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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
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.
Independence Day Celebrations 2007 in
Vienna
The 60th Independence Day of India will be celebrated in
Vienna on August 15 with Ambassador Dr.Sheel Kant Sharma hoisting
the Indian flag at the Embassy residence at Spitzergasse 2,
1180 Vienna at 9.00 hours. Following the flag hoisting, the
national anthem will be sung and Ambassador Sharma will read
out the President's address to the nation on the eve of the
Independence Day. Eminent artists from India are expected
to give a scintillating performance of patriotic songs and
many other items.
A social gathering will also be organised at the embassy
residence with officers of the embassy and their families,
senior journalists, Indian professionals, community leaders,
scholars and friends of India, prominent members of Austrian
Industry, representative different Indian organizations like
Vienna Malayalee Association, Hindu Mandir, World Malayalee
Council, Kerala Samajam , Kerala Cultural Society. India's
rapid growth in technical field and remarkable GDP growth
draws world attention and hence Independence Day celebrations
all over the world draw special attention this time.
Indian Catholic
community celebrate St.Thomas day, readies for its Jubilee
Celebrations
 Vienna--
July 8 turned out to be a joyous occasion for Austrian Malayalee
Catholics as they held the Solemn Liturgy at 11:30 hrs followed
by Litany in Maria Lourdes Church, Meidling, Tivoligasse 20,1220
Vienna to mark the St Thomas Day celebrations.
The Holy Mass in Malayalam was led by Rev.Dr.Thomas Thandappally,
Chaplain of Indian Catholic Community in the august presence
of Rev.Fr.Thomas Vadathumukalel,Rev.Fr.Thomas Kochuchira,
Rev.Fr.Davis Kalapurackel,Rev.Fr.Sunny Marathampilly, and
Rev. Fr.Johnson Vettoonickal. In his sermon on the occasion,
Rev.Thomas Vadathumukalel pointed out that all Christians
need the courage and firmness of Apostle Thomas
He also appealed to the gathering to stay close to the community,
work cohesively and support each other. The choir was conducted
by Ms.Murphy Mukkattukunnel and team
 The
ICC Community, which started working in Austria in 1974
and was officially constituted in 1982 as one of the foreign
language Catholic communities in the Archdiocese of Vienna,
consists of all Malayalees belonging to the three Rites of
the Syro Malabar, Syro Malankara and Latin Churches in Kerala.
2007 is Jubilee year for the Community. Through spiritual
renewal the community is celebrating the jubilee with a one-year
programme which started in October 2006 and ends on October
13 and 14. More about its activities from its web site www.iccvienna.org.
The Indian Catholic Community launcded a Silver Jubilee Logo
on the Christmas Day in 2006. The Jubilee year logo draws
its inspiration from the 25-year history of Indian Catholic
Community.
Austria, very early to bed
The famous "first time" for Austrians occurs 17.3
years of age, according to a study. In matters of sex ,the
Austrian youth are world champions. A survey by a condom maker
claims nowhere in the world do youth have first time sex as
early as in Austria.
In sexual matters according to the "Durex globally Survey
2007" (Durex the condom maker) the Austrian girls are
two years over the worldwide average.
The average age, at which Austrians have sex for first time,
is 17.3 years and that gives them a global first, hotly followed
by Brazil (17.4) and Germany (17.6). The "late doers"
are Malaysia (23), India (22.9) and Singapore (22,8). The
international average for the age of sexual initiation, according
to the study, is 19.25. The study maintains that early education
on sex helps the participants to take preventive measures
to avoid pregnancy and venereal diseases. Austrian youth plan
well: 62.7% planned its "first time". Those who
had things explained to them either by parents or friends
enjoy sex better and retain good memories of their first time.
Only 15.3% feared venereal diseases at their first time or
were scared about getting pregnant. Prevention was taken seriously
by 77.2% Austrians before their first sexual experience. Basically
women are more careful about preventive the "first time"
-- and on the average have their first time seven months earlier
than men.
Usually youth from rural areas get into the act earlier than
the city folk. Also sexual education is less in the countryside.
Youth with higher level of education take always time to have
sex for the first time. The study shows that by keeping time
they feel themselves better prepared for sex and also they
maintain better memories about first time sex. The head of
the sexual Ambulance of Wilhelmin Hospital in Vienna, ELia
Bragagna said that girls are 7 months ahead of the youth in
the matter of first time sex.”
It is not the partners who always exert pressure. Friends
play an important role. In the new Durex study, 27.5% of the
females questioned named this pressure as a trigger for first
time sex. Women regret it more often than men: 42% of the
girls have negative memories and with men it’s only 32%.
The "Durex Global Survey 2007” had more than 26,000
participants from 26 countries.
Indian clubs put on a great
show at volley tourney organised by Global Malayalee Council
and Indian Sports Club Vienna
An international volleyball tournament was organised by Global
Malayalee Council in cooperation with Indian Sports Club Vienna
on June 9 at Paho Round Hall, Paho Round Hall, Jura-Soyfer-Gasse
3, 1100 Vienna.
Six men's teams from different countries -- Road Runners,
I.S.C Blue, I.S.C White, Sauerbrunn Sixers,Khmer Boys, Login
-- and four women's team took part.
The 6 men's teams were divided into 2 Groups of 3. Indian
Sports Club Vienna Blue (ISC Vienna) was led by Binu Thomas
Karekattel (Captain) and ISC White by Linto Palakudyil, with
Tiby Puthoor as manager and Tomychen Velanguparakal and president.
ISC Vienna teams have been great ambassadors for India participating
and doing well in many tournaments. ISC has been promoting
the sport among the youth too.
ISC Blue took on favourites ISC White and in a thriller Blue
prevailed. The final between ISC Blue and Road Runners was
a ding dong battle with luck just favouring star-studded Runners.
ISC Vienna White took the fourth spot after a spectacular
performance against Sauer Brunners and turned out very good
fourth.
ISC star Malcom Valakuzhyil was selected as best smasher
and Charley of Road Runners was selected best player of the
tournament.
ISC Vienna's newly formed women's team notched up a good
performance in their first ever tournament outing to grab
the second spot.
Global Malayalee Council Austrian Province President Mr.Denny
Joseph Kunnekaden welcomed the audience and I.S.C President
Mr.Tomychen Velanguparackel inaugurated the Tournament. At
the end of the tournament Dr.Jose Kizhakkekara gave away the
prizes and Global Malayalee Council Austrian Province Secretary
Mr.Binu Kolencherry thanked the organizers, supporters and
audience.
Global Malayalee Council, the largest organization of Resident
and non-resident Keralites, strive for the comprehensive socio-economic
development of India especially Kerala in social welfare,
cultural exchange, health awareness, business enhancement,
educational development fields. DREAM: Bridge the distance
between resident and non-resident-Indians to form a neutral
pressure group in paving the shortcut to a fully developed
India, counted among the Developed Nations. Implant the seeds
for a novel business revolution in India by the cooperation
and meaningful dialogue between resident and non-resident
Indians. The fourth convention with the name "Global
Meet 2007" will be organized at Singapore from August
3 till August 12. More about it from its web site: www.globalmalayalee.com.
More about ISC Vienna from its web site www.iscvienna.tk
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)
Malayalee family honoured for
enviornmental protection
The Christian churches in Vienna have initiated the promotion
of environmental protection. The Pezumkattil Family - Joseph,
Sophy, Lekha, William and Linet - took the matter seriously
and spent last Lenten Season without the car, travelling through
Vienna using public transport facilities. They won the first
prize granted by the churches for the luckiest among those
who took this sacrifice upon themselves. They can soon enjoy
a free trip to Berlin.
