Brisbane Indian TImes - May 2024 Edition

A Division of JD Media Corporation

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

Volume 20, Number 9 Saturday, May 11th, 2024

As God is One, we respect all Religions

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Global focus on India

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With respect, as this May edition of your Brisbane Indian Times come to print, we hear prophesies by some Indian election 2024 pundits that the present occupant of the “Panchavati” will extend his stay in these glories aboard for another 5 years.

Yes, the enviously sought after residency the Panchavati, the highly esteemed official residence of the Indian Prime Minister on 12 acres of prime real estate, 7 Lok Kalyan Marg, New Delhi.

The incumbent resident of the Panchvati, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Damodardas Modi, pictured here being conferred the Companion of the Order of Fiji, Fiji’s most prestigious and Highest Civil Award presented here by Fiji’s Prime Minister, Major General (Retired) Sitiveni Rabuka representing the Government and people of Fiji.

Prime Minister Narendra D Modi hails

from a non-political family was born on September 17th, 1950, in Vadnagar in the Mehsana District, State of Gujarat, India.

Controversy about his caste has been on going and fuelled by commentators who probably has a political axe to grind, like Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. Nonetheless, the former Train Station Tea seller who rose to be the Prime Minister of the world’s largest democracy himself put this caste topic to rest when he affirms his heritage in self-identification as the “sabse bada OBC” (a prominent member of the Other Backward Classes).

The Republic of Indian, in the English language, India is widely referred to as “Bhārat Gaṇarājya”. Of course, in Hindi we refer to India as “भारत", Bhārat. While in Bengal however, India is referred to as "ভারত”, transliterated as Bharôt.

The Indian Government website, india.

gov.in profiles excellently that” India is one of the oldest civilizations in the world with a kaleidoscopic variety and rich cultural heritage”.

Contd. on pg 8

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024 — 1

Inside

• Local News ..................................4-38 • Real Estate ................................11-17 • Fiji News ......................................... 18 • India News ..................................... 40 • Entertainment .............................. 42 • Sports News ................................... 46 • Health & Well Being .................... 50 • Astrology ........................................ 52 • Business Directory/Classified ... 53

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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 2/3 Curban Street Underwood, QLD 4119 or E-mail: prod@indiantimes.com.au

2 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024

From the Publisher

Locally based but Globally focused May Day…May Day!.no, no, it is not a distress call from your editorial team at Brisbane Indian Times.

But, in the month of May for decades now marks solemn remembrance days spread through May to commemorate the first arrival of Indian indentured semislaves to far flung then British colonies across the Globe.

Semi-slaves we say as was the cunning ploy by the then ruthless British Empire and other dominant world powers to attempt hoodwink the world in desperation to replace or rather continue slavery soon after its abolition!

The advent of the month of May in many of our lives poignantly evokes memories of historical records of the atrocious working conditions and animalistic living aboard our forebears Girmityas were forced to endure.

Every day these Girmityas respective may-day calls of distress from the dirt floor of their flimsy aboard and scorching

tropical sun at the workplace, were of course reverberates loud in agony, but shamefully ignored by the sardar at the farm level and even the higher echelon of colonial powers. Only when global public pressure and determined advocacy finally herald in the abolition of this semi-slave sorry affair well into the first world war!

This May, more on us foreign Indians as proud descendant of the Global Girmit will converge in various venues across the globe in this month of May to commemorate and celebrate our liberty and prosperity, lest we forgot, borne on the backs of the majesty of the Girmityas.

Let’s look at some May arrival dates of Indian workers in these, rightly so, tropical paradises, but destiny of torment and even untimely death to many Girmityas.

Our cousins in Grenada commemorating 1st May 1857. In Guyana, May 5th 1838, Jamaica the 10th May 1825, Saint Lucia the 6 May, Trinidad and Tobago the 30th May 1845, Fiji, the 14th May 1879. Also

close to May are Saint Vincent and the Grenadines 1st June and Suriname 5th June 1873.

Brisbane Indian Times will in future issues continue to explore the historical and present trend of intertwined Global Indian migration as a people grouping and micro-focus on individual journeys.

Here in the home front the Charitable Foundation of JD Media and sister Group of Companies will again this May 18, 2024, host yet another annual Girmit Remembrance Day. Please refer to the advertisement flyer.

Throughout varied Indian Diaspora communities, Girmit Remembrance Day celebration are held by community groups or hosted by Government who are indebted to the contributions of the Girmityas and present-day descendants in their political, economic and social life.

Cross-media launch

The JD Media this month on May 18 will launch a Television Chanel, the Global Indian TV on High-Definition viewing and available on numerous Indian and English Platforms. We did not want to start a TV for the sake of it but engaged a very reputable overseas tech support provider all for the purpose for beaming the best, the very best in Hindi Movies, documentary, and Songs for free on the palm of your hands and in the comfort of your home screen. Global Indian TVTouching Indians Globally.

Our Australia Indian Radio will this month be resurrected with server based overseas to prepare for increased listenership. A well-known and people favourite Radio presenter will be joining the team soon to host live our Breakfast Programme. This will be followed by our own Bahanji and respective hosts in Business and Investment, Health and wellbeing. You will not want to tune off as our afternoon drive to hold your hands as you drive home, and nighttime talk show tempo will ease you off to good dreams of tomorrow.

Oh, yes, the month of May, in fact the month is named after the Greek goddess Maia, who was identified with the Roman era goddess of fertility. Nothing mayday stress call about that, in our Indian context, now the most populace country on earth with the largest Diaspora at close to 20,000,000 Indians! Aren’t you grateful and proud to be one of us?

JD Media; locally based but globally focused. Come, and ride the waves of change in Indian media with us.

BIT JUNE 2024

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Changes to the Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa program As part of the government's Migration Strategy, several changes have been proposed to the Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa program.

The Department of Home Affairs has now confirmed these updates, which will take effect from 1 July 2024.

Changes to the Graduate Work Stream

New Name: The current Graduate Work stream will be renamed to "Post-Vocational Education Work."

Age Limit: The maximum age for this stream will be lowered to 35 years or under at the time of application. However, Hong Kong and British National Overseas (BNO) passport holders can still apply until age 50.

Qualification Requirements: Applicants must hold an associate degree, diploma, or trade qualification closely related to an occupation listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). Those with degrees at a higher level must apply through the Post-Higher Education Work stream.

Visa Duration: Successful applicants in the Post-Vocational Education Work stream will receive visas for 18 months, except for Hong Kong and BNO passport holders, who will receive a fiveyear visa.

Changes to the Post-Study Work Stream

New Name: The Post-Study Work stream will now be called "Post-Higher Education Work."

Age Limit: The maximum age will also be reduced to 35 years or under. Hong Kong and BNO passport holders can still apply until age 50.

Visa Duration: The length of the visa will vary depending on the applicant's qualification: Bachelor's degrees (including honours) will grant a 2-year visa.

Master's degrees (coursework and extended) will also offer a 2-year visa.

Master's (research) and doctoral degrees (PhD) will grant a 3-year visa.

Note that Hong Kong and BNO passport holders will receive a five-year visa regardless of

the level of their degree.

Visa Grant Periods for Indian Nationals

Under the Australian Indian - Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA), Indian nationals applying through the Post-Higher Education Work stream will have different visa grant periods: A Bachelor's degree (including honours) provides a 2-year visa, while first-class honours in STEM fields or ICT grants a 3-year visa.

Master's degrees (coursework, extended, and research) will offer a 3-year visa.

Doctoral degrees (PhD) will grant a 4-year visa.

Changes to the Second Post-Study Work Stream The "Second Post-Study Work" stream will be renamed to "Second Post-Higher Education Work." The requirements will remain unchanged, with no additional modifications.

End of the Replacement Stream

The Replacement Stream, which was designed to assist students affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and related restrictions, will end on 1 July 2024.

At Migration Guru, we understand that visa requirements can be complex and ever-changing.

If you have any questions or need assistance navigating these new age requirements, our experienced team is here to support you. Don't hesitate to reach out for personalized advice and guidance to help you achieve your educational and migration goals in Australia.

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 3, 183 North Quay, Brisbane, QLD. Phone: 07 3036 3800 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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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024 — 3

Historical Girmit Public Holiday By the time this issue of your Brisbane Indian Times is circulated, we in Australia would have celebrated many Girmit Anniversary Celebrations in our Cities and Towns, including in many Nations including the Fiji Islands.

Suffice to mention that only this Fiji Government since the Girmit era has paused to really commemorate and afford the long-awaited due credence for the sacrifice our forbearers endured by declaring a Girmit Remembrance Public holiday.

The Rt Hon Fiji Prime Minister of Fiji, Major General (Retired) Sitiveni Rabuka first ever Girmit day speech is share here.

In the next issue of your Brisbane Indian Times, we will share with you his speech which will be delivered on May 18, 2024 in the Deo Family Foundation sponsored Girmit day celebration here in Queensland.

Fiji Girmit

Honourable Sitiveni L. Rabuka, (CF OBE OStJ MSD) Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Climate Change and Environment, Civil Service, Information, Public Enterprises & Veteran Affairs _____________________________________________________________________

Message from Hon Sitiveni Rabuka Prime Minister of Fiji Fiji Girmit Day Celebrations Saturday 13 May 2023

Fiji Prime Minister delivering Girmit speech in Suva, Fiji

Fiji’s Indo-Fijian Deputy Prime Minister with Fiji Prime Minister Rabuka. Photo source: Fiji Government.

Fiji Prime Minister with Indo-Fijian descendants of Girmityas with music Instruments and artifacts passed down the generation.

Replica of the MV Leonidas, the first Girmit ship to Fiji.

4 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024

I send my warm greetings to Mr Jitendra descendants separate. They thought the Deo, chair of the Fiji Girmit Foundation Fijian communal way of existence would Australia, and Iall who attending Girmit not mix well withofthe independent and send myare warm greetings to Mr Jitendra Deo, chair themore Fiji Girmit Day celebrations in Brisbane. individual way of living of the Girmityas.

The members of Australia, the diaspora They are may attending have beenGirmit right. Day Foundation and all who communities are important to our But the outcome meant that our small Government. celebrations in Brisbane.

Island nation was inhabited by two very We appreciate your ongoing interest in different communities. the land of your birth and theofcontributions The differences weretonot The members the diaspora communities are important our only about you make in many ways to its welfare and basic social beliefs, traditions and attitudes. development. Government.

They extended to religion and language.

This is a very special time for Fiji. We are The end result was that the Fijians and coming together a nationyour to observe the Girmitya descendants often did not Weas appreciate ongoingthe interest in the land of your birth and the first public holiday to recognize and honour fully engage with each other. So there was the Girmityas contributions from India who to Fiji a lack of mutual understanding leading youcame make in many ways to its welfare and between 1879 and 1916. to suspicion and divisions, especially This recognition is long overdue. politically. development.

The celebrations that have been taking I’m not going to go further into this part of place in the last few continue this ourare history.

I do want to emphasise that This is days a veryand special time for Fiji. We comingBut together as a nation weekend, are not just about those original your Coalition Government, in consultation to observe thecame first to public holiday recognize and indentured labourers who toil in andtocooperation withhonour all thethe people of Fiji, the cane fields. wishes to build a country based on respect from Indiafor who came and 1916.

They are Girmityas an accolade their to Fiji andbetween love of 1879 neighbor. descendants who make up a significant Our schools need to teach history that This recognition is long overdue. will give our children a deeper appreciation part of our population.

They contribute immeasurably to the life of the nation of our diverse society. socially and economically.

What I see in the Girmit programmes is I praise the programmes that have exactly what is required. But it must be done been organised at home and abroad for consistently and with more awareness of this Girmit Day celebration. They capture how we can overcome our differences. very well the spirit and intention of what I am very confident that if we commit your Government had in mind when we to finding this new way forward, Fiji will approved this new national holiday. become a truly united home for us all.

I am particularly impressed by their When I say all, I mean the descendants of multi-cultural, inclusive nature. That is the Girmityas, the what we want to see. It is time now for the indigenous people and the other cultural nation to work harder to overcome those groups that live here. things that have kept us apart.

To me the underlying theme of the new In a sense we have reaped what was Girmit holiday is about unity and how we sown in the colonial period. Girmityas came can achieve this. to serve the interests of the colonial masters.

Your Government wishes to share There were no employment regulations to thinking about making changes right across protect them and ensure they were fairly the community so that we can come to a treated. consensus about the future.

The official approach was one of We can do it my fellow Fijians. I know we exploitation involving physical and mental can. ill treatment; terrible working hours and Tomorrow afternoon I’ll be attending a very poor pay. special service of Girmit reconciliation by Historians like our late Professor Brij Lal the Methodist Church of Fiji. This too is on conducted research that showed the Girmit the official agenda for Girmit Day. labourers were virtual slaves.

To me, it is of major importance for Read Professor Lal’s The Tamarind Tree healing our national divisions. Ladies and for accounts of plantation life. He has many gentlemen of the Brisbane diaspora, this things to tell, including how the Girmityas inaugural Girmit holiday has led to an administered their own version of the outpouring of thoughts and tributes in song, law. They dealt severely with Sukkha the oratory and poetry. unpopular Sirdar.

I’m going to end my message today by The man they employed to mete out their reading some of the best lines from a poem justice was Bhukkan. Mr Underwood, one of published in The Sunday Times, on May the overseers with morally It was written by Avenai Serutabua of “The struggles they faced corrupt and thehabits, pain they7th. met. paid for his sins with his life. Thanks to Nabukelevu Village in Serua.

Bhukkan.

“Their memory and legacy we shall preserve.“If you listen closely, you can still hear I mention this to illustrate what a cruel them sing, “Songs of sorrow and hope, of world the Girmityas inhabited. everything.

“AMore reminder and their to serve…” powerof totheir thembravery for surviving whatstrength “Their legacy lives on, despite the pain, seemed to be Fiji’s version of the lawless “For their toil and sweat served as a gain…”

Wild West.

“For Girmit in Fiji we shall not forget, I thank you for your continuing interest and support.

Those who decided to stay - freed from “The struggles they faced and the pain their made new lives.

“Their memory and legacy we Mayoppression God bless–us all on these special days they in ourmet. history.

They became independent farmers, shall preserve. small traders and shopkeepers. Their “A reminder of their bravery and their numbers grew and so did their contribution strength to serve…” I thank you for your to Fiji. The evidence of their achievements continuing interest and support. is all around us today.

May God bless us all on these special Unfortunately for us, the British rulers days in our history.

Dhanyavaad had a policy of keeping the indigenous Dhanyavaad Vinaka and Vakalevu Fijians the Girmityas and their Vinaka Vakalevu

Hon Sitiveni Rabuka Prime Minister of Fiji

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024 — 5

Official launch of

JD Media’s Global Indian TV His Worship the Mayor of the City of Logan, Queensland , Cr Jon Raven has kindly agreed to officially inaugurate your Global Indian TV on May 18, 2024.

The Global Indian TV is an integral tripartite companion of the JD Media cross-media conglomerate covering the airwaves and Tabloid Media services.

Your Global Indian TV will bring to the palm of your hands or link up to the privacy of your TV screen premier Hindi movies, songs and documentary for the whole family.

Your TV station’s prime purpose is encouraging networking, connecting and touching Indian lives across the globe, over 20 million of us Indians living outside India.

Meeting Political, Business and Community leaders and microfocusing of family grouping, women and young groups, and Indian achievement globally are programming that will populate your TV schedule.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024 — 7

UK “Indian” Prime Minister meets India’s Prime Minister Who be the best living example of a UK Indian than incumbent UK Prime Minister, the Rt Hon Rishi Sunak third generation IndoAfrican migrant and the UK born second generation Indo British.

His grandparents, though not Girmityas but example of Indian migrants initially residents in a third world country, in this case in the East African region, then migrants to western democratic nation.

Also, unlike Girmityas mainly from West and Southern Indian, his grant parents were from Punjab in the North. A practicing Hindu though on few occasions as UK Prime Minister is required to participate in Judeo-Christian rituals as seen in His Majesty King Charle III coronation where he read a Biblical text; Colossians 1:9-17, which emphasises the love of Christ and the importance of service to others, aligns with the values of the British monarchy and the theme of the coronation liturgy, “Called to Serve”” In a future issue of your Brisbane Indian Times a more explicit and well researched commentary of the first British Prime Minister will be thoroughly expounded for your delight.

That, we promise!

A major number of Indo Brits entered the UK in a rather ironic situation.

These were descendants of Girmityas the British transported to the Caribbeans between 1838 and 1917.

Nearly half-a-million Indians under contracts to work on Caribbean

plantations under the then British colonial rulers.

Soon after the second world war the UK experienced imminent and urgent workers shortage needed to rebuild the British Iles after the ruthless devastation of London and other major centers.

So, in 1948 these people and their descendants were invited to take up jobs in struggling industries and municipalities in rebuilding for Britain.

Now, passionately known as the ‘Windrush generation’ whose numbers has exponential increased in this modern Britian.

In a future issue of your Brisbane Indian Times we

A practicing Hindu though on few occasions as UK Prime Minister is required to participate in JudeoChristian rituals as seen in His Majesty King Charle III coronation where he read a Biblical text; Colossians 1:917, which emphasises the love of Christ and the importance of service to others, aligns with the values of the British monarchy and the theme of the coronation liturgy, “Called to Serve”” In a future issue of your Brisbane Indian Times a more explicit and well researched commentary of the first British Prime Minister will be thoroughly expounded for your delight. That, we promise!

Photo source: Twitter (X): @narendramodi.

Photo source: United Religions Initiative.

(URI is a registered 501(c)(3) with consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council)

will explore “Windrush scandal” and the, recognition or lack thereof of one group of Windrush migrants in the Indo-Caribbean community and Britain as a whole.

From the mainland India, however, the period of highest migration to England was 1955-1975. At one stage in the Bradford area alone numbered about 13,000 Indians. 46% were Punjabis and 43.3% were from Gujarat.

Modern day UK have Indo-Brits from nearly every corner of the Indian Diaspora Global community.

Global focus on India Contd. from pg 01 Hon Prime Minister Narendra D Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party is seeking another unprecedented third term in office, for increased majority numbers in the “Lok Sabha “, the House of the People, the Lower House of Indian’s bicameral Parliament.

A feat achieved only by Shri Mahatma Gandhi’s political heir, Barrister and first Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. (1947 – 1964) The Indian election 2024 is more than an unprecedented historical event with global magnitude.

It is indeed a humongous democratic exercise where 969 million Indian voters are expected to cast their vote. That’s 26 million new registered voters since the 2019 elections. Only the brilliance of the Indian mind could strategize such gigantic electoral operations to immaculate precision headed by the Chief Electoral

Commissioner of India Shri Rajiv Kumar.

Intricately, the Election Commission of India has synchronised an electoral plan to ensure equal opportunity afforded to each of the 969 million Indian Citizens to cast their vote.

Equal opportunity indeed, even for a geographically isolated solitary lone voter, a monk, Mahant Haridasji Udasinm residing in the dense forests of Gir, home to the Asiatic lion. A unique polling booth has been set up for this single voter. The Election Commission of India, true to her principle that every vote counts. Well, I do not know about you, but us in Brisbane Indian Times, in moments like this lift our heads in pride and gratitude for our India heritage. An endeared demonstration of India’s commitment to democratic processes a testament in the lengths it goes to ensure every citizen can exercise their right to vote.

8 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024

Our Monk Udasinm’s pooling station in the Lion infested Gir forest is just one of the 10,500 polling Stations over the 82 polling days, manned by around 15,000,000 polling officials travelling by foot, road, special train, helicopter, boat and sometimes elephant.

These figures are mindblowing, so why not take a glass of water before you continue to enjoy reading Brisbase Indian Times take of this global phenomenon.

Now, let’s breath a bit and equate some semblances say in numeracy in relation to other nations voter numbers. Let’s do a bit of arithmetic of voter numbers; Australia – 17M, Argentina – 36M, Brazil – 156M, Indonesia – 204M, Pakistan – 128M, Bangladesh – 119M, Russia – 114, South Africa – 27M, USA – 168M. All these 9 major populace countries combine would probably equal India’s 969M Indian registered voters. India’s registered voter figure of 969M is around a sixth of

the world population.

Credible political commentators predict that Hon Prime Minister Narendra D Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party will be returned to office, this time with an even larger majority over the Congress and coalition partners.

Prime Minister Narendra D Modi’s vision for postmodern India ironically may reverberate the industrial and modernity vision of the father of the Congress, Indian first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.

On a rare occasion Prime Minister Nehru’s vision was in loggerhead to Mahatma Gandhi “model was “swadeshi”, self-reliance— advocating simple home production of basic goods, promoting self-sufficiency in the village homes, and a spinning wheel in every hut”.

Prime Minister Nehru sought self-sufficiency in industrialization paddling his central objective "to get rid of the appalling poverty

of the people." His vision for India were in technology and progress, in machines and industrialization.

Seventy-seven years on from the Ghandi-Nehru era the geopolitical and global economic landscape have dramatically metamorphosed to the, aeronautical, IT and Digital spheres.

In our post-modern contemporary world economy, India, a far cry from the manual spinning wheel, now, the largest global exporter of IT. Global Business and Strategic Technology provider and Consultants, GARTNER and STATISTA, affirms, India holds about 55% of global IT outsourcing share.

The largest consumer of India’s outsourcing services is the US at around 60%.

It is not at all surprising therefore that major Tech conglomerates in the US are reported to have very close ties with Prime Minister Modi and his Government.

Big Tech Company’s like Apple’s expansion into India has turbo charged Prime Ministers Modi chances for political supremacy in India after June 4th, 2024.

The Modi Government is known to have established in depth discussion with a large number of powerful Silicon Valley Bosses.

In a future issue of the Brisbane Indian Times, we will explore further India’s prestigious dominance in these spaces.

As we earnestly wait for the result of the Lok Sabha election the US Indian diaspora has been reported to be severally right across the US conducting Havan for Prime Minister Modi's resounding victory!

Will Prime Minister Narendra D Modi continue to scribe the “Panchavati” as his home address for the next five years?

That is can only now be determined by the 969,000,000 registered voters of motherland Bhārat Gaṇarājya – India.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024 — 9

Victory Speech by Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele Your Excellency, Sir David Vunagi, Governor General of Solomon Islands; Fellow Members of Parliament; Members of the diplomatic corps; Members of the media; Ladies and gentlemen My good people of Solomon Islands, first I give praise and glory to our Father in Heaven for His continuous protection, guidance and blessings.

Let me also congratulate our people of our beloved country for electing their Members of Parliament on 17 April 2024. The people have spoken.

Solomon Islands on that very day, in the words of the General Secretary of the g7+ who were observers during the election, celebrated a “festival of democracy”.

Today, the Members of Parliament that you elected have discharge their first duty, and that is electing the Prime Minister. I humbly

New Solomon Islands Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele stand before you, as your Members of Parliament have graciously elected me to serve you as your Prime Minister and of our beloved country. Past Prime Minister’s election have been met with act of violence and destruction. Our economy and livelihoods have suffered because of this violence.

However today, we show the world that we are better than that. We must respect and uphold the democratic process of electing our Prime Minister and set an example for our children and their children.

I wish to pay tribute to the people of Guadalcanal for graciously giving up their land and allowing us to host our capital, Honiara.

I continue to acknowledge the past, present and future traditional customary landowners of this place upon where we stand today and make this call for us inhabitants of Honiara, to show to our Landowners the respect that they should be given. Honiara has become home to many of us and we must treat it as such.

Please supply the information and photographs to namastejitendra@gmail.com Attention: Jitendra Deo 10 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024

I also acknowledge the other candidate for Prime Minister, Hon. Mathew Wale and the other coalition group. I trust that as the alternative government you will be vigilant in providing the check and balance to the Government of National Unity and Transformation.

Whilst we may be on opposing sides, we all have one ultimate purpose that is to serve our people and country. May God grant you wisdom in the discharge of your duty to our People.

My good people, it is reported that the recovery of the global economy is steady but slow. We as a country continue on the recovery path after the COVID -19 global pandemic and 2021 riots. The recent report by CBSI on the state of our economy is concerning and calls for a more focused and aggressive approach. It is not an easy task, but we will be reaching out to all relevant stakeholders as we progress on our road to recovery.

Our immediate task now is to appoint Cabinet and we will do that in the coming

days. The next business to attend to is the Parliament meeting when all Member of Parliament will be taking their oaths before electing the Speaker and Deputy Speaker. I am sure that all Members of Parliament look forward to taking their oath.

The Government for National Unity and Transformation has already begun work on our Policy and 100 days program.

We hope to unveil it soon.

There are also a number of legislations that are ready to come before Parliament.

These Bills include the Value Added Tax Bill, Special Economic Zone Bill, Mineral Resources Bill, Forestry Bill and others.

Cabinet will meet to decide on the priority legislative and policy programs for 2024, which includes whether we need to revise the 2024 Budget.

I am very humbled by the trust that my fellow Members of Parliament have bestowed upon me.

This is indeed a historic moment for my people of Isabel Province as well, to have one of their sons as the Prime Minister of Solomon Islands. I will discharge my duties diligently and with integrity. I will at all times put the interest of our people and country above all other interests.

Leading a nation is never an easy task. I ask that you remember me and your Government in your daily prayers so we may serve as our Lord command.

My good people of Solomon Islands, I pledge my loyalty and fealty to our National Anthem, our Flag, the Constitution and our nation.

We are one people. We are one nation. We are Solomon Islands.

To God be the Glory great things He has done.

May God bless you all, May God bless the 12th Parliament and May God bless Solomon Islands from shore to shore.

Source: Solomon Islands Government, Department of Information

Former Solomon Islands Policeman studying Hospitality Management in a Brisbane Institution

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024 — 11

“April Market Smart – Undersupply Fuels Continued Growth”

April indicated continued robust growth in Australian real estate, particularly in Perth, Adelaide, and Brisbane.

Perth led the growth, with a 6.0% increase in dwelling values over the past three months, solidifying its status as the top performer

among Australian capitals.

