Waking Up During Brahma Muhurta Enriches Your Lifestyle

The idea of getting out of bed before the sunrise makes many people unhappy. Ayurveda asserts that the opposite is true; that rising extremely early is one of the greatest methods to reduce anxiety and negative thinking, connect with nature, and improve sattva – mental clarity and positivity.
Elders in the family commonly awaken with the sun, or sometimes even earlier. They claim that it gives them more time during the day to carry out tasks and also gives them a sense of energy and harmony with cycles of nature.
Ancient Hindu sacred teachings state that one should awaken at the Brahma Muhurta.
What is Brahma Muhurta?
Image credit: Solancha.com
The early morning period known as Brahma Muhurta, which occurs exactly one and a half hours before sunrise, is considered by the sages to be an auspicious time for rising early. Brahma Muhurta, also known as the time of Brahma, is the holiest and most ideal time for meditation and devotion.
The Brahma Muhurta times fall between 4am to 6am.
The perks of rising early and matching one’s activities with the cycle of the sun are vast. At this moment, a powerful frequency of energy floods the area with inspiration, optimism, and serenity.
Benefits of Brahma Muhurta
Self awareness
Image credit: Talkspace
The finest moment to get supreme knowledge and everlasting bliss is during the Brahma Muhurta. Positive thoughts and brilliant ideas flow effortlessly when the environment is peaceful and the mind is at ease.
Pursuit of knowledge
Image credit: The Conversation
The optimal time to study is during Brahma Muhurta. The mind is like a blank piece of paper during this time of the day, and it can absorb information far more effectively than at any other time.
Related:  Sivakami; The Teacher who Self Taught to Become a Tamil TeacherImprove in health
Image credit: Vinmec
A fundamental shift in improved health, strength, and spiritual oomph will be felt by all who awaken at this time. The toxic, anxious, vexing, negative emotions are all pushed away; instead, people are often more contemptuous and have a more optimistic outlook on life.
Anti-aging effects
Image credit: CNN
The aging process can be slowed down by synchronising our biological clock with the sun’s rising and setting. Also, it delays the sign of aging and its associated health risks.
Now you see why your elders always tell you to practice rising early. All of them not only teach you self-discipline but also provide you the opportunity to do this one thing that can greatly enrich your life.
Although adjusting to this new routine may seem difficult at first, once it becomes a habit, its hard to go the other way.
SOURCE: [1,2]
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Filed Under anti-agingayurvedaBrahma MuhurtaeducationhealthHindusattvaself awareness


The Power Of An Honest Conversation

Warning: This is going to be a pretty long article.
I am going to start this conversation with you through this article. Remember, no matter what the end of this article is, I want you, my readers, to know that spiritualism is a journey and we are all at different stages in life. Don’t be harsh and unkind to yourself. Accept whatever that happens to you and see how life unravels itself.
As cliche as this sounds, I can now daringly say that, I have had the luxury to have experienced a handful number of honest conversations. Firstly, I want to clarify and say that not every conversation i have with other people is 100% honest. But just maybe sometimes, if I am lucky, I get to have an honest conversation with other people. Now, let’s go back to the perks of an honest conversation.
Credit: Marts Brzosko

Your time

If there is one thing I could ever hate more than an unkind person is the failure of time management. Yes, I hate wasting time. With an honest conversation, you save so much time. If you are out on a date, and both of you decide to be honest right from the get go, then I don’t see why anyone would intentionally waste anyone’s time. Both of you have one honest conversation and so much of doubt is cleared. You then decide what’s best for yourself and move on to the next thing in life. Here is a personal belief, I do give myself a fixed amount of time to work on anything in life. If I am upset about a friendship break up, I give myself some time to accept and understand whatever that happened. But after that time is over, I make sure I am over it and I move on to my next focus. The sooner you get to it, the sooner you are opening yourself to other adventures in life.

2. Your energy
I cannot stress how important it is to protect your energy. I believe that your energy can really alter your life experiences. Post honest conversation would leave you feeling a little disrupted in your energy. That is normal. Remember, an honest conversation could be super painful to be part of. It has that kind of pain that makes you question many of your own personal beliefs too. So for a little while, you may feel off, but remember, after a while, with realisations and acceptance, your energy will come back to you. But an honest conversation is good for your energy. With realignment, you will come back stronger. That would make you a better individual and needless to say how that affects us as a community.

3. Most importantly, your peace
This is my favourite one. Your mental space is so fragile. In this world of social media, it is needless to say how that could affect us negatively. We are basing some of the fundamental beliefs in our life with the stuff we see on social media. So whether for good or for bad, this is a very sensitive space and you need to protect it. We work so hard on ourselves to make sure you keep yourself happy and content.

Every dishonest conversation you have, you chip off a little more from your mental space.
Now, time for a truth bomb.
YOU DON”T HAVE TO HAVE AN HONEST CONVERSATION WITH EVERYONE IN YOUR LIFE
WHATT!!! I know right. Like I said earlier, an honest conversation is very painful. If you do this every time, you will just be exhausted with life. Too much of anything will kill you! Same concept here. If you have a difficult person in your life, I would totally understand if you do not want to have an honest conversation with them. It would be pointless to speak to people who are very defensive. Trust me, I have been a defensive person before, and I wasted so much time in a friendship that was never going to go anywhere. But yeah, I was defensive and I wasted my time and energy, luckily not my peace.
So pick your battles. Have an honest conversation with someone who is also on the same wavelength as you. It would be uncomfortable but it would be an important one. Have an honest conversation with someone who would appreciate the truth.
I know, you probably now have this question for me,
“ Tiviya, are you saying that I should lie to them?”
Yes. Hear me out. Only people who are honest would deserve honesty out of you. So give it to someone worthy of that. Don’t give any handouts, trust me, it won’t do you well. There are times where I would lie by saying, there is no problem at all. This is my most common one. When I say this, I really know that I am not going to waste my time with people who lie to me.
“Tiviya, aren’t you being a hypocrite?”
It depends on the lens you chose to view. I know that too much of one thing will kill me. But for some people, they only believe in 100% truth. For me, that would be so suffocating. I have to tell a lie in order to protect myself.
Be brutally honest with the people you love. Be honest with the people around you. Trust me, there is a difference. I practice that and can only hope that the people around me believe in this too.
I urge you to start having more important, uncomfortable and HONEST conversations with your loved ones. The pandemic has shown the world how important it is to care for yourself and the ones around you.
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Filed Under mental healthmental health awarenessspiritual hygiene


Isaiyin Oli – An All Malaysian Charity Live Show By Captain Seelan & The Banditz

Over the past few years, it has become a norm for event organizers to bring singers from India to perform for the Malaysian crowd. We rarely see Malaysian artistes taking on a solo live show for our own people. Captain Seelan is all set to break this trend with his upcoming live performance, Isaiyin Oli.
“It has been my dream for a while to do this,” Kanaga Seelan Tarmalinggam, better known as Captain Seelan, starts off by telling us. “I enjoy doing live shows, it’s something that I have been doing for the past 20 years,”

Captain Seelan was with the Royal Malaysian Air Force for a decade. In the midst of his stint in the army, he joined Astro’s Paadal Thiran Potti. He then left the army, and is now an air traffic controller with the Department of Civil Aviation. His heart, however, never left the stage.
A seasoned performer, Seelan has been performing for private and corporate events for the past two decades. After a brief hiatus from the music scene, he found his footing again with Smule, the musical application. Seelan has acquired a sizable number of followers and fans alike through his renditions on the app.
Some time ago, live shows were part of a trend that Malaysians adored. With the advent of technology, people began losing interest.
“Some time ago, live shows were part of a trend that Malaysians adored. With the advent of technology, people began losing interest. I want to bring back the trend of a live show with Isaiyin Oli,” Seelan tells us.
The singing air traffic controller works closely with SJKT Thamboosamy Pillai Sentul, and along with his friends, have been actively helping the school out with their needs. The profits from this show will be channeled towards the school.
“I didn’t want to give the students the usual things like school uniforms and what not. I want to encourage participation in sports among the pupils. So our team has promised to get them a range of sports equipment, including a table tennis table,” Seelan adds.
Captain Seelan during a rehearsal with The Banditz
Needless to say, the cost incurred when organizing a live show like this can go through the roof. “People are afraid to do live shows because they don’t know if they can garner enough revenue to cover the cost of the show. Let’s get real, it isn’t cheap to organize a show,” Seelan tells us.
The problem is, the Malaysian audience do not hesitate to pay to watch a singer from India but when it comes to Malaysian singers, they expect a free performance. Seelan wants to change this. “Organizers aren’t reluctant to pay RM80,000 to RM100,000 for an Indian performer to come over, but they think twice before forking out any money to hire a local artiste,” he tells us. “Music doesn’t come for free. We have value, too!”
Related:  Selangor Grants Financial Aid To Tamil University Students“All artistes have value and that should be recognized. Malaysian artistes shouldn’t be insulted by being asked to perform for free,” Seelan adds, vehemently.
Malaysian artistes shouldn’t be insulted by being asked to perform for free
But going forward with Isaiyin Oli hasn’t come without its fair share of detractors. “I have been trolled, people ask me if I am that big an artiste to helm a live show on my own,” Fortunately, Seelan is too dedicated to his craft to let these naysayers get to him.
The Banditz
Seelan will be performing with The Banditz at Isaiyin Oli, one of the most established bands the Malaysian Tamil music scene has seen in recent history. “They do wonderful arrangements, medleys and mashups for Tamil songs, especially for tunes from the 80s and 90s,”
The Banditz do wonderful arrangements, medleys and mashups for Tamil songs, especially for tunes from the 80s and 90s
Speaking of the 80s and the 90s, Seelan assures us that all the songs performed during Isaiyin Oli will be of that era, “AR Rahman and Illayaraaja’s golden years, those are the songs that we will be performing,” Isaiyin Oli will also feature singers Marial Thomas and Prieya Vathani.
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time this team is performing for a live show. Seelan, Marial and Prieya performed together with The Banditz last year, during their stage show, Cover It Up 2018. “Cover It Up was how all of us got connected,” Seelan reveals. If that show is anything to go by, Isaiyin Oli is going to be a rousing success.
“It’s going to be an incredible experience,” Seelan assures us.

