VOL: 1 ISSUE 43

Alpha Times April 12, 2009

Putting Heart and Soul of your Neighbourhood
PRICE Re. ONE ONLY

Ramanavami Music festival inaugurated and upholding the worship, he added. “It is
The 54th Music managing director, The approach of the office
Festival organised in
connection with the Sri
Hindu, with Rasikas
converging in large
bearers of Sri Ram
Samaj at the function.
cultural and spiritual
traditions. He
remarkable that the
Samaj has been taking Reaches
Rama Navami celebration Inaugurating the festivel commended the office- up several social
numbers at the venue to
at the Ayodhya
Aswamedha Maha
witness the annual fare. Mr. Murali said the very
ambience of the
venue would
make people
bearers of the Samaj,
highlighting that some
octogenarian trustees
continued to serve with
youthfulness and
activities. The Indian
Bank will always be
happy to be associated
with such noble
initiatives,” he said.
55,000
come there
often. “The enthusiasm. President of the households
moment you M . S . Samaj N. Venkataraman
and secretary S. V.
every week
enter, there is a Sundararajan, Chairman
feeling of and Managing Director, Ramaswamy thanked
sanctity and a Indian Bank, said that at a the community, which
time when everyone was they said, had been To Advertise
divine aura
here,” he said. talking about global offering enormous Call
recession and slowdown support consistently.
Speaking of the
journey of the
Samaj from the
in economic growth in
India, only prayer and
The programme
has a long list of 99400
music brought peace of celebrities of carnatic
time it was
founded, he said
that it was
mind, particularly to
bankers who were prone
music peforming at the
festival and ends on
24556
April 21.
Mandapam in West
Mambalam, was
S p e a k e r s
commended the
amazing how
the truly community-
oriented institution had
to lot of stress and strain.
At the time of economic
slowdown, the only
For more details
of the programme
90947
inaugurated on Monday commitment and
April 06 by N. Murali, community-oriented grown over the years,
preserving, propagating
places that are really
crowded were places of
contact the Samaj.
-AT Team 99006
Page 2
VOL : 1 ISSUE 43 April 12, 2009
LTTE threat
The reported threat of an attack on top political
leaders, including Congress chairperson Sonia Gandhi,
by the LTTE during current electioneering cannot be
taken lightly. The militant Sri Lankan outfit facing defeat
is fighting a desperate battle for survival and could well
unleash violence within India. One can hardly ignore the
fact that it was the LTTE that had engineered the
assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.
While that had caused revulsion among the masses in
Tamil Nadu, it would be foolhardy to under-estimate the
numerically-weak but strongly-motivated pro-LTTE
forces to create trouble in a bid to find a foothold in the
state.
In Tamil Nadu, MDMK leader Vaiko has been
making no bones of his support for the LTTE and has, in
recent days, been warning the Manmohan Singh
government of dire consequences if it does not push for
an end to the Sri Lanka government’s anti-LTTE
operations. The current dispensation, the DMK, itself
had been indicted by the Jain Commission in 1997 for
supporting the LTTE and that had led to a snapping of
links between that party and the Congress. With pockets
of support still in the DMK, the LTTE could well make an
effort to penetrate the security cordon once again.
There is, therefore, cause for strict vigil
especially in all the southern states. Some newspapers
have cited intelligence reports that LTTE cadres could
loot a bank in Kerala to bolster its finances. The recent
statement by Congress leader Verappa Moily that if
LTTE chief Prabhakaran is captured by the Sri Lankan
army he ought to be handed over to India to be tried for
the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi could be an added
reason for the LTTE to strike. All in all, it’s a situation that
brooks no complacency. The security apparatus must be
in top gear to thwart the LTTE’s sinister designs.
Donations for Dormitories
The Esayanur (30 km from Kanchipuram) Sri
Venugopalaswamy Bhakta Jana Sabha Trust, which
maintains the 800 year-old Venugopalaswamy temple,
needs funds for the construction of dormitories and a
Ve d a P a t a S a l a . D o n a t i o n s C o n t a c t
9445242660/9840358204.
Annamacharya special
Amritha Vahini, a devotional music group, has
organised a series of programmes as part of the
Annamacharya Jayanthi to be observed on April 12,
between 1.45 and 9 p.m., at Sri Mahalakshmi
Mandapam, II floor of Sri Murugan Kalyana Mandapam,
25, (Old. No. 13), South Boag Road, T. Nagar. Dr. Pappu
Venugopala Rao will preside over and M. Murali (Krishna
Sweets) will be the chief guest. The event begins at 1.45
p.m. with goshti ganam, ‘Sapthagiri Sankirtanam,’ led by
Prof. S.R. Janakiraman.
Various groups will render Annamacharya kritis
from 2.50 to 6.40 p.m. followed by a felicitation
programme at 6.45 p.m. The book, titled ‘Annamacharya
Sankeerthanas’ transliterated into Tamil by R.
Srinivasan, will be released on the occasion.
Special programmes by other groups will be
showcased from 7.35 to 8.45 p.m. For details call 99403
33231/2434 3399.
Alpha Times April 12, 2009
Spiritual life and Material life
Is spiritual life the same as the material life or
are they different? What constitutes a life that dwells in
spirit and what is material life? Although Baba didn't
For the week April 12- April 18, 2009
elaborate on this topic just as He did not dissect on any
other topic at length, one encounters this discussion
frequently.
Those who have been keeping aloof will rally
It is an observation
around you. So you are in for good times on social
that the young are
grounds.
often discouraged to
pursue any spiritual
activity as it is
deemed that it is not
as much a priority as You will make new contacts with new people
earning a livelihood. and strengthen old ones. Emotional life will pick up.
Thus, spiritual Friday good day to socialise.
pursuits are often
pushed towards
latter stages of life.
To dissuade this
