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Hamara Bandhan help 100 cataract patients in
Karnataka
Hamara Bandhan e.V, a Germany based Non government organisation
is conducting an eye camp in Bidar district in Karnataka on
02nd June 2008. Hamara Bandhan e.V is a Non government organisation
constituted by some like minded Indo-German youths who are
interested to do social projects in India for the needy people.
Started in July 2005, Hamara Bandhan e.V has conducted 3 eye
camps so far in Karnataka. The projects of Hamara Bandhan
e.V involve helping out the financially week people for their
health and educational related problems.
The current project is for the cataract operation in Karnataka.
It will help 100 patients who are suffering from cataract
to get themselves checked up and then operated free of cost.
For this Eye camp which will be starting from June 2nd, the
Velemegna Hospital, Bidar will assist Hamara Bandhan e.V team
for doing the camp in their locality.
For more details about the organization and the oncoming eye
camp please visit
http://www.hamara-bandhan.org
For further information please contact Hamara Bandhan team.
You can send your queries at info@hamara-bandhan.de
-Prakash Narayanan, For Hamara Bandhan
Cultural Festival in Heidelberg
Kerala German Cultural forum is conducting a seminar and
cultural festival in St.albert Church in Heidelberg on June
14th 2008. The seminar is about “India and her great
achievements” which will be presented by Prof. Dr. Dieter
Kapp ( University of Bonn ), Rev.Dr. Joseph Pandiappallil,
and Dr.C.V.James ( Sukhodaya Ayurveda Group, Kerala ). KGCF
will honor some of the well known personalities in Europe
for their great achievements and contributions in the socio-cultural
field of Malayalees in Europe. They include Mr. Thomas Chakkiath
( Editor , Rasmi Magazine ), Jose Kumbiluvelil ( Journalist
) and Mr. Edward Nazareth ( Writer )
The cultural extravaganza will take place after the seminars
in which well known artists participate. KGCF would like to
invite all interested people for this great event especially
the Malayalam speaking community in and around Germany.
For further details please
contact
Varghese Kachappalli : 06371 3459, Prakash Narayanan : 0721
2495271,
George Kuttikkattu : 06202 25828
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)
K G George interview:
“ When I started film making I ha d
the notion that actors are the tool of the director and anybody
can be made into an actor. That all changed with my film Yavanika.
Gopi`s acting in Yavanika is so superb and on a par with any
best actor in the world”
......“Yes, I have made strong films with issues concerning
women. Women have their own opinions and personalities. ....There
are no strong women characters in the new Malayalam films”
K G George talks to Manambur Suresh in a stage interview.
(more
in Malayalam)
France confers Narayana Murthy
with its highest civilian award
France. N R Narayana Murthy was on Saturday(26.01.2008)
conferred with the Officer of the Legion of Honour, the highest
civilian distinction of the government of France. The French
honour for Narayana Murthy comes on a day when he was chosen
for Padma Vibhushan, the second highest civilian award of
the country. 
French minister of higher education and research Valerie
Pecresse bestowed the honour to the “most admired business
leader” of India at a glittering function here this evening.
Created in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte, the Legion of Honour
is the highest civilian distinction that can be conferred
in France regardless of the social status or the nationality
of the recipients.
Pecresse acknowledged the humble beginnings of Infosys, which
was co-founded by Narayana Murthy in 1981 along with six friends,
and $215 in the pocket. “Infosys, which employs over
82,000 staff, is a shining example of development in India,”
she said.
Accepting the distinction, Narayana Murthy said he was extremely
greateful to the government of France for honouring him.
Narayana Murthy, who pursued higher studies in France, said
it was a country he loves most after India.
-John Kochukandathi
New leadership for the Kerala
German Cultural Forum
e.v, Germany
Kerala German Cultural Forum elected its new office bearers
on 29th December 2007 at a function held at the St.Albert
church in Heidelberg. The duration of the new leadership will
be for the next 4 years.
Mr.Varghese Kachappilli has been elected as the president
of the forum for the second term whereas Mr. George Kuttikattu
and Mr. Prakash Narayanan were elected as the new general
secretaries. Mr. Reinhold Ubl and Mrs. Saramma Kannamthanam
were elected respectively for the posts of Vice president
and treasurer.
.Mr. Sajo Henry Thomas, Mr. Siby George Kuttikattu, Mrs.
Laila Njaraparambil,( Gross- Gerau), Mr. Baby Kalayamkari(Gross-Gerau),
Mr. Mathew Kuriakkose, Mrs. Theresa Ubl, and Mrs. Mary Chirpanath
were elected as the new executive members. Mr. Issacc Kannamthanam
was appointed as the advisory council member of the forum.
Election was conducted under the observation of Mr.Vinod Balakrishnan.
The meeting commenced with the prayer of Mr. Reinhold Ubl.
In his inaugural speech, President Mr. Varghese Kachappilli
, explained the previous four years functions of the forum
and pointed out the new challenges in the coming years. In
his speech he stressed the requirement of the forum members
for using the forum in a successful manner in the coming years.
In his working report, the general secretary Mr. George
Kuttikattu expressed his happiness in the forum functions
as a model for the other Malayalee associations in Germany.
The requirement of a further co-operation with the other organizations
was stressed in his report. It was pointed out that the forum
through it’s exemplary work had excelled in various sections
even in this challenging phase. Kerala German cultural forum
expressed its desire to work with a close relation with other
sister concerns of Malayalee associations in Germany.
Later Mrs. Saramma Kannamthanam presented the last 4 year’s
financial report.
Malayalee Deutsche association president Mr.Joseph Vellappallil
and Navodaya Indisher verein president Mr. Joseph Njarapparambil
conveyed their best wishes and offered their co-operation
to the newly elected members.
Delicious Kerala style food was served after the election.
The meeting was culminated by the vote of thanks of the forum
General secretary Mr. Prakash Narayanan
Rev. Fr. M D Varghese selected for the European
Bioethics Fellowship
Brussels (Belgium) Rev. Fr. M D Varghese Konniyoor, a priest
of the Indian Orthodox Church and a PhD scholar of University
o f
Melbourne (MCD), has been selected for the European Bioethics
Fellowship. The research fellowship will consist of bioethics
research to be conducted in different universities in Belgium,
Holland and Italy. He is one among the 20 researchers who
have been selected for this fellowship from the different
parts of the world.
