Austin South Asian. April 2019

Monthly Community Paper | www.austinsouthasian.com | 512-828-6709 | Vol. 12 No. 04

4th Indie Meme Film Festival Austin, TX (March 20, 2019) --Schedule announcement for the 4th edition of Indie Meme Film Festival April 14, 26-28, 2019 at the AFS Cinemas.

Over a period of 4 days, Indie Meme will showcase carefully curated, critically acclaimed, socially relevant bold & inspiring features, documentaries and shorts from South Asia.

IMFF 2019

will also include youth films and will have local, international, and US based filmmakers in attendance.

Complete with red carpet, opening & closing night galas, audience discussions and networking events, the 4th Indie Meme Film Festival promises to be a spectacular community event.

(Continued On Page 15)

India Election 2019

India is heading for Lok Sabha election 2019 - the world’s largest democratic election exercise. In-

Lok Sabha election 2019, around 900 million people are eligible to vote this time. The number is an increase of about 90 million compared to the last election. It is estimated that about 130 million voters this time will be first-time voters. The actual number of people who do vote, however, is far less.

Even though 2014 saw the highest turnout ever in independent India’s history at 66.4 percent, it meant a huge 270 million people did not vote. Two-thirds of Indians are under 35. With 430 million (Continued on page 23)

inside April 2019

An Exquisite Collection.04 Oliver Rajamani...........04 Arun’s Scribblings.........06 Sankara Eye Foundation.6 Chandrayaan 2.............16 CBSE Curriculum..........16 Ways To Boost.............08 Home Is Your Castle.....08

May 2019 Summer Good Friday Easter Ugadi Rama Navami Special

Good Friday is the crucifixion of Jesus and his death at Calvary.

It is observed during Holy Week as part of the Paschal Triduum on the Friday preceding Easter Sunday, and may coincide with the Jewish observance of Passover.

(Continued On Page 20)

Easter also called Pascha or Resurrection Sunday is a festival and holiday celebrating the resurrection of Jesus from the dead, described

in the New Testament as having occurred on the third day of his burial after his crucifixion by the Romans at Calvary c. 30 AD. It is the culmination of the Passion of Jesus, preceded by Lent (or Great Lent), a forty-day period of fasting, prayer, and penance.

(Continued On Page 23)

dian General Election 2019 schedule is out and the national election will be held in seven rounds from April 11 and the results will be announced on May 23. In this year’s

Ugadi is the New Year’s Day for the people of Karnataka, Andhra

Pradesh and Telangana states in India. It is festively observed in these regions on the first day of the Hindu lunisolar calendar month of Chaitra.

(Continued On Page 20)

Rama Navami is a spring Hindu festival that celebrates the birthday of god Rama. He is particularly important to the Vaishnavism tradition of Hinduism, as the seventh

avatar of Vishnu. The festival is a part of the spring Navratri, and falls on the ninth day of the bright half (Shukla Paksha) in the Hindu calendar month of Chaitra. This typically occurs in the Gregorian months of March or April every year. Rama Navami is an optional government holiday in India.

(Continued On Page 23)

512-828-6709

Family Should Know.....09 Protect Jewelry.............09 HC4A Praised At Texas State Capitol................10 5 Ways Children Benefit From Creative..............11 Bollywood Meets..........11 Indie Meme Annual Film Festival..........12,13,14,15 SWNB Scholarship........15 The Picture Book World16 Malik’s Page...18,19,20,21 Community alendar......21 Children’s Page...22,23,25 Get More Bang.............24 Add Some Excitement..24 Entertainment.........26,27

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Austin South Asian | April 2019

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ALL NEW 2019

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Austin South Asian | April 2019

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Austin South Asian | April 2019

An Exquisite Collection

By Seema Govil Nothing is more beautiful than a nine-yard saree draped to perfection. The colors, the

women across Austin, Texas on Saturday, April 13 from 11am – 6pm at River Place Country Club, 4207 River Place, Blvd, Austin, TX to choose from over 100 pre-stitched

utes to drape just right.

styling.

Dosanjh, will be presenting an exquisite collection of Indian ethnic wear, showcasing a

You will be able to order or shop sarees in many styles and designs, including fusion dresses and lehengas, all curated from India.

While you’re there, shop some of the most transcendent jewelry from the acclaimed Amrapali collection.

All the way from Rajastan, India, this will be the first pop up in Austin, Texas.

Shop necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and more.

This event is brought to you by Cosmo City Media and Jingo Media.

For more information and to RSVP visit http://bit.ly/sareesoire.

fabric, the décor – is just stunning. Join

pieces that take just two pins and two min-

mélange of traditional designs and modern

By Irene Henry

Rajamani feels strongly that people should experience cultures outside their own.

lier, during his school days in India, when he played onstage with his uncle’s band and encountered the folk music of villages. He was also exposed to Western classical music as a percussionist in his school’s band.

Oliver Rajamani: A Magical Perspective

Join us April 6th & 7th for a performance unlike anything you’ve ever seen before: Oliver Rajamani’s Flamenco India with Jerónimo Maya! For tickets and more information, click here.

“Life is magical and mysterious. I try to stay in the pure joy of life. There’s an innocence in creating and being in joy … music is part of that, music is joyful. It’s beautiful what people create.”

– Oliver Rajamani Oliver Rajamani’s unique upbringing contributed to the distinct stylistic and visual palette of his music. Had he not attended an American International school in India, Rajamani believes he would not be who he is today: an internationally renowned artist and the creator of “Flamenco India.”

“Going to that school changed my life. I had this upbringing that was so different from the normal Indian child and way of thinking. I couldn’t connect with my family, or people from my own country, or anyone in American Western culture either. No one could really understand my life; there were times when I just felt alone.”

“Because I don’t belong in any one group, I’m able to connect better with everyone.”

He moved to New York in 1989, studying in an unconventional college that viewed education as an exploratory time for students to immerse themselves fully in an area of interest, and not to be sequestered into ‘learning from the books,’ so to speak.

“I traveled and got to experience culture and people for their essence, rather than just sitting in a classroom and learning.” Ethnomusicology was not yet a broad field of study, so Oliver Rajamani pieced together his own version with a dual degree in sociology and music.

His study of music actually began much ear-

After coming to the US, his appetite for music grew stronger. Rajamani was aimless during his college years; he enjoyed music and meeting new people, but didn’t know what he wanted to do beyond that. An anthropology professor gave him a book about the Romani people, thinking the open field of study relating to his home country might interest him.

“I didn’t go looking out for this Gypsy thing, it just came into my life.” He first encountered the Romani people during his college years. Rajamani says the Roma are not as secluded as mainstream culture believes: “There are a lot of Roma in the US, but you won’t know because they won’t tell you; they hide it for fear of persecution.” The Roma migrated from India in waves beginning in the 11th century. They adopted elements from each culture in which they lived

as a survival method, but kept very secretive out of fear of discrimination. The Romani people have been misunderstood for centuries, their persistent seclusion allowing for each group they encounter to create myths and prejudices about their beliefs and behaviors. Rajamani began playing with a wide range of Roma musicians, along with NonRoma (Gadje) musicians, in New York.

Through those musical connections, he met someone who would have a major influence on his future: Dr. Ian Hancock, the UN Ambassador for the Romani Congress and the world’s head scholar in Romani studies.

Hancock connected him with the Romani Congress, where he ended up working for four years.

Dr. Hancock was a linguist and professor at the University of Texas – Austin, the location of the world’s largest historical archives of Roma, and he encouraged Rajamani to move there. He thought Rajamani would benefit from its diverse music scene. The coalescence of Rajamani’s deep connection with Romani cultures, his unique musical flavor, and his move to Austin all provided fertile ground for the birth of Flamenco India. Through his time spent with Romani people, and his acquaintance with flamenco guitarist Arturo Martinez, Rajamani learned about the Indian roots of flamenco.

(Continued On Page 05)

5

South Asians’ International Volunteer Association

Join in celebrating ‘Bollywood Fallen Stars Musical Tribute Celebrating/ Fundraising

an afternoon that you won’t want to miss in reliving Sridevi and Shashi Kapoor.

We will have live performers singing and in between prestigious dance schools showcasing their work. With only limited seats, get your tickets fast! Tickets will not be sold at the door.

Tickets can be found at: https:// bit.ly/2Hkm1aL This event is SAIVA’s major fundraiser that promotes well-being, belonging and fulfillment for older adults through community engagement, education, partnership building, and advocacy & civic involvement.

SAIVA’s 10th Anniversary’ at the Asian American Resource Center on Sunday March 31, 2019 from 3-5:30pm. It will be

Last year SAIVA contributed about $141,800 of volunteer work to the community and hoping to expand that this year with your help. Looking forward to seeing you there! If you have any questions, please email us at saivacommunications@ gmail.com.

Oliver Rajamani: A Magical Perspective

(Continued From Page 04) He was collaborating with flamenco artists and emphasizing its Indian components, such as Indian folk songs, to demonstrate its rich history to his audiences. This innovative approach evolved into Flamenco India. “The majority of my musical life has been from my family, my own talent, and learning things here and there as I went along, working with different artists and talking with different people.” Flamenco evolved from the cultural and spiritual identity of the Roma in Spain. Historically called ‘Gypsies’ by various groups, the Roma were known as ‘flamencos‘ by the Spaniards.

“Most people don’t know the roots of flamenco. The Roma came to Spain at the end of the 15th century during the Inquisition, when the Spanish were trying to get rid of foreigners: Jews, Gypsies, Moors. These people ran and hid in the caves of Granada, which is where flamenco evolved from. Flamenco was a fusion of the time: it has unique similarities to Indian singing and musical styles, Indian dance movements – the hands and footsteps – and the music is also heavily influenced by Arabic Andalusian music. All I’m doing with Flamenco India is highlighting the Indian-ness of flamenco.” In Flamenco India, Rajamani has brought together Indian musicians, a small string orchestra, Jerónimo Maya – a Romani guitarist – and Indian and flamenco dancers. The flamenco music incorporates Indian and Middle Eastern melodies and harmonies, and the orchestra performs in a style displaying his roots in Western classical music. He acknowledges the influence of place in Flamenco India as well.

“There’s definitely an Austin element to my music: even though it has roots in Spain, India, the Middle East, it’s really an Austin project. Flamenco India was born in Austin, but it has deep roots in all these other cultures.” Rajamani believes his synthesis of flamenco and Romani cultures merging through shared Indian roots shines “a new light and a new perspective on a beautiful, historic, educational, and passionate show full of fire. It’s a unique experience; there’s not really anyone else in the world doing this. It’s a magical and very colorful show.”

Austin South Asian | April 2019

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Austin South Asian | April 2019

Sankara Eye Foundation Presents Carnatic Vocal Recital By Dev Rajagopalan

By Purnima Rajagopalan

Sankara Eye Foundation has given

Over 60 million people in India are affected by treatable eye conditions, being visual impairment or total blindness.

Dev and his fellow artists the opportunity to help those who have been affected and lack the necessary resources.

This concert by Dev Rajagopalan is dedicated to address this problem.

Sankara Eye Foundation is a nonprofit organization with an aim to reach out to the rural poor in India

and provide quality eye care with

no cost to the needy by building specialty eye-care hospitals across India.

Chicago area and on the mridang a m ( a n Indian percuss i o n instrument)

by Karun, a senior from U T Austin majoring in Neurosci-

ence.

This will be a great opportunity for you to provide encouragement to the young artists and contribute to a great cause at the same time.

Mark your calendars and see you at the Recital on Sunday, May 5, 2019 at 3PM at the Asian American Resource Center, 8401 Cameron Road, Austin, TX 78754.