thought, it is said An idealistic phase soon to prove that you
that one need not mean business. For you duties come before rights.
d i ff e r e n t i a t e t h e
spiritual life from the
way we live our
everyday lives. To
Refulgent Moon is urging you take up some
this effect, it is said
challenging assignment. Don’t miss or you may regret
that one should
missing the chance.
spend whatever time he/she could in the thoughts of
Sadguru as one goes about the ordinary life. As the
distinction is blurred, the life itself becomes a
harmonious blend of the self and Sadguru. Is there
anything more?
You may have to choose between your lover
Everyone is entitled for Baba's grace. But, do and career. Proceed with patience.
all get the same benefit? Baba Himself quipped that if
every flower on the tree comes to fruition it would be a
bumper crop. But it doesn't happen. The thought that
material life and spiritual life is one in itself is a
revelation, a comforting assurance that would help one
A combustible Mercury will make you wage war
in looking at life in its perspective. Does this mean that
against rising expenditure. Social obligations will affect
the material and spiritual lives are same, meaning there
is no difference? If one were to observe carefully,
budget. Wednesday may be exorbitant.
argument that there are no differences between
spiritual and material life denotes an intelligent yet
subtle justification to the material pursuits that are
always in conflict with the search for the spirit!
Exalted Venus will make you one up on your
Spiritual or material, it is one life. Attempting to
rivals. Anyone who dares to challenges you will have to
differentiate is a futile exercise because it is neither
lick the dust. The resistance you can put up now will be
possible nor appropriate to draw the line. However, as
one progresses in the path of Sadguru, the changes in
stunning.
one's life should be evident as every interest revolves
around Sadguru; around His likes and dislikes, and
approval and disapproval. When the life is in complete
tune with Sadguru and none else, such a life is
Travel may demand your time as well your work
completely spiritual and not material. Just like one
and home affairs. Your hectic schedule will no time for
cannot travel on two horses riding in opposite
relaxing.
directions, one cannot expect to lead a material life to
its fullest fulfillment and yet accomplish the spiritual
goal. While it is not relevant to discuss the importance
of each of the functions in this context, what it takes
someone to become the Pope is different from what it Your bid to bid, shop or hunt a bargain may fail.
would take to become the President of a nation. Be attentive. You are, however, advised not to act on
your impulses.
Annadhanam donations
The Srinivasa may send in donations.
P e r u m a l Te m p l e , Demand drafts A minus point in your current solar chart is that
Nachiyarkovil, (the abode (Rs. 600 or Rs. 10,000 you unequivocally forget that your sign is famous for its
of Kal Garudar) permanent deposit) for wisdom.
Kumbakonam Circle, Ph: the Government’s
0435-2467167 is Annadhanam scheme,
promoting the may be sent to the
government sponsored secretary, Annadhanam
Annadhanam Scheme. Scheme, Srinivasa Good week for improving educational goals, for
Philonthropists and P e r u m a l Te m p l e , trainees in the travel, communication, hotel and cinema
devotees desirous of Nachiyarkovil – 612602, industries. Sportsmen can also move up with a bang.
contributing for the same Kumbakonam Circle.
Cancerians and Leos are dependable at the
time of need but avoid Taureans or Librans.
- Dr. Anuj Vikram Sharma
Visit
www.timeschennai.com
April 12, 2009
Gold coins through
post offices
In view of the
Akshaya Trithiya festival,
the Department of Posts
has decided to keep 15 of
its post offices open on
April 14 for selling gold
coins.
A press release
issued by the Chief
Postmaster General of
Tamil Nadu Circle said that
the following Head Post
Offices in city (Anna
Meet on student visas
at US consulate
The United
States-India Educational
Foundation Chennai, will
organise a presentation on
student visas on Tuesday,
April 21, at the Music
Academy. David Francis,
vice-consul, US Consulate
General, Chennai, will
provide information about
the student visa application
procedure and discuss
guidelines used in making
R o a d , T. N a g a r ,
Mylapore, Tambaram,
Ambattur, Park Town, )
and three Sub-Post
Offices (Anna Nagar,
Tiruvanmiyur and
Tiruvallikeni) will be kept
open. In a short period
from October 15, 2008 to
March 31, 2009, the
department had sold
30,277 grams of gold
coins.
student visa issuance
decisions.
Students who
are planning to pursue
undergraduate, graduate
and doctoral studies in
the United States are
encouraged to attend.
For further information,
you can contact
28574423 or email to
brindha@fulbright-
india.org.
Alpha Times Page 3
English grammar
workshop
The Steno- and office-goers.
grapher’s Guild, T. Nagar, The workshop will focus
has proposed to conduct o n b a s i c g r a m m a r,
a free one-day workshop making sentences and
on English grammar on spoken English. The
Sunday April 12, from 10 admission is on first-
a.m. to 4 p.m. It is meant come-first-served basis.
for school and college For more details
students, job-seekers contact: 044-24342421.
Guild’s Renovated Daily Trip to
Thirupathi
Computer Lab
The Steno-
grapher’s Guild, T.Nagar,
increased capacity, the
Guild will be able to cater
is opening a completely to a larger strength of
renovated computer Lab
with high configuration
students with more
comforts. The Guild
state-of-the-art would also undertake
computers with complete recruitment tests on
networking facility on computers and also
Wednesday, April 15 at conduct training courses
10.00am. The forty- for the Staff corporate
seater computer lab, with and non-corporate
provision to increase to offices. The Guild would
80 terminals, will be also introduce more
opened by Shri. N. sophisticated and latest
Murali, the Managing computer courses like
Director, The Hindu. SAP, in design and other
With this advanced level courses.

