AirAsia India Joins Fare War, Puts One-Way Ticket at Rs 699

The Indian carrier is offering "an all inclusive one way fare" starting from as low as Rs 699 for flights from Bengaluru to Chennai, Kochi, Goa, Jaipur and Chandigarh and vice versa. |File Photo

NEW DELHI: AirAsia India today joined the domestic fare war launching a week-long sale offer for its entire network with one-way tickets with prices as low as Rs 699 including taxes.

The move came as part of its Malaysian parent company AirAsia presenting a 'Big Sale' with three million promotional seats on its network from Kuala Lumpur, with a starting fare of Rs 2,599 for international flights operated by AirAsia Berhad and Thai AirAsia, the airline said in a release.

The Indian carrier is offering "an all inclusive one way fare" starting from as low as Rs 699 for flights from Bengaluru to Chennai, Kochi, Goa, Jaipur and Chandigarh and vice versa.

The Malaysian parent company's offer of Rs 2,599 would be available on flights from Chennai, Kochi, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Tiruchirappalli and Hyderabad to Kuala Lumpur operated by AirAsia Berhad and Chennai to Bangkok flown by Thai AirAsia, the release said.

The tickets can be booked on Airasia's website from tonight till November 16, for travel period from June 10 next year to January 17, 2016, it said.

AirAsia India CEO Mittu Chandilya said "it is our constant endeavor to make air travel affordable for every Indian."

He said the 'Big Sale' offer would "allow our guests to plan their travel early with extremely low fares."

All Indian airlines have been competing with each other to fill up vacant seats, especially during the lean seasons, by offering low fares throughout the year.

AirAsia India Joins Fare War, Puts One-Way Ticket at Rs 699

Posted by Snow Wide No comments

The Indian carrier is offering "an all inclusive one way fare" starting from as low as Rs 699 for flights from Bengaluru to Chennai, Kochi, Goa, Jaipur and Chandigarh and vice versa. |File Photo

NEW DELHI: AirAsia India today joined the domestic fare war launching a week-long sale offer for its entire network with one-way tickets with prices as low as Rs 699 including taxes.

The move came as part of its Malaysian parent company AirAsia presenting a 'Big Sale' with three million promotional seats on its network from Kuala Lumpur, with a starting fare of Rs 2,599 for international flights operated by AirAsia Berhad and Thai AirAsia, the airline said in a release.

The Indian carrier is offering "an all inclusive one way fare" starting from as low as Rs 699 for flights from Bengaluru to Chennai, Kochi, Goa, Jaipur and Chandigarh and vice versa.

The Malaysian parent company's offer of Rs 2,599 would be available on flights from Chennai, Kochi, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Tiruchirappalli and Hyderabad to Kuala Lumpur operated by AirAsia Berhad and Chennai to Bangkok flown by Thai AirAsia, the release said.

The tickets can be booked on Airasia's website from tonight till November 16, for travel period from June 10 next year to January 17, 2016, it said.

AirAsia India CEO Mittu Chandilya said "it is our constant endeavor to make air travel affordable for every Indian."

He said the 'Big Sale' offer would "allow our guests to plan their travel early with extremely low fares."

All Indian airlines have been competing with each other to fill up vacant seats, especially during the lean seasons, by offering low fares throughout the year.

Sachin Tendulkar Urges Indian Players To Follow His Example

London: Sachin Tendulkar may have written off England's chances of winning next year's World Cup but that hasn't stopped the India great urging his compatriots to broaden their horizons with a spell in English county cricket.

England have never won the World Cup in nearly 40 years of trying and, having lost five out of their last six one-day international series, few expect them to end that sequence in Australia and New Zealand next year.

Tendulkar, who retired from cricket last year having become the first man to score 100 international centuries and been India's leading run-scorer during their march to the 2011 World Cup title, was among the sceptics when it came to assessing England's chances.

Sachin Tendulkar Urges Indian Players To Follow His Example

Sachin Tendulkar urged his compatriots to broaden their horizons with a spell in English county cricket.

"I think Australia, South Africa, New Zealand are a dark horse, and India -- these four should be my semi-finalists," Tendulkar said at a press conference at London's Lord's Cricket Ground on Friday, where he was promoting his autobiography, 'Playing It My Way'.

"Do England have a chance? Not really. I don't think so. Anything is possible in this sport but going on current form I don't think England will be that competitive. I feel India can surprise a lot of people and I also believe the spinners will come into play. "

"People talk about the pitches for fast bowlers but because of the size of the grounds, I think spinners could be important."

India have long proved tough to beat in home conditions but have often struggled on their travels, particularly in recent times, and were beaten 3-1 in a five-Test series in England earlier this year.

Tendulkar said he thought increased exposure to English conditions would benefit Indian players, citing his own experience as a 19-year-old when he became Yorkshire's first overseas cricketer in 1992.

Unforgettable Yorkshire

"I grew up watching cricket being played in England and the reason I wanted to start playing cricket was because of the 1983 World Cup (that India won in England)," the 41-year-old Tendulkar said.

"My first Test 100 also took place in England at Old Trafford, which was a big moment for me.

"And in 1992, the first time I played for Yorkshire was a turning point in my career because it taught me about the conditions but it also taught me a lot as a person.

"I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Yorkshire -- they were all very supportive and welcoming and I can never forget that experience, the warmth I felt there.

"England will always have a special place in my heart and my mother-in-law is English, so I have to be careful what I say about England!," added Tendulkar.

After the end of India's recent tour of England, top-order batsman Cheteshwar Pujara had a brief stint with Midlands county Derbyshire.

But Tendulkar said playing more in England would benefit India's bowlers too as he recalled the experience of left-arm paceman Zaheer Khan, who took 78 wickets for Worcestershire in 2006.

"I remember Zaheer Khan was having a lot of injuries and there was a period when he was away from cricket for a while," said Tendulkar.

"I told him there was no off-season for him -- when the monsoons are in India, he needed to go to England and he would be transformed as a cricketer.

"He did that, played a couple of seasons in English county cricket and I think that transformed him as a bowler."

Sachin Tendulkar Urges Indian Players To Follow His Example

Posted by Snow Wide No comments

London: Sachin Tendulkar may have written off England's chances of winning next year's World Cup but that hasn't stopped the India great urging his compatriots to broaden their horizons with a spell in English county cricket.

England have never won the World Cup in nearly 40 years of trying and, having lost five out of their last six one-day international series, few expect them to end that sequence in Australia and New Zealand next year.

Tendulkar, who retired from cricket last year having become the first man to score 100 international centuries and been India's leading run-scorer during their march to the 2011 World Cup title, was among the sceptics when it came to assessing England's chances.

Sachin Tendulkar Urges Indian Players To Follow His Example

Sachin Tendulkar urged his compatriots to broaden their horizons with a spell in English county cricket.

"I think Australia, South Africa, New Zealand are a dark horse, and India -- these four should be my semi-finalists," Tendulkar said at a press conference at London's Lord's Cricket Ground on Friday, where he was promoting his autobiography, 'Playing It My Way'.

"Do England have a chance? Not really. I don't think so. Anything is possible in this sport but going on current form I don't think England will be that competitive. I feel India can surprise a lot of people and I also believe the spinners will come into play. "

"People talk about the pitches for fast bowlers but because of the size of the grounds, I think spinners could be important."

India have long proved tough to beat in home conditions but have often struggled on their travels, particularly in recent times, and were beaten 3-1 in a five-Test series in England earlier this year.

Tendulkar said he thought increased exposure to English conditions would benefit Indian players, citing his own experience as a 19-year-old when he became Yorkshire's first overseas cricketer in 1992.

Unforgettable Yorkshire

"I grew up watching cricket being played in England and the reason I wanted to start playing cricket was because of the 1983 World Cup (that India won in England)," the 41-year-old Tendulkar said.

"My first Test 100 also took place in England at Old Trafford, which was a big moment for me.

