September 2022 - Online edition

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

Volume 19, Number 1 Saturday, September 10th, 2022

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Ghazal Maestro PANKAJ UDHAS - Live in Concert at Sydney Opera House

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 07 3268 6188 Ghazal Maestro ‘PANKAJ UDHAS – performed a live Concert at the Sydney Opera House Akash Lodhia proudly presented the Ghazal Maestro ‘PANKAJ UDHAS - Live in Concert at the Sydney Opera House on 4 September 2022.

Padmashri Pankaj Udhas celebrated 40-years of his musical journey in a one-andonly mega concert. This was the only concert in Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji.

Pankaj Udhas is an Indian ghazal singer, composer, and musician known as The Ghazel Maestro. He is considered one of India’s most prominent, revered, and recognizable artists. He has recorded over 60 albums during his lifetime. He is known to bring traditional ghazal music to the masses. With a singing career spanning over 40 years, Pankaj Udhas continues to be a musical icon to millions of

fans around the globe.

This event was an excellent opportunity to listen to the most illustrious Ghazal singer from India, whose soulful singing and live performances make him an icon to millions of music lovers across the globe. This concert also featured leading musicians from India. The musicians were talented beyond what words can describe.

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Inside

• Local News ..................................4-39 • Real Estate ................................14-17 • wwww ...................................... 28-29 • India News ..................................... 42 • Fiji News ......................................... 44 • Entertainment .............................. 46 • Health & Well Being .................... 48 • Business Directory/Classified ... 51 • Sports News ................................... 52

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

From the Publisher Welcome to our September issue; as they say, Spring has sprung, yes, we are coming on to that beautiful part of the year where flowers will start to bloom, and temperatures will be just right. Let me first mention Pankaj Udhas’s show at the Sydney Opera House. What a concert, an experience; we were privileged to be there.

The venue complimented the artist and the accompanying musicians, who were just fantastic; one just wished the show could go on for every song after song. The show connected with the audience, who were all in for a treat. They had come from far and abroad. The show's success could partly be attributed to the sound engineer and the AV technician accompanying Pankaj Ji. Brisbane Indian Times and Australian Indian Radio were proud to have supported the event as exclusive Queensland Media Partners.

Akash Lodia has been working on this project for a very long time, and the attention to detail was evident in the professional presentation of the show, congratulations to the entire team.

And now we know that Diwali is coming our way very quickly. In preparation for

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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.

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2 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022

Diwali, ABC Bullion is pleased to present the 2022 Diwali 5g Gold Coin, commemorating India’s 75th Year of independence. Struck from 5 grams of 99.99% gold, this coin is produced by ABC Refinery, the preeminent Australasian refiner, assayer, and mint. The coin celebrates Lakshmi sitting upon a lotus flower floating on water with her four arms. Lakshmi is surrounded by a lotus petal ring above her head and Mukut (crown), giving a radiating glow. The coin also includes the ABC Bullion brand mark, and the coin’s weight, fineness, and monetary denomination are retained on the coin’s obverse. I was pleased to have attended the official launch of these coins, my second trip to Sydney in a week; this is a shining example of inclusiveness for our community; we must all take this opportunity to make the annual investment in Gold during Diwali, the perfect choice and timing.

We had the pleasure of attending the Legends of Brisbane dinner function at the music hall in Fortitude Valley, and what a function this was. Thanks, Councillor Sandy Landers for inviting us to join your table; this function had so many amazing

people of Brisbane’s Past legends mingled with current and aspiring ones. Such inspiring stories of each legend in a room full of high achievers, most of whom had post-nominals, a truly remarkable event.

We also bid farewell to Queensland Month, and Davis Crisafulli, leader of the opposition, and John Paul Langbroek held a special awards ceremony at Queensland parliament house for the consular Corp and Multicultural leaders and heads of organizations; we were pleased to receive the certificate for GOPIO Queensland at this cocktail event.

And now, to our India Day Fair 2022, GOPIO Queensland has returned with a bounce back to the popular but challenging venue of Roma Street Parkland. The crowds are back, with COVID behind us now, our excellent showstopper Harbhajan Mann was very week received, the feedback for the entire vent has been very good and encouraging Even a little rain could not dampen the patriotism of our people as they braved the rain to witness and be part of the Iconic India Day Fair 2022. Congratulation to both recipients of GIO Queensland Lifetime Achievement Awards, Baldev Sharma, and Dharam Guru Pundit Harsh Ram Tripathi Ji. The parade was very well managed. The entire team worked very hard to make it a big success especially with the strict compliance that is now the requirement of Roma Street Parkland.

ISKCON Brisbane held the largest Janmashtami in Brisbane at Croatian Community Centre in Rocklea, we were so honoured and privileged to be the guest of honour and deliver a speech to such a large gathering. The atmosphere was divine and the happiness evident, so many devotees and volunteers did join the celebration to spread the goodwill in true essence of “Ras”, joy and happiness was in abundance, food was plentiful and organisation superb.

I would also like to mention NFAK25 Concert by the new formed Infusion Band, what a show of local talent at this mega concert. It is pleasing to see the local talent of this calibre; all the musicians and singers were in sync and that made a big difference. I was particularly pleased with the attention to details to the coordination and composition of the songs, the interludes, stops and starts were well timed and synchronised, congratulations to the band , I am sure they will go a long way , we were humoured to be Chief guests.

I guess I will have to pen off now, there is so much to say as there is so much happening in Brisbane, please read all the articles, until next Month, Happy reading —Umesh Chandra OAM Publisher Brisbane Indian Times

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Partner visas are generally processed in two stages in Australia. Sponsored applicants must hold a provisional visa, a Partner (Temporary) visa, in order to be granted a permanent visa, a Partner (Residence) visa. The grant of the provisional visa enables them to travel to and remain in Australia on a temporary basis. Following the grant of a temporary visa, a permanent visa may be granted where the decisionmaker is satisfied the relationship has been ongoing for at least 2 years and is genuine and continuing. In some circumstances, the Department of Immigration and Border Protection may grant a waiver for the 2 year waiting period, or grant permanency even where the relationship has broken down before the end of the 2 year period.

Generally a provisional partner visa takes up to 12 months to be processed.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022 — 3

World Expeditions: Valuable advice on travel to Bhutan

By Rama Gaind

It was Amelia Earhart, American aviation pioneer and writer, who said: “Adventure is worthwhile in itself.”

Journeys that not only leave big impressions but small footprints on the people and places we visit, are few and far between. If active and adventurous travel is what you seek, then leading Himalayan travel specialist, World Expeditions, has some reliable guidance.

In fact, it’s advising wouldbe travellers to Bhutan to book now to avoid big price hikes in 2023.

The Bhutanese Government has announced it will introduce a new Sustainable Development Fee in 2023, which will triple the daily rate payable by foreign visitors, who will pay US$200 per day, rather than the current US$65 per day per visitor charge.

According to World Expeditions CEO Sue Badyari, the US$135 per person per day increase will have a huge impact on costs of travel to Bhutan.

“One of our most challenging but popular treks in Bhutan is the 27-day Bhutan Snowman Trek and the Government-imposed price rise means that the cost of this trip will increase

by US$3,645 ― or roughly A$5,500 per person.”

“The Snowman Trek ranks amongst the very finest anywhere in the Himalaya

The ultimate traverse along Bhutan’s mountainous backbone, just one of the many holiday packages on offer from World Expeditions.

One of our most challenging but popular treks in Bhutan is the 27-day Bhutan Snowman Trek and the Governmentimposed price rise means that the cost of this trip will increase

by US$3,645 ― or roughly A$5,500 per person.

Go on a Bhutan Snowman Trek, an adventure package from World Expeditions. but, if the price rise goes ahead, clients will be paying almost $17,000, rather than the current cost of A$11,190.

Increasing the price of a trek by almost 50% will have huge impact on the future of Bhutan’s tourism industry.”

Potential impact “On top of two years of COVID shutdown, we are very worried about the potential impact for the livelihoods of our colleagues in Bhutan.”

“The good news is that our 2022 trip dates are locked in and there are still a limited number of places available to join our published dates before the price increase is implemented,” Ms Badyari said.

“With no need to quarantine on arrival, we strongly advise anyone considering travelling to Bhutan to seize the day and travel in 2022 to avoid paying the new fees.” Ms Badyari

said most of their clients travelling to Bhutan were in the country for between three-to-four-weeks, during which time they engaged deeply with the community, which stimulated the economy, providing jobs and a source of income to remote communities.

“We’ve asked the Bhutanese Government to consider a scaled increase for those spending longer than a week in the country,

as the proposed increase will be a huge barrier for many people travelling,” she said.

“We’d find it very worrying indeed if these new fees stopped people travelling to the country.”

In addition to exploratory expedition-style treks, World Expeditions’ Bhutan range includes cultural itineraries, such as the Bhutan Explorer and the Bumthang's Jambay Lakhang festival and the Bhutan Explorer & Paro

Tshechu Festival, both crafted to coincide with festivals that reveal Bhutan’s cultural richness, and the 11-day Bhutan Dragon Kingdom, which combines an exceptional trek along the Druk Trail between Thimpu and Paro, with an indepth exploration of some of Bhutan’s cultural highlights.

“Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one's courage.”

Travel is my therapy, what’s yours? Surely, it’s better to see something once than hear about it a thousand times?

GOOD AND BAD HABIT

Pastor Suresh Dass Joseph josephdass@optusnet.com.au

Dear reader it is with great joy we bring to you the word of God. I want to talk about habits that are not good for you, habits that can keep you from your very best.

Eating excessive food can keep us from a healthy lifestyle. Often, we must deal with habits of being disorganised, driving too fast, or watching too much television.

Studies show that ninety percent of our everyday behaviour is based on our habits.

That means how we treat people, how we spend our money, and what we watch depends on our habits. We form habits, and then habits will form us.

In the bible, we read about Samson, who was chosen to be a Judge in Israel. Before his birth, his parents were told not to cut his hair; he was not to touch unclean things and to keep away from toxic drinks. But as he grew, Samson formed the habit of being disobedient to his parents, taking toxic drinks, eating unclean food, and chasing after women. These bad habits led to his downfall, even losing his life.

A bad habit is like a lousy tenant renting in your house.

In the beginning, they look fine and tick all the boxes to do the right thing, but over time, they

4 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022

damage the walls, throw rubbish in the yard and keep the lawns untidy. Sometimes, an eviction notice is the last resort to remove the tenant from the premises.

In the scriptures (Luke 19 v 1-10), we read Jesus’ encounter with Zacchaeus as He passed through Jericho. Zacchaeus means innocent, but by the time we read this passage, he has formed some bad habits, as a tax collector for the Roman Government, of compromising and overcharging people and pocketing enormous profits.

Perhaps at one time, he wanted to be a good neighbour and a role model for kids, but now he had lost his aim in life and was hated by all his countryman.

Zacchaeus wanted to see who Jesus was, so he climbed a tree. Jesus came to the place; he looked up and said, “Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for I

must stay at your house today.”

He received Jesus joyfully. Then Zacchaeus said, “Lord, Lord, I give half of my goods to the poor, and if I have taken anything from anyone by false accusation, I restore four-fold.”

Like Zacchaeus, we can all form habits we want to come out of.

Here are 3 lessons we can learn from Zacchaeus.

1- You can have a bad habit, but that is not who you are. You will feel a new power, energy, and strength when you accept that you are a good person trapped in a bad habit. The crowd complained that Jesus had gone to be with a bad man, a sinner.

But Zacchaeus won’t buy into any of those. The moment he realised and agreed that he was a good person trapped in a bad habit, he made room in himself

for God to help him get delivered from the habit. The crowd yelled, complained, and shouted. They were saying how bad he was, but Zacchaeus saw how good he was. They knew what he had done but didn’t know who he was. When Zacchaeus realised he was a good person trapped in some bad habit, he realised that he could free himself from those habits holding him from his destiny.

2- You may have formed a bad habit, but it is worth the recovery.

Zacchaeus had to climb a tree to see Jesus. He was trapped in a situation. Like Zacchaeus, you too can be trapped with the old way of thinking, “I cannot break this habit; I have been trying this for a long time; it is too late for me now.” But instead of giving up, he climbed the tree to have a better view. He kept lifting himself while fighting off a bad habit. He kept

reminding himself that he could change. To break a bad habit, you will need a new perspective that it is worth the recovery. Instead of doubting, he demonstrated faith and received Jesus joyfully into his house.

3- Every habit that you stop feeding will not grow. The best way to eliminate bad habits is by forming some good ones.

Zacchaeus didn’t give up the practice of overcharging people immediately. Still, he was going to give half of his money to the poor and return four times the money he had taken from people by false accusation. He knew that the more good he did, the fewer opportunities he would get to do the bad. A good habit is always more powerful than a bad habit.

Once you make an effort to feed and form good habits, the bad habits will begin to shrink and disappear. God bless you.

YOUR FRIENDLY FAMILY LAWYER helping you make the right choices

1 300 267 637 पैलिएलिव दे खभाि, जीवन को सीलित करने वािे रोग के साथ जी रहे िोगों को हो सके उतने लदन, लजतना संभव हो उतना अच्ी तरह से जीने िें सहायता करने के बारे िें है । पैलिएलिव दे खभाि लिसिे लिए होती है ? यह लकसी भी आयु वािे हर व्यक्ति (लि​िुओं से िेकर वृद्ों तक) के लिए होती है लजसे जीवन को सीलित करने वािा रोग होने की पुलटि हुई है । पैलिएलिव दे खभाि िें रोग के िक्षणों और रोग से जुड़ी सिस्ाओं की पहचान और लनदान लकया जाता है जो लक िारीररक, भावनात्मक, आध्ाक्त्मक या सािालजक हो सकते हैं ।

पैलिएलिव दे खभाि से सहायता िब लि​िती है ? कुछ िोगों के लिए, पैलिएलिव दे खभाि रोग का पता िगने के सिय से ही फायदे िंद हो सकती है। यह दे खभाि अन्य ईिाजों के साथ (उदाहरण के लिए केंसर के लिए लकए जाने वािे ईिाज जैसे लक सज्जरी, कीिोथैरेपी और रे लियेिन) या इन ईिाजों के ख़त्म हो जाने के बाद प्रदान की जा सकती है। कुछ िोग लकसी बीिारी के लवलभन्न चरणों िें पैलिएलिव दे खभाि चािू या बंद करते रहते हैं। िुरूआती सिय िें ही पैलिएलिव दे खभाि प्राप्त करना िुरु कर दे ने से, लकसी व्यक्ति की दे खभाि करने के लिए उस व्यक्ति की िान्यताओं, धारणाओं और उद्े श्ों को जानने और उनका सम्ान हो यह सुलनलचित करने िें सहायता लि​िती है। जब कोई व्यक्ति अपने जीवन के अंलति लदनों िें होता है तो पैलिएलिव दे खभाि केवि एक प्रदान की जाने वािे दे खभाि ही नहीं बक्कि उससे कहीं ज़्ादा होती है। यह जीवन को सीलित करने वािे रोग के साथ जी रहे िोगों के जीवन की गुणवत्ा और उन्हें हो सके उतने लदन, लजतना संभव हो उतना अच्ी तरह से जीने िें सहायता करने के बारे िें है।

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Devotion versus Addiction - Sadhguru, Isha Foundation Addiction is usually to substances. Devotion is towards something that you hold way above yourself. Devotion cannot be practiced. It cannot be cultivated or cultured.

When you are overwhelmed by something or someone, when you see something or someone as far beyond yourself, devotion naturally happens.

Addiction happens because you taste something and you like the experience of it. The more you taste, the more hooked and trapped you are.

Interestingly, a devotee looks more than an addict than an addict himself. An addict can hide his addiction but a devotee cannot hide his devotion. Even a drug addict has a certain degree of control over himself. If he has sufficient control, he can look very normal and deceive the whole world. But a devotee is not capable of such deception or pretence. He just bursts forth anywhere; he cannot hide it.

A similarity between the two is that both devotion and addiction can create a certain pleasant or ecstatic experience within a person – and in the case of addiction, this pleasant experience is strong. For example, you would never get addicted to something that tastes bitter. You have to eat it

Spending your time in utter intelligence or in complete turmoil with all sorts of problems which has no relevance to the ultimate reality? A devotee is very intelligent because he has understood the fact that if you spend all your time in complete pleasantness, nothing entangles you.

consciously. You have to think every time you eat it: “Should I do it?” People get addicted to tobacco, coffee, alcohol and various kinds of drugs because they is create a pleasant experience.

Devotion means your emotions have become very sweet. The ways of a devotee may look utterly silly, illogical and stupid

6 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022

for a thinking person, but a devotee is very intelligent.

Think about this: you have 24 hours in a day to spend the way you want.

What would you consider intelligent? Spending your time in utter intelligence or in complete turmoil with all sorts of problems which has no relevance to the ultimate reality? A devotee is very

intelligent because he has understood the fact that if you spend all your time in complete pleasantness, nothing entangles you.

There is no pain. It may not seem logical. Dissected and analyzed, it does not make sense. The concept may look silly for an intellectual person, but there is a very deep life sense involved in

a devotee’s attitude towards living. The historical fact remains that more people have attained to the ultimate through devotion than any other way.

Devotion causes ecstasy.

Not like the lumps of chemicals that are labeled “ecstasy”; such pills just get you on a high for a while and dump you in such a

bad way, they ruin you completely in the process.

They shrink your physical capabilities and mental capabilities. Devotion on the other hand hugely enhances you. Imagine a pill which you could pop to be permanently ecstatic – great, isn’t it!

Ranked amongst the fifty most influential people in India, Sadhguru is a yogi, mystic, visionary and bestselling author. Sadhguru has been conferred the "Padma Vibhushan", India’s highest annual civilian award, by the Government of India in 2017, for exceptional and distinguished service.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022 — 7

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022 — 9

Multicultural Queensland Month finishes with awards and celebration David Crisafulli, leader of the opposition and shadow Minister for the Olympics, organized an awards event at Parliament House to celebrate Multicultural Queensland Month.

David Crisafulli said, “The success of multiculturalism is reflected in our society and communities.

Queenslanders speak more than 180 languages, hold more than 110 religious’ beliefs, and come from more than 220 countries and territories.

Undoubtedly, our diverse cultural communities have significantly contributed to this state's prosperity.

Innovative and hardworking migrants continue to shape our communities and ensure the success of Queensland’s business and social landscape”.

In recognition of their contribution, Shadow Minister John-Paul

Langbroek MP and leader of opposition invited leaders of multicultural communities and the consular corps to the 2022 Parliamentary Multicultural Affairs Forum and Drinks function at Parliament House.

Various community organizations and distinguished representatives of the Consular Corp were presented with certificates of appreciation for their valuable contributions.

Serena Denis becomes New President, Lions Club of Brisbane United Asia Business inc

BRISBANE Lions Club of Brisbane United Asia Business Inc. (UALIONS)held a fundraising night to support the Australian Childhood Cancer Foundation 2022 for their presidential changeover.

Serena Denis, the incoming president, said, “On behalf of UALIONS, I want to thank you for helping us make a positive difference last night. Your fantastic support encourages us to do more to bring smiles to people who need our help. Thanks again for your generosity and support.

Special thanks to our musicians who performed for our UA Lions fundraising night for making it such a fun and relaxing evening.

Also, I would like to say thank you to my fantastic team. This event would not have been as successful without your involvement and generosity with your time”.

The black-tie gala dinner was held in style at Brisbane Hilton and was attended by many community leaders, fellow lions, and politicians.

Serena Denis, the incoming president, said, “On behalf of UALIONS, I want to thank you for helping us make a positive difference last night. Your fantastic support encourages us to do more to bring smiles to people who need our help.

Bollywood returns to Banyo in 2022 Residents from Brisbane’s northern suburbs are again being invited to celebrate the area’s rich cultural diversity at the annual Diwali celebrations on October 15 at 2pm.

Event Organiser Devinder Bains said this

colourful multicultural event was happening this year thanks to the sponsorship from the Brisbane City Council as a community festival and cultural event.

“We are planning for more than 800 people to converge on Banyo

10 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022

Memorial Park to experience the charms of Indian food, music and culture this year,” Devinder said.

“Our local community is proud that this is an inclusive event and preparations are already well underway.

“Event organisers are determined to make this a friendly and COVID safe event.”

Diwali – also known as the Festival of Lights – is an ancient festival celebrated across India in autumn every year.

The festival celebrates

the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, good over evil, and hope over despair.

This year’s free afternoon experience will feature Indian entertainment, music and dancing, Indian food, sweets, and a jumping castle for the kids.

Long-time and new Banyo district residents are all invited to attend and celebrate this ancient calendar festival and enjoy their own community’s multiculturalism.

For more information contact Devinder Bains 0423 875537.

Call: (07) 3192 5188

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022 — 11

Sri Krishan Janam Ashtami Gayatri Mandir, Boondall

By Dharmesh Prasad Jai Sri Krishna Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated to mark the birth of Lord Krishna. He is believed to be the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu who is revered both in India and in diaspora communities. Lord Krishna is most commonly known as the blue-hued god; colour symbolises the deep and profoundness of Lord Krishna.

Hindu Society of Qld celebrated Ashtami from 13th of August to 19th August at Gayatri Mandir in

Boondall. It was heartening to see devotees turn up every evening in huge numbers. It is a reflection and measure of devotion and bhakti. The Committee makes every effort from decorating the temple precinct, cooking, cleaning and creating a space for the devotees to dip in the river of knowledge, pravachan – Shrimad Bhagavata Puran.

It was beautiful scene to see two brothers Pujanye Pundit Suresh Shandil and Pujanye Pundit Brijesh Maharaj expound the Shrimad Bhagavata Puran, display of brotherly love in the

true tradition of bhakti and respect is an extension of the natural affection associated with near kin, towards the greater community and fellow devotees. Brotherly love is the love for fellow beings and is a special virtue.

Both learned Pundits spoke on one of the many central theme of Shrimad Bhagavat Puran, “samundra manthan” churning the ocean of Lila, it is worth reflecting for a moment on the essence of churning of ocean is an proper metaphor for the practise of reading a sacred text, like an ocean

HINDU SOCIETY OF QLD INC NOTICE OF AGM MEETING To all members Notice is hereby given that the Annual General meeting of the Hindu Society of Queensland Inc. will be held at Gayatri mandir at 178 Lyndhurst Street Boondall Qld 4034 on Sunday 18 September 2022 at 10.am.

AGENDA 1. Welcome by Chair 2. Presidents Report 3. 2022 Financials/Accounts report 4. Election of office bearers for 2022-23 5. Appointment of Auditor 6. General business Members or person who wish to nominate a name for a position on the management committee may do so by filing nominations in nomination form for the position. Nomination and proxy forms for the meeting can be obtained by contacting the Secretary on email, nimshandil@gmail.com or gayatrimandirqld@gmail.com, or alternatively download the forms from the Hindu Society of Qld Inc. website.

