chennai buzz

2009 ipl schedule

2009-04-19T19:21:00.000+05:30

IPL Schedule 2009

IPL Schedule 2009

The DLF Indian Premier League will be played from April 2009 onwards. Below is the IPL schedule for all the IPL matches games in the IPL.

You can get the IPL match timings also below.
Match No. Between Teams Venue Match Date and Time[IST]
1 Mumbai Indians Vs Chennai Super Kings Cape Town April 18 4 p.m
2 Rajasthan Royals Vs Bangalore Royal Challengers Cape Town April 18 8 p.m
3 Delhi Daredevils Vs Kings XI Punjab Cape Town April 19 4 p.m
4 Deccan Chargers Vs Kolkata Knight Riders Cape Town April 19 8 p.m
5 Chennai Super Kings Vs Bangalore Royal Challengers Port Elizabeth April 20 8 p.m
6 Kings XI Punjab Vs Kolkata Knight Riders Durban April 21 4 p.m
7 Rajasthan Royals Vs Mumbai Indians Durban April 21 8 p.m
8 Bangalore Royal Challengers Vs Deccan Chargers Cape Town April 22 8 p.m
9 Chennai Super Kings Vs Delhi Daredevils Durban April 23 4 p.m
10 Kolkata Knight Riders Vs Rajasthan Royals Cape Town April 23 8 p.m
11 Bangalore Royal Challengers Vs Kings XI Punjab Durban April 24 8 p.m
12 Mumbai Indians Vs Deccan Chargers Durban April 25 4 p.m
13 Chennai Super Kings Vs Kolkata Knight Riders Cape Town April 25 8 p.m
14 Bangalore Royal Challengers Vs Delhi Daredevils Port Elizabeth April 26 4 p.m
15 Kings XI Punjab Vs Rajasthan Royals Cape Town April 26 8 p.m
16 Deccan Chargers Vs Chennai Super Kings Durban April 27 4 p.m
17 Kolkata Knight Riders Vs Mumbai Indians Port Elizabeth April 27 8 p.m
18 Delhi Daredevils Vs Rajasthan Royals Pretoria April 28 8 p.m
19 Kolkata Knight Riders Vs Bangalore Royal Challengers Durban April 29 4 p.m
20 Kings XI Punjab Vs Mumbai Indians Durban April 29 8 p.m
21 Deccan Chargers Vs Delhi Daredevils Pretoria April 30 4 p.m
22 Rajasthan Royals Vs Chennai Super Kings Pretoria April 30 8 p.m
23 Mumbai Indians Vs Kolkata Knight Riders East London May 1 4 p.m
24 Kings XI Punjab Vs Bangalore Royal Challengers Durban May 1 8 p.m
25 Deccan Chargers Vs Rajasthan Royals Port Elizabeth May 2 4 p.m
26 Delhi Daredevils Vs Chennai Super Kings Johannesburg May 2 8 p.m
27 Kolkata Knight Riders Vs Kings XI Punjab Port Elizabeth May 3 4 p.m
28 Bangalore Royal Challengers Vs Mumbai Indians Johannesburg May 3 8 p.m
29 Chennai Super Kings Vs Deccan Chargers East London May 4 8 p.m
30 Rajasthan Royals Vs Kings XI Punjab Durban May 5 4 p.m
31 Delhi Daredevils Vs Kolkata Knight Riders Durban May 5 8 p.m
32 Deccan Chargers Vs Mumbai Indians Pretoria May 6 8 p.m
33 Bangalore Royal Challengers Vs Rajasthan Royals Pretoria May 7 4 p.m
34 Kings XI Punjab Vs Chennai Super Kings Pretoria May 7 8 p.m
35 Delhi Daredevils Vs Mumbai Indians East London May 8 8 p.m
36 Deccan Chargers Vs Kings XI Punjab Kimberley May 9 4 p.m
37 Chennai Super Kings Vs Rajasthan Royals Kimberley May 9 8 p.m
38 Mumbai Indians Vs Bangalore Royal Challengers Port Elizabeth May 10 4 p.m
39 Kolkata Knight Riders Vs Delhi Daredevils Johannesburg May 10 8 p.m
40 Rajasthan Royals Vs Deccan Chargers Kimberley May 11 8 p.m
41 Bangalore Royal Challengers Vs Kolkata Knight Riders Pretoria May 12 4 p.m
42 Mumbai Indians Vs Kings XI Punjab Pretoria May 12 8 p.m
43 Delhi Daredevils Vs Deccan Chargers Durban May 13 8 p.m
44 Bangalore Royal Challengers Vs Chennai Super Kings Durban May 14 4 p.m
45 Mumbai Indians Vs Rajasthan Royals Durban May 14 8 p.m
46 Kings XI Punjab Vs Delhi Daredevils Bloemfontein May 15 8 p.m
47 Chennai Super Kings Vs Mumbai Indians Port Elizabeth May 16 4 p.m
48 Kolkata Knight Riders Vs Deccan Chargers Johannesburg May 16 8 p.m
49 Kings XI Punjab Vs Deccan Chargers Johannesburg May 17 4 p.m
50 Rajasthan Royals Vs Delhi Daredevils Bloemfontein May 17 8 p.m
51 Kolkata Knight Riders Vs Chennai Super Kings Pretoria May 18 8 p.m
52 Delhi Daredevils Vs Bangalore Royal Challengers Johannesburg May 19 8 p.m
53 Rajasthan Royals Vs Kolkata Knight Riders Durban May 20 4 p.m
54 Chennai Super Kings Vs Kings XI Punjab Durban May 20 8 p.m
55 Mumbai Indians Vs Delhi Daredevils Pretoria May 21 4 p.m
56 Deccan Chargers Vs Bangalore Royal Challengers Pretoria May 21 8 p.m
57 Semi Final 1 Pretoria May 22 8 p.m
58 Semi Final 2 Johannesburg May 23 8 p.m
59 Final Johannesburg May 24 8 p.m

New 2009 IPL Players Auction ,2009 IPL teams,2009 IPL shedule,2009 LATEST NEWS AND UPDATES,2009 IPL gallery

2009-02-07T01:24:00.003+05:30

The players of IPL 2009

Delhi

Virender Sehwag (icon),
Daniel Vettori (US$ 625,000),
Shoaib Malik (US$ 500,000),
Mohammad Asif (US$ 650,000),
AB de Villiers (US$ 300,000),
Dinesh Karthik (US$ 525,000),
Farveez Maharoof (US$ 225,000),
Tillakaratne Dilshan (US$ 250,000),
paul colinwood(1.34 cr),
owasis shaw(1.34cr),
Gautam Gambhir,
Glenn McGrath,
Manoj Tiwary,
Greg Shipperd(coach)

Kolkata

Sourav Ganguly (icon),
Ishant sharma (US$ 950,000)
Shoaib Akhtar (US$ 425,000),
Ricky Ponting (US$ 400,000),
Brendon McCullum (US$ 700,000),
Chris Gayle (US$ 800,000),
Ajit Agarkar (US$ 330,000),
Murali kartik (US $425,000),
Mashraf mortasa(2.94cr)

Mohali

Yuvraj Singh (icon),
Mahela Jayawardene (US$ 475,000),
Kumar Sangakkara (US$ 700,000),
Brett Lee (US$ 900,000),
Sreesanth (US$ 625,000),
Irfan Pathan (US$ 925,000)
Piyush Chawla (US $400,000),
Ravi bopara(2.20cr)

Hyderabad

Adam Gilchrist (US$ 700,000),
Andrew Symonds (US$ 1.35 million),
Herschelle Gibbs (US$ 575,000),
Shahid Afridi (US$ 675,000),
Scott Styris (US$ 175,000)
R P Singh (US $875,000),
dwayne smith(49 lacks),
Fied Edwards(73.5lacks),
VVS Laxman,
Rohit Sharma,
Chamara Silva,
Nuwan Zoysa,
Chaminda Vaas

Bangalore

Rahul Dravid (icon),
Anil Kumble (US$ 500,000),
Jacques Kallis (US$ 900,000),
Zaheer Khan (US$ 450,000),
Mark Boucher (US$ 450,000),
Cameron White (US$ 500,000),
Makhaya ntini (US$ 200,000),
Nathan bracken (US$ 325,000. )
Dale Steyn (US$ 325,000),
Kevin pieterson(7.35cr),
jessie Ryder(78.4lacks)
Shivnarine Chanderpaul

Mumbai

Sachin Tendulkar (icon),
Sanath Jayasuriya (US$ 975,000),
Harbhajan Singh (US$ 850,000),
Shaun Pollock (US$ 550,000),
Lasith malinga (US$ 350,000)
Dilhara fernando (US$ $150,000)
kyelie Mills(73.5lacks),
J.P.Duminy(4.65cr)

Chennai

MS Dhoni (US$ 1.5 million),
Muttiah Muralitharan (US$ 600,00),
Matthew Hayden (US$ 375,000),
Jacob Oram (US$ 675,000),
Stephen Fleming (US$ 350,000),
Parthiv Patel (US$ 325,000),
Joginder Sharma (US$ 225,000),
Suresh Raina,
Albie Morkel (US$ 650,000),
Andrew Flintoff(7.35cr),
Tilan Thushara(68.6lacks),
Georg bauli(24.5lacks)
Makhaya Ntini,
Michael Hussey

Jaipur

Mohammad Kaif,
Shane Warne (US$ 450,000),
Graeme Smith (US$ 475,000),
Younis Khan (US$ 225,000),
Kamran Akmal (US$ 150,000),
Munaf Patel (US$ 275,000)
Yusuf (US$ 475,000),
Jessie Ryder(78.4lacks),
Shaun Tait(1.83cr),
Tyron henderson(3.18cr),
Yusuf Pathan,

