8th Issue

BEGGING FOR 

ATTENTION 

PG 

04 

THE 

ASSAM 

STATE ZOO 

VOL 01 | ISSUE 08 | 

AUG 17 - AUG 23, 2013 

`10 

24 Pages 

i-DAY 

RELOADED 

Guwahati comes out 

of its shell, slowly. 

TEA HQ TO GHY: 

A NECESSITY 

PG 

08 

A 

tête-à-tête 

with 

Dhiren Baruah 

PG 

02 

PG 

07 

Head 2 Head 

WAR OF THE 

SIBLINGS 

Life, Pg 10 

MATCHDAY 

is here

2 

Lead story 

PHOTOS: Rahul Chanda 

GPLUS AUG 17 - AUG 23, 2013 

i-DAY 

RELOADED 

RAHUL CHANDA & KOUSHIK HAZARIKA 

Guwahati comes out of 

its shell, slowly. 

Serial blasts may have rocked Assam on Independence Day, but the zeal and 

spirit of celebrating the day in the city has gradually changed and has move 

upwards. Inspite of various outfits boycotting the day, the 67th Independence 

Day was celebrated in Guwahati with utmost enthusiasm. It is no longer true anymore 

that Guwahatians are scared to go out and celebrate. From kids to elders, 

almost everyone thronged various schools, government offices, clubs, societies and 

so on. 

The Assam Government too did not leave any stone unturned to celebrate the 

day and showed their respect towards the martyrs who fought for our freedom. 

Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi hoisted the national flag at the Khanapara Veterinary 

College Playground and addressed the citizens on the occasion. He said, “Assam is 

developing and it is peaceful than the past. Various rebel groups are also in talks 

with the government which will have a fruitful result. There is statehood demand by 

some indigenous tribes and the issue has been taken up with the Centre to resolve 

it soon.” 

The holiday was observed throughout the city with flag-hoisting ceremonies, 

parades and cultural events. Guwahatians celebrated the day by displaying the national 

flag on their attires, accessories, homes and vehicles; by listening to patriotic 

songs, watching patriotic movies and bonding with family and friends. 

Even though most of the roads had very light traffic, a drive through the city 

was an encouraging experience. A decade back, the city usually resembled a ghost 

town from the wild west – deserted streets, closed shops and people stayed indoors 

while security forces patrolled the roads. The security personnel were there this 

time too but looked rather relaxed while the people of the city, though only in small 

groups and pockets, stepped out to celebrate the day. Even kids were out with tricolours 

– an encouraging sign for any country with more than half the population 

under the age of thirty. 

Many biking groups also took out freedom rallies across the city, waving the 

tricolour. Discovery Bikers president Ashwini Basumatary said, “As many outfits 

boycotted the day, we are celebrating it to prove that we are not scared of any threat 

and are independent in this free country. We want to break the bandh trend on 

Independence Day and spread the message of love and peace.” 

Another biking group, Assam XBHP finance secretary, Kaushik Dutta said, 

“Youth in Assam never came up before to show their enthusiasm towards celebrating 

this day. We want to change the scenario and through biking we want to spread 

the message of peace and harmony. We are not scared of the outfits boycotting the 

day of pride.” He also said that they are spreading the message of safe driving. Dutta 

expressed, “Around 80 bikers participated in the rally and everyone wore helmets.”

GPLUS AUG 17 - AUG 23, 2013 3 

Lead story 

In the past, the Naga National Council called for a boycott of Independence 

Day in the Northeast. Separatist protests in this region intensified 

in the 1980s; calls for boycotts and terrorist attacks by insurgent 

organisations such as the United Liberation Front of Assam and the National 

Democratic Front of Bodoland, marred celebrations. But this year 

the scenario was better than before. Gopal Chakrovarty, a city based 

businessman said, “I was born and brought up in this city and have witnessed 

the terror here in the past. It was risky for people to come out and 

celebrate Independence Day. Now, the situation is different and I personally 

went to drop my kids at their respective schools without any fear.” 

If there are people who are fearless and celebrated the day, there are 

also people who opted to stay at home and consider the day as a holiday. 

It is true that the day is observed as a national holiday across India, but 

cant people at least hoist national flags in their shops, houses and various 

organisational offices? There are still many people in Guwahati who 

are scared to go out. When will the people feel secured? When will the 

police not have to work extra time pre-independence day to check the 

security scenario? When will there be no bomb blasts on Independence 

Day? When will all the citizens stand united and say Jai Hind? 

JAI HIND: The glimpses of Guwahatians celebrating Independence Day on 15th August across the city

4 

G-View 

NEHA AGARWALLA 

While the Assam state government 

is busy with 

various schemes and 

plans for the citizens, there is a part 

which is not being prioritised equally 

with other plans. The Assam State 

Zoo, which was a major attraction 

not only for Guwahatians, but also 

people from all over the Northeast, 

has lost its admirers or is in the process 

of losing them. The zoo which 

used to receive around 1000-1200 

visitors daily has gradually seen 

these numbers decline. 

The visitors, in the past, used to 

specially visit the zoo to watch the 

chimpanzee dance, zebras frolic and 

the tapirs grazing, that are no more 

seen in the zoo. The zoo, at present, 

seems to be quiet and empty and the 

craze of staring at the animals in the 

cages is lost, compared to the scenario 

20 years back. 

Back then 

The Assam State Zoo, which 

was opened to the public in 1957, is 

one of the largest zoos in India with 

a total area of 175 hectares after the 

addition of 45 hectares in 2002. 

People from Guwahati and nearby 

places used to visit the zoo where 

exotic animals like Chimpanzees, 

Zebras, Ostriches, Kangaroos and 

the Black and the White Rhino were 

the main attractions. However, has 

the zoo been able to maintain the 

same status which existed then, two 

decades back? 

Infrastructural 

chaos 

The zoo, which has undoubtedly 

built some new homes and shelters 

for the animals like deer, bear 

and lions, has failed to maintain its 

overall attraction quotient. There is 

no proper footpath for the visitors 

and the staircases too are broken. 

Visitors tend to get exhausted and 

tired due to the lack of directional 

information and the frequent rains 

make the muddy paths slippery and 

tricky. The landscaping of the zoo 

was also seen to be outdated and 

there is long and wild grasses growing 

all around the broken footpaths. 

The park, which was built some 

two decades ago, has also seen no 

development since then. The swings 

GPLUS AUG 17 - AUG 23, 2013 

BEGGING FOR ATTENTION 

THE ASSAM STATE ZOO 

WHO ARE YOU: A caged leopard stares at the visitors 

The administration 

is planning 

to submit a proposal 

to recycle 

the revenue for 

the development 

of the zoo which 

they have collected 

by hiking the 

entry fee. 

PARTY TIME: Zoo employees feeding the deers 

are dilapidated with no attention 

from the zoo officials. The present 

DFO, Mr. Chandan Kr. Bora 

feels that besides the zoo, the park 

should also be developed for the 

kids who are regular visitors. Bora 

also wishes to build a children’s park 

within the premises before his tenure 

ends. The iron netting around 

the cages also needs to be replaced. 

The reason 

The Zoo administration presented 

a proposal to the government 

for the revenue but did not 

receive sufficient finance. This is 

one of the main reason for which 

they had to even increase the entry 

fee for the visitors. It helped them 

to collect Rs. 2 crores in a period of 

two months. The worst part is that 

the revenue collected cannot be 

used directly for developing the zoo 

and the amount has to be submitted 

to the state fund. The government, 

after the collection of the revenue 

from various departments, decides 

where the funds have to be used and 

for what purpose. The administration 

is planning to submit a proposal 

to recycle the revenue for the 

development of the zoo which they 

have collected by hiking the entry 

fee. They are hoping for a positive 

response from the government. 

The main attractions of the 

zoo, the animals, are now getting 

lesser gradually. The zoo has a law 

of exchange for animals where animals 

can be exchanged with zoo 

born animals only. When two zoos 

want their choice of animals and 

they both have the availability for 

the same, they can exchange their 

animals with one another and fulfill 

the demand. The chances of same 

demand for exchange are rare and 

the most sought after animal for

GPLUS AUG 17 - AUG 23, 2013 5 

G-View 

Past Charm Present sCenario 

Chimpanzees No Chimpanzees 

Zebras No Zebras 

Porcupines No Porcupines 

3 Giraffes 1 Giraffe 

Ostrich No Ostrich 

Tapir No Tapir 

exchange from Assam State Zoo are 

the one-horned Rhinos, which has 

to be zoo born for the exchange. 

Unfortunately, our zoo has just two 

one-horned rhinos, which are now 

kept in a visitors restricted area for 

conservation breeding. At present, a 

zoo in South India is ready to give 

a pair of Chimpanzees in exchange 

for one Rhino, which is not possible 

as there is no spare Rhino to be exchanged. 

In the past, there used to 

be three giraffes out of which only 

one is left. The life span of the giraffe 

is also about to end in a year 

and this will again be a great loss for 

the zoo. 

On asking the security men 

about the barring of entry into the 

botanical garden where there is a 

watch tower from were entire zoo 

can be viewed, they said, “Since the 

murder of a girl in the garden, the 

officials closed down the area”. Closing 

the garden has raised a question. 

But, is barring public entry the only 

way to solve the problem? 

Visitors’ view 

Sudeshna Gupta, a zoology student 

from Guwahati says, “I have 

visited Alipore Zoological Garden 

in Kolkata, but I have found that 

our Assam State Zoo is much better 

than the one in Kolkata. The animals 

there are not treated properly 

and the zoo is congested there. This 

one has a very huge area; the only 

drawback here is that the utilisation 

of the area is not proper. Many 

things can be implemented in our 

zoo to make it number one.” 

WILD SKILLS: A Sloth bear and a rhino at the zoo 

Another young visitor Balvinder 

Singh Sandhu (23) said, “I have 

visited the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan 

Zoological Park in Darjeeling 

and I feel bad today to see the 

condition of our zoo in Guwahati. 

The zoo in Darjeeling was so nice 

to see, the animals too where exhibited 

very well. But here, we have to 

peep inside and seek out where the 

animal is. One more thing I would 

like to add was the mapping system 

which is there in Darjeeling. We 

need something like that here in 

Guwahati too.” 

Positive side 

The zoo as on date is providing 

good facilities to the animals. They 

are served food at proper time and 

rate revision 

Category Before may 2013 at present 

Adult 10/- 30/- 

Children 5/- 10/- 

there is enough food to keep the 

animals healthy. There are very old 

and loyal workers of the zoo who 

have devoted their whole lives serving 

the animals and keeping the zoo 

clean. The person looking after the 

juice shop inside the premises says, 

“This is my home. I was born and 

brought up here and since my father 

used to work here devoting his 

whole life to the zoo, I too would 

love to spend my life here forever.” 

The animal keepers too love the zoo 

and the administrators treat them 

well too. They enjoy their job and 

it is encouraging to see them working 

for so long. On asking one of the 

animal keepers to share his experience 

about the zoo, he said, “I have 

been working here for 15 years; I 

have seen many ups and downs. The 

zoo has developed itself in many 

ways but still has to go through a 

lot. I don’t know why it is lagging 

behind in the development of some 

areas, but if asked about the administrators 

and the administrating of 

the zoo, all of them treat us and the 

zoo very well and we are paid equal 

respect. I love my job and will continue 

working here till I am retired.” 

The zoo has two battery-operated 

cars, which can carry 12 people 

at a time. This has helped elderly 

people, the specially challenged and 

children. The newly constructed ration 

store is also expected to start 

working after two months; this was 

done to improve the hygiene level of 

the food given to the animals. The 

The barred botanical garden 

zoo engineer, on being asked about 

the new developments said, “The 

design concept keeps changing for 

the betterment of the animal shelters 

and we keep upgrading ourselves 

according to the new technical 

availabilities.” 

The birds, which were earlier 

kept in the cages, have now been 

freed as it showed a sign of cruelty 

towards them. The ways and rules 

to be followed by the authorities in 

the state zoo are looked after by the 

Central Zoo Authorities. They always 

keep a check on the animals so 

that they could be provided homely 

treatment. 

The good news is that the zoo 

will surely get developed as the 

master plan of ten years has been 

approved by the Central Zoo Authorities 

and every year an action 

plan will start for a particular area. 

We can now hope to see the Zoo 

filled with all different types of animals 

and a proper infrastructure so 

that the zoo becomes one of the best 

places to be visited and the main attraction 

for the people of Guwahati 

too.