For additional information go to www.giftofvision.org/events or email us at rameshraj05@gmail. com

Dev’s concert is a fundraiser for

the Sankara Eye Foundation. Dev is a sophomore from Cedar Ridge High School, Round Rock, TX. Dev is a disciple of globally renowned artist Chitravina N Ravikiran.

He has been learning Carnatic music for the last 8 years and has now become a performing artist.

He will be accompanied on the violin by Rishabh, a high school freshman from the

Scribblings By Arun TERRORISM AND CANCER Sans wiping terrorism those dream to live safely, Sans curing cancer those hope to live happily, Are living in fool’s paradise undoubtedly.

Terrorism is akin to the disease cancer, Our wrong notions and negligence does them foster.

Cancer cells invade and destroy healthy tissues.

Terror groups target nations for selfish issues.

Till cured, the cancer patients in silent suffers.

Till requite, gore by terrorists, Nations endures.

Patients need expert doctors to treat with much care.

Nations to fight terrorism, need leaders who dare.

Chemo kills the malign cells with few benign too.

Warfare kill the terrorists with few civvies too.

Both comes to notice only when they go berserk.

Check at the earliest, before they cause havoc. (arunsunderraj@gmail.com)

7

Austin South Asian | April 2019

‘Chandrayaan 2 Will Carry NASA’s Laser Instruments To Moon’

During the Lunar and Planetary Science Conference held at Texas, US last week, NASA confirmed that Chandrayaan 2 and Israeli lander Beresheet, due to touch down on April 11, will each carry NASA-owned laser retroreflector arrays.

India’s lunar mission Chandrayaan 2, scheduled to launch next month, will carry NASA’s laser instruments that allow scientists to make precise measurements of the distance to the Moon, according to the US space agency officials.

During the Lunar and Planetary

Science Conference held at Texas, US last week, NASA confirmed that Chandrayaan 2 and Israeli lander Beresheet, due to touch

down on April 11, will each carry NASA-owned laser retroreflector

arrays.

“We’re trying to populate the entire surface with as many laser reflector arrays as we can possibly get there,” Lori Glaze, acting director of the Planetary Science Division of NASA’s Science Mission Directorate, was reported as saying by ‘Space. com’

Retroreflectors are sophisticated mirrors, that reflect laser light signals sent from the Earth.

The signals can help pinpoint precisely where the lander is, which scientists can use to precisely calculate the Moon’s distance from Earth.

While five such instruments already exist on the lunar surface, they have some flaws, according to Simone Dell’Agnello, a physicist at the National Institute for Nuclear Physics National Laboratory at Italy.

“The existing reflectors are big ones,” said Dell’Agnello adding that individual reflectors instead of arrays, would waste fewer laser pulses and allow more-precise measurements of the moon’s surface.

Those analyses could become so detailed that scientists could see the daily rise and fall of any lander surface the device is resting on as that surface expands and contracts with the Moon’s dramatic temperature changes.

(Courtesy: www.thehindubusinessline.com)

Artificial Intelligence, Yoga To Be Part Of CBSE Curriculum For 2019-20 Session

While AI is to be introduced as optional sixth subject for Class IX, ECCE and Yoga are to be introduced as elective subjects at senior secondary level. The CBSE is set to introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI), Early Childhood Care Education (ECCE), and Yoga as skill sub-

jects in the school curriculum for the coming academic session. The decision to introduce the subjects was notified by the board through a circular earlier this month.

While AI is to be introduced as an optional sixth subject for Class IX,

ECCE and Yoga are to be introduced as elective subjects at senior secondary level.

Stating the idea behind introducing AI as a subject, the circular reads, “AI in the past few years has gained geo-strategic importance and a large number of countries are striving to stay ahead with their policy initiatives to get their country ready.”

Citing the “huge

requirement” of yoga professionals and early childhood educators, the circular stated, “Yoga will teach a way of living that aims towards a healthy mind in a healthy body whereas Early Childhood Education will prepare the students to teach children of nursery and kindergarten classes happy educa-

tion or other systems of child-cen-

tric education.”

(Courtesy: IndianExpress.com)

Austin South Asian

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8

Austin South Asian | April 2019

Your Home Is Your Castle: How To Protect It Through The Years

For many people, owning a home is the American dream, and the single biggest financial investment they will ever make. With the stakes so high, in addition to picking out the perfect property, it’s critical to have the right insurance.

While homeowners may start out with the right amount when they first purchase their home, over time, their policy can become outdated. Why? One big reason is inflation.

owners reach out to their insurance agent when: • You remodel: 2019 is expected to be a popular year for remodeling, according to the Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity.

Why? If something were to happen (think: fire, water damage, etc.), you’ll want your insurance policy to provide enough funds for everything to be repaired or replaced.

• You make changes to outdoor space:

In addition to making sure your insurance keeps up with inflation, experts also recommend home-

Unfortunately, at least 148 children drowned in swimming pools last summer and many more were injured, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

You’ll want to make sure you’re properly covered in the event of an accident.

“Labor and building material costs go up over time, which means that if your home were destroyed by a fire or natural disaster, for example, and you had to rebuild it in today’s dollars, it would very likely cost much more,” said Bob Buckel, vice president and product manager, Erie Insurance.

“That’s why we recommend that all homeowners get ‘guaranteed replacement cost’ coverage.”

There are also liability concerns associated with certain equipment, such as a swimming pool or trampoline.

• You install a security system:

Whether it’s putting on an addition or finishing the basement, be sure the extra square footage and finishes are listed on your policy.

The same is true with any remodeling to your outdoor space. The addition of an in-ground pool or fence can add value to your home.

have the right coverage in place.

For example, if you’re selling LuLaRoe clothing and there’s a fire, your merchandise might not be covered since typical policies don’t always cover home-based businesses.

You’ll most likely need an incidental business endorsement. Coverage from Erie Insurance could cost about $30 to $70 per year.

• You acquire valuables:

You may qualify for a discount on your insurance if you’ve recently installed a security system.

Homeowners insurance covers your belongings, but generally only up to a certain dollar amount per item.

One study by the Electronic Security Association (ESA) looked at the 10 largest insurance companies and found many offer worthwhile premium discounts.

So, if you acquire an expensive item, such as an engagement ring, a fur or a valuable artwork, you should talk to your insurance agent about adding special coverage.

• You start a home-based business:

You may also need to provide a receipt or appraisal.

Whether you have a side hustle or draw a full-time income from a home-based business, you may not

(StatePoint)

Ways To Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal When it comes to your home, you only get one chance to make a great first impression -- and that takes place before anyone ever steps inside, making curb appeal upgrades an effective way to beautify your home while boosting its value.

clude two-tone combinations, are growing in popularity, and an expanding array of panel designs can help you work in harmony with

providing safety features not found in older models, while reducing heat and cold transfer for lower energy bills.

Here are some great ways to enhance curb appeal that will give you a great return on investment, according to Remodeling Magazine’s 2019 Cost Vs. Value Report.

Luckily there are a growing number of ways to personalize a garage door. New color options, which in-

Siding Replacement

When applied to a home exterior, this project has an impressively high return on investment at 95 percent, according to the 2019 Cost vs. Value Report.

Of all the home updates that will boost your curb appeal, new siding has the third highest return on investment, according to the report.

Maximize this upgrade by opting for high-quality materials that look like authentic stone, even upon careful inspection.

For example, the choices available from ProVia are molded and colored to produce a realistic, dramatic effect, mimicking stones from unique geographic regions in a range of cuts.

Garage Door Replacement Whether you want your garage door to take center stage or provide a demure complement to your home’s overall exterior, the right selection will make a great visual impression.

needs and style.

your home’s architectural style.

Manufactured Stone Veneer

But know that this is not just any cosmetic upgrade. A new garage door has the potential to improve your family’s safety and comfort,

A manufactured stone veneer project can enhance the aesthetic appeal of any space, indoors or out, and can be customized to suit your

Their online resources, which can be found at provia.com, include design ideas and tools for selecting harmonious color groupings, helping you make the best choices for your home.

When making this upgrade, consider materials wisely. Thanks to its overall low cost, ease of installation, minimal maintenance required and long-term durability, vinyl is the most popular home siding material.

Whether you opt for insulated, traditional or decorative siding, this can be a great way to give your home a high-impact facelift that’s well worth the cost.

To add beauty and value to your home, start with curb appeal, selecting projects that offer a great return on investment.

(StatePoint)

9

Austin South Asian | April 2019

5 Ways To Protect Jewelry And Valuables

From engagement rings to family heirlooms, your jewelry and other valuables are timeless and important.

Luckily, there are steps you can take to help keep these items safe.

value that may exceed the limits of your homeowners policy.

Travelers also offers the option to insure the ring at the same time you

Burglars often know exactly where to look for jewelry and other valuables.

Storing your most prized pieces in

Insurance experts from Travelers have put together the following tips to help you protect your most treasured possessions:

Valuable items policies, such as a personal articles floater (PAF), insure individual pieces that have a

than that, it’s worth considering an additional policy, such as a PAF or the Valuable Items Plus program from Travelers, both of which provide coverage for items of higher value.

4. Monitor Extreme Temperature and Light Exposure:

You can ask your insurance agent or carrier about other policy options, including what their limits are and how to add them to your overall insurance program.

Light and heat can affect the color of gemstones and metals. Extreme temperatures can also damage clasps, making it easier for stones to fall out of beloved pieces.

1. Insure Your Engagement Ring Immediately: Engagement rings hold great sentimental and monetary value, but many individuals don’t think to cover them under an insurance policy.

Many people are surprised to hear that warm water and dish soap are among the best methods for keeping jewelry clean. Harsher methods, such as ultrasonic cleaners, can damage certain stones.

insure your wedding. You can learn more by visiting protectmywedding.com.

uncommon spaces, such as a bookshelf or your bathroom, can add an extra layer of protection.

2. Store Your Jewelry in Unlikely Places:

3. Use Safe Cleaning Methods:

5. Know Your Homeowners Insurance Policy:

It may be hard to imagine the theft or loss of your most valuable possessions, but these things happen, and that’s why it’s important to take steps to protect your jewelry.

While homeowners insurance covers your home and its contents, typical policies only cover up to $1,500 of jewelry.

With customizable insurance options and care, you can help make sure your jewelry survives each day.

If your jewelry has a higher value

(StatePoint)

What Every Family Should Know About Childhood Development As a parent, you are probably tracking every move your young child makes, paying special attention to developmental milestones such as sitting, standing and talking.

“While the pace of development does vary from child to child, parents should pay attention when things seem amiss.

Don’t wait until your next scheduled appointment to speak with your pediatrician about your concerns. Make an appointment as soon as possible.

Available in English and Spanish, the interactive tool is designed to improve the early identification and care of motor developmental delay.

fessional helps families get the support and information they need to manage their child’s health care and help them reach their full potential.

• Use free resources:

Through on-screen guidance, parents can identify topics to discuss with their child’s pediatrician.

Pediatricians can play a critical role in working with parents to identify intellectual delays.

• Request genetic testing when a

One of the more common inherited causes of intellectual disability, Fragile X syndrome (FXS), can only be confirmed with the FMR1 DNA Test for Fragile X.

Online resources can help parents prepare for their pediatrician visit.

One such tool, “Physical Develop-

Sometimes the cause of a delay is a medical problem, and in many cases, early intervention is important,” says Dr. Garey H. Noritz, a pediatrician who cares for children with disabilities, and who authored an American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) clinical report on motor delays.

