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BRIGADE INSIGHT

For private circulation only VOL. 15 NO. 1 THE NEWSLETTER OF THE RELEASED IN APRIL 2011

In this issue: Building Commercial Capital Interview with Kofi A. Boateng Centre for Indian Music Experience ’s expanding horizon! Going a good shade of green Graduation time again! The silent killer

Sheraton Hotel at Brigade Gateway. WTC Bangalore is to the right. Sky-bridge leads to Orion Mall. ARTIST’S IMPRESSION 2 3

BRIGADE AV ING entered our 25th year of operations, demand for space and services are met, if one has to Hafter a lot of internal deliberations, I am stop proliferation of slums in urban centres. There INSIGHT happy to release the organisation’s Shared Vision is a great need to decentralise growth by ensuring and Mission statements and Core Values. This should development of each and every district and Vol. 15 No. 1 Released in April 2011 stand in good stead for the decade ahead and give taluk centre. Brigadiers a clear sense of direction, enabling them to work with a unified sense of purpose and to The State and Central budgets for 2011 Fo r p r i v a t e achieve set goals and objectives. have been passed. Unfortunately, circulation o n l y Every Brigadier has to remember policies and tax rates are being and constantly remind oneself of tinkered with frequently, leading Br i g a d e In s i g h t A few thoughts ... is published by the Brigade Group’s core values and to confusion and a loss of direction Corporate Communications ensure these shared values are not to the business community. Real Dept of Brigade Group compromised in any way. Estate hardly finds favour with the Co-ordinating Ed i t o r : tax authorities. A few examples: Mathew Abraham Sheraton Bangalore Hotel at in Karnataka, stamp duty rates

Ed i t o r i a l Brigade Gateway, which had on Joint Development Agreements Co n s u l t a n c y & De s i g n : its soft opening in mid-March, have been increased by an Resource Communications has received very encouraging unbelievable proportion and the feedback from guests and ind- VAT applicability principle in the Br i g a d e En t e r p r i s e s Lt d Hulkul Brigade Centre ustry professionals. This well- construction industry has changed 82, Lavelle Rd, appointed 230-room, 5-star deluxe to compound the confusion. In Bangalore 560 001 hotel with six F&B outlets and a the Centre, tax exemption to SEZ Ph: +91-80-4137 9200 1000-seater banquet hall, is bound to be amongst the units is withdrawn by imposing MAT; Service Tax is Fax: +91-80-2221 0784 best hotels in Bangalore, and will be the pre-eminent imposed for hospitality business … the list goes on [email protected] BrigadeGroup.com Sheraton Hotel in the country. General Manager and on. Martin Wuethrich from Switzerland and Executive Chef Gustavo Maurelli from Italy will bring their Anna Hazare’s anti-corruption campaign was much international expertise to lead Sheraton Bangalore in needed and, hopefully, will serve as an eye opener to the path of success. the government and corrupt people. The spontaneous response to Anna’s fast from all sections of society It is a fantastic achievement by the Indian Cricket was most encouraging and heartwarming. High Team to have won the ODI World Cup, after a corruption in society is what is coming in the way of gap of 28 years. It is very difficult to live up to ’s planned and sustained growth, and stopping expectations, having been the favourites to win the the country moving from good to great. If people’s Cup. The credit undoubtedly goes to the players for simmering discontent about corruption in every An ISO 9001-2008 their outstanding teamwork, superb leadership of sphere of life is to be avoided, fast and inclusive Property Developer Captain Dhoni and Coach Kirsten, and performing development across the country is the only answer. when it mattered most in the knock-out stage. Otherwise, Egypt’s Tahrir Square kind of situation is Many analogies can be drawn to the corporate not far off in our country. If one determined Narendra world from the strategies adopted in winning Modi and one determined Nitish Kumar can make so the Cup. much of a difference in Gujarat and Bihar, imagine what a small of such people could do to the India’s 2011 provisional census figures, indicating growth of India. By showing honesty and progress, a population of 1.2 billion+, is certainly a cause for if Nitish Kumar can get 80%+ seats in the Assembly worry, and not celebration. Speedy urbanisation (highest ever by any party in any state in the country is a matter of great concern to city planners. since elections came to be held), why don’t other Meeting the infrastructural needs of the growing politicians realise good development will ensure re- election and continuance in power? IN THIS ISSUE: population will be a huge, daunting task. Our planners have to work overtime to ensure that Let us hope for the best! —M. R. Jaishankar, CMD Sheraton Bangalore at Brigade Gateway...... 4 Building Commercial Capital...... 6 Interview with Kofi A. Boateng...... 8 OUR SHARED Centre for OUR CORE VALUES Indian Music Experience...... 9 MISSION Giving young minds To constantly endeavour QC—FIRST a hand...... 10 OUR SHARED to be the Preferred Quality VISION Developer of Residential, Showcasing Brigade...... 11 Fair Commercial and * Mysore’s expanding To be a Customer Hospitality spaces in * horizon!...... 12 World Class Innovative the markets in which Organisation in Going a good shade we operate, without * of green...... 13 our Products, Responsible compromising on our Processes, People Socially The New MLR Convention Core Values, for the benefit and Performance * Centre, Whitefield...... 14 of all our Stakeholders Trustworthy Graduation time again!...... 17 The silent killer...... 18 Union Budget...... 22 4

Bene, the Italian restaurant SHERATON BANGALORE AT BRIGADE GATEWAY

Sheraton Bangalore at Brigade Gateway, the first newly built and managed Sheraton in India by Starwood Hotels and Resorts, Inc.

Feast, the show kitchen

Sheraton Bangalore is a perfect combination of warm Indian hospitality and international standards of service. With a strategic location, the hotel offers myriad activities guests can enjoy for business or pleasure.

