A Very Special Folk Dance – Chavittunadakam

Chavittu Nadakam is a folklore art practiced by Christians in some parts of Kerala state of south India.

Offshoot of theatre, this form of play was prevalent among the Christian community spanning from Kodungallur to Ambalappuzha. Training is provided to performers before staging the play. The master is known as Annavi. The whole play is performed through musicals.

The main characters sport broached dress, headdress and crowns. The soldiers sport hats fitted with quills. The bell and drum are two instruments used as back ground score. Most of the times the stories related to Christianity or Western history or Biblical stories are played.

Chavittunatakam was introduced during the time of the Portuguese in Kerala in the16th century A.D. ‘Chavittu’ means the rhythmic steps which accompanies the recitation of lines in the drama.

In the beginning this theatre was practiced by Latin Christians. This concept of the western opera type of theatre was inspired from the miracle plays of the west. The themes presented were also western. The texts were written in old Tamil. The acting techniques, stage structure and treatment of the plot were all western. The influence of Kathakali can be seen in the use of curtains and in certain elements of the costumes. The influence of Kalaripayattu is evident from the vivacious fighting scenes.

The characters used to sing their dialogues. Male actors does the roles of women.The adventurous themes selected for Chavittunatakam, like ‘Charlemangne’, ‘St. George’ etc gave immense opportunity to use the local martial art form, Kalaripayattu both for the fighting scenes and the total kinetic design. The participants of the play used to be very militant in their real life as they were sometimes used for fighting trespassers on private land. Kalaripayattu has immensely influenced the form. The forceful stamping of the foot by the actors is most dramatic and it effectively communicates the basic heroic mood in most of the themes. Being an opera, gestures are not used in Chavittunatakam to communicate ideas. The steps, the stamping and the locomotion of the body sharply coincide with the vocal singing and the accompanying rhythm on the instrument chenda creating a very vibrant dramatic effect.

The stage for the performance used to be a low platform of the strongest wood, about twenty yards long, eight yards broad and half a yard high. The performance was deemed a failure if, by the time the play ended, the platform had not been completely wrecked by the tremendous pounding of the actors feet.

The training in the art was given by the chief Guru known as ‘Annavi’ or ‘Asan’. He used to give basic martial training to the actors before introducing them to the text. The texts were preserved either in palm leaf or paper and they were known as ‘Chuvati’. The Annavi was well versed in Tamil which was the language in which the texts were written. The number of performers and troupes in this discipline has come down as the art was not getting adequate encouragement from the public. But recently there has been a revival of traditional art forms all over, including this dance drama.

Training centers in kerala

KRIPASANAM PAVARNIKA RANGA KALAPEEDOM
Near Block Junction Kalavoor P.O.
Alappuzha 688022
Phone : ++91-477-2252230
Contact Person Fr. V . P. Joseph
Area of Training Performing Arts Training
Course Name Chavittunadakam
Academic month for Admission June
Duration of the Course 6 years
No. of Seats 12
About the Institution
The centre for folk arts offers course in Chavittunadakam. The centre is managed by a Trust. Established in 1989, the centre is affiliated with the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Academy.

Career opportunities – Air hostess/Pursers

One of the important aspects of travel by air is concerned with making the journey of the passenger as much comfortable and safe. It is in this respect the Air hostess/Pursers play their role.

This is a very promising career option with the vision of a smart, efficient lady in mind. Many young girls opt for the career because of the exciting experience of flying, visiting different places, interacting with different kinds of people on board and for the very attractive pay package. Liberalisation of air policies have increased the private operation of air services and this has created immense job opportunities in this field. Even though this career gives exciting experience it is not as easy as it seems. This is a highly demanding job which requires a lot of patience and involves odd duty hours. To be more specific behind this career lies a strong conviction, commitment and hard work for learning the technical aspects of aircraft operation and skills to tackle difficult situation.

The air hostess is called the first person to welcome a passenger, her welcoming smile and greeting acknowledge every passenger. Inside the aircraft, she seems to be here, there and everywhere, greeting every passenger, guiding each to his or her seat, helping a passenger get settled, co-ordinating security personnel, giving directions as and when required and doing a myriad things. Basically, she’s on constant call all the time.

Eligibility & Course Areas: Eligibility for an airhostess-training programme is plus two/ or a graduate degree with a diploma/degree in Hotel Management or Tourism Management. The applicant should be physically fit with a pleasing personality and clear complexion. Click here for more details

Job Prospects and Career options : An Air Hostess has every chance to be promoted to the post of Senior Flight Attendant and then Head Attendant. Career as an Air Hostess would last for about eight to ten years, after that she could move on to the ground duties including the job of a Ground Hostess, Check Hostess, training of airhostess or work in the management level. One can also diversify into any one of the other departments in the airline industry.

The duty of an airhostess last throughout the duration of the flight. The job of an air hostess begins long before the arrival of the passengers. It starts with safety check on the aircraft, where she has to check the safety equipment, blankets, pillows, magazines, plates, napkins and medicines, etc. as well as the cleanliness.

After the passengers board the flight the job includes assisting passengers to settle down. Special care is needed in the case of sick travellers, VIPs, babies or children or elderly people traveling alone. Once all the passengers are seated it is the duty of the airhostess to go about ensuring that safety arrangements are in proper condition and demonstrate the use of emergency equipment.

They has to provide first aid if such a situation arise. Her responsibilities also include serving meals to passengers. In case of an emergency during the flight, she need to take responsibility and determine the most appropriate steps to deal with the situation.