Today the eight franchisees are set to buy 17 players from a pool of 50 with a total auction purse of US $ 13.59 million at stake. Teams Auction Purse Slots Available in Team Chennai Super Kings $2,000,000 3 Deccan Chargers $1,900,000 2 Delhi Daredevils $1,450,000 2 Kolkata Knight Riders $1,210,000 1 Kings XI Punjab $1,450,000 2 Mumbai Indians $1,760,000 3 Rajasthan Royals $1,875,000 2 Royal Challengers Bangalore $1,945,000 2 Total $13,590,000 17

The 50 cricketers up for grabs at the player auction have been divided into two initial sets of 5 players each and then subsequent sets of 10 players. The first sets will include the players with the highest reserve price. Within each set, there will be a random selection to determine the order in which players will be presented for auction. The auction list includes 18 Australians, 7 Englishmen, 5 Sri Lankans, 3 New Zealanders, 7 South Africans, 6 West Indians and 4 Bangladeshis

IPL: Pietersen, Flintoff replace Dhoni as highest paid players

Kevin Pietersen and Andrew Flintoff have replaced Dhoni as highest paid IPL players in season two of the Indian Premier League (IPL) with a price tage of $1550000 each. The former captain of England Kevin Pietersen and all-rounder Andrew Flintoff wer ethe two most talked about players in the Friday auction. Pietersen had been listed at a reserve price of $1.35 million, while Flintoff came second at $950,000. At the third place was South African Jean Paul Duminy at $300,000, who has been sold to Mumbai Indians for $950000. UB Group-owned Bangalore Royal Challengers is keen on having a dynamic Twenty20 batsman in the side and Pietersen perfectly fits the bill. Sources said the deal is as good as settled with Royal Challengers threatening to go all the way for the belligerent right-hander. Then, Flintoff is the man teams will be vying for. In fact, the Englishman can end up as the costliest player to be sold, with Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings and Kings XI Punjab eyeing the all-rounder. Chennai has an advantage, given that they are the only team left with the full $2 million available to each team for the auction. Unlike the last time when the IPL, spearheaded by the International ManagementGroup, decided on the reserve prices for cricketers, this time, either the players or their agents have decided on the price. “Last time, we took the risk of setting the reserve price for cricketers. This time, the players have done it themselves,” Mr Modi said. This means players who are not sold will be left with nothing unlike the last year when the IPL had to pay those who missed out.

Last year, 86 players were available within a total spending pool of $40 million. This time, 50 players make the list for a spending pool of $13.59 million.

Meanwhile, with the Pakistan government banning their players from touring India, six cricketers’ contracts with their respective franchisees have been terminated, while three franchisees, Bangalore Royal Challengers, Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders, have simply suspended their contracts with Misbah-ul Haq, Sohail Tanvir, Kamran Akmal and Umar Gul. This means, players whose contracts have been terminated will have to be a part of the auctions once again, if and when the government lifts the ban. However, the players suspended can be a part of their respective teams in a similar scenario. For all Pakistani players not available, the franchisees can opt for replacement players.

In an attempt to increase their fan-following, the IPL governing council has allowed the franchisees to play matches in catchment areas. Franchisees can either play one or all matches in catchment areas. This means, Mumbai can host matches in Goa and Maharashtra.

Australian batsman Michael Clarke, who was the third costliest player in the list, pulled out of the auction window on Thursday. It is unlikely that Clarke will now be a part of the auction next year either with Mr Modi saying: “He will not be a part of the IPL either this year or the next.”

A total of 17 Aussies, seven Englishmen, five Sri Lankans, seven South Africans and six West Indians will be up for sale. Let the show begin.

IPL's Big-Buy Boys

With cricketers going under the hammer in the season II auction of the DLF Indian Premier League, CricketNDTV.com takes a look at some of the stars who are expected to shine brightly in the cash-rich event.

Kevin Pietersen

When England allowed its players to participate and make some quick money in Indian Premier League, all eyes were on Kevin Pietersen. Bangalore Royal Challengers owner Vijay Mallya cleared his intentions from the very beginning saying he's not going to let go this flamboyant batsman and he didn't let him. KP was bought for $1.55 million to become the richest IPL player. Wow! Great tag! Great money!

Pietersen has played 87 One-Day Internationals and has amassed 3047 runs at an average of 48.36, his highest being 116. The team that bags this aggressive player would not just add on to the star quota but also some aggressive play.

Andrew Flintoff

He is critic's baby and for IPL, he's the perfect Twenty20 material. Freddie has style, attitude and the right approach towards the game. The bid battle for this glitzy cricketer was won Chennai Super Kings who bought him for $1.55 million. His base price was $950,000. He's will be one the most sought after players this season.

Flintoff has appeared in 138 ODI matches and has hit 3391 runs with his highest being 123. His average has been 32.60 with a superb strike rate of 89.02. IPL franchisees would definitely crave for Flintoff's mystique.

J P Duminy

J P Duminy is the new sensation of South African line-up who played a crucial role in Proteas' Test triumph Doun Under. Duminy showed eagerness to play in the star-studded Indian Premier League and he was taken with the same by Mumbai Indians. He got $950,000 which is thrice his base price $300,000.

Duminy's ODI career took off in the year 2004 and he has played 42 matches till now. He has scored 993 runs at an average of 38.19. His recent form and success factor makes him all the more desirable to be part of any franchise's squad.

Shaun Tait

Australian pacer Shan Tait can claim huge money to his name and make the heads turn unexpectedly. He has been off the field since January. He was bought for $375, 000 by Rajasthan Royals.

The quickie has bagged 38 wickets so far in just 22 matches he has played in his ODI career. He has an average of 25.28. Tait has the ability to give the best of players a run for their money. Watch out for him!

Owais Shah

England's in-form Owais Shah became a Delhi Daredevil for $275,000, which is $125,000 more than his base price.

Shah has played 52 ODI matches in total and has accumulated 1288 runs at a good strike-rate of 79.90. Franchisees would surely want a player like him in his side who's in good touch and has been consistent enough for his side.

Paul Collingwood

England's star batsman Paul Collingwood always expressed his passion for Twenty20 cricket and Indian Premier League was the best place to cash in his craziness for the format. His base price was $250,000 and it was expected that he might get much more than that. But those expectations were met with disappointment as he drew $275,000.

Collingwood has played 154 ODI matches in his career so far and has piled up 3773 runs. He has an amazing strike rate 76.19 which makes him desirable enough to be roped in the team.

Mortaza sold to Kolkata at $600,000

Mashrafe Mortaza, the Bangladesh allrounder, is the first player up for sale from Pool F. There were no bids for him initially but just before the hammer went down, Kolkata made a bid at the base price of $50,000. It was the start of the most dramatic sale at the auction.

Kings XI Punjab entered the race, competing against Kolkata, for Mortaza. The bids spiralled slowly towards $400,000 and when the auctioneer asked Punjab if they want to bid $410,000, Priety Zinta nodded. With teams largely sticking to raises of $10,000, the bidding went on and on and on. Kolkata finally touched the $500,000 mark. Punjab went further at $550,000. The atmosphere in the room grew quieter as the bids rose and the auctioneer attempted to speed up the process. Kolkata was the first to bid $600,000 for Mortaza at which point Punjab bowed out of the race. It was the longest lot in the auction, almost as long as a short chess game. Kolkata's purchase of Mortaza was a bit similar to Ishant Sharma's surprise $950,000 tag towards the end of the first auction last year. Mortaza's $600,000 tag was 12 times his base price - the highest jump at last year's auction was Manoj Tiwary's, from $100,000 to $675,000.

Bet there are celebrations in Narail, Mortaza's hometown. What a moment for Mortaza, he's the first Bangladesh player to be bought at the IPL auction this year. Wonder what Shakib is thinking? He's had such a fabulous year with bat and ball and yet there were no bidders for him. Do the franchises look at ICC rankings? Mortaza's base price was $50,000 and he went for $600,000. I think I missed out England allrounder Samit Patel who was on sale in the previous pool. He remained unsold.

The second player on sale from Pool F is Yusuf Abdulla from South Africa but there were no bids for him. South Australia batsman Daniel Harris and Kemar Roach, a bowler from West Indies, also did not attract bids. Neither did Aaron Bird, the New South Wales bowler, and Michael Dighton, the Tasmanian batsman.

Chennai made a bid for George Bailey, a Tasmanian batsman, for $50,000 and won it because there were no other bidders. Michael Hill, who was the U-19 captain for Australia in the last World Cup, also remained unsold, as did Brett Geeves, the Tasmanian bowler.

Kings XI Punjab asked for Jerome Taylor and they will get him at his base price of $150,000. That brings us to the end of the player auction. It's been intense and manic.

Ryder goes to Bangalore, Mills to Mumbai

The auctioneer was ready to shelve Jesse Ryder into the unsold bracket but Bangalore started the late bidding at his base price of $100,000. Chennai competed and raised the bid to $150,000 but Bangalore eventually bought him for $160,000. His New Zealand team-mate Kyle Mills' bidding started at $150,000, by the Mumbai Indians. There were no other bidders for Mills

King's XI Punjab make late bid for Bopara

Chennai Superkings started Ravi Bopara's bidding at $150,000. Bangalore raised the bid to $160,000. Mallya raised the bid to $180,000 after Chennai said $170,000. Bangalore and Chennai were the only bidders for Bopara, raising the bid to $200,000, $250,000 and $275000. Kings XI Punjab made a grand entrance at $400,000 and eventually raised it to $450,00, the winning bid.

Ravi Bopara is of Punjabi origin and returns to his roots. There were no bidders for another England allrounder Luke Wright though.