"And in 1992, the first time I played for Yorkshire was a turning point in my career because it taught me about the conditions but it also taught me a lot as a person.

"I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Yorkshire -- they were all very supportive and welcoming and I can never forget that experience, the warmth I felt there.

"England will always have a special place in my heart and my mother-in-law is English, so I have to be careful what I say about England!," added Tendulkar.

After the end of India's recent tour of England, top-order batsman Cheteshwar Pujara had a brief stint with Midlands county Derbyshire.

But Tendulkar said playing more in England would benefit India's bowlers too as he recalled the experience of left-arm paceman Zaheer Khan, who took 78 wickets for Worcestershire in 2006.

"I remember Zaheer Khan was having a lot of injuries and there was a period when he was away from cricket for a while," said Tendulkar.

"I told him there was no off-season for him -- when the monsoons are in India, he needed to go to England and he would be transformed as a cricketer.

"He did that, played a couple of seasons in English county cricket and I think that transformed him as a bowler."

Airstrikes hit Islamic State leaders

Airstrikes hit Islamic State leaders

   U.S. warplanes attacked what appeared to have been a gathering of top Islamic State leaders in Iraq, destroying a convoy of 10 militant armed trucks, U.S. Central Command said Saturday.

   The military could not confirm whether the Islamic State's top leader, Abu Bakr al-Bagdhadi, was killed in the strike Friday, said Col. Patrick Ryder, a spokesman for the command.

   The airstrikes were conducted near Mosul, Iraq's second-largest city and a stronghold of the Islamic State since militants seized it in June.

   If the strike did take out the militant group's top leadership it would be a significant success for the U.S.-led coalition, though insurgent groups have historically been able to regenerate leaders to replace those who have been killed or captured.

   The coalition was not targeting al-Baghdadi or other leaders at the time of the airstrike, said a defense official who asked not to be named because he was not authorized to discuss details of the operation.

   Instead, the airstrikes seized on a target of opportunity when they detected what appeared to be a gathering of top leadership, the official said.

   The airstrikes come a day after the Pentagon announced that the White House authorized up to 1,500 additional troops to be sent to Iraq, doubling the size of the U.S. presence there.

  The troops will work to expand the existing mission to advise Iraqi security forces and establish training facilities, said Rear Adm. John Kirby, the Pentagon press secretary. U.S. advisers will not accompany Iraqi units into the field, but will be at fixed training locations or top level headquarters.

Airstrikes hit Islamic State leaders

Posted by Snow Wide No comments

Airstrikes hit Islamic State leaders

   U.S. warplanes attacked what appeared to have been a gathering of top Islamic State leaders in Iraq, destroying a convoy of 10 militant armed trucks, U.S. Central Command said Saturday.

   The military could not confirm whether the Islamic State's top leader, Abu Bakr al-Bagdhadi, was killed in the strike Friday, said Col. Patrick Ryder, a spokesman for the command.

   The airstrikes were conducted near Mosul, Iraq's second-largest city and a stronghold of the Islamic State since militants seized it in June.

   If the strike did take out the militant group's top leadership it would be a significant success for the U.S.-led coalition, though insurgent groups have historically been able to regenerate leaders to replace those who have been killed or captured.

   The coalition was not targeting al-Baghdadi or other leaders at the time of the airstrike, said a defense official who asked not to be named because he was not authorized to discuss details of the operation.

   Instead, the airstrikes seized on a target of opportunity when they detected what appeared to be a gathering of top leadership, the official said.

   The airstrikes come a day after the Pentagon announced that the White House authorized up to 1,500 additional troops to be sent to Iraq, doubling the size of the U.S. presence there.

  The troops will work to expand the existing mission to advise Iraqi security forces and establish training facilities, said Rear Adm. John Kirby, the Pentagon press secretary. U.S. advisers will not accompany Iraqi units into the field, but will be at fixed training locations or top level headquarters.

Mangalore Junction On Way To Becoming World-Class Station

Mangalore Junction On Way To Becoming World-Class Station

While the Indian Railways had said it will develop Mangalore Junction Railway Station according to world-class standards, the Mangalore City Corporation (MCC) is in the process of identifying additional land required for the purpose.

MCC Commissioner (in-charge) Gokuldas Nayak informed a meeting chaired by Dakshina Kannada Lok Sabha Member Nalin Kumar Kateel that the survey would be completed in a fortnight. The Corporation is confident of identifying and acquiring about 100-150 acres of land, in addition to 63 acres held by the Southern Railway for the proposed renovation, Mr. Nayak said.

On getting the land, the Railways will identify a private partner to develop the station, Mr. Kumar said in the meeting, which was attended by officials of the Southern Railway and the Konkan Railway. The approach roads to the station too would have to be developed into world-class standards by the MCC, he added.

Road bridges

Responding to demands by area councillors, Mr. Kumar said the proposed road underbridge (RuB) at Jeppu Kudpadi in the city would be completed by June 15, for which the MCC has already paid Rs. 3.61 crore to the Southern Railway, he said. The RuB is funded solely by the MCC. The RuB on Padil-Bajal Road would be completed by March 15, he said.

Meanwhile, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has taken over construction of the second road overbridge (RoB) at Baikampadi and added it would be complete by February. Another RoB on Mangalore-Bangalore NH near B.C. Road would be complete by January, he said.

While work on Adarsh station at Puttur would be complete next month, the construction of two more platforms for that station would be over by February, he said. Two RoBs – near APMC and Vivekananda College – in Puttur have been sanctioned under 50:50 cost sharing pattern and the state government has to approve the same, he said.

KRCL officials informed the MP that the shortcomings noticed by him – unclean platforms, lack of parking space, etc. – at the Surathkal station had been addressed. Mr. Kumar asked the district administration to shift the commercial tax check post near the station entrance (for checking trucks to be loaded on roll on-roll off service) to a different place to remove congestion in the area.

Southern Railway’s Palakkad Divisional Railway Manager Anand Prakash, and Konkan Railway’s Karwar Regional Manager Bindu Muralidharan were present.

Mangalore Junction On Way To Becoming World-Class Station

Posted by Snow Wide No comments

Mangalore Junction On Way To Becoming World-Class Station

While the Indian Railways had said it will develop Mangalore Junction Railway Station according to world-class standards, the Mangalore City Corporation (MCC) is in the process of identifying additional land required for the purpose.

MCC Commissioner (in-charge) Gokuldas Nayak informed a meeting chaired by Dakshina Kannada Lok Sabha Member Nalin Kumar Kateel that the survey would be completed in a fortnight. The Corporation is confident of identifying and acquiring about 100-150 acres of land, in addition to 63 acres held by the Southern Railway for the proposed renovation, Mr. Nayak said.

On getting the land, the Railways will identify a private partner to develop the station, Mr. Kumar said in the meeting, which was attended by officials of the Southern Railway and the Konkan Railway. The approach roads to the station too would have to be developed into world-class standards by the MCC, he added.

Road bridges

Responding to demands by area councillors, Mr. Kumar said the proposed road underbridge (RuB) at Jeppu Kudpadi in the city would be completed by June 15, for which the MCC has already paid Rs. 3.61 crore to the Southern Railway, he said. The RuB is funded solely by the MCC. The RuB on Padil-Bajal Road would be completed by March 15, he said.

Meanwhile, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has taken over construction of the second road overbridge (RoB) at Baikampadi and added it would be complete by February. Another RoB on Mangalore-Bangalore NH near B.C. Road would be complete by January, he said.

While work on Adarsh station at Puttur would be complete next month, the construction of two more platforms for that station would be over by February, he said. Two RoBs – near APMC and Vivekananda College – in Puttur have been sanctioned under 50:50 cost sharing pattern and the state government has to approve the same, he said.

KRCL officials informed the MP that the shortcomings noticed by him – unclean platforms, lack of parking space, etc. – at the Surathkal station had been addressed. Mr. Kumar asked the district administration to shift the commercial tax check post near the station entrance (for checking trucks to be loaded on roll on-roll off service) to a different place to remove congestion in the area.

