MUST ATTEND: MUMBAI LITFEST

WHAT: Tata Literature Live! The Mumbai LitFest
WHEN: October 31 (today) to November 4
WHERE: National Centre of Performing Arts (NCPA).
EVENTS: Panel discussions, book launches, workshops, theatre performances and poetry readings
WHAT'S NEW: This year, Literature Live! has introduced a series of workshops on subjects like food and travel writing, poetry, fiction, memoirs and others. Story writing, story telling and story sketching workshops for children between 7 and 14 years.

PERSONALITIES: WRITERS:
Jeet Thayil of Narcopolis fame; Kiran Nagarkar (Ravan and Eddie); Ashok Banker of the Indian mythological epic-Ramayana fame; Shashi Tharoor, a savvy politician and prolific author; Shobhaa De, journalist, TV serial writer and author; Nilanjana Roy, columnist, blogger and author of The Wildings, Dileep Padgaonkar, journalist and author of Under her spell; Mariane Pearl of A Mighty Heart fame; and Chetan Bhagat, of Five Point Someone and 2 states.

POETS: Arvind Krishna Mehrotra, creative editor and author of Middle earth and other poetry collections; Arundhati Subramaniam, journalist and author of Sadhguru: More Than a Life.

INTERNATIONAL GUEST LIST:
Pakistani writers Mohd Hanif, Moni Mohsin; English poets Glynn Maxwell and Padel; American psychologist James Fallon and British poet Ruth Padel, the writer of The Mara Crossing .

PERFORMANCES:
Hip-hop Shakespeare by The Hip Hop Shakespeare Company; Thurber and Seth’s Animals by Naseeruddin Shah, Chris Larner’s poignant play, An Instinct for Kindness, Interpreting Tagore by Astad Deboo Dance Company; Hayavadana by Black Boxers & Industrial Theatre Co.
LOG ON: For the detailed schedule, visit www.litlive.in, or www.facebook.com/litlive.
REGISTRATION: Free and on first come first serve basis.

Comic Con 2 gets filmy tadka

Comic Con 2 gets filmy tadka

For the second edition of the Mumbai Film and Comics Convention (MFCC), organisers Comic Con India decided to give the much-loved event a filmy twist. Filmmakers, graphic novelists, illustrators and over 20,000 comic lovers thronged to the World Trade Centre in Cuffe Parade for the two-day festival. On the first day, author and artist Abid Surti launched the latest issue of his Indian Comic Journal. Draupadi, the latest in the mythological series by Campfire, was also launched, alongside 10 other books from the silver jubilee special edition of Nagraj and Dhruva by Raj Comics. “We wanted to do something special for this year’s Comic Con. It is the perfect platform for us to meet comic lovers,” said Manish Gupta, Raj Comics. Apart from comics, films were an integral part of this year’s Comic Con. Veteran director Kundan Shah spoke about his hit comedy Jaane Bhi Do Yaaron on its 30th anniversary. Actors Shazahn Padamsee, Jiah Khan, Rajat Barmecha and Ayushmann Khurrana also made their presence felt. Several graphic novelists also launched their books at the event. “Comics are no longer just illustrated versions of Hindu mythology. There are newer characters, interesting stories and great illustrations. They are no longer meant only for children,” said Abhijeet Kini, who launched his self-published comic Angry Maushi at the MFCC. Marvel and DC Comics, among others, had set up their own stalls. “Everybody had a wonderful time. The merchandise as well as the interactive sessions were a great hit,” said Jatin Varma, founder, Comic Con India.

Where to lodge complaints against taxi drivers?

Commuters get short shrift

The third hike in auto and taxi fare in a year has not only burdened citizens, but also frustrated them as drivers continue to refuse short fare. The state government is sitting on numerous complaints, making daily travel worse. Rajendra Aklekar highlights the problems of the transport department which has failed to come up with solutions to make Mumbaikars’ commute hassle-free

