October 2023 - Online edition

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

Volume 20, Number 2 Saturday, October 14th, 2023

As God is One, we respect all Religions

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 07 3268 6188 Seoul, September 18, 2023, The 9th Anniversary of the September 18th HWPL World Peace Summit kicked off in Incheon, Republic of Korea, under the theme ‘Implementation of Multidimensional Strategies for Institutional Peace’.

Over 1,800 leaders from different sectors, including former heads of state, religious leaders, public representatives and lawyers,

are attending the Summit, which has been organised by the International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG) in partnership with Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) and International Peace Youth Group.

Addressing the Global Peace Leaders Conference held on the same day as part of the Peace Summit, the Chairwoman of IWPG,

Hyun Sook Yoon, stressed the need for concerted efforts to promote multilateral strategies for institutional peace.

She explained that, among others, peace lecture programs are introduced to high educational institutions and peace competitions among youths and children launched in various parts of the globe as part of the efforts CONTD. ON PG 51

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Inside

• Local News ..................................4-37 • Real Estate ................................12-15 • wwww ...................................... 26-27 • India News ..................................... 38 • Fiji News ......................................... 40 • Entertainment .............................. 42 • Health & Well Being .................... 44 • Business Directory/Classified ... 47 • Sports News ................................... 48

A Division of Qld Multicultural Times Published Monthly OWNERS / PUBLISHERS: Umesh Chandra OAM & Usha Chandra ADVERTISING: 0430 193 715 sales@indiantimes.com.au JOURNALIST/ CORRESPONDENTS • Thakur Ranjit Singh (NZ) • Thilliar Varnakulasingham (NZ) • Shalendra Prasad (Fiji) • Rama Gaind (Canberra) • Ml. Nawaaz Ashrafi • Imam Muhammad Aslam • Pastor Joseph Dass • Haji Abdul Rahman Deen • Jitendra Deo • Nimisha Modi • Ranjita Pillai (Immigration Matters) • Peter Lane Rai • Awadhesh Sharma • Shailendra Singh • Gagan deep Tandon • Ravi Vastrad • Brian Sullivan (Photography) • Amod Datar • Rajesh Chand • Ashok Attri Address: PO Box 197, Taigum Qld 4018 Ph: (07) 3192 5188 Fax: (07) 3865 5864 E-mail: prod@indiantimes.com.au Subscriptions: 12 months 6 months Brisbane Indian Times is a monthly newspaper published in English. No material, including advertisements designed by Brisbane Indian Times, may be reproduced in part or who without the written consent of the manager.

Opinions carried in Brisbane Indian Times are those of the writers and not necessarily endorsed by Brisbane Indian Times. Brisbane Indian Times will not be held liable for any advertising / editorial content - Advertisers supply / approve content therefore should any content be deemed inappropriate it is the advertisers / correspondents responsibility.

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

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From the Editor: If you would like us to publish your letters, feedback, comments on any of our stories or suggest ideas columns or features, please send your submissions to: Brisbane Indian Times Suite 5, 2281 Sandgate Road Boondall Qld 4034 or E-mail: prod@indiantimes.com.au

2 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023

From the Publisher Welcome to our October Edition, as we get ready for Navratri and the upcoming Diwali, Navratri, according to Drikpanchang, will begin on Sunday, 15th October, and the ninth night will be 23rd October, with the tenth (Dashami) on 24th October. Shardiya Navratri is the most popular and significant Navratri of all Navratris. That's why Shardiya Navratri is also known as Maha Navratri.

It falls in the lunar month Ashwin during Sharad Ritu. The name Shardiya Navratri has been taken from Sharad Ritu. All nine days during Navratri are dedicated to the nine forms of Goddess Shakti. Shardiya Navratri falls in September or October. The nine-day festivity culminates on the tenth day with Dussehra or Vijaya Dashami.

Diwali 2023, as per Drikpanchang, begins on 9th November (Ekadashi), Laxmi Poojan on 13th November, (Amavasya) Goverdhan pooja will be on 14th and Bhai Dooj on 15th November.

Diwali, also known as Deepawali, is the most famous festival of the year. Diwali is the five-day festivity period that begins on Dhanteras and ends on Bhaiya Dooj.

During the day festivity, various rituals are followed, and with Goddess Lakshmi, several other Gods and Goddesses are worshipped. However, Goddess Lakshmi is the most significant deity during Diwali Puja. The new moon day, Amavasya, is the most important day of the five days of Diwali festivities and is known as Lakshmi Puja, Lakshmi-Ganesh Puja and Diwali Puja.

Well, to our twentieth-anniversary celebrations, we would like to thank everyone who took time out of their busy schedules to participate in our celebration.

Special thanks to the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress for being there for us; it meant a lot to us. Our sincere apologies to many whom we could not invite as this was a small function of advertisers and correspondents mainly, and we had to draw a line somewhere; the venue staff

were just great, and our team, including Usha Chandra, Dilraj Kaur Dhillon, Preethi Suraj, Mayuresh Lande, Deepak Singh, Zain Chams Sam and Sabnam Abdul did a fantastic job, what a team.

And now, to my Korea trip, representing GOPIO International; what a proud privilege to participate in this world peace summit attended by global community leaders. This being my first trip to South Korea, I was pleasantly surprised to find it a highly advanced and developed country. I had no idea they drove like the Americans; all jokes aside, this was a fantastic experience, being in the company of like-minded people of different faiths. The event was par excellence in organisation; there were more volunteers than attendees, and all were humble and generous. Each attendee had a protocol officer allocated to them, and the protocol officer accompanied you everywhere and ensured everything was in order. The full article is featured as the front-page article this month.

Congratulations to GOPIO Sydney Northwest for holding their 14th annual sharing and caring event at Sapphire Function Centre from Korea; I flew straight to Sydney to attend this event as chief guest representing GOPIO International.

Well done, GOPIO Sydney Northwest; the team flies to India to distribute shoes and blankets to the needy and poor in villages.

It was good to be with many friends who have been long-standing members of the chapter.

I also represented GOPIO International as a speaker at GOPIO Queensland's annual Gandhi Jayanti held on 2 October at Gandhi Statue, near gate six of Roma Street, Parkland. Overall, it is a hectic time representing GOPIO International as the highest-ranking officer in the Oceania region; it is my duty to attend and support as many local chapters as possible, and internationally, GOPIO International has to be represented at as many global events as possible.

While I was away in Korea, Usha attended many functions. She represented Brisbane Indian Times and Australian Indian Radio. We apologise for many events that we missed due to time restraints or multiple events simultaneously. As mentioned earlier, we endeavour to support and attend as many functions and events as possible.

Our best wishes to many organisations that are raising funds for their projects, and those who have signed contracts for land purchase and need funds to complete the settlement; please support wherever you can, as we know that community work requires a lot of time and effort, your contribution will go a long way in helping these projects.

I must finish off now, wishing you all the very best for the upcoming festive season leading us to the last quarter of this year.

Until next month Happy reading —Umesh Chandra OAM Publisher

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023 — 3

Stylish Sunway surroundings for Black Tap in Malaysia

By Rama Gaind Some might debate the quote about there being no sincere love than the love of food, but sometimes a little comfort food can go a long way. Add to that a taste worth remembering, especially when it comes to beating the heat, and you will be living a happy milkshake life!

Such was the notable experience at the Sunway Resort Hotel at Sunway City Kuala Lumpur. The hotel has introduced the attitude and energy of New York City to Malaysians with the launch of Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes, the awardwinning restaurant brand that specialises in mouthwatering craft burgers and its world-famous CrazyShake milkshakes.

It was a delectable afternoon: the best burgers provide a combination of tastes and textures – sweet, sour, salt – with a bit of crunch.

Wasn’t that what was implied by Samuel L Jackson (in his character role as Jules Winnfield) in Pulp Fiction, the 1994 American neonoir black comedy crime film written and directed

by Quentin Tarantino. Yes. “That is a tasty burger.”

This edgy, urban concept

restaurant – the first-ever Black Tap venture into Malaysia, – offers a casual vibe reminiscent of a classic American luncheonette with a distinctly New York feel, complete with ‘80s and ‘90s hip-hop and pop music and art-covered walls.

Owned by husband-andwife team Chris Barish and Julie Mulligan, Black Tap first arrived on the New York food scene in 2015 and has since expanded to several locations in the US, including The Venetian Resort Las Vegas, Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort, and internationally in Bahrain, Singapore, Switzerland and the UAE. The façade and interior features mural art by Kenji Chai, the famous Malaysian street artist whose iconic, era-defining designs have adorned the walls of cities across the country – including the tallest mural in Malaysia!

Within these stylish surroundings, diners can sit back and savour an amazing array of allAmerican dishes, elevated to the highest level of whimsicality and originality, featuring a delectable menu of American comfort food, including burgers, sandwiches and salads – but not as you know it!

Burger choices Try tackling Black Tap’s all-time and award-winning favourite Black Tap Burgers, including the mighty Texan Burger, Crispy Chicken Sandwich or of course, the Greg Norman Burger of wagyu beef topped with house buttermilk-dill, blue cheese and arugula served

Black Tap has introduced its iconic burgers to Malaysia.

Sunway Resort Hotel at Sunway City Kuala Lumpur. on a soft potato bun. It is a three-time People’s Choice Award Winner at the NYC Wine & Food Festival’s ‘Burger Bash’.

Accompany these dramatic dishes with a choice of sensational CrazyShake milkshakes that are piled high with sweet treats and tempting toppings.

Choose from options such as The Cookie Shake, a vanilla cookie shake with a vanilla frosted rim with cookie crumbles topped with a ‘cookiewich’, crumbled cookies, chocolate chips, whipped cream and chocolate drizzle, the Sweet ‘N Salty, a peanut butter shake which is stacked with a sugar daddy, pretzel rods, chocolate covered pretzel, whipped cream,

and caramel and chocolate drizzle, and the Cotton Candy shake, a riot of colour with cotton candy, blue and pink rock candy, a pink and white whirly pop, and crowned with cotton candy.

Ideal for those who have a sweet tooth!

It’s from here, in the heart of Sunway City Kuala Lumpur – Asia's leading fully- integrated premier hospitality and entertainment destination – that you will discover worldclass dining at Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill, hop between exhilarating rides at Sunway Lagoon theme park or indulge in retail therapy at Sunway Pyramid shopping mall.

Located just 35 minutes from Kuala Lumpur

Black Tap has introduced its CrazyShake milkshakes to Malaysia.

International Airport, this hotel has sweeping views of the theme park and Sunway City skyline. The inter-connected shopping mall and theme park means you can hop from elegant boutiques to exhilarating rides within minutes.

Let your children revel in the excitement of Waterventure, a dedicated

fun-filled zone featuring shallow pools, a water playground and a host of exhilarating recreational activities.

It’s always a good time for burgers. Certainly, at Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes.

Tasty, delicious burgers.

Shakes that are blended, not stirred. Definitely, this is the place to chill out!

LET YOUR YES BE YES AND YOUR NO BE NO!

Pastor Suresh Dass Joseph josephdass@optusnet.com.au Dear reader, it is our joy to bring to you the word of God. Today, I want to talk about "saying yes and saying no." It is easy to fall into the trap of saying more than what is required. Most times, talking too much is a sign of weakness and insecurity.

Jesus said, "Let your yes be yes and your no be no, for anything more comes from the evil one." So, the question is, "Why is it so difficult to say no?" Often, we are

afraid to say no because we are concerned that people will not like us. For others, it stems from childhood.

From an early age, children are taught to be polite and forthcoming. Again, for some people, saying no is packed with guilt. They are afraid of disappointing someone.

Or they have become people pleasers.

The book of Proverbs says, "Stop trying to please everyone, for the fear of people is a dangerous trap."

You must understand that keeping everyone happy is not your job. The only person you are responsible for keeping happy is yourself. So, when you find the courage to say no, it's a sign of self-respect and indicates that you also have your own needs to attend.

In the scriptures (Daniel 3), the King of Babylon made a large image of gold. The King's word was that at the sound of music, everyone

4 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023

in his kingdom was to bow down and worship the image. But Shadrach Meshach and Abed-Nego, the three Hebrew boys, refused to do so. They said "no" to the King. The King was furious and had them thrown in a burning fiery furnace. But to the King's amazement, he saw four men in the fire, and the fourth man looked like the son of God. The King called the boys out of the fire and promoted them. This time they said "yes" to the King.

Here are 3 things we can learn from the King and the Hebrew teenagers.

1. Limit what you say yes to. You should never be under pressure to say yes to everyone. It is a trap.

When the boys refused the King's command, they were showing self-respect. The power to say no means you are willing to place healthy

boundaries around yourself.

That you care about who God made you to be.

2. Resist the pressure to give an immediate response.

When the King demanded to know why they would not bow to his image. The boys replied, "O king, we do not need to answer

you." You simplify your life when you do not commit to someone or something without consulting your calendar and praying about it. Waiting on important matters is a powerful position for you to take, and you won't be disappointed.

3. When you say "no"

today, it could mean you will say "yes" to something important later. When the King commanded them to bow at his image, they refused. But when he called them out of the fire and promoted them, they said, "Yes." God bless you.

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Don’t Raise Your Kids; Let Them Grow Sadhguru: A few hundred years ago, John Wilmot, an English lord, said something significant about parenting: “Before I got married, I had six theories about bringing up children. Now I have six children and no theories.”

Unfortunately, people have been made to believe that children are born improper and we have to correct them. If you look at parents and children, at least children below ten years of age are definitely more joyful.

So who should be the consultant for life – those who are more joyful, or those who are falling apart within themselves because they do not know how to handle their offspring? Children emulate what you do. If you set an example as someone worth looking up to, you do not have to do much parenting.

Before you decide to have a child, you must evaluate yourself in every aspect – the way you sit, stand, speak, and react to situations. Ask yourself, if you were a five-year-old, would you like and look up to this person? Another thing you could do is spend sufficient time with children to see if they like you, and if you like them.

This way, a lot of wisdom would blossom, and fertility

clinics would close down.

If you already have a child, all you have to do is create a loving, supportive, and invigorating atmosphere. There is really nothing to teach. What you know about life that the child does not know are just a few tricks of the world, how to survive and how to make a living. These tricks need not be taught to children too early. Right now, when a child enters your life, it is time to learn, not to teach. If they are moving towards danger, exercise your wisdom.

Otherwise, children are able to conduct life more joyfully than you. Learn those aspects from them.

You have to physically nourish and mentally ignite children about things. The simplest way is to take them out into nature, where everything, from an insect to a flower, is exciting. If instead you take your children out, make them climb a tree, walk somewhere with them, take them for a swim, the child will grow up physically and mentally healthy.

Nowadays it’s not uncommon to find threeyear-old kids glued to the television or smartphone screen. And we don't know what they are taking in because one moment,

6 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023

somebody is talking about creating a beautiful world, the next moment there is a bombing happening. Every parent needs to think about what they want to expose their children to.

The exposure that they have had is what will stick

with them for life, not a moral teaching.

This may sound extreme, but I think if people want to have children, they should be ready to retire with them to a natural space for at least two months in a year,

rather than living in cities or apartments. Children need to be in nature if you want them to be healthy and balanced.

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

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

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023 — 7

Inaugural Forest Lake Ward Teeyan

By Nayda Hernandez Misl E Punjab and Forest Lake Ward Councillor Charles Strunck co-hosted the inaugural Forest Lake Ward Teeyan on Saturday 2nd, September at the Lake State, Forest Lake. Many residents attended this important traditional Indian festival, celebrated throughout Punjab, making this one of the most successful cultural events this year.

Teeyan, pronounced “Tee-ann”, is a festival that celebrates the beginning of the rainy season when newly married women return to their parental home with open arms and gifts.

Councillor Strunk was excited when approached to co-host this essential local multicultural event in his ward of Forest Lake by Mr and Mrs Kaur, representing Misl E Punjab. Doolandella locals Mandeep and her husband Karan were delighted to work with the Forest Lake Ward office to deliver a successful Tee-ann event that people of Indian heritage, and all could participate in and enjoy in their backyard.

Councillor Strunk said he looked forward to working with Misl E Punjab to cohost the second Teeyan due

to popular demand. I know the importance of making people feel included, having their say and having the opportunity to celebrate an essential cultural event locally. I encourage anyone or group considering hosting

an event to contact me at the Forest Lake Ward office.

“I would like to thank the organisers Madeep, Karan, Sandeep and Misl E Punjab executive, volunteer, my staff, and Brisbane City Council for all their hard work”. He said.

Co-ordinator and MC Mandeep Kaur was delighted that she could bring a significant event that she participated in when she lived in India to Forest Lake.

Mandeep said that it was so amazing to see cultural

Gidah, singing, dancing and hundreds of smiling faces at the event.

Her husband and coorganiser Karan said he would like to thank Cr on behalf of the Misl-E-Punjab club. Charles Strunk allowed

MOSAIC – showcasing Brisbane’s rich and diverse culture On Sunday, 17 September, Brisbane’s Roma Street Parkland was abuzz with a celebration of cultures featuring food, music, dance, storytelling, and craft from around the world.

The MOSAIC Festival Brisbane, sponsored by the Australian Government’s Smartraveller, saw over 12,000 people attend.

Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs Tim Watts, commented on the importance of these events.

“Australia is a thriving multicultural society, home to the oldest continuing civilisation on Earth and where more than half our population was born overseas or has a parent born overseas.”

“Our diversity connects us to every corner of the world, and events like MOSAIC are a great chance to celebrate it,” said Assistant Minister Watts.

“Anyone inspired to travel after visiting MOSAIC should make Smartraveller their first destination.

Smartraveller gives Australians the information they need to prepare and plan their overseas trip and make informed choices.”

Smartraveller provides passports, visas, and travel insurance through detailed travel advice on over 175 destinations. It also offers essential resources in 8 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023

multiple languages.

“Even if you travel regularly, it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest Smartraveller information and subscribe for updates”, said Assistant Minister Watts.

Smartraveller's top tips before going overseas: • Respect the laws of the country you're visiting, as they may differ from those in Australia.

• Be mindful of the culture and places of significance in the regions you explore.

This includes wearing appropriate clothing at places such as temples.

• Use social media responsibly, as posting sensitive content or comments on political issues can have consequences in some countries.

• Keep your bags and belongings close – don’t leave them on the ground or the back of a seat. This gives thieves a perfect opportunity

us to share our culture and activities and helped us fill that cultural gap in the community.

We are currently discussing hosting next year’s Diwali and fundraising event. So, watch this space.

to steal them.

• If you’re hiring equipment, such as jet skis or a quad bike, check it before you use it, and if something seems off, ask for a replacement.

• Make sure you have the correct license for any equipment you hire.

• If travelling alone, take extra precautions, such as using official transport and not disclosing that you're travelling solo.

• Don’t forget your travel insurance; read the fine print on your policy.

• Leave a copy of your travel itinerary and insurance details with someone back in Australia.

• If you don’t already have a passport, allow six weeks to renew or apply.

For more information about Smartraveller and to access their travel advice please visit https://www.smartraveller. gov.au/consular-services/ communities

A Dream Unveiled Arista Homes Delivered Everything We Wanted The Augustine Heights couple’s journey began with a shared vision of their family’s future. To turn that vision into a reality, they started exploring display homes and interviewing housebuilders. Their quest for the ideal home builder commenced at Covella Estate in Greenbank before leading them to the impressive Whiterock Estate.

“For us, Whiterock was the perfect fit for our family. We are currently living at Augustine Heights and have enjoyed our nine years residing in this wonderful suburb and we believe that Whiterock’s meticulously crafted masterplan will be our future home within the next few years”, said Beettu Thomas, father of three.

For Beettu and Subi, Whiterock was the perfect canvas upon which to paint their future. Everything aligned when they met Geoff Short, the Sales Manager at Arista Homes. Within a mere two weeks, they signed the contract for their dream home,

a serendipitous match with the Georgina house design. But what truly won their hearts was Arista Homes’ unwavering commitment to accommodating their needs.

Some modifications to the floor plan were made without a fuss, a testament to their dedication.

Subi was impressed by Arista Homes’ responsiveness, honesty, and approachability in all their communications. The process of building their dream home became a partnership, characterised by a genuine understanding of their family’s unique requirements.

“Arista built our home with 4 large bedrooms, a separate lounge with fireplace and private courtyard, study nook, expansive kitchen with a walk-through butler’s pantry to the mudroom. The home was built within 5 months and the finishes are premium quality. From the moment we first stepped inside the house we truly appreciated its grandeur.”

But for the next few years, their future home stands proudly as the Arista Homes display home at Whiterock Estate. This suits Beettu and Subi perfectly. Whiterock is still growing as a community and when the time comes to move into our home the development will be finished and we will be able to enjoy everything from Whiterock’s 34 hectares of parklands, sports fields, and community clubhouse, plus the adventure playground and local shopping centre will be all within a leisurely stroll from our home.

“Currently, our future home is the Arista Homes display home at Whiterock, please drop by and see for yourself how beautiful it is!”

Arista Whiterock Display Home is open 7 days 10am to 4pm or other times by appointment 41 Foley Way, White Rock QLD 4306

Beettu and Subi Thomas with their three children at their Whiterock home.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023 — 9

Twentieth-anniversary celebration of

Brisbane Indian Times

th

BRISBANE, On 29th September, the Brisbane Indian Times' twentieth anniversary was celebrated in grand style at Stamford Plaza Hotel, Brisbane.

Lord Mayor Rt Hon Adrian Schrinner and Lady Mayoress were the chief guests. The guests included advertisers, correspondents, and Australian Indian Radio presenters. Hosts Umesh and Usha Chandra apologised that they could not extend the invitations beyond that as a line had to be drawn somewhere.

The beautiful evening began with networking cocktails and canapes in the foyer of the Grand Ball Room, which overlooks the beautiful Brisbane River. Zan Chams MC started the official program by welcoming the official party to the stage. The official party included Swami Atmeshananda ji, Umesh Chandra OAM, Mrs Usha Chandra, Lady Mayoress and Lord Mayor.

The formal proceedings began with a universal prayer and blessing by Swami Atmeshananda Ji, following which MC Zain acknowledged the long list of dignitaries present.

He then invited Umesh Chandra OAM for his formal welcome as the host.

“Lets Bollywood” dance group performed their first number after Umesh’s speech; after the dance item, there was a slide presentation of the twentyyear journey of Brisbane Indian Times.

Umesh Chandra paid special tribute to Late Parmesh Chand and shed light on the digital publication and the National Archives of Australia.

After the dance, the official party and team members cut a special twentieth-anniversary cake. The right hon Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner spoke next; he emphasised that Brisbane Indian Times, as a small business, had done well to survive the twenty years of

The beautiful evening began with networking cocktails and canapes in the foyer of the Grand Ball Room, which overlooks the beautiful Brisbane River. Zan Chams MC started the official program by welcoming the official party to the stage. The official party included Swami Atmeshananda ji, Umesh Chandra OAM, Mrs Usha Chandra, Lady Mayoress and Lord Mayor.

57a Kenmore Road, Kenmore QLD 4069 | www.brisbanedurgatemple.com Mr. Umesh and Mrs.Usha Chandra Brisbane Indian Times 501 Adelaide Street, Brisbane, Queensland 4000 Dear Mr. Umesh and Mrs. Usha Chandra, RE: 20 Years of Outstanding Service to the Brisbane Indian Community Times on its momentous I am writing to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Brisbane Indian ty. This milestone not communi Indian Brisbane the to service occasion of celebrating 20 years of dedicated as a testament to the stands also but Times, Indian the for ent achievem t significan a marks only and connected. organisations strong commitment to keeping the community well-informed serving as a reliable Over the past two decades, BIT has been a pillar of the Brisbane community, a crucial role in played has dences correspon g facilitatin to ent commitm The source of press services. is essential for any sources news reliable of ty fostering a sense of unity within the community. The availabili e. excellenc with need this met tly community, and BIT has consisten consistent and upThe publication of monthly newspapers by BIT has been instrumental in providing The press’s dedication to ity. commun Brisbane the to events current on on informati of source to-date s and understanding of delivering timely news has undoubtedly contributed to the community's awarenes them. around the world g the growth of the Furthermore, I would like to acknowledge Brisbane Indian Time’s role in supportin e to the public, accessibl easily ons organisati key Brisbane Indian community. Your publications have made lity has accessibi This ent. engagem and on participati their for essential is that on offering valuable informati on. informati vital of need in those to not only empowered individuals but has also provided assistance our congratulations and As the Brisbane Indian Times celebrates this significant milestone, we express Indian community.

Brisbane the to resource essential an support for your continuous efforts in providing presentation has made a on informati and service, ity commun integrity, c journalisti to ent Your commitm of excellence for many years to lasting impact, and the Brisbane Indian Times will continue to be a beacon come.

Sincerely, Siva Sri Srigangathara Kurrukal Founder and Chief Priest

10 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023

publication; he pointed out that the publication had maintained its relevance and was well regarded by government and organisations.

