The other side of New year revelry
Published January 3, 2012 | 
New Year celebrations in Kerala often boil down into ostentatious show of pomp and money power. New Year revelry is all about fast music, wild dance, DJs and drinks for many. However behind the glitter and the glamour of the New year revelry there were some dark moments that would leave us all ashamed.
The merry making males went overboard after downing a few hard drinks when they tried to molest the North Indian bar girls in the New Year parties in a three star hotel in Cochin. The staff and managers of several hotels had a difficult time shielding the girls from the straying hands of the spirited revelers.
In the city of Cochin alone, 878 cases were registered of which 568 were for drunk driving, wrong parking etc while 200 cases were booked for public boozing and a few related to clashes among party revelers. The city malls were jam packed with young revelers who shouted and sang all night that kept the families off.
The tourist hub of Fort Kochi also bore the brunt of the great carnival. Heaps of plastic containers of take away food parcels , decorative stuff, and loads of empty liquor bottles that remain mute testimonies of the drinking habits of Malayalees were all strewn around carelessly. It is paradoxical that as we become more educated we turn insensitive to everything around us including the less fortunate souls. It is high time that we pick up the art of celebrating special events without causing nuisance to others and littering public places !
2011- A round up of events in Kochi
Published December 28, 2011 | As the city of Cochin is getting ready to usher in the New Year, it is time to look back at some of the major milestones in the city calender. The year 2011 has been of mixed fortunes for this city with a fair share of good and bad events. With a slew of innovative projects like the Metro rail and ROBs on the anvil, the business capital of Kerala indeed can look forward to some brighter and prosperous days ahead.
IPL brings cricket fever to Cochin.
The Indian Premier League’s tryst with the city of Cochin brought in cheers and frenzy among the the die hard fans of cricket . Though it made an unceremonious exit just after a season,The T 20 extravaganza offered a few memorable moments to the cricket lovers of Kerala in the form of well fought live matches in Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium. The star studded team of the now defunct Kochi tuskers Kerala had some of the well known faces of international cricket who played along the home grown talents of the State including P Prashanth , Raiphi Vincent Gomez and Prashanth Parameswaran , which was quite inspiring for the cricketing fraternity.
Kochi goes global with ICTT Vallarpadam
With the inauguration of The International Container Transshipment Terminal (ICTT) Vallarpadam in February 2011, Kochi became an international logistics hub in the elite league of maritime trading nations. Touted as one of the most modern ports, Kochi will be a preferred choice for traders all over the world for its quick cargo handling facilities and would pose a tough challenge to many other nearby ports like Colombo, Singapore and Dubai. However the internal squabbles between SEZ and customs officials and the high loading and unloading costs have put ICTT in a hard spot now.
Vyttila Mobility Hub
Though the much hyped Vyttila Mobility hub has failed to bring in much respite from the traffic congestion, it could give shape to a long pending plan to have an integrated transit terminal in the city. The hub has been designed as a converging point for all public transportation modes including long distance buses, metro rail and inland water transport. At present the hub serves as a bus station for both city and long distance buses.
Apple A Day - One of the biggest real estate frauds in the State
Kochi will be rounding off 2011 on a sour note of the apple a day scam. In what could be termed as one of the biggest real estate frauds in the state of Kerala , a Kochi based company ‘Apple-A-Day Properties’ reportedly swindled a staggering amount of 100 crore from buyers which included 125 Indian expatriates in the Middle East. Now the cases are pending and the Kerala State Legal Services Authority has appointed an advocate to mediate the disputes between the investors and the company directors and to arrive at a possible solution.
With the count down for the New Year celebrations already started , we at Karma Kerala wish all our patrons and well wishers all over the world Merry Christmas and a prosperous and happy New Year .
Christmas festivities dampened by the dam woes
Published December 23, 2011 | 
Christmas in Kerala has always been a special occasion for all Keralites who celebrate every festival with fervour and zeal irrespective of their castes or creed. For most Malayalees, Christmas is not all about cookies, carols, cakes and wine but well cherished moments of family holidays and tours. Probably Malayalees have evolved to be one of the most touring populace in India these days, in a notable shift of habits of the yore . With a larger disposable income in hand and an urge to live life King size, Keralites make use of their holidays to the most.
However , the raging dam controversy , which has unleashed many violent incidents and unsavoury road blockades and political gimmicks on either side of the Kerala and Tamilnadu borders, has created a smoke screen of mistrust and fear. As there had been isolated instances of stone pelting on the Kerala vehicles crossing the Tamil Nadu border and vice versa, people are not willing to take risk. This could mean that most of them would be forced to put off their holidays till the murky Mullaperiyar dam situation is brought under control. Considering the fact that even private vehicles are not spared by the miscreants, holiday makers are virtually grounded without any options to move out of their cities.
In cities like Cochin ,the revelers will have late night party options, dance , special dinners and festivities apart from the elaborate ritual of downing a heady dose of liquor, which remains the most popular party activity in Kerala. On the occasion of Christmas, the festival of compassion and love , let us set aside the differences and work towards a feasible option to solve this nagging dam controversy, which if left unattended will have a spate of long term repercussions on either side. Let us welcome the New Year of 2012 with smile and peace by celebrating brotherhood and empathy!
