Arasu Cable spreads

Arasu Cable was launched in Madurai, Tirunelveli and Vellore because of which Tirunelveli, Tuticorin, Kanyakumari, Virudhunagar, Ramanathapuram, Madurai and Theni,Vellore, Tiruvannamalai, Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur, Dharmapuri and Krishnagiri will also get feeds from Arasu now. Already Thanjavur, Trichi and Coimabatore are supplying feeds to their near by districts. With this except Chennai Arasu has spread its wing all over Tamilnadu. At present 73 channels are offered in Thanjavur and Coimbatore. 50 channels including pay channels from Zee will be seen in Madurai. 54 free to air channels plus some pay channels in Tirunelveli which will soon be raised to 75. 63 channels for Vellore and adjoining districts.

83 cable operators of vellore have joined Arasu cable. The operators will charge 100 rs and keep 50 rs and pay 50 rs to ACTC. In madurai they will keep 65 and pay 35 to ACC till all important pay channels are also included in the menu.

ACC was currently offering channels using the Analog technology, it would shortly be offering channels through the digital and IP (Internet Protocol) TV technologies as well.

The subscribers would have the option to choose the technology they want. Under the digital option, the viewers were expected to buy set top boxes for viewing the channels.

This would ensure reception of digital video disc (DVD) quality images and compact disc (CD) quality sound.

The IP TV option would enable viewers to view the programmes of the various channels on the computer through the Internet.The ACC would be importing the equipment required for the IP TV transmission from the U.K. and offer this option to the viewers within a month.

While the subscribers could get the signals only through the cable TV operators under the Analog and digital technology options, they could view the channels directly under the IP TV option independent of the cable TV operators.

The analog signal of satellite television channels from Tirunelveli were available in Madurai. Work was on to bring digital signals from Thanjavur. The Arasu Cable Corporation was using Railtel network to transmit the cable signals.

Local cable television channels will also be beamed through the Arasu Cable Corporation, provided they do not broadcast any news bulletins. Cable operators are not permitted to run news bulletins

Will Anna smile for One Rupee?

Now the poorest man's house seems to the richest in Tamilnadu. He has got a colour TV, a gas stove,free land,free nutritious meal for three days a week for pregnant and lactating mothers at all the primary health centres which will work round-the-clock, free meals with eggs in schools for their children, Rice for one Rupee and provisions for 50 Rupees,marriage allowance and debt waiver if farming. They will get a cycle if their children study plus two. They also get free pair of Dresses every Pongal and also free housing in multi storied flats. Of course he has to pay Rs 100 for cable connection and some hundreds for a gas cylinder, if available. There seems to be a permanent sop machinery in this government constantly cooking more and more sops. What next? may be a TVS moped for the next elections? or a Nano?

The latest sop is 20 kgs of rice every month at one rupee per kilo for ration card holders below poverty line. The scheme is a replica of one of the promises of Anna, made during the 1967 election campaign. Anna promised the people of Tamil Nadu that in the event of the DMK forming the government, it would provide PDS rice at Re 1 a measure (approximately equal to 1.4 kg).Announcing the scheme, Karunanidhi said, “The goodwill of Anna for implementing the Padi Arisi Thittam could not be continued decades ago. But, now we have the opportunity to translate his ideal into a reality.

Is it a proud moment for Anna? will he smile in his grave? Is it good that conditions which prevailed in 1967 still exists that makes it mandatory to supply cheap rice for the poor. Why no steps are not taken to eradicate the poverty.

Does this sops makes people lazy and continue to live in poverty?

J Jayalalithaa,the Opposition Leader says “What will people do with one kilo rice? They can’t make rasam, curry or sambhar. They don’t even have gas for cooking. Therefore, Karunanidhi is insulting the people and they are getting agitated. This is the truth.” she also said" earlier good quality of rice was smuggled to other states and now this will only lead to large scale smuggling of PDS rice from ration shops."

PMK leader S Ramadoss criticised the move saying whether the people of Tamil Nadu did not have the capability to purchase rice for even Rs 2 per kg, a scheme that was instrumental in bringing the DMK to power in May 2006. DMDK leader Vijayakant termed the scheme as an "election gimmick".

Stalin said that come election time the Government may even consider giving it free. Seems like Rupee is fast losing its value in Tamilnadu.

The scheme would cover about 1.86 crore ration card holders and would cost an additional Rs 300-Rs 400 crore to the exchequer.The government was already incurring a food subsidy of more than Rs 1,950 crore on food items supplied in fair price shops.

How noble is the 1405 Release

Chief Minister M Karunanidhi said while passing a GO which resulted in release of 1405 Prisoners in Tamilnadu on the eve of Anna's 100Th Birthday: "I have done it only out of kindness. There is nothing else to it."

Not long ago, The Supreme Court had slammed the AP Government for ordering 1500 prisoners and stayed the GO.The apex court has already ruled against using the power of state governments' to grant remission of sentence for various considerations including political ones. With such a ruling already existing I do not understand how a high court in Chennai can rule otherwise. So may be the freedom of those released is short lived?

Among those released are four DMK activists, who were given life term in the sensational murder of a CPM councillor named Leelavathi in 1997. In Andhra the 1500 list included a ruling Congress legislator Charitha Reddy's husband Gouru Venkat Reddy, convicted on charges of culpable homicide not amounting to murder and jailed for 10 years.

The apex court had commented while staying the Andhra GO 'At this rate you might as well release the people involved in the Nithari killings and the Mumbai blasts'

It will be interesting to see how the Tamilnadu government defends this enmasse release in the courts and if the court agrees will the 1500 of Andhra also be released?

Enmasse release of Prisoners are not new in this world and especially Tamilnadu. But this number 1405 is a record even for Dravidian standards. Burma in the 90's released more than 20000 prisoners enmasse because they helped in a government function. China recently reduced sentence of hundreds of prisoners who helped Quake victims. Dubai has provision in their Jails for reduction of up to five years of sentence if the Jail mates memorize some quantum of the Koran.

When a court decides on the quantum of a sentence it is obvious that it gives ample consideration to the sensitivity of the victims and the morale of the police and also mainly the society's interests and safeguards. If the Quantum is reduced by a Legislative order is it not mandatory for them to take responsibility for any future offence if any committed by those released. Also what about the Victims and the feeling of their families. And mainly what about the morale of the police?

If a person is given a quantum of sentence say five years is he expected to come out clean after that or is it just to keep him away for so long and wait till he commit an offence later to put him in again? Is it common sense to assume that those sentenced to Life are dangerous or habitual offenders who the court while giving sentence would have reasons to feel that they are a menace to the society?

On the other hand what if they really get reformed in the jail much before their sentence ends? And what if they are aged and are perceived as not dangerous any more.
Kiran bedi while incharge of Tihar Jail had shown the world how prisons can be a school for learning and how reform of prisoners is essential for them to make a living and avoid habitual crime. In fact all prisons in India should follow her example and let the prisoners reform and live a decent life. In Saudi they teach even terrorists and if they are found reformed, they reward them with a Car, a job and help them enter the mainstream.

In India we assume that once a person commits a crime he will always remain an offender and this stigma and ostracation makes these prisoners lead a underground life even after a release. I read profiles of some the released prisoners and feel they deserve to be released. We should give them a chance especially if they have truely reformed.

