June 13

Indian Times

Brisbane

A Division of Qld Multicultural Times

As God is One, we respect all Religions

Print Post Approved PP:424022 1724

Volume 10, Number 9 Saturday, June 8, 2013

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Fire kills 119 at poultry plant in northeast China

• In this photo released by China’s Xinhua News Agency, smoke rises from a poultry farm at the Jilin Baoyuanfeng Poultry Company in Mishazi township of Dehui City, northeast China’s Jilin Province Monday, June 3, 2013. Wang Haofei/AP/Xinhua Full report page 2

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From the Publisher

WELCOME to our June issue, this months publishers note I am penning down from the beautiful Islands of Guadeloupe.

Yesterday we paid tribute the ancestors and fore fathers of current generation of people of Indian Origin.

It was a moving service with a pundit ji especially brought in from India. I was honoured to address such a gathering, they listened with great attention and as my address got translated into French I could just see the reaction on the faces, there was hope in their eyes. These are eyes of a tired community, a community which has suffered in silence since their arrival on these shores about 168 years ago.

In May 2011 Honorable Minister for Indian Affairs, Vyallar Ravi visited Guadeloupe, the first Indian Minister to visit Guadeloupe in his official capacity.

The memorial is in the memory of the brave men and women who had undertaken the terrible boat journey to these shores in hope for a better life.

Better life is what was promised to them, they were betrayed, and found themselves in extreme harsh conditions, they had no choice but to preserve with patience and do the best they could, they were suppressed to an unheard of degree, they were not allowed to carry forward their religion, some brave men stood up for their religious rights, they were beaten and tortured and finally left on a small island to die.

35 brave men gave their lives in this plight and today we are heading for that little island to pay homage and tribute to these men.

The mayor whom we met casually last night at Mishel Narainsamy’s residence, will also be accompanying us, he has kindly provided the piece of land were this monument will be inaugurated with a special Havan. I will do a full report in the next issue, all I can say for now is that it has been an incredible experience.

Now on issues closer to home, Indian High Commission has announced the next

regional PBD, which will be held in Sydney from 10th till 12th November 2013.

It will be a wonderful opportunity for many who have never had a chance to make it to one of the PBDs, right here on your door steps. GOPIO International biennial conference coupled with Women’s conference will be held on 9th November. I will be sending out full details of the program, and hope to see many of you there.

Next I would like to touch on Queensland week, as President of Queensland Multicultural Council, I proposed the idea of celebrating Queensland week with a Multicultural Dinner function, just before leaving for Guadeloupe we had formed a working committee which has done a tremendous job of putting together this event at such a notice.

I would like to personally thank Dr Nava and Anthony Lin, the two pillars of strength who worked extremely hard to make this happen, they were ably assisted with the hard working committee.

I would like to finish off by getting to the “Point” Meeting point and viewpoint, this month we have featured a very promising young man in the field of journalism.

In view point we have asked for the community view of the proposed grants funding model of a representative committee including FICQ. In our community there will arise from time to many discussion topics, we are very eager to bring these view points to the public.

We are now moving towards a rather challenging phase of reporting mode, were by rather than just being a watchdog so to say, we will address and bring to surface many pertinent issues in the community.

There is a lot happening in our community, and everyone has a right to community related information.

I better pen off now otherwise I will miss the boat which is taking us to the Island.

Until next month happy reading Umesh Chandra.

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Inside • Letters to the Editor.......................2 • Migration Matters...........................4 • Local News.................................5-23 • Business News................................24 • Who, What, Where, When...26 & 28 • Health & Well Being................34-37 • Astrology.........................................38 • Real Estate...............................39-41 • Business Directory/Classifieds...42-44 • What’s On.................................44-47 • Bollywood & Entertainment...48-49 • Sport..........................................50-51 2 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June 2013

Published Monthly OWNERS / PUBLISHERS: Umesh & Usha Chandra ADVERTISING: Trudi Tarres EDITOR: Trudi Tarres JOURNALIST/ CORRESPONDENTS: Ram Jattan (UK) Thakur Ranjit Singh (NZ) Thilliar Varnakulasingham (NZ) Shalendra Prasad (Fiji) Dhaval Vyas (India) Rama Gaind (Canberra) Sudesh Aggarwal (ATO News) ML. M. Nawaaz Ashrafi Imam Muhammad Aslam Sundar Gopal Das Yadavendra Das Pastor Joseph Dass Haji Abdul Rahman Deen Janeth Deen Jitendra Deo Atul Dighe (Spiritual Science Research Foundation) Mehraban Farahmand (Baha’i International)

Fire kills 119 at poultry plant in northeast China From front page

BEIJING, June 3 (IANS) At least 119 people were killed and dozens injured when a major fire raced through a slaughterhouse in China’s Jilin province, said authorities.

The fire broke out around 6 a.m. in the slaughterhouse owned by the Jilin Baoyuanfeng Poultry Company in Mishazi township of Dehui city, about 100 km northeast of the provincial capital Changchun, reported Xinhua.

Over 300 workers were in the plant when the fire began, said survivors who added that they heard a sudden bang and then saw dark smoke fill the premises.

About 100 workers managed to escape from the plant, the gate of which was locked when the fire broke out.

“I started working at 6 a.m. along with another 100 workers in my workshop.

There were two workshops in the plant,” said Wang Fengya, a 44-year-old female worker who suffered burn injuries while escaping.

“Soon after, someone shouted ‘run away!’ and we quickly ran to the exit, which is about 40 metres away from my seat.

Suddenly, the lights inside went out and the

plant got quite dark,” said Wang, adding that her legs felt like jelly as she fled.

Wang said she fell down and hurt herself while escaping.

“When I finally ran out and looked back at the plant, I saw high flames,” she added.

The complicated interior structure of the prefabricated plant in which the fire broke out and the narrow exits added difficulties to the rescue work, sources said.

The building’s steel frame and dense smoke could be seen at the scene after the fire was put out at noon.

Slaughterhouse worker Guo Yan stood outside the police cordon that encircled the burned-down establishment, waiting for a relative and co-worker trapped in the plant.

Guo, earning about 2,000 yuan ($320) a month, worked long hours to finance her daughter’s schooling.

An environmental watchdog has begun monitoring the environmental impact of the fire.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Established in September 2009, Jilin Baoyuanfeng Poultry Company has 1,200 employees and an annual output amounting to 67,000 tonnes of chicken products.

Community refugee sponsorship trial begins FOR the first time, community organisations such as ethnic groups, church groups, and NGOs can nominate people at risk in overseas locations for resettlement here in Australia.

Minister for Immigration and Citizenship Brendan O’Connor (pictured) announced the start of a community proposal pilot for up to 500 visa places under Australia’s humanitarian program.

The Gillard Government’s community proposal pilot is for individuals and families in humanitarian situations outside Australia who have links with established communities and networks in Australia.

“We are now acting on the calls of community groups to give organisations an opportunity to nominate people at risk overseas to be reunited with family or friends here in Australia,” Mr O’Connor said.

“Under the pilot, communities in Australia may be able financially contribute to bring those individuals or families to live permanently in Australia.

“The pilot will encourage stronger partnership between community organisations and the government in the resettlement of people.

“It will also build on the goodwill that we know exists in our communities and will facilitate the reuniting of families.”

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Community groups or organisations in Australia will work with approved proposing organisations to identify, propose and support humanitarian entrants under the pilot.

Approved proposing organisations are organisations that have entered into a contractual arrangement with the Department of Immigration and Citizenship to propose visa applicants under the pilot.

They are expected to have well-established community links, governance and infrastructure frameworks and be willing to support applicants from a diverse range of community groups.

In their August 2012 report, the Expert Panel on Asylum Seekers, chaired by retired Air Chief Marshall Angus Houston, encouraged the Government to utilise opportunities for a community based program to expand the Humanitarian Program in a productive and cost-effective way.

“We hope that this pilot will be a success, and after an evaluation, I would hope to establish a fully-fledged scheme in future years,” Mr O’Connor said.

Australia has resettled close to 800,000 refugees and other people in humanitarian need since the end of the Second World War. “I am hopeful that this innovative program will further consolidate this proud tradition,” Mr O’Connor.

Brisbane Indian Times is a monthly newspaper published in English. No material, including advertisements designed by Brisbane Indian Times, may be reproduced in part or who without the written consent of the manager. Opinions carried in Brisbane Indian Times are those of the writers and not necessarily endorsed by Brisbane Indian Times. Brisbane Indian Times will not be held liable for any advertising / editorial content - Advertisers supply/approve content therefore should any content be deemed inappropriate it is the advertisers responsibility. While every effort has been made to capture the true likeness to colour printing is an art and therefore we cannot guarantee an exact matching of product to image. Refund / Credit is not given as a result of the previous mentioned.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013 — 3

Recent news about Australian Migration Regulations 2013-14 Budget Overview: Australia’s Migration Program THE Federal Government announced some changes to Australia’s Migration program during the Federal Budget in May 2013 for the 2013/2014 financial years. The main points from the budge include the following: * The Total Migration Program numbers remain unchanged at 190,000; Skilled Program down by 700 places to 128,550; Family Program up by 700 to 60,885; * Total departmental revenue is expected to increase from $1,333.7 million to $1,462.3 million. The movement is primarily due to an increase in revenue from Government (appropriation revenue) of $126.7 million and an increase in DIAC’s own source rev-

enue of $1.9 million; * Refuge expenses increase from $118 million to $551 million in response to the Report of the Expert Panel on Asylum Seekers, which recommended an increase in the Humanitarian Program to 20,000 places annually; * There will be a comprehensive review into Australia’s refugee status determination system; * At least 12 percent of offshore refugee grants through the Woman at Risk Subclass; * Settlement services expenses increase from $479 million to $552 million; * Enhancement and extension of biometric testing; * Enhancement of the DIAC’s capability to detect and minimise identity and document fraud; * Subclass 457 visa application charges will increase revenue by more than $46 million; Area in which the government will review for further reform for the Migration Program include: * Labour market policy framework; * Long term migration planning framework; * Skills targeting (permanent and temporary); * Review of student programs; * Working holiday, visitor and specialist entry programs; * Visa simplification and deregulation agenda; and * Implementation of a fairer approach to migration for people with a disability First Significant Investor visa granted Australia’s first significant investor visa has been granted to a successful Chinese toy manufacturer and his young family.

The significant investor visa was introduced in November 2012 to attract potential migrants with a demonstrated history of success in business and investment. The successful applicant was nominated by the Victorian Government.

Under the scheme, significant investors must invest at least $5 million in the

Australian economy under the business innovation and investment program. They become eligible for a permanent visa after holding a provisional visa and maintaining the $5 million investment in Australia for four years.

There has been substantial interest from potential migrant investors with more than 170 applications lodged, totalling a potential of $850 million in investment.

Investment options include Commonwealth, state and territory government bonds, managed funds and direct investment into proprietary Australian companies. State and territory governments are partnering with the Commonwealth to ensure the available visas are offered to the most experienced business people and high profile investors.

Employing Legal Workers It is the responsibility of all businesses to employ legal workers. Legal workers are Australian citizens, permanent residents and non-citizens with Australian visas that allow them to work.

Some visas (e.g. visitor visas) do not allow non-citizens to work while they are in Australia. Applicants who no longer hold a valid visa are also not allowed to work in Australia. Since 2007 it has been a criminal offence under the Migration Act to employ or refer a person who is not allowed to work in Australia.

On 1 June 2013, new laws will introduce civil penalties and infringement notices for businesses that allow illegal work. The law also broadens who can be held liable and provides new evidence gathering powers.

The existing criminal penalties will remain.

When the new laws take effect, new penalties will apply where a person allows or refers: * an unlawful non-citizen to work; or * a non-citizen to work in breach of a visa condition that limits or restricts work.

However, businesses will be able to avoid penalties by taking reasonable steps to check their workers can be legally employed. Employers can access VEVO which is an online tool created by DIAC

which allows employer to check the visa status and work rights for their employees from overseas.

Northern Territory State Migration Plan The Northern Territory (NT) Government has updated their State Migration Plan Skilled Occupation List and now includes occupations, which are in demand across the NT. The State migration Plan includes criteria relating to qualifications, work experience and applicable English language requirements for a number of occupations.

International graduates who have not completed at least two years of study in the NT or are holders of Subclass 485 visas who completed their studies in another Australian state will be required to demonstrate that they have lived and worked in the NT in their skilled occupation or a closely related skilled occupation for a minimum of six months (12 months for diploma level Welfare Workers) prior to applying for sponsorship and to be considered for sponsorship for the Skilled Nominated (Subclass 489) visa unless they must demonstrate close ties to the NT. There are a limited number of visa places available for sponsorship and therefore some occupations are likely to be oversubscribed. These have been highlighted on the NT Skilled Migration Plan Skilled Occupation List.

Some occupations that are in high demand are: Aquaculture Farmer; Pharmacists; Registered Nurses and Midwives, Human Resources Exports. Childcare Managers; Welfare, Youth and Community Workers; Trade Occupations (motor mechanic, welders, fitters), VET and university Lecturers,.

Further detail is available on the NT government website: http://www.migration.nt.gov.au/visa/sol.html This article is intended to provide general information on migration issues and does not constitute migration advice, and no responsibility is accepted by Kiran Goel or AIEES for the accuracy of material appearing in the Brisbane Indian Times.

(Ms Kiran Goel MARN: 0639149)

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013 — 5

The GCHCA meets the Senator and the local Member of Parliament Mrs. Rathika Rahuraman Director of Youth and Community Activities, Fund Raising Activities, and Event Management Goldcoast Hindu Cultural Association

ON 12th of April 2013, the Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Association (GCHCA) met with the Southport local Member of Parliament Rob Molhoek to discuss their project progress and to seek support from the state government. Rob applauded the efforts of the GCHCA committee members and the Hindu community in Gold Coast on their dedication and success to date in their progress in realising the Gold Coast Hindu Education and Cultural Centre project. He was very enthusiastic about the prospect of having another multicultural society developing their cultural presence in Gold Coast.

He also pledged his support for the completion of the Hindu Education and Cultural Centre.

The GCHCA also met with Senator Clair Moore in May, who is focused on working for social justice and equality for all Queenslanders. Senator Moore in her support towards the building of the GCHCA cultural and educational centre said “there is a growing need, especially within the Gold Coast, for cultural education and spiritual engagement programs for the youth of these Hindu communities, and this Precinct will fulfil these needs”. Senator Moore’s full message can be viewed on the GCHCA website: www.goldcoasthindu.org/upload/Senator

ClaireMoore.pdf The GCHCA believes that it is important to pass on Hindu spirituality, concepts and traditions to younger people in an increasingly consumerist society and hopes that this new Gold Coast Hindu Education and Cultural Centre would focus on improving the cultural and spiritual lives of Hindus and the wider society. There are approximately 3,000 Hindus in Southeast Queensland, a mix of diverse nationalities.

Having made Australia their home, many are originally from India, Fiji, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Singapore, South Africa and Malaysia. This Education and Cultural Centre will provide a common place for these Hindus and wider community in Gold Coast and Southeast Queensland to congregate and unite to share their common believes and values.

$4.55 million to help build multicultural communities COMMUNITY organisations across Australia are being encouraged to apply for grants under the Gillard Government’s $4.55 million Building Multicultural Communities Program.

Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Senator Kate Lundy, today launched the program which will provide funding for community organisations to purchase new equipment, undertake refurbishments and build new infrastructure.

The estimated project cost for the next two years is approximately two million dollars which will provide a cultural and education centre and a religious education centre for the Hindus to congregate regularly to practice one of the oldest religion Hinduism, learn many languages and art forms and experience the Hindu culture in the beautiful city of Gold Coast. Support from the Gold Coast Hindu community has been outstanding that we are able to collect substantial amount of money towards this noble cause. However to secure a land from the council in a prominent part of Gold Coast, we need further funds to demonstrate our financial capability to successfully complete the Education and Cultural Centre building project. There are many ways for you to support our project—you may become a founder member by pledging

“Australia is a vibrant multicultural nation and the Gillard Government is committed to supporting our diverse multicultural communities,” Senator Lundy said.

This initiative follows the Gillard Government’s commitment to improve infrastructure that will build social inclusion and provide opportunities to bring together individuals and families in the community.

“This program will provide funding to eligible community organisations that support our multicultural communities and provide local services,” Senator Lundy said.

The Building Multicultural Communities Program includes two funding streams: Stream 1: Grants between $1,000 and $10,000 to support

$10,000, a life member for $5,000, be part of the 1,000 families’ campaign for $1,000 or simply donate any amount of money by visiting our website www.goldcoasthindu.org.

The Hindu Education and Cultural Centre in Gold Coast will become the focal point of many individuals of our community as it will serve the religious, spiritual, educational, cultural, social and charitable needs of the Hindu and wider society. We invite you to make the Hindu Education and Cultural Centre part of your life, and experience the Hindu heritage and Hindu culture right here in Gold Coast. Contributing to our GCHCA offers the Hindus of Gold Coast and Southeast Queensland a once in a lifetime opportunity to honour our ancestors and to leave a permanent legacy for the future generations.

“Like many of you, I grew up among the Hindu religious, educational and cultural surroundings shaping me with Hindu values and spiritual guidance for my lifetime. Who will do this for my children, grandchildren and generations to come? We have made Gold Coast our home now. It is not just a privilege but it is our duty to build this centre so that the future generations will be blessed with the same experience. As they grow older, they will be grateful to us just as I am to my forefathers for who I am today” says Dr Muthukumaraswamy, the President of GCHCA. So, please pick up the phone and call us on 5676 8530.

non-fixed infrastructure and equipment projects including: * computers * printers * photocopiers * furniture * kitchen and sporting equipment.

Stream 2: Grants up to $150,000 to support capital works and non-fixed infrastructure including: * multicultural hubs * purpose built buildings (e.g. community radio stations, performance studios) * meeting rooms that form part of a public building (e.g. community/multicultural Applications for the funding open at 9am AEST on May 31 and close at 5pm AEST on June 28.

Further information on the program is available on the department’s website at: www.immi.gov.au/bmcp.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013 — 7

The Mystique of Benarasi Silk: Kay Collections Saree Exhibition FOLLOWING a successful exhibition in Sydney recently, Delhi based designer, Kushma Ram, of Kay Collections now brings this unique exhibition of Benarasi silk sarees to Queensland. The exhibitions will be held as follows: 21 - 23 June; 10.00am - 7.00pm The Jindalee Hotel (opp DFO) Cnr Sinnamon & Goggs Roads Jindalee, QLD 4074 28 - 30 June 2013; 10am - 7.00pm Brisbane International Virginia cnr Zillmere & Sandgate Roads Boondall, QLD 4034 The exhibitions are an attempt to capture the subtleties and uniqueness of the Benarasi traditions expressed in the hand-woven sarees from the home of Indian silk – the mystical Benares region. Benarasi traditions of music, arts, its deities, the ghats of the mighty Ganges and the vibrant festivals have influenced artisans over the centuries to produce breathtaking patterns and colours using a variety of weaves on the different types of silk.

Weavers from across this region use different weaving techniques resulting in rich brocades, tanchoi, uppada, jamdani, khaddi, neelambari, meenakari and bootidar to create genuine works of art that are commonly referred to as the Benarasi saree. The sarees brought together in the exhibition have been created using techniques that have passed from one generation of weavers to another.

These rare craftswomen and men have been working on handlooms for centuries in this vibrant textile-producing region of India.

This exhibition also brings for the first

time masterpieces that have been carefully reproduced from the private collections of the Royal households of Benares from the 16th and 17 Centuries.

The exhibition features a diverse collection of the Benarasi brocade sarees that have remained an essential part of any woman’s wardrobe over centuries. The brocade silk sarees respond to the play of light like no other. They dazzle mysteriously during mornings and evenings and change their moods throughout the day.

This collection also includes sarees in dif-

8 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013

ferent silk varieties and combinations such as muga, tussar, organza and chanderi.

Kay Collections works with designers and weaving communities to bring these handwoven sarees to Australia. While this exhibition has its main focus on Benarasi silk sarees, the exhibition will also present sarees that express the heritage of craftswomen and men from other parts of India featuring sarees that have won national awards. These include Bandhni tie-and-dye from Bhuj in Gujarat, Ikat and bomkai weaves from Orissa, Baluchari designs from Varanasi, Jamdani and jaamawaar weaves from Bengal and Varanasi, Madhubani hand painted sarees from Bihar, Chanderi and Maheshwari sarees from Madhya Pradesh and Kantha embroidery from Bengal.

The exhibition is an event for the whole family. It is opportunity to learn about the different weaving techniques and the feel of various varieties of silk. Literature about weaving on the handloom and the different types of embroideries will also be available. This is a unique feature of Kay Collections and a small part of its commitment to bringing this aspect of Indian culture to Australia. The exhibitions also make a small contribution to preserving the fast disappearing handloom industry.

A small sample of the Kay Collections portfolio can be seen online at www.kaycollections.com Entry to the exhibitions is free and open to the public. There will be opportunity to purchase sarees at the exhibitions.

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MCF news….

Courtesy Janeth Deen THE Muslim Community has had many fund raising events in the last few months. We have not forgotten our brothers and sisters overseas in Gaza and Syria. Events have continually focused on these war zone areas and the countries in which refugees have fled to seek asylum. Thanks must be given to all who supported these fund raising events.

Muslim Charitable Foundation (MCF) has successfully collected the funds needed for the purchase of the Salvation Army premises for the Holland Park Mosque and funds for the Rochedale mosque which is nearly completed.

Funds have also been collected for the proposed purchase of the Toowoomba mosque and these collections will be on going until the target has been reached.

Ramadaan is fast approaching and it is time to consider the collection of Zakaat. It is an important time to consider the local community as charity begins at home. MCF has been working really hard in distributing Zakaat and assisting the needy in Queensland. Each month MCF assists up to 20 families, asylum seekers, refugees, new migrants and people from the general community.

This work has assisted in paying for urgent medical expenses, basic needs such as food, rent, white goods, baby clothes, school fees, electricity and other urgent bills. After all, food, shelter and clothing are the essentials of daily life. MCF has also supplied basic needs for many of the refugees and asylum seekers settling in the community in recent months.

It must also be noted that cases are strictly assessed, with many of the cases having several visits before they are finalized. MCF follows strict Zakaat guidelines for their cases to ensure that funds are distributed equally.

It is important to consider Muslim Charitable Foundation as it is a charity developed for the assistance of Queenslanders. MCF is run by local community members for Queenslanders who are in need. Donations are 100% utilized for the needy.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013 — 9

Chinmaya Mission: Swami Swaroopananda’s Brisbane visit TWENTY two years after the Vedantic Master, Swami Chinmayananda gave discourses on the Bhagavad Geeta and introduced the Chinmaya Mission to spiritual seekers in Brisbane, Australia, Swami Swaroopananda visited from 3 – 7 April 2013 to present a series of talks entitled “Win the Mind, Wind the World” - a highly practical framework of time tested virtues and mental approaches for ordinary individuals to attain happiness and success in life.

As is the Chinmaya Mission way, these talks, though based on an ancient ‘text’ - in this case, the Vibhisana Geeta portion of Sri Tulsidasji’s Ramcharitamanasa - were presented in a highly accessible way using contemporary examples and amusing references to less positive aspects of our human nature.

Swami Swaroopananda endeared himself to the Brisbane Community through the kind and loving way he delivered the firm and urgent message of this beautiful topic.

The way was paved for a successful yagna by the work undertaken by Brahmachari Gopal Chaitanya, Acharya for NSW, QLD, ACT, who has been visiting Brisbane several times a year since 2007 to support the fledgling Mission through Yagnas, Retreats, Camps, Satsangs etc. An exciting feature of the yagna was the simultaneous children’s ‘yagna’ on Hanumanji provided by Br Gopal Chaitanya for more than 40 children each night. The Brisbane CHYK (Chinmaya Yuva Kendra) members showcased the talent and energy of our Brisbane youth, providing MC support each night and helping out with publicity, audio visuals and bookstalls.

In addition, Swamiji also held two very

• Kids enjoying Krishna stories.

popular sessions with the Balvihar children, teaching them through his beautiful Krishna stories that “God loves You”, and with the CHYK, when they had the privilege to host a 40-strong “CHYK biksha” and explore with Swamiji the concept of “why do good people suffer?”

The Brisbane Mission had embraced Gurudev’s concept of the “Yagna spirit” from the start and the talks went off without a hitch strengthening dedication and delight in this wonderful work. Mission elders aged 80 years plus years played their part directing traffic and little children helped with displays and set-up. Thus, all; including the attendees played an important part in the hosting of a successful yagna in Brisbane.

For more information on the Brisbane

• Aarti sponsors being blessed by Swami Swaroopananda.

• Swami Swaroopanada during the discourse.

activities of Chinmaya Mission, please feel to visit the website (http://www.chinmaya.com.au).

The upcoming program is the Children’s Camp “Lord Muruga – Courage & Strength) for kids on 25th and 26th June with Br Gopal Chaitanya.

Brisbane and surrounding areas switch to digital only TV, but help is still available BRISBANE and surrounding areas permanently switched to digital-only TV signals on Tuesday 28 May 2013. Even though the switch to digital-only TV has taken place, there is still assistance and support available.

“It’s not too late to make the switch” said Elijah Buol, Digital Switchover ambassador. “You can still connect a digital settop box or digital TV recorder to your existing analog TV or upgrade to a TV with a built-in digital tuner”.

If you are eligible for the Household Assistance Scheme and haven’t yet opted in, there is still time to apply. The Scheme helps eligible people on certain full rate pensions to have equipment installed in their homes free-of-charge and provides inhome aftercare support for 12 months.

The Scheme will remain open for eligible residents of Brisbane and surrounding areas until 28 June 2013 so it’s important to apply as soon as possible. For more information, call the Department of Human Services on 1800 556 443.

If you’re experiencing issues with your digital TV reception, the mySwitch tool on the Digital Ready website www.digitalready.gov.au can provide you with information about your predicted digital TV coverage, a list of endorsed antenna installers and other information that may affect your area.

If you’re replacing your TV equipment, make sure you dispose of the old equipment responsibly. Visit www.environment.gov.au/ewaste to find disposal options in your area.

For more information about the switch to digital-only TV signals and for translated information in 30 languages, visit the Digital Ready website www.digitalready.gov.au or call the Digital Ready Information Line 1800 20 10 13 (available 7 days a week, 8am to midnight AEST).

The Translating and Interpreting Service is also available on 131 450. People who have a hearing or speech impairment can call 1800 555 677 and ask for 1800 20 10 13.

International students choose Australia for quality • Book stall in operation during public talks.

STUDENTS from overseas remain satisfied with their study experience even though the strong Australian dollar has made it more expensive, a new survey shows.

The 2012 International Student Survey found that 87 per cent of international students in Australia were satisfied or very satisfied with their study and living experience here, up from 86 per cent in 2010.

More than 90 per cent of over 50,000 respondents indicated that personal safety was one of their main reasons for choosing to study in Australia. However, satisfaction with living costs has fallen 10 percentage points since 2010.

Tertiary Education Minister Craig Emerson said the improvements in satisfaction, despite increasing costs, demonstrated the high quality of Australian universities and training providers.

“International students are choosing Australia because of the reputation of our institutions and teachers,” Dr Emerson said.

He said international education also offered Australian students the opportunity to work, and create long-term relationships, with people from other cultures.

“Everyone who comes from abroad to study in Australia becomes an ambassador for their country here and later for Australia in their home country,” he said.

“This sort of exchange is invaluable to Australia’s image abroad and to the experience of Australians who study alongside international students.”

International education was worth around $16 billion to the Australian economy in 2011, making it Australia’s fourth-largest export and largest services export.

10 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013

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Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013 — 11

Queensland Telugu New Year Ugadi celebrations

means ‘the beginning’. On this day, people chant mantras and the pandits make predictions for the coming year. According to an ancient tradition, people used to flock to the temples to listen to the yearly calender (panchangasravanam). The New Year begins with the month of “Chaitra” (MarchApril) and “Chaitra Suddha Padyami” indicates the beginning of the New Year. The Ugadi is the first festival of the Telugu calendar. This year actual Ugadi falls on 11th April 2013 (Sri Vijaya Nama Samvtsaram).

Attendees were received at the function traditionally with Kumkum and “Ugadi Pachadi” offerings by nicely dressed young ladies and elders.

The chief guest of this year’s Ugadi celebration was Mrs. Archana Singh as Honorary Consul of India to Queensland.

Celebrations officiated in the traditional way of lighting the lamp by her exllencey accompanied by senior members of the community and followed by “Panchanga Shravanam” by Sri krishna Ravipati. Mr Ravishankar Jonnalagadda welcomed the gathering.

Cultural programmes of Ugadi Celebration started with a Classical Dance followed by Children’s traditional Telugu songs,

Cinematic Dances and Songs with a representation of exciting Telugu patriotism. A gathering of 300 people from different walks of life attended the celebrations which relished the minds of all. The secular character of Ugadi is peculiar to the Indian sub-continent where unity had always coexisted with diversity, especially during festivals, when people come together to celebrate life’s unlimited joys. Maintaining the Ugadi tradition serving dinner comprising of carefully selected andhra dishes rejuvenated dormant “Telugu” taste buds was served the members and guest of association.

Ratna Budavarapu and Dr. Prabhakar

Bachu, committee members of QTA have given on stage technical support.

Mr. Srikanth Chalasani, Secretary of QTA conveyed Vote of thanks to members. Prof.

D S Prasada Rao, Prof. Prakash Rao Nallamilli, Dr. Prasad Nagulapalli and Dr. Ayyalaraju have presented the Prizes and Momentos to young participants. Mr. Sudarshan Kanthakadi, Treasurer of QTA thanked to Westpac, 7hills Indian groceries, Target travels, Ramsun developments, Low price pharmacy, Aus exchange, Curry heaven Restaurant, Top in town Restaurant, Swades India Groceries and Kohinoor fashions for support and sponsorship.

BCC6202-BIT2-BRIO

TELUGU community of Queensland under the auspices of Queensland Telugu Association celebrated Telugu New Year Ugadi on Saturday, 20th April 2013 in Cavendish Road State High School, Cavendish Rd, Holland Park, Brisbane with all its traditional gaiety and enthusiasm.

