Red feb 2015 website by RED MAGAZINE

` 50/FEBRUARY 2015 | VOL. 04 | ISSUE 05

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H M ot W an h je ee er ls a M Su an sh Vi an ve t k

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Red Gadgets 88 Go geeky, go gadgety. Turn the pages to bring home convenience with the new range of Gadgets & Gizmos which have redâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s thumbs-up

Red Haute She was christened a queen, with the name Regina and she is doing complete justice to it if her rise up popularity chart is anything to go by.

Red Life For over two decades he has been prescribing panacea for many. Ramesh shows one how to take a chill pill even on a serious note.

Red Eve

She packs smiles in boxes, and holds her priced dessert recipes close to heart. Radhika Satish reveals the ingredients to fame.

She is a revolutionary in her own right, disregarding the age-old burntout methods of teaching, Swetha Manthena has carved out a new path

Red Dazzle 80

Red Trade His goodwill precedes him and his actions leave you spellbound, meet Adari Tulasi Rao, Chairman of Visakha Diary.

76 Red GenX

Red GenX

Wheeling past his competition in automobile industry, Sushant Tummala takes you on a test drive through the road to success.

Building homes and hopes alike, this young mogul of Manjeera, Vivek Anand Gajjala was born to be an entrepreneur.

The world of jewellery has no boundaries. The more you see the more you get mesmerized. Here is a veteran player crafting such incredible pieces with diamonds, emeralds and more.

Red Trade The cousins designed their own dream and realised it too. Let's hear the 'Inside Story' of interior designers Raashi & Umang

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Publisher Chandra Mouli Tippala Executive Director T V Vijaya Kumari Editor-in-Chief V Sarada Asst. Editor Sumana Reddy Sr. Feature Writer Ranita Ray Feature Writer Neeta Nair Sr. Photographers Dhana Vijay Dinakar Pamu Sr. Designer K Shankar Image Processing P Venkatesh General Manager - Marketing Rajesh Babu Guntu Dy. General Manager - Advertising Selvaraj Dominic Dy. General Manager - Circulation Faheem Siddiqui Asst. Manager - Advertising B V S Appa Rao A Hanma Kranthi Kumar Pankhuri Suri K Niranjan Shaik Md Ali Eswar Rao R B S N Satish Sr. Executives - Subscription & Sales P Ajay A Santosh Accounts & Admin. R Chaitanya Kumar Front Ofce Staf Paul Publication Consultant K Raghuram Raju Design Strategy

Printed, Published and Owned by Chandra Mouli Tippala. Printed at Kalajyothi Process Pvt. Ltd., 1-1-60/5, RTC X Roads Hyderabad - 500 020. Published at Red Publications D. No. 14-36-9, Vikas Nagar, Pedagantyada, Gajuwaka, Dist. Visakhapatnam, AP. Editor: Tippala Divya Reddy.

red | february 2015 | 20

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

A recent chart indicates that Chandrababu Naidu is woefully lagging behind his counterpart K.Chandrasekhar Rao in online popularity race, of course not without reason. While Babu is not able to translate his pre-poll promises into reality even after eight months in power, highly dynamic KCR is aggressively pushing his agenda, unceremoniously getting rid of non-performers. Zero tolerance to inefciency and capacity to take instant decisions appear to be his hallmark. Meanwhile, opposition leader Y.S.Jagan Mohan Reddy is leaving no stone unturned to expose the TDP lacunae. The warm response he has garnered for the recent farmers’ dharna speaks of Jagan’s growing popularity and people’s disillusionment with Babu. This is certainly a wake up call for Babu who has been sleeping on many crucial issues. It is time he took a leaf out of KCR’s book. In step with the mood of Valentine’s Day, we splash ravishing Regina on the cover. Wearing her heart on her sleeves, the diva airs her V-Day views. Mr.P.Ramesh Babu, Chairman of SMS Pharmaceuticals swallowed quite a few bitter pills before he tasted sweet success. His Life story reveals it all. Radhika Satish may call it a pastry-smooth journey but anyone in the eld of confectionary vouches for the heat one faces to keep the products oven-fresh and fast moving. Swetha Manthena believes that ‘all studies and no play’ is not good for children and runs a unique school on her own terms. Eve is the segment that talks of their progress in their respective elds. Sushant has driven Renault into Vizag and the local automobile industry onto a fast track. Vivek Anand has his ngers in many pies but his mainstay is construction. He is the best boss, stress his employees whose interests take precedence over the rest of his concerns. Want to know more about them? Look up GenX columns. Mr. Tulasi Rao while bettering the lives of nearly two lakh dairy farmers, has developed Visakha Dairy into an unbeatable enterprise. Trade is what he has on his mind, but his heart brims with milk of kindness for the underprivileged. Taking the readers to the other side of the spectrum we talk of a young duo, who create luxuriously cosy corners with their interior designing skills. Meet Raashi and Umang. Chandana helped her husband build an edice called Amar Concept Schools. Every brick of this structure reveals her contribution. Karishma Jain is the rst one to serve high-quality tableware of premium brands on a silver platter to Hyderabadis. We Focus on this winsome duo. Certainly it is a lot of food for thought while your heart sings V-tunes. Wishing you a gala Valentine’s Day.

Chandra Mouli Tippala, Publisher red | february 2015 | 22

VIZAG

CELEBRATING HARD WORK The employees of Phoenix IT solutions are clearly one happy bunch now, with the company honouring them for their role in putting the rm in the path of success. Celebrating the anniversary of their service sector wing, the management decided to hold an awards function to recognize talent, ranging from Best Employee Awards, to honouring those who brought good name to the company in the eld of sports. No award function can be complete without a cultural programme, and the Pheonix management had taken good care of that by organizing dance and mimicry shows to entertain their employees. Pydah Krishna Prasad, Chairman of the Pydah Group of colleges presided over the event which was attended by over 500 employees.

STUDENT BAGS BUMPER PRIZE Cell Point lucky draw lled jubilance in the air, especially for student Jayasree of Visakhapatnam as she won the bumper prize, an Alto car at the Lucky Draw. The outlet has celebrated its 15th anniversary. Chief guest P.G.V.R. Gana Babu, MLA handed over the keys of a car and ve Pulsar bikes to the other winners and said, “It is heartening to note that Cell Point which started with an outlet at Daba Gardens grew in leaps and bounds and today it has as many as 67 showrooms across two Telugu states. I wish it all the best and hope to see it going to other states too.” Apart from the Owner Mohan Prasad Pande, Cell Point Director Balaji Pande, winners of lucky draw- G. Venkateswara Rao (Bhimavaram), R. Narayan Rao( Srikakulam), P. Raja Rao (East Godavari), K. Ramachandra(Anakapalle) and K.V.Patnaik(Vizag) participated in the event.

SHRADDHA DAS AT WOMAN’S WORLD Glamour is in and the ladies of Visakhapatnam won’t be left far behind, especially with ‘Woman’s World’ around. They call themselves the planet of fashion and the city can’t but agree, especially after taking a look at the recently launched Bridal Wear at their mega showroom. The special discount offers were an added attraction. Panache was in the air, as Telugu star Shraddha Das walked into the showroom clad in a yellow sari, oozing oomph, to inaugurate their bridal wear. All eyes were on Shraddha as she checked out the exclusive wedding collection. Soon after she tweeted for the world to know that she was all praise for the array of choices the store had to offer to the would-be brides.

WINSOME WEDDING WEAR Novotel had become the hub of all wedding shopping recently with a grand two-day exhibition organized by Mrs.Santhi Kathiravan. The Trendz Vivah Collection, after becoming a big hit in Hyderabad, managed to win hearts in Vizag too. With 44 designers showcasing their talent and 1000 unique designs on display, the shopaholics clearly had a lot to choose from. There was another special feature this time- the home dĂŠcor collection handpicked for the discerning customers. Shanthi has been successfully conducting exhibitions across South India with participants from all over India. One would be spoilt for choice, seeing the wide range of designer blouses, silver jewellery, dress materials, kurtis, lehengas and home accessories.

VIZAG

UTSAV REFLECTS THE SOUL OF VIZAG Eight years after the Visakha Utsav enthralled the audiences, the event was back with a bang. It got off to a colourful start with performances like Dhimsa, Kollatam, Hari Katha and Burra Katha which aptly captured the essence of the region. But the biggest crowd puller was Danseuse Shobhana's mesmerising dance ballet on the last day. The calisthenics performance by a South African troupe mesmerized Vizagites, while the sight of illuminated ď&#x20AC; shing boats and ď&#x20AC; reworks in sea left the spectators at RK Beach begging for more. The Union Urban Development Minister M.Venkaiah Naidu inaugurated the three-day event which was aimed at promoting Vizag as one of the potential tourist destinations of the world.

red | february 2015 | 28

VIZAG

MATHEMATICAL MARVEL ON DISPLAY School of Wonder Kids has made it again. Recently it organized one-of-its-kind event at Kalabharati in which 31 UKG students showed their genius by solving 100 mathematical calculations orally without using pencil and paper. The questions included subtraction, multiplication, ascending and descending orders etc. from the syllabus of standard two and three, which tiny tots solved only in 10 minutes, 20 seconds. The school got featured in the India Book of Records on the same day. While Mr.G.S.N. Raju, V-C, AU was the chief guest, other notable names present for the event were Dr.B.Muniswamy, HOD, Dept of Statistics, Prof.P.Rangarao, HOD, Dept of Mathematics, AU and J.Pruthvi Raj, President Bar association, Vizag, besides the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Director, M.Ramu Naidu and Principal, M.Vani.

red | february 2015 | 30

VIZAG

FAMILY DAY AT HAWA MAHAL Vizag Round Table 77,which is involved with several social causes like building schools for the underprivileged, conducted the RTI Republic Carnival at Hawa Mahal, Beach Road. It was aimed at bringing families together by organizing activities like Tambola, lucky draws, games, putting up stalls selling food, fashion accessories, clothing, home decor and kitchenware. There was a photo booth where one could avail instant photos, aided by Epson using their latest technology of mobile instant photo printer. The kids participated in a painting competition and enjoyed balloon shooting, car racing, bouncing bed and break the pyramid. The prices for the Lucky Draw, sponsored by Yes Mart, included washing machine, Samsung Tab and other home appliances. Tambola was sponsored by Woman's World, Dhara Boutique, Naturals, The Park Hotels and Hotel Landmark.

red | february 2015 | 32

VIZAG

KIRLAMPUDI ON SMART PATH With an objective to introduce some smart initiatives in Kirlampudi that would showcase the colony as smart community, CitYzen, the CSR arm of Phoenix IT Solutions, alongwith Kirlampudi Residents' Welfare Association(KRWA), launched 'Lets Get Smart Kirlampudi' on the Republic Day. The meeting, where an MoU was signed between Mrs.Vani Gannamani, Director Phoenix IT solutions and Mr.D.Somayajulu, President, KRWA, was attended by 300 people. Chief guests for the event were MP Dr. Kambhampati Haribabu and Minister of HRD Mr.Ganta Srinivas Rao. Guests of honour for the event were-MLA Mr.Velagapudi Ramakrishna Babu, Visakhapatnam Port Trust Chairman Mr.M.T.Krishna Babu and GVMC Commissioner Mr.Pravin Kumar. Jija Valsaraj, Jayshree Kambhampati,Uday Shirname, Rajini Chitra, Hema Swamy, Hakim Mehdi, K.R.B Prakash, Satish and Ramesh were among a few prominent personalities present.

red | february 2015 | 34

VIZAG

BIG

SANKRANTI

BASH

t was a big Sankranti bash this season at businessman Krishnakanthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s residence.The tone of the celebrations was set by lighting Bhogi Mantalu at 4.00 am, followed by a puja. The festival was celebrated in style by over 250 guests who attended the party. The invitees include Prabhu Kishore of Novotel, Mallik of Kankatala, Murali Krishna Gannamani, CEO, Pheonix IT Solutions Ltd., Seshubabu of Sreekanya Group, Krishna Prasad, Chairman of Pydah Group of Educational Colleges and Chandu Tippala, CMD, red magazine.

Shoot by Dhana Vijay

red | february 2015 | 36

red | february 2015 | 37

HYDERABAD Chaitanya

Alok & Shashi Nahata

Dr_Kamala Yamini

Sheetal Nahata

MAIDEN VENTURE, YET A BIG SUCCESS Following her mother’s footsteps, Sheetal Nahata held her very rst exhibition at Taj Krishna. As the city was buzzing with weddings and parties, her two-day exhibition showcasing renowned designers became a big hit. The show was inaugurated by Dr.Kamala. Though Sheetal is a rst timer, she could attract a good number of customers and draw accolades. Harshita, Karishma, Madhavi, Nikita, Sahita, Shreya, Srivani, Vaishnavi, Varsha Jaiswal and Yamini were spotted here. Varsha Jaiswal

Saba Khan

Tanmeet

Koyal

Nitika

Neeru Mohan

Manisha Kapoor

red | february 2015 | 38

A PINK AFFAIR Ladies of the Pink Club are always game for pleasurable engagements. They gathered for a pre-Republic Day Celebration at Taj Deccan. However, to continue the traditions of a theme for every event, they organised a workshop for their members which throws light on how to maintain blemishfree skin. The famed Mansi Gulati demonstrated face-yoga, a natural way to look young. To spin-in some fun, they all turned up in white and got themselves tattooed by the artists present there. This exclusive session was graced by Alekya, Bhavana, Bina Singh, Koyal, Mansi, Neeru Mohan, Puja, Runky, Saba Khan, Tanmeet and Uzma.

HYDERABAD Shilpa Reddy

Swaranjit Sen & family

Krishna

UNIQUE EVENT Charosa Vineyards held a grape stomping event at the Hyderabad Golf Club on the eve of the kite festival. Organised by Pedhapally Kishan, who is known for his thematic events, this fun gala was a great hit with participants zealously taking part. Guests Anushka, Apoorva, Divya, Garima, Krishna, Lata, Manisha Kapoor, Manvika, Natasha, Nishma, Priyanka, Rachna, Rummy Azad, Trushna and Sonali were seen thoroughly enjoying this uncommon activity.

Garima

Kishan

Sachin & Nanda

Hema & Sudhir

Vinitha & Ajay red | february 2015 | 40

Brij Gopal & Deepali

Vaishnavi

Kanan

KAI PO CHE KITE FESTIVAL January, the month of Sankranti was a busy time for the kite-ď&#x20AC;&#x201A;yers as they were spotted with their best kites at the cricket grounds in Medchal. Brij Bhutada, Amita Nahata and Sachin Bhutada played the perfect hosts to their guests- JCI members. The revellers were seen having a good time from the word go as the hosts organised a string of entertaining competitions like slowcycling race and skipping, besides the traditional patang contest. Anil Agarwal, Bijal, Chirangee, Harshita, Hema, Kanchi, Muskaan, Renu, Riddhi, Sangeeta, Sonal, Usha Jain and Vidhi graced the event.

HYDERABAD Ritu Dalmia, Vanita Bagaria Kanodia, Namita Kanodia,Ruhi , Savitha Bansal & Archana Dalmia

Neeru

BIG LABELS & HUGE FOOTFALL Khwaaish, known for its exquisite designs and exclusive designers from across the country, held Sankranti and Wedding special exhibition at Taj Krishna recently. Inaugurated by Ruhi Singh- Miss Universal Peace and Humanity 2014, the fair presented diverse collection from traditional to contemporary, Indian to western, jewellery to home decor, shoes to bags and a variety of other products. Displaying their collection in Khwaaish for the very ď&#x20AC; rst time, Vijay Rana and Hitesh were a hit. Fish Dart, Flaunt, Toxic, Kritika, Stones & Silver, Aaliyah are few of the labels that were prominent at the expo. Spotted among the shoppers were Aliya, Bharathi, Chandini, Harika, Honey, Hindu, Jaya, Ksheera, Mansi, Priya and Ranjita.

Honey

Bharathi Sikhand & Sunila Eti

red | february 2015 | 42

Saritha Lohiya

Aliya

Pavani

Mansi

Jaya

Indu

Priyanka

HYDERABAD Srini & Fara

Kalyan

Pallavi

Anupama

MESMERISING MAESTROS Versatile singer Padmashri Hariharan and Tabla legend Ustad Zakir Hussain presented a jugalbandi as part of their Live in Concert held at Cyberabad Convention Center. Music-lovers and the Gazal-fans were mesmerized by their performance. Hariharan sung his most sought-after Gazal Root Gaye More Banke from his album “Lahore ke Rang Hari Ke Sang”, “Hamne kaati hai teri yaadon me raaten”, “Kuch Door Hamare Saath”. Anjali, Chandana, Gurpreet, Navya, Neetu, Pallavi, Sachin, Shraddha, Soujanya, Supriya, Surabhi, Vidhu, Vineet and Gurpreet were among the connoisseurs at the concert. Mounika & Anjali

Nick & Caroline

Rajaiah

Supraja Rao

Tamanna & Rachana

Neetu

Neelima Naidu

HYDERABAD Kali Sudheer

KAMAL SHOW A BIG DRAW Muse Art gallery was ď&#x20AC;&#x201A;ooded with guests for a rendezvous with none other than Kamal Kama Raju, the renowned artist. His solo show titled Rani was showcased in the gallery for a fortnight. While the event was a success, guests followed a dress code- with base colour being black. Abhineeta and Santo, Ananya, Chitra, Harika, Harini, Kamini Saraf, Kiran Dembla, Manasa, Megha, Nyshita, Rangoli, Sanjay, Sudhakar, Swati and Usha were spotted at the show.