But can we trust the politician who has inked the order? I am not meaning the CM but anyone because politicians are perceived as prejudiced and such releases also give scope for partiality.

There are nearly 18298 inmates in Tamilnadu Jails. Are there only 1405 inmates who were in the deserve list or is it that many were ignored for biased reasons?

To be seen correct the Government has announced that those who are habitual offenders, those held for offences under the Explosive Substances Act, Arms Act and communal violence, those sentenced to capital punishment and subsequently reduced to life sentence would not be eligible for release.All life-convicts over the age of 60, who have completed five years in prison, have been ordered to be released by the Tamil Nadu government.

If this can inspire more of the inmates to behave well and be reformed why stop it?

Soodana Sneha

Sneha popular Tamil actress got angry because Raj TV had used her photo in a press meet and announced a new program called Soodana Sneha which was hinted as a chat show with Sneha as an anchor.

Raj TV is launching a whole new package of prime time programmes with new formatting to increase viewership. These programmes vary from reality shows to mythologicals, Hollywood movies, interactive game shows, celebrity chat shows and kids shows.

Starting from September 22nd, the channel will have a new line up of programs. Top Singer, a music show, will be a platform for budding singers to showcase their talent. Raj TV also will also bring Hollywood movies dubbed in Tamil every weekend. Parisu Pathaayiram is a game show, to entertain housewives who have a chance to win Rs 10,000 worth of prizes every day.

The other programmes include Mahabharatham, Om Aadi Parasakthi, Nagamma, Super Star Hunt, Soodana Sneha and The Women of Today. The last named, a variety show exclusively for women, will give insights, advice and tips on everything a woman wants to know.

BUT SNEHA DENIED ANY PLAN TO MOVE TO TELEVISION. She said "For reasons best known to a Tamil satellite television channel, my name and photographs have been used for a chat show with which I have absolutely nothing to do at all. The motive seems mischievously sinister"

Trouble arose Saturday when Raj TV distributed pamphlets about a forthcoming show entitled "Soodana Sneha" to reporters.An image of the actress sans a caption or other indications of her participation set tongues wagging that she might be turning to television as well.

The Mumbai-born actress of Telugu origins expressed shock.

"The channel had no business to do this to me. It is surely the handiwork of a few disgruntled elements who want to tarnish my name simply because I opted out of projects for personal reasons," said Sneha, who has acted in films like "Vasool Raja MBBS" and "April Madhathil"

Is this a controversy or a Publicity stunt?

Kalaignar TV Birthday

On September 15Th 2007, Kalaignar TV started its official telecast. Within months after a family split with Sun Network, Kalaignar TV used its mega influence to get all the necessary rights and equipment and started a new channel named after the Cm's pet title.

September 15Th is the Birthday of Anna and it was also Vinayakar Chaturthi yesteryear. Today it is the 100Th Birthday of Anna and also the 60Th marriage anniversary of Kalaignar. And today is the first anniversary of Kalaignar TV. But may be considering of clouding of other mega occasions this anniversary is not celebrated loudly by the channel. Today you see a couple of movies one being the super duper hit parthiveeran and a live telecast of a poetic event organised for Anna birthday, chaired by the CM and participated by the best of the poets and lyricists of the state at five PM today are the highlights of Kalaignar TV menu today.

It started very well. It roped in many anchors and producers of Sun network.Sharath Kumar, once a close friend of Sun TV MD Kalathi Maran is the MD of Kalaignar Tv since its inception. They also acquired movie rights of many popular hits of the time like Sivaji, Dasavatharam, Kuselan, Mozhi, Guru, Ayutha elluthu, Arasangam etc. They screened Mozhli in the first day. Mozhi was a well acclaimed movie and a pretty recent one last year. Many popular TV production houses were roped in to produce serials. Bharathiraja the famous movie director made his fist TV mega serial for kalignar TV, which is still on. Illiayaraja made music for this , a first for TV by him. Mannada Myulada is the Only program which features now and then in the Top 100 all TVR rating from this channel. A reality talent show anchored by Master Kala is a super hit. It is now in its second season. Popular Actresses Kushboo and Rambha are co judges for the show. In the earlier season it was Namitha and Simran. Another Talent show Attam Pattam again from the Kala house is doing pretty well. Ajith's first Interview after a long gap came in Kalaignar TV. The magic show in the channel is still popular.

Most of the rights to telecast events featuring Filmi actors went to Kalaignar TV last year. On November 4Th 2007 there was a interesting Tiff in display between Sun and Kalaignar. Kalaignar TV had the rights for telecasting Tamilnadu state film awards in which Kalaignar, Rajinikanth and Kamal were present. But Sun TV suddenly telecasted it on that Sunday. Kalaignar Tv retaliated by screening Ghilli a movie slotted by Sun Tv for Diwali 2007. But after an hour Sun stopped its telecast followed by an abrupt end in the middle of Ghilli by Kalaignar Tv.

Kalaignar TV started a 24 hours music channel called IsaiAruvi in January 2008 and has announced that it will start three more channels shortly one for news, another for Kids and the other for Comedy. With in days of this announcement Sun TV sprang a surprise by launching a Comedy sevai in its DTH.

Kalaignar TV started well but Sun still rules. The last week TVR Ratings show 28 of its programs in the Top 100 of India. And no other Tamil Channel has any in the Top 100. One of reason may be that Kalaignar TV looks like a clone of Sun TV and may be the audience prefer the Original Sun.

In Tamilnadu almost all main stream parties have a channel of their own. Vijayakanth is about to start Captain TV and the communists are also planning their own channel. Congress has two, AiADMK one and Makkal has one. Thirumavalavan also has a channel. Unlike the other party channels there are very less socially relevant content in Kalaignar TV. Most programs are commercial and the menu looks more or less copied from Sun ditto by ditto.

In spite of production by famous houses and acted by popular artistes the serials in Kalaigner Tv are faring below expectations and is losing out to competition. They altered the timings and cut short many serials clearly giving out the fact that they are not faring well.

The ex friend and now foe Ramdoss whose Makkal TV is acclaimed for its being Different has this to say about Kalaignar TV- “I expected that the channel would be like Makkal TV. But Kalaingar TV’s offering is as rubbish as other channels offer; even worse,”

One year is a short time to judge anything. May be this year will be better. For the first year it has reasonably done well. It is now seen almost all over India, Srilanka, Gulf and Europe . It is also in talks for telecast in Asia pacific Canada and USA. More channels are also coming and Elections are near by. So more eyeballs and Trp's may be waiting.

But competition is also heating up. Almost all channels are continuously reviewing and trying new programs and many more channels are in the anvil like Zee tamil, Captain TV etc.

Sun Rises in the West

Sun DTH has ventured out of South India. It has started its services in Gujarat offering 130 channels at 990 RS for a ten month period. It also offers 20 Top up options and also promises HDTV soon. It charges Rs 1000 for Installation.

Sun DTH started in Janauary 2008 and at present caters to the Southern states- Tamilnadu, Kerala, Andhra and Karnataka. It fetched 1.4 million subscribers by August and hopes to cross 2 million by this year end. It will start in Punjab within the next 40 days and gradually cover all over India.

Sun DTH will invest 150 crores for this expansion. Sun network has also ventured in to Film Production and has recently announced name of its future films. One of its forthcoming film's audio is already selling like hot cakes and its song Nakku Mukka is played everywhere. Atlantic Cinema’s Kadhalil Vizhinde will be its first release.

