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Ashford Malayalees celebrate Christmas and New
Year
Ashford Malayalee Association, Ashford, Kent celebrated Christmas
and New Year on December 28 at North school hall Ashford,
Kent. Public meeting chaired by AMA presdent Sojan Joseph,
Adv. Paul john was the chief guest and AMA secretary Aby Mathew
welcomed the guests. (more)
UK's database plan condemned by Europe
Human rights commissioner says government plan to store information
is violation Britain must rethink plans for a database holding
details of every email, mobile phone and internet visit, Europe's
human rights commissioner has said in an outspoken attack
on the growth of surveillance societies reported Independent.
(more)
Nottingham  Malayalee
Cultural Association`s Christmas
Nottingham Malayalee Cultural Association (NMCA), Celebrated
Christmas and New Year at New Venture Social Club, Beeston
on December 27. The programme was inaugurated by Mayor of
Nottingham: Councillor, Gul Nawaz Khan. Manu Zachariah, former
General Secretary welcomed the audience and Cyriac Joseph,
Vice President of NMCA chaired the public meeting. Guest of
honour was Bhavesh Jani, Nottingham Asian Arts officer. (more)
T ribute
to Harold Pinter the Nobel prize winning playwright and powerful
political campaigner
Harold Pinter who died on Christmas eve was described as
the best playwright of Britain in the twentieth century. He
was also a bold campaigner. In the most powerful Nobel prize
speech in 2005 Harold Pinter attacked USA and Britain for
its occupation of Iraq (more)
KCA celebrates Christmas in Southall
 Kerala
Catholic Association of the UK celebrated Christmas on December
27 at Featherstone School, Southall.
The programme was attended by Fr James Crampsey,
S.J, Fr. Michael Barnes, S.J, Virender Sharma MP for Ealing,
John Biggs London Assembly Member and other community leaders.
KCA Observed one minute silence in memory of the victims of
Mumbai terror attacks.
The educational award for the GCSE and A Level
was won by Charmaine Antony and Lucy Angilose. There was an
entertaining programme performed by various communities from
UK. The Kerala Catholic Association unveiled a new shirt for
the Kerala Sports Club and new KCA calendar for the community.
(more pics)
Friends Family Club celebrated Xmas and
new year in Haywards Heath
Xmas carol, father Xmas, group music, dance, skit and other
variety programmes entertained the audience at Friends Family
Club Christmas celebration in Haywards Heath.
(photos)
SNGM celebrated Christmas in East Ham
with variety programmes
 Sree
Narayana Guru Mission of the UK celebrated Christmas in its
East Ham London E6 centre with variety of programmes including
classical dance, Hindi filmic dance, Malayalam cinematic dance,
mimicry, film song with mimicry background, Poetry recital,
English pop song and host of other programmes. SNGM, President
Dr Nirmaladevi Ravindran, secretary Mohanakumar and Rev Fr
Chacko Panathara - chaplin of Brentwood addressed the audience
and arts and culture chair person Manambur Suresh welcomed
the audience. (Please
click here for the photo gallery)
KCA celebrates Christmas in Southall
Kerala Catholic Association (KCA) of the UK is celebrating
Christmas and New Year on December 27 at Featherstone Sports
Centre in Southall. Various communities will present a variety
of stage events. Mr. Virendra Sharma, Member of Parliament
for Ealing Southall and Mr. John Biggs London Assembly Member
will be chief guests.
All are welcome to attend the function. For more information
please visit www.kcauk.org.
Christmas New year celebration in Ashford
R egardless
of the credit crunch affected Christmas celebrations in UK,
Malayalees in Ashford, Kent are preparing for a big Christmas
and New Year celebrations in its traditional way. Ashford
Malayalee association celebrates Christmas and New Year on
Sunday the 28TH of December at North school hall Ashford,
Kent. Adv. Paul john will be the chief guest for this gathering.
Father Christmas is visiting all malayalee families in Ashford
and last day of carol will be 21ST December. For more details
please contact AMA secretary Aby Mathew, Programme co ordinator
Joji Kottackal and Carol Co ordinator Jomy George.
Asian woman`s fight against forced marriage
Humayra Abedin an NHS doctor  from
East London was freed by a Bangladesh judge after her parents
tried to force her into a marriage she didn’t want. It
has been hailed as landmark victory thanks to Bangladeshi
judge, Justice Syed Mohmed Hossain. Campaigners believe forced
marriages are taking place in Pakistan, India and Bangladesh.
Humayra Abedin came to Briatain 6 years ago to study for a
Masters degree in public health at Leeds university. After
receiving false message that her mother was ill she returned
to Bangladesh and then her parents tried to force her into
a marriage she didn’t want. Dr Abedin's solicitor, Anne-Marie
Hutchinson, says the case has significant contribution to
the fight against forced marriages. (more)
HSMP- skilled migrants celebrate High Court
victory over Home Office
Thousands of skilled migrants in Britain are celebrating
another legal victory over the Home Office after winning High
Court permission to challenge unfair retrospective changes
to their visas.
The home secretary, Jacqui Smith, threw away at least £85,000
of taxpayers' money in a previous battle that saw the High
Court come down resoundingly in favour of skilled migrants.
(more)
NMCA celebrates Xmas and new year in Nottingham
Nottingham Malayalee Cultural Association (NMCA) celebrates
Christmas and New Year on 27th December 2008 at New venture
Social Club in Beeston, Technology Drive, Nottingham. The
programme will begin at 10 am and include variety programmes.
Gull Nawaz Mayor of Nottingham will inaugurate the event and
city council Asian Arts officer Bhavesh Jani and barrister
Usha Soode address the audience – Jason
Rs 25,000 raised at “Keralappiravi”
celebration of “Ente Keralam” in East Ham
 “Keralappiravi”
celebration titled “Ente Keralam” in East Ham, London
has raised Rs 25,000 for the socially deprived people of Kerala.
The money generated as voluntary donations from the audience
was sent to the Kannaadi programme of Asianet to distribute
to the eligible people.
Rajiv Ouseph`s victorious march from Scottish
Open to Yonex Irish International Badminton Championship
 English
national Badminton champion and Malayalee Rajiv Ouseph moves
from victory to victory at international games.
English National Champion and number three seed Rajiv Ouseph
defeated seeded number six, Evans, the Irish National singles
Champion and Beijing Olympian in the final in straight sets
21-5, 21-19 at the Yonex Irish International Badminton Championship
Final in Baldoyle on 7th of December.
England's Rajiv Ouseph has taken the singles titles at the
Bank of Scotland International Badminton Championships in
Glasgow few weeks earlier in November. English national champion
Ouseph beaten sixth seed Anand Pawar from India 21-17 21-8.
Asians sitting on a diabetes 'time-bomb'
UK-based South Asians face a health "time-bomb"
in the next 30 years due to the prevalence of diabetes within
the community.
Lack of exercise and diet which is high in fat are the main
reasons for the disease. 30% of patients receiving dialysis
in Birmingham are Asians!! It is feared that widespread ignorance
about the disease threatens the lives of tens of thousands
in the UK. The chronic disease leads to high blood sugar which,
over time, can cause blindness, stroke, amputation, kidney
failure and heart disease.
