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Grand Prix Vroom Vroom

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In the aristocratic yet modern confines of the Trivandrum Club FWD Life catches up with Jose Pottakulam Principal M&N racing, the man who put Kerala on the Formula 1600 Championship map. Popularly called “Otta” among friends, Jose talks about racing its future and the F1 experience.

For most of the non racing enthusiasts, inaugural edition of the Indian Grand Prix at Buddh International Circuit, Noida, in October was about the Supreme Court ruling on entertainment tax and the cancelled Mettallica concert. But then for the racers there were lot to cheer about, this year’s MRF Formula 1600 Championship had a 4 car racing team from Kerala. Powered by a Ford engine, constructed by Coimbatore based J.A motors and sponsored by Muthoot Pappachan group and Kunnath Pharmaceuticals (Musli Power Xtra) with two foreign and two Indian drivers M&N racing burned a lot of rubber at the Buddh Circuit. Motorsports in India has mostly been rally and of course unofficial drags races on a straight stretch.

Initial Interest

Jose Pottamkullam reminisces about the Ambassador that got him his first Podium finish in Polular rally. “Well my first professional race was when I was in college. Few of my friends and me from Mar Ivanious college took part in Popular rally, called ourselves Team Trivandrum. Getting a podium finish was an inspiration for more races. I was hooked. I raced for around 24 rallies till 1987,” recalls the 49-year-old Jose, who’s even had quite a few podium finishes in some renowned rallies such as the Maruti Suzuki Cochin Autocross 2008 and the Cotton City Challenge, Coimbatore.

M&N Racing

Named after his children Mikka and Nikki, Jose jumped at the chance to start a racing team when J.A Motosprts and MRF came up with the possibility for 1600 championship. “I wanted to continue my association with motorsports, test driving for J.Anand and taking part in rallies was not enough, then this offer came up and I didn’t think twice. With Buddh we have an international venue and I am doing my part to set up a team, both Muthoot and Kunnath has been great sponsors, even though they had their initial doubts, once they saw what was possible was very enthusiastic. Muthoot is planning for a go cart track in Kerala, once that happens we have a decent chance to get good drivers 10 years down the line.”
We drove from Trivandrum club to Technopark where one of the cars is on display. Jose’s tweaked Fiat Punto took us effortlessly through the traffic; well the professional driving helped too. “Most youngsters think that modifying the car is about increasing the power. This car for instance accelerates faster, comes to halt faster, the tires grip the road in a different way, than a normal car, for the same reason, I know how smooth a drive I can get from it”.
First time seeing a racing car up front, I was enthusiastic about getting in. errr won’t fit in.My 6 foot plus frame and extra adipose baggage meant that I couldn’t get more than an inch beyond my knee into the car. Mr.Jose rather gracefully slides into the cockpit. He is literally on his back with just his head sticking out. “These rearview mirrors are the most important things while racing, the only way one can know what’s happening around you. Smiling he adds don’t worry once you lose some weight you’ll be able to fit in , 6 foot plus frame hasn’t stopped (Mark) Webber from winning Grand Prix ”say Jose. F1 racers average 5ft.7in, the smaller the driver the less weight which means lesser drag to reduce speed. In a game which 1 sec is a life time every trick is books is used to save time.

The F1 experience 

“Absolutely extreme, you need to see to believe it. Those drivers are inhuman, the speed those machines generate on ground is so much that all you can see is just colour blurs, the straight stretch at Buddh is the second fastest in the world . Oh and the sound is crazy, I boasted that I could handle it without ear plugs, but after 20 laps I was ready to run away. The logistics, management and security was amazing, everyone was given chip embedded badges, which meant the moment anyone stepped out of bound security personnel were alerted. No matter who you are, celebrities to Ministers nobody was allowed to move beyond the area they were cleared for. The only people who had a major grouse was the international airport control tower, there were more than 24 private jets landing and taking off on that single day.”