Ugadi is believed to be the day when Brahma - the Creator, in the Hindu Trinity formed the universe. It’s also the time when winter is on its way out, and spring’s around the corner, so the concept of new life and a new year is really very appropriate for Ugadi festival. Ugadi comes from two words, ‘Yuga’ meaning ‘era’, and ‘aadi’

Have your u sa say ay on n the futur future u e of our u city city. y..

T Talk alk to a Council o officer o r at one of the t ccommunity n consultation events on now acr across oss Brisbane until 30 July July.. e about the series of T To o find out mor more events or to make a formal submission visit www .brisbane.qld.gov www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/newcityplan gov v.au/newcityplan or call Council on (07) 3403 8888. interpreter, terr, call 131 450 and If you need an interpr eter ask to speak with Brisbane City Council.

12 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013 — 13

Fiji Seniors News…

• Girmit Day 2013 in Suva - Children displaying Girmit era costumes

By Rajendra Pratap Treasurer THE President of Senior Citizens Association Mr Surendra Prasad took part in CresWalk 2013 on Sunday, 26th May, organised by Crescents of Brisbane a non profitable organisation fostering a healthy-lifestyle through sports, entertainment, education and culture.

CresWalk was divided into nine categories according to different age groups. Surendra won the 70 plus walk. And was presented with the trophy. About 400 people from different ages took part in CresWalk.

Mr Prasad also joined other multi-faith leaders and offered a prayer of peace at the

2013 Buddha Birthday Festival 0n 5th May at South Bank Piazza, on the invitation from the organisers, Foguangshan Chung Tian Buddhist Temple.

Fiji Senior Citizens Association of Qld will be celebrating its 10th Anniversary on 31st August, 2013 at Macgregor State School, 5.30pm for 6.00pm, tickets $15 adult, Seniors and children over 12 years of age ticket $10, Vegetarian and non-veg food will be provided. The entertainment will be provided by different cultural groups.

For further information please contact; Surendra Prasad 0413 004 100, Raymond Saran 3290 0653 and Rajendra Pratap 0411 339 607.

Parliamentary launch of joint report

crescentsofbrisbane.org THE Democracy Awareness Campaign conducted by Crescents of Brisbane, AMARAH and the Islamic Council of Queensland through roadshows around the state was concluded on Thursday 23 May in Queensland's Parliament House in Brisbane with the tabling of the report on the project to a small group of invited politicians, government officials and community leaders.

It was also an opportunity to showcase the various Muslim organizations who contribute so significantly to the social, economic and educational fabric of the State.

Crescents of Brisbane's president, Dr Mustafa Ally, who presided over the proceedings, launched the report, after describing the objectives of the project and the model that was adopted at the roadshows as well as the lesson learned from the exercise.

Minister for Aboriginal, Torres Strait Island

and Multicultural Affairs of Queensland, Minister Glen Elmes, Mr Graham Perrett MP, Member for Moreton and Cr Angela Owen-Taylor representing the Lord Mayor, Cr.Graham Quirk followed with speeches that were supportive of the project Ms Naseera Naeem (18) spoke of the impact her participation in the Queensland Youth parliament had had on her and her presentation was very well received.

Ms Nora Amath, president of AMARAH, categorized and gave an overview of the various Muslim organizations, while Mr Mohammed Farouk spoke on the role of ICQ, Ms Hafizah Suleman on Crescents of Brisbane and Ms Salam ElMerebi on AMARAH. Mr Mohammed Yusuf, president of ICQ, thanked the members of the Muslim community who attended the workshops and the many organizations who lent their support to this initiative.

14 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013

Commemoration of Girmit arrival day High Commission of India, Suva 134th ANNIVERSARY of Girmit Arrival Day was commemorated by the High Commission of India at the Suva Civic Centre on 15 May. The function was attended by H.E. Mr Jone Usamate, Hon. Minister for Labour, Industrial Relations and Employment of Fiji, senior officials, diplomatic corps, media and the public.

The audience of over 500 persons included senior Indo-Fijians including some who had arrived here or were born during the

Girmit era.

The programme was organised in collaboration with the Sanathan Dharm Pratinidhi Sabha Fiji, Then India Sanmarga Ikya Sangam Fiji, Pravasi Youth Club, Suva Multi-Ethnic Centre (Government of Fiji) and the Fiji Museum.

A display of old Girmit era artifacts and documents was also organised in the foyer of the Centre by the Fiji Museum, TISI Sangam and the Pravasi Youth Club.

Liberal friends of the sub-continent gala dinner BIRDS of a feather flock together. So did the supporters of the Liberal Party, called the Liberal Friends of the Sub-continent, when they gathered on 23rd May 2013 in the Ball Room of Paravilla Function Lounge, Parramatta.

The guest of honour at this gala dinner was Hon Scott Morrison MP, Shadow Minister for Immigration & Citizenship as well as for Productivity & Population.

The hosts of this well- organized event were Senator Marise Payne, Liberal Senator for NSW and Alex Hawke MP, Federal member for Mitchell, Dr Jagvinder Singh Virk Community Leader.

Alex acted as the Master of Ceremonies and kept the proceeding going at a brisk pace.

Mr. Scott Morrison delivered a speech to an audience consisting of business people, community leaders and religious leaders from the Indian, Pakistani, Nepalese, Sri Lankan, Bangladeshi and Fiji communities.

Mr. Morrison acknowledged and lauded the contribution and role of the Indian subcontinent communities in the growth and development of multicultural Australia. He was however critical of the Labour Party’s unfair allegations about the 457 visa holders. Labor Party had claimed that the 457 work visa program was being rorted or misused. Mr. Morrison pointed out that 20% of the 457 visa holders are Indians and this was a direct attack on them. Mr Morrison elaborated further on the Coalition’s Plan – “Real Solutions for all Australians” and asked for the sub-continent community support in the next election in defeating an incompetent government. He said it is great Initiative by Dr Virk and his friends to put this Function together. This Group will play a Important Role in coming Elections and will play a Vital Role in next Government.

The Liberal candidates for the three key seats in Western Sydney were introduced.

They were Mr. Martin Zaiter (Parramatta), Craig Laundy (Reid) and Jaymes Diaz (Greenway) Other dignitaries that participated in the function were Louis Markus MP, Craig Kelly MP, David Elliot MP, Geoff Lee MP, Stuart Ayres MP and Tony Issa MP.

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The evening was not all about speeches.

An entertainment program, consisting of Bharatnatyam dance, Nepali cultural dances and Bollywood jhatkas, were on show for the benefit of the attendees.

Dr Jagvinder Singh Virk from Indian Australian Community and Mr Iftikiar Rana (Pakastani Community) had been instrumental in promoting and conducting this highly successful function. They both pledged to work with the sub-continent communities to help the Liberal Party in the coming federal elections. Alex Hawk MP & Senator Marise Payne specially thanked Dr Virk for his great efforts. Catering for the function was done by Mr. Athwal of Paravilla Function Lounge.

Later in the piece, Dr Virk took to the stage and held an auction for restaurant dinner with Mr. Scott Morrison and his other fellow politician. The auction was hotly contested and was finally won by Mr. Jatinder Vicki and Nillo Duggal of Seeg Events for $5300. Raffle tickets were drawn and prizes were given away to delighted winners.

In his vote of thanks speech, Dr. Virk thanked everyone for attending the gala dinner. He said that the Labor party had taken the sub-continent communities for granted. It had failed on border protection, 457 visas, carbon tax, keeping manufacturing alive and jobs growth. He requested everyone present to make the Coalition successful in the upcoming elections and help overthrow the Labor Party. Dr Virk Said We want to Hon Tony Abbott as Prime Minister in Sep because Mr Abbott is a Great Human Being, Honest Politician, Fittest Politician, Family Person.

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Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013 — 15

Kedron State High School represents Australia KEDRON State High School team, the finalists at the national Australian First Lego League Competition in Sydney on the 24th of February, 2013 were faced with an even higher challenge to represent Australia at the First Lego League Open European Championships in Germany (Paderborn) from 7th to 10th of May 2013.

The four day International competition had 53 teams from 33 different countries, it took place at the Heinz Nixdorf MuseumsForum (HNF) in Paderborn Germany, which is considered as the World’s Largest Computer Museum.

The competition comprised of three main aspects; the effectiveness of the team’s Robot solutions, Project solutions and thirdly the ability of team to display the core values upon which the competition was based. The Australian Team from Kedron State High ended up winning one

Three day Raam Katha at Bundamba of the prizes “Gracious Professionalism Award”; which recognized the team whose members maintained competitive professionalism.

Sahibjeet Singh Bains, a year 9 student, was a part of this 9 member team with three teachers made the Indian and Sikh community proud by representing Australia in the First Lego League competition.

A THREE day Ram Katha was held in Bundamba to mark the birthday of a senior citizen and former Fiji MP Mr Vinod Maraj.

The three day RAAM Katha from 17th to 19th May 2013 was recited by Mr Lekh Ram Sukh, the president and parcharak of Saraswati Ramayan Mandali.

It was well attended on all three days by

the members of a very active local community including friends and relatives from as far as Sydney.

The photo shows main yajmaan, Mr Vinod Maharaj with paracharack, Mr Lekh Ram Sukh and other members of the local community.

Compiled by Prem Chand – Secretary of Saraswati Ramayan Mandali

QSSI - Soni Camp 2013

Varad Raval President, Queensland Soni Samaj Inc. THE Queensland Soni Samaj Inc. (QSSI) is a non-profit voluntary organisation representing and serving the Soni Community in Queensland, Australia. The QSSI aims to promote social welfare, religious, educational and cultural advancements of its members and the greater community.

Most recently in early April 2013, a cohort of approximately fifty Sonis made the trek to the Lake Perseverance Recreation Centre, a quiet bushland area near Crows Nest overlooking the tranquil waters of Lake Perseverance. The camping facilities with rustic ensuite cabin-style accommodation would prove most perceptions of the word ‘camp’ wrong and in that sense, one could argue that the name of this particular event, ‘Soni Camp 2013’, could easily have been ‘Soni Retreat 2013’!

At the Camp site, one was surrounded by bushland, the constant buzzing of insects and woke up to feel the sharp chill of the mornings. And yet, be able to make oneself a steaming hot cuppa at the 24 hour tea station and bask on front of the fire in the main hall. Outside each cabin was a per-

sonal wooden deck which would provide an ideal spot to engross in a good read while sipping away at the hot tea! The chirping away of the birds and yet the quietness of the surrounds…just a perfect cleansing experience for one’s soul, as an escape away from the urban usually is. And to top it up was the Yoga workshop run each morning by the very experienced Karuna Raniga.

Soul cleansing aside, the Soni Camp offered much more. Registered participants list comprised of the youngest member being 1 to the oldest being 82 years of age and participants representing each decade between the youngest and the oldest! The QSSI is a close knit community with several members also being related to each other – this Camp was a platform for those near and dear ones to come together once again.

Some members who attended the Camp are relatively new into the wider QSSI family and they took up the opportunity to develop friendships with those unfamiliar individuals.

An underlying objective at such events is usually aimed at bringing the wider community together, developing team spirit and fostering relationships based on mutual trust and respect. The Camp participants experienced exactly that through participation in activities such as canoeing where one is depending on others on the raft not to end up being toppled over into a great lake (with rumoured crocodiles)! Several enthusiastic individuals took the challenge to

16 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013

walk through the thick bushland while others chose to attend the Health and Wellbeing workshop conducted by a fellow camper, Dr Nayan Soni. Neera Odhavji led a discussion pertaining to experiences and challenges specific to the women living in a multicultural society like ours.

Away from the humdrum of everyday life and with mundane cares out of mind, we found ourselves able to connect with each other in meaningful ways. The highly talented Ashwin Ratilal led the Karaoke evening while the young and old enjoyed the Antakshari evening led by Raweena Raval and Prakash Raniga. Jitesh Raniga and Anand Raniga led the sporting activities including tennis, volleyball and tabletennis. The group of teenage boys indulged into board games and the young kids enjoyed themselves under the able leadership of Yashvi Jogia. The Campers participated in the traditional Australian Bush Dancing – was so impressive to see the young and old couples dancing away merrily! Smita and Vimal Raniga mesmerised everyone with their sensational Salsa dance and by popular demand, they also conducted a Latin dancing workshop. Nearly every Camper took part in the entertaining games such as Musical Chairs, Paper Dancing, Dumb Charades, Celebrity heads and others. Such a satisfying experience to witness the young and old laughing and playing together!

Such events do not happen without plenty of planning and meticulous organisation.

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The efforts put in by the Camp Leader Dr Pravin Soni resulted in the event running so smoothly and to everyone’s satisfaction.

Under his guidance, the QSSI Committee had worked really hard for the past 6 months or so to deliver this high quality event to the participants. The guidance and advice received from the veteran Raman Vasram played a pivotal role in the success of this event.

When Campers asked for the next Camp event during the debrief session, one could make out the level of enjoyment and the sense of fulfilments all present had over that weekend. Some individuals who would normally be considered shy or reserved, had, by the end of the Camp, opened up and participated in various activities. Many may have arrived back home sleep deprived, but, surely so very enriched with the many beautiful moments and people they spent time with. It struck to many that they are not an isolated ball of wool in the world, but rather, belonging to, and interconnected with a rich, yet complex and ever-evolving weave of the Queensland Soni Samaj.

The QSSI is extremely proud to be an active community organisation promoting activities that foster a greater acceptance of cultural values through community participation activities, cultural celebrations, developing an inclusive, harmonious and cohesive community. Together, we will succeed…

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013 — 17

Meditative relaxed music programme for special children by Smt. Bombay Jayashri Courtesy VHP HINDU Social Services Foundation was very happy to organise the programme on 27th April, 2013 at Ermington Community Centre, Ermington.

More than 30 special children attended the evening programme with their parents, carers and grandparents.

Mr R. Subramanian, President, VHP Australia welcomed the special children and their parents.

Mrs Akila Ramarathinam, General Secretary VHP Australia welcomed the special families and Smt. Bombay Jayashri and her team.

Akila, mentioned in her welcome speech that the special children and their family members were very fortunate to listen to the world renowned Smt. Bombay Jayashri, who was kind enough to perform for the special people.

The programme commenced with prayer slokas rendered

by Master Arun Kumar. Smt. Jayashri and her accompany-

ing artists captivated the audience for the next hour with an enthralling music performance. Every one of the special people thoroughly enjoyed the programme.

Dr Shobha Kumar, VHP Hindu Social Service Foundation Coordinator delivered Vote of Thanks to all the artists, all the children, their families and carers. Dr Shobha also added her sincere thanks to Sri H N Bhaskar (Violin), Sri V V RamanaMurthy (Mridangam), Sri Giridhar Udupa (Ghatam), Sow Chitra Poornima and Sow Keerthana Vaidyanath, vocal support artists.

Dr. Shobha extended her wholehearted thanks to Sound System Specialist, Sri Rajasekar, Smt. Gayathri Krishna (Bhoomija Event coordinator), SEWA Australia volunteers, Yuva Sangeetha Margam youth volunteers, Smt. Saroj Arora and Sri Prem Arora, VHP Vedic Centre volunteers.

She acknowledged Mrs Usha Arvind and Mrs Nalini Shankar for their support.