Persian Terrace, roof-top dining

Link @ Sheraton experienced with Microsoft Durbar, unwind in royal style 5

The editorial team of Brigade Insight met up with Gustavo Maurelli, “Celebrity Chef” with Starwood Hotels and Resorts. Prior to joining Sheraton Bangalore, he was the Executive Guest Rooms: The hotel has 230 spacious Chef at Le Meridien Chiang Mai in Thailand and has 28 years of experience at various guest rooms and suites. With the largest entry hotels globally. Born to Italian and Canadian parents, he speaks English, Italian and Spanish size room in Bangalore, every room is designed proficiently. He has been instrumental in creating innovative and creative food and beverage with contemporary colour palettes of earthy concepts and has now earned the title “Celebrity Chef” with Starwood Hotels and Resorts. tones and plush fabrics. Guests can experience the comforts of the Sheraton Sweet SleeperTM beds, four fixture bathroom and thoughtful Gustavo Maurelli features like high-speed internet access, Teledapt panel—latest technology that offers plug and Executive Chef, Sheraton Bangalore play connectivity and generous work spaces in every room. Born : In Uruguay of Italian parents, grew up in Toronto and Italy Link @ Sheraton experienced with Home : The World Microsoft is a signature Sheraton experience. School : Culinary College, Toronto, Canada Located in the lobby, guests can surf the Inspiration : Family INTERVIEW web on the terminals or bring their laptop for Other Passions : Photography, Art, Classic Cars complimentary wireless broadband. Favourite Dish to Cook at Home : Argentinean BBQ Sheraton Fitness Programmed by Core Most Inspirational Chefs : Susur Lee, Adrian Ferran Most Used Cookbook : Art Culinar Performance delivers state-of-the-art perform- Favourite Ingredients : Fresh herbs, Micro greens, Salts ance solutions. The fitness centre allows you to incorporate your exercise routine into your busy schedule, with access available 24 hours a day. Q. Can you share with us any memora- the interaction as interesting and fun. Angsana Spa: Feel totally pampered with ble experiences during your career? I particularly enjoyed cooking for US a visit to the spa offering 10 treatment rooms There are several memora- President George Bush, and a range of personalised services. ble experiences during my “When I saw Keiko walk Robert de Niro, famous Sheraton Club Lounge: Situated on the career. One among them into the restaurant in Hollywood actor, and the 16th floor, with an eye-catching view of the is a cake which was baked Toronto on her birthday, I Prime Minister of Japan. lake, the Club Lounge offers an exquisite specially for American wanted to impress her. The tight security and the spread of breakfast in the wee hours, while during the invasion number of security checks in the evening hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, of Iraq. The cake was 5 … I personally made it involved makes cooking cocktails, beer, wine and non-alcoholic beverag- metres long by 1.5 metres [tiramisu] for her. Keiko for prominent public es create an atmosphere to connect. The Club height and 1.5 metres loved the tiramisu so figures very difficult. guests can also enjoy complimentary access to width. 7,000 eggs were much that she insisted the meeting room for one hour everyday. used for baking this cake. on meeting me. Soon it Q. Bene, the Italian Conference Venues: 1750 sq. mts of The cake weighed 1,500 led to marriage.” restaurant at Sheraton event space devoted to 11 distinctive meeting kilos and it took 6 days Bangalore, will be your rooms. The hotel boasts of having the largest of baking around the clock to complete. pet project. Can you share with us pre-function area in the city, spread across 615 It was a big challenge to bake this cake how the experience at Bene will be sq. mts. Every venue can be transformed into a but the smiles on the faces of American different from other Italian restau- truly unique setting for every occasion, backed soldiers was well worth the effort! rants in Bangalore city? by professional Sheraton Meeting Concierge. I think the first thing you will notice when Gather over a meal: With access to 6 Q. Tiramisu is your specialty and you come to Bene for lunch or dinner will be the personalised service. restaurants and bars, there are plenty of I believe it actually triggered the romance between you and your wife. You will feel the passion that is Italian cuisines to explore, ranging from casual to fine Can you share this anecdote with us? cooking, complemented by the best ingre- dining. The best way to a man’s heart is through dients imported specially for Bene. I have Bene is Sheraton’s signature Italian restau- his stomach; it developed a very special olive oil rant with cheerful colours, natural wood and is equally true menu, we have imported Balsamic stone. A key point of interest here is the “I particularly enjoyed for women. cooking for George Bush, the vinegars that are 100 years old, and famous Pizzaiolo at work at the Pizza bar. I courted my we will have our own herb garden Feast represents a “one-of-its kind” culinary wife Keiko Mori Prime Minister of Japan for the restaurant. concept using fresh ingredients in creative and with tiramisu. and famous Hollywood I pride myself in building relation- enticing show kitchens featuring Indian, South When I saw actor Robert de Niro” ships with my guests by personal East Asian and Western cuisines. Keiko walk into service and with the philosophy that Persian Terrace at dusk transforms into an the restaurant in Toronto on her birthday when you come to Bene you are not just outdoor Middle-Eastern wonderland. Delicious I wanted to impress her. I missed making coming to another Italian restaurant in kebab grills, pitas and naans are served with her main course, so I asked what she had Bangalore, but rather you are coming to delectable dips, chutneys and purees. ordered for dessert. When I was told it my house. Durbar welcomes you to the land of was tiramisu, I personally made it for her. maharajahs, where you groove to the lounge Keiko loved the tiramisu so much that she Q. What made you decide you would music while sipping your favourite martini and insisted on meeting me. Soon it led to become a professional chef? unwind in a royal style. marriage. We have been married for 14 My passion for food and the satisfac- Pool Bar offers innovative and refreshing years and have two lovely children. tion that you get when you can create a cocktails with scrumptious bar snacks. memorable experience for a person. The Lounge, located at the lobby level, Q. You have been a member serves a wide selection of international teas, of the prestigious Chaine des “You will feel the passion Q. What coffees, cocktails, wines, snacks and a light Rotisseurs club where you have that is Italian cooking, is your philosophy à la carte menu in a comfortable modern interacted with celebrities and royalty as well. Can you share complemented by the for success? setting with light background music. with us some of your experienc- best ingredients imported I believe in es and challenges of interacting specially for Bene …” keeping my MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME IN LUXURY with royalty. mind open to AT SHERATON BANGALORE I have interacted with several celebrities, new ideas; consistently trying something from prominent political figures to film new and trying to reinvent myself every SHERATON BANGALORE @ BRIGADE GATEWAY stars as well as royalty. I would describe day. Ph: +91-80-4252 1000 Fax: +91-80-4252 0100 www.sheraton.com/bangalorebrigadegateway 6 Building Commercial Capital Remember the story of the five are members of our clubs or stay ings to Bangalore’s blind men describing an elephant? at our Serviced Residences, we business-scape and Each one touches a different part assume another identity. Adults skyline. of the elephant and draws his and children connected with The As of today, own conclusions about what the Brigade Schools see us in yet B r i g a d e G r o u p ’ s object under study looks like. another light. Our growing retail commercial projects Well, Brigade Group seems to presence showcases a differ- under construction be much like the subject of this ent facet of our ‘appearance’. include an impressive fable. And then there’s our ‘commercial portfolio of commercial side’… premises, retail spaces, This elephant dances to many offices, SEZs and Summit @ Brigade Metropolis melodies … … including very commercially state-of-the-art soft- We are different things to successful ones ware facilities, namely Brigade ments we provide our customers different people; Slowly and steadily, over the Business Suites, Brigade Court, meet higher and higher stand- different entities years, Brigade Group has emerged Brigade Centre, Brigade Gardens, ards. We have earned a range of t o d i f f e r e n t as a major devel- Brigade Links, Brigade quality certifications, including the client bases. Our oper of commercial “You have to consider Majestic, Brigade MLR ISO 14001:2004 (Environmental most well-known properties. Inciden- your client. Only out of Centre, Brigade MM, Management System) and OHSAS identity may be tally, it may surprise that can you produce Brigade Plaza, Brigade 18001:2007 (Occupational Health that of residential you to know that our great architecture. Point, Brigade Seshama- and Safety Assessment System) You cannot work in the property develop- maiden project was hal, Brigade Software certifications. abstract.” Park, Brigade South ers; within which a commercial build- —I. M. PeI, Internationally category we are ing, Brigade Towers. acclaimed architect Parade, Brigade Square, Excellent properties draw especially known In its time, it was the Summit, Brigade Terrac- excellent clients for our enclaves: tallest building constructed by a es, Brigade TechPark, The Arcade We are fortunate to have a client Gardenia, Millen- private property developer in and—most recently—the 32-level portfolio that covers a range Brigade Towers nium, Gateway Bangalore. Since then, we’ve World Trade Center Bangalore. of categories. For instance, the and Metropolis. To those who contributed many new build- This iconic structure marks the client portfolio of World Trade ’s entry into the privi- Center Bangalore includes MNC’s, leged league of WTC buildings IT companies and professional In recognition of high standards worldwide. Together, the devel- services firms like Amazon, UEC Our rewards come in the form of recognition from clients… opments add up to over 3 million Technologies, H & M, QuadGen and the industry we are a part of: sft of commercial space. Brigade Wireless and . Clients at • Recognised as one of ‘India’s Top 10 Builders’ for 4 consec- Group offers both built-to-suit Summit, our commercial facili- utive years—2007-2010 by Construction World. office spaces as well as ready-to- ty at Brigade Metropolis, include • The World Trade Center Bangalore at Brigade Gateway occupy options. Capgemini Business Services received the ‘Best Commercial Project in India for 2010’ (India) Ltd, Ernst & Young Pvt. Ltd award from Property World. Certified quality (one of the largest professional • Recognised as the ‘Best Commercial Developer of the Year We have consistently upgraded services firms in the world), and 2011 in South India’ by Realty Plus. our efforts and inputs to ensure GE Healthcare Pvt. Ltd. the living and working environ-

“Best Commercial Developer 2011 in South India” “Best Commercial Project”

World Trade Center Bangalore @ Brigade Gateway has won the ‘Best Commercial Project of the Year’ in the prestigious Property World Awards for 2010 held at ITC Maratha, Mumbai on December 15, 2010. The winners were chosen by a collegium of over 60 industry leaders from the real estate developer community, banking and finance industry, international and domestic property consultants and accessories and intermediaries industry.

R. Ashoka, Honourable Minister for Home and Transport, Karnataka, presenting the award to M. R. Jaishankar, CMD, Brigade Group. Roshin Mathew, COO, Brigade Group, and Manjunath Prasad, VP, Brigade Gateway Project, are also seen.

Brigade Group won the ‘Best Commercial About the Award Developer of the Year 2011 in South The Realty Plus Awards acknowledge the India’ Award at the Realty Plus Excellence extraordinary contribution made by real Awards 2011 (South) held at ITC Windsor estate organisations in terms of quality, Manor, Bangalore on 3 February. This is the product innovation and customer satisfac- third year that Brigade Group has received an tion. A highly qualified jury, comprising the award at the annual Realty Plus Awards. On who’s who of the real estate industry and the two earlier occasions, the awards were for other stakeholders, selects winners across (l to r) Subesh Ray, JMD, Lemongrass Advisors; Manjunath ‘Regional Developer of the Year—South’. categories. Prasad and M. N. Balasubramanian of Brigade Group. 7 Brigade Group and WTC Bangalore host networking meet

Brigade Group and World Trade Center Bangalore jointly hosted a dinner-recep- tion in honour of Kofi Boateng, COO, World Trade Centers Association, New York, at the Taj West End on 31 January. Murugesh R. Nirani, the Honourable Minis- ter for Large and Medium Scale Industries, was the Guest of Honour. The dinner was an opportunity for the WTC team to interact with industry leaders and discuss the synergy of them coming under one platform using the World Trade Center brand.

Murugesh R. Nirani, Honourable Minister for Large and Medium Scale Industries, Karnataka, addressing the gathering as Balaram Menon, MD, WTC Bangalore; Kofi Boateng, COO, WTCA, New York; and M. R. Jaishankar, CMD, Brigade Group; look on.

