Brisbane Indian TImes - February 2024 Edition

A Division of Qld Multicultural Times

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

Volume 20, Number 6 Saturday, February 10th, 2024

As God is One, we respect all Religions

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Fiji Freight Specialist (Sea & Air) GOPIO International and Chapter Officials with the Convention Team at the Lamp Lighting Ceremony to Kick-off the Convention 2024 Planning The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) International held a kick-off planning meeting to launch the GOPIO 2024 Global Convention of People of Indian Origin on Sunday, January 28th, at the Royal Albert Palace in New Jersey. The meeting was marked by the presence of GOPIO International, chapter officials from the New York Metro area, and representatives of community and professional organisations. The prestigious GOPIO International convention is scheduled for April 26-28, 2024, at the Royal Albert Palace in New Jersey.

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Inside

• Local News ..................................4-33 • Real Estate ................................12-15 • wwww ...................................... 24-25 • India News ..................................... 34 • Fiji News ......................................... 36 • Entertainment .............................. 38 • Health & Well Being .................... 40 • Business Directory/Classified ... 43 • Sports News ................................... 44

A Division of Qld Multicultural Times Published Monthly OWNERS / PUBLISHERS: Umesh Chandra OAM & Usha Chandra ADVERTISING: 0430 193 715 sales@indiantimes.com.au JOURNALIST/ CORRESPONDENTS • Thakur Ranjit Singh (NZ) • Thilliar Varnakulasingham (NZ) • Shalendra Prasad (Fiji) • Rama Gaind (Canberra) • Ml. Nawaaz Ashrafi • Imam Muhammad Aslam • Pastor Joseph Dass • Haji Abdul Rahman Deen • Jitendra Deo • Nimisha Modi • Ranjita Pillai (Immigration Matters) • Peter Lane Rai • Awadhesh Sharma • Shailendra Singh • Gagan deep Tandon • Ravi Vastrad • Brian Sullivan (Photography) • Amod Datar • Rajesh Chand • Ashok Attri

From the Publisher Welcome to our February edition; February is the only month with fewer than 30 days! It's usually 28 days, though February is 29 days long in leap years such as 2024. But why 28 days? The Roman King Numa had originally made all months 29 days, as Romans believed even numbers were unlucky.

February is mainly recognised for Valentine’s Day and flowers, and oddly enough, even though it’s just another month, there’s a lot of history behind this month of romance and love!

February fluctuates between 28 and 29 days per year. The 29th day only occurs every four years during leap years.

The length of February was finalised when Julius Caesar remade the Roman calendar and assigned the month 28 days and 29 days. In 713 B.C., February was officially added to the Roman calendar.

If you were born in February, your birthstone is an amethyst, and your flower is a primrose. The western zodiac signs in February are Aquarius, which is until February 19th, and Pisces, which is until February 20th.

Over time, the length of February kept changing. At one point, it had as little as 23 days.

In the Northern Hemisphere, February is the third month of winter. Meanwhile, in the Southern Hemisphere, February is the last month of summer. Between the North and South Hemispheres, February is the equivalent of August.

Of all the words you can misspell, February is one of the most misspelled words in English. Even the White House has misprinted the word “February” before

Address: PO Box 197, Taigum Qld 4018 Ph: (07) 3192 5188 Fax: (07) 3865 5864 E-mail: prod@indiantimes.com.au Subscriptions: 12 months 6 months 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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From the Editor: If you would like us to publish your letters, feedback, comments on any of our stories or suggest ideas columns or features, please send your submissions to: Brisbane Indian Times Suite 5, 2281 Sandgate Road Boondall Qld 4034 or E-mail: prod@indiantimes.com.au

2 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024

in a press release!

Well, so much for February. Let's focus on the historic moment when Ram Mandir in Ayodhya was inaugurated; the mega event was witnessed live via multiple streaming sources worldwide. Justice was finally delivered five hundred and fifty years later.

While the celebrations were shared among many diverse cultures of India, foreign media have been criticised for biased reporting. Several online petitions have been signed against some of the journalists.

Congratulations to the Indian Government on this achievement and for restoring faith in humanity; it had been a long time coming; as the saying goes, Satyameva Jayate ( 'Truth alone triumphs') 26th January is Australia Day and is widely celebrated. However, a growing movement opposes the date and calls it “Invasion Day” There have been protest marches and mass gatherings. Brisbane City Councils hold a special Citizenship ceremony on the day, and this year, five hundred and fifty new candidates took up Australian Citizenship at the ceremony.

I was honoured to have a special guest representing GOPIO International.

The 2024 Brisbane City Council election is scheduled to be held on 16 March 2024 to elect a lord mayor and 26 councillors to the City of Brisbane. The election will be part of Queensland, Australia's statewide local government elections.

The current lord mayor, former Deputy Adrian Schrinner (Liberal National), has served since 8 April 2019, having succeeded Graham Quirk, with the Liberal National Party having been in power for almost 20 years after defeating Labor's Tim Quinn in

2004. Brisbane City Council elections are significant in Australian local government politics, as the council is the largest in the country by population, area, and budget management.

Many local Indian associations observed Australia Day, including FICQ, GOPIO Gold Coast, Tamil Association of Queensland and Varnam Cultural; it is pleasing to see our Indian community joining Queensland's multicultural community in celebrating and observing Australia Day. India's 75th Republic Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm and patriotism with the iconic Parade in Delhi. French Prime Minister Emmanuel Macron was the chief guest this year. In Queensland, multiple celebrations were held to mark the main one organised by FICQ and Usually at Sunpac. GOPIO Gold Coast held its event on 27th January, while GOPIO Cairns held theirs on 26th January.

GOPIO Gold Coast held its Citizenship ceremony on 27th January. On 28th January, Shakti Global was officially launched. I was honoured to be one of the guest speakers at the official inauguration; the event was very well organised and attended by many community leaders. If the inauguration is something to go by, we can rest assured that the mainly women-led organisation promoting holistic health and upholding the Sanatan Dharma will do well; we wish them well in their future endeavours.

On the International scene, GOPIO International held a very successful convention 2024 launch in New York; fifty-plus volunteers and supporters attended the event. As the convention convenor, Prakash Shah organised the lunch meeting in collaboration with GOPIO International President Lal Motwani.

GOPIO International chairperson Thomas Abraham was also in attendance.

As the editor-in-chief of the GOPIO International newsletter, I am pleased to report that the second edition of the bulletin was very well-received, and we are receiving more submissions from various chapters and life members. When the current GOPIO International committee was sworn in, some disgruntled members did not want to give up their positions even after the expiry of their terms and had lodged a case against the GOPIO International Chairperson. The courts have dismissed the case, and we remain the legitimate officers of official GOPIO International.

Lastly, I would like to congratulate the members of the Tuesday Ramayana Group for Sampurna Ramaya Yug and Bhandara.

Many prominent Brisbane priests and past presidents attended the event. This was the fifth Ramayana Sampurna Yug by the Tuesday Ramyana group; the dedicated group holds the Ramayana path every Tuesday night and is streamed live on Australian Indian Radio, Facebook and YouTube channels.

With this, I must pen off, thank you all for your ongoing support until next month.

Happy Reading —Umesh Chandra OAM Publisher

BIT MARCH 2024

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Excellent strategy to explore Canberra’s ‘Cultural Icons’

By Rama Gaind Canberra’s $3.4 billion tourism industry is thriving, offering investment opportunities in accommodation and other tourism services. Official ACT Government figures reveal in 2023, the territory welcomed more than 5.4 million domestic and international overnight visitors. One of the contributing factors is eye-catching advertising promotions like the one that endorses Australia’s capital city with its abundance of national cultural treasures.

‘Made of Australia’ is a simple story, immediately captivating, confidently communicated and visually stunning.

‘The Cultural Icons’ campaign reinforces what we already know: Canberra is worth visiting!

Canberra is home to 13 of Australia’s most iconic cultural institutions, and for the first time in history, these organisations have collaborated to provide unique perspectives of Australia’s story.

Every once in a while, we’re taken aback and forced to reassess all that we take for granted. Everything has beauty, but not everyone sees it. We lose sight of living life and focus on survival.

Such is the case with living in Canberra. We should revel in our magnificent surrounds, a fact that was brought home to me by my grandchildren last week.

Together we rediscovered a new way of appreciating what’s in our own backyard.

We’ve seen ‘The Cultural

Icons’ campaign as pictures tell an uplifting, enthusiastic story in the attentiongrabbing promotional video to attract visitors.

Personalised annotations are a brilliant strategy!

“I found part of my story in one of the most unexpected places. I found our shared culture. I found courage.

I found my community. I found old friends and new ones. I found my purpose.

We found each other. I found a place where we see things and wonder. It’s made of our curiosity. It’s made of my sense of belonging. It’s made of me. 13 perspectives. 1 story. Yours.”

Travel and tourism go hand-in-hand as they form a part of our economy.

Canberra is sometimes affectionately called the ‘bush capital’ for its sweeping nature reserves and surrounding mountain ranges, but this campaign proves the city is not just a maxim for the entirety of politics.

Canberra icons It’s easy to find a mix of history, art and the outdoors in the capital. According to Tourism Australia, the small-yet-mighty capital of Canberra is a city that punches far above its weight.

Well-known museums and historical sites are just the beginning. Dig a little deeper to find hidden gems in and outside of the city. For art that will move you, explore

Australian Parliament House in Canberra. Photo: Rama Gaind. some of the finest galleries and museums where one loses track of time, delve through Aboriginal artworks, see international exhibitions and join guided tours. Inside the National Library of Australia, we held in esteem the rare books, maps and images that told stories of the country’s past.

A visit to the Australian Parliament House offered a chance to learn more about its culture and political history. We saw the exhibitions and art collections and went behind-the-scenes.

We explored the symbolism and craftsmanship of the building architecture, visited the parliamentary chambers … all at our own pace.

National Library of Australia, Canberra. Photo: Rama Gaind.

Among the other institutions featured in the campaign are the Australian War Memorial, the National Gallery of Australia, National Museum of Australia,

Questacon and the Royal Australian Mint.

On the shores of Canberra’s Lake Burley Griffin, Australia's stories come “alive” at the National

Museum of Australia. Visit Canberra highlights the museum's stunning design and the landscapes do provide an extraordinary place to explore the splendid and diverse stories of Australia and its people.

Wander through the many exhibitions and get to know the real, the treasured, the surprising and the inspirational objects from Australian history.

In the heart of the Parliamentary Zone, the gardens at Old Parliament House offered a pleasant, rose-filled place to pause.

Located on either side of Old Parliament House are the House of Representatives Garden and Senate Garden.

Choosing the name ‘Canberra’ — said to have been derived from a local Aboriginal word for 'meeting place' — was a logical choice. The city’s major attractions offer an exceptional perspective on the Australian story.

Take advantage and have an immersive opportunity to understand our story, celebrate it, learn from it and reflect on it for the future.

“No matter who you are or where you come from, you'll find a part of you right here.

A story that’s made of you … made of us … and made of Australia.”

Make sure you find your special story when you scrutinise and uncover the enlightening cultural icons in Canberra!

Aerial view of the National Museum of Australia in Lawson Crescent, Acton Peninsula, Acton. Photo: Visit Canberra.

TAKING REVENGE

Pastor Suresh Dass Joseph josephdass@optusnet.com.au Dear reader, it is with great joy, we bring you the word of God. In life, we all face situations when someone talks behind us, makes us look bad, or mistreats us. Then, it is easy

to slip into defensive mode or try to pay them back for what they did to you. An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth are common phrases that come to mind when thinking of revenge. But according to the scriptures, God says, "It is My job to take revenge."

That means God is the right judge and can make your wrongs right. It may not happen in your time, but it will happen in God's time. In the meantime, you must learn to control your emotions, be at peace, and let God be the avenger.

In the Bible (1 Samuel 25), we read about a wealthy businessman named Nabal.

David and his army had been protecting his animals

4 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024

and workers. One time, David asked Nabal for some of his animals. This was an easy request since Nabal had so many animals. Instead, he refused and said that he didn't know who David was, spoke harshly, and insulted him.

David became so angry that he gathered some of his men to go and take revenge by finishing off Nabal and his workers. But when Abigail, Nabal's wife, finds out, she quickly prepares food and takes it to David.

She bowed down before him and pleaded with him not to take revenge on Nabal.

David accepted her advice, forgave Nabal, and left the matter in the hands of God.

Soon after, Nabal died. Upon David's request, Abigail became his wife. Not only did he get Nabal's wife, but now he owned all the animals and property that previously belonged to Nabal!

Here are 3 lessons we can learn from David.

1. You can avenge yourself or let God be your avenger. But you cannot have it both ways.

Vengeance, or taking revenge, chains you to the wrongdoor, and you end up as a prisoner. Dwelling on something others have done to you, or what someone may have said about you, makes you—not them—miserable.

You walk around troubled,

and they don't know you're upset. Don't give anyone that kind of control over your life.

Forgive—and move on! And that's what David did.

2.

When we take revenge, we pay back that evil with more evil. It does more damage to you than the person who has done you harm. I am not saying when someone is attacked physically that, they should not report the matter. But I am talking about when someone deserts you. It makes you look small before others. It doesn't show you the respect you deserve. Be the bigger person, forgive them, and move on. Life is not about being angry, getting revenge, and being

mean to people who have been mean to you. That's a shallow way to live. Instead, lift someone that's pushed you down.

3. God's not going to promote you to pay somebody back. You can go to the next level when you're the bigger person, loving others, even though someone else doesn't deserve it. David was destined to become the next king of Israel. It was in his power to take revenge.

But David knew that revenge belongs to God. In the end David received everything that previously belonged to Nabal!

God bless you!

Ps Joseph Dass josephdass@optusnet.com.au

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Who am I? — Sadhguru This happened in the Cincinnati Airport.

A very important looking man came, rushed into the airport. There was a long line at the check-in counter. This man jumped the line, went straight to the counter and thrust his passport and his ticket. The lady at the counter said, “Sir there is a line; please stand in line.” He said, “No, No. I am in a hurry I need to go.” She said, “No please go stand in the line.” Then he said, “Do you know who I am?” She promptly picked up the microphone and said, “There is a man here who doesn't know who he is, can somebody help him?”

Can somebody help him? Now nobody can help him because everybody is in the same state.

Everybody is existing here without knowing the essential nature of who he is. Without knowing the very fundamentals of what this is, we are trying to make a life. That is the whole confusion. So if this question comes up “Who am I?” This is the most profound question in your life. Because if you don't know who you are, do you know anything else for sure? If you do not even know who you are, can you be capable of knowing who somebody else is, or what

“Who am I?” This question exists, screaming in your body, screaming in your mind. If you just remove the surface nonsense, it is screaming within you to know the answer. When you don’t clear the surface chatter of the mind, “Who am I?” is a mere question. If you clear up your surface nonsense, you will see “Who am I” is just the whole thing.

Nothing else is there. That is the biggest thing. something else is? It is all one big joke. Once you don't know who you are, it is one big joke and the only consolation is that the majority of the population is with you.

This is the first and

6 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024

foremost thing you should do with your life.

First to know who this is, what is the nature of my existence? If you do not know what is the nature of your existence, you live by accident. Everything is by accident, by assumption and by opinion; there is no reality.

“Who am I?” This

question exists, screaming in your body, screaming in your mind. If you just remove the surface nonsense, it is screaming within you to know the answer. When you don’t clear the surface chatter of the mind, “Who am I?” is a mere question. If you clear up your surface nonsense, you will see “Who am I”

is just the whole thing.

Nothing else is there. That is the biggest thing.

This question “Who am I” is not really an experiment or a mere question of curiosity. This is something that tears you. So till it tears you apart, you will not know what is inside it.

Ranked amongst the fifty

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

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024 — 7

GOPIO Gold Coast hosts 75th Indian Republic Day at Robina GOPIO Gold Coast hosted the 75th Indian Republic Day celebrations on Saturday, 27th January 2024, attended by approximately 100 people from the Gold Coast and the wider Indian and multicultural Community.

The event was graced by the presence of QLD MP for Surfers Paradise JohnPaul Langbroek (Shadow Minister for Seniors, Communities and Disability Services & Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, QLD MP for Bonney – Sam O’Connor(Shadow Minister for Environment and the Great Barrier Reef, Shadow Minister for Science and Innovation, Shadow Minister for Youth, Gold Coast City councillor Herman Vorster, Umesh Chandra OAM

Executive Vice president GOPIO International and several other dignitaries and representatives of the many Indian and multicultural communities.

India Republic Day

represents the true spirit of the independent India.

The highlights of the event included a traditional welcome to the country by the Ngarang-Wal Gold Coast Aboriginal Association,

where some of the members were honoured with the gift of Ochre, the singing of the Australian and Indian National Anthem and Shloka chanting by the Mantra group, classical

Bharatanatyam dances performed by the talented students of Rhythm India School of Dance and a beautiful ode to the almighty

by Mr Sanjay Dar. Attendees enjoyed delicious Indian snacks by the ‘Maha catering group’, which they enjoyed while mingling after the formal proceedings.

The GOPIO GC Indian

Republic Day event was an excellent opportunity to bring together people of Indian origin and proudly display both the traditional Australian and Indian culture and heritage to the broader community.

QLD MP and Shadow Minister kindly sponsored the event for multiculturalism Mr John Paul Langbroek.

Indian Art Exhibition organised GOPIO Gold Coast hosts the

by GOPIO Gold Coast Australian Citizenship Ceremony

GOPIO-GC was recently invited to organise an art exhibition at the Robina Community Art Gallery (opposite the Robina Community Library) to coincide with the 75th Indian Republic Day celebrations.

The GOPIO-GC committee requested the community to lend their artwork for such an exhibition. The response from the community was overwhelming, and we were able to launch the exhibition on the 23rd of January, 2024.

Anthony Shorten, a strong advocate for multiculturalism, formally opened the exhibition.

Numerous artists and community representatives attended the launch.

The art on display included

oil paintings, watercolours, cross-stitch needlework, Madhubani paintings, and Lippan art.

This showcases the sheer diversity of Indian art. GOPIO-GC thanks Asha Jose, Kamiya Talati, Lakshmi Narasimhan,

8 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024

Megha Dasog, Neelam Maheshwari, Nidhi Patel, Seema Chauhan, Smitha Mandre Jackson, Sudha Manian and Varsha Badhe for their contributions. The display is scheduled to run till the 4th of Feb 2024.

This Australia Day weekend, we at GOPIO Gold Coast were thrilled to host an inspiring Australian Citizenship Ceremony, marking a significant milestone in the lives of our newest Aussie citizens.

It was a day filled with joy, pride, and a shared sense of belonging in the beautiful mosaic of Australian society.

Thank you to Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate for presiding over the ceremony, Mayoress Ruth Tate for your kind support, and MP John-Paul Langbroek, Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism, for welcoming the 50 new citizens. Moktiar Singh (Mok) for being the Mc for the ceremony.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024 — 9

Australia Day & Indian Republic Day 2024 – Dual Celebration

The Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) hosted a dual celebration of India's 75th Republic Day and Australia Day on the 26th of January 2024 at SunPAC, Sunnybank, in Brisbane.

In line with the FICQ's tradition, representatives from Australia's First Nations people, three levels of government, and community and business leaders celebrated this annual event.

Held under the aegis of the National Australia Day Council, Brisbane City Council (BCC), Lord Mayor of Brisbane Adrian Schrinner, this remarkable day was sponsored by Springfield City Group, Southern Cross University, Brisbane City Mahindra, Village Roadshow Theme Parks, and Study Queensland.

Mr. Zain Chams served as the master of ceremonies for the evening, executing his role with great skill and confidence. He adeptly engaged the distinguished assembly of dignitaries,

community figures, and business leaders who were in attendance, adding to the overall success and ambience of the event.

Celebrations commenced with the traditional lighting of lamps by distinguished guests, FICQ Patron, Advisers, Executive Team, and Presidents of the member organisations, followed by the 'Acknowledgement of the Country' by Ms Taleatha Wright-Morgan.

Students of Sargam Music Academy enthralled those present with their musical renditions of the Australian and Indian national anthems.

Various distinguished speakers spoke at length, celebrating a genuinely multicultural Australia and how the Indian diaspora ensured 'Unity in diversity' was the bedrock of community prosperity and harmony.

The celebration also involved cultural performances: Indigenous dance by Ms Taleatha Wright-Morgan, classical Bharatnatyam dance by Avni, Fusion dance by Let’s Bollywood Dance group, melodious singing by Himadri, Didgeridoo playing

by Glenn Barry, a foot-

tapping dance performance

by Tapori Dance group and an absorbing interactive activity about India and

Australia by the Cultural Coordinator, Mrs Jyoti-Amarjot Goraya.

The dual celebrations

culminated with a vote of thanks delivered by the Vice President, Mr. Mul Chand.

The Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ), under the leadership of its President, Mr. Anoop Nannuru, expressed profound gratitude to all attendees for their ongoing participation in uniting the Indian and Australian communities year after year. The executive team of FICQ, alongside the broader Indian and multicultural communities, dedicated immense effort to ensure the resounding success of this event.

Greater Springfield Kite Festival 2024 Soaring to New Heights at Woodcrest Oval Ground In celebration of Australia Day and Indian Republic Day, the Greater Springfield Indian Association (GSIA) proudly presented the second edition of the Greater Springfield Kite Festival at Woodcrest Oval Ground. This spectacular event transformed the skies into a lively canvas of colours, marking a joyous occasion for the local community.

A Vibrant Display of Colors and Celebration With a Live DJ Commencing at noon and continuing until 6 PM, the Woodcrest Oval Ground became a bustling activity centre.

Attendees were captivated by the enchanting sight of kites in various shapes and sizes gracefully dancing in the sky, embodying themes of unity and joy.

Diverse Cultural Experiences The festival featured a mesmerising kite display and a blend of cultural experiences. A live DJ provided a lively soundtrack while traditional Indian food stalls

offered delectable flavours.

Vibrant stalls showcasing exquisite jewellery and local spiritual stores contributed to the mystical atmosphere, providing attendees with opportunities for spiritual and recreational activities.

Community Unity and Engagement Local businesses actively engaged in the festival, creating a vibrant marketplace within the event grounds. Firms and representatives from Greater Springfield showcased their offerings, fostering a strong sense of community bonding and camaraderie.

Commendations from

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Esteemed Guests Honourable Shane Neumann, Member of Parliament, appreciated GSIA and President Mukesh Dubey's efforts in organising the event. Other distinguished guests, including Honorable Milton Dick, Honorable Charis Mullen, Mayor Theresa Harding, and Councillor Paul Tully, applauded the festival's success and pledged ongoing support for future community events.

A Triumph of Unity and Diversity More than just an event, the Greater Springfield Kite Festival 2024 became an immersive experience celebrating diversity, unity,

and the rich tapestry of cultures within the community.

The soaring kites reflected the elevated spirits of attendees, creating enduring memories for all.

Expressions of Gratitude and Future Plans GSIA President Mukesh

Dubey conveyed heartfelt thanks for the community's enthusiastic participation, the unwavering support from local leaders, and lots of hard work and efforts by the GSIA team. With the resounding success of this festival, GSIA eagerly anticipates organising more vibrant and community-

centric gatherings in the future.

The Greater Springfield Kite Festival 2024 is a testament to the strength of community bonding and shared celebrations, solidifying its status as a hallmark event in the Greater Springfield calendar.

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An update on inflation – key take outs for the housing market

By Head of Research, Eliza Owen Today’s CPI results for the December quarter showed inflation has fallen once again, from 5.4% in September to 4.1%.

This marks the fourth consecutive quarter where inflation has declined on an annual basis, and the December result is below the 4.5% forecast made by the RBA last November. Falling inflation reflects softer demand in the economy, with weakness showing up in retail trade, a slight fall in job vacancies and a gradual rise in unemployment from lows in late 2022.

But the good news about falling inflation is in its implications for monetary policy. The more inflation comes in under expectations, the firmer the case for interest rates remaining on hold next week, and coming down later this year.

A reduction in interest rates is likely to boost housing demand. As seen in the rental market, fundamental demand for housing is very strong, but demand for home purchases has been influenced by high interest costs and limited borrowing capacity.

The RBA would probably not consider more exuberance in the housing market an ideal scenario if interest rates comes down. However, established dwelling purchases do not feed directly into inflation measures, and other macroprudential tools can still be used to ensure housing lending remains

prudent.

Housing measures in the CPI Housing makes up around 22% of the CPI basket that is used to calculate inflation over time (in fact housing has the largest weighting of all components within the CPI calculation).

The biggest sub-components of the housing measure are the change in the cost of newly constructed dwellings and major renovations by owner-occupiers, and the change in rents paid to landlords.

For the purchase of new homes, the CPI measure eased to 5.1%, down from 5.2% in the previous quarter and a peak of 20.7% in the year to September 2022.

While the rate of increase is easing, residential construction remains a substantial contributor to inflation overall, and was the most significant contributor to inflation in the quarter overall. High labour and material costs continue to put pressure on the price of

new homes.

