A BYTE OF LIFE Wednesday, February 25, 2009 FRIEDA’S EX MIFFED And why might that be? A. Frieda Pinta (a.k.a) Letika is suddenly a star; B. She is getting cozy with co-star Dev Patel; C. The gal thinks she is a diva now and D. All of the above. Seems like Rohan An- tao, the once fiancé of the 24-year-old ‘Slum- dog Millionaire’ star, might press D. He has FREE CIRCULATION Vol. 3 No. 36 poured his heart out to the British media that the actor had called off their engagement fol- lowing the tremendous hype surrounding the movie and ultimately the Oscar awards them- selves. “Slumdog Mil- lionaire wrecked my relationship,” the heart- broken marketing exec- utive has told British tabloids.

READY FOR ROUND 2 Recovering from the "Padma snub", boxer Vijender Kumar is ready to rule in the ring again, reports Ayon Sengupta

» Page 08 02 NAMMA ERGO Wednesday, February 25, 2009 Get stuffed Experience the magic of Italian cuisine at Rhapsody, the restaurant at Courtyard by Marriott, with a range of dishes. The menu is from the land of cheese and pasta – rustic and hearty. For reservations call 66764000 Food on the go This small nondescript eatout should come to your rescue if you are lost in Perambur, even if it is at 1 a.m.

V. LOKPRIA curd, sambar and tomato are served for his eatery is tucked in the corner of a lunch. However, it is the evening tiffin that small street on the Perambur Barracks draws maximum crowds. Kal dosai and chap- Road for almost 12 years; chances are pati are instant sell-outs. Tfew that you miss it. It’s the milling One can get a plate of hot idlis at Rs. 6, crowd at Vallar Quality Tiffin Centre, better while crispy parathas are priced at Rs. 14. known by its original name ‘Akka Kadai’, Podi dosai comes at Rs. 10. Word-of-mouth that draws you. publicity and proximity to schools and resi- The nondescript eatout may not win dential zones make this joint popular. brownie points for its ambience, but it is Special vegetable briyani, priced at Rs. 17, sure to tickle your taste buds with its food. is served for lunch on Saturdays. Akka Kadai The pocket-friendly price of the food is the is haven for late night autorickshaw drivers A.R.Rahman biggest advantage. Piping hot idlis with who want to grab a quick bite. The place is sambar and red chutney and parathas with run by R. Suseela, fondly called ‘Akka’ by kurma and vadai curry are the best-selling customers. Selling 400 idlis a day, Akka Ka- to be felicitated items. This shop is open throughout the dai is good for those on the go. ■ week from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and again from 6 (Too Good for Critics is a weekly column to Music director A.R. Rahman, the first Indian p.m. to 1 a.m. celebrate Namma Chennai’s ‘Kaiyendi Bhavans’ to receive two Oscars, will be given a While idli, vada, pongal and puri make up and small eateries. If you can think of a similar felicitation by the Cine Musicians’ Union the breakfast menu, variety rice in lemon, place, mail us at [email protected]) and Trust in namma Chennai on March 1. The function to be held at the Cine Musicians’ Union auditorium in Vadapalani will see musician Dr. M. Balamurali playing the role of chief guest. Other dignitaries who would felicitate Rahman are producer A.V.M. Saravanan, director K. Balachander, and music directors M.S. Viswanathan and maestro Ilayaraja. A host of luminaries from the music fraternity of are also expected to add glitz and glamour to the occasion. Ergo Correspondent

How to get there: Take the fourth left from the Perambur Barracks Road Address: Vallalar Quality Tiffin Food that is easy on Centre, 2/26, your pocket. Vallavan Street, FILE PHOTOS Vepery Wednesday, February 25, 2009 03 For the foodie A Kongunadu food festival is on at Hotel Sabari Nest, No. 105, Dr. Radhakrishnan Road, Mylapore. The dinner is priced at Rs. 249. For reservation call 2811 5111/ 2811 1772.

Pete Lockett on his debut duet album with Bikram Ghosh

DEEPA VENKATRAMAN tam, kanjira and tabla,” said Lockett but the album was made in San Fran- kingdom and mythical space of kings who was in Chennai. cisco, London and India. One of our and warriors. t is good news for percussion lov- Their idea of coming up with an al- tracks also has the sound of cheeks of Lockett says, “We enjoyed doing the ers who will get to experience a bum was just by chance and one can Ghosh and utensils from his kitchen. chants and might have it in our next series of world class drum beats. sense a lot of creativity when you hear Ghatam Suresh and bass star Kai Eck- album, which we plan some time ITabla maestro Bikram Ghosh and it. Lockett recalls, “Both of us were hardt of John Mclaughlin fame have soon.” Pete Lockett of Hollywood fame have performing in Kolkata for the last two played for one of our tracks.” When asked about his future plans, released their maiden duet album, years and eventually we planned to A video jointly directed by Sugato Lockett, who has played on the drums Kingdom of Rhythm. This album make an album of all our composi- Guha and Riingoo for one of their for Rajinikath in Sivaji, says, “A classi- stands out for the variety of instru- tions. Over the period, we continuous- tracks, ‘Primal’, is made and for the cal based album Made in Chennai sung ments used. ly worked to perfect it and at the same first time the duo have rendered some by Gayatri and Uma Shankar would be “The drums used in the album are time tried to make it as innovative as chants for their songs. The Bengali released in March or April and another from across the world – Japan, Latin possible. music band, Dohar have also sung in album with veteran ghatam player America, Africa and typical Indian in- It was a big challenge as we were the album.The video is in the backdrop Vikku Vinayakam will be released so- struments – which includes the gha- not only editing and mixing our music of a journey around an imaginary metime in 2009.” ■ 04 KALEIDOSCOPE ERGO Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Tip of the iceberg