Southern Railway’s Palakkad Divisional Railway Manager Anand Prakash, and Konkan Railway’s Karwar Regional Manager Bindu Muralidharan were present.

Zuckerberg Answers Big Questions About Facebook, Forced Downloads Of Messenger, And Page Reach

Zuckerberg Answers Big Questions About Facebook, Forced Downloads Of Messenger, And Page Reach

Today at his first public Q&A, Mark Zuckerberg boldly responded to some of the top gripes and questions about his company. Here’s a look at the top questions and a summary of the Facebook CEO’s answers.

Why were people forced to download the separate Messenger app to chat?

People were forced to download Messenger because Zuckerberg thinks it’s a “better experience” and to get you faster responses from friends. Before, messaging was buried in the main app behind several taps, which made it harder to use. People send 10 billion messages a day, so Facebook thought it deserved its own full-fledged experience. Messenger delivered this better experience, but only if all your friends use it, too, and respond to your messages quicker, so it forced people to download. In the end, though, Zuck admitted “Maybe we didn’t handle that as smoothly as we could, in terms of the transition.”

Why is organic Page reach decreasing?

The percentage of their fans that Pages reach with each of their News Feed posts is decreasing because of two facts. One, people are sharing more content per day, adding more friends who share more content, and subscribing to more Pages that…share more content. There’s on average around 1,500 posts eligible to be shown in each person’s News Feed each day. Two, people only spend a limited time looking at News Feed per day. Facebook only shows around 100 posts per day. Zuckerberg says “No person will look at everything.”

With more content to be shown but roughly the same amount of time spent consuming it, there’s more competition for each slot. That means each source of the content naturally reaches a smaller percentage of the people it could be shown to. Zuckerberg empathized with businesses trying to reach their customers, but explained that people would probably rather see a post about their friend’s baby being born and it being healthy than some post from a Page. He says when there’s a conflict between the interest of Facebook’s News Feed-reading end users and business, “we optimize for the readers.” His advice to Pages is to “focus on sharing great content,” which Facebook will recognize more people will want to see and it will show it to them.

What can be done to get more women in tech?

Zuckerberg says that support for women entering science, technology, engineering and math needs to start earlier in the funnel so girls don’t self select out. He also noted that there’s a cyclical problem where there’s not a lot of women in tech because there aren’t a lot of women in tech. Essentially, there’s a lack of role models. He said to break this cycle, there needs to be an overwhelming effort. Zuckerberg noted this is everyone’s responsibility.

Why does Mark Zuckerberg wear the same shirt every day? Are there more than one of the same shirt? 

Zuck says with a laugh that yes, he has multiple copies of the same shirt. He explained the reason he wears the same gray t-shirt everyday, “speaks to how we think about our duty to the community here.” He said his goal is to clear his life so he can make as few decisions as possible so he can focus on making Facebook the best experience possible. “I don’t feel like I’m doing my job if I spend any of my time on anything silly or frivolous in my life.”

Zuckerberg Answers Big Questions About Facebook, Forced Downloads Of Messenger, And Page Reach

Posted by Snow Wide No comments

Zuckerberg Answers Big Questions About Facebook, Forced Downloads Of Messenger, And Page Reach

Today at his first public Q&A, Mark Zuckerberg boldly responded to some of the top gripes and questions about his company. Here’s a look at the top questions and a summary of the Facebook CEO’s answers.

Why were people forced to download the separate Messenger app to chat?

People were forced to download Messenger because Zuckerberg thinks it’s a “better experience” and to get you faster responses from friends. Before, messaging was buried in the main app behind several taps, which made it harder to use. People send 10 billion messages a day, so Facebook thought it deserved its own full-fledged experience. Messenger delivered this better experience, but only if all your friends use it, too, and respond to your messages quicker, so it forced people to download. In the end, though, Zuck admitted “Maybe we didn’t handle that as smoothly as we could, in terms of the transition.”

Why is organic Page reach decreasing?

The percentage of their fans that Pages reach with each of their News Feed posts is decreasing because of two facts. One, people are sharing more content per day, adding more friends who share more content, and subscribing to more Pages that…share more content. There’s on average around 1,500 posts eligible to be shown in each person’s News Feed each day. Two, people only spend a limited time looking at News Feed per day. Facebook only shows around 100 posts per day. Zuckerberg says “No person will look at everything.”

With more content to be shown but roughly the same amount of time spent consuming it, there’s more competition for each slot. That means each source of the content naturally reaches a smaller percentage of the people it could be shown to. Zuckerberg empathized with businesses trying to reach their customers, but explained that people would probably rather see a post about their friend’s baby being born and it being healthy than some post from a Page. He says when there’s a conflict between the interest of Facebook’s News Feed-reading end users and business, “we optimize for the readers.” His advice to Pages is to “focus on sharing great content,” which Facebook will recognize more people will want to see and it will show it to them.

What can be done to get more women in tech?

Zuckerberg says that support for women entering science, technology, engineering and math needs to start earlier in the funnel so girls don’t self select out. He also noted that there’s a cyclical problem where there’s not a lot of women in tech because there aren’t a lot of women in tech. Essentially, there’s a lack of role models. He said to break this cycle, there needs to be an overwhelming effort. Zuckerberg noted this is everyone’s responsibility.

Why does Mark Zuckerberg wear the same shirt every day? Are there more than one of the same shirt? 

Zuck says with a laugh that yes, he has multiple copies of the same shirt. He explained the reason he wears the same gray t-shirt everyday, “speaks to how we think about our duty to the community here.” He said his goal is to clear his life so he can make as few decisions as possible so he can focus on making Facebook the best experience possible. “I don’t feel like I’m doing my job if I spend any of my time on anything silly or frivolous in my life.”

No valid reason given for not disclosing names in blackmoney list: Subramanian Swamy

Swamy said that he has written to PM Narendra Modi that the argument forwarded by FM Arun Jaitley was not correct. (Source: PTI)

BJP leader Subramanian Swamy on Saturday said the government was not giving a valid reason in not revealing names of the accounts of Indians held in foreign banks.

“The government is saying that the Double Tax Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) which India had signed with other countries prevented it from revealing the names of the foreign account holders, which is not a valid reason”, Swamy told reporters on the sidelines of an event here.

Although there is a secrecy clause in the DTAA which was preventing the government from disclosing the names, the hurdle could be overcome, he said.

Swamy said when Pranab Mukherjee was the Finance Minister before becoming President, he had written to German government for disclosure of names under the DTAA for accounts held in Liechtenstein.

“Now what the government have to do now is that it will again have to write to the German counterpart that earlier it had wrongly sought disclosures under DTAA. Now the government is seeking the disclosures under a particular UN resolution “, he said.

Swamy said that he has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi that the argument forwarded by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley was not correct.

When pointed out that when BJP was in the Opposition, the party had criticised the Congress-led UPA for citing DTAA as the sole reason for the government not being able to disclose the names and the present dispensation was doing the same now, Swamy said that “it is the BJP which had formed the SIT soon after coming to power”.

“Why did not the Congress form it despite the Supreme Court giving directions in 2011″, he asked.

“The black money stashed abroad should be brought back to India and we will do that”, he asserted. Swamy said that black money was also legitimised through participatory notes.

- See more at: http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/no-valid-reason-given-for-not-disclosing-names-in-blackmoney-list-subramanian-swamy/#sthash.3WRe4lYI.dpuf

No valid reason given for not disclosing names in blackmoney list: Subramanian Swamy

Posted by Snow Wide No comments

Swamy said that he has written to PM Narendra Modi that the argument forwarded by FM Arun Jaitley was not correct. (Source: PTI)

BJP leader Subramanian Swamy on Saturday said the government was not giving a valid reason in not revealing names of the accounts of Indians held in foreign banks.