The division is working on four other films, including two Jeeva films, Thenavattu and Siva Manasille Sakthi; Sundar C’s Thee and Narain’s Pookada Ravi.

With a target of at least five films every month, Sun Pictures is hoping that this initiative will open a new revenue stream for the company, in addition to increasing the size of its vast movie library.

Political Vendetta?- Sun Booked

The Arasu Cable is struggling in the dark because of no "sun". This is well known now. They have approached TDSAT and hearing is on 24Th October. Many Cable Operators are finding it difficult without Sun or telecasting it by Illegal Tapping of Sun. The Marans have shown their might and a helpless administration is trying unholy methods to pin Sun. 

Chennai Police have registered an FIR against Sun's Raja who is their News editor. He is seen as the main person who gave tough times for Kalaignar TV during its inception. The provocation is because of repeated telecast of Muslim vehement opposition to an article published in a Tamil Daily Dinamalar. 

Recently one operator of Dinamalar Vellore edition in the print version had inadvertently downloaded a cartoon from you tube website pertaining to article regarding websites for computer malar supplement. It is a mistake, which was acknowledged and DINAMALAR had published an apology. But Dinamalar's complaint is Sun TV kept on airing this incident even after the apology causing damage to its interest. 

That Dinamalar erred is a fact. In fact It's Website is blocked in UAE after this publication. Of course it may be because of a single person but then the error was commited and why will the rivals keep quiet. What is the expiry date for any news? Is it a law that a news should not be published or telecast if an apology has been sought?

Any news or cartoon insulting any one's faith or belief is wrong according to me. But recently Supreme Court ruled that it is OK to paint Bharat Mata naked because it is an art by MFH. So why Law should see only this as inflammatory and not when about Hindu goddess?

Dinamalar is a decent publication and has a good viewership. It has a separate web page for Islam where it quotes Islam and hence benefit of doubt should be granted to them. It looks like a genuine error and in fact many Muslim organisations in the state have accepted its apology. But such a thing happened is news and why should someone question the wisdom of a television channel to analyse this news at a later date which is usual practice in all channels. And there is no visible evidence that that telecast created communal disharmony. Dinamalar is a rival of Sun Network and for ages it has been planting articles against them and SCV and their monopoly. It has been a open supporter of Arasu Cable, so why will Sun lie down when they get a chance to give it back is the moot question.

It is hence quite obvious that the case is motivated. To counter this Sun quickly sent Raja to hiding and took away the blame from him and announced that Murosoli Selvam, is the Chief editor and he is responsible for all news. He is the son in law of the CM and brother of Murosoli Maran. It was expected that this announcement will dilute the case but the Government has been firm in its motive and has summoned him on September 15Th. Case has been booked under sections 153A and 505-2. The former section deals with promoting enmity between groups on basis of religion, race etc and doing act prejudicial to maintenance of harmony.The other section deals with making/publishing statements with an intention to incite violence against any other community or class.

In Fact after the case many more magazines and television channel have further highlighted this news. Will they also be booked?

THERE IS ALWAYS DRAMA IN TAMILNADU.

Source: Kumudam Reporter, Nakkeran and Television Point.

Stop Terror Freak Out

One more series and that too in the capital. The terror group is proudly claiming that it has successfully completed its B.A.D mission.[ Bangalore, then Ahmadabad and now Delhi]and it claims it is to avenge the demolition of Babri Masjid which happened in 1993. Who are these nitwits? Are they learning English the bombing way and if so what a word to start with?

Why do some use bombs? Terrorism is a calculated act of political violence intended to create maximum public disruption and response. The ultimate aim is psychological intimidation -- to create an environment in which people no longer feel safe. And more than the terrorists, the Irresponsible Indian media is aiding them in their mission. They simply freak out with images, interviews and past history, have group discussions, big fights and concentrate on winning TRP competition.

In any newspaper of India there will be very large bold word, as a headline usually a fancy and catchy one announcing the blasts and then some photos and statistics and timings all in colour. But then they dilute it with other news in the same page and in other pages. Normally one of the inside pages will be fully dedicated to such an event and may be an editorial after a day or two. That's all. I am of an opinion that this itself is too much. The best way to tackle Indian terror is to look the other way and carry a big stick. A small column in the bottom of the first page and may be some articles on how to tackle future terror should be the best response.

Television Freak out

It looks like the editors of Indian Television channels cherish any Terror attack. Today Television is the most powerful media and Terrorists design their mission to utilize their services,it seems. Immediately after a terror attack they run around with their cameras and show us as much muck as possible almost glorifying the perpetrators.Then they interview some media hungry politicians who start blaming the other. Then they supplement it with some news hours discussing what is wrong and who is to be blamed. Then to top it all they hold discussions on some pota or sita. They carry this for a week and then there is a lull only to follow by some other bomb somewhere else.

Let some TV guild order all channels to stop airing any Terror event for not more than ten minutes after the event and with in a year these Terrorists will vanish.

Political Freak out

Immediately after the Gujarat Blasts, some irresponsible Congress politicians like Thangabalu,Rajiv Shukla etc blamed BJP for the dismal state of affairs. BJP led by Sushma claimed it was a hand of Congress and used conspiracy theory. The Union Minister of State Jaiswal after each attack claims Law and Order is state subject and that the state was informed.

Now all these politicians are in the hiding. Does Thangabalu or Rajiv have any thing to say about the blasts in Delhi, the capital that too on a day when the CWC meeting was on.

Delhi was forewarned by Gujarat Police about the B.A.D or B.A.C.K mission and they were suppose to be on alert. So now they say it is an attack on the nation blah blah. Where was this wisdom when Terror struck Opposition ruled states.

Actually Terror anywhere in the country is a war on the nation and I compliment Advani for using these words instead of starting some blame game. Politicians should not compliment the Terrorists by using the event to earn future votes. They should instead concentrate on how to tackle them in future. Every state should have an anti terror political wing comprising of all parties who should guide the administration. Involving all parties will eventually cut the temptation to take credit or blame and their competitive spirit may give rise to some innovative and new methods to tackle terror.

The need of the hour is Tougher laws. Call it by some other name like sita etc if you do not like the name pota. The pretext that even when pota was around terror was flourishing is foolish. In spite of so many laws murders and rapes are increasing day by day. So do we throw the laws to dust bin? There is also a reasoning that pota may be misused. Tell me one law in India which is not misused. So even this argument has no value. Try to minimize misuse by adding some sub clause here and there but bring tough laws.

Compassion is also a tool to eradicate terror. Tackling terror at its roots is possible and worth an attempt. But it is a long term process and will take years. But an all party committee should be set up in center to do this. Hand some reward for informers and those who help should be offered. Terrorists should be given chance for reform.Saudi Arabia runs a sophisticated campaign to rehabilitate terrorists inside its jails. Prisoners are brought before religious scholars who point out their erroneous interpretation of Islam.If judged rehabilitated, ex-terrorists are rewarded with their freedom, a car and a job.

Involving more Muslims in policing should also help. Also moderate Muslims should be encouraged to share information with government. The politician- Terror nexus should be handled and such elements should be shown no mercy. Speedy justice system and strict control on all exit and entry points should be implemented. And above all the Intelligence system should be put in place. CCTV surveillance cameras should be installed in as many numbers in all sensitive and busy areas. And of course they must be monitored 24X7 365 days a year. And above all, the corruption in all sensitive departments especially the passport and id issuing offices should be eradicated.