Fr. Varghese is the son of D. Varghese (late) and Saramma
Varghese, Chittedathu Bless Cottage, Konni, Kerala and belongs
to the Konni St. George Orthodox Church. Dr. Smitha Varghese
(Scientist, CSIRO, Australia) is his wife and Adarsh Paul
Varghese is their only son. Fr. Varghese is an excellent orator
and writer in the theological and secular fields. He is a
member of American Bioethics Association, and the Europian
Bioethics Union. He has presented national and international
research papers. He has also obtained Australian Postgraduation
Award, Research Training Scholarship and Parkville Scholarship.
Now he is also organising and conducting service for Orthodox
students in universities.
- John Kochukandathil
Young Indian scientist chosen for German award
John Kochukandathil
 Wuerzburg
(Germany): Krishnaraj Rajalingam, a molecular biologist from
Tamil Nadu, has won a prestigious and highly competitive award
from the German Research Foundation.
The 30-year-old scientist, working at the University of Wuerzburg,
Germany, has been chosen for the 1.3 million Euros award,
it was officially stated on Sept 30.
The German Research Foundation selects outstanding young
scientists in all disciplines every year and supports them
to establish their independent research teams to rapidly qualify
for leading positions in science and research in Germany.
With this award, Rajalingam, born in Mayiladumthurai in Tamil
Nadu, can now establish a fully independent research team
anywhere in Germany for the next five years.
The major focus of his research is on understanding Programmed
Cell Death, a special form of cell death which plays a crucial
role in normal development and homeostasis of almost all multi-cellular
organisms. Defects in cell death can lead to dire consequences
ranging from cancer to neuro-degenerative disorders.
Rajalingam and his team investigate how cell death signalling
is orchestrated in normal and tumor cells and try to characterize
the role of several crucial genes which play a role during
programme cell death. Understanding the molecular machinery
of cell death in detail will enable the scientists to develop
rational drugs against various pathological conditions including
cancer.
Rajalingam studied Masters in Life Sciences from Bharathidasan
University in Thiruchirapalli in Tamil Nadu.
After his masters, he did his doctoral thesis in the well-known
Max Planck Institute for Infections Biology in Berlin, Germany.
Since 2006, Rajalingam is working as a junior group leader
at the University of Wuerzburg.
Cynthia Malarvadi: a Malayalee
for Swiss Parliament Election
Cynthia Malarvadi , a 20 year old young Malayalee woman is
standing for the Switzerland Parliament election which will
take place on October 21. She is municipal member of Green
Party at Solothourn Municipality. Her advocacy of environmental
protection, the cause of immigrants and also for natural energy
is widely recognized and well appreciated
(more)
Soorya Krishnamoorthy`s
‘Melvilaasam’:
A strong critique of the established order
 London:
Soorya British chapters staging of the play ‘Melvilaasam’
at London Camden centre was a strong critique of the established
order. Written and directed by Soorya Krishnamoorthy the play
targets the nerve centre of society’s evils.
‘Melvilaasam’ – a play loosely based on the
story of Swadesh Deepak exposes the caste system and emphasizes
the dreams of Mahathma Gandhi. No wonder the play was staged
at over 100 centres in India and abroad and continues its
triumphant journey. (more)
Interview with Soorya Krishnamoorthy
Soorya Krishnamoorthy talks about the plays that deserted
its audience and indulged in kapada budhi jeevi vyaayaamam.
“The playwrights of today should think about the success
of the old KPAC plays. We should bring back the audience.”
(more)
Tsunami Project
inauguration in Karunagappally
Minister NK Premachandran applauds British Malayalees
 “
This is the classic example of how virtue is still prevailing
in this world. British Malayalees who have no direct link
with this Karunagappally area have built this beautiful building
and going to provide continuous help with education of the
children. This is a great deed to be applauded and it says
we are one people” said NK Premachandran, minister of
Kerala after inaugurating the two storeyed school building
built by Malayalee Federation of the UK in Kuzhithura, Karunagappally
, Kollam.
 The
minister added that the unprecedented and enormous help of
this kind by pravasi organisations is an example for all.
Kerala government is proud to see this contribution. The engineer
and contractor of the building S.Ravikumar of Silpa Associates
of Varkala was also honoured by the minister NK Premachandran.
“ I have known Mr Ravikumar as a friend for many years
and I am happy that he is behind the construction of this
building. That will mean high quality work at the lowest possible
cost”. After receiving the momento from the minister
on behalf of Malayalee Federation of the UK, Ravikumar told
Kaumudi Europe that “ Due to the stringent rules of the
local authorities of the Tsunami hit area  we
had to build this at a loss but that is our heartfelt contribution
to the people of Kuzhithura. I am sure that no one will build
a school building of this kind for Rs 18 lakhs”.
Along with district and panchayat officials Malayalee Federation
of the UK representatives Asok Kumar and Mangalavadanan from
KCWA Croydon and Murali Nair of MAUK Eastham addressed the
inaugural event. A whole evening of art and music programme
was also provided after the inaugural ceremony.
Malayalee
elected as secretary of Switzerland Cricket Association
 Pradeep
Kumar Vijayadas a Malayalee is the secretary of the Switzerland
Cricket Association. The association is an affiliate member
of the International cricket council (ICC). He is the first
Indian to get elected as secretary of SCA. He has been playing
Swiss national cricket league for the past 7 years.
Pradeep an IT Professional working for the Swiss Financial
Services Group (SIS), is the son of P. Vijayadas former M.L.A
and K.P.C.C executive member. He is settled in Switzerland
since 2000, and he is from Venjaramoodu in Trivandrum.
 National
team
The Swiss national team played its first ever recorded friendly
international match against France in 1997.It has participated
in the ECC (European Cricket Council) Championships and has
played against the likes of France, Austria, Denmark, Croatia,
Sweden, Slovenia etc.
Ex-pats from England, Australia, India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan,
and West Indies form the majority of players, though recently
there has been a significant increase in the number of Swiss
nationals, trying their hand at cricket.
There are currently 24 clubs that are playing cricket, with
18 of them taking part in the Swiss National League and Knockout
tournament held every year. The clubs span the entire country,
ranging across its length and breadth, from Zurich to Geneva.