The first arrest made in connection with the Nigerian scam in Chennai could provide crucial leads to a large-scale racket

again, now as a representative of a bank in Holland saying that the so-called affected woman had nominated Nayak for her father’s wealth of $4.5 lakh in cash,” said Naseeruddin, Sub Inspector of Police, Velachery. He added that Nayak, upon Davidson’s request, had gone to Mumbai in January 2009 and paid Davidson, then impersonat- ing as a bank agent, a sum of Rs 3.5 lakh as initial payment to re- ceive the dollars as a consign- ment later. “The accused had told the victim that the money will be coated black to avoid Customs clearance problems, hence, he could clean the currency with a solution later,” said the officer. The accused told Nayak that one litre of the solution would cost him Rs. 1.6 lakh and had even demonstrated to him the clean- ing process in Mumbai. Upon returning to Chennai, Nayak realised that he had been tricked and decided to trap Da- vidson. He told Davidson to come ERGO CORRESPONDENT lice here have arrested Davidson to Chennai and collect Rs. 10 lakh house in Velachery to be handed cused is in prison and could pro- [email protected] (29), a Nigerian citizen who had as payment for the solution. Tak- over to the police. vide police valuable insight into reportedly resorted to the world ing this for real, Davidson arrived Interestingly, Davidson was unearthing the roots of the Niger- or the very first time the famous ‘Wash Wash’ scam or in Chennai on February 20, only sent to prison after being booked ian scam in the country. In Chen- Chennai City Police have ar- ‘Black Dollar’ scam and cheated a to by locked up by Nayak in his only for forgery and holding a nai, a number of cases of email rested a man allegedly in- city-based software engineer of fake passport. scams, including those announc- Fvolved in the infamous Rs. 3.5 lakh. Last year, a Chennai-based ing that the victim has won a Nigerian scam. Official police According to police sources, mathematician fell prey to phish- huge lottery or expensive car, or records indicate that a good the victim, Laxmikanth Nayak The ‘Wash Wash’ scam ing and was duped of Rs. 7 lakh. that a “wealthy ” is ready number of Chennai netizens (29), a native of Orissa who is em- case is the only However, police managed to re- to adopt him, and bank frauds, have been tricked by various ployed in an IT firm on Old Ma- cover Rs. 4 lakh since the crime have been reported. “These forms of the scam and are esti- habalipuram Road, had received instance where the was reported immediately. The might be different cases but most mated to have lost over Rs. 1 an email in November 2008 from accused is in prison accused were traced as a group of of the crimes are committed by a crore to it in 2008 itself. However, Davidson, who was impersonat- and could provide Nigerian nationals residing in group of tech-savvy individuals none of the cases of the Nigerian ing as a young woman. After gain- New Delhi. Chennai police’s at- who are mostly foreign nationals scam to have been reported has ing the trust of the victim through police valuable insight tempts to bring them to Chennai stationed in different parts of In- yielded 100 percent results and a number of emails, the culprit into unearthing the and question them didn’t work dia,” said a senior investigation neither has an accused been ar- informed the victim that her (his) out as the suspects were involved officer. rested here. family and business got de- roots of the Nigerian in similar cases in Delhi. Davidson is likely to be taken However, in a significant stroyed in a civil war in Africa. scam in the country The ‘Wash Wash’ scam case is into police custody soon for breakthrough the Velachery po- “Later, the accused mailed the only instance where the ac- questioning. ■ Wednesday, February 25, 2009 05 Of Dora skirts and Barbie tunics Chocklate off Nungambakkam High Road is for party wear for kids anywhere between six months and 15 years. And you can get the clothes customised, too