This notice is given pursuant to the Rule 24(4) of the Constitution.

Dated the 21st day of August 2022 Sgd Nirmala Shandil ------------------------------------

Secretary Hindu Society of Qld Inc. 12 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022

Shrimad Bhagavata Puran is celebrated for being endless in meaning, as gods and demons repeatedly churned the waters to extract nectar , so the listener/reader is encouraged to repeatedly “churn” Bhagavata in order to drink the nectar of Lila relieving the troubles of the material world. It is said the Bhagavata is the Ripe fruit of the Vedic tree, mixed with ambrosia from Skua’s mouth.

Krishna means pure Consciousness or Chaitanya, in Jñāna yoga, also known as jñāna mārga, is one of the three classical paths for moksha, which emphasizes the "path of knowledge", also known as the "path of self-realization". There are three attributes or guun of God described mainly in monotheism terms which are omnipresent (allpervading), omniscience(allknowing) and omnipotent (all-powerful). These are all happening on the level of the mind; therefore, lord Krishna permeates in us in the form of consciousness or Chaitanya.

The Shrimad Bhagavat Puran traditionally said to have 18,000 verse couplets, is a Vaishnava purana that give prominence to Krishna, the blue-hued deity whose playful and heroic activities predominate in book 10.

The word “bhagavata”

means, related to blessed lord, referring primarily to devotees of Krishna.

According to Sage Ved Vyas Maharaji,” Bhagavat sees itself as the ripe fruit of Vedic revelation, whose ambrosial juice can be relished only by those who are refined in taste and sensibility, but which anyone can learn to appreciate by diligently hearing or reading this purana”.

Indeed, the Bhagavat Puran begins with a story of human weakness, Raja Pariksit – who has only seven days to live. The king is travelling in the forest and became desperately thirsty, when he asked a sage for water, he received no response, for the sage was absorbed in deep meditation.

In a flash of anger, Raja Pariksit placed a dead snake around the sage’s neck and left. When sage’s son came home and saw the insult, he cursed the king to die in seven days. The king was not evil, only weak, and yet weakness has its price. Raja Pariksit made the best of it by using his remaining days to listen to the sacred Bhagavata from the wandering sage Suka.

After listening to the sacred Bhagavata Raja Pariksit is able identify himself as a spiritual seeker/aspirant who stumble and fall, but then

picks himself up and keep going-by the grace of God. The Committee is making concerted effort to provide space and enhance devotees to embark on the spiritual journey hence Trayodashi and Akhand Sundarkand is held every month in addition to the annual events the society hosts. We are humbled and blessed to see number of devotees continue to increase pre-covid levels.

Hindu Society of Queensland has embarked on a database project, many devotees have moved and have new details as such we are updating membership details like mobile phone numbers, email address etc. This would assist us to communicate better and update members on latest developments at the mandir, please contact Secretary Mrs Nirmala Shandil on 0466 436 964 or Asst Secretary Mrs Neelima Chand on 0405 409 156 or alternatively email us at gayatrimandirqld@gmail. com. Many Thanks for your support.

Please visit our new website www.hindusocietyqld.org. au , our email address is gayatrimandirqld@gmail. com. We have a feedback and contact us page, feel free to provide us feedback and we will be happy to oblige.

Upcoming Events 11th to 26th Sept - Pitr Paksh 24th Sept – Trayodashi - programs begins at 6.00pm with pooja followed by Prasad and Mahaprasad 27 Sept to 4th October 22 – Navratri – Durga Naomi - program begins at 5.45pm daily pooja and followed by Pravachan, Prasad and Mahaprasad Sundarkand and Trayodashi is held every month at the mandir, for details and sponsorship please kindly visit our website and Facebook page. Regular updates will be sent to all devotees via Facebook and text messages.

Stay Connected with Hindu Society of Queensland W: www.hindusocietyqld.org.au F: Hindu Society of Qld’s Gayatri Mandir and email us on gayatrimandirqld@gmail.com Phone: (07) 3865 3164 Address: 178 Lyndhurst Rd, Boondall QLD

Call: (07) 3192 5188

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022 — 13

Housing downturn accelerates as falling values become more widespread

CoreLogic’s national Home Value Index (HVI) recorded a fourth consecutive month of decline in August, with the downturn accelerating and becoming more geographically broadbased. Down -1.6% over the month, the national index recorded the largest monthon-month decline since 1983.

Every capital city apart from Darwin is now in a housing downturn, with a similar scenario playing out across the rest-of-state regions, where only regional South Australia recorded an increase in housing values for the month.

Sydney continued to the lead the downswing, with values falling -2.3% over the month, however weaker conditions in Brisbane accelerated sharply through August, with values falling -1.8%.

CoreLogic’s research director, Tim Lawless, said Brisbane’s shift into decline had been acute after almost two years of sustained growth due to record high internal migration and relative affordability.

“It was only two months ago that the Brisbane housing market peaked after recording a 42.7% boom in values. Over the past two months, the market has reversed sharply with values down -1.8% in August after a -0.8% drop in July,” Mr Lawless said.

After recording significantly stronger appreciation through the upswing, the fall in regional dwelling values is catching up with the capital cities.

Regional home values were down -1.5% in August compared with a -1.6% fall in values across the combined capitals. Between March 2020 and January 2022 regional dwelling values surged more than 40% compared with a 25.5% rise for the combined capitals.

“The largest falls in regional home values are emanating from the commutable lifestyle hubs where housing values had surged prior to the recent rate hikes,” Mr Lawless said.

“Over the past three months, values are down -8.0%

across the Richmond-Tweed, -4.8% across the Southern Highlands-Shoalhaven market and -4.5% across Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. “ Across the 41 regional SA4 sub-regions analysed, only seven areas recorded a rise in housing values in August including the northern suburbs of Adelaide (0.9%), Perth’s North East and Mandurah (0.6% / 0.5%) and the Coffs Harbour-Grafton region (0.6%).

The annual trend in housing values is rapidly levelling out. After moving through a peak annual growth rate of 21.3% in November last year, the annual growth rate across the combined capitals has eased back to just 2.2%.

Values across Sydney (-2.5%) and Melbourne (-2.1%) are now below the level recorded this time last year.

Despite the recent weakness, housing values across most regions remain well above pre-COVID levels. Home values in all capital cities and rest-ofstate regions, bar Melbourne, remain 15% or above the levels recorded in March 2020, implying most home owners have a significant equity buffer before their home is likely to be worth less than what they paid.

“A 15% peak to trough decline would roughly take CoreLogic’s combined capitals index back to March 2021 levels,” Mr Lawless said.

“Additionally, many home owners would have had at least a 10% deposit and paid down a portion of their principal, the risk of widespread negative equity remains low.”

Mr Lawless expects the downturn will continue to play out through the remainder of the year, and possibly into 2023.

“It’s hard to see housing prices stabilising until interest rates find a ceiling and consumer sentiment starts to improve,” he said.

“From current levels, interest rates are likely to increase by at least another 75 basis points and there is a good chance advertised stock levels will accumulate

14 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022

through the spring selling season, providing more choice for buyers and adding further downwards pressure on housing values.”

The trend in freshly advertised housing stock being added to the capital city markets was 13.4% higher than a year ago and 6.5% above the previous five-year average over the four weeks ending 28 August.

“Despite the downwards trend in new listings through the colder months, the total number of capital city homes advertised for sale held reasonably firm, and there are currently 11.3% more homes available for sale compared to this time last year,” Mr Lawless said.

“Sydney and Melbourne, where the housing downturn is more advanced, are already seeing total advertised stock rise to above average levels and there is a good chance the other capitals will follow suit as listings rise through spring and demand continues to taper.”

Higher advertised stock levels are mostly the result of less housing demand rather than a rise in the number of new listings being added to the market. Nationally, CoreLogic estimates the number of home sales over the three months to August was -14.8% below the same period a year ago, but larger declines were evident across some cities including Sydney (-35.4%), Canberra (-18.9%) and Melbourne (-16.5%).

“Between winter and spring we typically see a 22% rise in the number of new capital city listings based on the preCOVID five-year average. The flow of new listings this spring season may not be quite as active with the housing downturn dissuading some prospective vendors, but we are likely to see more listings added to the market than in winter,” Mr Lawless said.

“At the same time we are expecting to see less buying activity as higher interest rates and low sentiment continue to weigh on demand. Should this scenario play out, the net result will be an accumulation of advertised supply that could further weigh down values.”

Buyers flee from property as interest rate hikes and stamp duty fees hinder the sector The Real Estate Institute of Australia (REIA) President, Mr Hayden Groves said the latest figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics show that both owner occupiers and investors are shying away from the property sector as interest rate rises and high costs associated with buying hinder the market.

According to the latest ABS lending statistics, the value of new loan commitments for housing fell 8.5 per cent to $28.4 billion in July 2022 (seasonally adjusted) after a fall of 4.4 per cent in June,

according to data released today from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).

"The value of new owneroccupier loan commitments fell 7.0 per cent in July 2022, while new investor loan commitments fell 11.2 per cent. "Still, owner occupier loans in July 2022 were 40 per cent higher than February 2020, while investor loans were 78 per cent higher."

Mr Groves said that rising inflation and housing affordability have become key issues adding that state and federal governments

need to prioritise this before the situation worsens.

"The ABS figures coincide with CoreLogic's latest data which shows their home value index dropped 1.6 per cent in August, the biggest national monthly decline since 1983."

CoreLogic's data shows falls across all capital cities, except for Darwin, which recorded a 0.9 per cent rise in August.

Mr Groves said property ownership and investment has become increasingly challenging for many Australians.

REIA LAUNCHES CAMPAIGN TO AXE STAMP DUTY The Real Estate Institute of Australia (REIA) President, Mr Hayden Groves has today launched a new national and multi-year campaign with a clear objective: the phase out of stamp duty.

Mr Groves said that as Australia moves through the current economic and real estate cycle, there is no area of reform that will have greater benefits than the phase out of stamp duty.

"With cost-of-living pressures mounting, stamp duty remains a major hurdle to first home buyers, those wanting to move around the country or invest in muchneeded rental supply.

"In a time when housing supply presents such an immense challenge, the removal of stamp duty could increase sales and rental listings by up to 50% within existing housing stock."

Mr Groves said that

With cost-of-living pressures mounting, stamp duty remains a major hurdle to first home buyers, those wanting to move around the country or invest in muchneeded rental supply. the removal of stamp duty, which was promised and not delivered with the introduction of a GST in 2000, would kickstart the economy, improve affordability and supply, and open opportunities for all Australians.

"There is almost universal agreement that stamp duty is an inefficient, unfair tax that stifles labour mobility and penalises those seeking to move to areas where better employment, educational or lifestyle opportunities exist.

"First home buyers seeking to buy established homes

are forced to delay buying decisions to save for stamp duty.

"Stamp Duty adds about four per cent to the median house price of a home and adds on average $30,000 to the typical property purchased in Australia.

"Both directly and indirectly, stamp duty is contributing to property supply in Australia being critically low and impacting housing and rental affordability in every state and territory."

Mr Groves said that stamp duty reform would require the will and collaboration of many across Australia's Federation, and Axe the Tax aims to start a proper conversation on a national level.

REIA has also launched a new website and policy paper The Case for Change: Stamp Duty Phase Out.

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Life on Brookwater’s Dress Circle is close to everything you need — public transport, schools, childcare centres, a university, a private hospital, shopping centres and a thriving commercial precinct. We welcome you to experience Brisbane’s best kept secret when it comes to luxury living, and choose from our leading architectural collaborators to design your dream home — complimentary with your Dress Circle land purchase.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022 — 15

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022 — 19

Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland Yogeshwar Shri Krishn Chandra Ji

Samaj Havan Yajna Satsang at Queensland Vedic Cultural Centre

characteristics, deeds, nature and conduct was like AAPT – (noble, highly learned and religious seers) persons. Come, let us celebrate the birthday of the Gem of Aryas, Shri Krishn Chandra Ji Maharaj as adopting true directions/ guidelines from his supreme brighter character ओ३म ्

King of Yogis Yogeshwar Shri Krishn Chandra Ji Maharaj was highly talented personality. He was super human with many fold characteristics of being a scholar of Vedas, worshiper of GOD, observing celibacy, powerful, good political qualities, experienced speaker, religious and spiritual person. Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati revealed the facts about Yogeshwar Shri Krishn Js brighter and unblemished character in his immortal text “Satyarth Prakash – Light of Truth” writes - “Look the life (history) of Shri Krishan Ji is supreme in Mahabharata. His

योगेश्वर श्री कृष्ण चन्द्र जी श्री कृ ष्ण योगेश्वर थे, महात्मा थे, महावीर, धर्मात्मा थे। वह वेदभक्त, ईश्वरभक्त, दे शभक्त, ऋषियो व योगियों के अनुगामी थे। पूज्यों की पूजा व अपूज्यों की अवहे लना व उपेक्षा के साथ उनको दण्डित करते थे। योगेश्वर श्री कृ ष्ण जन्म पर्व पर हमें यह जानना चाहिये कि श्री कृ ष्ण जी वेद भक्त व उसके अनुयायी थे। उनका कोई सिद्धान्त, मान्यता व कार्य वेद विरुद्ध नहीं था। वह ईश्वर के भक्त व उपासक थे और इसी कारण वह योगेश्वर कहलाये। जन्म लेने, सुख-दःु ख का भोग करने से ,वेद के अनुसार कर्म करने से व मृत्यु को प्राप्त होने के कारण वह श्रेष्ठ जीवात्मा थे, महात्मा, योगेश्वर ,महावीर, धर्मात्मा कहलाये । हमें योगेश्वर श्री कृ ष्ण जी के वैदिक स्वरुप व शिक्षाओं को ही मानना चाहिये ।ओ३म ्

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 ्

RET'D JUSTICE PANDIT DEVENDRA PATHIK 'ARYA RTN' 'Order Of Fiji' 92nd Patron APSQ Inc BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS रिटायर्ड जस्टिस पंडित दे वेंद्र पथिक जी ‘आर्य रत्न’ ‘आर्डर ऑफ़ फिजी’ 92nd वां महत्वपर्ण ू जन्मदिन समारोह बड़ी उपलब्धि

Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland Inc members ,friends and family members celebrated a significant milestone 92nd Birthday festivities . Experiencing life for more then nine decades

means that respected Mr.Pathik Ji has seen and experienced a lot in his lifetime.

Congratulations Very Happy birthday to one of the most incredible, most inspirational, most captivating 92 year old.

You’ve gathered lifetime of memories and may life’s brightest joys continue to illuminate your path, and may each day’s journey bring you closer to Almighty GOD. Warmest wishes to you on your very special day.

We hope that you continue to change the lives of others with your positivity, love, and beautiful character. On your 92nd birthday, may you only know much joy, peace ,love and excellent health that comes with a life well lived.

Planting a tree for

20 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022

ones birthday is a unique and memorable way of celebrating the special day. Birthdays are always special and Mr.Pathiks birthday celebrations was made even extra special by

doing something unique by planting a mango tree kindly donated by Pandit Kamlesh Arya Ji of Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji.

Compliments and nice feedback received from

the participants who really enjoyed the enriching Havan Yajn Birthday Satsang program -Vedic Dharam prachaar with VED mantras being chanted, heart touching comforting

Vedic bhajans and thought provoking ,motivating Vedic discourses/pravachans.

Yajmaan Pathik family had made superb arrangements for delicious, refreshments/ mishtaan and flavoursome dinner for all present.

All members and friends are sending their very best wishes that’s wrapped up with all our love and we hope you enjoy many more beautiful years ahead of you. We wish you tremendous love, luck, and laughter may distinguished Devendra Pathik Ji only know the joy, peace and excellent health that comes with a life well lived. हार्दि क शुभकामनायें , बहुत बहुत बधाई जी ओ३म ् ईश्वर की कृ पा आप सभी पर सदै व बनी रहे ओ३म ्

Wednesday 5th October

Mon 26th Sept to Tues 4th Oct Daily recitation 6am to 7.45am

6.30pm to 7.30pm

Vedanta Centre Brisbane Chapter

96 Vedanta Drive (behind 2 Poppy Crescent) Springfield Lakes QLD 4300 Call: (07) 3192 5188

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022 — 21

PART 3-RABUKA V/S BAINIMARAMA: IS FIJI IN GOOD HANDS? HOW LANDS MINISTER ASHNEEL SUDHAKAR WAS “SACKED.”

Thakur Ranjit Singh, FIJI PUNDIT A Summary of Parts 1 and 2: I gave reasons as to why, after being an ardent supporter of Bainimarama, I started supporting Rabuka, who I saw as a reformed man after he repented his sins of 1987.

Now he has matured, apologized and is a changed man who seems to be a distant shadow of his young 1987 soldier who blindly heeded calls of his Chiefs. Now he seems to listen to his conscience, is in control of himself and not a puppet of somebody else.

Fiji now needs him to rescue what is left of it.

On the other hand, Bainimarama was seen as good man until he was manipulated and badly influenced by somebody else. It would appear Bainimarama has abdicated his position of PM to the Attorney General (AG), who reportedly had adulterated and abused most of Fiji’s institutions - he can use and abuse them to achieve anything. Good governance and respect for the once august institutions have gone down the rabbit hole, Fiji has gone to the dogs, and needs rescuing. After reading Part 3, you will have to decide whether Fiji is ruled by respected leaders or bullying thugs, and why we need a change. We continue with the justification to rescue Fiji from this rot in Part 3.

Part 3 We mentioned trolls of Fiji First Government and Party. Reportedly this is run by Vatis whose director is reported to be Arnold Chanel. The other prominent shareholder of Vatis is reportedly Damian Whippy. I am not sure which one is Max Ram - he appears to be one of them or another close relative of those in power.

It also seems Fiji First has learnt from James Bond movies and call on honey-traps, the women who lure and “hook” their targets. The “enemies “are framed on sexual

harassment cases as a way to remove them from the way or convict them.

This is where, as in Bond movies, easy-going, easily-led and submissive questionable females are used to “hook”, falsely frame and distract the victims, until his demise. Are Ashneel Sudhakar and a prominent respected business executive victims of this?

Please read below: ENEMY 1 – Ashneel Sudhakar, former Lands Minister– “Honey Trap” 1 - the Pakistani connection.

I am going to reveal the real reason why a Minister (Ashneel Sudhakar) was forced to resign, or rather sacked and a Senior Business Executive was wrongfully charged for indecently annoying a person through viber messages which was fabricated and had no substance which resulted in his acquittal in probably the fastest trial ever in Fijian history.

The Enemy 1, Ashneel Sudhakar’s story is that this was an orchestrated move to remove an honest Minister who was seen as an obstacle in the scheme of Fiji Government, a Minister in particular, from granting special favours in rewarding the Minister’s cronies by allocating some Nadi land in not such a legal manner, mostly to people of his own belief.

But the bigger reason was that the next Attorney General’s (AG) man, standing in the queue to be rewarded, was Faiyaz Koya who had already packed his bags at his land development office to shift in as a Fiji First MP even before “dismissal” of Sudhakar. I am reliably informed that his brother, Faizal Koya who was with NFP got 589 votes while Faiyaz of Fiji First got less than him at 585 votes. Hence it was important for AG to bully, intimidate and frame Sudhakar to “resign” which really was a dismissal over a framed-up matter, to make way for his friend.

The shocking reality, but not surprising is that the AG had him dismissed by Bainimarama from the Lands Minister’s post. Bai issued a dismissal letter. Khaiyum then forced Ashneel to resign from Fiji First Party very fittingly and appropriately, which suited his decorum and demeanour. He appears to have virtually stolen a script from a Bollywood movie, the dialogue of the villain or the bad fella, like Amjad Khan. Khaiyum mouths the dialogue of such a character from Bollywood, by reportedly threatening Sudhakar as a Gabbar Singh that "if you are

Ashneel Sudhakar, former Lands Minister in the Fiji First Government, who was unceremoniously forced to resign. arrested and detained then anything can happen to your mother who stays alone on the farm"...These reportedly were Khaiyum’ s exact words according to Sudhakar.

People of Fiji need to know the character of people running Fiji First.

I know Ashneel’ s mother for over five decades, she is my friend’s elder sister, and hence mine as well. She stays in my locality near Rarawai, Dam, Ba Fiji.

She is wife of a prominent teacher and stalwart of Arya Samaj and Fiji Labour Party in Ba. I implore people of Ba to get angry, and show some spine. The Arya Samaj and Sanatan should stop being politized by Fiji First, with Sangam, also joining as manservants of Fiji Government. People of our religion needs to develop some spine, selfrespect, if not for yourselves, then at least for those saints and sages who started your respective organisations.

Please stop it being used as a mistress of some politicians.

Will people of Ba stand idle to see their mothers, sisters and daughters being used as an item of blackmail and threat by those in Fiji Government Cabinet? Ashneel’s mother was subject of threat with harm if her son does not resign from Fiji First.

Therefore, Ashneel was forced to resign, to make way for Faiyaz Koya to be gifted that seat which gave him a subsequent Ministerial position on a platter by his friend. So, people of Fiji need to decide who is the bigger evil and who not to vote for.

And as in Bond and Bollywood movies, you need a woman on the side of the villain, and Bai needed a reason to sack Ashneel. Here, Khaiyum presented a Pakistani woman as the “bait”, reportedly well-connected with Koya, who has most to gain from

Jesus said “Arise and Shine…”

Jesus said “Arise and Shine…”

Key Verse:

The Glory of Zion “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you. See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the LORD rises upon you and his glory appears over you. Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn”.

- Isaiah 60:1-3 Dear Reader, On a cold winter morning, in a small town of south India; a seventh child was born to my parents. And a boy baby was born as the sun was rising to bring much needed warmth for many very souls. This is the true story of the this baby born

on Sunday morning at the Sunrise.

And my dad named this boy baby as Ravi, to remember the day and time of the birth. As I grew up, I was told this story to remind me the significance of my birth. Therefore this my story as a seventh child and the last child born to my parent.

22 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022

And I am excited to bring you the Good News of Great Joy. My theme is simple but very significant.

It is to make God real and personal.

That means to make God very Real Person. So you can learn to know His nature, char-acter and relate to Him with your heart and soul.

First we must understand that, God is not an object or an image or imagina-tion of human mind. God is a Living and Loving person. We find this amaz-ing truth and revelation in the pages of The Holy Bible. I grew with many false ideas about the Creation and a Great Creator.

Science subjects at school taught us we evolved from chemical soup that turned into life and into monkey.

Like most kids, I did challenge my teacher and this subject. But as I grew older, I was always curious to find the purpose for my life.

Questions such as: Who am I?

Faiyaz Koya, who came into Cabinet after Ashneel Sudhakar was “sacked” from Cabinet, and forced out of Parliament, to create a space for him in Parliament. He is a close friend of the Attorney General.

