Medical/Health Website

I found this website to be useful:

http://www.medindia.net/

Take a look when you find time.

One-stop portal for apprenticeship vacancies to be unveiled - TOI

Getting apprenticeship in industries will no longer be difficult for engineering graduates, technical diploma holders and vocational stream students.

The Board of Apprenticeship Training (BOAT Southern Region), a government of India institution, is unveiling a one-stop web portal on Saturday next which will serve as a platform for sourcing apprenticeship in the right industry for students with a technical education background.

More info @ One-stop portal for apprenticeship vacancies to be unveiled

Public transportation

Today section of MTC drivers are on a strike because of the attack on one of their colleagues by group of autorickshaw drivers. I found it really tough to commute to the office after reaching Tambaram today morning. Share auto drivers demand more money due to this issue.

Article on the strike @
Flash strike by section of MTC employees

Due to the above issue, even railway counters [Electric trains] were crowded. I could see around 80 passengers standing in all the queues of the counter which normally seems is not the case.

Recently, I went to Boston and Public transport is pretty good over there with GPS system and train frequency is more and ticket counters [automated] are customer friendly. Ofcourse, few people can say that number of people using public transport in USA is less and hence they are able to maintain. But I want Indian public transit to become more customer-friendly and to be in international standard.

The Hindu : Cities / Chennai : Rally to create awareness of blood donation

The Hindu : Cities / Chennai : Rally to create awareness of blood donation

Worth of a Life

Yday I had noticed a incident of passenger illtreat by MTC. Passenger was supposedly climbing into the bus when bus started rolling and passenger fell down. Bus stopped and finally he got into. Then Passenger and Conductor had some quarrel. Don't know whose fault it was but I should say life is worth and bus drivers should understand that.
They should atleast wait for 30-40 seconds in a stop depending on the crowd. Also, passengers are to be blamed at times when they try to get into a bus which is already filled. They dont have patience to wait for the next bus.
Anyways life is pretty costly and if u lose that you cant get back.

Back from Boston & New library complex in Chennai

I am back from Boston bfr one week. It was nice stay at Boston and place is good. I did miss India and when I got to know that I should go to India earlier Labor day week, I was awaiting when Friday will come. 3 weeks stay I had learnt to cook. Back in India, I just came to new library complex [Anna Centenary library] has been setup & came through an article in "Pudhiya Thalaimurai" and got excited that the library will be first of its kind in India fully equipped with modern technologies.

Really interested to visit the library.

More info on below links:

1) Children excited about Anna Centenary Library on day one

2) Anna library to house more than a million books

Address of Library:
Anna Centenary Library, Surya Nagar, Kottur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600085

In Boston

Have come to Boston on a short visit [40 days] on Aug 21. Its been a week now here and quite enjoyed the weather here during first 4 days. It was raining all the day continuously for 4 days. Now the temperature is normal from 25 degree celsius to 33 degree celsius. Went to Walmart and an Indian grocery store last Saturday [alone :)] and bought some groceries and food stuffs. As I dont have any neither friends nor colleagues here, don't find ways to roam around.

Infrastructure, Transportation & in few other terms USA is better than India is a fact that has to be accepted. But, there is something missing here. Not able to express that, but I am missing my lovely India and Chennai too. Will come to Chennai by the start of october. Will post things that are happening here.

In search of Humanity

I noted many a times that Senior citizens and ladies are not given proper respect in the society [especially in cities]. While I travelling in share auto long ago, old lady has been targeted by auto driver for not getting down quickly when her stop came. He shouted at her.

Today, when I was trying to get into a bus from Vijayanagar junction, bus started moving even when there were few more people needs to get into and also a old man to get down. After people shouted, bus driver stopped the bus.

These are only a few incidents which I am writing down here. But actually there are many which I witnessed. Not really sure if there is any humanity left in this world. Searching for it in this mechanical life.

Hoping for a better tomorrow.

Traffic Rules and Saving Electricity

Wanted to share 2 incidents that happened yday and today.

1) Yesterday I noticed street lights were on @ around 9 AM near Velachery Railway station. Recently there was a hike by TNEB for using electricity. In NDTV-Hindu, there was a discussion wherein a expert told that if TNEB use its power consumption efficiently, there is no need to rise the power tariff now when the common man is already suffering from the hike of fuel prices and thereby essential commodities. Request government officials take extra care in switching off lights and instruments which during day time.

2) There was a complaint that MTC drivers are not following traffic rules. NDTV-Hindu also telecasted a news before a day or two on this. Today there was one such incident near Medavakkam where a bus driver crossed the signal when it is still on. [I mean when the signal is RED]. The bus drivers should be educated in such a way they follow traffic rules because it will a bad example for general public that government staff is not following rule, why we? Hope drivers understand and act accordingly.

Engineering student devises cellphone detector - TOI

CHENNAI: K Mohan, a second year engineering student, can give prison officials a hand in battling the problem of mobile phones being smuggled into prisoners' cells. He had developed a mobile detector that can find a cell phone within a range of 5 metres, and farther when fitted with a Zigbee sensor.

More @ Engineering student devises cellphone detector

‘I-T Refund' fortnight from August 16 to 31 - The Hindu

CHENNAI: The Income Tax Department will observe the second fortnight of August 2010 as ‘I-T Refund' period to solve the long pending complaints of the salaried tax payers up to the assessment year 2008-2009, said Prema Malini Vasan, Chief Commissioner of Income Tax on Wednesday.

More @ I-T Refund fortnight from August 16 to 31

Topslip beckons trekkers - The Hindu

CHENNAI: Topslip, one of the forest areas in the State rich in bio-diversity, has thrown open its serene wooded interiors to students and tourists for a trekking experience.

More @ Topslip beckons trekkers

Google-liable-for-blogs-it-hosts? - Source - TOI

MUMBAI: Is Google India liable for criminal action when bloggers post defamatory content? Contending that the search giant can't be held responsible for defamatory blogs that the site hosts, an ex-employee of Google India has now challenged summons issued to him by a Mumbai magistrate.

More @ Google-liable-for-blogs-it-hosts

Thillalangadi - Review

Finally hit combo Jayam Raja [Remake king] and Ravi is back.

