August 2023 - Online edition

amit shah, urge

iN riot-hit maNiPur

A delegation of leaders from Meghalaya, led by Lok Sabha MP Agatha Sangma, met Union home minister Amit Shah on Friday to share their views and deliberate on the continuing crisis in Manipur, people familiar with the matter said.

Besides Sangma, Rajya Sabha MP Dr Wanweiroy Kharlukhi, a Lok Sabha MP from Tura, the contingent also consisted

of Manipur’s Kshetrigao Assembly MLA, National People Party’s general secretary (political affairs) Sheikh Noorul Hassan and Kakching Assembly MLA Mayanglambam Rameshwar Singh.

Committed to seeking restoration of peace and tranquillity in the northeastern has been battling ethnic strife since May 3, the team, in the

meeting put forth a series of proposals to the Shah seeking his intervention in restoring peace and stability in Manipur.

The members earnestly sought the home minister’s personal intervention as they also underscored the importance of active collaboration with the central government to achieve this critical goal.

CONTD. ON PG 50

From the Publisher

WELCOME to our August edition; August is here, and so are the Westerlies, Ekka and India Day Fair. This year we are seeing a large influx of Dandiya and Garba teams coming down after the lockdown. This year would have to be a record-breaking year for these performances. The Royal Queensland Show (Ekka) is Queensland's largest and most loved annual event, attracting, on average, 400,000 people. Run by the RNA and staged at its original birthplace, the Brisbane Showgrounds, the Ekka brings the country and city together for a true celebration of agriculture.

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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)

• Awadhesh Sharma

• Peter Lane Rai

• Shailendra Singh

• Ravi Vastrad

• Amod Datar

• Ashok Attri

• Gagan deep Tandon

• Brian Sullivan (Photography)

• Rajesh Chand

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. While every effort has been made to capture the true likeness to colour printing is an art and therefore we cannot guarantee an exact matching of product to image. Refund / Credit is not given as a result of the previous mentioned.

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Brisbane Indian Times, PO Box 197, Taigum Qld 4018. Ph: (07) 3192 5188 Fax: 3865 5864 / prod@indiantimes.com.au

From the Editor:

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Brisbane Indian Times Suite 5, 2281 Sandgate Road Boondall Qld 4034 or E-mail: prod@indiantimes.com.au

The Ekka showcases the best of Queensland, attracting more than 21,000 competition entries from woodchops to giant vegetables, 10,000 animals from beef cattle to cats and dogs, world-class live entertainment, award-winning food and wine, carnival rides and show bags, family shopping, educational activities and much more. The iconic show has been running since 1876 and is full of traditions, a unique atmosphere and childhood memories that have been passed down through generations of families.

The second iconic event in August is GOPIO Queensland’s India Day Fair, launched in 2011. Below is an extract from the president's report as presented on 1st November 2011:

“India Day Fair was held on 14 August 2011 at Roma Street Parklands Amphitheatre. GOPIO Queensland successfully organised its first India Day Fair on 14th August 2011. The venue was

chosen for its unique location and the perfect setting for showcasing local talents in a performance arena. The whole event was pitched on the performance angle rather than a festival.

The audience could sit down and view the performances from anywhere in the amphitheatre and, for that matter, from the stall area as well. The venue did come with its challenges. It is not an accessible venue to facilitate any event, but the benefits greatly outweigh the little obstacles and challenges.

GOPIO Queensland introduced an Annual Lifetime Achievement Award this year. The committee trialled a nominationbased award; GOPIO Qld Executive Committee may review this.

The GOPIO 2011 Lifetime Achievement Award recipient is Dr Ashim Majumdar, a well-known public relations champion among the members of the various Indian communities, politicians, and friends in Queensland. He is a lifetime leader in living memory, and it has been well

demonstrated through the following leadership positions in various community services organisations such as ex-president of Bengali Society of Qld, Patron of Bengali Society of Qld, ex-president of FICQ and Deputy President of Vedanta Centre of QLD.”

So, the above is an extract from the president's report of 2011.

It will be in its thirteenth year this year; there have been many challenges over the years. Nevertheless, GOPIO Queensland has been able to host the event year after year. Still, this year GOPIO Queensland could not secure a Queensland Government grant as the previous committee needed to apply in time, which posed s financial burden on the committee. The last funding arrangement was on a rolling basis but expired in 2022, and the committee had to reapply.

On a lighter note, I was thrilled to visit Fiji for a few days and attend the Khalsa College reunion in Ba, Fiji. The event was mainly arranged via virtual meetings under the leadership of Qamar Azad of Indonesia; attendees came from Fiji, the USA, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia.

I was honoured to be the MC for the event, Brisbane Indian Times donated the name badges and assisted with Banner artwork etc. For an event that was mainly planned from overseas, it was a resounding success.

Locally I must congratulate Shen Flindell for a very successful Ashu Babu Memorial concert, the longest one. It could have been a Sangeet Mela, it was well presented, and the entire concert was a pleasure to witness. Brisbane Indian Times was once again a proud sponsor, and I was honoured to have presented the certificates to the participants.

Queensland Treasurer has been busy speaking to the community, and this year I listened to his talks on three different occasions, including Minister Leanne Linnard’s business networking and Joe Kelly MP’s business breakfast.

Congratulation to Amritpal Singh and Harlin Kaur on a beautiful wedding at Brisbane Sikh Temple, followed by a lavish reception and Kedron Wavell RSL in Chermside.

Congratulations to Shyna Lal on turning eighteen; I enjoyed being the MC for your milestone birthday in Melbourne.

Congratulation to DJJS on a very successful Mata Ki Chawnki in Gold Coast; it was a pleasure to join the incredible musicians and singers with my Octapad.

On this note, I like to say goodbye, until next month. Happy reading,

—Umesh Chandra OAM Publisher

the Pathway to Permanent residence: a guide to the Permanent residence (skilled regional) Visa (subclass 191)

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NO MINIMUM INCOME REQUIREMENT:

It is important to note that the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa (subclass 191) does not have a minimum income requirement. Currently, there is no legislative instrument in place specifying a minimum income threshold for this visa category.

INCOME ASSESSMENT REQUIREMENTS:

To be eligible for the subclass 191 visa, primary applicants must provide notices of assessment issued by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) for three income years out of the five years of their eligible visa. If you have already lodged your application, it is vital to verify that your submission includes these three notices of assessment.

GOVERNMENT COMMITMENT:

The Australian Government is dedicated to streamlining the migration system in the national interest. It aims to assist migrants who are already living and working in Australia, contributing with their skills to the nation's growth and prosperity. The government provides clarity on their prospects for permanent residence through various visa pathways, including the subclass 191 visa.

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For more detailed information and to stay updated on the latest guidelines and requirements, we encourage you to visit the official website of the Department of Home Affairs: Immigration and Citizenship (homeaffairs.gov.au). Alternatively, you may seek personalized advice from Migration Guru to address specific concerns related to your situation.

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With our vast experience and skills, we are able to provide accurate migration or legal advice based on our clients’ personal circumstances. If you would like more information regarding your visa eligibility, applicable visa subclass, or next steps, Migration Guru can assist you in navigating this process. Unlike many other firms, the First Consultation at Migration Guru is completely free so that clients can get fair, accurate and upfront advise on their visa prospects.

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million people, traces are apparent of influence by various cultures around the rim of the Indian Ocean. Maldivian culture, craft and traditions have been shaped by the surrounding island environment and the seas.

beautiful island country has an average altitude of 1.8 metres: its highest point Villingili Island, is only 2.3 metres above sea level.

By Rama Gaind

THERE is a certain magic about the Maldives that’s enticing ... and it certainly offers the sunny side of life!

With its rich history and diverse landscapes and destinations, this is one of the best island destinations in the world, with numerous atolls, clear waters, pristine beaches and dive sites filled with marine life. While historians believe the nation – which spans across the equator – was populated well over 2,500 years ago, the Maldives comprise 1,192 islands, stretching along a length of 871 kilometers.

An archipelagic state in South Asia, situated in the Indian Ocean, it lies southwest of Sri Lanka and India, about 750 kilometres from the Asian continent's mainland. Home to more than half-a-

There’s never a dull moment here. A renowned diving destination, this is where you enjoy the white sand beaches, beautiful atolls and crystal-clear waters with rich aquatic wildlife. You’ll find giant whale sharks in the area, especially around the reefs near Sun Island. Find these gentle giants and other shark species in Rangali Island and Hanifaru Bay.

Coral reefs are the foundation of the islands and the Maldives has one of the most delicate environments anywhere on the planet. Speaking of Maldives’ thriving marine biodiversity, its seas are home to five of the seven marine turtle species in the world. You can see loggerheads, leatherbacks, Olive Ridley turtles, green turtles and hawksbill turtles when you visit popular dive sites in the country.

Less than a fifth of Maldives’ island population is inhabited and it’s the world’s flattest country. This

Unlike most ‘white sand’ beaches that have yellowish sand, the beaches of Maldives have true white sands, made of coralline, which are rare and only present in around five per cent of beaches worldwide.

josephdass@optusnet.com.au

DEAR READER, it is our joy to bring you the word of God. Today I want to talk to you about how God can use you with your limitations. No one is perfect. That

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Alternatively, across the lagoon at Hard Rock Hotel Maldives, this iconic musicthemed resort has many accommodation packages, including web offers. Go online to seek out the best alternatives for you.

Nestled in the South Malé Atoll, just 15 minutes from Velana International Airport, Crossroads Maldives is a ‘one-stop,

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Partake of environmental and cultural activities, discover an 800-metre beachside boardwalk which is lined with cool cafés, refined restaurants and upmarket boutiques. Book soon and have yourself an amazing tropical sojourn!

Peace With your limitatioNs

means everyone has faults, weaknesses, and imperfections. If you are not careful, you can fall into the trap of blaming your flaws and comparing yourself with other people. Some people think they cannot do great things because they are of a different nationality, or they are a different complexion, or perhaps a different stature.

The good news is that God will use you as you are. And God can use you while you are changing and growing.

In the scripture we read (Luke 1v26-35) when Jesus was to be born, the angel Gabriel came to Mary and told her that she would have

a baby. Mary was troubled at this announcement, for she was not married. The natural way was a person would get married and then have a baby. The angel told Mary not to be afraid. That God could bring about a miracle with the limitations Mary had. Then Mary said, "Let it be to me according to your word."

HERE ARE 3 THINGS WE CAN LEARN FROM MARy.

1. Your limitation is God's opportunity. When we have a limitation, it is easy to start looking at what we don't have, what we didn't get, or who we don't know. Mary was looking at the limitations she didn't

have—a man to complete her so she could have a baby. Life is sometimes like that. You know, you are meant to do great things. You know there is greatness in you. You have dreams. Then, come to a place and get stuck. Mainly because you think that you don't have the education, the qualifications, the resources, and the connections. Yet the angel said, "Mary, you are going to have a baby." Her limitation didn't stop Mary from having a baby.

2. It may be your limitation, but it's not God's limitation. You must realize that when God made you, He declared that everything,

including your gifts and limitations, is perfect. What you thought was a problem or that you were missing something is no surprise to God. God can complete what you lack. Mary thought that not having a husband was a limitation. But it was not God's limitation. The angel said, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, that Holy One Who is to be born will be called the Son of God.

3. Only when we begin seeing our limitations as gifts, rather than hindrances can we better understand God's goodness in his plan

for us. You say, "I wish I had more of their gifts, someone else looks, their strengths." Your limitation is not who you are. You are who God says you are. Finally, when Mary realized that God could use her with her limitations, she declared, "Let be to me according to your word." We all have weaknesses, faults, and things that we wish were different. Yet God didn't choose you because you are perfect. He chose you because He knows what you can become. So do not be against yourself. Your limitations do not stop you from God's plan for your life. God bless you.

Pastor Suresh Dass Joseph

allowing the Feminine to Flow

TODAy, for the first time, humanity is at a point where we can relax our survival attitudes a little bit. If we relax our survival instincts, you will see, naturally the feminine becomes very significant. But unfortunately, modern societies are not relaxing their survival instinct; whether it is a car or a home or whatever, we are just raising the bar.

Right now the whole world is ruled by economics. When money is the only important thing, the masculine becomes the most dominant part of our social structure. Unfortunately, we are moving in that direction. The feminine is being totally obliterated in many ways, especially in Western societies, and it is beginning to happen in India also.

Everybody is ambitious and wants to achieve success. But that is a very foolish way. There is a way to achieve success without being fired by ambition. If you are concerned about everything around you, you will naturally do your best; you will not hold back anything. That is a woman’s way of operating. That is the best way to operate in the world.

Masculine and feminine should be looked

e verybody is A mbitious A nd wA nts to Achieve success. b ut th At is A very foolish wAy.

at in terms of two qualities, not in terms of male and female. If the feminine has to really flourish, if it has to flow, we need to create a society where our values are more spread out to all aspects of life. When music, art, love, care, when all these things become as important as economics, then women have as much of a role or even more of a role in life than men. A home, a social structure, a nation, or humanity as a whole is not complete unless the feminine also finds full expression. You must make this happen in your own lives, around you and in society. Otherwise, we will live very incomplete, lopsided lives.

If the feminine found a better expression on this

planet, generally people would smile more, be a little more happy, a little more loving; life would be a little more beautiful. After all, it is in pursuit of human wellbeing that all activity is done. But that has been completely

forgotten because that is the way of the masculine is to go somewhere without paying much attention to what is here and now. The feminine is not trying to go anywhere; the feminine is happy where it is. If these two aspects are in balance,

we will go somewhere but we will also enjoy where we are right now. That is what needs to happen in the world.

Ranked amongst the fifty most influential people in India, Sadhguru is a yogi, mystic, visionary an 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.

t here is A wAy to Achieve success without being fired by A mbition.

historic Khalsa college reunion held in Ba Fiji islands

HISTORy was created on the twenty-ninth of July 2023, when Khalsa College Ba, Fiji's first reunion, was organised.

Qamar Azad, the organiser in chief, said, “Six countries, zoom meetings and finding mutual time in the multiple time zones was a challenge in itself. Many people have asked Qamar, why did you do it? What was the passion behind this?

He explained that in 1979 he was sent home for nonpayment of fees; he went home and started working on his father's farm, and two weeks later, Mr Kanwal had gone to their house and convinced Qamar's dad that Qamar belonged to Khalsa College and not their farm, after a twohour conversation Qamar’s dad said to Qamar, if you want to study, pack your bags and go with Mr Kanwal, so for six months Qamar stayed with Kanwal family, Qamar further said that what he is today due to that gesture by Mr Kanwal, so all he is doing is encouraging everyone to give back to the college, his idea of bringing everyone together was to remind everyone of the foundation that Khalsa College had laid for them.

Mr J.S.Kanwal was the principal of Khalsa College in Ba from 1960-1987, lecturer in English for Business Communication at Fiji Institute of Technology from 1987-1991, Fiji Indian Cultural Centre administrator from 1993-2003, former chairperson of the Multi-ethnic Cultural Council in Ba, and a Justice of the Peace. His novels include Savera, Dharti Mere Mata, Saat Samundar Paar, Karvat, The Morning, The New Migrant and A Love Story: 1920. His non-fiction works are Mera Desh, Mere Log; A Hundred Years of Hindi in Fiji; Walking. Mr Kanwal also wrote Hindi poems such as Yaddon ki Khushboo, Kuch Pattey Kuch Panchurian, Dard Apne Apne, An Anthology of Hindi Poets of Fiji, and Many Rainbows of Love. The short stories he wrote are Hum Log and An Anthology of Hindi Short Stories from Fiji.

Apart from all these, he regularly contributed articles to The Fiji Times and the vernacular newspaper Shanti Dut. Mr Kanwal was the president and secretary of the Fiji Principals Association, a member of the Fiji Teachers Union, the Commonwealth Council for Educational Administration, and past president and trustee of the Sikh Educational Society of Fiji.

Sairaj Mohamad (coorganiser) of Brisbane Australia invited Umesh Chandra OAM to the organising committee and asked Umesh to be on the programming committee. Later, Umesh was asked to be the MC for the event.

The event at Kshatriya Hall in Ba, Fiji, was fully subscribed; Umesh Chandra OAM began the program with a silent prayer where everyone prayed silently. The speakers for the

night included Bayant Singh – President Khalsa College Management Committee, Former president of Lautoka Sikh Temple and Fiji Sikh Association.

Jack Datta – one of the first students from 1959, Born in Wailailai Ba in 1947Went to Wailailai Methodist Mission school, where his dad, Mr Barakat Masih, was a Headmaster. Jack gave a detailed history of the College.

Haji Mohammed Riyaz (OC, Ba Police), ex-Khalsa Student. Harpreet Singh Eldest, son of Mr and Mrs Kanwal, delivered and emotional speech and presented a selection of books chosen and wrapped by Mr Kanwal to Ahmed Bhamji.

Next speaker, Shelly –Ex-Khalsa student from California, Shalen Sandhu – also known as Shelly, originally from Matniqara, student Khalsa Primary 1973 –1978 and Khalsa College from 1978 – 1980, representing her classmates of the same period.

The chief guest was HON.

CHARAN JEATH SINGHMinister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry

Charan Jeath Singh is a businessman, politician, Cabinet Minister, Former Mayor of Labasa and the founder of the CJS Group of companies.

Musa Ismail Advisory Boards of Al Noor Masjid, Islamic Cultural Centre of BC and Guilford Islamic Centre Projects delivered the keynote address.

He attended Khalsa College from 1963 to 1966. He represented Khalsa in Oratory and Debate competitions, played field hockey and soccer, and was the school prefect.

He graduated with an “A” in the Senior Cambridge exams and won a scholarship to attend Natabua College in Lautoka. He was among the first locals hired as South Pacific Sugar Mills staff.

Other Speakers included Susheel Sanga from Melbourne, Australia, and Meena Pratap from Wellington, New Zealand.

The entertainment was by local singers in the Fiji Indian Genre, arranged by Premila Prasad.

Logo and poster design was by Brisbane Indian Times, and banner printing was by Feroz Aswat of Auckland Copiers and Solutions. Umesh and Usha Chandra donated the custommade reunion badges.

Catering, decoration, and sound were outsourced to local providers, and the team managed registration and minor embellishments.

On Sunday, 30 July, the attendees were invited to visit Khalsa College, and a special “Ardaash” was arranged in the college Gurudwara; the college management had arranged for morning tea for all attendees. Thanks to everyone who contributed to a successful and historic Khalsa College reunion.

Brookwater: Lifestyle within Springfield City

THE Dress Circle, Brookwater is attracting buyers from across the nation tempted by the lifestyle offered within Springfield City and its “fiveminute neighbourhood”.

The architecturally designed homes are nestled around the first nine holes of the Brookwater championship golf course, designed by Queensland sports legend Greg Norman. And it boasts the strong community and family feel.

“We are receiving record levels of interest from discerning buyers recognising that Brookwater is a premium lifestyle destination,’’ General Manager of Brookwater

Residential, Narendran Sinnathamby said.

“Springfield City sets the standard for world-class master-planned urban environments in the 21st century and has become a blueprint for nationbuilding.

“The area boasts outstanding schools, and state-of-the-art health facilities, and is now home to the Brisbane Lions AFL Club. Everything you need is within reach.”

Many of Springfield City’s 22 early learning centres, 12 schools and a university campus are within minutes of each other, enabling residents to move easily around their

w e A re receiving record levels of interest from discerning buyers recognising th At b rookwAter is A premium lifestyle destin Ation,’’ g ener A l mA n Ager of b rookwAter r esidenti A l, nA rendr A n s inn Ath A mby s A id. “s pringfield c ity sets the stA ndA rd for world-cl A ss m A ster-pl A nned urb A n environments in the 21st century A nd h A s become A blueprint for n Ation-building.

modern city. The education offerings are complemented by the

pillars of health and IT in a city that celebrated its 30th birthday last year.

maha sinnathamby honorary Doctorate

Springfield City’s design will easily allow for the current population of more than 50,000 to expand to more than 140,000 over the coming decades.

“We still have so much to develop in Springfield City and The Dress Circle presents a wonderful opportunity for buyers who want premium lifestyle in a modern city,” Mr Sinnathamby said.

For more information go to www. brookwaterresidential. com.au call 07 3814 5177 or visit the Sales Centre at 3 Birchwood Cresent, Brookwater open 7 days from 9am – 5pm.

Visionary receives uQ’s highest honour

ONE of Queensland’s most successful businessmen has acknowledged the lessons learned in tough times as he received the University of Queensland’s highest honour.

Maha Sinnathamby AM has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate for his service as a community leader, entrepreneur and the driving force behind the development of Springfield city, southwest of Brisbane.

Mr Sinnathamby is the Chairman of Springfield City Group and Patron of the GOPIO Queensland chapter.

“This is a tremendous honour and I thank the University of Queensland,” Mr Sinnathamby said.

“I had the privilege of addressing graduates at a recent ceremony. I told them how failure had been one of my best motivations.

“During my engineering degree at university, my father wrote to me and told me that the darkest night brings the brightest dawn. He was right.”

The University of Queensland praised Mr Sinnathamby for his “commitment to philanthropy, community welfare and initiatives that uplift and empower communities”.

The university singled out Springfield City Group’s passion for education through its 22 early learning centres, 12 schools and a university campus in a city that now features more than 50,000 residents.

Mr Sinnathamby was awarded the Honorary Doctorate at the University of Queensland’s mid-year graduation ceremonies.

“Honorary Doctorates acknowledge those whose exceptional achievements have made a unique and lasting contribution to the community,” UQ ViceChancellor Professor Deborah Terry said.

“Both Adjunct Associate Professor Graham and Mr Sinnathamby embody UQ’s mission, values and aspirations in their respective fields.

“It gives me great pleasure to celebrate and acknowledge their outstanding service.”

Prof Deborah Terry AO, Maha Sinnathamby AM, Peter Varghese AO

left to right: Hem Kathvadia, Maanya Kathvadia, Smit Kathvadia, Disha Kathvadia at their Brookwater home

DESTINATION SPRINGFIELD CITY

Globally recognized as the World’s Best master planned community, Greater Springfield is located in one of the fastest growing regions in Australia. With more than $18 billion invested to date, it is the only privately owned master planned development in the country. Touted by former national leaders as a project of national significance, Greater Springfield continues to be a thriving hub of economic growth.

As master planners of this emerging city, Springfield City Group enjoy successful partnerships with all levels of government as well as major organisations including Mirvac, Lendlease, Mater Group and ENGIE.

For more information or to make an enquiry visit greaterspringfield.com.au

Queensland

Greater Springfield Brisbane

Orion Lagoon Springfield Central

AUD $1.2 billion Springfield Rail Orion Springfield Central developed by Mirvac Greg Norman designed Brookwater Golf Course

Brighton Homes ArenaSpringfield Central Stadium

Opening 2022

Steady rates and easing inflation should provide boost to consumer sentiment

Commentary by CoreLogic Research Director, Tim Lawless

THE RBA’s decision to hold the cash rate at 4.1% will be considered a welcome reprieve for many, but it doesn’t necessarily signal an end to the rate hiking cycle. Considering the RBA is working with a mixed bag of key data sets that guide their decision making, another rate hike down the track remains a possibility.

On one hand, we have a lower than expected inflation outcome for the June quarter supporting the hold decision, with headline inflation lower than RBA forecasts at 0.8%, the lowest quarterly change since Q3 2021. Retail sales posted a broad based decline in June, down 0.8%, and economic conditions weakened with GDP growth

of just 0.2% in Q1. Regarding the housing market, the RBA previously expressed concerns about asset value growth, but those worries may have diminished as we’ve seen price growth decelerate in the past two months.

On the flipside, we have persistently tight labour market conditions, with unemployment at just 3.5% alongside strong jobs growth, low productivity growth, and wages that are rising at well above the decade average. Although inflation is coming down, services inflation is ‘sticky’, with annual growth tracking at the highest annual level of growth since 2001. Although rates remained on hold this month, it’s not to say there won’t be another hike down the track. We will

see more detail on the RBA’s economic perspectives when the quarterly Statement on Monetary Policy is published on Friday, but considering the aforementioned opposing trends, another rate hike can’t be dismissed.

