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FICQ Diwali 2017 (no cost to you)

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Volume 14, Number 12 Saturday, October 14, 2017

Print Post Approved PP:424022 1724

As God is One, we respect all Religions

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• Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland held its annual Diwali festival lights at King George Square on Friday 6th October. The successful event attracted a huge crowd despite severe weather condition. Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk appreciates the celebration and has committed to an ongoing support for FICQ Diwali. Lord Mayor Graham Quirk was present as well despite very busy schedule, FICQ Diwali remains the main combined community celebration. Full report will be featured in the next issue.

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From the Publisher CAN you believe it, we are already into October, and time sure does fly when you are having fun. Let me take this opportunity to wish everyone the very best for upcoming Diwali. Let us not forget the true essence of Diwali, which seems to get lost in all the festivities. It is a time of celebration yes, but it is also a time of giving to the less fortunate, it is a time of new beginnings, traditionally merchants closed their books, wrote off any bad debts and stared fresh, now shouldn’t we be doing the same, discard any differences and start fresh. Diwali is also a time for spring cleaning, homes are cleaned, new clothes are worn and some sort of investment is made, gifts are given to the needy. All of the above also need to be done apart from the celebrations.

There are religious and cultural aspects of Diwali, many public celebrations cover cultural aspects, hence food stall etc serves non veg dishes etc. The religious aspect involves Laxmi poojan, aarathi havan etc. these are mainly conducted at temples and at places of residence. India is diverse and secular, Diwali as a celebration encompasses a wide crosssection of community. There has been some commentary on this topic and it is now widely accepted that public multicultural celebration of Diwali will need to cater for all members of our diverse community. Organisers have to be aware of the pure cultural and religious aspects.

I was privileged to be a presenter at the recent cultural awareness symposium at university of Queensland. We presented to graduating medical students of University of Queensland.

These days cross cultural awareness is so vital, Queensland Police Service and other public service divisions are all embracing cultural awareness training as part of induction.

The recent advertisement showing Lord Ganesha in and advertisements promoting meat (Lamb) demonstrated the importance of such awareness. The advertisement was ill conceived and Indian community throughout Australia condemned the advertisement, many

protests were organised. Our community was informed at the advertisement fell within the advertisement guidelines, well then the guidelines need to be changed, simple as that.

I must congratulate many organisations that organised and celebrated Diwali on large scale this year, our community is growing and so is the attendance at Diwali celebrations. Of course, FICQ’s Diwali remains the main Diwali function recognised at all levels. Brisbane has become a city of “Melas” (festival and fairs), every week there is a Mela or two, our community loves to celebrate, and the pleasing thing is to see the great participation not only from our community but the wider community. My personal observation is that the organisation standard of events is forever improving; new players entering the scene have demonstrated excellent organisational skills. In the ever changing environment there is no place for complacency, the message is clear move with the times or be left behind.

I would like to wish the entire finalists for 2017 IABCA all the best for the night of nights at Brisbane City Hall. I have been honoured to be part of the expert panel, it has been a tough process, as we had to leave aside all prejudgements and judge on the merits based on a very just points scoring system. I really enjoyed the process, interacting with the high calibre members of the expert panel, the reasoning, and decision making process, agreeing to disagree in a civilised manner.

I would like to pen off now, once again wishing each and every one of you all the very best for Diwali 2017, may Ganesha remove all obstacles from your lives, and may Maa laxmi shower her prosperous blessings of good wealth on all, please spare a thought for the needy and less fortunate while we immerse ourselves in festivities, lets spring clean our hearts and minds and start afresh and welcome new opportunities with renewed energy.

Until next month happy reading Umesh Chandra Until next Month Happy Reading, Umesh Chandra

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1. IMPACT ON SCHOOLS If same-sex marriage becomes law, parents will not have a leg to stand on if they don’t want their kids taught radical sex education, and gender ideologies.

Saying ‘yes’ to same-sex marriage means saying ‘no’ to parents’ rights.

2. IMPACT ON FREE SPEECH This has already happened overseas where service providers who have declined to participate in same-sex weddings have been taken to court, lost their business and even been told their beliefs about marriage are illegal.

Saying ‘yes’ to same-sex marriage means saying ‘no’ to freedom of speech.

3. IMPACT ON RELIGION In the UK, a private Jewish primary school is now facing closure because the VFKRRO UHIXVHV WR WHDFK WKH JRYHUQPHQW PDQGDWHG JHQGHU ÁXLGLW\ FXUULFXOXP Saying ‘yes’ to same-sex marriage means saying ‘no’ to religious freedom.

IT’S OK TO VOTE NO For more information on how changing the marriage law will affect you and your family, go to:

coalitionformarriage.com.au

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017 — 3

Bengali Society of Queensland’s Durga Puja

BENGALI Society of Queensland held their annual pooja at Aspley State School from 29th September till 1st October. Puja Preparation began on the evening of 29th, Saptami and ashtami pujo and cultural evening took place on 30th September, and the Navami Pujo and Dasami Pujo took place on the morning of 1st October, while Dhunuchi Naach and Aziz Popat in the evening of 1st October finished off the celebrations.

“We await the arrival of Maa Durga every year with bated breath. The celebration of Durga puja has a special significance to Bengalis all over the world and reminds us of the eternal message of victory of good over evil, light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance” said President Amit Basu.

Qld Premier Hon Annastacia Palaszczuk MP said “Since 1998, the Bengali Society of Queensland has served Brisbane’s Bengali community, supporting new residents, preserving ancient traditions and promoting religious and cultural harmony.” She further said “The festivals colourful program featuring dance, music and performance is a terrific way to showcase the Indian subcontinent’s rich cultural tapestry.”

Brisbane Lord Mayor Cnr Graham Quirk said, “Durga Puja is a significant event in the Hindu Calender and represents the victory of goddess Durga over evil. These celebrations feature a mix of cultural and religious activities, including music, dancing and art, and the opportunity to enjoy traditional foods.

Bengali Society of Queensland do a wonderful job organising Durga Puja celebrations, which certainly contribute to our city’s vibrant, multicultural community.”

4 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017

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APSQ and QVCC fundraising event Grand Musical Evening ARYA Pratinidhi Sabha of Qld and Queensland Vedic Cultural Centre hosted a Musical Evening at Runcorn State School on Saturday the 9th of September. Brisbaneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own and very talented artist provided entertainment for the evening. The hall was packed and it was great to see such a large involvement from the community.

The President of the Sabha and Chairman of Queensland Vedic Cultural Centre Mr Jitendra Deo warmly welcomed all and acknowledged the various organisations presidents and community leaders who were present and thanked all for supporting this fundraising event.

Audiences were entertained by our talented artists. This included vocalists; Rajendra, Charu, Suhas, Ashwini, Anup, Mithun, Binny, Bondita, Rugved. They were accompanied by Subrato on percussion, assisted by

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Manpreet. Pankaj on Tabla, Vijendra on Guitar, Sharad on Keyboard and Raghu assisting on Harmonium.

The members all contributed towards the preparation of food, drinks and seating.

Members were also selling sweets and tea to assist the fundraising process. Sumptuous dinner was served after the program. Thanks to members of the Arya Prathinidhi Sabha of Queensland for coordinating dinner preparation.

We appreciated the efforts of all artists and would like to congratulate them on their performances. The audience was mesmerised by the beautifully executed songs. Many thanks to all artists. A special thanks to all members who sold tickets and those who attended the evening. In conjunction to this, a very big thanks to Sandeep Kumar for coordinating the event.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 5

Brisbane Diwali Melas....

• Diwali at Rocklea Showgrounds.

DIWALI is known to be a widely celebrated festival internationally; in the case of Brisbane this year has seen the largest number of public Diwali Celebrations, From Zillmere to Tingalpa to Rocklea and Gold Coast. The amazing fact is that all of the celebrations

have attracted a good number of patrons. The essence of Diwali on a broader scale is prevalent, the awareness within the wider is growing, and everyone is now familiar with word Diwali.

FICQ’s Diwali in King George Square is

well recognised as the main celebration of the combined community, while other celebrations have been organised by individual organisation and some for profit groups who have charged entry fees.

Diwali Blast Mela was held on 24th Septem-

ber at Tingalpa Grounds and included live performance by Amrit Maan, Jasmine Sandlas and Harjot. Main organisers were Sanal, Raj Dhadrian, Parmeet, Jazdeep, Manmohan Randhawa and Jazdeep. The event attracted a large audience.

Continued page 8

Open letter to international students From Natalie James, the Fair Work Ombudsman

CA17-750111-05-2854 © 2017 Brisbane City Council

MEET OUR EAT SAFE STARS Goc Viet Inala are leading the way in food safety, with a prized four star Eat Safe rating. Brisbane City Council’s Eat Safe program provides incentives to food businesses that achieve a three star or higher rating including reduced annual fees, additional marketing resources and the ability to show customers that your restaurant adheres to the highest food safety standards.

For more information on Eat Safe visit brisbane.qld.gov.au and search ‘Eat Safe’ or phone 3403 8888.

D

protections even if you’re in breach of your visa

same workplace rights as all other workers in Australia?

conditions.

o you know that international students have the

My name is Natalie James, and I am the Fair Work Ombudsman. The Office of the Fair Work Ombudsman

“ International students have the same rights as all workers in Australia.”

is a government agency that can provide free help to international students working in Australia.

You may have a part-time or casual job while you study in Australia. Depending on the job, most people should

We help international students like you every

be paid at least $18.29/hour; and over $22.86/hour if

day. So call our Infoline on 13 13 94 or call 13 14

you are a casual employee. You may be entitled to even

50 for our Translating and Interpreting Service.

more than this depending on the industry you work in,

If you have an issue at work but don’t want to

or if penalty rates apply to your shifts. If you need help

tell us who you are, you can tell us anonymously

checking your pay rate, or if you have concerns with your

through our website in English or in one of

hours of work, please contact us or use our pay calculator

16 other languages at www.fairwork.gov.au/

at www.fairwork.gov.au/PACT.

inlanguageanonymousreport.

I encourage you to visit our website www.fairwork.gov.au

Protections exist for all workers and you can’t be

to get informed and, if you are unsure, seek our help. We

paid below the minimum pay rates.

have information about work entitlements in multiple

Please seek our help if you think something doesn’t

languages. We also have an App called ‘Record My Hours’

seem right.

for your smartphone that records your hours of work for you. It’s available for both Apple and Android phones.

If there’s a problem with your pay or if other issues arise at your work, I encourage you to speak to us. Under an arrangement with the Department of Immigration and

Natalie James The Fair Work Ombudsman

Border Protection and my agency we can offer you some

Language help The Fair Work Ombudsman is on social media, please follow us on: facebook.com/fairwork.gov.au

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Brisbane Diwali Melas....

• Photo’s SP 0425 414 200

Continued from page 6

On September 17th Brisbane Diwali 2 festival was organised the well known team of Kamar Bak, Rocky Bhullar and Sun e Arora, this event was at Rocklea showgrounds, once again a very large crowd attended the event.

New players in the arena Indian Cultural & Sports Club Incorporated did a wonderful job arranging their first public Diwali celebration, the organising committee headed by Paviter Kumar Noori left no stone unturned when it came to attention to detail, high class sound, cutting edge video technology with big screen video mixes and the lot. This is what SBS had to say; For the people of Indian descent, it’s that time of the year when they can feel the festivity in the air and the anticipation builds up in the run-up to their biggest festival- Diwali.

But when it comes to celebrating Diwali, they are not alone. People from a wide cross-section of society join in the celebrations spread across this month in Australia to enjoy the good

8 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017

food, colourful lights and Bollywood song and dance.

The Diwali fever struck the Queensland Police last weekend who put their “heart and soul” to demonstrate their “Community Policing” skills at a Diwali event in Brisbane on Saturday.

Members of the police force were grooving to the Indian music- from Bhangra to Lungi dance, they did everything and an enthralled audience couldn’t stop applauding their effort in a surprise performance.

Jagdeep Singh, the President of Indian Cultural and Sports club said all the police officers who participated showed a keen interest in their act.

“Some of them had never danced in • Photo their life before this. But they were SP 0425 414 200 very dedicated and never missed even a single training session,” he told SBS Punjabi.

He said all the officers were quick learners and were trained by young members of the Indian community.

The weekend of 14th and 15th October will see a record number of Diwali celebration, we will bring to you all the reports in the next issue.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 9

Brisbane Rotarians Grand Gala Fundraiser night Courtesy Abdul & Madhuri Azam THE Rotary Club of Brisbane International (RCBI) hosted its inaugural Bollywood Ball fundraiser night on the evening of 9th September at the Chinese Sacred Heart Centre in Runcorn and it was truly a grand affair. The tone of the evening was already set a week prior when the event was declared a sell-out

by RCBI President, Mr Raj Padarath. This in itself was a remarkable feat considering there were a number of other functions by other organisations on the same night. Having a sellout function a week out was no doubt a tremendous achievement.

A black tie/dress fused with a Bollywood theme saw patron’s turnout in vibrant colours. The venue was elegantly setup and decorated by RCBI members, a number of who had also been practising hard for some of the performances on the night. The hard work of all club members leading up to and on the night was indeed commendable.

RCBI’s strategic goals are to assist with medical projects in Fiji and funds raised through this year’s Bollywood Ball had already been earmarked to send a container load of medical supplies to Fiji before the end of the year.

The night kicked off with a sensational dance performance by a number of RCBI boys on a Bollywood medley which certainly got the crowd cheering. Enter our MC extraordinaire, Mr Greg Forster, also a Rotarian from Ipswich who mesmerised the crowd like no other. Present amongst our esteemed

guests were the District Governor Mr Elwyn Hodges together with his wife Allison and our very own Charter President and current District Governor Elect, Mr Jitendra Prasad and his wife Nirmala.

The keynote speaker for the evening was our fellow Rotarian, Dr Sandhir Prasad, a renowned Cardiologist based in Brisbane. Dr Prasad spoke about the importance of heart health and highlighted the alarming statistics of heart disease related deaths in our homeland of Fiji. According to Dr Prasad, Fiji has one of the highest per capita heart disease related death rates in the world. Dr Prasad’s key note address was a follow on from an eye opening presentation on Heart Health in Fiji

by Dr Vijay Kapadia, another renowned cardiologist based on the Gold Coast at RCBI’s Changeover Dinner in July.

RCBI President, Mr Raj Padarath who was heavily involved with coordinating this signature fundraising event also addressed all guests and highlighted the importance of the work done by Rotarians all around the world

and the need to engage more like minded and like hearted people to assist us in this cause.

The District Governor Elect, Mr Jitendra Prasad who was RCBI’s Charter President and currently the immediate Past President of the club, spoke about the importance of our people behind the scenes whose tireless efforts have made RCBI a successful young club that it is today and he shared his passion and excitement on leading Rotary District 9630 in 2018-19.

Guests were kept well entertained by several fabulous dance performances on popular Bollywood numbers featuring our own RCBI ladies and other performers. DJ Desi kept the music pumping and the dance floor was soon opened for everyone to dance their night away.

If this evenings success is anything to go by, RBCI is confident that its signature annual fundraising event will only get bigger and better with the ongoing support of its members and the wider community.

If you are interested in becoming part of this wonderful organisation, please do not hesitate to contact us on 0434 023 240 or 0403 301 337.

Alternatively, you can visit our Facebook page, Rotary Club of Brisbane International and send us a private message via Messenger.

National Hindu conference highlights the contribution of Hindus to Australian society 6th AUSTRALIAN National Hindu Conference with the theme ‘Strengthening Communities – Stronger Australia’ was highly praised by the Governor of South Australia His Excellency Hieu Van Le in his opening remark. In his message he said, ‘Here in South Australia, our Hindu community makes a major contribution to our society’.

Premier of South Australia Hon Jay Weatherill provided a message that ‘The event will also provide an insight into the Hindu communities of South Australia – communities that enrich our State by generously sharing their cultural gifts with fellow citizens’.

The Minister for Multicultural Affairs Hon Zoe Bettison also praised ‘VHP Australia’s social programs for those in need, not to mention the tireless work of the volunteers who so readily give up their time to strengthen our community’.

The President of the Legislative Council of South Australia The Hon Russell Wortley MLC applauded Vishva Hindu Parishad for organising the conference and thanked the Hindu community leaders for ‘strengthening the multicultural fabric of Australia by sharing their faith, celebrating their traditions, supporting those in need, guiding young people and promoting religious harmony’.

National President of Vishva Hindu Parishad of Australia Shri R. Subramanian JP welcomed the dignitaries and Smt. Neha Shing-

hal President of VHP South Australia Western Australia shared the range of services delivered to the wider Australian community

by VHP volunteers.

Shri Rajendra Pandey, President of VHP South Australia in his key note address, shared the contribution of Hindu Australians and noted that number of Hindu Australians holding a higher and post-graduate qualification is seven times the Australian average.

He noted that although Hindus constitute just 1.9% of the Australian population; 2.4% of Australian professionals are Hindus and 25% of Hindus earn more than $52,000 as compared to 20% for rest of Australia.

He called upon the Hindu community in Australia to take the next step from being a sub set of the multicultural community celebrating their festivals to a community that takes pride in being the most contributing migrant community in Australia. He also proposed that the Hindu community should set key performance indicators such as paying 5% more per capita income tax in the next five years and called upon the Hindu entrepreneurs to employ two additional staff in South Australia in the next 12 months.

This, according to him, is the Dharmic way for Hindus to show gratitude towards the land they live on and thus play an important role in creating a Stronger Australia and a prosperous South Australia.

10 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017

Swami Vigyananand, International Coordinator and Joint General Secretary VHP Bharat chaired the session ‘Collaboration among Hindu Organisations Temples and Associations’. During his address, he explained the purpose of HOTA (Hindu Organisations Temples and Associations) and appealed to more than 40 organisations, associations and temples attending, to work together.

He emphasised that while Hindus come to Australia from many different countries and hold many geopolitical, linguistic, denominational, and sectional identities, the current time demands that we must forge one common identity – a Hindu Australian identity.

He formally launched the Hindu Organisations Temples and Associations Forum (HOTA Forum) in South Australia, which will be hosted by VHP South Australia in 2018 and Shirdi Sai Sansthan in the year 2019. Fifteen other organisations have already expressed interest to host the forums in future.

Eminent community members originating from eight different countries were brought together by VHP in a panel discussion to deliberate on ideas for bringing Hindus from different countries together and the panel unanimously concluded that HOTA Forum had the potential to bridge the existing gap.

In addition to the HOTA Forum, the confer-

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ence saw the launch of two other VHP divisions in South Australia; Vedic and Cultural Centre of Australia (VCCA) and Hindu Women Forum.

VCCA will be focussing on running activities to preserve and propagate Vedic Chanting, which has been listed by UNESCO as World’s intangible cultural heritage and also offering welfare activities, support and professional development opportunities for priests and temples in South Australia.

Hindu Women Forum will provide encouragement and support for the development of leadership qualities within Hindu women from diverse backgrounds, perspectives and professions so that they can offer support to each other in all aspects of human endeavour including encouraging those desirous of achieving leadership positions in the community organisations or corporate world they work in.

The conference provided a platform to more than 40 community organisations, temples, and associations attending the conference to share their vision, mission and activities. All these organisations also shared their ideas on how the Hindu community could work unitedly to strengthen their communities and make Australia stronger.

For more information visit www.vhpsa.org.au and www.vhp.org.au Call 07 3865 6533

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 11

Media launch of Power of Peace Festival BRISBANE Indian Times and Australian Indian Radio attended the media Launch of Power of Peace Festival at Roma Street Parkland on 2nd October 2017. Akashika Mohla represented Australian Indian Radio while Umesh Chandra represented Brisbane Indian Times.

First of all Swami Atmeshananda of Vedanta Centre of Sydney - Brisbane Chapter told Akashika that “Mahatma Gandhi not only taught us about non violence but he also taught as about unity, it is very important today that we have unity in our thoughts, in our deeds, in our words.”

Swami Ji offered the opening prayers and also the shanti path.

Secondly Akashika interviewed Nik Senapati, the President of AIBC Qld, and he told Akashika “on 29th of October we are celebrat-

12 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017

ing the Global Mahatma Gandhi and bringing Ipswich and Brisbane celebration of Global Mahatma Gandhi which will be about peace,

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inclusion and non violence, the whole of Australian community is invited to these celebrations.”

Lastly Akashika interviewed Veena Merz project director of Power of Peace Festival, Veena gave an overview of the festival program, “the festival will start at Robelle Domain, Springfield at 8:30am, after the inauguration at Mahatma Gandhi inspirational bridge everyone will walk to the amphitheatre in Robelle Domain parkland, where the celebrations will begin with a hundred strong choirs. A parade will then move from Robelle Domain to Springfield station, this parade will be the iconic feature of the festival. From

Springfield station there will be a train to Roma Street Parklands.”

