February 2022 - Online Edition

A Division of Qld Multicultural Times Print Post Approved PP : 424022 1724 | ISSN 2652-6182

Volume 18, Number 6 Saturday, February 12th, 2022

As God is One, we respect all Religions

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New Delhi: Lata Mangeshkar, the "nightingale of India" who gave her voice to Indian movies for more than 70 years, was honored at a state funeral Sunday, after she passed away at the age of 92. "Lata Di died at 8:12 a.m. due to multi-organ failure after over 28 days of Covid-19 diagnosis," Dr. Pratit Samdani, Mangeshkar's doctor, told reporters outside Breach Candy Hospital. Indian prime minister Narendra Modi paid his respects to Mangeshkar at the funeral, according to a post published from his verified Twitter account. Bollywood stars including Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan were seen at the wake, alongside cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, CNN affiliate CNN News-18 reported. CONTD. ON PG 8

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Inside

• Local News ..................................4-37 • Real Estate ................................14-18 • wwww ...................................... 26-27 • India News ..................................... 38 • Fiji News ......................................... 40 • Entertainment .............................. 42 • Health & Well Being .................... 44 • Business Directory/Classified ... 47 • Sports News ................................... 48

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 issue in “The year of the Tiger”, Happy Lunar New Year Everyone. Like their eponymous zodiac animal, people born in years of the Tiger are vigorous and ambitious, daring and courageous, enthusiastic and generous, self-confident with a sense of justice and a commitment to help others for the greater good. With February the first things that come in our mind are Valentine’s Day and Mahashivratri also falls at the end of February. The major festival celebrated in the month of February are: Vasant Panchami is celebrated on the fifth day of the month of Magha and from this day Vasant Ritu begins. Goddess Saraswati is worshiped on this day and is celebrated with great enthusiasm especially in eastern India. Various regions in the Indian subcontinent especially eastern parts of India, particularly in West Bengal and Bihar, it is celebrated as Saraswati Puja. Then we have Valentine’s Day, this year we have a special treat for everyone, Valentine’s Eve Musical event live on Australian Indian Radio’s Facebook page, every popular romantic number will be sung by Mithun and Bondita in a live show hosted by RJ Savi,

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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, 2022

do not miss out but join in with your loved ones on February the 13th at 6:00PM, you will be pleasantly surprised. This year, Indian Republic Day and Australia day celebrations were somewhat restrictive with some organisations opting for a virtual event, in FICQ’s calendar Indian

Republic Day is a major event, but in interest of public health the event was presented in a virtual mode. The flag raising at Indian consulate was attended by a small number of people, Honorary counsel for India in Queensland Mrs Archana Singh and Professor Sarva Daman Singh OAM spoke at the event. I was honoured and humbled to be invited as the main speaker at Jindalee Rotary Club’s Australia Day Citizenship ceremony where thirty-five new citizens were welcomed. The vent was very well organised and managed. Participants really enjoyed my talk, which was mainly the story of my humble beginning to where we are today. Hindu Society of Queensland celebrated its anniversary of 26th January and Vishnu Maya Mandir celebrated its Staphna Diwas on Sunday 23rd January. The actual date for Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir is also the 26th, last year a recommendation was made that anniversary should be celebrated on the Sunday closest to 26th. This was done so that devotes could take part in Australia Day celebrations on the 26th, and I believe that we should all take active part in Australia Day events, and we should do so with loyalty and pride. Congratulations to the recipients of Australia Day Awards – and all the receipts on OAM, and AM Awards, I would like to specially mention Dr Cuing Bui for receiving AM, well deserved and long time coming, he has done so much for the community over so many years and he keeps on keeping on, I am so pleased for him. He has had his fair share of challenges, but he kept soldiering on for his Vietnamese community and community at large. He has been unparalleled long-term leader of his community, such high respect and confidence for a leader in a community is worthy of praise and example for others. I am fortunate to have worked with him in the formation of Queensland Multicultural Council. Finishing off with wishing everyone all the best for upcoming Mahashivratri, stay safe and exercise care and observe all safety protocols. Until next month, Happy Reading. —Umesh Chandra OAM Publisher

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Student Visa Relaxations & Incentives Due to the labour shortages that the Australian economy is currently facing, the Australian Government has announced that effective immediately, Subclass 500 Student visa holders can work more than 40 hours per fortnight without being considered in breach of their visa conditions. This implies that the students have been currently granted unlimited work rights. Work Limitations (Condition 8105 Relaxed) 4Places a restriction on work hours to 40 hours per fortnight 4Students must not commence work till their course has commenced 4This condition has been temporarily removed implying that the students now have unlimited work rights and students can commence work immediately upon arrival There is no need to wait for the course to start. Other Conditions (Condition 8202 Remains In Force) 4must be enrolled in a full-time registered course; 4ensure satisfactory course attendance; and 4ensure satisfactory course progress. Student visa holders who fail to meet condition 8202 (due to missing classes, cancelling enrolment, or not having satisfactory course progress), will be in breach and could have their visa cancelled. Relaxation Time Limits The announced changes will be reviewed in April 2022 and Migration Guru will provide a further update around April 2022 Other Incentives – Student Visa Fee Refunds In an effort to encourage Student visa holders return to Australia as soon as possible, the Australian Government is offering a refund of the visa application charge for those who travel here between 19 January and 19 March 2022. An application for the refund can be made up until 31

December 2022. Student visas are on the list of eligible visa types for entry without needing a Travel Exemption. Applicants and holders must be able to prove their vaccination status by providing a Foreign Vaccination Certificate or evidence of Medical Exemption. Readers must note that Migration Guru has assisted a vast number of clients, in various and complex circumstances. Migration Guru has more than 80 years of collective experience in the industry and a team of Migration Agents / Solicitors. With our vast experience and skills, we are able to provide accurate migration or legal advice based on our clients’ personal circumstances. If you would like more information regarding your visa eligibility, applicable visa subclass, or next steps, Migration Guru can assist you in navigating this process. Unlike many other firms, the First Consultation at Migration Guru is completely free so that clients can get fair, accurate and upfront advise on their visa prospects. Our team may be contacted by via email on info at migrationguru.om.au or by calling 07 3036 3800. Readers are encouraged to follow us on Facebook for all the updates to Migration Law https://www.facebook.com/migrationguru/ Migration Guru Pty Ltd, Level 18, 127 Creek Street, Brisbane, QLD. Phone: 07 3036 3800 Migration Guru Pty Ltd, 31002, 27 Garden Street, Southport QLD. Phone: 07 5606 6160 Migration Guru Pty Ltd, Level 1, 162 Macquarie Street, Hobart TAS. Phone: 03 6281 8008 Migration Guru Pty Ltd, Level 5, 490 Northbourne Avenue, Dickson, ACT. Phone: 02 6109 9110 Migration Guru Pty Ltd, Suite 124, Level 1, 1 Queens Road, Melbourne, VIC. Phone 03 6240 1930 Migration Guru Pty Ltd, Suite 8, Star Tower, Shahupuri, Kolhapur, Maharashtra 416001, India Disclaimer: - The above article constitutes only generic information on migration issues, and does not constitute specific migration advice to any entity or individual.

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Appealing Adventure South options in New Zealand

By Rama Gaind

Fully vaccinated Australians are finally flying overseas after the end late last year of one of the most stringent COVID-19 travel bans in the world. Official advice is clear: as rules and regulations keep changing constantly, exercise extreme care when travelling, in this instance between Australia and New Zealand. Stringently follow advice about quarantine-free travel. Plan your post-pandemic trip with cautious optimism. If you’re not sure about where to go then maybe this suggestion will appeal – to The Land of the Long White Cloud. New Zealand’s leading adventure tour operator, Adventure South NZ, is offering new cycling tours and a kayak and hiking adventure. The trips are a wonderful way during which you have the time and space to really stop and take it all in because there is so much to see and do. Adventure South NZ General Manager, Phil Wyndham, says the new South Island itineraries are in addition to six latest cycling schedules on the North Island and new food-focussed cycle tours escorted by Helen Jackson. “The Kaikoura and Molesworth High Country Cycle itinerary is hugely appealing. It combines wildlife and natural beauty with some wonderful downtime experiences. Being one of the first to ride a new cycle trail before chilling out at a

wine tasting lunch, cycling through remote high country dominated by big skies and even bigger peaks and staying in an exclusive mountain lodge all ensure that travellers are experiencing the region differently.” Phil elaborates on why going to the South Island is special: “The surprising thing about this trip is that it’s often the visits to Fox or Franz Josef Glaciers, the overnight Milford Sound Cruise or the days spent exploring Aoraki Mt Cook village which get folks to book, yet so often the highlights they subsequently rave about are the remote river we pull over for a refreshing swim, the small country pub we enjoy a hearty feed or the simply just skimming stones at Lake Wanaka.” Active adventure There will be some aspects of this trip that will appeal to active adventurers, with special attention given to detail in the timetables for the destinations they visit. The highlights are many, but the decisions will suit individual tastes and the options are numerous. If you like the Kaikoura and Molesworth High Country, then you’ll find the scenic wine regions and surreal mountain landscapes to be delightful in the Northern Canterbury and Marlborough districts. Go on a seven-day exploration by bike and foot of the scenic Kaikoura Peninsula and hinterland. Alternatively, the South Island Hike and Kayak tour is packed full of stunning scenery with the jaw-dropping backdrops of the Southern Alps and several of New Zealand's national parks. It all starts with the first traverse of the alps as the group heads across from Christchurch to the West Coast, stopping along the way for a trek to the first of many beautiful waterfalls. Reaching the West Coast at

Punakaiki, in the shadow of the Paparoa National Park, you'll enjoy two of the park's highlights, the Truman Track and the uniquely formed Pancake Rocks. The third new addition to the company’s South Island adventures is the new 12day South Island Hike and Kayak, which showcases some of the best day walking and kayaking in the Southern Alps. This tour’s highlights are as varied as kayaking amongst 70 species of wading bird in the Westland National Park, hiking in the national parks around Queenstown and amongst active glaciers on the Rob Roy glacier track and cruising on the Milford Sound. Remote adventures mean social distancing comes naturally and guided group sizes are strictly limited to a maximum of 14 people. COVID-19 safety measures are in place with extra cleaning and hygiene protocols. It is never too early to begin preparing for your next trip. Carefully coordinate your plans now because “some places can’t be rushed.”

Views of the Kaikoura Peninsula.

Stunning views over Lake Wananaka on the South Island hike and kayak tour.

Hiking in the Bay of Islands.

EXPENSIVE HONOUR

Pastor Suresh Dass Joseph josephdass@optusnet.com.au

Dear reader, it is with much joy we bring to you the word of God. I would like to talk about honouring people God has placed in our lives. The scripture tells us to honour all people, including those who have authority over us. This means we are to honour our government, our boss, and parents. We should look for opportunities to bring honour in our conversations, in the way

we treat people at home, at work. When you see someone doing a good job, honour them by letting them know what a good job they are doing. Give them credits in front of their coworkers. That’s showing honour. Sometimes the person we are honouring, may not deserve it. You may not like that boss. Your spouse doesn’t look like they deserve to be honoured. You must remember that by honouring others, you are not doing them a favour, but you are doing it to yourself. When you show honour, a commanded blessing is released back into your life. Honouring that person behind you at the supermarket, by letting them go before you, obeying that police officer controlling traffic, instead of complaining, are ways we can honour others. In the scriptures

4 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022

(Matthew 26 v 6-10, Luke 7 v 36-50), a religious leader invited Jesus for a meal at his house. A woman known to be a notorious sinner came with a jar of costly perfume and sat behind Jesus. She then began to weep and wash His feet with her tears, wipe them with her hair, and anointed them with the costly perfume. The religious leaders and the disciples were not happy. The religious leader said to himself, “This Man if He were a prophet, would know that this woman who is touching him is a sinner. Others said she was wasting the costly perfume, which could have been sold for a profit and given to the poor. But Jesus said to the homeowner, “Do you see this woman? I entered your house; you gave me no water for My feet, but she has washed My feet with her tear, wiped them with her hair, and anointed them

with fragrant oil.” Here are 3 things we can learn from this woman. 1) Some people showed no honour to Jesus. When Jesus came to His town, He could not do any miracles because of their unbelief. They thought, “there’s nothing special about Him. We grew up with Him. He is the carpenter’s son. Jesus went on to say, “a prophet is honoured everywhere except in his hometown and among his relatives.” In the same way, where there is no honour, there will be no miracles. Scriptures tell us to honour our mother and our father and wives are to honour their husbands. Honour is one of the greatest needs of a husband. As a wife, you may say the right thing, but if it is told in a dishonourable way, he will not hear what you are saying. This can cause hurt in relationships. But when there is honour and respect

in a relationship, it will keep the relationship from any damage. 2) The religious leader showed some honour by inviting Jesus to his house. But he held back from fully honouring Jesus by not giving Him any water to wash His feet, no towel to wipe them, and no oil to anoint His head. His honour was cheap and stingy. It is easy to fall into this trap thinking that somebody else could receive more honour than you. But you must understand that showing honour to others is not a sign of weakness. It takes a strong person to honour someone else, weather in a supermarket, letting someone else get before you, or in a carpark, allowing another person to take that parking spot. And you have, to know that honouring others will not decrease you. 3) The woman brought

costly fragrant oil, which shows that her honour was costly. She sat behind Jesus preferring Him to have that special place of honour. In return Jesus said to her, “Your sins are forgiven, your faith has saved you.” This shows that the amount of honour we show others will be directly related to the amount of God’s favour we will see. Instead of holding back that honour, let’s be kinder, more respectful to others, and show honour. When someone is disrespectful, let’s not treat them the same way, but treat them the way you would like them to become. When you prioritize to show honour wherever you go, then God promises all will be well with you. Being honourable to others opens the door for you to receive honour and a live long, satisfied, and blessed life. God bless you

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Mahashivarathri – Opening the eye of vision Sadhguru, Isha Foundation

Shiva has always been referred to as Triambaka because he has a third eye. The third eye is the eye of vision. The two physical eyes are just sensory organs. They feed the mind with all kinds of nonsense because what

you see is not the truth. You see this person or that person and you think something about him, but you are not able to see the Shiva in him. These two eyes do not really see the truth. So another eye, an eye of deeper penetration,

has to be opened up. In this country, in this tradition, knowing does not mean reading books, listening to somebody’s talks or gathering information from here and there. Knowing means opening up a new vision into life. So if true knowing has to happen, your third eye has to open up. If this eye of vision is not opened, if we are limited to just the sensory eye, there is no possibility of Shiva. On Mahashivarathri, somehow nature is bringing that possibility very close. It is possible everyday, it is not that we have to wait for this particular day. But on this day, nature makes it more available to you because the planetary positions are such that the energy especially in the northern hemisphere of the planet makes it very

easy for a person to raise his energies upward. So one of the prescriptions for this day is, you do not lie down in horizontal positions. You are required to remain in vertical positions. Just remaining vertical is not sufficient. If we can keep ourselves in such a state that we are not ourselves

and instead allow Him to be, if you become like that, then the possibility of opening up a new vision into life and looking at life with total clarity is possible. Any amount of thinking and philosophizing will never bring clarity into your mind. Anybody can distort the logical clarity

that you create. Difficult situations can completely put it into turmoil. Only when vision opens up, only when you have an inner vision, will there be perfect clarity. Nobody and no situation in the world can distort this clarity within you. So Mahashivarathri is an opportunity for you to become a Triambaka, for you to open up your third eye and a new vision for yourself. That is the possibility on this day. Ranked amongst the fifty most influential people in India, Sadhguru is a yogi, mystic, visionary and bestselling author. Sadhguru has been conferred the "Padma Vibhushan", India’s highest annual civilian award, by the Government of India in 2017, for exceptional and distinguished service.

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Australia Day 2022 Honours List The Governor-General today announced Honours to 1040 Australians, including awards in the Order of Australia (General and Military Divisions), meritorious awards and recognition for distinguished and conspicuous service in the Australian Defence Force. Of the 732 awards in the General Division of the Order of Australia, the highest ever percentage (47 per cent) are for women and 45 per cent are for service to local communities. ”Congratulations to the outstanding Australians recognised in today’s Honours List. Collectively the recipients, whose achievements span community service, science and research, industry, sport, the arts and more, represent the strength and diversity of Australia.

732 awards in the General Division of the Order of Australia, the highest ever percentage (47 per cent) are for women and 45 per cent are for service to local communities. “It has been a challenging couple of years and the recipients announced today are a reminder and reflection of the richness of spirit, selflessness and good in our community. “The fact that the list includes the highest ever percentage of women is

very encouraging and I look forward to this positive trend continuing. We will continue to increase awareness and encourage nominations for people from parts of our community that have been historically underrepresented. “To the individuals being celebrated today; thank you for your contribution to Australia and congratulations on being recognised by your peers and your nation. “To all Australians, please consider nominating someone outstanding from your community for recognition in the Order of Australia. The Order belongs to each of us and we each have a part to play. The only way a person can be recognised is for someone to nominate them. In addition to the 732 recipients of awards in the

General Division of the Order of Australia (7 AC, 25 AO, 155 AM and 545 OAM), today’s Honours list includes: 430 recipients of awards in the Military Division of the Order of Australia (3 AO, 16 AM and 11 OAM) 4197 meritorious awards 481 Distinguished and Conspicuous awards This list also includes 58 Australians recognised for their contribution in support of Australia’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. These individuals, recipients of awards in the General Division of the Order of Australia, Meritorious Awards and Military Awards will also be included in an ongoing and permanent COVID-19 Honour roll. More information about the Order of Australia is available at www.gg.gov.au.

Australian Honours and Awards Overview The Australian Honours and Awards system recognises the outstanding service and contributions of Australians. Recipients come from right across the country and from all walks of life. While some are well-known, the majority are unsung heroes. While typically they haven’t sought thanks or recognition, they deserve both. The Honours and Awards system gives the nation a chance to celebrate and acknowledge those who work tirelessly to improve local communities and to make Australia a better place. Any Australian can nominate someone for an award. Nominations are assessed by the Honours and Awards Secretariat, considered by the Council of

the Order of Australia before recommendations are made to the Governor-General. The Australian Honours and Awards system includes: 4The Order of Australia 4Meritorious Awards 4Military Awards; and 4Bravery decorations. How to nominate someone for an award Anyone can nominate someone to be recognised through the Order of Australia. To complete a nomination, you will need: 4Their name, age and contact details 4To explain why they are deserving of award, including details of their actions of service 4To provide details of up to four referees to support the nomination.

India honors singer Lata Mangeshkar... CONTD. FROM PG 1 The mortal remains of Bollywood singer Lata Mangeshkar, draped in the national flag, during her funeral ceremony at Shivaji Park in Mumbai on 06, February 2022. The Indian government has ordered two days of national mourning for the late singer. The national flag will be flown at halfstaff from Sunday through Monday, India's Ministry of Home Affairs said in a statement Sunday. "There will be no official entertainment," the ministry added. Mangeshkar was a playback singer -- providing music to be mimed by actors -- for innumerable Indian movies. Her soft voice, which could attain a high pitch with an unsurpassable ease became a part of almost every Indian household. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was "anguished beyond words." "The kind and caring Lata Didi (sister) has left us. She leaves a void in our nation that cannot be filled," he wrote on Twitter Sunday. "The coming generations will remember her as a stalwart of Indian culture, whose melodious voice had an unparalleled ability to mesmerise people." Bollywood actors and Indian politicians paid tribute to the late star Sunday. "How can one forget such a voice! Deeply saddened by the passing away of Lata Mangeshkar ji, my sincere condolences and prayers," wrote actor Akshay Kunar on Twitter. MP for the opposition Congress party Rahul Gandhi also offered his condolences in a tweet. "She

remained the most beloved voice of India for many decades," he said. "Her golden voice is immortal and will continue to echo in the hearts of her fans." Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan also paid homage to the singer in a tweet. "With the death of Lata Mangeshkar the subcontinent has lost one of the truly great singers the world has known. Listening to her songs has given so much pleasure to so many

8 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022

people all over the world." From the age of 5, Mangeshkar began training with her father in classical Indian music. Her father, Deenanath Mangeshkar, was an accomplished classical singer and stage actor. His daughter began her career by singing at his musical plays. Mangeshkar performed in public for the first time when she was just 9 years old and recorded her first song at the age of 13. A

month after she recorded her first song, her father died. Left to support four younger siblings and her mother, Mangeshkar began to work in the Indian film industry. At first, music directors dismissed her, saying her voice was too thin and sharp. By 1948, she was lending her voice to half a dozen movies. Voice of the movies Mangeshkar was born on September, 28, 1929 in Madhya Pradesh. Due to her

father's reputation in the classical music scene, she was introduced to several composers, like Aman Ali Khan, who mentored and trained her for several years. As her career took off, Mangeshkar delivered consecutive hits which made her one of the most sought after playback singers in the country. In Indian movies, it is standard practice for a music director to insert eight to 10 songs that play out in synchronization with the film plot. Singers like Mangeshkar were hired to record the songs in advance and to which actors would lip sync or a sequence would play out on screen. Unlike Hollywood, where artists record albums and that music is procured for a particular movie, in India, singers generate music and lyrics for the movie exclusively. Her break came in 1949 with the movie, "Mahal," for which she sang the tumultuously famous song, "Aayega Aanewala." She won her first filmfare award for the song, "Aaja Re Pardesi" in the movie, "Madhumati" in 1958 and her first national film award in 1973 for the song, "Beeti Na Bitai" in the movie "Parichay." She gave her voice to the music and lyrics penned by great composers and lyricists of the time like Madan Mohan, R.D. Burman, Gulzar and A.R. Rahman. Music directors stalled their projects to accommodate her tight schedule and composers wrote their music with her voice in mind. She also sang, "Aye Mere Watan Ke Logon," a song

meant to inspire the people of the country after the Indo-China war in 1963. It became an anthem with Mangeshkar beseeched with requests for it at every concert. In 2001, she was awarded the Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian honor in India. She was also awarded the Padma Vibushan in 1999, the second-highest civilian award in India. Mangeshkar has performed in over five languages for different movie industries within India. In an interview with a news channel in 2009, Mangeshkar expressed one regret. "I was very keen to become a classical singer. But when I began work, I had so many responsibilities that I could not pay attention to classical music. I did not have time to practice," she said. Mangeshkar lent her voice to more than 1,300 movies and sang over 25,000 songs. Her music has been used in Hollywood films like "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind," "Life of Pi," "Lion" and "The Hundred-Foot Journey." Over the past two decades, Mangeshkar had slowly reduced her workload to just a couple of movies a year. Preferring to stay out of the limelight, she rarely spoke about her personal life. In an in interview, Mangeshkar was once asked what contributed to her success as a playback singer. "Natural talent contributes about 75% and the rest is hard work, practice and eatingdrinking restrictions," she said. "I don't do the restrictions ... I have just been singing all my life."

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022 — 9

Brisbane’s volunteering superheroes recognised at 2022 Lord Mayor’s Australia Day awards 25 January 2022: A brave resident who fought off and pinned down his neighbour’s knife-wielding attacker and a veteran of volunteering are two of 26 inspiring Lord Mayor’s Australia Day Award recipients. Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said 2022 award winners had a combined total of over 615 years of volunteering in the Brisbane community. “Every year, the Australia Day Awards show that Brisbane no shortage of people who go above and beyond, such as our Spirit of Brisbane Award recipient, Ben Cannon,” Cr Schrinner said. “In August last year, Ben woke early one morning to his neighbours screams and without hesitation ran to help. He bravely tackled a knife-wielding assailant and held him down until police arrived, staying to ensure the family’s children were safe. “Ben has rightly been recognised as a local hero, who also volunteers his time by coaching at his son’s local

football club and helps raise funding for Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Foundation.” Cr Schrinner said Citizen of the Year Bruce Sinclair has volunteered for more than half a century across many different community groups including Taringa History Group, the Toowong and District Historical Society (TDHS), National Seniors, the Brisbane Tramways Museum, QLD Omnibus and Coach Society, and the Australian Railway Historical Society. “The pandemic didn’t put a stop to Bruce’s giving spirit and when the pandemic affected traditional ANZAC Day commemorations, he helped deliver a COVID-19 friendly ANZAC ceremony in Toowong.” “For Young Citizen of the Year Jeremy Hunt, studying a full-time medical degree didn’t stop him from founding The VacSeen Project in February last year to give people experiencing homelessness free access to the flu vaccine. “As part of The VacSeen Project, he collaborated with

local GPs and pharmacies to purchase vaccines at lower costs to support the initiative, providing 200 free flu vaccines for the Inclusive Health and Brisbane Youth Service clients.” Cr Schrinner said this year’s awards received 84 nominations and featured a new category acknowledging

an Outstanding Philanthropist, with Buddha’s Light International Association Queensland (BLIAQ) Chairperson Yuan Fu taking out the award. “In 2003, Yuan helped to establish the BLIAQ Loving care Group, which has donated to more than 100 charities including the

Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital Foundation, The Mater Foundation, Queensland Institute of Medical Research, QPAC as well as multiple local schools, charities and community groups,” he said. “She has also donated to charities and disaster reliefs across Australia and the world, including Taiwan, China, Indonesia and Japan and really showcases Brisbane’s phenomenal giving spirit.” The awards also recognised outstanding individuals and groups working to improve the environment, sports, community events and culture and arts, with the recipients to be recognised at a COVID-Safe ceremony in City Hall in March. 2022 Lord Mayor’s Australia Day Award winners: • Citizen of the Year: Bruce Sinclair • Joint Senior Citizen of the Year: Roslyn Broom • Joint Senior Citizen of the Year: Desmond Broom

• Young Citizen of the Year: Jeremy Hunt • Community Event of the Year: Bracken Ridge Central Lions Club – Miniature Steam Train Day • Sports Award: Tony Elliot • Cultural/Arts Award: Graham Evans • Green Heart Award: Noel Standfast • Corporate Citizen of the Year Award: Peggy Flannery • Outstanding Philanthropist: Yuan Fu • Spirit of Brisbane Award: Ben Cannon Achievement Awards: • Jenny Hacker • Peter Branagan Glenys Petrie and John Quinn • Graham Smith • Faye Lawson • Barry and Lis Foat • Mohamed Farouk Adam • Leigh Chamberlain • Peter Bowden • Daniel Walker • Marianne Smith • Margaret Powell • Ben Tibben • Elizabeth Nunn • Robyn Nalder

Brisbane City Council hosts a mega citizenship ceremony BRISBANE 26th of January the Brisbane City Council hosted a mega citizenship ceremony at the royal International Convention centre in Brisbane show ground which is situated at 600 Gregory Terrace in Bowen hills. The mega citizenship ceremony saw 800 new citizens receiving their citizenships certificates at the royal International Convention centre in Brisbane show grounds. Brisbane City Council normally hosts this citizenship ceremony at the Brisbane City Hall which I must say is the nice venue because it has got its own charm but looking at the numbers that were receiving their citizenship on the day, it was decided to shift it to the royal international Convention Centre ,well of course there were over 1000 people because they were 800 new citizens plus their guests so the whole event was run in a COVID safe manner and it was done very properly of course the normal VIP reception was held in a separate room and invited guests were in the end asked to enjoy the fireworks on the main arena of Brisbane show ground at the conclusion of the ceremony. It was a wonderful event arranged by Brisbane City Council and it was good to see that many people came forward even under the COVID conditions but you know as it was operating under a COVID safe plan 10 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022

people felt safe, there was a very long queue to get in because everyone had to show their vaccination certificate they had to do the government check in as well so after doing all that then people were taken in, now of course it is a huge auditorium which was transformed into this stage and of course it's dresses are very well it is a very good venue, very large venue. The new citizens and their guests were escorted into the main arena while the invited VIPs attended the pre ceremony refreshments in a separate room, after the VIP reception the VIP guests were escorted to their reserved area in the main arena, the event began with a welcome to country which was held in a hybrid manner so there was an audio video presentation and of course live performances by members of the NuNukal group an after the welcome to country Lord Mayor welcomed everyone and he conducted the citizenship ceremony, Trevor Evan MPs also delivered a message from the federal Government and the event concluded with a fireworks out in the main arena, the invited guests of Australia day citizenship ceremony were encouraged to attend and celebrate in the main area of Brisbane Show grounds at the conclusion of the ceremony where the fireworks display took place.