Workshop on career Science city to

guidance
Science City will
hold a workshop on ‘Career
guidance for students’ on
April 16 for those who have
taken Standard XII
examinations.
According to a
release, the workshop
would cover various fields
of engineering and
technology, agricultural
sciences, veterinary
sciences, medical
sciences, basic sciences,
and areas, including civil
service examinations.
hold workshop
Science City management, training on
Eminent professionals will organise a workshop vermi-culture and setting
from these fields would on ‘Health and Wealth up of nutrition garden.
address students, the from Waste’ for women, Only 50 women would be
release said. Participants
of the workshop would at its premises on Gandhi selected for the free
receive a certificates. Mandapam Road on April workshop. For details,
Last date for receiving 18.The workshop will call Science City on
applications is April 13. comprise lectures on 24454054/34.
Those desirous kitchen waste
of participating may
contact the Science City
office on Periyar Science
and Technology campus,
Gandhi Mandapam
Road, or call 24454054,
24454034.

Weekly specials to Jaipur

Southern Railway
will run weekly specials
from Chennai Central to
Jaipur in both directions
during April, May and June.
Train No. 0675
will leave Chennai Central
at 4.30 p.m. every Monday
from April 13 to June 22
and reach Jaipur at 5.55
a.m. on Wednesday. In the
return direction, train No.
0676 will leave Jaipur at
12 noon every
Wednesday from April 15
to June 24 and reach
Chennai Central at 9.15
p . m . o n F r i d a y.
Reservation had
commenced, according
to a Southern Railway
release

