Malaysian Death Row Inmates Datchinamurthy, Pannir, and Saminathan : Appealing Heard Today

Singapore’s death penalty clemency never fades Malaysians from the injustice case of Nagaenthran Dharmalingam.
In a recent update, it seems to have another three Malaysians condemned to death row for falling into the wrong crowd or making a miserable life mistake.
According to FMT, Datchinamurthy Kataiah, Pannir Selvam Pranthaman, and Saminathan Selvaraju are among the three Malaysians on death row in Singapore for drug trafficking and will have their appeals heard at the republic’s appellate court today (20 January 2023).
Datchinamurthy was scheduled to be executed last year. However, he managed to obtain a stay of execution from the Singapore High Court at the 11th hour pending his legal suit against the Singapore government over his death sentence. He was charged with smuggling 44.96g of diamorphine into Singapore in 2011 and sentenced to death in 2015.
IMAGE CREDIT: THE VIBES ( DATCHINAMURTHY KATAIAH)
Pannir was charged in Singapore for trafficking heroin in 2017 while Saminathan was charged with trafficking diamorphine with two others in 2013.
IMAGE CREDIT: YAHOO NEWS SINGAPORE
A fourth Malaysian, Gobi Avedian, who was convicted of drug offenses but was not handed the death sentence will also be appealing his case.
IMAGE CREDIT: MALAYSIA NOW ( GOBI AVEDIAN)
FMT also reported that Gobi was arrested on 11 December 2014, at the Woodlands Checkpoint and subsequently handed a capital charge of importing 40.22g of heroin but a High Court judge acquitted him of the capital charge and reduced it to one of attempted drug importation in 2017. Gobi is now facing a 15-year jail sentence and 10 strokes of the cane, with the sentence, backdated to the date of his remand.
The last Malaysian to be executed in Singapore for drugs was Kalwant Singh. He was hanged in July. Kalwant was convicted in June 2016 of possessing 60.15g of diamorphine and trafficking 120.9g of the drug in the city-state.
Source: (1)
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Filed Under and Saminathan SelvarajuDatchinamurthy KataiahDatchinamurthy was scheduled to be executed last yearlast Malaysian to be executed in Singapore for drugs was Kalwant SinghNagaenthran Dharmalingam.Pannir Selvam PranthamanPannir was charged in Singapore for trafficking heroin in 2017Singapore’s death penalty


WATCH: Amala Paul Kicks Butt in Adho Andha Paravai Pola

Actress Amala Paul was last seen on screen in Aadai. Next up, the actress will be seen in the thriller Adho Andha Paravai Pola, directed by Vinoth K.R.
The director has revealed that the film is all about a young lady who takes on a wild forest and even wilder humans. How she escapes against all odds while encountering interesting, sometimes dangerous characters and episodes forms this adventure thriller.

Amala Paul appears to go all out in the fight scenes. Sources reveal that she has taken up martial arts training in order to perfect her performance. Ashish Vidyarthi and Sameer Kochchar will be starring with Amala Paul in Adho Andha Paravai Pola.
The film hits screens this Valentines Day.

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Sivaprasad & Logeswaran; Inspiring Youths Venture Into Chilli Farming

Engaging youth in agriculture has been a major concern lately. It has risen to the top of the development strategy, as there is rising concern around the world that young people are losing interest in agriculture.
But, surprisingly these two young graduates who lost their jobs in Singapore are gaining recognition among the Malaysians in chilli farming field.
Image Credit: Shiva Prasanth Arumugam Facebook
Known as Sivaprasad and Logeswaran, they started sprouting chilies on the 0.32-hectare plot of land in Padang Tembak, near Kluang, Johor. It was a success for them as all their hard works paid off. Both were left in limbo when their previous working place was about to shut down amid the pandemic peak.
“Farming is a profession of hope.” — Brett Brian
As their business grew, they were confronted with a new challenge: the landowner wanted to sell the plot. Kluang MIC chairman Raman M. Gobinayer, impressed by the youth’s initiative, sought the assistance of state exco representatives for agriculture, agro-based manufacturing, and rural development Samsolbari Jamali and for health and environment R. Vidyananthan on their behalf.
Image Credit: Shiva Prasanth Arumugam Facebook
They intend to assist the duo in securing the property by finding an appropriate plot to begin their estate.
Well done guys! Continue to be an inspiration for all the youths out there!
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Filed Under Chilli FarmingklangSingaporeSivaprasad & LogeswaranYoung grad


Marghazhi Thingal; Suhasini Maniratnam Collaborates With Eight Artistes On Music Video

Marghazhi Thingal, a devotional Tamil song ascribed to the female poet-saint Andal is  produced by Suhasini Maniratnam.
The piece is recreated by the talented musician Ravi G and sung by Uma Iyer, Revathy, Nithya Menen, Ramya Nambessan, Anu Hasan, Kaniha, Jaishree, Suhasini Mani Ratnam and Shobana.
Among the twelve Alwars-medieval Vaishnavite poets who brought the scriptures to the masses, Andal was the only woman who wrote hymns in Tamil that are known to be the equivalent of the Sanskrit Vedas. Andal appears next to Vishnu, along with Shridevi (Lakshmi), as his consort, Bhoodevi, the personification of earth.

Although Indians might have heard of the Andal goddess, and some may even have heard the recitation of her poetry in the month of Markazhi, most would not have been able to grasp it. So this translation of her eighth-century Tamil books, Thiruppavai and Nachiyar Thirumozhi, is of importance to both Tamilians and non-Tamilians, to those who are familiar with her story and to those who are not. Andal, a Bhakti saint, like Akka Mahadevi or Meera, loved Krishna since she was a child; she refused to be engaged to any mortal man as a teenager.
HER RICH CONTRIBUTION TO TAMIL LITERATURE IS GLOSSED OVER BY THE ATTRIBUTION OF MOTHERHOOD AND THROUGH THIS PROCESS HER WORKS ARE DESEXUALISED.
Watch the full music video here:
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Filed Under anu hasanJaishreeKanihamargazhi thingalNithya MenenRamya NambessanrevathyShobanaSuhasini Mani RatnamUma Iyer


Introducing Superintendent Saravanan As Head of National Central Bureau (NCB/ INTERPOL)

Superintendent Saravanan Kanniappan has made the Indian community proud after being appointed as Head of the NCB (National Central Bureau) Interpol, Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Royal Malaysia Police which was effective on 1st July 2021.
He received his early education from SJK (T) Ladang Ayer Tawar, Perak and pursued his Masters in Criminal Justice at Universiti Malaya (UM) after obtaining his degree in Biomedical Science from Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM). His forensic dreams came true by joining the police force.
Hailing from Ayer Tawar in Sitiawan, the 44-year-old officer started his career in 2003 as a Senior Investigating Officer and has vast experience serving in the Criminal Investigation and Anti-Narcotics Department in various investigation capacities.
In 2010, he was also awarded a Chevening Scholarship to study for an MSc in Forensic Medical Sciences at Queen Mary University of London and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry. He also holds a PhD in Security and Crime Science (Forensic Taphonomy).
He also serves as a Police Superintendent of the Forensic DNA Databank of Malaysia. Congratulations on your appointment, Superintendent Saravanan Kanniappan!
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Filed Under Criminal Investigation and Anti-Narcotics DepartmentCriminal Investigation DepartmenHead of National Central Bureau (NCB/ INTERPOL)Superintendent Saravanan Kanniappan


Dr Kaarthigan Ramaiah Helps Cancer Patient in Singapore Bid Final Goodbye To Father In Malaysia

Cancer patient Tang Lijuan only had one wish, to reunite with her elderly father in Batu Pahat. The 46-year-old had been working in Singapore since 1995 and eventually became a permanent resident.
But her condition took a turn for the worse early this year at Mt Elizabeth Hospital, and time was running out. She was repatriated from Singapore to Malaysia amid stricter travel restrictions by both countries to curb the spread of COVID-19 on May 21, with the help of many, including Dr Kaarthigan Ramaiah.
Source: MSNEWS
Dr. Kaarthigan, a director at Lifesaver Ambulance Johor was with the patient in an ambulance throughout the two-hour journey to the Putra Specialist Hospital Batu Pahat.
“at the pickup location..my pilot brought the stretcher and we transported the patient as fast as we can to Hospital Putra while I’m trying to give my best management to the patient,” wrote Dr. Kaarthigan in a Facebook post.
Source: MSNEWS
According to Dr Kaarthigan, the ambulance reached the hospital as scheduled with the patient’s father seen waiting at the emergency entrance. Before the ambulance driver had pulled the handbrake, her father had already attempted to open the vehicle’s door to see his daughter.

“Once the patient was out from the ambulance, both father and daughter were speechless, no single word came out but only tears. (Goosebumps),” he wrote.
Dr Kaarthigan ended his posting by saying: “We received the news that she passed away yesterday (May 22). She was a brave warrior. May her soul rest in peace.”

News Credit: MSNEWS
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Filed Under Battle from stage 4 cancerDirector of Lifesaver Ambulance JohorDr Kaarthigan RamaiahMs Tang Lijuan


Kisona Selvaduray; The Highest Ranked Women’s Singles Player Under The BA of Malaysia (BAM) Stable

Kisona Selvaduray now stands as the highest ranking women’s singles player under the BA of Malaysia (BAM) stable.
Picture credit: The Star
Whilst still, the World No 62 is only the second-highest ranking Malaysian, she will be at the centre of the badminton world after Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) had recently dropped No 32nd-ranked Soniia Cheah.
The first mission of Kisona is to break into the top 30 of the world Ranking before the end of the season.
After her two peak events last month in Bangkok, the 23-year-old believes in her capabilities as a national shuttler..
Kisona was initially defeated by India’s Saina Nehwal during the first round at the Yonex Thailand Open, but outperformed in the Toyota Thailand Open by reaching the second round of the game before losing to India’s reigning world champion P.V. Sindhu.
The Negeri Sembilan born is now in preparation for next month’s All England and Orleans Masters.
Kisona, who had initially travelled to Bangkok as a sparring partner said;
I was lucky to qualify for the two Thailand Opens. I was ready and did my best. As a shuttler, you need to be ready as opportunities may just come knocking on your door.
The shuttler hopes to start collecting valuable ranking points at the All England on March 17-22.
The 2019 Sea Games Champion further says;
I’m currently No 62 in the world, and of course, it will not be easy to break into the top 30. However, I want to do it. That is my target for the year.
On whether being a No 1 BAM player adds pressure, Kisona added;
I don’t think it is pressure. It is a responsibility. To represent the country as the first singles player is a huge responsibility. I am ready for it, but I will have to work hard.
Playing in top-tier events allows me to gauge my performance against the best. I feel good during training, but that alone is not enough. I need to start proving my ability on the bigger stage.
Compatriots Lee Ying Ying and Goh Jin Wei will also compete in the Orleans Masters in France on March 23-28.
Source: NST
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Filed Under Kisona ranks world 62kisona world women's single


Ashnaa’s Irudhi Tharunam Devoted To Declarations Of Love

Love could be expressed in a variety of ways, but what is the most universal?
Music!
Some songs become standouts simply because of the lyrics and Irudhi Tharunam is one of the tunes. It stands out as an uplifting, yet groovy love song.
Ashnaa Sasikaran’s pitch-perfect vocals combined with line after line of heartwarming lyrics and expression of the both dancers are the winning combo behind this song. For me personally, it’s a romantic tune that arguably puts the singer on the map, where she truly delivers.