Well even if all this takes long time the quick solution is Stop the freak out and see the difference.

Obviously I mean what I write and so no photos with this article.

DEBATE Does TV encourage Child labour?

Recently there was an article in a Chennai evening daily Newstoday about how TV encourages child labour. Written by Shanti rajendran it says that "The television industry is transforming itself into a employer for child labourers, under the guise of conducting reality shows that involve teenagers and young children" The provocation for the article was an episode of the selection process for Kana kanum kalangal being aired in Vijay Tv. In one of this episode, the host asked a teenager to propose to a girl, to test his acting prowess. The teenager could not do it well and the host who happens to be a famous TV anchor did it for him.[Vijay adhiraj]. This according to the author Quote: evoked a sense of disgust among TV viewers, as it was found highly incompatible for the age of the participant.

Moreover, viewers were shocked to see kids who attended this selections dressed in garish and revealing outfits. While a quiz competition or a music contest may be right for their age, mimicking actors and imitating actresses, in the way of dressing is highly irritating and repulsive to watch.

It makes one mindful of the predicament these youngsters are pushed into and the keen negative competition that is being imposed vehemently on them. unquote.

She also writes about super singer because of which self confidence of many are shattered. See her article here.

Children In TV- World Over

Children serials in Television are as old as Television. Expression and practice of Art is not labour. And it is ageless. Every human right from their birth has the right to be a part of it. So I do not see any of this under the category of Child Labour. Any serial depicting life of children obviously have to enrol them as actors. Any commercial targeting children can have them as actors. But all this should be controlled and monitored to avoid any excesses or pitfalls. A child as an actor has many more psychological and physical pressures than a normal child. Also it is a case of over exposure to the good and bad of both real and reel life which if not properly monitored can lead the child to go astray. Also many children tend to compromise on their education mainly because of the lure of money and fame and the requirement of long working hours to attain them.

Some people also criticize the parents of child actors for allowing their children to work, believing that more “normal” activities should be the staple during the childhood years.Others observe that competition is present in all areas of a child’s life—from sports to student newspaper to orchestra and band—and believe that the work ethic instilled, or the talent developed accrues to the child’s benefit.The child actor may experience unique and negative pressures when working under tight production schedules. Large projects which depend for their success on the ability of the child to deliver an effective performance add to the pressure. Also many children find transition to non acting when they grow up difficult. Many child actors fail to become actors when big. Also some go the path of self destruction.

Recently there was a reality show in USA called I Know My Kids A Star, where Ten child/parent teams from all across the country competed to win a chance to meet casting agents, Hollywood insiders, receive national television exposure, and $50,000 in prize money. The winner was a girl-mother team. The program however also nakedly revealed the parents pressure on children and how they tend to see their failed success in their children.

Many countries have strict laws governing child acting.New York state labor officials fined organizers of "American Idols Live Tour '07" for violating child labor laws by letting underage teens perform without permits. Employers who use child performers are required to register with the state so they can be monitored as to whether they're complying with child labor, education and workers' compensation regulations. The Organizers were fined 5000 Dollars for failing to get the proper permits to hire and feature certain Teen actors.

In some countries child actors in the performing arts (television, film or stage) are prohibited from doing certain things. In these countries, a child actor may not:
1. Risk his or her physical well-being (no dangerous stunts)
2. Be exposed to morally compromising situations
3. Be nude or partially nude
4. Engage in overt sexual acts
5. Be victims of any kind
Compulsory education laws mandate that the education of child actor not be disrupted while the child is working. Whether a child actor is enrolled in public school, private school, or home school, the child does schoolwork under the supervision of a set teacher while on the set.
Finally, the hours a child actor may work are limited. Generally, stricter time limits are imposed for younger actors. A very young infant might be allowed "under the lights" only a few minutes a day.

The Scenario Here

The Children of India like else where have many options in the box. Popular children specific channels like Jetix, Pogo, Disney, Cartoon network etc rule the roost here. And now we have regional kids channel which are giving the world channels a run for their money. The classic example is our own Chutti Tv. Kalaignar Tv is also about to start a kids channel. Normaly most of the channels are packed with cartoons and action thrillers. Some quizzing, game shows and reality bites are also there. And some of the serials hook the children, like Suite life of Zack & Cody , Hannah Montana, That's so Raven, High school Musicals,Power Rangers etc.

Children are still a minority among the Television viewers any where. But that they require their own stuff was well identified by the channels here. Vijay TV the most innovative in Tamil Channels introduced Kana kanum Kalangal a serial widely admired and watched by the children of Tamilnadu. They also have many talent shows like Super Singer etc aiming to entice child and teen viewers. The Success of KKK is mainly because it almost depicts a real life scenario of our neighbourhood school here. They added some emotion, drama and fun to make it more interesting to watch. Today many adults also watch this regularly. It should be seen as a positive step. The actors in KKK have become houldhold names and some have won accolades in other competitions too. There isn't more of any kid love than those depicted in the foriegn serials and nor are there any uncomfortable or avoidable scenes. Neither is there any cultural erosion. So why the big fuss about Child Labor etc?

Children of today are more matured and do not get easily influenzed. So to imagine that a depiction of a Love proposal is going to influenze them in their way of such proposals or to act as shown are half truths. This is not something which does not happen in our schools. Neither are they going to increase because it is on TV. Nor will they decrease if they aren't in TV.

However some kind of rules or guidelines as they exist in other countries should be here too to avoid any discomforts among Children and Parents here. More and more of children channels and programs are on the anvil. So the need for such guidelines. The ambiguity now prevailing and the total freedom in the content of such programs indeed give space for exploitation and misuse. Children are our future. It is hence imperative to have proper system in the most powerful media of today.

Anna Anna Nee ellatha edamee ellai

It is sort of carnival time in Tamilnadu. There are over a dozen parties claiming Dravidian protector status and it is the 100th birthday of Arignar Anna the first chief minister of Dravidian rule. DMK, Aiadmk, Mdmk etc are arranging special meetings, shows, events, contests, live programs etc to bring in more admirers.

The Founder of DMK will find himself all over in Kalaignar Tv atleast on September 15th, his 100th birthday. The highlight will be a program called "Anaya Villakku" at 5.00 pm on September 15th. he show features a poetic presentation on the leader by some of the renowned poets. The event, organised as part of the 100th birth anniversary of Annadurai, will be presided over by M.Karunanidhi, chief minister of Tamil Nadu.

Lyricists Vaali, Abdul Rahman, Vairamuthu, Metha, Rev. Fr.Vincent Chinnadurai and Thamizhachi Thangapandian will participate.

A must see program for Tamil literature lovers.

With rumours afloat that she may contest Loksabha election from Theni,She is addressing a public meeting in Theni on September 14 to mark the beginning of the year-long centenary celebrations of Arignar Anna. Jayalalitha said her party saw for itself a bigger role at the national level after the polls. Excerpts of this meeting will be in time on September 15th in Jaya tv.