V. LOKPRIA cade work. The dresses are stylish, appealing and in line with the latest trends of the fash- ired of hunting the perfect party wear ion industry. However, there are limited op- for your little ones? Your search ends tions for the boys. right here. Located on IVth Lane off Apart from the clothes on the stands, the TNungambakkam High Road, it’s the store also undertakes customised tailoring shop’s name that attracts you in the first pla- and designing of clothes according to one’s ce.Chocklate is the dream child of Nisha. taste and budget. The materials are hand- Started three months ago, this shop has built picked by Nisha from abroad and are for itself a steady clientele. As the tagline sug- stitched in her tailoring unit. Actor Kushboo gests, this shop is a big bite of kids’ fashion. was the store’s latest customer. The shop specialises in customised party The store also undertakes orders for Dora wear for children in the age group of six skirts, Barbie tunics and Spider Man tops for months to 15 years. According to Nisha, themed birthday parties. “Kids get bored easily and they are very choo- The latest in store are tunics with the kid’s sy about their stuff; even the more when it name embossed in leather. The price of each comes to clothes, so it’s a challenge design- dress varies depending upon its design and ing clothes for kids.” material. Ballroom gowns are The collection com- available from Rs. 2,000 on- prises halters, ghagra- wards, while tunics come at Rs. choli, balloon gowns, Address: 1,000. heavy tunics, frocks, Chocklate “There are is no place in Chinese collar dresses, No.3, Bhavani Mansion, Chennai that deals exclusively ballroom gowns for A2 block, 4th Lane, with kids’ party wear and the girls, and traditional In- Nungambakkam High market here is very good. dian sherwanis and an- Road, That’s the main reason why I grakhas for boys. Then Chennai – 600034 started out on children’s party Ph: 044 - 45040108 there are tops in tiger wear. The response is amaz- Store timings: 11 a.m. to prints mixed with den- 7:30 p.m. (Closed on ing,” says Nisha, who turned im, sequinned ones and Sundays) her hobby of fashion designing those with heavy bro- into profession. ■ 06 VILLAGE ERGO Wednesday, February 25, 2009 Melon madness A man has broken a world record by smashing 47 watermelons with his head in 60 seconds.

Sweden’s crown Leeches help save Australian princess to wed shark victim’s hand Victoria Ingrid Alice Desiree, 31, the eldest Surgeons who used child of the king and Silvia will leeches to reattach the marry luxury gym owner Daniel Westling, severed hand of an 35, next year and their engagement will be Australian surfer announced following a cabinet meeting mauled by a great attended by Prime Minister Fredrik white shark on Reinfeldt and her father, King Carl XVI Sydney’s Bondi Beach Gustaf, according to a Swedish media. Born Tuesday hailed the to a German father and Brazilian mother, operation as a “minor Victoria is first in line to the throne. miracle.” Glenn Orgias, 33, almost lost his hand after being savaged by a 2.5 metre Music therapy can cure Alzheimer’s’ (8.2 foot) great white Music seems to hold a promise for people suffering from in the surf off Bondi dementia, for a new study has found that Alzheimer’s on February 12 – the patients could improve memory by just listening to their second shark attack in favourite songs. An international team has found that Sydney in as many days. Orgias was rushed to hospital people suffering from Alzheimer’s can slow the relentless with his hand hanging by a three-centimetre (1.2 inch) course of the disease by tuning into their favourite songs, piece of skin. Using leeches doctors were able to restore the latest issue of the ‘Cerebral Cortex’ journal reported. blood flow to the injured hand. “I thought the hopes for According to researchers, listening to certain tunes from the hand were close to zero, but I have hope in time that one’s past evokes powerful and vivid memories that appear Glenn will have a working hand,” plastic surgeon Kevin to be immune from the condition. And, by making a Ho said. “soundtrack of someone’s life” before their mind is AFP damaged and playing it back to them “could help form a resistance to the disease”. What seems to happen is that a piece Khmer Rouge ’First Lady’ of familiar music serves as a soundtrack for a in Cambodia court tirade mental movie that starts The former Khmer Rouge “First Lady” launched an angry tirade playing in our head. “It at Cambodia’s UN-backed genocide tribunal on Tuesday, telling calls back memories of a her accusers they would be “cursed to the seventh circle of hell.” particular person or Ieng Thirith, 76, facing trial for crimes against humanity under place, and you might all the communist regime, at first told the court that defence of a sudden see that lawyers would speak on her behalf during her appeal against person’s face in your detention, saying: “I am too weak.” But she later erupted at the mind’s eye,” Petr janata, prosecution’s suggestion that she was aware of atrocities at the who led the team said. notorious Tuol Sleng prison while she served as social affairs PTI minister during the Khmer Rouge’s 1975-1979 rule. AFP Drowsy presser by drugged minister A new phone game mocks Japan’s ‘drowsy’ ex-finance minister

apanese who watched footage likeness of Nakagawa as he fields Japanese carriers. Jof their former finance minis- questions at a press conference, “We were seeking to produce a ter slur his words and appear to or allow him to sneak in short new type of game, featuring news nod off at a ’Group of Seven’ naps to build up his energy lev- topics,” said Evan Kojima, a press conference can now try to els. manager at LiveWare Inc. “The keep him awake in a new cell Players gain points if they news of the press conference phone game. boost Nakagawa’s “support rat- emerged with a great impact Shoichi Nakagawa – who re- ing” by having him answer jour- when we were trying to come up signed last week blaming cough nalists’ questions, but it’s game with an idea.” medicine and jet lag rather than over if the minister sleeps while In December, a British Internet alcohol for his drowsy perfor- he is asked a question, and the firm launched a game where mance in Rome – has become game ends with him falling off players could emulate the Iraqi the latest target of Japan’s mis- his chair. journalist who hurled his shoes chievous Internet game industry. The game from LiveWare Inc. at then US president George W. In the new phone game called can be downloaded for 52 yen Bush in protest against his ad- “Drowsy Presser by Drugged (55 US cents) on to the Internet- ministration’s Iraqi policy. ■ Minister” players can wake a enabled handsets of three major AFP Wednesday, February 25, 2009 07 Website of the day Hairy attire Under the knife nightmares: A Romanian woman has made http://www.awfulplasticsurgery.com/ herself an entire wardrobe of clothes out of her own hair. 08 SPORT ERGO Wednesday, February 25, 2009 Paes-Dlouhy ousted Third seeds Leander Paes and Lukas Dlouhy made a shock first round exit from US$ 2,233,500 Dubai Tennis championships after losing 4-6, 6-2, 8-10 to unseeded pair of Simone Bolelli and Ivo Karlovic. Paes-Dlouhy made a spirited comeback after going down in the first set but lost it in the closely fought super tie-breaker.