The Pezumkattil Family was given the prize by Mag.Eva Buzzi,
head of Austrian Railway Tours on on May 29 at Club Stefansplatz
4, 1010 Vienna. Vienna’s Auxiliary Bishop, Mag.Dr. Franz
Scharl, pointed out the need of environmental protection and
praised all who took the initiative to make people aware of
environmental protection. The global warming is becoming dangerous
to the whole humanity. Superintendent Mag.Hansjörg Lein
said that we are now the slaves of our industry and modern
life with more and more technology. Dr.Evelyn Hödl, organiser
of Vienna diocese for environmental protection thanked the
public and concluded the program thanking to every participant
and with an appeal to globalise this program.
About 3500 people registered for this programme this year
and Pezumkattil Family has become Asian pioneers of environmental
protection in Vienna! If you wish to know more about this
initiative just look in the web site www.autofasten.at. The
CO2 emission mainly through vehicles is really contributing
to global warming along with many factories and this should
be problem of concern of all. Let us take this initiative
of the dioceses in Austria as a good example.
Sabeena Kuruttuparambil is
‘Best Student of the Year 2007’
 Sabeena
Kuruttuparambil has been selected as the Best Student of the
Year 2007 from the Vienna Business Schools.
Nomination for the Best Student of the Year “Merkur
Award” – Oscar in Vienna Business School - is considered
on the basis of academic performance, crises management skill,
communication skill, team work, presentation skill and project
development skill, etc.
In 2005, Sabeena Kuruttuparambil bagged the Merkur Award
for the Best Ethic and Social Project for her work conducted
to help mentally retarded children in Vienna. In 2005-2006
academic year, Sabeena was the Chairperson of the school.
She also organized a charity fund raising and sent school
items and toys for the children at St. Thomas Orphanage, Thirunelveli,
Tamil Nadu during Christmas time.
Vienna Business Schools (VBS) are managed by autonomous Governing
Body consisting members of the Austrian Chamber of Commerce
and the Austrian School Authorities. VBS provides a basis
for the challenges of today's business world “Learning
by Doing" through contacts and projects with well-established
and successful companies.
Sabeena is the final year student of the 5 year Commerce programme
in the VBS Akademiestraße, 1010Vienna. Sabeena is the
first daughter of Abraham and Salomy Kuruttuparambil. Her
brother and sister, Saumya and Aby, study in Vienna. In her
free time, Sabeena teaches dances at Indian Catholic Community’s
Kairali Nikethan School and in Balakairali School in Vienna.
She is also an active member of Kerala Samajam Vienna as well
as Austrian Knanaya Community.
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)
Youth Festival on April
28 in Vienna
 Vienna’s
youth festival organised by Kairali Niketan is an opportunity
for Indian youth across Austria to learn, explore and express
their culture and faith in a dynamic environment. For years,
the Indian Catholic youth in Vienna have organized a spectrum
of events celebrating the rich Indian culture from educational
activities, such as teaching Indian dances and languages.
The Kairali Niketan has been active in creating opportunities
for all to celebrate and appreciate the diversity and richness
of Indian culture.
Kairali Niketan Youth Festival will be held at Haus der Begegnung,
Florisdorf on April 28 with competitions starting from 9.30
till 19.00 Hours. Indian classical, modern, Christian, cinematic,
folk dances, fancy dress competitions will be conducted.
The event itself has been a milestone to those who support
or attend the Festival. However, as many of those involved
in creating this unique event will tell you, the journey itself
was an experience an 'event' beyond any other -- a vision;
an atmosphere of tangible dedication and motivation; a learning
and sharing experience, of friendship and hard work. The festival
is something different for everyone but ultimately it is about
working towards a common goal to promote Indian art and culture
Kairali Nikethan School, established in 1993 under the guidance
of chaplain, Indian Catholic community Vienna, to promote
the linguistic heritage and Indian dances which illuminate
and express India's culture in a direct manner to the Malayalee
children living in Vienna. The school offers Malayalam classes,
Indian classical dance courses and modern dance courses.
Malayalam classes are offered to children of 5-15 years of
age. For the current school year there are 67 students in
6 classes learning Malayalam alphabet and lessons.
Indian classical dance has 31 students in 4 classes. Ms.
Jayanthi Judith Verunac, well known classical dance artist
teaches classical dance in Kairali Niketan since 1993.Indian
modern dance for calendar year has around 40 young students.
Three young talented teachers run the 6 classes in different
timing. Christian dances are taught to 24 students on a priority
basis for this year along with modern dance.
Flemming Felix Puthenpurayil
tops Asianet Talent Contest 2007
 The
Asianet Talent Contest held on March 31 at the Ilford Town
Hall was spectacular, which saw several new entrants who raised
the talent on show to new highs.
Most competitions were well prepared and rehearsed making
it tough to pick winners. For the first time most of the prizes
were won by entrants from outside East Ham and Croydon.
The classical dance competition for juniors saw the first
prize going out of the UK. The first and second prizes for
this category went to Flemming Felix Puthenpurayil and Bluinse
Thomas Choovattukunnel from Austria.
The presence of celebrity actor Innocent added glamour to
the whole show. The town hall was packed and it was standing
room only for many. Asianet Europe director Sreekumar thanked
everyone who attended the show. He had every reason to be
happy: it was a hugely sucessful success.
Kerala Samajam Vienna celebrated
Easter
Kerala Samajam Vienna celebrated Easter on April 9 at Pius
Parsch Platz 3, Floridsdorf. Samajam President Jimmy Koithara
welcomed all members; Fr. Thomas Vadathumukalel blessed KSV
with Easter Message. This was followed by colourful cultural
programmes from children and games for all members. Fr. Thomas
Vadathumukalel distributed prizes to the winners. The celebrations
wound up with delicious Easter Food.
Indian Catholic Community in
Vienna Celebrates Easter
The Indian Catholic community officially came into being
in Vienna in 1982 and 2007 is its jubilee year.
Before the Easter Celebrations a jubilee retreat was organised
both for young and old and it was conducted by Rev.Dr.Jose
Puthiyadom and Br. Raju Vellukunnel The real Easter celebration
started with Maundy Thursday on April 5 at 1400 Hours at Maria
Lourde Church Meidling, Tivoligasse 20, 1120 Vienna. It was
t he
day on which Jesus celebrated the Passover with his disciples,
sharing a meal with them which we call the Last Supper.
In ancient days it was usual for a servant to wash the guest’s
feet on arrival. Since on that occasion when Jesus celebrated
Passover, there was no servant present and none of the disciples
volunteered to do the menial task. Instead, Jesus got up and
washed his disciples’ feet, giving them an object lesson
in humility and service. Commemorating of Christ's act ICC
Chaplain Rev.Dr.Thomas Thandappally washed the feet of 12
selected children.
On Good Friday, the entire Church looks towards the Cross
at Calvary. Each member of the Church tries to understand
at what cost Christ has won our redemption. In the solemn
ceremonies of Good Friday, in the Adoration of the Cross,
in the chanting of the 'Reproaches', in the reading of the
Passion, and in receiving the pre-consecrated Host, we unite
ourselves to our Saviour, and we contemplate our own death
to sin in the Death of our Lord. Remembering this historical
fact ICC Vienna started its Good Friday services with an inspiring
speech by Rev. Rev.Dr.Jose Puthiyadom.He pointed out that
“surely He has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows;
yet we esteemed Him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted.
But He was wounded for our transgressions, He wa s
bruised for our iniquities; upon Him was the chastisement
that made us whole, and with His stripes we are healed. All
we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to
His own way; and the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of
us all”.
