And to capture the essence of his music,three popular singers —Mohammed Aslam, Anil Bajpai and Anu Radha will perform at Relive — Md Rafi A’s concert at The Music Academy today at 6 pm. The group will enthral the audience with 32 all-time hits of Rafi. Accompanied by an orchestra from Kerala, it will be an evening of non-stop entertainment.
Anil Bajpai, the singing sensation from Mumbai and a devout follower of Rafi, prefers to restrict himself to singing Rafi’s songs.
His mellifluous voice, blend of emotions and melody are sure to recreate magic.
Mohammed Aslam, back after a live performance with AR Rahman, considers Rafi an institution and feels that it’s a rare opportunity to sing his songs.
If you are a fan of Rafi saab and want to soak in melodious numbers like Oh Duniya Ke Rakhwale or Jo Waada Kiya Woh Nibhana Padega,
don’t give this a miss.
June 6,2009
MISTRESS OF MIST
SINDHU VIJAYAKUMAR

One of the most charming hill stations in India, Kodaikanal, stands amidst the sylvan beauty on the southern crest of the upper Palani Hills. Known as the princess of hills, this tourist spot mesmerises visitors with its picturesque beauty, misty hills, occasional spells of rain, meadows golf courses and the famous lake.
While the vehicle navigates the hairpin bends, one can witness the magnificent beauty of tall pine trees, tea estates and also the silvery waterfalls that cascade down the hills.
Once you reach the town, you have many options when it comes to accommodation. Cheap, affordable and comfortable lodges and guesthouses are easy to find at Kodai. However, if you plan to make a trip during the peak tourist season, it’s advisable to make advance reservations.
The main attraction is the Kodai Lake, which has a boating facility. An evening visit to the lake is sure to soothe your tired souls. Once tired of the water, get set for a bicycle ride around the lake breathing in the fresh air scented with the aroma of flowers. While cycling, it’s unlikely that you will miss the variety of products that are sold along the way. Ranging from sweaters to caps and honey to eucalyptus oil, you have many locally made goods that are cheap and worth a try.
However, it is the journey to the Berijam Lake, tucked inside the deep forests that will keep your
adrenaline rushing. Before entering, permission has to be availed from the forest department. The way to Berijam Lake is an excellent trekking route. Walking down the slopes between the stretches of gigantic trees, the hike is thrilling. However, one has to be careful as the forest is home to wild animals like bisons and leopards. Far away from the noisy cities, all that you can hear are the chirping of birds and trumpeting of wild elephants. You are sure to get lost in the charm of wilderness.
If you are lucky you may even get the rare opportunity to spot a herd
of elephants drinking water
from the lake too. On
your way back,
d o n’ t forget to pay a visit to the herbal garden, which will revitalise your nerves with the invigorating smell of herbs.
If you like long walks, then Coker’s Walk is the ideal getaway. On the long winding route, if you are fortunate, you may get to see the famous kurinji flowers (this species blooms once in 12 years).
How can a visit to Kodai be complete without visiting the Guna Caves? Yes, it’s here that the movie Guna was filmed. The caves are now a tourist attraction. While capturing a clear view of the location, the romantic scene in which Kamal wrote Kanmani anpodu kathalan…is sure to flash across your mind.
The list of exciting places does not stop here. The evergreen romantic location in many films — the pine forests, will not fail to arouse the ‘romantic’ in you. And what better way to spend a weekend, than to hold hands, the smell of pinewood in the air, getting lost in the mist, and playing hide and seek. Occasional showers add romance to the place. No wonder Kodaikanal is compared to a woman who allures with her magnificence and mesmerises with her myriad moods.

How to get there:

Kodai is located 235 km from Madurai, 195 km from Trichy and the Coimbatore airport is 170 km away.
One can travel by train till the Kodai Road station which is 80 km from the town. The remaining part of the journey has to be travelled by road.
Kodaikanal is connected by road to all important towns. Regular bus services are available from Kodaikanal to Madurai, Palani, Kodai Road, Theni, Dindigul, Thiruchirappalli, Kumuli, Bangalore, Coimbatore and Chennai.

TRAVEL TIPS

• Don’t forget to take your sweater, shawl, socks and umbrella. The climate is chilly and showers are common. Carry sports shoes if you plan to go trekking.

• A pair of binoculars and a good camera to capture those special moments.

• It’s a good idea to take along ear plugs too.
June 5,2009
The theatre effect
TV Varadarajan will be conferred with the Nataka Mudhra Award today

SINDHU VIJAYAKUMAR

TV Varadarajan needs no introduction. From being a bank employee to television anchor to newsreader to film actor, the man has many facets. His United Visuals has been entertaining the audience with thought provoking plays. What’s Hot caught up with the actor for a one-on-one.

• With many sabhas willing to organise drama festivals, is there a revival happening in the theatre scene?
Yes, for the last three years, many sabhas are hosting festivals and I should say that it has infused energy into the otherwise dull theatre arena.

• K Balachander (KB) recently came back to the atre with his play Pournami. Does it make any difference to theatre buffs?
KB’s Pournami has instilled a lot of energy and enthusiasm not only in the minds of audience but also among theatre groups. Many idle troupes have woken up and started working seriously on their projects. This is a positive sign. Besides, a large number of those who didn’t have the opportunity to work with KB in dramas earlier, have now been able to learn from his working style.