Sumanth

Sanjay Harini

Shruthi

Sridhar

Jwala Gutta Sudhakar

Raunaq Yar Khan

Sirisha red | february 2015 | 46

HYDERABAD Sakina

Asmita Marwa

Hameeda

HEADY PARTY Neeta Kumar organised a wine-tasting event at the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most upmarket home dĂŠcor facility- Inhabit. Wine enthusiasts sipped their drinks while catching up with friends. Guests, dressed in their stylish best, conversed about the latest on the grapevine, as they nibbled on starters. Wine enthusiast Shamita Singha treated the guests to a tasting session. Asmita Marwa, Chandini, Hameda, Preeti, Ritu Singh, Saket Talwar, Sakina, Shivani, Sona Chatwani, Swati, Zara and David. Zara & David

Shamita Singha Neeta Kumar & Chaitanya

Sona Chatwani

Swati

Ritu Singh

Preeti

red | february 2015 | 48

Shivani & Bobby

TARUN CASTS A SPELL

HYDERABAD

Tarun Tahiliani with Models Donna

Simranjit Aishwarya

Hameeda

In collaboration with Taj Krishna and Azva by World Gold Council, the Master draper Tarun Tahiliani showcased his collection for men and women especially. Best known for his classic style and distinctive signature Tarun has given vent to his creative best. His creations are a unique blend of traditional Indian sensibility and contemporary environment. Speaking about the event, he said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am happy to showcase my collection in Hyderabad. We love the city and draw inspiration from the culture and the people.â&#x20AC;? Spotted at the fashionable gala were Aishwarya, Archana, Bobby, Bobita, Geetu, Gurleen, Kamini Saraf, Kavitha Reddy, Laila Khan, Lochan, Megha, Deepthi, Pooja, Riya, Usha, Vaishnavi and Zafar.

Manisha

Anand Kabra Manjula Narsa red | february 2015 | 50

Pinky Reddy

Hina Srivastav

Kavitha & Siddhanth

Deepa & Vivek Khurana

Manjoor Alam Khan

Shoot by Dinakar Pamu

Kamini Saraf

Swetha & Amit

Shalu Bhupal & Tina

Imran

Namita Kanodia Neelu Bagga Suhani Pitte

Shilpa Singh Rohit Reddy

red | february 2015 | 51

REVIEW

Spot For Sporty Spirit

izag now is privileged to house ‘LP Sport’, the standalone store for sports and casual wear by the formal wear maker Louis Philippe. Occupying an area of 1,400 sq ft, this store is single-oored and located on Sampath Vinayak Road. “Targetting the 20-30 age group, we offer t-shirts, casual trousers, jackets, denims, accessories and footwear and we already witness a great footfall,” says Prasanth, the franchise owner. Among prêt-à-porter sartorial options for men are bottom-wear collection like chinos, cargos, jeans, corduroy, semi-formal trousers etc and priced up to maximum of Rs.4,999. Fashionistas can take a look at its variegated pants. T-shirts’ and shirts’ price ranges from Rs.199 to Rs.2,499. For a head to toe LP ensemble, you can go for the footwear, especially the trendy loafers. The must-buys are linen shirts and party-wear jackets. There are two trial rooms for convenient selection procedure. The in-house tailor facility is also there. From hankies, ties, belts, wallets, pocket square, cufinks and socks, the accessaries stock appears impressive.

4.5

POOR

AVERAGE

Timings: 10.30am to 10.00pm Ph.no: 0891-2971919

GOOD

red | february 2015 | 52

VERY GOOD

EXCELLENT

Bagels Back In Vizag

f you have some time to kill and hunger pangs are just threatening to wipe your stomach out, then head to Dunkin’ Bagels at Ramnagar. You can choose from a variety of burgers, pizzas, sandwiches and pastries. The name of the restaurant however is a little misleading, because Dunkin’ Bagels has left out Bagels from their menu. However, you can ask the waiter to make some for you if you are there solely to munch on the roll with a hole. You can gorge on chocolate, onion or sesame seeds Bagels. But if you are a burger-fan then you must try the Conti Chicken burger priced at Rs 80 which has coleslaw, chicken and mayo. Another great combo would be their Italian Chicken sandwich and the sinful Chocolate Total Pastry. A lling meal costs you not more than Rs.180. What’s more, they can give you oven fresh 1 kg cakes at a notice of 15 minutes. So what are you waiting for, go indulge.

4.5

POOR

AVERAGE

Timings: 9.30 – 10.30 Ph.No: 9866237777

GOOD

VERY GOOD

EXCELLENT

VIZAG

REVIEW

PICTURE PERFECT FACILITY

t is said- 'Nothing would make a better gift than memories’ and there is no better way to preserve memories than photographyno one does it better than Villart Ramana. With his unique Villart - the Portrait studio, Mr.V.V.Ramanna has been capturing poignant moments in people’s lives since the past 25 years. He has been operating from Hyderabad all this while and now opened the second branch in Visakhapatnam at Lawson Bay Colony. Spreading over a lavish 5000 sq ft, this facility speaks of the volume of work the veteran photographer has already done and what more he can offer. Specializing in varied genres like portraits, portfolios, fashion, industrial, commercial and wedding, he offers his expertise in both indoor and outdoor photography. A grand reception area welcomes the guests where one can ip through various photo albums to get a glimpse of what is in the ofng. Adjacent to it is the hallway which aunts breathtaking shots taken by Mr.Ramana, and they are aesthetically displayed on its wall. The highlight of the facility is the shooting hall. Designed in an area of 18x30x11 dimensions, it is a studio of international standard. It has some of the latest and best equipment, exclusively available here in the entire South-India. A few among them are Rs.40 lakh-worth Hasselblad camera best-suited for corporate portfolios, jewellery and clothing shoots, enlargements etc and cool lighting from the UK. This is perfect for kids’ shoots as it doesn’t have strong sparks like the regular ash. One can get preview and demos of wedding photography and videography, which is Ramana’s forte. For studio shoots one gets pictures within 24 hours. The terrace spreading over 3,000 sq ft also serves as additional space for shoot. For extensive shoots prior booking is required. Avail 25% off on indoor and 40% on outdoor shooting as an inaugural offer. Timings: 9.30 am to 7.30 am (closed on public holidays) Ph.no: 0891- 6512345, 9885100010, www.villart.in

red | february 2015 | 54

POOR

AVERAGE

GOOD

VERY GOOD

EXCELLENT

REVIEW

MEGA SHOPPING HUB

aking your shopping experience to a new high, here comes the mega mall – MVR. The name stands for Most Valued Retailer as well as of the scion of CMR group Mavuri Venkata Ramana. Catering to men and women of all age groups this retail outlet occupies 5,5000 sq ft and spreads over ve oors. The ground oor (at the basement level) aunts an array of silver, gold, platinum and diamond jewellery and artifacts. Do buy the 92.5 sterling antique silver products. Giving perfect value for money are its impressive bridal trinkets. One gets the best assortment of antique, temple, chokers and checkri items here. The next oor offers a wide variety of wedding saris and neries. Sari options are Kanjivaram, Ikkat, Narayanpeta, Pochampally, Akshay Pattu, Uppada, Arani, Bailu, Chanderi, Bhagalpuri, Jaipuri Bandheni, Benarasi and many more. There are glitzy ghagras, which cost between Rs.2,000-Rs.50,000. Men can buy their dhotis here which are available in self and contrast borders. Second oor displays saris in varieties like synthetic (Rs.268- 2000), cotton (Rs.250-500), handloom and Benarasi (Rs.600 -3000). It also stocks readymade and dress materials (cotton & synthetic) for women. Must buys are those elegant oor-length Masakalli chudidars (Rs.2000-22,000) and long frocks (Rs.7,000- 22,000). Third oor has clothing for kids and footwear for every age group. Best buy can be sherwanis, party wear, full suits (for 0 to 10 years) for boys and fancy frocks and ghagra-choli sets for girls (1- 15 years). One gets ladies’ and teen girls’ western wear on this oor. Top oor is exclusively for men’s sartorial needs. From undergarments, sportswear to casual, formal, ethnic and wedding collection, one gets everything here. There are brands of every range. Suiting and shirting with be-spoke tailoring options are there too. Must buys are classy Manyavar sherwanis, Yajman suits and White Club linen shirts and trousers. The two-oor cellar parking makes shopping experience hassle-free. Timings: 10.30 am- 9.00 pm (365 days) | Ph.no: 9010199884

POOR

AVERAGE

GOOD

VERY GOOD

EXCELLENT

red | february 2015 | 55

HYDERABAD

REVIEW

STAY IN(N) HAVELI

lose to the serene Peddamma Temple in Jubilee Hills, Haveli Inn is a premium boutique hotel providing 48 cosy guest rooms and business/ leisure facilities for its customers. Spread across 700 sq yards over three ď&#x20AC;&#x201A;oors, it offers a range of single and double occupancy rooms for Rs.1,500 and Rs.1,900 respectively. This includes complimentary breakfast. This economically priced hotel also houses a restaurant, bakery and coffee shop offering delectable cakes and sumptuous cuisines exclusively for the guests. The restaurant can also be utilized as a banquet hall with a seating capacity of 100 guests for both cluster and round table set up. Guests can use it for engagement parties and rendezvous with friends and family. Targeting the business and holiday travellers from all over, it provides clean bedding and linen, LCD television with cable, free High Speed Wi-Fi Internet access, luxury toiletries, mini refrigerator, hair dryer, tea/coffee maker and safe locker. The interiors are trendy and tasteful. The USP of this hotel is undeniably the locality. It gives good connectivity to the corporate ofď&#x20AC; ces and IT developments in Hi-Tech City, the indoor and athletic stadiums in Gachibowli, convention centres in Madhapur and shopping at Road No. 36. One need not fret over parking as the hotel provides ample space. Caring and personalized services with a 30-member staff are its strong points. Timings: Round-the clock Ph no.: +91 80008912444, +91 9701677444

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POOR

AVERAGE

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VERY GOOD

EXCELLENT

REVIEW

A MATTER OF BEAUTY

ubbles, 11-year-old salon, launched another branch in Cyber Edice, Gachibowli. Its name is synonymous with personal care for hair and beauty. Spread over 2,800 sft, the new branch is already abuzz with customers. Started by pop star and entrepreneur Smita, the salon has established itself as a trustworthy brand and made its presence in Secundrabad, Guntur, Vijayawada and Vizag too. Apart from providing expert services like mani-pedicures, facials, skin care, piercing and nail art, they hold excellent competence in spa, hair- styling and makeup. “We are known for our haircuts, colourings, treatments and styling. We use L’oreal hair products.” said Tanuja, the artistic director of Bubbles- hair and beauty talking about the salon’s USP. “We are booked a month in advance for hair and makeup, especially during the wedding season. Prospective brides call from different countries and book prior appointments even through e-mails,” she added. Using skin-friendly and organic products like Dermalogica and Sea Soul for facials and other services, their specials in facials are Bio- White and Soothie for a radiant looking skin. One can also restore skin softness with massages and body wrap treatments. Chocolate and eminence wraps, with no chemical products, are a must try to rejuvenate your skin. Witnessing 20 customers a day, the salon is well-equipped with private rooms, hair and mani-pedi sections and a 15- member staff. With chic interiors designed by Sanjay Gupta, it also provides plenty of parking space for customers. Targeting the elite crowd in the locality, it actively engages in social media marketing and keeps its customers updated about its new offers through e- mail and SMS. Timings: 8:00 am to 8:00 pm | Ph no.: Venkatesh 040-65151234, +919666424343

POOR

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EXCELLENT

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ALWAYS UP IN ARMS Who says there are no permanent friends or enemies in politics? Look at these two ministers. The self-proclaimed loyalist Ayyanna Patrudu and recently returned to party ‘prodigal’ Ganta have been on clash course right from the word go. The show of bonhomie they put up, sitting on either side of Chandrababu Naidu is nothing but a sham. Not a single day goes by without them hurling barbs at each other. The hapless MLAs don’t know whose line to tow. The rift becomes all the more conspicuous when the leaders refuse to show up on the same platform, whether it is to welcome Sujana Chowdary or to participate in the prestigious Vizag Utsav. One expects some solidarity among the seniors. It is high time they realised that region’s image and welfare should be their rst interest, not settling personal scores. STEELED TO FITNESS Everything about the famed tness trainer and body builder Kunal Gir is brawny. He ensures he is in news either by showing off his chiselled body or by making many grow muscular under his rigorous training. Recently he created a sensation by launching a one-of-its-kind high-end gym STEEL. It is the largest facility in Hyderabad introducing equipment and services the city hasn’t seen before. Even the sound system is designed by an ace Japanese technician Bob, giving the STEEL users a thumping push to sweat it out. He roped in expert female trainers from USA, Greece, Turkey, etc. Equally remarkable is the pioneering in-house cafeteria that dishes out food according to muscle and body requirements. STEEL is born only a few days ago, but it has already magnetized many tness freaks, who make a beeline to the gym to turn into iron men and women. Looks like Kunal’s competitors need to pick up pace to be anywhere close to him. AKKINENI CHARM OR KAVITA’S STRATEGY? Well, his birth in Akkineni family itself gave him a head start in the celeb world. Recently Akhil sizzled in CCL match playing for T-Warriors, becoming a cynosure of all eyes even before his debut in the tinsel town. But of late he is featuring in the news columns for a unique reason. This young icon seems to have charmed none other than Telangana Jagruthi leader and KCR’s daughter Kalwakuntla Kavitha, who at one time went to the extent of blackmailing the Andhra lm makers threatening to stop their lms during the Telangana movement. One doesn’t know what brought about this change of heart, but Kavita seems to have realised the advantages of befriending lm personalities. She is said to have invested considerable amount of money in Akhil’s debut lm. Interestingly even Nagarjuna, who is co-producing his son’s debut venture, seemed to have patched up with KCR, putting the N convention asco behind him. Giving sufcient proof of this new-found love, Nag steeped KCR in great praises at an event. Is it all Akkineni charm working? Or it is the case of not only politics but also any eld remotely connected with politics, making strange bedfellows?

FROM TRACKS TO TINSEL He is the undisputed champion of the tracks, making a mark for himself in car racing. But he is not one who would settle for less. He has taken his next big leap and wowed his fans by appearing on the silver screen. Sailesh Bolisetti is the man. This young car racer has made a debut in Tollywood with Mukunda. Though, he didn’t play the lead, he managed to impress everyone with his role as a supporting character. Thus, it won’t be wrong to call this talent from Vizag a multi-tasker who knows how to win hearts, platform doesn’t really matter. Owner of a t body and killer looks, 28-year-old Sailesh has a swelling fan following, who are swooning over him, wanting to see more of his celluloid charm. Receiving such response, Sailesh is a happy chap now. However, it has raised a few queries as to what will be the next move of this young lad? Will he continue his car racing? Or will he strike a balance between both?

VIZAG

ON A RENAULT DRIVE By Ranita Ray

Shoot by Dhana Vijay

first-generation automobile entrepreneur, he holds the heir rights of a four decade-old hospitality trade. However, he perfectly fits the image of a freewheeling and pioneering maverick. A huge mansion, good bank balance, stable business, fame and name were readily served to him on a platter but he chose to set out on a new path- a luxury car business, to create his own niche and identity in the society, earning an exclusive franchise of Renault in Vizag. With such entrepreneurial leadership qualities it won’t be wrong to call Sushant Tummala a “rock star” of the business world. A green horn in this industry and just in his early 30s, he seems to be giving his rivals a tough competition. Here is his chronicle of accomplishments which can inspire and convince his peers that that it's never too late or too early to pursue one’s dreams.

Flashback “We stepped into hospitality business in 1960s when my grandfather Mr. Venkateswar Rao opened the rst star property, Nataraj Hotel, in Vijayawada, for which he received tremendous response. My father, Mr. Ravindra Kumar, was the next to shoulder the responsibility. He started off his journey by running the MLA quarters’ canteen in Hyderabad. Lured by Vizag’s market potential, he moved here and opened a hotel called Mayura. Within the next few years he launched two new facilities, Harsha restaurant and Hotel Mayuri. He also took charge of pantries of the Shipyard and BHPV canteens. Later, he moved to Hyderabad where he opened Southern Spice (1998) and Spicy Venue (2002) in Jubilee hills. By then my brother, Sampat also joined him in the business. Things were running pretty smoothly till my father’s premature death. I was studying in the UK and pursuing double Masters Degrees in Mechanical and Advanced Engineering. I was all set to take up a job there, but had to come back and take charge of Spicy Venue. I worked in that industry for three years. But deep within, I was nursing a dream of an alternate venture, i.e. automobile. I was impressed by Renault’s credentials when I was abroad. Coincidentally, I heard the company was looking for a franchisee. I felt all these events were indications beckoning me towards my destination. In 2011, I launched the rst exclusive dealership of Renault in Vizag.

Meanwhile, another hitch is whether you are making money or not, you have to fulll certain obligations like employees’ salaries, bank interest and are answerable to the manufacturers. Strategies Renault’s products are often compared with mid-segment brands like Toyota, Chevrolet and Honda. Now, we aren’t competing with Maruti and Hyundai or with uber luxury brands Audi and BMW. This year we are launching products which will increase our merchandize range and help us compete with low range makers. This will enhance the volume of our sale, pushing us ahead in the race. However, we don’t adopt any particular business strategies. We believe in our product and its USPs, i.e. best diesel engine in the world, safety assurance and unmatched warranty period.

ourselves updated, educate customers and make them understand the product. Strength I am very good at people management. I make it a point to interact with my customers, give my review and advise them on what is best for them according to their need. Automobile Alternate While I was in the UK, I got a job offer in Bombardier which manufactures planes. My father always wanted my elder brother to get into our family business and me to be a job holder. Had it happened that way, I would have been working somewhere in Scotland. Anyway, no regrets whatsoever. Hobbies I like driving cars and trying out the new ones. It can be of any make. I love to engage in productive discussions with like-minded automobile buffs and replenish my knowledge. Future Plans I don’t have any expansion plan. As of now, I would like to establish our brand rmly in the market. I also believe, with passage of time your plan alters, so I don’t make any long term agendas. Let me explain it to you

I give utmost importance to customer service. To attain perfection in this regard, a lot of attention is given to the procedure of hiring the best staff. Our recruitment procedure’s benchmark is quite high. The employees have to get trained once they are recruited. This whole exercise ensures premium service to our customers. Building goodwill in the market is very crucial. Since we are in the initial stage, it is all the more vital. I follow no special success mantra, nor is there any trade secret; I just follow basics and do things in a systematic way.

Observation In recent times, the market has grown quite volatile. Five years Hiccups back, there was hardly any When I entered this arena, I was competition. Today things have just a learner. There was no changed. You have ve different guidance. Learning the business products being offered by ve was tough. This is a market-driven different brands at the same price. trade. If the market or the product is It is a positive development as far good, it is an easy path to tread on. as customer is concerned, as he If not, one has to face the brunt. has more options to choose from. Once you stabilize yourself, spend But, it is certainly no good news for a good number of years and gain sellers. In order to be in the the required experience, it is of reckoning we need to keep course a smooth sail.

