Brisbane Indian TImes - April 2024 Edition

A Division of JD Media Corporation

Print Post Approved PP : 424022 1724 | ISSN 2652-6182

Volume 20, Number 8 Saturday, April 13th, 2024

As God is One, we respect all Religions

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Fiji Freight Specialist (Sea & Air) Chandra family handing over to Deo family The baton has changed hands at the helm of leadership in the only Newspaper that talks.

The Brisbane Indian Times has been the hallmark of a beloved community Newspaper highlighting real issues for real people in a real world. In a courteous and gentlemen arrangement, outgoing Publisher and widely respected and renowned community champion Mr. Umesh Chandra OAM and his family gracefully handed over the reins to Mr. Jitendra Deo and his family.

Mr. Chandra and Mr. Deo and their respective families are no strangers to each other. Both, first Contd. on pg 8

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Inside

• Local News ..................................4-40 • Real Estate ................................11-17 • wwww ...................................... 28-29 • India News ..................................... 42 • Fiji News ......................................... 44 • Entertainment .............................. 46 • Health & Well Being .................... 48 • Business Directory/Classified ... 51 • Sports News ................................... 52

A Division of JD Media Corporation Published Monthly OWNERS / PUBLISHERS: JD Media Corporation Pty Ltd ADVERTISING: 0430 193 715 sales@indiantimes.com.au JOURNALIST/ CORRESPONDENTS • Thakur Ranjit Singh (NZ) • Thilliar Varnakulasingham (NZ) • Shalendra Prasad (Fiji) • Rama Gaind (Canberra) • Ml. Nawaaz Ashrafi • Imam Muhammad Aslam • Pastor Joseph Dass • Haji Abdul Rahman Deen • Jitendra Deo • Nimisha Modi • Ranjita Pillai (Immigration Matters) • Peter Lane Rai • Awadhesh Sharma • Shailendra Singh • Gagan deep Tandon • Ravi Vastrad • Brian Sullivan (Photography) • Amod Datar • Rajesh Chand • Ashok Attri Address: Royal Palm Suites, 2/3 Curban Street Underwood, QLD 4119 Ph: (07) 3192 5188 Fax: (07) 3865 5864 E-mail: prod@indiantimes.com.au Subscriptions: 12 months

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Brisbane Indian Times is a monthly newspaper published in English. No material, including advertisements designed by Brisbane Indian Times, may be reproduced in part or who without the written consent of the manager.

Opinions carried in Brisbane Indian Times are those of the writers and not necessarily endorsed by Brisbane Indian Times. Brisbane Indian Times will not be held liable for any advertising / editorial content - Advertisers supply / approve content therefore should any content be deemed inappropriate it is the advertisers / correspondents responsibility.

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All corresondence should be addressed to: Brisbane Indian Times - 2/3 Curban Street Underwood, QLD 4119. Ph: (07) 3192 5188 Fax: 3865 5864 / prod@indiantimes.com.au

From the Editor: If you would like us to publish your letters, feedback, comments on any of our stories or suggest ideas columns or features, please send your submissions to: Brisbane Indian Times 2/3 Curban Street Underwood, QLD 4119 or E-mail: prod@indiantimes.com.au

2 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024

From the Publisher I begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live in and pay my respects to their Elders past and present. I extend that respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of this great Country of Australia, most of us now call home.

I cannot go any further but convey our heartfelt condolence and sympathy to the family of late Dharmvir Singh, 38, and grandfather Gurjinder Singh, 65 of Melbourne who tragically passed away in a drowning incident in Gold Coast last weekend. Two generation of loving and brave men sacrificed all to save a precious third generation baby girl of the family.

Equally heart wrenching is just earlier this year five precious lives were tragically lost in drowning incidents too. They were 43-yearold Reema Sondi, his nephew Jagjeet Singh Anand, 23, his niece Suhani Anand, 20, and his sister-in-law Kirti Bedi, 20.

To other families in our community victims of all other tragic losses of life in whatever situation, our heartfelt sympathy, condolences, and prayers goes out to each of you.

We plead with you our readers to contribute to the “Go Fund Me” platform for both traumatised families and others, please.

Thank you so much.

This time last year, my family and I had no

clue whatsoever that collectively around our dinner table we would pen our first “Editorial” or “From Publishers column” as has been known in previous publications.

We reiterate our gratitude to the former Publisher family as mentioned in the lead story.

Obviously, this is an enormous and humbling step for us at JD Media proud of our Indian heritage venturing into this western democratic media landscape of the new millennium.

We resolve not to commentate too much on the sometimes-thought provoking comparison of the Media world against Real World, but always mindful our readers, like us, are of course real people journeying in the real world.

Globally, the media has long been regarded as ‘the fourth estate’, a public institution, though most privately owned respectively, is responsible for informing and entertaining the public, facilitating public conversation and debate, and keeping those in power in the Public and Private sectors accountable for their actions that has any bearing on public interest, and in our case the Global Indian interest.

Like you, we in JD Media deeply treasure and proud of our Indianness. We note Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs emphatically asserts Indians

in Australia as a “National Asset”. But we’re humbled that severally over the generations, now and into the future in the public and private sectors world-wide Indians who nationally or internationally make a difference are numerous and no doubt will be featured in our Cross-media services. An endeared reminder that we the over 38 million Global Diaspora Indians are most worthy contributors and investors in global economy, socio-political constructs and human capital that make our world revolves in the cosmos.

JD Media’s Brisbane Indian Times, Australia Indian Radio and soon to be inaugurated Global Indian TV will progressively in the months and years ahead present cross-media contents populated with mouthwatering and at times tear-jerking programming and tabloid readings ably contributed by our trusted esteemed writers whose article has graced this Newspaper for a longtime. Our management has also resolved to invite presenters and contributors in motherland Indian and others sourced from literally all respective major Indian Diaspora on earth, from South Africa, West Indies, USA, Fiji, Uganda, UK, Singapore, and even modernday UAE. It's a shrinking world they say. Our forebears took months of treacherous journey to reach Colonies they were to slave in.

Today, it is only hours traveling in supersonic comfort even catering and bedding provided along the journey.

You will sure enjoy this edition of Brisbane Indian Times. As incoming owners and publishers resolve not to make any sudden changes, yet. You will still enjoy the existing settings and stories contributed far and wide within our community.

March and April are important months for our community. For Muslims, March 11th to April 9th is observance of the Holy month of Ramadan, a period of introspection, communal prayer (Salat) in the mosque, and reading of the Qur'an.

On March 24th and 25th Hindu observed the religious event Holi celebrates new life and the victory of good over evil. A Festival of beautiful colours.

Christian event Easter follows on March 29th to Apil 1st . According to Church leaders is that the true meaning of Easter is about the love Jesus has for us and the purpose and peace He gives us Sikh New year was celebrated in March 14th, while the Sikh “Hola Mohalla” (mock fight”) is a 3 days event.

The Jews “Passover” April 22 – 30 celebrates the escape from oppressive rule.

The common thread of good triumph over evil runs through all these religious events in these two godly months of March and April.

Though the majority of us Global Citizens hope and pray for peace and end of all wars and volatility amongst opposing people grouping But, we can all start in our own hearts where we each are determined for good to always triumph over evil in our life and community.

Let’s look after one another.

Better days ahead of us!

—JD Media Editorial Team

BIT MAY 2024

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024 — 3

A heartening call to re-visit

Queensland

By Rama Gaind Queensland is always calling because there’s so much to see and do there.

It is heartening to learn of the concerted efforts undertaken by Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ) to attract visitors from across the country, and to helping operators recover following recent weather events.

Private tour guide, Natalie Jones, ensured our travel experiences were unique from scenic, staying in plush hotels, partaking of delectable food and wine tastings to exciting land adventures and exhilarating on-water tour or two!

The ‘Unmissable Holiday Deals’ campaign launched in Australia and New Zealand ended last month and was designed to get travellers booking a trip, with more than 500 deals on offer across the state. As well, there are trade and aviation partnership campaigns with Air New Zealand, Helloworld, House of Travel, Bonza, Luxury Escapes, My Queensland, Webjet and Jetstar to support the campaign. Competition is ongoing for great deals.

North Queensland recovery activity continues with the ‘It’s tropical holiday season’ and ‘Tropical Dollars’ campaigns having launched to promote the Cairns & Great Barrier Reef region.

Marketing activities to promote Townsville and the Whitsundays have also got underway to help attract visitors back following recent climate impacts.

Tour operators are relieved to realise that high value tourism sites are looking as fabulous as ever. In Port Douglas, day trips have recommenced to Opal

Aerial image of Cairns. Photo: Tourism and Events Queensland.

Another glorious morning looking towards the Coral Sea – from the Crystalbrook Riley, Esplanade, in Cairns. Photo: Rama Gaind

Glide just metres above the rainforest canopy in one of Skyrail Rainforest Cableway’s comfortable gondola cabins and see the spectacular Barron Gorge in its free-flowing glory.

Photo: Rama Gaind.

Reef, while team members continue work on the critical coral nurture program in between showing off their underwater spectacle.

Another neighbouring operator has reinstated

In Cairns, operators have reinstated their reef tour schedules, while approximately 90 minutes south of Cairns operators are back to taking intrepid snorkellers to beautiful

tours filling some boats with curious reef trippers while also turning into a “floating ferry” service transferring travellers between Cairns and Port Douglas for a super scenic journey.

Beaver Cay, where pink, purple and mauve soft corals pop.

Mark Olsen of Tourism Tropical North Queensland has some reassuring news.

"While certain areas are

grappling with the aftermath, Cairns is ready to receive tourists and provide a warm welcome to those seeking an unforgettable holiday experience."

Tourism in Cairns & Great Barrier Reef has bounced back with operators in the tropics urging travellers not to cancel their getaways and simply “turning up” for a north Queensland holiday. Visitors can help “immensely” to boost the region’s rebound efforts.

Take to the skies for a bird’s-eye view of the tropics. Nature lovers know that after rain the region comes to life with stunning greenery and breathtaking waterfalls. We once again soared above an ancient canopy and saw the spectacular Barron Gorge in its free-flowing glory on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.

The Kuranda Scenic Railway is the original scenic rail journey to Kuranda.

This spectacular experience travels over bridges and through tunnels hand-made by north Queensland's pioneers over 120 years ago. Traversing the World Heritage-listed rainforest of the Barron Gorge National Park, it is considered one of the world's great railway journeys.

Explore Kuranda, the village in the rainforest, just 25 kilometres northwest of Cairns, a charming mix of unusual surprises, colourful characters and natural beauty, perched at the top of a rainforest clad mountain.

Kuranda is also home to the world’s first Cassowary Art Trail. If you are interested in wildlife, you can’t go past Birdworld Kuranda which is home to over 350 birds.

Next door is Kuranda Koala Gardens, one of the few places you can cuddle a koala.

Staying at the Crystalbrook Riley in the heart of Cairns was sensational. It’s a hotel full of little luxuries, from faultless service to an outdoor swimming pool that overlooks the Coral Sea … and the Pacific Ocean is in the distance.

An ultimate great escape!

NO LONGER LIMITED, RESTRICTED AND RESTRAINED BUT TOTALLY FREE

Pastor Suresh Dass Joseph josephdass@optusnet.com.au Dear reader, it is with great joy, we bring you the word of God. Today I want to talk to you about being fully free.

After you have struggled in an area for a long time, it is easy to accept that this is how it will always be. You hoped, trusted, and prayed about it, but nothing has changed. Now you think, “I will always have this

financial difficulty; I will always have to live with this addiction; I will always have to live with my poor health condition.” Now, it is just easy to settle where you are. But you have to realize that this limits you from enjoying and living the life you are supposed to have. You are not fully free to enjoy the life you have been given.

The Bible says, “whom the Son (Jesus) sets free, becomes totally free.”

It doesn’t say partly free, a little free, a small free, but fully free.

Again, in the scriptures, we read (John 5 v 5-9) about a man lying beside a pool with an infirmity for 38 years. For an angel who went down and stirred the water at a certain time, and whoever went into the water first would get healed.

4 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024

Jesus asked the man, “Do you want to be made well?”

The sick man answered Him, “Sir, I have no man to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up, but while I am coming, another steps down before me.”

Jesus said to him, “Rise, take up your bed and walk.”

And immediately, the man was made well, took up his bed, and walked.

This man was now totally free. He was free to move and walk.

Here are 3 things we can learn from this man.

1.

He was a man of invitation. The man thought Jesus had come to help and walk with him into the water. He invited Jesus to be with him while waiting for his miracle. Likewise, when you are going through a health treatment, fighting off an old habit, or dealing

with trouble at work, invite God to be with you.

David says, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff comfort me.”

David understood that he could not stop the troubles coming to him, but when God was with him, he could get through that trouble and come out victorious and totally free.

2.

He was a man of “another step.” Though he had been in that condition

for a long time, he never stopped trying to reach the water. Just because you have failed in the past doesn’t make you a failure. The Bible says, “A godly person may fall seven times, yet they will rise again.” Each time you fail, you are to look at that failure and speak to it, “Yes, I have failed, but you can not hold me back.” You don’t have the final word, but God does. And He is about to set me totally free.

3.

He was a man running his race. He said

other people were trying to get into the water, and so was he. He could have said, “I am close to the pool; I can see the water; I am near enough to have a better life.”

Instead, he was willing to keep on running his race.

You won’t find your future running someone else’s race.

This man needed a miracle, so God freed him from the sickness. Perhaps you may be trying to get out of something. Other people could not help you, and your efforts have failed, yet you have been faithful and trusting in God. Then be encouraged, for God can do the same for you. Your destiny is too great, and your time is too valuable for you to go through another season, restricted, limited, and restrained. God wants you to be fully free.

God bless you!

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A Devotee Has No Personal Agenda Sadhguru: Devotion means taking your emotion to its highest pitch. It is held as the highest form of emotion because it is the least entangling – it is liberating. But if you have your own agendas, don’t waste your time on devotion because you cannot be a devotee.

Devotees are very beautiful people within themselves, but as far as the world is concerned, they are usually insane and unreasonable.

Mirabai, Akka Mahadevi – these were very insane people; you would not be able to live with them.

Once they are gone, you can worship them, but when they were here, nobody could understand what the hell was happening with them.

For example, Mirabai saw herself as Krishna’s wife.

She was always going into such states that it was like Krishna was with her – she danced with him, she loved and kissed him – she was so deeply involved. If you were her husband, are you going to appreciate her devotion?

No. You will go insane with your own problems.

Devotees are like that.

They don’t belong to the logical dimension of life.

I am not saying

I am not saying devotion is completely absent in you. You have emotions, so there is naturally a certain amount of devotion. devotion is completely absent in you. You have emotions, so there is naturally a certain amount of devotion. But if you want to fit into family and social situations and still pursue spirituality, you cannot choose just devotion as the path because you still want life to happen the way you want it. So you need to explore other ways.

You can also attain to the ultimate through your intelligence, through your physical action, or by transforming your inner energies. Every human being is a combination of these four – body, mind, emotion and energy. No human being is just one of these. It is best if there

6 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024

is a combination of these four so that you can still evolve without disturbing external realities. The compromise is that you go slowly.

If you are not bothered about what happens to your husband or wife or your corporate world or anything – if you just want to grow – only

then devotion is a way to attain. It is one of the quickest ways. Devotion and family life, devotion and corporate world, devotion and anything will not go. Devotion means, everything else has to dissolve. That is why if you talk devotion, it is just deception. At some moments when

your experience raises to a certain pitch, a moment of devotion may happen to you. Just wait for that moment. It is very wonderful. But don’t try to pursue devotion as your policy because there is a very deep deception in it.

Ranked amongst the fifty most influential

people in India, Sadhguru is a yogi, mystic, visionary and a New York Times bestselling author Sadhguru has been conferred the Padma Vibhushan by the Government of India in 2017, the highest annual civilian award, accorded for exceptional and distinguished service.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024 — 7

Jitendra Deo JP (Qual) Publisher and CEO Jitendra Deo JP (Qual), passionately called JD, a firstgeneration Australian Migrant and proud descendant of the Indian Indentured labor scheme of the 1800’s. His firm belief in service to humanity inspired him to passionately serve in various organizations.

His entrepreneurial skills and spiritual practices underpin his passion.

Jitendra is no stranger to the Australian Indian Diaspora and community at large. He as founder of the Deo Family Charitable Foundation is the regular host and corporate sponsor of numerous Public and benevolent community events including sole sponsor of the Fiji Independence Day Celebrations and Girmit Anniversary events, Fiji Brisbane Seven a-side, Sanatan Soccer to name a few.

A Director of 8 Companies, now including the JD Media the parent Company of Brisbane Indian Times and other cross-media entities.

Jitendra is no stranger either to cross-media sphere he has been a valued contributor and corporate advertiser to both regional and National Broadcasters and readership.

Jitendra, like many of you, is a humble person and not one to skite around with his long academic, business, community work and philanthropist CV. Though fair to share with you readers at this juncture that Jitendra is a very religious person and carries an aura of unique entrepreneurship and creativity and commands a lot of respect from his business peers, Indian community and multicultural society in Queensland.

The Deo family group of Companies has placed the Deo family in good stead financially. Some with similar financial achievement would retreat away from the mainstream rigmarole of life and lock themselves in their good living and financial security rightly so enjoying the fruits of their hard work.

Not so for this vegetable and cane farmers son for the hunger pangs and near poverty does not haunt him anymore. These life experiences have been the mainstay of his motivation along life’s journey for him and the family to keep investing and believing in people.

Stay with us as we build this cross-media service under JD’s leadership to be a worthy contributor of news, information and entertainment.

Deo young men - Ravneel Deo and Soneel Deo

Shanjeshni Deo Managing Editor Shanjeshni, the muchloved matriarch of the Deo family has stepped into this role with equal vigour as her husband Jitendra passionately has.

Shanjeshni has over the years amassed wide ranging first-hand life experiences from then a migrant humble young wife and mother and since climbing every rung of the commercial ladder to now literally in control of the JD group of Companies.

A trusted early childhood educator committed to holistic educational program design in this fragile field. Over the years ably transitioning to be proficient in research and data management, Corporate Finance planning and Business negotiations.

She is very mindful of the male dominated ruthless and highly competitive National and Global Business spheres in Real Estate, Land Development, Green Power electrification planning and project management. Now in the Cross-Media field as supervising Editor and Executive.

All these challenges and responsibilities she takes on

gracefully in her strides and like her husband Jitendra, her firm belief in service to humanity inspired her to passionately serve various organizations where her matriarchal feminine touch and deep spiritual knowledge and practices underpin her passion.

Devine providence – “everything happens for a reason, both the big things and the small things” as Shanjeshni in retrospect reminiscences her childhood days. She used to stand amazed by the magic of humble family transistor Radio beaming out her beautiful tunes and programs.

She treasures those Radio experiences as her companion in those young days. Years later across the Pacific here in Brisbane she became a regular host of a segment in a Brisbane Hindi Radio Station while her Husband Jitendra a contributor writer to the Brisbane Indian Times.

For the last few years Shanjeshni, Jitendra, and the sons have hosted and solely finance multicultural events and dinner through their

Family Foundation. All events beamed on Radio Broadcast and social media under Shanjeshni’s watchful eyes.

With the added academic brilliance of their 2 sons with their intergenerational thought, the family regularly engages in thought provoking conversation at the dinner and breakfast table on varied topics. Dissected with solemn reverence or with exuberance, depended on the nature of the topic, are headings like their faith, the evidence or lack thereof of portable Hindu culture in the new millennium across time, socio-political pathways, geography and multiracial society. Other topics like family and corporate Finance, Effects of Global Climate Change, even aeronautic doubt of man landing on the moon.

Shanjeshni is confident that with the selected contributors to the editorials now Brisbane Indian Times now enjoys, of course endearing tightknit Deo family counsel, you the readers are assured of services of a very robust editorial team at Brisbane Indian Times.

Together, both the Deo young men, the apples of the parents’ eyes have stuck like glue as trusted ally to the parents Commercial and Benevolent family journey.

Ravneel Deo and Soneel Deo, Electrical Engineer/ Electrical Contractor and Property developer/ Real Estate Professional respectively are alumni of the prestigious Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia.

Both are Directors of the Deo Family Charitable Foundation and key organisers of the Foundations cultural and anniversary events.

For their age, in comparison to many postmodern young Indians in Western Democracies, Ravneel and Soneel are very deeply religious taking pride in our Indian cultural activities specially music and are trained in varied musical instruments and are accomplished singers of bhajans and Hindi songs To their credit, and brings pride of gratitude to their parents, both young men are very well versed with Vedic religion and know Sansakrit Havan Mantra and rituals.

Ravneel and Soneel brings these wealth of

life experiences into the Editorial team as second generation Australian Indians, proud descendants of Girmityas living in the postmodern era in a Western Democracy.

Their combine youthful exuberance will obviously assist keep the Brisbane Indian Times on the pulse of society and uphold this tabloid as the only Newspaper that talks.

Their invaluable editorial contributions will definitely brings generational balance to the Brisbane Indian Times and other cross media entities.

The Brisbane Indian Times under new Management Contd. from pg 01 generation Australian Indian migrants with eternal mutual bonds as descendants of indentured workers the then British Empire colonial era shipped from beloved motherland India to a land unknown and unfamiliar to their honorable forebears.

Migrating first to Australia in the 1980’s Umesh and Usha with then young family from humble beginnings while building a Real Estate and other Businesses did not shun aware from their social responsibility to the multicultural diverse community, they now call

home.

Hence the birth of the now widely read Brisbane Indian Times and later the inauguration of Australia Indian Radio becoming vehicles to express their commitment complimenting their inherent engagement in varied community event and functions.

This exemplary community dedication resulted in the Australia Government’s citation and worthy recognition in bestowing the prestigious OAM to Umesh Chandra, a testament to Umesh’s and of his family unprecedented achievements in service to

8 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024

the Australian multi-cultural community.

These are the proud foundation laid by Mr. Chandra and now the opportunity for Mr. Jitendra Deo and family to build upon and to propel these “Indian” issues in the national and international arena must be maintained, more so with passion and vigor.

To even suggest that the charismatic Mr. Chandra will be taking a back-seat role in news and feature aspects of the “new” Brisbane Indian Times would be unthinkable, like fish out of water. The traditional and faithful readers and supporters are

assured that Mr. Chandra will be around for a while in this transition period.

The people’s voice: your voice on issues that matter to you must still be heard and reverberate into to the ears of the Powers that be in municipal, State, National and Global Leaders. We are a “Forth Estate”!!

Mr. Jitendra Deo has bravely taken on the baton as the Publisher and CEO of The Brisbane Indian Times. The softspoken former High School Teacher and now successful Electrical contractor and Property Developer and Philanthropist, in paying

tribute to Mr. Chandra said “As a businessman and community leader myself, I have been observing Umesh and Usha’s community spirit and dedication for a while now and I learned immensely from their entrepreneurship as first-generation Migrants and their renown services to the community.

Mr. Jitendra added, “I hardly make wrong calculations in my work in the highly charged field as an electrical contractor or Developer, in fact I hardly do, if it means putting my name on any venture. Which I now have the honor to take on the baton and through God’s grace

fill this shoe as Publisher of The Brisbane Indian Times.

I thank Umesh ji for laying a solid foundation as a pioneer in Indian crossmedia in Australia.

“I am at peace that The Brisbane Indian Times is in the good hands of the Deo family” Mr. Umesh reminisced in contentment.

Put on your readers seat belt as The Brisbane Indian Times sours into new heights with Mr. Jitendra Deo on the helm of leadership as Publisher and CEO supported by a dynamic Editorial team and contributors headed by the Managing Editor Mrs. Shanjeshni Deo.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024 — 9

Mahashivratri – Great Night of Shiva – Gayatri Mandir, Boondall

By Dharmesh Prasad Mahadevya Namah Mahashivratri at Gayatri Mandir was celebrated over three days from 7th Mar to 9th Mar, two days of program was conducted by Pujanye Pundit Sanat Pandey and the final day was conducted by Pujanye Pundit Bharat Solanki.

Pt Sanat Pandey expounded Shiva Katha and spoke about Maan aur Anthakarn ki shudi, to read or gain knowledge just by reading the Shastra is just merely an intellectual exercise without enhancing a change in one’s character, Gyan/knowledge requires purification of the heart.

Here, Anthakarn refers to the inner medium of mind and intellect, to embark on the journey of spirituality one must work upon himself/herself to cultivate the virtues, habits, behaviours, and attitudes that purify one’s life and illuminate it with divine light of knowledge.

Mahashivratri was celebrated with great fervour, blissful rendition of shiva bhajan. On the

final day, Shiv Abhishek was performed by devotees led by Pt Bharat Solanki, he explained the significance of Abhishek, it is an ancient Hindu practise of pouring water, milk, yoghurt, honey and ghee over the shiva Linga to honour Shiva and attain his blessings.

Shiva Linga reminds us that Shiva is the source of creation, protection and destruction(dissolves) the universe, Shiva is omnipresent, omniscient and omnipotent.

Mahashivratri is celebration of many qualities and deeds of Shiva, there are many different schools of thought and approach.

On a profound level, there are two aspects in this universe, Shiva and Shav.