“The government is saying that the Double Tax Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) which India had signed with other countries prevented it from revealing the names of the foreign account holders, which is not a valid reason”, Swamy told reporters on the sidelines of an event here.

Although there is a secrecy clause in the DTAA which was preventing the government from disclosing the names, the hurdle could be overcome, he said.

Swamy said when Pranab Mukherjee was the Finance Minister before becoming President, he had written to German government for disclosure of names under the DTAA for accounts held in Liechtenstein.

“Now what the government have to do now is that it will again have to write to the German counterpart that earlier it had wrongly sought disclosures under DTAA. Now the government is seeking the disclosures under a particular UN resolution “, he said.

Swamy said that he has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi that the argument forwarded by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley was not correct.

When pointed out that when BJP was in the Opposition, the party had criticised the Congress-led UPA for citing DTAA as the sole reason for the government not being able to disclose the names and the present dispensation was doing the same now, Swamy said that “it is the BJP which had formed the SIT soon after coming to power”.

“Why did not the Congress form it despite the Supreme Court giving directions in 2011″, he asked.

“The black money stashed abroad should be brought back to India and we will do that”, he asserted. Swamy said that black money was also legitimised through participatory notes.

- See more at: http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/no-valid-reason-given-for-not-disclosing-names-in-blackmoney-list-subramanian-swamy/#sthash.3WRe4lYI.dpuf

ICC Test and ODI Teams of the Year 2014 announced

Steyn and Dhoni named in Test and ODI sides for seventh year in a row, respectively

The ICC today announced its Test and ODI Teams of the Year, as chosen by a specially appointed selection panel chaired by the ICC’s Cricket Committee chairman and former India captain Anil Kumble.

The announcement was made by Mr Kumble at a media conference at the ICC Headquarters in Dubai, where ICC Chief Executive David Richardson also announced the short-lists for the LG ICC Awards 2014. This year’s winners will be announced via a media release on 14 November, while a special TV show, which will recap the last year in world cricket and also include interviews with many nominees and winners, will be broadcast on 15 November.

ICC Test Team of the Year 2014 (in batting order):

David Warner (Aus)
Kane Williamson (NZ)
Kumar Sangakkara (SL)
AB de Villiers (SA)
Joe Root (Eng)
Angelo Mathews (SL) (captain)
Mitchell Johnson (Aus)
Stuart Broad (Eng)
Dale Steyn (SA)
Rangana Herath (SL)
Tim Southee (NZ)
Ross Taylor (NZ) (12th man)

Sri Lanka’s Angelo Mathews has been named as the captain of the side that also includes two more Sri Lankans in Kumar Sangakkara and Rangana Herath. This is the seventh time since 2006 that Sangakkara has been selected in the ICC Test Team of the Year. He missed out on selection in 2009 and 2013.

Dale Steyn has also been selected for a record seventh successive year in the ICC Test Team of the Year, while his team-mate AB de Villiers has been selected for the fifth time (2009, 2010, 2011, 2013 and 2014).

Stuart Broad (2009, 2011 and 2012) and Mitchell Johnson (2009) are the other players who have previously been selected in the ICC Test Team of the Year.

ICC ODI Team of the Year 2014 (in batting order):

Mohammad Hafeez (Pak)
Quinton de Kock (SA)
Virat Kohli (Ind)
George Bailey (Aus)
AB de Villiers (SA)
MS Dhoni (wicketkeeper) (captain)
Dwayne Bravo (WI)
James Faulkner (Aus)
Dale Steyn (SA)
Mohammad Shami (Ind)
Ajantha Mendis (SL)
Rohit Sharma (Ind) (12th man)

India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni has been selected in the ICC ODI Team of the Year for the eight time (seventh year in a row), while it is the fifth year that he has been appointed captain.

Players to be previously selected in the ICC ODI Team of the Year are de Villiers (2010, 2011 and 2013), Virat Kohli (2012) and Ajantha Mendis (2009).

The Chairman of the LG ICC Awards Selection Panel, Anil Kumble, added: “I would like to congratulate all the players for their selection in the teams of the year. It is an achievement to be proud of and a recognition for their good performances in the qualifying period.

“Team selection is one of the toughest jobs and when you have a large pool of outstanding players to select from in a 12-month period between 26 August 2013 and 17 September 2014, then it becomes even more difficult.

“However, we think we have selected the best possible sides, which are well balanced and capable of beating any side on any given day in any given conditions. While selecting these squads, the selectors discussed various combinations and took into account several scenarios like opposition, pitch conditions and match situations.”

Kumble was joined on the panel by Jonathan Agnew, a former England international and now a respected broadcaster/journalist, ex-Sri Lanka opener Russel Arnold, former New Zealand captain Stephen Fleming, and Betty Timmer, former Chair of the ICC Women’s Committee.

Statistics were available as a guide but were not necessarily the overwhelming factor in the choices made.

ICC Test and ODI Teams of the Year 2014 announced

Posted by Snow Wide No comments

Steyn and Dhoni named in Test and ODI sides for seventh year in a row, respectively

The ICC today announced its Test and ODI Teams of the Year, as chosen by a specially appointed selection panel chaired by the ICC’s Cricket Committee chairman and former India captain Anil Kumble.

The announcement was made by Mr Kumble at a media conference at the ICC Headquarters in Dubai, where ICC Chief Executive David Richardson also announced the short-lists for the LG ICC Awards 2014. This year’s winners will be announced via a media release on 14 November, while a special TV show, which will recap the last year in world cricket and also include interviews with many nominees and winners, will be broadcast on 15 November.

ICC Test Team of the Year 2014 (in batting order):

David Warner (Aus)
Kane Williamson (NZ)
Kumar Sangakkara (SL)
AB de Villiers (SA)
Joe Root (Eng)
Angelo Mathews (SL) (captain)
Mitchell Johnson (Aus)
Stuart Broad (Eng)
Dale Steyn (SA)
Rangana Herath (SL)
Tim Southee (NZ)
Ross Taylor (NZ) (12th man)

Sri Lanka’s Angelo Mathews has been named as the captain of the side that also includes two more Sri Lankans in Kumar Sangakkara and Rangana Herath. This is the seventh time since 2006 that Sangakkara has been selected in the ICC Test Team of the Year. He missed out on selection in 2009 and 2013.

Dale Steyn has also been selected for a record seventh successive year in the ICC Test Team of the Year, while his team-mate AB de Villiers has been selected for the fifth time (2009, 2010, 2011, 2013 and 2014).

Stuart Broad (2009, 2011 and 2012) and Mitchell Johnson (2009) are the other players who have previously been selected in the ICC Test Team of the Year.

ICC ODI Team of the Year 2014 (in batting order):

Mohammad Hafeez (Pak)
Quinton de Kock (SA)
Virat Kohli (Ind)
George Bailey (Aus)
AB de Villiers (SA)
MS Dhoni (wicketkeeper) (captain)
Dwayne Bravo (WI)
James Faulkner (Aus)
Dale Steyn (SA)
Mohammad Shami (Ind)
Ajantha Mendis (SL)
Rohit Sharma (Ind) (12th man)

India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni has been selected in the ICC ODI Team of the Year for the eight time (seventh year in a row), while it is the fifth year that he has been appointed captain.

Players to be previously selected in the ICC ODI Team of the Year are de Villiers (2010, 2011 and 2013), Virat Kohli (2012) and Ajantha Mendis (2009).

The Chairman of the LG ICC Awards Selection Panel, Anil Kumble, added: “I would like to congratulate all the players for their selection in the teams of the year. It is an achievement to be proud of and a recognition for their good performances in the qualifying period.

“Team selection is one of the toughest jobs and when you have a large pool of outstanding players to select from in a 12-month period between 26 August 2013 and 17 September 2014, then it becomes even more difficult.

“However, we think we have selected the best possible sides, which are well balanced and capable of beating any side on any given day in any given conditions. While selecting these squads, the selectors discussed various combinations and took into account several scenarios like opposition, pitch conditions and match situations.”

