Adarsha committee to keep track of transgenders

Ashodaya Samithi, an organisation involved in the welfare and rehabilitation of sex workers, including transgenders and homosexuals is now on a new mission.

The committee has formed a six members team and have aptly named it as 'Adarsha'. Through Adarsha, the members daily in the evening from 6.30 pm to 9.30 pm will monitor the activities of transgenders, specially those misbehave or create problem to general public.

If any such transgender are traced they will be warned and their activities will be brought to the notice of Police. The committee members have exchanged their motile numbers with Police personnel, to contact in case of emergency. If needed, the Adarsha committee will be expanded.

Addressing the media persons here on Thursday, Samithi Member Pranathi Prakash said that with the help of Police, the team will round up in prominent places of the city, such as D Devaraj Urs Road, Parks at Teresian College, and People's Park in Nazarbad.
 
“With the allegations made by public at the public grievance meet with Police personnel on Sunday, that transgenders are creating nuances, we decided to form the committee and keep the track of transgenders,” added Prakash.
 
Another transgender Girija said that: “168 transgenders have been registered with Ashodaya, of which countable transgenders are said to be misbehaving with public. We are struggling hard to come to the mainstream of society and be a part of society. To fend off black marks, we are chalking out appropriate measures.”

Transgender Rani said that rowdy elements people to visit the park and   public might have mistaken them with transgenders. “We to are exploited. There are instances people misbehaving with us,” she rued.  

Energy park to popularise use of non-conventional energy

To popularise use of non-conventional energy among visitors to the park and localities, plans have been made to establish an 'energy park' inside Kuppanna Park at a cost of Rs 52.7 lakh, of which about Rs 50 lakh will be provided by the Ministry of New and Renewable energy.
The Energy Park houses, solar energy powered cars, water pumps, solar lantern and hybrid wind-solar power cycle. The park will be developed as informative and educative center on solar energy.
The public and tourists who visit Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens and Mysore Palace will be encouraged to visit the park.
Mysore City Corporation Solar Cell unit In-Charge Officer Altaf Ahmed, said that the project has been taken-up under five pilot projects to be commissioned as part of Mysore Solar City.
Solar power to lit city parks
Two famous parks in the city, Kuppanna Park and Cheluvamba Park will soon become 'solar powered'. Solar Photo Voltaic (SPV) panels which can generate upto 8KW peak power will be set-up separately at both the parks that will cut down the consumption of electricity by nearly 70 percent.

Kuppanna Park consumes around 1020 KW of power every month generating a bill of Rs 30,000 while Cheluvamba Park consumes 990 units of power with an approximate bill of Rs 20,000. With the setting up of Solar power plants, the officials estimate that the bill is expected to come down to roughly, Rs 8,000 and Rs 6,800 respectively.

While the effective solar power generated daily at Kuppana Park after working out the reduction due to cloudy weather is 6.87 KW, the same at Cheluvamba Park is about 6.6 kW. Rs 21.6 lakhs has been sanctioned for each park. Work on erecting the panels will begin from January, 2014 and is expected to be completed within four months. The excess power generated will be connected to grid.
Altaf Ahmed said that around 100 sq feet of the park space will be used to set up the solar power plant which also includes a power room to house the batteries and inverter.

Future Flow to ease the work of colleges

Hitherto, colleges associated with Department of Collegiate Education, coming under Mysore jurisdiction, need not visit regional office every time to submit official letters of correspondence or documents for approvals. The Department has launched 'Future Flow File Movement System', a Workflow Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), a customised electronic method to keep a close tab on the movement of files.

By logging to the website www.rjdcemys.in, the colleges can update the correspondence letter. Similarly the college receives an inward communication, along with the details of the officer who is corresponding the file. A file number will be automatically assigned to each correspondence for future tracking.

With this, the colleges can keep track of the file at every step of its movement by just clicking on 'Track Your File' link by entering the provided user id and password. In case of delays they can even raise a complaint.

Mysore Division of the Dept. of Higher Education comprises districts of Mysore, Mandya, Hassan and Chamarajanagar, to which around 103 colleges are affiliated, which includes 38 private aided first grade colleges. As more than 2500 faculty members work under this zone, the amount of correspondence generated daily is quite enormous. Thanks to the initiative of former Joint Director TN Prabhakar, who is the brain child of the project.

Future Design Technology Proprietor Naveen Kavirathna who has developed the software informed that in case any delay in the completion of the correspondence, it will be recorded and the Joint Director can take action against the erring official. The software has come as a boon for colleges and helps to ensure transparency and timely completion of work, he added.

The Mysore University Private College Teachers’ Association (MUPCTA) has sponsored Rs 3 lakh for the project. Association President Dr Raju said that colleges will immensely benefit form this software.

'Earlier colleges after submitting the letters of correspondence had to wait for several days to receive a reply. But, henceforth it will not be the same,' said a College Principal.

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Future Flow yet to take of to quicken movement of files

Express  News Service
Mysore, December 9

Programme to quicken movement of files at Collegiate Education department yet to take off. Department of Collegiate Education, Mysore Region, had launched the programme 'Future Flow File Movement System', a Workflow Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), a customised electronic method to keep a close tab on the movement of files.

But unfortunately, even after more than one and half months of the launch of the programme, the department has failed to adopt the technology, citing shortage of Human Resources.
 
Mysore Division of the Dept. of Higher Education comprises districts of Mysore, Mandya, Hassan and Chamarajanagar, to which around 103 colleges are affiliated, which includes 38 private aided first grade colleges. More than 2500 faculty members work under this zone, and the amount of correspondence generated daily is quite enormous.

With the adoption of the technology, the college staff need not visit regional office every time to submit official letters of correspondence or documents for approvals. It will not only save time, money of the colleges, but helps to ensure transparency and timely completion of work.
 
Mysore Region Joint Director Nataraj Urs said that though the software is ready, due to shortage of human resources they have not yet adopted the programme and steps will be taken to implement the same at the earliest.

Future Design Technology Proprietor Naveen Kavirathna who has developed the software said that there is no need of human resources for the adoption of the software, its on-line process.

The Mysore University Private College Teachers’ Association President Dr Raju said that they have approached Commissioner to adopt the technology and give instructions for the Mysore Region Join Director to adopt the technology at the earliest. The associated had sponsored Rs 3 lakh for the implementation of the project.

Know Future Flow

'Earlier colleges after submitting the letters of correspondence had to wait for several days to receive a reply. But, by the implementation of the programme it will not be the same.

The colleges by logging to the website www.rjdcemys.in, can update the correspondence letter. Similarly the college receives an inward communication, along with the details of the officer who is corresponding the file. A file number will be automatically assigned to each correspondence for future tracking.  

The colleges can keep track of the file at every step of its movement by just clicking on 'Track Your File' link by entering the provided user id and password. In case of any delays in the completion of the correspondence, they can even raise a complaint. Joint Director can take action against the erring official.      

Moderate response for Hop on Hop Off

One of the most aspirational project of Tourism department launched during dasara is the 'Hop on Hop off bus' service, which takes tourist to 16 city sightseeing's points, including major tourist attraction places like Palace, Zoo, Karanji Lake, Chamundi Hill, Jaganmohan Palace and famous landmarks of the city.


Though the initiative is good and promotes tourism, the truth is majority of them are not aware of the service provided. Even a day after the service launched, the officials have not yet introduced the Regular KSRTC buses for the service, which cost around Rs 60. Only four volvo buses (Rs 100) are flying in Mysore, which received a lukewarm response.


With lack of publicity, specially in city bus stand, where the tour point commence, the people were seen waiting for the regular buses to reach their tourist points. The Dasara Tourism Sub-committee has neither set-up an kiosks at the city bus stand, nor any postures, banners are displayed containing the details of the service.


When inquired with couple of foreigners they said they were not at all aware of the service in Mysore. When asked are localities they were seen winking eyes as though they are hearing the name for the first time.