6 

City 

VOX POP 

The Telangana decision has once again raised 

the demands for smaller states in Assam and 

the situation continues to remain tense with 

normal life being affected in areas where severe agitations 

have paralysed day-to-day activities, making 

it more sensitive and volatile. While Bodoland 

is regularly calling for ‘Bandhs’, the situation in 

the district of Karbi Anglong is totally different as 

the region is hit with violence. Many government 

buildings have been burnt down and deaths have 

SEPARATE STATE 

been reported. 

This rigorous demand for separate states is creating 

an immense pressure on the government to halt 

these ethnic groups from seceding. But will such 

demands bring about a concrete solution? As different 

organisations raise a hue-and-cry for creating 

separate states by tearing apart the state of 

Assam, what do the people of Guwahati feel about 

such an outburst? 

Saundarjya Borbora, Professor, Dept. of Humanities & Social Sciences, IIT 

If separation happens, then the main concern would be the development of the 

general people. Will it be economically viable for the region? Would they be able to run 

it efficiently? These are some of the questions that need careful consideration. Moreover, 

a new state would mean the creation of a new government with a new secretariat and 

new departments. In such a case, it would increase the revenue expense more than the 

development expense, which would then slow down the growth of the people residing 

there. They must have their own resources and revenue generation capacity. 

Dr. Babita Choudhury, Principal, R.G. Baruah College 

For lower Assam, the areas that the ethnic groups are demanding are also home to 

people belonging to different religions, communities and groups. There are a few pockets 

in certain areas where the population of these ethnic groups is less than 5% or 10% but are 

still marked in their map. So in reality, the total population of the other communities are 

much higher than the ethnic community and herein lies the difficulty because they do not 

support the separation. So, is it possible to declare a separate state without consulting the 

other communities? Perhaps not, but an immediate solution is necessary wherein all the 

groups are satisfied with the provision. 

Anwesha Laskar, Law Student 

They are demanding for a separate state because they feel that the administrative 

arrangement under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution comes with many shortcomings. 

Although the Bodoland Territorial Council was formed under the Sixth Schedule, they feel 

that these provisions have failed to fulfil the aspirations of the ethnic people. They could be 

provided with more autonomy but now, the decision for a separate state still needs more 

consideration and for that, there must be effective talks between them. 

Debaprotim Kashyap, Engineering Student 

The normal life may not remain normal anymore and there might be problems because 

the rest of the people will definitely not accept such kind of changes. Moreover, this might 

also affect the peace process and access to these regions will become even more difficult. 

There might be discord among the people and there is no assurance that such separation 

would bring in harmony. People living in the affected areas which are now a part of Assam, 

will become members of a different state if such separation happens. This would severely 

affect their psychology. 

Amarendra Pathak, Bank Manager 

Separation will not be a right decision, at least for now. However, at the same time, 

the government must pay more attention to these areas for development that is more 

comprehensive. Moreover, in the Telangana issue, there are political reasons involved and 

so, it cannot be compared with the scenario in Assam. Moreover, the areas in Telangana are 

properly demarcated and do not overlap. This would further create problems, as different 

ethnic groups will fight against each other for their boundaries. 

GPLUS AUG 17 - AUG 23, 2013 

QUIZZING AWAY 

TO GLORY 

The lazy Sunday metaphor is often an understatement in the 

sleepy city of Guwahati. A Sunday afternoon, even more so. 

The ant farms remain in a state of nervous calm and the hustle 

and bustle of our skinny winding roads seem like a long forgotten bad 

dream. But, this indolence is not all encompassing and like all rules, 

there are exceptions. This afternoon sun acts like a clarion call for a 

certain group of misfits in this city who can best be described (albeit 

not entirely satisfyingly) by the very ambiguous term - ‘quizzers’. This 

shady bunch of people - young and old, hairy and bald, skinny and 

fat - can often be seen loitering around restaurants, auditoriums and 

deserted nooks and crannies of some residential area. Get a hold of one 

of them and ask the reason for being outside at such an ungodly hour, 

the answer should be unanimous - Hub Quiz. 

The Hub Quiz is the PG friendly version of the famous [and infamous] 

Pub Quiz scene of the Queen’s England. More of an informal 

gathering of scavengers of knowledge than a quiz, it is a platform where 

they pick, scratch and nibble at each other’s brains in a quest to know 

more. Hub/Pub quizzing is nothing new or novel. It has been around 

for decades. Most of it does not even have any real life application - it 

won’t help you in any way to know the name of Salvador Dali’s ocelot, 

will it? So what is new? What makes this article non-redundant? What 

makes quizzing important? 

The hub-quizzing scene in Guwahati has received a much needed 

shot in the arm in recent times - with increasing participants, increasing 

variety of questions and an ever increasing curiosity and hunger 

to know more. As a hub quiz is more often than not a prize-less and 

thankless endeavor, the hullabaloo surrounding it can mean only one 

thing - people want to know more. Period. No one is coming for that 

one prize or that one free cup of tea and the most important aspect of 

such a quiz is the fact that anyone and anybody can be the quizmaster 

and can ask anything under the sun (or above it). There are no crowds 

to be pleased and no sponsors to be satisfied. From the most experienced 

quizmaster in Assam to the newest rookie in town - everyone 

can share their own corner of the universe and can connect with likeminded 

people. This connection is, in my opinion, one of the biggest 

takeaways from such an event. This city is sprinkled with people possessing 

a plethora of different views, understandings and knowledge. 

So, what better way to stream this knowledge-pool than in such a forum? 

The importance of quizzing is highlighted in such a gathering. 

In a city where grenades and disappointments lurk around every 

corner, where protests and kangaroo courts hold the center stage - 

something as innocent, invigorating and seemingly useless as a puny 

little hub quiz can be a refreshing alternative. A necessary distraction, 

a source to indulge in one’s curiosity, which is sadly lost over time. A 

platform where knowledge is the only criterion and where every other 

prejudice known or unknown to us takes a backseat. So the next time 

you see this shady bunch of misfits, you will know better and maybe, 

you will be a part of this clan. 

CITIZEN JOURNALIST 

Pinakpani Kashyap 

YOU cAN bE A cITIzEN JOURNALIST TOO. 

Just mail us your story at editor@g-plus.in

GPLUS AUG 17 - AUG 23, 2013 7 

I love 

guwahatI 

– Dhiren Baruah 

After his retirement 

in 1989, receiver of 

the ‘Guwahati Pran’ 

award, Dhiren Baruah 

has dedicated the rest of 

his life for the development 

of Guwahati. The President 

of ‘Save Guwahati Build 

Guwahati’, an NGO, is still 

struggling against odds to make 

the city worth living. 

RAHUL CHANDA 

What made you initiate the idea of ‘Save Guwahati Build 

Guwahati’? 

I devoted my life to the people as a social activist. Soon after my father’s 

death, my mother, my siblings and I experienced poverty and we had 

to face the worst part of our lives. We use to live only on Muri and tea, 

that too without sugar, to cut down the expenditure. After two years of 

hardships, we started living a normal life. I studied until the year 1947 and 

joined Student Congress to work for the welfare of the state and its people. 

This struggle, from the time of pre-independence, made me come up with 

this project. I believe in ‘Vande Matram.’ This is the only slogan, which I 

believe, can bring the people close to their country. My philosophy of Save 

Guwahati Build Guwahati is to save Guwahati, save Assam and save our 

Country. I decided to start with my own land and thought of saving the 

city first. 

When did you start the project of SGBG? 

I started this project in 1990 after I retired in ‘89. It is a project taken 

care by 45 members, who work tirelessly to build a beautiful Guwahati. 

Government alone cannot do anything; they also need the cooperation of 

the people, so all the Guwahatians should take part and come forward and 

make Guwahati a beautiful place to live in. 

Do you get funds from the Government? 

No, we have a group of 45 people and every member has to contribute 

Rs.1000 so that we can work on different projects without any financial 

problems. 

Why didn’t you join politics? 

I had joined politics in 1951. When Jayaprakash Narayan came to Assam, 

I travelled with him across the state for 21 days to organise socialist 

movements. I became a socialist and fought the elections in 1962 but was 

defeated by the Congress. I then joined congress in ‘72 after Indira Gandhi 

nationalised the bank insurance company because the socialist party was 

no more. I quit congress after the death of Dr. Hiteshwar Saikia. 

IN cONVERSATION: Dhiren Baruah goes through a copy of Gplus. 

Why did you leave the Congress? 

I have no personal anguish against anybody but in fact, when we put in 

efforts to take the work forward with honesty and dedication, people are 

ready to blackmail you. I fear blackmailing; it’s very dangerous. 

What do you mean by blackmailing in Congress? 

Like Himanta Biswa Sarma and Tarun Gogoi, dissidence existed in 

Congress since pre-independence. This is not new. It has been there since 

the time of Mahatma Gandhi and Nehru Ji. 

Which party do you support today? 

I don’t support any party. Nevertheless, yes, I would like to add that 

only Congress can rule Assam. No other party can do that. The Assam 

government has lately understood our mission and vision of serving the 

people and society. Mr. Tarun Gogoi has accepted the fact that we have 

done something for the society and I received the award of Guwahati Pran. 

He also suggested that I should receive Assam Pran. 

Will Guwahati develop? 

Guwahati will develop and the government has also realised the reality. 

Guwahati should be the best city in Asia. The people are aware now and 

the city will surely grow. 

Your hobbies? 

I read a lot of newspapers. I sometimes watch movies too. 

Your best actors in Assamese and Hindi film industries? 

Among the Assamese film stars, I like Nipon Goswami and Barasha Rani. 

If you talk about Bollywood, then I miss Rajesh Khanna and I like Vidya 

Balan and Rani Mukherjee. 

City 

PHOTO: Neha Agarwalla 

I don’t 

support 

any party. 

Nevertheless, 

yes, I would 

like to add 

that only 

Congress can 

rule Assam.”

8 

Business 

SHAmbHAvI 

Guwahati: While Assam accounts 

for over 50 percent 

of the Indian tea production 

and is the nerve centre of the 

world tea trade, the question in the 

minds of the public is why the Tea 

board headquarters, presently located 

inKolkata, cannot be shifted 

to Guwahati. 

Recently, the Tea Board chairman, 

MGVK Bhanu, who happens 

to be an Assam cadre IAS officer, 

has ruled out shifting of the headquarters 

of the Tea Board from- 

Kolkata to Assam. Bhanu said, “It 

is not possible to shift the office to 

Guwahati as tea traders and a large 

number of manufactures are located 

in Kolkata.”The Chairman said 

that to deal with this issue, it has 

been decided that the chairman 

will have an office in the Regional 

Office of the board in Jorhat,which 

the chairman will visit once in a 

month. 

However, can there be two logics 

for same thing? The Tea Board 

recently shifted its zonal office 

located In Guwahati to Jorhat. 

The board has reasoned that the 

board’s office must be located close 

to thearea of production and as 

Upper Assam accounts for the bulk 

of tea production, the office must 

be in the area. However the same 

logic is defied when the question 

of shifting the office from Kolkata 

to Guwahati comes up. Shifting of 

the board’s office from Guwahati 

to Jorhat has faced stiff opposition 

from Tripura as this office caters 

to whole of Northeast India. The 

Tripura government had earlier 

dashed a letter to the Union commerce 

minister, Anand Sharma, 

asking the ministry to intervene 

and stop there location. 

According to the Tripura government, 

the Tea board has taken 

a unilateral decision. “We are the 

stakeholders in the industry. Why 

were we not consulted? Tripura is 

a major tea growing state and the 

zonal office in Jorhat will result in 

hardships to the tea growers. Traveling 

from Tripura to Jorhat will 

be difficult as there is hardly any 

connectivity. Tripura has 55 big tea 

estates spreading over 14,000 acres 

of land, producing 4.7 millon kgs 

annually.” 

There are five statutory Commodity 

Boards under the Department 

of Commerce, Government 

of India – Tea, Coffee, Rubber, 

Spices and Tobacco. Except the Tea 

Board, all other Boards are headquartered 

in the State where the 

product is mainly grown. 

Karnataka is the birthplace 

of coffee in India and the Coffee 

Board is headquartered in Bengaluru, 

Karnataka. Rubber cultivation 

in India has been traditionally 

confined to Tamil Nadu and 

TEA HQ TO GHY: 

A NECESSITY 

ENDLESS GREENERY: A tea garden in Upper Assam 

Kerala and the Rubber Board is 

headquartered in Kottayam, Kerala.If 

we take the case of the Spices 

Board too, it is headquartered in 

Cochin, Kerala and the Tobacco 

Board is headquartered in Guntur, 

Andhra Pradesh. Though Assam 

is the birthplace of Tea in India 

and as per the latest statistics, Assam 

alone produces about 53% of 

the country’s total tea, still the Tea 

Board has not been headquartered 

in Assam. 