Sri Lankan medium-pacer Nuwan Kulasekara's bidding began at $100,000 but there were no takers. His recent performances against India have evidently not convinced many in India. Kulasekara's team-mate Thilan Thushara was about to be sold to Chennai at $120,000 but Kolkata raised it to $130,000. Chennai clearly wanted Thushara so they went up to $140,000 and got him

Captaincy options open - Mallya

Vijay Mallya, the owner of Bangalore Royal Challengers, has kept the captaincy options open. Minutes after picking up Kevin Pietersen at US$1.55 million, Mallya said he was happy with the price he got him at. "The captaincy options are open. The team management will take a decision on it." The Royal Challengers, who finished second last the previous year, were led by Rahul Dravid. However, Pietersen will be available only for three weeks.

"He's a superb addition to our team and I was very keen to purchase him," Mallya said. "I got him for a price I was willing to pay. We needed to strengthen our batting. I would like him to play for all six weeks (of the league), if not this year then next year.

"We looked at the balance of the team after exchanging Zaheer Khan with Robin Uthappa. We have South Africans, Australians and team balance was important. I was keen to buy Kevin to give it the balance. We are delighted to buy him."

Tyron Henderson goes to Rajasthan for $650,000

Tyron Henderson's bidding started at $100,000 and the interested buyers were Deccan and Rajasthan. Mumbai eventually raised the bid to $200,000. Deccan bid $300,000 but Rajasthan went up to $325,000 after which Deccan raised it further to $350,000. Rajasthan continued to compete, forcing Deccan to raise their bid to $400,000. Rajasthan raised it to $425,000 but Deccan came back with a bid of $450,000. Not to be outdone, Rajasthan went up to $475,000 but Deccan would not be deterred, raising it to $500,000. The bids continued to escalate and Deccan just when Deccan seemed to have secured Henderson for $600,000, Rajasthan went up to $650,000. Deccan did not raise their bid and Tyron Henderson went to Rajasthan.

Henderson, a medium-pacer, is the leading Twenty20 wicket-taker, with 74 scalps from 62 games. A very useful hard-hitting batsmen too, he was utilised to good effect by Middlesex in their winning campaign in last year's Twenty20 Cup in England.

Australian opener Phil Jaques, and South African batsmen Ashwell Prince remained unsold. Andre Nel also had no buyers

Delhi snap up Collingwood for $275,000

Bangalore made the opening bid for Paul Collingwood at his base price of $250,000. The hammer was about to come down when Delhi Daredevils raised to $275,000. Bangalore did not raise their bid and Collingwood went to Delhi, who have filled up their two available slots.

Here's a re-cap of the action so far. Both Pietersen and Flintoff sold for $1.55 million, becoming the most expensive players in the IPL. Pietersen was picked up by Bangalore while Chennai bought Flintoff. Duminy, whose base price was $300,000, was sold for $950,000 to Mumbai Indians. Rajasthan made the first purchase of the auction, buying Shaun Tait for $375,000.

Fidel Edwards was bought by Deccan Chargers at his base price of $150,000 but there were no takers for Brad Haddin, Stuart Clark and Chamara Kapugedera.

Delhi bag Owais Shah for $275,000

Delhi Daredevils made a bid for Owais Shah at his base price of $150,000. There were no other bids for a while before it started escalating towards $200,000 and beyond. Delhi continued to bid and raised it to $225,000, competing against the Kolkata Knight Riders, before Bangalore entered the race and bid $250,000. Delhi persisted and raised to $275,000, which was the winning bid for Owais Shah.

No takers for Haddin, Kapugedera

Australian wicketkeeper Brad Haddin remained unsold at his opening price of $250,000. He will re-enter the auction later. Stuart Clark was also not bought at his base price of $250,000.

Fidel Edwards, the West Indies fast bowler, has been bought by Deccan Chargers for $150,000. it was his base price. There were no takers for Sri Lanka's Chamara Kapugedera, whose bidding started at $150,000

Pietersen and Flintoff sell for $1.55 million each

Kevin Pietersen started at $1.35 million, his base price, and was bid for by Bangalore Royal Challengers. There was a delay before Rajasthan raised the bid. Bangalore, however, raised the bid again and bought Pietersen at a cost of $1.55 million, the same price as Andrew Flintoff. Pietersen and Flintoff are the most expensive players in the league.

Flintoff becomes IPL's most expensive player

Bidding for England's star allrounder Andrew Flintoff started at $950,000. Rajasthan Royals entered the bidding late for Flintoff, raising the bid to $1.5 million, but Chennai's bid of $ 1.55 million clinched Flintoff. Flintoff is now the most expensive player in the IPL.

Mumbai bag Duminy for $950,000

Mumbai Indians bought South African batsman JP Duminy for $950,000. Duminy's base price was set at $300,000. There was intense bidding for Duminy between Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders.

Defending champions Rajasthan Royals have made the first buy in this year's auction, purchasing Australian fast bowler Shaun Tait for $US375,000.

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2008-09-03T11:08:00.003+05:30

Sunita Lamba, another Olympic gold medalist of India,sunita lamba picture gallery,sunita get medal for sculpture

2008-09-03T10:44:00.002+05:30

New Delhi, Sep 2: If you think Abhinav Bindra was the only gold medal winner at Olympics, then think again, as Sunita Lamba is another gold medal winner at the Beijing Olympics 2008. Sunita Lamba also won a gold medal in Beijing Olympics 2008 apart from Abhinav Bindra. Sunita Lamba, sister of cricketer Raman Lamba, a fine art artist from Delhi won a gold medal for her sculpture at the Beijing Olympics but till now has received no felicitation from Government. Sunita had sent her sculpture, 'Spirit of Unity', for Olympics Fine Arts 2008, an exhibition put up by the organising committee at Beijing, and it was selected for display.

"The chairman of the International Olympic Committee inaugurated the exhibition on August 11 and on the very same day announced the gold medal for me. The medal will be given to me after 40-day exhibition gets over," Lamba said.

"I was also given an Olympic torch besides the certificate of winning the gold medal," Lamba added. Ace shooter Abhinav Bindra is the only sportsperson to have fetched a gold for India at the games this time.

The exhibition will run for a few months in different areas of china itself and after that it will move to countries across the world.

"Is 'art' a discipline which doesn't hold any importance for the country? More than 20 days have passed since I won the medal but no one has contacted me yet," Lamba, who is 40 plus, laments.

"I am not against any reward for any sportspersons but it pinches when the authorities completely ignore you. I belong to a sports family and I believe in sports. My aim is to move ahead in life," said Lamba, who works with The Oberoi hotels in the Capital and is a resident of west Delhi.

Before leaving for Beijing, she had even tried to contact Indian Olympic Association President Suresh Kalmadi and union Culture minister Ambika Soni to tell them about her participation. "I have been making sculptures for the last 25 years and my work was selected from among 10,000 entries for the final 110. Before leaving for Beijing I tried to contact both of them, but didn't get any response from them," Lamba said.

After waiting for a long time, she finally decided to contact the government herself and called Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit last week. Sheila Dikshit asked her to come to the felicitation function of Olympic bronze medal winner in wrestling Sushil Kumar at her residence Monday.

"But even here, the CM just introduced me to the media and that was it. I was not even given a bouquet of flowers. Everyone decorate their houses with costly art prices, but they are not ready to recognise it as a discipline. Boxer, Vijender singh's father congratulated me and expressed his regret over people's ignorance. He said that art is also a sport and I really felt nice talking to him " Lamba said.

The artist will be travelling to Beruit and US to showcase her work. "I have also decided to organise an art show in India in which I will invite the international artists who took part in the Olympics art exhibition," she said.

Her elder brother, Rajan Lamba, said, "The authorities only remember a few people and forget everyone else".

chennai picture gallery,chennai rare old pictures,madras rare old picture gallery

2008-08-29T23:19:00.005+05:30

Old picture of marina beach,Old picture of railway station,Old picture of parrys,Old picture of triplican,Old picture of mountroad,Old picture of annasalai,

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2008-08-29T23:00:00.005+05:30

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2008-08-28T23:00:00.003+05:30

Rangasamy Resigns As Puducherry CM

2008-08-28T22:47:00.001+05:30

Puducherry, Aug 28: Puducherry Chief Minister N Rangsamy resigned on Thursday, bringing an end to the month-long political uncertainty following a revolt by his cabinet colleagues against his leadership.

Rangasamy tendered his resignation to Lt Governor Govind Singh Gurjar at the Raj Nivas apparently on the directions from the Congress High Command.

Gurjar later told reporters that Rangasamy had handed over his resignation, along with his council of ministers.

The Lt Governor also said that he had asked Rangasamy to continue in office till alternative arrangements were made by the President, which would be known within two or three days.

He said he was forwarding the letter to the President.

Rangasamy was asked by the Congress High Command to step down as Chief Minister after he failed to muster majority among the party MLAs at the CLP meeting on Monday.

The AICC has convened a meeting of the CLP today to elect a new leader.

Earlier, Rangasamy said he was thankful to Congress President Sonia Gandhi, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and leaders of alliance parties - CPI, DMK and PMK - for their sustained support to enable him evolve various development schemes.

"The High Command was in touch with me since yesterday," he told reporters, adding that he will attend today's CLP meet.

Rangasamy appealed to the people to maintain calm and assured that he would continue to strive hard for the development of the Congress in Puducherry. - Agencies

"Malltastic": Citi Centre Mall,chennai citi center

2008-08-28T22:38:00.001+05:30

The advent of Citi Centre Mall has literally revolutined Chennai's shopping turf. Modelled along the lines of Dubai's famous Citi Centre Mall, it is now giving the old players like Spencer's and Abhirami's a run for their moolah.