Following Lord Mayor's Speech, the second dance item by “Let Bollywood group” occurred. Dinner was then served; Stamford Plaza had a lovely spread of Indian dishes that everyone enjoyed and appreciated.

Following dinner was the floor reflections segment, the first speaker being Hajji Sultan Deen; he spoke from his heart and recollected his meeting with Umesh Chandra in a park before the paper's launch. He was present at the launch and has supported the paper ever since.

Sarat Maharaj was the next speaker.

He, too, spoke highly of the publication; he had attended the official launch as the president of FICQ. Following Sarat Maharaj, Manju Jehu said. Other speakers included Katriona Scshuller, the first manager of Brisbane Indian Times., Rekha Hakim, the first marketing manager of Brisbane Indian Times, recalled that even after pursuing

After the dance, the official party and team members cut a special twentiethanniversary cake. The right hon Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner spoke next; he emphasised that Brisbane Indian Times, as a small business, had done well to survive the twenty years of publication; he pointed out that the publication had maintained its relevance and was well regarded by government and organisations. her nursing career, she woke at night thinking she had missed the press deadline.

Zach Davis Hancock recalled the official launch, as he was with Mayor Alan Bouton in those days. Jaffar Khan of Cocoon Homes, Yousuf Alikhan, Saswati Basu Chatterjee and others spoke highly of the publication and congratulated Umesh and Usha Chandra on the milestone celebration.

Usha Chandra moved the vote of thanks and noted the contributions of the Inhouse team, especially that of Dilraj Kaur Dhillon, Stamford Plaza staff and event coordinator Emma Yang, Mayuresh Lande for AV presentations, Dhimendra Singh (Deepak) for the sound system, Preethi Suraj for efficient Floor management and Zain Chams for being the excellent MC and Sam and Shabnam of dream style decorators for the decorations and theming.

She also thanked all the speakers and acknowledged everyone for their esteemed presence.

Grand Navratri Program

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Sunday 22 October 2023 4pm Garba 6pm Devi program including kanya puja, bhajan & aarti

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023 — 11

Vacancy rates reach new record lows despite rental growth easing • CoreLogic’s Rent Value Index rose 1.6% in the September quarter, down from 2.2% over Q2 • National rents are 30.4% higher since July 2020, adding the equivalent of $137 to the median weekly rent • The national vacancy rate fell to a new record low of 1.1% in September • Adelaide lost its position of lowest median rent value to Hobart Despite worsening affordability easing the pace of rental growth in Australia, rental availability tightened in September, with vacancy rates falling to new record lows across the country.

CoreLogic’s Quarterly Rental Review for Q3 2023 shows rental values rose 1.6% over the quarter, down from the 2.2% rise seen in the June quarter and a full percentage point below the recent peak rate recorded over the three months to April (2.6%). This took the annual pace of growth down from a revised peak of 9.6% in the previous 12 months to 8.4% in the year to September.

However, a continued shortfall in rental listings saw the national vacancy rate reduce to a new record low of 1.1% in September as the total count of national rental listings fell to its lowest level since early November 2012.

However, a continued shortfall in rental listings saw the national vacancy rate reduce to a new record low of 1.1% in September as the total count of national rental listings fell to its lowest level since early November 2012.

“Worsening affordability continues to be a significant factor placing downward pressure on the pace of rental growth in recent months,” Ms Ezzy said.

“After recording a small

dip over the first few months of COVID, national rents have risen for 38 consecutive months, taking rental values 30.4% higher since July 2020 and adding the equivalent of $137 to the median weekly rent.

With the rising cost of living adding additional pressure on renter's balance sheets, it is likely tenants have hit an affordability ceiling, seeking to grow their households to share the growing rental burden.

“The situation of low rental vacancy rates and insufficient housing supply is broad issue impacting regions around the country to different extents. Record high net overseas migration, fuelled by a combination of an increased flow of new arrivals and weaker departure numbers, coupled with a continued shortfall in rental listings, saw the vacancy rates falling to new record lows across both the combined capitals (1.0%) and combined regional markets (1.2%),” she said.

Over the four weeks to October 1st, the total count of national rental listings fell to its lowest level since early November 2012, with just 90,153 properties listed to rent. This equates to a rental shortfall of approximately 47,500, with total listings -15.1% below the levels seen this time last year and -34.5% below the previous five-year average.

Rental growth across

the capital cities continues to outpace the combined regionals, with rents up 1.9% and 0.7% respectively over Q3. Both markets saw the pace of rental appreciation ease over the quarter, falling -80 basis points across the capitals and -10 basis points across the regions.

Gap between house and unit rents expands to $36/ week as house rents pick up pace Rental growth for houses is now rising faster than unit rents, up 1.7% and 1.3% respectiely over Q3.

“Since peaking at 4.3% over the three months to April, the pace of quarterly rental growth across Australia's unit sector has plummeted by more than two-thirds taking the gap between the median house and median unit rents from $33 in May to $36 in September,” Ms Ezzy said.

“Worsening affordability in the unit sector, coupled with a potential shift towards larger rental households, has likely helped rebalance demand between the two property types. Much of the unit sector's relative affordability has been eroded through the recent rental surge, with unit rents rising 11.7% over the past 12 months compared to the 7.1% rise in house rents.”

Diversity in rental conditions across the capitals While headline figures

showed a general easing in rental appreciation, across the individual capitals, growth conditions were more diverse.

Darwin recorded the strongest quarterly rise in dwelling rents (3.3%), followed

by Brisbane (2.5%), with both markets recording an increase in the pace of growth over the quarter.

In contrast, Perth (2.5%), Melbourne (2.3%), Sydney (1.7%), and Adelaide (1.7%) all saw the pace of rental growth ease, while rents across Hobart (-2.7%) and Canberra (-0.9%) declined.

Sydney maintained its position as the most expensive capital city rental market, with median dwelling rent at $726 per week, followed by Canberra ($649p/w) and Darwin ($615p/w). Adelaide

($548p/w) lost the most affordable rental capital title to Hobart ($529 p/w), with Adelaide recording a quarterly rental rise equivalent to $9 p/w while Hobart rents fell -$15 p/w.

Yields contract as growth in values outpaces rents With the quarterly trend in national values (2.2%) once again outpacing quarterly growth in national rents (1.6%), national gross rental yields recorded a mild decline over the quarter, falling three basis points to 3.69% in August before rising two basis point to 3.71% in September.

While down two basis points from the recent peak recorded in April (3.73%), national gross yields remain 20 basis points above those

recorded this time last year (3.51%) and 55 basis points above the recent low record in January 2022 (3.16%).

CoreLogic’s Quarterly Rental Review for Q3 2023 includes a comprehensive analysis of Australia’s rental market including data on: • Gross yields • Houses vs Units • City vs Regional • Most affordable/ expensive median rent house suburbs • Most affordable/ expensive median rent unit suburbs • Australia’s top 30 most affordable/expensive rental suburbs To download a full copy of the report, visit www.corelogic.com.au/ news-research/reports/ quarterlyrental-review.

RBA holds cash rate steady but warns on inflation Commentary by CoreLogic Research Director, Tim Lawless The RBA kept the cash rate on hold at 4.1% for the fourth successive month in October, citing ‘a more sustainable balance between supply and demand in the economy’, but also ongoing concerns about inflationary pressures and a heightened level of uncertainty surrounding the economic outlook.

The recent uptick

in inflation, from 4.9% annually in July to 5.5% in August, wasn’t enough to prompt a further rate hike this month. With volatile measures stripped out, annual growth in the monthly CPI did continue to ease to 5.3% (down from 5.6%).

However, clearly inflation remains high on the RBA’s risk radar. Higher fuel and energy prices, alongside persistently high services and rental inflation have the potential to trigger another

12 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023

rate hike later this year.

Logically, the RBA will be waiting to see September quarter inflation data, released the week ahead of the RBA’s November meeting.

With this in mind, the November meeting will be closely watched.

The RBA is also likely to be keeping a close eye on the housing sector. Rental pressures are front and centre in the inflation numbers, however the annual change in CoreLogic’s measure of market rents

has been slowing since October last year. CPI rents tend to lag market rents, implying CPI rental growth could be close to peaking.

Importantly, the upswing in Australian housing values has lost some steam over the past quarter, with a 2.2% rise in CoreLogic’s national Home Value Index compared with a 3% rise through the June quarter.

Although the RBA doesn’t directly target asset prices in their decisions, the ongoing rise in

housing values across most regions of Australia could be a concern for the RBA. Higher housing values have the potential to keep inflation higher for longer due to the flow on from the wealth effect; if home owners feel wealthier they may be inclined to spend more.

Although we have seen the cash rate holding firm for four months now, there is little sign of a lift in consumer spirits. Both the weekly and monthly measures of consumer sentiment are holding

deeply in pessimistic territory.

With households continuing to face cost of living pressures, alongside the spectre of another rate hike, it’s unlikely consumer attitudes will show a material lift any time soon.

With housing market activity and sentiment highly correlated, it’s unlikely residential purchasing activity will show a material rise until some certainty returns to the economy.

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Brookwater’s current land release, The Dress Circle, is situated around the first nine holes of the championship golf course designed by Greg Norman. It is the only integrated golf community near Brisbane. “Discerning buyers are recognising that Brookwater is a premium lifestyle destination,’’Mr Sinnathamby said.

“The Dress Circle, Brookwater is situated within Springfield City, one of Australia’s fastestgrowing regions. Springfield City sets the standard for world-class master-planned urban environments in the 21st century and has become a blueprint for nation-building,” he added.

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

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

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023 — 13

14 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023 — 15

16 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023 — 17

Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland उत्तम कार्यों को करते हुए जीवन सख ु ी

किसी अच्छे कार्य को आरम्भ करना और उसको जीवन में लगातार बनाए रखना, दोनों कठिन कार्य हैं, परं तु असम्भव नहीं। विद्वानों ने कहा है , कि "जो व्यक्ति किसी शभ ु कार्य को आरं भ करते हैं, और उसको लगातार अपने जीवन में करते रहते हैं। कितनी ही बाधाएं आवें , फिर भी वे उस काम को बीच में छोड़ते नहीं। सब कष्टों को सहते हुए संघर्ष करते हुए भी, वे उस उत्तम कार्य को जीवन में जारी रखते हैं, ऐसे लोग उत्तम स्तर के होते हैं। कुछ लोग अच्छे कार्य को आरं भ तो कर दे ते हैं। परं तु कुछ समय तक करने के बाद जब बाधाएं आती हैं, कष्ट आते हैं, तो वे उनसे घबराकर उन कार्यों को बीच में ही अधरू ा छोड़ दे ते हैं, परू ा नहीं कर पाते। ऐसे लोग मध्यम स्तर के व्यक्ति कहलाते हैं। परं तु जो लोग बाधाओं के आने के भय से किसी अच्छे कार्य को आरं भ ही नहीं करते। उन्हें हर काम बड़ा कठिन लगता है । क्या होगा, कैसे होगा, कैसे करें गे, यदि यह बाधा आ गई तो क्या होगा, वह बाधा आ गई तो उसे कैसे दरू करें गे, इत्यादि प्रश्नों में ही घिरे रहते हैं, और वे उत्तम कार्यों को आरं भ ही नहीं कर पाते, वे निम्न स्तर के लोग कहलाते हैं। अधिकतर लोग इसी तीसरे स्तर वाले होते हैं। इसलिए यह कहावत बन गई, कि अच्छे कार्यों को करना कठिन होता है । परं तु किसी भी अच्छे कार्य को आरं भ करने के लिए यदि कोई प्रेरक व्यक्ति मिल जाए, जो थोड़ा उत्साह बढ़ा दे , तो थोड़ा भी हिम्मत वाला सामान्य मनषु ्य भी उस कार्य को आरं भ कर सकता है । यदि वह अपना उत्साह बनाए रखे, और लगातार पुरुषार्थ करता रहे , तो वह कार्य उसके अभ्यास में आ जाता है अर्थात उसे उस काम को करने की आदत हो जाती है । जब किसी काम को करने की आदत हो जाती है , फिर वह दृढ़ता से जीवन में चलता रहता है , फिर

Samaj Havan Yajna Satsang at Queensland Vedic Cultural Centre

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

वह नहीं छूटता। इसलिए सभी लोगों को यह सोचना चाहिए, कि जैसे दस ू रे लोग महापरु ु ष आदि, उत्तम कार्यों को करते हैं, वैसे ही हम भी करें गे। महापरु ु षों के जीवन से प्रेरणा लेकर हम भी उत्तम कार्यों का आचरण करें गे। और यदि अपने आसपास कोई ऐसा जीवित व्यक्ति मिल जाए, जो उत्तम कार्यों का आचरण स्वयं करता हो, तो उसके जीवन में उन उत्तम कार्यों को प्रत्यक्ष दे खने पर, और अधिक प्रेरणा मिलेगी। उस प्रेरणा से आप भी उत्तम कार्यों का प्रारं भ कर सकते हैं। जैसे यज्ञ करना, ईश्वर की भक्ति उपासना करना, व्यायाम करना, स्वाध्याय करना, दस ू रों की सहायता करना, रोगी विकलांग अनाथ मनषु ्यों को सहयोग दे ना इत्यादि; इन सब उत्तम कार्यों को आप भी आरं भ कर सकते हैं। और यदि आप हिम्मत बनाए रखेंगे, तो धीरे -धीरे आप उसे अपनी आदत में भी ला सकते हैं। एक बार इन अच्छे कार्यों की आदत पड़ गई, तो फिर कोई चिंता नहीं रहे गी। आप परू ा जीवन इन उत्तम कार्यों को करते हुए वर्तमान जीवन में भी सख ु ी रहें गे, और आपका भविष्य अर्थात अगला जन्म भी बहुत उत्तम अर्थात सुखदायक होगा। स्वामी विवेकानंद परिव्राजक

18 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023

Aryasamaj and Social awakening

by Dr. Vivek Arya Swami Dayanand Saraswati the founder of Aryasamaj clearly stated in the ten principles of Aryasamaj that the prime object of the Aryasamaj is to do good to the world, that is, to promote physical, spiritual and social good of everyone. This message was widely accepted by the followers of Aryasamaj.

Aryasamaj indeed became the most active religious and social organization of 19th century which dedicated its heart and soul in the service of deprived sections of the society particularly the women as well as dalits.

Taking cue from the life and teachings of Swami Dayanand many reforms of women empowerment and social justice were initiated. In this regard, the prominent stalwarts of Arya

Samaj who came forward can be named as Swami Shraddhanand, Lala Lajpat Rai, Bhai Parmanand, Sant Ram, Ram Chand Mahajan, Master Atmaram Amritsari, Mahatma Hansraj, Lala Ruliya Ram, Lala Ganga Ram, etc.

Swami Shraddhanand pointed out that fundamental reasons for the poor plight of women and dalits were lack of education, early marriage leading to girls becoming widow while in their childhood, obnoxious practice of untouchability as well as poverty. In his work, 'Satyarth Prakash' Swami Dayanand has advocated compulsory education for all irrespective of caste, creed and religion. Based on a Shloka of Manusmriti, Swami Dayanand also emphasized that the state

must punish those parents who do not send their children to educational institutions for learning.

Swami Ji opined that in the school-gurukul, all the students were to be given equal facilities whether they are children of a king or that of a poor man. This secular idea of education was adopted by Swami Shraddhanand and given a practical shape even before starting of his political carrier. He was instrumental in starting Gurukul Kangri, Haridwar for Boys and Kanya Vidyalaya Jalandhar for Girls respectively. These models of education are live examples of social awakening.

Soon, the awareness about education gained momentum throughout the country.

Educating girls was

considered a taboo in those days. However, with the pioneering efforts of Aryasamaj thousands of schools, colleges and Gurukuls for both boys and girls were opened especially in Northern India.

Undoubtedly, the credit for pioneering the idea of educational movement goes to Maharishi Dayananda and followers of Aryasamaj.

Facing all odds, Aryasamaj got success in its mission and gained public sympathy. The mind sets of masses started changing gradually. The lives of widows changed from hell to heaven.

They womenfolk should particularly be indebted to Swami Dayanand and his Arya Samaj movement for bringing complete transformation in their lifeto be continued.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023 — 19

DAV REUNION 2023 IN BRISBANE WAS A MEMORABLE EXEMPLARY GATHERING OF OLD SCHOOL MATES FROM BA, FIJI

Thakur Ranjit Singh, FIJI PUNDIT

The Chinese Community Hall, Runcorn, Brisbane, Australia became a hive of activity on the evening of Saturday 9 September, 2023 where former DAV students from Canada, USA, New Zealand, Fiji and from regional Australia descended for a KrishnSudama type Milan, meeting, reunion of old school and classmates from DAV College in Ba, Fiji.

This Brisbane event was the Fourth International DAV Reunion, with Vancouver in 2015, Auckland in 2017, Fiji in 2019 and this fourth one in Brisbane in September, 2023.

For a low decile (poorer cane-farmer children) school based in rural Fiji, this is a big feat and speaks volumes for the calibre of the school which has produced such students, supported by their teachers, and their ability to keep in touch even after half a century, and have capability of organising such continuous international events.

I wish to repeat what I have said about my former school before.

Schools like D.A.V and other similar ones from vision of Girmitiyas were there to provide services to mostly children of poorer cane-farmer parents, and yours truly, Thakur was also one of them. And most of them had lower marks, rejected by schools like Xavier College.

Anybody can take creamy milk and make butter out of it. But it takes big courage to take butter-milk (maatha) and re-make it into butter.

Schools like DAV have been doing just that for over half-a century. And

this is an opportunity to pay back that gratitude by remembering those fond days.

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

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

It is especially for this reason I salute our Girmitiyas, and their vision, and Arya Samaj for providing this school which moulded us into better citizens. And those better citizens have been celebrating the school relationships - the trend of Krishn-Sudama type school reunion in our scriptures.

The night began with guests arriving at the Chinese Community Hall from 5 pm for an early start.

The first thing that stuck the guests was the welcome by the elegantly dressed Brisbane team, with beautiful uniform, reflecting the night’s theme - ISLAND. This indeed was a new trend started by Brisbane, where all were presented islandstyle salusalu, garlands, thanks and a salute to the leadership in Brisbane.

Another first was the hot snacks, savouries and finger foods cooked at the premises. Beautifully laid out, and very tasty. Thanks.

The MC for the evening was the Secretary of the Brisbane Committee, a dashing and elegantly uniformed Arunesh Aron Kumar and he did a fantastic job.

The night began with

lighting of candles, and Sharadhanjali ke doh phool, a tribute video produced in 2017 by Thakur Ranjit Singh and his son Ron Singh (of Melbourne) to remember departed schoolmates and teachers.

This was followed by a poetry and song by DAV music Maestro Indar Kumar Nair of Sydney, followed by welcome speech by Former Teacher and President of Brisbane Committee, Pundit Sanat Pandey. This was followed by cultural items by Bhavna Kaushal and later a tribute to Arya Samaj

by Surya, and Sadasivan Naicker gave a running commentary on history of DAV in his inspirational address.

Then the lighter side of things began with students recounting their experience, getting photographed with longlost mates. And the muchanticipated event did not disappoint us. And there was music, free drinks, of course no Fiji event is complete without the brown label - Fiji kava.

Some of the highlights were cutting of the cake that was done by Committee members and veterans behind the reunion.

Sant Lal Sharma from Vancouver had brought special medals, and watches as special prizes and awards.

This was sponsored by his accounting firm in Vancouver, Sam’s Accounting and Associates.

Former Minister in Chaudhry Government, Pratap Chand graced the event and was the oldest student who attended DAV in 1959. Other awards were given, the best dressed and four former students who had attended all the four Reunions, and they are Mahendra Singh, Sant Sharma, Thakur Ranjit Singh and Shashi Shankar Singh.

The night ended with dancing enjoyed by all, drinking till late and subtle jokes with double meaning, enjoyed by all-and perhaps upsetting some who could not understand the jokes

FOUR CLASSMATES OF DAV FROM CLASS OF 1973- L-R SANT SHARMA-THAKUR RANJIT SINGHNAGENDRA PRASAD AND SADASIVAN NAICKER 20 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023

Part of the Class of half a century ago at DAV College, Ba Fiji -CLASS OF 1973: L-R : Sarita Naicker, Shakuntala Devi Mohan, Shashi Shankar Singh, Sadasivan Naicker, Nagendra Prasad, Sant Sharma and Topi Wala Thakur Ranjit Singh

L - R: President of Brisbane DAV Reunion Committee, Punditji Sanat Pandey, Former Minister in Chaudhry Government and oldest student of DAV Present (1959), Pratap Chand and Mahendra Singh, a veteran of DAV Reunion, having attended all four reunions in Canada, NZ, Fiji and Australia.

PART OF THE ELEGANTLY UNIFORMED EXECUTIVES OF BRISBANE DAV REUNION 2023 until the next morning.

Overall, we had good fun, good company and a good memorable walk down the memory lane.

Many had met after some half-a decade-50 years, and that is a long time.

Those present had good fun. Those who cared, they came and together from near and afar, we had fun, and built memorable memories.

For those in Brisbane and Australia who missed it, kick yourself for missing an evening full of fun with former DAV students.

You still have a chance to redeem your oversight, as we have passed the baton

to Indar Kumar Nair and his team in Sydney for the next biennial DAV Reunion, held every two years. So, it is Sydney in 2025.

So long till we meet again in Sydney in 2025, with DAV Team Sydney, under the leadership of Nair has already begun planning for yet another memorable event in Australia in two years’ time.

Until then, Goodbye, till we meet again for a DAV ball in Sydney in 2025.

[About the Author: Thakur Ranjit Singh is a founding executive of DAV Reunion from

INDAR K. NAIR -THE MUSIC MAESTRO-ENTERTAING THE AUDIENCE WITH HIS SELF-COMPOSED SONG AND MUSIC

SADASIVAN NAICKER-A FOUNDING VETERAN OF DAV REUNION-ADDRESSING THE AUDIENCE 2015, and has attended all International DAV Reunions. He is a journalist, a media commentator and blogger at FIJI PUNDIT. He is a regular contributor from Auckland for this publication.

E-mail: thakurjifj@gmail.com]

PART OF THE CLASS OF HALF A CENTURY AGO AT DAV COLLEGE BA, FIJI-CLASS OF 1973

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023 — 21

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sardar Vallabhbhai Jhaberbhai Patel, also known as the ‘Iron Man of India’, was an Indian independence leader. He saved India from machination of the ruling British who intended to give large Hindu majority areas of Bengal, Punjab and Assam to Pakistan. He was a unifier and the principal architect of India.

He became the Deputy Prime Minister after India attained its independence. He non-violently demolished the princely order in the country and created one India by uniting princely states through persuasion, negotiation and the political act of accession.

Early life - Vallabhbhai Patel was born on 31 October 1875 at Nadiad in the Kheda district of Gujarat. He was one of the six children and the fourth son of parents Jhaberbhai and Ladbai Patel. The family belonged to a farming community and owned farmland in the village Karamsad, about eight kilometres from the district town Anand.

Vallabhbhai’s father Jhaberbhai was himself a rebel. During the first war of independence in 1857, he travelled from Gujarat to Jhansi and fought for Rani Lakshmibai against the British. After the war, he was taken prisoner by the ruler of a princely state and was later released following recognition of his good behaviour. Jhaberbhai was deeply religious and followed the Swaminarayan Sampraday.

Ladbai was a gentle human and an expert housekeeper. She often narrated stories from the Ramayan and Mahabharat to her children. These stories instilled in Vallabhbhai’s mind an irresistible desire to fight injustice.

Vallabhbhai Patel started his education in Karamsad and then he moved to a school in Petlad.

After two years at Petlad, he joined a high school in Nadiad.

He passed his matriculation at the age of twenty-two. Then he completed the district pleader’s course, which enabled him to practice law. In 1900, he set up his office of district pleader in Godhra and then he moved to Borsad.

As a lawyer, he successfully challenged police witnesses and British judges in difficult cases, and often achieved success for his clients.

He became quite popular as a defence lawyer and wanted to go to England to qualify as a barrister. From his practice, he had earned enough money for his projected expenses there. Around this time, his elder brother Vithalbhai Patel expressed desire to complete his education in England. Vallabhbhai readily conceded to his wish and paid for his brother’s study overseas.

Vithalbhai later became a national leader and a legislator in the colonial legislative assembly.

Vallabhbhai Patel was married to Zaverbai in 1893. The couple had a daughter named Maniben and a son Dahyabhai Patel. In 1909, Zaverbai suffered from a debilitating disease. She was admitted to a Mumbai hospital to undergo surgery. Her health suddenly worsened and despite successful surgery, she passed away. Patel was given a note informing him of his wife's death, while he was cross-examining a witness in court. He continued his work in the court as usual and disclosed the tragedy later. Patel did not marry again. He raised his children with the help of his extended family.

He was determined to enhance his career in the legal profession.

He travelled to London in 1910 to study law at the Middle Temple.

There he studied diligently and passed the final examinations with high honours. He was called to the Bar in 1913 and soon afterwards, he returned to India. He set up his practice in Ahmedabad.