“All children with developmental delays, intellectual disability or autism spectrum disorder should be considered for a genetic evaluation,” says Dr. Robert A. Saul, a pediatrician and medical geneticist who is a member of the AAP.

“You are the best expert on your child, so if you have any concerns, you should address them with your pediatrician.”

For parents of young children who have concerns about their child’s intellectual or physical development, Dr. Noritz offers the following advice: • Make an appointment:

mental Delays: What to Look For,” an AAP online checklist available at healthychildren.org/motordelay, is a good resource for parents and caregivers of children under 5.

developmental problem is confirmed: When it comes to intellectual delays and disabilities, having a correct diagnosis by a medical pro-

“While therapeutic interventions are vitally important, a diagnostic genetic evaluation is equally so.

Although there is no cure for FXS, with a diagnosis, we can offer important supportive treatments and take educational and therapeutic approaches.

Having a reason for a child’s in-

tellectual disabilities and behavior problems can be reassuring for families, and a diagnosis enables families to receive counseling for family planning, participate in clinical research if desired, and connect with support groups.”

More tips, tools, reliable resources and information about child development and other pediatric issues for families can be found at healthychildren.org.

Information for physicians and other health care providers regarding FXS is available at www.aap. org/fxs.

Remember, there are many ways you can be proactive about your child’s early motor and intellectual development.

If you have any concerns, seek out tools, resources and the advice of your pediatrician as early as possible.

(StatePoint)

10

Austin South Asian | April 2019

HC4A Praised At Texas State Capitol Scholarship Presentation

By Aashi Morales, HC4A Volunteer Pictures by: Shetal Patel, LiveNow Shetal Patel Photography, and Pragya Sen

Celia Israel, State Representative Gina Hinojosa, Austin City Co.uncil Member Natasha Harper-Madison, and IACT founding

Rep. Israel and expanded on her thought, noting that “We are in it together—this is important. That is the point of this charity.

Hindu Charities for America (HC4A) was praised by numerous elected officials, local school district leaders, community college trustees, and education non-profit executive directors at its annual scholarship presentation on Friday, March 22, 2019, held this year at the Texas Capitol.

The event was hosted by Representative John H. Bucy, III, who recognized HC4A for its “grassroots” efforts helping people “oneon-one.”

Rep. Bucy said he was “happy to be a part of” HC4A’s efforts, pledged that the “help does not stop here,” and promised that he and other state officials were committed to help HC4A in its mission in the future.

Also honoring HC4A at the event were State Representative Vikki Goodwin, State Representative

member, Ashwin Ghatalia.

Rep. Israel, a long-time HC4A supporter, pointed out that the event “is a good reminder that we are all in this together.”

Harish Kotecha, president and founder of HC4A, agreed with

We are in it together. We are successful here….and we should be participating in the broader issues found here in the U.S.” Vijay Mohan, chair of the HC4A Foundation Board spoke of the importance of giving back, that each has a certain responsibility to help others get to the next level and see how they contribute, reminding everyone of the adage, “Give me

Bombay Express Authenitic Indian Cafe 100% Vegetarian and Vegan Friendly Tuesday - Sunday 11:00 am - 9:00 pm 13000 N IH35 Building #12, Unit # 216 Austin, Texas - 78753

512-491-5055 (Take-Away is possible on all items on the menu)

a fish and I eat for a day, teach me to fish and I eat for a lifetime.”

HC4A raised over $105,000 in scholarships in 2018, and at the presentation, vice-president of HC4A, Dinesh Vakharia handed out symbolic checks to Austin Community College Foundation ($35,000), Capitol Idea ($30,000), Manor Education Foundation ($10,000), RRISD Partners in Education ($6000), Apoyando Un Angel ($5000), Share the Will ($4000), Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired ($3000), Hutto ISD ($2000), and Pelaton U ($2000).

Representatives from three ISDs were unable to attend: Florence ISD ($2000), Austin ISD ($3000), and Pflugerville ISD ($3000).

Present to receive the checks were ACC Board member, Nora Comstock, Capitol Idea Executive Director Steve Jackobs, Manor ISD

superintendent Dr. Royce Avery, RRPE’s Board President Lisa Cauble and Program Manager Heather Goss, Apoyando Un Angel Founder Ricky Lopez, Share the Will founder Will Williams, TSBVI’s Patricia Robinson, Hutto ISD college advisor Nathan Schwausch, and Pelaton U director Navid Ladha.

HC4A will be continuing its efforts to help local students with the first of its two signature fundraisers, Bollywood Meets Borscht Belt, being held on April 7, 2019, from 4pm-7pm at the Dell Jewish Community Center at Shalom Austin.

All the proceeds from this fundraiser go to providing school supplies for local homeless students.

To support HC4A’st efforts or get tickets or help sponsor Bollywood Meets Borscht Belt, visit HC4A at HC4A.org.

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11

Austin South Asian | April 2019

5 Ways Children Benefit From Creative Playtime

When kids pretend to be their favorite superhero, it may look like sheer fun at first glance, but experts say that imaginative play also benefits children in a number of substantial ways.

“From building confidence and self-perception to offering children an opportunity to practice communication and language skills, pretend play is vital to child development,” says Keri Wilmot, a pediatric occupational therapist and an expert contributor to TheGeniusofPlay.org.

How can creative play help your child thrive? Here are five important benefits, according to The Genius of Play, a national movement providing families with the information, inspiration and hands-on ideas they need to make play an important part of their child’s day.

• Enhanced literacy: Some of the same mental connections that take place when a child is first learning to read are employed

in the world of pretend. Whether it’s a banana that becomes a phone or a towel being used as a cape, grasping symbolism in the world

of play can pave the way for children to better recognize that each letter of the alphabet represents a sound. Encourage kids to use the everyday objects and toys around them to build a world of creativity and fun.

• Leadership skills: From a very young age, playtime experiences can have a major impact on the development of children’s leadership skills. In the case of superhero play, the act of taking on a powerful persona offers kids an oppor-

tunity to assert themselves and gain self-confidence, while creatively constructing their own story lines.

Through play, parents, teachers and mentors can help foster these attributes in children.

• Movement: Movement helps children hone their coordination, balance and motor skills. Associating exercise with fun can set a precedent for a lifetime habit. What’s more, physical activity encourages better eating and sleeping habits. Be sure your kids have a safe place to play indoors that lets them burn off all their energy. When the weather is nice, take the fun to the backyard or a nearby park, where the possibilities for pretend expand.

• Perseverance: Known as the “Batman Effect,” a 2016 study published in “Child Development” found that kids stay better focused on a task when they are pretending to be their favorite

superheroes or characters. Through play, you can encourage your children to channel the bravery and perseverance of the superheroes they admire most, giving them the emotional tools needed to thrive in a challenging world.

• Emotional development: Role play offers children an opportunity to explore their emotions, both good and bad, while building compassion. Children can channel frustration, anger, fear and triumph into the worlds, characters and storylines they create, learning to manage these emotions in healthy ways.

For more child development tips and play resources, visit TheGeniusofPlay.org. There may be times when you’d prefer your child finally change out of his or her superhero costume. But by letting kids explore their creativity, you can help them reap the benefits of this type of play.

(StatePoint)

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Austin South Asian | April 2019

4TH INDIE MEME FILM FESTIVAL MEMBERS

NON-MEMBERS

$70

$85

$40

$55

$10-12

$12-15

ALL ACCESS FESTIVAL BADGE Includes ALL screenings starting April 14th, priority seating, opening night party with all the filmmakers in attendance, closing night party & award announcement

FESTIVAL WRISTBANDS Includes Access to ALL films

The 4th Indie Meme Film Festival www.indiememe.org/imff-2019

APRIL 14, 26, 27 & 28

SINGLE FILM TICKETS

**Please note: schedule subject to change** All screenings are at: AFS CINEMA, 6259 Middle Fiskville Rd and All Films have ENGLISH SUBTITLES

SUNDAY APRIL 14

FRIDAY APRIL 26

S O F T O PE N I N G I M F F 2 0 1 9

OPENING NIGHT: Film Screening & Party

A Family Affair & Meme-er Afternoon

5:30 PM - 6:30 PM RED CARPET, AFS Cinema lobby

3:00 PM - 4:00 PM YOUTH SHORTS PROGRAM

6:30 PM - 8:30 PM OPENING NIGHT FILM -THE LAST COLOR

5 s h o r t f i l m s (US | Austin | English) Filmmakers in attendance

(India | Fiction | Drama | 1hr 30min | Hindi)

4:00 PM - 6:00 PM GUBBARE (India | Children’s Short film | Hindi)

FAMILY FILM-CHUSKIT

(India/Fiction /90 min/ Ladaki) To chase her dream of going to school in her remote Himalayan village, a feisty paraplegic girl locks horns with her unyielding, tradition-bound grandfather. Skype QA with filmmaker Priya Ramasubban

6:00 PM - 7:00 PM MEMBER MIXER @ AFS Lobby

A 9 year old flower seller & tightrope walker (Chhoti), befriends a 70 year old widow (Noor) living a colorless life of abstinence. Chhoti promises hope to Noor as this poignant story of love, friendship, commitment and victory of the human spirit unfolds on the banks of River Ganges. QA with filmmaker Vikas Khanna in attendance

9:00 PM - 11:00 PM OPENING NIGHT PARTY (open to Badge holders only) @URBAN, Westin -Domain

SATURDAY APRIL 27

10:00 AM- 12:00 PM INDIAN CIRCUS

12:45 - 2:45 pm YASMINA

(India | Short film | 22min | Hindi)

(US/Short film | 6min | English & Farsi)

(Pakistan/ Documentary/ 76min / Urdu) Pakistani folk artists talk about their struggle to keep a fading art form alive while reminding the world what they are about to lose. The Film showcases unique performances of rarely seen musical instruments from perhaps their last remaining maestros. Skype QA with filmmaker Jawad Sharif

(India/ Fiction/Drama/ 91 min/ Kashmiri & Urdu) Amid the backdrop of the Kashmiri conflict, a young woman must come to grips with the disappearance of her doting husband and embark on harrowing journey of self-discovery.

QA with filmmaker Danish Renzu in attendance

INDUS BLUES

HALF WIDOW

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Austin South Asian | April 2019

4

TH

INDIE MEME FILM FESTIVAL SATURDAY APRIL 27

3:45 PM - 5:45 PM LAYOVER

6:30 PM - 8:50 PM

I DREAM

(US/ Short Film/9min/English)

(US/ Music Video /1min 50sec/English)

(India | UK | Short Film | 15 min | Hindi)

(Sri Lanka | Fiction | Drama | 1hr56min | Sinhala & Tamil)

CENTERPIECE FILM - HER. HIM. THE OTHER

THE LAST LETTER YOURS TRULY

(India//Romantic Drama/1hr 39 min/English & Hindi)

Amidst the daily din of the local trains in Calcutta, a lonely working woman in her late fifties finds herself falling in love with the voice of the railway announcer. Skype QA with filmmaker Sanjoy Nag

Three Sri Lankan filmmakers renowned for their internationally acclaimed films based on the Sri Lankan civil war, join in to make one film to express their views on post-war reality. QA with filmmaker Prasanna Vithanage in attendance

SUNDAY APRIL 28 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM SHORT FILM - TBD FAMILY FILM - NAMDEV BHAU IN SEARCH OF SILENCE (India | Feature | 1hr 24 min | Marathi & Hindi)

A 65 year old chauffeur, flustered by all the noise around him in the city of Mumbai decides to leave everything in search of the 'Silent Valley'.