For further Reading : A compilation of Christmas and New Year articles
Diwali at Karmakerala
Published October 27, 2011 | We at Karmakerala had a nice time bursting crackers and lighting sparklers etc as part of Diwali, the festival of lights…would prefer not to waste words, let pictures tell it all…
Onam sadya being replaced by chicken delicacies
Published September 13, 2011 | 
It appears that Malayalees have decided to let go the flavour and richness of the conventional onam sadya this year if the record sales of Chicken during Onam season is any indication! This year the trend has been to include non vegetarian dishes, which not only has snuffed out the carnival flavour and richness of this festival but also has made onam sadya into an ordinary non vegetarian meal on a plantain leaf, which is nothing short of a mockery of our culture!
Gone are the days when elaborate onasadya used to be made at home, which will include many exceptional onam specialities like banana chips, pickles of various varieties, payasam and other sweetmeats apart from a long list of mouth watering curries and side dishes. From ready made Onam kits to handy take away Onam specials and Onam luncheon offers in hotels, there is a lot of options for Malayalees these days, however, it is astonishing that Malayalees preferred to stick to meat dishes for Onam.
The onam sales of chicken in many KEPCO ( Kerala State Poultry Development Corporation) stalls all over the State hit an all time high during Onam. In the capital city alone around 45 tonnes of chicken was sold in just 4 days from Uthradom to Chatayam days, creating an all time high record. The shockingly high chicken sales in Trivandrum city alone raked in a total turnover of a whopping Rs.35 lakhs, in these four days, which clearly points to the changing cultural pattern and food habits of Kerala society.
The eating habits of Malayalees have indeed undergone a sea change in the last few years and many people prefer non vegetarian dishes and fast food instead of the traditional and healthy menu of Kerala. It is paradoxical that Kerala , which was once famous for its healthy life styles and health care rituals has plunged into the whirl pool of fast food culture and is heading for a point of no return. The unhealthy food habits coupled with boozing of Kerala has triggered a spate of serious health issues and has reduced the life span of its populace alarmingly. Figures show that Kerala consumes 5,000 tonnes of meat every day and 80% of its population are non vegetarians, making it the largest meat eating population in the country . Not to forget the dubious distinction of having the highest per capita liquor consumption in the country, which makes it a really unhealthy combo by any standards.At least during the festival season of Onam and Vishu, let us abstain from non vegetarian dishes to make sure that the unique culinary richness of our State is not lost forever!
Kerala decks up to celebrate the grand festival of Onam 2011
Published September 6, 2011 | 
Keralites all over the world are looking forward to celebrate the home coming of King Mahabali and the Onam festival that falls on Friday. One of the most important days in the festive calender of Kerala, Onam festivities span over 10 days starting from Atham. Keralites have left nothing to chance; elaborate floral carpets , sumptuous feasts and the folks dressed in their best, everything is in place to make Mahabali happy and to show off the prosperity and happiness of his subjects! However beyond these cosmetic grandeur there is rot of corruption, nepotism and mismanagement that would force the king to scurry back to his subterranean abode!
To cater to the needs of the Keralites who are getting ready to celebrate Onam, wagon loads of flowers from Tamilnadu have already reached the city. The vendors have camped in vantage spots all over the city to grab the attention of the Onam shoppers. Though the flowers are being sold at exorbitant rates at a rate of over 150-300 Rs per kilo for many flowers like white marigold and yellow and orange jamanthi, this has not dampened the shopping spirits of the people. Gone are the days when Malayalees used to deck up the floral carpets with traditional flowers like Thumba, mathapoo and chembarthi. The new generation kids might not even know what all these are!
The unseasonal rains and the wet weather too has played spoil sport this year and the road side vendors are the most affected by this. There are onam fairs, payasamela and handicrafts exhibitions in various venues, which are jam packed with shoppers. The onam bonus and early salary has added the much needed impetus in driving up the shopping frenzy of the salaried class .
We have lost the classic charm of home made meals and the warmth of family get togethers somewhere down the time line. In the onslaught of the modern life styles where nobody has time for anything , the ready to eat onam kits and ready made payasams come as handy aids to enjoy an Onam feast before dashing off to any movie theatre or to some exotic locale for a family holiday. It is indeed sad that we have long lost the essence and virtues associated with this festival. These days, the lure for money and power has pushed back the virtues into oblivion that were held so dear by our legendary king . However, let us all get together to welcome the king who had dreamed of a virtuous and truthful society as a tribute to him and his land of Kerala!
Alappuzha gets decked up for the Nehru Trophy boat race
Published August 9, 2011 | 
Punnamada lake, the venue of the fabled Nehru Trophy boat race has been a beehive of activities for the last few days as snake boats, each rowed by over 100 oarsmen in quick unison started their practice sessions, ahead of the grand competition on Aug 13. The last few days marked a surge in the number of tourists arriving at the Punnamada lake to witness this unique water sport.