The Future

While Jose is optimistic about the future, he does have his own reservation about getting homegrown quality drivers. “ Racing is one sports in which there is a limit to what practice can do, you either have the killer edge or you don’t , this is why we see a lot of promising drivers coming along, they there go abroad for more training and then they realize that its mentality physically difficult to keep up”. Motorsports training really has to start very early, according to Jose; a potential driver can be identified at the age of 8 or 9.
A few things you never knew about racing.
The 3 layered racing outfit which includes a fire resistant jumpsuit costs Rs.50,000
The helmet cost 40,000
The 1600 car- 36 lakhs
For the manufactures it’s not just about making fast cars about also about customizing cars for drivers, from which they can exit in 4.5sec

The M&N Racers

Gaurav Gill and Arjun Balu (for the Muthoot car),
British racer Alex Waters and French racer Philippe Layac (for the Musli power car)
A Formula One driver burns approximately 600 calories per Grand Prix and loses on average two kilograms in weight
During a race, the average temperature in the cockpit will reach 50 °C
Drivers’ heart rates reach peaks of 190 beats per minute during a Grand Prix.
The car will generate lateral accelerations of 5G during cornering
Tyres can reach temperatures of 160°C

 

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Young Initiative

What is the Vantara Project ?

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Reliance Industries and the Reliance Foundation introduced the “Vantara” programme (also known as the “Star of the Forest” programme) on February 26, 2024. Its main focus will be on the treatment, care, rescue, and rehabilitation of hurt, abused, threatened, or vulnerable animals in India and beyond. Anant Ambani, a director on the boards of both the Reliance Foundation and RIL, is the creator of the programme. 

Vantara (Star of the Forest) was founded on a deep philosophy that blends the accuracy of contemporary science and technology with the ancient Indian attitude of compassion, or “seva.” It is an expression of the moral duty to protect all living things, motivated by deeply ingrained Hindu traditions that maintain that serving animals is equivalent to serving the divine.

Vantara has demonstrated its dedication by organizing the rescue and rehabilitation of more than 200 elephants and numerous other animals from dangerous situations, offering these animals a safe habitat. The initiative extends beyond the act of rescue. It also includes putting key species like crocodiles, leopards, and rhinos through rehabilitation programmes to ensure their survival and well-being.

Vantara’s cutting-edge veterinary hospital, a marvel of contemporary medical technology, is the beating heart of the company’s medical endeavors. With its six specialist surgical centers, endoscopic robotic surgery technologies, and MRI and CT scan machines, the hospital is the best place for animal healthcare. The clinic, which fits damaged animals with prosthesis and helps them recover their health, is at the vanguard of medical innovation.

“The zoological park will be opened to the public soon, allowing people to witness our efforts in wildlife conservation and the sophisticated care we provide,” Anant Ambani said in a statement regarding the hospital’s capabilities and Vantara’s future ambitions.

However, Vantara’s vision goes beyond its confines. Ambani unveiled a bold proposal to transform animal welfare in India. “With training, capacity building, and the improvement of animal care infrastructure, Vantara aims to partner with the Zoo Authority of India and other relevant government organizations to improve the quality of all the 150+ zoos in India,” he said. This project, which emphasizes the value of comprehensive care and animal welfare, is poised to establish a new benchmark for zoos across the country.

In addition to being a haven for wildlife, vantara symbolizes optimism in the struggle against environmental deterioration and our responsibility to protect the planet’s rare biodiversity. Vantara asks us all to participate in a story that celebrates life in all its forms as it gets ready to open to the public.

 

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Cover Story

Insta – Glam : Best Fashion from Aparna Thomas

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Instagram has developed into a busy runway in the fast-paced world of fashion, where influencers like Aparna Thomas showcase their own looks, creating trends and motivating millions of others. Aparna Thomas has enthralled audiences with her varied and imaginative ensembles thanks to her outstanding taste and passion for fashion. Let’s delve into some of her best fashion looks that have left a lasting impression on fashion enthusiasts around the globe.