Shiv is consciousness/ Chetna and Shav is corpse-dead body. Shiva pervades all living entity, micro and macro, Shiva is shakti/energy. On the Great Night of Shiva planet earth is aligned in such a way that celestial energy enhances each human being based on their personality, disposition, and temperament.

From a tantric Marg

it is divine wedding, mythical union of Shiva and Parvati, essentially Parvati is seated in muladhar chakra and on the great night she travels upward transcending the chakras to unite with her beloved – Shiva whose seat is the crown chakra – sahasrara, the union symbolizes the harmonious balance of opposites, where Shiva, the ascetic and destroyer, finds completeness and companionship in Parvati, the embodiment of divine grace and love.

Management of Hindu Society of Qld takes this opportunity to thank all the Mandali’s for their sewa and look forward for their continued support in future programs.

Annual General Meeting was held at Gayatri Mandir on 26th November 2023, new incoming Management Committee led by President Mr Anit Ram were elected. President elect was away overseas, in his absence, Pt Sanat Pandey acknowledged and praised the previous President Dr Jai Ram for all is hard work and dedicated service to

Hindu Society of Qld invites you to celebrate

Ram Naumi Utsav 2024 Tuesday 9 April to Wednesday 17 April

Program by Pujniye Pundit Sanat Pandey Ji Daily Program Starts at 6pm Pooja Bhajans & Kirtans Pravachan Aarti : 8.15 pm Mahaprashad Served Daily Enquiries President: Anit Ram Vice-President/PRO Neelima Secretary Nirmala Shandil

10 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024

0452470467 0405409156 0466436964

the Society and wished him well in his future endeavours.

The President has promised to continue the hard work and see the completion of the New Mandir project. Devotees will be updated on the new project and a public forum will take place to discuss the next stage of the project.

The following members were elected unopposed in the Management Committee for the year 2023/24 President – Mr Anit Ram Secretary Mrs Nirmala Shandil Treasurer - Mr Rajneel Raj Vice Presidents/PRO Mrs Neelima Chand Vice President – Mr Om Deo Mishra Committee Members Ms Manju – Assistant Secretary Brijesh Singh – Assistant Treasurer Shalend Shandil – Assistant Treasurer Mrs Nirla Pandey – Events Coordinator Ms Reena Prasad – Assistant PRO Pt Sanat Pandey – Fundraising Leader It is heartening to see Bal Vikash has started for the year, we had 15 students last year, however a few of the students are now in high school and we wish them

all the best. Bal Vikash teacher Mrs Nirmala Shandil is continuing to provide sewa and she has vowed to carry on in the capacity as long as she can, that is a welcome gesture by the Management Committee and the parents.

It is also worthy to note and HSQ Management committee would like extend our great appreciation to one of our devotees Mr Rajnil Prasad who has helped HSQ to set up a CRM/ Database, this has gone live from 15th Mar. Lot of work was involved to clean and update devotees’ data, past and present Committee members concerted effort made it possible.

According to Mr Rajnil Prasad, “CRM/Database is essential tool in the modern world, it gives immediate visibility and access to our customers/ devotees, the system is able to do AI, marketing, emails, domain hosting, Social Media and even live streaming”. In the coming months HSQ will be collecting/updating data in the CRM so that it become a central hub to send communication quicker and cheaper.

Hindu Society of Queensland has completed CRM/ database project, many devotees have moved and have

new details as such we are updating membership details like mobile phone numbers, email address etc. This would assist us to communicate better and update members on latest developments at the mandir, please contact Secretary Mrs Nirmala Shandil on 0466 436 964 or Vice President/ PRO Mrs Neelima Chand on 0405 409 156 or alternatively email us at gayatrimandirqld@gmail. com. Many Thanks for your support.

Upcoming Events Somwar Shiva Pooja every Monday: 6.30pm to 8.30pm Ramayan Recital every Tuesday: 7.00pm to 8.30pm 9 April to 17 April Ram Naumi Sundarkand and Triodashi is held every month at the mandir, for details and sponsorship please kindly visit our website and Facebook page. Regular updates will be sent to all devotees via Facebook and SMS. Stay Connected with Hindu Society of Queensland Website www. hindusocietyqld.org.au Facebook: Hindu Society of Qld and email us on gayatrimandirqld@gmail. com Phone: (07) 38653164 Address: 178 Lyndhurst Rd, Boondall QLD

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024 — 11

March Market Smart - Perth, Brisbane and Adelaide Break Records remarkable 1.4% monthly growth, closely followed by Perth at 1.2%, and Brisbane maintaining a steady 1.1% increase.

• The overarching trend indicates a robust market in these cities, defying usual property cycle expectations.

Key Takeaways: • Record-breaking price levels across Perth, Brisbane, and Adelaide,

with the continued rise in property values over the past month.

• Adelaide leads with a

12 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024

Current Market Trends: In an impressive display of resilience, March has seen Perth, Brisbane, and Adelaide continue to break records in the property market. The buoyancy in these cities is particularly noteworthy against a backdrop of national housing market softening in other areas. This month, Perth has continued its

-0.8% annually, suggesting a shift in the local rental landscape.

This could indicate an increase in housing availability or a shift in tenant preferences.

As for the units, Darwin and Canberra demonstrated a notable resilience with increases of 1.6% and 1.2%, respectively, although Hobart experienced a decline of -1.8%.

ascendant trajectory with a 1.2% growth, contributing to a 5.6% quarterly rise which is the highest across all state capitals.

Brisbane, not far behind, has witnessed a 1.1% growth over the month, aligning with a broader trend of property value increases in Queensland. Adelaide, however, steals the spotlight with a 1.4% rise in dwelling values, the highest monthly growth recorded, and an impressive 3.3% increase over the quarter. (CoreLogic, 2024) As we look deeper into these results, the reasons behind such significant growth become clear.

Market dynamics indicate a potent combination of low supply and high demand, bolstered by economic factors that foster investment and residential acquisitions.

Consumer confidence appears to be mirroring these trends, showing signs of positive sentiment despite the looming concerns of rising interest rates and inflation.

The combined regional markets, although experiencing a softer growth of 0.6% over the past month, still present an aggregate growth that competes closely with the capital cities. This indicates a broadening appeal of regional living, which could be attributed to the lifestyle changes post-COVID and the remote work movement.

(CoreLogic, 2024) Looking at the rolling quarterly performance, the divergence between cities becomes even more pronounced. Perth's lead in the quarterly figures is clear evidence of its robust market conditions, while Adelaide's strong performance showcases the city's emerging potential as a growth hotspot. Brisbane, with its consistent growth, continues to indicate that Queensland remains a focal point for both investors and homebuyers.

As we conclude the first quarter of 2024, the records set by Perth, Brisbane, and Adelaide not only mark a pivotal moment in the current property cycle but also underscore the nuanced nature of regional market performances. These cities, riding the wave of

record growth, have firmly established themselves as standout performers in Australia's complex housing market tapestry.

Sydney and Melbourne, traditionally seen as the powerhouses of the Australian property market, have experienced modest changes. Sydney's growth remained positive yet tepid at 0.3% over the month, hinting at a market that is stabilizing after intense fluctuations in previous years. Melbourne, on the other hand, saw a slight contraction of -0.2% this quarter, suggesting a cooling phase as the market adjusts to various economic pressures and a re-balancing of demand.

Hobart's property values stayed nearly flat with a slight increase of 0.1%, indicating a market that may be reaching a plateau after its own period of rapid growth cycles. Darwin faced a minor decline of -0.2%, while Canberra's market also cooled slightly with a -0.4% change. These variations across the capital cities reflect a diverse and multifaceted national housing landscape, where regional differences and local factors play a significant role in shaping the market trends.

(CoreLogic, 2024) The national rental index rose by 2.8% in the March quarter, marking the fastest quarterly pace of rental growth since the same period ending May 2022.

This surge is a testament to the robust demand for rental properties, particularly as housing affordability challenges continue to steer a portion of the population away from home ownership.

In the capital cities, rental growth varied, with Perth witnessing an impressive annual increase of 13.7% for houses, far outpacing other cities. The unit sector in Perth also saw a significant lift, with rents climbing by 15.9% annually, reflecting the city's strong demand for more affordable, dense living options. Adelaide and Brisbane trailed with their own substantial year-onyear rises of 9.1% and 7.6% for houses, respectively.

Conversely, markets such as Hobart are showing a downturn, with rents for houses decreasing by

Things to keep an eye on: Distressed Property Listings: Domain data indicates that distressed home listings in early 2024 are relatively low across most Australian cities, suggesting stable or improving financial circumstances for homeowners. This trend can have a significant impact on market confidence and housing affordability, possibly leading to reduced urgency among buyers and a more balanced market.

Housing Affordability: The gap in unit prices per square meter of floor space between Sydney and other cities has narrowed, hinting at an evolving landscape of housing affordability.

Potential buyers and investors may find opportunities in markets previously considered less accessible.

Consumer Sentiment and Economic Indicators: Consumer sentiment indices suggests that consumer confidence is dipping in response to costof-living pressures and the outlook for the economy. As inflation and interest rate fears only ease gradually, housing-related sentiment has improved slightly but remains cautious. Notably, nearly 70% of consumers still expect housing prices to rise, despite renewed concerns about economic conditions.

Investment Property Interest: Search trends for 'investment property' correlate with investment housing loan commitments, providing insight into future market activity. An uptick in searches may precede a rise in investment, suggesting an increased interest in the property market.

Residential Construction Expectations: The Residential Construction Expectations Index has rebounded, reflecting a positive outlook for the housing construction sector. This could indicate an upcoming increase in supply, potentially easing price growth pressures.

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Disclaimer: Springfield City Group Pty Ltd and their related entities (Springfield) use reasonable efforts to include accurate and up-to-date information. However, errors and omissions sometimes occur. Users are responsible for evaluating the accuracy, completeness or usefulness of the information contained in this flyer. Springfield does not warrant the adequacy, accuracy or completeness of the information shown and expressly disclaims any liability, whether in contract, tort, strict liability or otherwise, for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, punitive or special damages arising out of or in any way connected with this flyer. All information is provided “as is” and is subject to change without prior notice. October 2023.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024 — 15

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024 — 17

Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland आपके संबंध दस ू रों के साथ

स्वामी विवेकानन्द परिव्राजक, रोजड़, गुजरात भारत कुछ लोग विचित्र स्वभाव के होते हैं। वे छोटी-छोटी बात में गस ु ्सा कर लेते हैं, झगड़ा कर लेते हैं। बहुत जल्दी ही दस ू रों से नाराज़ हो जाते हैं। ऐसा करना ठीक नहीं है । क्योंकि जो लोग इस प्रकार का स्वभाव रखते हैं, वे आगे चलकर बहुत दख ु ी होते हैं। धीरे -धीरे दस ू रे लोग भी उनके इस मूरत ्ख ापूर्ण स्वभाव को समझ लेते हैं, और उनसे किनारा कर लेते हैं। उनसे कोई संबंध रखना नहीं चाहते। इसलिए ऐसा स्वभाव अच्छा नहीं है । कोई भी व्यक्ति सर्वगुण संपन्न

नहीं है । सर्वशक्तिमान नहीं है । आप भी नहीं हैं। छोटी-मोटी गलतियां सबसे होती हैं। आपसे भी होती हैं। यदि दस ू रे लोग भी आपकी छोटीछोटी गलतियों पर गस ु ्सा करने लगें गे, तब आपको भी अच्छा नहीं लगेगा। इसलिए आपको भी दस ू रों की छोटी-छोटी गलतियों पर गस ु ्सा नहीं करना चाहिए। जैसे दस लोग आपकी ू रे गलतियों पर गस ु ्सा नहीं करते, बल्कि उनको सहन कर लेते हैं, इसी प्रकार से आपको भी करना चाहिए। तभी आपके संबंध दस ू रों के साथ ठीक बने रह सकते हैं। और तभी आप एक दस ू रे से सहयोग ले दे कर, अपना जीवन सुखपूर्वक जी सकते हैं। यदि आप सख ु पर्व ू क अपना जीवन जीना चाहते हैं। दस ू रे लोगों का सहयोग प्राप्त करके अपने जीवन को सुखी बनाना चाहते हैं। तो दस ू रों की छोटी-छोटी गलतियों को सहन करना सीखें। स्मरण रहे , सब आत्माएं एक समान हैं, आप भी और दस ू री भी। अपने आप को बहुत VIP या विशेष न समझें। सबको सख ु चाहिए। वही व्यवहार दस ू रों के साथ करें , जैसा आप दस ू रों से अपने लिए चाहते हैं। इसी में बुद्धिमत्ता है ।

Samaj Havan Yajna Satsang at Queensland Vedic Cultural Centre

For further information on Havan Satsang program at Queensland Vedic Cultural Centre 198 Learoyd Road Willawong QLD 4110 please contact Vice President Mrs.Sushila Pathik 33146059. ओ३म ्

HOLI NAVA-SASYESHTI with relatives, friends & neighbors; time to unfold our human nature - practice compassion helping the needy, and add colors to their life.

Acharya Bramdeo Mokoonlall Hindu Center of Atlanta

Holi is the spring harvest festival, especially among the community of farmers and known as VĀSANTIYA NAVA-SASYESHTI, (Vasant: Spring; Nava: New; Sasyeshti: Harvest Yajna); time to thank the Almighty, Eeshvar (God) for the bounteous nature; time when we share some time, food, sweets, presents, etc.

FESTIVALS HAVE A VERY WHOLESOME BEARING ON PEOPLE. Festivals break the monotony of life; create an environment of cultural harmony; teach us to bond with one another in friendship; carry moral, ethical and social values of life, that inevitably mix up with entertainment through festivals.

HOLI, HOLAKA & HOLIKĀ • HOLI is the name of the festival.

• HOLAKA is the process of roasting the freshly harvested legumes/pulses (grains growing in pods) on the bonfire fueled by the

straw left of the harvest.

The roasting process gives rise to vapors from the grains is an effective antidote (remedy) for health problems arising out of vāta-pitta-cough (air blockages, bile/acidity & phlegm). The fragrance engenders happiness, satisfaction.

• HOLIKĀ is the pod husk or chaff of any grain (grams, peas, wheat, etc.) that separates from the grains.

Holikā is referred as the mother of the grain, without which the grains would not exist. Planters cheer up as the husk (Holikā) sacrifice itself to save the grains, known as PRAHALĀD. Holi, the bonfire as Yajna Fire purifies (used to extract metals in the purest state from ores in foundries, by goldsmiths). The Holi

bonfire reminds us to burn the evil (thoughts, speech & physical actions) out of our life and make way to add the flourishing mosaic to our life, righteous living (Dharma).

Grains of the new harvest, herbs, sweet, odoriferous substances mixed with ghee are offered to the Holi bonfire. Fire breaks these as micro particles (e.g. the aroma from spices added to heated ghee) and spreading the essential oils therein as medicated vapours to enliven life.

Holi is time to spread the spiritual fragrance; to lead a balanced life where we treasure self-control; to cultivate harmony between our thoughts, speech & physical actions; to value simple living and high thinking; and to connect life with nature and the five elements.

Havan Yajna Agnihotra हवन यज्ञ, अग्निहोत्र It is really good to see many families performing Havan at home and on many occasions like birthdays, wedding anniversaries etc. The agnihotra (fire ceremony) Havan yajn has been a very important part of all Vedic Hindu ceremonies since the beginning of time.

Havan Yajna. is the most ancient form of Hindu prayer/ devotion/invocation.

Havan or fire ceremony is one of the most important rites laid down in the Vedic scriptures for householders and is part of the eternal Sanatan Vedic Dharm/culture.

The benefits of agnihotra are multi-dimensional.

Spiritually, it has an enlightening effect on us because selected verses from the VEDAS and other Vedic literature are recited during the course of Yajna. Other than enhancing intellectual agility, such regular recitation of so many important Vedic mantras leads to them 18 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024

being memorised. Socially, it strengthens bonds between members of a family,Samaj or community because groups of people get together to carry it out communally. Hygienically, it has the effect of medicinal cleansing of air in the vicinity.

Physically, agnihotra also has an uplifting effect on the material domains of human life it encompasses all the meanings that are conveyed by the word YAJNA Yajna is the cornerstone of the Vedic way of life. It is said to be the soul of the sixteen

sanskaars (sacraments).

Yajna is a very broad term-meaning Dev Pooja, Sangatikaran and Daan, Dev Pooja- prayer to GOD, taking care of the elderly,the learned and performance of Havan; Sangatikaran- in the company of wise people and Daan is donating to the needy.

Saam VED verse 1529 states-Aagne sthooram rayim bhar prithum gomantamashwinam.Angdhi kham vartayaa pavimmeaning When Hawan is performed properly ,it purifies

the air and the surrounding environment and provides clean rain water,sunlight and contributes to increase in wealth.

Rig VED 3/32/12-Yajo hita indra vordhano bhutYajna is the means for the soul to refine itself and seek prosperity (salvation).Yajur VED 18/11 says –Matischa mein sumatischa mein yajyen kalpantaam meaning Humans ordinary intellect can be successfully transformed into super intellect through the conduct of daily yajnas.

Shatpathbrahman 1/7/1/5 states “Yajao vei shreshthatam karma”-Yajna is the most noble of deeds. With many benefits and in this battle for achieving the goal of getting pollutionfree environment,we all should keep performing Havan day after day as fellow human beings at home and other venues without any distinction of caste, creed, colour, region or religion.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024 — 19

RAM AAYENGE, RAGHUKUL RAM AAYENGE-FIJI INDIANS URGED TO PAY HOMAGE TO THEIR ANCESTRYTHEIR GIRMITIYAS LIKE RAM DID TO HIS RAGHU

Thakur Ranjit Singh, FIJI PUNDIT The euphoria and chants of Shri Ram mandir in Ayodhya is ringing in all corners of the world…..Ram aayenge, mere Raghukul Ram ayyenge…Ram will come. Very well done.

My only lament remains while we have been able to invoke life in a lifeless stone statue through PRAN PRATHISTA, over many decades we have been unable to invoke such knowledge of Ram in the heart of many who claim to be Ram Bhakt and his devotes.

One of the traits of Ram is that he is referred to as the one from RAGHUKUL.. his pride in his ancestry

and heritage and ancestors, who among other include Maharaja Harishchandra.

But such love, respect and reverence for the heritage of Fiji Indians appear to have missed many of our people who do not seem to know much about their stolen history while claiming to be devotees of Ram and ignoring their ancestry and Purvaj.

May we be thankful to the sacrifices of our forebears. Let us remember them on 14 May, in some small way, as we mark other days in USA, Canada, New Zealand, Australia and Fiji.

Let us remember them by dedicating every 14 May as GIRMIT REMEMBRANCE DAY to commemorate, celebrate and respect them.

A Salute to Sitiveni Rabuka for declaring GIRMIT DAY a Public Holiday from 2023.

And thanks to FIJI GIRMIT FOUNDATION NZ, which has been relentlessly seeking this recognition from Fiji Governments since 2015, and succeeded with change in government in 2022.

And the Foundation played

Professor Brij Lal addressing audience at Calvary Indian Assembly of God Church during Girmit Remembrance Day on 17 May, 2014. Single-handedly, this proud son of Fiji from Tabia, Labasa, placed Fiji on the world map, and coined the term "Girmitiya" which is now recognized worldwide as referring to Indo-Fijian indentured labourers. His research cleared many misconceptions about Girmitiyas from India. a deep role in promoting and enlightening Fiji Indians about Girmit throughout New Zealand and throughout the world, and even in Fiji when Fiji Girmit Council seems to be defunct.

As we approach May and Girmit Day, some living in wealth and power as migrant Fiji Indians in developed countries question whether GIRMIT is a day for celebration

It is Finished…you are forgiven!

Jesus said “Arise and Shine…”

Key Scriptures: When he had received the drink, Jesus said, "It is finished."

With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.

Dear Reader, Our message for this month is to reflect about the power of Good Friday. Here in Australia and many other parts the world had the public holidays for Easter. Let us take a moment unpack the ultimate gift of God: Our Salvation through faith in Jesus Christ and His perfect sacrifice for all mankind.

Six words that Jesus spoke from the cross can change your life today. Think about the power of His love and grace that was expressed to save all humans. Bible teaches us that we all have sinned and fallen short of God’s moral standard to live on this planet.

The six words that Jesus spoke from the cross are: It is finished…Your are forgiven.

God has made a way for all tribes and nations to come to His holy presence. Just two things are required from us: Repentance for our sins and believe in the Words of Jesus.

Let us look at the first 3 words: It is Finished.

You may ask, “What is finished?” God’s work of redemption is finished.

"Redemption" refers to the act of being saved or rescued from past mistakes or wrongdoing, often through a sacrificial price.

God’s work of redeeming the sinful mankind by the

atoning blood of Jesus as the Lamb of God is finished. To redeem means, take back that was It is important to understanding the concept of forgiveness in Human Experience and life. In the realm of human existence, the concepts of completion and forgiveness hold profound significance.

"It is finished" and "Your sins are forgiven" are phrases imbued with theological, spiritual, and existential implications. Beyond their religious connotations, they resonate with universal themes of closure, redemption, and liberation.

This message explores the multifaceted meanings of these phrases.

• Delving into their theological origins through the Holy Bible, • Psychological implications to our mind and emotions • And broader applications in all human experiences Theological Significance: Jesus offers complete and perfect forgiveness.

"It is finished" is a phrase attributed to Jesus Christ in the Christian faith, uttered during his crucifixion. This is the cry of heaven and an invitation to the humble.

According to Christian faith, these words signify the completion of Jesus' earthly mission and the fulfilment of many divine prophecies regarding salvation of mankind. The book of Old

20 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024

testament records the coming of the Lamb of God (Jesus) to redeem the fallen humanity.

This cross represents the culmination of sacrifice, atonement, and redemption, as Jesus offers himself as a sacrificial lamb for the forgiveness of humanity's sins. Through his death and resurrection, all believers are granted forgiveness and reconciliation with God, ushering in a new covenant of grace and mercy.

Similarly, "Your sins are forgiven" echoes the message of divine forgiveness and mercy found in various religious traditions.

In Christianity, this assurance of forgiveness is central to the teachings of Jesus, who emphasised the importance of repentance, compassion, and reconciliation. The act of forgiveness is portrayed as a transformative force that liberates individuals from guilt, shame, and spiritual bondage, allowing them to experience divine love and restoration.

Psychological Implications: To mind, body and soul Beyond its theological context, the concept of forgiveness carries profound psychological significance.

Many studies in psychology have highlighted the therapeutic benefits of forgiveness for mental and emotional well-being.

Forgiveness is seen as a process of releasing resentment, bitterness, and anger towards oneself or others, leading to inner peace, healing, and reconciliation.

By letting go off our past hurts and grievances, individuals free themselves from the burden of negative emotions and open the door to personal

when it was slavery and suffering?

Nice to have such enlightenment on Girmit.

Here is my response on differentiating between "celebration" and "commemoration" of Girmit.

When we initiated Girmit Remembrance Day in Auckland over a decade ago, we were doing exactly thatcrying, lamenting and blaming

Master Shiu Charan, (left), a community leader , former Fiji Parliamentarian, and a Trustee and Executive of Fiji Girmit Foundation of NZ seen with Professor Brij Lal the British for treatment of our forebears while wallowing in wealth and comforts that such "slavery and suffering" have delivered us into.

In fact, I find such question as an oxymoron, where we talk about SLAVERY and TORTURE, yet saying that from comforts of power and richness that such adversity has delivered us into. We no longer suffer those conditions

Pic. Source:christianity.com/wiki/jesus-christ/what-was-finished

growth and reconciliation.

Unforgiveness can act as a poison, affecting various aspects of an individual's life including their emotional, physical, and interpersonal well-being. Learning to let go of past grievances and practicing forgiveness can be a powerful antidote, promoting healing, growth, and greater overall wellbeing.

Moreover, forgiveness fosters empathy, compassion, and understanding in interpersonal relationships, promoting harmony and resilience in the face of conflict and adversity. It requires courage, humility, and vulnerability to extend forgiveness and seek reconciliation, but the rewards are profound—a sense of closure, renewal, and strengthened bonds of empathy and trust.

as truth and reconciliation commissions, restorative justice, and grassroots reconciliation efforts, communities can confront the legacies of violence and oppression, acknowledge past wrongs, and chart a path towards healing and reconciliation.

Furthermore, in the realm of personal development and self-transformation, the journey towards forgiveness and completion is an ongoing process of growth and self-discovery.

It involves confronting one's own vulnerabilities, acknowledging mistakes, and embracing the imperfections of the human condition. By embracing forgiveness as a guiding principle, individuals can cultivate resilience, compassion, and a deeper sense of interconnectedness with others.

Much Broader Applications: All challenges of our life The principles of forgiveness and completion extend beyond religious and psychological realms to various aspects of human experience.

In the realm of justice and reconciliation, forgiveness plays a pivotal role in healing collective wounds, fostering reconciliation, and building peace in societies torn apart by conflict and injustice.

Through processes such

Next three words: Your are forgiven!

For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard.

Romans 3:23, This scripture highlights the need for God’s forgiveness to all mankind. If we repent for our sins and wrong doings, God offers complete and perfect forgiveness. Even to the people who crucified Him to the cross. Repentance is the key that unlocks the gate of amazing grace. Humility is the attitude that looks to

now-Girmit has liberated us.