Akashika thanked Veena and said that GOPIO Qld, Brisbane Indian Times and Australian Indian Radio were proud supporters of the festival. The live recording of the interviews went to AIR on Australian Indian Radio and Radio 4EB.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 13

An Evening of Indian Classical Dance BRISBANE has become a hub of classical Indian music and dance; there have been many classical concerts to the delight of the music lovers. Students of Eswaralaya Kalaikoodam under the tutelage of Smt. Manga Surendran presented their Bharatanatyam Concert on 17th September at St John’s Anglican College, in Forest Lake.

The popular hall was full to capacity with music lovers, it was pleasing to see a professionally managed stage program with excellent sound and lighting. Guru Smt Manga Surendran is much disciplined, hence the program ran on time, one of the dance students commented that Guru Smt. Manga Surendran still observed the age old tradition of maintaining high standards and seeking blessing before the performance.

There was no door sales of tickets, all tickets were presold and well managed with food vouchers for the food served in the interval.

Presentation slides displayed the names of the participants of the dances and sponsors.

Smt Manga Surendran presented plagues to all participating students

Cartoon Corner

14 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017

New Access program of Beyond Blue launched By Merwyn

beyondblue launched a new free mental health support program, specifically developed to support refugees and migrants, in the Brisbane South area.

This program called New Access is completely free to use, and has been designed especially for people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds and multicultural groups.

It provides people with six weeks of private mental health coaching and will be run by trained mental health professionals from refugee and CALD backgrounds, and interpreters are available also.

New Access was officially launched on Tuesday, October 3 by Queensland Senator Claire Moore (pictured above). The launch ceremony was attended by many multicultural community leaders and service providers It is funded by the Brisbane South Primary Health Network and delivered by staff at Acacia Ridge Community Support Inc. Brisbane South has one of the largest culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities in Queensland. More than 140,000

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residents in this region were born in non-English speaking countries and between 2014 and 2016, over 1800 refugees – mainly from African and Middle Eastern countries – settled here.

We know that language and cultural barriers, as well as stigma and cost often prevent people from CALD backgrounds from seeking mental health support.

New Access circumnavigates all of these barriers and makes it easier for people to access the support they need before they run into more serious mental health issues down the track.

The program has the potential to help thousands of vulnerable people in Brisbane South, particularly migrants and refugees who are experiencing isolation, anxiety, loneliness, depression and stress. It would be beneficial to people who have experienced trauma, isolation and separation from family, new parents, seniors, students and the unemployed.

The six-week coaching program supports people going through a difficult time and gives them the skills to manage their mental health in the future.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 15

Ganesha Habba – first successful event Positive Partnerships Launches

by Kannada Sangha Queensland (KSQ) Multicultural Resources at Asia Executive Committee 2017-2018 Pacific Autism Conference 2017

By Ms Shilpa Aswal PRO, Kannada Sangha Qld Inc

KANNADA Sangha Queensland (KSQ) Executive Committee 2017-2018 organised its first event at Griffith University’s Multifaith Center. The event was celebrated on 2nd of September 2017, with overwhelming participation and response from the KSQ community. The event showcased and upheld how Ganesha festival was celebrated in Karnataka.

Our event started with Mr Ravi Bhat, our priest who performed pooja to Lord Ganesha which was well decorated by our Executive committee and their family members. It was then followed by the kids’ performances of song, instrument, skit and Storytelling on Lord Ganesha.

Some of the dignitaries and special guests who attended the event were Mr Duncan Pegg - Stretton Ward, Mr Anthony Shorten Board Member for United Asia Lions Club, Ms Louise Moeller Vice President & Secretary- German Australian Community of Queensland and Ms Reena Augustine Director - Red Carpet Functions, who humbly accepted our invitation in amidst of their busy schedules to just experience the vibrant festivity of Karnataka.

Mr Duncan Pegg also gave an inspiring speech on how important it is to have such cultural celebrations when people reside in another country. This was one of the best examples in a multicultural country like Australia, that showed how people from diverse backgrounds come together to understand

and appreciate each other’s culture.

Ms Louise Moller’s words on her Facebook timeline conveyed a valuable message to the wider community emphasising the benefit of community engagement, which said “So honoured to join the Kannada Sangha QLD community in celebrating Ganesha Habba. I encourage EVERYONE to get out and experience the different cultures, religions and festivals in Brisbane. Go outside your normal sphere and comfort zone. You will be rewarded with unforgettable experiences and people, and may make life-changing connections” Ms Louise post also said “So special and heart-warming to see how proud these children are! Presenting them Certificates of Appreciation for their performances at the Ganesha Habba festival was a true honour and delight. Wonderful to see the younger generation so active within their cultural celebrations!”

The event was then concluded with the Aarati by KSQ community members and a delicious veggie dinner served by Mr Naveen Gowda. Our special thanks to Griffith University for providing the venue and to the EC committee family members and volunteers who stayed back to assist the team at the venue.

Once again Kannada Sangha Queensland would like to thank all the participants for making this event a memorable one.

For more photos of the celebration please visit our facebook page www.facebook.com/kannadasangaqld/

16 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017

POSITIVE Partnerships proudly launched a series of multicultural resources at the Asia Pacific Autism Conference 2017 (APAC 2017) held at the Sydney International Convention Centre from 7-9 September. The resources have been developed to both raise awareness of autism among culturally and linguistically diverse communities and provide support to these communities. The resources are available in ten languages: Chinese Simplified, Chinese Traditional, Arabic, Greek, Hindi, Korean, Nepali, Thai, Turkish, and Vietnamese.

APAC17 brings together people on the autism spectrum and their family members, service providers, practitioners, researchers and policy makers as one community to work towards realising the potential of people on the autism spectrum. The conference has attracted over 1,200 delegates from more than 28 countries across Europe, America, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, as well as Australia and New Zealand.

“We are thrilled to be launching our multicultural resources at this year’s APAC17 in front of such a global audience. These are a range of resources that have been translated to assist with conversations and shared planning to support families of children with diverse learning needs, and their communities,” said Jacqui Borland National Director, Positive Partnerships.

Turkish born Dr. Selim Pullu was one of the 21 world renowned keynote speakers, presenting ‘Our Journey with Autism: Works and Experiences’, which shares his personal experiences of learning to understand and work with his son’s autism. Dr. Pullu has been instrumental to Positive Partnership’s work, helping to develop resources for culturally and linguistically diverse communities, and to break down cultural barriers by beginning conversations to engage other fathers.

“I remember when my wife and I were desperately seeking help for my son with Autism while there was almost nothing available.

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Now I’m proud and honoured to have the opportunity to contribute through Positive Partnerships so that all people have access to resources and assistance, no matter their background” expressed Dr. Pullu.

The multicultural resources produced by Positive Partnerships include the following information: * ‘What is Autism’ Fact Sheet * Visual Planning Matrix * Guide to Who Can Help * Guide to Using Visual Supports * Myths and Facts about Autism * ‘A Family Journey’ Animation * Family Stories To view and download, please visit: http://www.positivepartnerships.com.au/ multicultural-resources Inaugurated in 2009, the Asia Pacific Autism Conference is a biennial event. Themed ‘Growing with Autism’, this 5th three-day APAC conference aims to reflect the shift in the field looking beyond the early childhood and school years to focus on the whole lifespan for people on the spectrum.

About Positive Partnerships

Positive Partnerships is a national project, funded by the Australian Government Department of Education and Training through the Helping Children with Autism package. Delivered by Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) – Australia’s largest service provider for people on the autism spectrum - Positive Partnerships aims to improve the educational outcomes of school-aged students on the autism spectrum. To learn more, please visit http://www.positivepartnerships.com.au/

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Graduate Temporary 485 Visas - Hany Tips

ALTHOUGH most Graduate Temporary (485) Visa applications seem straightforward, there are some important pitfalls to watch out for when lodging a Graduate Temporary visa application. We briefly touch upon these issues and welcome any queries that you may have.

Timing is a critical factor in lodging a Graduate Temporary 485 Visa, as these must be lodged within 6 months of course completion. 6 months of course completion is not the graduation date but rather the date the results were declared and course requirements were completed.

Course Duration is equally important when lodging a Graduate Temporary 485 Visa, your course must be registered for at least 92 weeks and 16 calendar months. Talk to us about how these dates are calculated and the accurate source of these dates.

Australian Federal Police Clearance is a mandatory requirement to be completed before lodging a Graduate Temporary 485 Visa, police clearance must be current, must have been applied before lodgement and all applicants 16 years or older should be part of the application.

English Language Testing is crucial when lodging a Graduate Temporary 485 Visa, your test must have been attempted prior to lodgement of your application, or you will risk the refusal of your application. Students may choose any of the prescribed English Language Test prior to lodging their applications.

Health Cover is a must for the Graduate Temporary 485 Visa application, you must have a valid cover on lodgement, must maintain it during the processing stage.

Accurate documentation is crucial when lodging a Graduate Temporary 485 Visa, this includes a letter of completion from the university confirming exact dates of study.

Applicants must apply for the correct stream of application, and choose carefully between

Graduate Work Stream and Post Study Work Stream, each has its own benefits and risk.

Talk to us to get more information and develop a better understanding of what is more suitable to your circumstances.

Australian qualifications that are used to lodge the Graduate Temporary 485 Visa must be closely related and must be completed as part of 2 year study.

Skills Assessment must have been attempted before you lodge an application for Graduate Temporary 485 Visa.

Finally applicants must check if they have a Section 48 Bar on them prior to lodging an application for Graduate Temporary 485 Visa. Section 48 is a complex issue and we recommend that clients contact us to determine their individual circumstances.

We wish to remind readers that the first consultation with Migration Guru is free of charge. Migration Guru has assisted a vast number of clients for more than 14 years. We have more than 50 years of collective experience in the industry and a team of Migration Agents / Lawyers. With our vast experience and skills, we are able to provide accurate migration or legal advice based on our clients’ personal circumstances.

Our team may be contacted by via email or call 07 3036 3800. Follow us on Facebook for all the updates to Migration Law https://www.facebook.com/migrationguru/ Migration Guru Pty Ltd, Level 18, 127 Creek Street, Brisbane, QLD. Phone: 07 3036 3800 MARN 0324607, 1175591, 1382609, 1386041, 1683052 & 1466522. www.migrationguru.com.au Disclaimer:- The above article constitutes only generic information on migration issues, and does not constitute specific migration advice to any entity or individual.

ACS Professional Year • Accredited by Australian Computer Society • Learn in Corporate Training Rooms • Great Student Amenities • High Quality Digital Learning Resources • Professional High Quality Experienced Trainers • Industry Standard Internship Placement • Monthly Intake • Easy payment plan • CBD Location – Close to Central Station • May be eligible for migration points towards permanent residence in Australia Program structure

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To qualify for the ACS Professional Year Program, you must have: - Completed an undergraduate or postgraduate award in Australia in ICT - Hold or applied for a 485 visa (either stream) - IELTS Score of 6 overall and no band less than 5

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017 — 17

GOPIO Qld news...

GOPIO Queensland organises Gandhi Jayanti

ANNUAL Gandhi Jayanti by GOPIO Queensland was held on 2nd October at Roma

Street Parkland. With predicted rain GOPIO committee had to arrange for marquees at the

GOPIO Queensland Valedictory Dinner

last minute. Councillor Angela Owen lent three Marquees and two marquees were brought in by GOPIO Qld members.

The event was held in Palm court between gate 5 and six close to Gandhi ji Statue, the media launch of Power of Peace Festival took place at Gandhi ji statue, following which everyone moved up to Palm court for Gandhi Jayanti Vikas Sinha, Vice President of GOPIO Qld called to order at 10:30am and invited GOPIO Queensland President Usha Chandra for her welcome address. Usha Chandra welcomed everyone to Gandhi Jayanti and she thanked everyone for braving the weather to be present on the significant occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, an annual event of GOPIO Queensland.

Mrs Archana Singh Honorary Counsel for India in Queensland addressed the gathering and spoke on Gandhi Jis message; she thanked GOPIO Queensland for organising the annual event every year.

GOPIO Queensland Patron, Dr Maha Sinnathamby delivered a very uplifting motivational speech reflecting the values the Gandhi ji lived by, and the relevance of these values in the current environment Kavita Khullar recited a thought provoking poetry delivered with conviction. Umesh Chandra founder president of GOPIO Queensland and life member GOPIO International spoke on GOPIO being the largest global organisation representing the Indian Diaspora Pravinita Singh Pillay delivered a pepped voted of thanks, Hemant Naik and Usha Chivakula sand Gandhi Jis favourite Bhajans. Everyone was invited to offer floral tribute to Gandhi Ji. The celebration concluded with light refreshments for all, the function was supported by FICQ, AIBC, Gandhi Memorial Committee, Queensland Multicultural Coun-

cil, Power of Peace festival amongst others.

High commissioner His Excellency Dr Gondane in a similar celebration held in Canberra, urged those assembled to celebrate the Mahatma’s birthday by not just paying tribute to him, but by more widely disseminating his noble thoughts and ideals while committing to serving the larger cause of humanity.

He said that Mahatma Gandhi advocated peace and non-violence during a period which was mired by brutalities, gross inequalities on colonized societies and two World Wars. The United Nations have rightly declared the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi as “International Day of Non-violence”. It was Gandhiji’s conviction that nothing enduring can be built on violence. Mahatma Gandhi gave stress on moral education, community work and struggle against political and social oppression.

GOPIO Queensland holds an annual thanks giving dinner for all the volunteers who assist with India Day Fair. The valedictory function was held at Delights of Paradise restaurant. The volunteers are presented with certificates of appreciation.

The event is fun filled with the inevitable male verses female antakshari, still trying to work out who the winner was. Kavita Khullar recited well received poetry. The volunteers and supporters (mainly students) get a meal voucher on the day and certificate of appreciation to show that they volunteered at this event, the certificate assists them seeking future employment.

GOPIO Queensland President, Mrs Usha Chandra thanked her committee, stall holders, performers, MC’s and above all the sponsors for making India Day Fair 2017 a huge success.

Next year’s India Day Fair will be held on Saturday 18th August.

Photo’s Brian Sullivan.

18 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017

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‘Laddoos for Ganesha not lamb’ FICQ leads Community Together protest against MLA Lamb ad ON Friday, 22 September 2017, the Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) Inc. led a protest organised by Community Together against the Meat and Livestock (MLA) advertisement depicting the Hindu god Ganesh eating lamb. The peaceful protest at Speaker’s Corner was organised outside the Queensland Parliament. It was attended by a large number of community leaders from all faiths who spoke out against the lack of respect for people’s religious beliefs to promote commercial concerns (consumption of lamb) by MLA. Non-speaking attendees who came to show support included Mrs Archana Singh, Honorary Consul of India and Mr Garry Page, CEO of the Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland.

Community Together members displayed many placards with catchy slogans like ‘Laddu for Ganesh not Lamb’, ‘Cultural Awareness Strengthens Multicultural Australia’, ‘Mutual Respect not Meat’ to reinforce the message that ‘Vegans, Vegetarians, Meat-Eaters All Are Australians’.

Mr Palani Thevar, President of FICQ, opened the protest with a vigorous denunciation of the MLA’s refusal to withdraw the ad despite the Indian Government and the Indian High Commission in Australia lodging official protests and widespread condemnation by Indian communities in Australia, the United States and elsewhere.

Mr Ali Kadri, Spokesperson for the Queensland Islamic Council, referred to Muslims participating in Ganesh festivals in his state of origin Gujarat (India) with due respect and how he enjoyed eating laddoos at the local temple. There was no reason anyone to change religious beliefs to promote unity.

Mr Dave Andrews, said he was a Christian and a meat-eater, and he liked the lighthearted banter in parts of the ad such as Jesus changing wine to water, but he also supported the protests by Hindu, Buddhist and Jain friends against the MLA ad. The marketing manager displayed ‘gobsmacking ignorance’ of the billion Hindus and others.

Other speakers included well-known figures such as Mr Umesh Chandra, publisher of the Brisbane Indian Times and past president of the Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin, FICQ Committee members representing different Indian communities, (Mr Parminder Singh from the Punjabi/Sikh society, Dr Indrani Ganguly from the Bengali community, Dr Krishna Mohan – representing the wider Hindu community, Mr Nikhil Reddy from the Telangana community and Dr Ram Mohan from the Tamil community) as well as community leaders from the Punjabi Welfare Association (Ms Pinky Singh), and some young leaders.

All had one message: that it was not acceptable to disregard anyone’s religious beliefs and in the wider context to disregard personal preferences about not eating lamb or any other meat.

Some speakers suggested that apart from community protests speakers could lodge complaints to Facebook and other social media where the ad was being shown as another peaceful and legal way of objecting.

Mr Thevar concluded the evening by mentioning that there would be nation-wide protests on Sunday the 24th. In conclusion we could say that perhaps the portrayal of Lord Ganesha got it right when it says: “We clearly need a better marketing team”.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017 — 19

Understanding Queensland’s Court System Courtesy Pravinita Singh-Pillay Cornerstone Law Offices

Queensland has five levels of court jurisdiction and tribunals set up by state legislation to deal with a variety of offences.

The type of offence or dispute determines which court or tribunal looks after it.

1. Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal – deals with minor civil disputes and many administrative appeals 2. Magistrates Court – the first stop in all criminal offences and many civil disputes 3. District Court – handles more serious criminal and civil cases 4. Supreme Court – hears the most serious criminal and civil cases 5. Court of Appeal – hears appeals against decisions made at trials in the District and Supreme Courts, whether criminal or civil Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal QCAT deals with guardianship for adults, antidiscrimination, building disputes, children’s matters, dividing fences, tree disputes, residential tenancy disputes and other civil matters.

Magistrates Court The Magistrates Court is the first level of court jurisdiction in the Queensland justice system. Magistrates Courts can be found in most towns in Queensland and there are more than 83 magistrates and 130 places where Magistrates Court hearings are held.

Criminal If someone commits a criminal offence, under Queensland law they must be brought before the Magistrates Court as soon as possible.

The Magistrate, who is referred to as ‘Your Honour’ in court, hears the evidence and makes all judgments and decisions. There is no jury present. The first decision a Magistrate will consider is whether there is a case to answer and sufficient evidence to conduct a trial against the person charged with the offence. The second decision is whether the case should be heard in the Magistrates Court or sent to a higher court for trial before a

judge and jury.

Less serious offences such as burglary, assault, some drug and traffic offences are usually dealt with summarily. ‘Summarily’ means the case can be decided by the Magistrate based on evidence before the court. If the defendant, that is the person charged with the minor offence, pleads guilty the Magistrate usually deals with the case immediately.

If the defendant pleads not guilty, the Magistrate will set a hearing date which gives the prosecution and defence sufficient time to prepare the case and notify witnesses.

Civil Any person or company wishing to sue another for compensation or money owed with a value of up to $150,000 will need to file a claim in the Magistrates Court, or if the claim is for $25,000 or less they may take it to QCAT. If the claim is more than $150,000 it will need to be filed in a higher court.

The Magistrates Court also comprises: • the Childrens Court for most offences committed by juveniles. There is a Childrens Court jurisdiction in the District Court as well.

• the Coroners Court for hearing inquiries into deaths that occur in unusual circumstances.

District Court

20 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017

The District Court is the next level up from the Magistrates Court and the first court in the hierarchy that involves a jury.

There are eight District Courts throughout Queensland with more than 37 District Court judges who are called ‘Your Honour’ in court. The District Court hears more than 7000 criminal and 1000 civil matters each year. District Court judges also visit regional centres periodically.

Criminal Criminal cases involving serious assault, rape, armed robbery and fraud are sent to the District Court after being committed to trial in a Magistrates Court. Here, a jury of 12 people will decide whether the person accused of the crime is guilty or not guilty. If the accused is found guilty a District Court judge determines the sentence according to Queensland law.

Civil Civil disputes involving amounts between $150,000 and $750,000 go directly to the District Court.

Supreme Court The Supreme Court is the highest court in Queensland.

There is a Criminal Court in Brisbane, Cairns, Rockhampton and Townsville.

Supreme Court judges also visit other towns

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throughout the state. There are 27 Supreme Court judges who are referred to in court as ‘Your Honour’.

With a trial division to hear the most serious criminal and civil cases, the Supreme Court deals with approximately 1200 criminal and 350 civil cases every year. The Court of Appeal also hears appeals from both the District and the trial division.

Criminal Examples of criminal cases heard at the Supreme Court include murder, manslaughter and significant drug offences.

Like the District Court, the Supreme Court uses a jury of 12 people to decide if the accused is guilty or not guilty. A single Supreme Court judge determines the sentence according to state law.