Ashneel’ s departure. This complaint of a framed-up sexual harassment case was never challenged or proven in a credible court of law. Surprise, surprise- she works for the law firm handling AG’s personal cases and which “inappropriately” has been gifted lucrative government cases.

In a wider context, this was use of “honey-trap” to make way for AG’s close friend, Faiyaz Koya, who was reportedly shoulder-tapped by AG to stand for Fiji First. Hence, he was obliged to reward him.

Another related issue here is that after unceremonious dumping of the Solicitor General, Sarvada Maharaj, and lack of qualified lawyers at that office, this same favoured law firm where the Pakistani complainant works, was given government jobs without any usual transparent tendering process. More light on Sudhakar case will be shed once it hits the Courts in Fiji which would substantiate what has been revealed here.

Shocked? Take a break and now let’s go to Enemy 2 and the second ‘honey -trap.”

Enemy 2 – A well-respected business executive – “Honey Trap” 2 the Fiji Indian-the Labasa connection (his name hidden on request, but you can guess) Reportedly, the second enemy of Faiyaz Koya and Ananth Reddy was the Chairman of Denarau Island, a well-respected business executive who held significant positions in the private sector. Reddy is reportedly owner of Denarau Waters and allegedly a Fiji First financial supporter, who also shared enmity

Where did I come from?

What is my purpose in life?

Surely there are no Science books that really give me a clear and definite an-swers to these important questions. Then I encountered God. And God is looking to encounter with you today. Keep reading with an open heart and humble spirit.

You will encounter your Creator today; by His wWord and His Spirit.

You don’t need a thousand years for your Salvation (Mukti). You can receive your greatest miracle ‘Mukti’ today. This is the confidence you can have in Christ alone.

This month we focus our theme on “Arise and Shine”. Isaiah was a 8th Cen-tury BC, Jewish Prophet. Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Isaiah wrote clear and astounding message of the future events; including the pre-cise details of birth and ministry of Jesus Christ. And Salvation of Human race through the Atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross.

Jesus calls all those who believe and follow His ways to “Arise and

Frank Bainimarama, PM of Fiji, Aiyaz Sayed Khaiyum, Attorney General, and Former Lands Minister, Ashneel Sudhakar, whom the other two forcefully removed from the position to make way for Faiyaz Koya. with Ashneel because the honest Lands Minister was an obstacle in his questionable land deals. This is when Koya turned to Aiyaz Khaiyum’ s aunty for assistance. Aiyaz’s aunt is running an accounting practice in a prominent building in the heart of the city. It is believed that her constantly not paying her landlord rent always resulted in demands and eviction notices. The representative of the landlord was the enemy number 2 of Koya and Ananth.

The plot and conspiracy of framing charges against the enemy number 2 widened where a major shareholder of Fiji Care got involved as this individual was evicted from a shareholding in a hospital business with the same landlord as Aiyaz’s aunty. The conspiracy resulted in the hiring of a former female employee of the hospital who was terminated for serious malpractice and unethical behaviour. The lady from Labasa was assured employment by the Fiji Care executive in exchange for making false accusations against enemy number 2.

Enemy 2 was apprehended in Nadi as he was leaving on his scheduled trips to New Zealand by the Police in the early hours of the morning. Charges were laid and the two magistrates that heard the case were appalled by the lack of merit, statute of limitations and generally the manner the case was handled.

Enemy 2’s case was acquitted. The Magistrate had given the prosecution a real ear-bashing and expressed her disappointment in the manner the matter was handled.

Enemy 2 is understood to have retired from his roles and migrated.

The irony of the matter is that reportedly the lady complainant is now an employee of the Fiji

Shine”. Because the Jesus has redeemed the fallen humanity from the darkness and sin. Christ is the Light of the world, and when someone welcomes Christ in-to their heart, they welcome a ‘Living Light’. The supreme purpose of ‘Light’ is to expel the darkness. The world we live in is a not a perfect and peaceful world. Just listen to any TV or Radio news, there is death and de-structions. This is filled with darkness and evil. But, when we learn to ‘Arise and Shine’ through the grace and truth of Christ we can enjoy the journey of purpose driven life.

Listen to a deep and gentle call of Jesus inside your heart today. He said I am the Light of the world. He did not say I am like a Light. He gives com-plete assurance and confidence to people searching in the darkness of their soul. His purpose is to lead all humanity to Truth and Life.

Therefore, ask yourself this question; Do I really know the Living Light?

Living Light is not a philosophy or an idea of human imagination or

Care executive and is also given a fully furnished rental apartment as a reward; certainly, a bundle of cash was part of the deal. AG was so annoyed that in Parliament he expressed his disappointment that the Executive got away! Aiyaz as the AG should be looking at the inhuman behaviour of the Police who wrongfully charged the Executive rather than behaving like a child who lost his marbles!

The irony of this is that anyone being charged is innocent until proven guilty. AG ranted away in a manner that the Executive was guilty when his own judiciary acquitted the Executive. In Hinduism it is widely believed that if you mess with the innocent Brahmans and God-fearing individuals, you pay a price. The Solicitor General, Sarvada Maharaj, the Senior Executive and the former late Solicitor General, Nainendra Nand are all God fearing and highly respected Brahmins. The PM and AG have come out of their ailments, and the curse of Brahmins could come true on the election night!

As they say, Karma is a bitch and will ultimately bite the ass. Fiji today is crying because people of questionable character seem to be in control of the paradise which we seem to have lost.

Cry beloved Fiji – the good Fiji people need to wipe off tears of the country by bringing in the change that Fiji deserves.

Please Vote for a change. I will.

See you in equally shocking, concluding PART 4 - coming shortly.

[About the Author: Thakur Ranjit Singh is former Publisher of Fiji’s Daily Post newspaper. He is a media commentator, a journalist and runs his blog, FIJI PUNDIT. E-mail: thakurjifj@ gmail.com ]

tradi-tional practices. What is one of the Best definition of Light? Light is a Per-son, and a Living and Loving Person. That Person is completely defined and perfectly expressed through the life and teaching of Jesus Christ. Today, take time to ask yourself a simple and a humble question; “I am truly travel-ling in the way of Living Light ?”. And find your answer in the words of Je-sus Himself; Jesus said, “I am the Light of the World”.

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

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: Monday 26th of Sept till Tuesday 4th of October 2022.

Time: Mon to Thurs 6:30pm onwards.

Friday, Saturday, Sunday - 4:00 to 8:00pm to8:00pm rd th Kanchika Poojan – Monday 3 & Tuesday 4 of October.

Mata Ki Chowki (4:00 to 8:00 pm) Fri Sept 30th, Sat Oct 1st & Sun Oct 2nd Chowki Sponsor - $ 500.00

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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, Dhiru Desai: 04062 13153 or The Temple 5548 6814

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022 — 23

Origin - Bhagat Singh was born on 28 September 1907, in a revolutionary family. His father Kishan Singh was a member of the Ghadar party and was jailed for alleged anti-British activities. His mother Vidyavati Kaur was a housewife.

Bhagat began his primary education at a primary school in his village. In 1916-17, his father moved to Lahore to organise relief work for victims of an earthquake in Kangra. Bhagat was shifted to the DAV High School Lahore.

In 1923, Bhagat Singh joined the National College, Lahore, which was affiliated with the Punjab Quami Vidyapeeth. Lala Lajpat Rai founded it in response to Mahatma Gandhi’s noncooperation movement.

The college was set up to provide an alternative to the institutions run by the government.

Bhagat Singh had an impressive academic record in the college.

He was also a member of the College Dramatics Society and was prominent amongst students and teachers of his own, as well as other nearby colleges. He was particularly notable for his youthful physique and commanding voice. He was fluent in Hindi, Gurumukhi, Urdu, English and Sanskrit.

He had read revolutionary books and admired progressive leaders.

By the age of sixteen, he was completely dedicated to the cause of national liberation. In 1924, he was being pushed by his father to get married. He was determined not to marry as he considered his chosen path full of adversities.

Two of his uncles had gone that way and both had left behind widows.

Unable to convince his father of his intention not to marry, he left his house in Lahore and arrived in Kanpur with a letter of introduction for Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi. In a note left behind for his father, he wrote, “My life had been dedicated to the noblest cause, the freedom of the country. Therefore, there is no rest or worldly desire that can lure me. I hope you will forgive me.”

In 1924 Bhagat Singh worked for Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi’s weekly newspaper called ‘Pratap’ in Kanpur. He worked under the alias, Balwant. There he met other young patriots who later became comrades in his activities. The same year, he became a member of the Hindustan Republican Association, HRA. Chandra Shekhar Azad was the main organiser of the HRA, and Bhagat Singh became very close to him.

Revolutionary - The HRA introduced the philosophy of armed struggle, which was understood to be the only weapon that could counter British domination.

Bhagat Singh visited villages in Uttar Pradesh recruiting people to the cause of Indian independence. He added the term Socialist in the name HRA making

it Hindustan Socialist Republican Association, HSRA. In 1925, Bhagat Singh returned to Lahore and within a year he and his colleagues started Naujawan Bharat Sabha. In April 1926, he established contact with Sohan Singh Josh and through him the Workers and Peasants’ party, which brought out a monthly magazine ‘Kirti’ in Punjabi. He joined the editorial board of Kirti.

In 1927, Bhagat Singh was arrested on charges of association with the

Shahid

Bhagat Singh

Bhagat Singh was a revolutionary freedom fighter. The British executed him after a sham trial for his involvement in the Lahore conspiracy case. He fought against the oppressive regime and sacrificed his life for the cause of Indian independence. accused of Kakori case, and for an article written under the pseudonym Virodhi, rebel. He was also accused of being responsible for a bomb explosion at Lahore during a Dasahara fair.

He was released for good behaviour, against a security of Rs 60,000, which was later waived.

Avenging brutality - In 1928, the British government sent Simon commission to India.

Gandhi called for a boycott of the commission at every stage and in every form. Bhagat Singh and his comrades decided to support Gandhi’s call, although he did not agree with Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence.

John Simon, the chairman of the committee, arrived in Lahore on 30th October. Protesters met him waving black flags.

Lala Lajpat Rai, a revered leader, led the protest.

Bhagat Singh rallied behind him. The superintendent of police, JA Scott ordered lathi charge on protesters and hit Lajpat Rai himself, till Lalaji fell down bleeding profusely.

Two weeks later, Lajpat Rai died on 17 November 1928.

Bhagat Singh had witnessed the action of the British officer and vowed to take revenge. He had visited the Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar when he was twelve years old and remembered the cruelty of British authorities.

He met other revolutionaries of HSRA at Durga Devi’s house and

24 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022

planned to kill the offending officer. Durga Devi was the wife of party’s ideologue, Bhagawati Charan Vohra, the author of HSRA’s manifesto.

He had gone to Kolkata to attend the Congress session.

Bhagat Singh, and Rajguru an HSRA activist were assigned the task to shoot the police officer Scott.

Chandra Shekhar Azad was to arrange their escape and Jai Gopal was to signal the arrival of the officer. The signal was wrongly given on the appearance of John Saunders, another police officer. He was shot dead while leaving the police headquarters.

Bhagat Singh and Rajguru came to Durga Devi’s house early next morning and planned their departure from Lahore to evade arrest by the police. Bhagat Singh was to travel in disguise with Durga Devi as her husband. Her three-yearold son would be their child.

Rajguru would act as their servant. Bhagat Singh was attired in European costume.

Durga Devi was dressed in expensive sari. Despite a severe checking regime at Lahore station, they boarded the train undetected and left Lahore.

They broke their journey in Kanpur for two days and then arrived in Kolkata. In Kolkata, Bhagat Singh met other revolutionaries. He left Kolkata for Agra, which was becoming a centre for revolutionaries.

All the revolutionaries who escaped from Punjab after Saunders’ murder had gathered in Agra. Bengali revolutionaries

joined them and taught them how to make bombs.

Protest – Two Bills were scheduled for discussion in the central legislative assembly in Delhi on 8 April 1929. The Bills were meant to smother resistance to British rule. The revolutionaries decided to express their protest in the assembly.

Bhagat Singh and Batukeshwar Dutt were chosen for the purpose. They entered the central legislative assembly unimpeded and threw bombs at the empty treasury benches. They were careful to ensure that there were no casualties in order to highlight the propagandist nature of their action. The rationale for the bombing was explained in a leaflet titled "To Make the Deaf Hear". This leaflet was also thrown in the assembly and was reproduced the next day in the Hindustan Times.

They made no attempt to escape and courted arrest while shouting slogans.

Their trial began in the first week of June, following a preliminary hearing in May. On 12 June, both men were sentenced to life imprisonment for causing explosions of a nature likely to endanger life, unlawfully and maliciously.

In early 1929, the HSRA had set up a bomb factory in Lahore. On 15 April 1929, the Lahore bomb factory was discovered by the police, leading to the arrest of other members of the HSRA. HSRA members Hans Raj Vohra and Jai Gopal became police informants. Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, Rajguru, and others

were charged with the Saunders’ murder. Bhagat Singh’s life sentence in the assembly bomb case was deferred until the Saunders case was decided.

Hunger strike - He was sent to central jail, Mianwali from Delhi jail. There he witnessed discrimination between European and Indian prisoners, as well as the apalling conditions for revolutionery prisoners. He led other Indian prisoners in a hunger strike. The hunger strike inspired a rise in public support for Bhagat Singh and his colleagues.

The government tried to break the strike, and attempted force-feeding the prisoners but this was resisted. Since the activities of the hunger strikers had gained popularity and attention amongst the people nationwide, the government decided to advance the start of the Saunders murder trial, which was called the Lahore conspiracy case.

Bhagat Singh was transported to Borstal Jail, Lahore, and the trial began there on 10 July 1929.

In addition to charging them with the murder of Saunders, Bhagat Singh and the 27 other prisoners were charged with plotting a conspiracy to murder Scott, and waging a war against the British rule. Bhagat Singh, still on hunger strike, had to be carried to the court handcuffed on a stretcher.

The condition of another hunger striker, Jatindra Nath Das, lodged in the same jail deteriorated and he died after 63 days of fasting on 13 September 1929. Almost all national leaders paid tribute to his death. Subhash Chandra Bose arranged for transport of his dead body to Kolkata.

Bhagat Singh finally ended his hunger strike on 5 October 1929 after 116 days, on an appeal from the Congress party, and a request from his father.

Bhagat Singh's attention now turned to his trial. The magistrate had ordered that all the accused should be handcuffed.

Bhagat Singh and others refused to be handcuffed and were subjected to brutal beatings.

The revolutionaries refused to attend the court. The magistrate ordered the trial to proceed without the accused.

Tribunal - The viceroy declared an emergency on 1 May 1930 and introduced an ordinance to set up a special tribunal to try the Lahore conspiracy case.

This decision cut short the normal process of justice as the only appeal after the tribunal was to the privy council located in England.

On 10 July 1930, the tribunal decided to press charges against only 15 of the 18 accused and allowed their petitions to be taken up for hearing the next day. The trial ended on 30 September 1930.

The tribunal would lapse on 31 October 1930 as it had not been passed by the central assembly or the British parliament.

On 7 October 1930, the tribunal delivered its 300-

page judgement concluding that the participation of Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Rajguru in Saunder's murder was proven. They were sentenced to death by hanging.

A defence committee was set up in Punjab to file an appeal to privy council against the sentence.

Bhagat Singh was against it but later agreed in hope of popularising his movement in England. The appeal was dismissed.

After rejection of the appeal to the privy council, Congress party president Madan Mohan Malaviya filed a mercy appeal before the viceroy. Gandhi also raised the issue with the viceroy, who did not agree to commute the sentence.

HSRA members devised a plan to rescue Bhagat Singh and fellow inmates from the jail but it failed.

Martyrdom - Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev were ordered to be hanged on 24 March 1931.

The schedule was moved forward by 11 hours and the three were hanged on 23 March evening in the Lahore jail.

Fearing unrest from the public, the jail authorities broke a hole in the rear wall of the jail, removed the bodies, and secretly tried to cremate them under the cover of darkness outside a village on the banks of River Sutlej.

They managed to light the pyre but they were discovered by villagers.

Soldiers ran away leaving behind the partly cremated bodies.

Villager sat reverently by the remains of their heroes. A mourning procession started the next day afternoon, with three flower decked coffins accompanied by Bhagat Singh’s family.

News of the execution spread like wildfire, and there was outrage around the country over the manner authorities had disposed of the bodies.

Subhash Chandra Bose said, “Bhagat Singh had become the symbol of the new awakening among the youths." Nehru acknowledged Bhagat Singh's popularity saying, ”he was like a spark that became a flame in a short time and spread from one end of the country to the other dispelling the prevailing darkness everywhere". Officials noted after four years of hanging that his photograph was on sale in every city and town and for a time rivaled in popularity even that of Gandhi himself.

After Independence, his writings and views came out in public domain. His essays, “why I am an Atheist”, “The Philosophy of the Bomb” and “To the Young Political Workers” discussed many contemporary issues.

He is regarded as a hero in modern India. Numerous films and books based on his life have been produced.

Monuments and statues dedicated to him have been erected througout the nation.

—Awadhesh Sharma web: hinduguru.com.au

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022 — 25

God Himself arranges for securing what we lack and preserving what we have – Part -1

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

Hundred years after him, Pujya Bapu Ji addressed the same Parliament in September 1993 and the whole parliament reverberated with the chanting of Hari Om. Both of these worldrenowned spiritual leaders addressed the audience for 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 the India and to save the countrymen from mental slavery, in 2014, he initiated celebration of Tulsi poojan on 25th December.

A Mahatma was wandering along the banks of the Ganges. One day he resolved. 'I will not ask for alms from anyone.

Since I have become a Sannyasin who belongs to God, then why to ask anyone for anything? I will not acceptfood from anybody until God Himself comes to give food to me."

Having made this resolve, he sat down on the bank of Ganges after having a bath. The morning passed ... It was noon ... then a couple of hours passed ...

He was hungry but kept sitting on the strength of faith. A pious householder saw him sitting in the same place since morning.

He asked, "Babaji! Would you like to eat something?"

"No." "Would you like to come with me?"

"No." The householder went to his home but could not eat a meal. He told his wife, "There is a Mahatma sitting outside hungry.

How can I eat in such a situation?"

After listening to this, his wife also didn't eat.

Their little daughter came home from school by this time. Soon their son also arrived home. Both of them were hungry and after knowing the situation they also didn't eat.

All of them together went to the sannyasin. and said, "Come with us, Mahatma! Have a meal.

The Mahatma thought: 'One after another person will come to disturbs me.'

So he said, "I shall eat in the house of whoever gives me dakshina (a gift given to ascetics with the right hand) of the merit of performing a hundred Ashwamedha Yajnas after the meal.

After arriving back home, the little daughter started praying to God in their Pooja-room (Room for worshipping God).

Prayer from a pure heart with the feeling of distress is definitely heard by God. So she also received a divine inspiration from God in her heart.

She came out of the Pooja-room. She gave a pot filled with water to her brother and took the plate containing the meal, covered with another plate in her hands. Her brother was sprinkling water on the path ahead and she was following him, walking on the sanctified path to the place of the Mahatma.

She put the plate at the feet of the sannyasin and prayed to cat: "Maharaj!

Please have the meal. You want to receive the merit of performing a hundred Ashwamedha Yajnas as the dakshina, right? I shall give it to you.

Sannyasin: "You, your father and even your grandfather didn't perform a single Ashwamedha Yajna, so how can you give the merit of one hundred Ashwamedha Yajnas?"

The girl: "Maharaj!

Please have the meal. I offer you the merit of a hundred Ashwamedha Yajnas. The scriptures mention, "the person who goes to the dwelling place of a true devotee of God, earns the merit of performing an Ashwamedha Yajna on every step.' Maharaj!

26 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022

You are sitting at a place which is 200-300 steps from our house. So I have earned the merit of performing so many Ashwamedha Yajnas. I offer you the merit of one hundred Ashwamedha Yajnas at your feet and the remaining will remain with me."

After hearing the girl's intuitive statement consistent with scriptures, he blessed her and accepted the meal.

How is the Antaryamin, Supreme Lord, who inspires all beings!

He made the right arrangement, lest the devotee starve due to his resolve. If one treads the path to God with firm determination, God Himself arranges for securing what one lacks and preserving what one has.

The sole resting place for devotees The person, who worships God with exclusive devotion, does not like anything but God. His heart is not satisfied with anything else.

Even if he/she becomes extrovert, being allured by material things and carnal pleasures, still he/she will become introverted again, realising their insipidity.

A ship is sailing on the vast water of an ocean.

Nothing but water can be seen all around for miles.

There is no sign of land. A bird is sitting on top of the mast of the ship. That is the only thing the bird can rest on. It flies around for some time but has to come back to the same ship in the end. That ship is the exclusive place of rest for

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. that bird. Similarly, God is the only resting place to get pure bliss and repose for devotees of God who do not think of anything else.

He/she has realised the futility of hankering after worldly pleasures as if he/ she has found an oasis in a scorching desert.

The devotee treading the path of Bhakti Marga (path of devotion to God) gets drawn more and more towards God. He/she starts severing relationships with other things and persons. He/ she keeps himself/herself absorbed in the constant remembrance of God and divine intoxication, which in turn also brings God nearer to His beloved devotee. God undertakes total responsibility for such a devotee.

God Himself arranges for securing what they lack and preserving what they have.

I generally need something to eat after 30 minutes of having performed aasanas.

It could be any nutritious food-item, be it an apple, an orange, some milk or even a few (2-3) Okra pods.

Once, I went into a dense

forest where I didn't have any of my acquaintances.

I was performing my aasanas there and at the same time, was telling myself with sarcasm- 'Now have food. You will enjoy it.' While living at home, it was either my mother, brother or other family members who would take care of my food, etc. That is fine. But the care taken by that Paramatma - the Supreme Self is amazing!

While living at home, I would go to home after 30 minutes of having performed my aasanas (in another place) and would ask my kindred at home 'Get the breakfast ready for me ... get me my breakfast ... ', and then I would get it. However, in this case, while I was performing my aasanas, two men came to me and said, 'Please, have your breakfast.' I was truly taken aback at this. They seemed to be villagers with long moustaches, good looking faces, red & chubby cheeks, each wearing a turban. I looked here & there, but there was no house to be seen around.

I asked, "Whom have you got this for, and where

have you come from?"

They said, "Our village is located nearby.

"But the sun is still rising so how come you made it so early ... ?"

They said, "It's warm right now, you please have it first, and then we can talk.

I said, "No, I am yet to finish my aasanas for the day." I was performing Mayurasana at that time.

They said, "Baapji! I had a dream at 3.00 a.m. last night in which I saw this place and this very scene.

What great care that Paramatma takes of us!

Yet, if your heart doesn't melt with devotion to that Supreme Self on listening to such instances, then it's not even worth calling it a human-heart. It must be an animal-heart instead.

After that my love for the Gita and Lord Krishna increased even more. I had numerous presiding deities in childhood.