Highlighting the uncertainty ahead, some economists have already called a peak in the rate hiking cycle, others believe there will be one more hike in the coming months, while others are pricing in two more rate hikes on the basis of tight labour market conditions potentially feeding wages growth and keeping inflation higher for longer. The range of cash rate forecasts reflects the sheer uncertainty in the economy.

The RBA itself has once again left the door

open for rate hikes, noting some further tightening of monetary policy may be required to ensure that inflation returns to target in a reasonable timeframe, but this depends on the

trajectory of inflation and labour market outcomes.

For the housing sector, the decision to hold interest rates over the past two months is positive news. A growing expectation that interest

rates have peaked, or are near a peak, should help to lift consumer sentiment from the recession-like lows that have persisted over the past nine months.

Consumer confidence and housing activity go hand in hand. Generally, when sentiment is low, home sales are low and vice versa; so, any lift in sentiment is likely to be accompanied by a rise in active buyers and sellers.

ABS data shows that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 0.8% in the June quarter of 2023 and 6.0% over the twelve months.

“This is down on the annual figure for the December quarter of 2022 and March 2023 of 7.8% and 7.0 respectively, and is the lowest annual increase since the March quarter of 2022. In addition, the annual figure for the monthly CPI was down to 5.5% and confirms a downward trend in the rate of increase”, said REIA President, Hayden Groves.

“The most significant

quarterly price rises were rents, up 2.5%, international holiday travel and accommodation, up 6.2%, other financial services, up 2.5% and new dwelling purchase by owneroccupiers, up 1.0%.

“Rents rose 6.7 per cent annually - the largest annual rise since 2009, reflecting low supply across the country.

“The important analytical series, trimmed mean and weighted mean, which exclude large price rises and falls, were 0.9% for the quarter and 5.9% for the year and 1.0% for the quarter and

5.5%, respectively. These are the lowest monthly increases since late 2021.

“With the CPI having peaked late last year as was forecast by the RBA and with the current level below RBA’s May forecast of 6.3% for the year to June it is time not only to continue to keep a pause on further interest rate rises but to rethink the economic orthodoxy on the level of unemployment required for inflation to be neither rising nor falling – the nonaccelerating inflation rate of unemployment (NAIRU),” concluded Mr Groves.

CORELOGIC’S national Home Value Index (HVI) rose 0.7% in July marking a fifth consecutive month of housing value recovery. Since finding a floor in February, the national HVI is up 4.1%, following a - 9.1% decline from record highs in April 2022.

buyers,” he said.

REIA President Hayden Groves has today (27 July 2023) called on family investors to have their say into the inquiry into worsening rental affordability.

Mr Groves said the continued politicking around rental affordability is causing further confusion for Australians and adversely impacting housing supply.

“Adam Bandt is out there campaigning for rent freezes and rent controls, whilst busily attacking family investors when they are, in fact, the main suppliers of rental homes across Australia.

“Meanwhile, Victorian Premier Daniel Andrew’s has joined in with recent speculation about rent controls and rent freezes, with 36% of new property listings in Victoria are now family investors selling rental homes.

“At a time when cost of

living, inflation and interest rates are challenging for all, family investors are rightly frightened by talk of rent controls and rent freezes and we see that bearing out in the listings and sales data.

“The biggest loser out of that is, of course, renters as fewer rental properties will be available.”

Mr Groves said that everyday Australians needed to tell decision makers in Canberra their story about supplying rental properties as well as renters themselves.

“Now is the chance for family investors; and tenants to get involved and give their ideas on how we can improve the rental system and increase supply, not further reduce it.”

video. Make a submission

FAST FACTS:

There are 2.2 million family investors supplying rentals Australia wide. 30% of households rent their home with 27% renting from a private landlord.

Only 3% rent from a government housing authority – half of what it was two decades ago.

Rental affordability has been largely stable in Australia and was at its worst during the Global Financial Crisis.

Rental availability has been severely challenged since the onset of COVID-19 will all major cities reporting vacancy rates of <3%.

For any further information please contact Olwyn Conrau, REIA Media Consultant 0413 600 350 olwyn.conrau@reia.com.au

Nationally, home values remain -5.3% below the April 2022 peak, with only Perth, Adelaide and Regional South Australia recording a new cyclical high in dwelling values through July.

While housing values are continuing to record a broad based rise, the rate of growth has lost momentum over the past two months, slowing from 1.2% in May.

CoreLogic Research Director, Tim Lawless, noted the most substantial reduction in growth has occurred in Sydney.

“After leading the upswing, the monthly pace of growth in Sydney housing values has halved from a recent high of 1.8% in May to 0.9% in July. Sydney has also seen a significant rise in the number of fresh listings added to the market, 9.9% higher than the same time last year and 18.0% above the previous five-year average. An increased flow of new listings provides more choice and may be working to reduce some of the urgency felt among prospective

Brisbane and Adelaide saw the monthly pace of growth accelerate in July, leading the pace of gains across the capitals with housing values up 1.4% across both cities. Although the trend in new listings has risen in these cities, Mr Lawless said the number remains well below levels from a year ago and the previous five-year average.

Canberra was the only capital city to record a decline in values in July, down -0.1%, while Hobart values were unchanged.

The slowdown in value growth has mostly been driven by an easing in gains across the upper quartile of the market. While growth in the upper quartile of the combined capitals index diminished from 1.8% in May to 0.7% in July, the lower quartile (1.0%) and broad middle of the market (0.9%) remained resilient in July, following a smaller, but more consistent rate of growth over previous months.

“Some resilience in growth across the middle and more affordable end of the market aligns with housing finance data which has shown a stronger bounce back in the value of lending to first home buyers and investors over recent months,” Mr Lawless said.

“These segments tend to be more active across the middle to lower end of the pricing range where competition to purchase a home may be more intense. “Premium housing markets tend to lead the cycles, so the slowdown in the pace of growth could be a sign of a broader easing in the pace of growth over the coming months.”

Regional values continued to lag behind the capitals with the combined regionals index rising 0.2% in July compared with a 0.8% increase across the combined capitals index. Every rest-of-state region recorded a smaller change in dwelling values through July relative to the capital city, reflecting milder housing demand across regional Australia as demographic patterns normalise.

The largest rise in regional housing values over the three months ending July (based on SA4 regions) has been the Gold Coast (4.0%), the South East region of Tasmania (3.1%), and the Newcastle/ Lake Macquarie region (3.0%).

On the flipside, the weakest conditions over the rolling quarter were confined to areas of Regional Victoria, with Bendigo (-3.7%) recording the largest decline, followed by Shepparton (-2.3%) and the Warrnambool/South West region (-2.3%).

reia urges Family iNVestors to haVe their say oN the reNtal crisis

corelogic home Value index shows growth easing in most regions as new listings rise

Buyers Like What They See at Brookwater.

Your 5 minute neighbourhood:

Just 35 minutes away from Brisbane CBD, the interest among buyers has been at a record level, according to Narendran Sinnathamby, the General Manager of Brookwater Residential. Brookwater’s current land release, The Dress Circle, is situated around the first nine holes of the championship golf course designed by Greg Norman. It is the only integrated golf community near Brisbane. “Discerning buyers are recognising that Brookwater is a premium lifestyle destination,’’Mr Sinnathamby said.

“The Dress Circle, Brookwater is situated within Springfield City, one of Australia’s fastestgrowing regions. Springfield City sets the standard for world-class master-planned urban environments in the 21st century and has become a blueprint for nation-building,” he added. “The area boasts outstanding schools, and state-of-the-art health facilities, and is now home to the Brisbane Lions AFL Club. Everything you need is within reach.”

Within the Springfield City area, there are 12 schools, 22 childcare facilities, and the University of Southern Queensland providing a remarkable array of options for both private and public amenities, making it an ideal choice for growing families.

Springfield City is positioned as the gateway to the western corridor of Southeast Queensland. With an expansive area of 2,860 hectares, it is Australia’s largest master-planned city and the first of its kind since Canberra.

- The wider Springfield Growth Corridor including Springfield and Greater Springfield is currently home to 145,300 people.

- This is expected to grow rapidly to almost 200,000 people in 2026 and over 435,000 in 2041.

- Represents an annual growth rate of 5.6% over the 20 years to 2041.

LARGE REGISTERED HOMESITES FROM $615,000

*Please be advised that the provided outline is intended solely for location reference purposes and is indicative only.

Health City Springfield Central – home to Mater Private Hospital Springfield, Aveo Springfield and Quest Apartment Hotel.

Orion Springfield Central offering major retail shops, restaurants, a movie theatre and food court.

िी्यत साफ हो, तब सत्य

को समझिा और स्वीकार करिा

सरल होता है। और जब िी्यत

खराब हो, तब तो सत्य

saBha oF

Samaj Havan Yajna Satsang at Queensland Vedic Cultural Centre

लोग आपको कहि लग, कक आप

ठीक काम िहीं कर रहे, आप गलत

कर रहे ह ्या गलत कह रहे ह।

तो ्वहां बवद्धमाि व्यक्त को रुक

जािा चाहहए। अपि से अधधक

्योग्य ्या बराबर की ्योग्यता ्वाले

उि अिेक व्यक्त्यों की बात पर गंभीरता से मिि करिा चाहहए।

ऐसा करि से उसे अपिी गलती

समझ म आ सकती है, परंत ्यहद

िी्यत साफ ि हो, हठ अमभमाि

आहद दोर अधधक मात्ा म हों, तब

्यह संभ्व िहीं है।

दसरे पक्ष म -"्यहद कोई व्यक्त

सत्य पर हो, दसरे कम ्योग्य

व्यक्त उसकी बात को समझ

ि पा रहे हों, उसकी सत्य बात

का भी व्वरोध करते हों, और

्वह अकेला पड़ ग्या हो। तो

ऐसी कसथनत म भी उसे घबरािा

िहीं चाहहए। बकलक ऐसा सोचिा

चाहहए, कक मेरा पक्ष सत्य है।

ईश्वर मेरे साथ है। ््योंकक ्वह

सदा सत्य न्या्य धम्ष के पक्ष

म रहता है। ऐसा सोच कर उसे

कोई धचंता िहीं करिी चाहहए।

ऐसी कसथनत म दनि्यां ्वाले लोग

उसका साथ दे ्व, ्या ि दे ्व, ईश्वर

तो अ्वश्य ही साथ देगा। ््योंकक

्वह पण्ष न्या्यकारी है। उस पर

व्वश्वास अ्वश्य बिाए रख। परंत

इस बात का निण्ष्य करि म

बहत सा्वधािी रखिी होगी, कक

सत्य पक्ष म करौि है? सत्य और

असत्य का निण्ष्य प्रत्यक्ष आहद

प्रमाणों और तक्ष के माध्यम से

ही संभ्व है, अन्य कोई उपा्य

िहीं है।"

स्वामी व्व्वेकािंद पररव्ाजक

ओ३म

COMMUNITY SERVICE

COMMUNITy service is one of the best ways to help benefit the public or give back to your community. It does not only have positive effects on society, but it will bring benefits to your life and personal development, we enrich our lives.

Engaging in community service provides people with the opportunity to become active members of their community and has a

lasting, positive impact on society at large. Community service enables individuals to acquire life skills and knowledge, as well as provide a service to those who need it most.

Community service will help connect to the community, benefits your career prospects, raises social awareness, establishes contacts and friendships, helps develop

improve your skills and talents.

Basically, community service can help you to feel really good too. When a project is finalised and you can see the fruits of your labour, it feels good knowing that you were involved in something selflessly that benefitted the community without expecting anything in return. We make a living by

what we get, but we make a life by what we give. Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile. I don't know what your destiny will be, but one thing I do know, the only ones among you who will be really happy are those who have sought and found how to serve, without looking for personal gain. Let us join together today to create a fabulous tomorrow.

PRINCIPAL PHILOSOPHY

Arya Samaj promotes one GOD, the VEDAS ,their true teachings and encourages selfless service to the community.The principal philosophy of Arya Samaj means that three entities are eternal or beginningless i.e God, the soul, and the prakriti (matter). VEDAS advocate the philosophy of existence of GOD, Soul and Matter before the Creation, during the Creation and after the Creation is over. GOD has bestowed humans with knowledge for the progress and well-being. It is therefore natural to accept that this knowledge must have been given to humans at the time

of creation so that they may follow the path of righteousness.

GOD is one , exists all the time. He is the source of all true knowledge. VEDAS paves the way for all round development of life.Vedas tell us how to live life and how to attain salvation (moksh). GOD is the source of all joy and happiness. He is formless (has no shape or body). He has created this world in which we live. He is kind to us all. He is just and merciful. GOD is formless, omniscient, just, merciful, unborn, endless, unchangeable, beginningless, all-pervading , allintelligent, all- powerful

unequalled, the support of all, the master of all, omnipresent, immanent, unaging, immortal, fearless, eternal, GOD alone is worthy of being worshipped. Souls are infinite. Souls have been co-existing with GOD; they were never created into existence, nor shall they ever die. Souls are living individuals. They are likely to be affected by weaknesses such as wrong doings and therefore, they take body forms of human or other living creatures according to their deeds, through which they function. In this body each individual is responsible for his or her actions. Not only

do human beings possess souls, but animals also have souls. Matter Prakriti -water, air, heat, soil and ether exists at the time, in atom form, with GOD and the Souls. All the three (GOD, Soul and Matter) are eternal, are uncreated that is, they have been existing for all times, and they would continue to do so. The matter when put into action by GOD leads to the entire creation, The Vedic trio of GODSoul-Matter can be best understood by a careful perusal of Maharshi Swami Dayanand Jis SatyarthPrakash (Light

Truth),-to be continued.

of

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

सत्य को समझना और स्वीकार करना

iskcon Brisbane’s

Janmastami is back in 2023!

BRISBANE’S largest Janmastami festival is set to attract devotees and guests from all around the city at The Croatian Club, Rocklea, to celebrate the birth of Lord Krishna.

On Thursday, 7th September, THE CROATIAN CLUB BRISBANE 164 DUNN ROAD, ROCKLEA will be transformed into a spectacular arena enabling festival goers to experience the magic of Janmastami. From 5 pm onwards, visitors can look forward to an enthralling stage program with dramas, live music and dance; experience the cuisine of India; shop from the bazaar; and keep children entertained with fun and engaging activities.

“2022, Janmastami was mainly celebrated at The Croatian Club with a good presence of people across Brisbane. Devotees can stay until the midnight arati ceremony - celebrating the exact time of Lord Krishna’s birth,” explains festival organizer Mr Sheth.

“With a bigger venue, and years of experience, we’ve started working earlier to make this festival even bigger and better than previous years,” Mr Sheth said.

For over eight years, the Janmastami organised by the Hare Krishna community has been headed and organised by

Brisbane’s largest Janmastami festival is set to attract devotees and guests from all around the city at the croatian club, rocklea, to celebrate the birth of lord Krishna.

the society's youth. They bring innovation and dynamism to the traditional event - making it fun and appealing for people of all ages. From the decor to the stage program and even the different engaging activities - all aspects of the festival have a unique flavour.

The festival will begin at 5 pm and go on until midnight - which is the exact time of the birth of Lord Krishna - in whose honor this festival is celebrated. The stage program will consist of live music, arati ceremonies, the abhishek (ceremonious bathing of the Lords), dramas and spiritual discourses. Those who want something more interactive can check out the many stalls on offer, grab a sumptuous bite to eat or watch as their children engage in various fun activities at the kid's stall.

“We’ve really tried hard to keep making the festival

better than previous years

- we want it to be an event that everyone looks forward to - not something that people are dragged along to come because of cultural obligations,” explains Jalaj Guwalani who has coorganized the festival for more than five years in a row.

“And we’ve begun to see that over the past few years - with increasing numbers and more people attending the festival for longer periods. Guests are engaged with each aspect of the festival - and it’s great to see their enthusiasm and appreciation for the whole event,” comments Mr Guwalani.

Several dignitaries and prominent personalities have confirmed their attendance for this year’s Janmastami, lending their support to the Hare Krishna community and all its initiatives.

2023

Friday 1 September to Wednesday 6 September

Hawan will be conducted on the FIRST day and the FINAL day of the celebration

Program conducted by Pujniye Pundit Suresh Shandil Ji

DaV college Ba FiJi reuNioN BrisBaNe -a salute to PioNeers oF arya sama J, teachers aND school mates

FoRMeR students of DAV College, Ba Fiji will hold the fourth International Reunion at Chinese Catholic Community Hall in Runcorn, Brisbane on Saturday 9 September, 2023.

For a rural school like DAV COLLEGE, BA, FIJI, it is a feat for its former students to hold international school reunions - in fact four of them.

First- Burnaby, Vancouver, Canada in 2015

Second in Auckland New Zealand in 2017

Third in Ba/Lautoka Fiji in 2019

And this Fourth one in Brisbane in 2023. It was supposed to be held in 2021, but was delayed because of Covid 19.

A salute to four former students who would create history by attending all four events: Mahendra Singh (Auckland), Sant Lal Sharma (Vancouver), and Shashi Shankar and Thakur Ranjit Singh (Auckland)

High decile schools (parents with higher economic levels) in Fiji like Suva Grammar, Marist Brothers and Xavier College have been known to have marked their reunions publicly and internationally. But for a relatively lower decile school like D.A.V. College, in Ba, this was a difficult call and a tall order

Higher decile schools tended to filter only the brightest students in their schools. Most of “rejects” came to schools like DAV, Khalsa and Sangam etc.

Schools like D.A.V and others

were there to provide services to mostly children of poorer canefarmer parents, and yours truly, Thakur was also one of them. And most of them had lower marks, rejected by schools like Xavier College.

Anybody can take creamy milk and make butter out of it. But it takes big courage to take buttermilk (maatha) and re-make it into butter. Schools like DAV have been doing just that and this is an opportunity to pay back that gratitude by remembering those fond days.

As the author of Tears in Paradise, Rajendra Prasad, a DAV student who left in 1965, said that DAV High School was not in league with the secondary schools like the Xavier College, which is ranked as the best secondary school in Ba. In a way, it was not the best, as it always scooped the brightest students that transited from primary schools to secondary schools. In this regard, credit should also go to other secondary schools that did more to promote education in Ba.

That is what schools like DAV, Sangam, Khalsa, Muslim, Sanatan, Methodist etc need to have special salute for serving the community of poorer people and poorer students.

It is especially for this reason I salute our Girmitiyas, and their vision, and Arya Samaj for providing this school which moulded us into better citizens.

VISION: Yes, that is what our Girmitiya forefathers had in abundance. They vowed never to

let their children be illiterate like them to be tricked. Hence, through this vision, they decided to invest in educational institutions like D.A.V. College in Ba, Fiji and many more. These were the descendants of Girmitiyas, who were ordinary people who did extraordinary things in extraordinary circumstances. And establishing schools for Girmitiya children was one of them.

On this fourth DAV Reunion in Brisbane on 9 September, 2023, I take this opportunity to pay tribute to those pioneer members of Arya Samaj who decided to establish this institution, Mata Saraswati Ki Mandir (a temple for Goddess of knowledge). It has produced so many exemplary citizens of all races and all walks of life.

I would like to especially pay tribute to the father of our DAV Reunion Executive Committee of Ba Reunion, Surya Deep Singh (and deceased teacher Indira Singh), Mr Jaswant Singh who was the school manager during my time at DAV, and also Mahendra Pratap, who was Principal in 1970 when I joined DAV. That is almost a lifetime ago –over half a century-53 years ago.

Hardik aur koti koti Naman, salutation, to memory of all departed ones- committee, teachers and fellow school mates, who in anyway contributed to DAV College, Ba, and given us the fond

memories, and the legacies they left behind.

Apart from giving us fond memories, it gave us more than that - life partners to some.

DAV LoVeRS HALL oF FAMe

While some Arya Samaj Executives scorn the idea of love blooming in schools, at least four prominent former students proved them wrong. As they say,....ishk par zor nahin…no control on love.

There are at least four from our class of 1970s. I met my wife Shashi Kala Shankar in DAV in 1973 and have been married for almost 45 years. Chairman/ President of DAV Reunion 2019, Sadasivan Naicker and Sarita Devi have well-known love stories and they have been married for some 47 years, breaking the barrier of inter-ethnic marriages over half a century ago. And my classmate of 1970, Raftar Ahmad and Imnathul Nisha also met in DAV and later married, and now reside in Surrey, Vancouver.

And barriers and restrictions imposed by a conservative school could not stop the then school manager’s son, Surya Deep Singh and Hem Lata ( from Ba’s Tahal family) also have a love story at DAV. All these couples have been successfully married for over four decades, with children and grandchildren now.

Hence DAV College gave us more than education - it also gave us an opportunity to meet our life - partners in the school. And they have been honoured in past

god is a Perfect and righteous Judge…

What do you call some who lies?

GG: A liar.

Have ever stolen anything?

GG: Nope.

But you just admitted that you are a liar.

Key Verse: Matthew 13:40-42

As the weeds are pulled up and burned in the fire, so it will be at the end of the age. The Son of Man will send out his angels, and they will weed out of his kingdom everything that causes sin and all who do evil. They will throw them into the blazing furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Whoever has ears, let them hear.

DeAR ReADeR,

We are blessed to bring you the Good News. Our theme simple and clear.

It is to make God real and personal.

And to make God very Real Person. Only then we can learn to know His nature and relate to Him. Just as Children relate to their Father and Mother.

Here is a powerful truth: That God is not an object or an image

or imagina-tion of human mind.

God is a living and loving person. We find this amaz-ing revelation in the pages of Holy Bible.

This month we focus on some of the most important questions some may ask you. For example, Are you a good person? Are you Mr Good Guy?

It looks a like a simple question, but your honest answer to this questions will lead to a self discovery. Just like looking in the

mirror to fix our face and body, we must look God’s word. Scriptures are supernatural Mirror. And they reveal the true condition of your heart and soul.

Try to ask yourself this question:

“ I am a good person?”.

The only person who can give an absolutely true answer to that question is God alone. So, why not you ask God the same question, “God, can you please reveal to me that I am a good person according to your standard?”

Let’s meet Mr. Good Guy (GG), if good people go to heaven, he will be the first on the line.

Our first question to GG is;

“Have you kept the God’s ten commandments?”

GG: “Pretty much”.

Really?

Do you mind that God examines your life style Mr GG…?

Have you ever told a lie?

GG: Yeah, who hasn’t?

GG: Well, I did steal some pencils and pens from a schoolmates

What do you call some who steals?

GG: A thief.

Have ever looked at someone with lust?

GG: Of Course!

Remember, Jesus said, Everyone who looks at a person with lustful intent has already committed adultery with that person in their heart.

Have you ever used God’s name in vain?

GG: Yes, when I was angry at some one who did wrong to me

That is called blasphemy “The Lord will not hold him guiltless who takes His name in vain. (Exodus 20:7)

GG: Ok, So I am not perfect.

Actually, it is worse than that…

Suppose, God could put a microchip device into your brain that could rec-ord all your private thoughts for a month and play them on a big movie screen for all

our children, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren read this article, they need to realise that we at DAV in 1970s were what we say………………………….HUM KISIS

SE KUM NAHI….(We are no lesser than others)

reunions and inducted in DAV

Lovers Hall of Fame

KRiSH-SuDAMA LeSSonS

It was indeed an honour for me to have gone through DAV College, Ba. I would not want to change that for anything.

Apart from granting us an education base that helped us earn a living, the school also taught us how to live. Apart from giving me a life partner, it also gave us numerous friends.

But most important, our school days, like legends of KrishnSudama, gave us fond memories of childhood in those formative years, without any barriers of status. We call them– “Yaadein” – memories, the thread of which can take us back in time, and I hum …. “koi lauta de mere beete huye din….” (Somebody please give me back those bygone days.)