 Swiss
juniors
Youth Development Programme is a top item on the agenda as
involvement of Swiss youth is vital, for the growth and popularity
of the game. Switzerland's Youth development Officer was at
the home of cricket - Lords, to pick up his award as European
Volunteer of the Year, in the ICC Development Program.
The Swiss under 11s and 15s are working hard giving a promising
ray of hope for the future. The under 15 team was able to
defeat Zuoz in their first ever tournament in Tegernsee, Germany.
They were also able to put up smart performances against the
experienced sides of Germany and Austria. Formation of Swiss
girls and ladies team, is another interesting development.
Cricket on Ice
 Cricket
on Ice tournament held every year is a unique and rare breed
of cricketing attraction, perhaps, found nowhere else. It
is played on the frozen lake of St Moritz (minus 20 degrees)
with players wrapping up to keep them warm. Gloves worn by
outfielders and hiking boots to counter slippery underfoot
conditions are the conspicuous relaxations of normal rules.
Fame of the tournament spread even to England, as ex-England
Test stars Allan Lamb and David Gower came over to Switzerland
to take part.
Anithas "Imbakkattu"
from Germany
 A
young and beautiful teen star is moving to the horizon from
Germany. The album Imbakkattu which is now being shown on
popular TV channels features this seventh standard girl -Anitha
from Germany. Anitha is also enjoying good coverage from the
Malayalam print and internet media. The album Imbakkattu features
the popular singers Franco, Jyotsana, Vinod and Nimmi and
produced by Mahalakshmi Productions. She is also preparing
to act in Malayalam films without compromising her studies.
(More)
Kerala German
Cultural Forum celebrates
Golden jubilee of Kerala in Heidelberg
Kerala German cultural forum celebrated the 50 year anniversary
of the formation of Kerala state in St Alberts Hall in Heidelberg.
The colourful celebration was hosted by the active support
of the of the ``Navodaya Indishe Verein `` from Gross-Gerau.
The event became a land marking incident
in the history of Keralites in Germany.
The rich and colourful celebration started of at 2 pm on 4th
November and lasted till 10 o clock in the night. Malayalees
and Germans from various parts of Germany attended and rejoiced
in the event.
The afternoon program was started by a symposium on the topic
"Kerala and her 50 years". The socio-political problems
of Kerala, Kerala's problems and development plans in IT sector,
the scope and issues in the Kerala agriculture and industrial
sector, role models of 2 cities in the foreign countries for
the development of the state were the main topics during the
symposium. The lectures were presented by George Kuttikkatt,
Prakash Narayanan, Anto Paranikulangara, and Abraham Karammel
respectively. Thomas Chakkiath , Chief editor Resmi magazine
lead the symposium.
 Later
the cultural programs were inaugurated by Rev. Father Ludwig
Bopp, who is also the chairman of the Kerala German Cultural
forum. A traditional Kerala Lamp was lighted with 5 wicks,
notifying the glorious 50 years of Kerala formation. Before
the cultural programmes started, Siby Unnithan did an audio
visual presentation about the History of kerala since 1956.
The cultural program started of with the traditional dance
of Marggam Kali. The fantastic performance of an 8 year old
Jasmin , who depicted the life of a tribal girl, was the highlight
of the whole evening.
The traditional dance of Kaikottikkali from Layam group of
GrossGerau was able to trigger the nostalgic feeling of the
home state Kerala to the audience. This feeling was further
re-iterated with the BharathaNatyam and the MayooraNritham.
The celebration was greeted by various association leaders
in Germany. They include the German Television journalist
Dr. Thomas Vadakkekkara, Navodaya Indisher group president
Joseph Njaraparambil, and Mr.Joseph vellappallil.
 The
colourful and refreshing cultural programs continued till
night 10 O clock. This included the Thiruvathira dance from
the Women wing of KGCF, Gazal from Ustad Massar, Hip-Hop music
from Tobias Pulimootil, and a Malayalam song from Swanya Njaraparambil.
At the end of the program, there was a lucky dip lottery and
KGCF vice president Mr.Issac kannamthanam gave away the prizes
to the winners. KGCF president Mr. Varghese Kachappally and
General Secretary George kuttikkatt rendered the vote of thanks.
The program culminated with a delicious Kerala style meal.
New
EU-legislation for hand baggage at all airports in the European
Union
J.K Muvattupuzha (Kaumudi online Vienna
correspondent)
Effective November 6, 2006, new rules for the contents of
hand baggage will apply for all airline passengers throughout
the European Union (EU). Passengers may only carry small quantities
(max. 100 ml per container) of liquids, gels and aerosols
in their hand baggage. The packaging of these products must
also meet specific requirements. This applies for all passengers
departing from or catching connecting flights at airports
within the European Union.
The new rules apply for liquids such as water and other drinks,
but also extend to gels, pastes, lotions, and the contents
of aerosols. This includes toiletries such as toothpaste,
shaving cream, hair gel, lip gloss, facial creams, mascara
and liquid lip balms (More)
Frankfurt
Book Fair
The Frankfurt Book Fair is the world's largest trade fair
for books held annually in October in Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
Representatives from book publishing and multimedia companies
from all over the world come to the Frankfurt Book Fair in
order to negotiate international publishing rights and licensing
fees. The fair is organized by a subsidiary company of the
German Publishers and Booksellers Association and takes place
every October. This year , around 287,000 visitors from all
over the world came to view the collections shown by 7,225
exhibitors and 70 national and collective exhibitors from
101 countries, featuring more than 380,000 titles alongside
book-related products and services. The Frankfurt Book Fair
is a critical marketing event for the launching of books,
but it is also an important event to facilitate the negotiation
of the international sale of rights and licenses. Visitors
take the opportunity to obtain information about the publishing
market, to network, and to do business. Publishers, agents,
booksellers, librarians, academics, illustrators, service
providers, film producers, translators, printers, professional
and trade associations, institutions, artists, authors, antiquarians,
software and multimedia suppliers all take part in the events
and business climate of Frankfurt Book Fair
History
The Frankurt Book Fair has a tradition that spreads over more
than 500 years. Soon after Johannes Gutenberg had invented
printing in movable letters in the town of Mainz ,only a short
distance away from Frankfurt, the first book fair was held
by local booksellers. Until the end of the 17th century, it
was the most important book fair in Europe. Due to political
and cultural reasons, it was replaced by the Leipzig Book
Fair in the time of the enlightenment. After World War II,
the first book fair was held again in 1949 at the St. Paul's
Church.
