Says Sheela Padmanabhan, volunteer with the organisation, ``The idea was mooted a month and a half ago when he was in town. We find that systems - whether social or political - are collapsing around us. While there are social organisations and individuals working for a cause, there will be more of an impact if the issues are addressed in numbers through a common representation''.

The organisation aims to ensure transparency and accountability in governance. On the other hand, through organised action, it also plans to counter public apathy and negligence by creating awareness among citizens of their rights and duties.

Nirdhar has opened registration for membership since February 24 at its Shivajinagar office at an annual membership of Rs. 250 for individuals and Rs. 500 for organisations.

``Citizens ranging from students to retired bureaucrats have already begun inquiring about registration. We expect Seshan to address a public rally on March 10, where plans for Nirdhar will be made clear.'' Citizens, it's time to gear up!

Full Splendour
Fun, Food and Frolic, Splendour Country style. On February 28, The Mela starts at 3.30 p.m. and stretches well into the night. The venue, Splendour Country, is located a little ahead of Kudje village, and is spread over 1,000 acres, overlooking the backwaters of Khadakwasla Lake.

The entertainment includes a breathtaking aero-modelling display by Ashok Bhole, a veteran in the field, games of skill, mouth-watering cuisine and a lively band after sunset to help you dance your blues away. You could make bangles or indulge in some pottery, by using your imagination and skill to design something on the spot, to give you the feel of being part of a carnival. The club has organised a day-membership for non-members, who can enjoy a fun Sunday with family and friends.

The Bard's bad boys
Theatre-Lovers are in for a treat on March 7 with Steven Berkoff's Shakespeare's Villains coming to the city as part of the British Council's 50th anniversary celebrations. To be staged at the IUCAA auditorium, the play is famed for Berkoff's stand-alone and eloquent performance that keeps the audience glued to their seats.

Berkoff holds the stage alone in his outstanding and in-depth exploration and analysis of Shakespeare's most villainous characters - Iago, the Macbeths, Shylock, Hamlet, Richard III... Renowned for his various portrayals as villain in mainstream films like Octopussy, Beverly Hills Cop and Rambo III, Berkoff is in his element here as he delves into the psyche of those inherently evil or then driven towards it, with mind-blowing intensity. A must-see for connoisseurs of Shakespeare and good drama. Passes are available at the British Library on a first-come-first-served basis.

The heart of art
These are canvases with a cause. A painting exhibition to help the Cancer Patients' Aid Association is being held at Holiday Inn from March 5 to 7. The artists exhibiting their works include Pandurang Tathe, Vijay Dupatre, Pratibha Pradhan and Buwa Shete, while Rati Forbes, director, Forbes Marshall, will inaugurate the exhibition. So all those with a keen eye for art and a philanthropic bent of mind, check this out.