What an irony – we have been crying, lamenting and putting blame on people who were responsible for delivering us into the prosperity from which we have been throwing stones at them and realising that suffering and torture they talk were collateral damage beyond our control.

CONTD. ON PG 30

God and prepare our heart to accept God’s forgiveness.

In conclusion, the phrases "It is finished" and "Your sins are forgiven" encapsulate profound truths about the human experience—of closure, redemption, and liberation. Whether viewed through a theological lens, a psychological perspective, or broader applications in human society, forgiveness remains a transformative force that transcends boundaries of faith, culture, and ideology. In a world marked by war, strife, and brokenness, the message of forgiveness offers hope for healing, reconciliation, and renewal—a testament to the enduring power of grace and compassion in the human journey towards wholeness.

Jesus, became the lamb of God to reconcile the broken relationship between sinful mankind and the Holy God. This the Gospel; that God loved the world and sent Jesus to redeem us. Whoever believes in Him and follow His word will find ‘Moksha’ today. You don’t have to wait thousand years. God seeks the humble and meek people who knows that their good works and wisdom is not enough earn ‘Moksha’.

Pray this simple prayer with a sincere heart: Dear God, I come to you and ask for your forgiveness.

For the Bible says that, all have sinned and fallen short of your Holy way of life. Therefore, forgive my many sins. I believe that Jesus died for my sins and rose again for my salvation (Moksha). Give me a new mind and heart to know your word and your ways. I pray this Jesus name. Amen Please email to us your encounter experience, so we can help you to grow in the understanding your Creator and Redeemer. navig8grace@ gmail.com

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024 — 21

Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was a man of versatile and exceptional talent. He was a teacher and a philosopher of international repute. He was an expert on Indian as well as western philosophies and religions.

He provided a comprehensive analysis of India’s philosophical and religious literature and made it available to western scholars.

He offered a new interpretation of Indian philosophy, which accorded with the prevailing situation in the country. He served India as a vice-chancellor of universities, ambassador to the Soviet Union and vice-president and president of independent India. He wrote numerous books on philosophy, religion and eastern and western thoughts, and translated ancient Indian scriptures.

Family and Education Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was born on 5 September 1988 at Tirutani, a temple town northwest of Chennai, Tamil Nadu, into a Telugu speaking family. His ancestors hailed from Sarvepalli village in Nellor district of Andhra Pradesh and hence they adopted Sarvepalli as their surname. He was the second son of Sarvepalli Veeraswami and Sitamma. His parents also had four other sons and a daughter. Veeraswami worked as a revenue officer in the service of a local landlord and maintained his family with his modest means.

Radhakrishnan was admitted to a primary school in Tirutani at the age of four and spent about four years there. In 1896, he moved to the Hermansburg Evangelical Lutheran Mission School in Tirupati. He had his first lessons in the Bible in the mission school. After four years in Tirupati, his parents moved him to Vellore, where a distant uncle of his used to be on the teaching staff of a local missionary college.

After two years, he passed the matriculation examination of the University of Madras and won scholarship to Vorhees College. He was asked to memorise passages from the Bible. He succeded and secured a certificate of merit for proficiency in the scriptures.

However, he was more influenced by writings of Swami Vivekannand and V D Savarkar’s The Indian War of Independence 1857, which appealed to India’s youth to evince pride and self respect.

In May 1903, Radhakrishnan was married to a distant cousin, Sivakamu aged ten. He called his wife Padma. The couple had five daughters; Padmavati, Rukmini, Sushila, Sundari and Shakuntala and a son who died soon after his birth and another son named Sarvepalli Gopal. Gopal had a notable career as a historian and a writer. He wrote biographies of Jawaharlal Nehru and his father’s.

Sivakamu died in November 1956. Radhakrishnan did not marry again.

In 1904, he passed the First Arts examination in first class with distinctions in mathematics, psychology and history, and won a scholarship to the Christian College at Chennai for the BA course. When asked to chose a subject for specialisation, he was inclined toward the physical sciences. But he selected philosophy by chance solely because a cousin who graduated from the same college passed on to him his philosophy textbooks and thus saved him considerable expenses on books.

At the end of 1906, Radhakrishnan obtained the BA degree with first class honours and was the best student of that year in philosophy. He thought of switching to the law but fincancial constraints restricted him. He enrolled for MA degree in philosophy and started providing private tuition to supplement his scholarship.

Apart from his initial village education, he had always studied at Christian establishments.

Christian teachers and students generally criticised Hinduism.

He felt deeply hurt by the treatment accorded to Hinduism in missionary institutions. He felt his pride aroused by writings and speeches of Vivekanand and other nationalist leaders. This led him to his critical study of Indian Philosophy and religion and a lifelong defence of Hinduism against uninformed western criticism.

Indian philosophy was not a part of the syllabus in any of the Indian unversities at that time for the MA course. Writing a dissertation on a philosophical topic was a requirement of the course. He chose to write his dissertation on Indian philosophy, which was a challenge as there was no support from the college on the subject. He submitted the thesis titled ‘The Ethics of the Vedanta and Its Metaphysical Presuppositions’.

The acting Principal of the College offered a testimonial stating: "He is one of the best men we have had in recent years". The thesis became a book of courage, confidence and conviction, laying down the direction of his future development.

Academic careeer - After completing his MA degree in 1909, he was appointed to the post of sub-assistant inspector of schools, but was directed to fill a temporary vacancy as a Malayalam teacher in the Presidency College at Chennai.

As he knew no Malayalam, he was expected to teach philosophy instead.

A few months after he started teaching, in 1910 he was deputed

22 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024

to the teacher’s training college at Saidapet to obtain a diploma in teaching. This was a year of severe financial hardship. To earn extra money, he continued private tuition, took on examinership as many as he could get and compiled all his lectures on psychology and published them as a book. The book demonstrated Radhakrishnan’s strength as a teacher.

Upon returning to the Presidency College in 1911, Radhakrishnan served there for the next five years, initially as additional assistant professor and then from 1914 as assistant professor of philosophy. His subjects also included European thoughts and political philosophy.

His reputation for clarity was so widespread that students from other colleges attended his lectures. At this stage, he opted to a dress style, which suited his figure and personality, and it remained his attire in India throughout his life.

In 1916, Radhakrishnan was transferred to Anantapur in western part of Andhra as a junior lecturer and after three months returned to the Presidency College as professsor of philosophy. He was well satisfied with his position and expected to hold it till his retirement.

However, due to caste politics, in 1917 he was transferred from the Presidency College to a college at Rajahmundry.

Radhakrishnan joined Maharaja College Mysore as additional professor in July 1918.

He was recruited for being strong in Indian as well as European philosophies and lectured on both subjects. He would spend hours studying the Sanskrit texts with local pandits and then switching to an analysis of the writings of contemporary thinkers.

By that time he had written many articles for reputable journals like The Quest, Journal of Philosophy and the International Journal of Ethics. He completed his first book The Philosophy of Rabindranath Tagore in 1918. His second book, The Reign of Religion in Contemporary Philosophy was

published in 1920.

In 1921 Radhakrishnan was appointed a professor in philosophy to occupy King George V Chair of Mental and Moral Science at Kolkata University.

He published his massive work Indian Philosophy in two volumes, the first in 1923 and the second in 1927. He along with Rabindranath Tagore established the Indian Philosophical Congress and held its first session in 1925 in Kolkata.

Radhakrishnan represented Kolkata University at the Congress of Universities of the British Empire in London in June 1926, and the International Congress of Philosophy at Harvard University in September 1926. He extensively delivered lectures during his trip abroad on the Hindu way of life and related topics and returned to Kolkata in November 1926. He became popular among philosophers in the western world. On his return, he continued teaching and working on executive positions at Kolkata University.

Radhakrishnan was offered a lectureship at Manchester College in comparative religion and was invited to give the Hibbert Lectures on the ideals of life at the Universities of Manchester and London. He delivered his lectures during the academic year 192930 staying in Oxford. His speeches were published as a book titled An Idealist View of Life.

He joined Andhra University as vice chancellor in May 1931 for five years tenure. The university was inaugurated in 1926 and was based in Visakhapatnam. During his tenure, many new buildings and infrastructures were built for the university. A number of new subjects were introduced. He tried to model students’ supervision on the model he observed at Oxford university. He gave special attention to libraries, quality of education and employment opportunities for its graduates.

In 1934, he bought a plot of land in Mylapore, Chennai and built a house on it with intent to move there following the end of his term as vice-chancellor.

After expiry of his term, he tried to secure a position in Chennai, which did not materialise.

However, he was offered a chair at Oxford University and became a Spalding professor of Eastern Religions and Ethics. He was also elected a Fellow of All Souls College. In the summer of 1936, he shifted his base to Britain, where he remained for next three years until the break of war in Europe. According to the terms of his contract, he was obliged to spend only two terms each year at Oxford and during the other six months he worked as a professor at Kolkata. He was elected a Fellow of the British Academy in 1938.

Radhakrishnan had been associated with the Banaras Hindu University as an honorary professor of philosophy. In late 1939, on the insistence of Madan Mohan Malaviya, founder of the university, Radhakrishnan accepted the vice-chancellorship of Banaras Hindu University.

Initially, he worked at BHU as well as continued his professorship at Kolkata but from the summer of 1941, he became full time vice chancellor at BHU. During his term, he secured substantial donations from prospective donors including the Nizam of Hyderabad. He admitted a girl to

study the Veds. He served there until mid-January 1948.

Politics Radhakrishnan joined politics after his successful academic career. He had become an international authority on Indian philosophy and culture.

He was a member of the International Committee for Intellectual Cooperation from 1931 to 1938. In Western eyes, he was a recognised Hindu authority on Indian ideas and a persuasive interpreter of the role of Eastern institutions in contemporary society. He represented India at UNESCO from 1946 to 1952. He was also elected to the Constituent Assembly of India that drafted the Indian constitution.

Following independence, India worked to develop good relations with the Soviet Union. The first ambassador of India to Moscow, Vijayalakshmi Pandit, on her own admission, gave up even attempting to promote Indo-Soviet relations. The Indian government appointed Radhakrishnan as her replacement. He remained at this post from 1949 to 1952. He developed a good rapport with the Soviet leadership and was able to establish friendly relationship between the two countries. The work done by him became the basis of an ongoing cooperation between the two countries.

During his assignment in Moscow, he continued his part time work at Oxford University.

Oxford bade him farewell by bestowing on him its two highest honours, an honorary doctorate of civil laws and an honorary fellowship of All Souls.

Radhakrishnan was elected the first Vice President of India in 1952 and continued on the post for two terms until 1962. During his tenure as vice president, he travelled extensively making speeches on culture and religion and promoted the idea of peace and friendship among nations. He was awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1954. He was elected an honorary professor at Moscow University, which he claimed to have given him far more pleasure than any other decoration.

In 1962, he was elected President of the Republic of India and remained on the post for a full five-year term. He saw three prime ministers during his presidentship including Jawaharlal Nehru, Lal Bahadur Shastri and Indira Gandhi. The British Academy elected him an Honorary Fellow and the Government of India declared his birthday, 5 September as Teacher’s Day. After retirement from the presidentship, Radhakrishnan returned to Chennai in May 1967 and started living in the house he had built in Mylapore. The next year he suffered a stroke that left him with slurred speech. In September 1973, he slipped and broke his hip and thereafter was bedridden. Finally in early hours of 17 April 1975, Radhakrishnan passed away.

Radhakrishnan wrote numerous books and translated with explanatory notes the Bhagavad Gita, the Dhammapad, the Upanishads and the Brahma Sutra. His book Indian Philosophy in two volumes presents ancient Indian philosophies with a modern interpretation.

He believed in divine providence, which he justified by his own experiences in life.

—Awadhesh Sharma www.hinduguru.com.au

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024 — 23

Asharam Bapu remains an influential spiritual guru, despite facing legal issues in supposedly fake cases

The content of this article is based on the life of H.H. Sant Shri Asharamji Bapu. Swami Vivekananda addressed the Parliament of the World’s Religions in Chicago in September 1893. A hundred years after him, Pujya Bapu Ji addressed the same Parliament in September 1993 and the whole parliament reverberated with the chanting of Hari Om. Both of these worldrenowned spiritual leaders addressed the audience for much longer period than the given time and the audience were absorbed in listening to them.

To save the youth who are being ruined due to the lustful festivals like valentine’s day, in 2007 Pujya Bapu ji-initiated celebrations of MatriPitri Pujan Diwas (Parents worship day) on 14th February. Pujya Bapu ji felt that, due to the blind imitation of Western culture there has been a steep rise in the incidences of alcoholism, suicide, and other immoral activities, especially among the youth during the last week of December. To rescue the youth from this debauchery and denigration, Pujya Bapu ji came up with the idea of worshipping a sacred Tulsi plant (holy basil). So, with a view to awaken the cultural pride of the India and to save the countrymen from mental slavery, in 2014, he initiated celebration of Tulsi pujan on 25th December. Pujya Bapu Ji has always emphasized the necessity to follow rich Indian culture and always said that it is only the Indian culture and Sanatana dharma which can give the world happiness & peace.

Dear readers, India is a tapestry woven from many religious threads, where a rich variety of faiths coexist.

The enduring influence of gurus and spiritual leaders on society, has been a longstanding phenomenon in Indian history.

The spiritual landscape of India is vast and vibrant, with a multitude of gurus and spiritual leaders providing wisdom to individuals from all walks of life.

Sadguru, for instance, has

gained popularity among the educated and affluent segments of society, albeit facing challenges of regional and linguistic barriers. However, amidst these revered gurus, the case of Asharamji Bapu stands out, as he currently serves imprisonment while maintaining his innocence in a case deemed false by him. In this edition we are talking about the charismatic influence of Sant Asharamji Bapu.

Saint Shri Asaram Bapuji is in Jodhpur jail for the last 10 years and is challenging the decision of the sessions court in the presumed fake rape case in the High Court. Despite his incarceration, Asharamji Bapu's social work and spiritual teachings continue to resonate deeply with a large segment of society, demonstrating his enduring connection with the masses.

The increase in philanthropic activities managed by Shri Yoga Vedanta Sewa Samiti, an organisation founded by Asharamji Bapu, is very impressive and has continued to thrive. The network of his 400 plus ashrams, 1600 samitis,17000 plus Bal Sanskar Kendra and 40 plus Gurukuls continue to operate at full capacity maintaining robust plans to provide benefit to a wider section of society.

Bapu has set a very strong mission for the welfare of humanity and all the followers are working dedicatedly. The complete network of ashram is at forefront in doing social welfare activities. Despite all the things going around, many new ashrams are built and news samitis are coming up to expand and strengthen the ashram’s social network.

It's noteworthy that Asaramji Bapu's influence and activities initiated by him transcend boundaries of cast, religion, and belief.

The complete humankind finds solace in his teachings. His teachings offer a sense of calm, understanding, or guidance that many people find helpful in navigating life's challenges.

The starting of festivals like Parents’ Worship Day is a boon for the whole

24 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024

humanity. Bapu perceived that in the absence of proper awareness, the modern youth is being misled by the false hope of enjoyment. Ignoring the passion and importance of parents, the kids are behaving parents in a very unacceptable manner.

Under the guise of enjoyment and modernization, the youth are being exposed to obscenity and cultural degradation. This resulted in leading them to ignore and forget their cultural values and blindly adopting western culture. Contrary to promote the happiness and cultural prosperity, festivals like Valentine’s Day are contributing to many social and cultural challenges. This festival promotes lustful ambience resulting in increase in teenage pregnancies, depression, suicides, and cultural degradation.

Compassion and family bonding are vanishing and being replaced by hatred and fake attitudes. The gap between the parents and kids is widening resulting in sending more and more parents to the old-age homes. Bapu’s aim was clear to protect the youth by instilling cultural values, strengthening parent-child relationship. His main goal is the welfare of society, irrespective of caste, creed, religion, or sect. Initiated in 2007, the celebration of Parents-Worship Day has now become a global trend leading to mass celebrations in schools, colleges, temples, halls and in parks. Many states

in India have declared to celebrate Parents’’ Worship Day on 14th February.

The popularity of Bapu can be seen dominating on social media platforms.

The fact is evident from the coverage of Bapu’s social welfare activities by many you tube channels, social activists, and social media influencers. The hashtag #AsharamjiBapuQuotes can be seen regularly trending.

Many news channels lately have been seen featuring Bapu’s public welfare activities.

Bapu was featured in national news for his dominance on the hearts of public. Zee 24 broadcast in its news bulletin how people are worshipping Bapu’s photos on the stages in large gatherings.

Many religious and social organisations are coming forward to garner support for Asharamji Bapu. More and more religious gurus are telling people about the propaganda launched by the many media houses against Bapu. Sant Kaushik ji Maharaj recently dedicated his birthday celebrations on 26th March 2024 to Asharamji Bapu. He convened a summit of many other esteemed spiritual gurus and has brought together a host of spiritual minds to address and work on the task of release of Bapu who has been framed in false charges.

The congregation was attended by nearly 10, 000 people and emphasizing the urgent need of Bapu’s release, Maharaj ji said that a task force needs

to be formed urgently to start working on this project. Talking about the sufferings of great men like Mahavira Swami, Swami Dayanandaji, Swami Vivekanandaji and the likes, Kaushik ji Maharaj said, “look at the suffering of these great men, how much sufferings they have gone through? Could we be misled by someone? Bapu ji was and will remain a great man.”

Concluding his speech, he said all the humanity will be indebted to Bapuji for the things he has done.

Bapu has perfectly presented the truth of the ancient scriptures relevant to modern society. He has reformed the lives of countless children, youths and poor tribals. Not only this, but even drunkards are also reformed. The lives of millions of people have been transformed by virtue of his satsang. Bapu’s love and concern for society is so deep that he brings joy to all while bearing afflictions himself for the last 5 decades. General public is getting connected to Bapu’s social welfare activities. Many people who were never initiated by him, visit ashrams to take benefit of satsang (spiritual discourse), bhajan, kirtan etc and express their hearty desire to take mantra initiation from Bapu.

Even as things change rapidly in India these days, the way politics and religion mix are still a big part of what makes Indian society progressing. The connection between how

the country is run and the spiritual beliefs has always been important, and that's still true today.

In Indian history, the impact of spiritual gurus on social structures and shaping communities, has been a persistent force for millennia. People have been looking to spiritual leaders for guidance for ages.

To achieve true and all-round progress, the government must recognize the importance of social cohesion, echoing the spirit of 'sabka saath, sabka vikas' which emphasizes inclusive care and development for all.

Recently in March 2024, thousands of followers of Asharamji Bapu held silent protests in all parts of India demanding the release and very fundamental right of medical treatment. Such mass silent protests and sudden surge in popularity and implementation of social welfare programs initiated by Bapu, are strong testaments to the unwavering trust and faith of not only Bapu’s followers but the common public as well. It is worth noting that with a large following of nearly 50 million devotees, Bapu’s influence over the masses cannot be underestimated, potentially impacting the outcomes of upcoming elections in India. Building trust and fostering collaboration requires acknowledging the voices and beliefs of the people. Dismissing their sentiments can lead to resistance when choices are presented to these people.

To listen Vedic/ knowledge stories or to listen 24X7 live divine Satsang, please search “Mangalmay live” on google, visit http://www. ashram.org/live or search “THE SBM STUDIO” on you tube. By the Divine Inspiration of Bapu Ji, the weekly sessions of Bal Sanskar and yoga are held in Brisbane and in Sydney.

These sessions are aimed for the character, mental, intellectual and spiritual development of the kids.

Please read more about our Vedic culture in the next issue of “The Brisbane Indian Times.”

For more info about Bal Sanskar and yoga sessions, to get a free copy of monthly spiritual magazine RishiPrasad in your mailbox in Australia or to get free online subscription of Rishi -Prasad, please contact by email at bskamd@gmail. com or by WhatsApp/ phone to Shri Yoga Vedanta Sewa Samiti Au & NZ Inc. at +61 426 834 434 & +61 405 277 802

CHINMAYA MISSION BRISBANE PRESENTS

ALL WE NEE I S E V D LO RDAY 20TH APRI L 2024

SATU

4.30PM to 7.00PM

Performances by Chinmaya Mission Brisbane Class Groups Awards Presentation and Talk by Swami Shrikarananda At Holland Park State High School, Bapaume Road, Holland Park West, QLD 4121

To buy your ticket, pre-order food and for more info: Scan QR Code or contact us on Priya 0413 490 308, Aarti 0434 617 615, Anu 0401 621 977

Ticket Price: $10 (per adult & per child above 12 years), $5 (per child 4-12 years), Free (child under 4 years) To purchase ticket & Pre-order Food scan QR Code

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024 — 25

THE EXALTED MONTH OF RAMADAN IN ISLAM

By Ml. M .Nawaaz Ashrafi Ramadan is the ninth and most precious month in Muslims lunar calendar. It is obligatory for Muslims to fast during this holy month.

There are around 1.7 billion Muslims around the world who observe this ritual, which is the fourth pillar of Islam among five. Fasting is not just abstaining from drinking and eating; it also includes abstaining from immoral acts and anger.

Other acts of worship such as prayer, reading the Quran and charity are also encouraged during the month of Ramadan. In the Quran, God talks about the importance of Ramadan in the following verse: “O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that you may learn piety and righteousness” (Quran, 2:183) During Ramadan, Muslims wake up early to eat a pre-dawn meal called suhoor, and they break their fast with a meal referred to as iftar. One important thing of this Holy month is Quran was revealed in Ramadan.

It is traditional for Muslims to read the entire Quran in the month of Ramadan.

“Ramadan is the (month) in which the Quran was sent down, as a guide to mankind, also Clear (Signs) for guidance and the differentiation (between right and wrong)” (Quran, 2:185). Muslims gather every night in mosques after they have broken their fasts, to pray the special prayer known as taraweeh.

Muslims are used to fasting during the day with performing their usual tasks. Different cultures have different traditions during Ramadan, whether it is a special food they cook, or eating iftar with the extended family, neighbourhood and friends.

Although may be slightly influenced by one’s culture, sharing food and inviting guests over for iftar are all practices inspired by the Islamic faith.

When the month of Ramadan starts, Muslims believe that the gates of heaven are opened and the gates of hell are closed as Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said in one of his hadiths: “When the month of Ramadan starts, the gates of the heaven are opened and the gates of Hell are closed and the devils are chained” (Bukhari). When someone fasts in the month of Ramadan with sincere faith, Muslims believe that he or she will be forgiven by Allah Almighty as Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said in hadith: “Whoever fasts during Ramadan out of sincere faith and hoping to attain Allah’s rewards, and then all his past sins will be forgiven.” (Bukhari)

There are some other significances of this Holy month such as The Night of Decree (Laylat al- Qadr).

This night is known to be better than a thousand months and Muslims are encouraged to pray and give more on this holy night. It is also recommended to give Zakat in the month of Ramadan.

Ramadan allows worshippers to concentrate their minds on devotion to their faith through prayers, expressing gratitude, seeking forgiveness and helping the needy. Fasting is important for Muslims due to many reasons: it brings the unity among the “ummah” because they go to offer Tarawih prayer after iftar at the Mosque together. Ramadan allows Muslims to appreciate food, thank God for what they have and makes them closer to each other and the people around them. Sawm is a Jihadic struggle because of Muslims struggle against hunger during fasting.

Fasting in Ramadan also makes Muslims stronger against fighting sin and more charitable to others.

The s The Inner Secrets of Fasting Know that in the fast is a special quality that is not found in anything else. And that is its close connection to Allāh, such that He says: “The fast (Sawm) is for Me and I will reward it.”1This connection is enough to show the high status of fasting. Similarly, the Kaʿbah is highly dignified due to its close connection to Him, as occurs in His statement, “And sanctify My House”.

Indeed, the fast is only virtuous due to two significant concepts. Firstly, it is a secret and hidden action thus, no one from the creation is able to see it. Therefore showing off cannot enter into it.

Secondly, it is a means of subjugating the enemies of Allāh. This is because the road that the enemies (of Allah) embark upon (in order to misguide the Son of Ādam) is that of desires.

And eating and drinking strengthens the desires.

There are many reports that indicate the merits of fasting, and they are all well known.

The recommended acts of fasting The pre-dawn meal (Suḥur) and delaying in taking it are preferable, as well as hastening to break the fast and doing so with dates. Generosity in giving is also recommended during Ramaḍān, as well as doing good deeds and increasing in charity. This is in accordance with the way of the Messenger of Allāh (sall Allāhu ʿalayhi wa

26 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024

sallam).

It is also recommended to study the Qur’ān and perform I’tikāf during Ramaḍān, especially in the last ten days, as well as increasing upon the exertion (towards doing good deeds) in it.

In the two Sahihs, ʿĀ’ishah RA said, “When the (last) ten days (of Ramaḍhaan) would come, the Prophet would tighten his waistwrapper, spend the night in worship, and wake his family up (for prayer).” The scholars have mentioned two views concerning the meaning of “tighten his waist-wrapper”: The first: It means the turning away from women.