On this journey he chances upon an exasperating 12 year old boy, who happens to be on his own solo expedition. QA with filmmaker Daria Gai in attendance

4:45 PM - 6:30 PM THE BUBBLE MAN (US | Short Doc | 9min | English)

FADE

(Iran | Short film | 3min | Silent)

JIRGA

(Afghanistan /Fiction/Drama// 78 min / English & Pashto) Jirga is a traditional Pashtun tribal authority of community elders. An Australian ex-soldier returns to Afghanistan to find the family of a civilian he accidentally killed during the war.

Seeking forgiveness, he puts his life in the hands of the Jirga. Skype QA with filmmaker Benjamin Gilmour

1:30 PM - 3:50 PM THE SOUND MAN - MANGESH DESAI (India | Documentary | 1hr53min | Hindi)

Featured amongst top 10 sound mixing engineers of the world by New York Times, Mangesh Desai was a genius and regarded so by the Indian film community. A true tribute to a true hero. QA with filmmaker Subhash Sahoo in attendance

7:15 PM - 9:30 PM CLOSING NIGHT FILM - KAAMYAAB (India | Fiction | Comedy-Drama | 1hr 53min | Hindi)

Sudheer, a washed up side actor from the heydays of Bollywood, realizes that he ‘retired’ on the verge of a rare milestone - he had featured in 499 Hindi films. QA with filmmaker Hardik Mehta in attendance

9:30 PM - 11:30 PM CLOSING NIGHT PARTY - Location-tbd -open to Badge holders only IMFF2019 AUDIENCE CHOICE -AWARD ANNOUNCEMENT

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Austin South Asian | April 2019

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Austin South Asian | April 2019

4th Indie Meme Film Festival

(Continued From Page 01) Complete with red carpet, opening & closing night galas, audience discussions and networking events, the 4th Indie Meme Film Festival promises to be a spectacular community event.

IMFF 2019 kicks off on Sunday, April 14th with IMFF YOUTH - a popular addition to the festival which provides a platform to young filmmakers to showcase their creative work. Over the last few months Indie Meme has organised workshops to help local youth learn and refine their filmmaking skills under expert professional guidance.

The youth programming is followed by the multi award winning family film, CHUSKIT. Set in the mountainous region of Ladakh, the cast of CHUSKITt is mainly local actors who are of Indo-Aryan and Tibetan descent the film draws mainly on local talent.

Directed by Priya Ramasubban CHUSKIT is an inspiring & uplifting story of a feisty paraplegic girl.

The tender child-grandfather relationship makes it a MUST SEE film for all ages. SO COME WITH THE WHOLE FAMILY to kick off IMFF2019!

A detailed official selection of films & schedule of events is also included in this issue of Austin South Asian - so please refer to it.

But an extra special shout out to the OPENING NIGHT film THE LAST COLOR, the CENTERPIECE of the festival, HER. HIM. THE OTHER and the CLOSING NIGHT film, KAAMYAAB. THE LAST COLOR, is a directorial debut by Michelin star chef, renowned restaurateur, celebrity TV host & author Chef Vikas Khanna.

The film, featuring NEENA GUPTA and set in Banaras, India is on restoring the life of dignity for widows expected to be forgotten in a colorless existence. Vikas Khanna will be in attendance at the screening.

Three Sri Lankan filmmakers renowned for their internationally acclaimed films based on the Sri Lankan civil war, join in to make one film to express their views on post-war reality - HER. HIM.

THE OTHER. Prasanna Vithanage, Vimukthi Jayasundara, Asoka Handagama make the film in three segments which connect over the message that wounds need to be healed through tolerance, equality and open minds. The filmmakers are master storytellers who all have a deep understanding of the human

psychology and a dark sense of humor. Prasanna Vithanage will be in attendance at the screening.

KAAMYAAB in Hindi means ‘to be successful’! Filmmaker Hardik Mehta felt the advent of ‘new age cinema’ and the fact that the ‘character actor’ on the film posters was no more to be seen. Everything about Hindi cinema became about a HERO! Which is when he knew KAAMYAAB had to be made With veteran actor SANJAY MISHRA in the lead the film makes the audience feel as if they are watching an actual character actor’s journey but also ‘a hero’ :-).Hardik Mehta in attendance The festival boasts of TWO PARTIES in addition to the 20 films.

The OPENING NIGHT PARTY would be at WESTIN, DOMAIN at the URBAN grill - with access to BADGE HOLDERS ONLY. Additional festival programming including features YOURS TRULY, JONAKI, NAMDEV BHAU, HALF WIDOW, JIRGA and the documentaries - INDUS BLUES and THE SOUND MAN - MANGESH DESAI.

Each film is unique in what it brings, the space it inhabits and is sure to draws you into it’s world.

This festival is very special as it honor’s a technical wizard posthumously! Subhash Sahoo the National Award winning sounder designer and director of THE SOUND MAN - MANGESH DESAI will

be in attendance at the screening as will be the Late Mangesh Desai’s daughter. This screening might just be Indie Meme’s most special screening to date!

The Diverse flavors of South Asian cinema right in the heart of Austin and an opportunity to meet international filmmakers at social events

- all this at an affordable price!

Make sure you get your Badges / Wristbands / Tickets to IMFF2019 TODAY! For the latest developments, visit the Indie Meme Film Festival official site https://www.indiememe. org/imff-2019 and follow the festival on https://www.facebook.com/ indiememe/ https://twitter.com/indiememe IMFF 2019 is supported in part by the Cultural Arts Division of the City of Austin, Economic Development Department. Producing Sponsors DAMAN, WESTIN DOMAIN, KLRU Directing Sponsors CORNERSTONE ARCHITECTS, COGNITIVE SCALE, HEB, CHARLES MAUND TOYOTA. About Indie Meme Indie Meme Org is a 501c(3) nonprofit with a mission is to promote socially relevant independent cinema from South Asia, in an effort to influence social and cultural awareness and consciousness, and encourage and facilitate dialogue around the same.

Southwestern National Bank Scholarship 2019

Southwestern National Bank Scholarship 2019 - $1,000 Scholarship Awards

About The Southwestern National Bank Scholarship Program Southwestern National Bank Scholarship Program is funded

by Southwestern National Bank (Member FDIC) to recognize and assist outstanding high school graduates reduce the financial burden for college. Southwestern National Bank Scholars are selected on the basis of their financial need, academic achievement, and community involvement. Each year a total of $5,000.00 will be awarded to five selected scholars. Each scholar will be awarded $1,000.00.

Eligibility 1. Demonstrates financial need for college tuition, book & supplies and expenses 2. U.S. high school graduating seniors 3. Has a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (un-weighted) 4. Will enroll in an accredited U.S.

college full-time for the entire academic year 2019/2020

Documents Required (To be considered, all of the following documents must be submitted) 1. A completed Southwestern National Bank Scholarship Application Form 2. An official high school transcript 3. Copies of the most recent document(s) demonstrating the financial need (Family’s 1040 Federal Income Tax Return Form, qualification for School Free/Reduced Lunch Program, etc.)

4. Two letters of recommendation from a teacher, counselor, and/or other advisors 5. A two-page typed essay stating why you should be awarded a scholarship. Please include: • Financial need for this scholarship for educational purposes • Personal and academic achievements. Give specific examples.

• Academic plans and career goals.

Give specific examples.

• Past and current involvement, as well as future plans, towards mak-

ing a difference in your community Application Process & Award Announcement 1.

Please send your application package to Southwestern National Bank, Attention Scholarship Program-Ling Chuang, 6901 Corporate Drive, Houston, Texas 77036.

2.

Applications and all supporting documents must be received by April 30, 2019 for application to be considered.

3. An interview may be part of the application process for all semifinalists.

4.

Scholarships for the 2019 Scholarship program will be announced by mail in May 2019.

Please Contact Us For scholarship application and information will be at Southwestern National Bank all the branch, or please contact the Scholarship Coordinator by e-mail at ling.chuang@swnbk.com , 713-272-5045

16

Austin South Asian | April 2019

The Picture Book World

By Shachi Kaushik

Books open a new world for all of us. They can help you show a new world to your children.

The second book is Our Legendary Ladies Presents Anandi Gopal Joshi- by Megan Callea (Author), Jennifer Howard (Illustrator)

T h i s b o o k highlights the life of Anandi Gopal Joshi, known as India’s first female doctor.

Picture books for children is an exercise which opens them to a new imagination and makes them feel and experience different emotions all at once.

Here are a few books that you can enjoy reading with your little ones Mina vs. The Monsoon- by Rukhsanna Guidroz and Illustrator Debasmita Dasgupta

Mina, a little girl, who loves to play soccer, is stuck indoors and she can’t help feeling restless and bored when the monsoon arrives.

Through the illustration’s one can sense the village in the northern states of India.

This book is available at the Round Rock Public Library.

You can also check out her biopic made in Marahti called Anandi Gopal.

Never too late to still catch up on a book for Holi.

They gather flowers to make into colorful powders, and on the big day of Holi, they gather together with their friends and family to play with the colors.

My third book is ‘Festival of Colors’ - by Kabir Sehgal and Su-

Children will like the lively illustrations as they capture the spirit of the festival.

rishtha Sehgal, Illustrations by Vashti Harrison

This book is available at the Round Rock Public Library.

Learn all about Holi, the Indian Festival of Colors. Siblings Mintoo and Chintoo get ready to celebrate Holi.

Join me on my picture book journey by liking my Facebook page ‘Stories by Shachi’

She got married at the age of nine.

Children who love playing soccer will surely relate to this story.

Mina tries all her tricks to stop the rain so that she can go out to play. Read this book to find out how Mina ends the rain and get her mother to play soccer.

the first Indian woman to receive a western medical degree. I did not know about her until I read this book.

Most of the times we struggle reading biographies of people. Picture books make learning about a person exciting and easy. Though written for children, we as adults can learn from them too.

In March, we celebrated the Women’s History Month. I got to read and learn more about a legendary Indian lady ‘Anandi Gopal Joshi,’

She had her first child at the age of 14, but her child died 10 days later, due to lack of medical care.

The incident inspired her interest in medicine, and she traveled to New York from Kolkata by ship, to study medicine.

Although she died at the age of 21, she inspired many and even has a crater on Venus named after her.

The Adventures Of Randy & Square Kid

Abhiveer Annoji

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Austin South Asian | April 2019

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Austin South Asian | April 2019

On Route To Reaching The Stars - Friends Meet Annually At SXSW

By Sumaiya Malik

who has not missed a single year

who attend SXSW and also makes

What started as mere acquaintances who happened to meet while taking part in panel discussions or attending sessions at SXSW have become closer associations and loyal friendships over the years.

Such is the nature of the connections formed in Austin.

That year, Amanullah also won the SXSW Community Service Award. He has spoken at a total of 7 SXSWs since then and keeps coming back “because there is a sense of community and respect in what is otherwise a competitive technology space.”

Muslims at SXSW, the small WhatsApp group I am referring to, is a prime example.

Gilani and Amanullah came to know litigator turned actor, Fawzia Mirza (@theFawz) in 2016 when she came to showcase her film, Signature Moves, a film she co-wrote and starred in.

Its members keep coming back as they move up in their careers, finding a positive energy that gives their professional and personal development an impetus.

Over the years, 5 active admins run the group: Lila Igram (@lilaIgram), founder of crowd-funding website, Connecther, along with Chris Blauvelt (@arblauvelt), founder of LaunchGood, Shahed Amanullah (@shahed), founder of Affinis Labs, Zabiha and AltMuslim, Aziz Gilani (@texasvc) and Eman Aly (@EmanHAly).