He rose rapidly to become the leading barrister in criminal law at the Ahmedabad bar. His fearlessness, clear thinking and ability to quickly judge people served him well. He became a renowned barrister in Ahmedabad.

Satyagrah - He joined the Gujarat Club, a high-class social group. At the Gujarat Club, Patel attended a lecture by Mahatma Gandhi. He was deeply influenced

by Gandhi and became a staunch follower. He changed his western coat-pants garments to Indian attire. He actively supported the non-cooperation movement launched by Gandhi.

From 1917 to 1924, Patel served as the first Indian municipal commissioner of Ahmedabad and was its elected chairman from 1924 to 1928.

Prior to him, a government appointed British municipal commissioner was mismanaging the municipality. Patel managed to curb the corrupt conducts and practices in the municipality and introduced significant reforms.

Severe calamities like a plague in 1917 and famine in 1918 had afflicted the region. On both occasions, Patel organised works to relieve distress of the common people.

In 1917, Patel was elected as the secretary of the Gujarat Sabha, the Gujarat wing of the Indian National Congress. In 1918, Gandhi started the Kheda Satyagrah that demanded deferment of tax collection from farmers. Their summer crops were lost in flood; winter crops were damaged in an epidemic of rats and other pests. According to the revenue rules, tax payments were not to be enforced in the affected areas. The authorities were unwilling to follow rules.

22 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023

Farmers were helpless. On the farmers’ request, Gandhi started Satyagrah and asked them to decline paying tax. Patel became Gandhi’s deputy commander for this movement.

In Gandhi’s absence, Patel led the Satyagrah. Eventually, the government accepted the demands of farmers and the Satyagrah succeeded in achieving its goal. Patel’s efforts to bring together the farmers of his area bought him the title of ‘Sardar’ or leader.

Even as a young boy, Vallabhbhai displayed qualities of organization and leadership that marked him out for his future role. Once as a sixth-class student he had organized a successful strike of his classmates that lasted for three days, in retaliation to a teacher’s misbehaviour against students.

Following the introduction of the Rowlatt Act, Gandhi started the non-cooperation movement.

Patel left his practice for good and dedicated himself wholly to political and constructive works.

He toured villages, addressed meetings, and organised picketing of foreign cloth shops and liquor shops.

In 1923, the Nagpur Satyagrah was fought to uphold the honour of the Indian national flag.

The municipality had passed a resolution to fly the Indian flag over the Town Hall along with the Union Jack. The British authorities did not allow the Indian flag to be flown. Patel took over the command of the Satyagrah and ensured a steady flow of Satyagrahis from different parts of India. Finally, he emerged victorious.

Patel led the Borsad Satyagrah, which was held to protest against the corruptly imposed additional taxes on the residents of the region. The Satyagrah was successful in abolition of the additional taxes.

In 1928 Patel successfully led the Bardoli Satyagrah against large increase in taxes on land.

When the farmers refused to pay the extra charges, the government seized their lands and properties in retaliation. He efficiently

organised various sections of the society and achieved an acceptable settlement with the government.

Recognising his achievements, Gandhi paid tribute to Patel’s organising and administrative abilities in his speeches and publications.

Patel became acknowledged as a nationalist leader throughout India. He was considered practical, decisive, and even ruthless in executing his programs.

Freedom fighter - By 1929, the political situation in the country had become critical. The Congress had declared its goal of Purna Swaraj for the country.

Following the events resulting from the Boycott of the Simon commission, martyrdoms of revolutionaries and suppression of national yearning for freedom, Gandhi launched the Dandi Salt March.

Patel went ahead on the route of the Gandhi’s Salt March in 1930. His earlier departure was to prepare the villagers of the coming ordeal. On the way, he was arrested at Ras and sentenced to three month’s imprisonment. He was lodged in Sabarmati jail at Ahmedabad. His inspirational speeches delivered prior to the arrest, helped transform the outlooks of a number of people, who later played a major role in making the movement successful.

Patel was freed following the agreement signed between Gandhi and the Viceroy, known as Gandhi–Irwin Pact.

In 1931, Patel was elected President of Congress and presided its session in Karachi.

After the failure of the Second Round Table Conference, the top Congress leaders were arrested.

Patel was imprisoned in January 1932 and released in July 1934.

Following the enactment of the Act of India 1935, the Indian National Congress established a Congress Parliamentary Board with Patel as its chairman.

Subsequently, elections were held for legislative assemblies.

In seven of the eleven provinces, Congress Ministries were formed.

Patel, in his role as Chairman of the Congress Parliamentary Board, guided and controlled the activities of these Ministries.

Britain committed India to the Second World War without consulting Indian leaders.

Congress did not accept this position and Congress ministries resigned. Gandhi launched the Individual civil disobedience movement opposing Indian participation in the war. Patel was arrested on November 17, 1940. He was released on August 20, 1941 on grounds of his deteriorating health.

On 8 August 1942, the All India Congress Committee passed the ‘Quit India’ resolution. Patel along with the other members of the Working Committee was arrested on August 9, 1942. He was detained in the Ahmadnagar Fort and remained in jail for about three years. After the end of the Second World War, he was freed.

It became clear that Britain could not hold India under its control.

The British rulers began devising pathways to transfer power to Indians.

In 1946, a new president of the Congress was to be elected. The majority of delegates supported Patel for the position. Gandhi’s preference was for the younger leader, Jawaharlal Nehru. Patel honoured Gandhi’s wish and

withdrew his candidature in support of Nehru. Subsequently, Nehru was invited to form the government and became the Prime Minister.

The British policy statement on India devised to fragment the nation into India, Pakistan and Princestan by transferring power to princely states simultaneously with India and Pakistan. In addition, whole of Punjab, Bengal and Assam were to become a part of Pakistan. Patel did not allow this to happen. At his initiative, Congress demanded for a division of Punjab and Bengal between predominantly Muslim regions separated from the rest. Assam was to remain in India. Princely states were to accede to either India or Pakistan.

Post Independence - Patel was a leading member of the Constituent Assembly of India and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was appointed chairman of the Drafting Committee on his recommendation. After India achieved its Independence, Patel became the Deputy Prime Minister. He was responsible for the Home, States and the Information and Broadcasting portfolios. He took a personal interest in initiating a restoration endeavor of the Somnath Temple.

Patel played a crucial role in integrating around 565 princely states into Independent India.

Most of the princely states signed the act of accession to India through persuasions and negotiations. States like Travancore, Bhopal, Junagadh and Hyderabad needed additional convincing before joining the union. He accomplished this task with ruthless efficiency of a great administrator. The integration of the princely states is labelled as Patel’s crowning achievement.

Nehru had taken responsibility of Kashmir’s accession and hence Patel did not interfere in it.

Patel sorted out the problems of partition, restored law and order and dealt with the rehabilitation of thousands of refugees with great courage and foresight.

He reorganised police and civil services, which had become depleted with the departure of the British. He formed a new Indian Administrative Service, to provide a stable national administrative base to India’s new democracy.

Patel often faced a number of confrontations with other important leaders of the congress.

He voiced his annoyance at Jawaharlal Nehru when he adopted the policy of socialism. He was also opposed to Subhash Chandra Bose and considered him to be keen on more power within the party.

Politically, his views on national issues were more aligned with that of Rajendra Prasad and Chaktravarti Rajagopalachari.

Patel’s health started declining in 1950. On 2nd November, he became bed-ridden. He died on 15 December 1950, because of a heart attack.

He was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour. His birthday, 31 October, is celebrated as the National Unity Day. Patel's family home in Karamsad is now preserved in his memory. A one hundred eighty-two metres tall Statue of Unity is dedicated to Patel. This is the world’s tallest statue and is located near Kevadia in the state of Gujarat, India.

—Awadhesh Sharma www.hinduguru.com.au

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023 — 23

The yogic techniques & the auspicious science of mantras to remove, stress, anxiety, mind-wandering, destroying all sins and attaining bliss. Part -1

The content of this article is taken from the satsang (spiritual discourse) of H.H. Sant Shri Asharamji Bapu. Swami Vivekananda addressed the Parliament of the World’s Religions in Chicago in September 1893.

A hundred years after him, Pujya Bapuji addressed the same Parliament in September 1993 and the whole parliament reverberated with the chanting of Hari Om. Both of these world-renowned spiritual leaders addressed the audience for a much longer period than the given time and the audience were absorbed in listening to them.

To save the youth who are being ruined due to the lustful festivals like valentine’s day, in 2007 Pujya Bapu ji-initiated celebrations of Matri-Pitri Pujan Diwas (Parents’ worship day) on 14th February. Pujya Bapu ji felt that, due to the blind imitation of Western culture there has been a steep rise in the incidences of alcoholism, suicide, and other immoral activities, especially among the youth during the last week of December. To rescue the youth from this debauchery and denigration, Pujya Bapu ji came up with the idea of worshipping a sacred Tulsi plant (holy basil). So, with a view to awaken the cultural pride of India and to save the countrymen from mental slavery, in 2014, he initiated celebration of Tulsi pujan on 25th December. Pujya Bapu ji has always emphasized the necessity to follow rich Indian culture and always said that it is only the Indian culture and Sanatana dharma which can give the world true happiness & peace.

Dear readers, as we know that yogic techniques are practiced as a spiritual practice in Hinduism. Yoga is a systematic discipline which includes a technique for the mastery of the rendering mind and body in a healthy state. In this article Pujya Bapuji talks about yogic techniques and mantras to remove, stress, anxiety, mind-wandering, destroying all sins and attaining bliss.

In this article, we will go through different techniques in this article.

Pranayama for Vishranti Yoga Sadhana Benefits: It’s practice has a greater influence at the physical, mental and

intellectual levels. This is the sadhana of Vishranti Yoga.

Relaxation of the mind gives rise to mental power and bids adieu to disease & sorrow.

Procedure: Inhale deeply and retain the breath inside for 60 to 75 seconds while performing Trihandha [all the three bandhas, viz. moola bandha (root-lock), uddiyana bandha (navel-lock) and jalandhara bandha (chinlock) performed together]; then exhale slowly. While inhaling, imagine: I am breathing in concentration, happiness, and divine peace'; and whilst exhaling, imagine that restlessness, egotism and negative thoughts are thrown away.' Perform 5 rounds of such Pranayamas.

Pranayama to ward off uneasiness, stress and unrest.

Benefits: It eliminates anxiety & stress and wards off' unrest and uneasiness of mind.

Procedure: Inhale deeply through both the nostrils, repeat mentally: ‘Aum Shanti'; and blowing the air from mouth, imagine: ‘My anxiety, foolishness and uneasiness are thrown out.'

Repeat this 5-7 times.

Pranayama to awaken the Divine Element On the topic - ‘Awakening of Divine Element’, Pujya Bapuji says “Desire is a sign of a demonic nature, bestial element.

‘Divine Element’ implies Sattva Guna. A great devotee Dhruva, by awakening the Divine Element, could have Darshan (i.e. divine vision) of God. Samartha Ramdasji, on awakening the same, he was able to have a direct vision of Hanumanji; while Paramahansa Yogananda, on awakening it, attained will power. The more we develop the Divine Element, the easier everything becomes for us. Daily observance of 10 rounds of Mala (a rosary with usually 108 beads, used to count off repetitions of Guru Mantra) that I impart during Mantra initiation, is meant to elevate you from the bestial element. One, who practices Pranayamas etc. after being initiated into a mantra will transcend bestial nature more firmly and thoroughly.

One must perform at least 5-7 Pranayamas every day.

Tribandha Pranayarna will help develop the Divine Element. This practice is quite simple. Keep looking

24 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023

with fixed gaze at the image of God or Guru. Then on closing your eyes, you will see the same image in the Ajna chakra (eyebrow center).

Keep chanting Aum... Aum... Aum... in whispering tone with lip movements which cannot be heard by anyone and in case your mind wanders; perform prolonged chants of A…..U… ..M, A…..U…..M” Practical methods for progress in Sudhana Some practices for progress in Sadhana, as mentioned in Pujya Bapuji's discourses arc as follows: Practice to reduce mindwandering instantly.

Benefits: This method opens the door to Sushumna Nadi (i.e. prana is directed to the central energy channel) and thus one attains bliss in no time. The fickle mind keeps wandering as long as it doesn't get inner joy. This practice, when performed with hands in Jnana Mudra, and ‘Omkar’ chant, will rapidly reduce wandering of the mind.

“Can the mind be at rest without experiencing the joy inherent in one’s own Self?"

(Sant Tulsidasji) Procedure: In the ambrosial period of Brahmamuhurta (period of two hours and fifteen minutes preceding sunrise), after saucha (internal and external purity) and snana (bathing) in the morning, spread a woolen asana (a woolen mat to sit for spiritual practice). Sit on it in either Padmasana (lotus posture), Siddhasana, Svastikasana or Sukhasana. Perform 10-15 Pranayamas - even better if Antarkumbhaka (internal breath retention) and Bahya Kumbhaka Pranayamas (external breath retention) are performed along with

Tribandha.

After that, touching the tips of (your) index lingers with the tips of respective thumbs, and keeping the remaining three fingers (of both hands) straightened, place both the hands on your knees. Make sure to keep your neck and spine erect, eyes partially open and body steady. Now take a deep breath in and perform prolonged chant of ‘Omkar. Initially do the Japa (of AUM) in the throat; after that, go little deeper and do japa of ‘Omkar’ in the heart.

Later, go further deeper and do japa of the same (‘Omkar’) in the navel or Muladhara Chakra (the lowermost spiritual center of the body, located at the base of the spinal column).

The method to arousing love & bliss in the heart.

Sitting with the hands resting on the knees in Jnana Mudra, resolve that “Now while chanting the sacred sound of ‘Omkar, I will focus my attention fully on the present moment.” The mind will stay in the present for some time and then start weaving the web of useless thoughts. With the elongated chanting of ‘Omkar’ drag your mind back to the present. Coax your mind affectionately. After chanting ‘Omkar' 8-10 times, be calm.

Keep mentally watching the rhythmic beating of the heart in your chest as if your body is gaining the vitality to sustain its existence from the Cosmic Consciousness through the same heartbeats.

Associate your mind with the heartbeats by chanting mentally Om... Rama...

Om ...

Rama... rhythmically synchronizing with the heartbeats while contemplating the meaning of the mantra. Keep loving the all- pervading Supreme

Self that is expressing itself every moment in the form of heartbeats.

By paying full attention to these heartbeats in the present moment, the fancies and wild imaginations of past and future, that deplete our energy and rob us of our spiritual treasure, thus leaving us in a miserable state, will start decreasing; and the love and bliss will start arousing in the heart.

The means to be free from all sins and troubles through absorption in our divine nature.

The heart is purified by respecting the present. To respect the present means to live in the present, shunning the imaginations of the past and future.

By respecting what one experiences, the impurity of the mind is removed.

Our own experience is all the work is done only in the present. Even happiness and sorrow, gain and loss, etc., are experienced only in the present. Throw your imagination backwards in time and the past is created; throw your imagination forward in time and the future is created. Past and future are both established in the 'present'. Even the establishment of 'present' is dependent upon the experience of being- ‘I am. ’ ‘I am' is the experience of everyone but ‘who am I?' is what is not known perfectly.

In this world, almost everyone identifies himself or herself with the body and its name ‘I am so and so... I am Govind Bhai'. No, this is not our true identity. Now, by means of this sadhana, I will enquire as to - ‘What am 1 in reality? What is my true nature?' This quest of the ‘Infinite' will turn into a blissful auspicious journey.

Respect the present whilst setting out on this journey.

By respecting the present, one automatically becomes free from the imaginations of the past and future. It is the inherent nature of the mind to slide from the present moment and become engaged in the imaginations of the past and future.

The air breathed in is cold and when breathed out, it is warm; but the state that exists between the incoming and outgoing breath is beyond the five sheaths (bodies)- the Supreme Self (i.e. Absolute Consciousness). It is due to that very Consciousness that breaths run, come in and go out. One, who keeps vigil on this, merges with the divine nature (Supreme Self) and thus the Jiva attains to its substratum, all-pervading Brahman, like the seed becomes a tree and thereby becomes free from all troubles and sins very easily.

Before sitting for meditation, finish the most necessary tasks; and during meditation, do not contemplate unnecessary tasks. If the mind contemplates, chant Om... and save yourself from useless thoughts.

In the next issue of Brisbane Indian Times, we will talk about the magical science of auspicious mantras.

To listen Vedic/ knowledge stories or to listen 24X7 live divine Satsang, please search “Mangalmay live” on google, visit http://www. ashram.org/live or search “THE SBM STUDIO” on you tube. By the Divine Inspiration of Bapu ji, the weekly sessions of Bal Sanskar and yoga are held in Brisbane, Melbourne and in Sydney.

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

To know more about His Divine Holiness Bapu ji, please watch this video. https://bit.ly/2uZvJuN For more info about Bal Sanskar and yoga sessions, to get a free copy of monthly spiritual magazine RishiPrasad in your mailbox in Australia or to get free online subscription of Rishi -Prasad, please contact by email at bskamd@gmail. com or by WhatsApp/ phone to Shri Yoga Vedanta Seva Samiti Au & NZ Inc. at +61 426 834 434 & +61 405 277 802.

Grand Navaratri Celebration

By: Dharam Guru Pujya Pundit Tripathi Ji. 86 Scott Lane, North Maclean http://shreevishnumayamandir.org.au/ 04812 38360 60Everyone please come and join us in this Navaratri celebration!

Date: Sunday 15th of Oct till Monday 23rd of October 2023.

Time: Mon to Thurs 6:30pm onwards.

Friday, Saturday, Sunday - 4:00 to 8:00pm to8:00pm nd Maha Astami, Kanchika Poojan – Sunday 22

of October.

Mata Ki Chowki (4:00 to 8:00 pm) Sun Oct 15th, Fri Oct 20th, Sat Oct 21st & Sun Oct 22nd

Mahanaumi will be on Monday the 23rd of October Chowki Sponsor - $ 500.00

&

Food Sponsor - $400.00

Food (Maha Prasad) Will Be Provided Every Day Contact: Bharat: Solanki 04111 31485, Devika Maharaj 04248 91159, Rajesh Gopal: 04223 44046, Ranil Dayal: 04031 46575, or The Temple 5548 6814

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023 — 25

Who, What, Where, When...

Trayodashi Havan at Gayatri Mandir Boondall

Pundit Sanat Pandey ji conducting Trayodashi katha at Gayatri Mandir Boondall

The Vietnamese Community in Australia National Conference was launched at Queensland Parliament House. The Brisbane chapter was the host this year.

Multicultural Research advocates of CIRCA meet over dinner in Brisbane

Lord Mayor's charitable trust Ball this year was themed Enchanted Garden

Lady Mayoress Nina Schrinner (Centre) is the lord Mayor’s Charitable Trust board chair

Christine Castley, Mrs Usha Chandra, and Councillor Vicky Howard at Mosaic 2023 26 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023

Two for the price of one, Federal and State Treasurers at the launch of Multicultural Australia’s new premises in Logan Central

Who, What, Where, When...

Hajji Sultan Deen and Lord Mayor with BIT / AIR team at the twentieth-anniversary celebration

Manju Jehu with her reflections of the journey of Brisbane Indian Times

Guru Sai Saileshwara, Mrs Usha Chandra and Marina Chand at BIT 20th anniversary celebration

Manmohan Singh of Desi Rocks Entertainment, Deepak and Shelly Singh, Sam and Shabnam Abdul

John Fox, Lisa Ward, Scott Ward Call: (07) 3192 5188

Sarat Maharaj reflects on the journey of Brisbane Indian Times

Janeth Deen OAM and Charlie Shandil (DFAT) with John Fox of ECCQ and Sowmya Gowda of KSQ

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Prakash and Lorretta Shandil THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023 — 27

THE GREAT SAINT OF JEELAAN THE SULTAN OF THE AWLIYAA AL-GHAUTH AL-A'ZAM AS-SAYYID ABDUL QADIR AL-JEELANI (RA) By : ML.M.Nawaaz Ashrafi Sheikh Abdul Qadir Jelani was a noted Hanbali preacher, Sufi sheikh and the eponymous founder of the Qadiri Sufi order (silsila).

He was born in 1st Ramadan AH 470 (about AD 1077) in the Persian province of Gilan (Iran) south of the Caspian sea. His contribution and renown in the sciences of Sufism and Sharia was so immense that he became known as the spiritual pole of his time, al-Gauth al Azam (the “Supreme Helper” ). His writings were similar to those of al-Ghazali in that they dealt with both the fundamentals of Islam and the mystical experience of Sufism.

Parents and Early Life Abdul Qadir Jilani was a Sufi master and Syed (descendant of the Prophet Muhammad saw) from both his father and mother. His father Abu Saleh Jangidost, was an illustrious and Godfearing man. Once while engrossed in meditation by the bank of a river he saw an apple floating down the river. He picked it up and ate it. It struck to him that he ate the apple without paying for it so he set out in search of the owner, on the bank of the river and at last reached the owner of the apple orchard “Abdullah Somai” whom he requested to tell him the price of the apple, Abdullah Somai replied that it was an expensive thing. Syed Abu Saleh replied that he had not much by way of worldly material but he, could serve him for compensation.

Abdullah Somai then asked him to work for a year in the orchard. In course of time the duration was extended several times. In the end Abdullah Somai admitted that he had served him in excess of the price and desired to reward him.

Abu Saleh hesitated in accepting it but when Abdullah Somai persisted, he relented. He said he had a daughter, blind of eyes, handicapped of hands and feet and wanted to give her in marriage to him. In this way Abu Saleh was married to Abdullah Somai’s daughter, Syeda Fatimah.

To his astonishment

found her wondrously beautiful and wholesome.

He complained to his father-in-law that he found her exactly the opposite to what he had described her.

Abdullah Somai insisted on the truthfulness of his statement. She was blind because she had not seen any Ghair Mehram (a man who could marry her).

She was mute because she had not uttered a word repugnant to the Shariah (Islamic law). She was deaf because she had not heard anything inconsistent with the Shariah. She was handicapped of hand and feet because she had never moved in the direction of evil.

Shaikh Abdul Qadir Jilani’s father died soon after and the young orphan was reared up by his mother and his grandfather, Abdullah Somai.

Adult life At the age of 18 he went to Baghdad on AH 488 (1095 AD), where he pursued the study of Hanbali law under several teachers.

His mother sewed 40 gold coins in his quilt so that he might spend them when needed. The dacoits struck the caravan on the way, and looted all the travelers of their belongings. They asked him what he had. He replied that he had 40 gold coins.

The dacoits took his reply for a joke and took him to their chief, who asked him the same question and he again replied that he had

40 gold coins. He demanded him to show, upon whom he tore away, the quilt and produced the gold coins. He was surprised and asked him why he had given the hidden gold coins when he could have kept them hidden. Young Abdul Qadir Jilani replied that he was travelling to Baghdad to receive education and his mother had instructed him to speak the truth. This left a deep effect on the chief of the dacoits and he gave up looting.

Abdul Qadir received lessons on Islamic Jurisprudence from Abu Said Ali al-Mukharrimi, Hadith from Abu-Bakra-binMuzaffar, and commentary (tafseer) from the renowned commentator, Abu Muhammad Jafar.

In Sufism, his spiritual instructor was Shaikh Abu’l-Khair Hammad. From him, he received his basic training, and with his help he set out on the spiritual journey. Abu Shuja’ was also a disciple of Shaikh Hammad, once he said: “Shaikh Abdul Qadir was in the company of Shaikh Hammad, so he came and sat in front of him, observing the best of good manners, until he stood up and took his leave. I heard Shaikh Hammad say, as soon as Shaikh Abdul Qadir had left: ‘This non-Arab has a foot that will be raised, when the proper time comes, and placed upon the necks of the

saints of that time. He will surely be commanded to say: This foot of mine is upon the neck of every saint of Allah.

He will surely say it, and the necks of all the saints of his age will surely be bent at his disposal.’” Hazrat Junayd Baghdadi (died AD 910), who died about 167 years before the birth of Shaikh Abdul Qadir Jilani, predicted about him on one occasion, when he was performing meditation & during that he said: “His foot will be over all Saints’ necks.” After finishing meditation, his disciples asked him about his words, he replied: “One Sufi would be born in the future, who would be greater than all saints.” Thus, Shaikh Hammad proved the words of Hazrat Junayd as right.

The historians says that, later Shaikh Abdul Qadir Jilani also repeated the same words on many occasion by himself.

Spiritual Lineage, Shajra Mubarak • Prophet Muhammad (SW) • The Caliph Ali ibn Abi Talib • Sheikh Hasan Basri • Sheikh Habib Ajami • Sheikh Dawood Taiee • Sheikh Ma’ruf Karkhi • Sheikh Sari Saqati • Sheikh Junayd alBaghdadi • Sheikh Abu Bakr Shibli • Sheikh Abdul Aziz alTamimi • Sheikh Abu al-Fadl Abu

al-Wahid al-Tamim • Sheikh Abu al-Farah Tartusi • Sheikh Abu al-Hasan Hakari • Sheikh Abu Sa’id alMubarak Mukharrami • Sheikh Abdul Qadir Jilani The Grand Sufi Shaikh After completion of education, Hazrat Abdul Qadir Jilani abandoned the city of Baghdad, and spent twenty-five years as a wanderer in the desert regions of Iraq as a recluse.