VHP Australia also thank Hornsby Council and Holroyd

Council for their support, North West Disability Service, Central Link for sincerely promoting the event. VHP Australia would also like to thank Dr Sundar and Mrs Rani Sundar, members of Hindu Social Service Foundation for their kind donation to this divine programme.

VHP Australia would also like to thank Taj Vegetarian Restaurant for providing snacks. Last but not the least, VHP Australia would like to express sincere words of appreciation to all the volunteers, special children and their families, carers, parents, grandparents for attending the event in a short notice.

The next programme of Hindu Social Services Foundation of VHP Australia will be “Special Camp for Special people “to celebrate the International Day for People with Disability in Dec 2013.

PLEASE VISIT OUR WEB SITE – WWW.VHP.ORG.AU

Successful launch for YSPN

Ideas Fiesta breaks Council social media record

THE Young Sikh Professionals Network (YSPN), an initiative of Sikh Youth Australia (SYA), successfully launched at its inaugural marquee event, Climbing the Mountain to Success: Leveraging Your Networks.

“The event was inspirational. It exceeded my expectations. Surely, a big success!” said Manjot Singh, Financial Analyst.

The event featured a panel discussion between two very successful speakers, Dr Perminder Sachdev AM, head of Neuropsychiatry UNSW and Giam Swiegers, CEO Deloitte Australia. Both speakers, at the peaks of their respective industries, shared personal insights to the ambitious young crowd on how they too could achieve this success. Giam imparted valuable wisdom that validated the need for YSPN’s existence, “the power of your network is far more significant than the value you can bring to a company.”

The event was well received amongst the audience of ambitious young Sikhs, and students from the University of Sydney Business School, from a variety of backgrounds. Attendees were motivated by the calibre of the speakers, the universal insights, and the professionalism of the event. Jagpreet Singh, an assistant accountant attending the event, praised the idea, “It was a valuable experience, I loved listening to the speakers and I was able to meet some great people on the night.”

YSPN aims to be the preeminent vehicle for successful Sikhs to connect and learn from one another and to

LORD Mayor Graham Quirk is thanking Brisbane residents who contributed feedback to Council’s recent ‘Ideas Fiesta’, with the innovative campaign scoring more than 1.2 million social media hits.

The Lord Mayor said the campaign also had more than 61,000 website views and more than 16,400 people attended an Ideas Fiesta event.

The Ideas Fiesta ran from Thursday 11 April through to Friday 3 May, with the community able to provide feedback until Friday May 17.

“The Ideas Fiesta was an innovative events-led approach to consultation that showcased how inner-city spaces could be activated, which aimed to generate ideas for the new City Centre Master Plan,” Cr Quirk said.

“Community involvement exceeded all expectations, with more than 680,000 Facebook views – our next most successful social media campaign, Hack, only received about 310,00 views.

“The Ideas Fiesta got people thinking, talking and sharing ideas, as residents took to the streets and internet in droves to share their passion, pride and ideas for Brisbane’s city centre.”

18 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013

profile that success to the wider Australian community. YSPN has a vision to build a sustainable organisation and to promote and profile the successes of the Sikh community. Additionally, YSPN will be delivering a series of networking events to engage Sikh professionals throughout the year. The next event, pure informal networking, will be held very soon, at the Sydney offices of DDB. Further information about YSPN can be found on the website at www.yspn.org.au www.indiantimes.com.au

Cr Quirk said Ideas Fiesta also had 2,291 ‘likes’ and 749 comments on Facebook, which was the highest number of any Council campaign to date.

“The energy and enthusiasm of Brisbane residents throughout Ideas Fiesta was phenomenal with ideas received ranging from street art and pop up events to new bridges and cycle-friendly streets,” he said.

The campaign provided extensive opportunities for people to share their thoughts and ideas at a series of street, laneway and park events, workshops, panel discussions and walking tours.

People were also invited to submit their ideas through a social media hub and in writing to Council.

Council officers will now begin working their way through the huge volume of ideas and feedback generated.

Analysis will take several weeks to complete, with the draft City Centre Master Plan to be drawn up in coming months.

Once completed, the plan will then be released to the public for comment.

For further information visit www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/ citycentremasterplan or phone Council on (07) 3403 8888.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

“Honor System” Dear Brisbane Indian Times readers, WELCOME to the seventh article of our exiting journey through the Inspired Indians column.

What is the purpose of this article?

The main purpose of this article is to inspire our BIT readers and families to excel in their life, work and be proud citizens of Australia.

Additionally, it is to explore the greater potential for which you have been created.

To find insights, wisdom and understandings that will help you make better choices daily.

In our past three articles we have discussed about human potential, true joy, communications and inspirations. You can read them in the online version of BIT pages 17-19.

In the past article we explored the meaning of the words ‘Real Deal’.

Today let us explore about a how to learn a ‘honor system’, in this amazing land abundance and opportunities. I am blessed and filled with gratitude for being part this great land of Australia. In a less known history of Australia the author Col Stringer points out that, in the year 1606 Capt. Pedro Fernan-

dezde Quiros gave this continent the name “Australia del Espiritu Santo” or literally “Southland of the Holy Spirit”.

Today this nation is a blessing to many new migrants like you and me. We must learn to live to honor the rich heritage and abide by every rule and laws of Australia by upholding them daily. Even the small things such as driving, and parking correctly by respecting the simple rules we show our honor the nation and to the system. I write this because, few of my friends suggest that many Indian drivers does not understand parking rules around the intersections and at corners. Make sure to park right even if you have to walk little bit longer. We can lead by a good example and not become a poor sample. The author of the epistle Luke gives us a powerful word; “He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much”, (Luke 16:10).

Let us learn honor this nation by abiding in the law of the land and enjoy the peace and prosperity with our friends and family.

Are you hungry for more inspiration?

Please write to us by email: navig8grace@gmail.com

Brisbane residents embrace green waste bins LORD Mayor Graham Quirk has congratulated Brisbane residents for helping to prevent more than 28,000 tonnes of green waste going to landfill over the past three years, by ordering a green waste recycling bin.

Cr Quirk said since the bins were introduced by Council in 2010, 50,000 of them had been ordered by residents.

“I want Brisbane to be Australia’s cleanest, greenest city and having an initiative like this is helping us to maximise the recovery, reduction and recycling of resources from across the city’s waste streams,” he said.

“The popularity of this service really demonstrates the fact that Brisbane residents want to help reduce their waste generation and do their bit for the environment.

“Reaching 50,000 bins in just three years is a significant milestone and it means that we are averaging about 46 bin orders each day since their introduction.”

Cr Quirk said The Gap, Forest Lake and Bracken Ridge had the highest uptake for the Green Waste Recycling Service, with more than 1,000 households from each of those suburbs ordering a green waste bin.

“The Gap had the highest take up with about 1,285 bins ordered, with Forest Lake ordering more than 1,200 and then Bracken Ridge ordering more than 1,030,” he said.

The bins can be used for grass clippings, garden prunings, weeds and flowers, small plants, shrub trimmings, leaves and untreated timber.

Each fortnight when green waste is collected the organic material is taken to a green recycling facility where it is chipped, stabilised and aged ready for re-use as compost or mulch.

The Green Waste Recycling Service forms part of Council’s Towards Zero Waste Strategy which aims to maximise recovery of resources from Brisbane’s waste streams to work towards a cleaner and greener Brisbane.

Green waste bins are available for a oneoff charge of $30 and a quarterly $17.28 service fee. These fees are billed through rates notices.

“I would encourage all residents who have a need to dispose of any significant amount of green waste to sign up for the service,” he said.

To sign up for the Green Waste Recycling Service, visit Council’s website at www.brisbane.qld.gov.au or phone Council on 3403 8888. Remember to have your current Rate Account information handy.

Tenants will need approval from their landlord if they wish to order the service.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013 — 19

Viewpoint....

Action on road safety

This month’s topic is the proposed Community grant funding by MAQ whereby MAQ is proposing a community representative committee including FICQ and other community representatives to administer the funds.

I personally think this proposed grant will not work.

At the moment different communities submit their own needs and get funds accordingly and with so many communities now in Qld it will be very hard for an organisation to distribute these funds and it may cause friction amongst communities.

Sunil Datt - President Shree Sanatan Dharan Hindu Assn. of Qld

I support MAQ’s proposal for integrated Indian events with consolidated funding.

Surendra Prasad OAM President - Fiji Senior Citizens Association of Qld Inc

There is need for consolidation of key festivals and events.

The government grant can be effectively allocated and utilized.

We support the integrated funding, governed and supported by the government.

Dr. K. K. Navaratnam (Nava) Secretary/Tamil Association Qld Inc.

"Consolidated funding will promote unity among the diverse Indian communities to display our culture and festivities together to greater Queenslanders. This will put our festivities among the best celebrated in the State and we will be seen as a role model for Indians in other states to follow."

Dr Naidu Bodapati President - FICQ

Formation of the Community Panel seems to a be a good idea but we have to take so many things into consideration, we have to invite all the concerned organisations for thorough discussion, it is going to be a very sensitive matter. GOPIO as an international organisation will work shoulder to shoulder with other community groups.

Shyam Das President - GOPIO Qld

COMMUNITY engagement and education will be the cornerstone of the Newman Government’s twoyear $350 million plan to tackle a rising road toll.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said the 60-point Queensland Road Safety Action Plan would target Queensland’s road toll, which had 17 more fatalities than the same time last year.

“This budget delivers the results of our 12-month review of road safety in Queensland and a plan to tackle the rising number of fatalities,” Mr Emerson said.

“It includes $2 million a year for a community road safety fund to assist with developing solutions to local road safety issues, $1.6 million over three years to expand an alcohol and risk-related trauma injury awareness program and $480,000 over three years to educate Queensland high school students of the risks involved with vehicles.

“This budget spends a record $82 million on the Safer Roads Sooner program to fast-track the rollout of proven safety treatments such as wider centre lines, audio tactile line markings, safety barriers and improving intersections and line markings.

A further $2 million per year will also be spent on cycle safety treatments including line markings at higher-risk locations to reduce the potential for vehicle and bicycle conflict.

“We will also begin calling for nominations to review speed limits on up to 100 roads across Queensland.”

The Road Safety Action Plan will be available at www.tmr.qld.gov.au

Best and brightest head to APCS for the Young Professionals’ Program THE 2013 APCS Young Professionals’ Program (YPP) attracts the best and brightest young minds from the Asia Pacific region and beyond. For the first time, the YPP will feature the Young Social Entrepreneur (YSE) Campaign, which offers $10,000 USD in prize money. Run by young professionals for young professionals, YPP offers a hands-on and unique program designed to give opportunities for delegates to network, collaborate and challenge ideas surrounding the Summit’s

theme: ‘Reshaping the Urbanomics of Cities – City Challenges, City Solutions.’

What can you expect from the Young Professionals’ Program?

Young Professionals’ Forum • The Young Professionals’ Forum is an exclusive event specifically tailored to the development of young professionals • The Forum will set the scene for young professionals by introducing the Summit theme and an opportunity to formulate their own ideas before engaging with the wider

Summit.

“It was simply an unforgettable experience giving an opportunity to speak at the APCS on behalf of my fellow YPs… I walked out from the Summit believing that young leaders of today can influence the world of tomorrow.

Rachell Buckley Business & Relationship Development Manager, Royal Brisbane & Women’s Hospital Foundation Young Social Entrepreneur (YSE)

Campaign • Open to young people aged 18 – 35, the International YSE Campaign asks for submissions regarding an original and innovative urban solution • Six short listed entries will be flown to Kaohsiung and participate in the final round to determine the winner • Closing date for submissions is Monday 10 June 2013 For detailed information about YSE visit www.2013apcs.org/yseCampaign.php

“Caveat emptor: All advertisements included in our publication are in accordance to the disclaimer statement on page 2.”

20 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013 — 21

APSQ - Mothers day celebration Courtesy APSQ MOTHERS day celebration was held on May 11 at Finnish Hall Mt Gravatt East. The celebration was totally enjoyed by members present. The evening began with Havan Yaj. Youth members sang a few Bhajans and a couple of audio clips were played to compliment deeper understanding about Mothers, and women.

A warm welcome was given by the President Mr Jitendra Deo to all the members, and wishes given to mothers present on this very special occasion. The gifts were then presented to mothers who were present, gifts were provided by the Sabha.

Mr Sukarm Singh presented a lecture about mother, and it was very informative. The programme was made more lively, after Ashwin Chand led the members into “Antakashri”. Members showed their talent, and actively took part.

The Vedic culture trains every man to look upon all women as forms of the one Divine Mother. The mother is more worthy of reverence than father or teacher according to our scriptures. According to Manu Smriti on the point of view of reverence, a teacher is ten fold superior to a mere lecturer, a father is a hundred fold superior to a teacher, and a mother is a thousand fold superior to a father. Women are the back-

bone or bedrock that sustain dharma and national strength, peace and prosperity. Manu declares: “The woman who always does good, who is efficient in work, sweet in speech, devoted to her duty and service of mankind, is really no human being but a goddess.”

Our scriptures say “Matra devo bhava”- treat your mother as a goddess.

Mothers are the greatest conservers of our culture.

They adhere to the household ritual, lullabies and popular poetries. A definite philosophy of life is bound up with these. By the very quality of their being, mothers are the missionaries of civilization. With their immense capacity for self-sacrifice they are the unquestioned leaders of mankind.

The dinner was served , and after dinner Musical Chair was played. Mothers had a good time with this as well.

Meeting Point....

IN OUR first Meeting Point lets meet Mr Shailendra Singh of University of the South Pacific (USP) academic and journalist. A senior lecturer and divisional head of USP’s regional journalism programme in Suva, Shailendra is currently pursuing doctoral studies at the University of Queensland (UQ) in Brisbane.

A senior lecturer and divisional head of USP’s regional journalism programme in Suva, Shailendra is currently pursuing doctoral studies at the University of Queensland (UQ) in Brisbane.

Originally from Suva, Shailendra had set his mind on becoming a journalist at an early age because of his love for reading, writing and current affairs.

His professional journey has taken him from his first media job as a proof-reader at the old Fiji Sun in Lami, to becoming the first local head of USP’s journalism program.

Shailendra is the recipient of three honours: the UQ International Research Scholarship, UQ Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship for top students and the USP Staff Development Scholarship.

With a Masters in Business Administration and a Graduate Certificate in Tertiary Teaching, Shailendra was editor of magazines like The Review, Pacific Business and content editor of Fijilive.com, associate editor of the Daily Post newspaper and a former Inter Press Service correspondent.

As a journalist, Shailendra has witnessed and reported on some historic moments in Fiji media, politics and society.

He has also experienced major and rapid technological changes in the media sector, such as moving from the typewriter to the computer age, digital photography and the internet revolution.

Sharing his experiences, Shailendra recalled that at the Fiji Sun, he worked under editor Peter Lomas, originally from New Zealand. “He was strict about standards. If we failed to pick up even a small error, we would get to hear about it in no small measure.”

Shailendra got his first break in 1988, when he was hired as a cadet reporter at The Fiji Times by then editor, the respected Vijendra Kumar, much admired for his astute handling of the paper during the 1987 coups, when the country was on a knife-edge, and the media was strictly censored.

