City industry scene …: Ganesha food products

Business & Economy

GaneshaBF26feb2014

Delivering Quality Food Products to Mysoreans

By S. Kenneth Shishir

India is known as the “Home of Spices” and has a long history of trading. It is a known fact that even the Britishers who came to India as traders, were drawn towards the rich fragrance of these spices. Today, Indian spices are popular all over the world, for their exquisite aroma, texture and taste. In fact, India has the largest domestic and global market for spices.

One such industry in Mysore which manufactures spice powders and Vermicelli is Ganesha Food Products located at Belagola Food, Industrial Area, Metagalli, in city, which has become a household name, especially for its Vermicelli.

Started by Krishnamurthy at a small corner of his home in 1976 by manufacturing vermicelli and various spice powders, Ganesha Food Products, now, supplies chilly powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder and Puliyogare mix to various outlets in Mysore district.

Krishnamurthy, speaking to Star of Mysore, said, “Marketing in those days was really difficult. I was supplying products to K.R. Hospital, P.K. Sanatorium and many hostels in city; it was a one man show then.”

“In 1990, I thought of expanding the unit and by chance saw an advertisement in the paper about a sick unit in city being put up for sale. I immediately approached KSFC which provided me with financial assistance. I then started a manufacturing unit under the name Ganesha Food Products in 1992. The then DGM of KSFC helped me a lot,” he added.

Soon after, Krishnamurthy’s eldest son Narasimhamurthy, after completing his PU, joined the business. Then his other sons Keshavamurthy, a BE (Mech.) graduate, Guruprasad, a B.Com graduate and Raghavendra, a BE (Electricals) graduate, joined too, thus making it a family business.

His business grew and Krishnamurthy then faced the problem of space constraint. He then bought another sick unit and launched a second unit of Ganesha Products, close to the first unit. Even this time, KSFC came to his help and provided financial assistance.

Speaking about the quality of his products, Krishnamurthy said that his products were getting good response from the consumers due to the quality of products that he is maintaining since its inception till date. “Giving our consumers quality food products is our motto and we never compromise on quality,” he added.

He further said, “because we give quality products, we have survived in this industry. Food industries today, are facing a lot of competitions and most of the food industries in the surroundings have closed down due to stiff competitions from MNCs.”

Krishnamurthy said, apart from catering to the needs of our own Mysoreans, we now supply our products to other parts of Mysore district, Bellary, Davangere, Shimoga, Hiriyur, Udupi, Mangalore and other places.

Even major hotels in Mysore and Bangalore use our products.

Speaking about the raw materials required for manufacturing, he said that raw materials are purchased at the source where they are auctioned, example, for an item like Chilly. “We buy the products only after checking it’s quality. Sometimes, products are bought from Maharashtra also if we are not satisfied with the quality of our raw materials at the local markets.”

Speaking about the taxes levied on their products, Krishnamurthy said that the raw materials are exempted from taxes but taxes are levied on the finished products and also for packing materials.

His son Narasimhamurthy said that earlier there were a lot of food industries like pickle manufacturing units, jam manufacturing units, squash manufacturing units and much more in this zone, which is popularly called as ‘Belagola Food Industrial Area,’ but due too stiff competitions from MNCs, most of them have closed down.

He said, “if you want to run an industry you should not depend on anybody. Apart from giving 100% efforts, one has to be a driver, a technician, an electrician and should have a sound knowledge of everything pertaining to the industry to survive and succeed.”

He further said that their products are manufactured according to the standards prescribed by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and to guarantee this standard, they make use of the latest technology and the latest machineries and equipments.

Krishnamurthy said that his industry has survived all these years because of the quality and patience which is a must, also because of good business etiquettes and full support of his family members especially his sons who are now the working partners for the industry.