The second: It is an expression denoting his eagerness and diligence in doing good deeds. They also say that the reason for his (peace be upon him) exertion in the last ten days of Ramaḍāan was due to his (Sall Allāhu ʿalayhi wa sallam) seeking of the Night of Power (Laylah al-Qadr).

An explanation of the inner secrets of fasting and its characteristics There are three levels of fasting: The general fast, the specific fast, and the further specific fast. As for the general fast, then it is the refraining of the stomach and the private parts from fulfilling their desires. The specific fast is the refraining of one’s gaze, tongue, hands, feet, hearing and eyes, as well as the rest of his body parts from committing sinful acts. As for the more specific fast, then it is the heart’s abstention from its yearning after the worldly affairs and the thoughts which distance one away from Allāh, as well as its (the heart’s) abstention from all the things that Allāh has placed on the same level.

From the characteristics of the specific fast is that one lowers his gaze and safeguards his tongue from the repulsive speech that is forbidden, disliked, or which has no benefit, as well as controlling the rest of his body parts.

In a Hadith reported by alBukhārī: “Whosoever does not abandon false speech and the acting upon it, Allāh is not in need of him leaving off his food and drink.”3 Another characteristic of the specific fast is that one does not overfill himself with food during the night.

Instead, he eats in due measure, for indeed, the son of Ādam does not fill a vessel more evil than his stomach. If he were to eat his fill during the first part of the night, he would not make good use of himself for the remainder of the night. In the same way, if he

eats to his fill for suhur, he does not make good use of himself until the afternoon.

This is because excessive eating breeds laziness and lethargy. Therefore, the objective of fasting disappears due to one’s excessiveness in eating, for what is intended by the fast is that one savours the taste of hunger and becomes one who abandons desires.

Recommended Fasts As for the recommended fasts, then know that preference for fasting is established in certain virtuous days. Some of these virtuous days occur every year, such as fasting the first six days of the month of Shawwāl after Ramaḍān, fasting the day of ʿArafah, the day of ʿAshura, and the ten days of DhulHijjah and Muharram. Some of them occur every month, such as the first part of the month, the middle part of it, and the last part of it. So whoever fasts the first part of the month, the middle part of it, and the last part of it, then he has done well.

Some fasts occur every week, and they are every Monday and Thursday.

The most virtuous of the recommended fasts is the fast of Dāwūd (ʿalayhi alSalām). He would fast one day and break his fast the next day. This achieves the following three objectives: The soul is given its share on the day the fast is broken.

And on the day of fasting, it completes its worship in full. The day of eating is the day of giving thanks and the day of fasting is the day of having patience. And Faith is divided into two halves – that of thankfulness and that of patience. It is the most difficult struggle for the soul. This is because every time the soul gets accustomed to a certain condition, it transfers itself to that.

As for fasting every day, then it has been reported

by Muslim, from the ḥadith of Abu Qatadah, that ʿUmar (raḍiy Allāhuʿanhu) asked the Prophet (sall Allāhu ʿalayhi wa sallam): ‘What is the case if one were to fast every day?’ So he (sall Allāhu ʿalayhi wa sallam) said: “He did not fast nor did he break his fast – or – he did not fast and he did not break his fast.”4 This is concerning the one who fasts continuously, even during the days in which fasting is forbidden.

Characteristics of the most specific fast Know that the one who has been given intellect, knows the objective behind fasting. Therefore, he burdens himself to the extent that he will not be

unable to do that which is more beneficial than it. Ibn Masʿūd would fast very little and it is reported that he used to say: “When I fast, I grow weak in my prayer.

And I prefer the prayer over the (optional) fast. Some of them (the Saḥabah) would weaken in their recitation of the Qur’ān whilst fasting. Thus, they would exceed in breaking their fast (i.e. by observing less optional fasts), until they were able to balance their recitation. Every individual is knowledgeable of his condition and of what will rectify it.

The Night of Glory (laylatul qadr).

It is a brilliant night that is described in the Qur’an in the following way: In the name of God, the Lord of Mercy, the Giver of Mercy We sent [the Qur’an] down on the Night of Glory.

What will explain to you what that Night of Glory is?

The Night of Glory is better than a thousand months.

On that night the angels and the Spirit descend again and again with their Lord’s permission on every affair.

Peace it is until the rising of the dawn.

(Chapter 97) The Night of Glory is the night in which the Prophet Muhammad began receiving revelation from God through the archangel Gabriel while he was meditating in the Cave of Hira on top of the Mountain of Light near the outskirts of Mecca, according to Muslim belief. It is that night in history when Muhammad went from being a simple man among his people to becoming the messenger of God. Not only did that night transform Muhammad the man into Muhammad the Prophet, but it also marked the beginning of the transformation of many parts of the world – beginning with the Arabian Peninsula and stretching as far as China within less than a century – as the new civilization of faith spread from coast to coast and continent to continent.

The first words that the Prophet received from God on that night, now some 1,448 years ago, are words that continue to inspire and guide more than 1.6 billion people worldwide. Chapter 96 of the Qur’an contains these verses: “Read! In the name of your Lord who created: He created the human being from a clinging form. Read! Your Lord is the Most Bountiful One who taught by the pen, who taught the human being what he did not know” (96:1—5).

Receiving these divine words shook the Prophet to his core as he experienced the unexpected power of the glorious night and the command of an outer force. Afraid and befuddled, the Prophet ran home to the warm embrace of his beloved wife, Khadijah, who covered his trembling body with a blanket and reassured his anxious soul. Khadija suggested visiting her cousin, Waraqa ibn Nawfal, who was a Christian sage and scholar, to interpret the experience.

Waraqa listened carefully to the Prophet’s experience and declared: “This was the same one [archangel Gabriel] who keeps the secrets, whom God had sent to Moses. I wish I were young and could live [to see the day] when your people will drive you out.” The Prophet, startled and surprised, asked, “Will they [really] drive me out?” Waraqa nodded affirmatively and said, “Anyone who came with something similar to what you have brought was treated with hostility; and if I should remain alive till the day when you will be driven out then I will support you.”

So, the Night of Glory commemorates the advent of the Prophet, the beginning of the revelation of the Qur’an to Muhammad, and the centrality of God and knowledge in Islam. But, as Chapter 97 of the Qur’an indicates, the Night of Glory continues to visit every year with great spiritual gifts. In this night, it is believed, the doors of forgiveness are opened to all who ask, the decree of God is reconsidered and determined for every human soul, and salvation is brought closer for anyone who seeks it. As such, it is a night full of praying, seeking and acting goodly.

One of the great mysteries is that no one knows for certain which night in the blessed nights of Ramadan the Night of Glory falls on. It is anticipated during the last 10 nights.

And, some say that it falls on one of the odd nights of the last 10 nights. God knows best – our task is to seek it; God’s grace is to grant it!

As the Prophet ‫ ﷺ‬said, "Let whosoever believes in Allah and in the Last Day either speak good or be silent." The agitation of our external tongue is intertwined with the internal agitation of our lower self. Bringing about quietude to our speech and environment goes a long way in calming our souls, while also promoting the atmosphere of fikr (contemplation) necessary to purify our hearts.

CONTD. ON PG 27

CONTD. FROM PG 26 Minimize the idle talk and chatting as much as possible and give the phone and social media a break, not just during the nights but during the workday. In those opportune moments where you find yourself alone at your desk or at home when the children are asleep (finally), contemplate deeply on the Creator and engage in spiritual reflection.

Remind yourself of your shortcomings and of Allah's mercy and plead for Him to rectify your condition, with the supplication our Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him and his family) encouraged us to say in these last ten nights: "O Allah, You are alAfuww (The Eraser of Sins and Pardoner) and you love to pardon, so pardon me."

The beauty of this supplication is that we invoke the Divine characteristic of AlAfuww, which is greater than forgiveness, for it completely obliterates and erases the sin off our permanent records, whereas in His Forgiveness, Allah conceals those sins on our record.

We ask Allah for both, and as we do so, let us also strive in these last ten nights to be forgiving with others. All too often, as we engage in our deeply personal worship in these ten nights, repenting to

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Allah and seeking His forgiveness, we forget that one of the essentials of repentance is that we resolve any violations we have committed towards others. Ramadan is a time where we see more of the Muslims than at other times of the year, at communal iftaars, taraweeh and other activities. We will see those who we have wronged or those who have wronged us. Just as the process of fasting, taraweeh and 'itikaf naturally facilitate the disciplining of the soul in Ramadan, the social light of this month, bringing the Muslims together, gives each of us an opportunity to heal past rifts and move forward. The last ten nights are a chance to bury old grudges and forgive one another, so that we can together invoke Allah on the Night of Power to forgive all of us for our violations towards Him. The best example for us in these nights is our Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him and family), who, on the 20th of Ramadan, when entering Makkah in victory, forgave all those who had harmed him and his followers. It was an act that was the epitome of the Prophet's grace.

May Allah grant eternal success to the ummah of Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him and his family) and may we learn to emulate the Prophet's grace, both in

Ramadan, and outside of it.

"O Allah, You are the Eraser of Sins, and you love to pardon, so pardon all of us."

Things You Might Not Know About Eid Al-Fitr 1.

IT'S HELD TO CELEBRATE THE END OF FASTING. During the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from sun up to sundown to honor the month that the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Mohammed. Eid al-Fitr celebrates the end of the month—and the end of the fasting. The prolonged fasting isn't just about food—it also includes abstaining from taking medications, drinking any liquids (including water), smoking, and having intimacy.

2. THE NAME OF THE HOLIDAY IS A LITERAL TRANSLATION. "Eid al-Fitr" is a pretty literal translation of the event that's being celebrated: "Festival of the Breaking of the Fast," or "the Feast of FastBreaking."

3. EID AL-FITR BEGINS WHEN THE NEW MOON IS FIRST SIGHTED. Eid al-Fitr doesn't begin until the new moon appears in the sky (although traditionally, and still today for many Muslims, it doesn't begin until the barest sliver of a waxing

crescent moon is seen).

Technically, that means that across the world, Eid al-Fitr starts at different times and even different days, depending on location.

To make it more uniform, some Muslims celebrate Eid when the new moon appears over Mecca instead of their own locations.

4. RAMADAN AND EID AL-FITR ARE HELD ON DIFFERENT GREGORIAN DATES EVERY YEAR. The Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles, as opposed to the Gregorian calendar, which is based on the solar cycle. New months start and end with each new moon. The average new moon appears every 29.53 days, so the lunar months are a bit shorter compared to the Gregorian months, which usually last 30 or 31 days. Thus, every year, Ramadan is held about 10 days earlier than it was the previous year— at least, that is, in relation to the Gregorian calendar.

5. EID AL-FITR TYPICALLY LASTS FOR THREE DAYS. The festival traditionally lasts for three days, but depending on how it falls on the calendar, the parties and festivities could last much longer. For example, if the three days fall midweek, Muslims will likely still be celebrating over the weekend.

6. ON EID MORNING, MUSLIMS CLEANSE THEIR

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BODIES AND DON NEW CLOTHES. Before leaving to perform morning prayers, Muslims wake up to cleanse their bodies in a ritual called "ghusl." Then, similar to getting new clothes for Easter Sunday, Muslims often don something new or grab their finest threads and decorate their hands with elaborate henna patterns.

Some people wear traditional dress, while others opt for contemporary clothing.

7. THERE ARE EID GREETINGS. "Eid Mubarak," which means "Have a blessed Eid!," is pretty common.

8. THEN THERE ARE PRAYERS. After getting dressed and ready for the day, Muslims gather for prayers in mosques or outdoor locations. Afterward, they may visit the graves of loved ones to pray and clean the gravesites.

9. THERE ARE GIFTS INVOLVED. After a month of sacrifice, Eid al-Fitr is a time of abundance—and not just abundant food. Gifts are often given, especially to children. These gifts of money, accessories, home goods, or flower are called "Eidi."

10. IT'S ALSO KNOWN AS "THE LESSER EID." Eid al-Fitr is one of two

important Eid celebrations in the Muslim faith. The other is Eid al-Adha, the Feast of the Sacrifice or "Greater Eid." Eid al-Adha celebrates the sacrifice Ibrahim (Abraham) was willing to make to Allah.

Like Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha is held at a different time on the Gregorian calendar every year.

TAKBIR OF EID-ULFITR ALLAAHU AKBAR ALLAAHU AKBAR ALLAAHU AKBAR LAA ILAAHA ILLALLAAHU WALLAAHU AKBAR ALLAAHU AKBAR WALILLAAHILHAMD ALLAAHU AKBAR KABEERAA WALHAMDULILLAAHI KATHEERAA WA SUBHAANALLAAHI BUKRATOW- WA ASEELAA LAA ILAAHA ILLALLAAHU WA LAA NA’BUD ILLAA IYAAHU MUKHLISEENA LAHUDDEENA WA LOW KARIHAL KAAFIROON LAA ILAAHA ILLALLAAHU SADAQA WA’DAHU WA NASARA ABDA, WA AZZA JUNDAHU ADHAABA WAHDA LAA ILAAHA ILLALLAAHU WALLAAHU AKBAR ALLAAHU AKBAR WALILLAAHILHAMD ON BEHALF OF THE ISLAMIC SOCIETY OF ALGESTER, WE WISH ALL MUSLIMS A WONDERFUL RAMADHAAN AND HAPPY EID UL FITR.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024 — 27

Who, What, Where, When...

Indian Business community at the welcome lunch for HE Shri Gopal Baglay, High Commissioner of India in Australia at Brook Water Golf Club

Ankit Taneja, National Manager – Mahindra Australia, with His Excellency Shree Gopal Baglay

HE Shri Gopal Bagley, High Commissioner of India in Australia, makes his first official address to the Indian Community in Queensland at a lunch function hosted

by AIBC and sponsored by Springfield Land Corporation and Mahindra Group

A full house at the business lunch in honour of His Excellency Shree Gopal Baglay Indian High commissioner

From left Ms Sweety Agarwal, the Counsellor, Mr Suneet Mehta Deputy High Commissioner, Mrs Archana Singh honorary counsel for India in Queensland and HE Shree Gopal Baglay at a community reception organised by FICQ

FICQ Advisers and EC members honour HE Shree Gopal Baglay at the community reception at the Rd Cross building.

Learned and respected Pundit Hirdesh Maharaj ji recites Shrimad Bhagwat Katha at Naresh and Sashi Nath's residence, Redcliffe

Nath family, at the Bhagwat Katha at their Redcliffe Residence

Delightful classical dance at the SKED fundraiser dinner held at Runcorn State School

Close to capacity crowd at the SKED fund raiser dinner function

28 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024

Who, What, Where, When...

Pre-dinner drinks after the successful AGM of OAAQ at Kedron Wavell

Councillor Angela Owen at the Bharatiya Samaj wellness seminar

Usha Chandra, Umesh Chandra OAM and Prasad Yarlagadda OAM at the OAAQ Gala Dinner

Community support for Bharatiya Samaj wellness seminar held at Queensland Vedic Centre

Holika Dahan at Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir by Dharam Guru Acharya PT Ram Harsh Tripathi Jee. A large number of devotees came to celebrate this auspicious occasion.

Deo Family congratulates the newly appointed Mayor of Logan – Cr Jon Raven

Shiv Ratri Celebration at Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir by Dharam Guru Acharya PT Ram Harsh Tripathi Jee. Twelve families participated in the 12 Jyotirlinga Abhishek and Puja at 9:00 p.m.

Many devotees came and performed Puja throughout the day and night.

The Maha Shiv Ratri celebration by the Queensland Nepalese Cultural Centre is held in 7th Brigade Park, Chermside Call: (07) 3192 5188

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024 — 29

Spiritual Practice and the Cosmic Science (Sádhaná and Madhuvidyá) - a discourse

By Shrii Shrii Anandamurti The object of the ordinary mind, be it external or internal, is the outcome of the five fundamental factors. In order to maintain its separate existence, the mind has to stick to some object. Here an object means a place. Just as a living being in order to maintain its physical existence has to inhabit some physical space, similarly the mind to maintain its subtle existence has to attach itself to some object of requisite subtlety.

Time and space are indispensable for maintaining individuality. It is for this reason that the individual mind is forever in search of one object or another. The mind turns away from those objects which cannot properly affect the materialization of saḿskáras or from those objects which are used up and exhausted, and it moves towards a new object. This upheaval of the mind is neverending. The more intense the desire for the materialization of its saḿskáras, the more swiftly the mind wanders from one object to another. This is called unsteadiness of the mind.

A question may arise, what will happen to the mind if it is completely weaned from objects? If this occurs, then the mind will be dissolved – it will be obliterated. To strive for self-protection is natural, and for this reason the mind constantly runs after the

retreat of its objects.

It has already been said that the object of the ordinary mind is always collected from the world of the five fundamental factors. What is the form of this paiṋcabhaotika world and of what property is its subjective mind made?

From the philosophical point of view, there is an eternal infinite consciousness all around. So long as this entity of consciousness remains in its original state, there is no question of a subject or an object, nor of knowledge and the knower.

However, when a part of it comes under the sway of Prakrti, then the knowledge of existence or the “I” feeling is present. This very “I” feeling appears at the same time as the object of Puruśa or Cosmic Consciousness. This pervading effect of the feeling is called mind. There are three grades of the “I” feeling – Mahattattva (I am), Ahaḿtattva (I do, or I am the master) and citta (the resultant “I”). This mind constitutes the initial degeneration of Puruśa and forms its object.

It has been said that the manifested world is the object of this mind.

Consequently, Puruśa does not get any enjoyment from this páiṋcabhaotika universe at all. It is only the mind which enjoys, while Puruśa is simply a witnessing entity to the workings of the experiencing

mind.

The objects of gratification of the two higher states of mind, namely mahattattva and ahaḿtattva, are sustained, formed and manifested in its stratum of Citta. If a person derives pleasure from eating palatable food, what is the subject of this gratification?

It is the two strata of the mind, the mahattattva and the ahaḿtattva. Now what is the object of gratification?

Superficially it appears that it is the food which is the object of gratification. Even when the food has been eaten, the mind will not experience pleasure until the feeling of palatability in the form of the vibratory waves of touch and taste is taken up by the corresponding sense-organs and conveyed to citta. A person working in an indifferent mood does not derive the due pleasure in doing interesting work or even taking food. The reason is that citta is partially otherwise engaged and cannot give relevant form to the vibratory waves of the object of gratification.

From this we arrive at the conclusion that mind never enjoys the original object; it enjoys only the reflected shadows of the original object. Catching the shadows of the physical world, people mistakenly believe that they have realized their goal. If the mind really desires to enjoy something, it should adopt

the opposite course. The mind will have to be extricated from the quinquelemental world which has been created as the crudest manifestation of the cosmic mind-stuff and adopt the universal Puruśa – the original constituent of the cosmic mind-stuff. The object of Puruśa is the mind, and if Puruśa becomes the subject of the mind, then, as a result of their proximity developing into union, the subjective feeling of each will disappear.

This union is called “yoga”. In other words, it is the union of the unit “I”, centered in the mind, with the universal Puruśa.

Saḿyogo yoga ityukto jiivátmá Paramátmanah.

If a person desires to merge in the Puruśa retaining his/ her “I” feeling, then he/she will not be completely free from objects. In that state, the universal mind of the universal Puruśa becomes the object. We call this state, “savikalpa samádhi”. Where there is no anxiety about the “I” and no desire to preserve the separate identity of the “I”, then a state of complete freedom from objects or thoughts is achieved. This state is called “salvation” or “nirvikalpa samádhi”.

Sarvacintá parityágo niscinto yoga ucyate.

Puruśa is the only knowing entity. Puruśa alone is knowledge personified or knowledge itself. Just as

the sun is light itself – on a cursory view it does not seem to shine from borrowed light.

The motion towards absolute knowledge is called the process of knowledge, and the motion diametrically opposed to this is towards the shadows of the fundamental factors created by the thought-waves of the Cosmic Mind.

It can be more lucidly explained in this manner.

Omniscient Brahma alone is truth absolute and this páiṋcabhaotika universe is the result of the domination of Prakrti over Brahma. If we were able to enjoy this páiṋcabhaotika world, we would claim to enjoy the shadow or imagination of the waves of the cosmic mind. In reality, however, none of us can enjoy this páiṋcabhaotika world. We enjoy that relative shape which our sense organs convey to that mind stuff, after receiving the reflections of tanmátras. That is, we experience only the reflections of shadows.

Átmajiṋánaḿ vidurjiṋánaḿ jiṋánányanyáni yánitu; Táni jiṋánávabhásáni sárasyanaeva bodhanát.

Can we realize the real Puruśa merely by seeing the reflection of a shadow?

No, certainly not. From the shadow of a tree we cannot say whether this is a mango tree or a jackfruit tree or a lichee tree. To know the tree, it is necessary to look at the

tree, not its shadow. To know Brahma, it is no use remaining engrossed in the illusory reflections of Brahma. All the psychic tendencies will have to be directed towards Brahma.

Just as the egoistic mind is the subject of the living being, so Puruśa is the subject of the mind. In special circumstances we call this Puruśa the unit soul or jiivátman. Only by advancing in the direction of Brahma, and by attaining this original form, can human beings be liberated from this illusory world. To attain one’s original self is to attain the universal Puruśa. The objectfree unit soul and the objectfree universal soul are one and the same entity.

Átmajiṋánaḿidaḿ devi paraḿ mokśaekasádhanam Sukrtaermánavo bhútvá jiṋániicenmokśamápnuyát –Tantra This knowledge cannot be attained by reading books alone. It needs earnestness and spiritual practice. One has to pursue one’s path towards Brahma as the destination. If all the tendencies are directed towards Brahma, they will become subtler and subtler and will ultimately merge in Brahma. When there are no tendencies, there is no mind. You will go beyond the periphery of the mind. You will be released from the feeling of pain and pleasure and will ultimately attain the self.

CONTD. ON NEXT MONTH

RAM AAYENGE, RAGHUKUL RAM AAYENGE-FIJI INDIANS...

CONTD. FROM PG 20 This thought was further reformed when FIJI GIRMIT FOUNDATION NZ had invited Professor Brij Lal as our chief guest and keynote speaker in Girmit Day in Auckland in 2014.

While we COMMEMORATE the historical incidents, we however CELEBRATE the ordinary people who did extraordinary things in extraordinary times.

We celebrate that heritage and legacies of perseverance -of never giving up.

We celebrate the resilience of our people. we celebrate the birth of Fiji Indian unique identity and culture.

We celebrate the seniors who receive the awards for carrying the baton from Girmitiyas and maintaining our culture and cultural traits.

We celebrate the achievements of our descendants through awards.

We celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit of our people-and that includes many Fiji Indians in position power and wealth who have no time for their heritage.

So, we do hope people can differentiate between the historical events of COMMEMORATION and CELEBRATING the cultural,

economic and social development of a unique race of people with unique cultural traits, a tree grown out of seeds from India growing in the soils, wind, environments, and atmosphere of Pacifika Fiji, being Pacifika people, who we FIJI INDIANS ARE IN NEW ZEALAND. I take liberty to publish quotes of professor Brij Lal when he was a keynote speaker in Auckland in Girmit Day in May, 2014.

“One of my life’s ambitions has been to remember what others have forgotten or chosen to forget – to give our people a voice and a modicum of humanity, to give them a place at the table of history.

We need to remind the new generation about our history: history doesn't only belong to the victors but to the vanquished as well.

One thing I have done in life before I go is to give these voiceless people a voice - a sense of place, a sense of purpose. People will remember this aspect by history. I do not celebrate struggles and sacrifices and sufferings of our people.

What I marvel at is how ordinary people did extraordinary things in extraordinary circumstances.

We, their descendants,

30 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024

"Chalo Jahaji" - the mammoth 400-page book by Professor Brij Lal, (right) being autographed before being gifted to Pastor Andrew Pratap (left) of Calvary Indian Assembly of God Church (Now late pastor). Looking on, in the Center is author of "Tears in Paradise" Rajendra Prasad, who is also a Trustee and Executive of Fiji Girmit Foundation NZ, which was behind getting Professor Brij Lal to Auckland. have inherited those traits and legacy of our forebears.

And that is that even in difficult circumstances, we never give up and we never compromise. There is a kind of dignity within us, where did it come from? It comes from people who travelled thousands of miles in difficult circumstances, but never gave up. This is the legacy of Girmit that I think we are celebrating, not those horrible things we read in books many years ago.

I now wish to quote the violence and atrocities of Girmit, from Rajendra Prasad's “Tears in Paradise.

In his historic epic, “Tears in Paradise”, Rajendra Prasad adds: Pain from the wounds of Girmit resided in the hearts and minds of its victims and their families, but it failed to find expression publicly or in history books. …the Indo Fijians, who were a significant part of Fiji and had made

an enormous contribution towards its economic, social, cultural and political development, had escaped the history books.

What that effectively means is that there is a vacuum as far as contribution on Fiji Indians to Fiji’s or Pacific’s History is concerned.

I hope when we are gone, our children will remember the sacrifices our generation made for their brighter future.

To awaken the dead conscience of Fiji Indians towards their Girmitiyas, I add the following powerful quote from the pages of Rajendra Prasad’s “Tears in Paradise” Even in the stillness of cane stalks, one can almost feel the powerful presence of the spirits of sorrow and grief exuding from these sugarcane fields. they are the spirits of our ancestors.