When Shailendra joined the paper in 1988, many top journalists had emigrated because of the Sitiveni Rabuka coups, which had shocked Fiji and the world.

Editor Kumar, after steering the paper through its most difficult period, emigrated to Australia, where he worked for the Courier Mail for some years before retiring in Brisbane.

According to Shailendra, the paper was left in good hands in editor Jale Moala, another highly-regarded local journalist.

“I was fortunate to have worked under Vijendra Kumar, Jale Moala, and Peter Lomas, ” said Shailendra. “These were knowledgeable people with a passion for the job.

They were good role models for a local journalist like me.”

Shailendra describes his time at The Fiji Times as a fun, stimulating and learning experience.

He was the Chief of Sports when he resigned after six years with the paper. “I was interested in sports, so my time at The Fiji Times was more like a party than work. But after several years I got restless. The work had become easy and routine, and I craved a new challenge.”

Shailendra accepted an offer to join Associated Media Ltd, publishers of the award-winning news and business magazine, The Review, started by his former The Fiji Times col22 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013

Indonesia erects Statue of Hindu goddess Saraswati near White House A STATUE of Hindu goddess Saraswati has reportedly been erected about a mile away from White House in Washington DC (USA).

This 10-foot high statue raised by Embassy of Indonesia on public space on Massachusetts Avenue NW was unanimously approved

by Advisory Neighbourhood Commission (ANC) 2B Dupont Circle. It is said to be even taller than Mahatma Gandhi’s statue, which is also on Massachusetts Avenue, about less than one fifth of a mile.

Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada (USA), commended Indonesia President Dr. H. Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Indonesian Ambassador to USA Dr. Dino Patti Djalal for installation of Saraswati statue; thus displaying religious pluralism, honouring diversity and respecting minorities. Zed also thanked Dupont Circle ANC for the unanimous Saraswati statue approval.

Zed, who is President of Universal Society of Hinduism, noted that existence of different faiths showed God’s generosity

league, Yashwant Gounder, founder of the Fijilive news website.

For Shailendra, The Review offered the opportunity to work with a highly experienced team, and the time and space to write in-depth, analytical articles.

Fellow journalists at The Review included Richard Naidu, Joe Nata, Arvind Kumar and Aniltra Chaudhri, to name a few.

Nata was George Speight’s spokesman in the May 2000 coup. He is currently serving a jail sentence.

Notwithstanding his involvement in the coups (for which he has apologised) Nata was a fine journalist educated in Australia, and a key member of The Review team, according to Shailendra.

The Review was famous for in-depth business reporting, political and economic analysis, and some major exposes, such as the National Bank of Fiji scandal, for which Gaunder won a regional investigative journalism award.

The magazine reported Fiji’s first political sex scandal between then Prime Minister Rabuka and a female journalist.

“Because of the conflict of interest issue in that tryst, it was a major public concern that had to be reported,” Shailendra states.

This ground-breaking piece of journalism by The Review journalists broke the taboo surrounding media coverage of the private lives of political figures.

Says Shailendra: “Today the private lives of Fiji politicians are no longer out of bounds if they impinge on, or compromise, their public responsibilities, or if it’s contrary to the sanitised image politicians like to project in public.”

Shailendra described Gounder as a courageous and talented journalist who took some big risks in publishing the National Bank of Fiji and Rabuka sex scandals.

Gounder was also an internet pioneer in Fiji. Fijilive was www.indiantimes.com.au

and bountifulness. As we were all looking for the truth, dialogue would bring us mutual enrichment and help us overcome prejudices, Zed added.

Capitals of other countries around the world should also install statues of Hindu gods and goddesses in public places, thus proving their credentials of multiculturalism and pluralism, Rajan Zed stressed.

A statue carver and six stone masons were flown in from Bali (Indonesia) for this Saraswati statue, which was created in three weeks, reports suggest.

Indonesia has the largest Muslim population than any other country in the world; where Muslims form about 88% of the population and Hindus about 3%.

In Hinduism, Saraswati is revered as goddess of knowledge/learning, music, art, language/speech, and poetry.

Hinduism is the oldest and third largest religion of the world with about one billion adherents and moksh (liberation) is its ultimate goal. There are about three million Hindus in USA.

among the first Fiji news websites to go online. Shailendra says that with the onset of the internet, Associated Media Ltd, in order to make optimum use of scarce capital, was forced into a choice between its print publications and a future in online media.

The company chose the latter. Today Fijilive website its subsidiary web services are hugely successful.

The website gained international recognition for breaking news of the 2000 coup to the world at a time when the internet was still new to the scene.

Reflecting on the 2000 coup, Shailendra said the Review Magazine had been analysing the political storm gathering around Prime Minister Chaudhry’s Labour-Coalition government. In an article, it warned about plans being hatched to stage a coup.

The prediction came true on May 14, 2000, when George Speight and his goons stormed parliament and took the Chaudhry Government hostage.

Shailendra recalls being at the Parliamentary gates with colleagues soon after the takeover. The place was teeming with Speight supporters high on testosterone.

Shailendra said that he and his colleague, rather naively, demanded that they be let into Parliament, as they were journalists. A Fijian policeman said, matter-of-factly: “They (the coupists) do not want Indians in there”.

Shailendra said the message behind the policeman’s words did not sink in immediately, but later he realised asking to be let into the parliamentary complex was like a death wish.

“Had the policeman acceded to our request, we could have been in serious trouble. The coup had just been executed.

Feelings were running high among coup supporters. We were in a bit of a shock, and in our journalistic zeal, we did not notice the dangers. The policeman saved us from a potentially life-threatening situation.”

Shailendra left The Review in 2001 to enrol in the USP’s MBA programme under an AusAid media scholarship.

In 2002, he joined the USP’s journalism programme as a part-time tutor. Later he was given a full-time teaching position, and worked his way up to senior lecturer and head of journalism positions. He was also acting head of the USP’s School of Language, Arts and Media for nearly two years before coming to Brisbane.

Shailendra’s mentor at USP was Professor David Robie, whom he describes as the pre-eminent authority on Pacific journalism.

As part of his PhD research, Shailendra is investigating allegations that traditional journalism frameworks fuel conflicts by focusing on the manifestations of conflict, such as violence, while avoiding complex explanations.

He is using Fiji as the setting, with media coverage of the country’s 2006 elections as a case study.

“I am looking at a framework for responsible conflict reporting. This is journalism sensitised to its role in, and impact on, conflict. This is important for Fiji, where instability has caused a huge and lasting setback on development.”

Shailendra says media in Fiji needs to rethink its role in light of Fiji’s damaging coup culture.

He said current media restrictions in Fiji did not bode well for society, and should be lifted. If media has faults, the way to rectify them is through dialogue and education rather than restrictive legislation.

Shailendra says he is enjoying his time in Brisbane, which will likely become home for him and his family.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013 — 23

Business News Digital Brisbane supporting Brisbane’s budding entrepreneurs An exciting new program to encourage budding entrepreneurs and identify the next big Brisbane technology start-up was launched by Lord Mayor Graham Quirk on 27 May. In recognition that Brisbane’s innovative technology start-up community is gaining global attention, the newly launched Budding Entrepreneurs Program is intended to inspire the city’s pioneering start-ups and technology businesses.

Part of the Digital Brisbane Strategy, the Budding Entrepreneurs Program is designed to provide practical support to young entrepreneurs, encouraging more start-up success stories like Brisbane-born We Are Hunted, Fruit Ninja, and Hungry Hero.

“When I launched the Brisbane Digital Strategy I promised to support budding entrepreneurs and this grants program is one in a suite of initiatives I am rolling out to do this,” Lord Mayor Graham Quirk said.

“There has already been a lot of activity in this area. Just last month we kicked of the Visiting Entrepreneurs Program and introduced Brisbane’s start-up community to an international guru.”

The Budding Entrepreneurs Program will allocate $50,000 in funding across two funding rounds a year, giving budding entrepreneurs the opportunity to apply for grants for up to $5,000 per person, to support their start-up idea.

The grants can be used for attending a start-up event or conference, obtaining professional advice, membership of a start-up support program, entry into education programs or funding for trade missions.

“Encouraging and fostering high-growth start-up companies is crucial to Brisbane’s

economic growth,” Cr Quirk said.

“These companies, which have relatively low entry costs, have the potential to reach global markets and bring hundreds of millions of dollars into the Brisbane economy.”

Current Brisbane entrepreneurs praised the promising talent pool that exists in the city and encouraged anyone with a big idea to come forward.

Entrepreneur Chris Kettle who created the HungryHero iPhone app which gives users access to nearby offers from restaurants, cafes, bars, that they can use instantly said Brisbane’s start-up scene was on the cusp of taking off.

“It really feels like Brisbane’s start-up community is moving in the right direction,” he said.

“There are more and more events and groups geared towards start-ups and so many start-ups working on some great things. The community has never been riper.

“Often, the challenge with owning a startup is having to work or study full-time while trying to get your business off the ground, so a small amount of money can go a long way to helping validate your idea, whether that be getting you to an important event, getting you advice or even getting desk space around like-minded people.”

Budding entrepreneurs who can demonstrate they have an idea for a digital business, or who have recently launched a business they need help to accelerate can apply at www.digitalbrisbane.com.au/ buddingentrepreneurs The first funding round will open on June 15, close on July 15 and grant recipients will be notified by July 30.

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This project has been funded by the Department of Education, Training and Employment 24 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013

complement the surrounding traditional architecture.”

Cr Quirk said existing structures would be demolished to make way for two integrated buildings stepping from five storeys in height down to three along the roadway, with a roof top terrace on each.

Encompassing a gross floor area of 4730m², the five storey building will house 63 hotel rooms, with associated function facilities and multiple ground level retail and restaurant spaces.

The adjacent three storey building will feature the hotel restaurant and bar as well as multiple office, and commercial retail and restaurants throughout.

Two levels of basement parking beneath both buildings will provide 72 car spaces plus bicycle parking.

Cr Quirk said the proposed design also incorporated strict noise mitigation measures to limit any potential impacts on the surrounding area.

“In addition to ensuring the site has sufficient transport infrastructure and noise mitigation design, footpath upgrades are also mandatory to development approval alongside protection of the existing significant fig tree along Racecourse Road,” he said.

Eur Ing Bishnujee Singh receives prestigious Fellow Award from Society of Operation Engineers UK Courtesy Fen Tian

Monday ± Friday

BRISBANE City Council has approved plans to develop a new five-star boutique hotel at the corner of Racecourse and Lancaster Roads, Hamilton.

Lord Mayor Graham Quirk said the development had the potential to deliver a significant economic and tourism boost to the local area and wider city.

“This development will not only contribute to Brisbane’s growth as a vibrant tourism and leisure destination, but will subsequently generate construction jobs and permanent positions when the hotel and surrounding office and commercial facilities open,” Cr Quirk said.

“Brisbane’s new autumn/winter tourism campaign is expected to generate more than $54 million in economic impact and attract more than 332,000 attendees to the city’s events over the autumn and winter months.

“The city’s winter racing carnival is a major attraction and this five-star hotel will help ensure some of those economic benefits are received in the local community.

“This five-star hotel and mixed use commercial development is close to the heart of Brisbane’s racing precinct and has a landmark modern design which will

Cayley Aerospace Inc CEO Bishnujee Singh has been conferred with Fellow award from Society of Operation Engineers, UK on May 23, 2013 at London, UK.

11-14 June & 17-21 June 2013

New five star hotel for Hamilton, Brisbane

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FELLOWSHIP of Society of Operation Engineers is the highest grade of professional award, recognizing exceptional commitment to operational engineering.

This accolade recognizes Mr Singh’s innovative practices and international eminence within the aerospace and mechanical engineering community.

It is the ultimate benchmark for practicing professional leadership in Aerospace operational Engineering in the UK and further recognizes the ability of these individuals to lead people and manage change within their organizations. The Fellow Award from SOE is highest and most prestigious individual honor in Aerospace operation Engineering. It is presented to members who have made a sustained and significant contribution to Aerospace operational Engineering profession, advancing the state-of-the-art and promoting professionalism among engineers.

Mr Singh has numerous achievements and Honors till date from across the continents.

Mr Singh heads the Clayey Aerospace Inc in Lynnwood, Washington with subsidiary branches Cayley Engineering UK Limited in UK, Cayley Aerospace-China, Cayley Engineering Egypt Limited in Cairo, Egypt. Mr Singh was born in Kolkata and has Master of Science in Advanced Engineering from Sheffield Hallam in United Kingdom. Mr Singh has also been Aeronautical Engineering Graduate from

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The Aeronautical Society of India. Mr Singh has been conferred with Fellow of Engineers Australia in Oct 2009 in Australia for setting new standards in Aerospace Engineering profession.

Recently Mr Singh has been conferred with Fellow of Institute of Leadership & Management UK and Fellow award of Chartered Management Institute UK for excellence in Aerospace Leadership and management. Mr Singh holds the distinction of being First ever Professional Engineer in Aerospace discipline. Mr Singh was recipient of First Ever Royal Aeronautical Society Cayley Award in England in 2003 on 100 years of Aviation. Mr.Singh is Registered Professional Engineer with Board of Professional Engineers in Queensland, Australia.

Mr Singh has been awarded with Modern Day Technology Leader Award in 2011 at BEYA STEM in Washington DC, USA. Mr.Singh has been also honored with Legacy Award on June 2011 at Florida, USA by MIRS, WOC, and BEYA Alumni Reunion meet.

The Society of Operations Engineers (SOE) is an Professional Engineering Institution in the United Kingdom under Engineering Council-UK, formed by the merger of following three bodies in 2000: Institute of Road Transport Engineers (IRTE), Institution of Plant Engineers (IPlantE), and Bureau of Engineer Surveyors (BES).

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013 — 25

Who, What, Where, When

• Central Queensland Ramayan Mandali Emerald celebrated Ram Naumi at Mr Aneel Dewans residence.

• The Brisbane Malayalee Association (BMA) held its Annual General Body meeting on the 20th of April 2013, at the Wavell Heights Community hall amidst the ‘Vishu Easter celebrations’, performed by young talented artists. The following persons were elected as office bearers: Pictured above from left: Secretary: Mr Biju Thomas, Vice President: Mr Rensi Mathew, Joint Secretary: Mr Antony Pullicodu, Mrs Rajni Nair, Treasurer: Mrs Vini Hormis, President: Mr Manoj George, Mr Shaji Burpengary, Mr Paulson Joseph.

• “Brisbane’s own, Yuvraj Singh is the Round 6 nomination for the NAB AFL Auskicker Of The Year Award”

• Qld Telugu New Year Ugadi was celebrated on 20 April, 2013. Full report on page 12.

• Sunil Datt, President of Shree Sanatan Dharan Hindu Association of Qld receives Bharat Gaurav Award from another recipient Mr Surendra Prasad (Patron FICQ) at a dinner nite at Punjabi Dhaba Indian restaurant Kuraby. Sunil could not go to Delhi to receive this award.

Approximately 45 people attended the dinner.

• At the Brisbane Powerhouse - Saikat Bhattacharya (sitar) with Ravikesh Singh (tabla) and Bipasa Bhattacharya (tanpura).

