At august 2013

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No. 12 Pages 32 August 2013` 100 US$ 10 (Overseas)Vol. 6

Incredible India

through the pagesVOL. 6. NO. 12. AUGUST 2013

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P 20-21

12 Lulu Mall Attracts Shoppers and Travellers

14 Tourism Minister to Attend 29th IATO Annual Convention in Kochi

15 Rs 41 Cr for Tourism Development Around Konark Sun Temple

18 Turkey Chalo

18 UNWTO Hails Kerala Tourism’s Efforts to Revive Historic Spice Route

22 Splash 2013 Wayanad

23 Gujarat Tourism to Introduce New Tourism Policy by Year End

23 IT&CMA and CTW Asia-Pacifi c 2013

24 Explore Caves in Meghalaya

28 Malaysia Hosts Deepti Bhatnagar’s “Chintu Ban Gaya Gentleman”

ANNA SINGHDEEPAK SATHYAPALAN

Woman of the month

P 16-17

Interview

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SANTHOSH NAIR

Ten Questions

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4 ASIAN TRAVELLER | AUGUST 2013

5

T rr acrin a G. Biju KrishnanEditor & Publisher

[email protected]+91 9447555222

There is no doubt that technology plays an important role in tourism and travel. Most of us are now used to booking our airline reservations on line and other cost saving devices. These technological advances have allowed corporations

to save on manpower while at the same time empowering customers to make their own decisions. On the other side of the equation, travellers use more technology than ever before and often the tourism industry has taken advantage of this desire (need) to stay in touch with its clientele.

If we like it or not technology touches almost every aspect of the tourism industry. If we are smart enough to use the benefits of technology such as convenience, speed, and accuracy and avoid some of the pitfalls, lack of human contact, user friendliness, size of lettering, and lack of human contact, then technology can be a great time and cost saver.

Social media websites, representing various forms of consumer-generated content (CGC) such as blogs, virtual communities, wikis, social networks,

collaborative tagging, and media files shared on sites like YouTube and Flickr, have gained substantial popularity in

online travelers' use of the Internet.

As travel decisions become increasingly influenced by peer reviews and opinions on social

networks, experts are advising businesses to factor in the Internet in their marketing strategies. Social media

has become a constant presence throughout the traveller lifecycle – from decision and planning stage, to the actual

vacation, to post-holiday. It has become our information network and our source of news. Surveys show that more than

half of the travellers revised their original plans if there was negative social media feedback about their chosen places.

Tourism is an information-intense industry therefore, it is critical to understand changes in technologies and consumer behaviour that impact the distribution and accessibility of travel-related information. In the Indian scenario social media is being used extensively, but only as a social contact point - we have not started using social media to the extent it can be used to promote business. There is awareness and desire but no real application.

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EDITOR’S NOTE

ASIAN TRAVELLER | AUGUST 2013

Interview

By ensuring personalized services and controlled pricing, hospitality sector would just be the ideal support in developing India further on maps of travel and tourism, says DEEPAK SATHYAPALAN, Managing Director & CEO of Beaumonde The Fern Kochi.

A Journey of Achievements

You have established a name in the hospitality industry as the Managing Director & CEO of Beaumonde The Fern hotel Kochi. Tell us more about your achievements in this position?

I was involved with Hotel Metropolitan as Executive Director but to be honest being the MD & CEO of Beaumonde The Fern has been a learning experience in terms of understanding the glamorous hospitality industry. Every day is an experience, I have learnt how small amendments in way of life can be meaningful contribution to the environment we live in, and recently we bagged the award at a travel platform for being Most Exclusive Leisure award, which conveyed a higher level of acceptance of our vision by the travel fraternityHow do you assess the hospitality industry’s role in shaping the future of tourism sector?

Hospitality Industry has a very major role in safe guarding tourism Industry. Today with competitive tourism countries like China, Sri Lanka, Singapore , Thailand and South Africa it is the experience rendered to a traveler that will make the difference. Thus by ensuring personalized service and controlled pricing hospitality sector would just be the ideal support in developing India further on Maps of travel and tourism.From your view point what are the pros and cons of hotel industry?

I can say there are some challenges faced by the hotel Industry like dependence on socio-political scenario for businesses, bureaucratic paper work, higher taxations etc but again these are factors which can be overcome. Pros of this industry are many to name a few, it’s an industry which contributes to a fair share of country’s economics, ROI

can be predicted considering certain set parameters and more importantly this industry is very adaptable to ever changing scenario. A word of caution to all entrepreneurs venturing into hotel Industry is to assess viability of a project before getting into these businesses as competition is growing and market is very volatile. You have got vast experience of more than a decade in the hotel industry. Do you think you could convert your expertise into success in your fi eld? Elaborate on this.

In this industry you need not be an expert to convert into successes, but yes a few practical and common sense approaches make the path to successes much easier. But being from an architecture background it did help us a lot in constructing this hotel as we could save lot of money by making few alterations.What are your future aspirations and plans for the

expansion of your business in the hospitality sector?

With Beaumonde The Fern, we have achieved establishing a landmark which is synonym with Responsible Tourism, however in future also we would like to expand this business of KGB hospitality by adding few more hotels each of which would be unique in its own way and close to mother nature. Future plans are looking for projects in partnership or acquiring hotel project in south India and countries like Srilanka, Thailand and Malaysia. Apart from your hotel business you have diversifi ed into other areas of business also . Brief us about this ?

Rather Hotel industry was a diversion, we are a family of Doctors , however other interest which we have been actively involved are owning few petrol outlets of BPCL , coffee plantations and commercial establishments.


A Journey of Achievements

8

In Focus


I n the early first decade of the 20th Century the then Viceroy of the

Indian Empire, Lord Curzon made a visit in the State to Alleppey now Alappuzha. Fascinated by the Scenic beauty of the place, in joy and amazement, he said, “Here nature has spent up on the land her richest bounties”. In his exhilaration, it is said, he exclaimed, “Alleppey, the Venice of the East”. Thus the sobriquet found its place in the world Tourism Map. The presence of a port and a pier, criss -cross roads and numerous bridges across them, a long and unbroken sea coast might have motivated him to make

this comparison. Of course Alappuzha has a wonderful past.

Referred to as the Venice of the East, Alappuzha has always enjoyed an important place in the maritime history of Kerala. Today, it is famous for its boat races, backwater holidays, beaches, marine products and coir industry. Alappuzha beach is a popular picnic spot. The pier, which extends into the sea here, is over 137 years old. Entertainment facilities at the Vijaya Beach Park add to the attraction of the beach. There is also an old lighthouse nearby which is greatly fascinating to visitors.

Another delightful experience while in Alappuzha is a houseboat cruise. The ones you find in the backwaters of Alappuzha are in fact reworked version of Kettuvallams of olden times. The original Kettuvallams or rice barges used to carry tons of rice and spices. The Kettuvallam or 'boat with knots' was so called because the entire boat was held together with coir knots only.

Of late, houseboats come with all creature comforts of a good hotel including furnished bedrooms, modern toilets, cozy living rooms, a kitchen and even a balcony for angling. And one can always

enjoy uninterrupted views of backwater life while staying in a houseboat.

Places of interest

Pathiramanal - According to mythology a young Brahmin dived into the Vembanadu lake to perform his evening ablutions and the water made way for land to rise from below, thus creating the enchanting island of (sands of midnight) Pathiramanal . This little island on the backwaters is a favourite haunt of hundreds of rare migratory birds from different parts of the world. The island lies between Thaneermukkom and Kumarakom, and is accessible

The Great Waterscapes- Alappuzha and Kumarakom

9ASIAN TRAVELLER | AUGUST 2013

In Focus

only by boat.