Rajesh Shah, 41, a resident of Dadar (East), was frantically trying to hail a taxi for more than half an hour near the Dadar flyover. He had to take his mother to a doctor in Mahim. Standing with his old and ailing mother, he stopped more than eight taxis but they refused. Some sped past while others gave excuses that they were going in the other direction. The traffic constable at the junction was of no help. The only advice he gave Shah was to get in a cab even if the driver refuses. Finally, a taxi driver obliged. Shah was not only late for the appointment, but had to struggle the same way on his way back. “I tried dialling for cabs, but they were not helpful,” said a frustrated Shah. Shah represents the average Mumbaikar, who does not have a redress mechanism. There are helplines and e-mail IDs to file a complaint but no solution to the problem. Maharashtra RTO, a failure Chief minister Prithviraj Chavan heads the transport department but seems to have failed miserably in solving the persistent problem. “The transport department has been listening to the grievances of auto and taxi unions and giving them fare hikes. But, it has not come up with a foolproof mechanism to help citizens,” says Ajay Deshmukh, a commuter. On October 5, the state government permitted hikes in autorickshaw and taxi fares — the third time in a year — to preempt a strike threatened by 55,000 taximen in the city. “The explanation for fare hike does not hold water because all cabs and autos in Mumbai run on CNG, whose price has been more or less steady,” says Vandana Shirsat, a government employee, whose daily ride to the station in share-a-cab has become costlier. The government said the hike has been fixed in accordance with a state government-approved formula. Weak citizen representation? A senior transport department official says the chief minister should be serious about complaints and fill up vacancies in the department. “The government has been prompt in solving the grievances of automen and cabbies but why is it ignoring the commuters’ grievances? Every time the issue comes up, officials cite the same reason that the Regional Transport Office (RTO) and the enforcement department are understaffed,” he said. He cited the lack of a strong commuters’ representative. “The same old consumer organisations have been representing the citizens. There is a need for more aggression and perspective,” says the senior transport department official. The real problem There are many like Shah who feel helpless and frustrated as there is no immediate redress mechanism. “You are expected to face the inconvenience, go home and then mail or e-mail your complaint. You end up documenting the complaint, without hoping for a solution,” Shah says. Citizens cannot expect the traffic police to help them as they too are facing staff shortage. There are only 2,696 policemen — including 153 officers — to man 20 lakh vehicles in Mumbai. This alarming statistics has been ignored and could be the major reason for lawlessness and rising number of accidents. “No wonder, complaints against cab and auto refusing fare get less priority as there are not enough people to manage the traffic,” says Deshmukh. Sources said the proposal to increase the strength of the traffic police is with the home department, which is yet to act on it. More issues Not only staff crunch, but a lack of basic infrastructure has hit the Regional Transport Offices’ (RTOs) work. The RTO has three offices in Mumbai — for south and central Mumbai, for eastern and north eastern suburbs and the third for the western suburbs. The offices are either in a rented place, open barrack (Andheri RTO) or an old British horse stable (the Tardeo RTO). The three RTOs that register thousands of vehicles every year, issue licences, monitor the city’s transport system and get revenue of hundreds of crores are housed in dilapidated structures. When the department’s computerisation began a few years ago, the National Informatics Centre, the government’s IT wing, deemed the Tardeo structure unfit. The Mumbai Central office, that registers MH01 vehicles, is housed in a long row of sheds. The Andheri office, which registers MH02 numbers in the western and north western suburbs, operates from a dilapidated structure. A driving test track and a posh building promised a few years ago are stuck in a scam. The Wadala office, that looks after the eastern and north eastern suburbs and registers numbers MH03, has similar problems. ‘’All three offices are in a shambles. They have become a dumping ground for scrapped vehicles and gadgets,’’ says an RTO inspector on condition of anonymity. The 2012 statistics reveal that Mumbai has around 20 lakh vehicles registered from the ‘three dump yards of scrap’. Mumbai’s fourth RTO, MH-47, is only on paper despite being formally announced and declared in the official state statistics. The Borivli RTO office has been unable to start operations due to staff crunch and space. The solution Consumer activist and member of Citizen Transport Committee Jitendra Gupta says they should move the court over the problems and forward them to the Centre, although it seldom responds. “Citizens can start registering their complaints with the consumer grievance cell and the Union transport ministry,” says Gupta. Activist Nitin Joshi too suggests taking the grievances to the Centre. “The Centre will at least know that there is something wrong with the Maharashtra transport department. Courts are another option. But it is high time citizens took up their own battle,” says Joshi. Until the government comes up with a solution, commuters like Shah will keep suffering. “It is a sad situation. Even after the fare hike, cabbies and automen cheat commuters and the officials cannot tackle it. We will have to fight it ourselves,” said Shah.

YOUR CITY YOUR DAY

YOUR CITY YOUR DAY

EVENT
Attend a free beginners’ session of three-step rhythmic breathing, an ancient system of breathing which comes from the yogasutra of Sage Patanjali. This technique was hidden within the guru-shishya parampara for centuries till it began to be taught in public by Shri SN Tavaria in the 1980s. The session will be an introduction to this ancient system of self-realisation and will include the teaching of the six refining exercises.
When: October 20
Where: Health Education Library for People, 206, Dr DN Road, National Insurance Building, ground floor, Fort
Timing: 3.30pm to 5.30pm
Contact: 9920990985

Artists Satyajeet Varekar and Santaji Chougule will display their recent thematic work in the form of paintings and sculptures in an exhibition, ‘Cultural Prosperity.’This unique presentation of creative artwork will render a rare opportunity to art lovers to enjoy the subtle nuances of the thematic splendour in the relevant perspectives of visual arts.
When: October 16 to 22
Where: Nehru Centre Art Gallery, Discovery of India Building, Worli
Timing: 11am to 7pm
Contact: 9860207099 / 9850835507

Italian food festival: Godrej Nature’s Basket has organisesd an Italian food fiesta. The store will host a cooking demonstration in association with Olive Bar & Kitchen. Chef Thomas will demonstrate and share the many facets of Italian cuisine.
When: October 20
Where: Olives, Bandra
Timing: 4.30pm to 6pm

Photography workshop: Learn concepts of digital photography, such as resolutions, pixels, sensors, histograms, raw/jpeg work-flow with outdoor portraits, macro and art photography, to practice photography as hobby/career. This workshop will be conducted under the guidance of internationally honoured art photographer and practicing professional Vinay Parelkar, and Ambika Mehra, national awardee photo-artist.
When: October 20 & 21
Where: 15, Hamzu Terrace, Gokhale Road, Dadar
Timing: 9:30am to 6:30 pm
Contact: 98201 47993 / 98198 63141
Website: www.vineyephotoschool.com

Women can get free complete cancer screening, including automated breast volume scanning, mammography and PAP smear test, by a gynaecologist.
When: Ongoing till end of October (Except Sundays)
Where: Jaslok Hospital, Peddar Road
Contact: 8108762626, 022 66573034 to fix appointments
Solo art exhibition: Artist Shyam Landge is holding a solo and exclusive exhibition of his works entitled ‘Variant Horizons’
When: Till October 23 (except Sunday)
Where: Cymroza Art Gallery, 72, Bhulabhai Desai Road
Timing: 11am to 7pm
Contact: 23671983

Ayushakti Ayurved Health Centre is organising a free pulse reading camp for patients suffering from health issues like breathing problems, arthritis, diabetes, psoriasis, back pain, obesity, high blood pressure and others.
When: October 18
Where: Mukhi Mansion, Below Oriental Bank of Commerce, Pawai chowk, Ulhasnagar
Timing: 10am to 8pm
Contact: 25125666 05 / 06 to register