• Ms Somika Lal daughter of Moti and Bidya Lal wed Dr Shivnesh Rao son of Gyaneshwar and Asha Rao at Tavernetta function centre on 12 May 2013.

• At the Sandgate Wellness Expo - Saikat Bhattacharya (sitar) with Dheeraj Shrestha (tabla) and Bipasa Bhattacharya (tanpura).

• Left & Below: Indian Senior Citizens Association members recently visited Lions Park, Hope Island for a picnic. It was a lovely day that gave them a chance to mingle in a relaxed environment. Photo’s courtesy Bir Sahai - President, Indian Senior Citizens Association.

26 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013 — 27

Who, What, Where, When

• Prime Minister met with High Commissioner for People’s Republic of Bangladesh, Lt Gen Masud Uddin Chowdhury, to offer condolences for the grievous suffering and loss of life incurred by the collapse of the Rana Plaza building in Dhaka.

• From left: Sunny Lalwani, Shyam Das, DR Maha Sinnathamby, Umesh Chandra, Amy Jaggessar and Yoga Sinnathamby at the launch of Encounters: India at South Bank.

• Brisbane Baba’s Band recently performed at Queen Street Mall.

• Senator Penny Wong, Usha Chandra & Federal Member for Moreton, Graham Perret at the campaign launch dinner at Michael’s Oriental Restaurant.

• ‘Rangeelay’ Brisbane launch party with Jimmy Shergil at Jatt Indian Restaurant in Fortitude Valley.

28 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013

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• Lord Mayor Graham Quirk at GOPIO Qld stall prior to delivering the opening speech

• Vedanta Qld Chapters 9th year celebration: Left: Dr Maha Sinnathamby, Multicultural Minister Glen Elmes and Dr Naidu Bodapati lighting the lamp at Vedanta Qld Chapters 9th Year celebration.

• Hon. Tony Abbott MHR leader of the opposition with David Lin at the Federal Budget reply lunch on 21 May at Brisbane Convention Centre.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013 — 29

GOPIO NEWS....

Memorial for the Indian GOPIO prominent at deportees in Guadeloupe Guyana’s 175th Indian

arrival day commemoration

• Indian prisoners.

A MEMORIAL for Indian deportees who gave their lives in the plight will be inaugurated in Guadeloupe at a function to be held from 30th May till 2nd June 2013.

42,873 committed Indian, rich in their culture, left India on contract (Girmit) between 1854 and 1889 for the distant shore of Guadeloupe, in The French West Indies with their hearts full of dreams and hopes.

On their arrival, the cultural shock was brutal, their reception was not welcoming and they found themselves between the colonialist and the liberated people who regarded

them with a certain hostility as the masters were still recovering from the spirit of slavery.

Exploited, humiliated, beaten, condemned and deported, hundreds between them died in atrocious conditions for reclaiming their rights their religious practices and mainly the repatriation to their country after the end of their contract.

Thirty-five of them were deported to the Islet of Goats and died there under atrocious conditions. It is in their memory that the monument will be inaugurated.

On this occasion, invitations have been sent to The Honourable President of India Mr Pranab Mukherjee, Honourable Minister of State for Personal, Public Grievances and Pensions Mr V. Narayansamy, Mr Vayalar Ravi Honourable Minister of PIO, from India as well as High Dignitaries for The West Indies, South America and other countries. Umesh Chandra GOPIO International Coordinator (Oceania) will be attending this historic event together with other GOPIO International officials.

• Penitentery.

GOPIO International South Africa launched with fanfare

• Unveiling of Memorial at Highbury: (Left-Right): Dr Frank Anthony (Minister of Culture, Sports & Youth); Ashook Ramsaran (President of GOPIO International); Chandra Sohan (Magistrate & Berbice Indian Cultural Committee); Sasenarine Sankar (President of GOPIO Guyana); Dr Yesu Persaud (Chairman of Indian Commemoration Trust, founding life member of GOPIO and former president of GOPIO Guyana); Puran Pal Meena (Indian High Commissioner in Guyana); Hemraj Kissoon (founding life member of GOPIO).

ON celebrating 175th year of Indians arrival day in Guyana a special monument was unveiled to mark the historic landing site of the first Indians to arrive. The

memorial is situated in Highbury.

Ashook Ramsaran GOPIO International president (originally from Guyana) was present at the unveiling of the monument.

The inscription on the monument

On these shores they arrived ....

This memorial commemorates the thousands of indentured Indian labourers who arrived here starting on 5th May, 1838.

In honoured tribute, gratitude and lasting remembrance of their pioneering spirit, determination, endurance, resilience and sacrifices.

Individually and collectively they have made invaluable contributions to the diverse culture and economic development of Guyana and other lands.

Dedicated on 5th May, 2013

• L to R - K N Gupta, Director for Govt. Liaison in India, Munish Gupta, Internationa Coordinator - Africa, Deepak Sharma EVP Kotak Mahindra Bank NRI Services, Loshni Naidoo Country Coordinator South Africa, Sudesh Maharaj President Durban Chapter South Africa.

DURBAN (South Africa), April 28, 2013: Secretary of Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs, Mr Rajiv Mehrishi, High Commissioner of India in South Africa, H.E. Ambass-ador Virendra Gupta, Consul General of India in Durban, H.E. Ambassador V K Sharma, Honorable Mayor of Durban’s representative Councillor Michael Abrahams, GOPIO International’s Coordinator for Africa Munish Gupta and GOPIO International’s Direct-or for Government Liaison K N Gupta were among nearly 300 South

African PIOs and NRIs to mark the launch of the Durban Chapter with GOPIO International’s official foray into South Africa on April 28, 2013, at a 5-hour-long extravaganza that took place at the chic Jaipur Palace Restaurant in Durban North.

GOPIO International South Africa’s Durban chapter achieved the distinction of several firsts – marking an inauguration in the city of Mahatma Gandhi, within six months of formation and with 100 members already subscribed. The success of the launch is expected to aggregate more than 250 mem-

30 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013

bers by the end of 2013. growing GOPIO fraternity worldwide. Mrs The evening began with messages from Navanethum Pillay, United Nations Honorable Indian Minister of Overseas Commissioner for Human Rights, based in Indian Affairs H.E. Mr Vayalar Ravi Geneva, a PIO from South Africa, also sent through video who spoke highly of GOPIO her congratulatory note on the launch of International’s role and engagement with GOPIO International chapter.

India in reaching out to and serving overseas Indians. Mr Ravi congratulated Durban on the launch event and talked about the historic ties between India and South Africa.

Mahatma Gandhi’s granddaughter Ela Gandhi sent a wonderful message, speaking of a special role the Diaspora must assume and play to assimilate in their country as much as they cherish and stay with their roots.

GOPIO International After the inauguration, Secretary MOIA Rajiv Mehrishi, High President Ashook Ramsar- •Commissioner HE Ambassador Virendra Gupta and Consul General an congratulated Indians in Ambassador V K Sharma pose for a group picture with Munish South Africa on the Gupta, K N Gupta and Office Bearers & Executive Committee of momentous occasion and GOPIO International South Africa Durban Chapter at the Jaipur welcomed them into the Palace Restaurant on April 28, 2013, in Durban.

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History of Bollywood From Dhaval Vyas Ahmedabad. India EVEN if you’ve never actually seen a film from India, the word Bollywood immediately conjures up images of sumptuous, brightly colored productions shot in exotic locales featuring beautiful stars partaking in impressively choreographed song and dance numbers. But what is the history of India’s national cinema, and how did it grow to become one of the country’s most powerful and financially lucrative industries, and the world leader in both the number of films produced each year as well as audience attendance?

Bollywood is the name given to India’s film making industry much as Americans associate Hollywood with film production.

What most people don’t realize, however, is that Bollywood has a long and rich history that goes almost as far back as that of Hollywood.

The first films every produced in India’s Bollywood were soundless short films. The Lumiere Brothers created them in 1896 at the Watson Hotel. It wasn’t until May of 1913 when the first movie filmed by an Indian was released for viewing in Bombay.

This film was called, “Raja Harishchandra”.

Because of technological limitations, it took a bit longer for ‘talkies’, or movies with sound, to reach India.

The first talkie was released for viewing in India in March of 1931 and was named, “Alam Ara”. The films produced in the 1930s in Bollywood were used to raise awareness to what filmmakers saw as the social ills of the day. By this time, the industry was booming. Several well-known filmmakers and producers from all over India were producing films with dialogue in most of India’s diverse language groups. The first color film, “Kisan Kanya”, was released during this time.

World War II and Indian independence from Britain did nothing to slow

down India’s film industry. The industry in India was fast becoming known as India’s obsession. Post independence Indian cinema gained a wide recognition.

The creation of the Film and Television Institute of India, FTII, a national cinema awards show, and India’s first International Film Festival rocketed Bollywood to the world sIndian filmmakers widely expanded movie genres from the 1960s through the 1990s to include action films, thrillers, musicals, and love stories. Currently, many new Indian directors are gaining world prominence with movies such as “Dil Chahta Hai” and “Bheja Fry”. tage.

India’s struggle for independence in the 1950s finally parted the curtain on the Golden Age of Indian cinema. This historic period provided a strong impetus to the industry, with themes changing to social issues relevant at the time. Sure they were entertaining but the movies were now also a potent medium to educate the masses.

1920-1945 The early 1920s saw the rise of several new production companies, and most films made during this era were either mythological or historical in nature. Imports from Hollywood, primarily action films, were well received by Indian audiences, and producers quickly began following suit.

However, filmed versions of episodes from classics such as The Ramayana and The Mahabharata still dominated throughout the decade.

1931 saw the release of Alam Ara, the first talkie, and the film that paved the way for the future of Indian cinema. The number of productions companies began to skyrocket, as did the number of films being produced each year—from 108 in 1927, to 328 in 1931. Color films soon began to appear, as did early efforts at animation. Giant movie palaces were built, and there was a noticeable shift in audience makeup, namely in a significant growth in working-class attendees, who in the silent era accounted for only a small percentage of tickets sold. The WWII years saw a decrease in the number of films produced as a result of limited imports of film stock and government restrictions on the maximum allowed running time. Still, audiences remained faith-

• Alam Ara.

ful, and each year saw an impressive rise in ticket sales.

Birth of the New Wave It was around 1947 that the industry went through significant changes, and one could argue that it was during this time that the modern Indian film was born. The historical and mythological stories of the past were now being replaced by social-reformist films, which turned an often critical eye on such social practices as the dowry system, polygamy and prostitution. The 1950s saw filmmakers such as Bimal Roy and Satyajit Ray focusing on the lives of the lower classes, who until then were mostly ignored as subjects.

Inspired by social and political changes, as well as cinematic movements in both the US and Europe, the 1960s saw the birth of India’s own New Wave, founded by directors such as Ray, Mrinal Sen, and Ritwik Ghatak. Driven by a desire to offer a greater sense of realism and an understanding of the common man, the films during this era differed greatly from larger commercial productions, which were mostly escapist fare. It was the latter that would eventually become the template for the Masala film, a mash of genres including action, comedy, and melodrama punctuated by approximate-

ly six song and dance numbers, and the model still used for most contemporary Bollywood films.

The Masala Film – Bollywood as we know it today Manmohan Desai, one of the more successful Bollywood directors of the 1970s who is considered by many to be the father of the Masala film, defended his approach thusly: “I want people to forget their misery. I want to take them into a dream world where there is no poverty, where there are no beggars, where fate is kind and god is busy looking after his flock.” The hodgepodge of action, romance, comedy and of course musical numbers is a model that still dominates the Bollywood industry, and though greater attention is now paid to plot, character development, and dramatic tension, it is, in most cases, sheer star power that accounts for a film’s success.

With the recent success of films like Slumdog Millionaire and the injection of foreign capital into the Indian film industry, Bollywood is perhaps entering a new chapter in its history, one in which the eyes of the world are now paying closer attention. But the question remains – will a Bollywood film ever find crossover success with mainstream American audiences?

Ingenuity used by Vikas Swarup in ‘The Accidental Apprentice’

By Rama Gaind INDIAN diplomat and best-selling author Vikas Swarup has an appealing ingenuity when it comes to telling a story.

All his three novels are set in India with plot-driven narratives that are ideal for the big screen.

The first one—‘Q & A’ was adapted for the 2009 Academy Award-winning film, ‘Slumdog Millionaire’ and the second—‘Six Suspects’—is a multi-layered story about crime and corruption that’s based on true life events. It is going to be made into a movie, directed by Argentinian Pablo Trapero.

His new book, ‘The Accidental Apprentice’, has the hallmarks of a successful screenplay that might just hit pay dirt as ‘Slumdog’ did four years ago.

Vikas utilises his “real strength” to tell “hopefully a gripping, suspenseful and entertaining” narrative.

Communicating by email, Vikas said the book had already drawn “strong interest from Bollywood, but nothing has been finalized yet”.

Describing himself as “a diplomat who writes, not a writer who masquerades as a diplomat”, he is still stationed as India’s Consul-General in Osaka-Kobe, Japan.

Presently, he is taking a well-earned break from writing.

‘The Accidental Apprentice’ (Simon & Schuster, $24.99) can be likened to ‘Q & A’ as this too is a “high concept character-driven story which also seeks to capture the Zeitgeist of our times”.

However, the latest book is different in that the protagonist is a woman. Moreover, she is undeniably middle class compared with the underclass in ‘Q & A’.

Basis for ‘The Apprentice’ The basis for the ‘Apprentice’ comes from books in the olden days like the Arthashastra that talked about the attributes of a good king. As talk nowadays is about the qualities of a successful CEO, he thought it would be interesting to frame a coming-of-age narrative based on the trials one has to go through to become a CEO. Think of this as a “21st century take on Cinderella”, except that instead of meeting her Prince Charming she is being offered the CEO-ship of a $10 billion company.

Here’s a glimpse of the scenario from the 436-page social thriller. Sapna Sinha, 23, is a salesgirl in an elecCall Trudi on 07 3356 0102

• Vikas Swarup describes himself as “a diplomat who writes, not a writer who masquerades as a diplomat”.

tronics shop, who gets the chance of a lifetime … to run a billionaire’s company … provided she passes a series of seven tests.

She is approached by Vinay Mohan Acharya, 68, one of India’s richest businessmen outside the Hanuman Temple in Connaught Place, New Delhi, and asked to become the CEO of ABC group of companies, which he owns.

Acharya has a simple basic philosophy: you never get what you deserve in life, just what you negotiate, but a stage comes when there’s not much room for compromise.

Sapna supports her widowed invalid mother and feckless sister, but more than corporate conflict and Acharya, she’s www.indiantimes.com.au

fighting ghosts from the past.

To be successful, Sapna must pass the trials from the “textbook of life”.

Moral toughness She works her way through a series of challenging situations: returns a diamond ring to a Bollywood star (succeeds in the test of ‘integrity’), liberates a village girl from a forced marriage (passing the test of ‘courage’), followed by triumphs in assessments for leadership, foresight, resourcefulness and decisiveness.

The seventh is the essential quality in a leader: wisdom.

Not being prepared for this—the hardest test of all—it pushes her to the limit, twisting out of control, but she fights back.

