METRO MART August 2018

Volume 8 Issue 2 August 2018

`50

Ananthapuri the mighty capital of

God’s Own Country On Face

Sri. Kadakampally Surendran

!

Dear Readers, Onam – The festival of Keralites celebrating the mythical king Mahabali’s visit during the Malayalam month of Chingam.

God’s Own Country’s Festival ‘Onam’ came up with a rider this year – A flood.

A flood, which affected over a million people. However, typical to Kerala, the people endured and supported each other. Yes, the floods took the sheen out of celebration. But the celebration of human bonding shone like never before. Keralites across the world took notice of the situation and provided assistance materially and monetarily.

Volunteer groups were formed and they took up sourcing, mobilizing, and distribution of relief materials.

Governmental authorities carried out rescue and relief measures round-theclock. Support and assistance came from far and wide. States across India, foreign countries, UN, etc., offered assistance.

The result of these activities was there for all to see – streamlined rescue missions, relief camps, and rehabilitation activities. Cleaning drives were taken up for facilitating the return of those in camps to their own homes.

Construction of houses and rebuilding of infrastructure is taken up on a time bound manner by the authorities.

Kerala Travel Mart 2018 is fast approaching and the preparations for the same are ongoing. Hospitality and allied sector is getting ready to participate and facilitate guests from across the world.

Foreword

SIJI NAIR

Managing Editor & Director e-mail: sijicn@gmail.com

August 2018

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Volume 8 - Issue 02 - August 2018

Contents

www.metromartdaily.com Read our e-edition: www.issuu.com/metromart Annual Subscription Rs- 500

Publisher

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Managing Editor & Director

Siji Nair

Sijicn@gmail.com Editor

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Editorial Assistant

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Jayaprakash RP Creative Head

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Sabu C.N.

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Manager - Accounts

Sindhu R.

Onam,

the Biggest Festival of Kerala

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Pune | Kolkata | Bangalore | Kochi

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August 2018

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RNI No: KERENG/2011/40037

22 On Face Sri. Kadakampally Surendran the mighty capital 38 Ananthapuri, of God’s Own Country!

44 Chilanka Rural Fest-2018 Onam Collection 50 Czarina’s takes the city by storm.

Your Thirst With The Taste 52 End Of Dessi Cuppa

56 Hantex gets image makeover

58 The Picture page August 2018

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FESTIVAL

Onam The BIGGEST

FESTIVAL

N.Vijayagopalan

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August 2018

O

nam is a major traditional festival of the Malayalees in and outside Kerala. It is a harvest festival, observed with numerous festivities. Onam is a festival rich in culture and heritage. Onam falls in the first Malayalam calendar month of Chingam, which in Gregorian calendar overlaps with August–September. The festival commemorates the Vamana avatar of Vishnu, the subsequent homecoming of the legendary Emperor Mahabali and mythologies of Hinduism related to Kashyapa and Parashurama.

Onam is the official state festival of Kerala with public holidays that generally start four days from Onam Eve (Uthradom). It is celebrated by Malayali population around the world. Though Onam originated as a Hindu festival, it is being considered more as a cultural festival and celebrated by almost all communities irrespective of religion.

Origin of Onam The significance of the Onam festival is in Hindu legends, of which Mahabali legend is the widely accepted one. According to the Hindu mythology, Mahabali was the great great grandson of a Brahmin sage named Kashyapa, the great grandson of demonic dictator Hiranyakashipu, and the grandson of Vishnu devotee Prahlada. This links the festival to the Puranic mythology of Prahlada of Holika

fame in Hinduism, who is the son of demon dictator Hiranyakashyap.

Prahlada, despite being born to a demonic Asura father who hated Vishnu, rebelled against his father’s persecution of people and worshipped Vishnu. Hiranyakashyap tries to kill his son Prahlada, but is slained by Vishnu in his Narasimha avatar, Prahlada is saved.

Prahlada’s grandson Mahabali came to power by defeating the gods (Devas) and taking over the three worlds. According to Vaishnavism mythology, the defeated Devas approached Vishnu for help in their battle with Mahabali.

Vishnu refused to join the gods in violence against Mahabali, because Mahabali was a good ruler and his own devotee. He, instead, decided to test Mahabali’s devotion at an opportune moment. Mahabali, after his victory over the gods, declared that he will perform Yajna (homa sacrifices) and grant anyone any request during the Yajna. Vishnu took the avatar of a dwarf boy called Vamana and approached Mahabali.

The king offered anything to the boy – gold, cows, elephants, villages, food, whatever he wished. The boy said that one must not seek more than one needs, and all he needs is the property right over a piece of land that measures “three paces”.

Mahabali agreed to this.

The Vamana grew and covered everything Mahabali ruled over in just two paces. For the third pace, Mahabali offered himself, an act August 2018

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which Vishnu accepted as evidence of Mahabali’s devotion. Vishnu granted him a boon, by which Mahabali could visit again, once every year, the lands and people he previously ruled. This revisit marks the festival of Onam, as a reminder of the virtuous rule and his humility in keeping his promise before Vishnu. The last day of Mahabali’s stay is remembered with a ninecourse vegetarian Onasadya feast.

Celebrations, rituals and practices Onam falls in the month of Chingam, which is the first month according to the Malayalam Calendar. The celebrations mark the Malayalam New Year, are spread over ten days, and conclude with Thiruvonam. The most important day of Onam is Thiru Onam.

Rituals pertaining to Onam festival commence ten days before Thiru Onam, on Atham.

The Atham day is marked with the start of festivities at Vamanamoorthy Thrikkakara temple (Kochi). This Vishnu temple is considered as the focal centre of Onam and the abode of Mahabali, with the raising of the festival flag. Parades are held, which are colourful and depict the elements of Kerala culture with floats and tableaux.