In short she has to work continuously with presence of mind and must be on call all the time.

Remuneration : In the beginning, depending on the airlines you are getting into, your salary and other allowance may ad up to Rs.16,000 to Rs.35,000(approx) or more per month.

Some of the major institutions which provide airhostess education in India are:

Global Institute
B-!/637,Janakpuri,Main Najafgarh Road, New Delhi-58
Phone :9818971221, 25541341
Web Site : www.globalflightkare.org

Indian Aviation Academy
7/8 Rushabh Complex, Opposite Fun Republic Cinema, Oshivara, Andheri (West)
Phone : 009122 – 26749058, 26740041
Web Site : www.indianaviationacademy.com

Sristys Aviation
Sristy’s School of Air Hostess, 307, Swarnajayanthi Complex, Ameerpet, Hyderabad
Phone : 04065886588, 04065888858
Web Site : www.sristysaviation.com

Air Hostess Academy (AHA), 48, Ring Road, Lajpat Nagar III, New Delhi, 110024
Ph : 011-29832771-75, 29837481-89

Aptima Air Hostess Academy, J1/164, Rajouri Garden, New Delhi 110027
Ph: 011-5176407, 5176471, 5176432, Fax: 011-5432729

Frankfinn Institute of Air Hostess Training, Door No 39/6795,1st Floor,Vallamattom Estate,Ravipuram,Cochin -682 015, Ph : 91-484- 4014400 etc.

GOOD LUCK …

ONAM

Onam the birthday of Sage Vamana is an annual harvest festival, celebrated mainly in the south Indian state of Kerala. It is a popular festival among the cultural repertoire of Malayalees, and falls during the month of Chingam (August/September as per the Gregorian calendar), the first month of the Malayalam calendar, and lasts for ten days. Traditionally celebrated as a harvest festival, mythologically it is linked to Malayalee-Hindu folktales; but Onam is celebrated by people of all religions . The onam is observed when the moon is in Sravana nakshatra in the month of solar Bhadrapada (Simha Surya) as a madhyahana vyapini purvaviddha.

Significance of onam

Onam has been part of Malayalee psyche for centuries. There are records of Onam being celebrated during the Sangam Age. The earliest record of Onam is found during the time of Kulasekhara Perumals around AD 800.
Onam has two specific significances. First it is the communal memory and celebration of past history as enunciated in the Mahabali legend – a story of how paradise was lost. Second it is the celebration of the harvest, tied with the memory of the golden age of prosperity. It is believed that during those days the whole of Chingam was celebrated as Onam season. After the rain-drenched month of Karkidakam, with its privations, Chingam is a welcome month for people in the state of Kerala. The festival is the harbinger of spring – signalling the start of the harvest season. Onam epitomises the newfound vigour and enthusiasm of the season, and is celebrated with traditional fervour with visits to temples, family get-togethers, gifting of clothes called Onakkodi and lots of merrymaking.

The Keralites perform the Mohiniattam Dance, dedicated to the female form of Vishnu Mohini. There is also the Krishnanaattam dance. Many Keralites also worship Narayani. Sri Narayani Peedam and Sri Bangaru Adigalar of Kerala and their followers claim that these two figures are a forms or avatars of the goddess Sri Narayani. Thiruvathira kali is another dance form performed at the time of onam.

Legend

Kashyapa had two wives, Diti and Aditi, who were the parents of demons and demigods (Asuras and Devas) respectively. Indra, the king of demigods, went to war with the king of Asuras. Mahabali, the King of Asuras, defeated Indra and proceeded to occupy Indra’s territory. Kashyapa, who had gone to the Himalayas to do penance, on his return found Aditi weeping over the defeat of her son, Indra. By divine insight, Kashyapa recognised the cause of grief. Kashyapa tried to console Aditi who was wailing in grief, saying that nothing happens in the world without God’s will and people should go on doing their duties. Kashyapa asked Aditi to pray to Lord Narayana and taught her Payovrata, a ritual that has to be observed from the 12th day of the bright half of Karthika (Sukla-paksha Dwaadasi). Since Aditi carried out the Vrata with a pious heart, Lord Narayana appeared before her and informed her that he would himself place a child in her womb and help Indra. Later, on the 12th day of the bright half of the month of Bhadrapada, Aditi gave birth to a son of uncommon effulgence. That child, “Vamana-murti“, demonstrated his divine powers by doing marvellous deeds even when he was a child.

Balichakravarthi (Bali, The Emperor) or Mahabali, was the grandson of Prahlad (son of Hiranya Kashyapu) who met Vishnu in his Vamana Avatar. Prahalad, despite being an Asura, had great faith in Vishnu. One cannot miss the series of warfare between Vishnu and the Asuras – those born of the breath of God. Bali Maharaj, sat in Prahlad’s lap as a child and learnt love and devotion of Lord Vishnu from Prahlad.

Mahabali’s rule was considered as the golden era of Kerala. The celebration of Onam resounds and chants the following song all over Kerala:

‘ When Maveli, our King, ruled the land,
All the people were as One.
And people live joyful and merry;
They were all free from harm.
There was neither anxiety nor sickness,
Death of the children were never even heard of,
There were no lies,
There is neither theft nor deceit,
And no one is false in speech either.
Measures and weights were right;
No one cheated or wronged their neighbor.
When Maveli, our King, ruled the land,
All the peoples formed one casteless race.’

