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The Hindu : y>There’s a wider choice for those looking to buy a hatchback

The battle of the hatches just got a lot more intense with the recent arrival of the Ford Figo and Volkswagen Polo in the B-segment of the market.

While the Polo is priced at Rs. 5.10 lakh (base 1.2-litre petrol version; on-road, Mumbai), the Figo’s base 1.2-litre petrol LXI version costs Rs. 4.12 lakh.

The entry-level Polo includes features such as an anti-theft immobiliser, central locking, steering wheel adjustment, front power windows and full wheel covers.

The entry-level Figo comes with body-coloured bumpers, air conditioner, power steering, cup holders and a remote fuel filler opener.

Moving to the top-end variants, the Figo 1.2 petrol Titanium and Polo 1.2 petrol Highline boasts many features.

As for pricing, Figo costs Rs. 5.20 lakh and Polo Rs. 6.68 lakh.

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The Hindu :

The Wolfgang Haffner Trio displayed consummate musicianship

Photo: Sampath Kumar G.P.Hectic pace Drummer Haffner was the star of the show

It was with a bittersweet taste, quite apart from mild reservations, that I came away from the Max Mueller Bhavan after listening to a jazz concert by the Wolfgang Haffner Trio. Bittersweet, because I last heard Haffner, a terrific drummer, in November 2005 when he played alongside Charlie Mariano for the inauguration of the Bhavan’s new building. That was Mariano’s last visit to Bangalore; he died of cancer last July. Haffner referred in his first announcement of the evening to both the occasion and Mariano’s passing.

As for the reservations that moderate the enthusiasm I felt along with the audience (for its part probably unreservedly), I should start by saying that although many drummers exhibit a high degree of showmanship, Haffner tended at times to let it go a bit over the top. For example, towards the end of a concert during which he had used a vast palette of percussive techniques, he pulled out a couple of plastic mallets – children’s toys – that produced a squeaking sound as he struck the drums (and, once, his own head!).

Having got that out of the way, one must say that everything Haffner, Christian Diener on bass and Hubert Nuss on digital piano did was good jazz – consummate musicianship delivering passionate and exciting music. All the music was from the trio’s recent albums “Round Silence” and “Shapes”, all original compositions and all probably written by Haffner himself.

The trio played ten numbers including the encore “Silent Way”. The majority of them were in medium to fast tempos, although the encore was a slow piece after the hectic pace of the unnamed two numbers that came before it. Two short pieces opened the concert, which continued with numbers that showed more development and hence of course…More

The Hindu : y>

I am a student and am planning to purchase a new motorcycle. I want one with good performance, decent mileage and low maintenance costs. I have shortlisted the TVS Apache RTR 160 Fi and Apache RTR 180, but am unable to decide between the two. Please suggest the better bike keeping in mind my height of five feet eight inches.

Krishna Kanth

You could buy either of the two TVS motorcycles. If you want better mileage, buy the Apache RTR 160 Fi. If you crave faster performance, then the Apache RTR 180 is the bike to go for.

I am looking to upgrade from my Honda Activa. I have a problematic back and need a bike or scooter with a supple rear suspension. The model must also offer good mileage and have low maintenance costs. Which two-wheeler should I go in for?

Sumanta

Keeping in mind your requirement for good ride quality, we suggest you go in for the Honda Aviator.

I am in the market for a new bike with good looks and performance. Fuel economy is not a concern. My budget is Rs. 1,30,000. Which is the best bike among the Bajaj Pulsar 220 DTS-i, Hero Honda Karizma ZMR, Royal Enfield Bullet Classic 500 and TVS Apache RTR 180?

Mannu

The Bajaj Pulsar 220 DTS-i is a good buy for you.

I want a 150cc motorcycle and am confused between the TVS Apache RTR 160 and the Yamaha Fazer. Which one should I go for?

Rahul

You first need to decide on what kind of bike you require. The TVS Apache RTR 160 offers faster performance, quick handling and good value for money, whereas the Yamaha Fazer is more about comfort, refinement and good overall quality, at a premium.

I am looking for a bike with good durability, fuel economy, style, performance and ease of maintenance. Also, what are the advantages of a four-valve over a two-valve engine?

Sunny Bashyal

We suggest you go…More

The Hindu : y>

Candid legend Shane Warne talks about his cricket and personal life

Widely regarded as one of the greatest bowlers in history, Australian cricketer Shane Warne joins CNN’s “Talk Asia” for an interview in Mumbai. The legendary player talks about his illustrious career, his experience playing in the Indian Premier League for Rajasthan Royals and his much talked about life off the field. As captain and coach of the Rajasthan Royals, Warne shares insights that helped his team win the inaugural IPL tournament. He also discusses the glamour and entertainment elements, that has revolutionised cricket.

The boy from Victoria also looks back at Australia’s Ashes win in 1993, recalling the tension, the camaraderie and the elation when victory was sealed. He gives a detailed account of how he achieved “the ball of the century” that led him to be regarded as the world’s best ever leg-spinner. But he modestly responds to the suggestion by saying that he felt blessed in life to have such a talent, for which he thanked his parents.