R-Block- These regions are wonders of the indigenous agricultural engineering know-how of Kerala and remind the visitor of the famous dikes of Holland. Extensive areas of Land have been reclaimed from the backwaters and are protected by dikes built all around. Here cultivation and habitation are made possible four to ten feet below sea Level. A leisurely cruise along the Canals that surround these Kayals is a memorable experience.

Krishnapuram Palace - Built by Marthandavarma, this place at karthikappally in Kayamkulam is famous for its mural depicting the story of Gajendramoksham. Dating back to the 18th century, this exquisite piece of art is one of the largest murals in Kerala.

This palace museum houses antique sculptures, paintings and bronzes.

Alappuzha Beach - This is one of the most popular picnic spots in Alappuzha. The pier, which extends into the sea here, is over 137 years old. Entertainment facilities at the Vijaya Beach Park add to the attractions of the beach. There is also an old light house which is greatly fascinating to visitors.

Nehru Trophy Boat Race: Nehru Trophy Boat race at Punnamada, Alappuzha is one of the most significant and colourful boat races in Kerala. It is a world renowned event, held annually on the second Saturday of the month of August in the Punnamada Lake in Alappuzha. Boats of all sizes compete in different events in the boat race and

Kerala is celebrating its 61st Nehru Trophy Boat Race on 10th August 2013.

The most prestigious and interesting event among the races is the competition of the "Chundan Vallam" or the snake boats. These majestic boats measuring a length of 30 to 60 metres (over 100 ft) with a raised prow, are quite impressive and can accommodate around 100 rowers, 4 helmsmen and 25 cheer leaders. The boats are well decorated with colourful trimmings and umbrellas during the race. Champakulam, Kavalam, Karichal, Jawahar Thayangari, Kallooparamban, Pacha, Pulincunnu, Nedubhagam, Cheruthana, Kandangari and Paippad are the chief competitors for the trophy. The huge boats racing through

the blue backwaters is a spectacular sight. The venue is 5kms from Alappuzha railway station and a walk able distance from Alappuzha bus stand.

A labyrinth of backwaters with shimmering water, the brilliant green of mangrove forests, coconut palms lining the embankments, blue skies, flocks of migratory birds skimming the water – that is Kumarakom, a veritable dreamland!

Every year, more than seven million tourists visit Kerala, a place that the National Geographic Magazine has described as one of the must-see places in a lifetime. Kumarakom is an important stopover for a majority of these tourists. This famous tourist backwater hub is a cluster of islands on the eastern banks of Lake Vembanad.

Compared to adjacent villages, the lake has its maximum length and breadth near Kumarakom - about eight km. With the huge lake on one side and with a network of calm canals running through it, Kumarakom, a masterpiece created by man and nature together, enjoys a unique position on the map of Kerala.

The village of Kumarakom is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake, and is part of the Kuttanad region. The bird sanctuary here, which is spread across 14 acres is a favourite haunt of migratory birds and an ornithologist's paradise. Egrets, darters, herons, teals, waterfowls, cuckoo, wild duck and migratory birds like the Siberian Stork visit here in flocks and fascinate the visitors abundantly.

10

TEN QUESTIONS


You have been in the hospitality industry for the past several years. Could you tell us about your early days? What made you enter the hospitality sector?

I have always been passionate about hospitality industry and from my early childhood I was firm to be part of this industry. I have many relatives in the industry who encouraged me to take this decision. I started my

career at the entry level and have gone through all departments and hence have an exposure of all possible challenges to run a hotel. In the earlier days with less number of hotels, the business was good. The hotels enjoyed Monopoly and put a premium on their services. Now with more number of hotels we have had to take care of guest preferences. Even though it has meant in lowering of

rates and enhanced costs. We have had to introduce Arabic food, a decent spa, Prayer mats, Halal food and a host of other facilities. In the earlier days employees were part of the hotel for longer duration and changes of jobs were not heard much. However now it has become most challenging to retain employees. At this time I remember my earlier work places like Taj, Oberoi’s, Jaypee and also the free

hand in Grand Nirvana for playing an important role in my personal and professional development.

What plans do you have for the company?

Currently I am heading the resort in Alappuzha and have been part of this resort right from the inception. I would like to take Citrus to the key destinations of Kerala and we are already

Santhosh Nair, General Manager, Citrus Backwaters Spa Retreat

Alappuzha, says he loves to connect with guests

and keep writing to them very often. He says

that spirituality lifts him professionally as well.

Spiritually Motivated Professional


TEN QUESTIONS

in the process of identifying hotels to take on lease or management contract. It is important to have a presence in well-known destinations like Trivandrum, Munnar, Thekkady etc. This will put us as one of the chain offering accommodation in most of the key locations. In the present scenario the easiest way to do this is through management contracts and we look forward to close out some. We will also look at strategic investments to enhance the brand presence in Kerala. We want to create a Kerala itinerary and are hopeful on closing out on some deals soon.

How do you see the role of a hotel in developing a destination? What all things can hospitality sector do in this regard?

For any location to grow and become popular it is mandatory to have good accommodation and enough rooms to meet the demand. Hotels generate employment and contribute to the development of infrastructure. It also provides

business opportunity to local vendors. As a group we undertake lot of corporate social responsibility activities. We are firm in our belief that the hotel will grow if the community grows.

Would you please share with us the proudest moment and some of the unforgettable moments in your professional life?

I have spent over 23 years in the industry and the proudest moment of my life was when Citrus opened its doors to guest in the year 2011. I was instrumental right from the project days of this hotel and saw it getting shaped in the midst of various difficulties. Today Citrus is ranked as one of the best options in back water and it gives me a great joy to be part of this success. Winning the best resort of the year award, General Manger of the year award are some of the unforgettable moments of my life.

In your career, have you ever worked abroad? What according to you are the

advantages of working overseas?

Though I have not worked abroad, I personally feel that our country offers equal opportunities for a thorough professional. My overseas trips have ensured that I stay abreast with latest hotel trends.

Where would you like to see yourself, say, 10 years from now?

I foresee myself heading a leading hotel chain, preferably in south India – both in operations and business development. My first task is to make Citrus a Big regional player. I also do a lot of development activity for Citrus. Eventually I would wish to head a hotel company.

How do you see the growth prospects of Indian hospitality sector?

The fact that all international hotel players have an eye on Indian market speaks well about the great opportunities lying here. India will see enough rooms to meet all kinds of demands and

with different level of hotels coming in, we can cater to all market and all segments of business.About your family?

I have two children, both daughters. My elder daughter is currently in 10th standard and the younger one is in Class II. My wife currently holds the fort and takes care of my home. My family is settled in Palakkad along with my motherPlease tell us about your hobbies and other interests?

I love to connect with my guest and keep writing to them very often. I love long drives and enjoy being with the nature. I also love my food and I am a food enthusiast. I am god fearing and feel that spirituality lifts me professionally as well.Which is your favourite destination? Why?

My favourite destination is Alappuzha and beyond doubt it is the backwaters. This has been fascinating me for the last seven years. After all it is God’s own country and I love my God!!

12

Shopping


Lulu Mall Attracts Shoppers and Travellers

Though the concept of malls in Kerala cannot boast of a long history,

it definitely is a boost to the tourism prospects of the state. Kochi, the most happening commercial capital of the state, got a major makeover on its face with the coming of Lulu Mall. The mall is sure to attract the shopaholic tourists as well as the locals bolstering Kochi’s status as a destination.

