Article 340.

Article Published in The Gulf Today Uae on 1March 14 (340).

Naughty at 60

Members of our senior citizens club went for an outing recently. It turned out to be a memorable  experience. A few members exhibited their talents in singing old film songs. 

Though many of us were in our 60s or 70s, we freaked out like children. As they say, it is better to be childlike than childish. 

We were naughty in our own way, cracking jokes, eating out and making merry. I realised that age is not a barrier for anyone to be happy.
K. Ragavan

Letter.

Letter Published in The National Uae on 28Feb 14
Sharjah's links with India  are welcomeI welcome the news that Sharjah, which is known as “the cultural emirate”, wants to bolster its trade links with my home country.

Sharjah has a large Indian expatriate population, so importing Indian products to the emirate makes good sense.

The bilateral relationship between India and the UAE can only get stronger as a result of this ­initiative.

K Ragavan, India

 

Letter.

Letter Published in The New Indian Express Bangalore India on 27 Feb 14
Peace in AP
Power &Politics9TNIE 23 Feb 23)by Prabhu Chawla made an interesting read.Despite so many mixed reactions and opposition, the UPA passed the Telangana Bill.The author's comparison of decision- making
skills of the old leaderswith the present one smade perfect sense.Whatever be the out come,the people of Andhra Pradesh should be able to live peacefully
K.RAGAVAN
Bangalore.

Letter.

Letter Published in The National Uae on 27Feb 14Jihadi groups do not help anyone

The editorial Infighting may rid Syria of extremists (February 25) was spot on. The turmoil in Syria has provided the environment that jihadi groups need to thrive. But they help none. It’s good that they are fighting among themselves and burning themselves out, but Syria needs a quick solution.

President Bashar Al Assad has proved himself too selfish. No one needs a leader who can’t act for the well-being of his people. The tragedy is that the world is doing too little to end the suffering of the Syrians.

K Ragavan, India

Life is Beautiful 205.

Exactly after ten minitues Kathambari reached her  building.They took the lift  and reached 401 of   fourth floor.Vasanthy was eagerly waiting for their arrival and the moment she heared the bell came and opened the door.
Vasanthy.How are you Mr Ram.My congratulations to your Company for the rating from Merc.
Ram.Thank you.How are you.
Vasanthy.I am fine.Please come in side.
They entered  the spacious hall.Hall was nicely decorated with colourful pictures.
Vasanthy.What  you  have,frech juice or Soup.
Ram.I like fresh juice if  Al Rawabi brand available.
Vasanthy.Yes,Kathambari's favourite i too like .I will bring.
Kathambari.Mumma ,you sit .Iwill bring.Kathambari went to kitchen to bring  the Juice.
Vasanthy was looking Ram and smiled.You have not changed
Ram.You too Vasanthy,your voice and your  beautiful  smile has not changed.Love you.
Vasan thy.Itoo Ram.Today i am very  happy to see you .
Ram.Iwas longing to see you ,but time  only delayed.
Vasanthy.Iam not bothered about our delay in meeting.
By that time Kathambari entered the hall.
Sorry for the delay.Ram you want ice.
Ram.No ,i Get cold.With out ice most welcome.
Kathambari.Mumma also does n't like ice.Only  I like.
She gave the glasses to Vasanthy and Ram.
Ram.Lovely taste.I enjoy this drink
Vasanthy.I too,
Then they talked about Dubai and it's growth over a period of three decades with modern infrastructure
Ram.It was amazing.A Desert has gone to this extent was wonderful.This achievement can be possible only with Committed Visionary Leaders.
Vasanthy.Very true.
Kathambari.I also fully endorse with you people.
By that time Kathambari's phone was ringing
(to be continued).
K.Ragavan.
See You Next Week,
25-2-14.

Letter.

Letter Published in The National Uae on 25 Feb 14Runners deserve appreciation

I refer to the news report Abu Dhabi Terry Fox run participants raise Dh 387,000in just one day (February 22). It’s heartening to hear that the one-day event broke the previous record in terms of raising funds for charity.

Although this event promotes health and fitness, it’s mainly a campaign against cancer. The fact that so many people spared their time to participate in this drive is to be appreciated.

K Ragavan, India

Tribute to Cinematographer Faredoon Irani 287.