Kumble was joined on the panel by Jonathan Agnew, a former England international and now a respected broadcaster/journalist, ex-Sri Lanka opener Russel Arnold, former New Zealand captain Stephen Fleming, and Betty Timmer, former Chair of the ICC Women’s Committee.

Statistics were available as a guide but were not necessarily the overwhelming factor in the choices made.

Rupee falls to 3.5-week low on strong dollar sentiment

  The Indian rupee dropped to nearly 3-1/2 weeks low to close at 61.62 against US currency weighed by sustained dollar demand from importers amid strong overseas sentiment.

 The renewed strength of dollar is keeping emerging market currencies under immense pressure, a forex dealer commented.

   Despite robust funds inflows, volatile local equities also added pressure on the rupee front. At the Interbank Foreign Exchange market (Forex), domestic unit commenced lower at 61.52 a dollar as against Wednesday's close of 61.41 and moved in a range of 61.4875 and 61.6750 before finishing at 61.62, showing a loss of 21 paise, or 0.34 per cent.

  Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net Rs 1,030.85 crores on Wednesday, as per provisional data released by the stock exchanges.

  The US Greenback surged to more than five-year high against major curriencies following upbeat US jobless data as well as record breaking rallies in equties.

   Meanwhile, the benchmark Sensex retreated from its record-breaking run and settled lower at 27,868.63, down 47.25 points or 0.17 per cent.

Rupee falls to 3.5-week low on strong dollar sentiment

Posted by Snow Wide No comments

  The Indian rupee dropped to nearly 3-1/2 weeks low to close at 61.62 against US currency weighed by sustained dollar demand from importers amid strong overseas sentiment.

 The renewed strength of dollar is keeping emerging market currencies under immense pressure, a forex dealer commented.

   Despite robust funds inflows, volatile local equities also added pressure on the rupee front. At the Interbank Foreign Exchange market (Forex), domestic unit commenced lower at 61.52 a dollar as against Wednesday's close of 61.41 and moved in a range of 61.4875 and 61.6750 before finishing at 61.62, showing a loss of 21 paise, or 0.34 per cent.

  Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net Rs 1,030.85 crores on Wednesday, as per provisional data released by the stock exchanges.

  The US Greenback surged to more than five-year high against major curriencies following upbeat US jobless data as well as record breaking rallies in equties.

   Meanwhile, the benchmark Sensex retreated from its record-breaking run and settled lower at 27,868.63, down 47.25 points or 0.17 per cent.

Aamir Khan launches first song 'Tharki chokro' from PK

Superstar Aamir Khan and film-maker Rajkumar Hirani launched the first song of their upcoming biggie PK at a multiplex in Noida on Saturday.

Aamir was at his cordial best, patiently obliging the media shutterbugs, but his heroine Anushka Sharma and co-star Sushant Singh Rajput were kept away from this phase of the film's promotion.

The song in question, Tharki chhokro, is a peppy folk number with Rajasthani strains, and struck a chord with those present at the launch. Ajay-Atul, who shot to fame as the composers of Agneepath, have composed the song penned by Swanand Kirkire.

A highlight of the evening was Swaroop Khan, who has sung the number. He turned up wearing an elaborate colourful Rajasthani turban, which he teamed with a designer jacket and denim pants to complete a fusion statement in style.

The budding Rajasthani folk singer seemed clearly excited about his number being the first song to be launched as part of promotions of such a big film.

Swaroop had become a national sensation on Indian Idol season 5 when he impressed the audience and judges alike. Singing in an Aamir film, Swaroop felt, was a dream come true.

Hirani, who makes his official debut as a producer with this film, was all praise for Ajay-Atul. He recalled how a song the duo had composed for a Marathi film actually caught his attention, which is why he offered them this film. Tharki chhokro is a fun number picturised on Aamir and Sanjay Dutt, who has a cameo in the film.

Dutt, who was the star of Hirani's Munna Bhai films, was clearly missed by the director.

Hirani is in fact making a biopic on the life of Sanjay Dutt next, which will star Ranbir Kapoor as the actor whose life has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride in turmoil.

Aamir Khan launches first song 'Tharki chokro' from PK

Posted by Snow Wide No comments

Superstar Aamir Khan and film-maker Rajkumar Hirani launched the first song of their upcoming biggie PK at a multiplex in Noida on Saturday.

Aamir was at his cordial best, patiently obliging the media shutterbugs, but his heroine Anushka Sharma and co-star Sushant Singh Rajput were kept away from this phase of the film's promotion.

The song in question, Tharki chhokro, is a peppy folk number with Rajasthani strains, and struck a chord with those present at the launch. Ajay-Atul, who shot to fame as the composers of Agneepath, have composed the song penned by Swanand Kirkire.

A highlight of the evening was Swaroop Khan, who has sung the number. He turned up wearing an elaborate colourful Rajasthani turban, which he teamed with a designer jacket and denim pants to complete a fusion statement in style.

The budding Rajasthani folk singer seemed clearly excited about his number being the first song to be launched as part of promotions of such a big film.

Swaroop had become a national sensation on Indian Idol season 5 when he impressed the audience and judges alike. Singing in an Aamir film, Swaroop felt, was a dream come true.

Hirani, who makes his official debut as a producer with this film, was all praise for Ajay-Atul. He recalled how a song the duo had composed for a Marathi film actually caught his attention, which is why he offered them this film. Tharki chhokro is a fun number picturised on Aamir and Sanjay Dutt, who has a cameo in the film.

Dutt, who was the star of Hirani's Munna Bhai films, was clearly missed by the director.

Hirani is in fact making a biopic on the life of Sanjay Dutt next, which will star Ranbir Kapoor as the actor whose life has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride in turmoil.

Paes-Bopanna magic keeps India alive in Davis Cup

BANGALORE: Leander Paes yet again turned the clock back in company of Rohan Bopanna as the Indian duo recorded a dramatic come-from-behind 1-6, 6-7(4), 6-3, 6-3, 8-6 win over Serbian pair of Nenad Zimonjic and Ilija Bozoljac to keep home team's chances alive in the Davis Cup World Group play-off tie on Saturday.

It was yet another brilliant Davis Cup show by Leander against a Serbian pair, who had the distinction of beating the legendary Bryan brothers in Davis Cup last season.

India were down by two sets and a break in the third and the tie was heavily tilted in the favour of the 2010 champions but things changed dramatically for India from the sixth game of that set, soon after Zimonjic needed a timeout for a back niggle.

Bopanna started to explode with his bazooka serves and Paes was at his athletic best playing his customary 'chip and charge' game with immaculate anticipation as they were cheered by a partisan crowd of 5000 this evening.

The turnaround happened after Bopanna initially struggled to serve to his strength and keeping the ball inside the court. Paes' magic was nowhere to be seen as the Serbians were cruising for a straight-set win.

There was no stopping the Indians after they managed to break Zimonjic in the sixth game of the third set. The Serbians crumbled as the crowd went behind the team with defeaning cheers, a situation in which Paes thrives and his magic rubs on.

The ball speed improved as the match progressed and it helped the Indians in a big way. As the balls grew old and balls started to travel at a better speed, Paes and Bopanna found their mojo back. The stinging serves were in, strokes precise and emotion on a high while the Serbians felt the heat on a cool and pleasant evening.

Bojoljac, only player under-30 of the four on court, stood out with his big service game in the match and rode the team on his back in the gruelling fight.

He did not wither under pressure and kept the team in the hunt until Zimonjic's forehand went long on India's first match point while serving at 6-7 in the fifth set.

Now India need to win both the singles on Sunday to enter the World Group for the next season. Somdev Devvarman will take on Dusan Lajovic while Yuki Bhambri will clash with Filip Ktajonovic in the fifth rubber.