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A post shared by Ashnaa Sasikaran (@ashnaa_ns)

Whether you’re building a playlist for an evening with the special person in your life or planning a simple brunch, this unique tune is likely to give you all the feels—and get you dancing too. Featuring Praveena Pranavarooban, Tharun Singam, Twinkle, Martin Soosaipillai, and Chloe Kupashini, it didn’t take long for this song to win the hearts of netizens as it gets stuck in your head all too easily.
 One thing is for sure that the song connects with other aspects of emotion in a way that’ll have you playing it on repeat.
Watch the full music video here:

Let’s give a special shout out to those who have shed sweats for making this video outstanding:
Videography & Photography – CC7 Visuals (Caliston Calistus)
Video director – CC7 (Caliston Calistus)
Music Production – MJ Melodies
Mixing & Mastering – MJ Melodies
Lyricists – Agilan Smanickam & Vani Sasikaran
Violinist – Ramanan Nathan
Guitarist – Janathan Karunakaran
Colour Grading – H-BEARTX
Stylist for Ashnaa – Amz
MUAH artist for Ashnaa – Suganthy MUA
MUAH artist for Praveena – GlambyThulasy
Henna – Javeys Makeup Academy
BTS Shoot 1 – Senthan Nadarajah
BTS Shoot 2 – Tharun Singam
BTS Shoot 3 – Veenaa Sasikaran
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Filed Under Ashnaa SasikaranChloe KupashiniIrudhi TharunamLove music videoMartin SoosaipillaiPraveena Pranavaroobanslow danceTharun SingamTwinkle


STPM; Blood, Sweat And Tears Paid Off For These Bright Malaysian Indian Students

Great success requires greater sacrifices, and our Malaysian Indian students have exemplified this!
A total of 741 candidates of the Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) in 2020 scored the Cumulative Grade Points Average (CGPA) of 4.00 or four flat. Some of these high achievers come from struggling B40 communities. All things are possible and today calls for a celebration!

The roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet. – Aristotle

Check out who these bright young hopefuls are, below:
Rajesri A/P V.Murugan – 3.75 PNGK

Kishantini A/P Raju –  4.00 PNGK

Tesyia Naveen – 4.00 PNGK

Kevin David – 3.84 PNGK

Martin Luke – 4.00 PNGK

 S.Navanisha – 4.00 PNGK

Jonathan Raj David – 3.08 PNGK

Dandreyen David – 3.42 PNGK

Vinnarasi Chandran – 3.92 PNGK

S.Maveen Kumar –  3.92 PNGK

Angel Reena – 2.50 PNGK

Narmatha Devi – 3.33 PNGK

Those who obtained a lower score should understand that their talent lies in other equally purposeful avenues, and should not feel aggrieved. You’re just as brilliant and valuable as the rest of them.
It’s very gratifying and humbling that teachers and family members have come together, in order to see our young Indians excel in their studies. Congratulations guys!
Info Source: Santhanar Dronachariyar & Concerned UM Indian Graduates – CUMIG Facebook page
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Filed Under B40 GroupDandreyen DavidJonathan Raj DavidKevin DavidKishantiniMalaysian Indian StudentsMartin LukeRajesriS.Maveen KumarS.NavanishaSijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM)Tesyia NaveenVinnarasi Chandran


Shalini Balasundram & Kabil Ganesan Reunite For ‘Pulanaivu’

Following the success of the telemovie Rail Payangal, Malaysian actors Shalini Balasundram and Kabil Ganesan have reunited for another film titled Pulanaivu.

Yesterday, the team released the first promotional poster for Pulanaivu that shows Kabil pointing a gun to Shalini’s head. The romantic crime thriller will be in cinemas in a yet-to-be announced date. Bankrolled by Shaibha Vision and Story Films, the film boasts a talented cast that includes Datin Sri Shaila V, Shalini Balasundaram, Kabil Ganesan, Saran, Krithigah Nair, Shabby ,Irfan , Pashini and many more.

The first single for Pulanaivu will be released on 24 July.
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Filed Under Datin Sri Shaila VIrfanKabil Ganesankrithigah NairPashiniPulanaivuSaranShabbyShalini Balasundaram


Vicky Ganesan, The Jewellery Designer Who Adds A Whimsical Twist To The Jhumkha

When the Malayalam song, “Jimki Kammal” went viral, we thought that it would be a great anthem for Vicky G Jewellery.
Vicky Ganesan, the founder of Vicky G Jewellery, has come a long way from her career as PR practitioner. When she moved to Australia with her family, Vicky was eager to find an outlet for creative expression. One thing led to another and Vicky soon found herself in a metalsmith workshop. Vicky learned how to mould, melt, cast and fill elements and transform them into wearable art. Using the traditional bell-shaped Indian earrings, the Jhumkha, as her main source of inspiration, Vicky starting adding modern twists and tales to it. The Jhumkha that Vicky produced received a facelift of colours, elements, beads and even feathers, while still maintaining their authentic shape and form.

Since its establishment, Vicky G Jewellery has produced eclectic, globally-inspired and exquisitely hand-crafted pieces of jewellery that have been sold worldwide.
We get up close and personal with the incredibly talented Vicky Ganesan on her journey down the road less taken. WATCH IT RIGHT HERE:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YkmTr_dbVN4Video can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: Vicky Ganesan – WOMEN OF IMPACT 2019 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YkmTr_dbVN4)

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Filed Under jewelleryjewellery designVicky gVicky ganesanWOMEN OF IMPACT 2019


Amy Jackson Gets Cosy With Her Boyfriend & We Can Hear Hearts Breaking

Although we’re not her biggest fans, Amy Jackson is probably the most talked-about heroine in Tamil cinema. This Liverpool-born beauty has melted countless hearts and garnered throngs of fans with her exotic beauty.
It is no secret that Amy Jackson is off the market, but some of you may not know who her new beau is. Amy is currently dating multi-millionaire/entrepreneur George Panayiotou, son of real estate tycoon Andreas Panayiotou. George is apparently the owner of a fancy nightclub in Queens’ City.

The two met via mutual friends and have been dating for quite some time now. Amy very rarely shares photos of him on her Instagram page, although we have tracked down some, but it is not very clear how long exactly have they been dating.
On her recent trip back home, she shared more photos of herself and George, looking looking cosy, happy, and absolutely in love.

If it true that she’s met the man of her dreams, then we’re happy for her!
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Filed Under Amy Jackson


“Pachai Pavadai, Manjal Thaavani” – Soya Cincau Director, Ravivarma Vicraman Talks About The Viral Ad

The era of remarkable Deepavali ads have finally returned to Malaysia! Enrico’s ghee was previously synonymous with the green tin yellow lid song that will remain etched into our brains forever. All of that is changing, with their latest Deepavali advertisement, Soya Cincau.

The 9 minute ad depicts the age-old Malaysian story of interracial love, marred by overprotective family members, set in the estates in the 1980s. Just when you think that this is going to be one of those teary-eyed Petronas advertisements, the viewers are surprised by a full on song and dance sequence. There’s also a sad segment, a fight scene and a Rajinikanth reference, before the final twist in the end, just like a typical Tamil movie!
Soya Cincau was conceptualised, directed and produced by Candy Factory Studios. The man behind it, Ravivarma Vicraman speaks to Varnam about what drove him to come up with this beautiful piece of work that really hits home.
Ravivarma Vicraman, the man behind Soya Cincau
“Interracial marriages were common in the estates back in the day. This was my basic premise of the story,” he tells us. Soya Cincau stars Vanizha, Blake Yap, Prakash, Sashidaran, Vishnu, Janani, Sree Divya, Lavaniya, Gandhinathan, Veerasingam and Anthony, with the final voice over by Saran Narayanan.
“When I prepared the script, I knew that I wanted to cast Vanizha. She would fit the role perfectly,” Needless to say, she did an outstanding job. Filmmaker and actor, #Chinepaiyan Blake Yap was incredible as the lovestruck estate boy.

“The ad took 12 days to film in a small town called Jeram. But the real challenge was the pre-production,” Ravivarma tells us that the pre-production took two months because the team had to build the sets, source the attire and perfect the setup before shooting began. “We really wanted to embody the 1980s in the advertisement, so we worked really hard on that,”
Ravivarma and his team ensured that it stayed true to the era. “As for the wardrobe and the look for the cast, we illustrated everything from the hairstyle to their attire. We made sure that it matched the time we were trying to portray,”

“The wardrobe, hair and lifestyle references were all credits of my mother and grandmother, as we lived in the estate for a few years back in the day,” he tells us. “During the thiruvizha, there will be plenty of photos taken at the studios, and my father and his friends would pose, wearing the garlands and all. I made sure to incorporate that into Soya Cincau,”
“The entire team had a great time working on Soya Cincau. I try to ensure that the work environment is stress free, by making sure that the pre-production work is comprehensive, and as a result, the cast and crew had a great time executing it,”
Candy Factory Studios was started by Ravivarma in 2012, and since, he has directed numerous music videos and advertisements. They worked on Enrico’s Deepavali advertisement last year, Ninaivugal, which also went viral.
The company has worked with the likes of American rapper Lil Jon, and large corporations like Media Prima, Mercedes Benz, Leo Burnett, RTM, Faber Castell, Astro and Bank Negara Malaysia.
This advertisement is just another highlight in Ravivarma’s career. “I have learned so much from Soya Cincau, and I am still learning with every project I undertake,”
Ravivarma shares his upcoming plans with us, “I’m working on my first feature film now. I have been writing this story for the past 8 years. This will be a movie that’s going to be watched by people of all races. I can picture them sitting in the cinema and watching it together!”
Soya Cincau is truly an ode to Malaysia, kudos to the team behind the video. And congratulations, Enricos, your new song “Pachai pavadai, manjal thaavani” is going to be play in our minds every time we reach for your ghee.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gz7d0D6YCF8Video can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: ENRICO'S DEEPAVALI 2019 – SOYA CINCAU (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gz7d0D6YCF8)

Keep up with Ravivarma’s projects by following him on Instagram here.
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Chiyaan Vikram’s Nephew Debuts In ‘Polladha Ulagil Bayangara Game’ (PUBG)

We are really excited about this next film.
Inspired by PlayersUnknown’s BattleGround (PUBG) this film is titled ‘Polladha Ulagil Bayangara Game’ to have the same acronym is the original game. The comedy thriller stars Bigg Boss Tamil fame Aishwarya Dutta. It will also feature the debut of Chiyaan Vikram’s nephew, Arjuman.