• Tell us about your association with KB?
It was KB who identified and brought my acting potential to the fore. Our association dates back to my acting in his serial Kai Alavu Manasu. So far, I have acted in all his serials.

• Today, most theatre groups focus on comedy. How about your plays?
I was born in a middle-class family and so, I have always had a passion to take up themes that affect families like mine. There cannot be any plays without humour. But we do not have any separate comedy track. Our plays have in-built humour and we deal with contemporary themes.

• How do you select the themes?
Often, subjects that are in the news such as problems associated with credit cards, real estate issues, or television serials affecting family relationships are chosen. Though we make a drama for the audience here, it applies to everyone as they can relate to it.

• You have acted in films, serials and in dramas. Which among these is your favourite?
Needless to say, it is drama. Nothing can give you the satisfaction that a stage and live audience can give you. I’ve made it a point not to take any other commitments on dates when I have a booking for drama.

• You are so passionate about theatre. What is your take on Chennai’s theatre scene?
The city has about 25 troupes. Unlike other states, artistes here do not survive on the earnings from theatre. Instead, they spend their hard earned money by producing dramas. A drama requires a lot of money and takes away quite a bit of one’s time. I have only one request, corporate companies should come forward to sponsor at least one drama troupe. That will give the theatre scene a muchneeded boost.
June 5, 2009

Storyline matters!
SINDHU VIJAYAKUMAR

Actors, actresses, directors and music directors… it was celebrities galore at the audio launch of Aarumaname, which stars debutant Deepak and Nicole in lead roles, along with two other heroines. Karthika, who recently got married, is also doing a meaty role. Setting tunes for the movie (and the evening!) was Srikanth Deva, the son of renowned composer Deva. Actor Sriman, who is also playing a role in the film, heaped praises on the Aarumaname team. For Rajesh, another actor in the film, it was the fact that they worked like a family that worked in favour of the team.
Films that have a strong storyline seem to have made the cut in Kollywood in recent times. Debutant director Sudheesh Sankar is a person who firmly believes that and he’s made sure his film has been shaped in a similar fashion. “I was inspired by Cheran’s Auograph and Ameer’s Paruthiveeran,” he said.
June 3, 2009
Bullies beware!
The UGC has proposed to start an anti-ragging helpline to counter the menace of ragging. Chennai Timesdoes a reality check and finds that Chennaiites feel that it will make a difference …

SINDHU VIJAYAKUMAR Times News Network

Finally, here’s some good news to all those kiddos (and their anxious parents) who will now take their first step into the adult world. With the new academic year about to start, the University Grants Commission’s (UGC) is all set to launch a toll-free anti-ragging helpline from June 15 in an effort to curb ragging.
R Ravi, an engineering aspirant says that this announcement has brought some relief in the minds of students like him. Even third-year medical student K Raj Kumaran, who feels that that ragging has taken a wild turn of late, is all for it. “This is a pro-active step and will help students to reach out for timely help,” he opines.
Adhivarahan, psychotherapist and counselor, agrees that the toll-free number will go along way in reducing the apprehension in the minds of freshers. But, he adds that the adage, prevention is better than cure holds good for ragging too.
“Students are at a loss when they have to face certain situations unexpectedly. The educational institutions should organise counseling sessions to prepare them and encourage them to report and seek help in case of difficulties. It should be a continuous process involving a mixed forum with legal experts, educationists and psychologists in the panel,” he opines.
K S Babai, principal of a reputed engineering college, while welcoming the move, concurs that educational institutions have to play a vital role in curbing the menace. “The anti-ragging squads and strict vigilance from the lecturers and department heads have made our campus totally free from ragging,” she reveals and adds, “We also educate senior students on the consequences of ragging and make them realise the scars that it might leave on the minds of the affected.”
S Mathi, whose son is awaiting the results of the All India Engineering Entrance Examination (AIEEE), says that with the help line in force, students, who stay in campus will have better access for help in case of any untoward incident. But, she has one suggestion. “The toll-free number should be accessible from mobile phones too.”
Anita Sanal, a medico supports her and says, “In many cases, the toll-free numbers cannot be reached through mobile phones. For students, access to land line phones is very limited. Unless the help line number is accessible from all kinds of phones, it may not serve its purpose.”
But, there are senior students, like Kannan C, who think that juniors will have an upper hand from now. “The number should not be misused to settle scores. Besides, the heads of institutions should not consider this as weapon against students they dislike,” he says.
P Jayaprakash, a leading advocate says that the chances of the facility being misused are very less. As announced by UGC, the heads of institutions will have to give an action taken report (ATR), which means that the entire issue will be dealt with with seriousness.
Quoting the UGC, he says, “Under the new regulations, the UGC has come up with stricter penalties for students found involved in ragging, as well as the institutions that fail to root out this nuisance. And with this helpline, we can expect to have a refreshing change and crime free campus,” he concludes.
So, the verdict is clear. If you still think that ragging is cool and is a symbol of heroism, better be careful. You may lose your student days, career and end up a criminal.
sin d h u.vija y a k u m a r @ tim e s g r o u p.c o m
June 1, 2009