Lulu Mall, a division of the much famed Lulu Group headquartered in Abu Dhabi, UAE, is one of the largest as well as the first of its kind in India. The Group with its flagship retail chain of LULU hypermarkets and supermarkets has operations spread over 24 countries. Under the dynamic leadership of Padmashri Yusuffali M.A, Managing Director, the Group has successfully evolved through the supermarket and hypermarket transition to high profile shopping malls. Lulu Group has been ranked third in the prestigious “Forbes Top 100 companies” making an impact in the Arab world. LuLu Hypermarket

has also been ranked by Deloitte as one of the ten fastest-growing retailers in the world.

Strategically located in Edapally, Kochi, at the intersection of three important highways of Kerala: NH 47, NH 17 and the Kochi by-pass, Lulu Mall is within easy reach of almost all landmarks and prominent facilities.

Built with an impressive architecture, at an approximate cost of Rs.1600 crores, Lulu Mall is an eclectic ensemble of retail offerings spread across four storeys occupying more than 2.5 million sq.ft. of built-up space in 17 acres. It comes with everything that is required to whet the desire of a discerning shopper, from branded apparels, fashion accessories, jewellery, gifts, electronic items to, food court, restaurants, coffee shops and an excellent entertainment experience that caters to both locals and international tourists. Sprawling over an area of about 2, 00,000 sq. ft. is Lulu Hypermarket one of the largest Hypermarkets

in India. Within the mall is also a 12 lane bowling alley and South India’s largest Ice Skating Rink. Being a one stop destination for Fun, Food, Fashion and Films, we have 22 multi cuisine restaurants in the food court, the biggest multiplex in Kerala and one of the largest entertainment centres in the state. Lulu Mall has brought for the first time to Kerala over 40 well known international and local brands.

In order to meet the requirements of clients and customers alike, the mall comes with facilities including spacious indoor walkways, ATM’s, money exchange centres, bank counters, pharmacy, travel & holidays booking services, escalators, lifts, special facilities for the differently abled like wheel chairs, information desk, lost & found counter, first aid and ambulance service, car calling, cab services, baby care room, prayer room and water cooler facilities. Another highlight is the ample parking space that can easily accommodate up to 3000 vehicles. The mall is also Wi-Fi enabled.

To provide the customers a refreshing and memorable shopping experience with every visit, Lulu has brought for the first time to Kerala well known international and local brands. The first timers include Sparkys, Lulu Hypermarket, Zaki, MotiMahal, WOW Momos, Kailash Parbat, Mc Donalds, Crème Centre, Westside, Caterpillar(first time in India), Rolex, Swatch, Kushals, Ethnik, Sia Art Jewellery, Addon Women, Celio, Vero Moda, Wh, Global Desi, Satya Paul, Jashn,Soch, Kraus Jeans, Jack & Jones, Zahra Phones, Bodyshop, Toni & Guy, Aroma Thai, Apple - Imagine Store, Dar Optics, Calonge, Cross word, William Penn, Beurer, PVR, Baggit, Cotton World, Being Human, Tantra, SportXS.

Also, within the mall’s expansive campus is the Courtyard Marriott - a magnificent 300 room hotel that caters to the unique accommodation needs of visitors and tourists to the God’s own country.

14

NEWSLINE


MSI Newswire | Mysore

The department of tourism

has identified 569 destinations in the state for improving infrastructure and facilities. The department has also appointed consultants for every district to improve tourism infrastructure in the state, minister for tourism and higher education, R V Deshpande, said.

Replying to a question raised by Appaji Nadagouda of Congress in the state legislative assembly on Wednesday, the minister said district-level committees headed by the deputy commissioners will be reorganised soon. These committees will hold meeting of all the stakeholders every quarter to

discuss and chalk out action plan for development of tourism in every district.

"The urban development department is executing works for Rs 38.99 crore for creation of various infrastructure facilities at different tourism destinations. The tourism department has prepared a detailed project report for Rs 5.25 crore for improving the facilities at Mysore Palace," Deshpande said in response to another question raised by a Congress member.

Nandi Hills, the closest tourist destination for

Bangaloreans, is all set to have improved infrastructure, with the government making a comprehensive plan in this regard.

RV Deshpande, minister for higher education and tourism, in a written reply to Sudhakar K, MLA from Chikkaballapur, stated that as per the plan, a tourist arrival centre, ticket counter and bus shelter are being constructed at an estimated cost of Rs1.04 crore.

“Gandhi House, Nehru House and Guest House of horticulture department have been renovated at an estimate cost of Rs1.2 crore, and three cottages are being constructed atop Nandi Hills at an estimated cost

of Rs71.49 lakh,’’ the minister said. “We are awaiting the state

government’s nod for the construction of a food court, at an estimated cost of Rs1.5 crore. Landscaping work is under progress.

Children play cluster in tree house has been developed by spending Rs85.3 lakh and parking facility, drainage and other work was taken up at an estimated cost of Rs1.01 crore,’’ said Deshpande.

Central Assistance Sought for Improving Mysore Palace

Government Allots Fund to Develop Nandi Hills

Tourism Minister to Attend 29th IATO Annual Convention in Kochi

MSI Newswire | New Delhi

Dr. K Chiranjeevi, Minister for Tourism, will attend the first day of the 29th IATO

Annual Convention, which will take place from September 8 to 11, 2013 in Kochi. In a meeting organized by IATO Executive Committee members and Subhash Goyal, President, IATO, recently, the Minister confirmed his presence at the Convention. The meeting was organised to extend an invitation to the Minister for the Convention.

According to Gour Kanjilal, Executive Director, IATO, Dr Chiranjeevi welcomed the delegation, and has assured that he would be present on the opening day of the Convention. He has also assured full support from his Ministry.

At the meeting, the delegation also updated the Minister on the efforts of the Association members to raise funds for the affected families of the flood-ravaged Uttarakhand. IATO has managed to collect over Rs 13 lakh, which will be sent to the Prime Minister’s Office/Chief Minister of Uttarakhand soon. Also, IATO has decided to adopt a village to be set up as a 'model village' for tourism-related activities, and thereby supporting the villagers. Also, ambulances will be arranged to be linked with local hospitals for immediate medical service to patients.

The Minister also asked the delegation to put in consistent efforts for rebuilding tourism infrastructure and rehabilitation of the people in need. The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India has already sanctioned over Rs 100 crore to this effect.


NEWSLINE

MSI Newswire | Muscat

Oman, the best kept secret of the Middle East will soon be visible to Indian

audiences in the keenly awaited Bollywood feature, Once Upon A Time in Mumbai Dobaara. A part of the film was shot in Oman including the capital city Muscat. In its effort to popularize Oman as a leisure destination to the premium Indian travellers, Ministry of Tourism - Oman associated itself with Balaji’s forthcoming multi-starrer.

Produced by Balaji Motion Pictures and directed by Milan Luthria, Once Upon A Time in Mumbai Dobaara stars Akshay Kumar, Imran Khan, Sonakshi Sinha and Sonali Bendre Behl, and will be released on 15th August 2013 worldwide.

Actress Sonakshi Sinha, the leading lady of the film who visited

Oman during the shoot of the film says, “Oman fits beautifully into this film as it can be moulded to look like the period in which the film is set. It’s very opulent, rich and relatable. It’s a beautiful place and I really had a good time when I was there.”

Lubaina Sheerazi, India Representative, Ministry of Tourism, Sultanate of Oman believes, “Oman is a ‘must see’ for those who want to soak in some authentic Arabian experience with the glory of an ancient civilization, miles of undisturbed coastline and a culture known for its legendary hospitality. We are very excited that the Indian audiences will witness this beautiful country on the big screen through a Bollywood film.”.

