Bangalore, India : Coming up is "News", a Kannada film featuring Upendra and the glamorous Reema Sen as journalists. Director N.K. Maheshwaran, talking about the film by Vidya Enterprises, said it is about "investigative journalism". The Chennai-based filmmaker had earlier directed a Kannada film, "Vikram", and even written the story and script for the award-winning film "Nandi". Upendra and Reema play journalists in the film, while Renuka Menon and Amrutha also feature in the movie. In Bangalore Palace, the sets of the film where reporters were invited, sequences featuring Upendra, Reema Sen, Renuka Menon and new actress Kiran were being shot. Senthil Kumar, who had earlier wielded the camera for Rajnikanth's "Arunachalam", was in charge when reporters were invited to the sets. Upendra, playing the role of a journalist for the first time, said he was impressed by the story.
Garbage truck runs amok, kills two, injures six
Thursday, June 24, 2004
BANGALORE: A schoolgirl and an elderly man were killed on the spot and six were injured as a Bangalore City Corporation garbage truck ran amok in a school zone, crashing into trees and parked vehicles at Manjunathnagar on Wednesday afternoon. The incident took place on Thimmaiah Road around 3.45 p.m. when the schools nearby had closed for the day. The garbage lorry was coming from Modi junction. Police said the lorry being driven rashly crashed into a tree on the left of the road and climbed on the footpath. Such was the speed, the vehicle crashed into another tree and bounced off. Pedestrians Ananthapadmanabha Shetty (72), a tailor, and Ashwini (11) were were mowed down. Both died on the spot. The driver then reversed the vehicle and took a sharp right, crashing into a parked school van and a moving autorickshaw. Two children in the Maruti van belonging to East West School was injured along with the van driver. Continuing to go berserk, the driver knocked down Revamma who was walking on the pavement, before coming to a halt. The driver fled in the melee that followed. The police said Shetty’s grandchildren had a providential escape. Shetty, a resident of Manjunathnagar was on his way home with his grandchildren who were barely a few feet away when Shetty was knocked down. Ashwini, the other victim, was a student of Shivanagar Government School and was on her way home with friends. The other girls, Annapoorna and Shilpa, were injured and admitted to hospital. Revamma, returning home after collecting gold ornaments given for polishing, has been admitted to Mallya Hospital. She has been injured in the ribs, the police said. The police have traced the lorry owner are looking out for the driver. Angry residents alleged the truck driver was drunk.
No hike in bus fares: Kharge
Thursday, June 24, 2004
BANGALORE: The Government has not taken any decision to hike Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) bus fares in the wake of steep hike in oil prices. Transport Minister Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday said he is yet to go through the loss incurred by the KSRTC due to the price hike.
Karnataka hints at stoppage of water release to Tamil Nadu
Thursday, June 24, 2004
PTI MYSORE: The outflow from Kabini reservoir dropped from 6,146 to 1,000 cusecs on Wednesday after a sharp decline in inflows, official sources said hinting that water release to Tamil Nadu might cease if the situation failed to improve. The inflows, which were in the order of 6,480 cusecs in the morning, came down to 500 cusecs by evening, forcing the irrigation department officials to scale down the outflow, the sources said. The inflow and outflow recorded on Tuesday was 13,577 and 14,000 cusecs respectively. Karnataka released water from Kabini to Tamil Nadu after the water level was about to touch the danger mark with heavy inflows due to copious rains in Waynad region in Kerala. Similarly the inflows in KRS Reservoir has also dropped from 7,827 cusecs on Tuesday to 4,261 cusecs today, sources said. Currently, the water level of KRS stood at 103.47 ft as against the Full Reservoir Level of 124.80 ft.
Karnataka hints at stoppage of water release to Tamil Nadu
Thursday, June 24, 2004
PTI MYSORE: The outflow from Kabini reservoir dropped from 6,146 to 1,000 cusecs on Wednesday after a sharp decline in inflows, official sources said hinting that water release to Tamil Nadu might cease if the situation failed to improve. The inflows, which were in the order of 6,480 cusecs in the morning, came down to 500 cusecs by evening, forcing the irrigation department officials to scale down the outflow, the sources said. The inflow and outflow recorded on Tuesday was 13,577 and 14,000 cusecs respectively. Karnataka released water from Kabini to Tamil Nadu after the water level was about to touch the danger mark with heavy inflows due to copious rains in Waynad region in Kerala. Similarly the inflows in KRS Reservoir has also dropped from 7,827 cusecs on Tuesday to 4,261 cusecs today, sources said. Currently, the water level of KRS stood at 103.47 ft as against the Full Reservoir Level of 124.80 ft.
Films don't flop because of me: Rakshita
Thursday, June 24, 2004
Bangalore, June 23 (IANS) : At the moment her career graph doesn't present a rosy picture. But Bangalore girl Rakshita, who spread her wings beyond Kannada cinema to Telugu and Tamil films, told IANS in an interview that she wasn't the reason why some of her films flopped. "You will soon see a remarkable change in me. I will bounce back with some good film," Rakshita, the daughter of former actress Mamatha Rao, said. Excerpts: Q: Are you disappointed with the failure of your recent films like "Andhrawala" in Telugu that really affected your progress in Telugu cinema? A: Well, disappointment is part of this profession, but I look at this whole issue positively. I had three continuous hits in the Telugu film industry and even "Lakshminarasimha", which had only an item number by me, was successful. "Andhrawala" was a much-hyped film. Its failure has made me understand the vagaries of the film industry. I had two hits recently - "Shivamani" in Telugu with Nagarjuna, which has completed 100 days in many centres, and "Gokarna" with Upendra, which was also a money-spinner. The fact is that during the early part of my career I had a series of huge hits, but now I am seeing a phase of flops and successes. My two recent Kannada releases, "Vijaya Simha" and "Avale Nanna Gelathi", were also flops, but now I am busy acting in more Kannada films. Obviously, the industry has not identified me as the reason for these flops. It was due to many other factors. For example, since these two films were released after a considerable length of time after they got ready, the audience interest in the projects waned. These things, like the release of films, are not in my control. I have decided to give the best and hope for good results. My career is not on a downslide. I am still busy acting in films like "Kalasipalya". Another film, "Ayya", was launched recently. I have two more offers in Kannada films, about which I have still not decided. One Telugu film directed by K. Raghavendra Rao is on the cards. I have completed two schedules of shooting for a Tamil film, "Madhura", with Vijay in the lead role. This film is directed by Madesh. Q: Your bilingual film "Love" in Kannada and "Premnagar" in Telugu is reported to be complete and ready for a June end release. It has been shot in different locations, different countries and is being directed by a well-known director like S.V. Rajendra Singh Babu. What are your expectations from this film? A: About "Love" I am really confident because all of us have put in a lot of hard work. The film has been a dream opportunity not only for the hero, Audithya, who is being launched in this film, but also for me. I am also happy that veteran artistes like Mohan Lal and Amrish Puri are part of this film. I don't say that I have an extraordinary role in the film, but certainly it is better compared to many roles that I have done recently. I have really worked hard for the film, which has been shot in diverse places like Dubai, Hyderabad, Chikmagalur, Madikeri and Varanasi in varying temperatures. If my fans are looking for a performance-oriented role from me, I think "Love" should fit the bill. Q: Was it not risky to do an item number in the Telugu film "Lakshminarasimha" when you were doing main roles in Telugu and Kannada films? Will you continue to do item numbers? A: It was an offer I could not refuse. It was also be the first time I was part of a film that had Telugu superstar Balakrishna in the lead. But I would not like to be slotted as an item number artiste, though many well-known heroines in the film industry are not averse to doing item numbers. Q: Where do you stand in the industry today? Are you happy about the way your career has progressed? A: I am certainly happy and contented. In this short span of time, I have already acted with top stars like Puneet Raj Kumar, Sudeep, Vijaya Raghavendra and Darshan in Kannada, NTR, Shivamani and Venu in Telugu and Silambarasan in Tamil. If I have had to face some failures during my stint, it is only natural and part of this profession. You will see me bouncing back with some good films. I am highly bullish about "Love". One more happy news is that I will be lending my voice to the film. I will continue to dub for Kannada films for the time being, and switch over to dubbing for other language films, god willing.
