Monthly Community Paper | www.austinsouthasian.com | 512-828-6709 | Vol. 10 No. 06
Mumbai Indians Win IPL 2017
Mitchell Johnson’s final over heroics helped Mumbai Indians seal their third Indian Premier League
(IPL) title with a one-run win over Rising Pune Supergiant at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad. Mumbai Indians clinched record third IPL title with a one-run win over Rising Pune Supergiant at the
Scripps National Spelling Bee The Scripps National Spelling Bee recently announced the list of state
Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad.(BCCI ) Jaydev Unadkat’s off-cutters sent
Mumbai Indians (MI) off-kilter so much they almost keeled over in Sunday’s IPL 10 final against Rising Pune Supergiant. (Continued On Page 10)
It’s only natural that kids get excited for summer vacation. However, parents may be concerned about
“summer brain drain,” which occurs when students lose the knowl-
Yugadi Bill Gates’ Career Advice 2017 - AKS
Billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates doled out some free advice to the new university and college graduates among his 34.8 million
Twitter followers. spelling champions who will travel to Washington, D.C., to take part in the annual spelling championship competition. (Continued From Page 09)
SUMMER BRAIN DRAIN
In 14 tweets dispatched on Monday, the founder of Microsoft said that artificial intelligence, energy (Continued On Page 10)
Although January 1st is universally accepted as the beginning of a New Year, different cultures around the world also celebrate
the arrival of a New Year according to their own, well-established, religious calendars. Yugadi, as people from the region of Karanataka, India like to refer to their New Year as, is generally (Continued On Page 07)
edge they gained during the school year. Unfortunately, many children show learning losses w h e n they return to school in the fall, and these summer setbacks are cumulative, resulting in increasing levels of learning loss over time, according to RAND research.(Cont...page 11)
SaReGAMA 2017
On April 8, hundreds of talented children and their parents attended the 11th annual talent show SaReGAMA 2017 at Lago Vista Per-
forming Arts Center, organized by the Greater Austin Malayalee Association (GAMA). GAMA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization for Indian Americans, whose objective is to spread the ideals of compassion, care and support, thus preserving culture in the true tradition of peace and brotherhood. (Continued On Page 11)
inside
June 2017
Time To Get Organized.04 Rajkumar Of Pakistan...05 Arun’s Scribblings.........06 5 Camping Essentials....06 Yugadi 2017 - AKS.......07 Malik’s Page........08,16,26 Scrumptious Food And
July 2017
Art And Culture Special
512-828-6709 Rose Wine Pairings.......09 Remodeling Your Outdoor Space? Consider A........11 GAMA-SaReGAMA 2017.11 Tips For Protecting Your Family Against Bites.....12 Safe Summer Driving...13 How Humor..................14 Moms: Common...........15 Children’s Page...17,22,23 WCC...........................18 Unlock Your Energy......19 Doing This Will............20 Community Calendar....21 Recipe Of The Month....25 Tales Of Young Gandhi.25 Miss USA Runner Up....26 Entertainment..............27
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Austin South Asian | June 2017
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Austin South Asian | June 2017
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Austin South Asian | June 2017
Time To Get Politically Organized By Sumaiya Malik
It is easy for a conversation with Saima Siddiqui, director of risk management at PWC, to steer towards politics and social consciousness. Siddiqui is a Pakistani American who has lived in Dubai, Austin, and New York City and currently lives with her family in Tampa, Florida. She is widely travelled and remains up-to-date with current affairs. Recently, she helped keep her local city council blue when the election results went towards a run off in Tampa District 7. Siddiqui rallied the South Asians to ‘wake up and vote’. Some background - District 7 Tampa City Councilwoman Lisa Montelione resigned her seat in November 2016 to run for the Senate elections.
The City Charter mandated that a Special Election be held to fulfill the remainder of her term.
In the elections, a Republican candidate won, but the margin was so low that a runoff was planned for December 6. Siddiqui knew that it was time to really make a difference. She rallied her friends and community. As a result, Luis Viera, the democratic candidate won by 60 votes, a margin so small, yet enough to make a huge difference in the way of governance. What you can do - “The South Asian Community is a force, but they need to organize and participate in their local communities and express their opinion on matters that affect them,’ said Siddiqui who went on to make a minimum list of political action for us: 1. Vote – vote – vote! 2. Contribute to the local candidates you support.
3. Know your representatives. Call them about something that matters to you. 4. Show up at the town halls that your senators/representatives hold. 5. Participate in local protests on issues that matter to you. 6. Support CAIR and ACLU. 7. Volunteer in your local communities and local races. 8. Write letters to your local newspapers. 9. Help to spread the word/rally your friends and family on political issues. Ask them to take action. 10. Read – listen – learn! (This could very well be the first point). It’s never to late to listen to the news and pick up the paper. Local public radio KUT and television KLRU offer unbiased reporting. To know your council members go to http://www.austintexas.gov/ government
Four Latest Books By South Asian Authors For Summer Reading
By Sumaiya Malik
Summer is synonymous with books for most adults and kids when the stress of school is over and summer camps or unstructured activities are in full swing. We have complied a list of much talked about South Asian reads that were recently published this year: EXIT WEST By Mohsin Hamid 231 pages. Riverhead Books. $26. “Mohsin Hamid’s dynamic yet lapidary books have all explored the convulsive changes overtaking the world, as tradition and modernity clash headlong, and as refugees — fleeing war or poverty or hopelessness — try to make their way to safer ground,” says Michiko Kakutani in his NYTimes review of Exit West. Kakutani writes, “Exit West is no exception, recounting the story of the migrants Saeed
and Nadia, who leave an unnamed country in the midst of a civil war and journey to Greece, England and eventually the United States in an effort to invent new lives for themselves.”
in Selection Day, yet his characters manage to be soulful indeed.”
SELECTION DAY By Arvind Adiga 306 Pages. Simon Schuster, Inc. $16.
Hena Khan says in Teen Vogue: Pakistani-American Amina Khokar is experiencing a lot of tumult: Her best friend, Korean-American Soojin, not only wants an “American” name, but also befriends her former bully, Emily; her strict Muslim great-uncle, who is visiting from Pakistan, berates her passion for music as un-Islamic; the Islamic Center where she attends Sunday school is vandalized. In the course of this charming novel, the first release by a new Muslim imprint, the musically gifted Amina literally and figuratively finds her voice with the help of her community, her friends, and her newfound sense of self.
and
“Selection Day, Mr. Adiga’s third novel [about cricket], supplies further proof that his Booker Prize, won for The White Tiger in 2008, was no fluke.,” says Dwight Garner in NYTimes book review. Garner adds, “He is not merely a confident storyteller but also a thinker, a skeptic, a wily entertainer, a thorn in the side of orthodoxy and cant. There’s little ‘Jhumpa Lahiri stuff’
AMINA’S VOICE By Hena Khan For ages 8 – 12. Simon and Schuster, Inc. $10.
THAT THING WE CALL HEART By Sheba Karim For Teenagers. HarperTeen. $10. On the surface, Sheba Karim’s second novel, That Thing We Call a Heart, tells a simple romantic love story: that of Shabnam Qureshi’s summer fling with Jamie, an enigmatic white boy who secures her a summer job at his aunt’s pie shack. But this humorous and touching literary novel explores love in all its forms—from the love between a quirky father and his daughter to the platonic love between spunky Farah, who has recently taken to wearing a hijab (much to Shabnam’s unease), and our selfconscious protagonist. The book is also a love letter to Urdu poetry, which becomes Shabnam’s touchstone during her emotional summer. (Courtesy Teen Vogue) The Austin South-Asian wishes it’s readers a happy summer!
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Austin South Asian | June 2017
Emerging Young Leader Raj Kumar Of Pakistan In Austin
By Sumaiya Malik
means prince. “Every other person
tunity,” said Raj Kumar. He said he had been lucky to get so many opportunities in Pakistan and in the United States. Raj Kumar was born in Omerkot, Pakistan, to a government schoolteacher and his wife. He is one of six children in a family of modest means. He completed his University education with the help of merit scholarships and stood out with his exemplary grades and desire to build bridges.
Raj Kumar, a 24-year-old Szabist University graduate from Pakistan, was in Austin for four days from May 5 to 9 visiting institutions and meeting leaders and professors to learn about social engagement along with 9 other youths from different countries. All ten are recipients of Emerging Young Leaders Award (2017). Raj Kumar is the first Pakistani to receive such an award. The group was a guest of Legacy International and Brave Communities under a State Department program. Raj Kumar and his group participated in professional meetings, received mentoring from local institutions, visited ACC and UT and shared plans of future collaboration. Raj Kumar also was able to meet longtime Austinites Omer Dossani and Dr. Nadeem Malik for dinner and exchange information about future plans and what Austin holds for him. The conversations led to an appointment at the LBJ School at UT to explore options for further studies. The whole idea being to equip a young leader with better tools to lead when he heads back to his home country. The term Raj Kumar literally
is a Raj Kumar if he get the oppor-
Raj Kumar belongs to the Hindu
community of Pakistan. He said in Express Tribune article dated December 2016, “I have always felt like a star of my country (Pakistan) and I feel safe, which is why I am as loyal as any Muslim in the country. Pakistan doesn’t just belong to Muslims; it belongs to all the residents of its soil. Furthermore, there is good and bad everywhere in the world, but one should stay positive.” The Emerging Young Leaders Award is funded by the State Department where 196 countries from all over the world submit their rec-
ommendation for one young leader who is making a positive difference with social engagement in society. Out of these nominees ten are chosen every year that travel as a group to the US, learn the process of mentoring through exchange of ideas and programs and take back a wealth of knowledge to apply in their own countries. Raj Kumar, a twenty-four year old, smart young Pakistani is the first to ever receive an award from Pakistan.
Mayor Steve Adler Attends MCSS Fundraiser For Refugees By Sumaiya Malik We are one month away from World Refugee Day (June 20), a day when the United Nations will launch its #WithRefugees to send a message to governments that they must work together and do their fair share for refugees. Austin has been in the forefront in those cities in the US that welcome refugees. The local government has continued the resettlement program when many cities in the US have tried to close their doors. The City of Austin gives monetary and in-kind assistance to the refugees for the first six months upon arrival. When that time runs out, the refugees are expected to have found a job and stand on their feet. However, this is never the case The efforts of the city are supported by local charitable organizations like the MCSS, which take up most of the load of the refugees when the first six months of city support are done. MCSS continuously raises funds through Zakat collection and through their annual fundraiser to meet the needs of the refugees. This year, Muslim Community Support Services (MCSS) hosted their annual fundraiser at the Norris Center on Anderson Lane on Saturday, May 13. About 150 people of all ethnic backgrounds
attended the function. MCSS has supported refugee resettlement from the time it was formed in
the year, 2000. “Now, with such a strong government crackdown on helping refugees, the communities commitment to helping refugees integrate and settle into Austin is greater than ever,” said Anjum Hanafi, an MCSS volunteer and MC of the evening. Mayor Steve Adler and his wife came to attend the annual Muslim Community Support Services Annual benefit for the refugees. Also attending was FBI Special Agent Charles Rasner, Islamic Outreach Coordinator in Austin. Mohsin Lari, the founder of MCSS talked about the history of MCSS and the
four major roles the organization plays: refugee resettlement, job opportunities, legal and emotional
counsel, and the Muslim cemetery. Lari talked about sudden jump in the number of refugees who are living in Austin. According to the City of Austin website there are currently 12,000 refugees in Austin. Most of the refugees who arrive depend upon government support and that of charitable organizations, which take up the work after the first six months of support from the city. Six months are insufficient to make the refugees who don’t even speak English stand on their feet and take up employment. That is when organizations like MCSS step in to fill the gaps.
One would assume that the gaps that the government is unable to fill regarding taking care of the refugees would be filled by the nonprofits in the city, but it is actually the other way around said Mayor Steve Adler who attended the fundraiser with his wife. The government seems to be filling the gaps and most of the funding comes from organizations supported by donors like the audience who care about the refugees and welcome them. “Austin has not changed,” said Mayor Steve Adler, even though many cities in the rest of the US have with the change in attitude towards the arriving refugees. Diane Kenawati, the head of the refugee assistance brought forth real stories of refugees. She talked about success stories and progress and some success stories came forward to share their story with the audience at MCSS. The speeches were followed by the auction and donation drive. MCSS raised $110K in a short span of time. Auction included paintings by acrylics artist Ambreen Ahmed. The City Hall also took part in the auction. One could bid for a day at the City Hall. That was a popular item on the list. Comedian Azhar Usman entertained the guests. Dinner was catered by Mezbaan Restaurant of Houston.
