Austin South Austin - Oct 2015

Monthly Community Paper | www.austinsouthasian.com | 512-828-6709 | Vol. 8 No. 10

Janmashtami At RMD Pratham Austin Gala 2015

By Sunita Lal Over 4,000 devotees, from newborns to seniors, gathered at Radha Madh a v Dham Temple in Austin to celebrate Shree Krishna J a n mashtami.

The excitement was palpable days in advance when volunteers began preparing for the grand celebrations and decorating one of the largest temples in the U.S. for the

occasion.

In anticipation of the festivities, hundreds arrived a day in advance and stayed overnight at Radha Madhav Dham’s beautiful facilities which overflowed in attempt to accommodate over 300 guests.

As the evening approached, the crowds surged into thousands, backing up the main road leading up to the temple for more than a mile.

(Continued On Page 11)

Navaratri is a festival dedicated to the worship of the Hindu deity Durga. The word Navaratri means

During these nine nights and ten days, nine forms of Devi are worshiped. The tenth day is common-

Navratri

By Mamata Misra photos by Rama Tiru Pratham Austin Gala, held on Sep-

ly referred to as Vijayadashami or “Dussehra” (also spelled Dasara).

(Continued On Page 08)

inside

Life Insurance Tips.......04 National Yoga Month....04 Pakistan News....05,16,17 Sikhs Demand..............06 Students Saving Money On Course Materials.....07 Navratri.......................08

tember 18th in an elegantly decorated ballroom at the downtown Sheraton, attracted over 400 supporters and raised over $160,000 toward Pratham programs. A short

ing world, and success in providing scalable, replicable, effective, and low-cost educational intervention methods to enable (Continued On Page 13)

Schools in Eid al-Adha Pakistan

By Sumaiya Malik On Saturday, September 12, the Austin Chapter of The Citizens Foundation-USA (TCF-USA) hosted its annual fundraiser gala to raise funds to provide education in the destitute areas of Pakistan.

(Continued on page 5)

‘nine nights’ in Sanskrit, nava meaning nine and ratri meaning nights.

documentary film was screened to celebrate 20 years of Pratham’s history, its impact in the develop-

October 2015

Many Muslims in the United States observe Eid-al-Adha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, each year.

This festival commemorates Ibrahim’s (Abraham) willingness to sacrifice his son to God. This fes-

tival also marks the end of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca.

(Continued On Page 20)

October Home Special

512-828-6709 Technology Helps.........09 Smart House................10 Ways To Welcome Baby12 4Easy Ways For Parents15 Teen Charged With Hate Crime -Attack On Sikh..18 Predictions..................18 Protect Your Eyes And Health From................19 OKTOBER MUSIC FEST IN AUSTIN.......................20 Community Calendar....20 Lemon Pickle - Gani......21 Childrens Page.............22 Selling Your Home........23 Entertainment.........24,26 Hard To Accept Complime nts..............................25

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Austin South Asian | October 2015

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Austin South Asian | October 2015

Life Insurance Tips For Every Stage Of Your Life

For many, life insurance is a one-time purchase. But your policy should keep pace with your life circumstances.

September, which is Life Insurance Awareness Month, is a good time to determine whether you have appropriate coverage.

Life insurance plays a key role in financial confidence and planning, according the Lincoln Financial Group’s recent M.O.O.D of America Survey (Measuring Optimism, Outlook and Direction), which found that 77 percent of policy owners feel prepared to protect their wealth compared to 61 percent of non-owners.

potentially pay. Consider locking in lower rates now.

Term life insurance is typically the most affordable option, providing coverage for a set number of years. Identify financial obligations and purchase a policy big enough to cover them. As your financial commit-

Additionally, the survey found that life insurance owners feel more prepared for retirement, and potential income disruption.

Young Newlyweds You may rely on two salaries to maintain your lifestyle. Would one person be able to continue living in the same manner on just one income? Are your savings adequate for your spouse to afford rent or mortgage payments and pay off debts without you?

Premium rates are based on age and health status, so the earlier you buy, the less you’ll

Austin South Asian

Editor: Bala Kumar Marketing:

Jayachitra Vijay -512-828-6709 info@austinsouthasian.com

ments increase, you can add more coverage as needed.

Growing Families Between diapers, childcare, dance lessons, braces and education, raising a child in the

HAPPY

Oct 2 Oct 2

Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti

Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti

Oct 20 Maha Saptami Oct 21 Maha Ashtami

Production: Jyothi Mariswaran

Oct 22 Dussehra (Maha Navami)

Admin: Sharada Dayanidhi

Oct 24 Muharram/Ashura

Publisher: Vidya Kumar

Oct 27 Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti

Circulation: Vasooda Kumar

Oct 30 Karaka Chaturthi (Karva Chauth)

©All rights reserved. No material

Oct 31 Halloween

herein or portions thereof be published without the wirtten consent of the publisher.

The deadline for advertisement and article is 20th of every month.

512-828-6709 info@austinsouthasian.com ww.austinsouthasian.com

Oct 20 Maha Saptami Oct 21 Maha Ashtami Oct 22 Dussehra (Maha Navami) Oct 24 Muharram/Ashura

Oct 27 Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti Oct 30 Karaka Chauth) Oct 31 Halloween

Chaturthi

(Karva

United States can cost around $250,000 for a middle-income family, according to USDA estimates. Life insurance is crucial for allowing your family to maintain the lifestyle you’ve built for them, even if the unthinkable happens.

still need life insurance?

The primary breadwinner should have a policy big enough to replace the income required to see children through to adulthood. But a nonworking spouse might need coverage too. If that spouse was gone, there might be added household expenses, such as childcare.

But, you might also have good reasons to maintain status quo. For example, how big a hardship would it be for your spouse to lose your pension and Social Security benefits?

Revisit your life insurance after the birth of every child. If coverage is lacking, consider a small policy alongside your existing one, which is generally more cost-effective than buying one larger policy.

Retirement-Ready The kids are grown, the house is paid off, and you’re embarking on retirement. Do you

If no one is depending on you financially, it may be safe to scale down and maintain a smaller policy and focus on long-term care insurance instead.

Life insurance can help offset those losses and is useful in helping inheritors pay taxes on a large estate.

Or if you have a cash value policy, perhaps you have plans to leverage it as a source of supplemental retirement income.

Remember, life insurance doesn’t need to be static. It can be adjusted to fit your changing needs. For more tips, visit www.lfg.com. Additional information on the solutions available for meeting specific needs can be found at www.lfg.com/LIAM. No matter your age, plan your legacy and have a clear idea of what to leave behind for your loved ones.

3 Reasons To Stretch Into Shape This National Yoga Month (SPM Wire) Roll out your mat and tug on your sweatband--it’s National Yoga Month.

You can find online pose guides on websites such as yoga.com and yogajournal.com.

Yoga, an activity that has existed for 5,000 years, has long been praised for its many health benefits.

Beginners should start with simple stretches such as the Downward Dog, the Cobra, and the Child Pose.

Here are some reasons why you should make like a tree and pose:

• Yoga is a de-stressing activity. According to the American Yoga Association, yoga relieves tension from muscles and sends fresh oxygen circulating throughout the body.

• Yoga targets many components of physical fitness, including strength, flexibility and endurance.

A series of yoga poses, one type of which is called a Sun Salutation, can be performed in place of or in addition to a workout.

• It’s easy to learn and practice yoga. All you need is a computer and a soft, flat surface on which to do the stretches.

This results in a general feeling of relaxed happiness.

Get the physical health and mental satisfaction benefits of climbing a mountain, with a Mountain Pose at home.

5

Chand Raat In Austin

By Sumaiya Malik

was five days before Eid ul Adha.

time.

Tradition goes that the night before Eid is Chand Raat when the new

It was an evening with music, mehndi, dances, fashionable cloth-

Zarab Kabob, a restaurant on Guadalupe near UT Austin, had set up a stall with Shawarma, kabab roll and drinks.

There was another counter with chaat and dahi baras.

Mehndi counter and desserts were the next two stalls.

moon is sighted one evening before and the hustle and bustle begins in every house planning and cooking for the next day of Eid namaz and festivities.

But the Chand Raat in Round Rock

ing and food.

Hosted in the Holiday Inn on Chisholm Trail by five friends, the evening was a time for women and girls to socialize and have a good

Shazia Uzair, one of the organizers mentioned that the cupcake stall was raising funds for the Syrian refugees.

Elementary school girls who had helped bake the cupcakes managed it.

There was another counter where two mehndi walis were applying henna on (Continued on page 17 )

Austin South Asian | October 2015

Schools In Pakistan (Continued from Page 1) The people of Austin believe that the problems in Pakistan can be solved through educating children who cannot afford to go to school.

Pakistani Austinites have been consistently raising funds for the past four years and have managed to build a free school in Gagar Phatak, a village about 50 km east of the port city of Karachi. The school will impart the same quality curriculum as the well-established schools with modern education.

phasis on educating girls.

The first class of this school in Gagar Phatak is made up of 58 children of which more than half are girls. Through community outreach efforts from TCF representatives, the school’s population will steadily grow in the coming

Named “Austin School of Knowledge,” the school represents their firm belief in empowering children through building a solid foundation.

TCF-USA stands out in its em-

years.

By employing all female teachers in the schools, TCF opens up job opportunities for women and also encourages families to send their female children to school.

dence for Fuzon.

Fuzon’s music, he said that every person working outside Pakistan must project the changing times.

(Ccntinued on page 6)

An Interview With Shallum Xavier Of Fuzon In Austin

By Sumaiya Malik Photography By Shallum Xavier Fuzon, a rock and classical band from Pakistan performed in Austin in September in front of an audi-

ence of about two hundred and thirty people at the Norris Center in Austin.

was the first song from a Pakistani band to be released simultaneously in both the countries.

The band is popular in both India and Pakistan. Their song, Saagar,

The Austin South Asian had a conversation with Shallum Asher Xavier as he relaxed w i t h his colleagues at the Barton Springs area in Zilker Park.

Shallum is the music producer and guitarist.

He also handles all the correspon-

He, along with Emu, has worked hard to bring success and fame to the band.

Their lead singer is Khurram Iqbal.

Shallum has ‘created concerts out of nothing’ and played a big role in bringing the band to Austin, TX. Shallum’s humble nature fit in well with the beat of Austin where people are understated and friendly.

He said that music is his passion and musicians are normal people who only play for creativity.

He was never looking for popularity. He found Austinites helpful and encouraging.

Looking at the Barton Springs pool he couldn’t help commenting on how beautiful the city is.

When asked about what message he would like to give to the people living outside Pakistan who follow

‘We (in Pakistan) are facing threats, but we need people to be positive.’

He added that a lot has changed for the better as people have begun to realize how important it is to enjoy life and appreciate the arts.

Fuzon has been to the US twice before in 2005 and 2009.

They have also played to non-desi audience in the House of Blues in Houston. Shallum has friends in both Indian and Pakistani community.

The group has played in India as well. In an interview with the Express Tribune they recalled their trip to India, “We were playing in Kolkalta when people came and grabbed our feet… — what else would one ask for,” recall Emu and Shallum. Fuzon has three concerts lined up in other parts of the US. We wish them more success.