God Bless DAV and all our mates who are spread in various corners of this world. And deep hearty Naman (salutation) to those who have passed away. God Bless all the others, including teachers and management. And may the school prosper for many many years to come.

And when we are gone, and

your friends and family to see…

GG: Oh no, that will be absolutely embarrassing!

Remember, God knows the secrets of every heart (Psalm 44:21) and he knows all our thoughts (Psalm 139).

GG: Well, compared to some worst people in the history of mankind I am saint.

True, but the moral standard is God’s law and not other people. Each of us have to give an account of them self to God (Romans 14;22).

GG: But won’t God just forgive me?

Try that in court of law…

Justice demands that for every broken law you must pay full penalty. Imag-ine trying to escape from paying driving offences.

GG: Then, there is no one man is good in this world.

Yes, that is true, all have sinned and fallen short of God’s moral law that were given through ten commandments.

GG: I can never pay for all the laws I have broken day after day! There is no way…

Yes, humanly speaking it is impossible,

But, There is only one way… God’s way.

If a sinless person offered to pay your punishment, then justice would be served and you

We have left a legacy that the new generation can be proud of, and hope the seed we planted of the first DAV Reunion in 2015 continues in perpetuity. We will meet in memories, as we proceed on the fourth DAV Reunion in Brisbane next month. We may retain the theme of Ba Reunion-YEH ZINDGI NA MILEGI DOBARA…. you live only one.

And we DAVians of yesteryears will make an effort, especially those in Australia and New Zealand that we lived beautifully with this thought, and would meet in 2023 Reunion.

I, together with my wife Shashi, and other veterans from DAV lovers hall of fame, Surya and Hem Lata Singh, Sada and Sarita Naicker would attend, together with Mahendra Singh, Sant Sharma, Indar Nair and brother Vel Nair, among others who will grace the Chinese Catholic Hall on 9 September in Runcorn, Brisbane. Let the fun begin.

[About the Author: Thakur Ranjit Singh is a founding executive of DAV Reunion from 2015, and has attended all International DAV Reunions. He is a journalist, a media commentator and blogger at FIJI PUNDIT. He is a regular contributor from Auckland for this publication. E-mail: thakurjifj@gmail.com]

could go free.

God showed His love for us in that while we were still sinners (law break-ers), Christ Jesus died for us (Romans 5:8). We can’t earn God’s forgiveness by our million good works. It is our hum-ble and broken heart that opens the way to receive the free gift of God’s forgiveness to all who trust in the name of Jesus.

It begins with accepting that we are morally fallen short God’s standard, and none of our good works can pay for our sins. Then, we can repent of our lifestyle and turn to God; For He is more than willing to accept all who call on His name with a sincere and sobering heart.

Therefore, we invite you to pray this with a sincere heart;

“Dear Father God, today I thank you for your word that has touched my heart. I repent of my wrongs and I confess with my mouth ‘Jesus is Lord’ and I believe in my heart that Jesus died for my sins, God raised Jesus from the dead for my Mukti (Salvation). Now help me to know Jesus more and more so that I can grow in the knowledge of your grace and mercy. Teach me your ways so that I can be person who will learn to honour you and learn to love each other. Amen.

Thakur Ranjit Singh, FIJI PUNDIT

The main entry to DAV College, Ba Fiji, the temple of Saraswati Mata, temple of knowledge

The poster for DAV Reunion Brisbane, 2023

Two couple from DAV Lovers Hall of Fame: Thakur Ranjit and Shashi Shankar Singh, Sarita and Sadasivan Naicker. They met at DAV in 1970s and have been married for over 45 years

With teachers and Students: L-R: Nirmala Balram. Nirla Pandey, Sanat Pandey, Thakur Ranjit Singh, Shashi Shankar Singh and Bal Ram (deceased) at DAV Reunion in Auckland on 13 May, 2017

Planting trees at DAV College, Ba, Fiji during Reunion in Ba on 19 July, 2019. Thakur Ranjit Singh and Sadasivan Naicker at the back, with Shashi Shankar Singh and Sarita Naicker, helped by one of the teachers.

Jesus said “arise and shine…”

mahatma gandhi – indian independence

THE Salt Satyagrah had infused immense momentum into the national independence movement. Civil unrest had mounted. The government’s revenue had dropped, and at many places the local population had overpowered the police and raised the Indian national flag. The prevailing situation was embarrassing for the colonial government.

Round Table Conference - The British government was alarmed by the developments and organised the first Round Table Conference to address issues.

No Congress representative participated in it as almost all national leaders including Mahatma Gandhi were in prison. The conference was a failure, which prompted British government to release Congress leaders for their participation in the following conference. Gandhi was released from the jail on 26 January 1931.

To keep communication with the government open, Gandhi sought an interview with the viceroy. The meeting between him and viceroy Irwin started in February 1931 and after intense negotiations, the Gandhi – Irwin pact was signed in March 1931. The pact established the principle of equality between India represented by the Congress and the British government. The pact also obliged the Congress to participate in the second Round Table Conference.

The Congress elected Gandhi as the sole delegate to the second Round Table Conference. The conference comprised 112 delegates. Gandhi alone represented the Indian National Congress. Gandhi left for London to participate in the conference on 29 August and returned back to India on 28 December 1931.

The British government tried to use the conference to protect its hold on India by advocating among other policies, the formation of a federation of princely states and dividing the country on the basis of religion and specific interests. Differences among the participating parties were too conflicting to succeed. The second Round Table Conference failed. During his visit to London, Gandhi visited factories, education institutions, met sympathisers of India, prominent people and old acquaintances. On his return journey, he visited and met influential persons in Europe.

Fast unto Death - On his return to India, Gandhi learnt about Emergency Power Ordinances promulgated in the United Provinces, North-West Frontier Province and Bengal. The ordinances authorised the military to seize buildings, impound bank balances, confiscate personal wealth, arrest without warrant and commit other atrocities against the civilian population. Gandhi tried to established contact with the new viceroy, Willingdon, to discuss matters arisen due to Emergency Power Ordinances. He wrote to the viceroy for an interview. Instead of starting communication with Gandhi, the government arrested him the next day on 4 January 1932 under Regulation XXXV of 1827, and held him in Yerawada Jail, Pune.

While in jail, Gandhi had gathered from the newspapers that new British constitution of India would grant separate

electorates not only to Hindus and Muslims as in the past, but to untouchables, also known as Dalit or Harijan. He was alarmed by the new development and wrote a letter to the secretary of state for India stressing the harmful effects of such a move. Despite that, Britain announced its decision in August 1932 in favour of separate electorates. Gandhi wrote to the British prime minister, ‘I have to resist your decision with my life’. He announced that he would commence his fast unto death on the 20th September. His announcement galvanised the masses of India to save his life. People petitioned government to release Gandhi.

Hindu leaders gathered in Birla House in Mumbai on 20th September, the day Gandhi started his fast unto death. The Dalit delegates including Dr Ambedkar participated in the meeting to find an amicable solution. Negotiations between parties concluded on 24th September with an agreement known as Yerawada pact. Gandhi insisted on British government’s approval of this pact. Eventually the government announced simultaneously in London and New Delhi that it had approved the Pact. Then only Gandhi broke his fast on 26th September 1932.

The event created an emotional upheaval in Hindu society. Harijans were allowed access to temples, wells, schools and public roads. The newspapers printed names of hundreds of the temples that lifted the ban under the impact of Gandhi’s fast. Orthodox Hindus accepted food from the hands of harijans. Caste Hindus dined publicly with street cleaners, cobblers and scavengers. Resolutions were adopted promising to stop discriminations against untouchables.

Still in Jail, Gandhi started Harijan Sevak Sangh and a new weekly Harijan, replacing the Young India, which the government had banned. He undertook a three-week fast for self-purification starting on 8th May 1933. He was released the same day from prison. He sought an interview with the viceroy, who refused to see him. Gandhi organised a march in protest. He was arrested and released after three days. He was ordered to remain in the city of Pune. He disobeyed the order and was arrested and sentenced to a year in prison. He began his fast in protest. Eventually due to his health deterioration, he was released on 23 August 1933.

Constructive Programs

- Between 1933 and 1939, Gandhi devoted his main energy to uplifting harijans and propagating comprehensive plans for village reconstruction and education. He handed over the Sabarmati Ashram to a harijan society and shifted his residence to Wardha. He called on leaders to engage in nation building known as Constructive Programs.

In November 1933, he began a ten-month tour to highlight and advocate for harijan welfare and visited every province in India. He preached Hindu-Muslim unity. He interrupted his tour when a severe earthquake hit a large section of Bihar in 1934. He visited stricken villages and comforted the inhabitants with advice and preaching.

With the outbreak of the

Second World War in 1939, Gandhi was dragged into the political arena. The Congress Working Committee issued a manifesto, which condemned the Fascist aggression in Poland. It also specified that the western democracies must shed their own imperialism before they could contend that they were fighting imperialism and not their rivals. A free democratic India would gladly associate herself with other free nations for mutual defence against aggression.

There were many patriots in India who felt that it was the time to strike the government to achieve independence. The majority of Congress leaders would have welcomed participation in the war effort, provided India could do so as an equal partner with Britain. Gandhi disliked the idea of conditional support of war, but accepted majority’s decision.

Quit India - He advised the nation to accept the Congress stand and pleaded with the British on its behalf. But the British were not in the mood to listen. On the front line, the British were unable to stem the Japanese advance to the Indian border. Since British seem unable to ensure India’s defence, and were not willing to let India defend herself, Gandhi called upon them to quit India and prepared to organise Satyagrah. He addressed the All India Congress Committee on 7 August 1942 and wanted to see the viceroy. However, on the early hours of the morning of August 9, he and other leaders of the Congress were arrested. Disorder broke out immediately all over India. India became a country under armed occupation.

Gandhi was interned in Aga Khan’s palace near Pune. The terror reigning in the country troubled him. He began a twentyone day fast on 10th February 1943; his condition grew critical, but he survived. His wife Kasturba fell ill in December 1943 and the following February she died.

Six weeks after Kasturba’s death, Gandhi suffered a severe attack of malaria. After two days his malaria was gone, but his anaemia was worse and

twentieth British viceroy arrived in Delhi to transfer power. Gandhi travelled to Delhi to consult with Mountbatten. They met six times between 31 March and 12 April. Gandhi did not agree to any kind of partition in April and refused to approve of it until his death. On 13 April, he returned to Bihar. Action for non-violence and against hate was the only political work for him.

The Congress working committee convened on May 1, 1947, which finally agreed to partition of the country. Gandhi travelled to Delhi to attend the session. He was opposed to it. The Muslim League had threatened a civil war. Gandhi went to see Mountbatten. His advice to the viceroy was to leave with their troops and take the risk of chaos and anarchy. He maintained that there might be chaos for a while. We would go through the fire of chaos, but that fire would purify us.

blood pressure low. His general condition was giving rise to anxiety. Agitation for his release swept India.

On 6th May, Gandhi and his associates were released from prison. It was Gandhi’s last time in jail. In total he spent 2,089 days in Indian and 249 days in South African prisons.

By 1945, India was too restive to be controlled. Britain realised its inability to suppress the independence movement by force. The British government announced in September 1945, that it sought an early realisation of self-government in India. Elections to the central and provincial legislatures were the first step. All parties agreed to contest the election. Congress won the majority of non-Muslim seats and the Muslim League the majority of Muslim seats.

The British Cabinet Mission arrived in Delhi and published on 16 May 1946, the British proposal to transfer its power in India. An elected national Constituent Assembly would draft India’s constitution. The Muslim League demanded a separate nation carved out of India, which Gandhi vehemently resisted. On 12th August 1946, the viceroy commissioned Jawaharlal Nehru to form a government. Nehru offered positions in his cabinet to Muslim League headed by Jinnah, who declined to join.

The Muslim League declared 16 August a “Direct Action Day”. Riots broke out in Kolkata, where thousands of people lost their life. Similar incidents occurred in other parts of the country. Gandhi travelled to Kolkata and helped restore peace in the city.

Sectarian violence spread unabated in the rural areas. Widespread Muslim attacks on Hindus occurred in Noakhali, a village in east Bengal. Gandhi went to Noakhali. He remained there from November 1946 to March 1947 until peace was restored. Violence also broke out in Bihar in retaliation of crimes against Hindus in Bengal. Gandhi went to Bihar and helped established peace there.

Lord Mountbatten, the last and

According to Gandhi, Pakistan was not possible unless the British created it, and the British would not create Pakistan unless Congress accepted it. They could not split India and antagonise the majority to placate Jinnah and minority. Therefore Congress should not accept it. Nobody listened to Gandhi on this matter. He travelled a number of times from Delhi to Bihar, Kolkata and back to Delhi during this period. Kolkata had been torn by bloody strife ever since Jinnah’s Direct Action Day on 16 August 1946.

On 15 August 1947, India became an Independent country. On this day, Gandhi was in Kolkata fighting riots. He fasted all day and prayed. He had arrived in Kolkata on 9 August 1947. After the situation in the east was stabilised, Gandhi planned to travel to Punjab, where Hindus and Sikhs were being killed. All sorts of crimes were being committed including rapes of women and forcible conversion to Islam.

Gandhi left Kolkata on 7 September for Delhi. In Delhi, the communal situation was bad. There was a feeling of revenge, for atrocities committed against Hindus and Sikhs in Pakistan. He visited various camps and refugee centres and pleaded for calm.

In Delhi, he stayed in the Birla house. He used to hold daily prayer meetings, which were attended by people of all walks, religions and nationalities. A number of people thought that in his speeches and actions, Gandhi did not oppose Muslim’s atrocities against Hindus and Sikhs. They assumed that he was anti-Hindu and pro-Muslim.

On the 30th January 1948, when Gandhi was on his way to the prayer meeting, an assassin, Nathuram Godse came in his front, touched his feet, and fired three bullets in his chest. Chanting Hey Ram, Gandhi fell and died. He was cremated at Rajghat in Delhi.

Gandhi is considered to be the father of modern India. Many equate him with Buddha and Christ. During his lifetime, millions adored him, and multitudes tried to kiss his feet or the dust of his footsteps. Many believe that as an incarnation in ancient period, he relieved India from the century old chain of slavery from foreign rules.

—Awadhesh Sharma www.hinduguru.com.au

how even-minded, non-attached, and excellent in Dharma is the shri Krishna avatar!

THE content of this article is taken from the satsang (spiritual discourse) 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 Bapuji 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 a 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 Matri-Pitri 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 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 true happiness & peace.

Dear readers, in this article Pujya Bapuji depicts the supreme personality of Shri Krishna. Krishna always knew that He is Vishnu himself, but he never utilized his powers until the situation was mandatory. He lived the life of a common man and set an example for us to live according to Dharma irrespective whatever hurdles we face in our lives! Let’s know the inspirational qualities of

Shri Krishna.

THE PURNA AVATARSHRI KRISHNA

The life of Lord Krishna is believed to be a Complete Incarnation in order to bring about all-round development of our human life. He it while receiving the mother’s love, while playing the butter-stealing lila or while being tied to a mortar by his mother; Shri Krishna seems entirely Perfect and Complete during His entire course of childhood pastimes! He is the complete warrior of the warriors; and a complete Knower (Jnani) among men of knowledge!

He sang the song celestial (Shrimad Bhagavad Gita) that turned out to be the world-famous scripture. Among the ascetics living in solitude, he was such that He lived at his Guru’s feet for 13 years and found repose in the Immovable Self. Even as a student, He was completely focused and diligent! As a friend, He was so generous that he did not hesitate in washing feet of his classmate poor Sudama and He takes with respect the flat rice brought by him.

So, you too, on this day of Janmashtami, should invite a childhood friend, like Sudama to your place. Whatever he brings for you like Sudama's flat rice, accept it with love; and treat him as your guest, shower your love on him.

So, Shri Krishna hasn’t left even this lesson and taught it by example. He has shown us that He is ready to be pleased (and can dance) even with the offering of a cupful of buttermilk from those, who call Him sincerely, with love and humility; while He did not go to those who, by means of shrewdness, fraud and deceit, wanted to make an impression; or wanted to prove their prominence by inviting Krishna, offering 56 varieties of food.

COMPLETELy IMPARTIAL LIVING BASED ON DHARMA (RIGHTEOUSNESS)

Shri Krishna's life is not impacted by circumstances. He went as the mediator before the

war of Mahabharata and didn't succeed in making a treaty; yet He respected Bhishma. Shri Krishna is one of a kind, whose face never expressed dejection, whose face never lost its smile; who never turned directionless or befuddled because of fear; who was never misled or fascinated because of anxiety and who never indulged in dishonest dealing in His works for Dharma and public welfare out of attachment to family or household. He loves even the one who doesn't believe in Shri Krishna but leads his life righteously; and He has the ability to devise a plot to teach a lesson to His own kin who go against the laws of Dharma.

The Yadus (people of the Yadu race) acquired a lot of wealth and money and were carrying the same after loading elephants, horses, donkeys and mules. Shri Krishna realized that - “they have received state wealth without any effort, which would make their intellect corrupt, bodies diseased, mind impure and heart depressed. So, He challenged Jarasandha at that very moment, who then attacked Him. It was required for Shri Krishna to leave from there, otherwise how could Jarasandha loot the wealth? Ranchhodrai (Lit. The king who flees the battle, a name of Shri Krishna) lied and Jarasandha took all the wealth and belongings. The Yadus were then compelled to lead a restrained life. There has never been a feeling of sadness, frustration, disappointment or agitation in Shri Krishna's life. Even in the battlefield, He is established in the Yoga of equanimity.

THE KING OF EQUANIMITy - SHRI

KRISHNA

If you look at Shri Krishna’s life, you will

realize that He is always crowned the king of the empire of equanimity. His mind is so calm and composed that when King Satrajit accuses Him of stealing the Syamantaka gem and even brother Balarama expresses his suspicion about the same, He doesn’t get distraught or perturbed. Shri Krishna respected sadhus and saints and enjoyed living in solitude. He always tried to stay in sacred places, but His children and grandchildren were just the opposite. None of his sons obeyed his commands. None of his grandsons were obedient to him. None of them would ever take the food and drink that Shri Krishna preferred. On one hand, Shri Krishna would take sattvik food and have faith in sadhus and saints; while, on the other hand the Yadus would drink the intoxicating Soma juice; their intellect was perverted to such an extent that they would insult the sadhus and make a mockery of them. ‘How could the race which insults sadhus and great men be mine? I don’t care if such a race is exterminated.’ Shri Krishna’s life shows such detachment. He is such a great man of righteousness that for the sake of righteousness, He wouldn’t care about his family, household or even the race!

Shri Krishna did not depart this life by sitting in deep meditation (Samadhi), or sitting on a royal-throne, or while being surrounded by Vaidyas (i.e. Ayurvedic physicians). He was born in a jail and at times, had to flee bare-footed and live on begging alms from Rishis’ashrams. Yet, Shri Krishna remained ever established in His eternal true being and kept ever smiling. He did not become disappointed or frustrated

at all, rather troubles made his life brilliant, famous and adorable.

SUCH SHOULD BE THE PUBLIC LEADER!

Shri Krishna was such a generous public leader that He gave a lot of protection to public opinion. Public leaders and politicians should get inspiration from the public life of Shri Krishna to lead their public life by his example. He spent His own publiclife giving importance to poor and backward public, infusing love, courage and strength into their hearts, pointing them towards their true nature; even inviting the hostility of the egomaniac exploiters, who were quite influential during that era.

If we had properly analyzed and understood the great deeds of the avatar Shri Krishna, and conducted ourselves according to it, we wouldn't be as backward among the superpowers of the world for all these years. Had Krishna’s steady Wisdom been acquired by our nation, we would have been number one amongst the superpowers of the world today.

So, the festival of Janmashtami gives you a message to make a resolve to uplift society in your surroundings and elevate your life by remembering how Krishna lead his life as a Lila Purushotama to elevate society; and taking benefit from that, lead your life keeping your body healthy, mind happy and intellect established in knowledge of the Self. Every year when the festival of Janmashtami comes, it instils zeal, freshness, cheerfulness, love and courage in you.

THE COMPLETENESS OF THE JANMASHTAMI FESTIVAL

The festival of Janmashtami is an

exceptional festival. When that antaryamin Krishna, who is unborn, formless and transcendent, and is attracting everyone; starts Hooding your heart, you may conclude that the festival has been perfectly celebrated. The day you realize the Krishnatattva (i.e. Absolute Consciousness); be sure on that day you have celebrated the festival of Janmashtami in a true sense. May your constant efforts come to an end with the birth of Krishna, in your heart through Selfrealization. It is understood that Krishna descended on earth 5248 years ago; but even now, that Krishnatattva is descending on you with every breath of yours and that is why your intellect, mind and senses have been sustained. But the descent is partial, and that's why you lead your life meekly, submissively, and miserably. If you make the complete descent, even you would become perfect Krishna yourself. Even at present all of us are the same but that realization is required.

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, Melbourne and in Sydney. The kids are trained to learn yogic mudras, techniques, yogasnas and pranayamas. These yogic techniques along with jap and meditation help kids in attaining virtues like righteousness and selfrestraint. The kids learn precious keys to develop intelligence and take advantage of chanting and meditation while playing and laughing. Please read more about our Vedic culture in the next issue of “The Brisbane Indian Times.”

To know more about His Divine Holiness Bapu ji, please watch this video. https://bit.ly/2uZvJuN

For more info about Bal Sanskar and yoga sessions, to get a free copy of monthly spiritual magazine Rishi-Prasad 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 Seva Samiti Au & NZ Inc. at +61 426 834 434 & +61 405 277 802.

imPortaNce oF guru iN liFe Swami Atmeshananda, Vedanta Centre Springfield Lakes

‘HE who can, does; he who cannot, teaches.’ said Bernard Shaw. His wise crack is but an echo of an old adage ‘example is better than precept’ – Guru tradition lays emphasis on this practicality on the part of Guru. – brahma vit tamah; the best among the knowers of Brahman’. In our tradition, one of the terms for guru is ‘Acharya’ – a-charati iti. He is an exemplar – leads a life that the disciple can emulate. He is the mould from which is fashioned the personality of the discipleshe is the model and students are copies.

Next to the great philosophies of Hinduism, the institution of Guru occupies the central place. No other religion or culture venerates the teacher as Hinduism does. All our ceremonies, study, prayer, meditation etc. begin only after paying proper respect to Guru.

GURUSHAKTI

Shri Ramakrishna says, ‘Sat-chit-Ananda is the ONLY Guru’ So, Guru is actually the manifestation of the Omnipotent, Omnipresent, Omniscient Divine That is of the nature of ExistenceKnowledge-Bliss Absolute in ‘a form ‘! It is a power! Not

a person! Guru is actually a ‘Shakti’.

One may argue that if the Gurushakti is the manifestation of the power that is everywhere, why do we need to accept a form of a person as our Guru. To answer this, we refer to a conversation between Shri Ramakrishna and Vidyasagar (a great educationist and reformer) recorded in the ‘Gospel of Shri Ramakrishna (5 August, 1882):

Sri Ramakrishna: “Just see how picturesque this universe is! How many

things there are! The sun, moon, and stars; and how many varieties of living beings! – big and small, good and bad, strong and weak –some endowed with more power, some with less”.

Vidyasagar : “ Has he endowed some with more power and others with less?”

Shri Ramakrishna : “ As the All-pervading Spirit He

exists in all beings, even in the ant. But the manifestations of His Power are different in different beings; otherwise, how can one person put ten to flight, while another can’t face even one? And why do all people respect you? Have you grown a pair of horns? (Laughter) You have more compassion and learning. Therefore people honour you

and come to pay you their respects. Don’t you agree with me? “

Vidyasagar smiled.

WHO CAN BE A GURU?

The scriptures point out three characteristics for a Guru:

1) Srotriya, that is, he should have the knowledge of the scriptures. But actually,

he should know the spiritual essence of the scriptures. Personal experience of what the scripture says is of utmost importance to become a Guru.