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Austin South Asian | June 2017
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Austin South Asian | June 2017
Yugadi 2017 - Celebrating The New Year With Austin Kannada Sangha numbers. It was impossible to sit still and the audience danced fervently during the whole concert.
We wanted the event to bring as much joy to our members as the memories of celebrating the festival with their loved ones back home and we hope we accomplished just that! All in all, AKS Yugadi 2017 will remain an event to remember for a long time. (Continued From Page 01) celebrated around late March/ early April based on either the lunar/ solar calendar. This festival, usually one of the first celebrations in the year, denotes happy beginnings and is best enjoyed with friends and family. To help spread the spirit of this joyous festival, Austin Kannada Sangha hosted a huge Yugadi event on Saturday, March 25th and invited its nearly 500 members in town to come together as a community and celebrate. It was especially heartening to see a mélange of Austin old-timers and newbies both socializing and making new acquaintances. The event kicked off at noon and lasted for several hours. It was a delightful afternoon replete with delectable food, a festive ambience and amazing entertainment with a star- studded finale! It began with an elaborate South-Indian lunch catered from local restaurants and sweets imported all the way from Bangalore. It was followed by a variety of cultural programs such as dance, music and drama by enthusiastic member participants. Some of the performances also had a good social message which was appreciated by the house-full audience. After the first segment of cultural programs, there was a break for high-tea during which an unexpected surprise unfolded. A highlyenergetic group of folks went on to do a flash-mob performance that was not only amazing but served as a perfect segue for the most anticipated segment that was to come next- an exclusive concert by Raghu Dixit! Raghu Dixit (http:// www.raghudixit.com), a popular artist from Karnataka has travelled
around the world as an exponent of contemporary, Indian folk music. He and his band enthralled the crowd with their upbeat, popular
New Tips To Ease Recovery From Addiction Those recovering from an addiction know what a major challenge the process can be on the body and mind, as well as on the wellness of friends and family supporting your endeavor. While a physician should be consulted in working out a recovery plan, there are steps one can personally take to smooth the road ahead. Thinking Positively Recovery is an ongoing process, and won’t be resolved overnight. Knowing this can help you stay motivated when the going gets tough. Acknowledging but also forgiving yourself for past mistakes is a good place to start. Including family and friends who have been affected by your addiction in this healing process is important. Feeling Your Best Addiction puts major stress on the mind and body. Good nutrition and proper sleep can restore your
body’s systems and processes. Seek out a diet that contains probiotics, which replenish the digestive system with beneficial bacteria that may have been depleted as a result of toxins and chemical overload, poor diet, bodily stress and overall poor digestive health. B-vitamins are needed to energize metabolism and proper cell and muscle function, and fish oil with omega-3 fatty acids is proven to support cognitive function and brain health, joint health, heart health, eye health and more. However, keep in mind that it can be difficult to satisfy all of one’s nutritional needs under normal circumstances, and can be even more challenging when your body is recovering from addiction. In addition to a healthy diet, consider seeking out supplements designed specifically for people in recovery, such as Recovery24, which was developed by addiction recovery experts and a board-certified nutritionist. Recovery24 is
designed to replenish your body’s nutrients and support sleep, energy, healthy digestion, and overall wellbeing around the clock. The special formulation contains key nutrients such as probiotics, B-vitamins, fish oil, chamomile, jujube fruit, lemon balm leaf, phosphatidyl serine and antioxidants. The A.M. packs are taken with the first meal of the day and support sustained energy and mental focus. The P.M. Packs are taken 30 minutes before you go to sleep and support a calm, restful sleep. The road to recovery is challenging and loved ones may also experience their own stresses, sleeplessness and nutritional gaps. Recovery24 supplements are safe and effective even for those not in recovery. More information can be found at TryRecovery24.com. Get Active Your road to recovery should involve new hobbies and interests. Start with some fun, physical ac-
tivity to get your body moving, get healthier and boost endorphins. Whether it’s training for a 5k or joining a pick-up game of basketball in the park, exercise is a crucial component to your overall wellness. Get Involved Consider joining other local organizations -- from being an involved member of a religious congregation to participating in a local volunteer group to taking art or music classes at a community center. It’s important to stay focused on positive, healthy activities and goals, and make friends and connections with people who are doing likewise. Experts know that addiction recovery requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the mind, the soul and the body. While recovering from addiction, take the best care of yourself possible to support your goal. (StatePoint)
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Austin South Asian | June 2017
Relax it’s Only Ramadan – And Fun facts!
By Sumaiya Malik When a colleague picked up his
boxed meal during a late afternoon meeting during Ramadan, I followed him and picked mine, only
skipping the drink counter. I took care to check for the ingredients in the box to avoid pork products, but picked a box up even though I was fasting. We all sat down in a large circle and went over the agenda after exchanging pleasantries. I was all the time conscious of my fasting, but did not feel the need to bring it up as really Ramadan is about carrying out business as usual while avoiding eating or drinking any water from dawn to dusk and praying and paying closer attention to good deeds, charity and character building.
How To Help Meet Your Retirement Income Goals Most Americans care about enjoying a financially comfortable
ers tips for setting oneself up for income in retirement.
goals,” says Brian Kroll, head of Annuity Solutions at Lincoln Financial Group. • The majority of people age 65 and older will need some form of long-term care, which can amount to a tidy sum. However, having long-term care insurance can help guarantee that you will have the resources to pay for such medical expenses as they arise, while protecting the savings and income you’ve worked so hard to build.
retirement, yet almost two in five people express concerns over whether they will have enough money to live the lifestyle they want, according to new research on savers from Greenwald & Associates and CANNEX. It’s never too early to plan, and now is a good time to understand the value of financial advice and how such investments as an annuity with guaranteed lifetime income can help to meet your retirement income needs. To help, Lincoln Financial Group is offering consum-
• Diversify your retirement portfolio to help create income certainty. This may include transitioning a portion of the savings you’ve built through an employer-sponsored retirement plan – like a 401(k) – and other savings vehicles into a dependable income stream, such as an annuity. “Now more than ever, savers should consider solutions that offer guaranteed lifetime income to further diversify their portfolios and help them reach retirement income
• Consult with a financial advisor, who can point you toward retirement solutions that may help provide income certainty and financial protection. “Today’s savers face longer lifespans and less access to pensions,” says Kroll. “Safety nets like social security can no longer be relied on as a sole source of income in retirement.” For more information, visit lfg. com/annuities. Creating a well-rounded retirement income plan and guarding your savings against risk can help toward a comfortable retirement. A qualified advisor can help you make these preparations knowledgeably and with confidence. (StatePoint)
I was attempting to do all that by not even announcing my fast. It felt good inside.
of fasting during which Muslims may not eat or drink during daylight hours.
I was happy that no one noticed that I hadn’t opened my box.
There were approximately 1.6 billion Muslims worldwide as of 2010.
I, on the other hand, did notice that at least four of the fifteen people in the meeting had not opened their box either. It is actually a common occurrence that in such scenarios some find it easier to just go on with the meeting and eat after, as multitasking isn’t their thing. Or because of dietary restrictions, eat in in their set way, which works out well for us ‘Rozdaars’ or fasters (if that is actually a word). The meeting soon came to an end and I carried my box with me relishing the thought of opening the box at iftaar (time to break the fast) at sunset. This year Ramadan is expected to begin on May 26 and end on June 25 depending upon the lunar calendar. The Roza will be about 15 hours long with suhoor (time to start) at 5 a.m. and iftaar at 8:28 p.m. The good news is that at least school and classes at the university will be out. CNN has posted Ramadan Fast Facts on the link below: http://www.cnn.com/2013/06/05/ world/ramadan-fast-facts/ Ramadan is the Islamic holy month
The population is expected to increase to 2.8 billion by 2050. There were about 3.3 million Muslims in the United States as of 2015. Ramadan is celebrated as the month in which the prophet Mohammed received the first of the revelations that make up the Quran. During Ramadan, Muslims abstain from food, drink (including water), and sexual intercourse from dawn until dusk. Muslims are encouraged to eat a meal before dawn, and then break the fast immediately after sunset. The fast is traditionally broken by eating dates and drinking water. The end of Ramadan, called Eid al Fitr, is a day of feasting. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Muslim year. Ramadan begins with the sighting of the new moon, but the exact date often depends on clerics in a particular nation. The Ramadan fast is one of the five pillars, or basic institutions, of Islam.
Austin South Asian Invites Contributions From Readers And Community
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Austin South Asian | June 2017
Scripps National Spelling Bee Inundated With Indian American Spelling Whiz Kids
(Continued From Page 01) The spelling bee, which has been won by an Indian American each year dating back to 2008, including co-winners in the past three years, features a plethora of Indian Americans vying for the spelling title. This year’s possibility of co-winners is far less likely as the competition will use a test to break ties. Spellers will sit for a written tiebreaker test before they begin spelling words in the primetime finale, with results revealed only if two or three spellers get through the entire final round (see IndiaWest article here). At least 75 of the 291 spellers who will compete at the national contest are of Indian or South Asian origin. Among the spellers competing at the May 31 to June 1 competition are Sharanya Pastapur of Lake Zurich, Ill.; Aashray Mandala of Grand Haven, Mich.; Shaheer Imam of Catonsville, Md.; Dhruv Kaderu of Fishkill, N.Y.; Asha Chauhan of Elmwood Park, N.J.; Nikil Shyamsunder of Winchester, Va.; and Aditya Chezhiyan of Bristow, Va. Also competing are Vasundara Govindarajan of Miami, Fla.; Sohum Sukhatankar of Allen, Texas; Rohan Sachdev of Cary, N.C.; and Shantanu Edgaonkar of Tokyo, Japan, who schools at the Global Indian International School. Other Indian Americans and South Asian Americans include Tanay Nandan of Short Hills, N.J.; Ashwin Prasad of Carmel, Ind.; Ria Sai of Mechanicsburg, Pa.; Ishaan Akula of Morganville, N.J.; Varad Mulay of Novi, Mich.; Vithul Ravivarma of Sammamish, Wash.; Sameera Hussain of Porterville, Calif.; Samhita Kumar of Gold River, Calif.; and Shreeta Vachhani of Bourbonnais, Ill. Additional competitors include Chinmay Bapat of Audubon, Pa.; Hanna Ghouse of Kenosha, Wis.;
Adith Joshua George of Sidney, Ohio; Mira Dedhia of Western Springs, Ill.; Vanya Virmani of Fredericton, New Brunswick; Arin Bhandari of West Haven, Ct.; Haris Rana of Fort Smith, Ark.; Arsh Shah of Palm Harbor, Fla.; Paarth Tara of Mebane, N.C.; and Krutik Patel of Rocky Mount, N.C. Additional Indian American and South Asian American contestants include Sahil Langote of New Castle, Del.; Shrinidhi Gopal of San Ramon, Calif.; Mia Ashriem of Brook Park, Ohio; Manjeet Nirula of Silver Spring, Md.; Tejas Muthusamy of Glen Allen, Va.; Siddhant Sharma of Downingtown, Pa.; Nikhil Lahiri of Painted Post, N.Y.; Sravanth Malla of Haverstraw, N.Y.; Samuel Thomas of South Bend, Ind.; and Sreeniketh Vogoti of Saint Johns, Fla.
Padhy of Cherry Hill, N.J.; Srikar Chamarthi of Odessa, Texas; Devesh Shah of Wheeling, W.V.; and Aisha Randhawa of Corona, Calif.,
Additionally, Ishreet Lehal of Terre Haute, Ind.; Shourav Dasari of Spring, Texas; Anika Gundlapalli of Odessa, Texas; Rishi Padmanabhan of Tampa, Fla.; Alex Iyer of San Antonio, Texas; Ananya Vinay of Fresno, Calif.; Nabil Zaman of Saginaw, Mich.; Samuel Paul of Collierville, Tenn.; Akshra Paimagam of Charlotte, N.C.; Shruthika
the competition at local levels.