57a Kenmore Road, Kenmore QLD 4069 | www.brisbanedurgatemple.com

MAHA SHIVARATHRI st 1 March 2022 – Tuesday (PM) 6.00 – Nithya (Daily) Puja 6.00 to 7.00 – Bhajans

1st Jamam Puja

2nd Jamam Puja

7.00pm – Abishekam, Rudra Japam 8.00pm - Maha Arathi,

11.00pm- Abishekam Shiva Puranam Recital

Shiva Trishati Panchamukha Archana

12.00pm – Lingothbhava Kala Puja

3rd Jamam Puja

4th Jamam Puja

1.00am – Abishekam 2.00am - Maha Arathi

3.00am - Abishekam 4.00am - Maha Arathi

Devotees can perform Jalabishekam for Sri Vishwanatha Shivalinga between: (AM) 9.30-11 ; (PM) 5.00 onwards Sponsorship for Jamam Puja is open to all devotees at $101/family. Devotees unable to attend can transfer to the bank details below; Name: SVDT BSB: 084-399 Acc: 779 294 865 For booking & further enquiries please contact Gurrukal at 04 3198 1998 Thank you. Call: (07) 3192 5188

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022 — 11

BrisAsia Festival is back with a bang EVENTS LISTING Date

Event

Details

Time & Location

Cost

28 and 29 January 2022

Vietnamese Lunar New Year

Experience the most popular and important holiday festival in Vietnam, Hoi cho Tet. Following the Lunisolar Calendar this traditional event celebrates the arrival of spring in the Northern hemisphere and the Vietnamese New Year with fun family activities, food stalls, lion dances, firecrackers, traditional music performances, a traditional costume parade and a martials art performance by Calligraphy.

5– 0pm

Free

Esports is not just about the players. Come join us in these interactive workshops to transform your passion and love for all things gaming into the perfect career in this growing industry.

4–6pm

EVENINGS with Kelly Higgins Divine & Ashwin Segkar

Join ABC presenters Kelly Higgins-Devine and Ashwin Segkar as they celebrate the start of BrisAsia Festival 2022 with a live broadcast featuring performances, interviews and discussions with festival artists, creatives, chefs and more.

7–9pm

BrisAsia Beats: May Lyn & Friends

Enjoy an evening under the stars with producer, singer and songwriter May Lyn, whose sincere lyrics and distinctive voice are backed by carefully crafted grooves and lush atmospheric textures. This BrisAsia Beats event is presented in partnership with QPAC.

5:30–7:30pm

5 February

BrisAsia Launch Party

It’s the Year of the Tiger, so let’s step out and celebrate together. BrisAsia Festival Launch Party for 2022 will be a pulsating cultural spectacular full of light, colour and movement featuring live performances, DJs, dance, fashion and more.

6–8pm Fortitude Valley Hall

Free

6 February

BrisAsia Fashion Forum

Join Fashion Director Liz Golding with a stellar line up of Asian and Indigenous designers for this intimate panel discussion. Learn how their cultural heritage has informed and inspired their craft and design. A wonderful opportunity to get up close to some of the masterminds behind the leading labels Akira, Dogstar, Anannasa and Native Swimwear.

2–4pm

$45

1-3 February

Brisbane’s biggest cultural event, BrisAsia Festival, returns with a packed program of events to celebrate the Lunar New Year. The enhanced offering features more than 50 events across 10 suburbs that fuse Asian art, culture and cuisine with live performances by internationally acclaimed artists, outdoor festivities, and intimate cultural encounters. Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the festival, held from 1-20 February, provides a fantastic opportunity to participate and be part of Brisbane’s evolving cultural story. “The much-loved BrisAsia Festival has an incredible array of events on offer, and we are really proud that we can offer such an extensive program for residents to enjoy,” Cr Schrinner said. “At a time when international travel may not be on the radar for most people, it’s a delight to be able to bring a taste of Asia to Brisbane and celebrate the rich diversity of our community. “The three-week long festivities include the dazzling BrisAsia Festival Launch Party which coincides with Lunar New Year on 4 February, and will celebrate the Year of the Tiger, promoting strength, courage, and wisdom through a vibrant mix of live music, dance and cultural performances. “From the city to the suburbs BrisAsia Festival’s 2022 program marks a new era for the festival with new experiences including hip hop, luxury car and food truck event Southside by Night, the first ever dedicated tea festival The Laneway Tea Festival, digital storytelling initiative Mother’s Table, a special Valentine’s Day event BrisAsia Love Songs, a new music and healing initiative Satsang - Sacred Gathering and we’ll see some of our finest Asian designers showcased through BrisAsia Fashion. “This year’s festival will also see the return of some festival favourites including Rare Voices celebrating

3 February

4 February

sounds and voices from across the Asian region, BrisAsia LIVE, the cuttingedge multidisciplinary arts residency and showcase, Summer Party celebrating Asian pop culture and dance and BrisAsia Stories an initiative designed to explore Brisbane’s evolving cultural identity, delivered in partnership with Museum of Brisbane.” Cr Shrinner said community and cultural events like BrisAsia Festival, are an important part in helping boost the local economy as we deal with the ongoing impacts of the coronavirus pandemic. “It's been another tough year for many industries, including the arts, and Council worked hard to deliver more than 150 festivals for residents in 2021 as part of a $3.62 million commitment to cultural programs across the city,” he said. “Last year BrisAsia Festival employed 176 creatives and supported 318 jobs, helping to stimulate the local economy and boost the creative sector. “We are delivering BrisAsia Festival in line with Queensland Health’s safety guidelines with enhanced safety measures and cleaning in place across all venues and QR codes used to assist with contract tracing. “Many events require bookings, and tickets will be limited so I encourage residents to get in early to secure a spot.” For the full BrisAsia Festival program and other events, visit Brisbane City Council and search ‘BrisAsia’.

12 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022

New Waves

BrisAsia Fashion Festival Parade 6 February

CJ Greenfield Sports Complex Free

SAE Institiute, West End Free

ABC Studio – On-Air Free

QPAC Melbourne Street Green

Fortitude Music Hall

5–8pm

BrisAsia Beats: Chong Ali & Friends

BrisAsia Beats presents local hip hop legend Chong Ali, an artist with a fluid yet gritty flow who writes love letters to his neighbourhood and its people through his music. This event is presented in partnership with The Zoo.

6–8:30pm

$15

6 February

BrisAsia Dance

Are you ready to rumble? Watch the best of the best dancers on stage at BrisAsia Dance, Brisbane’s freshest street dance event.

4–8pm Queen Street Mall Stage, Brisbane City

Free

11 February

Southside by Night

A one-of-a-kind car meet to show off Brisbane’s best rides. From Luxury Euros, JDM’s to Exotics, you’ll feel like you’ve pulled up to a Vin Diesel movie. With top DJ’s and artists plus real street food from the community, we’re giving Brisbane’s underground the shine they deserve.

5–9pm Unidus Community Centre

Free

11 February

BrisAsia Beats: Menaka & Friends

BrisAsia Beats presents live music in the Queen Street Mall, featuring a selection of local artists as part of BrisAsia Festival. Hailing from a musical family deeply rooted in South Indian (Carnatic) music, Menaka’s music explores the fusion of Indian music with influences from all over the world.

4:30–5:30pm

Free

11 February

Wer Ya From?

Wer ya from? No, not the suburb, where are you really from? Join us for an improvised show based on hilarious true stories of heritage and culture, as told by Big Fork Theatre's Improv in Colour improvisers who are as diverse as these hashtags: #KDrama #ChickenAdobo #SingaporeSling #CricketInColombo #RelaxLah

7:30–8:30pm Big Fork Theatre Company

$20

12 February

BrisAsia Stands Up

A stacked line up celebrating the immense talent and unique voices of Brisbane’s Asian Australian comedians. Featuring our city’s finest comedians including Ashwin Segkar, Ting Lim, Sandeep Totlani, Jo Gowda, MJ Wong and Michael Cho. These local comedy legends are ready to tear up the stage at BrisAsia Stands Up!

5:30–8:30pm

$20

12 February

BrisAsia Laneway Tea Festival

A BeauTeaful one day festival dedicated to Brisbane’s best tea makers. Taking over Fish Lane, the inaugural BrisAsia Laneway Tea Festival will see the city’s best tea makers come together for a very-tasty day. For the first time, you will be able to taste all kinds of teas from different exhibitors all in one place, including everyone’s favourite Asian drink, boba—bubble tea! To round out the fun, there will be markets, tea workshops and tastings as well as tunes and bands sound-tracking the festivities from midday into the evening.

11am–8pm Fish Lane, South Brisbane

Free

13 February

BrisAsia LOVE Songs

Celebrate Valentine’s Day at the magical Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens with BrisAsia Love Songs, a musical journey featuring loves songs and passionate musical improvisations from across the globe. Featuring an exotic blend of singers and musicians from diverse styles and cultures the event will be the perfect setting to share a romantic interlude with your beloved. Pack your picnic blanket, bubbles and settle in for a free sunset serenade.

5:30–7:30pm Ampitheatre, Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens, Toowong

Free

17 February

BrisAsia LIVE HYPNOTICA Open Rehearsal

BrisAsia Live is the festival hub for cutting edge cross-disciplinary collaboration and creative innovation. Based at the iconic Brisbane Powerhouse the residency responds to our sector’s growing appetite for meaningful intercultural arts experiences that generate new work, tell new stories and shape new creative and cultural destinies for our creative sector.

12 noon–1pm Brisbane Powerhouse

Free

18 February

BrisAsia LIVE HYPNOTICA Live Performance

The BrisAsia Festival is proud present the premier performance of Hypnotica. Drawing inspiration from the sounds and rhythms of traditional Sundanese music the live performance will feature traditional Indonesian musician Efiq Zulfiqar, experimental percussionist Yvette Agapow, circus artist/physical performer Mayu Moto, violinist Flora Wong, guitarist/composer Dr Anthony Garcia and local emerging artists.

5:30–6:30pm Brisbane Powerhouse

Free

18 February

Aussie K-Poppers United

Witness the addictive melodies, slick choreography and high production values of our local K-POP crews as they showcase this truly global phenomenon.

5:30–9pm Southbank Piazza, South Brisbane

Free

19 February

Summer Party

What better way to send off summer than partying at Summer Party with non-stop entertainment! For all our Asian pop culture lovers out there, this event will be a jam-packed afternoon of e-Gaming, Asian Pop music, cosplay and dance. Watch South Bank light up as we celebrate Asian -pop culture and all things tech like never before!

3–8pm Southbank Piazza, South Brisbane

Free

19 February

Rare Voices

Rare Voices is a rich celebration of vocal traditions from across the Asian region. The concert will feature internationally acclaimed singers and renowned instrumentalists presenting intimate traditional songs, pulsating world rhythms, contemporary indi pop music and hypnotic collective improvisations.

7-9:30pm SunPAC 470 McCullough St, Sunnybank QLD

Adult $15 + Booking Fee Concession/ child $10 + Booking Fee Family (2 adults / 2 childrens) $40 + Booking Fee

20 February

BrisAsia Beats: QUIVR DJs in Winn Lane #02

Enjoy an afternoon of music curated by local artists from QUIVR’s DJ community in one of Fortitude Valley’s iconic laneways. This BrisAsia Beats event is presented in partnership with QUIVR and Winn Lane.

12-6pm Winn Lane, Fortitude Valley

Free

20 February

Satsang Sacred Gathering

Be transported to a place of inner harmony and wellbeing through this wonderful music and healing initiative. Satsang is a sacred gathering of musicians and healers from diverse cultural traditions and backgrounds. The program will include guided meditation, musical performances and conclude with a community gathering supported by local northside food sellers.

4–6pm Fitzgibbon Community Centre

Free

1-28 February

Mother’s Table

Mother’s Table is a mini documentary series produced for BrisAsia Festival featuring local restaurant owners Maggie Nguyen, Mie Mie Wing Kee, and Taro Akimoto. Learn about the families and stories behind the restaurants and dishes that have shaped Brisbane’s culinary landscape! Produced in partnership with SAE, Cafe O-Mai, Mamaku Street Food and Taro’s Ramen.

Digital instillation

Free

The Zoo

Queen Street Mall stage

Big Fork Theatre Company

HELPING YOU GET THE HOME YOU WANT Chat to Nitin Puri, your local Home Finance Manager: 0457 517 732 npuri@westpac.com.au Westpac Aspley 1374 Gympie Road, Aspley

Credit provided by Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141 AFSL and Australian credit licence 233714.

Call: (07) 3192 5188

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WBC01628-0321

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022 — 13

PRD Major City Metro Update 1st Half 2022 INTRODUCTION This Brisbane market update report divides the city into the inner-ring (0-5km from the city), middle-ring (5-10km from the city), and outer-ring (10-20km from the city). It provides a comprehensive and in-depth analysis of each specified market and a holistic picture of property conditions in each area. The Brisbane market saw exponential growth particularly in the middle-ring with its median house price sitting at $910K, a growth of 36.8% from 2017. There is now a distinctively different house market between the inner and outer rings, with premium pricing of $1.1M and above dominating the inner-ring (64.2%) and the most affordable bracket of less than $800K dominating the outerring (69.3%). Rental prices for houses have strengthened particularly in the middle-ring, whereas unit rental prices have grown the most in the outer-ring as working from home becomes the norm. All this is in conjunction with record low vacancy rates, particularly in the outer-ring which recorded 1.1%.

Key

Brisbane CBD Inner: 0-5km Middle: 5-10km Outer: 10-20km

Hobart The Hobart market has seen outstanding price growth across both rings over the past five years. Despite strong absorption rates of listings in 2021, a decrease in sales volume since 2017 indicates low levels of supply. This is fuelling strong price growth. Despite increasing growth in rental prices, rental yields have compressed over

Sydney Sydney has seen strong price growth across all three rings, with the median house prices for both inner and middle rings sitting above $2.5M. Median house price growth in 2021 more than made up for the negative trend seen since 2017, pushing prices to their highest levels

14 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022

Melbourne Melbourne’s house market has seen exceptional growth between 2017-2021, particularly in the inner-ring which recorded a growth of 12.0%. The outer-ring market recorded the most modest growth and is the place to be for affordable stock, with 53.4% of sales under $900K. There are signs of recovery in the unit inner-ring as a shift back to living in the city is starting to become evident. Vacancy rates in all rings have declined towards the Real Estate Institute of Australia’s healthy benchmark of 3.0%, with vacancy rates in the inner-ring declining sharply by -3.4%. Investor confidence will be restored as rental demand is starting to increase in the inner-ring, which will be further pushed up with international borders reopening.

$1,400,000

40,000

$1,200,000

35,000 30,000

$1,000,000

25,000

$800,000

20,000 $600,000

15,000

$400,000

10,000

$200,000 $0

2021# Median Sale Price

House Sales

Brisbane The Brisbane market saw exponential growth particularly in the middlering. Its median house price sat at $910K, a growth of 36.8% from 2021. There is now a distinctively a different house market between the inner and outer rings, with premium pricing of $1.1M and above dominating the innerring (64.2%) and the most affordable bracket of less than $800K dominating the outerring (69.3%). House rental prices have strengthened particularly in the middlering, whereas unit rental prices have grown the most in the outer-ring, as working from home becomes a norm. All this is in conjunction with record low vacancy rates, particularly in the outer-ring which recorded 1.1%.

average vendor premiums to purchase a property have been increasing sharply to an all-time high in 2021. Whether you’re thinking of selling, buying or renting, whether you’re a first home buyer, investor, or informer in the property industry, the PRD Major City Metro Update 1st Half 2022 reports provide key statistical information whatever your needs.

BRISBANE HOUSE SALES 2017-2021 #

Median House Price

Summary of Findings

ever. The average number of days to sell both houses and units in all rings dropped significantly in 2021 and the average vendor discounts turned to premiums. The current Sydney house and unit markets favours sellers heavily. Sydney vacancy rates across the board have declined to a much healthier level than during the initial outbreak of COVID-19 in early 2020, closer to the Real Estate Institute of Australia’s healthy benchmark of 3.0%.

•

Inner: $1,266,000

•

Middle: $910,000

•

Outer: $655,000

2017-2021 Price Growth •

Inner: +36.1% (+$336,000)

•

Middle: +36.8% (+$245,000)

•

Outer: +21.3% (+$115,000)

Key Comments •

Over the past five years, Brisbane median house prices in all rings have recorded double-digit growth.

•

Rising median house price growth alongside a substantial increase in sales suggests good returns on capital investment in an undervalued market.

5,000

2017

2018

2019

2020 2021#

0

Inner Sales

Middle Sales

Outer Sales

Inner Median

Middle Median

Outer Median

© Prepared by PRD Research. Source: APM Pricefinder. #2021 encapsulates sales transactions for 2H 2021 (01/07/2021 – 31/12/2021).

BRISBANE UNIT SALES 2017-2021 # $600,000 $500,000

25,000

$400,000

20,000

$300,000

15,000

$200,000

10,000

$100,000

5,000

$0

2021# Median Sale Price

30,000

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021#

0

Inner Sales

Middle Sales

Outer Sales

Inner Median

Middle Median

Outer Median

•

Inner: $530,000

•

Middle: $467,000

•

Outer: $397,000

2017-2021 Price Growth

Unit Sales

Each report covers house and unit property types, capturing: 4Sales volume, median price, and median price growth year on year 2017 vs 2021 4Sales price distribution for 2021 4Average vendor discount on a quarterly basis from Q3 2020 to Q4 2021 4Average days to sell on a quarterly basis from Q3 2020 to Q4 2021 4Rental market information on a quarterly basis from Q3 2020 to Q4 2021 4Rental market performance 2020-2021 for different bedroom types (i.e 2+ bedrooms, 3+ bedrooms, 4+ bedrooms) 4Average rental yield on a quarterly basis to December 2021 4Vacancy rates on a

quarterly basis to December 2021 4Key commentary of relevant market trends

Median Unit Price

The PRD Major City Metro Update 1st Half 2022 reports are available for Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, and Hobart. These reports provide key statistical information for first home buyers, investors, and the property industry. The reports divide each capital city into inner, middle and outer rings, allowing for a comprehensive and in-depth analysis of each specified market, whilst painting a holistic picture of property conditions in each area.

the last 12 months due to sale price growth surpassing that of rental price growth. That said, Hobart recorded incredibly low vacancy rates in both its inner and middle rings, indicating quick occupancy and rental cashflow. Buyers have a better chance of finding affordable property in Hobart’s middle-ring, however must be quick to purchase as

•

Inner: 6.0% (+$30,001)

•

Middle: 3.1% (+$14,000)

•

Outer: 6.4% (+$24,000)

Key Comments •

Brisbane median unit prices have recovered from a dip in 2020, with all rings recording positive price growth in 2021.

•

The outer-ring provides affordability for first home buyers and is also the fastest growing. Buyers must be quick to secure their property.

© Prepared by PRD Research. Source: APM Pricefinder. #2021 encapsulates sales transactions for 2H 2021 (01/07/2021 – 31/12/2021).

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Located in the heart of one of Australia’s fastest growing regions, Brookwater is Brisbane’s best kept secret for luxury living. Crafted around the Greg Norman designed golf course, Brookwater provides a rare combination of prestige golfside living and natural bushland beauty. With the first stage of Brookwater completely sold, we are pleased to introduce the next stage of this exclusive community — your own architecturally designed piece of paradise — Dress Circle, only 15 minutes from Mount Ommaney. Life on Brookwater’s Dress Circle is close to everything you need — public transport, schools, childcare centres, a university, a private hospital, shopping centres and a thriving commercial precinct. We welcome you to experience Brisbane’s best kept secret when it comes to luxury living, and choose from our leading architectural collaborators to design your dream home — complimentary with your Dress Circle land purchase.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022 — 15

16 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022 — 17

18 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022 — 19

Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland

Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati by Acharya Harish Chandra As we approach Maharishi Swami Dayanand Saraswati Jayanti February 12 we are reminded of Maharishi 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 VarnaVyavastha 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-MahaBharata 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.

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 स्तुति 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 welldesigned creation. कण कण में जो रमा है , हर दिल में है समाया उसकी उपासना ही कर्तव्य है बताया, दिल सोचता है खुद वह कितना महान होगा ,हर वक़्त बन के साथी रहता है साथ सबके इतना महान जिसने संसार है रचाया हर वक़्त बन के साथी रहता है साथ सबके ,नादान उसको तू अब तक न जान पाया कण कण में जो रमा है , हर दिल में है समाया उसकी उपासना ही कर्तव्य है बताया ओ३म ्

20 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022

ईश्वर का मुख्य नाम ओ३म ् है , ईश्वर के गुण, सच्चिदानंदशस्वरुप, निराकार, सर्वशक्तिमान, न्यायकारी, दयालु अजन्मा और अन्नंत, निर्विकार, अनादि, अनुपम, सर्वाधार, सर्वेश्वर, सर्वव्यापक, सर्वान्तर्यामी, अजर, अमर, अभय, नित्य, पवित्र, सृष्टि-कर्ता, सृष्टिहर्ता और मोक्षदाता है । जगदीश, परमात्मा, प्रभु, विधाता, भगवान, ब्रह्मा, विष्णु, शिव, गणेश, महादे व, विराट, अग्नि, विश्व, हिरण्यगर्भ, वायु, ईश्वर, आदित्य, परम पुरुष, प्रजापति, इन्द्र, प्राण, ब्रह्म, रूद्र, दिव्य, सुपर्ण, गुरुत्मान ्, मातरिश्वा, भूमि, आदि सब उसी एक ही ओ३म ् के विभिन्न नाम हैं ईश्वर के कार्य -१. ईश्वर सृष्टि की रचना करते हैं । २. ईश्वर सृष्टि का पालन करते हैं | ३. ईश्वर सृष्टि का संहार करते हैं | ४. ईश्वर वेदों का ज्ञान दे ते हैं । ५. ईश्वर अच्छे -बुरे कर्मों का फल दे ते हैं | ६. ईश्वर योगियों को मोक्ष प्रदान करते हैं | ईश्वर हम सबका उत्पन्न करनेवाला, पिता के तुल्य रक्षक, सूर्यादि प्रकाशों का भी प्रकाशक है । हमारा प्रभु सर्वशक्तिमान ्, न्यायकारी, दयालु, पवित्र, अजन्मा, अनन्त, निर्विकार, अनादि, अनुपम, सर्वाधार, सर्वेश्वर, सर्वव्यापक, सर्वान्तर्ययामी, अजर, अमर, अभय, नित्य पवित्र और सृष्टि का रचयिता व पालक है । ईश्वर भक्ति के रास्ते में कौन कौन सी बाधाएँ हैं , जिनको पार कर हम इस मार्ग में अग्रसर हो सकते हैं ? उत्तर:- योग दर्शन में विस्तार से उन बाधाओं का वर्णन किया गया है ।जिनमें से पाँच मुख्य है जिनसे बचना अत्यन्तावश्यक है । प्रथम कारण - ईश्वर भक्ति में दृढ़ विश्वास का न होना अर्थात ् मन में संशय का होना यथा ईश्वर है कि नहीं, भक्ति से कोई लाभ होगा की नहीं इत्यादि संशय जब तक मन

में है ,भक्ति की और बढ़ना कठिन है । दस ू रा कारण - विषयों का सेवन तथा राग, रं ग, नाइट क्लब , शराब घर, सिनेमा, थियेटर आदि का आकर्षण है , इनसे ब्रह्मचर्य का नाश होता है और भक्ति में मन स्थिर नहीं होता। तीसरा कारण - शरीर का निर्बल वा रुग्ण होना अथवा स्वास्थय का ठीक न होना है । धर्म और भक्ति का सिद्ध करने वाला सर्वोत्तम साधन शरीर है । इसकी कभी उपेक्षा नहीं करनी चाहिए। चौथा कारण - अनियमितता है -अर्थात ् कभी ध्यान में बैठना कभी न बैठना, अतः नियमपूर्वक, दीर्घकाल तक तथा श्रद्धा के साथ भक्ति करना आवश्यक है । पाँचवां कारण - अभिमान का होना है । ईश्वर भक्ति में किसी प्रकार का भी अभिमान सबसे बड़ी बाधा है ।क्योंकि अभिमान किसी प्रकार भी भगवान ् को नहीं भाता। जीवन में, श्वास में, आशा में, विश्वास में, याद तुम ही आते हो सर्जन रचना में, विनाश में, निरं तर विकास में, सत्य के आभास में, याद तुम ही आते हो दरू आस-पास में, पीड़ा में उल्लास में, पृथ्वी में, आकाश में, याद तुम ही आते हो जीवन में, श्वास में, आशा में, विश्वास में, याद तुम ही आते हो ओ३म ् ओ३म ् ओ३म ्