He was over fifty years old by the time he returned to Baghdad, in AH 521 (AD 1127), and began to preach in public. His hearers were profoundly affected by the style and content of his lectures, and his reputation grew and spread through all sections of society. Not only Muslims, but also Jews and Christians, not only caliphs and viziers but also farmers, merchants and traders allegedly altered their lives in response to Abdul Qadir’s perorations. He moved into the school belonging to his old teacher al-Mukharrimii, there he engaged himself in teaching. Soon he became popular with his pupils.

In the morning he taught hadith and tafseer, and in the afternoon held discourse on mysticism and the virtues of the Qur’an. The number of students increased so much that the seminary could no more contain them. He, therefore, decided to extend

the premises of the seminary.

The students and the people willingly came forward with their wholehearted contributions. The campus buildings were ready in AH 528 and thereafter it came to be known as Madarsaie-Qadriya.Hazrat Abdul Qadir Jilani was a Non-Arab (ajami), so he wasn’t fluent in Arabic and was having some difficulties because of it.

Once The Prophet Muhammad (s) came to him in a dream, before the time of the midday prayer (Zuhr), and he said to him: “O my dear son, why do you not speak out?” He replied: “O dear father, I am a Non-Arab man. How can I speak fluently in the classical Arabic language of Baghdad?” Holy Prophet said: “Just open your mouth!”

He opened his mouth, and The Holy Prophet put his saliva mubarak seven times in his mouth. A few moments later, Hazrat Ali ibn Abi Talib also came & did the same to him six times. And from that time, Hazrat Abdul Qadir Jilani spoke classical Arabic language with fluency, his memory increased and he felt some great positive spiritual changes in him.

Once some one asked Shaikh Abdul Qadir Jilani about Mansur Al-Hallaj, he replied: “His claim extended too far, so the scissors of the Sacred Law (Shari’a) were empowered to clip it.”

He busied himself for forty years in the service of the Islam from AH 521 to 561.

During this period hundreds embraced Islam because of him and organized several teams to go abroad for the purpose. He arrived in Indian sub-continent in AD 1128, and stayed at Multan (Pakistan). He died in AH 561 (AD 1166) at the age of 91 years, and was buried in Baghdad.

“My Foot is on the Neck of All Awliyaa” Sheikh Abdul Qadir Jilani uttered these words from the pulpit in Baghdad. All awliya, present and nonpresent, bowed their heads in submission.Sheikh Abdul Qadir Jilani’s foot is on the neck of all awliya.

The Awliya (Beloved Friends) of Allah The Muslim believes that Allah the Almighty has chosen some of His servants to be His devotees, making them act in obedience, and honouring them with His Love, and giving them of from His

grace. He is their Supporter, loves them and draws them nearer to Him. In turn, they are His devotees who love and revere Him. They do whatever He commands them and recommend others to do the same. They

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refrain from whatever He forbids and advise others to refrain from it. They love what He loves and hate what He hates. If they ask Him, He gives them. If they seek His aid, He aids them.

If they seek refuge in Him,

He grants them asylum.

They are the men of piety and belief, dignity and good news in both this life and in the Hereafter. Each pious believer is one of the Awliyaa' of Allah.

They differ in only grades

proportional to their belief and piety. The more one's share of piety and belief, the higher his rank and dignity before Allah. Those with the most grace are the Prophets and the Messengers of Allah, then, the believers.

The Muslim believes in all of the phenomenon and miracles that Allah causes to occur by their hands.

Events such as the increase of otherwise little amounts of food, curing the diseased CONTD. ON PG 29

The Awliya (Beloved Friends) of Allah CONTD. FROM PG 28 and the ill, crossing oceans (without navigational means), and fire that causes no harm etc. It is important to differentiate between Al-Kaaramah -the phenomenon (which is given to the devotee) and Al-Mu'jizah - the miracle (which is given to the Messenger). The miracle is accompanied by a challenge while the phenomenon is not. Among the greatest phenomenon is abiding in obedience by doing what is commanded in the Shari'ah (Islamic Law) and staying away from what is prohibited.

Textual Proofs 1. The statements of Allah the Almighty such as: "No doubt! Verily, the Awliya' of Allah, no fear shall come upon them nor shall they grieve. Those who believed, and used to fear Allah much (by abstaining from evil deeds and sins and by doing righteous deeds). For them are glad tidings, in the life of the present world, and in the Hereafter. No change can there be in the Words of Allah. This is indeed the supreme success." (10:6264) And: {Every time Zakariyya entered AlMihraab (a place to pray) to (visit) her, he found her supplied with sustenance.

He said: '0 Maryam! From where have you gotten this?' She said, 'This is from Allah.'} (3:37) And: {Allah is the Wali (Protector) of those who believe. He brings them out from darkness into light.} (2:257) And: {And they are not its (Al-Masjid Al-Haram's) guardians? None can be its guardians except the pious.} (8:34) And: {Verily, Yunus was one of the Messengers.

When he ran to the laden ship. Then he (agreed to) cast lots, and he was among the losers. Then a (big) fish swallowed him as he had done an act worthy of blame. Had he not been of them who glorify Allah, He would have indeed remained inside its belly (the fish) until the Day of Resurrection.} (37:139-144) And: {Verily, my Wali (Protector) is Allah Who has revealed the Book (the Qur'an), and He protects the righteous.} (7:196) And: {Thus it was, that We might turn away from him evil and immorality.

Surely, he was one of Our chosen (guided) servants.} (12:24) And: {Certainly, you shall have no authority over My servants.} (15:42) And: {Then cried unto her from below her, saying: 'Grieve not: your Lord has provided a water stream under you. And shake the trunk of date palm towards

you, it will let fall fresh ripe dates upon you. So eat and drink and be glad.’} (19:2426) And:{We (Allah) said: 'O fire! Be you coolness and safety for Ibrahim!' And they wanted to harm him, but We made them the worst losers.} (21:69-70) And: {Do you think that people of the Cave and the Inscription (the news or the names of the people of the Cave) were a wonder among Our Signs? (Remember) when the young men fled for refuge (from their disbelieving folk) to the Cave. They said: 'Our Lord!

Bestow on us mercy from Yourself, and facilitate for us our affair in the right way!' Therefore, We covered up their (sense of) hearing (causing them to go in deep sleep) in the Cave for a number of years. Then We raised them up (from their sleep).} (18:9-12) 2. Allah's Messenger (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) informed about the Awliyaa' of Allah and their grace, according to what he narrated from Allah: "Whoever shows hostility to My Wali, I proclaim war against him. My servant does not draw near to Me by anything more beloved to Me than what I have made obligatory upon him.

My servant continues to draw near to Me by the voluntary deeds, until I love Him. When I love him, I will be his hearing with

which he hears, his sight with which he sees, his hand with which he strikes, and his feet with which he walks. If he asks Me, I will surely give him. And if he seeks refuge in Me, I will surely give him refuge."

(Agreed upon) The Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) said: "Indeed Allah has men, such that if one of them swears that a thing will be done, it will be done."

(Agreed upon with the wording "servants" instead of "men.")

And: "Among the nations before you there were Muhaddathun (people who were inspired, though they were not Prophets). And if there is any such a person among my followers, it would be 'Umar" (Agreed upon) He (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) also said, "A woman was nursing her infant when she saw a man mounting a high horse, she said: 'O Allah! Make my infant like that man.' The infant looked at the man and said: 'O Allah! Do not make me the like of him.'"

(Agreed upon) Allah (a'zza wa jall) mentioned the three people that were trapped in the cave, petitioning Allah by their good deeds, so Allah opened the way for them and they escaped safely after petitioning Him by their good deeds. (Agreed upon)

In the Hadeeth about monk and the boy, the boy threw a stone killing the beast that was preventing the people from passing.

Thus the people were able to pass. This also was a miracle showing the dignity of the boy. When the king tried to kill the boy, he could not. He threw him from the top of a high mountain, he did not die. Then he threw him in the sea but he emerged walking out of it. This also was a miracle dignifying the righteous boy. (Al-Bukhari) 3. Thousands of scholars and witnesses narrate the phenomenon’ of countless number of individuals.[1] Like the report that says that the angels used to shake hands with 'Imran bin Husayn, may Allah be pleased with him. That Salman Al-Farisi and Abu Ad-Darda' were eating in a bowl and they heard the bowl or the food glorifying Allah. While Khubayb was a captive of the pagans in Makkah, he was seen eating grapes, while there were no grapes in Makkah.

Al-Bara' bin 'Azib, may Allah be pleased with him, is one of those who if he swore (by Allah) that anything would be done, it was done. When it was the day of Qaadisiyyah, he petitioned Allah that the Muslims overpower the polytheists and that he be the first martyr of the battle. It was thus.

'Umar bin Khattab, may Allah be pleased with him, was delivering the Friday sermon on the pulpit of the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) in Al-Madinah, and behold! He was heard saying: "O Sariyah! The mountain!" He repeated it twice directing the leader of the army to a better position.

Sariyah, who was far from Al-Madinah, heard the call and retreated to the mountain. The army was victorious. When Sariyah returned to Al-Madinah, he told 'Umar and the Companions what he heard.

Al-'Ala' Al-Hadrami, may Allah be pleased with him, used to pray: "O All-Knower, All-Wise, the Most High, the Most Great!" His supplications were responded to. Once he crossed the sea with a troop yet the saddles of their horses did not get wet.

Al-Hassan Al-Basri prayed to Allah against a man who used to hurt him; instantly, the man died.

The donkey of a man from Nakh'a died while he was travelling. The man performed Wudoo' (ablution), prayed two Rak'ahs and called upon Allah. And behold! Allah resurrected his donkey for him and the man carried his luggage on it. There are countless cases of phenomenon witnessed by thousands, even millions of people.

Kavita ji

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023 — 29

The Spirit of Society 1956 DMC – Shrii Shrii Anandamurti The spirit of the word Samája (society) signifies a group of people who move together. All are not of equal strength or intellect. Hence the shortcomings in one must be compensated for by another. Different people have varying abilities: some have physical strength but no brains; others have the brains but not the strength to work; and others have neither the strength not the brains, but work well and with a peaceful mind under the guidance of their supervisors. We can always see around us people of differing types and qualities. Judged by the crude codes of this world, no one is totally independent.

Everyone relies on someone else in some way or other.

Everyone makes up for their deficiencies by taking help from others.

Whenever a large group of people strive to make up for their relative differences on terms of mutual understanding, we call it a society or society.

What is society like? It is like a group of people going on a pilgrimage.

Try to imagine the scene!

Suppose one of the pilgrims is struck down by cholera. Will the rest of them continue on their way, leaving the sick man behind? No, that would be inconceivable for them.

Rather, they will break their journey for a day or two and cure him of his disease. If he is still too weak to walk, they will carry him on their shoulders. If some people run short of food, others share what they have with them. Together they share their possessions, and together they march ahead, singing in unison.

In their eagerness to move ahead with others they forget their trifling differences which might have led to angry exchanges and court cases in their families, even down to three generations. It is because of the petitions of the complainant in a land dispute that some people go so far as to spend ten or twenty times more than the piece of land is worth.

The essence of cooperation resulting from this collective movement aims at expanding a person’s mind by striking down the barriers of meanness.

I repeat that a true society is like such a group of pilgrims who attain a deep psychic affinity while travelling together which helps them solve all the problems in their individual and social lives.

If we take the full meaning of the term society into consideration,

it will be seen that till now human beings have not been able to form a real society. If India builds a society for only Indians, Pakistan for only Pakistanis, and England for only the English, then three separate societies will exist, but we cannot look upon them as the society of humanity.

Because humanity is divided into groups, one society will naturally try to thrive by exploiting the vitality of others.

On observation you will notice that efforts are being made to establish so-called societies in some particular part of the world, for some particular section of the people, and based on some particular “ism” or faith. A social consciousness based on such divisions lies latent in the minds of the people, whether they are Indian, Pakistani or English, so they remain absorbed in thoughts of their smaller groups. It is actually due to some external impact that social consciousness takes the form of a really all-embracing Indian, Pakistani or English consciousness. The social consciousness of an enslaved nation is never more keenly felt than when the people are at war with the dominating colonial power.

After independence that consciousness is lost.

Examples of antisocial fissiparous tendencies do not stop here. Even in different regions of the same country people do not live within one social group. The creeds of the Brahmins, the Rajputs, the Kayasthas, and other different castes urge people to belong to their own societies. And yet the antisocial spirit of self-differentiation does not end here. There are the even smaller groups of Bundellas, Rathores, Sishodiyas and Caohans among the Rajputs, and there is the antisocial eagerness for relative supremacy in the social sphere between the Painca Gaodiiyas and Painca Dravidiis of the Brahmins.

To what state has society effectively been reduced? I reaffirm the fact that human beings have still not been able to form a human society and have still not learned to move with the spirit of a pilgrim. Although many small groups, motivated by self-interest, work together in particular situations, not even a small fraction of their work is done with a broader social motive.

By strict definition, shall we have to declare that each small family unit

30 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023

is a society in itself? If going ahead in mutual adjustment only out of narrow self-interest or momentary self-seeking is called society, then in such a society, no provision can be made for the disabled, the diseased or the helpless, because in most cases nobody can benefit from them in any way. Hence it will not suffice to say that all people marching ahead is only a collective form of segregated psychic phenomena; for in that case there always remains the possibility of some people getting isolated from the collective. All human beings must attach themselves to others by the common bond of love, and march forward hand in hand, then only will I proclaim it a society.

these problems are solved with mutual cooperation, the more beneficial it will be. We must remember in this regard that rights and responsibilities belong to all. Lack of consciousness about rights and responsibilities drives social beings towards a tragic end. It results in the collective fate of living beings being determined by a particular dominating group. The vital energy of society is sapped through such group or class exploitation.

Nature’s wealth belongs to all living beings. What is a burden to the earth is a burden to all. Disregard of these ultimate truths eventually leads to disorder in social life, and society’s potentialities are destroyed before they have a chance to develop.

You will hear many a vain and assuming person say, “I don’t need anyone’s help, I’m doing very well by myself. I don’t want to concern myself with anyone else’s affairs and I don’t expect anyone else to bother about mine.”

Nothing could be more foolish than this statement.

Medicine and nursing are necessary to cure diseases; the neighbours’ help is needed to cremate a dead body; and for the regular supply of food and cloth the cooperation of farmers and spinners is essential. Remember, no created being in this universe is independent.

No one can exist alone, everyone has a supracosmic relationship with the whole, at times prominent, at times indistinguishable.

In this scheme of mutual relationships, even the slightest mistake or discord will raise a furious furore in the universe. In this mighty creation, the brilliantly luminous sun and the tiny ant have the same existential value, having combined together to make the universal family.

Similarly, in human society, the importance of a powerful and eminent person is no less than that of a disabled and dying patient. None can be ignored. The least injustice done to anyone will cause the breakdown of the entire social framework.

Why have schools been established? Is it not to enable children to learn? All parents want their progeny to acquire knowledge and develop intellect.

But even today many parents are unable to send their children to schools. Why is this? Surely, everyone should be given equal opportunities to benefit from any institution established for public welfare. This is everyone’s birthright. Some people wear a mask of culture in public, but in private pursue personal or class interests. This hypocrisy has no place in the human society. It is the cause of the sad state of education in the world today. The same is true for the supply of food, clothing, housing and medical care. The significance of founding a true society lies in solving all problems in a collective way.

In this universe of living beings there are some fundamental problems applicable to all which are to be solved by all. These problems may be taken as the common features in the life and Dharma of living beings, and the all-round health of living beings depends on the happy solution of these problems. The more

There are some tendencies and instincts which are manifest in both animals and humans. In fact, these tendencies are the evidence for existence of animality in humans.

These tendencies may be suppressed in the face of stern rhetoric, but to do that is not only undesirable but impossible, because they support the principle structure of existence.

Having identical tendencies, humans and animals both belong to the same category of living beings. The difference lies in the fact that the animal in a human body can refine those tendencies and express them in a more subtle manner. This refinement is called culture. To eat is equally essential for all, but people, even when extremely hungry, do not rush up to the table like dogs and sit down to eat with total disregard

for their surroundings.

Unless their hunger is more powerful than the faculty of reasoning, they will wash their hands before eating. This is a part of culture.

Civilization is not unchanging.

There is nothing stationary on this earth – everything is dynamic. Civilization is also a progressive phenomenon, moving from good to better, from imperfection to perfection towards the ultimate goal: perfect Brahma. The greater the tendency of refinement in people, the more cultured they are.

We must remember that refinement and hypocrisy are not the same. There is a heaven and hell difference between the external show and the inner motives of a hypocrite, and the inner and outer consistency of a refined individual.

Whatever is done in a refined way, is done with reasoning and propriety, and thus, instead of being a cause of social breakdown, will be a cause of social well-being.

Let me give an example.

The drinking of water is basically an animal instinct. It would reveal a complete lack of culture for anyone to drink drainwater simply because they were thirsty. To ascertain whether the water is pure before drinking, and to ensure that all towns and villages receive a regular supply of pure water, are signs of a civilized society.

But to say, “I’m doing a dry fast” after having secretly drunk a glass of water is the height of hypocrisy.

Judged in the relative perspective, the more civilized we become, the more helpless we become. A new-born baby is completely helpless.

Just think of the plight of a helpless child in the delivery room the very first day it appears in society! The more cultured people become in a refined social environment, the greater their sense of duty for their children. For this reason, children lose the capacity to do anything themselves.

According to the Laws of Nature, the more developed the mother’s affection and intellect, the more dependent the child becomes on its mother.

In the animal world, the lesser the maternal affection, the shorter the time it takes the offspring to grow strong and selfdependent. Nature takes the responsibility of assisting those neglected offspring by providing them with the necessary survival instincts.

A baby monkey has to learn quickly to cling to

its mother’s belly as the mother needs to use all four limbs to jump around the forest. The mother can’t carry her baby by its neck, because the baby would die if its neck was twisted. A kitten, however, is blind at birth and thus unable to see its mother, let alone cling to her belly.

Thus, mother cat is obliged to carry her babies in her mouth. A baby rhinoceros, on the other hand, runs away from its mother after birth! And rightly so, for the mother’s tongue is so rough that several licks might actually kill the baby. The baby rhinoceros waits for its skin to harden a little before returning to its mother.

Society must ensure that proper care is taken of human babies who are totally dependent on the care and protection of their parents for their existence. These helpless children can only convey their pain and discomfort through tears. To raise children from infancy to maturity is an immensely important task. I have said before that the members of society must advance in unison. The newborn baby is another traveller on the path. To adopt a child as our companion, as one included in the society, is called the “Játakarma” of the child.

Living beings may be divided into two main groups based on intellect: those who want to share their wisdom, and those who do not.

Those who favour the exchange of wisdom have a greater social awareness. But those who oppose it cannot develop a collective social mind due to a lack of mutual understanding.

Human beings are basically beings of social inclination. They must always remember that those possessing little strength and ability, and those not provided with the means to survive the struggle for life by Nature, must be led along in companionship. Those who take great pains to assist the helpless are more civilized and endowed with greater awareness. They are the socially minded beings who readily embrace the underprivileged, the downtrodden and the rejected people of society.

Ananda Marga keeps its gates open so that each and every man and woman may enter. Anybody may join, anybody may sing in chorus with the rest.

The united march of the people is a march of victory. Ananda Marga states this in unequivocal language.

1956 DMC

Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan (DJJS) staged ‘Shrimad Bhagwat Katha Gyan Yagya’ We, Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan (DJJS), are pleased to inform you about the event ‘Shrimad Bhagwat Katha Gyan Yagya’, which was a 7-day narration event accompanied by melodious devotional songs was held in Brisbane at SunPac Centre Sunnybank, from 25th August to 31st August 2023.

Renowned BHAGWAT KATHA Viyas Sadhvi Vaishnavi Bharti ji, daughter disciple of His Holiness (Ashutosh Maharaj ji), conducted this Katha. The narration was based on one of the most studied, quoted, researched and ahead-of-its-time scriptures called BHAGWAT GITA. This scripture has profoundly influenced many great leaders of their times in their respective fields. The most current is India’s Prime Minister ‘Shri Narendra Modi’ who quoted this scripture several times when asked about his inspiration for his welfare and foreign policies.

This is the need of our times when the world is going through so much turmoil. The greatness of Bhagwat Katha has been stated in several spiritual scriptures as mere listening to this 7-day narration can be transformational for one’s life, especially when done by spiritually awakened souls, as it emanates divine vibration that brings positivity and clarity of thought. For this event, DJJS has invited a team of 8 to 10 full-time volunteers from India who have been bestowed with the same knowledge of Selfrealization that Lord Krishna discussed in Bhagwat Gita.

Around 2000 devotees from various communities have attended this divine event.

List of DJJS preachers, Media Partners and Sponsors DJJS Preachers (who delivered the lecture):Sadhvi Vaishnavi Bharti, Sadhvi Bhavana Bharti, Sadhvi Kiran Bharti, Sadhvi Poonam Bharti, Sadhvi Hariarchana Bharti, Swami Muditanand, Pandit Ashutosh Uniyal Media Partners Australian Indian Radio and Brisbane Indian Times Sponsors Education Embassy, Golgappa Street Food, Krishna Groceries and Spices,

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River City Lawyers, AusIndia Travels, CAABA Accountants, AATO Australian Accounting and Tax Services, SPAR Edens Landing, R.S. Enterprises Qld Pty Ltd, Onestop Groceries, Shree Balaji Foods, OZ Force Security, FPL Hire, Hero Estate Agent, Greater Sponsorship Indian Association Inc (GSIA), Sankalp Restaurants, Tulsi Groceries, Khatta Meetha Indian Sweets and Restaurant, Indian Cultural Association, Australia (ICAA), Brisbane Friends Group, Queensland Gujrati, Curry Express Indian Restaurant, Indian Community of Gold Coast (ICGC), Punjabi Taste Indian restaurant, Raag Couture, Bhalla’s Indian Restaurant, Loaney Home Loan, Sunny The Property Guru.

List of dignitaries 1 Guest: Senator Gerard Rennick MP, Senator, Member Of Parliament, Liberal Party of Australia, Queensland Government 2 Guest: James Martin MP, Member, Health and Environment Committee, Queensland Government 3 Guest: Mark Robinson MP, Minister for Multicultural Communities and International Student Attraction, Queensland Government 4 Guest: Cr Angela Owen Councillor, Representing Lord Mayor, Brisbane City Council 5 Guest ;Mr. Umesh Chandra OAM, Order of Australia Medal, CEO, Chantex Pty Ltd Brisbane Indian Times and Australian Indian Radio, Executive Vice President GOPIO International 6 Guest: Magistrate Veena Goverdhan, Magistrate, Magistrates Court of Queensland 7 Guest: Mr. Rakesh Sharma, Convenor, past president GOPIO Brisbane, Radio 4eb

8 Guest: Mr. Saurabh Agarwal, Owner, Education Embassy 9 Guest: Mr. Parveen Gupta, Principal Solicitor, River City Lawyers 10 Guest: Mr Satinder Shukla, President, Shree Laxmi Narayan Temple 11 Guest: Mrs. Tanvi Goel, Founder and Head, AusIndia Travel 12 Guest: Mrs. Lila Pratap, President (Founder)Damini Women’s Association of Qld Inc 13 Guest: Mr Paviter Kumar Noori, General Secretary and Director, South Asian Network and Quicken Solution Pty Ltd 14 Guest: Mr. Rajiv Kumar, Owner Krishna Groceries 15 Guest: Mr. Pars Ram Punj, Chairman Parsam Food Pty Ltd 16 Guest: Mr. Indukant Sharma, President GOPIO Brisbane 17 Guest: Mr. Steve Hart, TV Journalist Channel 7 18 Guest: Mr. Sailagram Sharma, Ex-President Gayatri Pariwar 19 Guest: Mr Jogindra Modi, President of Hindu Council of Australia, Queensland 20 Guest: Dr Anil & Jaya Dalsania, Sanghchalak, Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh, Queensland 21 Guest: Mr Umang Rajani, President Sewa Australia, Queensland 22 Guest: Mr. Yashpal Dhanda, Sampark Pramukh, Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh 23 Guest: Mr. Suresh Limbani Nagar Karyavaha, Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh 24 Guest: Mr Manish Saini, Team Member Indian Community of Gold Coast (ICGC) 25 Guest: Mr Nareen Singh, Team Member Indian Community of Gold Coast (ICGC) 26 Guest: Mr Mukesh Dubey, Director/Principal Hero Estate Agents

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023 — 31

Annual Gandhi Jayanti by GOPIO Queensland Since 2014, on 2 October, GOPIO Queensland has been organising Gandhi Jayanti at Roma Street Parklands.