North Eastern Tea Association 

(NETA) chairman, Bidyananda 

Barkakoty said the Government of 

India should shift the head office 

of Tea Board from Kolkata to Guwahati 

to serve the greater interest 

of people connected with tea cultivation. 

“As per the latest statistics 

of the Tea Board, Assam produces 

52.9% of the country’s tea, West 

Bengal 24.8%, Tamil Nadu 14.6%, 

Kerala 5.7%, Karnataka 0.5% and 

other States 1.4%.” 

He argued that, in recent times, 

an increase in the area of tea cultivation 

is taking place in Assam 

and other North Eastern States. In 

other tea growing States of India, it 

is either stagnant or is on a decline. 

As per the estimate, in another 

few years’ time, Northeast India 

will produce more than 65% of the 

country’s tea. 

Proponents of the Tea Board 

headquarter in Guwahati argued 

that the Tea board was headquartered 

in Kolkata at a time when 

tea was a major export commodity 

from India and was one of the major 

revenue earners for the country’s 

exchequer. But nowadays, 

85% of India’s tea is consumed in 

the domestic market. In terms of 

value, Indian tea exports todayconstitutes 

only about 0.5% of total 

commodity exports and about 5% 

of total agro-export from India. 

In 2008, the 

then Minister of 

State for Commerce, 

Jairam 

Ramesh, expressed 

his surprise 

in a public 

meeting that 

there is no office 

of the Tea Board 

in Dibrugarh, 

which is the largest 

tea growing 

belt in the world. 

Finally, a Tea 

Board office in 

Dibrugarh was 

opened only in 

2008. This also 

shows the apathy 

of the policy 

makers towards 

Assam. They ar- 

gue that the shifting of the Zonal 

Office from Guwahati to Jorhat 

was a good move by the Tea Board. 

It has helped the tea industry at 

large. Similarly, shifting of the Tea 

Board head office from Kolkata to 

Guwahati would be a wise decision 

for the greater interest of theIndian 

tea industry. 

Shifting of 

the Tea board 

head office 

from Kolkata 

to Guwahati 

can takeplace 

in a phased 

manner” 

NETA chairman added that 

the present convention of appointing 

the Chairman of the Tea Board 

from Assam and West Bengal 

cadres alternately could still be 

continued after shifting the head 

office from Kolkata to Guwahati. 

The convention may be slightly 

modified by appointing them in 

the following order: Assam cadre – 

GPLUS AUG 17 - AUG 23, 2013 

Tea board is coming up with an integrated tea park in Guwahati. Land for the 

project has already been acquired at Chaygaon. 

Guwahati tea auction centre is getting a massive face lift with Chai Bar being 

conceptualised to promote Assam tea. 

Tea making massive inroads in the Lower Assam areas. Large plantation 

coming up. 

PHOTO: Manas Das 

West Bengal cadre – Assam cadre – 

Tamil Nadu cadre – Assam cadre. 

For Assam, tea is a major industry 

from the socio-economic 

point of view, which may not be 

same for the other tea growing 

States in India. He said Guwahati is 

the gateway to the Northeast and is 

one of the fastest growing cities in 

India. Guwahati is well connected 

by rail, road and air with the rest 

of the country. There is also a dry 

port in Guwahati. “If waterways 

through Bangladesh can be used, 

then Guwahati can become a hub 

for tea export. India’s largest tea 

auction centre is inGuwahati. 

Guwahati is envisaged to be the 

hub of India’s Look East policy. The 

city is connected by road to ASE- 

AN countries and in future there is 

the likelihood of further improvement 

in road connectivity. “Shifting 

of the Tea Board head office 

from Kolkata to Guwahati can take 

place in a phased manner,” Bidyananda 

observed. The supporters 

of the office in Guwahati felt that 

as majority of tea picketers are located 

in Western India, opening of 

the headquarters in Guwahati will 

mean expanding their activity here 

by means of setting up offices here. 

Ancillary activities too will receive 

a major boost and the hospitality 

industry will be a winner.

GPLUS AUG 17 - AUG 23, 2013 9 

Space 

The Colour is 

PRATIK DHAR 

With the world taking an active 

stand towards eco-friendliness, 

every bit of our contribution 

counts. Efficient living has begun to catch on 

with people and this is evident in the growing 

demand for building eco-friendly homes 

that are better known as ‘green’ homes or 

buildings. In an environment, which is degrading 

with the increasing amounts of pollution 

and depletion of other resources, people 

have to find new ways to preserve nature 

and the earth as a whole. Green homes and 

buildings are a step towards sustainable development 

where, as the name suggests, the 

concern towards the environment is most 

important. 

A Green Building 

Not all buildings are green as there are 

particular criteria that are to be fulfilled and 

yes, you just do not paint it green to make 

it eco- friendly. They are least disruptive in 

their use of power and the most efficient and 

cost effective. In the construction of such 

buildings, the preservation of environment 

is taken into consideration. Such constructions 

put optimum importance towards 

water conservation projects. Efficient consumption 

of energy is another feature which 

is a priority for green buildings. Other than 

keeping the outer surroundings conducive to 

the environment, such buildings try to maintain 

their ‘green’ status from within as well; 

it tries to build a healthy ambience indoors 

by using natural elements which would keep 

the occupants close to nature. 

Benefits of green building 

The ever increasing urbanisation at present 

has affected the environment adversely 

and its deterioration has become a cause of 

concern. Hence at this distressing hour, the 

evolving concept of green houses at smaller 

levels and green buildings and apartments at 

larger levels has brought about an awakening. 

Green buildings, as the name suggests, 

tends to implant natural elements to remain 

close to nature. These houses are mostly 

strategically planned so as to maximise the 

usage of natural daylight, healthy air, solar 

power, etc. thereby minimizing the use of ar- 

GREEN 

tificial bulbs or tube 

lights, and air conditioners. 

Conservation 

of energy and most 

significantly, of water, 

is undoubtedly a special 

benefit of green houses. 

Such buildings extensively 

carry out rainwater harvesting 

projects and recycling 

used water. At present, when 

water shortage has hit people 

dearly, harvesting rain water, 

which is a natural resource and 

found aplenty during its peak season, becomes 

a smart move to stock up reservoirs. 

Cost The most criticised issue about constructing 

green buildings is the price. From 

the photovoltaic to the new electric appliances, 

all modern technologies tend to be 

expensive. The savings in money come from 

more efficient use of utilities which result in 

decreased energy bills. Green and Energy 

Star certified buildings tend to achieve significantly 

higher rents, sale prices and occupancy 

rates as well as lower capitalisation 

rates potentially reflecting lower investment 

risk. 

Green Building and the World 

The World Green Building Council is a 

network of national green building councils 

in more than ninety countries, making it the 

world’s largest international organisation influencing 

the green building marketplace. Its 

aim is to strengthen green building councils 

in member countries by connecting them 

to a network of knowledge, inspiration and 

practical support. Green building councils 

are member-based organisations that empower 

industry leaders to effect the transformation 

of the local building industry toward 

sustainability. 

Green Building and India 

To facilitate India to be one of the global 

leaders in a sustainable environment by 

2025, the Indian Green Building Council 

(IGBC) has launched ‘IGBC Green Existing 

As global warming is haunting the 

world with its threat, going green 

is an option people are opting for. 

The clamour for green building 

is growing louder across India. 

GPlus explores the scenerio in 

Guwahati. 

Building O&M Rating System’ to address 

the National priorities. By applying to the 

IGBC Green Existing Building O&M criteria, 

existing buildings can be sustainable 

over the life cycle of the building. This rating 

programme enables the building owner and 

the developer to apply green concepts, so as 

to reduce the environmental impacts, which 

are measurable. It also facilitates building 

owners & facility managers in implementation 

of green strategies, measure their impacts 

and sustain the performance in the 

long run. 

ADARSH (Association for Development 

and Research of Sustainable Habitats) 

is an independent platform for interaction 

on scientific and administrative issues related 

to sustainable habitats in the Indian 

subcontinent. It was founded by TERI (The 

Energy and Resources Institute, New Delhi) 

with support from MNRE (Ministry of New 

and Renewable Energy, Government of India) 

along with some experts. It is mandated 

to promote development of buildings and 

habitats in India through GRIHA. GRIHA 

or Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment 

is India’s own rating system jointly 

developed by TERI and the Ministry of New 

and Renewable Energy, Government of India. 

It is a green building design evaluation 

system where buildings are rated in a threetier 

process. The process initiates with the 

online submission of documents as per the 

prescribed criteria followed by on site visit 

and evaluation of 

the building by a team of 

professionals and experts 

from GRIHA. 

Bureau of Energy Efficiency or 

BEE has developed its own rating system 

for the buildings based on a 1 to 5 star scale. 

More stars mean more energy efficiency. It 

has developed the Energy Performance Index 

(EPI). The unit of Kilo watt hours per 

square meter per year is considered for rating 

the building and especially targets air 

conditioned and non-air conditioned office 

buildings. 

Green Guwahati 

Assam too is adopting the green concept. 

Last year, state Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi 

directed various departments to take up the 

idea of green buildings for the government 

constructions. Even the private developers 

in the city are expected to do the same and 

under this, the building would have provisions 

such as rainwater harvesting, power 

from renewal sources and recycling procedures. 

Concerned officials are also bestowed 

with the responsibility to promote a ‘green 

policy’ for the construction of new residential 

and commercial complexes to make the 

concept of ‘Green Building’ more popular in 

Guwahati. However, the city in many parts 

is densely populated because of which a few 

of the green concepts still cannot be implemented 

and we are still not ready to afford 

such high end solutions because of the cost 

involved. According to a city based architect, 

Guwahati at first must go through the stage 

of low and passive cost system which contributes 

to saving and then in second stage, 

one should go for the hi-tech solutions.

10 

Life 

The bond between siblings is unlike 

any other and for some people it is 

the most enduring relationship they 

experience. Unfortunately, it is not like this 

all the time. Sibling rivalry is a perpetual issue 

in all families with more than one child. 

The first thing, concerned parents need to 

know about sibling relationships is that, 

a certain amount of rivalry and conflict is 

normal and even healthy. It can be quite intense, 

frustrating for parents and it’s often 

hard to know how to respond. 

According to a businessman Biman 

Phukon, sibling rivalry increases when people 

grow older. He said, “My brothers used 

to be jealous of me when we were kids as 

I was my father’s favourite. When we grew 

up, my siblings started conspiring against 

me. After I got married, the situation got 

worse. It became so critical that I had to finally 

leave my parents and stay alone with 

my wife. People think I was the troublemaker 

but real the story is different.” 

As siblings grow into mature adults, 

they hope and expect rivalries will recede 

into the past. For most siblings this is the 

case, but for some, this rivalry continues to 

burn deep while in other cases, new rivalries 

pop up. When sibling rivalry persists 

into adulthood, the conflict and self-doubts 

can be devastating. For those suffering these 

negative consequences, it’s important to 

learn about sibling rivalry and how to minimise 

it. 

ROOTS OF ADULT 

SIBLING RIVALRY 

Expectations 

Sometimes parents place expectations 

on their children to compensate for their 

own inadequacies. As children try to fulfil 

these expectations, whether spoken or unspoken, 

they often fear they will fail. These 

expectations and fears often have a negative 

effect on sibling relationships. 

Favouritism 

One of the most precious resources that 

siblings fight about is their parents’ love and 

approval. If parents show favoritism toward 

a child, they can harm and even destroy sibling 

relationships. 

For example, in one family of sons the 

youngest child was spoiled and pampered 

by his parents, and one of the older sons 

always felt left out of the picture. As the 

two boys became adults and started having 

children of their own, the pampering of the 

youngest child continued with the spoiling 

of that son’s grandchildren. 

THE PHASES 

OF SIBLING 

RELATIONSHIPS 

Over time, families experiences many 

changes, such as marriage, siblings having 

children, the illness and death of elderly 

parents, the parents’ or a sibling’s divorce, 

geographical moves, and career successes or 

failures. Each of these situations can cause 

new sibling rivalries. 

Marriage 

When a sibling gets married, the other 

siblings often feel like the sibling bond has 

been dissolved. They may feel they have lost 

something that will never be regained. An 

18-year-old young man, for example, had 

GPLUS AUG 17 - AUG 23, 2013 

WAR OF THE 

SIBLINGS 

A GPlus feature 

a brother who got married while they were 

both at college. The younger brother felt 

sad and rejected, as if he had lost his older 

brother forever. His brother was now a married 

man preoccupied with responsibilities. 