A foreigner Philipis Soleman from German expressing surprise questioned: “Is really Hop on Hop off bus service is available in Mysore. It will be of great help for tourists if promoted. During my tour to London, I had enjoyed the service,” he added.


V Yashoda who had come from Hunsur with relatives for city to be part of dasara said, she is taking the relatives to Chamundi Hill and she had no idea about the 'HoHo' bus service. Dasara Sub-Committee Member and KSRTC Divisional Controller HM Ramesh said that kiosks will be set-up by Monday and measures will be taken to provide information about the service.

Tangible heritage of city introduced to youngsters

To introduce the rich tangible heritage of city, a Heritage Walk was organised by Department of Archaeology, Museums and Heritage in Royal City Mysore on Monday.


With the message “Help, Preserve, Conserve and Protect our Rich Heritage,” hundreds of citizens, including youngsters in large number took part at the heritage walk. The youngsters had assembled in front of Town Hall around 7 am, with keen interest to know the history of various heritage buildings in the city.


They walked around for two kilometers knowing about the huge structures of significant architectural and aesthetic importance of the buildings such as CAVA, KR Hospital, KR Circle, Clock Tower, Dufferin Clock Tower, Ambavilas Palace, Ayurveda Hospital.

The rally also stressed to create awareness among younger generation about conservation of heritage structures, and their role in preventing disfiguring historical monuments and heritage buildings.


62-year-old Vittal Raj who is taking part in heritage walk from last three years said that its responsible of everyone to protect our heritage structures, which has history of more than hundred years. “Policy makers should be educated about protection and conservation of heritage structures,” he added.


Youngsters should also be made aware of the local arts, crafts, traditional games, folklore and village fairs which are integral part of our cultural heritage. Our natural surroundings, hills, valleys, lakes, are all part of our natural heritage, added V Balasubramanyam who is in sixties.


Some of the walkers opined that the Heritage Department should take measures to distribute the booklets for populace, containing the information of heritage structures in and around city, and their responsibility in protection the heritage structures.


Speaking on the occasion, Kannada and Culture Minister Umashree said that appropriate measures will be taken by government to preserve the heritage structures of Mysore.

Tangible heritage of city introduced to youngsters

To introduce the rich tangible heritage of city, a Heritage Walk was organised by Department of Archaeology, Museums and Heritage in Royal City Mysore on Monday.


With the message “Help, Preserve, Conserve and Protect our Rich Heritage,” hundreds of citizens, including youngsters in large number took part at the heritage walk. The youngsters had assembled in front of Town Hall around 7 am, with keen interest to know the history of various heritage buildings in the city.


They walked around for two kilometers knowing about the huge structures of significant architectural and aesthetic importance of the buildings such as CAVA, KR Hospital, KR Circle, Clock Tower, Dufferin Clock Tower, Ambavilas Palace, Ayurveda Hospital.

The rally also stressed to create awareness among younger generation about conservation of heritage structures, and their role in preventing disfiguring historical monuments and heritage buildings.


62-year-old Vittal Raj who is taking part in heritage walk from last three years said that its responsible of everyone to protect our heritage structures, which has history of more than hundred years. “Policy makers should be educated about protection and conservation of heritage structures,” he added.


Youngsters should also be made aware of the local arts, crafts, traditional games, folklore and village fairs which are integral part of our cultural heritage. Our natural surroundings, hills, valleys, lakes, are all part of our natural heritage, added V Balasubramanyam who is in sixties.


Some of the walkers opined that the Heritage Department should take measures to distribute the booklets for populace, containing the information of heritage structures in and around city, and their responsibility in protection the heritage structures.


Speaking on the occasion, Kannada and Culture Minister Umashree said that appropriate measures will be taken by government to preserve the heritage structures of Mysore.

Study on socio-economic status of tribal communities

Karnataka Folk University is conducting a research on four tribal communities which are on the verge of extinction. The aim of the research is to preserve and carry forward the socio-economic uniqueness of these tribals to the next generation, before they are completely converted by the modern world.

The research will be conducted at Mysore, Mandya, Chamarajanagar and Ramnagar districts and the chosen tribal communities are Kampanabedas, Soligas, Jenukurubas and Kadukurubas.

Everything right from their living style, food habits, worship, customs, family values will be documented to the last detail which helps in the study. As majority of these surviving tribals who are still following their ancestral customs are illiterate, audio and visual documentation is being done.

They are renowned as ardent worshipers of Lord Mahadeshwara atop Malle Mahadeshwara Hills. A team of 13 Research Assistants, including the Project Director Banjegere Jayaprakash is involved in the research considered to be the first of its kind.

Folk University Vice-Chancellor Ambalike Hiriyanna speaking to Express, said that there were around 50 tribal communities in Karnataka, and plans have been made to conduct research on atleast 37 of these tribal communities in a phased manner.

“The tribals residing in forests are encountering several problems. So measures will be taken to sort out their problems by assisting them wherever possible,” he added, stating Anthropoligical Survey of India, has also conducted a survey on the communities, but not in detail as they are proposing to do now.

In addition to the the study of the tribals, a documentation of the 'Madappa cult' (known locally as Parishe) has also be taken up by the University. The three year research project has began two months ago and an exclusive center has been established atop Mahadeshwara Hills, named as 'Karnataka Folklore University Regional Center'.

Ambalike Hiriyanna said that more than 50 students have enrolled for the course and majority of them hail from Kollegal. They are presently undergoing a ten month certified course on folkarts like Kamsale, folk dance, dollu kunitha, veerghase kunitha, veera makkala kunitha, kasuthi (embroidery), Samara Kale (martial Arts) and others that introduces them to how the tribals are living, making it easier for them to do the study.

Miniature bird sanctuary inaugurated at Karanji Lake

The Karanji Lake Nature Park is emerged as one of the tourist centers with nature conservation concept as integral and core theme. Added to its glory, Karanji Lake Nature Park will now serve as a miniature bird sanctuary, where birds are taking shelter and breeding.

Some of indigenous pheasants and birds like Budgerigas, Peach-faced, Love Birds, Java Sparrow, Phim Headed parakeet, Red Jungle Fowl, Yellow Golden Pheasant, Silver Pheasant, Lady Amherst Pheasant have been housed in twelve enclosures with six partition measuring 8' x 16' provided with toughened glass for viewing by the visitors.

The total cost of the enclosures including the development of park is Rs 25 lakh. CAVA students have beautiful created art works in the enclosures using pleasant colours.

In the Children Park about 30 equipments like Four Seater Arc Swing, A to B Net Scrambler, Multi Seater See Saw, Spiral Slide and many more attractive items have been installed for children below 12 years to play and enjoy.
Speaking after inauguration, Karnataka Zoo Authority Chairman Nanjundaswamy said that by visiting lake visitors can enjoy perching sound of birds, boating, and various others enriched facilities.

Stating the inauguration of enclosures will increase the number of visitors, he said that already existence facilities such as walk through aviary, natural birds watch tower, Butterfly Park, lush green lawns, boating and walking path are attracting thousands of visitors per day. To further improve the habitat of migratory birds, strengthening of islands has been initiated, he added.

The sprawling area of 90 acres of Karanji Lake Nature Park has about 50 per cent of water spread area. The entry fee for the Lake holds Rs 10.

Energy park to popularise use of non-conventional energy

To popularise use of non-conventional energy among visitors to the park and localities, plans have been made to establish an 'energy park' inside Kuppanna Park at a cost of Rs 52.7 lakh, of which about Rs 50 lakh will be provided by the Ministry of New and Renewable energy.
The Energy Park houses, solar energy powered cars, water pumps, solar lantern and hybrid wind-solar power cycle.

The park will be developed as informative and educative center on solar energy. The public and tourists who visit Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens and Mysore Palace will be encouraged to visit the park.

Mysore City Corporation Solar Cell unit In-Charge Officer Altaf Ahmed, said that the project has been taken-up under five pilot projects to be commissioned as part of Mysore Solar City.