ईश्वर

"कुछ लोग कहते हैं ," हम ईश्वर को नहीं मानते, क्योंकि वह दिखता नहीं है ।" मैं पूछता हूं, "क्या आप ने स्वयं को (आत्मा को) कभी दे खा है ?" नहीं दे खा। तो क्या आप स्वयं को भी नहीं मानेंगे? कितनी हँ सने की बात है ?" "आप कौन हैं ? शरीर या आत्मा? आत्मा।, आपके दादा जी कौन थे? शरीर या आत्मा? आत्मा।, आपके दादाजी की 10वीं पीढ़ी थी या नहीं थी? थी।, आपके दादाजी की 10वीं पीढ़ी वाले दादाजी कौन थे? शरीर या आत्मा? आत्मा।, क्या आपने स्वयं को (आत्मा को) कभी दे खा है ? नहीं दे खा।, अपने दादाजी (आत्मा को) और उनकी 10वीं पीढ़ी (आत्मा को) को कभी दे खा है ? नहीं दे खा।, तो क्या आप स्वयं को मानते हैं , या नहीं मानते? मानते हैं ।, "अब क्यों बिना दे खे मान लिया?" जब आप स्वयं को बिना दे खे मान सकते हैं , कि 'मैं हूं।' अपने दादाजी और उनकी 10वीं पीढ़ी (आत्मा ) को बिना दे खे मान सकते हैं , कि वे लोग (आत्माएं) भी थे। तो ऐसे ही ईश्वर को भी बिना दे खे क्यों नहीं मान सकते, कि "ईश्वर भी है ।" ऐसी तो हजारों लाखों चीज़ें हैं , जो आपने कभी नहीं दे खी, और शायद कभी भविष्य में भी नहीं दे ख पाएंगे। "जैसे आकाश में बहुत दरू तक फैली हुई अरबों खरबों आकाशगंगाएं हैं ।इलेक्ट्रॉन क्वार्क्स एनर्जी गुरुत्वाकर्षण बल, अल्फा बीटा गामा किरणों इत्यादि को आपने कभी नहीं दे खा, फिर भी आप वैज्ञानिकों के कथनानुसार इन सब वस्तुओं को मानते हैं । ऐसे ही ईश्वर को आपने नहीं दे खा, फिर भी ऋषियों (आध्यात्मिक वैज्ञानिकों) के कथनानुसार ईश्वर को भी मानना ही चाहिए।" यही बुद्धिमत्ता है । "यदि आप भौतिक वैज्ञानिकों की बात मानते हैं , और अध्यात्मिक वैज्ञानिकों (ऋषियों) की बात नहीं मानते, तो यह बुद्धिमत्ता नहीं, और जो भौतिक वैज्ञानिक लोग भी ईश्वर आत्मा आदि पदार्थों को नहीं मानते, वे भी बुद्धिमान नहीं कहलाएंगे " सभी लोग अपने बच्चों से प्रेम करते हैं , आप भी करते होंगे। क्या आपने उस प्रेम को कभी दे खा है , कौन से रं ग का है ? किस डिजाइन का है ? कितना लंबा चौड़ा है ? "इसी प्रकार से भूख प्यास पेटदर्द सिरदर्द खुशी दुख गन्ध स्वाद इत्यादि, ऐसी सैकड़ों वस्तुएं हैं , जिनको आप मानते हैं , जबकि इनमें से आपने एक भी वस्तु आंख से नहीं दे खी।" आप कहें गे, भूख प्यास पेटदर्द सिरदर्द खुशी दुख गन्ध स्वाद

इत्यादि, वस्तुएं आंखों से भले ही न दिखें, पर ये बुद्धि से समझ में आती हैं , इसलिए हम इन्हें मान लेते हैं । तो मैं कहता हूं, कि "कोई बात नहीं, आत्मा और ईश्वर भी, यदि बुद्धि से समझ में आ जाए, तब तो इनको भी मान लेंगे न! हां, तब तो मानना ही पड़ेगा।" अच्छा, तो लीजिए, बुद्धि से समझ लीजिए। "क्या बिना चित्रकार के, कोई चित्र अपने आप बन सकता है ? नहीं बन सकता।, क्या हलवाई के बिना मिठाई अपने आप बनती है ? नहीं बनती।, क्या दर्जी के बिना कपड़े अपने आप सिलते हैं ? नहीं सिलते।, क्या सुनार के विना आभूषण अपने आप बनते हैं । नहीं बनते।, क्या कुम्हार के बिना घड़े अपने आप बनते हैं ? नहीं बनते।, यदि ये सब वस्तुएं अपने आप नहीं बन सकती, तो ईश्वर के बिना अपने आप यह सृष्टि कैसे बनेगी?" "जगत की रचना बार बार होती है । नियमपूर्वक होती है । जगत ् के मूल जड़ पदार्थों में तो ज्ञान नहीं है , कि वे स्वयं जगत ् को बना दें । इससे सिद्ध होता है , कि जगत ् का भोक्ता, कोई चेतन आत्मा भी है । और जगत ् का बनाने वाला कोई चेतन ईश्वर भी है ।" ईमानदार व्यक्ति को समझाने के लिए तो इतना प्रमाण तर्क काफी है । इतने से वह आत्मा और ईश्वर को मान लेगा। "जिसे नहीं मानना, और हठ करना है , उसका कोई इलाज नहीं है । आप तो बुद्धिमान हैं । कृ पया आप तो अपना विनाश न करें । हठ न करें । "विशेष रूप से भौतिक विज्ञान को मानने वाले लोग ईश्वर और आत्मा को समझने का प्रयत्न करें । उसके संविधान को वेदों को पढ़ें । वेदानुकूल उत्तम कर्मों का आचरण करें । तो धीरे -धीरे आप को ये बातें समझ में आ जाएंगी, कि 'ईश्वर ही सृष्टिकर्ता है ।' वही सब का राजा न्यायाधीश है । उसको प्रसन्न करें । अन्यथा यदि वेद विरुद्ध बुरे कर्म किए, तो वह बहुत खतरनाक दं ड दे गा। स्वामी विवेकानन्द परिव्राजक ओ३म ्

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022 — 21

THE FIJI TIMES 152nd ANNIVERSARY – PART 2 of 4

HOW FT, WITH THE CHIEFS, CONTRIBUTED TO FALL OF DEMOCRACY IN FIJI WITH AS A BIASED MEDIA

Thakur Ranjit Singh, FIJI PUNDIT PROLOGUE - PART 2 This is SECOND PART of continuation of the four-part series on the history of the Fiji Times (FT). This is from already published articles and my research of Master’s Thesis – a historical notoriety of a Fiji newspaper never told in this manner and language. DISCLAIMER: All reference to FT is to the foreign-owned paper before localisation in 2010. Hence I do not have any concerns with the locally - owned FT of 2021.

INTRODUCTION In Part 1, we mentioned that The Fiji Times (FT) just marked 152nd anniversary and were in Fiji prior to arrival of first Girmitiyas but remained blind to their plight and inhumane treatment. In fact they despised and hated them as smelly, darkskinned invaders to Fiji and became cheerleaders and mouthpiece of the British and Australian colonists and degraded these helpless and defenceless people. Part 2 here will show that the leopard did not change spots, and after departure of the white men, they became towel boys and lapdogs of Eastern Chiefs, elite Itaukei and European and Gujarati businesses, and how they became a threat to Fiji’s democracy. As I have openly stated before, the greatest threat to democracy in Fiji came from the Great Council of Chiefs, followed by a partisan media. Please read that here... THE FIJI TIMES PART 2 (OF 4) Russell Hunter was refused an extension of his work permit by Chaudhry government which had a bitter running battle with the media in general and FT in particular. One notable incident was during the launch of the Fiji Media Council’s Code of Conduct where the Prime Minister Chaudhry was very critical of reporting standards and the attitude of FT towards his government and accused it of “fanning the fires of sedition and racism.” In his speech, Chaudhry had

singled out one particular reporter, Margaret Wise – that, later. In speaking about unnecessary and unwarranted coverage given to nationalist union leader Taniela Tabu, Chaudhry accused The Fiji Times of harbouring an agenda: There have been a number of articles on Taniela Tabu breathing fire and brimstone along racial lines, making all kinds of threats and allegations not backed by facts. Yet The Fiji Times continues to pose this man whose own credibility is questionable, having frittered away $4 million of union membership funds that he can’t explain, as the saviour of the Fijian civil servants… none of the other media reported anything on his unwarranted ourbursts... It makes me wonder whether there is not a conspiracy at work here between that particular reporter and these anti-government elements? Media commentators Field, Baba and Nabobo-Baba shed additional light on the Wise story: The Rupert Murdoch-owned Fiji Times decided, almost by default and as a result of one particular reporter that they were going to get rid of Chaudhry. Reporter Margaret Wise tore into Chaudhry with many an unsourced story which the paper had no qualms about publishing. What was known to the newspaper, but not shared with readers and now a matter of court record, was that she was also Rabuka’s lover and had a child by him. It was Mahendra Chaudhry and his People’s Coalition Government that soundly walloped Rabuka and his SVT into oblivion. The unethical sexual relationship between FT’s political star reporter Margaret Wise and the person who was soundly beaten by Chaudhry, Sitiveni Rabuka was reported in FT. Michael Field (2010), in his Swimming with Sharks mentioned this: Rabuka fathered a boy with [Margaret] Wise and then denied it was his. I was often in Fiji at the time, covering treason and mutiny trials. More than once I would run into Rabuka after Wise took him to court. ‘ A DNA test revealed Mr Rabuka was 99.999 percent [certain] to be the likely father of the 18-month-old boy,’ the Fiji Times said. The court found he was the father, and he was ordered to pay F$30 a week. (p.179) The ethical issue that arises here is that when she was reporting against the Chaudhry government, she was also having an affair with Rabuka. How would a multinational, Rupert Murdoch’s media allow such a conflict of interest to exist without any control, and with apparent knowledge, encouragement, and the blessings from FT management. Why did Alan Robinson and Russel Hunter allow this unethical media practice to flourish?

A free and neutral media in a fledgling democracy, in a developing nation, with racial issues, need to exercise extra care to project itself as a neutral, impartial and balanced Fourth Estate. Unfortunately, as my research substantiates, the foreignowned FT failed to live up to this expectation, while beating hollowed drums of success in Fiji for 152 years. It is incidents and situations like this that gave rise to the term “skirt journalism” that raises ethical and conflict of interest issues. Another researcher at USP was also critical of the newspaper which portrayed Speight as a crusader for the Fijian race, wresting back the power for the Fijian race for preservation of their future. She also named Margaret Wise, as one of FT reporters who wrote stories that were aimed at consolidating the myth that the takeover was an ethnic conflict and not provincial rivalry between the confederacies. Wise continued to run stories which kept on emphasising inter-ethnic conflict as the reason. Another researcher in her hypothesis proposed that: The Fiji Times represented and reinforced the ruling class ideology in Fiji, a ruling class who were determined to consolidate political power by promoting the role of chiefly elite and thereby disguising the tension caused by class relations in society. It also declared that the Speight crisis happened because Fijians did not trust an Indo Fijian Prime Minister to deliver security of Fijian rights and guarantee of Fijian leadership. She added that the editor of FT during the crisis was a Fijian (referred to as indigenous race). The view of the Fijian editor appeared to have been filtering in the newspapers. FT took it for granted that the Fijian chiefs had legitimacy to provide leadership role in a crisis situation, ignoring the Indo-Fijians in the process. This concept of legitimising the role of non-elected and politically aligned chiefs over all the people of Fiji matches Herman and Chomsky’s (2008) Propaganda Model theory which stipulates that media is dependent on the elites and participates in propaganda

Russell Hunter, Editor-in Chief of Fiji Times, during late 1990, and was denied visa and deported during the Peoples Coalition rule, but joined FT once Chaudhry was displaced as a result of political instability that, as my research shows, was partly contributed by the stance of a biased FT. campaigns helpful to elite interests. Research analysis showed the newspaper tended to support not only the business functions but also the ruling chiefly elite over that of the survival of democracy. The racial slant of FT supported democracy, as long as the Fijians and the GCC dominated leadership and ruled Fiji. FT, while supporting democracy tended to favour Fijian self-interest over the political system and mandate of the people. The papers failed to support the huge mandate of the people for return of Chaudhry to power. This was a clear reflection of the racial skew of

years for your Salvation. You can receive your greatest miracle of salvation (Mukti) today. This is the confidence you can have in Christ alone. The Word of God declares that everyone on earth have sinned, and fallen short of God’s glorious standards (Romans

3:23). Not a single person on this planet ever lived or living can stand and say, ‘I am pure and holy before God’. For the wages of sin is death, but free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord (Romans 6:23). But the Good News is here, for you and me. Nothing can come between you and God’s love, including death and demons. All your fears and worries can be turned to simple faith and worship. No power in the whole universe has the capacity to pull you out of God’s grip. Do you want to experience such a per-fect love and security? Millions of dollars or millions of good work can't earn you God’s love. All you need is simple and humble heart which is ready pray and be healed by power of Christ’s love. Apostle Paul states that, when we trust Christ for our forgiveness, God com-pletely wipes out our guilty status. To trust in Christ means to believe that He died for our sins as a perfect ‘Lamb of God’. In that sacrificial death Christ carried the sins of all humanity. But by faith we must repent of our sins. By faith we must ask God to cleanse us. And god will give us a new heart and mind. When we confess to God

Jesus said “Arise and Shine…”

Key Scripture:

Dear Reader, Our purpose is simple and clear. It is to make God real and Personal. And to demonstrate God as a Living and a Loving Person; so you may understand His nature and relate to Him practically and personally. It is important to understand

that God is not an object or an image. He is also not result of imagination of human mind. God is a living and loving person. We find this amazing revelation in the pages of Holy Bible. Keep reading with an open heart and humble spirit. We are excited to bring you

22 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022

Pic source:kingjamesbibleonline.org

the Good News.This news about true hope. This hope will give us power to live in love. And this love is the result of absolute confidence Christ grace foe all humanity. It our hope that you will encounter your Creator today. You don’t need a thou-sand

Sakiasi Butadroka, who helped displace Ratu Mara’s Alliance Government was also used by ethno-nationalist politicians to destabilise Chaudry’s Government, and FT allowed them enough space and publicity to do this. the papers’ editor and senior and influential journalists and their links to the ruling elite who supported Fijian leadership for Fiji. Criticism by Chaudhry and other researchers and authors concluded that: ……the FT editor failed to provide any in-depth analysis of the causes of the political crisis nor related it back to historical events. .… reinforced the colonial legacy that Fijian chiefs are the rightful rulers of Fiji, emphasising that Fiji, and this presumably means Fijians, was not ready for a multiracial constitution. The researcher was critical of the standard of the editorials and the paper’s understanding of the Constitution and their lack of understanding of the special protection accorded in the 1997 Constitution, the process of Constitutional change and the inability of any Prime Minister to be able to change things at their

The Power…

Romans 8:38-39 (NLT) And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,[a] neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow— not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth be-low—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Tin-Pot racist trade unionists and political party leaders, with questionable support and ethics were allowed space by certain reporters of FT to spew racial venom on Chaudhry’s Peoples Coalition Government of the day, and management of FT allowed this partisan approach to flourish.

whim, hence the fact that an IndoFijian Prime Minister was not a situation that should agitate the Fijian public. My continuing Part 3 will brief you on my research for AUT Thesis, which substantiated that a partisan, a biased FT contributed to fall of democracy in Fiji - an irony for a supposedly Fourth Estate to do so. [About the Author: Thakur Ranjit Singh is former publisher of now closed, partly government-owned Daily Post newspaper, a journalist, a media commentator, a community worker in Auckland and runs his blog FIJI PUNDIT. He did a research on the role of the Fiji Times in contributing to destabilising of democracy by a partisan newspaper that culminated in Speight’s attempted coup in 2000. Details in the articles are largely from his Masters in Communication (MCS) thesis at Auckland University of Technology (AUT) in 2011, and from already published materials. E-mail:thakurjifj@gmail.com.]

with simple child like faith, God pours out His love into our heart. This love is a supernatural power of God. Nothing in the whole universe can seperate us from God’s love. Jesus Christ becomes the Lord of our life. We become His children and His members of Holy family. To know Jesus as The Lord mean to know Author of our life. And to walk in His ways mean journey through this life by faith. Therefore, we invite you to pray this with a sincere heart; “Dear Father God, today I thank you for your word that has touched my heart. I repent of my wrongs and I confess with my mouth ‘Jesus is Lord’ and I believe in my heart that Jesus died for my sins, God raised Jesus from the dead for my Mukti (Salvation). Now help me to know Jesus more and more so that I can grow in the knowledge of your grace and mercy. Teach me your ways so that I can be person who will learn to honour you and learn to love each other. Amen. Please email to us your encounter experience, so we can help you to grow in the understanding your Creator and Redeemer. navig8grace@ gmail.com

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022 — 23

Sage Vashishth Vashishth is a Vedic sage whose stories are found in the Veds, Ramayan, Mahabharat, Purans and other religious texts and literatures. Through his penance, he became a renowned sage and attained the title of Brahmarishi. His name is synonymous with most excellent, best or richest. He is one of the Saptarishis. Saptarishis are seven sages, highly extolled in Hinduism and include Atri, Bharadvaj, Gautam, Jamadagni, Kashyap, Vashishth and Vishvamitra. Origin: A number of stories describe Vashishth’s birth with varying details. According to the Rigved, Vashishth is the son of gods Mitra and Varun and Apsara Urvashi. In Pauranic texts, he is described as a Manasputra or mind born son of Brahma. He was produced in the beginning of the Creation. Brahma assigned him the task of performing Yagyas for the welfare of the world and also appointed him to the position of family priest of Ikshvaku dynasty kings. This dynasty is also known as the solar dynasty, in which Shree Ram was born. He accepted the priest’s role after Brahma confirmed that Vishnu would incarnate in this dynasty in the future. Daksh, father of Sati, started his Yagya and invited all the gods except Shiv. Sati did not tolerate this affront to Shiv, her husband. She immolated herself in anger. Shiv’s supporters then destroyed the Yagya and many participants, including Vashishth. Later, Brahma recreated Vashishth to continue his roles. One Pauranic story relates his birth to king Nimi. Vashishth was Nimi’s priest. The king intended to preform a Yagya. He approached Vashishth to direct the ceremony but the priest was busy with other engagements. Nimi did not wait for Vashishth and started the event. On learning of Nimi’s discourteous conduct Vashishth cursed the king to die soon. Nimi also cursed him the same. Vashishth approached Brahma for protection. Brahma suggested he enter into the gods Varun and Mitra, which he did. When they saw Urvashi, Vashishth came out of them and entered into a pitcher. Later, from the pitcher, he emerged as a person. Vashishth was married to Arundhati. She was eighth among the nine daughters of sage Kardam and his wife Devahuti. Vashishth had a number of children with Arundhati. Their son Shakti was the father of sage Parashar and grandfather of sage Vyas, the author of the epic Mahabharat. Writings: As a Vedic poet, he is credited with the revelation of all hymns in the seventh chapter and many hymns in other chapters of the Rigved. His hymns are dedicated to Vedic deities such as Agni, Indra, Mitra, Varun, Vishnu, Usha and others. His Rigvedic hymns also appear in other three Veds. In the Vedic texts, Vashishth acts as a Purohit of king Sudas, an ancient ruler. Vashishth is credited with the authorship of a number of ancient and medieval period books that include The Vashishth Dharmasutra, Vashishth Samhita, Yog Vashishth, as well as Agni Puran and sections of Vishnu Puran. The Vashishth Dharmasutra is an ancient text, one of four extant Dharmasutras. It discusses various aspects of civilised human living, social conducts, organisation of society, just administration and other issues. Vashishth Samhita is a Yog book. It is mostly a retelling of Patanjali’s Yogsutra with some variations. Yog Vashishth presents Vedant and Yog philosophies. It is written in the form of dialogue between Vashishth and Ram. It relates to the period when Vishvamitra had arrived at Dasharath’s court to ask for Ram. Ram had recently returned from pilgrimage and was feeling detachment from worldly affairs. Ram appeared before the sages and dialogue occurred between Ram and Vashishth to clarify queries that arose in Ram’s mind. The idea discussed in the book is considered a foundation for

Advait Vedant philosophy, which was disseminated by Adi Shankaracharya. The Agni Puran credited to Vashishth is one of the eighteen major Purans. The extant text exists in numerous versions, some different from others. The book is divided into around 380 chapters and contains over 15,000 verses. It is named after Agni because god Agni recited it to sage Vashishth. He later recited it to Vyas, the compiler of the text. The Vishnu Puran is another major Puran, which is partly credited to Vashishth. It is a Vaishnav Puran. The extant version of the book is divided into 126 chapters and contains around seven thousand verses. It primarily centres on Vishnu and his incarnations. Vashishth is also described in Buddhist, Jainism and Sikh’s religious texts. Many of the legends from Sanskrit text are reproduced in Pali, Prakrit and Gurumukhi languages. Divine cow: Vashishth is associated with the divine wish-fulfilling cow, Kamdhenu, also known as Surabhi. She surfaced during the churning of the cosmic ocean by deities and demons. Kamdhenu was given to Saptarishis. Eventually the cow came under ownership of Vashishth. She stayed in heaven. One of her daughters named Nandini lived with him on the earth, substituting her mother. Nandini had been a cause of hostility between Vashishth and Vishvamitra. Vishvamitra was a Kshatriya king. Once he along with his army and sons visited Vashishth’s hermitage. Vashishth entertained him with lavish hospitality. Vishvamitra was surprised by the splendour of the service. He learnt that all arrangements were done thanks to the cow Nandini. He wished to take the cow at any price. Vashishth refused to hand over Nandini. Vishvamitra forcibly dragged the cow from her shelter. A fight ensued and Vashishth destroyed Vishvamitra’s army and sons by humming his divine spell. Vishvamitra was defeated and left the place in shame. He travelled to the Himalaya where he prayed to lord Shiv for a long time. Shiv became pleased with his penance and granted him divine weapons on his request. Armed with Devastras, Vishvamitra came to Vashishth’s hermitage and used his weapons to engulf the Ashram in fire. Vashishth came out of his residence and noticed Vishvamitra causing the mayhem. He planted his Brahmadand, divine stick, on the ground. It radiated energy that distinguished the fire and destroyed all attacking weapons. Vishvamitra was forced to retreat.

24 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022

Vishvamitra returned to the Himalaya again and performed severe penance for thousands of years to Brahma. He attained initially the status of Rajarishi and then Brahmarishi, like Vashishth. After that, they eventually both reconciled. Another story connected with Nandini relates to the birth of Bhishma. Once Dyaus and other Vasus were enjoying themselves in the forest near Vashishth’s Ashram. Dyaus’ wife persuaded her husband to steal Vashishth’s cow. Vasus, which were a kind of deities, conspired to steal the divine cow. Vashishth learnt about their plan and cursed them to be born as human. When they pleaded with him to rethink his spell, Vashishth limited the duration of the curse to one year to all except Dyaus. He would have a long, virtuous and celibate life as a mortal. It was Dyaus who was born to Ganga as a son of king Shantanu. He was named Devavrat and later became renowned as Bhishma. Vashishth taught him the Veds and other branches of learning when Devavrat was under guardianship of his mother Ganga. Purohit: Vashishth was the royal priest of solar dynasty kings. He had been associated with many major events that happened in their lives. Kalmasapada was an ancient solar dynasty king. He had developed a demonic nature and had violated a pious woman. She cursed him to die if he made contact with his wife. The king had no children to continue his lineage. He approached Vashishth to produce a son on his wife through Niyog practice. Vashishth obliged and begot a son named Ashmak on king Kalmasapada’s wife Madayanti. Ashmak later became a king. In the Niyog system, a woman whose husband was either incapable of siring or had died without producing a child would produce a child with the help of a revered man. One tale relates to the truthful and just solar dynasty king Harishchandra. Vashishth declared his virtues in the assembly of gods. Vishvamitra was also present there. He did not like Vashishth’s admiration for Harishchandra and decided to prove him wrong. Vishvamitra returned to the earth and devised deceits to deviate Harishchandra from the truth. Vashishth had gone to another region to perform his penance. Harishchandra endured many hardships due to Vishvamitra’s actions but finally proved himself truthful to his words. Eventually, Vishvamitra accepted his own folly and defeat. When Vashishth returned and learnt about the events that transpired

during his absence, he cursed Vishvamitra to be transformed into a heron. In another story, Vashishth helped king Dilip to become a father. His wife Sudakshina was childless. Dilip was worried about the future of his kingdom due to the absence of an heir. He along with his wife approached their priest, Vashishth. Vashishth with his divine power learnt that the king had not expressed due respect to Kamdhenu during his trip to the heaven. Due to his impolite behaviour to the cow, the queen was unable to produce a baby. Vashishth suggested the couple to please Nandini, Kamdhenu’s daughter, who lived in his hermitage. They followed Vashishth’s instructions and served the cow in all respects. Ultimately Nandini became pleased and offered them milk to drink. She also granted boons to be blessed with an illustrious son. Later the queen delivered a son who became a powerful king named Raghu. Vashishth was capable of knowing past, present and future. The story of Indumati, wife of king Aja, also relates to this ability. Aja was the father of king Dasharath. Once Aja and Indumati were enjoying natural beauty in their pleasure garden. At that moment Devarishi Narad flew in the sky near them. A flower from Narad’s neck garland detached and fell on the chest of Indumati. She immediately passed away by the touch of the flower. The king was grief-stricken. When Vashishth became aware of the incident, he told him the story of Indumati’s previous life to console him. In the previous life, she was an Apsara named Harini. Indra had sent her to destroy the penance of sage Trinabindu. After arriving at the sage’s hermitage, she started doing so. The sage recognised her and cursed her to be born as human. She pleaded with the sage, repenting her conduct. He reduced the severity of the curse, informing her that she would be freed by the touch of a flower from the sky. That Apsara was born as Indumati and she returned to heaven. The story reduced Aja’s pain. Vashishth’s role in the Ramayan is well known to general public through Ramlila and Ramayan serials. It was Vashishth who had advised king Dasharath to perform Putrayeshti Yagya with the help of Sringi Rishi. Vashishth performed rites of passage for Ram and his brothers. He was their Gurukul teacher and taught them spiritual and royal disciplines. He was present during their wedding ceremony in Janakpur. He accompanied Bharat to Chitrakut to bring back Ram who had started his 14-year exile. Under Vashishth’s direction Ram was installed as a king of Ayodhya after his return from the exile. Prominence: A number of temples, hermitages and caves relating to Vashishth are located in different parts of India. His statues can be seen in Ram Durbar temples. Vashishth is depicted with white flowing beards and moustache. His hair is normally tied together and knotted on top of his head. A vertical Tilak decorates his forehead. Vashishth’s activities are spread over many epochs starting from creation to Vedic, Ramayan, Mahabharat and Pauranic periods. Scholars suggest that the term Vashishth is a patronymic name. It also refers to schools following his ideals. Vashishth has a permanent position in the constellation of Saptarishis or Great Bear constellation, which is a collection of seven bright stars representing seven ancient Indian sages. It is visible during a clear night in the northern sky. Vashishth’s wife Arundhati is also acknowledged as a star and is located close to him in the sky. Both symbolise an independent and close relationship between husband and wife. In some Hindu communities, sighting Arundhati by bride and groom is a part of wedding ritual, signifying a lifelong commitment to maintain a close and free relationship between the wife and husband. —Awadhesh Sharma web: hinduguru.com.au

ओ३म ्

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Uniting, embracing of the great and the small, of the rich and the poor and uniting of equals symbolising brotherhood camaraderie and a new start to things. People love festivities, cheerful attitude - Inner illumination is real Holi. Hope your life is framed with all colours of love and happiness -Happy Holi

Venue : Queensland Vedic Cultural Centre 198 Learoyd Road, Willawong, Qld 4110 For further information please contact: Dr. Sukhvir Singh - 0421 897 157 Mr. Hari Chand - 0437 430 062 Mrs.Roslene Suman Chand 0401164232

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022 — 25

Who, What, Where, When...