MSI Newswire | Odisha

An ambitious Rs 41-crore project has been unveiled for peripheral development

and beautification around the Konark Sun Temple in Odisha to attract more tourists. Indian Oil Foundation (IOF), a non-profit trust of Indian Oil Corporation Ltd would spend Rs 36 crore for peripheral development and Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) would provide

Rs five crore for development of site museum at Konark.

Laying the foundation stone of the project recently, M Veerappa Moily, Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Government of India, said development of tourist facilities by IOF in collaboration with ASI and National Culture Fund of the Union Ministry of Culture would be completed within 18 months by February 2015. “We will not meddle with its architectural structure. We will preserve, develop and protect it for the posterity", Moily said, adding that the endeavor would reach its desired completion with support of Odisha government and the people of the state.

"Konark is a famous destination in Odisha. We should not look at it only for future Domestic Tourism but International Tourism by involving local people," he said.

Oman Goes the Bollywood Way

Rs 41 Cr for Tourism Development Around Konark Sun Temple

Turkey to be the Partner Country for ‘IITT 2014’

MSI Newswire | New Delhi

The formal announcement about ‘IITT 2014’ show was made by the ITE Group PLC and ABEC management at a

grand event hosted at the Turkish Embassy in New Delhi. This mega show is supported by Incredible India (The Ministry of Tourism) and various other travel associations.

“We are glad to announce the ‘India International Travel and Tourism Exhibition - IITT 2014’ in association with Asian Business Exhibition & Conferences Ltd. (ABECL). Now India too will have its own giant travel expo at IITT 2014,” said Russell Taylor, CEO, ITE Group PLC.

The IITT 2014 launch event was followed by a speech by Ozgur Ayturk, Culture & Tourism Counsellor, Turkish Embassy, New Delhi who cited, “Turkey has had a long relationship with ITE Group and we are having this evening at the Turkish Embassy as we are the partner country for IITT 2014.”

The global exhibition leader ‘ITE Group PLC’ and India’s leading exhibition company ‘ABECL’ have joined hands to host the ‘India International Travel and Tourism Exhibition - IITT 2014.’ The exhibition will be a premier Indian exhibition for the global Travel and Tourism industry. IITT 2014 will be organized on 16th, 17th and 18th January 2014 at Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), Mumbai.

The evening was attended by some key people from the Travel and Tourism Industry such as Subhash Goyal – Chairman – STIC Travel Group, Guldeep Singh Sahni – President – OTOAI, Subhash Verma – President - ADTOI, Payal Batra – Dy. Gen. Manager - ITDC and many other leading business leaders.

Q & A

16

There is a big difference between being a successful woman professional and being a successful professional who is also a woman, says Anna Singh, Assistant Managing Director, ATPI India, in an exclusive interview with Asian Traveller.

run of your career. Can you share with us your proudest moments of achievements with us?

It is a moment of great pride for me that ATPI in India today has grown from a motley group of three souls to close to 100 employees. As much as I am proud in being instrumental in expanding the company, I am also humbled by the fact that we have miles to go and achieve greater accomplishments.

ATPI in India began in a small 10x10 cabin when we didn’t have an offi ce of our own in India. Today, we have sprawling offi ce over 15000 sq ft. From a negligible turnover of Rs. 2 crores which primarily came from the overseas offi ce, today we are a Rs. 150-crore company.

I’ve been involved in the growth of ATPI India from its inception; I have helped birth this baby and watching the baby grow is nothing more than daily sense of pride and achievement. The travel industry is constantly changing and I love every moment of being part of it.

Being a woman what were the hurdles you faced from the industry?

From gaining exposure in the travel industry early in life to earning the respect of male colleagues to balancing a personal life with career pressures, I have learnt to realize my skills and talents. Being highly focused on my career trajectory has been extremely critical to the success of my career. Of course, there were numerous bumps along the way, but I didn't allow myself to get distracted by the zigzags in the road. My vision and passion was very clear; if I

Being a woman what was the motivation behind your idea of venturing into the travel sector and that too with great confi dence?

My career began in the marine and offshore travel division and I have culled over 20 years of specialist knowledge within the fi eld. Today, our business has expanded to greater boundaries to include Corporate Travel & Mice.

As the Asst Managing Director for the ATPI India, what is your role in the company.

I currently manage a multidimensional portfolio and look into every aspect of the business. Besides overseeing the operations, sales, marketing, key account management and HR I am also responsible for leading the strategic vision of the organisation. At the end of the day, my role is endlessly

varied. There is always something new to learn, and I get to work with some of the most extraordinary people on

the planet -- my team!

You will be having great moments of glory which you have achieved

in the long

of the business. Besides overseeing the operations, sales, marketing, key account management and HR I am also responsible for leading the strategic vision of the organisation. At the end of the day, my role is endlessly

varied. There is always something new to learn, and I get to work with some of the most extraordinary people on

the planet -- my team!

You will be having great moments of glory which you have achieved

in the long



believe in something, other people will too. To add to it, I have had the opportunity to work with some of the stalwarts within the marine and offshore fraternity, however I have also had to work doubly harder than my male counterparts to carve a niche for myself.

I tell myself, "I'm not a successful woman professional; I'm a successful professional who is also a woman." There's a big difference. Being conscious of what you are working towards and keeping in mind the larger picture, when things go unpleasant or diffi cult, is tremendously crucial.

How do you rate your success story so far?

I am constantly looking at achieving greater heights;

be it in operations, sales, key account management, marketing and overall strategy, I am incessantly looking to raise the bar in all these aspects.

During meetings I prefer to lead by example; I advise my team ‘to sweat that extra mile not just with guts and gumption, but with heart, soul and zeal.

Who is the most infl uential person in your life?

I am not really infl uenced by anyone;rather I am a self-motivated individual. Having said that I imbibe a lot of knowledge from the various people I interact within my line of business. Since I work in a multinational environment and I’ve travelled around the globe, the wisdom I have gleaned from various cultures

and personalities has been priceless.

Share with us the lighter moments of your life which you spend with your family?

I am married to the most amazing man, Rajiv Singh. In spite of his hectic schedule in heading a dynamic Events &Entertainment business that makes him travel a lot, he is my rock and bulwark.

Along with Rajiv, my family comprises two adorable children - Rayna who is all of 5 with a mind of her own and Raul who will soon turn 2 with an insane amount of energy. I have to mention my mother and mother in law who are my pillars, I know my kids are well taken care of while I am away at work. We love to go on holidays and unwind.

Ideally I’d like to take about 4 holidays in year but I barely manage just about 2. I am also passionate about exercising, not necessarily at the gym, but keeping myself fi t through yoga, cycling, skipping etc.

What are your future aspirations and plans about your career?

We are a global name in corporate travel solutions and now with the proven success of the three brands in India, ATPI in India is one of the most successful travel solution providers. We aim to grow organically through our fl exible approach to corporate travel management. No matter the degree of success and performance we have attained so far, we know we can, and must, exceed it tomorrow.

Q & A

18

NEWSLINE


MSI Newswire | Mumbai

Veena Patil, former Managing Director, Kesari Tours Pvt.

Ltd., has launched Veena Patil Hospitality Pvt. Ltd under the brand 'Veena World - Travel. Explore. Celebrate.

With its head office in Ghatkopar in Mumbai—which opened on June 5, 2013—the company opened its first sales office almost a fortnight later on June 18 in the city in Kandivali. The office was inaugurated by Raj Thackeray, Founder and Chairperson, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena. Besides Kesari Patil, Chairman, Kesari Tours, and Sunita Patil, Vice President, Kesari Tours, eminent

personalities from the travel & tourism and aviation industries were present at the inaugural function.