The 291 spellers come from roughly 11 million spellers who started
(Courtesy: IndiaWest)
Scrumptious Food And Rose Wine Pairings A good rosé wine is evocative of beautiful days dining outdoors, although it’s increasingly being en-
Also moving on to the national competition are Akilan Sankaran of Albuquerque, N.M.; Harshita Shet of White Plains, N.Y.; Neil Dave of Lakeland, Fla.; Aditya Badlani of Oak Brook, Ill.; Saketh Sundar of Elkridge, Md.; Surya Dodia of Naples, Fla.; Rutvik Gandhasri of San Jose, Calif.; Akshansh Ajay Kumar of Kitchener, Ontario; Raksheet Kota of Katy, Texas; Reshmi Balakrishnan of Fairfax, Va.; Siyona Mishra of Orlando, Fla.; and Tara Singh of Louisville, Ky. Naysa Modi of Monroe, La.; Ashrita Gandhari of North Andover, Mass.; Abhiram Kapaganty of Suwanee, Ga.; Tanvi Rakesh of Florence, Ky.; Riya Joshi of Chicago, Ill.; Srivatsav Vuppala of Perrysburg, Ohio; Rohan Rajeev of Edmond, Okla.; Anmol Bhatia of Greenbrook, N.J.; Jashun Paluru of West Lafayette, Ind.; and Rishubh Kaushal of Sterling, Va., will also be in D.C. for the competition.
will be competing for the title.
plexity and vibrant red fruit, notes of wild strawberry and fresh crisp acidity, it is a nice accompaniment to these f o o d pairing ideas f r o m NYCa r e a based Sommelier, Chantelle Pabros, w h o is also sharing tasting notes for each selection.
“The pop of the vinaigrette is what makes this pairing work.
And at a price point of $13.99, is a great value for ev-
Jadot Rosé can also be served with a fuller-flavored fish with a richer sauce, such as mushroom and herbs; the wine would still stand up to it.
joyed year-round.
eryday enjoyment!
And if you love this pink treat, you are in good company, as French rosé wine purchases in the US were up by over 77 percent in 2016.
• Prosciutto di Parma and Charcuterie: “The glossy, buttery texture of the prosciutto couldn’t be a better match for rosé in terms of texture, and the cured meats brings out the red fruits -- wild strawberries and golden raspberries.”
While rosé is refreshing on its own, you can elevate your experience by picking a great, affordable bottle and refreshing food pairings to match. Start by selecting a delicious highquality wine that is food-friendly—such as the one from Maison Louis Jadot, the number one selling French wine in America. They just launched a rosé nationwide in the US: the Jadot Rosé 2016. With its uniquely aromatic com-
• Mussels, White wine, parsley, garlic, and a baguette: “The minerality of the rosé shines with the mouthwatering broth and steamed mussels. The acidity also comes into play perfectly.” • A simple mixed salad: Include thinly sliced shallots, a vinaigrette of Dijon mustard, lemon juice, aged balsamic vinegar, E.V.O.O, Maldon salt and pepper.
When the shallots have a chance to marinate in the dressing it gives incredible flavor to the salad. The rosé won’t be overpowered by the vinaigrette either. It balances well.” • Pan Roasted Cod: “I found a beautiful piece of cod at the market, which I pan roasted with lemon zest, thyme, butter, fleur de sel, pepper. Flaky and perfectly cooked, this was the best pairing by far. The rosé took on a juicy, crisp dimension, almost like biting into a luscious plum.”
Pabros also notes that you can serve this wine with quail, soy flavors, or even spices if properly balanced. In the mood for something else? Consider the crisp, fruit-forward Jadot Beaujolais-Villages alongside light red meats and grilled or roasted white meats, or enjoy the floral, apple and citrus aromas of Macon-Villages with poultry, shellfish, grilled swordfish and salads. Take your seasonal dining to the next level with delicious food and wine pairings that take advantage of the flavors and textures of both elements. (StatePoint)
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Austin South Asian | June 2017
Mumbai Indians Beat Rising Pune Supergiant, Become 3-time Champions With IPL 2017 Win
(Continued From Page 01)
bati Rayudu at the point boundary.
And then Mitchell Johnson produced a last over so brimming with hostility that despite conceding a first-ball four, MI managed to win the title by one run off the last ball. (RPS vs MI HIGHLIGHTS)
In his disappointment, the RPS
Chasing 130 for their first IPL title, Rising Pune Supergiant (RPS) seemed to be in control but the famed MI bowling attack never really let them break loose. 23 was needed off the last two overs and RPS took 12 off the 18th bowled by Jasprit Bumrah with an inside-out six helping skipper Steve Smith bring up his half-century. (RPS vs MI SCORECARD) Manoj Tiwary then hit Johnson for four but just when all seemed lost, the Australian pace ace struck off successive deliveries. Tiwary holed out to Kieron Pollard and Smith, having anchored the chase so well, was caught by Am-
skipper didn’t cross and that meant Washington Sundar had to face Johnson. He managed to scoot a bye and then Dan Christian took a two after Hardik Pandya dropped a stiff chance. The last ball saw a misfield but RPS were never going to run three to force a tie. After a case of never giving up despite putting up a low score --- RPS
hit their first six in the 16th over --MI players huddled so hard after Sundar was run out that it seemed someo n e would get hurt. They are the only t e a m to have w o n three IPL titles and Rohit Sharma the only player to have won this four times. Ajinkya Rahane (44) and Smith had stabilised RPS’s chase after Rahul Tripathi’s early dismissal, a dodgy decision because replays showed Bumrah’s delivery would have missed the stumps. After Rahane went, skippers past and present, MS Dhoni and Smith, couldn’t take RPS home and then the jitters jeopardised chances of bowing out on a high. It also meant that Pandya brothers, Hardik and Krunal, wouldn’t eventually be vilified for dropping catches. And that Krunal’s 47 and his eighth-wicket stand of 50 with Johnson would make the difference between victory and defeat.
Dan Christian then produced a runout even more spectacular to dismiss Karn Sharma. Another good effort in the field from Shardul Thakur ensured there wouldn’t be a silver lining to Rohit’s form in this edition.
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Bill Gates’ Career Advice To New Graduates, In 14 Tweets (Continued From Page 01) and biosciences are “promising fields” for young people who are just starting their careers.
This after an evening show that looked to be going wrong almost from when MI elected to bat.
But his tweets mostly focused on personal growth, telling the future generation of workers and leaders to surround themselves with people who encourage and challenge them.
RPS bowlers got everything right and encapsulating the effort was Sundar, conceding only 13 in his four overs after opening the bowling with Unadkat.
Gates said he measures his own happiness by “whether people close to me are happy and love me, & by the difference I make for others.”
And they were backed by some tigerish efforts on the field with Smith leading from the front.
Gates also suggested a book titled “The Better Angels of Our Nature,” which he said was “the most inspiring book I’ve ever read.”
Smith ran out Ambati Rayudu when he and Rohit seemed to be rebuilding the innings after Unadkat had sent back the MI openers with off-cutters and, in the case of Lendl Simmons backing that with a fine catch, in the space of three balls.
Between the seventh and the 13thovers, RPS used spin for all but one over to choke MI. That RPS fell to an even better bowling effort tells you that not always does the ball play bridesmaid in T20. (Courtesy: HindustanTimes.com)
The bestselling book by Steven Pinker outlines how violence around the globe has declined over centuries and puts into context the wars, murders and other violent crimes that occur in the modern era.
Gates, who runs the charitable Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation with his wife, said the idea that the world is getting better, as Pinker argues in his book, “sounds crazy, but it’s true.” “That matters because if you think the world is getting better, you want to spread the progress to more people and places,” he tweeted. Since Gates’ tweetstorm, sales of “The Better Angels of Our Nature” surged on Amazon. Gates wrapped up his advice by tweeting: “This is an amazing time to be alive. I hope you make the most of it.” (Courtesy: www.ctvnews.ca)
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GAMA’s Annual Kids’ Talent Show - SaReGAMA 2017
(Continued From Page 01)
GAMA organizes a variety of cultural and charitable events through-
The current GAMA president, Mr. Shankar Chandramohan welcomed the audience, and the event was kicked off at 11:00 am.
SaReGAMA 2017 was inaugurated by the 4th president of GAMA, Mr. Renil Chandy.
The day consisted of a variety of musical and dance performances by children of various age groups ranging from 5 to 18 years. The children competed in events
Off stage, participants and audience were also treated to a mouth watering array of authentic South Indian food including a variety of dosas by Madras Pavilion.
son by adding warmth, provide a visual focal point around which to gather, and offer an opportunity to personalize the space. And if you are looking for a great return on investment, this addition can be beneficial when it’s time to sell: an outdoor fireplace can increase a home’s value up to $3,500, according to the Marshall & Swift Residential Cost Handbook. For free resources on selecting the right fireplace for you, visit fireplaces. com/outdoor. (StatePoint)
SaReGAMA 2017 concluded with a vote of thanks message by Lisa Thomas, Secretary of GAMA. Sivaprasad Valappil (Vice President of GAMA), and Bipin Ravi (Treasurer) distributed the prizes for the winners of the stage competitions conducted that day, as well as for the visual and literary arts competitions conducted on February 25. For more information, please visit www.gama-austin.com
(Continued from page 1) “Parents can keep minds sharp by creating fun summer learning opportunities at home,” says Dr. Clement Chau, director of learning for VTech and LeapFrog, home to a number of educational learning products.
just six books during the summer may keep a struggling reader from regressing, according to the Scholastic Kids & Family Reading Report. Make reading a daily habit in your home.
Differences Between SAT and SAT Subject Tests By Ryan Murphy Now that May is almost here, students are beginning to prepare— and even take—their AP and IB exams. This means that the season of the SAT II, or SAT Subject Tests, is upon us. SAT II? SAT Subject tests? What is SAT I? How is this SAT different from that SAT? What do AP/IB exams have to do with any of this? All valid questions, and ones I am happy to answer. The SAT test that most colleges require you take, the so-called “main” SAT, also goes by the name SAT I. Then there is a second set of tests, SAT Subject Tests that are also called SAT II. SAT I, Redesigned SAT, New SAT: • Critical Reading & Writing, Math, and (optional) Essay • 200-800 CR/WR and 200-800 Math scores, and three 2-8 Essay
scores • 3 hours and 50 minutes (including Essay, excluding breaks) SAT II, SAT Subject Tests:
• 21 different subject tests, including mathematics, science, history, English, and foreign languages • One 200-800 score per Subject Test • 1 hour The reason that AP and IB exams figure into when students take SAT Subject Tests is that SAT Subject Tests and AP/IB exams share many content areas (and often even have similar formats). So students who have been preparing for, say, the APUSH exam can also take the SAT Subject Test for U.S. History. Why would anyone take SAT Subject Tests? Depending on which college you’re applying to, you may be required to submit 1-3 scores—typically ones related to your desired major. In other cases, the scores aren’t required, but they
Remodeling Your Outdoor Space? Consider A Fireplace While all homeowners may wish they had unlimited resources to make upgrades, most people need to prioritize a bit due to time and money. For many these days, the goal is extending living and entertaining areas outdoors: 56 percent of homeowners are making updates to improve their yards for entertaining, according to a Houzz Landscaping Trends study.To that end, the number one design element in outdoor renovations is a fire feature. This could be because outdoor fireplaces extend the sea-
such as Instrumental Music, Classical and Non-classical Vocal, Eastern Classical Dance and Bollywood Dance. The performances were evaluated by experienced judges who are experts in their respective areas.
out the year with the intention of bringing the community together.
Austin South Asian | June 2017
can help round out your college application and highlight your dedication to a particular subject. Sample of College Requirements: • Rice – 2 SAT II test scores • Stanford – recommended but not required • UChicago – a plus but not necessary The verdict? If you’re required to take the Subject Tests, then it’s a no brainer, and if you plan on applying to Ivy League or Top-Tier universities, then it will most likely be required for at least one of those schools. If you want to boost your application, then it definitely helps to have a couple Subject Tests listed in your score report. And you know what’s great about subject test? You can miss several questions and still get a perfect 800 score. So there is less stress with preparing and taking the test. Have at it and show off your knowledge!