2) Avrjina, that is, his conduct should be above reproach. He should live strictly in conformity with the scriptural ideal. There should be purity in thought, word and ded.

3) Akamahata, that is, his relation with his disciple should not have any kind of selfish motive. Otherwise, the relationship between the disciple and Guru will be a ‘business’ relationship!

(Guru Purnima was observed at the Vedanta Centre in Springfield Lakes on the 2nd July 2023).

The Vedanta Centre in Springfield Lakes is an intercultural faith and community hub engaged in benevolent activities like food assistance, educational workshops, activities for children and youth, classes on Vedanta and volunteer opportunities. The Centre has a Café, Soup Kitchen, community garden and reading library. All are welcome. Email: info@ vedantabrisbane.org

Brisbane Chapter Vedanta Centre of Sydney Programme for August 2023

Who, What, Where, When...

Amritpal Singh Bains weds Harlin Kaur at Brisbane Sikh Temple, Gurudwara Sahib, in a beautiful traditional Sikh ceremony.

Grooms Party (Baraat) arrives at Gurudwara Sahib

Anand Karaj, Shabads, and Anand Sahib were conducted in the traditional manner.

S. Gurjit Singh, Sdn Kulwant Kaur, Amritpal Singh Bains, Harlin Kaur and Usha Chandra at the wedding reception of Amritpal and Harlin

A jubilant Madinah enjoys the attention at her first birthday Party Mum and Dad assist Madinah with blowing out the candle

Everyone together, Madinah’s first birthday party was like none other; it had train rides, food stalls, and pony rides.

Upma Kite with Umesh and Usha Chandra at the after party Line up of models displays the specially selected labels at the exhibition at Queen Street Mall.

Upma Kite of Ravishing Fashionistas bids every goodbye from the ramp after a very successful fashion parade.

A large gathering of well wishes at the grand wedding reception held at Kedron Wavel RSL function centre.

Who, What, Where, When...

Chakraborty family with Jay Vijay Sachan at Coorparoo Secondary School, Zaisha and Annesha performed at the event.

A representative family at the post-citizenship ceremony held at Brisbane City Hall

Umesh Chandra OAM., Lord Mayor and Suman Dua at the post-citizenship reception

Another representative family with the young one, there were about six hundred plus new citizens who were granted citizenship that night.

A sold-out function supporting the Aalam Bibi Trust fundraising dinner at Micheals restaurant

Dr Farah Deeba Akram, the founder of Aalam Bibi Trust, addresses the gathering at the fundraiser.

Minister Leanne Linnard draws out the raffle prizes at her business networking event at ACU.

Charis Mullen MP, Cameron Dick MP (State Treasurer), Mrs Usha Chandra, Umesh Chandra OAM, and Reg Neil at Minister Leanne Linnard's event

Bob Atkinson (former police commissioner), Mrs Usha Chandra, Neil Roberts (former Police minister), and Umesh Chandra OAM at Minister Leanne Linnard’s event.

Hon Cameron Dick Treasurer addresses the attendees at the Joe Kelly Business breakfast function. Multicultural community leaders attended Joe Kelly MP’s business breakfast at Stones Corner Hotel.

Line up of supporters who assisted with promoting the show organised by Aziz Popat and his team.

important events in the month of safar

By Ml.M.Nawaaz Ashrafi

AS discussed in our earlier post, the month of Safar is like all other Hijri months. Any Muslim who held a wrong misconception about the month must drop it, as there is no proof to back any claim.

Today, we are going to discuss about the major events that took place during the month of Safar. These events are significant to Islamic history and anyone who has an iota of doubt, on whether the month is conceived with bad luck and tragedies, the good events that took place during this month would be an eye opener for them.

IMPORTANT EVENTS IN THE MONTH OF SAFAR

There are important occasions that took place during the month of Safar, as oppose to the Jahiliyya misconception. Following are some of the events:

• The Battle of Abwaa (took place on Safar 12, in the year 2 AH)

• The Battle of Khaibar (took place in Safar in the year 7 AH)

• Khubaib Ibn Adey (R.A) was martyred in Safar in the year 4 AH

• Zaid Ibn Dathina (RA) was martyred in this month in the year 4 AH

• Khalid and 'Amr bin al'As Accept Islam on Safar 8th Hijri

• Hadhrat Ali (RA) married Prophet Muhammad’s (Peace be upon Him) daughter, Hadhrat Fatima (R.A) in the latter days of Safar in the year 2 AH

• Prophet Muhammad’s (Peace Be Upon Him) completion of marriage to Umm-Habibah (RA)

Good events and activities do happen in the month of Safar. And this shows that the moth is just as blessed. If the personality of our beloved Prophet, Muhammad (peace be upon him), can do good things – like the completion of his marriage to UmmHabibah – in the month of Safar, that shows just how pious the month of Safar is.

SUPERSTITION & THE MONTH OF SAFAR

All praises to Allawh (Sub haa nahoo wa Ta’aalaa) and choicest blessings upon our beloved Prophet Muhammud (Sallal law hu ‘alay hi wa sallam).

We are entering the second month of the lunar calendar. Sa-far with a “Sawd” either means ”

To turn yellow’ or ‘To be empty/vacant’ . It was in Autumn when the leaves turn yellow or the homes of the Arabs were empty of their menfolk, that this month was named Safar.

This month is also known as, Sa-farul Muzaf-far or Sa-fa-rul Khayr, which means, pr o s p e r o u s , successful, good fortune etc. This is to eradicate the corrupt beliefs of some people who say, the month

of Sa-far is bad-luck, evil, ill-omened, unfortunate etc., so marriages, major transactions etc. must not be conducted in this month.

Rasoolullawh eradicated all superstitious beliefs. Time, day, week, month, year is an estimation and effected by the will of Allawh . If anyone does good at anytime, he will be rewarded accordingly and the effects of evil and sins will be decided by Allah .

There are many periods of the lunar calendar and many places in the world where the rewards of good deeds are multiplied and has an adverse result with sins. Our intellect and understanding is limited, therefore we seek divine guidance from the Glorious Quraan and Ahaadees of Rasoolullah . Senior scholars have explained many things to us, in accordance to the Sha-ree’ah, which we must accept and adhere to, if we desire success in both worlds.

There is a host of corrupt beliefs regarding this month. True and sincere Muslims should refrain from them and engage in beneficial deeds. In reality, no time or individual is evil originally. All the customs and beliefs of Sa-far are baseless.

Many people have erroneous beliefs regarding this month i.e. it is a month of misfortune and calamities. The teachings of Allah Ta’ala and His Most Beloved Rasool (SallAllahu Alaihi wa Sallam) gives us clear guidelines on such incorrect beliefs.

Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) says in the Qur’an al-Kareem:

befalls except by Allah’s command...” [Surah Tagabun,

11]

These erroneous beliefs

have also been condemned in the context of the following Ahadith:

There is no superstitious owl, bird, no star-promising rain, no bad omen in the month of Safar.[Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 5707] لوغ

There is no bad omen in the month of Safar and no Ghouls (evil spirits). [Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2222]

The above Ahadith clearly refutes all incorrect beliefs and superstitions regarding the month of Safar. These incorrect beliefs flow from the preIslamic period of Jahiliyyah

THE MONTH OF SAFAR

DURING THE DAyS OF IGNORANCE

The Muhaddithin have recorded many of the superstitions harboured by the Arabs during the Days of Ignorance. A few are mentioned below:

1. The pre-Islamic Arabs believed Safar to be a snake which lives in the stomach of a human being and when hungry, bites the person. This is the discomfort one experiences when gripped by the pangs of hunger.

2. Some said Safar are worms which originate in the liver and ribs due to which the colour of the person becomes yellow, a condition we know today as jaundice.

3. According to some, the month of Safar flanked by Muharram and Rabi al Awwal is full of calamities and misfortune.

With the advent of Islam and the teachings of Sayyadina Rasoolullah (SallAllaho Alaihi wa Sallam), all evil and incorrect beliefs common in pre-Islamic times were discarded.

INCORRECT BELIEFS:

Today too, there are

w e A re entering the second month of the lun A r c A lendA r. sA -fA r with A “sAwd” either me A ns ” to turn yellow’ or ‘ to be empty/ vAc A nt’ . i t wA s in Autumn when the le Aves turn yellow or the homes of the Ar A bs were empty of their menfolk, th At this month wA s n A med sA fA r.

t his month is A lso known A s, sA -fA rul m uz A f-fA r or sA -fA -rul k h Ayr, which me A ns, pr o s p e r o u s , successful, good fortune etc.

t his is to er A dic Ate the corrupt beliefs of some people who s Ay, the month of sA -fA r is b A d-luck, evil, ill-omened, unfortun Ate etc., so m A rri Ages, m A jor tr A ns Actions etc. must not be conducted in this month.

some Muslims who hold incorrect beliefs regarding the month of Safar.

1. A nikah performed in this month would not be successful.

2. This month is full of misfortune and calamities.

3. To commence any important venture, business etc. during this month will bring bad luck.

4. The first to the thirteenth of Safar is illfortune and evil.

5. The person who distributes food or money on the 13th of Safar will be saved from its ill-fortune.

6. To celebrate the last Wednesday of Safar and regard it as a holiday.

WHAT TO DO:

1. To shun all types of erroneous beliefs regarding the blessed month of Safar.

2. To understand that the most unfortunate person is he who disobeys Allah Ta’ala’s commandments e.g. does not perform the five daily salaah etc. It is narrated in a hadith that Rasoolullah (SallAllaho Alaihi wa Sallam) said: “Pray, 0 Allah! Cause not anyone of us to be a wretched destitute.” He then asked: “Do you know who is a wretched destitute?” Upon the request of the Sahabah (Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhum)

he replied, “A wretched destitute is he who neglects his salaat.”

3. We should understand that all conditions which befalls us, good or bad, favourable, or unfavourable are from Allah Ta’ala, (as a result of our actions). Allah Ta’ala says: ” Whatever misfortune befalls you, it is due to the things your hands have wrought, and He forgives many a sin.” (Surah 42 – Verse 30).

THIS CAN ALSO BE CONFIRMED By THE FOLLOWING HADITH:

Sayyadina Jabir (Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu) has said that, “I have heard Sayyadina Rasoolullah (SallAllaho Alaihi wa Sallam) saying, the descending of illness and evil superstition befalling in the month of Safar is untrue.”

To believe that the Month of Safar is inauspicious, and particularly to believe that its first thirteen days are ‘bad luck’ or that it is harmful to marry or propose to marry or undertake a journey, etc., during these days are beliefs which are against the teachings of Islam.

In pre-Islamic days people considered the Month of Safar to be evil

and ominous. Rasoolullah Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam strongly rejected such beliefs and ideas.

The truth is that no time, day, month or date is in itself evil, but the deeds of people are either good or bad. The time spent in the performance of good deeds will be auspicious and the time spent in sin and the disobedience of Allah Ta’ala will be evil and ominous.

The Month of Safar is not ominous. Evil deeds and incorrect beliefs are ominous and should be given up and repented for.

It is incorrect to postpone or delay marriage or its proposal or a journey, etc. because of such beliefs.

Rejecting the false beliefs of the days of ignorance Rasoolullah Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam said, ‘Belief in illomen is Shirk (polytheistic) (he said this thrice) and the owl’s ominousness is nothing.’ The Mushriks of Arabia used to believe that a house near which an owl screeches will be ruined, hence, Rasoolullah Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam refuted this belief as false. Thereafter, he said, ‘There is nothing ominous about the Month of Safar’. (Bukhari vol.1 pg.857)

The polytheists believed the Month of Safar up to the 13th day to be inauspicious, hence, Rasoolullah Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam rejected this superstition. It is therefore wrong for Muslims, who are the followers of Rasoolullah Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam, to adopt the ways of the non-Muslims and to entertain the very beliefs which he had come to change.

May Allah Ta’ala grant all Muslims the ability to accept and practice upon all the beautiful teachings of Rasoolullah Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam, Aameen.

imPortaNce oF 12th raBi-ul-aWal

EID-E-MILAD-UN-NABI is celebrated by the Muslims in East and West on 12th Rabi-ul-Awwal with great devotion and reverence.

Rabi-ul-Awal is the third month of Islamic Lunar Calendar which holds great importance and significance in the lives of Muslims. The month of Rabi-ul-Awwal comes after Safar-alMuzaffar and is the most significant month in the Islamic history.

The whole Muslim world knows the month of Rabiul-Awwal as the month of birth of our Holy Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W). This is the month of celebration for the entire Muslim world, as Allah SWT blessed the world with the birth of His best creation in Rabi-ul-Awwal.

In celebration of Rabi-ulAwwal, Muslims all over the world urged to get together and arrange Mehfil-e-Naat and Mehfil-e-Zikr for the whole week. The 12th of Rabi-ul-Awwal is marked as the birth date of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, SallAllahu alayhi wa sallam, who is the last to be sent with the divine message for the guidance of humanity. Unlike the ways followers of other religions and faiths commemorate the births of their prophets, Muslims celebrate Eid-e-Milad un Nabi on 12th Rabi-ul-Awwal in which they gather to discuss the bounty and favor which Allah SWT has blessed the Muslims with by guiding

them to the righteous path of Islam and the teachings of Holy Quran and Sunnah of the final messenger of Allah.

The month of Rabi-ulAwwal is not exceptional for being the month of birth of our beloved Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him ), but it is the month in which our Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) began his journey of Hijrah and built the first Mosque of Islam, Masjid-e-Quba. Rabiul-Awwal is also significant, as the first Jummah prayer was established in this month.

The sacred day of 12th of Rabi-ul-Awwal is especially important to the Muslim world, because on this day Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him ) was born, who led humanity from darkness to light and who is described by Allah as “a mercy to all the worlds –Rehmat-ullil-Alimeen”.

Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi is celebrated by the Muslims in East and West on 12th Rabi-ul-Awwal with great devotion and reverence. The occasion like 12th Rabi-ul-Awwal is meant to remind people of how the Prophet lived his life and to rejuvenate their Iman.

Nowadays, the celebrations of such religious occasion like 12th Rabi-ul-Awwal is extremely important to instil values, ethics and moral code in youth, practiced by the

Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him ). The occasion of 12th Rabi-ul-Awwal serves a great purpose in that it brings the people closer to the teachings of Islam and to the Holy Prophet’s way of life. The sacred month of Rabi-ulAwwal causes the Muslims to remember the blessings of Holy Prophet and to fill their hearts with the love of the Prophet peace and blessings be upon him . It is the duty of every Muslim parent to tell the stories of Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him ) to their children on 12th Rabi-ul-Awwal that shed light on different aspects of his life.

The month of Rabi-ulAwwal marks the birth of Nabi Sallallaahu Alayhi Wa Sallam, the last and final prophet of Allah Ta’ala. A personality whose struggles and sacrifices, against every odd, were aimed at liberating and freeing not just a people, nor a nation, but instead humanity at large. What we allude to here is the monumental struggle, spanning 23 years of this impressive life in liberating humankind from the yokes and fetters of the constraints and oppressions of life itself. It is only in this regard that we afford the final prophet of Islam the appellation of “The greatest Saviour & Benefactor of mankind”.

Allah Ta’ala aptly reminds us in the Qur’aanul Kareem of His magnanimous favour

in sending Nabi Sallallaahu Alayhi Wa Sallam to mankind where He says:

“Indeed Allah had conferred a great favour on the believers when He sent among them a messenger from amongst themselves” (Sura Ale Imraan, verse 164).

When Allah Ta’ala created this world with all its resources and adornments He did not cite this as a favour upon mankind and nor did He cite as a favour upon mankind when He created mankind as His masterpiece and endowed him with the various faculties of intelligence, sight, perception etc. However, Allah Ta’ala deemed appropriate to remind mankind of His favour when He deputed Nabi Sallallaahu Alayhi Wa Sallam to mankind.

The reason behind this was that mankind was now conferred with a favour that would transform and change his very being and return to him his nobility, dignity and honour in the sight of his creator. Thus this reminder.

This favour will only be realized and regarded as a favour when one views the advent of Nabi Sallallaahu Alayhi Wa Sallam using the prevalent conditions of the time as a backdrop.

The advent of Nabi Sallallaahu Alayhi Wa Sallam occurred at a time when mankind had plunged themselves into

the very abysses and dungeons of depravation and degeneration. It is a hard-proven fact that this was the darkest era that had ever engulfed mankind and therefore it was rightfully tagged the “Days of Ignorance” or AyaamulJaahiliyaa. It was the mission of NabiSallallaahu Alayhi Wa Sallam to eradicate this darkness and usher mankind into the light of freedom and liberation. For 23 long and hard years this mission continued unabated. Its end result was that mankind was now free, liberated and most noteworthy became not just beacons of light, but light themselves. This fact is attested to in the Qur’aanul Kareem when Allah Ta’ala says:

“Allah was well pleased with them and they were well pleased with Him” (Suratul Bayyinah, verse 8)

It was only this struggle that brought about or gave birth to the glorious and golden era of Islam. An era that is well recorded in the annals of Islamic history as an era wherein mankind was nobly freed and liberated.

The sublime teachings of Nabi Sallallaahu Alayhi Wa Sallam unequivocally and glaringly spelt out:

• Freedom from oppression

• Freedom from superstition

• Freedom from atheism

• Freedom from paganism and idolatry

• Freedom from materialism

• Freedom from xenophobia and caste systems

• Freedom from exploitation and monopoly

• Freedom from animalism and barbarism.

Before concluding we ask ourselves, “Could there ever be a struggle more noble and laudable than one that taught mankind life and living according to the dictates of their creator?

Could there be another personality more lauded and celebrated than the one who changed and transformed the moral landscape of humankind?

It is only when the world views this struggle in its correct light and applies its teachings we would confidently say that mankind has attained true freedom and liberation!

May Allah Ta’ala grant the Ummah the Tawfiq of emulating His Nabi Sallallaahu Alayhi Wa Sallamin totality and make us realize that true allegiance to His noble Prophet Sallallaahu Alayhi Wa Sallam is not just the commemoration of the day of his birth but a lifetime of practical commemoration of his great life. Aameen

Let every Muslim make it his duty to introduce this great personality to the world!

the road to Freedom: allama mashriqi's historic Journey from amritsar to lahore

In a groundbreaking cinematic endeavor, the longawaited documentary "The Road to Freedom: Allama Mashriqi's Historic Journey from Amritsar to Lahore" will make its world premiere, providing a compelling and enlightening exploration of one of the most influential figures in the history of the Indian subcontinent, now comprising Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan. The film presents Allama Inayatullah Khan Al-Mashriqi, famously known as Allama Mashriqi, and his side of the story, offering a fresh perspective on the freedom movement and shedding light on his pivotal role in the demise of the British Raj in the region.

It is the story of a man who broke all previous academic records at the University of Cambridge, had his book, Tazkirah, nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature, and served as the Under Secretary of Education. He declined Knighthood and Ambassadorship, abandoning all luxury to become a freedom fighter, dedicated to liberating his nation from the shackles of oppressive British rule. During the struggle, he faced bans, restrictions, threats, physical attacks, imprisonments, and tortures. His wife, sons, daughters, and followers were not spared

from suppressive actions and were used to put pressure on Mashriqi to disband the Khaksar Movement. However, none of the aforementioned brutalities could waver him from his goal.

The Khaksar Movement, founded by Allama Mashriqi in 1930, rapidly gained popularity due to its core principles of equality, unity, discipline, service to humanity, self-cleansing, self-sufficiency, self-reliance, and its aim to free the nation from British colonialism.

It was the private army that empowered women in the 1930s when females in Europe and America were still striving for equal rights. They paraded in uniform, carrying spades, representing the dignity and power of the labor class on their shoulders. Mashriqi instilled in them tremendous courage, leading even veiled women, who were culturally expected to remain confined to their homes, to willingly come to the streets and fight for their nation's freedom.

A unique blend of spiritual, political, and military elements, the Khaksar Movement attracted a vast following among the masses.

The documentary showcases rare archival footage, historical photographs, and features

interviews with a Khaksar veteran and other experts, providing a vivid and comprehensive portrayal of the Khaksar Movement's rise and its significant role in the struggle for independence.

"The Road to Freedom" delves deep into the life, vision, and contributions of

Allama Mashriqi, revealing him not just as a worldfamous mathematician, logician, political theorist, esteemed scholar, visionary leader but as fearless freedom fighter. His unwavering dedication to the service of humanity and his relentless pursuit of

liberating his nation from the clutches of the British Raj are central themes that resonate throughout the narrative.

Produced in the United States of America by author Nasim Yousaf, a grandson of Allama Mashriqi, this extensive research-based film marks a monumental achievement in its genre. The contents of the documentary promises to enthrall viewers worldwide, particularly those interested in the history of the Indian sub-continent, the independence movement, and the partition of India, as well as Mashriqi and the Khaksar Movement's role in the freedom movement. It will be a great addition to the historiography of South Asian Studies and informative not only to the general public but enlightening for academics and students of history, journalists, writers, intellectuals, political analysts. It is expected to be shared or showcased by academics specializing in South Asian History, who will use it as a means to enlighten and educate their students about Mashriqi's perspective on the freedom movement and his crucial role in ending British rule. This momentous video would also be a great source of information for film and documentary makers with an interest on

producing big screen movies on freedom fighters.

The documentary is a testament to the enduring legacy of Allama Mashriqi and the Khaksar Movement, reminding us all that the pursuit of justice, unity, and humanity knows no boundaries.

The world premiere of "The Road to Freedom: Allama Mashriqi's Historic Journey from Amritsar to Lahore" is expected to be released on August 27, 2023 or after. The film will be available on social media platforms such as YouTube and Facebook, making it accessible to a global audience. Additionally, for platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter, which have video length restrictions, teasers or promos with basic information about the documentary will be provided. These platforms will offer sneak peeks, highlights, and intriguing facts related to the film, captivating audiences and encouraging them to explore the full-length feature available on other platforms.

A dedicated Facebook page has been launched for the interested viewers to seek information on it.

https://www.facebook. com/DocumentaryOnAl lamaMashriqi

What is Dharma?

By Shrii Shrii Anandamurti

HUMAN beings are the highest-evolved beings. They possess clearlyreflected consciousness, and this makes them superior to animals. No other being has such a clear reflection of consciousness. Human beings can distinguish between good and bad with the help of their consciousness, and when in trouble they can find a way out, with its help. No one likes to live in misery and suffering, far less human beings, whose consciousness can find means of relief. Life without sorrow and suffering is a life of happiness and bliss, and that is what people desire. Everyone is in quest of happiness; in fact it is people’s nature to seek happiness. Now let us see what one does to achieve it and whether it is achieved by those means.

In their search for happiness people are first attracted towards physical enjoyments. They amass wealth and try to achieve power and position to satisfy their desires for happiness. One who has a hundred rupees is not satisfied with it, one strives for a thousand rupees, but even possessing thousands of rupees does not satisfy. One wants a million, and so on. Then it is seen that a person having influence in a district wants to extend it over a province, provincial leaders want to become national leaders, and when they have achieved that there creeps in a desire for world leadership. Mere acquisition of wealth, power and position does not satisfy a person. The acquisition of something limited only creates the want for more, and the quest for happiness finds no end. The hunger for possessing is unending. It is limitless and infinite.

However dignified or lofty the achievement, it fails to set at rest people’s unlimited quest for happiness. Those who hanker after wealth will not be satisfied until they can obtain unlimited wealth. Nor will the seeker of power, position and prestige be satisfied until he or she can get these in limitless proportions, as all these are objects of the world. The world itself is finite and cannot provide infinite objects. Naturally, therefore, the greatest worldly acquisition, even if it be the entire globe, would not secure anything of an infinite and permanent character. What then is that infinite, eternal thing which will provide everlasting happiness?