I am very good at people management. I always make it a point to interact with my customers.

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in a simpler way. Until a few years ago, I had great interest in designing and manufacturing cars. But, today I feel I should rather continue with my present occupation. The next 10 years period is crucial for me as I have to ensure my family is secure and settled. Priorities change right? If you ask me to design a car after a decade, I might give it a thought. I must share this; ‘Renault’ is my rst and last automobile venture. Soon, I will be taking a U-turn to hospitality business. We have a good brand name in this industry and I feel it’s time that I developed it further after the hiatus caused by my diversion into automobiles.

COMPATIBILITY METER She is very sensible: Sushant I got married to Shravya in 2012 and it was purely an arranged marriage. We haven’t got kids yet, but planning this year. She takes very good care of me. She is excellent at hospitality and loves to invite people and cook for them. She has seen the extremity of life at a very young age. Her father passed away when she was a kid. Just a few years back, she lost her sister in an accident. These adversities, however, made her a matured person. She has a good understanding of life and is very sensible and responsible.

On the personal front, I would like to reduce weight as soon as possible. I think with proper workout and healthy diet I can attain it. Advice I advise the automobile enthusiasts to foray into any other eld. The glamour and money this trade holds is waning. There are a lot of players and new companies, launching a new product every alternate day. Even if you enter, ensure you stay updated about the latest goings-on. If you fail to do so, your company goes for a toss. A Leaf Out Of His Diary 7:30-8.00 am: Wakeup. If there is a meeting, I start the day a little earlier. 9.30-10 am: Reach ofce Once I am in the ofce, I take no break, not even for lunch.

I have no special success mantra or trade secret; I just follow basics and do things in a systematic way.

5.30-6.00 pm: Get back home. 7.00- 8.30 pm: Go out to meet friends. 9.00pm: Back home and have dinner. 10.30-11.00pm: Day ends Come weekends, I keep my phones switched off. Those 48 hours are meant for relaxation with loved ones. On most Saturdays we party hard till wee hours, and naturally get up not before 10.30 11.00 am on Sundays. I have a good group of friends and we usually go out for lunch, get back by 6.00 pm and chill out at home. If I happen to get extended holidays, I go to Hyderabad and spend time with my family there. I can perfectly balance time among family, friends and business.

She helps me out in my work as well, by heading the entire service department of Renault. Co-ordination among staff is very important. She handles it with great ease. THESE ARE A FEW OF HER FAVOURITES Food: Non-vegetarian junk food or anything which is not prepared at home Colour: Yellow Attire: Ethnic Labels: She is not at all a brand freak. She likes shopping but it is never labelsdriven one. Car: BMW

Movie: Any Mahesh Babu lm! She has to watch rst day rst show. Actor: Naturally, the Prince of Tollywood Actress: I am not aware of it Passion: Cooking Holiday Spot: Goa! She has gone there not less than 15-20 times. I think I have to take her to a new place now. He is compassionate: Shravya He is a wonderful person and is very kind at heart. We have completed three years of togetherness, but there is not a single moment when I missed my maiden home. There is no room for ego or domination in our relationship, we are more of friends who share and discuss everything with each other. As a husband he is very caring and loving. I must mention his care isn’t only restricted to me and he has great respect for my mom too. He takes care of her like a son. What more can I ask for? As a businessman he is excellent. Being a B-tech graduate I was inexperienced in this eld. Whatever I have learnt about this industry, it is from him. I get a lot of support from him. There is still so much more to learn. He is an out-and-out extrovert and can mingle with anyone pretty easily. I have to pick up this skill from him as I can’t open up with people so effortlessly. Call it passion or something else, he loves his Fluence. He keeps on changing its interiors, exterior, music system or alloy wheels and takes care of it like his baby. THESE ARE A FEW OF HIS FAVOURITES Food: Fan of non-veg, chicken fry cooked by me. He likes homemade food Colour: Black Attire: Jeans and casual wear Labels: He is not particular Car: Mercedes Benz & Mini Cooper Movie: Not a movie buff, he doesn’t like to go to the theater. Hence no favourite actor or actress Passion: He loves to play throw ball and cricket Holiday Spot: Europe

SKY-SCRAPPING

SUCCESS

By Sumana Reddy

HYDERABAD

Shoot by Dinakar Pamu

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am an entrepreneur and I cannot imagine being anybody else!â&#x20AC;? exclaimed the young mogul of Manjeera, Mr.Vivek Anand Gajjala when asked what he would have been otherwise. With his work impeccable and thoughts innovative, his moving up on the scale of success is not only natural but also inevitable. Manjeera is a renowned NSE and BSE listed construction company of Hyderabad, which needs no special introduction. Also riding high in the infrastructure and hospitality sectors, this company is evolving as a national establishment with a versatile vision. Vivek holds the forte in retail and hospitality divisions of the company and zealously offers quality service to his customers. Cementing his name as a proficient businessman, he narrates how the magic bricks called hard work help him build the next level of success.

E X C E R P T S

Early Life I am a true Hyderabadi in spirit. My father, Mr. Yoganand, hails from Chittor and my mother, Padmaja is from Hyderabad. I went to Chaitanya Bharati Institute of Technology, for Civil Engineering. Later, I went to the US to pursue my masters in Construction Management from Stevens Institute of Technology. I planned my education to suit the family business because I passionately dreamt of joining my father in his company right from my childhood. I developed a keen interest in this industry. Majestically Manjeera Manjeera is a construction conglomerate, which proliferated as a chief establishment in its domain over the last 27 years. Kickstarting this line of work from residential property (independent villas, conventional and duplex apartments), we built more than two million sq ft of commercial space. We forayed into hospitality, retail and infrastructure. We are 15 years old in the hospitality business and have three hotels- Aditya Park and Aditya Hometel in Ameerpet and Radisson Blu (earlier known as Aditya Sarovar) in Gachibowli. Recently, we ventured into the retail sector, opening Manjeera Mall. As for infrastructure, we are into windmills. We are making forays into roads as well. The Hyderabad Market The market was dull due to many reasons, including state bifurcation for the past ve years. It was only after the new government came in that people started investing in real estate. If the government starts creating more employment in the IT and industrial sectors, it will indirectly help the real estate business as new employees who are hired here will invest in homes. Also, with the Modi government at the helm, development is certain.

YEA The Young Entrepreneurs Association was established in 2012 by a group of aspiring entrepreneurs. I am one of the founding members and the President for the current year. Our main motto is to develop leadership and entrepreneurial skills and network with peers. We started with ve members and crossed 50 now. Only candidates with a minimum net worth of Rs.100 cr-turnover are eligible to apply for membership. Work-Life Equilibrium Maintaining a work-life balance is very important. If you are peaceful, managing employees, family and friends becomes easy. I make sure I spend a lot of time with my loved ones. Meeting them on regular basis, going to movies and dining with them frequently is a must. Achievement Initially, I led the marketing division and took up many initiatives. One of which was to convert our work-ow into the corporate way and it was successful. We also introduced a bi-yearly inhouse magazine to be circulated among customers, investors and the NRIs. This way, we kept everybody in the loop. I started another initiative called Meet Your Neighbours to earn references of potential customers. Additionally, we sponsored the Hyderabad CCL Team (Celebrity Cricket League), which helped us reach bigger crowds. This attempt added to the company’s mileage. Also, the Employee Awards, which boosted morale of the staff, helped us achieve new targets.

The hospitality sector shares the same fate. Due to bandhs in the city, many travellers abstained from coming here. A few companies had even shifted to other cities. However, in the last six months, there had been an improvement in the hotel businesses. With KTR taking charge of the IT ministry, Hyderabad is witnessing many national and international events, which in turn, are sure to boost hospitality industry. But for the malls, there is tight competition. However, we have an edge over the rest due to the international brands that we roped in. Hypercity (the biggest departmental store in India) and Cinepolis (fourth largest multiplex chain in the world) are our anchor tenants. Running a mall may be challenging but surely lucrative. We plan to launch more such ventures. Challenges While I was in the US, we sponsored the TANA and ATA events for the Telugu associations present there. That was when I witnessed my father’s innovative ways of advertising. It was quite challenging to match his standards. On weekends, I visited the nearby cities to meet the Telugu Associations and hosted dinners for small groups to personally promote our ventures. I visited nearly 50 cities in a year with considerable success. When I was 21, I came back to Hyderabad to ofcially join the company and observed the top-level managers in action. It certainly was a challenge to emulate them. Distinctive Employer We have over a thousand employees whose betterment is my prime concern. Recently on one of our annual days, I held an awards show for the best employee of the year and various other categories. We roped in Tollywood stars to motivate our workforce. I strongly believe that if you take good care of your employees, they, in turn, take exceptional care of your business.

I passionately dreamt of joining my father in his company right from my childhood.

Future Plans We want to get into infrastructure at the earliest. While we are looking for opportunities in this eld, we have planned an aggressive expansion; let us see how it goes. Advice for Aspirants Follow your passion. This world is full of opportunities. Give it your best shot and you can be successful. Favourite Pastime Networking with new people and watching movies. Signing Off Be a responsible citizen and be a part of India’s growth. A LEAF OUT OF HIS DIARY 7:00 am- Wake up, go for walk with dad and read the newspaper. | 9:30 am- Reach ofce. I believe that if I am on time to work, my employees will also be on time. | 10:30 am- Manage work related to the mall | 1:30 pm- Break for lunch | 2:00 pm- Visit the hotels and handle work | 6:00 pm- Wind up | 7:00 pm- Home sweet home. COMPATIBILITY METER

A balanced life is possible only when one has peace of mind.

In the rst year itself we recorded highest sales. I also wish to take the company to the national level. Best Moment Being married to Rachna is the best thing that ever happened to me. Fun at Work It is not always about work in the company. We sometimes organise fun events in the city and promote the company. We held Manjeera Treasure Hunt, which was a hit. Nearly 1000 members participated in it. We gave clues on Radio Mirchi, the previous day. One of the guys from the radio station solved the clues before-hand and prepared himself for the event. As it turned out, the winner of the Treasure Hunt was the same Radio Mirchi employee. We all had a good time and good laugh. Inspiration My father is the biggest inspiration in my life. He is my guide and I learn a lot from him. Also, when I visit the developed countries, I get motivated to develop my own country. I draw inspiration from some sports lms as well. Success Mantra One, who is at peace can achieve wonders in life. Another important mantra is to work as a team because alone, you are helpless.

I ALWAYS WANTED A GIRL LIKE HER: VIVEK I met Rachna 11 months ago, when I was doing a hospitality course in Bangalore. As it was an arranged marriage, my parents asked me to meet her and see if I like her. We both had a good chat, liked each other and got married. I am happy because I always wanted a girl like herunderstanding and supportive. She also takes good care of my parents and sister. I spend a good amount of time at ofce. She understands my priorities and hence no complaints about my coming home late. She often calls me during the day to nd out if I ate- which is what I love about her! Apart from this, she helps me with my work. After I met her, I took fancy to reading books and watching Hollywood movies! THESE ARE A FEW OF HER FAVOURITES Colour: Blue | Outfit: Jeans and a T-shirt | Brand: Dior |Movie: The Dark Knight Rises | Hobby: Swimming and reading | Holiday Destination: Paris. HE IS RESTLESS & ENERGETIC: RACHNA I am a fun-loving and broad- minded person. I strongly feel one needs to be very dynamic to progress in life. For two weeks after we met, we were constantly on the phone chatting and falling for each other! Vivek is very energetic, restless, always on-the-move and a perfectionist. He just cannot sit idle or while away his time. Everything has to be timely and orderly with him. I feel he has a wee bit of OCD though! (laughs) But it works in our favour. He has to be constantly engaged in something productive. One of the incidents that occurred during our trip to New Zealand for our honeymoon will remain etched in my memory. We were engaged in a series of adventurous sports. If on one day it was para-gliding, then on the other it was cave expedition. After a near death experience during the cave expedition, I could not gather my guts to do bungee jumping. I tried to dodge it by saying that I am a girl, unlike boys who are gutsier. Then, he said, “If you face your fears, it will change your perspective of life.” That stuck in my mind. I became bolder and I truly believe that he is a born leader. THESE ARE A FEW OF HIS FAVOURITES Colour: Black, blue | Outfit: Formal shirt and jeans | Brand: Louis Vuitton and Burberry | Movie: The Greatest Game Ever Played | Hobby: Watch news, movies or anything informative and networking | Holiday Destination: Spain

By Neeta Nair

his is the time of the year when you think of romance, flowers and chocolates- yes you are right, it’s the big Valentine season and who better to be in conversation with than the Ravishing Regina. She makes your heart skip a beat and you know what, deep down she is a romantic too. Ask her what she likes about V-day and she’ll scream for the world to hear ‘Çhocolates’. But we go a step ahead to find out what else is on her mind. She has crisscrossed the Southern film industry, finally finding her footing in T- town. But just when her fans thought she had settled, this zesty actress surprised them with her return to Kollywood in the much awaited Rajathandhiram. From playing the role of a pregnant woman at the age of 13 to fiercely defending the kissing scene with Sundeep Kishan in Ra Ra Krishnayya, she is not the one to shy away from treading on dangerous grounds. In chat with the livewire Regina Cassandara, a Telugu speaking Tamilian whose love for languages and acting has won her many hearts in four states. After three films with the mega family of Tollywood to her credit, is this bindaas babe aiming for Bollywood next?…let’s find out!

Excerpts From Regina-the child actor to playing the leading lady in films...you have come a long way…. I started my career when I was in the 4th standard. It has been a very long journey but I have no qualms or complaints. In fact, I am very happy and satisfied about how my career shaped up. How did you get your first break? I started off with ads. My mother’s friend was a director and he was the one who suggested that I needed to try my luck in ad films. I didn’t really know much about the industry. Neither was I excited about the fact that I would be doing ads on television. You didn’t like dolling up for the camera as a child? Yes, I did. In fact, I loved dressing up for the camera which transported me into this new world. But back then, I didn’t consider it as a career option. No one in my family has entered this field before me. It was exciting to say the least. So would you say you had a normal or a ‘starry’ childhood? The fact that I was doing ads and anchoring on TV as a child didn’t change anything for me at home. My mom always kept me grounded. So, yes, I had a very normal childhood. My friends also never let fame get into my head even though they loved what I was doing. I never allowed work to affect my personal space. I did my show and came back home to being a very normal girl. Has anything changed for you now that you have so many given so many hits? I still have a very normal life. Yes, when I go out sometimes, people recognize me. But I make sure that I do what I like to do, I don’t let that extra attention stop me. You played the role of a pregnant woman when you were hardly 13 in the Tamil film Kanda Naal Mudhal. ….what made you accept it? When I auditioned for the role all I knew was that the character was the hero’s younger sister. I already had an association with the director of the film as I had worked with her in a serial. She was happy to see me at the audition. It

was only after I was selected that I found out that the role was of a 23-year-old pregnant woman. It did get me excited as I wanted to see if I could pull that off. Years later you are the leading lady of big stars like Ravi Teja…what was it like to romance the Mass Maharaja on screen? As an actor I don’t categorize anyone as a big or a small star. My behaviour on the sets doesn’t change as per the status of the co-star. But having said that, someone senior like Ravi Teja has a lot to teach you and I have learnt a lot from him. You had a kissing scene with him in Power, was it awkward? Sometimes the script requires you to be intimate with your co-star. Irrespective of who I am paired with I have to do justice to the scene. It should look genuine.

Your second film Azhagiya Asura didn’t fare well at the box office…did that scare you? I did the film when I was quite young. I was just 16. Whether it bombed or not wasn’t my priority because I was getting a lot of offers after my first film. I didn’t take up any project then because I was in the 10th standard and wanted to focus on my studies. Azhagiya Asura happened after that when I didn’t have anyone to guide me. But I am really glad I did it because it taught me what kind of film I should be doing and what I should stay away from. It happened eight years ago and I really don’t care about it today. It doesn’t matter.

And how was it pairing up with Nara Rohit in Sankara? Rohit is a very quiet person and a very nice human being. We had some really good conversations. He is a very good actor and what I really like about him is his voice modulation. Your upcoming Tamil film Rajathandhiram was promoted in a very unique manner. Your take. Veera is doing the lead role in the film which is being produced by a new production house – White Bucket Productions. I was the last person to get onto the bandwagon here. Going back to Tamil is refreshing. I’m eagerly awaiting the release of the film. My character in the film is something I have never played before. Are you aspiring to make it to Bollywood some day? I never had to push my way through in any industry. If Bollywood has to happen, it will. red | february 2015 | 69

college for the shoot. I had to learn a new language but that was fun. Plus my director was also a psychology major, so we had a lot of things to discuss. Then you made a foray into the Telugu film industry with SMS and Routine Love story. I didn’t know what I was getting into in the beginning but I auditioned for SMS and got the role. Like I said I just decided to give acting a chance considering that I was getting a lot of offers in my third year. Acting is something I am very passionate about, so it was not difficult for me to do these films. Difference between Tamil and Telugu industry Tamil makes a lot of realistic films while Telugu is still in the commercial genre. Otherwise there isn’t much of a difference in both.

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You had two hits in Tamil yet you continued in Telugu. It is not which film industry I am working for but what kind of offers I get that help me pick the film. I got a lot of Tamil film offers which I turned down because I preferred the ones I was getting in Tollywood. So, would you say you are comfortable speaking Telugu though your mother tongue is Tamil? Yes, absolutely. Hyderabad has become second home for me and Telugu my second nature. Talking about languages, how was it playing a Bengali girl in your biggest blockbuster till date Power? I love learning new languages, playing different roles. The role in Power is something I put my head into and decided on, whether or not I pulled it off, I will leave it to the audience.