K. V. Raju, Economic Advisor to Government of Karnataka, addressing the gathering. A cross- of the audience.

Co r e Ne t Gl o b a l Su m m i t , Ho ng Ko ng

The three-day CoreNet Global Summit, held between 22-24 March in Hong Kong, leveraged on the collective experience of members and participants to address shared concerns of critical importance to both the industry and the profession. Brigade Group was the Silver Sponsor of the well-received conference which drew over 400 delegates. It gave the Brigade team an opportunity to interact with industry leaders and showcase the World Trade Center Bangalore on an international platform.

Definingly different

BRIGADE RUBIX, HMT TOWNSHIP, NORTH BANGALORE The name echoes the game: the design of Brigade Rubix is based on the geometric formation of the famous Rubik Cube—every 3 floors, blocks turn at an angle to create a unique façade. Brigade Rubix is designed as a mixed-use tower, offering both retail and office spaces. The building comprises ground plus 11 floors and has two levels of basement parking. The building is designed with a central core, around which all services and office spaces are located. This gives every office unit an ‘outside’ view and plenty of natural light and ventilation. Office space starts from the third floor onwards. Typical office areas range between 1,300 sft to 15,000 sft, with certain offices having their own breakout space. Retail options are located on the lower floors, with a proposed cafeteria at the second floor level. Facilities include dedicated power and power back up. Set at the junction of major roads in HMT Township, North Bangalore, Brigade Rubix is easily accessible and in proximity to Outer Ring Road and the proposed Metro station.

Office spaces ranging from 1,300 sft to 15,000 sft 8

B. I. : What were your first reactions on B. I. : Any advice to the industries here seeing World Trade Center Bangalore and before you leave? the Brigade Gateway enclave? K. B. : Well, the Brigade Group is doing this K. B. : The first time I saw it was when I was in a manner that isn’t normal among most coming from the airport. I saw the sign, a World Trade Centers. WTCs, typically, start billboard (hoarding) about it with the services while they on the road. I said wow! It “… Wow! … very impressive! are putting together their was very impressive!” It told … Most of the WTCs—I would arrangements, their deals, me that WTC Bangalore is and their construction. INTERVIEW say 99 % of them—don’t have alive, WTC Bangalore wants You are doing every- anything like [this]. So it is to make its mark … This is thing at the same time. before I saw the facilities …. very unique ... when I saw the I mean it is a very huge—a Actually I think that except [WTC Bangalore] facilities, it monumental—undertaking. in Belgium, where they have just blew me away! Now the challenge: It is as if some thing like this, most of you decided to manufacture the WTCs—I would say 99 % of them—don’t a car when there was never one before. So you have anything like that. So it is very unique are thinking “okay, I want to do away with the what you guys are doing. And then when I horse, I want to do away with people walking, saw the facilities, it just blew me away! do away with people carrying things. Now I want to put it all in the car, so it means B. I. : What are your expectations from we have to plan to make sure there is space the World Trade Center Bangalore? for the luggage, the space for people to sit K. B. : My number one expectation is that it and not be wet”. So that is the challenge: to Kofi A. Boateng will be very successful. It would not just have get all the pieces to come together and make COO, World Trade Centers the facilities/services in terms of office space, sure one doesn’t dominate the other and push Association (WTCA) but also enhance trade promotion as well— them out. New York because that is our idea, that is our gold standard for the World Trade Center—to do both the facilities and the Kofi Boateng has previously held trade promotion services. Bangalore is the perfect several important positions: the COO place to do that. Because of the Africa-America Institute (AAI), you have businesses coming New York, and Executive Director from abroad and we have of the National Puerto Rican Forum businesses growing inter- nally that need signa- (NPRF), New York. A native of ture, well-known quality Ghana, he speaks English, French addresses. You get that, and Spanish, besides his native Twi. so that’s really not the problem. The challenge is going to be pooling them Boateng was recently in Bangalore, together so that they can visiting the World Trade Center see a common purpose. Bangalore at Brigade Gateway. Here B. I. : From your inter- are excerpts from his conversation action with the indus- with Brigade Insight: try leaders here … do they see the synergy of them coming under one B. I. : Is this your first trip to India and platform and using the how has the experience been? World Trade Center? K. B. : I’ve been very impressed by the energy in K. B. : Some think they India. I’ve been impressed by entrepreneurship. do … most don’t. In this I’ve been impressed by improvement in gener- place you have several al; in people’s standard of living. For example, Chambers of Commerce, in Dubai you would think that, obviously, there are business associa- since India has a huge population, that it’s tions. I told all of them: going to take a while to solve all the social “This is nothing more than problems. You putting up an umbrella “… Not just have the would think when it’s raining; there are facilities/services in terms people would many droplets and then of office space, but also be unhappy, everybody runs to be dry. but everybody If you put one umbrella— enhance trade promotion seems to be a big umbrella—then they as well—that is our idea, comfor t able, can come under it. But that is our gold standard. acceptable and they are still the same Bangalore is the perfect accepted. And people. Think about it like place to do that. that’s very the Olympics. There is only hopeful. I have one Olympics in any year, been watching TV and I am impressed by the but underneath that we level of discussion, debates on the national have different sports going issues … so generally very positive. on. Don’t stop doing what Coming down to Bangalore, I’m impressed you are doing. You can all by the integration of nature to the devel- find a nicer place to meet opment of the city—that the city is not … a more prestigious place being developed at the expense of nature. to meet. There is a lot to It’s been integrated with its soul. It’s like do together and that’s Bangalore has been green long before any what World Trade Center one heard of it. Bangalore brings in. 9

Centre for Indian Music Experience: breaking new ground

The Bhoomi Pooja of the Centre for Indian Music Experience, held on 3 Febru- ary at the Brigade Millennium campus in J. P. Nagar, marked the breaking of new ground— both literally and symbolically. On one hand, it was an auspicious precursor to the start of the construction of a museum building. On a more symbolic note, it signalled the exciting beginning of a first-of-its-kind experiential music experience within India. In harmony with the creative spirit intrinsic to the IME, Manasi Prasad, Head, Music Project, and her Guru, R. K. Padmanabha, Centre for Indian Music Experience, Brigade Millennium Campus, J. P. Nagar. CONCEPT IMAGE performed an impromptu jugalbandi of Carnatic music. Representatives from Brigade Millennium, musicians, members of the Brigade Millen- Centre. It is a premier conference and performance venue in the city nium Welfare Trust and Brigade management were amongst the appre- and is fast emerging as a cultural hub of South Bangalore, with a host ciative audience. of arts events organised regularly. It is expected that the Centre for IME, to be launched in 2012, in conjunction with the MLR Convention IME and MLR Convention Centre Centre as a supplementary performance venue, will become a unique Adjacent to the proposed site for the IME is the MLR Convention cultural landmark in the city.

Gallery with interactive installations that provide immersive experience. CONCEPT IMAGE Gallery of musical instruments. CONCEPT IMAGE

Bhoomi Poojas held during this quarter:

• Brigade Exotica • Brigade IRV Centre • SEZ @ • Brigade Pinnacle • Brigade Rhapsody Old Madras Road, Bangalore Whitefield, Bangalore Ganjimut, Mangalore Derebail, Mangalore Palace Cross Road, Bangalore

In appreciation Vijayalakshmi Rao, Thank you for the BRIGADE GATEWAY I sincerely wanted to thank Willfred Dias in Brigade Metro- I received your wonderful collection of old Hindi melodies and the polis Team for all the interactions new calendar. Thank you. The audio collection is exceptionally good and I have been having with him for I am extremely happy with the nostalgic. —MOHAN RANGARAO, MYSORE the last six months. Some of services rendered by you [Viswa the things which come to my Prathap Desu] personally and Thank you very much for your desk calendar, which is lucky for me mind immediately are: the entire team at Brigade. It is and regulates my whole year. My album of the melodies of golden era • Consistent and prompt very rare to find such a helpful is getting richer every year because of you. Hearty congratulations on response for all the your past achievements and many more to happen in the coming years. queries raised… and trustworthy builder in . Everyone was so helpful —RTN VINAY KUMAR PODDAR, BANGALORE • Excellent guidance and details provided for any when I came to Bangalore queries... for taking possession—Harini, • Realistic in commitments Naveen, Geetha, Nadegowda, and sticking to the David, Umashanker and also the same… Tandem team who managed to • Extremely responsive on fix up a tenant for me so quickly. any form on queries…. Kudos to the entire team at Brigade. Keep up the good work!