Civil The Supreme Court settles civil disputes worth more than $750,000 with no upper monetary limit. A single judge presides over civil disputes and at times the court will use a jury of four to decide.

Court of Appeal The Court of Appeal hears all appeals from the District and Supreme Courts and tribunals such as QCAT. The Court of Appeal does not rehear matters but rather grants an appeal if the appellant argues that a mistake in law was made at the original trial. It does not reconsider matters of fact or evidence unless they have given leave.

There is usually a panel of three to five Supreme Court judges for each appeal. There is no jury.

Call Cornerstone Law Offices for a confidential chat about your family matters on 1300 267 637, email prav@cornerstonelawoffices.com.au or visit www.cornerstonelawoffices.com.au

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 21

Natabua High School Reunion 2017 Bahá’ís of Fiji prepare to celebrate the bicentennial birth of Bahá’u’lláh

By Afzal Shariff “In Scientia Fortitudo” – In Knowledge Lies Strength – The Natabua High School motto says it all. A true College living to it high standard based in the Sugar City of Lautoka has seen many scholars through its gate.

Natabua High School reunion – Sydney 2017 was organised by a dedicated group of individuals. Mrs Renu Sahu Khan, Shobna Chetty, Vik Naidu, Vijay Narain and Zac Sahu Khan. A dedicated group who worked tirelessly to make this event an occasion to remember for more than 200 natafarians and their spouses.

Four hours of Harbour Cruise with dinner was organised on Friday 28th and followed by Gala dinner event on Saturday 29th September. Two days of elegant celebration was memorable occasion for all ex-Natabuans.

In a true Natafarian style the night was danced away with auctioning of Fiji

sevens signed polo and performance by a pacific dance group at the Sofitel Wentworth – Sydney.

Ex-Natabuans from USA, Canada, New Zealand, Fiji and of course our Australian contingent from interstate and Sydney attended the occasion. Our old teachers were also part of these enormous celebration.

A big thank you to everyone who attended, making this grandeur occasion.

THE Bahá’ís of Fiji along for bringing God’s latest meswith millions of Bahá’ís sage to humanity. He has outaround the world will be lined a framework for the celebrating the birth of development of a global civilBahá’u’lláh, the Prophetisation which takes into acFounder of the Bahá’í Faith count both the spiritual and who was born 200 years material dimensions of human ago. life.

The bicentennial anniverEmbracing ideals that comsary will be celebrated in bine service and worship, over 100,000 localities Bahá’ís are engaged in a around the world on 21-22 worldwide effort at commuOctober 2017. Worldwide nity-building that, with no secpreparations are accelerattarian or congregational ing and giving rise to a aspiration, aims to contribute range of expressions, into a pattern of collective life cluding works of art, tribon earth that is informed by utes from national and local • The Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh, rest- the uplifting teachings of leaders, and community ing place of the Founder of the Bahá’u’lláh – teachings that celebrations.

Bahá’í Faith, near Akka, Israel. reinforce and amplify the The Bahá’í community of teachings of all the world’s Fiji started this special year by holding the great religions.

47th Bahá’í National Convention a few As the two hundred year anniversary of Bamonths ago at the Pacific Islands Forum ha’u’llah’s birth approaches, leaders around Secretariat conference hall in Suva. This the world from the international to local levevent is held annually where delegates els are honouring the momentous occasion across Fiji Islands gather to elect the mem- with special tributes. bers of the National Spiritual Assembly of The Bahá’í Community of Fiji is happy to the Bahá’ís of Fiji which is the governing join with others around the world who are body of the Bahá’í Faith in Fiji and admin- preparing to celebrate and honour the 200th isters the affairs of the Bahá’í communities anniversary of the birth of Bahá’u’lláh on 22 under its jurisdiction.

October, 2017. To mark this momentous ocThe Bahá’í Faith, the most recent of the casion at both the national and local levels, world’s independent religions, started 174 various events, such as inter-faith gatheryears ago with a central message of world ings, community-building activities and celunity. Bahá’u’lláh taught that there is only ebrations are being held across Fiji and all one God, that all of the world’s religions are are invited to join their fellow Bahá’ís in from God, and that now is the time for hu- these celebratory events. manity to recognize its oneness and unite. For further information, please contact the “The earth is but one country and mankind National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís its citizens” said Bahá’u’lláh. Bahá’u’lláh of Fiji at secretary@bahai.org.fj or call suffered 40 years of exile and imprisonment 3387574.

Chinmaya Mission Brisbane Annual Family Camp 2017 “Reflections”

By Jeannie Towers Family Camp Attendee Brisbane MY family and I attended the Annual Chinmaya Mission Brisbane Family Camp “Art of True Living” at the start of September 2017 school holidays. The camp was conducted by Swami Shrikarananda (Swamiji), who I came to know was our Acharya of Chinmaya Mission Brisbane. This was our first time in attending this camp and we all enjoyed it very much.

The camp was held at Kindilan Girl Guide Outdoor Education and Conference Centre in Redland Bay. It was located in a bushy and peaceful area, and as we entered the centre, we immediately felt relaxed.

The camp started on Friday night with a game. All attendees were divided into five groups, and each group was asked questions.

But instead of typical ‘right’ and ‘wrong’ answers, the answers were actually the top 10 responses in a survey done by Australians! It

was a new type of game and really fun.

We started the second day with guided meditation with Swamiji. We began by sitting straight with eyes closed, and then imagined that in our spine, a thin golden rod was placed from the base of our spine to the top of our head, the allowed us to sit straight. We scanned our body from our toes to our head, then focused on our breathing, feeling the air move in and out. All these steps helped to quieten our mind. If we got distracted by our mind with thoughts when we were meditation, it was okay as Swamiji gave us a technique - all we had to do was repeat the previous steps to bring our mind back to stillness. We learnt that through meditation we can connect with our true self and go inwards. With the stress of daily survival, I found that this meditation taught by swamiji very helpful to keep calm and focused.

The camp included a mix of Vedanta classes and fun activities. Swamiji’s teachings were very clear, easily understood and fun. During

22 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017

this camp, we studied ‘Purajana Gita’ from the Tulsi Ramayana and the text commentary was by Guruji (Swami Tejomayanandaji), who was our Swamiji’s Guru. It was the message of Sri Rama on the day of his coronation to his kingdom. Here is a quote from the book: “The most important teaching from Sri Rama’s life is - ‘ live a life established in dharma.’ Life becomes meaningful and fruitful if we stick to our principles, otherwise we become like a rudderless boat that is at the mercy of the winds - anyone can tempt us, threaten us or take us for a ride. If we keep compromising with our values we are sure to fall.” My notebook was filled with many valuable messages like this which our Swamiji gave and I shall meditate on them regularly. Here is one of my favourite messages - “there is goodness out of all situations”.

On Saturday afternoon, we played some fun sport games, such as the lemon drop and three legged race. We all had a good laugh

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and also good exercise! On Saturday night, we entertained ourselves with story plays.

Each group was assigned a story of Goddess Lakshmi which the children were learning from Swamiji and then we were required to put on a play. All groups had put in great effort and presented wonderful plays at night.

The camp finished on Sunday afternoon with a beautiful Hindu tradition where the children sit at the feet of their parents and do Pada pooja (worship the feet of their parents).

Through the ceremony children express their gratitude and love to their parents.

I felt recharged at the end of the camp not only physically but also spiritually. Thank you to Swami Shrikaranandaji (Swamiji) and everyone at the camp. I am looking forward to the next year’s family camp.

Please visit www.chinmaya.com.au/brisbane for details of our Brisbane family program.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 23

Confluence returns to Brisbane BRISBANE Indian Times and Australian Indian Radio attended the launch of Confluence 2017. Confluence 2017 was launched at an appropriately artistic venue that it well deserves. The Nanda/Hobbs Contemporary Gallery was specifically chosen for this occasion. The Gallery has been working to foster cultural ties through art since 2003, tying in perfectly with the purpose of the festival.

Confluence 2017 promises to bring a unique spirit of Indo-Australian intercultural collaboration that intertwines the distinctiveness of the two cultures seamlessly. It will bring alive the essence of India in Australia with a diverse range of performances that showcase the classical and the contemporary form of dance, music, theatre, cinema, literature and puppetry. The performances all evoke a strong sense of India’s ancient folk and artistic traditions, presented by renowned stalwarts.

When Indian Culture Meets the Sunshine State – Festival of India Australia arrived in Queensland September 23, 2017 Confluence: Festival of India in Australia made its highly anticipated return to Queensland after a remarkable inaugural year in 2016. Amassing a total footfall of 91,500 attendees spanning across seven cities last year, Confluence featured more than 162 performers who sold out 31 different shows. Brisbane was one of the festival’s most visited cities for 2016; with a substantial number of events taking place including the immensely popular Bollywood

Workshop at Queen Street Mall and the internationally acclaimed Sonam Kalra and the Sufi Gospel Project. Confluence: A Festival of India in Australia is recognition and celebration of India and Australia’s rapidly advancing bilateral relationship. It represents a meeting point, one that sees the convergence of ideas, arts, cultures, and civilizations. Designed to develop cultural diplomacy through the arts, Confluence provides unique opportunities for Australia’s curious populace to experience Indian culture in ways that were previously unattainable.

Additionally, the incorporation of local Australian artists into the program contributes to developing Australia’s artistic sectors and supporting creative grassroot communities across the nation. The transnational significance of the festival was highlighted during Prime Minister Malcom Turnbull’s visit to India, where Confluence was a key point of discussion between himself and Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi. From the 30th September, lovers of culture and artistry residing in Queensland can expect a dynamic program featuring a range of unique performance types. Spread across Queensland’s key cultural and economic hub, Brisbane, and the stunning seaside regions of Bundaberg and Townsville, Queensland’s residents will be able to enjoy the very best that India has to offer, with specifically designed artistic demonstrations ranging across the medium of film, literature, music and dance.

Most notably, world renowned Rajasthani folk band, The Kutle Khan Project, will be bringing their electrifying concoction of traditional Rajasthani folk and contemporary Western influence to Brisbane, Bundaberg and Townsville. For admirers of film, Brisbane will be featuring an Indian film screening in conjunction with the Asia Pacific Screen Awards, featuring the ground breaking and discussion inspiring film, Lipstick Under My Burka. Bundaberg will be hosting an exciting program that includes festival favourite Bollywood Workshop, headed by India’s “guru of contemporary dance”, Shiamak Davar and Bollywood School Australia.

Coming to Buss Park just opposite Moncrieff

Entertainment Centre, Bollywood Workshop is expected to return with the same energy and enthusiasm that made it an instant classic in 2016. Film exhibitions will also be appearing in Bundaberg, with the Film Retrospective event offering attendees the opportunity to view Indian films Mary Kom and Lion.

Confluence highlights: Queensland program

1.Saturday and Sunday 14 – 15 October, Film Screening in collaboration with The Asia Pacific Screening Awards, New Farm Six Cinemas, Brisbane 2. Thursday 26-October, Images of Truth by Ishara Puppet Theatre Trust, Multi-Faith Centre (Building N35), Griffith University, Nathan Campus, 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, Queensland 3.

Saturday 28-October, Images of Truth by Ishara Puppet Theatre Trust, Gallery of Modern Arts, Southbank, Brisbane. 4. Sunday 29October, Images of Truth by Ishara Puppet Theatre Trust, Power of Peace Festival, Roma Street Parklands, Brisbane “I cannot hide my enthusiasm for the second edition of “Confluence - the Festival of India” to be organised in the months of September-October 2017 across seven major Australian cities.

Confluence essentially celebrates the vitality, credibility and the “soft power” of India’s

culture, as passed down from one generation to another through an organic and live process.

It is a credible effort to offer, to the discerning and appreciative audience in Australia, from among the best creativity emerging in present-day India.” His Excellency, Dr. A.M Gondane, High Commissioner of India in Australia “Australian audiences were enthralled by the rich tapestry of artistic delights that defined ‘Confluence’ 2016.

‘Confluence’ 2017, once again, promises to delight, entertain, inform and enrich Australian audiences with the best of India’s rich and varied cultural heritage. The dialogue and interchange resulting from this festival will undoubtedly nurture and strengthen our community and our collective Australian identity.” Ms Archana Singh, Honorary Consul of Brisbane.

Subscribers and followers of the festival can keep up to date by visiting the Confluence website at www.confluencefoi.com.

Stay up to date with important festival announcements and catch sneak previews: Facebook: facebook.com/festivalofindiainoz/ Twitter: twitter.com/FOIinOz #FOIinOZ Instagram: instagram.com/foiinoz/

Calling all dog-tragic Queenslanders…

The dog lovers show is finally bounding into Brisbane!

AFTER attracting over 150,000 visitors to the Melbourne and Sydney events since 2013, the award winning Dog Lovers Show is finally heading to Brisbane to WOW dog-tragics on Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th November at the Royal International Convention Centre at the Brisbane Showgrounds.

“The latest pet ownership research* shows that a dog lives in around 40% of Queensland homes, which is higher than Melbourne and Sydney at about 38% and 35% respectively. Queenslanders truly love their K9 companions and the level of demand for a Brisbane Show has been higher than any other State since 2013,” said Jason Humphris, Founder & CEO of the Dog Lovers Show.

“With the valued support of the industry, we are so excited to be bringing Australia’s favourite Pooch-Festival to Brisbane to entertain, educate and inform dog lovers like never before in the Sunshine State”.

The event has grown to become of the largest events in the world dedicated to dogs and their owners.

The inaugural Brisbane show to present over 500 beautiful dogs of all shapes, sizes and breeds, a huge array of visitor attractions, around 150 exhibitors, 30+ rescue groups, 40+ Breed Clubs and an anticipated attendance of well over 10,000 dog lovers.

The KONG Celebrity Vet Stage will host some of the most compre-

hensive educational programs ever presented in Queensland for dog owners with two of the country’s most loved and respected animal experts, Dr Chris Brown and Dr Katrina Warren, already confirmed. Renowned Hollywood animal trainer Peta Clarke will also amaze the crowd with her ‘Star Pooches’ and the talented canines from Australian Working Dog Rescue International (AWDRI) will help educate and entertain the crowds.

Demonstrations of skill, agility and intelligence will be on-show in the Royal Canin Arena with back to back live shows all day including the amazing 4 Paws Racing Team who are bringing their new

24 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017

UpDog Challenge that combines the accuracy of Frisbee catching with jumping, running through tunnels and performing incredible tricks. The K9 Weave Pole Sprint Challenge will WOW visitors as some of the country’s fastest and most talented dogs burst with highenergy in a relay quest to win a coveted trophy. Dr Katrina Warren will be presenting a brand new Wonderdogs show for her Queensland fans based on the fun games you can play at home for a healthy, happy dog.

The Rescue Dog Zone will provide visitors with a unique opportunity to interact with a wide range of Queensland rescue groups and shelters and meet dogs looking for their fur-ever homes. Raising awareness for adoption and rehoming abandoned dogs is one of the cornerstones of the Show. Since 2013 the event has helped to find forever homes for over 2,000 dogs, and the first Brisbane event will continue on this important tradition.

Responding to the rise of plucky pooches across social media, the Brisbane show will introduce the Insta-Pooch Zone, where visitors will get the opportunity to meet and snap selfies with some of Queensland’s most famous canine Instagram stars as they walk the red carpet and give fans their pawtographs!

Proudly supported by DOGS Queensland, the Breed Showcase www.indiantimes.com.au

welcomes dozens of Breed Clubs who will educate visitors on a myriad of breeds, specific breed characteristics, explain what it’s like to live with certain dogs and give guidance on the best matched breed for their lifestyle.

One of the standout features from the Melbourne and Sydney Shows, a moving tribute will acknowledge the contribution that Australian Military Working Dogs have made in times of war and conflict over the last 100 years. Nigel Allsopp, President of the Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation, war veteran and current Queensland Police Dog handler, will present captivating seminars about the history of our fourlegged Diggers. Visitors can also buy Purple Poppies to commemorate the service of War Animals with all funds donated to Military Working Dogs and their handlers to assist post-traumatic stress.

With literally hundreds of exhibitors it will be one of the largest annual showcases of dog products, services and technology in Queensland, with stacks of new products and services being launched at the show. A shopping mecca, it is the paw-fect opportunity to spoil your fur-kids with show specials, stock up on presents for the year or grab a gift for Christmas!

There’s also free vet and grooming advice, Pat-A-Pooch and Perfect Match Zones to help find the most

suitable pooch for your lifestyle, and even dog breed face-painting for the kids! Some of Brisbane’s best Food Trucks will also offer delicious offerings to fuel a poochpacked weekend.

The Show is the ultimate day out for K9 lovers of all ages, providing dog devotees with the opportunity to celebrate and learn more about the companionship, unconditional affection and joy that our furry friends bring to our lives every day.

Please note: Dog welfare is our number one priority so unfortunately visitors are unable to bring their dogs to the Show – please see the website for full detail on this policy.

EVENT INFORMATION LOCATION Royal International Convention Centre, Brisbane Showgrounds DATES Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th November 2017 TIMES 9:30am – 5:00pm daily TICKETS Up to a 20% discount available for tickets purchased via the website For detailed info or tickets visit: http://dogloversshow.com.au/bri sbane/ F a c e b o o k : www.facebook.com/dogloversshow Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedogloversshow/ *Research source: Roy Morgan Single Source (Australia), June 2015

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 25

With Fond Memories Diwali is a festival, which is celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm by Hindus all over the world. With festive mood inthe air, Diwali brings with it an opportunity to remember all special people in your lives and how much you miss them in the physical form but appreciate their eternal presence in your life.

Late Mr Ram Bharos

Late Mrs Shiu Kumari Bharos

Born 26th January 1928 Called to rest 28th July 2004

Born 15th August 1935 Called to rest 15th November 2013

Both fondly remembered on this occasion by their eldest son, Umesh Chandra, his brothers, sisters, their families and relatives

Late Mr Sundar Lal Born 15th August 1933 Called to rest 24th June 2007

Late Mrs Raj Patti Lal Born 29th October 1933 Called to rest 21st September 2016

Both fondly remembered on this occasion by their eldest daughter, Usha Chandra, her brothers, sisters, their families and relatives

Late Mr Anish Prasad Born 4th October 1983 Called to rest 17th October 2011 â&#x20AC;˘ The spacious surrounds of the Leela Palace Bangalore (Bengaluru).

Remembered by Dad Ramendra Prasad, Mum Uma Prasad, Brother Nitiesh, family friends & relatives

Late Mrs Ram Kumari Prasad Born 25th November 1932 Called to rest 8th October 2010

Remembered by Daughter Sarojna Singh, her brothers, Sister, their family friends & relatives

Some people come into our lives for a moment, But stay in our hearts forever.

Words alone cannot describe how much we love and miss you.

Grateful to have been blessed with you being part of our lives.

The lives of those we love is never lost.

Its influence goes on through all the lives they ever touched.

By Sarojna Singh 26 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017

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PRIME MINISTER

MESSAGE FROM THE PRIME MINISTER DIWALI 2017

Diwali has long been one of the most important events on the Hindu calendar.

As a time to celebrate the triumph of light over darkness , knowledge over ignorance, and hope over despair, the spirit and message of this ancient festival resonates across faiths and cultures.

In that sense, Diwali is a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge our great fortune to live in a land of peace and tolerance where diversity is valued and celebrated.

People from around the globe, and from all faiths and traditions, live together in remarkable harmony, and we do so because of our commitment to mutual respect.

We are the most successful multicultural nation on earth, and with each passing day this becomes more evident. Against a twilight of widening divisions and deepening conflict around the world, our nation shines brightly as a beacon.

As communities across Australia gather to celebrate the festival of lights, I wish you a joyous Diwali and prosperous year ahead.

The Hon Malcolm Turnbull MP Prime Minister of Australia 23 August 2017

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017 — 27

How to do a Pedicure at home with Natural Ingredients

By Nimisha Modi Hetvi Hair & Beauty

RHIA Jewellers message to our readers ONE of the wonderful things about living in this country is that we are exposed to many different cultures and get the chance to learn about, and join in, a variety of festivals and activities. Consider Halloween, which was celebrated by members of every community even though it’s a western tradition.

Deepavali or Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, will be marked this Diwali in the same spirit. It’s the time when Muslims and Christians will convey their greetings to their Hindu friends and colleagues. Like Eid and Christmas, it is an occasion for family and friends to get together to express love, goodwill and generosity, and to exchange greetings, gifts and sweets. What else can be a better example of a vibrant multicultural society?

In a region where religious minorities sometimes hesitate to observe their faith freely and openly, the Australians tolerance is remarkable. So to our readers who are observing festivities today, we wish you a very happy Diwali.

In following this theme of multi-culturism, Rhia Jewellers is proud to be associated with not only a variety of elegant designs, but also

acknowledging the need to cater for the tastes of different cultural designs. We source our products from manufacturers all over the world where the quality control is a cut above the rest.