Seen "Thillalangadi" at Satyam Cinemas. Cast includes Jayam Ravi, Tamannah, Shaam, Prabhu, Suhasini, Vadivelu, Santhanam among others. Hope u all know that this is remake of Telugu hit "Kick" with RaviTeja and Ileana in the lead.

Movie was good for comic scenes. Actually, it is Vadivelu who pulls off the first half and some of the second half. Jayam Ravi doesn't fit the bill. Wonder why Jayam Raja had casted his brother for this character. I had not seen the Telugu version but I know RaviTeja's comic timing. Tamannah has nothing to do except to wear glamorous clothes & very less scenes she has to act. Shaam could have done a better job. We cant blame him, but director should take credit for the same. Prabhu and Suhasini does justice to their roles.

Santhanam, Ganja Karuppu, Manobala and even Radha Ravi does comic relief. Jayam Ravi tries his hand at comedy but really didnt succeed.

Songs "Idhayam Karaikirathe", "Sol Pechu" & "Ding Ding" were good. Especially Sol pechu was picturised nice.

I heard that Jayam Ravi had done good job in Peranmai, eventhough I didnt see the movie yet. Even in Deepavali he had spoken good Chennai Thamizh but he didnt do that here.

I am not against REMAKING films but there should a correct casting. Even Yaaradi Nee Mohini I feel doesnt have a correct protoganist.

Even making a small film does involve lot of efforts, but we cant just praise all the films which are released. Criticism is a must for good movies to come.

The Hindu : Cities / Visakhapatnam : Language gets a new face

The Hindu : Cities / Visakhapatnam : Language gets a new face

Those good old days

These days everything become online. We are doing every work by a click. It was not the case in old days. Take the case of putting the amount in bank. We need to go to the bank in person, fill the form and give them so that the money will be credited. From movie booking to getting clothes we need to go to respective locations to get them.

It is not the case nowadays. It may have its advantages - time management, less physical work, etc. But the same too has its flip side or disadvantages - Less physical work indirectly makes the physical imbalance in the body. We will not be able to get to meet different kinds of people which by itself an learning experience.

I am interested in going to banks whenever I find opportunity. I am interested in writing Letters too. Nowadays, mobiles and mails have replaced Letters, but LETTERS will actually retain the feel of the reader and sender even after if you take and read after many years. [Didnt mean that EMAILS will not serve the purpose but feel u get in LETTERS is much more good than from EMAILS].

I remember writing my last letter when I was in First year of the college. After that, I never attempted or had an opportunity because of the mobile phones in the campus.

Seen Mouna Raagam in Raj Digital Plus

Got a chance to see Mouna Raagam [Directed by ManiRatnam - Meaning Silent Symphony] in Raj Digital Plus last Saturday. How many ever times I see the movie, I will fell in love with the movie over & over again because of acting of the leading stars, screenplay, music, backgroud score, cinematography, lyrics and singers and so on.

Just read the column "Arasu Bhadilgal" in Kumudam [which is similar to HAI MADHAN of Ananda Vikatan]. This column is like questions posted by readers and Madhan and Arasu will respond to them. One of the question to Arasu was "Have u seen Raavanan?" and the reply was "Mani is trying to make out movies nowadays catering audiences across states." Last line said "Enge Mouna Raagathin Naayagan?" which translates to "Where is the hero of Mouna Raagam?" Hero here he mentions the Director of the movie. I felt it is really true.

There are many things to post lining up. Will post them one by one.

Trekking

1. Kalakkadu - Mundathurai
Location:Tirunelveli District, Tamil Nadu
Famous: Wildlife Sanctuaries And Trekking Spots
Best Time To Visit: October To JanuaryKalakkadu Wildlife Sanctuary

http://www.indiainfoweb.com/tamil-nadu/trekking/kalakkadu-mundathurai.html

2.ELAGIRI HILLS
Location: Near Chennai, In The Eastern Ghats, Tamil Nadu
Ideal: Picnic Spot
Famous For : Trekking

http://www.indiainfoweb.com/tamil-nadu/picnic-spots/elagiri-hills.html

3. Adventure Trails

http://www.travelmasti.com/domestic/tamilnadu/adventuretourism.htm

Tamilnadu Tourism

Tamilnadu Tourism Tour Packages:

http://www.ttdconline.com/onlinebooking.aspx

HOP ON HOP OFF TOUR
1, Hop on Hop off (Chennai to Mamallapuram Tour)

Sight Seeing Tour
1, 1 DAY MAMALLAPURAM TOUR(Round Trip)
2, ONE DAY PONDICHERRY TOUR
3, 4 DAYS ARUVIGAL- (FALLS) TOUR
4, ONE DAY CHENNAI CITY SIGHT SEEING TOUR

Pilgrimage Package Tour
1, 1 DAY TIRUPATHI TOUR
2, 1 DAY GIRIVALAM - (TIRUVANNAMALAI) TOUR
3, 3 DAYS NAVAGRAHA TOUR (Nine Planets)
4, 4 DAYS ARUPADAI VEEDU TOUR (LORD MURUGA ABODE TOUR)
5, 5 DAYS PANDIYANATTU THIRUPATHIGAL TOUR (Vaishnava Temples)
6, 1 DAY SRIPURAM GOLDEN TEMPLE TOUR
7, 3 DAYS THIRUMANA THIRUTHALA SUTTRULA TOUR
8, SANEESWAR BHAGWAN-THIRUARIKUPPAM SATURN TOUR

Sight seeing and Pilgrimage Package Tours
1, 7 DAYS MOOKAMBIKA TOUR
2, 8 DAYS GOA - MANTRALAYAM TOUR
3, 8 DAYS EAST WEST COAST TOUR
4, 8 DAYS TAMILNADU TOUR
5, 14 DAYS SUNNY SOUTH TOUR
6, 6 DAYS SOUTH INDIA TOUR

Summer Special Tour
1, 3 Days Chennai-Ooty-Tour
2, 3 Days Chennai-Kodaikanal Tour
3, 3 Days Yercaud -Hogenakal Tour
4, 3 Days Chennai-Mysore Tour
5, 3 Days Munnar Tour
6, 3 Days Courtallam Tour

TREKKING TOURS
1, 4 DAYS TOUR -TREKKING TO PARAMIKULAM AND TOPSLIP

TRAIN TOURS
1, 3 DAYS RAMESWARAM TOUR BY TRAIN

TN Accreditation Council all set to be launched - TOI

A state level accreditation council which will promote academic audit and accreditation of all arts and science colleges in Tamil Nadu will begin functioning later this month.