Aziz Gilani, an infotech professional from Houston, is a regular attendee at SXSW. “My first SXSW was in 1998 when I was a freshman at the University of Texas [at Austin],” said Gilani

Since then she has come every year with new things she has worked on and reconnects with them.

since 2009. He was also a part of a panel in 2012.

Every year, he plans ahead, attends panel discussions, learns about innovation, connects with others in the field like him, reconnects with old friends from all over the US

Embassy of India - Washington DC Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale called on Ambassador John Bolton, National Security Advisor to the U.S. President on 13 March 2019.

Both underlined the importance of Pakistan taking tangible and ir-

on a panel to talk about it,” reminisced Amanullah.

reversible action against terrorist groups based in territories under its control and denial of safe haven for these groups to launch cross - border attacks.

Other issues including Afghanistan and bilateral matters were also discussed.

Foreign Secretary also met Chairman and Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and leaders of the House Foreign Affairs and Armed Services Committees.

new contacts.

SXSW is his annual jam, and Gilani is not alone in being passionate about SXSW. The forty or so in the group are in Austin every March, during the week long conference and festival which offers three main tracks although many new ones keep getting added every year. Interactive, Film and Music remain the top three.

They attend talks by keynote speakers, listen to panel discussions and try to catch those in the group nearby.

All this happens in the heart of downtown Austin with the Convention Center at its vertex.

Gilani always reconnects with Shahed Amanullah who first came to SXSW in 2007.

“The Austin-American Statesman ran an article about my work (mainly about my website Altmuslim) and Hugh Forrest (who ran and continues to run SXSW Interactive) reached out to me to get me

Fawzia believes in the power of comedy to tackle divisive issues. Her web series of Kam Kardashian and Muslim Trump took the internet by storm.

This year she came as a screenwriting mentor and celebrated her birthday with friends she meets at South By. One of her friends from the group, Amanda Qureshi (@ImTheQ), a digital media strategist, writer, public speaker and activist gifted Fawzia, a birthday crown, which Fawzia wore throughout the day at the festival. Qureshi is also a regular.

In 2017, she had a panel of her own called “American Muslim Media: Taking Back the Narrative,” with NY Times Op-Ed Wajahat Ali. Incidentally, Wajahat Ali was here in Austin again with his panel discussion, “Can we fight fake news without killing the truth?”

Each one in the group is a bundle of energy and trying out new ideas. Acclaimed writer, director, producer, Nia Malika Dixon (@niamalikadixon) who founded #BlackMuslimGirlFly is a part of the group and is generous with

sharing the knowledge in her field.

With numerous awards and recognition for her work and screenplays, she is part of an ever-growing list of African-American Muslims who are making their voices known in the creative community.

She launched her media production company Audaz Entertainment Inc. in 2006.

Young member Rim-SarahAlouane (@RimSarah), a Ph.D candidate at University Toulouse-Capitole in France, has come three years in a row. She calls SXSW ‘priceless’.

“Coming here reboots me, allows me to discover new movies, shows, & bands, and meet new people that I would have never met.

SXSW is my yearly much-needed intense getaway!” Rim-Sarah’s excitement is only a reflection of the sentiments of everyone else.

The group seems to be getting bigger and covers a diverse age group and background. Zeena Alkurdi (@zeenakurdi), Nida Khan (@ nidakhan) of Yaqeen Institute and Sana Saeed (AJ+) came to be a part of a panel, Combating Islamophobia with Marketing and Design.

Sunia Arif (PepsiCo) was an attendee. All were invited to join the SXSW Muslims Whatsapp group.

“We all feel like we are working together… by collaborating our efforts we can move the ball forward on all of our projects,” sums up Gilani about what is the common thread and adds, “We want to help each other because we believe that everyone is working for the same goals.”

SXSW is known to draw famous people, but it is also a haven for those who are on their way to reaching for the stars.

These are the people we care to mention this year. The members are easy to find through their Twitter handles and are here in Austin every year.

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Austin South Asian | April 2019

Kia Kaha – Vigil At St. James Church In Solidarity With New Zealand

By Sumaiya Malik Photo credit: Sabiha Rahman On March 16, Muslim Space, CAIR Foundation, St. James Episcopal Church, iACT Interfaith

Action of Central Texas and the Nueces Mosque joined hands to organize a vigil at St. James Church on Webberville Road in response to the 2 mosque shootings in New Zealand on Saturday, March 16.

There was communal service and Muslims offered Maghrib prayers at the church.

Mayor Steve Adler, City Manager Spencer Cronk, and former Council Member Ora Houston joined those attending the vigil.

Civic and religious leaders present also offered remarks of peace and solidarity.

The Austin American Statesman reported that Nearly 400 people of all faiths and religions attended the vigil to show solidarity with the Muslim community and honor the lives of those killed and injured in the mass shootings at two New Zealand mosques. The vigil was open to all.

Many people stood in the hallway

or at the back.

The church rang bells to acknowledge those who lost their lives and also displayed their picture on screen.

Muna Hussaini, the board president of Muslim Space, clarified that each ring represented a victim and also families that are now torn apart.

Omar Kadir who attended the vigil wrote on the FB event page, “This was solidarity at its finest.”

Members of Muslim community tried to spread the word and the community poured in.

Attendees were requested to not bring in bags or purses.

MEN CAN COOK! Email your recipe with your photos and see yourself in print

Info@Austin SouthAsian.com

512-828-6709

Indie Meme Film Festival 2019 – An Opportunity To Understand In A Time Of Divide

By Sumaiya Malik As we try to assess what happened in New Zealand and provide support to each other, Austinites have an opportunity through the Indie Meme Film Festival (April 14, 26 - 28 at AFS Cinema) to immerse themselves in conversations about humanness and how people all over the world are just people like us trying to carry on their lives.

films with opening night party and red carpet, the festival is an immersion into the South Asian perspective right here in Austin.

dier returns to Afghanistan to find the family of a civilian he accidentally killed during the war to seek redemption.

Interestingly enough, one of the

Commercial cinema leaves the kill-

begins were most films end.

It begins where death has already happened and regrets have already set in.

A movie about reconciliation and redemption is sure to stir emotions especially in this current time of racial divide.

The audience will feel a similar stirring of emotions with Him.Her.The Other.

All this will happen through the powerful medium of independent film and conversation with the filmmakers.

This is Indie Meme’s fourth annual film festival with films from India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, Australia and the US. If you have any ties to South Asia, whether it is yourself, a family member or a friend, this might be a place for you just so you could have some moments of nostalgia or to join in the conversation with your friend.

official selections in the festival, Jirga, has Australian ties.

Four days of feature and short

In the film, an Australian ex-sol-

Jirga is set in Afghanistan and Benjamin Gilmour, the director of the film will be a part of the q/a after Jirga is shown to the audience.

ings for the climax and then ends with the good guys receiving accolades. But what if both sides are good sides?

These are questions, this film asks us. And death is such a final blow that eventually, both sides are left with regrets.

This film actually

ones.

This film is set in Sri Lanka, a land ridden with civil war and its after effects and a long term pessimism that grips people as they search for loved

In this film, three Sri Lankan filmmakers renowned for their internationally acclaimed films based on the Sri Lankan civil war, join in to make one film to express their views on post-war reality.

A conflict of a different kind surfaces in Indus Blues, a Pakistani documentary film which shows that political turmoil economic, challenges and social identity crisis in a society have made it difficult for musicians and instrument makers to survive.

This film beautifully captures the dying music set in the most breathtaking Karakoram mountain landscape.

One would hope that the conversation that follows the films helps the audience understand that humans are all the same with similar needs no matter where they are from and after effects of conflict are always devastating.

And if the conversations move people enough to negotiate peace and understanding even in a time of the most serious crisis, one would think of the festival as a success.

For more information about Indie Meme Film Festival, please visit: www.indiememe.org

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Austin South Asian | April 2019

Time For Bluebonnets And Wild Flower Day - Thank You Lady Bird Johnson

By Sumaiya Malik My association with bluebonnets began when my children were toddlers.

Every spring, we would stop our car by patches of blue flowers on roadside, in fields, and when driving to Dallas or Houston on Texas highways, plop our “treasures” in the middle of the bluest of the blue and take pictures.

notice families taking pictures of little kids in the bluebonnets that bloom for about a month.

United States (1963 to 1969), is given the credit for this beautification of Texas roadsides.

I smile and think of my kids who I openly adore and love to see the

According to Kathleen A. Bergeron in her article, The Environmental

I think of how beautiful Austin becomes at this time of the year and

Good Friday (Continued From Page 01) It is also known as Holy Friday, Great Friday, and Black Friday.

Members of many Christian denominations, including the Oriental Orthodox, Eastern Orthodox, Catholic, Anglican, Lutheran, Methodist, and Reformed traditions, observe Good Friday with fasting and church services.

The date of Good Friday varies from one year to the next on both the Gregorian and Julian calendars.

Eastern and Western Christianity disagree over the computation of the date of Easter and therefore of Good Friday. Good Friday is a widely instituted legal holiday around the world, including in most Western countries and 12 U.S. states. Some countries, such as Germany, have laws prohibiting certain acts, such as dancing and horse racing, that are seen as profaning the solemn nature of the day.

It also encouraged States to acquire land or easements adjacent to highway rights-of-way where necessary to preserve and enhance the beauty of our countryside.

As a child growing up in eastern Texas, Lady Bird had relished playing in fields of bluebonnets, wild poppies, and primroses.

My husband who has been in Austin longer than I have would proudly tell me the story of the bluebonnets, how it was the state flower and how Lady Bird Johnson was behind the ‘wild flowers’ on roadsides.

It’s that time of the year again.

Although my kids are now young adults, I still look at the bluebonnets as I drive on 360 and that turning on Braker Lane where Mopac crosses it.

Roads were asked to make landscaping a part of all projects on the Federal-aid interstate, primary and urban highways.

That love played a role in how to beautify highways.

After the Act was signed, Lady Bird Johnson worked tirelessly to raise funds for the project especially in her home state of Texas.

tradition still going strong.

Lady Bird Johnson, wife of President Lyndon B. Johnson who served as the 36th president of the

First Lady, it was through Lady Bird Johnson’s efforts that on October 22, 1965 the President signed the Highway Beautification Act under which the Bureau of Public

Ugadi

(Continued From Page 01) This typically falls in March or April of the Gregorian calendar.

The day is observed by drawing colorful patterns on floor called kolamulus, mango leaf decorations on doors called toranalu (Kannada: Torana), buying and giving gifts such as new clothes, giving charity to the poor, special bath followed by oil treatment, preparing and sharing a special food called pachadi, and visiting Hindu temples.

to Hindu temples and community centers on this day.

The same day is observed as a New Year by Hindus in many other parts of India. For example, it is called Gudi Padwa in Maharashtra, but sometimes observed a Gregorian day earlier because the lunar day starts and ends in Hindu calendar according to the position of the moon. In Karnataka, the festival is celebrated as Yugadi.

The pachadi is a notable festive food that combines all flavors – sweet, sour, salty, bitter. In the Telugu and Kannada Hindu traditions, it is a symbolic reminder that one must expect all flavors of experiences in the coming new year and make the most of them.

The name Yugadi or Ugadi is derived from the Sanskrit words yuga (age) and ādi (beginning) “the beginning of a new age”. Yugadi or Ugadi falls on “Chaitra Shudhdha Paadyami” or the first day of the bright half of the Indian month of Chaitra. This generally falls in late March or early April of the Gregorian calendar.