6

Austin South Asian | October 2015

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are girls. Through community outreach efforts from TCF representatives, the school’s population will steadily grow in the coming years.

By employing all female teachers in the schools, TCF opens up job opportunities for women and also encourages families to send their female children to school.

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With continued support, TCF-USA can continue to bolster the positive role of education in Pakistani society.

The people of Austin came to know of The Citizens Foundation-USA (TCF-USA) through the Clinton Global Initiative.

TCF has built 1,060 and provides education to 165,000 children all over the country.

Of the 1,060 schools, 196 have been constructed because of the generous contributions of TCF-USA donors. The Austin Chapter dedicated the school to all the volunteers who came together to give back to people in need.

In addition to their own school, Austin has supported the operations of 4 other TCF schools.

Sikhs Demand Federal Hate Crime Prosecution After Dupage Prosecutor Fails September 11, 2015 (Chicago, IL) – On the evening of September 8th, Inderjit Singh Mukker, a Sikh American resident in the Darien suburb of Chicago, was viciously assaulted after the assailant pulled up to his car yelling racial slurs, including, “Terrorist, go back to your country, Bin Laden!”

Despite clear hate crime evidence and verbal indications by the Darien Police Department throughout the week that the assailant was going to be charged with a hate crime, the DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office just announced that no hate crime charges will be brought against the offender, who will be tried in juvenile court. This disappointing decision directly contradicts Illinois hate crimes law, which states that a person commits a hate crime when by reason of actual or perceived race

or religion, and regardless of the existence of any other motivating factor or factors, commits an assault, battery or an aggravated assault.

“You cannot address the problem of hate in this nation if you refuse to acknowledge its existence,” said the Sikh Coalition’s Legal Director, Harsimran Kaur. “This announcement is shocking and a completely unacceptable decision by the DuPage County prosecutor. If Illinois is going to drop the ball, then we demand that the U.S. Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecute the offender under federal hate crime law immediately.”

Mr. Mukker, a U.S. citizen and father of two, was on his way to the grocery store when the assailant began to racially taunt

him and aggressively and repeatedly cut off his vehicle. Mr. Mukker pulled over to the side of the road to let him pass, but the driver instead pulled in front of his car and aggressively approached Mr. Mukker’s vehicle. The assailant then reached into the car and repeatedly punched Mr. Mukker in the face, causing him to lose consciousness, bleed profusely and suffer a fractured cheekbone and a laceration to his cheek.

He was rushed to the hospital, where he received six stitches, treatment for lacerations, bruising and swelling.

“This was not a simple case of road rage,” said Harsimran Kaur. “In fact, in my many years of representing hate crime victims, the hate crimes charge is as clear and as obvious as it gets.

(Continued On Page 07)

7

Austin South Asian | October 2015

How Students Are Saving Money On Course Materials College course materials can be cheaper than most college students think. Book and supplies only account for four percent of the cost of attending college among the top 10 most populous colleges and universities (using population rankings from “Forbes”). Books themselves are just a fraction of that four percent.

tive offerings from educational publishing companies, such as adaptive learning platforms, eBooks, eChapters, looseleaf editions, black-and-white editions and print-ityourself editions.

However, during a time when many institutions are raising tuition and other fees, students are finding new ways to cut spending on these materials.

success, say experts. Digital learning presents content in more engaging and interactive ways than traditional counterparts. For more information, visit the Association of American Publishers Back to Campus website at aapbacktocampus.org.

Student spending on course materials this past year was an estimated 20 percent less than the 2007 to 2008 school year, according to statistics from Student Watch, developed by the National Association of College Stores.

This decline can be attributed to innova-

New platforms are not only helping reduce textbook prices, they are increasing student

Resourceful students seeking ways to reduce the price tag associated with their degrees should think beyond scholarships and grants and take advantage of less costly course material options.

Courtesy: Statepoint

Sikhs Demand Federal Hate Crime Prosecution After Dupage Prosecutor Fails

(Continued From Page 06) To ignore the racial element of the crime sends a clear message that State’s Attorney Robert Berlin is not interested in protecting vulnerable communities.” Sikhs wear their articles of faith (including a turban and beard) to show their commitment to justice, equality and the rights of all. While Sikhs have been an integral part of the American fabric for over 125 years, the community has faced disproportionate discrimination and targeted hate crimes in the 14 years since 9/11. To learn more basics about the Sikh faith and community, click here. “I am appalled and disgusted by this decision,” said the victim, Mr. Mukker. “What happened to me on Tuesday night is the definition of hate.” The Sikh Coalition has been representing hate crime victims throughout the United States for the past 14 years and is representing Mr. Mukker in this case. For all media inquires, please contact Media and Communications Director, Mark Reading-Smith. Mark can put you in contact with our Legal team for interviews.

Navratri

8

Austin South Asian | October 2015

(Continued From Page 01) Navaratri is an important major festival and is celebrated all over India.

epic in the Hindu tradition – Lord Krishna worshipped Durga, the Goddess of Shakti, for the victory of the Pandvas.

Diwali the festival of lights is celebrated twenty days after Dasara.

Lord Brahma is cited in the Markandey Purana as mentioning to Rishi Markandey that the first incarnation of Shakti was as Shailputri. Further incarnations of the Divine Mother are: Brahmcharñi, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalratri,

Though there are total five types of Navaratri that come in a year, but Sharad Navaratri is the most popular one.

Hence, the term Navaratri is being used for Sharada Navaratri here.

those days. Gayatri has been the source of the divine powers of the gods and goddesses in the heavens and their angelic manifestations and incarnations.

Navaratri Day 2 Dwitiya : Chandra Darshan Brahmacharini Pujan

are the most important.Other two are observed only by shaktas only

Navaratri Day 3 Tritiya : Sindoor Tritiya Chandraghanta Pujan

Gayatri sadhana was also paramount in the higher level spiritual endeavors of the yogis and tapaswis.

Navaratri Day 4 chaturthi : Varad Vinayaka Chauth

Vasanta Navaratri: Vasanta Navaratri, it’s nine days are dedicated to the nine forms of Shakti (Mother Goddess) in the month of Chaitra (March–April) and is observed during the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon) of Chaitra.

Gayatri Mantra was the core-focus of daily practice of sandhya-van-

Significance:

Navaratri Day 5 Panchami : Upang Lalita Vrat Skandamata Pujan Navaratri Day 6 Shashthi : Saraswati Awahan Katyayani Pujan Navaratri Day 7 Saptami : Saraswati Puja Kalaratri Pujan

The beginning of spring and the beginning of autumn are considered to be important junctions of climatic and solar influences.

These two periods are taken as sacred opportunities for the worship of the Divine Mother Durga.

Navaratri Day 8 Ashtami : Durga Ashtami Mahagauri Pujan Sandhi Puja, Maha Ashtami

The dates of the festival are determined according to the lunar calendar. on which each women follow tradition to wear nine colours of dress on Navaratri.

Navaratri represents a celebration of the Goddess Amba, (the Power).

Navaratri or Navadurga Parva happens to be the most auspicious and unique period of devotional sadhanas and worship of Shakti (the sublime, ultimate, absolute creative energy) of the Divine conceptualized as the Mother Goddess-Durga, whose worship dates back to prehistoric times before the dawn of the Vedic age.

A whole chapter in the tenth mandal of the Rigveda addresses the devotional sadhanas of Shakti.

The “Devi Sukta” and “Isha Sukta” of the Rigveda and “Ratri Sukta” of the Samveda similarly sing paeans of praise of sadhanas of Shakti.

In fact, before the beginning of the legendary war between the Pandavas and Kauravas in the Mahabharata – a foundational Sanskrit

Mahagauri and Siddhidatri in that order.

These nine manifestations of Shakti, are worshipped as “Nava-Durga”. The fifth chapter of the Rudra Sanhita of Shiva Purana also vividly describes the various Divine Emanations of Durga.

Since the Vedic Age of the Rishies, the devotional practices recommended during Navaratri are primarily those of Gayatri Anushthana.

In the Vedic Age of the Indian Culture, the religious philosophy and devotional practices were focused towards true knowledge and ultimate realization of the supreme power of Gayatri (Bram Shakti).

The Vedas were the basis of all streams of spirituality and science

dan (meditation and devotional worship) for everyone. As guided by the rishis, specific sadhanas and upasanas of the Gayatri Mantra were sincerely practiced during the festival period of Navaratri by every aspirant of spiritual enlightenment.

Celebrations:

jan, Maha Navami

Navaratri Day 9 Navami : Ayudha Puja Durga Visar-

On Sunday devi wear red/maroon.

On Monday devi wear white or cream. On Tuesday devi wear orange. On Wednesday devi wear green. On Thursday devi wear yellow. On Friday devi wear silver.

On Saturday devi wear blue or peacock.

The Navaratri commences on the first day (pratipada) of the bright fortnight of the lunar month of Ashwin. The festival is celebrated for nine nights once every year during the beginning of October, although as the dates of the festival are determined according to the lunar calendar, the festival may be held for a day more or a day less.

Traditions of Navaratri

Navaratri Day 1 Pratipada : Ghatasthapana Shailputri Pujan

Of these, the Sharad Navaratri of the month of Puratashi and the Vasanta Navaratri of the Vasanta kala

Durga Puja at Bagbazar Sarbajanin, North Kolkata.

Navaratri is celebrated Four times a year. They are Vasanta Navaratri, Ashadha Navaratri, the Sharad Navaratri, and the Paush/Magha Navaratri.

The beginning of this Navaratri also marks the start of the new year as per the Hindu mythological lunar calendar (Vikrami Samvat).

Ashad Navaratri : Gupta Navaratri, also referred as Ashadha or Gayatri or Shakambhari Navaratri, is nine days dedicated to the nine forms of Shakti (Mother Goddess) in the month of Ashadha (June–July).

Gupta Navaratri is observed during the Ashadha Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon). This is mostly observed by shaktas only Sharad Navaratri: This is the most important of the Navaratris. It is simply called Maha Navaratri (the Great Navaratri) and is celebrated in the ‘pratipada’ (first day) of the bright fortnight of the lunar month of Ashvin.

Also known as Sharad Navaratri, as it is celebrated during Sharad (beginning of winter, September– October).

Pausha/Magha Navaratri: Pausha Navaratri, also referred as Shakambari Navaratri, is eight days dedicated to the nine forms of Shakti (Mother Goddess) in the month of (December–January).

Paush Navaratri is observed during the Pausha Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon).

Shakambhari Purnima is the last day in the 8-day long holiday of Shakambari Navaratri. Most Navaratri begins on Shukla Pratipada except for Shakambari Navaratri, which begins on Ashtami and ends on Purnima in Paush month.

9

Austin South Asian | October 2015

Make The Most Of The End Of Summer

The clock is ticking on the sunniest season. With the end of summer drawing near, considering switching things up to help you make the most of every day.

Macy suggests trying out one of his newest creations -- the Jalapeño Cucumber Margarita, which includes; jalapeño tequila, fresh lime

Redefine Your Vacation Beard

For the gentleman, along with the summer getaway comes the va-

Be Your Own Bartender

“Going on, or returning from vacation is the perfect time to switch up your look,” says Christopher Hunt, Editor-at-Large at AskMen. “If you let your facial hair run wild while you had a few days off -- all the better -- now you have something to play with. Shape it into a sharp goatee or trim it down into a classic, timeless scruffy look. Or shave it all off and start over. You can head into work feeling fresh.”