Isaiyin Oli will take place on the 30th of June 2019 at Auditorium Tan Sri KR Soma. To get your tickets, contact Captain Seelan at +6016 201 9513, or Jeff at +6018 378 5034.
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Filed Under bandcaptain seelancharity showisaiyin olilive showSJKT Thamboosamy PillaiTamil schoolthe banditz


Dhanush More Excited About ‘Vada Chennai’ Than ‘Maari 2’

Actor Krishna, who started his journey as a child artist in Maniratnam’s Anjali is playing the second lead in Dhanush’s Maari 2 – which is directed by Balaji Mohan.
Based on his recent posts, we clearly can see that he has wrapped up shooting for his portions in the film.
Apart from him, Maari 2 – which is touted to be a sequel to the gangster film that came out in 2014 – also consist of stars like Tovino Thomas, Varalaxmi Sarathkumar, Krishna and Robo Shankar in important roles.

Being Dhanush’s Wunderbar Films’ production, the music of this movie is not by Wunderbar’s regular wonder kid Anirudh – who actually did the music for the previous film. Instead of him, the musical job is taken over by Yuvan Shankar Raja.
Despite these exciting updates, somehow news on street is that Maari 2 star Dhanush – and also his fans – are more excited about the release of the much awaited gangster flick Vada Chennai by Vetri Maaran.
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Filed Under DhanushMaari 2Vada Chennai


Tamil Nadu Sweetheart Oviya’s Upcoming Projects

Tamil Nadu sweetheart Oviya has been busy working on her numerous projects.
She recently played a minor role in Vishnu Vishal’s upcoming movie, Silukkuvaarpatti Singam. The upcoming film also stars Regina Cassandra as well as Yogi Babu, Anandaraj, Karunakaran, Livingston, Sai Ravi, Soundararaja, Mansoor Ali Khan and Singamuthu in supporting roles. Silukkuvaarpatti Singam is written and directed by Chella Ayavu
Oviya will also be featured in a song, ‘Dio Rio Diya’. Leon James has composed the music for Silukkuvaarpatti Singam. The movie is set to release on the 21st of December.

https://youtu.be/466DXAt5a3cVideo can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: Dio Rio Diya Song Lyric Tamil | Silukkuvarupatti Singam Songs | Vishnuu Vishal, Oviya | Leon James (https://youtu.be/466DXAt5a3c)

Oviya will also star opposite Bigg Boss Tamil winner, Arav in an’extended cameo in his upcoming flick, Raja Bheema. The shooting of a kuthu song featuring Arav and Oviya was completed last weekend in Pollachi.
Her two other movies, Kanchana 3 and 90ML are in the midst of being filmed.
In 90ML, Oviya is the lead actress, while not much information is available on the rest of the cast. The actress will has made her singing debut with the song Marana Matta, composed by actor Simbu, who has taken on the role of music director for the film.

Kanchana 3, on the other hand, will star Oviya opposite Vedhika and Raghava Lawrence. The horror film will also star Kovai Sarala, Manobala, Devadarshini and Sriman. Interestingly, shooting began in October 2017 but the movie will only be released in April next year.
The actress is also working on Kalavani 2. The film is a sequel of Kalavani, with which she pocketed the Edison Awards’ Best New Actress award. Oviya will act alongside Vimal in this flick.

Oviya’s stint as an actress was an unsuccessful one, up until she participated in Bigg Boss Tamil last year. During her stay at the house, she was eventually ostracized by the rest of the housemates and this drew in the fans. Oviya was a favourite in the house, and was predicted to win the show with a landslide victory. Unfortunately, she left before the show ended, citing mental issues.
Fast forward one year, the actress now has her call sheets full and is reportedly unable to take on any new film offers for the time being. You go girl!
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Filed Under Oviya


“The Meet” By Rishi Ghanesh Emphasises On True Friendship

As an adult, you realise that sustaining friendships takes effort and time, but you also understand how crucial it is to stay in contact with the important people in your life. After all, close friends do lower stress, keep you sharp, and help you live longer.
But what if we lose a friend who promises to stay together through thick and thin?
Painful right? Well, that’s what The Meet emphasises over the meaning of true friendships.
Helmed by Rishi Ghanesh Chapter 1 : The Tale Of Two Friends short film is a heartwarming buddy comedy that handles some pretty deep themes. The storyline is quite common, but it is still a great flick thanks to the casts who have delivered a solid performance.

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A post shared by Rishi Ghanesh (@rishighanesh12)

This short film elegantly depicts the beauty and frustration of losing a close friend, and how the loss has changed the respective person’s life. Featuring Dhinesh Sivasangar, Poowarasan, Logasree Muniyandhy, and Pravina Selvaraju in pivotal roles, the flick is appreciated for the weight and depth it gives not only to friendships, but to the complex interiority and strength of a young adult.
Watch the full short film here:

https://youtu.be/VZOM5Ojnj6kVideo can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: The Meet | NN Home Production | Rishi Ghanesh | Dhinesh Sivasangar | Poowarasan | Short Film | CC (https://youtu.be/VZOM5Ojnj6k)

Kudos to the entire crew members who took a great amount of time and effort to produce a short film with full of moral values.
Project Manager : Logasree Muniyandhy
Assistant Director : Srisarvin Mani
Camera Operator : Kartigeson Ganeson
Gaffer : Selvaganabathy
Screenplay Consultant : Uma Sunthary Subramaniam
Sound Design : Kurivilla a.k.a Vishal
Location Manager : Prasad Kunasekaran
Publicity Design : Rishi Ghanesh
Dialogue : Rishi Ghanesh
Logo VFX : Kevin Marshall Francis
Screenplay : Rishi Ghanesh
Executive Producer : Shanthi Subramaniam
Film Producer : Rishi Ghanesh
Production House : NN Home Production
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Filed Under "The Meet"Dhinesh SivasangarFriendshipLogasree MuniyandhyPoowarasanPravina SelvarajuRishi Ghaneshshort film


Survivor Reveals Its First Eight Contestants In Latest Promo

The most anticipated reality show on Tamil television is ‘Survivor’, which combines the best of reality, drama, and entertainment. Zee Tamil is set to make history in the South Indian television entertainment industry when it premieres on September 12th.
Following the announcement that Survivor will be hosted by none other than Action King Arjun, the channel that will air the show has revealed a few of their contestants in their most recent promo.
Picture credit: Arya Official Twitter Page
The teaser, which features a glimpse of the show’s location on a remote island, as well as glimpses of the contestants, has been released by popular actor Arya.

Nandaa Dorairaj, Vijayalakshmi Ahathiyan, Besant Ravi, Gayathri Reddy, Shristi Dange, Umapathy Ramaiah, Vikranth Santhosh, and VJ Parvathy are the contestants who have been revealed so far, but the rest of the list is unknown.
There are rumours or wild guesses as to who else will appear in the show, but we’ll have to wait for the official announcement.
These tasks and games in the show are expected to put contestants’ mental and physical strength to the test, and we’ll see how the entertainment industry’s finest talents handle these challenges.
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Filed Under Arjun zee tamizhSurvivor


Tamil School Students Ace It At World Youth Invention and Innovation Award

Tamil schools in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, and Penang bagged two gold, four silver, and six bronze awards at an international innovation festival. Another impressive achievement by our young minds!
The Indonesian Young Scientists Association (IYSA) in collaboration with Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta hosted the World Youth Invention and Innovation Award (WYIIA) from 16 July to 21 August.
 This event aims to give them the opportunity to show off their work and projects, as well as to improve the quality and types of innovative projects that have contributed to the world’s development.
Based on a Makkal Osai report, the students were trained for about three months, according to trainers R. Shanmuganathan and Surendran Gobalakrishnan.
Picture credit: Astro Ulagam
They added that the 47 students from SJK (T) Permatang Tinggi, SJK (T) Mak Mandin, SJK (T) Taman Melawati, SJK (T) Simpang Lima, and SJK (T) Castlefield excelled with their innovations and presentations despite competing against 377 teams from 35 countries.
On 18 August, skilled children aged 8 to 11 presented their inventions online via Zoom, and the results delighted the students’ teachers. The gold, silver, and bronze medalists, as well as their inventions, are listed below.
GOLD MEDAL
SJKT Taman Melawati  – ‘My soil, my plant’
SJKT Ladang Highlands – ‘Toxic air detector and alert’
SILVER MEDAL
SJKT Permatang Tinggi – a self-boosting bio-degradable pot
SJKT Simpang Lima – is an organic face mask that purifies the air that is breathed in by the user.
SJKT Ladang Highlands – a mobile rainwater harvest
SJKT Castlefield –  a ‘COVID-19 shopping mall crowd control system’ that restricts the number of people who can enter a location at any given time.
BRONZE MEDAL
SJKT Mak Mandin – Fire lock system
SJKT Castlefield – Home light auto off
SJKT Ladang Highlands – Natural pandan cockroach repellent
SJKT Ladang Highlands – Non-alcoholic hand sanitiser
SJKT Padang Highlands – Vermicompost bin
SJKT Permatang Tinggi – Rain detector and alert system
Congratulations to the young winners on their victories! Wishing you luck in winning more medals for our beloved Malaysia in the near future!
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Filed Under 47 tamil schoolsIndonesian Young Scientists Association (IYSA)R. ShanmuganathanSurendran GobalakrishnanUniversitas Negeri YogyakartaWorld Youth Invention and Innovation Award (WYIIA)


WATCH: Dhanush’s Latest Tune – Engleesu Lovesu

Dhanush is back to singing in half baked English for the Tamil version of his upcoming film, Extraordinary Journey of the Fakir. The actor routinely sings Tamil songs, with his last English-Tamil tune being the super successful Why This Kolaveri Di from the movie 3. His latest tune is Engleesu Lovesu.
The Tamil dubbed version of Extraordinary Journey of the Fakir is called Pakkiri. Engleesu Lovesu has been composed by Amit Trivedi with lyrics by Madhan Karky. Canadian singer Jonita Gandhi also sings for this tune.
Extraordinary Journey of the Fakir and Pakkiri will release in Malaysia on June 21st.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YbByGNevgc0Video can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: Engleesu Lovesu – Pakkiri | Dhanush & Jonita Gandhi | Amit Trivedi (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YbByGNevgc0)

https://varnam.my/news/2019/9659/dhanushs-the-extraordinary-journey-of-the-fakir-trailer-is-here/
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Filed Under amit trivediDhanushengleesu lovesuExtraordinary Journey of the Fakirjonita gandhimadhan karkyPakkiri


Atlee Confirms His Telugu Debut; Teaming Up With Jr NTR!