Veena Patil Hospitality aims to open five sales offices in Mumbai—in Ghatkopar, Thane, Dadar, Dombivali, and Vile Parle—and one in Pune in two months. Sudhir Patil, Sunila Patil and Neil Patil have been taken on board as Directors of the company.

MSI Newswire | Bangalore

Turkey Chalo is a sub brand by Worldwide Travel Services for the purpose of serving to

the needs and expectations of Indian tourism market. Worldwide Travel Services is the leading Land operator in Turkey for Indian and Far Eastern market.

Worldwide Travel Services was established in 1999, ready to meet the fast growing demand for FIT and GIT land tours throughout Turkey as well as Incentive arrangements for clients from Far East, India, Europe, North & South America, Middle East

and Africa. It is one of the leading Turkey Destination Management Company and a distinguished member of Tursab (Association of Turkish Travel Agencies) and IATA.

Turkey chalo, the new brand name in Indian market, has been launched just a month ago, and for the first time a website was launched www.turkeychalo.in where Indian travelers get all information about Turkey as well as tour packages.At IITM Bangalore, Worldwide Travel Services and Turkeychalo.in ,bagged award for the Best International Travel Product.

Veena World Launched

Turkey Chalo

UNWTO Hails Kerala Tourism’s Efforts to Revive Historic Spice Route

MSI Newswire | Thiruvananthapuram

Kerala Tourism’s efforts to promote heritage and peace by reviving the two millennia-old spice route

from Kerala to the West received a major boost with the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) hosting an important session on the ancient trade route.

At the three-day international meeting on Silk Road tourism organized by the UNWTO in the northwestern Chinese city of Dunhuang during August 1-3, the focus fell on a presentation on Spice Route made by the Kerala Tourism Secretary Suman Billa.

Speaking on ‘Protecting Heritage and Promoting Peace through the Spice Route initiative’, Billa emphasized the importance of the route that linked 31 countries in Asia and Europe with India, particularly Kerala, as the major hub.

“With the recent archaeological evidences excavated from Muziris, the major port of entry to India from the West for the ancient spice trade, we have been presented with a historic opportunity to revive Spice Route for the modern world,” said Billa referring to his speech before a select gathering of officials from UNWTO, UNESCO, the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank and international tourism organizations.

Suman Billa was invited by UNWTO for the International meeting on Silk Road Tourism in China which was co-hosted by China National Tourism Administration and the Chinese provincial government of Gansu.

20

Tamil Nadu Traveller


Mangroves in PichavaramPichavaram is home to the second largest Mangrove forest in the world, and it is one of the unique eco-tourism spots in South India, writes Dr. S. Bakthavatchalam

Pichavaram is located near Chidambaram in Cuddalore District,

Tamil Nadu, in South India and is just four hours drive from Chennai. The nearest railway station is Chidambaram from where it is accessible by road and has the only Mangroves which were untouched and undisturbed by the tsunami.

Pichavaram is home to the second largest Mangrove forest in the world, and it is one of the unique eco-tourism spots in South India. The

backwaters, interconnected by the Vellar and Coleroon river systems offer abundant scope for water sports such as rowing, kayaking and canoeing. The Pichavaram forest not only offers waterscape and backwater cruises, but also another very rare sight - the mangrove forest trees are permanently rooted in a few feet of water.

Mangrove forest constitutes unique ecosystems. They are found in the coastal areas of tropical

and sub-tropical regions where the level of the saline water rises and falls with the tides twice every day. The terrain is open to the devastating effects of wind and rain, making life in this inhospitable region difficult, to say the least. But the mangrove tree has adapted itself exceedingly well. Not only does it survive it thrives under these conditions. It not only counters the erosion caused by the wind and waves but is responsible for


Tamil Nadu Traveller

actually reclaiming the land!Seeds could hardly survive

in such a hostile environment so the mangrove evolved a singular solution. The seeds germinate on the tree and develop into cigar shaped seedlings, pointed at the lower end. When mature enough, these fall of the tree and penetrate the soil where they develop roots. This mode of germination ensures a high percentage of survival and a rapid growth of new trees.

The roots have very developed membrances which act like filters permitting only fresh water to enter. If by chance some salinity filters through, the excess salt is

accumulated in the leaves which simply fall off. The most important feature of the tree however are its prop-like roots which give it is peculiar appearance and made it appear as it were standing on stilts. The root system has pores through which the tree breathes in oxygen from the air when the water level falls and the roots are exposed.

There root system acts like gigantic net trapping broken branches, dead leaves and sundry debris. Mud and sand collects at the base of the tree entrapped by the roots and in this way the mangrove forest is the most effective natural barrier against the erosive forces of the wind and waves, cyclones and storms. The mangrove forest is the most effective natural barrier against the erosive forces of the winds and waves, cyclones and storms. The mangrove swamps are gigantic biological sinks with unrivalled capacity to absorb and assimilate chemicals from polluted water and recycle them into nutrients from the surrounding vegetation.

This unique ecosystem attracts a large variety of fish invertebrates which in turn attracts birds and animals. The Pichavaram Mangrove forest remains unknown till Late M G Ramchandran selected this location for his film Idayakani.

The mangroves are spread over 3000 acres with trees

rooted in a few feet of water. One of the best ways (or the only way), is to hire a boat and discover the many fascinating water ways. You will encounter hanging branches, dark channels, birds and spiders.

Pichavaram consists of a number of islands interspersing a vast expanse of water covered with green trees. The area is about 2,800 acres (11 km) and is separated from the sea by a sand bar which is a patch of extraordinary loveliness.

The Pichavaram mangroves attract an appreciable bird population of residents, local migrants and true migrants. Amongst others, one can view birds like Water snips, Cormorants, Egrets, Storks, Herons, Spoonbills and Pelicans. At the mangroves, so far, 177 species of birds belonging to 15 orders and 41 families have been recorded.

The season for birds is from September to April every year. Peak population of birds could be seen from November to January. This is due to high productive nature (in terms of prey organisms) of the ecosystem and coincidence of the time of arrival of true migrants from foreign countries and local migrants from their breeding grounds across India. The availability of different habitat types such as channels, creeks, gullies, mud flats and sand flats and

adjacent sea shore offers ideal habitat for difference species of birds.

The Tamil Nadu tourism department operates paid boating services for the visitors to go around Mangrove forest for sightseeing. There are both motor boats and row boats available for rent. We choose row boat and luckily it became a wise decision since the row boat is friendly enough to paddle across the narrow Mangrove bushes where the motor boat cannot reach. It’s really awesome to see the dense Mangrove trees amidst the water bodies while you travel in boat. Since Mangrove trees are dense and found in water bodies there are many birds found in this place, both native and migratory birds are commonly seen. These birds built nests on these trees and feeds on the fishes living there.

The forest area of 1400 hectares has an extensive covering of Mangrove trees and is crises crossed by numerous creeks and channels. On the eastern side is a narrow sand bank. Reasonably good accommodation is available in comfortable cottages. Restaurant facilities though not lavish are more than adequate and boats are available for the adventurous who want to explore nature’s bounty to the full.

22

Splash 2013


Splash 2013 WayanadSplash2013 Wayanad, the

fifth edition of Kerala’s biggest monsoon

festival, has been a hit with more than 350 travel operators from different parts of the country attended the meet. It was introduced five years ago to promote Rain Tourism thereby making the most daunting and dormant period of the year more marketable.

In those days it was only a local celebration in monsoon season. But now many tourists and travelers come and enjoy the carnival and also the beauty of the season. WTO had to go through a lot of difficulties to convince locals of the potential of the festival; today they get a way into hearts in foreign and faraway shores.