SUMMER BRAIN DRAIN
To help families avoid summer setbacks, Chau is offering the following ideas and tips. • Visit a library. Many libraries offer summer reading challenges which can prove to be great motivation to crack open a book. Enlist the expertise of librarians to help children find titles they’ll enjoy, and use the “five-finger” test to be sure your child has books at the proper reading level: read one page of a book; if there are more than five unknown words, have your child choose another book. • Learn about a new topic. Has your child been collecting rocks when playing outdoors? Does he or she like to point out different shapes of clouds in the sky? Encourage children to research and learn more about the subjects that fascinate them. If they are passionate about a topic, they’ll be more likely to seek out more information. • Set aside required reading time. On average, children who read more than 20 minutes a day scored above the 90th percentile on standardized reading tests, and reading
• Look for teachable moments. Going to a baseball game? Show your child how to calculate a batting average or a pitcher’s ERA. Making dinner? Let your child measure the ingredients. Clipping coupons? Show your child how much money will be saved in your grocery budget. Going on a road trip? Look up some fun facts about the different states you’ll see on license plates. • Read together. Forty-eight percent of children ages six to eight report that they want adults to read aloud to them, even though they are able to read on their own, according to the Scholastic Kids & Family Reading Report. Use this time with your child to discuss the topics in the book and ask questions that help build critical thinking skills. Try such prompts as: Tell me about your favorite character. What was your favorite part of the book and why? Would you recommend this book to a friend? “With a fun focus on learning, you can help children stay academically active all summer, which will help ease the transition back to the classroom in fall,” says Chau.
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Austin South Asian | June 2017
Tips For Protecting Your Family Against Bug Bites
From hikes to picnics to relaxing in the hammock, nothing ruins summer fun quite as fast as bug bites. Unfortunately, bug bites are more than just a nuisance. They can trigger allergic reactions in some people, and may transmit diseases like Zika Virus, Dengue Fever, West Nile Virus and Lyme Disease. Taking these precautions this summer can help the whole family stay bite-free.
Lyme Disease expert, Dr. Michael Jacobs, MD says “When shopping
concentrations provide protection for eight hours and longer.”
For outdoor enthusiasts, DEET is the best-selling active ingredient in the U.S. For a trusted choice, consider Ben’s Tick & Insect Repellent, the first brand to register a 10-hour, 100 percent DEET formula with the EPA. The brand also offers an eight-hour, 30 percent DEET water-based formula that is made to evaporate slowly -- so repellent stays on longer with little absorption into the skin.
Drain the Swamp
Cover Up and Be Smart
Standing water can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Walk around your property after rainfall or after watering the lawn and take note of areas that are not draining properly or are catching and holding water in objects like garden buckets, lids and frisbees. The smallest puddle of water can breed mosquitos. Drain everything you find.
Make your skin less vulnerable to bug bites with smart fashion choices. When outdoors, particularly in wooded areas, wear loose-fitting long sleeves and pants. Light colors are a good choice, as mosquitoes seem to prefer darker clothing.
Choose the Right Bug Spray
for insect repellents look for those with the active ingredients DEET or Picaridin, two of the most effective active ingredients at preventing bug bites. Stronger concentrations of the active ingredient in the formula will give you more hours of protection. For example, a 10 percent DEET or 7 percent Picaridin formula provides one to two hours of protection, while higher
Safe for pregnant and breast-feeding women, and a popular choice for families, Natrapel Tick & Insect Repellant uses the CDC recommended 20 percent Picaridin active ingredient and provides up to 12 hours of protection against mosquitoes and ticks. This formula is also safe on gear and comes in variety of sprays and wipes for easy application.
HC4A SCHOLARSHIPS
Compiled by Harish Kotecha It is unfortunate that over 21% of Manor population lives in poverty (city-data.com).
Since 2012, HC4A has been donating school supplies working with the Jewish community to homeless children in Manor. In 2014, a vocational training scholarship HC4A launched scholarship program. Last year 15 students received scholarships. This year the same number of students applies and were awarded $500 each scholarship last month. This program will helps students
get a vocational occupation within 6 to 24 months that in turn leads to higher paying jobs. Here is what one recipient of the scholarship said: Thank you Hindu Charities for America for helping me support my educational journey. By winning this scholarship, I will be able to become an Auto Mechanic with a certification to fix cars. Currently I am enrolled at ACC in the Auto Mechanic Certification Program. I also work at Auto Zone to fund my education as well as work on cars on my own to get the hands on training. With this certification, I will be the first person in my family to do something with my life past high school… Manor High School Scholarship Recipient The beneficiaries of HC4A program are grateful to the Austin communities, for their support to bridge income disparity through education.
Why Me? Have you ever felt you were being eaten alive by mosquitoes, while everyone else around you remained unaffected? There are
many factors that can make one person more appealing than another to mosquitoes. And some are beyond one’s control, such as blood type and genetics. However, mosquitoes are attracted to sweat, so don’t forget the deodorant. They also seem to prefer beer drinkers, according to a study by Japanese researchers. Vacation or Staycation
Get savvy when traveling. Research your destination so you know what types of insects you can expect to encounter. Staying nearby? Remember, most species of mosquitoes in the U.S. are busiest at dusk. During those hours, take extra precautions to avoid becoming their meal. This summer, stay safe and comfortable by thinking about these strategies. By doing so, you will keep the bugs at bay so you can. (StatePoint)
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Austin South Asian | June 2017
Safe Summer Driving Tips For Teens And Young Adults
Warm weather means more young drivers on the road as they head to summer jobs, parties and embark on road trips. Often, young drivers feel invincible, but they shouldn’t take their safety for granted.
pressure improves fuel consumption and helps prevent uneven wear of tires. It also offers drivers better control, which is important for
Manufacturers Association survey.
To test pressure, wait until tires are cool -- a minimum of three hours
• Check tire tread. Proper tread depth helps maintain traction, improves handling of the vehicle and prevents hydroplaning. To check it, insert the edge of a penny into the most worn groove of the tire tread, with Lincoln’s head down and facing the driver.
Many experts say driver safety begins with tires, as they are the only thing connecting a car to the road. To help teens and young adults stay safe on the roads this summer and all year long, Cooper Tire & Rubber Company and the National Organizations for Youth Safety (NOYS) offer these tire safety tips. • Check tire condition. Damaged tires can shorten tire life and even cause tire failure. Visually check tires for cuts, cracks, splits, punctures and bulges. If any of these conditions are spotted, or if there are any doubts about the condition of the tires, have them professionally inspected. • Check tire pressure. Proper air
If the reading is lower than the recommended level, add air and check again. Once the recommended pressure is reached, replace the valve cap.
If the top of Lincoln’s head is covered by tread, there is at least a minimum acceptable amount of tread. If the top of his head is visible at any point, it’s time to replace the tire. those with less experience behind the wheel. More than 50 percent of American vehicles have at least one underinflated tire, according to a Rubber
A reading will pop up on the gauge.
• Make it a habit. Technology can prepare young drivers for safer driving. For example, the free Tread Wisely app from Cooper Tire and NOYS, informs users how to check their tires using helpful
Then, call the phone number you
block the number. Your carrier may
after driving. Then, remove the tire’s valve cap and press the top of a tire pressure gauge firmly on the valve stem.
videos and allows them to set automatic monthly reminders to perform tire checks. Other videos on the app instruct young drivers how to change a flat tire, what to do if they are in an accident, and how to handle other issues on the road. The app also includes a unique “I got there” feature, which reminds young drivers to let parents or friends know after they make it to their destination safely, using preloaded text messages. More tire tips and information about the Tread Wisely app can be found at TreadWisely.org. “As a parent, you can’t help but worry,” says race car driver Johnny Unser, whose teen daughter Loni uses the Tread Wisely app. “However, you can give your kids the tools and information they need to succeed out there on the road.” (StatePoint)
What To Do To Stop Unwanted Phone Calls
Whether you use a landline, mobile phone or both, you’ve likely received those pesky robocalls -- phone calls that use a computerized auto-dialer to deliver a prerecorded message. As a consumer, here is what to know about this common annoyance to your home or personal line. • Robocalls are often illegal. However, keep in mind that some robocalls are permitted, such as companies you have done business with under certain circumstances, medical appointment confirmations and school closing calls. Political and charitable calls are among others that also may be allowed, along with banks and telephone companies, provided those companies make the calls themselves. Remember, many robocalls illegally disguise, or “spoof,” their Caller ID information or violate other rules. • Advocates are working to mitigate the problem. For example,
NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association and its members of more than 800 independent, community-based telecommunications companies are working to provide information to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Robocall Strike Force to further develop and implement solutions to detect, assess and stop unwanted calls from reaching customers.
They range from mobile apps for wireless phones to devices you can plug into your home phone jacks in order to block robocalls to your wireless phone.
• Never respond to a robocall. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recommends that if you receive a robocall, simply hang up.
The FTC encourages consumers to report unwanted calls to www. donotcall.gov or 1-888-382-1222. Complaints may also be filed with the FCC online or 1-888-CALLFCC (1-888-225-5322).
They also warn consumers not to press any number to speak to a live operator or to unsubscribe from the list, as this will tell the robocaller that it’s reached a live number. • Don’t give out personal information: If you receive an unsolicited call from any company, including one you do business with, tell them that you will not give them information until you verify the call is legitimate.
• You can use technology to block calls. Various companies offer products or services that help you control what calls ring on your phones.
More information can be found at ntca.org/robocalls and fcc.gov/ consumers/guides.
know or that you get from the company’s website to confirm. • Ask your phone company to
be able to block certain numbers, although robocallers frequently change and disguise their numbers.
As a consumer, you have more power than you may realize to control who calls you and when. Thanks to new resources, you can take concrete steps to help put a stop to robocalls. (StatePoint)
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Austin South Asian | June 2017
How Humor Can Improve Lives
You’ve probably heard the old adage, “laughter is the best medicine.” Well there’s some truth to that.
nationwide for $1 each, with all profits from all sales benefitting the Red Nose Day Fund.
The fund supports programs that help children living in poverty in the U.S. and internationally, work-
The Mayo Clinic cites a number of health benefits from laughter, such as pain relief, stress relief and an improved immune system. Indeed, this concept is being applied in a number of ways. In medical care, doctors are even prescribing laughter as medicine in a treatment known as laughter therapy.
ing with non-profit organizations such as the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, charity:water, Children’s Health Fund, Feeding America, Gavi, The Vaccine Alliance, National Council of La Raza, Save the Children and The Global Fund.
“First off, be sure to visit Walgreens.com for more information about upcoming events, including fun Facebook live activations every Friday afternoon where you can donate and influence what happens in real time.”
To spread the word, Walgreens is inviting people across the country to wear noses on social media, and to tag their photos and posts using #RedNose and #Walgreens on Twitter or Instagram.
The Red Nose Day campaign will culminate in a night of special television programming celebrating Red Nose Day on May 25 starting at 8 p.m. ET on NBC.
So, consider grabbing some friends who make you smile, and take a fun and silly selfie for a cause. Additionally, weekly Red Nose challenges can help you raise even more money and awareness.
Charities are also getting in on the fun. In the world of philanthropy, light-hearted, comedic fun is helping children in poverty. The best part? Anyone can get involved.
“One of my favorite things about Red Nose Day is how easy it is to get involved, but if you are looking for ways to do more, there are definitely opportunities,” says blogger, Alexis Middleton of Persia Lou.
From now until June 3, 2017, Red Noses are available at all Walgreens and Duane Reade locations
For more information on Red Nose Day and how to get involved, follow Walgreens on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. There’s no doubt about it. Humor, laughter and having fun can boost your quality of life; and these days, there’s not only evidence that it’s good for you, there are also opportunities to do good while you’re at it. (StatePoint)
6 Non-Motor Symptoms Of Parkinson’s Disease That May Surprise You Those familiar with Parkinson’s disease (PD) are likely aware of the disorder’s most visible symptoms, including slower movements, impaired balance, rigidity/ stiffness and involuntary shaking.
seeing groups of people or animals that in actuality are not there. As hallucinations become more frequent, people with PD may become unable to distinguish what’s
and in people with Parkinson’s, delusions often have paranoid themes. For example, a person with Parkinson’s might make accusations
However, Parkinson’s, which is a neurodegenerative brain disorder, can cause a range of non-motor symptoms, which can bring about a new set of challenges for people with Parkinson’s and their caregivers.
3. Cognitive Changes. As explained by the National Parkinson Foundation, problems with attention, inability to focus on planning, difficulties with memory and language, and personality changes characterize the cognitive changes that can take place over time with PD.