Off the cricket pitch, Warne talks about the attacks on Indians in Australia, that have starined relations between the countries and cricketing rivals. The interview will be aired at CNN at 6 p.m. today. The interview will also be available online at www.cnn.com/talkasia.

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The Hindu :

India will interpret Chopin for itself, says the Polish envoy Piotr Klodkowski

Photo: Bhagya Prakash k.Unlikely fusion Piotr Klodkowski says Indian audiences can expect a Bharatanatyam piece performed to Chopin’s composition

Mapping the astonishing impact of the iconic Polish composer and pianist Fryderyk Chopin exactly 200 years since his birth, Ambassador of the Republic of Poland to India, Piotr Klodkowski finds that the maestro has struck a chord in countries as geographically removed and culturally different from Poland as China and Japan.

Music lovers in different countries have interpreted for themselves the 19th century icon’s compositions that are emotional, delicate and powerful all at once. The émigré artist’s music was considered so politically-loaded in his time, that it was treated with great suspicion by the Tsarist occupiers of Poland and later, banned by Nazi Germany, says Klodkowski. The Polish envoy was in Bangalore to launch ‘Chopin 2010 India,’ a year-long series of events – exhibition, films, ballet – to celebrate Chopin’s 200th birth anniversary.

If in Japan the gentleness of his music evokes a certain form of traditional painting, China has the largest Chopin following in Asia. It was no coincidence that Chinese pianist Lang Lang launched the Chopin Year in January with a concert at the Warsaw Philharmonic. “Chopin is slowly but surely gaining popularity in India – and I’m sure India will discover aspects of his music that strikes a unique chord,” says Klodkowski who is also the president of the celebration committee for Chopin 2010 India. He was surprised that so many music lovers turned up for the inaugural concert in Pune.

At the end of this year, says Klodkowski, Indian audiences can expect an unlikely fusion piece: “We are talking to artists here about the possibility of a Bharatanatyam or Kathak piece performed to Chopin’s compositions.” Klodowski has travelled to Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Kolkata and Chennai over the last few weeks…More

The Hindu : y>While spending quality time as a couple is imperative, it ismore often than not bypassed and even ignored once children enter themarriage equation, writes BINDU TOBBY

Photo: R. RAGUAcross Generations Rely on your parents who are only too happy to spend time with their grandchildren

I was shocked to hear my ownresponse to a friend’s casualquestion. It had been a littleover five years since my husbandand I had been to a movie.And almost that long since wehad a quiet dinner or for thatmatter even had an uninterruptedconversation without thenoise, bustle, mess and madnessthat our energetic four year oldand bouncy one year old bringwith them.Of course each day is a joyouslyaction-packed, hectic andchaotic roller coaster ride whilethe teething and burpingjustflowed inconspicuously fromone day to the next. I reallyhadn’t realised till that momentthat years had been swept rightoff from under our feet andwhile the joy and pride of parenthoodhad overtaken all else,`couple-time’ had quietly eludedus.Says Preethi Pais, a mom ofone year old twins, “I feel it isextremely important to spendtime as a couple whether youhave your kids immediately aftermarriage or even after a goodgap. It’s important to keepthings alive and fresh. For mepersonally it helps to have bothour families in the same city soeach grandmother has a day ortwo in the week when they comein to oversee and help my twopart- time maids – that’s one foreach baby!” she says laughing.She adds, “Thankfully I alsohave a sister who we can safelyleave the kids with and take offfor a couple of hours to watch amovie or for some retail therapy.”We all know that the bondsand relationships within ourfamily unit – whether betweenhusband and wife, parent andchild or between siblings, has itsfoundation firmly embedded inthe depth of the bonding that theparents share. But often, the momentwe become parents, ourchildren take centre-stage andthe `couple’ quietly and unconsciouslymove to the wings!”says T Zacharias, who workswith an MNC.Guilt…More

The Hindu :

A checklist on what the automatic versions of Chevrolet Cruze, Volkswagen Jetta and Skoda Laura have to offer

The Chevrolet Cruze offers bold looks and a strong diesel. Does the introduction of an automatic add to its appeal? Not if the diesel versions of the VW Jetta and Skoda Laura automatic have the same plan.

The Cruze isjust as striking on the inside as it is on the outside. Chevrolet has given the Cruze a dual-cockpit theme and it looks good. The big gauges, which light up in blue, look very cool at night.

The Cruze also feels the most hi-tech as it offers keyless ignition. The Cruze also gets cruise control, automatic climate control and auto folding mirrors, all of which add to its appeal. The only disappointment is the quality of the materials.

Laura’s cabin has a solid built-to-last feel to it. The dashboard plastics have a soft touch but the Laura’s cabin design is too plain. Also, the air-con controls lack the chunky and tactile feel. However, the beige colour goes a long way in imparting an airy feel to what is already a roomy cabin.