The desperate cries of the Girmitiyas echoed from 1879 -1919 in the fields, but it was not until later that the outside world came to their rescue. when their white masters turned away their faces and the victims seethed in agony, the Girmitiyas found comfort in relating their anguish to the trees and plants around them. a folk song called Bidesiya, a lamentation, composed under these traumatic

circumstances by one of the Girmitiyas, reflects the depth of their suffering: "churi, kudaari ke sung, ab bitay din aur ratian, ganne ki hari hari patiya, jaane hamari dil ki batiyaan In these couplets, the lyricist tells of the widespread suffering of the Girmitiyas’ work in the sugarcane fields, saying that the knife and hoe are their companions day and night. atrocities against them are so blatant that even the green leaves of sugarcane bear witness to the flames of anguish that consume their heart.

Let us all Fiji Indian Girmitiya descendants mark 14 May as FIJI GITMIT REMEMBRANCE DAY, this year and every year.

SALUTATIONS TO THE GIRMITIYAS - SHAT SHAT NAMAN [About the Author: Thakur Ranjit Singh is a third-generation descendant of Fiji Girmitiya Bansi who came to Fiji from Karouli, Rajasthan, India in 1915. Thakur is a journalist, a media commentator and regular contributor to this and other publications, promoting Girmit and his heritage.

E-mail: thakurjifj@gmail. com.]

BASAVA SAMITI OF ASIA PACIFIC LTD, BRISBANE CHAPTER

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On the auspicious occasion of Guru Basava’s birthday, the great 12th-century poet-philosopher and social reformer.

We invite you to join us for this grand launch of the MILANA matrimony platform .

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024 — 31

Bhartiya Samaj Hosts Successful "Health & Wellbeing for Senior Migrants" Workshop at APSQ Hall Bhartiya Samaj, a prominent community organisation, hosted a groundbreaking "Health & Wellbeing for Senior Migrants" workshop at APSQ (Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland) Hall on March 3, 2024. Tailored for senior migrants, the event aimed to provide crucial insights into their health and wellbeing.

The workshop featured an engaging session with distinguished medical professionals as keynote speakers. Notable guests included Councillor Angela Owen, President of FICQ Mr Anoop Nannuru, and renowned doctors such as Dr Tarun Sehgal (Psychiatrist), Dr Raji Parangad (Audiologist), Dr Suhasini Singh (Cardiologist), Dr Rajesh Jawajiwar (General Physician), Dr Thuy Nguyen (Optometrist), and Dr Ram Mohan (ECCQ - Board Director, President of MCCQ & Advisory Board Member of Bhartiya Samaj).

With over 150 attendees, the Q&A segment provided a platform for the audience to interact with the experts, creating an informative and inclusive atmosphere.

In addition to the workshop, the event showcased a Curtain

Relations Email: BSBrisbane@ outlook.com Phone: 0415 684 027

Raiser for Bhartiya Samaj's next Mega Event, the "Empowering Migrants Expo," scheduled for August 4, 2024, at Brisbane City Hall. Distinguished guests, keynote speakers, and over 30 community organisation leaders previewed the upcoming Expo, set to be

a monumental event in Queensland.

The "Empowering Migrants - Expo" aims to build an inclusive and thriving multicultural Australia. The event will feature educational pop-ups, cultural dance performances, migrants' achievement

awards, and various intercommunity engagements.

Beyond cultural integration, the Expo will provide essential information on educational pathways and job employment for migrant community members.

Bhartiya Samaj expresses gratitude to APSQ for

hosting the workshop and looks forward to continued collaboration for future impactful events.

For more information, please contact: Mrs Manshu Sharma Public Relations Officer Bhartiya Samaj Media

About Bhartiya Samaj: Bhartiya Samaj is a not for profit, non-political and non-religious charity incorporated in June 2022 in Australia. Our objective is to contribute to building a more inclusive Australia by undertaking activities that establish unity in the diversity amongst the migrants through; empowering with knowledge; building confident identities; and facilitating interactions with the larger community.

Since 1995, the Bhartiya Samaj Charitable Trust has been actively helping the South Asian community in New Zealand and trying to improve the varied communities.

Bhartiya Samaj is a leading community organisation committed to fostering cultural integration and supporting the welfare of migrants in Australia. Through various initiatives, Bhartiya Samaj aims to create a vibrant and inclusive community for individuals of diverse backgrounds.

A humble man’s journey from the construction site to the Mayoral Chambers of a major Australia City Mayor Jon Raven Mayor Jon Raven, along with 12 Councillors of the City of Logan, took their Declaration of Office in a ceremony held at the Logan Entertainment Centre on Friday, April 5th, 2024, amidst the presence of family and friends. Representing the longstanding friendship with the Deo family, Shanjeshni Deo, Managing Editor of the Brisbane Indian Times, was graciously invited to the event.

In his inaugural address as Mayor, Jon Raven expressed his fervent commitment to changing the city's reputation over the next four years, aiming to attract investments, create jobs, and foster opportunities for the residents of Logan. Logan City stands out as one of the youngest, most diverse, and rapidly expanding cities in both the state and the nation.

Notably, JD Media, the parent company of the Brisbane Indian Times, recently relocated its headquarters to Logan City.

For several years, Mayor Raven has actively participated as a chief guest or speaker at community events hosted by the Deo Family Foundation, renowned for its benevolent and philanthropic endeavours. He is recognized for his familiarity with the

Mayor Jon Raven with Community leaders at recent Holi Celebration

Inaugural speech by Mayor Jon Raven at the swearing in ceremony

Mayor Jon Raven with Shanjeshni Deo and Ravneel Deo

diverse generations of the Australian Indian Diaspora, whether originating from India or other nations worldwide, who now call Logan City their home or are closely associated with its citizens.

Mayor Raven's roots

in Logan City run deep, with over twelve years of residency, currently residing in Waterford West.

Previously, he and his family owned and operated a business in the Civil Engineering sector, a venture he decided to sell in 2017 to

32 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024

fully devote his energies to serving as a Councillor.

His dedication and hard work as a Logan City Councillor were quickly acknowledged, with unprecedented achievements such as serving as Chairperson

Mayor Jon Raven with Jitendra and Shanjeshni Deo during holi celebrations and Deputy Chairperson of crucial Municipal Committees during his first term. Those early years as Councillor of Division 5 has provided invaluable learning experiences in various aspects of municipal governance, including corporate and finance planning, public interest infrastructure, community services, environmental sustainability, and economic development.

It came as no surprise when Mayor Raven was elevated to Deputy Mayor in the last two years before unanimously being elected as Mayor by the citizens of Logan City for the next four years. Mayor Raven is known for his inclusive approach, actively engaging in cultural celebrations and solemn observances within

the Queensland Indian Diaspora community, often donning Indian attire with majesty and grace.

Despite his affiliation with a major political party, Mayor Raven has never claimed endorsement or financial support from it.

He firmly believes in the independence of the Logan City Council, free from direct political influence.

As a Logan City-based business, the Brisbane Indian Times, with its directors being close friends of Mayor Raven, extends its warm wishes for his success. Mayor Raven's commitment to faithfully serving all citizens of Logan City is deeply appreciated, as he passionately asserts himself as the Mayor and friend of every resident of this great city.

Call: (07) 3192 5188

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024 — 33

Pete Lane Rai Community Contributed for New Illuminated Sign – Gayatri visits Fiji Mandir, Boondall

By Peter Lane Rai

Prem Chand approached few businessmen and obtained funds to manufacture the “Gayatri Mandir” illuminated sign and install on the Site.

The kind donors of this project were: • Dr Dip Chand; • Retired Suresh Motibhai; • Bhaskara Nand (Bobby

Builder); • Businessman Suresh Sharma; • Retired Yashwant Lal; • Retired Prem Chand; • Businessman Anand Kumar; • Valhalla Accounting Salesh; • Businessman Ashok Kumar; and • Businessman Sunny Sachin Charan.

The sign will be a Dusk to Dawn /daylight timer switch that will: Turn ON - When Night gets dark; and Turn OFF- When Morning daylight arrives.

Power was installed free of charge by a true devoted Hindu, Mr Niraj Kumar of Strathpine.

Prem Chand has contributed a lot to the

Masters Athlete Ganga Prasad Still Winning Medals

Mr GANGA PRASAD Veteran Masters Athlete of Redbank, Queensland still winning medals at competitions.

Recently he competed in 2024 Queensland State Masters Annual Athletics

Championships in March 2024 and won 10 Medals - 4 Golds, 2 Silvers and 4 Bronze medals. His events were Shot Put, Discus, Javelin, Weight Throw, Hammer Throw, Long Jump, Triple Jump, High Jump,

34 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024

Weight Pentathlon and Open Pentathlon. All his winnings made Ganga the highest medals winner in the Championships.

CONGRATULATIONS to Ganga from Brisbane Indian Times.

Brisbane Indian Times since its inception and served as Secretary for 7 years, Vice President for 4 years and President for 2 years Hindu Society of Queensland Inc. Prem Chand was the first Voluntary Community Service Winner award given

by Brisbane Indian Times for his recognition to the Community at large.

I’m running down a muddy farm track, past cows, green fields as well as pineapple and coconut trees. It’s hot, steamy and raining.

I think I’m in Queensland when, suddenly, a tiny mongoose darts across my path. Next, I see a bright red Hindu temple and Indian farmers working their land so I know I’m back in Nadi, Fiji again, to do some voluntary work.

Everyone was excited that the Fijian Drua Rugby Union team were playing the Western Force (from Perth,) in Lautoka Saturday 23rd March. Yet, I was in Lautoka for something far more important than a Rugby Match - to meet my friends who are working to make Fiji and the Pacific a better and healthier place!

One couple, Rowena, a Filipino and her husband, Daesong from Korea, organise a team of volunteers several times a year to hold a dental and medical clinic in different local villages.

The villagers can have their teeth checked and also are

given reading glasses for no charge. Children are able to enjoy games and activities.

The clinics, which take much time, money and work to organise, are a great success.

Then I meet Scott and Kathy from the USA who are also doing a voluntary medical programme in villages to help the local women by educating them on women’s health issues. They also give the women health products for no charge.

These are inspiring friends – and, in my short time of 10 days in Fiji, I also want to contribute to make Fiji a better place. So, I also spend time with Youth from a local Church discussing how to deal with the challenge to resist drugs and pornography which can destroy a life, marriage or family. I was shocked to learn that in the last part of 2023, Fijians downloaded pornography to the equivalent of 100 million books!

Hopefully, the discussions alerted the Youth to the dangers of drugs and pornography and that they will now make the right choices to make their own lives and Fiji a happier and healthier place. I was also able to spend several nights with adults discussing how to live a healthier life style.

I returned to Brisbane for Easter but look forward to returning to Fiji again later in 2024 and even though I am now 78, still want to do more voluntary work.

Written by Peter Lane Rai, Nadi, Fiji, March 27th 2024.

Congratulating Another Centurion Queenslander

Joan Clark of Clontarf, Queensland celebrated her 100th birthday on Saturday, the 23rd of March at her Son Robert (Bob) and Daughter in law Anila's house where she lives. She celebrated the milestone with her Grand Children, Great Grand Children and other Family Members.

Joan was born on the 23rd of Marc, 1924. Her

parents, Samuel Hardy and Alice Hardy lived in Highgate Hill, Brisbane then. She was the 3rd child from the family of 6. She is the only one still alive.

Joan married Eric Clark in 1950 and lived in Royal Terrace. They had 3 children who are Robert, Lynda and Desliegh, the youngest whom they lost at the age of 53.

She lost her Husband in April 2014. Joan has 10 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren.

Joan loves to watch all sports, especially her Broncos team playing on the Television and listening to the wireless.

She also has a great sense of humour.

Congratulations from the Brisbane Indian Times community!

Sai Baba Aarti Program 86 Scott Lane, North Maclean /www.shreevishnumayamandir.com.au. 04812 38360

every Thursday @ 7.30pm Brisbane northside

Ram Navami Celebration By: Dharam Guru Pundit Ram Harsh Tripathi Ji

Everyone please come and join us in this Ram Navami celebration

Date: Tuesday 9th to Wednesday 17th of April 2024

Time: Mon to Friday 6:30pm onwards.

Week Ends - 5:00pm Onwards

Virginia State School 1678 Sandgate Rd Virginia Dinner/prasad provided

Saturday 13th April - Hawan at 5:00pm Hawan Sponsor $111.00

Wed 17th April: Bhajans & Kirtans will begin at 10:30am Shree Ram Ji ka Janam Utsav at sharp 12:00 noon.

Janm Utsav will follow by Maha Prasad (Birth Celebration Feast)

17th Evening - Janam Utsav Grand Celebration of Lord Ram will begin at 6:00pm with: Bhajans, Kirtans, Jhulan, Garba & finally the Feast.

For any pooja needs, bhajans, katha, or Manka Ramayan please contact Guruji SMS 0405 392793

Contact: Devika Maharaj: 04248 91159, Ranil Dayal: 04031 46575, Bharat Solanki: 04111 31485, Rajesh Gopal: 04223 44046, Dhiru Desai: 04062 13153, or the Temple: 5548 6814

facebook.com/SaiBabaBrisbane www.saisaileshwara.com.au/events

Call: (07) 3192 5188

Food Sponsor $400.00

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024 — 35

GOPIO Queensland Celebrates Women's Day GOPIO Queensland Inc hosted a remarkable Women's Day event on March 17th, 2024, at Indian Brothers, Annerley, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds to celebrate the strength, resilience, and beauty of women worldwide.

Prominent businesswomen, community leaders, and advocates of women's empowerment graced the event as speakers, sharing their experiences and strategies for success.

Among the esteemed speakers were Lisa Ward, CEO of ECCQ (Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland), Pravinita Singh Pillay, Principal Lawyer of Cornerstone Law Offices, and Suman Dua, Founder of Nationwide Migration and Visa Services.

The event also featured a special Q&A session by Umesh Chandra OAM, Executive Vice President of GOPIO International and Founder President of GOPIO Queensland, providing valuable insights into women's empowerment.

Attendees enjoyed a delightful 3-course lunch accompanied by Champagne, adding a touch of elegance to the celebration. The MC for the function was Mrs. Usha Chandra, Vice President of GOPIO, who ensured the smooth flow of the event.

"We are immensely

grateful to our dedicated committee members for their hard work and commitment.

Their contributions have been invaluable in making this event a success."

The event was organized in less than two weeks by the new committee, demonstrating their efficiency and dedication to the cause. The committee members who played vital

36 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024

roles in organizing the event include: • President: Arpit Singh • 1st Vice President: Usha Chandra • 2nd Vice President: Nileshni Balgovind • Joint Secretary: Irene Bayldon • Treasurer: Rohani Prasad • Asst. Treasurer: Rishi Bhardwaj

• Public Relations Officer: Sidharth Malhotra • Business Council Chair: Yousuf Ali Khan • Youth Council Chair: Kanish Chhabra The event not only celebrated women's achievements but also served a philanthropic purpose.

Raffle prizes were sold to raise funds for GOPIO Queensland's

initiatives supporting women in need. Attendees enjoyed a memorable time together, highlighted by an amazing dance and singing performance to honor the achievements of women.

"This inaugural Women's Day event was a testament to the incredible achievements of women in our community," continued the organizer. "It also

marked the first event for GOPIO Queensland under our new executive committee, dedicated to promoting empowerment and collaboration."

GOPIO Queensland extends its heartfelt gratitude to all attendees for their support and invites everyone to join future events aimed at fostering inclusivity and equity.

GANGA AARTI CELEBRATING GANGA DUSSEHRA 16 JUNE 2024 4PM TO 6PM NEWSTEAD PARK ROTUNDA (NEXT TO NEWSTEAD HOUSE PUBLIC PONTOON) NEWSTEAD

SAI BABA PALKI FESTIVAL Sat 20 July 2024 4.30PM Children's program Grand Palki procession Music & dance Cultural & spiritual program Sai Baba Aarti

Guru Poornima 2024

*FREE DINNER PROVIDED* Virginia State School 1678 Sandgate Rd Virginia

FREE ticket download via QR Code Exclusive media partners Call: (07) 3192 5188

More info: saisaileshwara.com.au/events/guru-poornima-palki-festival/ www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024 — 37

Sant Nirankari Mission Australia Leads Campaign to Keep Australian Beaches Clean

Adelaide-SA

canberra-act

davenport-tas

sydney-nsw

melbourne-vic

perth-wa

On 3rd March 2024, The Sant Nirankari Mission Australia (SNMA) proudly joined the Clean Up Australia campaign to advocate for the preservation and cleanliness of water bodies by organising beach cleanup events across Australia.

On this day, close to 1000 volunteers from the SNMA simultaneously gathered at the beaches across seven different cities to help contribute to keeping our beautiful country clean: 1. Adelaide – Semaphore Beach 2. Brisbane – Redcliffe Beach 3. Canberra – Lake Burley 4.

Melbourne – Aspendale Beach 5. Perth – Hillarys Beach 6. Sydney – Manly Beach 7. Tasmania – Bluff Beach The Sant Nirankari Mission is a Global spiritual and social welfare movement advocating the importance of unity amongst all humankind.

The catalyst for SNMA’s participation in this beautiful event is the

brisbane-qld teachings of Satguru Mata Sudiksha Ji Maharaj, the Spiritual Head of the Sant Nirankari Mission. Satguru Mata Sudiksha Ji has often said in her discourses, ' While maintaining the cleanliness of surroundings, it is equally essential to maintain the cleanliness of the Mind.’

A Global Initiative This initiative by SNM Australia is part of a Global initiative by the Sant Nirankari Mission known as Project Amrit, which is an inspiring move towards global environmental stewardship.

The term ‘Amrit’, a Hindi term, symbolizes that water is an

elixir for living beings.

Inspired by the slogan 'Swachh Jal, Swachh Man' (Clean Water, Clean Mind), Project Amrit’s initial launch saw more than 1.1 million volunteers participate in waterway cleaning programs across 1500 locations in India. Similar waterway conservation

campaigns have also been organised in 70 countries all over the globe.

The activities under Project Amrit are complemented by the Sant Nirankari Mission's ongoing commitment to social welfare, including blood donation drives, tree planting, and environmental

awareness programs. Each of these welfare programs encourages volunteers to manifest the ‘Think Global, Act Local’ principle.

Her Holiness to Undertake a Spiritual Tour Across Australia and New Zealand This drive for social service stems from the guidance of Her Holiness Satguru Mata Sudiksha Ji Maharaj. Mata Sudiksha Ji has devoted her life to encouraging all humans to lead a life full of spirituality, love, and service to humanity.

Her Holiness Satguru Mata Sudiksha Ji Maharaj, along with her spouse, Nirankari Rajpita Ramit Ji, will embark on a Spiritual Tour across Australia and New Zealand throughout April 2024. During her tour, Her Holiness will visit seven cities and share the message of ‘Know One, Be One’.

Details of Her Holiness tour can be found at https:// www.nirankari.org/news/ salvationtour_202404aunz/.

International Women’s Week Celebrations - ISCA The International Women’s Week finale was celebrated on 24th March at Runcorn State School with great enthusiasm by the Indian Senior Citizens Association. Ekta Women’s Group ladies came together with tremendous enthusiasm.

The theme for this year was, 'Count Her In; Invest in Women, Accelerate Progress'.

True to the theme, the ladies put on a fantastic show of togetherness, unity, and passion, Showcasing some amazing talents with inspirational talks, poems, folk song and dance.

Chief guest Councillor Kim Marx stood amongst the vibrant purple saris, enjoying every moment of it. The event ended with Holi songs and dance followed by a lovely lunch.

38 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024

Compassion, culture and citizenship: A different international experience Some international trips are for romance, for relaxation or for adventure. Others are for business, for family or for nostalgia. One international trip to India is for compassion, for culture and, most importantly for its travelers, for global citizenship.

Life Global Australia launched its first philanthropic trip to India in 2023. The itinerary included visiting the beneficiaries of the charity’s three programmes, in education, health and women’s independence, but also involved learning more about the culture and history of the state of Gujarat. The effect on the volunteer board members and donors who participated was so strong the trip was reprised in 2024.

“It was an emotionally profound experience,” said LifeGA’s Director Rachel Thompson. “The trip was filled with unforgettable moments.”

Chair of the LifeGA Advisory Board, Geoff Anson, went in 2023 to see with his own eyes the people and their needs.

“I went back in 2024 because we successfully raised funds and I wanted to meet the people we were actually helping.”

The donors and volunteer directors who have participated in LifeGA’s tours in Gujarat have all wanted to understand more about the effect their contributions are having. The 2023 trip began with a visit to Mulchand Village school and a labourers’ school near Rajkot. Dr McGowan’s father donated the money to build the Mulchand Village

school in memory of his wife.

The schools were important destinations as one of the first realisations Founding Director Dr Dipti McGowan had was that education is the key to independence. If students can stay at school, both students and the community can develop.

“My mother was born in a remote rural village and lived a very simple life with her family. She was a girl in a remote area of the world where gender equity was, and continues to be, unheard of.

She had to stop her education at primary level to help in the home. My mother ensured my education was uninterrupted.

This has empowered me to lead a successful, confident and independent life.”

For donors Mary and Lee Thompson, the visit to Mulchand Village school was a highlight. 2023 was the fifth anniversary of its opening, and the first year of graduation.

“The whole village came out to welcome us with music and dancing and great joy. The smiles on the children's faces were unforgettable.”

In both 2023 and 2024, the Life Blood Centre in Rajkot provided another opportunity to see the outcome of

LifeGA’s funding. The centre, established in 1981 by LifeGA’s partner charity, Project Life, is internationally recognised for its world class equipment and commitment to providing scientifically validated processes. By 2024, LifeGA donors had enabled 100 units of blood to go free of cost to needy recipients, and funded 500 screening tests for Thalassemia, a crippling hereditary blood disorder.

Dr McGowan found meeting the Thalassemia patients very moving, while Geoff Anson was impressed by their resilience.

“Their struggle, their humility, their thankfulness, were all impactful.”

The impact of meeting those for whom the charity was founded clearly resonated with all trip participants. For Rachel Thompson, the visit to

remote schools showcased the dedication of teachers and the eagerness of children to learn, despite challenges, while hearing the beneficiaries’ stories of resilience and hope, despite facing significant challenges, was the most important part of the trip.

“They reminded me of why we do what we do here at LifeGA. It reinforced the

importance of our collective efforts and the real change that can be achieved through compassion and support.”

Dr McGowan was struck by the courage of trainees in the Women’s Empowerment Programme. Participants in this programme are usually from impoverished remote areas, or are widows struggling to support their families. They

receive vocational training as well as studying budgeting, banking, finance, gender equality and self-defense.

“Many of the women were travelling further than they had ever gone before and into a city which they had never seen before,” Dr McGowan said. “That would have taken great courage.”

“These women's lives were transformed by having the opportunity to learn a skill that could support them and their families,” Mary Thompson said. “They were so happy and grateful, but also overcome with emotion as they told their stories. It was very humbling for us and so incredible to see how such a small thing on our part could make such a huge difference to their lives.”

One of Dr McGowan’s aims for the annual trip is a very pragmatic one. As LifeGA’s Director and Chairperson, she is committed to ensuring every donation to the charity is used as intended. Dr McGowan meets with the executive of in-country partner, Project Life, viewing their records and meeting the beneficiaries.

“LifeGA’s aim is to make meaningful change by donating money where the money is not eaten up by administration fees,” Dr McGowan said. Donations to LifeGA in Australia are passed on with no administration costs to the partner charity, which in turn has been vetted to have lower than 5% administration costs. “Each trip we also see where the need is for future donations.”

CONTD. ON PG 43

Best travel destinations, journeys and experiences in 2024 Book review: Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2024

By Rama Gaind Published by Lonely Planet, $27.99 When an English-born Australian publishing entrepreneur, businessman and travel writer, Tony Wheeler co-founded the Lonely Planet guidebook company with his wife, Maureen, in 1973, they had a shared vision to fulfil travel dreams.

They also comprehended “… unique experiences, people and perspectives awaited around every Call: (07) 3192 5188

corner.”

Five decades later, Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2024 builds on this legacy of inspiring future journeys, near and far, with 50 destinations, journeys and encounters. Let this beautifully illustrated edition set the holiday agenda for the year to come!

It is Lonely Planet’s 19th publication of the annual collection, featuring highlights of must-visit destinations around the world, including the top 10 countries.

South Australia’s Kangaroo Island sits in the number two regional position as it proudly showcases its distinct local produce, abundant wildlife, natural experiences and some of the nation's most pristine beaches. After a resilient recovery from the devastating 2020 bushfires, this much-lauded island has re-emerged as a premier ecotourism hotspot in Australia.

According to Lonely Planet's senior director of trade sales and marketing Chris Zeiher, Kangaroo Island provides a quintessential

Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2024 returns to its best-selling print format as well as online and across social channels.

Australian travel experience.

“It's blessed with amazing beaches, offers delicious food, wine, and spirits experiences, and delivers on the drama when it comes to outdoor adventures.”

“It's been much lauded of late, but 2024 is the year that Kangaroo Island will be set to capitalise on all of the accolades. Best illustrated by the reopening of the prestigious Southern Ocean Lodge and the launch of a stunning new visitors' centre at the entrance of Flinders Chase National Park. Get there before the rest of the world works it out — 2024 is the year to pop KI on your travel list.”