Effortless Glamour

Aparna Thomas looks sophisticated and alluring in this beautiful rainbow saree by Fitting Room Couture, styled by talented Sabarinath. Her look as completed by jewels from Pure Allure

Shimmer Glam

How to add a touch of glamour to any occasion without sacrificing comfort or style, just add some Shimmer. Aparna looks gorgeous  in the stunning golden sequined flared dress by D’Roz for Christmas theme shoot.

Chic Style

Aparna looks casual chic with urban sophistication with her street style look in this green dress by Urbanic

Regal Beauty

Aparna is a natural at stealing the show; she looks magnificent in her exquisite blue saree that Sabarinath styled. The saree comes from Luxurion World. 

Mythical Magic

Aparna looks stunning in an embellished saree by T & M Signature thanks to her excellent sense of style. The blouse features soft and elegant hues with delicate foliate motifs and elaborate crisscross patterns. The MOD Signature jewels completed the entire look. 

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Cover Story

Explore the Hidden Gems: Must-Visit Places on Lakshadweep

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Lakshadweep, meaning “a hundred thousand islands” in Sanskrit, is a mesmerizing archipelago nestled in the Arabian Sea. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, Lakshadweep is a paradise for travelers seeking serenity and natural beauty. Lakshadweep offers activities for all types of visitors, including nature lovers, water sports enthusiasts, and beach bums. These are the top  activities to do in Lakshadweep when visiting.

The only ways to get to Lakshadweep are by air or boat. There are frequent flights from Kochi and Bangalore to the single airport, which is located on Agatti Island. Another option is to travel by ferry from Kochi, which takes between 18 to 20 hours. To enter Lakshadweep, visitors must get a special permit, which can be obtained online or through the tourism department of Lakshadweep. When the weather is nice and sunny, from October to March is the ideal time to visit Lakshadweep. Since there aren’t many resorts or guesthouses in Lakshadweep, it’s crucial to reserve your lodging well in advance.

Agatti Island:

Agatti, the gateway to Lakshadweep, welcomes you with its breathtaking beauty. The island boasts stunning coral reefs, making it a haven for snorkelers and divers. Take a stroll along the shimmering white sands or indulge in water sports like kayaking and windsurfing. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the spectacular sunset painting the sky in hues of orange and pink.

Minicoy Island:

Experience the rich cultural heritage of Lakshadweep on Minicoy Island. The island is renowned for its traditional Maldivian-influenced culture, evident in its architecture, cuisine, and customs. Explore the charming villages adorned with colorful houses and visit the iconic Lighthouse built by the British. Don’t miss the chance to savor authentic Maldivian cuisine and witness captivating cultural performances.

Kadmat Island:

For those craving solitude and tranquility, Kadmat Island is the perfect escape. This serene island is renowned for its untouched beaches fringed with swaying palms. Dive into the azure waters to explore the vibrant marine life teeming with colorful fish and coral formations. Relax under the shade of coconut trees and savor fresh seafood delicacies served by local vendors.

Amini Beach:

If you’re searching for quiet tourist destinations in Lakshadweep, Amini Beach is a great choice. This beach is well-known on Amini Island because of its coral sandstone surface. Adventure sports like as snorkelling, scuba diving, reef walking, and kayaking are available for you to try. Amini Beach is a great place to unwind and spend the day drinking cocktails and soaking up the sun.

Bangaram Island:

Dubbed as the jewel of Lakshadweep, Bangaram Island is a postcard-perfect destination. With its powdery white sands and emerald lagoons, it’s a paradise for beach lovers. Spend your days basking in the sun, snorkeling amidst the coral gardens, or simply unwinding in a hammock under the shade of a palm tree. Indulge in a romantic beach picnic as you watch the stars illuminate the night sky.

Lakshadweep beckons travelers with its pristine beauty, diverse marine life, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, the islands offer a myriad of experiences to cherish. Explore these must-visit places on Lakshadweep and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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