The work place and all the surrounding places are kept clean, tidy and hygienic in order to have cent percent sanitation. Employees and management of Ganesha Food Products are dedicated in providing best quality foods to every household.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore /Home> Feature Articles / February 22nd, 2014

Meet the multifaceted actor, philanthropist, teacher and much more …

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Nri's / Pio's, World Opinion

He is one of the good looking actors in the Kannada Film Industry. Though, he has not acted in many movies, he is highly regarded for his acting skills. We are talking about Chethan Kumar, Kannada cinema actor who made his debut in the 2007 released film Aa Dinagalu, which was great hit in recent times. Chethan is also a theatre artiste who has been using this form of art to educate the rural women and other students. Being born and both up in Chicago, USA, Chethan has completed his BA in South Asian Studies with an emphasis to Comparative Theatre Studies. He also received a Fulbright Scholarship to come to India in 2006.

ChetanKumarBF26feb2014

Chethan has also been serving as Rural School Instructor, Mullur, Karnataka. He has been voluntarily teaching critical thinking and analytical skills at Vinayaka Gnana Vidya Shale, which is located 25 km away from Mysore, Karnataka. Star of Mysore caught with the actor when he was in city yesterday to inaugurate a college event. Excerpts…

By S.N. Venkatnag Sobers

Star of Mysore (SOM): Having born and bought up in US, what made you to settle in India?

Chethan: Normally, we learn about some places in books and by watching programmes on television. But, the fact is that one will get to know more only by visiting such places. I wanted to be in India for several reasons among which one is to educate the rural masses who have been denied access to education. Being a theatre artiste I have used the art to educate the rural women and I have been working constantly with women Self Help Groups creating awareness on various issues.

SOM: Being an actor you have involved yourself with many philanthropic works. Tell us more about it?

Chethan: As an actor, it is important to do something for the society. There are several issues which need to be addressed in our State and country. One of the recent things that grabbed my attention was the Endosulfan. It was very sad to see children suffering for no fault of theirs. It is good that the State Government has taken steps to help these children and also against the use of Endosulfan.

SOM: You are actively involved in student movement and also in fight against discrimination. What do you have to say about it?

Chethan: Education is the most important means to create awareness among the people. I have been involved with Student Federation of India (SFI) and Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) which have been fighting for various causes related to education. If the society has to develop, education plays a vital role. For me, everyone in the society has to be educated. This apart, discrimination between men and women, castes still exists in the society. My intention is to fight against such discriminations and eradicate the social evil.

SOM: After making your debut as an actor in 2007, you are not seen in movies. You seem to be very choosy when it comes to scripts. Is it true?

Chethan: Yes. For me script is very important. I believe that cinema is a medium which should be used to send good message to the society. People get influenced by watching cinemas. As an actor, I only do movies which I think will have a positive impact on the society. I do not accept movies which glorify rowdism or where women are ill-treated. I have been hearing to number of scripts which have good characters. Hopefully, you will see me soon on silver screen.

SOM: What do you have to say about the present scenario in Kannada Film Industry?

Chethan: A number of newcomers have been trying to make their mark in the industry, which is a positive sign. But, if the industry has to grow further, it is important that we give emphasis to writers and directors. Of course, the subject has to be good. Unfortunately, we have been remaking movies from other languages. Writers should be given importance to come out with good original subjects. 2013 was good year for our industry. Hopefully, we will get to watch good movies in the years to come.

SOM: Your take on dubbing?

Chethan: Firstly, Karnataka has less number of theatres compared to other States. Sometimes there is fight for releasing Kannada movies. Dubbing will only affect the labourers of our industry. In my opinion, it is only for making money and nothing else. I have no problem if programmes of NGC and Discovery channels are dubbed as it can reach more people. But, movies are good to watch in original languages.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore /Home> Feature Articles / February 22nd, 2014

Pharma Fest 2014 begins

Business & Economy, Science & Technology
ESI Scheme Director Dr. (Mrs.) Rahimunnisa inaugurated the programme.
ESI Scheme Director Dr. (Mrs.) Rahimunnisa inaugurated the programme.

Mysore :

0ver 300 pharmacists of ESI hospitals attended day-long Pharma Fest-2014, organised by the pharmacists Association of ESI Hospitals of State, which commenced this morning at Guru Residency on JLB Road here.

ESI Scheme Director Dr. (Mrs.) Rahimunnisa inaugurated the programme.