With its neo-classical European architecture, this mall is hard to miss, and is hardly surprising that it's a crowd-puller. Step into the five-storeyed mall and a plethora of national and international brands greet you instantly.

There are Giordano and Wills Lifestyle to check out for the latest in Western casual, professional and party wear. Vanilla stores, such as, Helvitica and Allen Solly stand check by jowl with heavyweights like Landmark, Lifestyle, Mochi and Adidas.

Done with shopping and time to grab a bite? At the food court dig into the cuisine of your choice. Wangs, Sangeetha, Little Italy, Arabian Hut and Pizza Hut are some of the many restaurants that will tease your palate. But if fine-dining is what you're looking for, then simply head over to the multicuisine rooftop restaurant run by Park Sheraton called Level 4.

You can also choose to relax and de-stress on the wonderful massage chair that gives you a brief rub down your back and neck. And if you thought that was all thing again. There is Fun City, an arcade centre, wherein kids can enjoy rounds of electronic games and be giddy with joy. For grown-ups there is the INOX multiplex, and a range of flicks to choose from.

So, whether you're a curious onlooker or an avid shopper, movie-goer or a foodie, Citi Centre is sure to keep you happily occupied.

Manmohan responsible for breaking coalition: Buddhadeb

2008-08-27T22:35:00.001+05:30

Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee on Wednesday said that Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was responsible for breaking the UPA coalition which had resulted in withdrawal of Left support to the government.

Speaking at the condolence meeting of former CPI-M general secretary Harkishan Singh Surjeet here, Bhattacharjee said that the Left's support to UPA government was not unconditional.

"We had been opposing the 123 deal as it would undermine the country's sovereignty," he said.

He said that the Prime Minister had broken the coalition by trying to enter into the civil-nuclear deal with the US.

The Left parties are in such a situation now that they have to ward off dangers posed by the Congress on one side and BJP on the other. "In this scenario, we will have to build up a separate front," he said.

Referring to BJP, he said that although the party was not in power, it was trying to raise its `ugly head' as manifested in the recent violence in J&K and Orissa.

Recounting Surjeet's contribution to coalition politics, he said that the Left parties should garner enough strength to fight communal forces.

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2008-08-27T21:59:00.005+05:30

Chiranjeevi launches 'Praja Rajyam ',Chiranjeevi moves EC for registration of his party

2008-08-27T00:22:00.003+05:30

Tirupati (PTI): In true cinematic style, Telugu superstar Chiranjeevi launched his party 'Praja Rajyam' before a mammoth crowd of his fans and supporters pledging to work for social justice as its main agenda and to root out corruption.

He made the much-awaited announcement in this temple town in filmy style after a long speech and a short dialogue session with the assembled gathering. Soon after he announced the name a short song and sequence came on the giant screen behind him on the dais which the few lakh audience lapped it up enormously.

The 53-year-old matinee idol and son of a police constable outlined his party's vision in various sectors and also unveiled the party flag -- green and white with the sun in the middle - amidst rapturous applause from the huge gathering.

In his more than hour-long speech, the megastar, however, skirted thorny issues like Telangana statehood demand, naxalism and categorisation of Scheduled Castes, saying a "collective decision" would be taken on these matters after "scientific evaluation".

"On these sensitive issues, I cannot take an immediate decision. We will take inputs from intellectuals and come to a collective decision", Chiranjeevi told the gathering at the sprawling 120-acre Avilala Tank.

Chiranjeevi, a Padma Bhushan awardee, has acted in 148 films. Former President A P J Abdul Kalam had inspired him to take a plunge into politics and vowed to bring about positive change in politics.

Earlier, excited over their matinee idol's political debut, Chiranjeevi's fans went out of control at the site of the public meeting leading police to lathicharge on them. Thousands of Chiranjeevi fans, who poured in from all over Andhra Pradesh to listen to their star revealing the name and agenda of his party, swamped into the chamber which was alloted for physically challenged people. Chiranjeevi said his party would work for the empowerment of poor and weaker sections of the society. Touching upon a string of socio-economic issues, he said Praja Rajyam would accord top priority for agricultural development and welfare of farmers, primary health, education, labour welfare, opportunities for youth and women. The actor, who was the sole speaker at the more than two-hour-long meeting, also promised to come up with a clear-cut policy on regulation of liquor trade. "Fighting corruption, particularly the political corruption, will be one of our main agenda," Chiranjeevi said. "Change and Social Justice" appeared to be the mantra of mega star as he unveiled his political vision before the gathering. "Today, we are sounding the bugle for a major battle against the social ills. There are no leaders in the battle but only servants. I am your servant. We will win this battle. No one can stop us," Chiranjeevi said with a dramatic flourish.

On the raging demand for separate Telangana state, Chiranjeevi appeared to tread a cautious path. Attributing the backwardness in Telangana region to the failure of the successive governments, he said, "if the division becomes inevitable, we will co-operate and assist the process. Let us respect the sentiments of the region which has suffered neglect in all sectors."

Chiranjeevi, who hails from the backward 'Kapu' community, said his party would also work for "additional reservations" for the economically backward among the forward castes. Invoking Kalam's pet concept of PURA (Providing Urban Amenities in Rural Areas), he said Praja Rajyam would strive for realising the dream of "Gram Swaraj." Referring to the controversy over Special Economic Zones, he said his party would oppose acquisition of farm lands for SEZs.

"While we are for industrialisation, we will not allow fertile lands to be taken over in the name of development. We will also oppose selling away of government lands," Chiranjeevi said.

Chiranjeevi moves EC for registration of his party

Soon after launching his new party "Praja Rajyam", Telugu film actor Chiranjeevi moved the Election Commission on Tuesday for its registration.

EC sources said representatives of the megastar submitted an application to the commission for registration of the party. Earlier, the cine star announced the name of his political party at a mammoth public rally in the temple town of Tirupati.

Invoking former President A P J Abdul Kalam's advice, the 53-year old matinee idol last week made a grand entry into politics, a move that is expected to alter political equations in Andhra Pradesh ahead of next year's assembly elections.

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2008-08-27T00:00:00.003+05:30

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2008-08-26T00:20:00.004+05:30

Saroja Cleared with 'U' certificate!

2008-08-26T00:10:00.001+05:30

Venkat Prabhu's Saroja, which is set to hit the halls by August 30, has been censored and given a clean U certificate.

The unit feels happy to get U certificate, as most of its members were said to be expecting A or U/A certification, as the film has some violence and intimate romantic scenes. The censor board has given a clean U after cutting down a few romantic and violent scenes.

It may be recalled that the action packed Sathyam, starring Vishal and Nayanthara, got a straight U/A because of the sensuous portrayal of romance between the lead pair. Venkat's Saroja too is an action entertainer and hence it was expected that the film too would get U/A certificate.

It is also believed that Dhaam Dhoom, in which Jayam Ravi plays the lead role, will also get a 'U' certificate. Dhaam Dhoom too is an action packed movie and some sensual scenes involving Ravi and Kangana Ranavath.

Kamal's To Direct 'Marmayogi'

2008-08-24T21:48:00.001+05:30

Actor Kamal Hassan is preparing for his next big budget multi-lingual venture, "Marmayogi" (mysterious saint) after his latest flick "Dasavatharam," The film, to be directed by the actor himself, will be produced by Rajkamal Movies in association with Pyramid Saimira Theatre Ltd.
As with many of his films, speculation is ripe in Kollywood (Tamil film industry) about the story line of the new project and the film unit is tightlipped.

While one theory is that it is a children's film where the actor dons the role of a guide, another predicts that the movie is a remake of the Val Kilmer-starrer "The Saint", where the Hollywood star donned multiple roles.

The actor is known for his penchant for multiple roles, as he did in "Michael Madana Kama Rajan" and "Dasavatharam".

It is also speculated that it will be competition for the multi-crore Rajni-starrer "Robot".

Kamal Hassan has already donned the role of director in his critically-acclaimed "Hey Ram," a plot intertwining pre and post-Independence India, "Virumaandi" and "Mumbai Express." With the actor sporting a thick beard and film stills showing him with long, untidy hair and wearing classic battle robes, rumour has it that `Marmayogi' could be a remake of Mel Gibson's "Braveheart".

Yet to go public on his project, all Kamal Hassan had to say was that he would make the official cut soon, and the aim was to "make a quality offering to the people."

Mamata gives alternative proposal to end Singur impasse

2008-08-24T21:39:00.000+05:30

Singur, Aug 24 Launching the Trinamool Congress' dharna demanding return of 400 acres of land acquired for Tata Motors car project, party chief Mamata Banerjee today said the Singur impasse could be peacefully resolved by utilising an alternate low-lying land instead of the present plant site.
"There is a 500 acre low-lying land near the project site where the ancillary units can come up and the government can decide on it. If the government agrees, we will show it to them," Banerjee told a huge gathering near the Tata Motors plant here.

The Trinamool-run panchayat bodies would be informed about this land and they would be involved in the process, she said, rejecting West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee's proposal yesterday that the government was ready with a package and wanted talks on it.

"That is an old proposition. That will not solve the problem," the TC chief told PTI when asked.

The proposed land was lying with CPI(M)-backed promoters, she claimed.

However, if the land was not used for the vendor park, the party-controlled panchayat would not allow construction of multi-storey buildings there, she warned.

Mamata repeatedly appealed to party workers to peacefully conduct the dharna and said her party did not want the Tatas to leave, but to restrict its small car factory at Singur to 600 acre.

She said that in their letter to her the Tatas had stated that they required 600 acre for the small car project. "Please don't change your stand every day

Will BMW race ahead of Mercedes in India?