As the older brother bought a house and 

started having children, the younger brother 

felt even more unimportant and like they 

were now worlds apart. 

Becoming more 

established 

As siblings get older and more established 

in their own lives, it’s easy to drift 

apart. Even if you do everything you can 

to stay close, a certain amount of distancing 

is inevitable. The demands of a spouse, 

children, education, career, a home, money 

problems, troubled teenagers and many 

other realities of life can put sibling relationships 

on the backburner. All these factors 

also can increase competition between 

siblings as they compare how their adult 

lives are going. 

Aging parents 

As your parents age, you may find 

new conflict arising between you and your 

brothers and sisters - or old conflict in new 

forms, especially if you’re sharing care giving 

responsibilities. 

Communication 

In any relationship a lack of communication 

skills causes problems. General communication 

principles that can improve siblings’ 

relationships include: Avoid sarcasm. 

It makes it hard for your siblings to understand 

what you mean, and it often causes 

injury. Stick to the facts. Avoid interpreting 

behavior. You can never be sure why a sibling 

has done what she has done, so don’t 

try to tell her what her behavior means. 

Don’t ask questions if you’re not willing to 

hear the answer. 

Don’t wait too long to voice complaints. 

The longer you wait the more your resentment 

builds. 

When you don’t know what to say, be 

honest. If you feel awkward talking about 

something, let your sibling know. Be a good 

listener. Pay attention to verbal and nonverbal 

behavior. Ask questions that will help 

you gain understanding. Making friends 

with siblings. No matter how old you are, 

it’s never too late to improve a relationship 

with a sibling you’ve felt a rivalry with.: 

As you work to overcome rivalries and 

become friends with your siblings, it’s important 

to stay close, be patient, and learn to 

communicate more effectively. If you can do 

these things and make needed changes in 

your own life, you will have taken valuable 

steps in overcoming your sibling rivalries. 

Ever felt 

jealous of 

your brother 

or sister? No 

need to feel 

bad about it 

because it is a 

very natural 

phenomenon. 

ELLA DIABLO 

I answer all your questions on 

LIfE, LoVE AND SEx 

I am 19. I love my neighbor. She 

too had the hots for me but now she has 

moved away to another state. Whenever 

I call her she says she doesn’t want to 

speak to me. What do I do? 

- Sauvik 

You don’t need to do much 

dude. Just get yourself another 

chick. Obviously, she has found 

another interesting neighbor 

who is more than willing to lend 

his shoulder. So, stop wasting 

your dad’s money on the 

incessant calls and get on with 

your life! 

I love my best friend’s boyfriend and 

he too flirts with me occasionally. I can’t 

stop thinking about him. But I don’t want 

to hurt my friend either. HELP! 

-Priyanka 

Hurt your friend? Sweetie, 

you have already committed the 

cardinal sin of fantasising about 

your best friend’s boyfriend. So 

chuck those “barely present” 

morals out of the window and go 

for the kill. Trust me, in today’s 

time and age, finding a good 

boyfriend is a TASK! 

Hi! It was my birthday and we all got 

drunk. I ended up having a threesome 

with my boyfriend and his guy friend. All 

went well, till I saw my bf performing oral 

sex on his friend. I was drunk and turned 

on, but still shocked! In the morning I 

was in tears. My boyfriend says it was a 

mistake and will never happen again. But 

I have a feeling that he is gay. Help 

- Shruti 

Look girl, getting drunk 

gives you a lot more courage to 

go ahead and do things that you 

wouldn’t normally have the guts 

to. Maybe, your guy had recently 

seen some gay porn flick and 

wanted to experiment. In my 

opinion, such casual experiments 

help add spice to otherwise 

monotonous relationships. But if 

this gay thing seriously bothers 

you then I have a fool proof idea. 

Ask one of your gay friends to 

seduce your boyfriend to bed. If 

he is successful then sweetheart, 

run in the opposite direction. 

If you have any queries for ELLA 

DIAbLO, mail it to diablo@g-plus.in

GPLUS AUG 17 - AUG 23, 2013 11 

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Special 

motichur ke laddoo 

Price `20 per piece 

Gangnam style rakhi 

Price `8 

aarti thaal 

Price `500-1000 

traditional envelopes 

Price `40-200 per 25 

pieces packet 

RAKSHA 

BANDHAN, 

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So StRoNg 

NEHA jAIN & PRERNA THARD 

GPLUS AUG 17 - AUG 23, 2013 

The chaste bond of love between a brother and a sister is one of the deepest and noblest of human 

emotions. ‘Raksha Bandhan’ or ‘Rakhi’ is a special occasion to celebrate this emotional bonding 

by tying a holy thread around the wrist and placing rice particle and roli (vermicelli) on the forehead. 

The festival comes in the midst of excitement with sisters awaiting gifts from their brothers and 

brothers growing more responsible with every passing Raksha Bandhan. This thread, which pulsates 

with sisterly love and sublime sentiments, is rightly called the ‘Rakhi’. It means ‘a bond of protection’, 

and Raksha Bandhan signifies that the strong must protect the weak from all that’s evil. 

The social binding 

This ritual not only strengthens the bond of love between brothers and sisters, but also transcends the confines 

of the family. Sisters tie Rakhis not only to their brothers but also their sisters in law (brothers’ wives). 

When a Rakhi is tied on their wrists, it underscores the need for a harmonious social life, where every individual 

co-exist peacefully as brothers and sisters. 

Rakhis are ideally made of silk with gold and silver threads, beautifully crafted embroidered sequins, and 

studded with semi precious stones. Other than general wrist-band-type Rakhis, there are also Rakhis for ladies 

that are to be hanged from the bangles called ‘Lumba’. 

The Guwahati market is flooded with a collection of stunning rakhis and lumbas in ethnic designs and 

styles made of rudraksha, silver and gold plated rakhis, zari rakhis, crystals, beads, pearls & stones, scented 

chandan rakhis, fresh flower etc. You can also find different designs of rakhis for kids like lighting 

rakhis, LED Guitars, cartoon character rakhis, Chota Bheem, Doraemon, Angry Birds, Cars, Ben 

10, musical rakhis and rakhi-bands. Each and every rakhi seem to be flawlessly designed and 

prepared by the most skillful designers. 

With the rakhi, sisters give presents to their younger brothers and elder brothers in 

return to the rakhis bless their sisters with gifts. The exotic collection of gifts displayed 

in the stores often leaves the brothers puzzled for settling down to one 

present. Nevertheless, when it comes to picking the best one, you can scroll 

through our collection and make your choice. 

GPlus takes you through the collection of fashionable Rakhis and 

Lumbas and fascinating gift items in the market. 

rakhi - Lumba set 

Price `250 

LeD Guitar rakhi 

Price `25 

roli Chawal Chopra 

Price `350 

Fresh Flower rakhi 

Price `175 

moli rakhis 

Price `15 per piece

GPLUS AUG 17 - AUG 23, 2013 13 

Special 

RAKHI gIFtS 

FoR BRotHERS & 

SIStERS 

Electronic gadgets 

Gadgets are loved and used by every second individual, be it guys 

or girls. Something like innovative angry bird speaker set will be the 

best rakhi gift for your gadget freak brother/ sister. 

Perfumes & deodorants 

Perfumes and deodorants are any time welcomed and cherished 

by everyone. You can gift cologne from a good brand and with a sweet 

fragrance to your sibling. 

Clothing 

Apparels cover a wide variety to choose from. For this Raksha 

Bandhan, you can present a shirt, a Tee or a dress. 

fashion Accessories 

Girls are fond of jewellery and they love to accessorize themselves 

with different designs and colours. On Raksha Bandhan, you can 

present your sister a set of antique comb and mirror that will add to 

her collection. Also along with accessories, gifting vanity sets to keep 

their jewellery would be thoughtful. To brothers, watch cases, grooming 

kits, etc. would be nice gifts to choose from. 

Chocolate Baskets 

Both kids and adults fantasize chocolates to the same level, so you 

can gift these sweet treats to your dear siblings any time. Apart from 

gifting individual chocolate packs, there are chocolate hampers and 

baskets also available during festive time. 

Home Decor Items 

Gifting decorative items completely depends on the taste of your 

sibling. In case he/ she is fond of decking up the house, decorative 

items, table linen, pillow shams and other bedding, vases, candle 

holders, and photo frames are some gifting ideas. 

Beauty Products 

Beauty products are anytime loved and craved by girls. You can 

choose from a bathroom kit to cosmetics. However, in the recent 

times, visiting spas and parlours have become frequent. You can gift 

your brother with a spa massage package. 

Compressed t-shirts 

Price `300 

Assorted Gifts 

There are plenty of other options 

you have from which you can 

gift your sister or your brother on 

this Raksha Bandhan. Gifts like 

gold plated playing cards, fancy 

pens, office sets, lens cases, pens 

with pendrive, deodorants and 

perfumes offer an exotic range of 

choices to pick from. Select one 

that will suit your sibling’s personality, 

taste and preferences. 

Rakhi gifts for 

kids 

Everyone, especially kids look 

forward to that special gift and are 

the most excited lot. For kids in the 

age group of 3 to 10 years, gifts like 

sippers, toys, baby care kits, etc. 

are great choices. For school going 

kids, stationery, pencil boxes, 

lunch boxes, etc. are most common 

gifts. However, the latest trends include 

kids’ perfumes, trolley suitcases, 

video games and other such 

items that may be of personal use 

or used to decorate their rooms. 

Looking forward to tying that 

special rakhi on your brother’s 

wrist and getting the best gift ever?! 

vanity Kit 

Price `600 

antique mirror and 

Comb set 

Price `250 

Kid’s perfume set 

Price `299 per piece 

men’s Wallet 

Price `300 

Chocolates 

angry bird speakers 

Price `400 

8 GB pendrive pen 

Price `700

14 

Events 

JD EXCELLENCE IN 

DESIGN FEST 

Venue ITA, Machkhowa 

Date 11-08-2013 

NEXT 7 DAYS 

DATE VENUE EVENT 

17th Aug Ozone 

17th Aug Terra Mayaa 

17th Aug Club Illusion 

17th Aug ITA, Machkhowa 

17th Aug Rabindran Bhawan 

18th Aug Sankardev Kalakhetra 

18th Aug Terra Mayaa 

18-19th Kamakhya Temple 

19th Sound of freedom 

Ash Roy DJ Set-Alchemy 

Acoustic Heroes 

DJ’s School of Music 

Cultural Programme 

Pohor - Photography Convention 

Saaz 

Deodhani festival 

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22-25 NE Tennis Foundation All Guwahati Junior Doubles 

Tennis Championship 

WANT YOUR EVENT TO bE FEATURED ON THIS PAGE? 

Just mail us at info@g-plus.in 

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Venue Near GCC 

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KHADI DELIGHT: chairperson of Assam Khadi and Village Industries board 

Ms Jury S. bordoloi distributing national flags produced by the Board 

WEAVE 

THE CHANGE 

GPLUS AUG 17 - AUG 23, 2013 

8th Malestorm 

2013-14 

Venue The Crest, Shoppers Point. 

Date 11-08-2013 

Venue Big Bazaar 

Date 14-08-2013 

PHOTOS: Rupam Kalita

GPLUS AUG 17 - AUG 23, 2013 15 

Kick-Ass 2 

Neutered, looks kid-friendly 

Cast: Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Chloe Grace Moretz, Christopher Mintz-Plasse 

director: Jeff Wadlow 

This one may well be another case of ‘the sequel no one asked for’, following in the footsteps ofThe Smurfs 2, Red 2, and Percy 

Jackson: Sea of Monsters. The original Kick-Ass was a Comic Con sensation back in 2009, eventually getting picked up by Lionsgate 

and leading to director Matthew Vaughn snagging Fox ‘s X-Men: First Class directing gig. The film, produced for $30 million, 

was procured for $50 million in an early attempt to broaden Liongate’s output beyond Sawsequels and Tyler Perry productions. But 

upon release in April 2010, it played by the cult film it was always intended to be, eventually grossed just $48 million domestic 

and $98 million worldwide. 

Fortunately for the bottom line, it sold pretty darn well on DVD and Blu Ray, so now we have a sequel, not from Lionsgate 

but rather from Universal. This isn’t the first time Universal has picked up another studio’s “one-and-done” franchise, as Hellboy 

fans can attest. So 3.5 years later, we now have a sequel, creatively titled Kick-Ass 2. Directed by Jeff Wadlow this time out, the 

film cost just $28 million, so even a mere repeat financial performance of the first time out would yield eventual profitability. The 

picture is tracking at over/under $20 million for the weekend, which is close to the $19 million that the first film debuted to. 