The friendly husband wife team of Abdul and Madhuri Azam (pictured above) pride themselves on their customer service and you can be assured that you will receive a hearty welcome all the time.

Once again, we wish you and your family a very happy Deepavali.

28 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017

HEY Girls, we often neglect sparing a few minutes to take rest and let the body relax. All day we go about running around, meeting errands and in the end we rarely do anything to relieve the tension that builds up in our feet. Times like Diwali call for some pampering. So, how to do a pedicure in the comfort of your home?

I believe that for a pair of beautiful legs one must give equal importance to the feet too. I have often seen women who make all the effort to be well dressed and well-groomed, but then when it comes to our feet, we completely ignore them because of which we are either sore or with chapped heels. It’s a pity.

1. DIY Pedicure There is nothing quite as heavenly as a good pedicure. You can do it at home but it really is never the same. However, if you still want a DIY routine, put together the following list of items - pumice stone, nail brush, loofah, file, nail cleaner, cuticle pusher, a heavy duty moisturising cream, nail cutter, acetone, herbal shampoo, lemon slices, a tub of hot water, marigold flowers, honey and towels.

Step-by-step guide: • Clean your nails with acetone and cut and file them according to the required length and shape.

• Massage a little cream or honey on the nails and dip into a tub of hot soapy water to which you have added some fresh lemon slices and marigold petals (believe me it makes all the difference and you’ll feel like a queen!).

• Once the nails and skins have softened, clean the nails with the help of the brush, and use a pumice stone to dislodge dead skin on the heels. Pat dry and clean the nails with a cleaner and cuticle pusher.

• Rub the lemon slices on the skin to remove tan and use a towel to pat dry.

• Use the loofah to smooth out dead skin and mix 2 tsp each of honey and cream and massage well into the skin. Wipe off with hot towels and you are done!

• Don’t forget to paint your nails with bright spring colour. Wear anklet and toe ring to enhance your feet beauty.

Hope you all enjoying pamper yourself this Diwali.

We’ll continue talking about foot care, please turn to page 38 Happy Diwali and prosperous New Year to all of you….Nimisha (0412 350 013)

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Happy Diwali & A Prosperous New Year

From Brisbane Indian Times

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 29

Celebrating Diwali around the world with exuberance

By Rama Gaind LATE September to October 2017 is an exuberant time for Indians living across the globe.

We are in the midst of a procession of most spectacular festivals of Dussehra, Karva Chauth, Lakshmi Puja and culminating in Diwali â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Festival of Lights. It celebrates the victory of good over evil, of light over darkness.

As I reminisce of whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to come, wonderful memories of Deepavali merriment, both past

and present, come flooding back.

Memorable recollections are of being in the city that never sleeps: Mumbai. In October 2016, I was proud to count myself among more than 21 million other â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Mumbaikarsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; who also called this city home.

Diwali falls a little earlier in 2017: October 19, to be precise. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a national holiday in India, but all over the world traditional festivities will be marked as families spend precious time together.

Significance of Diwali The meaning of Diwali, its symbols and rituals, and the reasons for celebration are countless. Diwali celebrates Lord Rama and his wife, Sitaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s glorious and long-awaited return to his kingdom of Ayodhya after 14 years of exile in the forests.

It follows Rama and monkey god Hanuman defeating the demon King Ravana and rescuing Sita from his evil clutches (on Dussehra).

It commemorates Lord Krishnaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s victory over the demon Narakaasura, who had kidnapped and terrorised the gopis of Vrindavan.

It is also celebrated as the day Bhagwan Vishnu married Maha Lakshmi. Diwali is also associated with the story of the fall of

â&#x20AC;˘ Diwali celebrations will be held around the world on October 19, 2017.

Bali â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a demon king who was defeated by Lord Vishnu.

In general, Diwali signifies the triumph of good over evil, of righteousness over treachery, of truth over falsehood, of brightness over gloom and knowledge over ignorance.

Lots of small clay lamps (called diyas) and candles are lit and placed in houses, and fireworks are let off everywhere.

It is marked by four days of celebration, which literally illuminates the country and

households with brilliance and dazzles everyone with its joy. Each of these is separated with different traditions. What remains true and constant is the celebration of life, its enjoyment and a great sense of goodness.

Bollywood celebration Diwali is also a time of wearing new clothes, eating sweets and giving gifts.

It is more than diyas, candles, fairy lights and firecrackers. It is a festival of colours in its own way, be it painting our homes right before the festive season, colourful latest outfits or artistic rangoli, the celebratory hues are in all bright hues.

Over the years, we have seen Bollywood â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;starsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; being inspired by this festival. A host of celebrities including Amitabh Bachchan, Anil Kapoor, Sridevi, Priyanka Chopra, Akshay Kumar, Sonakshi Sinha and Deepika Padukone are known to host and/or attend extravagant Diwali parties every year â&#x20AC;Ś and this year will certainly be no exception.

You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to be in the city of dreams (Mumbai) to rejoice in this monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fun and festivities. Just remember: we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t create a fantasy world to escape reality, we create it to be able to stay!

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Diwali recipe Kaju Katli...

Kaju Katli or barfi is made with cashews and sugar, a festive dessert.

Author Swasthi (indianhealthyrecipes.com) Serves: 20

Ingredients (240ml cup used) • 1 1/2 cups cashew nuts (measure whole nuts) • 90ml or 6 tbsp. water • 1 cup minus 1 1/2 tbsp sugar • 1 tsp rose water or 1/8 tsp cardamom powder or both

How to make 1. Break open the cashew nuts, and dry roast on a heavy bottom pan till they turn crunchy.

Set aside to cool completely 2. Powder it in a blender to as fine as possible, do not over run the blender, else the pow-

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der will turn oily and lumpy 3. With the help of a spoon, break up the lumps if any in the cashew powder and set aside 4. Add sugar, cardamom powder and rose water to a non-stick pan and begin to heat 5. When the sugar melts off completely and begins to boil rapidly, add the powder. Lower the heat 6. Take away the pan from the stove, set it aside and mix well to blend the sugar syrup and powder. The mixture must be smooth 7. Put back to stove and cook till the mixture becomes a mass. At this stage the mixture should not look dry but has to be moist and sticky 8. Transfer it immediately to a plate and let the temperature come down to warm 9. While the mixture is still warm, grease your palms and knead it to a smooth crack free dough. If it tends to stick a lot, add a lit-

tle milk powder and knead. If your mixture looks dry, sprinkle some boiled and cooled milk and knead 10. Place the ball on a greased aluminum foil or butter paper and cover 11. With the help of a rolling pin, roll it evenly and cut to desired shapes 12. Cool completely and store in an airtight jar, if you have used milk while kneading refrigerate and use

Notes Milk powder is not needed unless, the mixture is under cooked. To help the burfi set, use it. Before adding the cashew powder, make sure sugar has melted completely and has begun to boil well.

This recipe doesn’t call for a string consistency of the sugar syrup, so do not skip roasting cashews, otherwise the burfi will end up being sticky

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017 — 31

Who, What, Where, When

• Karvachauth 2017 at Shree Laxmi Narayan Temple, Burbank. Photos Courtesy, Denis Sharma.

• Grand Kanchika Poojan was held at Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir during Navratri celebrations. More than 40 kids took part. All of them • Dharam Guru Acharya Pt Ram Harsh had to take help to carry their gifts which was given to them by devo- Tripathi Ji blessing Rajesh Gopal during tees as there were so many bags full.

Navratri in Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir.

• Ladies doing Garba in Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir during Navratri celebration.

• Left & Above: Dr Unnikrishnan V.P was awarded Order of Australia on 13 September at Government House. The official announcement was made during the Queen’s birthday holiday. The award acknowledged his service to the community. The Order of Australia is the principal and most prestigious means of recognising outstanding memebers of the community at a national level.

• Kaushalben Shah, Mukeshbhai and Tanmay Shah are very excited to win the prize for “The Best Family in Brisbane “at Jay Shree Ram Group Garba on Saturday 30th September 2017 .

32 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017

• Navaratri / Garba is one of the longest dance event in Guajarat, India. Garba lovers play Garba for nine nights in India. Brisbane Gujaratis celebrate this event with full excitement and energy every year. Kaushalben, Mukeshbhai and Tanmay Shah had a lots of fun at Kinjal Dave’s Garba on 26th August, Atul Purohit’s Garba on 27th August and Brisbane Gujarati Samaj’s Garba on 2nd September.

All halls were full of Brisbane Garba lovers at all Garba events. All Garba events were very well organised. Music, sound system, venue, food and selection of Garba were excellent at all events. Hat’s off to all organisers for entertaining Brisbane Gujjus. Kaushalben, Mukeshbhai and Tanmay Shah would like to congratulate all Garba organisers. Best wishes to all event organisers for upcoming Indian events this month and next month.

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Who, What, Where, When

• Vijay Kumar celebrated his milestone sixtieth birthday at Runcorn State High School on Sunday 1st • Navaratri celebration at Gayatri Mandir Boondall was officiated by Archaraya Nandlal Shastri, October, the surprise birthday party was organised by daughters, Varsha, Vanisha and Shivani attendance on all nights was very good.

Kumar.

• Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan organised a successful Mata ki Chowki in Gold Coast.

• It is that time of the year once again “Oktoberfest”, Anazapfen which is the opening ceremony with the traditional pegging of the keg by Lord Mayor and the first glass handed to the head of the State (Annastacia Palaszczuk was represented by Minister for Multicultural Affairs Minister Grace Grace).

• Navaratri was celebrated at the New Zealand Thirumurugan Temple, located at 145 Church Street, Otahuhu, • Radio 4EB stall at the Mosaic festival in Roma Street Parkland on Sunday 8 October.

Auckland, New Zealand.

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• Special thanks to Brian Sullivan for all his efforts in bringing many photo’s and volunterily covering many events.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017 — 33

Hindu Cultural Hub at Clayfield – Dasha-aha-raatri (Dasara): Ten days and nights Courtesy Dr Naren Kumar

Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Association (GCHCA) Is Moving Forward Sothi Kanagasabai President Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Association

WITH God’s grace, the Gold Coast City Council has now given consent to our Building Application (BA) over the entire block of land (5216 m2) to embark on constructing our Education & Cultural Precinct. With your support, we will complete Stage 1, (MultiPurpose Hall) build by December 2018 and Council will review our progress in June 2018. Visit our website http://culture.goldcoasthindu.org/ for more.

This first milestone of our build mission will help promote culture, education and spirituality in Queensland for the physical, mental and spiritual well being of our community.

We appeal to every person to support the build, to leave an education and cultural legacy for all our future generation: • by becoming a member; • making a donation; • volunteering your time and skills; and • promoting the Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Association’s mission to your peers.

Donate to: GCHCA Building Donation Account – BSB: 064 - 474 A/C 1048 8900 (donations of > $2 are tax deductible and will reduce your tax liability – please consult your tax advisor). http://culture.goldcoasthindu.org/donations/.

GCHCA wishes you a Happy and Prosperous Deepavali -19 October Deepavali (Diwali) the “Festival of Lights”, has become one of the 10 most celebrated festivals around the world.

Deepavali is a community celebration with families, kids, parents, grandparents and extended family and friends, enjoying moments, religious and ritual observations which has evolved to a more modern and lavish celebration with still a strong spirit of Deepavali.

The significance of Deepavali, is to illuminate ourselves, our homes and offices to symbolize the victory of Light over Darkness, Good over Evil and Knowledge over Ignorance. This message is for all, especially our young ones who are our future.

Asato mā sadgamaya From ignorance, lead me to truth Tamasomā jyotir gamaya From darkness, lead me to light Mrityormāamritam gamaya From death, lead me to immortality Oṁ śhānti śhānti śhāntiḥ Om peace, peace, peace (Brhadaranyaka Upanishad — I.iii.28) In true Hindu culture, please remember to share and care for those who are frail, sick, needy and the elderly.

GCHCA celebrates Skanda Sashti - 20 October to 25 October Skandar Sashti is the most important festival celebrated in honour of Lord Muruga who is also known as Skanda, Kumara, Karthikeya or Subramanya.

Skanda Puranam narrates how Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati’s son took birth as Murugan and wiped off the demons who were causing anarchy on the planet.

It is believed that during this period Lord Muruga appeared on earth to defeat Adharma (Unrighteousness) and restore Dharma (Righteousness). According to Skanda Puranam (poetic account), the asuras (demons) under the leadership of Surapadman, Simhamukha and Tarakasura were defeated on the sixth day Soora Samharam (victory day) of the battle (falls on 25 October). The asuras were annihilated and the devas (di-

vine) were liberated.

GCHCA will celebrate this event on the festival’s 1st day, Friday, 20 October at 7.15pm in Helensvale Community Centre where their monthly Bhajans are held. There will be invocation of prayers to Murugan and the public can request to procure one for their home.

GCHCA’s celebration of Navaratri A big thank you to all who attended our Navaratri function and made it a day to remember. Our 5th Navarathri Festival was celebrated in a cultural and colourful way with the participation of around 380 Hindus and non-Hindus on 23rd September 2017 in Gold Coast.

The festival was sponsored by the Gold Coast City Council, Krish Indian Cuisine, Coconut Lagoon Restaurant, Spice World, and South Coast Radiology and we thank them for their sponsorship. We also thank artists, performers and the attendees, who generously donated over $1,615 on the night.

The festival commenced at 6pm with Pooja to Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswathi, followed by the lighting of lamps, exquisite dance performers, vocalists and instrumentalists intertwined by speeches from our MP, Councillors and President.

This was followed at 8pm with the serving of a delicious vegetarian dinner, dessert and the cherished mingling of artists, councillors, community and members.

GCHCA will continue to deliver to you important Hindu cultural events and conduct bhajans (group singing), meditation, education and yoga classes.

Support the build of the Education & Cultural Precinct through your generous tax deductible donations which will leave a legacy for generations to come and reduce your tax liability (please consult your tax advisor).

Lokah Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu

34 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017

THE Hindu festival Navaraatri or popularly known as Dasara is celebrated over 10 days and nights in the 7th Hindu lunar month – Ashvayuja (or Aashveeja or Ashwin), which will usually be in late September or early October each year.

This is a significant festival in the Hindu calendar marking the victory of the divine over evil in a battle that spanned 9 nights.

The tenth day is celebrated as Vijayadashami (meaning: “Successful tenth day”).

Hindus worship the mother goddess Durga, who fought and vanquished two evil demons Mahishaasura (buffalo demon), and Raktabeejaasura (blood-seed demon). Goddess Durga is the divine cosmic imperishable energy, who wins over the evil forces comprising myriad faces of ignorance, and lethargy.

Durga is worshipped and respected by chanting Lalitaasahasranamam (1000 names of Lalita, the mother goddess). Sage VedaVyasa has written the 18 puraanaas, which signify Hindu legends, lore and associated festivities. In the Brahmanda-puraana, he quotes from the conversation between Vishnu’s incarnation – Hayagreeva (body of a man having a horse head), and sage Agastya, the thousand names describing the beauty and divine deeds (leela), of Goddess Lalita.

According to the legend, Mahisha and Rakta-beeja performed severe penance and offered their reverence to Lord Brahma (the creator of the worlds), and obtained extraordinary boons from him. Mahisha preferred to be immensely strong and not be killed by anyone, except a woman, thinking that no woman can defeat him in war. Rakta-beeja on the other hand asked for a boon such that – each drop of his blood when fallen on the ground would turn into a warrior-clone of himself. With such advantages, they won over the earth, heaven and the nether worlds and tormented the pious and the religiously oriented people. Seeing this, the Devaas (angels) sought help from the trinity – Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwara. They gave all their energies to Goddess Paarvathi, who became the fierce Mother Durga (energy personified), ready to fight the demons. The battle took nine days and nights through which Rakta-beeja was killed when Mother Durga covers the entire earth with her spread-out tongue, to drink every drop of blood falling from the slain body of the demon, thus giving no chance for mass creation of his clones.

Mahisha possessed the power to transform himself into a great buffalo. In the war, Durga’s mount, the lion destroyed the buf-

falo, while she herself vanquished the demon.

The following tenth day is popularly celebrated as Vijayadashami, which also marks the victory of Indra over his adversary Vrtraasura, as well as Rama’s win over Ravana.

Also significant to this day is the end of exile and incognito life of the Pandavas. Arjuna, with the help of Uttarakumara, retrieves the divine weapons from the Shami tree (where they had hid their weapons earlier), on the outskirts of the city in which they resided.

To mark this valiant act of revealment across the border, Hindus exceed the town (or city border surrounding their homes at least), to worship the Shami tree on the tenth night.

Some even burn a statue of Ravana using a fiery arrow shot from an opposing Rama’s statue on the outskirts to celebrate the victory. Children use dolls to replay these stories, by creatively arranging all kinds of dolls in their houses representing the past divine events.

Hindus regard this week long festival as one of enjoyment through worship, good vegetarian menu with a variety of sweets, colours, lights, dolls, dance and music as compositions of the grand event.

Stay Connected: The Hindu Cultural Hub at Clayfield is a centre to congregate and promote spiritual, cultural and educational needs of local community and wider Hindu society in Brisbane.

Devotees and friends assemble at the Bar-Jai Community Hall (178, Alexandra Road, Clayfield) last Friday of each month between 6.30pm to 9.00pm.

Our next cultural congregation falls on 27th of October 2017.

As a standard practice, we have the following program at the Bar-Jai Hall: - Pooja by Hindu Priest - Bajan and Kirtan by devotees - Monthly religious updates / guest speakers on spiritual (or) on yoga techniques - Prasatham with vegetarian dinner served - Session concludes with relevant social justice updates and public notices.

We are currently interested in building our networks and relations with different communities around local and Brisbane area. If you are interested to get involved, please contact us on 0469 016 416 or 0427 999 129 or alternatively contact Sathiya: sathiya.ramakrishnan@gmail.com.

More details can be found at our web site: http://www.hinduculturalhub.org/

Kavita Chandwani

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Mediterranean brilliance of Italy’s Casa Angelina

By Rama Gaind THE Amalfi Coast stretching along the southern side of Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula, offers a captivating combination of scenic splendour, fascinating topography and historical evolution.

No wonder UNESCO listed it to be an outstanding example of a Mediterranean landscape, dazzling with mountains plunging into the sea, striking towns, verdant forests, mysterious grottos, rough cliffs and iridescent bays!

Delicately perched above the azure tranquillity of the Mediterranean, now you can partake of some of this exclusive luxury as you seize the opportunity to stay at Casa Angelina, a stunning boutique hotel on Italy’s Amalfi Coast.

Australians can take advantage of some special offers to stay during the European spring and autumn in 2017.

Casa Angelina overlooks expanses of the Mediterranean Sea from a cliff-edge perch in the quiet and picturesque Campania village of Praiano, which is only a 10-minute drive from Positano and 15 minutes from Amalfi.

The property, which welcomes many Aus-

and sauna and access to La Gavitella Beach via hotel elevator and 200 steps.

Spoiled for choice Casa Angelina features 39 exquisite and luxurious rooms and suites, plus four ultra-exclusive Eaudesea rooms, almost at sea level.

The epicure restaurant, Un Piano nel Cielo, showcases seasonal, locally-sourced Mediterranean cuisine, while the poolside dining offers easy, healthy salads, pastas, and other lighter dishes.

One can dip into the heated indoor or outdoor pools at will, and bask in the summer • Breathtaking views from the Casa Angelina will sun on the poolside deck, relaxing while life ensure that you enjoy the magnificence and splengoes on elsewhere. dour of the Amalfi Coast in Italy.

The spa pampers and soothes the soul with tralians to enjoy all the magnificence and a comprehensive range of beauty and wellsplendour of the Amalfi Coast and its surrounds, operates seasonally and will be available in 2017 for bookings until 27 October. Children from 12 years of age are welcome to visit.

Casa Angelina room rates are from EUR305 (approx. A$439) per night excluding 10% VAT and city tax for two people in a classic room inclusive of buffet breakfast, parking, return scheduled shuttle bus service to Positano, Wi-Fi internet connection in guest rooms and public areas, use of gym

ness treatments sure to refresh and unwind to and guests can also wander down to the local beach for a drink from the seaside bar or head out on a trip on one of Casa Angelina’s private boats.

The special offer for Australian guests applies to autumn bookings confirmed by 15 October 2017 for minimum two-night stays from 1 October to 27 October 2017. Children from 12 years of age are also able to visit.

Exclusive inclusions are: * 10% discount on best available rates * Early check-in or late check-out (subject to availability) * 20% discount on dinner at Un Piano Nel Cielo Restaurant * Complimentary bottle of Casa Angelina Champagne and in-season fruit platter in room upon arrival Don’t delay: Australians should seize the opportunity, make the most of these exclusive holiday packages and grab their place in the sun at Casa Angelina!