Santhosh Vandyil, Brigade Metropolis

Who Owns the Mongrel ? Solution to the Puzzle in the last issue of Insight: The Punjabi drinks the lassi. The Bengali owns the Malleswaram Mongrel. We received quite a few responses. The first off the block were: 1) Siddharth Sharma, A303, Mayflower, Brigade Millennium 2) Rukmini Menon, D-402 Brigade Regency 3) Naresh Sunkara 4) Vineeth Kowshik. We thank all those who sent in their solutions—right or wrong! 10

Making a difference to the Fire Station Office

(l to r) N. Shivakumar, IPS (Inspector General of Police, Karnataka Fire & Emergency Services), Dr D. V. Guruprasad, IPS (Director General of Police, Home Guards, Civil Defence & Fire Services), M. R. Jaishankar (CMD, Brigade Group). Seen at the back (l to r): B. G. Chengappa (Director, Karnataka Fire & Emergency Services), Manjunath Prasad (VP, Brigade Gateway Project), B. K. Hamppagol (Deputy Director–Tech., Karnataka Fire & Emergency Services), Roshin Mathew (COO, Brigade Group). As part of its CSR initiative, Brigade Group remodeled and renovated the CFO’s office building at Highgrounds Fire Station. A concrete roof was constructed to replace the existing temporary roof and an office for the CFO, work stations, rest rooms and toilets were constructed and fully furnished. The new premises were inaugurated on 8 March. Senior police and fire services officials expressed their appreciation to M. R. Jaishankar, CMD, Brigade Group, for the excellent building and amenities.

Exterior view of Highgrounds Fire Station.

iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii Safety in Focus Visit to Mahindra World City, Jaipur Brigade Group observed Safety Week, between 28 Feb and 5 March, with a series of events designed to promote safety awareness. These included safety quiz competitions, the demonstration of 108 EMRI at sites, tool box talks on various topics at construction sites, fire-fighting demonstrations, distribution of safety badges and taking of the safety pledge on National Safety Day (4 March).

Sanjay Sinha, VP, Mahindra World City, Jaipur, greets M. R. Jaishankar. M. R. Jaishankar, CMD, Brigade Group, recently visited Mahindra World City, the Integrated Business City and SEZ project in Jaipur.

Giving young minds a hand The Brigade Merit Awards/Scholarships were presented at a function held on 24 Feb at the R.V. College of Engineering, Bangalore. The Brigade Scholarship—for two meritori- ous students of I and II Rank, who have scored the highest aggregate marks from 1st to 6th semester—was awarded to Prithvi Raj P. (I Rank) and Jayantip (II Rank). The Brigade Merit Award—for students who have scored the highest aggregate marks from 1st to 8th semester and top the merit list—was present- ed to Saloni Agarwal (I Rank) and Pranay Priyaa Sathyamurthi, Jayantip, Prithvi Raj P., Pranay Prakash, Saloni Agarwal, Jagan Mohan, Arindam Mukherjee, Prakash (II Rank). Prof. B. S. Satyanarayana—Principal RVCE, Prof. B. L. Shivakumar—HOD of Civil Dept., RVCE, and Sreenivasa Reddy. 11

Showcasing choice properties from Brigade Citibank Dubai event HDFC Property show

Brigade at the Citibank event at Dubai. M. R. Jaishankar, CMD, Brigade Group, and Srikantadutta Wodeyar of the Mysore royal family, look at the exhibits. Brigade participated in a Citibank event held at Raffles Hotel, Brigade participated in the HDFC event on March 26 and 27, Wafi, Dubai, in Jan 2011. at HDFC’s office on Kasturba Road. Brigade Homefest, the exclusive property show of a portfo- It was a niche, invite based event, restricted to five lio of Brigade projects in Bangalore and Mysore, was organised developers only. at Doha, Dubai and Abu Dhabi in first week of Dec 2010.

Brigade Omega, Thurahalli. Namma Metro A view of near fo res t c ove r Brigade Gateway from a city residence!

Thurahalli Forest Road.

Brigade Omega is a 6-acre residential devel- opment, located opposite the Thurahalli Forest Reserve, off Kanakapura Road, South Bangalore. Luxuriously designed 2-, 3- and 4-bedroom apartments are spread across three SRINIVAS towers. Brigade Omega also houses a host of Work at the Yeshwanthpur Metro Station, amenities, including a full-fledged clubhouse which is located adjacent to Brigade Gateway with swimming pool, gym, party area, indoor enclave, has reached the half-way mark. games room and recreation room. Work on , Kuvempu Road and With a rare view of forest cover and a Malleswaram Metro stations is also progress- wide access road, Brigade Omega is an abode ing well. —Bangalore Metro Rail Newsletter. of calm, peaceful and luxurious living. nithinu.blogspot.com

Team Brigade takes Runners-up Trophy Time out on the Tee Brigade Group was the Silver sponsor of the BCIC Corporate Golf Tournament, held at the Karnataka Golf Association (KGA) on 26 February. The event drew participation from over 100 enthusiastic golfers.

Team Brigade Team Brigade won the Runners-up Trophy at the Cricket Tournament conducted by Bangalore Sports Club at the and NRA grounds. Twenty-four corporates vied for the grand prize—the ICICI trophy. 12

Mysore’s expanding horizon!

Mysore has always been considered Karnataka’s cultural capital. A centre Mysore’s Competitiveness of education, research and intellectual and cultural activity, Mysore is home City Competitiveness Report 2010* to institutions and establishments that used over 800 indicators to measure reflect both its history and urbanism. the competitiveness of 50 Indian cities. As the former seat of the Wodeyar The top 10 cities were: Delhi, Chennai, dynasty, its royal past and traditions Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Hydera- have made it a tourist destination that bad, Ahmedabad, Pune, Nagpur and never failed to impress. And its salubri- Jaipur. ous climate and laid-back lifestyle Mysore Palace Mysore City’s Rank 32 further added to its appeal. Overall competitiveness 51.04 An emerging identity Financial 53.49 Mysore has steadily moved out of Physical 46.43 Bangalore’s shadow—it is now the Communication 53.37 second largest software exporter in Administrative 56.17 the state—to forge an identity of its own. The ringing of the NASDAQ bell Human Capacity 49.13 in the city, which coincided with the Innovation 54.95 silver jubilee of Infosys, was symbolic Score 51.81 in more ways than one. *Released by the Institute for Vasanth Mahal Competitiveness (IFC) http:// Change: More people, competitiveness.in/archives/2010/12/10/ more opportunities All photographs are actual shots from Brigade Horizon. Mysore’s population, estimated at 7.10 lakh in Census 2001, is expected to register strategic advantage—one that is improving with one-million in this year’s census*. This growth is new initiatives in transportation and infrastructure. Brigade Homefest @ Mysore spurred on and reflected in areas that include educa- ‘Bridging the gap’ is becoming a reality through tion; business, commercial and industrial domains; upgradations in air, rail and road connectivity, includ- Brigade Homefest was conducted infrastructure; retail and real estate. ing the construction of a national 164-km express- in Mysore on January 22 and 23 to way (the NICE corridor) between the two cities. showcase the model flats of Brigade Quicker and better access Horizon and Brigade Sparkle. Being just 140 km from the state capital is a * Based on the population growth index of 22.2 per cent for Mysore.

BRIGADE HORIZON SHOW FLAT

Living room at Brigade Horizon, Mysore 13

Sustainable Architecture & Green Habitat It’s an idea that is gather- ing force across the world: sustainable or green archi- Going a good shade of green tecture. The aim is to use environmentally-conscious The idea of building Green is to apply new thinking to the design techniques to create way we build, refashion, renovate and develop our dwellings

ARTIST’S IMPRESSION structures that adhere to and promote sustainable and societies. It calls for an understanding of the interactions living. It is hoped that this between building site, building design, architectural and mechan- enlightened approach to ical systems and other crucial aspects. Lastly, it mandates an the built environment will attitude that enables healthy, mutually beneficial relationships help minimise the negative between human, technological and natural systems. environmental impact of How about a new way of living: intelligent living? A development by enhancing lifestyle wherein you practice energy conservation, water efficiency and moderation in the use of materials, conservation, efficient solid waste management, energy efficient energy and space. lighting system, rainwater harvesting, water recycling; not just to express your commitment to the environment, but also to Concept in action accumulate on savings. How about a home which provides you One example of this idea enhanced daylight and ventilation; A home with low volatile in action is currently organic compounds so that you can breathe easy; A home that underway at Brigade provides protection from solar radiation to prevent heat gain in Exotica, our premium luxury apartment project the premises during the day? Architects: CnT, Bangalore. on Old Madras Road. Brigade Exotica is a project that answers these questions The project has been designed with a focus on open space and a affirmatively. It is designed not just to provide you with a landscape theme of dense forests—thereby living up to its name and luxurious lifestyle but ensures that you live in harmony with the the experience it wishes to offer future residents. environment. It is Gold Pre-certified from IGBC, based on the globally renowned LEED Rating System, and is built accord- Easy flow between inside and out ing to the parameters set by them. It has complied with all the The project will comprise 456 apartments spread over two 35-storey blocks. Each block will have a spacious, imaginatively landscaped inter- features of making a world class Green Home. And this Green nal atrium. Apartments have been designed on a courtyard/aangan Home endows you with the greatest luxury—of saving energy concept: living rooms are planned around large patios, which infuse and water up to 40% and 50% respectively. the entire unit with sunlight and fresh air. (Incidentally, the patios are large enough to accommodate really dense landscaping, including Landscape design by Tropland Studio, Bali. small woody trees.) The hierarchy of internal spaces allows for effort- less flow between areas and a feeling of space and boundlessness. This is furthered by the large corner windows in the bedroom.

