Rs 20
September 2008 Vol1 Issue 2
Contents
Contents
In the pink of health... 16 Is accent a sign of ascent in social ladder? 18 Dreamz Unlimited 24
Groups sans frontier 8
No-Nonsense Naresh 26 Andhra to America 7
Mehifil-e-masti 32 Bonds that last 10 Sip gracefully 23
Scents & Sensibility 14
Delicacy par excellence 30
Power girls’ agenda 20
Effervescent launch crowns Hyderabad 34
A new era in beauty care 38
Walking the talk 40
Let your diet be fruitful 44 Kinng Kumar 49 Made for each other 50 Bridal collection 51 Green-fingered gentry 52 Turkish tempest 54 Endless delight 55
Passion for fashion 48
La Celeb goes to the next level 46 Make way for the senior 56 Italian delicacies 60
‘Chiru’ in a big role 61 P3 - 62
Editor’s line September 2008
Vol 1, Issue 2
Editor & Publisher Goteti Jagan Mohan Rao (MOHAN GOTETI) Chief Operations Officer S.B.S.N. Raju
Hyderabad josh makes an impact Hi, Hyderabad Josh has created a sensation. The city's newest magazine has done its part. We are not saying it, but our readers vouch for it. As soon as the magazine hit the stands, we had a shower of compliments from several quarters. Some people called me on my mobile, others SMSed and still others sent emails congratulating me on launching a trendy magazine that best reflects the city's life. I thank every one of them. In this regard, I thank Chief Minister Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy and former Union Minister Dr. Dasari Narayana Rao for spending their valuable time at the launch of our magazine on August 7th. They both complimented the magazine for its production quality and content. We now place before you the second issue of Hyderabad Josh with even more interesting and inspiring content. The interview with Prashanti, daughter of comedian AVS, will be of particular interest. At a time when values are declining and relationships within the family are being undermined, Prashanti donated a part of her liver and helped save her dad and my best friend AVS. Kudos to Prashanti and her husband Srinivas who supported her! The young couple have become role models for the younger generation. Comedy star Allari Naresh relates his filmi experiences, while new talent and Happy Days' fame Sonia expresses her feelings. A feature on youth and career sheds light on what makes dreams come true.
General Manager Sowjanya Subba Rao Associate Editor R Murali Feature Writers Prabhu Lasya Vemparala Anjali Photography MC Shekhar Administrative Manager D.S. Ram Creative Designer K. Vani Graphic Designers Mahesh Sunitha Printed and Published by Goteti Jagan Mohan Rao on behalf of SMS Publications at G2, Plot : 589, HIG, VI Phase, KPHB Colony, Kukatpally, Hyderabad -72. Printed at Vamsi Art Printers Pvt. Ltd. 11-6-872, Red Hills, Lakdi-ka-pool, Hyderabad-500 004, A.P. Phone : +91 40 23311858 / 23307743
Many more informative articles and features have been packed for your reading pleasure. www.hyderabadjosh.net contact@hyderabadjosh.net Phone (Off) 040 -40060862 Mobile : 9963201122 Cover Girl : Actress Kaveri Jha
Glimpses From Andhra to America
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orget about climbing corporate ladders, our actors believe in crossing language and cultural barriers. From Ashwarya Rai to Shilpa Shetty, western cinema has an irresistible appeal to these beauties. Our own Shriya is not far behind. After making a mark in southern cinema, she “graduated” to Hindi. Though her foray into Hindi cinema has been lackluster, with her last release Mission Istanbul flopping, she went on to grab a Hollywood film. An AdlabsMGM combined venture, The Other End of the Line is about an Indian call center employee traveling to US to meet her phone friend. Shriya posed for Maxim in a darebare bikini recently and caught the eyeballs of the entire nation. She apparently had international attention as well. In spite of all this, the Haridwari lass claims that Telugu cinema holds a special place in her heart.
Balu, Billoo and Super Stars
P
riyadharshan might be India’s official Malayalam Movie Re-maker, but at least he gets the big guns to act for him. Billo Barber, which is a remake of Katha Parayambul, has already been made into Kuselan in Tamil and Kathanayakudu in Telugu. Starring Pasupathy / Jagapathi Babu and super star Rajnikanth in the lead, Kuselan failed to set the BO cash registers ringing, much to the dismay of the people involved. This surely must have got Shah Rukh thinking whether signing this non-blockbuster flick was worth it, while Irfan Khan really has nothing to lose. With so many guest appearances, from Nayanatara to Mamta Mohandas and even son-in-law Dhanush, Rajni’s Kuselan left moviegoers unimpressed. All this just goes to show that the success of a movie is not linked to stars or the hoopla. People are smart.
Golden Boy
H
oardings of Vishal’s latest movie, Salute, all over the city, have the actor with co-star Nayanatara in a brand new bronzed look. Vishal, who plays a cop in his new release, sports a toned bod proudly along with ample amounts of golden bronzer. The dusky lad and his leading lady flaunt this relatively new look for southie cinema. His revamped moustache and his cop-like demeanor make the movie the talk of the town. Ash in Dhoom is one thing and our answer to Sunairi is another.
Chic Chick
I
lleana might get annoyed if someone says she was “dropped” from Sultan, as she claims she had “opted out.” The reason could be remuneration issues. However, fellow stars insist that there were some date hassles too. Anyway, Illeana’s loss is a gain to Vijayalaxmi, who has done movies such as Chennai 28 and Anjathe in Tamil. Illeana has lost the chance to reach out again to Tamil audiences, whereas Vijayalaxmi has got a chance to reach out to everyone -- from Telugu to Japanese Rajni fans. Soundarya Rajnikanth’s enterprising venture has been in the news for very long and it is bound to be one of the most awaited movies of 2009. Illeana is currently shooting for VV Vinayak’s flick, pairing up with NTR for the second time after Rakhee. SEPTEMBER 2008
7
Communities
Groups
sans
frontier A
blog is a website where entries are made in journal style and displayed in a reverse chronological order. One can post messages, photos, music and videos. In addition to frequent publication of personal thoughts, some prefer to include relevant web links. Consisting normally of texts and images, they can appear in a calendar-type format. Information is instantly published to a website. Blog scripting allows a person to automatically post information to a web site. On this online diary, some people post messages, photos, music or videos, while others may view and respond to such posts. Blogs are typically updated daily using software that facilitates people with little or no technical background to maintain the blog. The process of updating a blog is "blogging" and someone who keeps a blog is a "blogger." Although widely described as a 'personal' online journal, a blog is intended for general public consumption. A blog normally reflects the personality of the author or the purpose of the website that hosts the blog. In recent years, blogs have become acceptable and somewhat dependable sources of information. In fact, a sort of mania has gripped the blogosphere, with netizens making a beeline to their favorite blogs. Blogs are categorized as best articles, newest blog entries, top blogging sites, new sites and most hit-on bloggers. The subjects they reflect range from introspection to analysis of current affairs. The aspect that has a universal appeal is the personal type of blogging community.
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The internet has changed forever the way we look at ourselves individually or collectively! A blog virtually enables a peek at an individual's personal or an organization's internal matters detailed in the public domain. At best, it facilitates communities sans frontier.
Can communities, which are purposedriven and group-driven, be objectively supported by blogs that are subjectively posted? On the face of it, there appears to be little or no connection between blogging and disparate communities. Blogs are driven by an individual. Hence, there is tremendous scope for digression in the topics. All said and done, there is still ample space for a gathering of community members in the blogosphere. Blogging offers exclusive private space, as many people are creating blogs to express their feelings freely. The feelings range from issues dogging this life to possible ones in afterlife. Be it on world affairs or extraterrestrial life, blogs have infused a commendable degree of camaraderie among people who may or may not have ever met face to face. For bloggers, the idea that they are not likely to run into one another hardly matters. What matters to them is a close look at something that is of interest at a given point of time.
These people talk to each other as though they are extremely close friends. This introduces a new dimension to emotional health: the power of virtual friendship. When something significant happens to a person, he may receive hundreds of comments under the particular blog post. The responses may offer advice, information and emotional support from chums in the blogosphere. Of course, there are divergent views on such empathy, but the general perspective seems to be one of a positive approach to humanity. People are really spilling out their souls and are accepting criticism as well as unsolicited advice. Some do find solutions to their problems. This seems to be truly inspirational, because out there we see a vibrant human 'tribe' that has virtually sprung from the internet.
The intimacy bloggers share from what are construed as arbitrary acquaintances is astounding. One could perceive the whole lot of experiences as a form of therapy. Some aver it is much more than that. This is a sign of a revolution. The coming of the New Human Tribe has begun. If random bloggers can evolve into a community of people who trust, respect and bond with one another, it is indeed a fitting tribute to human evolution. Suddenly the world seems to have shrunk. People are tired of segregated and separatist reality of countries, cultures, races and religions. The net has made the global village a reality. Group blogging sites or collective on-line journals are symbolic of this inter connectedness.
- Lasya
By choice bloggers spend a lot of time communicating with one another other. Some write new entries every day. Some pen articles, while others initiate conversations. The conversations usually begin in the 'comments' section. It is not unusual to find people stay up until the early hours blogging.
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Role Model
H
pics by M.C. Shekhar
uman bonds are varied. The suckling at the mother's breast knows the benefactor instinctively. As the child grows, father, siblings, grandparents, maidservant, teachers, mentors and others start entering his life at different points of time. What ultimately remains at the core of each of these relationships is determined by the process of bonding in which both parties give and take.It is trendy for the besotted lover to talk about giving his 'heart' away to his ladylove. A mother straining her body and mind to keep her children happy is taken for granted. The father as a provider who always thinks of business and rarely of family is almost proverbial. Some of these enduring relationships are being undermined by the demands of 'modern' life. Things have come to such a pass that aging couples become a liability in the very home they build with sweat and blood for their children.
Tell us about yourself. I did my B. Sc. Computers and a software course at NIIT. I took deep interest in cultural activities at school and college -- Good Samaritan and Villa Marie. I learnt classical dance as a child. I was born in Guntur and lived there until I finished VII grade. I finished the rest of my education in Hyderabad. I got married in December 2002.
Describe your relationship with your father. We are like friends. We are extremely attached to each other. He always takes special care of me. He gets me everything -- even before I ask for it! In fact, I guess I'm closer to my dad than my mother.
How about the rest of the family? We are a closely knit family. My mother Asha is a very friendly person. I share everything with her. My brother is a year and a half younger to me. We are like friends and he takes a lot of my advice.
I and my dad are like friend s. We are extrem ely attached to each other. He always tak es special care o f me. He gets me everything - even before I ask for it! In fact, I guess I'm closer to my dad than my mother We have families in which the son-in-law, a rank outsider,' offers his kidney to save the life of his father-in-law. The other day media reports highlighted how a woman launched legal proceedings to stop her husband from donating his kidney to save his parent. In such cases, deciding which of the bonds, parent-child or husband-wife, should prevail is rather dicey. The recourse then is to listen to one's conscience. Hyderabad Josh spoke to Prashanthi, daughter of noted comedian AVS. An intelligent young woman, she is the kinda girl Hyderabad Josh salutes! Less than two months ago, this courageous lady donated a portion of her liver to save her dad, who never fails to have his audience in splits whether he does a cameo or a full-fledged role. Post-surgery, AVS is watching a movie on the telly. As I enter the room, he gets up and introduces himself with humility that is touching. The genuine warmth in his feelings set the tone for the rest of the evening well-spent in the company of a family in which filial, marital, friendly and fraternal ties have stood the test of testing times.
My husband is actually my brother's friend. We have been friends since the time I was 17. We were living in the same colony. Ours is a love marriage. Together we have set up our business and stay close to each other 24/7. (At this, her husband gently protests: "Are you going to tell everything? All this is personal!").
What went wrong with your father's health? When did you come to know about it? In 2003, he collapsed suddenly. We took him to Care Hospital. Initially we did not realize the gravity of the problem. He had some internal bleeding and that problem appeared fixed. In 2005, the same thing happened again in Bengaluru, but there was no mention of a transplant. Two months ago we took him to Care for a routine examination. They did some tests and declared that he needed a liver transplant. We were told to go ahead with the liver transplant within a period of six months to one year. We took him to other hospitals for a second opinion. A few days later, my dad collapsed once again. On top of that, he failed to recognize any of us. After a few more tests, it became clear that he needed a liver transplant; and, that too, within 15 days. My husband had volunteered to donate his liver, but my mom, my brother and I underwent tests for getting a match.
How did you decide to donate your liver? The results of my mother's and brother's tests proved negative. After 10 days, it was confirmed that my liver matched the requirement. I was very happy, though my mother was particular about donating her liver. There was no time for second thoughts. In any case,I had already made up my mind. I wasn't scared or nervous. The first thing I did was to go on the internet. and read up on liver transplants. It gave me a lot of confidence that my father will be okay.
How did your in-laws and parents respond to your decision? At heart my father didn't want me to do it, because he cares for me very much. The family had a tough time convincing him. The doctors were happy when the family conveyed my decision. As for my in-laws, they are educated and kind-hearted. In fact, when my father went to them apologetically to apprise them of my decision and to seek their opinion, they simply told him that he shouldn't have come all the way to say that. My sister-in-law is a doctor. She knows that I will be able to lead a healthy and normal life 2-3 months after the surgery.A healthy person undergoing such an operation will certainly take time to recuperate, but would become normal pretty soon. My husband has been my constant source of support. He never questioned my decision.
What were your thoughts right before the transplant? How did the surgery go? This happened on 15th July, 2008. It was a 15-hour surgery. They took me in at 6-30 a.m. and the main operation went on till 3-30 p.m. They took my father in at 10 a.m. SEPTEMBER 2008
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ALWAYS IN LOVE
We asked Srinivas, Prashanthi's husband, about his experience. Quiet and reserved by nature, Srinivas has found in Prashanthi a dependable voice. With Prashanthi on the bed recuperating, the doting husband says: "We are best friends, though we used to quarrel a lot when we were in college." Prashanthi adds: "We need to share everything constantly. I'm always with him."