Before the inauguration of the Gandhi Ji statue, the event was held under the tree directly opposite the current

statue site. In 2014, Umesh Chandra OAM was the event coordinator, Yusuf Alikhan was the president of GOPIO Queensland, Professor Prasad Yarlagadda OAM attended as president of FICQ, and Professor Sarva Daman Singh

was the keynote speaker; after the celebration, the Gandhi statue committee meeting took place. GOPIO Patron Dr Maha Sinnathamby AM, Jim Varghese AM, Hemant and Kalpana Naik were all present.

Since then, every year, GOPIO Queensland has taken the lead role in organising Gandhi Jayanti at Roma Street, supported by other key organisations such as FICQ, AIBC, GSML and others.

This year, the MC for Gandhi Jayanti was Vikas Sinha.

GOPIO Queensland president Indu Kant Sharma spoke first and welcomed everyone

to the event.

Professor Sarva Daman Singh OAM spoke next, followed by Jim Varghese AM representing GSML; Umesh Chandra OAM spoke next, representing GOPIO International; Mul Chand, vice president of FICQ, spoke next, and Hemant Naik, representing Gandhi Statue committee, was the last speaker; he also led the

popular Gandhi bhajans.

Delightful children enacted Gandhi Ji’s salt march, marching to the song “De di Hamme azadi bina Khadag Bina Daal”. Refreshments were served to attendees.

Other dignitaries, such as Nik Senapati, Surendra Prasad OAM, Sanjeev Sharma, Shyam Das, etc., were acknowledged.

I am a recipient of many miracles in my life. And I know that many of my friends and family also have encountered the supernatural favour.

This is purely as the result of relationship that we have been developing through the Holy Scriptures. It has nothing to do with our great service to our job or community, it is simply knowing who we are as God’s children. Therefore the greatest miracle that happened to me was the changing of my heart and mind.

When we learn to humble and accept the free gift of God’s love and mercy to touch your hearts, you qualify for a miracle.

When you say a prayer with childlike faith and sincere heart, God send a miracle power your way. No amount of good works or million dollars can buy or create a miracle.

Miracle is simply learning to know and say YES to our Creator and Lord Jesus and letting His love flood our hearts. Therefore the greatest miracle is when you know you have been forgiven and made a new creation.

If you need a miracle today, why not say YES to the Miracle Maker Jesus Christ. Say this prayer with sincere hearts; “Father God, I need your help, forgive me, heal me, I believe that Jesus died for my sins and rose again to give me a life of miracles. Bless me with your unlimited grace and mercy.

Thank you God in Jesus name I pray, Amen”. Friends if you said this prayer for the first time, write to us, so we can help you to grow in the life of supernatural miracles that are waiting for you.

Our email is: navig8grace@ gmail.com

2014

God Set Eternity in the Human Heart…

Jesus said “Arise and Shine…”

Key Scripture: Ecclesiastes 3:11 (AMP) God has made everything beautiful and appropriate in its time. He has also planted eternity [a sense of divine purpose] in the human heart [a mysterious longing which nothing under the sun can satisfy, except God] yet, man cannot find out (comprehend, grasp) what God has done (His overall plan) from the beginning to the end.

Dear Reader, We want to welcome you to the beautiful hidden world that God has created. Recently we had wonderful experience in Switzerland. We were invited by our Swiss friends Hans and Klara. We visited their beautiful village called Mund situated in Swiss alps.

From Zurich we travelled to Brig by Swiss train. This journey was super spectacular.

Mund is situated in the German-speaking part of the canton of Valais, perched at 1,200 metres in altitude. Of its roughly 500 people live in Mund. We were quietly surprised to know there are around 100 Saffron growers.

The commune is famous for

the spice, which it has been growing since the 14th century.

Here we hiked many mountains and experienced the beauty and the majesty of glorious snow caped peaks. We were reminded of the amazing verse in the Holy Scriptures.

Truly God has made everything beautiful… God invites us to enjoy His creation. But many people fail to recognise and accept this amazing invitation.

Why and how is this possible?

There are three main reasons.

1. Humans have rejected God as a grand Creator 2. Humans heart and eyes are blinded by sin

32 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023

3. Humans fails understand that eternity is in our DNA So, what is the remedy?

Jesus offers new life. Jesus said “I am the way and the Truth and Life. He is able to give us a new heart and new eyes. We can experience his grand creation with a new mind.

Many years ago, I was one of those who did understand this truth about Jesus. But when I accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Saviour, I received a new heart. This is not a physical heart, but a spiritual heart. I was born again with a new mindset. This mindset helped me to understand God as loving and compassionate person.

And by this truth all are able to relate to His wonderful creation. Then they can experience His unconditional

love. His agape love.

Therefore it is essential for all humans recognise their sin.

Ask God to forgive our sins.

Our sins can only be forgiven by the grace of God. This grace is clearly and completely demonstrated through the cross. On the cross Jesus took the punishment for all the sins of humans. He died for our sins. Then on the third day Jesus was resurrected by the Holy Spirit. Through a humble and a repentant attitude we can receive this amazing grace.

God is not an object or an image or an imagination of human mind. God is a living and loving person. We find this amazing revelation in the pages of Holy Bible.

Keep reading His Words with an open heart and humble spirit. You will encounter His awesome forgiveness, mercy and unfailing love.

Celebrating Navratri with Devi Pooja:

Uniting for a greater purpose. Our Community Comes Together to Honor the Goddess and Build a Spiritual Home As Navratri approaches, the spirit of devotion and celebration fills the air as our local Hindu community gears up for the grand Navratri Devi Pooja. This year, the festivities hold a special significance, serving as a platform to kickstart fundraising efforts to construct the first Hindu temple on the Gold Coast.

Navratri, a nine-night festival dedicated to the Goddess Durga, is celebrated with unparalleled enthusiasm by Hindus around the world.

It signifies the triumph of good over evil and the divine feminine power that sustains the universe.

This year, the Navratri Devi Pooja is about celebrating the Goddess and coming together for a shared dream – the construction of a new temple that will serve as a spiritual haven for generations to come. Though small, the local community of Gold Coast has displayed unwavering commitment, and now, we seek the support of the broader Hindu community to realise this vision. The new temple project promises to preserve our cultural heritage, nurture spirituality, and foster unity. With a design that pays homage to traditional architectural elements and modern functionality, it is

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poised to symbolise our devotion and resilience.

To fund this dream, the temple committee has launched a fundraising campaign. The devi pooja fundraiser is not just an event; it’s a spiritual journey, a celebration of unity, and an opportunity to contribute to a more significant cause.

During the Navratri Devi Pooja, devotees will have the chance to contribute to this noble cause. Big and small donations will be accepted, and all proceeds will go toward the temple's construction.

The new temple aims to be more than just a place of worship. It will be a centre for cultural activities, festivals, educational programs, and meditation. In a time when people seek solace and spiritual connection, it will stand as a beacon of light, welcoming seekers of all backgrounds.

While we would love to have you with us in person, we also recognise that circumstances may prevent your physical attendance.

However, your support can still play a crucial role. Your generous donations, no matter the amount, can help us achieve our mission and realise the dream of building the first Hindu temple and

cultural centre on the Gold Coast. We are seeking your help to create a spiritual haven for our community.

By supporting our Devi pooja fundraiser, you become a part of something greater than yourself, a force for good that transcends physical boundaries. We are deeply grateful for your generosity and belief in our cause. Let us unite in spirit and action to improve the world.

Your contribution will make a meaningful difference.

If you'd like to be part of this noble endeavour, you can visit our temple during the Navratri Devi Pooja and contribute. Donations are also accepted online through our official website at [https:// culture.goldcoasthindu. org/]. Every dollar brings us closer to turning this dream into a reality. From Bricks to Blessings: Varied Donation Options How to Get Involved Building a temple is a monumental task

that requires the entire community's support.

To ensure that everyone can contribute, we've introduced a range of donation options: Sponsor Bricks: For those who wish to contribute to the very foundation of our temple, the "Sponsor a Brick" option allows you to symbolically purchase bricks that will be used in the temple's construction.

Each brick sponsor is a step

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closer to realising our dream. https:// www.givenow.com. au/gchcan Sponsor a Deity: You can connect directly with the divine by sponsoring one of the deities residing in our new temple. This option allows you to forge a personal connection with the divine and have your name associated with the deity's blessings. https://culture. goldcoasthindu.org/wpcontent/uploads/donform. html Become a Life Member: By becoming a Life Member of our spiritual and cultural organisation, you support the temple construction and become an integral part of our community. Life Members receive exclusive benefits and opportunities to participate in our cultural and spiritual

activities. https://culture. goldcoasthindu.org/wpcontent/uploads/donform. html One-Time Donation Sponsoring Devi Pooja: We welcome one-time donations of any amount.

Every contribution, big or small, is a significant step toward realising our temple project. https://www.trybooking.com/ events/landing/1123448 Our hearts are filled with hope and devotion as we prepare for the Navratri Devi Pooja and fundraising activities.

As a united community, we aspire to create a spiritual home that will stand the test of time.

Join us in celebrating the Goddess and building a brighter future. Let the spirit of Navratri guide us as we embark on this divine journey.

For media inquiries, please contact: Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Association Email: gchcan@gmail.com

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023 — 33

Queensland Sangeet Mela Association hosted an Evening of Hindustani Classical Music SUNNYBANK, On Saturday 16th September QSMA hosted an Evening of Hindustani Classical music featuring Australia’s leading Bansuri (Flute) Artist, Vinod Prasanna.

Smt. Shrabani Choudhury started the evening on Sitar by acquainting the audience with Raagini Raageshri (Raageshwari) via an Alaap that, true to her Vishnupur gharana heritage, smoothly melded gaayaki and tantarkaari elements.

Shri Pankaj Navlekar joined in on the Tabla as Smt. Choudhury started a Madhya laya Rupak (medium tempo seven beats) composition.

The Sitar and Tabla portion of the program finished with a drut Teentala (fast tempo 16 beats) composition that rather unusually but cleverly had the mukhada starting on the 3rd beat. Shrabaniji very diligently brought the sweet and romantic nature of Raageshri to the fore which is only possible by an experienced and disciplined

musician.

Pankaj Ji demonstrated his prowess in Sangat baaj. This skill distinguishes a refined tabla player from the average punter by supporting and complementing the underlying rhythmic feel of the melodic movements improvised by Shrabaniji.

Following the complimentary chai and samosas (courtesy Brisbane Indian Times) during the interval, Shri Vinod Prasanna shared his

vision of Raaga Kirwani through an Alaap, and then he contextualised the Raaga’s melodic progressions to rhythm via Jod and Jhaala. Shri Shen Flindell accompanied on Tabla as Vinodji ventured into a Madhya laya Rupak (medium tempo seven beats) composition that also was unique with its mukhda starting on the second beat of the taala, a pleasure for the taala fiends. The duo then moved

The Kashmir Files OPINION Piece by Peter Lane Rai

The Kashmir Files, a 2022 Indian Hindi-language drama film written and directed by Vivek Agnihotri about the 1990 exodus of Kashmiri Hindus from the Indian-administered Kashmir, featured on ABC TV Foreign correspondent at 8 pm Thursday 10th August.

It presents the exodus and the events leading up to it as a genocide by Muslim extremists, which scholars consider inaccurate.

However, while the filmmakers claim that a conspiracy of silence suppressed such facts, the present Indian BJP Government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi supported the film.

(I have not seen the film, so I cannot comment on its accuracy.)

The ongoing tragedy and conflict of deciding who owns Kashmir is not an isolated problem; over centuries around the world, there has been, and still is,

religious violence and ethnic clashes over land ownership.

Sometimes, this has led to wars.

Recently, NE India erupted over clashes between rival ethnic groups; people were killed, and property was destroyed.

Then, on Sunday, August 27th, I attended a Church meeting in Brisbane where the speaker was an Indian man called Israel from Chennai who had just been to NE India to encourage local Christians who had lost property and even loved ones in the recent violent visit.

Israel said, “We came to bring shalom to the people and pray for peace in the region.”

It is the same today in the modern-day nation of Israel, Jews and Palestinians conflict over rightful ownership of the land of Israel.

Sadly, we in Brisbane probably face similar conflicts and disagreements

34 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023

in our homes, families, marriages, neighbourhoods, and workplaces. So, the challenging question is: How do we resolve such problems?

Fortunately, different religions teach similar things. *God is love, and in Love, He made people. Therefore, we should, like God, love one another.

God is peace – consequently, we should seek to bring peace where problems exist.

God forgives us if we admit our mistakes to Him. Therefore, we should forgive people who offend us. And seek our forgiveness.

If we can do these things, it will make our world a better place. Countries and groups of people have gone to war over who is the rightful owner of land or others, which has been duplicated worldwide countless times over the centuries in the form of religious violence and ethnic clashes.

to Teentala compositions in the same raga, initially in madhyalaya (medium tempo) and culminating into a drut (fast tempo) presentation. Vinodji also presented, with support from Shenji, a beautiful folk song from Bihar set to Deepchandi (14 beats) taal, a Dhun that started in Dadra (6 beats) and finished in aneight-beatt laggi, and a Bhajan in Bhajani (8 beats) taal. The program concluded with two compositions in the

evergreen Bhairavi Raaga.

Whether it was their musical sawaal-jawaabs, supporting the other artists to develop their ideas, or simply ideas in the moment, the mutual respect between Vinodji and Shenji and their joy in presenting their music was evident. This created an engaging atmosphere that was thoroughly enjoyed by the audience, as shown by the numerous praises and enthusiastic applauses heard throughout the

concert.

Shenji brought his solid grounding in laya and expertise in classical tabla accompaniment, allowing Vinodji to improvise and express his ideas freely and ensuring a natural feel to the concert. His dedication to precise tonality expands the sound canvas of performance, and a great example of that was his bayan work while playing Teentala, where a glided link between the subsequent bols was maintained at all the tempos during the performance.

Vinodji’s mastery over the instrument is why he is often referred to as the foremost bansuri player in Australia and a worthy heir to the Prassana family’s musical legacy. In addition, enough cannot be said about Vinodji’s expertise in the subject matter, whether it be Raaga, Tala, Layakari, or aesthetics. However, the standouts from the program were his ability to engage the audience and the clever use of silence.

Natu Natu Gala Night was a great success WILLAWONG, On Saturday, 16th September, the Rotary Club of Brisbane International held their Natu Natu Gala night. The fun-filled event was held at Unidus Community Centre in Willawong.

President Neelam Naidu reported that the event was a great success, and all proceeds will go to humanitarian projects; she thanked Brisbane Indian Times and Australian Indian Radio for being media partners.

She further thanked the community for their continued support of the club and the massive support for this fundraiser.

The Rotary Club of Brisbane International is well known for hosting quality events.

“AFTER A SUCCESSFUL BEAUTY PAGEANT, THE BRISBANE MODEL CHOOSES TO EMPOWER ALL WOMEN ACROSS THE WORLD”

In the world of beauty pageant and fashion, Tazz, a mesmerising beauty, model, actress & an entrepreneur, came up with the idea of bringing all women across Australia together with promoting women empowerment and diversity.

Tazz created this incredible platform for Miss/Mrs Femina Beauty Australia 2023, where she wanted to showcase every woman's beauty, talent, and confidence. “Femina” means women.

Miss /Mrs Femina Beauty AU 2023 was a 2 Day event held on 30 Sept & 1 Oct 2023 at a 5-star NYC vibe, Performance Studio, Club Noir, Loganholme, Brisbane.

“This évent was sponsored

by Hyatt Regency Brisbane, Complete Skin Clinic Keperra, Horizon Cosmetics, Simply Desserts, Bohemian Rhapsody Weekly Magazine, The Bolton Group, Mykish Travels, Doriya Couture, Jen’s Lashes, Laila’s Beauty & Laser, Derma Glam, Celebrity Makeover.

There were 19 beautiful contestants from all across Australia. This two-day event

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was full of fun, entertainment, socialisation, and intensive model workshops & coaching.

All contestants showcased their beauty, immense talent, incredible determination & hard work.

Tazz has won many beauty pageants, nationally and internationally. She is a title holder for Miss India AU International, Miss Wow London, Miss India Global, and Miss Glamorous NZ. Having so many crowns, Tazz believes in helping other women achieve their dreams & passion.

Tazz has appeared in many magazines and media. She is an internationally published model.

Tazz believes her platform has opened opportunities for many Mrs who thought they could not participate in beauty pageants due to age, marital status, or body shape.

Tazz has proven this wrong and has given a chance to all women & all ethnicities.

Tazz believes every woman is beautiful; therefore, they must showcase what they have.

Tazz has inspired &

continues to inspire many women from all across Australia and Internationally.

She has been commended on her successful event and has already started getting applications for next year.

The finale was a whole house event. All contestants were judged on four rounds, including National Wear, Fashion Wear, Fitness, and evening Gown, followed by Q&A. Seven judges and scores were given to each contestant for each round on their confidence, poise, grace, etc. There was unlimited entertainment for the audience, including Belly Dancing, Singing, etc.

Tazz is very proud of the overwhelming success of this event, as this was her first event in Brisbane as an organiser. She hopes to continue this event annually and on an international platform to empower more women worldwide.

There were eight crowns to be won.

The Empowerment & Leadership crown was awarded to Diane Shield from Bundaberg QLD. The face of Femina was awarded to Isha Kapania from Perth, WA Winner Miss Femina Beauty AU 2023- Alisha Mathew from Sydney Winner -Mrs Neha Sharma from Melbourne 1st Runner Up Miss Vanshika Puri - Melbourne 1st Runner Up Mrs Khaisha Sethi -Melbourne 2nd Runner Up -Miss Sakshi Garg -Adélaïde

2nd Runner Up -Mrs Irin Sultana -Melbourne There were other subcategory winners, including Best Talent, Best Photogenic, Best Congeniality, etc.

Tazz has a heart of gold and is an avid animal lover.

She has supported many non-profit organisations and continues to support them. She hopes to build an animal shelter and orphanage for children shortly.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023 — 35

Basava Samiti’s Learn2Grow Program SharaNu SharaNarthi.

Basava Samiti is an international charity with online operations in Australia and New Zealand entirely operated by volunteers. Our charity spans over 6,000 in geography, and we have highly skilled volunteers willing to train and empower other volunteers. Our motto is Engage, Educate, Empower and Enlighten.

Our objective is to provide a conducive environment for all volunteers so they reach higher goals. We conduct several volunteer programs to the STEM objectives of the Government. Services to the charity are primarily online and task bound.

Lipin Guo, BSAPAC AI Specialist, says, “At Basava Samiti, where we cherish cultural diversity.

I've utilised translation APIs to bridge language gaps between Kannada, English, and Chinese. At Basava Samiti, personal growth is encouraged. My dream is to become an AI engineer, and I'm grateful to Basava Samiti for allowing me to embrace AI in charity work empowering me towards a brighter future.

The Learn2Grow program has been instrumental in honing my skills, offering training in technology and graphic design using Microsoft and Canva tools. It caters to those eager to learn but lack financial means, providing a sandpit area to develop innovative ideas. Through this charity, I've experienced a sense of belonging and purpose, knowing that my efforts contribute to the betterment of our community.

With the support and mentorship at Basava Samiti, I feel confident in pursuing my passion for AI, optimistic that together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. As we embrace diversity, foster personal growth, and uphold our values, we work hand in hand to build a more inclusive and compassionate world.”

Since the introduction of this program nearly 18 months ago, the program has become very popular and accessible to many across Australia, New Zealand and India. It has recognised several individuals for their dedication unparalleled and unwavering service to the community.

Our Charity operates on a hi-tech Microsoft platform.

We are also thankful for Google and Graphics Designer Professional platforms, all working in an integrated manner and administering award-winning professional ICT teams.

Basava Samiti congratulates and offers immense gratitude to all the hard-working volunteers who make their talent easily accessible to others and gently uplifts them to impart the values of the Guru Basava philosophy. At the same time, they learn the skills and techniques necessary to make a livelihood step up for their rights and integrity by applying the values impartially.

Some of the values highlighted through this Learn2Grow Program are mentioned below: Dāsōha (ದಾಸ�ೋ�ಹಾ) is a concept introduced by Guru Basava, wherein the person offers service to humanity in such a way that the receiver of the service is regarded as higher than the giver. This concept is anti-egoistic by virtue.

Sharanas (Sarana) adopt

and promote the Guru Basava philosophy and values ‘who walk the talk’ and promote their ideologies through actions and purify themselves by serving the society through Dāsōha.

Kāyakavē

kailāsa

(ಕಾಯಕವ�ೇ ಕ�ೈಲಾಸ) – the concept of experiencing heaven through the adoption of Dāsōha to the society and its surrounding environment.

Successful aspirants of this Learn2Grow program get nominated to attend the Microsoft Reactor social impact event.

The first Learn2Grow student has completed the Microsoft certification and, therefore, has been appointed by Basava Samiti for a day workshop at Microsoft Towers in Sydney.

Everyone gets to become a Super Star at Basava Samiti!!

You could be NEXT! Don't miss out on such exciting services from Basava Samiti. Built on the Kaayakave Kailasa principle, we strive always to help you be evergreen with market trends and Guru Basava Values.!

Find out more by visiting https://basavasamitiapac. org/.

Bhartiya Samaj's Empowering Migrants workshop to ease migrant's settlement journey in Australia More than 80 people attended a workshop titled “Empowering Migrants” on Saturday, organised by Brisbane-based charity Bhartiya Samaj at Upper Mt Gravatt Progress Hall in Brisbane, Queensland.

The workshop aimed to lay the foundation of sessions providing new migrants with accurate information and knowledge as they start their settlement journey in Australia.

Keynote speakers include Queensland and Northern Territory’s Regional Director Charlie Shandil, Multicultural Australia CEO Christine Castley, Doboy Ward Councillor Cr Lisa Atwood, Multicultural Affairs Queensland’s Strategic Settlement Partnerships Manager Melissa Pignolet, South Brisbane’s Acting Inspector Dallas Kowald, Meditation Guru Chintan Gandhi aka Sanatana Goswami Das, Braid Salon - CEO & Entrepreneur and Media & Digital Adviser for MP Ross Vasta’s office Dr Cycy Ireland, Education Consultant Mithun Patel and Director & Finance Manager George Massa addressed the workshop.

The dignitaries and speakers recounted their experiences during their settlement journey in Australia and enlightened the attendees on how the Empowering Migrants workshop would make them "Australia-ready."

Queensland and Northern Territory’s Regional Director Charlie Shandil recounted the

story of his great grandfather who came to Australia to become “more than a farmer”.

“Settlement in this country, in particular, profoundly impacts individuals, children and future generations in your family.

“One thing that I have learnt from my family’s story is how important it is to be active and involved in the country that you live in.

Whether you are a citizen or PR, you must play your role in this community.”

Multicultural Australia CEO Christine Castley said they [Multicultural Australia] would like to engage more with community groups to understand what people need information about and how [it is] to be shared from government and businesses to the people.

“In the current environment, we have a lot of challenges around housing, where people have issues around the kind of house they can access, particularly for people newly arrived at basic pay. What you can

36 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023

access regarding rent is very limited, so how people give us feedback is how we rate ourselves.”

Bhartiya Samaj Brisbane’s president, Abhishek Sharma, said finding the correct information was challenging when he moved to Australia.

“I struggled to find authentic information on various issues. For instance, in which location to rent or buy a house, in which school we should get our kids enrolled in, what banks to use, information about the loading fee on the health insurance cover, how to sponsor my dad, who currently lives in India or be it something as simple as applying for a driver’s license, or even finding the proper electricity, gas, phone or internet provider.

“Those struggles led to the idea of organising Empowering Migrants. The key purpose is to provide accurate information with the help of subject-matter experts and raise awareness about the way of life in Australia.”

Bhartiya Samaj Brisbane’s

Vice President Kriti Bhardwaj said the organisation’s vision is to support diverse communities in Australia, and its goal is to make a positive difference in people's lives.

“Empowering Migrants is the right step in this direction.

It will empower migrants with the right information, knowledge and inspiration, easing their journey of settlement, success and growth in Australia.”

Migrants play a crucial role in the economic and social fabric of Australia. Australia is growing by 1 million people every two years, making it among the fastest-developing countries in the OECD. Launched in November 2022, Bhartiya Samaj in Brisbane acknowledges the Jagera people and the Turrbal people as the Traditional Custodians of Meanjin (Brisbane), the lands on which our venue is located. We pay our respects to Jagera and Turrbal Elders past, present and emerging.

About Bhartiya Samaj

Charitable Trust Bhartiya Samaj Charitable Trust is a not-for-profit organisation serving the community in Auckland since 1995. Mr. Jeet Suchdev QSM JP, Ms. Roopa Suchdev QSM, and other like-minded people founded it.

The trust works responsibly to ensure community people benefit by fostering healthy relations and catering to their social, cultural, and emotional needs. The trust serves people from diverse backgrounds, ages, regions, and social statuses.