Atlee confirmed that he will soon make his Telugu debut with a yet-untitled project starring Jr NTR in the lead. He spoke at the pre-release event of Whistle, the Telugu dubbed version of Bigil in Hyderabad on Wednesday, Atlee dropped a hint about his Telugu debut.

“I am indebted to the Telugu audience. I have been longing to direct a Telugu film and my wish is going to be fulfilled soon. Jr. NTR is a good-hearted and transparent person. He always leaves a heart-warming message for my every film and I am thankful for his support,”
Talking about Bigil, Atlee said:
“Atrocities against women is one of the major topics of discussion in our country today. So, we thought of making an emotional film which can make a difference to the society, highlighting such issues in an artistic way.
Bigil marks the third collaboration of Atlee and Vijay after Theri and Mersal. Produced by AGS Entertainment on a staggering budget of Rs 180 crore, the film releases on Friday in over 4000 screens worldwide. Vijay plays dual roles in Bigil, which has been directed by Atlee. It also stars Jackie Shroff, Nayanthara, Kathir, Yogi Babu and Vivek in crucial roles.
The film, which has music by AR Rahman, also stars Nayanthara, Kathir, Yogi Babu and Vivek in crucial roles.
More updates to follow!
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Filed Under atleebigiltelugutolllywood


Sick Of Being Told What To Do? Read This!

The whole purpose of this article is for me to share my story and hope that the people around me would be able to understand why unsolicited advice from random “aunties” are really pointless. Also, this is an article dedicated to Indian women; it does not mean that this has never happened to women of other ethnicities. Now that that is out of the way, let’s jump into the article!
Ever since I was a little girl, I was always told what to do. But the question is, did I oblige? Answer is yes and no. There were times when I felt so grateful when someone pointed things out to me and told me what to do as mentally, I was not doing very well. Then, there were also times when I would get unsolicited advice from random people, telling me how to live my life. So, here’s the thing. You can never totally avoid it, but you can sort of deal with it.
Copy right: http://www.takepart.com/article/2016/01/13/happy-to-bleed-india/
Until I had a mind of my own, I would listen and let other people’s opinions affect my life. Once I started claiming my own power, I made my own decisions, even when times were difficult. Needless to say, now, being 100% financially independent, I am more empowered than ever. I can proudly say that, I still do hear people talking about my life choices behind my back but they do not have the guts to come up to me. Like the majority of the society, they speak about it when I am not around to comfort their regressive mind.
For aeons, Indian women have internalised the damage of misogyny that they were raised with. This has gone to an extent whereby they feel that, no matter what decision they make, they will have to ask their parents or any authoritative figures in their lives for permission. This is the direct result of being told that, “no matter how educated you are, don’t forget that you are an Indian woman! You need to respect the culture and your elders!”
Credit: Freepik
What does this even mean? Does this mean that I should limit myself even more because of my ethnicity? Does this mean that I need to not progress with the society to maintain the “kudumba kuthu vilakku” image? To be honest, when I first heard this, I was lost. I had to ask my father, sorry but what do you mean? I was genuinely lost because I had worked on my mind without this idea that I need to limit myself due to my “culture”.
Why are Indian women so used to hearing people telling them how to live their lives? Is this because of the space we give them or is it that some people just have really thick skin? I have heard of many Indian women who constantly complain about how their relatives don’t understand what a progressive mindset should be. Question is, why do you seek their validation or the need for them to understand your way of life?
Credit: Blue Marble Professionals
For example, it would be nice to invite one of your aunties to come to a brunch hosted by you and your partner on a beautiful Sunday afternoon, cause when in doubt, you brunch! It would also be nice for them to understand the importance of living together before getting married. BUT, that isn’t the reality for many Indian women. The reality is that they lie to their own family about where they live, and with whom, because they cannot deal with the alternative.
“ WHAT WOULD PEOPLE THINK?”
“ HOW CAN YOU BRING DISGRACE TO YOUR FAMILY NAME?”

“ WHO WILL MARRY YOU IF YOU DON’T END UP WITH THIS GUY?”
These may just be questions, but they say a lot. They insinuate that a well behaved Indian woman would never do such things and her worth is determined by the presence of a “life partner”, when really his perception of her is just about baby making. Because what is a woman’s worth if she does not have babies!
Related:  Top 5 Oldest Hindu Temples In MalaysiaIf you have your own way of life, own up to it! This would take a lot of courage and empowerment but it builds your character. If you want to have sex before marriage, then go for it. Stand your grounds on what you believe in. Now, I understand that it can be disheartening if your parents do not agree with you. After-all, though we are all grown ups, as children, we did want our parents to support us in what we do. However, you need to be realistic about the blurred lines here.
It is either, you change your way of thinking and life to make sure you are making the right choices in their eyes, or make your own decisions and choices and stand by it no matter what. The choices you make lie in your hands. This will help with accountability and making sure that you live your life to the fullest.
Credit: Getty Images
There is a guideline that I follow, which is that, never bring pain and hurt to another person’s life with your choices. Physical pain I mean! Emotionally, if they cannot fathom your decision, then there is nothing you can do about it. Sometimes, some nonchalance is good for you.
I do admit that, this might not be for everyone as I acknowledge my privileges. I was blessed enough to have a tertiary education and that has empowered me in ways I cannot describe. But, all I am asking for is, to step out of your comfort zone today and empower yourself by making a decision for yourself and by yourself. It could be the smallest thing like clothing, food or even a movie! Today, it is a small step, but ultimately, you are subconsciously empowering yourself. Try it. Trust me, it’s addictive!
To answer the main question, I think why Indian women are always told what to do is because the people who are telling them lack empowerment to live their own lives. They find their sense of fulfilment through managing the lives of others. If you are an “auntie” reading this article, I urge you to acknowledge this behaviour and start reflecting on your life choices. Is someone telling you what to do? Look closer! Set an example for the upcoming generation by being an empowered woman! Remember,
“ Empowered women empower people”
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Filed Under CultureFeminismindian womanliberation


Of Kalacharam, Off Shoulder Tops & Why Indians Can’t Mind Their Own Business

Earlier this week, we read the toe curling story of Rubashini who was cyberbullied for making a Musical.ly video in clothing of her choice. A slew of Tamil profanities and harassing messages in broken English were hurled at her because of her dressing, questioning her morals and upbringing, even calling her a porn star, saying that she deserves to be raped.
Based on their Facebook names and the language used, it is interesting to note that the bulk of these comments came from men and women of Indian heritage, most of whom are Malaysian.
All of which made us wonder, why do some Malaysian Indians feel entitled enough to post such crass messages on a public page about a person they don’t know from Adam? One would think that Indians policing women’s dressing is an issue of the past. And yet, in 2018, people – both men & women – still find it acceptable to tell a woman how to be/dress/speak like a woman.
Is patriarchy the root of all this? Or could it be the male worshipping culture that most Indians are born with? Why are Indians so nasty?
“We are trying to protect women,”

This overused adage stems from the notion that women are helpless, and NEED a man by their side to complete them and make them whole. In fact, this could not be further away from the truth! This ridiculous excuse has also been etched onto our brains thanks to numerous Tamil movies. Every guy commenting seems to think they are a version of Ajith from Vedhalam, trying to protect this girl who so desperately needs guidance.
Dear self appointed heroes, women do not need protection, nor do we need providing for.
“She was asking for it,”

Do you honestly think that Rubashini woke up one morning and thought, “I wonder what it would feel like if I was cyberbullied by vulgar Indian lechers?”
Victim blaming is a lame excuse. You wouldn’t blame the owner if a car gets stolen. You wouldn’t blame the deceased in a murder. Then how in the world can anyone say this victim of cyber bullying asked for it?
Let’s get this straight, nobody and that means NOBODY who is a victim of cyberbullying or any other crime is or was ever ASKING FOR IT.
“So what if I commented, nobody cares!”

Yes, people do care. Her parents care. And while you are hiding behind your screen of hypocrisy, your actions have consequences. You drove this girl into depression with your hate and negativity, and caused her parents heartache. Nobody deserved to be spoken to like that.
“She should dress more respectably,”

Oh, when did you turn into Vijay’s character from Sivakasi? In the movie, Asin walks into a crowded marketplace dressed in shorts and a tank top, only to be harassed by a baddie. Vijay then saves the day before briefly reprimanding the lecher. He then confronts Asin in front of the crowd telling her that she shouldn’t be wearing a bra (her tank top) and underwear (her shorts) to a market. He basically said that if you’re dressed like this, you’re asking for it.
Quick question to all the men out there. Do you have absolutely no self control that a girl dressed in clothing of her choice is enough to arouse you to touch her without her consent? That is wrong on too many levels, and you know that.
“Boys will be boys, and they will comment that way,”

This inane, overused statement is guilty of perpetuating bad behaviour among males without putting a stop to it. The kid is naughty? Boys will be boys. A man stops his motorbike and stares lasciviously at a girl as she walks down the street? Boys will be boys. A guy commenting that a girl who posts a video of herself in shorts is a slut? Boys will be boys.
Related:  Parai: The Earliest Indian PercussionIn Kavan, Vijay Sethupathi utters a loathsome line when his girlfriend catches him kissing another girl. “A scorpion is known to sting, and a man is known to do things like this,” Is he indirectly saying that all men are imbeciles who cannot keep it in their pants?
This ‘trend’ of letting boys be boys needs to end. Discipline that kid. Ask the lecher “What are you looking at?” Report those offensive comments. Stop rationalizing atrocities by attributing it to the way a gender works. Bad male behaviour cannot be shrugged off as ‘fun that sometimes gets out of hand’. Men are not hardwired to be jerks. Call them out on it!
“We are trying to preserve our kalacharam,”

Wow, is your culture so fragile that it can be decimated with the widespread usage of off shoulder tops? At this juncture, it may be helpful to understand that cultures are constantly evolving, and adhering to one rule for all of eternity will never work in any society. Besides, if you are so interested in preserving your culture, how come we don’t see you doing anything for that purpose?
Rubashini DID NOT MAKE A MISTAKE. Making a Musical.ly was something she enjoyed doing, and there is no reason for her to be shamed for that. Her dressing is her perogative and she looked gorgeous. And yes, an Indian girl can dress in whatever she chooses to and take a video of it. That choice is entirely up to her.
The fact that some parties think she has brought this onto herself is proof that patriarchy  has creeped its way into the recesses of all our brains. Think of it this way, if a good looking guy posted a Musical.ly in his boxers, the comments would have been on the other end of the spectrum.
As a society, we ethnic Indians have grown terribly accustomed to the idea that the women are ‘the other’. When we think of race, it is black that is marked. When we think of sexual orientation, homosexuality is the other. It is so easy to poke and prod and say nasty things about the other, and to tell them how to live their lives. We easily forget that the ‘others’ are humans with rights too, and we need to respect that. We need to give due regard to the choices people make, and if it is something you disagree with, keep scrolling!
We are aware that the temerity some Indians possess extends beyond policing random Indian women’s dressing in the name of culture. We are also aware that not all men think and behave this way. Regardless, this is an issue that needs to be addressed.
Fellow Malaysian Indians, mind your own business lah. Surely you have better things to do than to comment and share a video of a girl doing a Musical.ly! If Tamil culture is so important to you, off shoulder tops and shorts should be the least of your worries at this point of time.
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Filed Under indian cultureIndiansMalaysian Indians


Jaanu Wins Best Actress

We are only a few days into 2019 and the gyms are still full with folks trying to achieve their #FitnessGoals. Some others are busy reaping the seeds they sowed in 2018, like the line of deserving actors and production teams that were recognised at the prestigious Vikatan Awards.
The Ananda Vikatan Cinema Awards or Vikatan Awards is an annual award ceremony by the Ananda Vikatan magazine in the Tamil film industry. Actress Trisha won the Best Actress award for her role as Jaanu in Prem Kumar’s 96, opposite Vijay Sethupathi, who played her high-school love interest Ram.