When Srinivas was asked whether he missed her all these days, Prashanthi replies with a chuckle: "He never really left my side." Srinivas has done two movies as a child artiste. Will we see him play larger roles in movies soon? "Yes,I'm interested," he says promptly. Prashanthi signs off: "I won't oppose his decision. I'm with him."
a patient. Right now my father is like a newborn baby. People know about transplants involving cadavers, but not many are aware of a living donor liver transplant. Some people called up my brother and asked him whether I was alive! A person can survive with 20% of their liver. I donated 40% of my liver, and, going by ultrasound scans, it's already started regenerating. In three months, my truncated liver will return to its original state. There are people who have a notion that "a liver is not a kidney." Their logic is that since everybody has two kidneys, one can be safely donated. But as there is only one liver, they think it's not possible to apply that logic. They therefore just give up or wait for a cadaver. Such people should be informed.
Which hospital did you opt for? How were the doctors? We got the surgery done at Global Hospitals. There were two options -Global or Kamineni. Since we know some people at Global, we settled for it. My father had been seeing Dr. Srinivas of Care for a long time. He recommended us doctors for the surgery-Md Rela's name has entered the Guinness Book of World Records as a surgeon who operated on a six-day-old baby. The entire team was very friendly. It lasted till 9-30 p.m. all through the period I was calm and collected, as I had gleaned all essential information about the surgery. Some risks are involved, particularly during surgery.I have seen many relatives go through major and minor surgeries. A psychiatrist came to me the night before and advised me not to get tensed. I was surprised and I let it be known that I was least perturbed. It was then his turn to be surprised. He hailed me for the way I was taking the whole thing.
What sort of health hazards could it pose for you in the future, especially at the time of childbearing? What other risks are involved? No risk. Like I said earlier, this surgery can pose risks at the time of the operation. Beyond that, there are hardly any problems. Soon I will be able to commence normal life. I got a complete blood picture and an MRI scan done. I'm a healthy person now. I consulted a gynecologist, who has assured me that this surgery would not cause any problem to me at the time of child-birth. Six months after surgery, I can plan it if I want to.
Was the operation painful? What is the status now? Pain is inevitable in any surgery. For the first three days I was in the ICU and was mostly under sedation or awake but with painkillers keeping me quiet. Once I was shifted to the room, I was in pain, but it was not something unbearable. Even now I have slight pain, but it's subsiding every day. I'm not supposed to lift anything heavy. I am not going out yet. Otherwise, I'm fine.
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That's the physical part. Mentally, how tough was it to endure? I'm just glad I could be of some use to my father. He's always given us what we wanted. He struggled for us. His whole life has been dedicated to us. That fateful day when they told us that he had just 1% chance for survival and when we saw for ourselves that he couldn't remember us, it broke my heart. I wanted to cry, but I couldn't do so in front of my mother. I just closed the door and cried my heart out. I made a decision at that point and stood by it.
Was it a sacrifice or duty? Duty. People tell me it's a great sacrifice, but I disagree. He's important to us. We want him to be healthy. Nothing else counts.
There are so many people with a medical condition akin to that of your father. What would you tell their family members? Most people are not fully aware, because they don't have the right kind of information. The reason why I'm giving details of what happened to my father is that the lay people should know more about liver transplant and understand what they can do to help a family with a situation like ours. A patient is always at a risk, but no doctor will take a risk on a healthy person. Obviously, since such surgeries do go on, it gives us food for thought. It's not as dangerous as it is made out by scare mongers. Organ donation gives a new lease of life to
If you have an option to go back in time, will you change your decision? No. I will stick to it, completely. Maybe, I would just pray that my father should not suffer this condition.
How is he doing now? When will he be ok? I think in another two or three weeks' time, he can resume normal life. He's just taking rest and recuperating now. He wants to get back to work as soon as possible.
When will you get back to your business? Any movies in the pipeline? I need to gain some more strength to get back to work. I have acted in a few movies as a child artiste, but I'm not into movies. I did get some offers, but I never took them seriously. Maybe if something really good comes along, I will lap it up. In another month or so I should be back to work.
What got you all through this tough time? As a family, we bonded very well and gave one another constant support. The support and confidence the doctors gave us also helped. My husband and in-laws were also a source of strength.
What's your message to our readers? Parents are important in a person's life. Family bonding is something people are neglecting due to busy schedules etc. I'd just like to say that we need to make time for our families, as we are incomplete without them. If there's anything we can do for them, we should do so readily.
- Anjali
Attraction
By Lasya Vemparala
P
erfumes have always been a vital part of human culture. People have perfumed their hair and bodies with oils, resins, flowers, herbal extracts and animal scents for aeons. Thousands of years ago, the Egyptians used perfume to anoint and embalm the dead, particularly rulers. Wearing any perfume is pleasurable. It is an expression of individuality. It helps attract mates. Even if you are a loner perfumes can make you feel wonderful. Pampering the skin while bathing and wearing fresh clothes every day is not enough to feel fresh and ooze freshness all through the day. In order to be widely acceptable in elite circles comprising people with epicurean tastes one needs to smell really good, whether it is hot summer or freezing winter. This calls for effective use of right perfumes.
Like in the case of clothes, some people with good wardrobe skills use perfumes to suit various occasions and seasons. They stock up on differing scents to match their moods and the season. Deciding which perfume to wear depends on personal preferences and mood. Of course, there are some time-tested methods for choosing scents that match different seasons and times. Today, perfumes are a multi-billion dollar industry that spawns a wide range of items, from expensive bath oils, lotions and powders to candles. Of late, perfumes have become signature statements of fine-tuned tastes, awesome power as well as enhanced style and sophistication. For men too, perfumes have become symbols of affirmation of their personality and presence in the world of business.
Before choosing a particular line of perfume, you need to be clear about what you would like to wear and what you would like to avoid. Sometimes, the choice you ultimately make will hinge on your mood, the ambience, your age etc. That is, you may be tempted by a tiny curvaceous little bottle that contains what is clearly a magnificent perfume, but you can't wear it if you happen to be allergic to an ingredient in it. You perhaps love the way the perfume smells. Still, when you put it on, you could get a splitting headache and your eyes may start watering. At the end of the day, you may be wondering whether it is of any worth at all. How can you be sure your favorite perfume is good and the right one for you? Do you simply go by the brand name, fragrance or, still worse, price? It could be the most expensive perfume, but there is no guarantee that it will be appropriate for you. A superb perfume might be great on one person, but incongruous on another. Choose your perfume for office wear carefully. Avoid heavy, seductive perfumes and overly sweet floral perfumes. Both will make you appear less professional. According to scientists, the most seductive perfumes are not the complex tones of musk and sandalwood. They are vanilla, basil or cinnamon. The newest trend in perfumes is to use it scents on textiles. Scientists are looking at ways in which fragrances can be permanently infused into fabrics so that they can survive washings. According to media reports, John Pierce, an associate professor of psychology at the Philadelphia University, and other researchers are trying to find ways to scent up textiles that
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Dior's "Tendre poison" MRP: Rs.3,650/ (90ml)
could lead to perfumed blankets and sheets. The most common way to describe a perfume is to go by the concentration level of its main ingredient, its origin and the distinctive odor it gives. Popular scents are floral that have like carnation, jasmine, violet, orange blossoms, lilies, orchids, just to name a few. All perfumes and colognes are different and have affinity to personality and skin types of users.
Avoid heavy, lush scents when the weather is warm. The heat can make them overpowering.
Choose a sophisticated, but light perfume for everyday and office wear. Many synthetic blends strike just the right note for professionals. Be a little daring for dates and nights on the town. Experiment with perfumes that have an Oriental base such as musk or civet.
Calvin Klein's "Euphoria" MRP: Rs.3,400/-(100ml)
Britney Spears's "Midnight fantasy" MRP: Rs.2,780/(100ml)
Wear sophisticated and romantic florals for weddings and special functions. Highlight your sensual side with a perfume based in woodsy and Oriental tones. Enjoy the calming effects of lavender and vanilla.
pics by M.C. Shekhar courtesy : Shopperstop
If it is autumn, experiment with light spicy notes, say scents with cinnamon. Spice undertones are warming, but not too heavy. So they are perfect for cool days.
Look for heavy scents such as musk and spice for winter wear. Perfumes with oriental notes such as sandalwood and patchouli work well during winter months.
Elizabeth Arden's "Mediterranean" MRP: Rs.2,730/-(100ml)
Pick scents that are fresh and invigorating when the days are very hot. Wearing citrus or a synthetic "Ocean Breeze" type of scent will actually make you feel cool.
Most modern perfumes and colognes are made using fragrance oils that are developed inhouse with essential oils and aromatic chemi cals. Considering the rising demand for the lines of perfumes marketed by major companies, it appears that the perfume industry will always be on a growth trajectory.
Opt for light florals and citrus scents during spring and summer. Scents that are heavy can be over powering when the days are hot, particularly when they mix with body sweat.
Tips for choosing a perfume
Jean Paul Gaultier's "le male" MRP: Rs.3,400/-(125ml)
Fragrant compounds used in the perfume industry are obtained largely from plants, though fruits such as oranges, lemons, limes and grapefruit are also used. Sometimes, it could be seeds or woods that provide the base to a perfume.
Dolce & Gabbana's "The one" MRP: Rs.3,900/-(75ml)
Newer categories are being marketed these days as being appropriate to particular occasions. There are perfume makers who emphasize the setting the perfume evokes such as a forest environment that makes the smell all the more refreshing. The older generation in particular has a liking for such fragrances. The green brigade usually goes for a fragrance that is relatively light and meant for casual occasions. The younger generation is rooted in fragrances that are spicy and associated with the weather.
Valentino's "Rock n rose couture" MRP: Rs.4,225/- (90ml)
Depending on the percentage of concentration of perfume oil, they are variously classified as perfume or cologne. Typically, a perfume has 15-25% of perfumed oil. Thousands of types of perfumes are available today. The major categories include designer fragrances and celebrity fragrances. The demand for perfumes is always high and they are easily available, ranging from less expensive to prohibitively expensive variants that suit all tastes and pockets.
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Fitness
IN THE
PINK OF H
ealth is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity, according to the World Health Organization. It is a different matter that people take it to mean merely absence of illness and dysfunction of the body systems. All told, it is a healthy balance between your physical, mental and social well-being. Fitness is a fruitful combination of aerobic, strength, flexibility and cardiovascular indicators. It enables one to perform physical activity free from injury and well above sedentary levels. Exercise scientists have identified key components of fitness. They include: STRENGTH: The extent to which muscles can exert force by contracting against resistance (when holding or restraining an object or person) POWER: The ability to exert maximum muscular contraction instantly, usually in a burst of movements. It combines strength and speed (jumping or a sprint start). AGILITY: The ability to perform a series of explosive power movements in rapid succession, including in opposing directions (running zig zag or cutting movements). BALANCE: The ability to control the body's position,either stationary (handstand) or while moving (gymnastics stunt). FLEXIBILITY: The ability to achieve an extended range of motion without being impeded by excess tissue, i.e. fat or muscle (while executing a leg split).
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LOCAL MUSCLE ENDURANCE: A single muscle's ability to perform sustained work (rowing or cycling). CARDIOVASCULAR ENDURANCE: The heart's ability to deliver blood to working muscles and their ability to use it (running long distance). STRENGTH ENDURANCE: A muscle's ability to perform a maximum contraction time after time (continuous explosive rebounding through an entire basketball game). CO-ORDINATION: The ability to integrate the foregoing components for effective movement. How much is right? Most people labor under the illusion that a 30-minute workout on the treadmill or a one-hour walk per day would be more than enough to keep physically fit. Some bank on their fitness machine at home, claiming it keeps them within safe limits. Is that enough for health? Is it so simple? Not really. Actually, it is impossible to determine the precise amount of time you need to exercise for maintaining perfect health. Puffing and sweating can certainly be built into your daily routine, but there are no magic numbers. At least for some of the mess in our body, we need to blame it on our genes, because genes do influence our cravings. The first step then is to control your diet. Experts agree that eating little, but many times every day contributes to fitness. But, you need to watch what you eat. Always go for low-fat and low-carb diets, which reduce water retention.
There are some time-tested ways in which we can improve our health. It is easy to build them into our fitness regimen as well. Primarily, what could be disturbing the equilibrium of your body is plain muscle loss. If you are like most people, this gradual withering may have begun in your twenties or thirties. As it became more pronounced, your body started burning fewer and fewer calories per day, because fat demands less energy than muscle. While burning fewer calories, you also started absorbing more calories than what you choose to (or can) use up. In order to compensate for this mismatch and to ensure absolute fitness, you need hardcore workouts and somewhat strict exercise regimens. Experts opine that people who have only a few pounds to lose should lift weights. They say it is the most efficient way to stop muscle loss and obviate future weight gain. If you are keen on sculpting a beautiful body in the least possible time, you should be willing to start a cutting-edge fitness program, whether in a health club or at home. If you manage just a couple of 20minute workouts per week, you will be pleasantly surprised to notice well-defined biceps, strong shoulders, neat upper abdominals and healthy calves. Your energy levels will also shoot up. Sounds great? It is that simple! Fit as a fiddle You don't have to be an athlete to be fit as a fiddle. Certain exercise routines guarantee a productive hour in the morning. If you make them a part of your routine and make it a point to always eat the right foods,
you will begin to have focus, stamina and a positive outlook. Over a period of time, you will easily cut through your mazy schedule, because appropriate routines will transform your metabolism. You can then torch extra calories and melt additional fat. Physical fitness implies orderly performance of the heart, lungs and muscles of the body. It has a bearing on our cardio respiratory endurance, muscular strength, muscular endurance and flexibility. Fitness influences our mental and emotional development, since what we do with our bodies also affects what we can do with our minds. Make it a habit to move your body as much as possible. Climb stairs if have a choice, instead of opting for escalators or elevators. Walk your dog. Gambol with your kids. Toss balls and play with friends. Mow the lawn. Any such thing is OK, as bodily movement is a contribution to overall fitness. It is a stress buster. Physical activity is important to improve your health. So, make it a part of your daily life. You need to do a vigorous exercise. It
could be running for at least 30-45 minutes per day, at least three days every week. Walking is considered one of the best fitness activities. You can walk with family members, friends or coworkers. Otherwise, you can walk your pets. Keep track of your steps with a step counter or a pedometer. These gadgets help keep motivation levels high so that you can walk more. Gradually crank up your walks to half an hour or one hour. The very act of bending your elbows and swinging your arms briskly can help you jack up your speed. Introduce jogging or climbing stairs into your walks and watch the miracle. Contrary to the notion most people have, intense exercise does not suppress the appetite. Most people have a tendency to store fat like wealth below their waists. Even if you care a hoot about how you look, your body takes excess fat as an alarming sign. The belly fat that produces the classic ‘apple type’ body is a risk factor for heart disease and diabetes. Hips and thighs too play host to fat, often more tenaciously than the belly.