While all the selections place emphasis on experiences celebrating community and diversity, there’s also a specific catalogue of top sustainable travel and best-value destinations to show how you can journey well in a world of rising costs.

Travel experts have ranked these lists for topicality, uniqueness and a ‘wow’ factor. Leading the 2024 class are the untamed open lands of Mongolia, bike-touring on the Trans Dinarica Cycling Route across the western Balkans and diving into one of Africa’s most dynamic cities.

Finishing the headline acts

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are Nairobi in Kenya, a maintainable travel guide to Spain and a budget-friendly adventure in the USA’s Midwest. More suggestions follow from Donegal in Ireland’s windswept northwest to the spectacular deserts of Algeria. Then there’s Kangaroo Island’s raw native nature and jungleframed beaches on St Lucia.

These picks seek to both inspire and follow the instincts of the postpandemic traveller, with a nod to countries indelibly associated with the Lonely Planet story; revisiting India, Thailand and Kenya.

Also included are choices like Nicaragua, Benin and Uzbekistan that have rarely, if ever, been in the series.

Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2024 also delivers a new take on popular destinations such as Japan, Tuscany, Italy and Mexico, and unearths some lesserknown gems like Uzbekistan, Ikaria, Greece and Izmir, Turkey.

‘Slow Travel’ is celebrated by highlighting the Camino Portuguese hiking trail and the continued rise of night trains in Europe. Featured

in the Top 10 Best Value category, the Southern Lakes and Central Otago regions of New Zealand (including the towns of Queenstown and Wanaka) beckons travellers to embrace a leisurely pace, reduce their environmental impact, enjoy new cycling routes, rich local culture and wonderful cuisine and wines.

Appreciate the fresh takes, with specifics, on popular themes.

Enjoy hiking and rediscovering old favourites. Then consider the Portuguese Camino de Santiago, and the trail system throughout Wales. Thrilling renaissance of night trains in Europe remains a fine way to combine sleeping with an unforgettable passage that’s very much on-trend among the climate-conscious.

Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2024 reflects on how travel is a privilege not enjoyed by everyone in the world in the same way.

According to Tom Hall, for the lucky ones 2024 is a year of huge, thrilling possibility.

The final word before hitting the road is: “… All you’ve got to do is decide to go and the hardest part is over. So go.”

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024 — 39

Holi celebration in Gold Coast by ICGC

by Pushpinder Oberoi The ICGC Indian community of Gold Coast celebrated their 5th annual Gold Coast Colour Festival Holi on March 2 at Broadwater Parklands. More than 3 thousand people attended and nonstop performances from around various

multicultural community groups. The vivid colours and festive atmosphere brought Indians and wider community together, creating a memorable community event with traditions & Joy. Holi symbolizes a fresh start to new season & encouraging people to welcome spring

with enthusiasm.

There was foam pit, 45 metres inflatable obstacle course, food trucks and many other free activities.

Thank you, all Dignitaries, who joined in the celebration E.g.: Sam O Connor MP Angie bell MP

Mark Buthon MP Cr. Hermann Vorster Gold Coast Police representative And many other community leaders.

Big Thanks to the sponsors and supporting partners include TMC Organisation, Dosa Hut Gold Coast, Big Belly and others.

GOPIO Gold Coast Host International Women's Day Hi-Tea

On Saturday 9th of March Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin GOPIO Gold Coast Inc. held a High Tea in celebration of International Women's Day. We take this opportunity to express our gratitude and thanks to our speakers,

sponsors and partners for their support in making this event possible. Your generosity helped create a memorable experience for all attendees.

We would like to thank our diverse panel speakers for sharing their insights,

40 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024

passion and inspiration: Pam Samra-Chauhan Dr Kuljit Singh Saalihah Seedat Deesha Gorasia A big thank you also to Ellice De-Giovanni, a brain changing movement specialist that led the

Many thanks to Volunteer and ICGC executive committee.

Patron: Pushpinder Oberoi President: Manish Saini Vice president and Treasurer: Venkat Rao Secretary: Senthil PRO: Ree Ali Councillor: Dinesh

Balsara Joint Secretary: Seema Sharma Joint Treasurer: Sadhana Community development: Naren Chavda Student ambassador: Devika, Dhruv and Mohit Volunteers: Rahul and Bheem.

GOPIO Gold Coast present Santoor performance in Gold Coast

attendees in a brain training session.

Our sincere appreciation goes to the businesses and individuals who generously donated prizes for our raffle supporting women affected by domestic violence and GC Homeless Youth.

𝐆𝐥𝐨𝐛𝐚𝐥 𝐎𝐫𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐏𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐎𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐧 𝐆𝐎𝐏𝐈𝐎 𝐆𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐈𝐧𝐜. 𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐆𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐒𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐨𝐨𝐫 - 𝐌𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐌𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐜 𝐨𝐟 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐌𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐬. 𝐖𝐞 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐕𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐲 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐚𝐢 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐔𝐒𝐀 𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐨𝐨𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐉𝐚𝐲 𝐃𝐚𝐛𝐠𝐚𝐫 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐌𝐞𝐥𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐞 𝐨𝐧 𝐓𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐚. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐀𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐭𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐬

𝐀𝐝𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐝𝐞, 𝐌𝐞𝐥𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐞, 𝐒𝐲𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐆𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐚𝐬𝐭. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 held 𝐨𝐧 𝟏𝐬𝐭 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒 (𝐅𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐲) 𝐚𝐭 𝟔:𝟑𝟎 𝐩𝐦 𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐇𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐯𝐚𝐥𝐞 𝐂𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐞. We were mesmerized by Vinay Desai's performance on Santoor, and Jay Dagbar on Tabla. Thank you to them and the fabulous audience.

Some came from Brisbane too.

Call: (07) 3192 5188

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024 — 41

BRS leader K Kavitha denied interim bail in Delhi’s excise policy case A Delhi Court on Monday denied interim bail to Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader K Kavitha in the money laundering case related to the now scrapped Delhi liquor excise policy.

Kavitha had moved the application citing her 16-year-old son’s exams and a provision in the anti-money laundering law favouring release of a female accused on bail.

Special judge Kaveri Baweja dismissed her application after she reserved her verdict last week on April 4.

Kavitha had, during the hearing on April 4, contended that she should be granted bail under the proviso to Section 45 of Prevention of Money

Laundering (PMLA) that allows the court to release female accused on bail, bypassing the usual stringent bail conditions of the PMLA. The need for her presence for her son was also highlighted, pointing out that the emotional support of a mother is necessary during exam time.

ED opposed the bail plea on grounds that the exception for women under the proviso to Section 45 of PMLA is intended for women who lack agency, and not to someone like Kavitha who is a prominent politician.

ED had averred that she is one of the main accused in the case, alleging her involvement in bribery and

benefiting through proxies based on documents and WhatsApp chats.

Zoheb Hossain, special public prosecutor for ED, also claimed that Kavitha had destroyed evidence, including data on her mobile phone, which was evident from forensic reports.

Regarding Kavitha’s son’s exams, Hossain pointed out that seven out of twelve papers were already completed, and that the 16-year-old boy had family members.

She has also moved a regular bail application before the court which

is listed for hearing the arguments on April 20.

Kavitha, who was arrested by the ED on March 15 in connection with the Delhi excise policy case, has been in judicial custody at Tihar Jail since March 26.

While Kavitha has not been formally charged in any of the six ED charge sheets filed thus far, she has been referenced as a significant figure in court documents.

The primary allegation against Kavitha revolves around her alleged involvement in a bribery scheme, known as the “South Group”, which purportedly paid kickbacks worth Rs. 100 crore to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders in exchange for preferential

treatment in securing retail zones under the Delhi excise policy.

Additionally, Kavitha is also under scrutiny by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which issued a summons to her last month in connection with the case.

Despite the summons, Kavitha cited an exemption granted by the Supreme Court and did not appear before the CBI. Last week, CBI also obtained permission from the court to interrogate her while during her judicial custody.

Kavitha has also approached the court opposing the order seeking to keep it in abeyance till she is also heard.

Rain brings respite to Odisha; Union minister, his aunt try to take control of Matua matriarch’s IMD's heatwave alert for these states | Weather updates house in Bengal The TMC shared a video of Shantanu Thakur and his supporters purportedly trying to break the lock of the house of Boro Maa, his grandmother, with a hammer. nion minister Shantanu Thakur and his aunt and Trinamool Congress (TMC) Rajya Sabha member Mamata Bala Thakur allegedly tried to take control of the house of the late Matua community matriarch Binapani Devi, popularly known as Boro Maa who died at 100 in 2019, on Sunday evening in West Bengal’s Thakurnagar.

The TMC shared a video of Shantanu Thakur and his supporters purportedly trying to break the lock of the house of Boro Maa, his grandmother, with a hammer.

Mamata Bala Thakur, who resides in the house, called the attempt unprecedented.

“I have never witnessed such things. Being a Union minister and BJP MP [member of Parliament], he along with his family members and supporters broke open the gate with hammers and entered Boro Maa’s room wearing shoes. I am Rajya Sabha MP. If BJP can do this to me, what would happen to the common people?” Mamata Bala Thakur said before lodging a police complaint.

Shantanu Thakur asked to whom the house of Boro Maa belongs. “What is my relationship with...Boro Maa? I am her grandson.

Even I have the right to stay in her house. No law on the earth can take away this right from me. I requested her [Mamata Bala Thakur]

There are two branches of the family and there may be a family feud. Mamata Bala Thakur is forcibly trying to establish her rights.

10-15 times to open the gates. But if someone gives shelter to hooligans in this house, I need to check that.”

BJP state chief Sukanta Majumdar questioned which law says Mamata Bala Thakur has the right and Shantanu Thakur does not over the house. “There are two branches of the family and there may be a family feud. Mamata Bala Thakur is forcibly trying to establish her rights.”

TMC leader Arup Chakraborty maintained Shantanu Thakur and his men broke the gates of the house, where the Matua community prays. “He is

42 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024

now trying to brand it as a family feud. This is an insult to the entire Matua community and no apology is enough. Shantanu Thakur will have to pay the price in the [Bongaon] Lok Sabha election.”

In 2019, the BJP wrested the Bongaon Lok Sabha seat by fielding Shantanu Thakur against the then-TMC MP Mamata Bala Thakur.

The Matua community is concentrated in parts of 24 North Parganas, Nadia, Cooch Behar, South Dinajpur, Burdwan districts, etc. In 2019, the BJP also won the other Matua-majority Lok Sabha seat—Ranaghat.

The Matua community is a part of the Namasudra community.

Scheduled castes (SC) accounted for 21.4 million of Bengal’s population of at 91.3 million as per the 2011 Census.

Around 60 sub-castes come under the SC category.

Of these, the three major are the Rajbanshi, who accounted for 18.4% of the total SC population in 2011, the Namasudra (17.4 %), and the Bagdi (14.9%).

After prolonged heatwave conditions, parts of Odisha experienced relief on Sunday with a spell of rainfall.

Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warned on Monday that there will likely be heatwave conditions in isolated areas of South Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Rayalaseema, Telangana, and Interior Karnataka.

According to the IMD, the national capital recorded a maximum temperature of 35.6 degrees Celsius on Sunday, slightly above the seasonal average. The IMD's weekly forecast predicts that Delhi will witness significantly warmer days and nights by the end of the week. Maximum temperatures are expected to exceed 40°C around April 15 as the temporary relief from a western disturbance diminishes, ushering in a harsher summer.

Latest heatwave updates Odisha experienced light to moderate rainfall on Sunday between 8.30 am and 5.30 pm, relieving the prevailing heatwave conditions. The IMD predicted thunderstorms with lightning and gusty surface winds reaching 30-40 kmph on Tuesday, prompting a Yellow warning for several districts in Odisha.

On Sunday, maximum temperatures in Rayalaseema ranged from 42-44°C and were above normal by 2-5°C in many areas. Some regions, including Vidarbha, Madhya Maharashtra, South Interior Karnataka, and South Interior Odisha, saw maximum temperatures exceeding the 98th percentile. (The 98th percentile represents a value

higher than 98 per cent of the data points in a given set.)

- In the coming days, isolated pockets in north Interior Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Interior Karnataka, and Rayalaseema will likely experience temperatures exceeding the 98th percentile.

- Heatwave conditions are expected in isolated pockets of South Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Rayalaseema, Telangana, and Interior Karnataka on Monday, and warm night conditions are likely in isolated pockets of North Interior Karnataka.

- From Monday to Friday, hot and humid weather is forecast for Kerala and Mahe, coastal areas of Gujarat, Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam, and Rayalaseema.

These parts of India to witness rain From Monday till Wednesday, Arunachal Pradesh will witness widespread light to moderate rainfall/snowfall with isolated thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds, according to IMD. Isolated heavy rainfall is also anticipated on Monday.

A trough/wind discontinuity spanning from interior Odisha to north Tamil Nadu through Chhattisgarh, Vidarbha, and interior Karnataka is likely

to bring scattered to fairly widespread light/moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds (30-50 kmph) to various regions.

- Coastal Andhra Pradesh & Yanam, Telangana, Kerala & Mahe, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry & Karaikal anticipate isolated light/ moderate rainfall with thunderstorms, lightning & gusty winds during different periods from Monday till Friday.

- Hailstorm activity is expected at isolated places over Madhya Pradesh on Monday and Tuesday and over Vidarbha, Chhattisgarh, and Marathwada on Monday.

- Northwest India is likely to experience two Western Disturbances, the first from Wednesday and the second from Saturday, causing scattered to fairly widespread light rainfall/ snowfall with thunderstorms and lightning over JammuKashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and isolated rainfall/snowfall over Uttarakhand from Monday till Saturday.

- Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh anticipate isolated light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorms and lightning from Wednesday till April 13 with Punjab and Haryana expecting similar conditions on April 13

Compassion, culture and citizenship: A different international experience

CONTD. FROM PG 39 LifeGA’s trips, however, are more ambitious than simple tours of programmes and sites. The aim is to provide an enriching, holistic experience in which the culture of the region shines.

Warm welcomes, local festivals and traditional foods are all integral.

“The food was amazing!

The people were delightful!

The sights were magical!” Dr McGowan said.

“It was wonderful to travel with people who could speak the language,” Lee Thompson said. “There

Call: (07) 3192 5188

was a real connection with the people there. We were able to weave in some sightseeing and learn more about the history of the province and of India.”

In 2023 and 2024, the diverse itineraries included the Hindu pilgrimage sites of Somnath temple and the ancient city of Dwarka, Mahatma Gandhi’s birthplace of Porbandar, a Gandhi ashram, the wildlife sanctuary of Gir National Park, Rann Utsav the internationally renowned tent city in the White Desert, and the vibrant city of Ahmedabad, home to the world’s largest

cricket stadium. It is no wonder Geoff Anson found his journeys exciting and memorable.

“The energy of Indian cities is just incredible. The order within chaos is only seen in a few places on earth.”

Each of the participants in LifeGA’s tours is acutely aware of their global citizenship. Underpinning their trips to India is dedication to making a lasting impact. Donors and volunteers alike are driven by the conviction that positive change is not just possible, but essential.

“I was particularly

motivated by the needs of remote India as it is far away and often forgotten.

In remote areas like that, if funds do not arrive, people die. It's as simple as that,” Geoff Anson said. “I like giving back to important causes where the need is great.”

Rachel Thompson believes in the power of meaningful impact.

“Contributing resources and time is a way for me to make a lasting difference.”

For many, a journey from Australia to India would be a once-only experience. But for those profoundly affected by the

www.indiantimes.com.au

stories of beneficiaries – the change from poverty to independence, from despair to hope – the chance to return again and again is alluring.

“I am already looking forward to our next trip to India, knowing that each journey brings new perspectives, experiences,

and opportunities to make a positive impact,” Rachel Thompson said.

“The journey makes what we do real,” Dr McGowan said. “It has inspired and motivated me to keep donating my money, time and effort to LifeGA’s vision and mission.” (www. lifeglobal.org.au)

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024 — 43

FOCUS ON FIJI Hong Kong 7s | Double victory for New Zealand It was double victory for New Zealand as the curtain came down on a sensational Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens played out in front of a 40,000 strong sellout crowd with a vibrant atmosphere to match the thrilling action on the pitch over three days at Hong Kong Stadium.

New Zealand beat USA 36-7 in the women’s final to claim their third consecutive HSBC SVNS gold taking them above Australia to the top of the standings with one regular season event

remaining in Singapore.

Meanwhile the All Blacks Sevens won a tense men’s final 10-7 against France to defend their Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens title, win their first SVNS title of the season, and complete a tournament double.

Michaela Blyde scored a hat-trick as the Black Ferns Sevens proved too strong for a USA side making their first women’s final appearance of the season following an impressive 19-5 victory over France in the semi-final.

New Zealand hattrick

hero Blyde who was playing her fiftieth SVNS tournament said: “To come back with back-to-back wins in Hong

Kong is really special. We’re really proud of the way we performed today.

“We obviously weren’t

From the Editor-in-Chief’s desk: Your March 8 briefing

impressed or happy with how we performed at the start of the season. We had a lot of things that we needed to work on.

“We just need to bring it back to basics. There are a lot of teams that are starting to develop their skillset very quickly so for us we just wanted to stay on top of the game by being the best versions of ourselves, doing the simple things right, width-to-width, good accuracy with our passes and to try and be fitter and faster than most teams.

“As soon as you bring some speed and fitness into the game, you take control of momentum. If we can keep on top of that in our team, we can hopefully continue this constancy moving on into the Olympics.”

Australia had earlier lost to their trans-Tasman rivals 28-14 in the last four, but pulled off a thrilling 24-21 comeback win over France to take bronze. They now sit equal with New Zealand in the series standings on 106 points, but drop to second on points difference.

U.S. FDA approves expanded use of J&J’s cancer cell therapy

National coach Osea Kolinisau is adamant we have to keep our pushed passes to bring back some dominance in 7s rugby.

That’s the way to go he reckons if we are to exert some authority in the abbreviated version of the game.

That’s the big news on the front page of The Fiji Times for Monday, April 8.

Hong Kong 7s Rohit Deo and Baljeet Singh provide us with comprehensive coverage of the big event at the Happy Valley.

(Reuters) – The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Friday allowed the expanded use of Johnson & Johnson and

Magnitude 4.8 earthquake hits New York City region New York (Reuters) – A 4.8-magnitude earthquake struck near New York City on Friday morning, the U.S. Geological Survey said, shaking buildings up and down the East Coast and surprising residents in an area that rarely experiences notable seismic activity.

The quake’s epicenter was in Tewksbury in central New Jersey, about 40 miles (64 kilometers) west of New York City.

It occurred just after 10:20 a.m. ET (1420 GMT) at a depth of 4.7 kilometers (2.9 miles), the USGS said.

At 5:59 p.m. there was a small but noticeable aftershock, which had a magnitude of 4.0, according to the USGS. No major damage was reported, but engineering teams were inspecting roads and bridges.

“This is one of the largest earthquakes on the East Coast in the last century,” New York Governor Kathy Hochul said at a news conference.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams said that no injuries had been reported

but urged city residents to take cover under furniture, in a doorway or next to an interior wall if they felt aftershocks.

“New Yorkers should go about their normal day,” he said at a news conference.

People from Baltimore to Boston reported feeling rumbling and shaking, with some running outside to try to detect the source.

Charita Walcott, a 38-year-old resident in the Bronx borough of New York, said the quake felt “like a violent rumble that lasted about 30 seconds or so.”

“It was kind of like being in a drum circle, that vibration,” she said.

James Pittinger, mayor

44 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024

of Lebanon, New Jersey, near the quake’s epicenter, said there were no reports of injuries or significant damage but that people were unnerved.

“I was sitting in my home office when things started to fall off the walls and shelves,” Pittinger said.

“It was a crazy experience.”

U.S. President Joe Biden spoke with New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy about the earthquake, and the administration will provide assistance if needed, the White House said in a statement.

At the United Nations in midtown Manhattan, the Save the Children CEO abruptly stopped addressing the Security Council on the Israel-Gaza conflict as cameras began shuddering.

“You’re making the ground shake,” Palestinian UN envoy Riyad Mansour quipped.

Flights were held at area airports in the aftermath of the earthquake but had resumed by 12:30 p.m., according to the Federal Aviation Administration

(FAA). Residual delays were expected.

Friday’s tremor was the largest felt in the city since a 2011 5.8-magnitude earthquake in Virginia that prompted evacuations of City Hall and other buildings and caused damage in Washington.

Earthquake magnitudes are measured on a logarithmic scale, which means the amount of energy released by a quake increases by more than 30 times for each whole number.

A 1989 earthquake that disrupted baseball’s World Series and rocked San Francisco was measured at a 6.9 magnitude, which would have made it more than 1,000 times more powerful than Friday’s quake.

Earthquakes in the eastern U.S. are felt across a far broader area because the bedrock is much older and harder, transferring seismic energy more easily, according to the USGS. The rocks in the western U.S. are younger and contain more faults that absorb earthquake energy.

Legend Biotech’s Carvykti cell therapy as an earlier treatment for patients with a type of blood cancer.

X challenges Brazil’s ‘forced’ order to block certain accounts

(Reuters) – X Corp, formerly Twitter, has been “forced by court decisions” to block certain popular accounts in Brazil and is prohibited from giving details of the order, the company said on Saturday.

X owner Elon Musk said in a post on the platform, that this order could lead to a total loss of revenue and shut down of the offices in Brazil, promising that he would legally challenge it where possible.

The social medial company said it is unaware why the blocking orders have been issued and is barred from giving details of the impacted accounts, adding that it is threatened with daily fines if it fails to comply.

“This judge has applied

massive fines, threatened to arrest our employees and cut off access to X in Brazil,” Musk said when referring to a user’s post on Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes’ “free speech crackdown.”

Last year, Moraes also ordered an investigation into executives at social messaging platform Telegram and Alphabet’s Google, who were in charge of a campaign criticizing a proposed internet regulation bill.

The bill put the onus on internet companies, search engines and social messaging services to find and report illegal material, instead of leaving it to the courts, and charge hefty fines for failures to do so.

FIJI GIRMIT FOUNDATION AUSTRALIA PRESENTS

GIRMIT REMEMBRANCE DAY Fiji Girmit Legacy Awards, Cultural Performances & Dinner

MAY 18 2024 • SATURDAY • 5 PM - 9 PM VENUE: LIFE & LEGACY CHURCH HALL UNIT 13/98 ANZAC AVE, HILLCREST 4118 Hosted By Deo Family Charitable Foundation Contact: Jitendra Deo 0411 798 012 namastejitendra@gmail.com

OUR SPONSORS

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024 — 45

Producers decide to trim Bade Miyan Chote Miyan by 8 minutes; re-edit in progress for a crisper cut ahead of Eid showdown with Maidaan

With just 3 days remaining for the release of Eid 2024 action thriller, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, it's all happening in the Indian Film Trade. In a sudden turn of events, makers decided to shift from full-day release on April 10 to a half-day release, and now the latest buzz indicates that Bade Miyan Chote Miyan team has decided to re-edit the film.

According to our sources, the decision was taken after a special screening that took place on Saturday night at Pooja Films Office. "The entire team loved the film, however, feel that there is a scope for crisper cut to make the film an ideal watch for the audience. The idea is to provide entertainment during the festive season of Eid, without any drag moments," a source told

Bollywood Hungama.

The re-edit work is in progress and the film is expected to be re-censored on Monday.

"Akshay Kumar, Vashnu Bhagnani, and Jackky Bhagnani are working on a crisper cut of BMCM with director Ali Abbas Zafar. The revised run-time of Bade Miyan Chote Miyan is expected to be around 2 hours and 35 minutes," the source told us further.

Bade Miyan Chote Miyan advance bookings open from tomorrow for the Paid Previews on 10th April, followed by a full-day release on 11th April.

Also Read: BREAKING: Bade Miyan Chote Miyan and Maidaan’s release plans changed; to now have paid previews from 6:00 pm on April 10

BREAKING: Bade Miyan Chote Miyan and Maidaan’s release plans changed; to now have paid previews from 6:00 pm on April 10

All eyes of the industry, trade and moviegoers are on the two big Eid releases - Bade Miyan Chote Miyan and Maidaan. The films were scheduled to be released on Wednesday, April 10. But in an unusual move, three days before the release, the makers of both movies have changed the release plans.

It has come to light that Bade Miyan Chote Miyan and Maidaan won’t have a full-fledged release on April 10. Instead, the films will have paid previews on the said date. In other words, the shows of the films will commence from 6:00 pm

onwards.

A multiplex official told Bollywood Hungama on condition of anonymity, “Just sometime back, we got a message stating that Maidaan’s shows should begin from 6:00 PM on Wednesday.

We have been asked to not play any shows before the said time and that bookings of all shows before 6:00 PM should be immediately stopped. Later, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan’s makers also made the same request. We’ll now refund money to all those who booked the pre6:00 PM shows of these films on April 10.”

46 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024

Kalki 2898 AD to get animated prelude on OTT; Prabhas dubs for it: Report The buzz around filmmaker Nag Ashwin's much-anticipated sci-fi extravaganza Kalki 2898 AD continues to soar as the film's release draws near.