It’s important to learn more about these non-motor symptoms, such as hallucinations, delusions and mood disorders, so you can be sure to discuss them with your doctor. 1. Hallucinations. More than half of all people with Parkinson’s will experience hallucinations or delusions over the course of their disease. Hallucinations can cause people to see, hear, or experience things that aren’t real. For example, people with Parkinson’s commonly report
reporting them to their doctors, possibly due to embarrassment or not understanding that the symptoms are associated with PD and the majority of the discussion is focused on motor symptoms.
real and what’s imagined and react to their hallucinations. Hallucinations can lead to increased patient and caregiver distress, and even nursing home placement.
about their spouse or someone else trying to access their life savings. Another common delusion is even a longtime spouse committing adultery.
2. Delusions. Delusions are false beliefs not supported by evidence,
Studies have shown that many experiencing these symptoms are not
4. Sleep Disorders. A range of sleep disorders are often associated with PD. They include insomnia, restless leg syndrome, talking or moving during sleep and excessive daytime sleepiness. Sleep disorders can impact overall health and well-being. 5. Mood Disorders. Depression, anxiety and irritability can also affect those with PD. In fact, one study showed that up to 40 percent of people with Parkinson’s will ex-
perience some form of anxiety during the course of their illness. 6. Additional Non-Motor Symptoms. The non-motor symptoms of PD are numerous, ranging from vision problems to hypertension to loss of sense of smell. These symptoms can also appear before a PD diagnosis and should be noted. More information about Parkinson’s disease and its non-motor symptoms, such as hallucinations and delusions, can be found at www.parkinson.org. While there is currently no cure for Parkinson’s disease, there are different treatment options, as well as assistive devices, to address motor and non-motor symptoms. When people with Parkinson’s and their loved ones report the variety of symptoms that might be associated with the disease, it can help determine what treatment option is best for them. (StatePoint)
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Austin South Asian | June 2017
Top Tips For Physical Fitness And Sports Month
Staying active doesn’t just keep a waistline in check, it benefits every part of the body, including the brain. May is Physical Fitness and Sports Month and the perfect time to renew your commitment to staying fit. Here are some top tips to get moving more this month and beyond.
workplace.
If your job keeps you sedentary, break up the day with a brisk walk outdoors during lunch. Throughout
short break spent being physically active can help boost your overall productivity.
• Get Out of Town. Skip the gym
tools include a compass, altimeter and barometer.
• Gear up. New tech gear is helping support people’s efforts to get outdoors and stay fit, so consider gearing up before your next adventure.
• Try Something New. Change up your fitness routine from time to time to avoid hitting a plateau.
For example, Casio’s PRO TREK WSD-F20 Smart Outdoor Watch is water-resistant and equipped with GPS capabilities and a full-color map display.
• Rethink Your Commute. Leave the car keys at home and lace up your sneakers instead.
Users can download maps in advance to continue getting navigation guidance even when they are offline or out of range.
Commuting to work by bike is a great way to bookend the work day with some aerobic activity. • Take a Walk. Even the most adventurous weekend warriors are sometimes required to sit or stand in place for long stretches in the
park, there’s nothing like getting your exercise fix in nature.
the day, stretch your legs with a loop around your work station. It sounds counter-intuitive, but a
and plan a day or weekend trip dedicated to physical fitness. Whether it’s hiking a nearby trail, kayaking a local river, or doing yoga in the
Vital information, such as travel speed, elapsed time and distance, is close at hand without checking your smartphone -- making it a good choice for cyclists. Other
This will keep things mentally interesting so you don’t lose interest in exercise. What’s more, a new class or activity may “surprise” your body by working different muscles in a new way. With a few simple strategies and the right tools, incorporating fitness into your life can be fun and easy. (StatePoint)
Moms: Common Reasons You May Be Packing On Pounds A pizza crust here, a chicken nugget there. Can eating leftovers off your child’s plate really add up? The answer is yes. Eighty-one percent of moms with kids under 18 admit to eating off their kids’ plates before, during or after a meal. What’s more, one in three say they eat less healthfully now than they did before they became a parent, according to a new survey conducted on behalf of Nutrisystem by Harris Poll. Some of the top foods moms are guilty of eating off their kids’ plates are chicken nuggets, pizza crust, French fries, potato chips, mac and cheese, pancakes and cupcakes. “While those few bites may seem inconsequential, the extra calories can really add up over time, and may be detrimental to weight maintenance and weight loss efforts,” says Courtney McCormick, corporate dietitian at Nutrisystem. On average, eating those leftovers on your child’s plate once a day for one week can add up to more than 400 additional calories. Nibbling at
that rate equals nearly six pounds per year! To help moms make healthier choices, McCormick is offering the following tips.
caloric choices. For example, opt for the blueberries and carrots instead of the chicken nuggets.
• Eat mindfully. Be aware of just how much food you’re picking from your child’s plate.
• Save it for later. If you feel the urge to eat leftovers because you can’t stand to see food get wasted, then save your child’s leftovers and serve it to them later as a snack or meal.
Include this food in your daily calorie count and rethink your eating throughout the rest of the day. Consider forgoing a snack or eating less at a meal.
• Eat while they eat. If you’re picking at your child’s plate because you’re hungry, then try to have your own healthful snack or meal to eat while your child is eating.
• Reassess your child’s portions. If your child consistently has leftovers, reassess portions.
Make sure you choose items for your diet rather than just select the same foods your child is eating.
Look at your child’s hands for guidance -- protein such as meat, fish and chicken should be the size of their palm; fruits and veggies should be the size of two palms; healthy fats like cheese, nut butters and avocado should be the size of their thumb (from knuckle to tip); and pasta, rice and other grains should be the size of their fist.
More wellness tips can be found on Nutrisystem’s blog “The Leaf,” at leaf.nutrisystem.com.
• Be picky. If you do find yourself grabbing leftovers, go for the less
Parenthood doesn’t necessarily need to translate to weight gain. With a few smart strategies, you can keep your calorie needs in balance and your weight in-check. (StatePoint)
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Austin South Asian | June 2017
Restaurant Review: The Halal Corner Of Mueller Community
By Sumaiya Malik
Tucked in at the corner of Barbera
Shawarma, Sheesh Kabab, Tabbouleh, hummus, egg plant dip
easy spots on the menu.
The friendly staff suggested the mixed grilled plate, which I gladly ordered. Two colored containers on the counter intrigued me. They were not listed on the menu. Two circulating juice dispensers rested near the cash register. “One is Tamarind juice and the other, lemon mint and peppers,” said the server, as she poured samples for me to taste. They were delicious! The Lemon pepper had the right zing! It was also a cheerful change from the usual traditional menus.
Jordan Boulevard and Lancaster, in the cozy Mueller community of Austin is a surprise restaurant called The Halal Corner – Kismet 2 Mediterranean Café. As the name suggests, the owners of famous Kismet Café, which used to be on 24th Street near UT, own the Halal Corner.
with Gyro and Kafta Kabob were
“It’s Jordanian, “ said our server adding, “the owners are originally
Bloating is not only uncomfortable, but it can be particularly in-
your ability to break down and metabolize food. Examine your diet
A spacious blue room with large sunny windows welcomed us in. Casual and clean, we followed the cue to order off the menu listed above the counter. Mediterranean it was!
Service was quick as Shawarma, the popular item on the menu, was being cooked right behind the counter and the chef was slicing off the meet strips as it cooked. I sipped my juice as my husband tried the Turkish coffee, both of us relishing each moment as we sat on a clean wooden table by the large window. Later when his Shawarma and my
foods, and way too much sugar in just about everything made in a factory, it’s important to bring awareness to how your body handles certain ingredients. A holisticminded, general medical practitioner can help you identify the food sources that make your gut more likely to swell. • Consider digestive enzymes. The enzymes in your digestive system break down food so it can nourish your body. Sadly, the number of enzymes in your body decreases as you get older or more stressed out, which opens the door for gas, bloating and irregularity.
I have to confess that I did not expect a Zabiha and Halal restaurant in the modern Mueller neighborhood.
Standing in a brand new building in a strip mall near Home Depot along with other restaurants like Smash Burger and La Madeleine, the Halal Corner seems to have established repute in a short span one year.
The restaurant was busy. Customers were coming in and going out, some choosing to sit in, and others doing a takeout.
mixed grill arrived, we had enough food to share and enjoy. I would not go back for the Lentil soup, but over all the experience was relaxing and pleasant. We shared a baklava as I took in the ambiance. This surely was a place to go if I happened to be in the neighborhood. There is also a conscious effort on the part of the owners to keep the prices low to make sure their doors remain open to all clientele. http://www.thehalalcorner.com/ 1200 Barbara Jordan Blvd #300, Austin TX 78723 512-480-0048
5 Simple Ways To Naturally Relieve Bloating
My husband and I found the restaurant while driving around looking for something to eat when we happened to be in the neighborhood and found this brand when we least expected it.
“Times have changed,” I smiled to myself as we parked right in front of the easily available parking in front of the structure.
from Jordan and wanted to reflect that in the menu.” I had noticed the picture of Jordanian landscape near a window when I had entered.
convenient when you want to look and feel your best in the summer. While symptoms can seem unpredictable, there are simple and natural ways you can prevent and relieve both bloating and gas. • Up your fiber. You’ve probably heard that fiber is essential for your digestive system. What you may not know is that certain types of fiber called prebiotics feed the bacteria in your gut. Without enough of it, your microbial diversity can be limited, negatively impacting
and add whole foods rich in prebiotic fiber, or find a food-based prebiotic supplement to ensure you’re getting enough each day. • Eat mindfully. Overeating, as well as eating too quickly, causes air to get trapped in your digestive tract. Eat mindfully and slowly. It’ll help you feel fuller faster and keep your abdomen in-check. • Know yourself. Follow your gut and understand what works and what doesn’t for your body. From gluten and dairy to nuts and fried
Consider taking an enzyme supplement or eating more enzyme-rich foods such as raw fruits and veggies. Also, be sure to find some time to shake off daily stress. • Support your microbes. Gas and bloating are inevitable if your gut health isn’t in great shape. Unfortunately, many aspects of modern life can deplete the beneficial bacteria we’re meant to have and create a microbial imbalance. The good news? Taking an effective probiotic supplement is one of the most powerful steps you can take toward
achieving a lifestyle free of gas and bloating. Doing so can also support overall wellness, giving you more energy, improving digestion, strengthening your immune system, and even optimizing your metabolism. Banish the bloat by trying a premium probiotic formula designed to survive stomach acids like Hyperbiotics PRO-15 which can now be found at your local Target store. With 15 different strains of healthenhancing bacteria and a patented time-released delivery method, the sensitive probiotic organisms are released over an eight-to 10-hour window so that they bypass the acidic environment of your stomach and arrive at their destination alive, where they can set up shop and get to work supporting your digestion at its core. To learn more, visit hyperbiotics. com or join the conversation on social media at #followyourgut. For a summer of confidence and comfort, take steps to support your wellness and relieve dreadful gas and bloating by focusing on your digestive health. (Statepoint)
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Austin South Asian | June 2017
Qutb Minar - The Monument Of The India Qutub Minar is a minaret that forms part of the Qutb complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Mehrauli area of Delhi, India. Its design is thought to have been
Indian subcontinent. The minaret is named after Qutb-ud-din Aibak, or Qutbuddin Bakhtiar Kaki, a Sufi saint. Its ground storey was built over the ruins of the Lal Kot, the
Panchatantra Tales - The Story Of The Blue Jackal
Once, there lived a jackal named Chandarava. One day he was very hungry, and could not find any food. So, he wandered into a nearby village in search of food. The dogs in the village saw the
running away? Don’t be afraid. Brahma, the Lord of all creations, has me made me himself, with his own hands. Brahma said to me, ‘The animals in the jungle do not have a proper king. Go to the jungle and protect the animals.’” “That is the reason I have come here”, he continued, “Come and
chased away. And so it went, while the smaller animals would serve him with his other needs, the lions and the tigers would go out to hunt for prey, and place them before the jackal every day. He would then distribute the food amongst other animals, and himself. In this manner, he discharged his royal duties, for all the animals under his kingdom. Quite some time elapsed in this way, and there was peace between animals. One evening, the ‘blue’ jackal heard a pack of jackals howling at a distance.