Strategies to counter build up of fat: Start with your diet. Switch to an exercise regime that will help in gradually reducing weight. Fitness is much more than sporting bulging biceps and defined deltoids. It involves building stamina, gaining flexibility and being light on the feet.
Together, health and fitness involve:
Flexibility Strength Endurance Nutrition Mental health
Eating sensibly, fitting a standard onehour exercise program into your daily routine, walking, and related activities will keep you mentally and physically fit. You will be active - all day long. It is now established that 60-90 minutes of walking per day, swimming, biking or gardening is a good workout. If this time is an intrusion in your busy schedule, then you need to make a choice between vanity and sanity.
SEPTEMBER 2008
17
Cross-border influence
S
everal slangy expressions have seeped into the personal lives of many Hyderabadis. In fact, some of the informal expressions have taken formal communication to a new low. It is a different matter that they have different implications at social gatherings. Cross-cultural influences apart, they do raise basic questions about whether we can afford to be judgmental about what’s OK and what is not okay. Hyderabad Josh takes a close look at this new citizen speak. “Hey dude!” “Whassup?” “How ya’doin?” These are not textbook examples of ghetto speak from downstate New York. These and other such expressions from American, British, Australian and other variants of English go with an accent and are very much an essential part of Apna Hyderabad. Some of these expressions might come from call-center employees, who may have been trained to cater to American or British clients. Although their main job is to perfect such expressions and talk rightly over phone to foreigners seeking solutions to their problems, these employees have learnt the tricks of the trade so well that they have no qualms about using it beyond their call of duty: in all their conversations at home and elsewhere. These slangy expressions consciously or otherwise enter their personal lives. They end up
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SEPTEMBER 2008
talking like that in real life too. Some of them might not have stepped even into Sri Lanka, but still put on airs with their cultivated New York accent or a Californian drawl. Then there are those who have studied or worked abroad. They cannot easily get over the hangover of speaking like say an American or an Australian. They just cannot wish away the cross-cultural influences even if they happen to be away from India for just a couple of years. Some people draw a parallel between these language copycats and people who wear their college attires or their university tee shirts well into late 30s to psychologically cling to their college days. Rajesh Chowdary, content developer at
cinegoer.com, says: “I have a friend who’s been to the UK. He is back now for a short period. He has shed the Hyderabadi or more specifically the Telugu tinge in his accent. He has now become British — in about a year.” Some others, regardless of how long they have lived abroad, remain true to their moorings. They make it a point not to pick up American or British accent, but to neutralize their speech with a desi drawl. They prefer to retain their good old Hyderabadi status, regardless of whether they are entrepreneurial NRIs or students of linguistics in universities abroad. Rahul Koda, a writer who has lived in New York for more than a decade, prefers to speak like a Hyderabadi. Question him about the reason, he cites the proverb “When in Rome, do as Romans do.” Summing up his philosophy, he adds: “When I’m in NY, I speak to the local people the way I think they will understand. Here I speak like a Hyderabadi for the same reason.” He points out that some people acquire an accent more easily than others. “Others put on an accent, because they think it’s cool. Either way, I don’t need that to sound cool.” There is another category of speakers in this world of acquired accents: people who have picked an accent without any noticeable connection. They are not
call center kids or Indians returning from abroad. They just acquire an accent from sundry sources: international television, movies, music and literature. They speak like foreigners even while conversing with fellow Indians. This flummoxes some desi people and puts off others. The need to sound polished, well-traveled, exotic, interesting or simply rich is very strong in some people with an acquired accent. Some tolerate it. Others may find such people snobbish. Aashish Raj Bidkilkar refused to join an institute after he found some people in it speak with what he calls a fake accent. An upcoming actor and a student of The Actor’s Studio, Aashish relates his experience: “I went to some other institute before this where the guy was talking to some people in a normal Hyderabadi accent. But, as soon as he saw me and heard me speak in English, he started talking with a sham accent. I felt offended. The lady at the reception counter had bad English and a fake accent, and the combination was unpleasant. Then I asked the guy to talk to me in Hindi.
Some people have what appears to be a no-man’s land accent - which sounds foreign, but nobody really knows from which part of the globe.
new friends, meet new people and start talking and behaving like them when we get close. Now my friends declare that I have lost my original accent. I was unaware of the transition. It was just natural.”
Nipun Kumar, operations head at Axiom, says that even for call center employees it’s unnecessary to put on an accent. “Even when they have to deal with foreign clients, I don’t encourage employees to put on an accent, because ours is what we call a neutralized accent. As long as we are clear and our pronunciations are correct, we are understood all over the world.”
Asked about her really strong American accent, one acquaintance said: “My brother is in Boston. That’s why I have an accent.” Such answers seem to silence critics. Presented with such examples, Rahul might think it’s because they want to sound ‘cool.’ Aashish draws a harsher conclusion: “It comes from an inferiority complex.” Nipun feels sad for people who put on accents.
A leading journalist, who does not want to be identified, says almost all of the so-called ‘Page 3’ celebs more often than not have a fake accent. “That adds to your ‘I’ve arrived’ status initially. Sadly, no one can fake an accent for long”, she says.
Whatever be the reason, ultimately what matters is the choice one makes. How does it matter whether your hair color is black or blonde? If it does matter, it should be to those who care for you.
So, what do people born and brought up in the city but with a foreign accent have to say?
With language, however, it has to be different. In a nation, where there are so many languages, each with multiple dialects, one finds a difference almost every 20 miles. So, having an accent may not be a bad idea at all.
Shivani, an MBA graduate in the city, says “I didn’t even realize that I had acquired an American accent. My friends started teasing me about it mercilessly and said that even my Telugu sounds foreign. Sometimes we make
- Anjali
NRI LANGUAGE 1. Tries to begin conversation with "In US ...." or "When I was in US..." 2. Takes the cabin luggage bag to short visits in India, tries to roll the bag on Indian Roads. 3. From the luggage bag, does not remove the stickers of Airways by which he traveled back to India, even after 4 months of arrival.
cover of a milk pocket. 14. Tries to figure all the prices in Dollars as far as possible (but deep down the heart multiplies by 43 times). 15. Says all the distances in Miles (Not in Kilo Meters), and counts in Millions. (Not in Lakhs) 16. Doesn't forget to crib about air pollution. Keeps cribbing every time he steps out.
4. Looks suspiciously towards Hotel/Dhaba food.
17. Says "Hey" instead of "Hi".
5. Pronounces "schedule" as "skejule", and "module" as "mojule".
Says "Yogurt" instead says "Curds".
6. Tries to complain about any thing in India as if he is experiencing it for the first time. 7. Tries to drink "Diet Coke", instead of Normal Coke. 8. Avoids eating more chili (hot) stuff.
Says "Cab" instead of "Taxi". Says "Candy" instead of "Chocolate". Says "Cookie" instead of "Biscuit". Says " Free Way " instead of "Highway".
9. Even after 2 months, complaints about "Jet Lag".
Says "got to go" instead of "Have to go".
10. Makes fun of Indian Standard Time and Indian Road Conditions.
Says "Oh" instead of "Zero", (for 704,says Seven Oh Four Instead of Seven Zero Four)
11. Writes date as MM/DD/YYYY, on watching traditional DD/MM/YYYY, says "Oh! British Style!!!!"
18. Sneezes and says 'Excuse me'.
12. When need to say Z (zed), never says Z (Zed), repeats "Zee" several times, if the other person unable to get, then says X, Y Zee(but never says Zed)
20. Drinks and carries mineral water and always speaks of health conscious.
13. Tries to see the % of fat on the
22. Use Nope for No and Yep for Yes.
19. Sprays deo such so that he doesn't need to take bath.
21. Tries to use credit card in road side hotel.
SEPTEMBER 2008
19
Relationship
POWER GIRLS’ AGENDA FOR MEN A woman today is a multi-faceted and multi-tasking wonder. She has learned to push the frontiers of human endurance, whether as a homemaker or as a spacewalker. Nevertheless, when she starts looking for a soul mate, she knows she has to make a very careful selection. This selection is neither Darwinian nor natural. It has to be cultivated and men have to measure up to her expectations. Hyderabad Josh takes a close look at some of the healthy choices the city's power girls make in this process.
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SEPTEMBER 2008
“S
ure God created man before creating a woman. But then you always make a rough draft before the final masterpiece," a wit
remarked.
A male chauvinist swaggered into a library and asked the librarian with a wink, "Where can I find the book entitled 'Man- the superior sex,' with a pronounced stress on the word 'superior.' The lady at the counter replied: "Fiction," and added with telling impact seconds later, "Obviously." The foregoing responses suggest the evolution of women. Today's career-oriented women have achieved far more than what their homemaker great grandmothers could have even imagined. Women have excelled in politics, space, sports, business or whatever. Name any field and there's always a woman who has topped it or at least stormed what may have been the male bastion. There is no field in which they have not left an indelible mark. The differences, if any, between a man and a woman, boil down to just physical attributes and some nuances of personality. Their appetites, desires, likes, dislikes, attire, goals, attitudes and achievements have already converged. Regardless of their achievements, women like to be put on a high pedestal. They are hard to please. Maybe they are hardwired for being wooed! While some men are natural magnets for women, there are others who are so repulsive that women flee from them with Olympic speed. This is especially true during the early stages of a relationship, when a woman is trying to gauge a man's personality. The basic traits for which women avoid some guys may or may not be OK per se, but women certainly don't want them. So, the man needs to correct his female-unfriendly behavior, whatever that may be. When a man is not overly emotional, but shares all his feelings, work-related issues and fruits of friendships with his woman, it gives her absolute assurance that she is his confidante. Confidence and independence are very sexy traits in a man, while insecurity and dependence are off-putting. Most women
look for a strong partner - someone they can lean on for support during emotional turmoil. This implies that if you happen to be leaning on her, especially in the early stages of a relationship, you may end up paying a heavy price. Some women tend to have relationships with so many insecurities that they would never want to touch yours with a bargepole. If you think your feelings can't be
kept on hold, focus on timing, which is crucial. Till then, keep your feelings to yourself.
You may be "my kinda man" for a sophisticated woman if you are:
Neat, clean and well-groomed
Confident and self-assured
Quick-witted and intelligent
Financially stable with high spending power
Humorous: don't guffaw while chewing paan
Chivalrous: open the door or close her umbrella. Willingly, mind you.
Physically fit with weight under control. No beer belly.
A good listener with an appetite for tittle-tattle.
Women don't like guys who behave in a predictable manner. They like novelty and a certain element of surprise. You should have it in you to impulsively take her out for a candlelight dinner. This means formulas won't always work. You need to do it differently most of the times, if not every time. Women don't like arrogant and boorish men. You wake up vitalized after a good night's sleep. You can't wait to see her all decked up in her best attire at office, complete with that cheery smile that she has reserved for you. When you walk in, it is perhaps essential for you to pack your "Good morning!" with a peck on her cheek -- in private, if the relationship is under wraps. In budding relationships, the real excitement begins in the initial stages. It could be flirting, secret e-mails, knowing smiles, amorous glances, sexual innuendoes, jokes or letters dripping with love. For a woman, some of these act as mental tonics after a hard day at office. Confidence holds the key to seduction. Its key elements are a sporty and well-lighted mind, dress sense, style and substance, listening skills and deep pockets. In order to attain 100% confidence, a man must learn to
SEPTEMBER 2008
21
Tips for a healthy relationship with your
You may be advised to take a walk, if you are:
22
A male chauvinist
Unhygienic or worse still with body odor
Using either cheap or heavy cologne
Daring enough to stare at other women, however beautiful they may be, in a discotheque or at a party
Wearing clothes that went out of style 10-20 years ago
A smoker or a heavy drinker
SEPTEMBER 2008
kinda woman
queen bee. What re a busy bee. So what? She is the Return messages: She knows you' n for granted. take g bein That will assure her that she is not she wants is a call back or an SMS. nascent to admit (don't dare if the relationship is too Plant kisses: Do it for no reason . Don't ever let your kisses are without any strings attached such adventurism). Make sure the most, top up a warm what is going to come next. At the kisses linger long enough to indicate end! keep her in good humor for days on kiss with some hand-holding. It will ding formality or your way she likes even if it means shed Dress up for her: Do dress the ld apply your mind. funky, there's no reason why you shou inhibitions. If she likes to see you ship nurtured over propriate word can wreck a relation Watch your words: One inap l and mental costs. several months at great physical, fisca
incorporate, monitor, adjust, adapt and balance these elements creatively. Any gaffe can land the man in trouble, as she might politely ask him to "Take a walk," suggesting, "You're not my type." Women love a man who has a certain level of refinement, elegance and etiquette. They will adore a macho if he is also knowledgeable about
the fine arts. They want their man to outgrow his job and seek more out of life, instead of just eating, sleeping and being a workhorse. No doubt, women today are strong, fervent, poised, independent and sexually liberated. They still value small courtesies and a chivalrous good turn every now and then.
Captivating crockery ejoicing over the morning cup of tea is as important as having a healthy breakfast. They both contribute immensely to a good day. Some discerning people, particularly the Japanese, exalt the whole process of making and consuming tea into an elaborate ceremony. It begins with washing the cups using a silk cloth and cleaning up the table with fine linen. The guest who is served the beverage in a tastefully decorated room contemplates on higher things in life with very small sips marking the efflux of time. Tea time then become a celebration, prayer or instant vacation. The cups into which the potion is religiously poured need to match the grace of the ritual.
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Coffee mug MRP: Rs.119/-
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23
Courtesy: Shoppers Stop
Coffee mug MRP: Rs.129/-
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Career choice American humorist and satirist Mark Twain said: "Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover." Young India is so dynamic and so rapidly evolving that by the time you blink there is something that you miss in the unfolding process of change. Let's consider some specifics relating to Gen Next to see what is in store for them, what you can expect by them and what is expected of them. India, which has just celebrated 60 years of Independence, has a staggering 51% of its population of 1.1 billion people under 25 and twothirds under 35. By 2020, the average age of an Indian is expected to be 29 years, compared with 37 for China and 48 for Japan. India's working age population is expected to touch 761 million within the next five years.