Kanti
Tuesday, June 22, 2004
Film: "Kanti"; Director: Bharat; Producer: R.S. Srinivas, Company Productions; Cast: Murali, Ramya, Mumthaaz; Music: Guru Kiran. "Kanti" has been shot intensively in Belgaum, a town of Karnataka involved in a long border dispute with Maharashtra besides having a language problem that crops up occasionally to disturb its peace. "It is an issue-based story with an interesting love angle. But my narration has a commercial aspect," says young Bharat who has written the story and screenplay of the film. "The film will be entertaining as well. If people get entertained and feel strongly about the message of the film, I would be happy." Bharat says his first directorial venture will be visually rich as he has put the focus on ambience. This will be the second film for young hero Murali, who had a big launch in the S. Narayan-directed "Chandra Chakori", last year's runaway hit. Already a sought after star, he says the story and characterisation impressed him. He just followed the instructions of the director and enjoyed shooting for more than 40 days in Belgaum. The film was shot with the participation of thousands of junior artistes and local people. The heroine is Ramya, who is credited with two big hits, "Abhi" and "Excuse Me" and has been drafted into Telugu and Tamil films. This is her fourth Kannada film. "My three earlier films were successful and my performance in each was liked," she says. She plays the role of a Marathi girl in love with a Kannada boy. "I am happy that there is a good message for people," says Ramya. Guru Kiran's audio was released two months ago and the songs have been received well. Two of the song sequences have been shot in Switzerland. There is also a song sequence featuring Mumthaaz.
State released 14,000 cusecs of water to Tamil Nadu: Dharam Singh
Saturday, June 19, 2004
BANGALORE: Chief Minister N Dharam Singh said that the State had released about 14,000 cusecs of water to Tamil Nadu from Kabini reservoir, over the last three days. Speaking to mediapersons here on Friday, Dharam Singh said that the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh spoke to him over telephone and requested to release water to Tamil Nadu. State was receiving unprecedented rains over the last few days and consequently the State had decided to release 14,000 cusecs of water to Tamil Nadu. People living in the low-lying areas along the Cauvery in the State had been asked to move to safer locations as the water release would continue for the next three days, Dharam Singh said. Decision on further releases would be taken after reviewing the situation which depended on inflows. In his telephonic conversation, Prime Minister had requested to release some water to Tamil Nadu for helping the farmers, Singh said. In the wake of higher inflows into the reservoir, the irrigation department officials suggested that water has to be let out keeping in mind the dam safety as the water level was about to touch the danger mark, Singh said. According to official sources, State is expected to release about three tmc ft of water to Tamil Nadu.
Karnataka releases water to Tamil Nadu on Manmohan's request
Friday, June 18, 2004
Bangalore, Jun 18 Karnataka has started releasing Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu on the request of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Chief Minister N Dharam Singh said today. Water was flowing from Kabini reservoir and not from Krishnaraja Sagar, Hemavathy and Harangi, Singh told reporters here. PTI
Monalisa
Friday, June 18, 2004
The film is certainly a big hit and producer Dushyanth is laughing his way to the bank. Directed by Indrajith Lankesh and starring Dhyan and Sada, it has been sold to all distribution areas within four weeks of its release. Even the satellite rights are now fetching a good price. Trade pundits say it has made more than Rs.25-million. Indrajith is hoping to dub the film in Telugu.
Durgi
Friday, June 18, 2004
Though the initial collections of the film were good, the film did not match up to expectations in the fourth week. The saleable feature of the film lies in its the action sequences. It will certainly not be a loss for producer Ramu who spent a fortune on the film's publicity.
Ramakrishna
Friday, June 18, 2004
The film opened very well in all the centres because it had good stars. Ravichandran and Jaggesh have come together in this laugh riot, with Laila and Kalyani providing support. "Ramakrishna" got a good opening thanks to Ravichandran's previous film "Malla" being a massive hit.
Malla
Friday, June 18, 2004
The biggest hit of the year, "Malla" has completed hundred days in many centres of Karnataka. Producer Ramu and director-actor Ravichandran are reported to be thinking of organising celebrations in a big way. The Rs.30-million film is expected to rake in Rs.100 million. weeks, but dropped later.
Ranga
Friday, June 18, 2004
The film will complete its 50th day in Bangalore this week, but it was a letdown for many film fans who had higher expectations from director Yogaraja Bhat. The producer will just about break even and distributors will get some commission only because of actor Sudeep's box-office appeal. The collections were good in the first two weeks, but dropped later.
Top five Kannada films
Friday, June 18, 2004
Bangalore, June 17 (IANS) : Here are the top five films on the Kannada screen: 1. "Monalisa": The film is certainly a big hit and producer Dushyanth is laughing his way to the bank. Directed by Indrajith Lankesh and starring Dhyan and Sada, it has been sold to all distribution areas within four weeks of its release. Even the satellite rights are now fetching a good price. Trade pundits say it has made more than Rs.25-million. Indrajith is hoping to dub the film in Telugu. 2. "Ramakrishna": The film opened very well in all the centres because it had good stars. Ravichandran and Jaggesh have come together in this laugh riot, with Laila and Kalyani providing support. "Ramakrishna" got a good opening thanks to Ravichandran's previous film "Malla" being a massive hit. 3. "Malla": The biggest hit of the year, "Malla" has completed hundred days in many centres of Karnataka. Producer Ramu and director-actor Ravichandran are reported to be thinking of organising celebrations in a big way. The Rs.30-million film is expected to rake in Rs.100 million. 4. "Durgi": Though the initial collections of the film were good, the film did not match up to expectations in the fourth week. The saleable feature of the film lies in its the action sequences. It will certainly not be a loss for producer Ramu who spent a fortune on the film's publicity. 5. "Ranga": The film will complete its 50th day in Bangalore this week, but it was a letdown for many film fans who had higher expectations from director Yogaraja Bhat. The producer will just about break even and distributors will get some commission only because of actor Sudeep's box-office appeal. The collections were good in the first two weeks, but dropped later.
RS: Cong-BJP to fight for the fourth member
Friday, June 18, 2004
BANGALORE: Union Minister Oscar Fernandes, BJP National President Venkiah Naidu were among the five candidates, who have filed nomination for the biennial election to Rajya Sabha to be held on June 28, for four vacancies from Karnataka. The other three candidates include wife of former Union Commerce Minister late Ramakrishna Hegde - Shakuntala Hegde (BJP), B K Hariprasad (Congress) and industrialist and race horse owner M A M Ramaswamy from JD(S). While B K Hariprasad filed his nominations on Tuesday, others filed nominations on Wednesday. Thursday is the last day for filing nominations With five candidates entering the field, the election is raising curiosity as to who would be the candidate to be eliminated. The BJP and its ally JD(U), with a tally of 84 votes would have to look for six more legislators to ensure the election of two of its candidates - Naidu and Shakuntala Hegde, as each winning nominee has to secure 45 first preference votes. The JD(S) with 58 members would easily ensure victory of Ramaswamy and the party has decided to transfer its 13 surplus votes to Congress. Congress has taken a gamble by fielding two candidates, though it has 65 members. Along with JD(S) surplus votes 78 and with six independent members Congress tally goes up to 84, still, short of six votes. The Congress has decided to allot the required number of votes to Oscar Fernandes and try to get support for Hariprasad. As things stand now, Shakuntala Hegde and Hariprasad would be fighting for the fourth seat.
CET: Candidates point out wrong answer, panel to verify
Friday, June 18, 2004
BANGALORE: On the request of a few candidates who had appeared for the Common Entrance Test (CET) to check a particular answer key in Physics, the CET Cell authorities have represented the matter before the expert committee for verification. Candidates had pointed out that one of the key answers provided by the Cell was incorrect. According to CET Cell officials, the expert panel would be looking into the matter and the students will be given a fair deal, since the CET maintains transparency.