The director of the film, Vijay Sri G, met Arjuman through a publicist and felt like the role suited him well from his look and man bun. When he found Arjuman, Vijay Sri G had no idea that he was the nephew of Chiyaan Vikram. He was quick to find out the two were indeed family when he made a comparison between Arjuman and Vikram’s looks.

Aishwarya Rajesh in PUBG. Image: silverscreen.in

Arjuman will be battling against Aishwarya’s character in the film. ‘Polladha Ulagil Bayangara Game’ will also feature Mottai Rajendran and Bigg Boss Julie as crime branch officers.

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Filed Under Aishwarya DuttaarjumanChiyaan vikramPolladha Ulagil Bayangara GamePUBGVikram


Abinayashree Meyappan Wins The Top 10 Young Talent Of The MonStar Awards 2022

MonStar Awards 2022 recently held at the Panggung DBKL on Nov 26 announced its top 10 winners out of the 100 finalists. Winning this Top 10 prestigious place is the youngest of all participants Abinayashree Meyappan.
Abinayashree is one of the winners among six Malaysians chosen for the Top 10 MonStar Awards of this year. The 18-year-old, that grew up in a B40 community strived and led no excuses to stop her from changing the world around her. Today she is known to be the Head of Publicity of Ascendance and has traveled to schools across 11 states in Malaysia to share her journey and experiences for other Gen Z’s to have equal opportunities and resources like her.
“I was clueless and did not know what to do with life at a young age. It all changed when Ascendance provided me with the opportunity to discover myself and guided me to build my career even when I was just a student,” said the 18-year-old (Ascendance is an international youth movement program).
“My family was my backbone and I love how they never stopped supporting me, even when things got complicated. And a special thanks to my dad for always looking out for me and providing me the space to explore and find my path,” Abinayashree added.

The young student was chosen among 100 finalists by five distinguished juries for showcasing problem-solving skills through creativity and critical thinking, communicating effectively, and creating impactful content while having a strong desire and actions taken to achieve her goal in life. Juries include Malaysian socio-political activist and writer, Datin Paduka Marina Mahathir; humanitarian, sustainability, and planetary health advocate, Tan Sri Jamilah Mahmood; Malaysian celebrity chef and entrepreneur, Chef Wan; Chief Human Resource Officer at Maxis, Natalia Navin and Head of Creator Partnership of Meta Malaysia & Pakistan, Hassan Salahuddin.
Related:  Malaysian Gen Z Team Wins The “Best Entrepreneurship Education Project” in SingaporeDatin Paduka Marina Binti Mahathir, who presented the award during the Grand Finale said, Abinayashree is the youngest participant in the MonStar Awards this year. She and her team collaborated with a Fortune 500 company to provide 3,600 Malaysian students access to their online platforms. Also, she and her team recently organized the world’s largest student-led conference, with over 22,000 participants and ten speakers. She’s very proud of her journey to figure out her passion and hopefully make a difference in the world.

Her essay and videos have inspired, influenced, and innovated. Click HERE to Read Abinayashree’s inspiring story.
Also, Alicia Anne Patrick is another Malaysian Indian who won the Top 10 talent title for the MonStar Awards 2022.
Congratulations on the win Abinayashree Meyappan and to all the Top 10 young talent winners.
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Filed Under 'Top 10 Young Talent'Abinayashree MeyappanAscendanceB40 communityChef WanDatin Paduka Marina Binti MahathirMonStar Awards 2022Natalia NavinTan Sri Jamilah Mahmood


Meet Thiban; Malaysian Music Composer Sways His Way To Raj Narain Ji Visual Media Award 2021

It’s amazing to witness our beloved country make international headlines for any distinguished achievement. And, in the music industry, we’ve been privileged to have a consistent stream of excellent indigenous artistes that have made us proud, both here and abroad, throughout the years.
Without a doubt the charismatic composer of our local music industry, Thiban has certainly come a long way since his singer/songwriter days in the music industry.

It’s a huge milestone for our very own Malaysian crooner and composer as his song aptly titled “Ponnin Chingam” won the prestigious Raj Narain Ji Visual Media Award 2021. Known as a sound engineer and owner of the reputed Music Label Acoustical Recordz Malaysia, it’s a promising sign of things to come from the local Tamil music industry featuring Thiban’s work.
Its vocalist Mathangi Ajithkumar won the “Best Female Singer” category award which was held in Trivandrum, Kerala, India on 21st November 2021. Her beautiful voice is laden with emotion; it emotes brilliantly to the lyrics of the tune. The lyrics to this song was penned by Unnikrishnan Meetna, Ankita and Sri. Hrishikesh, the creative picturisation of this song has been penned beautifully.
Those who didn’t get a chance to watch the music video, blow your minds here!

Kudos to the entire crew members who have shed their blood, sweat and tears for this brilliantly executed and crafted music video.
Singer: Mathangi Ajith Kumar (Kerala)
Swaram: Reva (Chennai)
Music Composed & Arranged: Thiban Malaysia.
Lyrics: Unnikrishnan Meetna  (Kerala)
Bassist: Aalaap Raju  (Chennai)
Tabla: Karthik Vamsi  (Chennai)
Flutist: Ashish Venkateshwaran  (Chennai)
Related:  Jyotika to Return to Bollywood After 25 Years?Studio: RM Music Studios (Chennai)
Recording Engineer: M. Keerthivasan (Chennai)
Mixed & Mastered by Kartik Purushothaman (Malaysia)
Cast : Ankitha S Nair & Jay
Direction : Hrishikesh Ottuvazhical
Dop & Editing : Jibin Jacob
Project Coordinator: Unni Mannur (Kerala)
Executive Producer: Ajith Kumar Maruthur (Kerala)
Label: Acoustical Recordz
Produced by: Sumitha Ranindren
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Filed Under "Best Female Singer"AnkitaMalaysian Music ComposerMathangi AjithkumarMusic Label Acoustical RecordzRaj Narain Ji Visual Media Award 2021SriThibanUnnikrishnan Meetna


A Viral Video Shows Malaysian Students Trapped In Ukraine Crying For Help. Is This True?

Recently, a 45 sec- short video showing four women speaking in Tamil who were seen crying and pledging for help has gone viral on social media.
The footage taken by this group of students trapped in Ukraine claimed that their area had been sealed off and all they could hear was the sound of bombardment.
One of the female students in the video said 5,000 students were trapped in their houses across Ukraine as a result of the Russian army bombing, and some were even left without food and water.
Image credit: Whatsapp World News and Classic movies (yt)
Responding to the viral clip by the group of students trapped in Ukraine that was circulated online, the official Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has since verified the authenticity of the clip.
“Based on inquiries and verification efforts undertaken thus far, the video does not belongs to a group of Malaysian students as alleged.” The Foreign Ministry stated in the official statement.
Wisma Putra has issued a statement on their official Twitter page about this hot issue along with the current situation of Malaysian students in the Russian Federation.

Press Release: Situation of Malaysian students in the Russian Federation and allegation about Malaysian students trapped in Ukraine@saifuddinabd @KamarudinJaffar @IkramShahrul @amran_zin @CheongLL_WP @MYEmbMoscow @KemPendidikan @JPenerangan @bernamadotcom pic.twitter.com/g6ujetvoDy
— Wisma Putra (@MalaysiaMFA) March 6, 2022

The Ministry also urged any Malaysians still remaining in Ukraine and requiring consular assistance to contact its embassy in Warsaw, Poland, via its email mwwarsaw@kln.gov.my and hotlines at +48 22375 9930 and +48 22617 4413 and its 24-hour line at +48 66062 7360.
The Ministry may also be contacted for the purpose of consular assistance via bkrm@kln.gov.my, dutyofficer@kln.gov.my or at +603 8887 4676 during office hours and at +603 8887 4570 after office hours.
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Filed Under Malaysian Ministry of Foreign AffairsRussianThe Malaysian Foreign MinistryUkraineviral videoWisma Putra


4 Reasons You Can’t Miss Mojo’s Retro Rahman Concert This Saturday

Calling all AR Rahman fans – and that probably means every single person who is reading this. Thanks to Mojo Projects, there’s going to be an epic concert at the Hotel Istana Kuala Lumpur this Saturday, on the 7th of July – and we’re going to tell you why you just can’t miss it!

Because AR Rahman, duh.

A legend. Music maestro. A virtuoso. There’s honestly not enough adjectives in this world to capture AR Rahman’s talent. The Oscar-winning musician has gifted us with countless evergreen hits, dating all the way back to our childhood, up until the present moment.
We can’t even curate a playlist without including at least 25 songs from AR Rahman. From classics like Bombay, Roja, Dil Se, to Jeans, Alaipaayuthey, Taal, Ghajini, including Superstar hit movies like Muthu, Padaiyappa, Shivaji – AR Rahman is everywhere, conquering Kollywood, Bollywood, and even Hollywood!
2. The star-studded line-up
What’s better than a night full of AR Rahman’s compositions being powered by the vocals of our favourite A-list stars? We have veteran singer Unnikrishnan, who gave us some beautiful numbers like Poovukkul (Jeans), Kaatrae En Vaasal (Rhythm), Ennavale (Kadalan), and many more.

He will be flanked by another seasoned crooner, none other than Unni Menon. Unni Menon, together with AR Rahman, blessed us with songs like Nathiye Nathiye Nathiye (Rhythm), Dhandiya (Kadhalar Thinam), Poongatrile (Uyire) – among others.

To add icing to the cake, we also have Harini joining the party. Harini sang Varayo Thozhi (Jeans), alongside Sonu Nigam, Shahul Hameed, Harini, Sangeetha. She’s also worked with AR Rahman on other movies like Alaipayuthey, Padaiyappa, Kadhal Virus, Mudhalvan, and more.
Related:  Hearts of Harris 4.0: An Electrifying Concert in KL with a record of 4 sell out shows !
The trio will be joined by renowned Indian pianist – Anil Srinivasan and the Fort Cochin band. And guess who will be jamming with Anil Srinivasan as an opening act to the epic night? Our very own Aanantha from THR Raaga!
3. Haripriya – an AR Rahman protege

We love Haripriya’s story. She was just a young girl, competing in Super Singer Junior 4. She didn’t win the show – she finished third – but she was spotted by AR Rahman who was impressed with her singing and took her under his wings. Now she’s a star touring the world. We can’t wait to watch her performing AR Rahman’s hit songs right here in Kuala Lumpur!
4. You will probably know every single song… and all the words to it
We can all agree that if we were to list all of AR Rahman’s hit songs, this list will go on forever. The best part about AR Rahman songs are that they are so memorable, and you probably don’t even realise that half your head is just full of his hits. Think Sonia Sonia, Thilana Thilana, Thayya Thayya, and pretty much every song you grew up listening to – this man was probably responsible for it!