"The council will ensure that all the colleges, after being accredited, establish internal quality assurance cells so that there is quality sustenance and enhancement in our higher education system. Tamil Nadu will be the first in the country to have such a state level accreditation agency," professor Thyagarajan told The Times of India on Wednesday.

More info @ TN Accreditation Council all set to be launched

TN to mark 250th anniv of Battle of Vandavasi in Tiruvannamalai District - TOI

Tiruvannamalai: Tamil Nadu is all set to showcase its colonial past and historic battles fought between the British and French armies in this part of the country in a bid to attract foreign and domestic tourists.
The government has proposed to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Vandavasi fought fiercely between the British and French in 1761.
The Tiruvannamalai district administration has chalked out grand plans to host an exhibition, displaying the armouries, cannons, cannon balls and weapons used by the British and French armies during the decisive battle that lasted nearly a year and saw the 1,700-strong British army drive out the 2,000-odd French soldiers. The British army, led by Sir Eyre Coote, defeated the Count de Lally’s French army in the Battle of Vandavasi. The French army was restricted to Pondicherry and they finally gave up in 1761. The battle, referred to as the Third Carnatic War between the British and French, enabled the former to establish their supremacy among the other Europeans.
The Tiruvannamalai district administration, which had earlier proposed to renovate the 16th century Vandavasi fort, has dropped the plan. As part of the anniversary celebrations, a symposium will also be organised and experts invited to present papers on the colonial past of the historic district.
The exhibition will also include rare photographs and ancient artefacts specific to this region. District collector Dr M Rajendran told The Times of India that the government gave its nod after the administration submitted a proposal to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the battle.
“The anniversary celebration must not be misconstrued as an occasion to glorify the British. Our main objective is to enlighten the general public on rich heritage of the district. The event will also boost the inflow of foreign and domestic tourists into the district,” Rajendran said.
The administration proposes to acquire armoury from private antique collectors and government museums in Chennai and other parts of the state.
Rajendran pointed out that Chetpet, about 15 km from Vandavasi, was the district headquarters during the British rule and Chittoor in AP and other important towns in the present-day Vellore came under the administrative control of Chetpet. The British developed Chetpet and made it their district headquarters in 1801. Chetpet remained as the centre for development activities for the next 30 years,” he said.
Rajendran expressed optimism that the celebrations would bring under the spotlight the facts, the early trade and battles of struggle among the imperialistic forces.

English Supremacy

The British army, led by Sir Eyre Coote, defeated the Count de Lally’s French army in the Battle of Vandavasi. The French Army was restricted to Pondicherry and it finally gave up in 1761. The battle was referred to as the Third Carnatic War between the British and French armies
Tiruvannamalai district administration, which had earlier proposed to renovate the 16th century Vandavasi fort, has dropped the plan
The district collector says the anniversary celebration must not be misconstrued as an occasion to glorify the British. The objective is to enlighten the public on rich heritage of the district and the event will also boost the inflow of tourists, he says

Vaanam - Remake of Vedham [Telugu] - Simbu's New Movie

Simbu after doing a breezy Vinnaithandhi Varuvaya [VTV] is going to do a remake of Telugu Blockbuster Vedham. I had not seen VTV till now and eager to watch that.

Titled Vaanam in Tamil, it is planned to release on Diwali. Movie to be directed by Krish [Same director of original movie] is touted to be containing five stories interwoven and they finally coincides in the climax. Along with Simbu, Anuskha, Manoj Manchu and Lekha Washington will be acting in the movie. Simbu is replacing Allu Arjun while other actors already played their characters in the original.

The director earlier had made Gamyam [which was later remade in Tamil as Kadhalna Summa Illa]. Gamyam is hit in AP while its Tamil version didnt fare well at the box office.

Eager to watch Vaanam and of course VTV as Simbu had changed his normal masala type of movies and switched to a breezy entertainer in VTV.

Profession

There are news every year atleast for the past one decade that Engineering is the most preferred stream by Parents especially. They are in the image that if his son gets a good seat he will get a better job [may be in IT industry or similar to that]. Other professions like normal arts degree and some other fresh degree [like catering, Viscom, professions related to film industry [sound engineering, art direction, cinematography, etc] are not well received by parents of towns other than cities like Chennai and Coimbatore where good exposure is there.

Parents should give choice to their children in choosing their career. Also, government should take steps in popularizing courses other than Engg stream. I am not blaming Engg, but if everyone goes into that stream who will take care of agriculture and others.

My personal favourites in the profession or those profession which I wanted to be a part of but didnt happen are given below:
1) Doctor
2) Journalist
3) Teaching
4) IAS - UPSC

Follow Traffic rules - Avoid accidents

Seen a deadly accident today morning near Pallikaranai Govt. school. Body of the dead was covered. I dont want to imagine how deadly the accident would be.

Just wanted to share that TN leads in the number of accidents occurring in India. This could be reduced only if
1) Individuals take responsibility in following traffic rules. Individuals I mean include general public, traffic inspectors and others who are part of transportation system.
2) Wearing helmet.
3) Avoid drunk and drive.

Hoping to have a better India without accidents.

Eager to watch Madarasapattinam

Madarasapattinam which is going to release on July 9th, 2010 is set on 1940s shows Madras [the Then 'Chennai']. Eager to watch the movie.

Raavanan parvayil Ramayanam / Raavanan is the HERO - Raman?

Watched Raavanan in my hometown last week with my parent. It was after 'Kandaen Kadhalai', I am watching a movie in my hometown. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Story was on the lines of Epic Ramayana, but there were minor differences. Will talk that at the end of the post.