This stark warning is just one of the remarks made by campaigners
behind a film aimed at raising awareness about the disease
reported BBC (more)
LIMCAs colourful Children's Festival in
Liverpool
Liverpool: Scores
of people assembled in Broadgreen International School on
Saturday 29th November 2008 to participate in the LIMCA Children's
Fest. This was the third Children's Fest organised by LIMCA.
This year's theme was "Gandhi – The Mahatma".
More than 160
children participated in the competitions arranged in four
age groups. Competitions were held in colouring, painting,
memory test, essay writing, singing, Malayalam and English
elocutions, fancy dress, classical dances, group dances and
quiz. (more)
Newham remembers victims of Mumbai terror attacks
More than 200 people attended an event at Newham Town Hall
in East Ham on Monday evening to remember the victims of the
terror attacks in Mumbai, India.
Candles were lit in the Lister Room at the Town Hall in Barking
Road as residents, councillors, staff from Newham Council
and East Ham MP Stephen Timms, gathered to offer their condolences
and sympathies.
(more)
Sahrudaya Sandhya 2008 – a charity event
for Abhaya
Bodhi UK will be conducting a 12-hour event, titled Sahrudaya
Sandhya 2008 to raise funds to help the children of Abhayabala.
It will take place on the 20th December from 3pm to 3am at
2 different venues in East London and will consist of cultural
programmes followed by Dinner and Dance. Abhayabala is part
of Abhaya charity in Trivandrum. Bodhi UK has promised to
raise a minimum of RS100,000 for “Abhayabala,” Abhaya’s
endeavour to tackle disadvantage among children and young
people. (more)
Ente Keralam a memorable day for London
"Keralappiravi" celebra tion
titled "Ente Keralam" in East Ham, London became
a memorable event for London Malayalees. It may well be the
first celebration of Keralappiravi day in London. "Ente
Keralam" was a passage through the different eras of
Kerala history, art and literature. There were over 45 different
items of dance, classical music, songs, poetry recitals and
fashion show and pleasantly no time to rest the mind and sensibility
of the audience. (more)
Tremendous success of the Keralappiravi
celebration
"I was so delighted to see the tremendous success of
the Kerala Piravi event with children and adults giving spectacular
performances with enchanting music and colourful dances of
supreme quality. The show provided a nostalgic feeling of
Kerala taken place in the form of Mohiniyattam, Kavitha, dances,
classical music, Kerala style fashion show and songs.(more)
Film on Artist Raja Ravi Rarma at London
Film Festival
Ketan Mehta`s "Rang Rasiya" - a powerful
and passionate film
"Rang Rasiya" the powerful and passionate
film by the great director of India Ketan Mehta was an artistic
and popular success at the London Film Festival. Both shows
of the film in main Leicester Square Odeon 1 and Watermans,
Brentford were sold out well in advance. "Rang Rasiya"
is the story of Artist Raja Ravi Varma the father of modern
Indian painting. It is also the story of Sugantha the muse
of his paintings. Above all it is a fight for the freedom
of expression by one man against the religious fundamentalists
in nineteenth century which has far reaching resonance in
today`s life. Full review of the film by Manambur Suresh has
appeared in the latest edition of Kalakaumudi weekly. (Read
full article in Kalakaumudi weekly)
LIMA`s Children"s Day in Liverpool
 Liverpool
Malayali Association (LIMA) celebrated Children's Day 2008.
Around 125 children performed on different competitions and
Sharlet Jaison won the Kalathilakam pattam and Benetto Sebastian
won the Kalaprathibha pattam. Judges had difficulty to find
the winner. Each and every competitions were of high standard.
It was a unique event of Asian Malayali childrens celebration
of Chachagi day.(more)
"Gandhi – The Mahatma"
LIMCA Children's Fest 2008
Liverpool: To commemorate Kerala Piravi and Children's Day,
Liverpool Malayalee Cultural Association (LIMCA) is organising
Children's Festival with various competitions (more)
Minister Elamaram Kareem on drive to promote
UK investment in Kerala
 The
ministerial delegation led by Kerala Industries Minister Elamaram
Kareem left UK after a successful two day official visit.
The minister was coming from USA after the successful investment
meetings. He was accompanied by Industries Principal Secretary
T Balakrishnan IAS, Investment Promotion Secretary P.H. Kurien
IAS and Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation Managing
Director Manoj Joshi. - SJ Haris, Croydon reporting. (more)
Chief Justice KG Balakrishnan received the first
VK Krishna Menon award
 The
first VK Krishna Menon award was given to the Chief Justice
KG Balakrishnan at a function organised at the High Commission
of India in London. The award was introduced to honour public
figures who serve with integrity, conviction, courage and
principle. Chief Justice KG Balakrishnan is a shining example
of judiciary whose fearless fights against corruption is a
model for others. His legendary stand against oppression and
discrimination is a hard act to follow said Manek S Dalal
OBE the chairman of Krishna Menon foundation bestowing the
first Krishna Menon award on Chief Justice KG Balakrishnan.
(more)
 FFC
celebration in Hayward Heath West Sussex
Friends Family Club( F F C) celebrated Onam with traditional
Thiruvathira, variety programmes, and children`s dance in
Hywards Heath,West Sussex. (more
pics)
 LIMA
meets Treasury Minister Angela Eagelton
Liverpool MalayaleeExicutive Committee members visited Treasury
Minister Angela Eagelton to raise their concerns about the
recent changes brought in by the Home Office. The meeting
lasted an hour with members of LIMA executive. (more)
2nd Northern march against racism in Newcasle
25 October 2008
Tyneside Community Action for Refugees (TCAR) invites support
for its 2nd Northern march against racism on Saturday 25 October
2008. Assemble at 12 noon at the Old Fire Station on Westgate
Road, Newcastle, to march through the West End to the city
centre with a public meeting Grey's Monument from 1pm.
Artist Raja Ravi Varma at London Film
Festival
Santhosh Sivans film set in Kashmir
Nandita Das`s debut feature focuses
on Gujarat massacre of 2002
 The
story of the great Malayalee painter Artist Raja Ravi Varma
is at the silver screens of London Film Festival. "Colours
of Passion" (Rang Rasiya) by the renowned director Ketan
Meta looks at the intimate relationship Ravi Varma had with
the model Sugantha. The film also set a deep focus on blasphemy
charge brought on by the religious power brokers. (more)
"Celebration of music, literature,
theatre and humour"
Kavalam Sreekumar and Dr M V Pillai honoured
at KALA event
K ALA
-Kerala Arts and Literary Associations annual day is usually
inspiring and rejuvenating experience. Progressing from previous
years KALA has again made its footprint on the cultural calendar
of Malayalees in Britain. The young talents were competing
with adults for artistic quality. The star performer of the
event Kavalam Sreekumar had uplifted the attentive audience
to a new height through his classical and light music while
Dr MV Pillai`s humorous and intellectual talk was a joy to
listen to. Dr Sethumadhavans sweet voice gave a memorable
flavour to the concluding programme. MS (more)
Inauguration of Krishna Menon foundation
in London
Chief Justice
KG Balakrishnan to be honoured
Krishna Menon foundation is to be inaugurated in London on
1st November between 12 and 2pm at the High Commission of
India to uphold the philosophy and service of the great politician.