Displacement of Kannadigas: Council advises sending minister to Goa
Friday, June 18, 2004
BANGALORE: Karnataka Legislative Council Deputy Chairman VR Sudarshan on Thursday suggested to the state government to depute a senior minister to Goa for taking up the cause of over 600 kannadiga families being "displaced" by the Goa government. Intervening a discussion on the issue in the Council, Sudarshan felt that there was a need to build confidence among the affected families and it would be appropriate if a senior minister from Karnataka holds talks with the Goa government and prevail upon that government to ensure rehabilitation of those families. Earlier, raising the issue, All India Progressive Janata Dal (AIPJD) member Basavaraj Bommai brought to the government's notice that the kannadiga families settled along the Baina beach in Goa had migrated for want of employment from the North Karnataka districts of Bijapur, Bagalkot, Belgaum and Gulbarga. They have been issued with ration cards and also voter identity cards. He pointed out that the Supreme Court had ordered eviction of settlements along beachside but has also ordered that the respective state governments should ensure their rehabilitation before evacuating them. In his reply, Floor leader and water resources minister Mallikarjuna M Kharge informed the member that the state chief secretary KK Misra had already written to his Goa counterpart in this regard and had appealed to him to protect the interests of the kannadiga families there. Dissatisfied with the reply, Bommai maintained that the situation was very precarious and the kannadigas there were very insecure and he sought the intervention of chief minister Dharam Singh to overcome the situation. OPPOSITION DHARNA : The Opposition members (BJP and AIPJD) staged a dharna in the well of the House demanding constitution of a joint house committee to look into the multi crore rupee rice scandal. With the government relenting to the demand, the Opposition members continued the dharna leading to an adjournment of the proceedings for the day. The dharna is likely to be resumed on Friday. Participating in the resumed discussion on the issue, leader of the Opposition DH Shankara Murthy and his colleagues argued that a probe by a joint house committee would help in unearthing many vital issues involved and also expose all those connected with the scandal. Parliamentary affairs Minister M P Prakash who made a statement on the issue informed the House that the COD had done a commendable job within a short span and it had already arrested nine persons in this connection. Stating that setting up of a joint house committee to look into the issue was not appropriate as it would be impossible and time-consuming for the committee to visit all the 28 districts and probe into it, Prakash also pointed out that such a committee had no powers to either file a chargesheet or initiate prosecution proceedings. However, while rejecting the demand for a joint house committee, Prakash offered to refer the issue to the Public Accounts committee (PAC) of the legislature as it had "inherent" powers to initiate action against the culprits. Even the leader of the house Mallikarjuna M Kharge, who intervened, asked the opposition to agree for referring the issue to the PAC which would be headed by a member of the opposition. But the opposition members led by Shankara Murthy trooped into the well of the house demanding setting up of a joint house committee. When repeated pleas by the government to withdraw the dharna was not considered by the Opposition, Sudarshan adjourned the house for the day.
HAL set to fly into global civil aircraft market
Friday, June 18, 2004
BANGALORE :Bangalore-based defence Public Sector Undertaking, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is all set to enter into global civilian aircraft market. The aviation major will join America's Boeing Corporation and Russia's Sukhoi Design Bureau in building Regional Jet Transport Aircraft for civilian market. Speaking to reporters here on Thursday, HAL Chairman N R Mohanty said the Russian Government, which has committed to buy 60 aircraft would be the first customer of the regional jets. The consortium will produce 60, 75 and 95 seater aircraft and the first aircraft is expected to take off by 2007-08, he said. It is a good opportunity for the HAL to go global and it will also increase its infrastructure and image globally, he noted. HAL would provide parts of engines and aircraft structure for the venture and profits, in any, would be shared between companies based on the amount of investment they make, he said. The HAL is holding talks with French firm Snecma Aerospace to set up a production unit in Bangalore for civil aircraft engine components. Investment plans and other parameters for the joint venture firm will be finalised in July, he said. HAL was also in talks with Eurocopter to build structural parts and sub- assemblies for helicopters and with Elbit of Israel for avionics. The HAL chief said, they will take up commercial production of indigenously built civilian aircraft Saras. City-based National Aerospace Laboratory (NAL) has designed and developed the aircraft. HAL will involve private firms in building the aircraft for the civilian market. The Indian Air Force (IAF) has shown keen interest in the 16-seater aircraft, which has completed its second flight recently. Earlier he took part in the inauguration of three day annual exposition on Supply Chain and Logistics Management organised by Indian Institute of Materials Management. INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT HAL Chief N.R.Mohanty on Thursday welcomed the Union Cabinet's decision to clear the Bangalore International Airport at Devanhalli. ``It is the need of the hour,'' he said. He, however, refused to comment on Defence Ministry putting pre-conditions for closure of it's HAL airport.
'Girlfriend' spurred for missing ‘A’ hood
Friday, June 18, 2004
BANGALORE: Even as the movie 'Girlfriend' is creating a furore, the film’s screening was stopped at a theatre for an entirely different reason. The demand for a ban on the movie in other parts of the country by Hindu outfits and the Shiv Sena had taken a backseat when the Central Board of Film Certification stopped a screening of the movie because it was not being shown with an ‘A’ certificate. A team of the Board officials raided Navarang theatre in Rajajinagar on Thursday after it was found that the theatre had not shown the ‘A’ certificate issued to the film in its posters and banners. After filing an FIR against the theatre management with the Rajajinagar police station, the Board officials took police assistance for the raid, which was conducted after 11.30 when the morning show was about to conclude. The banners, posters and print of the movie were seized as the screening was stopped in the middle. Police said there was no protest from the audience who was watching the morning show. Screening an Adults Only movie without the ‘A’ certificate misleads the public and also allows minors to watch the movie. The police have registered a case against the theatre management under section 7(a) of the Cinematography Act, 1952. The owner and manager of the theatre, who were not present during the raid, would be arrested soon.
Cauvery row: Team submits report
Friday, June 18, 2004
NEW DELHI: The three-member team which was sent to Karnataka and Tamil Nadu to assess the water-level situation in the reservoirs of the two states submitted its report to the Union Water Resources V K Duggal on Thursday. Talking to this website’s newspaper, Duggal stated that the report which was submitted to him on Thursday would be forwarded to the Prime Minister later in the evening. According to Duggal, a detailed report would be sent to the Prime Minister later tonight. Besides giving the study report in the two states, it will also give a backgrounder on the whole Cauvery crisis and the stand taken by the two states in the past. The water level situation in the reservoirs of the two states and the study conducted by the team would be the part of the report. When asked whether the Prime Minister will take the necessary action by Friday itself, the Water Resources Secretary V K Duggal said, "It is for the Prime Minister to take the appropriate action." The team will just be giving its report and suggesting various options on how to resolve the issue between the two states. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh will obviously study the entire matter and after analysing the whole situation would take the appropriate action.
Release water to Tamil Nadu, Manmohan tells Dharam
Friday, June 18, 2004
NEW DELHI/BANGALORE, DHNS: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, after a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs (CCPA) on Thursday, asked Chief Minister Dharam Singh to release Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu. Mr Dharam Singh informed the prime minister that some quantity of water has already been going to the Mettur dam since Thursday morning from the Kabini reservoir because of the heavy rains in the catchment area. When the prime minister of the country makes a request, how can I say no? the chief minister told reporters in Bangalore on Thursday. He also said that the prime minister’s direction would have to be followed. Chief Minister Dharam Singh, it is understood, told the prime minister that 12,000 to 15,000 cusecs of water had already been released due to heavy rains in the catchment area. The prime minister, it is also learnt, had spoken to Deputy Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on the issue. Mr Siddaramaiah told mediapersons: The prime minister has directed us to release water. I told him that it would be considered after assessing the situation. To a specific query whether water would be released as per the direction, he just said: We can release water only if we have sufficient quantum. Prime Minister Singh is said to have explained to Chief Minister Singh that Tamil Nadu needs water for its kuruvai crop. He however, did not mention to the chief minister the quantity of water to be released to the Mettur dam. The CCPA meeting, which deliberated only on the Cauvery issue, urged the prime minister to request the chief minister to release water. The meeting was attended by CCPA member-ministers besides P Chidambaram and Dayanadhi Maran. Minister of State for Statistics Oscar Fernandes of Karnataka was a special invitee to the meeting. Mr Pranab Mukherjee told reporters after the meeting that the CCPA was briefed about the issue and that the panel asked the prime minister to speak to the Karnataka chief minister about release of water. During the 30-minute meeting, Mr Chidambaram and Mr Maran said Karnataka had not ensured the required water at the Mettur reservoir as per the interim order of the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal at the end of the second week of June. Karnataka should be requested to release water over and above the stipulated quantity and Tamil Nadu will ensure that the same would be compensated later. Mr Fernandes, giving Karnataka’s version, explained the reservoir position. There was no need for Tamil Nadu to feel threatened as it was raining well in both the states, he said.