That new neighborhood hot spot where everyone knows your name?

Your patio. Try experimenting with frosty, whole-fruit drinks recipes like margaritas and adult smoothies, but watch the sugar if the party gets too steamy.

“During a season with high temperatures, you want to stick with bright, refreshing flavors,” says Tom Macy, bartender and coowner of Clover Club. “Stay away from stronger, spirit-forward cocktails and go for drinks with freshsqueezed juice and crisp, seasonal fruits and vegetables. Something that will help you cool down without getting you in over your head.”

civilization with a beard looking a little weary instead of worldly.

That’s no problem -- these furry celebrations of off-the-clock leisure can become your canvas.

juice, simple syrup, ice, freshly cut cucumber slices with the optional addition of cilantro. For the full recipe, visit TomMacy.com.

cation beard. Understandable, as who wants to shave when there are sights to be seen and adventures to be had? It’s easy to come back to

Hunt suggests trying out the new BIC Flex 5 Razor because it has a “Balancing Sphere” that gives better shave control. Its precision edging blade is useful in difficult spots, such as under the nose and around the sideburns. “It’s all about creating a definition for whatever unique facial hair style you choose,

with the right tool for the job,” he says.

Make Workouts Fun Think of the days when you wanted to stay outside all day, running around and playing games. Why not combine friendly competition with your workouts?

Find a park and invite friends or coworkers for an old-fashioned game of “capture the flag.” It’s a fun way to increase heart rates.

Once you’re done, invite your thirsty crew home to check out your bartending skills.

For more lifestyle tips from Macy and Hunt, visit www.BicFlexRazors.com.

Don’t let the end of summer pass you by. With fall almost here, end your summer with new traditions.

(StatePoint)

New Technology Can Help Small Businesses Thrive Only half of U.S. small businesses survive more than five years, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration. This data underscores that small business ownership is no cakewalk. Beyond the classic entrepreneurial challenge of making and sustaining a profit, small business owners now struggle to find time and resources to adapt to new technology, say experts.

“The pace of technological development is as staggering as the ever-changing ways that consumers engage and utilize it. To stay competitive to consumers and to employees, small businesses need to adopt and incorporate online technology into their everyday business operations,” says Seong Ohm, senior vice president of merchandise business services at Sam`s Club. To help entrepreneurs navigate new technology and embrace the evolving business operations landscape, Ohm offers six tips for small business success:

• Speed up payroll: New mobile and tablet apps make tedious tasks easier and more efficient. For example, online payroll apps allow employers to run payroll in under a minute, pay workers by direct deposit, and e-file taxes.

• Protect your sales: The latest payment processing technology can

better protect your business at the point-of-sale. Businesses relying on magnetic stripe terminals face an October 1 deadline to upgrade terminals to accept EMV chipenabled credit cards, which more

securely protect consumers. To avoid bearing liability for fraudulent credit charges, small business owners can depend on merchant services experts to become EMV chip card-compliant, affordably and without hassle.

• Be visible: Even if your business is centrally a brickand-mortar operation, the importance of having an online presence cannot be overstated. It’s not enough to simply have a website, you need to be discovered. Google frequently changes the way it determines search results rankings.

Invest in search engine optimization (SEO) not once, but periodically, to conform to Google’s

make-or-break formulas. A solid social media strategy and mobile capacity for your site will also positively impact your search ranking.

Put the marketing books away and lean on digital marketing experts to audit your current online presence and build a strategy that works for your budget and grows your customer base.

• Stay connected: You may be the one pulling the trigger on big decisions, but that doesn’t mean you are expected to know it all. Seek advice from trusted industry peers or a local SCORE mentor through LinkedIn and social media. Make time for webinars and networking events. Most importantly, stay connected to friends and family during times of stress.

• Get smart about taxes: Set up a legal entity for your business online.

This will allow you to hold on to more of your income and increase your asset and liability protections.

Business taxes can be more expensive and complicated than per-

sonal filing, so find an accountant that gets your business. You can greatly benefit from the assistance of online accounting experts. They will help you take advantage of deductions and tax credits and assist you in filing your frequent, varied deadlines on time to avoid penalty.

• Safeguard your data: Small businesses are often targets of identity theft. Create sophisticated passwords to protect sensitive information. Consider investing in a protection service with round-theclock threat monitoring and recovery support in case of fraudulent activity. To tap into these resources that will create efficiencies when starting or running a business, visit SamsClub.com/benefits.Don’t let the adoption of new technology overwhelm you. Many of these services are more affordable than you think, are easy to update and offer anytime, anywhere access to experts. These tech tools can swiftly fuel your business operations, streamline processes and save you time and money. (StatePoint)

10

Austin South Asian | October 2015

Smart House: Five Ideas To Raise Your Home’s IQ

Remember the first time you met that “out of this world” family, the Jetsons? Fast forward to today, and it suddenly isn’t all that far-fetched.

While we may not have flying cars

or robot maids just yet, the idea of a “smart home” is real.

These five upgrades can go a long way to boost the intelligence of your house.

High-Tech Hub The kitchen is the hub of the home and it sees much more than just meal prep and dinner time. From homework to casual conversation, your family expects more from this already hardworking space. In fact, the kitchen is the number one room where homeowners would like to incorporate technology, according to a recent research study by Moen.

• One-third of homeowners charge devices in the kitchen, according to the Moen study. You can make this task simpler and cord-free with new countertops, such as the Corian line from DuPont, which features wireless chargers seamlessly embedded into its surface.

Or install a docking and charging station with a built-in USB power strip to maximize the number of devices you can charge at once.

• At the top of consumers’ kitchen tech wish list is a hands-free faucet, for good reason. For the convenience of a faucet that senses what you’re trying to accomplish, and with a wave of your hand immediately responds to your needs, check out the slim and sleek new ST? pulldown kitchen faucet from Moen with MotionSense. In addition to the traditional handle, you

can activate the faucet by waving your hand over it to turn it on and off, or by placing your hands or an object under its spout. For more information, visit moen.com/motionsense.

Tech-Savvy Details • Worried about what your appliances are up to when you’re gone?

Whirlpool Smart Appliances with 6th Sense Live technology now allows consumers to access appliances remotely. You can manage refrigerator temperature or lock the dishwasher control console and see when the washer cycle is complete, all from a connected application on a smart device.

• Long gone are the days of shuttling a portable stereo from room to room. A smart system of HiFi wireless speakers and audio compo-

nents can unite a digital music collection. With a Sonos speaker, for example, you can control what’s streaming from any device, and the music can be heard in any room.

• You can transform the mood of a room at the touch of a button with new smart LED lightbulbs that allow you to change the color or brightness any time, even from your smartphone. Studies show that light can affect mood, productivity and eyestrain. By optimizing lighting for each activity, you can live better and enjoy your home more.

Being among the first to embrace new technologies in your home can make it the smartest in the neighborhood.

Courtesy: StatePoint

Americans Spending More For College Out-Of-Pocket The Bank of Mom and Dad is open for business, as parent outof-pocket spending has become the number one source of college funding.

In fact, 62 percent of families did not borrow to pay for college last year, according to a new report.

The national study, “How America Pays for College 2015,” from Sallie Mae and Ipsos, now in its eighth year, found that parent income and savings covered the largest share of college costs -- 32 percent -- surpassing scholarships and grants at 30 percent, for the first time since 2010.

Families covered the balance of college costs using student borrowing, student income and savings, parent borrowing, and contributions from relatives and friends.

While families spent 16 percent more on college in academic year 2014-2015, the report found that fewer families are worried that economic factors would affect their ability to pay for college, fewer eliminated colleges from consideration due to cost, and fewer took

cost-saving measures to control college costs.

“The increase in the amount families are spending appears to be less

about the rising cost of college and more about the choices parents and students are making about how they pay for college,” says Michael Gross, vice president and head of t h e higher education practice at Ipsos Public A f fairs.

“Traditional economic concerns, such as job loss, d e clini n g home values, a n d d e -

creased value of savings, are less worrying for parents this year, allowing families greater freedom to concentrate on college.”

to repay. Supplement your college savings and income by maximizing scholarships, grants, and workstudy.

Still, while the majority of families agree college is an important and worthwhile investment -- and are making such responsible decisions to help pay for it as filing for federal aid, reducing personal spending and working while attending school -- only 40 percent of families have a plan to pay for college.

• Explore federal student loans.

Apply by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form.

“College remains a priority for parents, and they are feeling more confident as they reach into their own pockets and put their money where their values are,” says Raymond Quinlan, Chairman and CEO, Sallie Mae. “It’s gratifying to see families are borrowing responsibly and making efforts to reduce costs.”

To view the complete report, visit SallieMae.com/HowAmericaPaysForCollege. For free tools, such as a college planning calculator, scholarship search and the College Ahead mobile app, visit SallieMae. com/PlanforCollege.

In an effort to move that stubborn statistic and encourage more families to make a college financing plan, the experts at Sallie Mae are expanding their suite of free tools and information. To get started, they recommend these three steps: • Start with money you won’t have

• Consider a responsible private education loan. Fill the gap between your available resources and the cost of college.

For many families, college is one of the biggest investments they will ever make.

Fortunately, as the cost of college trends upward, so too is the incidence of responsible decisionmaking when it comes to financing an education.

Courtesy: StatePoint

11

Austin South Asian | October 2015

Thousands Celebrate Janmashtami At Radha Madhav Dham Temple

(Continued From Page 01) As the evening approached, the crowds surged into thousands, backing up the main road leading up to the temple for more than a mile.

Devotees were welcomed with dinner prasad as they arrived and food stalls selling samosa, dosa, lassi, etc. were set up for those wanting a quick snack or a light meal.

The temple program started with singing of beautiful kirtans revealed by Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj in praise of Lord Krishna. A jhula (decorative swing) was set up for baby Krishna and Radha Krishna deities presiding in the temple were decorated in a spectacular sixteen fold shringar.

The line of devotees eager to have darshan (vision) of Radha Krishna and an opportunity to swing baby Krishna kept getting longer and longer as the evening progressed into the night and continued from 6 pm till midnight.

Sushree Diwakari Devi spoke

about the spiritual significance of Janmashtami. The cultural program started with hundreds of children, as young as few months old adorably dressed as Krishna or Radha, walked alongside their parents or were cradled by their parents, as they participated in the costume contest.

Gupta enthralled everyone with a rich blend of dances presented in a pure Kathak style and vividly bringing to life the Divine pastimes and glories of Lord Krishna.

Music of “Govinda ala re ala…”

(Krishna is coming…) resonated the hall and peeked the curiosity of the crowd, as a team of butter

Children competed in four different age groups and charmed the audience in an overcrowded temple hall. After that Kathak maestro and disciple of legendary Pandit Birju Maharaj, Shree Murari Sharan

thieves led by a young Krishna, approached a butter pot hanging high in air.

Aided by loud cheers from the large hall that was packed with people from wall to wall, the team formed

relaxation, more and more often, travelers are finding ways to treat

shy away from at home, according to a new study.