Trisha took it to Instagram to post a photo holding her golden trophy from Vikatan Awards.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BsSwSjVn6sc/
Vetrimaran’s Vada Chennai won big at the Vikatan Awards 2019. Here is the full list of winners:
Best Movie – Merku Thodarchi Malai
Best Actor – Dhanush for Vadachennai, Maari 2
Best Actress – Trisha for 96
Best Director – Mari Selvaraj for Pariyerum Perumal
Best Villain (Male) – Nana Patekar for Kaala
Best Villain (Female) – Varalaxmi Sarathkumar for Sandakozhi 2 and Sarkar
Best Comedy Actor (Male) –  Yogi Babu for Kolamavu Kokila and Pariyerum Perumal
Best Comedy Actor (Female) –  Revathi for Gulaebaghavali
Best Music Director – Santhosh Narayanan for Vada Chennai, Pariyerum Perumal and Kaala
Best Singer (Male) – Anthony Daasan for Sodakku Mela from Thaanaa Serndha Koottam
Best Singer (Female) –  Chinmayi for Kaathalae from 96
Best Child Artiste – Ditya Bhande for Lakshmi
Best Character Artiste (Male) – Ameer for Vada Chennai
Best Character Artiste (Female) – Easwari Rao for Vada Chennai
Best Debut Director –  Lenin Bharathi for Merku Thodarchi Malai
Related:  Thalapathy's "Leo" Charged With Police Complaint For Drug PropagandaBest Debut Actor (Male) –  Adithya Bhaskar for 96
Best Debut Actor (Female) – Raiza Wilson for  Pyaar Prema Kaadhal
Best Cinematographer – Nirav Shah for 2.0
Best Story – Mari Selvaraj for Pariyerum Perumal
Best Dialogue Writer – Pa. Ranjith, Makizhnan B, M. Aadhavan Dheetchanya for Kaala
Best Screenplay Writer – Vetrimaran for Vada Chennai
Best Art Director – Jacki for Vada Chennai
Best Editor – San Lokesh for Ratsasan
Best Lyricist – Karthik Netha for 96
Best Choreographer –  Jani Master for Gulaebaghavali
Best Stunt Choreographer –  Dhilip Subbarayan for Vada Chennai, Kaala
Best Makeup Artist – Banu A R, Abdul Razzaq, LECACY FX
Best Costume Designer  – Eka Lakhani
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Filed Under 96ananda Vikatan awardsDhanushTrishaTrisha KrishnanVijay SethupathiVikatan awardsVikatan awards 2019


“Exercise, Stay Busy And Don’t Enter Politics”; Amitabh To Rajinikanth!

During the Darbar trailer launch, Rajinikanth mentioned in his speech that, Amitabh Bachchan is his inspiration. When the Tamil superstar was asked if he looks up to anyone in the film industry, he said,
“I have said this many times. Amitabh Bachchan is my inspiration, not only in front of the camera, but off the camera also.”
Rajinikanth has stepped into Amitabh’s shoes in a number of Tamil remakes of Hindi blockbusters, including Thee (a remake of Deewar), Shankar Salim Simon (a remake of Amar Akbar Anthony), Billa (a remake of Don), Velaikaran (a remake of Namak Halaal) and Baasha (a remake of Hum). The two actors share a warm equation.

During the interaction, Rajinikanth also shared that Amitabh advised him against venturing into politics and said, “He told me, ‘Rajini, after 60, we should be very careful. You should do three things — exercise regularly; be busy, after getting up, get out of the house; and don’t enter politics.”
“Two things, I followed. The third, I couldn’t follow because of the circumstances,” he added.
In December 2017, Rajinikanth ended months of speculation and announced his entry into politics at Chennai’s Raghavendra Kalyana Mandapam. He also said that his party would contest all 234 seats in the next Tamil Nadu assembly elections.
Even after almost two years, Rajinikanth has not yet announced the name of his party or its flag. He has, however, laid the groundwork by consolidating all his fan clubs into the Rajini Makkal Mandram (Rajini People’s Forum).
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Filed Under Amitabh BachchandarbarRajinikanth


Vetrimaaran Will Be Joining Hands With Vijay For His Next Film!

Filmmaker Vetrimaaran, who is basking in the phenomenal success of Asuran, is most likely to team up with actor Vijay for a yet-untitled Tamil project soon. Vijay’s next film, which is tentatively dubbed Thalapathy 65, will be directed by Vetrimaaran.

Vetrimaaran has already narrated a story to Vijay and that the meeting ended on a positive note. If everything goes as planned, the duo might join hands for the first time for Thalapathy 65.
Meanwhile, Vijay is currently busy wrapping up his next film, tentatively titled Thalapathy 64, with Kaithi director Lokesh Kanagaraj. The film also stars Vijay Sethupathi, Arjun Das, Shanthanu Bhagyaraj and Malavika Mohanan in key roles.
It is rumoured that the film will feature Vijay in the role of a college professor and will have a college backdrop for most part of its story. It’ll be the first time Vijay and Vijay Sethupathi will be seen sharing screen space. The film may feature another leading lady. However, the makers are yet to reveal who has been signed to play the second heroine.
Vijay was last seen in Atlee-directed Bigil, in which he played dual roles. He was seen playing father and son roles and both the characters were well received by the audiences. Bigil, which also starred Jackie Shroff and Nayanthara, went on to mint over Rs 300 crore at the box office. It emerged as the highest grossing Tamil film of 2019.
Vetrimaaran, on the other hand, will next team up with actor-comedian Soori for a Tamil project which will be an adaptation of late poet-writer Na Muthukumar’s Pattampoochi Virpavan. This yet-untitled film will go on the floors from December. Vetrimaaran has also recently confirmed that he’s directed a segment in Netflix’s maiden Tamil production venture as part of an anthology. His portion will feature Sai Pallavi and Prakash Raj. Other segments of the anthology have been directed by Vignesh Shivn, Sudha Kongara and Gautham Vasudev Menon. Honour killing will be the theme of the anthology.
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Filed Under TamilvetrimaranVijay


The Real Story Behind SJK(T) Rawang’s International Dance Competition Victory

Our Tamil school pupils are no strangers to international achievements. Numerous teams from schools all over the nation have clinched titles in the field of sciences. SJK(T) Rawang however, aimed to tackle a different field. A team of 8 students from the school won the V International Folklore Festival dance competition in Saint-Petersburg, Russia. Their victory then led them to take part in the Grand Prix dance competition in Georgia, in which the team also clinched the first place!
Entering the dance competition was the brainchild of teacher Retha Nadarajah. “Our school headmistress Madam Kamala Kanesan, asked me to enlist our students into a competition. After hours of trawling the internet, I came across this dance competition in Russia, and being a fan of dance myself, I thought, why not?”
Retha sent in an application, and SJK(T) Rawang received an invitation to participate in the competition. Along with fellow teacher Uma Navalingam, they held auditions for the pupils, and selected 8 to be a part of their dance team.

The dance team consists of Standard 5 students Pavithana Muthuganesh, Taacaayani R Chandran, Selvanusiya Sri, Narmata Selva Ganesan, Tamil Chelvi Sasidaran, Tulashnie Prabakaran, Ishveenaa Williams Robert and Karthigeyan Samymuthu.
The SJK(T) Rawang team then brought in Sasi Kalimuthu of Millenium Arts Dancers to choreograph the pupils’ performance.
The challenge from Day 1: Financial constraints
The biggest and earliest challenge that Retha came face to face with was funding. “We needed money, and lots of it,” The funds were needed for the flights, participation fees, insurance, and other expenses.
The parents of the pupils collectively sponsored RM 32,000. The rest of the funds were acquired from various donors within the Malaysian Indian community. The school even threw a high tea fundraiser to generate the funds needed for the team to fly to Russia for the competition. The Rawang State Assemblyman, Chua Wei Kiat, and Selayang Member of Parliament, William Leong Jee Keen, also contributed towards the fund.
“Tamil school pupils are usually self sponsored at international competitions”

“While the achievements of our Tamil school pupils abroad are celebrated by the whole nation, people fail to realize that most of the time, these students are self sponsored,” Retha goes on to say that because these are private competitions, they cannot expect funding from the government. “The money is usually raised by the school or by the pupil’s parents. In our case, we are lucky that so many generous people stepped forward to support the team,”
After winning the first prize in Saint-Petersburg, the SJK(T) Rawang team was selected by the jury to perform at the Dance Grand Prix in Georgia. Once again, Retha and her team were faced with financial difficulties, in spite of the 50% discount given to the winners. Retha craftily recorded the now famous video that was circulated on social media platforms to raise the funds needed. Within a few days, they were good to go.
The SJK(T) Rawang team then traveled to Georgia and won the first prize for the 11-14 age group of the Dance Grand Prix.
“If I had enough funds, it wont be 8 students, it will easily be 28 or 38 students,” Retha tells us that there is so much talent among the students. “Many of them are so keen on dancing, but they just cannot afford to do so. They can’t stay back after classes, because they don’t have money to spare for food or additional transport,”
“We cannot keep asking the public for funds”