A unique floor plan All units and buildings in the campus are designed to face outward.

The unique floor plan has apartment spaces arranged around the IMPRESSION ARTIST’S patio, with only regular living spaces inside. This allows every apart- ment to have a different view and ensures no apartment will look into another.

Self-contained Set in a lush, green, ten-acre campus, Brigade Exotica will overlook serene lakes. and quiet Features and facilities will include a clubhouse with a range of sports facilities, indoor and outdoor (pool-side) party areas and a retail

building with a restau- ARTIST’S IMPRESSION rant. Careful layout and planning will ensure that vehicular interfer- ence is minimised. Exotica Show flat—Dining and open kitchen Playground area

K. R. Puram–Budigere stretch a good long-term investment

Sudhakar Mani, an IT professional, did a 15-20 minutes”, he said. prospective buyers. Byappanahalli, the Metro lot of due diligence before he booked his The KR Puram-Budigere stretch is emerg- rail hub, is also on the OMR. S. Mohan, assis- second villa. He factored in better connectiv- ing as a good long-term property invest- tant VP, India Business in Pruksa Global, says ity and bare minimum travel time before he ment option. The 8-lane highway developed this belt has a lot of potential. zeroed in on a property at Budigere, off Old by National Highway Authority of India Madras Road (OMR). ”With roads being (NHAI) is a big draw. Proximity to the IT hub —Source: Shilpa Phadnis | TNN widened, this is the best bet in terms of of Whitefield and improved connectivity to connectivity. I can reach my office in ITPL in the airport has generated interest among 14 Brigade HOSPITALITY SERVICED RESIDENCES | CLUBS | CONVENTION CENTRE | HOTELS | RESORTS & SPAS “Is Ethics in Business an Oxymoron?”

This new and modern convention centre is Bhaskar Bhat shares his spread over 55,000 sft and has several great venues with contemporary facilities. Some of thoughts with Brigadiers the venues include: • Auditorium—The spacious auditorium can seat at the new 800 people. It has a large stage with a green room on either side. This high-end auditorium is equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual infra- MLR Convention Centre structure • Conference Rooms—The convention centre has two well furnished conference rooms, suitable for meetings and training sessions. Both the confer- ence rooms have a seating capacity of 100 people and can be used concurrently. • Banquet Hall—This aesthetically designed space can accommodate around 600 people. It is ideal for banquets, conferences, seminars, brand launches and exhibitions. An added advantage is the large pre-function area located before the banquet hall. Additional facilities include a well equipped kitchen, car parking, business centre facilities and a cafeteria. The MLR Convention Centre at Whitefield has been created to cater to the corporate sector. Its flexible venues can be customised to suit varied business needs.

One of the first events at the new MLR Convention Centre. Bhaskar Bhat (inset), MD, Titan Industries Ltd, and Manoj Chakravarti, COO , IIM Bangalore, and Senior Advisor—Corporate, Titan Industries Ltd, addressing Brigadiers.

BRIGADE GROUP’s first town-hall quarterly meet, on 16 April, proved to be an inspiring ‘opening act’ for the new MLR Convention Centre, off Whitefield Road. Bhaskar Bhat, MD, Titan Indus- tries, gave a thought-provoking lecture—Is Ethics in Business an Oxymoron? The vision behind this convention centre is to establish it as a prominent destination for MLR Convention Centre, conducting cultural activities, corporate events, exhibitions and social functions. It is strategically The Brigade School campus, 4th Cross, located in Whitefield, which is a major hub for information technology companies. Mahadevapura, Whitefield. Ph: 98804 05439

Brigade Hospitality to shortly open Regent Club: Banyan Tree Resort a premium club at Brigade Metropolis. @ Chikmagalur The Hon’ble High The range of facilities at the Regent Club Court of Karnataka include: DISMISSED the public Food & Beverage: interest litigation filed • Restaurant—a multi-cuisine restaurant by some busy bodies which overlooks the swimming pool against the project. • Coffee shop • Bar with a separate Unfortunately Brigade smoking section Group lost nearly 3 Sports Facilities: years' time in this • Swimming pool and change room with litigation. lockers • Billiards • Squash • Badminton • Table Tennis • Play pen for children • Sports lounge Health Facilities: A new star in Galaxy Club ! Multi-purpose area REPRESENTATIVE IMAGE • Gymnasium with separate cardio and Berries and Barrels, a coffee and wine lounge, weights section • Health club with a sauna opened at the Galaxy Club in the Brigade Brigade Hospitality will be opening the exclu- and steam room • Multi-purpose area for Gateway enclave, on 18 April. M. R. Jaishankar, sive Regent Club at Whitefield soon. The conducting yoga / karate classes CMD, Brigade Group, was Chief Guest at the opening function. Regent Club will be tucked snugly amidst trees Entertainment Spaces: and landscaped gardens and will cover about • Banquet hall • Party area on the terrace 50,000 sft of built-up space. The club has Additional Facilities: been designed with sleek and contemporary • Salon with separate sections for ladies architecture and is meant only for the select and gents • Digital theatre few. It has a wide range of facilities to dine, entertain, exercise and socialise in a luxurious ambience. 15 FOLLOW US ON: New Year celebrations at The Woodrose The New Year was welcomed with great zest and excitement at The Woodrose club. A great ambience, enthusiastic crowd

Sword Dance performance by French Canadian dancer Essa Duhaime. Fashion Show.

and lots of free goodies for the started performing and competing at the age of eight. She has studied guests contributed to make this New a number of dance styles over the course of her dance career, includ- Year’s party a grand success. ing Ballet, Jazz and Hip Hop, but has been focusing on the Middle The highlight of the evening Eastern dance for the past 9 years. was the belly dance and sword Essa’s performance at The Woodrose club was ethereal and performance by the acclaimed French completely mesmerised the audience. In addition to belly dancing, Canadian dancer Essa Duhaime. Essa she also performed the sword dance. The sword dance focuses was born and raised in Quebec, on balancing the sword on the head, hip or other parts of the Canada. She began her formal dancer’s body while the dancer performs slow and deliberate movements Audience participating in the celebrations. dance training at the age of five and on the floor.

How we saw the World Cup

Meet Chef Mous apha— India–Sri Lanka World Cup Final at The Woodrose club. the new Chef at The Woodrose club The India-Sri Lanka World Cup final was Hello everyone, telecast live on a large screen at the amphi- Meet Chef Moustapha. theatre in The Woodrose club. The telecast Chef Moustapha has of the match on the large screen, combined been recently hired as the with the tension-filled moments of the match, new chef for The Woodrose club. a delicious spread of food and beverages and He has travelled across the world and an enthusiastic crowd, contributed to make has been trained in various cuisines. this event an extremely memorable one. He has introduced a variety of new dishes at the Melting Pot restaurant at The Woodrose club. However Chef Moustapha’s moustache has been the cause for great debate and Anisha Prabhu discussion at The Woodrose. Members were keen that he groom his moustache in the most creative way. Chef Moustapha has agreed to don his moustache as decided by the members.

The winners for the Moustache of the Month contest are: 1) Anisha Prabhu India–Pakistan World Cup Semi-final at the 2) Beena Prabhu Galaxy Club. 3) Atharu Gudi The India-Pakistan World Cup Semi-final was telecast live on a large screen at the Nebula 4) Sri Vidya Beena Prabhu restaurant at the Galaxy Club. A special menu was designed for cricket fans, which included delicacies such as Yuvi’s fish fingers, Dhoni’s Super Saute, Sachin’s Special “Bombay Pav Bhaji” and Harbhajan’s “Balle Balle” Aloo Tikki Mouth watering Augusta Club proudly announces the Sandwich. Complimentary tri-color cakes were introduction of a new caterer for also served to the club members. news for all Augusta Café—Ashwin Caterers. foodies! They have a rich experience in the catering field for the Kudos to the team ! last 18 years. They presently do It’s an excellent environment to catering at the Bangalore Golf be in, it’s like a second home Club and Century Club as well. with service being excellent in all Delicious Indian, Tandoori, departments. Kudos to the team. Chinese & Coastal Cuisine are now —H. Vishwanathan available at the Augusta Café. Guest, Homestead Jayanagar, 8th Block 16 Brigade Foundation

THE BRIGADE Mindspace Activity Day SCHOOL @ MALLESWARAM Mindspace Activity Day, … on 18 December, saw an inspiring display of posters and models Basketball Court Inaugurated made by students based on lessons learnt in class. To give parents a better understanding of the school’s integrated curric- ulum, each class gave a performance (through music, dance, drama, puppet show, art, yoga, and games) of all that was taught in class.