The Easter day was celebrated with a concelebration of Holy
Mass at 1500 Hours at Maria Lourde Church with Rev.Dr.Jose
Puthiyadom as main celebrant assisted by Rev.Dr.Thoams Thandappilly,
ICC Chaplain, Assistant Chaplain Rev.Father Thomas Vadathumukalel,
Rev.Father Thomas Kochuchira, Rev. Fr.Davis Kalapurackel and
Fr. Nickolas. During the homily Rev.Dr.Jose pointed out "The
mission of disciples is to bear witness to the death and resurrection
of their Master and of their new life.”. The Easter Celebrations
continued with a youth festival on April 9 from 14.00-20.00
Hours where speech competition and song competitions were
conducted. The final part and major part of the youth festival
with dance and fancy dress competitions will be conducted
on April 28 from 1000-19.00 Hours at Haus Der Begegnung Florisdorf.
The Indian Catholic Community has already planned an year-long
colourful programme to celebrate its jubilee. More about its
activities from its web site www.iccvienna.org
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.
Annual
Retreat 2007 in Vienna
 The
annual retreat of the Indian Catholic Community in Vienna
for both men and women will take place from March 31 to April
3. It will once again be held at the Stadtlau Church and Maria
Lourde Church Meidling to gain a more intimate spiritual life
through prayer, sacraments, Holy Scripture, and embracing
the will of God.
In the context of Silver Jubilee Year ICC organizes a 7 days
retreat on March 29, 30, 31 April1, 2, 3 and 7.The retreat
for the Spiritual Renewal in the context of Jubilee Year will
be led by Rev. Fr. Dr. Jose Puthiyedath, Director, Dept. of
Catechesis, Archdiocese of Ernakulam, Angamaly, Secretary
of Catechetical Commission, Syro Malabar Church followed by
counselling by Br. Raju Vellukunnel. Special retreat for the
youth above 12 will be on April 7 at St.Catherine church.
More about the activities of the ICC from its web site www.iccvienna.org
European
Knanaya Convention Souvenir
 The
souvenir of the first European Knanaya Convention held in
Pinkafeld in 2006, Austria, is now ready for distribution.
The multi-color Smaranika contains photos, report, compliments,
European Knanaya Telephone Directory, history of European
Knanaya Communities, Messages and Articles from Prominent
Indian and European personalities, etc.
For copies please contact Austrian Knanaya
community through e-mails or
and phone Nos. 0043 6991 9740304 (Benny
Malieckal) or +431 9740879 (Binoy
Kunnumpurathu).
Dr.Jose Kizhakkekara
elected president of International Atomic Energy Agency Volleyball
Club
Dr .Jose
Kizhakkekara, public relations officer of the Vienna Malayalee
Association and Manager of Indian Sports Club Vienna (ISC
Vienna ) has been unanimously elected president of the Volleyball
Club Vienna based UN organisations. This is the second time
he has been elected. Jose is the eldest son of Late Mr.Pappachen
- Claramma Kizhakkekara couples living at Muvattupuzha.Ms.Kcohuthressia
Pulikottil M.Sc, former lecturer of Chemistry, Vimala College
Trichur is his wife.Known Indian Volleyball Players in Austria
Engineer Tejo Kizhakkekara, Dr. Sajo Kizhakkekara and Dipl.Ing
Tessy Kizhakkekara are their children.
Addressing the general assembly meeting of the club Jose
said that sport has been promoted on a broad basis for a number
of decades now-every where from schools and recreational organisations
to high-level competitive programs. Besides development of
the activity itself sport possesses potential for human, economic
and social development as well as promoting peace. He expressed
his desire to contribute to this goal and wished that the
UN based Sport clubs can do a lot in this regard.
Rev.
Fr. Thomas Mathew Vadathumukalel appointed ICC Assistant Chaplain
Rev. Fr. Thomas Mathew Vadathumukalel has been appointed the
new Assistant Chaplain. He was introduced on February 11 during
the Holy Mass at Meidling and Stadlau Churches and took charge
officially.
Fr. Thomas Mathew was born on April 15, 1971, at Parampuzha
village in the district of Kottayam, Kerala, India, to Pichakasseril
Ulahannan Mathew and Rosamma. He is the second child of the
family and has two brothers and one sister. He entered the
Assisi Bhavan Minor Seminary of Fransciscan Third Order Regular
in 1986.
He completed his philosophical studies from St. Albert’s
College, Ranchi, Jharkhand, in the year 1992. He finished
his Theological studies at Dharmaram Vidhya Kshetram, Bangalore
in 1996. Later he also completed his bachelor’s degree
in Sociology from Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)
Delhi. He was ordained a priest on 27 May 1998 at Holy Family
Bethlehem Church Parampuzha by His Grace Archbishop Joseph
Powathil of Changanassery Archdiocese.
He began his ministry as a Headmaster of St. Thomas School
and associate pastor of St. Thomas Church at Adhikari, West
Bengal in the Diocese of Bagdogra in 1998. Later he was appointed
as vocation promoter of the Order for four years in Kerala
from 1999 – 2003. In the year 2002 he was also appointed
as parish priest in Christ the King Church, Karani, Wyanad
in the Diocese of Mananthavady.
He then completed his master’s degree in Theology from
Dharmaram Vidhya Kshetram, Bangalore in 2005. Thereafter he
was appointed as parish priest to St. Thomas Church, Amalagiri
and Holy Family Church Nallathani in 2005 – 2006 in the
Diocese of Kanjirappilly.
International
volleyball tournament in Vienna on June 9
European volleyball champions, I.S.C Vienna, is helping
Global Malayalee Council to organise an international Volleyball
Tournament on June 9 from 13.00-22.00 Hours at Paho Round
Hall,Jura Soyfergasse 3, 1100 Vienna, Austria. Europe.
NRI Indian teams all over the world are invited. Free boarding
and lodging will be provided by organisers. Travel expenses
and other expenses are to be met by the teams.
The tournament is open to men and women. Those who are interested
to take part should contact the following before end of March
2007.Mr.Denny Kunnekaden (Global Malayalee Council; dennyjoseph@hotmail.com)
or Mr.Tomychen Velanguparackel , president I.S.C Vienna, (T.Velanguparackel@iaea.org
/telephone 0043-1-922 57 61). More about I.S.C Vienna from
its web site www.iscvienna.tk.
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)
Christmas
and New year celebrations in Vienna
Christians in and around Vienna, Austria, celebrated Christmas
with a Holy Mass at Maria Lourde Church, Tivoligasse 20, 1120
at 3.30 pm on Dec 25 with a group of Rev.Fathers led by Rev.Father
Johnson Vettoonickal. Before the Holy Mass there is a procession
which was led by Rev .Fathers and the General Coordinator
Mr.Jose Olimalayil and Vice Coordinator Miss Ms. Majol Padinjarekkalayil
An inspiring Christmas Message was given Vienna Auxiliary
Bishop Most Rev. Mag. Dr. Franz Scharl.
 While
giving the Christmas Message the Bishop appreciated the activities
of Indian Catholic Community in Vienna for maintaining the
valuable tradition of home country and transferring it to
the second generation effectively and also pointed out the
importance of Christmas in giving and practicing the message
of love wherever we go and work. He said "…in him
was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light
shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome
it. .(John 1:4-5)
“The good news of Christmas
shines forth upon the world like the summer sun in the southern
hemisphere, like a sparkling star in the wintry northern sky.
It shines brightly as "good news of great joy" in
a world that surrounds us with disturbing news. It renews
our faith in the promise of peace on earth, and calls us once
again to praise God whose glory extends to the highest heavens.