You have acted even in short films. One of them Kadhalil Sodhappuvadhu Yeppadi was turned into a feature film. Your take on it. I love short films. Considering that I couldn’t do full-fledged films while studying in college, I quenched my thirst for acting through short films. Was it difficult venturing into Kannada industry with Suryakanti? I did have a slight problem as I had to miss

I didn’t think of it as a mega family, till people brought it up. It had never entered my head. I’m happy to be a part of it though. We saw Chiranjeevi was present at the time of shoot of one of the films, was his presence encouraging or intimidating? He is the kind of person who doesn’t make you feel pressurized. It was a pleasure having him there. What would be your reaction if you get a chance to act opposite Chiranjeevi in his 150th film? Haha…I don’t think I would get that chance but if I do, it would be very overwhelming. What’s your role in the upcoming Telugu film Subramanyam For Sale like? Here you will see me in the role of a vulnerable girl who pretends to be strong. The movie is a Rom-com, something I love personally. Are you dubbing for your own films? |I tried dubbing for Power but due to some last minute corrections and problems it couldn’t be incorporated in the film. I would love to dub for my own films though. Dubbing is an art, it is difficult to get the pronunciations right. Hopefully I will get to dub for my next film. RAPID FIRE: What will one find in your handbag: A lot of junk On fitness: I am lazy so have to push myself to workout Diet secret: I eat everything vegetarian You hate: Oily food Change you want to see in society: People should aspire to be more fit

Glamorous roles or emotive roles: Depends on character, director and You played the lead role opposite Sai banner Dharam Tej in Pilla Nuvvu Leni Guiding force in your family: Mom Jeevitam. What kind of equation do If not an actor you would be: you share with him? Tej is a very good friend now, we share A psychologist a lot of experiences. He is very down to Scared of: Being alone earth. It is always easy to work with Favourite star: Heath Ledger, Gerard someone like Tej who has no airs about Butler & Vikram him. Also, the director Ravi Kumar is Are you religious: I do say my prayers very genuine and humble. He knows First crush: My neighbor when I was exactly what he wants and I really had a great time working with both of them. in school Attracted to: Good and intellectual Very few actors in the industry can claim to have starred in three movies conversation with the heroes of the mega family, so early in their career

VIZAG

eve

UNWRAPPING SWEETNESS, PACKING SMILES

Shoot by Dhana Vijay

By Neeta Nair

red | february 2015 | 72

his Valentine season while you wonder how to woo your loved one, we caught up with a dynamic businesswoman who has managed to melt many hearts over the past 15 years. She makes the city’s most fabulous desserts. While her grandfather brought the rst gold showroom to Vizag, her father the late Sri. Mangalagiri Sudarshan Swamy did the same in glass ware and this third generation entrepreneur has continued the legacy. She is the rst lady to have opened a chocolate shop in the City of Destiny and years later still continues to have a hold over our taste buds. Three shop-strong and still determined to continue to innovate, she is Radhika Satish the founder of Radisa Chocolates. Will she share the recipe of her irresistible indulgences? Let’s nd out.

importers whereas others were getting it from the grey market, making prices competitive. I closed the store and took a break for six months during which I could come up with a unique business idea, which no one could steal from me. Her Tadka I went to Chennai and Bangalore, exploring options, referred books and realized that I could make chocolates myself. I started experimenting and improvising. Gaining adequate condence, I opened another store and retained the name Candy Court. My recipes are exclusive as they are born out of passion.

Excerpts Temptation Chocolate was my rst love. My father used to pamper me by bringing me loads of them from all parts of the world. After my 30th birthday, he wanted me to do something productive and set a deadline of one month to decide. I was given several options but How I maintain my home is exactly how I chose chocolates, maintain my workspace. because this was a subject for which I didn’t have to depend on anyone. Above all, it was something I really love. First Ingredient During a visit to Mumbai, I stumbled upon this place called Candy Court in a mall. They sold imported chocolates and not the regular ones which were available everywhere. I asked the store owner for franchise as it was convenient to get all my supplies from one point. He agreed and I started my rst store in Tycoon building in Vizag by the same name. Burnt Heart In 2001, one and a half years after I started the franchise, Candy Court shut down their business which forced me to procure supplies from wherever I could. Mine was the rst chocolate store in Vizag and post my venture, even the medical stores started stocking up imported chocolates. I used to source it directly from the

point in the building to open my outlet. M(b)aking the Name It was on the insistence of the late Manoj Kumar Grandhi, the owner of Vaibhav Jewellers, that we started brainstorming for a unique name. And Radisa was born, deriving the spelling from my name and that of my husband- Satish. Toppings My most recent shop and a baking unit were set up at my father’s house in Waltair Uplands. My father gave me a surprise, arranging everything I needed in the shop, when I was away on a trip. Stirred Days after he gifted me the shop, on 31st December my father slowly came downstairs to bless me. Sadly from 6th Jan onwards he started collapsing. My father was my pillar of support. There were so many occasions when I wanted to give up because I felt Vizag was not prepared for a chocolate store. But he told me, “You are a ghter, it doesn’t matter whether you win or lose, ght you must.” My mother is sweet and takes my grunts all the time. Winning Ingredient I bring a smile on people’s faces. On tasting the chocolates I made, some say ‘It’s heavenly, it is so yum’. That is what gives me my caption – Divine and Delicious. After all chocolate is the food of the Gods. The recipes for all the products in my store, including the toppings are my own creations. Luck Factor I believe in God. I am very condent of my creativity and the uniqueness of my product. But whenever I face any block, I just have to close my eyes and he shows me the way. It has worked every time a customer throws in a challenge.

First Cookie In 2008, there was a huge escalation in the real estate prices. Candy Court till then was housed in a rented place. I paid Rs 18,000 for 750 sq ft at a prime area, which was not much. As I didn’t want to deprive the owner of the extra rent, I decided run my business from home or V-square. So I asked Kankatala CMD, Mallik who is family to me, if I can put up a counter there. Without the blink of an eyelid he offered me a vantage

Hubby’s Hand He loves sweets. If you give him condensed milk, he would eat that too. I started making desserts because of him and they have become very popular now. I have known Satish since my childhood, and like my father, he is very encouraging and a genuine critic. Unfortunately for him, he is my guinea pig (laughs).

red | february 2015 | 73

More in the Oven The only reason I was not so aggressive in my business is because my rst priority is my family. Once my son sets out for his studies, I would be more than willing to spread my wings to Chennai, especially because it is our hometown. My son Bhardwaj says ‘Mummy I want you to take our business to a new level’. In my absence he takes care of my business, the accounts and orders. It interests him very much. After board exams he says he wants to work on a makeover for Radisa.

has got accustomed to the fact that hygiene is top priority. I also can’t tolerate negligence. Biggest Loaf We have the capacity to make 10,000 pieces of chocolates every day. The biggest order I got was from Hyderabad. Someone I know wanted to gift Brownies for Diwali to her celebrity friends about three years ago. It was an order worth Rs.5 lakh. We make as many as 5 lakh chocolates each Diwali. Recipes Under Lid Every Saturday I hold classes on chocolates, desserts and cakes. If people are interested they can also enroll for advanced classes, I have roped in a trainer for the same.

Icing and Seasoning I take care of the creative as well as the business part of the store. In my opinion, what you study is for knowledge. But you still have to learn the tricks of the trade practically. Hands-on experience has worked for me. My staff too gets trained that way.

B(re)aking Hearts Valentine’s Day is not only restricted to lovers, you can express your affection for your family members and friends too. So I tell my staff, “We have baked enough hearts and this year let us promote the day as- Express your love to anyone you care for.” We will have different cakes, embellished with small quotations on different kind of relationships.

Realisation Manoj’s departure changed me. The sudden death of the man who changed Vizag’s prole showed me the importance of living the moment. We all build big plans for the future without thinking that we only have control over the moment we are living. The present is the most precious.

One Liners Success mantra: Be genuine and work with passion.

Tips There is space for everyone in this eld but do not compromise on the quality. We don’t use preservatives and substitutes just to enhance the size and avour. I stick to the original ingredients. So my advice would be don’t try to make a fast buck, you must understand that it is food we are making and it would affect your customers’ health.

If not an entrepreneur: I would have been a homemaker Best compliment you have heard about yourself: That I don’t look like a mother of a 17-year-old Your favourite chocolate: In my collection it is the Hazelnut and Irish Cream

Side Dish Yoga, I am very regular at Nirvana. Cycling is something I enjoy. Apart from that I am one of the founder members of the group called ‘Yellow Bin’. Even before PM’s Swacch Bharat came up, we were actively involved in making Vizag a cleaner city. Every Sunday we undertake cleaning up of a certain part of the city and also help spread awareness.

Something about you that no one knows: I am a terror at work You can’t tolerate: Unhygienic conditions, I am a neatness freak You love: Chocolates of course. If anyone wants to gift me anything, that would be it. Your most annoying habit: I am always late. • Creativity ows only when you love something.

HER THOUGHTS

Tough Chef At work I am very strict, and am a perfectionist. Sometimes my friends ask me if they can volunteer at my store, I tell them ‘Please don’t, you don’t want to see that side of me’. Also I am very nicky about cleanliness. How I maintain my home is exactly how I maintain my workspace. We have two extra staff just to keep cleaning all the time. It is taxing but totally worth it. I have a watchful eye over every aspect of work, so my staff

Strengths & Weakness: My family and loved ones. I would let go of anything to be with them.

• If you are good at heart, God will push you towards the right path. • A peaceful and blissful mind is the breeding ground for creativity. • Acceptance is the key to happiness.

HYDERABAD

eve

She is a Class Apart By Sumana Reddy

Shoot by Dinakar Pamu

he is the biggest advocate of new age learning. Not the one to sit back and simply complain about the worn out educational system in the country, Swetha Manthena believed in actually getting her hands dirty to bring a change. And her endeavour did exactly that, transforming the lives of several hundred students who became a part of her Samashti International School. The institution, with its world class infrastructure, surpassed the traditional methodologies of teaching. We turn a few pages of Swethaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s chronicle to educate our readers.

red | february 2015 | 76

E x c e r p t s Early Life I was born and brought up in Hyderabad. I studied at Bharatiya Vidhya Bhavan’s School, Jubilee Hills until the 10th standard and later went to Villa Marie College to complete intermediate and graduation. I did Masters in Business Administration from IIPM, Hyderabad. My father Mr.A. R. Raju is the Managing Director of NCC group of companies and mother Mrs.Suguna is a home maker. My family is quite huge. Not only from the father’s side, but my mother’s too. My father has seven brothers and three sisters and my mother has seven sisters and two brothers! As I grew up in a joint family, bonding that comes with it is an important part of my day. Family has been my priority always. Marital Bliss After completing my education, my father wanted me to get married. He nalised the alliance and then told me about it. I have been married to Sandeep Manthena for eight years now. We have a ve-year age gap, which I feel is good because the level of maturity between wife and husband are balanced. Sandeep is very understanding. He never imposed any restrictions upon me. He is a doting father to our children Shreyas (6) and Sanhita (3).

Indian value system are included in the curriculum. We want the students to get a taste of both. Our focus is to imbibe in the students basic human values. We engage our students in activities like Swachch Bharat and encourage them to be environmentfriendly. We recently conducted a ‘Go Green’ competition for the nearby villages on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi. The Name I wanted to open a school which stands for Indian values and has international standards. I wanted kids to grow up under the framework of Indian culture. I also had a fascination for Sanskrit names. Our NCC in-house magazine is called Samashti, my grandfather loved the name so much that he christened the whole family ‘Samashti family’. It means togetherness. Hiccups The school business is totally an unfamiliar ground for me. Hence it was quite challenging, especially to make the distinction between right and wrong. But thankfully there were not many hurdles during the process of establishing the school. Uniqueness We follow unique teaching and assessment techniques that most of the schools in Hyderabad can’t boast of. We are tied up with ‘Creya’, a curriculum enrichment and development company which provides cognitive skills enhancement programmes.

Initiation I dreamt of starting my own school, even as I was studying in school. Marriage and children became a priority for me after completing my MBA. However, it did not stop me from fullling my ambition and I opened the Samashti School. Motivation I am fond of kids and am extremely passionate about sports. The latter is sidetracked by the schools all the time to focus on academics. I wanted to give them both, equal importance. We provide excellent sports facilities with four badminton courts, a basketball court, squash, football, volley ball, tennis courts, ample room for other indoor games and a large swimming pool. We also built a huge indoor stadium. In future we intend to tie up with senior sportspersons to ensure our students get the best coaching possible. Samashti School Samashti is a school with a dynamic vision, we help children transform into responsible global citizens. Every student would have the ability to adapt quickly, think critically, articulate effectively, lead change, be a team player and understand the dynamics of the environment. We follow the CBSE syllabus and support hands-onLearning Techniques. We have exclusive labs for different subjects to make sure each subject is learnt practically. Soon after a topic is taught, the child is assigned a project on the same and made to go on a eld trip. Additionally, we have smart boards where the children can look at pictures and capture them in their minds. All these are efforts to change the prevailing mugging system. Though the school is international in its prole, lessons on

Education is a eld which you cannot walk in and out of as you please, it takes more than that red | february 2015 | 77

I am glad to say that we are probably the only school to start an Astronomy course for the students. We conducted basic camps at school and invited students and their parents to study the skies through telescopes. We received an amazing response from them. Additionally, we look into and strive for the overall development of the child- mentally and physically.

I wanted to open a school which stands for Indian values and has international standards.

CBSE is the Best In India, all syllabi are being standardised. Presently, CBSE is advancing rapidly. It is on par with the IGSCE syllabus (commonly known as Cambridge syllabus). I myself am a product of CBSE syllabus. I remember that learning the answers by rote was a common practice then. But today, it is not the same. CBSE is more than just books. It is an amalgamation of practical exposure, theory, projects and assessments on a particular topic. It has more activities for realistic learning than following text books. Even the parameters of assessing a child have been standardised. Just like how India picked up IGCSE, other countries like Dubai are picking up CBSE from India. Family’s Support My family gives me 100% support in everything I do. Although my father doesn’t get involved in the day-to-day activities of the school, he is always there to guide me and give advice on important things. One such advice that I shall never forget is, ‘You learn from the mistakes you make- at least you will not repeat them’. Not just my husband, parents and my sister, my in-laws also support me in their own ways with the school. In fact, my father-in-law is a member of the school board. Advice to Aspiring School Owners Opening a school may be cakewalk but running it is very demanding. Maintaining its reputation and standards is even more difcult. Unless you are passionate about it, I would not advice anyone to take up this line.

This programme introduces students to Science Technology Engineering and Maths and collaborative learning. Every child from the rst standard undergoes this training. Creya integrates all subjects on a particular topic. Our robotics classes, in which students are divided into groups, teach them the value of team work. Even leaders cannot work alone. We produce the best team-mates, besides leaders. All the teachers undergo a 20-day training programme before the academic year starts. We are tied up with ‘Rave Institutes’ for this. They also train the teachers every other week on subjects like manners, etiquette and soft skills, so that they can in turn teach the children the same. Additionally, they train the teachers in communication skills like the art of talking to the students and attending to their emotional needs. For the students’ assessments, we are tied up with a company called ‘Kaleidoscope’. This Bangalore-based organisation gives a graph of the performance of the students in every subject with a topic wise breakup. This way, I know precisely where a particular kid stands in the class and which subject he is lacking in, to the extent that I even know which topic he found dull. The teacher then goes back to the topic and revises it with the child.

FAVOURITE QUOTE “You must do the things you think you cannot do” –Eleanor Roosevelt QUICK SIX 1. What are your hobbies? I like to read and love to travel. 2. Who is your idol? My father 3. If not an entrepreneur, what would you be? I never considered doing anything else. 4. What were the best compliments you heard about yourself? That I am quite modest. 5. What are your strengths/weaknesses? Strength- My family Weakness- Trusting people very easily. 6. One thing about you that nobody knows? Let nobody know about it! HER THOUGHTS 1. You can. You will. End of story. 2. I feel it is important to learn from one’s mistakes and grow. 3. One should collect memorable moments, not things. 4. If you are not happy, it is not worth it.

D A Z Z L E

Diamonds, Emeralds & More By Ranita Ray

stablished in 1993, Hira Panna Jewellers is one of the first facilities in Dwarakanagar which has grown into a trinket hub meeting every jewellery need of customers and for every occasion. A venture which initially started dealing with gold and silver, now offers a myriad of choices- polki, diamonds, rubies, emeralds, un-cut diamonds and many more. When it is about special antique and temple jewellery, its collection is unmatched. With the flavour of wedding season in the air, a visit to this showroom is a must.

Grandeur at its best is this antique necklace set. Create a strong impression with this bold Rajkot worked piece, crafted with detailed kundan work and alluring ruby as the center stone and a ruby bead as droplet at the floral motif locketâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bottom. The matching earrings complete the look. red | february 2015 | 80

Weight: 127.09 gm. Price: Rs. 4, 17,000.

Courtesy:

Shoot by Dhana Vijay

Bold & Bewitching

Chunky Choker Here comes an excellent display of jaali work with an oval motif at the center of this ruby-emeralduncut choker set. The matching chunky earrings, flaunting sleek craftsmanship and studded with tiny uncuts, rubies and the single emerald stone on the top, canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go unnoticed.

Weight: 183 gm Price: Rs. 8, 60,000.

Tinge of Tradition Studded with ruby and emerald pota stones and diamond polkis, this compelling heritage neckpiece is simply appealing. The divine involvement of goddess Lakshmi on kasu designs, adds to its opulence. The chunky locket strikes a harmony with the rest of the design. Wear it as an addigai with a pair of matching earrings.

Expanded Elegance This is one-of-its-kind piece with varied works woven together to turn this haram absolutely gorgeous. The centre of attraction is the unique combination of three strands of gold balls in different designs and patterns and the top part, flaunting gold ghungroo work, leads gradually to the multi-hued kundan stones work. Matching danglers complete the set.

Weight: 125.6 gm Price: Rs.4, 22,000.

Weight: 221.5 gm Price: Rs. 7, 43,000. red | february 2015 | 81

Antique & Arty Antique has its own charm and a lasting one. If you are a believer of the statement, then fortify it by picking this very pair of bangles. They are classic example of antique trinkets crafted with intricate carvings and adorned with green, white and red kundan stones.

Weight: 74.926 gm Price: Rs.2,45,000

Curvy & Chic If you think to sport a modern look, you should rely only on a bracelet, this bangle makes you think twice. Designed with laser cut, it comes with a rhodium polish, giving it an extra sheen. Wear it as a single or a pair, the outcome is nothing but a chic look.