Everything from the leather seats, the switchgear and the upholstery is classy in the Jetta. Attention to detail is also very good but this is somewhat negated by the dull grey dashboard design.

The Cruze’s front seats are supportive and very comfortable. There’s generous under-thigh and back support and, thanks to the plethora of adjustments available, finding an ideal driving position is not a problem. However, bigger-built passengers may find the seat narrow and uncomfortably firm on long journeys.

The Cruze’s cabin offers plenty of storage space with four decent-sized door bins, a big glovebox, cup- and bottle-holders, a dash top box and central storage cubby.

The Jetta and Laura are very similar in overall space and rear seat comfort. Storage spaces abound in both cars, with a central…More

The Hindu : y>

Dazzling The collection is dotted with precious stones

Roopa Vohra, revivalist and couture jeweller, is having an exhibition of her collection, “Fine Jewellery Collection”. She draws her inspiration from the cultural heritage and uses precious stones, including uncut diamonds, rubies, emeralds, sapphires and south sea pearls.

The collection is made up of a wide spectrum of imaginative powers and artistic vision inspired by 400 year old Mughal art forms, combining historical & art influences.

. The exhibition is at The Taj West End Board Room, Race Course Road, on April 3 and 4 from 11 a.m. onwards.

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The Hindu :

MohynaSrinivasan’s TheHouse on MallRoad is a lovingtribute to Army life

Way of life Mohyna Srinivasan

Mohyna Srinivasan’s debutnovel, “The Houseon Mall Road” (Penguin,Rs. 325) “Comesout of very deep, childhoodmemories.” The young writerwho was in town for the booklaunch at Crossword Bookstore,explained that like theprotagonist Parvati, she toowas a “Fauji (Army) kid. The1971 War made a huge impressionon me. Black outs andplanes flying overhead werepart of routine. It was an excitingand scary time.”During the War, Mohyna’sfather, who was in the Armywas serving on the Front. “Wewere in Ambala. I was seven,dad was away and there wasmy grandmother, mum, myseven-month-old sister andme-four women in the house.It was a big, defining, compellingmoment, it made me who Iam.”While there are a lot of similaritiesbetween Parvati andMohyna including a sharedvalue system, Mohyna insiststhe book is not autobiographical.”The places exist, but thecharacters are totally madeup. Terrible things happen toParvati – a bomb in the housedestroys her family, while herfather is missing in action onthe Front. Nothing of the sort,thank the lord happened tome.”The Mumbai-based writerdescribes the book as “literaryfiction with a lot of unexpectedtwists and turns. `MallRoad’ highlights the beautyand simplicity of Army life.Though the War is central tothe book, the story is notabout war, it is about the simple,humdrum details of peacetime. About the mess partiesand tambola in the club.”Though the novel is set in1991, the Army cantonment inAmbala, which Parvati revisitsto make sense of the horrificevents on the chilly winternight 20 years ago, seems frozenin time. There is the husband’snight, the officersdressing for dinner in cummerbunds,the impromptupicnics, the Commanding officer(CO) being responsible forhis `boys’, the CO’s wife motheringthe entire unit, the oldbungalows bent over with theweight of history, all fly off thepages tinged with the sweetsmell of nostalgia.Mohyna elaborates: “Timestands still in Army Cantonments.There is a wonderfulhabit of `calling on’ in the Army.When you are posted to anew place, you go visiting. Youpay your respects…More

The Hindu : SHAPUR KOTWAL & HORMAZD SORABJEE(INPUTS FROM VIJO VARGHESE)

Nissan describes its new Micra as ‘good, clean fun’. Shapur Kotwal & Hormazd Sorabjee discover it’s not a false promise

Nissan may be a little known car maker in India, but once the new Micra launches, this is set to change. We were invited to take a short drive in Nissan’s new baby in Thailand. And we can tell you right away, it’s just the sort of car that will appeal to a considerable section of Indian car buyers.

The new Micra doesn’t make much of a first impression. Some of that silvery tinge of excitement you get looking at a new car seems to be missing and the car looks quite familiar as well. Part of this is due to the expectation we all have today that every new car should look radically different. But Nissan designers say they have stayed away from ‘edgy’ styling because, according to their surveys, sharp lines and creases give a fragile image, which they wanted to avoid. Instead, Nissan has deliberately gone for a more rounded look that looks more robust. The details that stick in your mind are the attractive, high-mounted lights pods and the two-part grille. The arched profile of the cabin is something carried over from the Micra’s DNA, but there is a mishmash of lines at the rear, especially near the rear spoiler and the tail-lights.

Nissan likes to describe the character of the new Micra as ‘Good, clean, fun.’

It does come across as a cute and cheerful design which will surely appeal to women.

Step into the cabin and the oval and rounded theme abounds. You get a round speedometer, a round cluster of buttons on the central console, round vents and a round steering boss. The Micra is also pretty practical. There is good amount of space for odds and ends and the door…More