Once upon a time in Mumbai Dobara 

Akshay, Sonakshi shatter Ekta’s dream 

Cast: Akshay Kumar, Sonakshi Sinha, Imran Khan, Sonali Bendre, 

Mahesh Manjrekar 

director: Milan Luthria 

So you have a hit film in hand, what’s the next plausible step? Make a sequel of it! Yes, that’s sadly 

the ongoing culture in Bollywood and even some of the top filmmakers are giving in to the lure of 

encashing the fame earned in their previous hits irrespective whether those films deserve a sequel 

or not. Milan Luthria is one such filmmaker who teams up with for the third time, this time around 

with the sequel Once upon A time in Mumbai dobaara (OUATIMD). ‘Agar main hero ban gaya to 

meri pehchan bura maan jayegi! Shoaib’s line to never betray his own identity might have a deeper 

meaning but for many it left their head’s tickling. 

There are other such one-liner dialogues that compliment the 80’s era where gangsters used to be filmy. Their shades never used to ditch them and 

formal suits used to be the dress code. What Milan Luthria expected was that the dialogues and portrayal of the similar era will be welcomed by its viewers. 

With Akshay Kumar, who isn’t a Khiladi anymore but is a ‘complete game’ as he says in the film, Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai Dobara is unexpectedly a 

big time let down. We didn’t expect Luthria to peek in the minutes of the law-breaking world as he didn’t glance into it in the original Once Upon A Time 

In Mumbaai. What we anticipated from him was to maintain a similar verve in premise, which won accolades in the limelight of Ajay Devgn and Imraan 

Hashmi earlier. 

OUATIMD takes off from where the first part ended. Shoaib (Now Akshay Kumar) who killed his mentor in the past to gain supremacy repeats history as 

he, in a similar fashion of his mentor, picks up a nobody from the streets and teaches him the tricks of the trade. 12 years later, Shoaib is the ruling mafia 

king from Mumbai all the way till Arab and the nobody Aslam (Imran Khan) one of his favourites in the convoy. Shoaib’s quest to nail down his rival Rawal 

(Mahesh Manjrekar) brings him back to Bombay which is where he stumbles upon a young actress - Yasmin (Sonakshi Sinha). He is immediately taken in 

by her freshness, beauty and candor. Slowly, but surely his attraction towards Yasmin goes onto becoming an obsession. 

The first installment of this franchise had become an instant hit with the masses purely for the stellar casting, astounding dialogues and tremendous 

performances. One still cannot forget the suave swagger of Sultan Mirza played by Ajay Devgn or the uninhibited hunger for power of Shoib played by 

Emraan Hashmi in the film. However, call it over confidence of the filmmaker Milan Luthria who apparently banked completely on the success of the first part 

to pay any attention to the second or sheer laxity and laziness that OUATIMD turns out to be not even half as entertaining and interesting its predecessor. 

Surprisingly, the best performance (or the best of the lot) comes from the least anticipated character Imran Khan. Being criticized for his lack of acting 

capabilities, Imran tries way too hard to impress the audience with his happy go lucky natured character and though he falls flat yet again, he still remains 

the best of the three lead protagonists. Who would’ve thought such a day will come too! Once Upon Ay Time In Mumbai Dobaara, in short, is one film that 

one wouldn’t want to chance twice upon! Inane plot, force conflict and lazy writing can bore you to death. Take this time if you want undisturbed three 

hour long sleep in an air-conditioned hall. 

Reviews 

CINEMAX 

FUN CINEMAS 

ANURADHA CINEPLEX 

GOLD CINEMA (PALTAN BAZAAR) 

chennai express Daily at 11 AM, 2.30 

PM, 5 PM & 8.30 PM 

OUaTiMD Daily 11.30 AM, 2 PM, 5.30 PM & 

8 PM 

chennai express Daily at 11 

AM & 5 PM 

OUaTiMD Daily 2 PM & 8 PM 

chennai express Daily at 12 

NOON, 5.45 PM 

OUaTiMD Daily 9 AM, 2.45 PM, 8.30 PM 

SCREEN 1 

chennai express Daily at 08.15 

AM,11.15 AM & 2.45 PM, 5.30 PM, 9 PM 

SCREEN 2 

OUaTiMD Daily at 8.15 AM. 11.30 AM, 

2.15 PM, 5.45 PM, 8.30 PM 

Mark Miller’s Kick-Ass 2 isn’t exactly a pinnacle of modern comic book art, but it is at least true to itself and true to what it 

intends to be. It is vulgar, violent, offensive, and at least attempting to be a theoretical look at a proverbial ‘real world’ infested 

by kids and adults who decide not just to be superheroes but super villains as well. This film adaptation, also titled Kick-Ass 2, 

is terrified of its own shadow, toning down the explicit content and replacing it with generic comic book movie mayhem. What’s 

left is an awkwardly staged and ham-fistedly acted adaptation that feels like there was an attempt to try to make the film more 

child-friendly. Oh sure, there is still periodic graphic violence and copious profanity, but it is all rendered in a weirdly ‘no harm, no 

foul’ fashion that makes it feel like a bad kids-flick. 

Kick-Ass was not a genre masterpiece, but it was a real movie with something to say about superhero fantasies in the real world 

and the happy medium between going full-vigilante and merely watching the world go to hell. It boasted strong acting, a few solid 

action beats, a rich and colorful palette, and a story that made sense from point A to point B. Kick-Ass 2 feels like what it arguably is: 

a cheap-looking and arbitrary sequel that has nothing new to offer in terms of story or ideas. Kick-Ass was also a movie intended for 

adults, or at least older teens. For reasons unknown, the makers of Kick-Ass 2 were afraid embrace the very things that merited, for 

better or worse, the original book’s publication in the first place. They keep the source material’s brutality and “politically incorrect” 

content at arms-length while sacrificing any potential substance in the process. Writer/director Jeff Wadlow has instead created a 

softer version of an intentionally offensive work of art which ends up being more offensive by virtue of its artistic dishonesty. With 

Kick-Ass 2, the cure is worse than the disease.

16 

Health 

Urinary TracT 

infecTion 

in Monsoons 

DR. bHIm SEN bANSAL 

(Chairman and managing Director, 

RG Stone Urology and Laparoscopy Hospital) 

Monsoon is like a festival for all. After the scorching 

heat, everyone waits for the relief in the form of 

showering water. But this energizing season is also 

the time when many health issues crop up. This is primarily 

due to sudden changes in temperature which causes the immunity 

of the human body to decrease and increase the susceptibility 

to catch infections. Also, many organisms such as 

bacteria flourish lavishly owing to hot and humid conditions. 

The most common infection that may increase during monsoon 

is Urinary tract infection (UTI). 

WHAT IS URINARY TRAcT INFEcTION (UTI)? 

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is infection of the urethra, 

bladder, ureter, or the kidneys, which comprises the urinary 

tract. E. coli bacteria cause the majority of UTI, but many other 

bacteria, fungi, and parasites may also cause UTI. Urinary 

tract infection, as the name suggests is the infection in our urinary 

system which mainly comprises of kidneys, the urinary 

bladder and the urethra. If any of these organs get infected, 

the infection is termed as urinary tract infection or commonly 

called as UTI. However, majority people suffer from lower 

urinary tract infection wherein the infection spreads across 

the urethra and the bladder. But, a urinary infection restricted 

only to your urethra and bladder can be extremely painful and 

also quite annoying. 

Urinary tract infection is not a very serious condition, 

but if not treated in time the infection may easily lead to a 

more severe condition. So, if you are not much aware about 

the infection, here is a detailed note about urinary tract infection. 

cAUSES OF URINARY TRAcT INFEcTION 

Germs are the main reason that causes the UTI and the 

infection starts from the urethra. These germs that lead to a 

urinary tract infection, reside in your body’s large intestine 

and can also be tested positive in your stools. When these 

germs get into your urethra, they can possibly travel up to the 

urinary bladder or the kidneys and lead to urinary infection. 

Women, as compared to men have more risk of getting affected 

by urinary tract infection. And, the probable reason for 

this is that women have a smaller urethra than men. Thus, the 

germs causing the infection tend to travel faster to the bladder 

or the kidneys in a women’s body in comparison to a man. 

Having sex is also one of the major reasons that cause urinary 

infection. If your partner has UTI, there is high possibility 

that you will also contract it during sex. One of the best 

ways to avoid the infection is by peeing after having sex. 

SYMPTOMS OF URINARY TRAcT INFEcTION 

The symptoms of urinary tract infection are very clear 

and hence, very easy to diagnose. Here are some of the major 

symptoms which you may check yourself for ensuring whether 

or not you are suffering from urinary tract infection.” 

• Burning sensation when you urinate 

GPLUS AUG 17 - AUG 23, 2013 

• Feeling of urinating more frequent, but not 

excreting much urine when you pee 

• Tender or a slight heavy feeling in your belly 

• Urine looks cloudy and smells bad 

• Pain under your ribs, on one side of 

your back (near your kidneys) 

• Fever and chills 

• Vomiting and also nausea. 

TREATMENT FOR URINARY TRAcT INFEcTION 

The treatment for a urinary infection is very simple and 

not at all painful. Simply drink lots of water all through the 

day and consume the antibiotics prescribed by your doctor. 

Drinking water and fluids help drain out your urinary bladder 

completely, thus also removes germs from your body. Make 

sure you eat the antibiotics regularly and complete the dose. If 

you fail to continue the regular dosage, there are chances that 

the infection may relapse. Also, improper treatment can also 

lead to a severe urinary tract infection which may also infect 

and damage the kidneys. Thus, follow the given medication 

and take good care of your health for fast recovery from the 

infection. 

Make sure to wear clothes that are absolutely dry, one 

must iron even their inner wears during the rainy season. Fragrances 

found in the various products you may use to maintain 

hygiene could also irritate your urethra, causing discomfort 

and sometimes infection. 

URINARY TRAcT INFEcTION MOST cOMMON IN 

FEMALES 

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is the bacterial infection in 

the urinary system. The bacteria present in and around the 

area may multiply tremendously during monsoon weather 

and cause infection. This may occur in females as well as 

males. However, the incidence is more common in females. 

This is because the urinary tract in women is shorter than that 

in males. Women do complain of recurrent infections. 

For women, there are certain things to be remembered 

during such season specifically. One of the most common 

reasons of UTI is the bacteria of the bowel that resides on 

the skin and gets spread to urinary tract. These bacteria then 

move upwards causing infection in the urinary bladder. The 

females should never wipe backwards to front; it should rather 

be front to back. Also, many times during sexual interaction, 

the bacteria from genital area may pass into the urinary tract 

causing infection in the urethra. Maintaining proper hygiene 

of highest order is necessary for all women. In addition, females 

who are diabetic, pregnant, or in their menopausal time 

are more prone to contract infections of the urinary tract.

GPLUS AUG 17 - AUG 23, 2013 17 

G-Sports 

saturday, august 17 

11:45 GMT Liverpool V Stoke City Anfield 

14:00 GMT Arsenal V Aston Villa Emirates Stadium 

14:00 GMT Norwich City V Everton Carrow Road 

14:00 GMT Sunderland V Fulham Stadium of Light 

14:00 GMT West Bromwich 

Albion 

V Southampton The Hawthorns 

14:00 GMT West Ham United V Cardiff City Upton Park 

16:30 GMT Swansea City V Manchester United Liberty Stadium 

sunday, august 18 

12:30 GMT Crystal Palace V Tottenham Hotspur Selhurst Park 

15:00 GMT Chelsea V Hull City Stamford Bridge 


19:00 GMT Manchester City V Newcastle United Etihad Stadium 


18:45 GMT Chelsea V Aston Villa Stamford Bridge 

KOUSHIK HAZARIKA 

Three of Europe’s best football leagues are kicking off 

this weekend. The English Premier League, the La Liga 

and the Bundesliga are all starting their seasonstoday, 

the 17th of August.The French Ligue too will begin today and 

with PSG and Monaco now splurging the cash in the transfer 

market, the French league also has also started grabbing the 

attention of the football lovers around the globe. The Italian 

Serie A is starting a week later on August 24th with Juventus 

looking to retain the Scudetto. 