Annual growth in the rent component of CPI was 7.3% in the December quarter.

The annual change in the rent component of CPI has reduced from 7.6% in the September quarter, marking the first signs of rent inflation easing in two-anda-half years. Historically, growth in the CoreLogic rent value index has been a leading indicator for the rent component of CPI. Given CoreLogic rent value growth peaked in early 2023, it is not surprising to see early signs of easing in growth of rent paid, but at 7.3%, annual growth is still well above the pre-COVID decade average of 2.3%.

One thing to note about CPI measures is that it captures the change in goods and services across the combined capital cities market.

CoreLogic rent values for the combined regional market of Australia have seen a marked decline in annual growth that far outweighs what has been seen in the capitals, down to 4.3% in 2023 (from a peak of 13.4% in the year to August 2021).

What’s the takeaway?

Inflation is still well above the RBA target range of 2-3%, but it is moving in the right direction, and it is falling faster than anticipated. The economic pain Australian households are feeling is working to unwind inflation, and firms up the case for interest rates to start falling some time this year.

Housing contributes a lot to high inflation through rent paid and the cost of new dwellings, but even these indicators are moving in the right direction. The rate of increase in rents paid is finally slowing, suggesting some hope for tenants that the rental market could turn a corner in 2024, which also indicated by CoreLogic rent measures.

Easing cost of living pressures should help to support an improvement in consumer sentiment, which

has been holding in deeply pessimistic territory since mid-2022. High cost of living pressures and high interest rates have been the key factors holding sentiment close to recessionary lows.

It's likely the lower than forecast inflation outcome for the December quarter, alongside a growing expectation of rate cuts later this year will help to lift consumer attitudes. If that is the case, we should expect housing activity to follow suit later this year.

Auction market off to a strong start after 2023’s ‘year of two halves’ Australia’s auction market is off to a strong start, with easing inflation and the prospect of an earlier than expected rate cut buoying vendor hopes and buyer appetites for an unconditional sale.

CoreLogic tracked 1,671 auctions last week, the second busiest start to the auction season on record.

The preliminary clearance rate came in at 73.9%, which was the highest since the week ending August 20 last year and a clear jump on the end of 2023 which saw final clearance rates end sub-60%.

Melbourne (71.9%), Sydney (76.3%), Adelaide (77.6%) and Canberra (80.0%) all recorded a preliminary clearance rate above 70%, with Brisbane not far off at 68.5%.

Across Sydney’s subregions, five cracked the 80% mark, including the Northern Beaches (82.4%), Eastern Suburbs (82.1%), Sutherland (81.3%), Inner

West (80.0%) and South West (80.0%). Melbourne’s North East (84.2%) and Mornington Peninsula (82.4%) also posted an early clearance rate above 80%.

CoreLogic’s 2023 Auction Market Review released today shows 96,177 homes went under the hammer across the combined capitals last year, an -8.0% drop on 2022 and the lowest number of auctions annually in three years. The 2023 clearance rate was 64.9%, up from 61.2% the year prior.

CoreLogic Economist Kaytlin Ezzy said it appears this year is starting with a step change.

“Contrary to the start of auction season this year, the 2023 auction market had a soft start.

The first quarter’s capital city auction numbers fell to levels not seen since the September quarter of 2020, when lockdowns and COVID restrictions

12 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024

hampered auction activity, and remained lacklustre through quarter two.

“At the same time, buyer demand started to normalise after values found a floor in January and prospective buyers sought to enter the market before values recovered.

This mismatch between supply and demand saw capital city clearance rates continue to trend higher through the first half of 2023, before exceeding the 70% mark for the first time since February 2022 in May, and holding above 70%for four consecutive weeks,” she said.

Despite four rate hikes through the first half of the year, Q3 saw an uplift in auction activity, with capital city auction numbers rising 22.1% compared to the previous quarter and 14.9% compared to the September quarter of 2022.

Ms Ezzy said it’s likely this unseasonal lift in

auction volumes through winter was partly due to a glut in prospective vendors, who had previously delayed selling, attempting to 'beat the rush' by listing before the spring selling season.

“This upward trend continued into Q4, with auction numbers rising 15.4% quarter on quarter and 19.6% compared to the 2022 spring selling season, which really tested the market. This rebalancing of auctions supply saw the combined capitals' clearance rate track lower as negotiating power shifted back in favour of buyers. This saw the success rate fall below the 60% mark over the final two weeks of December.

“Looking at last week’s early results, it’s possible the lower than expected inflation reading and prospect of early rate cuts is already boosting sentiment. The next few weeks should provide

further guidance on whether this strong result is simply some early year exuberance or a trend that can persist,” she said.

2023 Auction Market Review highlights • Melbourne was the busiest auction market in 2023, with 41,302 homes auctioned, down -7.4% on the previous year. Melbourne's annual clearance rate came in at 64.3%, up from the annual result recorded the previous year (61.8%), but below the average weekly rate seen over the past decade (66.8%).

• Sydney recorded both the smallest decline in annual auction activity and the largest improvement in annual clearance rates.

There were 36,844 homes auctioned, resulting in an annual clearance rate of 66.9%.

•

Across

the

smaller

auction capitals, Brisbane was the busiest market, with 6,831 homes taken under the hammer in 2023, followed by Adelaide and Canberra with 5,967 and 4,333 homes auctioned, respectively.

• Adelaide recorded the highest clearance rate for the second consecutive year, with 73.9% of auctions returning a successful result. Brisbane came in second among the smaller capitals with a clearance rate of 58.7%, followed by Canberra (55.6%).

• Perth saw 661 homes auctioned in 2023, with 45.7% returning a successful result.

• Tasmania saw 24 of the 81 homes taken under the hammer successfully sold at auction.

See the full report including suburb results by city at www.corelogic. com.au/news-research.

We found our dream home in Brookwater

The Brookwater 5 min Neighbourhood - 12 Schools supported by the University of Southern Queensland and TAFE Queensland Springfield campuses.

- 22 Childcare Centres - Mater Private Hospital Springfield & Health City Mater Public Hospital opening 2026 - Orion Springfield Central including Event Cinemas

Brookwater is a distinct blend of living, golf and leisure, with design at the centre of everything we do. From inception, Brookwater has collaborated with leading design organisations to shape a living environment where home design, stunning landscape architecture and amenities come together to create spaces where people feel at home and part of a master design for luxurious living.

Premium homesites offering excellent amenities and lifestyle options are still available. Live your best life at Brookwater.

- Robelle Domain Parklands with swimming lagoon

Find Your Community at Brookwater CALL US NOW OR VISIT A SALES CENTRE: 07 3814 5177 Sales Centre: 3 Birchwood Crescent, Brookwater. Open daily 9am - 5pm Experience Centre: 1 Tournament Drive, Brookwater. Open daily 10am - 4pm

B R O O K WAT E R R E S I D E N T I A L .C O M . A U

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

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Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland Samaj Havan Yajna Satsang at Queensland Vedic Cultural Centre

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

Maharishi Swami Dayanand Saraswati Ji by Acharya Harish Chandra As we approach Maharishi Swami Dayanand Saraswati Jayanti February 12 we are reminded of Maharshi having devoted his life primarily to shine the light of the Vedas.

He is known for several contributions: 1) social reformer for girl education, widow remarriage, and to propagate the true Vedic Varna-Vyavastha based on the merits of an individual, in place of the birth-based caste system, 2) for initiating the freedom struggle, favouring country made goods, reminding Indians of their ancestors who ruled the world as Chakravarti Emperors, 3) cow protector and advancing a vegetarian diet void of meat, fish and eggs, and so on,Swami was a strong exponent of

women’s rights.However, those associated with Arya Samaj must remember him primarily as Param Vedoddharak, meaning bringing back the message of the Vedas. His diagnosis for all the ills of the nation was that it had deviated from

the message of the Vedas as if they were ‘locked in a steel box’, its key untraceable.

The correct method of interpreting the Vedas was not known to anybody and nobody cared about it. In such a precarious condition, he unlocked the mystery using the classical approach called Aarsh, evolved by the great Rishis in pre-Maha Bharat period, more than 5000 years ago. This is the singularly most important contribution of his: he unlocked the deep meanings of the Vedas. The day will definitely come when the world will breathe in the fresh air of the Vedic message and that will come sooner than later . Until then we have to work very hard to practice, preach and propagate the Vedas,

selflessly and tirelessly.

Maharishi Swami Dayanand Saraswati was more than a religious leader who left deep impact on the society. He founded the Arya Samaj that brought about changes in the religious perception.

What ultimate compliment and tribute we can pay to Swami Ji and thank him for the legacy and mission he has left us to carry on and whatever we do in the Arya Samaj we should remember and observe . the message from our Maharishi who abhorred all kinds of untouchability and discrimination. He said, The one who upholds the highest principles, moral values and ethics, righteous and noble ideals is an Arya.

क्वींसलैंड वैदिक सांस्कृतिक केंद्र ब्रिस्बेन में श्री राम मंदिर अयोध्या के उद्घाटन का उत्सव

अयोध्या में स्थित चक्रवर्ती आर्य राजा श्री रामचन्द्र जी महाराज के मन्दिर के उद्घाटन के अवसर पर आप सबको बहुत-बहुत शुभकामनाएं। हिंद ू काउं सिल ऑफ ऑस्ट्रेलिया, आर्य प्रतिनिधि सभा क्वींसलैंड, हिन्दू स्वयंसेवक संघ और कई अन्य संगठनों द्वारा ब्रिस्बेन ऑस्ट्रेलिया में श्री राम जी जन्मभूमि समारोह मनाया गया-भारत के अयोध्या में श्री राम मंदिर के महत्वपूर्ण उद्घाटन के उपलक्ष्य में । दो दिवसीय कार्यक्रम रविवार 21/1/2024 एवं सोमवार 22/01/2024 . आर्य प्रतिनिधि सभा क्वींसलैंड द्वारा रविवार को क्वींसलैंड वैदिक सांस्कृतिक केंद्र में विशेष यज्ञ के साथ कार्यक्रम प्रारं भ हुआ । उत्साही भीड़ के बड़े समह ू , उत्साहित प्रतिभागी, एकजुट भीड़ और दो दिन का सुन्दर कार्यक्रम । सभी मेहनती स्वयंसेवकों, उत्साही कार्यकर्ताओं

के प्रति बहुत आभार और गहरी कृतज्ञता। आप सभी को धन्यवाद जी । हम बहुत प्रसन्न हैं, इसलिए कि श्री रामचंद्र जी आर्य थे, हम उनके वंशज हैं, वे हमारे पर्व ू ज हैं। श्री रामचन्द्र जी महाराज वेदों के विद्वान ्, न्यायकारी, सत्यवादी, प्रजा के अत्यंत प्रिय, दुष्टों को दं ड

18 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024

दे ने वाले, सज्जनों का सम्मान करने वाले, रघुकुल की परं पराओं के रक्षक, माता पिता के सेवक, भाइयों के साथ प्रेम करने वाले, सब के साथ न्याय पर ू ्ण व्यवहार करने वाले, अति उत्तम आर्य राजा थे। उनके आदर्श आज लाखों वर्ष बाद भी जीवित हैं, तथा सब आर्यों की एवं संसार भर

के मनुष्यों की प्रेरणा के स्रोत हैं, अर्थात सब संसार को जीवन की दिशा दिखाने वाले हैं। वे सच्चे ईश्वर भक्त थे, सब कार्य वेदों के अनुसार करते थे। प्रतिदिन यज्ञ संध्या उपासना तथा निराकार ईश्वर का ध्यान करते थे। आज के दिन उनके जीवन से हम सब को भी ये गुण धारण करने चाहिएँ। आइए, सभी मिलकर बड़े उत्साह से इस उत्सव को मनाएं और ज़ोर से बोलें, मर्यादा परु ु षोत्तम श्री रामचन्द्र जी महाराज की जय ।

ओ३म ् GOD ईश्वर परमात्मा

GOD is the supreme power WHO has provided us with whatever we have in our life and we are devoted to GOD and we express our gratitude towards HIM in the form of our praises,good honest righteous deeds and prayers. GOD is the efficient cause of all true knowledge and all that is known through knowledge.

GOD is existent, intelligent and blissful.

HE is omnipresent, formless, omniscient, just, merciful, unborn, endless, unchangeable, beginningless, unequalled, the support of all, the master of all, immanent, unaging, immortal, fearless, eternal, holy, and the master of all.

HE alone is worthy of being worshipped Worship of GOD based on the VEDIC scriptures is called Ishwar Stuti Prarthana Upasana (ईश्वर स्ततु ि प्रार्थना उपासना). The word Ishwar means Supreme Master of all the spiritual and physical wealth of the universe, Stuti means appreciating and understanding the attributes of GOD, Prarthana is a prayer to GOD to be our guide and adopting virtuous

practices of life, and Upasana literally means getting close to GOD through the practical and spiritual yoga (meditation) The VEDAS were revealed

by GOD to the four Rishis Agni, Vayu, Aditya and Angira in the beginning of the human shrishti. Among all men those four Rishis alone were purest in heart, therefore, GOD revealed the true knowledge to them only. The message revealed was not in any country’s language as it is for the whole of humanity and not for a particular country or sect. Hence it was revealed in Sanskrit. The VEDAS were then taught to Maharishi Brahma Ji by the four Rishis making him the first teacher to know and preach all four VEDAS. The main purpose of VEDAS is to experience GOD and become enlightened by knowing the truth.

Materialistic and Spiritual knowledge in VEDIC hymns is given only for this very purpose. Hence, the primary object of physical sciences as well is to understand the Creator through His well-designed creation.

The Chinmaya Mission National Camp in Brisbane to Empower Youth immersive activities, daily teachings from Swamiji, and captivating showcases of our youth's talents. With many CHYKs registered all over Australia, we eagerly

The Chinmaya Mission Yuva Kendra (CHYK) global youth wing program aims to inspire young adults to reach their full potential. Weekly classes teach the youth about values and teachings from Vedanta that they can apply in their everyday lives.

In Brisbane, our CHYK community is thriving, with a vibrant group of over 20 active members who have forged strong connections through engaging in various events and fundraisers.

Together, we strive to inspire personal growth and foster a supportive community.

In late December, Chinmaya Mission held its annual Global CHYK camp in the picturesque campus of Chinmaya International Residential School in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu.

Centred around the timeless epic tale, the Ramayana, the camp explored the principles of leading a purposeful life. Pujya Swamiji Swaroopananda, the Global Head of Chinmaya Mission, inspired the youth to join the journey of self-development by illuminating the relevance of this ancient narrative in our contemporary lives. Six

anticipate a weekend brimming with unforgettable experiences.

We extend a warm welcome to new members, prepared to embark on a journey toward

embracing and spreading love throughout the world.

As Swami Chinmayananda illuminated, “Love is to human hearts what the sun is to flowers.”

Brisbane CHYKs and many CHYKs from Australia and various countries such as the UK, Singapore and the US were fortunate to immerse themselves in the Ramayana through discussion groups, activities, bhajans and dance over the seven days.

The inclusive environment fostered a sense of belonging and acted as a catalyst for personal growth.

Looking ahead, Brisbane Chinmaya Mission is thrilled to host the Annual National CHYK Camp, coinciding with the 108th Jayanthi celebration of our founder, Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda.

The camp will explore the theme ' Winning the World with Love ' led by Pujya Swamiji Swaroopananda and facilitated by Swami Shrikaranandaji, the resident teacher for NSW, ACT, SA, and QLD. Drawing inspiration from the Global CHYK camp, the National camp promises

GOPIO International Convention 2024 to Kick Start Opportunities for Diaspora Indians, Building India’s Big Future CONTD. FROM PG 1 The convention will focus on India’s Present and Future and what role the Diaspora Indians can play in helping to realise this desirable future.

The convention theme is ‘Opportunities for Diaspora Indians in India’s Big Manifest Future.’ The New Jersey businessman, Prakash Shah, has been appointed the Convention Convener by the GOPIO International Executive Council.

At the launch ceremony, Shah said, “Lauding the positive, optimistic vision prevailing in India presents an opportunity to Invest in India, which provides the best and biggest opportunity in the World. The Bombay Stock Exchange has just crossed $4 Trillion and has overtaken Hong Kong to become the third largest in the world.

While India needs the 35 million Diaspora to invest, it is an incredible opportunity for the Diaspora to prosper.”

GOPIO International President Lal Motwani, who had earlier served as the Convener of the GOPIO convention in New York in 2016, said, “We are doing this major event in the USA after eight years, this time in New Jersey. This is a big opportunity for our vibrant Tri-State Area and the USA community to participate and help with this significant Call: (07) 3192 5188

From left – Ram Gadhavi GOPIO International Secretary, Prakash Shah Convention Convenor, Lal Motwani GOPIO International President, Thomas Abraham GOPIO International Chairperson event for the 35 million strong Indian Diaspora.”

GOPIO International Chairman Dr Thomas Abraham spoke about the history of GOPIO and its accomplishments since the formation of GOPIO in 1989, the implementation of the resolutions passed by the First GOPIO Convention, which included Dual Nationality and Voting Rights for NRIs. Dr Abraham said, “The government of India fulfilled halfway on dual nationality by issuing an Overseas Indian Citizen (OCI) Card and voting rights for Indian citizens living outside India if they register at their home constituency.”

Dr Abraham further said that the organisation was started 35 years ago to look after and campaign against the human rights violations of the Indian Diaspora worldwide and that the Diaspora has now achieved success in becoming political mainstream in most countries.

GOPIO International secretary Ram Gadhavi, who served as the Co-Convener of the First Global Convention in 1989, urged younger GOPIO members to become actively engaged and consider leading the organisation into the future. Gadhavi highlighted the importance of GOPIO chapters and explained

the organisation's intricate workings.

Five conference sessions are being planned at the convention: Diaspora Youth and Young Achievers and the role they can play in India’s Future and how GOPIO can facilitate their participation; Diaspora Women and their Growing Contributions in Various Sectors; Technologies and AI and other Innovations: Diaspora Indians Leading Research and Innovations; GOPIO Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Worldwide Networking of the Diaspora Businesses; and Medical and Health Issues and how Diaspora Indians can

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Participate in India’s Frontline Role in Pharmaceuticals, Vaccines and Medical Tourism and Propagating YOGA and its Benefits.

A 50-member convention committee has been set up with Prakash Shah as Convener, Dr. Asha Samant as Co-Convener, Chitranjan Belwariar as Secretary, and Srinivas Akarapu as Treasurer.

The Committee Chairs include the following: Awards – Lal Motwani, Finance/ Fundraising – Siddarth Jain, Reception – Hemant Patel, Souvenir Brochure – Jigar Shah with Dinesh Mittal and Lal Motwani as an advisor, Volunteers – Bharat Rana, Publicity/PR – Rohit Vyas with Vijay Shah as Media Representative/Adviser, Registration – Dhananjay Desai, Banquet – Dr. Rajeev Mehta, Additional Trips and Events – Shatrughan Dawani.

Vasu Pawar will chair the Conference Sessions for Youth, Dr Thomas Abraham for Diaspora Indians in Technologies and AI, Dr Asha Samant for Medical and Health and Prakash Shah for Networking Business through GOPIO Chamber of Commerce.

As part of the convention program, GOPIO is arranging a trip to Capitol Hill in Washington DC on Monday, April 29th, to campaign to the US Congressional Representatives on House bill HR 6542, “To amend the

Immigration and Nationality Act to eliminate the percountry numerical limitation for employment-based immigrants, to increase the per-country numerical limitation for familysponsored immigrants, and for other purposes.”

The delegates interested in supporting and travelling to Washington, DC, may contact GOPIO. Overseas delegates attending the convention are advised to register before an invitation letter for a visa may be sent out.

The nearest airport to reach the convention venue is Newark, New Jersey, and GOPIO will arrange pickup at the Newark Airport if informed in advance. From New York City airports, John F. Kennedy Airport or LaGuardia Airport, take a shuttle to Newark Airport, the pick-up point. GOPIO Convention will include a fun event, with some side trips, including optional trips to New York City, Atlantic City, and Washington DC. GOPIO is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit, secular organisation with Individual Life Members and over 100 chapters in 35 countries, committed to enhancing cooperation and communication between NRIs/PIOs and the local communities and facilitating making tomorrow a better world for the Indian Diaspora and the countries they live in.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024 — 19

SHRI RAM WAAPSI IN AYODHYA, INDIA

RETRIVING, RECLAIMING AND RE-TELLING WHAT THE MAINSTREAM MEDIA IN NEW ZEALAND AND AUSTRALIA GET WRONG.

Thakur Ranjit Singh, FIJI PUNDIT While studying journalism in New Zealand, one of my papers was on a White Mainstream media where the newsrooms of the mainstream media in NZ failed to reflect the demographic make-up of the country -it still remains white, and has not diversified or reflects the colours now celebrated in Australia and New Zealand population.

Same would be true in Australia.

Therefore, it is not surprising when no cultural or religious sensitivities are applied by European journalist, many of who are copy writers who copy from other overseas media like a blinkered BBC or Al Jazeera. Both TV 3/News hub in New Zealand and ABC, SBS and 9News came up with misleading news hurting to the Hindus in Australia and all around the world. Vishwa Hindu Parishad in Australia have taken up this case with relevant authorities in Australia, and accused these three media for promoting Hindu hate in Australia.

This complaint has been made to Newshub /TV 3 by Jai Chand of Fiji Seniors Federation of NZ. Jai Chand, in his complaint reported that: “Your reporting was inaccurate

and not sufficiently researched which has caused distress to some of the Hindu community in New Zealand.

It was reported that the mandir was constructed upon the site of a mosque which was destroyed by Hindu fundamentalists.

You fail to mention the site was the birth place of Lord Ram long before Moghuls and the invaders set foot in India.

You fail to state that the original mandir was destroyed numerous times by mogul invaders and thousands of men women and children were slaughtered by the invaders who were trying to defend the site of Lord Ram’s birthplace, or Janmabhoomi.

You also fail to mention that the high court of India declared the site as a Hindu place of worship thus the rightful site for the Temple.

Strangely, NZ media is so blinkered,

this CIVILISED action by India is a testament to the rule of law and a flourishing democracy that India today is, unlike most other countries sharing the belief of the invaders.

I would like to see that your research is accurate and TV station should correct and present the news in full . Also an apology to all the Hindus is expected."

It is important for such Europeans to see India and its History in a different light, where the King’s Britian is now led by a person of Indian origin and similar is the story in Canada and USA. What the Western journalists now need to appreciate is that India no longer remains the land of snake charmers and rope-walkers but has surpassed NASA in claiming the skies.

What the inauguration of Shri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya depicted in not only righting a wrong done historically by the Moghul invaders

over 500 years ago by forcefully building a mosque at the site of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi, the birthplace of Lord Rama in Ayodhya. All the evidence and background stories have already been covered by the long court case.

In case Hindus in the Diaspora wondered why we have the lead song”…Ram aayenge… aayenge Ram Ayenge….”Wasn’t He always there in India. No, this is about the historical fact about desecration and demolition of the original Shri Ram Mandir, from where Ram was banished to a tent some 500 years ago, and with this building of the temple, people of India were overjoyed to receive Ram after 500 years of banishment by the Moghul invaders.

The land on which the medieval mosque, Babri Masjid, stood is traditionally considered by Hindus to be the birthplace of the Hindu deity, Ram, and has been at the core of the Ayodhya dispute.

The five-judge Supreme Court bench heard the title dispute cases from August to October 2019. On 9 November 2019, the Supreme Court, headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi, announced their verdict; it

vacated the previous decision and ruled that the land belonged to the government based on tax records.

It further ordered the land to be handed over to a trust to build the Hindu temple. It also ordered the government to give an alternate 2.0 hectares (5 acres) tract of land to the Uttar Pradesh Sunni Central Waqf Board to build the mosque.

According to K.K. Muhammad, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) during excavation of the site had found remains of a temple there which was later used as evidence in the Supreme Court of India.

On 5 February 2020, the Government of India made an announcement for a trust named as Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth shetra to reconstruct a Ram temple there. It also allocated an alternative site in Dhannipur, Ayodhya to build a mosque to replace the Babri Masjid that was demolished in 1992.

Apart from righting a wrong, the events leading to building of Shri Ram mandir also depicted something of Hinduism in particular and India in general, that as the largest democracy in the world, India still, unlike those with belief of the invaders to India, believes in

and follows of rule of law, and not the rule of the jungle and force, and display of power which saw destruction of the original Shri Ram Janmabhoomi and mandir.

That is why this fight for Ayodhya took some five decades, and has been relatively subdued, with some violence that went out of control.

However, generally, India and Majority Hindu-country treated the case of Ayodhya in a civilised manner through the court system and evidence presented to it, largely based on the ASI, Archaeological Survey of India and many evidence which proves that Ram and Ramayan is not just a myth or a mythology that many Hindus mistake it for, and Congress India never really tried to tell the truth.