Adelaide and Brisbane also exhibited strong growth, with increases of 3.3% and 3.1%, respectively.

In contrast, Sydney and Hobart showed more subdued growth rates of 1.1% and 0.8%, respectively. Melbourne's

market remained flat, with no change in dwelling values, indicating a stabilization phase.

The convergence of growth rates between capital cities and regional markets is narrowing, with regionals experiencing a 2.1% increase compared

to 1.7% for capitals. This trend reflects a broader redistribution of growth across geographic areas, influenced by lifestyle shifts post-COVID and the increasing appeal of affordable housing outside

As we’ve explored in some prior articles, the interest rate narrative has grown increasingly nuanced in recent weeks.

of metropolitan areas.

Things to keep an eye on: Interest rates:

Expectations of a rate rise have risen dramatically in light of unexpected inflation and some

concerning developments in the US economy.

Still, it should be stressed that a rate hike remains unlikely, and the rise in expectations for one seems largely overblown for now. If anything, we’re probably heading for a longer wait than expected before we’ll see a first rate cut.

Most expectations are that RBA will stick to a highly cautious ‘wait and see’ approach, rather than leaping into a knee-jerk course reversal.

Immigration: Towards the end of April, the ABS released official numbers for permanent and long-term arrivals. Unsurprisingly, immigration continues to breaks records on every level: Building Approvals: Rates of building approvals have picked up in recent months, driven mainly by approvals for detached houses.

However, despite the increase, approval rates remain well short of what is required to match pace with immigration:

Perth is experiencing by far the largest boom in residential building approvals, as Perth’s ongoing house price exuberance further drives speculation and profitchasing.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024 — 13

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024 — 17

FOCUS ON FIJI

Ba Methodist Saints historic win The Ba Methodist High School Under-15 rugby league team has made history by being the first school from the Western Zone to win the U15 trophy at the Vodafone Fiji Secondary School Rugby League (FSSRL) National Finals Competition in Nadi last week.

They have etched their names in the chronicles of secondary school rugby league history in Fiji.

The team that was third seed in the Western Zone competition defeated the Southeast Zone number one seed, Queen Victoria School to win 20-6.

It was a proud moment for the team, the school and

supporters.

Ba Methodist Saints coach, David Wise said QVS defeated them in the national quarter-finals last year 22-18.

“I’m so proud of the boys for turning the table this year,” he said.

“I would like to thank the Lord Almighty for being the pillar of strength for our team, the school principal, guardians, parents, Netava Rarokoliwa Tora, Parents and Teachers Association (PTA), the Nadi old scholars and our school supporters for supporting us throughout our journey.

“Discipline and hard work during training really paid-

off.

“They executed the game plan accordingly and our strong defence made us win on Saturday.”

He said the boys were really looking forward to the

finals since they had created history by being the first school team to reach a final in the national rugby league competition.

“Building up to the final I told the boys discipline will

Torch comes in a full circle After 21 days and 86 school visits, the Powerade National Torch is back in Suva awaiting the CocaCola Games that will start tomorrow at the HFC Stadium in Suva.

The torch which made its rounds in the last five weeks is now ready to light up the three-days Fiji Finals competition.

Youth and Sports Minister, Jese Saukuru wishes all the high school students the best of luck in their preparations for the Coca-Cola Games this year.

He encouraged all participants to give their best effort and to showcase their talents on the field.

He emphasised the importance of

camp, ice for ice bath, etc.

“Lastly was that they should have a story to tell after the game, so they have to execute our game plan in order to create history. Hats off to the boys.”

FSSRL media officer, Lai Corerega said in the past the competition was only held for the Southeast Zone schools.

“Ba Methodist is the first from the Western Fiji Secondary School Rugby League Zone to win the competition,” Mr Corerega said.

“Previous winners included the Marist Storms, the Nasinu Panthers, the QVS Knights and the RKS Eels.”

MGM creates history Sera Nasilivata of MGM High School celebrates in style after winning the sub junior girls’ 4x100m finals during the 2024 Coca-Cola Games at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva yesterday.

Picture: JONACANI LALAKOBAU

Singh: Workers must do their fair share sportsmanship, teamwork and dedication in achieving success.

According to a government statement, he

is confident that this year’s Coke Games will display exceptional talent and sportsmanship.

The torch relay

started from Taveuni and returned to the Coca-Cola Europacific Partner’s Fiji office where it will stay until tomorrow May 2.

Taf’aga Outrigger Canoe Club hopes to develop young paddlers The Tafaga Outrigger Canoe Club has taken a significant step forward in promoting the development of young athletes in the world of outrigger canoe racing with the organisation of Suavak 3, held this weekend at the Laucala foreshore in Suva.

This event marks a milestone in the outrigger sport by placing a strong emphasis on the junior category, much like the renowned Waka Ama race.

Suavak 3 canoe racing focuses on junior competition that opens doors for young paddlers to showcase their talents and begin their journey toward athletic greatness.

The junior category race is dedicated to promising young hopefuls who aspire to excel in outrigger canoe racing.

Suavak 3 aims to uncover the next generation of Fijian

be the key component if we want to win the final,” he said.

“The parents and guardians of the team were very supportive and assisted the team in any way they could.

“Going into the final, the team were very confident that they could win the final.

“The team has really made the school proud.”

“The message before the finals was that the school will be celebrating its 125-year anniversary, so they have to win it for the school,” he said.

“Secondly, they have to also think of their parents, the sacrifices they have made by providing meals for the boys when they were in

paddlers who can make their mark on the sport.

In addition to promoting junior development, Tafaga Outrigger Canoe Club is using Suavak races as an opportunity to advocate for drug awareness among youths of Fiji.

The club is committed to fostering a culture of clean

competition and healthy lifestyles, ensuring that young paddlers understand the importance of avoiding illegal drugs substances and prioritising their well-being.

The level of competition at Suavak 3 is expected to be intense, with junior athletes challenging themselves and each other over long

distances.

Observers and coaches will be closely watching for standout performances that could lead to future opportunities for the most promising paddlers.

Tafaga Outrigger Canoe Club’s commitment to junior development and drug awareness underscores its dedication to nurturing the next generation of athletes.

Suavak 3 serves as a celebration of talent, sportsmanship, and the spirit of outrigger canoe racing, inspiring young paddlers to aim high and embrace a future filled with potential.

As the junior category race unfolds, the eyes of the outrigger canoe racing community are on Suavak 3, anticipating the emergence of new stars who will carry the sport forward in the years to come.

Minister for Employment, Productivity and Industry Relations Agni Deo Singh highlighted that workers must do their fair share of work.

He made this comment during the Fiji Trades Union Congress (FTUC) 50th Biennial Delegates Conference held in Nadi yesterday.

“The workers must be fair in their performance and must do your fair share of work,” he said.

Mr Singh said his ministry would ensure that the workers get their fair share of pay, provided they did their work diligently and with honesty.

“I have experienced this in the last several months talking to employers as well, while I am ensuring that our workers would be taken care of, but as workers we must be fair in our performance.”

He said the Coalition

Government had proven themselves by getting heavily involved after coming into office with multiple approach on many things that affected the workers in the country.

“We have taken on board the labour law review, removal of contractual agreement for civil servants, revocation of COVID-19 vaccination, amendment to the ENI listing alongside review of the national minimum wage and tripartism.

“As we commemorate the 50th Biennial Conference, let’s reaffirm your commitment to upholding the values of solidarity, equality and justice for all workers.”

Mr Singh said it was important to celebrate the union’s achievements, learn from their experience and chart a course for a future that is built on the principles of fairness, inclusivity and respect.

Above Stories and photos credit: www.fijitimes.com.fj 18 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024

PLEASE FIJI INDIANS OF GIRMITIYA DESCENDANTS, A PLEA TO HAVE SOME PRIDE IN YOUR HISTORY, HERITAGE AND LEGACIES LEFT BY GIRMITYAS.

GIRMIT REMEMBRANCE DAY – 14 MAY COMMEMORATING THE SACRIFICES OF GIRMITIYAS 1879-1919 14 May is a significant day in the calendar of Indo-Fijian history. It can be variously recognized but its foremost significance is the arrival of first ship Leonidas, with 479 Indian indentured immigrants (Girmitiyas) to Fiji in 1879. They were recruited to work largely in the sugarcane plantations.

This followed 82 other ships that transported over 60,000 Girmitiyas to Fiji. Indenture system (Girmit) came to an end on 31 December 1919 after a bitter struggle against the recruitment of Indian indentured laborers that saw the might of Mahatma Gandhi triumph over that of the British Government.

The Girmitiyas served their five-year term under gruesome conditions.

Physical violence, over tasking, low wages and atrocious living and working conditions contributed to Fiji recording highest rate of suicide in the world. A typical day for them began at 3am in the morning. A loud beating of empty drum by the Paaniwala awoke the tired Girmitiayas to the reality of their lives.

Those with aching bodies and torn muscles responded with despair and despondency to this evil sound. In such state, many opted to commit suicide to escape the horrors of Girmit in Fiji. According to one source, highest numbers of suicides were committed between 3am and 4am in the morning.

At 5am men and women were herded to the fields with their work implements to begin their daily tasks. Some mothers went to the fields with their babies in their arms. They walked for several miles to reach the plantations and left their children on the fringes of the farms where they worked. The children were exposed to the ravages of tropical weather, flies and mosquitoes and many succumbed to the adverse conditions. The mothers were not even allowed to feed the

Girmitiya Bansi who arrived in Fiji from Karouli, Rajasthan in 1915.

Professor Brij Lal, who gave voice to voiceless Fiji Indian Girmitiyas, being the greatest Fiji Girmit Scholar, who gave us the term GIRMIT

Senior Girmitiya descendants in Auckland Girmit Remembrance Day in 2014, honouring the departed Girmitiyas babies when required, as it impeded productive use of their labor. It contributed to Fiji recording the highest rate of infant mortality among the colonies that deployed indentured labor.

Critics claim that infanticide was a clandestine plan of the authorities as it relieved the mothers from caring for their babies.

In the circumstances, the victims served their Girmit resigned to their fate. They bore the atrocities largely due to their belief in karma.

The Girmitiyas accepted that their pain and suffering was God-ordained and that it was retribution against their past deeds. They were reconciled to the belief that their service in penance would release their children from the sufferings that destroyed their lives. For cultural reasons, they retained a morbid silence and avoided speaking

about it to their children lest it tarnish their image. It was a momentous sacrifice that the pioneer generation made for their children. I hold that it was one of the greatest sacrifices made in the history of humanity.

Sadly, very sadly, the beneficiaries of their sacrifices – we, their children have not acknowledged, recognized or commemorated their sacrifices as it should have been. Yet, successive generations of Indo-Fijians have benefited and built their lives on the foundations of the pioneer generation. It is largely because of a grave misconception. The IndoFijian perception of that period was one of shame when, in essence, the shame did not belong to them. It was British Government and the CSR Company shame. This misconception, unfortunately, estranged

The first Girmit Ship, Leonidas, during Girmit celebrations in 2021 the Indo-Fijian community from seeking redress and reparations from those who exploited them. It would have run into millions of dollars.

It is because of this that the Colonial Government deliberately erased our Indo-Fijian history so that we may not seek redress.

Indo-Fijian children were denied the opportunity to learn their own history in schools. Instead, indigenous and British history was taught.

The Indo-Fijian community, in its 133-year history, remained ambivalent towards its history and it suited those who wanted to hide their iniquities. Much has been lost as a result of illiteracy and ignorance. It cannot be the reason now as the Indo-Fijian community has a high rate of literacy.

It can easily differentiate

between grain and chaff.

It is time that IndoFijian community reclaims and restores its history so that generations now and generations to come are able to draw inspiration from its tragic but fascinating history.

Arguably, no community can hide or run away from its history. History is not a hitching post but a guiding light for every community.

A community without history does not belong to the human planet. Tears in Paradise – Suffering and Struggles of Indians in Fiji 1879-2004 is my contribution to our community and a tribute to the Girmitiyas. It has stirred the hearts and minds of many. It took me seven years of research and writing and projects Girmit from a perspective, based on unadulterated truth that

has melted the hearts of the readers.

Observing Girmit Remembrance Day on 14 May (or around this date) every year, will be a small but significant step by the Indo-Fijian community to commemorate the sacrifices of the pioneer generation and to reclaim and restore its history. It is a community with its own language and a distinct Indo-Fijian culture.

In the cultures of the world, it has its own distinct place of eminence for it is vigorous and vibrant because it was structured on the strong foundation of the beloved Girmitiyas.

I implore, Indo-Fijians to commemorate the sacrifices of the pioneer generation with solemnity and sobriety, paying obeisance to those who laid their lives at the altar of sacrifice. It could be done through established religious, cultural and social organizations or even individual families could offer prayers and recitals in their homes in memory of those whose lives were tragically lost.

Let our children be nourished by our history – a history of struggle, endurance, resilience and achievement. Let us all retrieve, reclaim and reconnect our stolen history to the new generation.

SHAT SHAT NAMAN TO OUR GIRMITIYASA SALUTATION TO ALL GIRMITIYAS WHO SUFFERED AND SACRIFICED FOR US. [About the Author: Thakur Ranjit Singh is a Founding Trustee of Auckland-based Fiji Girmit Foundation NZ, which ewquested for Fiji Girmit Public Holiday recognition in Fiji. He is a journalist, a media commentator and a blogger, based in Auckland. Views expressed here are not necessarily of this publication. Email: thakurjifj@gmail.com]

Pete Lane Rai continues his April BIT report about the voluntary work that he had done in Fiji in March While I was staying in Nadi for most of my visit, I did travel the short 20 km by bus to Lautoka, Fiji’s second largest city for a week end with longtime friends, Rowena and husband, Daesong who, four times a year, organize a week of free Dental treatment to local villagers.

Rowena, as well as being one of the dentists giving the treatment, orders all the dental equipment needed, as well as the visas for the team of overseas volunteers, which recently included students from a Brisbane Bayside School.

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Daesong cooks all the meals to feed the team of busy hardworking volunteers and the villagers and their children appreciate all the treatment they receive.

Whenever I am in humid Lautoka, I always run the 10 km loop around the town that includes the one kilometre of sea front. Amongst those walking, fishing or exercising I was pleasantly surprised to see my old friends from Life runners, a Christian group, in their familiar blue shirts.

Every Saturday morning, at 7.00am, they walk through Lautoka as a statement that,

all life is given from God, it is therefore sacred from conception to a natural death.

They are hoping this will cause pregnant women considering having an abortion, to change

www.indiantimes.com.au

their minds and think of other options.

In Fiji, abortion is legal if the abortion will save the woman’s life or if the pregnancy gravely endangers the woman’s physical or mental health.

Abortion is also significantly restricted by law in other Pacific Island countries such as Papua New Guinea, Vanuata, Solomon Islands, Samoa, Cook Islands and Tonga.

Later that Saturday morning I was involved with a discussion with some young people about understanding that as our sexuality is also a gift given from God, it is to be

valued and wise choices made about sexual behavior. This is a very important message for young Fijians to consider as reports show that the dangers of sexual disease are highest amongst 1525-year-old Fijians and that in late 2023, Fijians downloaded enough pornography to fill 20 million books!

Certainly, there are some serious sexuality issues to address in Fiji.

So, overall, I had a profitable time in Fiji and hope to return again possibly in September of this year.

By Peter Lane Rai. April 25th, 2024

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024 — 19

WHY DO YOU WORRY?

Pastor Suresh Dass Joseph josephdass@optusnet.com.au Dear reader, it is with much joy that we bring you the word of God. Worry comes to everyone in diverse ways and times.

Worrying thoughts will tell you, “What if the interest rates keep going up? What if you cannot find a place to rent? What if the medical report is not favorable.” The list goes on. Most times, worry can be temporary, yet excessive worry can affect your health, physically weakening your immune system while mentally it can cause you to become depressed.

Often, we worry about trying to figure out everything, or we are afraid not to lose control of our situations.

Once, a man was riding his donkey with a load on it. After travelling for some time, the man thought his donkey was carrying too much weight, so he picked up the load and put it on his head. A man passed by and asked why he did not let

the donkey carry that load instead. Worry is like that.

One scripture says, “Drop all things that will weigh you down.”

Just like the man on the donkey, when we worry, we are carrying someone else’s load. It will weigh you down.

It does not belong to you; it belongs to someone else.

Jesus told His listeners (Matthew 6v31,33), “Do not worry, saying what shall we eat, drink, or wear… But seek the kingdom of God first, and all these things shall be added to you.” Jesus says that when you worry, you doubt what God can do for you. God is not going to add to you when you put a limit on Him. Some of the things you could be worried about, God has already fixed it for you. In the unseen realm of what was meant for your harm, God has the situation all turned around in your favour. That medical report is now in your favour. God has put the right person in charge of your application, and your visa application has been successful.

In the bible (Acts 9), we read God told Ananias to go and pray for Saul. Now, Saul was one of the greatest threats to the Christians of his day. He was going about persecuting Christians, putting them in prison, and some died at his hands.

Fearing for his own life, Ananias did not want to go and pray for Saul. But God already had heard

their prayers. As Saul was moving to persecute more Christians, Jesus met him.

Saul fell from his horse after seeing a bright light from heaven. For three days, he became blind and could not eat or drink. During this time, the Lord had changed his heart completely.

Now, he was no longer an enemy but a friend of the very Christians, including Ananias, he was going to harm.

Here are 3 things we can learn from Ananias.

1. Worry does not take

away tomorrow’s trouble.

It takes away today’s peace.

Worry does not change anything. It does not add anything. The only person who changes is you. When your peace is taken away, you feel pain and live upset and frustrated.

2. Most of the things we worry about never happen.

What Ananias thought was a problem, trouble, and disaster for him, God had changed everything in his favour. Saul was no longer going to hurt him but help him. You will have no time to worry about what has not changed when you get busy

thanking God for what has already changed in your favour.

3. The less you worry about what others think of you, the less complicated your life will become.

Worry robs you of your energy; it weakens your immune system.

God supplies you with enough grace for a day. Worry can cause you to lose that grace much quicker, so you go through the day tired, exhausted, and weak. Jesus said, “Do not worry but … seek God and His kingdom first.” The more your trust is in the Lord, the less worry-

Jesus said “Arise and Shine…”

Key Scriptures:

As for you, you thought evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring about that many people should be kept alive, as they are this day.

Genesis 50:20 (Amplified Bible) The stories of the Bible are all about forgiveness and redemption.

And these stories beautifully reveals the heart of God. Ultimate forgiveness of sins and restoring our broken relationship is God’s primary purpose.

We see this theme is clearly communicated in the story of Joseph, the son of Jacob.

He was betrayed and rejected by his own brothers.

Through this true story, you can see how God turns evil intentions of others into a great redemption.

In the land of Canaan, there lived a young man named Joseph. Hated by his brothers for his father's favouritism, Joseph's life took a drastic turn when his siblings plotted to kill him out of jealousy. Instead, they sold him as a slave into Egypt, leaving him to navigate the harsh reality of betrayal and rejection.

Joseph story gets from bad to worst. Later Joseph is accused of a serious crime: an attempted rape!

But, Joseph’s journey in Egypt was marked by servitude and adversity.

Despite his diligence and integrity, he was falsely accused of attempted rape by his master's wife.

Betrayed once again, Joseph found himself imprisoned, grappling with feelings of anger and bitterness towards those who wronged him.

But the Bible reminds us that God was with Jesus in all his troubles. Do you feel that you are abandoned by God while facing trials and tests of life?

But there is a supernatural power available to you; But only when we walk in forgiveness and love. When you let go off all anger and hatred.

20 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024

Amidst the darkness of his circumstances, Joseph discovered the transformative power of forgiveness. Rather than succumbing to resentment, he chose to embrace love and compassion. Through divine intervention, Joseph interpreted dreams that eventually led to his release from prison and elevation to a position of power in Egypt.

As famine ravaged the land, Joseph's brothers journeyed to Egypt in search of food. Unbeknownst to them, they encountered the brother they had once betrayed. Instead of seeking vengeance, Joseph extended forgiveness and reconciliation,

demonstrating the unwavering nature of love.

And this is the true nature of Jesus!

Joseph's story serves as a timeless testament to the enduring power of love.

Despite enduring hatred, betrayal, and injustice, he exemplified the transformative nature of forgiveness. Through his actions, Joseph saved many from perishing and restored broken relationships, embodying the profound truth that love never fails.

In a world plagued by division and strife, Joseph's journey serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration.

Like Joseph, we are faced with challenges that test

our resolve and character.

Yet, by choosing to walk in forgiveness and love, we can overcome adversity and bring about redemption in our own lives and the lives of others. As we embrace the fruit of the spirit and let go of bitterness and resentment, we unlock the boundless potential of love to heal, restore, and transform.

Like Joseph, let us choose love over bitterness and anger. Because love never fails. Love overcomes all barriers. Love is kind and patient, love is the key to the purpose driven life. The Bible rivals that God is love.

And if we follow His ways and word, we cannot fail and we will not fail.

free and complicated your life will be. So don’t worry about tomorrow; God is already there. He is called the Alpha and the Omega.

God who was, Who is, and Who is to come.

I believe a worry-free life is possible with a right relationship with God through His Son Jesus.

When you make Jesus Christ your Lord and your Saviour, God helps you trust Him in every situation and need you could have. The word of God says the same power that raised Jesus from the dead is now available to you. God bless you.

Redemption and reconciliation is the core of the Bible message.

Jesus, became the lamb of God to reconcile the broken relationship between sinful mankind and the Holy God. Like Joseph, he was rejected and betrayed by his own people. But Jesus was working out the plan of God to redeem all mankind.

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

Pray this simple prayer with a sincere heart: Dear God, I come to you and ask for your forgiveness. For the Bible says that, all have sinned and fallen short of your Holy way of life. Therefore, forgive my many sins. I believe that Jesus died for my sins and rose again for my salvation (Moksha).

Give me a new mind and heart to know your word and your ways. I pray this Jesus name. Amen Please email to us your encounter experience, so we can help you to grow in the understanding your Creator and Redeemer. navig8grace@gmail.com

Unity in Diversity: One and All Harmony Festival

Springfield Lakes, Queensland - March 23, 2024 - Laughter, camaraderie, and a vibrant celebration of multiculturalism marked the One and All Harmony Day Festival, hosted by the Vedanta Centre in Springfield Lakes on Saturday, March 23rd. On a tropical Saturday afternoon, families and friends gathered for an evening of free entertainment and cultural exchange.

The festival, dedicated to commemorating Australian multiculturalism and the successful integration of migrants

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into the community, was a resounding success, drawing in about 450 attendees.

From lively jumping castle, market stalls from local businesses, delectable cuisine and groovy beats of live music and mesmerizing dance, the event offered something for everyone.

This years festival featured pperformances

by Uncle Glenn Barry (Welcome to Country), Ashwini Nandkumar (Bharatanatyam dancer), Singers from Philippines, Sargam Music Academy, African Drumming group Balaki Balaka, PanAlchemy

featuring Tsoof Baras and Darshil Shah on handpans and bansuri flute.

Reflecting on the event, organizers expressed their joy at witnessing the diverse community coming together in the spirit of friendship and unity. "I think it’s a real strength to have diversity," said one participant. "How lucky we are to have all these incredible cultures living within a few kilometers of each other, being able to share their incredible culture with each other."

The sentiment was echoed by Swami Atmeshananda, resident

monk and head of Vedanta Centre Brisbane, "In a world that is increasingly less tolerant of difference, the message of Vedanta is extremely important.

Vedanta teaches that we are part of a larger, interconnected whole and we must not just tolerate others, but accept people as they are. The One and All Harmony Festival is a small effort towards this goal and small efforts ultimately lead to great results.”

Harmony Day, celebrated annually on March 21st, is a testament to inclusiveness, respect, and belonging for

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This years festival featured pperformances

by Uncle Glenn Barry (Welcome to Country), Ashwini Nandkumar (Bharatanatyam dancer), Singers from Philippines, Sargam Music Academy, African Drumming group Balaki Balaka, PanAlchemy featuring Tsoof Baras and Darshil Shah on handpans and bansuri flute. all Australians, irrespective of their cultural or linguistic backgrounds. "Events like today are really important because we live in a society

that is so diverse," noted Menaka Thomas, volunteer production manager.

"Australia is the land that welcomes and integrates people from all around the world, and they call Australia home."

The One and All Harmony Day Festival serves as a reminder of the richness that diversity brings to our communities and the importance of fostering an inclusive society where everyone feels valued and respected.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact: Sally Kinnaird, Communications Coordinator, Vedanta Centre Brisbane (sally@ vedantabrisbane.org, 0426430292)

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024 — 21

Ayodhya in Thailand In March 2024, my wife and I travelled to Thailand and Laos. Both countries are located on the Indochina peninsula of Southeast Asia. The majority of the population in both countries follow Theravad Buddhism, which has close cultural and historical links with India.

Thailand is officially known as the Kingdom of Thailand. The kingdom was known as Siam until 1939. The word Siam is the local pronunciation of the Sanskrit word Shyam, which means dark or brown, and is also one of the alternate names of Lord Krishna. Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia and Malaysia share its landline borders.

The country has long coastlines in the gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea, and shares maritime borders also with India, Indonesia and Vietnam.

The official name of Laos is Lao People’s Democratic Republic. It is a socialist country with a single legal political party. The Party through its Politburo and Central Committee determines government policies for the country.

The country is landlocked and shares its borders with Thailand, Myanmar, China, Vietnam and Cambodia.

Thailand - The word Thai means ‘free man’ in the Thai language and Thailand means the land of free people. Thailand has a constitutional monarchy with a democratic form of government. The kings in Thailand are referred to as King Ram with successive numbers. The name Ram was adopted from the name of the Hindu god Ram, an incarnation of Vishnu. The current king is the King Ram X. The country has a population of around 70 million. More than half of its residents are urban dwellers. Bangkok is the capital and the largest city with a population of over 11 million. It has two airports named Suvarnabhumi airport and Don Mueang airport. We landed at the Suvarnabhumi airport.