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

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

Tamil New Year celebration

Sri Chakra Vinayagar Bhaktha Jana Sabha will
celebrate the Tamil New Year on Tuesday, April 14 in
Little Oxford School, Ramanujam Street, T.Nagar.: 5 pm:
Mass chanting of Vishnu Sahasranaamam and other
stothrams. 6 pm: Panchanga patanam by Vaidyanatha
Dikshithar. All are welcome.
Page 4
Golusu pattu the new trendy wear
Silk sarees, which
have for long been the
hallmark of tradition, can
g e t t r e n d y. P a t t e r n s
originally associated with it
can give way to newer,
more modern designs. And
designer sarees need not
necessarily imply chiffons
or silk cottons, pattu sarees
can bear that look too. It is
beliefs like these that have
helped promote a modest
one-room establishment,
Sri Palam Silks, to a 2,000
sq ft showroom in the saree
hub of the city, T Nagar.
They have launched the
new Golusu Collection.
The silk weaves
and the anklet, two
symbols of the South
Indian tradition, have today
been brought together to
make a modern saree.
Simply put, it is a silk saree
which comes with work
involving beads and the
golusu at its border. The
golusu collection, which
starts at Rs 7,500 goes
Mumbai to Chennai in less than 20 hours
In its endeavour
to optimally utilise its
resources, Central Railway
(CR) has decided to
introduce a weekly
superfast train to Chennai
from Dadar which will
cover the entire distance in
19.50 hours.
This train will
cover 1,279 km between
Dadar and Chennai at an
Alpha Times April 12, 2009
K G Graduation day
upto Rs 20,000.
“It is often the
acknowledging that her
store does not trade with
at Seetharam Vidyalaya
Kindergarten
needs of
Graduation Day of SSRV
the gathering and Master
Srihari proposed vote of
Our Team
people that Editor
help us come was celebrated on April Thanks. Several tiny tots
out with 06. P. V. B a l a s u b - presented variety S. Raghunathan
innovations.
Advisor
W h e n a
mother said K. Venkataraghavan
she had to Reporters
buy chiffons Usha
because her Sai Narayan
daughter
w a n t e d Editorial Desk
m o d e r n S. Subhakeerthana
designs, we Photographer
started with
S. Mohan
the designer
concept Designer
saree. And M. Valarmathi
w h e n a Circulation
p e r s o n
ramaniam, School entertainment which S. Akbar Ali, 90947 99011
abroad had
t o b u y Secretary, Mrs. Rajeswari delighted the audience. Advertisement Desk
sarees but didn’t know to sarees in huge numbers, Ramkumar, Principal and There was overwhelming 90947 99006
drape one, the concept of it does believe in Mrs. Aruna Sridhara response from the
exclusivity and even Sankaran were present parents of UKG who
Owned and Published by
a readymade saree was
takes orders from its who distributed the gathered and took S. Raghunathan
introduced,” says
Jayasree Ravi, founder customers. Sri Palam certificates to the photograph of their Office
of Sri Palam Silks. Silks is located at 115, ch i l d re n . Ma ste r G. wards’ graduation
F 5 and 6, First Floor,
W h i l e Pondy Bazaar, T Nagar. Viswalingam welcomed ceremony.
Leo Complex,
41, Madley Road,
T.Nagar,
Chennai-600 017
average speed of 65 C S T- C h e n n a i t a k e s by reducing the number immense response from Ph: 4286 7784
kmph. CR operates three 26.45 hours. The third of halts en route thereby people travelling to 99400 24556
trains between Mumbai train, 2163 Dadar- increasing the speed Chennai and back we
and Chennai of which two Chennai, takes 23.15 between two stations. decided to use the CST- Disclaimer
originate and terminate at hours. However, this The train will halt at five Madgaon special Readers are recommended to
Chhatrapati Shivaji superfast train will save places - Pune, Solapur, superfast rake that was make appropriate enquiries
before entering into dealings
Terminus (CST) and one over 3.25 hours," said Wadi, Guntakal and lying idle. So without with advertisers who advertise
from Dadar. Shriniwas Mudgerikar, Renigunta. Introduced incurring additional costs in this publication, Neither.
"The two trains chief PRO of CR. on an experimental we will be able to cater to the Editor, nor the Printer and
Publisher do not vouch any
from CST - 1027 CST- Mudgerikar basis, it will be operated t h o u s a n d s o f claims made by advertisers
Chennai Mail takes 29.25 said the reduction in the once a week from April 28 passengers," said and hence shall not be held
hours whereas 1041 time has been achieved to May 19. "Seeing the Mudgerikar. liable for any adverse
consequences.