What the building of Shri Ram Mandir and related development in Ayodhya in particular, and throughout India depicts is that the foreign culture of the invaders had been holding the progress on India mostly under the dynastic Nehru family since 1947. The progress that India made under Modi in less than ten years far surpasses that under Congress for some seven decades.

Contd. on pg 30

God’s Witnesses… "Whispers of the Cosmos…”

Jesus said “Arise and Shine…”

God’s glory is on tour in the skies, God-craft on exhibit across the horizon.

Madame Day holds classes every morning, Professor Night lectures each evening.

Their words aren’t heard, their voices aren’t recorded, But their silence fills the earth: unspoken truth is spoken everywhere.

- Psalm 19:1-4 (MSG) Dear Reader, We hope and pray that you are focussed on your right priorities for 2024.

The right priority includes trusting and putting God first in your life. For it is written “Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness…”

(Matt. 6:33).

Our theme of the message is simple and clear; to make God real and personal. And to reveal our Creator as a God of compassion and forgiveness.

So that we may know how to relate to Him. Just like a Father and Children have a loving and living relationships.

It is important to understand that God is not an object or an image or an imagination of human

mind. God is a living and loving Person. His awesome power and characters are unchanging from generation to generation. We find this fascinating truth revealed through the pages of The Holy Bible. This is a life transforming and marvellous a truth.

If you follow a religion, it will never fully satisfy your longing to meet the living and loving God. But if you follow the One who truly loves you, you will begin to experience true new life. You begin to His plan to give you a purpose driven life.

Let us consider God’s powerful witnesses today.

King David writes in Psalm 19 that heavens declare the gory of God; Starry skies proclaim the work of His awesome hands. That is a breath taking statement. To me this passage is very personal and powerful.

It reminds of my wonderful childhood memories.

I grew up sleeping under the stars.

The clear night sky with twinkling stars bestowed me with such blissful sleeps.

My family escaped the heat of the summer nights in India, by sleeping on the roof

20 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024

top. This was the only way to cool off without fans or air conditioning.

I had an unlimited view of the dazzling stars in the cool night sky.

Gazing in awe upon the glittering stars for hours, I would ask my mother many questions: Who made these stars mum?

How are they made?

How many stars are in our sky?

Little did I knew back then; Almost 30 years later the answers to my questions would come from an unlikely source - The Holy Bible.

The Holy Spirit revealed to me the majesty of creation through the Scriptures. Here is how my story goes: "Whispers of the Cosmos…”

In a small town nestled between hills and fields, a child's innocent inquiry became the key to unlocking

the mysteries of the universe that had baffled mankind for centuries.

The child, with a heart full of curiosity, stood on the precipice of a journey that would transcend generations.

Because this a timeless tour of the cosmos.

As the child delved into questions like, "Hey mum, who made all these stars?" their mother became a guide, weaving tales of ancient myths and scientific wonders.

Each bedtime conversation became a portal to the vast unknown, sparking a flame of curiosity that had been smouldering since the dawn of time.

The mysteries of the universe had intrigued mankind for centuries.

Scholars, astronomers, and philosophers had dedicated their lives to understanding the celestial wonders, yet the answers remained elusive.

The child's questions echoed the collective pondering off the past generations.

As the child continued seek understanding, "How many stars are in the sky, mum?" and "How are these made, mum?" the magnitude of the mysteries became apparent.

Scientists, philosophers, and dreamers alike had grappled with these cosmic enigmas, seeking understanding in the vast expanse that stretched beyond the confines of Earth.

The child's inquiries, innocent and pure, resonated with a collective yearning for knowledge that transcended time. The townspeople, inspired by the child's curiosity, found themselves revisiting their own contemplations about the cosmos. Conversations in tea stalls and gatherings were flavoured with discussions about the stars, galaxies, and the very fabric of the universe.

And so, the child's innocent inquiries not only opened a gateway to the mysteries of the universe but also became a beacon that united humanity in its quest for understanding.

As the nights passed, the stars above continued to twinkle, silently witnessing a world coming together in pursuit of the cosmic whispers that had intrigued and perplexed mankind throughout the ages.

As this child grew into adult, he encountered His Creator. The God who whispers through Cosmos that He created. This is Jesus Christ. The Word of God who was always existed in eternity. Through Him-Jesus all Heaven and Earth were created.

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

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

For the Bible says that, all have sinned and fallen short of your Holy way of life.

Therefore, forgive my many sins. I believe that Jesus died for my sins and rose again for my salvation (Moksha). Give me a new mind and heart to know your word and your ways. I pray this Jesus name.

Amen Please email to us your encounter experience, so we can help you to grow in the understanding your Creator and Redeemer. navig8grace@gmail.com

Call: (07) 3192 5188

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024 — 21

Maharshi Valmiki Valmiki is called the Adi Kavi, the first poet of Sanskrit literature. He composed the epic Ramayan, the Journey of Ram. Shree Ram who is identified as Maryada Purushottam, a perfect great person, symbolises Indian ideals and is worshipped as an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The primary source of information about Ram is the ancient epic written in Sanskrit titled the Ramayan. Maharshi Valmiki composed this book, which is identified as Valmiki Ramayan.

Subsequently many other versions of Ramayan have been written, and the story of Ram has been retold, reinterpreted, rewritten and translated in other languages, with changes in details reflecting the needs of the society of the time.

Ram has been worshipped over millenniums and temples dedicated to him can be found in India and in many other countries.

During alien occupation of India, many temples were desecrated and destroyed. The Ram temple at his birthplace Ayodhya was one of them.

Following a decision by the Supreme Court allowing the Ram temple to be built at its original site in Ayodhya, the Government of India announced the creation of a trust known as Shree Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra.

This trust was made responsible for the construction and management of the Ram temple.

Bhoomi-poojan was performed prior to the commencement of building.

In January 2024, the Pran Pratishtha or consecration ceremony was completed. The Pran Pratishtha ceremony is the act of transforming an idol into a deity, making it divine with the power to accept prayers and grant blessings. After 500 years, the historical Ram temple has been restored at his birthplace.

Early life – According to a tale in the Skand Puran, Valmiki was born a Brahmin. Once there was no rain for twelve years in the region where he lived. For the sake of his famished family, he started robbing people. In the course of his lawless activities, he met the Saptarshis, the seven sages and tried to rob them. But the learned sages felt pity on him and showed him the folly of his ways. One of them gave him a Mantra to meditate upon. The Brahmin turned bandit became so engrossed in its recitation that he did not notice an anthill developing, which eventually covered his entire body. The Sanskrit word for anthill is valmik. When the sages returned and heard the sound of the mantra coming from the anthill, they blessed him and said, "As you have achieved great Siddhi seated within a valmik, you will become well-known in the world as Valmiki.”

The book Shree Bhaktamal provides another account of Valmiki’s early life. He was born in an Angira Gotra Brahmin family. He was named Ratnakar.

His father’s name was Pracheta.

In his youth, Ratnakar came into contact with robbers and outlaws. He joined their group and became engaged in illegal activities. He would rob and kill innocent and vulnerable people.

For many years, he continued these felonious pursuits.

One-day, sage Narad was passing through the forest where Ratnakar was waiting for a

prey. He approached Narad and instructed him to surrender his valuables. Narad was carrying a Veena or lyre, an Indian string instrument, his only possession of worth. He offered the lyre to Ratnakar, who did not know what to do with the instrument.

He asked Narad to play it.

Narad played beautifully on the lyre and sang devotional songs praising God’s glory. The melodies and songs mesmerized Ratnakar.

Narad advised Ratnakar against performing sinful activities such as robbing and killing innocent people, as he would face severe retributions in the afterlife. Ratnakar defended his actions by claiming that he had to feed and support his large family and had no other means to earn a living.

Narad said to Ratnakar, “Ask your family members whether they are a partner in sharing your earnings alone or will they also share the sins you are accumulating through your actions”.

Ratnakar became confused and came to believe that the sage was trying to deceive him with an intention to escape. Narad sensed his demeanour. He asked Ratnakar to tie him to a tree with strong ropes. He would remain tied to the tree until Ratnakar returned with responses from his family members. After ensuring the sage was securely tied and would not flee, Ratnakar approached his family members and posed the question suggested

by Narad.

All family members responded identically.

They claimed that feeding and taking care of the family was his responsibility. They would gladly share any income he produced, however, all declined to share the sins he would had accrued to obtain profits. Ratnakar was shocked and realised the value of the sage’s reservation.

He returned to the forest, freed Narad from the binding and fell on his feet. He requested for guidance to atone for his sins and to detach him from sinful

22 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024

trades. Narad consoled him, sang the Ram Nam Mantra and asked him to chant it with devotion.

Due to his long association with violent activities, Ratnakar was unable to pronounce the word Ram. Then Narad advised him to chant Mra, the reverse order of the word Ram. Mra means killed, which Ratnakar could easily pronounce due to his familiarity with this word.

He sat on the ground and started his penance by chanting mra, mra. He continued chanting for a long period. Termites made a huge anthill over his body.

By continuous chanting with devotion, his pronunciation became Ram, Ram, one of the names of Vishnu. His mind awoke and he was freed from the effects of previously committed sinful actions. After emerging from the termite anthill, Ratnakar became known as Valmiki. Narad taught him scriptures transforming him into a Maharshi, foremost of ascetics.

Adi Kavi – Valmiki had been a participant in the events of the Ramayan. The initial chapters about the beginning of its composition describe his role.

Once he was meditating in his hermitage on the banks of River Tamasa. Suddenly, sage Narad appeared before him playing his lyre. After traditionally welcoming the visitor, Valmiki asked him if he knew of any man born into the world who was blessed with all the human virtues. Then he enumerated the virtuous characters. The everwandering sage Narad informed Valmiki that in this very time, such a man was born in the world. His name was Ram, and he was the king of Ayodhya. He narrated the legend of Ram to Valmiki and then left his retreat for another destination.

Long after Narad’s visit to his ashram, the story of Ram haunted Valmiki.

He saw images of Ram’s life before his eyes whenever he shut them to meditate.

One morning Valmiki walked along the banks of River Tamasa

with his disciple Bharadwaj who was carrying his clothes. Looking at the clear sparkling water of the river, the sage decided to bathe in it. He sat dipping his feet in the flow and said to his disciple, “Look the water is like the heart of a rishi.”

While seated, he heard the sweetest song from a Kadamb tree, which had spread over the riverbanks with an awning and branches. He noticed two Kraunch birds playfully dancing, singing and making love on the tree. The sage was pleased with their amusement.

Suddenly a hunter hit the birds with an arrow. The male Kraunch fell to the ground below and died. The screams of the female kraunch filled the woodland. Valmiki was filled with pity and sprang to his feet trembling. He saw the hunter with a bow and arrow nearby. Valmiki became angry and a curse erupted from his mouth. मा निषाद प्रतिष्ठां त्वमगमः शाश्वतीः समाः। यत्क्रौञ्चमिथुनादे कमवधीः काममोहितम ्॥' Ma nishad pratishtham tvam agamah shashvatih samah; Yat kraunch mithunat ekam avadhih kam mohitam!

O fowler, you will not find rest in the long years of eternity, for you killed an unsuspecting bird in love.

Valmiki returned to his ashram thinking about the birds and the words he expressed in anger. He noticed that the text uttered formed a complete shlok, a couplet. He discussed it with his disciples, who consented.

This couplet is considered the first shlok in Sanskrit literature.

Next Brahma appeared before him, consoled him and instructed him to write the story of Ram, which he had heard from Narad. All the event of Ram’s life became clear to Valmiki with the blessing of Brahma. Then Valmiki wrote the Ramayan in the format of the jinx that he pronounced against the fowler at the river.

Valmiki appears on various further occasions in the Ramayan. For example, during his exile, Ram visited Valmiki’s ashram on the way to Chitrakut and sought his advice on his future course of action. Later, Valmiki played an important role in the events described in Uttarkand, the last canto of the Ramayan.

Ram decided to send Sita to the forest in response to a censure by a washerman in his kingdom.

On Ram’s order, Lakshman left the pregnant Sita in a forest near Valmiki’s hermitage. His disciples saw her and informed Valmiki about an abandoned woman. Valmiki recognised who she was, with his insight into the truthful background of the incidence and brought her to his hermitage. She lived there under his patronage and gave birth to twins Lav and Kush. Valmiki taught her sons scriptures, music as well as the arts of war.

When they were older, he taught them the Ramayan. Lav and Kush used to melodiously sing the Ramayan for sages and forest dwellers. Later they sang Ramayan in the court of Ram. It was Valmiki who brought Sita to the Ram’s court to demonstrate her innocence of the guilt charged by subjects of Ayodhya and witnessed Sita entering into the earth.

In addition to the Ramayan,

authorship of the books Yog Vashishth and Valmiki Samhita is attributed to Valmiki.

Maharshi - In the assembly of Ram’s court, while presenting Lav and Kush to Ram as his sons and confirming Sita’s innocence, Valmiki describes about himself.

He states, "I am the tenth son of the sage Pracheta. I do not remember having uttered a lie so far in my life. I say that these two boys are your sons. I performed penance for thousands of years.

I shall not accept the fruit of all my atonement if there is any blemish in Sita. I never entertained any ignoble thought, I never wronged any person, and I never spoke a vulgar word. I shall derive the benefit thereof only if Sita is void of sin."

In the Anushasan Parva of the Mahabharat, Valmiki was one of the great sages who visited Yudhisthir and advised him to worship Shiv. Yudhisthir was anxious of the sins he had committed in executing the Mahabharat war. Valmiki related his own experience of sin cleansing by worshipping Shiv, as follows. Once upon a time, certain ascetics had denounced him as one guilty of killing Brahmins. He became possessed of their spell. To remove their curse, Valmiki worshipped Shiv and was absolved of the sin.

The Vishnu Puran mentions Valmiki as the scion of Bhrigu clan. He was a Ved-Vyas or compiler of the Veds.

Goswami Tulasidas, who composed the Ramcharit Manas, Hindi version of the Ramayan, is believed to be an incarnation of Valmiki.

Legacy - Valmiki Ashram with a Hindu temple is located in the Chitwan district of Nepal, inside Chitwan National Park. It is close to Triveni Dham where Tamasa, Sona and Sapta Gandaki rivers meet. The deities worshipped in the temple include Ram, Sita and Valmiki. According to tradition, it is the place where Valmiki lived and wrote the Ramayan. It is believed that Sita stayed here during her pregnancy, and Lav and Kush were born here.

Ayodhya Airport has been renamed as Maharishi Valmiki International Airport Ayodhya Dham.

Although Maharshi Valmiki is honoured universally as Adi Kavi and composer of the Ramayan, a variety of communities mostly from Dalit or depressed classes worship him as a deity. They claim their descent from him and follow the Valmiki sect of Hinduism. They adore Valmiki as a patron saint and consider him an incarnation of God. They depict him wearing red attire and address him with the term Lal Bhesh. Valmiki temples are open to all. The most important festival of the Valmiki sect is Pragat Diwas, or Valmiki Jayanti.

It is celebrated as Valmiki’s birthday on the full moon day of the Ashwin (September – October) month of the Hindu calendar.

Valmiki became immortal with the composition of the Ramayan. While encouraging him to write Ram’s story, Brahma stated, “As long as the mountains and rivers remain on the surface of the earth, the story of Ram will be remembered, and as long as Ram’s tale endures so shall be you.”

—Awadhesh Sharma www.hinduguru.com.au

Call: (07) 3192 5188

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024 — 23

Who, What, Where, When...

AIBC held a business networking cocktail function at Stamford Plaza on 18th January, Nik Senapati. President ( Right) welcomed and updated everyone on the activities and also welcomed new members.

Bondita Chakraborty, Janeth Deen OAM, Umesh Chandra OAM, Shane Newman MP , Usha Chandra, Mithun Chakraborty at FICQ Australia Day and Indian Republic Day celebration

Pradip Gorasia, Deputy Leader of Opposition John Paul Langbroek, LNP Candidate for Mansfield Pinky Singh, Leader of Opposition David Crisafulli MP, Umesh Chandra OAM, Shaji Theckanath

Hon Charis Mullen MP colour coordinated with Umesh Chandra OAM at FICQ Indian Republic Day and Australia Day event.

Umesh Chandra OAM teamed with Balasubramanian (TAQ) and won the Carrom board game – lots of fun.

Members of Tamil Association of Queensland at their Australia Day family day at Coorparoo State School

Umesh Chandra OAM was delighted to speak at the Tamil Association of Queensland Australia Day and Indian Republic Day celebration.

BAPS North Brisbane Branch held special prayers on the auspicious occasion of Ayodhya Ram Mandir Inauguration

Umesh Chandra OAM, Jeannie Mok OAM, David Crisafulli MP, Connie da Cunha, LNP Candidate Pinky Singh at City Hall 24 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024

RT Hon Lord Mayor of Brisbane Councillor Adrian Schrinner welcomes five hundred and fifty new citizens at a citizenship ceremony held at Brisbane City Council.

Who, What, Where, When...

Students of Sargam Music Academy sing the national Anthems at Indian Republic Day and Australia Day at the Indian Consulate office, Brisbane.

Aacharya Shree Vasant Kumar Shukla (fourth from left) of Auckland New Zealand visited Shre Vishnu Maya Mandir and met His Holiness Dharam Guru Pandith Tripathi Ji ( third from Left )

Professor Sarva Daman Singh OAM former honorary counsel for India In Queensland, raises the Indian Flag for India's 75th Republic Day

Indian Art exhibition displayed in Robina community Centre by GOPIO Gold Coast.

Madhuri Soni, Varsha Badhe, Dr Sunil Sharma, Preetham Krishnan, Usha Chandra, Umesh Chandra OAM, Ned President GCHCA, Pradip Gorasia President GOPIO Gold Coast, Mok Singh at GOPIO Gold Coasts Indian Republic Day and Australia Day function

Preetham Krishnan, Pradip Gorasia, Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate, Mayoress Ruth Tate, Umesh Chandra OAM, Usha Chandra at GOPIO Gold Coast Citizenship ceremony

Vietnamese Community in Australia, Brisbane Chapter honoured their committee members who have been instrumental in hosting this event for forty years

Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner delivered his speech at the Vietnamese Lunar New Year Celebration in front of a record-breaking crowd this year.

Federal speaker of the house- Milton Dick MP addresses the gathering at Vietnamese Lunar New Year, year of the Dragon

Bondita Chakraborty, Janeth Deen OAM, Umesh Chandra OAM, Shane Newman MP , Usha Chandra, Mithun Chakraborty at FICQ Australia Day and Indian Republic Day celebration Call: (07) 3192 5188

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024 — 25

The yogic techniques & the auspicious science of mantras to remove, stress, anxiety, mind-wandering, destroying all sins and attaining bliss. Part -4

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 world-renowned 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 the last article, we read about some yogic techniques and the power of mantras explained by Pujya Bapu ji. In this article, Pujya Bapu ji explaining about the types of japa, japakas (i.e. performers of japa) and different techniques, corresponding to four types of speech, to perform the japa of Vedic Mantras.

As per Pujya Bapuji’s holy ambrosial words: “Mantra are said to be of three types: Vedic, Sabari anil Tatnrik.

Tantrik Matura - Is something that I am neither aware of, nor do I recommend. Sabari Mantras are effective and give Mantra Siddhi (i.e.

The powers and goodness of the presiding deity of the specific mantra are transferred to the sadhaka) but even more effective are Vedic Mantras, but it takes time to get mantra siddhi.

Vedic Mantras are salutary and beneficial in this world as well as the other. Mantras

like ‘Om Namaha Shivaaya' etc. are categorized as Vedic Mantras. However, when these mantras are imparted

by Guru as per one’s eligibility, it adds another feather to latter's cap.

Divine sage Naradaji imparted the mantra ‘Om Namo Bhagavate Vaasudevaaya' to Dhruva and to Kings, he imparted the mantra: 'या दे वी सर्वभत े ु शक्तिरूपेण ू ष संस्थिता । नमस्तस्यै।। नमस्तस्यै।। नमस्तस्यै नमो नम:।।' “To that Devi Who lives in all beings in the form of Shakti, power, strength.

Salutations to her, salutations, salutations again and again.”

This was because, for the King, he thought - ‘He, being a King, possesses willpower, monetarypower and authority. On having Bhava-Shakti developed within, will be able to better take care of his subjects. That way, apart from the public being benefitted, even he will be emancipated.’ But Valmikiji wasn't given this mantra.

He was imparted the mantra – ‘Maraa-Maraa,’ so that his Muladhara Chakra, i.e. the chakra at the base of the spinal column where base tendencies of kama (lust), hatred, aversion, etc. reside; gets struck and is transformed in turn. So that chakra of Valmikiji was transformed, because of which he could scale spiritual heights. The fact that ‘(Lord) Rama would descend and that before Rama- Rajya (i.e. The Kingdom of Rama), there would be Rama-Vanavasa (i.e. the exile of Rama)' was something that he had already written beforehand.

Such is the kind of genius that one can attain via mantra-japa (repetition of mantra) and meditation.

Types of Japa There are 3 types of japa as prescribed in the scriptures: 1.

Vaachika-japa (i.e. Verbal repetition of Mantra): Vaachika-japa is the kind wherein the name of the Deity is pronounced verbally which is audible to others.

2.

Upamsu-japa (i.e.

Repetition in a whisper or humming): Upamsu-japa is the kind wherein lips murmur while repeating the name of the deity, but the words are inaudible.

3. Maanasika-japa (i.e.

Mental repetition of a Mantra): Maanasika-japa is the kind wherein neither the lips murmur, nor is there any audible sound; it keeps on repeating within. All the aforesaid japa-techniques have their own importance.

Initially, by performing japa with elongated chanting, one is supposed to concentrate the mind; and then later, by means of

26 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024

Upamsu-japa, one tends to become a bit introverted.

Finally, the state, wherein the repetition of mantra goes on within your heart and you experience the same by being a ‘witness’, is that of Maanasika-japa. In the midst of japa, whenever the mind tends to wander hither-thither, one should repeat Omkara, Hari Aum or God’s name verbally, with elongated chanting.

Types of Japakas (i.e. performers of japa) There are 4 types of japakas: 1. Kanishtha-japaka (i.e. fourth class japaka): Those, who perform the japa with some expectation, in order to gain or attain something; are said to be Kanishtha-japakas.

2.

Madhyamajapaka (i.e. third class japaka): Japakas, who, after being imparted with Gurumantra, repeat the mantra only for the prescribed number counting to 10 malas, just for the sake of completion of niyama (i.e. spiritual routine), are said to be belonging to Madhyama category.

3.

Uttama-japaka (i.e. First class japaka): There are some japakas, who, apart from completing their niyama, repeat the mantra for 2-4 extra rounds of rosary, and at times, even repeat the mantra (mentally) while walking around. These are supposed to be japakas of Uttama category.

4.

Sarvottamajapaka (i.e. the best japaka): There are some japakas whose mere company, vicinity or even a glimpse triggers the japa in the mind of those around them. Such japakas are said to be Sarvottama i.e. the best ones. Such great men. regardless of the level of the hundreds of thousands of people that they are surrounded by; when performing a kirtan (a devotional song in which lines arc sung by a leader and then repeated by a large group) and bless people with their gracious glance, people start becoming introverted and developing good sense for progress in their spiritual journey.

As per Pujya Bapuji's holy ambrosial words: “There are four different techniques, corresponding to four types of speech, to perform the japa of Vedic Mantras: 1. Vaikhari (Articulate or loud repetition of a Mantra): The japa, when performed aloud (so that it's audible to others), is called Vaikhari Mantra-japa.

2.

Madhyanm (Repetition of Mantra with middle or pranic level of speech): The way of japa in which there is lip and tongue movement, but none can know which mantra we are repeating. This is called

‘Madhyama Vani.’

3.

Pashyanti (Perceptive or illumined level of Japa with a subtle mental speech in the throat, unaccompanied by lip movement, at the level of individual consciousness): The way of japa in which there is neither lip-movement, nor tongue; yet, the process of repetition of Mantra is perceptible, is called Pashyanti Mantra-japa.

In this, the japa happens wholeheartedly and our mind becomes engrossed in the meaning of the Mantra being repeated.

4.

Para (Japa with the subtlest automatic speech in the heart, unaccompanied even by mental vibrations): When our thought-waves are about to merge in the meaning of the Mantra, we start experiencing Bliss while repeating the Mantra and the intellect starts getting steadied in the meaning of the Supreme Self: it is called Para Manira-japa.

Vedic Mantras are so powerful, not only do they prevent the untimely death of japaka, but also protect the people accompanying the latter! The one, who reads the Guru-Gita regularly, never meets an untimely death.

Please read more about mantra japa benefits in the next issue of Brisbane Indian Times, 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 RishiPrasad in your mailbox in Australia or to get free online subscription of Rishi -Prasad, please contact by email at bskamd@gmail.com or by WhatsApp/phone to Shri Yoga Vedanta Seva Samiti Au & NZ Inc. at +61 426 834 434 & +61 405 277 802.