The Cosmic Entity alone is infinite and eternal. It alone is limitless. And the eternal longing of human beings for happiness can only be satiated by realization of the Infinite. The ephemeral nature of worldly possessions, power and position can only lead one to the conclusion that none of the things of the finite and limited world can

set at rest the everlasting urge for happiness. Their acquisition merely gives rise to further longing. Only realization of the Infinite can do it. The Infinite can be only one, and that is the Cosmic Entity. Hence it is only the Cosmic Entity that can provide everlasting happiness – the quest for which is the characteristic of every human being. In reality, behind this human urge is hidden the desire, the longing, for attainment of the Cosmic Entity. It is the very nature of every living being. This alone is the dharma of every person.

The word dharma signifies “property”. The English word for it is “nature”, “characteristic” or “property”. The nature of fire is to burn or produce heat. It is the characteristic or property of fire and is also termed the nature of fire. Similarly, the dharma or nature of a human being is to seek the Cosmic Entity.

The degree of divinity in human beings is indicated by their clearly-reflected consciousness. Every human being, having evolved from animals, has, therefore, two aspects – the animal aspect, and the conscious aspect which distinguishes a person from animals. Animals display predominantly the animality, while human beings due to a well-reflected consciousness also possess rationality. The animality in human beings gives them a leaning towards animal life or physical enjoyment. They, under its influence, look to eating, drinking and gratification of other physical desires. They are attracted towards these and run after them under the influence of their animality but these do not provide happiness as their longing for it is infinite. Animals are satisfied with these limited enjoyments as their urge is not infinite. However large the quantity of things offered to an animal may be, it will take only those which it needs and will not bother for the rest. But humans will certainly act differently in these conditions. This only establishes that animals are satisfied with the limited, while the desire of human beings is limitless, although the desire for enjoyment in both is prompted and governed by the animal aspect of life. The difference in the two is due to the possession by the human being of a clearly-reflected consciousness, something which animals lack. The infinite nature of the human urge for absolute happiness is due to their consciousness alone. It is this consciousness alone which is not satisfied with the physical pleasure of possession, power and position – things which in spite of their huge proportions, are only transitory in character. It is their consciousness which creates in human beings the longing for the Cosmic

Entity.

The objects of the world – the physical enjoyments – do not quench the thirst of the human heart for happiness. Yet we find that people are attracted by them. The animality in people draws them towards gratification of animal desires, but the rationality of their consciousness remains ungratified since all these are transitory and shortlived. They are not enough to set at rest the unending and unlimited hunger of the human consciousness. There is, thus, a constant duel in humans between their animality and rationality. The animal aspect pulls them towards instant earthly joys, while their consciousness, not being satisfied with these, draws them towards the Cosmic Entity – the Infinite. This results in the struggle between the animal aspect and consciousness. Had the carnal pleasures derived from power and position been infinite and endless, they would have set at rest the eternal quest of consciousness for happiness. But they do not, and that is why the fleeting glory of temporal joys can never secure a lasting peace in the human mind and lead people to ecstasy.

It is only the wellreflected consciousness which differentiates human beings from animals. Is it then not imperative for human beings to make use of their consciousness? If their consciousness lies dormant behind their animality, people are bound to behave like animals. They in fact become worse than animals as, even though endowed with well-reflected consciousness, they do not make use of it. Such people do not deserve the status of human beings. They are animals in human form.

The nature of consciousness is to seek for the Infinite or realize the Cosmic Entity. Only those who make use of their consciousness and follow its dictates deserve to be called human beings. Therefore, every person, by making full use of his or her reflected consciousness, earns the right to be called a human being and finds his or her dharma or nature to be only the search for the Infinite or Cosmic Entity. This longing for the Infinite is the innate quality or dharma which characterizes the human status of people.

Happiness is derived by getting what one desires. If one does not get what one desires, one cannot be happy. One becomes sad and miserable. The clearlyreflected consciousness in people, which alone distinguishes them from animals, seeks the Cosmic Entity or the Infinite. And so people derive real happiness only when they can attain the Cosmic Entity or get into the process of attaining It. Consciousness does not

want earthly joys because being finite none of them satisfy it. The conclusion we arrive at is that the dharma of humanity is to realize the Infinite or the Cosmic Entity. It is only by means of this dharma that people can enjoy eternal happiness and bliss.

The characteristic or dharma of human beings is to attain Brahma. It is, therefore, necessary to see whether Brahma exists or not, as it would be futile to attempt to get something which does not actually exist. If Brahma exists, we must know what It is.

Every action a person performs, appears to have been executed by his or her physical organs, the indriyas. These organs or indriyas are ten. And it appears that almost every action that a person performs appears to have been performed because of these ten indriyas. Yet this is not actually so. If the mind does not work behind them, the indriyas by themselves cannot perform any action. It is the mind which works and the ten indriyas are merely the instruments through which the work is executed. The action which originates in mind only finds its external manifestation with the help of the indriyas. To explain this we can take the example of a person looking at a book. It is only the mind which visualizes the book with the help of the eyes. If the mind does not work the eyes will not be able to see the book. For instance, a person in an unconscious state because of anaesthesia or some other reason will not be able to see the book even if his or her eyes are wide open. In such an unconscious state the eyes are not damaged, yet they cannot perform their natural function because the contact with the mind is suspended. This is why under the influence of anaesthesia, the organs or indriyas do not function, although they remain in perfect order. Often, when we are absorbed in thought, we fail to notice a person or recognize a friend standing right in front of us. This is only because, in spite of our eyes being in perfect order and wide open, the mind, which actually performs all actions, does not make use of the indriyas, the eyes. It is the mind which works and the indriyas only help in its external manifestation.

If it is the mind only which works, let us see how it acts through these indriyas. For instance, looking at a book is an action which the mind performs with the help of the eyes. When the mind sees a book, what actually happens is that the mind, with the help of the eyes, takes the shape of something we call a book. This shape which the mind takes is different from the image which is formed on the retina, as the mind can see and become

like a book even when the eyes are closed; but the eyes cannot see when the mind does not function. So it is the mind which takes the form of a book during visual perception. This portion of the mind which takes the form of the book is termed citta or mind-stuff. But even if the citta takes the form of a book, there must be something other than the citta which does the work of seeing. The part of the mind which does the work of seeing is called ahamtattva or doer “I”. But “I” will not be able to see anything unless “I” exists. So there must be another part of the mind which is different from these two. This third part of the mind is the part which gives the feeling of “I” and is called mahattattva. Without the feeling of the existence of “I” or knowledge of the self, no action can be performed. This feeling of “I” or knowledge of the self comes from mahattattva or buddhitattva. The collective name for these three – citta, ahamtattva and mahattattva – is mind or antahkarańa or introversial psychic force. But these three portions of mind are only the outward manifestations of mind. It is with this mind that the action of seeing a book is performed, and this is termed psychic assimilation of rúpa tanmátra. Tanmátra is a new term and should be explained. The microscopic fraction of a wave radiated from an object and received by the indriyas is called tanmátra or inference. To explain this further, it can be said that the idea of a book is grasped with the help of rúpa tanmátra (the ideatory vibration of the nerves creates an image or figure in the mind) when one looks at the book. But if the eyes are closed or if one is in a dark place, one can still recognize the book by touch. Here the idea of the book is assimilated due to another tanmátra, that is, the tanmátra of touch or tactual perception. Again if someone drops a book out of sight or out of reach, it is possible to identify it as a book through the auditory tanmátra. Citta comes in contact with the tanmátras only when ahamtattva wants it to. The act of looking at or identifying the book must be done by ahamtattva as citta by itself does not possess the capacity to perform any function. When ahamtattva or the part of the mind which works wants to see a book, citta comes in contact with the organs of sight, that is, the eyes. The eyes receive the rúpa tanmátra from the book. This tanmátra which is always present in the environment in the form of waves, strikes against citta through the eyes, which form a sort of door to bring citta in contact with the outside world. Citta then takes the shape of the book, and ahamtattva identifies or sees it as per the shape which

citta has taken. Similarly, when ahamtattva wants to hear something it puts citta in contact with the organs of hearing, the ears. The ears receive the sound tanmátra, which is always present in the physical environment, through the medium of sound waves. Citta, on the impact of this tanmátra, becomes the sound itself, and ahamtattva hears that sound. This shows that citta takes the form of whatever ahamtattva desires or does.

To put it another way, citta manifests the actions which ahamtattva performs.

It has already been explained that citta, ahamtattva and mahattattva or buddhitattva constitute the mind. Citta only has the capacity to take the form which ahamtattva wants. Similarly ahamtattva only has the capacity to perform actions. It can only work. There must be something to make it work. That something is mahattattva or buddhitattva, which gives one the feeling of “I”. This feeling of “I” is derived from the mind and this “I” in the mind makes ahamtattva and citta perform their respective functions. Without this “I” it is not possible to feel or see a book even if, under the influence of ahamtattva, citta takes the shape of the book. But then this “I” is only a part of the mind. That is, there is another “I” which is the possessing “I”, or the “I” which knows that there is a mind. The existence of “I” in the mind only proves that there is another real entity which is beyond mind and which knows the existence of mind. This “I” which is the witnessing entity and witnesses the existence of mind and the existence of buddhitattva or the feeling of “I”, is called átman or unit consciousness. Thus through introspection and concentrated thinking one observes that átman and mind, that is, unit consciousness and mind, are two separate entities. Átman or unit consciousness and mind are two separate entities, yet they must be related to each other. In the first instance it appears that I am aware of my existence. Then the same “I” that appears to prove my existence makes me work, and a part of my mind called citta takes the form of the book through tanmátras to enable me to see the book. The “I” that gives me consciousness or the “I” which witnesses the existence of my mind and therein of the “I” which gives the feeling “I exist” is átman or unit consciousness. The “I” that gives the feeling of “I exist” and also proves the existence of átman or unit consciousness, is mahattattva. The “I” that works or sees the book is ahamtattva and the portion of mind that takes the shape of the book and enables ahamtattva to see it is citta.

CONTD. ON NEXT MONTH

classical concert season with Qsma

IT'S been a massive month for Indian classical music in Brisbane. Following on from the sublime concert by sarangi maestro Sangeet Mishra in June, July saw another international visitor, US sitar Maestro Sri Josh Feinberg, followed by the biggest-ever Ashu Babu Memorial Tabla School Concert.

On Saturday, July 1, in Sunnybank Church of Christ Hall, Qld Sangeet Mela Association (QSMA) presented an evening of Hindustani classical music, which ended with our firstever standing ovation, such was the sublime power for Josh Feinberg's sitar.

The evening opened with a heartwarming and charming performance by father and son duo Raghunath and Rugved Pawar, accompanied on harmonium by Joseph Nand and tabla by Pankaj Navlekar. Rugved began with a tarana in Raga Hamsadhwani, Madhya lay ektaal followed by a bandish in the very interesting 14beat ara chautaal. Raghunath followed with Raga Bairagi in addha taal, and the duo closed their performance by singing a bhajan together in Malkauns, bhajani taal.

Then followed the divine sitar of Sri Josh Feinberg, so reminiscent of the great Pt Nikhil Banerjee of Maihar Gharana. Josh’s alap made time stand still, and his taans and jhala thrilled. I witnessed 3 of Josh's performances over

By Shen Flindell (QSMA Secretary)

the weekend, and his alap held the whole audience spellbound every single time. In Sunnybank, Josh performed Raga Poorvi: alap, jor, jhaptaal, teentaal, followed by Manj Khammaj in rupak taal, and finally, Bhairavi. As well as the traditional Maihar Gharana sitar style, Josh introduced his innovations, such as harmonised lines on two strings, harmonics, and chromatic explorations. The standing ovation was well deserved, and we were fortunate to witness such talent.

A couple of weeks later saw the 16th Ashu Babu Memorial Tabla School Concert being held at Qld Multicultural Centre in Kangaroo Point on the afternoon of Saturday, July 15. Since our tabla school's humble beginnings, the concert has grown to the scale of a Sangeet Mela. This year's concert featured 40 tabla players along with performers on sitar, bansuri, venu (South Indian flute) and vocal, over 4 hours of performances along with a few intervals to stretch the legs. Despite the concert's length, the devotional atmosphere in celebration of Guru Purnima and the variety of acts with tabla groups alternating with raga performances resulted in time passing very quickly for all involved.

The first session opened with a bhajan dedicated to Guru by Rugved Pawar, followed by a beginner’s

tabla quintet, sitar by Anju Ketheeswaran, the junior tabla 9-piece group. It closed with venu (Carnatic flute) recital by Murali Ramakrishnan.

The second session opened with a vocal by young Mishri Gandhi, followed by an adult’s tabla quintet, sitar by Dr

Indranil Chatterjee, tabla solo in one-hand style by Varun Lal, and closed with a bansuri recital by Darshil Shah. The third session featured two intermediate tabla sextets, alternating with a Carnatic vocal duet by Dorairajan brothers accompanied by

Premraj brothers, and closing with a recital by Australia's leading bansuri master, Sri Vinod Prasanna. The final session consisted of a fulllength Benares-style tabla recital by guru Shen Flindell and his top 7 students.

Many thanks to all our

supporters and sponsors, including Brisbane Indian Times and Australian Indian Radio.

The next QSMA programme will be held on Saturday, 16 September, in Sunnybank Church of Christ Hall with Sri Vinod Prasanna.

aadi Koozh offering and upcoming onam celebrations at gchca

IN the heart of the Gold Coast, amidst the vibrant energy of the Education and Cultural Precinct, the Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Association (GCHCA) hosted the Aadi month Koozh offering celebration. The atmosphere was electric with anticipation as the community gathered to honour the significance of this special time in the Tamil calendar.

The event commenced with sacred chants, seeking the blessings of Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. The rhythmic beats of the Kummi dance and the ululation of kulavai reflected the vibrant spirit of Tamil culture. The soulful bhajan that followed, led by the gifted voices of Aarty Shammbhasivam, Jasmine Subashini, Geethanjali, Thanaletchumi, Sharvini, Subramaniam Chandra, and Gomathi Rajarathinam, touched the hearts of all present, transporting them to a realm of divine serenity. The melodies carried the essence of devotion, weaving a sense of unity among the devotees.

In a heartwarming tribute to the diversified heritage of Tamil and Hindu cultures, Vishnu uncle, an esteemed member of the Fijian community, graced the gathering with a lullaby song (thaalaattu) dedicated

to the goddess accompanied by the mystical sounds of the udukkai (Damaru).

The highly anticipated Koozh was offered with kozhukkattai and panagam. With great reverence, the special porridge, Koozh, prepared exclusively during the month of AADI, was presented as a tribute to the divine Goddess Amman. The festivities included the offering of a traditional South Indian lunch. Devotees delighted in the delicious spread, savouring each bite while cherishing the company of their fellow worshippers—the Kozhukkattai and refreshing panagam perfectly balanced flavours, signifying the richness of life's experiences.

This Gold Coast Hindu Association's event served as a spiritual feast and a reminder of the universal values that unite humanity, such as love, harmony, and reverence for life. The Aadi month 'Koozh' offering hosted by GCHCA exemplified the essence of unity and devotion for all who participated in this joyous celebration.

The next celebration at GCHCA is the Onam celebrations on 20th August 2023 at the precinct located at 15 Byth St, Arundel. The Onam celebration will start at 9 am with Maha Yagya, followed by cultural

performances, including Thiruvathira dance, and will end with a delicious "Onam Sadhya."

Onam is a time to welcome the harvest festival and the homecoming of the Hindu mythological King Mahabali. It was in Mahabali’s reign when Kerala witnessed a golden period. King Mahabali did not discriminate between his people based on religion or caste. Therefore, the Onam

tradition is not exclusive to any religion.

Please register via the following Eventbrite link: https://www.eventbrite. com.au/e/686410511317

More details about this event and activities will be available on their website http://culture. goldcoasthindu.org or please contact them via gchcan@gmail.com.

chinmaya mission Brisbane presents Dance Pe chance garba

Night 2023

CHINMAyA Mission is an international organisation committed to providing individuals from any background with the wisdom of Vedanta and practical means for spiritual growth and happiness, enabling them to become positive contributors to society.

Chinmaya Mission Brisbane started in 2008 and has now expanded to three locations in Brisbane, providing Balavihar classes (children aged 4-11), Junior Chinmaya Yuvakendra (CHYKs-high school children), CHYKs (young adults) and adult classes. Recently we have purchased land to build our very own cultural centre for the community's wellbeing.

To fundraise for our new cultural centre, the Brisbane CHYKs will be throwing their second garba night at Coorparoo Secondary College on the 1st of October 2023, themed Dance Pe Chance. Garba night will be a night filled with food for the soul, to give you the drive to dance and is sure to create memories that will last a lifetime. We will also have henna stalls, photo booths,

delicious food, and Garba tutorials to get you moving the right way on the dance floor.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE

SEE BELOW:

Ticket Prices:

• General Admission: $15 (5 and under is free)

• Family Pack: $50 (2 adults, 2 children)

• Food: Savoury Pack (Samosa, Tandoori Tofu Wraps, Pakoras, Chai) $10

Sweet Pack (Rava Laddus, Kesari, Gulab Jamun) $5

*Henna will be available for sale on the day; food can be preordered

Please feel free to contact us at:

Email: chykbrisbane@ gmail.com

Simran Shah (0432 671 137) Hertisha Govender (0406 263 193)

DJJs hosts mata Ki choWKi 2023 at uPPer coomera ceNtre

DIVyA Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan

Qld Inc (DJJS) organised

MATA KI CHOWKI on 16th

July 2023 at Upper Coomera Centre, Upper Coomera. The event brought to light what Mata ki Chowki means, stands for and its significance in our spiritual journey. The event taught us in great depth about Life, Practical spirituality, and this treasure of God called the Human garb through interesting anecdotes and reverberating devotional music. To the joy of the attendees, the evening constituted an enthralling and energetic dance performance by young kids, which was even more pleasing to the eyes.

The auspicious evening was marked by a really good number of attendees from the community. Here we would like to give a special mention to the Education Embassy, our main supporters of the event. We are also very grateful to our very important guests and sponsors, who are known by all in the community and have been long associates of DJJS.

Mrs Pinky Singh OAM, Mr Umesh Chandra OAM, Mrs Usha Chandra, Mr Sourabh Agarwal, Mr and Mrs Parveen Gupta, Mrs Tanvi Goel, Mr Manish Saini, Mr Baldev Larohiya

and Mr Naren Singh. Our proud sponsors are River City Lawyers, Australian Accounting and Tax Officers, CAABA Accountant, ADJ Jewelers, SPAR Edens Landing, OZ Labour Force, AusIndia Travel, Ginger Indian Grocer, Curry Express, Platinum Event Services Gold Coast, Onestop Indian Groceries, Y Company, Accure Tax Accountants and Bookkeepers, ICAA, Queensland Gujrati, Namaskar Gujrat, ICGC, Brisbane Friends Group, HWAA, Punjabi Taste and Bombay Bliss and our Media partners Australian Indian Radio and Brisbane India times. We can’t thank them enough for being there and supporting us in our effort.

To conclude, I would pay my humble salutations in the Lotus feet of my

revered master His Holiness Ashutosh Maharaj Ji, who is the Head and Founder of Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan (DJJS), without whom none of this would have been possible. He is the source of strength and the guiding light for every volunteer who was present there.

ABOUT DJJS:

Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan, or DJJS as we call it, is a registered sociospiritual, not-for-profit organisation. DJJS’s Vision is from ‘From Self Awakening to Global Peace.

Our Vision is “To usher into a world wherein every individual becomes an embodiment of truth, fraternity, and justice through the eternal science of self-realisation called Brahm Gyan, uprooting all

social evils and threats in its wake. 'Brahm Gyan’ is an eternal technique through which we can practically experience and realise God.

And these are not mere words DJJS has been steadfast on its mission for 31 years, with millions of volunteers in India and around the Globe.

DJJS is doing and has done several social and spiritual events with the Government of India and other state

governments in India.

IN AUSTRALIA:

DJJS has been actively working in the community for more than 12 years now. It has been organising and participating in various social, cultural, and spiritual events like Shiv Aaradhna, Mata Ki Chowki, Bhajan Sandhya, Sai Sandhya, Indian New Year, Krishan Janamasthmi across

different cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide and here in Brisbane. Furthermore, we have been organising the International Day of Yoga for the last six years now, and our event pictures of 2019 were even shared by the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, from his Twitter account. Thank you very much to everyone who took the time to be at this divine evening.

Brisbane shree Venkatesa Durga temple commemorates 3rd anniversary, acknowledging historic milestone in indian government

BRISBANE West's Shree Venkatesa Durga Temple marked a momentous occasion as it celebrated its third year since its establishment, highlighting a significant milestone within the Indian Government.

Situated at 57A Kenmore Rd Kenmore, the revered temple issued a letter of appreciation to the Indian Prime Minister, Hon. Narendra Modi, along with the esteemed Parliament. The letter came in the wake of the invocation of the sacred

"Sengol" (sceptre) within the Indian Parliament, an extraordinary artifact once

handed to India's first Prime Minister following British Colonial rule.

The temple's letter of appreciation emphasised the widespread impact of this event on the global Hindu community. The Sengol, with Nandhi occupying the pinnacle of its structure, holds immense religious significance, and its presence within the national Parliament of India offered Hindus worldwide a sense of profound identification with their country's governance.

In a heartwarming display of solidarity, devotees were cordially invited to add

their signatures to the letter, expressing unwavering support for the recognition of Hinduism in a national governing body. The signing campaign spanned from the auspicious day of 25th June (Aani Uthiram) to the grand Temple Anniversary on 9th July, garnering an astounding 100 signatures from devoted supporters.

During the peak of the Anniversary celebrations, the letter was officially handed over to the respected Hon. Consul of India, Smt. Archana Singh, honoured

the event with her presence and conveyed sincere words of encouragement to the Indian Community.

The Shree Venkatesa Durga Temple's thirdanniversary celebration is a testament to the enduring cultural ties of those who follow Hinduism. With the stirring acknowledgment of this historic milestone in the Indian Government, the temple continues to serve as a radiant symbol of faith, unity, and reverence in Brisbane. brisbanedurgatemple.com

BLOOD DONATION DRIVE

– 18TH JUNE 2023

On 18th June 2023, Shirdi Sai Sansthan Brisbane, in collaboration with Australian Red Cross & Springwood Blood Donor Centre, organised a Blood Donation drive on 18th June 2023.

This was organised during the National Blood Donor Week from 12-18th June 2023.

The drive saw many Sai Devotees turn up to volunteer and donate blood towards the betterment of society. Shirdi Sai Sansthan has regularly organised Food Donation drives at the Roma Street Parklands every month. The devotees can join and support such initiatives by providing their Service to the community. Those who are not able to join, they may contribute towards such noble initiatives.

GURU PURNIMA CELEBRATIONS – 8TH

JULy 2023

Guru Purnima is a celebration of Rishi Ved Vyas’s birthday. This day celebrates the pious relationship between a Guru & a student.

This year, the Sansthan organised a grand Guru Purnima celebration on the 8th of July. This was attended by over 300+ devotees from a multi-cultural diaspora of Brisbane. The celebrations started at 8 am and ended at 8 pm; the devotees rejoiced in Bhajans by devotees & Sai Bhajan Group from North, Vedic Chants, Sai Satcharitra, Vishnu Shahastranamam, Sai Charan Paduka Pooja, Sai Abhishekam & Cultural dances by Smt Manga teacher. Devotees could also purchase Sai vastra as an offering for the Baba Moorty. The committee also encouraged young children

shirdi sai sansthan Brisbane

to host a small part in the evening - Sai messages –every devotee picked up a chit to receive a message from Sai Sat Charitra.

A devotee provided over 500 kg of Onions and Potatoes, distributed freely to all the devotees who came for blessings and darshan throughout the day.

Prasad was provided throughout the day. In the evening, just before the Aarti, the devotees danced with a Sai Palkhi. All of the above celebrations were conducted, keeping the COVID-safe guidelines into consideration at the Coopers Plains State School.

This year as a special announcement, the Committee members made special announcements in the first and second half. The announcements made were towards the progress of the Temple project. The Committee openly displayed its current earnings and expenses report, giving all Sai Devotees transparency of its current financial status.