Annual

FAST TRACK
identification
NEWS The annual
identification of the
defence service
pensioners for the year
Free course for visually challanged 2009-2010 will be done
Nandini Voice for the De prived (M 60/1, 4 th at the DPDO, Teynampet
Cross Street, Besant Nagar) will conduct a 15-day free office. 12th 4.30 p.m Chennai Drama House Present “Kandapadi Kandupudi”
course on self-employment opportu nities for visually
impaired persons from April 15. Refreshments and IGNOU 7.00 p.m United Visuals Presents “TV” Varadarajan in
course materials will be provided free of charge. “Re(a)el Estate”
For further particulars, N. S. Venkataraman engineering
may be contacted in 2491 6037 or 2496 1346. 13th 7.00 p.m Augusto Creations Presents Augusto in
courses “Ranganathan Photo Studio”
Last Date The school of
The deadline for the receipt of applications for Engineering and 14th 7.00 p.m Stage creations Presents Kathadi Ramamurthy in “Ayya Amma
inclusion in the voters’ list and issue of voter identity Technology associated Ammamma”
cards is April 13. Applications can be given in with the Indira Gandhi
Corporation Zonal Office, Near Power House, Near National Open University
(IGNOU) is joining with 15th 7.00 p.m Goodwill Stage presents Kovai Padmanabhan
Dr. Ambedkar Statue at Arcot Road Kodambakkam
Sri Angala Parameswari In “Washingtonil Thirumanam”
Free computer training Education Trust to offer
The Tamil Nadu Foundation Inc Chennai: The certificate, diploma and 16th 7.00 p.m Kala Nilayam Presents K.S.Nagarajan in
Tamil Nadu Foundation Inc of the US is offering free degree programmes in “Marupakkam”
basic computer training for school dropouts and various engineering
students from the underprivileged section. Contact: branches from 2010. Dr 17th 7.00 p.m Gurukulam (Original Boys Co –95) Presents
2644 6319, 99401 21860 Latha Pillai, pro-vice- M.B.Murthy in “Ammavin Aranmanai”
Nose for news chancellor, IGNOU, said
that this had been
Calling all aspiring reporters. Yocee.com, a 18th 7.00 p.m Crazy Creations Presents Crazy Mohan in
website for kids in Chennai, is out with its student introduced to allow “Chocolate Krishna”
students who did not
reporter programme for those between 11 and 17 years. have access to higher
The website will select 20 reporters from the lot and give technical education 19th 4.30 p.m Sowmya Theatres Presents T.V.Radhakrishnan
them the opportunity to report events from their school in “Maanbumighu Nandhivarman”
and residential locality, interview authors and artistes. Civil services test
They will also be a part of workshops and reading 7.00 p.m Natakapriya Presents S.Ve.Shekher in
sessions. Details: www.yocee.com as per schedule “Mahabharathathil Mangatha”
The personality [Season (11th to 19th) Donar Pass : Rs.750/-,Rs.500/- Rs.300/-
'Strings Meeting Strings Series’ test for civil services
Daily Donar Pass: Rs.300,200,100,50/-]
KAPRI music and art mromoters is holding a a (main) examination,
scintillating Jugalbandi titeld `Strings Meeting Strings 2008, will be held as per
Series’(Carnatic - Hindustani) music concert schedule on April 14
ofKalaimamani Dr. M. Lalitha – Carnatic Violin and which the government
Ustad Rafique Khan – Sitar at 6.30 PM on Tamil New has declared as a holiday
Year’s Day April 14 at the R. K. Swamy on account of the birth
anniversary of Dr B R
Auditorium(Sivaswamy Kalalaya Senior Secondary Ambedkar, an official
School)No 5 Sundareswarar St, Mylapore statement said.
April 12, 2009
Police, traders clash:
Police personnel
attached to the Egmore
police station (crime wing)
on Thursday nabbed two
persons, Murugan and
Ezhumalai, suspected to
being involved in stealing
mobile phones in the city.
Based on their
confession, a police team
rushed to Sathya Bazaar in
American Library now functional
There is good
news for those who love
reading or are interested in
American history. The
American Library US
Consulate General in
Chennai opened its doors
to the public once more on
April 11. The library will
function and will be open to
the public on six days a
week — from Monday to
Saturday
If you wish to
know about the US
You can now learn French, German in Tamil
Tamil speakers
who are not fluent in
English will now be able to
learn foreign languages as
Loyola College is all set to
start courses in French
and German, using Tamil
as the medium of
instruction.
" T h e i d e a
occurred to us when a
student asked whether it
would be possible to teach
him French using Tamil
instead of English. A
working knowledge of
French, he felt, could help
him get a job," said Francis
M Peter, director, Research
Academy of Cumulative
Excellence (RACE), a
division of Loyola College
that equips individuals with
different levels of language
proficiency to help them
better career prospects.
Speaking to journalists