The Sahara beneficiaries Vijender Singh, Akhil Kumar, Jitender Kumar, A.L. Lakra, Dinesh Kumar, Amandeep Singh, Nanao Singh, Narjit Singh, Chhote Lal Yadav, Rakesh Kalaskar, Dilbagh Singh, Balwinder Beniwal and Santosh Kumar Virothu ● Benefits According to sources in the Indian Boxing Federation, the players will be divided into four grades based on their performances and achievements. The Olympic and World Cup medallists will be in the top bracket and get around Rs. 13-15 lakh annually. The next rung would get Rs. 5-6 lakh, those in grade C will get Rs. 2-4 lakh and grade D will get around Rs. 1-2 lakh.

Vijender Kumar in action during the Beijing Olympics. Right: Sahara chairman Subroto Roy flanked by Sushil Kumar (left) and Vijender Kumar during Sahara’s announcement to sponsor Indian boxers and wrestlers in New Delhi on Monday. PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES AND PTI

Kiwis get Wright stuff on India New Zealand have drawn on the inside knowledge of former India coach John Wright as they prepare to play the side they regard as the best in the world. India’s tour of New Zealand starts in Wellington on Wednesday with the first of two Twenty20 matches to be followed by five One-Day Internationals and three Tests. Wright, the former Kiwi opener who coached India from 2000-2005, has been heavily involved with preparations for the series, according to New Zealand’s Andy Moles. Despite Wright’s tips, and India’s reputation as poor travellers, Moles insists New Zealand are still the underdogs. “They’ve put that to bed in the last couple of years and did really well in Australia last year,” said the coach. “The Indians, I believe, are probably the number one side in the world at the moment in all facets and we will need to make sure we are at our best in all components of our game.” India have not won a Test series in New Zealand in 41 years, but they arrive on the back of home series victories over Australia and England and a 4-1 one-day away win against Sri Lanka. New Zealand, on the other hand, squandered a 2-0 one-day lead against Australia to draw the series 2-2 and then lost the Twenty20 by one run. AFP Wednesday, February 25, 2009 09

Having new teams is always good as its more competition and better for the sport in general. I don’t know too much about the USF1 team, but the States is a big market for the car industry so it would be good to get a team from that area. And for women in F1, why not? Danica has got some really good results in the past. ‘‘ Giancarlo Fisichella on Danica Patrick’s potential Formula One entry Reasons to smile again Sahara’s decision to back Indian boxers comes as a breather after the Padma award snub

AYON SENGUPTA [email protected]

ndian boxers felt ignored by the Indian government after Olympic medallist Vijender Kumar and IWorld Cup bronze medallists Ak- hil Kumar and Jitender Kumar were denied the Padma awards. A disappointed Vijender says: “It did hurt my pride. But I can do noth- ing about it. The time has passed. It was a dream to get the award from the President but now it has been shattered. I am training hard to get over it.” Now, to put the smiles back on their faces, Sahara has decided to support Vijender, his fellow Olym- pians and a total of 13 boxers for the next few years in a bid to translate the single Olympic bronze at the Beij- sports stars in India, too.” Championships in Milan in August ing Games to a handful of gold in Roy’s Sahara has also decided to and I am sure of making a full recov- London 2012. support the Bhiwani Boxing Club ery before that.” “Sahara has constantly supported (BBC) run by veteran boxer Jagdish Meanwhile, enjoying his new- Indian sports, especially cricket, and Singh, home to India’s Olympic box- found cult status and rubbing shoul- look where cricket is now. With their ers. Welcoming the move, Vijender ders with celebrities, backing we can also hope to break says: “It’s great that they have not Vijender has also kept an eye on the greater heights,” Vijender declares. just come in to support the establish- International Boxing Association’s “If government apathy had pushed ed paddlers but also the very base, (AIBA) World Series of Boxing, due to boxing down a few rungs, this deal where more boxers can be trained.” be launched in 2010. The World Se- would help us claw back and climb The bronze medallist who had mis- ries features international franchises, higher. These simple gestures mean a sed the World Cup to recover from a following the footsteps of the very lot.” back injury has made his way back to successful Uefa Champions League Recalling his interaction with Sah- the ring and is preparing for the and Indian Premier League. “Once ara supremo Subroto Roy, the Bhiwa- World Championships. “I am doing the league is introduced, amateur ni lad says: “He asked me to walk into some light training and am confident boxing will have money and glamour his bungalow and call for him any- of regaining my full repertoire. But and be a worldwide phenomenon. time of the day if I ever faced a prob- my back still gives in sometimes and Every boxer is looking forward to it lem. It makes you feel that apart it’s better to take things slowly,” Vi- and I hope an Indian franchisee picks from our cricketers there are other jender says. “We will have the World me up,” Vijender says. ■