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SEPTEMBER 2008
Dreamz
Unlimited F
ortunately, uber-Hyderabadis are abreast of the latest developments on the career front. Most of them appear to clearly know what to take and what to reject in the juggernaut of changes pervading today's workplace. They have vivid dreams, which reflect what French poet and dramatist Victor Hugo said: "There is nothing like a dream to create the future." The future is one thing for the older generation and quite another for the Gen Next. The older gen may turn up their noses at the high-decibel music, metro-sexuality and eyebrow piercing. Still, they cannot help admiring the uncanny ability of today's teens to chalk out reasonable career plans, no matter whether they can pronounce the word 'career' properly. Many of today's striplings, hardly into their teens, have well-laid plans for what they believe will lead to a rosy future. They are a picture of confidence and know where they are headed. Shanti Sree, a communications major and a technical writer at TCS, marvels at how even preteens and teens are thorough with regard to their career planning. "My younger siblings and cousins are focused on their careers and know where they want to be in the years ahead. One of them wants to be a pilot and has found out how to go about it. She is barely a teenager and there is preciseness in her planning." Shanti believes that parental support
and the right frame of mind are important today, because there is ample scope to do whatever one chooses to in any field. Actually MNCs and BPO firms have multiplied job opportunities. Aside from getting jobs at high salaries, youths today can easily translate into reality their dreams of settling abroad. The methods are clear-cut and easy. It is different matter that finding a high-paying job early in life can sometimes throw cold water on plans for much more laudable achievements in life. Says an ex-student of St. Francis Degree College: "A friend of mine wanted to take the civil services examination after graduation, but in her second year she got a part-time job at a call center. She then became a full-timer and soon after that a Team Leader. That put paid to her IAS dreams. She started earning six figures by the time she graduated. It was a young crowd at work, great benefits and a whole lot of fun." Some colleges also provide placement services with an eye on MNCs. Companies like Google and Microsoft top the list of their priorities. There are students who join such companies soon after completing their final year. Some companies have started training students even while they are at college as a way to cut down on postemployment training costs. French writer Marcel Proust said: "If a little dreaming is dangerous, the cure for it is not to dream less, but to dream more - to dream all the time." Hyderabad has many such dreamers. For them, career planning is something in which parents, relations, friends, counselors and colleges need to be involved to some extent. With so much outside help and with so many opportunities out there, Gen Next have more than what they can chew. While a well-paying job is a priority for some youngsters, others prefer to learn computers. Learning computers is on the top of the agenda of those who have plans to go abroad. Computer courses attract thousands of students every year. No wonder, you find a plethora of institutes at prime locations like Ameerpet junction. At every nook and corner in Ameerpet, one will find centers offering 'Java,' 'Oracle' and other courses. The crowds of students milling around such centers are proof of the drive and enthusiasm of Hyderabadi youngsters. Some pursue their career dreams to the logical end. They epitomize the person American civil rights activist Jesse Jackson had in mind when he said: "No one should negotiate their dreams. Dreams must be free to flee and fly high. No government, no legislature, has a right to limit your dreams. You should never agree to surrender your dreams." Chandrakala Geddapu, a trainee at
Mysore for Infosys, says: "I wanted to get into the gaming industry. I'm a software developer, but people have high hopes on the booming gaming industry. After my Intermediate, I did electronics engineering. I'm here for experience. It's not too difficult to get into the gaming industry." She wants to test the waters and apply herself to what she really wants to do in a couple of years. "Gaming is challenging, creative and fun. I need to get out of the corporate set-up soon to thrive." For the older lot, life was not so simple. Laxmi, formerly a government employee and now a homemaker, says in those days there were few options. Times have changed. The 'government job,' a craze for the previous generation, is no longer coveted. The smart Gen Next in Hyderabad points to the NRIs coming back. 'The Good Life' is no longer just an American mantra. Urban India has so much to offer with a high standard of living. "My children chose their own paths, made their choices whether it was marriage or other decisions like buying a house, a car etc. We left it to them, though we were always there to guide them," Laxmi mentions. These days parents are not fully aware of job profiles that are on offer. Newer avenues have opened up and it's all about job-hopping to rise to the top. Slowly but surely the older generation is refraining from imposing antiquated ideas about finding a 'good' job. They are loosening their grip over their children on such matters. With clear goals and a sound plan, many Hyderabadi are moving confidently in the direction of their dream destination. In a way, they are doing precisely what American author and naturalist Henry David Thoreau recommended: "Dreams are the touchstones of our character‌ I have learned that if one
Listen to the Exhortation of the Dawn! Look to this Day! For it is Life, the very Life of Life. In its brief course lie all the Verities and Realities of your Existence. The Bliss of Growth, The Glory of Action, The Splendor of Beauty; For Yesterday is but a Dream, And Tomorrow is only a Vision; But Today well lived makes Every Yesterday a Dream of Happiness, And every Tomorrow a Vision of Hope. Look well therefore to this Day! Such is the Salutation of the Dawn! Classical Sanskrit poet and dramatist Kalidasa advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours. " Today's Hyderabadi youths have smartened up so much that they are well aware of the multitude of openings in store for them. In this information age, just some information and the right kind of attitude is enough for any individual to settle down to financial and personal bliss today. There is no need to slog it out for three decades over one thankless job in one single organization.
- Anjali SEPTEMBER 2008
25
Funny bone
No-nonsense Finding one’s métier in the dog-eat-dog world of cinema is not easy. One needs sagacity and doggedness to achieve goals. Naresh, who plays the mischief monger in Allari and has continued to spread joy among his countless fans through Ananadam, is one actor who has not allowed his director-dad’s image to overshadow him. He has sculpted his career through sheer hard work. His plate is full, but he never flinches from signing up every film that has a good theme. Money is not the sole criterion for this lad. He loves to spend money, provided it is from his own earnings.
Q. How is life Mr. Naresh? I am very very happy and busy with my booming career. Q. I used the word life. What about it? At this stage and age, I think my career is life. Did you ever expect to become so busy as an actor? Looks like your hands are full now. To me being busy and having one’s hands full is not all that important. But, being successful is very important. ‘Success' played hide and seek with me too at one point of time. Now, things have changed. After a series of hits, my career has zoomed. Q. You have seen nearly two dozen releases so far. How do you rate yourself? From my debut 'Allari' to my 9th film 'Nenu' it is just one phase. I had a lot of hopes on 'Nenu,' but its outcome was disappointing. For more than nine months I was in a shell. I could not face the mirror. I used to be tormented by the thought ‘Is this the end of my career? It was a disturbing phase of my
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SEPTEMBER 2008
Naresh Tollywood’s celebrated comedy hero looks tired and sleepdeprived, but becomes a dynamo of energy at the call of duty. The reason: nonstop 36-hour call-sheet for the shoot of the film 'Fitting Master' being directed by his father EVV. Having notched up nine releases during the current year, young Naresh is a picture of supreme confidence.
life. I like the good things in life, but I like to spend money from my earnings. So, I dreaded the thought of having to approach my parents for pocket money. At social gatherings, I used to feel inferior to others who held their head high. Now, I have tasted the sweet smell of success. There is a lot of happiness and prosperity. I am very confident and sure about my career.
matching that of Chiranjeevi garu.Even Presidents and Prime Ministers are among his fans and the only reason is 'comedy'. Comedy may sound simple, but it is more powerful and memorable than any other element. I feel immensely happy and proud to be in the ‘comedy hero’ slot. I don't know whether this comparison with Rajendra Prasad garu is OK, but I do feel great about it.
Q. Nowadays heroes are working only for one or two films per year. You are doing a number of films simultaneously. Why it is so?
Q. Considering the number of films you are doing simultaneously and the safety factor that producers see in having you on board, people draw a parallel between you and super star Krishna garu. What do you say?
Only at this age I can work round the clock. Moreover, there is a lot of demand for the kind films that I do. Comedy is the best slot. It is also the safest. The best part is that I have been typecast in that genre. Q. Mr. Naresh some cine enthusiasts suggest that you are replacing Dr. Rajendra Prasad. What’s your opinion? There can be no comparison between versatile Dr. Rajendra Prasad and budding Naresh. I can only say that I am lucky to have been placed in the domain where he excels. Rajendra Prasad garu has fan following
Of course, a hero doing a number of films simultaneously is a sign of prosperity, particularly in the early days of his career. It is said that Krishna garu worked round the clock. I read somewhere that the camera rolled even when he was sleeping so as to can his sleeping shots! I too want to work hard like that. I love to be in the unit working all the time. The naps I take between the whiles are enough for me. In that respect I prefer to follow the working pattern of Krishna garu and be the producer’s hero.
Assassinating our character and career is fun for the media. What a pity ! What a shame! -Allari Naresh
pics by M.C. Shekhar
It is not easy to find heroines who are suitable for the second layer of heroes. Even if we spot some, people in the industry spoil their minds. In the past, heroines like Soundarya, Ramyakrishna and Simran worked even with budding heroes. But now babes from Bollywood are pitching only for action heroes.
Q. To emulate Krishna garu you need to work on good themes. How do you go about the task of selecting good themes? Yes! That’s very important. I too focus on good themes. I can do more only when I get a variety of themes. I therefore listen to all fresh writers. But, nowadays many young successful writers are getting into direction. We need good writers. Q. The grapevine has it that most of the heroines are not willing to pair with you? Is it true? If yes, why is it so? Yes... of course! In general, there is a scarcity of heroines in Tollywood. Particularly, it is not easy to find heroines who are suitable for the second layer of heroes. Even if we spot some, people in the industry spoil their minds. In the past, heroines like Soundarya, Ramyakrishna and Simran worked even with budding heroes. But nowadays ‘babes from Bollywood’ are pitching only for action heroes. So, like so many other heroes I am a victim of awful scarcity of heroines. Action heroes are doing only one or two films per year, whereas I am doing nearly ten. Therefore, I need at least five or six new heroines per year. This is a pathetic situation. Q. You started your career with a film that was made with a limited budget of Rs 80 lakh. But now a film like that costs at least about Rs 4 crores. Is it healthy? My first film 'Allari' was somewhat an experiment, considering the subject and the budget. Now, the going price for such a film is Rs. 3 to Rs. 3 ½ crores and it is safe on me. I will take every possible care not to cross this limit. Q. What about your remuneration? My remuneration is always reasonable. I take money, but I won't take undue advantage of the producer. Shaping a good career is important and money has nothing to do with that. To me, money is a secondary need. Q. Do you listen to gossip? You are frequently linked to certain heroines. I don't know how and why scribes misuse their pen and paper like that. They link me to all the heroines with whom I happen to be working. These dirty writings create problems in the family. In fact, at one point of time my mother stopped talking to me! It was only after I took the heroines concerned to my mother along with their boyfriends that she relented. I and my family members are victims of these vicious writings. When I traced some of the writers who wrote nonsense, they had the cheek to tell me that it was all just for fun and advised me not to take the insinuations seriously. So, I guess assassinating our character and career is fun for the media. What a pity! What a shame!
Q. You seem to be interested in directing. When will you handle the megaphone? An actor turning to direction is a rare experience. It is an experiment that I want to do on myself. I don't want to experiment on others. Since my hands are full as an actor, I want to venture into direction only after five years. Probably I will become a ‘producer-director ' in 2013. I dream of running a big production company like Yash Raj films. Q. How many films have you completed so far? I have witnessed 25 releases so far. Three more films are slated for release in 2008: 'Blade Babjee,' 'Dongala Bandi' and 'Fitting Master.' With these films, it will be a total of nine in 2008.
Probably I will become a producerdirector in 2013. I dream of running a big production company like Yash Raj films.
Q. Which of the 25 releases is your best? The first one, 'Allari,' as it gave me a chance to give the other ‘bests’.
- Prabhu
NARESH AWARDS Best director: Ravibabu Best producer: Rambabu and Vijaya Prasad Best music director: Previously, Illaya Raja. Now, Kamalakar. Best co-artiste to work with: Ali and Kovai Sarala Best heroine: Sada and Gajala. Best cinematographer: Arun and Siva. Best film personality: Rama Naidu and EVV Satyanarayana
SEPTEMBER 2008
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Pukka Hyderabadi
Delicacy par excellence
B
iryani is one of the choicest delicacies in India. A delectable dish made with spices, rice (usually basmati) and meat/vegetables, it is a craze among people of all ages. Historically, biryani is one dish that benefited immensely from the influence of various cultures under successive rulers. The liberal use of spices and condiments makes biryani irresistible. For the non-vegetarian variant, the main ingredient that accompanies the spices is meat -- beef, chicken, goat, lamb, or shrimp. The vegetable variant has beans, carrots, potatoes, etc. The commonly used spices are cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, bay leaves, coriander and mint leaves. Ghee, ginger, onions, garlic and yoghurt enhance the taste of biryani. The premium varieties include saffron too. Veg biryani is usually served with dahi chutney or raita, kurma or curry. Although there are umpteen varieties of biryani, many people consider the Hyderabadi biryani, particularly the non-vegetarian variant, to be superior to other types because of its distinct taste. The Virani Biryani has traces of southern flavors. The Nizams' kitchen used to prepare nearly 50 types of Hyderabadi Biryani, using fish, quail, shrimp, deer and hare etc. Other popular forms of biryani include Awadhi biryani and Malabar chicken biryani (popular in Kerala). The Lucknow biryani is popular among those who like Mughlai dishes. Available round the year in most city hotels, the Hyderabad biryani is a craze among local people and tourists. Gourmets, however, crown Bawarchi as the 'Badshah of Biryani.' Located near the RTC Cross Roads, Bawarchi specializes in biryani. Bawarchi offers the best fare in terms of quality, quantity and taste of food items, which include chicken curry, mutton curry, prawn and fish items. Patrons exult in savoring its Kadai Veg, Tandoori Chicken, Tangdi Kabab and other yummy dishes. These delectable delicacies are served in a cozy and royal ambience, which is replete with exquisite interiors. Warm hospitality is the forte of Bawarchi, making dining an unforgettable experience.