Our mission is to help and support the community to empower them to become strong and confident. We also support the people who have newly migrated to New Zealand through various community development and awareness activities. We carry out activities/programs and events to empower the community and bring them out of isolation. Our services involve multiple activities, workshops, and awareness programs aligned with the specific needs of the Senior Citizens Wing, Children, and Youth Wing, New Migrants Support Wing, and Social Services Wing. Our main objective is to provide a platform for the community's people to feel socially connected, supported, and less isolated.

About Bhartiya Samaj Brisbane Bhartiya Samaj supports bringing “Positive Change” into the lives of Australia’s diverse South Asian communities to empower

them to become firm, confident and in control of their lives. We are dedicated to enriching lives and increasing people’s choices and possibilities for realising their potential.

Now, the Brisbane chapter has been launched to continue delivering the core values of Bhartiya Samaj (Auckland), which embraces empowering people with knowledge, building solid identities and connecting with diverse communities whilst excelling in our service to the community in Brisbane, Queensland.

Three key things that the Bhartiya Samaj Brisbane chapter will focus on over the next few months are as follows: a.

Helping migrants to settle in Brisbane by information dissemination b. Building more inclusive communities c. Collaborating with other community organisations to conduct a joint venture/event.

We are a secular, multicultural and passiondriven organisation with a genuine desire to positively impact the community and people’s lives with our strong determination and commitment if you are up for the challenge or keen to know more.

Please feel free to get in touch or join us today!

For more information, contact Bhartiya Samaj Brisbane’s President Abhishek Sharma or Vice President Kriti Bhardwaj: Email: BSBrisbane@ outlook.com

Dance Pe Chance Garba Night by Chinmaya Mission Brisbane

COORPAROO, On Sunday 1st October Chinmaya Mission Brisbane, hosted a sold-out garba night at Coorparoo Secondary School.

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

Chinmaya Mission Brisbane started in 2008 and has now expanded to three locations in Brisbane providing Balavihar classes (children aged 4-11), Junior Chinmaya Yuvakendra (CHYKs-high school children), CHYKs (young adults) and adult classes.

Recently we have purchased

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land to commence building our very own cultural centre for the wellbeing of the community.

To fundraise for their new cultural centre, the Brisbane CHYKs organised their second garba nightthemed “Dance Pe Chance” Garba night was a night filled with food for the soul, drove you to dance and is sure to create memories

that will last a lifetime. They had henna stalls, photo booths, delicious food, and Garba tutorials to get you on the dance floor the right way.

Sangeeta Kutty said on Facebook “A houseful event! What a rocking garba night that was exclusively organised by our Chinmaya mission Brisbane Yuva Kendra members and Junior

Yuva Kendra members as a fundraising event for our upcoming ashram! Loved these youth and enjoyed every part of the event from planning to execution which left us in awe . Be it getting ready almost 3 hours before the event or cleaning up the hall - these youths did everything with the attitude Seva ever prepared to serve and support others!

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I loved how they even helped and supported even first-time garba dancers to get into the dance mode A huge thanks to Hertisha Govender, Simran Priya Shah and Prajna Vidyasagar for leading this event, Sharujan Mahendraraj and his Brisraga Band for the live and upbeat songs, fantastic sponsors and to our fabulous sponsor Brisbane Indian

Times Umesh Chandra ji, Usha Chandra ji and Dilraj for their outstanding promotion which helped us to reach a sold out!

It’s a joy to see that these wonderful youths gave their time and effort happily to serve a great purpose ” Happiness depends on what you can give, not what you can get.

—Swami Chinmayananda

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023 — 37

Don't want to get into hypotheticals: US on India asking Canada to reduce diplomats US said it wants to leave the diplomatic crisis to India and Canada to handle and reiterated that the allegations against India are serious.

As India gave a deadline to Canada to withdraw its diplomats from the country and Canadian PM Justin Trudeau, in reply, said that the Canadian government wants to help Canadians in India on the ground, the United States said it is aware of the ongoing standoff over diplomatic staff levels but refused to get into the issue.

US State Department's deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel said he came across reports on the diplomatic staffing levels for the Canadian High Commission in New Delhi.

“But I don't have anything further to offer on those reports and certainly don't

want to get into hypotheticals and take this process one step at a time. As it relates to our Indo-Pacific strategy and the focus that we continue to place on the region, that effort and that line of work is going to continue,” he said.

US has clarified its stance on the India-Canada diplomatic crisis stemmed from Trudeau's allegations that India got Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar killed in Canada. Before external affairs minister S Jaishankar met US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington, the US said it favoured an investigation into the allegations levelled

by Canada and wanted India to cooperate in that. India reiterated that the allegations are baseless and Canada did not provide any specific

information in connection to this. Canada, however, said it shared information with India many weeks ago.

The India-Canada diplomatic crisis puts the US in an awkward position for its interest in both countries.

'Leave it to those two countries to talk...'

John Kirby, Coordinator for Strategic Communications at the National Security

Council in the White House, said on Tuesday the issue was discussed between Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan. "We will certainly leave it to those two countries to talk about their bilateral relationship,” Kirby said.

“We have been clear, these allegations are serious, they need to be fully investigated and of course, as we have

said before, we urge India to participate actively in that investigation,” Kirby said.

India-Canada diplomatic crisis: Latest developments At the onset of the crisis, the external affairs ministry said at present Canada has more diplomats present in India than India has in Canada. The ministry alleged interference by Canadian diplomats in India's internal affairs. On that front, it came to the fore on Tuesday that India asked Canada to remove 41 of its 62 diplomats

by October 10.

Trudeau said his government wants to be on the ground in India to help Canadian families. He reiterated that Canada is not looking to provoke India.

Canada foreign minister Melanie Joly said Canada

is in “constant cooperation and dialogue with India” regarding the requested withdrawal of diplomats.

“In moments of tensions — because indeed there are tensions between both our governments — more than ever it’s important that diplomats be on the ground and that’s why we believe in the importance of having a strong diplomatic footprint in India,” she said. “That being said, we are in ongoing conversations with the Indian government and we will continue to protect Canada," she said emphasising that Canada wants private talks with India.

India has already banned visa services in Canada and accused Canada of harbouring terrorists despite being alerted several times.

TMC lawmakers, who have been Will take views of all parties on caste The stationed since Monday in the national capital, had scheduled a meeting with survey data, says Nitish Kumar Jyoti at the Krishi Bhavan on Tuesday

The meeting attended by 9 parties came a day after the results of the survey showed that OBCs comprise nearly 2/3 of Bihar’s population.

Data collected in Bihar’s landmark caste survey will help the state government work for the upliftment of all sections, chief minister Nitish Kumar told an allparty meeting on Tuesday, even as members of the state’s ruling coalition pushed for higher reservations to socially and economically backward communities and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) flagged flaws with the exercise.

The meeting -- attended by nine parties -- came a day after the results of the survey that enumerated 130 million people showed that backward communities comprise nearly two-thirds of Bihar’s population.

Opposition parties hope to use the survey results to reverse the BJP’s inroads among marginalised castes.

A government statement said Kumar told the meeting that the survey was carried in a proper manner with the educational and economic data of households. “We will take the opinion of all parties to work in the interest of the state‘s population based on the caste survey report.

Our objective is to uplift the deprived sections and we

will do it with consensus of all,” he said, according to the statement.

“The idea is to bring the most deprived sections into the mainstream. We suggested that caste data having socioeconomic profile of various castes is a tool to uplift the deprived sections through reservations and also tailoring schemes which could uplift economic condition of poorer sections,” said Sarvajeet Kumar, agriculture minister and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader, who attended the meeting.

He said that increasing reservation for giving representation to people as per their numerical strength can be looked at as a plausible policy decision to uplift those classes who were deprived both economically and socially. “The data has given

information about which classes of people have land or no land or are educationally or economically weaker.

Policy decisions need to be taken and reservation could be one,” he said.

Left parties broached the idea of increasing the reservation for those belonging to backward and economically poorer sections.

“There should be reservations based on the numerical strength of populations of various caste groups,” said Mehboob Alam of the Communist Party of India Marxist Leninist (Liberation).

Finance minister Vijay Choudhary said the allparty meeting was called to apprise the parties about the government’s fulfillment of its commitment to carry the caste survey. He said the government would first invite suggestions from parties on

Three-storey building collapses in MP's Satna; 2 rescued A three-storey building collapsed in the Satna town of Madhya Pradesh on the intervening night of Tuesday. The collapse occurred during ongoing renovation work, leaving an unknown number of individuals trapped inside the debris.

Read on: https://indiantimes.com.au/ 38 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023

various aspects of the caste survey and then act on it.

Bihar currently has 50% reservation for backward, extremely backward, scheduled caste and tribe, and women from backward classes in jobs and seats in educational institutions.

The BJP was not satisfied.

There were several lapses in the survey report and it was done in haste, Vijay Kumar Sinha, Leader of the Opposition in the assembly, told reporters after the meeting held at the chief minister’s secretariat. He raised the matter in the meeting, saying he had not been covered under the household caste survey as no enumerator came to his house.

Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) supremo and former chief minister Jitan Ram Manjhi expressed concern over the decline in the population of Manjhis, his caste group and one of the scheduled castes. There could be some anomaly in the survey as the real population of Manjhis was much higher than what was reflected in the report, accounting for only 3.08%, he said.

Congress leader Shakeel Ahmed Khan said he suggested addressing economic disparity though various state interventions based on the report.

Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Mahua Moitra on Tuesday dubbed Minister of State for Rural Development Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti as 'liar' after the latter claimed that she waited for the protesting MPs in her office for over two hours.

The TMC lawmakers, who have been stationed since Monday in the national capital, had scheduled a meeting with Jyoti at the Krishi Bhavan on Tuesday at 6pm, regarding their demand of release of funds under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).

However the minister claimed that the protesting MPs didn't come to meet her and wasted her around 2.5 hours. "Today 02:30 hours was wasted. I left the office at 08:30 while waiting for the Trinamool MPs," the union minister wrote on.

Further, TMC general secretary Abhishek Banerjee also claimed that Jyoti did not meet them even after giving them an appointment.

"We were scheduled to meet union minister Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti at 6pm today, we waited for 90 minutes, after which we were informed that she will not be able to meet us. Sadhvi Niranjan met Suvendu Adhikari today at 4 pm but we were made to wait here. If she doesn't want to meet us, then it's okay, but

we will not go anywhere from here, we will remain sitting here," Banerjee had said.

“40 people walked from Jantar Mantar to Krishi Bhawan. The minister did not meet us even after hours.

Mahua Moitra and Derek O'Brien took the initiative to have a meeting with the minister. But we were told that the minister would only meet the leaders and not the victims but he left from the back door. Those who were fighting for the people of Bengal were made to wait for 3 hours, " Banerjee further added.

The Delhi Police had detained around 30 leaders of the TMC on Tuesday during their protest against the Centre for withholding Rs.15,000 crore in dues to the state under the MGNREGA. The delegation, led by Abhishek Banerjee, along with party lawmakers held a two-hour dharna at the Rajghat on Monday before being evicted by the police.

On Tuesday, they staged a protest at Jantar Mantar and later took out a march to the Rural Development Ministry at the Krishi Bhawan, where they had an appointment with Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti.

However, they were detained by the police and evicted from the ministry premises.

The party leaders were released from detention around midnight.

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www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023 — 39

FOCUS ON FIJI

New Zealand starts new tourism campaign as post-COVID visits lag WELLINGTON (Reuters) – New Zealand is launching a new tourism campaign with Kiwi director and actor Taika Waititi to attract visitors after the sector was hammered by COVID-19 and border closures.

Tourism New Zealand on Wednesday will premiere a 3-1/2 minute promotional film featuring the Oscar winner and Jade Daniels, his stunt double in the HBO romantic comedy series “Our Flag Means Death” which is filmed in New Zealand.

Visitors from United States are a major target audience, said Rene de Monchy, chief executive for Tourism New Zealand.

The film, shot in December 2022, will also play on social media platforms in Australia, Germany, the UK and parts of Asia.

“Competition is heating up and economic times are a bit tough in many parts of the world so we’ve got to keep being innovative and top of mind for people.”

Prior to COVID and the closure of New Zealand’s

borders, international tourism was New Zealand’s largest source of foreign exchange and accounted for about 5.5% of gross domestic product.

Tourists are returning but overseas visitors in July were still 16% lower than in July 2019.

The film, which cost NZ$689,000($409,890) to make, highlights activities like dolphin watching in Kaikoura on the South Island’s east coast and wine tasting in the country’s largest city Auckland.

engulfs police Ro Teimumu: Ratu David’s passing a Fire facility in Egypt’s tragic loss to family; great loss to Fiji Ismailia, 25 hurt The head of the Burebasaga confederacy, Marama na Roko Tui Dreketi Ro Teimumu Kepa, has lamented the passing of acting Director of Public Prosecutions Ratu DavidGeorge Toganivalu.

In a condolence message to Ratu David’s mother Adi Davila Toganivalu – posted on her social media Facebook account from Jerusalem, Ro Teimumu said his passing was a tragic loss to his mother, siblings, relatives and friends, and a great loss to the country.

“David Toganivalu had shown great promise, and we all looked forward to his being confirmed in the position of Director of Public Prosecutions where we could just turn up and ask for free advice. Such

was the nature of the man!

Tragically this was not to be. If we didn’t know better, we would be asking

all sorts of questions,” Ro Teimumu said.

“But it is the Lord who giveth and it is the Lord

who taketh; And blessed be the name of the Lord.

“All we can do whilst mourning David George’s passing is to thank the Lord for his life and pray for the repose of his soul. And to pray for his loving family that they also find peace in their heart, comforted by the fact that we shall all meet again in the heavenly Jerusalem.”

Ratu David-George, 49, died at his Taro home in Bau, Tailevu on Monday, October 2.

He is survived by his wife Losalini Leweniqila Toganivalu and five children – Maraia[1]Esther, David-Edward, Viliame, Josua and Liliwaimanu; his mother Adi Asilina Davila Toganivalu and three sisters – Angela, Tuipolotu and Diana.

South Pacific a region in recovery; challenges not ‘insurmountable’ The South Pacific region is one in recovery in the wake of a global pandemic.

It continues to grapple with the impact of the Ukraine-Russia war – a conflict with no visible end in sight – and with repercussions across the world, including through higher food and energy prices.

At present, the region continues to contend with a climate emergency that has taken its toll on all sectors of our economies.

These were the remarks of Pacific Islands Forum Deputy Secretary General Esala Nayasi when he addressed delegates at the ACP Trade Officials meeting in Suva yesterday, and he empowered them that while the challenges

were wide-ranging and complex, “they are not insurmountable”.

“What it will require of

40 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023

us is stronger coordination and coherence so that we can effectively capitalise on opportunities for

economies of scale and develop regional value chains, where possible, so that we strengthen our

CAIRO (Reuters) -A huge fire erupted at a police facility in the Egyptian Suez Canal city of Ismailia early on Monday, injuring at least 25 people before firefighters contained the blaze after several hours, emergency services and media reported.

Videos posted on social media showed the city’s security directorate engulfed in flames. The cause of the blaze was not immediately known.

Two witnesses told Reuters that firefighters initially appeared to struggle to tackle the blaze.

More than three hours later, state television said it had been contained.

At least 25 people were injured in a preliminary count of casualties, the Egyptian Ambulance Authority said.

Civil defence sources said parts of the building had collapsed in the fire.

Interior Minister Mahmoud Tawfik said a committee of advisers would be formed to look into the causes of the fire and review the construction safety of the building “to restore its efficiency as soon as possible”, according to his ministry.

The Ismailia incident was the latest major fire to hit Egypt. A church blaze killed at least 41 people in August 2022.

export base towards higher value-added products from the region,” Mr Nayasi said.

He says the very foundation of the Pacific Islands Forum is economic cooperation, which its founding fathers had recognised.

“Fundamental to this very principle is our ability to trade – amongst ourselves and with external partners,” Mr Nayasi said.

“To unlock the potential of trade and development, we need to address supply side constraints, reduce trade facilitation bottlenecks and building efficient and resilient

supply chains.

“In an increasingly interconnected world, our unilateral success as individual nations is no longer viable.

“We must build on each other’s strengths to create trade and economic opportunities and open new and unexplored trading markets.”

Mr Nayasi said the ACP Trade Officials meeting was a unique forum – “as Pacific ACP countries, you have the flexibility and the opportunity to discuss frankly and openly your collective ambitions as island countries”.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023 — 41

Boney Kapoor SPEAKS OUT about Maidaan being delayed multiple times: “First time in my life, I feel the situation is not in my control”

Film producer Boney Kapoor has opened up about the challenges he faced in producing his upcoming sports drama Maidaan, which has been delayed for several years. In an interview with The New Indian, Kapoor said that the pandemic, unpredictable weather, and other unforeseen circumstances caused major delays and cost overruns in the Ajay Devgn-starrer.

Kapoor also revealed that he has not received a satisfactory amount of insurance money to cover the losses incurred due to the delays. "Besides Maidaan, there's not a single penny I owe anyone," he asserted.

"I never get demoralised. I catch the bull by the horns, and I sleep peacefully. But I’ve been having sleepless nights recently because of Maidaan. But for the first time in my life, I feel the situation is not in my control."

Kapoor said that he had to lease a 16-acre piece of land for more than three years to build a football pitch for the film, which added

to the budget significantly.

He explained, “That set was there for more than three years, and that’s what escalated the budget of the film. We haven’t overshot, but we had to pay rent for the ground, we had to remunerate the curators, and we had to maintain the ground… We had a crew of almost 500-600 people every day. We had Taj catering the food. We had two or three ambulances on set.”

Kapoor continued "All these calamities and the pandemic created a major, major (problem)," Kapoor said. "And unfortunately, insurance is not there… As of now, we've got nothing.

What they've offered is a measly amount of what I've spent."

Maidaan, which stars Ajay Devgn and is directed by Amit Ravindernath Sharma, tells the story of the "golden age of Indian football." The film was originally scheduled to be released alongside RRR last year but has been delayed multiple times. It is currently unclear when it will release.

Jio Studios and Reliance Entertainment join forces for web series Paan Parda Zarda

Jio Studios and Reliance Entertainment collaborate for new web series Paan Parda Zarda on illegal opium smuggling in Central India.

Jio Studios unites exceptional creative minds with the launch of their gangster drama Paan Parda Zarda that went on floor on September 27.

Conceptualized and produced in association with Reliance Entertainment and Dreamer and Doers Co, the web series will see

a powerhouse of creative forces coming together including ace directors Gurmmeet Singh (Mirzapur and Inside Edge) & Shilpi Dasgupta along with Mrighdeep Singh Lamba (Fukrey franchise), Suparn S Varma (Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hain, Family Man and Rana Naidu) and talented writer duo Hussain Dalal & Abbas Dalal (Bambai Meri Jaan, Farzi, Brahmastra), Radhika Anand & Vibha Singh.

42 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023

SCOOP: Parineeti Chopra has a 10-minute extended special appearance in Akshay Kumar-starrer Mission Raniganj Parineeti Chopra has been in the news after she got married to politician Raghav Chadha in Udaipur on September 24. It was in the beginning of 2023 when both were spotted together at a restaurant in Mumbai that reports came in that they were seeing each other.

Soon, they announced their engagement followed by their wedding. Their wedding pictures and videos became a huge talking point on social media. Less than two weeks after tying the knot, Parineeti Chopra will have a theatrical release, Mission Raniganj. It reunites her with her Kesari (2019) co-star Akshay Kumar.

Bollywood Hungama has learned that the actress has an extended special appearance in the film.

A source told Bollywood

Hungama, “The film is about a group of miners stuck in a mine. Time is running out and they need to be rescued before they perish. In such a scenario, the makers had to focus on the principal track to keep the interest and tension levels high. Hence,

there’s very little focus on Parineeti Chopra’s track.

Her screen time is around 10 minutes.”

The source, however, maintained, “But hers is a crucial character. And the makers were keen to have a strong performer like

Parineeti Chopra for the part. She also understood the importance of her character and willingly came on board.”

An industry insider made an interesting observation, “Before Mission Raniganj, Akshay Kumar and Parineeti Chopra worked together on Kesari. In both films, Akshay played a sardar and in both movies, Parineeti’s role was akin to that of a cameo.”

Mission Raniganj is directed by Tinu Suresh Desai of Rustom (2016) fame. It is inspired by a real-life incident involving the late mining engineer Jaswant Singh Gill and how he rescued 65 miners trapped in a coal mine in West Bengal’s Raniganj in November 1989. It releases on October 6.

20 Years of Baghban EXCLUSIVE: “After its release, suddenly there was a spike in senior citizens taking insurance for themselves and not for their children” – Samir Soni Read more: https://indiantimes.com.au/

Ananya Panday becomes brand ambassador for international luxury brand, Jimmy Choo; says, “It’s a dream come true” Bollywood actress Ananya Panday has achieved a remarkable milestone in her career by becoming the brand ambassador for the prestigious luxury brand, Jimmy Choo. At the age of 24, she has made history as the youngest Indian actor to represent this renowned international brand.

Jimmy Choo, a synonym for opulence and sophistication, is delighted to welcome Ananya Panday as part of its brand family. Recognized for her impeccable fashion sense and increasing influence in the realms of fashion and entertainment, Ananya embodies the values and principles that Jimmy Choo upholds.

Regarding this significant

collaboration, the Dream Girl actress expressed her excitement by stating, “I am truly honoured and thrilled to be a part of the Jimmy Choo family. It’s a dream come true to represent such an iconic luxury brand that

Release Date Movie Name Audience Score 13 OCT 2023 Guthlee Ladoo 34 13 OCT 2023 Darran Chhoo 0 13 OCT 2023 Bhagwan Bharose 0 13 OCT 2023 Hum Tumhein Chahte Hain 0 20 OCT 2023 Pyaar Hai Toh Hai 29 20 OCT 2023 Yaariyan 2 52

has set the standard for glamour and style. I can’t wait to embark on this exciting journey and create magic together.”

This partnership signifies a momentous occasion in both the fashion and

entertainment industries, as Ananya Panday joins the ranks of global icons who have previously represented Jimmy Choo, solidifying her status as a rising star with international appeal.

On the film front, Ananya Panday currently has Siddhant Chaturvedi, Adarsh Gourav starrer Kho Gaye Hum Kahan in the pipeline for release.

The actress has also been working on the cyber thriller directed by Vikramaditya Motwane. Apart from films, Ananya will be making her debut in web series with Call Me Bae that is slated to premiere on Amazon Prime Video. The show will feature her as a wealthy fashionista, who is disowned by her family after a major scandal.

Release Date Movie Name Audience Score 20 OCT 2023 Tiger Nageswara Rao 37 20 OCT 2023 Ganapath - A Hero Is Born 71 27 OCT 2023 Pyaari Tarawali The True Story 0 27 OCT 2023 12th Fail 72 27 OCT 2023 Mandali 34 31 OCT 2023 Salaar 66

Australia's Great Dancers with Celebrity Judge Geeta Kapur, presented

by Shaurya Entertainment Brisbane (22nd Sept) Melbourne – (24th Sept) – Shaurya Entertainment, Australia's premier entertainment company, hosted an unforgettable extravaganza, "Australia's Great Dancers," in both Brisbane and Melbourne.

This star-studded dance competition featured renowned celebrity judge Geeta Kapur, an artist, choreographer, and dance icon known for her incredible contributions to the world of dance.

The event brought together exceptional dance talents from across Melbourne and Brisbane, showcasing the diversity and creativity of the Australian dance scene. The performances were nothing short of spectacular, captivating the hearts of the audiences who filled the venues. The energy and enthusiasm in the room were palpable, making it a night to remember.

“We were amazed by the incredible talents that graced our stage in Melbourne and Brisbane,"

said Samika & Deepak Bhandari, spokespersons for Shaurya Entertainment.

The level of dedication and passion displayed by the participants was

truly commendable. Geeta Kapur's invaluable insights as a celebrity judge added

excitement and prestige to the event.

Shaurya Entertainment

extends its heartfelt congratulations to the talented runners-up and winners across all categories and age groups. Each participant's commitment and hard work were evident, and the results were a testament to their dedication to the art of dance.

The success of "Australia's Great Dancers" would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our participants and enthusiastic audiences. The Brisbane and Melbourne shows were completely sold out, reinforcing these cities' overwhelming love and appreciation for dance. “We would like to express our gratitude to all the participants, as well as the enthusiastic audiences who made this event a resounding success," said Samika. "Your support and enthusiasm are what make these events possible."

Shaurya Entertainment is already looking forward to the future with excitement and anticipation.

Simply Human Inc's Stem Cell Donor Drive Marks Remarkable Success with Multicultural Australia's Support Brisbane, 02 September 2023 — Simply Human Inc., a leading non-profit organisation committed to raising cancer awareness, is thrilled to announce the resounding success of its recent Stem Cell Donor Drive, held at Multicultural Australia on 02 September 2023.

The event was made possible through the generous sponsorship of the venue by Mr. Heath Goldfinch, COO of Multicultural Australia.