Other days have diverse range of celebrations and activities including Vallam Kali (boat race), Pulikali (tiger dance), Pookkalam 14

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(flower arrangement), Onathappan (worship), Onam Kali, Tug of War, Thumbi Thullal (women’s dance), Kummattikali (mask dance), Onathallu (martial arts), Onavillu (music), Kazhchakkula (plantain offerings), Onapottan (costumes), Aththaachamayam (folk songs and dance), and other celebrations like cultural programs, sports competitions, dance events, martial arts, floral designs (pookkalam) shopping, donating time or food for charity to spending time with family over feasts. Men and women wear traditional dress. The Kerala sari or Kasavu sari is particularly wore on this day.

The Onam celebrations across the state, starts off with a grand procession at Thrippunithura near Kochi called Atthachamayam, also referred to as Thripunithura Athachamayam. The parade features elephants marching, drum beats and other music, folk art forms, floats and colorfully dressed people with masks. In Kerala’s history, the Kochi king used to head a grand military procession in full ceremonial robes from his palace to the Thrikkakara temple, meeting and greeting his people. In contemporary times, this a state supported event. The parade floats traditionally feature scenes from epics such as the Mahabharata and the Ramayana. Additionally, some floats include themes from the Bible as well as current themes thereby highlighting unity and harmony.

The procession path historically has been from Tripunithura to the Vamanamoorthy Temple in Thrikkakara, Ernakulam district. The temple is dedicated to Vishnu in his Vamana (dwarf) avatar. After arrival at the temple, the marchers offer a prayer.

Floral arrangements during Onam are a very popular tradition.

The floral carpet, known as Onapookkalam or just Pookkalam, is made out of the gathered blossoms with several varieties of flowers of differing tints pinched up into little pieces to design and decorate patterns on floor, particularly at entrances and temple premises like a flower mat. Lamps are arranged 16

August 2018

in the middle or edges. It is a work of art, typically the team initiative of girls and women, who accomplish it with a delicate touch and a personal artistic sense of tone and blending.

When completed, a miniature pandal (umbrella) hung with little festoons is erected over it. The pookkalam is similar to Rangoli which is made of powders of various colors and is popular in North India.

The traditional ritual of laying pookkalam (floral carpet) starts on Atham day. The pookkalam on this day is called Athappoo, and it is relatively small in size. The size of the pookkalam grows in size progressively with each day of the Onam festival. Only yellow flowers

will be used on Atham with only one circular layer made and the design is kept simple. All over Kerala, Pookkalam competitions are a common sight on Onam day. Statues or figurines of Mahabali and Vamana are also installed at the entrance of each house on this day in some parts of Kerala.

Traditional dance forms including Thiruvathira, Kummattikali, Pulikali, Thumbi Thullal, Onam Kali and others are performed during the Onam festival.

Thiruvathira kali is a women’s dance performed in a circle around a lamp. Kummattikali is a colourfulmask dance. In Thrissur, festivities includes a procession consisting of caparisoned elephants surrounded

by Kummatikali dancers. The masked dancers go from house to house performing the colorful Kummattikali. Onam Kali is a form of dance where players arrange themselves in circles around a pole or tree or lamp, then dance and sing songs derived from the Ramayana and other epics.

Kathakali dance is also commonly

performed during this time, with dancers enacting famous mythological legends. A famous venue for this is at Valluvanad (Northern Kerala) which is associated with the growth of Kathakali, and Cheruthuruthy, where Kerala Kalamandalam is located.

Pulikali, also known as Kaduvakali is a common sight during Onam season. This dance showcases performers painted like tigers in bright yellow, red and black, who dance to the beats of instruments like Chenda and thakil. This folk art is mainly performed in the cultural district of Thrissur and thousands pour into the city to be a part of this art.

Performances of the ritual worship dance Theyyam are given during the Onam season. In this, Mahabali is played by the Onathar. Its variations include characters such as Oneswaran and Onapottan.

At the Thrikkakara temple, every day of the festival showcases one or more of these activities including Kathakali, Thiruvathira, Chakyar koothu, Ottam thullal, Patakam, Onam songs and percussion instrument shows. The Onasadya here is grand in scale, and is attended by over ten thousand people from all religions and faiths.

Festivities include Puli Kali (masked leopard dance) and traditional dance forms like Kaikotti Kali which are performed in various functions. The official Government celebrations start on this day with heavy August 2018

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illuminations in Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Kozhikode along with fireworks.

Major cities in Kerala, such as the political, commercial and cultural capitals namely Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Thrissur respectively, are lit up with lights and fabulous displays of fireworks. Sumptuous Onam Sadya feasts are prepared. In Thrikkakara temple, a mega-feast is conducted which is open to the public and is attended by more than twenty thousand people.

The Vallamkali (the snake boat race) is another event that is synonymous with Onam. Wellknown races include the Aranmula Uthrattadhi Boat Race and the Nehru Trophy Boat Race. Numerous oarsmen row huge snake-shaped boats. Men and women come from far and near to watch and cheer the snake boats race through the water.

This event is particularly featured on the Pampa River, considered sacred and Kerala equivalent of Ganges River. As a tribute to the traditional snake boat race, a similar snake boat race is also held by the Malayali diaspora in Singapore annually during Onam at the Jurong Lake.

Onam Sadya (Onam Feast) The Onam sadya (feast) is another very indispensable part of Thiruvonam, and almost every Keralite attempts to either make or attend one. The Onasadya reflects 18

August 2018

the spirit of the season and is traditionally made with seasonal vegetables. The feast consisting of cooked rice as the main item is served on plantain leaves and comprises of nine courses, but may include over two dozen dishes, including Chips (especially Banana chips), Sharkaravaratti (Fried pieces of banana coated with jaggery), Pappadam, a variety of vegetable dishes, various types of pickles , buttermilk, coconut chutney etc.. The feast ends with a series of desserts called Payasam (a sweet dish made of milk, sugar, jaggery and other traditional Indian savories.