The capital city Bangkok is officially known in Thai as Krung Thep Maha Nakhon, which is composed of Pali and Sanskrit language root words. It is translated in brief as ‘the great city of angels’. The full-length translation of the name is ‘the city of angels, great city of immortals, magnificent city of nine gems, seat of the king, city of royal palaces, city of gods incarnate erected by Vishvakarma at Indra’s behest’.

Bangkok finds its origin as a small trading post during the Ayutthaya Kingdom in the 15th century. Because of its strategic location near the mouth of the river, the town gradually increased in importance. After the fall of Ayutthaya in 1767, the newly crowned King Taksin established his capital on the western banks of the

River Chao Phraya, which became the base of the Thonburi Kingdom.

In 1782, the King Rama I succeeded Taksin and moved the capital to Rattanakosin on the eastern banks of the River Chao Phraya. His domain became known as the Rattanakosin Kingdom. He started the Chakri dynasty, which is still the ruling royal house of Thailand.

The City Pillar, a tourist attraction, was erected on 21 April 1782, which is regarded as the date of foundation of Bangkok as the capital. It eventually grew and became the site of two capital cities, Thonburi and Rattanakosin, which are now central districts of Bangkok.

The city has numerous objects of tourist attractions that include the Grand Palace, Buddhist temples such as Wat Arun, and Wat Phra Kaew among many others, museums, parks, monuments and large shopping centres.

The term Wat denotes a Buddhist temple. The River Chao Phraya is the main waterway in the city, on whose banks many tourist attractions are located.

The Grand Palace is a part of large complex that encompasses Wat Phra Kaew, museums, halls and royal buildings. It is a former royal residence, which is now only used on ceremonial occasions.

Visitors are allowed to survey only a section of the Grand Palace grounds.

Many buildings serving specific royal purposes have intricate designs with Hindu and Buddhist motifs.

Wat Phra Kaew temple complex is the spiritual core of Thai Buddhism.

King Ram I commissioned the temple’s construction in 1783. Since then, successive kings have been involved in adding, restoring and embellishing its buildings during their reigns as a means of gaining religious merit and glorifying their dynasty.

Many important state and royal ceremonies are held within the temple each year, presided by the king in person and attended by government officials. This designates the temple the

22 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024

nation's preeminent place of worship and a national shrine for the monarchy and the state. Throughout the years, kings have donated sacred and valuable objects to the temple, making it a treasury as well.

The Emerald Buddha is enshrined in the Wat Phra Kaew and hence the temple is commonly known as the Temple of Emerald Buddha. It is considered to be an object of national veneration. The statue of Buddha is carved in the mode of meditation from a block of Jasper gemstone.

It is located high up on a tiered base in an altar of wood designed to represent the aerial chariot of a heavenly being. Because of its green colour it is called Emerald Buddha.

Ramakian Murals depicting episodes from the Thai version of the Ramayan are displayed along the Wat Phra Kaew temple complex perimeter, starting from the entrance gate. They are under cover and spread over 2 km on the wall. They are well maintained and easy to understand.

Descriptions are provided near the scenes.

Wat Arun is located in the Thonburi district on the western banks of the River Chao Phraya. On this site, there had previously been a temple from at least the late 16th century. After the fall of Ayutthaya, King Taksin came across the shrine at sunrise and interpreted it as an auspicious sign. He took control of the site and established the new capital.

He built a royal palace and a temple. The Emerald Buddha, which was brought from Vientiane, the capital of Laos, was housed in the temple.

After the capital and the Emerald Buddha were relocated to the other side of the river in Rattanakosin, King Ram II renamed the temple after the Hindu god Arun also know as Usha or Dawn.

It is believed that King Ram II himself designed the main Buddha image at the temple. He started building the 82 m high central Khmer style tower, which was completed by King Ram III. Slightly lower

towers are located on the four sides of the central one. Steep stairs lead to the top of the central tower.

Tourists generally climb up to the lower level. The temple looks superb in size, designed with ornate floral mosaics made from broken, multihued porcelain.

Frequent cross-river ferries run over to Wat Arun Pier on the Chao Phraya River.

The magnificent towers of the temple present a mesmerising view from the river.

Ayutthaya – From Bangkok we undertook a daytrip to Ayodhya, spelled Ayutthaya in Thai English.

The town is located about 90 km north of Bangkok.

Most tourists visit the site known as Ayutthaya Historical Park, which is the area of the former capital of Siam, Ayutthaya.

King Uthong founded Ayutthaya in 1350 on an island surrounded by three rivers. He was also known by the name King Ram Thibodhi I. Scholars are divided over his origin. Some consider him of Khmer origin from Cambodia. Others believe him to be from the Chola kingdom in India. Despite his uncertain origin, naming his capital Ayodhya suggests that he must have been a devout follower of the Hindu god Ram. According to contemporary sources and maps, Ayutthaya was laid out according to systematic and rigid city planning grids, consisting of roads, canals, and moats around all the principal structures.

The scheme took maximum advantage of the city’s position in the midst of three rivers. It employed hydraulic systems for water management, which was pioneering technology at the time.

The capital flourished for more than 400 years and was an influential centre of power and commerce in the region. During its heyday, Ayutthaya had magnificent palaces, temples and well maintained public buildings.

The city was attacked and destroyed by the Burmese army in 1767. It was scorched to the ground and its inhabitants were

forced to abandon the city.

The city was never rebuilt.

The site was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List as Ayutthaya Historical Park in 1991. The park comprises four major temples known as Wat Phra Ram, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Mahathat, Wat Ratchaburana, and the Royal Palace and Wiharn Phra Mongkol Bophit.

Tour organisers include these famous sights in the itinerary.

Outside the park itself, historical sites are randomly scattered along the west, south and eastern parts of the outer sections.

Many of the archaeological finds from the ruins around Ayutthaya are exhibited at Chao Sam Phraya National Museum. By seeing the remains at the site and displays in the museum, one can imagine the status of the kingdom in its glory.

Laos – Laos is the only landlocked country in Southeast Asia.

Nearly three-quarters of Laos is covered in mountains and forested hills. The current population of the country is around 7.7 million.

Laos finds its origin in the historical kingdom of Lancang, which held the area of present day Laos from 1353 to 1707.

Following the period of internal conflict, Lancang broke up into three separate kingdoms, Luang Phrabang, Vientiane and Chapasak. In 1893, the three kingdoms became a French protectorate and were jointly named Laos.

It became an independent country in 1953.

From Bangkok’s Don Mueang airport, we flew to Wattay airport in Vientiane.

Vientiane is the capital and largest city of Laos with a population of around one million. The city is located on the banks of Mekong River, the third largest river in Asia. The Mekong River is vital as a transportation route for cargo and passengers, a source of electricity at dams, a water supply system for crops, and a home to fish, an important food in the diet of Laotian people.

Vientiane contains a number of tourist attractions, which we visited during our stay.

Important among them are Wat Si Saket, Wat Chanthabuli, Wat Ong Teu Mahavihan, Patuxai, Pha That Luang, and River Side Night Market.

Wats - Wat Si Saket is the city’s oldest surviving temple. In its name, Si is derived from the Sanskrit title of veneration Shree.

Saket is an alternate name of Ayodhya.

The temple was built in 1818 in a contemporary style of Buddhist architecture at the time, with surrounding terraces and an ornate five-tiered roof. The temple houses a museum with a large collection of items relating to its history and religion.

Wat Chanthabuli and

Wat Ong Teu Mahavihan are other temples located along the River and are good locations for meditation and prayers.

The Patuxai, which is translated as Victory Gate, is a massive concrete arch.

It is a reminiscent of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. The monument commemorates Laos’s resilience and eventual independence, as well as recognising those who lost their lives in the wars for independence.

Its exterior features Buddhist symbols and Hindu deities, with 5 ornate towers built in the traditional Laotian style.

The 4 corner towers and 5th central tower that crowns the arch symbolise the 5 Buddhist principles of thoughtful amiability, flexibility, honesty, honour and prosperity. Intricate carvings of lotus leaves, statues of Apsaras, the divine dancers and Nagas, serpents are carved on the Patuxai. The structure has beautiful walls and ceilings with paintings of gods, goddesses and elephants.

Pha That Luang or Great Stupa is a large gold covered Buddhist Stupa.

Emperor Ashok of the Indian Mauryan Empire is believed to have sent Buddhist missionaries to the ancient kingdom of the region. They brought a sacred relic believed to be the breastbone of Buddha and enshrined it into the stupa in the 3rd century BC. The structure was rebuilt in the 13th century as a Khmer temple, which later fell into ruin. It was reconstructed in the early 20th century. It is regarded as the most important national monument in Laos as well as a national symbol.

The Vientiane Night Market takes place along the Mekong Riverfront, where one can see rows of stalls selling handicrafts, clothes, and electronics.

There is also a children’s playground, a temple, a flower garden and an imposing statue of Chao Anouvong, a national leader, pointing across the Mekong River. Numerous restaurants serve local food along the riverside. There is an amusement park for children. In the night, one can see the lights in Thailand on the opposite side of the river. A long walking path is built along the riverbank.

From Vientiane, we returned to Bangkok and then to Brisbane. In the departure section of the Suvarnabhumi airport, there is a huge scene depicting the churning of the cosmic ocean during the tortoise incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Throughout the trip, we sensed with joy and recognition the influence of ancient India on the religion, language and names of persons and places of the region.

—Awadhesh Sharma www.hinduguru.com.au

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024 — 23

As migrants to Australia some of us may ask, WHY ANZAC? What is ANZAC really?

Stand for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps.

Every April 25th on the dot, we residents of Australia mandatorily observe a public holiday, and many converge in various location around Australia in solemn ceremony in remembrance of all Australians killed in military operations. This has been an endeared Australian tradition since the first ANZAC day soon after the first world war in 1916.

We’re asked to remember that on the 25th of April 1915, Australian and New Zealand soldiers, as allied soldiers vigorously attempt to capture the Gallipoli peninsula.

War historians remind us that the land-based element of a strategy intended to allow “Allied ships to pass through the Dardanelles, capture Constantinople (now Istanbul) and ultimately knock Ottoman Turkey out of the war.”

This war no easy military manoeuvre as the Australia and New Zealand soldiers we met with strategic fierce resistance from the Ottoman Turkish defenders.

This stalemate costs Australian Army and the then young country over 8,000 precious young lives.

No doubt the other side also suffered heavy casualties and ended with the evacuation of the Australia and New Zealand forces.

A typical Anzac Day Dawn Service ceremony may include: It gives us more than 8,000 reasons to stop and commemorate these wartime sacrifices for our modern-day liberty; some take for granted.

Over a pint or BBQ after the commemoration services descendants and friends of these brave men and women reminisce over heartwarming stories.

Shared are stories of where these soldiers’ friends and families sent food items and toiletries to the frontline.

Then shipping or other transportation for cargo takes weeks or even months in getting food items to the front lines. Over time the relative learn to send food items that would remain edible for long periods of transit and at best retain high nutritional value.

Hence, the birth of the widely known “ANZAC Biscuit!

Do we Indians fit in this ANZAC storyline at all?

Respected and

distinguished Australia War Historian and author Professor Peter Stanley in his cherished book “reveals the courage of Indian troops and their camaraderie with Australian soldiers during World War I in his book, “Die in Battle, Do Not Despair : The Indians on Gallipoli, 1915” In the summary of this Book, the National Library of Australia wrote:

“Summary: In 1915 about 15,000 Indian troops - two or three times as many as previously thought - served in the dramatic and doomed eight-month Gallipoli campaign. Their part in the invasion of Gallipoli has lain largely unknown since the publication of long disregarded regimental histories and forgotten British officers' memoirs.

Force G, as it came to be known, included Sikhs, Hindus and Punjabi Musalmans (as Muslim soldiers were called) and four battalions of Gurkhas.

They served in an infantry brigade, a mountain artillery brigade, in medical units and in a large contingent of mule drivers, who perhaps made the Indians' most important contribution to the campaign. About 1,600 of the Indians who served on Gallipoli died, in actions at Gurkha Bluff and Hill 60.

They took part in terrible, failed attacks, at Gully Ravine and Gully Spur and in the climactic attempt in August to seize the summit of Sari Bair - one of the Gurkhas' most cherished battle honours. Though commemorated on the great memorial to the missing at Cape Helles (because most Indians' bodies were cremated or, actually, lost) they are practically invisible on Gallipoli today.

The Indian story of Gallipoli has barely been told before.

Not only is this the first book about their part in the campaign to be published in the century since 1915, but it also tells their story in new and unexpected ways. Though inescapably drawing on records created by the force's British officers, it strives to recapture the

experience of the formerly anonymous sepoys, gunners, and drivers, introducing Indians of note - Mit Singh, Gambirsing Pun, Kulbahadur Gurung, and Jan Mohamed alongside the more familiar British figures such as Cecil Allanson, who led his Gurkhas to the crest of Sari Bair at dawn on 9 August 1915. It explores for the first time the remarkably positive relationship that grew on Gallipoli between Indians and Anzacs and includes a complete list of the Indian Army dead commemorated on the Helles Memorial on Gallipoli. Professor Peter Stanley, one of Australia's most distinguished military social historians, has drawn on an extensive range of unpublished evidence, including official and private records in Britain, Australia, New Zealand, and India to tell the story of the Indian experience of Gallipoli that has waited a century to be told.”

More reasons why we the Australian Indians should be humble and grateful of our Indian heritage.

May be next in Apil 25th 2025 we could sparingly organise an ANZAC-Indian commemoration after the major one in our Cities and Towns.

FICQ Executive Committee Members 2024-2026 FICQ Inc. completed our Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Sunday 28th April 2024. As per the process, Elections were conducted, and the new Executive Committee was elected.

The Federation will be led by Dr. Preethi Suraj for the term from 2024 to 2026. Dr Suraj is a Biotechnology Scientist by profession and has been associated with FICQ Inc and the Indian Communities for almost 2 decades now. She becomes the first Lady to take the mantle of FICQ Inc. President in its 26-year history.

Dr Suraj’s team comprises of seasoned Indian Community leaders, who have all lead or are leading Indian Community Organisations in South East Queensland.

The new Executive Committee for FICQ Inc. for 2024 - 2026 is as shown below

President: Dr Preethi Suraj Vice Presidents (2): Mr. Abhishek Sharma and Mr. Pradip Gorasia Secretary: Mr. Krishnan Menon Assistant Secretary: Mrs. Sunita Avadhani Treasurer: Mrs. Parul Mehta Assistant Treasurer: Mr. Pankaj Agarwal Festival and Cultural Coordinator: Mrs. Jyoti-Amarjot Goraya Public Relations Officer: Mr. Mokhtiar Singh The New committee has a number of projects already being worked on for the benefit of the Indian Diaspora and will be touch with the Community continuously.

24 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024

Chinmaya Mission Brisbane successfully celebrated its 5th Annual day

“Love is all you need” was the theme of Chinmaya Mission Brisbane’s annual day held on the 20th April.

It included performances by over 150 children, youth and adults and was attended by over 350 people. The evening started with performances expressing love for Krishna and highlighting the highest form of Love for God. The children enchanted the audience with their mesmerizing performances. This was followed by chanting of a few verses from Chapter 2 of the Bhagvad Geeta by the students of the Geeta chanting class.

“You can often give without Love, but you can never Love without giving”this was beautifully conveyed in Swami Shrikaranandaji’s talk as he captivated the audience with his storytelling.

Awards were presented

by Swamiji to ‘outstanding’ and ‘most improved’ students within each class and all the teacher volunteers (sevaks) were also recognised.

This was followed by a beautiful rendition of Matrstavanaman offering of gratitude to Mother, “My Chinmaya Family”- a heart-warming performance by parents followed by a medley of energetic and moving

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performances showcasing love for country by the boys.

The dance drama by teenagers left a lasting impact emphasizing that Love for our environment is critical for our own wellbeing and future as we are all interconnected and interdependent‘One Earth One FamilyVasudhaiva Kutumbakam’.

Finally, the youth wing of Chinmaya MissionChinmaya Yuva Kendra (CHYKs) expressed the importance of self-love and love for life in order to win the world with Love.

Established in 1953 by devotees of Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda, Chinmaya Mission endeavours to facilitate inner growth through the teachings of Vedanta, spiritual disciplines and community service. With a global presence spanning over 300 mission centers, our mission provides a distinctive educational curriculum catering to individuals of all ages and life stages. For further information about our Chinmaya Mission in Australia and about our Brisbane centre, please visit our webpage: https:// www.chinmaya.com.au/ pages/brisbane-centre.

Authored by: Chinmaya Mission, Brisbane

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024 — 25

Du’a – Its Excellence, Benefits and Etiquettes

By Ml. M .Nawaaz Ashrafi Allah (SWT) describes the very purpose of our existence in the Quran as ‘uboodiyyah: Wa ma khalaqtul jinna wal insa illa liya’budoon I have only created jinn and men that they may worship me.

The term ‘ibadah is very encompassing and there are many different forms of ‘ibadah. One of the many forms of ‘ibadah that we often do not appreciate to the extent that we should is Dua. Now when we talk about dua, there are many questions that come to one’s mind. What is dua?

What are its blessings and its excellence? What is the proper etiquette that one must follow while making dua? Why is the dua of some people responded to and not that of the others?

How can one increase the chances of getting one’s dua accepted? Also, if everything is already predestined, then what is the purpose of making dua?

1. Dua – An Act of worship

Linguistically dua means to call out. The Quran uses this linguistic meaning and other related meanings as well, to request, to implore, to seek aid. Now dua is a form of worship in itself.

Allah says: Waqala rabbukumud u’nee astajib lakum.

Innalazeena yastakbiruna a’n ibadatee sayadkhuloona jahannama dakhireen And your Lord says: “Call on Me; I will answer your (Prayer): but those who are too arrogant to worship Me will surely find themselves in Hell – in humiliation!

Allah first tells us to make dua, then says those who are too arrogant to worship me, thus implying that dua is the essence or the crux of worship. That is why the Prophet (SAW) said: Innad dua huwal ibadah Dua is the worship Therefore, it is the essence of worship since it places us as creation at the proper level and it places Allah as our Creator at His proper level.

2. We are nearer to him than his jugular vein

Many times we feel that our hearts are far away and distant from Allah (SWT) but if we go to the Quran, we see that Allah (SWT), He uses the word Ya, which is the harfu nida or vocative

particle.

Harfu nida would be translated to something like O, e.g. Ya Abdallah, Ya Junaid, Ya binti and so forth. This is usually used as a sign of respect and is used to call someone when they are far away from you. So if I need to call someone who is like thirty feet away from me, I would say Ya Ahmed, even if they are 5 to 6 feet away from me, Ya Ahmed. But if someone is standing right next to me, I don’t need to use Ya because he is so close to me so I just say Ahmed.

Now if we look in the Quran brothers and sisters, we will not find a single dua in the Quran which is preceded by Ya. Because Allah (SWT) wants to show us that I’m so close to you by My Knowledge, I’m so close to you by My Absolute Hearing and Seeing, if you want to call on Me, O My servant, don’t say Ya, just say Rabbi and I will respond to you. And we find that Allah alludes to this in other verses of the Quran as well: Wa idha saalaka ‘ibadee ‘annee fa innee qareeb. Ujeebu da’watad daa’i idha da’aan When My servants ask you (O Muhammad) concerning Me, indeed I am Near: I respond to the invocation of the supplicant when he calls upon Me. (Al-Baqarah 186) If we look at those verses in the Quran in which Allah mentions the people asking the Prophet (SAW) about certain issues, we can see that Allah tells the Prophet (SAW) to respond back to the people with the answer. So for example: Yasaloonaka anil ahilla.

Qul hiya mawaqeetu linnasi wal hajj Yasaloonaka anish

26 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024

shahril haram.

Qul qitalun feehi kabeer Yasaloonaka anil maheedh. Qul howa azan In all these verses Allah commands His messenger ‘say to them’ but here Allah directly addresses us to indicate His closeness and nearness to us.

3. Dua – Sign of One’s Faith

Dua is a clear sign of one’s iman. When we make dua to Allah whether by whispering or making the dua in our heart, we automatically affirm that Allah can hear us. We are affirming His perfect nature. We are also affirming that He loves and cares about us. We also affirm that He has the qudrah, the power to respond to our dua. When we call out to Allah, we automatically give him certain names and certain attributes that He is deserving of; He is the All-Hearing, the AllSeeing, the All-Knowing, the Ever-Caring, the AllPowerful.

Fa iza rakibu fil fulki da’awullahu mukhliseena lahuddin.

Falamma najjahum ilal barri iza hum yushrikun And when they board a ship they supplicate to Allah, sincere to him in religion. But when He delivers them to the land, at once they associate others with Him. 4. Manifestation of Our Dua

Every single dua will be responded to by Allah though it may not be manifested in the way we wanted it to be. The Prophet (SAW) is narrated to have said: There is no person who asks Allah for anything except for that Allah gives it to him or keeps some

evil away from him.

When the companions heard this, they said that Ya Rasulullah if that is the case then we will increase our dua. The Prophet (SAW) said Allahu akthar.

Allah is more than that; meaning no matter how much you ask, Allah can give you more than that.

Another characteristics of dua is that it is the only act that can change predestination, i.e. the Qadr. The Prophet (SAW) said: La yaruddul qadar illad dua Nothing can repeal or change Qadr except dua The Prophet (SAW) said: Caution will not be of any benefit against qadar.

No matter how cautious you are, if something has been willed for you it will happen. But dua benefits matters that have occurred and will occur.

5. Dua & Causality

As human beings, we tend to seek out means and resources that could help us satisfy our needs. And we develop a normative understanding of our environment based on our observations. So if we feel cold, we use something like fire that could help keep us warm.

If we experience thirst, we use water to quench our thirst. But part of our belief as Muslims is that this very characteristic of fire to keep us warm and water to satisfy our thirst has been granted by Allah (SWT). So it is not the fire that keeps us warm or it is not the water that quenches our thirst but in reality it is the mercy of the Creator of fire and water due to which we are able to derive certain benefits from them. Now by saying this, in no way are we trying to deny the role of the means

but instead of placing our trust in the means, we place our trust in the provider of those means.

So while the Messenger of Allah instructed the sick to seek medical treatment, he (SAW) reminded them of the fact that it is Allah who has provided a cure for every illness. And that is why we read the beautiful dua of the prophet: Allahumma azhibil b’as Rabbannas, ishfi wa anta Shafi, la Shifa’a illa Shifauk O Allah remove the hardship, O Lord of mankind, grant cure for You are the Healer. There is no cure but from You. 6. Etiquettes of Making Dua

In terms of the etiquettes of making dua, there are many of them such as beginning by praising Allah and His Messenger (SAW), facing the qiblah, being in a state of ritual purity, and so forth. We’ll insha Allah look into some of these: 6.1. Using Tawassul to Make Dua

Tawassul refers to seeking means to draw nearer to Allah. There are two forms of tawassul that scholars unanimously agree upon, the first of these is tawassul via Allah’s names and attributes as Allah (SWT) says: Wa lillahil asmaa ulhusna fad’uhu biha And to Allah belong the most beautiful of names so call on Him by them.

The other is tawassul through our good deeds that we have performed sincerely for the sake of Allah.

This has been mentioned in a hadith narrated by Ibn ‘Umar (RA) in which the Messenger of Allah is

narrated to have said: “While three persons were traveling, they were overtaken by rain and they took shelter in a cave in a mountain. A big rock fell from the mountain over the mouth of the cave and blocked it. They said to each other. ‘Think of such good deeds which, you did for Allah’s sake only, and invoke Allah by giving reference to those deeds so that Allah may relieve you from your difficulty.

One of these men related the incident in which he had given precedence to his parents over his children on a certain occasion and he beseeched Allah saying that ‘if you considered that I had done that only for seeking Your pleasure, then please let there be an opening through which we can see the sky.’ So Allah made for them an opening through which they could see the sky.

Then the, second person related an incident in which he came very close to fornicate with one of his cousins whom he greatly admired when she reminded him to have fear of Allah and he abstained from it. He then said that ‘O Allah!

If you considered that I had done that only for seeking Your pleasure, then please let the rock move a little to have a (wider) opening.’ So, Allah shifted that rock to make the opening wider for them.

And the last person related his good deed in which he had invested the wages that he owed to one of his labourers. The investment multiplied by many folds. Later when this labourer came back to collect his wages, this person gave him not just the original wages but the entire profit earned out of it. So he said, O Allah! If You considered that I had done that for seeking Your pleasure, then please remove the remaining part of the rock.’ And so Allah released them (from their difficulty).”

6.2. Persistence and Patience The Prophet (SAW) said, the dua of any worshipper will be responded to as long as he is not hasty and impatient.

The companions asked Ya Rasulullah how can a person be impatient?

Rasulullah said impatient means that a person says that I have made dua but I see that Allah has not responded to me so he leaves the dua because he has not seen the effects of dua.

Contd. on pg 27

Contd. from pg 26

Zakariya (AS) made dua for decades, decades until he became an old man, but he kept on making dua o Allah don’t leave me without a heir, give me a son. He became so old that when the angel finally came, he was the first one to ask “how can I have a son, I’m too old and my wife is barren.” So, Allah responds, kazalik, We have already decreed this, you’re going to have a son and you’re going to call him Yahya. This is the kind of persistence that’s required my dear brothers and sisters.

6.3. Have an Attentive Heart and Soul The Prophet (SAW) is narrated to have said: Udu’ollaha wa antum moqinoona bil ijabah Make dua to Allah while you’re in a state of yaqeen and know that Allah does not respond to the dua from an inattentive heart.

You know the duas that we memorized since childhood and we continue to recite them without thinking about them, these are the type of duas that may fall under this category because they have a body but they lack a soul. Just like the salah that the Prophet (SAW) said “A person may not be rewarded at all for his prayer or he may be rewarded only one tenth,

one ninth and so on and so forth.” Because of the lack of khushu’ in the salah.