Simply Human Inc. extends its deepest gratitude to Multicultural Australia for its invaluable support, pivotal to the event's success. Their dedication to fostering unity and supporting noble initiatives within the community has contributed significantly to the positive outcome of our stem cell donor drive.

The Stem Cell Donor Drive exceeded all expectations, drawing a remarkable turnout of enthusiastic individuals, particularly the youth, who demonstrated an inspiring commitment to saving lives. Many young donors came forward to register, exemplifying our community's incredible potential for generosity and compassion.

Mr. Heath Goldfinch, COO of Multicultural Australia, provided the venue and Call: (07) 3192 5188

shared his inspiring vision for a more inclusive and compassionate society. His involvement exemplifies the power of collaboration and community engagement in making a tangible difference in the world.

Simply Human Inc. acknowledges and thanks its dedicated volunteers whose tireless efforts

and passion for the cause have been instrumental in creating awareness and inspiring action.

Their persistent commitment to raising awareness about the importance of stem cell donation has been a driving force behind our success.

We also want to thank Red Cross Australia (Jenelle and Rachel) for their continued collaboration

and support. Their expertise and resources were essential in facilitating a smooth and successful donor registration process.

The resounding success of Simply Human Inc.'s

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Stem Cell Donor Drive underscores the incredible impact that collective effort and community support can achieve. Together, we are fostering hope and making a positive difference in the

lives of those in need.

For more information about Simply Human Inc. and its ongoing initiatives, please follow them on Facebook & Instagram - @ SimplyHumanAustralia.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023 — 43

Liver cancer: The fastest growing cause of cancer-related deaths in Australia Every October is a time to raise awareness about liver cancer.

In Australia, liver cancer is the fastest growing cause of cancer-related deaths. In 2020, the incidence of all types of cancer in Australia ranked 7th in the world (The Global Cancer Research Fund. International). The incidence of liver cancer is higher in some countries in East Asia, Central Africa and West Africa.

The incidence rate of liver cancer in Vietnam in 2020 is 23 cases per 100,000 people, ranking 5th worldwide (World Cancer Research Fund International). Also in 2020, liver cancer is the type of cancer with the highest number of cases in Vietnam, accounting for 14.5% of total cancer cases (The Global Cancer Observatory).

Viral hepatitis, including chronic hepatitis B and C, is a leading risk factor for liver cancer in Australia. The Australian Cancer Society also warns about other risks of liver cancer including:

cirrhosis, see your doctor regularly to monitor your condition. Regular monitoring including blood tests and abdominal ultrasounds can help detect cancer early. This will help care and treatment be effective.

If you or a family member was previously informed that you were a "healthy carrier of hepatitis B", this term is no longer used. You and this loved one must see your doctor regularly to be monitored for hepatitis B. Failure to monitor the disease regularly will put you and this loved one at a higher risk of liver cancer.

To find out more

• Overweight or obese • Cirrhosis • Drink a lot of alcohol • Smoke • Fatty liver disease • Diabetes • Hereditary hemochromatosis (a genetic disease that causes iron accumulation in the body)

The risks of liver cancer can be reduced if you: • Get tested for hepatitis B and C • Get vaccinated against hepatitis B if you are not immune • Reduce or stop drinking alcohol

• Quit smoking • Exercise regularly and have a healthy, balanced diet • Consult your doctor before taking any dietary supplements, herbs or traditional medicine • If you have any existing liver problems, including chronic hepatitis B or C or

information and receive Vietnamese language assistance, please contact: Vietnamese phone: 0428 223 052 Vietnamese email: vietnamese@eccq.com.au Vietnamese website: www.eccq.com.au/bbvvietnamese Facebook: Vietnamese and Gan Abc *All your information is kept confidential* In Cairns, please contact: Faith Bassett Phone: 07 42264769 or mobile 0405123691 Email: faith.bassett@ health.qld.gov.au

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

How to Get Rid of Hyperpigmentation 7. Orange peel

Nimisha Modi

Hetvi Hair & Beauty 0412350013

Contd. from Sep. Month Hi Girls, spring is approaching and here are some tips which will benefit you. This is continuation of article from last month.

6. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera works excellently on hyperpigmented skin due to the presence of mucilaginous polysaccharides in the gel.

It can remove the dead skin cells and promote regeneration of new skin cells.

Before going to bed, apply some fresh aloe vera gel on the hyperpigmented skin and leave it on overnight. Rinse it off in the morning. Follow this remedy daily for a few weeks to get positive results.

Combine two tablespoons of aloe vera gel and one-half tablespoon of raw honey. Mix well and allow it to settle for 10 minutes. Now apply the mixture to the pigmentation and let it dry naturally. After 20 minutes, wash it off with lukewarm water. Follow this remedy once daily for at least two weeks and every other day thereafter until you get the desired results.

Next time you eat an orange, keep the peel. It contains citric acid that has bleaching properties and can help get rid of dark patches on skin. Add one teaspoon each of lemon juice, milk and honey to one tablespoon of dried orange peel powder.

Mix all the ingredients well to get a smooth consistency.

Apply the paste on the affected skin. Leave it on for about 20 minutes, and then massage gently. Finally wash it off with lukewarm water.

Follow this treatment at least three or four times a week to encourage cell renewal and reduce dark skin patches.

8. Avocados

Enriched with fatty acids, vitamin C and oleic acid, avocados can effectively help reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation. Plus, the various enzymes and high amount of vitamin E in avocados can also reduce pigmentation.

Mash one

44 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023

ripe avocado into a smooth paste. Apply the paste on the affected area. Leave it on for half an hour, and then wash it off with lukewarm water.

Follow this remedy twice daily for at least one month to get positive results. Alternatively, mash half of a ripe avocado into a smooth paste and mix in two teaspoons of honey and one teaspoon of milk. Apply the paste on the affected area.

Allow it to dry on its own and the rinse it off with lukewarm water. Do this once daily for a month.

9. Sandalwood Sandalwood is known to enhance skin complexion and it also works effectively for hyperpigmentation or other types of skin blemishes.

It is a stimulant, cooling agent and blood purifier. All these properties work together to reduce the appearance of dark patches and give your skin a natural, youthful tone. Mix two tablespoons of sandalwood powder with

enough rose water to form a thick paste. Apply this mask over the affected skin area.

Leave it on for half an hour, and then wash it off with lukewarm water. Follow this remedy twice daily for a few weeks to get positive results.

Alternatively, make a paste using two tablespoons of sandalwood powder, one tablespoon of turmeric powder and three to four tablespoons of milk. Apply it as a mask on the affected skin. Allow it to dry on its own and then rinse it off with lukewarm water. Follow this remedy on a daily basis to reduce discoloration.

10. Almonds Being a rich source of vitamin E, almonds are

good for skin and especially hyperpigmented skin.

Soak five almonds in milk overnight. Next day, remove the almonds from the milk and grind them, adding milk to get a fine paste. Add one teaspoon of honey and few drops of lemon juice to the paste and mix well. Spread the paste over the affected skin before going to sleep. Wash it off in the morning with cold water. Follow this remedy every night for two weeks, and then do it twice weekly.

You can also eat almonds on a regular basis to minimize hyperpigmentation.

Along with these remedies, there are many preventive measures that you need to bear in mind. For instance, to prevent hyperpigmentation, avoid excessive sun exposure and if required to go in the sun then apply a sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30.

Also, reapply the sunscreen every three hours. Plus, to enjoy healthy skin you must follow a proper skin care routine – cleansing, toning, moisturizing and exfoliating.

Enjoy warm session and will see you next month.

Nimisha

Call: (07) 3192 5188

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023 — 45

Monthly Predictions OCTOBER - 2023 Aries ( 21st March to 20th April )

Taurus ( 21st April to 21st May )

Gemini ( 22nd May to 21st June )

Because of your own errors, the Sun's movement this month may cause you to fall into depression. As a result, it is advisable that you do some analysis, attempt to fix your errors, and work on your abilities in order to prevent depression from affecting your relationships and work performance. You will receive the graces of Jupiter and Mercury. Therefore, advice from elders and life experts will assist you in making the best choice at the appropriate time. If you're single, Venus this month can help you have a successful love life and commit to a long-term partnership. The marriage will be significantly impacted by the children. Your children may provide you with excellent news. Have some analysis and seek professional counsel at work before taking any significant project-related action to ensure that you can complete the project's execution successfully. Backlogs and unfinished work must be cleared this month in order to avoid the weight of more effort. As the Ketu transit indicates, be prepared for an unexpected workload. Your achievement in jobs involving research will be good. Ketu and Mars advise against acting extravagantly. Spending according to priorities will give you protection from the economic downturn. Sun exposure can result in medical costs. Students will succeed in research-related work, although they may incur costs for travel and effort related to their projects and research.

Mercury's journey this month will promote sound judgement and wisdom, although Saturn's influence may cause some lag time in achieving the desired outcome. This month, success will be largely determined by one's ability to be persistent and patient, both personally and professionally. The transit of Rahu and Ketu is warning people to pay attention to their marriage relationships because they may become strained due to demanding personalities and suspicious attitudes. Rahu and Mars movement can provide unexpected results in this regard for some people who might be in a second marriage or who were waiting for a divorce or second marriage. A sudden conflict with a business partner may result from the Venus and Ketu movement in the month of October. Not a good month to make significant financial investments or decisions. Some of you may experience financial difficulties and problems with loans. Those of you who are employed will have success and raises this year, but Ketu's influence advises you to stay out of office politics and to refrain from discussing unimportant matters at work.

Because of Mars and Mercury in October, there may be an unexpected debate at work. The student will be commended and acknowledged for their excellent performance and accomplishment in the competitive exam. Some of you might get clashes with your friends. Health needs to be taken care in the third week and also have an attentive approach with your diet and thoughts as well. Light exercise and meditation will save you from the negative result of Rahu and Sun-Ketu this month.

You'll have a very busy month, both professionally and personally. Working according to priorities will enable you to simplify and streamline your tasks.

Jupiter might inspire a desire to pursue spiritual growth, acquire a second language, and help others.

Mercury is prepared to support you in coming to a wise decision. However, because of the amount of work, Sun and Ketu can bring some unease. Sun and Ketu advise you to steer clear of arguments and pointless conversations with your significant other this month. If you waited a long time to file for divorce, you may still be successful. Sun and Jupiter can help you to get the loan sanction easily. The government or the mother's family may offer financial support. In terms of your career, you can easily overcome obstacles at work. But you should refrain from arguing with a coworker. Venus and Ketu's movements indicate that you should take an innovative approach to work in order to achieve your goals. This month, Jupiter will provide you the anticipated success in projects and careers involving foreign countries. Due to lack of focus, the learner may encounter some uncertain obstacles. Sun movement advises you to maintain your immunity for your wellness. To have good health, you must improve your daily routine and incorporate some healthy behaviours. Because Ketu and Jupiter can create some disruptions in sleeping comfort, it is advised that older people and pregnant women get enough rest and avoid stress.

Cancer ( 22nd June to 22nd July )

Leo ( 23rd July to 22nd August )

Virgo ( 23rd August to 22nd September )

Sun movement this month may provide some relief from needless tension and workload. You might have a brief respite from your hectic routine. However, this month's Ketu and Mars movements advise you to take good care of your health and refrain from overthinking. Some of you may experience stress as a result of familial demands or interpersonal problems. Things will progressively get better. Jupiter and Mercury are on your side, so exercise some patience and try to avoid getting into a fight by having a civil talk instead. Venus is able to host a modest party at home. Some of you might receive an unexpected romantic proposal from a work colleague. Some of you might have an unexpected dispute with a female coworker as a result of a communication breakdown. Mars and Ketu also imply that a professional connection may suffer, thus you are advised to respond in a harsh and combative manner.

You can expect some growth if you work in the legal industry or in a career that is related to engineering. Financially, Mars may cause a rash of medical expenses as well as house and business renovation costs. Some of you spend a lot of money on cars, therefore it's a good idea to service your car often. Because of health concerns, the student may experience unforeseen difficulties. You can get into a fight with your parents if they are overbearing or too demanding. To make things simpler for you, it would be beneficial to have a direct and constructive talk with them. This month, those of you studying martial arts can find a wonderful mentor.

Don't try to dictate your spouse or put too much pressure on them. To renew your love and married life, give your lover some space and consider taking a short journey together to get to know one another better.

Love and romance can exist in a distance relationship.

You may receive financial assistance from your spouse.

Your marriage will be significantly impacted by your children. The transit of Mars might make you aggressive and have a bad impact on your physical condition. This Mars transit may bring back old, lingering health problems. Due to the workload, stress will be present, thus mediation is encouraged. You should strive to be consistent with your meditation before bed and avoid excessive use of technological devices, according to a forecast from transiting Mercury and Ketu. Yoga and meditation can help you stay healthy. Unexpected costs associated with travelling with family, friends, and siblings may arise. Taking new courses can result in course-related costs. Additionally, religious work may incur unanticipated costs. Some courses for skill improvement may cost money. Try to pay off all of your insurance and tax obligations this month. In business, there may be some conflict and workload, but with appropriate planning and communicating the proper plan and logic to your business partner. Be positive and relaxed when having a conversation. Traveling will not give the businessperson the desired results. relating to the new agreement.

You need to improve your routine this month if you want to stay healthy. You may experience health problems involving your hands and nerves. Use caution when handling technological devices, and try to meditate before bed. This will help you sleep well and enhance your overall health. To have a positive and healthy relationship, try to be modest and sincere in your communication. A coworker might make a relationship proposal, but you shouldn't rush into it. Instead, take your time accepting the proposal and be clear about your commitment to a long-term relationship. This month, relationships that emphasise communication and commitment will be particularly crucial. There may be opportunities to enrol in new courses or learn new skills that will cost you money. Some of you can succeed in real estate-related matters by spending some money. There will be a last-minute business travel. Seniors will be there to help and advise you. At work, you'll have senior staff and good fortune on your side. Ego conflicts with seniors may produce certain adjustments that need to be addressed. If you're considering it, this month's advice from your mentor and senior will be helpful. This month will be successful for you if you work in the creative or communication industries. Gainful financial results from a new project at work.

Libra ( 23rd September to 22nd October )

Scorpio ( 23rd October to 22nd November )

Sagittarius ( 23rd November to 21st December )

The time to reassess your relationship will be in a month.

If the discomfort persists past a certain point, Saturn will bring it to the fore and force you to face the truth— and nothing but the truth—about your existence. The transiting Jupiter will offer energy and optimism to your love life as the month goes on. Additionally, it could encourage you to share your truest emotions with the people you care about. This month, you could be able to carry out some of your unfinished financial goals. As the month goes on, the transiting Mercury may support you as you experiment with different strategies for raising your personal funds and looking for financial gain in multiple directions. As this month comes to a close, planetary influences will still be favourable and your income will be respectable. The effects of Nodes may halt your professional advancement. You will be under a lot of job pressure throughout the month, and Mars' influence may make you less efficient.

Businesspeople should put off starting new projects because they won't be able to think clearly. As the month begins, planetary influences are expected to support your academic endeavours. But as the month goes on, there could be some commotion due to Saturn's transit. The planetary factors suggest that you will have a fantastic academic opportunity in the second half of this month. As you get Jupiter's benefits, learning becomes easier. Regarding your health and fitness, this month will continue to be favourable. But the later half of this month, when Saturn will be transiting, might bring up a number of previous health difficulties. So, follow the diet your doctor has advised.

You may benefit from the planetary influence this month as you make important relationship decisions.

You can go to the next stage if your partnership is devoted. People who are married will discover that their lives are greatly enhanced by love. As the month goes on, single people will have plenty of romantic options. The beginning of the month should see strong cash flow, according to the stars. However, as the month goes on, the influence of Saturn and the South Node create an unsettling scenario on the financial front. The planets may put your money management and investment strategies to the test until the middle of this month. This month's second half will present welcome prospects for matters involving investments and the purchase of real estate. This month, the planets are expected to continue assisting you in accomplishing your professional goals. Your professional development will be aided by some of your former acquaintances.

If you are in business, the potent unifying energies of the benefic planets will enable you to successfully navigate some challenging circumstances. This month's stars are expected to deliver uplifting developments for academic success. The Mars impact suggests that sometimes your overconfidence may cause you to treat your studies somewhat lightly, which can lead to unneeded disruptions. You may prevent health issues and preserve your health by following a healthy diet and exercise programme. However, the influence of Mars says that you need to pay attention if you want to keep your emotional wellness. Relaxation methods will be beneficial.

You'll experience a lot of difficulty in your romantic relationships at the start of this month. Married couples may also experience problems. But as the month goes on, the stars predict that you'll enjoy tremendous love and a high social standing. Planets will have favourable aspects to financial matters at the beginning of this month. You will be able to battle to win your case if you are dealing with any legal concerns with your assets. It will be a good time to make real estate or land investments.

You might feel pressured to form a partnership with someone dear to you at the start of this month. However, you should wait before making a decision at this time because the transiting Nodes may cause issues.

Jupiter and Mercury's combined influence will work in your favour so you may showcase your greatest skills. The second part of the month may present some excellent chances for professional development and advancement. The initial effects of Mars point to potential conflicts with your classmates or seniors. Try to maintain control of your emotions and actions. You can benefit from maintaining cordial ties in many ways. In the latter half of this month, Mercury and Jupiter will have a positive influence on you, but Venus's influence may prevent you from devoting enough attention to your studies. This could cause your learning process to stall and prevent you from making the necessary progress. Saturn predicts that you will be extremely sensitive, emotional, and occasionally pessimistic as the month gets started. The stars predict that as the month goes on, your immune system will continue to be strong, but your tendency to take stresses out on others will put you under stress.

Capricorn ( 22nd December to 20th January )

Aquarius ( 21st January to 18th February )

Pisces ( 19th February to 20th March )

Mars' erratic energy at the start of the month has the potential to ruin your relationship. With each passing day of the month, things can start to get simpler. If you are unable to control your emotions in the middle of this month, your relationship may suffer. Both singles and married couples will benefit from the latter half of this month. As the month begins, Mercury's favourable influence will enable you to carry out your financial objectives successfully. Your objectives will be achievable. Your prior investments or immovable property might yield profitable results. Your financial plans could come under some pressure from Mars towards the middle of this month. It's possible that some past problems with your investments or tax obligations will reemerge. However, improved luck will enable you to improve your financial situation. Venus is likely to bring you some excellent professional development prospects. But there may be some unexpected modifications brought on by Nodes. Some events during this time may be challenging to manage if you are a business. You may have the good support of your seniors starting around the middle of this month, and luck will be on your side. You will therefore have more opportunities to advance. If you are in business, you will be able to decide how to move forward with clarity. Jupiter's influence at the beginning of the month may encourage and pique your desire in continuing your education. Mercury suggests that as the month goes on, your disciplined attitude to your studies may allow you to succeed. This month, there won't be any significant health problems.

Venus might make you more enthusiastic, and if you examine closely enough, you might be able to use this quality to your advantage and spice up your relationships with the people you love. Mars predicts that as the month goes on, there might be some arguments and conflicts with your loved ones and family. Both married people and unmarried people will benefit from the time around the month's conclusion.

Due to Jupiter's favour, there will be a significant probability of achieving long-term success. As the month goes on, Saturn can demand sound financial planning. Due to obligations to family, unexpected expenses may occur most likely around the middle of this month. Your social circle may support you in reaching your professional objectives. This month, you're probably going to interact with your authority figures more. Business will significantly improve, according to businesspeople. Mars and Venus working together support long-distance and international relationships, which can greatly aid you in growing your business. Jupiter and Mercury's influence encourages students who are eager to pursue further education abroad. To proceed in higher education, a student must be very focused and diligent. To proceed in higher education, a student must be very focused and diligent. You might continue to experience some minor health issues at the beginning of this month. Saturn will admonish you to continue taking care of some previous health difficulties. Your health is not looking good from a planetary perspective till the middle of this month.

In general, you'll keep your outlook positive this month. Jupiter might be on your side. Therefore, it is a good moment to look for solutions and battle the odds to the best of your ability, judgement, and patience. Venus could bring about a wonderful period for your love life and relationship as the month goes on. Your romantic life could feel new and exciting.

Jupiter could present you with some lucrative employment prospects this month. Go all-out, but remember to maintain equilibrium when making crucial judgments. Mercury and Mars will work in your favour and assist you in planning your actions well. The influence of Mars suggests that you may face obstacles and experience pressure from your superiors or supervisors at work. You might experience considerably better planetary support as the month goes on. As a result, you will be able to handle the pressure at work extremely effectively. Businesspeople should anticipate some excellent chances to investigate fresh possibilities for increasing sales. Jupiter will be in your favour around the middle of this month. As the month gets started, Mars suggests that an excellent opportunity for academic advancement will renew your belief in your own ability. You may have some excellent opportunity to learn new things and broaden your knowledge thanks to Jupiter's passage. Your academic progress will be more rapid. Your health will continue to be a little bit problematic at the start of this month, predicts Saturn. Although it will gradually improve, Saturn can require rigorous restraint.

46 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2020 — 51

Indian men's hockey team wins gold at Hangzhou, seals Olympic berth India stands at a total of 22 gold, 34 silver, and 39 bronze medals at the Asian Games 2023.

The Indian men's hockey team clinched the gold medal with a 5-1 victory over Japan in the final of the Asian Games 2023 in Hangzhou. This win also secured India a place at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Manpreet Singh, Harmanpreet Singh, Amit Rohidas, and Abhishek contributed to the goals in the match against defending champions Japan.

This marked India’s fourth gold medal win in Asian Games hockey.

In the archery events, the Indian men's recurve

team secured the silver medal, while the women's team clinched the bronze.

On October 7, Jyothi Surekha Vennam and Ojas Pravin Deotale will compete for gold in the women's compound and men's compound individual events, respectively.

On the other hand, HS Prannoy secured a bronze medal in men's singles at the badminton tournament but faced a defeat in the semi-finals to Li Shifeng of China. Meanwhile, the duo of Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy

advanced to the men's doubles gold medal match

Virat Kohli and KL Rahul guide India to Cricket World Cup victory over Australia Virat Kohli and KL Rahul have guided India to a comfortable six-wicket victory over Australia in their Cricket World Cup opener.

The pair steadied the ship for the hosts after Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood combined to send Rohit Sharma, Ishan Kashan and Shreyas Iyer all back to the pavilion for ducks.

With that early onslaught, India found themselves 3-2.

But that was the end of Australia's joy as they were left to rue a simple Mitch Marsh dropped catch.

Kohli was dropped on 12

by Marsh when he skied a short ball off Hazlewood.

Marsh charged in but failed to get his hands to the ball as it went through his arms with Alex Carey also approaching.

It proved costly as Kohli reached 85 before he was eventually caught at midwicket pulling Hazlewood (3-38) again.

But by that point, the game was all but over, as India ran down the target with 8.4 overs to spare.

"It's not ideal, especially someone of his calibre," Australia captain Pat Cummins said of the drop.

"It happens, 4-20 would have been a dream start, but not to be."

KL Rahul also finished unbeaten on 97, as he and Kohli put on 165 for the fourth wicket after Mitchell Starc (1-31) and Hazlewood had India wobbling at 3-2.

India were able to bat without risk after Kohli's early life in the chase, against an Australian team that were sloppy at times at Chennai's MA Chidambaram Stadium.

The obvious net run-rate

hit aside, the other big issue for Australia looms as spin.

On a slow wicket that offered plenty for the turners, India's three spinners bowled a combined 30 overs for 6-104 as Australia batted themselves into a hole.

Only David Warner and Steve Smith passed 30 for the five-time world champions, before they were all out in the last over and faced 174 dot balls in their innings.

Australia at one stage went 73 balls between boundaries and hit two in total between the 16th and 39th overs, in a period where spin was almost exclusively used.

Ravindra Jadeja was the pick of the spinners with 3-28, while Kuldeep Yadav also bagged 2-42 after taking the crucial wicket of Warner for 41 to halt Australia's momentum.

Jadeja then took all three of his wickets in the space of 2.3 overs, as Australia's platform of 2-110 quickly eroded to 5-119.

The left-arm orthodox spinner's ball to get Smith was the best of the lot, after it angled in at the right-hander, spun back past his outside edge and took the top of off stump for 46.

48 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023

In reply, and with the ball skidding on more in dewy conditions, Australia's spinners couldn't get anywhere near the same purchase.

After Starc and Hazlewood left India reeling with three wickets in the first two overs, the hosts were able to cruise through the middle parts of their innings.

Maxwell was brought on by the 10th over and went for 0-33 from his eight overs, while Adam Zampa went for 0-53 from eight.

With Ashton Agar a late omission for the tournament through a calf injury, Australia's spin stocks are limited with Zampa the only front-line option in the squad.

But on Sunday night, he never really threatened to take a wicket That could become an issue later in the tournament, particularly if wicket squares wear and turn more as the World Cup goes on.

"We had them 3 for none basically with our quick bowlers, so I wasn't too upset (about the lack of spin options)," Cummins said.