Post Onam celebrations Normally, the largest chunk of Onam celebrations end by Thiruvonam. However the two days following Thiruvonam are also celebrated as Third and Fourth Onam. The third Onam, called Avvittom marks the preparations for King Mahabali’s return ascension to heavens. The main ritual of the day is to take the Onathappan statue which was placed in the middle of every pookkalam during the past ten days and immerse it in nearby rivers or sea. The pookkalam will be cleaned and removed after this ritual.

Other customs Onapottan in traditional costume is a custom in northern Kerala.

Onapottan visits houses and gives

blessings. People buy and wear new clothes for the occasion of Onam, and this tradition is called the Onakkodi.

During the Onam, Keralite Hindus install an image of Thrikkakara Appan or Onatthappan (Vishnu in the form of Vamana) in their home just as Hindus install images or murtis of Lord Ganesha on the Ganesha Chaturthi festival elsewhere.

Many lamps are lit in Hindu temples of Kerala during this celebration.

The swing is another integral part of Onam, especially in the rural areas. Young men and women, decked in their best, sing Onappaattu, or Onam songs, and rock one another on swings slung from high branches.

Onam season is often associated with creativity as weavers and potters go for excess production to cater to increased demands for their products during the season, especially in North Kerala regions of Kannur and Kasargod. Handloom fairs are an integral part of the spirit 20

August 2018

of Onam festivities these days.

In some parts of Kerala, people indulge in various games and dances during and post-Thiruvonam. These are known as Onakkalikal. These include competitions such as Ox races (Maramadimatsaram), Uriyady, food-eating competitions, Pookalam competitions etc.

Onam is the biggest festival of Kerala. But, there is a lot more to Onam than being just a festival.

Onam reflects the faith of the people of Kerala, a belief in their legendary past, and power of worship. It shows the high spirit of the people who go out of the way to celebrate the festival in the prescribed manner and a grand fashion. Onam festival is an integral part of the culture and tradition of Kerala and is considered as the festival of festivals in Kerala with all the hue, pomp and festivities surrounding it. It is sometimes even referred to as a national festival on account of its celebration by the Malayali population spread across all the States of the country.

ON FACE

Marching Towards CHANGE & PROGRESS -Kadakampally Surendran Minister for Co-Operation, Tourism and Devaswom Kerala is a land unified by diversities. The social development, economic security and religious harmony is exemplary in nature, and this is maintained with finesse by the Departments of Co-Operation, Tourism and Devaswom. One cannot ignore the role they play in the building of an advanced Kerala. The last two years have been a testimony to the success of the efforts of the leader and Minister of these Departments Sri. Kadakampally Surendran by emphasising the importance of social harmony and relevance.

The Co-Operative Society has struggled greatly and overcome certain conscious and deliberate campaigns conspired against it, as well as the consequences of demonetisation. The sector has been making decisive moves, making itself more efficient and immune to corruption, by announcing new and improved policies in the area of tourism. In a move that has etched itself in history, the Devaswom Board appointed members of the Scheduled Castes into the ranks of Shanti at temples under the Board.

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Department of CoOperation: The Pride of Kerala Kerala Bank: Pacing Towards Realisation The dream of a bank for the State of Kerala is slowly moving towards realisation. Steps have been taken to unify the Kerala Co-Operative Bank and the 14 District Co-Operative Bank. On April 28th, 2017, a team of experts lead by the renowned IIM-Bangalore professor M.S Sriram submitted a report for proceeding the same. Based on the findings and analysis of the report, a task force of experts has been formed headed by the Retd. NABARD Chief Manager V.R. Raveendranath. The team has been working enthusiastically and tirelessly to make things happen.

The Co-Operative Department is in the process of establishing the bank as soon as the nod from Reserve Bank is given.

Bringing Social Security Pension to your doorstep With the coming of this Government to power, the scheme to provide the Social Security Pension at the doorstep of the beneficiaries has been implemented.

An amount of Rs 4640.16 crore has been distributed in six phases so far.

The efficient and timely distribution of the Social Security Pension proves the strength and wide influence of the Department of Co-Operation.

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Haritham Sahakaranam: Greening the Co-Operative Sector The new scheme of Haritham Sahakaranam or the Green CoOperation, a part of the Haritha Kerala Mission, was implemented through the various Co-Operative Societies. About 5 lakh tree saplings were planted across the State as part of the mission. All the Co-Operative Societies came out to make this possible as a part of the World Earth Day Celebrations from 5th June to the 20th.

Tackling Inflating Prices Co-operative societies have effectively intervened in stabilizing the price in the general market.

The ‘golden Masuri’ rice was made available through the 680 rice supply centres across the state in an effort to curb the rising price as well as the deficit in the market.

The intervention was made by creating a consortium of the Primary Co-Operative Societies under the leadership of the ConsumerFed. The opening of more than 3600 Onam markets and 2000 Christmas-New Year markets was a strategy taken up to control the inflation related to the festival season. It is undoubtedly a great achievement that the ConsumerFed has been cleaned off the corruption and inefficiency that plagued the system.

ConsumerFed in Profit ConsumerFed that was steeped in loss is now in profit. According to the provisional balance sheet of

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31 March 2016, the estimated loss was at Rs 418.11 crore. But by 2017 December, the Federation got a net profit of Rs 51 crore. After the formation of this Government, Rs. 50 crore was paid to pay the subsidy interest. A total of Rs 5 crore was allocated for the 2016 Ramadhan market and Rs 40 crore for the 2017 Onam market.

E-tender was implemented to ensure transparency and to wipe off corruption. The Purchase Committee was expanded by including representatives from primary cooperative societies.Students markets, E-Triveni, and online trading are some initiatives taken up to boost sales.

Under the leadership of primary co-operative societies, 2000 Neeti Outlet and 1500 Neeti Medical Stores are scheduled to start up.