India: Guest 2006
First country to make a second appearance (first was 1986,
the last time the Frankfurt Book Fair organized the annual
Guest appearance; since then the guest has contributed to
the cost). Caused by a growing Indian book industry and also
increasing numbers of German book-licenses to India. Furthermore,
lots of much work has come to India since the abolition of
a law that limited investments - mostly organization of science
publishing STM, which is growing Online. All science publishers
let work there. India provides worldwide third range of markets
for publications in English; 12.000 publishers; 90.000 new
publications annually in over 18 languages, sinking illiteracy.
The book fair started a new annual conference with other events
on analphabetism.
The National Book Trust India had sponsored this second guest
appearance and translations. Many authors had readings in
different Indian languages (there was also an exposition on
these). Yoga, for example as a part of health-policy, was
a too small part of the guest appearance to probably calm
down the football fever (in Germany over 500 books on football
new alone in spring before).
Peter Weidhaas, for a very long time (former) director of
the Frankfurt Bookfair, presented an anecdote on the first
beginning of collaboration between the Indian and German book
industries in one of the forums on a jubilee of the Book Trust:
Germany was still divided and the socialist stand on the Indian
Book fair had large geographical book, "the biggest of
the world". The press was covering only that. So the
west German government/diplomacy was astonished; their director
remembered that he always takes the world's smallest book
in his jacket pocket: a millimeter-bible from the Gutenberg-Museum.
So putting that out was attractive enough for the press. "The
book fair is show-business", he said at Frankfurt on
the occasion of the guests.
Three Blindmen describe the Elephant:
Anthology from Kerala
The  official
presentation of the book took place on the 6th of October
at the premises of the Book Fair in Fankfurt in the presence
of the two stalwarts among Malayalam writers: Paul Zacharia
and K. Satchidanandan. Most of the stories and poems in the
volume are direct translations from Malayalam into German.
A few are translated from English by translators who are closely
linked to Kerala, its language and culture. The translators
are Annakutty, Thomas Chakkiath, Christina Kamp, Bernd Kolossa
, Asok and Jos Punnamparambil . The anthology is the first
of its kind to appear in German from any of the South Indian
languages so far.
The book has 208 pages with translations of 16 short stories
(including Paul Zacharia's short novel "Praise the Lord")
and 9 poems, the title story being "Three Blindmen describe
the elephant" by E. Santhoshkumar. K. Satchidanandan,
the former general secretary of the Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi,
has written an introduction for the book. The volume is a
vintage of chosen works mostly by giants in their own genre
like M.T. Vasudevan Nair, Sethu, Kamla Das, O.N.V. Kurup,
Paul Zacharia, N.S. Madhavan, Ashita, Ayyappa Panickar, K.Satchidanandan
, Edward Nazareth etc. The new generation writers like E.
Santhoshkumar, Arshath Batheri, Anitha Thampi und T.P. Rajeevan
are also represented. The anthology is edited by Mrs Christina
Kamp (German translator, long-time Kerala fan and friend of
Malayalam language and culture) and Jose Punnamparambil (Indian
journalist from Kerala settled in Germany since 1966) and
has been published by Horlemann Verlag, a German publisher
specialised in books on South- and South-East Asia.
Althogh German missionaries like Hanxleden (Arnos Padri) and
Dr. Hermann Gundert have contributed substantially to strengthening
and developing Malayalam as a literary language, the great
works and authors of the Malayalam language remain an unknown
quantity for most of the German readers even today. "With
the present anthology, and with a volume of Satchidanandan's
poetry, big strides have been made to bring German readers
closer to the vibrancy and dynamism of current Malayalam literature,"
says Editor Jose Punnamparambil.
For those who are interested to read the
book
Contct www.amazon.com
Or
European Writers Forum and Frankfurt Kerala Samajam organized
a reception and a literary seminar for the writers from Kerala
who participated in the Fair like M.T. Vasudevan Nair, Paul
Zacharia , Sachidandan under the leadership of Edward Nazareth
and Jose Cholamkeri both well known NRI writers in Germany.
To see more photos, click below:
View
Frankfurt Book Fair 2006
New officials
for WMC Europe region elected
GERMANY -- New office bearers for the World Malayalee Council
Europe region was elected recently in Basel, Germany.
The new office bearers are:
Dr Joy Parampettu (Switzerland) Chairman
Mrs Lizy Chacko Malayil (Austria) vice-chairman
Dr Rajan Maymadom (Germany) vice-chairman
Mr John Kochukandathil (Germany) President
Mr Prakash Ramaswamy (UK) vice-president
Mr.Jose Edattel (Switzerland) vice-president
Mr Thomas Kannenkeril (Germany) Secretary
Mr George Cherian (Switzerland) Assistant Secretary
Mr Mathew Pazhenkottil (Switzerland) Treasurer
Councillors Mr Abraham Kalayanthanam (Switzerland), Mr Mathew
Adukanil (Germany), Mr Jolly Thadathil (Germany), Mr Manu
Chand (UK), Councilors from Provinces: Mr Mathew Joseph (Germany),
Regional Election Commissioner Mr Thomas Arambankudy.
Mahatma-Gandhi-University
and Ruprecht-Karls-University, Heidelberg inaugurated partnership
HEIDELBERG- 30.06.06: The inauguration of the p artnership
between the Mahatma-Gandhi-University Kottayam and the Ruprecht-Karls-University,
Heidelberg, has been conducted in the Main University Hall
in Heidelberg. The official ceremony was held by Manfred Hake,
the head of South Asia-Institute, University of Heidelberg.
Through this partnership, both universities have opened a
new chapter in the history of both institutions in a new dimension
of development and common academic interest. The aim of this
partnership is to facilitate the exchange of students and
faculty staff, to recognize the course work done and credit
points obtained by students at the host university, to pursue
joint teaching and research programs, and to organize for
these projects and related matters, a joint frame work for
raising resources both in India and Germany.
The Vice-Chancellor of the MGU, who could not attend this
ceremony, sent an official message to the attendant audience.