Artistry At Arm Look resplendent by wearing this intricately crafted ara vanki. Studded with ruby, emerald and czeds, this piece of gold can add to your glamour.

Weight: 71.6 gm Price: Rs. 2,21, 000

Weight: 53.23 gm Price: Rs.1, 20,000.

Floral Jhumki Go traditional but with a hint of trendy touch as you wear this pair of jhumkis. Studded with diamond polkis, rubies, diamonds, emeralds, pearls, the pair has its own spell to cast. The ruby beads dangling at the top and bottom give it a fresh appeal.

Weight: 43 gm Price: Rs. 2, 78,000

Modish Chandbali Who doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t love the national bird peacock? The love for it is bound to double if you can wear their elegance on ears. Pump in some more grace by adding south sea pearls, czeds, emerald and rubies- the end result is this stunning chandbali. Without much ado, make it a part of your trinket collection.

Weight: 25.8 gm Price: Rs.86,000

Jewel from Junagarh Take your oomph factor to a new high with this two-tiered Junagarhi chandbaalis. They flaunt the refined assortment of all the gem stones in a striking way. The dangling ruby beads in the centre and south sea pearls on the sides bring in extra wowing effect. red | february 2015 | 82

Weight: 33.4 gm Price: Rs.1, 63,000

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PHARMA IS HIS DHARMA By Sumana Reddy

red | february 2015 | 84

Shoot by Dinakar Pamu

life

ith over two decades of experience behind him, Ramesh Babu Potluri, founder chairman of SMS Pharmaceuticals is a name to reckon with in the Hyderabad drugs and export industry. Although this intellectual futurist is a global leader in manufacturing the drug called Ranitidine, he did not rush with expanding his business. He seems to be a believer of the age-old maxim-slow and steady wins the race. The astute businessman chooses innovation as a tool to evolve further. Read on and nd out how his pills check many ills. EXCERPTS Give us a brief account of your early life. I was born in Unguturu, a village near Gannavaram in Krishna District. I completed intermediate at VKR College and earned a degree from Hindu College in Machilipatnam. I went on to pursue my post graduation from Kanpur University, specialising in Organic Chemistry. Since childhood, I nursed an ambition to start a business and be on my own. I took up civil contracts to start with. This vocation kept me busy for a year. What made you choose the Pharmaceutical industry? Murali. K.Divi, my uncle, who was living in the U.S returned to India only to start Cheminar Drugs in collaboration with the late Mr.Anji Reddy, owner of Dr. Reddy’s. As I have a strong background in Organic Chemistry, it seemed like the most natural option for me to join my uncle in this venture. My starting salary as a chemist was a mere Rs.150 per month. But that job helped me gain adequate experience in Research and Development, and Operations and Marketing. When we joined Cheminar it was a small unit spread over one acre land with two reactors. It was my uncle and I who together developed this company. We managed to get the FDA (Food and Drug Administration of US) approval too way back in 1987. That was where I learnt the

intricacies of this industry. I worked till 1990, when there was a split in the management. Unfortunately we were forced to quit the company. This fateful incident turned out to be a whole new beginning for me. It made me keen on having an independent set up in this eld, so I joined my colleague, Mr. T.V.V.S.N. Murthy and purchased a sick unit at a price of Rs.12 lakh to start SMS Pharmaceuticals. Tell us about SMS Pharmaceuticals. With over 25 years of experience in this industry, SMS pharmaceuticals focuses on producing API (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient) drugs in segments like anti-ulcer (Ranitidine, Pantoprazole, Lansoprazol), anti-fungal (itraconazole, ketaconazole, uconazole, lanoconazole) and others. For example, Crocin has 90% API and 10% Excipient (a non reacting substance formulated alongside the active ingredient of medication).

this drug. That is when I moved my plant to Karnataka, thankfully I never encountered any hurdles thereafter. While dealing with the authorities, I yearned for a more permanent solution to the odour problem. After spending a lot of time in R and D, we got a breakthrough. While incinerating Mercaptan we developed a value added product, which can be used in other items. It substituted a component that we import. Earlier, we procured 100 metric tonnes from other countries, but after the innovation, the number has reduced to ve tonnes. I am pleased to say that we won the prestigious Green Chemistry Award for implementing green chemistry practices. The founder of Green Chemistry in the US personally visited the plant and applauded the invention which was used on a large scale. What are the major changes taking place in the pharmaceutical industry? During 1980s, there were only Government units like Indian Drugs and Pharmaceuticals Ltd (IDPL) for manufacturing drugs. But they maintained poor quality as the parameters for quality check were vague. After the year 2000, strict regulations were put in place to control quality. Today if you make a product and it has even 0.1 % of impurity then you have to name it clearly along with its affects on the human body.

We are the global leaders in the production of Ranitidine (API). The global market is around 500 metric tonnes per month while we alone produce around 250 tonnes. When I started the company, the capacity was 500 kg per month. It gradually increased and more so after we invested in another sick unit in 1998. It was an arduous journey. We were competing with mighty Dr. Reddy’s. However, we stood out for our genuine quality. What were the challenges you faced in establishing the company? We faced numerous problems from the regulatory authorities, especially over olfactory problem. To mitigate it, we developed an incinerator for the residual waste in 1994. It was the rst incinerator used in this industry in India. It was a proud moment when the Central Pollution Board visited my plant, approved and advised other companies to utilize incinerators. Unfortunately, in 2000, another company started manufacturing Ranitidine. Expectedly, the problem of foul smell arose again. But, the government ofcials targeted me as I was the largest producer of

She single-handedly brought up our children Vamsi Krishna and Trilok.

red | february 2015 | 85

The Indian Pharma has a bright future. Even though there was a downfall in all the markets in the past year, pharmaceuticals had been very steady. In the 1980s, we supplied our API stock to intermediaries like Bombay traders. They in turn supplied it to the European traders. There were not many regulations in those days. Gradually, we entered the European markets without taking the help of the intermediaries. What steps should the government take to improve the market conditions? Recently at the API conference, we demanded that the government appoint a task force which resolves our issues promptly. For instance, one has to submit the necessary documents to the regulatory authorities for approval on receiving an export order but he would lose the contract, if the turnaround time taken is two months. The rules should be made to ensure that quality is not compromised, but the process should not be so long drawn that it affects the business adversely. We have better scope for growth if these amendments are made. ON A PERSONAL NOTE

We faced numerous problems from the regulatory authorities, over olfactory problem. To mitigate this, we developed an incinerator for the residual waste in 1994

What are the most memorable moments of your life? Six years ago, when the real estate industry was booming, everybody wanted to dabble in lucrative construction projects. I ran into an ex-employee, who was also talking about launching projects worth Rs.6000 cr. It suddenly occurred to me that even after protracted slogging, I hardly had a turnover of Rs.400 cr. It demoralised me so much that I went cribbing about it to my dear friend Chandrababu Naidu. However, his response gave me a fresh lease of hope. He said that even a 10th standard passout can run a real estate company and his association with his labourers would only last till the duration of the project, whereas I was providing roti, kapada aur makaan to 600 employees. He told me that not everybody can run a pharmaceutical company without the right knowledge; it was the happiest day of my life. Another recent incident which will remain etched in my memory was watching my employees celebrate the annual day of our organisation so joyously. I was moved to see all the senior level employees squatting on the ď&#x20AC;&#x201A;oor without any airs. The same day I also learnt that all employees had contributed to raise funds to the tune of Rs.7 lakh and Rs.4 lakh, without my notice, to help a sick junior chemist and to ď&#x20AC; nance a fellow employee who had met with an accident. I was overwhelmed by the teamwork and compassion they exhibited. Who is your inspiration? Uncles Divi Radha Krishna Rao and Chandrababu Naidu. What is your success mantra? Hard work, sincerity and discipline learnt from Murali. K. Divi. The principles of loyalty, ethical and moral values that I learnt from Divi Radha Krishna Rao, are the key to my success.

How do you give back to the society? I did involve myself with charitable organisations on a small level. But post my retirement in three years, I want to spend a portion of my fortune for philanthropic activities. What would you change about yourself, if given a chance? I am quite dominating. I wish I could change that aspect and give a chance to the next generation which is taking over. What is your advice to the new entrants in this field? If you are entering this eld, then ensure that at least one person from your family with technical background is involved in the business. If not, it would be very difcult to succeed. Aurobindo, the ace pharma man, may have got lucky with a non technical background. But it is not the case with everyone. What are your future plans? We are expanding to formulation units for drugs. We also want to enter Biotechnology. What are your positives and negatives? Positives- I am very aggressive, daring and am always motivating people. Negatives- I cannot tolerate indiscipline, be it my wife, children or the General Manager. Another setback is that I trust people very easily. ONE LINERS

It was an arduous journey. But we did stand out for our genuine quality.

Family: The greatest gift from God Money: Useless if it is in excess Hard work: The key to success Luxury: Enjoying a holiday with family FAVOURITES Books: Yandamuri Veerendranath’s Dabbu to the power of Dabbu | Food: Curd Rice | Colour: Light Blue | Car: Benz |Brand: I am not brand conscious | Movie: No favourite as such | Actors: NTR and Savithri

vacation. He is simple and loved by all, including his employees. He showers love, yet demands discipline. The most memorable moment of my life was on our 25th wedding anniversary, when we went to Agra to see the Taj Mahal.

FAMILY CORNER

HE IS A VISIONARY: VAMSI KRISHNA(SON) I have always wanted to support my father in business and I was very closely associated with the company’s activities from a very young age. I did my engineering from Bits Pilani in Dubai and worked with Ranbaxy in the US. I moved back to Hyderabad in 2013 and joined my father in his business, handling operations and marketing. My father is a visionary. He dreams big and is always on the go. I am blessed to have such a father who can read me like an open book. He is my guiding light. Under his protective gaze, I recently launched VKT Pharma, a formulation unit for drugs which was inaugurated by Mr. Chandrababu Naidu.

SHE IS MY BIGGEST ASSET: RAMESH My wife, Himabindu is the greatest asset of my life. She is very understanding and cooperative and has never said no to me for anything. While she is an Organic Chemistry Major, she chose not to pursue her career. We had an understanding that I would earn the bread and butter while she takes care of our home and I must say she did a great job. Not only did she take care of both our parents but she single-handedly brought up our children Vamsi Krishna and Trilok. More than my success, I take pride in the fact that we gave two young and responsible citizens to the society. HE IS LOVING AND CARING: HIMABINDU I am Himabindu, but Mrs. Ramesh is more apt for me (laughs). Apart from being a loving husband, he is a very caring father. Ramesh is very hard working and knows exactly how to balance his work and personal life. Once he is back from work, he switches off his phone and devotes all his time to the family. He was very clear that it would be my full time job to raise our children with strong values and I am very proud of all three of them. My whole life revolves around our kids and my husband. Every year, he takes a break from work to take us all on a

HE IS AN INSPIRATION: TRILOK (SON) I am an Engineer specializing in Computer Sciences from Bits Pilani in Dubai. I moved back to India after acquiring a diploma in Game Designing. Here I kick-started my work at Zinga in Bangalore. My father has been the biggest source of inspiration for me. I have always seen him work extremely hard and going out of his way to motivate his employees. All his friends and family love and support him. His priority has always been his family and bonding is something that he encourages all the time. He is a self made man and is very competitive even when he is playing a sport. We play volley ball and cards together but he gets very upset whenever he loses a game (laughs).

GADGETS

THE

GADGET By Neeta Nair

GYAAN

he new year has just caught pace, and you can’t afford to be left far behind. In this edition we bring you gadgets that would send you bolting towards the nearest gizmo store because not only do they define convenience but also reflect sheer brilliance. Take a look.

PETALITE FLUX: FULL CHARGE IN 15 MINUTES Inspired by electric-vehicle supercharging technology, UK hardware startup Petalite announced the Petalite Flux, an external battery that can be charged to 100% (2,600mAh) in just 15 minutes; Petalite flux can either be charged normally via USB or with 10 amps of power when using the Power Dock.

R5, THE WORLD'S THINNEST FULL HD PHONE Measuring just 4.85 mm in width, the R5 combines sleek elegance and outstanding personalization. It is equipped with exceptional technology including an Octa-core Qualcomm MSM8939 and comes with a 5.2“ AMOLED screen giving the highest brightness and colour rendition besides the lowest reflection ratio and highest ambient light contrast ratio available. R5 features a reinforced industrial grade stainless steel micro-arc frame that undergoes touch of handcraftsmanship. Its phase-shifting material is made of metal, resin and other composite materials. When heat is generated, the material begins to change. This material not only absorbs heat but also radically improves thermal efficiency. FEATURES Clarity: AMOLED, 1920 x 1080, 423PPI 180° Visibility | Fast Focus: Remembering with every touch, each picture a pause. | Pure Image: Digitally encapsulates your cherished glimpse in time. | Ultra HD: Take 50MP photographs with Pure Image’s photo stitching feature. |Low-light: A beacon of clarity for those moments in the dark. | Traking Focus | Animated GIFs | Audio Photo | Beauty Mode | VOOC It Up | A five minute charge gives two hour phone call. 30 minutes will restore 75% of battery. O-Music Choice from a touch, take a photo; change a tune just by touch.

Inputs from Mr. Duke, MobiCare

KYTE & KEY: WEARABLE DATA CABLE Kyte & Key was formed out of a necessity to bring some clutterfree convenience to your digital lifestyle. With the iPhone's recent switch from 30 pin to lightning, many of us early adopters of iPhone were left without a robust stock of community cables from which we could share. A good news for fans of jewellery as the two items are merged into one powerful product Cabelet (cable+bracelet), the first Wearable power charging/data cable.

iTWIN CONNECT, SIMPLE AND EASY DEVICE For road warriors, remote workers and agents in the field, there are many ways to surf online safely, securely connect to a computer back in their home offices and share files. iTwin Connect from Singapore-based iTwin is a nifty USB-based device that can do all of the above easily and simply. iTwin Connect, available directly from iTwin and other major online retailers, offers a built-in VPN service, file-sharing, remote desktop, and Windows network and printer sharing. â&#x20AC;˘

Pros: Very easy to setup and use; Excellent security; Provides file-sharing and remote access.

â&#x20AC;˘

Cons: Easy to lose second half of dongle. Significantly affects network speed. No Mac support.

WVIL: WIRELESS VIEWFINDER INTERCHANGEABLE LENS The patent-pending WVIL system takes the connectivity and application platform capabilities of today's smart phones and wirelessly connects them with interchangeable full SLR-quality optics. It is the inevitable solution for photographers who expect the power of modern mobile devices, besides uncompromised quality. The system lets you separate the point of view from the point of control, providing multiple angles and perspectives. Multi-touch input gives direct control over how images are captured. There is no wait and no wires. What you need is a smart phone with the same connectivity, app platform and cell service.

red | february 2015 | 89

VIZAG

MILKMAN

TULASI

FROM GRASS TO GLASS By V. Sarada

Shoot by Dhana Vijay

ne claim all politicians and political aspirants, without exception, make is that politics and politics alone provides the platform to address people’s problems. But the Chairman of Visakha Dairy simply vetoes the theory. Of course, he doesn’t do it just off the cuff. He had experimented with the gloried eld of politics and found it redundant to his objective. He establishes that one needs no power props to bring the much-needed change in lives of the underprivileged multitude.

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“You know, I can pull off a feat that the most powerful cannot even think of.” This coming from a simple and unassuming Mr.Adari Tulasi Rao may sound anomalous. But take a look at his work, you know he walks the talk. “I noted that Buchchayya peta farmers would be beneted if we built a reservoir in Karaka hills. The very next day I engaged an engineer and started working on it. The local farmers chipped in and we completed the project in record time,” says Mr.Rao with justied pride. This condence springs from years of experience, dedication and hard work. Farmers across the region vouch for the benevolence of their chairman who stands for high values, professionalism and business sense. Mr.Rao’s most cherished memory is of the compliment he received from former minister Pattabhi Rama Rao who said, “The farmer doesn’t give away his trust so easily. The very fact that you won the faith of thousands of farmers speaks volumes of your accomplishment.” Mr. Rao runs a corporate style hospital and schools for farmers and staff. Employment in the dairy is reserved only for the qualied children of farmers. “Treat the farmer right”- is his mantra. He toured 45 countries, studied the industries across the world and interacted with native farmers to bring back concepts and technologies that are relevant for his dairy. Years sit lightly on this septuagenarian, who even now travels at least 200 km a day to be in touch with the grassroot. With his phone switched on round the clock, he is highly approachable even to the last man in the eld. All that one needs to do is, give him a missed call. Aptly called the Andhra Kurien (Father of White Revolution), Mr.Rao is in know of the nuts and bolts of the dairy industry and offers a few poignant glimpses of his mission.

I am happy with the support I get from my staff, farmers and government.

EXCERPTS How did it all start? Well, in the rst place I don’t consider myself a man with some extraordinary skills and strength. I was born in a farmers’ family of Yelamanchali whose neighbouring farms and gardens witnessed my childhood escapades. Running across the elds, climbing trees and tending cattle or to put it simply, the scent of the soil held more magic for me than the academics. Somehow I reached upto the school nal. Earning a living was never a priority as my father was an afuent contractor and we also own and run cinema theatres. What defined your path? I have been in the public life right from my childhood. I served as a sarpanch for two decades. Eventually, I gravitated towards TDP and joined it in 1983. Recognising my calibre, Mr.Chandrababu Naidu rewarded me with the Zilla Chairman’s position. I got elected as the Chairman of Visakha Dairy in 1986 and have been heading it since then. Dairy- then and now? When I took it over there were hardly 600 farmers and 60 villages/societies supplying milk. Now we have 2000 societies. More than two lakh farmers are engaged with our dairy directly and another 5 to10 lakh farmers indirectly. Our procurement is in the range of 6 to 7 lakh litres per day now and is expected to reach 10 lakh litres by 2020. It takes at least ve years to reap full and real benets in this industry. Fortunately, in my case, we saw results in two years itself. What are the salient features of your firm? We adopt any new concept or technique that enhances the dairy’s performance. Ours is the rst organisation in the state to install solar power panels with a capacity of 1.15 MW to reduce dependency on the power grid. We supply farmers with qualitative fodder seeds for the development of nutritional fodder, besides vitamins and mineralenriched feed manufactured by us. We have set up more than 100 Bulk Milk Cooling Centers, covering almost all the villages in the region for effective preservation of milk till it reaches the processing point.