Story - Brief:
To avenge the death of his sister [Priyamani as Soorpanaga], Veera [Raavanan] kidnaps Ragini [Sita - Wife of Dev (Raman)]. Veera is shown as the lord among tribals, but anti social in front of the Govt. During the course, Veera develops love towards Ragini because of her beauty and courage she shows before him. Ragini develops sympathy after hearing his story. After few clashes, between police and Veera, Veera lets Ragini go. Dev enroute to their hometown, accuses Ragini of infidelity and it is Veera who told so. Ragini goes to Veera and asks Veera why he told that there is a relationship between her and him, Veera tells he never told. Dev follows Ragini and finds Veera. Veera comes to know it is the trick played by Dev. Veera dies as the police force shoots him.

Cinematography by Santhosh Sivan and Manigandan was extra ordinary. Camera captures the liveliness of the forest. Music and background score were awesome. Lyrics used were sophisticated yet simple. Dialogues by Suhasini were sharp at places and not upto the mark at places. Songs 'Usure poghudhey' and 'Kodu potta' were picturised good.

Acting - Vikram and Aishwarya Rai [Dubbing by herself and Rohini at few places] scores, while Prithviraj tries to put his full effort, but characterisation makes his efforts weaker. Reason: Prithviraj playing Dev [Raman] is shown with shades of grey, that he follows Ragini [Sita] to find whereabouts of Veera [Raavanan].

Supporting cast like Karthik, Prabhu, Priyamani and Munna try to give justice to their roles.

Film is technically sound, but lacks screenplay. Ofcourse, it doesn't remind you of a Maniratnam film at places.

Climax could have been better if Ragini leaves Dev as he accuses her infidelity. Also, Raman's character wasn't good as he try to find Raavanan through his wife. The climax was there as Director wants to show Raavan as the hero rather than Ram.

Differences:
1) Epic: Raavanan falls for Sita and kidnaps.
Movie: Veera [Raavanan] kidnaps and falls for Ragini[Sita].

2) Epic: Rama with the help of squirrel and Hanuman finds Raavanan and defeats him.
Movie: Dev [Rama] finds Veera through Ragini.

3) Epic: Sita hates Raavanan and never develops sympathy.
Movie: Ragini develops sympathy on Veera after hearing story of his sister and why he kidnapped him.

Metro Map - Spots where the Metro Rail stations will be located - TOI

Koyambedu: Near Koyambedu vegetable market on Tiruvalluvar street

CMBT: Inside the mofussil bus terminus campus

Arumbakkam: Near Aiswarya Mahal on 100 Feet Road

Vadapalani: Near SRM complex on 100 Feet Road

Ashok Nagar/KK Nagar: Opposite Udhayam theatre

SIDCO: Opposite Central Institute of Plastics Engineering & Technology (CIPET)

Alandur: Near Kathipara flyover

Officers Training Academy: Opposite the main entrance of OTA on GST Road

Little Mount: Near Temple Steps on Anna Salai

Guindy: Opposite Guindy suburban railway station

IIT Madras’ social networking site for engg students - TOI Article

Chennai: A social-networking portal created by alumni of IIT-M, IIT Kharagpur and IIT Delhi for engineering students has grown from an ambitious startup to a popular tool that helps and guides students in engineering education, according to a press release from IIT.
Btechguru.com is a free online portal that was incubated in the department of management studies of IIT Madras and consists of free and open source content and also provides students an opportunity to collaborate with their peers through blogs, bookmarks and videos. Several students have benefited from the portal, as it contains links to open courseware of different universities, a huge collection of free e-books for engineering and competitive examinations, interview tips and information about civil services.
Btechguru also provides formats and samples of Bank statement copies, statement for purpose for all engineering branches, recommendation letter and other legal documents which are essentials for higher studies abroad.

Corporation offers Rs 5/kg for recyclable waste - Source TOI

Are you staying in any one of the six zones where Chennai Corporation does conservancy operations? Then think twice before dumping recyclable waste into the street bins. Conservancy staff of the corporation will soon knock on your door with a weighing balance to collect recyclable waste. And you get paid Rs 5 per kg for paper, plastic and other recyclable stuff.

More info @ Corp offers Rs.5/kg for recyclable waste

Places in & around ECR

You can refer below link for the places in ECR:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/East_Coast_Road
http://smartlearningcurve.blogspot.com/2010/06/ecr-mahabhalipuram.html

Chandra, you can refer above link. Thought of commenting to your post, but couldnt do so because I am not able to see the text box while clicking the comments hyperlink.

Two Anna Univs, unitary & affiliating type, from now

Chennai: With the state government appointing a vice chancellor for a new Anna University of Technology (AUT) in Chennai, the existing 32-yearold Anna University is set to revert as a unitary-type university, a status which it had enjoyed until nine years ago. Evidently such a transition has its pros and cons.

“The reversion as a unitary university will make a positive difference. Professors will be able to dedicate more time towards developing their departments and concentrate on industrial consultancy and research. It gives us a sense of relief,” acknowledged a senior professor.

“But the larger issue is funding. As a unitary university, we used to struggle to foot the monthly salary bills of Rs 20 crore. The government takes its own time to reimburse the salary bill forcing us to make internal financial adjustments. Whereas, in an affiliating university huge money comes from affiliation and examination fee,” observed a former administrator.

For the time being the monetary commitment can be handled since the existing second, third and final year students of the affiliated colleges will continue to be a part of the present Anna University. “The crisis will begin two years later when the university will be hard-pressed to raise enough money through research and industrial consultancy for meeting contingent recurring expenditure,” he added.

A section of senior professors who had donned administrative responsibilities over the past nine years are understandably upset.

“Losing control of the affiliated colleges is an emotional moment. In December 2001, when we were given control of over 220 self-financing engineering colleges across Tamil Nadu, it was challenging. The regional universities like University of Madras were handling the affiliation process although they did not have a true understanding of technical knowledge of the subject, emerging areas and courses. We assumed responsibility, set high standards in technical education and created a model for others to follow. Today, we are being asked to leave what we had nurtured,” said a professor.