ENGLISH PREMIERE LEAGUE 

The English season looks set to be one of the most exciting 

and unpredictable one in recent season. Usually it is the 

players who grab headlines every pre-season but this time, the 

managerial changes too have left everyone at the edge of their 

seats. With the Sir Alex Fergusson finally stepping down from 

the Manchester United hot seat, all eyes are on David Moyes 

to see if he can continue the Red Devils’ tradition of winning 

trophies. Jose Mourinho makes a comeback to his old happy 

hunting ground Chelsea while Roberto Mancini makes way 

for Manuel Pellegrini at Manchester City. All the supporters of 

these three clubs will expect them to hit the ground running. 

Arsenal are still trying to capture their old glory flattering 

only to deceive every year while Liverpool which has managed 

to look like a spent force for the last few seasons. With Manchester 

United and Arsenal yet to make any significant impact 

in the transfer market, Chelsea, City and Liverpool have made 

some big moves this summer. Watch out for André Schürrle 

stepping out for Chelsea, Jesus Navas for City and Iago Aspas 

for Liverpool. If United and the Gunners have their way then 

we can watch out for Fabregas and Luis Suarez respectively. 

MATCHDAY 

The best part of the summer is here. 


17:00 GMT Real Sociedad V Getafe Anoeta 

19:00 GMT Real Valladolid V Athletic Bilbao Nuevo Jose Zorilla Stadium 

21:00 GMT Valencia V Malaga Mestalla 


17:00 GMT Barcelona V Levante Camp Nou 

19:00 GMT Osasuna V Granada El Sadar 

19:00 GMT Real Madrid V Real Betis Santiago Bernabeu 

21:00 GMT Sevilla FC V Atletico Madrid Estadio Ramon Sanchez 

Pizjuan 


18:00 GMT Rayo Vallecano V Elche Campo de Vallecas 

20:00 GMT Almeria V Villarreal Juegos Mediterraneos 

20:00 GMT Celta Vigo V Espanyol Balaidos 


18:00 GMT Getafe V Almeria Coliseum Alfonso Perez 

20:00 GMT Athletic Bilbao V Osasuna San Mames Barria 

Watch out for: Wilfried Zaha (Man United) André Schürrle (Chelsea) 

Jesus Navas (Man City) Victor Wanyama (Southampton) Jores 

Okore (Aston Villa) Andy Carroll (Wes Ham) Ricky Van Wolfswinkel 

(Norwich City)Paulinho (Tottenham) 

LA LIGA 

Last season, the Spanish league seemed a little more 

than just a two-horse race. Atletico Madrid almost hunted 

down their city rivals Real with a race for the second spot 

only to fade away to third in the later half of the season. 

With their top scorer Falcao moving to Monaco in search 

of greener (read richer) pastures, Atletico moved to acquire 

David Villa from Barcelona to take up the scoring responsibilities. 

It will be very interesting to see how Real Madrid and 

Barcelona fare in the upcoming season as both have had 

managerial changes. Carlo Ancelloti moved to Real to replace 

Mourinho while Gerardo Martino was named as Tito 

Villanova’s replacement in Barca. As for player transfers, 

Neymar the hottest footballing property in the last couple 

of years was acquired by the Catalans while Madrid reinforced 

themselves with the acquisition of Spanish Under-21 

star and former Malage player Isco. It will be an interesting 

battle in the Spanish League this year but if none of the 

other clubs can mount a serious challenge, then the La Liga 

crown will head to Madrid or Barcelona again. 

Watch out for: Neymar (Barcelona) Isco (Real Madrid) 

BUNDESLIGA 

Indian footballer lovers have started following the Bundesliga 

too nowadays and with two finalists in the Cham- 


13:30 GMT Eintracht Frankfurt V Bayern Munich Commerzbank-Arena 

13:30 GMT Hamburg SV V TSG Hoffenheim HSH Nordbank Arena 

13:30 GMT SC Freiburg V Mainz MAGE SOLAR Stadion 

13:30 GMT VfB Stuttgart V Bayer Leverkusen Gattlein-Daimler-Stadion 

13:30 GMT VfL Wolfsburg V Schalke 04 Vokswagen Arena 

13:30 GMT Werder Bremen V FC Augsburg Weserstadion 

16:30 GMT Borussia 

Monchengladbach 

V Hannover 96 Borussia-Park 


13:30 GMT Nurnberg V Hertha Berlin EasyCredit-Stadion 

15:30 GMT Borussia Dortmund V TSV Eintracht 

Braunschweig 

Signal-Iduna-Park 


18:30 GMT Borussia Dortmund V Werder Bremen Signal-Iduna-Park 

pions League last season, the German league is now getting 

ever more popular. What they have managed is to churn 

out homegrown footballing superstars along with a stable 

financial system in the league. 

After winning the treble last time out, Bayern Munich 

with Pep Guardiola at the helm, look to be the team to beat. 

After buying two young midfield stars in Mario Gotze from 

Dortmund and Thiago from Barcelona, Bayern will look 

to dominate the league from start to finish. Meanwhile do 

not underestimate Borussia Dortmund as we have seen the 

two seasons before the last one when they managed to leave 

their illustrious counterparts behind. Although they look 

weaker without Gotze, the acquisition of Henrikh Mkhitaryan 

is expected to compensate for the loss. 

Watch out for: Thiago (Bayern) Henrikh Mkhitaryan (Dortmund) 

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Dortmund) 

SERIE A 

Though the Italians will start to play only next week, the 

excitement has already started to build up. AC Milan has 

a young squad with a lot of exciting young stars while Juventus 

have reinforced themselves with Fernando Llorente 

and Carlos Tevez up front. Napoli have tried to make up 

for the loss of Edinson Cavani by buying Gonzalo Higuain 

from Real Madrid and Rafael Benitez comes in as the manager. 

However, the biggest transfer coup of the season was 

completed by Fiorentina, who captured Mario Gomez from 

Bayern Munich. 

Watch out for: Gonzalo Higuain (Napoli) Fernando Llorente 

(Juventus) Mario Gomez (Fiorentina)

18 

web watch 

World’s first 

TWITTER hotel 

The Sol Wave House hotel in Majorca has 

been dubbed the world’s first Twitter hotel. 

It has Twitter-themed rooms decked out in 

blue and white decor, to match the social 

network’s iconic colour scheme, and holidaymakers 

can check-in, find out about events, 

order room service and get exclusive deals 

using dedicated hash tags. 

The hotel also has Twitter-themed parties 

and offers Twitter-themed drinks such as a 

blue mojito. When guests first check-in they 

are given access to an exclusive Twitter app, 

only available on the hotel’s Wi-Fi. Guests at 

Sol Wave can then tweet each other, share 

photos, send private messages, see who’s online 

and flirt by sending virtual kisses using 

the #SocialWave tag. 

GooGLE celebrates Independence Day 

Internet search titan Google celebrated India’s Independence Day with a doodle. Google showcased its 

India homepage with a tricoloured ribbon spelling its logo to mark India’s Independence Day. This doodle 

marks 67 years since the British declared India an independent state and left the country. Google has been 

celebrating India’s Independence Day with a doodle on its home page since 2003. Apart from that, the internet 

search titan has commemorated occasions like India’s Republic Day and Teachers’ Day as well as festivals 

like Holi and Diwali. 

LUNGI DANCE 

The video of Shah Rukh Khan’s much 

hyped tribute to Thalaiva aka Rajinikanth 

was released on the official 

YouTube account of T-series. Titled 

Lungi Dance, it is composed, sung, 

and penned by Yo Yo Honey Singh. 

In less than three days, the song 

managed to touch 6 lakh views. After 

the film hit silver screen, it has 

become the most watched video in 

YouTube. The song, which was first 

released with lyrics in a video, made 

people curious. 

GPLUS AUG 17 - AUG 23, 2013 

Yatra goes down 

while competitors gain 

Competitors of Yatra made 

hay as the online travel company 

scrambled to fix its website, 

which was inaccessible 

to customers from Sunday afternoon 

to Monday evening. 

Customers who visited the 

Yatra website on Sunday and 

for the most part of Monday 

were directed to a website (a 

domain parking webpage) 

that said “the domain has expired”. 

That fuelled speculation 

in the social media that the 

company executives forgot 

to renew the domain name. 

Dhruv Shringi, co-founder and 

CEO of Yatra, said the company 

is investigating whether the 

domain name really expired. 

“Though the expiry of the domain 

name could be technically 

true, we are still trying to 

assess the root cause of the 

problem.” 

Sounds of Wikipedia 

An open-source project called Listen to Wikipedia turns edits to the 

crowdsourced encyclopedia into a soporific audio experience. Listen 

to Wikipedia mines data from Wikipedia’s recent changes feed, turning 

additions into bells and subtractions into guitar strumming. The 

resulting audio, somewhat surprisingly, makes for the kind of soothing 

soundscape you might hear during a meditation class or massage. 

(NSFW if you want to stay awake.) The pitch changes according 

to the size of the edit. On the visual side of things, green circles represent 

anonymous edits, while purple circles indicate edits by bots 

and white circles connote edits by registered users. The size of the 

overlapping circles depends on the amount of edits to an article. As 

new users join the site, they get a welcome message at the top of the 

ever-changing graphic, and a tally of edits per minute appears at the 

bottom. 

Skype sends HD video 

calling to iPhone, iPad 

Owners of the latest iPhone or iPad 

can now see their Skype video callers 

in high definition. Skype version 

4.10 for iOS adds supports for 

HD video for both the iPhone 5 and 

the fourth-generation iPad. The latest 

update also helps international 

callers. A drop-down menu allows 

you to pick a specific country code 

rather than having to manually enter 

it. The usual improvements to 

call quality and stability are part of 

the package as well.

GPLUS AUG 17 - AUG 23, 2013 19 

1 

1. DTS 

Thanks to the support for DTS 

Digital Sorround, the Philips is 

capable of delivering greater 

frequency response, dynamic 

range & tonal accuracy as 

compared to its Panasonic 

Counterpart. 

2. cHEAPER 

The Panasonic sells approximately 

1500 bucks cheaper 

than Philips on most onine 

stores. Fact is, if that amount 

even matters for a fraction 

dont hesitate to go for the 

Panasonic. Its definately not a 

bad option, if not better. 

HEAD HEAD 

TO 

Output Channel 

Total Power 

Wireless Speakers 

Sound System 

Philips HTS6553/94 Panasonic Sc-XH170 

Sound Enhancement Dolby® Pro Logic® II 

Blueray Support 

USB Support 

Rear 

Dolby® Digital 

DTS Digital Surround 

Price `15599 

(Online store) 

5.1 Channel 

1000W RMS 

N/A 

Yes 

N/A 

Dolby® Digital 

`13999 

(Online store) 

2 

Product 

For a home theatre system, both Philips and Panasonic 

are pretty evenly matched. Both these brands have 

a respectable reputation in the home entertainment 

and these two home theatres would sure enhance your 

viewing experience in the comfort of your home. 

The Philips HTS6553/94 Home Theatre Comes with 3D 

Angled Speakers, Dolby Digital, EasyLink to control all 

HDMI CEC devices, HDMI, Touch panel, Wireless rear 

speakers Features. It Plays DVD, VCD, CD and USB devices. 

The Panasonic SC-XH170 Home Theatre is designed 

to enhance your home entertainment system. It is a 5.1 

Channel Home Theatre System and the system gives you 

up to 1000 W RMS sound output. Moreover, customising 

your entertainment experience is a breeze with its userfriendly 

onscreen interface. It has a rich and dynamic 

bass sound with its Bass-reflex Subwoofer along with the 

20 cm big woofer. 

As mentioned before, both the models dole out impressive 

performances and the choice will be a subjective. It 

also makes sense to remember that you should also pay 

attention to your room dynamics to extract the best experience 

from a Home Theatre

20 

fun 

YOUR WEEKLY DOSE OF TIMEPASS 

HOROSCOPE 

aries 

On Monday, all that hard work 

will start to pay off. For a while there 

it seemed like nothing was ever going 

to get done, but by sheer force of will 

you have turned a couple of lemons 

into the tastiest lemonade. You have this 

amazing ability to make the realization 

of your goals seem inevitable, and this 

is especially true on Wednesday and 

Thursday. People bend over backward 

to help you out. Now the challenge is 

going to be to set your sights on, well, 

a new challenge. Use Friday and the 

weekend for planning your next steps. 

This is only the beginning of what is going 

to be a glorious ride. 

taUrUs 

At the start of the week, you encounter 

one snag you weren’t expecting. 

Who knew that you-know-who 

was on a power trip? It never ceases to 

amaze you how loony people can be. 

So, what’s your plan? By midweek, you 

wisely figure that your best bet is going 

to be to try to kill them with kindness. 