The gods were very annoyed as Bali became the ruler of all the three worlds having defeated the Devas. Violence was inflicted upon the Devas.[1] The gods approached Vishnu and asked for his help them. Mahabali, who was performing the sacrificial rite of Viswajith Yagna or Aswamedha Yagna[2] on the banks of Narmada River, declared that he would give anything that anyone sought from him during this Yagna. He Vishnu, incarnated in the form of Vamana, a dwarf to defeat the Daityas.

Vamana came to the Yaga-shala. As he was approaching them, the sages assembled there perceived the extraordinary effulgence form of the young lad. Mahabali went forth to receive the Brahmin boy with all traditional honours and gave him an eminent seat befitting the status of a holy person. Bali with the usual courtesy given to the people who come to ask for help told him Master! It is my good fortune that you have chosen to honour me with your presence. Whatever you desire, I am here ready to fulfill the same. Vamana smiled and said: “You need not give me anything great. It is enough if you give me that extend of land covered by three footsteps of mine”.

On hearing him, Bali’s preceptor, the Brahmin Shukracharya (a Daitya priest) who had vision of the future told Bali that the one, who had come to take alms from Bali was not an ordinary Brahmin but Lord Narayana Himself who had assumed this form. He advised Bali not to promise the lad anything. But Bali was a king who would never go back on his word. He told his Guru that he would never break his promise as it was a sin. Shukracharya insisted that he should not fulfill the demand of Vamana as he had come to deprive Bali of all his possessions.

Bali, however, was determined to honour the word given to Vamana, begged pardon of his Guru for disregarding his advice. Earlier, while Bali was embarking on the war with Indra, he had prostrated at the feet of his preceptor, Shukracharya, and on his advice he performed the Vishwajit Yagna from which he secured very powerful weapons. It was only because of Shukracharya’s help that he was able to conquer Indra. On this occasion, Bali was not prepared to heed the advice of the same preceptor. Shukracharya cursed Bali, saying: ‘As you have not heeded your Guru’s words, you will be reduced to ashes’. Bali was firm and replied: ‘I am prepared to face any consequence but will not go back on my word’.

Saying so, he asked Vamana to measure the three feet of land as desired by him. All attempts of Shukracharya to dissuade Bali from offering the land desired by Vamana proved futile. Bali considered everyone who came to him as god himself and never refused anyone anything that they have asked. Bali told his Guru: “Prana (life) and Maana (honour) are like the two eyes of a person. Even if life goes, honour should be protected. Knowing that the person that has come now is the Lord Himself, I should be the most fortunate one as the Lord, who gives everything to mankind, is seeking something from me.” Bali boasted that even in Vishnu himself were to come to his sacrifice and ask for anything, Bali would deliver it.

Vamana grew in size until he towered above the heavens. With one foot, he measured all of the earth. With the other, he claimed all of the heaven. There was still one foot of territory that Bali owed him. Bali asked to place the final step on his head as the third step of land which Lord Vamana had asked for as alms. Vamana placed the third step on the head of Bali and suppressed him to Patala, the underworld. For the devotion of this Daitya Mahabali, Lord Vishnu (Vamana) granted him rule over Patala. Vamana aka Vishnu granted Bali the boon that he would hold the position of Indra for one Manvantara , thus fulfilling his devotee’s desire ( the office of Indra being a rotating position , changing every Manvantara ) .

As a last wish Mahabali was granted the permission to visit his subjects once a year. Thus, Keralites celebrate Onam festival to commemorate the memory of a Great King Mahabali who would keep his promise. Mahabali fulfilled his name as the great martyr for the sake of Truth (“Satya”). The name “Mahabali” itself means Great Sacrifice.

During Onam, the feast and festive mood of the people, dressed in their best, is considered reminiscent of the prosperous and truthful life of the subjects during Bali’s flawless reign. People wear new clothes (Vastra) during Onam. The ‘Vastra’ also stands for heart. Thus the significance of wearing new clothes is about making the heart new by removing all bad thoughts and feelings. People forgetting their sectarian outlooks, join together to welcome the auspicious ‘Thiruvonam’ day.

Attractions of Onam

One of the main attractions of Onam, is the ‘Vallamkali’ or boat races of Karuvatta, Payippad, Aranmula and Kottayam. Hundreds of oarsmen row traditional boats to the rhythm of drums and cymbals. These long graceful Snake Boats called ‘Chundans’ are named after their exceedingly long hulls and high sterns that resemble the raised hood of a cobra.

Then there are ‘Odis’, the small and swift raiding crafts adorned with gold tasseled silk umbrellas, the ‘Churulans’ with their elaborately curled prows and sterns, and the ‘Veppus’, a kind of cook-boat. This traditional village rivalry on watercrafts reminds one of ancient naval warfare.

Thousands throng the banks to cheer and watch the breathtaking show of muscle power, rowing skills and rapid rhythm. These boats – all pitted against their own kind – rip through the backwaters of Kerala in a tussle of speed.

Onam Special Recipes

‘Onasadhya’ is the grand feast served during the celebration of Onam in Kerala. It is served in Banana leafs. There is a way of placing the leaf and an order of serving the dishes.

* Parippu Curry
* Sambar
* Avial
* Kalan
* Olan
* Thoran
* Puliinji
* Injithair
* Pineapple Pachhady

* Erissery
* Kootucurry
* Naranga Pickle
* Manga Curry
* Banana Chips
* Sarkarapuratty
* Payasam
* Prathaman
* Lady’s Finger Kichadi

Rice is the main course. With rice, various kinds of dishes are served… curries, ‘upperies’ (things fried in oil), ‘pappadams’ (round crisp flour paste cakes of peculiar make), ‘achchars’ (pickles of various kinds), ‘payasams’ and ‘prathamans’ (Desserts). Fruits are also served, mainly plantain.