From 1978 to December 2001, the Anna University had functioned as a premier institution with the College of Engineering, A C College of Technology and School of Architecture and Planning in Guindy and the Madras Institute of Technology in Chromepet as its departments.

Since late 2001, the university has enjoyed powers to affiliate engineering colleges. On a recommendation from eminent academicians M Anandakrishnan and V C Kulandaisamy, both former vice chancellors of the university, the government last year agreed to restore its unitary status.

The new AUT will now take up the responsibility of dealing with over 150 affiliated colleges in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram and other parts of north Tamil Nadu.



ROLE REVERSAL:

Anna varsity established in 1978 as unitary institution.

Converted into affiliating university in 2001.

In 2009 it was decided to create a new Anna University of Technology.

The new university will handle affiliation of engg colleges.

Anna varsity professors will not concentrate on research/consultancy.

Existing 2nd, 3rd and 4th year students will remain with Anna University.

Only fresher students will come under AUT control in 2010-11.

Source: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/5951352.cms

Places to roam around in Chennai

Hello Friends! Any suggestions for good places to roam around in Chennai?
Let me give you a list of the places that I have been to - Spencer's plaza, which I feel now is a commonplace and I would say City Center is a much better place to loiter. Mayajaal in ECR road, a good choice for watching movies after Inox and Sathyam, and if a couple of hours are left for the movie - there is bowling,  shopping stalls and for people with affinity towards alcohol there is resto bar with lots of TV screens. MGM again in  ECR road  has got water themes and I loved it -  it's much better maintained than golden beach. Bela Ciao, the best ambiance I've seen in Chennai- located near Thiruvanmiyur Beach, owned by an Italian, one can enjoy authentic Italian dish. The place is a little expensive and best suited for couples. Besant Nagar Beach (Elliot's Beach), one of the best beaches in Chennai - can see children skating around during sundays, the straight pavement in there is clean and excellent for morning or an evening walk. That's it I can't spare more time :) thinking about more places that I've visited. So Junta, do tell me what more exciting places can be dwelled in Chennai?

House Rent Allowance

How to Calculate the Income Tax Exemption on House Rent Allowance (HRA)?

If you happen to be a salaried employee claiming House Rent Allowance (HRA) from your employer, you are eligible for an Income Tax exemption under Section 10(13A) of the Income Tax Act. How do you calculate this exemption amount? Simple.

Find the minimum of the following three options:

1. Actual house rent allowance received from your employer.
2. Actual house rent paid by you minus 10% of your basic salary.
3. 50% of your basic salary if you live in a metro or 40% of your basic salary if you live in a non-metro.

This minimum figure is the allowed income tax exemption on house rent allowance. It’s prudent to work this out so that you can structure the other components of your variable pay better.

Have you ever looked close at the statement of tax generated each month (along with your salary slip) by your employer? Do you understand where your money is going? If no, it’s high time you did.

Tips to fight dehydration - Source TOI

To combat dehydration non-alcoholic drinks may be given in plenty. Coconut water, barley water, sugarcane juice or glucose-water are the best. — www.pragyatv.com

Dehydration is common in summer. It simply means shortage of water in the body. Every cell in your body needs water in order to function properly. An adult's body weight is 60 per cent water, while an infant's is up to 80 per cent water.

Causes

Insufficient liquid intake - Excessive loss of liquids due to diarrhoea, sunstroke or vomiting.

Symptoms

Furious thirst. Loss of elasticity of skin and wrinkling. Diminished muscular endurance Dizziness, nausea Drowsiness, headache Tachycardia (galloping heart rate) Increased body temperature Extreme exhaustion

Tips to combat

Non-alcoholic drinks may be given in plenty. Coconut water, barley water, sugarcane juice or glucose-water are the best. A pinch each of sugar and salt in a cup of water. Water flushes wastes from the body through urine. Take Nimbupani during prolonged exercise. Bel, Sauf water, Aam Ka Pana, Khas Khas Sharbat help curb appetite. Plump up wrinkles with frequent fluid and seasonal vegetable.
Watermelon, sweet melon quench thirst.
Bananas are recommended for water and potassium depletion.
Chamomile tea has the added benefit of being a natural pain reliever so it helps relieve the stomach cramps that often accompany dehydration.
Decaffeinated teas are also excellent.

Warning

In severe cases of dehydration, intravenous fluids are essential, and immediate hospitalization is a must.

Health tips:

Bring 2 cups of water to boil for 2-4 minutes in a stainless steel pan (do not use aluminium)and put it aside. Then add ½ tsp of whole coriander seeds, 1/2 tsp, whole fennel (saunf) , two 1 inch slices of fresh ginger root and let it soak. After 10 minutes strain out the spices and pour the water into a thermos flask. Sip throughout the day for quenching your thirst.

Eager to watch Raavanan & Raavan

The D-day had arrived. Raavanan & Raavan is releasing across the world today. The dubbed version of the film in Telugu as Villain is also hitting the theatres.

I am very much eager to watch this ManiRatnam multi starrer movie for visuals and the music. I would like to watch the movie both in Tamil & Hindi versions.

Rating of the movie - 3.5/5 - Source - TOI

Visit for the review @ http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/movie-reviews/hindi/Raavan/moviereview/6058139.cms

Govt drops plan to tax PF withdrawals - Source - TOI

In a major relief to the middle class, the government on Tuesday proposed to drop its earlier suggestions of taxing withdrawals from provident funds, pension funds and pure life insurance schemes and of imposing tax on retirement and in-service perks given by employers.

DTC[Direct Tax Code] Gets Less Taxing

Change: Provident fund, pension funds, life insurance to continue under EEE (exemptexempt-exempt) system instead of EET (exempt-exempt-taxation)
Implication: Withdrawals from these schemes will remain tax-exempt as at present. Earlier draft of Direct Tax Code (DTC) had proposed to tax them
C: Interest payments on home loans up to Rs 1.5 lakh per annum to be tax-exempt for self-occupied homes
I: Concession that earlier draft had proposed to remove will continue to be available
C: Long-term capital gains to be imposed on graded basis
I: Currently, zero tax on such gains. Earlier draft had proposed to add the gains fully to income. Revisions means only a part of the gains will be added, depending on how long the asset has been held
C: Employer’s contribution to retirement benefits to be tax-exempt
I: Earlier draft would have added these as perks to your income and hence raised tax liability. That won’t happen now
C: MAT to be on book profits
I: Earlier draft proposed minimum alternate tax (MAT) on basis of company’s gross assets, meaning even loss-making firms may have had to pay the tax. That won’t happen now.