Featuring a stellar cast including industry legends like Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, and Prabhas alongside leading ladies Deepika Padukone and Disha Patani, the movie promises an epic journey through time and space.

Adding to the excitement, a new development has emerged, further fuelling anticipation for the film. An animated prelude to Kalki 2898 AD is set to debut on OTT platforms, offering audiences a sneak peek into Nag Ashwin's futuristic world.

What's more, Prabhas has provided his voice for the entire animated segment,

lending his charisma to this unique endeavour.

According to a report in Pinkvilla, the decision to premiere the animated prelude digitally before the film's theatrical release marks a significant move.

“The prelude to Kalki will basically give the audience a glimpse into the world of this Nag Ashwin directorial. It’s a one-of-its-kind extended

video in the animated format, wherein Prabhas himself has dubbed for his character,” a source close to the development revealed, adding that it will begin with the animation and end with the introduction to the main characters.

“The digital player has paid a bomb to acquire the animated film and this will be a global premiere,

leading to the starting point of Kalki on the big screen.

This is the first time that an Indian Film will have a prelude, and the makers are sticking to their vision of making and marketing a film at global levels. The output of animation is also at par with the best in the world. The exact timelines for the release of Kalki Animated Prelude have been kept under wraps for now, but the makers are set to create history by one of its kind campaigns” the source added.

Kalki 2898 AD has already made waves on the global stage after its debut at San Diego Comic-Con. Directed by Nag Ashwin and produced by Vyjayanthi Movies, the film promises to be a multilingual entertainer, blending mythology with cutting-edge sci-fi elements.

Aparshakti Khurana starrer Berlin premieres at Red Lorry Film Festival Multi-faceted actor Aparshakti Khurana is all set to take the audience on a thrilling ride with his upcoming film Berlin.

Recently, Berlin made its way to the newest edition of the esteemed Red Lorry Film Festival, where it was exclusively premiered for the audience.

Khurana attended the premiere and received a heap of praise for his portrayal.

Readers may recall that earlier, Berlin made its world premiere at the Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles in October 2023 and was also

showcased at the 67th BFI London Film Festival and the Jio MAMI Mumbai Film

Festival 2023.

Aparshakti Khurana’s Berlin is set in 1993 in

New Delhi and written and directed by Atul Sabharwal of Netflix crime thriller Class of 83 fame. It narrates a story about a deaf-mute young man who is accused and arrested by the Bureau for being a spy. The film will be produced by Zee Studios, Sabharwal and Manav Shrivastav under Yippee Ki Yay Motion Pictures. It also stars Ishwak Singh.

Beyond Berlin, Aparshakti Khurana will also be seen in the horrorcomedy Stree 2, and a documentary titled Finding Ram.

Ektaa R Kapoor launches transwoman Kulu aka Bonita Rajpurohit in Love Sex Aur Dhokha 2 for the 1st time as lead, see behind-the-scenes Producer Ektaa R Kapoor and director Dibakar Banerjee's Love Sex Aur Dhokha 2 Ka Pehla Dose indeed gave a glimpse of a gripping and shocking tale. Amidst many things, one aspect that truly sent shockwaves to the audience was the appearance of a trans woman protagonist, a phenomenon on the big

screen brought for the first time!

Ektaa R Kapoor has given a chance to many new faces on the screen.

With Love Sex Aur Dhokha, released in 2010, Ektaa introduced many new faces to the entertainment industry. This time, Ektaa becomes the first producer to launch a transgenderwoman as a lead in

Release Date Movie Name Audience Score 10 APR 2024 Bade Miyan Chote Miyan 74 10 APR 2024 Maidaan 75 11 APR 2024 Ameena 34 12 APR 2024 Amar Singh Chamkila 67 12 APR 2024 Gauraiya Live 20 16 APR 2024 Silence 2: The Night Owl Bar Shootout 00

Love Sex Aur Dhokha 2.

Bonita Rajpurohit will be seen playing the character of Kulu in the film. The makers shared a video on their social media showcasing Bonita Rajpurohit's journey and how Bonita landed the role.

Director Dibakar Banerjee mentored Bonita in acting, and it must be said, Bonita gave the best.

Release Date Movie Name Audience Score 19 APR 2024 Love Sex Aur Dhokha 2 48 19 APR 2024 Kaam Chalu Hai 00 19 APR 2024 Do Aur Do Pyaar 50 26 APR 2024 Monkey Man 50 26 APR 2024 Ruslaan 47 30 APR 2024 Two Zero One Four 59

Call: (07) 3192 5188

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024 — 47

Hepatitis B DNA Testing What is a Hepatitis B DNA blood test?

• It is a blood test to check how much hepatitis B virus is in the blood.

recommended testing requirements for all people living with hepatitis B • This test along with other tests including liver function tests will show how well your immune system is controlling the virus, and how healthy your liver is.

• The test will also help the doctor to decide if you need medication to help your body control the virus and help

Who needs a hepatitis B DNA test?

• If you have tested positive to hepatitis B. What if you are a ‘carrier’?

• Yes you need the test.

• ‘Healthy carrier’ or ‘carrier’ are terms no longer used for hepatitis B. You either have the virus or you don’t.

How often should the test be done?

• At least once a year.

Even if your last test showed a ‘not detected’ result. This is free if you have a Medicare Card. Additional tests within

one year may result in a fee that will need to be paid by the patient.

• Some people may

require testing more often.

Your GP or Specialist will let you know what is appropriate for you and if a fee will apply.

Why is it important to have a hepatitis B DNA blood test very year?

• This is minimum

prevent the virus causing damage to your liver, such as scarring, cirrhosis and liver cancer.

Check with your doctor if you have had a test in the last 12 months.

If you would like more information about hepatitis B please visit our webpage www.eccq.com.au/bbv for information in your language. You can email us at health@eccq.com.au

Hepatitis, HIV/AIDS and Sexual Health Program Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland (ECCQ)

USES OF VASELINE TO KEEP MAGNIFY YOUR BEAUTY this altogether by spreading a thin layer of Vaseline over your chompers before applying your lipstick. The jelly will create an invisible barrier that the color won’t stick to.

Nimisha Modi

Hetvi Hair & Beauty 0412350013

Hey Girls, We’re always looking for beauty products that multitask but you can't get any multitask product and ended up to spend lots of money, so imagine our delight when we rediscovered a household staple that addresses so many of our daily issues.

We’re talking about Vaseline.

Vaseline is made from a mixture of mineral oils and waxes, which, create a protective barrier to help the skin heal and retain moisture. But it also does much more.

Whether you’re looking to soothe a cut, rock a glossy lid or a treat a sunburn, uses for Vaseline.

1. MOISTURIZE HEAD TO TOE After showering, apply it anywhere you see dry, flaky skin. For cracked heels, put on a pair of socks to lock in the moisture (and prevent future blisters later on).

2. Remove eye makeup Don’t have makeup remover at your disposal?

Just massage some Vaseline onto your lids and wipe that mascara away using a cotton pad.

3. Highlight your cheekbones There’s no need for a pricey highlighter when you have Vaseline right in your medicine cabinet. Pat some onto the tops of your cheeks to create a dewy, light-catching look. (Just be careful if you have oily skin– you don’t want to clog your pores.)

15. Create a flavored lip gloss Remember those funflavored glosses of your youth? Make your own by combining a powder-based food mix (e.g., Kool Aid) and some petroleum jelly to create yours.

4. Change the texture of your cosmetics Vaseline is a great way to transform your matte or powder products into creams. Just combine the loose pigments with the jelly to create your own custom cream eyeshadow, blush or tinted balm.

5. Counteract split ends Too much exposure to the sun, heat or chlorine from the pool can cause your hair to dry out, fast. Add a pinch of Vaseline to the ends for extra moisture and shine 6. Smooth down flyaway isn’t the only thing that can help you tame your brows. A small dab of Vaseline on a Q-tip will do the trick just as well.

7. Define your lashes No mascara, no problem.

Apply a little jelly on your lashes and comb through for a natural sheen.

48 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024

8. Avoid skin stains The worst part about an at-home hair or nail color is the mess it leaves behind on your skin. A light coating of petroleum jelly around your hairline or your cuticles will prevent any staining from dyes or polishes.

9. Prolong your perfume Give your fragrance lasting power by dabbing some Vaseline on your pulse points before spritzing on your favourite perfume.

10. Prevent selftanning streaks No one wants embarrassing streaks from a self-tanner. Cover any dry spots (i.e., around your knees, elbows and feet) to prevent an uneven application.

11. Create a DIY scrub A simple DIY for when your skin needs a little TLC: Mix one tablespoon of sea salt or sugar and a spoonful of Vaseline to make your

very own exfoliant. Put the paste on your lips (or anywhere on your body that needs smoothing) and gently massage before washing it off. Surprisingly smoother, glowing skin.

12. Keep shampoo away from your eyes No more wishing you made your dry shampoo last one more day. Just apply some jelly above your eyebrows and watch the suds repel off to the sides of your face and away from your eyes.

13. Remove chewing gum from hair Remember doing this as a child? Coat the gum and surrounding hair with a generous dollop of Vaseline and gently tug to remove the wad sans snags.

14. Keep lipstick off your teeth Rocking a bold lip is fun until you realize it’s been on your teeth all day. Prevent

16. SOOTHE AN ITCHY SCALP Reduce itching and dandruff by massaging a small amount of Vaseline into your scalp before washing your hair as usual.

(Note: Using too much can make it difficult to remove, so make sure you use no more than a dime-size amount; for a deeper cleanout add a teaspoon of baking soda to your shampoo.)

17. Groom facial hair Calling all moustache aficionados: A spot of Vaseline can keep your facial hair in check. Use it alone or combine it with some beeswax for added hold.

18. Hydrate your under-eyes In a pinch, a dab of Vaseline will help lock in moisture while you sleep so that you wake up to fresh peepers, even when you run out of eye cream.

19. Relieve irritation Whether you’re dealing with sunburn or razor burn, petroleum jelly can help. Tip: Stick the jar in the freezer beforehand and apply the cold jelly to your legs, forehead or any irritated

spots for instant soothing.

20. Block swimmer’s ear If you swim a lot and want to keep unwanted moisture out of your ears, try this: Coat two cotton balls with petroleum jelly, mould them to fit each ear and enjoy the rest of your swim.

21. CURE MINOR INJURIES The top use for Vaseline?

To heal any minor cuts and burns. Remember it’s best to clean and disinfect the area before application to prevent infections.

22. Relieve diaper rash If your baby is dealing with diaper rash, clean the area, pat skin dry and put Vaseline over the sore spots to relieve some of the sting.

23. Ease back pain No heating pad in sight?

Heat a scoop of Vaseline in the microwave until it’s warm (two minutes or so) before massaging some onto your back for a warming effect.

24. Help heal new tattoos Like minor cuts and burns, putting jelly on new tattoos can help speed up the healing process by keeping the area smooth and hydrated.

TO KEEP IN MIND Although it’s important to use it for external purposes only.

Apart from that, always remember to clean your skin properly and allow it to dry before application. With these simple precautions, you can enjoy the many benefits of Vaseline.

See you girls next month,

The University of Queensland’s Australian Women and Girls’ Health Research Centre warmly invites you to: You will hear from a wonderful guest speaker Dr Lata Sharma. With over 25 years of experience in gynaecology and reproductive medicine, Dr Sharma will bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her talk.

1.

You get to quiz and ask questions to our panel of experts. Bring all the questions you always wanted to - but maybe you didn’t get a chance or were too shy to ask. Send in your questions when you register (preferred) or later at the event, and it will be asked anonymously.

The panel of experts consist of: • Dr Gita Mishra, Director of the Australian Women and Girls’ Health Research Centre.

Areas of expertise - Life course epidemiology and

women’s health.

• Dr Jenny Doust, Clinical Professor, Research Fellow, and practising GP. Areas of expertise Primary health care and women’s health.

• Dr Sonia Shah, Research Fellow and Group Leader, Genomics Health.

Areas of expertise – genomics, genetics, and cardiovascular disease.

• Dr Lata Sharma, Clinician in obstetrics and gynaecology.

Areas of expertise management of menstrual disorders, chronic pelvic pain, abnormal pap smear, urinary incontinence. Reproductive medicine and surgery.

For information, contact – Reema via email at reema. naresh@uq.edu.au or phone 3346 5347.

What your Mumma didn’t tell you! A Multicultural Women’s Health Information Evening.

WHEN: 24 April, 7 pm to 9 pm WHERE: SANDGATE TOWN • Free community event.

• Light refreshments will be provided.

• An evening of learning and fun.

• A women-only event.

• A safe place to ask questions and learn.

REGISTER YOUR ATTENDANCE HERE:

Flu shots free for 2024 • Queenslanders can now book in for a free flu vaccination ahead of the 2024 flu season.

• From 1 January to 24 March, there have been more than 7,000 flu cases reported, with 713 admitted to hospital.

• Close to 1 million people received a flu vaccination during free programs in 2022 and 2023.

The Miles Labor Government is backing free flu vaccinations in 2024, as part of a $40 million commitment to ease pressure on hospital emergency departments this flu season.

The initiative also puts money back in the pockets of Queenslanders and their families.

All Queensland residents over the age of 6 months are eligible to receive the free vaccine from vaccination providers, including GPs and pharmacies. Bookings are now open.

The peak season for influenza varies from year to year, but typically starts in May and lasts until around October, with most cases typically recorded in August.

Queenslanders are encouraged to consider vaccination ahead of the peak season to ensure coverage over the winter months.

This program is an extension of those that ran during the 2022 and 2023 seasons and saw 912,000 Queenslanders take up the offer.

Influenza vaccine uptake dropped significantly in 2023 compared to the year prior, with just a third of Queenslanders being vaccinated against the flu.

Flu vaccination uptake was particularly low last year among children aged five years and under.

The 2024 Free Flu Vaccination Program, concluding on 30 September 2024, aims to encourage more Queenslanders to get vaccinated, while putting money back into the pockets of families who do not qualify for a free vaccination under the Commonwealth’s National Immunisation Program (NIP).

Call: (07) 3192 5188

The influenza vaccine can be co-administered with a COVID-19 booster dose.

Quotes attributable to the Premier: “Many people have vaccine fatigue after the pandemic, which means we are recording significant drops in vaccinations against things like the flu.

“While it might seem like the common cold, influenza can be deadly which is why it’s so important to get a flu shot every single year.

“Our free flu vaccination program is an easy way to get yourself covered ahead of winter without the barrier of cost, and has helped almost one million people get protected so far.

“It’s our hope that all eligible Queenslanders, especially the vulnerable, roll up their sleeve and get vaccinated. It’s the best way to protect yourself and those around you this flu season.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services Shannon Fentiman: “Every year, we see hundreds of hospitalisations due to influenza.

“Already this year, more than 700 people have been hospitalised due to serious illness from influenza and as of 25 March 2024, 83 Queenslanders are currently in hospital due to influenza.

“In 2023, Queensland recorded more than 74,000 flu cases, and sadly, 144 deaths were reported.

“Since the start of this year, 7,000 flu cases have been reported, as well as 11 deaths due to influenza.

“Getting vaccinated every year is the best way for people to protect themselves and their loved ones against

the flu.

“The Queensland Free Flu Vaccination Program has now been running for three consecutive years, helping to ease the financial barrier for all Queenslanders wanting to get vaccinated.

“We know nearly all people presenting to hospital with the flu last year had not been vaccinated, which puts significant pressure on our emergency departments.

“Making it free ahead of the peak flu season keeps people safe and ensures our health system is available for Queenslanders who need it most.

“The launch of this year’s free flu campaign follows the free Meningococcal B vaccine for eligible children and adolescents, as well as last week’s announcement of a free RSV immunisation program for more than 70,000 eligible infants and young children.

“We hope the combination of these free immunisation campaigns will lead to reduced hospital presentations and admissions this cold and flu season.”

Quotes attributable to Acting Chief Health Officer Dr Catherine McDougall: “The impact of influenza on the Queensland community every year is substantial.

“Influenza causes disruption in households, schools and workplaces, as well as increased demand on our health services.

“This year alone, we have seen hundreds of people already hospitalised with influenza, with people aged 65 and over most affected.

“These hospitalisations are concerning given we are still a few months off from

the peak flu season.

“We say this every year – but it really is so important to get vaccinated against the flu.

“Annual flu vaccination is the best way to protect against severe disease and complications.

“We hope to see more Queenslanders get vaccinated this year against the flu,

particularly pregnant people, children aged between six months and five years, and those aged 65 and over.

“I encourage every Queenslander to take advantage of a free flu vaccination, as this may also help break the chain of transmission.

“I also encourage Queenslanders to make sure

they, as well as their families and loved ones, are up to date with vaccination against other respiratory illnesses including COVID-19 and whooping cough.

“It’s also a timely reminder to continue to practice good hygiene habits, such as washing hands regularly and staying home when you’re sick.”

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024 — 49

APRIL 2024

MONTHLY Predictions Aries ( 21st March to 20th April )

Taurus ( 21st April to 21st May )

Gemini ( 22nd May to 21st June )

You will have positive momentum in your career however, but the impact of Mars will test your skills and patience. If you are in business, you may have many positive ideas within you but, your confidence may keep fluctuating at times. The impact of Jupiter will make you optimistic about future prospects. However, you may need to accept new challenges, suggests Mercury. The impact of South Node can hold you from accelerating the pace of progress. Mars will make this latter part of this month eventful for you on the career front. This can be an important month for your financial planning. Check and recheck your investments before making any vital decisions. Also, check on contracts that can legally bind you.

Reassess your strategies, stop carried away by soft options. However, expect a good amount of income under the benefic influence of Venus during the latter part of this month. At relationship front, Venus will pour blessings and you may be getting extravagant with your feelings.

It is time to look for fun, unusual and funny topics to talk over with friends, your mate. During the latter part of this month, there will be some disturbances along with some glorious romantic time. The month will remain favorable for your health and if you have been suffering from any health problems, road to recovery will be on the cards. Mars indicates that hectic life will take a toll on your body. You will have to take some time off your busy to balance your mental and physical health. In your studies, you will have good planetary support hence you may succeed in examinations as per your desires.

The month may begin with some disruptions as Mercury may bring some differences with your associates but the gradually it may bring a lot of energy. It will help you to improve your financial status.

The combined impact of Venus and Mercury suggest that your positive attitude will help you attract your beloved. Your intuition will lead you to do the right things in your studies. As the month advances, Jupiter will bring some new opportunities your way. This phase is likely to be favorable for making some important moves particularly if you are doing business.

The impact of planets indicates stable profits, including investments or passive income. Planets may force you to focus on improving your habits and switching to a healthier lifestyle. Mercury indicates that the latter half of this month can be the perfect time to really make a statement with your skills. However, you are likely to face some unexpected issues. So you need to stop thinking big and start dealing with some of the routine details. Mars can bring a turbulent phase in relationship. Gradually, you will see a shift towards holistic approach for physical and mental well-being. Jupiter will help you to get some opportunities for progress in your job or business during the latter part. But, rash decisions may land you in troubles, indicates Mars. Also, some stress related health problems cannot be avoided. Your studies may hamper as many other things happening in your life. Mercury indicates that the beginning of a new chapter in your career around the month end. If you are currently not involved in a relationship, there are good chances that Venus will bless you to find someone.

As the month begins, Mercury will bring positive momentum and likely to be favorable for making some important career moves. Change is in the air, if you are doing business. If you are bided by financial issues, then you should unleash your smart ideas and try to generate more gains from those ideas. The impact of Mercury may keep you in good cheer and improved health status as well as improvement in your studies. As the month advances, you will have the energy and practicality to make big strides, and due to the ample support of Mercury your planning can be just as brilliant particularly if you are doing business. North node may however provoke you to take some ambitious steps but you will require to maintain a balance in your financial planning. Saturn will force you to accept some facts in your relationship matters. The latter half of this month will help you doing well in your job and will be extra sharp when it comes to take any vital decisions. But around the end of this month you may have too much going on at your work place to get caught up in lengthy discussions that go nowhere. Gradually, you will start feeling financially secure and stable too but you will need good financial management. Venus will make you full of love that you will not be able to stop yourself from celebrating the good moments around the month end. This can be a hectic phase hence you need to adjust your lifestyle so that you can improve on the health status. You may gain positive remarks for your performance in your studies.

Cancer ( 22nd June to 22nd July )

Leo ( 23rd July to 22nd August )

Virgo ( 23rd August to 22nd September )

In the beginning of this month, you may feel blocked at your work place. Try to think big, with a perspective for the future. Mercury may also affect your financial status to quite an extent. Venus may bring amazing harmony in your love life and relationship matters.

The month may begin with some negative planetary influences for your health status. As the month advances, Mars will help you to resist any competition at your work place. To protect your interests, don’t argue with your boss.

North Node may make over ambitious and force you to take undue risk which can be very disruptive for your financial planning. Your interactions may become disruptive if you lose control over your emotions and temperament under the influence of Mars. You will have good planetary support and if you show your skills and talents to your mentors, you may have a better scope for growth in your studies during the latter half of this month. It is likely to help you to improve your health status as well. Also, it will be favorable for money flow for the majority of time. You need to act with patience in matters related to love and relationship as rushing to the conclusion under the influence of Mars may cause problems in the long run. Some problems in health are possible, perhaps mostly due to some worry and stress. Around the month end, don’t overload yourself, just plan efficiently and you will see better results in your career. You will have good inflow of money but all important dealings should not be undertaken due to complex energies of North Node.

As the month begins, Jupiter will make you able to strengthen your position in your career. If you are in business, boldly move forward without wasting time on unnecessary thoughts. You are expected to get many favorable opportunities for financial gains.

But Venus indicates that some misunderstandings may develop at this time. Mercury will demand you to focus on self-study and analyze your progress till date. As the month advances, the impact of Mercury will help you cope with any difficulties and large volumes of work. It may bring you some good earning opportunities, but it is important to consult an expert advisor before making any major deals or investment. Saturn may make you feel blocked in relationship. Let this period pass. The period around the mid of this month may help you to clear the air of uncertainties.

With a bit of extra efforts and perseverance, you can make progress in whatever you set your mind to in your studies. Your positive outlook towards your work and career goals may result in success during the latter half of month with the help of Jupiter’s blessings. You can look forward to new projects if you are in business. Saturn will require you to maintain a positive attitude, patience, and also do your research to meet your career goals. This phase may bring some good financial opportunities and growth potential for you. It will be a mixture of both good and bad events in your love relationship. There will be some fierce agreements and disputes with your beloved as a result of Mars’ impact. Stars will help you to improve the condition of your health.

You will look to get some encouraging opportunities in the beginning of this month. A good opportunity will come your way but don’t expect immediate results. The impact of North Node can be tricky hence you must refrain from making any new investments or promise financial involvement at this time. You will have to make conscious efforts to maintain cordial relations with your beloved ones as one or the other issue may keep bothering you this time around. The beginning of this week is going to be a little tedious for your studies. After some fluctuations in your health in the beginning, you will realize coming back to normal health. The combined impact of Mercury and Venus shall facilitate encouraging gains as the month advances. In spite of an increase in earnings and spare funds, you are likely to face problems in saving enough due to more expenses. The period around the mid of this month can be a very important and sensitive phase of your love life.

North Node can be damaging. Mercury will make you able to envisage a coming opportunity, from mid of the month onwards. But Mars indicates possible glitches in the financial matters. So, be extremely vigilant when it comes to financial matters. Conditions may begin to improve gradually. Your romantic bond may suffer a major blow due to the impact of North Node. Jupiter may bring ease of working in your job around the month end. Business prospects look encouraging but, business partnerships shall demand taking tough decisions. You may receive good planetary support to enhance your financial strength.

Libra ( 23rd September to 22nd October )

Scorpio ( 23rd October to 22nd November )

Sagittarius ( 23rd November to 21st December )

As the month begins, you will be able to make some action-oriented plans. As the days go by you will be clearer about how to achieve your goals and hence the pace of your financial progress is likely to start picking positive momentum. Refrain from reacting, driven by emotions. Otherwise, Mars may unnecessarily disrupt the harmony of your relationship, Lack of concentration may affect your performance but, you may soon realize your mistakes and may be able to recover your lost ground in your studies. As the month advances, Saturn will demand more efforts. If you are already working on some critical projects, you need to get ready to face a tough time around the middle of this month. Mercury suggests that you may need to review financial plans in order to enhance your financial strength. During the latter half, you will face some challenges at your work place due to the impact of South Node. The positivity of Venus is likely to bring happiness in your love life during the latter part of this month. Mercury will make you able to find new ways of learning and communicating or new systems of knowledge. But your health may get disturbed and you may have a lack of appetite which may result in weakness. If you are doing business, you must not make any hasty moves to expand the business around the month end. The impact of Venus will bring love in your life and if you are in committed relationship, this could the phase to take the relationship to the next level. You will be making all the efforts on increasing your fitness level and that is likely to lead you towards a more stable and healthy lifestyle as the month approaches its end.