Chief guest and high commissioner of India Sivasankar Mukharjee
will inaugurate the foundation. It will be an apolitical organisation
aims to eradicate inequality and promote non alignment on
global level.
Chief Justice KG Balakrishnan will be honoured with the first
Krishna Menon award during the function. Supreme court judge
Arijit Pasayat will also be honoured at the function and Sobhana
Balachander – senior disciple of Dhananjayan will perform
Bharathanatyam. Manek S Dalal OBE will be the chairman of
Krishna Menon foundation. For further details contact the
secretary Krishnankutty Menon on 020 8632 1239.
Indian writer Aravind Adiga wins Britains prestigious
literary award
 This
year`s £50,000 Man Booker prize award for best novel
in English literature went to The White Tiger by the Madras
born, Oxford educated Indian writer Aravind Adiga. The White
Tiger takes a sharp and unblinking look at the reality of
India's economic miracle. Its antihero and narrator, Balram
Halwai, is a cocksure, uneducated young man, the son of an
impoverished rickshaw driver. By lying, betraying and using
his sharp intelligence, Balram makes his ascent into the heady
heights of Bangalore's big business. Indian writers Salman
Rusdie, Arundathi Roy and Kiran Desai are the former Man Booker
prize winners. (listen
to The Guardian audio interview of this year`s winning author
Aravind Adiga)
Eleanora Peter`s bha rathanatyam
Arangettam became a performance of the
sibling trio
The bharathanatyam arangettam of Eleanora Peter at Ilford
town hall in Essex became a visual and audio treat for the
houseful invited audience. It is a pleasant experience for
the solo dancer on debut performance to present her art to
the aesthetic satisfaction of the audience. Eleanora Peter
can be proud to achieve that goal on her arangettam. (more)
Juby Mathew: Pride of Britain and Pride
of Malayalees
 Juby
Mathew of Huddersfield near Manchester became the first Malayalee
to gain the prestigious Pride of Britain award. It is the
first time a Malayalee in Britain is winning this national
award for the heroes of Britain. From the milkman who serves
an isolated community like his own house to the great Beijing
Olympic award winners the heroes of Britain were paraded on
stage. Juby Mathew became the award winner and hero of Britain.
All coverage of the award was on ITV channel and on Daily
Mirror newspaper. (more)
 Aberdeen
Malayalee Association(Scotland) Onam on 27th Sept
Aberdeen Malayalee Association(Scotland) has celebrated ONAM
on Saturday, the 27th September 2008 at Harlaw Academy Hall.
It was well attended by around 350 people. Programme started
with welcome and introductory speech by Biju Krishnan, Secretary
and inauguration by lighting traditional lamp by K.J. Joseph,
President. (more)
Celebration to commemorate the sainthood of
Saint Alphonsa in East ham
The Syro Malabar Catholic Church of London is conducting
a special celebration to commemorate the sainthood of Saint
Alphonsa of Bharanaganam at St Michael's Church Eastham in
London on the 17th, 18th and 19th of October 2008. (more)
Liverpool Malayali Association(LIMA) celebrated
its 8th Ponnonam
 Liverpool
Malayalee Associations chief guests former Union Minister
and Ex Meghalaya Governor Dr. MM Jacob
and Ex Mayor Alderman Gerald Scott of Liverpool together inaugurated
Ponnonam 2008 Official evening by lighting the nilavilakku.
Cheif Guests were welcomed in a traditional way with maveli
and chendakottu, puli kali, thalapoli. (more)
BBC plans TV serial on Mahatma Gandhi
 The
British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) is planning to produce
a television serial on Mahatma Gandhi, with an Indian director
and cast.
'''The serial will consist of 26 parts of 30 minutes each.
It will be made in English and Hindi, with BBC telecasting
the English version,'' Devendra Khandelwal, a Mumbai-based
short film and documentary maker, who will direct the serial,
told UNI. A 60-year old theatre actor from Mumbai, identified
as 'Dr Sooraj', has been chosen to play the Mahatma, but the
search is still on for an actress to play the role of Kasturba,
he said. (more)
Kavalam Sreekumar`s music at KALA annual in
Watford
Kerala Arts and Literary Association`s (KALA) 12th annual
will be held at Parmiter's School Hall, North Watford, WD25
0UU with the highlight of Kavalam Sreekumars music on Saturday
18th October 2008. Dr. M.V. Pillai, the renowned Oncologist
and writer, and a remarkable orator from USA will be the chief
guest. (more)
MAUK- Onam Celebration
Vithu Pratap is a hit with the Crowd
 Over
1000 people attended Malayalee Association of the UK's (MAUK)
Onam Celebrations held on 20 Sep.
WalthamstowTown Hall in East London was the venue for this
spectacular event. The highlight of the event was the performance
of famous playback Singer Vithu Pratap. Youngsters from the
community also put in some sterling performances throughout
the show. (more)
Kerala As sociation
launch and Onam in Londonderry Northern Ireland
Kerala Association’s formal launch was started off on
an auspicious note by lighting the lamp accompanied by a prayer
song. The morning was a cultural extravaganza followed by
an action packed afternoon of sporting events. The day ended
with a round of tea and biscuits! Here is a snapshot of the
day’s activities. (more)
Ashfo rd
Malayalee Association celebrated Onam 2008.
Ashford Malayalee association celebrated Onam 2008 on Saturday
20TH September at Tower school Ashford in a grant style. Many
hundreds of men, women and children of Ashford Malayalee association
and their friends and families attended this celebration in
traditional Kerela dresses. (more)
“Keralappiravi” celebration with “Ente
Keralam” in London
Kairali Saamskarika Vedi- a new group, will celebrate “Keralappiravi”
in East Ham, London on Saturday Nov 1st. The programme titled
“ENTE KERALAM” aims to bring Keralam and Malayalam
closer to Malayalees in London. The programme will start at
5pm at Sree Narayana Guru Mission hall, 16 Barking Road, East
Ham, London E6.
The evening will include: recital of poems, Thiruvaathira,
tableau, Opana for children, fancy dress, audio visual presentation
of Kerala folk art forms, group songs and other art forms
which will bring the memories’ of Kerala to London stage.
All audience are expected to come to programme wearing traditional
Kerala dress. Very limited seats are available for the programme.
For further details contact: Sasi S Kulamada 07956 466 490,
Joy 07956 192 519 and Murali 07956 994 906
email sasikumada@yahoo.com
Maveli in Dublin
 Onam
celebrated in Dublin on avittam day 12th September 2008. This
was the first Onam in Dublin-12, Crumlin area (Lansdowne Gate).