For centuries, the hope of peace inherent in Christmas has
been a central affirmation of the church's faith. Each time
that we celebrate the birth of Christ, we commit ourselves
to live out this hope. We celebrate the hope of Christmas
as the promise of peace. We recall the birth of Jesus who
came to us as a child threatened by violence, as a refugee
whose family fled due to the ambitions of the powerful. In
this season, in this world, we offer our thanks and praise
to God for the hope we have in Jesus Christ, for the gift
of God's love revealed in human vulnerability. The good news
of Christ's coming and dwelling among us is a source of illumination
in this world, for through his life and teachings he has shown
us the way that leads to peace.
J esus
said, "My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as
the world gives". This world gives us walls dividing
peoples, security strategies, repressive laws and pre-emptive
wars. Jesus calls us to discover responsible ways of living
in unity as human beings. Jesus Christ has given us the great
commandment to love and calls us to overcome the spirit of
vengeance, hatred and rivalry; he teaches us to pray for our
enemies. Jesus has instructed us not to pursue our own interests
at the expense of others, not to be envious when the disempowered
are re-empowered, not to obstruct justice when those who have
been deprived are restored. He has called us to discern the
face of God in the neglected and abandoned. He calls us daily
to lives of obedience, through our faith and in our actions.
The choir led by Ms.Marphi Mukkattukunnel and Cyriac Cherukad
made it melodious and attractive. The St.Mary's Orthodox Community
celebrated Christmas with a solemn Holy Mass by Rev. Fr. Dr.
Biji Chirathilattu and St.Thomas Orthadox community with a
solemn Holy Mass by Rev.Fr.Joykutty Varghese. Vienna Malayalee
Association, Kerala Samajam, Kerala Cultural Society and Indian
Sports Club Vienna also celebrated Christmas and New Year
with different attractive programmes.
ISC
Vienna's Triumph Continues
 An
International Tournament was conducted by ISC Vienna in Vienna
on 18th November 2006 at Paho Round Hall, Paho Round Hall,
Jura-Soyfer-Gasse 3, 1100 Vienna, in connection with the Jubilee
celebrations of ISC Vienna.8 men teams, UK1 and UK 2 from
England, IVC Switzerland, American International School, Vienna
Christian School, Combodia Linz , ISC Vienna Blue , ISC Vienna
Yellow and also 5 women's team took part in the tournament.
The 8 teams were divided into 2 Groups of 4! ISC Vienna Blue
was lead to the event by Jolly Padinjarekutt (Captain),Regi
Melazhakathu, Valakuzhy Malcom, Binu Karakkattil,Pradesh,
Arun Mangalath, Anish Mangalath , Tejo Kizhakkekara, Linto
Palakudy and ISC Yellow was presented by Tiby Puthoor ( Captain),
Gracious Choovattukunnel, Shibu Thekkethala, Thankachen Vettukattel,
Rinku Kurian , Bibu Joseph , Siju Valiaplackel and George
Njondimackal.
 It
was a Tournament with many superlatives. The Tournament itself
kept high standard in play and discipline. The UK teams lead
by former star player of ISC Mr. Sunny Ayyamala and another
team switzerland lead by former ISC Captain and star Player
Mr.Jain Pannarakunnel were really a challenge. But they could
not withstand the thundering smashes of Captain Mr.Jolly.
The UK and Switzerland teams tried their best through their
blitz action. But the super blocks built by Arun, Anish, Pradehs,
Tejo Kizhakkekara and Malcom made all their efforts in vain.
The super show of Malcom, Jolly Padinjarekkutt, Arun , Anish
and pradesh lead the team to victory. Reason enough for Malcom
while he was selected as Best player of the Tournament. ISC
yellow team also did well and came out with 4th place. For
the first time ISC presented a Ladies team too. The team led
by Murphy Mukkattukunnel, Anita Athithara, Tessy Kizhakkekara,
Jasmin and Jimmimol Perumaden, Christine and Alex presented
an attractive match and came out with 4th place. The following
teams made the Jubilee Tournament of ISC Vienna wonderful
and attractive and came out winners in the following order.
Men' team: ISC Blue 2.UK13.IVC Switzerland 4.ISC Yellow 5.Combodia
6.UK 2 7.American International School and 8. Vienna Christian
School
Ladies Team: State Side 2. Tierra 3. Fuerz Andina 4.ISC Vienna
and 5. Vienna Christian School
 The
ISC player Mr. Malcom Valakuzhy was selected as best offender,
Mr.Stradin from UK1 was selected as best defender and Mr.
Jain Pannarakunnel from Switzerland Team was selected as best
all rounder. The winners were honored by Trophies by Captain
of Austrian Champions Hot Volleys Mr.Gerald REISER. It was
again remarkable since it was opened by Green part Leaders
Mr. Manfred Itzinger, Klubobmann der Wiedner Grünen Mrs.
Zerife Yatkin, Hernalser Bezirkrätin Mr. Mohammad Maleki,
Hernalser Bezirksrat Mr. Hikmet Arslan, Aktivist der Grünen
MigrantInnen Wien.Above all the opening dance by Kumari Srampical
and Kumari Ernakeril added to the attraction. ISC Vienna has
created a good name for India and also for Indian Population
with its active participation in many similar Tournaments
among Austrian Community and also International Community.
ISC is promoting the youth both boys and girls. Because of
the spectacular, incredible and fast game ISC could win its
Group and charged into the semi-finals where ISC met the favorites
Switzerland.
In a breathtaking first set ISC could demolish Switzerland
and surprised everyone by their passionate play!! The highly
favorite Switzerland was beaten. Both teams were fighting
and playing volleyball on a very high level! Smashes here,
blocks there, diving's, passion, everything what makes a spectacular
and interesting Volleyball game. Both teams showed the audience
what they were capable of! The hall was trembling and every
smash hit like thunder! The final was played between UK1 with
its super stars and ISC Vienna Blue. ISC Vienna won Jubilee
Tournament. ISC Vienna teams played brilliant volleyball .ISC
Vienna Yellow became fourth after spectacular play against
UK1 .More about ISC Vienna from its web site www.iscvienna.tk.
The jubilee Tournament was addressed by ISC President Mr.Tomychen
VELANGUPARACKEL and the pioneers of the club Jose Thailayil,
Jose Kizhakkekara, George Thattil, Jose Kunjamparambil, Thomas
Chennithala, Thomas Kizhakkekara, and Mathew Kizhakkekara.
Kuttiyachen Marasseril, Monychen Nellore, Joy Padinjarekkut,John
Kollanur were honored.
Grand reception to Padma Shri
Sr. Sudha Varghese in Vienna
 After
attending the International Dalit Women's Conference conducted
in Netherlands Sr. Sudha Varghese reached Vienna. She was
given grand reception on Nov. 25 and 26 at Vienna. She narrated
her adventurous activities in Bihar. Padma Shri Sudha Varghese
born in Chennamparampil family near Kottayam reached Bihar
at the age of 16 after joining the congregation Notre Dame.
Sister Sudha Varghese, member of Notre Dame Sisters Congregation
was awarded a Padma Shri this year. She has been living and
working at a village named Jamsaur in Patna district.
For the past 20 years, Sister Sudha Verghese, has untiringly
devoted herself to the service of Musahars, the Dalits of
Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. These people are counted to the most
backward, lowest and poorest Dalits in the society. They live
in abject poverty in small villages in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.
While other people in the world are avoiding the Musahars,
Sister Sudha Varghese travelled all the way from the prosperous
district of Kottayam in Kerala to be with them, to live with
them and dedicate her life to their progress - a truly expertly
lifework. Today, Sister Sudha's accomplishments are many.
She runs centres for Musahar girls and mainstreams them into
society. Sister Sudha's organisation "Nari Gunjan"
runs 50 educational centres for Musahar girls where about
1,500 students learn academics and also vocational skills
such as stitching and embroidery. She fights court cases for
those against whom crimes have been committed. Sister Sudha
is active in 50 villages of the Danapur and Phulwari Sharif
area, about 40 km from Patna. Later in the 1970s, after her
graduation, she returned to work in the schools run by Notre
Dame. But Sister Sudha Varghese did not like the urban-centric
approach of Notre Dame and was more interested in working
in villages.