2008-08-21T22:53:00.001+05:30

Not too long ago, Peter Kronschnabl was ensconced in Munich, Germany, working as a general manager with luxury car maker BMW.

Entrusted with market development in the Asia-Pacific, Africa and central and east Europe, his job was to evaluate markets where BMW had the potential to set up its own subsidiary. He had already done Poland and Hungary when India began to beep on his radar. And that changed his life.

At first, it was like any other project report -- a desk analysis in June 2004 followed by two weeks of field analysis in September that involved meeting industrialists, consultants, potential buyers and long stretches of road travel.

At the end of it, Kronschnabl submitted a very optimistic opinion of India. "I gathered that everybody in India was on the move. The people were eager to achieve and open-minded. I could feel the drive of the country," he says.

In the normal course, he would be done by that stage and head to his post in Munich. But the BMW bosses decided to add a twist to the plot and asked Kronschnabl to make good his own report.

"A project like that. . . India is BMW's most strategic project globally. . . You do the entire groundwork and entry. . . you can prove in reality that the strategy was right."

He proved that so quickly that he surprised himself. Unmarried, Kronschnabl moved to India in August 2006 as country head and president and ignited operations in January of next year.

Boxer Vijender ensures another medal for India

2008-08-21T22:32:00.000+05:30

Vijender Kumar ensured another medal for India at the Beijing olympics
when he beat Carlos Gongora of Ecuador in the quarter-finals of the 75 kg category in the boxing competition on Wednesday.

The victory assures him and India at least a bronze medal.

Earlier in the evening, just as the country celebrated wrestler Sushil Kumar's bronze medal victory in men's 66kg freestyle event, another Indian pugilist, Jitender Kumar, went down fighting to Russia's Georgy Balakshin in the quarter-finals of the 51 kg category.

'The world is now scared to face Indian boxers'

The Bhiwani pugilist, one of India's best medal hopes at the Games, was ahead in all the four rounds and deservedly clinched a 9-4 verdict.

The Ecuadorean had no answer to the Indian's flurry of punches and trailed 1-4 in the second round.

Vijender repeatedly scored with left-hand jabs and uppercuts to which Carlos had no answer.

With the score reading 7-2 in Vijender's favour after the penultimate round, the Ecuadorean needed to go all out in the fourth and final round. Though he did narrow the gap, Vijender's evading tactics and good defence clinched him victory.

Vijender won the opening round 2-0, the second round 2-1, the third 3-2 and 2-1.

He made it to the last eight stage after overwhelming Angkhan Chomphuphuang of Thailand 13-3 in a lop-sided pre-quarter-final on Saturday night.

Earlier in the competition, he thoroughly dominated his opening bout against Gambia's Jack Badou, scoring a facile 13-2 win.

Indian Sushil, Vijender provide sparks to India's Olympic campaign

2008-08-20T21:28:00.002+05:30

Indian Sushil, Vijender provide sparks to India's Olympic campaign

Beijing, Aug 20 India's fledgling Olympic campaign today received a sensational boost with unheralded grappler Sushil Kumar clinching a bronze medal and boxer Vijender Kumar assuring himself of at least a bronze to give the country a record three medals for the first time ever.

After Abhinav Bindra's gold-winning feat during the first week of the sporting extravaganza, the 25-year-old Sushil Kumar shot into fame by winning a bronze medal in the wrestling arena while Vijender has put himself on course for a silver or gold medal on a historic day for Indian sports.

Sushil and Vijender's heroics not only provided the late sparks to an otherwise dismal campaign but has created a record of sorts as India had never returned with three medals from the Olympics.

India had won two Olympic medals in the 1952 Helsinki Games when the hockey team had won the gold medal and wrestler K D Jadhav had won a bronze medal, a record which had stood for 56 long years.

While Sushil and Vijender did the country proud, there was some heartbreak for the Indians with another medal contender pugilist Jitender Kumar losing his quarter-final bout despite a valiant effort in the ring.

After days of disappointments, it turned out to be a day to cherish for the Indians as Sushil found his way to the record books by becoming only the second wrestler in India's Olympic history to win a bronze medal in the men's 66 kg freestyle category.

President Pratibha Patil, PM Dr. Manmohan Singh, Delhi CM Shiela Dixit and many other dignitaries have congratulated Sushil Kumar for winning a bronze medal at Beijing Olympics. Delhi CM Shiela Dixit has announced a cash reward of Rs. 50 lakh and a job for Sushil Kumar. She also decided to give a promotion to Sushil's coach.

iPhone n india, models to cost Rs 31,000 & Rs 36,100 in India

2008-08-20T21:04:00.002+05:30

iPhone models to cost Rs 31,000 & Rs 36,100 in India

Indian consumers, who have waited for months to own the iconic 3G-enabled Apple iPhone, will have to pay Rs 31,000 for the entry-level 8GB memory mobile phone and Rs 36,100 for a model with double the memory.

Both Vodafone and Airtel will be launching the iPhone on August 22 and industry experts say bookings and pre-launch interest suggest that they would be able to sell over 100,000 phones in the next 12 months. Companies like Vodafone, which opened bookings for the phones in July, have already received booking requests of over 10,000 phones.

The domestic price, however, is much steeper than the US price. The handset is available for $199 (Rs 8,358) in the US, plus $99 (Rs 4,158) as an annual contract with the telecom company since the handsets are linked to the service provider.

These lower prices are possible because of the large subsidies that service providers are willing to provide to woo customers. In India however, neither company will offer a subsidy.

However, the non-3G Apple iPhone — which was launched by the company earlier — is available in the Indian grey market at around Rs 20,000, down from Rs 24,000 a few months ago. Grey market operators are now also cracking the codes for the 3G Apple iPhone and said it would be priced Rs 4,000 to Rs 5,000 cheaper than the Vodafone or Airtel price points. Second-hand 2G iPhones are available for around Rs 15,000.

The 3G iPhone will have faster downloads, an in-built GPS system and direct connections to YouTube, among other features.

Meanwhile, leading handset makers like Nokia, Motorola and Samsung have stepped up their R&D efforts to introduce feature-rich phones in India to compete with iPhones.

The world will end in 2012, say experts ...

2008-08-19T23:19:00.003+05:30

Several experts from across the globe are predicting that the earth is likely to end by the year 2012. The reason could be a human effect or natural disaster. From Chinese theories to scientific predictions the most likely date is the year 2012.

SCIENTIFIC EXPERTS from around the world are predicting that five years from now, all life on Earth could well come to an end. Some are saying it’ll be humans that would set it off. Others believe that a natural phenomenon will be the cause. And the religious folks are saying it’ll be God himself who would press the stop button. The following are some likely arguments as to why the world would end by the year 2012.

Reason one: Mayan calendar

The first to predict 2012 as the end of the world were the Mayans, a bloodthirsty race that were good at two things -- building highly accurate astrological equipment out of stone and sacrificing virgins.

Thousands of years ago they managed to calculate the length of the lunar moon as 329.53020 days, only 34 seconds out. The Mayan calendar predicts that the earth will end on December 21, 2012. Given that they were pretty close to the mark with the lunar cycle, it’s likely they’ve got the end of the world right as well.

Reason two: Sun storms

Solar experts from around the world monitoring the sun have made a startling discovery. Our sun is in a bit of strife. The energy output of the sun is, like most things in nature, cyclic and it’s supposed to be in the middle of a period of relative stability. However, recent solar storms have been bombarding the earth with lot of radiation energy. It’s been knocking out power grids and destroying satellites. This activity is predicted to get worse and calculations suggest it’ll reach its deadly peak sometime in 2012.

Reason three: The atom smasher

Scientists in Europe have been building the world’s largest particle accelerator. Basically, its a 27 km tunnel designed to smash atoms together to find out what makes the universe tick. However, the mega-gadget has caused serious concern, with some scientists suggesting that it’s properly even a bad idea to turn it on in the first place. They’re predicting all manner of deadly results, including mini black holes. So when this machine is fired up for its first serious experiment in 2012, the world could be crushed into a super-dense blob the size of a basketball.

Reason four: The Bible says it

If having scientists warning us about the end of the world isn’t bad enough, religious folks are getting in on the act as well. Interpretations of the Christian Bible reveal that the date for Armageddon, the final battle between good an evil, has been set for 2012. The I Ching, also known as the Chinese Book of Changes, says the same thing, as do various sections of the Hindu teachings.

Reason five: Super volcano

Yellowstone National Park in United States is famous for its thermal springs and old faithful geyser. The reason for this is simple -- it’s sitting on top of the world’s biggest volcano and geological experts are beginning to get nervous sweats. The Yellowstone volcano has a pattern of erupting every 650,000 years or so, and we’re many years overdue for an explosion that will fill the atmosphere with ash, blocking the sun and plunging the earth into a frozen winter that could last up to 15,000 years. The pressure under the Yellowstone is building steadily, and geologists have set 2012 as a likely date for the big bang.

Reason six: The physicists

This one’s case of bog -- simple maths mathematics. Physicists at Berkely University have been crunching the numbers. They’ve determined that the earth is well overdue for a major catastrophic event. Even worse, they’re claiming that their calculations prove that we’re all going to die, very soon. They are also saying that their prediction comes with a certainty of 99 per cent; and 2012 just happens to be the best guess as to when it occurs.

Reason seven: Earth’s magnetic field

We all know the Earth is surrounded by a magnetic field that shields us from most of the sun’s radiation. What you might not know is that the magnetic poles we call North and South have a nasty habit of swapping places every 750,000 years or so -- and right now we’re about 30,000 years overdue. Scientists have noted that the poles are drifting apart roughly 20-30 kms each year, much faster than ever before, which points to a pole-shift being right around the corner. While the pole shift is under way, the magnetic field is disrupted and will eventually disappear, sometimes for up to 100 years. The result is enough UV outdoors to crisp your skin in seconds, killing everything it touches.