Kanakambari
Wednesday, June 16, 2004
IANS BANGALORE: "Kanakambari" will be the first digital film to be made in Kannada. It will also be a rare horror film shot in the deep interiors of Hassan district in Karnataka. Little wonder that the entire Kannada film industry is waiting with bated breath to see how it fares at the box office. Though shooting went on for just a month, post-production work took considerably longer. Producer Shylendra Babu, who made the highly successful "Kutumba" last year, said he was happy about the finished project though he was not pleased about the post-production delay. He said the graphics and the sound work would offer new possibilities in this genre of filmmaking. Director Dinesh Babu, who hardly knows any Kannada despite working in the industry here for over 15 years, said three high-definition cameras were used. Anu Prabhakar, who plays the leading role in the film, said it was her first horror film. "There were no camera sounds and many a time I was surprised to know that the shot had already been taken. I had to turn my face several times during shooting and did not know the reason for the director's instructions. But after seeing the graphics, I understand how the story is narrated," she said. Om Prakash Rao, who stars as a police officer in the film, said he was very happy to have worked in a film directed by Dinesh Babu for whom he has a lot of respect.
Karnataka rules out release of water to Tamil Nadu
Tuesday, June 15, 2004
Karnataka rules out release of water to Tamil Nadu Bangalore, June 15. : After an all-party meeting, Karnataka on Monday ruled out release of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu which sought to keep up pressure by proposing to send an official delegation here on June 16. "We have no water. We will not release water," Chief Minister N Dharam Singh told reporters after a nearly three-hour-long meeting which resolved that the interest of Karnataka farmers would be fully protected. The meeting, called by Singh, was of the unanimous opinion that it was "too premature" to take any final decision in the matter as there was no distress situation with sufficient water having flown to Tamil Nadu. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had not asked the state to release Cauvery water, said Singh, who earlier in the day in the assembly ruled out release and asserted that the need for yielding to the Centre's "pressure" on the issue did not arise. Maintaining that he would not compromise on the interests of the state and its farmers, Singh told the House, "(the question of) releasing even a drop of water is not there (before us)". Singh said his Tamil Nadu counterpart Jayalalithaa had faxed him a letter informing him of the visit of an official delegation on June 16. Singh said the meeting discussed the "factual position" in the Cauvery basin today and took note of the memorandum submitted by Tamil Nadu all-party delegation to Prime Minister. "The advice tendered by the Prime Minister in this regard was also discussed and taken due note of," he said. According to him, discussions centered on distress formula, national water policy, review by Cauvery Monitoring Cell and the need for calling a meeting of CRA. Former Chief Ministers S R Bommai and M Veerappa Moily, BJP leaders H N Ananth Kumar, B S Yediyurappa, Jagadish Shettar and farmers' leaders Made Gowda and K S Puttanniah were among those who attended the meeting.
JD(U) urges PM to work for mutual settlement of Cauvery issue
Sunday, June 13, 2004
Bangalore, Jun 12 (UNI) Former Karnataka Irrigation Minister and senior Janata Dal leader H N Nanje Gowda today urged Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to explore the possibility of getting the ''express willingness'' of both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu for an agreed settlement over the vexed Cauvery river water issue. In a letter to Dr Singh, he said the atmosphere was now congenial at the Centre to achieve a negotiated settlement on the issue. If both the parties agreed, the Centre could file a memorandum before the Supreme Court incorporating the ''express willingness'' of the parties for an agreed settlement. The apex court might be requested to issue a direction to grant sufficient and reasonable time for arriving at a settlement among the concerned parties, he suggested in the letter, copies of which were released to the Press here. Replying to queries, Mr Gowda said the state had already released more water than suggested by the Tribunal for June and alleged that it was only Tamil Nadu which was engaged in politicking over the issue. The state had ''never accepted'' the findings of the Central Water Commission in this regard as it always felt the report was one-sided, favouring Tamil Nadu, he added. He took exception to Union Ministers who formed part of a delegation which called on the Prime Minister on the issue recently to seek release of water and questioned their propriety in doing so as it had created misapprehensions in the minds of the people in Karnataka that Tamil Nadu was trying to exert ''undue influence'' on the Prime Minister to get a decision in their favour. Mr Gowda urged Dr Singh to view the issue in a proper perspective and ensure that the rights of the upper riparian states were permanently protected against political compulsions. He also appealed to Karnataka Chief Minister N Dharam Singh to convene an all-party meeting immediately to discuss the issue by taking the leaders of various political parties into confidence. Unfortunately, the erstwhile Krishna Government had not consulted the Opposition on the issue, he regretted.
Siddaramaiah rules out release of Cauvery water to TN
Sunday, June 13, 2004
Mandya, June 12 (UNI) Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister Siddaramaiah today ruled out release of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu. ''The question (of releasing water to Tamil Nadu) does not arise at all,'' he told newspersons here stating that the water level in the Cauvery basin in the State was precarious due to failure of monsoons in the last three years. Mr Siddaramaiah expressed confidence that the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal would do justice to the state. A seven-member delegation of the Democratic Progressive Alliance in Tamil Nadu, led by DMK leader M Durai Murugan, visited Karnataka on June ten asking for release of water immediately. On june eight a delegation of MPs, including 12 Union Ministers, met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at Delhi seeking his intervention in the issue. Following the meeting, a three-member Central team visited the reservoir areas in both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu for a spot ssessment of the situation. To a question, he said the Ministry would be expanded after the present Assembly session ended.
Canara Bank EGM cancelled
Sunday, June 13, 2004
Bangalore, June 12 (UNI) Canara Bank today announced cancellation of Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) convened for June 21-2004 following unopposed election of four Directors from the shareholders. ''Consequent upon the IPO, the shareholders, other than the Central Government holds 26.83 per cent of the existing paid up share capital of the Bank. As such the bank was required to elect four Directors from amongst the shareholders other than the Central Government, in accordance with Section 9(3) (i) of the Banking Companies Acquisition and Transfer of undertakings Act 1970,'' a release said here. However, at the closure of nominations on June five, only four nominations were found valid as against an equal number of vacancies and the four were deemed to be elected as Bank Directors. Hence, the EGM convened exclusively for the purpose of election of Directors was cancelled, it added.
Economic reforms: New Govt promises continuity
Sunday, June 13, 2004
Bangalore, June 12 (UNI) A senior Minister in the new Karnataka Government today assured captains of industry that the economic reforms process would not be a victim of coalition politics. ''Some hurdles will be there, but I assure you that the reforms taken up under the the previous Government of Mr S M Krishna will continue,'' Water Resources and Transport Minister Mallikarjun Kharge said at an interactive session with the Confederation of Indian Industry here. Also Home Minister in the Krishna Cabinet, Mr kharge was present at the event as a last-minute substitute for Chief Minister N Dharam Singh. ''Two different parties (Janata Dal-Secular and Congress) have come together. Naturally, we will have to go a bit slow, but with your co-operation we will overcome any difficulties,'' he said. On the question of power subsidies for the agriculture sector, he admitted that the levy of user charges had resulted in loss of rural votes for the Congress. ''During the elections we experienced dissent. We will do whatever is possible on the power front,'' he stated. The Government would reconsider the levy of a 50 paise surcharge on captive power units ''for possible relief,'' Mr Kharge said. Regarding labour reforms, he said the Government would take a ''balanced view and safeguard the interests of industry and the working class.'' The ''vision'' of the coalition Government was to achieve industrial growth rate of 10-12 per cent and ensure ''wide dispersal'' of industry, especially in backward areas, he added
Telemedicine at B'lore hospital benefits six in Lahore
Sunday, June 13, 2004
Telemedicine at B'lore hospital benefits six in Lahore Bangalore, June 12 (UNI) As many as six patients in Lahore, including a five-year-old girl, could be treated thanks to the telemedicine facility at the city-based Narayana Hrudayalay Hospital. The hospital has emerged a household name in Pakistan for treating children with heart ailments and the satellite link with a Lahore-based hospital was established yesterday. The two-and-half-year-old telemedicine facility had been attracting patients from neighbouring countries. It rose to fame with the treatment of Noor Fathima, who was on the first bus to Delhi after the thaw in Indo-Pak relations last year. The only nodal centre for telemedicine in Karnataka, the hospital is already linked up with 22 centres across the country, besides a centre each in Malaysia, Germany, Mauritius and Nepal hospital sources told UNI. Besides satellite link provided by the Indian Space Research Organisation, the hospital also has ISDN connections. It has so far treated over 12,000 out-patients besides 3,000 inpatients through the telemedicine facility, which included 600 with acute heart problems.