• Left: Casa Angelina overlooks expanses of the Mediterranean Sea from a cliff-edge perch in the quiet and picturesque Campania village of Praiano, which is only a 10-minute drive from Positano and 15 minutes from Amalfi.

The story of Infosys From Dhaval Vyas.

Ahmedabad. India INFOSYS Technologies is one of the few Indian companies that has changed the way the world looks at India. Established in 1981, Infosys is a NYSE listed global consulting and IT services company with more than 198,000 employees. From a capital of US $250, the company has grown to become a US $10.4 billion company with a market capitalization of approximately US $34.50 billion.

No longer is India a land of snake charmers. It is now perceived as an economic giant to reckon with, bursting with brilliant software engineers and ambitious entrepreneurs. And Infosys along with Tata Consultancy, WIPRO & others are a symbol of India’s information technology glory.

Infosys has many firsts to its name: The first Indian firm to list on NASDAQ; the first to offer stock options to its employees. The company crossed $1 billion in revenues for the first time in 2004. TCS, however, was the first Indian IT firm to top $1-bn in revenues. Infosys is an organisation that inspires awe and respect, globally. On July 2, Infosys completed 25 years in existence.

The idea of Infosys was born on a morning in January 1981. That day, N R Narayana Murthy and six software engineers sat in his apartment debating how they could create a company to write software codes.

Six months later, Infosys was registered as a private limited company on July 2, 1981. Infosys co-founder N S Raghavan’s house in Matunga, northcentral Mumbai, was its registered office. It was then known as Infosys Consultants Pvt Ltd. The starting capital of the company was US $250. Murthy borrowed $250 from his wife Sudha to start the company. The front room of Murthy’s home was Infosys’ first office, although the registered office was Raghavan’s home.

Nandan Nilekani, N S Raghavan, S Gopalakrishnan, S D Shibulal, K Dinesh and Ashok Arora were the founders of Infosys.

Murthy was always broke. He always owed me money. We used to go for dinner and he would say, ‘I don’t have money with me, you pay my share, will return it to you later.’: says Nandan Nilekani. For Call 07 3865 6533

three years, I maintained a book of Murthy’s debts to me. No, he never returned the money and I finally tore it up after our wedding. The amount was a little over Rs 4,000.’

— An excerpt from Sudha Murthy’s reminiscences. She is the wife of Infosys founder N R Narayana Murthy.

Those days, Murthy wanted to do something with his life, but he had no money. Murthy was married to Sudha on February 10, 1978, while he was working with Patni Computers.

In 1981, it was Murthy’s idea to start Infosys. Murthy had a dream, and no money. So Sudha gave him Rs 10,000, which she had saved without his knowledge. Murthy and his six colleagues started Infosys in 1981.

No, it was not in Bangalore, but in Pune that Infosys set up its first office, in 1981. The house that Murthy and Sudha bought with a loan became the first Infosys office.

As Murthy ran Infosys, Sudha took up a job as a systems analyst with the Walchand Group of Industries to support their household.

In 1983, Infosys moved to Bangalore when it got its first client, Data Basics Corporation from the United States. The first mini-computer arrived at Infosys in 1983. It was a Data General 32-bit MV8000. The very next year Infosys switched from mini to main frames with a CAMP application for a Data Basics customer.

When they began moving ahead with Infosys, the founders — Murthy, Nilekani, Shibulal and the others — took a firm decision — that their wives would not be involved in the running of the company.

So after Murthy, it was Nilekani and his wife Rohini who moved to Bangalore. But they had no house to stay. So the Nilekanis stayed with the Murthys at their Jayanagar home in Bangalore.

Rohini took care of Murthy’s son as Sudha helped write software programmes for Infosys. There was no luxury, only struggle, day and night. They had no car, no phone.

Murthy later recalled that it was not the luxuries of life, but the passion to create something new and innovative that made them keep going on and on and on. Despite the struggles, the Murthys, the Nilekanis and the other partners took time out for picnics in Bangalore.

The first years of Infosys were not smooth. Most of the founders — Murthy, Nilekani, Dinesh, Shibulal and Gopalkrishnan — were into writing codes. And they wanted to make an impact in the American market.

So Infosys got its first joint venture partners in Kurt Salmon Associates.

Gopalakrishnan, who had spent time working in the United States, was the public face of the KSA-Infosys venture in America. But the joint venture collapsed in 1989, leaving Infosys in the lurch.

Gopalakrishnan relives the memories of those days. “We had nothing after eight years of trying to bring up a company. Those who studied with us had cars and houses,” he says.

The collapse of the KSA joint venture led Infosys to its first crisis.

The company was on the verge of collapse. One of the founder-partners — Ashok Arora — was dejected with the way the company was going, and decided to quit.

The others did not know what to do. But Murthy had the courage of conviction. ‘If you all want to leave, you can. But I am going to stick (with it) and make it,’ Murthy told them.

The other partners — Nilekani, Gopalakrishnan, Shibulal, Dinesh and Raghavan — decided to stay.

And thus began to germinate the seeds of Infosys’ enormous growth.

The NASDAQ listing It is said that Infosys began getting big breakthroughs from the US market.

The initial foray of Infosys into the US market was through a company called Data Basics Corp as a ‘bodyshop’ or on-site developer of softwww.indiantimes.com.au

ware for US customers. Later, Infosys formed a joint venture with Kurt Salmon Associates to handle marketing in the United States.

Even today, Infosys derives about two-thirds of its revenue from the United States, serving corporate clients like Reebok, Visa, Boeing, Cisco Systems, Nordstrom and New York Life.

Infosys is the largest publicly traded IT services exporter in India, providing services to 315 large corporations, such as GE and Nortel, predominantly in the USA. It was the first Indian company to list on the NASDAQ stock exchange in 1999.

25 years sheer determination, and growth In the last 25 years, Infosys has been growing and growing. Though if one takes a recent view, the growth has slow down a bit, but still it will deliver good results.

Today, Infosys is India’s second largest software exporter. It now enjoys a strong liquidity position with over Rs 6,000 crore (Rs 60 billion) in assets, including surplus cash.

During 2005-2006, the Infosys internal cash accruals more adequately covered working capital

requirements, capital expenditure and dividend payments leaving a surplus of Rs 1,612 crore (Rs billion. 2005 figures).

As of January 2016, they had 1045 clients in over 50 countries.

Infosys is the 15th largest IT service provider in the world. It holds 19th position in the World’s Most Innovative Companies in the world as listed by Forbes. The company also received Oracle Excellence Award.

The software giant comes under the top 10 companies of the world for its total amount of shareholder returns.

Infosys is the most admired company of India and is considered as a dream workplace by software professionals. It is also the most trusted brands of India.

Infosys also comes in the top 20 green companies. The youngsters always find career opportunities in Infosys. The original shareholders who stuck with the founders has their wealth multiplied at an amazingly record levels with today’s valuations.

Infosys started the Infosys Foundation in the year 1996. The foundation has been created in order to support the underprivileged areas of a society. The company started many programs in Karnataka of India. The foundation works lie in the areas like Healthcare, Culture, Education, and many other major areas of a society.

There are Infosys labs as well and they have been set up all over world as a network of innovation labs. The labs have collaboration with national and international universities all across the globe.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017 — 35

JESUS is Lord Part 3 Key Scripture: For in Christ lives all the fullness of God in a human body.

So you also are complete through your union with Christ, who is the head over every ruler and authority.

- Colossians 2:9-10 (NLT) DEAR reader, we are excited to bring you the greatest good news on this planet. Our theme simple and clear. It is to make God simple and personal. And to make God a very real person so you can know and relate to Him. God is not an object or an image or imagination of human mind. God is a living and loving person. We find this amazing revelation in the pages of the Holy Bible. Keep reading with an open heart and humble spirit. You will encounter your Creator today. You don’t need a thousand years for your Salvation (Mukti). You can receive your greatest miracle ‘Mukti’ today. This the confidence you can have in Christ alone.

Let us continue our journey in search of this living and loving Lord. We will encounter God when we seek Him with all our heart, mind and strength. The Word of God says, you will know the truth in your heart and you will understand that Jesus is The Lord.

The letter to Colossians clearly and boldly explains the simplicity and supremacy of Christ. When you begin to read and think about the key scripture written above; you will understand that you are dealing with a most remarkable greatness.

Jesus Christ is the image of invisible God. This is one of the strongest and unquestion-

able statements found anywhere in the Holy Scriptures. Jesus is not only equal to God the almighty, He is the exact representation of God. He came to His own earth in human form; not only to reflect the fullness of God but also to reveal the mystery of God. He came to rescue humanity from sin and curse.

Therefore Christ existed before anything was created. Jesus Christ is supreme over all creation. And through Him all things were created in the cosmos and on earth. The stars and galaxies were formed from His the breath and exist by His power. Therefore He has all the authority and priority over His creation. This makes Jesus the Lord of Lords, King of Kings. The most gracious and most merciful Lord is Jesus.

To know Jesus as The Lord means to know the author of your life. And to walk in His ways means journey through this life by faith in His Word and in His finished work on the Cross. He is the most loving Lord you will ever know on this planet.

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

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

A home for growth Sadhguru, Isha Foundation ESSENTIALLY, a home is an arrangement to live. People make arrangements according to their means and needs. You choose an arrangement that is convenient for whatever purpose you live for. A home is not just the building. It also includes all your other arrangements – your wife or husband, children, maybe parents, neighbours, and the neighbourhood. The idea of living in a city instead of living in the forest is to make our lives easier, to have infrastructure and a community. People chose to live in the city so that life would be a little more effortless – though it may not be working that way for many right now.

You need to create a situation in your home where everyone is there because they want to be there. Just see if anyone is feeling trapped or suffocated in your home. There may be people who feel that way, and you don’t even know. They may be speaking to the neighbors, not to you. If they are feeling suffocated, open larger windows for them, or put them on the rooftop – whatever is needed to make sure everyone is there because they want to be there.

Once you create this atmosphere, suddenly, home is a nice place to be. But if there is even one person who does not want to be there, he

will create a certain atmosphere and a vibe that is difficult to live with. First of all, check yourself – is this the place you want to be? If it is not, see why. If it is, see why. Engineer your home in such a way that it feels like a wonderful place for you to do your sadhana (spiritual practices), to live well, to be peaceful, and to be joyful.

Let this not become a hellhole for you – it is your home. It is an arrangement that you made – no one shoved you into it. It must work the way you want it to.

If you are a spiritual seeker, why can’t your home be set up like an ashram? It would be great if everyone was a volunteer at home.

Do not volunteer only in the ashram – be a volunteer at home too. Many people have shared with me, “I never thought cutting vegetables could be such a fantastic experience.”

I said, “Why? You never ate vegetables in your life?” “Yes, but…” When they are at home, they expect someone else to do it.

The fundamental thing is to make sure everyone is there because they want to be there. Set an atmosphere where your home is not a place to be stuck in but a place to grow in. Your home should be an arrangement for your growth.

Arya pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland Inc.

Vedic view of life....

Jitendra Deo President APSQ

THERE have been, from the earliest times, two schools of thought, regarding man’s outlook on life. There are those who believe in enjoying life to the full. For those people the only object in life is to eat, drink and be merry and their attitude towards life finds a very clear expression in the saying that man is rather a long-living animal with great powers of enjoyment, if he does not deliberately forego them. At the other extreme stand those men and women to whom the world in all emptiness, vanity and deceit. For these people material life has no charm. They believe it to be a source of positive misery and, therefore, escape from it is the essential step towards salvation.

The presence of pain cannot be denied. But we cannot subscribe to the view that the whole world is felling miserable. Had the world been entirely painful, nobody should have felt a liking for it. As a matter of fact, the world is not exclusively painful. It has both pleasure as well as pain and the former exceeds the latter. That is why everybody likes to continue here, however adverse the conditions may be under which he be placed.

As a rule man always chooses pleasure and has no inclination for pain. The Veda, therefore adopts a realistic view of the world.

Looking more closely into the matter it will be seen that though there is some truth in both the views, they reveal only one side of the picture and, therefore, partial truth. The whole truth, according to the Veda consists neither in the denial of the world and its objects (created by God so that man may benefit from them) nor in their enjoyment by possession, but by enjoying in renunciation.

The Vedic view is successful synthesis of the two extremes which may be summed up as enjoyment followed by renunciation. All civilisations in the past in general, our own

civilisation in particular, have tried to evolve and materialise this idea in the forms of religious or social institutions.

Ashrania-dharma of the Vedic Aryans is a well-considered attempt in this direction.

Any person practising this Dharma will desire no more than what he can get justly, use soberly, distribute cheerfully and leave contentedly. He will be careful in warming his hands before the fire without burning them.

The way to escape from misery is not to turn our back on the world, but to follow the divine law of right conduct, as advised by the Vedas.

The Vedic view is a practical synthesis of the two seemingly opposing theories. Of course, the enjoyment should be free and true enjoyment of the spirit, and not of the satisfaction of the sense based on the impact of the external world on the sensory organs. Similarly, renunciation also is not the rejection of the world with its objects but renunciation of worldly desires and ambitions. If a man had only acted in the light of the teachings of the Veda, he should have realised that the worldly goods, which he is trying to possess physically to a limitless extent, are not his.

He can use them but cannot claim them as his own. If he had known that behind all material existence there is a universal spirit which permanently controls it, things would certainly have been different. But the most tragic part of it all is that man does not learn this lesson was from his own accumulated experience embodied in human history. If there is one lesson which is potent on the pages of the history of every nation, it is this that no individual, nor any nation, however powerful at one time, has even been successful in holding the world in its possession for all times. To me it appears that the only lesson which man has learnt from history is that man has learnt nothing from history.

Man may be a social animal but the last part of life road has to be walked in a single file.

Please contact Jitendra Deo 3263 1914 or Hari Chand 33454716 for information on activities of Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland or log on: www.aryasamajqueensland.com

36 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017

Overcoming your drought…

Pastor Joseph Dass DEAR reader, it is with great joy we bring to you the word of God. We all face seasons when things look completely hopeless and looks as if nothing is going to change. It looks like a season of drought and you find yourself stuck in a situation and you wonder if anything is going to change. But let me encourage you that you have to get a vision for change before change happens. Instead of seeing yourself stuck and empty, you should see yourself making progress. God already has a good plan for your life. Do not let past disappointments and failures keep from believing for a great future ahead. With the eyes of faith, see yourself rising higher. You may be going through a lack but see yourself walking in abundance. You may be going through some sickness but have a vision of seeing yourself healed.

In the scriptures (1Samuel 1) we read of a man having 2 wives one of whom was Hannah. She was barren. She was a woman but could not have children. And this caused her much grief and sadness. Year by year time went by and it looked like nothing was going to change for her. But one day Hannah decided it was time for some change in her life.

She saw herself having a son. That she was not going to cut his hair and would dedicate him in the service of God. She went on to eat, and her face was no longer sad. She was no

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longer going to let her situation get her down.

She was not going to lose her joy. She developed an attitude of being thankful and joyful.

Early in the morning she got up and worshiped before the Lord. Soon after she gave birth to a baby boy.

Just like Hannah, I am encouraging you to have a vision for change. Have a vision of accomplishing your goals. God is bigger than anything that you are facing today.

Here are 7 Things we can learn from Hannah.

- PENINAH (her sister in law) provoked her…people will throw stones at you. The kind of life you going to have will depend on whether you see it as a stumbling block or a stepping stone. For Hannah, the provocation turned into renewed faith in God to have a son.

- Big challenges bring about bigger victory, so stay in the game. Hannah faced a big challenge from Peninnah. She accepted it and went on to have success.

- When you lose all hope and think this is the end, remember God and pray. It’s just the detour not the end.

- When you cannot change a situation, change yourself. Have a new look and you will find that there is another way to get to your destiny.

- Anyone can pray to have children, but it takes a mother to pray for a son or a daughter.

A true vision is not blurred, it is specific.

Hannah had a vision to have a male child and she asked God for same.

- People will hate you, rate you, shake you and break you. But how strong you stand is what makes you.

- No one can hurt you without your permission.

God bless you - Ps Joseph Dass josephdass@optusnet.com.au Call 07 3865 6533

The status of parents in Islam Compiled by Imam M.Aslam ALL praise be to Allah Ta’aala, the cherisher and sustainer of the world and peace and blessing be upon the final prophet, Muhammad Salalahu Alayhi Wasalam.

All religions and all societies have given parents an honorable status. From a purely material viewpoint, we find ourselves indebted to our parents, particularly our mother. She not only nourished us in her womb, but went through pain and suffering. She loved us even before we were born. She toiled when we were totally helpless infants. She spent sleepless nights caring for us. Our parents as a team provided for all our needs: physical, educational, psychological, and in many instances, religious, moral, and spiritual.

Our indebtedness to our parents is so immense that it is not possible to repay it fully.

In lieu of this, it becomes obligatory for us to show the utmost kindness, respect, and obedience to our parents. The position of parents, and the mutual obligations and responsibilities, have been addressed in Islam in great detail. The Qur’anic commandments, as well as the sayings of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) guide us in this matter. The parent-child code of behavior in Islam is unique, since rules were laid down by divine command.

References to parents have been made at least 15 times in the Holy Qur’an. There are numerous traditions of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) on this subject. I will first quote some of the Qur’anic verses here: “And We have enjoined on man (to be good) to his parents. In travail upon travail did his mother bear him, and in two years was his weaning. Show gratitude to Me and to thy parents; to Me is thy final goal.” (Quran 31:14) According to the above verse, gratitude to

God and to parents go hand in hand. Gratitude to God is incomplete without showing gratitude to one’s parents. Since being grateful to God is a form of ibadah (worship) which earns heavenly rewards, it can therefore be said that being grateful to one’s parents also earns heavenly rewards.

“Thy Lord hath decreed that ye worship none but Him, and that ye be kind to parents.

Whether one or more attain old age in thy life, say not to them a word of contempt, nor repel them, but address them in terms of honor. And out of kindness, lower to them the wing of humility, and say, “my Lord! bestow on them Thy Mercy, even as they cherished me in childhood.” (Quran 17: 23-24) “We have enjoined on man kindness to his parents; in pain did his mother bear him, and in pain did she give him birth.” (Quran 46:15) Thus, God has enjoined on us to show kindness, respect, and humility to our parents. We are commanded to do this.

Some of the traditions of Prophet Muhammad, sallallahu alahi wasallaum and of the learned members of his family, about our responsibilities toward our parents are quoted here: “Paradise lies under the feet of the mother.”

“God’s pleasure is in the pleasure of the father, and God’s displeasure is in the displeasure of the father.”

“He who wishes to enter Paradise through its best door must please his parents.”

“It is a pity that some people may not attain Paradise, on account of not serving their old parents.”

“If a person looks with love at his parents, God writes in his favor the reward equal to the performance of one Hajj.”

[Someone asked, “will this promise be good if one looks at his parents one hundred times

a day?” The Holy Prophet (pbuh) replied, “even if one does so a hundred thousand times a day, God gives the reward accordingly.”]

“A man or woman is bound to be good to his or her parents, even though they may have injured him or her.”

It is also mentioned that Allah Ta ala said. I am pleased with those with whom their parents are pleased, and I am displeased with those with whom their parents are displeased.”

‘Ali ibn al-Husain May Allah Ta ala be pleased with them said: “The right of your mother on you is that you should know that nobody could endure the trouble and the conditions under which she protected you and nourished you with the juice of her life, and tried with her heart and soul to satisfy all your needs in relation to hunger, thirst, dress, etc. She passed sleepless nights, suffering anxieties. She provided you with shelter against heat and cold, and protected you from ailments. It is not possible for you to compensate her, or thank her enough for all the services, except that God may give you guidance for that. The right of your father on you is that you should know that it is he who brought you into existence, and you are a branch of the tree of his life.”

According to a reliable tradition, it is related that a man came to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and asked him to whom he should render kindness. The prophet told him to be kind to his mother. Three times he put the same question to the prophet, and three times he got the same answer. When he asked the question the fourth time, he was told to be kind to his father, indicating that the mother’s right took precedence over that of the father.

Parents’ duties: Islam has assigned certain

duties to parents that they must fulfill. If they fail in those, they will be questioned about it.

Besides providing the basic necessities of life, Islam requires that the parents teach their children about the Tauheed of God, the Quranic commandments, values, the Prophets and their teachings, and the moral code of Islam as according to the Quran and the Sunnah (teachings) of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).

Let us pray to God that He guide us to be respectful, kind, and obedient to our parents, and that we continue to show them humility regardless of the power, position, wealth, and influence we may possess. Let us also pray that we be patient, kind, thoughtful, and friendly with our children, as we guide them through their lives, and that we discharge our responsibilities towards them as required by our religion, so that God may be pleased with us, and may He Bless and reward us, both in this world and in the Hereafter. Ameen We hope and pray that all of us will respect our parents while they are alive and after their death. One can honour his parents after their death through the following methods: 1. Performing daily Du’aa’ (supplication) for them.