Americans Find Business Travel A Welcome Escape

Each year Americans make more than 405 million long-distance

Three out of five business travelers admitted to going undercover, creating a new identity with a different name, profession and backstory; a quarter have unleashed their inner Mariah Carey at karaoke and 16 percent have faked an elaborate accent.

In fact, 63 percent of business travelers return to work feeling refreshed and productive, according to the study, which was conducted

by SpringHill Suites by Marriott, a hotel brand helping to redefine business travel by providing features like separate living, working and sleeping spaces, along with small indulgences traditionally reserved for leisure travel. business trips, according to Bureau of Transportation Statistics.

While business trips have not traditionally been associated with

themselves while on the road.

In a city where no one knows your name, travelers have no shame in partaking in activities they usually

So the next time the boss signs you up for some travel, don’t sigh.

Business trips can be a great escape from monotony and an opportunity to discover new destinations.

Courtesy: StatePoint

a three story human pyramid and after a couple of failed attempts finally helped Krishna break the pot.

The energy and excitement kept growing as the dahi haandi (curd pot) breaking led right into raas garba. People danced in joy to the live chanting of Shree Radha Krishna’s name and enlivened by a devotional band. With only an hour to go until midnight, enchanting kirtans of Lord Krishna immersed the audience in devotion. Shortly before midnight, the sound of thunder and lightning filled the air and a leela (enactment of Krishna’s Divine actions) depicting Baby Krishna’s appearance and His arrival in Gokul was presented. Everyone rose to their feet and to the sounds of conches, drums, and

cymbals burst into joyous outcry of “Nand ke anand bhayo….Jai Kanhaiya Lal Ki” which continued for over an hour past midnight until 1:00am.

Overjoyed with the exciting devotional atmosphere of Radha Madhav Dham and family centric activities of the day, steeped in tradition, culture and devotion, people couldn’t stop talking about their experience and several visitors unanimously commented “this was definitely one of the best Janmashtami celebrations we have ever attended”. If you missed this magically devotional experience, check out the photos on our faebook page or in the photo gallery of our website www.radhamadhavdham.org

Make Your Home Smell Great This Fall

When updating your home each season, most of the emphasis is placed on delighting your sense of sight. Why not spend some time on your home’s fragrance? To refresh your home this fall, consider these tips: Start Fresh

With the cooling weather and new beginnings, autumn is an excellent time of year to do a deep clean, just as many do in spring. Clean your refrigerator, pantries and any other areas that contain food, discarding expired items and wiping down surfaces. Reduce mold in humid areas of your home with ventilation and dehumidifiers. Shampoo rugs and take this opportunity to launder seldom-washed linens, like window treatments, dust ruffles and bedspreads. Dust surfaces, such as your bookshelf, coffee table and knick-knacks.

Add Scents Add inviting, festive fall fragrances to your home with classic jar and tumbler candles that evoke the fall experience from the comfort of home -- whether it’s a walk among falling leaves, an afternoon picking berries or a sip of warm cider.

For each room, pick a scent and add candles in a variety of sizes to add

a festive feel to the room with both sight and scent. For example, five new fall 2015 fragrances from Yankee Candle are perfect for bringing the outside in, such as Autumn in the Park, which evokes the scent of fresh peeled apple, fallen leaves, lemon zest and a hint of pumpkin, or Sugar & Spice, a swirl of cinnamon, buttery vanilla and sugar crystals. For seasonal decorating inspiration, including festive fall ideas for fragrance and home décor, visit www.YankeeCandle.com.

Set to Bake You can use fragrance to entice your family’s taste buds too. In fall, it’s time to reunite with your oven and slow cooker. Use in-season ingredients and traditional fall herbs and spices to fill your home with delicious and delightful flavors and aromas. Apple cinnamon crisp and pumpkin pie make for delightful desserts when the weather cools; and warm, inviting stews, soups and chili using autumn’s hearty harvest should include vegetables like squash, fennel and beets and spices like cumin and cardamom.

Out with the old, in with the new: when it comes to scents and flavors, take time to refresh your home in fall with all the best that the season has to offer.

12

Austin South Asian | October 2015

Ways To Welcome A Baby Celebrating a new baby is both exciting and busy.

However, setting up the house and buying new baby items can be expensive.

else who is, simple money-saving ideas from the discount experts at Dollar General can help give you peace of mind that everything is ready for the arrival.

Get Back to Basics Stock up on the essentials before baby’s arrival.

Items like diapers, wipes, bottles and baby lotion are easy to buy and are always useful.

While you’re out shopping, pick up an item with each visit to the store to gradually build your stock at home.

Whether you are expecting a little one, or are shopping for someone

If you’re buying for an expecting mommy, ask her what she needs. This will avoid duplicate purchases.

Take advantage of extra savings by utilizing a digital coupon program like DG digital coupons and save even more when baby items are on sale.

Take Care of Mommy While everyone is excited about the new baby, it’s important to also remember Mommy.

Take time to pamper the mom-tobe with extra attention and ideas that can make her life easier.

One practical way to help her out is by making meals that are quick and delicious.

Retailers like Dollar General offer a variety of easy-to-fix dinner recipes, from appetizers to main dishes to side dishes and desserts, and the ingredients are available at great, everyday low prices.

For ideas, check out the DG easy meals website at www.dg.com/ easymeals.

Make a Gift

DIY is a great way to save money and add your personal touch to any baby shower gift.

You can make a baby gift basket with baby toys, bibs and a photo frame.

Another thoughtful idea is to make a mom survival kit with sweets, scented candles, bath items and a new movie.

Giving gifts with that personal touch not only saves money, but shows the new mom how much you care.

You don’t have to let the stress of expenses get in the way of welcoming a little one!

A little extra effort and preparedness can go a long way to make baby’s arrival fun and memorable.

Courtesy: Statepoint

APPEAL TO NON PROFITS Please help us in updating the contact information.

Please email correct information if you think the published information needs update.

We appreciate if you can also provide a contact number so that your members / community can reach you.

We will also carry this on our website and keep it updated for the benefit of community. email: info@austinsouthasian.com 512-828-6709

Plan Your Holiday Budget Early The holiday season will be here before you know it, and it is never too early to start budgeting for this exciting time of year.

Just as you may tuck away savings for a rainy day or for a big purchase down the line, you can also create a holiday fund.

savings account marked “Holiday Spending.”

Smart Spreadsheets

While many may seek financial absolution in January, the first of the year will be a lot brighter if you avoid seasonal over-spending in the first place.

Here are some simple strategies for setting up a holiday budget and sticking to it.

www.ShopCasio.com.

It is easier to keep track of your purchases when you have an interactive visual to assist you.

These days, it is easier than ever to mathematically calculate your expenditures as certain new models of scientific calculators for the first time offer spreadsheet functionality.

Shopping Strategies

For example, Casio’s new CLASSWIZ fx-991EX scientific calculator allows users to create spreadsheets of up to five columns and 45 rows for a maximum of 170 data items on its high-resolution LCD screen.

Get Started Early Purchasing gifts, decking the halls, throwing holiday parties and getting out of town will come as no surprise, and neither should the associated expenses.

You can end 2015 in the black by planning ahead.

spreadsheet.

Cut back on unnecessary expenditures here and there, diverting that portion of your income to a special

Before hitting the stores, map out your spending with an organized

With its icon-based display and 274 functions, this tool can prove valuable when planning your preholiday season savings.

More information can be found at

Store designers have admitted that floor displays are designed to keep you browsing and to encourage impulse purchases.

You can circumvent these obstacles by being aware of them. For example, the area around checkout is full of grab-and-go smaller items, the purchase of which can easily be justified on a whim.

Making a list and knowing what you plan to purchase before entering a store can help you get in and out without adding more to your cart than you planned.

With smart planning and new tech tools, you can end this year with your coffers full.

Courtesy: Statepoint

13

Austin South Asian | October 2015

Pratham Austin Gala 2015

(Continued from page 1) disadvantaged children learn basic reading, writing, and arithmetic skills.

Vandana Kumar, the president of

and their giving power to change the society in various ways. Dr. Sandeep Shah, who ran the 101mile Tahoe Rim Trail in July in less

Pratham Austin Chapter, illustrated with an example, the problem Pratham addresses: the cycle of interconnected poverty and illiteracy where a family can get locked in for generations. Sadanand Dhume, resident fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and a South Asia columnist for the Wall Street Journal, gave a keynote address highlighting the current economic success of the Indians in the US

than 35 hours, raising $21,000 for Pratham, was honored. Nine-year old Krish Nasta, who had raised $2400 for Pratham by participating in the Pratham Austin Readathon was also honorably mentioned.

Leading a pledge drive, Pratham Austin cofounder Ashish Gupta gave information about Pratham programs, and how funds raised

by Austin chapter are being used in India. In 2015-16 academic

year, Pratham Austin is supporting Learning Camps in 4 districts benefiting 6000 children, 300 volunteers, and 150 villages; 12 Urban Learning Centers in city slums, offering intervention and tutoring to over 1600 primary school children, and supporting over 4000 kids through library, preschool, and computer programs; and Second Chance programs in 2 states enabling 300 women, who had previously dropped out, to complete high school and move on to higher education or vocational training.

Emcees Hema Mullur, and Deep Nasta led a live auction of a few attractive items donated by local businesses and individuals. A specially commissioned painting reflecting Pratham’s work by local artist Suman Sharma received a lot of interest and raised nearly $7000.

For the celebration, music

by Hum A Capella set the

tone as the evening started and Dirty South Dandiya’s energetic dance set the rhythm as the evening progressed, beckoning everyone to leave the dinner table and start tapping. Participants showed their enthusiasm by dancing into midnight with DJ Nish. The success of the gala would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of the gala committee volunteers chaired

by Ishita Paul, the Pratham Austin Board, volunteers of Pratham UT student chapter that made the event flow seamlessly working behind the scene, and the generosity of the Austin community. Sponsors for the event collectively contributed over $90,000 and the guests responded to the pledge drive with a total contribution of $70,000.

14

Austin South Asian | October 2015

Information Technology Solutions Maharudra Homa Sahita Astothara Satha Sahasra (108,000 Shiva Lingas) Lingarchana Om Sri Sai Ram! Shambhave Namah!

For the First Time in Texas Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba Devotees Welcome All to join Celebration of 90 th year of Avatar’s Advent

Maharudra Homa Sahita Astothara Satha Sahasra (108,000) Lingarchana.

Program Encompasses:

Maha Kailasam with Shiva Lingams 120,528

1452 times Sri Rudram chanting per day More than 121 Ritwiks from around the world Date: Oct 31st — Nov 1st 2015 Venue: Austin Hindu Temple Officiated By: Prof. Nanjunda Dikshit, India Assisted By: Dr. Sekhar Bodupalli, California Chandra Sekhar Bodapati, Dallas For more Info Contact: 404-518-4023

Register NOW at http://bit.ly/LakshaLingas go to Devotee Registration page Limited Seating Kailasa is the place where the mind is united with source (Shiva-Shakti) and in peace. The mind evolves and dissolves in 15 phases and at the 16th is one with the source within. The spiritual significance of this offering is to merge the mind into the source by transcending the 15 phases and emerge from the source.