Another aspect is the concept of depression, anxiety and being completely negative in one’s outlook. Many people feel that they’ve done this and that and they’ve got a lot of dirt…

Oh I’m an evil person, how will Allah forgive me?

Allah will not answer my dua. If you go to the Quran and see the supplication that Iblees made after he had refused to bow down to Adam (AS). He said: Rabbi andhirnee ilaa yawmi yub’athun My Lord, give me respite until the day when they are resurrected To this, Allah (SWT) responded: Innaka minal munzireen You are among those who are given respite.

And our scholars have said that if Allah answered the dua of the worst of creation Iblees, then as we commit sins we should never be disappointed with the mercy of Allah and we should never give up on ourselves because He will indeed listen to us if we sincerely call upon Him. Indeed, Allah will answer the dua of those who sincerely seek Him and want to come back to Him and develop a relationship.

6.4.

Acknowledging One’s Sins Part of the etiquette of dua is to acknowledge one’s shortcomings and sins in front of one’s creator.

Imam Ahmed was once traveling and needed to stay somewhere overnight. When he went to the masjid, the guard (not recognizing Imam Ahmed) denied him entrance. Imam Ahmed tried numerous times, but the guard did not accept his requests. Frustrated, Imam Ahmed resolved to spend the night in the yard of the masjid. The guard became furious and dragged him away, despite the old age of Imam Ahmed. A baker, whose shop was nearby, watched this scene and took pity on Imam Ahmed. He invited the Imam to stay with him for the night.

While there, Imam Ahmed noticed that the baker continually made Istighfar (asking for Allah’s forgiveness) while working, and in the morning, the Imam eagerly asked his host about his continual seeking of forgiveness.

The baker said it had become like second nature for him. Imam Ahmed then asked whether the man had experienced any reward from this practice. The baker answered, By Allah!

No dua I made except that

it was answered but one.

And what is that duaa, asked Imam Ahmed. To be able to see the famed Imam Ahmed ibn Hanbal.

Imam Ahmed interjected, I am Ahmed ibn Hanbal!

He went on to add: By Allah! I was dragged to your place so that you can have your dua come true.

6.5. One’s Earnings be Halal One of the primary factors for dua not being accepted is that one eats or drinks or earns haram and the opposite is true as well. When one eats and drinks halal, this is one of the strongest ways that he could be verified and assured that his dua is accepted.

Inna ALlaaha ta’aala Tayyibun la yaqbalu illa tayyiban … Thumma dhakarar-rajul yuteelussafar, ash’atha wa aghbar, yamudu yadayhi ilassamaa: Ya Rabb Ya Rabb! wa mat’amuhu haraam wa mashrabuhu haraam wa malbasuhu haraam wa ghudhiya bilharaam, fa annaa yustajaabu lahu The Prophet (SAW) said “Allah is At-Tayyib and Allah only accepts that which is Tayyib.

Then further down in the hadith, the Prophet (SAW) mentioned a traveler on a long journey, who is disheveled and dusty, his appearance is bad. He stretches forth his hands and he says Ya rabb, ya rabb. In other words, the

Prophet (SAW) is giving an example of a person who is traveling and is cut off from his family and friends, alone in the desert, calling out to Allah. In general, this is the perfect situation to get your dua accepted when you are sincere.

Additionally, he is all alone. Additionally, he is dusty and dishevelled; this would get sympathy from Allah or get sympathy from us. On top of that he raises his hands forth and this is one of the etiquettes we learn, then he calls Allah by his attributes, ya rabbi, which is one of the strongest ways to get your dua accepted. He prays to be saved yet the Prophet (SAW) says: Wa mat’amuhu haraam wa mashrabuhu haraam wa malbasuhu haraam wa ghudhiya bilharaam, fa annaa yustajaabu lahu This person, he has eaten from haram, he has drunk from haram, he has bought his clothes from haram, he has been nourished by haram, how does he expect to be responded by Allah.

He has no hope for a response from Allah even though he has combined many of the factors which otherwise should earn a response.

We should make dua at all times, not only during times of distress. The Prophet (SAW) said:

“Whosoever desires that Allah answers his duas in unfavorable and difficult conditions, he should make plentiful dua in days of ease and comfort.”

We ask Allah (SWT) to accept our supplications, our duas. We ask Allah to purify our hearts from any ills which may cause our dua not to be heard or responded to by Allah (SWT).

Allahumma ilayka ashku ba’tha quwwatee wa qillata heelatee wa hawanee alan naas. Ya Arhamar Rahimeen, anta Rabbal Mustadafeen wa anta Rabbi. Ilaa man takilnee, ilaa ba’eedin yatajahham, am ila ‘aduwwan mallaktahu amree. In lam yakun bika alayya ghadabun fa la ubaal wa lakin ‘afiyatuka hiya awsa’u li.

I complain to you my lack of strength, my lack of resources and how insignificant I am to other people. O most Merciful of those who show mercy. You are the Lord of those who have no power and You are my Lord. Who are you going to leave me to? To some distant person who would be like the fire for me? Or to some enemy that you give him power over me? If you have no anger toward me [that you are not doing this out of your wrath], I have no objection but to give me ‘aafiya, its easier for me.

Eid Dinner Event by Crescent AusIndia Inc Celebrates Unity, Harmony, and Multiculturalism in Brisbane

[Brisbane, 22/04/2024] – Crescent AusIndia Inc, the esteemed Friends of Indian Muslims association, recently hosted an unforgettable Eid Dinner Event in Brisbane, drawing a diverse and enthusiastic crowd of guests, dignitaries, and community leaders. The event, held on 14th April 20204, served as a vibrant celebration of unity, harmony, and multiculturalism within Call: (07) 3192 5188

the Queensland community.

The Honourable Peter Russo MP, Member for Toohey, graced the occasion with his esteemed presence, highlighting the significance of the event in fostering community cohesion and understanding. Joining him was the distinguished Indian Muslim community leader, Mr. Ali Kadri, CEO of the Islamic College of Brisbane, who provided valuable

insights.

Representatives from the Queensland Police Commissioner's Office also participated, symbolizing a collaborative effort towards promoting inclusivity and dialogue among diverse communities.

Crescent AusIndia Inc, a non-profit community association dedicated to serving Muslims of Indian origin in Queensland.

Guided by the principles of justice, liberty, and equality, Crescent AusIndia Inc aims to foster collaboration among different communities, creating a harmonious and inclusive society where every voice is heard and valued.

"Our mission at Crescent AusIndia Inc is to empower individuals and promote understanding, tolerance, and active engagement in shaping a positive future

www.indiantimes.com.au

for all Australians," said Mr Yousuf AliKhan, President at Crescent AusIndia Inc. The evening was filled with multicultural participation, featuring recitations of both the Australian and Indian national anthems and captivating performances that enchanted the audience.

However, the highlight of the event was undoubtedly the delicious variety of food, including delectable desserts

that left everyone thoroughly satisfied.

The Eid Dinner Event

by Crescent AusIndia Inc served as a testament to the organization's commitment to promoting dialogue, inclusivity, and cultural exchange, reinforcing the rich diversity that characterizes Queensland's social landscape.

Authored by: Crescent AusIndia Inc

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024 — 27

Lalithakalalaya School of Bharatanatyam’s Ninth Annual Concert

Lalithakalalaya School of Bharatanatyam’s ninth annual concert was filled with grace, energy, colour and displayed immense talent.

Smt Padmalakshmi Sriram, guru and founder of the school, choreographed and curated all the dances. Her passion, talent and devotion to Bharatanatyam permeated throughout the evening staging about 190 students.

The first half was on the Shiva Kudumbam. The evening began with an invocation of Lord Ganesha by children who were only four years old. This was followed by Nottuswaram, again performed by the young, in praise of Goddess Meenakshi.

It was a delight to see these young kids conscientiously displaying the basics they have been taught in their beautiful colourful costumes.

The junior students presented a number of items confidently displaying a greater depth of their Bharatanatyam skills. These items were the Pushpanjali – to evoke the blessings of the

Almighty, Mishra Alarippu – set in 7 rhythmic cycles, Dheena Karunakarane – in praise of Lord Shiva and lastly “Maha Kali” – a vibrant keertanam in praise of Goddess Shakthi.

Guru Smt Padmalakshmi derives tremendous pleasure and satisfaction in teaching adults who either did not have an opportunity to learn Bharatanatyam or their learning was disrupted. She was immensely proud of all their performances. The items they presented were Swarajathi – an ode to lord Shiva, Mudras – the depiction of the 28 Asamyutha Hasthas (single hand gestures) and Thirrupugazh – a beautiful composition in praise of Lord Muruga.

The second part of the concert was the dance drama “Skanda Vaibhavam” – an exploration of the avatara and lilas of Lord Muruga, the second son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi. The dancers showcased the narrative nuances of Bharatanatyam to reveal the myriad facets

of Lord Muruga’s life and the stories of His six abodes.

Guru Smt Padmalakshmi Sriram opened the dance ballad by presenting a beautiful invocatory item foreshadowing the story of Lord Muruga. This was followed by an enactment of the story on the creation of Lord Muruga to free the devas from the cruelties of the 3 demons/asuras, Surapadman and his brothers Tarakasura and Simhamukha, symbolising the triumph of good over evil.

The childhood lilas of Lord Muruga, also known as Subramanya, were presented

next. The most notable is the explanation of the origin of the Palani Temple, one of the abodes of Lord Muruga.

Lord Muruga’s marriage first to Devayanai and subsequently the various guises He took to win over Valli, the daughter of a tribal chief was very creatively and skillfully presented by the dancers.

Smt Padmalakshmi Sriram must be highly commended for her courage, tireless effort and creativity in using a large number of students, even very young children, to stage this drama. It is a mammoth task to effectively utilise the

talents of the students and assign them the appropriate roles. The costumes, music and props used were very impressive. The dance drama was very educational, as it not only vividly presented the story of Lord Muruga, but also captured the moral and spiritual values, which is valuable for our youth.

It is noteworthy that Lalithakalalaya School of Bharatanatyam is associated with Griffin College of London and Smt Padmalakshmi Sriram is the Brisbane coordinator. The school’s pilot batch sat for their grade one and two exams last year

and all of them secured a distinction and merit.

They were awarded their certificates.

The program was meticulously planned to include and provide for the diversity of her students in age, skills and talent.

After this mega production of Skanda Vaibhavam, our school is gearing up for its next concert by our senior students titled: Raghava Madhava with our live ensemble/orchestra on 3rd of August 2024 at St. John’s Anglican College.

Authored by Lalithakalalaya School of Bharatanatyam

Guided Relaxation and Meditation Bootcamp In an increasingly fastpaced world inundated with constant stimuli and demands, the pursuit of inner peace and mental clarity has become more vital than ever.

Amidst this chaos of modern life, meditation stands as a beacon of tranquillity, offering a sanctuary for the mind and soul. Varnam Cultural Society believes that meditation is an effortless and effective form of practice with palpable benefits to avoid stress and chaos of our daily lives.

In a collaborative effort between Heartfulness Australia and Varnam Cultural Society, a transformative BootCamp was orchestrated, aimed at empowering the residents of Greater Springfield with the enriching practice of meditation. With a shared vision of promoting holistic well-being and fostering inner peace within the community, this initiative sought to introduce participants to the profound benefits of heartful meditation.

The Varnam team designed three enlightening sessions scheduled for Sunday, March 24th, commencing at 10:30 am

and concluding at 2:30 pm, thoughtfully designed and facilitated by experts from Heartfulness Organisation offering participants an immersive journey into the practice of meditation Once again, the esteemed presence of Charis Mullen, Minister for Multicultural Affairs, illuminated our event as she graciously lent her usual unwavering support.

The session kicked off with an engaging icebreaker led by the enthusiastic young volunteer, Janani Jaishankar.

With her vibrant energy and infectious enthusiasm, Janani guided attendees through an interactive activity aimed at decoding inspirational quotes by renowned figures.

Through this lively and thought-provoking exercise, participants were not only encouraged to unravel the wisdom embedded within these quotes but also to reflect on their personal significance.

The volunteers, John Joseph Smith, Venkata Murthy, and Shashidhar, seamlessly guided the attendees through each session, introducing them to the profound practice of Heartful Meditation

28 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024

and its myriad benefits.

They graciously invited participants to embark on a journey of self-discovery and inner peace through a guided meditation session lasting 20 minutes. As participants closed their eyes and surrendered to the present moment, they were guided through a journey of relaxation, mindfulness, and introspection, allowing them to experience the profound benefits of Heartful Meditation firsthand.

In this sanctuary of stillness, individuals found solace, clarity, and a renewed sense of vitality, laying the foundation for continued growth and self-awareness beyond the confines of the

workshop.

As the session drew to a close, participants were invited to share their experiences from their meditative journey. With hearts open and minds at peace, individuals offered reflections and insights gained during their time of introspection.

Each shared moment served as a testament to the profound impact of meditation on personal well-being and inner harmony.

Some expressed feelings of calmness and clarity, while others shared moments of profound insight and emotional release. As the echoes of shared reflections filled the room, it became

evident that the seeds of transformation sown during the workshop had taken root, promising to continue flourishing in the lives of all those who had gathered in pursuit of inner peace and self-discovery. With nearly 150 attendees, the workshop

concluded as a resounding success, marking a milestone in our collective journey towards well-being and selfcare.

By Rekha N Swamy Public Relations Officer Varnam Cultural Society QLD

Canterbury College’s ‘Boots ‘N’ All’ Platinum Partnership With Rochedale Rovers FC After the popular success of the Socceroos’ reaching the Round of 16 at the 2022 Men’s World Cup, and the Matildas achieving fourth place at the 2023 Women's World Cup, Canterbury College and the neighbouring Rochedale Rovers Football Club are riding the surge of community football participation and support with a Platinum Partnership.

Meetings in late 2023 found a compelling range of mutually practical, social and sporting benefits to both parties, that soon morphed into a 12-month agreement that is really forging ahead.

Rochedale Rovers FC President Mr Jon Mckain and their Director of Football Mr Scott MacNicol, recently spent some time on campus with College Principal Mr Dan Walker and Canterbury’s Football Coordinator Mr Luke Harmer, to discuss the partnership’s strength to date.

“It's a really good relationship from the Rovers point of view to join with Canterbury College, and we’re excited about what this can look like over the next 12 to 24 months,” Mr Jon Mckain said.

“First and foremost, the idea to have young boys and girls that play football at this school also connecting with our club, is really the rationale behind why Rochdale joined this partnership.”

“There's some amazing facilities here at the school that we're really excited to potentially utilise for Rovers Club training and matches.”

“And in return, we've got some great coaches and expertise within our club, that we believe we can help the school with, when developing

their young players and building their football program.”

President Jon Mckain was a highly successful 17-year professional club football player from 1999 – 2016, and represented Australia 16 times – including at the 2004 OFC Nations Cup, 2004 Athens Olympics, 2005 Confederations Cup and 2011 Asian Cup. He played football in Romania, Saudi Arabia and Malaysia; and for the Brisbane Strikers, Wellington Phoenix and Adelaide United back home, and for the Rochedale Rovers after his professional retirement until 2019.

Canterbury Principal Mr Dan Walker is especially pleased to have a local Logan club and Club President of such high calibre partnered with the school.

“Rochedale Rovers are one of the big brands in Brisbane and Queensland Football, and one of the longest serving clubs in their competitions, serving a large area of Brisbane’s southside,” he said.

“So there's a major advantage for Canterbury being able to align with their size and success, and to leverage that great club and their coaches and expertise, and the pedigree of the people involved in that club, to help improve the standard of our own boys and girls football.”

“It’s important for

Canterbury to have Rochedale as a marquee code driver, as it’s in a real growth phase now, and we've got some top people in our program led by Coordinator Luke Harmer.”

“He's been able to attract some high quality coaches, and what we're hoping for is that those growing player numbers translate into onfield success, and get our boys and girls feeling like this is a winning program, as well as a mass participation program.”

Canterbury Football Coordinator and Teacher Mr Luke Harmer was in full agreement.

“We're seeing the green shoots of this partnership and the growth of student interest in football already in 2024, with the success of our girls teams, who’ve really made their mark on the TAS competition this year in Term One,” he said.

“And now we're hoping in Term Two, when pre-season training kicks off for Term Three, when boys’ TAS football starts, that we just rise another standard again – a uniform lift right across our teams against the other schools, with Rochedale Rovers’ coaching support and player

development during weekday training and Saturday matchdays.”

Rochedale Rovers FC’s Director of Football Mr Scott MacNicol can only see upsides to the club and school enjoying a long-term relationship.

“As our Club President Jon said, we've got a good relationship with the school, with Dan Walker, Arnie Marraiya, Luke Harmer and Jackson Rossi,” he said.

“So we know a lot of the people involved at the school, and this really helps us with what we're trying to build with our own women's and girls’ football programs, as Canterbury has a good girls program here with their football.”

“We're hoping that continues to build, and we can help supply some coaches, and then we can help with some coach education, and we can help build the school and club programs together.”

“Canterbury parents and players will see what the Rochedale Rovers can provide, and this gives them the avenue to play football outside of the school with our club, and go on playing for us after graduating from school

as well.”

This exclusive Platinum Partnership incorporates ground signage, jersey branding, a Junior Football Academy Day, expert coach training and player development, plus shared playing fields, training equipment and facilities.

Mr Scott MacNicol added that Canterbury College provided an excellent change of training scenery and other practical ground-level benefits.

“We've already gotten to utilise the campus facilities here with the senior players, and the seniors really enjoyed coming here.”

“They came down and did a pre-season event here and it’s excellent what the school offers for us onsite with the two pools, the full gym, and the amount of playing fields that are here as well.”

“It’s very handy having training and playing fields available here timing-wise, when we have to do field renovations at our own Rochedale grounds.”

The only dampener so far has been the wet weather washing out the full Junior Football Academy Day that Canterbury and the Rochedale Rovers Club had jointly planned for the preseason – with football skills,

fitness drills, a gym workout, pool recovery session and even nutritionists, but other opportunities will soon arise.

But overall, this partnership’s timing is perfect for the Logan region according to Rochedale Rovers FC President Mr Jon Mckain.

“Football is really growing here in general, and with grassroots numbers, especially off the back of the highly successful and lucrative FIFA Women's World Cup for Football Australia.”

“And for our club for example, we've got this massive influx of players from that six, seven, eight, nine, ten age group that we're having to source extra playing and training fields, and we’re having to put in new teams.”

“So I think this partnership can certainly help us here around some of the challenges we're having finding green space, while also helping the College support those players who want to play outside of school football.”

So what does the future look like with this partnership for Canterbury Principal Mr Dan Walker?

“We see a future of big numbers of our boys and girls as football players – with Canterbury and with Rochedale, both as school students and as school graduates playing club football.”

“Rochedale with the coaches, the expertise, the data, the professionalism and the history for us to be more successful on the pitch, and Canterbury with the young players, the raw talent, the extra playing space and the facilities for both parties to share and grow.”

Gaura Travel Launches Weekly Instalments Payment Option for India Air Fare To make it easy to fly home more often, Gaura Travel has introduced a convenient payment plan option for flight fares to India! Customers can now book their flight tickets to India with just a 5% deposit and pay off the remaining amount through small weekly instalments.

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variety of airlines to choose from, and shorter transit times.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024 — 29

Ram Navami in Ayodhya 2024 Ram Navami in Ayodhya 2024: Ram Navami, a sacred Hindu festival observed across the globe, commemorates the birth of Lord Shri Ram, the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu.

This celebration symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and the prevalence of righteousness over injustice, urging individuals to embrace righteousness in their lives. Lord Ram, hailed as Maryada Purushottam, epitomizes the essence of an exemplary human, making Ram Navami an emblem of virtue, righteousness, and spiritual enlightenment.

In 2024, Ram Navami was on Wednesday, April 17th, coinciding with the ninth day (Navami Tithi) of the Chaitra month in the Hindu lunisolar calendar during the Shukla Paksha phase.

This year's festivities bear exceptional significance as it marks the first Ram Navami following the inauguration of Ayodhya's Ram Mandir on January 23, 2024.

In honour of this occasion, the Uttar Pradesh

government had orchestrated elaborate arrangements for the celebrations in Ayodhya, the revered birthplace of Lord Ram. In Brisbane various religious groups celebrated the Ram Naumi Parv.

Sanatan Baal Ramayan in Madali Brisbane saw the enchanting presence

of Pundit Rajnesh Pandey ji, drawing a sizable crowd eager to partake in the discourse and bhajans.

Ipswich Ramayan Mandali also orchestrated an engaging event, offering informative sessions and enthralling bhajans that left the attendees spellbound.

The Shree Sanatan

Dharam Hindu Association of Queensland, located at the Sanatan Centre on Wembley Road in Berrinba, witnessed a daily attendance averaging 500 devotees. Pundit Hirdesh Maharaj from Auckland, New Zealand, graced the occasion with his pravachan and soulful bhajans, delighting everyone present.

At the Hindu Society of Queensland Gayatri Mandir, Pundit Sanat Pandey led a captivating program,

drawing in a large audience eager to immerse themselves in the discourse and devotional songs.

Ipswich Ramayan mandali’s 2024 Ramnaumi the Baalvikash group where children of younger age groups sing kirtan, do stage performances and even do Ramayan recital.

The Ipswich Ramayan

Ipswich Ramayan mandali’s 2024 Ramnaumi was celebrated at Master Bimal and Shakuntala Prasad’s place at Goodna.

The Mandali’s inception dates back to about 35 years. It has continued to uphold and celebrate Hindu religious functions and

celebrations with inputs of many predominantly immigrants of Fiji Indian community. It had its own challenges like any religious organisation such as during the peak of COVID years.

Some of the hallmarks of the organisation has been the training of the youngsters,

30 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024

Mandali acknowledges the contributions of all those individuals who have contributed through their participation, support and other means.

Hon Pt Harish Sharma's Book Launch

Hanuman Jayanthi celebrations at Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir

Hon Pt Harish Sharma launch of a memoir was a tribute to a life richly-lived, characterized by strong family ties and values; marked by dedicated service to Fiji, the legal profession, the community, religious institutions, and the education sector.

Politics Timeline Mr. Sharma went into national politics, when he was nominated by Opposition Leader Hon Siddiq Koya to Fiji’s first Senate, following Fiji's Independence, in 1970.

Mr. Sharma had an illustrious political career, having been elected, as a Member of Parliament, to the House of Representatives 7 times - 1972, twice in 1977, 1982, 1987, 1992, and 1994.

Through his lifetime of dedicated national service, Hon. Sharma occupied esteemed positions including Senator, Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Leader of the Opposition, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Housing, Urban Development and Information. He epitomizes wisdom and authority. Hon. Sharma's distinctive political style endears him as a kind and compassionate leader, who steadfastly upheld national interest, equality,

dignity, justice and political morality.

Community Leadership During the 1990s, he assumed the presidency of the Shri Sanatan Dharam Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji, providing 10 years of steadfast leadership until his retirement in 2003.

Upon retiring, he was bestowed Life Membership and honored with the

prestigious "Sanatan Ratna" awards, the highest recognition by the SSDPS in Fiji.

Furthermore, his religious contributions in Sydney were acknowledged with a second "Sanatan Ratna" award by the Sanatan Dharm Sabha of NSW. In 1993, Mr. Harish Sharma was honored with the Order of Fiji (OF) award for his dedication and contribution to Fiji.

Hanuman Jayanthi celebrations at Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir by Param Aadarniye PT Saras Maharaj.

HINDU SOCIETY OF QLD INVITES ALL DEVOTEES

3 Day Shree Bhagwat Geeta

Atma Gyan Katha

Thursday 16 May , Friday 17 May, Saturday 19 May 2024

Daily Pravachan by Pujniye Jai Narain Shastriji Balmoral Mandir Auckland New Zealand Venue Gayatri Mandir 178 Lyndhurst Road Boondall

Enquiries

President: Anit Ram 0452470467 Vice-President/PRO Neelima 0405409156 Secretary Nirmala Shandil 0466436964 Treasurer Rajneel Raj 0420314465 Call: (07) 3192 5188

Program

Starts: 6.30pm Pooja Bhajans/ Kirtans Pravachan Aarti at 8.15 pm Maha Prashaad served daily www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024 — 31

Shri Ram Naumi – Gayatri Mandir, Boondall

By Dharmesh Prasad “Sarveshu Ramante itihi Ramah” Jo sab me raman karta hai wo hai Ram, ‘’that which revels in every one of us, the pure self, light of consciousness, the Atman is Ram. Hindu society of Qld celebrated Shri Ram Naumi Utsav with great zeal and passion, decked with arches, lights and decorations, created an atmosphere of celebration, positivity and anticipation of Ram Janam.

Our life is an Utsav/ celebration as such we should celebrate our existence with a balance of spirituality and material prosperity.

The Committee received many messages of support and positive feedback from the devotees.

Characterisation of the Ramayana is symbolic, Lord Rama symbolises self-luminous and pure consciousness, there are two different manifestations’, Nirgund and Sargund. When we say Sargund, Lord Ram has manifested/born as a human being to perform the divine play and teach humanity the art of living.

Lord Ram lived the Vedas to provide a lesson in life, he had 108 qualities in him that made Ram “Mahapursuh”.

Nirgund is the Awareness and Consciousness as Atman – atma rupi bhagwan resides in each of us, it is still present

today even though the Sargund Ram has dissolved in the nature-prakriti.

Sita represents the ego, the Jeeva, the mind. As long as Sita’s attention is on Ram, she was ever blissful.

Similarly, we are happy as long as we are attuned to the inner-self, thus this is the perfect union of Ram and Sita.

Lakshman personifies tapas-austerity and one pointedness. When desire overtakes us, tapas also leave. But even if we are desiring and covetous, still we may not come to harm if we remain within the confines of discipline and self-control – this is known as Lakashman-Rekha.As soon as we step out of it, we are captured and consumed

by the ten headed monster in the form of Ravan.Ten head symbolises five sensory organs (gyan indriya) and five organs of action (karam indriya) This represents the extrovert nature, fulfilment of sensual desires and material affluence which is devoid of spirituality.