Addressing the gathering as chief guest, Karnataka State government Employees’ Association (KSGEA) General Secretary Patel Pandu opined that the role of a pharmacist in dispensing the right medicine prescribed by a doctor was very vital. He said that a pharmacist should always be attentive and cautious is work. He advised the pharmacists to always abide by moral ethics.

Dr. Rahimunnisa and Dr. Subramanya, who are due to retire on Feb. 28, were feted on the occasion.

Children of Pharmacists — Swathi, Navya S. Rai, Deepak and Nihal — who excelled in SSLC and PU were presented prizes.

KSGEA President H.K. Ramu, Pharmacists’ Association President D.B. Mahadevaiah, Secretary M.K. Manjunath, Working President B. Mohan, General Secretary K. Narasegowda and others were present.

The afternoon session featured interaction on pharma sector.

source:http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore /Home> General News / February 22nd, 2014

Making a habit of it

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Science & Technology
Dr AJ Ansari (52) Director, Pristine Medical Services
Dr AJ Ansari (52) Director, Pristine Medical Services

His commitment to running and reading helps this doctor juggle multiple activities

A man with his finger in many pies, Dr AJ Ansari is also the President of the Classic Road Runner’s Athletic Club and MD-Chairman of Community House and Development (CHAD), an NGO. He even holds membership in various medical associations, and juggles a busy work day with multiple emails and responsibilities at the clinic. It is his exercise routine and spiritual quest that keeps him centred enough to power through his busy days.
“My day starts by 7.30 am and ends late — sometimes by midnight,” he says. But he doesn’t allow that to affect his essential rituals. As a child he would play football and basketball in Dubai, where he grew up. Later when he came to India for studies, he couldn’t join a sports club, but ensured that he was involved in some kind of sporting activity.
His running journey began a few years ago, when he participated in the Human Rights Day run organised by the Classic Road Runner’s Club. “I decided to become part of the club. We promote health through sports by conducting aerobics classes for people and continue to organise the Human Rights Day run.”
While he advocates sports to beat the stress of life, Dr Ansari is also a spiritual man. The divine texts of different religions are an important part of his morning. “I am a strong believer in God. Every morning I look for quotations from the holy writings. I have all of them. Each one has a kind of light which can guide you,” he believes. Late in the evening too, he finds solace in books, which help him “sleep better”.
It is these routines, that Dr Ansari follows without compromise, that streamline his life.

source: http://www.bangaloremirror.com / Bangalore Mirror / Home> Columns> Work / by Ayesha Tabassum, Bangalore Mirror Bureau / February 24th, 2014

Heritage marks this mosque

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Historical Links, Pre-Independence, Travel

It reminds one of the oldest mosque in Kerala in Calicut, maybe even in India – a quiet nondescript house sitting serenely in one of the most crowded areas in Mangalore called Bunder. We had been searching for it and so understated was it that we were directed to two other mosques before we actually found it.

The Zeenath Baksh Mosque is thousand years old / DH
The Zeenath Baksh Mosque is thousand years old / DH

Maybe we should have asked for Jumma Masjid for that is its other name. We went through bustling alleys and streets, most of whom had their own mosques, new ones with domes of different shades of glistening green domes and minarets.

Finally we reached Bunder. The street was lined with shops selling a plethora of goods ranging from groceries to bicycle parts. By sheer happenstance we asked a particular shop owner where this mosque was and he pointed next door to say” It’s here only”. Here? We were surprised as it seemed like just another house.

It is housed a little inside from the road. We were conspicuous by our presence, my friend and I, for there were hardly any women going in or out. A young man in a kurta pajama and white cap came forward and my friend asked if we could take a picture. He agreed instantly and asked if we would like to come inside. But he said, you will have to cover your heads. We agreed and he took us around , very patiently explaining to us its history.

He said that it was a thousand years old; Islam in Kanara dates back to the twelfth century, as it had become the regional center for thriving international trade with Africa and Arabia. There are purportedly letters from Cairo assumed to be from an Abraham Ben Yiju, a North African Jew who settled here for twenty years.