Brisbane Lord Mayor Right Hon Adrian Schinner officially launched Bris Asia 2022 on Saturday 5th February

Usha Chandra, Councillor Vicki Howard, Lord Mayor Adrian Schinner, Umesh Chandra OAM at the Bris Asia Launch party

The panel discussion at ICAQ’s Australia Day and Indian Republic Day celebration in Sandgate

Hindu Society of Queensland celebrated their anniversary on 26th January under the COVID safe guidelines

Nicole Andronicus and her guest joins Usha Chandra and Pinky Singh at Bris Asia Launch party

Cultural performances at ICAQ’s Australia Day and Indian Republic Day celebration in Sandgate

The lion dancers making their way through the crowd to the Bris Asia Launch Party

Song Women Maroochy Barambha at ICAQ’s Australia Day and Indian Republic Day celebration in Sandgate conducted the acknowledgement to first nations people

Umesh and Usha Chandra with Anita Singh (Mandir Coordinator- Gayatri Mandir) at Mandirs anniversary function.

Respected Vijendra Kumar “officially launched Utkatu Naikers book “Echoes if Fiji: Global Footprints of a Girmit Grandson” 26 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022

Opening act of Bris Asis 2022 launch Party Dheeraj Shresta on Tabla , Sudha Manian on Sitar and Tenzin Choegyal vocals

Bob Pillay of Cornerstone Law Offices receives his signed book of the newly released book by author Utkatu Naiker

Who, What, Where, When...

Rejoice Thomson , Connie da Cunha , David Crisafulli ( LNP Leader) and Pinky Singh at the VIP reception during Brisbane City Councils citizenship ceremony

Councillor Tracy Davis, Umesh Chandra OAM and Usha Chandra at Brisbane City Councils Citizenship ceremony

Resident Bhajan Mandli at Shre Vishnu Maya Mandir were specially recognised at the 5th Staphna Diwash

Dharam Guru Punjiye Tripathi ji addresses devotees at 5th Staphna Diwash from his enclosed socially distanced seat

Mandir volunteers get special mention and blessings at Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir’s 5th Sthapna Diwash

New Citizens and their guest at the Rotary Club of Jindalee’s citizenship ceremony

Umesh Chandra OAM (Guest Speaker) with Gary Page of Rotary Club of Jindalee Call: (07) 3192 5188

Mrs Madhu Khanna Left with Sweta at Vishwa Hindu Diwas organised by FICQ at Vedanta Centre in Springfield

Guru Maa Asha JI, recognises Umesh and Usha Chandra for their support to the activities of Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir

Registration and welcome desk at the Rotary Club of Jindalee’s citizenship ceremony

Milton Dick MP, reads the message by The Hon Alex Hawke MP at the Rotary Club of Jindalee’s citizenship ceremony www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022 — 27

Parents’ Worship Day – Matri-Pitri Poojan Diwas on 14th February - A Brahm Sankalap – A Global Campaign

The content of this article is based on the teachings of HH Sant Shri Asaram Ji Bapu. Pujya Bapu Ji had addressed the Parliament of the World’s Religions in Chicago in September 1993, that was 100 years after Swami Vivekananda addressed the same parliament in September 1893. 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 (basil). So, with a view to awaken the cultural pride of the India and to save the countrymen from mental slavery, in 2014, he initiated celebration of Tulsi poojan on 25th December. Etymology The name of the day in which we honor and worship our parents seeks it origin from two Sanskrit words: 1. “मातृ” (matr) => Mother 2. “पितृ” (pitrŕ) => Father Mother + Father => Parents A day dedicated to celebration of divine love for one’s parents by worshipping them => Parents’ Worship Day We have worship days for many Gods and Incarnated Divine Souls like Lord Rama, Lord Krishna, Lord Shiva, Lord Jesus, Lord Allah, the Spiritual Masters of the Guru. Parents are living gods on earth. Then why not have a worship day for our parents as well? So this new ritual of celebration of pious love for one’s parents has been accepted by all religions worldwide. According to Vedas, circumambulating one’s mother gives virtues

equivalent to that of circumambulating the whole world. Hence by circumambulating you, mother; I have circumambulated the whole world seven times. Worship of father is equal to the worship of all gods; because father is a god.” Ganpati circumambulated his parents and he was tremendously blessed and he became the God who was foremost worshipped among all other Gods. The Hindu scripture ShivaPurana states: पित्रोश्च पूजनं कृत्वा प्रक्रान्तिं च करोति यः। तस्य वै पृथिवीजन्यफलं भवति निश्चितम ्।। It means: “He who worships his parents and circumambulates them, will certainly derive the fruit and merit of circumambulating the earth.” Celebration of Valentine’s Day, promotes nothing but mindless passion, lust and promiscuity. Valentine day has diluted the pious feelings of pure & selfless love with limited meaning towards only opposite sex. If we observe the effects of ‘Valentine’s Day’; there are more criminal cases of suicides, rapes, eloping of lovers, etc. on this day and there are multimillion dollar sales of condoms, liquor and narcotic drugs. Need What is the definition of love? Love is abstract, something invisible to eyes, inaudible to ears, and which leads to the experience of pure bliss in the heart. Love does not mean lust; but nowadays in the name of love, ‘Valentine’s Day’ is celebrated on 14th February in a style that corrupts the moral standards of the youngsters. The immorality spread by the distorted tradition of ‘Valentine’s Day’ is seen in the form of various sexual diseases like AIDS and sexual crimes like rape, molestations all over the world. ‘Where there is God there is no lust, where there is lust there is no God’, Lust is centred in the

28 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022

lower Chakras, one of the seven energy wheels present in the body. It gives rise to sexual excitement, thoughtless gratification of desires. And love is centered in the upper Chakras. It makes one thoughtful and gives one eternal joy. And it helps one behold the same divinity in all creatures. Origin The Parents’ Worship Day was introduced by Sant Shri Asharam Bapu (Also known as Asaram Bapu) in the year of 2007. The day was first celebrated on 14th Feb 2007 at Sant Shri Asharamji Gurukul, Ahmedabad in presence of approx 350 people including 97 students, their parents and gurukul staff. Sant Shri Asharamji Gurukul, Ahemdabad, got started on 9th June 2006 with 5th, 6th, 7th standard, is affiliated with Gujarat state board. According to Mr. Pankaj Saksena (Director of Gurukul, Ahmedabad), “Gurukul had just finished its first ever function of national republic day on 26th Jan 2007. Asharam Bapu gave a message on phone to organize another program of “Matru-Pitru Pujan” on the coming 14th Feb.” “Gurukul management had less than 20 days to arrange the first program celebration of Parents’ Worship, so they all started the preparation as fast as they could. They sent invitation letter to student’s parents and arranged “Matru-Pitru Pujan” program in the courtyard of Sant Shri Asharamji Ashram, Ahmedabad, situated adjacent to Sant Shri Asharamji Gurukul, Ahmedabad.” Finally On 14th Feb 2007, first program of “Matri-Pitri Pujan” was

celebrated, where students worshipped their parents and teachers. No one knows the day will make a history. Experience of selfless love among parents and children can be seen by all live spectators of that celebration. Tears of love could be seen in everyone’s eyes. One of the persons present at the occasion of the 1st “Matru-Pitru Pujan” program stated that, “Experience of that celebration was awesome. Emotional, pious love among parents and children was giving glimpse of heaven on the earth.” Message to parents and teachers “Children should not consider the parents despicable. ‘Parents’ Worship’ book and VCD have been published by the Ashram. Distribute them so that children imbibe good traits. Children disobey and defy parents and become self-willed. That makes them disturbed and disconcerted. Instead of getting eternal celebration, -=they develop eternal irritable nature. Instead of getting eternal success & prosperity they become eternally poor. Poor means desiring many things. Instead of getting eternal auspiciousness, they face unending troubles and botheration. Explain to them the glory of ‘Parents’ Worship Day’ from this day itself and persuade them to celebrate it in order to save them from irritability, poverty and troubles of eternal nature.” Message to media ‘Valentine’s Day’ is misleading young boys and girls towards darkness. Turn them towards ‘Parents’ Worship Day’. I ask you just this only

What is the definition of love? Love is abstract, something invisible to eyes, inaudible to ears, and which leads to the experience of pure bliss in the heart. Love does not mean lust; but nowadays in the name of love, ‘Valentine’s Day’ is celebrated on 14th February in a style that corrupts the moral standards of the youngsters. that your children and children of your readers and viewers should become brilliant. Before their life comes to an end; they should illuminate it with the radiance of divine knowledge, the knowledge of Life-giver. This way you can serve God in the form of society. 14 Feb 2013, Sam Thompson (Senator, New Jersey, USA) attended the Parents’ Worship Program at New Jersey. He said, “I’m glad to join you all on the Parents appreciation day and it is unfortunate that we don’t have this in our society here in the US, because it is so important because nothing determines what we have in our country, as much as the guidance the parents provide to the children. The children grow up to the values given by one’s parents. Unfortunately, so much of the society that is there in this country, that is not occurring. That’s why so many of our children become lost along the way.

So, what you do in your community, the values that you instil in your children, the credit and appreciation for all goes to the parents. I think that shows why, your children are growing up to be the fine member of society, even becoming leaders in our society. I congratulate you and commend you for that and again I call it is a wonderful occasion and a program. Thank you very much.” Ref: https:// www.youtube.com/ watch?v=VSQMGMkBNts Matru-Pitru Pujan” is celebrated globally by 17000s BSK, 1200s Yog Vedant Sewa Samiti, 400s Ashram and millions of followers and nonfollowers at schools, colleges, societies and houses. As it was envisioned, “Matru-Pitru Pujan” has become a worldwide campaign. By 2021 nearly 520 million people celebrated Matru-Pitru Pujan Diwas [Parents’ Worship Day] globally. Because of a surge in cases of Covid-19 and the new Omicron variant of the virus in Australia, Shri Yoga Vedanta Samiti Australia & New Zealand have postponed the communal celebration of Matri Pitri Poojan Diwas across Australia & New Zealand. The samiti urges all the parents to celebrate this event in a safely manner at their homes. The samiti plans to celebrate this event in community in the month of April 2022 where all the kids joining Matri- Pitri Poojan Diwas will get a free school bag. To listen 24X7 live divine Satsang of Pujya Bapu Ji, 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. To know more about His Divine Holiness Bapu Ji, please watch this video. https://bit.ly/2uZvJuN For more info about Bal Sanskar and yoga sessions, to get a free copy of monthly spiritual magazine Rishi-Prasad in your mailbox in Australia or to get free online subscription of Rishi -Prasad, please contact by email at bskamd@gmail. com or by WhatsApp/ phone to Ashok Attri and Anu Attri at +61 426 834 434 & +61 405 277 802. Please read more about our Vedic culture in the next issue of Brisbane Indian Times.

VEENA GOVERDHAN APPOINTED AS QUEENSLAND MAGISTRATE On 10 December 2021, the daughter of the late Surjan Goverdhan and Mrs Shanti Goverdhan, was appointed Magistrate of the State of Queensland to serve the community of the Gold Coast and South East Queensland. Mr and Mrs Goverdhan, retired schoolteachers from Ba Fiji, sent their daughter to Australia at the age of fourteen to complete her education. Magistrate Goverdhan said that the journey was not easy, and at times challenging, however, with the unconditional support of both her parents over the many years, she was able to achieve her goals. Magistrate Goverdhan said she pays tribute to her parents and that this moment in her career was both humbling and filled with pride. “My parents taught me that an academic education is the key to overcoming limited resources and improving not only my life but the lives of others. And even more importantly, my parents taught me, by example, that social education is the key to developing an awareness of, and commitment to respect for diverse communities, as well as an understanding of differing needs.” “I have worked in the law for over two

decades and will bring that experience to the Bench, as well as the values instilled in me by my parents. Receiving a phone call from the Attorney-General of Queensland, offering me such a significant appointment, will be something my parents and I will treasure for our lifetimes. Since my appointment, I have received numerous messages in support from the community. I would like to acknowledge the support I have received throughout my career from my colleagues and members of the Queensland Bar Association, as well as the support from the Magistracy since my appointment.” “The only thing that would have made this experience better would have been the opportunity to share those moments with my beloved father, Surjan Goverdhan, who sadly passed away on 4 November 2021. My father and my mother have always stood by my side, supporting me unconditionally. I feel my dad’s presence and support every day.” Magistrate Goverdhan commenced her appointment on 4 January 2022 and will be officially welcomed to the Queensland Judiciary at a ceremony scheduled to be held on 17 February 2022.

86 Scott Lane, North Maclean http://shreevishnumayamandir.org.au/ 04812 38360

Holika Dahan (Prahlad Raxa)

86 Scott Lane, North Maclean http://shreevishnumayamandir.org.au/ 04812 38360

By Dharam Guru Pundit Tripathi Ji

Friday 18th March at 6:30pm Holi Geet & Bhajans will begin at 5:00pm

ͳͻ Ǩ

Maha Shiv Ratri Poojan Very strict Covid 19 Protocols will be followed!

Tuesday 1st Mar 2022.

Abhishekam will begin from the Morning & the temple will be open throughout the day till 9:00pm for Abhishekam & Poojan. The temple will provide all Abhishek samagri like Bel Patra, Milk etc. The only temple in Australia to have 12 Jyotirlinga for Abhishek & Darshan.

Evening program:

Food (Maha Prasad) will be served afterwards.

6:30 pm to 9:00pm ----- Bhajan / Kirtan, Abhishekam & Prawachan.

Please come and join us for this very auspicious occasion!

8:00 pm --------------------- Kitchen will open for Phalahari Prasadam.

Food Sponsor $400.00

9:00 pm --------------------- Aarti & Samapan.

For any queries, please contact:

For more information please contact:

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

Dhirubhai Desai: 04062 13153, Bharat Solanki: 04111 31485, Devika Maharaj: 04248 91159, Rajesh Gopal: 04223 44046, Ranil Dayal 0403 146575 or the Temple 5548 6814

Or for secured online donation facility visit: http://shreevishnumayamandir.org.au/

Or for secured online donation facility visit: http://shreevishnumayamandir.org.au/

Call: (07) 3192 5188

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022 — 29

Australian IndiaN Radio Interviews

January Interviews on Australian Indian Radio BRISBANE, Australian Indian Radio conducts a series of interviews of community interest, Air is approached by many agencies for the interviews conducted by Umesh Chandra OAM. Regular shows include weekly Real Estate Update, Monthly Migration Updates, Legal topic, topical community concerns etc. The interviews can be heard on our social media channels and on our online stream. This month Australian Indian Radio, apart from the regular shows had the following interviews. • John Warlters, Rural Aid CEO • Associate Professor Stephen Shumack, University of Sydney and Royal North Shore Hospital • Shyam Das – President of FICQ – on Indian Republic Day virtual program • Asti Mardiasmo – Chief Economist PRD research, property predictions for the first half of 2022 If you have any topic that you would like to discuss, Australian Indian Radio will be more than happy to get you on the show, please contact our office for further information. Delhi based PIO TV has a long association with Brisbane Indian Times and Australian Indian Radio and they produce a daily India report exclusive to Australian Indian Radio Facebook live, the program is live streamed on Facebook live and YouTube channel .

If you would like to discuss about your business with Australian Indian Radio contact us at air@indianradio.net.au or call at 0430 193 715

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS – WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW WHEN INJURED ON THE ROAD BRISBANE Know your rights is a monthly series by Maurice Blackburn Lawyers on Australian Indian Radio, this month’s topic was Know your rights when injured at work. Alison Barrett is a Principal Lawyer in Maurice Blackburn's Queensland and Northern Territory practices and visits a number of offices across the State. She is a Queensland Law Society accredited specialist with over 15 years’ experience helping people with legal

claims. The interviews

comprehensive can be heard

30 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022

on Australian India Radio Facebook page and YouTube channel.

A very informative panel discussion was organised, the esteemed panellist spoke on every changing scenario of COVID 19. The forum was moderated by Dr Braj Raj Pande , the panellist included Dr Vagish Singh, founder president of IMAQ , Dr Dilip Dhupelia , Dr Neelam Maheshwari – keynote speaker and Prof Alka Kothari .

Aap Ki Sehat – Indian Republic day special and monthly episode hosted on AIR BRISBANE, on 26th January at 3:00pm a special episode of “Batein Sehat ki” was presented by members of IMAQ (Indian Medical Association of Queensland) on Indian Republic day and as part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav. A very informative panel discussion was organised, the esteemed panellist spoke on every changing scenario of COVID 19. The forum was moderated by Dr Braj Raj Pande , the panellist included Dr Vagish Singh, founder president of IMAQ , Dr Dilip Dhupelia , Dr Neelam Maheshwari – keynote speaker and Prof Alka Kothari . The panel discussion

Call: (07) 3192 5188

is the link to view the panel discussion on you tube https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=p4xFq0cUBIk The monthly episode of Aap ke Sehat was streamed live on Saturday 5th Feb at 10:00am on Australian

was streamed live by Australian Indian Radio

Indian Radio facebook page and You Tube channel, the permanent link for that stream is https:// www.youtube.com/watch? v=wp8O1yyLiH4&t=169s This month’s episode featured Dr Supratik Sen

Gupta, and as usual the interview was conducted by Dr Cyril Fernandez of IMAQ. The audio version of the show was aired on Australian Indian Radio on Sunday 6th February at 10:00am.

on their facebook channel and also on you tube, this

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022 — 31

Lessons Derived from Al-Isra Wal-Mi’raj BY IMAM NAWAAZ ASHARFI

I would like to mention to you very briefly about some of the lessons that we can derive from the miraculous event of al-Isra wal-Mi’raj, meaning the night journey which took Prophet Muhammad (SAW) from Mecca to Jerusalem and then to the heaven in the divine presence of Allah (SWT), and back. The event of al-Isra walMi’raj holds lessons for all believers till the Day of Judgment. Through Isra andMi’raj, the followers of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) have been given a glimpse of what awaits them in the hereafter, and what exists in the dimensions beyond our own. We should remember that this journey happened at a time of extreme adversity during the Prophet’s life and despite all the hardships he remained steadfast and patient. Although the circumstances around him were enormously adverse, his faith was never shaken, hence he was rewarded with this wonderful journey. The lesson for us is that whenever we are facing adversity, feeling weak, and oppressed, and all our means have been cut, we should go back to Allah, rely on Him alone, have faith, and be patient. The way to overcome our calamities and tribulations is by getting closer to Allah, by crying to Him, and surrendering ourselves totally to His will—while believing that whatever is happening is best for us. We have to remember that this world in reality is a testing ground. Allah constantly tests us; our belief and character is reflected by the way we deal with these tests and tribulations. In the face of oppression, the Prophet (SAW) dealt with his oppressors with kindness, mercy and forgiveness. While it is easy to be generous to a generous person, and kind to a kind person, the true test of our

character and faith is when we are able to treat our oppressors with kindness and generosity in the manner demonstrated by the Prophet (SAW). Thus, a true believer does not let oppression by others bother him; neither does he get angry with adverse situations and circumstances. He demonstrates absolute self control to the point that he does not even raise his voice in anger. We have been taught by the Prophet (SAW) that when we are oppressed we should not retaliate; instead we should remain silent and only turn to Allah for help. We are reminded through the great event of Isra and Mi’raj that before we experience victory, we will be tried. We should remain focused and direct ourselves to the right path while keeping our ultimate goal of reaching Jannah in mind. This will prevent us from deviating from the right path when we are tested. If we understand Islam, we will understand that no situation is too tough for us to handle as believers–we should face all situations with patience and contentment while relying on Allah to show us the solution. When Allah showed Prophet (SAW) the extent of His power and command, he (SAW) came back more calm and reliant on Allah and this is what he (SAW) communicated to his followers. The lesson in it for us is that Muhammad (SAW)’s Lord is our Lord. Time, space and distance are all His creations. Paradise and hellfire are not abstract concepts but real places which physically exist—and one of them is our final destination. We have been given

32 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022

sufficient descriptions of each to decide for ourselves which path we should take, and Allah has shown his infinite mercy and compassion to help us choose the right path. Compared to the nations of the previous Prophets and Messengers, it is clear that the nation of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) has been showered with more mercy and compassion than any other. Allah has lightened the burden on us, and multiplied the rewards of our deeds. No other nation has enjoyed this extent of forgiveness and forbearance from Allah (SWT).Therefore, the real celebration of alIsra wal-Mi’raj is to honor the message and purpose of the journey and to live according to the lessons it holds for us.. Let me dwell upon some other aspects of al-Isra walMi’raj. Firstly, both the mosques—al-Masjid alHaram in Mecca and alMasjid al-Aqsa in Jerusalem are considered holy, blessed and interlinked with one another. It behoves the Muslim ummah to be responsible for the safety, security, and protection of both these mosques. This is an amanah or a trust entrusted to the Muslim ummah. Al-Isra wal-Mi’raj signifies the role of

leadership of the Muslim ummah over Mecca and Jerusalem (al-Quds). The first Qiblah of the Muslims • The station of AlIsra and Al-Miraj (the miraculous journey of Mohammed saw) • The second house of Allah built on earth – it has been destroyed and rebuilt many times • The place where hundreds of Messengers of Allah are buried • The place where many companions are buried • A place where miracles were shown by Allah’s will • A place which Allah Himself calls a ‘blessed place’ • Referred to directly and indirectly, 70 times in the Holy Quran • The place where Angels have descended with Allah’s message • The only place on earth where all the Messengers of Allah prayed at the same time led by the Mohammed S. • The only Masjid mentioned by name in the Holy Quran a part from the Ka’bah Al-Aqsa was the first Qibla of the Muslims, it is the third most sacred mosque. The mosque itself forms part of the alHaram ash-Sharif or “Sacred Noble

Sanctuary” (along with the Dome of the Rock), The mosque is known to be the second house of prayer constructed after the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca. Imam Muslim quotes Abu Dharr as saying: “I asked the beloved Prophet Muhammad which was the first “mosque” [i.e. house of prayer] on Earth?” “The Sacred House of Prayer (Masjid al-Haram), i.e. Kaaba),” he said. “‘And then which’, I asked?” “The Furthest House of Prayer (Masjid al Aqsa)”, he said. “I further asked, ‘what was the time span between the two’?” “Forty years,” Prophet Muhammad replied. Maymunah Bint Sa’d (ra) relates that she asked the Prophet S, “O Messenger of Allah, inform us about Bayt Al-Maqdis (Jerusalem)”. He said, “Visit it for prayer “. She further asked, “If one of us cannot visit it, what should we do”? He said, “If you cannot go for prayer then send some oil to be used for its lamps, will be as if he has prayed in it”. (Ahmad, Ibn Majah, Abu Dawud, Tabarani) Secondly, we learn that the salah is the gift that the Prophet (SAW) brought with him from that journey to all Muslims so that they can worship Allah (SWT) through it. Mind that all other ordinances were decreed on the earth. This indicates how important salah is in Islam. We are informed through a Hadith that the Prophet (SAW) said, “The salah is the Mi’raj for a believer”. The salah is a time when we are in direct communication with Allah (SWT). It is one of the pillars of Islam. According to a Hadith, what lies between a man and kufr is the abandonment of salah. So we should take extreme care to guard our salah and try our best to offer it in the best possible

manner. Thirdly, the Prophet (SAW) was shown people being punished for various types of sins and he described them through his ahadith. We should remember these narrations and be careful to stay away from such sins. He saw those who committed adultery and their punishment, those who slandered, those who engaged in Riba, those who ate up the property of orphans and committed injustice, and various other sins. Forthly, had Allah (SWT) wanted, He could have made the Prophet (SAW) undertake this miraculous journey without having to mount the Buraq, but the Prophet (SAW) had to take the means. He had to take a mount and travel. This is how we are meant to interact with the world. We take the means (asbaab) while trusting on the originator of means (musabbibul asbaab). Likewise on the spiritual path, we cannot just expect ourselves to be reformed without striving; without taking the means to remove the haram from our lives. Everything around us is created for a purpose. What is required of us is to take all permissible means available to journey to Allah, by doing our bit. After we do our bit, after we have made the required effort then we rely on Allah (SWT). Brothers and sisters! If we recognize our lowliness before Allah, He will actualize His Majesty and Lordship in our lives. But if on the other hand we boastfully claim independence, strength, and control for ourselves, we will be left to our whims only to make us finally realize that it is He who is in charge and not we. May Allah (SWT) give us the tawfiq to live and die as Muslims, submitting to Him alone.