Figure out what it is this person really 

wants — adoration? attention? — and 

then try to give that to them without 

actually giving in. You are a master 

diplomat, especially on Friday. It may 

take some time to see real changes, but 

you’ll get a glimmer of hope over the 

weekend. 

Gemini 

You’re lost in your head on Monday. 

A couple of big ideas are churning 

around in your brain, and rather than 

engage in idle chitchat you’re most likely 

going to decide to turn a little inward 

and let yourself daydream through 

midweek. That’s perfectly okay. Explain 

to others that it’s not personal: 

You just have a couple things on your 

mind. It’s a pretty sure bet some people 

are going to think you’re being aloof 

nonetheless — and you are, in a way 

— but that’s your prerogative. Later in 

the week and over the weekend, you’ll 

feel more social again. 

. 

JUST foR LAUGHS 

CanCer 

On Monday, you have one idea 

about how you want this to go, while this 

other person has another. You just see 

things differently. And there’s no way to 

tell, at this stage, who’s right and who’s 

wrong. Don’t jump to any conclusions, 

especially midweek. You both have 

good intentions. Instead, take this all in 

stride. And, speaking of taking strides, 

go for a long walk or two, especially on 

Friday and Saturday. The world has so 

much to offer in terms of beauty and 

adventure. The quieter you are, the 

louder and more enjoyable the sounds 

of the outside world will become. 

Leo 

You know that old saying about 

how if you love something you should 

let it go? There’s a lot of truth to that, 

especially at the start of the week. 

Lately you’ve been clinging desperately 

to things that you just shouldn’t 

have in your life. If they are meant to 

be, they will stay with you no matter 

what happens. Midweek especially is 

going to be about figuring out what 

things in your life are golden and what 

are merely gold-plated. Just because 

something glitters, as you know, doesn’t 

mean it’s valuable. This weekend, 

you’re going to learn something new 

about someone you love, and it’s going 

to change everything. 

virGo 

Your old system? Obsolete. 

Doesn’t work for you any more, you 

realize at the week’s outset. As your life 

continues to change, your routines need 

to change, too. Maybe you should start 

waking up earlier. Maybe you should 

take more risks and be less rigid in your 

ideas about others. Maybe you just 

need a new file cabinet to keep your 

incoming mail organized. Whatever it 

is, be open to your own evolution, especially 

on Wednesday and Thursday. 

Change can be scary, but these changes 

are for the better. Toward the end of 

the week, you’re going to meet someone 

who’s a lot less organized than you 

are and it’s going to drive you nuts! 

LiBra 

At the week’s start, you get what 

you’ve been waiting for: Someone to 

spend the day with, laughing and cavorting 

(and, if this is a romantic figure, 

perhaps even a little snuggling). Life is 

suddenly fun again. Weird how fast 

that can happen, huh? This is going to 

be a roller coaster of a week, especially 

Wednesday. Lots of good stuff, 

plus a couple of boring stretches of 

time tossed into the mix. If anything, the 

boring hours will make all the fun you’re 

having seem that much more wonderful. 

This weekend is going to be all 

about you and your special someone. 

sCorPio 

On Monday, you have tons of 

questions: What’s going on at home? 

Why does everything suddenly seem 

so chaotic? And — the bigger question 

— does it have anything to do 

with you? If at all possible, don’t involve 

yourself in the madness. Let the others 

hammer out a solution. You have bigger 

fish to fry. And better things to do. 

Wednesday and Thursday, in particular, 

are going to be top-notch days, full 

of creative games and hilarious situations. 

Your friends are amazingly fun to 

be around. Over the weekend, though, 

you should take it easy. The world will 

be strewn with ‘Watch Your Step’ signs. 

Lay low and don’t do anything wild. 

saGittariUs 

How are you feeling? What’s going 

on in your head? Get it off your 

chest at the start of the week. At the 

very least, put it all in an email to a 

good friend and send it off. It will feel 

so great to know there is someone else 

in the world who knows what’s really 

going on. If you find yourself having 

trouble getting revved up by the middle 

of this week, well, that’s to be expected. 

No amount of coffee is going 

to fix that. You need your spiritual batteries 

recharged and you’re storing up 

your energy for sunnier days. Sunnier 

days are on their way. The weekend 

will be particularly bright 

A man was sued by a woman for defamation of character. She charged that he had called 

her a pig. The man was found guilty and fined. After the trial he asked the judge, “This 

means that I cannot call Mrs. Johnson a pig?” The judge said that was true. “Does this 

mean I cannot call a pig Mrs. Johnson?” the man asked. The judge replied that he could 

indeed call a pig Mrs. Johnson with no fear of legal action. The man looked directly at 

Mrs. Johnson and said, “Good afternoon, Mrs. Johnson.” 

Solutions (Last Issue) 

CaPriCorn 

Monday, it’s time to start planning 

for the future. No sense in expecting 

things to take care of themselves. If 

you sit down and write out your goals, 

that will make them that much more 

tangible. And once your goals are tangible, 

you’ll be able to create a plan of 

action, especially on Wednesday and 

Thursday. You have all the materials 

you need, and you have a couple of 

troops ready to go into battle for you. 

Use Friday to decide what the marching 

orders are. This weekend, your priorities 

are going to temporarily shift a 

little bit. Someone in your family is going 

to need a favor. 

aQUariUs 

On Monday, you’re feeling great. 

You have a lot of energy and clarity 

and you finally know where you’re 

going. Too bad on Tuesday that your 

friends are all out of sorts. (Maybe you 

can use your own clear-headedness to 

help them out?) There’s a chance that 

you’re going to be distracted from your 

mission later in the week — again, a 

friend is going to need something, and 

you’re going to feel like it’s important 

to come through for them — but this 

weekend you’ll have the opportunity 

to turn your thoughts back to the things 

that really matter to you. 

PisCes 

You can only help so many 

people at once. You’re just one person. 

Still, you’re feeling a tad superheroic, 

and there’s a chance you’ll be able to 

pull off a couple of superhero-worthy 

stunts on Monday. But on Tuesday or 

Wednesday, you’re going to start feeling 

drained. Remember: Even superheroes 

need their rest. Spend Thursday 

and Friday restoring your energy and 

doing stuff you really love to do. This 

weekend, a whole new challenge is 

going to present itself, and you’re going 

to want to be as clear-headed as 

possible. (A hint: Not everything will be 

as it appears.) 

SUDOKU 

GPLUS AUG 17 - AUG 23, 2013 

What is Kaal Sarp Dosh? 

Kaal Sarp Dosha implies many meanings in 

Sanskrit, but there is danger and a threat to life 

associated with the word. Of its many meanings, 

we can safely conclude that Kaal means time, and 

Sarp means snake or serpent. Kaal Sarp Dosh 

can cast its inauspicious shadow over property, 

finances and health.

GPLUS AUG 17 - AUG 23, 2013 21 

Travel 

Sitting by Nainital’s lakeside cafes and sipping 

lattes while watching the vibrant boats 

sail past is the perfect way to unwind with 

friends. Tucked away in the cosy confines of 

the Himalayas, this town gives you the perfect 

experience of a good girly weekend with the 

Tibetan market and Mall road to hit in the 

evening for retail therapy and gently sloping 

paths for a pleasant walk in the hills! Scented 

candles adorned with dried flowers are the 

town’s specialty. 

Girls on 

the Go 

A favourite among college students, Khandala 

is a picture-perfect vacation spot with 

its scenic beauty and untouched landscape. 

You can sit back and clear your head as cool 

winds play with your hair, or put on your 

boots and step out for a trek and explore the 

town’s historic forts and sparkling waterfalls. 

The charm of this hill station has been known 

to make many an unsuspecting wanderer fall 

in love. 

At the Jaipur’s Nahargarh fort, one can climb 

atop the ancient walls and get a picture perfect 

view of the twinkling lights and bright colours 

of the pink city. The aura of mystique surrounding 

Jal Mahal and Hawa Mahal will 

draw any self-respecting romantic towards 

it, while the wealth of local culture and cuisine 

offered at Chokhi Dhani is an excellent 

way to spend a day in the company of 

your best friends! The shopping scene doesn’t 

disappoint you either with local markets like 

Jauhari Bazar, Bapu Bazar and Nehru Bazar 

offering you everything from jootis and 

bangles to kurtas and artefacts. 

On girls’ trips, all you want to do 

is settle into a beach chair, mist 

on sunscreen and relax with a 

multi-coloured cocktail or sit with 

your girlies, unwind and indulge in 

girl talks or just go about the streets 

for an exciting shopping experience. 

What’s more fun than hanging out 

with the most important ladies in 

your life while feasting on awesome 

meals, indulging in pampering spa 

treatments or experiencing the great 

outdoors. 

Travel experts believe that women 

represent the fastest growing and 

most important segment within the 

travel market, in terms of both leisure 

and business travel. With an increase 

in discretionary money available to 

them, an impressive number of women 

are travelling today for pleasure. 

Possibly the biggest upsurge for 

women travelling solo is that they 

might be encouraged by a major life 

change or just feel that it’s time to do 

something for themselves. Many join 

trips designed for women, which offer 

safety and companionship and help 

focus on oneself and the joy of camaraderie 

increases the sense of fulfilment, 

confidence and resiliency. 

Not just travelling to places for 

escaping the madness of daily lives, 

women travellers are getting more 

adventurous; they’re trekking, bicycling 

and kayaking. They want to experience 

local cultures, with cooking 

lessons, shopping and meeting with 

local businesswomen. They’re crafting 

their own itineraries. 

Girls and women in Guwahati are 

also upbeat about girlfriend getaways. 

Their families, parents and spouses 

are becoming more open to the idea of 

allowing them their time. 

We have listed out few destinations 

in India where girls can head to. 

Pack your sunglasses and swimsuits and 

spend lazy hours on the beach soaking in the 

sun and revelry all around. Goan markets 

are known for their cosmopolitan products 

with the most popular items being seashell 

craft, wooden lacquer ware and brassware. 

The range of trendy jewellery and accessories 

that one can pick up from here is amazing. 

The Wednesday market at Anjuna Beach, the 

Saturday night market at Baga beach and 

the Friday market at Mapusa are such spots 

where interesting souvenirs and trinkets can 

be bought at reasonable prices. 

Kumarakom, a cluster of islands around the 

Vembanad Lake in Kerala, offers you one of 

life’s most rejuvenating experiences. The spa 

treatments and Ayurvedic massages here are 

famous all over. The place is also popular 

for the coconut shell artefacts that are sold 

here, from earrings and fashion accessories 

to lamps and masks.

22 

G-Talk 

POINT 

GPLUS AUG 17 - AUG 23, 2013 

Is there a political motive behind 

declaring the Jains as a minority community? 

Mahavir Jain 

President, Shree Digambar Jain Panchayat, 

Guwahati 

The Jain population is very less in our country and in fact they are 

even less than half percent of the total population of India. To protect the 

community as well as to safeguard the values of Jainism, it was necessary 

to declare them a minority community. Such declaration will now provide 

many facilities under the minority act. This will help in protecting the Jain 

religion and their future in the country. Because the population is so less, 

the question of political agenda does not 

arise at all. At the time of independence, 

Sikhs, Christian and Jains were all sepa- 

rate communities but unfortunately the 

Jains were never declared as minority. 

Though the decision to declare it a minority 

community arrived lately but it is 

a correct decision taken by the government 

and we hope that it will help the 

Jain community. 

Now we will get a few minority benefits 

like Jain education centres, where up 

to fifty percent Jain students will get first 

preference in terms of admission and accommodation. 

There will be no objection 

for these preferences. There will be 

no interference in following our religion 

and like Christians and Buddhists provide 

various facilities to their community 

people, even Jains will get the same. 

The Jain people are very strict with their 

religion and follow a very hard routine. 

Today, perhaps for this reason, the Jain 

food is famous all around the world and 

many people including the foreigners 

have a liking towards the principles and 

teachings of Jainism. It is a very ancient 

religion and so its protection is a must. 

We are not asking from the govern- 

“ 

We are not 

asking from 

the government 

any 

kind of service 

quota 

through this 

system but 

yes, the community 

will 

be protected 

now through 

this minority 

act.” 

ment any kind of service quota through this system but yes, the community 

will be protected now through this minority act. Jainism principles, 

values and systems are very different from others, so, these values must 

be guarded well and since we are so less in number, a day might come, 

that even our community might get extinct and that is why this minority 

declaration will help to protect our culture. The tribal communities are 

given facilities by the government in order to protect their culture, but 

in our case the government will not provide something extra except for 

the basic protection. We thank government for declaring Jains as minority 

community in Assam. Though almost in all the states this declaration was 

already done, but inspite of a little delay in Assam, hopefully we will be 

able to do something good now. The minority commission has also done a 

commendable job and the Centre too has played a good role. Also for the 

declaration, the Jain community of Assam will felicitate Chief Minister 

Tarun Gogoi and express their happiness. 