Youth enjoying Biryani at Bawarchi 22
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Hyderabadi biryani Sposts
Pub Culture
"Electricity is actually made up of extremely tiny particles called electrons that you cannot see with the naked eye unless you have been drinking."
T
his rather illuminating quote sums up the spirit that pervades in the hot and happening pubs of Hyderabad. Only a person of the caliber of Omar Khayam can pay a fitting tribute to some of the pubs with tempting offers. The creeping "pub culture" has caught on, giving yet another dimension to the metropolis-in-the-making. Pubs like Liquids, Touch, Bottles and Chimneys, F-Bar, 10 Downing, Zouk, Poison and the like have the ambience you need for getting into the right mood. Step in and you are on cloud nine. These are perfect places for those who want masti without limits. Today's pubs are all about high energy and pitch. Filled with yuppies, techies, the bold and the beautiful, the rich and the famous as well as social butterflies, each of these pubs is celebrated for its convivial gatherings and electrifying atmosphere. These are verily hotspots for P3 people as well as the young and trendy. The hip hop generation is actually making a cultural statement, which is in and occasionally branded. The ambience in most of these pubs is heady enough to transport one to the higher realms of fantasy even without drowning a draught. While some embrace the euphoric atmosphere, others mingle with style icons out to grab attention. So, these are hot spots where fashion gurus can check out what's in and what's out in just one sweeping look. Pub etiquette demands that uptown guys wear black shoes only. It is important to hold your head high and maintain certain decorum and decency. The bartender will be too happy to excite you with exotic cocktails and mocktails. If you are lucky enough, he may put his gymnastic skills to work and maybe prove
to be a cut above Tom Cruise in Cocktail. In any case, you can rest assured that you are the most important guest for the evening. So, just relax! Let your hair down and have a blast. According to the manager at Liquids, an award winning pub, people have a terrific sense of music. Keeping aside debates of culture vultures, the fact remains that the bubblegum crowds that frequent at sundown primarily to unwind have high doses of fun 'n' frenzy after a hard day at work. While some go for music, others prefer the 'highs' to fight the day's lows. 10 Downing Street is British only in colonial essence, for it does not shut out the rest of the world. There are Karaoke nights, ladies nights, rock music nights et al to rev up your spirits. The F-Bar is frequented by most of the actors on the sets like Melkote as well as newcomers. Kausalya, Sonu, Roopa Kaur, Mohini Patel, Sandra and Amir are among them. Some wannabes are also in tow usually. Those who haunt the rocking nights at premium pubs are celebs like Trisha, Sneha, Kaveri, Rajah, Tarun, Allu Arjun, Ravi Teja, Puri Jagannath, Chakri and Ram. At Firangi Paani, femme fiesta is on every Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursdays with groovy retro, hip hop & commercial house tracks with DJ Christy & DJ Rocky! Check out for the happy hours at each
pub and just go and rock! Vintage Mondays coupled with good old vintage music & discounts equal to your age at 10 D. Can you beat that! Thundering Tuesdays are on at 10D with DJ Blackjack! If you are all set to gulp down cocktail after cocktail, go ahead and fill your tummy with yummies and have a decadent time. Who wouldn't want to be svelte, suave and sexy while enjoying sinful cocktails like tequila sunrise, bubbly mary, bellini, gin and tonic, vodka gimlet, etc. There is a misconception that people haunt pubs to get drunk. Most people go for a relaxed evening, as pubs offer packages with special chills, thrills and frills. All the shakers, stirrers and movers get groovy and hit the dance floor. They indulge in jigs and swigs. Liquor is a priority, but entertainment takes the cake. Talking about theme parties that are hosted on and off, there were MIB (Men in Black) nights at one time at 10 Downing that saw men dressed in black hold cocktails that were black. There is also a Barbie Doll Night at Liquids on Saturdays for night queens. The lights dazzle you and the music is at its loudest. The idea is to have your adrenalin pumping in an electrifying atmosphere. When you are inside a pub, no one dares to talk about avoiding booze. If you can't resist the temptation, just gulp down to glory the heady concoctions. Let's hope you will not wake up the next morning with a hangover. Until then, Cheers!
- Lasya
Flying colors
“Josh!
Josh!
Josh!” So exclaimed Chief Minister Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy thrice in a trice, each time with a broad smile on his face, as he entered the conference hall of his camp office at Somajiguda on August 7th to launch “HYDERABAD JOSH,” a lifestyle magazine that has put vim and verve in the citizens’ workaday life. The simple and almost private launch function raised many eyebrows in media and political circles, as it brought on one platform noted film director Dasari Narayana Rao and Dr. Rajasekhara Reddy. Even the manner in which the two took the center-stage did not go unnoticed. Dr. Dasari, the guest of honour, had arrived a little earlier than the scheduled start time and was seated in the guest room. Dr. Reddy arrived close to the appointed time and made it a point to go straight to the room where Dr. Dasari was waiting. The two then hugged with palpable enthusiasm. In fact, their tight embrace suggested that it was not photo op, but a genuine exchange of warm feelings. Dasari has had a stint as an editor of a Telugu daily and Dr. Reddy’s son recently launched a Telugu daily and plans to establish a TV channel as well. Dr. Dasari unveiled the logo of Hyderabad Josh and the Chief Minister handed over the first copy of the inaugural issue to Mr. Dasari. Earlier, the Chief Minister flipped through what has been billed as “the most glossy magazine of Hyderabad. While browsing through it, the Chief Minister remarked:“hmm ‘films,’ ‘fashions,’ ‘lifestyle… good fare.” LIONS: Chief Minister Rajasekhara Reddy and Dasari in high spirits
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said: “The magazine looks very good.” He said that the magazine was appropriate for the fast-growing city. He hoped that it would feature positive stories. “It is significant that the magazine is being launched in the presence of Dr. Dasari Narayana Rao,” the Chief Minister observed. Taking a trip down memory lane, Dr. Dasari conceded that though he had made it big in films, he did burn his fingers as a media personality. “What I earned there (in films), I lost here (in media),” he remarked in a lighter vein. Recalling the publications he launched initially in Chennai (Cine Prapancham) and later in Andhra Pradesh (Udayam), Dr. Dasari said that at heart he still had very high regard for the profession.
MEDIA MATTERS: Chief Minister Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy and Dr.Dasari Narayana Rao at the launch of Hyderabad Josh
Dr. Dasari observed: “The Chief Minister’s presence at the launch of a magazine brought out by a ‘small’ journalist is indicative of the respect he has for the press.” He said “Hyderabad Josh is the need of the hour.” Mentioning that lifestyle magazines were popular in Mumbai, Kolkata and other metros, Dr. Dasari remarked that in general youth were interested in such magazines.
Dr. Dasari hailed the standards of journalism exhibited by Mohan Goteti, the editor and publisher of Hyderabad Josh, who has won Nandi award twice for being the best film critic. Pointing out that he knew Mohan Goteti for more than two decades, Dr. Dasari said: “He is an extraordinary journalist. I know with what fidelity he discharged his functions as a film critic. A critic’s work should be an eye-opener and not something that reddens people’s eyes.” S.B.S.N. Raju, COO, Sowjanya Subba Rao, GM, R.Murali, Associate Editor, A.Prabhu, features writer, D.S.Ram, Admin Manager and Malli, M.C. Shekhar Photographers were also present at the launch.
Hyderabad Josh contains diverse elements like cinema, lifestyle, fashions, art and culture. Dasari and Dr. YSR posing with the magazine. Others in the picture (from right) S.B.S.N. Raju, Mohan Goteti and Sowjanya Subba Rao
Flanked by the Chief Minister, Dasari releases the logo of Hyderabad Josh
Dasari shares something interesting with YSR
Flipping through the newest magazine that best mirrors Hyderabad Mohan Goteti helps the Chief Minister unwrap the first copy of the magazine
The Chief Minister discussing the content with the editor Taking a sweeping look at the publication
The Chief Minister highlights the need for magazines like Hyderabad Josh
YSR acknowledging the significance of Dasari's presence at the launch
Dasari hails the quality of Hyderabad Josh
All eyes on Hyderabad Josh
Dasari expresses his best wishes for the magazine
YSR and Dasari share lighter moments Subba Rao honoring the Chief Minister
S.B.S.N. Raju honoring the Chief Minister, as Dasari looks on Minister Sabita Indra Reddy poses with the magazine and its editor
All smiles
YSR congratulating Mohan Goteti for launching a city-oriented magazine
Bidding goodbye
Reflections
A new era in beauty care M
IRRORS, a premium spa and salon for men and women, has now transformed into a worldclass facility that is spread over three floors. Actress Illeana lighted a lamp on the occasion, while Master Rama Naidu, grandson of Dr. D. Rama Naidu, inaugurated the newlook MIRRORS.
Master Rama Naidu inaugurating the refurbished MIRRORS. Dr. D. Rama Naidu and K Raghavendra Rao were present
Located amidst enchanting verdure in Jubilee Hills, MIRRORS has exotic interiors that are luxuriously furnished. There is no parallel to its ergonomically designed seating and cutting-edge beauty care equipment. Inside aesthetically appealing compartments, clients get to know refinements in the art of relaxation, healing and nourishment. Thanks to its talent pool, which includes India's outstanding beauty care experts and technicians, MIRRORS today offers exclusive high-end spa and salon services that reflect the best of Indian, Western and Eastern practices. Always the first choice among crème-de-lacrème in the city, MIRRORS offers the ultimate in ambience, luxury, style and customer satisfaction. In its cozy rooms, customers get pampered and caressed in multiple ways. The overall ambience in which it provides services is in itself a global benchmark for spa design, given the way in which energy and elements have been seamlessly combined. Trendy fashions are delivered in a soothing atmosphere. It has a full complement of stylists and designers. A one-stop destination for the latest in hair styles, it uses latest colour and chemical technologies so as to give the client the best in hair & body care, fashions and comfort. At MIRRORS, pedicure and manicures work wonders. The accent is on hygiene and the use of environment friendly material for all services. Dermatologists render special services as part of skin and hair therapies. MIRRORS offers a rich variety of packs and special techniques with world class certified materials.
Actress IIleana and Vijayalakshmi lighting the lamp at the inaugural ceremony 38
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The personnel at MIRRORS are specially trained in makeup areas such as bridal makeup, evening party make-up, fashion and special party trendy makeup. Tattooing is a sophisticated art and MIRRORS has artists who know their job. Piercing technologies have been perfected at MIRRORS, as they are handled by medically trained people.
Minister Mukesh Goud greets Vijayalakshmi, as actress Kavita looks on
R.P. Patnaik and Sunil catching up with each other, as host Praveen looks on
Considering the importance of ancient relaxation methods, MIRRORS has introduced ThaiReflexology, Thai-massage and other methods for trigger point massage to alleviate pain. Sports massage will soon be added to its list of services.
Charming Ileana & pleasant Vijayalakshmi
With all this, MIRRORS has put Hyderabad on par with world-class cities in matters of fashions and body and beauty care, thanks to its professional team. According to Vijayalakshmi, its proud owner, the new-look MIRRORS heralds "a new era in beauty care." She herself has undergone training in India and abroad under many reputed institutions. Vijayalakshmi now envisions MIRRORS as the perfect spa and salon for those with refined tastes. MIRRORS' forte, she says, is providing total comfort, scientific service and complete client satisfaction. One visit to this beautiful place is enough to gauge the missionary zeal with which she has been building MIRRORS brick by brick.
Vijayalakshmi with Jayasudha SEPTEMBER 2008
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Healing touch
Walking the talk S
ave a Child’s Heart (SACH), a foundation launched by the Apollo group in 2003, has so far touched the lives of 50,000 children with various heart conditions. As part of efforts to raise funds for SACH, a spectacular fashion show was organized at Novotel in the third week of August. Costumes designed by Tarun Tahilani were showcased mostly by Mumbai-based models. His creations included traditional, official, classic and modern attires. In tune with the concept of positive thinking, which is a surefire success mantra, the Apollo group launched “B +ve,” a health and lifestyle magazine, on the occasion. Tarun with models who showcased his creations
Upasana Kamineni (second from left), publisher of B+ve at the magazine launch
Dazzling designs 40
SEPTEMBER 2008
Designer Tarun Tahilani
more pics >>>
more pics >>
Right living
Let your diet be
FRUITful G
ood health is essential for leading an active life. Eating a balanced diet is vital for good health. A balanced diet consists of the right amounts of foods from all major food groups viz. proteins, carbohydrates, fruits & vegetables, dairy as well as fats & sugars. These food groups contain nutrients that are essential for growth, energy and body maintenance. A calorie is a unit of energy that measures how much energy food provides to the body. The body needs calories to function properly. The calories in food come mainly from carbohydrates, proteins and fats. Most foods contain carbohydrates-- simple or complex. Simple carbohydrates come from fruits, milk products and table sugar, while complex carbohydrates come from whole grain breads and cereals, starchy vegetables and legumes. Many foods contain protein. Protein builds up, maintains, and replaces the tissues in your body. Your body uses protein to make molecules that have specific jobs to perform. Fats are nutrients in food that the body uses to build nerve tissue and hormones. Vitamins and minerals boost the immune system; support normal growth and development, and help cells and organs do their jobs. Minerals come from the earth or water. Your body needs large amounts of certain minerals, such as calcium, to grow and stay healthy. Every day you need very small amounts of other minerals like chromium, copper, iodine, iron, selenium and zinc, which are called trace minerals. Fiber also is important for the human body. Fiber signifies the parts of fruits and vegetables that cannot be digested. It is also called bulk or roughage. Fiber itself adds no calories, but fiber-rich foods are beneficial because they are filling and discourage overeating. High intake of fiber, coupled with drinking adequate fluids, helps move food through the digestive system. All this explains why the human body requires a variety of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and trace elements. In order to optimize health benefits, it is necessary to eat a variety of fresh organic fruits, which furnish our body with essential nutrients.
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Benefits of eating a fruit-rich diet ☺ Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables as part of an overall healthy diet helps ☺ Reduce risk of stroke, cardiovascular diseases, Type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, developing kidney stones
☺ Diets rich in potassium may help maintain healthy blood pressure. Fruit sources of potassium include bananas, prunes and prune juice, dried peaches and apricots, honeydew melon, and orange juice.
☺ Most fruits are naturally low in fat, sodium, and calories. None has cholesterol.