"We still had 20 overs of spin.

with a convincing win over Malaysia's Aaron Chia

and Soh Wooi Yik, setting a historic milestone as the first Indian pair to reach the badminton final at the Asian Games.

Indian freestyle wrestlers Sonam Malik, Aman Sehrawat, and Kiran Bishnoi secured bronze medals in their respective categories. India's wrestling tally now stands at five bronze medals.

The Indian men's kabaddi team secured a place in the Asian Games 2023 final with a 61-14 victory against Pakistan. This win marked India's eighth appearance

in the kabaddi final at the Asian Games. They will face Iran in the final.

In women's sepaktakraw (Kick volleyball), India secured a historic bronze medal marking the country’s first-ever women's sepaktakraw medal at the Asian Games, with the other bronze being won by the men's team in Jakarta 2018.

India's women's regu team, featuring Ayekpam Maipak Devi, Oinam Chaoba Devi, Khushbu, Elangbam Priya Devi, and Elangbam Leirentombi Devi secured the win.

Fiji squeeze into quarter-final against England despite defeat by Portugal A historic first World Cup win for Portugal, a place in the quarter-finals for Fiji where they will face England and elimination for Eddie Jones’s Australia. But that barely tells the half of it. The final match of the pool stages proved by some distance the most entertaining with Rodrigo Marta’s late try and Samuel Marques’s nerveless conversion handing Portugal the most dramatic of victories.

Os Lobos have won hearts and minds throughout the tournament and now they have a victory to saviour. The sight of their players singing their lungs out in front of their delirious supporters soon after the final whistle will be one of the abiding memories of the tournament. That and the expert touch-finder from the hooker Mike Tadjer, under considerable pressure, in the first half.

Fiji, for their part, looked to have clawed their way back to a nervous victory for the second week in a row until Marta struck. They squeeze into the quarterfinals for the first time in 16 years and only the third time in their history by virtue of their losing bonus point – which in turn snuffs out any faint hope the Wallabies had of edging into the last eight.

Fiji will regroup before facing England in Marseille and can take heart from their victory at Twickenham in August but they will have to make significant improvements against Steve Borthwick’s side.

“We’re very happy to be there but we’ve got a lot of work to do this week,” said Fiji’s head coach, Simon Raiwalui.

Portugal, meanwhile, have played with ambition and at times abandon in this tournament and have won many admirers. The openside flanker Nicolas Martins turned in a tireless

performance while Marques led from scrum-half with huge authority and we can expect a scramble for a whole host of their players’ signatures on the back of this showing. It’s something incredible. “We worked a lot for that,” said Martins. “It’s historic. I’m so happy. It’s the best moment of my life.”

They twice led by seven points in the second half – one more and Australia would have been heading into the last eight – before Fiji’s pressure eventually told and Mesake Doge burrowed over. Two Frank Lomani penalties put the Pacific islanders on course for victory but Marta had other ideas.

All things told, it was a mad-cap match. Sweltering conditions made handling difficult so it was as errorstrewn as it was entertaining but that added to the sense of theatre. It was just 3-3 at half-time, Lomani and Marques trading penalties.

Fiji might have scored the opening try had the fullback Sireli Maqala not lost his footing at the vital moment, and Portugal’s Raffaele Storti was also agonisingly close, knocking the loose ball on as he dived just short of the line.

Five minutes into the second half, however, Storti had his try. The fly-half Jeronimo Portela claimed a magnificent high ball

and Portugal recycled to the right. The grubber from the captain José Lima was inch perfect and Storti had the pace to get there first.

Marques’s conversion from the touchline gave Portugal a seven-point advantage.

Fiji were rattled and Portugal threatened again down the left but a loose pass from Martins gave Maqala the chance to break clear and Levani Botia eventually went over from close range.

Lomani’s conversion levelled the score at 10-10.

Moments later Botia was sent to the bunker for a high shot on Marta and, from the ensuing penalty, Portugal’s loosehead prop Francisco Fernandes burrowed over from close range. Botia’s yellow card was not upgraded to red because of Marta’s change of direction but Portugal’s resolute defence continued to frustrate Fiji.

Eventually, however, their mounting pressure told with Doge squeezing over and Lomani again levelling with the conversion before kicking two further penalties.

Portugal countered, however, through Marta, who ran a superb inside line to dot down with barely a minute remaining. Marques still had work to do with his conversion but after a lengthy break he showed icy veins to nail the kick and send the Portugal faithful into raptures.

Use Your Voice Wisely Dr Puneeth Rajkumar Multicultural Cricket Cup OPINION PIECE - Graham Perrett MP Announced by QKCSS Dr. Puneeth Rajkumar Multicultural Cricket Cup" Announced by QKCSS in association with Aust-Ind Cricket Club. “In a thrilling development for cricket fans, the Queensland Kannadigas' Cultural and Sports Society Inc. (QKCSS), in partnership with the Aust-Ind Cricket Club, has announced the launch of the "Dr. Puneeth Rajkumar Multicultural Cricket Cup".

This vibrant tournament is slated to take place on October 29, 2023, with the Aust-Ind Cricket Club poised to be the flagship home team. The Aust-Ind Cricket Club, founded in 1995 as a hub for cricket enthusiasts, has evolved into a club of sportsmanship and fair play. Their significant track record includes notable performances in prestigious competitions such as 'The Warehouse Association' and 'Sub-district Cricket'.

The club clinched the title in the Warehouse Competition in 2020-2021 and consistently reached the finals over the last three years. Such achievements have cemented the Aust-Ind Cricket Club's reputation as a formidable opponent, prompting rival teams

Call: (07) 3192 5188

This vibrant tournament is slated to take place on October 29, 2023, with the Aust-Ind Cricket Club poised to be the flagship home team. The AustInd Cricket Club, founded in 1995 as a hub for cricket enthusiasts, has evolved into a club of sportsmanship and fair play. always to bring their best to the field. QKCSS, on the other hand, is renowned for hosting an array of events that draw approximately 500 attendees each.

With a history of celebrating multiculturalism through classical music concerts and artist meetand-greets, QKCSS is now shifting its focus to the cricket pitch. Their vision is clear: nurture top-tier talent and introduce them to the local circuit, aiming for standout performances in premier tournaments like the 'Subdistricts Cricket Tournament' in 2023.

Through these initiatives, QKCSS hopes to provide budding cricketers a platform

to hone their skills and eventually join elite teams like Aust-Ind. With both organisations committed to fostering talent and promoting multiculturalism, the "Dr. Puneeth Rajkumar Multicultural Cricket Cup" is more than just a game. It's a testament to the power of sports in bringing diverse communities together.

As the countdown begins to this landmark event, cricket enthusiasts and the community eagerly await what promises to be an unforgettable sporting spectacle.

As the anticipation builds, we invite all community members to join us on this special day. Celebrated in memory and contribution

by Dr. Puneeth Rajkumar to multiculturalism, this event is more than just a game; it's a tribute to unity, diversity, and the spirit of sportsmanship. By attending, you not only witness toptier cricket action but also play a part in championing the values Dr. Rajkumar held dear to his heart. Let's come together, cheer for our teams, and show our local community the strength and beauty of our shared heritage and community spirit!

Back in 1901 the Australian Constitution originally took its legal authority from the parliament of the United Kingdom. Gradually, over time, the document now derives its legal power from the Australian people.

As we have evolved as a nation, sovereignty has shifted from London to our own continent. Only Australians can now decide if our founding document is changed.

The drafters of our Constitution wrote lots of details about intergovernment relationships and the sharing of responsibilities.

The Founding Fathers did not try for an overall vision for the new nation.

However, one thing the white men agreed on was the exclusion of Aborigines and Torres Strait Islanders.

They also ensured that laws could be made to exclude and punish people based on their race. The Founding Fathers wanted to exclude Indians, Chinese and other non-British people.

Racist thinking pervaded the drafting of our nation’s founding document.

For example, Section 25 in the Constitution still specifically refers to “Provisions as to races disqualified from voting”

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Race has never gone away. More than 90% of the people who lived in the colonies that supported the Constitution were born in Australia. Most Australians had connections to Great Britain.

and Section 51 (26) gives the parliament the power to make laws for “the people of any race for whom it is deemed necessary to make special laws”.

Race has never gone away. More than 90% of the people who lived in the colonies that supported the Constitution were born in Australia. Most Australians had connections to Great Britain. However, modern multicultural Australia is different. Now more than 50% of us have a parent born overseas. For the last decade, India and China have been the top countries of origin for migrants. The British Union Jack takes up a quarter of our flag but now many more races call Australia home.

It is time our Constitution

reflected modern Australia by recognising the past.

It is a way to correct an error. It is time to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in our Constitution. This is the first step.

The second proposed change involves listening to First Nations People about the matters that affect their lives. A Voice is their suggested mechanism. The concept came out of many years of consultation and the Uluru Statement from the Heart. It will deliver better results in education, housing, employment and health and won’t take anything away from other Australians. It will be a better use of taxpayer dollars and will save lives.

I grew up in a small country town, called St George, that has a significant First Nations community.

Too many of my Aboriginal school friends and team mates have passed away.

I know that too many have faced disadvantage and discrimination. The status quo is not working. We can do better.

I know that Australians are generous people and would like a create a better future together.

Voting “Yes” is a simple way to achieve real change.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023 — 49

FIRST WINNERS, NOMINATIONS ANNOUNCED FOR

16th ASIA PACIFIC SCREEN AWARDS

32 films from 17 Asia Pacific countries and areas nominated in 2023 Igniting cinema, uniting cultures The Asia Pacific Screen Academy today announced the first winners for the 16th Asia Pacific Screen Awards, along with the full list of nominations, ahead of the November 3 Ceremony at Home of the Arts (HOTA) on Australia’s Gold Coast.

At this unique event, dedicated to celebrating culture through screen stories, the winner of the 16th APSA Cultural Diversity Award is Rapture (Rimdogittanga), directed by Dominic Megam Sangma. A rare co-production between India and China, this Garolanguage story explores the politics of fear in a north-east Indian village, where the community fears kidnapping and the church prophesises a period of apocalyptic darkness.

In 2023, the APSA Young Cinema Award goes to director Phạm Thiên Ân for his feature debut Inside the Yellow Cocoon Shell (Bên Trong Vỏ Kén Vàng), a Vietnamese-language film journeying from urban to rural Vietnam to reunite a grieving family. This award, given in partnership with NETPAC (Network for the Promotion of Asia Pacific Cinema) and Griffith Film School, recognises the abundant emerging talent of the Asia Pacific.

The five films in the running for the prestigious APSA Best Film Award are the two Japanese films Evil Does Not Exist (Aku Wa Sonzai Shinai) and Perfect Days, Snow Leopard (Xue bao) from the People’s Republic of China, the Georgian story Citizen Saint(Mokalake Tsmindani) and Qas from Kazakhstan.

32 films from 17 Asia

Pacific countries and areas are nominated in the 16th Asia Pacific Screen Awards, with films from Japan receiving 11 nominations and films from the People’s Republic of China receiving 9 nominations.

The film with the most nominations for the 16th Asia Pacific Screen Awards, with a total of four, is Evil Does Not Exist (Aku Wa Sonzai Shinai), from Japanese writer-director and previous APSA Best Film winner Ryusuke Hamaguchi (Drive My Car). It is nominated for Best Film, Best Director, Best Screenplay and Best Cinematography (Yoshio Kitagawa).

With three nominations including Best Film is the late Pema Tseden’s Snow Leopard (Xue bao, People’s Republic of China), which sees Pema Tseden nominated for Best Screenplay and Jinpa nominated for Best Performance.

In the running for APSA Best Screenplay alongside Pema Tseden and Ryusuke Hamaguchi are Anthony Shim for Riceboy Sleeps(Canada, Republic of Korea), Liang Ming for Carefree Days (Xiao yao you, People’s Republic of China) and Nicole Midori Woodford for Last Shadow at First Light (Singapore, Japan, Slovenia, Philippines, Indonesia).

For APSA Best Director, Hamaguchi is up against Celine Song for Past Lives (Republic of Korea, United States of America), Darkhan Tulegenov for Brothers (Bratya, Kazakhstan), Liang Ming for Carefree Days (Xiao yao you, People’s Republic

of China) and Rima Das for Tora’s Husband (India).

Nominated for APSA Best Cinematography are Azamat Dulatov for Qas (Kazakhstan), Hao Jiayue for A Song Sung Blue (People’s Republic of China), Kenneth Cyrus for Whispers of Fire & Water (India), Krum Rodriguez for Citizen Saint (Mokalake Tsmindani;Georgia, France, Bulgaria) and the forementioned Yoshio Kitagawa.

Now in its second year, the ungendered APSA Best Performance has as its nominees Koji Yakusho for his role in Perfect Days(Japan), Mihaya Shirata for her role in Last Shadow at First Light (Singapore, Japan, Slovenia, Philippines, Indonesia), Mouna Hawa for her role in Inshallah a Boy (Inshallah Walad; Jordan, France, Saudi Arabia, Qatar), Zhou Dongyu for her role in The Breaking Ice (Ran dong, People’s Republic of China) and the forementioned Jinpa for his role in Snow Leopard (Xue bao).

Stories from five countries spread right across the region are nominated for APSA Best Youth Film. Bauryna Salu (Kazakhstan)directed by Askhat Kuchinchirekov, Blueback (Australia) directed by Robert Connolly, A House in Jerusalem (Palestine, United Kingdom, Qatar, Netherlands, Germany) directed by Muayad Alayan, Monster (Kaibutsu, Japan) directed

by Kore-eda Hirokazu and Tiger Stripes (Malaysia, Taiwan, Singapore, France, Germany, Netherlands, Indonesia, Qatar) directed

by Amanda Nell Eu. In the running for APSA Best Animated Film are Deep Sea (Shen hai, People’s Republic of China) directed

by Tian Xiaopeng, The First Slam Dunk (Japan) directed

by Takehiko Inoue, Scarygirl (Australia) directed by Ricard Cussó and co-directed

by Tania Vincent, The Siren (La Sirène; France, Germany, Luxembourg, Belgium) directed by Sepideh Farsi and Suzume (Suzume no Tojimari, Japan) directed by Makoto Shinkai.

Competing in the category of APSA Best Documentary Film are Against the Tide (India, France) directed by Sarvnik Kaur, Beyond Utopia (United States) directed

by Madeleine Gavin, Man in Black (France, United States, United Kingdom) directed by Wang Bing, Nam June Paik: Moon Is the Oldest TV (United States, Republic of Korea) directed

by Amanda Kim and To Kill a Tiger(Canada) directed by Nisha Pahuja.

Chair of the Asia Pacific Screen Academy Tracey Vieira said: “APSA would like to congratulate the first winners and all nominees for the 16th edition of the Asia Pacific Screen Awards. As the region’s film industry flourishes, it is significant that almost half of the nominations this year go to first or second time filmmakers, who are vying for the awards alongside some of the most celebrated filmmakers of our time. APSA would also like to take a moment to acknowledge the sad loss of two highly accoladed filmmakers, Pema Tseden and Ryuichi Sakamoto,

APSA winners whose last works are nominated this year, and whose stories live on in their films, cherished around the world.”

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said: “An internationally spectacular event like no other, the Asia Pacific Screen Awards is set to shine at HOTA this November. The 16th edition of APSA to take place on the Gold Coast will revel in uniting the best of the best from the world of Asia Pacific cinema for a memorable night.”

Major Partner Screen Queensland CEO, Jacqui Feeney said: “Screen Queensland is incredibly proud to host the 16th Asia Pacific Screen Awards and we heartily congratulate the nominees and first winners for this year. APSA has always been an event that brings talented filmmakers from across our vast region to Queensland to celebrate their work.

Of equal importance, the Asia Pacific Screen Forum offers the chance to connect, to learn from each other and to help our respective industries strengthen, grow and diversify. We look forward to welcoming all guests from across the Asia Pacific this November.”

Nominations are determined by the APSA Nominations Councils. In 2023 the APSA International Nominations Council is composed of Bina Paul (India) – Chair, Anderson Le (United States), Delphine Garde-Mroueh (France), Gulnara Abikeyeva (Kazakhstan), John Badalu (Indonesia), Kiki Fung (Hong Kong) and Yoshi Yatabe (Japan). On the 2023 APSA Youth, Animation,

Documentary International Nominations Council are Faramarz K-Rahber (Australia) – Chair, Carl Joseph Papa (Philippines) and Zoe Sua Cho (New Zealand, Republic of Korea).

Running concurrently from 1 - 4 November, the 5th Asia Pacific Screen Forum is a unique programme for the screen industry, encouraging relationshipbuilding networking opportunities, as well as cultural and knowledge exchange both from within Australia and across the Asia Pacific. It features in-conversations, workshops, panel discussions and intimate roundtables with a public programme of screenings and Q&As. The Asia Pacific Screen Awards and the Forum are presented by the Asia Pacific Screen Academy with the support of major partners the City of Gold Coast, Screen Queensland, the Motion Picture Association and Griffith Film School, Griffith University.

APSA acknowledges and celebrates its founding partnership with FIAPF International Federation of Film Producers Associations.

The 16th Asia Pacific Screen Awards Red Carpet and Ceremony will take place Friday 3 November at Home of the Arts (HOTA) on the Gold Coast, Australia, on the traditional land of the Kombumerri families of the Yugambeh Language Region.

Tickets are on sale for the full Forum and the 16th Asia Pacific Screen Awards ceremony: https://www. asiapacificscreenawards. com

140 cities to be shaped with the return of APCS to Brisbane The Asia Pacific Cities Summit (2023APCS) and Mayors’ Forum returns this October, bringing one of the largest and most diverse gatherings of mayors and delegates from over 140 cities to Brisbane.

Now in its 27th year, the award-winning biennial event is shared between Brisbane and offshore host cities and is set to bring a multi-million-dollar boost to Brisbane’s economy.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the 2023APCS will focus on several topics, including shaping cities, sustainability, business expansion and tourism benefits.

“Each year, the APCS event aims to connect leaders across government, business, and industry to identify common challenges, exchange knowledge and drive commercial outcomes,” Cr Schrinner said.

“While a special hybrid edition of APCS was held in Brisbane in 2021, the

2019 edition of the program saw more than $7.5 million injected into our economy during the event.

“We saw more than $4.2 billion worth of city-ready project tenders presented and more than $1.5 million in business transactions signed.

“The event will provide a forum where tangible business outcomes can be realised as the region looks to drive economic growth and job creation ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“The decisions and partnerships formed during this event will impact more

50 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023

than half a billion people worldwide, making it the ultimate networking event here in Brisbane.”

The 2023 theme ‘Shaping Cities for the Future’ will be the key discussion point among the keynote speakers on the show, including Canadian award-winning author Charles Montgomery, Korean-Australian two-time world champion debater and former Harvard debate team coach Bo Seo, and President of the Organising Committee for Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Andrew Liveris AO. Charles Montgomery, author of the acclaimed

book, ‘Happy City’, will share invaluable insights on creating happier, healthier, and more inclusive cities.

World champion debater Bo Seo will draw on his experience in debating to discuss the benefits of constructive arguments and disagreements and highlight how important it is for leaders to engage in productive conflict.

Inaugural President of the Brisbane 2032 Organising Committee, Andrew Liveris AO, will dive further into his political background, advising three U.S. presidents and co-chairing President Barack Obama's Advanced

Manufacturing Partnership.

He will further explore the incredible benefits of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Brisbane and South East Queensland.

The event will also see several networking opportunities across the industry, product exhibitions and an exclusive young professional leadership program conducted through Griffith University.

Cr Schrinner said the event would be the crown jewel in Brisbane’s business events calendar.

“This fantastic opportunity to network in person with business leaders from all over the world only comes around every two years and is not to be missed,” he said.

“I invite Brisbane’s business community to get involved and see how you can expand your operations across the Asia Pacific market and beyond.”

The 2023APCS will take place from October 11 – 13.

Registrations are now open

at www.apcsummit.org For more information about the 2023APCS, contact the Council at brisbane.qld. gov.au or call 3403 8888.

The 2023APCS is sponsored by leading organisations, including Presenting Sponsor Visy, Principal Partners of Airbnb, St Baker Energy Innovation Fund and Arup; Major Partners Milken Institute, KPMG and Griffith University; Partners of EarthCheck, Mastercard and Volvo; Sponsors GHD, HCL Tech and Shayher Group; and Supporters Acciona, APAC Network, ARIA, Articulous, Brisbane Airport Corporation, Brisbane Economic Development Agency, Council of Mayors South East Queensland, Gadens, Neuron, Populous, Queensland Futures Institute, Queensland University of Technology, Regional Development Australia, Smart Mortage Corp, Solomons Group, Study Queensland, Smart Cities Council and UN Women Australia.

Peace leaders renew commitment in Seoul CONTD. FROM PG 1 underway to ensure peace in the world.

Among the participants, 187 members of the HWPL Peace Advisory Council, 632 HWPL Public Ambassadors, more than 1,000 IPYGaffiliate organisations and media representatives are in attendance at the Summit.

The Peace Summit covered various issues, including long-term peacebuilding and policy development strategies to spread a culture of peace among world communities.

Chairman of HWPL, Lee Man-Hee, in his opening remarks at the summit, urged leaders and multinational organisations to work in concert to ensure durable peace by preventing conflicts and resolving disputes by utilising peace strategies as a tool.

He also called for a culture of understanding and cooperation between the public and the private sectors towards sustainable peace.

He stressed that “active participation of everyone worldwide is vital to achieve peace.”

According to HWPL, it will sign 453 partnership MoUs with various organisations worldwide.

Peace Leaders Conference Calling for more Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) diplomacy, dialogue, and mediation to head off conflicts before they break out, HWPL officials urged a gathering of world leaders today at Seoul 9th to help strengthen a new approach to sustaining peace, which aims to put prevention of War. “The first line of the Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) us to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war,” HWPL Chairman Man Hee Lee said in his opening remarks to the High-Level Meeting on Peacebuilding and Sustaining Peace, which runs today at Seoul in Korea.

“In a way, we have met this commitment. There has not been another world war.

But, in many other ways, we have not,” he said, noting that a new approach is needed to save people in places of unending conflict, including Ukraine, Ethiopia, Syria, South Sudan, Yemen, Libya, Somalia, and Afghanistan.

Managing Director HWPL Mr Kang Tae-ho said that in 2023, the world decided to take a new approach: the UN adopted what is now known as the ‘sustaining peace resolutions,’ which renew the world body’s commitment to conflict prevention as embodied in the UN Charter.

Two years on, he said there are challenges in making this approach a reality, calling for greater international attention to the need for scaled-up efforts to prevent conflict, achieve coherence within the UN system, and expand partnerships, financing, and inclusion.

Echoing the WPG chairwoman Ms Yoon HyunSOOK's view, women’s role in peace development as a leader highlighted the need Call: (07) 3192 5188

to strengthen partnerships around all efforts and at every stage, from conflict prevention and resolution to peacekeeping, peacebuilding, and long-term development.

She added that critical partners include Governments, the UN, other international, regional, and sub-regional organisations, international financial institutions, the private sector, civil society, and women’s and youth groups.

“Sustaining peace will only be realised through committed, inclusive national ownership that considers the needs of the most marginalised, including women, young people, minorities and people with disabilities,” she said.

“Inequalities are increasing; whole regions, countries, and communities can be isolated from progress and left behind by growth.

These are all indications that we need greater unity and courage – to ease the fears of the people we serve; to set the world on track to a better future, and to lay the foundations of sustainable peace and development,” participants of the 9th Anniversary of the September 18th HWPL World Peace Summit stressed.

Volunteers worked to ensure the smooth arrival and departure of all participants travelling through the airport.

Skilled drivers made sure all guests could be transported safely. The total distance volunteer drivers drove during the event was approximately 800,000 kilometres, nearly 20 times the space around the Earth.

Volunteer interpreters also played a vital role in facilitating communication during the peace summit.

"All of the 800 guests participating in over 30 sessions require interpretation. All materials have to be translated into over 20 languages. Private organisations and most national forums do not operate on such a large scale," said a volunteer interpreter.

The broadcast media team, consisting of 208 volunteers, worked to capture and convey the essence of the summit to a global audience.

"I believe that our videos serve as a powerful tool for spreading a culture of peace, making this event accessible to people worldwide in various languages," said a volunteer.

The medical department prepared in advance to be ready to address a wide range of possible emergencies. The security department also took steps to provide about 400 volunteers with continuous training and education for six months leading up to the event.

The installation team was responsible for the infrastructure to make the event successful. They handled electrical setups, stage installations, and maintenance.

"All of these volunteers, driven by their passion for peace, are working tirelessly to support the

peace summit, and their unwavering commitment is truly remarkable. We HWPL would like to appreciate their dedication and hope that the government will support this peace movement," said an HWPL official.

Peace Leaders Conference Calling for more Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) diplomacy, dialogue, and mediation to head off conflicts before they break out, HWPL officials urged a gathering of world leaders today at Seoul 9th to help strengthen a new approach to sustaining peace, which aims to put prevention of War.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2023 — 51

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