This was unlike the other fellow traders who came and went intermittently, but ultimately went back to their land of origin. These missives are part of the Genizah documents (so called because they were found in the Genizah which is the back room of a synagogue) prove the existence of trade between Africa and Arabia and India. Author Amitav Ghosh researched these scholarly documents for his story in his brilliant novel “In an Antique Land”.

In a similar fashion, Muslim Arab traders had a cordial relationship with the rulers of the western coastal belt of India. This is attested to also by the writing of Ibn Batuta, the intrepid North African traveller who passed through India in 1342 who estimates that the Muslims in this region amounted to 4000.

The Masjid Zaynath Baksh in Bunder is said to have been established in Mangalore in 644 A.D and was inaugurated in February 644 A.D.

In the seventeenth century, Tipu Sultan renovated the mosque adding beautifully carved rosewood pillars and also a carved ceiling. The mosque was renamed after his daughter Zeenat Baksh. The prayer hall is on a plinth with an open colonnade running around the building under heavy overhanging eaves. The renovation coexists in harmony with the older, more ancient structure.

Men were praying with quiet intensity, some standing with stretched hands and some were sitting and praying. I traced the curlicues  in the carved ornamentation of the pillars, standing solid and reassuring.

There is a pellucid ablution pool at the back and around the building is a cemetery.The façade of the mosque has green pillars supporting it.

Overall it gives the appearance of a dignified house of worship, providing a sacred sanctuary for both the dead and the living.

Maya Jayapal

source: http://www.deccanherald.com / Deccan Herald / Home> Supplements> Spectrum / by Maya Jayapal / February 25th, 2014

Media-savvy man of letters

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Green Initiatives / Environment, Nature

Science, environment, and literature are his passion. Afshan Yasmeen listens to him.

"My dream is to prepare a reader of Darwin's works." / The Hindu
“My dream is to prepare a reader of Darwin’s works.” / The Hindu

NATURE IS his inspiration. Biodiversity, flora, fauna, and tribal people cast a spell on him. A man of varied interests, he has authored several books on forest-related issues and wildlife conservation and scripted documentaries for noted wildlife photographers. K. Puttaswamy has been making waves in his own quiet way — as a writer who blends ecology with literature.

From being the Head of the Department of History of Sciences at the Kannada University in Hampi, he is now a communicator: he interacts with the media on a day-to-day basis as Public Relations Officer for the Bangalore Mahanagara Palike (BMP). He is an Assistant Director with the Department of Information and Publicity.Mr. Puttaswamy joined the Information Department in 1985 as an Information Assistant after a short stint in Kannada journalism. He worked with the Department of Forests, Ecology and Environment as a Scientific Officer and was then deputed to the Department of Backward Classes in the Devaraj Urs Research Institute and the Department of Youth Services and Sports till 2001.

He then joined the Kannada University, Hampi, as the head of the Department of History of Sciences. “The Department was created specifically to record Karnataka’s indigenous science practices (from pottery to ayurveda). Owing to lack of resource persons, we could only document the history of sciences, Karnataka’s environment and ecological hotspots”, he says.

Puttaswamy used to pen poems as a student but later realised that “kathe” and “kavana” (fiction and poetry) were not for him. In 1976, as a student at the University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS), GKVK in Bangalore, he became an active Socialist. “It was the turning point of my life.” He is now doing his Doctorate in Literature on “An Ecological Study in Kuvempu’s Literature”. Apart from authoring several books on science in nature such as Bangalooru, and Jeeva Jala, he has also translated the Origin of Species by Charles Darwin. “My English teacher, Akumal Ramachander, encouraged me to translate it. In fact, he introduced me to the world of literature and encouraged me to translate works of science into Kannada”, he explains.

His other translations include the Illustrated Encyclopaedia of Facts and Figures by Susan Bosanco, Charles Darwin by Anna Sproul, Alexander Fleming by Beverly Birch, and Nature’s Masterpiece — the Elephant by Ajay A. Desai. His translation of Iyaruingam by Birendra Kumara Bhattacharya is Janatheya Rajya. Jeeva Jaala won the Karnataka Sahitya Academy award in 1999 under the best science book category. Puttaswamy won the Karnataka State Environment Award in 2000.