2022 Australian Day Citizenship Ceremony hosted by Archerfield Rotary Club On Australia Day 26 January, the Rotary Club of Archerfield again hosted a successful Citizenship Ceremony where 53 adults and 17 children from 32 different countries became Australian Citizens. The ceremony was ably presided over by Mr Graham Perrett, MP for Moreton. This was the 17th year that this ceremony has been held by our Rotary Club #RotaryPeopleOfAction. Due to COVID 19 gathering rules we held the ceremony on the football oval of Souths Sports Club #WhereGoodFriendsMeet. Morning tea was provided to candidates and guests funded by a grant approved by the National Australia Day Council #RespectReflectCelebrate. Following the ceremony, the Rotary Club of Archerfield held its inaugural Rotary Australia Day Community Fair also on the football oval at Souths Sports Club. We consider this to have been successful also with at least 1,000 adults and children attending throughout the afternoon. Entertainment was provided by Imanzi Dance and Drum Cultural Group, an Indonesian Dancer, music performance and more Indonesian dancing involving the public. Food vendors on site provided a choice of African, Indian, Indonesian and or Aussie BBQ for all to try. Rides for children including a Lion Safari Jumping Castle, Storm, Wipeout Challenge, Cup & Saucer, Pet Zoo, Pony Rides and Face Painting were all available. The entire Fair was provided to all attendees FREE thanks to the very generous grant provided to our club by the National Australia Day Council #WEREA LLPARTOFTHESTORY. Positive feedback has been received from a number of attendees. The Rotary Club of Archerfield extends sincere thanks to the friends of our club including Wallace, Jared, Wendy, Judy, Sultana, Les and club members who assisted on the Tuesday to set up the site and assisted the running of the events on Australia Day. The generous donation of your time is much appreciated. #RotaryServeToChangeLives .In excess of $200,00AUD has been donated through the Rotary Club Of Archerfield Senator Paul Scarr said “It’s great for new citizens to participate in citizenship ceremonies. Archerfield Rotary Club is a great club run by members who are living examples of what it means to be an Australian citizen. From helping droughtstricken farmers and communities at Stanthorpe to assisting cyclone-ravaged villages in Fiji, I’ve seen firsthand the wonderful work the club does. Archerfield Rotary Club represents all that’s great about multicultural Australia Call: (07) 3192 5188

and I cannot think of a better place for new Australians to take the pledge of citizenship. I always remind new Australians: not only did they find Australia, but Australia found them. Rotary Club’s Fun Fair This year, Archerfield Rotary Club’s annual citizenship event was made even better with its “Fun Fair” celebrating Australia Day. The “Fun Fair” was wellattended with plenty of

attractions - family rides, farm animals for children and free food stalls – offering a variety of street food favourites. Importantly, it was open to the whole community, and I saw firsthand the enjoyment it gave to the local community. I compliment the Australia Day Council for providing funding for the event and hopefully it will become an annual institution. Following the fair, I went onto to Zoom to join the Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland where I was honoured to formally represent the Prime Minister Scott Morrison in addressing the meeting.” Graham Perrett Map Said “The Rotary Club of Archerfield are a community group whose members are committed to working with and supporting the local community. Once a year, they host an Australian Citizenship ceremony on Australia Day. And each year I am fortunate enough to be invited to attend the ceremony and participate as the Presiding Officer. Citizenship ceremonies are the final step of the migration journey. It is when migrants make their formal commitment to become a part of the Australian family. Ceremonies hosted by local groups provide localised, community connection. While the last two years of the pandemic have presented some challenges in hosting events, the Rotary Club have always created a warm and welcoming event. This year's ceremony was hosted outdoors with welcoming food and a traditional Australian BBQ afterwards. This provided the opportunity for guests to welcome new citizens in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. New citizens take great pride in becoming Australian citizens and the Rotary Club of Archerfield work very hard in making sure that their

ceremony is memorable.” Fiji Ultrasound Machine Donation On behalf of the whole of Nadi I would like to thank the team for the work and effort made to get the container with all the items to us. All the stakeholders have taken the items and Hospital had also been able unload the beds and the consumables sent to us. The Ultrasound machine that came was the most precious item which came in the container and to our surprise it has a full set. Our BIOMED technician will have a look at it tomorrow once we have normal power supply in Hospital and if it works then for the first time in how many years we will be able to do Thyroid, linear probe scan in Nadi Hospital. Thank you so much for the beds and with the rising COVID and the Lepto , Dengue cases post flooding it will be very useful in our ED and wards. We Will also be using them in our Health centres. The consumables including Gels, some wipes and kits were so pleasing for the Sister In charge of Hospital and Health Centres as those items are very useful and we always have very limited supply of it. Thank you so much for the medical books. This will enable me to set up a mini Medical Library in the Hospital for Medical Officers to read and refresh on things. As always you send us what we need the most. I was also very grateful that you sent items for Rotary Nadi which will benefit the schools in Nadi also and also for our Waimaro and Nausori Highlands areas. I was happy that I was able to be part of getting items for them which would be difficult for them also. I wish we continue to work together in future also and keep making Nadi Hospital and Schools and other places better equipped to improve services and keep providing quality service to people of

Nadi and Beyond. Again thank you Mr. Deen for facilitating this with the team members and hoping you all have a wonderful year forward and May God give all of you Good Health so you keep doing this wonderful and generous things for everyone. Thank you and looking forward for more wonderful work in the near future. With the Best and Warmest Regards. Dr Mohammed Imtishal Principal Medical Officer Nadi Hospital

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Rotary Peace Poles On Thursday 11 November Remembrance Day members of the Rotary Club of Archerfield met at Grenier Park, Acacia Ridge to place an R100 Rotary Centenary Peace Pole. Commencing at 10 am we erected our marquee and a Deen Family employee, Mr De, commenced digging a suitable hole assisted by club members and a visiting Rotarian, Peter Brown, President of Caboolture Club. At 11 am we ceased work and joined the Belong Community in a simple Remembrance

Day ceremony. Following the ceremony, we continued installing the peace pole. Around 12 noon we were joined by other club members and we all enjoyed a delicious lunch of curry and rice graciously made by Mrs Kamrun Deen - very enjoyable. The Peace Pole concept was commenced in Japan by visionary Masahisa Goi who was deeply distressed by the atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, In 1955 he began to spread his simple message "May Peace Prevail on Earth".

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022 — 33

New Year and Anniversary Celebrations– Gayatri Mandir, Boondall Jai Shri Ram Gayatri Mandir celebrated New Years on an auspicious note, with the support of Moreton Bay Ramayan Mandali and the devotees, the day started with reciting of 11 hanuman Chalisa this created a positive vibe and sense of joy and peace. Pujaniye Pt Suresh Shandil performed the hawan and delivered a strong and profound message of peace and goodwill, he spoke on the concept of sewa which is an essence for spiritual progress. Pt Shandil also reminded us the importance of a Mandir, it provides a personal space for the community to come together to worship and evolve in their spiritual journey and also helps to build a strong and united community. The President, Dr Jai Ram, expressed the same sentiments, he briefly touched on the DA application for the New Mandir and Multipurpose Hall which is pending approval in the Environmental Court. Finally, the President thanked the Ramayan Mandali and the devotees who graced the Mandir. As you all know Omicron variant has been causing

a lot of anxiety, untimely and senseless death in our state - our prayers go out to the grieving families. Amid the chaos the State Government has not imposed any lockdown and restrictions. As such Hindu Society of Qld made a conscious decision to go ahead with the Anniversary Celebrations. The Management Committee ensured that all devotees followed the State Government Guidelines of fully Vaccinated, not have any symptoms of Covid-19 or have flu like symptom and wear mask if cannot socially distance.

The day started with Anniversary pooja and bhajan, mukhya yajman was Mr and Mrs OD Mishra, which was followed by jhanda bhandan. President, Dr Jai Ram launched society’s new website. He mentioned that it is very important and essential to have a website in this age of technology and conveyed his deepest gratitude and heartful thanks to one of our true devotees Parvathi Parepalli who was instrumental in designing the website. Please visit our new website www. hindusocietyqld.org.au , our new email address is

gayatrimandirqld@gmail. com. We have a feedback and contact us page, feel free to provide us feedback and we will be happy to oblige. The start of 2022 Bal Vikash will now resume on 20 February 2022, this is due to Government’s announcement to defer from Jan 24 to Monday Feb 7. Classes are open to students willing to learn Hindi language and Culture. Upcoming Events Ramayan Recital every Tuesday: 7.00pm to 8.30pm 26 February – Sundarkand programs begins 6.30pm followed by

Prasad and Mahaprasad 27 February to 1 March: Mahashivratri Sundarkand and Triodashi is held every month at the mandir, for details and sponsorship please kindly visit our website and Facebook page. Regular updates will be sent to all devotees via Facebook

and text messages. Stay Connected with Hindu Society of Queensland Website www. hindusocietyqld.org.au Facebook: Hindu Society of Qld and email us on gayatrimandirqld@gmail. com Phone: (07) 38653164 Address: 178 Lyndhurst Rd, Boondall QLD

Pandit Birju Maharaj

Legendary Kathak Dancer, Dies At 83 INDIA Birju Maharaj, in full Brijmohan Nath Mishra Maharaj, (born February 4, 1937), Indian dancer, a master of the kathak form and a leading exponent of the Kalka-Bindadin gharana (community of musicians sharing a distinctive musical style) of Lucknow. Birju Maharaj was born into a well-known kathak dancing family. He began performing as a child alongside his father, Acchan Maharaj. After the death of his father, when Birju was nine years old, he began training with his uncles, the well-known dance masters Shambhu and Lacchu Maharaj. He became a dance teacher at the age of 13, and by the time he was 28 his mastery of the dance form had won him the coveted Sangeet Natak Akademi (India’s national academy of music, arts, and dance) Award. Known for his perfect rhythm and expressive abhinaya, or gesture language, Birju Maharaj developed a style that blends elements belonging to both his uncles as well as those belonging to his father. He claimed to have inherited the precision of footwork and the play of the face and neck from his father, and the stylized fluidity of movement

from his uncles. In addition to delineating episodes from the Radha-Krishna legend, Birju Maharaj innovatively used the dance form to express himself on various non-mythological and social issues. He was

especially known as a brilliant choreographer, and he helped popularize dancedramas. Also, an accomplished singer, his renditions of thumris and dadras (forms of classical vocal music) were appreciated by many. He also played the naal, the tabla, and the violin. He composed the

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music and sang for two classical dance sequences in the movie Shatranj

ke Khilari (1977; The Chess Players), directed by Satyajit Ray, among other film work. Over the years Birju Maharaj toured extensively and gave many performances and lecture demonstrations. He was the recipient of numerous awards for his contributions to the performing arts, including one of the country’s highest civilian honours, the Padma Vibhushan (1986). Prime Minister Narendra Modi said his death is an "irreparable loss” to the entire art world. "Deeply saddened by the demise of Pandit Birju Maharaj ji, who gave Indian dance a special recognition world over. His

passing is an irreparable loss to the entire art world. My condolences to his family and fans in this hour of grief," the prime minister said. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman described the artiste as a "legend of performing arts". "Extremely saddened by the news about the passing away of Legendary Kathak DancerPandit Birju Maharaj ji. We have lost an unparalleled institution in the field of the performing arts. He has influenced many generations through his genius. May he rest in peace," singer Adnan Sami tweeted.

Celebration of India Australia Day 2022 and 25th Anniversary of FICQ 26th January is very significant in the history of both countries, Australia and India. What a unique coincidence that both country's National day falls on the same day. We cherish common values, such as a gifted connection between two countries enabling us to work together for a better world. FICQ celebrated one of its iconic events, India Australia Day, with great enthusiasm as a virtual event for the community's safety. Unfortunately, we could not hold it as planned in person due to the unprecedented hike in COVID 19. The event was well attended online by dignitaries from different backgrounds, from politicians to the corporate world, community leaders and members. Senator Paul Scarr represented the Prime Minister of Australia Hon. Scott Morrison MP, Mr Graham Perrett MP represented the Federal Opposition Leader Hon. Anthony Albanese MP, Mr Suneet Mehta, Deputy High Commissioner of India to Australia, was present on behalf of the High Commissioner of India to Australia, His Excellency Shri Manpreet Vohra, Mr James Martin MP, the member for Stretton, conveyed the message of the Minister for Children, Justice for Youth, and the Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Hon. Leanne Linard MP, Mr Milton Dick MP, Federal Member for Oxley, Cr Angela Owen spoke on behalf of the Lord Mayor of Brisbane

Cr Adrian Schrinner, Ct Teresa Harding, Mayor of Ipswich and Inspector Jacqui Honeywood, graced the occasion on behalf of the Police Commissioner of Queensland. The President of FICQ, Mr Shyam Das, started with the welcome speech. He emphasised the significance of the celebration of India Australia Day and the objectives and vision of FICQ, its role in fostering unity in diversity and the development of a strong bilateral relationship between Australia and India, multiculturalism and new projects taken on board. He proudly announced the milestone achieved by FICQ in 2022, which is 25 years in the service of the community. Assured the audience that 25th Anniversary would be celebrated with great zeal soon. He also thanked Hon. Annastacia Palaszczuk MP, the Premier of Queensland, for her best wishes. Hon. Mark Bailey MP, State

Minister for Transport and Main Roads represented the Queensland Government, Mr Jim Chalmers MP, The Federal Shadow Treasurer, and Dr Maha Sinnathamby MP, Patron of FICQ, for their beautiful video message. In conclusion, he thanked

NADC and BCC for their continued support and extended his sincere thanks to his committee members for their tireless efforts to make such an event a great success. He also emphasised getting vaccinated and enjoying freedom, which

is the only response to this pandemic. He expressed concern over the growing new COVID 19 in Australia and conveyed his best wishes for 2022. Other dignitaries spoke about the importance of celebrating Australia Day and India's Republic Day. Australia Day is a time for all Australians to reflect, respect and celebrate. We are all part of the story of Australia, and we celebrate being Australian together, free and fair. Our history began more than 60,000 years ago. Australia Day is a time to be united, not divided. We celebrate being

part of a proud, ancient, multicultural nation that values the contribution of every citizen. India's Republic Day, on 26th January 1950, India adopted its constitution for democracy, equality and respect for each other and obtained complete freedom from British rule. Besides informative and inspiring speeches, the event also showcased beautiful multicultural mesmerising performances. The event concluded with a vote of thanks to the dignitaries, committee members, performers, supporters and the MC.

Jindalee Rotary Club conducts citizenship ceremony JINDALEE, 26 January Jindalee Rotary Club hosted a citizenship ceremony at Jindalee Bowls club, the official party included Councillor Sarah Hutton Councillor for Jamboree, State member Milton Dick MP, federal member for Oxley, Jess Pugh State MP the member for Mt Ommaney, Terry white president – Jindalee Rotary Club. The programme began with the registration, as the candidates arrived, they were asked to take their respective seats as the whole event was being run under a COVID safe plan, everyone were welcomed by the master of ceremonies Margaret Tiller, following which the formal welcome to country was done by Eric Ellis and he did a wonderful job and narrated the story of the area in the traditional storytelling style and welcomed everyone there. Then of course the opening address by presiding officer and host of the event Councillor Sarah Hutton who spoke on what it meant in our becoming an Australian citizen she offered her Call: (07) 3192 5188

heartfelt congratulations to everyone as they officially commenced their new lives in Australia, she commented on becoming an Australian citizen which meant that you had right and ongoing commitment to Australia and will uphold its values and democratic beliefs , freedoms is one of Australia’s greatest strength is the sense of community so following counsellor Sarah Hutton , Milton Dick MP read the message from the honourable Alex Hawke MP, “we are immensely proud that you have achieved as a nation and we welcome you

in joining us, our history and culture has been forged over thousands of years first through the aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and more recently with people from all corners of the earth. After reading the message from Minister Alex Hawke, Milton Dick MP, welcomed everyone to the event which was followed by the first performance “I still call Australia home” by Isabella Foong whose is only 11 years old, presiding officer counsellor Sarah Hutton presented the conferees with Australian citizenship

certificates, all the new citizens came up to the stage to receive their certificates got their photos taken as they walked off. Mr Umesh Chandra OAM addressed the new citizens as the keynote speaker Mr Chandra spoke on his arrival in Australia and his journey thus far, from the humble beginning to where he is today and his speech was well received by everyone and lot of people came up to thank him, following his keynote speech the affirmation ceremony took place and Jessica Pugh MP ran the affirmation ceremony.

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Everyone was thanked at the closing ceremony by councillor Sarah Hutton who closed the ceremony and everyone stood up and once again Isabella form did the Australian National anthem, what a great voice she has, so that was the citizenship ceremony by Jindalee Rotary Club where 35 new citizens took up citizenship

and they came from many different countries including Bangladesh, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, Czech Republic, Ghana, Hong Kong, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, South Korea, New Zealand, Macedonia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Russian Federation, South Africa, Thailand, United Kingdom, United States and Vietnam.

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Arya Samaj Queensland

PANCH MAHAYAJNAS (5 Daily Duties) of a person

Jitendra Deo President ASQ

According to Vedic principles, a grihastha (householder) is expected to perform PANCH MAHAYAJNAS (5 Daily Duties) to the best of his/her capacity and ability. These Mahayajnas are briefly described below: (i) Brahma Yajna: It comprises studying and (a) preaching of Vedic scriptures, (b) morning & evening meditation, and (c) practice of yoga discipline.

(ii) Deva Yajna: It involves Agnihotra (Havan) which comprises feeding of fire with ghee and purifying herbs while reciting mantras from the Vedas. In the process of association with the learned and the good persons one can acquire knowledge and cultivate purity of thought, truthfulness, and similar other noble qualities. The substances of Agnihotra, such as, pure ghee, camphor, and other herbs, etc. Used in Havan keep the air fresh and pure. Agnihotra is useful for promoting health and intellect. The above two yajnas should be performed daily during morning at sunrise and during evening at sunset. some donations and food should be offered to the needy, poor deserving people, as part of the Dev Yajna. (iii) Pitri Yajana: It consists in serving the learned good teachers, Scholars, Parents, Old people, greats yogis and holy persons etc. This yajna is divided into two parts

i.e.. Shraddha and Tarpan, which are briefly explained as under: A. Shraddha: That by which truth is accepted and practiced is called Shraddha. Therefore, that which is done with the object of embracing truth is also called Shraddha. B. Tarpan: It means anything (in service etc.) done to one's parents, other elders (who are alive) to make them happy. It is of following three types: a. Brahma Tarpan: The learned men and women should be respected, honoured and served properly to make them happy. b. Rishi Tarpan; It consists in serving and honouring real teachers and their companions. c. Pitri Tarpan: It consists thoroughly satisfying pitras, by offering them regularly food, clothes, conveyance, etc. The pitras include parents, grandparents, learned people who promote knowledge, administer justice, provide security and further the

cause of truth and righteousness. It should be kept in view that Pitriyajna is meant for the living persons and not for the dead. The practice of offering oblations to dead parents, grandparents etc. is wrong and undesirable and it arises out of ignorance. (iv) Vaishwadeva Yajna : It involves offering of some part of cooked food to fire in the kitchen. such food should be sweet, and its purpose is to spread sweet smell and purify the air. Some food should also he offered to dogs, birds, insects etc. some food should also be offered to the needy hungry outside or other people who are distressed, disabled, and cannot earn their living. The purpose of this Yajna is to purify the air in the kitchen and to help animals and birds like stray dogs, cows, etc and those who are distressed and need food. (v) Atithi Yajna: An Atithi is one who comes unexpectedly.

In ancient days, a Sannyasi, a virtuous scholar and preacher of righteousness used to move around preaching knowledge for the good of all mankind. They would visit households without any prior information of the householder. It was the duty of the householder to offer them water, food, clothes, etc and to serve them and make them feel at ease. The sannyasi would impart proper knowledge and good advice to the householder and then move away for onward journey. The householder should ensure that he is serving and honouring only a genuine sannyasi. The performance of the above YAJNAS leads to several benefits, which include purification of air and environment, advancement of knowledge, service of the elders and the learned, help to the birds, animals, hungry and distressed needy person, etc. In short, it makes the life of the performer virtuous, peaceful,

and happy. It leads to refinement of character, promotion of righteousness and brings one closer to God. The performance of these YAJNAS, as part of daily duties, would, not only, bring progress and improvement in the life of an individual but it will also produce happiness in the society at large and the whole universe, as well. Yajna has a wider meaning also. Any good act performed for general welfare may be called 'YAJNA'. One should understand the meaning and true spirit of Yajna and perform these rituals and all good acts, as far as possible. In fact, one should make whole life as YAJNA by performing these acts of general welfare. Please contact President: Jitendra Deo 3273 3029 or Secretary: Sunil Dutt 5613 3410 for information on activities of Arya Samaj Queensland or log on: www.aryasamajqueensland. org/Facebook Arya Samaj Qld

Happy New Year and best wishes Namaste to all readers of Brisbane Indian Times. Happy New Year to all and may you all have a blessed 2022. I hope most of you have made some resolution for 2022, and please consider getting closer to reality of life, in terms of spirituality. Vedic verses state that people should know God, realisation of God should be the goal in life. Lack of knowledge and in some cases ignorance, mankind regard bodily pleasures,

acquisition of wealth, worldly love, being the goal, but there is much more to be achieved from this life as Humans for our progression to next life. Surfing through emails, I came across these ten awesome phrases that captivated my consciousness and I thought of sharing this. Everyone has ups and down in life, sometimes we get very frustrated, and lack of true knowledge can lead us into numerous difficulties. Precise deliberation

discovers a tiny issue or problem, which could be overcome in a moment. 1. Prayer is not a "spare wheel" that you pull out when in trouble, but it is a "steering wheel" that directs the right path throughout. 2. Why is a car's WINDSHIELD so large & the rear-view mirror so small? Because our PAST is not as important as our FUTURE. So, look ahead and move on. 3. Friendship is like a BOOK. It takes a few seconds to burn, but it takes years to

write. 4. All things in life are temporary. If going well, enjoy it, they will not last forever. If going wrong, don't worry, they can't last long either. 5. Old friends are Gold! New friends are diamonds! If you get a diamond, don't forget the gold! Because to hold a diamond, you always need a base of gold! 6. Often when we lose hope and think this is the end, GOD smiles from above and says, "Relax, sweetheart,

it's just a bend, not the end! 7. When GOD solves your problems, you have faith in HIS abilities; when GOD doesn't solve your problems, HE has faith in your abilities. 8. A blind person asked St. Anthony: "Can there be anything worse than losing eyesight?" He replied: "Yes, losing your vision!" 9. When you pray for others, God listens to you and blesses them, and sometimes, when you are safe and happy, remember that someone has prayed

for you. 10. WORRYING does not take away tomorrow's TROUBLES, it takes away today’s PEACE. Life is a coin, you can spend it anyway you wish, but you can only spend it once. Please contact President: Jitendra Deo 3273 3029 or Secretary: Sunil Dutt 5613 3410 for information on activities of Arya Samaj Queensland or log on: www. aryasamajqueensland.org/ Facebook Arya Samaj Qld.

JANAKI EASWAR Singer - Ambassador 12-Year-Old Janaki Easwar embarked on her musical journey early in her life. Janaki made TV history by becoming the youngest artist ever to go on ‘The Voice Australia’ and the first artist of Indian origin to do so!

Singer / Songwriter - Trailblazer

The Judges: The Voice Australia "I don't think you have any idea how good you actually are" - Rita Ora “That classical Indian side mixed with indie pop, for me, that's just such an edge, that's just such an

edge. I could tell it was a real musician up there” - Guy Sebastian “I didn’t realise how much existed inside of me, you have that power too and I feel that” - Jessica Mauboy

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HER STORY 12-Year-Old Janaki Easwar embarked on her musical journey early in her life. Janaki made TV history by becoming the youngest artist ever to go on ‘The Voice Australia’ and the first artist of Indian origin to do so. Her blind audition where she performed ‘Lovely’ by Billie Eilish gathered global attention. Born in Melbourne, Australia into a musical family, Janaki was introduced to various musical instruments and Indian Classical music at the age of 5 and has grown up listening to many different genres of music. When she developed an interest in western music at the age of 8, her parents took her to Jaanz International Singing

Academy, where she met many other talented young musicians. Coach and mentor David Jaanz has truly had a major impact on her music. Learning Carnatic music from Kalakruthi School of Music has given her exposure to different worlds

of music. Picking up her nylon stringed classical guitar, she started writing songs during 2020 lockdown. In July 2021, Janaki released her debut single, "Clown" with deep and profound lyrics and delicate vocal harmonies, the single is available on all major streaming platforms. 'The Voice Australia' has changed Janaki's life for good. Post- 'The Voice Australia', Janaki is working with music producers to release more of her original work of which she wrote and composed during the past year. She is also considering some exciting offers to collaborate with many wellknown music composers on their various projects.