This was important as the Sansthan had undertaken the temple construction project. Another appeal was made to all devotees to support this cause and donate generously.

Sai Sansthan has made donations very affordable under different schemes to suit every one. The Devotees of Sai can take any one or more of the following fundraising schemes.

(1) $25,000 Major sponsorship scheme

(2) $20,000 Sai Punyavachan Scheme

(3) $10,000 Sai Kalpataru Scheme

(1) $5,000 Sai Ashtotram scheme

(2) $2,500 Sai Sahasranama scheme

(3) $1000 Sai Sankalp Scheme

(4) $504 Donate a square meter land

(5) $51 monthly automatic debit payment

(8) $21 monthly automatic debit payment

(6) $21 for each brick (5 bricks minimum )

(7) No amount is small -donate whatever you can afford

Sai Sansthan is actively looking for volunteers across all of Brisbane to come up and start supporting the Temple fundraising drive. This is your temple, and let us work towards it.

SAI BABA TEMPLE IN BRISBANE – ESTIMATED TO BE CONSTRUCTED By JULy 2024

With Baba’s blessings and your help from the donations, the Sai Sansthan has acquired 2 acres of land, 2-14 Scrubby Creek Road, Browns Plains -4118

The committee is happy to share with you all that, as of date, they have a land loan of just $30,000. But we have received $30,000 commitments from a few Sai devotees, and we can ultimately pay off the current loan by the end of July.

The Committee finalised the building master draft plan with the Building Designer on 19th July. The designer will provide a master plan. Hopefully, other consultants, including town planners, civil engineers, ecologists, bushfire experts and hydraulic experts, will submit their reports by the end of next week.

The Committee plans to submit a master copy to the council by midAugust. Expecting to get DA approval by mid of September and BA approval by middle of October.

Once they receive BA approval, they will need to start construction and complete the project asap. To do this, the committee would need funds and generous donations to complete the project.

Raising the required funds for the project is possible if everyone’s family and friends support this NOBLE cause.

The Committee are also discussing with the financial institutions to obtain additional loans. The banks are asking to contribute large initial deposits and demonstrate proof of serviceability. Hence this goes out as a humble request with folded hands to commit and take any one or more of the following fundraising schemes.

(1) $25,000 Major sponsorship scheme

(2) $20,000 Sai Punyavachan Scheme

(3) $10,000 Sai Kalpataru Scheme

(1) $5,000 Sai Ashtotram scheme

(2) $2,500 Sai Sahasranama scheme

(3) $1000 Sai Sankalp Scheme

(4) $504 Donate a square meter land

(5) $51 monthly automatic debit payment

(8) $21 monthly automatic debit payment

(6) $21 for each brick (5 bricks minimum )

(7) No amount is small -donate whatever you can afford

TREE PLANTATION

DRIVE – LOGAN 30TH JULy

Logan City Council is celebrating NATIONAL TREE DAY with a community planting. They will be planting 1500 native plants to assist revegetation along the waterway at Crestmead Park on Sunday 30th July 2023 from 8.00 am to 10.00 am at 35a Royena Court, Crestmead.

This event is perfect for the whole family! Council will bring the plants, equipment and also provide FREE morning tea. Shirdi Sai Sansthan is participating in this event and inviting our devotees to join with family and support the noble cause. Important information: Please wear enclosed footwear, sun protection and bring along drinking water.

There is onsite parking available at the Gimlet Street entrance of Crestmead Park; pedestrian access to the planting site will be signed. If interested in participating, please text your names to 0449 96 94 95.

The committee has also secured an SAI HELPLINE no: 1800 SAI BABA (1800 724 2222)

ssi and Qmc hold a “how to Vote seminar”

THE Voice referendum will be happening this year, and there will also be local government elections in March 2024. Our communities, mainly recent citizens or soon-tobe citizens must understand what voting means and how they can participate.

Hence SSI collaborated with Queensland Multicultural Council and Electoral Commission Queensland to run a free voting workshop on 13th July from 5:30 to 7:30 pm at the SSI Gateway in Logan Central.

Milton Dick, Federal Speaker of the House, presented his role and that of the parliament sitting. Refreshments were provided. Representatives of the electoral commission ran mock voting and demonstrated the process, including the preferential counting; quite interesting to see the process, especially the count, which follows an

elimination process based on preferences. Former Queensland speaker John Mickel spoke on the electoral and voting process.

Kenny Duke of SSI was the Mc for the event, and Umesh Chandra OAM representing Queensland Multicultural Council, introduced Hon Milton Dick MP Federal Speaker. Both Kenny Duke and Umesh Chandra OAM

spoke about their respective organisations.

After the very informative and interactive session,

Queensland Multicultural Council presented a certificate of Appreciation to SSI, a former state

हो

ग्या है कक भारत की स्ववोचच

ऊँची कससी , प्रधाि मंत्ी तक की

बेइज़जती करते रहते ह। अैसा

दव्य्ष्वहार दनि्या म कोई व्वपक्ष

िही करता है।

व्वपक्ष अपिी सटे ट के कक्रनत्यों

पर सफद चादर ढक देते ह पर

सता पक्ष के हर अचछे बरे का्य्ष पर

हंगामा करते ह। भारत

speaker of the house John Mickel, Honourable Milton Dick and the Electoral Commission.

Shree Krishna Janamastami

Friday 1st September till Wed 6th of Sept 2023. Pravachan by Dharam Guru Pundit Tripathi Ji Everyone is invited to please join in this celebration

Time: Mon to Friday 6:30pm onwards. Saturday and Sunday 5:30pm Onwards

Food will be provided every day. Shree Krishna Ji Ka Janam Utsha v at: Sharp 8:00pm on Wed, 6th of August

Celebrated with Kirtans, Sohar & Garba Then Bhog & Maha Prasad will be served

Food Sponsor $400.00

'have patience…': hindu side as asi's gyanvapi mosque survey in Varanasi underway. top updates

LAWyERS said the primary stage of the court-ordered survey of Gyanvapi mosque has been finished and secondary stage was underway with “machines”.

A team of 55 members from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) resumed the scientific survey of the Gyanvapi mosque complex on Sunday morning to determine if the 17th-century masjid was constructed over a preexisting structure of a Hindu temple. A heavy police force was also deployed in the area before the arrival of the ASI team.

Rapid Action Force personnel outside the Gyanvapi Mosque complex in Varanasi on Sunday.

(Rajesh Kumar/HT)

Rapid Action Force personnel outside the Gyanvapi Mosque complex in Varanasi on Sunday.

(Rajesh Kumar/HT)

Lawyers said that the primary stage of the court-

ordered survey of the Gyanvapi complex has been finished and the secondary stage was underway with “machines” including radars.

The survey was halted at 12.30pm for two hours as Muslim devotees will offer prayers in the mosque.

TOP UPDATES ON THE GyANVAPI MOSQUE

COMPLEX SURVEy By ASI:

1. Advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain and advocate Subhash Nandan Chaturvedi, representing the Hindu side in the Gyanvapi case, are present in the survey.

2."Have patience. It is the fourth day of the survey. The ASI is doing its work in a very fine way. Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) was used yesterday. The ground penetrating radar machine will be used for survey in the coming time," said Jain said. "We are satisfied with the survey and the Muslim side has no

complaints and they also cooperating," he added.

3. The scientific survey of the complex, adjacent to Kashi Vishwanath Temple, excluding Wuzu Khana, resumed on Friday, following Allahabad high court's order, which allowed the ASI to conduct the survey, to determine if the mosque was built on a preexisting temple.

4. Plaintiff number 1 Rakhi Singh's advocate Anupam Dwivedi said, "This ASI survey is different from

that was done by advocate commissioner last year (in May 2022). In that survey, whatever was visible was mentioned in the report. No one was allowed to touch anything. The ASI team is doing the survey in a scientific manner. The team is collecting evidence, without any digging and without causing any harm".

5. On Sunday, the ASI team is likely to conduct the survey under the domes of the mosque premises. At present, the survey

was going on in the south basement of Gyanvapi where the team conducted the survey on Saturday afternoon.

6. Earlier on Saturday, Sudhir Tripathi, another advocate representing the Hindu side, said that the scientific survey will clear everything. "We want people to cooperate in the survey and get it completed as soon as possible. We are showing full cooperation and involvement. They have come at the direction of the Supreme Court. We welcome it. We want the matter to be resolved soon. The survey will clarify everything," the lawyer said.

7. The Allahabad High Court on Thursday dismissed the plea filed by the Muslim party, Anjuman Intezamia Masjid Committee, challenging the Varanasi court order allowing the ASI to conduct a scientific survey of the Gyanvapi mosque premises,

except the 'Wazukhana' area where a “Shivling” was claimed to have been found last year. The Anjuman Intezamia Masjid Committee had challenged the Varanasi District Judge's July 21 order.

8. On July 21, Varanasi district judge AK Vishvesha ordered the ASI survey of the Gyanvapi complex on an application moved by four Hindu women on May 16. The order of the district judge, however, excluded the Wuzu Khana (ablution pond area) of the complex, which has been sealed on the order of the Supreme Court.

9. Earlier on Friday, the Supreme Court declined to stay the ASI survey of the Gyanvapi mosque premises in Varanasi.

10. The Anjuman Intezamia Masjid Committee had challenged the high court order allowing ASI to conduct a scientific survey by ASI of the Gyanvapi mosque premises.

NDA partner Kuki People's Alliance (KPA) withdraws support from N Biren Singh government in Manipur, PTI reported. The Kuki People's Alliance has two MLAs in the Manipur Assembly, Kimneo Haokip Hangshing from Saikul and Chinlunthang from Singhat.

The BJP has 32 members in the Manipur Assembly, while it has support of five NPF MLAs and three independent legislators.

The opposition legislators include seven from the NPP, five from the Congress and six from JD(U).

KPA's decision to walk out of the ruling alliance comes at a time when the government headed by Biren Singh continues to be under fire over its inability to control the violence which has killed more than 160 people.

“After careful consideration of the current conflagaration, the continued

support for the incumbent government of Manipur led by chief minister N Biren Singh is no longer fructuous. Accordingly, the support of the KPA to the Government of Manipur as hereby withdrawn and can be considered null and void”, a leader to governor Anusuiya Uikey read.

Violent clashes had erupted in Manipur after a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ was organised in the hill districts on May 3 to protest against the Metei community's demand for scheduled tribe (ST) status.

The clashes erupted after tensions over the eviction of Kuki villagers from the reserve forest land. Meiteis account for about 53 per cent of Manipur's population and live mostly in the Imphal Valley. On the other hand, tribals like Nagas and Kukis constitute another 40 per cent of the population and reside in the hill district.

CONGRESS intensifies call to reinstate Rahul Gandhi as MP after Supreme Court stays his conviction,

The Congress has intensified its call to reinstate Rahul Gandhi as a member of Parliament after the Supreme Court stayed his conviction in a criminal defamation case. While it took less than 24 hours to notify Rahul Gandhi's disqualification from the lower house when he was sentenced to two years in jail, the Lok Sabha secretariat is yet to issue a notification restoring Gandhi's MP status after the apex court's Friday order.

Congress general secretary KC Venugopal said that Gandhi should be in Parliament on Monday as a “natural consequence” of the court order, asserting that the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party cannot “drag its feet” anymore.

“Sh.@RahulGandhiji’s conviction was stayed on Friday. As a natural consequence, he should be in Parliament tomorrow. The

BJP cannot drag it's (sic) feet anymore, over 48 hours have passed since the Supreme Court verdict,” Venugopal posted on X, formerly Twitter.

“Any further delay in issuing the necessary notification will be going against the spirit of the SC order. As the SC rightly noted, his disqualification is not a personal matter but something that impacts the democratic rights of the people of Wayanad.”

Earlier today, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut claimed the Union

government was afraid of Rahul Gandhi and that is why the Congress leader is yet to be reinstated as Lok Sabha MP.

"The swiftness with which he was disqualified as MP is not being seen after the SC staying the conviction.

Three days have passed but the Lok Sabha Speaker is yet to reinstate him," Raut told reporters.

A copy of the Supreme Court order has been formally handed over to the Lok Sabha Secretariat, Congress leader in the Lok Sabha Adhir

Ranjan Chowdhury said on Saturday.

Chowdhury too conveyed his disappointment over the Lok Sabha Secretariat’s response to his request that Gandhi should be immediately reinstated, so that he can participate in the no-confidence motion against the Modi government, which begins on August 8.

“The speed with which he was disqualified, it is important to reinstate him with the same speed. I called up Speaker sahib last night and told him that I want to submit the court documents to you to facilitate Rahul Gandhiji’s return to the House. He then advised me to call him up this morning,” Chowdhury told reporters at a press conference.

A Lok Sabha official told HT that the process to reinstate Gandhi’s membership is likely to start on Monday.

The Congress party has called for a meeting of its Lok Sabha MPs in the party's parliamentary office at 10:30am tomorrow.

NDa partner KPa withdraws support from Biren singh govt in manipur: report

on rahul gandhi's mP status, congress says ‘BJP cannot drag its feet anymore’

‘i am sorry…’: Who is Justice rohit Deo and why did he resign as Bombay high court judge?

Justice Rohit B Deo of the Nagpur bench of the Bombay high court reportedly resigned saying he could not compromise on self-respect.

FOCUS ON FIJI

Winter heat wave in chile offers ‘window’ to warmer world

SANTIAGO (Reuters)

– A winter heat wave bringing historically high temperatures to Chile is a “window” to an increasingly warm future, according to scientists.

Globally, July was already the hottest month on record and the first days of August brought a heat wave to parts of northern and central Chile, bringing springlike weather to the capital in the dead of the Southern Hemisphere winter.

“In a way, this is a window into the future, we are seeing conditions that are going to normalize,” said Martin Jacques, a climatologist and professor at Chile’s University of Concepcion. “What now seems very extreme could

gradually become more and more normal in a few years.”

“Having temperatures of 37 degrees (99 degrees Fahrenheit) in the middle of southern winter is

extraordinary,” said Raul Cordero, a climatologist at the University of Santiago.

“It is a temperature anomaly of almost 15 degrees above typical values and

unfortunately it is not a local problem, it is a global problem.”

Jacques said that while some of the temperature increase is expected during

council aware of businesses rounding-off transaction amounts

THE Consumer Council of Fiji says it is aware that there are businesses engaging in unauthorised practice of rounding-off transaction amounts.

Council CEO Seema Shandil said a number of consumers had raised concerns regarding this unfair practice employed by certain businesses when processing transactions through e-platforms such as mobile money wallets and electronic funds transfer at point of sale (EFTPOS).

She said consumers had complained that when they paid via digital platforms, some businesses had been rounding off transaction

amounts, resulting in consumers paying more than the actual price.

Ms Shandil reminded all businesses that such practices were unacceptable and directly violated consumer rights.

She said rounding-off transaction amounts not only led to financial loss for consumers but also eroded trust and confidence in digital payment systems.

“Businesses are legally obligated to

conduct transactions in a transparent and fair manner, accurately reflecting the exact value of goods and services provided,” Ms Shandil said.

“Consumers have the right to be informed and aware of the precise amounts they are being charged, especially in the increasingly prevalent digital economy.

“As the apex consumer protection agency in Fiji, the Council takes these complaints seriously and will not hesitate to take necessary actions against any business found engaging in such practices – including naming and shaming them.”

Police find students swimming during school hours

THIRTEEN students from years 7 to 13 from different schools in the Southern Division were found swimming at the Kalabu waterfalls during school hours on Thursday.

Divisional Police

Commander South Senior Superintendent of Police Wate Vocevoce had directed the officers to conduct patrols in the area following concerns raised by members of the public about students swimming and gathering in the said location during and after school hours.

SSP Vocevoce said having found children at the site during school hours posed great concerns and

are pleading with parents and guardians to speak to their children on the need to be in school and to head straight home after.

Police said the respective principals were informed and the students’ parents were contacted.

SSP Vocevoce said the operations team had come across similar worrying gatherings of children when conducting patrols within the Southern Division.

He said the operations team would continue to ask children to return home, calling for parental and guardians’ support in the protection and well-being of students.

this time of the year due to atmospheric circulation, these extreme temperatures have been exacerbated by El Nino and an increasingly warming planet.

He added that while it’s often hard to establish a connection between extreme weather events and climate change, temperatures in parts of Chile have been breaking records year after year.

“It’s a pretty robust sign of warming,” Jacques said. “The connection between temperature and long-term climate change is much more evident.”

The winter season has been eventful in Chile, with the most intense rainstorms in decades leaving thousands homeless,

isolated towns and blocked roads in the south-central area of the country.

Many hope the rains would help the replenish the country’s water reservoirs after more than a decadelong drought, but Jacques described the situation as “quite fragile” as long as snow in the Andes isn’t being replaced.

“Winter hightemperature events do affect the spring flow rate that can be expected from melt,” Jacques said.

According to the latest service reports, high temperatures in the north and center of the country will last all week.

(Reporting by Jorge Vega, Natalia Ramos and Alexander Villegas)

By ANDREA SHALAL RUMFORD, Maine

(Reuters) – U.S. Veterans Affairs Secretary Denis

McDonough urged veterans across the country to apply by Wednesday to get an extra year of retroactive benefits under a new law passed last year to aid veterans sickened by gases from military toxic burn pits.

McDonough told dozens of veterans in Rumford, Maine, they could get an additional year of benefits worth up to thousands of dollars per month if they filed a claim, or their intention to do so, by Aug. 9. Claims can still be filed after that, but will only take effect from the date the claim is filed.

“War is hell,” McDonough said. “What we know now is exposure to those burn pits, and exposure to particulate matter, especially in the deserts of Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Afghanistan … has real health effects on our veterans.”

McDonough is taking

part in a travel blitz by senior cabinet members and President Joe Biden to tout the benefits of the veterans law, or PACT Act, and other legislation enacted during Biden’s tenure.

He said more than 800,000 veterans across the country had applied for the benefits, with some 450,000 claims already assessed and 80% of those claims being granted.

The U.S. military used burn pits to dispose of waste on foreign bases until the mid-2010s. Fumes from burning everything from rubber, chemical waste, and ammunitions to human feces have caused rare cancers and respiratory illnesses in veterans.

The bill is expected to cost an estimated $180 billion over the first four years. It would benefit nearly 3.5 million veterans who developed cancer and other illnesses after being exposed to fumes from the pits.

(Reporting by Andrea Shalal, Editing by Rosalba O’Brien)

us veterans urged to apply for retroactive toxic exposure benefits by aug. 9

THE upcoming web series

Scam 2003: The Telgi Story will premiere on Sony LIV on September 2. The series is based on the life of Abdul Karim Telgi, who is known for running one of the biggest stamp paper scams in India.

The series is produced by Applause Entertainment in association with StudioNEXT. It is helmed by the National award-winning director Hansal Mehta and directed by Tushar Hiranandani.

The 1-minute-26-second long teaser of the series was released on social media on August 4. The

BreaKiNg: Boney Kapoor to screen eXclusiVe footage of ajay Devgn’s maidaan at Big cine expo 2023, chennai

THE Ajay Devgn-starrer Maidaan has been one of the most awaited films for several moviegoers. The film’s release has been pushed several times and yet, the hype for the period sports drama is intact.

teaser gives glimpses of the lead character but does not reveal the face of Gagan Dev Riar who plays Telgi.

Scam 2003: The Telgi Story is the second instalment in the Scam franchise. The first instalment, Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story starring Pratik Gandhi, was a critical success.

The series is expected to be a gripping thriller that will explore the rise and fall of Abdul Karim Telgi. It is also expected to shed light on the loopholes in the Indian system that allowed Telgi to operate for so long. The series will stream on Sony LIV from September 2.

The teaser of the film was released on March 30 this year and after that, there has been no major update about the film. Now, it has come to light that Boney Kapoor, one of the producers of Maidaan, is all set to share a sneak peek of the film next week.

An exhibition called Big Cine Expo is held every year where theatre owners, design consultants, equipment manufacturers, system integrators, project management professionals, industry stakeholders etc come together. This year, the sixth edition of the Big Cine Expo will be held at Chennai

Trade Centre, Chennai on August 8 and August 9, 2023.

The inaugural ceremony will be held at 10:00 am where Alok Tandon, Co-CEO, PVR INOX, will deliver the keynote address. The guests of honour at this ceremony are producers Boney Kapoor and Mukesh Bhatt, Raghavendra T, Director,

Big Cine Expo and EditorPublisher, TheatreWorld and Yusuf Galabhaiwala, Partner, GTC Industries.

Then between 10:40 am and 11:05 am, Boney Kapoor will present neverbefore-seen footage of Maidaan for the first time.

As per sources, the veteran producer is expected to

screen not just the film's trailer but also a few scenes from the film. To avoid the footage from getting leaked, attendees will be requested to deposit their cell phones outside the screening area.

Last year, the 5th Big Cine Expo was also held in Chennai where the attendees got a chance to see exclusive footage of the Ranbir Kapoor-Alia Bhatt starrer Brahmastra (2022). The sneak peek was shown almost a month before the release of the Ayan Mukerji directorial.

Besides Ajay Devgn, Maidaan also stars Priyamani and Gajraj Rao. It is directed by Amit Ravindernath Sharma and produced by Boney Kapoor, Akash Chawla, Arunava Joy Sengupta and Zee Studios. The film’s release date is expected to be announced soon.

Nitin Desai Death case: edelweiss issues statement asserting cooperation in the rs. 250 crore defaulted loan case against ND arts

THE news of the demise of Nitin Desai came across as a shock to the entertainment industry, who are still mourning the loss of the National Award-winning art director. However, soon reports were abuzz about the massive loan that his company ND Arts was accused of borrowing from the popular finance company Edelweiss ARC. As per reports, the company has released a statement after the recent incident, wherein they have assured full cooperation in the ongoing case.

SHIMIT Amin, director of critically acclaimed films such as Ab Tak Chhappan, Chak De! India, and Rocket Singh: Salesman of the Year, is making his comeback to direction after a hiatus of 14 years. According to a report by PinkVilla, Amin is in talks with multiple producers for his next project. He is said to be considering a remake of a foreign action film, as well as original stories.

A source told the entertainment portal, “He hasn't finalised his next project yet, but he is in discussion with multiple producers for various subjects. Apart from Yash Raj Films, which also backed his last two movies, Shimit is also discussing a project with another big banner

and one foreign action film’s remake with a different company. He is also pitching his own stories, but none of them have been locked in yet. He is regularly meeting people and is hoping to start something by early next year.”

The report quoted the source saying, “Shimit is discussing movies with many producers, but you cannot be sure about him until he starts shooting. No one knows what he will end up directing next.”

For the unversed, Amin's last directorial outing was Ranbir Kapoor’s Rocket Singh: Salesman of the Year in 2009. After that, he moved to the US and worked as a creative consultant for several Hollywood films.

According to current reports, a Mumbai bench was appointed by the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) wherein an order has been issued to initiate the Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process and to proceed with the procedure as mentioned in the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code 2016. After the ND Art’s appeal against the same was dismissed on August 1, in a statement it was being said that the account has been a defaulter since January 2020.

Reports suggest that ND Arts had taken a loan worth Rs. 150 crores in November 2016 and once again in February 2018, of Rs. 35 crores from the finance major.

While the total loan amounted to be Rs. 252 crores, Edelweiss ARC has issued a statement expressing their condolences but at the same, pledging complete support in the

ongoing case regarding the loan. In their statement, they have asserted to the bench that they will be cooperating with the authorities and have assured them about maintaining transparency and adhering to all the legal process.