Athapookalam(Flower mats)

The ten-day celebrations of Onam start on Atham day. Earthen mounds, which look somewhat like square pyramids, representing Mahabali and Vishnu are placed in the dung-plastered courtyards in front of the house and beautifully decorated with flowers. Known as ‘Onapookkalam’, it is a carpet made out of the gathered blossoms with one or two varieties of foliage of differing tints pinched up into little pieces to serve the decorator’s purpose. It is a beautiful work of art accomplished with a delicate touch and a highly artistic sense of tone and blending. (In a similar manner North Indians make something called “Rangoli” which is made of powders of various colors.) When completed, a miniature pandal, hung with little festoons is erected over it.

Top tourist points in kerala – my view

VAGAMON

Vagamon is a very ideal tourist spot surrounded by the greenery of tea gardens, beautiful meadows, deep puzzling valleys and dales. The enchanting hill station dotted with tea gardens will soon be one of India’s foremost eco-tourism projects.All the trekking enthusiasts will enjoy climbing this 1100 metres tall hill.

This tourist place also has to offer Thangal Para, the Indo-Swiss Project and Kurisumala Ashram. Welcome to a land which would make you come back again and again. So that you could rejuvenate yourself and cherish memories of this enchantinglybeautifulland.

PAYYAMBALAM BEACH

Payyambalam Beach is a beach in Kannur district of Kerala in India that attracts tourists and local people. It often finds mention in tourism related publications as a beautiful beach. It has now a garden close to it. The beach is just 2 km from Kannur town.A sculpture Mother and Child by Kanayi Kunhiraman is an attractive feature of the beach garden. A part of the garden is specially for children.Many movies have been shot in this location including the Maniratnam movie Alai Payuthe.The Worldspace ad featuring A.R. Rehman was also shot here.

MATTANCHERY

Mattancherry is a part of Ernakulam District in Kerala, India.It is a tourist destination. It is surrounded by the backwaters of Arabian Sea.Mattancherry was the first trade hub of the present district.Mattancherry is populated by people from various walks of life and various parts of India & Abroad. There are people who have come and settled in Mattancherry from Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Goa and so on.

Earlier Mattancherry was the trade link to Ernakulam. Main Trade was on spices such as pepper and turmeric. Tea is also traded. Mattancherry deteriorated mainly since the porters working at various firms had some unaccounted trouble with the Merchants. Slowly the traders moved to Ernakulam as Mattancherry proved to be costly. Mattancherry has a Jewish Synagogue, Mattancherry Palace Museum, Jain’s Temple (known as MahajanWadi to localites)and Mosques. Mattancherry Palace Museum hosts different weapons such as swords, spears and various other artilleries such as cannon used to protect the borders from invaders in the historic ages. The museum also hosts various paintings and murals. Near the museum, a private BUS Depot is also present. Close to the Bus Depot there is a Boat Jetty, where we get boats to Ernakulam, FotCochin and Willington Island. There is also Bazaar (Market) where we get to buy different spices and articles used interior decorations.

LAKES IN ALAPPUZHA

Rivers are flowing bodies of waters. There are rivers on every corner of this whole world. Rivers are an important part of the Earth`s water cycle and the sculpting of the Earth`s topography as they carry huge quantities of water from the land to the sea. This district also has a network of rivers, canals and backwaters. Manimala, Pamba and Achankovil are the names of some of the major rivers.
Manimala River:
The river Manimala originates from Mothavara hills in Kottayam district and enters the district at Thalavadi village in Kuttanad taluk.

Pamba River:
Pamba River Of Alappuzha District Pamba which is the third longest river in Kerala is formed by several streams originating from Peerumedu plateau in Idukki district while enters Alappuzha district at Chengannur .

Vembanad Lake:
Vembanad Lake Of Alappuzha District The Vembanad Lake is the most important of the west coast canal system. Its length is 84 Km, breadth is 3.1 Km, an area is 204 Sq.Km. Stretching from Alappuzha to Kochi

Achankovil River:
This Achankovil River is often known as Kulallada River. It originates from Pasukida mettu, Ramakkal Theri and Rishimalai of Kollam district and enters the district at Venmony.

Kayamkulam lake:
This Kayamkulam lake is a shallow lake stretching between Panmana and Karthikappally. This has an outlet to sea at Kayamkulam barrage.

MUNNAR

Munnar is a town located in Kerala state in the southern Western Ghats in South India. The name is often used to refer to the whole tourist area of Idukki District of which the town forms a part. Munnar panchayat of Devikulam block is the largest in the district with an area of 557 km². The name of Munnar is believed to be derived from the Malayalam words Muunu (three) and aaru (river), referring to the town’s strategic location at the confluence of the Muthirappuzha, Chanduvarai and Kundali rivers. The area is surrounded by vast jungles and remains wet and cold during most of the year. The Mattupetty Dam is nearby. The people of Munnar share the culture and traditions of Kerala and their Tamil neighbours.
The territory of Munnar is almost entirely occupied by 30) are owned by Tata Tea, one of the Tata Group of companies. The entire area is known as “high range” and rarely Kannan Devan Hills, from which the famous brand of the Tatas gets its name. In April 2005, the Tata Group decided to divest its holding in the Munnar tea plantations, after which the employees purchased the plantations and are now running the same as Kanan Devan Hills Plantations Company Private Limited.