India's Gold medallist Abhinav bindra news,Gold medallist Abhinav bindra gallery,Gold medallist Abhinav bindra pictures

2008-08-12T01:22:00.003+05:30

India's Gold medallist Abhinav bindra news,Gold medallist Abhinav bindra gallery,Gold medallist Abhinav bindra pictures

Indian and Finnish surprises rule the day

(BEIJING, August 11) -- Upsets marked the third day of competition in the Olympic Shooting tournament.

India's Abhinav Bindra surprised all by winning the gold medal in the Men's 10m Air Rifle. Bindra shot a total of 700.5 to defeat favorite Zhu Qinan of China and Henri Hakkinen of Finland, who won the silver and bronze medals respectively.

Bindra's gold medal is the first time that an Indian athlete has won an individual Olympic gold medal. India's previous eight gold medals were all won in Hockey.

Athens 2004 gold medalist Zhu will be disappointed at not winning his second Olympic gold medal, but he has a lot more Olympic competition ahead of him -- Zhu is only 23 years old.

At 25, Bindra is not much older than Zhu, so today's event could be the start of a promising rivalry between the shooters from the world's most populous countries.

Bindra, who secured the gold medal with a 10.8 on his last shot, managed to block out the pressure of being India's first individual gold medalist.

"I was trying to concentrate on shooting. I wasn't thinking about making history. I mean I was two points behind at one stage. I was just trying to concentrate. I just wanted to shoot well, I just wanted to shoot aggressively, and that's what I did," said Bindra.

Zhu on the other hand, shot well below his best and was probably affected by the huge expectations placed on him to win gold.

"My desire for getting another gold medal for my motherland was so strong that I was under so much stress before the Games," said Zhu.

Finland's Satu Makela-Nummela won the gold medal in the Women's Trap, making her only the third Finnish woman to win an Olympic gold medal.

To win gold, Makela-Nummela was forced to defeat Slovakia's Zuzana Stefecekova, who is a world recorder in the event.

Makela-Nummela shot a final score of 91, two more than Stefecekova. The United States' Corey Cogdell won the bronze medal after winning a shoot-off.

The gold medal was an open race after the two favorites, San Marino's Daniela Del Din and China's Liu Yingzi failed to make the final.

Nation Line up To Congratulate Abhinav bindra

ts showering accolades for the Gold medallist Abhinav bindra and here's a round up how an entire nation and fraternity lined up to congratulate the young shooter!

PM, President Congratulate

President Pratibha Patil, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and leaders across the political class today hailed the gold medal winning feat of shooter Abhinav Bindra, saying it would be an inspiration to youths to take up sports as a full-time career. Lavishing full-some praise on Bindra, they said his achievement would inspire other sportspersons to reach the pinnacle of any sports at the international level.

Patil said "Bindra has realised the dream of a billion people" and his achievement "is even greater as not only has India won a gold medal at the Olympics after a very long gap of 28 years but also because you have become the first ever Indian to win a gold medal at the Olympics in an event." She said Bindra's achievement "should inspire confidence among all Indian sportspersons that they can achieve the pinnacle of any sports at the international level and be also inspiration for more of our youths to take up sports as a full-time career".

Vice President Hamid Ansari said Bindra's "singular achievement is an inspiration for all Indian sportspersons and has made the country proud." Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said the shooter has "done the nation proud through his spectacular achievement which I hope will inspire you and other sportspersons of our country to achieve the highest levels of excellence in the international arena".

Sonia says win will inspire contingent

New Delhi: Congress President and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi today congratulated Abhinav Bindra for getting an Olympic gold and said the "victory will inspire the whole Olympic contingent to keep India's flag flying high".

In a letter written to Bindra and addressed to him in the Olympics Games village in beijing Gandhi said, "You have brought pride, glory and joy to India with your brilliant performance in the 10-metre air-rifle shooting at the Beijing Olympics".

"To you goes the honour of being the first Indian ever to have won an individual Olympic gold medal - an honour that is richly deserved.." Praising Bindra, the letter said, "your mental strength, your discipline and perseverance, your calm concentration in the face of tremendous pressure, your superb physical coordination, and your ardent desire to do your country proud - all these qualities came together in your victorious performance in Beijing".

In her letter, Gandhi wished she was in Beijing to witness the exhilarating moment. "I wish, I was there to witness this exhilarating moment," she said, adding, "along with every Indian, I rejoice and congratulate you in your shining achievement".

Gandhi hoped that Bindra's victory will inspire the whole Indian contingent to keep India's flag flying high.

Kumble and Co congratulates Olympic gold medalist Bindra

Colombo : India Test skipper Anil Kumble heaped praise on Abhinav Bindra for winning first-ever individual Olympic gold medal for the country and congratulated him on behalf of his entire team for his tremendous effort.

"Winning an Olympic gold medal is something really great and my congratulations on behalf of the Indian cricket team. Congratulations to Abhinav Bindra for a fantastic effort," Kumble said.

"It's a great effort to become a world champion and winning an individual medal in a sport is a greater achievement," he added.

Bindra created history in the Chinese capital by claiming winning the 10m air rifle event today to give india its first ever individual gold in Olympic

Yuvraj Excited

Chandiagrh: Cricketer Yuvraj Singh today joined the nation in hailing Abhinav Bindra's Olympic gold medal winning feat in Beijing and said he was proud of his citymate's achievement.

"He (Abhinav) has proved that he is the best. As a sportsman, I feel proud of his achievement like the whole nation today," Yuvraj told PTI.

Bindra created history in the Chinese capital by claiming winning the 10m air rifle event today to give India its first ever individual gold in Olympic

Tamil Nadu announces five lakh for Bindra

Chennai : tamil nadhu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi today announced an award of Rs five lakh to ace shooter Abhinav Bindra for winning the Gold Medal in the 10m Air Rifle shooting event at the Beijing Olympics.

While congratulating Abhinav Bindra for his gold winning performance on behalf of Tamil Nadu Government, Karunanidhi, in a statement, said "Bindra has brought glory to the entire nation".

Karnataka To Award Ten Lakhs

Bangalore : Karnataka government today announced Rs 10 lakh cash award to shooter Abhinav Bindra who won India's first olympic individual gold medal at Beijing. Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa, who complimented Bindra for bringing laurels to the nation, also announced that his government will reward any Indian Sportsperson with Rs 10 lakh cash prize if they win gold medal in the ongoing Olympics.

olympics beijing 2008 gallery beijing news beijing updates beijing schedule

2008-08-11T00:02:00.002+05:30

olympics beijing 2008 gallery beijing news beijing updates bejing schedule

BEIJING 2008 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 2008	6	7	8	9	10	11	12	13	14	15	16	17	18	19	20	21	22	23	24
Matches	-2	-1	0	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12	13	14	15	16
	W	T	F	S	S	M	T	W	T	F	S	S	M	T	W	T	F	S	S
SPORT																				Finals
Opening Ceremony
Closing Ceremony
Athletics										2	4	6	6	5	3	6	7	7	1	47
Rowing										R	7	7								14
Badminton										1	2	2								5
Baseball												R				R		1		1
Basketball																		1	1	2
Boxing																		5	6	11
Canoe/Kayak -- Flatwater																	6	6		12
Canoe/Kayak -- Slalom							2		2											4
Cycling -- Track										1	3	1	2	3						10
Cycling -- Road				1	1			2												4
Cycling -- Mountain Bike																	1	1		2
Cycling -- BMX																2				2
Equestrian -- Jumping													1	R		1	R	R	R	2
Equestrian -- Dressage									1	R				1	R					2
Equestrian -- Eventing							2													2
Fencing				1	1	1	1	2	1	1	1	1								10
Football																1		1		2
Artistic Gymnastics							1	1	1	1		4	3	3	G					14
Gymnastics -- Trampoline													1	1						2
Rhythmic Gymnastics																		1	1	2
Weightlifting				1	2	2	2	2		2	1	1	1	1						15
Handball																		1	1	2
Hockey																	1	1		2
Judo				2	2	2	2	2	2	2										14
Wrestling -- Greco-Roman							2	2	3											7
Wrestling -- Freestyle											2	2		2	2	3				11
Aquatics -- Swimming					4	4	4	4	4	4	4	4			1	1				34
Aquatics -- Syn. swimming															1			1		2
Aquatics -- Diving					1	1	1	1				1		1		1		1		8
Aquatics -- Water-polo																1			1	2
Modern Pentathlon																1	1			2
Softball														R		1				1
Taekwondo															2	2	2	2		8
Tennis											2	2								4
Table Tennis												1	1				1	1		4
Shooting				2	2	2	2	1	2	1	2	1								15
Archery					1	1			1	1										4
Triathlon													1	1						2
Sailing											2	1	2	2	2	2	R	R	R	11
Volleyball																		1	1	2
Beach Volleyball																1	1			2
Finals				7	14	13	19	17	17	16	30	34	18	20	11	23	20	31	12	302

Opening Ceremony : Indians display a bad fashion statement

Beijing, Aug 8 : A slipshod India cut a sorry figure in the Beijing Olympics Opening Ceremony with the female members of the contingent making it a veritable go-as-you-like with their contrasting outfits that made them look completely misfit for the occasion.

With Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore carrying the tri-colour, the contingent looked good from far, as the male members decked out in off-white sherwanis. But as they came closer, things looked hardly impressive.

The tennis duo of and Sunitha Rao, attired in black trousers and practice jackets, looked completely out of sorts and the contrast was even more jarring to the eyes as going side by side was Delhi paddler Neha Aggarwal who chose a greenish saree for the occasion.