The Royal Society of Chemistry, Institute of Chemical Technology and the British Council are hosting the first ChemCareers India next week. The career fair will include talks on topics such as careers for women in chemical sciences, a world of flavours and fragrances, emerging areas in personal care, new careers in green chemistry, etc. It will also include a soft skills workshop on resume writing and tips for interviews. Free entry.
When: October 20
Where: ICT, Nathalal Parekh Marg, Matunga, adjacent to VJTI and Khalsa College
Timing: 9am to 5.30pm
Visit http://my.rsc.org/chemcareers/india for registration

Atharva Clinic is organising a free hearing check up camp for all those suffering from hearing problems. Hearing aids will be provided at a concessional rate.
When: October 18 & 19
Where: Borivli (West)
Timing: 10 am to 5pm
Contact: 9920857271 for registration

FURNITURE SALE

FURNITURE SALE IN JUHU NEXT WEEK

Kelebec, an Alibaug-based outdoor living store is hosting a pop-up shop at the Rotary Service Centre on Juhu Tara Road, from October 17 to October 21.

You can buy coffee tables, dining tables, sofa sets, pool loungers, outdoor beds, giant urns and stone water fountains at sale prices. For more information, visit www.kelebec.com, call 021-41247707 or email info@kelebec.com.

All you wanted to know about the DLF-Vadra deal

All you wanted to know about the DLF-Vadra deal

Several leaders of the Congress party have termed the accusations being made by Arvind Kejriwal-led India Against Corruption (IAC) against Robert Vadra as cheap publicity. Rashid Alvi on Tuesday even questioned the veracity of the documents put out by Kejriwal and company. But a detailed look at the balance sheets of the companies owned by Vadra and statements made by DLF throw up several questions. Vadra is the son-in-law of Sonia Gandhi, the president of the Congress party, and chairperson of the United Progressive Alliance which governs this country. DLF is India’s largest listed real estate company. How does DLF justify giving Vadra an advance of Rs 50 crore? Robert Vadra owns 99.8% of Sky Light Hospitality Private Ltd. The balance sheet of the company as on March 31, 2009, shows an entry of a plot of land in Manesar, Haryana, valued at Rs15.38 crore. This means that somewhere during the period April 1, 2008, to March 31, 2009, the company must have bought this piece of land for Rs 15.38 crore. This can be concluded because the balance sheet for March 31, 2008, does not show this entry. Vadra’s Sky Light Hospitality got an advance of Rs50 crore against this land from DLF. The company says this in a statement released on October 6. “Skylight Hospitality Pvt Ltd approached us in FY 2008-09 (i.e. the period between April 1, 2008 and March 31, 2009) to sell a piece of land measuring approximately 3.5 acres...DLF agreed to buy the said plot, given its licensing status and its attractiveness as a business proposition for a total consideration of Rs58 crores. As per normal commercial practice, the possession of the said plot was taken over by DLF in FY 2008-09 itself and a total sum of Rs50 crores given as advance in installments against the purchase consideration.” This statement tells us that Vadra’s Sky Light Hospitality approached DLF to sell a piece of land of 3.5acres sometime during the period April 1, 2008 and March 31,2009. DLF agreed to buy this land and valued it at Rs 58 crore. Against this valuation it gave Sky Light Hospitality an advance of Rs 50 crore. What is interesting is that Sky Light bought a piece of land for Rs15.38 crore anytime between April 1, 2008 and March 31, 2009. They approached DLF to buy it during the same period. And DLF agreed to buy it for Rs 58 crore. So in a period of less than one year the value of the land went up by Rs 42.62 crore (Rs 58 crore – Rs 15.38 crore) or 277%. This doesn’t really sound right given that it was precisely at that point of time the international financial crisis was starting and both real estate as well as stock markets were weak. Did DLF really complete take over the land plot in the financial year 2008-2009 (the period between April 1, 2008 and March 31, 2009)? DLF’s statement says very clearly that it took over the possession of the land in 2008-2009 from Sky Light Hospitality. If that was the case why does this land show up as a fixed asset in the balance sheet of Vadra’s Sky Light Hospitality as on March 31, 2011? Even the advance of Rs50 crore given by DLF shows up as a current liability on the balance sheet of Sky Light Hospitality. How could the land be with both Vadra and DLF at the same time? This is something that DLF needs to throw light on. Was DLF’s advance to Vadra’s Sky Light Hospitality really an interest free loan? DLF’s statement says very clearly that the company started giving the advance amounting to a total of Rs 50 crore to Vadra starting in the year 2008-2009. This advance was still on the books of Sky Light Hospitality as on March 31, 2011, listed as a current liability. A current liability is a debt or an obligation which is to be repaid within a period of less than one year. Interestingly there is another entry of an advance of Rs 10 crore from DLF which is there on the balance sheets of Sky Light Hospitality dated March 31, 2010 and March 21, 2009. This is again an advance which was given for a period of greater than one year. DLF in its statement also claimed not to have given any loans to Vadra. Real Earth Estates Private Ltd, another company owned by Vadra shows an entry of Rs 5 crore as a loan from DLF as on March 31, 2010. The IAC media release points out that the company in a filing with Registrar of Companies had specified that this was an unsecured loan. An unsecured loan is a loan in which the lender does not take any collateral against the loan and relies on the borrower’s promise to return the loan. There are two conclusions that one can draw here. One is that what DLF thinks is an advance looks more like an interest free loan to Vadra. And two, its claim of not having given any loans to Vadra don’t hold good. What did Vadra do with these so called advances and real loans? Sky Light Hospitality had a Rs 25 crore advance from DLF on its books as on March 31, 2009. A small portion of this was used to pick up a stake of 50% in a hotel joint venture with DLF. This company called Saket Courtyard Hospitality runs one hotel in Saket, New Delhi, which is reported to be on the block. Sky Light Hospitality shows an advance received of Rs 50 crore from DLF as on March 31, 2010. During the course of the year April 1, 2009 to March 31, 2010, the company paid a total tax deducted source of Rs 4.95 lakh on the interest earned on its fixed deposits. TDS is cut at the rate of 10.3% when the interest earned on fixed deposits with a bank during the course of one year crosses Rs 10,000. What this tells us is that Sky Light Hospitality earned Rs 48.3 lakh (Rs 4.95 lakh/10.3%) as total interest. This interest obviously was earned out of investing a part of Rs 50 crore which the company received as an advance from DLF during the financial year 2009-2010 into bank fixed deposits. Sky Light Hospitality also gave out advances and loans to other companies owned by Robert Vadra. As on March 31, 2010, Sky Light Hospitality had given a loan of Rs 6.61 crore to Sky Light Reality Private Ltd, another company owned by Vadra. This was used to fund seven flats in DLF’s Magnolias project and which are shown to be worth around Rs 5.23 crore. It was also used to buy a Rs 89 lakh apartment in DLF’s Aralias apartments. The balance sheet as on March 31, 2009, shows an advance of Rs 3.5 crore to Sky Light Realty Private Ltd. This advance was used by Sky Light Realty to fund agricultural land in Palwal and land at Hayyatpur in Haryana. It also used around Rs 9 lakh to book flats with two builders. Sky Light Reality also earned an interest of around Rs 31 lakh by placing a part of this advance as a fixed deposit with banks. Vadra’ Real Earth Estates had a total paid up capital of Rs 10 lakh as on March 31, 2010. DLF gave the company a loan of Rs 5 crore. This means the debt equity ratio of the company was 50 (Rs 5 crore/Rs10 lakh) which is humongous. This money was used to part-fund fixed assets worth around Rs 7.1 crore. This includes a plot in the posh GK-II area of Delhi and land in Bikaner, Gurgaon, Hassanpur and Mewat. Whether DLF benefited with its relationship with Vadra we don’t really know. But Vadra clearly benefited from the same.