Call: (07) 3192 5188

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024 — 27

The Holy Month Of Ramadhan 10 Ways to Prepare for Ramadan Prepared by M.Aslam All praise is due to Allah Ta'ala the cherisher and sustainer of the world, peace and blessing be upon the beloved of Allah (Prophet Muhammad saw) Im going to mention some few important things in order to prepare for Ramadan Kareem.

As we know Ramadan is very important for Muslims as we reform ourselves and uplift our spiritual life during this holy month The blessed & most beautiful month is near and what better time to prepare for it than right now. Some of us deceive ourselves into thinking that when Ramadan comes we will suddenly change and worship Allah night and day but we are only decieving ourselves in thinking like this.

The Sahaaba used to prepare for Ramadan six months in advance. So if we really want to make the best of this Ramadan then we need to prepare for it now!

This may be our last Ramadan for life is so uncertain. Then there is NO doubt that we must make the best of it for the Reward of EVERY good act in the month of Ramadan is multiplied many times over: The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “Whoever draws near to Allah during it (Ramadan) with a single characteristic from the characteristics of (voluntary) goodness, he is like whoever performs an obligatory act in other times. And whoever performs an obligatory act during it, he is like whoever performed seventy obligatory acts in other times.” (Sahih Ibn Khuzaymah, no. 1887) If there was a 75% sale on in the shops surely people would go crazy and even cue all night outside in order to be the first in the store to take advantage of this special offer. So in the same way why should we not take advantage of the immense rewards that are available in Ramadan?

The best way we can make the best of this Ramadan and grab the immense rewards that are available is to prepare for it NOW. The following are 10 ways in which we can prepare for this beautiful month starting from NOW: 1. Voluntary Fasts What better way of preparing ourselves to fast for 30 consecutive days in Ramadan than to fast the voluntary fasts.

Fasting Monday and Thursday: Abu Hurairah reported that the most the Prophet, (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasalam) would fast would be Monday and Thursday. He was asked about that and he said: “Prophet Muhammad (saw) said I fast on Monday because its my birthday and Thursday because the deeds of my Ummah is presented to

me (Ahmad; Hasan) Another is to fast the white days (13, 14 & 15th of each Islamic month): Abu Tharr Al-Ghefari said: “The Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said "O Abu Tharr! If you fast three days of every month, then fast the 13th, the 14th and the 15th [these are call the al-ayaam al-beedh, the white days]".

(Ahmad, an-Nasaa'i & atTirmithi; Sahih) Therefore we should fast these days in order to prepare for the fasting of Ramadan and even after Ramadan we should continue to do so for fasting will intercede for us on the day of judgement: Rasulallah (Salallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: "Fasting and the Qur’an will intercede for the slave on the Day of Resurrection.

Fasting will say: “O My Rabb! I prevented him from food and desires, so accept my intercession for him.’ And the Qur’an will say: “I prevented him from sleep during the night, so accept my intercession for him.’ He (Sallallahu `Alaihi Wasallam) said: ‘And they will (be allowed to) intercede.’”

(Ahmad, at-Tabarani, AlHakim, Sahih) 2. Reciting Qur’an Allah the exalted says: “The month of Ramadan is the one in which the Quran was sent down, a guidance for mankind, clear proofs for the guidance, the Criterion; so whoever amongst you witnesses this month, let him fast it." (Surah al-Baqarah 2:185) Ramadan was the month in which the Qur'an was first revealed so it is the month of the Qur'an. We should devote much of this blessed month reciting the Qur'an.

Az-Zuhri used to say upon the coming of Ramadan, “It is only about reciting the Qur’an and feeding the poor.”

Abdur-Raziq said, “When Ramadan came, Sufyan AthThawri would give up all acts of (voluntary) worship and devote himself to the recitation of the Qur’an.”

But for many of us the Qur'an has gathered a lot of dust since the last time we picked it up.

28 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024

As Ramadan is fast approaching we must blow off the dust and start to build a close relationship with the Qur'an for it will intercede with us on the day of judgement: "Recite the Holy Qur’an as much as we can for It will come as an intercessor for its reciter’ on the Day of Judgement" (Muslim) The Recitor will be in the company of Angels: ‘Aa'ishah related that the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “Indeed the one who recites the Quran beautifully, smoothly, and precisely, will be in the company of the noble and obedient angels. As for the one who recites with difficulty, stammering or stumbling through its verses, then he will have twice that reward.”

(Al-Bukhaari & Muslim) There are Ten Rewards for Every Letter Recited from the Quran in normal times but in Ramadan these rewards are multiplied: “Whoever reads a letter from the Book of Allaah, he will have a reward, and this reward will be multiplied by ten. I am not saying that 'Alif, Laam, Meem' (a combination of letters frequently mentioned in the Holy Quran) is a letter, rather I am saying that 'Alif' is a letter, 'Laam' is a letter and 'Meem' is a letter.” (At-Tirmithi) So what better time for us to get into the habit of reciting the Qur'an than to begin to do so right now. We should recite the Qur'an with its meanings and try to understand and implement it into our daily lives.

We should set ourselves realistic targets for how much we should begin to recite each day for e.g. we will recite 1 or 2 pages a day, half a juz (chapter), or 1 juz etc. We should recite however much we can manage and then build up gradually.

3. Praying Superogatory (Nafil) prayers In Ramadan every voluntary prayer carries the reward of a Fard prayer in normal times and there is nothing more rewarding than a Fard prayer so one

can imagine the immense rewards that are available in Ramadan for every voluntary prayer we pray.

The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “Whoever draws near to Allah during it (Ramadan) with a single characteristic from the characteristics of (voluntary) goodness, he is like whoever performs an obligatory act in other times. And whoever performs an obligatory act during it, he is like whoever performed seventy obligatory acts in other times.” (Sahih Ibn Khuzaymah, no. 1887) In order for us to take advantage of these immense rewards we should start begin now by praying all of the daily Sunnah and Nafil prayers so by the time Ramadan comes we will already be in the habit of praying all of our Sunnah and Nafils and so we cna increase our voluntary prayers even more so during Ramadan. This would be difficult if we were not in the habit of praying Sunnah and Nafil prayers in normal times.

By increasing our voluntary worship we can gain closeness to Allah as well as the company of Rasulallah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) in Jannah: Rabi'ah ibn Malik alAslami reported that the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: "Ask (anything)." Rabi'ah said: "I ask of you to be your companion in paradise." The Prophet (Sallallahu ALaihi Wasallam) said: "Or anything else?" Rabi'ah said: "That is it." The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said to him: "Then help me by making many prostrations (i.e., supererogatory prayers)."

4. Making Dua Many of us do not spend as much time as we should do in Dua. Even if we do we rush our dua and our hearts and minds are not present whilst supplicating to Allah.

Many of us rush our Dua's and our hearts are often not present whilst we are supplicating to Allah.

Therefore we lose out on much of the benefits and blessings of Dua. We must give more attention to our Dua's and try to concentrate

more and be more sincere in our Dua's imagining Allah watching us supplicate to him. We should humble ourselves making ourselves low and not worthy in front of Allah. We should try to cry if we can and have FULL hope that Allah will accept our Dua's if not in this world then in the hereafter.

Allah Almighty says in the Qur’an: "When my servants ask you concerning me, (tell them) I am indeed close (to them). I listen to the prayer of every suppliant when he calls on me."

The place of Dua is so honourable to Allah that the Prophet (Sallallahu AlaIhi Wasallim) said: "Nothing is more honourable to Allah the Most High than Du`a." (Sahih alJami` no.5268).

It is the most excellent of worship: He also said: "The most excellent worship is Du’a."

(Sahih Al-Jami` no. 1133) So let us get into the habit of making sincere Dua's from deep within our hearts and let us not be heedless when supplicating to Allah.

What better time than now for us to get into the habit of making more intense and sincere Dua's. So by the time Ramadan arrives we would have already got into the habit of making the long, sincere and intense Dua's which will readily be accepted during this blessed month especially whilst we are fasting and in the latter part of the nights during Tahajjud.

It may help to make a list of what we should ask of Allah suring dua's which we can refer to as a reminder as this may help us to make our dua's longer and more sincere covering everything we want to ask of Allah.

5. Sincere Repentance Ramadan is the month where we can gain mercy and forgiveness from Allah for all of our sins past and present.

We should know that Allah is most merciful and most forgiving and loves to forgive: Allah says: O son of Adam, if your sins were to reach the clouds of the sky and you would then seek My forgiveness, I would forgive you.

When a person sins and then sincerely turns to Allah for forgiveness, one will find Allah ready to accept his repentance and to forgive him, as this verse indicates: And whoever does a wrong or wrongs himself, but then seeks forgiveness from Allah, he will find Allah forgiving and merciful. (Surat an-Nisaa 4:110) Allah loves repentance and loves those who turn to him in repentance: Truly Allah loves those who turn [to Him] in repentance, and He loves those who keep themselves in purity. (Qur'an 2:222) Therefore we should get into the habit now of repenting to Allah so that in Ramadan we will make the best of repenting to Allah and continue to do so throughout everyday of our lives.

How unfortunate is a person who after the end of Ramadan does not gain any forgiveness of his sins from Allah but ends up piling more sins onto his account.

6. Generosity & Charity Rasulallah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) became even more generous in Ramadan than he already was.

Ramadan is a time for generosity and giving. It is a time when we think about those who have less than us as well as thank Allah for everything he has given us.

Ramadan is an honourable and blessed month, and the rewards for generosity are multiplied in it.

The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wassallam) said, “The best charity is that given in Ramadan.” (At-Tirmithi).

Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wassallam) said, “He who feeds a fasting person will gain the same reward as he will, without decreasing from the fasting person’s rewards.”

(Ahmad).

Therefore we should get into the habit of giving in charity now so by the time Ramadan arrives we would increase in our generosity, giving to those less fortunate than ourselves. We should give whatever we can afford as Allah looks at our intentions.

Surely in there hereafter we will regret that which we did not spend in the path of Allah.

7. Controlling the tongue Ramadan is a time where we must control our desires (nafs) aswell as our tongues: Rasulallah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “Fasting is not (abstaining) from eating and drinking only, but also from vain speech and foul language.

If one of you is being cursed or annoyed, he should say: ‘I am fasting, I am fasting.” (Ibn Khuzaimah, Ibn Hibban) CONTD. ON PG 29

The Holy Month Of Ramadhan CONTD. FROM PG 28 Therefore we must protect our tongue from vain speech and foul language. Protecting the tongue is preventing it from lying, back-biting, slander, tale-carrying, false speech and other things that have been forbidden in the Qur'an & Sunnah.

Those who control their tongues are of the best of Muslims: The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) was asked: “Which Muslim is best?” He responded, “One who the other Muslims are safe from his tongue and his hand.”

(Tirmidhi, #2504) We must not deceive ourselves into thinking that by the time Ramadan comes we will all of a sudden break a lifetime habit and control our tongues. Again this is another big deception. We must start controlling our tongues now for we cannot for changing lifetime bad habits is not an overnight process.

So how can we begin to control our tongues? This can be done by "THINKING BEFORE SAYING ANYTHING".

Not just talking without even thinking what we are going to say.

We must think before we speak and before saying anything we should think whether or not what we are going to say is going to please or displease Allah.

If we doubt that what we are about to say may anger or displease Allah then we

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should refrain from saying it. If we have nothing good to say then surely it is better NOT to say anything at all.

Remember we WILL be accountable for everything we said in our lives so we MUST start taking responsiblity for what comes out of our mouths NOW otherwise we will regret it later when it is too late.

Therefore we must get into the habit of "thinking before speaking".

So let us begin to control our tongues now so that by the time Ramadan comes we would have adopted good habits and would have been used to controlling our tongues and refraining from saying anything which may anger or displease Allah.

REMEMBER: If we do not protect our tongues then our fasts will be in vain: Rasulallah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “Allah does not need the fast of one who does not abandon false speech or acting according to his false speech.” (Sahih Bukhari) 8. Improving Character & manners Rasulallah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) came to perfect the character of man and the best of this Ummah are those wioth the best of characters: Rasulallah (Sallallahu Alahi Wasallam) used to say: "The best amongst you are those who have the best manners and character.” (al-

Bukhari) Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: "There is none heavier in the scales of the Hereafter than good character (Tirmidhi & Abu Dawud).

Rasulallah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) also said: “The best loved by me and the nearest to me on the seats on the Day of Resurrection are those who have the best manners and conduct amongst you, who are intimate, are on good terms with others and are humble, and the most hated by me and who will be on the furthest seats from me are those who are talkative and arrogant."

(Tirmidhi) Again as with making any big change perfecting our character and manners cannot be done overnight but we must make a start now so that by the time Ramadan comes we would have gained momentum in making the necessery changes to our characters in order for us to be the best of this Ummah and those closest to Allah.

Surely if good character and manners are the heaviest on the scales then can you imagine how much more heavier they will be if we behave with good character and manners during Ramadan?

So let us strive to perfect our manners, character and conduct towards others and know that these good deeds will be of the heaviest on the

scales and will enable us to reach the highest ranks of Jannah and the closest to Allah.

9. Moderation in eating On the authority of AlMiqdaam ibn MaadiyKarib who said: I heard the Messenger of Allah saying: "No human ever filled a vessel worse than the stomach.

Sufficient for any son of Adam are some morsels to keep his back straight. But if it must be, then one third for his food, one third for his drink and one third for his breath."

(Ahmad, At-Tirmidhi, AnNasaa’I, Ibn Majah ) Ibrahim al-Nakha’i, on of the teachers of Imam Abu Hanifa, may Allah have mercy on them both, mentioned: “The people ruined before you were done in by three characteristics: too much talking, too much eating, and too much sleeping.”

There is no doubt that excessive eating is not only a cause of many diseases but is also a major factor in stopping us from maximising our worship to Allah.

Ash-Shafi’I said: I have not filled myself in sixteen years because filling oneself makes the body heavy, removes clear understanding, induces sleep and makes one weak for worship.

Many of us fast during Ramadan fast during the day and after Iftaar make up for all the food we missed throughout the day by binge

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eating.

Surely this goes against the very purpose of Ramadan which is to be moderate in eating and to remember those who have less than us. How will we remember the unfortunate when we constantly over eating before and after our fasts?

By controlling what we eat now we will not only benefit our health in the short and long term but moderate eating will make us less heavier and enable us to maximise the amount of worship we do everyday during Ramadan and the rest of our lives.

Al-Hassan Al-Basri: “The test of Adam (AS) was food and it is your test until Qiyamah.

And, it used to be said: Whoever takes control of his stomach gets control of all good deeds.

And: Wisdom does not reside in a full stomach.

One day, Al-Hassan offered some food to his companion who said: I have eaten until I am no longer able to eat.

To which Al-Hassan said: Subhaana Allah! Does a Muslim eat until he is no longer able to eat?

10. Implementing Sunnah's into Daily life Following the Sunnah is a command from Allah: "Say (O Muhammad to mankind): "If you (really) love Allah, then follow me (i.e. accept Islamic monotheism, follow the

Quran and the Sunnah), Allah will love you and forgive you your sins. And Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful." (Quran: 3:31) Surely if we follow the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) in every aspect of our lives then everything that we do will become a worship to Allah, even going to the toilet, having a bath, dressing and undressing etc Reviving the Sunnah into our daily lives: Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “Whoever revives an aspect of my Sunnah that is forgotten after my death, he will have a reward equivalent to that of the people who follow him, without it detracting in the least from their reward.”

(Tirmidhi) The best habit we can ever have in our lives is to implement the Sunnah into EVERY aspect of our lives so that our whole life and everything we do during it can become a worship to Allah.

We can do this by gradually learning all of the Sunnah's and dua's of every aspect of our day waking up, leaving and entering the Masjid and house, dressing and undressing etc. So let us get into the habit right now of implementing every Sunnah's into our daily lives so by the time Ramadan comes we can continue to implement Sunnah's and gain even more rewards for them.

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Momentum and Attraction

By Shri Shri Anandamurtijii | 1971 DMC Wherever there is movement or progress, there is either momentum (saḿveda) or attraction or both.

When people advance that which propels them from behind is known as momentum, and that which pulls them from in front is known as attraction. Momentum and attraction can be physical, psychic, and also spiritual. For instance, if I push something from behind, that object moves forward. Again, if I forcibly pull it from the front, it also moves forward. This is called mundane or physical momentum or physical attraction.

Similarly, we can propel or attract an object forward through psychic force. Even if the body is pushed, the mind may not move. Often the body wants to work but the mind is too weak. Conversely, sometimes the mind wants to work but the body is physically tired; yet the mind goads the body into action by sheer force of habit. Thus, momentum and attraction function equally in the physical, psychic and spiritual worlds.

There are various types of movement in the world, and behind all of them these forces of attraction and momentum are operating.

Physical momentum or physical attraction, however, is, extremely short-lived, especially if it is not supported by psychic or spiritual force. The momentum and attraction of the psychic realm is comparatively long-lasting, and the momentum and attraction of the spiritual realm is everlasting.

When people’s actions are supported by their physical energy and actional faculty but not by their spiritual energy, they become easily tired in the process of work. But when they plunge into activity with cent percent of their energy and move forward with a clear plan of action, fixing a high ideal before them, all their actions become successful, and their lives are fulfilled. This is called devotion.

There cannot be devotion in every physical action because the existence of devotion is dependent on the Absolute Entity, Parama Puruśa. When people are engaged in intellectual activities, their work is bound to be temporary; likewise, when they perform action simply for the sake of action, this too is only temporary. But when there is both knowledge and action, and both are fused into one, the result is devotion.

Devotion itself has an attraction

which is permanent in effect, and this is called inspiration.

The goal of human life is to realize the Absolute Entity, without which human actions can never be permanent. When human beings seek to do something lasting, or build something new, or promote human welfare, or establish something valuable to society, they must establish themselves in spiritual life.

Without devotion, without inspiration, they cannot achieve anything.

Spiritual inspiration and devotion arise in the human mind through sádhaná or selfless service. Many people may think, “How is it possible for devotion to arise without following the path of knowledge or action?” The arousal of devotion is but the reaction of one’s previous actions. Perhaps at some time in their previous lives people cultivated knowledge (jiṋána) and selfless service (karma), and as a result they have attained devotion without practising jiṋána and karma sádhaná in this life.

Many people cherish the idea that bhakti, devotion, has nothing to do with jiṋána and karma, but this sort of thinking is totally defective.

Devotion is never divorced from knowledge or action; rather, it is a synthesis of the two, it is their consummation. People may think they can achieve the Supreme Goal of life by practising práńáyáma in a closed room for twenty-four hours – they will certainly fail, for in them there is inertness, there is a lack of dynamism. Someone who continues the ritualistic incantation of mantras twenty-four hours a day cannot attain Iśtá , the Supreme Goal. Conversely, those who exclusively perform actions cannot attain the Goal either; they will simply become like machines – they will become slaves to action.

A machine is certainly dynamic and works extremely hard, but can that machine acquire knowledge and devotion?

Knowledge and devotion are just like the Gauṋgá and the Yamuna:(1) only when these two converge is the fulfilment of life attained. Thus, those in whom devotion has awakened will have to engage themselves in suitable action. In life one can never escape from the need for action. If they do not understand which action is beneficial for them, they should consult others; but they will have to work continuously. Since devotion has awakened in them and they

have been endowed with spiritual inspiration, they are sure to attain success in whatever action they undertake. Plunge into action and you will find that you will be able to do anything and everything. Never think that you cannot do a certain work; just commit yourself to doing that work and you will see that you will certainly be able to do it. When you start working for the welfare of society, society can never remain backward; it is bound to progress, and through the advancement of society you will also achieve success in your life.

The momentum or attraction of the psychic realm is much more powerful than that of the physical world, and the momentum or attraction of the spiritual world is still more powerful. When people hesitate and doubt whether they can accomplish something, and if they start to work in that hesitant frame of mind, they can never accomplish that task. But if they plunge into action thinking of their goal with courage, imbued with spiritual inspiration, they are sure to be crowned with success. No action is greater than the human capacity to perform it. Of all the manifold entities in this expressed world, human beings are the most powerful.

We determine the standard of human beings depending upon the degree of success or failure, or purity or impurity of their actions.

If the actions of human beings are successful and pure, we call those people great. Thus, before starting any work, wise people should think whether the action is righteous or not.

If it is, they should throw themselves into action then and there. They are destined to be victorious. When people decide to act, they generally do not bother to think whether their action is righteous or not; rather they merely think whether or not they can achieve success. The more they think this, the more a fear grips their mind that they will fail, and ultimately, they will never achieve success, whether the task is righteous or unrighteous.

They should rather think whether or not the action is righteous.

Whenever performing any action, you must analyse to what extent the action about to be undertaken will ensure physical, psychic, spiritual, social and economic progress, and you must also consider whether your action will truly bring welfare to the world. When you are certain that your actions are truly benevolent, you

must immediately throw yourselves into those actions. The inspiration behind your righteous intellect comes from Parama Puruśa, and thus it is He who will provide you with the requisite strength to accomplish the task. When your conscience dictates that the action to be performed is benevolent, you should realize that if the discriminating intellect behind your conscience is convincing you of the righteousness of your action, then that intellect will also surely provide you with the requisite courage to translate that idea into action. Thus when you are convinced that a certain action is good, then you should have no hesitation in your mind whatsoever. Such hesitation will be absolutely useless.

Átmánaḿ rathinaḿ viddhi shariiraḿ rathameva tu Buddhiḿ tu sárathiḿ viddhi inanah pragrahameva ca.

If the human body is compared to a chariot, then the passenger is the Átma, unit consciousness, the intellect is the charioteer, and the mind is the reins. When the intellect determines that a particular action is supported by conscience, then the intellect is sure to receive all kinds of assistance from Parama Paruśa. Thus I have said, and I repeat: never be hesitant or afraid to perform any righteous deed. The human body and mind which are just like machines, have to be fully utilized. If the machine is good but is left idle, it becomes rusty; likewise, if people are endowed with keen intellect, profound wisdom and enormous physical vigour, but do not utilize these assets, then their degradation is inevitable. But if people who have no remarkable intelligence, physical energy or financial resources but are endowed with an awakened conscience, plunge into action, they are sure to be victorious. They will become great in all respects, and others will be forced to accept their greatness. Only after achieving great deeds in society will they leave this world, and their advent will have been successful in all respects.

In this way it becomes easy to perform righteous deeds. What is important is to move towards Parama Puruśa, the only permanent Entity, along with one’s knowledge and action, which we collectively call devotion. Without the inspiration of devotion, nothing lasting can be achieved. Thus, conscientious people, whatever actions they may perform, must not deviate from

the Supreme Goal in life. Ours is a subjective approach with objective adjustment: our main purpose is to continue with our mundane activities while placing our minds at the feet of Parama Puruśa. You must accept Him as the ultimate Goal of your lives, and then move on. If impediments arise in your movement towards the Goal, they must be removed from the path; and those circumstances which are beneficial to your progress must be encouraged. In this way you will individually progress, and that individual progress will also advance the collective life.

Only a life thus inspired is the true life. Others may have human bodies, but the minds residing in those bodies are not truly human. You boys and girls have come onto this earth as human beings with human bodies and minds – you should never forget this.

Humanity is the criterion of judgment for truth in this universe. When human beings are established in the false glamour of humanity, then truth stands victorious. So, in the practical world, the greatest entities are human beings – they are the highest expressions of Parama Puruśa, the Supreme Consciousness. Only they have the capacity to understand the significance of the numerous forms, colours, smells, etc., in which Parama Puruśa is constantly metamorphosing His creation. The poet Chandidas sang, Shuńaha mánuś bhái, sabár upare mánuś satya, táhár upare nái [Look, O human beings, humanity is the highest truth – There is nothing above it.]

“Humanity is the highest truth.”

Whenever you perform any action, your humanity should never be devalued; whenever you undertake any action you should think whether or not it is truly human, whether or not it is truly righteous. The moment your judgement convinces you that this action is righteous, you should not waste a single moment; you should forthwith jump into action, and victory will be yours.

Footnotes (1) The Ganga and Yamuna are traditionally considered holy rivers in India. –Trans.

1971 DMC Published in: Ananda Marga Ideology and Way of Life in a Nutshell Part 11 [a compilation] Subháśita Saḿgraha Part 10 [unpublished in English]

SHRI RAM WAAPSI IN AYODHYA, INDIA Contd. from pg 20 What surprises a person like me, a third generation Fiji Hindu, is the extent of ignorance among Hindus about their culture and real Indian history, as many are not wrong in saying, Fiji Hindus really depict what many would wish Indians from India to be.

As an outsider, a non-Indian, one of the main reasons for this anomaly and deficiency appears to be the lackadaisical approach of nonHindu Nehru family, dominated by the culture of the invaders, towards Hinduism. I wonder if anybody else noticed that Gandhi and Nehru name failed to feature anywhere in the Ram Mandir celebrations?