here on Wednesday, he
said that the concept of
using the mother tongue
for foreign language
instruction had already
been tested in the college
classrooms.
"We have found
the Pondy Bazaar area to
retrieve the stolen
mobiles from a cellphone
show-room. The traders
objected to the search
being conducted in a
particular shop and
refused to part with the
mobile phones. A police
vehicle was partially
damaged in the clash that
government and its
policies, American
values, history and
culture, the library is the
place to visit. It stocks
14,000 volumes of books
and subscribes to 137
periodicals and four
American newspapers.
There are CD-ROMs,
online databases and
more than 400
videotapes.
US consul
general Andrew T Simkin
that it works well with
some of our students
who have come from
Tamil-medium schools.
The new language
course aims to equip
individuals with a
functional knowledge of
the language. We
propose to select
dominant themes of daily
life and train people to
converse in these
aspects.
For instance,
introducing oneself,
asking for directions,
purchasing provisions
from a grocery store and
so on on.
We will also
g i v e t h e m a n
understanding of the
basic structure of the
language so that they
can become creative with
its usage," said Xavier
Raj, an experienced
French professor who
retired from the foreign
languages department of
the college. K Srinivasan,
Raj's colleague, the
instructor for German at
RACE, said that students
Alpha Times
ensued. Aggrieved
traders staged a protest
in front of the Pondy
Bazaar police station for
a while. Police have
registered a case.
Accused were interro-
gated to gain more
information.
inaugurated the library
at 11am. Visitors were
treated to a library walk',
which was followed by
high tea.
The American
Library library will open at
9:30am. Visitors are
required to carry a valid,
original photo identifity
proof. Electronic devices
have to be deposited with
t h e s e c u r i t y. Tw o -
wheeler or car parking
will not be available on
the consulate premises.
would find it easy to learn
the language as German
shared some structural
similarity with Tamil. "The
vowel sounds in both
languages are very
similar. This will facilitate
easy pronunciation.
There are certain simple
rules that need to be
understood. Once this is
done, it easy to read
German text. This can
happen even after three
sessions of three hours
each," he said.
Currrently
launching the initiative
with a basic-level
language course
spanning 15 days, with
coaching for three hours
a day, RACE plans to
expand it to intermediate
and advanced courses
as well, Francis Peter
said. Scheduled to start
on April 15, he said the
academy planned to
target students who had
finished school and were
looking to learn new
languages during
summer holidays.
Page 5
Vijay Shanti Builders launches "Infiniti"
P r e i m u m priced between Rs 9.50 extremely glad to cater to
property developer Vijay lakh and Rs 27.5 lakh. these needs by offering
Shanthi Builders on April ''The Infiniti will units at a price within the
07 unveiled its have a total built up area reach of common man'', he
affordable housing of 4,10,342 sq ft and is added.
project "Infiniti", at expected to be The "Infiniti"
Sriperumbudur on the completed in the next 21 would have several
Chennai-Bangalore months'', Vijay Shanthi amenities like Swimming
National Highway. Builders Joint Managing P o o l , Wa t e r B o d i e s ,
The Rs 130 Director Chandan Jain Jogging Track, Open Air
crore project, located
adjacent to the
told reporters at the
launch function.
Theatre, Outdoor Games,
Children Play Area, Park,
QueensLand Amuse- The project was Skating Rink, Library,
ment Park at Mevalur- strategically located on Browsing Centre, Children
kuppum in Chettipedu NH-4 diagonally opposite Activity Area, Yoga and
village near Sriperum- to Chembarabakkam Meditation Centre, besides
budur, would have 588 Lake and within five KM a Departmental Store,
units, comprising single, radius of several MNCs. Gym, Party Hall, Indoor
double and three- ''There is a Games, Recreation Hall,
bedroom apartments in a growing demand for Business Centre, Health
five acre area. affordable housing Club, Arts and Crafts
The apartments projects in Chennai in the Centre and a Desalination
range between 365 sq ft current economic plant.
and 1059 sq ft and were situation. We are
Prizes galore for Seetharam
Vidyalaya students
Lions Club celebrated World
water day on 23.03.2009. Quiz
competition was conducted for
school students. S. Harissh of
IX C bagged the first Prize. II
prize was shared by B. Akilesh
of IX C and Nitin Narasimhan of
IX A.
B. Akilesh C. Aravind The III Prize was shared by
S. Harissh
I Prize II Prize III Prize C. Aravind of VIII A,
Harivallabha of VIII C, K.
Siddharth of VIII A and J. Varalakshmi of VIII C.