Food for thought Indian wrestlers preparing for next year’s Commonwealth Games are asking for more nutritious food at the national camp in Pune, according to reports on Tuesday. Some of the wrestlers have complained that although the government has earmarked huge amounts of money for the New Delhi games, enough was not trickling down for the preparation of athletes. “We are not getting (a) proper diet... how can you expect us to deliver good results,” an unnamed wrestler said. “They are giving us double-toned milk and vegetables prepared in refined oil. We are not getting anything special to supplement our diet,” he added. The Indian government has earmarked Rs. 7 crore for the preparation of elite athletes for the games, seen as a big advertisement for India’s rapid economic growth. Indian wrestlers have performed consistently in international meets and their hopes have been boosted after Sushil Kumar won a bronze at last year’s Beijing Olympics. “It’s a serious problem. It will disturb their preparation for the games,” Wrestling Federation of India secretary-general Kartar Singh said. Many of the wrestlers come from traditional wrestling academies and enjoy a rich diet of buffalo milk and ghee (clarified butter) as a cooking medium. Reuters 10 FLICK ERGO Wednesday, February 25, 2009 Winslet’s 5-year-old speech writer Kate Winslet confessed to having taken acceptance speech pointers from her five-year-old son Joe . “He said I should say ‘Thank you to everyone for helping me,’” the Sun quoted her as saying. “That broke my heart,” she added. ‘I was nervous facing the camera after 25 years’ Neetu Singh makes a comeback, that too opposite Rishi Kapoor PHOTO: SHIV KUMAR PUSHPAKAR

er vivaciousness was her off well. “I was wondering how I Neetu said she decided to and are settling down in life. plays a Mathematics teacher trademark in the many would be able to memorise my make a comeback on the big Riddhima got married and Ran- while I play his wife and a moth- films she acted in, but dialogues and deliver them well. screen after much persuasion. bir, too, is doing well for him- er of two grown-up kids. My HNeetu Singh admits she It was bound to happen though “Except for an odd still-shoot self. He is going in the right clothes too have been designed was nervous while facing the and I settled down after my ini- here and there, I hadn’t done direction. There are good roles on the lines of those that are camera after more than 25 years tial nervous moments,” says much for the camera over the being written today and this is typically worn by women in this for comeback film Do Dooni Neetu, who debuted as a child years. Yes, there were offers to when I decided to give acting part of the city,” the actor says. Chaar, in which she stars oppo- actor more than 40 years ago in act all this while but I wasn’t too another shot,” she said. Neetu Singh’s last big release site husband Rishi Kapoor. Dus Lakh and acted in around keen. I was happy looking after Neetu is quite happy playing was opposite Amitabh Bach- “Yes, I was indeed nervous 50 films. my family and home,” says Nee- a middle-class Punjabi house- chan in Yaraana (1981), though when I was called for my first Do Dooni Chaar, being made tu, who featured in hits like Khel wife in Do Dooni Chaar, instead she did later feature in lesser- shot in the film,” says Neetu. “I by debutant director Habib Fai- Khel Main, Amar, Akbar, Antho- of making a quintessential big- known films like Chorni and was facing the camera after sal, will see her playing a typical ny and Kabhie Kabhie. bang comeback. Ganga Meri Maa. more than 25 years and was Punjabi wife of a Mathematics What really made her return “Do Dooni Chaar is quite in- Do Dooni Char is set to re- conscious on the sets.” teacher (Rishi Kapoor) in Del- to Bollywood? teresting. It is a meaningful light lease later this year. ■ As expected, the scene went hi’s Lajpat Nagar area. “My kids are doing good now hearted entertainer. Rishi-ji IANS Wednesday, February 25, 2009 11 Say freeze! Simon Cowell wants to have his body frozen after he dies because he is convinced that one day technology will bring him back to life. The X Factor and American Idol judge announced his plans to British Premier Gordon Brown at a Downing Street dinner. “I’ve decided to have myself frozen when I die. You know, cryogenics,” the Daily Star quoted Cowell, as saying. ANI Clothes Cine City USA Calling Looks like has a strong affinity to USA’s scenic locations. With two of maketh the woman his movies – Vettaiyaadu Vilayaadu and Vaaranam Aayiram – already shot in USA, we hear that Vinnai Thaandi Varuvaaya, starring , will also be shot at the director’s favourite place. There is a buzz that his project with Ajith is still on the cards and he rubbishes all rumours about having any issue with the star. If all ends well, will this project also be shot in USA? Let’s wait and watch. Nicole Kidman tops Most Fashionable Aussie list again

icole Kidman has once classic style icons. again been voted the Most “The Rosemount O Summer Fashionable Aussie in a Style Index shows us that Austra- Nnew survey. lians value a classic sense of style According to the annual Rose- that transcends every age – from mount O Summer Style Index, Jennifer Hawkins and Miranda Nayan, get the actress grabbed the title beat- Kerr through to the timeless style award Actors Asin, , Meera Jasmine, Bharath, Sundar C. and Pasupathi will receive the Kalaimamani Award instituted by the Tamil Nadu Government. A total of 70 persons will be given the awards in recognition of their work in their respective fields. Meanwhile, Aishwarya , daughter of Superstar Rajinikanth, will also receive the award for her contribution to classical dance.