Solar power to lit city parks
Two famous parks in the city, Kuppanna Park and Cheluvamba Park will soon become 'solar powered'. Solar Photo Voltaic (SPV) panels which can generate upto 8KW peak power will be set-up separately at both the parks that will cut down the consumption of electricity by nearly 70 percent.

Kuppanna Park consumes around 1020 KW of power every month generating a bill of Rs 30,000 while Cheluvamba Park consumes 990 units of power with an approximate bill of Rs 20,000. With the setting up of Solar power plants, the officials estimate that the bill is expected to come down to roughly, Rs 8,000 and Rs 6,800 respectively.

While the effective solar power generated daily at Kuppana Park after working out the reduction due to cloudy weather is 6.87 KW, the same at Cheluvamba Park is about 6.6 kW. Rs 21.6 lakhs has been sanctioned for each park. Work on erecting the panels will begin from January, 2014 and is expected to be completed within four months. The excess power generated will be connected to grid.

Altaf Ahmed said that around 100 sq feet of the park space will be used to set up the solar power plant which also includes a power room to house the batteries and inverter.

Now access Research articles of Mysore varsity online

ePrints@UoM is a novel initiative undertaken by the University of Mysore, with the objective of collecting, digitizing and uploading online all Research articles hitherto published by the faculty, research scholars and students of the University, since its inception 97 years ago in 1916.

With this backdrop, “Digital Repository of Research, Innovation and Scholarship” has been set up at Mysore University Library. The library staff aim to collect an approximated 25,000 scholarly research articles published by University for the over last nine decades and update the publications in gradual phases. The oldest item added is a book “The philosophy of Rabindranath Tagore” by Dr S Radhakrishnan published in 1919.

The librarians who are working relentlessly since May, have collected more than 8,400 publications including journal articles, conference papers, books, book reviews, presentations, reports and patents, which can be freely accessed online through the Institutional Repository at the site http://eprints.uni-mysore.ac.in/

The open access digital library software ePrints has been used in setting up of this repository. One can browse publications by year, subjects, divisions of the varsity, author and document type. Both simple and advanced search features have been given for facilitating specific searches.

The main objectives of this repository is to facilitate long-term preservation of scholarly work done earlier and pursued in future and facilitate UoM members an easy and rapid way to publish and archive their research locally.

The repository which provides an integrated view, act as a single entry point to scholarly work of UoM and as a self-evaluation tool for the UoM management. By going through the publications, the upcoming researchers can get new idea, views and people from all walks of life make use of the publications.

The librarians said that with no comprehensive records available to clearly indicate the number of articles of University published since its inception in various national, international journals and conferences, they have decided to search various full text and bibliographic databases and also collect publications by approaching faculty members and research scholars.

“If one takes into account of records of an individual organisation added to its IR, the ePrints@UoM gets the first rank among the universities of its kind in the country, next only to IRs of IISc and IIT, Mumbai”, said Library Adviser cum Visiting Professor Dr IRN Goudar.

Download freely

Most of the publications are directly accessible and full-texts downloadable, if the publication is in open access or if their institution has the accessibility to the concerned journal/publisher. 'Request a Copy' forms can be used for documents to which direct full-text download is restricted due to publisher embargo.

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The University of Mysore stands first among eight universities in Karnataka for its 36 per cent of downloads of library materials.

ATME-AANCHAL to keep molesters at bay

 

A jersey that would help women to keep the molesters at bay has been developed by faculties of ATME College. The jersey would work as a 'powerful weapon' for safety seeking women as it can transmit shocking waves at just a touch of a stranger.

The designed compact Microelectronics circuit cloth (jersey) incorporates electric shock waves which is controlled and operated by the girl. At any point the girl feel unsafe, uncomfortable she can just wear the jersey, which is like a rain coat and activate gadget inside the jersey and give a shock immobilising for thirty minutes. She can activate repeatedly based on her decision on her security.

Immediately the top and bottom jersey acts like an electric shock unit, simultaneously transmitting emergency protocol of her precise location to her caring person cell phone. If needed the girl can activate SOS butt on (emergency protocol) to the nearest police station. Soon the parent or police can address the issue and save the girl.

“The circuit can't be removed by rapist, this provides high level of security, if needed the activation can be controlled by a code from her cell phone and only the girl can deactivate the AANCHAL. With the precious thirty minutes of time the girl can have multiple options for escaping from rapist,” says faculties B S Manusudhan, and S Sowmya Sudhan, who innovated the AANCHAL with the help of student S Manunatha, R Avinash, Ashwini, Sushma, Karthik and Sharath . The team have applied for a patent.

Advantages

The AANCHAL cloth coated with water resistant material avoids shocks during rainy season, but the electric shocker for the rapist works 365 days 24 hours. The Microelectronics circuit can't be removed by stranger and no external people can ever think of touching her or damaging the circuit. 

Only the girl can operate internally and no external people can ever think of touching her or damaging the circuit. Even if the rapist attempt with hands gloves, the girl can give electric shock by touching her jersey to rapist body. The rapist cant think of touching the girl from anyways.

Jumbos returned back to their camps

Elephants and mahouts left the palace along with 14 dasara elephants on Thursday, after successful completion of Dasara assignment. The elephants have left a niche, enthralling lakhs of people.

During their stay in palace for about 45 days, the place had turned a mini elephant camp and a hot tourist spot, attracting thousands of tourists from dawn to dusk. Tourist catching pictures of pachyderms in their cell phones and cameras was common sight witnessed all these days.

The scenes of elephants care takers giving bath for elephants in the pond, women folk cooking food and washing cloth, children playing round the elephant and wandering across palace were missing on the day. Soon they left the place, a shadow of silence covered at palace grounds.

The elephants were transported in a lorry to their respective camps such as K Gudi Camp, Mathigud Camp, Dubare Forest and Balle Elephant camp. Elephants Gopi and Gopalswamy were first loaded to lorries stating the elephants are adamant.

The women and children were seen waiting in front of their temporary shelters for arrival of lorry. Soon after the traditional puja performed by Palace Pontiff Prahallad, jaggery, sugarcane, coconut were offered to jumbos. Deputy Commissioner C Shikha gave adieu for the jumbos.

The children and family members left the palace waving hands for the tourists, with a sign of relief in face.

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Elephants left palace with heavy weight !

Elephant Arjuna who carried 750 kg golden howdah has gained additional weight of 275 kgs. When he arrived to palace, he was 5535 kg, while leaving he was 5810. In the same the weight of Gajendra was 5072 against 4755; Balaram 5295 against 4630; Abhimanyu 5250 against 4870; Varalakshmi 3205 against 2965, Sarala 3345 against 3290. The other elephants which took part in dasara festivies are Vikram, Vijay, Harsha, Sriram, Gopi, Prashanth, Durga Parmeshwari and Gopalkrishna.

 

Home is the school for this wonder kid !

 

In this era of globalisation hooked up with competitions, children are sent to convents to face the challenging world. But, home is the school and parents are teachers for Abhigya, a wonder kid, who is learning the 5th grade books at home and knows to read and write Sanskrit, Tamil, Kannada, English, and also speaks a bit of German.

Eight-year-old Abhigya memory makes one mesmerised. He chants 14 full chapters comprising 570 Slokas from the Bhagavad Gita by memory. All this he picked up in 9 months. He wishes to chant the entire 18 chapters of the Gita out of memory on Gita Jayanthi day.

He used to identify 40 flags of different countries and more than 50 car models just by glancing at them at the age of two and half year. At present he identifies more than 100 car models and about 125 herbs from the book titled 'Secrets of Indian Herbs'. If a picture is shown, he says the botanical name of each herb and its usage.

With the help of Youtube and his mother Annu, he has learnt to pronounce Bhagavad Gita correctly. For socialising he is being taken to a nearby MCF Government school at Belagola daily for two hours.

Wearing a Thulsi Mala and Tilak, he starts chanting mantras. He says: “I love to teach Bhagavad Gita verses to children and read books of Amar Chitrakathas.” He has read more than 500 Amar Chitra Katha stories till date and has chanted 6 chapters of Bhagawadgita at temples in Melbourne, Mysore and Bangalore. He enjoys reading newspapers, books and interested in learning 'Kalaripayattu' more than Karate. He had learnt Jiujitsu during his stay in Melbourne.