Gaining Strength: The Journey of the Co-Op Societies ‘NavaKeraleeyam’, a scheme aimed at reducing the interest rates of Co-Operative Societies and Banks and thereby encourage the proper repayment of loans thereby making them debt-free, was implemented from 15 February 2018 to March 31.

‘NavaKeraleeyam’ thus carried out the One-time settlement scheme.

This came as a relief to borrowers and banks alike.

In order to strengthen the primary co-operative societies, ConsumerFed, Neeti Stores and Neeti Medical Stores, steps were 26

August 2018

taken to provide equity, debt and subsidies. Women’s societies and Women’s Federation were also assisted in modernization and computerization. The SC / ST Societies which are working in profit were also assured assistance to carry out their major schemes.

The Scheduled Caste - Scheduled Tribes Development Cooperation Federation has become profitable after 17 years.

1000 new job opportunities were created. The Federation was able to provide ways for their development and strengthening. Rs 3 crore was granted for the renovation of the Clamshell industry Societies. Grants were allocated for Model CoOperative Societies for the starting up of innovative enterprises by the Scheduled Caste. The decision to form special Co-Operative Societies for the Transgender groups was even discussed by the international media.

One of the ways of modernizing the Co-Operative Sector is by implementing the Unified Software scheme, by which the Primary Agricultural Loan Co-Operative Societies will have access to modern banking facilities such as core banking solutions, net banking, ATM, RTGS and NEFT. Co-Operative Sector to the Aide of KSRTC Pensioners It is a matter of pride that during times when the KSRTC pension is delayed, the Co-Operative section has rushed to its aid. A Consortium

has been constituted to provide the amount required for the pension by collaborating the State Cooperative Bank and the Primary Agricultural Loan Societies of the 14 districts. It is exemplary how the entire pending pension payments were paid by the consortium. Every month the amount required for the distribution of pension is punctually delivered to the Primary Co-Operative Banks/ Societies. The Co-Operative Sector has provided a much-needed support to the KSRTC department and the KSRTC pensioners who were struggling even to buy medicines.

Finding Success In New Sectors The Co-operative societies are taking up new responsibilities and expanding into more areas.

The Societies are taking over the procurement of paddy, cashew and coconut and even the marketing of Malabar Cements. Co-Operative Societies are turning into dealers

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and stockists of Malabar Cement, which is a public sector enterprise.

The scheme whereby the Malabar Cements are marketed at a lower price and hence boosting sales was implemented as requested by the Malabar Cements Enterprise.

Active in the Agricultural Sector The last two years witnessed the active participation of the CoOperative Sector in the Agricultural

Department. The Agricultural Service Centres, which were opened with the aim of increasing production and collaborating with the Agricultural Department to coordinate its activities, expanded its reach and service. Action was taken to strengthen Co-Operative Societies working in the field of agricultural production and marketing. NTDC provided financial assistance to the Integrated Co-Operative Department of Progress (ICDP). The second phase is being implemented in the districts of Thrissur, Palakkad, and Idukki. Raidco was allocated an amount of Rs 15 crore for the 30

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The major challenge faced by the tourism sector is damage suffered by roads connecting tourism destinations. The Government, however, is giving top priority to rebuilding these roads. Tourism in Kerala will soon bounce back from the flood-related damage with the state Government giving priority to speedy restoration of roads connecting major destinations. The tourism trade has played a commendable role in the rescue and rehabilitation operations, which needs to be applauded.

opening of Mini Agro Bazaars, Agri Bazaars, Agri Clinics, and AgriBusiness Centres.

As part of the scheme for the renovation of the Agricultural Processing Units by NCDC, granted Rs. 734.40 lakhs to the Paddy Procurement Co-Operative Society in the year 2016-17. The pilot project for the procurement of paddy through Co-Operative Societies was implemented in the district of Palakkad. A consortium was formed for the immediate payment of the farmer as soon as the paddy is weighed and a scheme was implemented for the distribution of

the paddy collected by the Societies after it has been turned to rice through the Co-operative stores.

The Co-Operative sector also took up the Cashew procurement in order to solve the crisis faced by the cashew production sector. The Primary Co-Operative Societies have been entrusted with the duty of procuring the cashew produced in the 14 districts and handing it over to the Cashew Development Corporation.

This was done as requested by the State Cashew Development Corp.

Schemes are underway to restart the green coconut procurement by the Co-operative Societies under the leadership of the Department of Agriculture.

Cooperation policy The Department of Co-Operation formed Co-Operation Policies, which is a historic first for the state. The draft policy was introduced in the eighth Co-Operative Congress which guides the transformation of the Co-Operative sector. The term of the Co-operative Congress has been re-structured to a term of three years from the previous term of five years.

Every move the sector is making is with the steadfast aim of making the Co-Operative sector corruption-free.

Department of Tourism A New Tourism Policy for God’s Own Country A new tourism policy announced by the state with a comprehensive 32

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reform aroused a new enthusiasm in the sector. The decision to form a Kerala Tourism Regulatory Authority aimed at making the Tourism sector efficient and corruption-free has been included in the policy and the steps have been taken for its initiation. This aims to completely eliminate complaints like online scams, drugs, child abuse, and encroachment in environmentally sensitive areas and hence to safeguard the image of the Tourism Sector.

Kerala Tourism Entrepreneurship Fund The Kerala Tourism Department will implement the Entrepreneurship Fund to encourage innovative ideas and increase job opportunities in the Tourism Sector. This aims to attract a younger generation of entrepreneurs to the sector. The scheme aims to provide guidance and advice to entrepreneurs who bring forth innovative enterprises and services to the sector, as well as in providing management expertise and capital. The Government will take initiative to formulate a venture fund for the same.

At a glance • The Green Protocol will be implemented to tackle the plastic threat faced by the tourist centres.

• New Idea Meet and Investors Meet will be organized to attract young entrepreneurs and investors respectively.