And this message has been read by the director of the Sout
Asian Institute. Many of the prominent members of Heidelberg
University, representatives from different social sectors,
students and members of the Indian community participated
the inauguration ceremony.
On behalf of the University of Ruprecht-Karls-University
Mr.Manfred Haake, Administrative Director of South-Asia Institut,Univ-Heidelberg
spoke on the occasion.
George Kuttikattu, General Secretary of the Kerala German
Cultural Forum, Heidelberg, represented the Malayalee community,
whose long lasting effort made this partnership realized.
- George Kuttikattu
Mahatma
Gandhi's bust unveiled in German Parliament
Lok Sabha Speaker Somnath Chatterjee unveiled a  bust
of Mahatma Gandhi at the Bundestag, the German Parliament.
"We, the Parliamentarians and the people of India, stand
honored by your gesture of placing the Mahatma on high pedestal
in your Parliament. In fact it is an honor for all the peace-loving
people across the world," Chatterjee told his German
counterpart Norbert Lammert during a brief ceremony at the
Bundestag.
The Speaker, who is leading an Indian Parliamentary delegation
here, thanked his German hosts for choosing him to unveil
the bust of the Father of the Nation.
The Lok Sabha Speaker also emphasized the need for international
efforts to wipe out terrorism.
Mukkaden wins
Akshaya Pusthakanidhi Award.
Edward Nazareth known as Mukkaden gets Akshaya pusthaka
nidhi award for pravasi writers. President Payipra Radhakrishnan
annouced it on Dec.28. 2005, in Kochi .The award winners selected
by the award committee consisting Dr. M. Leelavathi, Mr.Sreeman
Namboothiri and Mr.Payipra Radhakrishnan. Mukkaden is a regular
contributor of Kaumudi Europe from Germany.
This year's other awards went to K. Ravindranadh (Principal
Secretary to the prime minister for "Samagra Sambhavana")
Kaithapram Damoderan Namboodiri for musical therapy, Baby
Mathew for Ayurvedic tourism, Dr. Muhamadasheraf for his contribution
for childless couple, and Marunaden Keralasamajam the Domwilly
Keralasamajam of Mumbai . The award will be presented on the
Feb. 12 at the Thunjansmaraka auditorium in Bombay
Pray for those who
suffer, appeals Amma
B. Aravindakshan
MUNICH : Matha Amruthanandamai, popularly
known as “Amma” wants all to offer a silent prayer
for world peace and harmony she said in Munich, Germany where
she is on tour. Amma also asked every one to pray for the
thousands of people who died in the devastating earthquake
in Pakistan, India and Afghanistan and also for those who
lost their homes and hopes in the tsunami and in the hurricane
in the United States. Pray for the people who died in the
stampede in Iraq, for those who drowned in the floods in Mumbai
and South America, for the people who are dying in wars and
terrorist attacks, let us pray for their peace of mind and
also for their near and dear ones who will have to continue
living immersed in the painful memories of the departed souls.
Amma said, "The tragedies we are experiencing are not
finished. Nature continues to be angry and agitated. Only
the cool, gentle breeze of divine grace can lift the clouds
of anger, hatred and revenge. So, let us pray with melting
hearts."
Krefeld Kerala Samajam
welcomes Maveli and friend
Busy Mahabali could make it to Krefeld Kerala Samajam only
on October 2. The exiled ruler brought along Malayalam writer
Zachariah. They were accorded a warm welcome by the local
Malayalees.
Samajam President Joseph Mathew in his welcome speech introduced
Zachariah to the audience. Zachariah opened the function and
Jose Punnamparambil by lighting the "Nilavilakku".
Zachariah made a short speech wishing the audience all the
best.
A very well organised programme with dances, songs and instrumental
music were presented. The programme was rounded off with a
finger- licking-good Onasadhya. Vote of thanks was by Joy
Kumblivelil- Edward Nazareth.
Cologne
Onam by Kerala Samajam
At last after his busy global tour Mahabali came to visit
Cologne to see the German Malayalees on September 18.
On a sunny day, the local Malayalees were dressed in their
traditional mundu and kasavu sarees. Mahabali was pleasantly
surprised to see the large number of Malayalees to receive
him. The Onam celebration inaugurated by the well known Malayalee
writer Mr Sakaria and Mr. Greveling the German friend of Malayalees
who is in charge of foreigners in Cologne. It was a surprise
for Mahabali to see that a lot of Germans came to see him
and to celebrate Onam.
The interesting programme for Mahabali was the fancy dress
show of junior ITs. It was a pleasure for Mahabali to watch
the group dances of Kasturi Silanka Oli and the Dance Academy
of Cologne. The main event of the day was the book release
of Mr Sakaria`s ``Bhaskara Pattelerum and other stories``
which was translated by Mr. Jose Punnamparambil into German.
Mr Jose Kumblivelil and Miss. Joba Arikatt moderated the programme.
Mahabali and the guests were welcomed by Mr. Jose Puthussery
the president and the vote of thanks was presented by Mr Davis
Vadakkumchery the general secretary of the Cologne Kerala
Samajam.
A very tasty Onam Sadhya with Payasam was served, the Mahabali
and the guests gave a thumbs up and thanked the Cologne Kerala
Samajam.
-- Edward Nazareth
Maveli
in Stuttgart
STUTTGART: Mahabali was remembered
fondly by the German-Malayalees in Stuttgart. Onam Celebrations
of Mayalee German Association in Stuttgart started with grand
onasadya in St.Monica Haus, Stuttgart on 11th September 2004.
Mabahali was received with warm welcome in the back-gound
of panchavadya and Mr.J.S Mukul ,Consul General of India,
Munich inaugurated the ceremony by lighting the Nila vilakku
(Traditional Indian oil lamp) . In the inaugural speech, Mr.
Mr.J.S Mukul cited the Onam as the classical example of celebrating
brotherhood, across all the sections of the people, with out
any religion or poor-rich considerations.
After the ONAM SADYA, there was a feast of the cultural programs
with
classical, Cinematic, and Folk dances, Songs and instrumental
Musics.
The semi-classical cinematic dances from Fankfurt performed
by Reena, Ruby Mathew and Gina, Sonya Odathuprambil took the
audience to their tune.
Classical Dance from Tissy Vellappally and the Cinematic
Dances from Deepa Chirakkal and Saumya Thandiyekkal got big
claps. The Flut-Concert by Ajit Thomas and Songs from Smitha
were warmly received by the audience.