YOUR DAY YOUR CITY

YOUR DAY YOUR CITY

EVENT JS Gallery presents Absolute Lustrum, an exhibition of paintings by five artists: Dhananjay Thakur, Kiran Chopra, Subrata Sen,Ved Prakash, Vijender Sharma. The works on display will showcase the artists’ respective specialities and subtle nuances in their recent works. This exhibition will enable art lovers to enjoy vivid art forms and expressive art works covering realistic, figurative and associated facets of visual arts. When: October 7 to 13 Where: JS Art Gallery, Santa Cruz (West) Timing: 11am to 7pm Contact: 9821409569 / 9619835058 Website:www.jsartgallery.com Jehangir Art Gallery presents Sensuous Splendour, an exhibition of paintings by Mumbai-based artist Parsharam Sutaar. His unique and picturesque works will truly enlighten all art lovers in the respective arenas and visual perspectives. The present series of artwork mostly highlights the depictions of our rich heritage and cultural traditions at several monumental places in an artistic and expressive style. When: October 9 to 15 Where: Jehangir Art Gallery, Kala Ghoda Timing: 11am to 7pm Contact: 9869170967 Mystic Circle Tarot, Runes, Angels classes presents a unique workshop spread over six Sundays to master the art of tarot reading. When: From October 7 Contact: 9930238289 Timings:1pm to 3pm Gujarati play Maro Piyu Gayo Rangoon: A musical adaptation of William Shakespeare’s All’s Well That Ends Well, the play is set in Saurashtra, Mumbai, and Rangoon in the early 1900s. In the small town of Rasoli, Heli loves the young Bharatram, and when she cures his uncle merchant prince Rao Bahadur Gokuldas of TB, she claims Bharatram as her reward. But her brand new husband, flying from Heli to Rangoon, attaches two obstructive conditions to their marriage, conditions he is sure will never be met. Written by Mihir Bhuta, produced and directed by Sunil Shanbag, music by Uday Mazumdar When: October 14 Where: Nehru, Worli Timing: 3.30pm Hindi play Kiss Kiss Ko Pyaar Karun: This is the story of a loving married bickering couple, that has begun to feel the itch’ in their marriage. The husband’s restlessness, monotony of routine-life and his roving eye leads to a comedy of errors and certain realizations. Written by Amit Aaryan and directed by Sunil Prem Vyas When: October 14 Where: Rangsharda, Bandra Timing: 8pm

THE BEST DESIGN PRACTICES ARE THE ONES THAT ARE DESIGNED IN HARMONY WITH NATURE, SAYS NISHA SHROFF

NATURALLY INCLINED

THE BEST DESIGN PRACTICES ARE THE ONES THAT ARE DESIGNED IN HARMONY WITH NATURE, SAYS NISHA SHROFF

    Following an eco-friendly design expands the natural horizons in terms of durability, utility and comfort. Increasingly, architects are making an effort where they can mainly preserve and protect vital resources such as water, land and energy. They are adopting different techniques, regenerating the energy with their design strategies.
    The importance of eco-friendly architecture in a city like Mumbai is immense and tapping the natural sources of energy is an effective approach. For example, many architects are promoting designs that revolve around using the abundantly available solar energy. It not only saves energy but also eliminates the electricity cost.
    Architect Amit Walavalkar of Adorn Space Concepts Pvt Ltd believes that one must factor in the surrounding elements while designing a project. He says, "Along with designing a good product, it is also beneficial to use alternate energy resources as they translate into energy savings for the client. We also recommend our clients have more plantations around their surroundings, plant more trees, build sparrow shelters on trees to give birds the comfort and create a natural habitat."
    It is equally important to ensure that the materials, designs and products that are used in an ecofriendly construction are strictly taken care of. Jimmy Mistry, Chairman and MD, Della Tecnica says, "Mumbai is extremely exploited and also an over- exploited city. The only way to repair and mend it is through sustainable development and with minimal use of materials that harm humans and nature. Della Enclave at Lonavala is one of our ecofriendly projects. The material used is ecofriendly with minimum power consumption. Instead of using wood, we should use certified wood and fabrics from sustainable forests and basic designs that suit the environment. Reducing cement work can be of great help." For eco-friendly development, rain water harvesting is also an essential component as it not only enables one to save water but also to re-use it for several daily chores. Sustainable architecture must conserve and restore the natural balance. Using concepts like solar energy and rain water harvesting have become a necessity and architects are playing their part in making the two ends meet.
Fast Fact IT IS BENEFICIAL TO USE ALTERNATE ENERGY RESOURCES AS THEY TRANSLATE INTO SUBSTANTIAL ENERGY SAVINGS