Ugadi have been important and historic festival of the Hindus, with medieval texts and inscriptions recording major charitable donations

The people of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana use the term Ugadi and Karnataka use the term Yugadi for this festival.

Even after leaving the White House her efforts continued. The Johnsons sponsored cash awards to be given to the Texas Highway Department’s maintenance crews.

And on her 70th birthday, in 1982, Lady Bird gave 60 acres of land to establish the National Wildflower Research Center (now known as the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center) in Austin, TX. Today, the center provides advice on planting, growing, and maintaining wildflowers to agencies and organizations throughout the world.

In 1971, bluebonnets became the state flowers of Texas and April 24 is Texas State Wildflower Day. This April, when you take pictures in the wild bluebonnets growing on road sides or see families by the flowers, take a moment to think of Lady Bird Johnson’s efforts in beautifying Austin, a city which becomes more beautiful when the blue patches spring up all around us this month.

Perhaps, take a tour of the Lady Bird Johnson Wild Flower Center on April 24 to commemorate the day.

Here are some facts about bluebonnets:

Bluebonnet is a name given to any number of blue-flowered species of the genus Lupinus (also known as Buffalo clover, wolf flower, and by the Mexicans - el conejo) predominantly found in southwestern United States and is collectively the state flower of Texas.

The shape of the petals on the flower resembles the bonnet worn by pioneer women to shield them from the sun. (Wikepedia) Texas bluebonnets are annual plants, meaning they go from seed to flower to seed in one year.

They germinate in the fall and grow throughout the winter, and usually bloom around the end of March to the mid-May. (www.theflowerexpert.com) • As the Texas bluebonnet flower ages, one of the top petals turns purple-red.

• Blooming period of the Bluebonnet flowers is between March-May. • At full bloom, the Texas bluebonnet plants are 30-50 cm tall, 50-70 cm in diameter, and have a mounded form.

• The foliage of Texas bluebonnet is yellow-green.

• Seeds of Texas Bluebonnets are light brown occasionally speckled with black.

• Bluebonnets grow in degraded soils in full sun. You will often see bluebonnets on heavily grazed land, and land on roadside.

You might have noticed that, TxDOT lets the flowers bloom their whole cycle before they mow in April.

• Bluebonnets germinate in late October For more information about bluebonnets please visit: www.wildflower.org www.theflowerexpert. com and Kathleen A. Bergeron’s article, The Environmental First Lady.

21

Austin South Asian | April 2019

April 2019 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: Great Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce is proud to host the Austin preliminary round of the USPAACC Pitch Competition for Asians/Asian Americans and other minorities. Top 5 will receive $500 and a one day pass to USPAACC’s What’s Your Pitch Competition in Houston to compete with entrepreneurs from around the country in an elimination round followed by a final round. $100,000 in cash prizes and services will be award-

ed. Applicants MUST commit to participating in advance rounds in Houston June 4 & 5, 2019.

Important Dates March 31 - Application deadline April 25 - Preliminary round in Austin June 4 - Semifinal round at Rice University June 5 - Final round at CelebrAsian Conference Details for the competition can be obtained at http://www.austinasianchamber.org/uspaacc-pitchcompetition

April 06, Saturday, 09:00 AM,

April 13, Saturday, 11:00 AM,

April 14, Sunday, 02:00 PM, April 26, Friday, 05:45 PM,

Annamacharya Day Celebration is at Sri Venkateswara Temple of Austin, 2509 W New Hope Dr, Cedar Park, TX 78613.

18th Annual South Asian New Year Festival is at Zilker Hillside Theater, 2206 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746.

4th Annual Indie Meme Film Festival 2019 is at AFS, 6259 Middle Fiskville Rd, Austin, TX 78752.

April 07, Sunday, 04:00 PM - 07:00 PM,

April 14, Sunday, 11:00 AM,

Bollywood meets Borscht Belt is at JCC, 7300 Hart Lane, AUSTIN, TEXAS 78731. For more information, contact (512) 994-4638.

Ram Navmi is at Radha Madhav Dham, 400 Barsana Rd, Austin, TX 78737.

April 19, Friday, 06:00 PM, Good Friday 2019 is at Frank C. Erwin, Jr., Special Events Center, 1701 Red River Street, Austin, TX 78701.

Nanjiani Back At SXSW 2019 With Stuber

By Sumaiya Malik Photo credits: www.jayjayasuriya. info/ In 2017, I saw Kumail Nanjiani in person for the first time. We had just finished watching The Big Sick at the Paramount in Austin, TX, at SXSW and he came on stage with his wife Emily V. Gordon to talk about the whole movie experience and his career. The conversation that happened then is now a blur, but what struck with me most was the wild drama and excitement in the audience.

“Go, man!” and “Koomail, Koomail, Koomail!” Nanjiani had a following. Nanjiani stood as an unassuming guy, soft spoken, understated, and “who, me?” kind of a person with the right pauses, the flick of the chin and a ruffled brow hiding a naughtyt smile. That day I realized Nanjiani had arrived on the silver screen. The Big Sick went on to become the big hit that brought Nanjiani an Oscar nomination in 2018 for best original screenplay.

Fast forward, 2019.

Nanjiani came back to Austin this March at SXSW 2019 for the screening of his ‘work-in-progress’ action/ buddy comedy film Stuber. Nanjiani stars opposite actor and professional wrestler Dave Bautista (Guardians of the Galaxy fame).

Michael Dowse directs the film.

Nanjiani plays a mild mannered Uber driver names Stu who picks up Bautista, a cop who has just

had Lasik surgery and can not drive and who is hot on the trail of a brutal killer. The driver finds himself ‘thrust into a harrowing ordeal’ where he has to keep his wits and his life and can not afford to get any more one-star rating on his driver record.

This is the first time Nanjiani is starring in a film that is not his own creation. He seems to have no problems working with a new director. Interesting to note is the chemistry between the two lead

characters, one being larger than life all action, anger and passion combination and the other straight and simple, toned down, no bumps

in the road kind of a guy. They are thrown together and their reluctant friendship grows as the drama unfolds.

Stuber drew a full house at Paramount. “This is the first time I have seen so many people,” said entrepreneur/artist Jay Jayasuriya who was in the audience and couldn’t stop laughing during the film. “The street was shut down. The traffic was detouring. Lots of people were trying to get a glimpse,” added Jay and then said something

that resonates with everyone, “I loved the story of a regular normal person being able to change the world.” (jayjayasuriya.info) Nanjiani is already a household name with HBO’s Silicon Valley, which is starting its 5th season this March, and biographical comedy, The Big Sick.

Such fame can change attitudes in actors, but not Nunjiani, who continues to be humble. “He is humble and grounded, good, kind hearted soul…” raved Seema Govil of TV Asia Texas and cosmocitymedia.com. She interviewed Nanjiani on the red carpet for TV Asia along with Jay Jayasuriya. “He was very touched when I said I am proud of you,” added Seema with a smile. Dowse, the

director, and Bautista who plays the cop, raved about Nanjiani and his sense of humor. They said that Kumail changed things on the fly and made things funnier. Stuber reviews are already hinting at a 2020 Oscar nomination.

We would not be surprised if this film draws a full house weeks in a row considering the word is already out and people are making a note for July when the film is scheduled to release on the big screen. It would be worth seeing what changes are made in the film it he next four months since it’s work-in-progress. But one thing remains unchanged. Nanjiani’s faith in the believing that a favorable reaction in an audience at SXSW will reflect how the film will do at the box office. Stuber and Nanjiani both got a standing ovation! - @sumaiyasaidthis

Parveen Sultana

On Saturday April 6th, Legendary Vocalist Begum Parveen Sultana will be giving a single concert at the AISD Performing Arts Center at 8 PM. Her four decades of contribution to Hindustani music and her versatile and melodious voice has mesmerized music lovers the world over.

Accompanying her are Pt. Mukundraj Deo on the Tabla and Srinivas Acharya on the Harmonium. This is an exciting event for music lovers she is coming back to Austin after almost 40 years and it is the only stop in Texas of her 2019 US tour. Tickets ($50, $30, $15 for students) are on sale at www.icmca.org

22

THEME: COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS ACROSS 1. Obama to Harvard Law School, e.g.

5. Structure named for 31st President 8. *Academy of Country Music Awards broadcaster 11. Mike Myers’ 2008 role 12. Dumpy establishment 13. Go “Boo!” 15. Somebody ____ 16. Black tropical cuckoo birds 17. Spasm of pain or passion 18. *Grand Garden Arena location 20. Unagi, pl.

21. Liz of “30 Rock” 22. As opposed to B.S, pl.

23. Caesar’s Palace, e.g.

26. Takes and hopes for a ransom 30. Any mountain peak 31. Major airline 34. Bibliographical abbr.

35. Part of a ticket, pl.

37. Drench 38. Israel’s neighbor 39. Millimeter of mercury 40. Like #40 Down 42. Octopus’ defense 43. Regards highly 45. Mr. Miyagi’s forte 47. *Used to crank up the volume 48. Novelist Zola 50. Sushi restaurant offering 52. *Host of awards show 55. Madagascar primate 56. Enthusiasm 57. Adopted son of Claudius 59. 12 for AA attendee 60. Pluribus 61. U2 guitarist 62. *Shay’s other half 63. Giant Hall-of-Famer 64. Don’t let it hit you on your way out?

Austin South Asian | April 2019 DOWN 1. Wrinkles are a sign of this 2. Quiet time 3. Major in the sky 4. European breakfast staple 5. Australian canid 6. Type of deadly flu 7. “M*A*S*H” ____ hall 8. *Hall-of-Famer Smith, June Carter’s ex 9. *The Osbornes, colloquially 10. “Monkey ___, monkey do” 12. Animal in Phillip Pullman’s “His Dark Materials” 13. Lieu 14. *Entertainer of the Year contender 19. Cupid’s mom 22. Auction action 23. Social class among Hindus 24. Certain saxes 25. Sudden growth 26. Yachting cap 27. Skylit lobbies 28. House coat 29. Quench 32. Schools of thought 33. Spinning toy 36. *”____ ____ in the End” 38. Biblical shall 40. Tinkerbell, e.g.

41. Inside info 44. Eastern V.I.P.s 46. Harnessed 48. Audience’s approval 49. *Bebe Rexha’s “____ to Be” 50. Bristle 51. End of grace 52. Office communique 53. Do over 54. Cogito, ____ sum 55. Dropped drug 58. Poetic over

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 May 2019 issue.

To Advertise In ASA Call 512-828-6709

23

Austin South Asian | April 2019

Rama Navami EASTER

(Continued From Page 01) The day is marked by Rama Katha recitals, or reading of Rama stories. Ramayana and Mahabharat are considered Itihasa by Indian traditions. Some Vaishnava Hindus visit a temple, others pray within their home, and some participate in a bhajan or kirtan with music as a part of puja and aarti. Some devotees mark the event by taking miniature statues of the infant Rama, washing it and clothing it, then placing it in a cradle. Charitable events and community meals are also organized. The festival is an occasion for moral reflection for many Hindus. Some mark this day by vrata (fasting).

The important celebrations on this day take place at Ayodhya and Sita Samahit Sthal (Uttar Pradesh), Sitamarhi (Bihar), Janakpurdham (Nepal), Bhadrachalam (Telangana), Kodandarama Temple, Vontimitta (Andhra Pradesh) and Rameswaram (Tamil Nadu). Rathayatras, the chariot processions, also known as Shobha yatras of Rama, Sita, his brother Lakshmana and Hanuman, are taken out at several places. In Ayodhya, many take a dip in the sacred river Sarayu and then visit the Rama temple.