• The Responsible Tourism Mission implemented at eight centres will be extended to all districts.

• Investment Guidance Cell will be formed to assist the expatriates who want to invest in the tourism sector.

• More Tourism Centres will be made differently-able friendly Projects Submitted for approval by the Central Government • River Cruise centred on the seven rivers of Kannur-Kasaragod districts • Kalady-Malayattoor Pilgrim tourism • Varkala Sivagiri Tourism Circuit Heritage Protection Schemes Currently in Progress • Muziris Heritage Conservation Scheme - Phase II • Thalassery Heritage Conservation Scheme - Foundation stone laid • Alappuzha Heritage Conservation Scheme Jatayu Rock Tourism Scheme With a public-private partnership, the Rs 100 crore project of the Jatayu Rock Tourism is a matter of pride for Kerala. The Government has provided the basic facilities such as roadways, electricity and more. Added to the fact that Jatayu Rock will be the worlds biggest bird statue, it also opens up new possibilities for the Department of Tourism.

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The Silent Revolution: Department of Devaswom Non-Brahman Shantis: The Herald of Social Change It was an event unprecedented in the history of the state that the Devaswom recruited nonbrahmans shantis in the temple and provided them with the protection for conducting rituals. Although the decades-old Temple Entry Proclamation had allowed the entry of members of backward classes into the Temple premises, they holy shrine was out of limits for them.

However, history is now being rewritten as the reservation for backward classes to the positions shantis is now being implemented as per the Constitution. The Devaswom recruited 142 persons for being appointed as shantis, of which 62 persons belonged to backward classes. The recruitment of members of Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe to the position of shantis has been a much appreciated and discussed topic across the country, heralding a silent revolution.

The State Cabinet’s decision to hold reservation to Devaswom appointments for the economically backward members of forward classes was widely discussed and lauded nation-wide. The decision also includes 10% reservation for economically backward

members of forward classes and to increase the reservation of those sections who are already eligible for reservation. To ensure transparency, Devaswom appointments are to be made only through the Devaswom Recruitment Board. For purposes such as submitting applications, a new online portal ‘Devajalika’ has been opened.

Temple Land Reclamation A special Devaswom Tribunal will be formed to reclaim the land that belongs to the temple.

A draft bill for the same is being prepared. A special funding scheme is being implemented for the protection of the kaavu, aalthara and pond associated with the Temple. The draft bill is being prepared to amend the 1951 Madras Hindu Religious Organization Act for raising the welfare and efficiency of the temple and staff under Malabar Devaswom Board.

Development Projects for Sree Padmanabhaswamy, Sabarimala, Guruvayur Temple Major projects were undertaken for the overall development of

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the temples of Sri Padmanabhaswamy, Sabarimala and Guruvayur Temples.

The Temple Development Schemes submitted by the State Government to the Central Government under the Swadeshi Darshan and Prasad Schemes were approved. The Kerala Government’s proposals were deemed exemplary by the respective departments.

Rest House Complexes for Sabarimala Pilgrims The state government has envisaged a budget of Rs 304 crore for Sabarimala alone. The state government has decided to construct 37 complexes in temples which provide modern facilities for rest and hiking to the pilgrims. As part of the initial phase, steps have been taken to construct rest-house complexes in 11 temples. An amount of Rs 10 crore has been allocated for the construction of rest house complexes in each temple. The decision to digitize and prepare the inventory of gold and silverware stored in the strong rooms of the temples under the Travancore Devaswom board is to protect the temple wealth from falling into the wrong hands and to prevent corruption.

COVER STORY

Ananthapuri the mighty capital of

!

God’s Own Country Sam Alex P J

T

hiruvananthapuram still holds all the grandeur of the Capital of the erstwhile Kingdom of Travancore.

The city’s former name, Trivandrum, was given by the British and is a contraction of Thiruvananthapuram, its ancient name that was adopted again in the early 21st century. The community became prominent under Raja Martanda Varma, who made it the capital of his kingdom of Travancore in 1745. History spanning over centuries lingers in every nook and corner of this majestic city.

Surrounded by a pool of water, on

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the hot plains of Trivandrum, lies the Sri Padmanabhaswami temple. Built in the 16th century, it is dedicated to the deity of Lord Vishnu. The temple stands as one of the finest example of the marvels of Dravidian architecture. A treasure valued at US$21.72 billion was recently discovered in the temple’s dungeons making it the richest temple in the world.

Palayam, situated at the heart of the city, is full of surprising history which many of us might not be aware of. The shining memories

of a long-gone era! Palayam is the Malayalam term to refer to cantonment, a military garrison.

Surrounded by the Ganapathi temple, Juma Masjid and St.Joseph’s church, Palayam is a fine exemplar of religious harmony in Kerala, which is of great significance in today’s world.

It was in the 18th century, when Marthanda Varma’s nephew Karthika Thirunal Rama Varma became Maharaja upon the former’s death, the capital of Travancore was shifted from Padmanabhapuram

to Trivandrum. During this time, soldiers belonging to the Travancore Nair Brigade and cavalry brought with them two Ganapathi idols and a Hanuman idol. One of the Ganapathi idols was dedicated to the Pazhavangadi temple and the latter was placed at Palayam where soldiers camped. The Hanuman idol decorated a temple near the current legislative assembly building, which became one of the official temples of the Mounted Cavalry of the Nair Brigade. That is how Palayam came into existence. Even under the British rule, Palayam served as the cantonment area under the princely state of Travancore.

The British rule facilitated a large intake of Christian and Muslim soldiers into the army. In 1814, Maharaja Swathi Thirunal erected a mosque at Palayam for the Muslim soldiers and around 60 years later a Christian church was also built adjacent to it, the Palayam Juma Masjid and St. Joseph’s Church respectively. The Christian church was built in the period of Sri Ayilyam Thirunal. These religious centers stand as the imposing landmarks of the religious harmony of the city and architectural marvel.