More information @ http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Govt-drops-plan-to-tax-PF-pension-funds-withdrawals/articleshow/6052092.cms

Source - TOI

TN explores 'dual degree in 3 yrs' for Arts & Science courses - Source TOI

TN govt set up a committee to look the feasibility of dual degree in undergraduate courses in ARTS & Science colleges.

*** Students may get two degrees in three years by simultaneously pursuing dual undergraduate courses in arts and science colleges.
*** The concept would not only enhance their employability potential but also widen the choice for postgraduate education.
*** A five-member high level panel of academics has been constituted to study in-depth the concept.

More info on http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/TN-explores-dual-degree-in-3-yrs-concept/articleshow/6048733.cms

Source - Times of India

ECR & Mahabhalipuram

Went to following places in ECR and Mahabhalipuram yesterday with parents and relatives.
1) Prathyangira Devi Temple, Shollinganallur:
Details @ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sholinganallur_Prathyangira_Devi_Temple,

2) DakshinaChitra - http://www.dakshinachitra.net/
Ticket cost was Rs.75 per person, but it was worth giving. This contains cultural things [be it old houses, crafts] related to South India. We can get down @ MGM Dizzee world Bus stop and DakshinaChitra is 300 metres away from there.

3) Muttukadu Boat House

4) Kovalam Beach

5) Mahabhalipuram - Sea shore temple, Scluptures made of single stone like five rathas, elephant, etc.

Only thing which was not good was the weather. Day before yesterday the weather was good but yesterday it was too hot that roaming around these places was difficult one.

Bhopal Gas Tragedy Verdict

Climate in Chennai for the past one week is pretty good. Its been cloudy and raining. Request Varuna Bhagavan to be there for few more days in Chennai:-). And verdict in Bhopal tragedy is shocking. Just 2 years of imprisonment for killing more than 20000 people and making above 6 lakhs [still counting - the aftermath of effect is still there] people life miserable wasn't really an appreciable verdict. These kind of incidents make me feel if there is really a person called God. But on the other hand, my mind is telling "If you believe in something, believe truly". That tend me to believe God is there. I truly believe in Him. I do hope maximum punishment to those involved in the tragedy will happen soon. Hoping for a better future.

Puzzle Corner

2010-06-12
When 2^301 is divided by 5, the least positive remainder is ......
1. 4
2. 8
3. 2
4. 6

2010-06-10
The equation X-[2/(X-1)] = 1-[2/(X-1)] has
1. no roots
2. one root
3. two equal roots
4. infinite roots

2010-06-09
If (1+3+5+...+p)+(1+3+5+...+q) = (1+3+5+...+r), where each set of parentheses contains the sum of consecutive odd integers as shown, what is the smallest possible value of (p+q+r), where p>6?
(a) 12
(b) 21
(c) 45
(d) 54

Paa - Seen on Star Gold

Got a chance to see 'Paa' movie on Star Gold. Eventhough not able to see the whole movie because of power cut, I enjoyed the portions seen. It is about a rare genetic disease 'Progeria' and father - son relationship. Amitabh plays the kid with Progeria and Abhishek his father. Vidya Balan as mother of Amitabh. Story is all about how Amitabh unites Vidya and Abhishek together as they got separated as Abhishek wanted her to have an abortion when they first found out she was pregnant. After uniting them, at 13th birthday Amitabh dies due to Progeria.

I dont know Hindi, but I quiet enjoyed the movie because a meaningful cinema doesnt need language to understand. Its all about human emotions.

Music by Ilayaraja and he had remixed 2 of his earlier songs. Director of Photography is P C Sriram.

You can see more details about the movie at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paa_(film)

Singam - Want to see one more time

Here I come with "Singam" Review. I watched the movie @ Bangalore in a local theatre. Though the film was commercial masala flick, I enjoyed it. Its been long since I had seen a Tamil movie [for that case a movie in theater].

Now, coming to Singam, cast includes Surya, Anushka, Prakashraj, Vivek, Radha Ravi, Sumithra, Nasser, Vijayakumar, Manorama, Bose Venkat & others. Except for Surya & Prakashraj, no other roles are well crafted eventhough other supporting cast just supports the story. Even Surya and PrakashRaj's roles are having only shades of normal Tamil Hero and Villain, but it is that both of them pull off their roles very well.

I dont want to go much into Story. Its a normal hero and villain story and finally good wins over the bad. But the screenplay makes it watchable. Director Hari is known for his commercial flicks like Sami, Aaru, Vel, Kovil, etc. where the story wont be much new but screenplay does the trick. Ofcourse, there are logical loopholes in Singam but you cant see logics in a masala movie.

There is a ensemble cast as I already mentioned and their screen presence does help the film and screen presence is complete.

Vivek does a comic relief and few scenes of him come out really well.

Music is by Devi Sri Prasad and most of the songs are fine. Especially the melodious 'En Idhayam', rocking 'Stole my heart' and 'Kadhal Vandhale' [which starts with Everybody listen samba pamba rumba thumba].

Action sequences were more heroic [nothing can be expected because its a commercial movie]

I dont have much knowledge on other departments of the film like Cinematography, editing, etc.

As always, heroines doesnt have a role in these kind of movies. What surprised me was "Bose Venkat" who is well known for his acting, does nothing or not having substantial role here.

Singam was released by BIG Pictures and Sun Pictures.

Having said all this, I am eager to watch the movie once again.

Went to few temples last week

I went to Sripuram Golden Temple [near Vellore], Kanipakkam and Srikalahasti [both near Tirupati - After a long time I am into AP :)].

Sripuram is famous for its golden temple. God here is Narayani. God @ Kanipakkam is Vinayaka or Pillaiyar. Srikalahasti's God is Sivan and Parvathi.