In this part of the world our kids are not in a position to
get any access to this type of activities or festivals. Sibi
Jose program Co-ordinator tried to create the same Onam environment
of Kerala with its full meaning. (more)
£5200 from Newham councilcivic ambassador`s
charity fund to SNGM
Cllr Omana Gangadharan handed over the cheque
 Newham
council ex civic ambassador cllr Omana Gangadharan paid £5200
from last years civic ambassadors charity fund to Sree Narayana
Guru Mission (SNGM) during the Guru Jayanthy celebrations
at East Ham town hall. The charity fund was raised by cllr
Omana Gangadharan and her team during her term as civic ambassador
of Newham council, London for 2007-2008. SNGM womens wing
chair person Mrs Valsala Thankappan and other members of womens
group accepted the cheque from the Malayalee councillor.
LIMCA`s onakkali and Onam
celebration in Liverpool
Raji Mathew
Liverpool: The Liverpool Malayalee Cultural Association's
(LIMCA) Onam
celebrations concluded in a spectacular fashion on Saturday,
6th
September 2008. The Grand Finale was held at Broadgreen High
School,
Liverpool.
The day witnessed culmination of LIMCA's Onam
2008 celebrations that
kicked off in style, a week ago with the sports day. More
than 150
competitors participated in 32 events of games and athletics
that were
held at Childwall Sports centre, Liverpool on 30th August.
(more)
NMCA onam in Nottingham on Avittam day Sept
13
Nottingham Malayalee Cultural Association (NMCA) celebrate
onam on 13th Sept Avittam day with all family Onakkali and
cultural programmes at Trinity school, Beachdane Road, Aspley
, Nottingham, NG8 3EZ from 9am. Further details from Jaison
0115 9770 6079, Vijayakumar (President), Cyriac Joseph, Jain
Sebastian- secretary, Aby Ipe and Raju Pappu.
SNGM highlights the life and work of Asaan at
Gurujayanthy
 Sree
Narayana Guru Mission of the UK (SNGM) celebrate SreeNarayana
Guru's 154th Jayanthi on Sunday 14th September 2008 at the
Town Hall, East Ham, London E6. The highlights of the evening
will be the visualisation of Kumaran Asan's life with musical
rendition of Asaans poems titled “Sukra Nakshathram”.
 The
life portrayal of Asaan will include : childhood of Asaan,
meeting with Sree Narayana Guru, Dr Palpu, Manambur Govindanasaan,
Sahodaran Ayyappan, TK Madhavan and the love and marriage
of Asaan with Bhaanumathi Amma etc. Heart rendering sections
from Veenapoove, Chandalabhikshuki, Duravastha, and Karuna
and other famous favourite poems of Malayalees and other literati
are included in the musical rendering of Asaans poems. Script
and music of Sukra Nakshathram by Pranavam Madhu and direction
by Sasi S Kulamada.
The classical and light music sections of the programmes
are lead and accompanied by music director Albert Vijayan
and Manoj Siva on thabala. Variety of dance programmes are
also the attraction of the evening. The function will begin
at 3:30pm.
The public meeting guests will include Stephen Timms MP,
writer and academic Dr Mirza and Councillor Paul Sathinesan.
For further details contact Baiju Santhaseelan on 07803585907
or Manambur Suresh on 07737270119.
Biju Narayanan`s Ga namela
at KCWA in Croydon
Kerala Cultural and Welfare Association's 34th Onam Celebrations
will be held on Sunday, 14th September 2008 at Archbishop
Lanfranc School, Mitcham Road, Croydon, CR9 3AS from 4pm with
a variety of entertainments. Programme highlights include
Classical and Cinematic dance talent shows followed by Ganamela
by Biju Narayanan. For further details and onasadya on the
same day at 12 Noon contact: Ashok Kumar (secretary) 07974349318
Biju Narayanan and MM Jacob at LIMA onam in
Liverpool
Liverpool Malayali Association( LIMA) is celebrating its
8th Onam on 20 th September 2008 at Broadgreen High school
Liverpool.
Mayor of Liverpool will inaugurate the function. Chief Guest
will be Honarable Dr. MM Jacob Ex Govorner of Meghalaya /
Ex Home Affairs Minister Govt Of India. Famous Play back singer
Biju Narayanans will entertain the audience with music.
For further details call: Mathew Alexande,(President) LIMA
07904954471, 0151-2002177
Onam comes early to Southall: Sree
Narayana Guru Mission celebrated Onam and Guru Jayanthy in
Southall with sadya, dance and music.
SEEMA`s Badminton Champio nship
in Eastbourne
South East England malayalee Association ( SEEMA) have spread
its wings wider by conducting an All UK Malayalee Badminton
Championship on 03/08/08 at Hampden Park Sports Centre, in
Eastbourne. It was organised as a pre Onam game and to celebrate
the 4th anniversary of SEEMA. President Mr.manoj Babu met
the competitors and officially inaugurated the championship.
(more)
Family Conference of the St Gregorios Orthodox
Church London
The 20th family conference of the St Gregorios Orthodox church,
London was conducted from Aug 22-24 at the All Saints Pastoral
centre. The main theme for this year’s conference was
"Orthodoxy and Culture". Rev Fr Dr O Thomas (Orthodox
Theological Seminary Kottayam), Dr. David Frost, (Principal
Institute of Orthodox Christian Studies Cambridge), Dr Mangala
Frost (Director Institute of Orthodox Christian Studies),
Dr. Marcus Plusted (Vice Principal Institute of Orthodox Christian
Studies Cambridge), Rev. Fr Simon Smith and Mrs. Sheila Smith
from British Orthodox Church led classes for various age groups.
Over 130 people from London and other parishes attended the
conference. Managing committee under the leadership of Rev
Fr Abraham Thomas had made all the arrangements for the smooth
functioning of the conference.
Vithu Pratap to perform at MAUK’s Onam
Celebrations
 Famous
playback singer Vithu Pratap will be the star attraction at
Malayalee Association of the UK’s (MAUK) Onam Celebrations
2008 at Walthamstow Town Hall on Saturday 20 September 3.30pm.
Vithu Pratap, who will be supported by a live orchestra lead
by renowned musician Albert Vijayan, is set to make this year’s
Onam celebration a memorable one. (more)
LIMCA Onam with Athappookkalam competition,
arts events and Onakkali on two day events
True to the tradition and practice of Kerala LIMCA celebrates
Onam in Liverpool with Athappookkalam competition, Vadamvali,
Kabadi kali, cultural programme and Onasadya. The 2 day event
will see Onakkali with more than 30 different competitions
for men, women and children on Saturday, 30th August from
8:30am at Childwall Sports Centre, Five Ways, Queens Drive,
Liverpool, L15 6XZ. Admission to sports day will be free.
For details & registration please contact:Doye: 07859905776
/ Titus: 07940555845
Athappookkalam Competition with a total prize money of £250
and cultural programmes of dance , music and plays will be
on Saturday, 30th August from 8:30am at Childwall Sports Centre,
Five Ways, Queens Drive, Liverpool, L15 6XZ. Further admission
and other details call: Raji: 07889217641 / Thampi: 07737319705.
MAUK invites nominations for A level and GCSE
education awards
Malayalee Association of the UK (MAUK) invites nominations
from young people for outstanding achievements in their A
Level and GCSE examinations.