Indians need to realize that after independence, Five successive Education Ministers in India with over 80% of Hindus, were nonHindus, as they shared the belief

of the invaders, and Indian School curriculum learnt more about Akbar and Aurangzeb and prowess of the foreign invaders rather than about peaceful, compassionate teachings of Hinduism, Ramayan, Bhagavat Gita, Dayanand, Tulsidas and numerous Hindu sages ignored by a very wanting Congress.

Even I was cursing my ancestors and elders for carrying and displaying hatred among brothers, and not showing the love of Ram and Bharat that displayed strong brotherly love between half -brothers in Ramayan.

Then I realised my grandfather came to Fiji from India which was still under the influence of the culture of the invaders between 1879 and 1916 when most came to Fiji. Thank God they brought Ramayan, Bhagavat Gita and other scriptures that made us Fiji Hindus a better breed of people who have

30 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024

good and well-rounded knowledge of their religion and culture and a school-system that was not adulterated by the culture and belief of the invaders.

I earnestly hope Hindus in the Diaspora, reading this may realise what India missed in the over 70 years of Independence, and what it has to retrieve, reclaim and reconnect to Indians, 1.4 million in India and some 20 million in the Diaspora. And they appreciate the history of Ayodhya, and Raam aayenge, not after 14 years of exile, but after 500 years of being desecrated by the invaders.

Modi and his government have also sprung some energy and inspiration to Bollywood that has been inspired, encouraged and boldened to tell perhaps what it felt restricted under the Congress rule.

The first one such is about the unexplained and mysterious death

of PM Lal Bahadur Shastri in Russia in TASKENT FILES which reveals the congress may have had a hand in killing of truthful and “straight” PM Shastri of Congress to continue a questionable and reportedly corrupt India with dynastic Nehru rule under Indira Gandhi.

Then came the brilliant KASHMIR FILES that told the brutal story of Kashmir terrorism and went to make some law changes to better the life of Indians in Kashmir.

Of course, URI, THE SURGICAL STRIKE depicts the story that PM Modi told about in a speech on Indian TV on ...”gharmein ghuss kar maara..” (Went into your home to hit you.). This movie is about a fictionally dramatized account of the true event of the retaliation to the 2016 Uri attack, 12th FAIL -And the latest one depicting the story of a common truthful Pundit family, Manoj Kumar

Sharma, and his father, who fought for truthfulness, non-cheating and the right things depicted in Ram Rajya, the real culture of Hindus. This is 12TH FAIL, which will win many awards and win so many hearts and depicts the culture that India needs and is home-grown, and not that copied from the invaders. Thanks Vidhu Vinod Chopra for that.

Let’s hope with Ram Rajya, next step would be reclaiming and retrieving Mathura from the ruins of the invaders.

And the final message to the fighting Hindus, Sanatani in their mandalis and associations in Brisbane, Auckland and elsewhere is, to learn the gist of message coming from the message of RAM WAAPSI. HINDUS NEED TO BE UNITED AND NEVER AGAIN ALLOW ANY INVADERS, IN ANY FORM, TO INFLUENCE, DESECRATE OUR

RELIGION AND CULTURE. [NZ does not even have one representative united Hindu body here. When will we Hindus have some Gyan (knowledge) Pratishtha after Pran Pratishtha.]

I conclude that the Tsunami of Ram Rajya in India with Shri Ram Mandir is an opportune time and a forerunner to India to be renamed as BHARAT and declared a HINDU State.

And united Hindus in India should never allow any further invaders or their cultural influence to spoil Ram Rajya in India.

JAI SHREE RAM [About the Author: Thakur Ranjit Singh is a Third generation Fiji Indian Hindu, a journalist, a media commentator and blogger at FIJI PUDIT, based in Auckland, New Zealand] E: thakurjifj@gmail.com

Ramayana Sampurna Maha Yug and Bhandara at Gayatri Mandir Boondall BOONDALL, The Tuesday Ramayana Group of Gayatri Mandir Boondall completed the Ramayana recital for the fifth time since they began the Tuesday Night Ramayan recitals. A unique Maha Yug and Bhandara is traditionally organised when the last verses are read.

On Tuesday, the ninth of January, this religious ritual was completed; it was a wonderful gathering of prominent Brisbanebased Hindu Priests, past Presidents, and community members. The event began with a special pooja By Umesh and Usha Chandra (Bhandara sponsors), followed by a special pooja

by Anit Ram – president of the Hindu Society of Queensland; pundit Sanat Pandey ji officiated both prayers.

After the poojas, the Tuesday Ramayana group as per usual, recited Hanuman Chalisa, after which Siva Sri Gangadhara Gurrukal of Brisbane Shree Durga Temple honoured all attending Priests with Chandan, Tilak and shawl of honour. Pundit Sanat Pandey ji conducted the special Hawan, and all priests took part in the Hawan; this was a historic

moment. After the Purna Ahothi (conclusion) of Hawan, Tuesday Ramayan Group recited the last verses of Ramamayna. Pracharak Shree Alpesh Parmar Ji has been the main “Vyash” narrator of Ramayan since the passing away of Master Jhinku Prasad Ji. The group is privileged to have Shree Alpesh Parmar ji as the Pracharak; he is wellversed in Ramayana and other Hindu scriptures and has an excellent command of Hindi.

Following Ramayana,

all past presidents in attendance and otherwise were acknowledged by Mrs Usha Chandra. President Anit Ram spoke on the occasion and thanked the Tuesday Ramayana group for their ongoing commitment since inception.

The second speaker was Pundit Sanat Pandey ji, who also congratulated the Tuesday Ramayana Group and mentioned that it was Umesh and Usha Chandra's wedding anniversary.

Umesh Chandra

Delivered a vote of thanks and remembered the Late Madhavan Krishnan and Master Jhinku Prasad; he specially thanked the key members of Tuesday's Ramayan Group – Deo Chand, Nagendra Prasad, Anita Singh, Rajendra Prasad, Raman Nair, Dipak, Alpesh Parmar, Madhu and Rakesh, Nirmala Krishnan.

After the aarathi and Shanti path, Mahaprasad (dinner) was served in the dining area. Overall, it is a very spiritually uplifting program.

Kavita ji

Call: (07) 3192 5188

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024 — 31

Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir celebrates its eighth Staphna Diwas and seventh Anniversary North McLean, Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir celebrated its eighth Staphna Diwas (formation) day and seventh anniversary on 21st January 2024.

Many devotees and elected representatives attended the annual event on the same day despite other functions in Brisbane.

The program began with bhajans by the local musical group (Mandli) Before the official proceedings, the spiritual and religious aspects took place, including floral tributes, Ishtuthi, offering intergenerational jewellery and Bhajan by Guruma Pujniye Pundita Asha Tripathi ji. The Official proceedings began with a traditional welcome to the country by Indigenous Leader and Elder Aunty Bettey McGrady.

Umesh Chandra OAM, as MC, welcomed everyone and acknowledged all the invited VIP guests, who received the blessing and shawl of honour from His Holiness Dharam Guru Pandith Tripathi Ji. Usha Chandra read out the special message from the

Queensland premier.

Christine Castley, CEO of Multicultural Australia, was the first speaker as guest of honour. She delivered a well-articulated speech on the occasion. Cr Jon Raven from Division Five

of Logan City Council was the next speaker. Councillor Angela Owen, representing Brisbane's Lord Mayor, spoke next.

Devika Maharaj recognised the sponsors and donors for the event;

86 Scott Lane, North Maclean /www.shreevishnumayamandir.com.au. 04812 38360

she also delivered a vote of thanks. Concluding remarks were made by His Holiness Dharam Guru Pandith Tripathi Ji, following which the resident Mandali sang the arathi and Bhog.

The event concluded with bhajans and Dinner for everyone. VIP guests were first invited to the dining area; it was a very successful event with everyone's support.

MESSAGE FROM THE PREMIER OF QUEENSLAND

Ma Saraswati Poojan

Start placing your books at the lotus feet of Ma Saraswati

From Wednesday, 14th February 2024.

Sunday, 18th February 2024 – Main Celebration.

Sunday 18th Program: 5:00pm onwards Bhajans, Kirtans, Prawachan.

Return of your blessed books and Gift Packs issued.

The evening will end with Aarti, Bhog and Dinner You may bring your books along on 18th February to be Blessed.

Maha Prasad (dinner) will be provided on Sunday.

Food Sponsor $400.00 or any donation will be appreciated. Please contact: Dhiru Desai 04062 13153, Ranil Dayal: 04031 46575, Rajesh Gopal 04223 44046, Bharat: Solanki 04111 31485 Devika Maharaj 04248 91159 or The Temple 5548 6814

For online donation facility visit: www.shreevishnumayamandir.com.au

32 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024

On behalf of the Queensland Government, I congratulate the Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir Temple in North MacLean for the Grand Celebration of the 8th Sthapana Diwas in 2024.

Officially opened in a grand pooja ceremony in 2017, the Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir Temple holds a special place in Logan’s Indian community, including as host of special Hindu festivals throughout the year.

The 8th Sthapana Diwas is a yearly highlight and will be one of the biggest celebrations for 2024. The event is set to attract a large number of people and will showcase Indian food, religious songs and hymns and will culminate in a significant community dinner.

Along with our Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples, Queenslanders speak hundreds of different languages, identify with a diverse range of religious beliefs and traditions, and come from many different countries and territories.

One of many cultures represented in our State are Queenslanders of Indian ancestry. As proud Australians, members of the Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir make a valuable contribution to our State’s rich multicultural tapestry through their range of social, religious and cultural activities.

This year the Queensland Government is investing more than $15 million to continue promoting our State as a unified, harmonious and inclusive community.

Thank you to the Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir community for doing your part to foster diversity and to help create a society where Queenslanders of all backgrounds feel valued, respected and a sense of belonging.

STEVEN MILES MP PREMIER OF QUEENSLAND

Shri BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Temple celebrates the inauguration of the Shri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya

KINGSTON, Shri BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Temple, hosted a joyous celebration on Sunday, January 21st, marking the inauguration of the Shri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.

The event welcomed

esteemed guests, including Dr Ashutosh Mishra, CEO of IAIE; Abhishek Sharma from Bhartiya Samaj; Dr Ram Mohan from Australia India News; Sureshbhai Limbani and the team from HSS, Shree

Hari and Team from VHP, Pandit Piyushbhai Shastri and various organisation leaders.

The festivities featured special prayers, cultural activities, and a vibrant parade (Akshat Kumbh

Palkhi ) with Shri Ram, Sitaji, and Hanumanji statues. Pujya Arshpurush Swami ji emphasised the importance of unity and mutual respect from the Tulsi Ramayana.

The event showcased

the teachings of Shri Ramachandra Bhagwan, promoting happiness and collaboration. More than 800 attendees felt a sense of community, reflecting the spirit of Sanatan Hindu Dharma.

The celebration honoured the historic occasion and demonstrated the BAPS’s commitment to fostering togetherness and joy among the people of Brisbane who believe in these timeless teachings.

Shakti Global, launched in Helensvale, will deliver Holistic health programs

On January 28, 2023, the launch of Shakti Global, a not-for-profit organisation based on the Gold Coast, took place at the Helensvale Cultural Centre, attracting over 200 guests.

The distinguished chief guests included Swami Atmeshananda, Councillor William Owen Jones, MP Sam O'Connor, Mr Umesh Chandra OAM (Founder President of GOPIO Qld, Executive Vice President of GOPIO International, Founder member and board of trustee of the QLD multicultural council, Chairman and CEO of Chantex Pty Ltd), and Mrs Usha Chandra, Magistrate Veena Goverdhan. The event was marked by numerous supporters and sponsors who contributed to its success.

The launch commenced Call: (07) 3192 5188

with prayers and a ceremonial lamp lighting by the esteemed dignitaries, symbolising the illuminating start of the NGO's journey.

Following this, a heartfelt dance performance was presented as an offering to the Almighty, reflecting the spiritual essence of the occasion. The event also featured a captivating drama

performed by children, portraying meaningful narratives.

The entire program spanned approximately two hours, filled with meaningful activities and expressions of support. After the engaging presentations, attendees were treated to a delectable lunch, fostering community and celebration.

The event's conclusion involved expressions of gratitude, thanking all participants, sponsors, and supporters for their valuable contributions to the noble cause undertaken by the NGO. Shakti Global, a nonprofit organisation deeply rooted in the principles of Sanatana Dharma, is

www.indiantimes.com.au

dedicated to fostering holistic health. We invite you to participate in our enriching workshops and sessions featuring esteemed international guest speakers designed to educate and empower individuals on various aspects of health and spirituality.

To register for these transformative experiences,

kindly visit our website at www.shaktiglobal.org.

Explore the diverse range of workshops crafted to enhance your well-being and spiritual growth.

By participating in our programs, you join a community committed to holistic health, guided by the wisdom of Sanatana Dharma.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024 — 33

'India to be the front runner of world's transformation': French President Macron French President Emmanuel Macron shared a video on X on Sunday, highlighting the 75th Republic Day celebrations where he was the chief guest.

French President Emmanuel Macron shared a video on X on Sunday on his recent trip to India for Republic Day celebrations.

He emphasised India's role in global transformation, saying “India will be at the forefront.”

Macron also underscored France's interest in increasing investments in India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi with French President Emmanuel Macron on Republic Day in New Delhi.

(PTI Photo) (File) Prime Minister Narendra Modi with French President

Emmanuel Macron on Republic Day in New Delhi.

(PTI Photo) (File) The video, captioned, "A look back at an exceptional trip in India" shared by Macron, is a compilation of his visit during this year's 75th Republic Day celebrations, where he served as the chief guest. It features his trip to Jaipur, relishing local cuisine and art hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The video also highlights discussions on the bilateral relations between India and France.

“We have got everything to say to a country like India, a democratic power, a demographic, economic and a technological as well, which is going to be front row at

the world's transformation,” President Macron said in the video.

Macron's visit to India Invited by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the French President visited India and served as the chief guest during the 75th Republic Day celebrations on January 26.

"We were extremely honoured to be part of such an important and unique day. This is in our memories forever," Macron said.

Highlighting the strong bilateral ties, the French President said that despite the existing positive relationship between the two nations, there

is still significant potential for further collaboration and progress.

"We developed during the past few years a series of cooperations and partnerships in different sectors with your country.

And clearly, we want to make more and more investments.

Even if the relationship is very good, we can do much more. Everything's good so far," the video stated.

Macron recounted his trip to Jaipur, highlighting the symbolic moments of historical importance shared with Prime Minister Modi.

Their discussions in Jaipur covered bilateral relations and global concerns, with both leaders expressing “serious concerns” about potential

escalation in the Middle East conflict, including the Red Sea region.

In a joint statement released on the night of January 26, both leaders stressed the importance of preserving freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and underscored the necessity of adhering to international maritime laws.

PM Modi and President Emmanuel Macron additionally reiterated their shared vision for the IndiaFrance Strategic Partnership, viewing it as instrumental in fostering economic prosperity and resilience, enhancing national security, and contributing to a sustainable and healthier future for the planet.

Gujarat Police detain cleric Salman Azhari Jharkhand floor test: JMM coalition set in hate speech case, supporters protest to sail through with 48 MLAs vs NDA's 29 Security has been tightened outside Mumbai's Ghatkopar police station, where the Islamic preacher has been kept.

Gujarat Police on Sunday detained Mumbai-based Islamic preacher Mufti Salman Azhari, days after he delivered an alleged hate speech in Gujarat’s Junagadh, prompting the state police to file an FIR against the cleric, and two others.

Azhari has been kept at Mumbai’s Ghatkopar police station and hundreds of his supporters have gathered outside. Security has been strengthened in the area to maintain law and order.

Speaking to news agency ANI, his lawyer said that though the preacher is ready to cooperate in the probe, there is no reply from the police in this regard.

Earlier in the day, a series of posts were made from his X handle, stating that he was detained at 11:56 am by

Gujarat ATS, Mumbai ATS, and policemen from Chirag Nagar police station.

“25-30 policemen surrounded Mufti Salman’s society and detained them (him) from his residence,” one of the posts said.

What is the case?

The cleric gave the alleged inflammatory speech on the night of January 31, at an event near the ‘B’ division police station in Junagadh.

After the video went viral, the police booked him, and

local organisers Mohammad Yousuf Malek and Azim Habib Odedara, under Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 153B (promoting enmity between different religious groups) and 505(2) (making statements conducive to public mischief).

The two local organisers have already been arrested.

As per the police, the duo sought permission for the event saying that Azhari’s address would be on religion, and to spread awareness regarding de-addiction.

JMM MLAs leave, Bihar MLAs arrive: Why Hyderabad has become the hub ahead of floor tests After Jharkhand MLAs left Hyderabad, Bihar Congress MLAs reached Telangana capital on Sunday ahead of Bihar floor test on February 12.

As Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) coalition MLAs left Hyderabad on Sunday after spending the weekend here safe from any poaching attempts, Bihar Congress MLAs arrived in the city for the same reason.

The floor test for the new government in Bihar will be on February 12.

The Congress is no longer an ally in the new government

as chief minister Nitish Kumar has switched over to the NDA. Still, the Congress wants to keep its flock together and hence shifted the MLAs to Hyderabad. Officially, though, it was said that the MLAs came to Hyderabad to meet Telangana chief minister Revanth Reddy. News agencies claimed that MLAs will stay in Hyderabad till February 11.

Hyderabad becomes hub ahead of Bihar floor test: Here are 10 things to know 1. Jharkhand Mukti Morcha coalition MLAs were stowed away in Hyderabad hours after Champai Soren took oath

34 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024

as the new chief minister of the state following Hemant Soren's arrest.

2.

Telangana minister and Telangana Congress incharge were on duty to escort the MLAs from the airport to Leonia resort where they spent the weekend.

3. The Jharkhand MLAs were sequestered from everything. The entry and exit of the wing they were staying was heavily secured by 24X7 police posting. They had separate dining arrangements during their stay so that other guests of the resort too did not get any access to them.

All eyes are on the floor test in the Jharkhand assembly, scheduled to begin at 11am on Monday.

With the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha-led coalition MLAs making their way back to Ranchi from Hyderabad, all eyes are now on the floor test in the Jharkhand assembly, scheduled to begin at 11am on Monday.

Champai Soren who took the oath as the chief minister following Hemant Soren's arrest will prove his majority in the Assembly. Former chief minister Hemant Soren will walk out of the jail to take part in the voting process.

1. Jharkhand Assembly has 81 seats and the majority mark is 41. JMM-coalition has a comfortable majority with 48 MLAs -- JMM 29, Congress 17, RJD and CPI(ML) one each. However, not all MLAs may participate in the floor test. The NDA has 29 MLAs including BJP's 26 seats, AJSU 3. Rest 3 are Independents and others.

2. When Hemant Soren was arrested on January 31 by the ED in an alleged land scam, Champai Soren went to the governor claiming the support of 43 MLAs. Some MLAs did not sign the support letter, but they are with the coalition, the JMM said.

3. The coalition MLAs were flown to Hyderabad to

foil any attempt of the BJP to poach them. They spent the weekend at Leonia Resort under heavy security where they were not accessible by any outsider and other guests of the resort.

4. Congress, the junior partner in the coalition government, bore the expenditure of the MLAs' resort stay.

5. When Champai Soren meets Hemant Soren on Monday on the floors of the Assembly, the issue of inducting at least one MLA from Hemant's family to the cabinet will be discussed.

Hemant Soren's brother Basant Soren is likely to become a minister.

6. In 2022, Hemant Soren as the chief minister faced a trust vote in the assembly and won it with the votes of 48 MLAs. 7. While all is well in the JMM coalition, one

dissenting voice is Lobin Hembrom, a senior JMM leader and a critic of Hemant Soren. Lobin said there was no need to shift the MLAs to such a lavish resort at a time when Jharkhand's majority of people struggle to make both ends meet.

8. The JMM leadership, however, said Hembrom will vote in favour of the coalition government in the floor test.

9. While Hemant Soren will take part in the floor test, the Jharkhand high court is scheduled to hear Hemant Soren's petition against the ED arrest. The Supreme Court did not hear the matter and asked Hemant to approach the high court.

10. ED has arrested Jharkhand tax department official Bhanu Pratap in connection with Hemant Soren. Bhanu Pratap was already in jail in another land scam.

4. As the group of Jharkhand MLAs left Hyderabad, a day ahead of the floor test, a group of Bihar MLAs reached Hyderabad, 5. The Bihar Congress MLAs were taken to Siri Nature's Valley Resort in Kagazghat in Rangareddy.

6. While the massive win in the Assembly election in Telangana makes capital Hyderabad a stronghold for the Congress, the resort politics has triggered a

political debate.

7. Telangana BJP leader Rachana Reddy said Telangana's resources and money are being spent to protect Congress MLAs. 8.

Congress leaders meanwhile clarified that the resort stays are being financed by the party. The Congress paid for the stay of the JMMalliance MLAs at Leonia resort.

9. Bihar BJP leaders said the NDA in Bihar won't need numbers to win the floor

test but if some Congress MLAs switch, it will lead to a demoralisation of the opposition.

10. Three Bihar Congress MLAs -- Manohar Prasad, Manihari Assembly Constituency, Siddharth Saurav, Bikram (Patna) Assembly and Abidur Rahman, Araria District Assembly -- did not go to Hyderabad. Siddharth Saurav said he has some work in his constituency.

Empowering Dreams, Basava Samiti's Learn2Grow Program Unveils Success

By Mr. Sooraj Chirangara Basava Samiti's Learn2Grow Program Unveils Success Stories on 16 March 2024 @Brisbane Square Library Embarking on a revolutionary journey across the enchanting landscapes of Australia and New Zealand, Basava Samiti's Learn2Grow Program is not just a program; it's a vibrant movement orchestrated by a dedicated cadre of volunteers. This pulsating initiative is not merely redefining education and community engagement; it's creating ripples of change that echo across the vast expanse of Oceania. The imminent Data visualisation project presentation in Brisbane on March 16 adds another layer to this movement. It transcends the mere classification of an event, becoming a jubilant celebration of realised dreams, finely honed skills and lives undergoing a profound transformation.

In the hallowed halls of the Brisbane Square Library, the community is invited to witness the tangible impact of Learn2Grow, serving as a

testament to the program's unwavering commitment to empowerment and positive change, resonating far beyond the venue's confines.

With a bold mission to break down barriers, Learn2Grow is not just making waves; it's causing a tidal shift in the traditional education paradigms. Operated entirely by a passionate team of volunteers, this program is a beacon of inclusivity, inviting individuals with a thirst for knowledge but shackled by financial constraints to join the transformative journey.

This isn't just about providing education; it's about fostering a nurturing environment where innovative ideas germinate, step up to solve community challenges and guide the community while imparting values of courage, honesty, and integrity, as per Guru Basava’s vachana.

Learn2Grow is a testament to the fact that education is not confined to the four walls of a classroom; it's an immersive experience that transcends boundaries, unlocking the full potential of every eager learner.

Some of the values highlighted through this Learn2Grow Program are mentioned below:

Dāsōha (ದಾಸ�ೋ�ಹಾ) is a concept introduced by Guru Basava, wherein the experts impart their knowledge to train and uplift the learners with kindness and gratitude.

The learners apply Kāyakavē kailāsa (ಕಾಯಕವ�ೇ ಕ�ೈಲಾಸ) – the concept of experiencing heaven through the adoption of Dāsōha while solving community problems using hi-tech platform offered by the Charity. In its relatively short existence of just 18 months, Learn2Grow has emerged not merely as an educational platform but as a transformative journey for those enthusiastic about learning yet hindered by financial constraints. Driven by a philosophy of handson learning, the program actively motivates volunteers to immerse themselves in certified training across a spectrum of technologies, including Microsoft, Google Analytics, Tableau, Graphics Design, and more. The essence goes beyond the mere acquisition of skills; it extends to the delivery of projects that actively contribute to initiatives on a community-wide scale.

Learn2Grow not only imparts knowledge but also empowers individuals to

translate that knowledge into tangible, impactful outcomes for the betterment of their communities.

As a progressive and forward-looking initiative, Learn2Grow deeply understands the pivotal role of open data projects in effectively addressing community issues.

By harnessing the formidable power of data transparency, the program strategically targets realworld challenges confronted by communities.

The integration of open data initiatives has become intrinsic to the program's fabric, serving as a catalyst that equips volunteers with invaluable skills and empowers them to actively contribute towards resolving pressing local issues. In essence, Learn2Grow recognises that the pathway to community improvement is paved with the insights and solutions derived from open data initiatives.

Please register to attend this launch by emailing contactus@ basavasamitiapac.org to understand and witness the outputs of data visualisation using Office of Fair-Trading complaints

EMPOWERING DREAMS OPEN DATA SHOWCASE

16 MARCH 2024 15:00 BRISBANE SQUARE LIBRARY You're invited to a dazzling project showcase where open data takes center stage in tackling social and community issues.

But this event is more than just technology – it's a celebration of vibrant communities.

Witness firsthand how we're igniting STEM skills in students, empowering them as problem-solvers for the greater good. Immerse yourself in groundbreaking research analytics presentations that redefine possibilities, all guided by the essential values steering society towards progress.