based on the Minaret of Jam, in western Afghanistan. Made of red sandstone and marble, Qutub Minar is a 73-metre (240 feet) tall tapering tower of five storeys, with a 14.3 metre (47 feet) base diameter, reducing to 2.7 metres (9 feet) at the peak. It contains a spiral staircase of 379 steps. Qutb al-Din Aibak, founder of the Delhi Sultanate, started construction of the Qutub Minar’s first storey around 1192. In 1220, Aibak’s successor and son-in-law Iltutmish completed a further three storeys. In 1369, lightning struck the top storey, destroying it. Firoz Shah Tughlaq replaced the damaged storey, and added one more. The Minar is surrounded by several historically significant monuments of the Qutb complex, including Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, which was built at the same time as the Minar, and the much older Iron Pillar of Delhi. The nearby pillared Cupola known as “Smith’s Folly” is a remnant of the tower’s 19th century restoration, which included an ill-advised attempt to add a sixth storey at the top of it. Qutb Minar was established along with Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque around 1192, by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, first ruler of the Delhi Sultanate. The mosque complex is one of the earliest that survives in the
Unable to overcome his natural instinct, he was so spellbound that he was filled with tears of joy. He immediately sat up, and began to howl like every other jackal.
citadel of Dhillika. Aibak’s successor Iltutmish added three more storeys. The minar’s topmost storey was damaged by lightning in 1368 and was rebuilt by Firoz Shah Tughlaq, who added another storey. In 1505, an earthquake damaged Qutb Minar; it was repaired by Sikander Lodi. On 1 September 1803, a major earthquake caused serious damage. Major Robert Smith of the British Indian Army renovated the tower in 1828 and installed a pillared cupola over the fifth story, thus creating a sixth. The cupola was taken down in 1848, under instructions from The Viscount Hardinge, then Governor General of India. It was reinstalled at ground level to the east of Qutab Minar, where it remains. It is known as “Smith’s Folly”. An inscription in Persian at the mosque’s inner eastern gateway states that material used in its construction was salvaged from the demolition of twenty-seven of Delhi’s Hindu and Jain temples. Pillars from these demolished temples were used in the mosque, with their iconography intact. The nearby Iron Pillar from the Gupta empire, which predates the Islamic minar and still bears its Brahmic inscriptions, survived as part of the Qutb complex.
jackal, and a group of dogs surrounded him, barking and attacking with their sharp teeth. The jackal started running to save itself, but the dogs chased. In an attempt to flee from the dogs, he ran into a house, which belonged to a washerman.
live in peace in my kingdom and under my protection. I have been crowned the King of all three worlds (Heaven, Earth and Hell)
When the lion and the other animals heard this, they realized how he was only a jackal and how they have been fooled all the time. They held their heads down in shame,
There was a big vat of blue dye inside. As he jumped without knowing, his entire body was dyed in blue colour. He no longer looked like a jackal. Frustrated, he came out. When the dogs saw him again, they were unable to recognize him anymore. Fearing that it was an unknown animal, they became terrified and ran off in all directions. The disappointed jackal went back to the jungle, but the blue dye would not come off. When the other animals in the jungle saw this blue-coloured jackal, they ran away in terror. They said to themselves, “This is an unknown animal, and we don’t know the strength of this new animal. It is better to run away.” When the jackal realized that all the animals were running away. He called back at the frightened animals and said, “Hey animals! Why are you
The other animals were convinced, and they surrounded him as his subjects, and said “O Master, we await your commands. Please let us know whatever you want”. Story Of The Blue Jackal - Panchatantra Story PictureThe ‘blue’ jackal assigned specific responsibilities to every animal. They were mostly on how to serve him. But he did not have anything to do with the other jackals, and did not want to come near them in fear of being recognized. So, the jackals of the jungle were
but only for a moment - because, they became very angry on the jackal for fooling them. They angrily said to each other, “This jackal has fooled us. We will not let him live anymore. He should be punished.” When the jackal realized, he tried to flee from them. But the animals got hold of him and he got severely beaten by them. The wise indeed say: One, who treats his own people with scorn, shall surely suffer a bitter end.
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Austin South Asian | June 2017
Washington Cricket Center (WCC) Takes Crucial Steps To Strengthen Women’s And Youth Cricket Development In The DC Metropolitan Area With ACF Coach Certification Clinic
ACF Director of Coaching Jatin Patel (2nd from Left) and WCC founder & Owner Dr. Ajith Silva (2nd from right) join some of the newly certified coaches and Instructors.
USA. Hope to attend more such training sessions in the future”. Says Erfan Syed, ICC level 1 coach.
The Washington Cricket Center based in Laurel, MD (Between Baltimore and Washington DC) recently hosted a weekend-long American Cricket Federation (ACF) Level 2 & Level 1 Instructor cricket coaching certification clinic.
About the American Cricket Federation Cricket (ACF) Coach Certification Program The ACF Cricket Coach Certification Level 1 program was launched in May 2014, followed by the Level 2 certification program one year later in June 2015.
The recent coaching clinics were conducted by ACF’s Director of Coaching Jatin Patel that produced 6 Level 2 coaches with Level 1 Instructor capabilities with plans to offer year round Level 1 coaches training at the WCC.
Since the launch, 19 States can now boast of having certified ACF cricket coaches, with nine States having certified instructors for Level 1 coaches.
It is a crucial first step towards providing an adequate number of trained coaches to help develop the potential of the youth and women cricketers in the Washington DC & surrounding areas. WCC is aiming to provide year around academy support for all who need to explore their skills & capabilities. Interest is very high in Youth and Women’s cricket in Maryland, Virginia, Washington DC & surrounding areas. Youth after school cricket programs and inschool cricket instruction programs are increasing rapidly in the area.
The American Cricket Federation is a 501(c) 3 not-for-profit organization
most popular sport. The WCC currently owns both indoor and outdoor facilities to support cricket development and year around training. WCC facilities are recognized as being among the finest in the country.
However, this new development is being hampered by the lack of certified cricket coaches in the area.
The complex has its own indoor and outdoor facilities with four side-by-side cricket fields, all with newly built natural turf pitches with (Bermuda grass) and is about to add a 5th cricket field in the same complex that can be used for youth and women’s cricket.
Encouraging and expanding the number of coaches is a vital part of WCC’s mission to promote cricket in the area and the USA.
It also has matting pitches and one ICC approved non-turf match wicket, practice nets and a clubhouse.
The coaching clinic held by ACF was an attempt to address that deficit.
WCC’s activities are geared to achieving its formal mission: To promote the sport of cricket by conducting games and tournaments for cricketers nationally and internationally, and to enhance development opportunities for cricketers in general and youth and women cricketers in particular.
The Washington Cricket Center and its nonprofit arm, The Washington Cricket Center Academy (WCC Academy) were founded in 2014 by Drs. Ajith and Priyanthi Silva. WCC Academy is a not-for-profit, tax-exempt organization under section 501(c) (3) of the revenue code. They began this initiative with a vision to promote the game by providing state-ofthe-art facility support and opportunities to learn, play and enjoy the world’s second
“It was so great to see and learn from a very knowledgeable Coach Mr. Jatin Patel. I am connected with this game for 40 years, still I felt like a kid when Coach Mr. Patel took us to a very interesting know how- to of this wonderful game! In simplest way.
ACF deserves lots of praise and appreciation for this kind of cricket coaching here in the
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Austin South Asian | June 2017
‘Make Music Day’ Is Coming: How To Get Your Family Involved
The benefits of music education are endless. Studies have associated music education with higher test scores, improved concentration and more.
the karaoke machine.
chance to perform. Sing instead of
But if you are a parent, you probably know how it goes: many children will begin a music program with enthusiasm, only to complain about practicing a short time later, sometimes even asking to quit.
To learn more, visit casiomusicgear.com.
You don’t necessarily need to find a class designed for parents and kids, although there are plenty of such classes available.
• Attend a live performance. Take time to simply appreciate music.
• Use new tools and tech. New tools can be used at home to make music fun. For example, Casio keyboards feature a Dance Music Mode, which divides the piano keyboard into different instrument sections, like drums, bass and more.
Music should never be a chore, however. In honor of Make Music Day, celebrated June 21st, here are tips for parents to incorporate music into their family routine in ways that are fun and positive. • Plan a music night. Create an evening where all activities revolve around music. Take turns at
spire by example by taking a music class with your child.
Play a music-themed trivia game. Hold a family concert night or talent show where everyone gets a
speak. Watch a favorite musical. • Take a class together. You can in-
Fifty built-in styles, as well as familiar effects like stutter and filter, make it easy and fun for anyone to create and remix dance music.
rwSample different musical styles and broaden your horizons by attending live concerts and shows. • Play name that tune. In the car with the radio playing? Play “Name that Tune.” Keep a running tally of who knows the most songs. By making music fun, your children will be more likely to reap the benefits of making and enjoying music their entire lives. (StatePoint)
6 Tips For Throwing A Great Outdoor Party Unlock Your Energy Throwing the perfect party outdoors requires a bit of precision. Here are six great ways to keep
2. Pump up the jams. Have guests request a few of their favorites to create a playlist that everyone enjoys, or use a streaming app. To pump up the tunes, use waterproof Bluetooth speakers. 3. Create ample seating. Depending on the number of guests you are expecting, you may need to increase your seat count.
guests happy, comfortable and entertained. 1. Keep bugs away. You can keep bugs at bay naturally with a bit of strategic gardening. Plants that ward off bugs include lavender, marigolds, and rosemary. Plant these varieties in and around areas where you entertain guests.
Rent additional tables and chairs, or take a trip to a local secondhand shop and give used outdoor furniture some love with a makeover. Benches and inexpensive poufs work well in a pinch, too! 4. Play games. If kids are attending, you may want to set up some games to keep them occupied. Chalk and bubbles can create hours of enjoyment, or get out the classics like corn hole and
horseshoes.
Through Yoga
5. Show a movie.
Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev
After a day in the sunshine spent grilling and playing games, kick back and relax with an outdoor movie.
I have heard you say that yoga is the Ultimate Expression… what is that?
Elevate your backyard theater experience with a high-quality projector designed for home use such as those from Casio’s line of LampFree Projectors.
When we say “yoga,” probably for many of you it means some physical postures: twisting yourself into some impossible postures. That is not what we are referring to as yoga.
The XJ-F210WN from the Advanced Series, for example, features intelligent light control that adjusts projection brightness accordingly. Inflatable screens are available to rent or purchase and make a great choice for outdoor use. Or you could simply use a wall or an extralarge sheet. 6. Create ambience.
Yoga means to be in perfect tune. Your body, mind and spirit and the existence are in absolute harmony. When you fine-tune yourself to such a point where everything functions so beautifully within you, naturally the best of your abilities will just flow out of you. When you’re happy, your energies always function better.
Street lights, hurricane lanterns or tealights create a warm and inviting ambience.
Do you see that when you’re happy you have endless energy? Even if you don’t eat, if you don’t sleep, it doesn’t matter; you can go on and on.
Use lighting both to stylishly set the mood and allow the party to continue even after the sun goes down. (StatePoint)
Have you noticed this? So just a little happiness is liberating you from your normal limitations of energy and capability.
Now, yoga is the science of activating your inner energies in such a way that your body, mind and emotions function at their highest peak. When your body and mind function in a completely different state of relaxation and a certain level of blissfulness, you can be released from so many things that most people are suffering from. Right now, you come and sit in your office, and you have a nagging headache. Your headache isn’t a major disease, but it takes away your whole capability for that day. Just that throbbing takes away everything. With the practice of yoga, your body and mind will be kept at their highest possible peak. There are also other dimensions to yoga. When you activate your energies, you can function in a different way. As you are sitting here right now, you consider yourself to be a person. You are identified with many things, but what you call as “myself” is just a certain amount of energy. (Continued On Page 20)
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Austin South Asian | June 2017
DOING THIS WILL HELP YOU SLEEP BETTER
New research finds only 14% of people said they get enough sleep By Jacob Passy
Feeling sleep-deprived is becoming common in the U.S. A third of Americans don’t get the recom-
People who live in places where they get more sleep earn 5% more than people in locations where
Bad news, yogis: Your relaxing meditation may not be helping you get a better night’s sleep.
Electronic devices aren’t the only thing keeping people up at night, of course. A recent poll found that 44% of American workers lose sleep over worrying about work, with one in four claiming this happens to them a minimum of once a week.