Nominations for MAUK's Education Awards 2008 are now open.
Parents/guardians wishing to put forward names of young people
for the awards must contact Nandini Dharmaseelan on 07986
117 471, after 6pm, or email on Nandini_seelan@hotmail.co.uk,
by 3 September with details of the subjects passed and the
marks/grades obtained. Nominations will be accepted once the
details have been verified. (more)
Families to get cholesterol tests
The UK is expected to endorse the screening of families for
an inherited cholesterol disorder which increases the risk
of heart disease. Final guidance due next week is tipped to
recommend that children of people with familial hypercholesterolaemia
(FH) should be tested by the age of 10. FH affects one in
500 people in the UK, or 110,000 people, yet only 20% of cases
are currently diagnosed reported BBC. (more)
The lies of Hiroshima live on, props in
the war crimes of the 20th century
The 1945 attack w as
murder on an epic scale. In its victims' names, we must not
allow a nuclear repeat in the Middle East says john Pilger
the world renowned journalist and broadcaster
When I first went to Hiroshima in 1967, the shadow on the
steps was still there. It was an almost perfect impression
of a human being at ease: legs splayed, back bent, one hand
by her side as she sat waiting for a bank to open. (more)
Delhi Blues plays cricket against London Malayalees
A leading professional touring cricket team from India, Delhi
Blues, will play a full UK Malayalee Cricket team on August
7, 2008 at the Muswell Hill Cricket Grounds, North London.
During their 10th year visit Delhi Blues will be playing for
the first time against a full UK Malayalee team. The UK Malayalee
cricket team comprises of players who have represented the
prominent Ranji Trohpy Cricket in India and various other
major tournaments in Indian and Kerala. These players are
either settled in the UK either as students or family. (more)
 Sarika
can wear religious bangle in school, high court rules
'Proud to be Welsh and a Sikh'
Sarika Watkins-Singh from Aberdare girls' school in
South Wales had been kept in isolation for 9 weeks for wearing
religious bangle in school. Mr Justice Stephen Silber concluded
the school was guilty of indirect discrimination under race
relations - Sikhs are a race - and equality laws reported
Guardian. (more)
 Mahatma
Gandhi's assassination denies him Nobel Peace Prize
Dhaka: Mahatma Gandhi's assassination in 1948 forced the
Nobel Prize Committee, who had "unanimously" decided
to confer him with the top honour after short-listing the
Indian leader for the five times, to abandon the plan.
"(Mahatma) Gandhi was short-listed for the Nobel Prize
five times," Norwegian Nobel Committee chief Ole Danbolt
Mjos has revealed. (more)
Sangeetha of the UK held  its
annual day celebration in Croydon
Sangeetha of the UK, an arts and cultural organisation based
in Croydon celebrated its annual day with enchanting music
and colourful dances at Lanfranc School, Mitcham Road, Croydon.
(more)
 UK
Knanaya (Jacobite) Community reception in Bristol
UK Knanaya (Jacobite) Community is arranging a reception
meeting on 27th of July 2008 at St Stephen's Knanaya Church,
St Anthony of Padua, Ellsworth Road, Henbury, Bristol BS10
7BE in honour of the Bishop Ayoob Mar Silvanios, the newly
consecrated auxiliary bishop of the Knanaya Church.
Cardiff-Kerala Cultur al
Association`s THILLANA 2008
Cardiff-Kerala Cultural Association conducted “THILLANA
2008” an all UK dance & music competition with great
pomp and splendour on Saturday, July 5th. The crowds were
entertained by talented singers, lively solo numbers and group
dances.
The event which started at mid-day saw a tense battle between
talented singers and dancers which was a feast for the audience.
(more)
Genetics talk by Malayali Doctor on Sabras
radio
 Dr
Pradeep C Vasudevan, a consultant from the Department of Clinical
Genetics at the University Hospitals of Leicester recently
gave a live talk in Sabras radio (a commercial radio station
in Leicester specialising in South Asian music and culture)
on what genetics is and how relevant genetics is in our everyday
life. It was very clearly explained the process by which an
Individual with known/suspected genetic condition or Family
history of known/suspected genetic condition are referred
to Clinical Genetics department and how genetic information
and risks empowers people. (more)
NHS is being
seriously wounded by privatisation
Commercialism, competition, patronage and fear are undermining
the health service in its 60th year, says Dr Kailash Chand
GP and BMA council member
National Health Service has been described as one of the
greatest social achievements of the 20th century with its
promise to care for the British people from cradle to grave.
Yet the very fabric, ethos and future of the NHS are in jeopardy
from relentless political assault. The government is implementing
plans the Conservatives would scarcely have dared to suggest.
(more)
MAUK Family Funday on 5th July in East Ham
Malayalee Association of the UK’s Annual Family Fun
Day will be held on Saturday  5
July at Plashet Park in East Ham – starting at 9.30am.
There are competitions and fun things for ALL age groups,
so why not come along and join in the fun. This year, every
age group will have three events and one of them will be a
fun event.
In order to promote more Youth involvement MAUK will be holding
a 5 a side football competition for Children aged between
8 to 16 years(note the teams will be selected on the day).
There will also be traditional events such as Urriaddi, Shot
putt and Tug-of war. The MAUK Womens’ Group will also
be raising funds for charitable causes in Kerala and UK.
For Family Fun day Details contact: Murali Pillai –
07956 994906, Nandini Dharmaseelan 07986 117471 . For further
details visit www.mauk.org
Director Lal jose at Keraladesam second annual
Keraladesam the leading free monthly news magazine celebrates
its 2nd annual event in Leicester on 29th June with whole
day of cultural programmes and the director Lal jose will
be the star guest. A total of £2800 prize money is waiting
for the winners of dance competitions in classic and cinematic
style. The event will begin at 10am at Leicester New College,
LE3 6DN. Competitions are in 4 different categories: 1) All
Uk competition 2) Classical dance- solo and group 3) Cinematic
dance- solo and group 4) Cinematic dance for under 14. Miss
Kerala UK beauty contest is also organised as part of the
celebration. For further details: Binumohan 0773 310 7747,
Manoj Kumar 0750 616 4421, Joshy Cyriac 0795 823 6786 Email:
info@keraladesam.com, keralolsavam@yahoo.com.
Wynad district gets exposure in Guardian
Kerala is now familiar to western readers. Here Guardian
newspaper is exploring the peace, tranquility and beauty of
Wynad. (more)
 Tv
psychiatrist Persaud suspended for three months
The psychiatrist and broadcaster Raj Persaud has been suspended
from practising medicine for three months by the General Medical
Council (GMC) after being found guilty of dishonestly plagiarising
the work of colleagues in a manner that brought his profession
into disrepute reported Independent. (more)
KCA-Cardiff orga nises
competitions for singing and dancing
KCA-Cardiff, invites talented DANCERS & SINGERS from
right across the United Kingdom for an all UK Competition,
on Saturday the 5th of July 2008 at Heath Social Club THILLAANA
2008 Auditorium, Heath Park, Cardiff, CF14 4XW. Time - 10.30
am To 6.30 pm
Those who are interested to participate, please register your
name as soon as possible through our email: cardiffkeralites@hotmail.com.