Jennifer Hawkins Cate Blanchett ing former Miss Universe-turned- TV presenter Jennifer Hawkins. of Quentin Bryce and Maggie Cate Blanchett was at the third Tabberer,” the Herald Sun quot- spot, followed by the World’s Sex- ed her as saying. iest Man Hugh Jackman, the on- “And while it’s probably not a ly male in the top 10. big surprise that Melbourne Wrapping up the top five ranks highest on the style stakes, was the stunning singer Kylie it’s interesting to see suburbs Minogue. with a more accessible and laid- Rosemount marketing back personality such as Noosa manager Sandy Mayo ac- and Unley ranking on Australia’s corded the results to the Aus- style radar,” she added. ■ tralians’ preference for ANI

Nicole Kidman. GETTY IMAGES 12 ERGO Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Sindu Ford, Prasanna Chakravarthi, Rajesh Wipro, Tuesday’s Query: Hari.M TCS, Gopi Excelaco, S.Dheepa Infosys, Anusha, Anu Jackson Cognizant, Your congratulatory Arun Kumar, Beny Raja, Jerome Allsec, Senthil.VS, messages for Indians who Verizon ■ Musical storm is now upgraded to musical have won the Oscars’ hurricane long live oscA.R Rahman ■ This is not the final step, the first step, Hashim, Allsec but a good one at the right time to start our march. ■ Let this be a beacon of hope for all to Krishnakumar, Sudharsan, Jagan, Karthi, overcome obstacles to reach heights Baasha, Parthi (HCL) regardless of backgrounds. Kudos way to go Senthil, Wipro ■ ’A’llah ’R’ewards Rahman. India arrives to the big stage. It’s just the beginning. ■ I wouldn’t say u got the Oscars, The Ho! Golden Globe, The BAFTA awards in the A.G.Sivakumar (Perot Systems), Sabarish.JM right time. If there were any foreign (CTS), Arun, Vonage Team (CSS), Pradeep.S touches, (cast/technicians/banner) in ur (Mphasis), Balamurugan Rajan (HCL), Robin.M previous projects, you would have got all (Wipro), S.Sivasundaram (RRD) the awards for Roja itself. Ungal isaiyai ennalum suvaasikum indha thamizhanin Sundar Shri Ganesh from CGSL has nominated his ■ "Ella Pugalum Iraivanukke" to one and nalvaazhthukkal friends as Partners in Crime. This pic was clicked at only God of Music Allah Rakha Rahman Sureshkumar, Rangasamy, HCL Udayam Theatre. Aboo (Wipro), Senthil Kumar.P (RRD), Devagi (CSS), Sasidharan (TCS), (Mphasis) ■ This is one milestone. Good luck to conquer more laurels. The woods are lovely ■ Varumaikku kodumaikku sutri sutri dark and deep. But I have promises to keep. thirinthen, Sinna sinna paravai pol thisai And miles to go before I sleep. yenkum paranthen, Veylilum mazhilum Deepak Vasudevan ,Verizon vittu vittu nanainthen, Mugavari yethuv yentru mugam thulaithen, Manam ■ Ella pugazhum un oruvan oruvanuke, nee thunday ponathe unai kangal theduthe nadhi pole odikondiru. un vervaiku vettrigal thoda kaikal niluthe ithayam ithayam yendrum thodara vazhthukkal thudikintrathe yengum un pol pasam illai Hema CSS, Dinesh.R, TCS, Ramu Vishnu TCS, athalal un madi thedinen. A.R.Rehman Rajesh, Wipro kku vanaakkam Chris Ganesh (Perot Systems) ■ Dear Rahman ji, first my wishes to you. Your music magic should not stop here. You ■ This is a beginning, we got T20WC, have more responsibilities now and need to Olympic medals, golden globe and now satisfy more your fans than you did before Oscar, this is a strong message send across Krishnan TV, Wipro to the indians, we can achieve anything and boosting for those who looking more ■ Dear Indian Oscarians, Oscar is your heights my heartfelt congrats to oscAR recognition and you are our recognition. It Rahman and the others chakde India feels great to live in the land where you Thivya Priya from Cognizant has nominated her gang Vinoj (Allsec) live in. We are proud of you. Jai Ho! as Partners in Crime . The pic was Clicked at Pine Paul (CSS), Mukund (SCB Scope International), Forest in Kodaikanal. ■ Thalaivaru na namma MGRu, hitu na Dhanapal (HCL Comnet), Dinesh, Mahalakshmi adhu Super Staru, Issaiku vera yaaru, (Perot Systems), Mohan Kumar, Nirmal (TCS) adhu daan Oscar ARRu. Thamizhanendru Sollada Thalai Nimirndhu Sellada ■ A.R.Rahman, needless to mention, Swaminathan, Reflexisis deserved such a prestigious recognition right for his debut film way back in 1992. ■ Talent and hardwork always keeps the Perhaps God has let him enhance his person in a higher position. patience & now that he made it. ARR JI. We Congratulation guyz all know that this is not the end of the Ravi, TCS-eserve road! Elango, Wipro ■ Rahmanji is an example for the Bible verse "he that humbles himself shall be ■ A.R.R is made in India and made for India exalted". Hearty congrats Prince, Zohocorp , TCS Today’s Query: ■ Now India can challenge the world. Now world know music is born in India. Two things you would like Devan, CSS to do before you die and ■ My special congrats to ARR and all the very best 4 his future to get more why? Sridhar Raparthi from HCL has nominated his friends as awards. Partners in Crime. This pic was clicked at Chinnamanur. Wednesday, February 25, 2009 13