Pranjal Rajkonwar 

President, All Tai Ahom Students Union 

COUNTERPOINT 

Presently in Assam, the people who are included in the sixth schedule of the 

Indian Constitution themselves are not satisfied with their status. In this case, 

we can take the example of the Bodo community. 

Every issue, right from the minority status granted to the Jain community 

to the declaration of Telengena as a separate state, has a political benefit. If the 

government thinks that an issue has a political benefit, then they decide to act 

accordingly. 

The government has granted minority 

status to the Jain community but the people 

belonging to this community already 

Government 

should provide 

facilities 

to all the religious,linguistic 

and 

other minority 

groups but 

it does not do 

that and this 

is the game of 

politics. 

“ 

have a good status and reputation across 

the country. They have been contributing 

in the fields of politics and economy of the 

country. I do not know why they have accepted 

it. There might be some political 

benefit and might feel deprived in their 

own state. 

If tomorrow, the Punjabis are granted 

minority status, then it would be a matter 

of shame. Because they have a hold in 

every walk of life. They have a good work 

culture. 

At the moment, people residing in the 

state of Assam and belonging to different 

castes, communities and religions are 

a minority because anyone can buy and 

sell land in Assam. In about ten districts 

of the state, the ownership of land is being 

transferred to other people, because of the 

lack of a constitutional safeguard for the 

indigenous people of the state. In districts 

like Nagaon, Morigaon and Dhubri, outsiders 

have bought lands from the locals 

and have themselves turned into majority. 

Therefore, in order to obtain land security of the indigenous people of the state, 

we are asking the whole state to be declared as a tribal state. Moreover, I do 

not think that granting minority status to the Jain community will have much 

impact in Assam. 

In the mean time, a wrong idea regarding the definition of minority has 

been prevalent across not only the state but also the country’s politics. People 

generally call the Muslims a minority, but apart from religious minority, there 

also exists linguistic minority in Assam. 

Government should provide facilities to all the religious, linguistic and 

other minority groups but it does not do that and this is the game of politics. 

We have no reason to object if some communities are declared as minority 

but if the central government does not to consider the Northeast, then the gap 

between the NE and Delhi will increase further. Instead of following the policy 

of divide and rule, as followed by the British, the governments in the centre 

and state should chalk out a good strategy for the whole NE region. Because, if 

all the people belonging to different castes, communities, religion and linguist 

groups of the state stand in unison, the government will have got nothing to do.

GPLUS AUG 17 - AUG 23, 2013 23 

Railway Ticketing Agents 

Citypedia 

GPlus will keep on publishing such relevant and useful information in this page in the coming issues. Compiled by Rangman Das 

AbG TRAVELS 

Opp. Dispur Dhaba, Ganeshguri 

Guwahati – 781006 

Phone No – 98640-24110, 0361- 

2205858 

ANAMIKA TRAVELS 

317, Srimanta Market 

A.T.Road, Guwahati – 781001 

Phone No – 94351-01553 

ARSHA TRAVELS 

Near Hatigaon Outpost 

Bhetapara Road, Hatigaon 


Phone No – 99547-91761 

bISHAL TOURS & TRAVELS 

Manipuribasti, Guwahati – 781007 

Phone No – 98640-74093 

bS TRAVELS 

Survey Beltola 


Phone No – 0361-2620203, 

94012-63114 

cOzY TOURS AND TRAVELS 

Dighalipukhuri East 


Phone No – 0361- 

2636351/2547490 

FLY INFINITY 

AT Road, Bharalumukh 


Phone No – 0361-2510549, 

98640-18777 

GANAPATI TOUR & TRAVEL 

SS Market, RP Road 


Phone No – 0361-2220313, 

94350-88017, 98640-36269 

GDK TRAVELS 

KC Sen Road, Paltan Bazaar 


Phone No – 99572-18051 

GUWAHATI RENTAL SERVIcES 

GNB Road, Silpukhuri 


Phone No – 0361-2130965, 

98645-58333 

IcP TOURS & TRAVELS 

Opp Hanuman Tower 

Aathgaon, Guwahati – 781001 

Phone No – 94356-96081, 94350- 

11690 

IRcT cORPORATION LTD 

Mandovi Apartment 

Ambari, Guwahati – 781001 

Phone No – 0361-2737122/23 

JAcUzzI VOYAGE & TRAVELS 

Opp. B.Baruah College 

Ulubari, Guwahati – 781007 

Phone No – 92070-40348, 98641- 

73474 

KIRAN TRAVELS 

Ganeshguri Chariali 


Phone No – 98540-25704, 98648- 

46835 

KRISHNA TRAVEL AGENcY 

Ganesh Market, Lal Ganesh Tiniali 


Phone No – 94016-89042, 98640- 

59389 

LAzEEz TOURS & TRAVELS 

Opp. ASTC, Paltan Bazaar 

Phone No – 0361-2736931, 

99543-87294 

Branch – 

Near Hotel Nandan, Paltan Bazaar 


Phone No – 0361-2735288, 

98647-53085 

LEE TOURS & TRAVELS 

Tarun Nagar Main Road, ABC 


Phone No – 97078-68200 

MAA cORPORATION 

G.S. Road, Paltan Bazaar 


Phone No – 99544-39888 

MARS INFOTEcH 

SJ Road, Aathgaon 


Phone No – 0361-2733453, 

94350-41025 

NcS TRAVELS & TOURS (P) LTD 

Bulbul Market, Fancy Bazaar 


Phone No – 0361-2547878, 94357- 

87878 

NE TRAVELS 

Masjid Gali, Kamarpatty 

Phone No –94350-42111 

NORTH EAST TOURS & TRAVELS 

ME Road, Paltanbazaar 


Phone No – 97075-03315, 0361- 

2139361 

NIRMALA TOURS & TRAVELS 

Prof. Gali, Lakhtokia 


Phone No – 94353-08595, 0361- 

2514333 

PAcE TRAVELS 

Md. Shah Road, Paltan Bazaar 


Phone No – 0361-2734986, 

94351-01813 

PAWAN TRAVELS 

Beauty Market, Fancy Bazar 


Phone No – 0361-2730678, 

2517538, 94350-44911 

PURAbI TRAVELS 

Lal Ganesh 


Phone No – 0361-2492426, 

98643-26832 

RAFTA ENGINEERING 

Bhetapara Chariali 


Phone No – 98540-08747 

RANI SATI TRAVELS 

Chandika Market, Fatashil 


Phone No – 0361-2491673, 

98644-24200 

REEVE TOURS & TRAVELS 

Opp. News Time Assam 

36, Shima Plaza, Ground Floor 

Phone No – 98644-91137 

RISHA TOURS & TRAVELS 

GMCH Road, Bhangagarg Kalimandir 


Phone No – 98649-24226 

SAHANI TRAVELS 

AK Azad Road, Rehabari 


Phone No – 95085-74771 

SN TRAVELS WORLD 

Bhetapara Chariali 


Phone No – 0361-2306190, 

98640-87352 

Branch – Hatigaon Chariali 

Near Hatigaon Police Station 

Guwahati - 781006 

Phone No – 98648-22777 

TRAVELPORT TOURS & TRAVELS 

Panjabari Road 


Phone No – 0361-2337232, 

98640-96250 

TRAVEL SMART 

Jayanta Communications 

Silpukhuri, Guwahati – 781003 

Phone No – 0361-2666666, 

2666999, 99547-11185 

VINAYAK TRAVELS 

Afsar Lane, Lakhtokia 


Phone No – 94351-05334 

z AND z TRAVELS 

FA Road, Machkhowa 


Phone No – 0361-2600786, 

96780-01968

24 

Catching up 

Headlining acts! 

To subscribe 

type GPLUS 

and send 

it to 56677 

GPLUS 

OPINION 

POLL 

PREVIoUS PoLL 

RESULT 

Will you celebrate 

Independence Day 

68% YES / 32% NO 

Should the proposed 

food bill be passed? 

SMS GPLUS YES/NO to 56677 

Adah Sharma 

WHO’S SHE? 

This babe is a Bollywood 

actor who debuted with 

Vikram Bhatt’s 1920. She 

garnered rave reviews for her 

performance. 

SO WHAT? 

She is a gymnast and is currently completing 

her graduation in Kathak from Gopi 

Krishna’s Dance Academy. Adah was born 

in Palakkad district of Kerala and hails from 

a non-film background. Her father is a captain 

in the merchant navy and her mother 

is a dancer. 

NOW WHAT? 

She’s set to freeze million hearts 

as Adah has reportedly been 

roped in opposite Nithin 

Reddy in filmmaker Puri 

Jagannadh`s upcoming 

Telugu romantic-drama 

Heart Attack 

oommen Chandy 

pick of the week 

CM’S I-DAY SPEECH No matter how hard our honourable chief 

minister Tarun Gogoi tried to woo the audience on Independence Day 

by his scripted views, the audience mostly found it irritating and 

the scorching heat added to the pain. The speech failed to 

keep many march past participants in their positions 

and some cops and school kids even fainted struggling 

to pretend they are listening to Mr. Gogoi! 

GPLUS AUG 17 - AUG 23, 2013 

WHO’S HE? 

He is an Indian politician and is the current Chief Minister of Kerala since May 2011. 

Previously he was the Chief Minister from 2004 to 2006 and was the Leader of the 

Opposition in the Kerala Legislative Assembly from 2006 to 2011. 

SO WHAT? 

Chandy ventured into the political arena as an activist of the Kerala Students Union 

(KSU), the student wing of the party. He was the unit president of KSU at St George 

High School, Puthupally and went on to become the State President of the organisation. 

Chandy completed his college education from CMS College, Kottayam, SB 

College, Changanassery. Later, he took a bachelor’s degree in law (LLB) from Government 

Law College, Ernakulam. He is also a trade unionist and heads several INTUC 

affiliated outfits. 

NOW WHAT? 

With the UDF government announcing a judicial probe into the solar scam, the CPI- 

M led LDF Opposition which has been demanding resignation of Chief Minister 

Oommen Chandy, ended its siege. In a conciliatory move, Chandy announced the 

decision to hold a judicial probe into the solar scam after consulting senior leaders of 

the Congress and its UDF allies. 

Sindhurakshak tragedy: Sabotage suspected 

Veteran submariners are suggesting that the Navy should not rule out the possibility of 

sabotage in the sinking of INS Sindhurakshak, even as indications are emerging that the 

vessel was preparing for “a war patrol” with armed torpedoes and cruise missiles close 

to Pakistani shores. Their suggestion that the ordered naval board of inquiry (BoI) — 

chaired by a senior officer from the submarine wing should thoroughly probe the sabotage 

angle stems from the fact that warheads of the torpedoes and missiles have several 

layers of security features built in to avoid inadvertent blasts aboard the vessel. 

‘officer who filmed himself having sex is a warning to others’ 

A Sydney police officer convicted of secretly filming himself having sex with women is a warning to others, NSW police commissioner 

Andrew Scipione said. Senior Constable Marc David Osborn, 42, was found guilty of three counts of filming a person engaged in a private 

act with the purpose of obtaining sexual gratification. Osborn, from the Gladesville local area command, had denied filming the acts for 

sexual pleasure – saying his motivation was to show his younger police colleagues that “the old man’s still got it”. 

India unveiled its first indigenously-built aircraft carrier, a landmark moment in the $5 billion project that seeks to project the country’s power and 

check the rising influence of China. When the INS Vikrant comes into full service in 2018, India will join an elite club of nations that have designed 

and built their own aircraft carriers including Britain, France, Russia and the US but not China. 

what did i just hear? 

A Chinese zoo’s supposed “African lion” was exposed as a 

fraud when the dog (A Tibetan Mastiff) used as a substitute 

started barking. The zoo in the People’s Park of Luohe replaced 

exotic exhibits with common species, according to 

the state-run Beijing Youth Daily. It quoted a customer surnamed 

Liu who wanted to show her son the different sounds 

animals made — but he pointed out that the animal in the 

cage labelled “African lion” was barking. 

Kamur of the week 

Printed & published by Sunit Jain on behalf of Insight Media (A division of Insight Brandcom Pvt. Ltd.) 34, KC Choudhury Road, Chatribari, Guwahati 781008, Assam. 0361 2737737, email - info@g-plus.in, Editor – Koushik Hazarika.

8th Issue

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