Earlier, I used to worship Kali, and when she'd appear before me, I would become afraid. So, I quit worshipping Kali, and took to Lord Rama, followed

by Lord Shiva, and then Kanhaiya (Lord Krishna) as well. I realised that His knowledge is such that thousands are making their living by promoting it, and hundreds of thousands are getting spiritually evolved, thus leading a better life. ( to be continued in the next issue of The Brisbane Indian Times)

Excerpted from Rishi Prasad issue number 317 & 318 To listen 24X7 live divine Satsang of Pujya Bapu Ji, please search “Mangalmay live” on google, visit http://www. ashram.org/live or search “THE SBM STUDIO” on you Tube. By the Divine Inspiration of Bapu ji, the weekly sessions of Bal Sanskar and yoga are held in Brisbane. To know more about His Divine Holiness Bapu Ji, please watch this video. https:// bit.ly/2uZvJuN Shri Yoga Vedanta Seva Samiti Australia & New Zealand Inc. will be distributing free Tulsi plants on Tulsi pujan diwas and free school bags to kids on Matri Pitri Poojan Diwas in all cities of Australia & New Zealand. To get a free copy of monthly spiritual magazine Rishi-Prasad in your mailbox in Australia or to get free online subscription of Rishi -Prasad, please contact by email at bskamd@gmail. com or by WhatsApp/ phone to Ashok Attri and Anu Attri at +61 426 834 434 & +61 405 277 802.

Please read more about our Vedic culture in the next issue of The Brisbane Indian Times.

Australian IndiaN Radio Interviews

August Interviews on Australian Indian Radio

BRISBANE, Australian Indian Radio conducts a series of interviews of community interest, Air is approached by many agencies for the interviews conducted by Umesh

Chandra OAM. Regular shows include weekly Real Estate Update, Monthly Migration Updates, Legal topic, topical community concerns etc. The interviews can be heard on our social

media channels and on our online stream. Apart from the regular shows, Australian Indian Radio had the following interviews in August month: • Ron Baker from Golden

Key Realty • Sakhi Rai ji from ISKCON team regarding ISKCON Brisbane’s Janmastami celebrations If you have any topic that you would like to discuss,

Australian Indian Radio will be more than happy to get you on the show, please contact our office for further information. Delhi based PIO TV has a long association with Brisbane Indian Times

and Australian Indian Radio and they produce a daily India report exclusive to Australian Indian Radio Facebook live, the program is live streamed on Facebook live and YouTube channel.

Dr Aditya Varma will be featured in the September Episode of Aap Ki Sehat on Australian Indian Radio BRISBANE Dr Aditya Varma (MBBS, DNB, FRANZCR) will be featured in the September episode of Aap ki Sehat, meaning Your HEALTH Program, initiated

by IMA, QLD, Australia.

This is the Public Health message Program from IMA Queensland, streamed

by Australian Indian Radio.

September episode of Aap Ki Sehat will be LIVE on a revised date – Saturday, 10th September at 10:00 AM on Australian Indian Radio Facebook page and YouTube channel.

Dr Aditya Varma is a well-experienced, leading Radiologist at PULSE RADIOLOGY at Rochedale and Loganholme.

Dr Varma has graduated from the from Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences in Bangalore, India in 2001 and completed his residency at the GB Pant Hospital in Delhi (which is a tertiary Gastro- Neuro – cardiac centre draining a large population of Northern India) in 2004.

Dr Varma undertook a fellowship training in Oncoradiology at the Singapore cancer centre

Call: (07) 3192 5188

and thereafter additional fellowship training at Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital in Perth in Breast imaging and Body Imaging/ Oncologic Imaging including MRI. He has been employed as Radiologist as a Senior Medical Officer at The Prince Charles Hospital and consultant at the Wesley Breast clinic.

Previously he has worked at Mater Hospital Brisbane, Ipswich hospital and at the Royal Hobart Hospital.

Dr Varma’s subspecialty interests include all aspects of Oncologic Imaging Radiology, Abdominal,

Prostate and Breast MRI, Neuro and Head and neck Imaging. He has keen interest in pain management interventions including performing radiofrequency ablations of facets.

Aditya is actively involved in teaching and involved in research with medical students and radiology registrars. He is part of the IMG committee at FRANZR. Previously served at the CPD committee and has been a research adjuvant research fellow at Queensland Brain Institute. He is a senior lecturer at university of Queensland School of medicine. He is committed to deliver high quality health care and maintains high standards of care with active communication with the referring physicians aiming to obtain the best outcomes for his patients.

Aap Ki Sehat features on the Facebook live channel of Australian Indian Radio on the first Saturday of every month and an audioonly version on Australian Indian Radio on the first Sunday of every month at 10:00 AM.

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022 — 27

Who, What, Where, When...

Ty Randall, Dr Asti Mardiasmo, Umesh Chandra OAM and Usha Chandra at Indoz dinner function

Multicultural representation at Indoz Dinner

David Widjaja advisor Indoz conference 2022 present token for presentation

Aarthi Darshanam at ISKCON Janmashtami celebration at Croatian Community center in Rocklea.

An excellent turnout for a sold-out “Innisai Maalai 2022”at BTP Conference Centre Eight Miles Plains on 28th August.

“Heart to Heart” Fellowship Lunch by Order of Australia Association of Queensland ( OAAQ) at Nudgee Golf Club

Lord Mayor Cr Adrian Schrinner addresses the Legends of Brisbane at a Dinner function in the Music Hall in Fortitude Valley

Usha Chandra, Legend of Brisbane Li Cunxin OAM, Umesh Chandra OAM

28 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022

Councillor Sandy Landers Hosted Umesh and Usha Chandra at her Table at the Legends of Brisbane Dinner

Who, What, Where, When...

Inaugural address at the Launch of Queensland Muslim Inc.

Ms Janeth Deen OAM presents a token to Senator Paul Scarr while delightful MC Mustapha Ally prepares for the next motion

Mindy Russell Councillor for Division 3 in Logan, Farouk Adams, Habib Jamal and Umesh Chandra OAM at the launch of QMI

James Martin MP congratulates QMI on their formal Launch at Parliament house

Ms Janeth Deen OAM shed light on the formation of QMI at the official Launch

Multicultural Community Award for Queensland Multicultural Month

Mrs Pinky Singh OAM – Punjabi Welfare Association

Mr Hussain Baba Islamic Society of Gold Coast

Mr Habib Jamal – Queensland Muslim Inc

Ms Rita Anwari – Afghan community

Mr Anoop Nannuru – FICQ

Umesh Chandra OAM and Usha Chandra – GOPIO Queensland

Mr Surendra Prasad OAM – Fiji Seniors Citizens

Seema Chauhan – GOPIO Gold Coast

Call: (07) 3192 5188

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022 — 29

Arya Samaj Queensland

The meaning of "Om"

Jitendra Deo President ASQ

CONTD. ON PREVIOUS MONTH In OM, the sounds A, U, and M are called mantras or forms; there is also in AUM the common principle called the amatra-OM, that which signifies the thingsin-itself, running through and pervading the threefold phenomena of waking,

dream, and deep sleep.

The law of memory is that the rememberer and the experiencer must be one and the same individual, or else memory is impossible.

So, as we can remember all our experiences in all three planes, there must necessarily be a single common factor which was a witness of all the happenings in all the three planes. There must be some entity within ourselves who is present in the waking world, who moves and illuminates the dream, who is a distant observer in the deep sleep world, and yet who is not conditioned by any of these three realms.

This entity, conceived as the fourth state (turiya), is the Real, the Changeless, the Intelligent Principle.

The syllable OM symbolizes both the

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spheres:(1) the phenomenal, visible sphere of the 'jagat', wherein the manifestations of time and space appear and perish, and (2) the transcendent, timeless sphere of the Imperishable Being, which is beyond and yet one with it. Thus, A the 'waking state', U, the 'dream', and M, the 'deep sleep', and the silence, 'turiya', all the four together comprise the totality of this manifestation of Atman-Brahman as a syllable. Just as the sound M manifests itself, grows, becomes transformed in its vocal quality, and finally subsides into the silence that follows****, so too the four 'states' or components of being ultimately merge into the homogeneous silence of the 'fourth' (turiya). The other three states are transformations of the one experience, which taken together constitute the totality of its modes, whether regarded from the microcosmic or from the macrocosmic point of view.

The A and U are essential to the sound as M, or as the silence (turiya) against which the sound appears.

Moreover, it would be a mistake to say that AUM did not exist while the silence reigned; for it would be still potentially present even in the silence. The actual manifestation of the syllable, on the other hand, is fleeting and evanescent, whereas the silence abides. The silence, indeed, is present elsewhere during a local pronunciation of the AUM - that is to say (by analogy), transcendentally during the creation, manifestation, and dissolution of the universe.

It may be asked as to why this particular word 'OM' should be chosen as the word representative of the 'thought' out of which

the universe has become manifested.

The answer may be given in Swami Vivekananda's own words: "This OM is the only possible symbol which covers the whole ground, and there is none other like it. The sphota is the material of all worlds, yet it is not any definite word in its fully formed state. That is to say, if all the particularities which distinguish one word from another be removed, then what remains will be the sphota. Therefore, this sphota is called the Nada-Brahman, the soundBrahman. Now, every word symbol intended to express the inexpressible sphota, will so particularise it that it will no longer be the sphota.

That which particularise it the least and, at the same time, most approximately expresses its nature will be the truest symbol thereof; and this is the OM, and the OM only; because, these three letters A, U, M, pronounced in combination as OM, can alone be the generalized symbol of all possible sounds. The letter A is the least differentiate of all sounds. Again, all articulate sounds are produced in the space within the mouth – beginning with the root of the tongue and ending at the lips – the throat-sound is A, and M is the lip-sound; and U exactly represents the rolling forward of the impulse which begins at the root of the tongue, continuing till it ends in the lips."

If properly pronounced, this OM will represent in itself the whole phenomenon of sound production, and no other word can do this; and this, therefore, is the fittest symbol of the sphota, which is the real meaning of the OM. And as the symbol can never be separated from the thing

signified, the OM and the sphota are one. And, as the sphota, being the finer side of the manifested universe, is nearer to God, and is indeed the first manifestation of Divine Wisdom, this OM is truly symbolic of God. OM thus represents the entire manifested world and the unmanifest, and also that which lies beyond both the manifest and the unmanifest – the Brahman, which is the changeless substratum for the changing objects of the world of experience.

To every mantra, OM, the Pranava, is added on. And without 'OM' no sacred chant has its power. Just as a living body has no vitality when the life-giving breath is not flowing through its veins, so too, a mantra has no life in it without the addition of the Pranava.

Vedantic students generally practise the repetition of and the mediation upon the symbol provided by the Pranava this is called the Pranava upasana.

OM represents, in its silent significance, both the manifest and the unmanifest, which together constitute the entire subtle and gross world. The word loka in Sanskrit is generally translated as 'world', but, in its etymological meaning, it signifies 'a field of experience'.

The entire possibility of experience in life has been terraced by the rsis into fourteen worlds; seven higher lokas and seven lower worlds. There are three worlds in which a limited ego-centre comes to play its game of reincarnation and repeated deaths: these are (1) Bhur-loka, the physical earth; (2) Bhuvar-loka, the world next to the physical and closely connected with

it, but constituted of finer matter; and (3) Suvarloka, the heavenly world.

Beyond these are the four other 'worlds' wherein the ego comes to move about and enjoy in its higher evolutionary life, and they are called the Mahar-loka, Jana- loka, Tapa-loka, and Satya-loka.

In the Hindu literature we also find conceptions of other 'worlds' such as Indra-loka, Candra-loka, Surya-loka, Pitra-loka, etc., which are special 'realms of experiences' located within the above regions.

Below these seven 'worlds' there is yet another set of seven 'worlds' called the talas. They are named as Patalam, Maha-talam, Rasatalam, Tala- talam, Su-talam, Vi-talam, and A-talam.

Of these fourteen 'worlds', Bhur-Bhuvar-Suvar, denoting the 'three worlds', are called the vyahrtis. In the Gayatri Mantra, when these vyahrtis are chanted, the meditator can visualise the 'three worlds' as arising from, existing in, and disappearing into AUM. He can subjectively identify them with the waking, dream, and deep-sleep conditions of consciousness, transcending which extends the realms of the Infinite. All of them are represented in the symbol OM. In this sense, the vyahrtis in the Gayatri represent in one sweep the entire 'world' of the subjective and the objective experiences of man.

Adopted from author Anil Kapoor Please contact President: Jitendra Deo 3273 3029 or Secretary: Sunil Dutt 5613 3410 for information on activities of Arya Samaj Queensland or log on: www. aryasamajqueensland.org/ Facebook Arya Samaj Qld

Janmashtami celebrations at Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir NORTH MCLEAN, 19th August, Shree Krishna Ji Ka Janam Utsav celebrations were held at Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir by Dharam Guru Acharya Pt Ram Harsh Tripathi Jee. Many devotees attended the event. Festivities included Kirtans, Sohar, and Garba. After Abhisekam, aarathi and Bhog, prasad and Maha Prasad were served.

Janmashtami program had begun on Saturday, 13th August, and finished with the grand celebration on the 19th of August at Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir.

30 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022

NFAK25- A tribute to legendary Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan 20th August 2022 Brisbane commemorated the 25th death anniversary of legendary Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan through a Tribute Concert held at Sunpac Theatre, Sunnybank.

Proudly presented by Kustom Homes, Brisbane Indian Times, and Australian Indian Radio, NFAK25 was a concert performed by the Australianbased band Infusion and left the audience in awe.

Every single member of the audience left the venue with a smile on their face, and the consensus from the feedback received was that the energy created from the music was a “feel-good” moment.

Infusion is a contemporary, world-fusion band with members from all around the world. They are known to create a modern, fresh, energetic, and young sound for all. They are highly versatile, exemplified throughout the concert, with a range of genres being presented.

Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan was integral in

bringing Sufi music to the wider population. His music has no boundaries, with people from all cultures and backgrounds following him around the globe.

NFAK25 was a primary

example of this, with various communities coming together, showing their support, and paying tribute to Khan Saheb.

With well-known musicians across the

Australian musical circuit coming together, Infusion engaged the audience from the first note until the end, when they received a humbling standing ovation.

Infusion consists of Parth

Raval (Keys), Ashutosh Saroch (Vocal), Chetan Ramlu (Vocal & Drums), Darshil Shah (Bansuri), Umer Syed (Vocal & Guitar) and Kush Sami (Tabla & Percussion). For the NFAK

Concert, they were joined by featuring artists Kuldeep Bains (Vocal), Ram Lal (Vocal), Ravi Madhawan (Vocal & Bass), Saral Dass (Vocal & Percussion), and Shaynal Dass (Vocal).

We want to thank our sponsors Kustom Homes, Brisbane Indian Times, Australian Indian Radio, and Tanatan, for their support in delivering NFAK25. Most importantly, we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the audience that attended the concert. We look forward to seeing you all at our next show, which will be very soon!

Infusion can tailor its offering based on your needs. You will not be disappointed if you can play across multiple genres (Classical, Light, Ghazals, Bhajans/Kirtans, Bollywood, Punjabi, Pakistani, and Qawwali). For all booking inquiries, please get in touch with Kush Sami at 0425 032 225 or infusionmusicau@ gmail.com.

Vinayaka Chathurthi Celebrations at Brisbane Shree Venkatesa Durga Temple Shree Venkatesa Durga Temple (57A Kenmore Rd, Kenmore) held the grand celebration of Vinayaka Chathurthi on the 31st of August 2022. The festival was conducted with a divine 108 Sangabishekam performed to Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka followed by a Maha Arathi.

The auspicious Pancha Mukha Archana (Archana for the five faces of Vinayaka) was performed by five priests to seek Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka’s divine blessings on this prosperous festival.

Following the special Archana and chanting of the Vedas and Kirtana, the Bhaktas (devotees) were given the opportunity to partake in the procession of Sri Vinayakar within the Temple.

The Temple is looking forward to celebrating Call: (07) 3192 5188

The auspicious Pancha Mukha Archana (Archana for the five faces of Vinayaka) was performed by five priests to seek Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka’s divine blessings on this prosperous festival. with the Devotees the upcoming Grand Festival of Navarathri Utsavam (26th September to 5th October).

All Devotees will be able to participate as a sponsor per their corresponding suburb at no fixed cost. www.brisbanedurgatemple. com Facebook: SVDTBRISBANE www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022 — 31

Important Events in the Month of Safar

By Ml.M.Nawaaz Ashrafi As discussed in our earlier post, the month of Safar is like all other Hijri months. Any Muslim who held a wrong misconception about the month must drop it, as there is no proof to back any claim.

Today, we are going to discuss about the major events that took place during the month of Safar.

These events are significant to Islamic history and anyone who has an iota of doubt, on whether the month is conceived with bad luck and tragedies, the good events that took place during this month would be an eye opener for them.

Important Events in the Month of Safar There are important occasions that took place during the month of Safar, as oppose to the Jahiliyya misconception. Following are some of the events: • The Battle of Abwaa (took place on Safar 12, in the year 2 AH) • The Battle of Khaibar (took place in Safar in the year 7 AH) • Khubaib Ibn Adey (R.A) was martyred in Safar in the year 4 AH • Zaid Ibn Dathina (RA) was martyred in this month in the year 4 AH • Khalid and 'Amr bin al-'As Accept Islam on Safar 8th Hijri • Hadhrat Ali (RA) married Prophet Muhammad’s (Peace be upon Him) daughter, Hadhrat Fatima (R.A) in the latter days of Safar in the year 2 AH • Prophet Muhammad’s (Peace Be Upon Him) completion of marriage to Umm-Habibah (RA) Good events and activities do happen in the month of Safar. And this shows that the moth is just as blessed. If the personality of our beloved Prophet, Muhammad (peace be upon him), can do good

things – like the completion of his marriage to Umm-Habibah – in the month of Safar, that shows just how pious the month of Safar is.

in accordance to the Sha-ree-’ah, which we must accept and adhere to, if we desire success in both worlds.

Superstition & the Month of Safar All praises to Allawh (Sub haa nahoo wa Ta’aalaa) and choicest blessings upon our beloved Prophet Muhammud (Sallal law hu ‘alay hi wa sallam).

We are entering the second month of the lunar calendar. Safar with a “Sawd” either means ” To turn yellow’ or ‘To be empty/ vacant’ . It was in Autumn when the leaves turn yellow or the homes of the Arabs were empty of their menfolk, that this month was named Safar.

This month is also known as, Sa-farul Mu-zaf-far or Sa-fa-rul Khayr, which means, pr o s p e r o u s , successful, good fortune etc.

This is to eradicate the corrupt beliefs of some people who say, the month of Sa-far is bad-luck, evil, ill-omened, unfortunate etc., so marriages, major transactions etc. must not be conducted in this mo n t h .

Rasoolullawh eradicated all superstitious beliefs. Time, day, week, month, year is an estimation and effected by the will of Allawh .

If anyone does good at anytime, he will be rewarded accordingly and the effects of evil and sins will be decided by Allah .

There are many periods of the lunar calendar and many places in the world where the rewards of good deeds are multiplied and has an adverse result with sins.

Our intellect and understanding is limited, therefore we seek divine guidance from the Glorious Quraan and Ahaadees of Rasoolullah . Senior scholars have explained many things to us,

There is a host of corrupt beliefs regarding this month.

True and sincere Muslims should refrain from them and engage in beneficial deeds. In reality, no time or individual is evil originally. All the customs and beliefs of Sa-far are baseless.

Many people have erroneous beliefs regarding this month i.e. it is a month of misfortune and calamities. The teachings of Allah Ta’ala and His Most Beloved Rasool (SallAllahu Alaihi wa Sallam) gives us clear guidelines on such incorrect beliefs.

Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) says in the Qur’an al-Kareem: ‫ما أصاب من مصيبة إال بإذن هللا‬ “No misfortune befalls except

by Allah’s command...” [Surah Tagabun, Verse 11] These erroneous beliefs have also been condemned in the context of the following Ahadith: ‫ط�ة وال هامة والصفر‬ ‫ال عدوى وال ي‬ There is no superstitious owl, bird, no star-promising rain, no bad omen in the month of Safar.

[Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 5707] ‫ال عدوى وال صفر وال غول‬ There is no bad omen in the month of Safar and no Ghouls (evil spirits). [Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2222] The above Ahadith clearly refutes all incorrect beliefs and superstitions regarding the month of Safar. These incorrect beliefs flow from the pre-Islamic period of Jahiliyyah .

The Month of Safar during the Days of Ignorance The Muhaddithin

have

recorded many of the superstitions harboured by the Arabs during the Days of Ignorance. A few are mentioned below: 1. The pre-Islamic Arabs believed Safar to be a snake which lives in the stomach of a human being and when hungry, bites the person. This is the discomfort one experiences when gripped by the pangs of hunger.

2. Some said Safar are worms which originate in the liver and ribs due to which the colour of the person becomes yellow, a condition we know today as jaundice.

3. According to some, the month of Safar flanked by Muharram and Rabi al Awwal is full of calamities and misfortune.

With the advent of Islam and the teachings of Sayyadina Rasoolullah (SallAllaho Alaihi wa Sallam), all evil and incorrect beliefs common in pre-Islamic times were discarded.

blessed month of Safar.

2. To understand that the most unfortunate person is he who disobeys Allah Ta’ala’s commandments e.g. does not perform the five daily salaah etc. It is narrated in a hadith that Rasoolullah (SallAllaho Alaihi wa Sallam) said: “Pray, 0 Allah! Cause not anyone of us to be a wretched destitute.” He then asked: “Do you know who is a wretched destitute?” Upon the request of the Sahabah (Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhum) he replied, “A wretched destitute is he who neglects his salaat.”

3. We should understand that all conditions which befalls us, good or bad, favourable, or unfavourable are from Allah Ta’ala, (as a result of our actions). Allah Ta’ala says: ” Whatever misfortune befalls you, it is due to the things your hands have wrought, and He forgives many a sin.” (Surah 42 – Verse 30).

Incorrect Beliefs: Today too, there are some Muslims who hold incorrect beliefs regarding the month of Safar.

1. A nikah performed in this month would not be successful.

2. This month is full of misfortune and calamities.

3. To commence any important venture, business etc. during this month will bring bad luck.

4. The first to the thirteenth of Safar is ill-fortune and evil.

5. The person who distributes food or money on the 13th of Safar will be saved from its ill-fortune.

6. To celebrate the last Wednesday of Safar and regard it as a holiday.

What to do: 1. To shun all types of erroneous beliefs regarding the

This can also be confirmed by the following Hadith: Sayyadina Jabir (Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu) has said that, “I have heard Sayyadina Rasoolullah (SallAllaho Alaihi wa Sallam) saying, the descending of illness and evil superstition befalling in the month of Safar is untrue.”