So don’t forget to get your tickets TODAY for Retro Rahman: A Tribute – featuring Unnikrishnan, Unni Menon, Harini, Haripriya, along with Anil Srinivasan and the Fort Cochin band and Aanantha THR!
Thank you Mojo Projects :) See you all on Saturday!
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Filed Under AR RahmanHariniHaripriyaUnni MenonUnnikrishnan


Sugu Pavithra Shift To New Home

M Sugu and S Pavithra have moved to a new home. Housewife Pavithra, one half of the YouTube sensation duo recently uploaded videos of her and her relatives tidying up the new home, and getting a few furnishings.
https://youtu.be/j4832YZV6pM
https://youtu.be/n0qyVdFqCmg
According to Pavithra, their new house is located in Pekan Sungai Siput Perak. In addition, the housewife spilled that the house that the family used to live in before was owned by the estate that the husband was working for. Sugu has recently quit his job in order to shift his focus on producing more YouTube videos.
It wasn’t specifically mentioned whether the new house was rented or bought by the couple. Fans of the duo have left congratulatory messages on their outstanding achievement of finally attaining a more comfortable residence for their growing family.
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Filed Under movednew houseSugu PavitraYouTube fame


Fake Sultan Endorses Radha Ravi’s Dubious Datukship

The Sultan of a fictitious state has come out with a video endorsing veteran actor Radha Ravi’s Datukship.
What was initially thought to be a parody video, the ‘Sultan’, Noor Jan Tuah, claims he is the leader of the the non-existent Malaysian state, Melaka Darul Islam.
In 2014, Noor Jan Tuah was arrested for impersonating royalty. Earlier this year, he was found not guilty of four charges of cheating and posing as the Sultan of Melaka as the prosecution failed to prove a prima facie case against him.
This explains Noor Jan Tuah’s  repeated disclaimer in the video that he is the Sultan of Melaka Darul Islam, and not Melaka Bandaraya Bersejarah.

Dressed in the yellow garb reserved for national royalty, Noor Jan Tuah is flanked by two royal bodyguards in ceremonial attire, and appears to be seated on a plush yellow throne. The background is dripping in yellow cloth, the official colour of Malaysian royalty.
The video was released on a Facebook page of a news portal, MyITimes. A person who introduced herself as Anne Marie Anthony starts off by telling the viewers that Radha Ravi was awarded the Datukship on the 14th of November 2012. She says that this was done at a palace, but does not reveal which palace the event took place in. The video then cuts to the fake Sultan, Noor Jan Tuah, speaking to a picture of Radha Ravi in Tamil before saying that he has awarded the actor with a Datukship.

The video posted was posted on the 5th of December. Many netizens have tagged Polis DiRaja Malaysia, the Malaysian Police, to take action on the bogus Sultan and the actor who has been misusing the title Datuk.

Basically, a fake Sultan of a fake state has come up with a statement saying he has awarded Radha Ravi with the title Datuk. The shoddy editing and pathetic set the video was filmed on makes the entire issue a laughing stock, and the supporters of Radha Ravi’s Datukship the most gullible Malaysians around.

Radha Ravi’s Datukship came into question when singer Chinmayi took to social media to question the veracity of his title. There is no official record of the actor having received the title, with confirmation from the Special Assistant to the Chief Minister of Melaka.
Radha Ravi has been quiet throughout, a rare sight for the actor who has been vocal about all the allegations thrown at him. According to his manager, the actor is currently out of town.
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Filed Under DatukRadha Ravi


Television Personality, E Samson Passes Away at 77

The icon of many in the 1970s has left many devastated.
Samson Irudayam, fondly known as E Samson, passed away at the age of 77 on April 17 due to lung cancer at Selayang Hospital. As a newsreader on radio and television, his baritone voice was warm and smooth, and he left a lasting impact on Malaysians from the 1970s to the 1980s.
Pathinathan, his brother stated that Samson has brought along a sense of comfort, and love in whatever he did, or wherever he went. “He was widely loved as a family man, radio and television personality, church leader, voice actor, drama star, singer, dancer and writer,” the brother continues.
IMAGE CREDIT: FMT
Hailing from Kuala Selangor, Samson joined Radio Television Malaysia (RTM) in 1968 as a newsreader, joining other popular newscasters like Bosco D’Cruz, Leslie Dawson, John Machado, Yahya Long Chik, George Abraham, Ronnie Atkinson, Alan Zachariah, Constance Haslam and Faridah Merican.
Later, he and D’Cruz along with Paul de Souza established themselves as mainstay at the RM Playhouse on Sunday afternoons, educating listeners on how to comprehend and speak excellent English through local plays. These presenters subsequently gained popularity in the cultural life of the nation, and promoted social cohesion
Samson founded Blue Heavens to perform plays, songs and dances, primarily at the railway union hall, in order to raise money for charities and churches.
IMAGE CREDIT: FMT
Multifaceted Icon
Samson had wrote and published two books; The Blue Heavens, about the drama group and life in Sentul during the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s, and, The Cardinal, about his ties with the late Anthony Soter Fernandez, Malaysia’s first Roman Catholic cardinal.
Related:  Tan Sri Gnanalingam ,The Founder And Chairman Of Westports Holdings, Passes Away At Age Of 78When the Cahayasuara Communications Centre (CCC) of the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur was founded in 1967, he was one of its original employees. Samson was often asked to do voiceover work for archdiocesan and parish-related video productions. He was also in high demand as a master of ceremonies for religious occasions.
Samson had published two books: The Cardinal, concerning his relationships with the late Anthony Soter Fernandez, Malaysia’s first Roman Catholic cardinal, and The Blue Heavens, about the theatrical group and life in Sentul throughout the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s.
IMAGE CREDIT: FMT
When the Cahayasuara Communications Centre (CCC) of the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur was founded in 1967, he was one of its original employees. Samson was often asked to do voiceover work for archdiocesan and parish-related video productions. He was also in high demand as a master of ceremonies for religious occasions.
Samson was appointed CCC’s director in September 1984, making him the first layperson to oversee a ministry in the archdiocese.

Rest in peace Sir!

Source: [1]
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Filed Under E SamsonMalaysian PresenterPathinathanRTMSamson Irudayam


Ganesh Venkatram And Nisha Uploaded A Sweet Photo With Their Newborn Daughter

Ganesh Venkatram, who became a father a few months ago, took to his social networking page to reveal the picture of his daughter Samaira.
He shared a picture of him and his wife, television actress Nisha and posted,” All of Gods Grace in one tiny Face ?Hi friends, Say hello to our little Princess SAMAIRA ❤❤❤A big thanks to Amritha for the awesome click and most importantly for making it such a fun experience for all of us ??? @mommyshotsbyamrita #firstbabyshoot #SamairaGanesh #4months @nishaganeshvenkatram.”

All of Gods Grace in one tiny Face 👼Hi friends, Say hello to our little Princess SAMAIRA ❤❤❤
A big tnx to Amritha fr d awsm click & most importantly fr making it such a fun experience for us 🤗
📷 @mommyshotsbyamrita#firstbabyshoot#SamairaGanesh#4months@Nishaganesh28 pic.twitter.com/9QbwwSh0Ro
— Ganesh Venkatram (@talk2ganesh) November 9, 2019

On the film front, the actor is working in Vanangamudi, which stars Arvind Swamy, Simran and Ritika Singh as part of the star cast. He is also teaming up with Yugi Sethu for a film. Ganesh Venkatram And Nisha got hitched back in 2015.
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook or Telegram for more updates and breaking news. Related:  The Ripple Effect 4.0 : Charity Movie Screening for Hospice Malaysia
Filed Under baby girlganesh venkatramnishaTamil


Vaikasi Visakam: Significance And Rituals Of This Tamil Festival Dedicated to Lord Muruga

Vaikasi Visakam is celebrated on the birth anniversary of Lord Murugan, who is regarded as the warrior god. Lord Kartikeya, son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, is worshipped as Lord Murugan in Tamil Nadu and other southern states.

Lord Murugan is also considered to be the chief deity of the ancient Tamils Other names for him include Swaminatha, Dandayudhapani, Saravana and Kumaran
When is Vaikasi Visakam Celebrated?
Vaikasi Visakam is celebrated when the Vishakha Nakshatra coincides with the full moon or Purnima Tithi in the Tamil month of Vaikasi. As per the Tamil calendar, Vaikashi is the second month of the year, which corresponds to May-June on the Gregorian calendar.

Significance of Vaikasi Visakam
According to traditions, Lord Murugan was created from a raging flame that even the gods and goddesses could not withstand inside of Lord Shiva’s third eye.
Six sparks emerged from the enormous flame in the shape of fairies and fell to the Ganga river. The six of them were referred to as Krittikas collectively. Matha Parvati combined the six entities, giving birth to Lord Kartikeya or Murugan with six faces and twelve arms.

Lord Murugan’s six faces represent his six tatpurushas, aghorams, sadyojatams, vamadevans, eesanams, and adhomukams.
Lord Murugan has the ability to look simultaneously in all directions, including swarga (heaven), patala (hell), east, west, north, and south.
He is also revered as the leader of the gods’ army or the God the warrior. Tarakasur, a demon who had the blessing that only Shiva’s son could defeat him, was killed by him.In addition to Tarakasur, Lord Murugan, also known as Kartikeya, also vanquished the demons Soorapadman and Simhamukha.

Therefore, Vaikasi Visakam is a day that commemorates the triumph of good over evil. On this day, devotees organise processions and bring milk to Lord Subramanya temples to perform milk “abhishekam,” which involves showering the god with water or other holy prayer items.

In addition, the devotees perform havans (fire rituals) at the temples and carry the kavadi (offerings to Lord Murugan) there. Also, a grand arti (ritual) of Lord Murugan is performed on this day.
HAPPY VAIKASI VISAKAM!
Source: 1
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Filed Under KavadiLord MuruganLord ParvathiLord SiivaPalkudamVaikasi Visakam


Simbhu’s New Film With Venkat Prabhu Will Be Titled ‘Athiradi’

Simbhu fans – we got some athiradi news for you!
We just got news Simbhu’s latest movie with Venkat Prabhu will be titled Athiradi.
Apart from that, the latest talk is that popular cinematographer in indian cinema, PC Sriram will be handling the cinematography for the movie. Music will be handled by the one only Oscar-winning musician AR Rahman.
Multiple online sources also say that Simbu’s character in the film will either be a playboy (yes, we can hear those judging voices), or it could be something similar to what Ajith played in Mankatha.