Join us on this journey of innovation and community impact!

and their relationships and the accident frequency and its correlation to other parameters in South

East Queensland on the 16th March based on the Department of Transport and Main Roads.

The Sangam Association of Queensland revives the community engagement Maathar Sangam group successfully held a meetand-greet event on 19 November 2023.

The group are on Facebook.

Women and girls in the community are encouraged to join the group. The group meets periodically and holds cultural, educational, and social activities.

A very successful seniors' gathering was organised on 8 December 2023. It was a lunch gathering with lots of food, fun, activities, kava and talanoa! Due to its success, it is planned to hold such gatherings of seniors regularly.

Relocation of the temple project, -The MC has received quotes from several real estate agents on the value of the current premises. It is estimated between $600000 to $700000. The MC has asked the real-estate agents for potential land areas where the temple could be relocated.

As agreed at the last AGM, once these quotes have been received, the MC, in discussion with the Temple Relocation Committee (made up of ordinary members and MC representatives), will call an SGM to seek the decision of the members.

Call: (07) 3192 5188

An annual pooja is planned to be held over 2-3 days. It would be held either in May or September. The venue would most likely be the Oxley Show Grounds.

Other than walking on fire, the community can have all other activities, including Tirukuttu, food stalls, playing our traditional instruments, and offering prayers.

As part of the efforts to have a greater engagement of the community members in the association, the MC plans to organise meetings with our community members in groups.

This is to establish groups representing the South, East, West and North sides of Brisbane. The groups

will have a representative chosen who could become ad hoc members of the MC. This would allow the flow of information between the community and the MC and vice versa. Moreover, the different groups can take turns and look after the temple premises.

The current Management Committee is made up of Reena Naidu, Treasurer: 0407589769; Shiri Raju: Secretary: 0452001662, Raghwan: President:0432219454 Saroja Chandra:0432035202 Ashok Gounder, Vice President:0402378853 Ashwin Permal:0455662700, Neelam Naidu:0423488872 and Aman Kumar: 0431200108 www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024 — 35

FOCUS ON FIJI US House panel recommends $17.6 billion in military aid for Israel WASHINGTON (Reuters) – Legislation providing $17.6 billion in new military assistance to Israel as it wages war against Hamas was unveiled on Saturday in the U.S. House of Representatives.

The funding bill, offered by a House Appropriations panel, could come to a vote in the full House sometime next week, Speaker Mike Johnson said in a letter to members.

The Republicancontrolled House had previously approved $14.3 billion in new military aid to Israel, but with the requirement that it be paid for by clawing back a chunk

of money already targeted for the U.S. Internal Revenue Service.

The Democraticcontrolled Senate balked at that provision and is expected to unveil a legislative package that would aid Israel as well as provide more military assistance for Ukraine in its war against Russia.

That same Senate bill is also expected to contain proposals for strengthening security along the southern U.S. border with Mexico.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has taken steps to start debate on that multipronged bill next week, with a first procedural vote

PM Rabuka holds talanoa with Fiji’s diaspora in Europe

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka met with the Fiji community residing in Europe this week.

They travelled from as far as Paris, the Netherlands and Geneva to meet with the Prime Minister.

The PM took the opportunity to provide an update on the latest development plans and ongoing progress of the People’s Coalition Government.

Mr Rabuka expressed the nation’s gratitude for the generous assistance that continue to flow from the diaspora which contributes to the prosperity and development of their homeland.

He acknowledged the valuable role they play in supporting Fiji’s growth and development from afar.

Mr Rabuka recognised that this is made possible by their hard work, success and prosperity in their adopted homes over the seas.

The Prime Minister, at the same time, encouraged the

diaspora to stay connected with their loved ones back home, emphasising the importance of maintaining strong ties with family and friends.

He also reiterated that Fiji was open for business and encouraged them to consider investing back home and that the Government is eager to facilitate their investment in Fiji.

He also emphasised that the children, and descendants of former Fiji citizens are now entitled to enter and reside in Fiji without permit with changes to the Immigration laws in 2023 by the People’s Coalition.

After the traditional formalities, a town-hall style talanoa session was held where the Fijian community directly engaged with Mr Rabuka, facilitating the open exchange of ideas and perspectives.

The talanoa centered on partnerships to further enhance the relationship between Fiji and its diaspora in Europe.

no later than Wednesday.

According to the House Appropriations Committee, the $17.6 billion would include funds to help

become a fully bikeable city.

Sunday’s referendum, which comes less than a year after city residents voted last year to ban e-scooters, aims to triple the parking fees for cars of 1.6 tonnes and more to

36 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024

accompanied by strong new U.S. border controls at a time when record numbers of immigrants are trying to enter the United States.

While the Senate plans to do just that, Johnson already has said the border security package to be unveiled in the Senate is insufficient.

Before new military aid to Israel or Ukraine can be delivered, the House and Senate must pass the same bill before sending it to President Joe Biden, a Democrat, for signing into law.

The Senate also wants to include aid to Taiwan as part of its legislation.

Music from Africa rising on global charts, with help from TikTok LOS ANGELES (Reuters) – When the biggest names in music gather on Sunday for the industry’s top honors at the Grammy Awards, they will hand out a new trophy for best African music performance.

The prize reflects the growing popularity of Afrobeats, and other music from the continent, which is gaining a global audience with help from social media platforms such as short-form video app TikTok. Afrobeats originated in West Africa, primarily Ghana and Nigeria, though the term is often used as a catch-all for various music styles coming from Africa. It features percussion rhythms mixed with various genres from rap to jazz, R&B and others.

Modern Afrobeats “has a feel-good groove to it,” said Heran Mamo, R&B and hiphop reporter at Billboard magazine, which created a U.S. Afrobeats chart in 2022. “It’s bound to reach a wider audience because it already contains a little bit of everything for everyone.”

On Spotify, Afrobeats music was streamed 13.5 billion times in 2022, up from 2 billion in 2017.

In another milestone, Nigerian singer Burna Boy became the first African artist to sell out a U.S. stadium when he played New York’s Citi Field last summer.

Bike-friendly Paris votes on raising parking fees for SUVs ARIS (Reuters) – Paris holds a referendum on Sunday asking Parisians whether the city should impose a parking surcharge on large SUVs, as the French capital pushes on with its multi-year plan to

replenish Israel’s missile defense systems, procure additional advanced weapons systems, and produce artillery and other

munitions.

Some of the funding would also be used to replenish U.S. arms provided to Israel following the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel.

“The need to support our closest ally and our own forces in the region has never been more pressing,” Johnson said in his letter to colleagues.

It was unclear whether far-right House members might balk at the funding for Israel without an equal amount of savings elsewhere in the budget.

House Republicans have insisted that any new aid to Ukraine be

18 euros ($19.4) per hour, to discourage “bulky, polluting” cars, City Hall said.

The new tariff would also apply to electric cars of 2 tonnes and more.

“Heavier, more dangerous,

Musicians in the running for the new Grammy on Sunday include Tyla, a 22-year-old South African singer. She hit the top 10 on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart with the danceable “Water,” an example of a genre known as amapiano, a jazz- and pianoinfused sound.

A TikTok executive in South Africa had noticed Tyla gaining attention in her local market back in 2020, and reached out to her with tips on how to maximize her presence on the app.

“Water” was released in July 2023, after Tyla signed with Sony Music Entertainment’s Epic Records.

By September, TikTok users were replicating Tyla’s dance moves in the #WaterChallenge. To date, 1.5 million videos have been created using the song, and the #WaterChallenge hashtag

has been viewed 1.8 billion times, according to TikTok. “I think that TikTok has played the role of incubator, but also the distributor to the billion-plus global users and it’s just really landed,” said Ole Obermann, global head of music at TikTok. Tyla’s success illustrates the power of TikTok and YouTube to help artists find fan bases around the world, a role once reserved for music labels.

“The proliferation of streaming along with new social media platforms (e.g.

TikTok) has accelerated artist discovery, and have provided new mediums for artists to grow their fan bases globally,” Bank of America Securities analyst Jessica Reif Cohen said in a research note predicting media trends for 2024.

TikTok remains controversial in the United States because of its ownership by Chinese company ByteDance, which critics view as a security risk.

The Biden administration has banned the app on U.S. government devices. TikTok officials say they have rigorous safeguards in place and they reject allegations of spying on user data.

The app also is in a dispute with Universal Music Group over how much it pays for use of songs from Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish and others.

Music from many Universal

artists was unavailable on TikTok as of Friday.

For U.S. teenagers, TikTok ranks as the second-most common music discovery source behind YouTube, according to a recent MIDiA Research survey that showed 45% of 16- to 19-year-olds found new music through the platform.

Other Afrobeats artists who found audiences on TikTok include Nigerian rapper Rema. He collaborated with Selena Gomez for a remix of his song “Calm Down,” which hit No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 last June.

TikTok is helping to forge new connections between U.S. and African artists.

Obermann said he played a short clip of a song called “Ojapiano” from Nigerian musician KCee for Ryan Tedder, a songwriter and lead singer for the band OneRepublic.

Tedder liked the sound so much that he immediately reached out to KCee, who jumped on a plane from Lagos to Los Angeles two days later so the pair could make a remix of the song.

Obermann hopes the soon-to-be-released remix will give new life to “Ojapiano,” a combination of amapiano and a Nigerian flute called Oja, and keep fueling the Afrobeats craze.

“This is going to be a big, growing genre,” Obermann said.

more polluting… SUVs are an environmental disaster,” Emmanuel Gregoire, the deputy mayor of Paris said on X. Under Socialist Mayor Anne Hidalgo, the streets of Paris have been transformed, with 84 km of cycle lanes being created since 2020 and a 71% jump in bike usage between the end of

the COVID-19 lockdowns and 2023, according to City Hall figures.

The changes have infuriated car drivers, however.

The 40 millions d’automobilistes car driving lobby launched a petition to support drivers’ freedom to use whichever vehicle they want. SUVs have become

increasingly popular in France, favoured by families in particular.

“We must firmly oppose these attacks on freedom pursued under false green pretexts,” the group said.

“If we don’t stop it now, this unjustified rebellion led by an ultra-urban and anti-car minority will spread like gangrene to other cities.”

King Charles 111 congratulates Mr and Mrs Sharma on their Milestone 66th wedding Anniversary

Mr Hari Dutt Sharma and Mrs Arun Sharma celebrated their milestone 66th wedding anniversary on 28th December 2023; a get-together was organised at Saffron Indian Restaurant to mark the historic event.

Letters of Congratulations were received from King Charles 111 and Camila, Queen Consort, Prime Minister of Australia

Anthony Albanese, former Queensland premier Anastacia Palaszczuk, Deputy Opposition Leader, Shadow Treasurer and Shadow Minister for Commonwealth Games Mr John-Paul Langbroek, Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate, Member for Moncrieff- Ms Angie Bell MP. Mr Hari Dutt Sharma, originally from Fiji, has

traced his roots back to Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, India. His father arrived in Fiji in 1913. After tracing his roots to India, Hari Dutt Sharma wrote a book on the experience, a copy of which has been

presented to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Mrs Arun Sharma ancestry is from Rajasthan India.

Mr Hari Dutt Sharma turned 91 on 18th November; he had served in the Ministry of Education,

where he was in charge of scholarships, etc; many of his friends remember him from his days at Vivekananda College.

During his younger days, he was a keen soccer player and represented the Labasa

team; he was nicknamed “Fiji Airways” as he was swift on the field. He became the team captain and later on a coach; he was once selected to the Suva team, though he did not get a chance to play for Suva.

IN MEMORIAM

MRS RAM DULARI (1921 – 2023) Few people may remember that a Fiji-born Indian grandmother, widow of Martintar canefarmer Ram Dulare, passed away, aged 102 years, after a short illness at Royal Brisbane Women’s Hospital on December 4, 2023 – just a month before celebrating her next birthday.

Her family gave her an appropriate farewell at the Lakeside Hall at Albany Creek Gardens. Below is the eulogy that a very close family friend Praveen Chandra delivered to a diverse group of mourners.

It was both moving and full of insight into the various facets of our mother’s rich life.

Mrs. Ram Dulari Eulogy As we reflect Amma’s (mother) 102-year life, we are reminded of the profound impact she had on all of us and the countless lives she touched. Amma was born in the village of Vuniyasi in the picturesque town of Nadi, Fiji on 9 January 1921. Amma’s father’s name was Hari Das Sadhu. He was an educated and learned man and an ardent follower of guru Kabir Das. He had come from India with his parents as an eightyear-old boy. His parents Tara Das and Rajwanti, were from a village in Rajasthan and were induced to sail to Fiji under the infamous “girmit” system.

Amma attended Andrews Government Primary School.

In her book, Amma describes an interesting incident in school regarding her wedding Call: (07) 3192 5188

dream as: “When I reached Class Six, the girls and boys had separate desks. It was during this time that an interesting incident occurred that was to change my life later. In my class, there was a boy, Ram Dulare. Whenever the teacher called out his name, I would stand up because of the similarities of our names. This used to cause mirth in the classroom. One day, I dropped my pencil and when I tried to pick it up Ram Dulare recovered it and gave it to me. Our hands brushed gently. Even though I was a very young girl, the thought flashed in my mind that this

is the boy whom I would like to marry. How prescient this was! Eventually, my wishful dream did come true.”

Amma was the classical romantic. Much later in Brisbane she became an ardent listener of Radio Brizvaani and would regularly phone the announcers to request songs to be played for her. One of her favourite songs was from film Dulari – “Suhani raat dhal chuki, na jane tum kab aaoge.”

Amma and Pitaji were married at the Vuniyasi home on 13 March 1935 and Amma moved into her home at Martintar. In due course Amma bore seven children,

Vijendra Kumar, Krishna Kumari, Kusum Kumari, Sudha Kumari, Satya Kumari, Ajendra Kumar and Sarojini Kumari. All the children received good education and held good jobs. The eldest son Vijendra Kumar had the great honour of being appointed the first local editor of the Fiji Times in March 1975.

They all got married and have wonderful families. Vijendra bhaiya lives in Brisbane; Krishna Kumari lives in San Franscisco; Kusum Kumari lives in Brisbane; Sudha Kumari lives in Canada; Ajendra Kumar lives in New Zealand and Sarojini Kumari lives in Sydney. Tragically, Amma’s beloved daughter Satya passed away at her home in Suva in 2011.

In 1986, Amma and Pitaji were sponsored to migrate to Sydney, Australia by their daughter Saroj. Saroj also took Amma and Pitaji to tour India, Canada and the USA. In 1991 their eldest son, Vijendra Kumar and daughter-in-law Sadan migrated to Brisbane with their two sons, Jerry and Noddy, and their daughter, Kartika. Amma and Pitaji decided to move to Brisbane in 1993 to be closer to Vijendra bhaiya and his family. They lived independently in Ashgrove.

In 2010 great tragedy hit the family when Pitaji passed away at the age of around 90 years. Despite this painful setback Amma continued to live an independent life

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on her own, supported by numerous friends and family; and ably cared for by Sushila Massey.

Amma and Pitaji had been happily married for 75 happy years.

In May 2013 Amma was diagnosed with a blood clot in her right leg. Surgeons had no option but to do an amputation at the Royal Brisbane Women’s Hospital.

For a 92-year-old woman who had lived an active and busy life, this had a devastating effect.

It was during her long recovery period at the Dolphin House that she herself came up with the idea of writing her own life story.

Vijendra bhaiya encouraged her and gave her a pen and a notebook and urged her to spend a couple of hours daily writing her journal in Hindi.

Three months later we produced her book “My Story”.

One would think that great setbacks Amma went through would restrict her gregarious ways. But this was not so. She continued to live independently and entertain her guests, and, furthermore, she travelled to Fiji in March 2016 for a sentimental journey to her old home at Martin Tar with her granddaughter Kartika.

Rumours have it that the girls had a ball of a time in Fiji.

On Amma’s 100th birthday, she received congratulatory messages from the Premier of Queensland Hon Annastacia Palaszczuk; the Governor of

Queensland, The Hon Paul de Jersy AC; the Governor General of Australia, His Excellency David Hurley AC DSC (Retd.); the then Prime Minister of Australia, The Hon Scott Morrison; and from Queen Elizabeth of England.

Also, in 2021 we revamped her book “My Story” and retitled it “A Hundred Year Journey”.

Amma was not only a master of the kitchen; she was also a maestro in the art of hospitality. Her home was a place of refuge, where friends and family found solace in her warm embrace and the welcoming atmosphere she created. The doors of her home were always open, and the laughter that echoed within its walls reflected the love that radiated from her heart.

Today, as we remember her, let us cherish the memories of shared laughter around the dining table and the joyous occasions illuminated by her culinary creations.

As we bid farewell to our Amma today, let us not mourn the end of her journey but celebrate the legacy she leaves behind. Her love, wisdom, and generosity have woven a tapestry that will continue to grace our lives for generations to come. Let us carry forward the lessons she imparted, the love she shared, and the joy she spread.

In the words of Rabindranath Tagore, “Death is not extinguishing the light; it is only putting out the lamp because the dawn has come.”

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024 — 37

CONFIRMED! Don 3 pre-production to begin next Re-edited version of Fighter also rejected by U.A.E Ministry, film not month, crew to commence shoot in August Farhan Akhtar’s Don 3 has been in the news not just because it’s the third film of a successful franchise but also because of its new casting. Shah Rukh Khan played Don in the first two instalments but he got replaced by Ranveer Singh in the third. The news generated a mixed response from the audience but is also ensured that the film stayed in news throughout.

There have been recent unconfirmed reports related to the pre-production and shoot of Don 3. A source from the film industry told Bollywood Hungama

exclusively that the news is confirmed. The source said, “The film is currently in the casting stage. It’s 100% true that the pre-production of Don 3 will commence next

month. The team will then start shooting the film from August this year. There were surprising twists in the first two Don movies. Similarly, it is said that Don 3 too will

have some surprises in store for the audience.”

The news about the leading lady in Don 3 is currently under wraps. An announcement about the same is expected before the film goes on floors.

The first film in the franchise Don, which released in 2006 and was produced by Excel Entertainment, was the remake of director Chandra Barot’s classic Don, which starred Amitabh Bachchan and was released in 1978.

Don 2 was the sequel to the 2006 movie and it took the story of the dreaded Don forward.

“Absolute cheapness!” Nikki Tamboli strongly CRITICISES Poonam Pandey’s death hoax for cervical cancer awareness Actress Nikki Tamboli expressed strong disapproval of the initial death announcement of Poonam Pandey for raising awareness.

Poonam Pandey addressed the internet in a surprising video on Saturday, clarifying that she is alive and well, despite a previous statement announcing her death due to cervical cancer.

Read more: https://indiantimes.com.au/

Bombay High Court orders return of Rs 20 Lakhs swindled from Rakesh Roshan in 2011 Bombay High Court orders the return of 20 lakh duped from Rakesh Roshan.

The Bombay High Court has ruled in favour of filmmaker Rakesh Roshan, directing the return of Rs 20 lakhs out of the Rs 50 lakhs that was swindled from him by two individuals posing as CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation) officers back in 2011. The court had already granted him permission to retrieve Rs. 30 lakhs in 2014.

In May 2011, Rakesh Roshan fell victim to a phone call from two fraudsters masquerading as CBI officers, who deceitfully obtained Rs 50 lakhs from him. The payment was made on June 13, 2011, following which the perpetrators ceased communication with Roshan, raising suspicions about the authenticity of their claims. In response, Roshan lodged a written complaint with the AntiCorruption Bureau (ACB) of Maharashtra.

The recent ruling by the Bombay High Court marks a significant development in Roshan's pursuit of justice.

Out of the swindled amount, the court has ordered the return of Rs 20 lakhs to the filmmaker, acknowledging the fraudulent nature of the transaction perpetrated by the two imposters.

Ashwini Sharma from Haryana and Rajesh Ranjan from Mumbai, the two individuals implicated

Release Date Movie Name Audience Score 09 FEB 2024 Lal Salaam 50 09 FEB 2024 Mirg 00 09 FEB 2024 Bhakshak 20 09 FEB 2024 It End'S With Us (English) 00 09 FEB 2024 Captain Miller 59 09 FEB 2024 Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya 66 38 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024

in the scam, were apprehended by the ACB subsequent to Roshan's complaint. The authorities conducted a thorough investigation, leading to the seizure of properties owned by the accused in Navi Mumbai, Haryana, and Dalhousie, collectively valued at approximately Rs 2.94 crores. Additionally, a quantity of gold was seized during the operation.

Roshan had previously

filed an application with the trial court seeking the recovery of his funds, resulting in the court granting him permission to retrieve Rs 30 lakhs in 2014, while withholding the remaining Rs 20 lakhs.

Expressing dissatisfaction with the trial court's decision, Roshan pursued the matter further through legal channels, ultimately approaching the Bombay High Court with the assistance of his lawyer Prasanna Bhangale.

Bhangale argued that both perpetrators were equally culpable in the scam, and there was no justification for withholding the remainder of the swindled amount.

The High Court, in its ruling, concurred with Roshan's contention, affirming that the entire sum of Rs 20 lakhs should be returned to the filmmaker without delay, thereby ensuring that justice is served in this protracted legal battle.

Release Date Movie Name Audience Score 16 FEB 2024 Political War 25 16 FEB 2024 Kusum Ka Biyaah 40 16 FEB 2024 Aakhir Palaayan Kab Tak...?

00 16 FEB 2024 Kuch Khattaa Ho Jaay 67 23 FEB 2024 Crakk - Jeetegaa... Toh Jiyegaa 63 29 FEB 2024 Two Zero One Four 43

to release in the Gulf country

Directed by Siddharth Anand, Fighter hasn't performed well at the box office.

Filmmaker Siddharth Anand’s Fighter hasn’t turned out to be a winner at the box office. But the film’s problems started even before its release when it was banned in Gulf countries for its alleged anti-Pakistan agenda. It was earlier reported that the film would release in U.A.E but it was later banned there as well. The film’s trailer also sparked controversy from across the border for its depiction of Pulwama attack and alleged anti-Pakistan dialogues mouthed by the lead actor Hrithik Roshan.

Following this, the makers of Fighter recently submitted the re-edited version of the film to the U.A.E ministry after removing some ‘problematic’ scenes and dialogues. However, Bollywood Hungama

has learnt that the U.A.E ministry has rejected the re-edited version of Fighter too. Hence, the film has no chance of releasing in U.A.E. The film is likely to lose out on approx. 2 mil. USD from non-release in the U.A.E/ G.C.C belt.

After releasing in India and other countries on January 25, Fighter garnered good box office numbers only on January 26 when it collected Rs. 41.20 crores.

But other than this day, the film has performed below expectations. Till February 1, the movie starring Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone in the lead managed to earn only Rs. 148.35 crores in India.

Fighter also stars Anil Kapoor, Akshay Oberoi and Karan Singh Grover in pivotal roles. The movie is produced by Viacom 18 Motion Pictures and Siddharth Anand’s banner Marflix Pictures.

Subhash Ghai directorial Karma re-releases in PVR INOX

Karma was released in August 1986.

Filmmaker Subhash Ghai's timeless classic Karma graced the screens of select PVR INOX cinemas across the nation, starting today. The re-release of the 1986 blockbuster aims to reignite the cinematic experience for audiences, offering them the chance to witness the magic of this action-packed thriller on the big screen once again.

Expressing his gratitude to PVR INOX for the rerelease of his cinematic gem, Subhash Ghai remarked, "I am deeply grateful to PVR INOX for bringing back one of my most cherished films, Karma, to the big screen. With this re-release, I hope to see the newer generation connect with the film and experience its timeless appeal."

"I would love to invite our new audiences to connect and watch this movie on the

big screens for a larger-thanlife cinematic experience, showcasing the beautiful depiction of characters in this action-drama genre, along with the use of the iconic song 'Aye Watan Tere Liye,' which touched millions of hearts," Ghai added.

Starring a stellar ensemble cast including legends like Dilip Kumar, Nutan, Jackie Shroff, Anil Kapoor, Naseeruddin Shah, Sridevi, Poonam Dhillon, Satyanarayana Kaikala, and Anupam Kher, Karma remains a hallmark in Indian cinema.

The movie revolves around Kumar's portrayal of a former police officer who extends an opportunity for redemption to three men on death row— played by Shah, Shroff, and Kapoor—in exchange for settling a personal vendetta against the head of a notorious terrorist organization, essayed

by Kher.

Birth, Death and Moments Between, a book by Nerin Naidu Birth, Death and Moments Between is a collection of short stories about women: their struggle, strife, success and survival in an everchanging world. The new release by Brisbane author Nerin Naidu spans multiple generations, continents, and cultures, giving words to those without voices and voices to those without words.

Nerin’s debut collection of short stories is brutally honest, sometimes painfully so, scattered with moments of joy, love, regret, hate, and desire - all the traits and emotions that make us human.

About Nerin Nerin was born as a middle child to a fourth-generation South African Indian family.

While in University, Nerin found her two true passions: anthropology, learning about different cultural groups and creative writing, putting pen to paper and letting her thoughts run free.