The SJK(T) Rawang dance troop has been invited to another dance competition in Mexico. This will be held sometime between November and March. “From the moment we land in Mexico, everything is covered. We only need to fork out the funds for our flight tickets,” According to Retha, the cost for one person’s flight ticket is RM 7,000. “Eleven of us will be going on this trip, 8 students and three teachers,”
The noble teacher, however, just cannot bring herself to ask the public for more funds. “I am at a loss right now. It is not right for me to keep asking our community for the funds.  The public has helped us twice, and I have been transparent with the expenses of both rounds. I know that if I make a request, they will oblige. But I don’t want to abuse their kindness,” says Retha.
It wasn’t a walk in the park
The SJK(T) Rawang team also won best costume at the V International Folklore Festival dance competition in Saint-Petersburg, Russia.
The 8 pupils of SJK(T) Rawang have done two long haul journeys and are seasoned travelers. Retha shares, “The kids have matured tremendously through our travels. This competition has instilled a confidence, and boosted their self esteem,”
She shares an anecdote with us, “In Saint-Petersburg, after checking into the hotel, the children looked out the window and started calling out to me, ‘Teacher, they’re throwing something from upstairs!'” Retha went to the window to see what the fuss was about before realizing that her pupils are witnessing snowfall for the first time. “They didn’t know it was snow! So I took them down to the hotel entrance and they had a gala time playing in the snow,”
But it wasn’t all fun and games, Retha tells us. “One of the pupils was vomitting throughout the flight to Russia, and we had to nurse them back to health before the performance,” The pupils worked very hard on practicing while they were there. Once they were abroad, they doubled their efforts, overcame jet lag and homesickness to win the coveted grand prize at both competitions.
Parents, encourage your kids’ passions

Retha also hopes that parents open up to the idea of encouraging their children’s passions. “In Georgia, I was approached by an American choreographer. He was amazed at the talent our pupils had, and he advised me to encourage them to pursue a higher education in the performing arts,”
Retha hopes that the doctor-lawyer-engineer obsession that our community has will end, and the younger generation will be able to pursue their passions and actually enjoy what they do for a living unlike many of us.
“I am not saying that academics isn’t important. But the same priority needs to be given to the child’s passions. And parents need to realize this as well,”
Enriching lives while bringing Tamil folk dance to the forefront

Retha is not only enriching these pupils’ lives with this experience, she is also bringing our traditional Tamil dance form to the forefront of the world. And yet, she refuses to succumb to praise, “There are many teachers like me, you would be surprised at the number of us. We want the pupils to excel in their studies AND pursue their passion. More often than not, it is hard to get a platform to do the latter,”
She only has this to say as we end our interview, “The public has been beyond generous for our last two trips, and the students have proven themselves. I assure you that SJK(T) Rawang will continue to make Malaysia proud for as long as we can,”
Retha and the students of SJK(T) Rawang are looking for corporate sponsors for their upcoming dance competition in Mexico. If you or someone you know would like to help out, please contact Retha at +6012 715 4032.
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Filed Under dance competitionRetha NadarajahSJK(T) Rawang


Ilaiyaraaja Will Be Composing Music For Vishal’s ‘Thupparivaalan 2’!

Mysskin and Vishal will reunite for the sequel to their highly successful Tamil crime thriller, Thupparivaalan. Not long ago, Mysskin met Vishal at Cappadocia in Turkey where he was shooting for Sundar C’s upcoming film, Action.
On Tuesday, it was announced that maestro Ilaiyaraaja will compose music for the film. Vishal and Mysskin met Ilaiyaraaja and handed over a cheque to officially welcome him on board the highly anticipated sequel.

On this wonderful Day as I enter into my 15th year in the Industry, I am Delighted to have #Ilaiyaraaja Sir onboard for composing the music for #Thupparivaalan2
My Career comes a full circle by having #Maestro composing music for my film for the first time….GB pic.twitter.com/6n9mRU7Vtg
— Vishal (@VishalKOfficial) September 10, 2019

In Thupparivaalan, Vishal played a detective called Kaniyan Poogundran, modeled after Sherlock Holmes. Actor Prasanna played his sidekick, a character very close to Sherlock’s partner Dr Watson.
Even before the film’s release, Vishal confirmed he will be reuniting with Mysskin for the sequel. Soon after its release, Thupparivaalan was panned by a section of critics and audience for being heavily inspired by Sherlock Holmes.
It has already been confirmed that Prasanna will return to play his character from the first part. The rest of the casting, however, is yet to be finalised for Thupparivaalan 2.
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Superstar Rajinikanth Attends Swearing-In Ceremony Of PM Narendra Modi

If there is one thing the BJP and PM Modi are used to is the swimming media attention and celebrities. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s swearing-in ceremony was no different.
PM Modi at the swearing-in ceremony
The swearing-in ceremony was held in the forecourt of the Rashtrapati Bhavan in the presence of 6,000 guests. An invitation was also extended to Superstar Rajinikanth to witness the historic moment.

Rajinikanth announced his entry into the political world in 2017 but is yet to contest in an election. He had earlier formed an organisation Rajini Makkal Mandram (RMM). Superstar Rajinikanth was accompanied by his wife Latha and posed for photos with other film stars such as Kangana Ranaut, Sushant Singh Rajput, Aditya Roy Kapoor, Rajkumar Hirani, Anupam Kher, Vivek Oberoi and Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra. Rajinikanth said, “In India after Jawahar Lal Nehru and Rajiv Gandhi, Modi is now a charismatic leader. The election victory is a victory for Modi.”
https://www.instagram.com/p/ByFpJHGBaHl/
The 2019 Lok Sabha elections was victorious for the BJP with its highest tally ever at 303 seats.

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Filed Under Aditya Roy KapoorAnupam KherKangana RanautLok Sabhanarendra modiPrime Minister Narendra ModiRajinikanthRajkumar Hiranisuperstar rajinikanthSushant Singh RajputVivek Oberoi


Unilever Drops ‘Fair’ From Fair & Lovely

Unilever will change the name of its Fair & Lovely skin lightening cream, one of India’s most popular skincare products, becoming the latest multinational to alter product ranges under pressure over racial stereotyping.
The move to rebrand the 45-year-old product follows a decision by rival Johnson & Johnson last week to stop selling skin-lightening lotions as part of its Neutrogena and Clean & Clear ranges.
Unilever, one of the world’s largest consumer goods companies, said on Thursday that it would unveil a new brand name for Fair & Lovely “in the next few months”. Fair & Lovely makes more than $500 million (RM 2 billion) a year for the company in India alone.
“We recognise that the use of the words ‘fair’, ‘white’ and ‘light’ suggest a singular ideal of beauty that we don’t think is right, and we want to address this,” said Sunny Jain, president of Unilever’s beauty and personal care division.

Hindustan Unilever acknowledged in its statement on Thursday that it had previously played up “the benefits of fairness, whitening and skin lightening” while marketing its products.

“The brand is committed to celebrating all skin types. We are making our skincare portfolio more inclusive and want to lead the celebration of a more diverse portrayal of beauty. In 2019, we removed the cameo with two faces and the shade guides from the packaging of Fair & Lovely and the brand communication progressed from fairness to glow which is a more inclusive measure of healthy skin,” said Sanjiv Mehta head of India’s Hindustan Unilever, said in a statement.
“We are making our skincare portfolio more inclusive and want to lead the celebration of a more diverse portrayal of beauty,” Mehta said.
Unilever said the brand’s advertising had been changing since 2014 to try to disassociate lighter skin with personal achievement and self-worth, and it had disavowed older marketing campaigns that were more explicit in doing so.

Skin-lightening creams in India have long been endorsed by major actors, such as Tammanaah and Suriya.

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Filed Under Drops Fair wordFair & LovelyPresident Beauty & Personal CareSanjiv MehtaSunny Jain


The Much Awaited Soorarai Pottru’s Trailer, A Biopic On Air Deccan’s G.R Gopinath Set To Thrill You

Soorarai Pottru which means Praise the brave is an upcoming Tamil film starring Suriya, Aparna Balamurali, Mohan Babu, Paresh Rawal, Urvashi, Karunas and other supporting characters.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fa_DIwRsa9oVideo can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: Soorarai Pottru – Official Trailer | Suriya, Aparna | Sudha Kongara|GV Prakash|Amazon Original Movie (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fa_DIwRsa9o)

This movie is much-anticipated by Suriya’s fans and many have been patiently waiting for its release date and updates. Well, stay tuned with your popcorn ready, the team has launched the trailer for your ultimate viewing pleasure. It is confirmed that this movie will be making a world premier on 12th November, on Amazon Prime Video.
This movie depicts a storyline revolving a classic tale based on the book ‘Simply Fly’, a biopic of India’s Air Deccan founder, G.R Gopinath. Moreover, it was discovered that some events were influenced by his life.
The film is produced by Suriya’s 2D Entertainment and co-produced by Guneet Monga’s Sikhya Entertainment. The movie, directed by Sudha Kongara, was originally scheduled to be premiered on Amazon Prime Video on 30th October, but on Twitter, the actor posted that the film’s new release date will soon be confirmed.
The theatrical release of the film was postponed several times due to post-production delays and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Although the release of the movie was delayed, the team managed to please waiting fans with several songs, including Veyyon Sili, Mannurunda, Kaatu Payale and Aagasam composed by G. V. Prakash Kumar, working for the first time with Suriya.
Hence, to quote Suriya, lets fasten our seatbelts and get ready for Soorarai Pottru’s take off on 12th November! Bon Voyage!
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Filed Under Amazon Prime Videosoorarai pottrusuryaTrailer


Jaykishen’s Yennul Irunthaval: The Housemate Short Film Will Leave You Horror-struck

If you’re a fan of films like Conjuring and Lights Out, this short film may be in your wheelhouse!
A Jaykishen film aptly titled Yennul Irunthaval : The Housemate, seems like the best thing to watch and get all spooky at night. Penned by the director himself, the short film was produced by Gayathri Kanamma. Santhia Tanabalan who plays the lead role alongside Gayathri, makes our pulse-shred throughout the 9 minutes 50 seconds short film.
This short film gets straight to the point in building fear and terror. A young girl hears strange sounds coming from her housemate’s room. Honestly, there’s nothing quite like creaky and creepy sounds to trip you up, especially if you’re alone at home and they’re coming from another room.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jay Kishen (@jay_kishen)

Based on a statement by the Malaysian National Film Development Corporation (Finas), the entire production team adhered to the SOP’s very well.
With the sound effects that quickly races your heartbeat while making you jump off your sofa, this short horror really does the trick on 9to5 Film YouTube channel.