While we’re hoping that the movie will not be a sequel to Mankatha, we can also presume from the title that this not gonna be a typical Venkat Prabhu movie – like his previous ones.
On another note, people are still wondering when he’ll be releasing his new flick, Party.
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook or Telegram for more updates and breaking news. Related:  Malaysian Indian actress Sangeeta Krishnasamy attends the Cannes International Film Festival in France.
Filed Under SimbhuVenkat Prabhu


3 Things I Will Not Do This Deepavali

I always say this to my close friends; once it crosses October, time flies even more faster because;

’Tis the season to be happy’

Simply meaning that; there are so MANY family or cultural festivities and celebrations that would be lined up across the three months. Phone calls would begin and end with wishes from everyone regardless of their background. It’s a fun thing. Seeing our friends from other backgrounds enjoying the palagaram made from scratch is definitely one of my favourite expressions to see in the past Deepavali open houses. Neighbours and friends come over and they for sure as hell have had one too many thosai’s and chicken curry but let’s be real, I always catch myself wanting more! 😂
Credits: NatGeoKids
I  have had 24 Deepavalis’ in my entire life and I cannot wait for the next one. Sure some of these Deepavalis’, I spent my time probably drinking milk, puking all over my mom and crying. It is truly a plethora of emotions; and knowing this only makes me want to welcome more Deepavalis’’ in my life.
HOWEVER,
Celebrating ANY festive holiday can be quite scary for the introverts. Yet; if done right, we truly enjoy the fun and joy that comes from it. Many mental health advocates say that it is very normal for us to feel overwhelmed and stressed during festival season. One of the reasons why this happens is because we want it to be “perfect”.
Hey, we are all guilty of this.
So I made these 3 promises to myself for this Deepavali because I know it is time for a shift in our mindset and how we can be more sensitive to others during this beautiful season ahead of us.
I will not participate in rituals that don’t serve me
An illustration of the deepavali morning oil bath credits: indiansinkuwait.com
Every family has their own traditions and customs. As we grow in life, I believe that we should design our lives in a way that we can practise what has logic and also allow space for new customs and rituals. I am a huge believer in knowing your ‘why’ before doing anything. So a ritual I have ditched over the years is to oil my head in the morning. This simply does not appeal to me! It is as simple as that!

You do not need a reason to stop what you don’t like doing!

The biggest emotion I see on any festive day is happiness. Simply basking in the joy of having people around us to share good food and laughter with. So ditching a ritual isn’t going to make your Deepavali less significant. It is what you make of it.
On that note, I welcomed a new ritual for myself. I promised that i would always have at least one meal with a close one and speak about all things Deepavali; the culture, the food, the story of why we celebrate it in the first place.
I will not hold myself back with food
A variety of Pan Indian snacks credits: Femina.in
Oh where should I begin. Food is a huge part of Deepavali. Like duh! Everyone has a different scales as to how big their open house is going to be but all i can say is this; every Deepavali open house i have been to has these two things in common

 The endless variety of cookies
 A dedicated angel who makes fresh hot thosai

It is a safe bet that the MOST VALUABLE PLAYER would be the person who makes fresh thosai and in my house that person is no other than my mother. The dedication these people have to serve food is next level. Every house I go to, most of the time, I see an Indian woman in her saree and she isn’t afraid of the heat the kitchen is gonna give her. Nothing will stop her from making the crunchiest thosai, topped with a good ghee and of course, all hail goes to the chicken curry that was made when the rest of us were asleep.
Related:  Selangor Grants Financial Aid To Tamil University StudentsThosai and chicken curry credits: Sinamon Tales
Regardless of how poetic I can try make this sound, it does not take away the fact that most of us with disordered eating will not be able to appreciate this. We struggle with our thoughts and this affects us a lot more than what people can see. This Deepavali, I urge everyone one of us to be a little more sensitive to one another. Please do not comment on a person’s food intake. It is none of our concern. We are adult enough to understand our own individual hunger cue. Of course, wastage isn’t cool
Slow down, enjoy the food and remember, more than the food, it is the company you are with that is the most important distinction for yourself.
I will not enable TOXIC gossip
Have a reset for our Deepavali etiquette credits: Happy Fresh MY
Okay hear me out cause this one is super IMPORTANT. We all engage in gossip to different levels and I understand that no one is perfect. Instead of shaming these thoughts, embracing them is what alchemises these thoughts into something bigger.
I have noticed a common pattern in communication. The condescending tone will begin with a sense of pity person A will have for person B. Usually it is about a person’s physical appearance and financial status; and many other irrelevant distinctions one can make of another human being. At some point of my life, it made so much sense why I spoke that way.

What we project on people is merely a reflection of our thoughts about ourselves

Imagine this, you are at an open house, and there is music in the background, a jam tart on your plate accompanied with the other beautiful snacks, someone beside you starts talking about current issues. That is the best bet you have because talking about current issues is better for any of us than to take part in a bitch fest of how her neck looks empty and the colour of her outfit doesn’t MATCH her skin colour.
The best thing you can do is to be yourself and if it gets too much, the choice is always up to you to get up and leave. Do not be in a company that you are not comfortable with. Deepavali or not.
These promises I made for myself are sacred as they have altered how I function. I would hope that as much as your practise caution when you light up the fire cracker, hold that same space for your inner light. Because you have to

Let the LIGHT in your heart reflect in your soul

 Have a safe and joyous Deepavali. Hold your loved ones closer and give thanks to all that comes with life.
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Filed Under CultureDeepavalidisordered eatingemotional healthMalaysiamental health


Vijay TV Chitra’s Husband Hemnath Admits Dispute Happened Before Alleged Suicide

Chennai city police arrested K Chitra’s husband Hemnath for abetting her alleged suicide. Hemanth was presented to the magistrate court and is currently imprisoned at the Puzhal Central Prison.
The TV series actress and video jockey had allegedly taken her own life at a hotel room in Nazarethpet in the wee hours of the morning on 9th December.

During the inquiry, Hemnath admitted that a quarrel occurred between him and Chitra. The disputation ensued as Hemnath didn’t favour Chitra acting in romantic scenes with her co-actors. He had asked her repeatedly about the scenes she had done before the argument heightened. Chitra who took it badly locked herself inside the room and had purportedly ended her life.
Besides that, several media sources have also mentioned that Hemnath went over to the drama set of Pandiyan Shops and caused a huge scene with screaming rampages towards Chitra. When the press visited Chitra’s mother and probed about her daughter’s death, she said that there could be no justification for her to take the drastic decision and her husband was responsible for her death.

After the couple’s engagement in August, they both registered their union and planned to get married in a traditional wedding in February the following year.
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook or Telegram for more updates and breaking news. Related:  KPY And KAITHI Fame Actor Dheena Gets Married
Filed Under ArgumentsArrestedChitraHemnathsuicideVijay TV


Jamunarani Uses Yoga To Help Autistic Children Lead A Normal Life

The relaxation techniques of Yoga has huge benefits on one’s health and overall being. It’s a form of therapy that has been practised for centuries and praised for its many benefits.
Even parents are encouraging their children to begin this healthy practise at a young age, so that it becomes a habit for them to continue practising this physical, mental, and spiritual activity in the future.
Some people cultivate this form of meditation very seriously because it is said that the yogic way of life can help people realise their higher purpose in life.
On that note, there is a yoga instructor and practitioner who not only teaches this lovely art form to adults and children, but also to autistic children and teenagers.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jamuna Rani (@jamunarani.aenpalagan)

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain, as many people are aware. Some ASD sufferers have a known difference, such as a genetic condition. Other causes have yet to be discovered.
But, whatever the reason is, the people who have been diagnosed with the disorder are the ones who are most likely to be affected.
For them, living a normal life appears to be impossible. Jamunarani Aenpalagan, a yoga instructor, recognises the complexities of people with autism and is working to change that by teaching them yoga. She is a certified yoga instructor from the Sakthi School of Yoga, where she received her training from Master SK Durai, a well-known yogi in Malaysia.
Since 2016, she has been a yoga instructor, with a focus on autistic children since 2019.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jamuna Rani (@jamunarani.aenpalagan)

Rashwin, a significant student whom she teaches, is autistic as well. Teaching him yoga has resulted in numerous changes. Rashwin’s mother, Krishna Veni, claims that yoga has helped him strengthen his muscles, improve his body balance, and increase his awareness of his body.
Rashwin is only four years old, but he is already able to balance his body and respond to eye contact. Things like this may appear simple to a typical child, but not to a child with autism.
Change, according to Jamunarani, takes a long time. Change is often difficult for these children to accept. As a result, it would be difficult for the instructor to determine each child’s pace and bring out the best in them.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jamuna Rani (@jamunarani.aenpalagan)

Autistic children must understand that they are perfect individuals, who are accepted by society. It is a big hurdle, but it is one that can be overcome with patience and self belief.
Yoga offers a wide range of structured and focused activities that are tailored to the needs of autistic children. These activities promote social communication, interaction, and motor skill development.
Jamunarani also believes that children with autism are capable of living normal lives. They require the community’s love and support and negative perceptions of special children should be avoided by society.
Source: Sastera Kavyan
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Filed Under Sakthi School of Yogayoga


5 Things I Loved & Hated About ‘Thaana Serndha Kootam’

The highly anticipated Ponggal flick, Thaana Serndha Kootam, has hit cinemas nationwide.
Starring Suriya, Keerty Suresh, Karthik, Ramya Krishnan, Senthil, the movie is enjoying overwhelming success at the box office, and raking in a bunch of positive reviews. I thoroughly enjoyed Vignesh ShivN’s new brainchild, I can’t remember the last time I laughed so hard in the cinema. I also squealed with excitement when I saw familiar faces like Senthil and Karthik on screen, because they took me right back to my childhood! *so much feels*
The movie was well-written, full of surprising twists, and had its memorable moments. Here are 5 things that I liked and didn’t quite like about the movie:

‘Sodakku’, the super-cekap opening number

Source: Troll Haters
One of the things that give Tamil movies the ‘oomph’ factor is the upbeat opening number that is saturated with inspiring words. The opening song also sort of tells us about the hero’s persona, his beliefs and values, and pretty much what the movies is going to be about.
At the start of Thaana Serndha Kootam, we see three different but similar scenarios about how tough it is to get a job in India when you’re not from a rich family. Despite having the right papers and qualifications, all three candidates did not land the job – simply because they had no money to bribe their superiors.
In one of the scenes, we see Suriya’s character, Iniyan, accompany his friend to a job interview at a police station. The police officer goes on to ramble about how the selection process is strict and tight and blah blah blah – but okay lah can be ‘adjusted’ with a certain amount of money. Iniyan refused to give in to the officer’s demands, instead he stood up and slapped him on the face.