Living up to its name as wayal nadu or land of paddy fields, a football pitch was specially prepared in an empty rice field at Hill District Club near Kolagapara and people are encouraged to get down and dirty and participate in sports like mud football or kabbadi! Guests had the opportunity to try their hand at farm-related activities with competitions

in indigenous expertise like paddy transplantation, climbing the slipper tree, catching crabs and archery! WTO also arranges local experiences like elephant safaris.

Offroad rallying, another adventure sport organised in association with Jeep Club Wayanad, lures participants from all over India. Adrenalin junkies came to test their driving prowess and pushed their SUVs, jeeps, Gypsys and quad bikes to their limit over mountainous tracts. Since it is a time when streams and waterfalls are swollen, adventure lovers indulged in the thrills of river rafting in bamboo rafts at Kuruvadweep Island or zip-lining at Vythiri Village.

Local outdoor outfit Muddy Boots organised activities that included kayaking, river crossing, hiking, cycling and biking in Wayanad and nearby districts of Coorg and Nilgiris, catering to families, groups and corporates.

Splash started at a time when Wayanad was still coming to grips

with its branding issues. Today, through its relentless efforts, the Wayanad Tourism Organisation (WTO), a consortium of hotels, homestays and hospitality partners, has elevated the region into one of India’s most sought-after destinations. Strategically located at the tri-junction of Kozhikode, Coorg and the Nilgiris, Wayanad owes its popularity to several reasons — prehistoric sites like Edakkal Caves, wildlife zones at Muthanga and Tholpetty, trekking trails to Chembra and Banasura, popular waterfalls like Meenmutty and Soochipara, hoary shrines like Thirunelly, Kottiyoor and Valiyoorkavu, Uravu’s intriguing bamboo handicrafts, proximity to Bangalore and Mysore but above all, stunning resorts in

the midst of nature. Often the drive to a mountain retreat is as incredible as the place itself.

Chief Secretary E.K. Bharat Bhushan, after inaugurating a business meet held in connection with the event, said that Wayanad district is emerging as a major tourist destination in the State. He said that Wayanad was a rare hill station in the State to develop all types of tourism activities, including adventure tourism, heritage tourism, leisure tourism, and farm tourism.

The Chief Secretary also said its proximity to major tourism destinations such as Mysore, Bangalore, and Coorg in Karnataka and Ooty in Tamil Nadu enhanced its tourism potential further.

Delivering the keynote address, S. Harikishore, Director, Tourism Department, said the government was planning to develop the proposed Karapuzha tourism project as the tourism hub of the district and launch a seaplane service to the reservoir.

Jose Kynadi, president, Wayanad Tourism Organisation, presided over the function. Close to 65 stalls of the stakeholders in the hospitality industry from Wayanad; Mysore, Coorg, Bandipur, and Kabani in Karnataka; and Ooty in Tamil Nadu displayed the highlights of their properties.


NEWSLINE

MSI Newswire | Ahammedabad

Gujarat Tourism will unveil a new Tourism Policy by the end of this year. The new

policy will focus on infrastructure development and on bringing in more participation from the private sector, said Vipul Mittra, Principal Secretary, Tourism, Civil Aviation, Pilgrimage & Devasthan (Industries & Mines Department) Government of Gujarat, at the Gujarat Tourism Travel Meet roadshow in Mumbai, conducted by Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Ltd (TCGL) to promote diverse tourism offerings through the ‘Khushboo Gujarat Ki’ campaign, in Maharashtra.

The Meet witnessed participation of around 40 suppliers from Gujarat, comprising hoteliers, resort owners and tour operators who interacted with a large number of travel trade members from Mumbai. Festivals like Monsoon Festival in Saputara, Rann Utsav in Kutch, Navratri Festival and International Kite

Festival were promoted at the Meet.

Addressing the media at the Meet, Saurabhbhai Patel, Minister for Tourism and Industry, Government of Gujarat, said that the focus is on bringing in more investment for the hotel sector. “Apart from infrastructure projects like the Gir Interpretation Zone Ambardi in Amreli, we are currently planning to develop home stay facilities close to the Gir Wildlife Sanctuary as we want tourists to experience the local flavour of daily life in Gujarat while they visit the world-famous sanctuary,” informed Patel. He added, “The government has granted us a fantastic budget of Rs 400 crore for tourism development and we plan to use this to develop tourism infrastructure, as well as promote Gujarat’s offerings domestically and abroad.”

To promote the heritage tourism potential of Ahmedabad, the Ahmedabad

Municipal Corporation (AMC) has decided to restore the glory of the 600-year-old Bhadra Fort and its surrounding areas. Located in the heart of Ahmedabad city, the Bhadra Fort was built by the founder of the city, Sultan Ahmed Shah in 1411 AD, according to an official release.

The restoration project aims to beautify the half-a-kilometre stretch from the fort to the Teen Darwaja. It was the place where Sultan Ahmed Shah used to hold his royal court. The area between Bhadra Fort and Teen Darwaja will be made an exclusive pedestrian zone. Besides the walkway, the project aims to

design a landscape with fountains, lights and signage.

The project will focus to boost the heritage tourism of Ahmedabad, which is also home to many legendary monuments belonging to the Mughal period. The project is being implemented under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) and will be completed by AMC with the help of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

Gujarat Tourism to Introduce New Tourism Policy by Year End

Bhadra Fort to Regain its Glory

IT&CMA and CTW Asia- Pacific 2013

MSI Newswire | Singapore

With just one month till registrations close on 23 August, buyer applications to IT&CMA and

CTW Asia-Pacific 2013 remain in full swing. Till date, over 700 MICE, Corporate Travel, Luxury Travel, Association and Corporate buyers have registered to be at this event in Bangkok – the World’s top destination hotspot according to MasterCard’s Global Destination Cities Index 2013.

The city surpassed even London, Paris and New York with total international visitor arrivals reaching close to 16 million, and is the only city among the top 5 to demonstrate the highest growth at about 10% for the year.

Come 1 to 3 October 2013, a total of some 600 buyers are expected to source at the event that boasts the largest showcase of Asia-Pacific MICE and Corporate Travel suppliers with an added luxury travel dimension.

The World’s Only Doublebill Event in MICE and Corporate Travel will be celebrating its 10th year of co-locating IT&CMA and CTW Asia-Pacific with the largest show to date, where delegate numbers are expected to cross the 2,800 mark. This year’s event will also be featuring 35% new exhibiting organisations on board.

Debuting CVBs include India Tourism, Fukuoka CVB, Sapporo CVB and Tourism New Zealand, while first-time corporates include Federal Hotels International, Fujita Kanko, Globewerks Confex, Melia Hotels International, Panorama Convex, Safaris Adventures Travel and Cargo, Sentosa Leisure Management, Solar Empire and Winsor Suites Hotel Bangkok, amongst others.

State Scan

Explore Caves in MeghalayaCaves might sometimes

frighten you given its dark and murky

interiors but exploring them can bring about a sense of excitement and a lot of fun too. If caves are on your mind then the numerous natural caves all over Meghalaya, which are a special attraction for tourists, will provide you with the excitement you are seeking.

A few of them are even the longest you can find in the Indian Sub-continent. You find them in the East Khasi Hills, Jaintia Hills and the South Garo Hills. And you really don't have to go searching for them either - Meghalaya State Tourism offers a packaged tour exclusively for the caves. Cave exploration is a relatively new sport in India and got a boost after the Meghalaya state government started assisting

local adventure clubs to promote off-beat tourism.Khasi Hills

The major caves in the Khasi Hills are located in the areas of Cherrapunjee, Shella, Pynursla, Nongjri, Mawsynram and Langrin. Krem Mawmluh

The cave is situated approximately half a kilometre west of Cherrapunjee adjacent to the small hamlet of Mawmluh. This cave interestingly has a five river passage with impressive proportions. With a length of 4503m it is currently the 4th longest in the Indian sub continent.