To believe that the Month of Safar is inauspicious, and particularly to believe that its first thirteen days are ‘bad luck’ or that it is harmful to marry or propose to marry or undertake a journey, etc., during these days are beliefs which are against the teachings of Islam.

In pre-Islamic days people considered the Month of Safar to be evil and ominous. Rasoolullah Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam

strongly rejected such beliefs and ideas. The truth is that no time, day, month or date is in itself evil, but the deeds of people are either good or bad. The time spent in the performance of good deeds will be auspicious and the time spent in sin and the disobedience of Allah Ta’ala will be evil and ominous.

The Month of Safar is not ominous. Evil deeds and incorrect beliefs are ominous and should be given up and repented for.

It is incorrect to postpone or delay marriage or its proposal or a journey, etc. because of such beliefs.

Rejecting the false beliefs of the days of ignorance Rasoolullah Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam said, ‘Belief in ill-omen is Shirk (polytheistic) (he said this thrice) and the owl’s ominousness is nothing.’ The Mushriks of Arabia used to believe that a house near which an owl screeches will be ruined, hence, Rasoolullah Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam refuted this belief as false. Thereafter, he said, ‘There is nothing ominous about the Month of Safar’. (Bukhari vol.1 pg.857) The polytheists believed the Month of Safar up to the 13th day to be inauspicious, hence, Rasoolullah Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam rejected this superstition. It is therefore wrong for Muslims, who are the followers of Rasoolullah Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam, to adopt the ways of the non-Muslims and to entertain the very beliefs which he had come to change.

May Allah Ta’ala grant all Muslims the ability to accept and practice upon all the beautiful teachings of Rasoolullah Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam, Aameen.

IMPORTANCE OF 12TH RABI-UL-AWAL Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi is celebrated by the Muslims in East and West on 12th Rabi-ulAwwal with great devotion and reverence.

Rabi-ul-Awal is the third month of Islamic Lunar Calendar which holds great importance and significance in the lives of Muslims. The month of Rabiul-Awwal comes after Safaral-Muzaffar and is the most significant month in the Islamic history.

The whole Muslim world knows the month of Rabi-ulAwwal as the month of birth of our Holy Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W). This is the month of celebration for the entire Muslim world, as Allah SWT blessed the world with the birth of His best creation in Rabi-ul-Awwal.

In celebration of Rabi-ulAwwal, Muslims all over the world urged to get together and arrange Mehfil-e-Naat and Mehfil-e-Zikr for the whole week.

The 12th of Rabi-ul-Awwal is marked as the birth date of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, SallAllahu alayhi wa sallam, who is the last to be sent with the divine message for the guidance of humanity. Unlike the ways followers of other religions and faiths commemorate the births of their prophets, Muslims celebrate Eid-e-Milad un Nabi on 12th Rabiul-Awwal in which they gather to discuss the bounty and favor

which Allah SWT has blessed the Muslims with by guiding them to the righteous path of Islam and the teachings of Holy Quran and Sunnah of the final messenger of Allah.

The month of Rabi-ul-Awwal is not exceptional for being the month of birth of our beloved Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him ), but it is the month in which our Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) began his journey of Hijrah and built the first Mosque of Islam, Masjide-Quba. Rabi-ul-Awwal is also significant, as the first Jummah prayer was established in this month.

The sacred day of 12th of Rabi-ul-Awwal is especially important to the Muslim world, because on this day Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him ) was born, who led humanity from darkness to light and who is described by Allah as “a mercy to all the worlds – Rehmat-ullil-Alimeen”.

Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi is celebrated by the Muslims in East and West on 12th Rabi-ulAwwal with great devotion and reverence. The occasion like 12th Rabi-ul-Awwal is meant to remind people of how the Prophet lived his life and to rejuvenate their Iman.

Nowadays, the celebrations of such religious occasion like

32 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022

12th Rabi-ul-Awwal is extremely important to instil values, ethics and moral code in youth, practiced by the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him ). The occasion of 12th Rabi-ul-Awwal serves a great purpose in that it brings the people closer to the teachings of Islam and to the Holy Prophet’s way of life. The sacred month of Rabi-ul-Awwal causes the Muslims to remember the blessings of Holy Prophet and to fill their hearts with the love of the Prophet peace and blessings be upon him . It is the duty of every Muslim parent to tell the stories of Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him ) to their children on 12th Rabi-ul-Awwal that shed light on different aspects of his life.

The month of Rabi-ul-Awwal marks the birth of Nabi Sallallaahu Alayhi Wa Sallam, the last and final prophet of Allah Ta’ala. A personality whose struggles and sacrifices, against every odd, were aimed at liberating and freeing not just a people, nor a nation, but instead humanity at large.

What we allude to here is the monumental struggle, spanning 23 years of this impressive life in liberating humankind from the yokes and fetters of the constraints and oppressions of life itself. It is only in this regard that we afford the final prophet of Islam the appellation of “The greatest Saviour & Benefactor of

mankind”.

Allah Ta’ala aptly reminds us in the Qur’aanul Kareem of His magnanimous favour in sending Nabi Sallallaahu Alayhi Wa Sallam to mankind where He says: “Indeed Allah had conferred a great favour on the believers when He sent among them a messenger from amongst themselves” (Sura Ale Imraan, verse 164).

When Allah Ta’ala created this world with all its resources and adornments He did not cite this as a favour upon mankind and nor did He cite as a favour upon mankind when He created mankind as His masterpiece and endowed him with the various faculties of intelligence, sight, perception etc. However, Allah Ta’ala deemed appropriate to remind mankind of His favour when He deputed Nabi Sallallaahu Alayhi Wa Sallam to mankind.

The reason behind this was that mankind was now conferred with a favour that would transform and change his very being and return to him his nobility, dignity and honour in the sight of his creator. Thus this reminder.

This favour will only be realized and regarded as a favour when one views the advent of Nabi Sallallaahu Alayhi Wa Sallam using the prevalent conditions of the time as a backdrop.

The advent of Nabi Sallallaahu Alayhi Wa Sallam occurred at a time when mankind had plunged themselves into the very abysses and dungeons of depravation and degeneration. It is a hard-proven fact that this was the darkest era that had ever engulfed mankind and therefore it was rightfully tagged the “Days of Ignorance” or Ayaamul-Jaahiliyaa. It was the mission of NabiSallallaahu Alayhi Wa Sallam to eradicate this darkness and usher mankind into the light of freedom and liberation. For 23 long and hard years this mission continued unabated. Its end result was that mankind was now free, liberated and most noteworthy became not just beacons of light, but light themselves. This fact is attested to in the Qur’aanul Kareem when Allah Ta’ala says: “Allah was well pleased with them and they were well pleased with Him” (Suratul Bayyinah, verse 8) It was only this struggle that brought about or gave birth to the glorious and golden era of Islam. An era that is well recorded in the annals of Islamic history as an era wherein mankind was nobly freed and liberated.

The sublime teachings of Nabi Sallallaahu Alayhi Wa Sallam unequivocally and glaringly spelt out: • Freedom from oppression • Freedom from superstition

• Freedom from atheism • Freedom from paganism and idolatry • Freedom from materialism • Freedom from xenophobia and caste systems • Freedom from exploitation and monopoly • Freedom from animalism and barbarism.

Before concluding we ask ourselves, “Could there ever be a struggle more noble and laudable than one that taught mankind life and living according to the dictates of their creator?

Could there be another personality more lauded and celebrated than the one who changed and transformed the moral landscape of humankind?

It is only when the world views this struggle in its correct light and applies its teachings we would confidently say that mankind has attained true freedom and liberation!

May Allah Ta’ala grant the Ummah the Tawfiq of emulating His Nabi Sallallaahu Alayhi Wa Sallamin totality and make us realize that true allegiance to His noble Prophet Sallallaahu Alayhi Wa Sallam is not just the commemoration of the day of his birth but a lifetime of practical commemoration of his great life.

Aameen Let every Muslim make it his duty to introduce this great personality to the world!

QTA New Logo and Website unveiling 17th Aug 2022

QTA Students' Mate Event (Vidyarthi Nestham) on 6th Aug 2022

On 17th August 2022 Queensland Telugu Association had its new logo and website unveiled.

The ceremony opened with our current President Mr Ravi Gundepalli opening his welcome speech followed felicitating all our ex QTA Presidents residing in Queensland.

The felicitations were also co-carried out by our Vice President Mr Rama Krishna Bulusu, Treasurer Mr Ravi Yanamandra, Executive member Mrs Manju Segu, Co-opt member Mrs Khey Silari, Master of the Ceremony (MC) + our Coopt member Mr Sri Krishna Ravipati.

It was absolutely wonderful to see every Ex QTA President (currently residing in Australia) attending our event who

On Saturday, 6th August 2022 Queensland Telugu Association hosted an event for international students.

It was an informative event where we had the following guest speakers: Solicitor Mr Suraj Shrikumar who explained versions of general law matters.

Queensland Police Community Liaison Officers Mr Ricky Lashand and explained recent changes with Qld laws and how they impact general public.

Mr Ravi Gundepalli a Migration agent addressed some key factors from the immigration perspective.

Overall it was a well executed event with a great positive feedback.

We sincerely thank Cr Angela Owen - Councilor for Calamvale Ward for

were: Founding President Mr Prakash Nallamilli (uncle) Mr Prabhakar Bachu Mr Sudershan Kanthakadi Mr Anoop Nannuru Mrs Navaneetha Thatimakula Mrs Ratna Buddhavarapu Mrs Uma Guduru Mr Siva Indla Each President in their speeches, shared their special bonding with QTA and their memorable experiences during their tenure.

Later on, our current President Mr Ravi Gundepalli explained the necessity in changing the logo as well as the importance of updating our QTA website now.

In the same context, he also urged the support from all the ex-officials of QTA to

the current committee and community.

Subsequently, all the ExPresidents officially unveiled the new logo by showing the printed copy to the audience while the tech team displayed it on the screen.

Then our Founding President Mr Prakash Nallamilli uncle officially launched our new QTA website.

Finally our Vice President Mr Rama Krishna Bulusu spoke his Vote of Thanks to everyone and officially ended the event.

QTA sincerely would like to extend its special thanks to all Ex-Presidents, Life Members, Yearly Members, Committee members, Volunteers, Sponsors for their continuous support and making this monumental occasion a huge success!

being there and addressing the patrons at the beginning of the event.

We highly encourage all students to contact us for any other suggestions/ assistance/ guidance. We would be delighted to assist.

Please also inform us on what other areas

of interests/topics you need guidance/assistance with. We will ensure we bring expert speakers in those fields to clarify your queries.

We would also like to thank all the attendees and volunteers who made this event a successful one.

Kavita ji

Call: (07) 3192 5188

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022 — 33

Pramukh Swami Maharaj: A Profound Ocean of Equanimity The oceans are truly an utter mystery. We have mapped the surface of the moon and Mars, but only explored five percent of the ocean floor. The oceans are familiar to us since we visit them and see them regularly, but beneath the surface there is an immense depth that we cannot even begin to fathom. Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s fifth spiritual successor, His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s knowledge possessed a similar unintelligible depth shrouded in familiarity. In particular, his atmagnan (knowledge of the self as the soul) was unparalleled and cannot be fully described with words, even though many had witnessed it for many years.

Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s intense, constant spiritual travels were a testament to his deep-rooted atmagnan. On 28 September 1978, after traveling for days through several villages and visiting several hundred homes, Pramukh Swami Maharaj arrived in Kapura, a village in southern Gujarat. Sumanbhai Bhakta, a longtime devotee, was overjoyed at his arrival.

Viveksagar Swami was delivering discourses, as Pramukh Swami Maharaj was turning his rosary.

Viveksagar Swami noticed Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s face changing color. He reached over and grabbed Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s wrist, to find that it was boiling hot. He immediately ended the assembly and helped take Pramukh Swami

Maharaj to Jitubhai Shah’s home.

Upon arrival, Pramukh Swami Maharaj collapsed onto the bed. While a doctor administered some medicine, Pramukh Swami Maharaj used his few remaining ounces of strength to whisper to the sadhus, “I hope Sumanbhai’s father is not offended. I wanted to stay for the whole assembly. I didn’t want to finish it early. We didn’t get to go to Mahendrabhai’s house. He has come all the way from Madhi.”

Pramukh Swami Maharaj was totally spent, unable to even turn in bed. Despite this, at around 11:30 a.m., Pramukh Swami Maharaj made sure to ask about the food offered to Harikrishna Maharaj.

Further examination of Pramukh Swami Maharaj revealed that he had developed jaundice and a gum abscess. Labhshankarbhai, a dentist from Rajkot who had come for Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s darshan, examined Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s condition and exclaimed, “Only Pramukh Swami Maharaj can tolerate so much pain.” After days of traveling from village to village and home to home Pramukh Swami Maharaj did not express even a slight desire for rest. Only after his body completely gave out did Pramukh Swami Maharaj agree to rest. His resilience was unmatched: after physically taxing travels, Pramukh Swami Maharaj decided to endure an illness that eventually made him take mandatory bed rest.

Pramukh Swami Maharaj: Vicharan (Spiritual Travel)

Had he expressed even the slightest discomfort before, the sadhus and devotees would have altered his schedule. But who could stop Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the guru who looked after others, from neglecting his own health for the sake of others?

Once, in 1984, when Pramukh Swami Maharaj arrived in Yogi Nagar, Nadiad, to perform the groundbreaking ceremony of a plot of land on which a mandir would be constructed, a large thorn pierced the sole of his foot.

Janmangal Swami wiped the blood and wrapped Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s foot, so that Pramukh Swami

Maharaj’s attendant sadhus and other devotees would not notice. However, he could not help but express his ire at the organizers of the event, deeming them irresponsible for not properly cleaning the grounds.

Pramukh Swami Maharaj, noticing Janmangal Swami’s frustration, called him close before his afternoon nap, and said, “Don’t get angry at anyone for what happened this morning. If one is destined to get hurt, then it doesn’t make a difference if he’s in a field or a room in a house; he’ll still get hurt.”

His unperturbed response to physical pain was a natural, effortless expression of his atmagnan.

Not once, even casually, had Pramukh Swami Maharaj mentioned his physical discomforts. While those with a superficial understanding of oneself as the atma may at least react in some way to such discomforts, Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s demeanor in such situations made it appear as if nothing has occurred. In all situations, Pramukh Swami Maharaj had naturally and effortlessly exhibited his atmagnan, the state in which one behaves as the atma, experiencing the bliss of God, remaining unaffected by the ups and downs of the world. Pramukh Swami Maharaj was himself

Aksharbrahman.

His realized state, atmagnan, was intrinsic. In his entire life, regardless of the obstacle, Pramukh Swami Maharaj had never become dejected.

Moreover, in positive events, Pramukh Swami Maharaj had never over-rejoiced. He had always remained equipoised.

Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s understanding that the happenings of this world and body are temporary, and that the atma is eternal and blissful, undergirded his constant equanimity in all situations.

To learn more about Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s life and work, please visit: www.pramukhswami.org

First DharmaFest – A Youth-led Initiative was a Grand Success New Zealand’s first ever DharmaFest, with the theme 'Vibhinnatayam Ekatvam' - Unity in Diversity, was launched at the Mahatma Gandhi Centre in Auckland by Hindu Youth New Zealand (HYNZ) on Sunday, 7th August 2022.

The event started at 10.00am with the traditional welcoming of spiritual representatives from various Dharma groups, including Hindu, Jain, Buddhist, and Sikh communities, followed by the lighting of the Diya (lamp) to mark the auspicious beginning of

DharmaFest.

DharmaFest allowed Dharmic communities to

34 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022

come together, engage with each other and showcase their unique contributions

to Aotearoa, New Zealand.

With the attendance of several Dharma-based

groups, temples, and spiritual organizations, the youth team leading this event was grateful and humbled by the support from the community.

With nearly 1,000 participants participating in the event over the day, the event was a grand success.

Hindu Youth New Zealand is a youth-led organization that helps develop young leaders in Aotearoa, New Zealand. Through capability and capacity-building initiatives, such as national conferences, workshops, webinars, cultural events,

and mentorship programs, young people are supported to reach their potential.

They have an opportunity to contribute to the broader New Zealand society.

If you, or someone you know, may be interested in helping make unique community events like DharmaFest happen or to get in touch with Hindu Youth New Zealand, email hinduyouth. newzealand@gmail.com or contact HYNZ through its social media. Facebook: Hindu Youth New Zealand.

Instagram: @hinduyouthnz.

Women's Wellness-Wellbeing workshop BRISBANE On 30th July 2022, the Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) hosted a Women's Wellness-Wellbeing workshop featuring many accomplished presenters.

The presenters included Cr. Angela Owen, Calamvale Ward, Mrs. Archana Singh, Hon. Consul of India, Brisbane, and representatives from the Queensland Police Service.

Ms. Cilna George - Clinical Psychologist, discussed Australian-Indian women and mental health, and Ms. Latha Vikraman - Medical Social Worker, gave an interactive presentation about self-care and wellness.

While Ms. Pushpa Vaghela Motivational Speaker, spoke about the journey of effective leadership and business success, Mrs. Megha Roy Basu - Spatial Science Professional, showcased stress management techniques.

The event was the first of the series of quarterly events that is a part of FICQ’s Wellness Initiative, aimed at information dissemination on wellness among the member organizations and the Indian-origin diaspora.

The event was the first of the series of quarterly events that is a part of FICQ’s Wellness Initiative, aimed at information dissemination on wellness among the member organizations and the Indian-origin diaspora. A sub-committee was formed to focus on future topics and events.

FICQ expresses gratitude to all the speakers and participants and looks forward to seeing them at the next event.

Brisbane Ganesh Festival 2022 ATA Event Mega success Aussie’s Telugu Association (ATA) organized our first-ever Ganesh Festival 2022 in Brisbane, Queensland.

The event was graced by RK Roja Selvamani Garu (Minister of Tourism, Culture & Youth Advancement from Andhra Pradesh, India), R.K Selvamani Garu - the legendary Film Director, Sri Madhavaneni Raghunandan Rao Garu (Member of Telangana Legislative Assembly) and Sri Modugula Venugopal Reddy Garu (Ex-Member of Parliament, Andhra

Call: (07) 3192 5188

Pradesh, India).

Congratulations to Aussie’s Telugu Association (ATA), for a successful inaugural event.

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022 — 35

SHRI KRISHNA JANMASHTAMI EVENT IN TOOWOOMBA BY DJJS Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan (DJJS) with the support of the Indian Community in Toowoomba celebrated Shri Krishna Janmashtami.

The event was a great success which attendees from all walks of life and communities. The event had cultural performances by Hridayam School of Dance and DJJS kids, a riveting play on Lord Krishna’s disciple Udhav by DJJS volunteers and soulful bhajans (devotional songs).

These performances were accompanied with the innate message from our spiritual scriptures.

DJJS also set up stalls exhibiting the traditional Indian education system imparted through GURUKULs and the traditional Indian kitchen which use to be all about health sciences. The food stall was the cherry on cake which witnessed queues of attendees to taste the delicious Indian curries and snacks.

The event was attended

by Mr. Garth Hamilton MP - Federal Member Groom, Mr. David Janetzki MP - State Member South

and run under the Mentorship of His Holiness Shri Ashutosh Maharaj Ji, is a registered socio-spiritual, not-for-profit organization. To realize the vision – ‘From Self Awakening to Global Peace’ and to transform the torn and tormented humanity into a peaceful “global family”.

Toowoomba and Mr. Geoff McDonald – Deputy Mayor of Toowoomba with other members of the community.

The ministers enjoyed the stage performances, visited the exhibition stalls, and had

sumptuous Indian Food. The MPs did ribbon cutting of the stall exhibiting divine plays of Lord Krishna and really took interest in understanding the essence of this Indian festival.

The event did bring to

fore aspects of practical spirituality which are relevant and very much applicable in our day to day lives. All in all, the event was a great way for the community to come together, enjoy a pleasant

day by getting insight into the Indian spirituality and culture.

ABOUT DJJS: Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan (DJJS), established

IN AUSTRALIA: In Australia, DJJS has been actively working for the community for more than 8 years now. It has been organizing and participating in various cultural, social, and spiritual events across different cities like Sydney, Perth, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Adelaide. To name some of the events - Told the significance of Holika Dahan and Ram Navmi through an engaging play, carried out Kalash Yatra (Traditional Procession), and performed collective Yagya, we brought the festivity to King George Square for the first time and showcased the scientific aspects of ancient Indian Kitchen and the highly advanced and regarded Gurukuls of ancient India.

Spiritual Well-Being and Mental Health During the COVID-19 Pandemic Dr Venkat Pulla, Indian Council of Australia, Queensland and Foundation Professor Brisbane Institute of Strength based Practice Regardless of the culture into which people are born, there appears to be a recognition that spiritual concerns begin early in a person's development, when life is full of zest, vigour, and vitality. However, as a result of preoccupation with zestful life, these spiritual concerns are pushed to the back burner.

Whenever a social worker who is spiritually attuned embarks on a journey of any kind, that journey not only proves fruitful for the person with whom they are working, but it also proves especially rewarding for the social worker, because it marks the beginning of a journey of personal introspection and reflection within themselves.

The Multicultural Symposium being proposed will offer mental health social work an opportunity to undertake a journey amidst the pandemic challenges of the last twenty months, primarily how people have fared and how care work has fared in the context in Queensland.

The modern world acknowledges an increasing number of people who are able to adapt, have hope, act, anticipate, prevent, promote, and transcend challenging circumstances. One can assume that these indicators point to a growing awareness of religion and spirituality as two integral sources of inner and outer strengths to deal with adversity, illness, ageing, and disability

(Pulla,2016). It is abundantly clear that one of the prime focuses of human existence on this planet is that of making do, showing fortitude, and relying on one's own internal resources and capabilities.

Within the Australian social work practice the idea of spirituality is not ingrained in the definitions of what is considered to be "mainstream" culture. It is with a great deal of regret that we acknowledge that social work practice has also remained unresponsive and indifferent to the vital and pervasive force of spirituality within our societies, which assists in coping and resilience.

We argue that spirituality is something that exists within all of us, regardless of whether or not we are actively involved in organised religion or whether or not we recognise it for what it is. People who have a certain way of thinking should not consider spirituality a side interest or an alternative to their main focus. We all have a spirituality, regardless of whether or not we desire one and regardless of whether or not we are religious. To a greater extent than whether we attend services at a church, mosque, temple, or synagogue, our level of spirituality is determined by whether or not we are able to go to sleep at night with a clean conscience. It is not about dogmas; rather, it is about straightforward natural and universal regulations, which

36 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022

we can refer to as natural universal laws. Regardless of whether or not we choose to consciously allow ourselves to be moulded by any explicit religious idea, the actions that we choose to take will ultimately determine whether or not we are healthy. There are a lot of people who don't claim to be spiritual or involved in religious pursuits, but it seems like they're still heading in the right direction. Their actions are a clear demonstration of their convictions and the fundamental human values to which they adhere, including the pursuit of truth, the maintenance of a nonviolent demeanour, concern for one's fellow man, and protection of the natural world. Having said that, it is also correct to suggest that the idea of spirituality is all-encompassing and overlaps with that of religion. However, in contrast to spirituality, belonging to a religion is a choice that is made by a number of people in our societies.