Sangram Singh - Indian Wrestler And Actor

Sangram Singh

Indian Wrestler And Actor

    The environment is our area of habitat. We all enjoy our health due to the healthy environment we live in, the fresh air we breathe in, the clean water we get, so it's a protective chamber where mankind regenerates itself. Just like we need air, food and water to live, we need a clean environment to live healthy too.
    We keep our homes clean, our bathrooms and cupboards and everything that belongs to us. Similarly we need to protect and keep our environment clean too. We can learn to save water, dispose of wet and dry waste separately and seriously urge the government for a recycle plan to clean our rivers. Completely avoid the use of any form of plastic as it is non-biodegradable and very harmful for our environment. Noise pollution needs to be controlled too. Smoke from vehicles causing air pollution needs to be checked on regular intervals.
    I save water at home and at my work place. I celebrated Ganesh Chaturthi with my girlfriend Payal and used eco-friendly Ganeshji in an environment-friendly manner. I never throw any garbage out on the streets from my car, never accept plastic bags and when once in a while we go grocery shopping we carry jute bags.
    I would advise people to maintain the environment for future generations or else it will be left in very hazardous living conditions. The environment is a bigger version of our home.

Property related questions

I own a plot in a joint name with my wife (housewife with no income). Now I am planning to sell it off. My queries are:
• From the sales proceeds, can I buy two separate flats in two different cities without attracting long-term capital gain tax?
• Instead of buying a new property, we want to keep the amount in bank/bonds to be used in the future. How do we go about this and for how long should we avoid long-term capital gain tax?
    Selling a plot would mean tax liability in respect of long-term Capital Gains. Assuming that the plot has been held by you for quite a long time either sell the plot, pay Capital Gains tax and keep the money invested in a bank fixed deposit for old age or in the alternative you and your wife, as you are co-owners, can buy two separate flats in two separate cities and avoid payment of long-term Capital Gains. The final answer will depend upon your age, your current income and your obligations with regard to buying a property in your name. Please screen all these points and only then take a decision to buy or not to buy. 

 
As an individual if I buy a commercial property (office space), will the rental income from it be treated as income from house property or from business and profession? What are the applicable taxes and deductions from such income? Do any of the banks provide loan to an NRI who wishes to buy commercial property?
    In respect of letting out commercial property, the rental income will be treated as income from house property. You will get deduction in respect of payment of house tax and also a 30 percent standard deduction will be available to you. If any loan has been taken on this property, the interest on the commercial property loan will also be allowed to be deducted in full without any upper limit. Regarding whether the bank is giving loan to the NRI or not, please get in touch with the relevant bank. 


 
I am planning to buy a 2BHK flat for my son. The price is Rs 90 lakh. My son has just completed one year in service and is not eligible for a housing loan for more than Rs 15 lakh. I am willing to give him Rs 45 lakh from my side. I am a retired man. If I arrange to pay the full amount now and register the flat in my name, can he take a loan after five or six years and pay me Rs 45 lakh back? How does he go about the loan at that time or can I register the flat now in my and my son's name jointly? If so can he still get a housing loan after 5 or 6 years and pay me back his share? Please advise.
    Under the Income-tax Law there is no problem if you give the loan to your son. If you like, you may give loan or you may make a gift. However, from the tax planning point of view it is better to give a loan to your son and later he may even like to buy this flat from you. However, please discuss the matter with your son in detail and only then take a decision. 


 
Shall Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) be deducted in case of an NRI selling his/ her property to Indian resident? Is it the buyer's liability? Please advise on the following:
• How can a buyer deposit TDS on behalf of seller without TIN?
• What if the seller has already invested capital gains in India elsewhere before (1 year) transaction/ transfers his property?
• What shall be ideally done to ensure a smooth deal?
• What are the sections to be referred?
    Yes, it is the duty of the buyer to deduct the tax at source. Under the new provision no TIN Number is required for this purpose. Even if Capital Gains have been invested, still tax will have to be deducted at source. It is expected very shortly new rules in this respect will be issued by the Government.

HAWARE BUILDERS - RNA CORP - RAJESH LIFESPACES - RUNWAL GROUP

HAWARE BUILDERS
    Haware Engineers & Builders Private Limited was established in 1994. The company is a privately owned real estate development, construction and marketing company with offices in Navi Mumbai, Mumbai and Thane. The company ranks one of the topmost among the leading builders and developers in Navi Mumbai, Mumbai and Thane area. Their portfolio includes residential projects, commercial complexes, infotech parks, shopping malls, multiplexes and townships; more than 125 projects and 40 million square feet area in aggregate, along with hundreds of acres of residential and commercial land under various stages of planning and development.
    The Group has established a name for itself in the real estate market for quality construction. It has always adopted the latest technology and innovations for continuous improvement.
    Haware Builders’ on-going residential projects are Haware Citi and Haware Estate at Ghodbunder Road, Thane offering 1, 2 and 3 BHK flats. Nirmiti at Khandeshwar, Navi Mumbai has 1, 2 BHK flats and shops. Haware's on-going commercial projects are Centurion at Nerul (E), Fanatasia and Haware Infotech Park at Vashi.
    With the ISO-9001-2008 quality certificate awarded by American Quality Assessors (AQA), the company has acquired a unique position in the housing industry.
    Some awards conferred on Haware Builders are: Yashasri Puraskar by Maharashtra Times, Glory of India Award - Delhi, International Excellence Award by Institute of Economic Studies, Entrepreneurial Excellence Award, Udyog Shree Gaurav Award, Nirmiti Award by Rotary International Dist. 3140, Artists in Concrete Award, The Award of Excellency by Saturday Club, to name a few. 