Playing a Davis Cup tie only third time together and for the first time in India, Paes and Bopanna initially found the going tough as they lost the first set in a jiffy. The Serbians ran away with lead in just 18 minutes as both Paes and Bopanna struggled with their serves.

Paes could win only two points on his serve in the opening set while his compatriot struggled with precision, sending a lot of backhands out.

The Serbians returned extremely well and capitalized on the cracks they found in the game of the host players. Paes lost his serve when he double faulted down at 0-40 in the third game.

Bopanna was expected to serve well to feed an ever-agile Paes at the net but Serbians never let that happen in the initial sets.

Service quality of Bojoljac proved to be a big factor in today's outcome. Whenever the visitors found themselves in crunch situations, he bailed the team out.

After losing the first set, Indians came out firing, egged on by a loud and cheering crowd. Zimonjic was broken in the third game at love when the Serbian committed a double fault. India were now up 2-1 and consolidated the lead with Paes holding serve for the first time.

The hosts were set to further dent the visitors as Bozoljac was down a break point after netting a volley. However the Serb shifted the gears under pressure, firing three consecutive service winners to deny India a cushion.

India surrendered the advantage of the early break when Paes dropped his serve in the eighth game, making it 4-4. Again Bopanna who could not keep the control over the ball, which flew over the lines.

India had another chance to get the break back and serve out the set when Paes hit a winner to go up 40-30 on Zimonjic's serve but Bopanna's return could not cross the net. Zimonjic fired the sixth ace of the team to yet again deny India.

The set eventually was stretched to the tie-breaker in which again it was Bozoljac's serve and returns made a huge difference even as Indians paid the price for free-flowing errors.

After India got a break in the sixth game of third set, Bojoljac came up with a rare poor service game in the eighth and was quickly down 15-40 and Paes smashed a service winner to be ready to serve out the set.

The sudden shift in momentum had the crowd going, reserves Jeevan Nedunchezhiyan, Saketh Myneni and physio Yash Pandey took turns to wave the flag, inspiring the crowd cheer more loud.

Breaking Zimonjic in the first game of the fourth set was what India needed to put more pressure on the Serbians, who were now breaking under the pressure.

Before the start of the tie, Rohan Bopanna received the 'David Cup Commitment' award for completing his 20th tie -- a must to get the distinction from the International Tennis Federation (ITF).

Paes-Bopanna magic keeps India alive in Davis Cup

Posted by Snow wide No comments

BANGALORE: Leander Paes yet again turned the clock back in company of Rohan Bopanna as the Indian duo recorded a dramatic come-from-behind 1-6, 6-7(4), 6-3, 6-3, 8-6 win over Serbian pair of Nenad Zimonjic and Ilija Bozoljac to keep home team's chances alive in the Davis Cup World Group play-off tie on Saturday.

It was yet another brilliant Davis Cup show by Leander against a Serbian pair, who had the distinction of beating the legendary Bryan brothers in Davis Cup last season.

India were down by two sets and a break in the third and the tie was heavily tilted in the favour of the 2010 champions but things changed dramatically for India from the sixth game of that set, soon after Zimonjic needed a timeout for a back niggle.

Bopanna started to explode with his bazooka serves and Paes was at his athletic best playing his customary 'chip and charge' game with immaculate anticipation as they were cheered by a partisan crowd of 5000 this evening.

The turnaround happened after Bopanna initially struggled to serve to his strength and keeping the ball inside the court. Paes' magic was nowhere to be seen as the Serbians were cruising for a straight-set win.

There was no stopping the Indians after they managed to break Zimonjic in the sixth game of the third set. The Serbians crumbled as the crowd went behind the team with defeaning cheers, a situation in which Paes thrives and his magic rubs on.

The ball speed improved as the match progressed and it helped the Indians in a big way. As the balls grew old and balls started to travel at a better speed, Paes and Bopanna found their mojo back. The stinging serves were in, strokes precise and emotion on a high while the Serbians felt the heat on a cool and pleasant evening.

Bojoljac, only player under-30 of the four on court, stood out with his big service game in the match and rode the team on his back in the gruelling fight.

He did not wither under pressure and kept the team in the hunt until Zimonjic's forehand went long on India's first match point while serving at 6-7 in the fifth set.

Now India need to win both the singles on Sunday to enter the World Group for the next season. Somdev Devvarman will take on Dusan Lajovic while Yuki Bhambri will clash with Filip Ktajonovic in the fifth rubber.

Playing a Davis Cup tie only third time together and for the first time in India, Paes and Bopanna initially found the going tough as they lost the first set in a jiffy. The Serbians ran away with lead in just 18 minutes as both Paes and Bopanna struggled with their serves.

Paes could win only two points on his serve in the opening set while his compatriot struggled with precision, sending a lot of backhands out.

The Serbians returned extremely well and capitalized on the cracks they found in the game of the host players. Paes lost his serve when he double faulted down at 0-40 in the third game.

Bopanna was expected to serve well to feed an ever-agile Paes at the net but Serbians never let that happen in the initial sets.

Service quality of Bojoljac proved to be a big factor in today's outcome. Whenever the visitors found themselves in crunch situations, he bailed the team out.

After losing the first set, Indians came out firing, egged on by a loud and cheering crowd. Zimonjic was broken in the third game at love when the Serbian committed a double fault. India were now up 2-1 and consolidated the lead with Paes holding serve for the first time.

The hosts were set to further dent the visitors as Bozoljac was down a break point after netting a volley. However the Serb shifted the gears under pressure, firing three consecutive service winners to deny India a cushion.

India surrendered the advantage of the early break when Paes dropped his serve in the eighth game, making it 4-4. Again Bopanna who could not keep the control over the ball, which flew over the lines.

India had another chance to get the break back and serve out the set when Paes hit a winner to go up 40-30 on Zimonjic's serve but Bopanna's return could not cross the net. Zimonjic fired the sixth ace of the team to yet again deny India.

The set eventually was stretched to the tie-breaker in which again it was Bozoljac's serve and returns made a huge difference even as Indians paid the price for free-flowing errors.

After India got a break in the sixth game of third set, Bojoljac came up with a rare poor service game in the eighth and was quickly down 15-40 and Paes smashed a service winner to be ready to serve out the set.

The sudden shift in momentum had the crowd going, reserves Jeevan Nedunchezhiyan, Saketh Myneni and physio Yash Pandey took turns to wave the flag, inspiring the crowd cheer more loud.

Breaking Zimonjic in the first game of the fourth set was what India needed to put more pressure on the Serbians, who were now breaking under the pressure.

Before the start of the tie, Rohan Bopanna received the 'David Cup Commitment' award for completing his 20th tie -- a must to get the distinction from the International Tennis Federation (ITF).

Mohit Suri to direct adaptation of Chetan Bhagat’s book Half Girlfriend

Mohit Suri and Chetan Bhagat

Once upon a time, there was a Bihari boy called Madhav. He fell in love with a girl called Riya. Madhav didn't speak English, Riya did. Madhav wanted a relationship, Riya didn't. Riya wanted friendship, Madhav didn't. Riya suggested a compromise. She agreed to be his half girlfriend. 

Chetan Bhagat's next is an emotional love story about Madhav, the Bihari boy, who falls in a love with the upper class English speaking, high society girl, Riya. While Madhav wants a relationship, Riya is not sure so she makes a compromise and agrees to become his half girlfriend.

While Kai Po Che was about religion and 2 States about communities, Half Girlfriend is about how English has become the new class system. We have exclusively learnt that Mohit Suri will be directing this film that is set in Bihar, Delhi and New York.

ALSO READ: Chetan Bhagat's 'Half-girlfriend': Stars who can act in the film 

Confirming this to us, Chetan said, "Mohit and I have been in touch for many years. This is a super passionate love story. He read the manuscript and was so moved that he decided to partner with me and direct this film." Mohit too confirmed the same to us and said, "I liked it because of the simplicity and the identifiability with the story. The girl's character is that of a musician in the film. It's not a love story for perfect people, but it's about how normal people fall in love and how we hurt people whom we love the most. The story is so simple and yet I found myself crying in two places."