Presdient Mr.Joseph Vellappliil welcomed the Chief-guests
and gatheting and Secretary Vinod Balakrishna extended the
vote of thanks to the Chief-Guests, Artists and the gathering.
The celebration was fended with 'National anthem'.
The Onam celebrations had a double celebration this year
as it is combined with the General body meeting of the Malyalee
Deutsche Treffen Baden Württenberg e.V. During the General
body meeting a new executive Committee was elected as follows:
President: Joseph Vellappallil Vice-President: Vinod Balakrishna
Secretary: Hubert Gossmann Joint-Secretary: Faizal Mohammed
Organiser: Benny Kainikkara Treasurer: Paul Chirakkal
Committee: Jetsy Greis, Jainamma J.-Hoffmann, Otto Hoffmann,
Joseph Kainikkara, Varkey Kuttanickal
- Joseph Vellappallil
Onam
celebrations in Frankfurt
 Onam
Celebrations of Kerala Samajam Frankfurt started with ATHAPPPOOVIDAL
by Mrs.Jaya Narayana Swamy in HAUS NIDDA on 04th September.
The next item was an ONAM TABLO (AVATHRANAM) performed
by Frankfurt Malayam School students. After this, there was
a Boat Race (VALLAMAKALI) staged by Kairali Verein
Heidelberg.
The celeberation continued by Kerala Samjam Presdient Mr.Koshy
Mathew's welcome. He welcomed all Distigusied Guests, Audience,
Artists, Press and Kerala Samajam memebers to the Programme.
Mr.Ashok Kumar ,Consul General of India, Frankfurt lightened
the traditional Indian oil Lamp as a symbol of opening the
ceremony and made his opening speech. He praised the Malyalees,
especially those who are in Frankfurt , very active and tremendous
in all fields and all over the world.
After this Mr.Sahgal, Chief Executive Officer of State Bank
of India, Mr.Cyriac Mundackatharappel, President ISFV Franfurt,
Mr.Hermann Müller, Sales Manager Kuwait Airways, Frau
Nagel, Frankfurt Multicultural Office chief made felicitations.
The Programm continued with Classical, Volklore, Punjabi Dances
and Songs.
During the break, real Kerala Vegetarian ONAM SADYA was served
to everybody which is prepared by the leadership of Mr.K.K.Narayana
Swamy with the help of a bunch of people. The ONASADYA
had OLAN, THORAN, AVIYAL, SAMBAR, PAPPADAM, PULIINCHI etc.
with PAYASAM and three different types of UPPARI.
After the Break there was a ONE ACT PLAY (AKAKANGAM) namely
"NALKKAVALILE NATTUPURANAM" staged by Kairali
Verein, Heildeberg. This One Act Play was for about 1 Hour
and all enjoyed their super performance.
This Programme was attended by a large number of audience
including Germans, Sri Lankans, North Indians and Malayaless.
The whole ONAM Programm was moderated by Kumari Tanja Tonison,
Kumari Sandhya Wegner and Sajan Manamel. ONAM Programm conclueded
by 22.30.00 Hrs with the Vote of Thanks by Kerala Samajam
Secretary, Mr. Sajan Manamel. George John N.
New
Malayalam school year started
Malayalam School of Kerala Samajam Franfurt started
its new School Year 2004 with new 7 Kids in the lower level
class. According to Kerala tradition, kids started their classes
by writing "Harishri" in rice and lighting the Oil
Lamp. Malayalam School Parents Association President Gracy
Pallivathukkal welcomed the new kids, their parents and all
others to this auspicious occasion.
Senior Teacher Mathew Koottakkara did this traditional writing
in rice with the new kids. The teacher Michael Palakat will
be teaching these newly started kids in the lower level class.
The Parents of new kids and all other children in the school
and Parents were present on this occasion. Kerala Samjam President
George John lighted the Oil Lamp as the symbol of opening
the new School Year.
A new Hindi class is also started with our Teenagers and
the Senior Teacher Mathew Koottakkara will be teaching this
Hindi class. We want to teach our "Rastrabhasha"
to our teens and also more about our heritage and tradition.
This class was opened by Kerala Samajam Secretary Antony Thevarpadam
by writing some Hindi words in the Board.
New Parish Council for
Frankfurt
The present Parish Council of Frankfurt Syro-Malabar Church
has been dissolved after their one and a half years activities.
Representing the Parish members, Antony Thevarpadam expressed
thanks and appreciated their services for the community and
the Parish.
Afterwards the members of the Parish elected a new Parish
Council along with the Parish Council elections conducted
in the Catholic Diocese of Limburg. This election has been
conducted based on the rules of the Diocese with secret ballet
and 10 new members have been elected out of 15 candidates,
representing different categories in the community.
An election committee of 3 members including John Mathew,
Michael Illath and Mathew Koottakkara managed the whole election
procedures. Elected members are: Sr.Sylvia S.H. and Sr.Mary
S.A.B.S (representing nuns); Mary Karott and Rosamma Elanjimattam
(representing women); Julie Thevarpadam and Naveen Edathiruthikaran
(representing youth); Joy Sebastian Puthenparambil, Johnson
Kadakathlackal, Thomas Kannamkalam and George John Nedumthuruthymialil
(representing men).
The first meeting of the Parish Council has elected George
John Nedumthuruthymialil as President and Rosamma Elanjimattam
and Joy Sebastian Puthenparambil as Vice Presidents of the
Council. The new council has decided to celebrate Christmas
and New Year with Kerala tradition, Christmas Songs and grand
christmas dinner. Parish Vicar, Rev.Fr. Paul Devadas CMF opened
and led the first Parish Council meeting.
Keralappiravi Celebrataion
in Frankfurt
Malayalees in and around Frankfurt and members of Sports and
Familien Club Frankfurt celebrated "KERALAPPIRAVI"
on 01.November in Frankfurt Nordwest Zentrum.
The Programme was inaugurated by Sports and Familen club
President George Joseph and is continued with patriotic songs
and other cultural activities. There was a discussion session
also about the present political situation in Kerala.
Most of the participants suggested that the Politicians in
India should have a retirement age for a better rule, discipline
and also against vulnerable Politics in the State. The State
should practice a Politics which should attract investments
and business opportunities from all over the world with certain
control to protect the local industry and agricultural products.