This offering offering entails workship of 108 Mahakailasa Yantas totaling worship of 108,000 Lingas followed by Mahardura Homa (chanting of Sri Rudram at least 1,452 time along with Maha Rudrabishekam and a tenth as offering in sacred fire in 11 Homa kundas.

Organized By:

Venue:

Satya Prema Seva Foundation, Austin, Texas.

(A Non-Profit Charity Organization)

Austin HinduTemple and Community Center

Email: info@satyapremasevafoundation.org

9801 Decker Lake Rd. Austin, TX 78724

15

Austin South Asian | October 2015

4 Easy Ways For Parents To Add Interactive Play Throughout The Day

A child’s development at an early age sets the stage for future success, and interactive play can have a big impact.

not only teaches some meal preparation skills, but also helps develop motor skills.

and more.

2. Playtime: Playtime is as much of a daily activity as bedtime or meal-

Not only does it expand a child’s imagination and social skills, but it can also help develop gross and fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and hand and finger strength.

With success at play, children not only build muscle skills, but also cognitive skills that lay the foundation for aptitude in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

And the best part? Parents can easily provide these benefits during daily routines.

1. Mealtime: Allowing your child to be a little helper in the kitchen

help children develop the skills they need, such as the Step2 WonderBall Fun House, an interactive playhouse that helps toddlers develop hand-eye coordination with put-and-take play using included colorful balls.

Features like tube mazes and an open play concept will enhance your little creative player’s imagination in no time.

3. Bath Time: If you’ve ever had to wrestle your child into the bathtub, you know bath time isn’t always enjoyable.

There are all sorts of bath time toys available, but some of the best ones are items you already have in your home.

Good for hand and arm strengthening, your little chef can help smash potatoes, knead dough, stir foods

time, and it’s an important part of your child’s day.

Look for toys that are fun and also

To work on fine motor skills, try including household objects into your child’s bath routine: plastic cups for pouring water back and forth, strainers from your kitchen and any toys that promote a squeezing motion. Even the act of wringing out a wet washcloth can help develop a child’s hand muscles.

4. Bedtime: Many parents can relate to the struggle of getting children to bed. Make bedtime a time of day that your child looks forward to, by bringing imagination to life with a fun and comfortable bed like the Step2 Hot Wheels Toddlerto-Twin Race Car Bed. It provides an easy transition from a crib to a toddler bed and encourages your little race car driver to enjoy when it’s time to go to sleep.

Toddlers can tap the car headlights on and off, and use the race car tracks located on each side of the bed to race their favorite Hot Wheels cars.

When incorporated throughout the day, interactive play can be beneficial for both parent and child.

Small, but meaningful, everyday tasks can help your child develop and grow.

Continue to have fun and encourage your child along the way as you watch his or her confidence and skills increase.

Home Made Indian Lime Pickle

By Venkappa Gani Pickles are very common in many of the Indian dishes. These will

1 ½ Teaspoon Chilli pepper powder 1 ½ Teaspoon Fenugreek seeds Equipments: 2 quart size glass jars with airtight lids

shown in Pic 1.

Fill sliced limes in the sanitized quart size jars as in Pic 2.

Add salt into the jars, cover jars with airtight lids.

Shake jars to mix salt with limes, put jars in hot sun for 2-3 days.

chilli powder into the jars.

Shake well to get good mix of the powders.

Place jars again in hot sun for one day. Keep shaking jars as needed.

By now you see limes being cooked and change in color.

Limes are soft with pleasant aroma and ready for tasting. You see limes being shrunk in each jar.

Pour limes from one jar to other jar making one full quart lime pickles as shown in pic 3. Store jar in cool dry area.

Pic 4 shows small amount taken out from quart jar for tasting. Always use clean spoon to take pickles from the jar to avoid contamination.

What a wonderful color with mouth watering taste.

Enjoy the naturally made pickles with easy simple procedure.

give good taste to the meal to enjoy it.

Most of pickles are made with oil and spices by cooking. One of the simplest method of making lime pickles without oil using solar energy.

Ingredients: 8 medium size limes 1 ½ Tablespoon Salt

No refrigeration needed and stays good for extended period without any preservatives. It is so simple “ Try it you like it “ Cutting Knife Stainless steel Bowl Procedure: Place limes in bowl wash with water. Then place on towel until dry.

Slice each lime into 8 pieces as

Shake jars periodically while they are in hot sun.

After 3 days roast fenugreek seeds and make powder by grinding.

Add fenugreek powder and hot

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Austin South Asian | October 2015

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Why The Buzz About Manto In Austin

By Sumaiya Malik They say language has no boundaries. Language breaks borders, opens doors and unites people. It answers questions and questions the validity of any divide.

he touched upon subjects that were tabooed in society.

in 2012.

this September, the movie has been a success in Pakistan and will be shortly released in India. The Austinites of Indian and Pakistani origin are wondering if the movie will come to Austin.

They also say that when language joins hands with art, it forms an alliance that goes beyond boundaries.

The South Asian Austin asked Aqeel Ansari, an Austinite well versed in Urdu literature and poetry, why was there so much talk about Manto here.

That is what happened when a biographical Pakistani movie, Manto, revisited a forgotten Urdu writer, Sadat Hassan Manto.

He said, “The truth is that an intellectual who shares his thoughts and ideas in writing belongs to humanity.” Manto is that writer.

Manto was born 1912 in colonial India. He lived and worked most of his life there and then migrated to Pakistan where he only lived nine more years and died in 1955 at the young age of forty-two.

Another Austinite, Neeru Reddy, said that Nandita Das, an Indian

Manto became famous for his short stories and screenplays but was considered controversial because

His language was the problems in societies. Many read his short stories, but Manto did not receive national acclaim until 2005 when the Government of Pakistan issued a stamp with his image and awarded him Sitara-e-Imtiaz post-humously

The idea of making a movie on Manto came about at the time of the writer’s centennial in 2012. Released

movie star and director, is also making a movie about Manto.

The big question is whether the movie will come to Austin. While Bollywood movies are released in Austin regularly, Bin Roye, a Pakistani film with a world release in twelve major cities of the US, did not come to Austin until Austinites got together and arranged for a public showing.

With all this hype, it will only be expected that when Manto does arrive, the house might be full of people beyond boundaries claiming ownership of a writer who wrote in a language understood by all.

ICC NEEDS VOLUNTEERS Please contact ICC or email:

iccaustin@gmail.com

17

Austin South Asian | October 2015

Chand Raat In Austin

(Continued from page 5) the hands of ladies in a cue. One of the mendi wali was a student of St. Edwards.

This was her first time putting mehndi as a business. Her intricate designs won the hearts of the guests.

Jiaa Jabbar, another hostess who also organized Chaand Raat at AARC a few months ago, said that this was an all girls gathering so that all women are comfortable to dance.

Some women shy away from dancing when men are present. She

said that since Eid ul Adha would fall on a Thursday, it would not be possible to host such a party one night before when school is on and people are working.

Iram Sultan took the pictures.

Iram has taken pictures of the community for years and has every album archived and dated with her.

Friends often call her for a specific image and she graciously complies.

CHILDREN ARTICLES

Three other hosts were Shaista Salahuddin, Nuzhat Latif and Saira Usman Malik.

Children Email Us Your Articles To See It In Print

All three were busy making sure that the evening went on smoothly as Indu sang in the back ground to entertain the guests with her melodious voice.

info@austinsouthasian.com

The evening culminated with people dancing the night away.

FREE CLASSIFIED

A few years ago the Austin community gifted her a plaque to thank her for being always ready to take pictures of friends in a gathering.

info@AustinSouthAsian.com

Pakistani Showcase Confirmed For SXSW 2016

By Sumaiya Malik

From March 11 to the 22nd, 2016, a Pakistani showcase of 26 musicians will be in Austin for SXSW. Zeejah Fazli the president of FACE (Foundation of Arts, Culture and Education) confirmed the news today.

Bombay Express The lineup is still being finalized in Islamabad, but the success of the first showcase this year prompted FACE to apply to SXSW again.

The South Asian Austin Newpaper is sharing this information so that the true music lovers can plan to stay in town during spring break.

To Advertise In ASA call

512-828-6709

Authenitic Indian Cafe 100% Vegetarian and Vegan Friendly Tuesday - Sunday 11:00 am - 9:00 pm 1300 N IH35 Building #12, Unit # 216 Austin, Texas - 78753

512-491-5055

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

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Austin South Asian | October 2015

October - 2015 Predictions ARIES (March 21 to April 20): Find the truth before you make that big decision. You will be successful in cutting down on expenses up to only a certain extent. You will have a great opportunity to spend time and learn from very successful and famous people this month.

Running around will be too much and you may even have to travel out of state to attend to some business.

TAURUS (April 21 to May 20): You will hear few encouraging news this month.

Past experience can help you deal with current situations better.

Relationship will keep getting stronger and the final say is yours, but you will need to be quick.

Things will improve at current job and expect full cooperation from new colleagues. You will be able to control your expenses now.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): You may feel little helpless with no real solution. It will be hard to find trust worthy people to discuss the situation. Things will get better at work and people in business will see sales shooting up suddenly. A

close family member may confirm his visit. You may visit a holy place by yourself. You will be working on a bright idea.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22): Emotions will play the major role in decisions regarding your future location and career. Strong Venus in third will take you to places unexplored in the past. Some of you will be suggested minor surgery to overcome health problem. Money will come but disappear fast this month. You will call an expert for his valuable advice and guidance.

LEO (July 23 to August 22): Let the head rule over heart and you will easily resolve a challenging s i t u a t i o n .

Application will go through and the process will start. You will gain victory over your opponents and may receive favorable decision in legal matters pending for long. There will be some encouraging changes at work also. You will buy an interesting item.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22): Lucky planets will bring you closer to few very influential people. You will benefit from

mistakes made by others. Some of you may accept another part time job. Incomes and revenues will keep improving from now and on.

Lease will need to be renewed this month. You may travel to a nice place with family. Park your vehicle at safe place only.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22): You will be looking for little adventure in life and will be successful, but stay within legal parameters.

You will treat yourself with new cloths and some expensive item. Though there is no immediate threat but some fears will continue to occupy mind about career. It will be a better month for people in retail. Money will not be an issue.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 22): Life will become more exciting because of new company. Most of the things you plan will go through without any difficulty. Trip will be good and results will be almost immediate.

Again be careful when it comes to signing any paper or contract. A nice property may slip out of your

reach but you will have no regrets.

You may plan an overseas trip also.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 to December 22): You will finally make up your mind and stop wasting time on unnecessary issues. Focused, You will achieve a lot and finish all pending work and still have lots of time on hand for recreation and to relax. Money wise the roller coaster ride will continue but you will meet all commitments on time. You don’t have to spend fortune to impress some one.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19): This should be an extremely fruitful month. All the planets are very well aligned to help you achieve a lot. Investing in real estate, commercial or residential will be very beneficial.

Things will stabilize at work and from now and onward you will have no fears about career. You will receive a big check in mail and bank balance will grow.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18): Analyze your response carefully and you should not think of retaliation. Its time to fine tune your talents as planets bring back the self confidence. Sun

in house of luck will get you the results for hard work and patience maintained in the past. A child continues to need your moral support and guidance.