More info about those temples can be found @ www.sripuram.org, http://www.kanipakamvinayaka.org/, http://www.srikalahasti.org/

Data Structure Questions

1) What is the data structures used to perform recursion?

2) List out the areas in which data structures are applied extensively?

3) StackLinkedList class inherits the LinkedList class. Is it True?

4) Name two desirable properties of hashing functions.

5) Linked list C++ application is organized into three files.They are _____, ______ and _____

6) What is the minimum no.of queues required to implement heap sort? Explain.

7) The depth of a tree is the _______ of a tree

Violation of Norms

Yesterday when I was travelling in MTC bus from Velachery to Medavakkam, few college students [not really sure which college they belong to] got into bus @ Vijayanagar junction. They were standing on the steps [as most youngsters do] and start hitting the inner roof along with a song. It was really irritating for the passengers but no one turned out to tell them to stop. I being one among feeling guilty [Eventhough I feel some authoritative power should be there, I also has to accept the fact that its every citizen's responsibility to fight to get their rights]. Bus Driver told them to stop twice but none of the college guys listened. He stopped the bus at Madipakkam signal and went for calling Traffic inspector. As always, before the Traffic police came students went on to catch the next bus.

And they again got into the bus when the bus neared Narayanapuram stop. This time again they started doing the same and were challenging driver that no traffic police will come for the rescue.

I wonder who had given right to them to enjoy at the cost other's precious time. Who had given such over courage not follow norms when one should follow it in public. Main victims are Bus drivers and passengers.

I would suggest bus drivers should be given a toll free number of the traffic police with which they can contact and take immediate action.

Good news for Salary and savings account holders

Banks to calculate interest rates on a daily basis for savings and salary accounts:

Salary and savings account holders could witness their interest income rise by 25 per cent under the new daily average method proposed by the Reserve Bank of India for computation of interest on savings accounts, according to rating agency Crisil.

New RBI rule:
According to the new RBI rule from April 1, banks will compute the annual 3.5 per cent interest rate on savings accounts on a daily basis instead of taking the lowest deposit during a month.

Crisil said the new method of interest computation will increase the effective interest rate on savings balances, particularly for salary account holders. “It is estimated that for a salary account holder with a minimum savings balance between 1-2 times of the monthly salary, the increase in interest income will be between 10 and 25 per cent,'' it said.

More news on this can be found @ "http://beta.thehindu.com/business/Industry/article388638.ece"

Content Copyright: - The Hindu

Request you people to put in your valuable comments on the topics posted in this blog.

Thought of Sharing

After I came to Chennai which was about 1 years 3 months back in Dec'08, I used to hear Aahaa FM's Aahaa Kaapy Klub [A programme hosted by Singer Chinmayi which concentrates on public issues]. I could say the programme is one of its kind which actually takes public issues into concern and records the voice of people on those issues.

Now I couldn't see any programme which fully concentrates on public issues. [Eventhough there are few programmes in which they discuss public issues, they are part of 3 hr or 2 hr programme itself]. Media [be it Movies, Magazines, TV Channels, FM's] has a major impact [atleast in the states of TamilNadu and Andhra & Maharashtra where the film industry is very much worshipped] on the society and it's the responsibility of media persons to make programmes which are really concerned about the social and public issues. Sadly, most of the media doesn't do that.

Hope to see a better future where more media organizations plays a major role in resolving the social and public matters.

You can go through Chinmayi's Blog which is "http://chinmayisripada.blogspot.com/". Nice to read posts over here.

Legends S.Janaki & P.Susheela on Airtel Super Singer Junior

Airtel Super Singer Junior will see a host of legends this week including S.Janaki and P.Susheela.

Dont miss it.

Happy viewing :-)

Road to Good Cinema - Title Copyright - The Hindu

The most recently released 'Angadi Theru' is gaining accolades from all quarters of society. It is both commercially successful and critically acclaimed by reviewers. The story is about the workers in Ranganathan Street [a location in Chennai which is very famous for having many commercial establishments] in TNagar.

Reviews says that the movie had taken Thamizh Cinema to international standard. The kind of movies, experimentation that is happening in Kollywood is not currently happening any other southern film industries [Tollywood, Mollywood and Sandalwood] and even in Bollywood.

After UNNAI POL ORUVAN [my first movie @ Mayajaal], I had not seen any good movie in Tamil [even though few movies came]. I am very much eager to see this one [Angadi Theru] especially because of reviews by magazines and TV.

Happy to see that Tamil Cinema is going international. Will come back with the movie review after watching.

Vijay TV's new line of Movies on Sundays

Vijay TV started telecasting small budget Tamil films which got recently released and done either average or poorly at box office on Sundays [Normally at these times the channel previously used to show dubbed English movies]. It started with the romantic comedy 'Thiru Thiru Thuru Thuru', followed by 'Kathai' [Psycho-thriller], 'Pugaipadam' [subject based on college life] and 'Renigunta'.

Yesterday only I had an opportunity to watch these new line of movies and it was 'Renigunta' which was shown yesterday. Eventhough the movie was not up to the mark because of more violence, it does have its moments. Problem is with the screenplay which doesn't engage you with the storyline as it goes.

Anyways I am happy that at least Vijay TV had started telecasting small budget films which has more value than that of Superhero films.

Observing Earth Hour at your city on: 27th March 2010, 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM Local Time

On Earth Hour this year, over a billion people from over 90 countries and 900 cities around the world will come together to call for action on climate change by doing something quite simple-turning off their lights for one hour. You can join in too!
All we have to do is ‘switch off’ the lights for just one hour on 27th March, 2010 between 8:30 PM and 9:30 PM local time to join this global movement. By doing so, we send a clear message that we are together in our fight to ensure a cleaner and more secure future for our planet.

Pledge to save the Earth. Sign up at www.earthhour.in and participate in Earth Hour 2010.

Coins - Unknown Facts

Indian Coins are mainly produced in 4 cities.
Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata & Hyderabad.

The production in each city puts an identification mark under the year of issue.
Delhi - a Dot (.)
Mumbai - a Diamond
Hyderabad - a Star(*)
Kolkata - Have no Mark under the year of issue.