Australia day and Indian Republic Day celebrations by the Indian Council of Australia, Queensland, Inc. (ICAQ) SANDGATE On 26th January 2022, the Indian Council of Australia, Queensland, Inc. (ICAQ) embarked on its maiden event and delivered successfully despite the COVID uncertainties making our President, Mr. Parminder Singh and Vice-President Dr. Venkat Pulla unable to attend in person. Thanks to the technology and facebook live they could be a part of the event remotely. It was a team effort that made this event a success. The team being: Advisors: Ms. Pinky Singh, Mr. Nikhil Reddy, Mr Avninder Singh, Mr. Gurdeep Singh, VicePresident: Dr. Venkat Rao Pulla, Vice-President: Mr. Sambit Dass, Treasurer: Mr. Srikar Reddy, Secretary: Mr. Ganesh Deshpande, PRO: Ms. Amrita Deshpande, Events Coordinator: Ms. Neetu Singh Suhag, IT, Media &Web Presence Coordinator: Mr. Sandeep Mozar, Spiritual Coordinator: Mr. Shaji Theckanath, Educational Coordinator: Dr. Amandeep Singh Pannu, Social Services Coordinator: Dr. Abraham Francis, Sports Coordinator: Mr. Deepinder Singh, Assistant Secretary: Mr. Bachu Prabakar, Member Joint Treasurer: Ms. Sudha Manian Sitar, Member Joint Event Coordinator: Mr. Mehul Siddhiwala. 26th January being both the Australia Day and Indian Republic Day, ICAQ organised the event. The theme of the Australia Day events this year was to celebrate the contributions of its citizens giving the essence that we are all part of the Story of Australia. It is about acknowledging and celebrating the contributions that every Australian makes to this contemporary and dynamic nation, from our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to those who have lived here for generations, to those who have come from all

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corners of the world to call Australia their home, and thus we reflect, respect, and celebrate. The maiden event for ICAQ was well attended by Federal, State, and local Members of Parliament as well as community members. We had in attendance Hon. Mr. Luke Howarth Member for Petrie Assistant Minister for Youth and Employment Services representing Hon. Mr. Alex Hawke MP, Minister for Immigration, citizenship, migrant services, and multicultural affairs, Ms. Anika Wells MP for Lilley, Deputy Chair of Joint Standing Committee on Northern Australia Deputy Chair of Publications Committee, Hon. Mr. Stirling Hinchliffe, Member for Sandgate, Minister for Tourism, Innovation and Sport and Minister Assisting the Premier on Olympics and Paralympics Sport and

Engagement, Cr. Mr. Jarred Cassidy (Deagon Ward), Leader of the Opposition in Council and Opposition Spokesperson on Council’s Economic Development and the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Committee and the Transport Committee and a member of the Environment, Parks and Sustainability Committee. Acting Inspector, Ms. Jeannie Murray was representing the Police Commissioner of Queensland, Ms. Katarina Carroll. Due to COVID and other unforeseen circumstances there were apologies from Mr. Bart Mellish, Member for Aspley Assistant Minister to the Premier for Veterans' Affairs and COVID Economic Recovery. Representing the premier of Queensland Hon. Ms. Annastacia Palaszczuk Minister for the Olympics. Hon. Mr. Peter Dutton MP, Minister for Defence,

Leader of the House, Hon. Ms. Leanne Linard, MP, Member for Nudgee Minister for Children and Youth Justice and Minister for Multicultural Affairs. The program was blessed by Song Women Maroochy Barambha of the Turrbal tribe. Buddha Charlie Chambers played the Didgeridoo as a part of the Welcome to Country. Song Women Maroochy Barambha also gave a speech on the brief history of Turrbal Tribe. On this Australia Day organized by ICAQ, 30 candidates walked proudly as Citizens of Australia at the Citizenship Ceremony. Out of which 4 were Indians and others came from 14 different countries. Cr. Mr. Jarred Cassidy was the presiding officer at the Citizenship Ceremony. The program also had an educational, engaging,

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interactive discussion panel on the topic of shared cultures and values with panelists Hon. Mr. Luke Howarth MP, Hon. Mr. Stirling Hinchliffe MP, Dr. Abraham Francis, professor in Social Services at James Cook University and Ms. Sudha Manian Sitar, A Sitar Player. The discussion panel was moderated by Amrita Deshpande who was also the MC of the entire event. Both Ministers spoke from the Australian perspective and as leaders of their respective ministerial portfolios while Dr. Abraham Francis represented the Indian Diaspora, as social worker and an academics, where as Ms Sudha Manian Sitar spoke from the women in arts and culture perspective. Indian Council of Australia, Queensland, Inc. was incorporated on 12th October 2021. The vision of

the organisation is to bring the diaspora together and provide valuable knowledge, help, and connection to various services to help them integrate better. ICAQ is an amalgam of many small and big associations and groups as well as individuals of Indian origin who live and have made Queensland their home. As migrants living in Queensland, they continue to contribute to agriculture, public services to the schools, higher education, medical profession, allied health, services sector, security, banking, and IT industry to name a few. Indian diaspora in Queensland represents the Twenty-nine states and seven union territories of India. And in its composition has several sub- groups, representing the home states and geographies across India and the globe from where they have travelled to make Queensland their home. ICAQ, mirrors that diversity and as a platform celebrates the diversity and identity of the Indian diaspora. ICAQ recognises the growing need to partake in productive diversity, lead successful endeavours and to live a life with heritage, comrades in multicultural Queensland. We at ICAQ would like to bridge the gap between government and our community by organising special programs and activities for Youth, Women, and Aged Care. Please visit www.ICAQ.org. au for more information as well as to become a member of the organisation. Please join our facebook group @ https://www.facebook.com/ groups/icaqueensland/ And follow our Facebook Page https://www.facebook. com/Indian-Council-ofAustralia-Queensland To watch the entire Facebook live video of the event, visit https://fb.watch/ aPDr7w-Bgd/

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KCR unlikely to receive and see off Modi at Hyderabad airport Modi is landing at Shamshabad at 2.15 pm on Saturday and would fly in a helicopter to the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics campus in Patancheru to inaugurate the 50th anniversary celebrations of the institution. Deviating from protocol norms, Telangana chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao is unlikely to receive and see off Prime Minister Narendra Modi who will be coming on a half-day visit to Hyderabad on Saturday. An official release from the chief minister’s office (CMO) said state minister for animal husbandry, fisheries, dairy development and cinematography Talasani Srinivas Yadav has been nominated as the minister-in waiting to receive and see off the prime minister. The chief minister has asked the minister to receive,

accompany and see off the prime minister on behalf of the state government. This is the schedule as of now, unless the chief minister changes his mind at the last moment,” an official from Yadav’s office said. Modi is landing at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport at Shamshabad at 2.15 pm on Saturday and would fly in a helicopter to the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) campus in Patancheru on the city outskirts to inaugurate the 50th anniversary celebrations of the institution. He would return to the airport at around 4.30 pm and from there, he would travel by road to Sriramanagaram, the ashram of Chinna Jeeyar Swamy, where he would dedicate to the nation the ‘Statue of Equality,’ the 216ft statue of 11th century Vaishnavaite saint Sri

Ramanujacharya. The chief minister, however, would be attending the Sri Ramanujacharya statue unveiling ceremony, along with the Prime Minister, according to a CMO spokesperson. The development comes in the wake of the latest outburst by the chief minister against Modi while reacting to the Union budget at a press conference on Tuesday. While making serious

Kerala gold smuggling case: Main accused says CM’s secretary was aware of her activities Talking to news channel Asianet, Swapna shot back saying he was aware of everything and he can’t wash off his hands like this. A day after excerpts of senior IAS officer M Sivasankar’s autobiography that detailed his trials and tribulations as an accused in the sensational gold smuggling case came out, main accused Swapna Suresh on Friday took strong exceptions to some of his comments and said he was “aware of everything”. In the excerpts, carried by a Malayalam literary magazine “Pachhakuthira”, Sivasankar claimed that he was not aware of Swapna’s links with the smuggling racket and he feels she cheated him. In the book, Sivasankar also denied all charges against him and claimed that main target of central agencies was Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan. Talking to news channel Asianet, Swapna shot back saying he was aware of everything and he can’t wash off his hands like this. “If he said I cheated him, it was totally wrong. I was branded as a bad woman by many and I never thought he will also be a part of them. He can’t be given a clean chit by branding me like this,” she said, adding that she did not read what he said in the book. When newsmen persisted with posers, she said she was close to him and he was aware of her activities. “He only gave me job in the space park. He gave me the job only after recognising my capability, not my degree. Even my bio-data for the job was corrected by

him and I met many persons suggested by him for the interview,” she said. “So, many people exploited me. I am also a victim. But I suffered everything in last two years and did not utter a word to media so far. But if some people think they can get away by sacrificing me I will not allow this to happen,” Swapna said in the interview with the news channel. When asked about Sivasankar’s claim that she trapped him by gifting an I-Phone on his birthday, she said she gifted so many other things and he took up only the phone since it turned an object of evidence in the case. “He was an important person in my life. I never thought he will disown me like this. He was aware of everything,” Swapna said. She also said she got some commission from the Life Mission project and they (she and Sivasankar) had a joint account to share this. She said she will say more when more details emerge after the release of the book. She also said at one point of time, Sivasankar was planning to take voluntary retirement and settle in the UAE. Despite repeated attempts, Sivasankar could not be contacted for his response.

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Meanwhile, a senior government official said the IAS officer did not take permission from the government to write the book as it was mandatory for civil servants to take permission of the government before giving an interview, writing a book or going public on an issue. Three years back, DGP Jacob Thomas was suspended from service for more than eight months for writing a book without permission. The gold smuggling case came to light on July 5, 2020 when the customs department seized 30 kg gold hidden in bathroom fittings in one of the consignments, camouflaged as diplomatic baggage, came in the name of the UAE consulate in Thiruvananthapuram. The CM’s principal secretary Sivasankar was implicated in the case by central agencies for his alleged association with prime accused Swapna. The case also saw the central and state governments locking horns several times with the latter even constituting a judicial commission against the ED, a first of its sort, alleging the agency’s bid to implicate many senior leaders including the CM. The high court later scrapped the judicial commission.

comments against Modi, KCR, as the chief minister is known, called upon the people of the country to throw the Modi government in Bay of Bengal. He, however, said he would follow the protocol during the Prime Minister’s visit to Hyderabad on February 5. This is the second time that KCR will not be receiving Modi as per the protocol. On November 28, 2020, too, the chief minister stayed away from Modi’s visit to

Hyderabad to inspect the Covid-19 vaccine-making facility at Bharat Biotech in Genome Valley. The PMO office had informed to the CMO then that KCR won’t have to come to the airport to receive Modi and only five persons including the chief secretary Somesh Kumar, Director General of Police M Mahendar Reddy, then Cyberabad Commissioner V C Sajjannar and Medchal District Collector Shweta Mohanty were allowed to receive the Prime Minister. On January 13 this year, KCR skipped the video conference convened by Modi with CMs of various states and senior officials to review the Covid-19 situation. Instead, he deputed health minister T Harish Rao and chief secretary Somesh Kumar to attend the meeting. Meanwhile, the Telangana police have made elaborate

security arrangements for the Prime Minister’s visit to Hyderabad on Saturday, keeping in view the recent unsavoury incident he had to face in Punjab. Around 7,000 police personnel, including Central teams, are being deployed as part of the security for Modi’s visit. DGP Mahender Reddy on Friday inspected the airport and the two venues where the Prime Minister would be going to oversee the security arrangements. At the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the ICRISAT, the Prime Minister will also inaugurate the Climate Change Research Facility on Plant Protection and ICRISAT’s Rapid Generation Advancement Facility. He will also unveil a specially designed logo of ICRISAT and launch a commemorative stamp issued on the occasion, the official note from ICRISAT said.

Barring slogan shouting by AIMIM workers, Friday prayers pass off peacefully in Hyderabad Hundreds of police forces, including those from Quick Response Team and Rapid Action Forces, were pressed into service and positioned in and around Charminar to avoid any untoward incident. Barring slogan shouting by activists of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) in protest against the Thursday’s firing on a convoy of party president and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi in Uttar Pradesh, situation remained peaceful the Friday prayers at historic Mecca Masjid in Hyderabad. Police made heavy security arrangements at the Mecca Masjid adjacent to Charminar, amid announcement by the AIMIM that a protest rally would be taken out soon after the prayers at the mosque. Under the auspices of Hyderabad deputy commissioner of police commissioner (south zone) Gaja Rao Bhupal, senior police officials supervised

security arrangements. Hundreds of police forces, including those from Quick Response Team and Rapid Action Forces, were pressed into service and positioned in and around Charminar to avoid any untoward incident. However, following instructions from Owaisi, the AIMIM activists withdrew their plan to take out rally. However, some youngsters raised slogans against the BJP government in Uttar Pradesh, blaming it for the attack on

the AIMIM chief, before being dispersed by police. Shops and restaurants in and around Charminar and Mecca Masjid remained closed till the afternoon, in the wake of the proposed protest rally by the AIMIM. BJP legislator from Hyderabad T Raja Singh said Owaisi’s provocative speeches might have led to the attack on him. “However, we don’t support the firing at the MP and condemn the same,” he told reporters.

Hijab Row: Congress To Raise Issue In Assembly, Says Siddaramaiah Bengaluru: After female students wearing 'Hijab' were denied entry into Bhandarkas' College in Karnataka's Kundapura, Leader of the Opposition in Karnataka Assembly and Congress leader Siddaramaiah on Friday alleged that the aim of this is to deprive Muslim girls of education. "This is the plan of depriving female students of education. The aim is to deprive female children of

education," Siddaramaiah told the mediapersons in Bengaluru. On being asked about Hindu students wearing saffron shawls in protest against the use of hijab in the college, he said, "Wearing a Saffron shawl has been in practice for a few days, but wearing a Hijab has been in practice for several years. The issue is sub judice in the court of law. The hijab has been around for a long time," he said.

PM Modi unveils hologram at India Gate on 125th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose

At a time when the entire nation is marking the 125th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, PM Narendra Modi said,” I am glad to share that his grand statue, made of granite, will be installed at India Gate. This would be a symbol of India’s indebtedness to him”. Till the grand statue of

Netaji Bose is completed, a hologram statue of his would be present at the same place. PM unveiled the hologram statue on 23rd January, Netaji’s birth anniversary. Prime minister paid tributes to Netaji Bose at Parliament House. He said, “Best wishes to all the

countrymen on the occasion of Brave Day. My respectful tribute to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose on his 125th birth anniversary. I bow to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on his Jayanti. Every Indian is proud of his monumental contribution to our nation. Mr. Modi also conferred the Subhas Chandra Bose

Aapda Prabhandhan Puraskar, or awards for disaster management, for 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022 on individuals and institutes for their work in the field of disaster management. The winners for 2022 were the Gujarat Institute of Disaster Management and Prof. Vinod Sharma,

a senior professor at the Indian Institute of Public Administration and the vice-chairperson of the Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority. Speaking about the evolution of disaster management in the country, Mr. Modi said there was a holistic approach now, as

opposed to earlier when it was akin to “digging a well when thirsty”. He said upcoming infrastructure projects, like the Char Dham highway project in Uttarakhand and expressways in Uttar Pradesh, were being constructed to be disaster resilient.

India Republic Day flag rising at Indian Consulate office TARINGA On 26th January, at 9:00 AM sharp, the Indian flag was raised at Indian Consulate Office in Swan Road. Every Republic Day and every Independence Day, the flag is raised at Indian Consulate office at 9:00 AM. This year as we

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are in COVID 19 situations, the number of people who could attend the event was limited. This year’s program began by Doctor Varghis Singh welcoming everyone to the event. And after his welcome address, he

invited. Mrs Archana Singh, the honorary counsel for India in Queensland and Professor Sarva Daman Singh to raise the Indian flag. After the flag raising, National anthems of India and Australia was sung. After the flag raising.

Doctor Varghish Singh invited Mrs Archana Singh to address the gathering. Mrs Archana Singh, Honorary Consul for India in Queensland, spoke well on the event, she said “ As we celebrate India’s Republic day and

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also Australia Day , on 26th January 1950 , India was declared a secular , sovereign democratic republic wedded to the idea of equality and after her speech, Doctor Varghish invited Professor Sarva Daman Singh to address

the gathering. Professor Singh is a very polished and refined speaker, and everyone looks forward to his speech at every event. And once again, he did not disappoint people by delivering a wonderful speech.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022 — 39

FOCUS ON FIJI

Activist tells minister to look at ‘triggers’ Human rights activist Shamima Ali has called on Health Minister Dr Ifereimi Waqainabete to look into the triggers behind the exodus of nurses. She claimed the resignations were a serious issue, as it could place an enormous strain on the health system. She echoed claims made by the Fiji Nursing Association that the resignations were due to stress, fatigue, not being able to take leave, given time in lieu instead of overtime but not being able to take the time in lieu when they ask for it and not being compensated for the work that they were doing. Dr Waqainabete said there were about 300 nurse vacancies and the ministry would cushion these vacancies by employing new graduates, rehiring retired nurses and re-engaging nurses. She echoed claims made by the Fiji Nursing Association that the resignations were due to stress, fatigue, not being

able to take leave, given time in lieu instead of overtime but not being able to take the time in lieu when they ask for it, and not being compensated for the work that they were doing. While the Health Minister said there were 300 nursing vacancies, he could not provide a figure on the number that resigned over the

past year. He said, according to a brief he received six weeks ago, 25 nurses had resigned. “From then ’til now, I do not know what the numbers are,” he said during a news conference where he was asked about the nursing situation. Dr Waqainabete said the health staff had faced a

challenging two years and the ministry had tried to support them as much as they could. “Recently, we have been asking them to start taking their leave again.” When quizzed if nurses had resigned because they were not properly compensated, Dr Waqainabete said: “I don’t receive the resignation letter, but I also know that in some instances the resignations were very short. “I was told of some resignation letters that said thank you for the opportunity and that I’m leaving for personal reasons.” Ms Ali claimed resigning nurses did not criticise the ministry or Government out of fear of victimisation in the reference process of the new jobs they sought. “This is a very serious issue, the resignations mean that the load for divisional hospitals and their subdivisional hospitals and health centres and nursing stations is now more than doubled,” she said.

Carrier drivers concerned that they have not received licences and being told by LTA official that they can only apply for licences to operate from Point A to B Carrier drivers from Labasa asked the Acting Prime Minister, Aiyaz SayedKhaiyum to look into their concerns as they had applied for carrier licences within Vanua Levu in 2018 and are yet to get the licences by Land Transport Authority. While speaking at the Anuve Hindu Temple in Bulileka, one of the representatives said they are also concerned that they want licences to operate within Vanua Levu but they are being told by an LTA official that they can only apply for licences to operate from Point A to B.

The man says there were objections by some bus companies but the LTA Board had later said they cannot do that.

He also says they had paid $66 for the applications in 2018, and have been told that will be refunded and it will be used again for the new

application where they had to include 2 passport photos, a base letter, police clearance and medical report. In response, SayedKhaiyum says bus companies cannot object to carrier licences being given out. An LTA official in the talanoa session said he will seek legal advice on the issues being raised on licences given from Point to B, and Sayed-Khaiyum said they will discuss further on this. The carrier drivers say they want the matter to be addressed urgently.

Man who allegedly killed Rakiraki farmer to be produced in court today A man will be produced in the Rakiraki Magistrates Court today for the murder of the 28-year-old farmer whose body was found in Dreketi Settlement, Nalawa, Rakiraki on Monday. He is charged with one count of murder. Police had earlier said that the farmer was found lying motionless in a compound on Monday afternoon.

Former FijiFirst MP, Vijendra Prakash pleads not guilty

5 SODELPA MP’s had earlier pleaded not guilty to charges of giving false information to a public servant and obtaining financial advantage. Former FijiFirst MP, Vijendra Prakash has today pleaded not guilty to giving false information to a public servant and obtaining financial advantage. SODELPA MP’s Ratu Suliano Matanitobua, Niko Nawaikula, Salote Radrodro, Peceli Vosanibola and Simione Rasova had earlier pleaded not guilty to their charges of

giving false information to a public servant and obtaining financial advantage. Another SODELPA MP, Adi Litia Qionibaravi who is also charged with the two offences was not present in court today as she is ill. The six SODELPA MPs and the former FijiFirst MP allegedly claimed a combined total of $186,749.20 in parliamentary allowances that they were not entitled to. The case will be called again on the 14th of this month.

37,471 people assisted through Bus Fare Concession program

Murgessan Pillay appointed as new Oceania Hospitals CEO Murgessan Pillay has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Oceania Hospitals. Pillay took on this role after being in the Acting General Manager position for 3 months. Oceania Hospitals Chairman, Dr. Wame Baravilala says they are fortunate to have someone with his capability leading the hospital at this time of its critical growth phase. He says Pillay has over 10 years extensive business, leadership, governance and risk management

experience. Dr. Baravilala

40 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022

further

says they look forward to his valuable contribution as they

continue to build Oceania Hospitals into a premier medical services provider. He adds the Board is confident that with Pillay’s experience and strong leadership skills, Oceania will have smooth implementations of major initiatives planned for 2022. Pillay was the Chief Financial Officer at Oceania Hospitals before taking on the role of acting General Manager. He was also the Chief Financial Officer at Williams and Gosling Group and was the Deputy CFO for BSP Life.

37,471 senior citizens aged 60 years and above and persons with disabilities have benefited from the Bus Fare Concession program, which was introduced in 2011. Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation, Rosy Akbar says in recognition of the contribution of senior citizens and persons with disabilities to nation-building, the government had introduced this assistance to help this clientele with their travelling.

She says this is in partnership with the Fiji Bus Operators Association in promoting an inclusive society and leaving no one behind in its effort to assist all Fijians. Akbar reiterated that the needs of our vulnerable population are very important to the Government. The Fijian Government has allocated $5 million in this current fiscal year for the Bus Fare Concession program.

Echoes of Fiji a book by Utkatu Naiker Launched in Brisbane

The memoirs of Utkatu Naiker, a Fiji Indian resident of Brisbane, was launched at Sunnybank on 23 January 2022 by Mr. Vijendra Kumar, former Editor of the Fiji Times. It is titled ‘Echoes from Fiji: Global Footprints of a Girmit Grandson’ and covers a life extending over 80 years, lived in Fiji, Bangkok, Nairobi and Australia. The memoirs is a tribute to the girmitiyas, the Indian indentured labourers brought to Fiji by the British government from 1879 to provide labour for establishing an economy in Fiji after the Chiefs ceded their country to the British Crown in 1874. It describes his growing up in Vatamai, a hilly, infertile area after the family’s cane farm in nearby Lovu, Lautoka was declared a Native Reserve, his observance of some aspects of the gradual emergence of an Indian community in the post-indenture period, his schooling under the British colonial education system, his training as a Land Surveyor and Town Planner in Australia, his experiences during the years before and after the colony’s independence from Britain and his professional service in Fiji and the United Nations at ESCAP in Bangkok and at the global headquarters of the UN Centre for Human Settlements (Habitat) in Nairobi. It also describes the obstacles he faced in Fiji from issues concerning land policies and housing affordability. The book starts with two chapters on his growing up and training, followed by a structured mixture of four chapters on his professional work, one on coaching the Suva District soccer team, two on living in Suva and internationally, and three small concluding chapters, one of which reflects his thoughts on the girmit, the widely used common name for the indenture system. The highlights of his professional career consist of three actions. He established the practice of town planning in Fiji with local governments. In 1965 he prepared the Lautoka Call: (07) 3192 5188

background to the steady emigration that has created the Fiji-Indian diaspora in the developed countries of the old British Empire. There are references to the girmit at the beginning and end of the book, including success in finding his family roots in India.

in the Government in the 1960s and 70s and the growing political and social insecurity under which the Indian population lived. This provides some

Planning Scheme in which he incorporated a provision for foreshore reclamation, designed the market-bus station complex for Nadi which encouraged intensive commercial development in the area, and provided commercial frontage facing the Sigatoka market. He also initiated a substantial change to town planning legislation to address changing development trends. At the Housing Authority he managed, over a 10year period, the creation of ten suburbs in the SuvaNausori corridor which led to the declaration of Nasinu as a Town. This program included the construction of the Housing Authority headquarters at Valelevu to serve as the nucleus for a future civic and commercial centre. In Lautoka he managed the 10-year project for the redevelopment of the CSR Company’s large Drasa-Vitogo unplanned settlement extending across the southern half of the city from Waiyavi to Field 40. These projects and smaller ones in Labasa, Ba and Nadi provided secure, affordable housing to hundreds of families. At the UNCHS he undertook a series of functions with increasing responsibility. For ten

Comment from Vijendra Kumar, Former Editor of Fiji Times “UTKATU NAIKER is, to the best of my knowledge, the only person from Fiji who was head-hunted by the

United Nations Secretariat in New York to take up an executive position in one of its agencies. Because of his qualifications and expertise as a surveyor, town planner and a track record in low-cost housing schemes, he was appointed Human Settlements Officer at UN’s Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific in Bangkok in 1981. Three years later, he was promoted a senior executive of the newly established UN Centre for Human Settlements, also called Habitat, in Nairobi”

years he coordinated the implementation of the UN Global Strategy for Shelter under which he provided guidance to many governments for replacing their top-down housing policies with enabling strategies which provided access to secure land tenure, loan finance and services to people so they could build their own houses through self-help and various forms of community participation. He also promoted the application of the Housing Indicators for use by national and local governments and civil society to assess the success of new housing policies. He was the focal point for NGO relations on human settlements matters and was the Chief of the Habitat Foundation, the extra-budgetary source for supporting programs executed by UNCHS. He retired from the UN after 17 years but, due to the status of the political situation in Fiji ten years after the 1987 coup, he settled in Australia. In addition to the substance of his professional life, he briefly mentions community service actions in Fiji as a soccer referee and coach, inaugurating the Suva North Lions Club and building the Nadera Temple. He also covers some aspects of changes www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022 — 41

Kangana Ranaut takes a dig at Salman Khan hosted Bigg Boss at the launch of her reality show Lock Upp- “This is not your big brother’s house”

AKSHAY KUMAR’s BACHCHAN PANDEY SET TO BRING ACTION. COMEDY. ROMANCE. DRAMA. THIS HOLI!