Rice scam: JD(U) demands S M Krishna's arrest
Sunday, June 13, 2004
Rice scam: JD(U) demands S M Krishna's arrest Bangalore, Jun 12 (UNI) The Janata Dal (United) today demanded the arrest of former Karnataka Chief Minister S M Krishna and the resignation of Water Resources Minister Mallikarjun Kharge from the Dharam Singh ministry in connection with the multi-crore rice scandal. JD(U) city President G Chandra Kumar said the multicrore scam had numerous ramifications and primary investigations revealed involvement of both political leaders and bureaucrats. The whole incident should be referred to the Central Bureau of Investigation and Mr Krishna, who was the Chief Minister when the scandal took place, should be brought to book immediately, he demanded, while speaking to reporters here. Mr Kumar also urged that Mr Kharge, who headed the Drought Relief Committee of the Cabinet, must resign on moral grounds. Party President B Somasekhar would participate in a dharna to protest against the issue on June 14, he added.
Boys top CET this time
Friday, June 11, 2004
BANGALORE: A Kannada medium student from Bijapur Sharanappa Channappa Ijeri has topped the CET 2004 engineering results by securing 97.29%, while Bharat Holla from Hassan has secured the first rank in medical results with 95.01 per cent. In the non-Karnataka category, Abhishek Bhothra from Rajasthan topped the engineering test with 80.97 per cent, while Arpit Rao from Madhya Pradesh has secured the first rank in medical exams.
'Munnabhai' in Kannada too
Friday, June 11, 2004
"Munnabhai M.B.B.S." will soon have a Kannada version as well. Starring Upendra in the lead, the film is be directed by D. Rajendra Babu. With Jaggesh in the role played in Hindi by Arshad Warsi, the Kannada version has certainly become an interesting project. Upendra will also be writing the dialogues and lyrics of the film. Indo-Asian News Service
Mohan Lal
Wednesday, June 9, 2004
Bangalore, June 8 (IANS) : Popular Malayalam actor-producer Mohan Lal entered the film industry 26 years ago with a nondescript role in "Thiranottam". Since then he has acted in over 260 films. But the National Award-winning Mohan Lal told IANS in an interview he does not believe in preparing for his roles. "You may not believe this, but the fact is that I don't prepare for a role or do any homework," he said. Mohan Lal has done a variety of roles in films of different languages, including the Bollywood movie "Company". His memorable films include "Vanaprastham", "Bharatham", "Manichithra Thaazhu", "Chithram", "Narasimham" and "Kireetam". Mohan Lal was in Bangalore to finish dubbing for his first Kannada film "Love", directed by S.V. Rajendra Singh Babu, when he spoke with IANS. Excerpts: Q: "Love" is your first Kannada film. Did you find it difficult? A: I play the role of a Malayali taxi driver in Dubai. Therefore, some minor aberrations in my Kannada language might even look authentic. People in the recording studio and director S.V. Rajendra Singh Babu told me that my accent was similar to the Kannada spoken by a majority of Malayalis now in Karnataka. I had not prepared for this dubbing, but just went on with my job. The experience of working with the unit of "Love" was excellent. I enjoyed working for this film. I had not planned to work in a Kannada film, but the offer just came my way. It just happened. I was not able to reject the offer as the role was good and the story great. I am a driver who works to unite the lovers in the film. Director Babu's son Audithya, who is being launched in the film, and heroine Rakshitha will certainly go far after the film's release. Q: You had earlier acted in Tamil and Telugu films. How is it that you had not worked in a Kannada film so far despite your closeness to many people in Karnataka? A: I have close friendship with Kannada stars like Vishnuvardhan and Ambarish. In fact, Vishnu has acted in the remake of my huge hit "Chithram". Now I am told he is doing the same role that I did in award winning film "Manichithra Thaazhu", now being remade in Kannada. I have acted in many Malayalam films with actress Bharathi Vishnuvardhan. I am a firm believer in destiny. Maybe I was destined to work in a Kannada film after I had worked in films in other southern Indian languages. Q: How do you prepare for a role? A: You may not believe this, but the fact is that I don't prepare for a role or do any homework. I believe in getting to work and doing the day's job, all of which is just spontaneous. I worked with some great directors like Fazil, Bharathan, Priyadarshan, Mani Ratnam, Ram Gopal Varma, Sibi Malayil, Siddiqui Lal, Shaji Kailas and I.V. Sasi and the destiny was on my side. How some of these great directors had faith in my ability is something still not known to me! Q: Your recent film "Vismayathumbaththu", directed by Fazil, carried good reports before its release. But trade reports say it was below expectations. How did you feel working in this film? A: "Vismayathumbaththu" is a complex film like "Manichithra Thaazhu", which ran for nearly one year in Kerala. The title of the film is as innovative and catchy as any other Fazil film. The film has a gripping story about human mind and spirits. Only a director like Fazil can summon the courage to direct films on such rare subjects. I think the technical work is the highlight of this film. I produced the film and can authoritatively say the film was liked by a large number of viewers.
Demolition of temple compound sparks protest
Tuesday, June 8, 2004
BANGALORE, JUNE 6. Residents of the Jayanagar 5th Block on Sunday protested against the demolition of a portion of the compound wall of Annapoorneshwari Temple by the Bangalore Mahanagara Palike (BMP) officials. The protestors alleged that the BMP officials pulled down the compound wall on Saturday night without giving information to the temple authorities. The protestors sat in front of the temple from 10.30 a.m. After an hour, the former Minister and MLA from Jayanagar, Ramalinga Reddy, visited the spot. The protestors dispersed only after being assured by Mr. Reddy to take up the matter with the BMP authorities. The BMP sources said the demolished portion of the compound wall had come up in the playground adjoining the temple, which belonged to the BMP. The temple authorities had illegally constructed the compound wall, the source said.
Demolition of temple compound sparks protest
Tuesday, June 8, 2004
BANGALORE, JUNE 6. Residents of the Jayanagar 5th Block on Sunday protested against the demolition of a portion of the compound wall of Annapoorneshwari Temple by the Bangalore Mahanagara Palike (BMP) officials. The protestors alleged that the BMP officials pulled down the compound wall on Saturday night without giving information to the temple authorities. The protestors sat in front of the temple from 10.30 a.m. After an hour, the former Minister and MLA from Jayanagar, Ramalinga Reddy, visited the spot. The protestors dispersed only after being assured by Mr. Reddy to take up the matter with the BMP authorities. The BMP sources said the demolished portion of the compound wall had come up in the playground adjoining the temple, which belonged to the BMP. The temple authorities had illegally constructed the compound wall, the source said.
Gold jewellery, cash stolen in train
Tuesday, June 8, 2004
Gold jewellery worth Rs. 1 lakh and Rs. 6,000 in cash was stolen from a woman passenger on .Hampi Express, going from Bangalore to Bellary, at the City Railway Station on Sunday night, the police said. The passenger, Sumitra Mallikarjun, was travelling with her five-year-old child when her purse kept near the window, was stolen. The crime was committed when Ms. Mallikarjun was attending to her child. The police said the thief had climbed up a service water pipe along the railway track in the station and stole the purse as the train began to pull out of the station, just before 11 p.m. A few of her fellow passengers of Ms. Mallikarjun, who noticed the purse being stolen, pulled the emergency chain in the coach, but to no avail. The culprit had escaped. The City Railway Station police have registered a case.