I don’t think I’m the only one who watched TSK mainly for Sodakku song than Surya.
— nalinan ॐ (@CallMeNalinan) January 14, 2018

The way ‘Sodakku’ is presented right after that scene gave me goosebumps. Anthony Daasan’s high powered and vibrant vocals fit the song perfectly (although I thought it didn’t quite suit Suriya). Everything about the song was perfect. The lyrics, penned by Mani Amuthavan and Vignesh ShivN, boldly voiced India’s disapproval and annoyance towards corruption. I felt everything that the lyrics wanted me to feel. Choreography was on point, and despite being 42 years old (I know right), Suriya nailed every bit of the high-tempo dance.
Oh, and to the guy who sat next to me in the cinema, sorry the seats kept moving because I honestly did not know how to stop myself from dancing to this song.
2. Ramya Krishnan’s ‘Jhansi Rani’ had me like dayummm son

I’m of those people who are tired of the way women are represented in Tamil cinema. I absolutely hate it when girls are just there for eye-candy, cuci-mata purposes with no real character. “Go get the bad guy”, “my father wants me to marry someone else please come rescue me.” I CANNOT.
So imagine how hard I squealed when I saw Ramya Krishnan’s badass introduction in the movie. When Jhansi Rani, a woman CBI officer, turned to Iniyan and said “Let’s do this raid – I fear no one”, I was like HELL YES!

I completely understand that Tamil movies revolve around heroes and their punchlines, but that doesn’t mean that women cannot play a significant role in the movies. And this scene was the perfect example. With the undaunted and assertive Iniyan by her side, Jhansi Rani led the team of CBI officers to a minister’s house to carry out the raid. Throughout the entire scene, she was bold, she was brazen,  authoritative – and proved that she was not a woman you want to mess with. We all live to see Ramya Krishnan like this, don’t we?
Remember how she pulled off Neelambari in Padaiyappa? Remember how strong and commanding she was in Baahubali? Yeah she’s back!!!
Except that no, not really…
3. Jhansi Rani only lasted like 20 minutes

Turns out Jhansi Rani is actually Azhagu Meena from a small village. She’s a mother of many daughters who had to find ways to feed her family after her husband fell ill and became bed-ridden. In order to make ends meet, she joined Iniyan’s team of con-men who posed as CBI officers to conduct raids and seize valuables. Yeah, kind of like Robin Hood style.
Related:  Vetrimaaran Came Up With "Vaadivaasal" Update And Something Exciting Is BrewingAlthough I loved the twist in the movie, I would have much preferred to see Ramya Krishnan in a more domineering role. Apart from her introduction scene, there were no other instances where we saw her as a tough, no-nonsense leader. She became more timid, constantly turning to Iniyan to tell him she was paranoid about getting caught, and he had to assure her that everything was going to be fine.
Having said that, Ramya Krishnan still did an amazing job at pulling off a dual, layered role with brilliant acting.
4. When Iniyan fell in love with Madhu because she was “gutsy and intelligent”
Can we get a standing ovation for this scene please?

If I had to pick one thing that I absolutely loved about this movie, it is the way Vignesh ShivN handled female characters in the movie. Most people might not be happy about the lack of romantic scenes in the movie – but I absolutely loved it. I love that Vignesh ShivN did not unnecessarily disrupt the plot and digress for the sake of romantic scenes, which is the case in most tamil movies. When Iniyan realised that he had feelings for Keerty Suresh’s Madhu (who was one of the con artist in his fake CBI team), he confessed that his feelings for her brewed because she was brave and intelligent in her own way. The scene only lasted 30 seconds, but it was refreshing.
None of that close-up shots on the heroine’s lips or neck, or her dhupatta flying slow-mo in the wind and getting caught in his face. None of that “I love her so I’m going to start following her everywhere she goes” bullshit.

In fact, when Madhu wanted to confess her feelings for Iniyan, she merely confronted him about it. “Yes or no? Do you want to do this or not?” When Iniyan said no, given the circumstances, all the said was, “Oh okay that’s fine,” and both of them carried on with their lives.
Even though her role wasn’t as prominent as Suriya’s or Ramya Krishnan’s, Keerty Suresh did a great job as Suriya’s love interest.
5. After all that genius twists, the ending was “Meh”

Thaana Serndha Kootam is essentially a movie about heists. Apart from the lack of action scenes, the plot reminded me of movies like Dhoom, Ocean’s 11, and even Fast Furious 5. The movie was full of ingenious twists and surprises, constantly surprising you along the way. While nearing the end of the movie, Iniyan gets caught (eventually) and is surrounded by at least a hundred policemen, all aiming their rifles at him. While I hoped that he’d escape in some sly and cunning way, Vignesh ShivN disappoints. Two intimidating superior officers with a hundred cops in back-up listened patiently as the highly wanted criminal Iniyan tried to explain his actions to them. Turns out, Iniyan had also planted his own men in the police squad, which was supposed to explain why no one shot him.
This is a complete waste to the build up of Karthik’s character, Kurinji Vendan. Throughout the movie, he was portrayed as a badass, merciless police officer who will shoot you on sight, and it seemed very likely that he was going to shoot Iniyan for messing with the police and CBI department – but he didn’t.
In the end, Iniyan just walks away from the scene, unscathed, because his speech about corruption toned down the incredibly intimidating and badass Kurinji Vendan, who for some baffling reason did not pull the trigger on the man he spent so much time hunting down. It’s either you shoot him, or at least, apprehend him.
Source: Hindustan Times
Overall, the movie was extremely entertaining. The plot is cleverly devised, the jokes are witty and not overly done. The dialogues are well written, and music – left in the good hands of the genius that is Anirudh – is excellent and memorable.
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Filed Under Keerty SureshSuriyaThaana Serndha Kootam


16th BOH Cameronian Arts Awards: Nominees Announcement

The Cammies is back and bigger than ever!

The 16th BOH Cameronian Arts Awards (BCAA) is happening on 28 April 2019 and the list of nominees have been announced. The prestigious annual award that recognises arts practitioners in Malaysia is proudly presented by Kakiseni and BOH Plantations.
22 judges attended 75 shows throughout 2018 and nominated the best shows for the ‘Best Of Awards’ while performing artists, including performers and technical crew, are recognised through the ‘Category Awards’. The theme for this year’s Cammies is Mulanya Di Sini as it celebrates new beginnings and 90 Years of Ummph with BOH tea.
As tradition would have it, the Collector’s Edition canister of the Cameronian Gold Blend tea was released by BOH to commemorate this year’s awards. To mark the 16th Awards, an Art Deco and songket inspired design that captures the nostalgia and elegance of the 1920s, a time when modern performing arts began taking root in Malaya, was created.
The Collector’s Edition canister of the Cameronian Gold Blend tea
The BOH Cameronian Arts Awards is proudly endorsed by The National Department for Culture and Arts (JKKN) under the Ministry of Tourism and Culture Malaysia, and supported by BOH Plantations, PwC Malaysia, A Cut Above, M.A.C Cosmetics and Capri Communications.
Here are the list of nominees for the 16th BOH Cameronian Arts Awards:
MUSICAL THEATRE
BEST MUSICAL DIRECTION

Juan Montoya from Madama Butterfly
Duan Sharafuddin from OlaBola The Musical
Dominic Lucien Luk from The Edge

Madama Butterfly
BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ENSEMBLE

The cast of OlaBola The Musical from OlaBola The Musical
Kuala Lumpur City Opera Chorus from Madama Butterfly
Nurfazira & Asmidar Ahmad from Mek Mulung Hikayat Puteri 12 Beradik

OlaBola The Musical
BEST DIRECTION

Christopher Ling from The Edge
Tiara Jacquelina from OlaBola The Musical

BEST PERFORMER IN A LEADING ROLE

Brian Chan from OlaBola The Musical
Cecilia Yap from Madama Butterfly
Iedil Putra from OlaBola The Musical
Michael Chen from The Edge

The Edge
BEST PERFORMER IN A SUPPORTING ROLE

Ashley Chan from Company
Junji Delfino from Company
Kai Chalmers from The Edge
Nikki Palikat from Adam! The Musical

BEST SET DESIGN

Christopher Ling from The Edge
Lukman/Azan from Mona Ke Daerah M
Raja Malek from OlaBola The Musical

BEST COSTUME DESIGN, STYLING & MAKE-UP

Dominique Devorsine from Madama Butterfly
Khairul Anuar Zainudin / Muhammad Nur Ilmi b. Nur Azman / Mohd Hairil Anuar b. Bari from Mek Mulung Hikayat Puteri 12 Beradik
Zaharah Nakibullah from OlaBola The Musical

Mek Mulung Hikayat Puteri 12 Beradik
BEST SOUND DESIGN

Duan Sharafuddin / Mohd Najib from OlaBola The Musical
JJ Tan from Madama Butterfly
Kamarul Baisah b. Hussin from Mek Mulung Hikayat Puteri 12 Beradik

BEST LIGHTING DESIGN

Amelia Tan from Madama Butterfly
Ee Chee Wei from OIaBola The Musical

DANCE
BEST FEATURED PERFORMER

Imran Syafiq Mohd Affandi  from The iProject: Between Self And Others
Lee Ren Xin from The Dead Bird
Raymond Liew Jin Pin from Continue I: Tongue

The iProject: Between Self And Others
BEST GROUP PERFORMANCE

Ask Dance Company (adc)  from The iProject: Between Self And Others
Kwang Tung Dance Company / Orang Orang Drum Theatre / Gideon Alu8khan Chen from Bisikan Monsoon

BEST CHOREOGRAPHER IN A FULL LENGTH WORK

Chang Wei Loy / Amy Len & Dancers from Bisikan Monsoon
Mohamed Naim Syahrazad Bin Mohd Zin / Mohd Fauzi Bin Amirudin from The iPROJECT: Between Self And Others
Raymond Liew Jin Pin / Jascha Viehstadt (Co-Choreographed/Dramaturg) from Continue I : Tongue
Yeow Lai Chee (Chief Choreographer) / Lee Ren Xing (Co-Choreographer For Her Solo) / Lee Choy Wan (Co-Choreographer For Her Solo) / Boyz Chew Soon Heng (Co-Choreographer For His Solo)  / Foo Chi Wei (co-choreographer For His Solo) from The Dead Bird

Bisikan Monsoon
BEST LIGHTING DESIGN

Low Shee Hoe from Bisikan Monsoon
Tan Eng Heng from The iProject: Between Self And Others
Wee Jia Foong from Triple Bill Of Contemporary Dance Works

BEST SET DESIGN

David Wong from The Dead Bird
Elan Hasyim from The iProject: Between Self And Others
Ma Hui Shan from Continue I: Tongue

The Dead Bird
BEST CONSUMER DESIGN, STYLING & MAKE-UP

Quito Yang from The iProject : Between Self And Others
Tan Meng Chit / Hassou Neo By Quito Neng & Jacklyn Tan from Bisikan Monsoon
Victor Khoo from The Dead Bird

BEST MUSIC AND SOUND DESIGN

Bernard Goh / Kent Lee from The iProject: Between Self And Others
Chang Wei Loy / Orang Orang Drum Theatre / Gideon Alu8khan Chen from Bisikan Monsoon
Ng Chor Guan from Continue I: Tongue