The love story is about a young couple and will therefore require a young cast. Mohit will be shooting this film next year after Humari Adhuri Kahani and the remake of Intouchables.

WATCH: Chetan Bhagat Wants Alia 

Mohit Suri to direct adaptation of Chetan Bhagat’s book Half Girlfriend

Posted by Snow Wide No comments

Mohit Suri and Chetan Bhagat

Once upon a time, there was a Bihari boy called Madhav. He fell in love with a girl called Riya. Madhav didn't speak English, Riya did. Madhav wanted a relationship, Riya didn't. Riya wanted friendship, Madhav didn't. Riya suggested a compromise. She agreed to be his half girlfriend. 

Chetan Bhagat's next is an emotional love story about Madhav, the Bihari boy, who falls in a love with the upper class English speaking, high society girl, Riya. While Madhav wants a relationship, Riya is not sure so she makes a compromise and agrees to become his half girlfriend.

While Kai Po Che was about religion and 2 States about communities, Half Girlfriend is about how English has become the new class system. We have exclusively learnt that Mohit Suri will be directing this film that is set in Bihar, Delhi and New York.

ALSO READ: Chetan Bhagat's 'Half-girlfriend': Stars who can act in the film 

Confirming this to us, Chetan said, "Mohit and I have been in touch for many years. This is a super passionate love story. He read the manuscript and was so moved that he decided to partner with me and direct this film." Mohit too confirmed the same to us and said, "I liked it because of the simplicity and the identifiability with the story. The girl's character is that of a musician in the film. It's not a love story for perfect people, but it's about how normal people fall in love and how we hurt people whom we love the most. The story is so simple and yet I found myself crying in two places."

The love story is about a young couple and will therefore require a young cast. Mohit will be shooting this film next year after Humari Adhuri Kahani and the remake of Intouchables.

WATCH: Chetan Bhagat Wants Alia 

Loukyam Theatrical Trailer - Gopichand, Rakul Preet Singh, Hamsa Nandini...

Loukyam Theatrical Trailer - Gopichand, Rakul Preet Singh, Hamsa Nandini...

Posted by Snow Wide No comments

SIIMA Awards 2014: Venue, Celebrity Attendees and Star Performances

Chiranjeevi to be honoured at SIIMA 2014Government of India

The much-awaited South Indian International Movie Awards (SIIMA) 2014 event is all set to kick off on Friday (12 September) in Kuala Lampur, Malaysia.

The two-day event (12-13 September) will be a grand affair with celebrities from the South Indian film industry gathering under one roof.

Venue and Timings

SIIMA 2014 is all set to take place at Stadium Negara, Malaysia. The event will kick off at 6.30 pm.

To buy the tickets for 12 September event, click HERE and for 13 September event, clickHERE.

Star Performers

Simbu, Tamannaah, Devi Sri Prasad, Lakshmi Menon, Shivraj Kumar, Shriya Saran, Nivin Pauly, Regina Cassandra, Kriti Kharbanda, Adah Sharma, Nandita Swetha, Keerthy Suresh, Isha Talwar, Amulya, Sharmiela Madra and Rosin Jolly are set to perform on stage at the grand event.

Celebrity Attendees

SIIMA 2014 will witness the presence of several south Indian film celebrities.

Telugu actor Chiranjeevi is expected to attend the event. SIIMA and Malaysian Ministry of Tourism and Culture will be honouring him for being the brand ambassador of south Indian cinema and for his contribution towards Indian tourism.

Versatile actress Sridevi and her husband Boney Kapoor might also attend the award ceremony. Dhanush, Sivakarthikeyan, Prithviraj, Vikram Prabhu, Arya, Hansika, Amala Paul, Rana Daggubati, Trisha, Dileep, Lakshmi Manchu, Nani, Brahmanandam, Anirudh, Radhika Sarathkumar and Priyamani are likely to be present for the grand occasion.

Some celebrities, including Kushboo, Adah, Pranitha, Regina, Navdeep, Sachiin Joshi and Kriti have already reached Malaysia for the two-day event.

Nominations

SIIMA Awards 2014: Venue, Celebrity Attendees and Star Performances

Posted by Snow wide No comments

Chiranjeevi to be honoured at SIIMA 2014Government of India

The much-awaited South Indian International Movie Awards (SIIMA) 2014 event is all set to kick off on Friday (12 September) in Kuala Lampur, Malaysia.

The two-day event (12-13 September) will be a grand affair with celebrities from the South Indian film industry gathering under one roof.

Venue and Timings

SIIMA 2014 is all set to take place at Stadium Negara, Malaysia. The event will kick off at 6.30 pm.

To buy the tickets for 12 September event, click HERE and for 13 September event, clickHERE.

Star Performers

Simbu, Tamannaah, Devi Sri Prasad, Lakshmi Menon, Shivraj Kumar, Shriya Saran, Nivin Pauly, Regina Cassandra, Kriti Kharbanda, Adah Sharma, Nandita Swetha, Keerthy Suresh, Isha Talwar, Amulya, Sharmiela Madra and Rosin Jolly are set to perform on stage at the grand event.

Celebrity Attendees

SIIMA 2014 will witness the presence of several south Indian film celebrities.

Telugu actor Chiranjeevi is expected to attend the event. SIIMA and Malaysian Ministry of Tourism and Culture will be honouring him for being the brand ambassador of south Indian cinema and for his contribution towards Indian tourism.

Versatile actress Sridevi and her husband Boney Kapoor might also attend the award ceremony. Dhanush, Sivakarthikeyan, Prithviraj, Vikram Prabhu, Arya, Hansika, Amala Paul, Rana Daggubati, Trisha, Dileep, Lakshmi Manchu, Nani, Brahmanandam, Anirudh, Radhika Sarathkumar and Priyamani are likely to be present for the grand occasion.

Some celebrities, including Kushboo, Adah, Pranitha, Regina, Navdeep, Sachiin Joshi and Kriti have already reached Malaysia for the two-day event.

Nominations

Ram Gopal Verma sparks off controversy with tweets on Ganesha Chaturthi

 Film director Ram Gopal Verma sparked off a controversy on Friday with a string of tweets questioning the basis of celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi.

The two tweets said, "Did Lord Ganesha have a paunch in his childhood too or did it develop in the recovery time of the elephant head operation?"

"Can someone tell me if today is the day Ganesha was originally born or is it the day his dad cut his head off?"

When contacted, the filmmaker said, "I already said what I had to say in my tweets. There's nothing more I can say."

However, as his Twitter posts triggered an outrage, Varma took to the microblogging website to tender an apology.

His comments drew strong reactions from leaders across the political divide.

While Shaina NC of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) called it "blasphemous and insensitive", Congress' former MP from Mumbai Sanjay Nirupam demanded police action against him for violating the law of the land.

Prem Shukla of the Shiv Sena described Varma's Twitter comments as an "insult" to the "cultural and religious ethos" of Maharashtrians at a time when they were celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi.

He also questioned the timing of the tweets. "His comments at this time are intentional and merit criminal action against him. This is a cheap and dirty way to be in the news. This will create social disharmony," Shukla said.

As the director-producer faced an avalanche of criticism, he, in another Twitter post said," All tweets I put on Ganesha were in my usual manner but unintended by me to hurt anyone's sentiments...but if they did, I sincerely

apologize."

Varma, who gave films like 'Satya', 'Shool' and 'Rangeela', had triggered a major controversy when he accompanied the then Maharashtra Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh and his actor son Ritiesh to the Taj Hotel after the 26/11 terror attack. He was said to have gone there to plan a film on the terror assault.

The visit had created a nationwide outcry and ultimately led to Deshmukh's resignation. Varma denied that he had plans to make a film but eventually came up with a movie titled 'The Attacks of 26/11' in 2013.