Today i am going to pen another versatile personality who  has created a very big impact five decades back is none other than  Cinematographer Faredoon Irani from Bolly Wood industry.Known for his shots both indoor as well out door in many of his films.Worked with top class actors and Directors  of Ester years is worth to be mentioned here.He was associated with MehboobKhan for few films if i am right.Mother India was a hit movie in those days  with SunilDutt ,Nargis and other famous actors.He won filmfare award for this movie as well Dunia. His film Aan was the first technic color movie.One of his movie was inspired by Holly wood Cecil B.DeMille to create his The Sign of the cross was  also worth to be mentioned here.He was also the instrumental person to form Western India Cinemato Grapher's Association  in  1953 at Mumbai. Even though he has More then twenty films to his credit i still remember few films of this doyen.Those films are,Aan, Palki,Mother  India,Aadmi,Duniya,Amar and Gambler .Today i am very happy to tribute this Wonderful Cinemato Grapher and his creations.Mother India and Aan no one can for get.
K.Ragavan.
See You Next Week,
24-2-14.
www.ragavan-creativity.blogspot.com

Letter.

Letter Published in The New Indian Express Bangalore India on 24Feb 14,City Express issue
MY CITY MY TAKE
DIVIDING B'LORE UNIVERSITY
Good INITIATIVE
Afairly good recommendation. If it is bifurcated in five zonesin different places,students will be beneifitted in reaching the university.This will give better education-al spirit,governance and
above all healthy competition.
RagavanKrishnamachary

Letter.

Letter Published in The National UAe on 23Feb 14Pharma policy needs rethinking

The news article India clamps down on clinical drug trials, at a cost (February 20) was an interesting read.

India has introduced restrictions on clinical trials following concerns about the safety of test patients, and it has become a much more complex and lengthy process to secure permission for trials. As a result, many companies were compelled to shift their trial bases abroad.

India has the largest number of pharmaceutical factories approved by the FDA outside of the US. That’s why India needs to rethink its policies over clinical trials.

The country has seen dramatic developments over the years in the pharmaceutical export market. That is all the more reason for it to eliminate this issue as soon as possible.

K Ragavan, India

Article 339.

Article Published  in The Gulf Today Uae on 22 Feb 14(339)

Wrong examples

I was sitting in the room with my grandsons and watching television. When I turned on the news channel, I noticed politicians fighting in the parliament over some issue, throwing and hitting the guards. 

Even the children in the room were commenting that the fights were like in a movie. I just put off the TV to avoid children getting a feeling that all politicians are bad. 
K. Ragavan

Letter.

Letter Published in The New Indian Express Bangalore India on 19 Feb 14 City Express Issue
MY CITY MY TAKE
BBMP BUDGET;CIVIC ANALYSTS
NOT IMPRESSED
NEED COMMITTED VISIONARIES
Nothing is going to change BBMP,spromise and projects.Earlier also BBMP could not proved it's mettlein executing the projects.only the negative side was visible.Lack efficiency,rampant corruption have resulted in huge losses.Now to restructure this  with huge investment may not serve the purpose.Ultimately because of BBMP;S faultpeople have to suffer for civic amenities.We need committed visionariesto over come this issue which is not happening.
Ragavan Krishnamachary

Letter.

Letter Published in The New Indian Express Bangalore India on 19Feb 14
Political View
PrabhuChawla's Power &Politics made for good reading (TNIE ,Feb 16).Politics and diplomacy are on different levels and the visit of US diplomat Nancy Powell clearly indicates that economy plays a very important role.India has a huge market and the foreign countries know this.Above all the visit,was significant keeping  in mind the present  political scenario where NarendraModi is being projected the future prime minister.
K.RAGAVAN
Bangalore

Life is Beautiful 204.