2. Giving charity on their behalf.

3. Instituting a perpetual charity on their behalf for the benefit of humanity.

4. Performing Hajj on their behalf, or asking someone to do so if they were obliged to do and they couldn’t.

Let us pray to Allah that we do our best to respect our parents, honour them, be kind to them, assist them, and please them so that we may attain the love of Allah.

O Allah! Accept our humble prayers and make us obedient slaves to You. O Allah! Help us to be respectful children to our parents. Aameen.

Darshana – Hindu Philosophy THE Sanskrit term Darshana means an act of seeing a person or an object, generally with reverence. It is also used to denote seeing beyond physical existence, and relates to philosophical thought, commonly known as philosophy.

A number of philosophical traditions have flourished in India over the centuries. Among them, six traditions remain dominant in Hinduism. These are known as Sankhya or ascertainment of truth, Yoga or union with devine, Nyaya or logic, Vaisheshika or atomic theory, Purva Mimansa or critical enquiry and Uttar Mimansa, also known as Vedanta. All these traditions accept the authority of the Vedas and are termed Astika or orthodox Hindu philosophy.

Other philosophical traditions, which originated in India as a reaction to the prevailing Vedic thinking, are that of Charvaka, Ajivika, Buddhism, Jainism and others. These do not accept the authority of the Vedas and hence are labelled as Nastika or unorthodox philosophy by observant Hindus.

Kapila, the son of sage Kardama, founded the Sankhya philosophy. He mentioned twenty-five philosophical truths and presented the theory of evolution. He described three gunas or qualities of goodness, passion and darkness that affect all beings. He explained the process of creation through the combination of Prakriti or primordial matter and Purusha or spirit.

He argued against the concept of animal sacrifice.

Many adherents of the Sankhya tradition have subsequently commented upon Kapila’s theory. The second chapter of the Bhagavad Gita elaborates Sankhya with reference to immortality of the soul and the importance of Karma or action.

Yoga philosophy is credited to sage Patanjali, who composed the Yoga Sutras. According to Patanjali, Yoga is restraining of mind from wandering around. Yoga Sutras identify eight limbs of Yoga which are known as Yama comprising nonviolence, truthfulness, non-stealing, continence and absence of greed; Niyama comprising purity, contentment, self-discipline, self-study and devotion; Aasanas (postures); Pranayama (breathing exercises); Pratyahara (detachment); Dharana (concentration); Dhyana (meditation) and Samadhi (pure consciousness). These limbs help practitioners achieve liberation from the cycle of birth and death and union of soul with the super soul.

Many other philosophers wrote commentaries on Yoga Sutras and further expanded these concepts. Notable among later Yoga proponents are Vashishtha and Yagyavalkya. Bhagavad Gita also emphasises the importance of Yoga.

Sage Gautama, a priest in the court of king Janaka, established the Nyaya or logical school of Hindu philosophy. His Nyaya Sutras consists of five books with over 500 aphorisms.

The Nyaya Sutras cover a wide range of topics including the science of argument and the science of discussion. It focuses on knowledge and logic.

Proof is considered important in establishing the truth. The four components of proof include perception, inference, comCall 07 3865 6533

parison and affirmation and are discussed in detail. Nyaya philosophy asserts the independent existence and timelessness of the soul and upholds God as the supreme soul, the seat of eternal knowledge and the maker of all things.

Many later commentators have expanded upon the NyayaSutras.

Sage Kanada established the Vaisheshika school of Hindu philosophy. The literal meaning of Kanada is ‘atom expounder’. Kanada’s Vaisheshika book has ten chapters and 370 aphorisms.

Vaisheshika philosophy is known for its insight in naturalism. This philosophy advocates a form of atomic theory. According to this philosophy, the reality of a physical object is composed of four substances: earth, water, air and fire. Each of these is of two types: atomic and composite.

An atom is indestructible, indivisible, and has a very small dimension. A composite is divisible into atoms.

Whatever human beings perceive is composite. Size, form, truths and everything that human beings experience as a whole is a function of atoms, their number and their spatial arrangements. Knowledge and liberation are achievable by a complete understanding of the world of experience.

The above-mentioned four philosophical schools emphasise the importance of knowledge and actions to varying degrees.

They are in keeping with the scientific approach to solve enquiries relating to the current and afterlife. Vedic rituals are not given significant importance. www.indiantimes.com.au

Jaimini, the most prominent disciple of Veda Vyasa, the compiler of the Vedas, wrote the philosophy of Purva Mimansa or critical analysis devoted to the interpretation of the Vedas.

He wrote Mimansa Sutras, which provide rules for the interpretation of the Vedas and also provide philosophical justifications for observance of Vedic rituals.

Jaimini asserts that the gods are not separate powers, but the Mantras i.e. the hymns alone are god. He admits the authority of the Vedas but does not accept the theory of their revelation.

According to him, an intelligent performance of the Vedic rites leads to salvation. Kumarila Bhatt, an adherent of Vedic rituals, wrote a major commendatory titled Shlokavartika on Purva Mimansa.

The origin of Hindu philosophy dates back 1st and 2nd millennium BC. Many ancient original texts have been lost. Researches determine their existence and contents with references to other available sources. Commentaries by later proponents remain the major sources for further exploration of the nuances of ancient thinking.

The above-mentioned five philosophical schools are mostly valuable for academic and historical interest.

The sixth school of Hindu philosophical thought, Uttar Mimansa or Vedanta is currently the most popular philosophy in Hinduism. Upanishads, Brahma Sutras, Bhagavad Gita form the basis of the Vedanta philosophy.

More information on Vedanta will follow in the next edition of BIT. Awadhesh Sharma THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017 — 37

Health Beauty Wellbeing How to do a Pedicure at home Gender bias: Indian moms tend to spend more on girl with Natural Ingredients child, while dads choose boys Nimisha Modi Hetvi Hair & Beauty 0412 350 013

Continued from page 28 HEY Girls, we’ll continue on pedicure in this issue this is really helpful for all of us with tired feet, cracked heels and Chipped Nails.

2. Remedy for Tired Feet If you have tired and aching feet and suffer from varicose veins, then the following foot remedy will help •Take 2 litres boiled water and add in 2 cups pine leaves, 2 cups rose petals and 2 tsp peppermint oil.

• Massage the feet with castor oil and then soak them in this soothing brew for about 10 minutes.

•. Add marbles or small pebbles in the tub and roll your heels on them to relax tired aching feet.

• Dry briskly with a towel and rub in a good lemon massage cream.

3. Cracked Heels Natural remedy for cracked heels is just being regular with a foot care by using a loofah and keeping the feet well moisturised and clean at all times.

However, here’s a really easy remedy – • Clean the feet well with a pumice stone and nail brush and pat dry.

• Massage the feet well with a heavy duty cream or sesame and sandalwood oil until the skin has absorbed most of it.

• Melt a candle in a double boiler and when slightly cool, brush it on the heels and allow it to solidify.

This remedy is best followed at night. Put on cotton socks and go to bed. In the morning, remove the socks and peel off the layer

of wax. Follow it daily for a week and you will find a huge difference in the way your feet look and feel.

4. Chipped Nails For those of you suffering from chipped nails, keep the nails short and well-trimmed to strengthen the base. Long toe nails not only look awful, but can be quite painful in closed shoes.

Let your nails breathe and if at all they have turned yellow due to regular use of nail colour, please let them breathe. A quick tip: rub lemon slices on the toe nails daily and allow the juice to soak in. massage with a cream, petroleum jelly or castor oil. You will find them coming back to their natural healthy colour in no time.

Now that you have some wonderful foot pampering tips in your beauty book, keep implementing them.

Regards, Nimisha www.hetvihairandbeauty.com

A NEW study has discovered that most parents unwittingly favour the child of the same sex when it comes to spending money.

Take a good look at your parenting style — you might have a subconscious bias about your children. A recent study has found that a mother would have a high likelihood of buying something for her daughter, while a father would choose a gift for his son.

Researchers from Rutgers Business School in New Jersey discovered that most parents unwittingly favour the child of the same sex when it comes to spending money. Study author Kristina Durante said the team found that the effect was very robust in four different experiments and across cultures. “The bias toward investing in same-gendered children occurs because women identify more with and see themselves in their daughters, and the same goes for men and sons,” Durante added.

The team recruited participants who had a child of each gender. The participants were told that they would receive a treasury bond of Dollar 25 for one of their children, and they could choose who received it. The majority of mothers chose to give the bond to their daughters, while the fathers preferred their sons. To test if the gender bias occurred in a different culture, the researchers conducted the experiment among parents from India, and the results were the same.

Participants required.....

What are the needs, issues and assets in the Indian Migrant Community in Australia?

INFORMATION SHEET (GU Ethics Ref. No. 2017/133) Who is conducting the research Lead researcher: Prof. Cordia Chu Student researcher: Nina Atkin CEPH, Griffith University 0420300601 nina.atkin@griffithuni.edu.au Why is the research being conducted?

This research is being conducted to understand some of the issues associated with settlement in Australia for skilled Indian migrants. This research forms part of Nina Atkin’s PhD project, as a Griffith University student, the findings of which will be included in a PhD dissertation and may also be published in journal articles.

What you will be asked to do You have been invited to participate in an interview, of approximately one hour of length.

The basis by which participants will be selected or screened If you have migrated to Australia from India on a skilled independent visa or student visa after 1 January 2007 then you are eligible to participate in this research.

You may also have been selected on the basis of your work with or in the Indian community in Brisbane.

The expected benefits of the research This study aims to examine the settlement needs and issues for Indian migrant couples in Brisbane in order to help the government and community organisations improve strategies for Indians migrating to Australia.

Risks to you There is minimal risk to you as a participant in this study. I can provide you with information regarding various support services in Brisbane and Australia if required.

Your confidentiality In order to protect your privacy your identity will be kept completely confidential and no names, locations, or ages will be used which may be used to identify you. I will also ensure your responses and information are protected in accordance with Griffith University’s policies. I will create audio recordings of the interviews for transcription purposes. All audio recordings will be erased

38 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017

The researchers conducted another experiment at a zoo where the participants with a child of each gender were given one raffle ticket after filling out a survey. They had to decide whether to enter the raffle for a girl’s back-to-school backpack or a boy’s backpack. Mothers chose the girl’s backpack 75% of the time and fathers picked the boy’s backpack 87% of the time. If fathers are in control of the family finances, then sons may be more likely to benefit in the long-run. This unconscious gender bias may also have ramifications far beyond the family, Durante says. The research appears in online Journal of Consumer Psychology.

HT

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after transcription. However, other research data (interview transcripts and analysis) will be retained in a locked cabinet and/or a password protected electronic file at Griffith University for a period of five years before being destroyed.

If you would like a plain language summary of the results please email nina.atkin@griffithuni.edu.au.

Your participation is voluntary Your participation is completely voluntary.

You are able to withdraw at any point without any consequences to you or your family.

I wish to stress that in no way will this impact your visa status.

Questions / further information If you have any questions or require any further information please contact: • Nina Atkin / Ph: 0420300601 Email: nina.atkin@griffithuni.edu.au • Prof. Cordia Chu / Ph: 07 3735 7458 Email: c.chu@griffith.edu.au • Dr. Robert Mason / Ph: 07 3735 8521 Email: r.mason@griffith.edu.au The ethical conduct of this research Griffith University conducts research in accordance with the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research. If you have any concerns or complaints about the ethical conduct of the research project please contact the Manager, Research Ethics on 3735 4375 or research-ethics@griffith.edu.au.

Privacy Statement – non disclosure “The conduct of this research involves the collection, access and/or use of your identified personal information. The information collected is confidential and will not be disclosed to third parties without your consent, except to meet government, legal or other regulatory authority requirements. A deidentified copy of this data may be used for other research purposes. However, your anonymity will at all times be safeguarded.

For further information consult the University’s Privacy Plan at http://www.griffith.edu.au/aboutgriffith/plans-publications/griffithuniversity-privacy-plan or telephone (07) 3735 4375.”

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Health Beauty Wellbeing

Male Fertility Sperm Test & Semen Analysis cityfertility.com.au

Why is it done?

Male-factor infertility accounts for 30% of infertility cases and is a common problem in couples trying to conceive. A diagnosis of this can only be made by carrying out a complete Semen Analysis.

A Semen Analysis can help clarify whether a man has a reproductive problem that is causing infertility. Although the actual fertility of a semen sample cannot be completely determined until it is known to achieve fertilisation, careful and thorough analysis of all the semen’s parameters in a specialised laboratory can allow scientists to determine what fertility treatment options are reasonable. Semen Analysis is best performed by scientists with extensive experience, following the guidelines and criteria of the World Health Organisation* (*WHO Laboratory Manual for the Examination and Processing of Human Semen – fifth edition).

A severely low sperm count or low motility may indicate the need for an advanced approach, whereas a normal Semen Analysis might suggest a more conservative approach.

With use of right technology, even the couples with severe male-factor infertility have options to achieve the birth of their own biological child. In most cases of male-factor infertility, the exact cause of the problem is unknown

Common Causes of Male Factor Infertility: In the human it takes 64 days to produce fully functional mature sperm. Although many of the factors that can affect this process are still scientifically unknown, the following have

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been proven to have a negative effect upon sperm quality: • Smoking • Excessive alcohol intake • Recreational drugs • Some herbal supplements • Prolonged exposure to chemicals, such as pesticides and heavy metal • Illness, such as particular fevers • Excessive exposure to heat, such as sitting with the laptop on the lap and being in the sun for long periods

Where to Now? I want more information: • Contact our Fertility Advice Team or • Book a 15 minute nurse chat I’m ready to take the next step: • Book an appointment with us • Get a referral to City Fertility Centre from your GP

Contact Us: • Call 1300 354 354 • Email contactus@cityfertility.com.au • Visit cityfertility.com.au

Happy Deepavali from the

City Fertility Centre Team

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017 — 39

Real Estate Is Our World EXCEPTIONAL VALUE

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Whatever the world of legislation throws your way, our service will always have you in compliance and reduce your exposure to risk

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Our Senior Property Manager is also on theBoard of Directors

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Real Estate News What comes first: the property or the loan?

By Gagan Tandon - 0425 158 280 Smartline Personal Mortgage Advisors

ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S easy to get carried away with the fun part of buying a property â&#x20AC;&#x201C; looking at houses â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but delaying the less compelling task of arranging finance will weaken your negotiating position on both the property and the loan.

Looking for a property to purchase is an exciting time. Choices regarding location, size, number of rooms and local amenities often see house hunters carried away in a deluge of daydreams and anticipation.

But, before you get carried away, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to check off the essentials first.

Although organising your finances may seem drab in comparison to perusing sales listings, gaining pre-approval with a lender will give you confidence about how much you can afford to borrow.

First and foremost you need to determine if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re eligible to borrow money from a lender. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Your ability to repay the loan will need to be assessed â&#x20AC;&#x201C; you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t what to find out after youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve [made an offer] that your credit history or deposit is not up to scratch.â&#x20AC;?

Arranging finance before finding the perfect property will put you in a good position when it comes time to make an offer. When you do find the house you have always wanted, you can present to the seller and estate agent as a prepared applicant who is serious and reliable.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;It shows you mean business, and gives them peace of mind that your financing will not fall through. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be afraid to let the selling agent know you have conditional loan approval in place,â&#x20AC;? the finance broker advises.

Sellers are most interested in completing their sale fuss-free and with steadfast funding, and showing that you are capable of both will help put you at the top of a potentially competitive list of applicants.

In the instance that you find and secure purchase of a home without having your loan pre-approved by a lender, there are a few pitfalls that you risk running into.

If you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have financing to pay for your property, you run the risk of forfeiting your initial 10 per cent non-refundable deposit you need to put down to secure the property. This may differ depending on what state you live in, but the point is it always pays to be organised and have pre-approval in place.

Saving home loan applications to the last minute also leaves less time to find the most suitable loan and have it approved ahead of settlement.

Arranging financing as an afterthought also adds immense pressure to the process of shopping around for the right loan and gathering the paperwork to prove you can service the loan. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to rush this process.â&#x20AC;?

The first step towards finding your new home is speaking to an MFAA Accredited Finance Broker to sort out the finances.

Wishing all readers & their families - A very Happy Diwali & A Prosperous New Year.

Gagan deep Tandon 0425 158 280.

Email: gtandon@smartline.com.au

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 41

Real Estate News

Bella Properties offer complete package – home buying solutions…sophisticated and elegant designs ESTABLISHED over 15 years ago, family owned Bella QLD Properties has become a household name and a pinnacle of the Brisbane building industry, becoming so recognised that associations such as Qld Master Builders invites Bella to be a major participant in all of their display Villages in South East Queensland.

Bella’s owners provide a hands on approach allowing clients the opportunity to become personally involved in the design and construction of their new home, therefore creating individuality within each build.

Constructing both investment as well as owner-builder homes, Bella services as far north of Brisbane as Bribie Island, as far west as Warwick and as far south as the Gold Coast.

Bella’s team have been working together since their inception reflecting the stability of the company. Bella takes the position that if they look after and continually train and upgrade their contractors then the result must be a loyalty and family culture that reflects their quality workmanship and high standards.

It’s with this approach that Bella presents itself to all customers providing a complete package when it comes to home buying so-

lutions with sophisticated and elegant designs that will create the exact living space you desire. Bella’s designs highlight the con-

temporary yet relaxed way of life that marks the Queensland home and their vast range of designs highlight this.

Bella’s building principle and philosophy is excellence and the company’s strong client ethic allows clients to express their personality in their build. Bella takes special pride in providing this exceptional service as they understand what a big step it is to build your own home and what it takes to give each client the best.

Bella QLD Homes are a builder that will offer you; * A wide selection of standard designs that can be modified with their Custom Design services to ensure you get exactly what you want at your budget * A team that specialises in single story, double story and sloping land builds * Genuine quality finishes and fixtures * Experienced staff who are here to help * Fixed pricing and warranties in place for peace of mind For more details call Sailesh Channan on 0422 2047 411 or visit bellaqldproperties.com.au

Australians lured overseas by exotic retirement and cheaper property Nicole Frost domain.com.au WHEN Alicia Young first travelled to Chile 10 years ago, she wasn’t intending to buy a house.

The Australian fertility author and speaker and her husband planned to spend just six months in the seaside town of Pilchilemu in 2007, but as they were looking for a house to rent they came across one that was for sale.

So the couple bought the beachside home for $US105,000 ($134,000) with the intention of spending at least three months every year there when they retired.

Owning a property would also help them with their residency application when the time came, Ms Young said.

“We looked into it and owning property shows that you have more time for the community … you’re not fly in, fly out,” she said.

Ms Young isn’t the only Australian lured by the prospect of an exotic retirement plan, especially when other countries might offer the incentive of cheaper property prices.

As of March 2017, there were 82,708 Australians retirees – or 3.31 per cent – collecting their pension overseas, up from 2.9 per cent ten years ago. The number of pensioners living overseas is six times what is was 30 years ago.

Most of those were living in New Zealand (16,432) followed closely by Italy, Greece and Spain, data provided by the Department of Social Services showed.

42 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017

There has also been an increase, generally, in Australian expats buying properties overseas. The latest Expat Explorer Global Report from HSBC found that in a survey of 1034 Australians living abroad, 60 per cent owned property somewhere in the world – while just 34 per cent owned property in Australia.

“In 2016, only 26 per cent of Aussie expats owned a property in their host country, whereas this year we’ve seen that figure rise to 31 per cent,” Graham Heunis, head of retail banking and wealth management with HSBC Australia, said.

“In contrast, last year 43 per cent of Aussie expats owned a property in Australia, and this has fallen to 34 per cent in this year’s report.”

Of those Australians who owned property overseas, 35 per cent said they bought it as an investment, but retirement was also a factor, with 14 per cent intending to live in their new host country after they’d finished working, and 10 per cent having already retired.

Brett Evans, from Atlas Wealth, a company that provides financial advice for Australian expats, said changes to foreign investor rules in the latest federal budget could effect the appeal of buying and selling property in Australia for those living overseas.

Foreign buyers – which could in some instances include expats – will lose their main residence capital gains tax exemption if they sell an Australian property. www.indiantimes.com.au

Mr Evans said about 20 per cent of his hundreds of clients were looking to retire in the next three to five years, with Hong Kong, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, Greece, France and Spain top of the list.

But for globetrotting Australians conducting business, the US was the No.1 destination for favourable tax reasons, followed by the UK and the Middle East.

“If you are a small business owner and you want to set up in the Middle East but you can’t get sponsored, you can get access there with a property,” he said.

