New Delhi: It was said in a jocular vein. "You're on the ventilator now. But the plug can't be pulled because euthanasia is still illegal in the country." The nervousness was palpable and titters followed the comment on a conference call that included Vijay Mallya and his most trusted aides. They were trying to figure a way out of the Rs 10,000 crore mess Kingfisher Airlines has accumulated in debts and unpaid bills over the years. Mallya, the chairman of the UB Group, laughed as well.
If there was any panic, it wasnt evident in his voice. But those who've seen him from close quarters say hes mellowed over the last one year. And that the man is fatigued because his back has been up against the wall for a long time now. It's another matter altogether that he has no sympathy or sympathisers"all thanks to his "schizophrenic behaviour" as another aide puts it.
In mid-May this year, Mallya requisitioned staff from Kingfisher Airlines to go to Monaco to help with his 'opening of the season' party on his yacht moored at Monte Carlo. His party, now an annual tradition, was attended by the likes of Antonio Banderas and Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone. The air hostesses kept their smiles on, as they saw their boss burn a few crores on a single night of high-jinks. They hadnt been paid their salaries for the last four months.
But Vijay Mallya has it sorted out in his head.
12:33 PM, Jul 20, 2012
Deepika Padukone who features on Simi Selects Indias Most Desirable this Sunday was initially coy when asked about Sidhartha Mallya. But a few minutes into the show, the actress said, I have known Sidhartha from my Bangalore days he is charming and intelligent. She added, The best part about him is that he is very inconsequential to the Mallya. And one thing Id like to change about him is his...
06:05 PM, Jun 17, 2011