Hanumanji Maharaj represents Sharadha bhakti, spiritual inner strength, devotion and faith which proves to us that lord is always with us. Similarly other characters symbolise three modes of nature-gunas, vibihshan – Sattva, Ravan – Rajas and Kumbhkaran – Tamas, these qualities are still present in us today and on a daily basis we need to work on ourselves to be a better version of who we are.

We must not see Ramayana as a story of Lord Ram, Lakshman, Sita, Hanumanji Maharaj but understand that these events are happening to us in our daily lives, as we become astray in life, we suffer the duality of life, we are unable to transcend pain and pleasure hence dukkha – suffering.

Pujinye Pundit Sanat Pandey expounded the Ramayana over nine days, a strong turnout was present daily. His message to devotees was, Lord Ram is the epitome of kindness, compassion, and love. Lord Ram’s wisdom and patience made it possible for him to follow his inner good without worrying about the loss of luxuries and kingship. Pujinye Punditji

also explained the valuable life lessons which occurred thousands of years ago yet so relevant today. It is not your position but your service that matters the most, truth always prevails, plant seeds of faith and unity can overcome any difficulty in life. Be deeply committed to your duty (dharma), choose the path of righteousness, remain humble no matter how powerful you become, treat everyone equally and forgiveness is greater than revenge.

HSQ Gayatri Mandir will be organising Bhagwad Gita Atma Gyan Katha – The Song of God from 16 May to 18 May. This spiritual discourse will be delivered by learned Shri Jai Narain Shastriji from Auckland, NZ. Shastriji was born in Kurukshetra, he is a scholar in Sanskrit and has been offering spiritual discourse in Bhagwat Puran, Shri Ram Charitra Manas Katha and Shrimad Bhagwad Gita for last 50 years.

Everyone is invited to participate and immerse in the divine shlokas that reveal the purpose and goal of human existence and provide techniques for implementing spiritual guidelines in our daily lives.

Hindu Society of Queensland has completed CRM/ database project.

Many devotees have moved residences and may have new contact

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

Upcoming Events Somwar Shiva Pooja every Monday: 6.30pm to 8.30pm Ramayan Recital every Tuesday: 7.00pm to 8.30pm 16 May to 18 May Bhagwad Gita – by Shri Jai Narain Shastri, Auckland Sundarkand and Trayodashi is held every month at the mandir, for details and sponsorship please kindly visit our website and Facebook page.

Regular updates will be sent to all devotees via Facebook and SMS. Stay Connected with Hindu Society of Queensland Website www. hindusocietyqld.org.au Facebook: Hindu Society of Qld and email us on gayatrimandirqld@gmail. com Phone: (07) 38653164 Address: 178 Lyndhurst Rd, Boondall QLD

Visit to Ram Janma Bhoomi, Ayodhya No other better day to share our experiences at Ram Janma Bhoomi, Ayodhya when Shree Ram ji first Surya Kiran darshan happened this morning.

Just wanted to share our Experience and Spiritual journey of Visiting Ayodhya temple on the 10th day after Pran Pratisthan on the 31st January 2024.

It literally gave us goose

bumps when we were in the very powerful spiritually charged place and could feel the Presence of Shree Ram Lalla.

It's a Return of Ram Rajya and the whole of India was charged with the sentiment of unified Hinduism. The streets were decorated with Maroon marigold flowers and everywhere there was a Chant of Jai Shree Ram and

32 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024

the whole atmosphere was charged with positivity.

May be Nitin Bhogale and Arati Bhogale we were the first couple to visit Ayodhya in that magical period from Australia.

We were blessed to have this visit possible with Anuradha Tai Paudwal as she was invited to participate in the 45 days long Gayan Seva organised by the Ram Mandir Trust.

Crowning glory was when we met the Actual lineage of Shree Ram ji the Rajkumar Mr Yetinder Mishraji and his Sister Rajkanya of Ayodhya.

We are so spiritually charged by the experience

that we have the urge to go and visit again and experience the moment again very soon.

Authored by: Nitin Bhogale and Arati Bhogale

Sai Baba Aarti Program every Thursday @ 7.30pm Brisbane northside

Virginia State School 1678 Sandgate Rd Virginia Dinner/prasad provided For any pooja needs, bhajans, katha, or Manka Ramayan please contact Guruji SMS 0405 392793 facebook.com/SaiBabaBrisbane www.saisaileshwara.com.au/events

Call: (07) 3192 5188

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024 — 33

A Commemoration of Mothers by Nerin Naidu (Author of Birth, Death and Moments Between) www.nerinnaidu.com

I woke up on a Monday morning under a month ago to over twenty missed calls and text messages from my sisters tell me to call either one of them urgently. We all live in different continents.

“Someone must have died!” I thought to myself, sweating and shivering in fear.

“Mummy’s been taken to hospital. She’s having difficulty breathing,” said my sister.

“We know nothing else. We are trying to get flights out.”

After a few painful hours of waiting with abated breath, I heard my mother’s voice.

A soothing calm enveloped me.

I spoke to her when she was first admitted before any of the tests were done to confirm or refute the suspected disease.

Softly, almost inaudibly she said, “I’m in hospital.

They just drained a litre of fluid from my lungs. They think its cancer.”

Silence…

We both listened to each other’s breathing.

Hers, laboured and deliberate, mine gasping, panicking.

“It may be cancer,” she said again matter-of-factly.

She added after a long pause, “ They also found a mass in the left breast and the collapsed lung.”

“No way, Mummy!” I

replied. “It could not possibly be cancer. We have never had a history of cancer in our family,” I reassured her.

“Let’s just wait and see,” she said after considering my words.

I confidently told her, that she had a long way to go before death visited. I was so completely and utterly wrong because death paid my Mother an unexpected visited two short weeks later.

“I’m taking the next flight out,” I added.

“No,” she said. “Let’s wait for the tests.”

I applied for my Canadian visa the moment she ended the call and waited for her to tell me to go to her. She never did.

The dreaded vias took a full 72 hours after numerous calls to the consulate explaining

the urgency.

“I just got the visa Mummy,” I said to her.

“Don’t come yet” she said.

“Wait until after the Easter rush. I will need your help when the others have left,” she assured me.

A few days before I was due to leave, my mother called to say Good Bye. “I can’t wait for you. I see you on Facetime all the time. I’m dying tomorrow morning,” she said.

My mother was a very practical, stoic woman. She was ready to die. I was not ready for her to die. Are we ever really ready for our parent’s death?

“Please mummy wait for me!” I begged.

“No, I’m ready now. I just want to say Good Bye…” I lost my mother to cancer

less than a month ago. She was diagnosed two weeks prior to her death with stage 4 breast cancer which had metastasised to her lungs.

She was one of the lucky ones though. She did not suffer but dictated the time and place of her demise. She passed away peacefully, a smile on her lips, with loved ones at her side and those of us that could not be with her in person held on to her for as long as we could, watching the passing online, offering our final prayers from afar.

Perhaps the most and least gratifying role is that of motherhood.

Mothers are seldom seen by innocent minds as simply fallible human beings with dreams, thoughts and goals of our own. We are often taken for granted, seen as superwomen, unbreakable and the figure that will always be there even as we pass the years from the birth of our precious off-springs, to their adulthood themselves, while growing older, maybe wiser and often frailer ourselves.

As Mothers, we go about our daily lives wearing a number of hats so that we can be everyone we need to be for our children. We are the carers, cooks, cleaners, teachers, nurses, counsellors, chauffers, earners and sometimes punching bags for our children, because we

are mothers and it is both instinctive and expected of us.

Mothers constantly and lovingly give, asking for little in return, we nurture even when we ourselves require nurturing. We become almost invincible in the eyes of our innocent children, until they start, sometimes lovingly, sometimes not-so-much, questioning our worth, our values, our very role in their lives.

I see from the eyes of mother and daughter. I am both blessed with and guilty of being both.

I never expected the day to come where I would be unable to chat to my mother, tell her of all the goings on in my all too busy life, complain about trivialities that mean nothing, hearing her soothing words of calm reassurance, constantly asking her for ago old recipes and home remedies from her mother passed on from her grandmother.

My mother listened, advised, smiled, laughed, cried, scolded and loved me unconditionally. And I, the child, took every moment for granted.

Reassuring her that I would see her in September. September would never come though, at least not for my mother.

Her passing although devastating, has gifted me

with the in-depth insight of a mother, a person nobody can replace. Only when one is gone can we see the complete picture of who they really were, the good, the not so good and all the in-betweens that make us human, for we are fallible beings born to learn life-long lessons.

I look within as a mother myself and try to remember all the incidental lessons, advise, stories and memories passed down from my mother and her mother before her.

I smile when my daughter shares her many blissful moments, success and joy with me. I cry when I know her heart is sore. I listen offering advice only if she askes for it. I scold her then regret my harshness. I hold her close at every chance I get, telling her how much I love her and at the end of it all I close my eyes and see my mother in me as I hope that one day when my daughter looks at her own off-spring, she will see a bit of us all- her mother, grandmother and great grandmother shining through her.

Take the time to see your mother, the real her, love her as she is and let her know how grateful you are for her.

Share the moments together while you can because the twilight years come all too soon, and we are forced to say our final Good Byes.

Impressions: Music and Meditation by Sahaja Yoga Meditation Australia Adj Prof. Sudipto Roy

There has been a strong relationship between spiritual harmony and music from very early times. Tagore in many of his work insisted on the essential kinship of man with nature. He writes…

“The grand orchestra of the universe has filled my heart In many a quiet moment in my imagination.” …

Rabindranath Tagore On Saturday, 6th April 2024, Sahaja Yoga Australia hosted a program themed “Music and Meditation” in Brisbane at the SunPAC. This program was organised as part of the Australia-wide commemoration events celebrating the 101 birthday of Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi.

Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi was a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, recipient of the United Nations Peace Medal and was honoured twice by the United States Congress.

She was internationally recognised for her contribution to humanity through a lifetime of work for peace and the wellbeing of humankind. Since 1970, she had travelled across the world tirelessly, spreading this message of love and peace.

Now millions around the

world are enjoying meditation using a very simple technique known as Sahaja yoga that was brought to humanity

by Her Holiness Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi in 1970. This technique promotes mental, emotional, physical and spiritual wellbeing.

She had received numerous awards and citations from the governments of many countries in recognition of her selfless efforts for social improvement.

The Music and Meditation program commenced at 6:30pm with a warm welcome from Meghamala Roy Basu. Megha respectfully acknowledged the Turrbal, Ugarapul/Yugarapul and

34 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024

Jagera people, the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the land, including Elders past and present, and the ongoing efforts to protect and promote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures for a lasting legacy.

The first performance of the evening was by Sahaj Sangeet.

Sahaj Sangeet includes singers and musicians from diverse background who are connected through their spiritual practices and passion for music. Sahaj Sangeet presented two Hindustani Devotional Music pieces known as Bhajans in Hindi, and a musical composition accompanied

by traditional and contemporary instruments, including Sitar, Harmonium, Santoor, Flute and Tabla.

These semi classical songs based on Indian ragas coupled with simple Sahaja yoga meditation techniques helped the audience to connect with the inner spirit and experience the joy of meditation.

After a short break, Megha briefly spoke about the benefits of Sahaja yoga, before introducing Rhitom Sarkar, the feature artist of the evening, for his maiden performance in Brisbane.

Born to musician parents in Kolkata, child prodigy Rhitom Sarkar started playing

Indian classical music but soon veered towards playing the guitar due to its musical appeal (akin to vocal) to glide. His innovative mind searched for ways and means to incorporate the finer nuances of Indian music into his guitar practice. Rhitom’s preferred instrument is the Indian slide guitar or ‘gandharvi’ – a modified archtop acoustic with sympathetic and plucked drone strings, specially designed for playing ragas. Ragas are the melodic patterns and modes in traditional Indian music compositions.

Rhitom started with Raag Malkaush in Jhaptaal

followed by a composition on Teen taal. He concluded the evening presentation with a dhun in Mishra Kirwani. The mesmerising performance ended with a standing ovation from the audience. Megha concluded the program with a brief note of thanks.

This free “Music and Meditation” program raised public awareness about simple methods to reduce stress, improve mental health and wellbeing, and promoted the benefits of a balanced living. Members of the wider community highly appreciated the significance and the overall quality of the program, including the role of Sahaja Yoga Meditation Australia and hosts in promoting inclusiveness, respect and belonging while making a positive contribution to the social, cultural and economic life of Queensland, evident from the following testimonials: “If you ever have opportunity to see Rhitom again, it's definitely worth going!”

“Sensational!

The music and vibrations were exceptional!”

“Outstanding performance!”

Call: (07) 3192 5188

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024 — 35

GOPIO Queensland Hosts Spectacular Annual Fundraising Gala Dinner 2024 at The Westin Brisbane GOPIO Queensland Inc, the Queensland chapter of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin, illuminated the night with an unforgettable Annual Fundraising Gala Dinner at The Westin Brisbane on April 19, 2024, in support of the Iconic India Day Fair. The event was a resounding success, owing to the generous support of sponsors, the presence of esteemed dignitaries, and the captivating performances that enthralled the audience.

The Gala Dinner was made possible by the generous contributions of sponsors committed to community empowerment.

Austec Services led as the main sponsor, demonstrating unwavering support for community initiatives. Gold Sponsor Cr Charles Strunk, along with Silver sponsors Sixty Four Property, Nationwide Migration and Education, represented by Senator Paul Scarr, added to the event's prestige. Cornerstone Law Office and Migration Doctors also contributed as Bronze sponsors, further elevating the evening's success.

GOPIO QUEENSLAND INC.

Thank you TO

OUR SPONSORS PLATINUM SPONSOR

Distinguished dignitaries graced the occasion, enriching the evening with their presence. Senator Paul Scarr, alongside Councillor Vicky Howard, the Lord Mayor, and Councillor Charles Strunk, added to the event's grandeur. Lady Mayoress Nina Schrinner, as Patron of GOPIO QLD's Women's Council, brought an aura of grace and elegance.

Notable speakers included OAM Umesh Chandra ji, Vice President Usha Chandra, and President Arpit Singh.

The Gala Dinner was flawlessly executed by the dedicated hotel staff at The Westin Brisbane, ensuring every detail was meticulously attended to.

36 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024

Pele Ramdhani commenced the event and conducted the auction, while emcees Kanish and Khushboo kept the audience engaged throughout the evening.

Pragati's enchanting dance performance, followed by a captivating display by the Tapori squad, added cultural richness to the event.

Expressions of gratitude were extended to the tireless members of the GOPIO Queensland team, whose dedication was instrumental in orchestrating the evening's success. President Arpit Singh, Umesh Chandra OAM, Usha Chandra, Rohani Prasad, Irene Bayldon, Rishi Bhardwaj, Sidharth Malhotra, Kanish Chabra,

GOLD SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSORS

BRONZE SPONSORS B R I S B A N E

&

G O L D

C O A S T

Education & Migration Consultants

Neelu Balgovind, Yousouf Ali Khan, and Rakesh Sharma were commended for their

exemplary efforts.

As the night unfolded, attendees were treated to

mesmerizing performances

by Sonalisa and Amar ji, whose melodious voices filled the air with magic.

Pragati's dance performance, presented by Kalaa Dance, enthralled the audience, leaving everyone spellbound.

The Gala Dinner was not merely an event but a celebration of community spirit and unity.

New members joined the ranks amidst an atmosphere brimming with energy and positivity, indulging in delectable Indian cuisine.

As the night concluded, anticipation filled the air for the upcoming India Day Fair at Roma Street Parkland on August 17, 2024. This event promises another exciting opportunity for the community to celebrate the richness of Indian culture. GOPIO Queensland extends heartfelt thanks to all dignitaries, sponsors, performers, and attendees for their invaluable contributions. Together, we continue to build bridges, foster inclusivity, and create moments of joy and celebration within our community.

Kavita ji

Call: (07) 3192 5188

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024 — 37

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

By Shrii Shrii Anandamurti Contd. from previous month Tadádraśtú svarúpe’vasthánam.

One has to advance by making the maximum effort to keep the mind scrupulously away from vices. Never let your mind’s purity be polluted in any way. After practising this for some time, you will observe that the same mind that sustained your vile tendencies has become your greatest friend. Your mind will serve all your purposes so that you should let it have constant inspiration from your soul. Enlighten your mind with the effulgence of the soul.

The absolute truth in you will automatically reveal itself.

Rtambhará tatra prajiṋá –Pátaiṋjala Those who adopt the reverse course are truly ignorant, in that as they dedicate themselves to crude objects, they gradually transform their minds into crudeness. By gradual transformation their mindstuff reaches a stage where they cannot be called human beings. Who can say that the fire-burnt cane has been transformed into the plantain tree, and the

decomposed beef has been transformed into onion through natural changes, and that the rice-water has produced tańd́uleraka leaves?

Likewise, no one will be able to recognize you as a human being in your degenerated condition.

Therefore, do not absorb yourself in crude thoughts or allow yourself to be carried away by impulses and tendencies. The extroverted tendency and the dedication to these crude objects are sure impediments to the realization of self.

Uttamo Brahmasadbhávo madhyamá dhyánadhárańá Japastutisyádadhamá múrtipújádhamádhama –Tantra The mind is extroverted by idol worship and is attracted towards finite objects. If the mental force is directed towards finite and crude objects, then the person is ultimately converted into crudeness. As you think so you become.

In the name of the universal all-pervading entity, idol worship is not permissible.

An idol is a finite object. Is it not self-contradictory to call Brahma the all-pervasive

entity and then to advocate idol worship? If idol is Brahma, the seat where it is installed is certainly outside Him! It is simply a paradox. In the Rgveda it is said: Sahasrashiirśá Puruśah sahasrákśah sahasrapát; Sa bhúmiḿ vishvato vrtvá’t yatiśth́ addasháuṋgulam.

–Rgveda Puruśasúktam The poet Shrii Dvijendra Lal Roy echoed the same thoughts in his verses – Pratimá diye ki pújiba tomáre E vishva nikhila tomári pratimá.

Mandir tomár ki gaŕiba má go Mandir yáhár ananta niilimá; Pratimá tomár graha, tárá, ravi, Ságar, nirjhar, bhúdhara, atá vi.

Nikuiṋja-bhavan, vasantapavan, Tarulatá, phal-phul madhurimá.

Satiir pavitra prańay madhumá, Shishur hásití jananiir cumá, Sádhur bhakati pratibhá shakati, Tomári mádhurii tomári mahimá.

Jei dike cái e nikhil bhúmi, Sab dike mágo, virájicha tumi, Ki griiśme, ki shiite, divase nishiithe, Vikashita tava vibhava garimá.

–Shrii Dvijendra Lal Roy The Vedic sages also said: Tadevágni stadá ditya stadváyustaducandramá; Tadeva shukraḿ Tadbrahma tadápastad prajápatih.

Tvaḿ strii tvaḿ pumánasi tvam kumára uta vá kumárii; Tvam jiirńadand́ena vaiṋcayasi tvam játobhavasi vishvato-mukhah.

Yáke rúp ná-jáy bákháńi.

In the mundane life, finite objects are indispensable.

The preservation of existence is not possible by pursuing the path of “shreya” or ultimate gain all the time.

Nevertheless, shreya alone is necessary for one’s supreme spiritual progress and only shreya and not preya, or the immediate and superficial gain, should be pursued. It is said in the Veda: Anyacchreyo’nyadutaeva preyaste ubhe nánárthe puruśaḿ siniitah Tayoh shreya ádadaenasya sádhu bhavatihiiyate arthád

ya u preyo vrńiite Shreyasca preyasca manuśyametastao sampariitya vibinakti dhiirah Shreyo hi dhiiro’bhipreyaso vrniite preyo mando yogakśemád vrńiite.

–Kath́ opaniśad If the spiritual aspirant is advised to follow only shreya, then how will he or she maintain his or her existence during the period of spiritual practice? He or she will have to deal with preya in such a manner that it does not become a cause of bondage or extroversion of tendencies but will instead lead to the introversion of tendencies and thereby to mukti or liberation.

This technique is known as “madhuvidyá.”

Madhuvidyá teaches you that you can endeavour to attain liberation even while leading a worldly life, provided of course, that before dealing with any object of gratification, you take it with cosmic feeling. While feeding your child you ought to contemplate that you are not feeding your child but giving proper care to the manifestation of Brahma in the shape of a child. When you plough your land, you

ought to contemplate that you are giving proper care to the manifestation of Brahma in the shape of land. If you properly follow madhuvidyá you can keep yourself aloof from the shackles of actions even though you perform actions. This madhuvidyá will pervade your exterior and interior with the ecstasy of Brahmánanda and will permanently alleviate all your afflictions. Then the ferocious jaws of Avidyá cannot come and devour you. The glory of one and only one benign entity will shine forth to you from one and all objects.

Idaḿ máńusaḿ sarveśáḿbhútánáḿ madhvasya máńuśasya sarváni bhútáni madhuh Ayamátmá sarvesáḿ bhútánáḿ madhvasya átmanah sarváni bhútáni madhuh.

1955 DMC, Monghyr Published in: Ananda Marga Ideology and Way of Life in a Nutshell Part 1 [a compilation] Ananda Marga Karma Sannyása in a Nutshell [a compilation] Bábá's Grace [a compilation] Subháśita Saḿgraha Part 1

Guru Pournami – Receiving the Guru’s Grace Sadhguru, Isha Foundation This is the time of the year when Shiva, the Adiyogi’s attention first fell upon the Saptarishis – the now, celebrated seven disciples. In the yogic tradition, Shiva is not worshipped as a God, but is considered the Adiyogi – the First Yogi, and as the Adiguru, the First Guru from whom the yogic sciences originated. So, we are in the month when an ascetic and yogi who was completely uninvolved with what was around him, was beginning to get involved. For twentyeight days, from one full moon day to the next – the one which is referred to as Guru Pournami – Shiva could not take his attention off the Saptarishis, who had done some simple preparatory steps for eighty-four long years without even a moment of attention from him. Now, his attention upon his first seven disciples was undivided.

So this month is seen as a month where even a completely heartless ascetic could not ignore, he became compassionate and was compelled to become a teacher or a Guru. This month is seen as the best time to receive

the Grace of the Guru and make yourself receptive to the process. This is a good time to earn that attention from the Grace.

“What should I do?” is always the question. If you don’t do anything of your own, so that you are less of yourself, that is the best way to be receptive.

Sadhana is always structured like this, so that it absorbs you into activity in such a way that in the daily process of living, you forget who you are, what you are and what your life is about. You are just absorbed into what is happening. That is the best way to receive Grace.

There is a beautiful expression in the Zen system of allowing human consciousness to grow.

A disciple went to a Zen master and asked, “What should I do for my spiritual growth?” “Sweep the floor, chop the wood, cook the food, that’s all.” “For that, why should I come here?

I can do it at home.” But there, sweeping is about your own floor. You will not sweep the next house’s floor if it is dirty. You will chop wood for your own use, you will cook food just for yourself and whom you consider as yours. You

38 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024

are using every activity to enhance who you are, not to dissolve who you are.

This is all the difference between making our karma either into a bondage or into a process of liberation. Either you are acquiring karma or your karma is becoming

yoga.

So, this month is the month of Grace. Grace is like manure for growth, that a human being can catapult himself to another dimension of existence, capability and possibility. So making use of Grace – what should we

do? Nothing to do. The less you do within yourself and the more you do outside of yourself, the more available you become to Grace.

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

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

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

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

Guru Poornima 2024

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

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

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

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024 — 39

Delhi-NCR school bomb threats: MHA says nothing found, 'appear to be hoax' Delhi bomb threat news: No need to panic over bomb threat targeting schools in NCR, appears to be a hoax call, said Union home ministry.

Delhi schools bomb threat news: The ministry of home affairs on Wednesday assured that there's no need to panic as the bomb threat targeting schools in the NCR appears to be a hoax call, with police and security agencies taking necessary measures.

“There is no need to panic. It appears to be a hoax call. Delhi Police

and security agencies are taking necessary steps as per protocol,” MHA said in a statement.

Delhi schools bomb threat news: What we know so far?

1. Multiple schools in Delhi-NCR received bomb threat emails on Wednesday morning.

2. Bomb detection units, disposal teams, and Delhi Fire Service personnel conducted search operations at affected schools.

3.

Schools targeted include Mother Mary's

Fact Check: Are AstraZeneca's Covishield-vaccinated Indians susceptible to developing TTS?

AstraZeneca accepted in a legal submission that their Covid vaccine Covishield can cause Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome.

Read more: www.hindustantimes.com

Delhi high court slams law student for filing PIL on jailed politicians: ‘Highly adventurous’

The Delhi high court dismissed a plea to allow arrested political leaders to campaign through virtual mode for the Lok Sabha elections.

The Delhi high court on Wednesday dismissed a plea seeking a direction to the Election Commission of India (ECI) to develop a mechanism to ensure that arrested political leaders are allowed to campaign through virtual mode for the Lok Sabha elections 2024.

The high court called the plea “highly adventurous”.

A division bench

comprising of acting chief justice Manmohan and justice Manmeet PS Arora said it is a highly adventurous plea, contrary to fundamental principles of law, Live Law reported.

The bench pulled up the petitioner, who is a law student, for filing the PIL and called it contrary to the fundamental principles of law as it was asking the court to legislate and make laws, it reported.

The petition was filed by Amarjeet Gupta, a final-year law student, and was moved through advocate Md. Imran

in Mayur Vihar, Amity in Saket and Pushp Vihar, DPS campuses, and Sanskriti.

4. Initial investigations show a similar pattern of threatening emails sent

to various locations since yesterday, indicating a coordinated effort.

5. Schools have closed as a precaution, sending students home immediately.

6. Special commissioner of police RP Upadhyay termed the bomb threat emails as a "terror threat" and stated that the counterintelligence unit is investigating the matter.