The day is the ninth and last day of Chaitra Navaratri (not to be confused with the autumn Navratri). It celebrates the arrival of Vishnu’s 7th avatar, god Rama. It is marked by the faithfuls with puja (devotional worship) such as bhajan and kirtan, by fasting and reading passages about Rama’s life. Special cities in the Ramayana legends about Rama’s life observe major celebrations. These include Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh), Rameshwaram (Tamil Nadu), Bhadrachalam (Telangana) and Sitamarhi (Bihar). Some locations organize Rath-yatras (chariot processions), while some celebrate it as the wedding anniversary festival (Kalyanotsavam) of Rama and Sita.

The Uttaradhi Math and the Mantralaya Raghavender Swamy math worships the Moola Rama idols at their respective Maths on this day which also marks the aradhana of Kavibdrateertharu.

While the festival is named after Rama, the festival typically includes reverence for Sita, Lakshmana and Hanumana given their importance in Rama’s story. Some Vaishnava Hindus observe the festival in Hindu temples, some ob-

serve it within their homes. Surya, the Hindu sun god, is a part of the worship and ceremonies in some communities. Some south Indian Vaishnava communities observe all nine days of Chaitra Navaratri remembering Rama, and reading the Ramayana, with some temples organizing special discussion sessions in the evening. Charitable events to help those in need and community meals are organized by temples and Vaishnava organizations, and for many Hin- dus it is an occasion for moral reflection.

In Karnataka, Sri Ramanavami is celebrated by the local Mandali’s (organizations) at some places even on footpaths, dispersing free panaka (jaggery and crushed muskmelon juice) and some food. Additionally, in Bengaluru, Karnataka, the Sree Ramaseva Mandali, R.C.T (R.) Chamrajpet, organizes India’s most prestigious, month long classical music festival. The uniqueness of this 80 years old musical extravaganza is that celebrated Indian classical musicians, irrespective of their religion, from both genres – Carnatic and Hindustani – descend down to offer their musical rendition to Lord Sri Rama and the assembled audience.

March 2019 Sudoku Answer Mr.Yudhveer Bagga

(Continued From Page 01) Most Christians refer to the week before Easter as “Holy Week”— it contains the days of the Easter Triduum, including Maundy Thursday, commemorating the Maundy and Last Supper, as well as Good Friday, commemorating the crucifixion and death of Jesus.

In Western Christianity, Eastertide, or the Easter Season, begins on Easter Sunday and lasts seven weeks, ending with the coming of the fiftieth day, Pentecost Sunday.

In Eastern Christianity, the season of Pascha begins on Pascha and ends with the coming of the fortieth day, the Feast of the Ascension.

Easter and the holidays that are related to it are moveable feasts which do not fall on a fixed date in the Gregorian or Julian calendars which follow only the cycle of the sun; rather, its date is determined on a lunisolar calendar similar to the Hebrew calendar. The First Council of Nicaea (325) established two rules, independence of the Jewish calendar and worldwide uniformity, which were the only rules for Easter explicitly laid down by the council. No details for the computation were specified; these were worked out in prac-

tice, a process that took centuries and generated a number of controversies. It has come to be the first Sunday after the ecclesiastical full moon that occurs on or soonest after 21 March, but calculations vary.

Easter is linked to the Jewish Passover by much of its symbolism, as well as by its position in the calendar. In most European languages the feast called Easter in English is termed by the words for passover in those languages and in the older English versions of the Bible the term Easter was the term used to translate passover.

Easter customs vary across the Christian world, and include sunrise services, exclaiming the Paschal greeting, clipping the church, and decorating Easter eggs (symbols of the empty tomb). The Easter lily, a symbol of the resurrection, traditionally decorates the chancel area of churches on this day and for the rest of Eastertide. Additional customs that have become associated with Easter and are observed by both Christians and some nonChristians include egg hunting, the Easter Bunny, and Easter parades.

There are also various traditional Easter foods that vary regionally.

INDIA ELECTION 2019 (continued from page 1) Indians owning a smartphone, half a billion using the Internet, 300 million using Facebook, 200 million sending messages on WhatsApp and 30 million users on Twitter, political parties and candidates will aggressively use new technology and social media to win the hearts and minds of young voters. In 2014, Narendra Modi-led BJP had won 282 seats out of 543 constituencies in Lok Sabha, handing out a crushing defeat to the 10-year-rule of the United Progressive Alliance led by the Congress. This year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will contest from Varanasi for Lok Sabha polls. Congress chief Rahul Gandhi will contest from Amethi in Lok Sabha election 2019. Holding elections in India, the world’s seventh largest nation by area and the second most populous country is a complex process. The model code of conduct has already been put in place for this year’s election where nearly 2,000 parties and over 8,000 candidates will be contesting elections for 543 seats. (Courtesy - ndtv)

24

Austin South Asian | April 2019

Get More Bang For Your Buck With These Spring Home Improvements The warmer weather means it’s time to start thinking about home improvement projects.

tops. White on white is also a popular new style for kitchens and bathrooms.

Whether you’re getting your home in tip-top shape for your own enjoyment, or getting it ready to put on the market, not all home improvement projects are created equal when it comes to return on investment (ROI). Here are top areas on which to focus:

Other features home buyers are paying close

strong and it’s for a good reason. According to the Cost vs. Value Report, the biggest bang for your buck in 2019 will come from replacing a garage door.

The report says the average price is $3,611, and 97.5 percent of it is recouped when the house is sold.

Interiors The kitchen is the heart of the home and it’s one of the best areas to renovate in terms of ROI, according to Remodeling magazine’s annual Cost vs. Value Report, which puts the price tag of the average minor kitchen remodel at $22,507, with 80.5 percent of the cost recouped upon resale.

To give the kitchen an updated appearance, replace the flooring, countertops, sink and faucet.

A fresh coat of paint in a trendy shade, such as Living Coral, Pantone’s Color of the Year, can add a vibrant pop of color to energize any kitchen.

Not looking to go that bold? Consider an accent wall, or stick to a classic palate of gray and white in terms of cabinets and counter-

attention to are laundry rooms and such energy-saving elements as Energy Star appliances and windows, according to the survey “What Home Buyers Want in 2019” by the National Association of Home Builders.

Curb Appeal The popularity of outdoor projects remains

Other outdoor projects with high ROI include a d d i n g manufactured stone veneer to the exterior (94.9 percent), adding a wood deck (75.6 percent) and replacing siding (75.6 percent).

Looking for a simpler way to make an impact? Sprucing up the landscape by planting flowers or bushes or even just clearing the yard of debris will make a big statement.

No matter what updates you end up making, it’s always a good idea to notify your insurance agent.

“Certain upgrades may change the value of a house, so homeowners need to make sure they’re properly covered,” says Bob Buckel, vice president of product management, Erie Insurance.

“There are a few things to look for. Ask your agent about guaranteed replacement cost policies that can cover the cost to rebuild a home in today’s dollars following a covered loss.”

Some upgrades may also make you eligible for discounts, Buckel adds, especially if they make the home more secure.

“For example, Erie Insurance offers certain safety discounts such as for installing smoke alarms or an automatic sprinkler system.”

Now you have a checklist of DIY projects to focus on this spring. But before you start, take a moment to assess which ones are worth your time and money.

(StatePoint)

How To Add Some Excitement To Outdoor Entertaining It’s time to take the party outdoors. Here are some fun ideas for entertaining on the balmy days and nights ahead: • Cool Spread: Host a potluck in your backyard, setting up a long picnic table for guests to display their dishes. You can make things more interesting by adding a theme or challenge.

stars. You can be sure you get a clear, crisp picture with a projector designed to automatically adjust its brightness relative to ambient light.

For example, the XJ-F210WN, part of Ca-

Whether it’s to incorporate a specific seasonal ingredient into every dish or to only bring dips, the possibilities are endless.

combines a laser and LED light source and uses an Intelligent Light Control feature to ensure viewers get great visuals.

Powered on and off in as fast as five seconds, this mercury-free, energy efficient choice is right for hosts who don’t like to make their guests wait.

• Decorate:

Use online tools to help you organize, such as perfectpotluck.com, which gives guests an opportunity to sign up for a specific item ahead of time so there are no duplicates.

• Outdoor Movie Night: It’s easy to turn the backyard into an outdoor cinema. Grab some lawn chairs and blankets and host a movie night outdoors under the

sio’s Advanced Series line of projectors,

and vibrant colors.

Your decorations should evoke the spirit of the season.

Think garlands, fresh flower centerpieces, paper lanterns

• Make Music: No party is complete without music. Whether you’re hosting a jam session or karaoke night, take advantage of the season by taking the musical fun outdoors.

A versatile portable keyboard, such as the CT-X700, can help you get the party started.

It comes with the AiX Sound Source, which faithfully reproduces the sound of acoustic instruments such as guitars, wind instruments and more, as well as 100 built-in songs, 600 tones and 195 rhythms.

It also includes a class-compliant USB-MIDI port that connects to most devices with no drivers or installation needed, making it a good choice for an outdoor set-up.

This season, be the host with the most by taking the party outdoors.

(StatePoint)

25

Austin South Asian | April 2019

Vivekananda Rock Memorial

Vivekananda Rock Memorial is a popular tourist monument in Vavathurai, Kanyakumari, India. It was built in 1970 in honour of Swami Vivekananda who is said to have

moved secretly in the night. The situation turned volatile and the Rock was declared a prohibited area with armed guards patrolling it.

tinued by young men and women coming as Karyakartas of Vivekananda Kendra to spread the following message of Swami Vivekananda: A hundred thousand men and women, fired with the zeal of holiness, fortified with eternal faith in the Lord, and nerved to lion’s courage by their sympathy for the poor and the fallen and the downtrodden, will go over the length and breadth of the land, preaching the gospel of salvation, the gospel of help, the gospel of social raising up, the gospel of equality.

The twin objectives of Vivekananda Kendra are man-making and nation-building. Shri Eknath Ranade decided that Vivekananda Kendra was to be a cadre-based organisation.

Young men and women whose hearts long to serve the nation would be provided the opportunity and the right platform to serve God in man. attained enlightenment on the rock. According to local legends, it was on this rock that Goddess Kumari performed austerity.

A meditation hall known as Dhyana Mandapam is also attached to the memorial for visitors to meditate. The design of the mandapa incorporates different styles of temple architecture from all over India.

The rocks are surrounded by the Laccadive Sea. The memorial consists of two main structures, the Vivekananda Mandapam and the Shripada Mandapam.

In January 1962, on the occasion of Swami Vivekananda’s birth centenary, a group of people formed the Kanyakumari Committee whose objective was to put up a memorial on the rock and a pedestrian bridge leading to the rock. Almost simultaneously, the Ramakrishna Mission in Madras planned about this memorial.

However, this news was not taken in good taste by a sizable population of the local Catholic fishermen. They put up a big Cross on the Rock, visible from the shore.

This led to protests by the Hindu population who said the Rock was a place of worship for Hindus.

A judicial probe ordered by the Madras (now Tamil Nadu) government stated in unequivocal terms that the rock was Vivekananda Rock, and that the Cross was a trespass.

Amid all this acrimony, the Cross was re-

The Government realised that the Rock was turning into an area of dispute with Hindus claiming it to be the Vivekananda Rock and Christians that it was St. Xavier’s Rock.

It decreed that although the rock was Vivekananda Rock, there would be no memorial constructed on it.

The then Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Shri M. Bhaktavatsalam, said that only a tablet declaring that the rock was associated with Swami Vivekananda could be put up, and nothing else. With government permission, the tablet was installed on the Rock on 17 January 1963.