People who engage in high-impact exercise are twice as likely to get enough sleep as people who participate in lower impact activities, according to a recent report from mattress company Restonic, which obviously has a vested interest in people spending more time in bed.
Gender also plays a role in who sleeps best — with 38% of women feeling like they don’t sleep enough, versus 20% of men.
Roughly 22% of people who participate in Cross Fit got enough sleep, versus just 10% of yoga practitioners.
mended seven-plus hours of sleep per night, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Doing exercise in the first place helps improve sleeping habits, the study found, with only 11% of people who don’t exercise saying they catch enough Z’s.
And while studies do show that getting eight hours of sleep each night isn’t necessarily all it’s cracked up to be, hitting the hay has been proven to improve not just people’s health but their financial well-being, too.
Restonic polled more than 1,000 people to produce the report.
Pittsburgh.
they don’t get as much shut-eye, researchers found. While exercise promotes more restful sleep, using electronics in bed does the opposite, according to Restonic. People who use social media frequently are three times more likely to have sleep disturbances, according to a study released last year by researchers at the University of
And women were nearly twice as likely (23%) as men (12%) to wake in the middle of the night because of children or pets. In fact, men need 7.8 hours per night and women need 7.6 hours, according to a study that tracked 3,760 people over seven years and published in the September 2014 issue of the journal Sleep.
Finland’s Social Insurance Institution with sleep disturbances and sickness absence of the study’s participants, who were examined by physicians. Lack of sleep is a “public health epidemic” in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Unintentionally falling asleep, nodding off while driving, and having difficulty performing daily tasks because of sleepiness all may contribute to these hazardous outcomes, the report says. Those experiencing a prolonged lack of sleep are also more likely to suffer from chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, depression, and obesity, and cancer, increased mortality, and reduced quality of life and productivity. (MarketWatch) (Courtesy: VoiceOfAsia)
They cross-referenced data on work absence due to illness from
Unlock Your Energy Through Yoga
(Continued From Page 19) Do you know, modern science is telling you that the whole existence is just energy manifesting itself in different ways?
do things in the world, your creativity, is just a certain way your energy functions. This energy, in one plant it functions to create rose
If this is so, then you’re also just a little bit of energy functioning in a particular way. As far as science is concerned, this same energy which you call as “myself” can be here as a rock, lie there as mud, stand up as a tree, bark as a dog, or sit here as you. Everything is the same energy, but functioning at different levels of capability. Similarly among human beings, though we’re all made of the same energy, we still don’t function at the same level of capability. What you call capability or talent, what you call your ability to
naturally. This is the experience of any number of people who have started doing these practices. It is the inner technology of creating situations the way you want them. With the same mud that we build such huge buildings, initially people were building little huts. They thought that’s all they could do with it. With the same earth, haven’t we built computers? What you call a computer is dug out of the earth.
flowers, in another plant it functions to create jasmine, but it’s all the same energy manifesting itself. If you gain a little bit of mastery over your own energies, you will see, things that you never imagined possible, you will do simply and
We thought we could only dig mud and make pots or bricks out of it. Now we dig the earth and make computers, cars, and even spacecrafts out of it. It is the same energy; we have just started using it for higher and higher possibilities. Similarly, our
inner energies are like that. There is a whole technology as to how to use this energy for higher possibilities. Every human being must explore and know this. Otherwise, life becomes very limited and accidental; you get to do only what you’re exposed to. Once you start activating your inner energies, your capabilities happen in a different sphere altogether. Yoga is a tool to find ultimate expression to life. Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev is a yogi, profound mystic of our times, and visionary humanitarian. His presence creates an extraordinary opportunity to break through limitations into one’s natural state of freedom, love and joy. Named one of “India’s 50 Most
Powerful People” by India Today magazine, Sadhguru has touched the lives of millions of people worldwide, contributing to his vision of raising human consciousness. Isha foundation is conducting a 4-day Inner Engineering Program in Austin, Texas on Jul 20th-Jul 23rd, 2017. Inner Engineering is a program gleaned from the yogic sciences that offers tools to rejuvenate and achieve health, peace, joy and success. This program includes guided meditations, interactive discussions, asanas and the transmission of the sacred Shambhavi Mahamudra, which is a powerful and purifying energy technique that incorporates the breath. To learn more, visit www.innerengineering.com or call 512-6559589 .
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Austin South Asian | June 2017
June 2017 Community Calendar We have compiled this event listing based on the information available on the web site (where ever possible) of the community/organization as of third Friday. Please check with the organizers to confirm its accuracy. We request all South Asian organizations to email us (info@austinsouthasian.com) their community calendar on or before 20th of every month, for the events happening next month. We will carry listing of all South Asian non-profit organizations in Austin. If the Name, Contact info is not correct or has changed email us (info@ austinsouthasian.com) the changes you want to see. E&OE. SCHEDULE: June 02 - June 04, Friday - Sunday, Dwajasthambha Pratishta - Shikara Pratishta -Rushi Gopura Pratishta and Kumbhabhishekam is at Austin Hindu Temple and Community Center, 9801 Decker Lake Rd, Austin, TX 78724. For more information, contact 512 927 0000. Sponsorship Details: http:// www.austinhindutemple.org/aht/ wp-content/uploads/2017/04/ KBM_2017_Sponsorshipsv2.pdf Registration: 1lDN
https://goo.gl/zn-
Online Payment Link: http://www. austinhindutemple.org/?page_ id=286 (Click on Kumbhabhishekam 2017 - Sponsor button) June 09, Friday, 06:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Deep Pragtaya, Spiritual Discourse is at 203 E. Pecan Street, Pflugerville, TX 78660. Guests are welcome. June 10, Saturday, AM Session at Mandir 8:00 to 10:00 AM - Mahapuja 11:00 to 1:00 PM - Maruti Yagna 1:00 to 2:00 PM - Lunch Spiritual Discourse is at Mandir, 804 Ramble Creek, Pflugerville, TX 78660 PM Session at Hall 3:00 to 4:00 PM - Kirtan Bhakti 4:00 to 6:30 PM - Katha Parayan 6:30 to 7:30 PM - New CD release, Yajman 7:30 to 8:30 PM - Dinner 8:30 to 10:30 PM - RasUtsav, Cake Cutting and Ice-cream Spiritual Discourse is at 203 E. Pecan Street, Pflugerville, TX 78660 June 10, Saturday, 07:00 PM,
ICMCA presents Sitar Virtuoso Ustad Nishat Khan accompanied by Maestro Gourisankar (Tabla). Tickets are available at ICMCA. The event is held at Bates Recital Hall, 2406 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin TX 78712. Parking Option is at Bates. The closest parking garageis San Jacinto Parking Garage. All tickets purchased on-line will be held at the Will-Call desk under the purchaser’s name for pick up.
This event is FREE to all ICMCA 2017 Members.
804 Ramble Creek, Pflugerville, TX 78660
June 11th, Sunday,
PM Session at Hall
AM Session at Mandir
2:00 to 5:00 PM - Kirtan bhakti, Katha 5:00 to 6:00 PM - Dinner Spiritual Discourse is at 203 E. Pecan Street, Pflugerville, TX 78660. Mahaprasad (Lunch and Dinner will be provided all three days).
9:00 to 10:00 AM - Abhishek 10:00 to 11:30 - Kirtan bhakti 11:30 to 12:30 - Annakut Darshan 12:30 PM - Lunch Spiritual Discourse is at Mandir,
June 25, Sunday, 10:00 AM, Ratha Yatra is at 9801 Decker Lake Rd., Austin Texas, 78724. This is a free event. For more information, contact Office Manager at 512927-0000 or email at info@austinhindutemple.org or visit http:// www.austinhindutemple.org/
Fight The Bite Day And Letter To The Editor Night - Austin Public Health
Our mild Central Texas winter could mean a more active mosquito season. That’s why Austin Public Health is encouraging all residents in Travis County to do their part to limit exposure to mosquitoes and the diseases they carry including Zika and West Nile viruses. Zika primarily spreads through infected mosquitoes. These mosquitoes bite both day and night. Zika can also be passed through sex from a person who has Zika to his or her sex partner. Zika virus infection during pregnancy can cause microcephaly, an abnormally small head, and other severe brain defects. Where you live, your travel history and the travel history of your sex partner can affect your chances of getting Zika.
vere illnesses or deaths from Zika virus. Thus far, Brownsville, Texas is only the second place in the continental US to have local transmission of Zika. Many people infected with Zika or West Nile virus won’t have symptoms or will have only mild symptoms. The most common symptoms are fever, headache and body aches. Joint pain and red eyes are also associated with Zika. It’s important to remember that mosquitoes can only develop in water and it takes just a teaspoon of water for mosquitoes to breed. Here are the best ways to prevent mosquito bites:
As of April 28, 2017, 24 cases of illness due to Zika virus were reported in Travis County.
• Remove standing water around your home. • Use EPA- registered insect repellent. • Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants. • Stay in places with air conditioning or window and door screens.
All the Zika virus infections or suspected cases reported were travel related.
For more information on mosquitoes please click on https://www. austintexas.gov/zika
Locally, there are no reported se-
From Present Address: A.V. Kumar c/o Mr. Chandramohan Raju Apt: 161. 12212 Brigadoon Ln Austin, Texas 78727 Ph: 7325463789 Indian Address: A.V. Kumar 9, Babu Reddy Avenue, Anakaputhur, Chennai - 600070 Tamil Nadu India Ph: 00919444148766
Mail: dr.anagaikumar@gmail.com To The Editor Austin South Asian
Sir, Namaste,
Now I am staying at above Austin address from March to August 2017 in my daughter and son in law home. I am reading last 3 issues of Austin South Asian. Very useful and interesting subjects also. Next month, Tamil nadu (India) government and other parties celebrate “Bharatha Rathna” Ex.Chief Minister Puratchi Thalaivar M.G.Ramachandran (MGR) 100th birthday celebration. MGR DOB: 17-01-1917 to 2017 100 years MGR Expired: 24-12-1987 At 1987 January 17 (before 10 month of MGR death) I got an opportunity at “Kalaivanar Arangam - Chennai” “Dina Idazh” Newspaper release function. At that time, I got a good opportunity to take a photo with MGR .This photo is a great honor in my life. I saw so many Indian news and south Indian news also in Austin South Asian. If it is possible, please publish this photo for 100th celebration of MGR. Thank you very much sir. A.v.Kumar 7325463789
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Austin South Asian | June 2017 THEME: THE 1960s
ACROSS 1. Diamond corners 6. CA’s Santa ___ winds 9. At what time? 13. Music to a performer’s ears 14. Yes move 15. Eurasian goat-like antelope 16. *”The ____ Burnett Show” 17. Number in a pair 18. #10 Down, pl. 19. *”Beach Party” garb 21. *Kind of 1960s “invasion” 23. Tokyo, pre-1868 24. *Wilder in 1968’s “The Producers” 25. “Gross!” 28. 9th letter of Greek alphabet 30. Changes 35. High part of day 37. Narcotics agent 39. Donor recipient 40. Musical finale 41. Imprison 43. Funeral cloth 44. MC Hammer’s “Too ____ to Quit” album 46. Command: “At ____!” 47. Popular acronym in education 48. Attractive to look at 50. Clarified butter 52. Greek H 53. Wise old man 55. Beaver’s construction 57. *Civil Rights Act of 1964 signee 61. *Six-Day War nation 64. *Maker of “Mouse Trap” board game 65. Elbow rest 67. Exemplary 69. Mosquito - ____ disease 70. “The Old Man and the ____” 71. Ivy Mike, e.g. 72. Son of Aphrodite 73. Expression of doubt 74. Affirmatives
DOWN 1. *Home to “Doctor Who” starting in 1963 2. United ____ Emirates 3. Rani’s dress 4. Call forth 5. Forward slashes 6. ____perspirant 7. *Betty Friedan’s org. 8. Acrobat maker 9. *Beatles song on “Rubber Soul” 10. Audiophile’s praise 11. Shining armor 12. *Crosby, Stills & ____ 15. Protection from a sword 20. Nary a soul 22. Ribonucleic acid 24. Waste basket contents 25. *”The Man from ____” 26. Soft and sticky 27. ____podge 29. Wild no more 31. Bests 32. Related on mother’s side 33. Find new tenant 34. *Point of origin of Alabama marches 36. Lack of guile 38. *Folsom State Prison visitor 42. Orchestra section 45. Disorderly fight 49. ____-tzu 51. Like a smell of soil 54. Grind teeth 56. Not yes, nor no 57. Be compatible 58. Wafting output 59. Life saver 60. Grannies 61. Allah’s cleric 62. “Iliad,” e.g. 63. Tart garnish 66. Dream time 68. *”The Munsters” network
SUDOKU
Sudoku
Please email your sudoku answers to info@austinsouthasian.com. Name and photo of the inviduvidual with first correct answer will be published in June 2017 issue.