When his sister Abhidheya was suffering from dengue symptoms, he had suggested the herbal medicine for his parents, from which his sister recovered. Even she chants around 80 verses by hearing her brother.

Parents Anand and Annu who don't believe in today's boxed system of education say, they will enroll their wards in any school, that will allow self paced education and provide the comfort zone to learn the subjects of their interest and not bog them down with homework.

“Due to my IT profession, I had the opportunity to live in eight different countries across Europe, US Australia and Canada for the last 13 years. Just eight months ago we came to Mysore,” said Anand, who has quit his job and wish to become organic farmer.

Tremendous response for power consumption LEDs

The sale of LED serial sets has registered a drastic jump during this year's Dasara festivities. Majority of the shop owners, houses have adorned their vicinities using variety of colourful LEDs serial sets which are in pleasing colours of green, blue, white, purple, orange and other multi-colour serial sets.

The tremendous response is due to the illumination of city during dasars festivities using LEDs. Thanks for the initiative of Chamundeshwari Electricity Supply who replaced incandescent bulbs with eco-friendly LED lights which cosumes less power and also generates less heat.

Kumara, who takes contract of illuminating for ceremonies, said he has illuminated about 12 shops, hotels and 18 houses in Rajeev Nagar, NR Mohalla belt using LEDs. “Majority of the people are asking for LED lights. There is good demand for both single colour as well as multi colour LED serial sets.”

Amit Sait, who sales China made items at KT Street said he has sold good number of serial sets this year. These sets also last longer and are easy to mount anywhere by just sticking them with a cello pone tape.”

Fathima Begum, resident of NR Mohalla said: “After witnessing the illumination in heart of the city, I took initiative to decorate my house using same colour LED. The bulbs are not only attractive, whereas eye catching and have learnt that consumes less power.”

Raju, a shop owner said: “The Chinese made serial sets are easily available and quite affordable. I have purchased the serial lights which comes in various shapes and colours to decorate shop in festival occasions.”

Day out for Mahouts family members

Sky was high for the family members of mahouts and kavadi who ventured out to tour prominent places of Mysore. For first time they were taken on tour for prominent tourists destination like KRS, Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, Srirangapatna and Chamundi Hill.

The family members were seen dressed neatly and waiting for the bus to travel in and around Mysore. What made more surprising and memorable event for many is climbing the public transport for first time.

They were very much amused to watch the animals in the cages. The children innocently were seen questioning their parents why the animals, birds have been kept in arrest at Zoo, and why not in forest. Some of them even expressed sympathy for the animals, stating its good the animals, birds wander freely in their place. 

After viewing the statue of demon Mahishasura atop chamundi hill, the discussions were on among them and later they left for Srirangapatna, seeking blessing from goddess Chamundeshwari.

Bhagya said: “This is first time am climbing the bus and second time coming to Mysore. I have traveled in truck," she added.Shashithamma said she woked up around 6 am and waited for the bus arrival to make sure that she gets seat near window. 

 

“We are extremely happy and eager to round up the city. We had seen only Palace, but now we have got the opportunity to see other places,” she added.

Social Worker Roopa Kala who accompanied the mahouts said they are happily enjoying the trip, singing folkart songs, and putting steps for tribal dances.

After flagging-off the buses, MLA MK Somashekar said that the mahouts family members will be made introduce to prominent four tourist destinations, and will continue the legacy every year. From next year measures will be taken to introduce more tourists places,” he added.

About 230 mahouts and kavadis family members toured the city in three buses, exclusively arranged by Dasara Darshana Sub-Committee. 

A special food arrangements were made for them at Srirangapatna, which include Chicken Biriyani, Mutton fry, gravy, banana and a pan beda after their food were provided.

 

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Russians spread peace message

 

Its not only tableaux drew the attention of lakhs of people on procession route, whereas a peace march by Russian troupe also took center note. 

As many as 28 Russians from St Peter's Berg in white and white, passed over the five kilometers stretch spreading the message of unity, peace, and harmony.

Alice said:" This is out first visit to Mysore. We thought this will be perfect platform to spread peace message among lakhs of people." 

Holding placards displaying the messages like: 'A real king is the one who rules upon his own sense organs', 'freedom from vices is true independence', and much more they spread the peace messages among public. 

They were seen waving hands and drawing attention of the huge crowd. They are the members of Brahma Kumari Wing in Russian, which is existing from last 25 years. They will be staying in Mysore for some more days and will be presenting a cultural programme by this month end.

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Water, buttermilk quench the thirst of artistes 

Thanks for the initiative of several organisation which tried to quench the thirst of artistes, women and children across procession route.

SPI had set up 25kiosks to supply water for artistes, women and children on procession route. This is first time they had set up the kiosks for every 100 meters. Volunteer Shivananda said in every kiosks five members are working and they have distributed water for about 30,000 people.

Dr Rajkumar Fans Association members were seen distributing buttermilk for police personnel and artistes at KR Circle. Member Manju said they are distributing 200 liters of butter milk.' Volunteers of Vasavi Seva Dhal also distributed 2000 (1/2 liter) water bottles, and distributed about 30 cans of water.

Dollu Kunitha Ariste Siddamma said that this is the first time they are getting sufficient amount of water to drink across procession route and quench their thirst.

Gaja Payana: The Journey of jumbos begins

The first batch of elephants, which will be part of Mysore Dasara Mahotsava -2013 began their journey from woods of Nagarahole National Park to Royal city Mysore on Wednesday.

Praying goddess Chamundeshwari, 'Gaja Payana', a ritual of welcoming and bringing elephants for dasara festival (October 5 to 14), was kicked off with religious fervour and cultural note at Nagapura Girijana School, Veerana Hosahalli at Hunsur Taluk here on Wednesday.

Five elephants such as Balaram, Abhimanyu, Sarala, Varalakshmi including the howdah Arjuna elephant were welcomed by elected representatives, officials and villagers with due respect by performing traditional puja.

The elephants were decked up with colourful flowers, and ornaments. After formal inauguration of the event, the elephants were transported in trucks from Nagapura to Mysore Palace. Another elephant Gajendra on route accompanied the elephants in Palace. The second batch of elephants is expected to arrive on next months.

These elephants will take part in the 403^rd World Famous Dasara Jumboo Savari to be held on October 14. They will be taken care for more than one and half month in Mysore providing needed rich and superior quality meals.

Priest Prahalada Rao said that from last 13 years he is taking part in the puja rituals of Gajapayana and the number of people turning to take part in the ceremony is increasing year to year.

Nagapura Hamlet Tribal children put steps for traditional songs. While, Gurupura Tibetan Colony children staged performance for 'Choelca Sum', traditional Tibetan Dance on the occasion.

Veeraghase Kunitha by artistes of Gavadagere and Kamsale by Valmiki Yuvakara Sangha of Periyapatna was performed. About 51 girls and women of Sharada Swasahayaka Sangha and Chamdeshwari Sangha of Doddahejjur gave 'Purnakumba' welcome for the elephants, considered it as auspicious.

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Title deeds for Tribals

Revenue and District in-charge Minister V Srinivasa Prasad after inaugurating Gaja Payana, assured of distributing Title deeds for families of tribals who have relocated from reserved forest area. He said talks has been held with concerned MLA's in this regard and soon decision will be taken.

He further said that Mysore dasara attracts people from world wide and measures have been taken to give tourists good hospitality and follow the tradition of Yadu Vamsha. Deputy Commissioner C Shikha, ZP and TP members were present.

Highlights

*The elephants were offered with jaggery and dry coconuts during Gaja Payana.

* Sarala and Varalakshmi are taking part in the dasara festivities after gap of two years, as they had given birth for calves.

* Mahouts and their family members will stay in the temporary sheds which will be erected at palace premises.