After this, a Volleyball Tournament was conducted between
the OLIDES (first generation) and the TEENEES (second generation)
Senior and Junior Teams. This match showed a real fight in
Volleyball play and a very high sports spirit. The TEENEES
won the tournament after a 4 Hour fight with the OLDIES in
3 different matches.
The Rolling Trophy for this generation cup is presented by
Kerala Samajam President George John to the TEENES winner
team.
OLIDES team members: George Joseph, Mathew Koottakkara, John
Mathew, Sunny Kannamkulam, K.U.Thomas, Xavier Pallivathukkal,
Antony Thevarpadam and TEENEESS Senior team members Jury Thacherril,
Trejoy Puthenparambil and Junior team members Sanju Chackochan,
Alphin Mampilly were the organizers of this match along with
the KERALAPPIRAVI celebrations.
Contemporary Kutiyattam
receives raves in Germany
Kalidasa's Shakuntala has been presented in the Kutiyattam
for the first time at the House of World Cultures in Berlin,
Germany. The Performance under the direction of Sri. Gopal
Venu has been part of the body. city exhibition of Indian
Contemporary Art at the House of World Cultures.
Sri. Gopal Venu is the Performer and Director of Kutiyattam
troupe of
Natanakairali in Kerala. Born in 1945, Sri. Venu received
his training in Kutiyattam from gurus Ammannur Madhava Chakyar
and Ammannur Paremesware Chakyar.
He is well known for his contribution to performing arts
of Kerala in India as a person responsible for the rejuvenation
of several rare traditional art forms and as a research scholar.
Kutiyattam is gaining world recognition after the UNESCO,
The United Nations Cultural Wing has declared Kutiyattam as
a "Masterpiece of the Oral and intangible heritage of
humanity". Kutiyattam is the oldest surviving classical
Sanskrit theatre of India. In its highly stylised and expressive
theatrical language, neta abhinaya (eye expression) and hasta
abhinaya (the language of gestures) are prominent. The focus
is on the thoughts and feelings of the main character. Going
beyond words, complex psychological processes and impulses
are expressed through a language of mime that transcends verbal
limits.
Kutiyattam is traditionally performed by the Chakyar and
Nangiar communities in temple theatres. Actors undergo ten
to fifteen years of rigorous training to become fully-fledged
performers with sophisticated breath control and subtle muscle
shifts of the face and body.
The House of World Cultures is a leading centre for the contemporary
arts and a venue for projects breaking through artistic boundaries.
It has set itself the task of presenting cultures from outside
Europe through their fine arts, theatre, music, literature,
film and the media and engaging them in a public discourse
with European cultures: The House of World Culture's programme
focuses on the contemporary arts and current developments
in the cultures of Africa, Asia and Latin America as well
as on the artistic and cultural consequences of globalisation.
It gives priority to projects that explore the possibilities
of both intercultural co-operation and its presentation.
REN MARTIN ABRAHAM
Onam
celebrations in Frankfurt
Onam celebrations of Kerala Samajam Frankfurt started with
Athapppoovidal by Jaya Narayana Swamy in Haus Nidda on September
13. It continued with a prayer song by Cyriac Cherukadu. Afterwards
Kerala Samajam president George John Nedumthuruthymialil welcomed
the distinguished guests, audience, artists, press and Kerala
Samajam members to the program.
Then Sebastian Edathy, German Parliament Member and Ramaratnam,
consul from the Indian Consulate lightened the traditional
oil lamp as a symbol of opening the ceremony.
Ashok Kumar, Consul General of India in Frankfurt made his
opening speech and he told that the Keralites all over the
world, especially in Frankfurt are very active and tremendous
in all fields. He continued, as a 100% literacy rate state
of India, you can see Malayalees all over the world in all
fields and positions. This was his first program in Frankfurt
after he took charge as the Consul General of India in Frankfurt
for a week ago.
In his speech, Sebastian Edathy, German Parliament member,
said he is very proud to be an NRI in German Parliament. He
is the president of Indo-German Parliamentary Committee and
this committee is regularly meeting and flourishing the Indo-German
relationship. Also he praised the enthusiasm and unity of
the Malyalees in Frankfurt.
Also Sahgal, Chief Executive Officer of State Bank of India,
George Joseph, president ISFV Franfurt, Hermann Müller,
sales manager Kuwait Airways made felicitations. The program
continued with classical, folklore and cinematic dances, songs
etc.
During the break, Onasadhya (Onam dinner) was served to everybody
prepared under the guidance of K K Narayana Swamy and a group
of 15 others. The Onasadya had olan, thoran, aviyal, sambar,
pappadam, puliinchi etc. with payasam and three different
types of upperi. After dinner, there was a ganamela with an
instrument group of 10 people and the leadership of Cyriac
Cherukadu and Jose Thinamparambil for about 2 hours and all
enjoyed their wonderful Malayalam, English, Hindi and German
songs.
This program was a great success with an audience number
of 600 people including Germans, Sri Lankans and Malayaless.
Onam programmes ended by 23.00 hrs with vote of thanks by
Kerala Samajam secretary, Antony Thevarpadam.
Independence Day celebration
Indian Consulate, Indian Community in and around Frankfurt
and friends of India celebrated India's 57th Independence
Day in Indian Consulate premises. The Acting Consul General
Mr.A.K.Dhasmana hosted the Flag and read the President's message.
Afterwards National Anthem and the pledge to provide wisdom,
knowledge, physical resoruces and ability to work hard to
succeed in our missions were done. All India Based Mission
Heads like Chief Executive Officer, State Bank of India, Manager,
Air India, Regional Director, Govt. of India Tourist Office
and all Presidents of Indian Associations like Bharat Verein,
Kerala Verein, Bangali Association, Punjabi Association, Goan
Association, Banglore Association, Gujrati Association and
VHP participated this celebration.
The celebration continued with an Indian snack and get together
of about 1 hour.
Summer party in Frankfurt
Kerala Samajam and sports & family club Frankfurt celebrated
its summer party in Heinrich Kraft Park, Frankfurt-Fechenheim.
This event being organised in Frankfurt for the twentieth
year and is an event for the whole Malayalee community in
and around Frankfurt for a cheerful day before the summer
vacation.