Ram took the phone.Prasanna was on the other line.
Good after noon sir,How are you.
Ram.I am fine.What is the matter.I never expected from you at this hour.
Prasanna. Nothing is particular.I have not  talked you for long time.That is the reason i wanted to say hello to you.
Ram.Kind of you.I always remember you.How is mother and  other friends.
Prasanna.All are fine.O.K. Take care Bye
Ram.Bye,you too take care.Regards to all our friends.
After talking with Prasanna ,his  bell was ringing.He opened the door saw Kathambari was standing.
Good after noon Ram.Shall we make a move.
Ram.I am ready.But while going i want to buy Mysore Pak from Krishna sweets .
Kathambari.No need.Mummy prepared Mysore pak at home.
Ram.I see .
Kathambari.Mummy and me fond of Mysore pak.
Ram.Every body likes.I am very much fond of this sweet.
While driving Kathambari expressed her happiness that their Channel was rated best in Middle east.
Ram.Kathambari  it was a good news for us in the new year.Let us hope 2014 will be a healthy year for all of us.
Kathambari.Yes,i too pray for that.At that time she received
 a call from Vasanthy.
Ram take my  mobile and talk to mum.
Ram.Hello,Who is on the line.
Vasanthy was never expected her call will be taken by Ram.
Vasanthy.I am Vasanthy here, i am waiing for you both.
Ram was happy to hear the sweet melody voice  of his Beautiful Vasanthy.
He wanted to tell  Ilove you,but  could n't because Kathambari was driving
Ra.We are on the way .Another ten minitues we will be there.
Vasanthy. O.K.See you in the house.
(to be continued).
K.Ragavan.
See You next Week,
18-2-14..

Letter..

Letter Published in The National Uae on 19 Feb 14 What prompted Kejriwalto quit?
Although Mr Kejriwal is a wonderful activist who fought for the common people on issues such as corruption and inflation, he lacked administrative and governance abilities.
It’s true that he was able to win the confidence of the people of Delhi at one point and fulfilled a couple of promises, but his actions have eclipsed many of his positives. It was imprudent on his part to express ambition to contest the national election soon after quitting his post as chief minister of Delhi.

Despite AAP’s popularity causing jitters among Congress and BJP, the party and its supremo have a long way to go. The editorial has rightly pointed out that skills of governance can be acquired only through experience.

K Ragavan, India

Tribute to Cinematographer G.Vittal Rao 286.

Today i am going to pen another interesting film personality from Tamil film industry is none other than Cinematographer G.Vittal Rao..He has created a good  image  four decades backwith  Late Director A.Bheem singh is worth to be mentioned here.Worked with many leading heroes of ester years and directors.His association with Director  A.Bheem singh made him a good name in the industry.Beautiful out door shots will be more visible in his movies.He has given many remarkable movies in which a couple of films i still remember.Those movies are Anbu,Bhagapirivinai,PasaMalar,Rakhi,(Hindi) Gopi  (Hindi) Pachai Vilaku,Palani,  Memorable Paar Magaley Par ,PavaMannipu, and some films i could n't recollect.Director A.Bheem Singh and G.Vittal Rao 's combination was one of the best in those days.With out much technological advancements Vittal Rao has delivered many  memorable movies.Today Indian film industry has many talented technicians in all fields and particularly Cinematography. Vittal rao has also contributed to Hindi ,and other languages movies. Today i am happy to tribute this  stalwart who inspired cine fans with his work.
K.Ragavan.
See You Next Week
17-2-14.

Letter.

Letter Published in The National Uae on 17Feb 14Unruly MP should be taken to task

I was shocked to read the news report Indian MP releases tear gas in parliament during Telangana debate (February 13). I wonder why these legislators are not punished by their parties for such uncivilised behaviour. As for this individual, he should be sacked from his party immediately and should not be eligible to contest the election, which will serve as an example for others. That is unlikely to happen and his shameful action will only set a bad precedent.

K Ragavan, India

Article 338.

Article Published in The Gulf Today Uae on 15 Feb 14 (Article 338)

Cherry’ friend

On my routine walk, a friend greeted me and enquired about my recent trip to Chennai to attend many weddings. After a brief conversation, he asked, “Did you meet your ‘cherry friend’?” I had written about a cheery friend recently in a newspaper and was happy that he remembered the article. Who says the print media is weakening!
K. Ragavan

Letter.

Letter Published in The National Uae on 13Feb 14Amritsar a dark chapter in politics

The report on Britain’s role in the Amritsar operations was an interesting read (Britain confirms ‘limited’ role in deadly raid on Golden Temple, February 5).

Despite the statement by the British foreign secretary William Hague that his country’s involvement was limited to “advising India” before the deadly 1984 raid on the Golden Temple in Amritsar, it was very unfortunate.

This statement coincided with Rahul Gandhi’s recent television interview. It is evident that Britain might have stayed away from all this had Congress not encouraged it to advise.

These are some of the dark chapters of Indian politics.

K Ragavan,

Letter.