 
RNA CORP
    Established in 1981, RNA Corp is one of Mumbai's leading property development companies with a large land bank and strong financials. RNA Corp's core strength lies in the residential and mixed-use development, with a balanced mix of open plot and redevelopment projects.
    Known for its innovative design philosophy, every project at RNA unveils a new design aspect with the association of renowned designer and architects. The company's industry expertise and knowledge of the local markets, coupled with its unfailing focus on customer satisfaction has today resulted in its impeccable reputation and track record of performance. RNA Corp is prominently involved in the redevelopment of projects in a strategic manner with design aesthetics and modern amenities to meet expectations of the customers.
    At RNA Corp, delivering projects of superior quality, within the budget and on time, has been the cornerstone of its stringent performance standards. In the last 10 years, the company has successfully developed 10 million sq.ft. of residential, commercial and mixed-use real estate, while substantial development is in the pipeline all across the Mumbai.
    A visionary in the real estate industry, the group chairman Anil Aggarwal brings modernisation for RNA Corp. His passion for development of concepts and innovation has contributed immensely to the company's growth.
    Anil Aggarwal is assisted in the management by Anubhav Aggarwal - Managing Director, RNA Corp who handles Operations and Marketing. Gokul Aggarwal - Joint Managing Director - RNA Corp with his focused approach towards control and monitoring of procedures in execution, also works closely with the chairman to contribute to the company's growth.
    RNA Corp guarantees the desired
quality of building with the requisite infrastructure constructed features. Every project from RNA Corp is a landmark in its own right and stands testimony to the strong bond of trust and confidence that it enjoys with its customers.
    Their projects are distinguished by the location with proximity to social infrastructure and commercial districts. The properties are targeted towards customers in the upper-mid and high income group, and hence designed with aesthetics and lifestyle elements. The developments are accomplished through redevelopment or regeneration process in the island city of Mumbai, and construction on land banks in suburban locations. 

 RAJESH LIFESPACES
    The name changes, the values continue. Rajesh Builders is now Rajesh LifeSpaces.
    The Group is celebrating their 50th anniversary with a new name and a new brand identity while retaining the cornerstone of legacy - values. As one of the Mumbai's prestigious developers with over 50 years of legacy and a rock solid reputation of adding value to the city's skyline, the task of changing the name was never easy. Yet they did it. A move that conclusively shows their commitment to be ever relevant to the time, the industry and most of all, their customers.
    Over the years, they have built a legacy that stems from decades of experience, moulded by timeless principles and driven by an abiding trust in the future. They have been following the simple philosophy of integrity and earning acclaim for the way they honour their commitments and adherence to the business ethics. Till date, the Group has developed property of over 5 million sq. ft. in the western and the central suburbs of Mumbai. From sprawling residential complexes across the city, opulent commercial properties in Bhandup and Vikhroli, a five-star hotel in Powai to a dream resort in Karjat, they have forayed far beyond the realm of conventional construction.
    The name Rajesh Lifespaces celebrates both, their legacy and their ability to create future-ready spaces, because they believe that life is a series of moments, memories, and discoveries. Each one more challenging and more rewarding than the one before. They believe that today, life is increasingly determined by the dynamics of the space that surrounds us. It shapes our lives and enhances our physical, intellectual, emotional and spiritual well-being. This understanding inspires them to create spaces that nurture, shape and celebrate life.  

RUNWAL GROUP
    The Runwal Group, a leading player in construction and retail business, was established in 1978 by its visionary founder and chairman - Subhash .S. Runwal. A C.A. by qualification but a true humanitarian; a visionary who lives by the principle of "nothing is impossible with hard work, sincerity and farsightedness". Under his guidance and support, the Runwal Group, a Mumbai based organisation, has widened its arena from construction of properties to now development and management of malls. The group has the largest retail chain in Mumbai with over two million sq.ft. of GLA and footfalls of 2.5 million in a month. It owns and manages over four malls in Mumbai, including R City at L.B.S marg, Ghatkopar, Off Powai and R Mall, Mulund, Mulund’s first and most prestigious mall to date.  

HOW TO PARTICIPATE
    If you would like to participate in the lucky draw that has a flat as the bumper prize, choose your property, with the help of the Project Listings below. Once you have booked the flat, you will be given a Customer Participation Form. This is your ticket to the Mangal Parv Home Fest. Keep it safely till you have registered your property agreement. Then fill in the form with the necessary details, add a slogan and drop it in the drop box at the developer's office along with proof of purchase. The last date for submission of forms is October 7, 2012, so hurry!. The grand prize of a lifestyle flat from Lodha Group will be declared shortly. You could be a winner!
    For more details, call
    Times Infoline at 67005555.

To satiate the desire of silk lovers, a ‘Cotton and Silk Fair’ is being organised by Krishna Khadi Gramodyog Santhan at Ajivasan Hall.