Mdmk's Vaiko is holding a meeting in Madurai and he hopes the proposed zonal conference of the party in Madurai on September 15 would mark a turning point in the history of Dravidian movement

A Catty rival

The trial run of a new channel named CAT[ Cable Art Television] is on Hathway and may also find place in Arasu. This is started by a group of cable operators who are in ire with the Sun group.

CAT is attempting to take on Sun DTH with a veritable mix of film songs and scenes but don’t carry an extra USP.

There are many local channels all over Tamilnadu as in other states and almost all of them do not have proper license. It is however not illegal for an MSO to transmit them who get good carriage fees. In fact most of these channels exhibit new films obviously under copyright violation. So may be it will not be ethical for an Government run MSO to carry them. May be CAT is an attempt to regularize and a conglomerate of all local channels which is not a bad idea. But when they get license they cannot violate rules and hence will have to compete against the giants.Will local news be enough to get them the TRP?

According to Kayal Ilavarasu, president, Tamizhaga Cable TV Urimaiyalargal Sangam, ‘at a time when we are fighting for our survival from the onslaught of DTH, we needed a cogent and cohesive arm to take on the rivals’.

‘CAT is an attempt to interact with our customers directly and educate them on TV Network. It ate away the local channels run by us. They threatened to cut signals if we continued to run the channels. However things have changed drastically and today we have regained our self-esteem thanks to the operator-friendly State government’.

Some cable operators expressed their displeasures at these developments. They feel that they are unnecessarily being made pawns in the on-going war between the Marans (owners of Sun TV Network) and the family of Chief Minister M Karunanidhi.

According to Newstoday, A prominent cable operator, on condition of anonymity, said, `With technological developments, no doubt there would threat for any business. But venturing to fight giants like Sun TV Network is no good.'

As per Newstoday, Rumours are agog that a prominent State Minister is instrumental in the floating of the local cable channel predominantly against the launch of Sun DTH facilities. A few operators allege his hand in the entire episode cannot be denied.

One more indication that may be Tamilnadu will become the first state to have a Minister for Television, soon.

No Sun for Arasu!

Sun TV, Star TV and Sony network received notices from TDSAT yesterday and are given Three weeks to reply. The hearing is on 24Th October 2008. So till then Arasu cable will not have Sun in its menu. Even on 24Th October, if TDSAT ruling for RCV is any indication it might convene a meeting between the warring parties at a later date and ask them to resolve matters amicably. Zee is giving feed only in Thanjavur and not in Coimbatore and Trichi. All these Four are very popular among masses and it is obvious that they hear to their business logic. But Arasu cable has mentioned in its petition that this is their greatest sin. Against Sun they have noted that “It appears, on the face of it, that the recalcitrant and difficult attitude of the respondent is because of the popularity of the TV programme of the respondent in Tamil Nadu. The respondent is exploiting that popularity to the extent that statutory provisions for grant of signal are being violated, and is being unreasonable and discriminatory in denying the signals. There is a strong belief that the delay in processing the request of signals by the respondent is with a Mala fide intention to promote its DTH business"

It is no secret that both the private RCV and the Government run Arasu cable are started only to damage the Sun network's interest and hence to blame them for non cooperation is laughable. Both RCV and ACTVC are only indulging in Monopoly shift and are in no way erasing Monopoly which is the main plank for the origin of a government run MSO.

RCV had filed a similar petition against Channel plus the distributor of Sun network in July which was settled after a meeting convened by TDSAT on 31st July. But on 15Th August RCV again approached TDSAT ,this time crying that Sun is not giving feed for suburbs of Madurai. Sun's contention is that this will mean additional subscribers and hence additional fee. After two hearings this is again listed for 25Th September.

SO IF ARASU GOES AHEAD WITH ITS PLANNED SEPTEMBER 15Th START OF SERVICES IN CHENNAI, MADURAI AND TIRUNELVELI AND AGAIN AS IN OTHER PLACES MANAGES POLITICALLY TO ROPE IN CABLE OPERATORS THESE CITIES MAY NOT SEE SUN FOR ATLEAST TWO MONTHS. IF POPULAR OPINION IS ANY CONCERN FOR THIS PEOPLE'S GOVERNMENT THEN IT SHOULD DEFER LAUNCH OF SERVICE TILL THIS MATTER IS SETTLED OTHERWISE IT WILL MEAN ACTING AGAINST THE WILL OF PEOPLE at least that will be the accusation of all opposition parties and why not.

RCV has claimed that more than 90% of the cable operators in Madurai are with them. Whether they came on there own or by intimidation is another issue but the fact is a new monopoly has emerged here. And more in other areas are also in the anvil. So it will be interesting to see what is Arasu's strategy in Madurai. Will it rope in Cable operators with the same vigour which it exhibited in other areas where the 'son' is absent or will it allow the absence of sun to favour the son.

If Arasu ropes in considerable operators in the metropolis and if Sun is absent for a longer period then this might also result in more churning and many may shift to DTH. Sun DTH is offering a new comedy service and it is also facing big competition from Big TV. Tata Sky has announced a new offer.

May be soon we will have a Minister for Television in Tamilnadu.

Smart Sun Laughs 24 hours

A new Channel Comedy Thirai was launched today exclusive for Sun DTH customers. It is available in channel 105 and is only for sun DTH customers. No other DTH or cable TV can have access to it. This was started from today 12 am.

Kalaignar TV had announced last month end that it will soon come with three more channels exclusively for News[ seithikal], Comedy[sirupuoli] and kids[chithirai-cartoon].The Network has also chalked out aggressive plans to ramp up capacity and expand its presence across the globe, especially in the US, Canada, Singapore and Malaysia.

A very swift response from Sun network and it has superseded Kalignar in being the first to introduce an exclusive comedy channel. But when Kalaignar Tv starts its comedy channnel and if it is a FTA channel it may not have competition in Cable network and other DTH. In fact Tatasky and Dish may also take it without any carriage fees as it will be essential for them to outwit this new sun dth weapon. As for whether sun can deny permission for other MSO's and DTH, TRAI should answer and it will only when someone raises an objection. DTH operators can offer service on demand and they all do so . May be Sun will take this route for a satisfactory answer to TRAI. SEE THE ABOVE ADVERTISEMENT, IT MENTIONS 24 HOURS COMEDY SEVAI[SERVICE] AND NOT COMEDY CHANNEL. It is also mentioned in very minute letters in the bottom that it is a video on demand and is free for three months.

However Business sense suggests that just before Kalignar makes a formal announcement of their channel, Sun may give feed to Cable and other DTH also and till then only Sun DTH customers will be privileged.

Vijay's magic spell

Vijay TV is at it again. Famous for its innovative and fresh programs they are going to start yet another from Tomorrow.

"Ran India Mayalogam" is a series with a dash of magic along with a splash of celebrities, where popular magicians across the country get to perform in the same stage.

Mayalogam is ruled by a pompous but skinny Raja Nakimukki. He is accompanied by his bulbous Rani Minnal Idaiyal who is engrossed with her own beauty with an unquenchable desire to be entertained. They are always accompanied by their dwarf ministers who try their best to entertain the Queen, but fail to do the same.

Apasara Mayakani, the story teller comes to their rescue every week by kidnapping some of the best magicians from the real world to showcase their acts to liven Mayalogam.

The magician's stage is situated in the style of a Raja Durbar where much to the delight of the audience some of the most spectacular acts of magic like illusion, conjuring, mental-magic, electronic magi, close-up and escape acts will be performed.