Know about elephants

* Arjuna: Male, 53 year old (5100 kg) from Balle Elephant Camp. He will be carrying 750 kg golden howdah for second time. Mahout Dodda Masti.

* Balarama: Male, 55 year old (4950 kg) from Thitimathi Elephant Camp. He is taking part in Dasara activites from last 17 years and has carried golden chariot for 13 times. Mahout Thimma.

* Gajendra: Male, 58 year old (4560 kg) from K Gudi Elephant Camp. He is taking part in Dasara activites from last 17 years and has carried golden chariot for 16 times and this is 'Pattada Anne'. Mahout Rama.

* Abhimanyu: Male, 47 year-old (4650 kg) from Thitimathi Elephant Camp. He is taking part in Dasara activities from last 14 years and he pulls the chariot of Musicians during Dasara. Mahout Vasanth.

* Sarala: Female, 71 year-old (3250 kg) from Balle Elephant Camp.

She is part of Dasara from last 14 years. Mahout Srirama.

* Varamahalakshmi: Female, 58 years old from Balle Elephant Camp.

She is part of Dasara from last 8 years. Mahout Gunda. Both these female elephants are 'Kumki' elephants (Chaperon) for Arjuna.

Information on Agriculture for students, citizens

Growing veggies in school campus will not only nurture skills of the students, whereas provides fresh vegetables, greens for Midday meal, which indeed helps to combat with malnutrition and inflation. With this backdrop, Kalpavruksha Trust is planning to provide agriculture information for children, teachers with the launch of programme 'Nutritious Farm'. The trust has selected 100 rural schools in Mysore district under first phase and will extend gradually.
Trust Secretary Rajaram said that majority of the schools don't have first hand information on how to nurture plants. “We have visited several schools, where we have witnessed the veggies are grown in unscientific way (under Sarva Shikshan Abhiyan Ki Thoota). By growing them in right way good yield can be obtained and will be sufficient for Mid day meal.”
Scientist Dr Vasanth Kumar said that Apart from Food Security importance should be given for 'Nutritional Security'. Distributing Milk and Iron Tablets to children will provide calcium and iron contents. But, for other mineral contents fruits, vegetables should be provided.
“Hike in prices of essential commodities is burning the pocket of consumers. In every household using small pots the needed vegetables for their use can be grown. The trust will educate them in scientific way of harvesting short-term crops (two-three months),” said Sadananda, another member.
A team of six persons work under the programme, under the guidance of Agriculture Scientist Dr Vasanth Kumar. They will also educate general public about the right processes to be followed while seeding and how to harvest healthier and organic veggies in their vicinity. The trust will distribute seeds, manure, saplings, hoe, and other needed tools freely for the school. As the vegetables reaches from garden to table, it will be of fresh and high in nutritious value.



Short-term veggies
Daily use vegetables like Brinjal, Ladies fingure, Tomato, Chilli, knol khol, cabbage, Cauliflower, bottle gourd, pumpkin, ridge gourd, radish, carrot, betroot, green leaves, can be grown easily within span of short time. By growing long-term crops like Ivy Gourd, chayote squash, Flat beans or Broad beans, moringa tree (fast growing drumstick tree), papaya, Cheek, Guava trees children get all sorts of mineral contents. For seeds and other queries contact 91648 37773.

Rise of the Rubans to drive the engine of economic growth

There is an emerging new breed of rural youth rich in untapped talent bubbling with entrepreneurial spirit and having access to latest technological gadgets. They now go by the name 'Rubans' a truncation for Rural-Urbans. 

This is the initiative of SDM IMD Institution and Head Held High (HHH), a Bangalore-based social enterprise, to address the need of rural populace with access to urban levels of information and help them integrate with the main society, thereby creating an inclusive growth environment in the society.

HHH conducts survey 'Rubanomics' to study the changing rural dynamics of economies governing and build business models that target the new Rural-Urbans. 

Whereas, the Institution creates platform for the academia to engage with rural talent, entrepreneurs, consumers and communities through summer projects, case studies and publishing of research papers alongside holding workshops. It also give direction to mesh rural and urban opportunities by engaging the power of talent and technology. The academia plan to make Rubanomics mainstream not only in academic circles but also in the corporate world.

SDM IMD Director Dr Parasuraman said: “Rubanomics is a new venture of Institution, committed to rural development, social exposure and ethics as part of the curriculum for management students. Our focus is on exposing and sensitising our budding managers to social reality. This initiative will help them engage with the new Rubans to create an inclusive growth environment for our country.”

Elaborating on the role of Rubanomics in the new rural India, HHH Chairman Madan Padaki said that Rubanomics will unleash the talent and entrepreneurial spirit of the Rubans. Rubanomics will strengthen this revolution, creating opportunity platforms for talent, entrepreneurs, consumers and communities in rural India, thereby adding to the economic prosperity of the nations.”

The Institute brought out a special publication on 'Rubanomics' that is 'RubanEye', containing learned articles, papers and summarised summer project reports on the highly relevant subject of Rural and Social economics.

Training programme

A six month residential training programme was provided under the programme for about 800 Rubans. Now they have transformed themselves from low literate to English speaking, computer literate knowledge workers in record time. About 90 percent of them have get appointment in service companies in and around Mysore.

Its Chamundeshwari blessings that brings folk artistes to Dasara, not honorarium

One of the main attractions of Dasara procession is the live performances by folk artistes who come from different parts of the state. Over a thousand artistes perform on the five kilometer stretch of the Jamboo Savari showcasing a wide variety of culture, tradition and talent and thus providing a visual treat to lakhs of people. But, little has been known that the honararium they receive is nothing but peanuts and what makes them keep a date without the Naada Habba without fail is the blessings of Goddess Chamundeshwari and appreciation of the people.

As many as 35 troupes, consisting of 15 to 20 members take part in the event. Artistes from across state arrive one day in advance to city. Each artiste is paid a meager Rs 500 for taking part in procession. They have to take care of the costumes, make-up, etc. within the meager amount and will have nothing left with them when they are back home. The bus fare will be provided separately.

But the artistes say that there are instances where they have failed to catch the public transport and have hired private vehicle. As a result they have to shell out more money from their pockets toward the personalised transport to perform in the Dasara activities.

Folk Artistes Federation President L Mahadevappa Udigala said that for the last six years the pleas made by the artistes have not been heeded to. “Neither are we paid with good monetary remuneration nor provided with proper arrangements to stay in the city during Dasara. Though taking part every year in the Dasara activities has become quite expensive, we are emotionally, attached with 'Naada Habba and cant miss it.'

Mahadevappa accompanied with his troupe carrying Nandi Dhwaja of 125 kg is participating in the procession from last 46 years.

Nandi Dhwaja artiste Mallesh, explaining the problems faced by them said: “Food and accommodation for men will be arranged at Nanjaraja Bhaddur Choultry, while for women at government schools or lodges. Coming from far off places we face lot of difficulties without proper sanitation and accommodation.”

The artistes have submitted memorandum to District in-charge Minister V Srinivasa Prasad, requesting Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to hike their remuneration to Rs 1000 and also bear all the other expenses. They also urged to appoint artistes for Dasara sub-committees.

Watch movie at Multiplexes for Rs 20

Thanks this coming Dasara, the Government has subsidised the fee to just Rs 20 where selected movies will be screened at the city's Multiplexes housed in Malls. The same is also true with Drive-in movies where one can watch a movie outdoor at free of cost.

At the Dasara film festival to be held from October 5 to 12 at four different venues. In theaters, Rs 5 for ground floor and Rs 10 will be charged for balcony. In all other venues the movies will be screened at free of cost.

“As the entry fee at multiplex was beyond the reach of a common man, several of them have not made an attempt to watch the movies at multiplex. This will be really a advantage for many of the first time visitors to watch the movies in multiples. The initiative of government has helped a Aam Admi,” said auto driver Iqbal Pasha.

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Cine goers enjoy movies at multiplexes


“The pleasure of watching the movie siting in the air conditioned hall at Multiplexes is great. This is my first visit to Multiplex and I enjoyed my favorite hero movie on the screen,” said Chandrashekar, resident of Hassan, who watched the movie in DRC on Monday.