Letter Published in The New Indian Express Bangalore on 12Feb 14 City Express Issue

MY CITY MY TAKE

WORK DELAY BY RAILWAYS

CORRUPT ATTITUDE

Railway projects being given to private investment firms ma be a viable solution.when

private investors are involved,thy may do a better jobif selected by merit and back ground.Transparency and accountability is very important.Self interest often over takes public interest  because of corrupt attitude. It is high time that projects start without further delay.

Ragavan Krishnamachary

Life is Beautiful 203.

Kathambari took the phone.Atkinson was in the other line
Kathambari.Good morning sir.
Atkinson.Good news to you  Kathambari .Our channel won the best rating in Middle east.
Kathambari.
Yes i heard just now from Ram.He was trying your number but switched off.
Atkinson.I see ,i called you for other reason that our today's lunch programme cancelled.
Kathambari.Why
Atkinson. Lizioli's wife was admitted in the hospital for mild heart attack.He has to fly along with his friend.
Kathambari.O.K.Sir i will pass this message to Ram.
Vasanthy was happy to hear this news.
Kathambari called Ram and told that their afternoon meeting with Lizioli was cancelled.
Ram as per the original plan you are coming to our place for lunch.
One minitue i will give to Mummy.
Vasanthy.Ram come to our home  for lunch.Kathambari will pick you from your place.
Ram.O.K.See youin the after noon.
Ram was happy about the sudden development.At last he has destained to meet his beautiful Vasanthy.Same thinking came to Vasanthy also  i need not tell.They are designed beauti fully for each other.
Ram  decided to buy some sweets particularly Mysore pak of Krishna sweets which vasanthy likes very much.
He was ready at 12-30.At that time his phone was ringing.
K.Ragavan.
See You Next Week,
11-2-14.

Tribute to Cinematographer B.S.Lokanath 285.

Today i remembered another interesting  film personality from south indian film industry is none other than Late Cinematographer B.S.Loganath.He was associated with Stalwart Director K.Bala Chander for many years.He was one of the Popular Cinematographers five  decades back created  a big impact was not a exaggerated one.With out much advancement in  those days he made a big name  with his wonderful shots both in indoor as well out door.He  has won Tamil Nadu state film award and National film award for Apoorva ragangal and Ninaithale Inikum is worth to be mentioned here.He has contributed more then 60 films  of four languages  to be laudable. He has worked with all top class actors and Directors.I have seen couple of films of this doyen.Those movies are,Apoorvaragangal,Ninaithale inikum,Agni satchi,Ek dujhe keli ye (Hindi)and some films  i am unable to remember.Liked by one and all from the film fraternity.Even though he has departed his remarkable frame work in front of us..He was created a new concept  in Cinematography in those days with out much  technical advancement.Today i am happy to tribute this Wonderful Personality.
K.Ragavan.
See You Next  Week,
10-2-14.
www.ragavan-creativity.blogspot.com

Article

A rticle Published in The Gulf Today Uae on 8Feb 14  (336)

Tot’s noble thought

A few days ago, I had occasion to pay a routine visit to a friend’s place. After a welcome cup of tea and the usual parleys, his grandson who had returned from school, entered the room we were seated in and dutifully greeted me.

He then went on to say to his grandfather: “Grandpa, I’ve given the books and pencils to that school.” I was keen to know why the lad was giving books to another school. My friend explained that his grandson had been saving a portion of his pocket money in a small box, and each time, after accumulating a decent sum, he was using the saved money to purchase books and pencils for distribution among needy children in a nearby government school. 

This he had been doing for a year or so. My friend went on to tell me what prompted his grandson to do what he was doing. “Our servant’s son is studying in that school and once, when he happened to visit that school, he was taken aback by the lack of proper infrastructure and facilities the children had to contend with.

 That day itself, he made up his mind to do something about it. Ever since, he has been contributing his mite to their cause. I was absolutely thrilled to learn of a student in only the third grade undertaking to do what many adults have never even thought of doing. As I took leave of my friend, I patted the boy and gave him my blessings for his noble act.
K. Ragavan

Letter.

Letter Published in The New Indian Express Bangalore India on 5Feb 14 City Express issue
MY CITY M Y TAKE
KEA OFFICER ISSUES ILLEGALNOTIFICATION
SAD STATE OF AFFAIRS
This incident is highly condemnable.People can not act like this with out any one's support.The authorities concerned should have vigilance on officers  as well students periodically.All these years education department was not involved in corruption.Now every where corruption reflects.This issue should be tackled immediately.
Ragavan Krishnamachary

Life is Beautiful 202.