During her initial visit to different areas of the state,
she was deeply shocked by the condition of the socially condemned
Musahars. In 1986, she created a movement when she started
staying at a Musahar village. People from other castes and
communities targeted her but it did not bother her. Far from
it -- it was a small beginning for her. Especially in education
a lot of things had to be done. Even today the literacy rate
is just 0.2% among Musahar women and 2% among the men. Working
for the uplift of Musahars has been no easy task. She was
given a second reception on Nov 26 by the Indian Catholic
Community. Her experience with the lowly Musahars who were
called as rat eaters is really a eye opener to all. The Malayalee
community in Austria congratulated her expressing pride at
the national recognition which she got this year. Those who
attended the function offered to help her activities.
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)
New International Labour
Union Launched at Vienna
Delegates from trade
unions worldwide launched a new global labour federation on
30th October 2006; Wednesday in Vienna aimed at ensuring workers'
rights are not forgotten in the rush toward economic globalization.
Organizers said the International Trade Union Confederation
- formerly known as the International Confederation of Free
Trade Unions - would reinvent and modernize itself to better
tackle fresh challenges to the rights of unionized workers
and to strengthen its efforts to stamp out forced and child
labour.
"The strong tradition of solidarity will continue,"
said Guy Ryder, appointed Wednesday to head the ITUC after
the old union and the World Confederation of Labour were formally
dissolved.
"Trade union unity at the international level is now
essential to ensuring more effective representation of the
rights and interests of workers in the global economy,"
he said.
Officials said the new umbrella group, touted as the worlds
largest dedicated to workers' rights, would represent more
than 150 million members from 241 affiliated organizations
in 154 countries.
It replaces the Brussels, Belgium-based ICTFU, which was
founded in 1949 to work on the enforcement of international
labour standards.
Austrian President Heinz Fischer, addressing the estimated
1,700 delegates in Vienna at famous Vienna Museum centre for
a conference called giving workers a greater voice "an
important and indispensable component of a democratic society.”
The president of Austrian Parliament Ms.Barbara Prammer witnessed
the historical moment and wished all the best for the new
World Union and expressed her wish that it will come to the
expectation of millions of workers and employees all over
the world.
Emilio Gabaglio, a former head of the European Trade Union
Confederation, urged the world's labour unions to "go
on the offensive" and combine forces to improve conditions,
particularly for poor workers in developing countries.
The new confederation brings together a wide and diverse
range of major labour unions, including Britain's Trades Union
Congress, the United States' AFL-CIO, France's CGT union,
Germany's DGB trade union federation and dozens of other labour
groups from five continents.
It staked out a tough position against globalization in its
charter approved Wednesday, which decried violations of what
members insist, is a universal right to strike for better
pay and working conditions and engage in collective bargaining.
"More than ever in its history, confronted by unbridled
capitalist globalization, effective internationalism is essential
to the future strength of trade unionism," the charter
declared, vowing to continue the struggle "for the emancipation
of working people and a world in which the dignity and rights
of all human beings is assured."
Lowell Peterson, a partner in the New York law firm of Meyer,
Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C., called the ITUC's formation
a "major development" in the international labour
movement's quest to influence global business.
"Local and national unions are no longer in a position
to affect global flows of capital and labour," Peterson
said. "A union in, say, New York or Michigan can have
some effect on some of its members' wages. But if the employer
has the ability to operate facilities profitably in New York,
Michigan, Germany, and Romania, India, there needs to be some
way for the workers at those various facilities to coordinate
their efforts."
Ryder said the new organization would "exert more influence
on companies, governments and the international financial
and trade institutions" to ensure corporate wealth is
shared with workers.
Willy Thys, former head of the World Confederation of Labour,
said the challenge was to stop the flouting of workers' rights
in what he called "race-to-the-bottom globalization.”.
Delegates from India too attended this historical moment.
ISC
Vienna is Champions in an International Volleyball Tournament
in Vienna
An International Tournament was conducted by UN organizations
in Vienna on 21st October 2006 at Paho Round Hall, Paho Round
Hall, Jura-Soyfer-Gasse 3, 1100 Vienna.
6 men teams, Russian Team, IAEA, International, Vienna Beachers,Neu
Siedl Sea ISC Vienna and also 6 women's team took part in
the tournament. The 6 teams were divided into 2 Groups of
3! Indian Sports Club Vienna (ISC Vienna) was lead to the
event by Jolly Padinjarekutt (Captain),Regi Melazhakathu,
Valakuzhy Malcom, Binu Karakkattil,Pradesh, Arun Mangalath,
Anish Mangalath Tiby Puthoor (Manager) and Tomychen Velanguparakal
(President).Even if two prominent ISC players Mr.Tejo Kizhakkekara
and Linto Palakudy played for UN teams ISC Vienna presented
a really fantastic match with high standard It was a Tournament
with many superlatives. The Tournament itself kept high standard
in play and discipline. ISC Vienna has created a good name
for India and also for Indian Population with its active participation
in many similar Tournaments among Austrian Community and also
International Community.. ISC is promoting the youth both
boys and girls and it is on its way of building up youth and
women's team. This time ISC Vienna presented a ladies team
which also presented an attractive match.
Every team played against every team in each group and the
first two of each group emerged into the semifinals!
Because of the spectacular, incredible and fast game ISC could
win its Group and charged into the semifinals where ISC met
the favorites IAEA with Linto Palakudy and Tejo Kizhakkekara
star players of ISC Vienna.
In a breathtaking first set ISC could demolish IAEA and surprised
everyone by their passionate play!! The highly favorite IAEA
was beaten with a Score way under 18!
Both teams were fighting and playing volleyball on a very
high level! Smashes here, blocks there, diving's, passion,
everything what makes a spectacular and interesting Volleyball
game. Both teams showed the audience what they were capable
of! The hall was trembling and every smash hit like thunder!
The final was played between Beachers with its super stars
and ISC Vienna. ISC Vienna won the annual International Tournament.
After some unfortunate years in the past, the CUP is back
to where it belongs. ISC Vienna played brilliant volleyball
and beat the Beachers in a great fight for the championship.
IAEA became third after spectacular play against former champions
Neusiedl and turned out very good third. ISC Star Player Mr.
Arun Mangalath was selected as best player of the Tournament.
ISC Vienna's newly formed ladies team also took part in the
International Ladies tournament and made their first good
experience as a volleyball team and presented an attractive
match. More about ISC Vienna from its web site www.iscvienna.tk
Indian
Catholic Community Vienna: Silver Jubilee Inauguration and
welcome to Mar George Pallipparambil SDB, Bishop of Miao in
Vienna
Indian Catholic Community organized a hearty welcome to Mar
George Pallipparambil SDB, Bishop of Miao on the occasion
of his visit to Vienna to inaugurate Jubilee celebrations
of Indian Catholic Community in  Vienna.
On October 8 Mar George Pallipparambil celebrated the holy
mass at Maria Lourdes Church, Meidling, and Vienna along with
Rev.Dr.Thomas Thandappally, Rev.Fr.Thomas Kochuchira, and
Rev.Fr.Davis Kalapurackel. Bishop Palliparambil conveyed the
messages and highest appreciation of His Eminence Cardinal
Christopher Schönborn of Vienna in the activities of
Indian Catholic Community in Vienna.
In his sermon while narrating the passages of Gospel according
St.Mark, Chapter 10/1-12 he pointed out the rules and regulations
are meant for the welfare of the community and also fro easy
service to the mankind and it should not be observed or considered
as a chain which takes the freedom of the people and causes
hindrance to the growth of the community. It should rather
help peaceful coexistence and happy life.