☺ Dietary fiber from fruits, as part of an overall healthy diet, helps reduce blood cholesterol levels and may lower risk of heart disease. Fiber is important for proper bowel function. It helps reduce constipation. Fibercontaining foods such as fruits help provide a feeling of fullness with fewer calories. Whole or cut-up fruits are good sources of dietary fiber, but fruit juices contain little or no fiber.
☺ Fruits are important sources of many nutrients, including potassium, dietary fiber, vitamin C, and folate (folic acid).
☺ Vitamin C is important for growth and repair of all body tissues, helps heal cuts and wounds, and keeps teeth and gums healthy.
☺ Protect against certain cancers, such as mouth, stomach and colon-rectal ☺
Decrease bone loss
☺ Minimize calorific intake, as fruits are low in calories
Fruits contain 90-95% water, which have a diuretic effect on the body and help eliminate the toxins and nitrogenous wastes from the body. Most of the fruits are low in sodium and high in potassium - an important mineral that helps maintain normal blood pressure and heart function. Apples are an excellent source of fiber. The fiber present in fruit has a laxative effect on the body and thus helps relieve constipation. It also gives a feeling of satiety by adding bulk to the diet, which is beneficial in conditions like diabetes mellitus, heart diseases and obesity. Resveratrol (found in red grapes) and anthocyanin (found in cherries, blueberries, kiwi, plums and blackberries) help reduce the risk of cancer and heart diseases. Guava, oranges, papaya and Indian gooseberry are very good sources for vitamin C, an antioxidant. Mangoes and papaya are excellent sources of beta carotene. Beta carotene and lycopene from apricots take care of the heart health by preventing oxidation of LDL cholesterol. Bananas are a very good source of potassium, vitamin B, vitamin C, manganese and dietary fiber. Fruits should be eaten on an empty stomach, for it plays a major role in detoxifying your system. Go ahead, pick a fruit and enjoy the fruits of good health. Happy living!
SEPTEMBER 2008
- Lasya 45
Celebration
La Celeb goes to the next level Hyderabad is now home to a unique KIDS section of La Celeb, which has carved a niche for itself in the youth-oriented branded apparel segment. As part of the store's first anniversary celebrations, noted director K. Vishwanath launched the KIDS section, which now has stunning collections of kurta-pajamas, designer suitings and sherwanis for kids aged 1-5. Located on Road 12 in Banjara Hills, La Celeb, an apparel retail chain established by Tusker Textile Pvt. Ltd, has made a mark in the city with its incredible range of ready-to-wear clothes for men, women and children. The store also sells sarees, dressmaterials, jewellery, showpieces, fashion accessories and footwear.
MEN'S SHERWANI fabric: brocade work: zardosi suitable for weddings and traditional wear MRP: Rs.17,995/WOMEN'S WEAR (GHAGRA) material: ghagra with contrast maroon blouse work: zardosi suitable for: weddings & traditional wear MRP: Rs.25,000/-
PAGDI Ranges from Rs.1,000-5,000/-
BANGLES available from Rs.75-2,000/per dozen
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Models:shweta and srikant
Sailaja Reddy (Owner, La celeb) extolled the virtues of gold zari sarees for wedding. She said that the store had many light varieties, including those with intricate designs.
JEWELLERY SET: available from Rs.1,400 - 14,000/-
WOMEN'S WEAR Material: Overall black saree with red & green comby Work: Zari gold includes interlock weaving
KIDS SECTION Designed sherwanis available for kids from 1yr to 5yr old kids MRP.Rs.1500 - 3000/-
pics by M.C. Shekhar
Vishwanath praised Sailaja Reddy, the owner of the store, for the stunning collections, terming them unique and graceful. Flashing back to his youth, Vishwanath said that during the time of his marriage the choices were limited when it came to designer suits. In contrast, today there were so many varieties that making a choice was difficult. “I feel like wearing them, though not for marriage,�he remarked. He drew a parallel between the beauty of the store and that of its owner.
Pranitha Reddy, MD of La Celeb, said the store had a wide range of sarees, including Benaras, Kanchivaram, Uppada, Rajkot Patola, Pochampalli, georgettes, printed crepes, chiffons, tanchoi, bandini sarees; salwar kameez , kurtis, western wear and Anarkali suits as well as lingerie for women of all ages.
MEN'S SHERWANI Material: Brocade in contrast with chudidhar & silk stole Work: Kundhan antique zardosi
MOJRA SHOE Ranges from Rs.595/Rs.2,500/CLUTCHES Range from Rs.2,000-10,000/-
SEPTEMBER 2008
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Trends
Passion for fashion
Bag polyurethane shoulder bag colour: black MRP: Rs.2,995/-
Satya Paul’s creations have become a must in the wardrobes of Hyderabad’s elite. The shoulder bags and clutch purses make a complete fashion statement.
Bag polyurethane shoulder bag colour: gold MRP: Rs.2,995/-
Polysequin button purse colour: gold MRP: Rs.1,995/-
Bag polyurethane shoulder bag colour: purple MRP: Rs.2,995/-
Polysequin button purse colour: silver MRP: Rs.1,995/-
Bag polyurethane shoulder bag colour:silver MRP: Rs.2,995/-
Bag polyurethane shoulder bag colour: navy blue MRP: Rs.2,495/-
Courtesy : Shopperstop Pics by : M.C. Shekhar
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Glimpses Almost Famous
A
mrita Rao's Telugu movie stint might not have been a huge success, but even though Athidi didn't set the BO on fire, the petite lady was liked. Her younger sister was approached for a role in a movie starring Tarun. The not-yetfamous Aditi Rao settled for no less than a five star accommodation and first class flight tickets for herself and her mother. At the trail photo shoot, Aditi refused to get rid of her side-parted hairstyle even when the director requested her to. Needless to say, she lost out on the role and is again on the lookout for a chance. But this time will she part with her unyielding attitude? Big sis Amrita meanwhile has no Telugu roles in the pipeline with Mahadev Ka Sajjanpur in Hindi as her next release.
Badshah's Latest Begum Kinng Kumar
S
ingh is Kinng might not have gotten great reviews from say, The New York Times or from serious film reviewers. But it as managed to rake in the big bucks like nothing else this season, beating record after record. Akshay Kumar seems to have perfected a formula for hitting the bulls-eye with his movies, and probably has a 'hit movie' radar by now-a sense of whether the flick will click when he sees the script itself.
A
fter Deepika Padukone in Om Shanti Om, the lucky newcomer to star alongside King Khan is Anushka Sharma, a 5'9" ramp and advert model. Also a Benguluru Babe and a model like Padukone, this 18 year old plays a Punjabi girl, Simran in Aditya Chopra's Rab Ne Banayi Jodi. Chopra is wielding the megaphone after a long time and seems intent on making another DDLJ-like romance while SRK's leading ladies seem to get younger and taller by the day.
With all the hype and hoopla prerelease, blockbusterish music, a hit jodi with sizzling Kat Kaif as his arm candy and last but not the least, a turban on his head, he surely seems to charm the Desi audiences world over. And those who work with him can't stop raving about what a gentleman and a professional he is. Here's to Akshay Kinng‌err, Kumar.
Big Biceps, Bigger Dil
S
alman Khan is known as much for his bratty tantrums as he is known for his generosity. Bollywood's Bad Boy might refuse to grow up, but he seems to have the sensitivity of a child too. So when 13 year old conjoined twins Saba and Farah went on a hunger strike demanding an appearance on Khan's hit TV show Dus Ka Dum and wanting to tie the star a Rakhi, he invited them right away. The happy Siamese twins who are used to
unfulfilled promises (Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi promised to donate $1 million for their separation surgery but didn't follow up on his word) were excited to tie their favorite star a Rakhi. Salman also promised to get them on the show on Sony that overtook SRK's Indian version of Are You Smarter than a Fifth Grader, Kya Aap Panchvi Paas Se Teez Hai. Looks like the muscled Khan made two more fans for life. SEPTEMBER 2008
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New life
Made for each other P
rashanth Kuteer, a beautiful complex on Road No. 10 in Banjara Hills, is a preferred spot for corporate bigwigs and film stars looking for privacy to unwind every now and then. This quaint kuteer has a cozy guesthouse with all facilities and a multi-cuisine restaurant that offers traditional food items and other delectable delicacies. Its owner Mr. D.V.N. Muralidhar and his wife Vijayalakshmi recently performed the marriage of their elder daughter Amulya with Rakesh at Hotel Marriot on August 21st. The glitterati of the city attended the marriage. Film-star-turned politician Chiranjeevi’s wife Surekha and DGP Yadav were among the prominent guests who graced the occasion.
Just married
It’s time to knot
Mr. & Mrs. Muralidhar bless their Daughter & son - in - law
DGP Yadav blesses the new couple
Ms Surekha wishes the wedding couple
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Glitterati
Bridal Collection
S
electing an item of bridal jewellery is a demanding task. Every ornament has to suit the occasion, measure up to the bride's tastes and impress the in-laws. Preferably, the gold and silver creations, stone inlay work and the overall appearance of the gems should be distinctively superior to the ornaments normally worn by guests. Only then will the bridal jewellery become a hot topic of discussion in the marriage hall. The hosts too love such discussions. At the end of the day, the glitter of the jewels should complement the beauty of the bride if one is looking for a perfect combination.
Pics by : M.C. Shekhar
"Gehna," a three-day exhibition of bridal jewellery collection held at Taj Krishna in August, was the one-stop source of the best of jewels that a bride can wear in a fairyland wedding. Actress Archana, who loves to leave men sleepless for days on end by her overpowering presence on the screen, inaugurated the exhibition, which featured bangles, earrings, bracelets, bangles, anklets, crowns, waist belt etc. Families of marriage parties found it easy to make the right selection at the eleventh hour. Parents of nubile girls could make purchases in a leisurely manner ahead of the D-Day.
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Go green
Green-fingered gentry Greenery is soothing, whether it is outdoor or indoor. With green lungs becoming a luxury in urban areas, the least urbanites can do is to have a garden at home. Whether it is the roof garden or one in the backyard, these divine spaces, if cultivated assiduously, are bound to fill our lives with the peace of Nature
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eople with green fingers naturally consider their yards and home gardens as extensions of their personalities. All of us may not be talented like the greenfingered gentry. But we do have access to a nursery that can help change our lives. At a nursery, we can see rows and rows of inviting potted shrubs. They tempt us with fullcolor glamour shots of the stunning blossoms they promise to produce in the seasons to come. Selecting a beauty from this bevy of beautiful home plants may seem like an impossible task. However, if you do your homework and if you are willing to work up a little sweat, plants at your home will become the talk of the town. Aside from sanctuary and privacy, we look for some fresh air. Plants can help create 'living walls,' which can be especially important in neighborhoods where homes, including flats, are very close to one another. Initially, decide on the broad contours of your home garden. After all, budget plays a crucial role in deciding what type of a home garden or nursery you want at home. Once you determine the ideal composition, you need to answer some basic queries. Do you want a garden with a living fence that assures you year-round privacy or just seasonal screening? How much maintenance can you manage? Do you want a mixture of plants with multi-season interest (flowers, changing foliage, winter color, fruit), a formal clipped hedge for that sophisticated garden look and feel, or potted plants for portable screening? What is your minimum height
requirement?
FIRST STEP
THE RIGHT SHRUB
We often spend absurd sums of money on plants and then don't take time or have the knowledge to correctly plant them. The first step in planting is critical for long-term success and survivability of the sapling.
Ahead of visiting a nursery, determine what kind of shrub is ideal for your garden and whether you want it to be indoor or outdoor. Select a plant that will grow into the space provided, instead of settling down for the one that has potential to outgrow the allotted area. Remember that initially the shrub may look too small for the home garden. Soon its branches will grow outwards and upwards to fill all of the available space. After short-listing shrubs of the right sizes, pick the ones that are proven to grow best in the conditions of your home or yard. It is always better to spend some time with nursery experts on these matters, instead of going by trial and error methods.
ASSESS Evaluate the area in terms of dimensions, sun and shade exposure, soil type, drainage and proximity to underground features such as water lines. Talk to your neighbors. Let them know about your plans to plant and make sure the project works for them as well. Once you are clear about the site -- indoor or outdoor -- you need to identify the plants that will thrive there and meet all your needs. Consult a horticulture or nursery expert. If you are looking for immediate results, only a fence or substantial investment in mature plants and landscaping will do the trick. Mixed plantings of evergreen and deciduous shrubs will provide interest in many seasons.
Plants that are grown in containers (especially those with tightly wound root balls) should be loosened and the soil shaken off the roots prior to planting. Only the root of the plant needs to be in contact with the soil in which it will be growing. Nursery growing mixes are generally bark based. They are formulated to dry out quickly. Most nurseries irrigate 1-3 times daily. If the soil isn't completely dry after irrigation, the plant will drown. When planted with the soil ball intact, the roots may start withering in just a couple of days, though the surrounding native soil may appear damp for weeks. Plants then could be dead within a week. Before planting, give the shrub a good, long drink of water. Let it soak up the water for a few hours or even overnight before it is removed from the container. Digging the right kind of hole is central to ensuring the health of your plant. Be generous, as the hole should be twice as wide as it is deep, and deep enough to accommodate the roots of the shrub. After all this, you have a right to watch your home garden brighten up right in front of your eyes with fancy foliage and flowers in a riot of colors.
- Lasya
Dress sense
Turkish tempest
Turkish tempest swept NIFTians in Hyderabad. A 12-member delegation from Turkey, comprising students and faculty members, who were on a 15-day assignment in the city, showcased breathtaking attires in a special fashion show in August. NIFT director, Mr. K.P. Santosh Kumar, extolled the organizers of the show and congratulated the team on their spectacular performance. The team, which worked round the clock during the last four days of their assignment, gave glimpses of outfits that are a rage in their homeland. A few days later, NIFTians had a blast at the "Freshers' Day," grooving to party music.