Contract signed now will be very beneficial.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20): Take a chance with some one extending not only support but good company. You can make extra money if you put your talent to work.

You may find it difficult to get job done from subordinates. Proposal will be good and the bachelors should not be scared to make the commitment. A child will need your help in doing research about next step.

Pandit Parashar parashar@parashar.com www.parashar.com 925-833-7170

Chicago-Area Teen Charged With Hate Crime In Attack On Sikh

By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS WHEATON, Ill. — Sep 15, 2015, 5:42 PM ET A suburban Chicago teenager already charged with punching a Sikh man during what authorities describe as a road rage incident has been charged with a hate crime, prosecutors said Tuesday.

Further investigation into the incident in Darien on Sept. 8 revealed that the teen yelled racial slurs from his vehicle at 53-year-old Inderjit Mukker, the DuPage County

State’s Attorney’s Office said in a news release. After the two pulled over, Mukker stayed sitting in his vehicle but the 17-year-old resident of nearby Willowbrook approached and punched him in the face, prosecutors say.

“Crimes based on hatred or prejudices have no place in our society,” State’s Attorney Robert B. Berlin said in a statement. “Any physical attack motivated in whole or in part by an offender’s pre-conceived bias against another individual based on race, religion, disability,

ethnic origin or sexual orientation is a crime not only against the victim but against society as a whole.”

The additional charge follows calls from a faith group called the Sikh Coalition for prosecutors to charge the teen with a hate crime after Mukker, a resident of Darien, told the group that his attacker yelled at him, calling him a terrorist. The group said they met with prosecutors Monday and “shared additional evidence and information,” according to a Sikh Coalition news release.

“For the Sikh American community, a formal hate crime charge was never about a harsher penalty, but instead prosecuting the crime for what it was,” Sikh Coalition legal director Harsimran Kaur said. Mukker agreed, saying at a Tuesday rally that he had no doubt about his attacker’s motivation.

“This was a hate crime,” he said. “I was attacked because of the color of my skin and my articles of faith.”

The charge comes after the teen was charged as a juvenile with five counts of felony aggravated bat-

tery — four for allegedly attacking Mukker and one after he allegedly punched a police officer in the face when officers went to his home to arrest him.

It is unusual for minors to be charged with hate crimes and this might be only the second such case in nine years in DuPage County, State’s Attorney’s Office spokesman Paul Darrah said. Because of his age, the teen’s name was not released. An attorney for the teen could not be immediately identified.

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Protect Your Eyes and Health from Harmful “Blue Light”

You already know to protect your eyes from harmful UV-light when you are outdoors. But did you know that another dangerous light emission is all around us -- in our homes, our workplaces and in the palms of our hands?

Children are especially vulnerable to macular damage.

Just as most ultraviolet exposure occurs before 18 years of age, the effects of blue light exposure are also more intense in children, since

Try to decrease blue light exposure throughout the day, and especially in the evenings.

Before bedtime, curl up with a good book instead of your smartphone. Wear protective eyewear at

Austin South Asian | October 2015

5 Things To Look For When Replacing Your Home’s Windows Unlike some home improvements, window upgrades are complex, involving many moving parts. If you are in the market for an upgrade, don’t rush into a decision until doing some research and evaluating

New research is illuminating the dangers of blue light, a high-energy wavelength of light emitted by smartphones, tablets, laptops, LCD flat panel monitors and energy efficient light sources.

The majority of the public spends more than half their waking hours exposed to this light, which can contribute to eye strain and fatigue, macular degeneration and sleep disruption.

“Ten years is a blink of an eye in terms of human history, but will the last 10 years come to be known as the period that changed our vision and health?” wonders Dr. Gary Morgan a VSP Vision Care optometrist.

A whopping 83 percent of VSP eye care professionals reported seeing an increase in symptoms attributable to blue light exposure in their patients, according to a recent survey by VSP. One of those symptoms is eye strain: blue light is myopically defocused in front of the retina, which results in light scatter that we perceive as glare.

Working in a high-glare environment causes the eyes to work overtime, leading to visual fatigue and strain.

But the impact of blue light doesn’t stop there: major university studies have shown that the light can disrupt sleep, interfering with circadian rhythms by suppressing the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates waking and sleeping.

Chronically shifted circadian rhythms have been linked to breast cancer, prostate cancer, diabetes, heart disease and obesity.

what will work best on your home. they hold devices in very close proximity to their eyes and are amongst the most active users of blue light sources.

“In today’s world, children are looking at screens at home and increasingly also in the classroom,” says Morgan.

“There is a growing concern among eye doctors that we’re going to start seeing long-term damage much earlier in life than ever before.”

While it would be virtually impossible to escape blue light, as most people rely on it to live, work and play (and it is even emitted from the sun), there are steps you can take to protect yourself.

the office or at home when using your digital devices.

New lens enhancements for eyeglasses, such as Sharper Image TechShield, can provide a unique defense by absorbing and deflecting incoming blue light to help safeguard the wearer against exposure.

More information about the effects of blue light and protection options can be found at vsp.com/sharperimage-techshield-lenses.html.

Blue light illuminates our world today. But along with the advantages of blue light come serious concerns. Protect your family’s health now.

Courtesy: StatePoint

CHILDREN ARTICLES

Children Email Us Your Articles To See It In Print

info@austinsouthasian.com

Here are five things to consider when replacing your home’s windows, according to the experts at ProVia: • An energy efficient glass package: The right windows will protect your home and keep you comfortable all year long, limiting the sun’s rays from coming through and fading your carpet and upholstery, as well as preventing cold air from entering your home in the colder months. “Test your current windows by touching them. If you feel the outside chill and air coming through, it may be time for a change,” says Wanda Angel, Brand Manager for Doors and Windows at ProVia. Seek ENERGY STAR Certified high-performance windows, ideal for the weather extremes particular to your region.

They should have multiple panes and feature technologies, such as the ComforTech Warm Edge Glazing System, which offers reduced heat loss, warmer glass temperature and reduced interior condensation.

• Warranty: Windows can cost thousands of dollars. Protect your investment by opting for windows that come with a lifetime warranty that includes glass breakage

and seal failure. A comprehensive warranty should also be transferrable to the next homeowner, such as those from ProVia. This feature can potentially increase your home’s value when you put it on the market.

• Weather stripping: Prevent air infiltration through your windows with proper weather stripping.

A bulb seal at the bottom of the window, which is a rubberized seal that compresses to the sill, combined with fin weather stripping on verticals and horizontals, will give you triple weather stripping that acts as a true barrier against drafts, keeping you comfortable and helping reduce utility bills.

• Beauty: Your windows, like any exterior element on your home, should complement its architecture and add beauty to your house.

While certain architectural styles, such as Colonial, once reigned, there’s a new trend toward American Craftsman homes. Forwardthinking window manufacturers are responding to the call by offering grid patterns, stain and paint finishes suitable for this growing need. Interestingly, a new window program at ProVia offers three new series of windows at a range of price points. The series includes ecoLite, Aspect, as well as Endure windows which come with top level innovations in window performance. To learn more, and to find resources on identifying the right windows for your home, visit www.proviaproducts.com.

Make an investment in your home with lasting impact. Seek windows that offer comfort, functionality and beauty for years to come.

Courtesy: Statepoint

20

Austin South Asian | October 2015

October 2015 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: October 4, Sunday, 05:00 PM, Padmasri Aruna Sairam - Lanier High School, 1201 Peyton Gin Rood, Austin. For more details, contact More details www.austinifa.org.

October 10, Saturday, 05:00 PM, Oscar nominee Bombay Jayasri AISD Performing Arts Center 1500 Barbara Jordan Boulevard, Austin, TX. For more details, contact More details www.austinifa. org.

October 16, Friday,

08:00 PM, Gujarati Samaj of Central Texas presents A Dinner & Garba - Raas at Cultural Activities Center, 3011 North 3rd Street, Temple, TX 76501. If you are planning to come please send us an email at vijayvip@aol.com. Admission is free.

October 16, Friday, 10:00 PM, Desi Dhamaka - The Madison, 307 W 5th St, Austin, TX 78701.

Ticket Information: General Available $ 12.00 VIP $ 20.00 October 17, Saturday, 06:30 PM, A Taste of India 2015 - St Thomas

More Catholic Church - Parish Hall, 10205 Ranch Road 620 N Austin, TX 78726. For more information, contact 512-636-1836.

100% of proceeds from “A Taste of India 2015” will support Mobile Loaves and Fishes in Austin as well as St. Mary’s School, run by the Indian Missionary Society in the village of Rahargora, Jharkhand, India. The funds raised will be used to build five additional classrooms that will help provide the extremely poor, tribal children of the area with a good quality education up to the high school level. Currently, due to lack of classrooms and the absence of good schools in the area, these children are able to study only up to the fifth grade.

OKTOBER MUSIC FEST IN AUSTIN

Every year in the month of October comes the festival of Navarathri, one of the most important festivals in India. The nine nights of the festival are celebrated with much fervor. It is celebrated throughout the country but each region has its own specialty. In addition to Poojas, the Navarathri Festival features music, dance, and other arts. To celebrate the Navarathri festival, India Fine Arts has put together an exciting schedule of music and dance in Austin. One of the famous Carnatic nightingales of India Padmasri Aruna Sairam will be featured on October 10th 2015 at Lanier High School auditorium.

Aruna Sairam, is regarded as the Music Ambassador of India, for successfully taking Indian music to the global arena. Steeped in bhava-expression and classical divinity, Aruna Sairam’s music evokes bhakti-devotion in every listener’s soul. She has taught Indian music at Harvard and Banff Center in Canada. She is the Vice Chairman of the prestigious Sangeeth Natak Academy. The US Congress issued a special Congressional proclamation recognizing her musical contribution.

Further, in 2008 she had been ap-

pointed as the Advisor to the Department of Culture, Tamil Nadu, on Musical Education She is an expert in “‘The Wisdom of Vitthala’ and ‘Rang Ahang’ – and are concerts fully dedicated to abhangs in which Aruna sings and narrates stories about these songs. On October 10th, ,the inimitable Carnatic diva, Oscar nominee Bombay Jayasri will be featured in the new AISD Performing Arts Center. Born into a family of musicians with rich lineage and steeped in pedigree music, Bombay Jayashri Ramnath represents the fourth generation of music practitioners in her family.

Jayashri is today among the most sought after Carnatic musicians.

The myriad aficionados, spanning generations, that throng her concerts would bear ample testimony to this. Her work has won her the acclaim of prestigious institutions in India and abroad. Another dimension to music which Jayashri is focused on is in exploring the therapeutic and healing value that music can generate. She has been working closely with institutions caring for autistic children to help open up their senses through the medium of music. This is a deep and long commitment which she

has taken on and a very laudable one at that. THE LIFE OF PI, which was described by President Obama as “an elegant proof of God and the power of storytelling” was nominated for eleven Oscar nominations and got four awards (85th Academy awards). Bombay Jayashri was nominated for the original musical score.