Many residents are employed in the tourism business. In 2000, the Government of Kerala declared Munnar as a tourist spot. This has helped in attracting more tourists to this beautiful hill resort. Several protected wildlife areas in the area attract many tourists who support the many hotels, restaurants and transport businesses in Munnar.

KOVALAM

Kovalam is a beach town on the Arabian Sea in Kerala, a state in south India. It is located around 16 km outside Trivandrum City in the Thiruvananthapuram district. Kovalam means a grove of coconut trees. Kerala into one of the most important tourist destinations in the world- the Kovalam beach. Kovalam has three crescent shaped beaches separated by rocky outcroppings. Shallow waters stretching for hundreds of metres are ideal for swimming.

The larger of the beaches is called Light House Beach . The second largest one is Hawah Beach named thus for the topless European women who used to throng there. It was the first topless beach in India. Top free bathing and parading is banned now except in private coves owned by resorts.

There are a large number of beach resorts in and around Kovalam. The sea port of Vizhinjam is about 3 km away and famous for its special varieties of fish, old Hindu temples, big churches and a mosque. The Proposed International Trans shipment Terminal at Vizhinjam is also close to Kovalam.

Kovalam was among the most prominent tourist spots in India during the hippy era. It still has a high status among tourists, who arrive mostly from Europe and Israel. Kovalam is finding a new significance in the light of several Ayurvedic salons, and recuperation and regeneration resorts which provide a wide variety of Ayurvedic treatments for tourists.

BAKEL FORT

Bekal Fort is the biggest fort in Kerala, spreading over forty acres. The important features of this fort are the tank with its flight of steps, the tunnel opening towards the south, the magazine for keeping ammunition and the broad and wide steps leading to the Observation Tower which is a rarity. From there one has ample view of towns in the vicinity like Kanhangad, Pallikare, Bekal, Kottikkulam, Uduma etc. This observation centre had strategic significance in finding out even the smallest movements of the enemy and ascertaining safety of the Fort.

The Fort appears to have been built up from the sea since almost three fourth of its exteriors is drenched and the waves stroke the citadel. The Hanuman temple and the ancient Muslim Mosque nearby hold testimony to the age-old religious harmony that prevailed in the area. The zigzag entrance and the trenches around the fort show the defense strategy connected with the fort.

Migraine

A migraine headache is a throbbing or pulsating headache that is often one sided (unilateral) and associated with nausea; vomiting; sensitivity to light, sound, and smells; sleep disruption; and depression. Attacks are often recurrent and tend to become less severe as the migraine sufferer ages.migraine_pic.jpg

Types

Migraines are classified according to the symptoms they produce. The two most common types are migraine with aura and migraine without aura. Less common types include the following:

* Abdominal migraine
* Basilar artery migraine
* Carotidynia
* Headache-free migraine
* Ophthalmoplegic migraine
* Status migraine

Some women experience migraine headaches just prior to or during menstruation. These headaches, which are called menstrual migraines, may be related to hormonal changes and often do not occur during pregnancy. Other women develop migraines for the first time during pregnancy or after menopause.

Incidence and Prevalence

Migraines afflict about 30 million people in the United States. They may occur at any age, but usually begin between the ages of 10 and 40 and diminish after age 50. Some people experience several migraines a month, while others have only a few migraines throughout their lifetime. Approximately 75% of migraine sufferers are women.

Causes

The cause of migraine is unknown. The condition may result from a series of reactions in the central nervous system caused by changes in the body or in the environment. There is often a family history of the disorder, suggesting that migraine sufferers may inherit sensitivity to triggers that produce inflammation in the blood vessels and nerves around the brain, causing pain.

Triggers

A trigger is any stimulus that initiates a process or reaction. Commonly identified migraine triggers include the following:

* Alcohol (e.g., red wine)
* Environmental factors (e.g., weather, altitude, time zone changes)
* Foods that contain caffeine (e.g., coffee, chocolate), monosodium glutamate (MSG; found in Chinese food), and nitrates (e.g., processed foods, hot dogs)
* Glare
* Hormonal changes in women
* Hunger
* Lack of sleep
* Medications (over-the-counter and prescription)
* Perfume
* Stress

Signs and Symptoms

Migraine headache pain is often described as throbbing or pulsating pain that is intensified by routine physical activity, coughing, straining, or lowering the head. The headache is often so severe that it interferes with daily activity and may awaken the person. The attack is debilitating, and migraine sufferers are often left feeling tired and weak once the headache has passed.

A migraine headache typically begins in a specific area on one side of the head, then spreads and builds in intensity over 1 to 2 hours and then gradually subsides. It can last up to 24 hours, and in some cases, several days.

There may be accompanying symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light (photophobia), or sensitivity to sound (phonophobia). Hands and feet may feel cold and sweaty and unusual odors may be intolerable.

Migraine with aura is characterized by a neurological phenomenon (aura) that is experienced 10 to 30 minutes before the headache. Most auras are visual and are described as bright shimmering lights around objects or at the edges of the field of vision (called scintillating scotomas) or zigzag lines, wavy images, or hallucinations. Others experience temporary vision loss.

Nonvisual auras include motor weakness, speech or language abnormalities, dizziness, vertigo, and tingling or numbness (parasthesia) of the face, tongue, or extremities.

Migraine without aura is the most prevalent type and may occur on one or both sides (bilateral) of the head. Tiredness or mood changes may be experienced the day before the headache. Nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light (photophobia) often accompany migraine without aura.

Abdominal migraine is most common in children with a family history of migraine. Symptoms include abdominal pain without a gastrointestinal cause (may last up to 72 hours), nausea, vomiting, and flushing or paleness (pallor). Children who have abdominal migraine often develop typical migraine as they age.