Nerin graduated from the University of Durban Westville as a teacher. She studied further in South Africa, obtaining her Bachelor of Education.

“For only through education can you succeed,” reiterated her mother's words, a teacher herself.

Nerin secured a position as a high school teacher and

Call: (07) 3192 5188

travelled during the school holidays, unknowingly captivated to remember the lives of people she encountered. She came to a crossroads that would determine the future course of her life.

Job opportunities opened up concurrently in both Canada and Australia. Nerin fell in love with Canada before she even stepped foot on the icy white ground.

She said, “Looking down from the aeroplane's window seat at the snow-covered

landscape below, I felt the calling of home. Stepping off the plane, the cold air that stung my nostrils and slithered into my lungs refreshed me like the very first life-giving breath of a suffocating neonate; the blanketed trees, seeking respite from the Summer’s heat, brought comfort to my scorched soul. It still does every time I’m blessed with the sight of the first purest of snowfall.”

Yet Australia beckoned to her louder and more robustly

with an urgent, determined that she would call Australia home.

And so she did, immigrating to a sun-kissed, searing-hot rural town in Queensland.

Nerin continued to study while working as a teacher, completing her Master of Education from the University of Melbourne and another Master of Education in Guidance in Counselling from the University of Queensland.

Nerin dedicated her entire existence to those she loved

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most: her family and the children she nurtured daily as a special education teacher in Brisbane and later head and leader of a sizeable inclusive education unit at a private college, a department she started from the ground up.

She also volunteered as a grief and loss counsellor, listening to those who needed it most.

Happiness seldom lasts, as Nerin found, suffering a heart attack while assisting a student at work, followed by the tragic loss of her brother.

She had a second heart attack as she navigated through the journey of a busy life.

Nerin believes she is the person she is today because of yesterday's struggle. She pens her deepest thoughts and experiences, personal and those of others, that she encountered on her tediously long and, in reality, brusquely short journey through life.

Nerin is retired. She now volunteers to teach and present creative and expressive writing workshops using art and meditation.

Nerin feels an exhilaration in sharing stories that need telling, stories of significant and defining moments, for she is every woman: a mother, a friend, a daughter, a sister, a teacher, a cousin, an aunt, a wife chipped in places and sometimes frayed at the seams, but whole moving forward with a determined drive as life and love goes on.

Her debut collection of short stories, Birth, Death and Moments Between, reflects life as it happens.

Please visit her website for details of workshops and the availability of her book. www.nerinnaidu.com Birth, Death and Moments Between by Nerin Naidu is also available on Amazon Internationally.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024 — 39

Unlocking Good Health in the New Year The New Year brings great opportunities to make changes to your health. In Western culture New Years Resolutions often revolve around making promises to oneself to make changes to their lifestyle to improve health. These can include: • Stopping smoking • Stopping or drinking less alcohol.

• Losing weight or getting fitter • Eating more healthily • Getting more sleep or rest • Getting a regular check up with a doctor.

Getting a regular check-up with a doctor is crucial for identifying potential health conditions.

Unfortunately, many people believe that their doctor will automatically test for all conditions and therefore know if you have any health concerns. This is not the case for most people.

People often only seek help for their health when they either feel sick, have relative or friend recently diagnosed with a health a condition or need a medical check-up for a job or a visa.

The doctor will then test for

it is not the case for most migrants.

As a patient you can ask to be checked for any conditions that you are concerned about or have perhaps been diagnosed with before coming to Australia.

As we know around 70% of people living with hepatitis B in Australia were born overseas and around 26% of all people living with hepatitis B in Australia do not know they have the infection, it is time to get a hepatitis B test if you do not know your status, yet. Hepatitis C is also an asymptomatic chronic condition that is not routinely checked. Luckily there is a cure for hepatitis C if you tested positive. If you do not have hepatitis B you may be able to get a free

what would usually relate to the symptoms, or what is required for the medical certificate for a new job or a visa.

Why don’t doctors automatically check for all conditions?

This is usually a result of being very busy, needing to address the problem that

the person presents with and the patient not asking for the tests they would like done. Certain conditions, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes, are more common and are routinely screened for in regular health tests.

However, some conditions, like hepatitis B, are more

common in certain groups such as migrants, and often go unchecked by doctors.

This is partly due to hepatitis B being asymptomatic for a long time, coupled with a misconception among some doctors that all migrants undergo hepatitis B screening during immigration health examination, when in fact,

hepatitis B vaccination to protect you from getting the virus.

Start the New Year knowing what you need to do for your health. Whilst people would generally not want to be infected by this virus – it is better to know than not know so you can look after your liver and protect yourself from developing liver cirrhosis or liver cancer.

Ask your doctor if they have a record of status for hepatitis B or C. If they don’t, ask to be checked – it may save your life.

For more information about hepatitis B please visit our website www.eccq.com. au/bbv. You can email us at health@eccq.com.au

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

Home Remedies for Hair Repair, Hair Growth, and Preventing Greying Nimisha Modi

Hetvi Hair & Beauty 0412350013

Hey Girls, we have very common problems with our hair due to the regular use of chemicals. Here, I am sharing some home Remedies for hair repair, hair growth and preventing greying.

Indian Gooseberry (Amla):

Tips to control hair fall and promote hair growth are incomplete without mentioning alma, also known as Indian Goose Berry; it is a popular remedy used in Ayurveda. Regularly applying amla directly on hair helps strengthen the hair follicles, stimulates hair growth, and prevents hair breakage and split ends. Amla has many magical properties; it is filled with antioxidants and vitamin C. Amla is good for healthy hair growth and is known for improving hair pigmentation. Mix 2 teaspoons of Amla juice with

Take two tablespoons of shampoo and mix two tablespoons of rosemary oil into it.

Shampoo your hair with this mixture.

two teaspoons of lime juice.

Apply this mixture on the scalp and leave it to dry for 2 hours. Rinse off with warm water.

Garlic This popular kitchen herb is well-known for its intense flavours and numerous health benefits. Garlic is one of the fast hair growth home remedies and is majorly known for controlling hair fall. It is also one of the most popular home remedies for scalp fungus. It boosts the circulation in the scalp and

regenerates hair growth. Boil 7 to 8 cloves of crushed garlic with olive oil and apply it to the roots of the hair follicles.

Repeat this thrice a week to notice the difference.

Vitamin E Oil Filled with antioxidants, vitamin E oil fights the free radicals. It helps to increase oxygen in the body and improves blood circulation in the scalp. Massage your

40 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024

scalp with vitamin E oil and leave it overnight. Wash it with a mild shampoo the following day to gain silky smooth hair.

Rosemary Oil: Rosemary oil is one of the best oils to reduce hair loss, usually found in Middle Eastern countries.

Prepared from rosemary herb, this oil increases cell division and accelerates blood circulation. It has proved to be effective for hair growth and is used as a hair tonic.

Rosemary Oil Take two tablespoons of shampoo and mix two tablespoons of

rosemary oil into it.

Shampoo your hair with this mixture.

You can also massage your scalp with equal amounts of olive oil and rosemary oil.

Potatoes: Being a rich source of nutrients such as vitamins A, B and C, calcium, potassium, iron and phosphorus, potatoes are an excellent natural remedy for hair growth, preventing dryness of hair and premature greying. Take 1 ½ cups of potato juice in a bowl.

Add a teaspoon of honey, a little

water, and one egg yolk and mix it together. Apply this mixture to damp hair and leave it on for 30 minutes.

Wash off with a mild shampoo.

Potatoes for hair:

Doing this once a week is more than enough to strengthen and rejuvenate weak and brittle hair. After a few months, you will notice a change in your hair. look after yourself in Summer.

See you next time - Nimisha

Top perinatal psychiatrist joins Mater Queensland's largest and most comprehensive perinatal mental health facility Catherine’s House for Mothers Babies and Families has welcomed psychiatrist Dr Kannan Kallapiran to the team.

Located at South Brisbane, Dr Kallapiran has more than 20 years’ experience as a psychiatrist.

“It is my passion to reduce the intergenerational transmission of risk to the baby by working with the family and mother of the baby,” Dr Kallapiran said.

“It is important to keep in mind the social circumstances of a patient, their relationships and more importantly, their connection with their child.”

Dr Kallapiran, who is also the Medical Director of specialist teams in Child Youth Mental Health Service at Children's Health Queensland Hospital Health Service, said Catherine’s House was set up with a

suite of services to help mothers and their babies in an environment that was “warm, welcoming and supportive”.

Dr Kallapiran uses a combination of medical and psychological therapies such

as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Mentalisation-based treatment and MindfulnessBased Stress Reduction.

He works in a strengthbased, recovery-oriented model, empowering mothers to live in alignment with their values.

“I tend to see mothers who are very anxious about caring for their child or can’t sleep because they are worrying about them,” said Dr Kallapiran, who completed his primary training in India and advanced training in Australia, before obtaining his FRANZCP. “I have a range of patients, including depressed mothers

who can’t bond with their baby, mothers who can’t enjoy the time they spend with their baby, and mothers who lack motivation and find it a huge struggle to look after their baby.”

Dr Kallapiran also provides support to mothers with a history of depression, anxiety and those who have other serious mental disorders.

He is currently undertaking the Positive Childhood Experiences (PCE) research project at The University of Queensland, evaluating the impact of PCEs on adult mental health outcomes.

• Referrals are required for patients to see Dr Kallapiran at Catherine’s

House, Raymond Tce, South Brisbane. Phone 3163 2299 for more information.

5 signs and symptoms to look out for: • Reduced enjoyment in activities that previously brought enjoyment including interaction with the baby • Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt or tearfulness • Thoughts of wanting to die or wanting to escape • Recurrent scary thoughts about something bad happening to their baby or them • Physical symptoms that were not previously present such as palpitations, chest tightness, shortness of breath or body tension

Record number of nurses in Free TAFE pipeline • The next generation of nurses have kick started training today, studying the Diploma of Nursing at TAFE Queensland, Central Queensland University and Mater Education.

• Students enrolled in Diploma of Nursing can expect to go onto exciting careers, serving on the frontline in Queensland hospitals and strengthening the priority health industry.

• The Diploma of Nursing is offered for free by the Queensland Government, which will save students almost $25,000 More than 1,400 students have enrolled in a Diploma of Nursing for free in 2024 – including more than 200 at the TAFE Queensland South Bank campus.

Premier Steven Miles today joined Skills Minister Lance McCallum to welcome the first cohort for 2024 – the largest seen at TAFE statewide.

The Diploma of Nursing at TAFE allows students to get a headstart in healthcare at world class facilities, including simulated nursing rooms that replicating a real-life hospital setting equipped with the latest technology and advanced training products.

This initative is fully funded by the Miles Labor Government through an investment of up to $87.5 million to support 3,500 training places.

The Diploma of Nursing is offered for free in addition to the jointly funded Fee-Free TAFE program.

Free TAFE offers tuition-free courses to Queenslanders wanting to train, retrain or upskill in priority industries.

For 2024, 74 courses have been identified as priority areas including aged care, disability support, child care, tourism, agriculture and cyber security.

Priority groups for FeeFree TAFE include young people aged 17-24 years, First Nations people, people who have experienced unemployment, unpaid carers, women facing Call: (07) 3192 5188

economic insecurity, women undertaking study in nontraditional fields, and people with a disability.

Industry priorities being delivered under Fee-Free TAFE are based on advice from Queensland’s network of Industry Skills Advisors, industry peaks and Jobs Queensland’s Anticipating Future Skills projections.

For a full list of FeeFree TAFE courses and qualifications available from 1 January 2024, please visit https://desbt.qld.gov.au/ fee-free-tafe Quotes attributable to Premier Steven Miles: “Free TAFE is changing lives.

“It is a legacy of our government and has now become a staple training program nationwide.

“The Diploma of Nursing was one of the most popular free TAFE courses offered last year, which is why my government is fully funding its continuation in 2024.

“There are 3,500 places available this year, which will save students over $84 million in tuition fees.

“I firmly believe that Queenslanders should have access to priority skilling for free so they can get good secure jobs in those indemand industries.

“So we will keep investing in improving TAFE campuses and put money on the table to continue offering free TAFE for years to come.

“I want to wish all our TAFE students the very best – it is going to be bigger and better than ever.”

Quotes attributed to Minister for Training and Skills Development Lance McCallum: “By removing cost barriers, we have opened the door so many more Queenslanders can now pursue a career in the field of their choosing.

“Last year, more than 66,000 Queenslanders embraced the golden opportunity that is Free TAFE to gain new skills and find a job, or to upskill and change careers.

“That includes 3,100

students who started their Diploma of Nursing in 2023.

“Today, students studying a Diploma of Nursing for free in 2024 at the South Bank campus got their first taste of what’s to come for the year ahead – meeting with teachers and other students and touring the outstanding facilities at the campus.

“While these students will save over $24,000 in study fees, all Queenslanders will benefit from their service – contributing to a stronger, more responsive health system.

“Across the board, more than 43,000 Free TAFE places will be available for Queenslanders over the next three years as part of a $170 million joint investment.

“That includes in courses like Cyber Security. Just last week I was in Cairns to officially open the new $2.5 million Cyber Security Training Facility we’ve built, which will allow Cyber Security students from the regions to study and work at home for the first time.

“It’s facilities like this that we will continue to deliver so Queensland students have the very best training ground – equipping them with the skills they need for the real world.

Additional information: Fee-Free TAFE • Nationally, the Australian Government will fund an additional 300,000 Fee-Free TAFE and vocational education places over three years starting in 2024 – delivered in partnership with states and territories.

• $85 million over three years will be provided by the Australian Government while the Queensland Government’s contribution will at least match the Commonwealth’s $85 million investment – to deliver 43,400 feefree training places in Queensland across the three years of the agreement.

• Students who hold or have previously completed a funded qualification are eligible to enrol in Fee-Free

TAFE to gain new skills or enhance their existing skills.

However, students can only complete one Fee-Free TAFE qualification.

• The courses and qualifications offered as part of this Fee-Free TAFE program aim to address demand for skills and longterm workforce planning aligned with the Queensland Government’s Good People.

Good Jobs.

Queensland Workforce Strategy 202232.

• The mix of qualifications and short courses available through Fee-Free TAFE from 2024 over three years provide for upskilling in traditional sectors, as well as investment in growing,

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diversifying and building new industries.

Free Diploma of Nursing • In an $87.5 million boost to the Fee Free TAFE program, 3,500 Diploma of Nursing placements will be available for free in 2024.

• Recent Jobs Queensland’s data shows the Health Care and Social Assistance industry is expected to grow by 16.4 per cent by 2025-26.

About South Bank TAFE campus • There are more than 7000 students enrolled in training at the TAFE Queensland South Bank campus in 2024 – including 2,000 enrolled in Fee Free TAFE courses and 203

commencing a Diploma of Nursing.

• The South Bank campus is located over four hectares and is one of TAFE Queensland's premier training facilities.

• The campus offers a comprehensive range of study areas beyond the health sector – everything from beauty and hairdressing to building design and civil engineering.

• From 2017-18 to 2022-23, the Queensland Government has invested over $288 million in building new and upgrading existing training facilities across the state, including around $47.2 million in the Metro region.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024 — 41

FEB. 2024

MONTHLY Predictions Aries ( 21st March to 20th April )

Taurus ( 21st April to 21st May )

Gemini ( 22nd May to 21st June )

You can now achieve the most favorable results and may also find a quick solution of all the troubles associated with professional activities. There will be some lucrative options if you are in business.

However, the impact of the South Node can be detrimental hence you should also check every details before entering into any deal or contract. It is also a favorable month for planning your next move if you wish to change the job. The impact of planets will make you able to act wisely and your determination will never let your finances down. But do not to succumb to the temptations as the impact of North Node seems highly illusive. The past investments that you have done will start giving you good returns during the latter part of this month. Venus will help you doing well and your efforts will give you good returns making you financially strong. The impact of Venus and Mars indicates that your sensuality will be very much in the forefront this month. Venus will bless you with some fine days for romance. Make an overture now.

Mars will enhance your enthusiasm. Watch for a lighthearted debate to become a little naughty and funny with your mate during this phase.

You will have good energy levels but, you may end of scattering your energies behind lots of activities. The transiting Moon may bring some vicissitudes in health mostly due to some emotional draining or higher stress levels during this phase. Despite some fluctuations in your health, you will be able to keep things firmly under control. Planets will inspire you to work hard to get high scores in your studies.

The month can be progressive but Mars indicates that power struggle with some of your associates is going to set you back for some time, but worry not. If you are in business, your confidence and positive approach will bring substantial growth as well. It is likely to provide you with good opportunity to strike some good financial deals. Venus will bless you with the perfect time to enjoy an adventurous date with your partner. Mercury suggests that it will not turn out to be easygoing for your studies in the beginning though. As Jupiter will bless you, expect a rush of good things at your work place, especially if you are doing business.

However, it’s time to change the strategies and established new ways of earning. Mars will give you some shocks and surprises in the middle of this month hence get ready for a wild ride in your love life. Jupiter may also bring positivity in your education. Mars during the latter half may be tempted you to step up the pace, but avoid hasty steps. Gradually, Venus will bring successful phase for you and a good time to look for additional income. You will be blessed with new friends and improve your social life after the mid of this month. The impact of North Node can be complex around the month end. Someone you thought you knew well can rub you the wrong way. If you are in business, think big picture with some caution. If you are in relationship, Venus will bring chances to tie the knot for conjugal bliss. There will be possibility of inflammatory diseases. Though nothing seems so serious still they cannot be ignored. North Node will also bring some unexpected issues which can create disruptions in your studies around the month end.

: In the beginning of this month, the restrictive impact of South Node may make you feel blocked in your career. You can even look for job change. In your business, staying on task will require much more extra effort. In relationship matters, you need to find some time and space for each other regardless of your other commitments. Gradually around the mid of this month, Venus will bless your love life and you will come across a person who you will be interested in you. It will be also a time to take as much as advantage of favorable planetary influence of Mercury in your studies. During the latter half, Mars will make your professional life very hectic. There will be some delays and difficulties in getting desired recognition. If you are doing business, keep patience. Some constraints can hold you from accelerating pace to achieve your financial goals. Venus will help you manage your relationship but, the complex influence of North Node may not allow you to enjoy the true colors of love. Also, Mars may make you a little overconfident or reckless hence your results may not be up to the mark in your studies. Pressure to perform will increase during the latter part due to the impact of South Node this week. If you are doing business, you may have little time to relax and breathe. The ending phase of this month will help you to find viable solutions of some pending financial issues due to the support of Mercury. But your health will need more attention due to a sensitive stomach or digestive issues. You may face some challenges in your studies around the month end.

Cancer ( 22nd June to 22nd July )

Leo ( 23rd July to 22nd August )

Virgo ( 23rd August to 22nd September )

As the month begins, Mercury indicates that someone could approach you with a particularly inventive idea for career growth. However, challenges may force you to exercise some underutilized muscles particularly if you are in business. Venus will boost your financial strength through innovative ventures. But, the impact of North Node could bring some emotional frustration in your love life. If you are facing any chronic ailments, you will be relieved now. As the month advances, Jupiter will also bring some pleasant surprises. Adding monetary sources and increasing cash inflow will be on your agenda. Trust your instincts, but back them with reason too. Otherwise, you may have to face some cash crunch, warns the South Node. Planets will bless your love life with full of positivity and happiness around the mid of this month. But, in matters related to education, Saturn will demand you work harder to get through. Also, some old health issues are likely to recur and proper medical aid will be necessary around the mid of this month. Jupiter will inspire you to be as correct as possible during the latter part of this month. There will be some promising opportunities for gain and an excellent time for the finances. Time with your friends and beloved ones will be typically fantastic. Mars will increase your vitality and confidence as well. Around the month end, you may be thinking about switching to a new work.

Under the influence of Mars, do not rush to any conclusion in hurry. A good period for your academic career around the month end.

The movement of South Node will not be so favourable for career-oriented professionals in the beginning of this month. Increments or promotions are hard to come. Mercury indicates that you may have many ideas and strategies floating around in your mind to strengthen your financial but, it can be misleading and you may find it difficult to make headway. Venus will bring plenty of good things to happen in your personal life though.

In your studies, you may be felling some confusions. In the beginning of this month, there can be the possibility of digestion problems.

Mercury indicates constructive changes on your professional front around the mid of this month. If you are doing business, this can be a perfect time for expansion. But the influence of North Node may lead to expenses related to family. However, with the blessings of Mercury you may have gradual improvement in flow of income. The mid of this month will be highly romantic as well as passionate due to the combined impact of Mars and Venus. The impact of North Node can create negative thoughts and anxiety, but with the determination you will be able to manage make progress in your studies. During the most of the part of the latter half, Jupiter may remain highly beneficial for career development. If you are engaged in the business, you will prosper. Mercury may help you fulfil your financial wishes and help you achieve your goals as well. Rapport with your family members and beloved ones will improve further. Due to strong support of Jupiter, you will be able to focus better and you will have stronger chances to achieve your goals in your studies.

In the beginning of this month, overall planetary positions seem to be in your favour in your career. The combined impact of Venus and Mercury indicate that you will have luck by your side, Things look set to be encouraging and progressive for financial realm. Due to the impact of Mars, you may feel pushed away from monotony and inspired to fall in love with something fresh. However, there is a possibility that you may struggle hard to get expected results in your studies. You will be somewhat careless about your health so Irregular eating habits or over-indulgence may cause some health issues. Jupiter will facilitate gains and new ventures as the month advances. You may be offered a new position with more responsibilities. You will have ample support from Venus to empower and manage your finance efficiently but Mars may bring flashes of some problems in your relationship. Also, you may have high interest in extracurricular activities hence, your performance in studies may suffer to an extent around the mid of this month. During the latter half of month, there may be some unexpected issues at your work place due to the impact of North Node. Also, Mars might land you in troubles if you adopt short cuts for quick financial gains Timely guidance may help you to overcome the difficulties and may make you able to sail through successfully in your studies. You are to make progress towards your fitness goals as well. The ending part of month will make you more vivacious at work place. If you are doing business, you are in for some better times.

Libra ( 23rd September to 22nd October )

Scorpio ( 23rd October to 22nd November )

Sagittarius ( 23rd November to 21st December )

In the beginning of this month, you must keep cool and analyses the situations perfectly in your career as the impact of Mercury will be complex. If you are doing business, you may also need to review your plan during this phase. You must refrain from making any new investments at this time. Mars indicates that your interactions with your beloved ones may become somewhat difficult. Also, it will be a time to review your past performance and to make necessary modifications in order to achieve better results in your studies. Things shall start picking up in your career as the month advances. The impact of Jupiter may make you able to strengthen your financial position. Patience and belief in your commitment shall stand with you and likely to boost your love life gradually. Mercury suggests that it will be good time to cross the frontiers of the mind by expanding knowledge and skills. As you will generally follow a disciplined life style, your health and fitness level may improve. Career graph is likely to go up during the latter half of this month. Mars will do its bit to help your financial visions. But, there may be some pressure on your income due to some unexpected expenses caused by the South Node. Venus may help you hold on to old and existing relationships, But. Around the month end there may be some stress and disturbances in your love life and relationship due to the impact of South Node. It may require you to step up your efforts and prove your talents as there may be stiff competition to face in your studies. Your energy level and vitality will be good but you may have fluctuations in your energy levels around the month end.

In the beginning of this month, the impact of Mars may bring some complicated matters at your work place.

If you are doing business, you must not take undue risk. You may get financial opportunities but not all opportunities will turn out to be promising. However, if you have recently started seeing someone, there will be opportunities for developing the relationship further. As the month advances, Jupiter indicates that your income will be stable, meeting your expectations. If you are already into relationship then time will need you to adjusting to temperamental disturbance with your partner, indicates Mars. Mercury shows a favorable phase for your studies around the mid of this month. It is important to remain focused on your goals though. Though your energy levels may remain good this week, you may at times face uncomfortable situations around the middle of this month. Jupiter indicates that the latter half of month can be an important phase for you if you are doing business. Maybe you will strike gold in territory which you have never chartered before.

Keep a check on negative emotions of anger and ego as the impact of Mars may bring misunderstandings this time around. Around the end of this month, you are likely to be motivated and work doubly hard to achieve your professional goals now thanks to the power of Mars.

Under the influence of North Node, refrain from speculating in shady schemes and risky offers though. Mercury indicates that wonderful conversations between you and your beloved ones are likely to make you feel happy.

As you have ample support of Mars in the beginning, your performance may remain excellent and success will be achieved in your career. If you are in business, you may make encouraging progress and also fare well enough in new projects. In your love life, you may generally have pleasure. At times in the beginning, you may feel impatient or lack of concentration may not allow you to perform well in your studies. Mars may help you improve your stamina and fitness levels. As the month advances, Saturn might generate some frustration, but it will help you march forward with a greater clarity in your career. Mars may make over ambitious and force you to take undue risk which could also affect your financial status.