An exquisite ballet based on legendary R.K.Narayanan’s novel “Under the Banyan Tree”. It is a beautiful portrayal in Bharathnatyam language. The cast will be headed by Shijit Nambiar and Parvathy Menon and six other dancers and will be in Westlake Perfroming Arts Center. Under the Banyan Tree by R.K. Narayan is a short but deep meaning story, which prominently focuses on a creative man’s nightmare.

As Tagore said, a poet can compose only as much as God allows him to do. Narayan has won the AC Benson Medal from the Royal Society of Literature and the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award. He was also nominated to the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of India’s parliament. He was nominated to the Nobel Prize for literature multiple times.

October 18, Sunday, 04:00 PM, Bathukamma and Dasara Celebrations 2015 - Virg Rabb Pavilion,Old Settlers Park, 3300 East Palm Valley Boulevard Round Rock, TX 78665. This event is organized by Telanana Development Forum.

October 25, Sunday, 05:00 PM, Ballet UNDER THE BANYON - ( A dance depiction of R.K. Narayan’s novel) - Westlake Performing Arts Center, 4100 Westbank drive, Austin, Tx. For more details, contact More details www.austinifa. org.

October 31, Saturday,

11:55 PM, AMM Membership (Aug 2015July 2016) - Austin Marathi Mandal, PO Box 200182, Austin, TX 78720.

Ticket Information Individual Membership $ 25.00 Family Membership $ 40.00 Life Membership $ 500.00 AMM School fees per kid (Fall 2015 Semester) $ 50.00 AMM Member kids (5-14years) Ganpati event ticket $ 10.00 AMM Member (15 years and above) Ganpati event ticket $ 15.00 Non Member kids (5-14years) Ganpati event ticket $ 17.00 Non Members (15 years and above) Ganpati event ticket $ 22.00

Eid al-Adha (Continued From P:age 01) What do people do?

Many Muslims in the United States celebrate Eid al-Adha with prayers and social gatherings. The Eid al-Adha services can attract thousands of Muslims in various places such as Chicago (Illinois) and Orlando (Florida). Many Muslims of many heritages, including Pakistan, as well as Eastern European and African countries, wear traditional clothes and share their national dishes. It is a time for prayer, sharing meals, handing out gifts and wishing one another well.

Eid al-Adha follows from the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia, in which Muslims are required to make at least once in their lives. Eid al-Adha is also known as the Feast of Sacrifice because it traditionally includes the sacrifice of an animal permitted for food (eg. a lamb) as an act of thanksgiving for God’s mercy.

Some Muslims seek out a farm where they can carry out the sacrifice, but many also send money to their native lands to help fund a sacrifice. Eid al-Adha lasts for up to three days and is a time to seek mercy from God. Public life Eid al-Adha is not a federal public holiday in the United States. However, some Islamic organizations may be closed or offer a reduced level of service and there may be some local traffic congestion around mosques.

In New York City, the day is a holiday for public schools.

Background Eid al-Adha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice or Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates accomplishment. Eid al-Adha also serves as a reminder of when Ibrahim (Abraham) was willing to sacrifice his son to God, according to Islamic belief. The United States government issued postage stamps to commemorate Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha in previous years.

These stamps aimed to highlight the business, educational and social contributions that Muslims made in the United States.

21

Austin South Asian | October 2015

22

Austin South Asian | October 2015 THEME: FAMOUS CANINES ACROSS 1. Ostentatious or vain displays 6. Party barrel 9. *Garfield’s canine friend Odie hates taking one 13. Use a Bedazzler, e.g.

14. Literary “even” 15. Native-born Israeli 16. Salk’s conquest 17. Head of a country club 18. “Well-____ machine” 19. Vacation location 21. *Yellow lab of best-selling autobiography 23. Dashboard unit 24. Nothing to fear but this?

25. Fleur-de-____ 28. Jellystone Park denizen 30. Unlike Pinocchio 35. At another time, to Romeo or Juliet 37. Margarets 39. Be undecided 40. UN civil aviation agency, acr.

41. *Husky, the hero of Nome 43. Australian palm 44. Fraternity K 46. “____ what you sow” 47. Slender or thin 48. Acquiesce 50. A in B.A. 52. Tree juice 53. Gamecock’s spur 55. “____ show time!”

57. *Most famous fictional canine character?

60. *Mystery-solving Great Dane 63. Lifeboat support 64. Rub the wrong way 66. Abomination 68. Plural of #2 Down 69. A guy’s ____ 70. *Buck changed his luck in film, “The Call of the Wild” 71. Breaking updates 72. Born that way?

73. City in western Germany

DOWN 1. OB-GYN test 2. Detected by olfactory system 3. Lawn enemy 4. Rainbow-producing device 5. *Schulz’ beagle 6. “Best ____ secret” 7. “Ever” to a poet 8. Fairytale garden dweller 9. Get-out-of-jail money 10. Goes with “willing” 11. 3-point shot 12. Owned 15. Feeling at a funeral 20. Type of parallelogram 22. Express pleasure 24. Adam’s or Eve’s cover plant 25. *Soviet space dog 26. Pizarro’s conquest 27. Daytime entertainment 29. Necessary equipment or articles 31. Grandmothers, in Britain 32. Pandora’s box contents 33. Old photo color 34. *Lady’s boyfriend 36. No way 38. *Rin Tin Tin has one on the Walk of Fame 42. Relating to sight 45. Teenagers’ emotions 49. Thailand native 51. Larry or Curly or Moe 54. Make believe 56. Coke and Pepsi, e.g.

57. Use a ladle 58. Swear, not curse 59. Elton John and Bono, e.g.

60. *Greyfriars Bobby, type of terrier 61. Overalls 62. ____ log 63. Knotts or McLean 65. Street in Paris 67. They are from Mars?

SOLUTION

Sudoku

Please email your sudoku answers to info@austinsouthasian.com.

Name and photo of the inviduvidual with first correct answer will be published in October 2015 issue.

To Advertise in ASA call 512828-6709

23

Austin South Asian | October 2015

Selling Your Home? How To Get Buyers In The Front Door

Looking to sell your home? Then improve its curb appeal. That’s the advice of realtors who say that many home buyers won’t even get out of their cars unless they like

“Today, buyers can be choosy.

Overgrown bushes, peeling paint or faded shutters are enough to stop some people from even getting out of the car,” says Joanne Meredith-

How do you make sure that your home isn’t passed by?

According to Fypon, a polyurethane manufacturer, the Three C’s of Curb Appeal are Clean, Clutterfree and Colorful.

Experts say that to achieve those goals it’s helpful to take a “top down” approach.

Start with the roof. Is it in good shape, clean and colorful? Does it complement the style of your home?

If a new roof is in your future, consider a polymer slate or shake roofing product, like those from DaVinci Roofscapes.

Offered in 50 standard colors and a multitude of color blends, these hardworking roofs are impact- and fire- resistant and are backed by a lifetime limited warranty.

the way the house looks from the street.

Nolan, real estate sales agent with Laffey Fine Homes.

Working your way down the home, make sure the siding, shutters and trim are in very good shape, making these upgrades before putting your house on the market.

“No buyer wants to look at a home and think that the first thing he or she will have to do is paint, or replace rotting wood trim,” says Meredith-Nolan.

“Low-maintenance products like vinyl or fiber cement siding and polyurethane trim pieces look great and have salability that can be passed on to buyers who don’t want the hassles of long-term maintenance.”

Other improvements to consider for beauty and functionality include vinyl windows and an updated porch balustrade system, which can offer clean lines and make a property really seem to pop.

For a clean, clutter-free exterior, power wash the driveway and walkways, trim back overgrown shrubbery and put away the yard art.

Add pops of color around the outside, like new shutters, a fresh coat of paint on the front door and flowers in pots and window boxes.

prove the look and energy efficiency of your front entry.

Brands like Therma-Tru offer woodgrain and paintable options, as well as attractive accessories like decorative glass doorlites and sidelites that can boost curb appeal and increase light in your foyer.

For a free guide to adding topdown color and products to the home, visit www.fypon.com/design/.

“If you want to get buyers to take your house seriously, spend time to get them through the front door,” says Tom Kabat, a real estate sales agent for 16 years with Welles Bowen Realtors.

“It takes just seconds for a prospective buyer to either connect with or reject your home based on its curb appeal. Invest in your home exterior and you’ll never go wrong.”

Courtesy: Statepoint

Consider a fiberglass door to im-

September 2015 Sudoku Answer Correct Answer: Yudhveer Bagga

Ketika Tyagi

24

Austin South Asian | October 2015

Chiru To Dance To The Tunes Of Cherry! A Voluntary Contribution Putting An End To ‘Lingaa’ Controversy

By Swathi Ganti

News about Megastar Chiranjeevi doing a guest appearance in Pow-

Rumour has it that Tollywood’s top actresses Tamannaah or Ileana will be participating in the song.

However there is no official confirmation on the same. Yennai Arindhal fame Arun Vijay has been chosen as the baddie for this project.

er Star Ram Charan’s upcoming film Bruce Lee has been doing the rounds.

Now the latest we hear is that Chiru will be foot tapping for a peppy dance number in the film.

tainer.

Rakul cast Cherry mega action

The long drawn battle over the repayment of losses suffered by the distributors and theatre owners by screening Superstar Rajinikanth

It can be recalled that Cherry will be seen as a stuntman in the movie.

Let’s wait and see if the Mega Dad and son combination will re create magic on screen or not!

cited to share space with the Om Shanti Om star.

“I am very excited to be working with him (Shah Rukh Khan). He is

best... Impress the audience as they are the king. We need to justify their faith and give our best,” the Highway actress said.

Apparently the film narrates journey of a young girl played by Alia, who falls in love thrice and walking out of every relation with a new life lesson.

“It is too early to talk about the concept of the film,” she added.

Reportedly, the Student of the Year actress has begun shooting for Gauri Khan’s film while Shah Rukh is busy with “Dilwale”. On this Alia says, “The details would be given out soon.”

learning opportunity for her. Johar has announced his next home production with Alia and SRK to be helmed by Gauri Shinde of English Vinglish fame.

It is not clear yet if SRK and Alia would be romantically paired opposite each other in the film.

The 22-year-old actress is very ex-

Though Rajini came forward to

was Rs.12 crores. The Superstar accepted to share the 50%t of the total amount that is Rs.6 crores.

Preet is opposite in this packed enter-

Alia Bhatt Keen To Learn From Shah Rukh Khan

Bollywood actress Alia Bhatt, who would be seen alongside Shah Rukh Khan in Karan Johar’s upcoming film, says working with the superstar would be a great

starrer ‘Lingaa’ is finally coming to an end.

the biggest superstar. It is a dream come true moment,” Alia told PTI. “He is one of the best and respectable actors in the industry.

I would get so much to learn from him. It is a great learning opportunity for me,” she said.

“The pressure comes with every film. As actors we need to do our

Alia is also looking forward to the release of Shaandaar in which she is paired opposite Shahid Kapoor.

“I am excited as well as nervous for the film as after long time my film is coming up. It’s a fun, family film,” Alia said. Shaandaar, directed by Vikas Bahl, will hit the screens on October 22.

compensate the losses suffered by the stakeholders of his film on moral grounds several months ago Distributors and theatre owners who alleged foul play and said they are yet to receive the compensation they were promised.