Three injured in bus-lorry collision
Tuesday, June 8, 2004
BANGALORE, JUNE 6. Three persons travelling in a BMTC bus were injured when the bus was hit by a lorry carrying cement concrete mixer to a hotel on Cunningham Road on Monday. The police gave the names of the victims as Vasanta (40), Sirajunnissa (50), and Anita (4). While Vasanta was hurt on her back, Sirajunnissa fractured her right leg, and Anita suffered minor injuries. Two of the victims were admitted to Bowring Hospital and one was taken to Hosmat Hospital, the police said. All the victims were reported to be out of danger.
42 hospitalised with gastroenteritis in Bidar
Tuesday, June 8, 2004
BIDAR, JUNE 6. Forty-two persons were hospitalised with gastroenteritis in Chitaguppa town in Humnabad taluk in the last week. Unofficial estimates, however, put the figure of those hospitalised at 70. An equal number have been treated as outpatients. Residents told The Hindu that the drinking water supplied by the town municipal council had led to the problem. Doctors at the government hospital denied rumours that the disease was cholera. It was a case of "water infection," which could be treated easily, a senior doctor said. The situation is under control, he said. Heads of two private hospitals in the village, which have admitted at least seven persons, said that the patients were out of danger. Rajkumar, a resident of the village, said that the drinking water received in taps was greenish last week and had a tinge of red in the last two days. H.B.S. Rajan, a private doctor, alleged that the TMC had not heeded his advice of treating the water with bleaching powder to disinfect it. "I have been telling them about this for one year," he said. Shantappa Katagihal, who was attending on a relative in a hospital, said that most of the patients were from areas such as Bhaskar Nagar and Markhandeya Nagar as a pipe supplying water to these areas had broken, allowing sewage to mix with drinking water. The Deputy Commissioner, T.K. Anil Kumar, said that the situation was under control and that no cases were reported in the last two days. "There was some problem with the water supply in the last few days, but it has been sorted out. We have all taken measures to supply clean water," he said.
Science Awareness Year
Tuesday, June 8, 2004
BIDAR, JUNE 6. The Bidar District Science Education Society will organise lectures, exhibitions and competitions round the year as part of the Science Awareness Year-2004 celebrations. According to a press release, the celebrations will focus on topics such as water and hygiene, health and nutrition, ecology and wildlife protection, natural calamities, efficient management of soil and empowerment of the common man by information technology. The campaign has been influenced by the success of earlier programmes such as the Jana Vigyan Jatha of 1982 and Jyan Vigyan Jatha of 1990-1992. The campaign, being conducted across the country by the National Council for Science and Technology Communication, is implemented by the Karnataka Rajya Vigyan Parishat.
Lightning claims two lives
Tuesday, June 8, 2004
HASSAN, JUNE 6. Two women were killed on the spot and two others were injured when lightning struck them in Beechenahalli village of Holenarsipur taluk on Saturday. Police said that Yashoda (28) and Soumya (10) were working in the fields when lightning struck them. Shashikala and Nanjamani have been admitted to a Holenarsipur hospital with injuries.
`Satvik veena' concert on June 14
Tuesday, June 8, 2004
MYSORE, JUNE 6. Mysoreans are in for a cultural extravaganza featuring a new instrument the "Satvik veena". The instrument was invented by Salil V. Bhatt, a promising young artiste. Organised by Raag Milan, the concert will be held at Jaganmohan Palace on June 14 and will feature Salil Bhat, the son of the "Mohana veena" player and Grammy Award winner Pandit Vishwamohan Bhatt. Speaking to The Hindu from Jaipur, Mr. Bhatt said that Mysore was the first city in South India to witness a concert using the "Satvik veena". The "Satvik veena" was made from a 100-year-old piece of oak wood while the top portion was made of pinewood to allow sound to filter through. Mr. Bhatt pointed out that rosewood fret board and two F-shaped sound holes, lend a tone that was rarely heard in existing musical instruments. Describing the unique features of the "Satvik veena", Mr. Bhatt said the instrument had 19 strings three for main melody, five drone strings and 12 sympathetic strings. Specially created wooden tuner keys were mounted on the extended piece of the fret board and placed on concealed tuning machines. The upright position of the keys on the head also broke the traditional practice of placing keys horizontally. The head of the new veena was shaped as a crescent that rose above the plane of the body. According to Mr. Bhatt, it took him years of research to create the new instrument. He feels that the melody emanating from it is unmatched in tenor and quality and meets the requirements of depth, richness and continuity that is essential to classical music. Mr. Bhatt has received many accolades for his "Baaz" style, which assimilates the "Gayaki" and "Tantrakari" styles of music. The new instrument is considered to be the perfect addendum to his style. Mr. Bhatt, who represents the 10th generation of the famous Bhatt lineage, has also mastered the "Mohana veena" and is its youngest exponent. He has performed in India and abroad and is a regular performer for All India Radio. His albums, "Revival of Gavti", "In harmony" and "Swar Shikar" were runaway hits. The cultural extravaganza will also feature a dance recital by Aarthi Shankar, disciple of Saroja Vaidyanathan, founder President of Ganesha Natyalaya, New Delhi. Ms. Shankar has been conferred titles such as the Natyashree and Mahakal Sangeeth Ratna. She has performed at major cultural festivals in India including those at Ujjain, Thanjavur, Chennai, Lucknow, Allahabad, Delhi and at the Pallavothsava in Mysore.
Mangalore police crack down on video parlours
Tuesday, June 8, 2004
MANGALORE, JUNE 6. The Mangalore police have started cracking down on theatres screening new films using pirated CDs and pornographic films. A series of raids were conducted on video parlours in the city in the past three days by a team of police officials. Three persons were arrested in a raid on a theatre where a pornographic film was reportedly being screened. The same day, another raid was conducted on a bar and restaurant at Hampankatta. Acting on definite information that a live band was playing at the bar, the police raided it and arrested three persons in this connection. A mini-theatre reportedly screening a recently released Hindi movie was also raided by the police. Three persons were arrested and a projector, two VCD players, stickers, ticket book, and other material valued at Rs. 5 lakh were confiscated by the police.
Twin successes at Mysore Zoo
Tuesday, June 8, 2004
MYSORE, JUNE 6. The Mysore Zoo has added another feather in its cap by registering successful breeding of lions in captivity. A pair of adult lions "Narasimha" and "Manini" was brought to the Mysore Zoo from the Nandankan Zoological Park in Bhubaneshwar under the Zoo exchange programme, for captive breeding. The lioness recently gave birth to three cubs one male and two female. The Executive Director of Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens said in a release that the lioness was displaying normal maternal care patterns and the cubs were in good health. The zoo authorities now plan to release the mother and her cubs into the enclosure for public viewing. The White Bengal Tiger, Rajan, which had injured its spinal cord, was recently operated on by neuro-surgeons. The surgery is said to be the first of its kind in the country.
Rains bring relief to drought-hit areas
Tuesday, June 8, 2004
CHAMARAJANAGAR, JUNE 6. Heavy pre-monsoon showers have given farmers of the district a new <149>ray of hope. The district had faced severe drought conditions for the past four years. Agricultural activity has gathered momentum and sowing for the kharif crop has begun after the pre-monsoon showers intensified in the past fortnight. The Agriculture Department as set a target of cultivating 1.31 lakh hectares of land. Nearly 70 per cent of sowing has been taken up <149>in the district. Sunflower, jowar, red gram, black gram, groundnut, and castor areamong the crops being cultivated <149>under dry-land cultivation. After four years of <149>consecutive <149>dra<149>ught, the farmers did not take up jowar <149>cultivation<149>. However, heavy rains<149> have <149>prompted the sowing of rain-fed and hybrid varieties of jowar seeds <149>in more than 13, 374 hectares in Chamarajanagar and Gundle<149>pet taluks. The rain-fed jowar crop also helps<149> ease the fodder problem <149>in the district. The rainfall in the different taluks in May has been listed below<149>: Chamarajanagar taluk received 126.4 mm of rain (as against a <149>normal rainfall of 53.4 mm for the month), Gundle<149>pet <149>182.4 (normal <149>67.2 mm), Kollegal <149>118.8 mm, and Yelandur <149>140 mm. The rain also eased the worries of the district administration over providing drinking water as most of the defunct bore <149>wells we<149>re getting recharged. The water level in Suvarnavathy reservoir wa<149>s 2, <149>428 fee<149>t against a <149>maximum of 2, <149>455 fee<149>t. Likewise, water levels<149> in the Chikkahole reservoir crossed 2416 fee<149>t. The total area irrigated by the channels <149>from Suvarnavathy reservoir is 16694 acres. The Chikkahole reservoir irrigates 406 acres through the left bank and Bandigere canal.