Festivals galore from TTDC

The Tamil Nadu
Tourism Development
Corporation (TTDC) is
planning to organise a
mango festival in Chennai.
Usually, the mango festival
is an annual feature in
Krishnagiri, a town located
near the Mango city of
Salem.
This will be the
first time the State capital
will be hosting such an
event. Different varieties of
the fruit would be on
display, and people will get
a chance to taste different
varieties of the fruit
brought from different
parts of the country.
Besides, the
Corporation is also
planning to organise a
series of tourism
programmes in Tamil Nadu
- a music festival at Tiger
Caves in Mamallapuram, a
tea and coffee festival,
Chettinad heritage festival
and a literary festival at
Ettayapuram in
Thoothukudi district, which
is the birth place
renowned Tamil poets,
Umaru Pulavar and
Mahakavi Barathiyar are
in the pipeline.
According to
officials at the TTDC, the
international tourist
arrival to the State
escalated by 23 per cent
in 2008, accounting to a
total of 20 lakhs in the
previous year.
Most of the
foreign tourists were from
the UK, USA, Italy,
Germany, Holland and
France, visiting six world
heritage sites, including
G a n g a i K o n d a
Cholapuram and
Brahadeeswarar temples
at Tanjore. A section of
tourists were also from
Arab countries for
medical treatment in
Tamil Nadu.
Likewise, the
State had an inflow of
about six crore domestic
tourists, largely from the
neighbouring Andhra
Pradesh, Karnataka,
Kerala, Maharashtra and
West Bengal last year.
A large number of them,
the official said, came as
medical tourists to places
like Chennai, Vellore and
Madurai.
Meanwhile, the
TTDC launched its
website on Wednesday in
T a m i l
www.tamilnadutourism.or
g / t a m i l
<http://www.tamilnadutou
rism.org/tamil> featuring
tourist destinations in
Tamil Nadu. Dr V Irai
Anbu, Secretary, Tourism,
Dr M Rajaram,
Commissioner of Tourism
and Managing Director of
TTDC, participated in the
event.
TTDC is also
planning to expand its
websites in Hindi, Telugu
and few other Indian
languages, in an attempt
to attract more tourists
from other States.
Page 6 Alpha Times April 12, 2009
News You can use Discover your B U D G E T A D S .
Summer camp talents
Landmark is organising an annual summer
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Factory 2009. Children will be able to participate and camp conducts camp for
learn innovative ways of spending their summer. From kids aged 9 to 13 years.
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Spencer Plaza, Anna Salai. Detective Club, to
improve analytical,
Seminar deducted skills and
develop problem solving
Hypnotique Circle conducts a seminar on strategies, the Robotic
Positive Self Talk, followed by a session of mass Club, to help the child
relaxation by hypnotist P Dharmaraj on April 12, Hotel create Becham or
Palmgrove, Kodambakkam High Road, 2.30 pm to 6 Drogba to pay in the
pm. For details call : 9282173771. Soccer Robo Compe-
titions; Dra-matics Club,
Earth day contest where the child will
create skits and plays
The Go Green project by Parampara and and Phototgraphy Club,
Blueberries Ice cream organises contests for kids to acquire hands-on
between three and 15 years of age on April 19. Those
interested in drawing, painting, colouring, handwriting
experience of the Toilet Cleaning
nuances of photography
and fancy dress can register their names at and many more from Monthly Rs. 200
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You can take home loads of prizes. The event will be 9.30 am to 4.30 pm. For
held at Blueberries Banquet hall, No. 20, details call: 98840
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This
(except Sundays) at the Physical Education office,
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six, seven to 10 and 11 to
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Develop your personality Chennai.
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Costs
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others. Registration fee is
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April 12, 2009 Alpha Times Page 7
India General Elections 2009
Language Arts
The Power of Words
Words hurt, words have even more
Voter's guide please, motivate and
a n n o y. T h e y a r e
power than our thoughts
because they not only
Are there any arrangements for the videography of
critical events during the election process? powerful. They control affect us, but the people
emotions and can even and the world around us.
Yes. Video teams are formed in the constituency to record
control a person Successful people take
and videotape critical events like meetings
addressed/attended by ministers, national/state-level physically. Speaking
comes to most people as
control of their words,
rather than letting their
Wish what you wish for…
leaders of political parties, incidents of violence, etc Breathe slowly, but deeply. Now close your
naturally as breathing. words control them. They
On many occasions our are more conscious of eyes and pray or make a wish with the firm belief that it’s
Is there any restriction on the printing of pamphlets, going to be definitely fulfilled. Now open your eyes. What
posters, etc? words are uttered without their thoughts and words,
conscious thought; in and the power they did you wish for?
A person can't print or publish, or cause to be printed or
published, any election pamphlet or poster which does not fact we rarely stop and unleash. Successful “I wished to become a doctor”, “I wished to have
bear on its face the addresses of the printer and the think about what we are people understand that a bungalow and a sports car of my own”, “I prayed to
publisher thereof saying. Thousands of they need to speak complete my semester with flying colours”, “I wished a
words pour out of us positively rather than prosperous life”, “I wished to possess all things in the
Are there any guidelines for setting up election booths each day as our negatively in order to world”, “I wished to be a celebrity in future” — these are
by candidates / political parties near polling stations on thoughts, opinion, succeed. Such people
judgments and beliefs are characterised by the some of the things most of you would have wished for.
the day of the polling? But have you observed how self-centred we
An election booth can be set up beyond a distance of 200 are freely expressed. But words they speak. They
metres from the polling stations, only with one table and two are we aware of the know the importance of are? The dearest thing to us is nothing other than our
chairs with an umbrella or a piece of tarpaulin or cloth to positive or negative speaking the words that own self. Our parents, our siblings, our friends were
protect the two occupants with one banner (3 X 4 1/2 feet) to effects these words have will build self-esteem and nowhere in our prayers, in our wishes that were made
display the name of the candidate/ party/ election symbol at on ourselves and the confidence, build from the depth of our heart. Our parents, siblings and
the booth. No crowd is allowed. people around us. relationships and open other relatives also our own flesh and blood but we
Words have up possibilities. They hunger for our own betterment and progress. That’s
Is it necessary to obtain the written permission of the tremendous power. They speak words of something really odd on our part, isn’t it?
authorities concerned for setting up the election determine peace or war. a f f i r m a t i o n ,
booth? They justify life and encouragement, love, Close your eyes once again and repeat the
Yes death. Words can be acceptance and process with the same devotion and belief. Now open
soothing or harmful. appreciation. your eyes. What did you wish for this time?
Words give out energy To see more “I wished joy and happiness for me and for my family”, “I
and a message which personal success, the wished to be able to send my parents for Chardhaamj
Jaya’s lucky number creates a reaction in
others. Everything you
words that we speak