Basilar artery migraine involves a disturbance of the basilar artery in the brainstem. Symptoms include severe headache, vertigo, double vision, slurred speech, and poor muscle coordination. This type occurs primarily in young people.

Carotidynia, also called lower-half headache or facial migraine, produces deep, dull, aching, and sometimes piercing pain in the jaw or neck. There is usually tenderness and swelling over the carotid artery in the neck. Episodes can occur several times weekly and last a few minutes to hours. This type occurs more commonly in older people.

Headache-free migraine is characterized by the presence of aura without headache. This occurs in patients with a history of migraine with aura.

Ophthalmoplegic migraine begins with a headache felt in the eye and is accompanied by vomiting. As the headache progresses, the eyelid droops (ptosis) and nerves responsible for eye movement become paralyzed. Ptosis may persist for days or weeks.

Status migraine is a rare type involving intense pain that usually lasts longer than 72 hours. The patient may require hospitalization.

Career in Advertising

ADVERTISING

“HAVE A BREAK, HAVE A KITKAT”; have you heard it. I think all of us . It’s a famous ad quoting of a confectionery company. The add clicked ,hence the product.

Advertising , in today’s competitive world , has assumed a very important role. To ensure the popularity of one’s product all the companies have to have a very good advertising program so that their products stand a class apart among the many competitors. Advertising is a complete process of research, planning, and public relations to promote a product, service or an idea. Starting from newspapers, magazines and then shifting on to television, neon and fluorescent signboards and moving on to laser shows and sponsoring big events advertising has come a long way. The style of functioning may differ from person to person in this line but the key word to get success & a big name for yourself in this profession is creativity.

CAREER PROSPECTS :

Advertising is one of the most glamorous and well paid professions where you can show your creativity. Apart from the print media, there are great job opportunities in this field in advertising firms, market research, commercial radio & television channels and the advertising department of the big corporate and industrial houses.

COURSE DETAILS :

Courses in advertising can be done after 10+2 or after graduation. A degree or diploma in advertising / graphic designing / marketing / commercial arts can help you enter this challenging field of marketing.

IMPORTANCE OF ADs

Advertising is one of the oldest forms of public announcement and occupies a vital position in an organisation’s product mix.According to the American Marketing Association, Chicago, “Advertising is any paid form of non personal presentation of ideas, goods and services by an identified sponsor.”To advertise means to inform (seen as the flow of information about a product or service from the seller to the buyer). However, advertising does not end with the flow of information alone. It goes further to influence and persuade people to take a desired action – like placing an order to buy a product.The consumer market has become highly competitive with a new brand being born almost everyday. Irrespective of the kind of product you are looking for, be it consumer durables like refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines or fast moving consumer products (FMCG) the number of brands available is truly mind boggling. Naturally it is the prime concern of every marketer to promote their brand as a shade better than the competitors’. Advertising comes in handy here.However, simply informing a customer that a brand exists is not enough. Advertising should be targeted towards the prospective audience in such a way that it forms a positive impact on the customer and in the process creates brand recognition

Hair style

I think self confidence is the totality of many features. A person is building self confidence primarily from his family. In my experience the second important thing is the comments from his friends, companions, relatives, neighbours, lover, etc. There are so many things that helps to develop confidence level of a person. Today let me write something about hair style and how it is related to self confidence level of a person.

To create a beautiful hairstyle, hair care is the most important step and most people fail to maintain the proper treatment and hygiene of their hair. In today’s trendy and busy environment we are constantly over processing our hair, with chemicals, straightening irons and powerful hair dryers, removing the natural oils from our hair.

To repair damaged or over processed hair

Damaged hair becomes coarse, porous, difficult to untangle, breakable… damaged hair is the most fragile. Whatever the causes of the damage, to nourish it is no longer enough, an in-depth restructuring treatment is needed. The products in the interactive hair conditioning range restore damaged hair’s fibre and superficial structures. Hair recovers the appearance, texture and softness of healthy hair.

To protect hair colour and fibre

There is no beautiful colour without healthy beautiful hair. The healthier the hair, the better it retains colour pigments and the more protected it is, the better it will resist damage from external sources. Without specific care, hair colour inevitably fades away.

To prevent hair loss

Stress, fatigue, depression, seasonal variations, pregnancies, surgeries and excess sebum can all cause hair to fall out by weakening the metabolism and causing cells to degenerate. However, the main reason for hair loss is hormonal.

To eliminate dandruff and itchy scalp

Dandruff results from a visible, massive shedding of dead skin cells from the scalp. It is caused by an accelerated renewal of the epidermis. Instead of taking an average of 28 days, the process speeds up to about 14 days. Dandruff conditions often cause itchiness and discomfort.

To regulate excess sebum

Seborrhoea results from an excessive production of sebum, generally due to hormonal imbalances. An excess of oil causes scalp irritation and problems because of its unaesthetic appearance.

History of hair

In the heat of Egypt, noblemen and women clipped their hair close to the head. But for ceremonial occasions heavy, curly black wigs were donned. Women’s wigs were often long and braided, adorned with gold ornaments or ivory hairpins. Men’s faces were generally clean shaved, but stiff false beards were sometimes worn.In classical Greece women’s hair was long and pulled back into a chignon. Many dyed their hair red with henna and sprinkled it with gold powder, often adorning it with fresh flowers or jewelled tiara’s. Men’s hair was short and even shaved on occasion.