Everyone has been very severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the situation has been very stressful for all health workers.

Workers in allied health. All workplaces including schools, all societal institutions including spiritual places and all human services and workers in them have been affected by fear and anxiety on the one hand, exposure

and even lack of personal protective equipment in the early stages.

Financial insecurities, work overloads, overnight adjustments amidst confusion are that we have witnessed in the last twenty odd months and more. As we head into this project to hear to the narratives of people coping experiences even at this very moment, our society is still passing through, and seems bearing witnesses to many people’s agony and their sense of isolation.

The Context of Spirituality: A myopic view of humanity has allowed us, for a significant amount of time, to focus on the physical, the psychological, and the social aspects of being human while largely avoiding the mention of the search for meaning and value that is an essential part of being human and making up the spiritual component of human life. The overarching concept that we have in mind when we talk about "care" is something that incorporates aspects such as compassion and respect for the individual beliefs and values of the people being cared for. When we work with elderly clients in social work, we are forced to pause for a moment, reflect, and then start our journey towards becoming practitioners who work with the elderly. A number of

social workers carry out the spiritual aspects of their jobs without even realising it.

Because of the extraordinary circumstances, a large number of people whose jobs involve providing care (such as social workers, support workers in NDIS, allied health workers in nursing homes, men, and women who work in childcare and in allied health, and others who assist in the management of social services for humanity) need to take additional precautions to protect their own health.

These people include social workers, support workers in NDIS, allied health workers in nursing homes, men, and women who work in childcare and in allied health, and others It has always been a point of view that having a spiritual focus could provide a certain degree of calmness and possibly a passage through one's anxieties; however, one cannot be sure of the number of people who believe this. Recognised the potential power of their own spirituality as a resource. We do not know how many people have actually harnessed this for their own wellbeing and the wellbeing of the others that they were caring.

Undisputedly the fact appears that spiritually of some form or the other seems to have emerged as an important factor during the pandemic. Although

spirituality among patients in the health system, elderly and the frail aged residents in the nursing homes, clients, and participants in many other walks of life is becoming more common, much less has been talked about the spiritual needs of patients, clients, and participants, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Similarly, much less is also known about the whole range of care people and their own orientations and their own felt or perceived needs in this realm.

This first ever multiculturally focussed symposium explores several spiritual considerations that may help people working in care work. The day to day needs if any from the lens of spiritualty would be explored.

How did they fare?

Individually? What concerns did the people whom they serve started raising with them? How did they respond at workplaces/ in schools, and in their own families? these are but pertinent questions.

Both religious and spiritual practices are recognised as effective coping mechanisms in the realm of mental health particularly during times of high stress. The purpose of this symposium is to explore the personal impacts that spiritual and religious coping mechanisms have on levels of fear and anxiety in relation to COVID-19.

Circle of Speakers in the Symposium

Seema Lathker

MCA ( Formerly MDA , Dibley Street, Woolloongabba, Brisbane

SPIRITUAL WELL-BEING AND MENTAL HEALTH DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC 2022 - SYMPOSIUM

Saturday, 10, September 2022 9:15 AM to 1:00 PM

Sadiq Shaik

Art of Living Foundation Brisbane

Neetu Malik

President of Haryanavi Welfare Assoc. in Australia

Khalid Riaz Massage Therapist

Therapy Assistant

Bharti Gitay

Brisbane Institute of Strengths Based Practice

Social Entrepreneur and Patron, ICAQ

Data Analyst

James Martin

Member of Parliament Queensland, Streeton

Ganesh Despande Palani Thevar

James Cook University

Publisher, Researcher

Anil Dalsania

James Cook University

Pinky Singh Adviser Indian Conucil of Australia

Fr. Prem

Orthopaedic Surgeon ( Retd)

St Mary MacKillop Archdiocese of Brisbane

Shaji Theckanath Parminder Singh

Sonal Despande

Project Manager

Hyacinth Udah

Mitra Desai

Rashida Riaz Abraham Francis

Clinician Clinical Counsellor Child Mental Health and Mediator

Venkat Pulla

Ashish Katta

Paul Scaria

Sachin Kumar

Research Scholar, Social WorkJ CU

Social Worker

CEO complet IT

President ICA

Child Care Industry

Register to Attend Free Event Concludes with Lunch https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/spiritual-well-being-andmental-health-during-the-covid-19-pandemic-tickets409262213297

Acknowledgement of Supports

Call: (07) 3192 5188

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022 — 37

Iconic India Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav This year's India Day Fair (IDF) was held at Roma Street Parklands on August 13, 2022, to mark India’s 75th Independence Day. The IDF is an iconic event of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) to celebrate India’s Independence Day with the Indian Diaspora and broader community in Australia. Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav is an initiative of the Government of India to celebrate and commemorate 75 years of independence and the glorious history of its people, culture, and achievements. IDF is one of the flagship and iconic events organized by GOPIO Qld, which connects all multicultural communities in Queensland and pays tribute to freedom fighters to make India Independent and the largest democratic country in the world.

The function officially began with the traditional

welcome to the country by paying respect to the Traditional Custodians of the land by Aunty Betty McGrady (an indigenous Elder) and lighting the traditional lamp. Dr. Jyoti Sharma, PRO officer of GOPIO Queensland, formally welcomed everyone to India Day Fair 2022, followed by a formal inaugural by Councillor Angela Owen.

She graced the opening ceremony of this grand event on behalf of the Brisbane City Council. The morning stage program began with bhajans

by Sant Nirankari Group, followed by lively Bollywood and aweing Indian classical dance performances.

All dances showcased India’s culture, traditions, and history beautifully. They took the audience on a journey through India’s different states, from Punjab, Haryana, U.P, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Odisha, to Southern India, all while sitting at

38 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022

Roma Street Parklands in Brisbane! Various live bands played melodious tunes and kept us dancing the entire night. Thank you to all the talented performers for making this event exciting and reminding us of India’s diverse cultural traditions.

The GOPIO Qld. Lifetime Achievement Awards 2022 were given to Mr. Baldev Raj Sharma and Dharam Guru Pandit Ram Harsh Tripathi Ji for their enormous community work. Mr. Sharma is a wellknown name in the Indian community of Brisbane for his immense community work since he arrived in Australia in 1966 to start a new life. His contribution to Radio 4eb over four decades is an outstanding and sustained level contribution, and he is instrumental in assisting Radio Brisvaani.

Dharam Guru Pandit Ram Harsh Tripathi served tirelessly as a priest at

Laxmi Narayan Temple for eight years. During his tenure, the Mandir made significant progress, and many outstanding projects were completed. He also trained several other pandits to perform their duties and related rituals. He is the visionary leader responsible for establishing the Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir at North Maclean, serving wider ethnic Indian communities, and helping the integration of multicultural Indian ethnic communities. This Mandir is by far the biggest in Queensland and a bold initiative.

Both recipients join the GOPIO Queensland wall of fame; two recipients were chosen this year to fill in the void created during the COVID period. GOPIO representative for this session was Arpit Singh, Vice president of GOPIO Queensland; the awards were presented by Councillor Vicki

Howard, the councillor for Central Ward.

The VIP reception was held in Sunset Glade, were special guests mingled and networked before joining the parade, leading them to the main stage. Even a little rain did not dampen the spirits of the VIP guests who enjoyed GOPIO Queensland’s hospitality and sumptuous food craftily catered by Jessica Sarrangh of the Nach Baliye team. The guests included community leaders, Consular Corp, Parliamentarians, Councillors, Lord, Lady Mayoress, QPS, and Representatives of various multicultural organizations.

One of the attractions of the IDF 2022 was a beautiful parade to showcase India’s diverse culture. Brisbane Dhol Tasha with Govekar Foundation, Basava Samiti APAC, Bengali Society of Queensland, Bihar Jharkhand Sabha of Australia & NZ, India Australia Society, Kannada

Sangha Queensland, Punjabi Welfare Association, Sant Nirankari Mission Brisbane, GOPIO Gold Coast, and GOPIO Queensland attended the parade. The high-spirited Brisbane Dhol Tasha led the parade boldly with their instrumental performance. All eyes were on the beautifully dressed participants, all thanks to them! From a group of children dressed in sparkly pink lehengas and charming golden kurtas to sewn with great detail Sarees, you could see all of India’s traditional clothing represented by a diverse group of people.

The parade led the VIPS to the main arena for the formalities.

The official Party of IDF 2022 were Umesh Chandra OAM – founder president of GOPIO Queensland; Geoff Jones, Regional Director of Home Affairs; Prof Prasad Yarlagadda OAM – president CONTD. ON PG 39

Day Fair in Brisbane a great success Written by - Dr. Jyoti Sharma, PRO, GOPIO Queensland CONTD. FROM PG 38 of GOPIO Queensland; Mrs. Archana Singh - honorary Counsel for India in Queensland, Jim Chalmers MP federal Treasurer, Minister Leanne Linnard MP – member for Nudgee and Multicultural Minister, Rt Honourable Lord Mayor of Brisbane Cr Adrian Schrinner, Milton Dick MPa member of Oxley and Federal speaker, Senator Paul Scarr- senator for Queensland, Steve Dabinett Chief Superintendents to the Queensland Police Service Police.

The formalities included a formal welcome

by Prof Prasad Yarlagadda OAM, president of GOPIO Queensland, key addresses by guests, and Flag raising.

As per tradition, the Indian Flag was raised

by Mrs. Archana Singh Ji, and the Australian Flag was Raised by Rt Honourable Lord Mayor of Brisbane Councillor Adrian Schrinner. At the same time, Steve Dabinett Chief Superintendent to the Queensland Police Service, stood guard. Members of Sargam Music Academy sang the national anthems.

The popular showstopper segment was a live performance by a living legend Harbhajan Mann Ji to a packed amphitheater.

Harbhajan Ji was excited to perform in this iconic event with his live band.

The showstopper segment was presented by Expert

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Education and Visa Services and arranged by Manmohan Singh of Desi Rocks Entertainment. This segment is always a crowd pleaser, and with Harbhajan Mann on stage, it was just magical; the enthusiastic crowd all danced to his toe-tapping numbers.

Usha Chandra, Chairperson, GOPIO Women’s council, Past president, and director of sponsorship thanked the sponsors and presented them with unique plaques, The sponsors for this year were Golden Key Realty as Platinum sponsor, Expert Education, and Visa Services, Queensland Government, Brisbane City Council, Austec Services, Brisbane Indian Times, Australian Indian Radio, Springfield City Group, Australian Technology & Agricultural College, Dream Style Decorators, Gaura Travels, Multicultural Australia, Councillor Charles

Strunk, Forest Lake Ward, Terry White Chemmart, Smartline Personal Mortgage Adviser, and Tadka House.

GOPIO Queensland is committed to protecting the environment, so we embraced Roma Street Parkland’s NO-SINGLE USE PLASTICS policy, including water bottles, during this event. GOPIO Queensland arranged water fountains around the place to follow this policy and save the environment.

The event ended with a vote of thanks by Mr. Rakesh Sharma, Immediate Past President of GOPIO Qld., and he hopes to see these celebrations in Brisbane regularly.

President Prof.

Prasad Yarlagadda OAM, on behalf of the Indian community, extended sincere thanks to all attendees, guests, performers, volunteers, and sponsors.

Special acknowledgements: 4Event Coordination : 4Event admin : 4Programming team : : 4Parade Coordination : 4Stalls Management : 4Volunteers’ in charge : 4VIP Reception : 4Performers’ Registration : 4Bridge banner : 4City lighting : 4PRO Officer : 4Volunteers’ breakfast : 4GOPIO Stall : 4Sponsorship in charge : 4VIP Welcome Party : : : 4AV Presentations : 4Awards :

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GOPIO Qld EC members Rucha Dhamke Umesh Chandra OAM, Akansha Mohan, Sahil Sinha Dr Jyoti Sharma, Arpit Singh Arpit Singh, Rakesh Sharma Dr Jyoti Sharma Usha Chandra Irene Bayldon, Shital Wakale Usha Chandra Usha Chandra Dr Jyoti Sharma Rakesh Sharma Rani Sharma Usha Chandra Savita Deshpande, Malisha Abdul, Prof Prasad Yarlagadda OAM, Ragamai Yarlagadda Mayuresh Lande, Anukul Sharma Usha Chandra

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022 — 39

40 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022 — 41

Soldier from Jammu allegedly kills wife, daughter inside army camp in Assam

‘Economy weakened as result of...’: Rahul Gandhi targets BJP at Congress rally

A defence official said that what drove the soldier to kill his wife and daughter is not known yet but added that apparently there was a feud in his family

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi claimed that the BJP government is ‘taking India backward, spreading hatred and fear’ that would benefit India’s enemies such as China and Pakistan

A soldier from Jammu allegedly killed his wife and minor daughter inside an army camp of the Assam Rifles at Srikona on Saturday over a family feud, said officials.

The accused soldier, identified as Havildar Ravinder Kumar of 39 Assam Rifles, was arrested.

“Havildar (general duty) Ravinder Kumar of 39 AR killed his wife Monika Dogra, 32, and his daughter Riddhi,10, at around 0415 hours (4.15am) on Saturday. The individual belongs to Jammu’s Jourian in Akhnoor and wife hailed from Samba,” said a Defence official.

The accused shifted his family into the family quarters of 39AR at Srikona on March 10 this year.

“He was detained and shifted to quarter guard before police formally arrested him,” said the official.

The official added that the accused had used a machete to slit throats of his wife and minor daughter.

“What drove him to such an extreme step is not known yet but apparently there was a feud in the family,” he said.

The bodies were seen lying on the floor of his family quarter in a pool of blood, he added. After the ghastly crime, the accused fled and hid himself inside a temple in the army camp from where he was arrested.

The incident has sent shock waves to the residents in the army camp.

‘Hatred rising… 2 industrialists benefitting’: Rahul Gandhi at Halla Bol rally

Earlier, Rahul Gandhi said the “king” is only in ensuring profit to his friends while the public today has to think ten times before buying even the essential things.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday said since the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government came to the Centre, hatred and anger have been increasing in the country. Rahul Gandhi was addressing the Congress's Halla Bol rally at Delhi's Ramlila Maidan on Sunday.

“Hatred is rising in India. Fear of inflation and unemployment increasing in India, and due to this, hatred is rising. The BJP and RSS are dividing the country and creating fear in the country.

Only two industrialists in the country are benefitting from

this fear and hatred, ” Gandhi at the rally.

Gandhi said the country's situation is such that even if it wants, it cannot give jobs to its youth. “People are facing lots of hardships, and when the Opposition tries to raise their voice in Parliament, the Narendra Modi government does not allow it… The pressure on institutions such as media, judiciary, election commission as the government is attacking all of them,” the Congress MP said.

"Three black farm laws were brought in not to help farmers, but to benefit twothree industrialists," Gandhi added.

Gandhi also said the 'Bharat Jodo Yatra' is important as the opposition parties have to go directly

42 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022

Accusing the Narendra Modi government of weakening India in the last eight years, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday said that the grand old party along with other parties will defeat the ideology of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).

Addressing the ‘Mehengai par Hall Bol’ rally in New Delhi, the Congress leader claimed that the ruling dispensation is “taking India backward, spreading hatred and fear” that would benefit India’s enemies such as China and Pakistan. “(Prime Minister) Modi has weakened India in the last eight years. Our economic strength has weakened as a result of price rise, unemployment, hate and fear,” he said.

“It is an ideological war.

Our party along with other parties will defeat the BJP and RSS’ ideology,” Gandhi added.

Addressing thousands of party workers at Delhi’s iconic Ramlila Maidan, Gandhi called upon the party workers

to say that “Only Congress workers can save India”. He also tried to explain why the Congress has chosen to do a Bharat Jodo Yatra. “The government has closed roads to Parliament. when we try to speak in House, our mikes are turned off. So, we have to go to the people and tell them the current situation and hear what others have to say.”

“We have to go directly to people,” Gandhi added, “Media belongs to them. we can’t speak in Parliament. whoever speaks against PM Modi, ED, CBI are unleashed on them.”

Drawing a parallel between the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government and the current dispensation, the Congress leader tried to argue that while the UPA waived off farm loans worth ₹70,000 crore, the Modi government tried to bring 3 black laws. He said, the UPA brought MGNREGA but Prime Minister criticised it. “It is because of our MGNREGA that millions of people could get jobs during the Covid,” Gandhi said.

Gandhi also hailed the UPA’s land law and said while it stopped land grab, one of

the initial decisions of the Modi government was to scrap the law, referring to the ordinance the government brought in 2014 to amend the land law. “The UPA saw economic progress.

We brought 27 crore people out of poverty. In last 8 years, Modi pushed back 23 crore people back to poverty. Modi talks about New India, Make in India but Modi is taking India backward, spreading hatred and fear. This will benefit our enemies, China and Pakistan.”

During the rally, Congress Lok Sabha floor leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury urged Gandhi to return as the Congress president.

Chhattisgarh chief minister Bhupesh Baghel claimed that the BJP in power is not fighting against price rise but only fighting against Rahul Gandhi. “Now, there is a debate on ‘revdi’ (freebies).

When the Congress fights for poor people, they call it ‘revdi’.

When Modi gives to chosen people, it is ‘rabdi’ (a popular Indian sweet), not revdi,” he said.

Jharkhand: CM Soren says Oppn to fall in its own trap, MLAs return to Ranchi for trust vote Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren will seek a vote of trust during a special session of the Assembly to be held on Monday.

Legislators of the ruling coalition in Jharkhand are on their way back to Ranchi from Chhattisgarh capital Raipur where they had holed up for the past few days amid a lingering political crisis in their state.

Jharkhand chief minister Hemant Soren, whose fate as an MLA hangs in balance amid a mining lease row, said the Opposition will be trapped in the net they have laid for the ruling camp.

Soren will seek a vote of trust during a special session of the Assembly to be held on Monday.

According to a letter

to people and tell them “the truth”.

Constitution is the soul of the country, every Indian has to work towards saving it otherwise country cannot be saved, Gandhi said.

The rally comes ahead of the opposition party's 3,500km 'Bharat Jodo Yatra' from Kanyakumari to Kashmir, starting September 7, highlighting the issues of the price rise and unemployment, and promoting communal

sent to the MLAs by the Assembly secretariat, the chief minister has expressed his willingness to move a motion of confidence to prove his majority.

The Opposition BJP has also reportedly convened its legislature party’s meeting

on Sunday to chalk out its strategy in the House.

The latest crisis in the eastern state arose after the Election Commission (EC) sent its decision to governor Ramesh Bais on August 25 on a petition filed by the BJP seeking Soren’s disqualification from the

harmony.

“Anyone against Modi is attacked; I was made to sit for 55 hours at the Enforcement Directorate (ED) office but want to tell the PM- I am not scared of your ED,” Gandhi said.

Massive slogans of ‘Rahul Gandhi Zindabad’ Slogans of “Rahul Gandhi Zindabad” and “Sonia Gandhi Zindabad” reverberated through the air as thousands of Congress

supporters reached the Ramlila Maidan to raise their voice against price rise and unemployment.

Many Congress workers, who came to attend the 'Mehngai Par Halla Bol' rally, put up banners demanding Gandhi to once again lead the party.

Gandhi had resigned from the top post following the party's debacle in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. Sonia Gandhi has been leading the

Assembly in an office of profit case.

Though the EC’s decision has not yet been made official, there are rumours that the poll panel has recommended the chief minister’s disqualification as an MLA. The ruling United Progressive Alliance (UPA) has said disqualification of the CM as an MLA will not affect the government, as the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM)-CongressRJD coalition enjoys an absolute majority in the 81-member House.

The governor paid a visit to Delhi on Friday after a number of UPA MLAs met him on September 1 on the issue, triggering further speculation.

party as interim president since August 2019.

Earlier, Gandhi said the “king” is only in ensuring profit to his friends while the public today has to think ten times before buying even the essential things.

Blaming Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the price rise, Gandhi said he and his party will continue raising voices against inflation. "The king will have to listen," he tweeted.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022 — 43

FOCUS ON FIJI Sabeto, Laid To Rest A-G Clears The Air On FNPF Tui Ratu Teviuta as a chief, looked after seven Yavusa (tribes): - Conua, Investments In Fiji Airways the Leiwavuwavu, Nasara, Waruta, Lewe “Money does not leave the country and when Health Care (Fiji) Limited makes i Drasa, Ne, Lewe i Koro money that money goes as an interest payment to their accounts.”

Attorney-General and Minister for Economy, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, has cleared the air on the government’s investments in Fiji Airways.

While debating the Review Report of the FNPF 2019-2021 Annual Reports in parliament, Mr SayedKhaiyum said investments by FNPF into Fiji Airways were smart investments.

“I will tell you why, because the share price which they have paid for at $4.22.”

Before COVID-19, the share price in 2019 in Fiji Airways was $16 a share,” Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said.

“They have now bought it at $4.22 a share. With Fiji Airways flying the way it is with the borders being reopened within two years they will be able to double or triple the share value,” he

said.

“That is what you call a smart investment. They did not do it as some willy-nilly investment and in the same way they made some smart investment in EFL.” He said it was in the same way the Prime Minister highlighted the relationship with Health Care (Fiji)

Limited.

“Sir, Health Care (Fiji) Limited will provide open heart surgeries,” he said.

“Bulk of the FNPF members who faced medical problems, those procedures cannot be provided in Fiji, take out their funds and go to India or those who can afford it to Australia and New Zealand.”

“If those procedures are going to be available in Fiji what is wrong with that.”

In fact it is a benefit to members. They will be able to actually access those services here.

“Money does not leave the country and when Health Care (Fiji) Limited makes money that money goes as an interest payment to their accounts.”

“Again they do not think.”

He added that Fiji Airways was 51 per cent owned by the Fijian Government, FNPF owns 30 per cent, Unit Trust of Fiji (UTOF) owns 1.58 per cent, Qantas owns 16.45 per cent, Air New Zealand 0.68 per cent, Kiribati 0.1 per cent, Tonga 0.1 per cent, Samoa 0.043 per cent and even Nauru owns 0.031 per cent.

Ex-Lawyer Pleads Not Guilty To Theft Of $1.5m

Tui Sabeto, Ratu Tevita Susu Mataitoga was heralded as a leader who prized education as a precious commodity.

This is what mourners were told at his funeral yesterday.

Ratu Tevita died at Nadi Hospital on August 20. He was 44 years old.

He was installed as the Tui Sabeto on December 7, 2007.

Ratu Teviuta as a chief, looked after the seven Yavusa (tribes): – Conua, Leiwavuwavu, Nasara, Waruta, Lewe i Drasa, Ne, Lewe i Koro.

He is survived by his wife, Merewairita Mataitoga, four children and three grandchildren.