While welcoming the Bishop, Indian community chaplain pointed
out that it is not only the Jubilee year of the Indian Catholic
Community in Vienna but also the Jubilee year of the Priesthood
of Mar George Pallipparambil .Towards the end of the Holy
Mass Mar George Pallipparambil inaugurated the Silver Jubilee
celebrations by lightening a stand lamp and handing over the
wicks to coordinators of different committees formed for the
Jubilee celebrations headed by the General coordinator Mr.
Jose Olimalayil. Additional attraction of the Holy Mass was
youth which consisted of youth of second generation choir
lead by Ms.Murphy Mukkattukunnel
Indian Catholic Community was established officially in April
2002 with the official induction of Fr.Paul Parakattel C.M.I
followed by Fr.Chandy Kalapurackel, Fr. John Nirappel, Fr.George
Kochukarottel and the present Chaplain Rev.Dr.Thomas Thandappilly.
The community was further blessed by the induction of an assistant
chaplain Rev.Mag.Sarat Shaju IMS. The Jubilee celebration
inaugurated by Mar Palliparambil will long for a year with
many religious, cultural social events and grand concluding
event is planned to be conducted on October 14.
More about its activities at www.iccvienna.org
Socialists
edge conservatives but right gains in Austria
The federal elections in Austria on October 1 ended with an
upset victory marked with the troublesomerise of far-right
parties. The Social Democrats, coming from behind, took 35.7%
of the vote in preliminary results, narrowly beating Chancellor
Dr. Wolfgang Schuessel`s ruling conservatives, who got 34.2%.
Schuessel`s People`s Party ended up with 66 parliamentary
seats, two less than the Social Democrats, spearheaded by
their top candidate, Dr.Alfred Gusenbauer. The result has
surprised the country.
Schuessel`s conservatives for the last six years have ruled
the country in a controversial coalition with the far-right
party Freedom Party, formed by populist Joerg Haider. His
neo-Nazi ideology caused the European Union to impose sanctions
on Austria that lasted half a year.
Schuessel, however, managed to push through successful reforms
and turned Austria into somewhat of a European success story,
with little unemployment and stable economic growth. He also
kept Haider`s influence quite limited -- Haider has since
left the Freedom Party to form the Alliance for Austria`s
Future, another far-right party. Both the Freedom Party and
the Haider party campaigned with nasty anti-immigration slogans,
and together, they combined for more than 15% of the voter.
While the Freedom Party got 11.2% of the vote and is the
third-strongest party in the country, the Alliance got 4.2%,
narrowly making it into parliament.
The Alliance has campaigned for immediately expelling some
300,000 foreigners from Austria, a country with little more
than 8 million citizens. So may be the extreme right's time
in government: Gusenbauer, who is set to become Austria's
next chancellor, has said he intends to form a coalition either
with the Green Party or with Schuessel`s conservatives. Such
a grand coalition model has dominated Austria before 2000,
but observers say the parties` different agendas are hard
to combine, which may result in political deadlocks.
Much depends on over 200,000 absentee ballots that are still
to be counted. Final results have to be announced by Oct.
9. Gusenbauer has said he knows that coalition-building will
be a 'tough task. Indians in Austria took active part in this
election. A candidate of Indian origin Dr. Monika Einzinger
was one the candidates of the democratic socialist party.
Malayalee community in Austria actively backed different parties.
Austrian-Indian
Relation-Firm and Traditional-Indian Over seas Affairs Minister
Vayalar Ravi
Honourable Union Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs Sri
Vayalar Ravi arrived in Vienna on 8th September 2006 to attend
the Onam Celebrations of Vienna Malayalee Association as Chief
Guest. He was given a warm welcome by the President Mr.Babu
Kuzhikottayil and executive committee members of Vienna Malayalee
Association at the Vienna Airport. Indian Ambassador to Austria,
H.E. Dr. Sheel Kant Sharma. Deputy Chief of Mission Mr.Anup
Kumar Mudgal, other Counsellors, diplomats and staff of Indian
Embassy in Vienna were also present. In the evening a warm
reception to the honourable minister by the Indian community
and Embassy of India was organised by the Indian mission to
Austria in the Austrian Chamber of Commerce Hall. There after
a open session for the Diaspora Indian community was held.
The meeting was attended by office bearers and members of
different Diaspora Indian communities in Vienna. Indian Ambassador
to Austria Dr. Sheel Kant Sharma, Mr. Anup Kumar Mudgal, Deputy
Chief of Indian Mission in Austria and Counsellor Mr. R.K.S
Joshi shared the podium with Hon'ble minister and assisted
him during the open session in which the Minister answered
various question touching different topics concerning Indian
Diaspora community. Indian government will make efforts to
provide equal rights for the non resident Indian (NRI) students,
including the fees and opportunities, in the education institutions
in the country, said Overseas Indian Affairs Minister Vayalar
Ravi during the discussion.
"The government is concerned about the high rates of
fees the education institutes that are imposing on the NRI
students" Ravi told the representatives of Indian communities
in Vienna.
The Onam and Independence  Day
was celebrated by Vienna Malayalee Association on 9th September
with grandeur. The programme started with welcoming the Chief
Guest Sri Vayalar Ravi and other guests of honour into the
hall with "Thalapoli" and "Chendamelam".
The programme started a bit later than scheduled, was studded
with Indian and south Indian traditional and classical Dances
as well as modern programmes including "Thiruvathira",
Kuchipudi, Mohiniyattam, Bollywood dances, Remixes, Music,
songs and Veena etc taking the guests as well the full house
audience to Kerala and giving the Diaspora community a feeling
of being in a festival at home.We are grateful to the people
from Kerala here. The health sector of this country is blessed
with the dedicated people from your state," said Manfred
Wurm, district chairman of Vienna's district-23.
Ravi, who is from Kerala,  said,
"I am proud of my people. They serve this nation as devoted
angels. That's what Wurm told me." Ravi, who also met
members of the Indian community during an interaction programme,
told Austrians about the role that India's first Prime Minister
Jawaharlal Nehru played in making Austria a sovereign republic.
It was his sincere effort that Mr.Russian Prime Minister Nikita
Khrushchev changed his mind and decided to give freedom to
Austria. "This relation with Austria remains and it has
become traditional firm ",Ravi added.Austria signed a
state treaty in 1955 to be 'permanently neutral'. "I
have been attending the Kerala Onam celebrations regularly
for the last four years. They have better programmes every
year," Wurm, who briefly joined the dancers on the stage,
said. "Now I want to visit Kerala," he added.
"Amid the hectic schedules throughout the year, this
season is very exciting. We practise for the programmes for
weeks. It also gives us an opportunity to meet each other,"
Vienna Malayalee Association (VMA) president Babu Kozhikottayil
said while addressing the public. H.E.Mr.Sheel Kant Sharma,
the Indian ambassador to Austria, and Sunil Kumar Mohit, deputy
chief of the Indian mission in Vienna, also attended the function.
The cultural programme, organised by the VMA effectively
organised by the committee with the support of Ms.Lisa Kappany,
Murphy  Mukkattukunnel,
Ms.Jasmin Perumaden and many others. The Chandu Pottu with
a combination of traditional Vallam Kali organised by Mr.Jose
Valukkaren and team was highly appreciated. Mr.Thattil Nadackalan
Babu appeared as Mahabali and he took all to Kerala and also
to the dream land. The programme was professionally moderated
by Mr.Tejo Kizhakkekara and Ms.Simi John. The huge public
was thanked by Secretary Ms.Beena Thupathy. Many Austrians
and also hundreds of people from different attended and appreciated
show.More information and photos with Hon. Minister one gets
from the web site www.vma.nri.at
Indian
Independence Day Celebration 2006 in Vienna
The 60th Independence Day of India was celebrated in Vienna
on August 15 with Ambassador Dr.Sheel Kant Sharma hoisting
the Indian flag at the Embassy Residence  before
about 300 Indians and friends of India. Ambassador appealed
the public to support president's seven point programme for
the rapid growth of India and the people's welfare.