Krem Dam: It is the largest sandstone cave in the Indian sub-continent. The impressive entrance of Krem Dam, measuring some 30 m across, lies at the foot of a large blind valley approximately 1 km to the east of Mawsynram

village. Krem Lymput

The cave lies about 6 km. from the village of Nongjri. The inconspicuous entrance hidden in the jungle covered boulders reveals itself by the cool air it blows. It is another beautiful and rather easy cave for any tourist.

From the small entrance hole, the main trunk passage runs for about 1 km with inclined walls and ceiling towards west into a passage known as 'Way to Heaven," which is a very loose and slippery climb. It leads into a series of spacious galleries which are very rich in calcite formations. Here, the great attraction is the Mughal Room (more than 25 m wide, 25 m high, and 75 m long). Mawsmai Cave

This cave is the only cave that is fully lighted. The cave can be divided into two

parts (old and new). Of the two, the new cave is yet to be lighted. It has impressive formations of large passages and chambers.Krem Mawjymbuin

The entrance chamber of some 50 metres across and 4 metres high at its centre, has a large stalactite over a female stalagmite which gives an impression of a Shiva Lingam. This cave has now become a sacred shrine for Hindu believers.JAINTIA HILLS

Jowai a picturesque town situated on the Shillong - Silchar national highway is circled by the Myntdu river. In the vicinity of Jowai are numerous thrilling caves & caverns used as hideouts during war time between Jaintia Kings and foreign intruders. The villages of Amlarem, Pdengshakap, Syndai and Nongtalang are


State Scan

dotted with such caves and caverns.Krem Kotsati

This cave has 8 entrances with the main entrance through a deep pool. Portions of the beautiful river passage have to be traverse by swimming or by using

inflatable rubber boat. Length: 3650m. Krem Umshangktat

The entrance passage of 350 metres offers a comfortable stroll on moist sand. The last stretch requires a mild climb across fallen limestone blocks and debris

to reach the collapse doline of the upper entrance. By the collapse there is a belly crawl passage which eventually terminates in a sizeable chamber. Length: 955m.Krem Lashinng (Pdengshakap, 37 kms from Jowai)

A massive cave measuring 50m wide and 40m high.) Due to the huge amount of sticky and slippery mud in the cave, the best period to visit would be Feb/March. Length: 2650m.Krem Sweep (Syndai)

47 kms from Jowai : The cave is situated just a few minutes walk from behind the village school in a depression. It has beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. Length: 970m.Caves in Garo Hills

Garo hills known for its abundance of wild life, should interest naturalist and photographers to capture the facts of life of animals and the flora and fauna. Two mountain ranges- the Arabella range and the Tura range, passage through the Garo Hills, forming the great Balpakram Valley in between. Tetengkol Balwakol

Four kilometres north of Nengkhong village, are the two adjacent 1 m diameter circular entrances of Tetengkol Balwakol which lead to 5.7 km of dendritic river cave which also contains a maze of stooping to walking size passages. For such a small entrance it is really amazing to find behind it, a large and sizeable cave.Siju Cave

132 kms from Tura, Siju is famous for Dobakkol or the bat cave with impressive stalagmites and stalagtites. It is one of the longest cave in the Indian Sub-continent and contains some of the finest river passages to be found any where in the world. There are magnificent limestone rock formations inside, especially

named princes, Di's chamber by the excavators will fill any visitor with awe.Dangedikol Chiningkrikol

The 18m wide and 12m high entrance leads to a largish meandering stream passage. The cave houses a large population of bats. With 1352m of surveyed length, the cave is still ongoing.Korekol

A tunnel cave connecting a sink in the downstream end of valley in pinnacle karst to a resurgence at the rim of (the locally) shallow limestone outcrop below Matrongkol. An inspiring entrance (15m wide, 3.5m high) leads to a boulder collapse obstructed by driftwood but a squeeze to the top of a 2m climb down gains a dirty, shallow pool from where a north-south running passage (on average 7 m wide, 2.5 m high) continues below a daylight window (15m above) to enter a Y-junction. Here North South passage turns to the right, continuing all the way (185m, inclined by-7º) to the resurgence as a North-North East-South-South West passage. Some 50m from the Y-junction, the main drag splits into two parallel 20m-passages (the right/north-western one requires swimming but the left is dry). They unite at a cross-rift chamber, split again, and re-unite once more to continue from then onward as a level passage to a daylight-lit collapse area at the rim of the limestone outcrop.


26

COLUMN

V Duraikkannan

There are two prominent areas in Chennai by name

Park and Greenways - one is a busy railway station near the harbour and the other is a kind of VIP enclave where most of the ministers of the state stay. The surprising information is that they are not named for any open land for recreational purpose (park) or for any avenue lined with verdant trees (greenway) but actually named after two British officials by name Park and Greenway respectively.

More than discovery, rediscovery is the need of the hour when we look at historic personages and places. When we approach history with an open mind and objective outlook, we could be in for a lot of alternative information, and in the process hit upon some unsaid and hidden facts too.

Prof.P.N.Oak was not a Professor but an army personnel and journalist. Despite his British-sounding name, he was out and out an Indian born in Indore, his full name being Purushottam Nagesh Oak ( 1917-2007). His writings which are available in three languages, Hindi,

Marathi, and English are good eye-openers which can be taken with a pinch of salt, if necessary. Some call him an inspired crackpot at his offering of revisionist theories on Christianity and Islam claiming that they were from Hinduism. But his narrations and arrangement of facts are definitely interesting and worth giving a onceover.

He says the very name 'Christianity' is a mutilation of 'Krishna Neeti' meaning the 'Way of Krishna' or 'Justice of Krishna'. 'Vatican' is from Sanskrit 'Vatika', meaning a 'hermitage' and 'Islam' is ' Ishalaya' meaning ' Temple of Shiva' ( Isha - Shiva & Alaya - Temple).

His claim that the name 'Taj Mahal' is actually a corruption of 'Tejo Mahalaya' ( Temple Palace of Lord Shiva) cannot be summarily rejected as invalid for the suggestive facts to the contrary are too many. Firstly, he claims her name was never Mumtaz Mahal but Mumtaz-ul-Zamani. Secondly, one cannot omit the first three letters ‘Mum’ from a woman’s name to keep the remainder as the name for the building. He also adds that nowhere in the

world of Islam from Algeria to Afghanistan, a mausoleum is called a 'Mahal'. According to Oak, it was a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and worshipped by the Rajputs of Agra City. The Shiva temple palace was usurped by Shah Jahan from then Maharaja of Jaipur, Jai Singh. In his own court chronicle, Badshahnama, Shah Jahan admits that an exceptionally beautiful grand mansion in Agra was taken from Jai Singh for Mumtaz’s burial.

Those who brand him a 'mythistorian' ( a portmanteau word of mythologist and historian) may possibly rightly call him so. Yet the alternative view should be considered for its own merit when it gets authenticated at all.

Pahalgam, the beautiful town in the Anantnag District of Jammu & Kashmir is connected with the life of Jesus, according to the German author Holger Kristen who has made a very exhaustive and methodical study of the person (Jesus) and the place (Pahalgam) presented in his landmark book ' Jesus Lived In India' (1986). The author has claimed


27

COLUMN

with substantial proof that Jesus had spent his so-called 'Unknown Years' (from his age of 13 to 30) in India and lived in this place. Hence the name of the place 'Pahalgam' as well, as 'Pahal' + 'Gam' means ' the Shepherd's Village' (referring to his epithet, the Shepherd')!