He was buried at the Sau Tabu, at the village of Koroiaca, Sabeto.

Biman, No Show

The PM claimed Mr Prasad ran off to New Zealand yesterday because he knew that he would be questioned Naco pleaded not guilty to the charge. The Police prosecutor objected to in Parliament as to who the MP was, bail on the grounds of public interest, the substantial amount involved nil and to prove his claims. recovery and likelihood of interference with prosecution witnesses.

Former prominent lawyer, Akuila Naco, accused of dishonestly appropriating more than $1.5 million from a bank has been granted bail by the Magistrates Court in Suva Naco appeared before Magistrate Indula Ratnayake, represented by lawyers Filimoni Vosarogo and Simione Valenitabua.

Naco has been charged with one count of theft. Naco, between May 1, and June 30, 2018, at Suva, allegedly made an application for the installation of an EFTPOS machine in his office under the Supermarket mode, where he later allegedly switched it to Tourism mode without proper compliance to the Bank’s policies and procedures.

It is further alleged that by doing so, Naco allegedly enabled the transfer of $1,550,900 from the Bank of the South Pacific to his firm’s Operating Account with the same Bank, via several transactions.

It is also alleged that the said funds were then further transferred to the Firm’s Trust Account whereby multiple cheque withdrawals were conducted in which the accused was the sole signatory.

It is alleged that through these unlawful actions, the accused managed to dishonestly appropriate and deprive the bank of the said fund.

Naco pleaded not guilty to the charge. The Police prosecutor objected to bail on the grounds of public interest, the substantial amount involved nil recovery and likelihood of interference with prosecution witnesses.

The prosecutor also made an oral application for the matter to be transferred to the High Court given that the amount was more than $50,000 which was beyond the Magistrates Court jurisdiction.

Vosarogo argued that the ordinary procedure for the offence was triable summarily in Magistrates Court.

He said that Naco was in a position to surrender his passport and reside at a fixed address which would eliminate the chances of fleeing or not coming to court.

He said Naco was a known member of the community and a former

44 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022

legal practitioner before his practicing certificate was cancelled over a year ago. He further said that Naco had been a practitioner for more than two decades.

Mr Vosarogo also highlighted that Naco had been in Police custody since 2pm on Monday and that 48 hours expired at 2pm on Wednesday.

He further said this was a clear breach of Constitution by the Police as they kept Naco in excess of 48 hours permitted by the law.

Mr Vosarogo also made an application for the name of Naco to be supressed with the presumption of innocent until proven guilty as Naco was a standing man in the community and in the legal fraternity.

Magistrate Ratnayake ruled that the court hearing was open to the public and that they had the right to

know what was happening.

He dismissed the application for name suppression. He granted bail to Naco in the sum of $5000 cash and two sureties with a bail bond of $5000 each noncash.

Naco was ordered not to reoffend, not to change his residential address, and not to interfere with any prosecution witnesses.

He was also ordered to surrender his travel documents and report to Totogo Police Station every first Saturday of the month between 8am and 6pm. A stop departure order has been issued against Naco.

The Prosecution had been ordered to file a notice of motion with affidavit in relation for their application for the case to be transferred to the High Court. The matter has been adjourned for mention on October 26.

National Federation Party leader, Biman Prasad, was to disclose to Parliament yesterday the name of the Government Member of Parliament who allegedly said the 2018 General Elections was rigged. However, he was a no-show in the august house.

He took a morning flight to New Zealand to attend the funeral of the late Jai Ram Reddy. The funeral is today.

The Minister for Employment, Productivity, Industrial Relations, Youth and Sports, Parveen Bala, is also attending the late Mr Reddy’s funeral.

But he flew on the last flight out of Fiji last night. He had attended Parliament via Zoom from the Ba. NFP’s party president, Pio Tikoduadua, refused to comment on Mr Prasad’s behalf over the alleged comments supposedly made by a Government MP. PM: Mr Prasad A Liar Given that Mr Prasad chose to fly out early when he was to make bombshell

disclosures in Parliament, Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama called Mr Prasad a liar.

The PM claimed Mr Prasad ran off to New Zealand yesterday because he knew that he would be questioned in Parliament as to who the MP was, and to prove his claims.

“Such claims made by Mr Prasad were dangerous,” Mr Bainimarama said.

“He needed to come with substantial evidence while making such claims in Parliament. Instead, he ran away.” Mr Tikoduadua said Mr Prasad did not run away.”

“He has gone to farewell the late Mr Reddy. His funeral is tomorrow, so it’s better to pay tribute to him,” Mr Tikoduadua said.

While being questioned as to why Mr Prasad had made such claims and then fly out to New Zealand, Mr Tikoduadua said Fiji Sun should ask Mr Prasad that question because Mr Prasad had made that statement.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022 — 45

Hrithik Roshan undergoes 12-week physical transformation; Fighter to kick off on November 15 with highoctane action sequences Fighter starring Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone will commence on November 15.

Fighter starring Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone is set to go on floors on November 15, 2022.

This marks the actor's second collaboration with filmmaker Siddharth Anand after 2019's War. The film will have India's first aerial sequences as the project is around the story of the Indian Air Force. While Siddharth Anand is penning the script, he is joined by ex-Army officer Ramon Chibb. He will bring his army experience as he takes on the role of screenplay writer, and will be sharing story-writing credits with Anand.

As per a report in a daily, Hrithik Roshan has kicked off his 12-week physical transformation for the movie.

The actor is shedding weight which he had gained for Vikram Vedha. Not only will he sport crew cut in the film, but he will also be undergoing regime for the role of Airforce Pilot. The action sequences will be as realistic and believable.

Fighter will reportedly kick off on November 15 with Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone. They will be shooting high-octane action

and dramatic sequences.

The film will be VFX-heavy as well. The film is set for September 28, 2023 release.

Meanwhile, Siddharth Anand is currently busy with the much-anticipated film Pathaan which stars Deepika Padukone alongside Shah Rukh Khan and John Abraham. On the other hand, Hrithik Roshan has completed the shoot for the Hindi remake of Vikram Vedha with Saif Ali Khan which is set for September 30, 2022 release. Deepika Padukone has an array of line up including a film with Prabhas, The Intern remake, Pathaan, and more.

Parineeti Chopra to help clean up beaches of Mumbai post Ganpati visarjan on September 10, watch video Parineeti Chopra has been a vocal ocean conservationist and she has been roped in to raise awareness of the importance of cleaning up the beaches in Mumbai.

Parineeti has, in the past, posted videos of her clearing plastic waste underwater in a bid to raise her voice to keep oceans clean.

In a video posted by her, she says, “I wish you all a very very happy Ganeshotsav and hope that Ganpati Bappa bestows us with wisdom and prosperity. As we celebrate this beautiful auspicious festival, we tend to forget what happens after the festivities are over.”

She adds, “Every year during ‘Ganpati Visarjan’, we leave behind immense litter on our beaches that unfortunately ends up in the water. This not only pollutes the sea but also causes a lot of damage that can cause mass deaths of our marine animals. As we celebrate this festival with

full vigour we must also take the responsibility to clean up with the same energy and protect both our marine life as well as our own home planet.”

She has joined hands with Divjay foundation and the Bhamla foundation for this cause and she urges people to join her for this cause. She says, “On the 10th of September 2022 join me to clean up our beaches & make them debris free. I am sure that would make Bappa really happy. So, let us make Cleanotsav 2022 a grand success.”

46 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2022

Brahmastra Hyderabad event: S S Rajamouli says that he saw himself in Ayan Mukerji; blurts out about Nagarjuna’s superpower in the Ranbir Kapoor starrer Yesterday, on September 2, the team of Brahmastra was all set to rock the audiences with a grand prerelease event at Ramoji Film City, Hyderabad. The event, however, got cancelled at the last minute. Fortunately, the team of the film put up a memorable programme at a five-star hotel in a matter of a few hours. S S Rajamouli, who's presenting the film, was present and his RRR hero Jr NTR was the chief guest. Actresses Alia Bhatt and Mouni Roy were also present at this event.

S S Rajamouli, at the event, explained at the onset why the Ramoji Film City event couldn't take place, "The arrangements made were fantastic. But due to the Ganesh Visarjan, the police was not able to provide enough personnel for the event. Hence, the event couldn't take place."

He continued, "Ranbir Kapoor in Brahmastra has the power to throw fire. We had planned to create that live on stage at the event. Jr NTR was also going to be a part of the performance. It was an act that I was looking forward to at the event. Hopefully, we'll do the performance at the success bash of Brahmastra!"

S S Rajamouli then

spoke highly of Brahmastra producer Karan Johar, "There's a lot of difference between the film that he and I make. But I really appreciate the passion that he puts in, in his films. 5 years ago, when he said that he's attempting this kind of a film with a mad guy called Ayan Mukerji, and when he told me to be a part of it, I agreed because of the respect and friendship I have for him. But then, I didn't know anything about Brahmastra."

He added, "When Ayan Mukerji started narrating this story about the Astras to me, all my childhood fantasies came alive. The other thing I really liked is the time and energy he has invested in creating the Astraverse. I felt that such kind of film should

be supported in whatever way possible, in the South of India. It is talking about the superheroes which are there in our itihaas and are mentioned in our puranas.

Everything about Brahmastra is about Indianness and Indian emotions."

Ayan Mukerji couldn't be a part of this grand event S S Rajamouli stated, "Ayan called me that still some work is left on the film. He asked me whether he should stay in Mumbai or come to Hyderabad for this event.

That's when I saw myself in him. I insisted that he should stay back and that we'll take care of the promotions because ultimately, it is the film that is going to speak to the audience."

S S Rajamouli raised laughs as he blurted out

details of Nagarjuna Akkineni's character in Brahmastra, "Ayan will have a heart attack! But you all have seen in the trailer that he (Nagarjuna Akkineni) possesses the Nandi Astra.

My pet name, interestingly is Nandi. Hence, I felt so happy.

Ayan has shown the power of Nandi Astra in a fantastic way. I got excited by it."

He continued, "There's one more interesting connection here. There are many Shivas here. One is obviously Ranbir, who plays Shiva in the film.

Nagarjuna, meanwhile, is known for one of the greatest films in Indian history, Shiva.

Nagarjuna and Shiva are inseparable. My name also means Shiva. So there are three Shiva's in the film."

S S Rajamouli then praised lead actor Ranbir Kapoor by narrating, "Once during RRR promotions in Mumbai, we had a get together. Tarak (Jr NTR) asked me to put the songs of Ranbir's film Rockstar (2011).

Tarak started singing the songs with Ranbir on television!

Ranbir was present in the room and he was awestruck!

That song was not even in Hindi. It was in Kashmiri language I think. And this guy, Tarak, was singing the song (comfortably)!"

Neetu Kapoor remembers Rishi Kapoor on his 70th birth anniversary; twins with him in this unseen picture Not only for the globe, but the year 2020 took a toll on the Indian film industry as well.

While the sudden outbreak of COVID-19 kept everything on hold, many legendary actors also left for their heavenly abode. One among them was Rishi Kapoor. And, this day, September 4, 2022, marks the late actor’s 70th birth anniversary.

On the occasion of her late husband’s birth anniversary, wife Neetu Kapoor took to her verified social media handle and shared a happy picture of the couple. In the

Release Date 09 September 2022 16 September 2022 16 September 2022 16 September 2022 16 September 2022 16 September 2022 16 September 2022 16 September 2022 23 September 2022 23 September 2022 23 September 2022

photo, Rishi can be seen posing with an ear-to-ear smile while Neetu is standing

Movie Name Audience Score Brahmastra 82 Saroj Ka Rishta 20 Jahaan Chaar Yaar 0 Middle-Class Love 60 Modi Ji Ki Beti 17 Siya 60 Matto Ki Saikil 50 Jogi 0 Dhokha - Round D Corner 72 Chup 75 Babli Bouncer 58

next to him. The couple can be seen twinning in black colored outfits. Giving a

Release Date 23 September 2022 23 September 2022 30 September 2022 30 September 2022 30 September 2022 05 October 2022 05 October 2022 05 October 2022 07 October 2022 07 October 2022 07 October 2022

short caption to the photo post, Kapoor wrote, “happy birthday” along with a red heart emoticon.

On the other hand, Rishi Kapoor’s daughter Riddhima Kapoor Sahani also remembered her dad and dedicated a heartwarming picture post for her dad.

The image featured a photoframe of Rishi. The reflection of Riddhima and Ranbir is quite evident on the glass photo frame. Riddhima’s caption read, “In your reflection we live and love…

Happy Birthday Papa”.

Movie Name Audience Score Prem Geet 3 75 Avatar (English) 60 Vikram Vedha 79 Ponniyin Selvan: Part-1 60 Woh 3 Din 0 Tejas 72 White 34 Godfather 40 Aa Bhi Ja O Piya 73 Goodbye 60 Hindutva 50

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2022 — 47

Who provides regular monitoring for chronic hepatitis in Australia?

Any person who has been diagnosed with chronic hepatitis B or chronic hepatitis C, needs regular monitoring. This can be done by a GP or a specialist – either a liver specialist or an infectious diseases Specialist.

Most people can be monitored by their GPs and only a small group of people with significant hepatitis issues need to be monitored by a specialist, such as people with cirrhosis or liver cancer, pregnancy, co-infections, being immunosuppressed, or if has been treated previously.

Despite GPs being able to provide monitoring for chronic hepatitis, not all GPs can treat chronic hepatitis B. Only some GPs with special training can– their details can be found at https://ashm. org.au/prescriber-maps/.

Chronic hepatitis C can be treated and also be cured with medication. All GPs can treat chronic hepatitis C. Only a few people will need to see a specialist for this treatment.

specialist’s clinic and arrange an appointment. They will let you know when you can be seen and what information you will need to bring with you. Seeing a private specialist either at a Private Hospital or in a private clinic has fees associated which will need to be paid by the patient.

You should be told what fees you will need to pay when you book the appointment.

What happens if you are referred to a private specialist?

You will need to contact the

What happens if you are referred to a public hospital?

• When the referral is

received by the hospital it is checked by a doctor to see how urgently the patient should be seen – the referral will be categorised as 1, 2 or 3. Category 1 being the most urgent.

• The patient is then placed on a waiting list with the appointments made when an appropriate appointment time is available.

• Waiting times for appointments can be delayed for the following reasons: o Limited appointments

available. o The availability of specialists – as with other workplaces, people working in hospitals can also become sick, move to new towns/hospitals, resign, or retire. o Hospitals may need to reduce services if there are pressures on the hospital systems such as: • Natural disasters – for instance floods • The current COVID pandemic – where the Government may tell the Health Department to

delay certain categories of patients being seen.

• The most important things to remember if you are waiting for a Specialist appointment: o See your GP if you are unwell or have symptoms that you are concerned about.

• While on a waiting list, you still need to see your GP regularly – usually every 6-12 months for blood tests and ultrasounds (depending on your age and where you were born).

If necessary, the GP can contact the hospital if they think you need a more urgent appointment.

• If you change any contact details such as phone number, address or email you MUST let the hospital or private specialist know as this is

how they will contact you if there is an appointment available or if you need any further tests etc.

Always remember that if you need an interpreter, you can ask for one – all specialists and GPs can access interpreters for free.

Public or private Specialists can provide the same quality of care.

For more information, please contact ECCQ: Website: www.eccq. com.au/bbv Phone: 07-3844 9166 If you live in Cairns, you can also contact: Rhondda Lewis Viral Hepatitis Health Coordinator Phone: 07-4226 4761 Email: Rhondda.

Lewis@health.qld.gov.au

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

Spring Skin care

7 Easy Steps for Gorgeous Looking Skin moisturizer keep your skin hydrated that lead to younger looking eyes, wrinkle free and firm.

Nimisha Modi

Hetvi Hair & Beauty 0412350013

5. Lighter Moisturizer Hey Girls, In Winter many of us switch out our cozy sweaters for layered sheer tops, the same transition needs to be done with skincare. You know that winter skin requires a heavier moisturizer and lots of hydration due to dryness. But when the weather shifts from "cold and dry" to "humid and moist" it’s important that your products, and the way you use them, reflect that seasonal change. In spring, your natural oils come back into balance after the dry winter. To help you decipher what to shop for in spring weather here are seven natural beauty tips for updating your skincare routine to get that glow back!

1. Exfoliating Scrub Let's face it winter weather doesn’t exactly show off glowing looking skin.

Luckily, it’s easier to achieve that radiant look when spring rolls around. During the winter months, too much exfoliation can strip moisture from your skin leaving it looking irritated

7. Regular facial and dry. That said, using the right gentle exfoliating scrub two to three times a week will leave your skin looking smooth and radiant.

That is why you need to use Exfoliating Scrub that will refresh and brighten your skin. Gentle and natural scrub eases away impurities and banishes clogged pores with the power Of crème nourishes newly revealed skin for a brighter and younger looking complexion.

It can be used on sensitive and acne prone skin.

skin health. That means applying SPF 30 moisturizer under your makeup, which will help protect you from the sun and hold your foundation on for longer, too. Sunscreens can clog pores and cause breakouts so look for the ones that say non-comedogenic. Mineral sunscreens with active ingredients like zinc oxide tend to be less irritating to reactive skin types and gel formulations tend to have a lighter texture and work well with oily skin.

2. SPF There will be more sunshine which means SPF is even more important now than it was over the last couple of months. You’ve heard over and over that you must always wear at least 30 SPF even when you see no sun. Protecting your skin from the sun's rays is crucial for maintaining

3. Drink Cucumber Water As it turns out, hydration is just as important for your skin in the spring as it is in the winter.

Cucumbers, lemon, and mint are classic spa water combos. The lemon and mint may aid digestion and the cucumber rehydrates along with delivering anti-

48 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022

inflammatory properties.

Detox water recipe to get you started - 1 lemon juice,1 glass tap water, few slices of fresh cucumber and few mint leaves.

4. Eye moisturizer

Spring weather means humidity and rain, which can leave you with slick, greasy looking skin. Use a lighter moisturizer than the one you were probably using in the winter.

Eye moisturizer (Castor oil/ coconut oil/ almond oil) may sound like something you don't need until you're older, but it's smart to start using it now as an investment in your future skin. The skin around your eye is incredibly thin and using your regular

6. Use Natural Makeup Your choice of makeup is just as important for the health of your skin as your choice of skincare products.

Always make sure you are using healthy makeup, like mineral makeup without parabens and mineral oil.

And of course, don't forget to take it off at night!

If you were waiting for an excuse to treat yourself to a facial, here it is: You really need one! While it's great to practice good skin care, that doesn't necessarily mean you should be skipping out on professional treatments.

And even though you may not suffer from severe acne or other chronic conditions, your complexion will still reap the benefits from the facial massage that you can’t replicate on your own.

So Girls, look at the change of season as an opportunity to reassess your skin care routines. with these seven easy steps you’ll be glowing in no time! See you next time. Nimisha

Call: (07) 3192 5188

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022 — 49

September-2022

Aries ( 21st March to 20th April )

Taurus ( 21st April to 21st May )

Gemini ( 22nd May to 21st June )

Rahu and Mars indicate that you may receive a sudden inflow of financial benefit this month, and there is a strong chance that you likely to acquire property shares. If you were planning on getting a loan, this month is a good time to do so. A new coworker would be join at the office. There is a fair chance that you can achieve the desired results in your daily work.

However, Rahu and Mars are indicating that you should keep patience when responding to or sending mail. The transit of Venus suggests that you pursue a new concept that would bring you success. Many of you who work in fashion or the arts may achieve the desired success in your career projects. This month, you would become distracted from your studies due to a poor decision, as Rahu and Mars are an unfavourable aspects for students. It would be best if you were serious about your schedule and strictly adhere to your everyday routine related to school and assignments. This month would be average in terms of wellbeing, with some health-related preparations. You should stick to your regular workout schedule and be consistent with it. This would provide insurance against unexpected health problems. Because of the Rahu and Mars transit, now is not the time to be in a relationship. A married pair can become suspicious or jealous. Avoid arguing with your partner and maintain a humble demeanour. Some of you can be irritable and take your partner for granted. However, Jupiter's transit indicates that you are likely to overcome obstacles if you maintain a positive attitude and approach.

This is a good month for most of you to improve your mood and gain more money. You'd want to get the best choice for discovering the route that's been lacking for a long time. When your mind is dull, you would be more opposed to something that can enhance your beauty and harmony. This week, your siblings would be more accepting of you. They would do their part to make your dreams a reality. Your oversensitivity is impeding your personal growth. It would be best if you relaxed, take things less seriously rather than responding to them. You are likely to have more time to spend with your children when you recognise the importance of parental care in their lives. Family issues and career-related uncertainties would complicate women's lives. This is a month when girls outperform boys in academics. The transit of Venus and the Moon would be beneficial in all aspects of life especially for women. It is also here where you would find the fruits of your labour and prosperity. This month, you'd also like to find the right group of friends to hang out with. If you are in a family company, you would not find it lucrative and would incur losses. It is not a good idea this year, depending on the help of business partners/colleagues. If you are in the military, you must be highly cautious in carrying out your duties because auditors/inspecting officials are likely to catch you.

This month, you may receive all of your happiness from relatives. Still, you must be careful with your conversations because the Venus transit indicates that there would be tension due to ego clashes or miscommunication. Taking the initiative would provide you with many opportunities at work. A journey to a foreign land or a visit to a religious site may be on your way. Regarding money and finance, you should have a strategy before making any significant investments, as Rahu and Mars are giving hints. This month, an old friend would provide valuable assistance in your company. Financial issues in your company can be resolved with the aid of your close friends. The boss may provide assistance, but the only senior from your profile would delegate work to you. There is a chance that the project would be delivered to you, but there is also a chance that it may be delayed. Saturn and Venus would demand more commitment and hard work in your career this month. Maintain your resolve and break your strategy down into baby steps to achieve the desired results, as Saturn provides a hint. You would enjoy your love life, and singles may find the partner you are looking for. Getting together with your partner's family will also bring you happiness in your love life. This month may bring unexpected expenses for wellness and interior improvements or repairs. There may be unanticipated short-distance travel, resulting in unplanned expenditure. You would feel compelled to visit a religious site, which may incur additional costs for you. Higher education and researchrelated work can be effective—success in the examination and projectrelated matters. You must maintain a positive attitude about your studies, avoid becoming hostile, and avoid being influenced by others, as this would distract you from your goal.

Cancer ( 22nd June to 22nd July )

Leo ( 23rd July to 22nd August )

Virgo ( 23rd August to 22nd September )

The monthly horoscope predicts that Sept would be fruitful. There would be some difficulties, but you would quickly solve them. The planetary augury for this sign's natives throughout the month suggests a positive pattern in the month. There is a good possibility that you can achieve positive outcomes on both the personal and professional fronts. Many who are doing business would make good progress over the next few months. You may face financial difficulties as a result of your expenses.

As a result, you should avoid taking any unnecessary risks at this time.