Following the flag hoisting, the National Anthem was sung
and Ambassador Sharma read out the President's address to
the nation on the eve of the Independence Day. Eminent artists
from India gave a scintillating performance of patriotic songs.
The social gathering in the evening at the Embassy Residence
included officers of the Embassy and their families, senior
journalists, Indian professionals, community leaders, scholars
and friends of India, prominent members of Austrian Industry,
representative different Indian Organizations like Vienna
Malayalee Association. World Malayalee Hindu Mandir, World
Malayalee council. More than 500 people took part.
Austrian
girl 'found' after eight half years
A girl who disappeared in Austria eight years ago in a case
which gripped the nation has been found. Ms
Kampusch's disappearance in 1998 shocked Austria and triggered
a search that included the dragging of riverbeds."She
is white-pale, looking as if she had been out of the light
of day for a long time, but she articulated well and could
read and write," the Austria Press Agency quoted a police
investigator as saying. Austria. The suspected abductor, Wolfgang
Priklopil, committed suicide before the police could question
him.
It was just another order by the man who had enslaved her
for eight years, this time to vacuum his car which gave Natascha
Kampusch a tiny window of opportunity. She bolted to freedom
while her abductor was busy with a cell phone call. As investigators
interviewed the 18-year-old about her harrowing ordeal, some
neighbors questioned on Sept 25 whether they could have done
more to end it earlier. Stefan Freiberger, a retiree in his
60s, recalled his daughter and a friend telling him that the
man believed to be the abductor of Kampusch had exposed himself
a few years ago as the two girls rode their bikes past the
back of his house. Freiberger said he thought of complaining
to the police about the man, Wolfgang Priklopil - but didn't.
Priklopil's house in a semi-rural community - where children
play freely in the streets and doors are left open - had a
menacing aura, Freiberger said. "Whenever I went by,
everything was closed," he told The Associated Press,
recalling a house characterized by shuttered windows, closed
gates and a well-manicured lawn.. Priklopil, 44, killed himself
Wednesday by jumping in front of a Vienna commuter train.
Police have said they are looking for a possible accomplice
based on the testimony eight years ago of a 12-year-old girl
who claimed to have seen two people in a white van stop and
seize Natascha. Priklopil's suicide came just a few hours
after Kampusch escaped and frantically pleaded for help at
a neighbor's door. Erich Zwettler, the head of Austria's federal
police, told reporters that Kampusch had taken advantage of
an unguarded moment while her abductor stepped away to talk
on his cell phone.
Expressing relief and incredulity that Kampusch was found
alive, Interior Minister Liese Prokop told reporters: "We
were only looking for a corpse. "Kampusch, whose identity
was confirmed through DNA testing, was at an undisclosed location
Friday for police and psychologist questioning, and her relatives
declined to talk to media. Some Austrian newspapers claimed
to have interviewed Kampusch on Friday. The Kronen Zeitung
tabloid quoted Kampusch as saying "He dragged me into
his car and said, 'Stay quiet, lie down, or something bad
will happen to you.'
The daily also said she "slept well" during her
first night in freedom and described her breakfast, shared
with police - croissants, orange juice, salty rolls, butter,
chocolate spread, marmalade and muesli. Police had contact
with her abductor about three months after Kampusch disappeared
but he had a "sturdy alibi" at the time, Nikolaus
Koch, a lead investigator, said on Austrian television. Photos
released by police of the hiding place in his house where
the young woman said she was kept showed a small, cluttered
room with narrow concrete stairs leading down to it from an
entrance so small it would have to be crawled through. Another
photo showed a metal hatch that sealed the windowless, underground
room. Authorities said there were a bed and a toilet in the
cramped space. Images on TV showed a small television in the
room, which also had a sink and was littered with piles of
books. Police said the woman was occasionally allowed to watch
videos. Local police official Adolf Brenner said Kampusch
appeared in relatively good spirits, saying her "fairly
large vocabulary" suggested she might even have been
schooled by her captor. It was unclear how much of her time
the young woman spent in confinement, and some neighbours
suggested she was allowed to accompany Priklopil at least
briefly by the time she was in her teens. Retiree Maria Rath
remembered seeing a young woman in his car a few years ago.
"Finally he found a girlfriend," the daily Kleine
Zeitung quoted her as saying. She did not see the young woman
again until Wednesday. "When I came home, there was police
everywhere suddenly," she said. "And there was this
same woman in the middle, wearing a red dress."
ISC Vienna
win Austrian Beach Volleyball Tournament
The "Don’t worry chicken curry" team of I.S.C
Vienna won the Austrian Beach Volleyball Tournament held at
the beautiful Schwadorf (near Schwechat!) on
July 15.
I.S.C Vienna’s second team "Wurscht Masala",
were an unlucky fourth. Each team in the tournament consisted
of 4 players of which at least one had to a female.
Team "Don’t worry chicken curry” (subs: Pradheesh
Abraham, Jasmin Perumaden, Tessy Kizhakkekara, Lisa Kappany
and Tejo Kizhakkekara) team "Wurscht Masala" (subs:
Jerry Thailayil, George Njondimackel, Rinku Kurian, Ukkan
Binu, and Jimmymol Perumaden) played spectacularl volleyball.
Team "Don’t worry chicken curry" entered the
semifinals winning all games where they met "Wurscht
Masala" which had lost only one game. Superior play got
"Don’t worry chicken curry" past "Wurscht
Masala" in three tight games.
"Wurscht Masala" lost the battle for the third
place 2-1. "Don’t worry chicken curry" dominated
the finals and won 2:0.
Visa fraud-
4 Malayalees committed suicide in Italy
4 Malayalees committed suicide in Italy in the recent
months. All of them believed to be on tourist visa from India.
They were promised golden heaven in Europe by the visa agencies.
But the reality hit them in the form of poverty and despair
when they realised that they couldnt do any job with their
tourist visa.
Dr.Shashi
Tharoor in Vienna
UNIS Vienna cond ucted
a lecture by Shashi Tharoor, Under-Secretary-General for Communications
and Public Information, on the topic of “Terrorism, Tolerance
and the Global Imagination”. The lecture took place at
the Festival Hall of Vienna University, Dr. Karl-Lueger-Ring
1, 1010 Vienna, on Tuesday, 27 June, at 18:30 hours and it
was hosted by the Dr.-Karl-Renner-Institute.
He is the UN’s Under-Secretary-General for Communications
and Public Information and the lecture was attended by large
international Diplomatic community including the Indian Ambassador
to Austria, Dr. Shel Kant Sharma.
After becoming the official candidate of India for the post
of UN Secretary General, his speeches are attended by large
community with high interest
If the Indian campaign on behalf of Tharoor is successful,
it will be the first time in the 61-year history of the UN
that has gone to an Indian. The choice of a successor will
have to be acceptable to all the five permanent members of
the council. The Bush administration has declined comment
on India's formal endorsement of U.N. diplomat Shashi Tharoor
as the next Secretary-General of the United Nations. Obviously,
the Secretary-General of the United Nations is an extremely
important position for the welfare of the whole world and
the United States will be looking very carefully at all the
nominees, a senior State Department official said, when asked
to respond to India's announcement last week.