Puttaswamy has also scripted many video documentary films directed by Krupakar and Senani, all dealing with forest-related issues, conservation of wildlife, and creating environmental awareness.These include “Tiger Lion Safari of Tyavarekoppa”, “Neeru Hakkigala Swarga”, “Hasarina Siri”, “Karnataka Pakshiloka”, “Karnataka Praniloka”, “Kalarava”, “A Journey through Moyar”, and “Hariva Nadige Ankusha”.

“Though several science writers, including paleontologist Stephen Jay Gould, inspire me, I want to translate Fruitjoy Capra’s Tao of Physicsand Eric Fromm’s Anatomy of Human Destructiveness into Kannada . But my dream is to prepare a reader (an abridged version) of Charles Darwin’s works by 2007,” he says.

By Afshan Yasmeen in Bangalore

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu Online / Home> Life Bangalore / Sunday – November 09th, 2003

CFTRI comes out with new Turmeric processing technology

Business & Economy, Science & Technology

TurmericBF21feb2014

Mysore :

Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI) had organised a demonstration to showcase a patented novel turmeric processing technology at its Food Engineering Department here today.

About 30 farmers from Chamarajanagar attended the demo held under the CSIR-800 initiative aimed to educate them on minimising the cost of processing turmeric with improved quality. Briefing the farmers, CSIR-800 Chief Scientist Dr. Renu Agarwal said that dozens of workers toiled in hot sun and near fire for at least one month to get turmeric dried, then get it milked to powder eventually costing Rs. 30,000 to Rs. 45,000 per tonne.

She added that the prolonged process invited microbial contamination and loss of colour. She said the CFTRI process was not only cost and time effective but improved the quality.

A demo was also given on production of Virgin Coconut Oil. Officials of NABARD, Horticulture and Integrated Child Development Scheme will interact.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> General News  / February 21st, 2014

Rotary midtown sports award presentation tomorrow

Records, All, Sports

AmarnathBF24feb2014

Mysore :

Rotary Mysore Midtown has organised a programme at Rotary Centre, JLB Road, tomorrow at 7 pm to presentation Rotary Midtown Sports Award-2014 to C.S. Amaranath, a Police Constable and an International Athlete.

Former Mayor N. Prakash will present the award.

About C.S. Amaranath: An International Athlete from the Police Department, C.S. Amarnath was born on July 15, 1969, as a third son to late. S. Subbanna and Gowramma couple, residing atop Chamundi Hill. Starting from his school days, along with education, he perused his passion for sports and participated in College, University and Open tournaments and won several prizes.

Amarnath joined Police Department in 1993 as a Constable and has served in various Police Stations in city and presently working in the Bomb Detection Squad. Since joining the Department till date, Amarnath has participated in many State and City-level Department Sports Meets and brought laurels by winning gold, silver and bronze medals. During the City Police Sports Meet in 2011, he ran 100 mts. race in 12.31 seconds and got the title ‘Sprint King.’

In 2012, he became the member of Mysore District Masters Athletic Club and since then has participated in numerous State, National and International Athletic Championships and won many awards.

He is also a Handball player and has participated in State, National and Dasara Handball tournaments. He has won 12 gold, 3 silver and 3 bronze medals participating in State Masters Athletic Championship from 2007-2012; 2 bronze and 1 silver medal in the 28th Natl. Masters Athletic Meet, Jaipur.