Medical costs may be incurred for oneself, one's partner, or a nearby family member. This month would be slightly tricky for students. On the educational front, you are likely to encounter difficulties or barriers.

You would, however, have family support during the month, which can provide you with emotional support and motivation. In terms of your family life and fitness, the month may bring mixed results. The monthly horoscope predicts that the native would remain focused on their kin.

They would seek shelter in the warmth of the family because they are deeply nostalgic about the good old days. The native's other priority would be to save money for a stable future for the family. This month, foreign-based income sources would be critical because they can be a good source of money. There's also the chance of a business trip to another country. You may need to take out loans this month to keep your finances afloat.

Pack your belongings and prepare to leave for work this month. You can expect this journey to bring you a lot of luck. Things most likely unfold according to your hopes. Those looking for a new job are likely to have limited success this month. They should be patient and wait for opportunities to knock. Engineers and others working in the area of technology should avoid making hasty decisions. Particularly when it comes to a new venture in which they are not overly optimistic. Maintain a low profile and make a change only when the circumstances are more favourable. Accountants must exercise extreme caution this month.

Minor mistakes may land them in big trouble. Speculation would help real estate brokers and builders. Projects that had been delayed are likely to be approved. It's going to be a good month. This has been a positive month for teachers because they have met their objectives and have had the opportunity to demonstrate their commitment and dedication at work. In september, income is expected to come from unexpected sources. Anticipated financial issues are minor. Many who are married are likely to have a wonderful week full of laughter and fun.

They would be proud of one another and shall love and care for one another. This month, children should take good care of their parents.

Their love and care would make their parents and grandparents proud and happy. You should schedule some fun vacations, either for business or pleasure. You can also take a family vacation this week.

The harder you work this month, the better your chances would be. New prospects would knock on your door, and you should not let them go. This could be a good time for job holders to strengthen their place by putting in the extra effort. Business owners are more likely to venture into new territories to maximise revenue and switch over. As the month starts, some financial benefits would help you strengthen your position. During the middle of this month, the stars would be more in your favour. Any encouraging monetary gains might give you a reason to rejoice in the second half of the month. You can encounter see-saw situations in your relationships at the start of this month. Share your emotions with your loved ones, friends, and family. You would be surprised at how this leads to positivity and a period of understanding and peace. Give the relationship your undivided attention so that you can deepen your bond. You can concentrate on your studies, and your success would motivate you to work harder. Your intellect and hard work would help you do well in your studies and exams. You may have good health during this month, but only everyday stress may be causing you to feel exhausted at the start of this month. From the middle of this month, you would be able to recover your fitness. This month's end may cause you to become a little sluggish. Your rash behaviour can have an impact on your overall health.

Libra ( 23rd September to 22nd October )

Scorpio ( 23rd October to 22nd November )

Sagittarius ( 23rd November to 21st December )

This month, your diplomatic style and communication skills may come in handy personally and professionally. With Jupiter's blessings, you may see good results from family and savings this month, but you should be cautious or seek professional advice before making significant investments. You are likely to have some disagreements with your siblings due to miscommunication, and you are often encouraged not to get into an argument because this can result in financial loss.

Commitment would be going to play an important role at work, and it is suggested to be attentive at work before sending mail, texts, or calls. Keep arguing and workplace politics to a minimum. Many of you in the media should take care of your client relationships because planetary transit is not your favourite. Some of you might experience a delay in receiving your expected exam results. Don't get distracted by a friendship. There is a chance of conflict with your partner this month, but instead of criticising each other for past mistakes, use this month to revitalise your relationship with healthy communication. Some of you can incur property-related expenses and find work in a foreign country.

With Saturn's presence this month, hard work and dedication would be in high demand. Don't depend on luck to achieve your goals in your job and career. There would be new employees at the workplace. A marriage proposal would be made unexpectedly. Many of you who are looking for love arrangements may need to wait a little longer.

During this time, you may not feel good about yourself and may lack stamina. This can occur as a result of three planets in your horoscope retrogressing. There is a chance of disputes with female family members over petty matters. To avoid getting into verbal fights with your loved ones, you must have adequate control over your tongue. Also, attempt to reduce your costs and build your savings. This month presents excellent opportunities for purchasing a new home or property. This is an excellent time to schedule business trips. Politicians have a decent possibility of gaining political power and notoriety during this period. Some of you may take an active role in social work and volunteer to assist the needy and poor. Furthermore, your curiosity in the study and occult science may be piqued. This month may provide fresh prospects for those working in the media. When dealing with your children as a mother, you act more like an old-school individual who believes more in moral ideals.

This would only serve to distance you from your children further. You place a higher value on mutual interests and emotional compatibility.

It would be best if you also prepared yourself to accept what others have to say and support their beliefs. Otherwise, it may cause you to become estranged from others. Spending time analysing your current physical state can only make you more energetic and pleasant. In some ways, this would allow you to look for a solution to your everyday boredom, which is frustrating and depressing.

The month is a mash-up of numerous things. For natives, the planetary influence has mixed effects.

Jupiter is in a favourable position and bestows the needed blessing from the Almighty. Furthermore, Saturn and Mars are conjunct in a bright house. This planetary position may bestow upon you the ability to persuade others, which would aid you in achieving your objectives. You are likely to be open-minded, adaptable, expansive, and optimistic in your outlook. All of these characteristics may assist you in overcoming life's obstacles. This is the month that may cause an imbalance in your family relationships and make you more spiritually and religiously inclined. Students should concentrate on their studies and avoid wasting crucial time on frivolous pastimes.

Try to get out of this mood; it's not your fault because you've done everything you could. You would be clever, generous, engaging, and fascinating, giving you a never dull, constantly busy, and very alive personality to deal with. You may come under a lot of financial stress or have a problem with your self-esteem. Though there is undoubtedly some truth to the picture, your concern is currently exaggerated. Your capacity to approach problems confidently would enable you to deal with certain difficult situations calmly. Try to keep your emotions in check when dealing with people. You need someone's support to enhance your energy and enthusiasm if you're feeling insecure.

Women would enjoy a good week both at work and at home. Others may notice that you are more liked and cared for.

Capricorn ( 22nd December to 20th January )

Aquarius ( 21st January to 18th February )

Pisces ( 19th February to 20th March )

This month is ideal for singles as well as couples in a relationship. You would be able to spend more time with your lover than on average. Show your love for your mate and produce some beautiful moments together, according to your monthly forecast. This month, however, may not be ideal for married couples. You would be irritated due to stress from work. Sept would not provide favourable conditions for good conversation. It is best to avoid getting into altercations with your partner. Pregnant women should exercise additional caution around roofs and on slick surfaces, according to your monthly horoscope. This is not the month to engage in speculative ventures. Take the appropriate investment route that would allow you to increase your profits in the long run.

This is also the period when you would be pleased with the results that you receive.

This week, success is likely to be your trademark in your professional life. The approval of a new project by the authority may provide you with the opportunity to grow and implement new ideas that were previously only on paper. There may be times when your fatherly personality may comes-up, as those near you will feel safe, protected, and happy. You would be pleased and satisfied that you were able to assist others. This week, you can transform something that appeared unpleasant or wasted into a new shape with great potential for progress. At this time, communication with partners, clients, and essential others would be fruitful. The future appears to be promising. People who associate with you would regard you as trustworthy because of your loyalty, sincerity, and consistent support. Consider your personal development opportunities more carefully, as it is time to live for yourself and your family. Success would come your way as a result of the efforts you have made for society.

Your dedication and hard work are likely to be widely recognised and applauded. This will motivate you to continue working on your tasks.

Work is your source of excitement, and you must not rest your body even though you are fatigued. However, this week may bring about a complete transformation in you, making you long for a change of scenery and a chance to renew your mind and body. You are likely to overcome minor obstacles in your path to carrying out the tasks entrusted to you as a family member and a social member.

This month, your diplomatic approach and communication skills going to be helpful personally and professionally. With Jupiter's blessings, you can expect excellent results from family and savings this month, but you should exercise prudence or seek professional counsel before making significant investments. You are likely to have some disagreements with your siblings due to misunderstandings, and you are also recommended not to get scared because this can result in financial loss. Commitment would play a significant role at work and be highly attentive at work before sending mail, texts, or calls. Keep arguing and office politics to a minimum.

Those in the media should take care of your client relationships because planetary transit is not in your favour. Some of you may experience a delay in receiving your expected exam results. Don't get distracted by a relationship. There is a chance of conflict with your spouse this month, so instead of blaming each other for past mistakes, utilise this month to revitalise your connection through good dialogue. Some of you may incur property-related expenses and find work in a foreign nation. With Saturn's influence this month, hard effort and tenacity would be in high demand.

Don't rely on luck to achieve your goals in your job and business. There would be new employees at the workplace. A marriage proposal may be made unexpectedly. Those of you who are waiting for love arrangements need to wait a little longer.

50 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022 — 51

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2020 — 51

‘Not an illegal substance’: North Melbourne legend Wayne Carey responds to white powder saga North Melbourne legend Wayne Carey has responded to reports was caught with a bag of white powder in a Perth casino last week.

North Melbourne legend Wayne Carey has responded to reports he will be banned from Crown Resorts premises for two years after being caught with a bag of white powder in a Perth casino last week.

According to The Herald Sun, the 51-year-old was evicted from Crown Burswood on Thursday evening after a zip-lock bag containing a white substance dropped from his pocket onto a gaming room table.

Carey, who commentates for Channel 7, was staying in Perth ahead of Saturday evening’s elimination final between Fremantle and the Western Bulldogs at Perth Stadium.

The former Kangaroos captain was subsequently prohibited from attending Channel 7’s telecast of this month’s Brownlow Medal count at the Crown Palladium in Melbourne, according to the News Corp report.

“We are aware of a recent incident at Crown Perth where a patron was escorted from the premises,” a Crown spokesperson told The Herald Sun.

“The incident was handled within our standard procedures and due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide further comment. At Crown Perth our priority remains keeping our guests, employees and the community safe.

“As trained professionals, our employees are entrusted to maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for customers and staff at all times, and will take necessary action to ensure these policies are abided by.”

But speaking to The Age, Carey claimed the substance was an anti-inflammatory he took with dinner.

“It was not an illegal substance, it was offered to security. Security didn’t take it,” he said.

“They just said it’s not a great look, I understood that, and we left without incident.”

Channel 7’s managing director Lewis Martin confirmed to News Corp that Carey has agreed to temporarily stand down from his role.

Last month, reports emerged of an “ugly altercation” between Carey and former teammate Anthony Stevens at North Melbourne’s 1996 premiership gathering at the Railway Hotel in Yarraville.

The reported verbal stoush occurred more than 20 years after Carey’s infamous cheating scandal with Stevens’ then-wife forced him out of the Kangaroos.

“It’s a pretty sad sequel,” footy journalist Sam Edmund told SEN’s Dwayne’s World in August.

“Witnesses said Carey went at Stevens, accusing him of talking behind his back and telling people he

“Whole of Punjab as well India stands with Arshdeep today”, says Punjab sports minister Gurmeet Singh The Punjab youngster had dropped the catch of Pakistan batsman Asif Ali in the 18th over of the Pakistan Innings with Pakistan requiring 31 runs off 16 balls.

Punjab Sports minister Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer has encouraged Indian pacer Arshdeep Singh after the 24-year-old dropped a catch against Pakistan in the India Pakistan super four match in Asia Cup, which India lost, in Dubai on Sunday. Talking to Singh’s mother Baljeet Kaur over phone, Hayer told Kaur that Punjab as well whole of India is proud of Singh and youth like Singh are an inspiration for the youth in the country.

“You all should be in high spirits. Whole of Punjab as well India stands with Arshdeep today. People, who have not played cricket ever, are making such comments.

Arshdeep carried the hopes of 140 crore Indians and it’s a big thing for a 24-yearold youngster. The captain showed faith over Arshdeep for bowling the last over and that speaks of Arshdeep’s talent,” Hayer told Baljeet

Kaur, mother of Arshdeep Singh on Monday morning.

The Punjab youngster had dropped the catch of Pakistan batsman Asif Ali in the 18th over of the Pakistan Innings with Pakistan requiring 31 runs off 16 balls.

With Pakistan needing seven runs in the last over, Singh bowled the last over and removed Asif Ali off the fourth ball of the over with Pakistan requiring two runs off two balls.

Iftikhar Khan scored two runs off the penultimate ball to hand Pakistan the win.

“A lot of people fail to see the hard work done by the players to play for

52 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2022

India. Arshdeep bowled the last over superbly. When Arshdeep will come after winning the Asia Cup, I will accompany you to welcome him at the airport. Please tell Arshdeep to concentrate on the rest of the matches and he is an inspiration for the youth. We have seen players like Sachin Tendulkar too not scoring runs in some matches and things like these happen in sports,” Hayer said.

Former Indian hockey captain Sandeep Singh has also come out in support of the fast bowler who is facing brutal social media trolls for dropping the catch Meanwhile, Arshdeep’s mother Baljeet Kaur, who along with her Husband Darshan Singh, is in UAE to watch the Asia Cup matches, told Hayer that the whole Indian team is with Arshdeep Singh.

“When we sat with him after the match, Arshdeep told us not to worry and he will give his best as always.

The whole Indian team has supported him and he will answer the critics with his performance,” Kaur told Hayer.

couldn’t be contacted and to not bother trying to catch up with him, but then being fine in-person.”

But Carey quickly refuted the report, telling Triple M the following day: “The first story said came to blows and that’s factually incorrect. There were no blows.

“There was a firm conversation – altercation I think is even too firm to say that occurred.

“I wanted to have a conversation about Stevo, I was worried about him. I said, ‘I’m worried about you,’ and he obviously took a little bit of umbrage to me saying I was worried about him.

“I said I’m worried about, I want him to look after himself like people want me to look after myself.

“To say that it was a massive altercation and it came to blows and then we left there and everyone was upset with everyone and it was a big thing is totally incorrect – that’s the disappointing thing about it.

“It wasn’t a story and still isn’t a story.

“I hope I’ve just cleared up that once again this has been blown into something it wasn’t.

“I’m not sure why it should always be talked about – it doesn’t make sense.”

Ganga Prasad of Brisbane won medals at Masters Athletics championships

Ganga Prasad won 8 medals, 7 Gold medals and 1 Silver medal, at Sunshine Coast Masters Athletics championships in Athletics.

Ganga competes in Masters Athletics championships around the world representing

Fiji and Australia as well.

Ganga’s next championship is international competition Pan Pacific Masters Athletics championship which will be held in Gold Coast, in November 2022. It’s held every 2 years.

Grassroot Cricket Fund Gives $2M to the Heart of Community Cricket Australia’s professional cricketers will continue their commitment to nurture community cricket this season by making up to $2 million available through the Grassroots Cricket Fund (GCF).

The GCF is a partnership between the Australian Cricketers’ Association (ACA) and Cricket Australia (CA) that has so far provided $10.6 million to support more than 2,000 local Clubs and Centres.

There will be two new targeted GCF grant categories this season to help clubs and centres meet goals such as increasing participation, improving volunteer experience and ensuring they can provide assistance with playing costs.

For the first time, Clubs and Centres can apply for the provision of an AED Defibrillator Package to help safeguard the wellbeing of their players.

This initiative was endorsed by former member of The Wiggles, Greg Page, and Australian Test batter, Darren Lehmann.

Both Page and Lehmann

survived heart attacks and are all too aware just how important immediate attention is for those who suffer an attack.

Darren Lehmann said: “It’s a great initiative from the ACA, the players especially, giving back to community clubs.

“With the help of Greg and Heart of the Nation it’d be fantastic to get these little machines that save lives to as many clubs as possible.

“If you can get to them between three and five minutes, you can save 70 per cent of people. It’s a valuable tool.”

Todd Greenberg, Chief Executive Officer, ACA said: “Our players are very conscious of strengthening the links between elite cricket and club cricket.

The investment of millions of dollars of players’ money into the Grassroots Cricket Fund is as good a demonstration as you’ll get in to how committed they are to the health of the Australian game.

“The Fund has already provided thousands of clubs and centres throughout

Australia with funds to buy equipment and go towards improved facilities that will strengthen grassroots cricket for generations to come.

“This is a really important summer for community cricket clubs and centres after a very difficult two years. The players know just how important these clubs are in building social capital in their local communities.”

Nick Hockley, Chief Executive Officer, Cricket Australia, said: “We’re delighted the Grassroots Cricket Fund will continue to make a valuable contribution to community cricket. The great work the players are doing to give something back to the game is making a real difference.

“We’re particularly pleased the grants are being used to provide support for the volunteers who do so much for their communities and to fund initiatives that help grow participation.

These are extremely important objectives for our game.”

Head to www. grassrootscricketfund.com. au for further information.

ABC Bullion rises to Diwali challenge with launch of limited-edition gold and silver coins ABC Bullion, Australasia’s largest independent precious metals and bullion dealer, has launched two new, limited-edition products – gold and silver coins embossed with Lakshmi, the Hindu Goddess of Wealth and Prosperity in celebration of Diwali at an exclusive event attended by prominent Indian community and business leaders on 30 August 2022.

ABC Bullion’s Diwali coins are part of the annual mintage and the exquisitely crafted 5g gold coin and 1oz silver coins are expected to sell out in anticipation of the festival of lights, which is celebrated by one of the largest and fastest growing diasporas in Australia.

The Indian diaspora has registered 47 per cent growth in the past four years according to Census 2021.

Janie Simpson, Managing Director of ABC Bullion, said: “ABC Bullion is a leading and

inclusive organisation who understands their customers’ special needs, especially aligned to festive periods such as Diwali. Australian Indians have made significant contributions to the Australian economy and enriched our multicultural society.

To celebrate Indian people, culture, and accomplishments, we wanted to create something specifically for

this flourishing community which we hope will be well received. Diwali celebrations are the perfect opportunity to tap into the very auspicious tradition of buying gold and silver among Indians.”

Each coin is backed by its purity certificate and comes in a luxurious presentation box. These limited-edition Diwali coins will be available for purchase on a special Diwali link on the ABC

Ghazal Maestro PANKAJ UDHAS - Live in Concert at Sydney Opera House CONTD. FROM PG 1 The magical show was presented by Akash Lodia and Commonwealth Bank of Australia.

Sydney Opera House has undergone a massive renovation, with enhanced sound and lighting capabilities. This was the first Indian concert to be held in the Sydney Opera House after the upgrades.

The sound, Lighting, and visuals were superb; Kartik Mohandas, as the MC, lived up to his name; Akash Lodia welcomed everyone to the show and thanked the sponsors and supporters. He unfolded the story of their family’s relationship with Pankaj Ji and how he is now the second generation organizing a show for the same artist. His father had arranged the original show for Pankaj Ji in Fiji.

Pankaj Ji, in his opening remarks, expressed his sincere gratitude to the family.

The packed concert hall was full of eager music lovers who just loved the concert and were very responsive; they had come from New Zealand, Fiji, and interstate to be at this historic concert. The cheer, clapping, applauding, and general vibe of the show was electrifying.

Pankaj Udhas Ji, in an interview a few years back, had described how got his unique style of singing. “When I started singing, I was influenced by Begum Akhtar and Mehdi Hassan’s styles. But as I grew up, I realized I shouldn’t keep singing like them. I wanted to create my own space. That’s when I started making a style of my own. I wanted to reach out to the masses, as the ghazal was always limited to a small audience.

It was meant for people who could understand Urdu and Persian. I wanted to make it more accessible. So, I composed the ghazal, ‘Aap jinke kareeb hote hain’. Anyone who could speak Hindi could understand it. I Call: (07) 3192 5188

composed it in such a tune that everyone could sing along. That clicked, and I realized that I had found the success formula. So, in all my albums, I have kept my singing style simple, with intense and meaningful poetry, without using Persian and Arabic lyrics extensively. That’s what sets me apart”.

blessed to be able to be part of this event.

Celebrating 40 years of his singing career and launching his new album... something that certainly doesn't happen easily.

Concerts come and go, singers come and go, but there are legends like him who are able to sooth the soul and touch your hearts...”

Here are some of the reviews of the show: Madhuri Azam: “When you have the privilege of attending one of your all-time favorite... maestro ... one of the best Ghazal singers I have listened to most of my life...

The quality, the depth, the art of each musical instrument, and the velvety vocals with emotions are attached... I absolutely felt

Naseema Mustapha “What an absolutely incredible show by Ghazal Maestro PUNKAJ UDHAS at the Concert Hall in the Opera House!

He sang his classics and new releases too.

He launched his new album GHALIB and everyone in the audience was gifted a copy of the new album.

The musicians, particularly

Bullion website which will go live from 20th September 2022 onwards. Stay tuned for updates via social media.

Australian Indian CEO, Sheba Nandkeolyar from MultiConnexions Group, said: “I am absolutely blown away by the beauty of these intricately designed Diwali limited-edition silver and gold coins. What a gift to the Australian Indian community, who will be celebrating Diwali next month. ABC Bullion is certainly an organisation which connects with the hearts of their audience and understands their special needs.”

Prominent Indian community and business leaders at the VIP launch praised ABC Bullion’s initiative of crafting these beautiful gold and silver coins for Diwali and expressed their eagerness to purchase as soon as they were available.

the Indian Flute, Tabla and Mandolin musicians, were beyond fantastic! How beautifully modest Indian people are, their gracefulness and humbleness always astounds me.

It was a packed Concert Hall full sold out event with 1,000 vibrant energetic, music-loving people in the audience. Some people actually flew from New Zealand to attend this, and plenty from interstate too.

An amazing night, my first event inside the Opera House and what a way to celebrate - with a night in beloved India Tonight, I am grateful to my parents for taking me to every Mehfil when I was a child, for the many events we hosted at home

www.indiantimes.com.au

and attended with Uncle Hafeez Alikhan and Uncle Raz Zullah. I actually remembered the lyrics and tunes. Even though I was raised here, away from our culture and people, my parents made a huge effort to keep us connected to our identity culturally and religiously. Grateful.

Thank You Mum & Dad My heart is happy Ghungroo Toot Gaye Chitthi Aayee Hai Khuda Ka Shukra Hai I LOVE INDIA It was a packed, fully sold-out concert with over one thousand vibrant, energetic, music-loving people in the audience. Some people actually flew in from New Zealand, Fiji, Melbourne, and

Brisbane to attend this megaconcert.”

Brisbane Indian Times and Australian Indian Radio were proud to be exclusive media partners for Queensland; Umesh Chandra OAM and Usha Chandra were present at the concert and said they were proud to see their logos displayed in the prestigious Opera house for this mega concert.

The mega event also served as a backdrop for the launch of Pankaj Udhas Ji’s new album “Forever Ghalib”, Consul General Mr. Manish Gupta, and Lodhia brothers officially released the album, each and every attendee were given a copy as a memento for having attended this mega concert.

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Call: (07) 3192 5188

www.indiantimes.com.au

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