This Keralite, Shashi Tharoor, was born in London in 1956
and he finished his school and college studies in India and
got his PhD at the age of 22 from the Fletcher School of Law
& Diplomacy at Tufts University. Since 1978, he has worked
for the United Nations and is currently the Under Secretary-General
for Communications and Public Information. Author of numerous
articles, short stories and commentaries in Indian and Western
publications, he is the winner of several journalism and literary
awards, including a Commonwealth Writers’ Prize.
Shashi Tharoor’s books include Reasons of State (1982),
a scholarly study of Indian foreign policy; The Great Indian
Novel (1989), a political satire; The Five-Dollar Smile &
Other Stories (1990); the novels Riot (2001) and Show Business
(1991), which was made into a motion picture titled Bollywood;
a study of independent India, India: From Midnight to the
Millennium (1997); a biography, Nehru: The Invention of India
(2003) and a collection of literary essays, Bookless in Baghdad
(2005).
Shashi Tharoor received the honorary degree of Doctor of
Letters in International Affairs from the University of Puget
Sound in May 2000. In January 1998, he was named by the World
Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, as a Global Leader of
Tomorrow.
Grand
Welcome to Mar Mathew Anikuzhikattil, Bishop of Idukki
"The immigrant communities
have a missionary duty to propagate the gospel in the alien
lands and also to share our cultural heritage where they are
living.."- Mar Mathew Anikuzhikattil, Bishop of Idukki.
He was speaking in a reception given to him at Maria Lourde
Church, Tivoligasse 20, 1120 Vienna.
"The exodus of Malayalees to the Austria revitalizes
the Catholic Church by regular attendance in holy mass and
other church activities. Kerala Catholics in Austria gave
a gr and
welcome to Mar Mathew Anikuzhikattil, Bishop of Idukki. He
celebrated holy mass along with 6 priests including RevDr.
Thomas Thandappally, thechaplain of Indian Catholic Community
in Vienna, Rev.Dr.James Niravath who quite recently got his
doctorate from Linz University. The chaplain welcomed the
bishop and Jose Olimalayil, the General Coordinator of Indian
Catholic Community thanked the gathering.
On the first half programmes
started at 6pm with carol song followed by classical and cinematic
dances by Sangeetha's dance school students and community
members.
Minnesotais blessed with a plenitude of Indian cultural events
stemming from a strong Indian community, many fine artists,
local and visiting, and appreciative and dedicated audiences.
Various local organizations contribute toward bringing these
artists to us, including our colleges and universities, Ragamala
Music and Dance Theater and Indian Music Society of Minnesota.
I hope that this page will encourage the continued growth
of the many Indian art forms which bless our city.
Spectacular
youth festival in Vienna
Vienna’s youth festival organised by Kairali Niketan
provided an opportunity for Indian youthacross Austria to
learn, explore and express their culture and faith in a dynamic
environment. For years, the Indian Catholic youths in Vienna
have organized a spectrum of events celebrating the rich Indian
culture from educational activities, such as teaching Indian
dances and languages. The Kairali Niketan has been active
in creating opportunities for all to celebrate and appreciate
th e
diversity and richness of Indian culture.
.Kairali Niketan Youth Festival was held at Haus der Begegnung,
Florisdorf on April 30 with competitions starting from 10:00
amand ending about 8:00 pm. Indian classical, modern, Christian,
cinematic and folk dances were performed. Prizes were distributed
by ICC Chaplain Fr. Dr. Thomas Thandappilly. PTA committee
members express thanks to everybody for the participation
and cooperation to make this event a big su ccess.
The various items were professionally staged and of high
standard. Sreeja Cherukad and Bluence Gracious Choovattukunnel
were declared winners and the wonderfully talented young Bluence
Gracious won prizes in allitems she presented.
The event itself has been seen as a milestone by those who
supported or attended the Festival. However, as many of those
involved in creating this unique event will tell you, the
journey itself was an experience and 'event' beyond any other
- a vision; an atmosphere of tangible dedication and motivation;
a learning and sharing experience, of friendship and hard
work. The festival was something different for everyone but
ultimately it was about working towards a common goal to promo te
Indian art and culture
The fancy dress items of children were among the highlights,
showcasing the talents of participating children. Prizes went
to Limi Kalapurackel for her suffering slave, the leper of
Leo Kalapurackel and Bluence’s Kakkathi.
Kairali Nikethan School, established in 1993 under the guidance
of Chaplain, Indian Catholic community Vienna, to promote
the linguistic heritage and Indian dances which illuminate
and express India's culture in a direct manner to the Malayalee
children living in Vienna. The school offers Malayalam classes,
Indian classical dance courses and modern dance courses.
Malayalam classes are offered to children of 5-15 years of
age. For the current school year there are 67 students in
6 classes learning Malayalam alphabet and lessons.
Indian classical dance has 31 students in 4 classes. Ms.
Jayanthi Judith Verunac, well known classical dance artist
teaches classical dance in Kairali Niketan since 1993.Indian
modern dance for calendar year has around 40 young students.
Three young talented teachers run the 6 classes in different
timing. Christian dances are taught to 24 students on a priority
basis for this year along with modern dance.
Ariyadan
Shaukath gets Award of Excellence from Prosi-Vienna
The Prosi Multicultural Club, the cultural wing of
the famous Prosi Exotic Super Market has presented this year's
Award of Excellence to Mr. Ariyadan Shaukath, at a partyin
Vienna on May 7.
 Shaukath
is the producer and scriptwriter of the famous films "Padam
onnu, oru vilapam" and "Daivanamathil", which
have been honoured with numerous state, national and international
awards.Shaukath is also the president of the Nilamboor Gramapanchayat.
The Malayalees in Vienna gave him a grand reception during
his visit to Vienna.
The managing director of Prosi Exotic Super market, Prince
Pallikunnel presented the award to Shaukath during a grand
function in the famous John Straus Ship, anchored in the beautiful
Danube River.The award was for his dedicated work in social,
cultural and political fields. The programme was commenced
with a prayer song by Ms.Bluience Gracious Choovattukunnel.
Mr. Sirosh Pallikunnel welcomed the guests. He has made a
special mention of Shaukath's "Jyothirgamaya" programme,
through which many people got the preliminary education.
Shaukath presented the Prosi Multi Cultural club's Kalaprathiba
award to kumari Bluience Gracious Choovattukunnel.Representatives
of different social, cultural, religious and sports organisations
felicitated him. Shaukath gave a touching and informative
speech describing his experience with various people and the
cinema. Even though some of the stories were very touching,
the speech was a mixture of jokes deftly capturing the audience.
Doy Mathew gave the vote of thanks. After the gala dinner,
Mr. Joe Alex Pulikottil entertained everybody with a melodious
ganamela.
Easter
Celebration in Vienna
The Easter is the time when a Christian focuses on
one aspect -- of the life-giving death and resurrection of
Jesus Christ. The Indian Christian Community in Austria celebrated
Easter in a traditionally touching way. As preparation for
the Holy Week an annual retreat was conducted for adults and
youths by Fr. Augustine Parambakath, Director, Asissi Shanthi
Kendra, Karukutty ,Kerala India.
It followed Palm Sunday celebration with Holy Mass lead by
Indian Catholic Community Chaplain Rev.Dr.Thomas Thandappilly
with five other priests. Special Message from Fr. Augustine
Parambakath, Director, Asissi Shanthi Kendra, Karukuttywas
touching and inspiring.
The three days of Easter started on Holy Thursday .The focus
of the service is the life, death and rising of Jesus. During
the Mass the Priest washed the feet of 12 youths signifying
sharing in the disciples of Jesus and the Christian mission
of love and service. Good Friday on- April 14 started at 9.30
am with Celebration of the Lord’s Passion The solemn
liturgy held together the passion, suffering and death of
Jesu | 