A treat for silk lovers

    To satiate the desire of silk lovers, a ‘Cotton and Silk Fair’ is being organised by Krishna Khadi Gramodyog Santhan at Ajivasan Hall. Hundreds of weavers are set to participate in ‘Weaves India’ — an exhibition-cum-sale — and display special items of their region.
    On till October 14, the expo will showcase a collection of saris, suits and designer kurties. Choose from an array of Bandhinis, hand block prints and Sanganeri prints from Rajasthan, Khadi silk, Tussar silk, Matka silk and Bhagalpur silk from Bihar, Kosa from Chattisgarh, Tanchoi, Banarasi, Jamdani and Jamavar, Lakhnavi Chikan from Uttar Pradesh, Patola silks from Gujarat, Banglore silk, Mysore silk and Kanchipuram silk from Karnataka, Chanderi and Maheshwari cotton silk saris and suits from Madhya Pradesh, Mangalgiri, Kalamkari, Uppada, Pochampally silks, Hubli cotton-silks, Dharamavaram silk from Andhra Pradesh, Tabi silks, Chinan silk and Pashmina shawls from Kashmir, and mirror works from Gujarat. Colourful silk stoles and scarves, and leather bags from West Bengal are also available.
Venue: Ajivasan Hall (Billa Bong High International School), Next to S.N.D.T. Women’s University, Juhu Tara Road, Santacruz (W). Time: 11 am to 9 pm Call: Sanjay Kumar Gupta (09412269058)

Weavers from across India will showcase creations

Men still rely on women to buy them boxers

Men still rely on women to buy them boxers

    Two-thirds of men still rely on their mothers, wives and girlfriends to keep their underwear drawer fully stocked, and even let the ladies dictate the style they wear, researchers say. While sagging, greying Y-fronts and cotton boxer shorts are out of fashion, brightly coloured hipster trunks with eyecatching waistbands and more discreet seams are trending. “We’ve noticed a 30% rise in sales of men’s pants over the last year and our stores tell us that it’s ladies looking to revamp their partners’ underwear drawers,” said a spokesman for an innerwear chain, who commissioned the research. “Presentable underpants are now a deal-breaker in a relationship and as such, women are on a mission. They head out underwear-shopping for their men an average five times a year and buy three pairs each time — a sizeable increase on years prior,” he added.

Women don’t mind buying underwear for their partners

certified training programme in the art of floral designing

Floral design as a vocational course

    Institute of Floral Design (IFD) is the first of its kind institute in India to offer a certified training programme in the art of floral designing. IFD is accredited to the highly successful Instituto Mexicano Technico Floral (IMTF) Mexico. IFD’s Director Seema Jhaveri says, “I’m proud to say that we have zoomed from zero to three centres. We are targeting other metros and mini metros, with Pune, Bangalore and Delhi being the first three in the pipe line.” IFD already boasts of having a successful first generation of graduates, many of whom are now flourishing entrepreneurs in the floral industry. Floral decorations command a fair percentage of the total amount spent on events like weddings, inaugurations, birth day parties, baby showers etc. A floral designer can become a retail florist or work independently as a freelancer. The course has no upper age limit. A claim made by majority of the students is, “We look forward to those three hours of class each week because at the end of each session, we are more cheerful and feel rejuvenated.”
    Call: 976976 8838/ 976976 1121
    www.ifdindia.com 

The Instistute of Floral Design

Pune-based Minocher Patel, among India’s leading motivation speakers, was invited as a thought leader to speak at the the Global Indian Business meet in (GIBM) 2012

An effective motivator

    Pune-based Minocher Patel, among India’s leading motivation speakers, was invited as a thought leader to speak at the the Global Indian Business meet in (GIBM) 2012, held at the Marriott Marquis, Times Square, Manhattan in New York City, recently. GIBM is an annual international conference for Indian leaders from across the world. Patel spoke on The Power of Happy Leadership at the meet. Some other esteemed speakers, who were invited as thought leaders were physicianwriter Deepak Chopra, economist Lord Meghnad Desai and professor Tarun Khanna, dean of Harvard Business School. Also at the event were Vijay Nambiar, Chief of Staff United Nations, Mitul Desai, Sr. Advisor to Obama government for South and Central Asia and Prabhu Dayal, Consul General of India in the US.
    The numerous awards Patel has received speak volumes about his effective motivational skills. Earlier this year, he was conferred the KATHA UK — Global Excellence Award at the House of Lords, London for being one of the country’s most effective and entertaining motivational speaker in recent times. In the past, Patel has received the Indira Gandhi Priyadarshani Award and the National Achievement Award for Excellence in Education and Training in New Delhi.
    Along with his transformational training programmes for the corporate and education sector, he also conducts one on one image coaching programmes for CEOs, industrialists, celebrities and people from the entertainment and political arena.
For details call: +91 20 32921868/ +91 20 65234735 E-mail: training@ecolesolitaire.com
www.minocherpatel.com www.ecolesolitaire.com 

Minocher Patel

practice of Brahmavidya one can achieve good health and success

Breathe your way to good health and success

    With the practice of Brahmavidya one can achieve good health and success. It helps you realise your dreams and overcome physical and mental problems. It is mostly based on breath and thought, the basic elements of life. Devote 20 minutes daily for spiritual breathing exercises and 20 minutes for meditation.
    Breathing exercises and meditation have been found useful to get rid of ailments like asthma, high blood pressure, spondylitis, back ache, joint pain, insomnia, depression and many more. It improves the mental outlook of a person and makes them positive, optimistic and confident.
    Brahmavidya Sadhak Sangh is a charitable trust. The Sangh conducts classes in Marathi, Hindi and English at over 200 centres in Mumbai, Pune and Ratnagiri. In the last decade, over 100,000 students have benefited from these teachings. Any one above 18 years can join the 22-week Basic Course. The classes are conducted once every week for an hour-and-a-half. New batches of Basic Course in English will commence this month at 17 centres across Mumbai. 