The Palayam Market was established during 1857, when Sri Uthradam Thirunal was the Maharaja of Travancore mainly to supply day to day essential commodities to the army and their families. It is one of the oldest markets in this part of the country and presently August 2018

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serves as one of the major shopping hubs of the city. The red arch gate at the front also holds a slice of history. The arched gate which leads to the market was inaugurated

by Sir Connemara, Governor of Madras Presidency on his visit to Thiruvananthapuram in 1888 and the market was named Connemara market in his honour. The recently renovated market has merged with the Saphalyam Complex adjacent to it.

The market flourished and witnessed great influx of sellers and customers from distant lands.

Farmers came from rural areas to sell their harvests at the market.

The then-Maharaja brought in the coastal residents of Kanyakumari region to sell fish and even provided accommodation for them in Kunnukuzhi village. To this day, the majority of sellers hail from the Kunnukuzhi village and neighboring areas.

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Dating back to 1830, the public library near Palayam is one of the oldest in the country. Maharaja Swati Thirunal Rama Varma, a keen admirer of music and literature was the mastermind behind the library.

King Visakham Thirunal Rama Varma founded the Fine Arts College in 1888. A number of distinguished artists and art educators have nurtured the legacy of this pioneer institution.

Being a repository of knowledge and information, the Kerala University had fostered generations of learners, scholars and teachers.

One of the first 16 Universities in India, the University of Kerala was founded as the University of Travancore in 1937 by the last Maharaja of Travancore, Sri Chithira Thirunal Balarama Varma. Madras University was one of the prominent universities in South India at that time. The University of Kerala was the result of the unsatisfactory desire of the Maharaja to build a better university in Kerala. Sri Chithira Thirunal Balarama Varma was also the first Chancellor of the University. The nearby University College was initially founded as the Maharaja’s Free School by

Maharaja Swathi Thirunal in 1834, with Mr. John Roberts, a Christian missionary as Headmaster, and soon grew into a college in 1866.

The prominent football stadium in Kerala, Chandrasekharan Nair Stadium was constructed in honor of the first Inspector General of Police of Kerala, Shri. N. Chandrasekharan Nair in 1956. The stadium was built on the open ground where soldiers used to take a stroll while camped at Palayam.

Balikudeerangale.., the revolutionary song which has been cherished by generations for over 60 years, made its debut here in Trivandrum. Penned as a tribute to the revolutionaries, who laid down their lives during India’s first freedom struggle, the song was created by the famous Vayalar Ramavarma - G Devarajan Master 42

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Duo. The song was first sung on the occasion of inauguration of the Martyrs’ Column at Palayam at the 100th anniversary of India’s first war of Independence. The Martyrs’ Column was inaugurated in 1957

by Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India.

The Ganapathi Temple, Juma Masjid, St. Joseph’s Church, Martyrs’ Column, University of Kerala, University College, Saphalyam complex, MLA Hostel, Chandrasekharan Nair Stadium, Public Library & Fine Arts College – the places that hold prominent role in the social, political, economical history of the state capital. These provide a sense of pride about our forgotten history, which every Malayali can cherish about, especially ones in Trivandrum.

FESTIVAL

Chilanka

Rural Fest 2018 Kerala is a treasure trove of cultural heritage that has shaped the lives of its people. The Sivaparvathy Cultural Society, recognizes the importance of Kerala’s rich tradition as core of our socio-cultural life.

Registered under Travancore Charitable Societies Act with the objective to promote

and sustain cultural, religious, charitable, educational, and literary activities, and to provide a forum for exchanging ideas and views with various national and international organizations of similar interest, Sivaparvathy Cultural Society brings innovative ways to preserve, 44

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celebrate and cultivate our cultural relics. The CHILANKA RURAL FEST is a yearly fest organized by the Society with the intention of nurturing and familiarising the local residents as well as afficianados in the classical art and dance forms. The event gives a platform to showcase talents as well as the different performances of the art forms. The show is honoured by eminent personalities from the different fields of art .

Our patron is the eminent and veteran artist Sri Kavalam Narayana panicker.

Veteran Actor Nedumudi Venu is holding the position of Chief Patron of the Society . Famous artists and personalities like Sri Dinesh Panicker( Film producer and artist), MG Sasi Bhooshan ( Historian) serve as our advisors and are involved in conducting the regular as well as special programs. We have affiliations with Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Academy and Kerala Folklore Academy.

Chilanka Rural Fest 2015

The Chilanka Rural Fest 2015 was kick started with the unveiling of the logo by the Hon. Home Minister Mr Ramesh Chennithala in November 2014. Five students who wish to pursue dance were selected through a rigorous screening process. Invitations were sent out to various schools around Venjaramood for participating in the dance competition.

Chilanka Rural Fest 2015 Ras Auditorium, Venjaramood 9, 10 January, 2015 Day 1 Chilanka Rural Fest 2015 was inaugrated by the Hon. Minister for Health and Devaswom Mr V.S Sivakumar. The auspices were followed a Bharatanatyam Dance Competition judged by two eminent members of the faculty

of Kalakshetra. A large number of students participated and the judges enlightened the students on the various aspects of the revered art form.

Day 2 The second and final day of the fest was inaugrated by the Hon. Minister for Forest and Transport by Mr Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan.

The Chief Guest of the day was Mr V M Sudheeran. The Sponsor A Child project, one that is very close to our heart, was inaugrated and 5 students from impoverished backgrounds were selected to be mentored under the guidance of Kalakshetra Malavika to pursue dance until arangettam.

Felicitations Chilanka Rural Fest 2015 honoured and felicitated the eminent personalities who contributed significantly in the field of arts and culture. The winners of the competitions were awarded cash prize and mementos. This August 2018

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was followed by a spectacular Mohiniyattam performance by Ms Jaya Prabha Menon and crew.

The concluding event was the mesmerising performance of Kalakshetra Malavika and students of the Shiva Parvathy Dance School.