To Advertise In ASA Call 512-828-6709
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Austin South Asian | June 2017
Austin South Asian Invites Contributions From Readers And Community May 2017 Sudoku Answer Mr. Yudhveer Bagga
Mr. Rajnish
Ms. Richa
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Austin South Asian | June 2017
Bombay Express Authenitic Indian Cafe 100% Vegetarian and Vegan Friendly Tuesday - Sunday 11:00 am - 9:00 pm 1300 N IH35 Building #12, Unit # 216 Austin, Texas - 78753
512-491-5055 (Take-Away is possible on all items on the menu)
CHILDREN ARTICLES Children Email Us Your Articles To See It In Print
info@austinsouthasian.com
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Austin South Asian | June 2017
RECIPE OF THE MONTH
By Ranganatha Bande Obbattu (HoLige)
For the outer surface (kanaka) Maida or all purpose flour - 3/4 cup Fine suji or chiroti rava - 3/4 cup Pinch of salt Pinch of sodium bicarbonate (soda) Pinch of turmeric Oil to mix the dough and for cooking Method:
Ingredients: For the stuffing (hoorana) Toor dal - 2 cups Jaggary - 2 cups Shredded coconut – 1 1/2 cup Cardamom powder - 6 crushed
Turn off the gas and allow it cool. Now grind the mixture in a wet grinder without adding water
Mix maida, rava, turmeric, salt and soda by adding water little by little, now add 2 spoon oil so that it won’t stick to your hand.
(PS: grind small quantity at a time). Make golf ball size balls and keep it aside. Boil six cups of water in a thick bottom vessel add toor dal, pinch of turmeric and 1/2 teaspoon oil. cook till dal is soft, make sure not mushy.
Make it soft playable dough.
Drain the water completely and add jaggary and shredded coconut to the dal, mix thoroughly.
cover it with a damp cloth and keep it aside. Let it sit for at least half an hour.
Keep stirring till the jaggary melts now add the cardamom, mix it again.
Put some oil on your palm,
take a marble size dough and pat it on your palm and wrap around puran ball. Heat pan on a medium flame, now flatten the covered ball like chapati on a parchment paper or banana leaf and cook both sides with little oil. Repeat the procedure. You can serve these with ghee and/or warm milk. Make obbattu saaru(rasam) with drained water from dal.
Tales Of Young Gandhi By Janhavi Prasada
Tales of Young Gandhi, Janhavi Prasada’s new graphic novel, shifts focus from the public persona of Mahatma Gandhi to his formative years as a student of world politics Tales of Young Gandhi by Janhavi Prasada (224 pages, Harper Collins) Review by Keith Gomes There are two aspects which are pivotal while approaching a work of literature: form and matter. The two were proposed by Aristotle for all physical reality. But, in literature they act as means of accessing the work so as to make it more comprehensive. Matter is what the text constitutes and coveys, while form is the shape or medium it must use to convey meaning. In the case of most of literature, it is the written word that becomes the form, but in the case of some works the medium could differ from the usual. In Janhavi Prasada’s Tales of Young Gandhi, a graphic novel, the form is more complex: composit of the written word and artwork.
The challenges of this form are multifarious, and can be easily neglected by most; a task that Prasada has taken on, quite bravely. Prasa-
da’s work wishes to understand the Mahatma as an ordinary human being.
Tales of Yo u n g Gandhi takes the Mahatma (Maha= g r e a t , A t m a = soul/spirit) and humanises him to the extent of making him accessible, comprehensive and demystified. G a n d h i ’s struggles of becoming a Mahatma are openly narrated, with utmost attempts made to
maintain integrity and honesty.
There is an evident effort made to stay as close as possible to how Gandhi saw his life and not how a third person, who tries to act as narrator, saw it. The introduction of the work, which is in the form of a series of panels, where the author tries to ask her father about Gandhi, enables the reader to gain a direction and grants a purpose to the whole act of reading and visually indulging in this graphic novel. What is also worthy of acknowledgement is the fact that the author sets the introduction in terms of the contemporary state of affairs, where reality has become too “abstract and hard to grasp”, especially the problems that plague us. This sets up another important facet of the work: the story is made palpable. Prasada’s graphic novel uses simple visuals: on white background, black marks are made to draw the characters and, over this, shadows of black and deep brown are added to provide depth. The visuals work
successfully at representing the story of Gandhi. The visuals in a graphic novel act as an appendage to imagination by granting them more definition and it is this goal that is successfully met. In Gandhi’s story there are many facets which glean through brilliantly via the artwork. Matters like the locations, which range from London, South Africa to villages in India, are simple in their pictorial representation and the clothing which is of significance is represented precisely to help the reader understand Gandhi’s varying outlooks. Tales of Young Gandhi, is in accord with Prasada’s aims to make Gandhi comprehensive, so as to make him palpable and thus inspirational. The book makes for a riveting read of an endearing Gandhi who resembles us all, but outdoes most due to his dedication to work on himself and society, always with the aim of improvement. (-The Sunday Guardian Live)
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Austin South Asian | June 2017
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July 20-23 Austin@ishausa.org
InnerEngineering.com
TCEA 3100 Alvin DeVane Blvd, Building B, Austin TX, 784741 Ph : (512) 655-9589 No physical agility or previous experience with meditation is required. Ages 15 and up.
Miss USA Runner Up Chhavi Verg Speaks Hindi And Spanish LOS ANGELES, CA, (AFP), May 15, 2017 The Miss USA pageant on Sunday touted American diversity, and chose an African-American chemist with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to wear the crown. Kara McCullough from the US capital will go on to represent the United States at the Miss Universe contest. The pageant included a field of five new immigrants who spoke on air about the importance of diversity — as if to refute US President Donald Trump’s less than welcoming stand toward some immigrants and refugees.Indeed, the runner up was Chhavi Verg, Miss New Jersey, who was born in India and speaks Hindi and Spanish. Verg, 20, was asked in her final question, “What do you consider feminism to be and to you consider yourself to be a feminist?” Feminism is striving for equality and I do consider myself a feminist. I think it’s a misconception when people believe that feminism is women being better than men. But it’s really not. It’s a fight for equality. And we need to realize that if we want a stable society, a better future for every single individual, we need to be equal. And that’s why I advocate for education for women. Women are still held back in places in the world. They still don’t have that right to their independence, that right to their equality — all because of education. And, once we do take that step, I believe that an equal world will be a better world.
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Austin South Asian | June 2017
Tiger Shroff Gets On Board For Indian ‘Rambo’ Remake
Bollywood actor Tiger Shroff has been finalised for Indian remake of Hollywood actioner ‘Rambo’,
lone. The remake will be directed by
dharth Anand Pictures, reports an online portal. The buzz around the remake is huge in India. Actors like Hrithik Roshan and Sidharth Malhotra were in consideration for the role, but nothing was materialised. Tiger said: “Being a martial artist and a huge action movie buff since childhood, this all seems very surreal, and I’m very grateful for this opportunity. By no means do I believe I can replace the legendary Sylvester Stallone; however, I do feel that somehow this is something I’ve been preparing for since childhood.”
which starred action icon Sylvester Stallone.
Siddharth Anand and co-produced by M!
The actor is excited to get on board, but says he can never replace Stal-
Capital Ventures, Original Entertainment, Impact Films and Sid-
Aishwarya Rai Looks like the gorgeous diva took fashion advice from her daughter Aaradhya while choosing her dresses for her annual appearance at Cannes..
The former beauty queen looked stunning in the off-shoulder gown, fitted from the waist and flowing out into a ballroom dress with a plunging neckline. She made her way to the red carpet as the ambassador of global cosmetic brand L’Oreal Paris on Day 3 of the gala. The 43-year-old actress not only posed for the shutterbugs at the red carpet, but also at one moment folded her hands to gesture ‘Namastey’.
For Aishwarya Rai Bachchan looked straight out of fairy tale, Cinderella. With her hair open, her subtle make-up paired with dark-hued lips, Aishwarya looked every inch a royal princess at the the 70th Annual Cannes Film festival in a floor-sweeping powder blue ballroom gown by Dubai-based Filipino fashion designer Michael Cinco.
Aishwarya’s red carpet look was much different from the first look from the fiesta, where she sported a bottle green layered dress embellished ensemble with colourful floral motifs by Yanina Couture. She was later seen posing with Hollywood star Eva Longoria for the camera. While Aishwarya looked ravishing in an off white dress with colourful floral prints, Longoria sported a casual look in a grey track suit.
Principal photography for the film is slated to start in February next year, with a release targeted for late 2018.
“Rambo” franchise first came to life in 1982 with “First Blood”, which minted over $125 million worldwide. It was followed by a number of successful remakes, including the most recent “Rambo” in 2008, which earned $113 million globally, the report notes. The Indian remake will be given a ‘desi’ twist. It will follow life of last surviving member of an elite covert unit of the Indian Armed Forces who returns home to discover a war waging in his own land. And how he unleashes mayhem by becoming an unstoppable machine after tough training. Anand, who also directed “Bang Bang!” -- an Indian remake of Tom Cruise’s “Knight and Day”, said:
“’Rambo’ is one of the most iconic action blockbuster films from my generation. I grew up looking up to heroes such as Stallone, and in a time where the Indian industry is lacking action characters of Rambo’s caliber, this is a perfect time to introduce Tiger in this role.” The director feels Tiger “has a power and vulnerability that will make him the next iconic action hero of our time”. Tiger, son of actor Jackie Shroff and a martial arts expert, entered Bollywood in 2014 with ‘Heropanti’, and followed up his act with films like ‘Baaghi’ and ‘A Flying Jatt’. He is also working on projects like ‘Munna Michael’ and ‘Baaghi 2’. (Courtesy: TimesOfIndia)
YUGAPURUSHD HINDI PLAY IN AUSTIN ON JULY 17th The well acclaimed play “YugPurush, Mahatma Ka Mahatma”, in Hindi, is coming to Austin on 17th July Monday, 7:30 PM, at St. Andrew’s Dell Fine Arts Center, 5901 SouthWest Pkwy, Austin, TX 78735. The play, having won several awards including ‘Dadasaheb Phalke Excellence Awards 2017 –Best Play’, has already completed more than 530+ shows in 4 languages, watched by over 370,000+ viewers, across India and UK, and is now coming to North America. YugPurush is a hearttouching portrayal of the special bond between Shrimad Rajchandraji and Mahatma Gandhiji that catapulted Him from ‘Mohandas’ to ‘Mahatma’. What began as a honest friendship, progressed to Gandhiji proclaiming Shrimadji as his spiritual mentor. “I must say that no one else has ever made on me the impression that (Shrimadji) Raichandbhai did. His words went straight home to me... In my moments of spiritual crisis, He was my refuge.” These are the words penned by Gandhiji, the most influential figure India has produced in generations, in His autobiography - on His guiding light, Shrimad Ra-
jchandraji. YugPurush highlights the values of expanding one’s capacity to love and give selflessly, respecting diversity, supporting truth, fostering trust, and building lasting communities. It revives an inspiring spiritual legacy and the cultural ethos of our nation that lies mostly forgotten, today. The legacies of Shrimadji and Gandhiji continue to offer new paradigms to global peace and human progress. A testament to the revolutionary power and impact of nonviolence, Gandhiji’s approach directly influenced Martin Luther King, Jr. and Nelson Mandela, who embraced Gandhiji’s philosophy or Satya (truth) and Ahimsa (nonviolence). Commemorating Shrimadji’s 150th Anniversary, this theatrical presentation (http://usa. yugpurush.org) is a tribute to two great souls and their impact on the society.The play is to support a new 200 bed Multi specialty Charity Hospital in the tribal region of South Gujarat. To buy tickets online, please visit http://usa.yugpurush.org/ or email at info.austin@yugpurush.org
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Austin South Asian | June 2017