Free heart check-up camp held in Hospet
Tuesday, June 8, 2004
HOSPET, JUNE 6. About 350 persons in and around Hospet underwent check-up at the free heart check-up camp organised here today. It was organised jointly by the Vasanti Devi Baldota Blood Bank, Vijayanand Heart Centre, Bellary, and Bhagawan Mahaveer Jain Heart Centre, Bangalore. People who had registered their names were screened on the previous day and only those who had to undergo further tests were examined today by specialists from Mahaveer Jain Heart Centre, Bangalore. An additional feature of the camp was the lecture sessions by Usha Shinde, Customer Relation Manager, Mahaveer Heart Centre, and tips on food habits to prevent avoid blood pressure, diabetes and other diseases by Farad. They interacted with several groups consisting of 20 to 25 people. R.S. Venkateshulu and Keshav, on behalf of Mahaveer Heart Centre, said that the centre would extend 40 per cent concession on all surgeries and treatment given to the people attending the camp. Ten doctors from Mahaveer Heart Centre conducted the camp. Students from the local nursing school and other self-help groups participated as volunteers. Free medicines (about a month's course) were supplied to the patients at the camp. Abheraj Baldota, chairman and managing director of MSPL; Anandappa Shetty, A. Gurumurthy, and Rami Reddy of Vijayanand Heart Centre were present on the occasion.
Man electrocuted
Tuesday, June 8, 2004
RAICHUR, JUNE 6. Ismail (30), son of Sheikbuddin, resident of Lingsugur town, died of electrocution while he was collecting water from a tap in his house on Saturday. Police said that the incident took place when Ismail connected an electric motor to a tap to draw water. The Lingsugur police have registered a case. Woman ends life Amaramma (22), wife of Chandrashekar, resident of Jangamarahalli in Manvi taluk, reportedly committed suicide by immolating herself on Friday. Police said that the deceased was suffering from some stomach ailment for a long time and decided to end her life. The Kavital police registered a case. Commit suicide Pedumanna (60), resident of Herundi village in Deodurga taluk, reportedly committed suicide by hanging himself in his house on Friday. The Deodurga police have registered a case. In another incicdent, Parasappa (30), son of Phakeerappa, resident of Kylawadgi in Gadag district, reportedly committed suicide by hanging himself in a room of Amareshawara Kshetra in Lingsugur taluk on Friday. Police said that Phakeerappa, who was reportedly suffering from a severe ailment for a long period, reached the temple on Thursday to offer prayers. He was found dead in a room of the temple the next day. The Lingsugur police have registered a case. Man killed Hanumantha (40), son of Ramaiah, resident of Mittimalkapur village near here, died on the spot when he slipped while trying to lift a bullock cart in an inebriated condition on Friday. The Yergera police have registered a case. Woman drowns Sangamma, wife of Amarayya Kalmatha, resident of Hulageri in Kustagi taluk of Koppal district, was reported drowned in a pond near Amareshwara Kshetra in Lingsugur taluk on Saturday. Police said that she fell into the pond in a fright on seeing a snake. The Lingsugur Police have registered a case.
Rainfall over Kerala, Lakshadweep and Karnataka coast
Tuesday, June 8, 2004
Chennai, June 7: The Regional Meteorological Centre today said rainfall occurred at most places over Kerala, Lakshadweep and coastal Karnataka. Isolated rainfall occurred over Tamilnadu, Interior Karnataka and Coastal Andhra Pradesh. Mainly dry weather prevailed over Telangana and dry weather prevailed over Rayalaseema. Mangalore and Mulki (Dakshina Kannada dt.) recorded a heavy rainfall of 9 and 7 cms respectively. The other chief amounts of rainfall recorded as of 8.30 a.m. on Monday in cm were : Panambur 6, Salem, Hosdurg (Kasargod dt.) and Shirali 5 each, Mani and Puttur (both Dakshina Kannada dt.), Mangalore Airport, Gokarna (Uttara Kannada dt.) and Chodavaram (Visakhapatnam dt.) 4 each, Punalur, Vadakara (Kozhikode dt.), Kunnamkulam and Chalakudi (both Thrissur dt.), Tiruvalla (Pathanamthitta dt.), Honavar and Jayapura (Chickmagalur dt.) 3 each, Periyar (Theni dt.), Omalur (Salem dt.), Agathy, Cannur, Thalasserry (Cannur dt.), Aryankavu (Kollam dt.), Varkala and Nedumangad (both Thruvananthapuram dt.), Karkala (Udipi dt.) and Mandya 2 each and Coonoor, Eraniel (Kanyakumari dt.), Kochi Airport, CIAL Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Thiruvananthapuram Airport, Quilandy (Kozhikode dt.), Pattambi (Palakkad dt.), Alapuzha, Cherthala (Alapuzha dt.), Amini Divi, Minicoy, Dharmasthala (Dakshina Kannada dt.) and Paderu (Visakhapatnam dt.) 1 each. On Sunday, the maximum temperature fell largely to markedly at one or two places over Telangana, fell appreciably at one or two places over South coastal AndhraPradesh, Rayalaseema, coastal Karnataka, fell at one or two places over rest Rayalaseema, rose appreciably at one or two places over North coastal AndhraPradesh, rose at one or two places over Kerala, rest North Interior Karnataka and changed a little elsewhere over the region.They were appreciably below normal at a few places over Telangana, at one or two places over coastal Karnataka, below normal at a few places over North Tamilnadu, Rayalaseema, at one or two places over North coastal AndhraPradesh, appreciably above normal at one or two places over rest North coastal AndhraPradesh, above normal at one or two places over South Tamilnadu and were generally normal over rest of the region. A number of stations recorded the highest maximum temperature of 40 degree Celsius in the region. The Meteorological Centre has forecast the following weather until the morning of June 9: Rain or thundershowers are likely to occur at most places over Kerala, Lakshadweep and Coastal Karnataka and at a few places over Interior Karnataka, coastal AndhraPradesh and Telangana. Isolated rain or thundershowers are likely to occur over Tamilnadu, Pondicherry and Rayalaseema. Warning for isolated heavy rainfall has been issued for Kerala, and Coastal Karnataka during the next 48 hours.
Love
Tuesday, June 8, 2004
Bangalore, June 7 (IANS) : Director S.V. Rajendra Singh Babu is launching son Audithya in the Kannada film "Love". Scheduled for a Thursday release, it is also being produced in Telugu as "Prem Nagar" with the same stars and technical crew. The multimillion-extravaganza has been shot extensively in Dubai and Varanasi besides in the Ramoji Rao studios. The film has Bollywood's well-known villain Amrish Puri and Malayalam star Mohan Lal in important roles. Mohan Lal plays the role of a Malayali taxi driver in Dubai and Amrish the villainous father of the heroine. Rakshitha oozes glamour as the heroine in both versions of the film. The Telugu version has Kota Sreenivasa Rao and comedian Sunil in important roles. According to Rajendra Singh Babu, the film is a love story with a difference. He says Anu Malik has "given his best for the film", and adds that "Love" and "Prem Nagar" will open "the gateway for more film offers in the south for Bollywood's busiest music director". Audithya had his initial training in Namith Kapoor's acting institute in Mumbai, besides special lessons in fights and dances. He had assisted in the production of his father's earlier directorial ventures like "Kruigalu Saar Kurigalu" and "Kothigalu Saar Kothigalu". For Rakshitha, who had some bad releases in Telugu, the film may well prove to be a turning point in her career.