7. Delhi fire services chief Atul Garg reported receiving distress calls from about 60 schools regarding bomb threats.

8. Union home ministry

assured there is no need to panic, as it appears to be a hoax call, and security agencies are following protocol.

9. The Delhi lieutenant governor directed the police commissioner to provide a comprehensive report and ensure thorough searches to identify perpetrators and prevent security lapses.

10.

Delhi education minister Atishi said that students have been safely evacuated, and urged parents not to panic as authorities coordinate with the police.

Mallikarjun Kharge to PM Modi: ‘Do only Muslims have more children? I have 5 because…’

PM Narendra Modi had sparked controversy as he alleged Congress manifesto of favouring muslims and distribute property based on number of children a family has.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Tuesday criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for blaming “Muslims for having more children”, saying that poverty leads to larger families. Mallikarjun Kharge said he even has five children.

“We are heading for a majority; that is why he (Modi) now talks about 'Mangalsutra' and Muslims.

He says we will steal your wealth and give it to those who have more children.

Poor people always have more children,” Congress chief Kharge said, PTI reported.

PM Modi alleged Congress manifesto favours Muslims Last month, PM Narendra

Modi sparked controversy with his comments on Muslims as he alleged that the Congress manifesto aims to distribute property based on the number of children a family has. Modi alleged that the Congress had previously said Muslims should receive priority in accessing the country's assets.

"The Congress manifesto says they will calculate the gold with mothers and sisters, get information about it and then distribute that property. They will distribute

it to whom - Manmohan Singh's government had said that Muslims have the first right on the country's assets," Modi said during a Lok Sabha elections rally in Rajasthan's Banswara.

"Earlier, when their (Congress) government was in power, they had said that Muslims have the first right to the country's assets. This means to whom will this property be distributed? It will be distributed among those who have more children. "It will distributed

Ahmad.

A direction was also sought from the Centre to provide information about the arrest of a political leader or a candidate immediately to the Election Commission of India.

When the Delhi high court bench said it would impose costs on the petitioner, his counsel requested that the same may not be done as the petitioner is a student of law, Live Law reported.

The court then asked the lawyer to make the law student understand the concept of separation of powers and that there are limits to judicial powers.

“It is not a vacuum. You

are asking us to act contrary to law. The law says how the accused in custody is to be treated. There is no vacuum here,” the bench stated.

Further, a request was also made to ensure that a mechanism is in place so that the enforcement agencies do not require permission from the Election Commission of India for arrest. Additionally, it was requested that the arrest is so urgent for national security such as the offences committed under the UAPA, then at least information about such arrest must be given to the Election Commission of India immediately after arrest, the plea stated.

The plea also sought direction to ECI and Centre Government to comply with the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) Office Memorandum (OM) dated December 1, 2011, which was reiterated OM dated March 15, 2021, issued by DoPT by all government officials including the Respondents with regard to acknowledgement & response/reply to letters/ communications received from a member of the public.

Recently, the Delhi HC dismissed several PILs related to Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal's arrest by the Directorate of Enforcement (ED). The court

to the infiltrators. Should your hard-earned money go to the infiltrators? Do you approve of this?" the prime minister added.

Reacting to PM's claim about his party's manifesto proposing to redistribute wealth to “those who have more children”, Kharge said, “Do only Muslims have them (children)? I have five.”

Priyank, Rahul, Priyadarshini, Jayashree, and Milind are Mallikarjun Kharge's children.

“I was the only son…

My house was burnt and everyone died… My father said ‘I am alive only to see your children?’” Kharge said.

"Poor people have (more) children as they do not have wealth. But why do you (Modi) only keep talking about Muslims? Muslims belong to this country," he said, asking people not to get misled as "we have to build the country by taking everyone together, no like them (BJP) by breaking it," Kharge added.

has also imposed costs on the petitioner and said someone is in custody by virtue of the court's judicial order.

The challenge is presently before the Supreme Court.

He (Kejriwal)is taking steps and using remedies. Law is equal for anyone. The court also observed that the petitioner's claims are fancy and devoid of any basis.

Arvind Kejriwal was arrested on March 21 by the ED in connection with the excise policy case. The ED alleged that the Aam Adami Party (AAP) is the major beneficiary of the proceeds of crime generated in the alleged liquor scam.

Above Stories and photos credit: www.hindustantimes.com 40 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024 — 41

Savi – A Bloody Housewife: Aditya Roy Kapur and Ananya Panday end Anil Kapoor and Divya Khossla relationship after two years: Report starrer to release on May 31, Actors Aditya Roy Kapur Koffee With Karan. While and Ananya Panday have both actors have previously teaser out on May 6 reportedly ended their addressed the media

Divya Khossla is poised to make her return with her upcoming film Savi - A Bloody Housewife. She takes the titular role alongside Bollywood actors Anil Kapoor and Harshvardhan Rane. This marks Khossla's first on-screen collaboration with Kapoor.

To further pique audience interest, the makers unveiled a motion poster that hints at Savi's multifaceted nature.

The poster opens with a seemingly ordinary scene a woman carrying a grocery bag. But the image takes a sharp turn, revealing the

same hand, now gripping a gun, stained with blood.

This intriguing juxtaposition has sparked discussions about the character's transformation and the secrets she harbours.

Directed by Abhinay Deo and produced by trio - Mukesh Bhatt, Bhushan Kumar, and Krishan Kumar, Savi - A Bloody Housewife promises a captivating cinematic experience. Shiv Chanana and Sakshi Bhatt join the team as co-producers, further solidifying the film's production value.

Nayanthara in talks with makers of Yash starrer Toxic: Report

Popular South Indian actress Nayanthara is reportedly in talks to join the cast of the highly anticipated film Toxic, starring Yash and directed by Geethu Mohandas. As per a report

by PinkVilla, sources close to the production, director Geethu Mohandas and actor Yash have been in discussions with Nayanthara for the role of Yash's sister in Toxic. These talks are said to be progressing positively.

"Nayanthara has shown her interest in doing Toxic and the logistics are being figured out at this point intime," a source revealed. "It’s a well-sketched character of a sister and suits her image of a strong woman. Nayanthara is impressed that Geethu Mohandas has written such a strong character for a female and she is connecting well with her vision.”

Both Geethu Mohandas

and Yash are reportedly keen to have Nayanthara join the cast. "The talks are on, and the team is working collectively to get the logistics in place," the source added. “If everything goes well, the makers will have Nayanthara on board in a fortnight.” However, the makers are yet to make an official comment on the same.

Having said that, it is worth mentioning here that a few weeks back, Bollywood Hungama reported that Kareena Kapoor Khan has been roped in the Yash starrer. A source clued into the development, “It is a brother-sister story with Yash and Kareena playing inseparable siblings. The director was keen to have Kareena on board in Toxic from the inception of the project. Negotiations were on,” a source told us.

relationship, according to a recent Times of India report.

A close friend of the couple is quoted as saying that they had been dating for "almost two years" and the break-up "came as a shock to all of us."

The report also stated that they remain cordial and are "trying to move on" from the situation. Ananya has reportedly found solace in spending time with her new pet. The news comes after weeks of speculation surrounding the couple's relationship status.

Last month, a cryptic post on Ananya's Instagram story fuelled rumors of a split.

Previously, Aditya and Ananya made headlines for their vacations together in Spain and other locations.

They were frequently spotted out and about in Mumbai, and Ananya even

playfully referred to herself as "Ananya Coy Kapur" on Karan Johar's chat show,

regarding public scrutiny of their personal lives, they have chosen to keep the specific reasons for their split private.

On the professional front, Ananya was last seen in Kho Gaye Hum Kahan, a Netflix film. She has a bunch of projects in her kitty including Control, a Vikramaditya Motwane directorial, and Call Me Bae, an Amazon Prime Video original show.

Meanwhile, Aditya’s last on-screen appearance was the second part of The Night Manager’s first season. The show also featured Sobhita Dhulipala and Anil Kapoor.

He will be next seen in Metro Inn Dino, sharing the screen space with Sara Ali Khan.

Kareena Kapoor Khan appointed as National Ambassador by UNICEF India In its 75th year of partnership with India, UNICEF India today announced the appointment of one of the most iconic stars of Indian Cinema, Kareena Kapoor Khan as the organization’s National Ambassador. In her role, Kareena Kapoor Khan will support UNICEF India in furthering every child’s right to early childhood development, health, education and gender equality.

As UNICEF India’s Celebrity Advocate since 2014, Kareena Kapoor Khan has been a strong advocate for girls’ education, gender equality, foundational learning, immunization and breastfeeding. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Khan advocated for children’s learning and return to school once they reopened. She has been an instrumental support in several UNICEF’s global campaigns on #EveryChildRights.

On her conferment as UNICEF India National Ambassador, Kareena Kapoor Khan said, “There are few things as important as the rights of children, the future generation of this world. I am honoured to continue my association with UNICEF

Release Date Movie Name 10 MAY 2024 Horrorscope (English) 10 MAY 2024 Srikanth 10 MAY 2024 Tipppsy 17 MAY 2024 Kartam Bhugtam 24 MAY 2024 The Heist 24 MAY 2024 Barah By Barah

now as India’s National Ambassador. I will strive to use my voice and influence for vulnerable children and their rights, especially around early childhood, education and gender equality. For every child deserves a childhood, a fair chance, a future.”

In the same event, UNICEF India also announced the appointment of its first ever Youth Advocates, who are peer leaders and champions on issues like climate action, mental health, innovations and Girls in STEM. Between 16 to 24 years the four advocates have specific areas of interest.

Gauranshi Sharma from Madhya Pradesh on right to play and disability inclusion, Kartik Verma From Uttar Pradesh on climate action and child rights advocacy, Nahid Afrin from Assam on mental health and early childhood development and Vinisha Umashankar, from Tamil Nadu is a budding innovator and STEM pioneer. These youth advocates are part of UNICEF’s global programme and join a cohort of more than 93 youth advocates have been appointed across the globe and are driving change on issues concerning children and young people.

Audience Score 00 64 00 00 00 50

Release Date Movie Name Audience Score 24 MAY 2024 Bhaiyya Ji 72 24 MAY 2024 The Garfield Movie (English) 67 31 MAY 2024 Mr. And Mrs. Mahi 43 31 MAY 2024 Dharamraobaba Atram 00 31 MAY 2024 Indian 2 80 31 MAY 2024 Baby John 77 Above Stories and photos credit: www.bollywoodhungama.com

42 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024

Huma Qureshi films with 300 villagers near Ahmedabad as Gulabi gets emotional ending: Report Huma Qureshi has completed filming for the upcoming movie Gulabi, a powerful tale celebrating the resilience and strength of women. Announced on International Women's Day, the film is a collaboration between Jio Studios and Echelon Productions.

Directed by Vipul Mehta and produced by Jyoti Deshpande and Vishal Rana, Gulabi is inspired by a real-life story. It follows the inspiring journey of an auto-rickshaw driver who emerges as a beacon of change, empowering women to take charge of their destinies.

According to a report in Mid-day, shot in Ahmedabad,

Gujarat, the film wrapped up with a significant crowd sequence. The production team brought together 300 people from nearby villages, and according to a unit source, the shoot was electrifying.

The source revealed, “The shoot was on the outskirts of Ahmedabad, and the production team had gathered 300 people from nearby villages. One would think that managing such a crowd would be a nightmare, but it was an electric shoot. Huma and the extras filmed the sequence without any hiccups.”

Qureshi expressed her deep connection to the film's message. "Working on Gulabi has been a joy," she

said. "The powerful narrative resonated deeply with me.

It's a story that speaks to the heart and soul."

Gulabi is slated to be Qureshi's next release and she is currently shooting Jolly LLB 3.

Akshay Oberoi joins star-studded cast of Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari The highly anticipated romcom Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari just got a whole lot brighter with the addition of talented actor Akshay Oberoi to its star-studded ensemble cast. Joining the likes of Varun Dhawan, Janhvi Kapoor, Sanya Malhotra, and Rohit Saraf, Akshay Oberoi is set to bring his charisma and comic timing to the silver screen in this eagerly awaited film.

Expressing his excitement about being part of the project, Akshay Oberoi shared, "Joining the cast of Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari is a fantastic opportunity. Working with such talented co-stars like Varun, Janhvi, and Sanya

is incredibly exciting. I'm eager for audiences to enjoy the blend of humor and romance we're bringing to

the screen. This film is set to be a memorable one!"

Under the banner of Dharma Productions, Sunny

Shah Rukh Khan to commence shooting his next in July or August

Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari is poised to be a laugh riot, blending humor and romance in a way that will resonate with audiences of all ages. The film is helmed

by Shashank Khaitan, and Akshay Oberoi is making his debut with this banner, reportedly playing one of the main supporting leads.

With an ensemble cast that boasts of talent and charisma, Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari is shaping up to be a must-watch for fans of the romantic comedy genre. The film is slated for release in 2025, and audiences eagerly await this entertaining cinematic offering from the renowned Dharma Productions.

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan recently addressed his upcoming work schedule, confirming the filming commencement of his next project. During an interaction before a Kolkata Knight Riders match versus Mumbai Indians, Shah Rukh revealed his plans to dedicate himself to a new film in the coming months.

Speaking about his decision to take a short break, Khan stated, "I just felt ki main thoda rest kar sakta hoon. Teen filmein kar chuka hoon, it took a lot of physical work also. So I said maybe I’ll take some time off. I told the whole team ki, main matches ko aaunga.”

He further added, “Fortunately, meri shooting ab August main hain, ya July… we plan in June, to June se shuru ho jayegi. So, I am absolutely free to come

to all the matches. Main khushi se aata hoon.” This announcement confirms widespread speculation about Khan's next venture.

The film in question is expected to be Sujoy Ghosh's action thriller titled King, produced by Siddharth Anand.

Speaking of the project a couple of weeks back, a source informed Bollywood Hungama, “King is an ambitious action film, unlike anyone's imagination. The team has been working on the pre-production for the last year to ensure that all aspects are covered in the right way - from script, to scale and action. Red Chillies Entertainment has always mounted worldclass products and King will be no different as the banner is going all out to ensure a grand debut for Suhana Khan.”

Ranveer Singh starrer Don 3 sets sight on international locations for filming; to shoot in London and Germany: Report The highly anticipated Don 3 is gearing up for production, with Ranveer Singh stepping into the iconic role of the charismatic criminal mastermind. This news, announced last year by director Farhan Akhtar, got the fans and industry talking, sparking both excitement and debate. While details surrounding the film have remained tightly under wraps, recent reports have shed some light on the production schedule and filming locations.

According to Dainik Bhaskar, the shoot is expected to commence later this year, aiming for a swift four-month turnaround. Interestingly, the report suggests a significant international focus, with Farhan Akhtar currently scouting locations in London and Germany. “A few days Call: (07) 3192 5188

ago, Farhan Akhtar reached London with the core team to finalize shooting locations for Don 3,” the report stated.

“Apart from London, the production team will also be heading to Germany. It's possible that filming might extend to other German cities as well.”

Adding to the intrigue, sources close to the production revealed a potential filming window between "after August this year and wrapping it up

by December." While official confirmation from Farhan Akhtar and the team is awaited, these reports have certainly piqued the interest of fans.

The decision to cast Ranveer Singh as the successor to Shah Rukh Khan's portrayal of Don has been a source of much discussion.

To announce

the new direction for the franchise, Farhan released a captivating teaser featuring Ranveer's voice delivering a powerful dialogue, “Sher jo so raha hain woh jagega kab, puchte hai yeh sab. Unse keh

do phir jaag utha hoon main, aur phir samne jald aane ko... (Everyone asks when the sleeping lion will wake up.

Tell them I have awakened, and I'll be back soon).” This announcement divided social

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media, with some fans eager to see Ranveer take on the role, while others expressed a sense of nostalgia for Shah Rukh Khan's iconic performance in the past two films.

In an interview with BBC Asian Network, Farhan Akhtar had said last year, “I'm just really looking forward to get it going. I mean Ranveer is amazing. He's great for the part. He's also, as you can imagine, really excited and really nervous. You know about the thing that you're filling some big shoes. But we went through the same emotional process when Shah Rukh Khan did it and everyone was like, ‘Oh my God, how can you replace Mr. Bachchan?’ That whole thing happened then. And it really is about an actor coming in and owning the part and

making it, really like giving it their style and their flair and he has that. He has that in spades. So he's gonna do that.

Yeah. So he's gonna do a great job. I think the responsibility is more of mine now to make sure that the script of the film works out the way I imagined."

He added, “The filming for Don (3) starts in 2025.

We start in January of 2025.

So there’s some time away.”

When asked what makes a good Don, he said, “Selfconfidence, flamboyance and the belief and the ability to do anything that your mind is set on.”

Produced by Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar under their banner Excel Entertainment, Don 3 is slated for a 2025 release. The leading lady opposite Ranveer Singh will be the talented Kiara Advani.

Above Stories and photos credit: www.bollywoodhungama.com THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024 — 43

Siddharth Anand confirms Hrithik Roshan’s Krrish 4

Filmmaker Siddharth Anand has confirmed the fourth edition of the Indian superhero franchise, Krrish.

Hrithik Roshan will reprise his role as the protagonist in the fourth chapter of the film in the sci-fi fantasy franchise after Koi.. Mil Gaya, Krrish and Krrish 3.

Bollywood actor Hrithik Roshan provided an update on the fourth installment of Krrish three years ago, in 2021. But there hasn’t been an official update from the makers lately. But earlier this week, a social media page uploaded a poster of Hrithik in his Krrish outfit with the caption, “He's coming.”

Siddharth Anand replied to the post saying, "Yep, he is."

Siddharth’s reply raises speculation on whether he would be directing the fourth film in the franchise after taking over the reins from Rakesh Roshan. There has

been no clarity on this yet.

Just earlier this year, Hrithik and Siddharth’s Fighter released in January. The two have also worked together in Bang Bang and War. Krrish is one of Bollywood's most successful franchises. Earlier in the year, Mid-day stated that Rakesh and Hrithik Roshan are working hard to develop an innovative and fresh concept for the upcoming film.

While Hrithik is presently filming War 2, the script for Krrish 4 is rumoured to be in advanced stages. The team intends to begin filming the film by next year, said the report.

“Hrithik has scheduled brainstorming sessions throughout the summer.

Both Rakesh and he want to deliver a story that will exceed expectations,” a source had told the publication at that time.

Junaid Khan and Khushi Kapoor to star in Hindi remake of Tamil hit Love Today, Phantom Films to make a comeback

It’s like a dream come true.

Like Rajesh Khanna and Sharmila Tagore’s progenies coming together. Once upon a time, the dreamer of all things celluloid Aamir Khan, dreamt of casting Sridevi and himself together in a film that he had himself written.

How do I know? He narrated the whole idea of his imagined SrideviAamir project for an hour when I first met him. It was a staggering script. Sadly, Aamir’s dream project with Sridevi never came true.

Now comes the next generation, and this time it is happening for sure.

Sridevi’s younger daughter Khushi Kapoor and Aamir Khan’s eldest born Junaid are coming together for a film which will be directed

Aamir’s most trusted director, the very talented Advait Chandan.

The untitled film is a remake of the 2022 Tamil hit Love Today which was directed by Pradeep Ranganathan and produced by AGS entertainment comprising Kalpathi S. Aghoram, Kalpathi S. Ganesh and Kalpathi S. Suresh.

The Hindi version with Junaid and Khushi is being produced by Shristi Behl and Phantom Films, the illustrious banner which once gave us epoch-defining films like Queen, Masaan and Udta Punjab. The banner Phantom Films is making a comeback with this JunaidKhushi starrer directed by Advait Chandan.

Trailer of Rajkummar Rao-Janhvi Kapoor starrer Mr And Mrs Mahi expected to be out next week The month of May is going to be an unexciting one for Bollywood as it’ll see the release of very few significant films. However, the regular flow of releases will begin from the last week of May. And the film that will inaugurate the movie-watching season is Mr And Mrs Mahi. Starring Rajkummar Rao and Janhvi Kapoor, it is scheduled to be released on May 31. A lot of hopes are pinned on this film, produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions and Zee Studios, and in this article, Bollywood Hungama brings to you an interesting update.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “The trailer of Mr And Mrs Mahi will be out in the second week of May. The final date will be locked in a couple of days.

After the trailer, the songs will be unveiled. The idea is to have a compact campaign

of around three weeks.”

The source continued, “Rajkummar will have one more release in May – Srikanth. The trailer of Mr And Mrs Mahi is expected to arrive around the release of this film.” Srikanth features the talented actor in the role of the visually impaired successful industrialist,

Srikanth Bolla and will be released in cinemas on May 10. It also stars Alaya F, Jyotika and Sharad Kelkar, Mr And Mrs Mahi is directed by Sharan Sharma, whose debut directorial was Gunjan Saxena – The Kargil Girl (2020).

Bollywood Hungama was the first one to break the news, in November

2021, that Sharan’s next film has been titled Mr And Mrs Mahi. In January 2022, the makers dropped pictures of Janhvi prepping with Dinesh Karthik for the role of a cricketer.

Later, Bollywood Hungama was also the first one to report that Mr And Mrs Mahi has been postponed and won’t make it on October 7, 2023, which was the initial release date of the film.

Mr And Mrs Mahi marks the fourth theatrical release for Janhvi Kapoor after Dhadak (2018), Roohi (2021) and Mili (2022). She’ll have two more theatrical films this year – the political thriller Ulajh and Jr NTRSaif Ali Khan co-starrer Pan India film, Devara. As for Rajkummar Rao, after Srikanth and Mr And Mrs Mahi, his other two releases in 2024 are Stree 2 and Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video.

Kapil Sharma’s Netflix show The Great Indian Kapil Show wraps up season 1 Brace yourselves, Kapil Sharma fans, as the comedian has wrapped up the first season of his muchanticipated Netflix show, The Great Indian Kapil Show. The news was revealed by none other than Archana Puran Singh, who shared a photo through her Instagram stories, captioning it, "Season wrap."

The confirmation of the show's sudden conclusion came from Archana herself, who spoke to Pinkvilla, saying, "Yes, we have wrapped up the shoot of season one of TGIKS; we shot the last episode of the season yesterday. It was great fun and celebration on the sets. The journey so far

on the show has been quite amazing. It was a delightful journey, and we had some amazing times on the sets."

The Great Indian Kapil Show premiered on Netflix on March 30, 2024, and within just two months, it

has already bid farewell to its first season. The show welcomed a stellar lineup of guests, including Ranbir Kapoor, Neetu Kapoor, Riddhima Kapoor Sahni, Rohit Sharma, Shreyas Iyer, Diljit Dosanjh, Parineeti Chopra, Vicky Kaushal, Sunny Kaushal, and the legendary Aamir Khan.

The sudden wrap-up of The Great Indian Kapil Show season 1 may have left fans yearning for more, but Kapil Sharma's ability to bring laughter and joy remains unmatched. As the team bids farewell to this season, viewers eagerly await news of potential renewal or Kapil's next comedic venture to grace their screens.

After Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff to star together in another film Just last month, Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff starred together in filmmaker Ali Abbas Zafar’s action saga Bade Miyan Chote Miyan. Produced by Vashu Bhagnani, Jackky Bhagnani and Deepshikha Deshmukh’s Pooja Entertainment, it bore no resemblance to the same producers’ 1998 comedy of the same name, which starred Amitabh Bachchan and Govinda in titular roles.

The makers promoted and marketed the film well.

But unfortunately, Bade

Miyan Chote Miyan just couldn’t click at the box office.

This was the first time that Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff appeared together in the same film.

However, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan was definitely not the last film where the two would appear together. In fact, the next film in which they would be seen together will also see them play men in uniform, just like BMCM. Akshay and Tiger are a part of the ensemble cast of Rohit Shetty’s Singham

Again, the third film in the Singham franchise and the next film in the filmmaker’s cop universe after Singham, Singham Returns, Simmba and Sooryavanshi.

Akshay was always a part of Singham Again as Sooryavanshi. It is a norm now for all three characters – Singham, Simmba and Sooryavanshi – to unite in all the cop dramas of Shetty. And last year, it was revealed that Tiger Shroff would be an additional cast member in Singham Again and that he would be

playing an ACP (Assistant Commissioner of Police) named Satya.

Interestingly, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan clashed with Maidaan at the box office. The main lead of the latter Ajay Devgn will be Akshay and Tiger’s co-star this time in Singham Again.

We don’t know whether Akshay and Tiger would share the screen in Singham Again. In case Bade Miyan Chote Miyan would have been a major success, the chances of the same would have been higher.

Above Stories and photos credit: www.bollywoodhungama.com 44 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024

Ajay Devgn and NH Studioz join hands for Neeraj Pandey’s Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha NH Studioz and Ajay Devgn continue their partnership with their 11th film together, titled Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha. This collaboration marks a long-standing relationship that began way back in 1992 with the movie Jigar.

Shreyans Hirawat, representing NH Studioz, expressed his excitement about the project. He said, “We will be releasing our 11th collaboration with Ajay sir this year and this is a very special film. Ajay and Tabu will weave magic on screen with a mature love story and the film is being directed by none other than the critically acclaimed, celebrated director, Neeraj Pandey."

Hirawat further revealed that Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha blends romance and thriller elements. The film's narrative unfolds over 23 years, spanning

from 2000 to 2023. "The movie promises to offer a unique combination of a thriller and portrayal of love's journey, a heartfelt portrayal of mature love

and companionship on the big screen," Hirawat added.

Director Neeraj Pandey also chimed in, sharing his enthusiasm for exploring a love story beyond the physical. "Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha seeks to explore the depths of a love that transcends mere physicality and dives into the intricacies of the human psyche. This storyline remains largely uncharted in Bollywood," remarked Neeraj Pandey.

Produced by Shital Bhatia, Narendra Hirawat, Kumar Mangat Pathak (Panorama Studios), and Sangeeta Ahir, Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha is set to hit theaters on July 5th.

Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Heeramandi: Hundreds of workers toiled for 10 months to recreate Lahore of 1900s Sanjay Leela Bhansali's much-anticipated entry into the realm of OTT platforms with Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar has finally released. The series, spanning 8 episodes, transports viewers back to the early 1900s, offering a meticulously crafted depiction of Lahore. From the opulent lifestyle of the Tawaifs to the intricate details adorning city walls and storefronts, every aspect of Heeramandi immerses viewers in the bygone era, evoking a sense of nostalgia and wonder.

What sets Heeramandi apart is the dedication and labor invested behind the scenes. It's revealed

that hundreds of workers dedicated nearly 10 months to recreating the Lahore of yesteryears under Bhansali's visionary direction. This painstaking effort shines through in the series as viewers are treated to a visually

stunning portrayal of the Diamond Bazaar.

Originally conceived as a 14-page concept by Bhansali's friend, Moin Beg two decades ago, Heeramandi underwent a transformative journey before its digital debut.

Bhansali's decision to adapt the concept for a series format allowed for a deeper exploration of characters and narratives, enriching the storyline and bringing the world of Heeramandi to life in vivid detail.

Helmed by the acclaimed filmmaker himself, Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar has become a global sensation, released on Netflix across 190 countries in May. With its blend of captivating storytelling and breathtaking visuals, the series marks a triumphant debut for Bhansali in the digital domain, leaving audiences eagerly anticipating his future endeavors.

Comedy star Bharti Singh to undergo surgery for gallbladder stone: “I am unable to bear the pain” Comedienne Bharti Singh, celebrated for her boundless energy and infectious humor on The Kapil Sharma Show and as the vibrant host of Dance Deewane 4, finds herself navigating uncharted waters as she confronts a daunting health crisis. Admitted to Kokilaben Hospital in Mumbai, Bharti's hospitalization arises from relentless bouts of stomach pain attributed to gallbladder stones. In a candid and emotionally raw vlog update, she bared her vulnerability, sharing the intensity of her discomfort and revealing the poignant ache of separation from her cherished two-year-old son, Gola.

"I am unable to bear the pain. There is a stone in the gallbladder, we felt it was high acidity, but that wasn't the case. The stone that is in the gallbladder has got stuck in a vein; as a result, I am unable to eat anything and I vomit,” Bharti confessed in her new vlog, her voice tinged with both physical agony and maternal longing.

The revelation offers a stark glimpse into the stark reality of her ordeal, punctuating the glitz and glamour of her public persona with the rawness of human vulnerability.

Despite grappling with the harsh sting of physical distress, Bharti remains resilient, her spirit unyielding in the face of adversity.

As Bharti braces herself for the impending surgery to rid her body of the debilitating gallbladder stones, her journey towards recovery is marked by an unwavering resolve to emerge stronger. The hospital walls, once alien and foreboding, now serve as the backdrop for her

unwavering determination and unshakeable faith in the healing process. Friends, fans, and well-wishers rally around her, offering words of encouragement and prayers for her swift restoration to health.

Meanwhile, in the corridors of Kokilaben Hospital, medical professionals diligently chart out a course of action, navigating the intricate terrain of Bharti's medical condition with precision and care. With surgery looming on the horizon, Bharti's diet undergoes a drastic transformation, as she is relegated to a liquid regimen in preparation for the impending procedure.

Yet, amidst the clinical routines and sterile confines of the hospital ward, Bharti's indomitable spirit shines through, illuminating the darkness with a beacon of hope and resilience.

During uncertainty and physical discomfort, Bharti finds solace in the unwavering support of her loving husband, Haarsh Limbachiyaa, who stands by her side as a pillar of strength and unwavering support.

Together, they weather the storm, drawing strength from their bond and the love that binds them together.

Govinda’s niece Ragini Khanna breaks silence on her conversion rumors: “For me, humanity is the biggest religion” Television star Ragini Khanna, known for her roles in shows like Sasural Genda Phool and for being Govinda’s niece, recently found herself embroiled in a controversy due to fake news circulating on social media.

Reports surfaced claiming that Ragini had converted to Christianity, sparking widespread attention. The situation escalated when Ragini herself inadvertently shared the false post on her Instagram account, leading to confusion and chaos among her followers.

However, Ragini has since

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clarified that the news of her conversion is entirely false and that she remains steadfast in her original faith. She explained that she mistakenly shared the post without realizing its fraudulent nature.

“As an actor, we have to be more careful, this is the lesson I learned from this incident. Actually, for the last few months, I have been re-posting my fans’ posts. I believe that whatever I am today is because of my fans.

By re-posting his post on my social media pages, I express my gratitude. But didn’t

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think it would become an issue (and) questions will be raised on my identity,” Ragini said, speaking with Dainik Bhaskar.

“A fan made a fake post (where I am seen converting to Christianity) and tagged my account. Then he sent a request for collaboration with me. I accepted by mistake.

After some time, he shared that fake post where I am talking about my religious conversion. He is completely fake. I have reported. Well, I have millions of fans, among them if one person does such a stupid thing, I can’t blame

my entire fan club. My fans have been very loyal to me and I also respect them a lot,” she added.

She also stated that she respects all religions and has been attending church every Sunday for more than ten years. “But this does not mean at all that I have changed my religion. For me, humanity is the biggest religion and it will always remain the same,” she said.

Ragini was recently seen at her cousin Arti Singh’s wedding. She was seen participating in the wedding rituals.

Above Stories and photos credit: www.bollywoodhungama.com THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024 — 45

Australia's opponents confirmed for 2024 T20 World Cup Alyssa Healy's side to face India, New Zealand, Pakistan and a qualifier in Group A in Bangladesh in October Australia will begin their quest for an unprecedented women's T20 World Cup four-peat against either Scotland or Sri Lanka with the ICC releasing the schedule for the 2024 event overnight.

Bangladesh are hosting the tournament for the second time from October 3-20 after previously staging the 2014 edition, which Australia won to claim the T20 World Cup's first ever three-peat.

After winning the 2018 tournament in the West Indies, the 2020 edition in front of 86,174 fans at the MCG, and last year's event in South Africa, Australia have again lifted the trophy on three consecutive occasions and will be searching for a fourth straight title later this year.

But they enter the 2024 tournament with a new captain following Meg Lanning's international

retirement with Alyssa Healy to lead the country for the first time in a World Cup. The six-time champions will face India, New Zealand, Pakistan and Qualifier 1 (either Scotland or Sri Lanka) in Group A, with the final spot in the pool to be determined on Tuesday with the final of the ongoing qualifying event in the UAE. Scotland secured passage into their first-ever women's

T20 World Cup on Sunday after knocking out favourites Ireland by eight wickets in the first semi-final on the back of an outstanding 4-8 from skipper Kathryn Bryce.

They'll face Sri Lanka in the final of the qualifying tournament after Chamari Athapaththu's side beat hosts UAE by 15 runs in the second semi-final.

The ICC hasn't specified if the winner will go into

Group A as Qualifier 1 and therefore face Australia in their tournament opener on October 4, or join Group B as Qualifier 2 alongside Bangladesh, England, South Africa and West Indies.

Australia then face Pakistan (October 8) and New Zealand (October 11) before rounding out the group stage with a mouthwatering match-up against India on October 13,

Chennai snap five-game losing streak as Starc's KKR go top Marcus Stoinis top scored but Lucknow Super Giants fell 98 runs short chasing Kolkata's 6-235 Ravindra Jadeja put in a stellar all-round performance to help Chennai Super Kings beat Punjab Kings by 28 runs and move into third place in the Indian Premier League.

Kolkata Knight Riders scored big to defeat Lucknow Super Giants by 98 runs in the second game of the day to go top of the table.

Jadeja scored 43 runs off 26 balls to anchor Chennai's innings to 9-167 and then took 3-20 in four overs to help restrict Punjab's chase to 9-139.

It was only Chennai's second win in the last five games, and also ended their five-match losing streak against Punjab.

Put into bat, Chennai lost Ajinkya Rahane (9) early but Ruturaj Gaikwad (32) and New Zealander Daryl Mitchell (30) put on 57 off 32 balls for the second wicket.

Wrist spinner Rahul Chahar then took 3-23 in four overs to restrict the visiting side. He dismissed Gaikwad and then bighitting Shivam Dube for a golden duck. Sam Curran dismissed Moeen Ali for 17 as Chennai was reduced to

5-101 in 12.4 overs.

Jadeja guided Chennai to a challenging total on a twopaced wicket. He hit three fours and two sixes, while Harshal Patel's death spell did not allow excess runscoring. MS Dhoni batted at No. 9, for the first time, and Patel bowled him for a golden duck.

In reply, Punjab's top order crumbled. Tushar Deshpande dismissed Jonny Bairstow (7) and Rilee Rossouw for a three-ball duck in the space of four balls.

Impact player Prabhsimran Singh scored 30 off 23 balls, and along with Shashank Singh's 20ball 27 helped rebuild the innings from 2-9.

But Jadeja did not allow the middle order to get away, sending back Singh as well as Curran (7). Pacer Simarjeet Singh came on as an impact sub and took 2-16 in three overs as Punjab's chase never looked a threat.

Elsewhere, Sunil Narine continued his impressive batting form with a 39ball 81 as Kolkata thrashed Lucknow.

Narine hit seven sixes and six fours, putting on 61 runs off 26 deliveries with fellow opener Phil Salt (32 off 14).

The two-time champions reached 6-235 in 20 overs after being asked to bat first in Lucknow.

Impact player Angkrish Raghuvanshi scored 32,

captain Shreyas Iyer hit 23 and Ramandeep Singh hit three sixes in his six-ball 25 not out. It was Kolkata's sixth 200-plus total this season.

The hosts failed to challenge and were bowled out for 137 runs in 16.1 overs. Pacer Harshit Rana (3-24) and mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy (3-30) combined for six wickets to run through Lucknow's line-up.

Marcus Stoinis top scored with 36 off 21 balls, while skipper KL Rahul made 25.

They were the only batters to cross 20.

Mitchell Starc dismissed opener Arshin Kulkarni to finish with 1-22 from two overs.

with all Group A matches to be played in Sylhet.

Group B matches will all be played at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka where Australia had their first experience of the conditions they'll face in Bangladesh during this year's World Cup when they swept the hosts in three ODIs and three T20Is last month.

"Everyone in the squad is taking something home that they can work on for when we come back here in September, so it's been hugely worthwhile for us," Healy said following the series.

"The results went our way but from a big picture perspective, and what we're building towards in September, October, I think we got everything we possibly could out of this series."

The 10 teams will play 23 matches across 18 days culminating in the final in Dhaka on October 20.

Last year's runners-up South Africa will launch the tournament against England on October 3 before hosts

Bangladesh face Qualifier 2 in the evening match in Dhaka.

Pakistan will battle fierce rivals India in their first match of the tournament in Sylhet on October 6, with India having already opened their campaign against New Zealand two days' earlier.

The top two teams from each group will qualify for the semi-finals, scheduled for October 17 in Sylhet and October 18 in Dhaka before the champions are crowned at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium two days later.

ICC chief executive Geoff Allardice said this year's event had the "potential to transform women's cricket in Bangladesh".

"We have seen the impact and success of each of the women's World Cups over the last few years, building significant momentum for women's sport," he said.

"As a strategic priority, we are excited to see the positive impact it will have on and off the field in South Asia and across the world."

Each team will play two warm-up matches each from September 27 to October 1 at the Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protisthan cricket grounds in Dhaka to prepare for the tournament with Australia's two opponents Qualifier 2 followed by Ashes rivals England.

League lifts embargo ahead of milestone WBBL season

A full analysis of where every WBBL|10 squad is at and what each club needs ahead of next season Preparations for the milestone 10th season of the Women's Big Bash League officially ramp up from today with confirmation the league's contracting embargo has been lifted.

It comes after a new season structure was revealed earlier this week with the home-and-away stage reduced to a 10-match campaign in line with the men's competition.

Like the men's competition, the Weber WBBL|10 contracting window will begin with a week-long retention and trade period that runs until 12 noon next Friday (May 10) where clubs will be able to re-sign their players from last season, sign any Cricket Australia contracted player

without a WBBL deal and execute a trade with another club.

Once the full contracting window is open on May 10, clubs will be allowed to poach out-of-contract players from rival clubs and sign one overseas player under the league's new multi-year contracting mechanism announced last month.

A club's primary squad for WBBL|10 must consist of 15 players by the commencement of the season, including a minimum of two overseas players selected via the draft but not including a presigned overseas player on a multi-year contract.

The lottery to determine the WBBL|10 Draft order has been earmarked for June with the draft proposed to again take place in September.

Above Stories and photos credit: www.cricket.com.au 46 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024

John Harnden Steps Down from CA Board Cricket Australia congratulates John Harnden AM on his significant contribution to cricket as he steps down from the CA Board of Directors after eight years.

Harnden, who is currently CEO of Melbourne and Olympic Parks Trust, is one of Australia’s pre-eminent sports administrators and has played a leading role in cricket administration for the past 14 years.

As CEO of the SACA from 2010-2012 he was instrumental in the highly successful redevelopment of the Adelaide Oval.

Harnden was CEO of the ICC Cricket World Cup Organising Committee in 2015 in Australia and NZ, which was widely

Photo credit: www.sbs.com.au

considered one of the most successful staged with more than one million attendees

and $1 billion in economic benefit to the host nations.

He chaired the organising

North Queensland Games puts Cairns in the spotlight • Cairns to host North Queensland Games with 2,000 athletes and 30 sports • The event will provide an estimated $3 million boost for the local economy • The North Queensland Games begin with an opening ceremony on 3 May and run until 6 May. About 2,000 athletes will converge on Cairns this weekend for the biennial North Queensland Games.

An official opening ceremony will take place at Fogarty Park on Friday night before participants compete across 24 traditional and non-traditional sports, with competition finishing on Monday 6 May. An expected 12,000 people will attend, with close to 5,700 travelling specifically for the Games.

The event will provide an estimated $3 million boost for the local economy with 18,500 direct visitor nights.

The Miles Labor Government is sponsoring the event with $150,000 through the Department of Tourism and Sport and a further $10,000 through Tourism and Events Queensland’s Destination Events Program.

During the Games, the Queensland Academy of Sport (QAS) will also be engaging with the community as part of its Youfor2032 talent identification program, while the QAS’ Coach Development Team will be on hand to offer advice to local coaches.

The 2024 North Queensland Games is the 20th edition of the event and marks the 40th anniversary since the inaugural Games in Townsville in 1984.

Quotes attributable to Call: (07) 3192 5188

Sport Minister Michael Healy: “The North Queensland Games represents a wonderful opportunity to not only showcase Cairns as a destination, but also showcase the region’s resilience,” Mr Healy said.

“The fact that Cairns is hosting one of Australia’s largest regional events, in the wake of Tropical Cyclone Jasper and the floods that followed, is testament to the strength and determination of the North Queensland community.

“This is a celebration of both the region’s extraordinary sporting talent and its spirit, and no doubt will bring the wider community together.

“The region has produced some of Australia’s finest athletes, and many competing here will have their sights set on representing their country in front of family and friends at the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games in eight years’ time.

“Above all, the Games will give a lift to the Cairns community as the region continues to recover from an incredibly challenging summer.”

Quotes attributable to North Queensland Sports Foundation CEO Stephen Farrell: "The North Queensland Games is the largest regularly run multi-sport event

across regional Australia and provides a unique opportunity for grass roots sporting organisations and regional communities. The Games attracts intrastate, interstate and overseas athletes” Mr Farrell said.

“The event has been showcasing the region’s immense talent for 40 years and the 2024 edition will be the 19th Games held over that period.

“While the athletes and the competition provide the centrepiece, the NQ Games also creates an opportunity to build connections, and create enduring memories for competitors, supporters and visitors.

“With around 2,000 participants this year, the 2024 NQ Games will be a diverse, spirited, unique and fun event for athletes of all abilities and at all competition levels.”

Quotes attributable to Boxer and North Queensland Games Ambassador Leah Rueben: "This event offers a fantastic opportunity for athletes to test themselves against quality opposition within a genuine multi-sport Games atmosphere,” Miss Rueben said.

“Bringing the North Queensland community together also allows us to get to know other athletes on a personal level and forge long lasting friendships.”

committee for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in 2020, a transformative

moment for sport in Australia, which included the final being played in front of 86,174 people at the MCG – a record crowd for women’s sport in Australia.

He was also chair for the highly successful ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in Australia in 2022 that included the iconic match between India and Pakistan at the MCG. Most recently, Harnden has played a significant part in measures to enhance the Big Bash Leagues as the chair of CA’s Big Bash Advisory Group, and was a member of CA’s Audit and Risk Committee and Media Rights Advisory Group.

CA Chair Mike Baird said: “John has had an extensive influence on cricket in Australia and

been an impactful director of CA for the past eight years.

“With key pillars of our five-year strategic plan in place and having served 8 years, John felt now was a good time for him to step down.

“John has been one of Australia’s foremost sports administrators and been a huge support to me in my time on the Board and as Chair.

“On behalf of everyone involved across Australian Cricket, I’d like to thank John for his expertise, passion and clear decision making over his term.”

SACA will now commence their process to nominate a replacement Director.

Weber WBBL | 10 Contracting Window open Clubs will step up their pursuit of the Weber WBBL|10 title from today, with the Contracting Window now open for players to be traded and signed.

The countdown to the League’s milestone tenth season began this week with confirmation of an optimised 43-match (40 home and away, plus three Finals) structure that prioritises quality via enhanced player availability, scheduling, broadcast and events.

The Contracting Window begins with a Retention and Trade period, running for one week until 12:00pm AEST on Friday, May 10.

During this period, Clubs may increase their squad size via: • Executing a new contract, or extending the current contract, of any player from their WBBL|09 squad • Signing a CA Contracted Player without a WBBL contract for the upcoming season • Executing a trade with another Club The second contracting phase will then begin next Friday, with Clubs able to further increase their squad size via additional signings and trades.

Download the Big Bash App to stay up to date with the latest WBBL news and player signings.

This includes the signing of one Overseas Player to a multi-year contract. This mechanism, introduced to both Big Bash Leagues for this season, will attract and retain top global talent.

This Overseas Player may be signed at any of the Overseas Player Draft salary bands, or at a price negotiated above Platinum.

The contract can run for up to three years, and the

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Photo credit: www.cricketworld.com

player must guarantee full availability, including Finals, in their second and third year.

An Overseas Player signed to a multi-year contract will not enter the Draft player pool. Nominations for the Draft will open soon.

A Weber WBBL Club’s primary squad must consist of 15 players by the commencement of the season. This includes a minimum of two Overseas Players selected via the Draft, not including a presigned player on a multiyear contract.

The full Weber WBBL|10 schedule will be announced soon.

Alistair Dobson, Cricket Australia’s General Manager, Big Bash Leagues, said: “The Weber WBBL is the world’s leading cricket league for women and this week we have laid the platform for future growth as we enter our milestone tenth season.

“The certainty of a 43game season has allowed us to lift the contracting embargo and allow Clubs to build a squad to contend for the WBBL|10 title with confidence.”

Weber WBBL|10 squads

Current club lists for Weber WBBL|10, as at May 3, 2024.

Adelaide Strikers: Jemma Barsby, Darcie Brown, Katie Mack, Tahlia McGrath, Bridget Patterson, Madeline Penna, Megan Schutt, Amanda-Jade Wellington Brisbane Heat: Laura Harris, Ellie Johnston, Jess Jonassen, Charli Knott, Georgia Redmayne Hobart Hurricanes: Heather Graham, Amy Smith, Molly Strano, Rachel Trenaman Melbourne Renegades: Josie Dooley, Ella Hayward, Sophie Molineux, Georgia Wareham, Courtney Webb Melbourne Stars: Sophie Day, Nicole Faltum, Kim Garth, Meg Lanning, Annabel Sutherland Perth Scorchers: Chloe Ainsworth, Stella Campbell, Piepa Cleary, Maddy Darke, Alana King, Lilly Mills, Chloe Piparo Sydney Sixers: Maitlan Brown, Erin Burns, Lauren Cheatle, Ashleigh Gardner, Alyssa Healy, Kate Pelle, Ellyse Perry, Kate Peterson Sydney Thunder: Samantha Bates, Hannah Darlington, Saskia Horley, Anika Learoyd, Claire Moore, Tahlia Wilson.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024 — 47

Jason Moloney vs. Yoshiki Takei: Mouth-watering unification matchups loom as Australian rides Japanese wave No matter which direction Jason Moloney looks, there are big fights and box office storylines.

The Australian WBO bantamweight world champion will look to make the second defence of his title when he takes on the undefeated Yoshiki Takei at the sold-out 55,000-capacity Tokyo Dome on Monday.

Such is the magnitude of the show and the stardom of Inoue, other boxers in the lighter weight classes are experiencing a level of attention they haven’t seen.

“I just got to Tokyo and walked around to grab some food from the supermarket and got stopped a bunch of times by different people on the street for photos and autographs,” Moloney told The Sporting News.

“There was a crowd of people with cameras and photos and recorders wanting to interview me at the airport, which is something I’ve never experienced before.”

Moloney puts his popularity among the locals down to his valiant effort en route to a seventh-round stoppage courtesy of Inoue back in 2020.

“I think they just appreciated my fighting spirit, my effort and my will to win against Inoue when other guys have got in there and crumbled or just gone into survival mode,” he said.

“They could see that I was determined to try and win the fight and had some moments.

“These guys are true

And when it comes to IBF champion Manny Rodriguez, who puts his strap on the line against Ryosuke Nishida in Osaka on Saturday, memories of Moloney’s 2018 splitdecision world-title loss to the Puerto Rican won’t be far from his mind.

“That’s the top of the wishlist for me,” Moloney said when asked about a Rodriguez rematch earlier this year.

“If I could choose the next fight, that’s the one.”

boxing fans, they love the sport and they’re very well educated fans too and I think they appreciated what they saw, which was great, but I know I’m a much better fighter than what I showed in that fight.”

With a win against Takei on Monday, the 33-year-old Australian is looking to set up a blockbuster unification bout later this year, giving him the chance to prove he’s now the top dog at the weight.

“All four bantamweight world champions are currently in Tokyo,” Moloney said.

“We’ve all fought around the same timeframe so let’s hope we can make the unifications happen after I get past Takei.

“There’s some huge fights and with what’s going on here with Japanese boxing at the

moment and the big fights that they’re putting on, it’s super exciting to be a part of it all.”

Should Moloney defeat Takei, he’ll have no shortage of inspiration if he can secure a date with either of the three other titleholders in the division.

Takuma Inoue, the younger brother of Naoya, holds the WBA strap and fights Sho Ishida on Monday, putting himself on a potential collision course with Moloney.

The only stoppage defeat on Moloney's 27-2 record, came against “The Monster” in his bantamweight days and he’d relish the chance to square the ledger against the Inoues.

Similarly, Moloney would only have to look at his twin brother Andrew’s brutal stoppage at the hands of Junto

Nakatani for motivation if a meeting with the WBC champ were to materialise.

Coming just a week after Moloney outclassed Vincent Astrolabio to claim the vacant belt last May, Andrew was on the receiving end of the Knockout of the Year in the final round of his WBO super flyweight world title bout with the classy southpaw.

“It would mean the world to me and the family to get that one back,” he said.

“Obviously it was a devastating defeat, watching my brother lose to Nakatani in that fight.

“To get one back for him would be a very special moment and for me to achieve my dream of being a unified world champion and have another belt over my shoulder would make that even sweeter.”

Moloney Rodriguez As for which one appeals most, “Mayhem” isn’t too picky.

“Each of those fights, there’s some history and a lot of meaning there and obviously for me, having the opportunity to fight in the unification is a huge step forward in my career and the big fights that I want to be a part of,” he said.

“There’s not really a preference, I just want to go out there and make a good statement and win this fight and then whichever one comes first, I’m all for it.

“They’re all fights that are going to be very possible to put together as long as I win this fight against Takei.”

Moloney is right to not look past his current opponent.

The Victorian is now Australia’s only male world champion following Tim Tszyu’s upset defeat to Sebastian Fundora, another reminder of the unpredictable

nature of the sport.

A former standout kickboxer, Takei has made the switch to boxing a successful one to date.

“He’s only had eight professional boxing fights but he’s won them all and he’s knocked them all out and that’s all you can do,” Moloney said.

“We don’t really know exactly how good this guy is at the moment, this is obviously a big jump up in level for him.

“I’ve prepared for this guy like it’s the hardest fight of my life and I think it will be a tricky fight.

“That’s why I’ve really dedicated myself and applied myself in this training camp and invested heavily in bringing over three very good sparring partners from Japan to help me get ready for this guy.

“I can see that he’s explosive, he’s got good power, he throws some pretty unorthodox, wild punches, jumping in from long range and things like that.

“He’s the sort of guy that you can’t lose focus on. I’ve seen this before and I won’t get caught up in the moment.

“As long as I’m focused and at my best, I believe my best will be good enough.”

With the Japanese boxing boom showing no sign of slowing down, a statement win on Monday could set Moloney well on his way to receiving the mainstream recognition he's not yet been able to capture in his homeland.

Naoya Inoue vs. Luis Nery live updates, result, highlights from 2024 boxing fight Naoya Inoue is arguably the finest pound-forpound fighter in the sport and he’s also one of its most exciting. The Japanese sensation is back in action for the maiden defense of his undisputed super bantamweight championship against Mexico’s Luis Nery at the Tokyo Dome on May 6.

The 12-round bout, plus undercard action, will be broadcast by ESPN+ in the U.S. Inoue (26-0, 23 KOs) wiped out two unified champions at 122 pounds.

In July, “The Monster” scored a crushing eighthround TKO over Stephen

Fulton to claim WBC and WBO titles. Five months later, Marlon Tapales surrendered his IBF and WBA titles to Inoue, who won that bout via 10thround knockout.

At elite level, Nery (351, 27 KOs) is essentially the last man standing at 122 pounds.