(more)
KCA`s Myanmar Cyclone C harity
Walk in Newham
Kerala Catholic Association of the UK women’s forum
has raised £240 from 5 mile charity walk in aid of Myanmar
cyclone victims. The event commenced at 11.30am with a brisk
walk down Barking Road, cutting through to Plaistow, followed
by green scenes at Stratford Park, and finally terminating
at Plashet Park. (more)
WMC Bristol &Wales –Annual Family meet
Malayalees l iving
in England's Southwest joined the World Malayalee Council
–Bristol &Wales Chapter organised Annual Family Meet
(AFM 2008)on 14 July Saturday at St Anne's Church Hall In
Bristol .
Meeting decided to strengthen WMC –Bristol &Wales
Chapter sponsored Campaign for Direct Flights from UK &EUROPE
to Kerala Airports. Meeting also decided to hold various programmes
to the help the orphanages and old age homes in kerala during
onam . (more)
Director Sarath requests documents on Krishna
Menon
Director Sarath is about to complete the pre shoot work on
the film on Krishna Menon – the fir st
and foremost Malayalee who shot onto the world political stage
sometimes like a storm. The stalwart of serious cinema Nazeerudheen
Shaw will act as Krishna Menon , Mohanlal and other stars
will appear in this docu-fiction film on Krishna Menon said
Sarath to Kaumudi Europe in a brief recent visit to London.
Direct Sarath has a special request to Kaumudi Europe readers
worldwide: “If you have any press cuttings on Krishna
Menon, documents and books please contact Kaumudi Europe at
sureshmsj@btinternet.com
. We need this urgently and will return the same to you.”
“Kunjan Nambiar” in Southall on 28th
June
After the successful staging of its 19th drama Kunjan Nambiar
in East Ham earlier this mo nth
,Malayalee Associaton of the UK’s drama wing Dhrisyakala
is staging the second show on Saturday , the 28th of June
at 5.30 pm at the Featherstone High School, 11-Montague Waye,
Southall ,Middlesex, UB2 5HF under the auspices of the West
London Malayalee Association of the UK (WLMAUK) . Drishyakala
has been in the forefront with their years of efforts to give
London Malayalees a theatrical language of their own. The
first staging of Kunjan Nambiar was well received by the Malayalee
theatre enthusiasts . Further staging of the play is also
being planned in Croydon and Bristol. (more)
A Sumptuous Feast of Words –  KALA’s
Literary Evening in Camberley
Geetha Menon
For more than six years KALA has been hosting a
literary event that has provided a forum to its members and
guests alike to share and discuss the delights of books that
they have come across. This year was no different. A sumptuous
feast of words was hosted and co-ordinated by Mr Natarajan
at KALA’s Literary event on Saturday 10th of May 2008
at the Heatherside Community Hall, Heatherside, Camberley. (more)
YouTube sensation is made into a documentary
in National Geographic channel
Buffallos reclaim their baby back from
lions!!!
The tourist group spotted a few lions and a herd of buffalo
near a watering hole Kruger National Park in South Africa,
but it wasn't long before the lions charged the herd, singling
out a buffalo calf, which they overwhelmed by the water's
edge.
What followed has become the stuff of internet legend and
will form the core of a dramatic wildlife documentary, Battle
at Kruger, which was screened by the National Geographic channel
in Britain on 18th May . (more)
An Indian first
Rev Fr. John Sankar athil
OSFS received Doctorate Degree [Ph. D] in Theology from the
famous University of Fribourg, Switzerland. He is the first
Indian who did research studies under the guidance of the
Chancellor of the University.
Ordained a priest1995, Fr. Sankarathil is a pioneer member
from Asia in the Congregation of the Oblates of Saint Francis
de Sales. He has obtained mastery in French, German and modern
Psychology and Counselling. He has also a graduate degree
in Philosophy form the Jnana Deepa Vidhyapeeth, Pune, India
and graduate and post-graduate degree in theology from the
St. Peter's Pontifical Institute, Bangalore. He is also author
of six books in theology and more than 50 scholarly articles
in English, French, German and Malayalam on various subjects
such as philosophy, psychology, theology, spirituality and
comparative religion.
 Einstein's
letter on religion sells for £170,000
A letter in which Albert Einstein branded religious beliefs
as "childish superstitions" and the "product
of human weaknesses" has been sold at auction in London
for £170,000 to a private collector, smashing the world
record for a letter by the great scientist reported Guardian
newspaper (more).
Nottingham Malayalee Cutural Association`s AGM on 24th
May
NMCA celebrates its Annual General Meeting , Vishu and Easter
on Saturady 24th May at New Venture Social Club, Technology
Drive, Veeston, NG9 1LB. The cultural programme will include
Manchester Symphony`s GANAMELA of more than ten artists.
Row over health risk to cousins who marry
A major medical row will erupt this month when scientists
and health experts hold two key meetings to discuss the controversial
subject of marriages between cousins and their impact on health
in Britain.
The debates will be held by the Royal Society of Medicine
as part of its 100 Years of Medical Genetics celebrations
on 23 May, and by the Progress Educational Trust at Clifford
Chance in east London on 29 May. Both will reveal deep divisions
among scientists reported Observer
Some researchers and politicians say inter-cousin unions,
which are highly prevalent among British Pakistanis, have
led to a striking rise in the incidence of rare recessive
disorders, many of them fatal, in areas such as Bradford.
The trend has led to calls for cousin marriages to be banned.
(more)
BNP wins first seat in London assembly
By Brian Brady
Even as London digested the arrival of its new Mayor yesterday,
it was also coming to terms with the election of the first
British National Party member of the London Assembly.
The leading mayoral candidates pointedly walked off the stage
when fifth-placed Richard Barnbrook made his speech following
the announcement of the City Hall results. But the leader
of the BNP group on Barking and Dagenham council was not to
be denied, as his party's share of the vote crept over the
5 per cent threshold which guaranteed him a seat in the assembly.
(more)
MAUK Annual General Meeting 2008
The
Malayalee Association of the UK’s 2008 Annual General
Meeting was held today the 11th of May at Kerala House, 671
Romford Road . In a press release MAUK stated: The meeting
re-elected the current Director Board to continue the excellent
work that the organization has been doing over the last few
years (more)
MAUK play
Kunjan Nambiars inroad into London Malayalees life
 Kunjan
Nambiar the great poet and performer makes inroad into London
Malayalee`s cultural life through the play of the same name
in East Ham London.
During Malayalee Association of the UK`s Drisyakala`s presentation
of the play many people were prompted to ask themselves and
others “how do we find out more about Kunjan Nambiar`s
life and work?” and “Where do we get Kunjan Nambiar`s
`thullalkadhakal`? .” In an earlier exclusive interview
with Kaumudi Europe online the director of the play in London
Sasi S Kulamada said: “When we choose a play the first
question comes to our mind is `what will be the benefit of
this play? ` . What is the net benefit of the audience? The
audience have to get a positive message from the play”.