This year's summer party started at 10.00 hrs with grilled
meat, hotdogs, fish and vegetables. After the grill and lunch,
competitions were conducted in following items: tug of war,
cards play (56) and race for men, ladies and youngsters (2nd
generation) section.
The winners of tug of war in different section are: ladies
section lead by Manka Thomas, adults section team lead by
Abi Mankulam and youngsters team lead by Geena Odathuparambil.
Cards play winner is the team with George Joseph, Sunny Kannamkulam
and Micheel Illath. All winners received different prizes
given by the sports and family club.
The celebration ended by 20.30 hrs. And Kerala Samjam executive
committee and sports & family club committee lead by Aleykutty
Conjeevaram, Antony Thevarpadam, Koshy Mathew, Jose Thinamparambil,
John Mathew, Simon Kaippallimannil, George John, George Joseph,
Michael Illath and Andrew Odathuparambil organised this summer
party.
Mathew Koottakara, Jose Kuriap, K.U.Thomas and Cyria Mundackatharappel
also helped in the organization and grill.
St.Thomas day celebration
in Frankfurt
Kerala Christians in and round Frankfurt grandly celebrated
St.Thomas Day in St.Antonois Catholic Church Frankfurt, Rodelheim.
This is the Patron's day of Indian Christians and especially
the most important Feast Day for Thomas Christians in Kerala.
The celebration started with a Procession and continued with
Holy Mass accompanied by the Choir lead by Sr.Elsa, Sr.Teena,
Sr.Merlin of Adoration Congregation and Jose Thinamparambil,
Antony Thevarpadam, Antony and Mary Edathiruhthikaran, Gracy
Pallivathukal and Jency and Michael Palakkat.
There were 6 Priests and 200 people participated in this
celebration. The Parish Priest Rev.Fr.Paul Devadas preached
during the Mass. The Mass was celebrated in the old oriental
tradition like in Kerala by lighting the lamp, Aarathy etc.
The Feast ended with coffee and different cuisines of Kerala.
Kerala Community in Germany
During 1960's Germany had a severe scarcity of employees in
Health and Nursing field. At this time German Hospitals recruited
nurses and nursing students from Kerala by the help of Christian
Church. This was the first generation of Kerala Community
in Germany.
Later this people brought some of their relatives and friends
to Germany again in the same health field. In between there
were some other students also came to Germany through Rome
or other places by means of some other help. Mainly the people
who came in health field were girls and they went back to
Kerala and get married.
The second flow to Germany was the husbands who get married
by this girl who were already here. Some of this husband's
got jobs in different fields based on their qualification
and job experience. Others went for higher studies and got
better jobs like Doctors and Engineers.
The next generation is the children of this Malayalees who
are here, born and brought up in this country. Generally this
generation has a better school and college facilities and
are getting better jobs like any other Germans.
There is another community of Malayalees are also here and
they are Christian Nuns who came from different congregations
from Kerala. Like the first generation, most of them are working
in hospitals and Old Age Homes as Nurses. They are doing a
great and wonderful job in this field and helping the poor
and aged people. Out of the total Malayalee population of
about 17 to18 thousand in Germany, this nun comes about 2500.
Some of these nuns are also in this country for more than
35 years and many of them celebrated their Jubilee.
During these day's Sr.Anila Jose belongs to the Sacred Heart
Community in Geisenheim also celebrated her 25 Year's Jubilee.
She is working in St. Marienheim for the last 20 years and
is known to the whole residents of this small town for her
always smiling face, readiness to help anybody at any time.
Two other nuns belongs to Sacred Heart Congregation also celebrated
their 25 year's Jubilee and all congratulated them during
this occasion and honoured them for their immeasurable job.
Beside this Nuns there are many Christian Priests are also
living and working here in different places and they are also
scattered in many areas.
Other Malayalees are those who came in Germany to work in
IT field with Green Card and with some contracts, they are
scattered in all places. Most of the Malayalee Community in
Germany are living in Cologne and its surroundings in North
Rhein Westfalia State. Following Cologne, Frankfurt, Hamburg,
Berlin, Munich, Stuttgart, Heidelberg, Wiesbaden, Mainz are
the main places of Malayalee Community.
German Malayalee Conference
A four day long conference of German Malayalee
familees was held in Undermatchtal , Ulm in Blackforeste in
Germany organised by Malayalee German Association.
Families and their German friends from different parts of
Germany and Europe attended the event which was inaugurated
by the city mayor Mr Zieg Ler by lighting the traditional
lamp.
Foreign secretary of Rottenburgh cathedral Monsignor Yurgan
Adam, Fr Thomas Palakkal, Fr Xavior Nochuveettil, Fr Davise
Ckakkalamattathu, and Sri Isac Jeoseph of Indian counsel had
addressed the conference and journalist Sri Jose Punnambarambil
moderated the discussions.
Cultural
evening in Frankfurt
Kerala Samajam Frankfurt is conducting a cultural evening
on June 8, 2003 at 17.00 hrs in St Bernhard Parish Hall, Eiserne
Hand 2 -4, 60318 Frankfurt. This colourful evening will have
selected Indian classical and cinematic dances and the famous
Malayalam drama "Almayudham" written by C L Jose.
This drama explains the real life of a normal Indian family
narrating a father's problems, struggle for surviving, financial
problems etc. Thomas Kalleppally directs this drama and those
acting are Alice Odathuparampil, Jency Palakkat, Antony Thevarpadam,
Antony Edathiruthikaran, Josekumar Cholemkery, John Mathew,
Andrews Odathuparampil and Xavier Pallivathukkal.
The background music and additional support by Gracy Pallivathukkal,
Elizabeth John, Andrews Odathuparampil and Joy Sebstain. Kerala
Samjam president George John Nedumthuruthymialil opens the
ticket sales of this cultural evening by giving the first
ticket to Dr George Arickan from Kuerbel Stiftung in Bensheim.
The earnings of this cultural evening will be donated to a
poor and sick person in Kerala who need urgent help for his
Kidney operation to survive his life. His wife is unemployed
and children are small.
All are cordially invited to this cultural and charity event.
The ticket costs only € 5,- including cultural events and
food. For more details and tickets please ring: Tel: 069/
95 77 53 28; 069/42 25 20 ; 069/ 85 70 43 68.
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