Some of them tried to stall the release of Vishal starrer ‘Paayum Puli’ the film produced by Vendhar Movies the same banner which acquired the Tamil Nadu distribution rights of ‘Lingaa’.

In a closed-door meeting held yesterday in which the Tamil Film Producers Council members including its President and producer Kalaipuli.S.Thanu, S.Madhan of Vendhar Movies banner and also the prominent distributors and Theatre owners participated.

In that meeting, an amicable solution seems to have evolved as per sources close to Indiaglitz.

The source which had access to what has transpired in the meeting shared the following piece of information with Indiaglitz: The total amount payable as compensation to distributors and theatre owners who had screened ‘Lingaa’

The film’s producer Rockline Venkatesh had to take care of the remaining amount but he could give only Rs.4.5 crores and this was the issue that stalled the settlement to distributors and theatre owners.

Now a prominent distributor Tiruppur Subramanian seems to have volunteered to contribute the remaining amount of Rs.1.5 crores payable to distributors and theatre owners.

Hence all the controversies surrounding ‘Lingaa’ can be expected to end very soon.

Tiruppur Subramanian is a distributor who has screened many Rajinikanth films in the past and he has done this as a token of gratitude to the Superstar.

We will however, wait for an official confirmation from Tiruppur Subramanian regarding this devel

To Advertise in ASA call 512828-6709

25

Austin South Asian | October 2015

Why Is It So Hard To Accept Compliments?

Try a little experiment. Think of someone you love or respect, and offer her a compliment.

Chances are high that she’ll deflect your kind words, if not outright tell you you’re just plain wrong, suggests a new study, which finds that nearly 40 percent of women have trouble accepting compliments.

The next time you get a compliment, consider stopping for a minute to hear the message -- you’re a good friend, a great mom, you work hard, you’re smart, you’re pretty -- and take it to heart.

Be Honest Would you want to hear a compliment that isn’t true?

Then why give that to someone

Instead of focusing on what needs to be done in the future, simply give the compliment then come back later to talk about that other project.

Why is it so hard to accept a compliment? Experts say it can often be associated with societal expectations that women appear humble or demur; and other times it’s because of one’s own negative selfimage.

Tell Them Why When giving a compliment, be sure to tell the other person why.

Simply saying, “You did a great job today” may fall flat.

In an effort to encourage women and girls to lean in and listen to the compliments they receive, Nutrisystem created the #NowBelieveIt campaign.

To learn more, watch their video on Nutrisystem’s YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/Nutrisystem.

Sometimes compliments at work come with a caveat -- a reminder that despite good work, there’s more to be done, such as, “That was great, and don’t forget tomorrow’s deadline.”

Try to elaborate with something like, “You did a great job today and your enthusiasm made our whole team shine.”

Then, pay it forward and tell someone else what you love or admire about them by using these simple tips.

else. Be honest and don’t use compliments as conversation fillers.

Stay in the Present

Shift Your Focus Compliments that include putdowns often leave the receiver

feeling less than flattered.

Try to stay away from saying things like “You look so good for your age” or “You’re an awesome parent considering how busy you are all the time.”

Shift your focus to the compliment itself -- it’s more meaningful on its own.

Dig Deeper According to a recent poll, individuals want to hear compliments that dig deeper into who they truly are, such as ones about their personality, about being a good friend, about what they do, about their intellect and about being a good parent.

Focus on these traits when giving compliments and the receiver will be much more receptive to hearing them and believing them.All it takes is a little practice.

Courtesy: Statepoint

Great Design Tips To Match Your Home’s Architectural Style Adding the right design elements to your home can complete what its architecture hopes to accomplish.

But knowing just what to incorporate to complement -- rather than detract -- from the style of your home can present a challenge.

For example, those who’ve embraced the recent resurgence of bungalows, Arts and Crafts-, Mission- and Prairie-style homes will want to ensure that they maintain the simplicity and warmth of their building’s construction when making upgrades.

made products that mimic nature.

Energy-efficient fiberglass entry doors have the look of real oak, while polymer shake roofing -which looks like real wood but is made of high-performance materials --- will resist deterioration, fire spread and fading from the sun.

keep, while resisting insects, decay and moisture. Brands like Fypon offer exterior accents, as well as textured millwork for the interior, such as easily-stained crown mouldings and baseboards.

Get the look of wooden trim, shutters, louvers and balustrade sys-

Give a nod to your low-pitched roof and open eaves with perfect

Style

Designer glass accents in doorlites and sidelites provide contrast and warmth, enhancing the entryways of Craftsman-, Prairie-, Bungalowand Arts and Crafts-style homes.

Likewise, consider adding silkscreened Mission and Prairie style windows, such as those from the Hy-Lite Home Designer Collection.

Luckily, many manufacturers offer home products to match a wide variety of styles. If you have such a home design and are looking to make improvements, here are some ideas to think about:

They have the right architectural look and feel, yet still allow for light to filter through. Created from tempered privacy glass, they can match your home’s architectural style while offering privacy.

Materials Maintain the rustic feel of your home without sacrificing modern performance by seeking out man-

ments that visitors see. Consider fiberglass entry doors from ThermaTru Corp, which have embraced different architectural trends in its current offerings.

Color tems with easy-care polyurethane products that require minimal up-

exterior accompaniments. After all, these are some of the first ele-

Relaxed and refined, Craftsman style homes offer a variety of op-

portunities to welcome color.

While simplicity is the hallmark of this design style, that doesn’t mean the colors have to be simple. Consider bright colors with contrasting white trim to add personality.

The roof offers a welcoming palette for starting “top down” color selections for the home. “Arts and Crafts style homes, as well as Bungalows, look great with the texture and color of a shake roof,” says Kate Smith, chief color maven with Sensational Color.

Smith recommends a color palette that mimics nature, such as cedar, autumn or weathered gray hues from DaVinci Roofscapes, a brand that offers durable polymer roof products with the natural appearance of wood shake.

When it comes to home upgrades, the choices you make should not happen arbitrarily. Look for product offerings that will unite your home’s design style and appeal.

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Austin South Asian | October 2015

Why ‘Baahubali’ Will Beat ‘Bajrangi Bhaijaan’ In The Box Office Race Soon!

Salman Khan’s Bajrangi Bhaijaan and Prabhas’ Baahubali released a week away from each other and both the films have been instrumental in giving the industry over Rs 1200 crore alone in a matter of two months.

on its opening day itself in the country. That’s by far the highest for any Indian film.

Lauded for its terrific visual effects

It’s been over 50 days to their release but the movies are still running in some theatres worldwide.

W h i l e Bajrangi Bhaijaan is slightly ahead, when it comes to the gross collections globally, the equations are definitely going to change soon. Why? Here’s the lowdown.

Baahubali versus Bajrangi Bhaijaan: Baahubali created history by raking in Rs 50 crore from all versions

People lapped it up and the amount of repeat audience ensured that there was steady flow of money for the film.

In its two month run, the film collected a little over Rs 600 crore gross at the worldwide box office.

Baahubali is now the third highest grossing Indian film ever with Rs 602 crore in its kitty.

On the contrary, Bajrangi Bhaijaan, which released a week later scored high on the Salman Khan presence.

But despite having his star presence, BB was an un-Salman film.

Why? It wasn’t mindless and Salman was not doing what he usually does best- his trademark antics were missing. Instead, Kabir brought out the actor in him as he explored the Indo-Pakistan relationship with a lot of human emotions.

and spectacular cinematography, Baahubali won millions of hearts for its stylised sequences and breathtaking VFX.

Brilliant performances and with an extremely emotional backdrop, Bajrangi Bhaijaan soon became the biggest blockbuster of the year so far.

Visually appealing, Baahubali raised the standards of VFX in India by notches and is definitely one of the strongest answers to a 300.

While in India itself, it netted in more than Rs 320 crore, overall the global gross collections stand at a whopping Rs 612 crore. With that, BB has also turned out to be

film’s star Ranbir Kapoor luck.

#Housefull3 boys!!!

Johar began shooting for his di-

Thank you for coming to wish us today!!! @juniorbachchan @Riteishd @bomanirani,” Johar posted on Twitter along with the picture of them.

‘Housefull 3’ Boys Meet Ranbir Kapoor In London

“Housefull 3” stars Abhishek Bachchan, Riteish Deshmukh and Boman Irani paid a visit to the

“Ae Dil Hai Mushkil”, which dwells on relationships and heartbreaks, also stars Ranbir’s “Bombay Velvet” co-star Anushka Sharma and actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in lead roles.

set of Karan Johar’s “Ae Dil Hai Mushkil”, to wish him and the

rectorial venture in the UK capital yesterday. “Thank you to the

Abhishek, Riteish and Boman are in London to shoot the third comic franchise of “Housefull”, which also has Akshay Kumar.

the second highest grossing Indian film ever.

An International version of Baahubali?

After bamboozling the audiences all over, director SS Rajamouli has decided to make a special international version of his magnum opus as well. The international version has been cut down by nearly half an hour from its original 2 hours 39 minutes.

China Release!

Baahubali, the Tamil-Telugu movie that has made more than Rs 600 crores so far, is all set to release in China. China’s E Stars Films has acquired the rights for SS Rajamouli film in China and will now release it in 5000 screens in the country.

The large-scale release in China means that 18% of all theatres in the country will screen this film.

The Chinese version will be 20 minutes shorter than the Indian

one. While the film has already collected more than Rs 600 crore, if it takes off well in China, it could well rake in much more. Currently, it is PK that holds the highest gross overseas collection. Incidentally, it was E Stars that had released Aamir Khan’s PK earlier in China.

Bajrangi Bhaijaan in trouble?

While Baahubali is now having another international version hitting the overseas market in phases soon, BB has no plans to do the same anytime in the near future.

Will this affect Bajrangi Bhaijaan’s position in the collection table?

Yes! The gap between the two films is of merely Rs 10 crore which will easily be bridged once Baahubali hits the Chinese markets. With that, Baahubali will also sail past BB in the overseas game and will emerge as the second highest grosser of all times, tailing PK which sits comfortably at the top with a humongous Rs 752 crore gross collection all over the world.

A Rajinikanth Presence In Kirumi Poster!

As the release date of Kirumi is nearing, the film’s promotional work is on in full swing. In order to pull the crowd’s attention, the

makers of the film have released the posters of the film with the signature of Rajinikanth on it. It may be noted that the producer of the film Jayaraman, is a former assistant who has worked with Rajinikanth for almost 24 years. In fact, Jayaraman who is a hardcore fan

of Rajinikanth approached the legendary actor to get his advice for his debut venture as a producer.

The signature of Rajinikanth on the poster has not only driven his fans crazy but also thrilled the producer of the film Jayaraman.

Being an action thriller with a social message, the film has Kathir of Madhayanai Koottam fame and Reshmi Menon in the lead. Written

by Manikandan, the director of Kaaka Muttai fame, the film is directed by newcomer Anucharan. The film will be released on September 24th under the banner of Escape Artists Motion Pictures along with Kutram Kadithal and Unakenna Venum Sollu. Let’s wait and watch the battle!

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Austin South Asian | October 2015

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Austin South Asian | October 2015