Popular magicians like Acharya - known for his Great Indian Rope Trick; Samraj - a popular illusionist who is versatile in Magic with Lights; Alex - Holds Guiness Record and 2 Limca Records for Magic; Atul - a conjuring specialist; Jammu - popular for Close-up and mental magic are some of the performers who will be performing in this grand stage. Even female magicians like Poornima, is kidnapped from the real world to entertain Rani Minnal Idaiyal.

The role of Raja Nakimukki and Rani Minnal Idaiyal is played by Actor Balaji and Actress Asha. Kavitha plays the role of Apsara Mayakani.

Every week a spoof is created where Rani Minnal Idaiyal is entertained in a humorous way in "Ran India Mayalogam".

The magic is set to begin from September 07, 2008, Sundays, 10am on Vijay TV!

The Seventh Simran

The seventh serial of Simran Thirai will start from Monday. Telecast every week day from 8.30 to 9.00 pm in Jaya Tv, this time it will be Nettrikan. So far there has been six serials as follows

1.Vannathu Poochi cast:Simran, Raghav, Mohan Ram
2.Anuvum Naanum cast:Simran, Prem Sai, Baby Praharshitha
3.Naerukku Naer cast:Simran,Subhalekha Sudhakar, Rishi, Shrinivas, Aishwarya, Latha Rao, Maran and Azhagu
4.Dharmayudham cast:Simran, YG Mahendiran, Sulakshna
5.Navavelli cast:Simran, Poovilangu Mohan, O.A.K.Sundar, Subbulaxmi
6.Kannamoochi Re Re cast:Simran, Ramji, Brinda Das, Chethan, Rajasekhar, Amarasigamani, Sangeetha.

Women are believed or rather upheld to be all encompassing beings who can adjust, accommodate and adapt to every change in life. But it remains a question whether the same can be said of men.

In “Nettrikkkann” Simran essays the role of Kala, a young woman who gets pushed in to a situation to marry a man of her parent’s choice despite having a lover. After the initial haranguing Kala realises her husband’s goodness and adapts to the new found life. As a happy life ensues Kala’s ex-lover enters the scene - but as a mentally disturbed patient and Kala’s husband is assigned to cure him.

An emotional battle follows as Dr. Shiva comes face to face with his own wife’s ex-lover. Will Dr. Shiva cure him? If not what will Kala’s stand be if her ex-lover is not cured? “Nettrikkan” would be an eye-opener to reveal how today’s woman is able to face the extraordinary situations in life in spite of her being referred as the weaker sex.

The cast includes Simran, Abhishek, Saakshi Shiva, Sivan Srinivasan, Nithya, Kaveri, Shilpa, Rajashri, Rajashekar, Vijayalakshmi, Shailaja and Vyjayanthi.

The format of simran thirai is a new serial for every month and so far there has been six. The first serial started from March 3.

Makkal march is on....

Makkal TV is entering third year today.Makkal TV, founded by PMK leader Dr. Ramadoss, has carved a respectable niche for itself since its inception in September 2006. Makkal TV has not only proved the critics who wrote off the channel even before its launch wrong, but also proved that a GEC could be run without cinema and cinema-based content, even in film-crazy Tamil Nadu. It is well known for its non-filmy, infotaining & thamizh-centric programs.

It has programs like Tamil pessu thanga kasu anchored by James vasanthan which tests Tamil speaking skills. Many folk songs of the land feature very often. There are discussions about books and literature on regular basis. There are job opportunities hour and also popular serials based on real life like that of veerapan and now MGR being shot by MR Radha.

It is the second channel after Sun TV to be telecast in Astro Channel Malaysia in as it is format. Vijay and jaya are part of Astro's Vaanavil and only some of their programs are telecast.according to Ramdoss, 40 percent of the people were tired of cinema and cinema based programmes and craved for alternative content. And according to him, Makkal TV was the solution for them.

Makkal Tv will celebrate its anniversary in Madurai today. the celebration would have three sessions: ‘Isaithamizhum Nadagathamizhum’ (cultural events), ‘Iyatramizh’ (literature), and ‘Makkal Thamizh’ (felicitations to Makkal TV).

The first session would feature performances such as ‘nagaswaram,’ folk songs and ‘kaavadi Attam,’ by renowned artistes.

In the second session, various dialects of Tamil would be discussed.

In the final segment, prominent personalities and editors from different media organisations would analyse the various features of the channel.
Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Anbumani Ramadoss would preside over the occasion while PMK president Dr. Ramadoss would deliver a special address. The proceedings would be telecast live on Makkal TV from 4 p.m.

Shahbana is sick

Normally when your head gets bloated, you tend to throw tantrums, ridicule others, behave as if you are the only one in the world and also assume you know it all and important, others do not know anything. Very similar is Shabana's behavior, only here it did not get bloated just yesterday.

The Queen of parallel Hindi cinema was seen in a reality show last week disgracing and ridiculing a participant jodi in spite of them being quite popular among the audience.Balaji’s reality show Kaun Jeetega Bollywood Ka Ticket in 9x was the show and the victims were Twinkle Bajpai and Puneet Israni. In fact last month they walked out when they were thrown in to bottom two, but then was back on audience request.

She gave a lecture on ' attitude'- just imagine who is giving it. She is the one who is burdened with tons of attitude who very recently said in a fixed interview that she is not getting a flet all when kashmir was burning. Of course she was the queen of yesteryear parallel cinema and that was mainly because of the sudden suicide of Smitha patil. If only she had lived, today may be Shahbana would have remained a silent house wife in Javed's home. In fact Smita's suicide was very controversial and many had doubts over whether it was a suicide. Her husband Raj Babar mourned for a while and was later pleased by a ticket from a pro muslim Samajwadi party which he later left after all the linen was dry.

In this show she gave a lecture on attitude and also told that she was giving one mark and said “This will make you realize that the judges are no fools and you can’t question their judgment. Hopefully with this jolt you will stay in your limits.”

A clear case of casting couch and this reminds me of Shakti kapoor who was not very long ago shown live telling some opposite sex that they cannot make it without him. And what followed was more ridicule. Naman shaw another participant and whose mentor in the show is Shahbana Azmi said in the show to Puneet and Twinkle that "humne aavam ke bachcho ko aavam ke paas vapas bhej diya" meaning that we are sending the audience children back to them. What an attitude. This clearly shows how much a show which is supposed to enlist a pair for a future bollywood production has no sympathies to the feelings of the audience. The very next day Naman Shaw apologised in a forum and said he got carried away.

The vicious smile which shabana azmi sported when the announcement came that the TP pair is out was large in the screen. Also was seen a disappointed but poised Zeenat when the announcement came.

The next week episode will see Zeenat giving one mark to Naman Shaw for his attitude the previous week. It is reported that she will say "If others are penalized for their behavior, it's only fair to them that even you bear the consequences of your actions." Fair enough, only it could have come the earlier week itself. Ofcourse Nama Shaw will not suffer greatly by this mark, not as yet for the others gave him good marks - 10 from Mahesh Manjeraker ji,9 from Amrita singh. So they get 20. Mayank and Kritika are Out and chetan was also in bottom two.