In the 15th century – The Renaissance period – the ladies of the upper classes really took ‘plucking’ to its limit! If you think tweezing the odd eyebrow here and there is painful, imagine yourself plucking the entire front hairline away to give the appearance of a higher forehead! The rest of the hair was tightly scraped back to show off the elaborate headdresses of the day.

By the 16th century Queen Elizabeth was the main female icon and set the trends for the era. Her lily-white complexion and red tresses set women everywhere rushing for copious amounts of white face powder and red wigs. The 18th century saw the emergence of elaborate wigs, mile-high coiffures and highly decorated curls. Big hair was definitely the ‘in’ thing and many styles were modelled over a cage frame or horsehair pads – the bigger the better.

INTERVIEW

An interview is a conversation between two or more people (the interviewer and the interviewee) where questions are asked by the interviewer to obtain information from the interviewee. Interviews can be divided into two basic types, interviews of assessment and interviews for information.The most common type of interview for assessment is a job interview between an employer and an applicant. The goal of such an interview is to assess a potential employee to see if he/she has the social skills and intelligence suitable for the workplace. Similar interviews are also used for admissions to schools, allotment of grants, and other areas.

TIPS FOR AN INTERVIEW

Let us discuss about some common questions asked in an interview a how your answer should be:

• Tell me about yourself?

The most often asked question in interviews. You need to have a short statement prepared in your mind. Be careful that it does not sound rehearsed. Limit it to work-related items unless instructed otherwise. Talk about things you have done and jobs you have held that relate to the position you are interviewing for. Start with the item farthest back and work up to the present.

• Why did you leave your last job?

Stay positive regardless of the circumstances. Never refer to a major problem with management and never speak ill of supervisors, co-workers, or the organization. If you do, you will be the one looking bad. Keep smiling and talk about leaving for a positive reason such as an opportunity, a chance to do something special, or other forward-looking reasons.

• What experience do you have in this field?

Speak about specifics that relate to the position you are applying for. If you do not have specific experience, get as close as you can.

• Do you consider yourself successful?

You should always answer yes and briefly explain why. A good explanation is that you have set goals, and you have met some and are on track to achieve the others.

• What do co-workers say about you?

Be prepared with a quote or two from co-workers. Either a specific statement or a paraphrase will work. Say “Jill Clark, a co-worker at Smith Company, always said I was the hardest worker she had ever known.” It is as powerful as Jill having said it at the interview herself.

• What do you know about this organization?

This question is one reason to do some research on the organization before the interview. Find out where they have been, and where they are going. What are the current issues, and who are the major players?

• What have you done to improve your knowledge in the last year?

Try to include improvement activities that relate to the job. A wide variety of activities can be mentioned as positive self-improvement. Have some good ones handy to mention.

• Are you applying for other jobs?

Be honest but do not spend a lot of time in this area. Keep the focus on this job and what you can do for this organization. Anything else is a distraction.

• Why do you want to work for this organization?

This may take some thought and certainly should be based on the research you have done on the organization. Sincerity is extremely important here, and will easily be sensed. Relate it to your long-term career goals.

• Do you know anyone who works for us?

Be aware of the policy on relatives working for the organization. This can affect your answer even though they asked about friends not relatives. Be careful to mention a friend only if they are well thought of.

• What kind of salary do you need?

A loaded question. A nasty little game that you will probably lose if you answer first. So, do not answer it. Instead, say something like, “That’s a tough question. Can you tell me the range for this position?” In most cases, the interviewer, taken off guard, will tell you. If not, say that it can depend on the details of the job. Then give a wide range.

• Are you a team player?

You are, of course, a team player. Be sure to have examples ready. Specifics that show you often perform for the good of the team rather than for yourself are good evidence of your team attitude. Do not brag, just say it in a matter-of-fact tone. This is a key point.

• Have you ever had to fire anyone? How did you feel about that?

This is serious. Do not make light of it or in any way seem like you like to fire people. At the same time, you will do it when it is the right thing to do. When it comes to the organization versus the individual who has created a harmful situation, you will protect the organization. Remember firing is not the same as layoff or reduction in force.

• What is your philosophy towards work?

The interviewer is not looking for a long or flowery dissertation here.

• Do you have strong feelings that the job gets done?

Yes. That’s the type of answer that works best here. Short and positive, showing a benefit to the organization.

• If you had enough money to retire right now, would you?

Answer yes if you would. But since you need to work, this is the type of work you prefer. Do not say yes if you do not mean it.

• Have you ever been asked to leave a position?

If you have not, say no. If you have, be honest, brief, and avoid saying negative things about the people or organization involved.

• Explain how you would be an asset to this organization?

You should be anxious for this question. It gives you a chance to highlight your best points as they relate to the position being discussed. Give a little advance thought to this relationship.

• Why should we hire you?

Point out how your assets meet what the organization needs. Do not mention any other candidates to make a comparison.

• Tell me about a suggestion you have made?

Have a good one ready. Be sure and use a suggestion that was accepted and was then considered successful. One related to the type of work applied for is a real plus.

BinBrain

BINBRAIN

www.binbrain.com is a sincere and bold attempt to help our fellow men to decide , shape and develop their career. You may doubt about the need and scope of such an attempt, as there are many opportunities. But in our opinion though there are many, compared to the requirements it’s nothing.