■ Pandiya Rani, Wish you Many More Happy return Mr. Arjun Mahajan of HCL of day to my dear friend,God Bless Belated Wishes has been nominated as Of- you. ■ Hi, Hema K fice Angel by his colleague Regards, Many Many Happy Returns Of the Ramachandran. THD, TCS Day. Yours dear friend He is working in HCL tech ■ Dear Swetha, for the past 9 months and is San Ni Kuai Lo! ■ Dear Vijay, the most talented person in Otanjou-bi Omedetou Gozaimasu! Sorry for the belated Birthday wishes. the team with little luck as Bonne Fete! Wish u many many and many more others take credit for the work Enna onnum puriyaama happy returns of the day (Feb 22) he has done. But that doesn’t muzhikireenga! .May your life be full of happiness stop him from working day Puttiroju subhakankshalu and joy. Have a bright and and night for his goals. He is OK, Simple yaar English lo, HAPPY flourishing future. God Bless You... :-) friendly and adaptable to all BIRTHDAY! With Loads of wishes, situations but only thing he We wish u many more happy returns Customer World Team, TCS couldn’t adjust to is the food of the day!! habit of Chennai. “We turn not older with years but ■ Dear Delen (FBA), newer every day.” Wish you many more happy returns With loads of love from, of the day from the Entire QA/Test Krishna, Swetha S, Paaru, Siri. Dept, Sella Synergy India (P) Ltd HCL Technologies Ltd. We wish your dreams come true especially to become Business ■ Dear Saidai Arasi, Analyst. Wish you many more happy returns All the very best and waiting for your of the day treat Wishes from the Heart, Cheers, Suveer, QA/Test Dept M24 Team, FSS Sella Synergy India (P) Ltd

■ Hi Rajesh, ■ Dear Divya, Belated Happy birthday!!! Have a gr8 Today we celebrate a person who year.. wish all your dreams come true Brings happiness to everyone, this year.!! Message for your bday - We wish you a wonderful life "The secret of staying young is to live filled with love and prosperity. honestly, eat slowly, and lie about We hope others bring you joy, Art featured in this your age.".. Have a blast.!! just as you’ve brought joy to us, column will receive With best wishes from, then you can weather any storm gift coupons from Friends, ExcelaCom Technologies. and be all you want to be. Fruit Shop on Happy Birthday !!! Greams Road. Send ■ Siva Manasula Sakthi (SMS) ithu Lots of luv, in your addresses old title Scindia, Seetha, Anu, so that we can post Siva Manasula Sumathi (SMS) puthusu Swathi, Ramya the coupons. kanna puthusu Tata Consultancy Services Wishing them a grand and colorful life! ■ Dear Adharsh Hearty wishes from Wishing you many more happy returns of the day.. May all your Thamil Selvan of HCL SM (Thala-Karuppiah, Angurajan, Sriram, dreams come true. Happy birthday, Technologies Ltd doodled this. Yuva) Change Records (Arjun, Sindhu, , mandla, , Muthulakshmi, love you so much. Niranjani, senthil) ACE (Thala-Magesh, With Lot Of Love Karthik, Sonu) And Prasanth, Sanjay, Divya , IBM Anirudh, Madhan and all other team members ■ Dear Karuppasamy Manimala We wish Manimala a joyful and ■ Hi Rehman colorful birthday. May all the Congrats on winning Oscars. happiness continue throughout her Keep it up… life. Now, Indians can win Oscar. From BSC Extended Support Team. Jai Ho! Ramah Ramakrishnan Lukeson, Wipro Cognizant Technologies

■ Hi Junior, ■ Hi Julie, 1. Pongalukku Governmentla leaveu kudupanga... Ana Idly Do- Many More happy returns of the Congratulations! May the coming saikku kudupangala?!!!!!!!!! day! Let this Birthday be loaded with years bring lots of success & 2. Enna thaan oruthan gundaa irundalum, avana thuppak- full of happiness & enjoyment. God happiness around you. Keep on kikulla poda mudiyathu!!!!!!! bless you Bharath! smiling & capturing hearts! 3. Autokku autonu paer irundaalum manual aa thaan drive Hearty wishes by With love, panna mudiyum... Saranya Saranya M Saravanan.V, Cognizant Cognizant. Software Engineer, HCL Technologies Ltd 14 TRAFFIC JAM ERGO Wednesday, February 25, 2009 Hard-up President George W. Bush has turned down his first chance of a new job since leaving the White House - at a hardware store in Dallas.