10 new ministers inducted in Karnataka cabinet
Sunday, June 6, 2004
Bangalore, June 5 (IANS) : Ten ministers were inducted in the Congress-led coalition government in Karnataka Saturday. While nine of them were of cabinet rank, one was inducted as minister of state. Governor T.N. Chaturvedi administered the oath of office and secrecy to the new ministers at the Vidhana Soudha that houses the secretariat and the state legislature. All the ministers took the oath in Kannada, the native language of the state. Now there will be a total of 12 ministers in the cabinet, including Chief Minister N. Dharam Singh and Deputy Chief Minister S. Siddaramiah In keeping with the agreement between coalition partners Congress and the Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S), five ministers from each party were sworn in. Representing the Congress were former home minister Mallikarjun Kharge, Prakash Hukkeri, S.R. More, Srinivas Gowda and Tanvir Sait. The JD-S nominees are P.G.R. Scindia, M.P. Prakash, D. Manjunath, H.D. Revanna and Mirajuddin Patel in the cabinet. The chief minister later told reporters that portfolios of the ministers would be announced "soon". "We will let you know soon. You will get to know from the Raj Bhavan (Governor's House) when the portfolios are finalised and released officially," he said.
Karnataka posts 46 percent IT exports growth in 2003-04
Friday, June 4, 2004
Karnataka has posted a record 46 percent growth in IT exports in fiscal 2003-04 over the previous year, notwithstanding pressure on billing rates and rupee appreciation, said a government agency Tuesday. For the fiscal 2003-04, foreign and Indian IT firms registered with the state-owned Software Technology Park of India (STPI) earned a whopping Rs.180.10 billion ($4 billion) in exports against Rs.124 billion in the previous year. The state's contribution to the national STPI exports has also shot up to 36 percent from 30 percent a year ago. "As part of the strategy to sustain global competitiveness, global corporates have been looking at India, particularly Bangalore, as a top outsourcing and off-shoring destination," B.V. Naidu, director of STPI Bangalore, told reporters here. As the nodal agency for development of the IT sector and promoting software exports, STPI facilitates IT firms by providing data connectivity, consulting and other infrastructure solutions. In Karnataka, the capital Bangalore leads the pack of IT exporting cities with 1,124 Indian and multinational firms earning Rs.179 billion from software services and products in fiscal 2003-04. Exports from Mysore and Managalore registered an increase of 177 percent and 38 percent respectively. Thirty-one firms from Mysore posted Rs.1.8 billion and 18 firms from Mangalore Rs.4.56 billion in export earnings. Software services constitute 90 percent of the total exports, with products accounting for the remaining 10 percent. Firms that are not registered with STPI contribute another 10 percent of exports from the state. In spite of the backlash on outsourcing IT services, the US continues to have the lion's share of software exports, accounting for 64 percent of total exports from Bangalore and Karnataka. Exports to European countries were 24 percent, Japan three percent, West Asia three percent, Asia Pacific two percent and rest of the world two percent. Exports from the IT enabled services or business process outsourcing (ITES/BPO) also grew by a record 126 percent during the last fiscal year, posting a combined revenue of Rs.22.37 billion against Rs.9.88 billion in FY 2003. Employing over 60,000 people, the ITES/BPO sector contributes 13 percent of overall exports from Bangalore. "The IT industry as a whole, employs about 200,000 people in the high-tech capital of India," said state IT principal secretary K.M. Shiv Kumar. On the investment front, Bangalore attracts two foreign equity firms every week currently against three such firms for every fortnight a year ago. In the ITES/BPO segment, investments shot up by 98 percent over the previous year, with 44 new firms bringing in Rs.10.16 billion as against 41 such firms investing Rs.5.12 billion in fiscal 2002-03. [IANS]
Aaptha Mithra
Friday, June 4, 2004
Soundarya's last director remembers her Kannada actor-producer Dwarakish is still moved to tears when he remembers Soundarya, the south Indian actress who died in a tragic air mishap while campaigning for the Bharatiya Janata Party. He has produced the Kannada film "Aaptha Mithra", the last film of the late actress, which is based on the Malayalam hit "Manichithrathaazhu". "Soundarya had completed work for the film. Despite defaults in payment, she did not press for the money and attended the shooting. She liked the role a lot and had immediately agreed to do my project even though there were several tempting offers." "She cooperated with the production despite problems. She did not complain even when shooting schedules were cancelled and rescheduled, focussing more on her role and the film." He added: "I want her fans to see 'Aaptha Mithra' in large numbers and see for themselves the performance of the actress."
Preeti Jhangiani on Kannada screen, at last
Friday, June 4, 2004
It will hopefully be third time lucky for Preeti Jhangiani, who has just completed work for "Onkaara", after two unsuccessful attempts to make it in Kannada cinema. In her first Kannada film "Onkaara", she is paired with Upendra. The film is directed by actor-director Shivamani and has another Bollywood face Shwetha Menon. Preeti was first selected to play the lead in "Ninagyaake" directed by D. Rajendra Babu two years ago. The film had an extravagant muhurat but failed to take off after two days of shooting. Then Preeti's name figured in the film "Panduranga Vittala", starring Crazy Star Ravichandran and directed by D. Rajendra Babu. The producers even sent Preeti an advance amount but it faced several problems, including differences between the producers and the director. Rambha came in place of Preeti after the film was launched again with a new director. Preeti, who has already acted in a Tamil and Telugu film, must have felt that Kannada films were just not for her. But Upendra seems to have insisted on her being included in "Onkaara", which will be ready for release in August.
Ramakrishna
Thursday, June 3, 2004
Disappointing 'Ramakrishna' made for yesteryear audience Film: "Ramakrishna"; Director: Sai Prakash; Producer: Balu Muthayya; Cast: Ravichandran, Jaggesh, Laila, Kalyani (Kaveri), Sadhukokila, Doddanna and Sreenivasa Murthy. Music: S.A. Raj Kumar. "Ramakrishna" had raised great expectations, especially because of the wonderful combination of Ravichandran and Jaggesh who struck gold a few years ago in "Gadibidi Aliya", a silver jubilee hit. Director Sai Prakash, however, has let the audience down by failing to make use of the full potential of a galaxy of stars. The stars include talented heroines like Laila and Kalyani, who has been making waves recently in Telugu films. Kalyani, better known in Kannada film circles as Kaveri, had acted in the Kannada film "Sambhrama" and "Kuhu Kuhu" earlier. "Ramakrishna" is the remake of Tamil film "Aan Paavam", which was directed by Pandya Rajan and released over 15 years ago. The film was fresh and had narrative appeal, but much water has flowed since then. Rather than make some inevitable changes to suit the tastes of the present day audience, Sai Prakash has sadly followed the narrative of an original Tamil film faithfully. The comedy sub-track in the film featuring Sadhu Kokila is just a rehash of several sequences in Tamil comedian Vadivelu's recent films. This proves that the director lacks originality. The story is about two spoilt sons of an authoritative father who wants them to marry the girls chosen by him. In a twist of destiny, the elder of the two, Ravichandran, goes out to see a girl and falls in love with her. But it transpires that the girl was not the one short-listed by his father. Ravichandran continues to love Kalyani. Finally, after much drama, the lovers get united. The presence of superstar Ravichandran does not in any way help the film, as he has not been presented properly. Even his hardcore fans may not like the way the film has shaped up. Jaggesh who has acted as his brother is good as a playful spoilt youth, but fails to come alive in sentimental sequences. Though his antics evoke some laughter, the pedestrian dialogues have limited the impact. Laila, whose talents were fully exploited in films like "Pithamagan", looks completely out of focus. Though Kaveri has a big role in the film, she fails to make any impact. Doddanna and Sreenivasa Murthy are just passable. S.A. Raj Kumar's music is a big letdown, as expectations were high after the music maestro's previous Kannada film "Chandra Chakori". Shoddy editing has also proved to be a big handicap. "Ramakrishna", which has been released just around the time when Ravichandran's previous film "Malla" is completing a hundred day run, is certainly a big disappointment.