For the unversed, Nitin Desai died by suicide after hanging himself at his ND Studios in Karjat. The

popular art director has won three Filmfare Awards and four National Awards and has worked with some of the biggest names in the Bollywood industry like Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Ashutosh Gowariker, among others. He is known for his work in Hindi films like Jodhaa Akbar, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, Lagaan, Devdas, among others.

hansal mehta’s scam 2003: the telgi story to stream on sonyliV from september 2; first teaser out!

chak De! india director shimit amin to return after 14 years: report

aventia institute and grow money host successful miss and mrs Punjaban australia Queensland 2023 Pageant

Women's Empowerment and Cultural Pride Take Center Stage at Unidus Community Centre

QUEENSLAND, Australia - On July 1st, the highly anticipated Miss and Mrs Punjaban Australia Queensland 2023 pageant, hosted by Aventia Institute and Grow Money, took place at the prestigious Unidus Community Centre in the presence of 600+ Audience. This annual event in Queensland showcases the talents and beauty of Punjabi women from Queensland as they compete for the coveted titles in the Miss and Mrs categories. The winners from Queensland will advance to the Miss and Mrs Punjaban Australia finals in Melbourne.

The State winners for this year's event were Mrs Nishu Mann in the Mrs category and Miss Jasleen Kaur Dosanjh in the Miss category. These remarkable women, along with the runners-up, Mrs Sukhvir Kaur Sidhu and Miss Damanjot Kaur, displayed exceptional grace, beauty, and confidence, making the competition fierce among the participants. With their sights set on the title, they have worked tirelessly to prepare for the Main Event. The Last year's participant Miss Ramneek Kaur, the Queensland winner, went for the finals and came home as National Winner in Miss Category along with Mrs Mandeep Kaur, winner of Queensland, being the runner up Nationally in the Mrs. category. After their impressive achievements in the previous edition, they

both acted as mentors for this year's contestants.

The Miss and Mrs Punjaban Queensland pageant has become a platform fostering participants' self-awareness and confidence.

The event garnered immense support from the community. It featured a star-studded panel of judges, including actress and singer Nisha Bano and actress Love Gill, who flew in from India to lend their expertise. Nisha Bano also treated the audience to a captivating live performance, enthralling everyone in attendance.

Aventia Institute, Flyworld Migration & Legal Services, and Grow Money proudly presented Miss and Mrs Punjaban Australia Queensland 2023, with the event being powered by Mahindra Automotive Australia, Saadgi Designer, and co-powered by Nabha Auto Repairs. The event was also associated with Radio Sanjhi Awaaz Melbourne - Australia, promising an

unforgettable night for all attendees.

The organisers extended their heartfelt gratitude to the sponsors who made the event possible, including Flyworld Migration and Legal Services, Mahindra Automotive Australia, Saadgi Designer, Nabha Auto Repairs, Dream Way Migration and Education, Trends with Friends, Migration Evolution, Curry n Cask - Indian Bistro - Fortitude Valley, and Red Rocket Realty.

The event supporters, Folk Blasters Brisbane, Punjab Heritage Group Gold Coast, Sandli Paidan, Brisbane Giddha Group, Hunner -e -Regents park, Malwa Folk Dance Academy "MFDA", Rich Virsa Bhangra and Dance Academy Brisbane, Surtaal

Bhangra Academy Brisbane, Simply Human - Superheroes without Capes, Mandy Gill Artistry & Jewellery, Maahi Art Photography, Fabulous fashion point, Indoz TV, Ricky’s Aesthetics, Brisbane Indian Times, Peekaboo 23 Hair design by Mandy, J&K Designz, Randhawa Media, Misl E Punjab, Chaat pe Chat, were also acknowledged for their instrumental role in bringing the pageant to life.

Special thanks to our Media Partners, Brisbane Indian Times/Australian Indian Radio and Mrs Usha Chandra and Mr Umesh Chandra OAM, for conducting an Interview with Amarpreet Kaur to spread the vision of this event.

Amarpreet Kaur Virk, the heart and soul behind

the event, demonstrated her unwavering passion for women's upliftment in society, aiming to boost their morale, confidence, and motivation. Her vision is to empower women, encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones and reach for the positions they deserve. With the success of this year's event, Amarpreet plans to elevate the pageant to greater heights next year, aiming to create a more significant impact on both the participants and the audience.

In this year's event, children under the age of 18 showcased their talents and took home awards in different age categories. The winner of Teen Mr Punjab is Agam Randhawa (New Category this year), the Runner up for Teen Mr Punjab is Abhijot Singh, The winner of Teen Miss Punjaban is Jasdeep Kaur, the Runner of Teen Miss Punjaban is Rabnoor Kaur Kalra, The Winner for Junior Miss Punjaban is Hargun Kaur, the Runner Up

for Junior Miss Punjaban is Aishleen Kaur, The Winner of Little Miss punjaban is Hargun Kaur. The Runner Up for Little Miss Punjaban is Myra Jhatta. The audience was enthralled by the performances of these young participants, generating anticipation for next year's kids' participation.

Preparations for the Miss and Mrs Punjaban Queensland 2023 pageant began as soon as the dates were announced. Through dedicated practice sessions and classes, participants were given opportunities to learn various techniques, including ramp walking, giddha (traditional Punjabi folk dance), and makeup application.

The core event team members, Kritika Bansal, Harpargat Singh, and Taranjit Kaur, deserve special recognition for their tireless efforts in ensuring a seamless event from start to finish.

Registration for next year's Miss and Mrs Punjaban Australia pageant will open on January 1st, 2024. For more information, please visit the official website at https://missandmrspunjaba naustralia.com.au/.

As the Miss and Mrs Punjaban Queensland 2023 pageant drew to a close, it left behind a trail of inspiration, empowerment, and cultural pride, continuing to celebrate the strength and beauty of Punjabi women in Australia.

the continuing health challenge: chronic hepatitis B among migrants

THE latest Viral Hepatitis

Mapping Project: Hepatitis

B – National Report 2021, produced through the collaboration of the WHO (World Health Organisation) Collaborating Centre for Viral Hepatitis, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, and ASHM (Australasian Society for HIV, Viral Hepatitis and Sexual Health Medicine) detailed the progress Australia and Queensland is making towards the target of elimination of hepatitis B. The last Australia’s National Hepatitis B Strategy for 20182022 aimed for 80% of people diagnosed and 50% of people engaged in care by 2022. Unfortunately, we are not on track.

Target: 80% of people with chronic hepatitis B have been diagnosed

What can we all do to meet this target?

Get tested for hepatitis B (and your family) – a simple, specific blood test by your GP will let you know if you have hepatitis B. The report states in 2021 there were an

estimated 200,385 people in Australia living with chronic hepatitis B, and only 72.5% of people were diagnosed.

Target: 50% of all people living with hepatitis B are engaged in care – this means having treatment or monitoring with viral load testing

What can we do to meet

this target?

In Queensland, in 2021, it was estimated 31,665 people were living with hepatitis B, but only 6,500 (21%) were engaged in care, which is lower than the National average of 26%. If you have ever been told that you are a ‘carrier of hepatitis B’, or know you have hepatitis B

be able to arrange treatment, or a specialist referral to help reduce the risks of developing liver cirrhosis and liver cancer.

In Australia, the highest growing rate of cancer is liver cancer – and one of the main causes is hepatitis B. If detected early enough there are very good treatments to manage the cancer and help you live a long and productive life – but it needs to be found early.

Please ask your doctor for a blood test to check whether you or your family members have hepatitis B or have ever been exposed to it or vaccinated in the past. Get

vaccinated if needed – it will protect you from ever having the virus.

Don’t wait – get tested, get vaccinated, get engaged in care and have treatment if required

For more information, please see our webpage www.eccq.com/bbv or contact us at ECCQ. Either call 07-3844 9166 or email us at health@eccq.com.au

If you live in Cairns, you can also contact:

Faith Bassett

Phone: 07 42264769 or mobile 0405123691

Email: faith.bassett@ health.qld.gov.au

you should see your doctor for regular monitoring. This may save your life!

Chronic Hepatitis B can cause liver damage –including cirrhosis, liver cancer and even death. Regular six-monthly monitoring will help identify any changes to your liver health and your doctor will

Baking soda For smoother hair

Nimisha Modi Hetvi Hair & Beauty 0412350013

HEy GIRLS, this time we are discussing remedies for Baking Soda. Yes I know we all have a box of baking soda always handy in the pantry, these solutions are for smoother hair, brighter skin, smoother foot and hands, and whiter teeth

DRy SHAMPOO

Dry shampoo is an amazingly useful product to have on hand. Apply it on those mornings you hit snooze one too many times, after a gym session, or to simply give your hair some added lift.

Baking soda makes for a fantastic all-natural dry shampoo which really keeps the oiliness in check. Use it on its own, or mixed with a few drops of essential oil –like lavender, lemon or rose – for a pleasant scent.

Those with light coloured hair can just work the powder evenly through the hair, before brushing. Brunettes may need to add a little cocoa powder to the mix first to avoid a grey tinge.

REPAIR “SWIMMERS’

HAIR”

If you’re a blonde who swims regularly, you probably suffer from some dullness, discolouration or even a green tinge to your hair!

One of the easiest methods

of removing this build-up is by mixing a paste of baking soda and water. Coat the green areas with this paste and leave it to work for ten minutes before rinsing with clean water. Make sure to shampoo the sodium bicarbonate out and follow up with a good conditioner as this can be quite drying. Depending on how to green your hair is, you may have to repeat the process a few times.

In future, soak your hair thoroughly in clean water before entering the pool. This stops the hair from taking up chlorine and other metals from the water which lead to discolouration

BODy EXFOLIATOR

Your skin will look dull and ashy if you allow dry, dead cells to build upon the surface. Speed cell turnover and get an enviable all-over glow by exfoliating once a week. No need to buy an expensive scrub; make your own with baking soda by using the same formula as your face: one part water to three parts baking soda.

DETOX BATH SOAK

Pair baking soda with Epsom salts for the perfect pre-bedtime soak. Not only will this duo help you eliminate toxins, but they will reduce bloating, promote restful sleep and encourage healthy skin.

While running your bath, pour in a half cup of baking soda and a handful of Epsom salts. For added benefit, shake in a few drops of essential oil.

Relax in this soothing blend for 20 to 30 minutes, remembering to hydrate afterwards with a glass of water.

ARTIFICIAL TAN REMOVER

Have you ever applied selftanner expecting a summery bronzed glow and instead ended up with orange skin or unsightly streaks? Next time you have a self-tanner mishap, you don't have to wait for it to fade away. Use the body exfoliator formula— one part water to three parts baking soda—to gently scrub it away.

DEODORANT

If you have sensitive skin, you may be able to use a dusting of baking soda in place of store-bought

deodorant. Baking soda neutralizes acids and bases, so it removes odours. It also won't stain your clothes the way many antiperspirants can.

RAZOR BURN SOOTHER

A razor burned bikini line can be painful, not to mention unsightly. Soothe your sensitive skin with a solution of 1 cup of water with 1 tablespoon of baking soda. Allow the solution to dry on your skin (it will take about 5 minutes), and then rinse with cool water. Men can also use this same formula for a pre-shave or after-shave treatment on their face as long as they avoid the eye area.

ITCHy SKIN RELIEVER

You don't have to settle

for skin that's dry, itchy, and uncomfortable in the cold winter months. Taking a warm bath (not hot—that'll make your dry skin problem worse!) with a half-cup of baking soda will soften and soothe your whole body. You

can also take a cool baking soda bath in the summer to relieve sunburn or bug bites.

FACIAL SCRUB

Love that deep-clean feeling you get from a facial scrub with microbeads? These products may do wonders for your skin. But for a safe alternative: Make your own exfoliating facial scrub using baking soda. Make a paste of three parts baking soda to one part water. Rub onto your face with gentle, circular strokes, then rinse with warm water.

CAUTIONS OF BAKING SODA ON SKIN

While baking soda has a multitude of uses for hair, skin and more, it can be very drying and may even cause irritation to those with sensitive skin. To ensure baking soda is right for you, test out any treatment using sodium bicarbonate on a small patch of skin before applying liberally. Discontinue use if you experience any unwanted side effects.

No matter your skin type, you should avoid using baking soda too regularly as it may alter the pH balance of the skin – apply no more than twice per week, or less if you have dry skin.

See you all next month where we will discuss even more uses of baking soda. In the meantime, if your face or your hair is giving you too many problems, you can always book a facial or a hair mask with me on 0412350013

Hepatitis, HIV/AIDS and Sexual Health Program Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland (ECCQ)

make a difference … have your voice heard on women’s health

Women from the Indian community are not well-represented in health research. So, how do we ensure they don’t get left out When the government makes essential decisions affecting women's health?

HISTORICALLy, women have not been adequately represented in health research. As Indian women, we have even less visibility. Australia’s health policies and disease management guidelines are primarily based on data from people with a European heritage. Still, this one-size-fits-all approach to developing health policy is no longer appropriate. Times are changing, and we now know that people from different ethnic backgrounds have different risk levels for some diseases. For example, women of Indian heritage have higher risks of diabetes and heart disease. We are also likely to experience different types of menopausal symptoms in women from European backgrounds.

Professor Gita Mishra is the director of the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Health at The University of Queensland. She believes improving the representation of Indian Australian women is crucial

so the government can tailor health services to our community’s needs.

“Good policy is based on research,” said Professor Mishra.

Research provides the information needed to make the best decision, which is why it must include the voices of all people. The Australian Government funds research programs to gather information on the population's healthcare needs. The Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Health is one such program. Over 57,000

women have completed surveys on their health and well-being since the Study began in 1996, making it the most significant, longestrunning research project in Australia.

“The information our participants share through the health surveys has been used to develop federal and state government policies across a wide range of issues impacting women’s health and the services they use,” said Professor Mishra.

The study is longitudinal, meaning that it regularly surveys these same women

every few years. Over time, this builds a detailed picture of how women’s health and their health service needs change from puberty and young adulthood through to their child-bearing years, menopause, and into older age.

The women participating in this research represented the Australian population when the study started, but 25 years of immigration have changed Australia’s cultural makeup. India is now the top country of birth among permanent migrants to Australia. Roughly 3 out of every 100 people in Australia have Indian heritage. However, less than 1 in 1000 participants in the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Health have Indian origins.

To ensure that the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Health remains representative of all Australians, the study recruits new participants from the Indian community.

Reema Naresh leads the engagement and

recruitment campaign for the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Health.

“This is an incredible opportunity for our community’s voices to be properly represented,” said Ms Naresh.

She feels the survey’s holistic approach to health will resonate with Indian Australian women.

“As a culture, we understand that well-being is more than medicines and physical symptoms.

So, it’s exciting to be part of this huge project that recognises all the social, psychological, economic, and environmental factors that influence women’s wellbeing.”

She is excited about the potential for the research project to improve healthcare for the mothers, daughters, aunties, and grandmothers of not only the Indian community but all women in the community.

“It is an opportunity to be part of something much bigger than yourself,” says Ms Naresh.

Visit us at our stall at the India Day Fair on August 19th at Roma Street Parklands to learn more about the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Health.

Members of the team look forward to meeting you.

The Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Health recruitment drive is open to women aged 28-24 (born 1989-1995) and 45-50 (born 1973-1978).

To participate in Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Health, visit www.alswh.org.au/joinwomen's-health-Australia/ or https://bit.ly/44Ytvam

For more details, contact Reema Naresh via alswh@ uq.edu.au.

Free aged care navigation service for indian seniors in Brisbane's north

Do you need transport to go to your appointments? Or help with cleaning your home? Someone to accompany you while your family is away.

IF you are 65 years and above, from a multicultural background, and living in Brisbane North, you may be eligible for the care finder program. Care Finder is a free service catered to older adults who need support to understand and access government-funded aged care services and other community supports. Our care finder team will help you in your preferred language, and we can meet you in your home or an environment you are comfortable in.

THE ELIGIBILITy CRITERIA FOR THIS SERVICE ARE AS FOLLOWS:

• From a multicultural background, including Indian

• Aged 65 years old and above;

• Living in the Brisbane North PHN region, including surrounding suburbs in Brisbane City, Chermside, Redcliffe, North Lakes, Caboolture, and Kilcoy;

• Does not have a carer or family member who is confident and capable with the aged care system.

ELIGIBLE SENIORS MAy

ALSO:

• Have difficulty

communicating in English; and

• Have difficulty understanding information and making decisions; and

• Be reluctant to engage with aged care or government; and

• Be in an unsafe situation if they do not receive services.

You must be eligible for My Aged Care to access the care finder service. To discuss your eligibility or if you would like to refer someone, please call our

cA re f inder is A free service c Atered to older A dults who need support to understA nd A nd Access government-funded Aged c A re services A nd other community supports. o ur c A re finder te A m will help you in your preferred l A nguAge, A nd we c A n meet you in your home or A n environment you A re comfortA ble in.

care finder on 0490 814 480 or email carefinder@ worldwellnessgroup.org.

au . We have staff who speak different languages, including Hindi and Marathi.

The care finder program is delivered by the World Wellness Group and is funded by the Brisbane North PHN through the Australian Government’s PHN program.

A FREE MONTHLy SOCIAL GROUP FOR MULTICULTURAL SENIORS

World Wellness Group also runs a free monthly social group for multicultural seniors at Chermside. If you, or anyone you know, would like to make new social

connections while learning about healthy ageing and staying safe and independent in your home, call us now! You must register before coming along so our friendly staff can help you with your transport options and dietary requirements.

Seniors who do not speak English are encouraged to join. We provide language and cultural support. To register, please call Yen on 0493 168 955 or email YenPing.Chng@ worldwellnessgroup.org.au

Our care finder team at an information stall in Aspley Hypermarket

Monthly Predictions

AUGUst - 2023

Aries ( 21st mA rch to 20th April )

Mars can bring anger and unchecked desire this month, which can provide difficulties and lead to health problems. There is a probability of ego conflicts and disagreements due to family obligations because of certain astrological conjunctions. Be gracious when speaking to your spouse or your love interest. Due to aggressive responses this month, there may be some difficulties in the marriage. Try to treat your partner with respect and a humble attitude. You might receive a last-minute plan to visit your in-laws. In-laws may provide financial benefits. Engaging in religious activity at home can provide an opportunity to meet someone. You will have the opportunity to start a new job, and there will be workplace recognition. Your path to success will be paved by the acquisition of new professional skills. The movements of Mars and the Moon advise against engaging in office politics and criticising others' errors. Rahu and Ketu may cause some perplexity that necessitates the counsel of experts and elders. However, the Sun's movement indicates that you will succeed in competitive exams this month thanks to your thoughtful approach and patience. Additionally, a planetary movement may bring about success in endeavours relating to obtaining admission to a higher education programme in a foreign nation. August may be beneficial for achieving the anticipated success in the interview. This month, Mars will also assist you in overcoming any financial obstacles if you are anticipating a loan or in need of assistance. With regard to advancement and financial gain for those pursuing careers in digital media, this month will be favourable. You can get rid of old debt and loans with the aid of Mars.

cA ncer ( 22nd j une to 22nd j uly )

Overall, this month is going to be good and all of your plans will be successfully carried out. Jupiter's blessings may bring about some favourable developments, and your diligent work will produce the desired outcome. Rahu suggests that there may be some change at the place of employment. Be organised and prepared for a heavy task so that you can manage it and yet find time for your family and friends. Sun and Venus movement advise you to restrain your ego and avoid becoming angry in order to maintain harmony at home and at work. You are encouraged not to become dependent on luck for this month because it is not a very supportive month to receive the favour from your luck. Jupiter and Saturn each have some work to do. Rahu may bring about unexpected changes in your work environment or business endeavours. Saturn and Mars suggest that your senior may provide less assistance. To achieve the anticipated outcome for this month, Sun and Venus advise you to avoid ego conflicts. Sun and Venus' relationship advice is to give each other some breathing room so that your romantic and marriage relationships can flow smoothly. The Moon and Sun's movements suggest that there may be some in-law gatherings. With Jupiter's blessing, some of you may receive wonderful news regarding childbirth or pregnancy. Jupiter can be helpful to you in a romantic connection, however Sun, Venus, and Mercury advise you to avoid unnecessary conflict and ego disputes. Savings will still be present even with a little celebration and certain family-related expenses. It's not a great month to invest in real estate-related things. For this month, the company will achieve the projected results. Students might expect to do well on their exams and to get into college.

l ibr A ( 23rd s eptember to 22nd o ctober )

Your love life is going to flourish this month. It's possible to fall deeply in love and feel strong connection to someone. However, the tricky Mercury transit warns against getting into pointless conflicts with your soul partner. The transiting Venus will have a calming effect on your love life as the month goes on. Jupiter will also broaden both your vision and way of thinking. Additionally, it can present a chance for romance or a new connection. This month, your financial condition will get better. Mercury's influence suggests that you will be able to handle a challenging financial position extremely effectively. But be careful with your money. The effects of Nodes could pose some issues as the month goes on. As the month begins, there can be some difficult resistance and disturbances at your place of employment. You will be required to maintain your attention on your current task and put up hard effort to get results by the transiting Saturn. As the month goes on, business owners typically have excellent prospects for growth and profit. Jupiter and Venus will bestow gifts gradually, and you will make significant progress. There is a chance for new ventures as well. Mercury's influence at the beginning of this month suggests that you might have a difficult time with your academic endeavours. Jupiter's influence predicts great potential for your intellectual growth as the month goes on. Even though there will be fierce rivalry, passing entrance exams will be simpler. This month will start off with you feeling uneasy. You might have to deal with some previous health issues towards the middle of this month, even though they might gradually become better. Jupiter will favour you in the latter portion; as a result, your health will remain good, with the exception of a few little niggles that are controllable.

cA pricorn ( 22nd d ecember to 20th jA nuA ry )

The cosmic forces will continue to be in your favour for your love life and relationships at the beginning of this month. This stage will be beneficial for married couples. Mercury's influence, though, suggests that the period may be a little challenging until the middle of this month, so you might need to take your time. But things only grow better as the month goes on. Jupiter and Venus working together will provide you with some fantastic opportunity to improve your income this month. This month's middle could bring you some challenging circumstances that require you to exercise restraint and organise your finances effectively. Throughout the second half of this month, things should gradually go according to plan. Your career possibilities will improve at the beginning of this month thanks to Venus. Avoid becoming sidetracked by options that sound worthwhile. You will benefit from having some prospects for advancement as the month goes on. But as Mars suggests, making hasty decisions could get you into problems. Around this month's halfway point, businesspeople will also come upon some profitable bargains. For businesspeople, the month's end will be one of the most crucial times. They might have been hoping for some significant bargains that Mercury may bring. Jupiter and Venus' influence suggests that you may be in a good position to take any competitive tests, and your prospects of succeeding are good. As the month goes on, circumstances can start to work in your favour. The final week of the month will be in your favour. It might turn out to be advantageous for you. You may have a good month to increase your level of fitness. Saturn suggests that you can regain your vitality with a little extra attention, self-control, and regular exercise.

tAurus ( 21st April to 21st mAy )

This month will be favourable for you because to the influence of Mercury and Jupiter. Making the right choice and taking a positive attitude will help you achieve your goals on both a personal and professional level. Success in romantic relationships will be experienced during the months of August. Rahu advises you to avoid being overly demanding in your marriage and to allow for some privacy so that your spouse will feel at ease around you. Venus will bestow on you the predicted success and position at work in terms of your career. In order for things to flow smoothly at work, Sun and Venus movement advise you to eliminate ego and be realistic. An quarrel with a senior female authority figure can result in unexpected issues at work. In order to control the outcome in business, you need to have good communication and a positive attitude. Jupiter's blessings can help you succeed in academic and competitive exams. Some of you will receive excellent mentoring from mentors and your mothers' support, which will enable you to succeed in the exam. With Mercury's assistance, those of you who are interested in writing and media-related courses will succeed as anticipated. The athletic student will succeed on Mars, and your mentor will provide you with instruction. This month's finances are going well, and you'll have the anticipated savings in your pocket. Small outlays for travel and study are possible. You will succeed this month through a small gathering and celebration.

l eo ( 23rd j uly to 22nd August )

Movement of the Sun and Venus can result in eye and bodily pain-related health problems. Avoid being aggressive or getting into pointless arguments because doing so could harm your health. Be humble and work to make things right between you and your partner. This month can provide some relief if you were involved in a legal dispute regarding your marriage, but there is a potential that the marriage will end. You are recommended to maintain a healthy balance between your personal and professional lives so that you can manage your workload by spending quality time with your family. For some of you, receiving work responsibilities may have an adverse effect on your relationships. The cost of taking new courses may be incurred by the student. With the advice of a professional, you will learn about several investment and saving options. Some of you might succeed in getting a promotion and an increase in pay at work. This month, Venus and Mars will indicate anticipated financial success in your business. Jupiter is prepared to provide wealth from a career or business. The workplace is open to new hires. You may get a new job with more responsibility. The stars indicate a job transfer or change. The workplace won't get much support from coworkers. You can achieve success by pursuing a career in medicine or conducting research in this medical field. In the competitive exam, the student will succeed. This month, success can be had in a job or academic pursuit in the humanitarian or religious sectors.

s corpio ( 23rd o ctober to 22nd n ovember )

Jupiter's blessings could make your life happier and more romantic. Your social life will be active, and you and your loved one are likely to experience some amazing times together. Around the middle of this month, disturbances could be caused by transiting Mars. Although there may be some ups and downs, keep in mind that these challenges will only help your relationship grow. You will have solid planetary backing, so you may look forward to wonderful financial fortune. Family-related expenses will increase as the month goes on. The North Node's influence suggests that in trying to go forward swiftly, you can be persuaded to make hasty decisions that could get you into difficulty. This month's first few stars point to a prosperous time for professionals. If you're unemployed, you'll probably find good employment opportunities. Jupiter's influence is expected to have a very positive effect on job chances. If you are in business, you can take advantage of this time to grow. Your academic progress could be aided by the planets. However, Mercury's influence could leave you feeling a little dull and lazy. As a result, you can have trouble passing the tests. Fortunately, pupils may find a lot of encouragement from the impact of stars near the end of the month. As the month goes on, there can be some seasonal effects on your health. In the later part of this month, the influence of the stars may not be favourable for your health. You can experience an upset metabolism, a lack of appetite, and weakness as a result.