“Let’s welcome Kanmani to her new home”

For extra spooks, turn off your lights and watch it alone. I dare you.

https://youtu.be/twL1MLRwNC8Video can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: Yennul Irunthaval : The Housemate | Jaykishen | Malaysia Tamil Shortfilm (https://youtu.be/twL1MLRwNC8)

Kudos to the entire cast and crew who have left the audience horror-struck:
Music by: Fairoz Ismail
Cinematographer: Satyen
DI,Visual Effects& Edited: Sathieswaran
Design & Subtitles: Kuhaneshwaran Vijayan
Makeup: Santhia Thanabalan
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Filed Under Gayathri KannamaJaykishenMalaysian National Film Development Corporation (Finas)Santhia Tanabalanshort horror filmYennul Irunthaval : The Housemate


Vijay’s 63rd Movie Will be Better than Theri and Mersal Says Atlee

Later this year, Vijay will be starring in his 62nd movie, Sarkar, helmed by AR Murugadoss. Their collaboration has already delivered two hits in Thuppakki (2012) and Kaththi (2014). However, neither of those films turned out to be as big a hit as Vijay’s most recent release, Mersal, directed by Atlee.

Mersal broke the bank worldwide and successfully etched its name in the prestigious 200 crore club, grossing approximately Rs 251 crore (US$ 37 million) worldwide. As of now, there are only six other Tamil films that have made more than Rs 200 crores — Baahubali: The Beginning, Baahubali: The Conclusion, Enthiran, Kabali, I and Vishwaroopam.
However, Atlee who will be reuniting with Vijay for Thalapathy 63, says that the film will be even bigger than Mersal and Theri (Atlee’s first collab with Vijay) in terms of mass appeal. As reported by entertainment industry tracker Ramesh Bala, Atlee had this to say:
“#Thalapathy63 will be better than #Theri and #Mersal in-terms of Mass Appeal.. I have got a good lead.. Developing it right now, into a bigger movie..”

"#Thalapathy63 will be better than #Theri and #Mersal in-terms of Mass Appeal.. I have got a good lead.. Developing it right now, into a bigger movie.." : @Atlee_dir
— Ramesh Bala (@rameshlaus) August 15, 2018

But for now, we await Sarkar. Will the pairing of AR Murugadoss and Vijay deliver three hits in a row, not just financially, but critically as well? We shall find out later this year. Sarkar is set to hit the big screens this Deepavali.
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Filed Under MersalSarkarThalapathy 63


Coronavirus: The Silent Killer Airs On Discovery Channel Tonight

Malaysia will begin its first ever restricted movement order due to a pandemic tomorrow thanks to the novel coronavirus Covid-19.
The country has activated its pandemic preparedness plan with a rapid RT-PCR (reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction) test on patients and contacts developed, used and distributed to several government hospitals and medical laboratories while stricter management protocols have been introduced.

Will all these measures be effective in stopping the spread of the virus? To shed some light on the grave issue that has infected over 150,000 people all over the world, Discovery Channel is set to air a new special, ‘Coronavirus: The Silent Killer’ tonight.

Speaking to industry experts and medical specialists, the documentary delves into the science behind the virus that has taken the world by storm. As the number of infected people climbs each day, viewers will be given an in-depth look at how the virus spreads and what different countries have done in response.

‘Coronavirus: The Silent Killer’ is the first of a series of virus-related shows that will air on Discovery Channel, taking a deep dive into COVID-19 and other infectious viruses such as SARS and AIDS.

Coronavirus: The Silent Killer premieres on 17 March, 10.50 pm on Discovery Channel (Astro Channel 551/ 571).

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook or Telegram for more updates and breaking news. Related:  Dr Vinod Balasubramaniam Receives 'UniteHealth's COVID-19 Influencers Award'
Filed Under coronaviruscovid-19discovery channeldocumentary


Photographer Suthan Viran Releases a Series of Videos to Help Mobile Photographers

Are you a mobile photographer who enjoys taking pictures, but always fall short when it comes to editing them?
Then you need to check out professional photographer Suthan Viran’s profile. The photographer recently released a series of videos with useful guidelines on basic photo editing.
Suthan runs Pixura Photography, the company that has immortalised many local and international celebrities through various campaigns.
Check out the photographer’s informational how to videos here.

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Thanks for the tips, Suthan!
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Filed Under Smartphone editingSuthan ViranTutorial on Editing Pictures


Rana Daggubati Is ENGAGED To Miheeka Bajaj!

Rana Daggubati is now engaged. He introduced his fiancé, Miheeka Bajaj, to social media after she said yes to his proposal. He shared a smiling photo of themselves with the caption, “She said yes (sic).”

And she said Yes :) ❤ pic.twitter.com/iu1GZxhTeN
— Rana Daggubati (@RanaDaggubati) May 12, 2020

As soon as he posted the photo, so many of his industry colleagues, friends and fans congratulated him. Shruti Haasan, Samantha Akkineni and Hansika are some of the celebrities who wished him on social media.
Miheeka Bajaj is the founder of an event management company, Dew Drop Design Studio. Miheeka, who is based in Mumbai, is born and brought up in Hyderabad. Rana Daggubati and Miheeka Bajaj’s families might plan a wedding in the future, once the lockdown is lifted.
On the work front, Rana is waiting to resume the shoot of his upcoming film, Viraata Parvam, directed by Venu Udugula. His film, Kaadan (Aaranya in Telugu), was scheduled to release on April 2. It has now been postponed due to the lockdown.
News Credit: India Today
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Filed Under celebritymiheeka bajajrana dagubatitelugu


HABIB’s Jewellery Store Brings You Dazzling Gemstone Collection This October

HABIB is an internationally renowned jewellery brand with a history of more than 60 years in design and jewellery making. It was developed by the late Datuk Haji Habib Mohamed Abdul Latif in 1958.
After taking charge of his late father’s position, Datuk Meer Sadik Habib led the group HABIB spread its wings to some brands including Hearts On Fire, Pandora from Denmark, Ice-Watch from Belgium; Les Georgettes by Altesse; and Stephen Webster.
In conjunction with its Gem Festival Celebration, Homegrown HABIB celebrates October with a kaleidoscopic world of gemstones throughout the month at all its participating outlets.
The Gem Festival is indeed a medium for customers to experience these magnificent gemstones that have very special properties and some of them come in many other shades of colour that has plenty of elegance and impeccable clarity. Most notably, customers also come over to learn more about their birthstone and exciting stories.
1.9 carat orange sapphire, green tsavorite and diamond pendant, sets with 18k yellow gold chain.
During the celebration, Meer Sadik said  “At HABIB, we strive to create the best jewellery for our customers; using only the best quality of gemstones and materials, with the highest standards of craftsmanship, designs that are exciting and beautiful that fit our customers for any occasion, be it a wedding, anniversary or simply, as a gift for a loved one.”
5.6 crt and 4.58 crt green and pink tourmaline and diamond ring set in 18k white gold
Everyone has unique precious gems devoted to them. From a shimmering garnet for January to a sleek blue turquoise for December, these jewelleries are the ideal gift for many occasions and events. Gemstone rings are also becoming a common option for marriage and engagement.
 HABIB is a trend-setter jewellery choice and Malaysia’s most preferred jewellery store, welcoming all Malaysians from various backgrounds, making jewellery accessible to them, so that everyone can own something from HABIB.
With over 1000 new jewellery designs available at HABIB stores offering amazing prices, this is deal unlike any other! While many have the impression that precious gems are valued at high price points, HABIB’s beautiful ring with gemstones crafted in 18k white gold is priced at RM365.
Throughout the festival, customers are welcomed to all HABIB stores to experience a special treat for purchasers with RM8000 and above on any diamond or jewellery and will be eligible for a free Ice Watch from the exclusive Ice Steel collection. HABIB also offers discounts of up to 70% on gemstone coloured jewellery and diamonds from 1st to 31st October 2020.
Check out a showcase of the very few beautiful jewels available at the Gem Festival;
Emerald, tourmaline, garnet and diamond necklace (75.24g)

Tourmaline and diamond ring set in 18k white gold (10.09g)
Ruby and diamond bracelet set in 18k white goldSapphire and diamond bracelet set in 18k white gold
Don’t miss this magnificent opportunity to get your favourite gemstone jewellries in any HABIB store outlets before 31st October 2020. For more information, visit HABIB’s page here; and also follow them on Instagram and Facebook!
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Filed Under Datuk Meer Sadik Habibgem festival 2020gem jewellerygemstoneHABIB gem festival


WATCH: Neeyum Naanum Anbe Music Video From Imaikkaa Nodigal

Ajay Gnanamuthu’s Imaikkaa Nodigal is set to be wide released in Malaysian cinemas tomorrow, on the 31st of August. To hype up the film ahead of its release, the marketing team dropped a music video from the movie. The musical score and songs featured in the film are composed by Hiphop Tamizha.

Imaikkaa Nodigal stars Atharvaa, Rashi Khanna, Nayanthara and Anurag Kashyap in important roles. The film’s music is done by Hiphop Tamizha, with Vijay Sethupathi reportedly making a guest appearance only. While it is still unclear what exactly the plot of the movie is going to be, from the trailer we can deduce that it will be a crime-thriller of sorts, with romance elements in it.
Check out the trailer below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q0QoCgbwPjsVideo can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: Imaikkaa Nodigal Official Trailer | Atharvaa, Nayanthara, Anurag Kashyap | Hiphop Tamizha (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q0QoCgbwPjs)

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Filed Under Imaikka Nodigal


EXCLUSIVE: Dr Vanajah Siva, the Angkasawan Finalist Who Never Stopped Reaching for the Stars

“Why wouldn’t anyone want to be an astronaut?” she asked, incredulously. “It is the coolest job in the world!”
Dr Vanajah Siva Subramaniam made Malaysian history more than a decade ago. She was one of the finalists in the Angkasawan program, Malaysia’s search for our first astronaut. Vanajah was the only woman who made it to the final four.