Our first Sports Meet Our Basketball court was inaugurated by Ms Githa Shankar, Chairper- Our first Intermural Sports son, Brigade Foundation. The court was inaugurated with a match Meet was held on 8 between the ‘Titans’ (The Brigade Foundation staff) and ‘The Soaring February. Children, smartly Seagulls’ (The Brigade School staff). The ‘Titans’ emerged victorious! dressed in school uniform, marched past dignitaries. After the oath—about playing in the true spirit Celebrating Festivals and Special Occasions of sportsmanship—was The spirit of Christmas was ushered in with a short musical play, ‘A shepherd’s story’. Students taken, torch bearers circled also sang carols and danced to the Christmas Polka. the field, torch held high. Students participated in performing pyramids, yogic postures and breathtaking aerobics. Teachers enjoyed the ‘left and right’ game. And our first Annual Day “Vignettes of the Sahyadris”, our Annual Day cultural extravaganza held on 18 March, was a resounding success.

Shankaranthi was celebrated with the song ‘Til gul ghya, god god bola’ (“Let us share sesame and jaggery, and talk and be good to each other”). Children also flew kites celebrating the ‘Kite festival’.

THE BRIGADE SCHOOL @ MAHADEVAPURA

Mindspace Activity Day: Imagination and artistic creativity

Mindspace Activity Day was held on 29 January with much Stds 1-3 displayed their singing excitement, fanfare and powers and nimble fun. On display was footwork by the curriculum-based, blending song and subject-oriented, art, craft dance with their subject-related and programmes of the topics. talented students of Stds 1-5. Rabindra Sangeet ‘Ami Chini Go Chini’ was beautifully rendered The Hindi skit, Vishwas, put up by students of Stds 4 by Stds 4 and 5, and 5. The rendition of reiterated that the French Song ‘Quel belief in oneself is temp faitil” brought the the most important mantra in today’s programme to a close. times. 17 www.BrigadeSchools.org

THE BRIGADE SCHOOL @ J. P. NAGAR How we fared in Intramural MSA Assemblies Literary Competition Prize inter-school Distribution—23 Dec competitions Mindspace Activity Day MI Odyssey—11 Dec For the second year in a row, The Students from Stds 1 to 12 exhib- Brigade School won the Overall ited a variety of well researched Navy and Armed Forces Day. Championship for the MI Odyssey projects—from simple charts to held at the Gear Innovative Inter- investigatory projects and working Navy and Armed Forces Day— national School. models—covering a wide range 1 Dec of subjects. Tribute was paid to the tireless Science Day—28 Feb Best House in MSA Literary Activities. and selfless service of our Defense Students of Std 8 won first place Winners of the MSA Day Kumaresh Krishnan of 10A won Personnel. Students of Std 10 in the Science Seminar and the Exhibits the award for Best Student in described the different roles and play on Sir C. V. Raman at the Mindspace Activities and Vijayana- responsibilities of the , Navy Inter-school Science Competition Category I (Stds 1 & 2) Winner: Dragon Hand Print (Std 1), gara House was declared the Best and the Air Force. conducted by the Visvesvaraya Runner Up: People who help us (Std1) House in Mindspace Activities. Technical Institute. Category II (Stds 3 to 5) World Aids Day—1 Dec Students of Std 11 made an Winner: Egyptian Civilization (Std 4), Pre-primary Annual Day IIO Runner Up: Physical Features (Std 4) informative presentation to those Category III (Stds 6 to 8) of Stds 9 and 12 on the preven- Gold Medalists: Winner: Jungle Book (Std 6) tion of AIDS and the rehabilita- Ujwal Nitin Nayak (Std 4B): Olympiad Runner Up: Handicrafts (Std 7) tion of AIDS victims. (Rank 25); Dhruv V. (Std 2C): Category IV (Stds 9 & 10) Olympiad (Rank 323) Winner: Reuben’s Tube (Std 10B), Christmas Special Assembly— Runner Up: Radio show (Stds 9 & 10) Uma Krishnan (Std 3C), Kartik Nair 23 Dec Variar (Std 5A), Shreya Subraman- Category V (Stds 11 & 12) Students of Stds 6 and 7 present- yan (Std 6A), Kriti Rajesh Bapnad Mumbai Local. DNA Extraction (Std 12), ed the Christmas Special Assem- (Std 6B), Vineeth Ellore (Std 8B), Chlorophyll content in leaves (Std 12) The theme was Goa & Mahar- bly. They sang several much loved Bharathb Kayyar (Std 9B), Kumaresh ashtra. Children of the Nursery Christmas carols as a very athletic Krishnan (Std 10A), Niharika B. (Std 11A), Bhavana B. (Std 12A) Special Visitors classes enthusiastically enacted Santa Claus (Mr Jaijagadish, our the Goan Wedding and the PTI) dashed through the Assembly Sirigannada External Examination three kings’ feast; dressed up to of students!! Abhilash S. Rao (Std 10B):State resemble some famous person- Rank 4 alities from different fields, and Swasthi Visnavi (Std 4C): State danced. The LKG children grace- Rank 5 fully danced too: in celebration of Siddant S. (Std 6B): State Rank 6 Ganesh Chathurthi, Holi and the Dhanush S. Bhargav (Std 7B): Kite festival. Finally, students of District Rank 3 Vibha Bhat (Std 8A): District Rank 4 the UKG put up a show depicting Peter Järves’en, Headmaster, Swedish Nitya Ravichandra (Std 5B): District School Göteborgs Högre Samskola, and his life in the suburbs of Mumbai, Rank 5 colleague, Nicke Bäcklund, paid a visit to our danced energetically to a Marathi school. Ashwini Akkunji, Gold Medalist in the CWG Anish S. Mysore (Std 3B): District song and the famous ‘Jai Ho’. Games, addressed the students during the Rank 6 assembly.

Graduation time again! Pre-Graduation Day for the fifth batch of tenth and the third batch of twelfth standard students was held on 11 Febru- ary at the MLR Convention Centre. Mr Harish Bijoor—Brand Expert, CEO of Harish Bijoor Inc., teacher and inspirational writer—graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. The dignitar- ies on the dais included Mr M. R. Jaishankar, CMD, Brigade Group; Ms Githa Shankar, Chairperson, Brigade Foundation; Ms Meera V. Rao, School Principal; and members of the Governing Council of the Brigade Foundation.

Prize winners announced! The toppers in academics were honoured. Kumaresh Krishnan and Medapati Kartik were declared the Best Outgoing Graduating Students of Std 12 Students of Stds 10 and 12 respectively.

A solemn ceremony The students of both the graduating classes walked up on stage to light their candles from “The Lamp of Knowledge”. Principal Ms Meera V. Rao proudly administered the pledge to the students. The ceremony concluded with the screening of a video that showed a touching rendition of the National Anthem by students who are speech and hearing impaired. Guests, parents, teachers and students then shared some happy moments and memories over High Tea.