The snake boat race is something exceptional to Kerala and the length of a snake boat varies from 120 feet to 140 feet and will have about 120 oarsmen, who will display a marvelous spectacle of rowing in unison well complemented by high pitched songs and resonant drum beats to add up to the mood. 16 snake boats and around 40 small boats will be participating this year in the 59th edition of the race, which is being sponsored by a single sponsor for over 2.50 Crore, which incidentally is the highest ever. Another highlight of this year’s event is that one of the snake boats of United Boat Club, Kainakary has roped in a group of 51 soldiers from the Madras Engineering Group in its team of oarsmen.
The boat race, which dates back to 1952 was held as an impromptu race in honour of the then Indian prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru who visited the state. Nehru, who was thrilled by the performance of the oarsmen had suggested to make it an annual event. On returning to Delhi, Nehru donated a silver trophy, a replica of a snake boat placed on a wooden abacus with an inscription and his signature, which is awarded to the winners in the snake boat race.
Preparations are in full swing and Alappuzha is getting braced up for the event, which is one of the most popular events in Kerala itinerary among tourists, including foreigners. So, make sure to be there to be part of this excepting spectacle, which is not seen anywhere else in India. It is interesting to note that it was featured in the online creative venture of the New Zealand community, the big idea, which shows its universal appeal and popularity.
Did you know that the gold you are wearing could cause cancer
Published July 15, 2011 | 
All that glitters is not gold; and going by the latest reports, this famous axiom could well be proven right! Next time when you buy gold, keep in mind that K.D.M.( cadmium) which is used as a joint in gold jewellery could cause cancer. The goldsmiths also face a high risk of contacting cancer or skin disease due to the continuous exposure to Cadmium vapours. It is ironical to note that though Cadmium is banned worldwide for manufacturing jewellery, it is used in many developing countries like India.
The Government has introduced hallmark system for gold jewellery to check the use of cadmium and while applying for a license the manufacturer has to give undertaking to the effect that he would not use cadmium in any way. However, the law remains only on paper as its implementation is not ensured. Many jewellers flout the rules openly, putting the lives of millions of goldsmiths working in the industry and the gold crazy population of India at risk. Wearing gold ornaments with KDM for a long time can cause ‘Contact Dermatities’ or skin allergies. However, as no research studies have been taken up on this subject, buyers remain oblivious to the risks involved.
This piece of startling information is particularly important in the context of Kerala that accounts for one third of 800-odd tonne annual consumption of gold in India. Buying ornaments as investment and as jewelery has been part of the culture of Keralites for generations. This tiny state of Kerala is one of the world’s hungriest gold markets thanks to the NRI remittances and on any given day, you could see swelling crowds in the jewelery shops of Kerala, which will increase manifold during special occasions like wedding seasons or Akshaya Thritiya. Check out this blog of Miss Malini, which makes an interesting read on the gold craze of Indians 
So, before lapping up the latest designs in gold, you should be well informed on the dangers of buying KDM gold. Never be a gullible buyer; insist on cadmium test while buying gold jewellery and be happy , healthy and prosperous. Recently, in a counter-affidavit submitted by director of the Bureau of Indian Standards ( BIS) before the Kerala high court, it was stated that highly carcinogenic elements such as iridium and ruthenium were being freely added to gold ornaments in India. So, before spending all your life time earnings on the lure of yellow metal, remember that the cancer scare could well be the cost that you are paying on every gold purchase!
Read more on the gold craze of India in the Wall Street Journal article here : India’s $600 Billion Hidden Treasure
Kerala gets ready to celebrate Vishu
Published April 14, 2011 | 
Kerala is all set to celebrate the harvest festival of Vishu tomorrow, which is the first day of the month of Medam in Malayalam calendar. Hindus celebrate this festival in different names like Baisakhi, Mesadi, Bihu in different parts of India. Vishukani is the most important ritual on Vishu festival in Kerala. Temples like Sabarimala and Guruvayoor temple will witness unprecedented rush of pilgrims who congregate to have the Vishukani darshanam.
Vishu kani is the offering of farm produce, fruits and vegetables to Lord as a thanks giving to a bountiful harvest. The native crops of Kerala like mangoes, jackfruit, bananas etc occupy a prominent place in Kani which is arranged in the traditional vessel of uruli ( a shallow round vessel) made of brass. The golden shower flowers, known as kanikonna forms an inevitable item in the kani. The elders of the family give Kaineetanm ( cash gifts) that represent a prosperous year ahead to the rest of the family. New clothes, fire works, gifts and above all the traditional Kerala style luncheon with many curries , pappadam and payasam ( desserts) add up the fervour of this festival.
Vishu festival also marks the day of Mesha Sankranti during which Sun transits to the first zodiac of Aries. The word Vishu literally means the equinox and is considered as the astrological New Year day as well. Though the break neck speed of modern lives have robbed off the charm and traditional flavour of many of our festivals, even today Malayaless look forward to celebrate Vishu with zest and enthusiasm. Vishu is not just another holiday, it is part of our culture and identity. Let us celebrate the way that it was intended to, without diluting the essence to suit our convenience:)
Karma Kerala wishes all its readers a happy and prosperous Vishu