MUSIC
BEST SOLO (INSTRUMENTAL)

Albert Tiu for Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto No 2 from A Mix of Russian With the KLPAC Orchestra
David Chin for Harpsichord Concerto in D major, BWV 1054 from Bach at New Year’s with Ensemble Virama
Samuel J Dass for Raag Basant Mukhari from Sitar: Swarasia Malaysia Kampungku

A Mix of Russian With the KLPAC Orchestra
BEST GROUP PERFORMANCE (INSTRUMENTAL)

Ensemble Virama for Prelude from Orchestral Suite No 1 in C for Bach at New Year’s with Ensemble Virama
Philharmonic Winds of Malaysia for October from American Tapestry
Philharmonic Winds of Malaysia for The Cowboys from American Tapestry

BEST SOLO PERFORMANCE (VOCAL)

Ang Mei Foong & Cipriano De Guzman Jr for Bess You Is My Woman from “Porgy and Bess” from Voci Vivace
Ang Mei Foong for Una Voce Poco Fa from “Il barbiere di Siviglia” from Voci Vivace
Chia Yee Yean, soprano for J.S. Bach – Cantata “Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen”, BWV 51 from Bach at New Year’s with Ensemble Virama

BEST GROUP PERFORMANCE (VOCAL)

The Young KL Singers from Declare Independence (Volta, 2007)
The Young KL Singers from Jóga (Homogenic, 1997)
The Young KL Singers from Venus as a Boy (Debut, 1993)

BEST MUSICAL DIRECTION

Eric Lee from American Tapestry
Mak Chi Hoe & Ian Chow from YKLS’ Aurora: A Tribute to Bjork
Samuel J Dass from Sitar : Swarasia Malaysia Kampungku

BEST ORIGINAL COMPOSITION

Jimmy Ch’ng for deConsTruction from ‘Unbeatable’ Kaleidoscope 5 International Drummin
Samuel J Dass for Canton Blossom from Sitar : Swarasia Malaysia Kampungku

BEST PRODUCTION VALUES

Eight Twelve from Eight Twelve
Hands Percussion from Unbeatable’ Kaleidoscope 5 International Drummin Festival
Young Choral Academy & The Actors Studio Seni Teater Rakyat from YKLS’ Aurora: A Tribute to Bjork

THEATRE
BEST ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE

Amanda Ang from The Optic Trilogy
Atiqah Abu Bakar from Nisya Khaleed
Jonathan Chew from The Bee By Hideki Noda & Colin Teevan
Patrick Teoh from Heroes

BEST ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE

Asrulfaizal Kamaruzaman from Mak Yong Titis Sakti
Emily Kaka from Dear Molly
Megat A’dil from I.Q. Rock
Rosdeen Suboh from Mak Yong Titis Sakti

BEST GROUP PERFORMANCE

Emily Kaka/Jessica Yap/Henry Liaw/Jacky Hong/Bryan Yeo/Eric Loh from The Light Seeker
Liang Ka En/Low Wai Kei/Ng Yuan Ci from Hoong Siamang Hooong
Smv Tfa Isd from I Am Ravana

I Am Ravana
BEST DIRECTION

Chang Wei Loy from Hoong Siamang Hooong
Kelvin Wong from The Bee By Hideki Noda & Colin Teevan
Tan Chee Ken from Dear Molly

BEST ORIGINAL SCRIPT

Khairi Anwar from I.Q. Rock
Namron With Lenny Erwan & Jerrica Lai from Lina Dan Lijah
Senibayan from Nisya Khaleed
Tan Chee Ken from Dear Molly

BEST LIGHTING DESIGN

Amelia Tan from The Ring Of The Nibelung
Eagle Lee from Dear Molly
Yusman Mokhtar from Teater Perdana Dbp ‘Pokok’

BEST SET DESIGN

Grace Looi from Dear Molly
Kelvin Wong from The Bee By Hideki Noda & Colin Teevan
Yusman Mokhtar from Teater Perdana Dbp ‘ Pokok’

BEST COSTUME DESIGN, STYLING & MAKE-UP

Beatrice Looi from The Ring Of The Nibelung
Grace Looi from Dear Molly
Smv Tfa Isd from I Am Ravana

BEST OF 2018

American Tapestry
Dear Molly
Eight Twelve
Hoong Siamang Hooong
Iq Rock
Olabola The Musical

‘Best Of Awards’ and ‘Category Awards’
Recipients of the ‘Best Of Awards’ will be entitled to exclusive support from Kakiseni including access to Backers Auditions to pitch their shows to prospective sponsors and to be fully-sponsored to attend the Australian Performing Arts Market in 2020.
‘Category Awards’ are given to recognise excellence in performance and production by individuals or groups. Recipients of these Awards get to take home an exclusive BOH Cameronian Arts Award trophy in addition to the RM1,000 cash prize.
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Filed Under 16th BOH Cameronian Arts AwardsBCAABOH Cameronian Arts Awards


WATCH: Jyotika & Karthi’s Thambi; A Gripping Thriller

Jyothika and Karthi’s Thambi teaser has been released, and the film promises to be a gripping thriller.
The makers have also released the teaser of the film and is going viral. The teaser was released by Suriya who tweeted saying,” I’m very happy that Jo & Karthi are sharing screen space! Here’s my #Thambi @Karthi_offl ‘s #ThambiTeaser”.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ipeWQ67AziU&feature=emb_logoVideo can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: THAMBI OFFICIAL TAMIL TEASER | KARTHI | JYOTIKA | SATHYARAJ | JEETHU JOSEPH (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ipeWQ67AziU&feature=emb_logo)

While the Tamil title Thambi is the title of Madhavan’s previous hit film, the Telugu title Donga happens to be the title of Chiranjeevi’s blockbuster hit film. Directed by A. Kodandarami Reddy, the film starred Chiranjeevi and Radha in the lead roles.
Thambi is the first time that Karthi and Jyotika are sharing screen space in a feature film. The film also stars Sathyaraj, Nikhila Vimal, and Anson Paul. While Jyotika will be seen playing Karthi’s sister, Sathyaraj will be seen as their father in the film. The film is scripted by Jeethu Joseph along with Rensil D’Silva and Manikandan.
Karthi will start shooting for Mani Ratnam’s epic historical drama Ponniyin Selvan soon. The shooting of the film is expected to kickstart in December and the first schedule has been planned in Thailand. The cast so far includes Vikram, Jayam Ravi, Karthi, Keerthy Suresh, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Parthiban and Jyotika among a few others. Apparently, most of the actors have already started prepping for the project.
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook or Telegram for more updates and breaking news. Related:  Sivakami; The Teacher who Self Taught to Become a Tamil Teacher
Filed Under JyothikaKarthiTamilthambi


Music Hopeful Amos Paul Renders 90’s Iconic Urvasi Urvasi Like No Other!

Amos Paul has always been working on music, a glimpse of his new music is available for streaming on his Instagram profile. This time around, he has wowed us yet again with Urvasi X Dance Monkey. This amazing hit features talented guitarist Timothy and bassist Rohan.
Despite the release of his new hit, all time favourite Urvasi Urvasi remains a golden treasure among his fans. Amos has brought a breath of fresh air to the 90s classic song and the results were mind blowing. The famous 90s tune was originally composed by musical maestro AR Rahman and sung by the musical genius himself, Suresh Peters and Shahul Hameed.
The song remains etched in our minds, eons after it was released with every millennial (born in the 80s – early 2000s) still humming to the song at one time or another. Since the release of the mashup song, it has reached over 3,000 views in just a single day! Congratulations Amos!
Check out the full video here:

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A post shared by AMOS PAUL (@amospaul_official)

What’s Amos up to next? Keep up with all things Amos on Instagram here!
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Filed Under bassist RohanGuitarist Timothymusical maestro AR RahmanShahulSuresh PetersUrvasi X Dance Monkey


Gangubai Kathiawadi Is Now Out On Netflix, And Here’s What You Need to Know!

Have you watched Gangubai Kathiawadi yet on Netflix? You haven’t, have you? Phewww… It’s a good thing you haven’t seen the movie yet because I’m about to give you some spoilers before you do. Don’t worry, I’m not going to destroy this movie or give it a terrible review, but there are a few things you should know. So, shall we?
Picture credit: The Indian Express
I witnessed a work of pure art by the juggernaut of genius, Sanjay Leela Bansali, while watching this film. When his starring actress flips her hair, his eyes hunt for magnificence and elegance in everything. In the Bollywood industry, his films such as Ramleela, Bajirao Mastani, and Padmavat have been marvels, and he is undoubtedly one of the top filmmakers with whom many actors aspire to work.
Since the release of the Gangubai Kathiawadi movie trailer, many people have been excitedly anticipating the release of the film, which has been delayed several times owing to the second wave of Covid in India, as well as another Alia Bhatt film by S. S. Rajamouli, RRR.
Picture credit: Filmfare.com
This is not your regular commercial Bollywood film with foreign location song sequences or challenging fighting scenes, but rather a journey about a lady whose story will never be told otherwise. Those days, there were times when movies were made solely for entertainment purposes. Even though, now, there are commercial films made merely for entertainment, there are films that stand out due to their compelling scripts.
Gangubai Kathiawadi, a biographical film, is a notable addition to the list. This film was made because the main character’s story needed to be told. For those who are unaware, this film is based on Hussain Zaidi’s book Mafia Queens of Mumbai, which portrays Gangubai as a woman of spirit rather than a victim of circumstance.
Picture credit: ScoopWhoop
When I first heard about this film, I was really interested to learn more about Gangubai and whether or not she is a sex worker.
Many people have such a negative impression of prostitutes or sex workers that they don’t even give them the respect that they deserve as human beings. Especially in those days when such activities were deemed taboo and had a negative impact on society. They were not treated with dignity or on an equal footing.
There are scenes in this film that depict how sex workers were viewed and treated in public places such as theatres and hospitals. Not only them, but their children were also forced to deal with the same problem when they were young. They were denied the right to attend school and were forbidden from marrying since they were born to a sex worker.
Related:  Ulaganayagan Kamal Haasan Awarded Outstanding Achievement in Indian Cinema at IIFA 2023Picture credit: Outlook India
And Gangubai fought for the rights of those women and children who didn’t really expect luxuries but only the most basic necessities, such as a house, education, and, most importantly, respect.
This film also depicts how, in those days, women were tossed or, even worse, sold to a brothel by their husbands or boyfriends for 500-1000 rupees.
According to a BBC report, a girl was 11 years old when she was taken to Mumbai, where she was promised a well-paid work as a housemaid to help feed her family due to financial difficulties. She ended up working as a sex worker in one of Asia’s notorious red light districts. A customer raped her, and she spent the following three months in the hospital.
This is how they end up, through compulsion rather than choice.
This film depicts how violent males can be towards a prostitute, and how she is raped despite being paid.
This film portrays every aspect of it, but don’t worry; the filmmaker devotes a considerable portion of the first half to setting the scene and acquainting you with his view. He doesn’t expect you to be in a hurry, thus the pace is leisurely. The first scene, on the other hand, will undoubtedly set the tone for how awful brothels really are.
Picture credit: Filmfare.com
Alia Bhatt deserves special recognition for her character in the movie, as this is widely regarded as one of her best performances in her career. One scene that significantly reached my heart was in a song sequence (Meri Jaan), when her lover tries to get physical with her, she stops him and instead tells him to caress her. Men have always exploited her physically, but none have ever shown her the affection, care, and intimacy that she craves.
CLICK HERE TO WATCH
Picture credit: Netflix
So, that’s it, and on that point, I highly urge everyone to see this film tonight and, if possible, to share your thoughts with us. Have a wonderful weekend!
Source: 1 , 2
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Filed Under alia bhattGangubaiGangubai KathiawadiGangubai KothewaliHindi movieMafia Queens of Mumbamovie recommendationNetflixSanjay Leela bansali


1200 Sid Sriram Penang Concert Tickets Sold In Under 12 Hours!

We don’t think there will ever come a time when Sid Sriram won’t play at a sold-out venue in Malaysia. After a widely successful show in Kuala Lumpur just a few months ago, Woodmark Events announced that they were kickstarting a series of Sid Sriram concerts in over 10 major cities in the world.

