Bloody Finale
In life, Phoolan Devi combined the brutal underbelly of India with political fame and glamour. Gunned down in Delhi, her death could become the occasion for a new round of caste conflict in Uttar Pradesh. Phoolan
is being reinvented posthumously.
A report.

Rule Of Outlaw
Dons and politicians enjoy a symbiotic relationship in Uttar Pradesh.

Back To The Trenches
Determined not to let up on its Kashmir-centric agenda, Pakistan has stepped up violence in the Valley. Indian security forces gear up to deal with the situation.

Revenge Of Badla People who lent money to stockbrokers for financing speculators through the badla system find themselves at the receiving end of yet another scam. And with little evidence to nail the accused, chances of recovery are dim.

The Peacenik
S.B. Deuba's rapport with the Maoists helped him become prime minister. Now he has to deal with their radical demands about the monarchy and secularism.

METROSCAPE: LOOKING GLASS

KOLKATA
Restaurant

The most striking thing about Ambi, the 48-cover restaurant that opened last week in Swabhumi, is its decor-it looks amazingly stark with its asymmetrical midnight blue and deep red triangles and gold motifs. "The abstract expression of the Islamic influence on Indian architecture," says a spokesperson. Makes sense? The food certainly does. The chicken dom kokkur, kadhai gosht and the moong masur ki dal are irresistible as is the chicken in hot basil, a Thai dish that seems to have slipped into the menu. Veggies can opt for paneer-malai-dal combos or a thali. But skip the jal jeera, it's not punchy enough. Dinner for two: Rs 500. Call (033) 359-2033.

BANGALORE
Rock Concert

After Deep Purple and Bryan Adams, it is now the turn of German rock balladeers Scorpions to thrill Bangalore crowds. The "heroes of heavy metal" are on a 18 country world tour called "Acoustica Live Tour" and will be accompanied by a 15-member group of orchestral performers who will magnify the band's incredible stage persona with additional musical support.The concert is on August 9. For more details call (080) 222-1275 or log on to proactivepr@satyam.net.in.

MetroScape

Looking Glass

Kolkata Restaurant: Ambi

Bangalore Rock Concert: Scorpions

Starved of resources and bogged down
by mismanagement, pilferage and irregularities, Punjab's civil aviation is in an utter mess. INDIA TODAY's Special Correspondent Ramesh Vinayak reports in
Airsick