“It’s the same with the Czech Republic and Estonia – it’s a big tech hub … the Silicon Valley of eastern Europe.”

Mr Evans said for entrepreneurs, buying a house enabled them to gain residency and to build their business ventures from that base.

Mortgage broker Todd Hunter, of Where Group, said though it was possible to borrow from Australian banks to buy property overseas, it tended to be against property or equity the borrower already had.

“Banks are pretty shy about it now,” Mr Hunter said, adding that for cheaper properties a buyer would be more likely to pay in cash.

Most of the overseas transactions he works with take place in the US, where he said it can be “very difficult to get finance” with the servicing of the loan treated more like a commercial deal with profit considerations, rather than a residential loan.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 43

Real Estate News

Excellent value....

Taigum - Offers over $510,000 THIS home is situated on a 650m2 block!

Features; - 3 double bedrooms with built-in wardrobes - Main bedroom with walk-in robe & ensuite - Spacious formal lounge & dining - Great kitchen with open plan family room - Separate family bathroom & toilet - Large internal laundry - Double lockup garage with internal entry - Fantastic side access for caravan + boat Catch the bay breezes from the lovely North facing Entertainment Area!

Fully fenced backyard with great rural views with sheep + cows.

Plus, a park located right within walking distance! Just what the kiddies love!

To inspect this property, please contact Usha Chandra (Globenet Realty) 0419 775 416 or Tehlia on 0430 193 714.

Acreage living - ideal for two families Burpengary - $799,000 THIS property is ideal for 2 families.

The original house features 4 built-in bedrooms. The huge main bedroom is upstairs with ensuite, walk-in wardrobe and air-conditioning. The entry leads to a spacious air-conditioned formal lounge and separate dining room. Spacious open plan family room and large kitchen. Huge covered entertainment area with outside Chefs kitchen, great for cooking at family events.

The separate Granny Flat is fully air-conditioned and features open plan living areas.

Spacious modern kitchen with plenty of storage. 2 double built-in bedrooms, separate bathroom and toilet. Great Entertainment verandah. 6 car lockup garage, other sheds, plus separate workshop area.

Variety of fruit trees, e.g. mangoes, jack fruit, bananas, limes, lemons, plus plenty more!

The property is on bio cycle, fully fenced property ideal for chooks, goats, horses etc.

To inspect this property, please contact Usha Chandra (Globenet Realty) 0419 775 416 or Tehlia on 0430 193 714.

Happy Diwali & Propsperous New Year from

GLOBENET REALTY - Staff & Management 44 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017

www.indiantimes.com.au

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Real Estate News Advertorial

Lost with frequent Interest Rate changes on Home and Investment-property loans?

Well, you arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t alone.

By Prashant (Sean) Goyal IT wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t so long ago when we used to have same interest rates on home loans, irrespective of its purpose whether it was for an owner-occupied home or for an investment purpose. Furthermore, whether you chose to go for interest-only repayments or decided to pay principal and Interest on you loan had no bearing on the interest rates either. One rate for all made it so easy for common people to understand and compare the rates. Thanks to APRA for causing the Banks for complicating it.

The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) oversees banks, credit unions, building societies, insurance companies and most members of the superannuation industry. APRA is funded largely by the industries that it supervises and was established in 1998.

Although APRA has always been on the Banksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; back to limit the lending for invest-

ment loan purposes however since 2015 APRA has notched up the enforcement of such limit to curb the so-called out of control property market in Sydney, Melbourne and other capital cities in Australia. Due to their massive market shares it was natural for the big banks, in particular big 4s to be very close if not already over the maximum limit of investment loans allowed for investment purposes on their lending portfolio. Which means they ran the risk of huge fines from APRA, hence an urgency from the Big Banks to cut down the loans for investment purposes came to fore.

While, different banks have different rules on what they consider an investment purpose loan however if you have a Variable interest only loan and it has been taken for investment purpose itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s almost certain to take the full brunt of the rate rises, in particular if the Lender is one of big banks in Australia.

Having said that, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not all bad news. While the Big Banks are trying to reduce their in-

vestment loans book they still want to grow their overall lending book and the only one way to do it is to Lend more for Owner Occupied homes. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why some banks are offering special rates for First Home Buyers only.

It has been noted that many banks are encouraging its clients to convert their existing interest only loans into principle and interest repayments mode. Generally speaking, currently there is a difference of 0.5% per annum difference in an interest-only vs principle& interest rate across the board, which is equivalent to $2,500 per annum more on a $500,000 loan.

In summary, you are most likely to pay the highest variable interest rates if you are on an investment loan and making on interest only repayments. On the other hand if you have a home loan on home to live in and paying principle and interest repayments you may be eligible for the lowest possible rates available.

Subject to some terms and conditions you may be able to achieve the same lower rates on both i.e. your owner occupied and investment loan, but it needs a close consideration of your situation. At Payless Mortgages we are committed to provide not only the best service but also at the most competitive terms. Our service is free to clients as we get paid by Banks.

Prashant (Sean) Goyal is an ex Bank Manager with 15 years of extensive Australian and NZ Banking industry knowledge and is the Director of Payless Mortgages, Brisbane.

(Refer to page 9 for contact details & info) Disclaimer: Information provided on this article is general in nature and does not constitute general or personal financial advice. Every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided is accurate. Individuals must not rely on this information to make a financial or investment decision. Before making any decision, we recommend to consult a financial adviser to look into account your particular investment objectives, financial situation and individual needs.

A spare bedroom could be worth thousands of dollars, but is it worth renting it out?

THERE are eight million spare bedrooms across Australia, with almost 80 per cent of households leaving at least one room empty, an analysis of census data shows.

With the average cost of renting a room at more than $200 a week in 2017, this could add up to more than $10,000 a year into the pocket of home owners, Finder spokeswoman Bessie Hassan said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Renting out a spare bedroom could earn you $958 a month towards monthly mortgage repayments or household bills,â&#x20AC;? she said.

In total, 5.6 million owner-occupied homes and 2 million rental properties have more rooms than they need for its occupants.

It could also save renters money â&#x20AC;&#x201C; equalling to a saving of about $3500 a year compared to the cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment.

But is it as straightforward as it sounds?

What home owners should know Renting out a room can quickly net a home owner a substantial sum.

But while it might help owners pay off a mortgage when they have one â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the promise of extra cash from the spare room wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be considered extra income by the bank when theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking to buy in the first place.

As a result those whose income is less than necessary for their dream home wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be able to point to rental income to get them across the line, Dream Financial mortgage broker Paul Bevan said.

And for those who want to use the income from a rented room to take on an additional loan will also face difficulties. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only one specialist lender that will consider this type of income and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s limited to $100 a week and the owner would need to show a lease agreement and that the rental income has been declared in their tax return,â&#x20AC;?

Mr Bevan said.

The additional income would also have an impact when it comes to tax time, and potentially when selling the home, which should be considered before leasing a room.

The income from the spare room has to be declared to the ATO at the end of financial year, and therefore it could be taxable, VJR & Associates and Keshab Chartered Accountants accountant Jeremy Iannuzzelli said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is also an implication for the capital gains tax status of your home,â&#x20AC;? Mr Iannuzzelli said.

Usually, your home is exempt from capital gains tax â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but if you use it to earn income then this may no longer be the case.

In many situations, capital gains tax could be charged pro-rata based on the proportion of the property that was rented, he said.

Read more at domain.com.au/news Call 07 3865 6533

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 45

Business Directory CARPENTRY SERVICES

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Astrology Aries - March 21 - April 20

As the month begins, your professional domain takes the centre-stage. Mercury moves to balancing Libra, 7th from your Sign. You will be sharper than ever, using all this ebullience and clarity to win over routine obstacles. Expect returns on past investments. Mars and Venus in association with each other offer great encouragement. You will be unstoppable, even when Saturn’s staid influence dilutes the positive planetary vibes. Important Dates 14, 17, 18, 19, 23, 24, 25, 26

www.ganeshaspeaks.com

Cancer - June 22 - July 22

Editorial / Photo Submissions Email prod@indiantimes.com.au or call 07 3865 6533

Libra - September 23 - October 22

The ruler of your Sign, Venus is in the 5th House from your Sign, in company of Mars, as the month begins. You will be attracted towards foreign territories. Planetary push will help you work efficiently. Financial stars shine brightly too. However, you must ensure being calm and gentle, while dealing with issues in personal and family life. Remember, these are the most important areas of your life, and there can’t be any substitute for them, reminds Ganesha. 9th brings a business opportunity. Important Dates 14, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 23, 24, 26, 27 28

Enjoy the slow pace of life, as the month begins. Unwind, recharge and seek tranquility! Meeting some very interesting, maybe a school-time crush, is likely when you travel now.

Cupid strikes and connects! A good time for ones who are already in love will ensure you start talking about marriage. Combination of Mars and Venus in the 3rd House, after 10th October, indicates social engagements and buzzing networking. Are you meeting an old friend, who may now become a valuable business contact? Important Dates 15, 16, 18, 19, 23, 24, 26

Month’s beginning augurs a change, maybe a professional one. This is a good time to change your job for better prospects, as you may have more options to choose from. Jupiter and Mercury present in your Sign along with Sun shall increase your amiability and personality. Union of Mars and the ruler of your Sign Venus will keep you motivated to give your best. Your work efficiency will increase. But, your urge to have more comforts and luxuries may make you spend quite a lot. Important Dates 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27

Your relationship domain needs you and your gentle involvement, as the month opens. Disharmony and discontentment may spoil your loving equation. And, ill effects spiral and spread to your work domain. So, sort things out first, says Ganesha. And, if you can’t, as yet, try finding some mental solace. Financially, you look set to be stable and secure, but you will be running after money. Sort your priorities!

Important Dates 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, 23, 24, 26

Busy vibes, as the month begins. The contradictory influences of planets may make it challenging. Focusing on one thing may not be possible, so you may remain diverted towards many agendas. Whatever way you find, keep moving ahead, says Ganesha.

Venus and Mars in the 4th House from your Sign will keep nudging to perform – even when you don’t want to. Sun, Mercury and benevolent Jupiter are in the 5th House from your Sign now.

Important Dates 14, 15, 16, 18, 19, 20, 23, 24, 2

Are you looking for a new job, as the month begins? The reason may be the bad work environment and your unfriendly rapport with your colleagues. Arguing won’t help!

Be flexible; refrain from holding grudges for anyone, tips Ganesha. Mars and Venus together in your Sign shall enhance your energy. You will feel that you can accomplish anything. Great, but don’t go overboard.

Important Dates 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 23, 24, 25

Who doesn’t want to enhance comforts and luxuries in his/ her life? Well, you too want the same, as the month begins. Planetary activity indicates beginning of hectic times.

Your Sign Lord Mars, in company of Venus, in 11th House from your Sign, shall encourage gainful monetary returns. And it will prod you to work with great efficiency and intelligence. . Appreciations and praises come your way, promises Ganesha. But, don’t let this success go to your head!

Important Dates 14, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27

Taurus - April 21 - May 22

Gemini - May 23 - Jun 21

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Leo - July 23 - August 22

Virgo - August 23 - October 22

Scorpio - October 23 - Nov 21

Sagittarius - November 22 - Dec 22

You begin the month on a high note. Busy and fluttering around, you will be doing a lot, accomplishing things and forging relationships. Well, well, that’s excellent, but don’t forget the role others play in your success. Give them their due, says Ganesha. Venus and Mars in the 10th House will keep you on toes. You may be occupied with projects and meetings at work.

Important Dates 14, 16, 17, 18, 19, 23, 24, 25, 26

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Capricorn - December 23 - Jan 30

In a mood to experiment, you may be in a hurry to get favourable results, as the month begins. Well, it pays to go slow and measured. Given the in-effect planetary positions, you may remain restless and unhappy.

Relax! It’s not always that life will put you on a pedestal. This applies to your personal as well as professional realm. Venus and Mercury exchange Signs early in October, which is great news.

Important Dates 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27

Aquarius - January 21 - Feb 19

Work takes the centre-stage, as the month begins. Uncertainties in job prospects and insecure future may put you in a dilemma. Many of you may be lookgng for a new job or assignment. You crave freedom now, so working from home or for flexible hours may seem attractive to you. Important Dates 18, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 23, 24, 25,26

Pisces - February 20 - March 20

Month begins on a staid note. Not much happening! But, a little lull is not a bad thing. Anyway, you may be basking in the glory of past weeks. On 3rd, an important task falls in your kitty. This will boost your confidence.

Don’t become complacent, though.

Important Dates 14, 16, 23, 28, 29

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017 — 47

WHATÊS ON!

14 October 2017...

Gayatri Mandir (HSQ) 2017 Diwali Dhamaka 2017 – 6pm at Bracken Ridge State High School. For more information contact Prem Chand premchand1902@gmail.com or visit www.hindusociety.qld.org.au

Tamil Association of Qld Inc proudly presents Deepavali 2017 – Festival of Lights – Mark the date….more details to follow.

Venue: Australian Islamic college, Durack.

For more information contact 0424 046 696 or email tamilassnqld@gmail.com

Thaai Tamil School Annual Day celebration – 5:30pm at Indooroopilly State High School. For more information contact Saradha 0433 791 506

Queensland Telugu Association (QTA) invites you to Dussehra, Deepawali & Christmas Celebrations – 5pm onwards at Coorparoo Secondary College. This year program will be a great fusion of Dance, music, skits and much more by local artists.

For enquiries please contact 0424745678 / 0412112313 / 0423499742

Red Carpet Multicultural Fashion Show – Brisbane’s 1st AIRPLANE concept fashion show – Canape from 5pm onwards at Princess Theatre, Woolloongabba. Show starts at 6:30pm. Book your ticket now to fly with the AIRBUS RCF2017. Price from $45, contact Reena Augustine 0401 229 866 or visit www.redcarpetfunctions.com.au

15 October 2017...

Shirdi Sai Baba – Akhand paat (reading) of Sri Sai Satcharitra – 6am-6pm at Virginia State School Hall. For more information follow on facebook – www.facebook.com/SaiBabaBrisbane or call 0405 392 793

SENIO CITIZENS FIJI SENIOR CIT

20 October 2017...

GOPIO QLD presents Diwali Dinner & Dance Night – 6:30pm at Delights of Paradise, 43 Ipswich Road, Woolloongabba. Antakshri, Raffles, Entertainment. Dress Code: Traditional or business attire. Raffle prize for best dressed individual / family. Cost $35 per head (includes full buffet dinner.

RSVP to Ananya Kaushik – Kaushik.ananya.27@gmail.com

25 – 26 October 2017...

IAM – Integrated Amrita Meditation Technique (FREE) – 7-9pm at 32 Burnside Crescent, Westlake. IAM is a short and simple approach to meditation. It’s a powerful way to reconnect with our real centre and thereby experience true joy and peace in life. Reservations: brisbane@ammaaustralia.org.au or 07 3715 8278. Instructor: Br Shraddhamrita Chhaitanya Senior disciple of Sri Mata Amritanandamayi Devi (Amma).

ASSOCIATION OF QUEENSLAND INC

Annual Seniors Multicultural Dinner at

Coorparoo Secondary College Hall

Cnr Stanley Street East and Cavendish Road

Official Program Starts at 7pm

(Includes multicultural stage program)

Tickets: $20 Adults and Under 12 Free

Contact: Surend 0413004100 * Raj 0410454649 Dan Singh 0413082262 * Hemant 0403336571

Major Sponsors

Coorparoo

11th November, 2017 5.30 to 6.50pm Dinner (Veg and Non-Veg)

@]`RÛAOf]` aÛG·P·`PO\Û=\WbWObWcSÛ:·\RÛÛÛÛ Cr Ian McKenzie (Coorparoo Ward) & Cr Krista Adams (Holland Park Ward) & Brisbane City Council.

Other sponsors ­ Dr Maha Sinnathamby, Target Travel and Tours

29 October 2017...

Gandhi Salt March Limited (an Australian Registered Charity) presents….Power of Peace Festival, Ipswich & Brisbane – The Power of Peace Festival is a community event inspired by Mahatma Gandhi to promote the Gandhi ideals of non-violence, sustainability and inclusiveness. For more information email info@powerofpeacefestival.org / www.powerofpeacefestival.org or follow on facebook facebook.com/powerofpeacefestival

31 October 2017...

Elevate Church: Light Party – a positive alternative to Halloween – 4:30pm – 6:30pm at Grand Avenue School, Forest Lake. Come and celebrate – a celebration of good things that is fun and safe! Free rides, face painting, party food, live band and more. Remember to dress up as something positive (strictly no witches, ghosts or monsters please) for more information contact 0418 745 179 Continued page 50

48 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017

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6,/9(5 6321625

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 49

WHATÊS ON!

Continued from page 48

2 November 2017...

St John’s Cathedral FREE morning Concert – 11-11:50am at St John’s Anglican Cathedral, 413 Ann Street Brisbane. For information and performers details visit www.stjohnscathedral.com.au or call 3835 2222 (9am to 5pm M-F)

4 November 2017...

Simply Human presents: Celebrating Unsung Heroes: Sage of Ordinaries 2017 and Official Launch of SIMPLY HUMAN INC. – details page 49

4 - 5 November 2017...

Calling all dog-tragic Queenslanders…The dog lovers show is finally bounding into Brisbane! – 8am at Royal International Convention Centre – Brisbane Showgrounds, 600 Gregory Terrace, Bowen Hills. For tickets and further information visit www.dogloversshow.com.au/brisbane or follow on facebook www.facebook.com/dogloversshow

11 November 2017...

Fiji Senior Citizens Association of Qld – Annual Seniors Multicultural Dinner – details page 48 25 November 2017...

Shrimad Rajchandra Mission Dharampur presents YUGPURUSH Mahatma’s Mahatma – details page 51

3 December 2017...

Shirdi Sai Baba – Southside aarti & bhajans – refer below

Weekly Events...

Mondays…

Brahma Kumaris Australia – Meditation & Positive Thinking Sessions – Mondays 10.30am to 11.30am: Regular meditation should improve your ability to focus and think clearly. By practising mediations which

cultivate our ability to sense and care for our natural energy we are able to live life with greater awareness and confidence. Each class includes guided meditations, discussions, short talks and the introduction and practice of techniques. Each session is a different topic. Meditation sessions Tuesdays 6.30pm to 7.30 pm and Sundays 5.30pm to 6.30pm. During these sessions there will be meditation commentaries, music and periods of silence. You can come and go at any time during these sessions. Venue: 27 Bordeaux Parade, Mermaid Waters. Please phone to register – 5575 2126. Email goldcoast@au.brahmakumaris.org or visit www.brahmakumaris.org/au/whatson for more information

Brisbane Good Samaritan Prayer Fellowship (Malayam Service) – Congregation on every Sunday from 10am to 12pm at Stafford Scouts, 38 Appleby Road, Stafford, Qld 4053.

For further information contact 0468 358 646 or 0411 269 322. Come and hear the message of your eternal life, GOD BLESS

Picabeen Community Centre – you’re invited to playgroup! – For parents with children aged 0-5 years from all cultures and backgrounds. Come along and meet families from all backgrounds in your community.

Every Monday (Except public holidays) 10am – 12pm. Picabeen Community Centre, 22 Hoben Street, Mitchelton Qld. Phone 3354 2555

Zi Za Dong Zen Association – Energy Healing to improve health and well beings – ZZDZ Assn. Inc is a not for profit charity foundation based in Brisbane. Focusing on energy healing named Qi Gong through meditation, it provides free energy healing sessions and guidance. Practicing Qi Gong will encourage you to achieve a positive outlook on life, by helping to reduce stress and calm your mind.

It also increases vitality, enhances your immune system and helps to eliminate negative attitudes and behaviours. Session Times & Locations: Mondays-Thursday & Saturday

9am – 12pm at 10 Cognac Court, Calamvale.

Thursday afternoon (except 1st week) 3.30pm – 6pm at Sunnybank Hills Shoppingtown Library. 67 Level 2, Cnr Calam & Compton Road. Friday afternoon 2pm-5pm at Logan West Library – 69 Grand Plaza Drive, Brown Plains. For more information email zzdz.aus@gmail.com or visit www.zzdz.org.au

Wednesdays…

Brisbane Good Samaritan Prayer Fellowship (Malayam Service) – Cottage Meeting on every Wednesday from 6.30pm to 8pm at Stafford Scouts, 38 Appleby Road, Stafford, Qld 4053. For further information contact 0468 358 646 or 0411 269 322. Come and hear the message of your eternal life, GOD BLESS

The Mantra Room – Live Kirtan – Spend an evening of sacred Yoga chant with Gayatri, Ishvara, Jayadharma and friends Fridays 6pm, Sundays 5pm and Wednesdays 7pm at Australian School of Meditation & Yoga, 236 Montague Road, West End. Amazing Vego Food $5. Come celebrate, meditate and let the music set you free. For more information call 3844 8441 or email brisbane@asm.org.au

Thursdays…

Sai Baba Aarti Program – Every Thursday 7.30pm – Virginia State School, 1678 Sandgate Road, Virginia (next to Virginia Train Station) Aarti & Archana opportunity for all attendees, Prasad & Dinner provided.