Chilanka Rural Fest 2016 The logo for the 2016 edition of Chilanka Rural Fest was unveiled by the Hon.Chief Minister of Kerala at his residence in November 2015.

Chilanka Rural Fest 2016 Ras Auditorium, Venjaramood & Govt HSS, Venjaramood 9, 10 & 11 January, 2016

The Chilanka Rural Fest 2016 was spread over three days starting with a book fair by Bhasha Institute, Balasahitya institute , Sasthra Sahitya Parishath, exhibition of nilambur clay arts , RK Painting, Bamboo Craft and Health Expo by Indian Medical Association and Nammude Aarogyam which was inaugurated at the premises of Govt HSS Venjaramood on 8th of January 2016.

The Cultural Programmes of the Chilanka Rural Fest 2016 was inaugrated by Her Highness Princess Aswathi Thirunal Gouri Lekshmi Bayi.

The Chief Guest of the event was Mr Sashi Kumar, Founder of Asianet.

This was followed by a Kathak 46

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perfomance by Smt Manisha Gulyani in collaboration with ICCR which held the crowd spellbound.

A Bharatanatyam performance by Kalakshetra Malavika and team also emgrossed the audience.

The valedictory function was held at the school premises which was inagurated by Shri Palode Ravi (Deputy Speaker, Govt of Kerala) and Mr V Madhusoodanan Nair, the renowned poet, was the guest of honour.

The Sponsor A Child project selected 3 students suffering from dyslexia from the Travancore National School to guide and aid.

Temple art forms like kootiyattam by Margi and Mudiyettu by Keezhillam Unnikrishnan and party wound up the event in a spectacular fashion.

Chilanka Rural Fest 2017

The 2017 edition of the Chilanka Rural Fest was inaugurated by Mr. Vinson M Paul IPS, Chief Information Commissioner of Kerala.

The cultural events and attractions included a Manipuri dance by Pradeep Singh and group from Manipur , Bharathanatyam by Kalakshetra Malavika and group, Baul Demonstration by Parvathy Baul, Malapulyattam by Jagadish Marayoor and Group, Yoga Dance by Uma’s Nutri yoga, and Nadan pattu

by Jayachandran Kadambanad and team.

The Chilanka Rural Fest 2017 marked the beginning of the awarding of the KAVALAM

PURASKARAM, which was the highlight of the event. The honour was awarded to the Veteran Actor of Malayalam Cinema Sri. Nedumudi Venu. The award was presented by Saradamani Narayana Panicker wife of Late Kavalam Narayana Panicker.

The fest included other highlighting events such as Handicraft Exhibition by the Kerala Handicraft development corporation , book fair by Kerala Shastra Sahitya Parishath, Seminar on Youth Development led by Dr. Achuthsankar S Nair, Director, Centre for Bioinformatics, University of Kerala.

Striding Proudly Forward: Chilanka Rural Fest 2018

The inspiring success of the Chilanka Rural Fest has paved way for an even better Fest for 2018. The Fest is planned to be held on the second week of October 2018 at Venjaramood, Trivandrum, Kerala. Plans are underway to further expand the Chilanka Rural Fest 2018. This is aimed by promoting and spreading out the cultural programmes and attract more local , national and international audience by conducting classical dance, folk art, Literary festival, exhibitions, seminars etc in association with various Govt and nongovernmental organizations. The Sivaparvathy Cultural Society aims at taking the Chilanka Rural Fest to greater heights.

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SHOPPING

CZARINA’S ONAM COLLECTION Making Waves in the CITY

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aunched on August 1, Czarina’s gorgeous new Onam Collection is already making waves in the city.

Women searching for the perfect gift this festive season are now heading straight to Trivandrum’s leading designer boutique. A spellbinding collection of Onakodis awaits them at Czarina, including the traditional set mundu, a new range of designer Kerala sarees starting from Rs. 1500, and exquisite partywear specials. Czarina’s Kerala saree, known for its understated elegance and embellished with block print, mural paintings and embroidery, is the highlight of this year’s Onam Collection. Handpainted with fabric colours, the intricate murals on these sarees endows them with a unique look.

In addition to the trendsetting festive apparel, Czarina is also showcasing a wide variety of other sarees this Onam. Kotas, Chanderis,

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Maheshwaris, Banarasi Silks, Silk Kota, Kanjeevarams, Uppads, Tussar Silks, Georgettes, Crepes and Chiffons are available in a range of colours and designs. Czarina also has blouse materials and readymade blouses in various styles and designs like Kalamkari, indigo print, floral designs, embroidery and Ikkat, among others. For those who prefer a non-traditional Onam, there is an array of salwars, kurtis, lehengas and ghagra cholis on display.

The Onam Collection ends on August 24 and the showroom will be open on all Sundays till then.

Czarina is located at Catholic Centre, on Statue-General Hospital Road.

To know more about the Onam Collection, visit Czarina’s Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/ CzarinaDesignerSarees or call 9387721322.

DINING

End Your Thirst With The Taste Of

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hether it is seasonal or all-season fruit juices, ‘Dessi Cuppa’ as the name denotes provides it with an influence of the countryside. For those who want to get a mix of health and variety in their juices or soft drinks, Dessi Cuppa gives just that. They have created their own delicious, carefully crafted lassi, mocktails, smoothie, and krushers that anyone can enjoy. For the protein conscious people Protein drinks are offered. Located across Kerala, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Bangalore and Dubai through franchises, Dessi Cuppa has made a mark for itself among those who opt for taste, hygiene and variety. It is the intention of ‘Dessi Cuppa’ to dominate the cold drinks market and take it to the international level.

Could you elaborate on the journey of Dessi Cuppa? Has the vision for the establishment changed, if so how?

The journey was not easy. As you know for any establishment to taste success they go through a lot of starting trouble. But we overcame all the issues and now reached this position. This is just a start. I hope we will gain more expansion of our business.