Thanks for the initiative of Dasara Film Sub-committee, which provided the opportunity for hundreds of avid cine goers to watch the movie at Multiplexes during dasara festivities for just Rs 20. On normal days the tickets for Kannada movies is Rs 120 and other languages is Rs 150.

Making use of the opportunity for the best, people from all walks of life, specially the first time visitors in large number are thronging for the multiplexes to watch the movie at the affordable fee with a advanced feeling. Those who had once turned back, are also now heading towards multiplexes to watch the movies and are getting the feel of watching the movies in Malls.

Interestingly, from last three days, hundreds of disappointed movie buffs have returned back after the tickets were sold out for the movies screened like Chennai Express, Bagh Milkha Bagh, Krantiveera Sangolli Rayanna, Myna, and Directors Special. The response for the movie Sarathi screened on Monday, was moderate with 165 tickets were sold out of 278 seats available.


DRC Manager Vaishali said that there is very good response and tickets were sold out lite hot cakes on first two days. “To facilitate more number of people we are screening the movies in big screen of 278 seats from Monday, which was 207 earlier,” she added.


Lukewarm response at theaters


Though good number of rare English movies are screened at Senate Bhavan and Rani Bahaddur Auditorium, the response is moderate for the films, as the movies attracts only a section of cine goers.

Film Sub-Committee President AR Prakash said that from last three days every day an average of 400 to 450 persons are watching the movies at both the venues, which has the seating capacity of about 1300 together.

The Response at Woodlands, New Opera and Santhala theater is of no exception, where popular Kannada films are being screened.


Disappointed for cine goers

Most of the avid cine goers in the city are disappointed as the different movies are not screened in dasara mahotsava. There grouse was that several good movies in regional languages like Tamil, Malayam and Telugu movies would have also got prominence. 

Dasara Kavi Sammelan from October 10 to 12

For the first of its kind in history of Mysore Dasara, Dasara Kavi Sammelan will be hosted at five languages. The languages areKannada, Sanskrit, Tulu, Konkani, Kodava and Beary.

The decision has been taken by Dasara Kavi Sammelan Sub-Committee to promote poets of other languages and also to provide platform for all religious people. 

Poets Srinivas Vara Khedi (Sanskrit), Vasanthkumar Parle (Tulu), Hamsa Malara (Beary), Kasturi Govindammaiah (Kodava) and Alwin Dunti (Konkani) will be presenting the poets at the sammelan. 

As many as 85 poets from across state will be presenting their works at the sammelan from date back 10^th century 'Gadhya Poet' to latest Kambara's Chakori Poet. 

Disclosing this to media persons here on Wednesday, Sub-Committee President Prof KS Bhagwan said that Dasara Kavi Goshti has been rechristened as Dasara Kavi Sammelan (poet's meet) from this dasara and will be held from October 10 to 12.

The sammelan will be held under three categories such as Mahila Kavigosthi, Yuva Kavigoshti, and Pradhan Kavi Goshti. Mahila and Yuva Kavi Goshti will be held at JSS Women's College in Saraswathipuram respectively on October 10 and 11, while Pradhan Goshti on October 12 at Jaganmohan palace. Chiguru Kavigoshti which will be held for children has been cancelled this year.

The event will be inaugurated by Litterateur Chandrashekar Patil on October 10 at 10.30. Renowned Artiste KT Shivaprasad will be the chief guests. Noted writers Mallika Ghanti, Lakshmipathi, Narahalli Balasubramanya, Dr AR Mithra, Dr Kamal Hampana, Chanappa Valekar, BA Sanadhi and others will be present.

Poets who present their works are Sukanya Martuthi, MS Veda, Veena Bananje, K Neela, Anasyua Koble, Ratna Kalegowda, Dr Sunandamma;

Chanda Pasha, Veranna Madivala, Dwaranakunte Shathanna, N rajeshwari, Prakash, VM Manjunath, Gubbigudu Ramesh, Dr Netravathi, Shivaji Rao Ganesh, PV Narayan, Dr Rajappa Dalwoy, HS Umesh, Prof Varadaraju will be presenting Gadhyas. While poets Chandrashekar Thalya, Binadatta Desai, KT Chikkannada, Lokesh Agsanakatte, BM Hanish, and others to present Pradhan Kavi Goshti.

Discrimination in presenting honorarium

The Sub-Committee has decided to give an honorarium of Rs 1000 for poets who will representing Pradhan Kavigoshti, while Rs 500 for women and youngsters. When, questioned about this Prof KS Bhagwan said that following lack of fund they have decided to pay Rs 500 for women !

Plans to host circus in Dasara Exhibition Grounds encounters mixed response

A proposal has been sent by a Pune based businessman, to host circus on the three acres of vacant land at the Dasara Exhibition Grounds (the place is adjacent to Ittegegud). Though the proposal is still pending for approval from the concerned authorities, it has a become a subject of conversation following mixed reactions from people residing in the neighbourhood.

As per the sources of the Exhibition authorities, the place earmarked for setting up the circus is not barren. Around 600 odd saplings have already been planted in that place, of which some of them have grown into trees. The plants have to cut down if the place is allocated to the circus in order to provide space for parking and other accommodations.

A section of people opine that it is a good proposal as tourists can now have all entertainment programmes in one place. But, the nearby residents of Ittegegud do not concur. They say it causes lot of inconvenience to them following severe traffic jam coupled with parking problems.

"Its true that the proposal attracts more tourists and generates good income. But, already we are facing severe parking problems. The private vehicles are parked right in front of our houses when parking lots are full. If another entry is provided the traffic problem gets more aggravated," said an irate resident Shankar Kumar of the locality.

Senior Citizen L Ramachandra says: "The officials should take appropriate measures before hosting the circus. If any fire mishap (which had occurred once several years ago) or any inadvertent incident took place the chances of fatal accidents occurring is very high, following lack of proper safety measures in the region. Even the open drain nearby can be dangerous and must be covered first to ensure safety."

Ittegegud resident Hemavathi says: “The inconvenience caused is not going to last for a few days, but stretches over months. The disturbance of loud music, lights too causes lot of inconvenience."

Deputy Commissioner C Shikha said that the proposal has not yet been finalised.

High demand for chats with less calories

Dasara is the time for street side vendors to expect a roaring business. To attract more number of people they keep introducing new dishes to their menus by experimenting various combinations. The Chatwallahs of 'Thindi Beedhi' and Town Hall have adopted simple techniques to give added taste to the chats they prepare on the spot and keep customers asking for more.

Keeping the diet conscious people in mind, chatwallahs have introduced wide variety of low calorie chats. The chats will not only be a delight to the tongue, but also healthy too. They say the chats are not only most sought by localities, but even a large number of tourists visiting from abroad prefer raw vegetables and fruits, apart from items fried using oil or made of rice.

One Raju Mohan, who has been regularly selling assorted varieties of Churmuri in front of Town Hall, experiments with different types of scraped vegetables like carrot, cucumber, baby-corn, tomato, capsicum, onion etc and makes churumuri that are much sought after by many localites as they are not only nutritious but less in calories and tastes good.

Even other vegetables like beetroot, knol knol and sometimes pomegranate are used in the preparation along with nicely chopped coriander leaves to which is added pepper, salt, lemon and tamarind extract to prepare the mixture.

“Majority of the girls who visit these churmuri stalls order vegetable salads or raw vegetable churumuri, which are easily digested, contain no fat and good for health. The foreigners who come here exclusively order only vegetable mixture and relish the taste,” says Raju.

“The vegetables being easily available round the year are quite tasty and easy to digest. Since they are cut and served fresh they are hygiene too, claims chatwallahs.

Rise and Fall of dasara discussed

Mysore District Journalist Association had organised an interaction meet with prominent personalities of different sectors in city on Friday, to discuss about the celebrations of dasara festivals.