Graduating Students of Std 10

For more info, please visit: www.BrigadeSchools.org 18 THE SILENT KILLE It is as dangerous as hypertension, diabetes or cardiac disease. And it is on the rise across the Common man’s world. In India this epidemic is spreading and travails … Tragically, this is A coincidence! growing from strength to strength. becoming a depress- Three weeks ago, ingly familiar aspect M. R. Jaishankar, CMD, had of everyday life for suggested that we more and more people. make corruption From access to basic necessities like water the subject of this The new “Big C“ (with as much power to and electricity to educating children to issue’s Snippets. As we go to decimate as its much feared namesake) is building a house to getting a job … print now, the corruption. And unfortunately, to continue almost every transaction seems to come fast-unto-death the parallel, a cure doesn’t seem in sight. with bribes attached. Nothing—from by Anna Hazare Rather, like a self-fulfilling prophecy, we tell getting a driver’s license to making a police is inspiring people from all walks of ourselves corruption is part of the Indian complaint—seems to get done without life to join the psyche … and we allow the disease to an inducement. peaceful protest perpetuate. The result is that ‘an eco-system against corruption. of corruption’ has evolved, insidiously. A new strain of License and Permit The 72-year old crusader’s campaign seems to be turning into a positive movement for Raj—crippling entrepreneurship change. This could be a defining moment for A season of scams … How can the prevailing conditions—in civil society in India. As revealed recently, the range and depth which bribery is the fuel of business—not of the ‘ecosystem of corruption’, includes kill enterprise, enthusiasm and entrepre- thousands of crores of public money misap- neurial vision? We are supposed to be living Far reaching effects of the Big C propriated, electoral fraud, land scams and in economically liberalised times, but how • Retard national development. diversion of funds to private trusts … and much has really changed since the post- (Corruption can slow down GDP growth. this could merely be the first signs of worse independence License Raj? Businessmen rank graft as their biggest to come. headache.) The blame also goes to … • Kill entrepreneurship and innovation. … and a monsoon It’s not just the big players • Jeopardise ethics both in public and of bribes that are at fault. The aam private sectors. India is getting richer. aadmi—people who apply • Damage democracy and stable In the next five-year for a ration card they are governance. plan period, $1 trillion will not entitled to, whose construc- • Political, economic and social unrest be spent on roads, railways, tions exceed sanctioned plans, who and rebellion? ports, defence. Abundance, and pay a policeman to avoid a ticket or drunken • Derail legal systems and procedures— the consumer culture, seems to be driving charge, anyone who gets preferen- and human rights. everywhere, for everyone to see, want … tial treatment because of speed money—all • Laws framed to benefit the powerful. and potentially enjoy. In this climate, as The power the problem. • Affect the sustainability of natural Economist says, “a monsoon of bribes is resources. forecast.” Symptoms: helplessness and • Affect the morale and morals of all hopelessness citizens. The root causes This sort of all-pervasive, blatant corrup- The basic causes of corruption generally fall tion brings with it the whammy of the into two categories: On the one hand— Double H: helplessness and hopelessness. need, inequity, absence of a level playing When it’s a battle against ‘The System’, Containment and cure to treat the symptoms … field. On the other—greed, and an unrelent- the results seem a foregone conclu- An effective cure can only be ingly consumerist culture. Underpinning sion. Even more dispiriting is the thought found through transparency, free both motivators of corruption are a general that, for the average aam aadmi or information flow and accountability:(RTI) to Information decline in moral standards and an eroding for an industrialist, there is nowhere to turn • The Right code of ethics and contentment. for redressal. The odds seem so daunting Act, 2005 that many of us find it easier to flow with • e-governance initiatives, Different manifestations of the the tide, to pay that bribe. • Effective ombudsman disease like the Lokpal and Lokayukta to fast-track courts Corruption appears in • Specialised different shapes: Bribery deal with corruption Corruption and punishment in cash or kind. Speed • Stiffer • Electoral reforms money. Nepotism. “Gifts” hypocrisy ought not to (like Wikileaks) • Whistleblowers and “junkets”. Favours. be inevitable products like • Citizens initiatives Abuse of power. Extor- of democracy, as they ipaidabribe.com and action, leading tion. Patronage or undoubtedly are today. • Public anger pressure that influ- —Mahatma Gandhi to change. (The Tahrir Square ences decisions. Insider ‘revolution’ in Egypt is a trading, match-fixing, recent example. Closer cash-for-votes. Money and power manipu- to home: Anna Hazare’s lating policy-making, even formation of a TRANSPARENCY INTERNATIONAL: hunger strike). ministry. And more. Corruption is a problem worldwide (Please see opposite page)

Continued on next page 19

Continued from previous page RAMPANT: Corruption. LACKING: Faith in the administrative machinery. the best of all: WANTED: Tangible proof of a strong government resolve to fight corruption. A holistic cure … A corruption-free society is TOWARDS A SOLUTION: Moving the Bill to Act a Utopian dream. Such a dream is realised FLASHBACK: In 1966 the Administrative Reforms Commission recommended the constitution of a two-tier body through utopian ideals. (a Lokpal at the Centre and Lokayuktas in the states) to function as a high-level ombudsman. Accordingly, two Our education system years later, the Lokpal Bill was presented at the fourth Lok Sabha, but did not make it through the Rajya Sabha. Several subsequent attempts to convert it into an Act—the most recent being 2001—also failed. Lack of support revolves around self- from the Centre is seen as the cause. centredness. For students and parents alike, it is all about how big a consumer one can be. It’s to do with escalating stand- THE ORIGINAL LOKPAL BILL ards of living. It’s not about being Aim inspired to serve society. Establishment of the institution of Lokpal to inquire • Complaints of offence committed within Our society needs to actively nourish into allegations of corruption against public function- 5 years from the date of offence can be the idea that quality of life trumps over aries and for matters connected therewith. taken up for investigation. standard of living and a consumerist • A public servant cannot make a complaint. existence. The idea of GNH (Gross National Key Features • The Lokpal is supposed to complete the Happiness) must triumph over GDP.  Members: A three-member body with a Chair- inquiry within a period of six months. person who is / was a Chief Justice or Judge • The Lokpal has the power of a civil court to of the Supreme Court; and two other members summon any person or authority. who are / were Judges or Chief Justices of High • After investigation, the ombudsman can Courts around the country. only recommend actions to be taken by the CORRUPTION IS A  Appointment: Chairperson and members competent authority. PROBLEM WORLDWIDE appointed by the President, on the recommen- • Lokpal can order search and seizure opera- dation of a specified committee. tions.  Provisions to ensure independence of the office: Some points of contention • The Lokpal is ineligible to hold any office of  No civil society representation. profit under Government of India or of any  Exclusion of Foreign Affairs, Security and the global coalition against corruption state, or similar such posts after retirement. Defense divisions, and bureaucrats and judges, CORRUPTION RUINS LIVES. FIGHT BACK. TAKE ACTION. • Fixed tenure of three years and can be from the Bill’s purview. removed only on the ground of proven  No provisions for recovery of losses faced by Transparency International is a global civil misbehaviour or incapacity after an inquiry the government due to corruption. society organisation leading the fight made by CJI and two senior-most judges of  Potential for biased / opportunistic appointments: against corruption. Along with global SC. The suggestion that political leaders sit on the indices and surveys, TI has engaged in a • Lokpal will have its own administrative Committee may lead to conflicts of interest number of innovative efforts to measure machinery for conducting investigations. if they come under scrutiny. Membership of corruption, transparency and governance.  Jurisdiction of Lokpal: retired judges to the board / committee could • The central level political functionaries like make sitting judges vulnerable to political influ- Corruption Perceptions Index 2010 the Council of Ministers, including the Prime ence. Nearly three quarters of the 178 countries Minister, the Members of Parliament etc.  Limitation of powers: The Lokpal is intended in the index score below five (Scale: 10 is • Lokpal cannot inquire into any allega- to be only an advisory body: doesn’t have the very clean, 0 is highly corrupt). tion against the PM in relation to latter’s authority to take suo moto action, to receive functions of national security and public complaints from the public and to register FIRs.

RANKING COUNTRY SCORE order. 1 Denmark 9.3 1 New Zealand 9.3 THE JAN LOKPAL BILL 1 Singapore 9.3 20 UK 7.6 The original Lokpal Bill had passed through Upper 22 USA 7.1 and Lower Houses of Parliament at least nine times. 78 China 3.5 Anna Hazare’s fast was undertaken in order to finally get Parliament to pass the new Bill—with inputs 87 India 3.3 from civil society that addressed some contentious 143 Pakistan 2.3 lapses and glaring lacunae. Amongst changes 176 Afghanistan 1.4 demanded are:  A 10-member committee, not necessarily from 178 Somalia 1.1 among retired judges.  Enhanced punishment—from a minimum of five Corruption seems to correlate roughly years up to life imprisonment—to serve as a with per capita income. The higher the strong deterrent. per capita income, the lower the level  A one year time frame for completion of inves- of corruption in a country. Surprise of tigations. It also prescribes that the trial should surprises, India is less corrupt (87th) than be completed within a year so that a corrupt Centre needs to ensure … its per capita income ranking (127th) politician, officer or judge is sent to jail within ... that the Bill not only provides legal sanctity to would suggest. The new icon of super 2 years. the institution of Lokpal, but also provides it with efficient governance, People’s Republic of  Protection to whistleblowers, to encourage sufficient authority, reasonable power and enough China, is only slightly less corrupt than complainants to speak out. This would also jurisdiction to be able to be effective when it comes India. The USA is much more corrupt remove the need for a separate Whistleblower to enforcement at the operational level. (22nd) than its per capita income rank Protection Bill (6th) would indicate. Source: The Lokpal Bill—Decoded, KPMG, an Indian Partnership and a member firm of the KPMG network of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International Cooperative (“KPMG International”), a Swiss entity. 20

What thing about humanity surprises you the most? SNIPPETS This was the question that was posed to the Dalai Lama. His answer was: “Man” Because he sacrifices his health in order to make Ralegaon Siddhi money. Then he sacrifices his money to recuperate his health. Under Anna Hazare’s leadership and And then he is so anxious about the future that initiative, his village Ralegaon Siddhi has he doesn’t enjoy the present, achieved the status of a model village in As a result he doesn’t live in the present or India and around the world. the future. And he lives as if he’s never going to die, Some of his achievements that have And then he dies having never really lived. transformed his village: • The watershed development work raised the water table. From 300–350 acres of land available for one crop, two crops in Playing together pays 1500 acres of land. Created employment. The country is slowly coming down to earth Yuvraj, Raina to name a few, all of them Distress migration stopped. from the exhilaration of a World Cup high. responded to the demands of the team.” • Energy generated from solar power, Sound bytes from the winning team are seen bio-fuel and windmills. everywhere. Some of these lend themselves Dangers of “I and Me” thinking to serious reflection, both within and outside The difference between success and failure • From 300 litres, milk production has cricket contexts. can rest on thinking “I” instead of “we”. This gone up to 4000 litres. has been proven again and again, in spheres Dhoni on World Cup victory ranging from sport to song (The Beatles, • The per capita income increased from Mahendra Singh Dhoni, when asked what Abba and Simon & Garfunkel are just `225 to `2500. made the win possible, attributed victory to three examples of groups that failed at the individuals successfully coming charts once egos prevented • Villagers constructed buildings worth `1 together as a team: “The their ‘playing as a team’)– crore for school, hostel and gymkhana character showed by individu- and much that lies in and renovated the old village temple als in the team has been between. From governance through financial contributions and exceptional. They have showed 100 per cent to business, the value of teamwork cannot dedication on and off the field and whenever be over emphasised. The Japanese got it right shramdan. the occasion demanded they put their hands when they said, “None of us is as smart as • Villagers have given up brewing of liquor. up and responded to the situation. Zaheer, all of us”. Also, nobody sells cigarettes, beedies and tobacco—for the last 13 years. “Individual commitment to a group effort—that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work.” —Vince Lombardi

Successful Failure Failure is an inevitable companion on the path to success. And whilst you may eventually succeed in leaving that friend behind, make sure you don’t forget the lessons she taught you. The entrepreneurs, politicians and one sportsperson we have profiled have not. Read on.

