LIDO CINEMA- Taiping
Another Iconic Landmark to be Demolished

Lido cinema was built by the Shaw Bros. in 1937. Very soon this iconic landmark will be lost.It was a great entertainment centre for young and old, all races and religions during its heyday.

The screening of movies stopped some 20 years ago. Internal renovations took place to suit the business activities, from video games to restaurants and karaoke. But the facade remained intact.

Now the whole place is barricaded and a sign board indicating the development of the site has been put up, According to sources the building will be demolished and in its place a new 2 storey office complex will be built.

Deepavali or Diwali

DEEPAVALI or DIWALI
After reading R.S Kamini's article on "Common misconceptions about Deepavali" in the Rakyat Post I am encouraged to post this comment.

How was this day being declared a public holiday? This holiday could have originated from the early colonial  days. The Chinese celebrate Chinese New Year, the Malays/Muslims celebrate Hari Raya Puasa and the westerners take Gregorian calender 1st day of the year being the New Year. To find a common day for the Indian community to declare New Year is difficult. In Malaya (then) the Indians are represented by several communities, the Tamils, Malayalees, Telegus, Chetties, Brahmins, Sikhs and each community have their own New Year to celebrate. So to avoid any favouritism to any community the British authorities together with the miners and planters chose Deepavali as a common day for the  Indians/Hindus to celebrate.

Even the spelling of Deepavali which we are so familiar since time memorial has evolved into DIWALI. And look at the various greetings in  the adverts in the newspapers.
Whatever it is, the most important message is to wish everyone well on this happy occasion.
 LET THERE BE LIGHT and LET US SEE LIGHT IN TIMES OF HOPELESSNESS!!!

             HAPPY DEEPAVALI or DIWALI to my Hindu Friends.