Around the middle of this month, some misunderstandings may cause disruptions. Keep patience. Jupiter may bring in some positive changes in your education and allied activities gradually. There may be some fluctuations in your health status around the mid of this month. You must avoid extremes at emotional or physical levels. Pace of progress is likely to start picking positive momentum due to the support of Jupiter and Mars during the latter half. However, Saturn may force you to work hard to achieve what you have set out to. You are likely to enjoy some stimulating moments in your relationship but under the influence of Mars, at times your actions will be rather forceful than you actually intended. Saturn around the ending part of month will demand strict financial discipline. If you make the mistake of squandering your money, you are likely to face the results.

Capricorn ( 22nd December to 20th January )

Aquarius ( 21st January to 18th February )

Pisces ( 19th February to 20th March )

As the month begins, Mars will bring many positive developments in your professional life. If you are doing business, you may get some good opportunities to strike some big deals. Your efforts might bring positive results and financial gain. Your love life will be exciting as the week begins but, at times your stubborn approach is likely to make your relationship vulnerable. Saturn will force you to bring more discipline in your life to improve your results in exams. As you will have ample support of Venus, a sense of satisfaction will prevail on the career front during the middle of this month. If you are doing business, you must not make any hasty moves to expand the business. A new relationship flowers, somewhere around the middle of this month. Positive planetary influences are likely to help you make progress in your education. There may be some fluctuations in your health status so you must avoid extremes at emotional or physical levels. During the latter half, under the influence of North Node, some people or situations will irritate you a lot and distract you again and again. You are likely to get some excellent opportunities to empower your financial strength. But, financial decisions must be taken with due calculation and expert advice. There may be some disturbances in relationship due to unnecessary lengthy discussions on some trivial issues. This phase is likely to motivate you towards study. You may also get overseas opportunities if you are trying to get admission abroad. Here your energy level may not be up to the mark and there may be some seasonal health issues as well.

Mercury may bring some promising opportunities at your work place in the beginning of this month.

As the month advances, Jupiter seems supportive for increasing earnings. The combined impact of Mercury and Venus will boost your love life. You will focus well on your studies and hence there will be marked improvement in your status. However, Saturn indicates your low resistance or weak immune system may make you prone to some seasonal health problems. As the month advances, Jupiter may bring many opportunities for growth and gain in your profession. However, North Node may continue putting hurdles on your way to progress. Love will thrive among committed couples. But senior members of the family may create problems and disrupt the harmony of the family. You are likely to make encouraging progress in your studies. If you are suffering from any ailments, you may get cured around the mid of this month. During the latter half, Saturn will bring many obstacles. As the month advances, your stronger financial status may bring more material pleasure. However, you must not make any ambitious investments as there are chances of wrong judgment under the influence of North Node. Mercury indicates that you should be able to study well and finish your projects within the deadlines. North Node indicates that you may get irritated by constant pressure by seniors as the month approaches its end.. It will be a good time for buying a home, investment in land or vehicle around the month end.

In the beginning of this month, Mars will be disruptive for your career advancement so be grounded and careful at your work place. Jupiter indicates a good time for long-term financial planning and strengthening your financial status. Venus may bring opportunity to enter a relationship. Mercury will remain favorable and this will make you very much focused and mentally sharp in your studies. Mars may bring some fluctuations in your health though. As the month advances, you would love to take on challenges. Mars indicates that your productivity will remain high around the mid of this month and thus you will be able to achieve success in your endeavors. This week will help you to consolidate your financial status. Areas of work would expand leading you to better earning opportunities. But it might bring some dissatisfaction and disruptions in your love life. Mercury is not auspicious for academic purposes. And it will bring vicissitudes in health as well. During the latter half, the execution of your plans can be easier for you due to support of Mercury. If you are in business, some new challenges may surface this week. Accept them without any fear. If you are currently not involved with anyone, Venus will raise chances to meet someone and begin a new chapter of relationship. North Node might make you uncomfortable with your health and fitness level. As the month approaches its end, Saturn will make you feel that the coordination or harmony with your boss and associates is not as good as it was before.

42 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2020 — 51

Sean Abbott praises debutants after Australia's ODI series victory against the West Indies Sean Abbott believes Australia's one-day international series victory against the West Indies has unearthed long-term stars of the future.

Only four players who competed in last year's victorious World Cup final were available for both of Australia's two matches since, leading four debutants to earn selection across the pair of wins.

Quicks Xavier Bartlett and Lance Morris each earned their first caps in the eightwicket defeat of the West Indies at the MCG on Friday, with Bartlett earning player of the match honours.

Swashbuckling batter Jake Fraser-McGurk and all-rounder Will Sutherland

were selected for their own debuts on Sunday, when the hosts closed out the series with an 83-run victory at the SCG. Only three members of Australia's champion World Cup squad are under 30, emphasising the need for the side to begin assessing its options for the coming years.

Bowling all-rounder Abbott, player of the match in the SCG win, is confident that process is going swimmingly.

"We've seen four debutants already who have gone about it in different ways," said Abbott, who scored 69 and took 3-40.

"But I think they've jumped on the front foot early and they look ready to keep playing.

"I think there are some long-term options that we've seen there already."

Fraser-McGurk played a fierce and fleeting innings on debut, smacking Alzarri Joseph down the ground for

four and over deep square leg for six before being caught behind on 10 runs.

A shining light for Melbourne Renegades in this summer's BBL, FraserMcGurk attempted a slog

on the very first ball of the innings.

"I'm not going to quote what he said but we knew he was going to go out and take it on," Abbott said.

The 21-year-old's furious efforts reminded Abbott of two international teammates.

"We've seen Travis [Head] build a game around that, Mitch Marsh is sort of not as aggressive as that but they all take the positive option and that's the way we've played for a long time now.

"That's going to complement the other batters around him in the powerplay if [Fraser-McGurk] continues to get opportunities, which I'm sure he will."

Sutherland posted figures of 2-28 with the ball

and took a leaping catch to dismiss Justin Greaves (8) as Australia restricted the tourists to 175 in their pursuit of 259 for victory.

The Victorian captain also impressed Abbott with his maturity during the pair's 57-run partnership for the eighth wicket of Australia's innings at the crease.

"We were obviously under a bit of pressure," Abbott said.

"As soon as we started talking I knew he was ready for it. The game plan was pretty simple, just get together and rotate the strike and hopefully be there around the 45th over.

"He went about it beautifully and then he did the same with the ball."

IND vs ENG 2nd Test: India need collectivism as much as individual dazzle to win in Vizag

Australia's Li Shixin adds silver to Australia's medal tally at World Aquatics Championships

The highest any team has chased in a fourth innings to win a Test in India is 387, achieved by the host themselves against England in 2008, just weeks after 26/11, inspired by a breathtaking knock by Virender Sehwag.

Before England took the field on Sunday, Brendon McCullum told them that “even if the target is 600, we are going for it’. They require just more than half of those runs on a pitch that is not showing any signs of waking up, but the match is on a knife’s edge, promising to swing either way. England have wiped off 67 runs in 14 overs in the final hour of the final session of Day 3, chasing 399, but this could yet be the biggest ever challenge for the unflappable Bazballers.

The highest any team has chased in a fourth innings to win a Test in India is 387, achieved by the host themselves against England in 2008, just weeks after 26/11, inspired by a breathtaking knock

by Virender Sehwag. If Zak Crawley continues to provide the spark at the top, then there is a strong chance of England overtaking it.

It is not new for the Bazballers. In 2022, against India at Edgbaston, they chased down a target of 378 without breaking much sweat. Before that against New Zealand, they chased three successive totals of 280-plus to set the Bazball era loading. Going one step further here at Visakhapatnam would be icing on the cake.

That India got to 255 in the second innings was largely thanks to Shubman Gill’s century as India’s batting unit continues to blow hot and cold. Ideally,

Li Shixin has won a silver medal at the World Aquatics Championships in the men's one-metre springboard, his best performance yet in Australian colours at the age of 35.

His medal adds to the bronze he claimed as a member of Australia's quartet in the mixed team event and the gold won by Alysha Koloi in the women's one-metre springboard final.

The much-decorated Li, who won gold in the onemetre springboard for China at the 2011 and 2013 world championships, has now landed a third global medal for his adopted country by finishing second in Saturday's final in Doha.

He put on a brilliant show that was only bettered by gifted Mexican teenager Osmar Olvera, who proved in a class of his own for the gold.

Li emigrated with his

India would have hoped to put a safe target on board. Of course, they still managed a lead of 398, but it is the Bazball approach that is not attaching a firm favourite tag next to them.

In that sense, like in the first innings of Hyderabad, India may regret leaving a few runs behind here in the second innings. Despite the track not showing any signs of crumbling, the next highest score after Gill’s 104 was Axar Patel’s 45. Yashasvi Jaiswal – double centurion in the first innings—Shreyas Iyer, Rajat Patidar, and KS Bharat could not lend any support to their cause.

That they were in search of a safe target was not lost on England, who attacked at both ends, especially after McCullum told them not to worry about how much they leaked. “I think the nerves were there to see today, the way they batted. I think they didn’t know how many was enough,” James Anderson said. “They were quite cautious, even when they had a big lead. I know there are 180 overs left in the game, but we will try to do it in 60 or 70. That’s the way we play. We have set our stall out, tomorrow (Monday) will be no different, we will play the same way we have the last two years. Whether we win or lose, it’s not

44 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024

irrelevant because we are extremely competitive and want to win every game we play. We want to play in a certain way. I think we will be doing that tomorrow (Monday),” Anderson added.

So far in the Test, India have managed to stay on top mostly due to individual brilliance than collective effort. Over the course of three days, Jaiswal, Jasprit Bumrah and Gill have not only kept them in the game, but also have laid a platform. On Day 4, India need their attack to step up more than ever before, particularly after how easy England’s batsmen found it in the final hour of Sunday.

In the last Test that India played here, against South Africa, it was Mohammed Shami’s reverse-swings that finished the job on the final day. Having found enough reverse-swing in the first two Tests, especially with a semi-new ball, how well they make use of it in the first-half of the day could well determine which way this Test is headed. That Gill said 70:30 in favour of India says the unease that exists in the dressing room.

For England, there is a bit of uncertainty around Joe Root’s availability to bat, who injured his finger while fielding. But irrespective of his availability, the game is on a knife’s edge.

wife and three children to Australia and joined the national team set-up in 2019 in a bid to achieve his dream of competing at an Olympics.

He was fifth after his opening dive in Doha but superb efforts in the third and fifth rounds helped him quickly take control of second-place overall.

There was a nervous moment for Li following a disappointing final dive that looked as if it might let in Briton Ross Haslam to pip

him for silver.

But he was relieved to see the scores ensured he would hold on to the silver with an overall tally of 395.70 points, just 2.60 ahead of Haslam.

Olvera (431.75) was 36.05 points clear of the Australian.

The other Australian finalist, Kurtis Mathews, placed sixth with 372.90 points.

The diving competition in Doha continues until February 11.

After helping improve facilities for wrestlers and regaining her uncurbed enthusiasm, unstoppable Vinesh Phogat wins Nationals crown 55-kg might be a nonOlympic category, and sterner tests await when qualifying in 53kg for Paris, but the joy and thrill of competing is back for the champion wrestler who didn't concede a single point.

It was a near-perfect return to competition for Vinesh Phogat after being away from wrestling for a year-and-a-half because of being involved in protests and a knee injury. The 29-year-old making a comeback after a knee surgery in August didn’t concede a single point in the 55kg rounds, displayed

strong defense against Haryana’s Tamanna in the quarterfinal and won by fall

against Madhya Pradesh’s Jyoti in the final in just two minutes.

Kairali Brisbane’s Christmas and New Year event shares joy and cheers

The holiday season in Brisbane, Australia, was illuminated with the warmth and cheer of Kairali's remarkable Christmas and New Year events. With festive spirit in the air and hearts brimming with joy, Kairali Brisbane, one of the prominent organisations in Queensland known for its commitment to cultural exchange and community engagement, orchestrated a memorable celebration that brought together family, friends and community from all walks of life under the new leadership of Mr Tom Jose Anithottathil.

The event was held on the 20th of January 2024 at Logan West Community Centre, Hillcrest, coordinated by Mr. Jay Nair and Dr. Jaisy Arikkatt, captivating around 500 attendees. The event hosted

Call: (07) 3192 5188

dignitaries and community leaders, including Fr. Abraham Nadukunnel, Parish priest, St. Thomas, the Apostle Syro-Malabar Forane Church, Brisbane South, Mr James Martin MP, Member for Stretton, Mr Jon Raven, Councillor, Logan City Council, Mr Anoop Nannaru, President, FICQ, Mr Shyam Das, immediate past President FICQ. The Master of ceremonies, Mr Jay Nair and Mrs Ramya Vishnu, with warmth and sincerity, guests to partake in the joyous festivities, encouraging participation and interaction that enriched the communal experience.

Attendees were treated to performances featuring mesmerising Margam kali dances, soul-stirring Carol songs, and Bollywood dance performances. Amidst the jubilant atmosphere and

twinkling lights, Santa's arrival added a touch of magic and wonder to the festivities, bringing joy and laughter to children and adults alike. The stage came alive with a Laser DJ show conducted by DJ Manu Anthony. The evening was filled with a kaleidoscope of talent and creativity. One of the event's highlights was

the culinary extravaganza, a five-course meal organised

by Five-star catering by chef Tom that delighted the senses and tantalised taste buds. The aroma of spices mingled with the laughter and chatter of attendees, creating an ambience of warmth and friendliness.

“Our celebration transcends boundaries of culture, language, and tradition, bringing together people from all walks of life to revel in the joy of togetherness and shared humanity exclaimed. Mr. Thomas Jose Anithottathil is the president of Kairali Brisbane.

“Through our events and initiatives, we seek to celebrate the richness and diversity of our tradition while also nurturing a sense

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of belonging and inclusivity that transcends borders and barriers.” Mr Shibu Eldho, Secretary of Kairali Brisbane, expressed his gratitude, stating, “The success of the event would not have been possible without the support and collaboration of federal and state governments, City Council, local businesses, community organisations, dedicated volunteers and performers who contributed their time, talent and resources to make this event a resounding success”.

As we bid farewell to

the holiday season, the memories of Kairali's spectacular celebration will linger in the hearts and minds of all who attended, serving as a testament to the enduring spirit of joy, generosity, and goodwill that defines the holiday season.

In the tapestry of Brisbane's cultural landscape, Kairali's event has woven a vibrant unity and celebration, illuminating the city with the timeless magic of Christmas and the promise of a new year filled with hope and possibility.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024 — 45

South Bank Piazza Hosts Grand Pongal Festival Celebration 1st time in its 11 years of celebrations

Brisbane (13/01/2024) – The vibrant spirit of Pongal, the traditional South Indian harvest festival, illuminated the South Bank Piazza in Brisbane as the Queensland Tamil Mandram and Thaai Tamil School organised a spectacular celebration. The event was made possible with the generous support of title sponsors Tradern Australia and ARBT Prefab, and many other sponsors witnessed the participation of esteemed guests, including Hon MP Charis Mullen, Councillor Angela Owen, Senator Paul Scarr, Councillor Trina Massey, making it a truly memorable occasion.

The South Bank Piazza, adorned with colourful decorations and resonating with traditional music and dance sounds, has become the epicentre of cultural exchange and joyous festivities. Pongal, a harvest festival celebrated predominantly in the Tamil

community, symbolises the abundance of the harvest season and is an occasion to express gratitude for nature’s bounties.

The Pongal committee worked tirelessly to bring the Pongal celebrations to South Bank Piazza, creating a sense of unity and cultural pride.

The event aimed to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Tamil community and foster cross-cultural understanding among the diverse population of Brisbane.

This year’s Pongal Festival at South Bank piazza marked a departure from tradition and underscored the adaptability and resilience of cultural celebrations.

The QTM TTS and sponsors have successfully paved the way for a new chapter in the continuous celebration of Pongal in Brisbane, solidifying the festival’s place in the city’s diverse cultural landscape.

Varnam Cultural Society (QLD) hosts a Citizenship Ceremony

January 26th, Australia Day, is now synonymous with citizenship ceremonies across this glorious country.

Likewise, the Varnam Cultural Society (QLD) is synonymous with the successful execution of various multicultural events and hosts a Citizenship Ceremony this Australia Day. A Citizenship Ceremony is a significant occasion that marks the welcoming of a new cohort to the diverse tapestry of our nation.

Traditionally, local councils commemorate Australia Day by orchestrating such ceremonies, uniting individuals from all backgrounds to partake in the solemn recitation of the pledge of commitment – the culminating step in their journey towards Australian citizenship. For the Varnam Cultural Society, this marks our inaugural hosting of the Australia Day Citizenship

Ceremony.

In the early morning hours, Varnam Cultural Society members convened with enthusiasm to meticulously prepare for the ceremony at the local Springfield Lakes State School. They were soon joined by Hon. Milton Dick, Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives, Federal Member for Oxley and Charis Mullen MP, Minister for Child Safety, Seniors, Disability & Multicultural Affairs, State Member for this Jordan electorate.

Hon. Teresa Harding, Mayor of Ipswich,

46 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024

Cr, accompanied the distinguished ministers— Paul Tully, representing Division 2 as an Ipswich Councillor, and Cr. Nicole Jonic, also from Ipswich City Council, is serving as Councillor for Division 2.

By approximately 8:15 AM, the atmosphere was imbued with joy as the new citizens arrived to partake in the final stage of their journey towards Australian Citizenship.

The ceremony commenced with a vibrant opening

by Rajarajan Thennavan, President of the Varnam Cultural Society, extending

a warm welcome to all attendees on their joyous occasion.

Hon. Milton Dick MP, as the Presiding Officer, adeptly presided over the ceremony with grace and dignity, elevating the experience into a truly memorable occasion for our new citizens. Guiding the proceedings, he administered the pledge to the new citizens.

Hon. Charis Mullen MP delivered an inspiring speech, instilling a sense of unity and pride among all present.

The pledge-taking ceremony culminated with a rendition of the Australian National Anthem, skilfully led by the talented Lakhsheeny M Parasuraman, whose mesmerising voice resonated throughout the gathering.

Following the ceremony, the Presiding officer and the guests generously participated in photo sessions, creating lasting memories for the new citizens and contributing to the overall significance of the

day.

Varnam Cultural Society and its dedicated members take pride in orchestrating yet another successful debut in hosting a government event, underscoring their unwavering commitment to the Greater Springfield community service.

Congratulations to all new citizens of this magnificent land, our home, Australia!

By Rekha N Swamy Public Relations Officer Varnam Cultural Society

Australia Day 2024 Honours List The Governor-General announced Honours and Awards for 1,042 Australians, including awards in the Order of Australia (General and Military Divisions), meritorious awards and recognition for distinguished and conspicuous service.

“Congratulations to the outstanding Australians recognised in today’s Honours List. Recipients have made a difference and had an impact at the local, national and/ or international level.

Individually, they are inspiring and collectively

they speak to the strength of our communities,” the Governor-General said.

“Recipients come from all parts of the country. They have served and had an impact in just about every field you can imagine; their stories and backgrounds are diverse. We value their service, thank them for their hard work and selflessness and, today, celebrate them.

“To each recipient: know that you have the thanks and respect of your nation.

In my experience most are humble and often try to deflect attention or praise

– please enjoy the moment because your country has decided that you deserve

recognition.”

For the second consecutive Honours list

the majority of recipients in the General Division are women.

“To all Australians: our honours system belongs to all of us and the Order of Australia must reflect who we are. We can all nominate someone we admire and respect for recognition.

Please consider doing so,” the Governor-General said.

In addition to the 739 recipients of awards in the General Division of the Order of Australia (4 AC, 38 AO, 194 AM and 503 OAM), today’s Honours list includes:

• 20 recipients of awards in the Military Division of the Order of Australia (1 AO, 9 AM and 10 OAM) • 224 Meritorious awards • 59 Distinguished and Conspicuous awards This list also includes 49 Australians recognised for their contribution in support of Australia’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

These individuals will also be included in an ongoing and permanent COVID-19 Honour roll.

Contact: Rob Ayling, 0428 116 523, honours. media@gg.gov.au

QFES staff and volunteers honoured with Australia Day Awards • 88 Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) staff and volunteers will be honoured with Australia Day Achievement awards • Nambour ceremony held today, ceremonies in other regions postponed due to weather preparations Eighty-eight staff and volunteers from Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) are to be honoured at Australia Day Achievement Awards ceremonies for their significant contributions to fire and emergency services.

The awards recognise the ongoing work that is done by QFES personnel, both on the frontline and behind the scenes.

Twelve external organisations will also receive with Australia Day

Certificates of Appreciation for assistance during the 2023 bushfire season, exceptional support to SES volunteers and excellent mechanical service on QFES vehicles.

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Fire and Disaster Recovery Nikki Boyd: “QFES staff and volunteers dedicate their time to help Queenslanders prepare for and respond to disasters and emergencies,” Minister Boyd said.

“So much so that we have postponed the

award ceremonies so QFES personnel can be on-the-ground to support communities during this potential cyclone.

The award winners are helping deliver better emergency services and it’s an honour to recognise their service and dedication on behalf of all Queenslanders.

“Congratulations to all of our award recipients for supporting our communities when they need it most.”

Quotes attributable to QFES Acting Commissioner

Twelve external organisations will also receive with Australia Day Certificates of Appreciation for assistance during the 2023 bushfire season, exceptional support to SES volunteers and excellent mechanical service on QFES vehicles.

Stephen Smith: “The awards recognise achievements such as implementing the Australian Warning System in Queensland, being a Change Champion for the SES transition,

outstanding leadership during operations, and dedication to their service,” Acting Commissioner Smith said.

“The award recipients have exemplified QFES’ core values of respect, integrity, courage, loyalty and trust.

“Thank you to QSuper part of Australian Retirement Trust Fund for their ongoing support of the Australia Day Achievement Awards.”

Quotes attributable to Australian Retirement Trust Head of Government and Stakeholder Relationships Erick Cordero: “Those recognised in the awards are not only talented, but upstanding

members of their diverse, and often rural and remote, communities where many of our members live and work.

“Many of our members live rurally and remotely where QFES operates.

Through our support we not only honour those on the frontline, but the networks of people who ensure the ongoing safety and support of Queenslanders in times of crisis or emergency.”

Further information: Nambour’s award ceremony was held today, while the ceremonies in Cairns, Brisbane, Townsville, Beenleigh and Toowoomba have been postponed while QFES personnel undertake severe weather preparations.

New Beginnings Festival - A Global Celebration in the Heart of Sydney On Saturday 27th January 2024 the SSI New Beginnings Festival weighed anchor at the Australian National Maritime Museum in Sydney.

The festival is a celebration of hope, unity, and a new beginning. It aims to foster an inclusive society that promotes equal opportunities through arts and culture initiatives.

The Multicultural Festival, sponsored by the Australian Government’s Smartraveller saw over 7,000 people visit the event.

Anyone who felt inspired to travel overseas after visiting the festival are encouraged to make Smartraveller their first destination.

It provides Australians with the information they need to prepare and plan for their overseas trip and make informed choices.

This includes advice on passports, visas, and travel insurance through Call: (07) 3192 5188

The Smartraveller stall at the SSI New Beginnings Festival.

to detailed travel advice on over 175 destinations. It also offers essential resources in multiple languages.

“Smartraveller was a reliable guide for my first international trip in over 4 years. It helped with my overseas planning and took the stress out of reconnecting with friends and exploring new countries," said one festival goer.

Another festival goer commented that “Smartraveller made travelling with children for the first time to visit family overseas much easier. Their information was invaluable, providing practical guidance. It made sure we had a smooth and enjoyable trip for our family reunion."

Smartraveller’s travel tips for your future overseas adventures: • Research and confirm visa and entry requirements for your destination. Reach out to the relevant embassy or consulate for up-to-date

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information.

• Consult a doctor to learn about recommended vaccinations and health precautions for your destination.

Check your medication's legality and requirements.

• Don’t forget your travel insurance and make sure you read the fine print on your policy.

• Be aware of how dual nationality may affect your travel plans and consular services.

• Respect the laws of the country you're visiting, as they may differ from those in Australia.

• Be mindful of the culture and places of significance in the regions you explore.

This includes wearing appropriate clothing at places such as temples.

• Leave a copy of your travel itinerary and insurance details with someone back in Australia.

• If you don’t already have a passport allow six weeks to

renew or apply.

Future travellers are encouraged to read the Consular Services Charter on Smartraveller https:// www.smartraveller.gov.au/ consular-services/consularservices-charter.

It’s a great resource for understanding what the Australian Government can and cannot do to assist travellers overseas.

Travellers should align their travel insurance decisions with the advice level of their destination and the activities they are doing.

For more information about Smartraveller and to access their travel advice please visit https:// www.smartraveller.gov. au/consular-services/ communities A few images from the festival are below, to download these and other high-res images go to: https://multimedia.dfat. gov.au/fotoweb/albums/ ZbrToCzLSLdENK-2/

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2024 — 47

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