Actor - director - producer Kangana Ranaut is all set to add another feather to her cap as she will soon be seen as a host of a reality show. The actress will be making her web debut with ALT Balaji and MX Player's fearless reality show Lock Upp- Badass Jail, Atyaachari Khel. In a neverseen-before reality show, 16 controversial celebrities will be put together in a lock-up for months and will be stripped of their amenities. Lock Upp will also have a celebrity jailer whose identity has yet not been unveiled. Speaking at the event, Kangana took a dig at

Megastar Akshay Kumar has started 2022 on a trailblazing note, exciting fans with his film announcements. Just a week ago he teased audiences with the announcement of Dharma Productions’ SELFIEE, where he teams up with Emraan Hashmi. The Megastar has now shared two new posters and the release date for his much awaited action-comedy, Bachchan Pandey, which also stars Kriti Sanon in the lead. Helmed by Farhad Samji and backed by Sajid Nadiadwala, Bachchan Pandey will hit screens on Holi, this 18th March 2022. Taking to his social media handles, Akshay Kumar shared the posters, tweeting "Action Comedy Romance Drama L-O-A-D-I-N-G this Holi! #SajidNadiadwala's #BachchanPandey in cinemas on 18th March 2022. Directed by @farhadsamji." In the first poster, Akshay Kumar looked menacing in

Salman Khan hosted reality show Bigg Boss. "Ye koi aapke bade bhai ka ghar nahi hai,

yeh mera jail hai (This is not your big brother's house, this is my jail). I will have files of

every contestant and their truth," she said. Further talking about the show marking her OTT debut, Kangana said, "For a long time, I wanted to do something on OTT but I didn’t have any clarity to what I wanted to do. When Ekta called and narrated the idea I really liked it." "In most of my films, I play larger-than-life characters. I never got a chance to interact with the audience at my level. I had Twitter but I have been banned from there (laughs). So I thought this show would allow me to interact with the people," she added.

After Shabana Azmi, Jaya Bachchan tests Covid positive; shooting of Karan Johar’s Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani postponed again Jaya Bachchan who was spared the Covid19 virus when her entire family— her husband Amitabh, son Abhishek and daughterin-law Aishwarya—were infected in 2020 has got the virus. The project that gets most directly affected is Karan Johar’s multi-starrer Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani where Shabana Azmi and Jaya Bachchan star in a pivotal role. The shooting of the next

schedule in Delhi has been postponed. Says a source, “The shooting schedule for Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani was to begin on 2 February and end on 14 February. First Shabana Azmi tested positive and now Jaya Bachchan. Karan has now called off the schedule. He doesn’t want to take a risk with the rest of the cast and crew.” Like they say, Jaan Hai Toh Jahaan Hai.

Gangubai Kathiawadi trailer: Alia Bhatt ROCKS the show; Sanjay Leela Bhansali gets into a light hearted zone Sanjay Leela Bhansali has always been a prolific filmmaker but he has been on another level since Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-leela (2013). With each passing film, he out did himself in terms of impact and box office. His last film Padmaavat (2018) was a box office blockbuster and hence expectations are immense from Gangubai Kathiawadi. The film faced numerous delays and it's all set to release on February 25. The trailer will be out tomorrow and Bollywood Hungama got a sneak peek. And we can confidently say that it's a film to watch out for. What one immediately notices is that unlike the other Sanjay Leela Bhansali films, Gangubai Kathiawadi doesn't seem as intense. The background score has a light hearted entertaining vibe. Though the film is set in a red light area, the treatment is quite commercial and this is sure to benefit the film at the box office. What also is impressive is of course Alia Bhatt playing the lead role. She

owns the character and is unlike anything she has essayed before. The character is badass but is sensitive. Alia brings out both sides beautifully and also raises laughs with her one liners. Ajay Devgn's look was unveiled earlier in the day and his presence elevates the impact. His sole dialogue shows that his benevolent character is in the same zone

42 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022

as Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai (2010) and hence, it'll help in upping the buzz. The article couldn't be complete without mentioning the surprise of the trailer Vijay Raaz. His character reminds one of Sadashiv Amrapurkar's Maharani act from Sadak (1991). As Raziabai, his character of a eunuch seems powerful and her confrontation with

Gangubai can make for a great drama. Women centric films often have had difficulty in finding audiences. Gangubai Kathiawadi trailer indicates that here's a film, driven by a heroine, which can work big time at the box office. If all goes well, Gangubai Kathiawadi has the ability to emerge as the first major HIT of 2022!

an edgy avatar. His intense look is complemented with the new posters featuring a smouldering Akshay Kumar looking ready for action, and a poster of him atop a tractor with an army of men equally ready to roll! Akshay Kumar has been unstoppable at the box office and screens throughout 2021, and is all set to entertain fans this year with a slate of releases featuring an eclectic array of characters and genres such as in Prithiviraj, Bachchan Pandey, Raksha Bandhan, Ram Setu and Oh My God! 2.

Brahmastra assets to be unveiled all through the year till the release; Dharma Productions CEO Apoorva Mehta says- “We are very confident of the film” Ayan Mukerji’s directorial Brahmastra is one of the most awaited films of the year. After multiple delays owing to the time taken in the making of the film and due to the pandemic, the film is now set on releasing in theatres on September 9, 2022. Headlined by Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt, the film also stars Amitabh Bachchan, Mouni Roy with Nagarjuna, and Shah Rukh Khan in special appearances. The film is being coproduced by Dharma Productions and the makers have planned an elaborate marketing strategy to promote the magnum opus. In December, the makers of the film organised a grand event to unveil the logo, release date, and first look of Ranbir Kapoor as Shiva in the film. The event was graced by Ayan, Ranbir, and Alia and the first asset received an overwhelming response. Recently, while talking to Bollywood Hungama, Apoorva Mehta, CEO of Dharma Productions, spoke about the release strategy of the film. "We are very confident of the film. We spent a lot of time making it. I think Fox and Disney are very strongly involved with us at every level. I mean, they are driving this film. There are big plans about how we want to release this film." "We are really excited because we did a really breathtaking and impactful launch of the logo and the release date. And now I think we have formed many interesting marketing ideas and plans, all of which will keep unfolding as we

come," he added. While he did not reveal when the world will be able to witness yet another glimpse from the film, Mehta assured, "There's a lot of stuff that is under production, and it is going to be coming continuously through the year as we near the release." Brahmastra Part one is the first part of a 3-part film franchise and the beginning of India’s first original universe – the Astraverse. It is a new original cinematic universe inspired by deeply rooted concepts and tales in Indian mythology but set in the modern world, with epic storytelling of fantasy, adventure, good vs evil, love, and hope; all told using cutting edge technology and never-seen-before visual spectacles. Produced by Fox Star Studios, Dharma Productions, Prime Focus, and Starlight Pictures the magnum opus will release theatrically on 09.09.2022 across 5 Indian languages – Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada with a stellar ensemble cast of Nagarjuna Akkineni, Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Mouni Roy, and Amitabh Bachchan.

८ जनवरी को कुइं सलैंड में भारत के ७५ आज़ादी के अमृत महोत्सव को ऑनर्र यी कॉन्सलट श्रीमती अर्चना सिंह के सौजन्य व भारतीय उच्चायोग द्वारा अनुमति से हिं दी भाषा के प्रति प्रेम व निष्ठा से व FICQ के अध्यक्ष आदरणीय श्याम दास जी व श्रीमती अर्चना सिंह जी के अथक प्रयास से व आदरणीय गरिमा शेखावत जी के कुशल संचालन में व स्वामी आत्मेंशानंद जी के आशीर्वाद से "विश्व हिं दी दिवस " को बहुत उत्साह से मनाया गया । यह कार्य केवल एक व्यक्ति द्वारा सम्भव नहीं था । सभी अभिभावको , बच्चों , वेदांत सेंटर

विश्व हिंदी दिवस २०२२

के कार्यकर्ता व अन्य आदरणीय व्यक्तियो के सहयोग से हुआ । FICQ के प्रेसिडें ट श्याम दास जी ने कार्यक्रम को बहुत उत्साह से आरम्भ किया व BSK के नन्हें प्यारे बच्चों ने "निर्वाण शतकम " श्लोक अपनी मीठी वाणी में प्रस्तुत किया । मेअर ओफ़ इप्स्विच आदरणीय टे रसा हार्डिं ग ने वहाँ आ कर अपनी प्रोत्साहन से भरे व्याखान से कार्यक्रम को कृताथ किया। नन्ही आइशी द्वारा "वन्देमातरम " का गान बहुत मधुर रहा । प्रोफ़े स्सर सर्व दमन सिंह जी ने अपनी क्लिष्ट हिं दी में अपने शब्दों से सभी का मन जीत लिया । उन की कही बातें आत्मसात ् करने

योग्य थी । कवयित्री मधु खन्ना जी की भावपूर्ण कविता को सभी ने सराहा । एक एक पंक्ति अर्थपर्ण ू थी । आदरणीय जोश टे रंट ने गांधी जी के बतलाये "वचन " सुनाये व बहुत ही मिठी कविता से सभी का मन जीत लिया । ईशान के शब्द व इतानी , सुआस्तिका व अवयुक्त द्वारा प्रस्तुत नाटक ने सभी का मन मोह लिया । सम्पदा द्वारा बहुत ही रोचक प्रशनावली से सारा हॉल आनंदित हो उठा अंत में " एफ आइ सी क्यू " के प्रेसिडें ट श्याम दास ने कार्यक्रम का समापन करते हुये यही कामना कि हम अपनी भाषा को सीखें , बोले व आगे बड़ाये ।

Kavita ji

Call: (07) 3192 5188

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022 — 43

Should you get tested for hepatitis B or hepatitis C? • In Australia, more than 222,000 people are living with hepatitis B and around 122,264 people are living with hepatitis C. Chronic hepatitis B should be managed by doctors through regularly liver check-ups. Hepatitis C can be cured and at the end of 2020 only 47% of people with the infection had received treatment. Many people with hepatitis B or C do not know they have the infection it due to a lack of symptoms with these infections. Many people only find out they have the infection when it starts damaging their liver or they develop a cancer Hepatitis B and hepatitis C are very common infections, particularly

in people born overseas. Hepatitis B and hepatitis C are blood borne viruses that mean they can be spread from one person to another through contact with the blood of a person with the infection, such as • Sharing razors and

toothbrushes • Using unsterile medical equipment (particularly in another country) including dental treatment, vaccinations • Using unsterile tools for tattooing, body or ear-piercing cosmetic

procedures in Australia and overseas • Having had a blood transfusion overseas In addition, Hepatitis B can be sexually transmitted. You cannot tell just by looking at someone if they have the infection, or you may feel well when you have the infection, only a specific blood test can tell you. If you were born overseas and you are no sure if you have hepatitis B or C you should get tested. It is important to know so that you can: • Get appropriate monitoring regularly to prevent serious complications (for hepatitis B)

• Get treated if needed (for hepatitis B) • Get CURED if you have hepatitis C • Be vaccinated (for hepatitis B) to prevent you ever getting infected • Prevent passing it to another person accidentally It’s easy to find if you have hepatitis B or hepatitis C, ask your GP for a blood

test. It is free to check if you have a Medicare Card. If you would like more information, please go to our webpage at www.eccq. com.au/bbv or contact our Queensland Health funded program at The Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland. Phone: 07 3844 9166 Email: health@eccq.com.au

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

BEAUTY USES FOR VASELINE and gently tug to remove the wad sans snags.

Nimisha Modi

14. Keep lipstick off your teeth Rocking a bold lip is fun until you realize it’s been on your teeth all day. Prevent this altogether by spreading a thin layer of Vaseline over your chompers before applying your lipstick. The jelly will create an invisible barrier that the color won’t stick to.

Hetvi Hair & Beauty 0412350013

Hey Girls, we’re always looking for beauty products that multitask, so imagine our delight when we rediscovered a household staple that addresses so many of our daily issues. We’re talking about Vaseline. Vaseline is made from a mixture of mineral oils and waxes, which, create a protective barrier to help the skin heal and retain moisture. But it also do much more. Whether you’re looking to soothe a cut, rock a glossy lid or a treat a sunburn, uses for Vaseline.

15. Create a flavored lip gloss Remember those funflavored glosses of your youth? Make your own by combining a powder-based food mix (e.g., Kool Aid) and some petroleum jelly to create yours.

1. MOISTURIZE HEAD TO TOE After showering, apply it anywhere you see dry, flaky skin. For cracked heels, put on a pair of socks to lock in the moisture (and prevent future blisters later on). 2. Remove eye makeup Don’t have makeup remover at your disposal? Just massage some Vaseline onto your lids and wipe that mascara away using a cotton pad. 3. Highlight your cheekbones There’s no need for a pricey highlighter when you have Vaseline right in your medicine cabinet. Pat some onto the tops of your cheeks to create a dewy, light-catching look. (Just be careful if you have oily skin– you don’t want to clog your pores.) 4. Change the texture of your cosmetics Vaseline is a great way to transform your matte or powder products into creams. Just combine the loose pigments with the jelly

to create your own custom cream eyeshadow, blush or tinted balm. 5. Counteract split ends Too much exposure to the sun, heat or chlorine from the pool can cause your hair to dry out, fast. Add a pinch of Vaseline to the ends for extra moisture and shine 6 Smooth down flyaways Isn’t the only thing that can help you tame your brows. A small dab of Vaseline on a Q-tip will do the trick just as well.

the mess it leaves behind on your skin. A light coating of petroleum jelly around your hairline or your cuticles will prevent any staining from dyes or polishes. 9. Prolong your perfume Give your fragrance lasting power by dabbing some Vaseline on your pulse points before spritzing on your favorite perfume.

7. Define your lashes No mascara, no problem. Apply a little jelly on your lashes and comb through for a natural sheen.

10. Prevent selftanning streaks No one wants embarrassing streaks from a self-tanner. Cover any dry spots (i.e., around your knees, elbows and feet) to prevent an uneven application.

8. Avoid skin stains The worst part about an at-home hair or nail color is

11. Create a DIY scrub A simple DIY for when your skin needs a little TLC:

44 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022

Mix one tablespoon of sea salt or sugar and a spoonful of Vaseline to make your very own exfoliant. Put the paste on your lips (or anywhere on your body that needs smoothing) and gently massage before washing it off. Surprisingly smoother, glowing skin.

16. SOOTHE AN ITCHY SCALP Reduce itching and dandruff by massaging a small amount of Vaseline into your scalp before washing your hair as usual. (Note: Using too much can make it difficult to remove, so make sure you use no more than a dime-size amount; for a deeper cleanout add a teaspoon of baking soda to your shampoo.) 17. Groom facial hair Calling all moustache aficionados: A spot of Vaseline can keep your facial hair in check. Use it alone or combine it with some beeswax for added hold.

12. Keep shampoo away from your eyes No more wishing you made your dry shampoo last one more day. Just apply some jelly above your eyebrows and watch the suds repel off to the sides of your face and away from your eyes.

18. Hydrate your under-eyes In a pinch, a dab of Vaseline will help lock in moisture while you sleep so that you wake up to fresh peepers, even when you run out of eye cream.

13. Remove chewing gum from hair Remember doing this as a child? Coat the gum and surrounding hair with a generous dollop of Vaseline

19. Relieve irritation Whether you’re dealing with sunburn or razor burn, petroleum jelly can help. Tip: Stick the jar in the freezer beforehand and apply

the cold jelly to your legs, forehead or any irritated spots for instant soothing. 20. Block swimmer’s ear If you swim a lot and want to keep unwanted moisture out of your ears, try this: Coat two cotton balls with petroleum jelly, mold them to fit each ear and enjoy the rest of your swim. 21. CURE MINOR INJURIES The top use for Vaseline? To heal any minor cuts and burns. Remember it’s best to clean and disinfect the area before application to prevent infections. 22. Relieve diaper rash If your baby is dealing with diaper rash, clean the area, pat skin dry and put Vaseline over the sore spots to relieve some of the sting. 23. Ease back pain No heating pad in sight? Heat a scoop of Vaseline in the microwave until it’s warm (two minutes or so) before massaging some onto your back for a warming effect. 24. Help heal new tattoos Similar to minor cuts and burns, putting jelly on new tattoos can help speed up the healing process by keeping the area smooth and hydrated. TO KEEP IN MIND Although it’s important to use it for external purposes only. Apart from that, always remember to clean your skin properly and allow it to dry before application. With these simple precautions, you can enjoy the many benefits of Vaseline. See you girls next month, in the meantime call me on 0412350013 to book any appointments.

From Kuraby to Cambridge: Brisbane Teen on Path to Success It’s a long way from the streets of Kuraby to the hallowed halls of Christ’s College at Cambridge University, but 18-year-old Neha Pauly will soon be making that journey after navigating the disruption of the Covid pandemic to secure an admission to the prestigious institution. Neha recently graduated from Brisbane State High, topping the entire state of QLD in Modern History and Philosophy - scoring a perfect 100 in each subject. Her achievement came despite a challenging two-year period for students, especially seniors, dealing with periodic school closures and pivots to online learning due to Covid. She has been rewarded with an admission to Cambridge – a rare honour – where she will study political science. Christ’s College is among the most highly regarded at Cambridge, with a history dating back to the 15th century AD and a long list of famous alumni that includes Charles Darwin and John Milton.

Neha recently graduated from Brisbane State High, topping the entire state of QLD in Modern History and Philosophy scoring a perfect 100 in each subject. Her achievement came despite a challenging twoyear period for students, especially seniors, dealing with periodic school closures and pivots to online learning due to Covid. Neha’s family are over the moon with her amazing achievement. The Pauly family are of Indian heritage and are part of Brisbane’s flourishing Malayali community. They immigrated to Australia in 2012 and settled in Kuraby. Neha said, “I am excited about getting into Cambridge and am very much looking forward to the experience. Whilst I will miss my family

and friends being so far away, I am happy to be following my dream of studying politics at Cambridge under distinguished professors like Dr Duncan Bell.” “In the future I hope to work in politics and diplomacy.” she said. James Martin MP, Member for Stretton said, “The whole Stretton community are very proud of Neha’s achievement. She has studied very hard and is a very smart and capable young person. I know she will succeed at Cambridge.” “Her success is the result of years of hard work on her part but is also a credit to the quality of our public education system in Queensland. She has done her community and her state proud,” he said. “It is not surprising to see Queenslanders of Indian heritage succeeding in our local community. They continue to make significant contributions to all aspects of life in Queensland, whether that be in business, education, the arts and culture, sports, or socially. Neha is a great example of this,” he said.

Gita Chanting Prize Ceremony by Chinmaya Mission Brisbane The prize distribution ceremony of Gita chanting competition, organised by Chinmaya Mission Brisbane, was held at The Oxley Bowls Club in Brisbane on Sunday February 6th 2022, in the divine presence of Pujya Swami Swaroopanandaji – the Global Head of Chinmaya Mission and Pujya Swami Shrikarananda – the resident teacher for Chinmaya Mission in NSW, ACT, SA and QLD, along with the other devotees and sevaks and sevikas. Over 100 children participated in Annual Geeta Chanting Competition held across Australia. The competition was held for students from Classes LKG to

Adults, split into 7 categories and held via Zoom. The students were asked

to memorise verses from Chapter 2 and the Finals were held on March 7th 2021.

Aarohi Ahuja (age 7) from Brisbane came 1st all over Australia in her category.

The following students were recognised for their outstanding achievement in the competition:

Name

Category

Award

Aarohi Ahuja

BalaKrishna (Pre-Kindy – yr1)

1st Prize- National (all over Australia) & Rank 2- Regional (Qld,SA,WA)

Chelsea Bhat

BalaKrishna (Pre-Kindy – Yr1)

Rank 3- Regional (Qld,SA,WA)

Tanisha Gudigar

Kanaiya (Yr 1 - Yr 4)

National Finalist (4th Place)

Medhansh Ahuja

Navneet (Yr 5 – Yr 7)

Rank 1- Regional (Qld, SA, WA) National Finalist (4th Place)

Keshav Siraparapu

Navneet (Yr 5 – Yr 7)

Rank 2- Regional (Qld, SA,WA) National Finalist (4th Place)

The sevika’s recognised for their seva towards teaching the Geeta Chanting to the participants in Brisbane were Sevika Anu Suresh, Sevika Pramila Sagar, Sevika Manju Koka, Sevika Jyotsna Unni & Sevika Chitra Ahuja Call: (07) 3192 5188

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022 — 45

February-2022

Aries ( 21st March to 20th April )

Taurus ( 21st April to 21st May )

Gemini ( 22nd May to 21st June )

This month would be a typical one for students. You must be patient and give your all without opposing elders or teachers to keep your strength. The transits of Mars and Saturn would be beneficial to one's career and professional advancement. In terms of fitness, this month would be mediocre. It would be best if you were cautious during the first and last weeks of this month. You must maintain the immune system. Avoid eating and drinking cold beverages outside. On the professional front, the expected outcome is a promotion. Maintain consistency in your work and dedication to it. This week will be a good one for your fitness. Try to eat a well-balanced diet and see the doctor once a week to keep your health in check. Because of your hard work and persistence, you have a good chance of being promoted. This month, you may begin to learn new things and make significant changes in your thoughts, which would assist you in shaping your future. This month, Venus's transit would get you love and romance. Avoid aggressive or pessimistic thoughts and enjoy the Venus transit with exalted Mars; this would be the best time of your life for love and romance. Your relationship may take a positive turn, and you likely to make progress. Married couples may experience a communication gap in their relationship, so you are recommended to spend quality time together. The transit of Jupiter and the Sun indicates that you may incur some expenses related to your children. Unplanned expenditure on presents, short trip and celebration may be possible this month. Savings may be available, but careful planning is needed. This is not a good month to make a significant investment in the stock market.

The year's slow and steady increase in positivity is about to begin in Feb 2022. The support of planets that were previously absent is gradually returning to bring positivity into your existence. This is the month that your adherents or even your own beliefs are more likely to put into practice what you preach. This would be a month in which you may gradually begin to practise what you had expected. Even love and relationships are likely to change. This would allow you to strengthen your relationship with your wife, and you may even consider proposing to someone on whom you have a crush, which would gradually lead to a stronger bond. A marriage proposal is likely to happen. Thanks to the assistance of Venus and Jupiter, your luck in your personal life is likely to change. For those who have recently appeared for an interview, a change of job is often suggested. Your efforts and hard work would be recognised, and you would be rewarded during the month. A further increase in income is predicted for a few of you. However, you must proceed cautiously with your investment. This implies that you need to invest in assets that have long-term returns. If you are searching for real estate investment, you can wait for a more extended period that should be rich and rewarding in terms of returns. If you're trying to sell your old car, the last week of the month looks promising.

If you believe in your hard work, luck is likely to be on your side. Some of you may have the opportunity to meet with senior officials or people who can help you make your life more prosperous. Long-distance travel would provide opportunities for growth and learning. You are likely to be surrounded by wise and intelligent people. It would be best if you focused on both skill development and positive thinking. There is a chance that you may have negative feelings about your family and relationships, which may cause you stress. Keep optimistic and stop negative remarks. This month, you can give your relationship some breathing room because there is a risk of ego clashes or disagreements in your family and marriage relationships. Some of you may get engrossed in your everyday routine jobs, which can cause stress, so it is recommended that you take a break from your routine life and spend some quality time with your family or friends. Create a list of your most essential tasks and individuals to not get into an unwanted argument. This month, you should be careful when making significant financial investments. Invest in a small basket! In terms of fitness, you must be vigilant and not disregard your eating and sleeping habits. Avoid skipping meals and consuming fast food because the transit is not suitable for your stomach. You have a fair chance of being chosen for higher education in a foreign country. Success may come from creative arts and occult-related topics. Those of you studying medicine would be effective in your projects.

Cancer ( 22nd June to 22nd July )

Leo ( 23rd July to 22nd August )

Virgo ( 23rd August to 22nd September )

The monthly horoscope for people born under this sign predicts that you can make unexpected money through your job. You may notice a sense of steadiness in your spiritual development. Again, the marriage horoscope for most natives for the month indicates the possibility of marriage and even progeny for others. You could invest in business expansion to advance your career. However, as you follow your professional goals, your priority would be cultivating a favourable and rising social profile. Again, the monthly Horoscope for this zodiac sign means that you may be able to expand your social circle with more and new acquaintances. This month, you can expect a job move or a work-related ride. In terms of general fitness, you would be on the safe side of things. However, certain unexpected aspects of your personality can emerge in public. You may be able to ease your stress this month by adopting a pet of your choosing. The month would be full of opportunities in terms of career and company. However, these resources would be only available to those who are willing to take a chance. As a result, be prepared to face the challenges of the company and career. You would undoubtedly progress in the coming years. Furthermore, the month's finances are likely to be mixed. For others, earnings would be high, while for others, profits would be modest, leaving little hope for the near future.

Saying no to other people's ideas is not a smart move on your part. Even if you can analyse, this does not mean you are always right. You have an infectious sense of humour and the spontaneous excitement of a kid, which makes you famous with those you interact with this week. Because of your eccentricities, superiors may have a wrong opinion of you. Talking frankly with a good therapist would help you to remove stress. Your patience, tenacity, determination, and goal-oriented attitude would make it easier for you to deal with your own and other people's problems. Women would gain appreciation and acceptance from those with whom they interact. On crucial occasions, you would find yourself presentable. Before making any changes to your already profitable company, think carefully and consult with someone in charge. There is a chance that the outcome would be negative. You would demonstrate that you are astute, organised, hardworking, calculating, and willing to pull all the strings that your position allows. There's no need to be ashamed if people perceive you to have more vigour than femininity. Spending time analysing your current physical state would only make you more energetic and friendly. In specific ways, it would allow you to look for a solution to your present boredom, which is irritating and depressing. You should sign a new contract that would provide you with a stable and safe career.

This month, your methodical and systematic approach may benefit your career. The stars show that the workload is heavier than usual. For business people, the process around the middle of this month can irritate them. You would be able to increase productivity in the second half of the month. Feb may prove to be an excellent month to address essential topics about any pending financial issues or transactions. The middle of this month may be a good time for you to make investments or buy valuables for your family. The second half of the year could bring some commitment strain. You would make decent profits, and your financial situation would remain stable. In your personal life, this month would be a time of peace and bliss. The majority of your pleasures would be shared with your loved ones. The latter half of this month may leave you feeling insecure and unsure about the future of your love life. Meaningful talks with your partner around the end of this month may assist you in restoring normalcy. A disturbance may make your studies more challenging to complete at the start of this month. Your performance would steadily improve, and you are likely to have planetary help in the latter half of this month, allowing you to excel in your studies. The beginning of this month would be much better for your well-being, and you would now be able to fix the issue and put a plan in place. If you are sick, the last part of this month would help you recover quickly.