Commonly used words in English

Based on the combined results of British English, American English and Australian English surveys of contemporary sources in English: newspapers, magazines, books, TV, radio and real life conversations - the language as it is written and spoken today.

Below is the list of Top 10 commonly used words:
Rank Word
1 the
2 of
3 to
4 and
5 a
6 in
7 is
8 it
9 you
10 that

You can refer to the website 'http://www.world-english.org/english500.htm' for the top 500 commonly used words.

How to Run a Meeting Like Google

No one wastes time searching for a purpose at Marissa Mayer's meetings—even five-minute gatherings must have a clear agenda

Meetings get a bad rap in business today and for good reason—very little gets accomplished in them. I can recall a Dilbert cartoon in which several people sat around a table while the meeting organizer said, "There is no specific agenda for this meeting. As usual, we'll just make unrelated emotional statements about things which bother us…"

That pretty much sums it up. The majority of meetings are unstructured, uninspiring, and unproductive. But they don't have to be that way.

When I decided to write a column about running effective meetings, I turned to a leader who holds more than anyone I know and who actually credits her meeting structure for leading to some of the most innovative advances in technology today: Marissa Mayer, Google's vice-president of search products (see BusinessWeek.com, 6/19/06, "Marissa Mayer: The Talent Scout").

Mayer holds an average of 70 meetings a week and serves as the last stop before engineers and project managers get the opportunity to pitch their ideas to Google's co-founders, Sergey Brin and Larry Page. Eight teams consisting of directors, managers, and engineers—all at various stages of product development—answer to Mayer.

In a shop like Google (GOOG), much of the work takes place in meetings, and her goal is to make sure teams have a firm mandate, strategic direction, and actionable information, while making participants feel motivated and respected. Mayer's six keys to running successful meetings follow:

1. Set a firm agenda.
Mayer requests a meeting agenda ahead of time that outlines what the participants want to discuss and the best way of using the allotted time. Agendas need to have flexibility, of course, but Mayer finds that agendas act as tools that force individuals to think about what they want to accomplish in meetings. It helps all those involved to focus on what they are really trying to achieve and how best to reach that goal.

2. Assign a note-taker.
A Google meeting features a lot of displays. On one wall, a projector displays the presentation, while right next to it, another projector shows the transcription of the meeting. (Yet another displays a 4-foot image of a ticking stopwatch.) Google executives are big believers in capturing an official set of notes, so inaccuracies and inconsistencies can be caught immediately.

Those who missed the meetings receive a copy of the notes. When people are trying to remember what decisions were made, in what direction the team is going, and what actions need to be taken, they can simply review the notes.

3. Carve out micro-meetings.
Mayer sets aside large blocks of time that she slices into smaller, self-contained gatherings on a particular subject or project. For example, during her weekly two-hour confab with the co-founders and CEO Eric Schmidt, she sets aside five- to 10-minute segments—or longer, depending on the subject—devoted to such specific areas as weekly reports on how the site is performing, new product launches, etc.

This method offers enough flexibility to modify the agenda just before the meeting, should anything pressing occur. It also instills discipline that keeps the meeting tightly focused. Mayer does the same with members of her teams who might need only five or 10 minutes of her time instead of 30 minutes—the shortest block of time her calendar permits. By setting aside micro-meetings within a larger block of time, she accomplishes more.

Mayer, who has a background in engineering and computer science, jokingly refers to micro-meetings as "reducing latency in the pipeline." That means if she has an employee with an issue that comes up Tuesday, he or she can schedule a 10-minute micro-meeting during Mayer's large time block, instead of waiting for her next 30-minute opening, which might not be available for two weeks.

4. Hold office hours.
Mayer brought this idea from her experience teaching computer science at Stanford, where she first met the two guys who would go on to revolutionize how the world gets its information. Beginning at 4 p.m., for 90 minutes a day, Mayer holds office hours.

Employees add their name to a board outside her office, and she sees them on a first-come, first-serve basis. Sometimes project managers need approval on a marketing campaign; sometimes staffers want a few minutes to pitch a design (see BusinessWeek.com, 6/30/06, "Inside Google's New-Product Process").

Says Mayer: "Many of our most technologically interesting products have shown up during office hours. Google News, Orkut [Google's social networking site], Google Reviews, and Google Desktop all showed up first in office hours." During office hours, Mayer can get through up to 15 meetings, averaging seven minutes per person.

5. Discourage politics, use data.
One of Mayer's "Nine Notions of Innovation" is "Don't politic, use data" (see BusinessWeek.com, 6/19/06, "9 Notions of Innovation").

This idea can and should apply to meetings in organizations in which people feel as though the boss will give the green light to a design created by the person he or she likes the best, showing favoritism for the individual instead of the idea.

Mayer believes this mindset can demoralize employees, so she goes out of her way to make the approval process a science. Google chooses designs on a clearly defined set of metrics and how well they perform against those metrics. Designs are chosen based on merit and evidence, not personal relationships.

Mayer discourages using the phrase "I like" in design meetings, such as "I like the way the screen looks." Instead, she encourages such comments as "The experimentation on the site shows that his design performed 10% better." This works for Google, because it builds a culture driven by customer feedback data, not the internal politics that pervade so many of today's corporations.

6. Stick to the clock.
To add a little pressure to keep meetings focused, Google gatherings often feature a giant timer on the wall, counting down the minutes left for a particular meeting or topic. It's literally a downloadable timer that runs off a computer and is projected 4 feet tall.

Imagine how chaotic it must look to outsiders when the wall shows several displays at once—the presentation, transcription, and a mega-timer! And yet, at Google, it makes sense, imposing structure amidst creative chaos. The timer exerts a subtle pressure to keep meetings running on schedule.

Mayer does have one caveat when it comes to the timer—maintain a healthy sense of humor about it. (The timer was counting down to the end of my interview with Mayer—but she turned it into a fun and friendly reminder instead of an abrupt end to our discussion.)

Please keep in mind that these meeting techniques work well for Google. They may or may not be appropriate for your place of business. But these six keys should give you some new ideas about how to transform your meetings from a waste of time to time well spent.

Source: www.businessweek.com.