Ram was  so happy to hear the sweet voice of Vasanthy.Many people have got the sweet voice and Modulation  irrespective of their age.Ram and Vasanthy has got this gifted voice is true.Both like the  voices of  actors Amitabbachan, Shatrugun Sinha,Om Puri, RazaMurad, and late Wonderful actor Amrish Puri.
Ram.Vasanthy i am Ram  wishing you a Very Happy and Healthy New year .
Vasanthy.Same to you.I hope this year  may change our life.
Ram.I also wish. How are you.
Vasanthy.I am fine. Kathambari  told me about your today's programme.Profession is first. In fact i wanted to call you and congratulate about your Company's ratings by Merc.To day morning i saw the news in The National.
Ram.What a coincide i wanted to tell Kathambari about this.That was the reason i called.
Vasanthy.Any way i am happy to hear your sweet voice.I remember our first meeting we  discussed few actors wonderful voice.
Ram.How can i forget those beautiful days.
Vasanthy.True.
By that time Kathambari came from the third floor.
Mummy,whois on the line.
Vasanthy.Ram wanted to convey to you  that your company has got best ratings from Merc.Iwill give it to you talk to him.
Kathambari.Is  it I am thrilled to hear this news on the new year.Did Atkinson knows this.
Ram.I tried to contact him but his mobile was switched off.
At that time Katham bari's phone was ringing
(to be continued)
K.Ragavan.
See You Next Week,
4-2-14.

Letter.

UAE is best place for building jobs

Arabtec in Dh22bn contract to build 37 new towers in Dubai and Abu Dhabi (February 23) was interesting to read.

It’s laudable that the capital will get 28 new towers, not just to improve its appearance but also to create jobs for 10,000 people.

This is a clear indication that the UAE has overcome the world financial crisis and will retain its position as the region’s best hub for international employment opportunities.

Kudos to Abu Dhabi.

K Ragavan, India

Tribute to CinematoGrapher RamaChandra Babu 284.

Today i am going to pen another interesting film personality from South is none other than Cinematographer Ramachandra Babu.Even though he hails from tamil nadu he worked with four languages films and won many awards from Malayalam film industry is highly Commandable.Studied in the famous Pune film institute for cinematography and worked with famous Directors like M.T.Vasudevan nair,  I.V.Sasi Mani Ratnam and many others.Known for his brilliant shots and made a big impact in Dweep his first Colur film  won the award for  Cinematography.Followed by this few more Malayalam movies he won awards is worth to be mentioned here.Apart from this four languages he worked in English and Arabic language is important.He has also worked   many prominent positions in various committees is important. Even though he has huge films to his credit i have seen few memorable  films of this Doyen.Those films are,Agraharathil Kazuthai,OreVanam Ore Bhoomi,Allavudinum Arputha Vilakum,Chamaram (Malayalam)Paadum Vanam Badi,Pagal Nilavu,and Mandira Punnagai.One of the few technicians with high back ground respected from the film fraternity. Incidently he studied from Layola College were many prominent personalities produced. Today i am very happy to tribute this Stalwart
K.Ragavan.
See You Next Week
3-2-14.
www.ragavan-creativity.blogspot.com

Letter.

Letter Published in The National Uae on 2Feb 14

Gandhi's remarks dis appointingI enjoyed reading the news report Rahul Gandhi presents a poor case for Congress in TV interview (January 28).

While answering questions to the anchor of the Times Now television channel, Rahul Gandhi said that the Gujarat government was responsible for 2002 riots and Narendra Modi’s administration did not do enough to end the communal violence.

He also said that the 1984 riots during the Congress’s reign was a natural consequence and no one can be blamed for it.

This is the first time Mr Gandhi has opened his mouth and when he did, he blamed Mr Modi, who has been given a clean chit by the court over the Gujarat riots. Mr Gandhi’s statements were of little help to the Congress.

K Ragavan, India

Letter.

Letter Published in The New Indian Express India on 1Feb 14
Akhilesh's Claim
Akhilesh's one year comparison with gujarat was nothing but a laughing fact.UP has seen only freebies,corruption and entertainment and above all  a couple of riots in one year.But Gujarat people have seen progress in infrastructure like roads,water ,electricity,and above all a good environment  for trade.From the beginning Gujarat has witnessed development.That UP has to go a long way is a fact.
K.Ragavan
Bangalore