For details call: 9867400834, 9967974058 Trust Office: 25339977 

www.brahmavidya.net 

Breathing exercises and meditation can improve your life

Antoine de Saint-Exupéry was already a legend in his own lifetime

The start of a lifelong passion

    Antoine de Saint-Exupéry was already a legend in his own lifetime. People are fascinated by his books, as much as they are by his adventurous life as a pilot. In 2012, the year of the Pilot’s Watches, IWC Schaffhausen dedicates to this passionate humanist, a chronograph that unites the aspirations of those pioneering days of aviation with modern watch technology.
    Famed for its 70-year tradition in the manufacture of Pilot’s Watches, IWC Schaffhausen is using the anniversary of Antoine de SaintExupéry’s memorable first flight as an occasion to dedicate its sixth special edition to his memory — the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph Edition Antoine de Saint Exupéry in 18-carat red gold (Ref. 387805) in a limited edition of 500 watches. For connoisseurs, the tobaccocoloured dial and calfskin strap with its cream-coloured quilted stitching immediately identify the chronograph as a typical “Saint Ex”. The elaborate surface finish featuring polished, silky-matte and structured elements enhances the overall quality of the watch’s appearance. This impression is underscored by the sun-pattern finish on the dial. The sapphire glass has antireflective coating on both sides and is secured against drops in air pressure. Developed and manufactured exclusively by IWC, the 89361-calibre movement is a technical masterpiece. It displays long periods of times on a single subdial. A special engraving embellishes the back of the watch. It depicts the last aircraft Antoine de Saint-Exupéry ever flew, a Lightning P-38.
www.iwc.com 

Pilot’s Watch Chronograph Edition Antoine de Saint Exupéry

India Infoline Limited’s (IIFL’s) book on financial literacy titled 108 Mantras for Financial Success is specially conceived and conceptualised under IIFL’s FLAME (Financial Literacy Agenda for Mass Empowerment)

Mantras for financial success

    India Infoline Limited’s (IIFL’s) book on financial literacy titled 108 Mantras for Financial Success is specially conceived and conceptualised under IIFL’s FLAME (Financial Literacy Agenda for Mass Empowerment) initiative towards spreading financial literacy amongst masses. A special event was organised last week where the book was launched by Nirmal Jain (Chairman, IIFL) and R. Venkataraman (Managing Director, IIFL).
    “This book is easy to understand and is elucidated with comic illustrations. They cover nearly all key aspects of financial dealings of an individual. Incidentally, the number of 108 has mythological significance. Many people have limited understanding of how to use financial products to help enhancement of financial security, building up wealth and ensuring a comfortable life post retirement, and how to avoid frauds and losses from unscrupulous agents and schemes,” said Nirmal Jain.
    R. Venkataraman, added, “There is an urgent need to correct the popular misconception about the stock market as a gambling den by fostering a sound investment culture explaining the underlying purpose of primary and secondary markets and the benefits of investing for the long term.”
    The book, marketed and distributed by Times Group Books, is priced at 125 and is available at all leading bookstores and at books@flame.org.in. Royalty proceeds from the sale of this book will be utilised for the FLAME initiative.

Nirmal Jain, Chairman, IIFL and R Venkataraman, Managing Director, IIFL

Archana Kochhar has launched an all new range of gown-inspired saris

Giving the sari a new twist

    Archana Kochhar has launched an all new range of gown-inspired saris with Raveena
Tandon. Says the designer, “Saris have evolved from 5.5 metres of fabric to structured saris and finally, now to the new rage of gowninspired saris, which are userfriendly and comfortable to wear. Therefore, even those who don’t know how to drape a sari can wear one this festive season and enjoy it.”

Archana Kochhar and Raveena Tandon, wearing a gown-inspired sari

buy a variety of handloom saris and dress materials, the silk and cotton fab of India

Attention shopaholics

    If you’re looking out to buy a variety of handloom saris and dress materials, the silk and cotton fab of India has an exotic collection of Gadwal, Pochampally, Mangalgiri from Andhra Pradesh, Tussar and Matka silk from Bihar, Jamdani and Jamavar silk sarees, as well as products from West Bengal, Jammu and Kashmir, Chattisgarh and Banaras.
Also on display are a wide array of festive collections, including resplendent Chanderi saris and suits, Maheshwari saris and suits, Mulbarys and crepe silk saris, saris in Bagh print, Dabu print and pigment prints, Kosa silks, Bhagalpur silks and dress materials.
On till October 8, the expo is also showcasing cotton and silk handloom saris, dress materials, etc. The saris can be worn on any side with the fine finish of jamdani work, specialised in Uppada and Venkatagiri.
Venue: P L Deshpandey,
Ravindra Natya Mandir,
Behind Siddhivinayak Mandir, Prabhadevi. Time: 10 am to 9 pm.

Some of the saris available at the expo

A treat for art connoisseurs India Art Festival to showcase over a thousand artists

A treat for art connoisseurs

India Art Festival to showcase over a thousand artists

    India Art Festival (IAF) brings together 45 art galleries and 1,000 individual artists from 50 different cities across the world next month. After last year’s success, the second edition of IAF starts from November 28 to December 2 for five days at Bandra-Kurla Complex, on the MMRDA Main Ground. The exhibition is the only mixed art fair module in the world, where art galleries and individual artists exhibit under the same roof. The prime reason for such a mixed art fair module lies in the directive principles of Kalavishkar, an organising institution promoting fine arts for over a decade. “There are 400 art galleries including private and public art spaces in India, which are not sufficient for 80,000 artists in the country. We aim to provide a platform for both through IAF,” says Prafulla Dahanukar, President of IAF. Some of the participating galleries include Gallery Beyond, Tao Art Gallery, Gallery Art & soul, The Loft, ICAC ( Mumbai), Galerie Sara Arakkal (Bangalore), Forum Art Gallery (Chennai), Progressive Art Gallery (Delhi), Icon Art Gallery (Hyderabad), Art Concotion, Contemporary Art Direct (London) and 30 other galleries.
    To participate, artists can call on 9820737692 or visit www.indiaartfestival.com 

Yusuf Arakkal with a car sculpture