The concept of re-discovery applies to every other avenue of knowledge as well. It was Pythagoras(580-500 BC) who

coined the term 'mathematics' in 6th century for the study of numbers . Pythagoras deemed there was genius in numbers and hence the name 'mathematics' ,'mathema' meaning 'knowledge' in Greek ( akin to Tamil 'Methai' for 'Genius').

Tripoli is the capital and chief port and largest city of Libya, in north-western Libya on the Mediterranean Sea .Affectionately called

'the Mermaid of the Mediterranean', The city was founded by Phoenicians from Tyre, in the 7th century BC and they called the city Oea. The Arab name for Tripoli is Tarabulus al Gharb ( 'Tripoli of the West' to distinguish it from the other Tripoli in the Middle East in Lebanon).

'Tripoli' means 'Three Cities' in Greek ( Tri - Three & Polis - City) and the famous three cities that made up the capital are : Sabratha (Zwagha), Leptis Magna (Lubdah) and Oea (Tripoli).

Great Britain is called great not for its people or for its language English or for its sovereignty over the world ( the sun never sets in British Empire!) but for its relative 'greater' size (229,848 km² against 34,023 km² as compared with the

other Britain in France called Brittany!

A re-discovery in the world of earth-science from a philosophical angle of thinking would reveal that 'humus' is soil and that man is called 'human' for he ultimately goes into the very soil (humus) after his death!

From the sphere of medicine, we have the neurotic condition called 'Hysteria'. It was originally thought of an ailment very peculiar to women caused by the dysfunction of the uterus ( hence the name 'hysteria' which is Greek for the Latin 'uterus', meaning womb or belly, akin to Sanskrit 'udaram').

Rediscovering is equally exciting as inventing and that is why the French sculptor, Auguste Rodin said : ' I invent nothing; I rediscover!'


28

NEWSLINE


MSI Newswire | Malasya

As Visit Malaysia Year 2014 approaches, the bouquet of travelling audiences to

Malaysia is expanding. Evidence to this expanse is the recent shoot of the popular comedy series “Chintu ban gaya Gentleman” which is currently underway in Malaysia. The series produced by Deepti Bhatnagar Productions and aired on SAB TV, has set a new benchmark as the first Television series to be filmed at Malaysia.

Speaking on this progressive development, Manoharan Periasamy, Director Tourism Malaysia, said, “. We are extremely delighted to see the Indian Television Industry moving eastwards, exploring the Malaysian geography for their episode sequences. This project initiation is in continuation to momentum set by the Bollywood, Tollywood and

other film industries from India who are actively considering Malaysia as the ideal shooting location for their upcoming films.

“To ensure Malaysia offers the best to the global film industry, we have initiated several projects within the country to facilitate production and post-production of films with state of art technology support. The launch of the Pinewood Studios at Johor is a move towards this effect”, he added.

MSI Newswire | Mumbai

Sarovar Hotels, the fastest growing hotel management company in India, announced

the signing of The Premiere, Nairobi in Kenya, thus strengthening its foothold in Africa. The upscale hotel will be the group’s third property in Africa after New Africa in Dar-Es-Salaam, Tanzania and The Heron Portico in Nairobi.

The Premiere is slated to open in 2015. This 144-room property is located in the Airport complex of Embakasi, convenient for the business travellers arriving in Nairobi to have a comfortable and luxurious stay near the airport. The hotel will also offer dining and conferencing venues complete with many other modern facilities.

Commenting on the signing of The Premiere, Nairobi, Anil Madhok, Managing Director, Sarovar Hotels & Resorts said, “The Premiere will be our third hotel in Africa and second in Nairobi, which is an established hub for business and culture. India is increasingly showing interest in Africa as a market and we too are of the belief that Africa has a huge potential in the hospitality segment.”

Malaysia Hosts Deepti Bhatnagar’s “Chintu Ban Gaya Gentleman”

Sarovar Strengthens Foothold in Africa

The Fern Residency Opens at Gurgaon

MSI Newswire | Gurgaon

The Fern Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of The Fern Residency, Gurgaon, the brand’s 16th

hotel and the only one in the National Capital Region, an official release stated.

A premium business hotel, The Fern Residency, Gurgaon has 42 spacious rooms in two categories, four indoor conference venues, The Fern Club Lounge, spa services, high-speed internet, a fine dining restaurant, a German-inspired bar and a host of facilities suited for the premium business traveller.

“The Fern Residency, Gurgaon is a premium hotel offering the contemporary traveller the latest business facilities. We welcome it to our growing family. This signing keeps us on track to open 10 hotels & resorts in the coming months as one of India’s fastest growing hospitality brands,” said Param Kannampilly, Chairman & Managing Director, Concept Hospitality Pvt. Ltd.

29

1. When was Facebook founded?

2. What is called ' water hemisphere'?

3. What is 'opisthenar' in medicine?

4. What is the collective noun for lizards?

5. Which city was known as 'Sunda Kelapa' for long, after its ancient port?

6. What is called 'the Square Mile'?

7. Where is Phoenix Park, one of the largest walled city parks in the Eu-rope?

8. Where is the famous Raffles Hotel?

9. Which American city's name would mean ' Brotherly Love'?

10. Who was the first Honorary Citizen of USA ?Compiled by : DEEKAY

Send in your answers to [email protected] with TYKC 69 in the subject line.Answers should reach us before the 30th of this month.

Answers to TYKC 681. Eleven (Washington, Virginia, West Virginia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, Maryland, New York, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Louisiana) 2. Hockey & Lacrosse 3. Brazil (2800 miles) 4. Tirana, Albania (Mother Teresa's birth-place) 5. Morocco (Royal Air Maroc) 6. SAS (Scandinavian Airlines System) 7. It is Spanish for ' the Meadows' 8. Dan-ish krone (Greenland , though autonomous as a country, is part of Danish kingdom) 9. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil 10. It is a 16-day festival celebrating beer held annually in Munich, German

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WINNER OF TYKC 68

One all-correct entry will getFree Stay at UDS, Kovalam

[ 2 nights and 3 days for two ]*

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With its sleek and stylish design, Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel is nothing less than a golden feather in the cap of Kovalam beach. Located just 15 metres from the sea, this four star hotel can well be categorised into a destination in itself. Its philosophy of combining the best elements of incomparable lifestyle, with the convenience of today’s modern world through exceptional standards of luxury, elegance and services, is well reflected in its products and services and has put the Uday Samudra Beach Hotel, popularly known as UDS, at the top position, in Kovalam. What is more noteworthy about UDS Kovalam is the international flair it sports.

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Test your knowledge contest 69


30

MOVERS & SHAKERS

Gaurav Aggarwal, appointed as head the Sales Function of Fairfield by Marriott, Bengaluru.

Rajat Sethi, appointed as the General Manager of Radisson Blu MBD, Noida.

Subhrajit Bardhan, appointed as Executive Assistant Manager-Rooms, of Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa

Vishvapreet Singh Cheema, appointed as General Manager at Radisson Blu Plaza Delhi.

Albin V. Dominic, appointed as AGM Marketing of Asian Traveller.

Hussain Abdul Rahman, appointed as New Country Manager in India by Gulf Air.

Ashish Sud, appointed as the Director of Finance, Hotel Operations.

& &

Sherin Naiken, appointed as CEO for Seychelles Tourism Board.

Tanveer Singh, appointed as Director Sales and Marketing of Singhotel Group.

Parul Thakur, appointed as the General Manager of JW Marriot, Bengaluru.


Documents

At august 2013