(more)
Discover India – A festival of Indian
Dance, Music & Food in Liverpool
Liverpool: As Liverpool is celebrating the European Capital
of Culture
year in 2008, the Liverpool City Council has arranged several
events
to highlight the cultural diversity of Liverpool. In this
connection,
the Liverpool Malayalee Cultural Association (LIMCA) in partnership
with the City council, organised Discover India – A festival
of Indian
Dance, Music & Food on 26th April at the Broadgreen High
School,
Liverpool. (more)
Please take photos from: http://picasaweb.google.com/uklimca
 Curtain
raises to MAUK`s play “KUNCHAN NAMBIAR”
MAUK's theatre wing Drishyakala`s play “Kunchan Nambiar”
is on final stages of its production . The first performance
of the play Kunjan Nambiar will be at Plashet School, East
Ham, London E6 1DG on Saturday 3rd of May 2008 starting at
6-30pm.
“It will be an entertaining play depicting the life
of the peoples poet and performer Kunchan Nambiar. As a director
this is going to be my 4th play for Drishyakala . When we
choose a play the first question comes to our mind is `what
will be the benefit of this play? ` . What is the net benefit
of the audience? The audience have to get a positive message
from the play” said Sasi S Kulamada director of the play.
(more)
British media forum honours Asian Lite
A well-reputed professional media forum in Britain has honoured
Asian Lite, edited and published by Indian origin journalist
Anasudhin Azeez.
How-Do media network, one of the largest media forums in
England, selected Asian Lite as one among the eight best magazines
in the region during their annual award function held at Manchester
United Stadium at Old Trafford. Asian Lite was the only community
title selected for the award category from over 180 entries.
The 12 high-professional judges, including BBC's Gordon
Burns and Jim Hancock, finalised the candidates by analysing
their performance in 2007. The award committee considered
several factors including growth of the company, reversing
decline, job creation, financial performance, industry accolades,
innovation, staff development and leadership. (more)
Asian restaurant workers protest at new UK work
rules
Thousands of curry restaurant workers gathered in London
on 20th April to demand that the government relaxes new immigration
rules to avert a financial catastrophe caused by crippling
staff shortages in the £3.5bn industry.
Members of the Bangladeshi community, who were joined by
groups from Chinese, Indian, Pakistani and Turkish catering
businesses at the protest in Trafalgar Square, also complained
that a spate
of "heavy-handed" raids looking for illegal workers
at restaurants was damaging business - reported Guardian.
(more)
Why we should fear Italy's Northern League
By Liz Fekete
When a xenophobic party succeeds electorally in one European
country, it has a knock-on effect for all Europeans because
immigration, asylum and integration policies are shaped at
the EU level.
Those of us seeking just and humane race and immigration
policies in the UK should be fearful of the knock-on effects
of the Italian March 2008 general election, which secured
a decisive victory for Silvio Berlusconi's Party of Freedom
Alliance. Already, the anti-immigrant Northern League, which
more than doubled its share of the vote (8 per cent, leading
to forty-seven seats in the Chamber of Deputies and twenty-three
in the Senate) has upped the ante, calling for deportation
of foreigners and the formation of self-defence groups to
fight 'immigrant' crime -reported IRR news. (more)
AMA celebrates Easter and Vishu in Aberdeen
"Dance, Ganamela, Play , Ottamthullal and Sadhya"
Aberdeen Malayalee Association celebrated Easter and Vishu
on 6th April 2008 at Episcopal Church, Aberdeen. The programme
was inaugurated by Fr. Jacob Edakalathur. The turnout was
excellant. Around 250 - 300 people attended the programme.
There was variety of programmes: cinematic danaces by members
and their children, Ganamela by "Rhythm" Orchestra,
Aberdeen, Drama by Members, comedy, Ottamthullal etc.This
was followed by delicious Sadya - Kerala dinner. (more)
School of Bhagavad Gita in London
UK chapter of the School of Bhagavad Gita
is going to be inaugurated on Saturday 26 April 2008 at Nehru
Centre, London at 5.30 pm. The inauguration will be followed
by a discourse ‘Bhagavad Gita – The Art of Man Making’
by Swami Sandeep Chaitanya in Malayalam.
"School of Bhagavad Gita, Thiruvananthapuram, India
(www.sobg.org) is the nucleus of the Salagramam Ashram envisaged
and founded by Swami Sandeep Chaitanya. Swami Sandeep Chaitanya
is the spiritual head of Salagramam Ashram and is the Chairman
of The School of Bhagavad Gita Trust. The School of Bhagavad
Gita upholds and preserves the heritage of India in its truest
sense and propagates the universal spirit and values of the
Bhagavad Gita, as a hand book for all mankind. Swamiji’s
satsangs, jnana yagnams and discourses have found their way
to the hearts of millions both in India and abroad. Swamiji's
vision for the School of Bhagavad Gita is an international
foundation that stands rooted in the rich heritage of India,
promoting advanced research in the Gita and propagating its
non-sectarian principles"Dr. Ravi Sekhar, Director, School
of Bhagavad Gita (UK)
Venue: Nehru Centre (www.nehrucentre.org.uk)
Address: 8 South Audley Street, London W1K 1HF
Time: 5.30 pm – 8.30 pm
Underground: The closest tube stations to the Nehru centre
are Green Park , Bond Street , Marble Arch and Hyde Park Corner
stations. All stations are within 15 minutes walking distance.
Parking: Paid parking available next to Nehru Centre
Contact nos: Dr. Ravi Sekhar - 0771 245 3156, 01753 642993
(evenings), Mrs. Prabha Sekhar - 0771 012 4814
5 a Side Football Tournament on
5 May
Malayalee Association of the UK’s (MAUK) annual 5 a
side Football Competition will be held on Bank Holiday Monday
5 May at the Power League in Beckton. Power league Norwegian
Playing Fields,Jenkins Lane, Newham. IG11 0AD.
Kick off will be at 10.30am,type of competition: Five-A-Side
(7 players, 5 on pitch & 2 subs),Trophies for the winners
and runners up will be presented on the same day.
Contact: Devan Pillai (07931 741 902.) Email: jayadevan.pillai@btinternet.com
Greenwich Uni Boys holds MKC to
lift Five-A-Side football trophy in Kent
Balagopal
 MEDWAY
-- The first ever five-a-side football tournament organised
by the Malayalee communities living in Kent was a huge success.
The one day tournament, held at the Black Lion Leisure Centre
Indoor Stadium recently, saw seven teams participating with
hoards of supporters cheering their respective teams.
The tournament was for kids and adults. The tournament was
also a selection process for setting up a Kent Football Team
to participate in upcoming tournaments all over the UK.