Currently working in the field of academia in Sweden, we had an incredible phone conversation with Vanajah, where she dissects her journey in the Angkasawan program and the life she’s created for herself after.
This is Vanajah’s account as told to the Varnam team.
Angkasawan
You know, it was unthinkable that we would have something like the Angkasawan program in Malaysia 13 years ago. The Malaysian government were going to pick the first Malaysian astronaut, who would visit the the International Space Station on board Soyuz TMA-11.
It was announced that someone from the public would be chosen, anybody in Malaysia could apply as long as you were a degree holder who was over 21. Over 11,000 Malaysians tried their hand at it. I didn’t hesitate either. At the time, I was working in a manufacturing company in Klang as an engineer.
From left, Faiz Kamaludin, Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor, Faiz Khaleed and Vanajah.
I was shortlisted for the Angkasawan program and as you probably know, I made it to the final four. Apart from me, it was dentist Faiz Khaleed, doctor Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor and pilot Mohammed Faiz Kamaludin, who is one of my close friends, even today.
Russia
They put us through the ringer with all the tests in Malaysia. It was one after another. Towards the end of the program, the four of us were flown to Russia.
When we arrived, we were met with doctors in the Russian Space Agency, who needed to attest that we were fit to be astronauts. We went through all the tests once again in Russia, with a few extra ones. We did the motion sickness test and another one where they made us sit inside a structure similar to a large Coke can, strapped us to a chair and spun it. Honestly, it was like sitting on an electric chair. The centrifuge with 9G and 8G were the hardest.

After all the tests, they did an evaluation. And we were invited back for two days. You see, their procedure was that each person tested has to be there in person to hear the results.
It’s so vivid in my memory. My name was called and I walked into the room. All eyes were on me. They said, “After doing all these tests, we have found that you are qualified to be an astronaut,” I tell you, that was the most surreal moment in my life!
Heartbroken
The final two had to be chosen out of the four of us, and you know what happened next.
Up to this day, no person or event has broken my heart as much as my country did, with that choice. The worst part was, they justified the decision to not choose me so many levels, it crushed me. We all knew the reason I wasn’t chosen.
Up to this day, no person has ever broken my heart as much as my country did,
The devastation left me home-bound for weeks. One fine day, I pulled myself out of the house to attend a function, and to my surprise, everyone was worshiping me. I had no idea what I had done. Up until then, I thought that I was a failure. It was only then that I realised the effect I had on our country. Slowly, I came out of it.

Honestly, the Indian community in Malaysia picked me up. I began giving talks in school, without charging a fee. I just drove to where I was invited and spoke to the young people who would listen to me. Throughout the entire ordeal, my ex, Mohan, my family and friends were my pillars of support.
the Indian community in Malaysia picked me up
Money
I had applied to do my masters in Sweden the previous year, but I could not accept the offer due to the Angkasawan program. Once it was all over, I reapplied and was accepted.
But to get to Sweden, I needed about US$ 24,000 to get a residential permit to begin my studies, it was part of their regulations, you see.
Here I was, completely broke and needing this large sum of money to start the next chapter of my life. I asked a few people if they could help me, only to be turned down. And in case you are wondering, no, I was not compensated for the Angkasawan program.
in case you are wondering, no, I was not compensated for the Angkasawan program.
During the program, however, Captain Faiz and I were invited to Kazakhstan for an event organised by MEASAT Satellite Systems Sdn Bhd. On the plane, I met Ralph Marshall, one of the bigwigs in the company. He greeted Faiz and I and in the course of the conversation, I told him that I’m waiting for my masters application to Sweden to come through. He  said, “Keep me posted,”
Once I received my acceptance letter, I told my friend in MEASAT to pass the message on to Ralph. MEASAT then awarded me with a scholarship to pursue my Masters on condition that I am bonded for three years.
Up until today, I have only had that short conversation with Ralph Marshall, but he and Anantha Krishnan have been instrumental in me being here today. I will be forever grateful to them.
Oh, Chalmers!
So I completed my Masters in Industrial Engineering in Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg, Sweden. It is the second largest city in Sweden, but still smaller than Kulim!
Those were the best two years of my life. I made some incredible friends there, and until today, we remain close. I fell in love with Chalmers, I fell in love with Gothenburg, and I fell in love with a Swede. In that order! (laughs)

PhD
I returned in 2009 and did my thesis with MEASAT, but my heart was in Sweden. So I applied for a PhD in the same university. I was in a long distance relationship at the time, and my partner then, Jesper, told me to move to Sweden while waiting. My response? “I’m never moving for a man. No way!” I refused to be dependent on someone as I was, and still am, taking care of my parents.
I refused to be dependent on someone as I was, and still am, taking care of my parents.
The following year, I was accepted into the PhD program. I resigned and had to pay 75% of the scholarship, which was a lot of money that I didn’t have. So I went to three banks, got three loans to pay it off. Thankfully, the PhD program in Sweden is for 5 years, and it is considered an employment, the candidates get paid. That way, I could take care of myself, my parents and my loans.
Related:  Kuala Lumpur: International MSME B2B Meet Summit Organized by World Tamil Chamber of Commerce
After completing my PhD, I landed a job in Dublin, Ireland, where I worked for 15 months in Trinity College. At the end of 2017 I was offered a job in the School of Engineering of Jönköping University, in Sweden, where I work now as an Assistant Professor, my department is called Supply Chain & Operations Management.
And now
Right now, I am the Program Manager for the 3-year Bachelors program called Sustainable Supply Chain Management, in which I teach two courses in Jönköping University. They are Research Methods & Communication and Quality Management & Engineering. I also teach in the Masters program and I supervise and examine theses.
The research project that I am involved in pertains to automated quality inspection in a manufacturing industry. Artificial intelligence researchers perform machine learning to teach the program to detect quality defects in a production line through capturing photos in cameras installed in the process.
This replaces the human inspection process with a machine. My part is to investigate how such a transformation affects the employees. I also study the effects of automation on social sustainability.
My PhD and research is geared towards ensuring we have a planet to exist on in the future by studying sustainability.
My teaching and research are very much tied up to sustainable development. They contribute to practices which minimizes impacts on the environment. My PhD and research is geared towards ensuring we have a planet to exist on in the future by studying sustainability.
I am also in the Management Team in my department, along with 3 middle aged white men. When it comes to fulfilling quotas, I am quite the catch; brown, female, middle aged, single, a PhD holder. (laughs)
#mylifeisawesome
It was a crazy journey, but I am extremely grateful for all of it. The hashtags #Ilovemylife and #mylifeisawesome are always on my social media because it really is. I do what I want, when I want. This is the reason I’m single. I’ve never wanted a husband, I don’t need a boyfriend any longer, I don’t like kids, cats or dogs. Everyone who knows me knows that.
I’ve never wanted a husband, I don’t need a boyfriend any longer, I don’t like kids, cats and dogs.
I absolutely love my life. Every birthday, I celebrate it in a new city. I love my birthdays and traveling is my passion, so this is a gift to myself. For my recent 49th birthday, I was in Florence, Italy.
The hilarious part is, every year, when I return to Malaysia to visit my family and friends, they only have one nuisance question for me, “Eppo kalyanam pannere? (When are you getting married?)”
Nobody is interested in how I am shaping the minds of future engineers and leaders of this world, but they continue to harass me on how many children I can bring in to this already over-populated unsustainable world that I am trying to save!

Marriage
I believe marriage isn’t for everyone, nor is having kids. It is definitely not for me. Those who aspire to marry and start a family should do so, but not on the basis that it is a necessity. Certainly, not for the sake of family or society.
I hope that parents raise their daughters well enough to let them make that decision for themselves when the time comes. No one should be pressured into a marriage, be it a man or a woman!
No one should be pressured into a marriage, be it a man or a woman!
Women
It is sad that in our Malaysian Indian culture, we’ve been brought up in a way that amplifies the oppression of women by men and society. It hits a new low because women are often meaner to women than men are to women.
My mother has the same spirit as me, if she was left alone, she would have achieved a lot in life. Growing up, my dad would always tell her, “Don’t ask my daughter to go into the kitchen, I’m not raising my daughter to work in someones kitchen. I want her to be independent,” My mum will say, “What are you talking about, shes a girl!” So I believe that we are experiencing more sexism from our own kind. If it wasn’t for my dad, I wouldn’t be where I am now.

We need to create that bond among women first, it doesn’t matter which generation we come from, we need to pull each other up not push each other down. When one of us does get a place in the boys club, that woman can support another and bring her in. Not shy away from that because she’s afraid people will think she’s biased.
When one of us does get a place in the boys club, that woman can support another and bring her in.
Forget being labelled biased. Be bias. Men have been biased their whole life. I think it’s time we women become biased too.
Goals
I’m very goal oriented. Being in academia has helped me grow and learn new things every day. I want to go all the way to become a full professor. My aim is to do this before I turn 60. You know, it takes many steps a long time to get promoted in academia. I need to do a lot of things today to accomplish this goal of mine.
Without goals, I feel like not doing enough with my life. That’s how I made the final four of the Angkasawan program, completed my masters and PhD. I visualised it and worked towards it.
Having goals is fantastic, but if you don’t plan and then execute it, the goal will remain a dream!

Vanajah may not have been launched into space as the first Angkasawan. But her strength and grit to follow her dreams is out of this world. Having made a name for herself in the Swedish world of academia, this Malaysian never stopped reaching for the stars. She’s already one.
Nothing makes us happier than seeing her live her best life. Onwards and upwards, Vanajah!
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Filed Under angkasawanmalaysian indianmalaysians abroadprofessorswedenvanajahvanajah siva subramaniam


BREAKING: SPB & Ilayaraja Are Reunited!

The Tamil Indian film industry was torn in two directions when musical maestros Ilaiyaraaja and S.P. Balasubrahmanyam (SPB) were caught in a messy situation. SPB was served a legal notice from Ilaiyaraaja’s attorney, asking him not to perform Ilayaraja’s compositions for copyright concerns.

Since the early ’60s, SPB supported Ilayaraja and his brothers through their music career. SPB who has a staggering achievement of 40,000 songs in a career span of over 50 years has worked with Ilayaraja to create some of the most evergreen tunes such as Unna Nenache Pattu Padichen from Apoorva Sagodharargal and Mandram Vantha Thendralukku in Mouna Ragam. The copyright debacle caused a huge stir up in the industry as singers would have to pay huge financial penalties if the broke the copyright law.

The legal spat between the duo started in 2016 and singers were not allowed to sing any of Ilayaraja’s composition for fear of breaching the Copyright Amendment Act, 2012. Although SPB cleared the air by saying that the two are still friends, there was no denying that the clash of the titans tore the industry in different directions.
In a turn of events, we found a video posted by SPB Charan, singer, producer and son of SPB, showing Ilaiyaraaja and S.P. Balasubrahmanyam working together in what seems to look like a studio. Charan captioned the video by saying, “And this happens. #spb#illayaraja“.