Though the generous crowd at the Bird's Nest stadium roared to greet the Indians, it was a shoddy fashion statement by the Indians.

The moment they entered the Congress President Sonia Gandhi was on her feet and waved at them and the athletes also reciprocated.

Kuselan Movie Review Kuselan Movie Pictures

2008-07-31T16:55:00.003+05:30

Kuselan Movie Review Kuselan Movie Pictures , Gallery , Wallpapers , Nayanthara Pictures , Box office Analysis , Collection Report

Starring: Rajini, Pasupathy, Nayanthara, Meena, Sona, Vadivelu, Vijayakumar

Direction: P Vasu

Music: G V Prakash

Production: K Balachander
Kuselan is 2 hours, 30 minutes long.

Rajinikanth appears twenty minutes after the movie begins.

And remains through the length of the film, though not in every single frame.

In all he appears for a total of 60 minutes.

And in 3 rocking songs.

Kuselan is a fun filled 2 hours, 10 minutes with about 20 minutes given over to emotional drama.
There are no real fight sequences, only the ones staged for this movie within a movie.

It has two parallel stories about two friends - one rich, one poor.

The highlight of Kuselan: 6 punch dialogue sequence filled with comedy that will delight not just fans of Thalaivar but everyone in the audience.

Rajini usually has one stand-out line in every movie -here he takes that old saying, “Matha Pitha Guru Dheivam” and turns it into a new saying about the importance of freindship: “Matha Pitha Guru Nanban Dheivam”. We can bet that this is going to be a catchy line that all of us will be repeating soon.

For many of us who have been wondering a lot about Rajini’s political ambitions and his sojourns into the Himalayas, he answers us all in Kuselan with such wit and tact that it will silence us from speculating anymore!

As in Chandramuki, where the Superstar gave equal screen presence to Prabhu, Vadivelu and Joythika, here, in Kuselan, he has given importance to other actors sharing the screen with him.
Kuselan

The climax, with Pasupathy and Rajini, is sure to melt hearts!

Pasupathy is marvelous; perhaps his best performance to date.

Comedy by Vadivelu is top-notch, rivaling his performance in Chandramukhi.

Nayantara simply sizzles effortlessly, proving why she is the numero uno.

Arivind Krishna’s camera work is prefect, matching the mood of the movie .

This is a Thalaivar movie, and yet it is also something completely different!
Thalaivar’s style here as he plays himself reaches a new high.

You are in for a sumptuous Rajini treat.

RAJINI-Kuselan distribution rights sold for 64 crores

Superstar Rajinikanth starrer Kuselan has been sold for 64 crores to Pyramid Saimeera according to the latest buzz doing rounds in the Tamil industry. The competators for obtaining the distribution rights for Kuselan has been Pyramid Saimeera, Adlabs, and Ayngaran films and Pyramid Saimeera has emerged the victorious of the lot by obtaining the combined rights for Tamil and Telugu for a whopping 64 crores. Kuselan which is the remake of Malayalam superhit Katha Parayumbol has been remade in Tamil as Kuselan and Telugu as Kuseludu

Rajni starrer 'Kuselan' goes to Tokyo film festival

Chennai, July 25 (IANS) Tamil superstar Rajnikant starrer 'Kuselan' will be shown at the Tokyo International Film Festival, starting in October.

The film is scheduled to be released here July 31.

'After the superstar's huge popularity following the success of 'Muthu' in Japan, interest in his films is huge. Since Rajnikant is playing himself, the pre-release response is fantastic,' R. Venkatakrishnan, Chief Operating Officer Pyramid Saimira, told IANS.

Rajnikant's 1995 film 'Muthu' was dubbed in Japanese and released in Japan in 1998. It ran for 288 days in multiple screens.

It is not clear right now whether the actor will attend the festival, said sources close to the actor.

So far Japanese media companies and television stations have produced over 30 documentaries on Rajnikant.

'Kuselan' technicians get Rs.4.5 mn windfall, thanks to Rajnikanth

Chennai, July 1 (IANS) The 100-odd technicians of forthcoming Rajnikanth-starrer Tamil film 'Kuselan' got a windfall of Rs.4.5 million as its hero, producer and director pooled part of their fees and donated the amount to them during the movie's audio release here.

'In my endeavour to help the unsung heroes of the film industry -- the technicians, I have networked with producer Vijay Kumar and director P. Vasu to donate Rs.1.5 million from their overflow and fees, respectively, and added a similar amount from my emoluments,' superstar Rajnikanth announced Monday night.

His announcement was received with thunderous applause from the audience of technicians who were being recognised in such a fashion for the first time in the south Indian film industry.

According to the movie's publicists, 'Kuselan' is an effort on Rajnikanth's part to help his mentor and director K. Balachander.

'When producers said I had to do it sans a big advance on a shoestring budget, I agreed because I liked its story,' Rajnikanth said.

Balachander, who partly owns the film's rights, was overwhelmed by Rajnikant's efforts and said: 'Though I cannot claim to be as great as Swami Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, I can say with pride that Rajni is my Vivekananda.'

Remake of Malayalam hit 'Katha Parayumbol' starring Mammooty, 'Kuselan' is said to have been made at a cost of Rs.600 million, according to industry sources. The storyline is about a film star helping an old acquaintance. It also stars actresses Nayanthara and Meena.

Director Vasu told reporters that though the movie depicts Rajnikanth in 20 different get-ups, including as an Egyptian Pharaoh, it is not an effort to belittle Kamal Haasan whose 'Dasavatharam' featured him in 10 roles.

'The two films are totally different in nature,' Vasu said.

Asked the secret of his young looks in the promos, Rajnikanth modestly said: 'I take the necessary dietary precautions, avoid excessive salt, sugar, milk and think positive.'

The Tamil and Telugu versions of the film are expected to release later this month with over 450 prints in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, said a spokesman of its distributors Pyramid Saimira.

Old Pictures, Chennai

2008-07-23T20:41:00.005+05:30

Bank of madras 1935, Chennai, Showroom Chennai 1913, Chennai, ,Chennai Library 1913 (college studensama), Chennai, ,Chennai Marina beech 1913, Chennai, ,Multi complex Departmental Store 1883, Chennai, , Mylapore chennai 1939, Chennai, , Ambulance at Chennai 1940, Chennai, India

சென்னை pics

2008-07-23T20:36:00.004+05:30

Chennai gets India's first heart implant training centre

2008-07-23T20:28:00.000+05:30

CHENNAI: India has got its first training centre for doctors to learn how to place implants in the heart.

Medtronic, a US-based medical technology service provider, opened its first therapy and procedure training centre (TPTC) in South Asia, in Chennai on Saturday.

A recent report in the premier medical journal The Lancet has said that by 2010, 60 percent of the world's heart patients will be in India. The majority of these patients will suffer from cardiac arrhythmias, heart failure and coronary artery diseases.

Implantable cardiac devices such as pacemakers, de-fibrillators, cardiac therapy devices and coronary stents play a major role in the treatment of these life-threatening conditions.

The process of implanting these cardiac devices is complex and requires highly specialised and technically skilled practitioners.

Launched in 2004, Medtronic has a TPTC mobile unit that travels all over the US, training doctors. It has, so far, trained over 8,500 physicians, nurses and other health professionals via its mobile training unit.

It also has 18 virtual training labs throughout the world, including in the US, central America, Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, half a dozen European countries, China, Japan and Australia.

The Chennai centre, the first in India, is aimed at increasing the number of heart specialists who will know how implant life saving devices in heart patients.

The centre's state-of-the-art classroom and programmer lab will provide training to cardiologists on the programming and follow-up management of these devices. Besides hands-on training, there will also be simulator-equipped class rooms at the centre.

"The therapy and procedure training centre in Chennai is an example of effective training and education used by the company worldwide," Joon Hurh, Medtronic's regional vice president, said on the occasion.

"As more people around the world are in need of implanted medical devices like pacemakers, ICD's and other cardiac devices, so too is the growing need for well-trained clinicians to care for these patients," said Milind Shah, managing director, Medtronic India.

"India has a small number of electro-physiologists (just about 50) who implant high-end devices like CRTs and ICDs to manage heart failures and reduce mortality due to sudden cardiac arrest (SCA)."

"Medtronic is committed to increasing this number in India so that physicians are able to deliver these therapies effectively to more and more patients who need them," Shah said.

The use of simulators is quickly becoming a standard approach to Medtronic training programmes.

Introduced in 2003, Medtronic's virtual labs with state-of-the-art simulator technology provide a safe way for physicians to develop the skills and confidence to implant devices, and for other health professionals to better understand the implantation process, "with life-like implant scenario", the company said.

The simulators are designed to provide a safe environment in which to learn new techniques while avoiding complications and minimising costs.

சென்னை economy

2008-07-23T20:24:00.001+05:30

The city was initially a major port and with the advent of the East India Company, it grew in size after the construction of Fort St George. The city has important branches of many Indian companies. As the capital of the state, Chennai has many government employees. The city also has its own stock exchange, the Madras Stock Exchange.

Chennai's service sector was traditionally dominated by finance and banking as several multinational banks had their in Chennai. Since the late 1990s, software development and business process outsourcing have provided a steady source of employment for city residents.