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Irresistible
Endless Delight C
andies and chocolates are an endless source of delight right from childhood to second childhood. Scientists now say some of the ingredients in chocolates and candies help improve our mood. Candy was made even in 3000 B.C. To make a candy, all one needs to do is to dissolve sugar in hot water! The hotter the water temperature, the harder the candy becomes. Human taste buds have required multiple flavors and ingredients. Before the advent of candy, honeycomb and sugar cane satisfied the sweet tooth. Honey was a key ingredient used in marshmallow candies enjoyed by ancient Egyptians. In the Middle Ages, sweets were made with dissolved sugar and spices, but, as sugar was very expensive, only the affluent could afford the confection. Archeological evidence indicates that the ancient societies of Egypt, China, and Greece were all involved with candy production using honey mixed with fruits and nuts. Cane sugar was added to make a thick, delicious sweet chocolate drink. By the 1800s, sugar from processed cane and beets was added to make hard candy. The Salem Gibralters line is believed to be the first commercially made candy in America. Available since 1806, they are soft, sugary, melt-in-your-mouth kind in peppermint and lemon flavors. It is said that in 1847, J.S. Fry and Sons from England produced the first chocolate bar. In 1930, Snickers, named after a horse, was created. It has become the most popular candy in the US.
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55
Star material
Make way for the senior Climbing up the rungs of a corporate ladder requires a plan. Sometimes, even if you are committed to a clear plan, the vicissitudes of life may hand you a different set of cards. It’s OK. You need to play that right. This seems to be the ingrained attitude of Sonia, the ‘Senior of Happy Days, who in reel life is now essaying her real-life dream of making it big in the corporate world.
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ravs might be the most memorable character from Sekhar Kammula’s Happy Days, but Sonia, who plays the character, deserves a whole lot of the credit for it. The other day we found her dressed in simple jeans and kurti while she was dubbing for her next release Vinayakudu. Her sparkly eyes were then a little dull. “I might be catching flu; I was with a friend who had fever yesterday”, she says. In spite of this and her unfinished work, she was all smiles for Hyderabad Josh’s camera. She details her life before ‘Happy Days.’ “I was a corporate employee and my ambition was to climb up the corporate ladder,” she recalls with pride about the choices she subsequently made as life threw up surprises for her. “Now, there’s a radical shift in my thinking about what I want to do and what I’m actually doing. I just want to do good cinema now. Okay, that may sound clichéd, but it’s true.” For her and the rest of the newbie cast, Happy Days was a dream debut. Were shooting for her debut happy days too? “Not exactly,” she mumbles, adding “They understood that we were new and got out the best in us.” About her fellow debutants in the film, Sonia recounts they had a whale of a time during the shooting. “Our busy schedules these days do not allow us to meet often, though we keep in touch, wishing each other on birthdays and during festivals at least.” When we pose questions about her college days, a strange glow comes to her face. “We were a 15-member group. We really lived out the college life. We had 15 birthdays in a year. We’d bunk classes, cram in night-outs: the whole lot of us, boys and girls, would watch movies, celebrate and stay together. It was a three-year party for me at Bhavan’s, Sainikpuri from where I did my graduation.”
Sonia got noticed immediately, as much for her role in the movie as for her curls. “My curls are natural, and from what I hear, my USP too”, she preens. “Also my dusky looks add to my overall appeal, according to people.” What if she’s asked to straighten it for a movie? “I dread doing it. My hair is too brittle”. On rating her sex appeal, Sonia charmingly suggests: “Why don’t you carry a poll in Hyderabad Josh?! People can rate it, instead”, she laughs. “If you insist, I will say it won’t go below 7. My ego won’t allow it to!” Outside the world of movies, Sonia defines her fashion statement as ‘simple, smart and elegant’. “My friends are bored of my jackets, I have so many. I love jeans. They are my must-have”. How about other musthaves? She initially falters with her answer while trying to be diplomatic, but regains composure and exclaims “undergarments, of course!” She concedes she isn’t a big follower of trends. Nor is she a brand-junkie. Quiz her about her good and bad habits; she lists the bad ones first: “Outspoken, over-expressive face, lack of punctuality…God, I have too many!” she grins. “Hmm, as for my good habits, I’m straightforward, I value my family and I have my feet on the ground.” Her family consists of her mother, a homemaker, and a younger brother who is studying to be an engineer, like her reel self. About her friends in the industry, she reveals: “I’m too new right now, but Gayathri and me really hit it off and we catch up as often as possible. All the assistant directors and their families have been pretty friendly.” Her role models include Julia Roberts, Sushmitha Sen and she loves ‘the way Genelia is handling her career right now’. “My friends frequent pubs, so I go with them”, she says. “But, I like to go only with them. I like BnC, Fbar -the usual list.” “All the music I listen to is at the pubs.” Growing up in a joint family, she found too much competition for the computer. “I hardly got a chance to listen to the music I like whenever I wanted. Now I’m busy, so when I go to pubs I get to listen to my favorite hip-hop, fusion and soft rock. I can’t stand heavy metal or anything too classical though.” Kya fitness funda wagera? “I need to get one! I’ve put on weight and I need to tone up. I’m thinking of yoga. Maybe Hyderabad Josh can run an article and advice me on what to do,” she smiles. She’s asserts she is “single and happy.” She would like someone who will be ‘indispensable’ to her. “I shouldn’t need anyone else when he’s in my life”, she says. How about a guy like Tyson? “No, I would have asked for more time too. In a lot of ways, Sravs and Sonia are similar. I am dominating yet sensitive like Sravs. My character in Vinayakudu is a corporate woman who has similar but not same characteristics. I play an older and more mature role than the one in my debut, which was collegial.” Life has clearly changed for this former corporate chick. “My schedule is unpredictable now. Sometimes I’m really busy and at times I’m not. I love the way people smile at me wherever I go. They are quite nice and understand the need for my privacy. I like the fact that being a celebrity gives you the power to make people smile.” On that pleasant note, the ‘Senior’ from Happy Days signs off and gives her trademark smile for Hyderabad Josh readers.
- Anjali
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Travel bug
Step out with pride
T
ravel to any place becomes a pleasure only if we have no hassles carrying our things, be it in a shoulder bag or a swanky suitcase. The more capacious your bag, the greater is the comfort level. And Samsonite has just the kind of bags you need.
Global luxury brand Samsonite Black Label premiered the collection of official travel and footwear for the first time in Asia in LFW for fashion conscious travellers. The season has seen fresh arrivals in Samsonite. Check 'em out‌
Hommage - 2, the check-in size MRP: 17,900/Colours available: sanoli & black
Duffle Back pack Colours available: Brown & Blue MRP: 6490/-
Sahara Bright, a semi hard luggage has two sizes 'The Cabin' and the 'check-in size'. Cabin size (55 cm; 10 kg) Rs. 7790/Colour available : Shiny red Check-in size (77 cm; 30kg) Rs. 10,540/Colour available : Shiny black
Hommage - 2, the cabin luggage MRP: 13,000 Colours available: sanoli & black Classic oxford shoe from Black Label Colour: Black MRP: 11,900/-
Hollywood Sport Shoe with glittering suede leather Colours: Gold & Blue MRP : Rs. 5490/-
Hommage Duffle Bag Colour available: olive MRP: 9930/-
Hommage Duffle Toiletery Kit Colour available: olive MRP: 7770/-
Sport Shoe Colours: silver & black MRP: Rs. 7900/-
Business lace up colours: moka MRP: 4690/-
MilKonos Sandal Colour: Old Rose/ Pink MRP: 2390/-
Strap Sneaker Colours: silver & white MRP: Rs. 7900/-
Sidney Buckle Moccasin Colour: Gold MRP: 3290/-
SEPTEMBER 2008
59
Pet pooja
Rajasthani rage F
ood festivals enliven the lives of epicureans. For travel lovers, food festivals are a blessing. The more traveled they are, the greater is their sense of enjoyment if they find ethnic tastes out of the blue. As their taste buds are used to a variety of culinary influences, they cannot help trying newer and newer delicacies from various parts of the globe. The recent Rajasthani food festival at Taj Krishna saw gourmets in Hyderabad, including tourists, go gaga over the mouth-watering dishes made available for their pleasure. Men, women and children alike helped themselves to tasty Paneer Jodhpuri, Dal Bati Churma, Chakki ka saag, Papad mangodi, Ker Sangri, Laal Maas, Macchi Jaipuri, Misri mawa, Missi roti, Bejad ki roti, Methi ki roti, Mirchi wada, Mangodi kabab, Malpua and Rajbhog. Some discovered desert delicacies in the scrumptious spread.
Paneer Jodhpuri
Malpua
Chef Zubin Writer Macchi Jaipuri
Italian delicacies Grilled vegetables
I
Gobi makhanwali
talian delicacies like andi pasti, parma ham, pepperoni, mozzarella, caprese and balsamic vinegar, sautĂŠ mussels, ministrone, pappa de pommodro, porchini, lasagna, tiramisu, pannacotta and casatta were flavors of the season at Taj Krishna during the recent Italian Food Festival. Food lovers, who prefer items with less of spices, less fat and more of herbs, delightfully savored the Italian items to their heart:s content.
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Debut
‘CHIRU’ IN A BIG ROLE
M
ega star Chiranjeevi's dashing entry into politics, after a stint of nearly three decades in films, has hurt his ardent fans and industry leaders. Film industry circles know very well that Chiranjeevi is one who attained stardom without a godfather. For nearly three decades he has dominated the Telugu celluloid world like a colossus, banking only on his skills and innate ability. Starting literally with Punadhirallu (1978), he went on to attain stardom with Khaidi. Despite the predominance of stalwarts like NTR, ANR, Krishna and Sobhan Babu on the silver screen, Chiru won the hearts of countless fans by introducing novelty in his fights, dances and action scenes. Even today youth ape him in everyday life. Considering that he has acted in 149 films, Chiru was expected to round of his 150th film with an all-time great performance. That part of his professional life is still in suspense, though the star announced on August 17th that he would devote the rest of his life to public service. On August 26th, he launched Praja Rajyam in Tirupati amidst unprecedented public and media glare. Chiru's mission now is clear. He has already given glimpses of his public service through the Chiranjeevi Charitable Trust, which operates blood and eye banks. At his bidding, thousands of members of his fan clubs regularly donate blood to save lives. Chiru will now be directly in public service, with the difference that there will be no retakes in his new avatar.
Handling with tact
P
lays help awaken people’s sensibilities and serve as valuable tools to remove socio-cultural barriers and prejudices among people. Much depends on the script and the performances of actors. The message must be simple and it must be driven home straight to a receptive audience, regardless of the sensitiveness of the issue at hand. The play, I, Madhav Bagh, organized by the Qadir Ali Baig Theatre Foundation in association with Ranga Shankara at ITC Kakatiya Sheraton on August 11, is a good example. Scripted by Chetan Dattar, the play dealt with the sensitive issue of homosexuality. In her debut, Revathi made a mark with her solo act a woman who comes to terms with her son’s homosexual tendencies. The select audience, specially seated on the floor, appreciated her performance.
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61
High spirits Srikanth Soma, better known as ‘Biscuit Srikant,’ threw a lavish party at f-bar on his birthday recently. The guests lingered on until early hours. The birthday boy was ecstatic because many of his friends, including NRIs, Tollywood stars and models.
Anitha
Actors Srikanth and Tarun with Biscuit Srikanth
Biscuit Srikanth with betterhalf Sangeeta
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Sheela lost in thought
Yashwanth (left) and Nikita
With NRI Vinutan Reddy
Mehjabeen gets all attention
Actor Rohit (right) at the party
Banter with the birthday boy
Mayuri’s musings SEPTEMBER 2008
63
Cheers At Zouk the other day, newcomers had a field day. Some of them got tips on the fine art of living from seniors.
Confabulation
Srikanth and Actor Venkat
lighting up for action
Vishal goud
Suno kahani
64
oneness SEPTEMBER 2008
Elegant entry one life
Light-hearted entry
Let’s call
What’s that
Step in SEPTEMBER 2008
65
Afterhours
Advertising agency JWT Mindset took fun to new heights at its 10th anniversary celebrations at Poison recently. The leading lights of the industry, designers and the city’s creme de la creme had a whale of a time.
Meena
Eagerly awaited
Asmita Marwah
Dr. Kennedy
Upasana kameneni
Harwesh Marwah
Captivating smile
Deepthi Let’s do it together
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SEPTEMBER 2008
Gunny Raju
Ready to take on
Bunty Bajaj
Priya ram
What to do now?