need to be in alignment
from my own hard-earned money”, “I prayed that all my
AIADMK supremo J Jayalalithaa, a firm wishes and that of my siblings get fulfilled” — hmmm,
say produces an effect in with what we want to see that’s good. The canvas has broadened up a bit this time.
believer in numerology and astrology, has stuck to her the world. Think of the being produced in our
lucky number 5 and 9, even at the risk of breaking ties First we prayed for ourselves only, now our families are
number of people you life, our vision and our
with alliance parties. As she was firm in contesting 23 have made happy by dreams. Our words can also included in our prayers.
seats, (two+three is five), she denied an extra seat to saying, “I really determine our destiny. Now suppose you are standing in front of a
the MDMK and the negotiations dragged on for more appreciate you”. Or the Even more importantly, billionaire and you are asked to demand whatever
than 10 days. Finally, the seat-sharing pact was number of people you our words can make a amount of money you wish for, with a surety you would be
signed on a lucky day (April 9). On the same day, she have hurt by saying, positive difference in the given that particular amount. Undoubtedly, taking the
released the list of candidates and her election “What’s wrong with you?” lives of the people we best advantage of this golden opportunity, you are going
campaign programme. Although, a public meeting on or “Can’t you do anything interact with everyday. to demand a pretty handsome amount (some of you may
April 16, will start her election campaign, right?” So before we even ask for the entire sum). But what if someone just
Jayalalithaa's tour will begin on April 18 (one+eight is There is a great speak we have to ask
nine). says, “Just give me 50 rupees.” You would gaze at that
need to understand life ourselves: is what I am
and feelings for and of about to say going to person strangely and without waiting for a single moment
everyone. We need to uplift the hearer? Will it you are going to certify him as a dunce. But what if you
What is the deadline after which no public meetings and
processions can be taken out? respect each other and inspire, motivate and also behave like this dunce? Surprised? See, we
Public meetings and processions can't be held during a that can happen only create forward acknowledge the immeasurable generosity of the
period of 48 hours ending with the hour fixed for the when we reciprocate momentum for them? Almighty but when it comes to making a wish or asking
conclusion of the polling other people’s warmth Will it dissolve fear and Him to grant us something, we just do what the other
and maintain a loving create safety and trust? fellow did by asking for just Rs50 when he could have
Is there any restriction on the presence of political attitude towards others. Will I create a positive or asked for millions.
functionaries in a constituency after the campaign We need to be in full negative ripple effect by In the same way, we tend to pray only for
period is over? control of ourselves. speaking out these
An important words? ourselves and widen our circle only to our family
After the closure of the campaign period, the political members. It’s silly of us to ask for so little despite knowing
functionaries, etc, who have been brought from outside the key to success in life is to Let others
constituency and who are not voters of the constituency understand the power of decide for themselves there are boundless bounties that Almighty can bestow
should not remain in the area. They should leave words. A word is a what they want to gain or on His beings. We don’t include the entire humanity in
immediately after the campaign period ends thought eternalised. Our loose. We have a our prayers, that’s should be the right way of praying
thoughts do have a great responsibility to groom before the Creator of the entire universe.
Why was it necessary to switch over to EVMs from effect on us even though ourselves so we need to Recently, in our yoga class when our teacher
ballot paper elections? they are internal. What teach ourselves the made us the aforementioned exercise, all of us were
The counting of ballot papers in an election used to take long we think effects the way healthy way of amazed at our foolishness. The Creator of the universe is
hours, creating a charged atmosphere for the counting we live our life, it effects progressing in life and
officials as well as the candidates/ political parties. our emotions, our how to be kind-hearted inviting all of us to wish for whatever we want, but,
Sometimes this was aggravated by the demand for re- attitudes and our and loving in our relations inauspiciously, we are not making good of the golden
counting resulting in a low margin of difference of votes behaviour. A thought with family, friends and opportunity. We, the dim-witted souls, are yearning for a
between the top two candidates coupled with a large spoken, however, has also generally. Let’s be drop of water from the sea that is simply beyond
number of invalid and doubtful votes even more power. It can determined to unleash measurement.
never be taken back; for the power of words for Today, let’s promise ourselves to include the
How votes are counted in EVMs? once it is out of our positive change and think entire humanity in our prayers and supplications, and
In the counting centre, the EVMs are kept on a number of mouth, it will have an before speaking pray in the right manner.
counting tables whose number normally does not exceed effect on someone. Our
14. Seating arrangements are made for the counting agents - S. Raghunathan - S. Raghunathan
in such a way that they can clearly watch the EVMs and its
display. When the result button of an EVM is pressed, its
display segment indicates the total number of votes polled in Netas spoke
a particular polling station and then shows the votes polled I will not ride Tata’s Nano car because it has been manufactured with the people’s blood
by each candidate in a serial order.
— Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee
Suppose I'm working and living in Chennai, can I be a
voter in my native village?
My feeling is that why should a Fourth Front be not formed at the Centre. Those parties which are opposed
You are ordinarily resident in Chennai. Therefore, you can to the current formations can join hands with us to from the Fourth Front
be enrolled in Chennai only and not in your native village
— Telugu star and Praja Rajyam Party chief Chiranjeevi
After the polling, where are the EVMs kept till counting? Vajpayee not being around during the ongoing campaign is painful. During the last elections, Vajpayee did
The polled EVMs are generally kept in a secure storage not campaign much but was at least there
centre in the constituency or a nearby place on which the — LK Advani
candidates or their representatives can keep watch. Mostly
it is the same place where the counting is done
I will win by a margin of three lakh votes. We have got the experience of winning elections. I will consult the
A person is a member of the Scheduled Castes in a party cadres and draw up my strategy and work according to it
particular state. Can he contest the LS poll from any
other state from a seat reserved for the SCs? – MK Azhagiri
Yes
If the National Security Act has been imposed on Varun Gandhi even without a proper investigation, then why not
against Lalu Prasad?
Is the wearing of special accessories like cap, mask,
scarf, etc, permitted during campaigning?
— BJP president Rajnath Singh
Yes. However, the supply and distribution of the main
apparel like sari, shirt, etc, by a party/candidate is not “I am a disciplined party worker and I have left everything to the party president. I am not going to pursue for my ticket
allowed as it may amount to bribing voters . for the upcoming polls.”
— Senior Congress leader Jagdish Tytler
Page 8 Alpha Times April 12, 2009

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