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B.C

ARIES MARCH 21 - APRIL 20 It may be the day of multitasking. You may participate in brainstorming sessions at office, along with your routine activities. In personal life, your spouse or beloved may want you to fulfil his or her expectations and you may not say ’no’ to it.

TAURUS APRIL 21 - MAY 20 You may become more career oriented today. Instead of wasting time in mundane activities, you will have complete focus on work at office. Your beloved one or life partner may feel that you are dominant. Nurture love life in best way you can!

GEMINI MAY 21 - JUNE 20 You may be receiving favours from everyone at BORN LOSER office, which will make you feel lucky. Important tasks may be on the verge of completion. You may experience mood swings. There may be desire to go to exotic place with your beloved. CANCER JUNE 21 - JULY 20 Ganesha feels that some of your essential activities at office may be delayed if taken up. Suppose if there is a meeting, it may postpone. In love relationships, you may remain touchy so if your partner ignores you, it may hurt you.

LEO JULY 21 - AUG 20 You are passing through ’low strength phase’ today. Ganesha suggests you not to spar against anyone at office or even at home, as you have lesser scopes of coming out as a winner in confrontations. In love life, you might have to keep ’ego’ aside. VIRGO AUG 21 - SEPT 20 It could be an action-packed day for you at office. FREE RANGE WORKING IT OUT You may enjoy research and development activities. Important meetings may be arranged, says Ganesha. In personal life, you will not be able to pay due attention, due to your busy schedule. LIBRA SEPT 21 - OCT 20 Ganesha finds you balancing each and every factor at workplace. You can be inspiring and motivating others. Your performance or skills will be appreciated by other people. You will share your beliefs and ideas with your beloved one SCORPIO OCT 21 - NOV 20 Today you may not be very energetic at office but you may be thinking deeply about certain issues related to your life, by and large. While you do this, ensure that your work doesn’t get sidelined. You may wish to devote more time to your love life. SAGITTARIUS NOV 21 - DEC 20 Ganesha finds you very creative in your work today. You will be able to perform exceptionally well in your career. You will handle technical part of your work very well. If there are issues in your personal life, you may be able to resolve them. CAPRICORN DEC 21 - JAN 20 Ganesha feels that you will be paying more attention to management and related matters at office. You will use your verbal communication skills to convince others. In love life, you may be soft- spoken an compromising. AQUARIUS JAN 21 - FEB 20 PREVIOUS This is best day to begin new projects. If you are at a managerial level in your work, you may handle your job very intelligently and tactfully. Love life may ISSUE’S be full of charm and you will be in a good humour SOLUTIONS throughout the day. PISCES FEB 21 - MARCH 20 Trivial matters may take up lot of time and energy. You may need to handle your work more attentively as there are chances of mistakes and goof-ups. Talk to your beloved one about your feelings, very frankly, in order to feel relieved. Predictions by Bhavesh N. Pattni 16 ! ERGO Wednesday, February 25, 2009 No more bright clothes for public servants Public servants in the gritty central Chinese city of Zhengzhou should not sport "unnatural hair styles" or wear clothes that are too colorful, according to new city regulations.

New videogame lets you ‘slap’ a CEO online A Web entertainment company has launched an online videogame called “Trillion Dollar Bailout” which allows players to “slap” or reward CEOs and hand out bags of money to deserving homeowners. Players of the game, created by AddictingGames.com, are given one trillion play dollars with which to “rescue the US economy before total economic meltdown strikes.” In the game, homeowners and corporate CEOs pop out of a New York City skyline requesting taxpayer-funded handouts – such as the eight billion dollars requested by “Crysalot Motors.” Players can either hand out money by clicking on a money bag icon or give the person requesting a bailout a slap by clicking on an icon which looks like a hand. The player’s actions are charted on a graph and determine whether the economy is “saved” or “tanks.” The game’s creators urge players to “punish greedy fat cats and save honest people” and “put the hurt on dudes in suits!” ■ AFP

68-yr-old granny listed the most married woman A sexagenarian granny, who has tied the knot 23 times, has been listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the most married woman. Linda Wolfe, 68, first got married at the age of 16. The mother of seven achieved such a huge tally after becoming “addicted to the romance” of getting hitched. Her longest marriage lasted seven years, while her shortest was just 36 hours. Her list of husbands include a convict, a vending machine mechanic, a preacher, barmen, plumbers and musicians. Two of her husbands turned out to be gay, while two others cheated on her. Linda, of Alexandria, Indiana, has been single for ten years. She, however, says that is “on the lookout for number 24”."It’s been years since I walked down the aisle. I miss it," the Sun quoted her as saying. Presently staying in a retirement home, Linda said that she has never cheated on a hubby. ANI