AquA rius ( 21st jA nuA ry to 18th f ebruA ry )

If someone special hasn't already noticed you, this month is when you can expect them to do so thanks to Venus and Mercury's graces. Make a daring move because the game will undoubtedly be in your favour. The end of the month will be a great time for singles. This month, your financial planning might continue to be flawless. Venus might also be in your favour when it comes to matters involving money, fixed assets, and real estate. During the second part of this month, Jupiter predicts that you could receive money rewards from your maternal side of the family and from international sources. This might be a cautious and patient month for businesspeople. This month may bring with it some challenging circumstances. Saturn will increase your awareness of your boundaries and weak points. Jupiter will inspire you to work hard. This is not the time to take unnecessary risks or make major adjustments. You would be able to focus on your research at the start of this month, and outcomes may continue to be generally favourable. While the month is typically favourable, pupils may be misled by the impact of Nodes; as a result, it is advised that their parents provide them with appropriate guidance. You might experience success in this month's health and fitness-related endeavours. You may feel energised as a result of Mars' impact and strive incredibly hard to increase your level of fitness. By the conclusion of this month, whatever health difficulties you may have might be resolved.

g emini ( 22nd mAy to 21st j une )

Jupiter, Mercury, and the Sun will all bestow their gifts onto you this month. Mercury will help you make the right choice at the appropriate time, which will lead to success on both the personal and professional fronts. This month, Jupiter will make it easier to land a job or an interview. The work environment may improve, and assistance from a coworker will be available. Saturn's position will not change, so more work and effort will be required on both the professional and personal fronts. The courage to make some significant career-related decisions will be given to you by the sun.Venus and Sun can cause ego conflicts and pointless arguments in relationships, thus it's best to have a grounded attitude. This month will produce a mixed bag of financial results. Although there will be a reliable stream of revenue, the list may also include expected expenses. In the second half of this month, savings are anticipated. Saturn will continue to be in the same position, so your diligence and discipline will assist you to carry out your strategy. Traveling unexpectedly or travelling on businessrelated trips will result in some profitable client and financial gains. Laziness and distraction from studying may result from Saturn and Moon motion. Concentration issues may exist. Joining a yoga class or other extracurricular activity might be an excellent way to recharge. Stay away from revisiting prior errors and events that may have impacted your performance. Jupiter urged people to improve their diet and make time for morning and evening walks. As suggested by the movement of Jupiter, maintaining a connection with nature can help you maintain excellent health.

v irgo ( 23rd August to 22nd s eptember )

You run the risk of experiencing hand or muscle pain, so try to avoid strenuous exercise and use caution when using electronic devices. Driving a vehicle requires caution and adherence to traffic laws. Mars can be aggressive, and this could have an impact on your health this month. Success in recovering from poor health will be provided by Jupiter and Venus. Due to financial constraints or obligations to one's family, a relationship may experience stress. Those of you who have legal issues with marriage will have an abrupt breakup. When you're considering a big choice, try to be patient. Traveling to a foreign country or a place of worship might be expensive. It's important to take care of your health because, according to the planets this month, some of you might incur medical expenses. Those of you in the wholesale industry will succeed well. However, exercise caution while investing a sizable sum in that. Those of you who work independently may encounter difficult client situations. A significant corporate transaction will be completed this month. You will also receive positive news from taking distance learning courses and online courses. If you are in a creative or writing programme, this is an excellent moment for you to improve your academic performance. This month, focus on enhancing the standard of your nutrition. Be very careful with hygiene-related issues this month as they can lead to health problems. Throughout this month, you should exercise caution with regards to cleaning, hygiene, and skin allergies.

sAgittA rius ( 23rd n ovember to 21st d ecember )

Beginning of the month, your dominance over your spouse or partner may cause some conflict, but over time, your relationship will become peaceful. Your love life is slowly but definitely improving toward the end of this month. You'll be able to experience significant financial growth. Although you may have a steady stream of income, it portends that you will make poor investing decisions and end up losing money. However, your friends and family will support you and give you advice, allowing you to get back on track. To get superior work results, Saturn can want you to closely coordinate your efforts with those of your team. Your life will become increasingly stressful as your workload rises. As the month goes on, businesspeople may increase their market share by taking some wise actions. If you are self-employed, the time around the middle of this month could prove to be a great period. If you are in business, keep pushing forward because ultimately Jupiter will help you make a significant breakthrough. Your academics will receive your complete attention, which will yield substantial rewards. If you're pursuing higher education, you'll do well and succeed. Jupiter will improve your luck, and you'll have more opportunities to enrol in higher education programmes abroad. The stars for this month predict that you will start off in top physical condition, but as the month goes on, some anxiousness could cause issues. Around the middle of this month, Jupiter will bring about some significant, beneficial changes in your way of life that will keep you energised and enthusiastic.

p isces ( 19th f ebruA ry to 20th mA rch )

Some challenging difficulties in your family may worry you as the month begins. Mars suggests that you two might have some contentious disagreements. Venus's influence appears to be beneficial for singles as the month goes on as there is a chance for a new connection. During the latter part of this month, Venus and Mars' combined influence will bring romance and love. Mercury may introduce some perplexing circumstances to you at the beginning of this month. Do not enter into any financial agreements at the start of this month. Double check anything related to money because mistakes are likely. Don't try to follow your gut. Your finances and fortune may continue to be in good shape during the second half of this month. Due to the negative effects of the South Node at the beginning of this month, you may face some difficulties and hurdles that could impede your job advancement. The situation can prove to be a little challenging for businesspeople. Mars will increase your confidence as the month goes on, and you might be attempting to make up for the error you made earlier. Thankfully, at the end of the month, optimism will rule at your place of business. The majority of this month will continue to be helpful for your studies. Mercury may ask you to assess your potential and make decisions in line with that analysis. If you're confused, ask mentors and teachers for advice. You might feel a little unsatisfied with the state of your health at the start of this month. Try to push such emotions away and keep working to raise your fitness level.

india National cricket team Players Name For World cup 2023

THE Indian National Cricket team is a full member of the International Cricket Council (ICC) with Test, OneDay International (ODI) and Twenty-20 International (T20I) status. The Indian Cricket team has rivalries with other Test-playing nations, most notably with Pakistan and also with Australia, South Africa and England.

INDIA NATIONAL CRICKET TEAM

The governing body of cricket in the country namely Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The first recorded match in India was in 1721. The Indian Cricket team played its first official test match on 25th June 1932 at the famous Lord’s cricket ground in England. Indian cricket played the test match with just six layers which make it

traditionally strong at home but not really making an impact on away tours.

INDIAN CRICKET TEAM GET STRONGER IN THE 1970S WITH THE EMERGENCE OF BATSMAN:

• Sunil Gavaskar

• Gundappa Viswanath

• All-rounder Kapil Dev

• Quality spin bowlers India developed a more aggressive batting lineup with stroke makers such as Azharuddin, Dilip Vengsarkar and Ravi Shastri. In 1983, India went to defeat the favorites and two-time defending champions West Indies in the third ICC Cricket World Cup. This created a point in Indian Sporting history.

The end of the 80s and 90s witnessed the debuts of Sachin Tendulkar, Saurav Ganguly, Rahul Dravid, Anil

Kumble and Javagal Srinath, considered to be among the greatest Indian players and brought much glory for the country with their stellar contributions.

INDIAN NATIONAL CRICKET TEAM- 21ST CENTURy

In the 2000s, Indian Cricket team took centrestage in the form of M.S. Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh, Zaheer

Khan, Harbhajan Singh etc.

The infrastructure of the Indian national cricket team has improved by leaps and bounds in the last decade or so. Giving chance to youngsters increased the strength of the Indian Cricket team and made it achieve many titles.

Captains: Rohit Sharma (Current Capt.), Virat Kohli (Previous captain) and MS Dhoni (Ex-Captain).

Coaches: Rahul Dravid (head coach), Vikram Rathour (Batting Coach), Paras Mhambrey (bowling coach), T Dilip (fielding coach).

INDIAN NATIONAL CRICKET TEAM PLAyERS

NAME FOR WORLD CUP

On 23rd June 2023, the selection committee declared only test matches and ODI matches squad. For the Test and ODI series, Rohit Sharma will lead the team. On 5th July 2023, the BCCI declared the Indian Team Squad for T20s, where Hardik Pandya will lead the team.

HERE IS THE INDIA NATIONAL TEAM PLAyERS

2023 LIST:

India National Cricket Team ODI players name 2023

Rohit Sharma, Shubman

Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Virat Kohli, Surya Kumar Yadav, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Shardal Thakur, R Jadeja, Axar Patel, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Mohd. Siraj, Urman Malik, Mukesh Kumar. India National Cricket Team Players For T20 Match Ishan Kishan, Shubman Gill, Yashsvi Jaiswal, Tilak Varma, Surya Kumar Yadav, Sanju Samson, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Urman Malik, Avesh Khan, Mukesh Kumar.

INDIA NATIONAL CRICKET

TEAM SCHEDULE 2023

After the World Test Championship Final match, in July 2023, India is on the West Indies tour for the Test, One Day, and T20.

NICK Kyrgios is a temperamental tennis player. He does not shy away from speaking his mind, a trait that has often landed him in controversies.

Kyrgios, however, has not changed his ways and continues to be the way he is. This time around, the Australian has courted a fresh new controversy on social media.

The former world number 13 has been sidelined due to injuries this year. Kyrgios has played only one game in 2023. He played at the Stuttgart Open, where he lost to Wu Yibing in the first round.

Kyrgios is not in the news for his injuries though. The fiery Aussie recently mocked an account online, that only highlighted the top 10 ATP players and their social media following.

Kyrgios reacted to the post and commented ‘LOL’ under it. A fan called him out for it, but Nick responded that he has done more for tennis than a lot of players on the list.

Other fans, of course, took issue with his statement because the only reason he does not feature on the list is because he is not in the top 10 rankings. A user even harshly pointed out that people do not follow him for tennis.

Kyrgios does have over 5 million followers on social media, more than players like Stefanos Tsitsipas and Daniil Medvedev. Other fans did not hold back either.

Nick Kyrgios is currently recuperating from his injuries. He had to pull out

of Wimbledon at the last possible minute due to a wrist injury. There are no updates as of now, about when Kyrgios will make a return.

Nick Kyrgios is currently recuperating from his injuries. He had to pull out of Wimbledon at the last possible minute due to a wrist injury. There are no updates as of now, about when Kyrgios will make a return.

Besides Nick Kyrgios, who are the other popular tennis stars on social media?

Social media has become an integral part of our daily lives. Celebrities have the power to influence their fans online. While Nick Kyrgios does have a huge fanbase on social media, there are other players with an even bigger fan following.

Rafael Nadal is the most followed tennis player on this list. With 19.5 million+ followers on Instagram alone, Nadal tops this list by a huge margin. It is not surprising that the 22-time Grand Slam champion is so popular and loved by fans across the globe.

With 16.8 million+

followers, Serena Williams sits next on this list. The younger Williams sister is quite active on social media, sharing pictures and giving life updates to fans. The 23time Grand Slam champion has been a huge influence on women’s tennis.

Novak Djokovic comes next on this list. With a gigantic fanbase of 13.4 millon+ followers, Djokovic is a hugely popular figure. He is quite active too, sharing pictures with his family and his triumphs on the tennis court.

Then there are players who do not have such a big presence on social media but have done a lot for tennis.

Elina Svitolina, Coco Gauff are just two examples of this. Svitolina has become a household name since she returned to professional tennis and took a stand for Ukraine. Gauff has been quietly working to make the game more accessible to young players.

It is true that social media is an important tool these days. But the fanbase alone cannot prove to be the litmus test for contribution to the sport.

IN his long-awaited return to the football field, Ryan Papenhuyzen showed no signs of nerves as he played a “pretty full 40 minutes” to help Storm feeder club Sunshine Coast Falcons keep their finals hopes alive.

Played in front of a healthy Sunshine Coast Stadium crowd - the largest attendance of the season according to club officials - Papenhuyzen ran out for his first game in 384 days since suffering a horrific kneecap fracture in Round 18 last year.

"He did a great job; I thought he got really busy too, which was great and it was a pretty full 40 minutes for him," Falcons coach Brad Henderson told NRL.com.

"I knew it was a good sign when he brought his kicking tees up with him.

"I'm glad he got through; I am really, really pleased for him."

Papenhuyzen started the match at fullback and played only the first half as was the plan outlined by the Storm to ease him back into the game and was involved in plenty from the get-go, kicking off the match.

As well as spending some time in the dummy half role, Papenhuyzen got his name on the scoreboard kicking two from three conversions, and helped set up the Sunshine Coast’s first try. He also made sure to get involved in defence early, showing no hesitation when attempting to bring down the bigger-bodied Ipswich Jets forwards.

While there were some murmurs from the crowd of “don’t hurt him”; Papenhuyzen seemed right at home back on the field where he played two seasons in the Hostplus Cup in 2018 and 2019.

“He seemed really happy to be here and we're certainly happy to have him," Henderson said.

"But look, Ryan's a real leader too, we found that out during the week.

"He spoke really well at our captain's run last night and he was really good in the sheds too.

"We're just really pleased he got through today ... and I thought he played a good game."

With Storm teammates including captain Christian

Welch, forwards Harry Grant, Nelson Asofa-Solomona, Tui Kamikamica and Trent Loiero and club coaching staff Todd Lowrie watching on in support, Papenhuyzen - and Storm centre and fellow Falcon Old Boy Justin Olam, who also featured in Saturday’s game before coming off late in the second half with what appeared to be an arm injury - were swamped by fans on the field after the fulltime siren.

Henderson said he was hopeful to have Papenhuyzen back in his side next week as the Falcons faced another must-win game against defending premiers Norths Devils as they aim for a finals berth.

"I think that's the plan, but that might change - a week's a long time in footy," Henderson said.

"We found out the other night that a couple of their players were late withdrawals, so we'll wait and see.

"But normally, if it's a Saturday game, which it is next week, we'll find out Tuesday afternoon, who we're going to have – hopefully he’s on board."

“Who Follows you for tennis”- Nick Kyrgios’ Fake claims stirs controversy once again in the tennis World

'Pretty full 40 minutes' as Papenhuyzen makes return

Brisbane legends annual sports talent (Blast) awards Night 2023

THE prestigious Brisbane Legends Annual Sports Talent (BLAST) Awards Night 2023 was a grand celebration of athleticism, talent, and sportsmanship, held at a luxurious Coorparoo Secondary College on a balmy evening of 29th July. The club celebrated its 5th founding anniversary, and this event was a marquee event for the club, which has been growing organically for the last five years.

The event brought together enthusiasts from the badminton and cricket community, as well as distinguished guests, members of the club, and generous sponsors, all under one roof.

The Brisbane Legends Club’s President, Mr Sambit Das, opened the event with a short speech on the club’s journey and the vision the club has been following for the betterment of the sporting community.

The evening was also filled with excitement and anticipation as three distinguished guests, Mrs Charis Mullen, MP, Cr. Teresa Lane and Cr. Jon Raven graced the occasion with their presence. Their attendance added a touch of glamour and prestige to the event, as they shared inspiring stories of their journey and offered valuable advice to the budding athletes present.

Mr John Buchanan, a legendary Cricket Coach of Australia and a veteran in the world of sports, delivered an enthralling keynote speech. His words echoed through the audience's hearts, instilling a sense of determination and passion for sports. His anecdotes of triumphs and setbacks resonated with both young and seasoned players alike, leaving a lasting impact on everyone present.

The guests of honour felicitated club athletes from the Badminton and Cricket space for their exemplary achievements in the last year. The awards truly showcased the talent which the club has nurtured and promoted in the last five years.

The evening was about awards and speeches and featured captivating singing

performances from Zaisha and Annesha (Sargam Music Academy) that enthralled the audience. The melodious voices and soulful renditions created an enchanting atmosphere, adding a musical touch to the event.

Renowned dancers (Tapori Squad) showcased their talent, treating the audience to breathtaking performances that blended grace and energy. Their colourful and lively routines kept the spirits high and the attendees entertained throughout the event.

The evening was brought to life by the renowned performer and singing sensation Ashutosh Jain who with his melodious voice and exemplary good songs captivated the audience and made people put on their dancing shoes. The performance was well received and made the crowd want more!!

Culinary delights awaited the guests, with a delectable spread of dishes from various cuisines from Indian Brothers team. The sumptuous food catered to the diverse tastes of the attendees, ensuring everyone relished the evening with great pleasure.

The event also celebrated the budding talents of junior cricketers who had shown remarkable promise in their respective sports. These young athletes were recognised and encouraged, serving as an inspiration

to the next generation of players.

The camaraderie and sportsmanship among the players were evident as they applauded each other's achievements and celebrated the spirit of sports. The event provided an excellent opportunity for athletes from different disciplines to connect and bond over their shared passion.

The success of the event would not have been possible without the benevolent sponsors (Nk Transport and Logistics, Skills Institute Australia, Loaney, Queensland Automotive, The Mortgage Panel, AusIndia Travel, and Blue Sky Solar) who generously supported and contributed to making the awards ceremony a grand affair. Their backing elevated the event and showcased their commitment to promoting sports and nurturing young talents.

BLAST 2023 was a night to remember, filled with camaraderie, talent, and celebration. It honoured the accomplishments of exceptional athletes, inspired the next generation, and highlighted the significance of sports in bringing communities together. As the evening concluded, the memories of this spectacular event would undoubtedly linger in the hearts of all those who attended, leaving them eager for more such joyous celebrations in the future.

sKills aND traiNiNg collaBoratioN BetWeeN iNDia aND australia

THE relationship between Australian and India has never been stronger with the two countries continuing to work in partnership to achieve shared goals.

Australian Skills and Training Minister Brendan O’Connor recently travelled to New Delhi and Indore, meeting with Indian Ministers and further strengthening relations between the two countries.

Minister O’Connor met with India’s Minister of Education and Minister of Skills Development and Entrepreneurship Shri Dharmendra Pradhan in New Delhi to discuss collaboration to combat ongoing skill shortages.

The meeting followed the first dialogue between the Ministers since Minister Pradhan visited Australia in August 2022 and was an opportunity for the two Ministers to update each other on their current skills priorities.

It builds upon the visit in May to Australia by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and reinforces efforts to further deepen the education and skills relationship between

the two countries.

He then travelled to Indore to attend the G20 Labour and Employment Minister’s Meeting and met with the Indian Minister of Labour and Employment Bhupender Yadav.

Minister O’Connor said his visit reinforced the positive relationship between India and Australia and gave him greater insight into how the two countries can continue to partner in important areas.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Skills and Training Brendan O’Connor.

“India and Australia are not only friends, we are comprehensive strategic partners with many shared priorities, goals, and mutual interests.”

“Australia’s vibrant Indian diaspora, our second largest and fastest growing overseas-born group, is at the heart of our strong relationship.

“My discussions with Minister Pradhan and Minister Yadav highlighted not only the close relationship between our two countries, but the many opportunities that exist

t he meeting followed the first di A logue between the m inisters since m inister p r A dh A n visited Austr A li A in August 2022 A nd wA s A n opportunity for the two m inisters to updAte e Ach other on their current skills priorities.

for further collaboration in education, skills, and renewable energy.

“I’m committed to strengthening existing cooperation and exchange in skills and training and exploring further opportunities, including delivery in India by quality Australian providers.

“As the G20 host this year, I was pleased the topics India chose for our meeting were global skills gaps, improving social protections for those working in the gig and platform economy, and sustainable financing of social protection. These are all important issues for Australia and the rest of the world.

italian chamber of commerce and industry Queensland and Northern territory gala Dinner celebrated the movement

ICC Qld and NT held its annual Gala dinner at Gambaro Restaurant and function centre on Saturday fifth, August. The popular event is always a sold-out success. The event has a meet-and-greet business networking session in the well-appointed function room before the main event.

ICCI welcomed one of Australia's greatest accordionists, Bradley Voltz, to entertain us all this year. Bradley studied under Leo Mazzei and was 14 when he won first place in the Open Age National Free Bass Accordion Championship, the youngest competitor to win the title in the competition's history. In 1992, he worked for three years with Enzo Invincibile at Enzo's, and in 1999 accompanied Luciano Pavarotti when The King of the High Cs came to

Brisbane.

As a pianist, Bradley has worked as Musical Director for Kamahl and John Rowles, and has backed artists including Glen Shorrock, Grace Knight, Normie Rowe, Julie Anthony, Marina

Pryor, Doug Parkinson and Jade Hurley. Bradley currently holds a recording contract with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation's ABC Classic to record a new suite of Italian-inspired accordion music by an

ICCI member (and his son!) Alexander Voltz.

For the Gala Ball, Bradley was joined by John Simmers (bass) and Randal Scheerle (drums), two of Brisbane's most well-known jazz musicians, for an evening of Italian classics.

This year’s sensational ICCI QLD&NT Annual Gala Dinner was hosted at the Gambaro Restaurant and Function Centre on Saturday, 5th August 2023, from 6.30 pm for a 7.00 pm sit down.

The special guest

speaker for the evening was the Ambassador of Italy to Australia, H.E. Paolo Crudele OMRI, accompanied by his wife, Sara Fernandez Carcedo. Other dignitaries included Dr.ssa Luna Angelinu Marinucci, Italian Consul to Queensland and Northern Territory, Senator Paul Scarr, Dr Christian Rowam MP and Lachlan Millar Mp. Chamber members and friends of the chamber community leaders attended the event.

NPP legislators meet amit shah, urge him to restore Normalcy iN riot-hit maNiPur

CONTD. FROM PG 1

The delegation sought adequate relief and rehabilitation materials

to ensure the safety and livelihood of those affected by the violence.

Shah welcomed their

thoughts and views and assured the delegation that the central government was determined to provide a feasible solution to the

ongoing conflict in Manipur. With both sides displaying a sure sense of commitment to the cause, the meeting rounded up with an

understanding to work tirelessly towards finding solutions to end the unrest and restore Manipur to its past peaceful glory, which

was unanimously agreed would usher in lasting peace and development in the state in particular and the region in general.