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A post shared by S. P. Charan/Producer/Director (@spbcharan)

Fans started cheering the reunion of the maestros in the comment sections with many positive comments.

It is still unclear what the duo are teamed up for but we are on the look for new music happening soon.
Watch this space.
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook or Telegram for more updates and breaking news. Related:  Director Pa. Ranjith on how Ilayaraja's Music Influences his Art
Filed Under IlayarajaSP BalasubrahmanyamSPB


Festive Tragedy: Boy Accidentally Stabbed By His Cousin On Deepavali Eve, Dies Not Too Long After

Being naughty and mischievous is all fun until it turns into a tragedy due to mere carelessness. A 7-year-old boy lost his life when his 11-year-old old cousin accidently stabbed him right through his chest when he ran into her.
The unexpected incident came as a huge shock to the parents and family members of the young boy, an unfortunate incident that was done unintentionally by the cousin, resulting in the death of their son.
SAYS
The accident occurred at the cousin’s house in Kampung Koh, in Sitiawan, Perak.
Both families were busy prepping for Deepavali when the incident occurred at 10.20pm during which the girl had intended to use the knife to cut a rope outside the house that led to this unforeseen devastating event.
New Straits Times (NST)
According to the boy’s uncle D.Mathialagan,43, he was running around from his house to his cousin’s house next door and was accidently stabbed in the chest after he ran into the girl intending to hug her while she was at the front door holding the knife.
. There was blood everywhere. We took him to the Seri Manjung Hospital where he was pronounced dead,” the uncle said when met at the Forensic Department of the Raja Permaisuri Bainun Hospital (HRPB) in Ipoh earlier today, 15 November
The uncle said that his nephew’s desire to have mutton curry before the tragedy struck will haunt him always.

The devastated father of the boy was unable to hold himself together. “I told him that he could only taste it the next day as it was the main dish for Deepavali. We didn’t expect that he would be gone so soon,” he told New Straits Times.
New Straits Times (NST)

Kids having fun are a given during all major celebrations in the country. It is said that, festivities are truly enjoyed by children.
Visiting their extended families, playing firecrackers with their cousins, having a good time just being kids, receiving presents and enjoying cookies and yummy food is all part of the occasion.
However, parents also have a responsibility to always keep an eye on their children, making sure that they are always safe. We hope the family will be comforted after witnessing and experiencing such harsh tragedy on the eve of Deepavali.
Source: SAYS
Pic Credit: SAYS & New Straits Times (NST)
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Filed Under boy stabbed by sisterdeepavali deathyoung boy dies stabbed by cousin sister


9 Reasons You Have NO SAY in What a Woman Chooses to Wear

Cyberbullying has become a hot topic among the members of our community off late. One spoke in the wheel of cyberbullying, especially in the Malaysian Indian context, is slut-shaming.
This is most commonly seen in people, often men, who feel the burning desire to comment and humiliate a woman based on what she wears, just because she chooses to bare some skin.
Source: Medium
We’ve complied 9 reasons why NOBODY has a say in what women wear.
It is NONE of your business
This is the basic rationale why nobody should comment on what someone else is wearing. How someone chooses to clothe themselves does not concern you. It is none of your business, plain and simple
It is a crime
When did commenting on how sexy a lady looks become a crime, you ask? If you make her offended or uncomfortable, it is indeed sexual harassment.
Sexual harassment is any form of unwelcome sexual behaviour that’s offensive, humiliating or intimidating. This includes saying things like “Wow,” or “Yemmadi!” as a stranger walks past you. That’s right, singing that Tamil song as she walks past you doesn’t make you a Dulquer Salman from OK Kanmani. You are making someone else feel very uncomfortable by your behaviour. That is a crime.
singing that Tamil song as she walks past you doesn’t make you a Dulquer Salman from OK Kanmani. You are making someone feel very uncomfortable by your behaviour. That is a crime.
You may be making your friends laugh, but you are making that stranger very uncomfortable, humiliated and offended by your actions.
Rape is not caused by clothing
Last week, many Malaysian Indian men were vocal about women’s clothing causing rape. “You dress a certain way because you like to do so. But what if a psycho sees you dressed that way, and then goes on to rape someone else?” one Malaysian Indian man questions.
This misogynist doesn’t realise that he has answered his own question. The fact that someone chooses to violate another human being – THAT is the crime. Not a crop top and shorts.
The fact that someone chooses to violate another human being – that is the crime. not a crop top and shorts.
Not the girl on TikTok who is dancing in a saree and bra. Rape is ALWAYS caused by the rapist, not clothing, not what-was-she-doing-in-that-back-alley, not alcohol, nor any other reason.
You are not a culture guardian
Many Malaysian Indian people, again, mostly men, think that they have been bestowed the title of Ultimate Tamil and Hindu Culture Guardian by the powers that rule the universe.
Commenting on someone’s outfit, making them feel small and unworthy, because you think that you’re protecting your ‘culture’ is rubbish.
Is your culture so brittle that it relies on how much of a woman’s skin shows when she dresses up?
There is so much more to culture than a woman’s dressing. The only culture you are protecting by slut shaming women who choose to dress a certain way is rape culture and misogyny.
It is their body, she can think for herself
Many men often think that a woman needs to be guided. She needs to be taught to do even the most basic things, such as dressing.
We blame Padaiyappa for this. It is probably one of the earliest evidences of mansplaining that became so popular over the years. Rajinikanth, a figure worshipped by Tamil movie viewers across the globe said this unfortunate line, “Pombalai na.. porumai venum, kovapada koodadhu, adakkam venum, avasarapada koodadhu…”
Rajinikanth goes on to talk about all the things a women should be, conveniently forgetting that he is not a woman himself. How then, would he know what being a woman is about? By the sheer quality of being a man?
Well, you’ll be slightly disappointed to hear that women are able to think for ourselves.
Well, you’ll be slightly disappointed to hear that women are able to think for ourselves. There really is no need for guidance from another gender on how we should dress, behave, talk and do our jobs. If you’re still confused, Google the term mansplaining.
Not everything women do revolves around men
Another select group of people often think that EVERYTHING a woman does revolves around a man. Like many of the points in this article, we think this is reinforced by the thousands of Tamil films that portray the women as mere plot devices in a man’s life.
99% of the time, women wear whatever we want to, for ourselves. Not for anyone else. As if a man would know the difference between Ruby Woo and Smoked Almond.
As if a man would know the difference between Ruby Woo and Smoked Almond.
Women don’t need reminders that we are living in Malaysia/Japan/Tunisia
While it is important to dress according to the weather of the country one is living in, most sane women are acutely aware of their geographical location and the corresponding weather. And hence, will dress accordingly.
Saying things like, “Don’t forget, you’re living in Malaysia,” will only make YOU look stupid for stating the obvious.
Being Tamil/Indian/Hindu doesn’t mean you cannot wear shorts
There is no rule in any ancient Indian scripture that states “Women should never wear shorts,”
However, many of the above said culture guardians seem to be under the impression that this statement exists. For them, this rule extends to off shoulder and spaghetti strap tank tops too.
Imagine their horror when they hear that Indian women didn’t even don saree blouses in the past. During the Victorian era, most women did not wear blouses under their saris – they wore it bare-breasted. What do you do now, culture guardians?
A woman doesn’t need protecting, she needs to be respected
If you understand this one point, you don’t even need to read the rest. A woman does not need your protection, unless she asks for it. If you don’t know her, there is no need to impart advice like this, no matter what any Tamil film hero says.
Of course, it is important to respect a woman. Respect a woman because she is a person, a human being. Not because she is a man’s sister or daughter.
Forget about women being someone’s mother, sister, aunty and grandma. Why does even respect for a woman have to centre around men?
Respect a woman because she is a person, a human being. Not because she is a man’s sister or daughter.
Respecting someone will eliminate the need to degrade them. Respecting someone will put consent above every other act. And it won’t even matter how they are dressed.
When you are ready to look at women as human beings, and not another species, perhaps then we can take a step forward as a community to slowly decimate cyberbullying.
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Jr NTR Rejects The Offer To Play His Grandfather In Jayalalithaa’s Biopic, Thalaivi!

Actor Jr NTR, according to multiple reports, is said to have declined the offer to play his grandfather Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao (NTR) in upcoming Jayalalithaa biopic Thalaivi.

Jayalalithaa and NTR had worked together in many films. The makers of Thalaivi, which stars Kangana Ranaut as Jayalalithaa, approached Jr NTR with the offer to play his grandfather but the actor politely declined.

Jr NTR has said on several occasions that he will never be able to play his grandfather on screen. In the past, he had said it would be impossible for him to pull off the role as it’s very tough to replicate the veteran’s aura and charisma.
Although he has paid tributes to his grandfather briefly in several of his films over the years, he believes the idea of slipping into his shoes for a full-length role would be very challenging.
Thalaivi also sees Arvind Swami as former Tamil Nadu chief minister and legendary actor MG Ramachandran (MGR).
Kangana, who was last seen in Judgmental Hai Kya, spent close to six months on prepping for this project. She underwent Bharatanatyam classes, learnt Tamil and even spent hours in the prosthetic make up sessions.
Director AL Vijay, who is helming Thalaivi had said in an interview that Kangana was apt choice for the titular character. The project was announced along with its title and first look poster on February 25, on the 71st anniversary of Jayalalithaa.
However, the fans did not react well to the first look poster, with many commenting that the heavy computer generated imagery did not do Jayalalithaa justice, and that Kangana was overacting in the short bit that was a remake of Vennira Aadai.
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Losliya Mariyanesan to Star in Her First Film, Friendship

Losliya Mariyanesan, who rose to fame after her appearance in Bigg Boss Tamil 3, is currently working on her first movie Friendship with the former iconic Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh. The former Sri Lankan news anchor has been roped in as the lead in the film.
The first look of Friendship was released during the lockdown. The film is helmed by John Paul Raj and Sham Sundar, who earlier directed Chennaiyil Oru Naal 2 and Agni Devi respectively. It is touted to be a campus thriller film.
https://twitter.com/losliya_offl/status/1268854480105115648?s=20
The film will be released in Tamil, Malayalam, Hindi, Kannada and Telugu. On the music front, DM Udhayakumar will be composing the music. It is slated to release in August 2020 and also stars Arjun Sarja.
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