Goals of BinBrain

career designing

In the modern age the opportunities open to a person is simply unlimited.   But the need is to decide  or to   select an area.  For example   let  us  look at some very common  career opportunities.  Advertising ,Hotel Management,  Agriculture, Interior Designing &Decoration, Anthropology,  Journalism, Archaeology , Law & Civil Services,  Architecture, Library Science and Information,  Systems, Beautician, Management, Pilot, Merchant Navy, Designing & Art Performing Arts, Engineering Photography, Finance & Accountancy, Public Relations, Foreign  Languages  Travel & Tourism etc. Our goal is to help you to pick an area and to shape and develop your career.

Personality Development

We also help you build a strong personality. Five dimensions are involved in forming the human personality. These are :

1) physical self, 2) energy self, 3) intellectual self, 4) mental self, and 5) blissful self. Well-integrated personality is the sum total of harmonious expression of these five dimensions.

Physical self relates to our senses. Proper nourishment and growth of physical faculties is essential by way of balanced diet, recreation, music, and care and concern from near and dear ones. A simple pat on the back for any achievement in life goes a long way to build up confidence.

Energy self is somewhat subtler than the first. It relates to metabolism and the gross manifestations of energy (Prana), for insatnce the act of breathing. The control of Prana is achieved by control of anger, anxiety, and restlessness.

Intellectual self concerns with discriminative power and knowledge, what we call “buddhi”. In addition to sincere and formal studies, reading other books like biographies of great and noble persons and invigorating literature helps us develop this faculty.

Mental self is related to stress and psychology. Here selflessness, control, concentration, and calmness of mind plays essential role.

Blissful self is the function of state of being. It calls for remaining calm and unaffected, nay to remain happy, in all the frivolities of world, in neck break competition and struggle, in calamities and disasters, in suffering and loss, in failure and success.

The five fold method to attain to such state of heightened perfection and purity are a) self-effort, b) self-control, c) self-reliance, d) self-sacrifice, and e) self-knowledge. Next, a practical program is needed to make this ‘intellectual gymnastic’ real in our lives. The simple action plan, to start with, consists of daily physical exercise for ten minutes, reading good literature for half an hour, sincere prayers for two to five minutes, and meditation and yoga for about ten minutes.

Covesation skill

Conversation Skills

An employee with expert technical skills, expertise and experience is considered valuable, whereas an employee with additional talents in conversation skills is an invaluable asset to the company. It is simply not enough in today’s job market to be good at what you do, you must also be able to communicate well with subordinates and authority and possess necessary skills in order to move towards next level within your career track. Your career growth is highly dependent on conversation skills. In fact, a person with less experience and fewer technical skills but who is adept at the art of conversation has a better chance of getting a promotion. Communication is the key to any personal relationship and your professional relationships are no exception to this rule. There is a great deal of value in working with a person who listens well, processes information and expresses clearly. Since conversation and language are the base means by which we all communicate, having excellent conversation skills is a must for any serious professional, no matter what your field of interest is. The art of conversation is only limited by your imagination.

Tips For Having Interesting And Meaningful Conversations

These days, we can communicate in many different ways. We are no longer confined to just the spoken word. Because of the conception of mail, the manner in which human beings communicate has grown by leaps and bounds. Today, the most common form of communication is done via the Internet. Email, blogging, chatting are only some of the many popular forms of communication. How then in this new technological world can a person still have interesting, meaningful, face-to-face conversations? Below are 4 easy tips to help any person have great and substantial conversations.

1. Be interesting

For your conversation to be interesting, you have to be interesting yourself. What does this mean? Being interesting is such a subjective thing. Well, actually, this is a simple thing to achieve. Being up-to-date is one way to be interesting. Everyone loves someone who has something substantial to say because he or she is aware of what is happening around the world. Watch TV, read the newspapers, keep abreast of current events. There are so many things going on around the world that are worth paying attention to. Another way to keep things interesting is to be involved. Join chat groups, or even face-to-face organizations. Stand up for something, even if it is just one or two things that you really feel passionate about. There is bound to be even a couple of items that you love. Or, if you know you are going to socialize, then be prepared. Make a mental list of the meaty things that can be discussed. Bottom line is, no one likes a hot air balloon. If you are going to talk to people, make sure you know what you are talking about.

2. Be confident

So look, you have done all this research. Perhaps you have even gone out of your way to know other things out of the ordinary. Take shelter or refuge in that. Since you know your stuff, chances are you will not go wrong. Opinions are neither wrong nor right anyway. You just have to confident that what you are discussing with the person or people is something that makes sense and is not just a spur of the moment insight without much research support.

3. Keep that smile on your face and on your voice

No one wants to converse at any length, much less have a meaningful conversation with someone who looks grumpy, irritated, or arrogant. Always keep positivism in mind. Remember that even if you aren’t thinking bad thoughts your resting face might not be very approachable or pleasant. One component of interesting and meaningful communication is enjoyment after all. And no one will enjoy the conversation if the person being conversed with is just not great to be around.If this is something difficult for you, then try practicing at home. Talk to yourself in the mirror with a smile on your face. You will be surprised how well this method works in making you a generally more pleasant person to approach and talk to.

4. Be interested

It comes full circle now. Just as you want to be interesting for people, they would like you to be interested as well. The surest way to make the conversation chemistry die is to look, act, and be uninterested in what the other person is saying. This may, at times, be difficult considering not everything a person wants to talk about is necessarily something you would enjoy listening to. But think of it this way, it goes both ways, but the other person was good enough to be attentive to you. A tip for how to make this an easier task is to focus on those things you know well in the conversation and relate to things you know. It is highly improbable that you will find absolutely nothing to comment on during the whole exchange.

So, just by looking at these four tips it is easy to see how anyone can have meaningful conversations. And the best part is, you don’t have to spend anything or exert too much effort to have great talks.

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