If She had struggled to make it she would have been more emphatic, but she never had any competition and thus was pampered through out her career and even after it and that probably explains her illness. To throw out someone whom you do not like is common but to disgrace them and finish their aspirations in front of audience just for some TRP's and positioning is distasteful and disgraceful. To use the power of being a judge for such mean purpose shows her character, loud and clear.

The Queen is back

Mamathi Chari, easily the Queen of Tamil Comperes is back, this time in Sun TV. She will host a fresh new talent show for women in Sun TV every Saturday called Rani Maha Rani from today. The show timings are 9.30- 10.00 pm.

Mamathi Chari is the same lively chirpy hostess who was all over Vijay TV in 2007. hosted hello tamizha, Jillunu oru Jodi, Jiillunu oru challenge and also was judging many talent events in Vijay TV till last year. She was also the face and sound of Big FM in 2007. And then suddenly and abruptly she vanished. And now she is back. So far there is no program with her which has failed mainly because of her apt and confident handling of them and one can surely bet that this will also be a feather in her cap.
See earlier articles about her, here.
1. Where is she,
2. Vijay TV female hosts

Arasu's coffee

The war of words are once again on.Chief Minister M Karunanidhi issued a threat that the government would take legal action against the Sun Network for not sharing its feeds. He also said that RCV will cooperate with ACTVC and Arasu cable will start operations in Chennai Madurai and Tirunelveli from September 15th.

Sun TV Network alleged that the RCV have been intimidating operators in Madurai and flouting all norms. The Sun Group also questioned as to why RCV had been getting ‘favours’ when the Arasu Cable Corporation was formed to put an end to the monopoly of the Multi System Operators (MSOs) across the State. In a statement here on Wednesday, the network said it had never refused signals to multi system operators (MSO). It was giving its signals to MSOs all over the country and RCV’s charge that the network had refused digital feed to Arasu Cable TV Corporation was not true. On the other hand, it was negotiating with officials of the Arasu Cable TV for giving its digital feed. The network alleged that RCV was beaming its signals in Madurai illegally for which the network had filed a case against the RCV.

Many had and are still questioning as to why Arasu Cable does not have an office and operations from such an important city like Madurai giving credence to Sun Tv's accusation.

The Tamil Nadu state CPM unit said that cable TV operators in Madurai were being forced to take their signals from Royal Cable Vision (RCV), a private cable distribution network floated by the DMK's southern strongman M K Azhagiri.

"Cable operators in Madurai have complained that the police are foisting cases on those resisting pressure to sign up with RCV and many of them were facing threat and intimidation," N Varadarajan, state secretary, CPM, said in a letter to M Karunanidhi, chief minister, Tamil Nadu.

"It is their right to choose the network from which they will receive their channels and they cannot be forced to subscribe to a particular company. You should also take note of the partisan attitude of the police and take remedial measures,"- he had written in the letter as per Television point which has the copy of the letter.

Unless Sun network and star vijay is available in Arasu cable it will not be welcome in most of tele watching houses of the state. So the heat in the words of the warring sides is quite understandable.

Saravana fire and the Tamil apathy

Ranganathan Street, T nager and Saravana stores have been more or less synonymous for long now. Saravana Stores the pioneer in retail stores of Chennai or perhaps India, created a revolution of sorts in the eighties. A shop frequented by the middle class of not only Chennai but almost whole of south India. Anything and everything from mobiles to hairpin was available. Then they ventured in to Textiles, Jewelery, Optical etc. Everything was cheap and crowds pull and push you to buy something or the other. There are cheap eateries and sweets also available making it feasible to continue long hours of shopping, ideal for outstation crowd. This was all not based on any existing model but a very innovative and indianized retail model copied by giants later on.

Kishore Bayani, the founder of Big Bazaar confesses in his book Its Happening in India that his panthaloon chain was based on Saravana Model. In fact he has, and made mandatory for all his top management to visit saravana stores many times, make notes and etc before contemplating and executing his now successful retail chain.

Saravana's existence obviously is not good for the giants like Big Bazzar and Reliance and wall marts. Also after the death of its pioneer selvarathinam in 2003 the family is a divided house. Infact the pioneer died as an unhappy man. Though he was the founder he was evicted from the main business by his brothers Rajarathinam and Yogarathinam and was given just a jewellery, sweet and fast food shops to manage.The main shop in Ranganathan street was gobbled by the brothers. It was the same year when customers complained of rude staff and in fact a customer also committed suicide by jumping from the top floor of the shop. Then it all became quiet till the fire finished the five floors of this retail giant.


Was the fire an accident or was it a sabotage. We will never know. The festive season is about to commence and the fire happened in early hours when customers are not around , very similar to most dubious and suspicious fires of chennai like the moore market fire or the early Spencers fire or the frequent riche street fires. Was it for insurance or was it a sabotage by competitors. Many in the retail industry believe that most of saravana employees were already bought by the new competitors and so a insider job cannot be ruled out. But surely this case will be shut as an accidental fire caused perhaps by Short circuit or a gas cylinder burst which may also be true.

Unlike the other giant stores in T nager, this Saravana Stores had no visible political link and that is why harassment of their present owners cannot be ruled out. Already the Police is taking of negligence of the owners to keep fire standards as required. In fact the safety supervisor of the area should be the first person to be arrested if it is so. Every day lakhs of customers visit this shop and to claim that the authorities were not aware that the precautions were not in place here is itself a great administrative lapse. Now to dig out old rules and to say compliance was not followed may be face saving for the authorities but it amounts to diversion of the real issue.

One more seed of suspicion in the timing of the fire is it happened after the opening of the Flyover. The flyover is causing lots of inconvenience to public and the shop owners and many do not see business growth in the years to come in this area as most shops now loose easy accessibility. So there is a need of remodelling or redesigning of the area. So may be this will act as a pretext to enable so. One hopes this pretext was not a cause for the fire. Already Ranganathan street is a narrow lane and now the flyover has further curtailed its entrance by two narrow service roads. God only knows how the firemen reached this place in record time. It is said they reached there with in ten minutes of the reporting and they have done a fairly good job. And thank god the fire did not happen in working hours and if it had thousands would have died. The flyover also goes side of tall and very rich shops on both sides with alarming proximity and I hope the authorities are aware of the terrorist dangers it involves if not properly monitored.

The Americans are the most patriotic and the most well looked after citizens. See the recent case of Kenneth Haywood who left India in suspicious circumstances probably with state support. There are many instances when even drug peddlers escape gulf if they are Americans. Their embassies are so strong that they pull out any citizen of theirs whenever they are in danger or even if they have erred. The Gujaraties are also akin and their government supports their cause tooth and nail under what ever circumstances. Recently Mulayam met Mayawathi when one of the top business house close to him was under fire from authorities and helped ease matters in Uttar pradesh. The narayana moorties and premjis of Karnataka may not be close to the Gowdas but they had their say and way even when they were in power. Such kind of state help is unfortunately lacking in Tamilnadu for the native businessmen. Only open political patronage or linkage or partnership seem to ease matters else they are intimidated, probed excessively hampering their growth. This is true for all the parties here and hence this is not an accusation against the present administration. The Tamil pride is only confined to literature and some ancient texts and may be to some sculptures or statues which are even relocated to the same place as if that is the most important sign of growth. But what about real growth?