The kids section had two teams and they played a Best of
Three match in which Arsenal Kids were beaten by Manchester
Kids and lifted the juniors UK Malayalee trophy. The Seniors
UK Malayalee trophy was clinched by Greenwich University Boys
who had to toil hard to beat the formidable Medway Kerala
Commuity. The Medway Keralite Community Football team gave
a good performance througout the tournament. Their Johnson
Pandary and Binoy Sebastian were adjudged the highest goal
scorer and the best goal scorer respectively. (more)
"KUNCHAN NAMBIAR" in London
 MAUK's
theatre wing Drishyakala will be performing their 19th production
- KUNJAN NAMBIAR in East Ham, London. The first performance
of the play Kunjan Nambiar will be at Plashet School, East
Ham, London E6 1DG on 3rd of May 2008 from 6.30pm till 9.30pm.
MAUK`s Drishyakala is in the forefront with their years of
efforts to give London Malayalees a theatrical language of
their own. Malayalee theatre enthusiasts are eagerly waiting
for the new experience from MAUK. (more)
Rajeev and Shain Win MAUK’s
Badminton Competition
 Rajeev
and Shain from Croydon beat Rajiv and Sunil also from Croydon
to win the Malayalee Association of the UK’s (MAUK) Competition.
The Boys Under 16 Competition was won by Reece and Simon.
The tournament was held at Wanstead Leisure Centre on Sunday
13th April and 48 players (24 teams) took part in both the
Men’s and Youth Doubles Competition. The Winners are
Runners up were given trophies. (more)
V.Madhusoodanan Nair at SRUTHI`s
3rd annual in Peterlee
The famous Malayalam poet Prof. V.Madhusoodanan Nair was
the chief guest at at SRUTHI`s third annual in Peterlee. Sruthi’s
President Dr.Nandakumar welcomed the guests and Dr.  Vijayakumar,
the secretary gave an introductory speech about the contributions
of Prof. Madhusoodanan Nair to Malayalam language and literature.
In his speech, Prof. Madhusoodanan Nair touched upon the ancient
roots of poetry and how poetry, music and humanity evolved.
By illustrating how the sound of a simple pulluva veena transforms
us still to a bygone era, he pointed to our vast and varied
cultural heritage that has transcend generations, embedded
in our genes. We have a very ancient and rich culture and
any effort to protect it and keep it alive for future generations
is to be encouraged. He praised SRUTHI’s efforts towards
this in the UK (more)
The European Pravasi Sangamam in
Germany from 6 to 8 June
A weekend seminar for all Malayalees in Europe is to be held
near in Köln in Germany from 6 to 8 June 2008. Cultural
and political figures from India will attend the function
in Bildungsstätte - Steinbachtalsperre, Kinderzentrum
im Erzbistum Köln, 53881 Euskirchen-Kirchheim, Talsperrenstraße
70 .
Programs will include discussions on Cultural intergration
and Pravasi investment. (more)
Asianet talent contest 2008 in
Ilford town hall
Baiju Santhaseelan
Asianet talent contest 2008 was held at Ilford town hall.
Talents from far and near within Europe including Vienna,
Aberdeen, Bristol, Leicester competed in the event. Chief
guests this time was renowned veteran actress KPAC Lalitha
and her son Sidharth. As ever Lalithamma was modest and soft
spoken with a sweet smile on her at most times. Sidharth was
stunned to see the big following he has in Europe. When Lalithamma
got on to the stage the audinced requested a song from her
and she willingly concurred with a song of "ellarum chollanu"
from the film "Neelakkuyil". (more)
MAUK celebrates success of
Rajeev Ouseph
To celebrate Malayalee Rajeeve Ouseph becoming the Number
1 English Badminton Player MAUK's Badminton Competition will
be a FREE event this year.
The event will be FREE for all participants and is sponsored
by Dolphin Independent Advisors (www.dolphinmortgage.co.uk).
The badminton competition will be held at Wanstead Leisure
Centre, Wanstead at 10am on April 13, 2008.
The
competition will be held for the following categories:
Girls & Boys (Ages 8 to 16)
Men's doubles and ladies doubles
To register
Contact Joy AN (07956 192519)
Email: keralahouse@Mauk.org or joya@sky.com
Participants must register by 6th April 2008
Play it again, Rock Against
Racism
Thirty years on, a new generation is being recruited to counter
growing threat from the far right BNP
Thirty years after it politicised a generation of activists,
Rock Against Racism is being restaged at its original venue
of Victoria Park, in east London, in what will be the biggest
anti-racism concert ever held in Britain.
When the Clash took the stage in 1978, joining forces with
the Tom Robinson Band and Steel Pulse, they ignited a movement
that was to propel protest gigs into the mainstream and lead
to campaigns such as Live Aid. (more)
Seven Indian states offer
families cash to stop abortion of girl fetuses
India has launched a dramatic initiative to stop the widespread
practice of poor families aborting female foetuses by offering
cash incentives for them to give birth to the girls and then
bring them up.
Families can expect to earn around £1,500 per girl under
a government scheme announced this week, reported Independent.
(more)
Asian
and Black women`s group
Southall
Black Sisters threatened by withdrawal of funds
Southall Black Sisters (SBS), a long-standing domestic
violence support group serving BME women, is facing possible
closure after having key funding withdrawn from the Conservative-run,
Ealing Council. Although SBS has received national and international
recognition for the support it has given Black and Asian women
in West London over the course of almost thirty years, the
council is withdrawing an annual allocation of £100,000
to SBS, based on the view that there is no need for specialist
services for BME women and that services to abused women in
the borough need to be streamlined reported IRR news. (more)
Homage
to P Bhaskaran and Neelakkuyil team
 The
arts and culture section of SNGM celebrated the film Neelakkuyil
and its master film makers of 1954. As a tribute to P Bhaskaran
who passed away one year ago in February 2007, Kaumudi Europe
is giving a comprehensive coverage of the evening. Here we
also include the enthusiastic and objective view points of
some of the people who attended the event titled- P Bhaskaran
Anusmaranam "Chalachithra, Kaavya, Sangeetha Sandhya",
at Sree Narayan Guru Mission centre at 16 Barking Rd, London
E6. (more)
SRUTHI`s third annual on
March 29 in County Durham
Film actor Murali`s extremely powerful solo play 'Lanka Lakshmi',
Ganamela by Albert Vijayan and Sethu Warrier, classical and
folk dances choreographed by Mayadevi Kurup will brighten
the evening at Sruthi`s third birthday celebrations in County
Durham from 4 pm on March 29.
The venue is East Durham Community College, Peterlee, County
Durham. Bharat Murali, the National award winning Malayalam
movie and stage actor and Chairman of Kerala Sangeetha Nataka
Academy will be the chief guest.
Murali will present his much-acclaimed solo version of the
famous drama 'Lanka Lakshmi' by the late C N Sreekantan Nair.
This will be a unique experience for theatre and drama lovers
and Sruthi has great pleasure in featuring Bharat Murali on
this programme. (more)
Brown's plans for 'earned
citizenship' come under fire
Brown plans to introduce an "earned citizenship"
system for migrants from outside the European Union who want
to become British.
Gordon Brown was accused yesterday of treating immigrants
as "second-class people" as he announced stricter
rules for foreigners who want to become British citizens.
The Home Office set out moves to introduce an "earned
citizenship" system for migrants from outside the European
Union who want to become British reported Indendent. (more)
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