He was runner in the team which ran with the Queens Baton (Torch) which came to Mysore before the 2010 CWG held at Delhi; In 2010, he participated in 31st Masters Athletic Meet held at Chennai and won bronze. In 2010, Amarnath represented India in the 16th Asian Masters Athletic Meet held at Kuala Lumpur and won gold in relay; In 2012, participated in 33rd Masters Athletic Meet in Bangalore and won silver in 4 X 100 relay; In 2012, represented country in the 26th Open Athletic Championship held at Sri Lanka in 100 mts., 200 mts. and long jump. He has the support of International Athlete M.P. Chandrashekar, Senior and Junior Police officers of his Dept., his elder brother C.S. Vishwanath, sister-in-law Pankaja and wife Shailasri.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> General News / February 18th, 2014

‘ I will strive to uphold the interest of Anglo Indians’ , says MLA Vinisha Nero

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Historical Links, Pre-Independence, Leaders, Records, All, World Opinion

 

(from left): Former President of the Anglo Indian Association-Mysore, Richard Sherwood, Association President Henry Dove, Anglo Indian MLA Vinisha Nero, Association Secretary G.A. Edwards and Lawrence Nero at a function held at St. Philomena’s High School in city on Sunday.
(from left): Former President of the Anglo Indian Association-Mysore, Richard Sherwood, Association President Henry Dove, Anglo Indian MLA Vinisha Nero, Association Secretary G.A. Edwards and Lawrence Nero at a function held at St. Philomena’s High School in city on Sunday.

Mysore :

“I will strive to uphold the interests of the community, work from the grassroot level, represent the community with their problems and uphold the culture of the community,” said Vinisha Nero, the newly-nominated Anglo Indian MLA here on Sunday.

Speaking at a programme organised by The All India Anglo Indian Association-Mysore Branch, at St. Philomena’s High School here, she said that having been brought up with middle class values had helped her to understand the importance of education, respect for elders, integrity and hard work.

Stating that a helpful nature and high aspirations were her fortitude, she added that she was humbled and honoured to accept this position, to serve the Anglo-Indian community and further contribute to the greatness of the State and the country.

Vinisha called upon the youth to respect elders as they were the guiding force behind them and also asked them not to get tired of working and learning as it takes them to greater heights.

She also called upon every one to give respect to their mother tongue and other languages too.

Henry Dove, President, All India Anglo Indian Association Mysore Branch, speaking to Star of Mysore, said that Vinisha Nero had an experience of 31 years in the Administrative field from small beginnings, worked hard and progressed in her career.

He further said that Vinisha had worked in top MNCs like Microsoft, Cisco, Capital One, Clutch Group, besides personally managing the visit of Bill Gates during his visit to Bangalore and added that her job had given her experience in dealing with people at all levels, solving problems, being a team player and a facilitator.

Former President of the Association, Richard Sherwood, said that Vinisha has served in various positions in The All India Anglo Indian Association and the Boards of Managements of various prestigious educational institutions.

Secretary of the Association G.A. Edwards, Lawrence Nero (husband of Vinisha Nero) and other committee members were present on the occasion.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> General News / February 18th, 2014

Samskruthi-Women Sphere formed in city

Business & Economy
A group photo of Samskruthi-Women Sphere members with the guests during the inaugural function.
A group photo of Samskruthi-Women Sphere members with the guests during the inaugural function.

Mysore :

Indian women are thought to be home-makers, care-takers, responsible for the family and children, but they are never seen as leaders, change-makers, or the drivers of economic engine. It is time for the Indian women to emerge from the shadow and make a mark for themselves.

Samskruthi-Women Sphere, an organisation formed by 20 like-minded women to bring a change in society, was inaugurated at a function held at The Quorum Hotel in city on Feb.12. Their motto is to do service, women empowerment, motivate women in business and self employment. After the inauguration, the organisation enrolled 217 members. The organisation helps women entrepreneurs by conducting exhibitions and displaying their products in public; contact rural women who manufacture in small groups and help them by giving place in the exhibitions; conduct programmes for the professional up-gradation of women. It also intends to serve mentally challenged children and promote education for girl child in rural areas.

On the eve of the inauguration, Samskruthi-Women Sphere adopted a specially abled child ‘Aishwarya,’ from ‘Swasahaya Samuchaya,’ who lost her father and whose mother is unemployed.

Samskruthi-Women Sphere is a non-aided organisation. Women who are interested to join hands with this organisation may contact President Sridevi S. Bhoopalam on Mob: 98452-32269; Secretary Nanda Lokesh on Mob: 98448-45028 or Treasurer Archana Basavaraj on Mob: 94801-90666.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> General News / February 18th, 2014