The Saravanas has been the source of bread butter and mobiles for countless tamilians world over and everyone is mourning. The need of the hour is hence the state should go out of the way to help their promoters quickly gather what ever remains and to start afresh in some near by locality and avoid this pride of us fall by side. This is the only business in which a tamil nadar is ruling inspite of northern attack in the state and to lose it will be of yet another stab on the tamil's real cause.

What has happened has happened and cannot be rewritten. The larger needs of the hour should eclipse the other issues even it be legal and this great house of trade should be let to stand erect again.

It is perhaps an irony that the other famous Saravana chain of hotels owner was also persecuted for some murder case for years and all credits to him for keeping his growth uninhibited even in those hours of crisis. If only the state had been sympathetic and pragmatic in their approach towards him then, may be he would have risen as big as Kentucky's or McDonald's. But his bad luck he was born a Tamilian.

The other big concern is we never learn. Inspite of the great fires of Kumbakonam school which was a world issue then, Inspite of a tsunami which again was all round calamity, we do not have the safety measures in place anywhere. In fact the only safe places in Chennai continues to be the political houses and their buildings.

Two boys have died in the fire and our sympathies should flow to their family. But again like those who lost their life in SUN TV madurai incident they will be forgotten soon. That is how we are. But hope we do not forget the great Saravana which has given something or the other in everyone of our houses.

Praja's Sun Raises

Since I had booked last week itself, I decided to pray at Tirumala on the 25th. Many had advised me to postpone considering the huge influx expected due to a mammoth meeting on 26th in Tirupathi. To my great surprise, I did not see any unusual crowd in Tirupathi en route. Also Tirumala looked very empty unlike any of my earlier visits. But the Queue moved slowly inside and the darshan took two good hours. But this was not because of Chiranjeevi but because of the new chairman of TTD who was taking Oath and praying inside the Temple. People were blocked both in entry and exit causing tempers to raise. In fact I had to shout my way out, hoping that the new chairman will take care of the devotees interest at least from day two.

En route i could see volunteers raising cutouts and posters for the meeting in all roads but still nothing in a scale compared to Tamilnadu. Such a meeting if in Tamilnadu would have caused severe hardships to the residents at least for a week. Tirunelveli was paralysed at least for a week before the Stalin's DMK show. A meeting for Vellore Metro inauguration saw all roads to and fro from vellore decorated by flags and banners and cutouts with lights and serials all amidst power shortage. Such is the frenzy in Tamilnadu. But I did not see any of this in Tirupathi.

I did see some newspapers mentioning expectation of a mammoth gathering and how special trains and buses are going to bring in lakhs for the inaugural convention. I also read in some dailies that hotels were overbooked, but I could see availability for many hotels on the 26Th in makemytrip.com.


That is why I see it as a great organisation. With very minimal hardships for the people in the city, A prajarajam was inagurated in a very typical marketing style. Round one of Chiranjeevi must be making the Naidus and Reddy's very Jittery. A very perfect ten for this grand show. Every thing was very well orcastrated and the crowd was enough to create a national sensation. All TV Channels gave it prime spot and some even telecasted it live. Brand Chiru was very well announced . Now the future will depend on the next steps which going by so far looks good. Everyone accepts he will make a difference in the next polls. But by how much and will he make a next NTR are the moot questions. NTR had only one congress to fight, while Chiru has at least three formidable parties to face now.


Tamilnadu can learn a lesson or two from this praja. But it never will is also a fact. A meeting at 4.00 PM and bringing in crowds within twelve hours is by itself a great feat. !0 lakhs, by god is astonishing.


The Lucky Eight connection for Chiranjeevi shows he measures and calsulates each of his steps.
1. His age is 53[ 5+3=8]
2. August is the Eight month in Calender.
3. He announced his entry in to Politice on August 17[ 1+7=8]
4. There are 26(2+6=8) committees to look after meeting arrangements
5. The party office was opened at 12.50 am (1+2+5+0=8).
6. His First political press meet time was 2.33 pm (2+3+3=8).
7. He entered stage at 5.30 pm [ 5+3=8]
8. He spoke for 80 minutes.[8+0=8]
9. He announced party name at 6.20 pm[ 6+2=8]
10. His party name count is eight.
11.The Party is formed after 26 years of the formation of TDP



Counterview
Purohits
Tuesday has always been lucky for Chiranjeevi. “He believes in Hanuman for whom Tuesday is auspicious. He announced his political entry on Tuesday, and also his political party, said Govardhanam Bhattacharya official purohit of Chiranjeevi.



Astrologers
Chiranjeevi announced his party at 6.22 pm, the time of Aarudra star and Khumbha lagnam whose lord is Saturn or Shani. In the ‘administration house’, Mars [Khuja] is in eighth place which is dangerous. When Khumba lagnam began at 5.56 pm, there was disturbance in his rally and police had to resort to lathicharge. His party flag has the red sun which symbolises violence. There will be lot of disturbances in his party and it cannot come to power, said astrologer Srinivasa Gargeya. G Veerabhadracharyulu, head of astrology department in Telugu university, astrologer Santosh Kumar Sashtri, and Narayana Sharma, numerologist, said the time and date at were not auspicious.



Numerology
Chiranjeevi announced his political entry on the 17th [1+7=8] and his party on the 26th. [2+6=8]. Eight is the favourite number of Shani and has never been successful. As per Cheiro numerology, the alphabet ‘P’ with which his party name starts doesn’t spell success. “Someone misled Chiranjeevi, 8 is not at all auspicious,” said Mr M. Ramana Rao, a numerologist.



Feng Shui
The flag shouldn’t have red colour as it may cause aggressiveness. “White and green signify peace and prosperity, red is not a good colour .This colour may cause aggressiveness. He should change it to orange shaded red,” said Inciyah Nazir, Feng shui expert.

Most Parties in Tamilnadu has Red as its prime flag color and almost all of them have tasted power. So may be these are planted forecasts.

Party Motto- “Preme Lakshyam – Seve Margam”



Flag Description: Sun rise is the symbol. There are 24 rays to the sun in the flag which denotes spreading the energy and light of sun throughout 24 hours. Red color of sun is symbol of change. White background is the mixture of vibgyor which represents people from all castes. The green streak indicates farmers. The yellow line around sun represents the smile that we will bring on the faces of every citizen. Red, White and Green represent Hindu, Christian and Muslims. Hence we are equally good for all the religions

Proposed Chiru's Prajarajyam Manifesto


Analysts opinion
1.Analysts agree that the megastar has a strong support base in West and East Godavari, Srikakulam, Vijayanagaram, Visakhapatnam, parts of Guntur, Krishna, Chittoor, Prakasam, Kurnool and Anantapur districts.
2.Analysts predict with confidence that Chiru will certainly be kingmaker, though they can’t figure out whether he has the chance of becoming the king. “It’s an inter-dependent world, what you will be able to achieve will also depend on what others do. Before Chandrababu Naidu’s ‘Mee Kosam’ it was certain that TDP was on a very weak wicket; but no longer so. It would not be a cakewalk for Chiranjeevi,” says a Congress MP.
3.Analysts say that for Chiranjeevi to transit to be perceived as king from kingmaker will be a giant leap. They point out that only if the megastar is able to truly become a backward caste leader will he able to become the king. “The OBCs, Dalits and scheduled tribes comprise the majority of voters in the state. In this the OBCs form the chunk. He has to win their support to become chief minister,” a political analyst said.

The Praja's Sun has Arrived.