The Living Memorial The establishment of Vivekananda Kendra—the Living Memorial alongside the stone structure of the Rock Memorial—was mentioned in 1964.

After the groundwork of about nine years, Vivekananda Kendra was officially founded on 7 January 1972 (the 108th birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda by the Hindu calendar).

On that day, as the sun rose, a saffron flag with Om inscribed on it was unfurled on the Vivekananda Rock Memorial to celebrate the founding of the Vivekananda Kendra: a spiritually oriented service mission of nonmonastic order.

The tradition of penance was to be con-

When Swami Vivekananda Rock Memorial was blueprinted, it was modeled by E. Thanumalayan, a student of the S. T. Hindu College, Nagercoil, Tamil Nadu. He modeled it with paraffin wax.

The Memorial is the fusion of West Bengal and Tamil Nadu architecture and the design of Ramakrishna Math, Belur, West Bengal.

He was deeply appreciated by the then Madras Chief Minister Bhaktavatsalam for its aesthetic quality.

Vivekananda Mandapam This Mandapam, which is erected in honour

of Vivekananda consists of the following sections: Dhyana Mandapam is the meditation Hall with six adjacent rooms.

Sabha Mandapam is the Assembly Hall consists Pralima Mandapam (statue section) two rooms, a corridor and an open prakaram(outer courtyard) round the Sabha Mandapam.

Mukha Mandapam Namashtubhyam to the Son of jagadamba This is the place where he got his aim of life.

Mata Parvati called him to come there and to know the truth of India i.e., what was the glory of india, reasons for its downfall, and how it can be elevated.

Shripada Mandapam This square hall consists of the following structures.

Garbha Graham Inner Prakaram Outer Prakaram Outer Platform Both the Mandapams are so designed that the vision of Vivekananda in the statue would be seen direct towards the Shripadam.

There is also Sri Padaparai Mandapam which is a shrine erected at the spot where the footprint of the Virgin Goddess is seen on the rock.

Akbar And Birbal Only One Question A scholar from faraway lands once visits Akbar’s court. He declared that he is a smart one and no one can answer his questions. The scholar challenges Birbal to answer his question and prove that he is the smartest.

“Would you prefer to answer a hundred easy questions or just a single difficult one?” said the scholar in a pompous tone.

Akbar could sense that the scholar wanted to belittle Birbal.

But Birbal replies with confidence, “Ask me just one difficult question.”

“Alright. Tell me what came first, the chicken or the egg?”, asks the scholar with a thunderous voice.

“The chicken,” Birbal replies.

“How do you know?” the scholar asks mockingly.

“We agreed that you will ask only one question, which you have already done,” says Birbal in response.

26

Music Maestro AR Rahman To Compose Song For ‘Avengers Endgame’

Marvel’s much anticipated upcoming film ‘Avengers: Endgame’ is

According to Indian film critic and trade analyst Taran Adarsh, Rah-

The trailer of the film was released earlier this month, featuring almost every superhero that the fans were eagerly waiting to see in the upcoming installment of the franchise- including Captain America, Thor, Black Widow, Iron Man, Hawkeye and Ant-Man. ‘Avengers: Endgame’ will feature a stellar star cast which includes, Robert Downey Jr., Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson, Benedict Cumberbatch, Don Cheadle and many others.

going to be more special for the Indian marvelites as the film will feature an all-new song composed by Indian music maestro AR Rahman.

man will be composing a song for Indian fans in three languages, Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu. The song will be released on April 1.

lations! So proud and happy,” she wrote and added Best Actor and Best Actress in the hashtags.

Within minutes, Neetu Kapoor’s post was liked by her daughter Riddhima Kapoor Sahni, Sonali Bendre and others.

Take a look at the post here. Neetu Kapoor’s caption is pretty apt, actually.

The morning after the Filmfare Awards, Neetu Kapoor picked out her favourite photo of Ranbir and Alia on stage - holding each other and also their respective trophies - to write down an adorable message.

“And moments like these make you forget all the stress. Congratu-

Let’s take a moment to admire the way Alia and Ranbir look at each other.

Meanwhile, Alia Bhatt’s lengthy thank you note on Instagram also found the mention of a “special one.”

After thanking the entire team of Raazi and also Filmfare, the 26-year-old actress had a special message for “the last but not the

Chhapaak First Look Deepika Padukone marked her attendance for first day at work for Chhapaak movie with her first look from the film.

Directed by Meghna Gulzar, Chaapaak is based on the life and experiences of acid attack survivor Laxmi Agarwal, who is now a TV show host and a campaigner with Stop Acid Attacks.

In the poster, Deepika features as Malti - the name of her character in the film.

least”, which can only presumably be Ranbir Kapoor: “And last but not the least my special one - the one that makes my heart smile and eyes shine.

And shine I will... Because there’s so much to do in life... And this is just the beginning.”

If this was not an expression of love and feelings, then take a look at the video in which Alia Bhatt says: “I love you” to Ranbir Kapoor, who blushes away to glory.

Meanwhile, Meghna Gulzar also described the character of Malti in few words: “She is courage. She is hope. She is Deepika Padukone as Malti in Chhapaak. Shoot begins today.”

Well, we have no words to say.

Why don’t you take a look yourself?

Monday marks Chhapaak’s first day of shoot. Deepika Padukone flew in to the National Capital on Holi to prep for her first day at work.

Ahead of Holi, Deepika and Meghna Gulzar had shared pictures from the film’s script reading session where we also spotted her co-star Vikrant Massey. He plays the role of Malti’s partner in Chhapaak.

The film is all set to hit the theatres on April 26.

This Alia Bhatt-Ranbir Kapoor Filmfare Moment Made Neetu Kapoor ‘Forget Stress’ At the 64th Filmfare Awards, Alia Bhatt won Best Actress while boyfriend Ranbir Kapoor won Best Actor and the loudest cheer leader for the couple was Ranbir’s mother Neetu Kapoor.

Austin South Asian | April 2019

Earlier this year, Deepika Padukone briefly told us what Chhapaak is all about in a tweet and wrote: “A story of trauma and triumph. And the unquashable human spirit.”

Deepika as Malti will indeed put a smile on your face and will be remembered forever.

Here’s how she introduced her first look from Chhapaak: “A character that will stay with me forever... Malti. Shoot begins today!

Chhapaak!”

Chhapaak will mark Deepika’s first film after her wedding to Ranveer Singh.

She is also co-producing the movie along with Fox Star Studios. Chhapaak is scheduled to hit screens on January 10 next year.

(Courtesy: www.ndtv.com)

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Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor were spotted at the Filmfare Awards hand-in-hand.

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They shared the front row with Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh and the quartet hung out together throughout the evening.

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Alia Bhatt’s Raazi took home five Filmfare trophies - the highest for a film this year.

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(Courtesy: www.ndtv.com)

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Austin South Asian | April 2019

Kangana Ranaut Says She Deserves A National Award For Her Film ‘Manikarnika: The Queen Of Jhansi’!

Kangana Ranaut is back with yet another controversial statement

historical drama, then it will lead to questions on their credibility.

karnika.

In Andhadhun

that.”

Kangana Ranaut On National Awards

“I think last year, Tabu ji gave an amazing performance in Andhadun. I am floored by what she has done. I think in coming year, it will be revealed. If there will be a better performance than Manikarnika, I will definitely appreciate that but I don’t think it will happen.”

“They visit life coaches, therapists and psychiatrists for their mental peace but they do not know how to work on their inner well being so, I would like to encourage people to turn towards spirituality. Earlier, I didn’t used to tell anyone but now I talk about it. I feel it helps people to connect them with their inner self. It helps to enhance your stamina, concentration, focus and intellect.”

An IANS report quoted Kangana as saying, “I feel there are certain things which if you will not respect, then it is, in turn, disrespectful for that organisation itself.”

No National Award Win Will Create Doubt

which might create a stir. The actress says that if she will not receive a National film Award for her portrayal of Rani Lakshmibai in the

While interacting with the media at her 32nd birthday celebrations, the actress revealed that she is expecting a National award for Mani-

She further added, “So, if I or my film Manikarnika... doesn’t win at National film awards, then it will question credibility of that award ceremony but if I come across other good work then, I will be objective enough to say it’s better than me.”

The Actress Praised Tabu’s Work

Irrfan Khan’s Hindi Medium Sequel, English Medium, To Be Set In The Us; Hunt For Female Lead On Irrfan Khan is back and with a bang. After getting treated for his ailment broad he is back to the Bay and is all set to roll and how!

The film has Pia going abroad and the problems she faces while living with the other students whose first language is English.

It will be interesting to see how Homi adds his own sensibilities to this story. The shoot details of the movie are yet to be out but going by the looks of it, the film will roll soon.

The Actress Opens Up About Her 10-day Silence Experience “I am glad to know that my presence was missed. I think media people were affected a lot when I was out of the city.

I feel everyone should take their time out for themselves. In our culture, spirituality was something that we actively pursued but today’s generation is not aware of

After wrapping her big ticket next ‘Hrithik vs Tiger’ in which she is

Hindi Medium which released in 2017 was what catapulted Irrfan to sudden success. Unfortunately just as a sequel was announced, he was diagnosed with neuroendocrine tumour and had to leave for the states for treatment.

The plot of the story is revealed by the makers and it involves Irrfan Khan’s on screen daughter going to the United States to study further.

The film depicts the struggles of diaspora population after going abroad for studying.

Again a very interesting and a relatable concept. Another highlight of this film is that the movie will be directed by Homi Adajania and NOT Saket Chaudhary who helmed the first part.

He was also supposed to work on Vishal Bhardwaj’s gangster drama which had Deepika Padukone in lead role but the movie was indefinitely postponed because of his deadly ailment. Now, we hope the makers revive the project soon.

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(Courtesy: www.filmibeat.com)

Shamshera

Another important point is that Irrfan’s wife will no longer be played

by Saba Qamar, as there is a ban on working with Pakistani actors. So, the makers are on a hunt for a leading lady opposite Irrfan.

Irrfan will be seen very soon in the Hindi Medium sequel titled very aptly, English Medium.

On the work front, Kangana recently signed a biopic on actressturned-politician Jayalalitha. She will also be seen in Rajkummar Rao’s Mental Hai Kya and Ashwiny Iyer Tiwary’s Panga.

paired opposite Hrithik Roshan, Vaani Kapoor is currently shooting her next Shamshera in which she will be seen sharing screen space with Ranbir Kapoor for the first time.

In this larger-than-life, high-octane entertainer directed by Karan Malhotra, Vaani is set to sizzle like never before as she plays the character of the most desirable and sought after travelling performer

from heartland India.

Vaani is known to be a great dancer but for this role, she is set to challenge her dancing skills and push her limits as an artist. She needs to be extremely proficient in several classical dancing styles to be able to pull off the intricate choreography that is being set for her. The actor has been honing her dancing skills by learning kathak for a few months now and she has been pulling in hours daily to perfect her dancing and body postures.

Vaani Kapoor says, “Since Shamshera is set in a particular time, the dance sequences require me to have a very Indian, very classical body language, which is why I started taking kathak classes to learn the nuances and the grace.

Karan specifically wanted me to adapt to a more traditional Indian dance form and break from the western style to do justice to the choreography that is being set for me.” YRF’s larger-than-life entertainer will have jaw-dropping action sequences and Ranbir Kapoor in a never seen before avatar. Sanjay Dutt plays the merciless nemesis of Ranbir in the project. (courtesy: www.filmibeat.com)

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Austin South Asian | April 2019