Wrestling, tourism, art, culture, tradition, and several other issues were discussed by the guests highlighting several drawbacks practiced during the celebration of world famous dasara. The guests opined that cultural tag with Mysore dasara is disappearing and wrong persons are appointed for dasara sub-committees.

Senior Journalist Krishna Vattam urged government to constitute a permanent authority in the lines of Dasara exhibition authority and organise cultural programmes regularly. “The tradition of dasara is being changed as per the convenience of officials and politicians. Its high time people friendly programmes should be introduced and make people feel the past glory of dasara,” he added.

“Politicians and their followers are appointed for dasara sub committees, which is a big setback. With mere knowledge they fail to coop with the responsibility and lot of chaos are reported every year. Before appointing a person the government should think whether he has knowledge in the filed and can manage,” Pailwan Mahadev.

Talking about Tourism, Hotelier PV Giri pointed out that government does not follow continue policy during dasara. “Three weeks left for dasara, but so far the cultural programmes are not finalised. Its high time a standard policy should be introduced to attract wider generation,” he added.

Prof PV Nanjaraj Urs said that politicians and officers are unaware how to offer floral tribute to goddess chamundeshwari on Jumbo Savari day. Only CM, Mayor, DC should be on the stage, but they are violating rules. Folk art Federation President Mahadevappa said that artistes should be handled with respect.


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750 kg golden howdah not a burden


Senior Journalist Krishna Vattam discussed about cutting down the weight and providing relief to the elephant which carries 750 kg golden howdah. Replying, Historian prof Nanjaraj Urs said that Golden Howdah is major attraction of Jumbo Savari and at any cost the tradition, culture should not be braked.


“For the elephants which weights about 6000 kg, the weight of golden howdah is not a burden. In forest the elephants are used to transport wood logs, which weighs more than 1000 kg. Moreover, if golden howdah is tampered the tradition practice of dasara falls,” he pointed out.

Forest department retired secretary AC Lakshman opined that golden howdah will not be burden for elephant, if the elephant is provided with needed nutritious food. Armed Reserve Police should be deputed surrounded to elephant carrying golden howdah.

Issues discussed

* Yuva Dasara attracts lot of youth. But there is no connection with Yuva Dasara and cultural dasara festival.

* The government should start preparations at least three months ahead of dasara.

* Providing commutable road is a civic duty. But, why the road works are taken up only during dasara

* Government should provide free accommodation at choultries for people coming from far places.

* Citizens should actively take part in dasara activites and imbibe the culture to next generation.

Mangilal family strive to preserve rare art form

 'Kavad' is an ancient Rajasthani artform that dates back 2000 years to the time of King Vikramaditya of Ujjain. Several small wooden panels are joined together to form the shape of a temple which can be opened like a book.

The panels are beautifully handcrafted with bright coloured paintings depicting stories not only from epics like Mahabharatha and Ramayana but also incidents from the life of Buddha, Jesus, Krishna Leela, Durga, Lakshmi,Mahavira and several others.

The artistes narrate the stories unfolding the closed doors of wooden panels which often comes in various sizes. The story ends with revealing the inner shrine that houses the God. Hence it is also called as Mobile Shrine.

But the tragedy is like other traditional art forms, this rare art form too is fast becoming extinct in these modern times with only a handful of artistes left who are practicing it.

Mangilal Mistri belongs to that dwindling tribe of Kumawats who is striving hard to protect this rare Rajasthani art form. 65-year-old Mangilal Mistri aided by his four sons continue to practice Kavad' in spite of facing severe hardships the prominent of them being the sky-rocketing prices of colours, scarcity of wood coupled with a lukewarm response from people.

"I have been practicing it since my childhood. I along with my family are dedicated to preserving this artform for the next generation. I start my work daily invoking the name of God. The unfolding shrine which in the end reveals the deity at the centre, captures the attention of the viewers. I feel happy in their appreciation,” added Mangilal, an artist hailing from Bansi, Rajasthan, who is settled in Udaypur for the past five decades.

Mangilal’s son Chandraprakash says: “We narrate incidents from mythologyand create Kavad using bark of mango, teak and other trees A very few number of artists are left struggling to preserve this rare art form and its high time the Government should take measures to help the artisans and also to protect this rare art form.”

The duo are suing this rare art form to educate villagers about several government schemes and current issues with the help of NGOs. The family members have even expertise in creating Rajasthan traditional puppets, mask making, wall paintings and others.

Mid-day meal tragedy: A eye-opener

The mid-day meal tragedy which took the life of 6 year-old school girl Anusha, after she accidentally fell into hot sambar vessel, has turned into a wake up call for the Education Department in Mysore.

Though so far no tragic incidents of the sort has been reported from Mysore which too comes under Akshara Dasoha Scheme, the DDPI taking no chances has sent out clear instructions to schools to take additional precautionary measures in the kitchen both while preparing food and also while serving.

Several schools have already put up notices in front of kitchens warning children not to enter the kitchen. Instructions have been given to the cook and the helper to serve food only from smaller vessels instead of moving around huge vessels while serving food.

The Head Masters have begun personally monitoring the cooking and have even deputed a teacher to look into the preparations of mid-day meal on rotation basis. The staff opine that when children are made to stand in queue there are chances that they push each other and fall down. To avoid repetition of such incidents schools have started serving food after children are made to sit on the floor.

The teachers after reading over reports of Anusha's tragic death are creating awareness among children not to enter kitchen or go anywhere near cooking vessels.

Government Bifurcated Higher Primary School Head Mistress K Nagarathnamma said that the children are not allowed inside the kitchen. “Earlier they were entering the kitchen to wash hands as the wash basin was located inside the kitchen. But now we have decided not to take any chance and shifted it to open ground outside. This prevents children from entering the kitchen altogether,' she added.


BB Garden School Head Master Basavaraju said that they have adopted several precautionary measures which are announced during prayer time asking children not to enter kitchen.


DDPI BK Basavaraj said that appropriate safety measures have been taken and a circular has been dispatched asking head masters to take utmost care and attention.

Foreign students to assist tourists during Dasara

Mysore: Thanks for the initiative of Dasara Tourism which has planned to assist foreigners coming to Mysore to watch Dasara in their respective native language. As many as 62 foreign students of various colleges affiliated to Mysore University are being selected to provide information to the visiting tourists in twelve foreign languages during the 9 day Dasara festivities.

How it functions

By calling the toll free number 1077, the visiting tourist has to provide information about his country's name or the language he is familiar with. Immediately their call will be transferred to the concerned foreign student who is conversant with that language, who will provide information about places of visit, accommodation and other queries.

The selected students have already undergone a training and the tourism department has provided them the related brochures, list of Dasara events and related contact numbers to seek help in case they need more information.

Around 5 foreign students have been selected for each prominent language who are offering this service voluntarily and will not be paid any hanoroium.

Tourism Sub-Committee Member Manjunath said that this will benefit hundreds of tourists who will be visiting Mysore.

Kiosks at 16 places

Around 42 students who underwent training conducted by the Dept. of Tourism have been asked to work at 16 kiosks in two shifts set up at various places in the city. The students will provided with all the relevant information commonly asked by the tourists related to Mysore and also about Dasara.

The students will also provide information about the newly launched, 'hop on hop off service' conducted by the KSRTC. Around 15 students have been selected from places like Srirangapatna, Talakadu, T Narasipura and other taluks.

Around 25,000 brochures containing brief historical description of Mysore City, route map has been printed and will be distributed to visitors through this kiosks.

The Kiosks will be set up at St Philomena's Church, Zoo, Ambavilas Palace Varaha Gate, Sub-Urban bus stand, Chamundi Hill, Mysore Airport, Railway Station, Balarama Dwara, Railway Station and one at Back entry of railway station, Dasara Exhibition Grounds, Somanathapura, Srirangapatna, Nanjangud, Talakadu, Hunsur, T Narasipur.

Dasara Tourism to be tourist friendly

Dasara Tourism Sub-Committee President YN Shankaregowda here on Thursday, announced various steps taken to promote Tourism in Mysore during Dasara. Eight Sarots and nine Tongas have been selected to encourage traditional Dasara Tonga. The tongawallahs will be provided with uniform, Mysore Peta, and Rs 1000 honorarium for nine days of Dasara festivities.