Ram Gopal Verma sparks off controversy with tweets on Ganesha Chaturthi

Posted by Snow wide No comments

 Film director Ram Gopal Verma sparked off a controversy on Friday with a string of tweets questioning the basis of celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi.

The two tweets said, "Did Lord Ganesha have a paunch in his childhood too or did it develop in the recovery time of the elephant head operation?"

"Can someone tell me if today is the day Ganesha was originally born or is it the day his dad cut his head off?"

When contacted, the filmmaker said, "I already said what I had to say in my tweets. There's nothing more I can say."

However, as his Twitter posts triggered an outrage, Varma took to the microblogging website to tender an apology.

His comments drew strong reactions from leaders across the political divide.

While Shaina NC of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) called it "blasphemous and insensitive", Congress' former MP from Mumbai Sanjay Nirupam demanded police action against him for violating the law of the land.

Prem Shukla of the Shiv Sena described Varma's Twitter comments as an "insult" to the "cultural and religious ethos" of Maharashtrians at a time when they were celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi.

He also questioned the timing of the tweets. "His comments at this time are intentional and merit criminal action against him. This is a cheap and dirty way to be in the news. This will create social disharmony," Shukla said.

As the director-producer faced an avalanche of criticism, he, in another Twitter post said," All tweets I put on Ganesha were in my usual manner but unintended by me to hurt anyone's sentiments...but if they did, I sincerely

apologize."

Varma, who gave films like 'Satya', 'Shool' and 'Rangeela', had triggered a major controversy when he accompanied the then Maharashtra Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh and his actor son Ritiesh to the Taj Hotel after the 26/11 terror attack. He was said to have gone there to plan a film on the terror assault.

The visit had created a nationwide outcry and ultimately led to Deshmukh's resignation. Varma denied that he had plans to make a film but eventually came up with a movie titled 'The Attacks of 26/11' in 2013.

Premier League: Stevan Jovetic double helps Manchester City beat Liverpool 3-1

• 
• 
• 

Stevan Jovetic: Celebrates his second against Liverpool

1/3

PreviousNext

Stevan Jovetic scored either side of half-time to help Manchester City earn a 3-1 Premier League home win over Liverpool.

Slack defending from Reds debutant Alberto Moreno let Jovetic in just before the break at the Etihad Stadium on Monday night, the Montenegro international striker smashing the ball under Simon Mignolet after dispossessing Moreno as he dwelled on the ball.

Best of the Match

• Man of the Match: Stevan Jovetic. Looks rejuvenated after difficult first season.
• Goal of the Match: Stevan Jovetic. Started the move for City's second, and finished it off with aplomb.
• Save of the Match: Joe Hart. Unfortunate the rebound went in, but save from Lambert header was top drawer.
• Talking Points: Did City send a message tonight? Do Liverpool need to strengthen still? Will Balotelli make a difference?

Then after the interval, Jovetic added his and City's second, starting and finishing the move from close range.

Sergio Aguero then added a third a matter of seconds after coming off the bench, latching onto a pinpoint pass from fellow substitute Jesus Navas to make sure of the three points.

Pablo Zabaleta put through his own goal late on, but it was a mere consolation for the visitors.

It was all about City making a statement at the Etihad, and the manner of their emphatic victory certainly sent their title rivals a message.

The first 30 minutes was very cagey, as both teams played some good football without finding a killer pass.

Daniel Sturridge did come close to breaking the deadlock but after beating Vincent Kompany, the England forward fired straight at Joe Hart.

Pellegrini delighted with display

The deadlock was broken four minutes before the break. Samir Nasri clipped the ball into the box, it was half-cleared, but as Moreno dallied on the loose ball, Jovetic nipped in, stole the ball off Moreno's toe and smashed City into a half-time lead.

After the break, City got into their stride quickly, but Liverpool did have the ball in the net, only for Sturridge to be ruled offside.

Edin Dzeko should have done better after being put through, and was soon replaced by Aguero, who made the ultimate impact off the bench.

Rodgers takes the positives

With his first touch, the Argentina striker ran onto Navas’ sublime pass, which was perfectly weighted for Aguero to take in his stride and slot the ball past a stranded Mignolet.

Liverpool did get themselves back into it. Sturridge’s cross was met by the head of substitute Rickie Lambert, whose effort was brilliantly saved by Hart, but Pablo Zabaleta inadvertently put the ball into his own net when trying to clear.

Lambert was again in the clear after a fortunate ricochet, but he elected to pass when he maybe should have been more selfish.

Nasri and Jovetic reaction

Liverpool finished the match with 10 men as Glen Johnson had to go off with an injury, with Brendan Rodgers having already used all his subs.

While not at their blistering best, City were clinical when it really mattered, and in Jovetic, they may have another player who can make a real difference in the title race.

The champions - who rise to third - host Stoke in their next assignment on Saturday, while ninth-placed Liverpool go to Tottenham in the Premier League on Sunday.

Premier League: Stevan Jovetic double helps Manchester City beat Liverpool 3-1

Posted by Snow Wide No comments

• 
• 
• 

Stevan Jovetic: Celebrates his second against Liverpool

1/3

PreviousNext

Stevan Jovetic scored either side of half-time to help Manchester City earn a 3-1 Premier League home win over Liverpool.

Slack defending from Reds debutant Alberto Moreno let Jovetic in just before the break at the Etihad Stadium on Monday night, the Montenegro international striker smashing the ball under Simon Mignolet after dispossessing Moreno as he dwelled on the ball.

Best of the Match

• Man of the Match: Stevan Jovetic. Looks rejuvenated after difficult first season.
• Goal of the Match: Stevan Jovetic. Started the move for City's second, and finished it off with aplomb.
• Save of the Match: Joe Hart. Unfortunate the rebound went in, but save from Lambert header was top drawer.
• Talking Points: Did City send a message tonight? Do Liverpool need to strengthen still? Will Balotelli make a difference?

Then after the interval, Jovetic added his and City's second, starting and finishing the move from close range.

Sergio Aguero then added a third a matter of seconds after coming off the bench, latching onto a pinpoint pass from fellow substitute Jesus Navas to make sure of the three points.

Pablo Zabaleta put through his own goal late on, but it was a mere consolation for the visitors.

It was all about City making a statement at the Etihad, and the manner of their emphatic victory certainly sent their title rivals a message.

The first 30 minutes was very cagey, as both teams played some good football without finding a killer pass.

Daniel Sturridge did come close to breaking the deadlock but after beating Vincent Kompany, the England forward fired straight at Joe Hart.

Pellegrini delighted with display

The deadlock was broken four minutes before the break. Samir Nasri clipped the ball into the box, it was half-cleared, but as Moreno dallied on the loose ball, Jovetic nipped in, stole the ball off Moreno's toe and smashed City into a half-time lead.

After the break, City got into their stride quickly, but Liverpool did have the ball in the net, only for Sturridge to be ruled offside.

Edin Dzeko should have done better after being put through, and was soon replaced by Aguero, who made the ultimate impact off the bench.

Rodgers takes the positives

With his first touch, the Argentina striker ran onto Navas’ sublime pass, which was perfectly weighted for Aguero to take in his stride and slot the ball past a stranded Mignolet.

Liverpool did get themselves back into it. Sturridge’s cross was met by the head of substitute Rickie Lambert, whose effort was brilliantly saved by Hart, but Pablo Zabaleta inadvertently put the ball into his own net when trying to clear.

Lambert was again in the clear after a fortunate ricochet, but he elected to pass when he maybe should have been more selfish.

Nasri and Jovetic reaction

Liverpool finished the match with 10 men as Glen Johnson had to go off with an injury, with Brendan Rodgers having already used all his subs.

While not at their blistering best, City were clinical when it really mattered, and in Jovetic, they may have another player who can make a real difference in the title race.

The champions - who rise to third - host Stoke in their next assignment on Saturday, while ninth-placed Liverpool go to Tottenham in the Premier League on Sunday.