Libra ( 23rd September to 22nd October )

Scorpio ( 23rd October to 22nd November )

Sagittarius ( 23rd November to 21st December )

This month, a positive attitude and friendly communication may help you achieve your goals personally and professionally. With the Sun and Jupiter's blessings, you may gain a good reputation and respect, but you may become egoistic, which you must work upon as it can affect your relationships with coworkers. There is a good chance you would be promoted and given a raise. The transit of Venus indicates that you may have good clients and friends this month, but you must respond politely and with humility. There would be a happy moment in your romantic relationship. You are likely to receive a relationship proposal, or you may make your own. The transit of Ketu and Rahu may result in a long journey. There would be a party and fun with friends for you. Your relationship with your partner needs some quality time for a good talk, as well as some room for your better-half to share his or her feelings. Business owners must protect their investments. Try to seek the advice of an expert before making a new investment because Mars can trigger impatience and lead to poor decisions. Planetary transits are favourable for anticipated financial benefit with proper planning. There would be several opportunities for position changes or selection in interviews. If you believe in your hard work, luck would be on your side. Some of you may have the opportunity to meet with senior officials or people who can help you make your life more prosperous. Long-distance travel may provide opportunities for growth and learning. Wise and intelligent people are likely to surround you. It would be best if you focus on both skill development and positive thinking.

During this month, you would be able to fulfil both professional and personal ambitions. Your financial condition is likely to improve. However, this does not imply that you should begin flaunting in public. Before making a significant decision, you should get assistance or counsel from another person. Be wary of your competitors and their plans, and be ready to make a move if necessary. Suppose you wish to start a new company. This month, strive to make it possible for you to receive some of your ancestral property's shares. If you're looking for a new job, you may get some good news this month. Promotion and evaluation are also on the agenda! As a result, this is exciting news for you. If any of you like to purchase new land or property, you may do so. You might be able to find work in another country. This shall be a turning point in your life. Investments made in the past may result in massive profits for you. However, you should limit your spending, or you may encounter financial difficulties in the following months. This planetary alignment is likely to cause some consternation in your life. It would be best if you learned to overcome challenges and tackle them front on. Separately, you may receive the expected support from your siblings and parents. There would be no disputes about ancestral property or anything else. This month, you may decide to renovate your home. This is the month when your efforts would be rewarded.

February is most likely to bring you middling results, according to the monthly horoscope. The professional front will be booming. You could be given new possibilities in the form of increased responsibilities. In business, new channels that prove successful may emerge. Throughout the month, lovers possibly enjoy romantic moments. Lovebirds would communicate well with one another. On the other hand, married natives are likely to get closer to their spouses, bonding may strengthen, and peaceful relationships would prevail. Again, for married couples, this is a wonderful month to start a family. If you want to have a baby, this is the month to take the plunge and get pregnant. Finances would be average for the month since a large influx of funds would be balanced by a large outflow of funds. There would be an inflow of money from the business. However, you possibly have a lot of expenses scheduled for this month that you may have to postpone for the time being or plan so that they are spread out over a few months. Your health is likely to be fine, though you may experience weariness as a result of hectic work schedules and hefty workloads. When driving late at night, use caution. Native students seeking higher education and research are likely to enjoy a fruitful month, and their hard work may be rewarded. On the family front, there would be ordinary connections among family members, but there may be some friction among siblings.

Capricorn ( 22nd December to 20th January )

Aquarius ( 21st January to 18th February )

Pisces ( 19th February to 20th March )

This week, suspicions may be sowed; it is best to dispel any doubts with your partner before it is too late. You could be mistaken! Your dedication to friends and family would offer you assistance when you are in need. Because you are always willing to assist them, it is now their turn to shower you with love and attention which is beneficial for you. You have the philosophical thinking that helps you make personal decisions. This week, you may find it more useful and relieved that you rely on it. As a person of high regard, you might experience a period in which everyone expects something significant from you. You can now be pleased with yourself for having reached the point where you have successfully fulfilled what others anticipated of you. The work you have put into your projects up to this point is likely to begin bearing fruit. For the time being, you can sit and relax. Then you can start reaping the rewards of your labour. You are pressed to go back in time at work or with your lover. A severe crisis is unfolding around you, and while it is grating on your nerves, you may be the only one who appears to be calm and unbiased. You may get estranged from your family members and it would be more of your fault. Consider what you have done for your children as a father aside from earning money. You may exhibit the characteristics of being unimaginative, biassed, and always concerned.

According to the monthly Horoscope, professional and personal goals are likely to be prioritised this month. Planetary influences may present a festive period for people born under this sign, as they are likely to achieve good progress and thrive in their careers. To avoid financial hazards, you are advised to watch your expenditure and cut back on them. There is a good likelihood that you may feel emotionally drained for personal reasons. Furthermore, the relationship with the spouse may be strained, particularly in the second half of the month. It is recommended that you retain mutual understanding and trust to overcome the challenging situations that are likely to develop during this month. During this month, you may go on a pilgrimage. It's an excellent month to buy a vehicle of your choice, and you are most likely able to get the proper model. Make sure your wages are well documented so that you can acquire the finest car opportunity. Make the appropriate decision this month that would allow you to invest in the proper vehicle. Don't get too caught up with the one that is extremely costly as in the long term, you may be sorry for your decision. This is the month for natives who want to marry, and your parents and friends most probably positively appreciate your decision. There may be assistance to help you enhance your general relationship with everyone.

This month, a cheerful attitude and pleasant communication might help you achieve your goals personally and professionally. With the Sun and Jupiter's blessings, you may gain a good name and renown, but you may become egoistic, which you must control. This can have an impact on your relationships with coworkers. There is a good chance you would be promoted and given a raise. The transit of Venus indicates that you are likely to meet excellent clients and friends this month, but you must respond politely and with humility. There would be a happy time in your love relationship. If you like someone, you may receive a relationship proposal, or you may make your own. The transit of Ketu and Rahu can result in a long journey. There may be a party and fun with friends for you. Your relationship with your spouse requires some quality time with healthy dialogue, as well as some space for your better half to vent his or her thoughts. Business owners must protect their investments. Try to get the advice of an expert before making a new investment because Mars can create impatience and lead to poor decisions. Planetary transits are favourable for anticipated financial benefit with adequate planning. There would be several opportunities for employment changes or selection in interviews. If you believe in your hard work, luck would be on your side. Some of you may have the opportunity to speak with high officials or persons who can help you make your life more successful. Long-distance travelling can provide opportunities for growth and development. Wise and intelligent people are going to be around you. It would be best if you worked on both skill.

46 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022 — 47

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2020 — 51

U-19 World Cup final: Dhull and Co. on course to extend India’s undisputed dominance Yash Dull and Co. will aim to add to India's rich legacy when they take on England at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium. Eight finals and four trophies in 14 editions make India the most successful team in the Under-19 World Cup history. And come Saturday, they look on course for a recordextending fifth title given the depth of talent and form but standing in the way is a driven English team, chasing its own piece of history in what promises to be an enthralling summit clash. Yash Dull and Co. will aim to add to India’s rich legacy when they take on England at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium. India have had a rather smooth run into the final

despite a massive off the field setback when skipper Dhull and his deputy Shaik Rasheed missed two of the three league games due to COVID-19. Dhull, who had the worst symptoms among the infected players, has lived up to his highly rated talent in the three innings he has played so far including the sublime hundred in the semifinal. Rasheed has also shown his brilliance with the bat and is certainly the one to watch out for in the future. Opener Angkrish Raghuvanshi and Harnoor Singh were extra cautious in their approach in the semifinal against Australia and the duo will need to change their approach for the summit clash. What makes India’s bunch

of teenagers look the part is their unexpected maturity. The way Dhull and Rasheed batted after a poor start against Australia was a lesson in pacing the innings. Only a few out of the current lot are likely to graduate to the highest level in the years to follow but in the short term, a special performance on Saturday

afternoon can land them a life changing IPL deal at the upcoming mega auction. While the batters have put up individual performances, the bowling department has fired in unison. The extra pace of Rajvardhan Hangargekar and swing of left-armer Ravi Kumar has rattled the top order batters while the Vicky

Australian Open women’s final live: Barty’s special kiss after epic Open triumph Ash Barty has celebrated her historic Australian Open triumph in a rare emotional display, including a special moment straight after match point. Ash Barty is queen of Melbourne Park. The 25-year-old is the first Aussie woman to be crowned Australian Open champion in 44 years after she pulled off a miraculous escape in her rollercoaster final against Danielle Collins. Barty was down a double break in the second set — and the match looked certain to head into a decider — but the world No. 1 showed raw courage to fight back and take the second set in a tiebreaker. She let out an enormous roar on match point after securing the 6-3 7-6 (7-3) victory. After shaking hands with Collins, Barty went immediately and hugged close-friend Casey Dellacqua, who was sitting courtside. Dellacqua, Barty’s former double partner and mentor

was there to support Barty as she made her return to professional tennis — and it was only fitting that the pair got to share the special moment together as the crowd exploded in applause. Barty also gave Dellacqua a kiss on the cheek as they exchanged some brief words. The emotional moment melted the hearts of tennis commentators around the world. Barty then raced to celebrate with coach Craig Tyzzer, partner Gary Kissick and her family. She said after walking off court to hold interviews with

48 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022

the tournament’s global TV broadcasters that Dellacqua saved her career. “She brought me into the sport again. And allowed me to explore, to grow as a person, and I love her,” Barty said sitting inside a Channel 9 studio alongside Dellacqua. “She is a bloody legend. And she is a great friend and I’m so grateful and lucky to have her. “There would not be any other person that I want sitting literally direct across from me. “She changed my life.” Dellacqua said simply she was “so proud” of her

apprentice — who has become the master of the entire sport. Barty had another emotional moment during the trophy presentation when it was announced that Aussie legend Evonne Goolagong-Cawley had made a surprise shock dash to Melbourne to present the trophy to Barty. Goolagong-Cawley is Barty’s idol and the World No. 1 admitted she had no idea she would be presenting the trophy. The Queenslander was just as classy in her victory speech, where she was left particularly emotional speaking about her team and family. “Wow. I have said numerous times that I am so lucky tonight to have so many people here that love me, support me,” she said. “Pretty bloody special that mum and dad and my sisters are here and I’m so happy they could be here today. “I am an incredibly fortunate and lucky girl to have so much love in my corner. And that comes when we started together right from the start in the second part of our career. “We did it together. Nobody has changed from the team. I love you guys to death and you are the best in the business. “I cannot thank you for all the time and love you put into And I think as an Aussie, the most important part of this tournament is being able to share it with so many people and you guys today in the crowd have been nothing shy of exceptional.” She is in every way a deserving champion.

Ostwal-led spin attack has stifled the opposition in the middle overs. He is India’s leading wicket-taker with 12 scalps at 10.75. Summing up team’s confidence ahead of the final, Rasheed said: “We are a very good team. We are looking to win the finals.” The U-19 stars are also getting to learn from the best. Virat Kohli, who went on to become a world beater after captaining India U-19 to the title in 2008, gave a pep talk to the class of 2022 on how to approach the high pressure final. They face England, a team which last reached the title clash way back in 1998 when it won its sole trophy till date. After a tense finish in the semifinal against Afghanistan, England will be

more than keen to end their title drought of the last 24 years. Like India, England too remain unbeaten in the tournament. Captain Tom Prest has led from the front with 292 runs at an average of 73 while left-arm pacer Joshua Boyden has taken 13 wickets at a stellar average of 9.53. India batters will also need to be wary of wrist spinner Rehan Ahmed who is tasked with providing breakthroughs in the middle overs. Irrespective of the result on final, the Indian boys have had their moment in the sun in the Caribbean but given the high expectations they set for themselves, they will settle for nothing less than a trophy.

Winter Olympics underway after opening ceremony in Beijing

The 24th edition of the Winter Olympics is officially underway after the Olympic cauldron was lit in a restrained opening ceremony in Beijing. Almost 3,000 athletes from 91 nations will compete across the Games. The International Olympic Committee has been criticized for awarding the Games to China because of the country's alleged

human rights abuses. IOC president Tomas Bach said one of the missions of the Games was to unite humankind in all their diversity. The Olympic torch was placed into the centre of a giant snowflake, which was then illuminated to become the cauldron. The snowflake is made up of placards with the names of the 91 nations competing in Beijing.

Man United crash out of FA Cup

Manchester United have crashed out of the FA Cup after going down to Middlesbrough 8-7 in penalties in the fourth round at Old Trafford. Cristiano Ronaldo missed a penalty in the 20th minute before Jadon Sancho scored in the 25th minute. Middlesbrough scored a controversial goal in the

64th minute as a forward had handled the ball in the United box before delivering his cross which led to the goal, however, VAR deemed it to be accidental. The match finished 1-1 after extra time, however, Middlesbrough outscored United 8-7 in the penalties which saw youngster Anthony Elanga miss his penalty.

AUSTRALIA’S ECONOMIC ACCELERATOR TO PROPEL ECONOMY A new $1.6 billion economic accelerator will turn Australia’s leading research into world-beating businesses as part of the Morrison Government’s focus on building the country’s resilience. Australia’s Economic Accelerator (AEA) features as part of a $2.2 billion package to focus the commercialisation of the six national manufacturing priority areas – resources and critical minerals, food and beverage, medical products, recycling and clean energy, defence and space – bringing the country’s brightest business and academic minds together. Together with a new $150 million expansion of CSIRO’s Main Sequence Ventures, the AEA will reshape research funding to emphasise projects with high potential for commercialisation that are directed at National Manufacturing Priorities and industry engagement. The Prime Minister said the AEA would invest in projects as they progressed through the stages of their development. “Stronger commercialisation of research and ideas will mean a stronger economy and a stronger future for Australia,” the Prime Minister said. “This is about funding projects to bridge the ‘valley of death’ where early-stage research is often not progressed due to higher levels of risk and uncertainty. “The AEA will drive our universities and businesses to work hand-in-glove through the stages to prove projects’ viability and potential. “Expanding the CSIRO’s Main Sequence Ventures

program then takes this further, incentivising the additional venture capital investment support needed to progress innovative new products and technologies through to market to become the new businesses and employers of the future.” Acting Minister for Education and Youth Stuart Robert said the AEA would boost investment in two critical stages of experimental development: proof of concept and proof of scale. “The AEA will become a critical source of competitive funding support for innovating new projects with high commercial potential, and will take a lot of the risk and uncertainty for universities out of the equation,” Minister Robert said. “We will start with a big

range of contenders – a contest of ideas. “But as we progress to stage two, the number of applicants will diminish and the value of the funding to each will increase. “For example, stage one will involve nearly 100 grants a year of up to $500,000. Recipients will be required to engage industry through in-kind support or even co-location. “In order to be one of the 36 recipients attracting up to $5 million in funding as part of ‘stage two’ projects, industry will need to put more skin in the game with a 50 per cent co-investment. “At stage three, up to 50 companies will be supported through the Main Sequence Venture, where we are providing $150 million in two successive coinvestment funds.

“This investment is about new jobs, increased wages, and creating products that make life easier, more efficient or even more interesting,” Minister Robert said. Minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction Angus Taylor said the grants were an investment in Australia’s future industries and smart manufacturing within the Morrison Government’s National Manufacturing Priorities. “By working with industry and researchers, the government is helping to ensure our economy benefits from our worldclass research, both now and well into the future,” Minister Taylor said. Minister for Science and Technology Melissa Price said the $150 million

expansion of the CSIRO Main Sequence Ventures program would back start-up companies and help create commercial opportunities from Australian research. “The Morrison Government is prioritising investment in research and action to turn Australia’s best ideas into new industries and strengthen our future prosperity,” Minister Price said. “The expansion of the Main Sequence Ventures will further support the development of spin-off and start-up companies with high commercial potential arising from local research. “Over the past four years, Main Sequence Ventures has invested in 39 companies that are commercialising deep tech opportunities that have

created more than 1,200 technology-related jobs. “Our new investment in this program will ensure it can play a bigger role in our economy and help develop the next generation of great Aussie companies and products.” Minister Robert said the Morrison Government would also invest $296 million in industry focused PhDs and fellowships to support its research commercialisation goals and drive greater universityindustry collaboration. “This new scheme will generate 1,800 industry PhDs and over 800 industry fellows over 10 years to fundamentally reshape the workforce of Australia’s universities,” Minister Robert said. “PhD students will benefit from the experience of undertaking research within industry settings, creating employment pathways beyond academic roles. “Industry will benefit from the opportunities to host PhD students, bolstering their ability to harness ideas and concepts for innovation, as well as to open the pathway to the recruitment of high-calibre graduates. This will be further enhanced by a new suite of ARC Fellowships that will recognise and reward our academics who collaborate with industry, helping to drive the translation of their research, creating new pathways for their work. “These initiatives will change the culture and the focus of research across Australia’s universities – building greater engagement with industry and ensuring that innovation is at the core of our economic future as a nation.”

REOPENING TO TOURISTS AND OTHER INTERNATIONAL TRAVELLERS TO SECURE OUR ECONOMIC RECOVERY Australia will reopen to all fully vaccinated visa holders, welcoming the return of tourists, business travellers, and other visitors from 21 February. These changes will ensure we protect the health of Australians, while we continue to secure our economic recovery. Australia’s health system has demonstrated its resilience throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, including though the recent Omicron wave. With improving health conditions, including a recent 23 per cent decline in hospitalisations due to Call: (07) 3192 5188

COVID, the National Security Committee of Cabinet today agreed Australia is ready to further progress the staged reopening of our

international border. Visa holders who are not fully vaccinated will still require a valid travel exemption to enter Australia,

and will be subject to state and territory quarantine requirements. Today’s announcement will give certainty to our

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vital tourism industry, and allow them to start planning, hiring and preparing for our reopening. In 2018-19, tourism generated more

than $60 billion for the Australian economy, with more than 660,000 jobs dependent on the industry. Since the Morrison Government commenced Australia’s staged international border reopening on 1 November 2021 we have seen almost 580,000 arrivals come to Australia including to reunite with loved ones, work or study. The Commonwealth continues to work with States and Territories on the safe resumption of the cruise industry and looks forward to further announcements on this in due course.

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Australia Welcomes Return of International Students and Backpackers Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs, Alex Hawke MP, today announced strong arrival figures for International Students and Working Holiday Makers, in recent weeks. “Australia is open for business. We are welcoming back increasing numbers of International Students, Backpackers, and Skilled migrants,” Minister Hawke said. “Visa application rates have surged in the last week, since the Government’s announcement of a special Visa Application Charge (VAC) refund window for people who travel and arrive in Australia over the coming weeks,” he said. “We are building back healthy pipelines of Working Holiday Makers, and we are processing these visas very quickly. The Government is

seeing a surge in demand from backpackers and we are ready to welcome them to our shores,” he said. “Confidence in Australia’s economic recovery is extremely strong. Unemployment is at record lows, industry and government are providing incentives for workers to come to Australia, and we are ready to meet the demand. We all have a role to play in the economic recovery, filling vital skills shortages, and the Government is providing these incentives to encourage skilled workers to come to Australia now and fulfil these opportunities and participate in the phenomenal economic recovery that we are seeing in Australia right now,” he said. “There are more jobs now available in Australia than before the COVID-19Pandemic, and there are still

many more places available to Backpackers and Students that we are ready to fill, so come on down,” Minister Hawke said. International Students Australia is proud to have welcomed the arrival of almost 7,000 International Students in the last week alone. From 24 to 30 January we have witnessed the strong return of International Students to our shores - with almost 7,000 International Students making the journey to Australia ahead of course commencement at Australian campuses right around the nation. Since late November 2020 a total of 56,000 International Students have arrived in Australia. Demand for Australian study visas has been particularly strong, in recent

months, with more than 50,000 overseas student visa lodgements since late 2021. Visa grants to International Students are flowing as a result of the Minister directing the Department to allocate additional resources to processing the visas of International Students. Working Holiday Makers There was a 17% increase in the arrival of Working Holiday Makers in the last week. From 24 to 30 January the number of Working Holiday Maker visa (subclass 417 and 462) applications has surged – with 2,600 visa applications lodged by overseas backpackers. A total of 28,000 Working Holiday Maker visas have been approved in the last few months - since the reopening of international

borders to fully vaccinated skilled workers, International Students and Working Holiday Makers - in line with the National Plan to safely reopen Australia. The Morrison Government has signed a number of new and increased Working Holiday Maker arrangements with partner countries, in recent years, with a total of 45 partner countries or regions now participating in the program. Refunds of Visa Application Charges Fully vaccinated International Students and Working Holiday Makers have been encouraged to return to Australia now to support our economic recovery and to commence studies through the launch of a new Visa Application Charge (VAC) refund window for eligible

travellers. Working Holiday Maker visa holders (subclasses 417 or 462) who are outside Australia and arrive in Australia between 19 January 2022 and 19 April 2022 are eligible for a VAC refund. Student visa holders who are outside Australia and arrive in Australia between 19 January 2022 and 19 March 2022 are eligible for a VAC refund. Further information about refunds is available online. Attracting more International Students and Working Holiday Makers These initiatives are proudly supported by a new $7 million marketing campaign to attract young people from overseas to work and holiday in Australia. The Work and Play the Aussie Way campaign encourages the uptake of Working Holiday Maker visas in the United Kingdom, Europe, Japan and Republic of Korea, by giving young travellers a glimpse of the adventures that await them while working and travelling Australia. Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) is also running a campaign to attract more international students.

DECEMBER-JANUARY SEES Student and Working DEMAND FOR Holiday Maker visa holders STRONG TEMPORARY MIGRANT VISAS; The Morrison Government has announced a series of visa measures to provide an incentive for fully vaccinated Student and Working Holiday Maker visa holders to return to Australia as soon as possible to help address current workforce shortages caused by COVID-19. Refunds of Visa Application Charges Working Holiday Maker visa holders who are currently offshore and come to Australia during the next 12 weeks will be eligible for a refund of their Visa Application Charge. Any Student visa holder who is currently offshore and comes to Australia over the next 8 weeks, will be eligible for a refund of their Visa Application Charge. The current Visa Application Charge for a student is $630 and for a Working Holiday Maker it is $495. These changes will also apply for new applications, which will be processed quickly so applicants can come to Australia during the refund window. As well as providing an incentive for existing offshore visa holders to bring forward their travel, these changes will generate new interest in Australia and new visa applications. The provision of refunds and priority visa processing, together with a Tourism Australia

Working Holiday Maker visa holders who are currently offshore and come to Australia during the next 12 weeks will be eligible for a refund of their Visa Application Charge. Any Student visa holder who is currently offshore and comes to Australia over the next 8 weeks, will be eligible for a refund of their Visa Application Charge. The current Visa Application Charge for a student is $630 and for a Working Holiday Maker it is $495. advertising campaign, will generate fresh interest in Australia from students and Working Holiday Makers who contribute greatly to our economy and fill vital skills gaps. International Student – Working Hours Flexibility The Morrison Government has supported Australian businesses during the pandemic by allowing Student visa holders to work additional hours in critical sectors. Due to current workforce shortages, the Government is temporarily extending this arrangement by removing the limit on Student visa holders’ working hours across all sectors of the economy. This measure takes effect immediately for all ongoing students as well as new student arrivals who start a job prior to their course commencement, and will be reviewed in April 2022.

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Working Holiday Makers – Employer Flexibility In addition, effective immediately and until the end of 2022, there will be no limit on the length of time Working Holiday Makers can work for the same employer. The above measures are temporary and designed to provide immediate assistance to Australian businesses that are currently facing critical workforce shortages, to enable them to continue delivering goods and services to the community. There are currently around 150,000 Student and 23,500 Working Holiday Maker visa holders offshore. All international arrivals must be fully vaccinated or hold a valid medical exemption. Further details will be available on the Department of Home Affairs website.

FURTHER FLEXIBILITY FOR TEMPORARY MIGRANTS

The Morrison Government welcomes the return to Australia of a range of temporary workers to support our pandemic recovery in critical roles. International Student Arrival Numbers I am pleased to welcome the arrival in Australia of more than 43,000 International Students since the Government announced that fully vaccinated eligible visa holders can enter Australia, including Skilled and Student cohorts, as well as Humanitarian, Working Holiday Maker and certain family visa holders. There are currently more than 150,000 International Student visa holders overseas who have been supported to continue their Australian studies, and the reopening of our borders to them sends a clear signal that Australia remains a top study destination. Skilled Workers and Working Holiday Maker Arrival Numbers Additionally, more than 8,000 Skilled workers have arrived in Australia, and 22,000 Working Holiday Maker visas have been granted since November 2021. Demand for Working Holiday visas has been

There are currently more than 150,000 International Student visa holders overseas who have been supported to continue their Australian studies, and the reopening of our borders to them sends a clear signal that Australia remains a top study destination. particularly strong. Australia has also welcomed around 60,000 family members of Australians visiting since the Government’s announced changes in November 2021. Skilled Regional Provisional Visa Flexibility The Government will extend by 3 years Skilled Regional Provisional (subclass 489, 491 and 494) visas where the visa holder was impacted by COVID-19 international travel restrictions. This will assist around 10,000 skilled regional workers. This will provide sufficient additional time for all current and former

Skilled Regional Provisional visa holders to make travel arrangements to start or resume living and working in regional Australia. Temporary Graduate Visa Flexibility The Government will make changes to allow entry of current and former Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa holders from 18 February 2022, to allow them to re-enter Australia and apply for a further stay. Visas will be extended for graduates who were outside of Australia at any time between 1 February 2020 and 14 December 2021, while they held a valid Temporary Graduate visa. The extension will take effect on 18 February 2022 and visa holders will be notified directly by the Department of Home Affairs of the extension of their visa and may arrive after this occurs, from 18 February onwards. These changes support the return to Australia of temporary graduates as soon as possible, ahead of further planned changes on 1 July 2022 that will provide a further visa extension option to former graduates. For more information please visit the Department of Home Affairs website.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022 — 51

52 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, February, 2022