The first stop: PENANG!

The show announcement received thousands of likes and shares on social media and when the tickets were up for sales yesterday morning, fans of Sid Sriram dashed to get their hands on the show passes. The organisers thanked the fans for their overwhelming response in an Instagram post captioned, “1,200 tickets sold under 12 hours. Thank you for your love & support!”

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A post shared by WoodMark Events (@woodmarkevents)

This will be Sid Sriram’s 7th show in Malaysia and tickets to the concert are still available on airasiaredtix.com/tickets/sidsrirampenang starting from RM99.
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook or Telegram for more updates and breaking news. Related:  Parai: The Earliest Indian Percussion
Filed Under concertMalaysiamusicpenangSid Sriramsid sriram live in penangwoodmark events


Hey Guys, Whether I Wear Pottu Or Not Is None Of Your Business!

A few days ago, this writer was confronted about her choice not to wear a pottu with traditional Indian clothing. This was followed by a mini lecture on why as a Hindu woman, a pottu is a necessity to signify if the lady is single, married or widowed.
The only question on my mind was, “Why do I need to display my marital status on my forehead?” Of course, we are too polite to utter remarks like this when an aunty who means well tells us that the adornment of a red (or black) dot is imperative. But it really made me think about why we non-pottu wearers are constantly badgered about the dot people don’t see.
Source: Urban Clap
Why then, are women constantly asked to wear the pottu? “Oh, it has plenty of health benefits, ma,” clarifies Aunty A, sporting a pottu the size of our old 50 sen coin. “It clears your sinuses, relieves headaches, boosts your memory and improves your vision, because it sits on an important nerve on your face,” she continues. Wow Aunty, a sticker can do all of that?
As someone who has studied the nerves of the face in detail, allow me to clarify what this nerve is that they are referring to. A branch of the trigerminal nerve passes through the area between one’s eyebrows.
According to Aunty A’s logic, stimulating this nerve (by way of plastering a coloured adhesive on it) is the reason that the humble pottu has so many health benefits. A simple Google search will yield how the trigerminal nerve is stimulated, and trust me, it doesn’t have much to do with the presence or absence of a pottu.
Source: Glo Tats
“No ma, it’s because of your third eye!” chimes in Aunty B. According to her, a pottu will ward off bad luck and act as a shield against the evil eye of the malicious. Aunty B goes on to say that the pottu is worn between the eyebrows as that’s where the Ajna Chakra is located (some also refer to this as the third eye) and as it is the centre of your forehead, it is the point of concentration. Energy is released through this chakra, and hence the pottu is believed to cool the forehead and prevent energy loss.
While science hasn’t really caught up with these beliefs, meaning there is currently no scientific evidence of any of the above, it is a tradition that Hindus fiercely stand by. Personally, I have no problem with this. To each, his own. What I do have a problem with is, shoving culture and tradition down one’s throat. And doing it on a gender selective basis just makes me livid.
Hindu men aren’t expected to display any embellishment to signify their marital status. While that is horridly unfair, it is important to remember that a pottu may have been a necessity back in the day. Women back then needed a man by their side. Hence they felt the need to constantly display their availability for marriage on their foreheads. However, things have changed in today’s world.
Some of us Malaysian Indians who are Hindu by religion have been trained to wear the pottu from a young age. To the point that it becomes a habit and we can’t see ourselves in the mirror without the tiny black dot between our eyebrows. It becomes a part of us, one that we grow to love, even as we go for a swim or hit the clubs. Ladies, if that floats your boat, good on you!
Source: Pinterest
We are merely saying that weather a woman wears a pottu or not is ENTIRELY up to her. If she chooses to only wear vibuthi, it doesn’t make her a widow. It just makes her a person who prefers to adorn the holy ash. If she wears a saree without a pottu, and people assume that she’s not Hindu, so what? Her religion is between her and God, and YOU have no authority to tell her otherwise, no matter how well meaning you are.
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Simbu To Star In Indian 2 Amidst Controversy

Actor Simbu is all set to star in Shankar’s upcoming blockbuster, Indian 2. The film is a sequel to the classic, Indian, released in 1996. Simbu will play Kamal Hassan’s grandson in the upcoming feature.
After an unsuccessful outing with Anbanavan Asaradhavan Adangadhavan, Simbu tasted success by playing a supporting role in Mani Ratnam’s Chekka Chivantha Vaanam. He then appeared in a bland cameo in Jyothika’s Kaatrin Mozhi. Things haven’t been great for the actor, so it looks like this role in Indian 2 might be just the injection of glam that his career needs. Indian 2 stars Kajal Aggarwal and Nedumuni Venu. Dulquer Salman may also be roped in to star in the blockbuster.

The actor has been embroiled in controversy lately. Anbanavan Asaradhavan Adangadhavan director Adhik Ravichandran and producer S. Michael Rayappan alleged that Simbu was responsible the movie’s failure in the box office. They accused him of changing the script, not cooperating during the shoot and also forcing them to do the film as a two part film, which they believe was the reason for the film’s bad run.
According to director Adhik, the crew wasn’t able to shoot the film from Dubai to Kasi as initally planned, due to Simbu’s lack of cooperation. The scenes with actresses Tammanaah and Shreya were not shot as planned due to this, resulting in call sheets going to waste and heavy losses.

Producer Michael also issued a statement saying that upon receiving his payment, Simbu took full control of the film and insisted on the film being released before shooting was completed. He said that they had incurred more than ₹20 Crore (RM11mil) in losses. Vishal, being the Tamil Film Production Council president, intervened to try to solve the issue out amicably, but failed to do so.
Related:  Kamal Hassan To Play a Farmer in his Next Film With H. VinothThe actor is notorious for bad behaviour on set such as arriving late to shooting, according to entertainment website Indiaglitz.

In retaliation, Simbu slapped the director and producer with a defamation law suit. The case came up for hearing yesterday and the court has sent notices the producer and Vishal to file their replies before the 18th of January 2019.
It will be interesting to see if this law suit has any effect on the actor’s career. We think not.
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Filed Under Anbanavan Asaradhavan AdangadhavanIndian 2Kamal HaasanlawsuitSimbu


The essence of Navaratri-Nine Nights ; Nine Avatars of Goddess Durga

Navaratri means nine nights in Sanskrit. On these nine nights, people will be fasting and offering special prayers to the Nine Forms of goddess Durga. Goddess Durga is the incarnation of Goddess Parvati. She took Devi Durga’s avatar to destroy Mahishasura.
Day 1- Goddess Shailaputri

Defined as Pratipada, this day is connected with Shailaputri (daughter of the mountain), the embodiment of Parvati. It is in this aspect that the Goddess is worshiped as the consort of Shiva and she is depicted as riding a horse, nandi, with a trishul in her right hand and a lotus in her left hand. Shailaputri is known to be the primary manifestation of Mahakali.
Day 2- Goddess Brahmakarini

The second day of Navaratri is devoted to the goddess Brahmacharini. The goddess walks bare foot with a rudraksha mala in one hand and a holy kamandalu in the other. The meditative form of this goddess symbolises Goddess Parvati when she was engaged in a deep meditation to please Lord Shiva.
Day 3- Goddess Chandraghanta
The name derives from the fact that Parvati after marrying Shiva, adorned her forehead with an Ardha Chandra (half-moon). She is the manifestation of grace, and she is indeed a sign of courage. She is a fierce 10-armed goddess with a crescent moon on her forehead, which gives her the name Chandraghanta. She rides on a tiger to destroy all evil and wickedness.
Day 4- Goddess Kushmanda

Chaturthi, or the fourth day of Navaratri is dedicated to Goddess Kushmanda. The name Kushmanda is derived from three words ku meaning little, ushma meaning warmth or energy, and anda which means egg, know as creator of the universe. Kushmanda is thought to be the artistic force of the cosmos, connected with the endowment of life on earth.
Day 5- Goddess Skandmata

Skandamata, the goddess worshiped by Panchami, is the mother of Skanda known as Kartikeya. She was seen riding a fearsome lion, having four arms, and carrying her son.
Day 6- Goddess Katyayani

Also known as the warrior goddess, Katyayani is considered to be one of the most violent forms of the goddess Parvati. She has got four arms and she can be seen holding a sword. She is the daughter of Sage Katyayan, and she rides a lion.
Day 7- Goddess Kalaratri

Kalaratri, believed to be the most fearsome form of the goddess Durga, is worshipped on Saptami. It is believed that Parvati removed her fair skin to kill the demons Sumbha and Nisumbha. She is a four-armed god who rides a donkey, carries a sword, a trident, and a noose. She has a third eye on her forehead, which is thought to contain the whole world.
Day 8- Goddess Mahagauri

Durga Ashtami, or eight-day Navaratri, is devoted to the goddess of Mahagauri. She is a four-armed deity who rides a lion or a white elephant. She can be seen holding a trishul and a damru in her hands.
Day 9- Goddess Siddhidatri

The last day of the festival is known as Navami, where people pray to Siddhidhatri. Sitting on a lotus, she is believed to possess and bestow all types of Siddhis. Here she has four hands often known as the Goddess Sri Lakshmi. This shape of the goddess Durga implies perfection.
The Navaratri festival in India honours the triumph of good over evil. Each night is a celebration of a different female Avatar of the Goddess Durga. The festivities and customs practiced vary from region to region. People in different parts of the country celebrate the same festival differently. Although they worship the same deity, they perform different rituals.
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