Enquiries call 0405 392 793 / saibababrisbane@gmail.com

Sundays…

Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Qld Inc – Vedic Yaj (Havan) –The Sabha performs Havan Yaj every Sunday from 2-4pm at Queensland Vedic Cultural Centre, 198 Learoyd Rd, Willawong and the public is welcome to be part of it. The members of public now can perform Havan Yaj at the centre. The fee of $50 is required for use of centre facilities to cover operating costs. The Havan Kund, utensils are available for use as well The Havan ingredients can be supplied if you are unable to get them. Mango sticks, Ghee,

Samagri, Chamfor etc is available at the centre as well for $25. The seating capacity of the Yajshalla (Havan Hall) is 100. Contact Vice President Mrs Sushila Pathik for further information and bookings on 3314 6059.

Contact Jitendra Deo 3263 1914 or Hari Chand 3345 4716 or visit www.aryasamajqueensland.com for further information.

Australian Pentecostal Assembly Brisbane – Sunday Worship every Sunday 9am11.30am at 84 The Community Place, 84 Kedron Park Road, Wooloowin Qld with Pastor Prakash Jacob. Cottage Meeting every Tuesday 7.30pm-9pm / Kids Bible Study every Friday 7pm-7.45pm / Intercessory Prayer every Friday 7.45-9pm. Worship in Hindi, English, Malayalam and other Indian Languages. For more information Phone 07 3315 5597 / 0413 347 562 or email info@apabrisbane.com.au / www.apabrisbane.com.au

Bala Samskar Kendra – Hindu Scripture Classes for Children – The aim of Bala Samskar Kendra (BSK) is to provide an opportunity to the children to learn about rich Hindu culture through value based education from various Hindu scriptures and let them gain self-confidence and grow up in to individuals who are proud of their tradition. Every Sunday 2:30pm-5pm at Sunnybank State High School, Sunnybank (use Turton Street entrance). Contact bskqld@live.com.au / Hari 0411 137 396 / Krrishna 0411 776 509 / Ram 0416 813 747 Brisbane Multinational Church Service – Every Sunday 9.30am at 757 Gympie Road Lawnton. Come and join us for a great time of Praise and Worship plus inspired preaching of God’s word. We thrive for the presence of God and are passionate to see people be trained up and grow in the knowledge of the word of God. Special service time to pray for healing, deliverance and other spiritual needs. Enquiries 0424 1802 40.

Full list of events on www.indiantimes.com.a in the what’s on section - including monthly events

Shirdi Sai Baba Weekly Aarti Program Ever Every Ev Thur Thursday Thursda Thursd @ 7.

7 7.30 7.30pm

%DEDnV Mahasamadhi centenary year 15 Oct 2017 r 15 Oct 2018

Upcoming events: Akhand paat (reading) of Sri Sai Satcharitra 15 October r 6am-6pm Southside aarti & bhajans 3 December 5-6.30pm FSCAQ Community Hall 24 Arnwood Pl Annerley

50 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017

Virginia State School hall 1678 Sandgate Rd VIRGINIA (next to Virginia train station) Prasad & Dinner Provided

www.facebook.com/SaiBabaBrisbane M: 0405 392 793

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Call 07 3865 6533

Call 07 3865 6533

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 51

Bollywood & Entertainment Bollywood’s 1st Transparent – Powerbrand - Bollywood Film Journalists & Film makers Award a huge Success!

THE 1st Powerbrand - Bollywood Film Journalists & Film makers Award, organised by Planman Media, was a resounding success held at Hotel Novotel, Juhu, Mumbai on September 11th, 2017. Guest of honour and hall of fame Power couple Rishi Kapoor & Neetu Singh were the cynosure of everyone present there. Director Rakesh Omprakash Mehra too was present to support the very genuine and transparent award voted by the films journalist, who primarily comprised of the voting jury members. Arindam Chaudhuri, the man behind Planman Media thanked the voting jury profusely for their integrity and courage in voting in a very transparent manner.

Besides the winners who came to collect the awards, the other celebrities present were Divya Dutta, Manjari Fadnis, Indrani Haldar, Daboo Ratnani, singers Shweta Pandit, Shaan, Neeraj Shridhar, Ankit Tiwari. Planman Media’s Arindam Chaudhuri, Rajita Chaudhuri & Arundhati played the perfect host to the Bollywood guests, and the power packed corporate and brand managers present. Her Excellency, Dr. Najma Heptulla (Governor of Manipur) was the Chief Guest.

Planman Media Arindam Chaudhuri, says, “I hope one day Aamir Khan takes back his vow of not attending any awards functions and makes his first appearance here due to its completely transparent nature. What makes these awards special is the fact that not just winners, but the associate winners will also be felicitated. After all movie making is a tedious process and if you are the second best out of hundreds of films released every year, you surely are no less than the winner itself.”

Besides the other unique aspect of the award was to honour outstanding Journalist/Critics who have contributed immensely in the Bollywood Ecosystem. Celebrated Journalist & Trade analysts like Meena Iyer, Ram Kamal Mukherjee & Taran Adarsh were awarded for their contribution to the film industry.

On the occasion of the launch of the awards, a coffee table book, Bollywood’s 70 Most Iconic Power Brands, written by Arindam and Rajita Chaudhuri was also launched. The book that celebrates 70 years of Indian Independence, takes a peak into the most powerful icons of Bollywood. The book is one of the greatest tributes to the Most Powerful Living Icons of Bollywood ...The Power Brands of Bollywood. A grand research driven design marvel that showcases the 70 Most Powerful Living Icons of Bollywood through a 2-page tribute to each of them.

“Bollywoods 70 Iconic Power Brands” features 20 each of the most powerful male and

Hrithik Roshan breaks his silence on the infamous spat with Kangana Ranaut

female actors, 20 of the most powerful producers, directors and distributors and 10 of the most powerful musicians!!! One of the 20 most iconic and powerful film makers of Bollywood in the book; The First Power Brands-Bollywood Film Journalists & Film Makers Awards, organised by Planman Media, began with a mission and vision to recognize excellence and honour the finest in cinematic achievements, with high integrity and transparency and become the true voice of creative filmmaking in Bollywood.

Recent surveys have proved that viewers are being dismissive of the plethora of popular awards being dished out, which have been ‘contaminated’ with star power, and have wandered away from celebrating true talent, to become a mainstream big publicity party.

After making 4 National Award Winning films Do Dooni Chaar, The Last Lear, Dosar and Faltu... and the cult classic Mithya, Planman group brings one of the most pioneering efforts to change the awards landscape in Bollywood with the Power Brand- Bollywood Awards. The awards would like to question the status quo and stand out distinctively from the ‘crowded’ awards scene, and represent the true voice of those who really matter, by being a fair award through the first of its kind open ballot voting. It is akin to an ‘Honesty Oscars’ where the voting jury will consist primarily of Critics/Reviewers, important Journalists, directors & producers who are one in the spirit of transparency and accountability. Planman Media would like the spirit of the award to grow organically every year.

This first Open Ballot completely transparent awards in Bollywood had the votes of the ’Honorary’ jury displayed online in a transparent manner each against their names. It’s a celebration of the spirited pioneers representing the landscape of good cinema, who bring a unique vision to filmmaking. It requires courage in an industry where relationships are supposed to be important, to come out transparently and give your votes through an open ballot mechanism.

The emphasis will also be on emerging helmers, and the awards’ will represent a more consistent view of diversity, an important platform for emerging independent voices and celebrate masterfully written movies, Independent spirit of the directors, & actors. Power Brand Bollywood Award will also be given as an honorary version of the prize to legends who have made important contributions to the Bollywood film industry.

52 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017

THE infamous spat between forlorn alleged lovers Hrithik Roshan and Kangana Ranaut sees no end. The controversy that stirred infinite debates and became the topic of discussion for every industry insider saw a remark from the horse's mouth itself.

On Thursday (5 October) afternoon, Hrithik Roshan took to his Facebook page and poured his heart out. The actor shared that he has never met the "lady in question one on one" (Kangana) and also asserted on the fact that an alleged 7-year long, passionate affair between two high profile celebrities had no trail left behind. "No evidence, no paparazzi pictures, no witnesses, not even a memento," he wrote.

While Kangana spoke her mind in various interviews before the release of her recent film 'Simran', Hrithik has now broken his silence.

Here's what he wrote: "I choose to be on a path of creativity, productivity and constructive work. Anything that isn't in alignment with that, I tend to ignore, sidestep and treat as a distraction.

I believe that ignorance, non reaction and staying on the path of dignity is the best way to discourage any persistent unwanted intrusions. But Just like a nagging health issue sometimes ignored can turn malignant, this situation for me has unfortunately turned malignant.

In case of the matter at hand, it seems the media has no intention of letting go.

I don't see any grace in adding to this circus by testifying in defence of my character in a situation that I have no involvement in whatsoever.

I have been dragged into a dirty perverse mess without a choice in the matter. This is something that is not of my making.

The truth is, I have never met the lady in question one on one in my entire life. Yes, we have worked together, but there has been no meeting in private. Thats the truth.

Please understand, I am not fighting against an allegation of an affair. Or being childish trying to uphold a 'good guy" image. I am very aware of my faults, I am human.

I am in fact protecting myself from something far more serious, sensitive and destructive than that.

Sadly, very few from the media or the public seem to be interested in the truth. This has been a hard-learnt fact for me.

If the people are comfortable with a lie because it doesn't threaten their model of the world where a girl is the victim and the man the aggressor then so be it. I am ok with that too.

Women have suffered centuries of abuse at the hands of men and it infuriates me how some men can be so brutal and they deserve the

www.indiantimes.com.au

harshest punishment. But by that logic if it ordains that one man can't be vulnerable and one woman can't be a liar, so be it. I'm ok with that too.

An alleged 7-year long, passionate affair between two high profile celebrities with no trail left behind.

No evidence, no paparazzi pictures, no witnesses, not even a memento in possession like a selfie taken at the alleged engagement which is claimed to have happened in Paris in Jan 2014. Nothing that constitutes an exchange or any sort of proof of a romantic relationship.

Yet we want to believe the other party because the rhetoric is -why would a girl lie.

My passport details show no travel outside the country in Jan 2014, which is the date that this alleged engagement supposedly took place. In Paris.

The only so-called proof presented of this alleged "relationship", was a photoshopped picture in the media. This was immediately exposed, the very next day by friends including my ex-wife.

These questions are not even asked, because we are taught to protect the woman, as we should. I myself have been brought up to think the same way, by my parents and the wonderful women in my life who have been my rock and support system. I'm deeply grateful to them. I will do my best to teach my children the same values of family and dignity. And yes, I will teach them to stand up for women. Always.

There are 3000 one sided mails which either I have sent to myself or the woman in question has sent to me. The Cyber-Crime Dept. can prove or disprove either story, in just a few days. Towards that purpose, I have surrendered all my devices including laptops / phones etc which are still lying with the cyber cell , but the other party has refused to do so.

The investigation hasn't been closed.

This is not, and I repeat, not a lovers spat. I humbly request people to stop labelling it as one and, for a second, try and see it for what it really is.

I have been harassed by this for 4 years and the well meaning and probably necessary social bias toward women has deemed me helpless in defending myself.

I am not angry, I have seldom allowed anger into my life. I have not had a single fight in my life, with a man or a woman. Even in my divorce, there was no fight. I, and those around me, have always chosen peace.

I am not here to accuse or judge anyone, but it's time I defend the truth because when truth suffers the collective consciousness of society suffers. Civilization suffers. Closer to home, families suffer. Children suffer."

Call 07 3865 6533

• Cast and crew of Sangeet Mela 2017 - many thanks to everyone who supported the event!

Sangeet Mela 2017 SANGEET Mela 2017 - the 4th edition of Australia’s premiere Indian classical music & dance festival - was held at Queensland Multicultural Centre on Saturday 4th September.

The audience were treated to a beautiful bouquet of Indian classical items featuring local young Rising Star Award winners, interstate and international stars.

The organisers of Sangeet Mela plan to delay next year’s event to Autumn 2019 and call on all local community groups to support

Indian classical arts by working together to promote this glorious celebration of the world’s supreme artform.

We will be reaching out in an effort to make Sangeet Mela and Indian classical arts the focus of community attention for the day.

Please contact Shen at shen@sangeetmela.org or 0415 106 428 to get involved.

- Photo’s by Brian Sullivan.

• Sheena Rinky Bala, student of Smt Namita Debroy, • Rising Star Award presentation - L to R: Sairam Kannaian (Platinum sponsor Yoga King), Rising Star presented Kathak dance with live ensemble of top Award winners Madhuvanthi Muralidharan (Carnatic vocal) and Sheena Rinky Bala (Kathak dance), • Tabla solo by Sri Simranjit Singh of Amritsar, currently resident at Logan Rd Gurudwara.

Sangeet Premi Club Secretary Usha Chivukula, Sangeet Mela Festival Director Shen Flindell. local artists.

• Bansuri solo by Sri Taro Terahara (Japan) with tabla accompaniment by Sri Maharshi Raval (Sydney).

• Right: Bharatanatyam dance performance by Smt Padmalakshmi Sriram and her daughter Shivani Sriram.

• Saraswathi Veena recital by Smt Nirmala Rajasekar (Chennai/USA) • Sarod recital by Sri Rahul Bhattacharya (Melbourne) with tabla accompaniment by Sri • Hindustani vocal recital by Smt Sunita Tikare with Sri Ganesh Prasad (violin) and Sri Murugaboopathi Simranjit Singh.

(Mumbai) (mridangam).

Call 07 3865 6533

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017 — 53

Sports News Picking right players for each formats key to success: Kohli

RANCHI: India skipper Virat Kohli on Saturday 7 October attributed the team's stupendous success in recent times to the team management's decision to pick format-specific players.

The decision to persist with wrist spinners like Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal has proved to be beneficial for the team since the start of the Sri Lanka series.

"It has not only been a combined effort of the players but also the management group, which has given great ideas. Picking specialist players for formats, picking mystery bowlers (Kuldeep), giving them confidence.

They can give runs in one game, but they will always hit back," Kohli said at the postmatch presentation ceremony.

He praised his new ball bowlers Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah.

"Bhuvi and Bumrah have been brilliant in limited-overs lately. You need to be able to execute yorkers and slower balls and you need the skill. But you need to have a good head as well, make batsmen hit the wrong areas."

The skipper is also happy that Shikhar

Dhawan is back after a short break due to his wife's illness.

"It was unfortunate for Dhawan to miss out on so many games but he is back and even this innings of 15 will give him confidence."

Kohli also said that he thought after restricting Australia to 118 for eight, the D/L par score would have been less than 40.

"We don't really understand the Duckworth Lewis method. After getting them down to 118, we thought it would only be 40 or something. 48 was tricky," Kohli said.

Kuldeep was happy with his maiden Man of the Match award.

He was happy that he could understand Aaron Finch's intentions and bowl accordingly.

"The first couple of balls, I saw what he was doing, later on I set him up for the sweep shot. So I knew he wasn't going to hit me over mid-off, so I planned that overpitched ball to bowl him.

"I always think about getting wickets and that's all that matters for me and the team.

Getting more confidence day by day, game by game."

TOI

Rafael Nadal punishes penalised Nick Kyrgios to win China Open BEIJING: World number one Rafael Nadal won his sixth title of another remarkable year as he punished a disgruntled Nick Kyrgios at the China Open on Sunday 8 October.

The 31-year-old Spaniard was never really in trouble against the temperamental Australian in a 6-2, 6-1 rout in 92 minutes on Beijing's outside hard courts.

Nadal, a 16-time Grand Slam winner, came to the Chinese capital on the back of winning his third US Open.

He saved two match points in his nervy opener against Frenchman Lucas Pouille.

But after that Nadal sliced through the opposition to win the China Open for the first time since making his debut in Beijing in 2005.

Since then Nadal has gone on to become one of the greatest players of all time and he underlined his brilliance in swatting aside the

Under 17 World Cup: Brazil win clash of little titans KOCHI: Spain started their U-17 World Cup campaign against Brazil like a Ferrari, but five minutes into their journey it seemed as if they had exhausted all their fuel.

Stung by an early own goal, the emerging talent from Brazil showed they are a resolute lot, just like their illustrious predecessors. Brazil dominated their rivals for the rest of the game to register a 2-1 comeback win in their U-17 World Cup opener here at the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium on Saturday 7 October. The win gave Brazil a vital three points and a head start in the 'group of death'.

Incidentally, all the three goals in the game were scored by the Brazilians, with Wesley's own goal putting Spain ahead before the 'little Canerians' got back in the game with goals from and Lincoln and Paulinho in the first half.

But the first five minutes of the match were in sharp contrast to how the rest of the script panned out. Brazil were all at sea as soon as the game got under way as Spanish winger Ferran Torres tore open their defence with raids down the right wing twice in the first few minutes.

In the first instance, his cross found an unmarked Mohamed Moukhliss, but his shot was parried away by Brazilian goalkeeper Gabriel Brazao. But on the second occasion, Torres worked his magic with his deft footwork and sent a low cross into the box, where an unmarked Moukhliss was waiting to slot the ball in. But before the ball reached Moukhliss, Wesley slid in to thwart danger, only to see the ball brush his leg and reach the back of the net.

Down by a goal in the game,

54 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2017

Brazilians didn't let their heads drop and slowly clawed their way back into the match. The triumvirate of Brenner, Paulinho and Lincoln, who were kept quiet in the first quarter of the match, slowly began to get into their stride and the Brazilian moves began to gather momentum.

In the 17th minute, Marcus Antonio split open the Spanish defence with a ball played to Paulinho. But the Brazilian forward's shot was blocked by goalkeeper Alvaro Fernandez. The www.indiantimes.com.au

ball fell at Lincoln's feet but the striker lost his balance and his attempted shot on goal went wide.

It didn't take too long for Brazil to equalise, though. Lincoln made amends for his earlier miss by getting onto the scoresheet in the 25th minute. He collected an excellent cross from Brenner from the left wing and slotted it away past the Spanish goalkeeper to make it level. Spain were dealt a blow in the 34th minute when defender Mateu Jaume was injured and substituted by Victor Perea. After Jaume's substitution, Marcus Antonio began to get some space in the Spanish half and the Brazil midfielder made full. In the added-on time in the first half, Antonio lobbed the ball above Spain's defensive line to find an unmarked Paulinho and the striker beat the off-side trap to fire the ball in and put Brazil ahead.

Spain couldn't create many chances in the second half and their much-hyped striker Abel Ruiz was a big disappointment.

Spain's appeal for a penalty in the penultimate minute was turned down by the referee as Brazilians walked away with deserving three points.

TOI

22-year-old Kyrgios.

The world-ranked 19 displayed his best side in forcing Nadal to 2-2 in the first set, but his other side emerged later.

Kyrgios was already on a warning from the umpire from the first game of the match for something he said.

And when he went down 30-0 on Nadal's serve at 2-2, he began the first in a series of lengthy discussions with the umpire - frequently spreading his arms in despair.

The Australian, going for a fourth career title, shook his head and continued the discussion as he trudged back to his chair, initially to whistles from the crowd and then cheers to encourage him.

Kyrgios, whose undoubted talent has often been overshadowed by his on-court conduct, collected a penalty point as his title hopes quickly evaporated.

TOI

Super Sandhu wins first Asian Tour title at Yeangder TPC

TAIPEI: Indian golfer Ajeetesh Sandhu fired a superb two-under 70 to clinch his maiden Asian Tour title at the USD 500,000 Yeangder Tournament Players Championship (TPC) on Sunday 8 October.

The 28-year-old sunk three birdies against a lone bogey to return with a winning total of 12-under 276 to defeat USA's Johannes Veerman (71) by one-shot at the Linkou International Golf and Country Club.

With the victory Sandhu took home USD 90,000 including a two-year winner's exemption on the Asian Tour.

"I'm still shaking from the last putt but now that I'm thinking about it, it is absolutely amazing," said Sandhu after becoming only the second player from India after Gaganjeet Bhullar to win the Yeangder TPC. "I thought I would be a lot more nervous than what I was but after I got back to the hotel yesterday (round 3), I had so much of support from India. So many people, including people I don't know were messaging me.

That really calmed me down.

"I'm proud of myself that I was able to focus on my own my game. I was just trying to hit the next shot the best that I could and I won," added Sandhu, who is also the second player after Jazz Janewattananond to win an event without a full Tour card.

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