At career front, you may feel much more supported as the month begins. If you are doing business, Mercury may demand you to take decision-related to major financial involvement after due deliberation. This could be a good time to invest in land or property. You and your beloved are likely to enjoy your fair share of love due to the blessings of Venus. Your fortune will support you to a greater extent in your studies. But as the month advances, the impact of South Node may bring challenging time at your work place. Mercury will eventually help you to manage the challenges efficiently. Venus may lead to an increase in positive energy, love, romance and intimacy around the mid of this month. During the latter part of this month you can expect better results as well. It will grant you good results for your health and fitness. You will witness positive change in your life style. The impact of Jupiter may bring new opportunities for progress in your career. Venus indicates that you will enjoy some wonderful moments with your beloved ones, friends and family. You will be able to focus on your academics and you should fare well in your examination due to Mercury’s support. Some daily stress can make you feel tired or low energy at times. The favourable impact of Jupiter may help you so around the month end your financial goal will be achieved with efficient handling of your resources. But the period around the month end is going to bring in a lot of disturbance in your studies. Your health status is likely to improve as you will be much more spirited and motivated around the month end.

In the beginning of this month, due to the impact of shadow planets, you are likely to face some fresh challenges and you may require hard and sustained efforts to get desired success in your career. Venus would bring some moments of amusement and bliss in your love life. Mercury may make you able to grasp complicated subjects very efficiently which may help you to make progress in your studies. There will be some periods in the beginning which might make you uncomfortable with your health and fitness level. If you are doing business, you may expect to get some good news regarding some pending deals around the mid of this month. However, it will not be smooth sailing as Saturn may force you to work hard to achieve what you have set out to. There may be gradual improvement in your relationship and greater clarity now. A lots of positive energy of Jupiter may help you make good progress in your education. It may also help you improve your stamina and fitness. Mercury will make you able to handle resources efficiently and likely to empower your strength during the latter half. You will earn good rewards and appreciations for your creativity. Better support of luck shall help you to strengthen your financial status You may have ample planetary support but carelessness or some misunderstandings created by Mars may make your relationship vulnerable. South Node is going to bring in a lot of disturbance n your studies. Jupiter will enhance your vitality during this week however, as the month progresses it may also make prone to some health problems.

Capricorn ( 22nd December to 20th January )

Aquarius ( 21st January to 18th February )

Pisces ( 19th February to 20th March )

Due to the favourable impact of Mars and Venus, things shall start picking up as the month begins. But you must refrain from making any new investments or promise a financial involvement at this time. Due to the impact of North Node, your interactions with your beloved ones may become somewhat difficult, It will be a time to review your past performance and to make necessary modifications in order to achieve better results in your studies. There will be some periods in the beginning of this month which might make you uncomfortable with your health and fitness level. Around the mid of this month, South Node may bring some obstacles and bottlenecks as well hence you cannot expect smooth sailing in your career. If you are doing business, you may also need to review plan during this phase. Saturn indicates some unexpected expenses might disturb your financial planning to an extent. Due to hectic work schedules and other commitments, you may be unable to spare enough time for your health hence your fitness level may drop to an extent. As you have some excellent favour of Venus and Mercury, your career will get positive momentum during the latter half. Now planetary influences may force you to understand the equations of your relationship in order to raise the level of understanding. This may be the right time for you to appear in any competitive exams and chances to excel are bright. The favourable impact of Mercury may help you gain eminence in your career around the month end. But some unexpected expenses may also disturb your financial planning, indicates South Node.

As the month begins, the impact of Mars and Mercury foretells happy times for professional activities. If you are in business, the strong cohesive forces of benefic planets will help you sail through some tough situations satisfactorily. Finances are boosted with the help of family and social connections. But you need to watch for over-sensitive reactions while dealing with some important relationship matters. There may be some problems in your studies. A good fitness routine coupled with a good diet plan will help you to maintain your health. As the month advances, Jupiter indicates that environment at the workplace will be peaceful and harmonious and you will be able to get things done generally very easily. If you are in business, the mid part of this month is likely to give you some scopes for your progression. Mercury indicates an exceptional week for finances. Jupiter indicates a promising phase for academic growth. You may have to face some health problems abruptly around the middle of this month. During the latter half, the impact of Venus may present a delightful picture for professionals. If you are contemplating a change of job to improve your career prospects, the period seems auspicious. Investments and speculations may prove beneficial. The planets will bring passion and love in your life. But if you want to take up higher education, you may face problems getting into the institutions of your choice. If you are suffering from any chronic ailments, such problems will require more attention.

As the month begins, Saturn may demand you to work for extended hours to cover up your acquired commitments. Also, emotions are often more volatile.

If you are in business, the pace of progress is likely to slow down in this phase. Gradually, Jupiter may bring clarity and you may now have the wisdom to implement your financial planning more efficiently.

Venus will bring positivity and optimism in your love life. Mercury will not be so advantageous for your studies and this will make your somewhat lazy. As the month advances, Jupiter will help you to think about development and put in action a long-conceived plan for achieving higher growth. Mercury is not very suitable for taking any important decisions related to investments around the mid of this month. Saturn will require patience as disruptions in your relationship due to ego will be quite possible during this period. Saturn presents a rather not so comfortable health proposition. So take better care and go for preventive measures. The latter half k seems good for your career advancement. However, Saturn will require more hard work and systematic planning for the desired success of your work. If you are in business, this can be a good time to coordinate your efforts and direct it towards accomplishments of your pending projects. Venus will support you hence it is the time to take decisive steps to take your relationship to the next level of harmony and joy. However, your wavering mind may become financially harmful and lead to economic losses so it is necessary to be careful.

50 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2020 — 51

TATA IPL 2024 Match 21 , LSG Vs GT - Match Report Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) won by 33 runs against the Gujarat Titans (GT) in their TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow. With this win, LSG have registered their first ever success against GT in the IPL history. Previously, these teams had played each other four times across the 2022 and 2023 seasons, with GT emerging victorious in all the games. With GT at 47 for no loss in five overs while chasing 164, LSG had their task cut out.

Openers Shubman Gill and B Sai Sudharsan had batted through the powerplay confidently. Sai Sudharsan, in particular, was in good touch as he raced away to 31. The opening partnership went past 50 and looked set to put GT on course for another win over LSG. That is when the hosts struck back.

It started with Gill being bowled by Yash Thakur in the sixth over. Kane

Williamson came in as an Impact Player, in place of Mohit Sharma. LSG’s spinners then helped put the pressure on GT. Following a few dot balls, Ravi Bishnoi induced an uppish shot by Williamson and he took a brilliant return catch in his follow through in the eighth over.

Krunal Pandya dismissed Sai Sudharsan in the next

over when the left-hander pulled one to deep squareleg. Soon after, the debutant, BR Sharath, was caught sweeping towards squareleg. GT had collapsed from 54 for no loss to 61 for four. Thereafter, the match was dominated by LSG’s bowlers. Pandya finished with great figures of three for 11 in his four overs.

However, the standout

for LSG was Thakur. The seamer had the added burden of responsibility after Mayank Yadav walked off the field having bowled the solitary over. Having dismissed Gill in the powerplay, Thakur returned to diminish any chances of GT’s recovery later in the innings. When he dismissed Vijay Shankar and Rashid Khan in the 15th over, LSG

had all but taken control of the game. At that stage, his figures read three for seven in two overs. There was a bit of a fight by Rahul Tewatia (30 off 25), but he had no support from the other end, and the asking rate kept soaring. Thakur capped off a successful day for LSG by dismissing Tewatia and Noor Ahmad in the 19th over to record his maiden TATA IPL fifer and sealed LSG’s victory.

At the half-way mark, most would have felt that GT were the favourites. Keeping in mind what happened in their match against Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the same venue, LSG won the toss and chose to bat first. GT made a few changes as Sharath replaced Wriddhiman Saha and Spencer Johnson came in place of Azmatullah Omarzai.

The innings started off with a bang for LSG with Quinton de Kock smashing a six in the first over off Umesh Yadav, picked high over fine-leg.

Umesh made a comeback soon after, as he had de Kock

caught at deep third-man.

In the third over, things got tougher for LSG as Umesh got the outside edge off Devdutt Padikkal, which found its way to first-slip.

At 18 for two, LSG needed stability. KL Rahul and Marcus Stoinis then pitched in and constructed an important partnership of 73.

Both kept rotating the strike and found the occasional boundaries – with Stoinis being the more aggressive out of the two. In the middle overs, GT’s spinners did well to restrict the flow of runs.

Noor bowled a parsimonious spell of none for 22 in his four overs. Rashid also contributed with one for 28.

Stoinis (58 off 43) was the top scorer for LSG. Towards the end, LSG were powered by cameos by Nicholas Pooran (32 not out off 22 balls) and Ayush Badoni (20 off 11). The highlight of that surge towards the end were the three sixes by Pooran, which helped propel LSG over 160. In the end, that proved more than enough for LSG.

DRUA CONTINUES WINNING Subway Olyroos’ squad for AFC U-23 Asian Cup Qatar 2024™ confirmed STREAK AGAINST ACT BRUMBIES IN SUPER W

The Rooster Chicken Fijian Drua Women’s side has continued their winning streak against the ACT Brumbies in the Buildcorp Super Rugby W competition.

This was following the 20-7 victory by the Mosese Rauluni coached side against the hosts in Canberra.

Drua flanker Sulita Waisega opened the scoreboard with a try after a clever kick from Jenifer Ravutia, followed by a successful conversion from fullback Luisa Tisolo.

Brumbies hit back to level the scores with a try from Tania Naden and a successful conversion after 25 minutes into the game.

Tisolo extended Drua’s lead after a successful penalty with five minutes left for the first half of the match to be over.

Drua led 10-7 at halftime.

The second half was in favour of the Drua after Atelaite Buna sprinted from their own 10 metre line for a try. Conversion also successful from Tisolo 17-7.

Tisolo secured another three points lead after kicking over the penalty in

52 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024

the 71st minute.

Drua managed to hold off Brumbies and walked away winners from the game,20-7.

The Fijian Drua Women remain undefeated against the Australian side in the competition, ever since 2022.

Subway Olyroos’ Head Coach, Tony Vidmar has named his 23-man squad for the AFC U-23 Asian Cup Qatar 2024™.

The squad will assemble in Doha from Monday, 8 April to begin preparations for the tournament – which doubles as AFC Qualifiers for the Paris 2024™ Olympics – with their opening fixture on Monday, 15 April.

Australia has been drawn in Group A alongside Jordan (15 April), Indonesia (18 April) and Qatar (21 April).

The Subway Olyroos enter the tournament off the back of a strong performance in the recent West Asian Football Federation (WAFF) U-23 Championship, in which they finished runners-up to Korea Republic in a penalty shootout.

The results during the WAFF capped off a productive 12-month period for the Subway Olyroos, with Tony Vidmar’s side securing 9 wins from 13 matches – including wins over Mexico, France, Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

The AFC U-23 Asian Cup Qatar 2024™ squad is filled with Isuzu UTE A-League talent including Jake Hollman (Macarthur FC), Nicolas Milanovic (Western Sydney Wanderers FC) and Nishan Velupillay (Melbourne Victory FC).

They will be joined by Sydney FC’s in-form defensive pairing of Jordan CourtneyPerkins and Jake GirdwoodReich, while Jacob Farrell (Central Coast Mariners FC), Ryan Teague (Melbourne Victory FC) and Marco Tilio (Melbourne City FC) will make the trip to Doha after missing the WAFF Championship due

to injury.

Jacob Italiano (Borussia Monchengladbach II) leads a contingent of Europeanbased players including Louis D'Arrigo (Lechia Gdansk), Garang Kuol (FC Volendam), Adrian Segecic (FC Dordrecht) and Rhy Youlley (KVC Westerlo) who have all been selected for the tournament.

“Everything we’ve done over the last 12-months has been focused on preparing for the Asian Cup,” Vidmar said.

“We set clear goals and expectations around what we want to achieve in Doha, and I’ve been really impressed by the way the group has taken ownership of that.

“There’s a strong desire and belief within this group that I believe will serve us well throughout the challenging moments that an international tournament of this calibre will present.”

Vidmar acknowledged the difficulties in gaining access to all eligible players for the AFC U-23 Asian Cup Qatar 2024™, however reiterated he has every confidence in the squad that will assemble.

“I’ve been open and honest with my disappointment that the Asian Cup falls outside of a FIFA Window, but we knew access to players would be a challenge and it’s something we’ve planned for in recent months,” Vidmar added.

“I just feel for those who’ve not been given the opportunity to join us, as representing your country at any level is something you never forget, and they would have benefited greatly from the experience.

“Our ability to prepare for this, build depth across the squad and foster important connections between our final squad gives me every confidence in this group and what they can achieve in Doha,” Vidmar concluded.

The Subway Olyroos are one of 16 teams who have qualified for the AFC U-23 Asian Cup Qatar 2024™, should they finish in the top three they will automatically qualify for the Paris 2024™ Olympics as the AFC representatives, while the fourth-best team will play an AFC-CAF play-off match for the final qualification spot.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024 — 53

Art Exhibition Celebrates Cultural Diversity at 2024 WAMCI Multicultural Festival

Brisbane, March 16, 2024 - The Queensland Taiwan Centre was adorned with a kaleidoscope of artistic expressions as it hosted the eighth STORIES Art Exhibition, a pivotal event within the 2024 WAMCI Multicultural Festival.

The exhibition, curated by World Arts & Multi-Culture Inc. (WAMCI), showcased the narratives of six extraordinary artists, celebrating cultural diversity and fostering unity through the universal language of art.

President Susan Yang, in her opening speech, welcomed esteemed guests and emphasized the significance of cultural diversity in shaping our global community. Yang's poignant words echoed the sentiments

of Maya Angelou, underlining the exhibition's core message of equality and appreciation for diverse perspectives. She expressed gratitude to the participating artists, whose works transcend boundaries, inviting viewers to connect on a profound level.

The ceremony commenced with a traditional Maori cultural performance, setting the stage for a journey through the rich tapestry of global cultures. MC Edward Lin guided the audience through the program, paying homage to the First Nations of Australia and inviting Aunty Peggy Tidyman to deliver an Acknowledgement of Country.

Distinguished attendees, including diplomats, elected representatives, community

leaders, and artists, were introduced, highlighting the event's significance within both local and international communities.

Notable figures such as William Fan, Director-General of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Brisbane, and Graham Perrett MP, Australian

Parliament Member for Moreton, graced the occasion with their presence.

Charles Ouyang, Director of Queensland Taiwan Centre, extended a warm welcome, commending the efforts of WAMCI in promoting cultural exchange and expressing appreciation

for the participating artists' contributions to the exhibition. Ouyang's remarks underscored the importance of cultural diversity and harmony, echoing the sentiment echoed throughout the event.

The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of certificates to the artists, accompanied by heartfelt stories behind their creations.

Each artist, including Shu-Hua Chen, Yumiko Kigoshi, Walter Archer, Wilray Price, Eve Wicks, and Marie Platt, shared their inspirations and artistic journeys, further enriching the audience's experience.

The ceremony concluded with a group photos, symbolizing unity amidst diversity, followed by light

refreshments. As attendees mingled, the exhibition hall buzzed with conversations, reflecting on the profound impact of art in bridging cultural divides and fostering understanding.

In the words of President Yang, "May the connections formed today contribute to a world where cultural diversity is not only acknowledged but cherished." The STORIES Art Exhibition stands as a testament to the power of art in transcending barriers and uniting humanity in celebration of our collective heritage.

The exhibition will run until Saturday 13 April, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a world of creativity and cultural exchange.

Celebrating Diversity: 2024 WAMCI Multicultural Festival Enchants Audiences at Calamvale Community College The vibrant tapestry of cultural diversity was on full display on Sunday 17 March at Calamvale Community College as the 2024 WAMCI Multicultural Festival presented an enchanting Multicultural Performance.

Attendees were treated to a spectacular showcase of music, dance, and tradition, uniting communities in celebration of Harmony Week.

The esteemed guests and dignitaries lent their presence to enhance the cultural celebration. Among them were diplomats including William Fan, Director-General of Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Brisbane, and Charles Ouyang, Director of Queensland Taiwan Centre. Their participation underscored the significance of international collaboration and cultural exchange.

Additionally, speeches delivered by Aunty Peggy Tidyman, the residing Aboriginal Elder, Melody Chen, Chair of WAMCI Multicultural Festival, Susan Yang, President of WAMCI, and Lisa Starmer, Principal of Calamvale Community College, resonated with attendees, emphasising the importance of diversity, inclusivity, and cultural appreciation in fostering harmony within the community.

The event commenced with a spirited performance by the Senior Taiko Team of Calamvale Community College, setting the stage for an afternoon filled with energy and excitement.

MC Edward Lin, CEO of the

Australia Taiwan Culture Foundation Ltd., extended a warm welcome to guests, acknowledging the traditional custodians of the land and inviting Aunty Peggy Tidyman to deliver an Acknowledge of Country.

President Susan Yang of WAMCI delivered a welcoming speech, expressing gratitude to the performers and sponsors who made the event possible. Yang highlighted the significance of cultural exchange and collaboration in fostering understanding and unity within the community.

She also commended Calamvale Community College for its longstanding partnership with WAMCI in promoting cultural events and educational programs.

Principal Lisa Starmer of Calamvale Community College echoed Yang's sentiments, emphasizing the importance of embracing diversity in education. Starmer highlighted the college's commitment to providing a safe and inclusive environment for students from all corners of the globe. With students from Israel, Palestine,

54 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2024

Ukraine, Russia, Africa, and beyond, the college serves as a microcosm of the world, fostering mutual respect and understanding among its diverse student body.

Director-General William Fan of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Brisbane, underscored the significance of cultural diversity and multiculturalism as invaluable assets and strengths shared between Taiwan and Australia. He emphasised that through art and cultural exchanges, we have the opportunity to share our cultures and stories, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation.

The program featured performances by six extraordinary groups, each representing a unique cultural heritage: 1.

Australian Taiwan Indigenous Association Inc.: Through traditional dances, folk songs, and music, the group transported the audience into the heart of Taiwan's indigenous tribes.

Their performance of "I am a Shepherd Boy" resonated

deeply with attendees, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Taiwan.

2.

Heilani Polynesian School of Arts: Captivating audiences with a diverse range of quality entertainment productions, educational classes, and free fitness initiatives, Heilani spreads Pacific Cultural Education globally through workshops and classes, enriching lives with the vibrant traditions of the Pacific Islands.

3.

Flamenco House Brisbane: Known for their extraordinary talent and expertise, the group transported the audience to the most beautiful regions of

Spain with their passionate interpretation of flamenco.

The mesmerizing music crafted by virtuoso guitarist Camaron de la Vega, combined with the power and beauty of dancer Alexis Mclean, created a performance that was nothing short of vibrant and passionate.

4. Ukaipo Kapa Haka Group: More than a performance group, Ukaipo is a kindred community of Maori, dedicated to sharing and strengthening connections to their vibrant culture. Drawing inspiration from their ancestors, the group embodied everyday Maori values and teachings through a mesmerizing performance

filled with song and tradition.

5. Alpenrosen Folk Dance Group: With over 50 years of performing in Queensland, the group showcased their dance and bell-ringing skills, sharing the German cultural experience with lively dances and bell ringing.

6.

Tensui Australia: Dedicated to bringing Japan's famous festival dance, Awa Odori, to the Australian stage, Tensui encapsulated the authentic grace, energy, and centuries-old customs of this traditional dance from Tokushima, Japan.

One performance that truly touched the hearts of many was the Australian Taiwan Indigenous Association Inc.'s rendition of "From this Moment." This mesmerizing piece delved into the Bunun culture, reflecting the challenges faced by tribal youth in adapting to urban life while cherishing their traditional tribal culture. As the performers brought the spirit of Bunun warriors to life through traditional songs and contemporary cross-border music, many in the audience were moved to tears, deeply affected by the emotional depth and authenticity of the performance.

The event concluded with a heartfelt certificate presentation, honoring the dedication and talent of all performers.

As attendees gathered for a group photo, the spirit of unity and celebration lingered in the air, a testament to the power of multiculturalism to bring communities together.

“Holi in the House” hosted by the Australia India Business Council celebrating the Launch of NSW Parliamentary Friends of India

"Holi in the House" hosted by the Australia India Business Council celebrating the Launch of NSW Parliamentary Friends of India, 20 March 2024 “The NSW Parliamentary Friends of India will encourage collaborations, fostering of relations and friendships between the people of both countries,” says Chair Mr Warren Kirby MP. The Australia India Business Council (AIBC), the leading bilateral business chamber, hosted the celebration of Holi, India’s iconic festival of colours and the launch of the NSW Parliamentary Friends of India at the NSW Parliament House on Wednesday, 20 March 2024.

Welcoming

Parliamentarians, businesses, event partners, AIBC members and the diaspora, Mr Irfan Malik, AIBC National Associate Chair and NSW President said, "It is the first time that Holi is being celebrated at the NSW Parliament and the launch of the NSW Parliamentary Friends of India is an acknowledgement of the strong connections between NSW and India.”

The Hon Prue Car MP, Deputy Premier representing The Hon Chris Minns MP, Premier of New South Wales, said “This launch is very special and important for the NSW Government. Not only by the increasing number of migrants from India, but also their contribution to NSW makes it special. It is also special because the launch

coincides with the Holi Festival of Harmony.”

The event was organized by the AIBC, with bipartisan support including The Hon Mark Speakman MP, Leader of the Opposition; The Hon Steven Kamper MP, Minister for Multiculturalism; Dr S. Janakiraman, Consul General of India, Sydney; Mr Warren Kirby MP, Member for Riverstone & Chair of the NSW Parliamentary Friends of India; Mr Gurmesh Singh MP, Member for Coffs Harbour & Co-Chair of the NSW Parliamentary Friends of India; The Hon Scott Farlow MLC, Liberal Party NSW; Councillors, Members of Parliament, Community leaders and media.

Mr Kirby formally launched the NSW Parliamentary Friends of

India and said, “In recent years the social, economic and defence relations between Australia and India had grown tremendously.

The launch at the time of Holi was significant as the festival augurs new beginnings.

NSW Parliamentary Friends of India will encourage collaborations, fostering of relations and friendships between the people of both countries.”

Dr Janakiraman, Consul General India, Sydney said, "Our relations are one of the best. The visits of many trade delegations from Australia to India, and from India to NSW, signify the growing economic partnership and the establishment of the NSW Parliamentary Friends of India will further enhance our friendship."

Ms Jodi McKay, AIBC National Chair and Chair of the CEO Forum, congratulated the great initiative of the Parliamentary Friends of India, and said that NSW contributes significantly to the economic and trade relations with its resources, contributions to renewable energy and education sectors.

Ms Poornima Menon, AIBC NSW Management Committee member delivered the vote of thanks.

About the AIBC The Australia India Business Council (AIBC) is the leading business chamber dedicated to promoting the bilateral trade and investment relationship between Australia and India.

AIBC was established in

1986 by the then governments of Australia and India. It now has chapters in six Australian state capitals and a presence in India.

AIBC helps to shape policy and advocacy for promoting the bilateral business corridor, raising awareness about AustraliaIndia trade and investment and facilitating business to business outcomes.

AIBC works closely with the federal and state governments in Australia and India, as well as with industry bodies, the diaspora, academia, and the community and media.

As a membership-driven, not-for-profit organisation, AIBC’s members and partners include some of the most respected names in business, industry and academia.

New Mayor and Councillors eager to get to work in Logan

New City of Logan Mayor Jon Raven and 12 Councillors have been sworn in for the next four-year term.

The elected members took their Declaration of Office at a ceremony in front of family and friends at the Logan Entertainment Centre this morning.

Two new Councillors – Nathan St Ledger (Division 4) and Paul Jackson (Division 5) – join 10 Councillors from the 2020-24 term, who were either successful in the recent local government election or returned unopposed.

Mayor Raven said his priorities for the next four years include changing the city’s reputation to bring investment, jobs and opportunity for Logan Call: (07) 3192 5188

residents.

“We are the youngest, most diverse and fastest growing city in the state,” Councillor Raven said.

“This is our moment. It's not once in a lifetime, nor once in a generation.

“This is it. Logan is ready to launch.”

Cr Raven said he wanted to encourage the brightest minds to help build the best city possible.

“Thirty per cent of our population is aged under 18, but they are 100 per cent of our future and they deserve local opportunities for work, study and fun,” he said.

The elected members for 2024-28 are: • Mayor Jon Raven

• Councillor Lisa Bradley (Division 1) • Councillor Teresa Lane (Division 2) • Councillor Mindy Russell (Division 3) • Councillor Nathan St Ledger (Division 4) • Councillor Paul Jackson (Division 5) • Councillor Tony Hall (Division 6) • Councillor Tim Frazer (Division 7) • Councillor Jacob Heremaia (Division 8) • Councillor Scott Bannan (Division 9) • Councillor Miriam Stemp (Division 10) • Councillor Natalie Willcocks (Division 11) • Councillor Karen Murphy (Division 12)

“The Council chosen by our community is the right combination of experience, enthusiasm and fresh ideas and we want Logan to live up to its potential,” Cr Raven said.

“I believe that by working together we can achieve great things for our city and our community.”

A Post-Election Meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 10 at 10am for Council to appoint the city’s Deputy Mayor, Standing Committee Chairs and other representative positions, as well as adopting a calendar of meetings for 2024.

The meeting will be livestreamed at youtube. com/user/logancitycouncil

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