Qualied ofcials, supported by a team of technicians, constantly monitor the entire process that takes place between milching and supply points. We take random samples every 10, 30, 60 minutes, depending upon the product and its shelf life. The samples are stored till the expiry of the product. Though it cost us a fortune, we have been processing UHT milk with shelf life of 1590 days. This is ready to drink milk with “zero” bacteria. How do you procure your livestock? Periodically our specialists along with farmers visit places like Kolar (Karnataka), Aklose (Maharashtra) to procure high yielding breeds. Experienced and retired veterinary doctors are appointed to monitor the health of cattle. These doctors also train Dairy Extension Workers. What are your contingent plans for lean period? We see that bore-wells are sunk and reservoirs and check-dams are constructed to combat water problem and ensure its uninterrupted supply for growing green fodder. What is your take on the new fadorganic milk? I don't want to comment on this and it is left to the wisdom of individuals with basic understanding. I reckon milk of the cattle fed on clean water and green fodder has to be natural and pure. What kind of nancial support do you render to the farmers? I do not like my farmers languishing in debt traps. So I support them by lending money from the company at simple interest on diminishing balance. In any given year no less than Rs.20 cr are earmarked for purchase of the cattle. What resistance did you face for taking up tasks that are state’s responsibility? It is our responsibility to make farmers and other constituents understand how their lives can be bettered by our efforts. We have to do what is best for our farmers, that too at the earliest possible time, without waiting for someone to come and do the honours. Even those who resisted us initially fell in step with us, regretting their haste in misjudging us. Overall, I am happy with the support I get from my staff, farmers and government.

mixture that improves the yield, computerisation etc. All our procurement centres are equipped with advanced milk testing gear and computerised accounting. How different will be the baby-food you are planning from the ones already in the market? I do not compromise on quality. I also strictly adhere to the standards set by the government. Our objective is to supply best quality baby food to the rural population at most competitive rates vis-a-vis MNC brands. What is the market share of your dairy and where does it stand when compared to the other brands? We enjoy a good brand image as quality manufacturers. We built it over four decades. Our bulk customers include reputed world leaders like Amul, Mother Dairy. We are operating predominantly in Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram, Srikakulam, East Godavari Districts. We are also exploring markets in Telangana, West Godavari, and Krishna districts and Guntur and Tirupathi in Andhra Pradesh. We have a good presence in Chhattisgarh and Odisha. Many private dairies came in but could not stand in competition with our brand. What are your advertisement strategies? Visakha Dairy needs no special advertisement support. Our products have become a household name. Our capacity to deliver quality products to consumers on time itself contributes to the growth of the market.

Does that mean Dharma is more important than the Law? Dharma and Law are not different from one another. They are interwoven. I act, striking a balance between the two.

To conserve and develop indigenous bovine breeds, government has launched “Rashtriya Gokul Mission”. Your take on it? Government’s initiative is laudable as it stresses the importance of dairy and agrirelated projects, upon which How do you plan to hand majority of our population over the fruit of your work depends. One constraint, I spot, to others or the genX? is very few indigenous breeds Good work can be certainly are high yielding. I prescribe kept up, if it is passed on to cross-breeding of indigenous the right people who are with hybreeds as a perfect passionate about their panacea for it. However, any commitment. Whatever I wish government initiative, small or to do in the interest of poor big, certainly augurs well for the farmers or new and advanced poor farmers. technology or product has to be done without delay What are the problems you because time is the only faced in combining rural resource which can’t be assets with urban technology? regenerated. First mover It is a smooth sail once we advantage has always paid convince the farmer about the good returns to us. advantages of technology like Involvement, dedication and articial insemination, high planning always yield good yielding fodder seeds, mineral results.

How do you manage price hikes without inviting public ire? Price hikes are taken only as an inevitable measure to ensure that farmers get remunerative prices. Today’s well-informed consumers are aware of the rise in various costs viz., diesel, power, wages, packing, transport costs, selling and distribution, storage costs etc. What is Anand Pattern? What is yours in comparison with it? Anand Pattern is a 3-tier structure with each tier performing a distinct role. At the village society level milk is procured and at the District Union level the product is processed, packed and is brought to marketable condition. Finally, the state-level federation lends support to the unions both administratively and in marketing. However, ours is a producers’ company that is a new generation co-operative having multi-state business operations, falling under Companies Act. Visakha Dairy’s activities and success are very much comparable to Anand pattern. With the introduction of APMAC Act, we earned exibility and freedom from uncalled for political interference. What are the benefits of being associated with Visakha Dairy? We have left Anand far behind in welfare activities for farmers. We extend health, education and veterinary services, supply cattle feed and medicines at subsidised rates, provide employment to producers’ children, construct reservoirs, bridges, culverts, kalyanamandapams, and roads connecting villages. We also take care of insurance to the farmer and cattle.

HYDERABAD

THE INSIDE STORY: KIN INTEREST By Sumana Reddy

lending talent and creativity to offer vibrant and luxurious spaces, this dynamic duo has created a brand The Inside Story, withstanding the cutthroat competition in the interior designing market. The young and motivated cousins- Raashi Pachisia and Umang Daga set out on an expedition to create residential and commercial interiors. The best thing is that they can make the design reď&#x20AC;&#x201A;ect the story and the personality of the owner. Brimming with brilliant ideas, they hope to travel the globe for acquiring exclusive pieces. They are ready to go to any extent to realize their dreams. Read on and learn how they designed their own career.

Please give us a brief account of your background and your brand. Raashi: I earned a degree from NIFT, specializing in accessories and product designing. There were more specializations under this like designing furniture, bags and jewellery. After trying my hand at all of them, I chose furniture designing. Projects related to this were very thrilling. So I was

red | february 2015 | 94

Shoot by Dinakar Pamu

EXCERPTS

determined to continue in the same line. I then joined my cousin Umang and started our very rst venture in 2011- The Inside Story, an interior and furniture design rm. The aim is to go for innovative designs. I reckon all our creations captivate the customer and each of them has a story to tell. It has been a remarkable journey. Umang: While I was considering my career options after completing my internship at Ernst and Young, Raashi told me about our rst offer to design a residential G +2 at. I was keen on starting my own business, so went ahead with this project and along with Raashi established the company. I look after operations, nance and implementation process, co-ordinate with contractors and manage sourcing materials. I believe there is constant growth in this eld especially in and around Hyderabad. It gave us good returns even during recession. What is your role in the business? Raashi: I manage the designing aspect. After we get a brief from the clients, we undertake repeated visits to the site to gauge the customer’s requirement. In the meantime, we understand the background and psychology of the clients to ensure we build their space following the contours of their personalities. I don’t impose my designs on the customers. We, also do our best to work around the clients’ budget. After the designs are approved, it is time for furniture set-ups. We sourcein the furniture or customise it, depending on the clients’ requirements. If they choose the former, I travel along with the client to other countries for furniture shopping. Recently, I took one of my clients to Dubai to purchase homeequipment and another client to China. Who is your target audience? Umang: We want to move into the luxury segment and are inching

towards it. As we are known for our quirkiness and creativity, we target projects which allow us to go crazy with designing- like coffee shops and boutiques. However, I do not go too much into the designing part of it and leave it to Raashi. I make my observations at the sites and give inputs to her on the feasibility of the designs. Who is your inspiration and what was your first assignment? Raashi: I worked as an intern with renowned designers Aamir and Hameeda. Being an ardent fan of their amazing work, I aspire to be as successful as they are. During my term there, I learnt the ropes and gained practical knowledge of interior designing. Later, I went to London to pursue Masters. On moving back to Hyderabad, I got a chance to design a house. Their budget was around Rs.1.5cr, I was overwhelmed by such an offer. It was too good for a rst timer. That was when I decided to start an interior designing company. Although I had a job offer from Aamir and Hameeda, I went ahead and established my own company. I strongly believe that you learn better if you work on your own. What is your USP? Umang: Personal touch. We understand our clients and their lifestyles to design their spaces. We are not like a typical rm to furnish two or three designs and ask the client to take his pick. If the client is not satised, we churn out more designs leaving no stone unturned to get that content look on his face. Before we take up a project, we give a questionnaire to all the family members right from the eldest to the youngest to know their prerequisites! This gives us an edge over the others.

In my style of working, every element of my design tells a story.

How did you zero in on the name? Raashi: With each of our creations narrating its own story, there couldn’t be more apt name for our brand. What is you CSR exercise? Umang: As we are in the nascent stages, our focus right now is to stabilize the company and take up more offers. But a few years later, we will certainly undertake CSR activities. We want to give back to society. What were the initial hiccups? Raashi: It was challenging for us, more so because neither of us come from a business background. In a service sector, one needs to constantly be in contact with the customer, in our case more so because we have to understand their necessities thoroughly. Unlike the retail sector, the sale doesn’t mark the end of the interaction. We were not very good in maintaining the relationship with clients. Even nancially, we were clueless of how to promote our rm or charge the client. But today, we have come a long way. How do you update yourself? Umang: I go through a lot of world class design magazines. I also follow the biggies in this eld to educate myself and implement their working styles.

red | february 2015 | 95

What do you give importance to comfort or aesthetics? Raashi: For residential spaces, as the clients live there for the rest of their lives, I give preference to comfort. Living in a cosy place is bliss as opposed to something that is attractive yet uncomfortable. However, for commercial spaces, I make the sketch keeping in mind my client’s customers, emphasising on aesthetics. For boutiques and restaurants, I strive to give spectacular designs. What are the goals of your business? Umang: Our objective is to be identied as one of the leading interior designers of Hyderabad. I hope people relate to our brand better in the days to come and vouch for our work. They should be assured that come what may, we shall not compromise on quality and we give personal attention to the last detail. Compare our traditional designs and the western concepts. Raashi: In the U.S, the suburbs follow a country theme. In Dubai, the concepts are modern with clean lines and more whites. In India, it is all about carvings and ethnics. I try to fuse western and Indian to achieve a contemporary look. Sometimes I use Asian concepts too to add a distinct character to the space. What do you think the government should do to boost the market? Umang: The worst problem the industry is facing is power crunch. Once that is resolved, manufacturing units will get a boost. It in turn will help investments and growth. Hyderabad will be an ideal destination for settling down with demand for more and more houses and commercial spaces. That is where we step in. What is the present status of the business? Raashi: Our business is picking up steam with quite a few projects in hand. Our current projects are in Dubai, Bhubaneswar and Hyderabad. It is quite taxing, but this way we get to learn a lot. Delhi and Vizag are in the pipeline. For Vizag especially, there is a lot of scope. We are hoping to build strong clientele there. What is the biggest problem in your business and how do you tackle it? Umang: The attrition rate is quite high in this eld as compared to others. Generally employees seek greener pastures, once they get trained. We again have to start from scratch. To overcome this problem, we outsource with auto-cad centers. That way, the work is executed smoothly and we don’t need to fret over managing the employees. Once we settle down in the business, we will add more numbers to our staff. How do you advertise your brand? Raashi: Word of mouth plays a major role in marketing. Additionally, social networking sites like Facebook also help. What is your working style? Umang: We are not too particular about our working style. We don’t bother about how the employees execute their work as long as they deliver goods on time. Especially with the designers, we go out of our way to accommodate them, because we don’t want to hamper their creativity. We give them

all the freedom to give vent to their ideas. Generally, designers are relegated to backstage and may remain unsung. But we take them along for client meetings to give them due exposure and help them learn more and understand better.

my business in Hyderabad, Vizag and Bhubaneswar and then focus on Dubai. Of course, we are already doing a project there. I would like to see the response and make a strategic move.

What is your advice to new entrants? How do you handle Raashi & Umang: Interior competition? designing is a tough eld, Raashi: In our eld, every rm considering the nancial has different branding and difculties they often throw up. positioning. I don’t call it For example, a customer competition. Everyone has his might hold back the money if or her own unique styles and he does not like the work, designs. For example in leaving you disappointed couture, if you want bling you because you have spent that would pick a Manish Malhotra much time and money on the and if you prefer antique you project. One can call it a would go for a Sabyasachi. thankless job. Not often can everyone pull off something What are your spectacular. My sincere advice expansion plans? to the new comers is to hang Umang: Since we have on till the things get sorted out. already reached Bhubaneswar, Whatever may be the case, we would like to come into the one should never compromise Vizag market. I believe that on the quality. Vizag is hot property right now. Firstly, I want to consolidate

VIZAG

FROM

BOR

G N I ROW

O T AM

E R D A ING By

red | february 2015 | 98

ta Nee

r Nai

Shoot by Dhana Vijay

N W O IT

t may have started as an attempt to support her husband’s dream, but before she knew it, it had become a purpose of existence for Chandana Gontu. This dynamic lady effortlessly juggles the role of a mother and an educationist, having founded the Amar Concept School along with her better half in 2008. Her ideas and thoughts give her an aura of an entrepreneur but the moment her second born walked into the room, we saw her transforming into a nurturer with surprising ease. She may not admit it, but she was denitely cut out for the role of an educationist. And it is no wonder that with her ideas and support, Amar Concept School spread its wings across Andhra Pradesh. In conversation with the driving force behind this institution which ranks amongst the top schools in the state.

Next goal The numbers were impressive but we were not the ones to rest on our laurels. In the third year itself we had 3000 students and today the number touches 9000. We have 18 branches, with ve in Visakhapatnam itself. Your USP Initial success, we did have, but there was no way we could take it easy. Our education system and the method of teaching we follow played a big role in attracting more and more students. Proud Moment In the

First success We already had the basic infrastructure in place with my father’s property available. We took the decision in May and by June end we had roped in 628 students. That kind of response in the very rst year of school, I believe, is quite an achievement for any new institution. Of course, the credit goes to my husband, who had already made a mark in the education eld.

Family Support I had full support from my family and my in-laws ,even when we needed a lot of investment. Faculty Members We give ads in the newspapers whenever there is a new position then we take interviews, tests and ask the applicants to attend seminars. Depending on the outcome of all three, we take a decision. Their training doesn’t cease to exist even after they are employed. In fact we continue it during public holidays. The best part is that the teachers volunteer to attend such programmes. Novel Exercise When we introduced Campus Radio, children used to skip their lunch and eagerly come to the studio just to explain their ideas to us. Parents would complain that children were not touching their lunch boxes.

Initiation I come from an engineering background, and completed most of my higher studies in Tamil Nadu. I then went on to do an MBA. But in reality I wanted to become a dress designer. Soon I married Amar, and settled here in Vizag. Amar Concept School was started a year after. Struggles We struggled for a good two months to oat the concept which does not focus on studies and textbooks alone, but includes sports and extracurricular activities too. For example, we came up with the idea of Campus Radio where students talk about current affairs and come up with innovative ways to discuss various subjects.

the forefront of organizing extra-curricular, cultural activities and sports events. I believe they should get as much importance as studies. Our events in school are so popular that they have been covered by several TV channels.

CSR Activities Every year we organize a food festival at our school, the proceeds of which are donated to the nearby orphanage. Also, we regularly distribute food packets to the handicapped.

very rst year of school, one of our students Hemalata managed to make it to the state merit list, with the 10th rank. She is a doctor today and has passed all exams with ying colours. We don’t want our students to excel only till the time they pass out of Amar Concept School. We want them to retain that attitude and the competitive spirit in later stages of their life. Your Role An engineer is not eligible for B.Ed, so I could never formally teach but I was at

Motivating Factor My entire family is in the U.S. There are times when I felt that I compromised on a luxurious life. But then I realized this school is my family and it feels great when little kids recognize me and my husband, feels like all the good work has paid off. All my regrets vanish whenever I think of the nobility of this profession. Your family My husband was my tenant and I fell in love with him. I sometimes think he has a remote control and can operate me the way he wants to. Yes, I am very dependent on him (laughs). We have two lovely daughters, Havisha and Venisha.

red | february 2015 | 99

other of Amar • I was the m y hool alone till m Sc t Concep . rn bo s wa er second daught bring up my Had no time to rst born. t ept School is no • Amar Conc r’ is powe an institution, it her in school • A lady teac a bigger role pl denitely ays a male as opposed to the faculty at of teacher. 70% School Amar Concept en. m wo s ise compr

Compromises My elder daughter is six-years-old, but I entered motherhood only two years ago when I had my second baby. Till then I was the mother of Amar Concept School alone. Now I am making an effort to spend time with my children. For Your Kids I don’t want my daughters to be subjected to any kind of favouritism, with teachers and students being lenient towards them. I don’t want them to compromise on discipline or take things for granted. Hence I send them to other schools. In Free Time I have a lot of free time now as I have taken a break. My husband keeps insisting that I come back to work. Currently I want to dedicate all my time and attention to my kids. They anyway miss out on time with their father. So I make up for both of us. I enjoy a game of badminton once in a while. Your Inspiration My father, Mr.Valluripalli Devi Ravindra Prasad was in the transport business and owned Devi Industries. He has always stood by me and guided me. It was my mother Mrs.Sita Devi who inculcated discipline in me.

Strength My family. Weakness I take people at face value. My heart goes out to anyone who tells me their sob story. Your Dream I don’t dream big. I wish to pass on the same values that my parents gave me be it culture or tradition or discipline. Society is changing so yes, they have to adapt to the new lifestyle but they have to imbibe good from the past and be good human beings. Amar Concept School It is not an institution, but a mighty power. When the teacher gives positive vibes, it leaves a positive impact on students’ lives. So we have a responsibility there, a power which can make or break an individual. Advice Starting a school is a great idea. You may face troubles, but like I said earlier, you will also have a unique power that you can unleash on the society. You can shape young minds. Just like a parent, a teacher plays a very important role in moulding a child’s future. A child spends his active and waking hours at school as

opposed to home. So teachers have a greater responsibility. Hence it is very important to choose good teachers. Also I feel when a teacher is a woman she naturally performs a double role, one of the teacher and the second of the nurturer. They look at teaching from a wider angle. A lady teacher in school denitely plays a bigger role as opposed to a male teacher. 70% of the faculty at Amar Concept School comprises women. Beyond Teaching I love designing. I design clothes for my entire family and can go to any length and travel any distance to get the materials of my choice. I keep travelling to Kanchi and Uppada all the time to get clothes. In fact, it was my father who dissuaded me from taking up dress designing as a career. My education was different, my interests were different and my professional life is different.