The Mexican-born southpaw has proven his class by posting stoppage wins over the likes of Shinsuke Yamanaka, Juan Carlos Payano, McJoe Arroyo and Azat Hovhannisyan.

However, despite Nery’s vaunted punching power and experience, he’ll need something very special to

The Japanese sensation is back in action for the maiden defense of his undisputed super bantamweight championship against Mexico’s Luis Nery at the Tokyo Dome on May 6. derail the champion.

The Sporting News will provide live coverage from the full card in Japan and round-by-round scoring for the main event.

Above Stories and photos credit: www.sportingnews.com

48 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024

Premium Select Finance QCUP 2024.... concluded with the satisfying QFFA's the mission to 'connect communities'

The 4 day event concluded with a Social evening with presentations of awards and trophies.

Congratulations to Team Ra, winners of the Opens final after a thriller against Labasa.

And congratulations to Team Nadi, winners of the Masters after a thriller against Labasa.

Congratulations to all the affiliated teams, representing your colours with immense admiration

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and enjoying the beautiful game.

Please visit our Facebook page for all updates and recipients individual awards.

QFFA is proud to represent the Fiji community and invites you to participate in our events.

QFFA thanks all the sponsors, teams and soccer lovers to grace your presence at the ground, and look forward to your continued support.

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024 — 49

Hepatitis C – How is it different to Hepatitis B? Hepatitis C unlike hepatitis B has an easily accessible and simple cure. However, unlike hepatitis B, the hepatitis C virus cannot be prevented by vaccination. This is why, like with hepatitis B, it is important to check if you have ever been exposed to the virus.

Hepatitis C is endemic around the world and is passed from blood-to-blood contact. Unlike hepatitis B, it is rarely transmitted from mother to child at birth.

People living with chronic hepatitis C don’t usually have any signs or symptoms until the virus has caused damage to their liver – this can take many years to occur. Hepatitis C can also cause liver cancer and therefore by being cured of the virus you can greatly reduce the risks of liver damage and liver cancer.

How do people get infected with the virus?

• Blood transfusions, medical and dental procedures performed overseas – including cosmetic procedures.

• Blood transfusions or organ transplants undertaken in Australia before 1990.

• Tattooing, piercings, body modifications that may

or expensive?

• No. Treatment is very easy, and the new treatments have an extremely high cure rate.

• Treatment takes between 8 and 12 weeks and involved only taking 1 or 3 tablets a day.

• Hepatitis C medications are very cheap – costing around $70-$120 if you have a Medicare Card, and less if you have a Healthcare Card.

• If you do not have a Medicare Card, you can buy hepatitis C medications online (www.fixhepc.com) with a doctor’s prescription

have not been done under strict infection control – e.g. in some one’s home, or in another country.

• Sharing of personal hygiene equipment such as razors, toothbrushes etc.

Remember you cannot tell by looking at someone if they are living with hepatitis C. • Traditional practices (medical or cultural) involving penetration of the skin using shared tools or equipment.

How can you find out if you are living with

hepatitis C? • A simple blood test (by any doctor or nurse practitioner) or through a community point of care (finger prick) testing facility will let you know if you have hepatitis C antibodies (HCVAb) – which means you have been exposed to the virus, but it does not mean you definitely have hepatitis C. • Further testing for hepatitis C virus is needed (HCV-PCR or HCV RNA testing) to confirm whether you have hepatitis C or not.

This needs to be done by your

doctor or nurse practitioner. If virus is detected in your blood (the HCV-PCR or HCV RNA test is positive), you will need treatment.

How and where do you get treatment?

• All GPs in Australia and some nurse practitioners can prescribe treatment for hepatitis C. • If you have liver damage your GP will refer you to a Liver specialist for further medical management.

Is treatment difficult

How do you know you have been cured after treatment?

• You can see your doctor to do another hepatitis C RNA (PCR) test one month after completing the treatment. If it is negative, you are cured.

Can you get hepatitis C again after being cured?

• Yes, you can be reinfected with hepatitis C. There is no vaccine for hepatitis C. This is why it is very important to avoid blood contact – no matter how small the amount, like what may be on a toothbrush.

If you would like a test for hepatitis C the Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland is able to provide Free confidential finger prick testing to check for hepatitis C antibodies before December 2024.

For more information please contact (BCHWs add your details here) or you can visit our webpage at www. eccq.com.au/bbv.

You can also contact us by email at health@eccq.com.au or call 3844 9166.

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

Secret Benefits Of Guava Leaves For Hair of the incredible benefits of guava leaves for hair, you might be wondering how to incorporate them into your hair care routine. Here are a few simple methods:

Nimisha Modi

Hetvi Hair & Beauty 0412350013

In the world of natural remedies for hair care, guava leaves stand out as a hidden gem. While guava fruit is celebrated for its delicious taste and numerous health benefits, its leaves often go unnoticed, especially when it comes to hair care. However, the truth is that guava leaves are packed with nutrients and compounds that can work wonders for your hair, particularly in promoting thickness and strength.

Let’s delve into the secret benefits of guava leaves for achieving luscious, thick locks.

Table of Contents • The Nutrient Powerhouse: What’s in Guava Leaves?

• Vitamin C • Antioxidants • Essential Oils • Guava Leaves: The Key to Thicker Hair • Stimulates Hair Growth • Strengthens Hair Roots • Prevents Hair Loss • Conditions the Scalp • Adds Shine and Luster • How to Use Guava Leaves for Hair Thickness • Guava Leaf Infusion • Guava Leaf Hair Mask • Guava Leaf Oil • Final Thoughts

individuals, and guava leaves offer a natural solution. The antioxidants in these leaves help in combating free radicals that can weaken the hair follicles. By protecting the follicles, guava leaves reduce hair fall and promote thicker hair growth.

THE NUTRIENT POWERHOUSE: WHAT’S IN GUAVA LEAVES? Before we get into the benefits, it’s essential to understand what makes guava leaves so special.

These leaves are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and other nutrients that are crucial for hair health.

Some of the key components include: VITAMIN C Guava leaves are loaded with vitamin C, known for its antioxidant properties. This vitamin helps protect the hair follicles from damage caused by free radicals, thereby promoting healthier and stronger hair.

ANTIOXIDANTS Apart from

50 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024

vitamin

C, guava leaves contain various antioxidants such as flavonoids and tannins.

These compounds protect the hair from oxidative stress and damage, which can lead to thinning and breakage.

ESSENTIAL OILS Guava leaves also contain essential oils that have antimicrobial properties.

This helps in keeping the scalp clean and free from infections, ensuring optimal conditions for hair growth.

Now that we know what guava leaves have to offer let’s explore the incredible benefits, they can provide for achieving thicker hair.

STIMULATES HAIR GROWTH One of the most significant benefits of using

guava leaves is their ability to stimulate hair growth.

The nutrients present in the leaves nourish the follicles, promoting faster and healthier hair growth.

Regular use can result in thicker and longer locks that are full of vitality.

STRENGTHENS HAIR ROOTS Weak hair roots are often the culprit behind hair thinning and breakage.

Guava leaves contain compounds that strengthen the hair roots, making them less prone to damage.

Stronger roots mean less hair fall and increased thickness over time.

PREVENTS HAIR LOSS Hair loss is a common concern for many

CONDITIONS THE SCALP A healthy scalp is essential for optimal hair growth, and guava leaves excel in this aspect as well.

The essential oils present in the leaves moisturize the scalp, preventing dryness and itchiness. A wellhydrated scalp promotes the growth of thick and strong hair.

ADDS SHINE AND LUSTER Who doesn’t want shiny, luscious locks? Guava leaves can help you achieve just that. Regular use of guava leaf extract or infusion can add a natural shine to your hair, making it look healthy and vibrant.

HOW TO USE GUAVA LEAVES FOR HAIR THICKNESS Now that you’re aware

GUAVA LEAF INFUSION 1. Boil a handful of guava leaves in water for about 20 minutes.

2. Let the mixture cool down and strain the leaves.

3. Use the guava leafinfused water as a final rinse after shampooing.

4. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing with plain water.

GUAVA LEAF HAIR MASK 1. Grind fresh guava leaves into a fine paste.

2. Mix the paste with a bit of water to make a smooth mask.

3. Apply the mask to your scalp and hair, focusing on the roots.

4. Leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour before washing it off with a mild shampoo.

GUAVA LEAF OIL 1. Crush a handful of guava leaves and mix them with coconut oil.

2. Heat the mixture on low flame for a few minutes.

3. Let it cool and strain out the leaves.

4. Massage the guava leaf-infused oil into your scalp and hair.

5. Leave it on overnight for best results, then wash it off with shampoo.

Breathwork and Meditation Workshop Invitation

Meditation and Brain Health Free session* - http://bit. ly/breathmd8 *Registration is mandatory * Date/Time: 6:45 PM Tue, 7th May Explore how breathing techniques and meditation contribute to brain function.

As we age, starting around 28, our brain undergoes a gradual decline, accelerating to a 5% decrease every 10 years by the age of 40.

In this workshop, we'll delve into methods to reverse or slow down this process.

Recent scientific research indicates that regular meditation can increase the amount of gray matter in the brain.

Experience breathing techniques and meditation practices that enhance cognition, memory, decision-making skills, concentration, emotion regulation, and creativity.

Recent scientific research indicates that regular meditation can increase the amount of gray matter in the brain.

We are excited to invite you to a special workshop featuring Senior Art of Living International Teacher, Dorota Niedzwiecka!

Topic: Meditate in May Date: May 8, 2024

Time: 7:30PM - 8:45PM (AEST) Location: St. Lucia Community Hall, 27 Guilfoyle St, St Lucia QLD 4067, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia, 4067 Join us for this 75-minute session to

learn powerful breathing techniques and experience guided meditation.

Discover the ease and effectiveness of meditation through the breath!

This workshop is perfect for beginners and anyone interested in exploring

meditation.

Registration Link: https://www.artofliving. org/au-en/program/17599 For enquiries, please contact Seema at 0432 695 535.

Reserve your spot today!

Traveling overseas? What vaccinations do you need before you go?

Are you heading overseas to see family, friends, or holiday? Make sure you are protected against infections that we don’t have here in Australia.

In 2024, Queensland Health has seen a number of travellers returning from overseas with vaccine preventable infections such as measles, typhoid fever, and hepatitis A. “Getting vaccinated is the best thing you can do to prevent these very nasty infections” said Dr Bhakti Vasant public health doctor from Queensland Health.

“Many people heading home to see family or friends don’t know that they might not be protected or don’t see a doctor before they go” Dr Vasant said.

Call: (07) 3192 5188

As there is no specific treatment for measles, vaccination is the best line of defence. If you are unsure if you are immune to measles, check with your doctor to see if you are eligible for a free measles vaccine.

Measles Measles is an extremely infectious disease that is spread through coughing, sneezing, or breathing.

Fever, rash, sore and watering eyes are other

symptoms.

In some cases, measles can cause inflammation of the brain, blindness, pneumonia, and even death.

As there is no specific treatment for measles,

vaccination is the best line of defence. If you are unsure if you are immune to measles, check with your doctor to see if you are eligible for a free measles vaccine.

Measles | Health and wellbeing | Queensland Government (www.qld.gov. au) Typhoid Another vaccine preventable disease is the gut infection, typhoid fever.

Typhoid causes fevers, headaches, belly pains, constipation, or diarrhoea, but can occasionally cause severe disease and death if left untreated.

Antibiotics can treat typhoid but there has been an increase in the numbers of antibiotic resistant

www.indiantimes.com.au

cases around the world particularly in the Indian Subcontinent.

You can prevent typhoid when travelling overseas by getting vaccinated every 3 years, regularly washing your hands and making sure the water and food you consume is safe and clean.

Typhoid and paratyphoid fever | Health and wellbeing | Queensland Government (www.qld.gov.au) Hepatitis A Like typhoid, hepatitis A is also spread by unsafe water, food or not washing hands, and it can be prevented through vaccination.

The hepatitis A infection commonly causes body aches, pains, stomach upset and inflammation of the

liver.

Liver inflammation can lead to yellow skin, eyes and dark urine which is known as jaundice.

Two doses of a hepatitis A vaccine will give you lifelong protection.

Hepatitis A | Health and wellbeing | Queensland Government (www.qld.gov. au) Before you go If you are planning on travelling overseas, make sure you see your doctor 6-8 weeks before and ask which vaccines you need. If you’re looking for more information visit the Smart traveller website.

Vaccinations and preventative health | Smartraveller

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2024 — 51

MAY 2024

MONTHLY Predictions Aries ( 21st March to 20th April )

Taurus ( 21st April to 21st May )

Gemini ( 22nd May to 21st June )

Success will not come easily in the beginning of this month. Saturn will encourage you to work with perseverance. You will be doing well in your work but some teething problems may disturb you due to the adverse impact of South Node. Everything is fixable and you will also see gradual improvement. Mercury this week will help you to follow your intuition. If you have doubts about the correctness of your decision, do not worry, think again about all the nuances. However, expect a good amount of income under the benefic influence of Venus. Follow your intuition in any kind of investment decisions that you need to make this time around. But some old money matters will concern you the most. You will constantly keep worrying about some commitments. It will be a time for more fun and fabulous encounter with your beloved. As far as maintaining the harmony in your love life and relationship, modesty will be the way to go now. This can be a perfect time to take a look at your love life and look for a compatible someone. Your physical health will be in good condition during this month. However, you will be worrying unnecessarily about your health and this worry may give you stress. Mars indicates that your energy levels may not be up to the mark. You need to take due care about nagging old health issue during the latter part of month. You may excel in your studies. Your planning and preparation for any exams will make you feel confident.

In the beginning of this month, the impact of North Node might cause some stress in your mind. Try to modulate your emotional responses to avoid unnecessary issues at your work place. If possible, increase the reserve of funds for some unforeseen expenses. The beginning of this month will bring a lot of changes in your life- in both: attitude and relationship. There will be some good opportunities coming your way as the month advances. The period around the mid of this month will be particularly good for the business person. There will be opportunities to earn extra money and the Venus seems pouring golden rain on you this time around. It also indicates that your love prospects look exciting and there are chances that you will find a fun partner and experience the intimacy you so wanted. It will go pretty well for your health and fitness. Mars during the latter half of month may bring with a smallscale conflict but some new information may come in toward you that will brighten the prospects for expansion. Mercury indicates that it will be a successful phase for money transactions. It will be a good time to conduct transactions with real estate or invest money in fixed assets or make large household purchases. The impact of South Node will lead to confusion and obstacles in relationship matters. And you can also not expect smooth sailing in your studies as well. Due to the favourable impact of Mercury, you will be in a good position to think about your career progress around the month end. However, it is better to wait and consolidate your position before making large expenses or investments.

As the month begins, the impact of Jupiter will be highly favorable for your career. It will help you to find higher position. If you are into business, you can expect a significant increase in sales and new deals with increased financial flow. Mars will help you to stimulate your love life and take relationship on a fresh new level. You are likely to feel some seasonal sickness though. As the month advances, you can do things with help of your associates at a much faster rate. You will have comfortable stability and you should not worry regarding money matters. But Mars indicates that things will be highly emotional in your love life and you and your partner won’t be able to make some important decisions around the mid of this month. During the latter half, the expansive impact of Jupiter will bring motivation and there are chances that you will be hired into a new position. You will feel more comfortable and secure with your financial situation. Venus will help you to be more open with your feelings towards the person you are interested in but express your feeling with some caution. North Node will have some adverse impact on your career around the month end. If you are in business, you should not hesitate to make a bold move. Don’t worry about your finances though as this phase can be a good lesson for you to work on your money management skills. If you were facing problems with your beloved, things will start becoming better. But the impact of South Node will make you see the difference between dreams and reality. Your health prospects will remain wonderful for you around the month end.

Cancer ( 22nd June to 22nd July )

Leo ( 23rd July to 22nd August )

Virgo ( 23rd August to 22nd September )

The impact of North Node in the beginning of this month may provoke you to do something out of the ordinary which can backfire. If you are doing business, it might be time to rethink how you do business more efficiently. Your income is likely to increase gradually.

The impact of North Node can change the equations of your relationship hence you must trade carefully.

You will continue to impress your mentors with your superlative performance in studies but as the month advances your social life might cause some problems. Also, there will be some challenges due to some unexpected financial issues caused by the impact of South Node around the middle of this month. Even if your attempts to express your feelings to your mate are not successful, they will teach you some good lessons for future, indicates Jupiter. Mercury will make you somewhat lazy and sluggish which might hamper your progress in studies. During the latter half, Saturn will demand you to act smartly with patience in your profession. Planetary aspects are to remain favorable for finances. You may however encounter some problems with your family members on some important financial matters. Under the influence of Venus during the latter half, sharing your feeling with your counterpart can pacify your intense feelings. If you are suffering from lifestyle diseases, you will need to be extra attentive. Jupiter will offer you stability in your love life and relationship matters, even if it may not be particularly very romantic phase. Jupiter will bring much better time for your career growth around the month end.

Jupiter will bring an excellent opportunity to excel in both your job or business in the beginning of this month. An obstacle or debt issue may be causing you some stress though. Take things in stride and rectify as needed. Venus indicates that romance and passion will dominate your mental horizon and likely to make you feel happy. If you are not yet in relationship, you will be endowed with charisma. The beginning of the month may not show much progress in education. As the month advances Saturn indicates a difficult phase and some hurdles would make you anxious in your career. Foreign connections may contribute to your growth particularly if you are in business. Mercury indicates that your financial condition improving gradually and you may find your friends and well-wishers extending support to your cause. There will be some disharmony and conflicts between you and your beloved ones due the adverse impact of South Node around the mid of this month. It can also cause some challenges, making your tasks challenging for academic growth. The flow of money will be stable during the latter half but you should be wary as problems might arise out of the blue due to the complex energy of North Node. Jupiter can bring favourable progress in the field of education. This phase may give birth to fatigue factors. There will be a feeling of laziness and stress. Give sufficient rest to your mind and physique both to keep yourself healthy. Jupiter may bring new work assignments of your choice as the month approaches its end.

As the month begins, Jupiter is likely to open new avenues to find higher elevation in your career. If you are doing business, you will be able to resolve some pending issues. It would be a period of fortune and auspicious happenings when you will be able to achieve your financial goals. The favourable impact of Venus will help you to strengthen your relationship and take it to the next level of pleasure and satisfaction. Mercury indicates that your stamina and fitness will improve significantly.

If you are doing business, the phase around mid of this month may not allow to implement ideas and policies effectively. Expenses may increase as well. And, you may take financial decisions, driven purely by the instinct which may at times may land you in troubles indicates the South Node. Also planetary positions may at times cause difference of opinions, especially regarding some family matters. During the latter half of this month, by identifying key areas of development through an effective analysis, you will be able to enhance your productivity. Venus indicates that if you manage your finances wisely, increase in your wealth is likely. North Node can lead to some disputes in relationship, where you are emotionally attached. You will be able to improve your knowledge by taking part in cultural and other activities. You may have much better fitness levels and you are likely to regain vitality. If you are doing business, the progress and activities for expansion of business shall pick up the pace around the month end. Don’t get frustrated due to some delays and difficulties caused by Saturn.

Libra ( 23rd September to 22nd October )

Scorpio ( 23rd October to 22nd November )

Sagittarius ( 23rd November to 21st December )

As the month begins, Jupiter will make you feel enthusiastic as there will be many positive developments in your professional life. This will be the time to make solid financial plan and implement it in stepwise manner to strengthen your financial status.

This could be a positive beginning for your love life.

Mercury will help you to also increase your knowledge and skills. As the month advances, Saturn is likely to test your skills and patience both. You cannot expect smooth sailing in your career. There will be steady improvement in your financial conditions around the mid of this month. This will be equally good phase to invest money and your old investments may also bring handsome rewards. Jupiter’s impact will remain favourable when it comes to your education. Minor health issues or some seasonal health problems may arise this time around. During the latter half, your associates may cause some issues in important projects, suggests the North Node. Some pressure may be felt on your financial status due to some old commitments. Planets will however favour you to get chance to express your emotions to the person you love. Your knowledge is going to increase and your skills will be more refined. Some uneasiness could lead to minor health issues and mood swings and too much of work-related stress or travelling may make you feel tired. Mercury is likely to bring some good opportunities for growth and gain around the month end. Mars indicates progressive time if you are doing business as you will be able to strike a big ticket deal. You can also upgrade to a better automobile or buy a second home, or invest in real estate.

Due to the strong support of Mars, you will be able to defeat the rivals, as well as get new and rewarding news in the workplace in the beginning of this month. There is a good time to start any new venture. However, Mercury may cause problems in your financial planning but you will gradually make progress and also stand to gain monetarily. Some personal problems seem to be creating a divide in your relationship due to the complex energy of South Node. Improving your habits and adopting a healthier lifestyle may help you to achieve your fitness goals. As the month advances, Saturn will make you able to get good results gradually. Jupiter is going to present varied options to increase your financial strength. Due to the restrictive influence of South Node, you may feel blocked in your love life around the mid of this month.

Wait for the best time for love and let the few days pass where you might feel confused. The planets are in your favour and you will also remain motivated to perform well in your studies but you are going to face emotional up and downs which may affect your health to an extent. Mars may help you to get success and will also get a good chance to expand the base of business during the latter half. It may bring some good earning opportunities and likely to empower your financial fortune. But you may experience see-saw situations in you love life. To remain fit and fine, you need to relax so that stress level remains under control. As the month approaches its end, Venus may bring some wonderful opportunity for love or dating.

The impact of North Node will bring stiff completion at your work place in the beginning of this month.

However, your inherent wisdom is likely to give you an edge. If you are doing business, path will most ideally be on a smooth sail. Gradually, you will be able to handle resources efficiently and likely to add on to your financial strength. Under the influence of Mars, disagreements may erupt because you will not be willing to ignore even minor irritations as readily as usual. Mercury could prove to be a blessing for your studies. It is a good time for appearing for any competitive examinations as well. For your health, extra caution should be followed. The impact of South Node may bring challenges in your way as the month advances but, the challenges may inspire you to step up your efforts and prove your talents. If you are doing business, you may be able to expand horizons and hence growth prospects may also improve gradually. Some old issues related to your investments or tax payments may come to surface around the mid of this month. Under the influence of Mars, some conflicts may arise in your relationship. Though the pace of progress may be slow during the latter half due to the impact of Saturn but long term planning and distancing yourself from short term gains is likely to help build for the future. Positively, you will be very sharp and clear mentally and that will help you to understand the dynamics of your relationship. There may be positive developments in your studies and you are likely to register major improvement in your strength and stamina during this phase.

Capricorn ( 22nd December to 20th January )

Aquarius ( 21st January to 18th February )

Pisces ( 19th February to 20th March )

As the month begins, Venus may bring some good opportunities for progress but you must not get carried away as, you will need to have to proper information and planning before making any major financial move.

You may develop a romantic relationship but, you will not be able to talk to your mate freely due to the impact of Saturn. In your studies, teachers, mentors and friends may be supportive. So, your performance may improve gradually. The favourable planets will help you handle your health in a better way. As you have ample support of Venus and Jupiter, a meaningful association with an influential person or higher up may be developed as the month advances, which may help you significantly.

However, there may be some disruptions due to unavoidable expenses but still it surely will keep your financial position solid and strong.

Around the mid of this month, the influence of Mars may at times push you to assert your views more aggressively. Avoid this or else you may not be able to take advantage of planetary favour. There may not be much of problems for you to manage your money. However, you shall incur expenses, on account of some social or religious ceremony.

During the latter half, your relationships may hit a rough patch as some serious issue may crop up due to the impact of South Node. Also, you may have to struggle more before getting desired results in studies.

You are likely to maintain normal health during the most of the part of this phase. Around the month end, you may not share an amiable relationship with your bosses, suggests Saturn.

Mercury in the beginning of this month indicates a favorable time for your career progression. You may get some important projects this week. Some of your old connections will be revived which will help you to quite an extent in your business. Saturn indicates that money flow will be slow. There may be some tricky issues to face in your personal life. Also, it does not look good times if you are pursuing higher education. The influence of stars this week for health is quite promising. As the month advances, there will be stupendous growth in your career. If you are doing business, you may have good time during the around the mid of this month due to support of Mars. The impact of stars also indicates strong cash flow.

The money will come from professional sources as well as from your old investments. But you may have dissatisfaction in your personal life.

There may be some fluctuation in your energy levels around the mid of this month. During the latter half, the impact of Mars and Venus is likely to be highly encouraging for career prospects. Venus foretells a splendid money flow throughout. Your social life will be activated and you are likely to enjoy some wonderful moments with your beloved one. But Mercury may make you somewhat dull and lethargic. So, you may have problems clearing the exams. The impact of Saturn may not be promising for your health as well. Jupiter around the end of this month indicates an auspicious period for professionals. Mercury will bring positive impact on your love life and relationship. If you are in committed relationship, you will be eager to take it to the next level.

In the beginning of this month, you will need to harness the options available to you. Mercury may make you aware of the opportunities coming your way. This phase may remain favourable if you are doing business as well. Chances of new projects are also expected. Mars may denote good times for your finances and investments too. But due to the impact of Mercury, insecurities or miscommunication may create some doubts regarding the future of your relationship. Jupiter indicates a wonderful time for your academic activities. As the month advances, North Node may bring some complicated issues at work place. If you are in business, sustained hard work is required in order to meet your goals.

Mercury will boost your financial status gradually and will also help you to reorganize your financial planning. Your attention will be brought by Venus to something that might have been missing or lacking in your relationship. Saturn demands special attention to your diet and eating habits. During the latter half, Jupiter will work effectively and extremely strong during this length of time. Here, you will have a clear vision of your financial future. Mercury will help you in your studies and you will sail through your projects effortlessly and successfully. Excessive work might result in physical pain and exhaustion, which is why you manage your routine. Around the month end, Mars could inspire you with some intelligent ideas to boost up your career. However, if you are in business, refrain from indulging in risky deals or projects.

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