In Sha Allah.

What are your specialties and fastmoving products?

Mr. Sajid Theruvath & Mr. Faisal Mohammed Shafi 52

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We have a lot of Specialties. As you can see there are varieties of drinks like Lassi, Smoothie, shakes, etc. The Menu has been planned in such a manner that we make sure we serve optimum quality with proper quantity. Among fast-moving products, there are products like Mississippu Mud, Belgian Chips, Blue Lime, some of the Lassi flavours, and many more.

What is your customer profile and how has it grown over the years?

Customer profile depends on the location of the shop. We might have a particular kind of crowd in Kerala, but in Bangalore and Mumbai it is different. So we never had a particular profile in mind. All we want is that no matter which customer comes to Dessi Cuppa, when he leaves our shop he should be satisfied.

What new projects have you envisioned for your future?

From the start, expansion of the brand is our prime motto. We are holding on to it.

We have already began operations in almost every major city in India and recently in Dubai. We would like to expand the brand to International

levels.

What in your opinion is the criterion to be a healthy/ customer-friendly eatery?

Hygiene has to be maintained and it should be strictly followed, because every customer who comes to your shop is spending to eat something good. If we are failing to do so, then we are doing no good. If the customer trusts us, then it is our responsibility to deliver to the customer.

You are a recipient of Metro Food Awards.

What was your reaction when you received it?

Metro Food Awards is not just an award.

It is an appreciation from Kochi city for our product quality and the way we have maintained hygiene standards for our customers. So I am grateful and equally proud to accept the award.

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RECIPE

PAVAKKA PITTALAI

Pavakka Pittalai is ready The Pavakka Pittalai is a deliciously flavoured curry that transforms the bitter gourd into a mouth watering dish. Bitter gourd or Pavakka has a reputation of not being on everyone’s favorites list, and mine was no different.

My mom used to prepare this dish quite often, much to my dislike as a child. However, my mother’s culinary magic found its seat in my taste buds forever as I slowly started liking this dish with time.

It was about the time I finished high school that I truly fell in love with this delicious preparation.

Here is the recipe to Pavaka Pittalai that you can savour.

Raja Gopalal Iyer

Chief Executive Officer

Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Resort & Spa, Trivandrum

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Ingredients Bitter Gourd (Pagarkkai, Pavakka) - 1 large Tamarind - small lemon sized Coriander seeds - 1 tsp Chana Dal - 1 tsp Dry Red Chilli - 2-3 Black Pepper - 4-5 Salt - to taste Turmeric powder - 1/4 tsp Oil - 2-3 tbsp Grated coconut - 4-5 tbsp Toor Dal (Split Red Lentils) - 1/2 cup For Tempering Grated coconut - 1 tsp Mustard seeds - 1 tsp Fenugreek seeds - 1/4 tsp Curry leaves - 1 sprig Asafoetida (hing) powder - 1/4 tsp Method 1. Wash and slice the Bitter Gourd (Pavakka) into thin slices.

2. Heat oil in a Kadai and saute the Bitter Gourd pieces till it becomes crisp. Keep it aside.

3. In the same Kadai, fry the Coriander seeds, Chana Dal, Red Chilli, Black Pepper and grated Coconut. Cool and grind it to a smooth paste.

4. Boil the Toor Dal separately till it becomes soft and keep aside.

5. In the Kadai, add the Pavakka, Turmeric powder, Salt and boil till the raw smell fades away.

6. Add the ground masala, boiled Tuvar Dal and bring it to a boil.

7. Temper with ingredients mentioned above. Switch off flame.

SHOPPING

HANTEX Gets IMAGE MAKEOVER

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erala is the only state in India that supplies its own handloom products woven by traditional artisans in energy efficient looms.

Hantex, the sole protective umbrella for the weavers in the co- operative sector in Kerala to market the products of weaver’s co-operative societies have been undergoing an overhaul recently. The name Hantex is the society’s trade name.

Hantex under the strong leadership of Managing Director, K S Anilkumar have witnessed great improvements and could soon become a high-visibility presence in the Indian market. His inventive ideas are enabling Hantex progress amidst several hurdles.

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In conjunction with the state government’s efforts to revive the handloom sector, K.S. Anilkumar has been weaving new strategies to attract the new generation towards these traditional outfits and make it to their wardrobes. He has successfully accomplished the humongous task of computerizing the entire accounts system and implemented an efficient Management Information System (MIS) with assistance from State government.

Hantex has lately begun to make its presence online. Kerala handloom has arrived on the online marketplace. Kerala State Handloom Weavers’ Cooperative

Society Ltd (Hantex) has tied up with leading global online portal amazon.com to make a variety of the traditional Kerala products such as dhotis, sarees, and shirts available for purchase online. Envisaging rejuvenation in the traditional handloom sector, new E-card system is getting ready to be implemented.

Data collection of about 10 lakh employees are being done from Governmental, Semi-governmental and public sector agencies as part of this scheme. The scheme would provide customers with Rs.10,000 as credit which can be used for purchases.

Hantex has 150 showrooms spread across the state and there are plans to renovate them or build anew. There have been proposals to include relocating the outlets to prominent locations and imparting training to the sales staff. The showrooms have been modernized and been implemented with the latest tech. Proficient production plans have been drawn up and applied to control the production as per the requisites of each season.

Hantex has started utilizing the service of professional fashion designers to make handloom clothes a buzz in the market space. Fashion events where supermodels scorched the ramp in handloom outfits are sure to help the handloom sector witness boom in the market. Plans to produce readymade shirts and designer dhotis are gaining momentum. Initiatives are being undertaken to use computerized

databases to connect the weaver’s co-operative societies across the state with help from C-Dit. The government plans to sell products worth ₚ100 crore this year through the changes proposed in the Handloom sector.

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Photographed by Ms. Smitha Prasad

PICTURE Page

The