From snazzy flash websites for auto buffs to those geared at the stay-at-home mum, the networking zones are widening their expanse. Take for instance, the case of Prithviraj Udayakumar, an engineering student from Anna University, who is now starting up a networking site, RoadSpice, for automobile junkies. He says, “Roadspice will help the users to research on automobiles and provide up-to-date genuine information that is simple and straightforward. So automobile enthusiasts can connect on this forum and share their experiences with each other. I’m working with two of my friends Aditya and a IITM-C final year student, Gokul Badri for this project.”
At a time when Facebook and Twitter are coping with competition the young guns are goading their competitive streak and not letting Zuckerbergs of the world deter their new venture and the effort they put into it. Enabling a thorough connect with likeminded individuals, this form of networking it seems has no limit as there is a new interest group born everyday, large enough to make a website a hit. Mohit S, a 23-year-old freelance graphic designer is working towards an innovative web portal, which can help people find local live music and bond over lyrical conversations. He says, “This site which I’m constructing will be a one-stop-shop for music aficionados. From ticketing to reviews and music trends, the website will grip the music lover from the word go.”
The key motivating factor seems the moolah — firstly to start-up doesn’t cost much and secondly, if it clicks there is no denying the genius of the web. Bhavani Raman, who started Chennaimoms.com, a site that helps moms in the city find out about anything under the sun and make new friends, says, “When I moved to India after a long stay in the US, I needed a lot of information for my family like a good pediatrician for my kids, advice regarding good schools and so on. More than that I also craved for good friends to have fun and get the emotional support a mom always needs. Having used to a lot of networking communities online in the US, I was surprised to find that no such thing exists in India, especially Chennai. Given my IT background, I decided to do create one myself.” Today Bhavani has made friends and even organises stimulating meets with moms and their kids. So what’s with the networking mania in the city? Entrepreneur K. Kaviraj, who started his site, Areapal.com two years ago says, “It is always nice to personalise anything Websites especially which have such a huge appeal pack in a lot more punch when you want to get across your point or garner interest for your cause.” He also adds, “Today programming codes and networking scripts are readily available on the Net. With some reading up, young people can tweak them and personalise the look and feel of their site.”
Young users on the other hand are more than happy with the localised networking culture. Nandhini K.R, a first year student says, “One of my friends started www.hardum.com, a social networking site with a purpose. The site has information about who possesses what and who needs what, which is categorised area-wise and it’s a hit with all of us as it’s extremely useful. I think this networking mania is the coolest thing that has happened to a quiet city like Chennai.”