Venkat Magic blue SEPTEMBER 2008
67
Metro info HELPLINE Emergency - 108 Police - 100 Fire - 101 Electricity - 1912, 155333 Police Control Room - 23232222 Crime Stopper - 1090 Police Exchange - 23230191 Police Control Room (Rr Dt): 23235398 Traffic - 223234065 Tourism Info -1363 Water Supply 223393113 Gas Emergency - 27801123 Dog Menace - 23394566 Railway - 1331/131/1345 APSRTC-Enquiry - 24614406, 9592 26257 Reservation - 24613955, 23434269 Ambulance - 102 CDR Ambulance- 23456789 Apollo - 23548888 AP (Apathbandu) - 24603566 GOVT HOSPITALS Dental Hospital - 24601930 ESI, Erragadda- 23700531 Cancer Hospital- 23318422 ENT, Koti- 24740245 Fever Hospital, Nallakunta 27667844 Gandhi Hospital, Sec'bad- 27702222 Golconda Hospital- 23513776 Govt. Maternity Hospital, Koti - 24653647 Homeopathy Hospital - 24046817 King Koti Hospital- 24756085 Koti Maternity Hospital - 24653647 Mental Hospital, Erragadda23814441 Military Hospital, Sec'bad27792580 MNJ Cancer Hospital, Red Hills23318422 Niloufer Hospital, Red Hills23391652 Nims, Panjagutta23320332/23314887 Nizamia Gen. Hospital2524422/2524424 Osmania Hospital, Afzalgunj24600121/24 Railway Hospital, Sec'bad27001134
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Sd Eye Hospital, Mehdipatnam23317274 State Tb Centre, Erragadda23811797 Global Hospital 23244444,9440434567 Apollo Hospitals- 23607777 Medwin Hospitals- 23201120, 9948855488 Yashoda Hospital- 24555555, 9949169341 Kamineni Hospital- 23222385 Hope Children Hospital- 23223782 The Animal Care Clinic- 23352474 Care Hospital- 30219000 9866897297 Image Hospital- 23750000, 9908734567 Medinova Hospitals- 23312161 Brain And Spine Neuro Clinic23399638 Satya Kidney Centre- 27650935 Sarada Devi Hospital- 27719080 KIMS Hospital- 27814910 EYE BANKS L.V.Prasad Eye Bank Tel-2354 4504, 2354 5454, 23608262 Ramayya International23548266/67 Sarojini Devi Eye Bank- 23317274 ORGAN FOUNDATION Mohan Foundation -6636 9369, 93924 56355 BLOOD BANKS Gandhi Hospital 27702222 Govt. Chest Hospital 23814421/22 Govt. ENT Hospital 24740245/24742329 Heritage Centre 23730202/23736650 Bhanji Kheraj Blood Bank 24745243 CDR Blood Bank 23221221 Ext. 4558 Kamineni Blood Bank 24022272 To 76 ITMR Blood Bank Tel-2331 9491 Matadin Goel Blood Bank 23226624 Medwin Blood Bank 23202902/4616,24606106 Chiranjeevi Blood Bank &Eye Bank Tel-2355 9555/5005/4849
Red Cross Blood Tel-2763 3087 Bhanji Kheraj Tel-2474 5243 Lions Club Binjraka Tel3241 1317 24 HOURS PHARMACY Apollo Pharmacy- 23231380 Health Pharmacy- 23310618 Medwin Pharmacy- 23202902 New City Hospital Pharmacy55260004 METERED TAXIS Easy Cabs- 43434343 Meru Cabs- 44224422 Apple Cabs- 65992225 Or 2226 C Cab- 24002345 Call Taxi- 27901111 Or 1122 Cel Cabs- 23242526 City Cab- 27760000 Euro Cabs- 23511888 Fast Track- 28889999 Green Cab- 6664-4444 Hyderabad Cabs- 23303324 Metro Cab- 66100676 Or 0677 Orange Cab- 66315555
RAILWAYS General Railway Enquiries For Hyderabad, Secunderabad & Kachiguda Tel -1331/131/1345 Enquiries Recorder Tel - 27833541 BUS SERVICES Reservation (Imbibun): 24828685 Alighting Point (Gowliguda): 24601919 Jubilee Bus Station -27802203 Imlibun Bust Station24614406 / 24618685 Dilsukhnagar Bus Station 24040023 Koti Bus Station Enquiries 24657651 POST/TELEGRAPH Speed Post Business Centre24617013 General Post Office Hyderabad 24745978 Secunderabad H.P.O 27842683 C.T.O Hyderabad 24609929 C.T.O Secunderabad 27841345
TOURISM Tourist Information - 1363 AP Tourism Universal Access Number Hyderabad & Secunderabad- 1901-334033 Other Places In India0901-334033
MUNICIPAL SERVICES GHMC Tankbund Emergency Related To Flooding, House Collapses23394566 GHMC Office For All General Complaints-23225397 Garbage Complaints- 23221276
AIRLINES Air India -23241383/23233119 Indian Airlines - 23238902/141 Tele Check In Tel- 27896555 Recorded Flight Information- 142 Enquiry (Air Port) Tel- 140 Arrival Tel-9627-011-142 Departure Tel-9627-011-143 Rajiv Gandhi Airport - -27900004 Kingfisher Airlines- -23210985. Seo4india Ph- 0214-4035762/3 United Airlines - 23236042 Swiss Air Phone - 23311144 Malaysia Airlines - 23242443 Kuwait Airways - 23234409 Korean Air - 26503450 Jet Airways - 23314903, 23301222 France Air Pvt Ltd - 23230947 Enquiry - 23405155 Flight Enquiry-Ivr Tel27900382,27902819 Sahara Airlines- -23212767
TELECOM SERVICE Directory Enquiry 197 Inland Trunk Call Booking 180 Trunk Assistance & Cancellation- 181 International Booking 186 Cancellation & Enquiry 187 Changed Number 1951/1952/1953 Phonogram Booking 185 CULTURAL CENTRES Film Nagar - 23558101 Taramati Baradari - 23521884 Jawahar Bal Bhavan Nampally Cultural Centres - 23233956 Goethe Zentrum -65526443 Red Hat Linux - 66463365 Iigt Careers - 41367777 Global Profit - 9866121717 Vedika Language -27607395 Ravindra Bharathi- 23233672
NTR Auditorium - 23230641, 9948588512 Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan - 23237825
24564063 Shilpakala Vedika Auditorium, Madhapur Hyderabad 23112704
CHARITABLE TRUST CBN India Charitable Trust 23541235 Ramakrishna Math -27627961 Make A Wish Charitable Trust 23557772 Society To Save Rocks - 23552923
RESORTS & CLUBS Lahari Resorts - 23492349, 9440900251 Hotel Sitara - 08415-246444 Treasure Island Resort -23327899, 9885074002 Celebrity Club- 08418245200 Pragathi Resorts - 23553184, 9989923599 Breezy Farms -65999589, 9246535084 Swagrutha Estates - 23327510 , 9246525706 Golconda Resort And Spa 24193000
BEAUTY PARLOUR Anoos Beauty Parlour - 27800199 Lakme Beauty Parlour - 32999884 Evlas Beauty Parlour- 27847038 Evlas Beauty Parlour -23428888 Ferys Beauty Parlour - 23401463 Miracle Beauty Parlour - 23370396 SPA Shahnaz Spa - 66824422 Nirva Spa - 66824422 HAIR SALONS Loreal - 66467255 . Toppers - 23402357 Joysen's - 66484443, 9989832713 The Mirror - 23302693, 9866671085 Bubbles Beauty Parlour 65765577, 9247395242 Habibs Hair And Beauty - 27807612 Pacific Spa Beauty Parlour 23557575 Getfit Health And Spa Studio 40115040 Kaya Skin Clinic - 66839304, 9395132713 Cosmo Hair & Skin Clinic 23262239 ART GALLERIES Pegasus Art Gallery - 9848077144 Alankritha Art Gallery - 65259437 9885080296 Shrishti Art Gallery- 23540023, 9985303473 Khazana Arts Gallery - 23541106 9346781005 Autistics Art - 23548738, 9246268621 Chitralekhanam- 66631699 Kalahita Art - 23350542 Daira- 66618628, 9849987187 Lakshana Art - 23378033 Hari Hara Kala Bavan Auditorium -
ASSOCIATION Movie Artist Association 23540022 AP Cine Stunt Director And Artists Union... Association - 23546754, 9246369035 Nandi Foundation Charitable Trust 23415741 Unicef Charitable Trust - 23225832 Kala Saagaram Association 27730752 CLUBS New Club - 27700379 Nizam Club -23237097 Fateh Maidan Club - 23237331 Secunderabad Club - 27540164 Jubilee Hills International Club 23557891 Press Club - 23232660, 9849623744 Deccan Club - 27732197 Hyderabad Club - 23608479 Hyderabad Film Club- 23730841 Hyderabad Boats Club - 23453877 Jubilee Hills Ladies Club 23548446 AP Lawn Tennis Association 23231515 AP Basket Ball Association 27800128 Rajus Cricket Club - 23540747 Cricket Association Association 27905676 FIVE STAR HOTELS Hotel Comfort Inn Woodbridge -
23399999 Hotel Grand Kakatiya - 23310132 Taj Krishna - 23392323 Taj Residency - 23399999 Hotel Asrani International 27842267 Hotel Basera-27703200 Hotel Deccan Continental 27840981 Hotel Minerva - 23220448 Hotel Ramada Manohar - 2819917 Hotel The Residency - 23204060 (18lines) Hotel Marriote- 27538383 SHOPPING MALLS Mpm Mall Shopping Mall 66786789 Amrutha Mall - 66626940, 9246156939 City Centre Mall - 66754497 Hyderabad Central - 66430000 SKC Shopping Mall - 32415250 Lumbini Mall Shopping Mall 66272004 Babukhan Mall - 39129216, 9866192179 Brand Factory Shopping Complex 44310000 Shopper's Stop - 27761080 Metro Cash And Carry - 23070001 COFFEE SHOPS Barista Coffee Shop - 66362831, 64556701 Odyssey Cafe Coffee Shop 23416499 Le Cafe D Art Coffee Shop 65506661 Cafe Coffee Day Coffee Shop 64520473, RESTAURANTS Gufaa Restaurant (North Indian)23298855 Tadka Restaurant - 23302200 Haveli Restaurant - 23409999 Bombay Vihar Restaurant 65537777 Gujarat Bhojanalay Restaurant 24750079 Raj Yoga Centre -27806700 , 9908722547 Yoga Centre - 66133044, 9848450273 Baseraa Inn -23298855
Metro info
Taj Banjara - 66669999 Taj Krishna- 66662323 Taj Tristar- 27818989 Ohris Banjara 23302200,9866778039 Basera Hotel27703200,9866778031 Aditya Park Inn- 66788888, 9246577883 Taj Mahal Hotel 24758250,9391351122 Hotel The Manohar- 66543456 Novotel Hyderabad -66824422 Leo Continental- 66333366 Hyderabad Marriott Hotel27522999 The Golconda Hotel- 66110101 Katriya Hotels -23325678, 9849597052 ISTA - 44508888 ITC Hotel Kakatiya Sheraton23400132 LOUNGE BAR & PUBS Enigma Bar & Pub - 66117373 Soul Club Bar & Pub - 65444466, 9985025000 Firangi Paani Bar & Pub - 66683336 Dublin Bar & Pub - 23400132 Firangi Paani Bar & Pub -66683336 10 Downing Street Bar & Pub - 66629323 Bottles And Chimneys - 27766464 , 9848092888 Reo Bar & Pub -22715236 , 9866990520 Escape Bar & Pub -66515151 Pmatka Bar & Pub - 9989420891 Sparks Bar & Pub - 66629977 Scarlet The Boutique Lounge 23425063 F-Bar And Lounge Nightclub 23541777 Ahala Nightclub -66662323 Touch Nightclub - 66049534 Liquids Nightclub - 66664488, 9247242126 Underdeck Bar & Pub 040 66669999 DESIGNER BOUTIQUES Elahe - 66565154, 23350130 Brisah - 23423443-45 Stanza - 6663 7373, 66337575 Satya Paul -66565158
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Sightseeing CHARMINAR 9am-5pm Mon-Sat. Rs 5, Children below 11 free (for Indians) Rs.50 (for foreigners)
ARCHIVAL MUSEUM (A.P. State Archives and Research Institute), 10.30 am to 6 pm Tarnaka, Ph: 27018371.
GOLCONDA FORT 9am-9pm. The Golconda Fort was the first capital of the Qutb Shahi kingdom. Rs 5.
B.M. BIRLA PALNETARIUM Adarshnagar, 10:30 AM- 8 PM, Rs. 17, Combined admission: Rs. 35. Ph :2452 1029.
FALAKNUMA PALACE Built by Nawab Viqar al-Umra in 1872. Rs 25, Rs 150 (for foreigners) NECKLACE ROAD The Chaupati of Hyderabad at Imax. CHOWMAHALLA PALACE 10am-5pm Sa-Th. ph: 24522032. Rs 25 (for Indians) Rs 150 (for foreigners) QUTB SHAHI TOMBS 9am-4.30pm Sa-Th. Rs 2. Ph :2351 341. Near Golconda Fort. RAMOJI FILM CITY 9.00 am to 5.30 pm: Adults Rs. 300, Childrens 250. Ph : 23235678/77. RAYMOND TOMB Michel Raymond, a French mercenary, His tomb is located at Saroornagar. SALAR JUNG MUSEUM Naya Pul, Afzalgunj ph: 2452 3211. 10AM - 5 PM Sa-Th. Rs 15 for Indians and Rs 150 for Foreigners.
H.E.H THE NIZAM'S MUSEUM 10am-5pm Sa-Th. Adults-Rs.50 Students & Children-Rs.15. Ph :2452 1029. PUBLIC GARDENS Known as the Bagh-e-aam (Garden for the commoners) Archaeological Museum. SHILPARAMAM Hi tec city, Madhapur. 11:00 AM-8PM. Rs. 10. NEHRU ZOOLOGICAL PARK 8am to 12 noon : 3pm to 8 pm Ph: 2452 4023, adults Rs. 10, Childrens Rs. 5. BIRLA MANDIR Adarsh nagar, am-12 noon, 2pm-8pm. House of the Birlas have the tradition of building magnificent marble temple. CHILKUR BALAJI TEMPLE (Chilkur Balaji Temple), Chilkur Balaji Temple, 6.00 to 21.00.
PRAGATI RESORTS Spread over 26 acres and an hour drive from Hyderabad, facilities like swimming, Ph: 23553184,
HUSSAIN SAGAR LAKE (Tank Bund) Necklace Road. the centre of the lake stands a famous statue of the Buddha.
PURANI HAVELI 10:30am-5pm Sa-Th. the palace of the Nizam's Prime Minister.
NTR GARDENS NTR Marg (West of Hussain Sagar lake). 2 PM-8:30 PM. the Rs. 45 combo. Rs.15 for entry.
OCEAN PARK Gandipet, Ph: 2322 5660/23223824 A water-theme park INDIRA PARK A sprawling 76 acre park located near Tank Bund.
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PAIGAH TOMBS
LUMBINI PARK NTR Marg (West of Hussain Sagar lake). 9 AM-9 PM. Rs.5, rides extra.
SEPTEMBER 2008
Photo : M.C. Shekhar
RUNWAY 9 Ph+95-8418-232 752/232 It's a 1-2 hour drive east of the city.
Gardens in Andhra Pradesh, spread over 120 acres, when completed will have 19 sections (Vanams).
DIGINET DIGITAL EXPERIENCE ZONE (AP's Best Gamecenter. Wifi hotspot, coffee shop, shopping)Ph: 55580009
HITEC CITY One of the modern monuments of trade and technology, it embodies the newfound attitude of Hyderabad.
DHOLA-RI-DHANI 24 hours situated at Kompally on Medchal Road. Camel rides, puppet shows, folk dances, authentic. BOTANICAL GARDENS The first Botanical
JALAVIHAR at 10.00 am to 8.30 pm Adults : 50, childrens 25/at Necklace Road. TREASURE ISLAND A picturesque holiday spot, the Treasure
Island, located on 60 acres of landscape at Gandipet. LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY 10 am TO 5 pm, Tel : 23232171, 66362471, Entry Free. PAIGAH TOMBS 10 am TO 5 pm, Friday holiday 24658124 Entry Free. DREAM VALLEY RESORTS Nestled amidst lush green environs at Gandipet, Resorts is a water theme park with waterslide