Rate yourself on a scale of 10 as a Human being: 10 Mother: 8 Teacher: 9 Administrator: Ask my husband Wife: 100

HYDERABAD

PLATTER By Sumana Reddy

Shoot by Dinakar Pamu

SUCCESS ON SILVER

arishma Jain’s favourite quote of Narendra Modi is- “Do not dream to be someone, but dream to do something great” and she certainly likes to translate it into action. A hundred years ago, her forefathers established a jewellery brand which continued as a family-run business. Somewhere along the line, between observing the customary gold jewellery and assorting splendid diamonds, she decided to do something unique, more for fun and just went-for-it. Her hard work and sheer talent pushed this feisty woman to launch a jewellery brand of her own around three and a half years ago.

Karishma Jain Jewellery Design As I already mentioned I ventured into designing silver jewellery. My jewellery is made of 92.5 sterling silver, with 22k goldplated on it. These pieces have a re-sale value, unlike brass metal ones, which do not. The customer who buys a piece for Rs.5000 is sure to get Rs.3000 after resale, because all my jewellery designs are hallmarked. I can surely say that the resale value for my silver jewellery is my USP. However, my mainstay is exports. All the jewellery pieces designed and manufactured here are exported to the

More recently, by launching Karishma Jain & Co, a store that offers high-quality tableware of world’s premium brands, she substantiated her competencies. It certainly is a proud moment to bring the unparalleled Versace, Rosenthal and Roberto Cavali along with other Italian brands to Hyderabad. She talks of this successful endeavour and how it took her career to a new height, in a long chat.

Excerpts Early Life Having migrated from Rajasthan, my ancestors made Hyderabad their home. I was born and brought up here and studied in St. Ann’s High School. I obtained my bachelors degree from Villa Marie College and pursued post graduation from London. I started silver jewellery business in Hyderabad after coming back. My family is into diamond jewellery business which goes by the name Lalchand Hasthmal Jewellers. We are both manufacturers and wholesalers for gold and diamond jewellery. We are also into nances like money lending and gold loans. My father, Mohanlal Jain is also the director for All India Gem and Jewellery Federation. I draw 100 % support from my family and without them; I would not have been successful.

US. My company, Karishma Jain Jewellery Design is almost three and a half years old and is quite established. I participated in many fashion shows and exhibitions in and around the country. Some movie stars are also seen wearing my jewellery. I have a loyal clientele in Bangalore, Chennai and Pune and my designs are valued for its metals and sensuous designs. Karishma & Co Karishma & Co is a unique luxury tableware store, which came into existence only three months ago. This idea of a

retail outlet for exclusive and high-end dinner ware is one of a kind in Hyderabad and it clicked instantly. I am happy to say that the top bureaucrats of the city are my clients. Initially, under the company Karishma Jain Jewellery Design, I was the supplier for Ekaani brand, which deals with 92.5 sterling silver coated gift items. I had been selling and supplying Ekaani for almost four years now and I am its only distributor in the whole of South India. Gradually, I received offers from other Italian brands to be their ofcial supplier in Hyderabad. We received these offers through my father’s close acquaintances. It was easy to crack the deal because of my father’s goodwill in the market. After I closed the deal with Versace and Rosenthal, I decided to open a brick-and-mortar store for all these brands. Recently I launched Roberto Cavali as well. RC has launched their tableware collection for the rst time in India and that too in my store! It was only later that the brand went to Mumbai. This is an achievement in itself. Versace is generally used by the elderly crowd and RC, by the younger ones. I also have renowned brands like Sabadin Vittorio, Astra Argenti, Recuardo, and Leader Argenti. Sabadin Vittorio has a collection of porcelain gurines of Indian deities, humans and animals handcrafted in 92.5% sterling silver studded with original swarovski crystals and plated with 24 Carat Gold. At Hyderabad It is a potential market. People here are more brand-conscious when compared to those from the other South Indian cities. I have a few regular buyers/collectors of different brands. These clients, who have a collection of high-end crockery, call their friends over for high tea and dinner for the pure pleasure of displaying their proud possessions. Of course, there are also people who do not know the brand value, yet they buy it for its beauty. The logic here is very simple. Instead of buying these luxury brands from other countries and risking breakage and customs, one can buy them at competitive prices in the city itself. red | february 2015 | 103

Hyderabad is a potential market. People here are brand conscious when compared to those from the other cities.

Challenges Finding a good location for the store was a challenge . It took me three months to nd the right place. My father believes in vaastu and meeting his demands was extremely difcult. I roamed every lane of Hyderabad for a month and a half. After nalising this place, the interiors took another three months. Many people appreciated this location. Another challenge is that people here prefer pure silver items to silver-plated ones. But Ekaani products are all silver-plated. One can buy these gift items even for Rs.1000. But few people know that the silver Ekaani uses is lacquered and would not tarnish. This is also my USP. For my jewellery collection, the only challenge is that my designs get replicated. However, I am quite content with the business. Turning Point The turning point of my life is the Karishma & Co store. I never thought it would work out as I never expected my father to give a ‘go ahead’ to my idea of launching a tableware store. In fact, he suggested the name and helped me in the brand positioning. I launched it at the time of Diwali, the biggest festival in our country, when

people exchange gifts. So I got a favourable response.

hearty. My father is very proud of of me.

Women Entrepreneur I am working in a man’s world. More often than not, I am the only girl present in the shows, in which I exhibit my silver jewellery. Hence I would take my father along. Yet another setback I face is that when I try to sell my products without using my father’s name, people don’t come forth with enthusiasm to sign deals with me. Despite all this chauvinism, I do get fairly good response in my jewellery line.

Even during my college days, I, along with a group of friends started a donating initiative. We collected old books, toys and old clothes from the college students and teachers and donated them to the poor and destitute. We gave chocolates and t-shirts to the ones who donated for this initiative. Apart from all this, I set- aside a certain percentage from the sales of my store to donate for good causes.

Philanthropy My family engages in a lot of social activities. Especially my grandfather is very generous and maintains a separate account for charity. I grew up seeing him help the needy. I remember he even gave his ats without taking a penny. My parents, who are members of Lions Club, actively participate in social service. As we are pure vegetarians, my mother gives talks in schools promoting vegetarianism and complete organic food. After listening to her, many students vow never to eat non-vegetarian food. Apart from this we contribute to go-shaalas and other charity homes. There are a few charity missionaries around clock tower in Secundrabad, whom we are constantly in touch with to render help. There is a group that knits crochet and my mother promotes their products amongst friends and family.

Future plans My dad wants me to get married this year! (laughs)

One memorable service activity that I engaged in was raising funds for a 10-year-old girl’s heart surgery. This was before I left for UK. Doctors said her days were numbered and we had to act fast. My family donated major share of the expenses and my dear friend Upasana Kamineni chipped in for the surgery. After the successful operation, the father of the girl was so overwhelmed that he even tried to touch my feet. That little girl is now 15 years old and is hale and

Advice for New Entrants Read the market thoroughly and then take a step. Also, try to deal with the customers directly. The customers feel pleased if the owner herself is furnishing details about her products. Rewarding Moment The most rewarding moment of my life undoubtedly is the response I received from the city after launching Rosenthal and Versace. Most of the people here bought the brands on display and responded warmly to my concept of luxury tableware. Names of all these brands carry a lot of weight. Having Wedgewood tableware in my store is the next target!

Rate Card How do you rate yourself on a scale of 10 as Entrepreneur: 7 Philanthropist: 8 Style icon: 6 Trendsetter: 6 Human being: 8

wellness

urrently, 8.2 million people die of cancer worldwide every year, out of which, four million people die prematurely (aged 30 to 69 years). The estimated number of new cancer patients in India, per year, stands at 7 lakh. Out of these, 2.3 lakh cases are tobacco related. The disease has led to the deaths of at least 3.5 lakh patients every year. Reducing alcohol consumption, improved physical activity levels and consuming a healthier diet brings down the gure by a whopping 50 %. February 4th, World Cancer Day, is a time when organizations and individuals around the world unite to end cancer and to turn it into a global health priority. It is an ideal

SYMPTOMS OF EARLY CANCER: • Change in bowel or bladder habits. • A sore that does not heal. • Unusual bleed or discharge. • Thickening or lump in breast or elsewhere. • Indigestion or difculty in swallowing. • Obvious change in wart or mole. • Nagging cough or hoarseness. CANCER SCREENING METHODS: MAMMOGRAPHY: Breast cancer PAPSMEAR: Cervical cancer LOW DOSE CHEST CT SCAN: Lung cancer COLONOSCOPY: Large bowel cancer SERUM PROSTATE SPECIFIC ANTIGEN: Prostate cancer ENDOSCOPY: Upper Gastro Intestinal cancer

MGCH & RI is established as a centre of excellence for comprehensive cancer care and prevention. The institute is one of the largest cancer treatment awareness centres in India. It provides seamless cancer care under one roof through its services including diagnostics, state - of-the- art therapies such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and symptom management to meet the needs of oncology patients. It promises a patient – centred approach to cure, for improving the quality of life and restoring hope. The hospital is built on strong ethics which drive strong co-operative relationships between physicians, nurses, staff and administration. Together, they shape the core philosophy of MGCH & RI.

opportunity to raise awareness of

CLEARING

CANCER COBWEBS

the steps to be taken to further develop the global cancer movement. The idea is to spread the word that solutions do exist and that they are within our reach. It is ‘NOT BEYOND US’. Around the world, communities hold festivals, walks, seminars, public information campaigns and other events to empower every individual and to raise awareness about their right to health and quality of life. Integration of early detection and screening of the health systems and access to essential cancer medicines and technologies are adept ways to ght the disease.

CANCER PREVENTION: • Avoidance of tobacco related products • Reduction of alcohol consumption • Healthier balanced diet • Regular physical activity, maintenance of good lifestyle and weight • Protection from ultra violet radiation • Avoidance of occupational and environmental exposure to carcinogens • Cancer vaccination for Hepatitis B Virus(HBV) and Human Papilloma Virus(HPV) MEETING THE CHALLENGES: • Empowering individuals with the right to health • Promoting an enabling environment for healthy living in the community • Urging governments to invest in health systems that support healthy lives like cancer prevention and inclusion of HPV, HBV vaccines in National Immunization Programmes • Raising awareness about cancer among communities • Integrating early detection and screening into health system • Investing in a skilled work force to deliver early detection • Strengthening health systems that deliver cancer prevention and care services • Improving access to essential cancer medicines and technologies • Reduce the nancial toll of cancer on individuals, families and economies • Cancer patients should be made aware of treatment related symptoms • Holistic, person centred, multidisciplinary approaches to cancer care should be made accessible • Fostering communities and health systems that support the highest quality of life • Advocating government to enable access to palliative care

Dr.Murali Krishna Voonna M.S. (General Surgery), M.Ch. (surgical oncology) SURGICAL ONCOLOGIST MANAGING DIRECTOR Mahatma Gandhi Cancer Hospital & Research Institute E-mail: muralivoonna@yahoo.com

VIZAG

PA R

It was a month dedicated to a lot of laughter and play at The Park. Among its various fun events the highlight was the Komedian Night organized by Vizag Komedians. The show was hosted by Raouf Gangjee and opening acts were by local comedians. Special attraction was performances by Praveen Kumar, ‘Forbes top 100 celebrities’ nominee and Vikramjit Singh, who is featured on NDTV. Next was the evening with Mala Pasha, when the cerebral artiste presented the drama “Tea with Everything” with her group The Torn Curtains. The play is an adaption of Neil Simon's "The Good Doctor". The audience was left spellbound by the collection of short plays which were cleverly styled with richly drawn characters, each ending on a surprise note. Everyone out there was all applause for Miss Pasha and urged for more of her dramatic magic.

V O N

L E T

The energetic nightlife at Novotel Varun Beach saw a fresh zeal as the party hoppers spent the bygone month with full josh. The revellers were spotted dancing to the tunes of the inhouse DJ, soaking in some weekend fun. Dressed and dolled up in their sartorial best and with family and friends in toe, the party freaks were seen chilling out thoroughly. They were chit-chatting, clicking aussies and selfies, grooving and relishing sumptuous food and heady drinks.

HYDERABAD

SHOWER OF BLESSINGS Talk about royal soiree for traditions and celebrations, Hyderabadis always get it right. One such traditional celebration was the Dhoti Ceremony of Krish, son of Shilpa and Srinivas Choudhary. Hosted by Kalyani Rakesh at Lanco Hills, the celebration was truly and typically Telugu in spirit. Guests, clad in ethnic saris and kurtas, rejoiced a delectable meal served in banana leaves. Aishwarya, Arpita, Fatima, Gayathri Reddy, Kalyani, Leela, Manasa, Manju, Meghana, Neelima, Rajini, Reshma, Sirisha, Swathi and Trushna were spotted at the gala.

VIZAG

It was a show of razzle-dazzle and extravagance when Priyanka, daughter of Lakshmi and

Shoot by Dhana Vijay

Seshubabu Kethavarapu, owner of SreeKanya Theatre, exchanged rings with Kailash Bysani, PRIYANKA son of Ramesh and Asha. V-Convention served as the posh venue to host this gala and sported an impressive floral decoration done by Alka Jaju. Priyanka’s sister Praneetha hosted & event. Priyanka looked charismatic in a chic red and blue lehenga choli, Kailash KAILASH’S the complemented her charm by donning a grey suit. City’s politicos, upper crust and crème de la were there as special invitees for this lavish affair and they were present in full RING CEREMONY crème attendance to congratulate the newly engaged couple.

THE GRAND KANKATALA KNOT Politicians to business tycoons to renowned artists, everyone seemed to have converged at the pre-marriage reception of Vishal, son of Kankatala Subba Rao and Nageswari with Venkata Sai Sindhura, daughter of Kanumarlapudi Lakshmi and the late Chandra Mohan of Kanigiri. It was held at the sprawling V-Convention hall of the Novotel Hotel. The reception oozed grandeur and elegance. But to be more precise, it was all and all Kankatala Mallik’s show. The décor of the venue in cream and white and the outfit of the bride and groom were matched to perfection. The food arrangements put a king’s feast to shame. From mocktails to a vast spread of delicacies, the guests were spoilt for choice. Many Union and State ministers, MPs and MLAs, besides top film personalities, bureaucrats, businessmen and industrialists graced the occasion.

HYDERABAD

SO-MAJESTIC MATRIMONY

Celebrating the moment that unites them together, Soma Swaroop, son of Mr. Soma Suresh Kumar and Mrs. Soma Dhana Lakshmi and Yachika, daughter of Mrs. and Mr. Dhawan gave a grand wedding reception for the family and friends at the JRC Convention Centre at Jubilee Hills. 27th January had been a memorable day not only for the couple, but also for the guests who turned up in ethnic wear and enjoyed the delectable spread. Music was churned out by DJ Yogi letting the celebration last till wee hours. Tamil Nadu Governor Mr. K Rosaiah graced the occasion. The magnificent evening also witnessed the presence of Arthi, Asmita Sood, Harsha, Sanjana, Kapil, Kavitha, Madhavi, Nikitha, Param, Poonam Kaur, Rashmi, Sangeeta, Sheetal, Shilpa, Sirisha, Vamshi, Venkat, Vishal, Yoganand and others.

Danam Nagender

Mohammad Ali Vishal

Kapil

Soma Ramakanth,Raja & RP Patnayak red | february 2015 | 118

Soma Shashi

KP Vivekananda

Akhil,Raja & Naren

Madhavi & Samala Venu

Ravindernath & Suman

Mr & Mrs Bigala Ganesh Gupta

Jyothi Sethi

Sanjjanna

Harsha & Sanjana

Asmita Sood

Nikitha Gitanjali & Rajesh Dhawan

Poonam Kaur

Ramesh & Dinesh Patel

Neeraj & Rajesh red | february 2015 | 119

CANCER (June 22 - July 22) ARIES (March 21-April 19) You will be constantly trying to make an important relationship work. Things may not always be simple in this period, but they will eventually lead to a more satisfactory married life. An older project might come back into focus. You may have to make some adjustments on the professional front, but on the whole there will be progress. You will have the opportunity to become opinion leaders. You may have to undertake professional trips that involve long distances, foreign countries or foreigners. Lucky for you: 7, Red

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) The first half of the month could be very romantic. It is a good period to spend more time with your partner, to have fun with friends or make future plans. Venus and Mars will stimulate teamwork and bring you supporters and popularity. The last week, however, could be problematic. Fits, accidents and other unpleasant episodes are likely to occur. Also on emotional level you will feel more isolated and lonely in the last week. Rely on the support of your family in such an event. Lucky for you: 6, Lemon

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21) Your feelings and wishes will acquire importance and prevail over reason in the coming days. It will be an excellent period for studies, research, writing, editing, publishing, conferences and interviews. The second and third weeks will be the most successful. Professional accomplishment will help you reap financial benefits too. But donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t exhaust yourself in this period. Make a list of priorities and focus on that alone. Lucky for you: 8, Light Blue

red | february 2015 | 120

It will not be very spectacular at the sentimental level. Don't neglect your ailments and do your best to lead a balanced and organized life. Be prudent with regards to financial procedures, especially in the first part of the month. The period with the greatest potential for success, which will be the most dynamic and the richest in possibilities, is the third week. All the factors that rule work, position, prestige and finances will be in powerful position. Be ready for attack and for great conquests. Seize the opportunity! Lucky for you: 17, Green

LEO (July 23 - Aug 22) There will be trips to take and reunions to attend, negotiations and a desire for changes or reorganization. You might, however, have the tendency to brood over everything and worrying too much. Money or friends can have an impact on your family matters. Communication will remain essential to sentimental life all throughout. In this period your interests will gravitate around relationships and your life partner will play an important role. Financial decisions will need to be weighed carefully, without haste and in a very realistic manner. Lucky for you: 1, Gold

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 - Dec 21)

VIRGO (Aug 23 - Sept 22)

Love is in the air and it could manifest itself in the most unexpected and surprising ways. The first part of the month will be largely spent evaluating relationships, the expectations you have of your significant other and what you can offer in return. This is the period where you will cherish privacy. The last week is for representing your interests and showing your talents. There is a chance to make good money. However, you also have the tendency to spend too much, as you want to look and feel good. Be careful of what you say and what you promise.