The IT Corridor in the southeast of the city houses several technology parks. The largest of these is Tidel Park, built by TIDCO, a government initiative. The city is also an important centre for other service industries like advertising and healthcare. Chennai is the base for over forty percent of India's automotive industry. Most of the automotive OEMs in India are based in Chennai, mainly in the Ambattur-Padi industrial zone. Several automotive-related companies such as: TVS, Ashok Leyland, Royal Enfield, Hyundai, Ford, Mitsubishi, TI Cycles and MRF have manufacturing plants in and around Chennai. The Heavy Vehicles Factory, Avadi produces military vehicles, including India's main battle tank

Spencer's Retail Limited @T.NAGAR

2008-07-14T20:21:00.001+05:30

Spencer's Retail Limited, re-launched its store at T Nagar in the city and the new-look store was inaugurated by AVM Saravanam and M. Murali, Managing Director of Sri Krishna Sweets.

The T Nagar store, which has been in existence since 1996 has been completely refurbished to reflect the new brand statement of Spencer's - Taste the World - which embodies the best that the world has to offer in terms of food, fashion accessories, home and entertainment. This is further reflected in the international store ambience comprising modern day store fixtures, curving signages to provide visual relief, in-store navigational aids and out-of-the-box in-store communication elements ensuring the best overall shopping experience for the Spencer's consumers.

Speaking at the launch, G. Murali, Vice President, Spencer's, said "The T Nagar store has been enjoying the patronage of our consumers for the past so many years. In fact, this has been one of the best performing stores nationally. With the new international store ambience, wider range and assortment across categories for both domestic and international brands, we are confident of delivering differentiated offerings and experience for our consumers and hence garner further customer loyalty in the years to come."

Apart from the international look and feel, the store now offers a wider range and assortment of merchandize across food and non-food categories, including a broad choice in imported food brands.

The Specialty bays display a select range of international cuisine ingredients (Italian, Chinese, Thai and Mexican) and also cater to the local tastes of the Bengalis and the Gujaratis. A range of organic foods, specialty breads, vegetarian and non-vegetarian take-aways add to the enhanced offerings at the store.

Run 4 a cause...

2008-07-14T20:18:00.002+05:30

The GiveLife Chennai Marathon campaign was effectively launched in the city more than 1000 athletes from Chennai making a flag run in the Marina.

Several Olympians from Tamil Nadu lead the launch run. They include Hockey player Mohammad Riyaz, Basketball player Sunitha Suren and Volleyball player Nataraj.

Today's launch also marks the beginning of an awareness campaign and mini marathon runs in the districts. Encouraging the rural youth to participate in the run remains a key focus of the campaign. Mini runs will take place in Nagarcoil, Trinelveli, Virudunagar, Trichy, Pondichery and Coimbatore.

India's celebrated city runs are Mumbai and Delhi runs. Between 40 - 50 thousand people ran these runs in the last occasions. GiveLife Chennai Marathon aims to inspire around 100000 people to join the City Run, becoming the biggest City Run of India. The launch of the campaign opens the Marathon process effectively from Monday. Registration can be done online at www.givelife-chennaimarathon.com or at designated locations.

The total prize money involved in the GiveLife Chennai Marathon is a fabulous Rs. 65 lacs. This quantum is marginally lesser than the Mumbai and Delhi marathons and certainly, the highest so far for any run conducted in South India. The first prize for the professional Marathon in both Men & Women category separately is Rs. 10 lacs.

"JOIN THE HUMAN RACE" is the campaign base line. World over long distance runs are better known actually for reasons other than running.

It is GiveLife Chennai Marathon, wanting to be India's biggest and South India�s richest run. But more importantly the run itself will be a message. A message reflecting true essence of human spirit and existence :

For more information, the public can call Goodwill Communications office 24994344, 24980201, 24990201. Registration fee is Rs.100.

TV row in Tamilnadu takes new turn

2008-07-10T18:11:00.000+05:30

The war between the DMK and Maran brothers seems to be taking some intriguing turns, as Murasoli, the mouthpiece of the ruling party, on Thursday carried a big rejoinder to the ‘gossipy’ allegations made on Arasu Cable TV Corporation by Dinakaran, a daily owned by the Marans.

On the front page itself, Murasoli published a feature titled ‘Peter Mamavum, Meter Mamiyum’ on the lines of ‘Peter Mama’, a chatty grapevine column in Dinakaran, in which the charges were made on Wednesday.

Without mentioning any names directly, the Maran’s daily alleged that a top official of a recently launched channel (going by the hints dropped, it should be Sarath Reddy of Kalaignar TV) pressurised the authorities of Arasu Cable TV Corporation to buy equipment from a particular company, for which a huge amount of money was transferred to his bank account.

It also alleged that another honcho of the television channel was also involved in it.

To this, Murasoli has replied that no such transaction was made and all purchases were carried out after going through proper tender notifications and procedures.

‘Will any company pay Rs 12 crore as commission for a sale worth Rs 16 crore?’ it questioned.

The DMK’s organ also came down heavily on Maran brothers with a couple of strongly worded sentences.

Also, sources say that there may be a new but quiet camaraderie emerging between former foes, AIADMK leader, J Jayalalithaa, and brothers Kalanidhi and Dayanidhi Maran.

While Karunanidhi’s family’s members are busy in a cable war with the Marans, Jayalalithaa has quietly found her way into the newsrooms of Sun TV channel and Dinakaran.

Jayalalithaa’s smiling visage routinely pops up on the Sun TV news these days and news editors of Dinakaran have stopped trashing her daily missives against the DMK government.

Her anti-Karunanidhi statements are not only given prominent coverage but are always accompanied by her photographs.

The Sun News channel, too, telecasts her photograph and carefully lists the main points in her statements, mostly targetting the DMK government.

It has to be noted that Jayalalithaa’s name barely found mention in the newspaper or the channel, except when she came under Karunanidhi’s attack at the peak of Dayanidhi Maran’s brief, high profile political career.

These days, her scathing criticism against the DMK regime is an almost daily item on Sun and Dinakaran.

PitStop @ ECR Restaurant Review

2008-07-09T19:24:00.000+05:30

A long drive and a break to fill your tummy! That's exactly why this restaurant could have been started. Pitstop, a restaurant in the East coast road has it all ambience, different eatery variety, and of course its ECR status. East coast road is that stretch which offers food of any origin to its patrons by having umpteen restaurants of different cuisine offerings.

Pitspot has to be remembered for three basic reasons: the self service method, its fruit juice and chocolate fountain section and of course the d�cor with an onyx chess board and a tall clock. Visiting Pitspot during the mid afternoon times (not for lunch though) will prove to be a worth while experience. The unique selling point of the restaurant is flat screen television which now if fixed on to telecast only the IPL Matches.

This place belongs to the category of restaurants which promotes spending quality time with friends and relatives than offering great food. Some small time snacks like French fries and onion rings can be ordered and that can easily qualify as starters for the snacking agenda. Apart from burgers one can opt for the variety of chicken combination which is on the card. One must definitely try out a dip of cake in the chocolate fountain they have. Pitstop also offers good juice varieties. If not for the taste but for the way it is made, cleanliness has to bee appreciated.

The highlight of the restaurant is the see through kitchen and juice making areas. The restaurant authorities have maintained a spic and span area on and off the kitchen area. The service is laudable. The person at the billing counter was even courteous enough to suggest few items.

But as usual like in other restaurants, the delivery of order takes a long time; ask them the reason; you will receive the same 'it's getting ready sir' reply. Food can not be the reason for you to visits this place as the food is below average but the ambience wins all the accolades. Typical by road restaurant which promises to provide memorable time for visitors!

PitStop
No 1, Before Toll Plaza Panaiyur,
East Coast Road,
Sholinganallur, Chennai - 600119
+(91)-(44)-24531999

Chennai latest buzz

2008-07-09T18:32:00.000+05:30

City's Street Names - Past and Present

Cities all over the world have had their roots, in some way or the other, associated with the names of their busiest roads and Chennai is no different! Try these names- First Line Beach Road, Mowbrays Road, Edward Elliott's Road, - remember them? These are the old names of what are now Dr. Rajaji Salai, TTK Road, and Radhakrishnan Salai. The post-independence Indian governments made it their business to replace the street names from the British era with Indian names and nobody is complaining!

However, it can't be denied either that there are certain names that have proved quite difficult in getting replaced- they simply refuse to go away, even though the change has officially occurred. The most renowned example would be that of Mount Road which technically is Anna Salai now. Even though the name in name took place decades ago, many Chennaiites still swear by the original name, 'Mount Road'. "I think I'll never get over calling Mount road Mount road, because that was how it was introduced to me and first impressions are hard to get over!", said Mrs.Sugantha, who has lived in the city all her life.

Lattice Bridge Road in Adyar (LB Road) is now Kalki Krishnamoorthy Road,while the famous Chamiers Road is Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar Salai- both failures as far as name change is concerned. But topping this list would be Nungambakkam High Road which was rechristened to Uthamar Gandhi Salai, a name that never made any impact at all. Bharthi, an engineering student from the city had this to say when asked about Nungambakkam High Road's 'official' name: "I don't think I've ever heard anyone call Nungambakkam High Road with its official name! If I asked an auto driver to take me to that road, he would probably get confused and ask me which area I wanted to go to!"

If you thought the city's residents were touchy about forgetting the old names of their roads then think once more! When the Tamilnadu government decided to abolish caste names from all road names, some famous ones like, Dr.Renga(chari?) Road, Beemanna (Mudali) Garden, Vellayan (Chettiar) Road and many more, became curiously mutilated. Of course, there were exceptions to this too, in the name of a road in T.Nagar called Dr.Nair Road- making that 'Dr. Road' would have been very confusing. Also, this abolition of caste names was not implemented in North Chennai where you can still find roads being called Linghu Chetty Street, Thambu Chetty Street, Errabulu Chetty Street and so on.

And so, we can finally say it is not an exaggeration when Chennai is called, the city of a splendid mix between the old and the new, for its people definitely don't forget their 'past' easily!