“You are not a failure as long as you are trying” “Plan for the bad when the going is good” —CAPTAIN G. R. GOPINATH, —GLENN SALDANHA, FOUNDER, DECCAN 360 MD & CEO,

“Glory is in rising every time we fall” “I used a setback as a stepping stone” —PHANEESH MURTHY, —SOURAV GANGULY, PRESIDENT AND CEO, iGATE, AND FORMER DIRECTOR, INFOSYS FORMER CAPTAIN, INDIAN CRICKET TEAM

“Success never comes, you have to seek it” “I was told I was taking too many risks” —SANDEEP GOYAL, —KIRAN MAZUMDAR-SHAW, FOUNDER-CHAIRMAN, DENTSU INDIA, AND FMR CEO, ZEE CHAIRPERSON & MANAGING DIRECTOR, LTD

“Failure makes place for something better” “Put your difficulties to work” —PRIYANKA CHOPRA, —ARUN SHOURIE, BOLLYWOOD ACTOR FORMER MINISTER AND JOURNALIST

—Source: ET Bureau, Apr 3

Better a diamond with a flaw Failure is simply an opportunity to than a pebble without. begin again, this time more intelligently —CONFUCIUS, CHINESE PHILOSOPHER —HENRY FORD, FOUNDER, FORD AUTOMOBILES 21 22 Union Budget 2011-12 Focus on recovery, reforms and rejuvenation

UNION BUDGET • Deduction for investment in long term infrastructure Central Electronic Registry The 2011-12 budget is expected to serve as a transition bonds up to `20,000/-extended for 2011-12. Central Electronic Registry to prevent frauds involving towards a more transparent and result-oriented economic • Contribution made by employer to New Pension multiple lending on the same immovable property to management system in India. The Indian economy Scheme to be excluded from the Overall `100,000 become operational by March 31, 2011. is expected to grow at 9% with an outside band of limit prescribed under Section 80CCE. +/- 0.25% in 2011-12. Direct Taxes Personal income-tax slabs proposed to be revised as Rate of Minimum Alter- Housing Sector Finance under native Tax proposed Existing scheme of interest subvention of 1% on housing to be increased from Existing Slab Revised Slab Rate (%) loan further liberalised. 18% to 18.5% of The scheme of 1% interest subvention on housing Up to 160,000 Up to 180,000 NIL book profits. (MAT) loans announced for the Financial Year (FY) 2009-10 160,001 to 500,000 180,001 to 500,000 10 rates now applicable has been extended further to housing loan up to to Developers of and `15 lakh where the cost of the house does not exceed 500,001 to 800,000 500,001 to 800,000 20 Units in a Special `25 lakh from the present limit of `10 lakh and Above 800,000 Above 800,000 30 Economic Zone (SEZ). `20 lakh, respectively. Section 80CCD provides a deduction to employees in Service Tax Personal Tax respect of any contributions made to the New Pension The levy of Service • Personal Income tax exemption limit increased to Scheme (NPS) by the employee and employer. The Tax has been extended to the following new services: `180,000. current provisions of Section 80CCE, restricts the aggre- • Services provided by air-conditioned restaurants having gate amount of deduction to be claimed under Section license to serve liquor. • Senior Citizen age limit revised to 60 years from earlier 80C, 80CCC and 80CCD to `100,000. It is proposed level of 65 years; further Exemption limit increased to • Services provided by hotels, inns, guest houses, clubs, that the contribution made by the employer to the NPS `250,000. camp sites. This service will be taxed only when the be excluded for computing the `100,000 limit under continuous period of stay is less then three months. • Exemption limit carved out for a new category of very Section 80CCE. Further, it is proposed that the employer • Hotel accommodation in excess of `1000/- per day Senior citizens (pegged at 80 years and above) at be allowed a Deduction under Section 36 in respect of These new levies will come into effect after the enact- `500,000. his contribution to the NPS of an amount being lower of ment of the Finance Bill 2011. • Exemption limit for women assesses remain unchanged Actual employer contribution to NPS; or 10% of employ- at `190,000. ees salary. State Budget 2011-12

Commercial Tax: • VAT rate on goods currently taxable at 13.5% is increased to 14% • Luxury Tax—Proposal for payment of composition amounts in lieu of regular tax by home stay units

Karnataka Stamp Act, 1957: Amendments with respect to Stamp Duty Sl.No. Subject Present Stamp duty Proposed Stamp duty 01 Agreement for Sale 1% on the market value equal to the amount of 0.1% on the market value equal to the amount of consideration subject to a maximum of consideration subject to a maximum of `20,000/-. `20,000/-. in accordance with Article 5(e) (ii). Note:- When a reference is made in such agreement for sale regarding Power of Attorney given to the Purchaser authorizing him to sell the property, then such agreement will be considered as Agreement for Sale with possession and the stamp duty payable is as per conveyance rate. 02 Agreement to Build 1% on market value of property or consideration Article 5(f) is deleted. Agreements are thereby covered under Article 5(j). paid whichever is higher with a ceiling of In accordance with Article 5(j) `200/- would be payable as Stamp Duty. `1,50,000/- in accordance with Article 5(f). 03 Joint Development 1% on the market value of the property or on the The said provision is omitted resulting in J.D Agreement being covered under 5(e) (i).. The stamp Agreement consideration for such agreement whichever is duty payable is the same as per conveyance in accordance with Article 5(e) (i). higher subject to a maximum of `1.50,000/- in accordance with Article 5(f). 04 Power of Attorney 1% on the market value of the property or on the Article 41(e) (a) is deleted. given for construction/ consideration for such agreement whichever is The stamp duty payable is the same as per conveyance in accordance with Article 41(e). development or sale of higher subject to a maximum of `1,50,000/- an immovable property. in accordance with Article 41(e) (a).

HOUSing LOan SChemeS Census 2011: Bangalore’s growth

Indicative Equated Monthly Installment for every 1 lakh of loan* The estimated population (2011 census) for Bangalore is 95.90 lakh, up from 45.92 lakh ten years ago. One of the Interest EMI main reasons: The boundaries of the city have been extended Loan Classification Rates to increase its area from 531 sq km to 775 sq km. Other (%) 5 years 10 years 15 years 20 years 25 years reasons for population growth include influx due to education, health and employment sectors and the floating population for 1st year 8.75 2064 1254 1000 884 823 business reasons —Source: News reports 2nd and 3rd years 9.50 2094 1291 1043 931 873 FOR REST OF THE PERIOD 9.75 + 2099 1301 1055 946 889 Bangalore is India’s Floating Interest ++ 10.00 2125 1322 1075 966 909 most vibrant city … Discounted rates in the first three years Fixed interest are also on floating rate basis only. No fixed rate option … according to a survey by Morgan Stanley, the global financial services firm. Their report—“AlphaWise City EMI quoted above are for loans availed from State • Moratorium be financed • Interest rates and EMIs are subject to change without notice Vibrancy Index: A Guide to India’s Urbanization”—is based on is presumed to be “nil” • Fixed rate loans are available for a maximum period • Loan sanctions will be at the sole discretion of SBI & other terms & conditions surveys of the top 200 cities in India by population. Interest- of 10 years only • Fixed rate loans have a reset clause of 5 years with “force prevailing on the date of sanction. ingly, Mysore, though a tier two city, is ranked in the top 10, majeure” clause • Floating rate interest rates vary for loans up to Rs 50 + For loans up to Rs 30 lakh. ++ For loans up to Rs 30 lakh after 3 years and lakh and above Rs.50 lakh • Loan amount limit depends on the income of from year 1 for loans above 75 lakh. whereas Mumbai ranks 21st among India’s top 50 cities.

Conditions apply the applicant • Security of the loan is the first mortgage of the property to * Source: —Source: http://www.morganstanley.com 23 24