Stating that after Delhi, the Hop On Hop Off service is being introduced only in Mysore, he said eight buses (including three volvo buses) have been exclusively used for the service and they will be given a modern touch so that tourists can identity these buses easily.


The hop on hop off bus connects 16 tourist places where a pre-recorded audio will provide information to tourists about the particular the place they are visiting as and when the bus reaches a paticular destination. The fair is Rs 100 for volvo bus and Rs 60 for regular bus.


The bus service which starts from and culminates at the City Bus Stand covers Jagan Mohan Palace, Sachchidananda Ashrama, Uttanahalli Temple, Chamundi Hill, Nandi Statue, Karanji Lake, Zoo, St Philomena's Church, Railway Station Museum, Kalamandira, DC Office, Crawford Hall and joins 100 feet road finally reaching the bus-stand.

“Incomplete works in heart of the city spoils beauty of city”

Hardly thirteen days left for the inauguration of World Famous Dasara Mahotsava. But if one visit the heart of the center, specially the stretch surrounding to the palace the apathy unfolds.

The roads are in very dilapidated condition and much hyped so-called 'Raja Marga' works are still going on. The route of Dasara Procession is of no exception. Not only in city even the situation of roads in outskirts are in very bad condition. Heap of debris can be seen lying on road side in several places and roads filled with potholes, unscientific humps welcome the tourists. As usual the authorities are busy with 'last minute road repair works'. Here is the tete-a-tete with citizens about the bad condition of roads.

A vendor Tirupathi says: “From last three years temporarily road repair works are being completed and after dasara the works will be taken up again.

Even last year on the neck movement they covered the incomplete works with mud, crushed stone. After two months of dasara, the officials again dug the road and so far have not completed the works.”


The tax payers money is going under gutter and seems no one bother about this. Its very disgusting to enter heart of the city with lack of basic amenities. The beauty of the city is getting spoiled for the interest of few people,” senior citizen Hanumantha, resident of Agrahara.


“With Dasara fast approaching the work on the road is far from completion. The road repair works are going on in a snail's pace and either the City Corporation nor the District Administration have taken the issue seriously,” Bindushree, a resident of Nazarbad.


“About 90 per cent of roads in city are in bad condition. The officials, elected representatives should take civic issues serious and work honestly considering the development of city and their responsibilities,” Rajkumar resident of Kukkarahalli.


“Elected representatives always speak of making city a tourist hub, but fail to be tourist friendly. Its high time the government should give first priority for haunting civic issues,” he added.


Mysore City Corporation PG Ramesh said that before dasara road works surrounding to palace will be completed and remaining works will be taken up after dasara.

Curzon Park to become a educative hub for women during this dasara

Though Curzon park is not so popular like its counterpart Cubbon Park in Bangalore, will become the star crowd puller with special programmes being scheduled to be held this Dasara. The visitors will have an opportunity to enrich their knowledge about varieties of horticulture crops. Specially for women the venue will turn out to be an education and information center.

Officials of Horticulture Department have planned to educate general public about conservation of wild-life and forest, soil erosion and various other issues related to environment in addition to the importance of bio-diversity. Apart from these plans have been made to host entertainment and educational programmes that create awareness among people about horticulture crops.

An exclusive 'nutrition food farm' will be set-up to inform women and children about the types of commonly used foods and vegetables and the nutritional value it contains. This would educate people on how to combat malnutrition by using appropriate fruits and vegetables in their daily cooking.

But the novel feature of this Dasara would be women will be created awareness about roof top gardening, terrace gardening, vertical gardening and even wall gardening. They will be taught how to grow vegetables, flowers, including ornamental flowers in small pots with simple procedures. By adopting these simple techniques at home women can not only enrich the beauty of the house but also grow vegetables for themselves whose prices are sky-rocketing these days say officials.

For first time Bonsai competition has been organised for women. Apart this a photo exhibition will be held on wild life and flower shows pictures snapped in curzon park. Other competitions include vegetable and fruit carving, Flower Rangoli competition, Ikabena competition; Indian flower show competition, Photography competition, and much more.

Another interesting feature of the flower show is introduction of exotic vegetables from the West such as Hybrid Petunia of Holland, vegetables from European countries like european cucumber, Kale, prokale, bressleaf, spinach, amongst other varieties of vegetables. The plants nurtured in nursery will be exhibited and information will be provided on how to grow these plants to the curious visitors.


The park is all set for flower show, and the officials have planted varieties of colourful flowers and vegetable plants. This time more information will be given on Horticulture.

Women empowerment to take center note at Mahila Dasara

This year women dasara will not only be a platform for women to showcase their talent, whereas a medium to educate populace about women empowerment and gender discrimination.

A empowered women not only bring changes in society, whereas contributes to the economic development of country. With this backdrop,

Mahila Dasara Sub-Committee has organised a rally from Palace to JK Grounds to drew the attention of people towards women empowerment.

The aim of the rally is to boost confidence, remove fear among women and empower them on various aspects like how to over come poverty, contribution to society in health, education sector, how to live with freedom and much more. Women and Children Dasara Secretary NR Vijay said the rally empowers women boosting confidence and skills.

Dance by tribal women

Apart this, the Mahila Dasara will be perfect platform to showcase their talent in beauty, cooking, art and culture. A group of 15 tribal women from HD Kote are all set to steal the show at Mahila Dasara by their rural traditional dance.

Bride of India

Another interesting and eye catching event which will be host is “Bride of India”, an Indian Wedding contest. Women dressed as brides, walk on the red carpet depicting culture of various states in India.

The event will also be an informative programme to introduce people of Mysore, of other culture and tradition. The contest will be a cynosure of all eyes to watch the amalgamation of various culture, say programme organisers.
Traditional Cooking Contest

To introduce the tradition of the particular region, a traditional cooking competition has been organised. The women from different spheres will prepare and exhibit their traditional dishes of the region

For senior citiznes

Apart from women, senior citizens will also enthrall audience through dance, drama and other cultural programmes. The senior citizens will also take part in sports activities.

Women and Child Development Minister Umashree will inaugurate Mahila Dasara on October 7 at JK Grounds.

Transgenders, homosexuals, and sex workers to be part of dasara

If everything goes as per the plan, members of Ashodaya Samithi, a society involved in the welfare and rehabilitation of sex workers will not only enthrall visitors during dasara though cultural programmes, whereas assist tourists at Kiosks, and set up exclusive stall at Dasara Food Mela, dedicated for HIV Aids patients.

About 20 transgenders, homosexuals, and sex workers, who are good in singing, dancing, mono acting, theater have approached cultural and women sub-committee members to be part of dasara cultural activities.

While, those have good communication skill and command over English language have approached tourism department to provide them the opportunity to assist tourist at Kiosks. An another group of members have approached food mela sub-committee to erect stall.

Ashodaya Samithi core team Member Fathima said talks have been held with concerned members and on Saturday they will be submitting the applications. “If opportunity is provided, it will be a platform to showcase our talent and inform people we are equal in the society,” she added.

Nutritious Food

An exclusive stall to educate people affected with HIV/AIDS will be placed at food mela, by a group of members who have undergone training at Food Science and Nutrition Department, University of Mysore, among people effected with HIV/AIDS.

Ashodaya Samithi Integrated Supportive Officer Seema said the food system of HIV/AIDS patients is entirely different and through the stall the HIV/AIDS people will be educated about food habit they have to practice in their day to day life, to combat malnutrition and develop immune system.

Officers quote:

Food Mela Secretary Dakappa said the Samithi members have approached the Sub-Committee and likely their applications will be considered. Tourism Sub-Committee Chairman YT Shankaregowda said genuine efforts will be made to depute two persons in the kiosks. Cultural Sub-committee Secretary Nirmala Matapathi said in a day or two the participants list will be shortlisted and they will look into the applications of Samithi.