It is a very productive month professionally. You will be assigned important missions, be allowed autonomy at work and most probably you'll be captivated by what you do. You will interact with the others actively, start new partnerships or end some bonds that didn't please you. On the emotional front, the last week will be less passionate for you as compared to the first two when nothing can come in the way of your feelings. Try to behave in a more moderate and diplomatic way in your relationships. Lucky for you: 2, Navy Blue

Lucky for you: 3, Violet

LIBRA (Sept 23 - Oct 22) SCORPIO (Oct 23 - Nov 21) It will be a great month for fun and sentimental affairs. You will express your instincts with a lot of strength, get rid of inhibitions and flirt with youthful eagerness. This period will especially encourage new love stories. However, it is going to be a busy time. You will be in great shape in the first two weeks, with your batteries fully charged, lust for action and fast, precise reactions. The pressure, however, will be very high in the last week on the professional front, having the capacity to cause all sorts of glitches. Guard against nervous irritation, accidents and infections.

It is an excellent time for those in the field of arts and entertainment. You'll have an active, busy, pressing month that will demand a lot from you. Fortunately, the work, although hard, can also be pleasant. You will benefit from circumstances in professional life. You will know how to become the centre of attraction and would be able to place yourself in good light. It is possible that older problems will come to the surface or there could be misunderstandings due to inadequate communication with the partner. Give more time and attention to your family.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 - Jan 18) This month will be excellent for intellectual activities, training, acquisition of new knowledge and information, writing, editing etc. You will also do well in exams or interviews and will be able to calculate and negotiate with ease. The key to success this month is â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;communicationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. After a period of confusion at the beginning of the month, money will start coming your way. You will have strong will, good morale, but must take good care of your health. Avoid exhaustion. Lucky for you: 1, Brown

Lucky for you: 7, Pale Green

Lucky for you: 14, Crimson

AQUARIUS (Jan 19 - Feb 18) You will overwhelm your partner with affection but would also run the risk of expecting too much in return. You will have the attitude of a leader and will ooze strength, confidence and competence that will make you stand out in crowd. You will overcome a big obstacle which may have been troubling you for a long time. The month will be excellent for money, as long as you are moderate and don't allow greed to take control of you. Be careful while travelling in the last week because there will be the risk of accidents. Lucky for you: 4, Blue

PISCES (Feb 19 - March 20) Your desire to win somebody's affection will be at its peak, and the number of sentimental opportunities will grow. You will overflow with vitality and positive outlook at work. Sometimes your methods will be rash, aggressive or careless and you will tend to bite off more than you can chew. Try to force more discipline on yourself with regards to thinking and taking action on important issues. It is possible that there will be some mix-ups related to home or property. Lucky for you: 3, Lilac red | february 2015 | 121

VIZAG Adventure Sports Bunkers N Bonkers Vizag’s First “PAINTBALL ARENA” Near Senora Beach Resort, Sagar Nagar, Vizag - 17 Ph: 9959849922 / Facebook.com/bunkersnbonkers Advertising agency KBGS The Advertisers Newspaper - TV - Radio Siripuram towers, Siripuram, Opp: HSBC call centre,Vizag Ph. 8008 550351,352 & 353 Air Conditioners Ramcor Enterprises Pvt Ltd/ Cool Concepts Authorised Sales & Service Dealers for Air Conditioners (Voltas / Daikin / Panasonic / Lloyd / Samsung / Water Coolers / Deep Freezers / Bottle Coolers) - 12-1-18, Waltair Main Road, Beside Hotel Green Park Vizag - 2. M : 9848778771 / 9848778775 / 9848778681 / 9912796400 / T : 0891 - 2706825 / 2706037 Branch Off : Fort Gate, Rajamundry T : 0883 - 2476360 Apparel Kankatala Textiles Pvt. Ltd. VSquare Mall, Dwarakanagar, Visakhapatnam - 530 016. T: 0891 6633336 Panache By The Raymond Shop D.No: 30-15-163, Ground Floor, E.J.Periera Manor, Dabagardens, Visakhapatnam - 530020, T: 0891-6536666, Siripuram Fort, Waltair Uplands Road, VSP-530013 T: 0891-6532666 One Stop Family Store

Sri Vamsi Textiles Pvt Ltd Sarees / Salwars / Chudidhars / Readymades / Kidsware / Furnishings & Accessories #30-15-136, Lorven Plaza, Dabagardens, Visakhapatnam-530020 T:0891 6698888 E:sri_vamsi90@yahoo.com/ W: www.srivamsi.com Architecture Fourth Dimension Architecture Architecture|Planning|Interiors 8-1-86/12, #7, First Floor, Annapurna Complex, Peda Waltair, Visakhapatnam-17, T: 0891-6464169 M: 9885160036 E: harsha@4darch.in www.4darch.in Project Inc Architecture, Interiors, Landscape 101, Venu Regency Plaza, Beside Raghavendra Swamy Temple, Ramnagar, Vizag - 530 002. T: 0891 2568228, 9550036999 E: projectinc@ymail.com www.projectinc.in Beauty Bon Chic D.No. 55-10-32, HPCl Millinium Outlet, Siripuram, Visakhapatnam T: 0891-2733619, M: 7032662442 www.bonchic.co.in. Cute’s Beauty Clinic D.No.12-4-29, Opp. Vaartha, Jagadamba Junction, Vizag-3. T: 0891-6539485, Radhika / Bhavani : 9866051649 Boutique Aarna #7-19-2, Kirlampudi Layout, Behind Syndicate Bank, Chinna Waltair, Vizag. T: 0891-2549999 Blossoms - Exclusive Boutique for Women Near Sampath Vinayaka Temple, CBM Compound, Visakhapatnam. M: 9985334444, 9966682222 GORGEOUS boutique - Designer Sarees, Salwar Suits, Tunics and Bed Covers. Tailoring Available 11am to 8pm MVV Estates, Opp. Kotak School, Chinna Waltair, Vsp - 17 T : 0891 - 2727894 M : 9533308552

Sona (Extn.) Boutique #13-1-1c, St. Anthony Church Complex, Nr. Jagadamba Centre, Maharanipeta, Vizag - 530 002. T: 0891 2792407 Car Accessories Andhra Accessories (Andhra Ax) Jyothi Enclave, A-3, Ram Nagar, Beside Lions Club Visakhapatnam - 530 002. T: 0891 - 6617894 M : 9966202084 Catering & Cooking Services Srinivasa Catering & Cooking Service Our Services : Veg & Non Veg, South Indian & North Indian Door No. 21-29-8, Ganneru Street, Near Chinta Chettu, Vizag-01 T: Ch. Srinivas - 0891 2737430 / Ch. M. Raju - 9966664673 / Shyam - 9985988744 / Jana - 8790799799 Cell Shops Mobi Care Professional mobile phone service & training centre, Opp. Woodland showroom, 1st floor, Daba Gardens, Visakhapatnam - 530 020 T: 0891 6468887 Shop No.34, 4th Floor, CMR Centrel, Maddilapalem,Vizag Ph: 0891-656 8887 Unit No.2, Ground Floor, Chitralaya Cine Mall, Visakhapatnam, Ph: 0891-644 6666 New Raj Mobiles - Sales & Service H.O.: Opp. Wood Land Showroom, Beside Old Amaravathi Hotel, Dabagardens, Vizag. T: 0891-6646447 B.O.:Opp. Kanya Sri Kanya Theatre, Shop No.1, Aditya Lodge, Old Gajuwaka, Vizag. T: 0891-6646449 US SHOPPEE Vizag’s leading store for multi brand mobile phones & gadgets Beach Road, Satyam Jn. Visakhapatnam. T: 98485 98485, 99851 23799, 0891 2792244. Confectioners Bakers Castle Prasanna Foods: Siripuram Towers, Opp. HSBC, Next to Lee & Arrow, Siripuram, Visakhapatnam - 530 002. T: 0891 2578889, 9000008889, 0891 6690989 Near Rama Talkies, CBM Compound, Visakhapatnam - 530 003. T: 0891 2518000 Desi Delights Punjabi Grill & Mr & Mrs IDLY The famous Taste of Chawla’s Cream Chicken from Ludhiana @ Punjabi Grill (Lunch & Dinner 11am to 11pm), The Famous Taste of Chennai-South Indian Tiffins @ Mr & Mrs IDLY (7am to 12pm, 4pm to 8pm) at Fish Aquarium, Beside Kali Temple, R.K. Beach Road, Vizag. T: 0891-6625777/6625778 M: 9393116428/7569535851 Eat Fresh Sub Way Dutt Island, Siripuram - 0891-2784911 Event Managers Krosswire Entertainment Specalized in: Event Management • Artiste & Talent Management • Corporate Events • Theme Parties • Birthday Parties • Wedding Planning • DJ Parties • Product Launch & Promotions • Mall Activations • Fashion Shows • International Performers • Celebrity Endorsements etc. Visakhapatnam, Hyderabad, Vijayawada T: 9885118789, 9346997556 www.krosswire.com E: krosswire@gmail.com & info@krosswire.com

Razzmatazz Theme Decorations, Set Designs, Entertainment, Floral arrangements. You name it WE HAVE IT! T: 9052024650, 9348623223, razzrahul1@gmail.com, www.razzmatazz.in

Florist & Decorator’s Sugandhikaa Theme party decoration’s, Wedding decoration’s, Birthday party decoration’s, Flower Bouquets, Gift & wedding packing Plot No.20, Daspalla Hill’s, Visakhapatnam. M: 9440731765, E: alkajaju@hotmail.com Gifts & Handicrafts Eastern Art Museum #10-1-9/1, Waltair Uplands, Sampath Vinayak Temple Road, Visakhapatnam - 530 003. T: 0891 6647880 F: 0891 2562775 E: easternartmuseum@gmail.com Hair Transplantation Radha - International Institute of Hair Transplant #103, Siripuram Fort, Siripuram, Opp. Union Chapel Church, Vizag - 530 003 T: 0891 6458111, 9177777192 E: contact@hairclinicindia.com www.hairclinicindia.com Health & Fitness Deepa’s Total Fitness Add Life Premises, 1st Floor, Pandurangapuram Temple Road, Opp. Officers Club, Vizag. T: 9885674016 Homoeopathy Vandana Homoeopathic Hospital Shop no. 4, Dwarakanagar, 2nd Lane, Pavan Paradise, Opp. Pollocks School, Vizag - 530 016. T: 0891 2755747, 9948416772 Hotels Hotel Green Park Waltair Main Road, Visakhapatnam - 530 001. Ph: 0891 6615151 Hotel Meghalaya Dr. No. 10-4-15, Ramnagar, Asilmetta Junction, Visakhapatnam T: 0891 2755141 / 145 Novotel Beach Road, Vizag T: 1860 500 2020, +91 891 2822 222 E: h7535-re@accor.com, www.novotel.com The Palm Beach Nr. RK Beach, Waltair Uplands, Beach Road, Visakhapatnam T: 0891 2754026 / 27 The Dasapalla Suryabagh, Visakhapatnam. T: 0891 25564825 / 2563141 The Park Beach Road Visakhapatnam. T: 0891- 3045678 Industrial Pipes & Valves M/s Preeti Tubes #28-16-12, Suryabagh, Visakhapatnam-20. T: 0891-2526062 M: 9849126062 E: sales@preetitubes.com M/s Menda Steels, Visakhapatnam. T: 0891-2506062 E: mendasteels@gmail.com Interior Design Studio - Interior designers & consultants C2, Aakruthi, 10-1-9, Waltair uplands, Visakhapatnam - 530 003. T: 0891 2561586 F: 0891 2562775 E: designstudio2000@hotmail.com, www.designstudiointeriors.in Project Inc Architecture, Interiors, Landscape 101, Venu Regency Plaza, Beside Raghavendra Swamy Temple, Ramnagar, Vizag - 530 002. T: 0891 2568228, 9550036999 E: projectinc@ymail.com www.projectinc.in International Couriers Sampath Vinayaka Express Services 47-10-37, Ratnadham Arcade, Dondaparthi Road, Near Diamond Park, Visakahapatnam - 530016 T: 0891-6636285, 6536880, M: 9291901303, Branch: 8-3-677/9, Plot No.:9, HDFC Atm Lane, Sri Krishna Devaraya Nagar Colony, Srinagar Colony Post, Yellareddyguda, Hyderabad - 5300073, M: 9299991539, E: krishna_kod@yahoo.co.uk Jewellery MVS. Jewel Park Ramatalkies Road, Vizag - 530 003. T: 0891 2509591/92/93

Kids Wear Hey Kiddo! Opp. St. Anthony Church, Jagadamba Centre, Hotel Green Park Road, Visakhapatnam-530002. T: 0891-2529898, M:9052529898 Lingerie Flames We Cover Your Bare Necessities Pavan Enclave, Opp. HDFC, Daba Gardens, Vizag - 530 020. T: 0891 6644455 E: flameslingerie@yahoo.co.in Inner Elegance Shop No.: 25, VUDA Complex, Siripuram Jn., Vizag - 530 003. T: 0891 6647882 Marbles Archean Granites & Italian Marbles #52-4-6, Resapuvanipalem, Beside CMR Central, Visakhapatam - 530 013. T: 0891 2753188, 9440190226 H.O: 3-80, S.No. 52 & 53, Rama Gardens, NH-5, Yendada Vizag - 530 045. T: 0891-2782035, E: raju_archean@yahoo.co.in Mattresses Agarwal Home Comforts #48-18-75,Near Rama Talkies, Bullaya College Road, Vizag - 530 013. T: 0891 6637111, 9849577711 E: thevizag@gmail.com www.agarwalcomforts.com Real Estate Prasad's Township Pvt Ltd., #47-13-2, 2nd Floor, Lakshmi Arcade, Beside Sankaramatam, Dwarakanagar, VSP -16. NAD Jn. & Gajuwaka. Plot cost 99,000/for 100sq.yard & 200, 300, 400, 500, 1000 size Plots are available. Sreeram Nagar Layout Kothavalasa-Anandapuram road. a.kothapalli village, Devarapalli Mandalam, Visakhapatnam. T: 0891-2541229, 9912411477 Saloon ABDUL’S- Men Beauty Parlour & Family Salon Branches: A1 # 11-4-5/1, Shop No 4, Nowroji Road, Maharanipeta, Vizag - 2. T : 0891 - 2792812M : 9951173787. A2- Family Salon: # 58-01-336, 1st Floor, Near Bashyam Public School, Baji junction, Vizag - 02. T: 0891 - 6557737 www.abdulsthesaloon.in Abhay Spikes The Men's Salon #24, Vuda Complex, Opp. Gurajada Kalashetram, Siripuram, Vizag - 530 001. T: 9885027449, 0891-2727449 Avenue Hair & Beauty Unisex Salon Hair, Skin & Make-up Haritha Arcade # 10-50-54/1, Opp. Lions Club, Waltair Main Road, Ram Nagar, Vizag - 02. T : 0891-2520666, 8297120666 / 9966722395 Jawed Habib Hair & Beauty Ltd. For Men & Women #9-14-5, Praveen Plaza, VIP Road, Siripuram, Vizag - 530 003. T: 0891-2521142, 6667288, 8106788000 #58-14-51, Journalist Colony, Marripalem, Vizag - 530 009. T:0891-2780082 / 83 Well Groom - The Saloon Special packages for grooms Shop No: 4, Nr. HSBC, VUDA Complex, Siripuram, Vizag. T: 0891-6649488, 9849873999, www.wellgroom.in

Solar Systems Emandi Solar Systems #28-10-17/1, 2nd Floor, Emandi Lakshmi Towers, Suryabagh, Opp.GVMC, E-Seva, Vizag-530020. M: 9848197055, 9866444644, E: BORG@Emandi.IN & EKLRao@EmandiSolar.Com, WWW.EmandiSolar.Com

VIZAG Tours & Travels Travel Links D.No.30, Satya Surya Complex, Dwarakanagar, Vizag-16 T: 98483101117, 9246616117, 9246618117, E: priyatravellinks@yahoo.com Siva Shakthi Travels Near Laxmi Ganapathi Temple, Visakha Eye Hospital Down, Pedawaltair Main Road, VSP T: 0891-2743338, M: 9246433338, 9848211093 E: sivashakthitravelsvsp@gmail.com www.sivashakthitravelsvsp.in Web Design Colour Moon Technologies Pvt. Ltd., Website: www.thecolourmoon.com Email: info@thecolourmoon.com Mobile: 9885281291, 9676600666 Branches: Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada. Wedding Planners V-Team Wedding Management Theme Decor, Sets, Entertainment, Mehendi, Sangeeth, “A to Z” for any event. Veerumama: 9348143927. E: veerumama9@gmail.com, www.vizagno1.com Private Hospitals HYDERABAD

General POLICE - 100 FIRE - 101 AMBULANCE - 102 Amblance : EMRI - 108 Pharmacies Apollo Pharmacy - 91-040-23231380 Govt. Hospitals NIMS,Panjagutta-23396552/23320332 RailwayHospital,Sec'bad-27001134/27789168 BloodBanks ChiranjeeviBloodBank-91-040-23555005 Airport Hyderabad International Airport - 66764000/67394099 Railway Inquiry Train enquiry - 139 Reservation enquiry - 135 Roadway Enquiry Jubilee bus station - 27802203 www.apsrtc.gov.in

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SPOT THE DIFFERENCES

P I N G P O N G

W A R G A M E S

B O A T I N G B

M U S I C A R T

D O M I N O E S

V N S K I I N G

Chill Vacant Ccomplete New Ready

Scare Available Prompt Fresh Different

Pert

Decent

Done

Clean

Abate

B O W L I N G O

Relax

MATCH THE WORDS

I N T E R N E T

FIND THE WORDS

ANSWERS

3) If today is Tuesday, what is the day after the day before the day before tomorrow?

2 In 1985, a person is 15 years old. In 1990 that same person is 10 years old. How is this possible?

Note:There is only one correct answer.

1) How would you rearrange the letters in the words new door to make one word?

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1) One Word! 2) The dates are in BC. 3) Tuesday.

RNI: APENG/2011/38387 | POSTAL REG. NO. VSP/177/2014-2016