‘The Accidental Apprentice’ is an account of a young woman’s ethical toughness against the corruption of modern India. The storyline has a predictable cast: spirited heroine, dishonest politicians, family dramas and dilemmas, child slavery, the handsome psychopath, sexual assault, murder, bartered kidneys, acid attacks, scamming and trickery.

Sapna is courageous, intense and she’s likeable, even though her reflections on life can be astonishingly commonplace.

Nonetheless simple, honest folk • ‘The Accidental triumph.

Apprentice’, written by Sure the book’s unbelievable, Vikas Swarup, has drawn but by the same token it is com- “strong interest from prehensible with a far-fetched Bollywood”. ending that consciously elevates and is oddly jubilant.

The plot is over-the-top yet you don’t feel that it is out of context, the prose is equally melodramatic, clichés abound but rationality prevails over most of the improbable twists in the lives of an astonishing group of characters.

Set against the sights, smells and contrasts of the capital, contemporary India turns lively in this escapist pageturner!

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013 — 31

Hold on to your pearls Sins and Merits WHILE carrying out actions in our day to day life, we reap the consequences of those actions in the form of merits and sins. Merits and sins determine the amount of happiness or sorrow we experience.

Therefore, it is important to understand how to avoid sinful actions.

A merit is the consequence of a virtuous act, due to which we experience happiness. For example, helping friends with finance or advice invites merit.

Through merits, we bestow welfare on others. For example, donating towards a cancer charity may help a number of patients suffering from cancer, which in turn brings us merits.

A sin is the consequence of a bad act and it brings us sorrow in return. Sins are generated by acts which bypass or are against the Laws of Nature and God, which bring someone else’s decline or when one does not fulfil their duties.

There are a number of reasons one may incur merit.

The most common ones are: * Carrying out benevolent acts * Following righteous conduct as described by Holy texts Some of the reasons we incur sin are: * Selfishness and desire in the form of anger, greed and envy * Being unprincipled or cruel * Selling prohibited articles, not repaying debts, conducting illegal transactions, gambling, stealing * Giving a false testimony, making false accusations * Adultery, incest, rape etc. * Violence * Inappropriate expenditure and misappropriation of wealth belonging to God, a temple, spiritual organisation etc.

Depending on the quantity of merit, a person experiences proportionate happiness on the Earth as follows, and finally based on merits gained during life on Earth they acquire the happiness of Heaven. * Birth in a wealthy and cultured family * Growing income * Worldly pleasures * Fulfilment of desires * A healthy life * Praise and recognition from society, organisations and government * Spiritual progress * Joy of Heaven after death From the perspective of spiritual growth, there are limitations with regards to merits. A meritorious life takes the individual to Heaven, but once the merit is exhausted, the person has to return to Earth in their next birth. Therefore merits are also a type of bondage. Only spiritual practice can take us to the Final Liberation (Moksha).

As we experience happiness every moment, we deplete our merit, so one has to work towards increasing the merit. This is possible through meritorious actions or spiritual practice. The difference is that meritorious actions bestow happiness, whereas spiritual practice brings about spiritual progress, meaning it bestows Bliss, which is beyond merit-sin and joy-sorrow. As a by-product, there is happiness.

Understanding the difference between merits and sins as well as the depth and length of their effect on us helps steer our behaviour and actions. However to become free from both, it is necessary to perform regular spiritual practice.

You can read more about this article on http://www.spiritualresearchfoundation.org/whatare-merits-sins You can e-mail us your comments and queries at shobhana.shet@spiritualresearchfoundation.org

The special privilege of Indian birth

By Yadavendra Das CORNERS, recesses and little out the way customers are not to be neglected. On May 27 2013, I was doing my book distribution rounds and there was a side street with very few shops and which one would have a tendency to skip, thinking:” Oh to few customers here, insignificant!”

I thought: “Is this the recess where I shall find a good customer?” And it was. I found a nice lady who had tried to be a vegetarian, with relapses. She happily bought our best selling vegetarian cookbook “Cooking with Kurma” and gracefully accepted her complimentary copy of Renunciation through Wisdom. I also gave her my one sheet A4 catalogue prominently displaying the Hare Krishna Mantra: Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare with a request to chant it.

All glories to the Supersoul, who is the constant friend of the living entity and especially guides the Sankirtan person towards that conditioned soul who has developed even an atom of inclination towards Him! In the same town and same area but on the main street side walk, two well-dressed gentlemen in elegant suits were looking at buildings, one Indian, one Caucasian. They were driving an expensive dark blue Jaguar car. I approached the Caucasian gentleman first, made my standard presentation. He declined. I commented: “Are you looking at your next business venture?” He replied:” I am not, but he is.” designating with a nod of the head the Indian gentleman, who had in the mean time, nonchalantly walked a little distance away. I developed the impressions that the Caucasian gentleman was in fact a real estate agent, showing some rental properties to a prospective customer and that the Indian gentleman was trying to avoid me. So be it!

A few doors down and moments later, here they were again, in the ice cream shop! I immediately approached the Indian gentleman and showed him my folder with pic-

ture of Bhagavad-Gita As It Is. He replied that he was already in possession of BGAII. “Ok, the next step is Srimad Bhavatam, Sir please!” He agreed to buy one volume Srimad Bhagavatam, although he declined to buy the whole set, when I offered. He handed me the note that was already lying on the ice cream shop counter, which I changed. I went to my Sankirtan vehicle to fetch a copy of SB. He appreciated the darshan of Lord Shiva, who was pictured on the dust jacket, in the act of drinking poison. On book distribution Sankirtan, it is always refreshing to meet Indian ladies and gentlemen because they have a head start in Krishna culture having obtained the Indian body due to their past pious activities. The Indian body therefore also carries a special responsibility. Caitanya Caritamrta Adi Lila 9.41: TEXT 41 bhärata-bhümite haila manuñya janma yära janma särthaka kari’ kara para-upakära WORD-FOR-WORD MEANINGS bhärata—of India; bhümite—in the land; haila—has become; manuñya—human being; janma—birth; yära—anyone; janma—such a birth; särthaka—fulfillment; kari’—doing so; kara—do; para—others; upakära—benefit.

TRANSLATION “One who has taken his birth as a human being in the land of India [Bhärata-varña] should make his life successful and work for the benefit of all other people.

PURPORT The magnanimity of Lord Caitanya Mahäprabhu is expressed in this very important verse. Although He was born in Bengal and Bengalis therefore have a special duty toward Him, Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu is addressing not only Bengalis but all the inhabitants of India. It is in the land of India that actual human civilization can be developed.

Human life is especially meant for God realization, as stated in the Vedänta-sütra: athäto brahma jijïäsä. Anyone who takes birth in the land of India (Bhärata-varña) has the special privilege of being able to take advantage of the instruction and guid-

32 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013

DEAR reader, it things which are is our joy to invaluable.

Be bring you the willing to let go word of God. of the stones but Every day we Pastor Joseph Dass hold onto the get opportunipearls. One scripties to get upset ture says “Do not when things do not work out the throw away your pearls, hold onto way we want it. We can get worried them”. That means, be willing to when we receive unexpected bills, give them the car space but not get angry when people do not mea- your peace, let someone have the sure up, get frustrated when some- seat on the full train but not your one lets us down etc. What we do joy, let them overtake you but not not realise is that we are allowing your patience, let someone have things that we have no control over your place in the queue but not your to spoil our day. In most situations happiness. It does not mean you are it is the things we keep or let go weak. On the contrary, it means that which determine the kind of life we you are very strong but all your are going to live. You may not be strength is under your control and able to control what life gives you, subject to you and is most useful to but you can control what you give you. in life.

Some people keep allowing the Book of Acts chapter 3 talks about same circumstances and the same Peter and John going to the church people to upset them day after day, to pray. On the way, they met a beg- week after week, month after gar who asked for money. But month. Instead of being happy and instead of giving him money, Peter filled with joy they can become said to the beggar “silver or gold I angry, upset and unhappy. Over a do not have, but what I do have I period of time they have continugive you. In the name of Jesus ously given away things that were Christ of Nazareth, walk’’ and the too valuable, too precious to them. man stood up and began to walk.

Don’t let that be you. Make a deciHere is the key. Some things are sion each day to not let go of things too important, too valuable to give that are priceless. No one can take away. If you are living a life frus- it from you without your permistrated, upset or impatient, then it sion. Be in control of your life. may well be that you are allowing Make choices that you are willing situations or people to control your to let go of some things so you can life. Your joy, peace and happiness hold on to the things that are of are too important to give away. great value.

Make allowances to give up things God bless you of lesser value but hold on to these Pastor Joseph

ance of the Vedic civilization. He automatically receives the basic principles of spiritual life, for 99.9% of the Indian people, even simple village farmers and others who are neither educated nor sophisticated, believe in the transmigration of the soul, believe in past and future lives, believe in God, and naturally want to worship the Supreme Personality of Godhead or His representative. These ideas are the natural inheritance of a person born in India. India has many holy places of pilgrimage, such as Gayä, Benares, Mathurä, Prayäga, Våndävana, Haridvära, Rämeçvaram and Jagannätha Puré, and still people go there by the hundreds and thousands. Although the present leaders of India are influencing the people not to believe in God, not to believe in a next life and not to believe in a distinction between pious and impious life, and although they are teaching them how to drink wine, eat meat and become supposedly civilized, people are nevertheless afraid of the four activities of sinful life—namely illicit sex, meat-eating, intoxication and gambling—and whenever there is a religious festival, they gather together by the thousands. We have actual experience of this. Whenever the Kåñëa consciousness movement holds a saìkértana festival in a big city like Calcutta, Bombay, Madras, Ahmedabad or Hyderabad, thousands of people come to hear. Sometimes we speak in English, but even though most people do not understand English, they nevertheless come to hear us. Even when imitation incarnations of Godhead speak, people gather in the thousands, for everyone who is born in the land of India has a natural spiritual inclination and is taught the basic principles of spiritual life; they merely need to be a little more educated in the Vedic principles.

Therefore Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu says here, janma särthaka kari’ kara para-upakära: if an Indian is educated in the Vedic principles, he is able to perform the most beneficial welfare activity for the entire world.

At present, for want of Kåñëa consciousness, or God consciousness, the entire world is in darkness, having been covered by the four principles of sinful life—meateating, illicit sex, gambling and intoxication. Therefore there is a need for vigorous propaganda to educate people to refrain from sinful activities. This will bring peace and prosperity; the rogues, thieves and debauchees will naturally decrease in number, and all of human society will be God

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conscious.

The practical effect of our spreading the Kåñëa consciousness movement all over the world is that now the most degraded debauchees are becoming the most elevated saints. This is only one Indian’s humble service to the world. If all Indians had taken to this path, as advised by Lord Caitanya Mahäprabhu, India would have given a unique gift to the world, and thus India would have been glorified. Now, however, India is known as a poverty-stricken country, and whenever anyone from America or another opulent country goes to India, he sees many people lying by the footpaths for whom there are not even provisions for two meals a day. There are also institutions collecting money from all parts of the world in the name of welfare activities for povertystricken people, but they are spending it for their own sense gratification. Now, on the order of Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu, the Kåñëa consciousness movement has been started, and people are benefiting from this movement. Therefore it is now the duty of the leading men of India to consider the importance of this movement and train many Indians to go outside of India to preach this cult. People will accept it, there will be cooperation among the Indian people and among the other people of the world, and the mission of Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu will then be fulfilled. Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu will then be glorified all over the world, and people will naturally be happy, peaceful and prosperous, not only in this life but also in the next, for as stated in the Bhagavad-gétä, anyone who understands Kåñëa, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, will very easily get salvation, or freedom from the repetition of birth and death, and go back home, back to Godhead. Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu therefore requests every Indian to become a preacher of His cult to save the world from disastrous confusion.

This is not only the duty of Indians but the duty of everyone, and we are very happy that American and European boys and girls are seriously cooperating with this movement. One should know definitely that the best welfare activity for all of human society is to awaken man’s God consciousness, or Kåñëa consciousness. Therefore everyone should help this great movement. This is confirmed in Çrémad-Bhägavatam, Tenth Canto, Twenty-second Chapter, verse 35, which is next quoted in the Caitanya-caritämåta.

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ME’RAJ -UN-NABI (SAW) THE EVENTS OF AL-ISRAA’ WAL-ME’RAJ

By Ml. Nawaaz Ashrafi ON 27th Rajab, all the Muslim believers celebrate this as a grand day of Meraj as “Grand Eid” and all the Muslims should be proud to have such a prophet like Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessing be upon him and his progeny (Ahlul Bayt), to whom Almighty Allah (swt) was also proud and had invited him to visit and talked with very nearer distance as mentioned in the Glorious Qur’an (Qhaba Qhausain 53:9).

Also note that, the Meraj of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessing be upon him has taken place more than once. However, it should be mentioned that Meraj in which the daily Salat was made incumbent, without doubt, occurred after the death of Hazrat Abu Talib, who passed away in the 10th year of Prophethood.

From the Ahadith and books of history, it is mentioned that on the night of Meraj, Allah (swt) gave the order of the five daily Salat as being mandatory upon the Islamic Nation.

The darkness of the night had spread across the horizon and silence reigned over the face of nature. The time had arrived when the living creatures take rest and sleep so that they might recuperate from their activities of the previous day. Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw), was also not an exception to this law of nature and he wished to take rest after offering his prayers (Salat) in the house of “Umm-e-Hani”, the daughter of his uncle and sister of Amir al-Mominin Ali (ra) in the blessed city of Makkah.

However, suddenly he heard a voice; it was the voice of the Archangel Jibreel (pbuh) who said to him: “This night you have to perform a very unique journey and I have been ordered to remain with you. You will have to traverse different parts of the world mounted on an animal named al-Buraq.”

Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessing be upon him began his historical night journey, along with the trusted protector of the revelation, the Angel Jibreel (pbuh) from the house of “Umm-e-Hani”, with the aide of his steed al-Buraq.

“After some time, Angel Jibreel (pbuh) stopped the Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) and said to perform the Salah.

The Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) dismounted from alBuraq and performed Salat. Jibreel (pbuh) said, ‘Do you know where you just prayed?’ Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) replied to him in negative. Jibreel (pbuh) said, ‘In Taibah (Madinah), that place where your travellers will go.’ After this, Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) got back onto al-Buraq and continued the journey.”

“Once again, Angel Jibreel (pbuh) stopped Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw)and said, ‘Perform the Salat.’ The Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessing be upon him once again dismounted al-Buraq, and performed Salat there.

Jibreel (pbuh) asked Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw), ‘Do you know where you just prayed?’ It is the Mountain of Sinai - the place where Prophet Musa / Moses (pbuh) spoke to Allah (swt).”

“Once again, the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessing be upon him ascended al-Buraq and continued.

Shortly afterwards, Angel Jibreel (pbuh) said, ‘Get down and perform the Salat.’ Then again Jibreel (pbuh) questioned, ‘Do you know where you just prayed?’ The Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) replied in negative, to which he answered, In Bait al-Laham (Bethlehem) - the place which is near to Baitul Maqdis and this is the place where Prophet Isa al-Masih (pbuh) was born.”

Then they reached Baitul Maqdis, which is located in today’s Zionist occupied Jerusalem and is also known as Masjid al-Aqsa (the Furthest Mosque) and Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw), proceeded to tie the reins of al-Buraq to the same ring that the great Prophets (before him) used to tie their animal to. After this Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessing be upon him and his progeny entered the Masjid and it was here that he met Ibrahim, Musa, Isa and the rest of the Prophets (pbut). They all gathered around him and they all proceeded to get ready for Salat.

Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessing be upon him and his progeny had no doubt that the Salat would be lead by Angel Jibreel (pbuh), however when the lines for the Salat were being formed, Angel Jibreel (pbuh) placed his hand on the shoulder of Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) and pushed forward. Angel Jibreel (pbuh) also took part in the Salat behind him along with the various Prophets (pbuh).

On the second part of his journey, he proceeded from this spot to the skies (heavens). The Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw), then observed the stars and the systems of the world and conversed with the souls of the previous prophets, and also with the angels of the heavens, peace and blessing be upon them all. The Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) saw the centre of the tortures and the blessings (hell and heaven) and became fully aware of the secrets of creation, the extent of the universe and the signs of the Omnipotent Allah (swt).

Then Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessing be upon him continued his journey and reached Sidrat ul Muntaha (Beyond this point nobody has access including Angel Jibreel (pbuh)). There he found it fully covered with splendor, magnificence and grandeur,then into the Exalted presence of Allah and then he returned back by the way he had travelled.The Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw), first came to Baitul Maqdis and then to Makkah. It was daybreak when he dismounted at the house of Umm-e-Hani from al-Buraq which had taken him into space. Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessing be upon him related this matter to Umm-e-Hani and the following night, he made it known to the assemblies of Quraysh as well. The word of his travels spread from mouth to mouth amongst all the groups, and now more than ever, the Quraysh were upset (with him).

According to an old tradition, the Quraysh asked the account of its structure, and Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessing be upon him not only described the physical particularities of Baitul Maqdis, rather, he even informed them of the event that took place between Baitul Maqdis and Makkah. The Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) said to them that he met the caravan of such and such tribe who lost their camel and he asked them to give him water and Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) drank water from their container. So they asked about the Quraysh caravan and he replied to them that he saw them at Taim. So Quraysh became very excited and it was not long after that the travellers (of that caravan) reported the exact events (as had occurred).

Proof of Isra and Miraj (Shab-e-Meraj, Lailat-ul-Miraj) in the Glorious Qur’an: The Heavenly Journey of Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessing be upon him and his progeny has been straight forwardly explained in two Surahs of the Glorious Qur’an.

In the Surah al-Isra (Surah 17 - also known as Bani Isra’il), it is mentioned: Glory be to Him Who made His servant (Prophet Muhammad) to go on a night from the Sacred Mosque (Masjid al-Haram) to the Farthest Mosque (Masjid al-Aqsa) of which We have blessed the precincts, so that We may show to him some of Our signs; surely He is the Hearing, the Seeing. (Glorious Qur’an, 17:1) From this verse, we come to the conclusion that Holy

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Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessing be upon him travelled with his physical body (servant) through the worlds of Ascension. Further, by the greatness of the Hidden Power, the Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) was able to complete this journey in a very short span of time.

Allah (swt) starts His speech with the phrase (Subhan) which denotes the fact that Allah (swt) is free from all deficiencies - but He does not stop here. Rather, He makes the ascension the reason for His greatness by saying ‘made to travel’ (Isra) so that others do not imagine that the means of this journey was through causes of the natural world and with normal, ordinary means of transportation.

This would have made his journey something that could have been denied. Rather, this journey was accomplished by relying upon the power of Allah (swt) and His specific and special blessings.

Although this verse states that the start of the journey was from Masjid al-Haram and ended at Masjid al-Aqsa, this does not contradict the fact that Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessing be upon him in addition to this trip, also had other trips towards the higher world, since another part of the journey of Ascension of Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) is explained in verses of Surah anNajm.

From the time Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessing be upon him told the Quraysh, ‘I saw the angel of revelation (when he received the first revelation) in his original and pure state,’ all the Quraysh raised up to mock him. Glorious Qur’an, in response to the thoughts of the ignorant people replies: “Will you then argue with him about what he saw? He certainly saw him (Jibreel) during his other ascent to the Lote-tree (in the seven heavens) near which is Paradise. When the tree was covered with a covering, (Muhammad’s) eyes did not deceive him, nor did they lead him to falsehood. He certainly saw the greatest (signs) of the existence of his Lord.” (Glorious Qur’an, 53:12-18) The object of this grand journey was to make known to Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessing be upon him and his progeny the various aspects of the existence of the great universe.

Miraj-un-Nabi and Modern Science: It has been an ongoing discussion and debate for hundreds of years concerning the method of travel of Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessing be upon him and his progeny during the Meraj. Many things have been said regarding this journey and its being physical or only spiritual even though from the Glorious Qur’an and the Ahadith there is no doubt that it was a physical ascension.

However, one problem from the point of view of science prevented some people in believing the reality and thus, the Meraj of Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) was recorded as being simply spiritual. Another group went a step further and believed that this complete event was simply a dream and that Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) experienced the Meraj during his sleep!

The heavenly journey went against the scientific and natural laws of today such as: the law of gravity of the earth; its speed of travel of 25,000 miles per hour; the weightlessness of an object that is outside of the airspace of earth; the fact that it is not possible to breathe the air that is outside our atmosphere; the various cosmic rays; meteorites and air pressure; and the speed of light that goes at the speed of approximately 300,000 kilometers a second; and other such examples.

Fortunately however, it must be known that through scientific research and investigation, the space scientists of the Soviet Union successfully launched Sputnik I. The world’s first artificial satellite was about the size of a basketball, weighed only 183 pounds, and took about 98 minutes to orbit the Earth on its elliptical path, on October 4, 1957. They were able to demonstrate to mankind with ease, that they could overcome such problems as the gravitational pull, cosmic rays, problems with breathing in space, and others, through various technologically designed and built equipment and instruments.

Even today, the space science research is ever increasing and the scientists and researchers are confident that in a matter of time, they will be able to place life on one of the planets in our solar system; just as today, they have opened up the exploration to the moon and the planet Mars.

These scientific progresses and advancements in technology and industry are a clear proof that such a celestial travel (that of Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessing be upon him and his progeny on the night of Meraj) is possible and cannot be classified as something that was impossible.

VIRTUES OF LAYLATUL BARAA’AH THE 15TH NIGHT OF AL- SHA’BAAN AL-MUAZZAM ML. M. NAWAAZ ASHRAFI THE following Ahadeeth emphasize the virtue of the fifteenth night of Sha’baan. In the hadith Rasoolullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) referred to this night as ‘the middle of Sha’baan’. The numerous statements and events narrated by the Sahaaba (radhiyallahu anhum) regarding its superiority leave no room to doubt the sanctity and virtue of this night, which the Ulema have termed LaylatulBara’at (the Night of Freedom), for on this night those who earned the forgiveness of Allah are entitled to freedom from Hell.

1) Hazrat Abdullah bin Umar (radhiyallahu anhu) reports that there are five nights in a year when duas are not rejected: The night of Juma (Thursday night), the first night of Rajab, the fifteenth night of Sha’baan, and the nights of the two Eids.

2) Hazrat Ayesha (radiyallahu anhaa) states: “One night I discovered that Rasoolullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) was missing from his bed. I went out looking for him and found him in Baqee (the cemetery of Madinah), with his head raised to the heavens (while making dua). The messenger of Allah then said to me: “Verily Allah descends to the first heaven on the middle night of Sha’baan (15th) and forgives more people than the amount of hair on the flocks of the kalb tribe.(Baihaqi) The following people are excluded from this widespread maghfirat of Allah: a) The Kaafir and Mushrik (one who associates partners with Allah). b) One who is disobedient to parents. c) Two Muslims who bear enmity towards each other. Allah waits for them to make up and seek each other’s pardon before enveloping them with his Mercy and forgiveness. d) The robber. (Narrated by Imam Baihaqi) 3) Hazrat Uthman bin Abul-Aas (radhiyallahu anhu) narrates from the messenger of Allah : When it is the 15th night of Sha’baan then an announcer proclaims: ‘IS THERE ANYONE SEEKING RIZQ (SUSTENANCE) SO THAT I MAY GRANT RIZQ? IS THERE ANYONE SEEKING FORGIVENESS SO THAT I MAY FORGIVE HIM? IS THERE ANYONE IN NEED SO THAT I MAY FULFIL THAT NEED? Consequently, anyone who asks from Allah that night will be granted his/her request, except the prostitute and the Mushrik

4) Another hadith narrated by our mother Hazrat Ayesha (radiyallahu anhaa) states that on this night Rasoolullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said to her: “Jibreel came to me and said: ‘This is the 15th night of Sha’baan. Allah has taken upon Himself to free from Jahannum as many people as the hair on the sheep of Kalb. On this night Allah does not look (with special Mercy) at the following people: The Mushrik; One who breaks family ties; One who wears his garments below the ankles out of pride; One who is disobedient to parents; A habitual consumer of wine; “Thereafter Rasoolullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) sought my permission to offer Ibadat on this night, which I naturally granted. He then offered salaah and made such a long sujood that I feared his soul had been seized. But when I drew near, I could hear him reciting duas in his sujood.

The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said that ‘Jibreel(as) commanded me to recite this dua repeatedly in the sujood of Tahajjud Salah’.

5) Hazrat Ayesha (radhiyallahu anhaa) reports that Rasoolullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said of the virtue of this night: “This is the fifteenth night of Sha’baan.

Verily Almighty Allah turns His Special Attention to His servants on this night. He then forgives all those who seek forgiveness, and bestows Mercy on all those who seek Mercy. However, he leaves the people of enmity as they are.”

6) Hazrat Abdullah bin Abbas (radhiyallahu anhuma) narrates that Almighty Allah casts His Special Gaze on the Holy Ka’bah once every year, and this is on the 15th of Sha’baan. When this happens then the hearts of the believers yearn for the Holy Ka’bah. (Kanzul-Ummal) 7) Hazrat Ali (radhiyallahu anahu) narrates that The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: “When the fifteenth night of Sha’baan comes then offer ibadat on that night and fast during the day, for most certainly Allah’s mercy descends to the first heaven at sunset and announces: Is there anyone seeking forgiveness, for I shall grant forgiveness. Is there anyone seeking rizq, for I shall provide rizq. Is there anyone in difficulty, for I shall alleviate that difficulty. Is there anyone who is in need, for I shall fulfil that need. These announcements continue until the break of dawn.”

From the above sayings of Rasoolullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) the following important points are learnt: * On the 15th night of Sha’baan, when the entire ummah will be blessed with extensive forgiveness and mercy, nine unfortunate souls will be deprived of this benefit. These are, the kaafier, the mushrik, one who disobeys parents, the alcoholic, one who breaks ties with family members, a man who wears his garments below his ankles, the robber, a woman who commits adultery or fornication, and one who has malice or hatred in his heart towards another Muslim. For these people to be included in the sweeping mercy of Allah on this auspicious night, they must make sincere taubah and stop the sin that they are committing, restore relations with family members, seek forgiveness from their parents, make good relations that were damaged, and give back the rights of those from whom these rights were usurped. This is an indication of how evil these sins are. Furthermore, similar to the sin of wine is the consuming and/or smoking of drugs and other intoxicants. People who indulge in this evil habit will also be deprived of Allah’s Special Mercy and Forgiveness, unless they repent and make a sincere effort to reform. * Allah promises to make provisions for our Rizq on this night. What a great opportunity to secure this area of our lives. Today Muslims throughout the world are facing financial problems, loss of income, drop in earnings, poverty, hunger, etc. All these difficulties can be resolved by making sincere dua to Allah on this night, when He appeals to us to ask Him for our rizq. In order to achieve their income and alleviate money problems, Muslims are resorting to methods which are haraam, such as gambling in horse-racing, casinos, lotteries, etc., indulging in interest-related businesses, working at places which are haraam, and so forth. What need is there to adopt such drastic measures which endanger our Iemaan when we can secure our rizq and income by making dua to Allah on these special nights. We therefore, appeal to all Muslims to utilize the valuable moments of Laylatul-Bara’at to earn the forgiveness and the sustenance of Allah. * There are special salaahs to be made on the 15th night of Sha’baan . Observe recitation of the Holy Quran, zikr of first and third kalimah, durood, istighfaar, nafl salaahs, tahajjud salaah, and mainly, dua. Ask Allah for all your needs as well as dua for the rest of the Ummat. * Endeavour to fast on the 15th of Sha’baan. * It is also a sunnah act to visit the qabrastan (Muslim cemetery) on this night, to make dua for the dead.

(Narrated in Al Fataawa Al-Hindiyya) The Signs of Fear: We can find out whether we fear Allah or are oblivious of him through some simple tests. Here are some of them: 1. The tongue informs us: if we talk evil, backbite and engage in frivolous gossip, it shows that there is very little concern. We should engage our tongues in the remembrance of Allah, in the recitation of the Quran and in circles of knowledge. 2. In the heart we should expel hatred, enmity and jealousy and replace them with well-wishing and care for Muslims 3. We should be careful of what we put in our stomachs. 4. Our eyes should not wander off to look at haram objects. 5. Our feet should not walk towards haram places. 6. We should not extend our hands for haram purposes. 7. We should be concerned in our good deeds that we don’t perform them for anyone else except Allah.

The Reasons For Fearing Allah: O servants of Allah, there are many reasons why we should fear. The following is a list of a number of them; * the fear of death before repenting; * the fear of not living up to one’s repentance and breaking one’s promise; * the fear of not being able to fulfil Allah’s obligations; * the fear of losing one’s softness in the heart and its hardening; * the fear of losing consistency; * the fear of allowing temptations to dominate; * the fear of Allah making one’s self responsible for doing goods deeds because of conceit; * the fear of becoming arrogant and egotistical due to the abundance of bounties; * the fear of being distracted from Allah by other creation; * the fear of being led to an evil ending through excessive bounties; * the fear of being punished early (i.e. in this world); * the fear of being disgraced at the time of death; * the fear of being beguiled by the glitter of this world; * the fear of Allah revealing one’s secret in one’s state of oblivion; * the fear of being stamped with a bad death at the time of death; * the fear of the pangs of death; * the fear of the questions of Munkar and Nakeer in the grave; * the fear of the punishment of the grave; * the fear of the horrors of the horizon (at the time of resurrection); * the fear of the awe during the presentation in front of Allah; * the fear and the shame of being naked (at the time of resurrection); * the fear of being questioned about every little thing in life; * the fear of the bridge (over Hell) and its sharpness; the fear of the fire, its chains and its torment; * the fear of being deprived of Paradise, the Eternal and everlasting kingdom and abode and * the fear of being deprived of seeing Allah’s tremendous visage.

The jurist of Samarkand says that the person who does one good deed should be weary of four things (imagine what a person who commits a sin should be afraid of): 1. The fear of not being accepted because Allah says: ‘Allah only accepts from those who fear.’ [Maidah: 27] 2. The fear of showing off, for Allah says: ‘They have

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been instructed to worship Allah sincerely; religion is for him Alone.’ [Bayinah: 5] 3. The fear of preserving the good deed because Allah says: ‘Whoever brings a good deed shall have ten times its reward.’ [An`am: 161] 4. The fear of being deserted in performing good deeds, for Allah says: ‘My reconciliation (with good) is only through Allah; it is upon Him that I trust and it is to Him that I resort.’ [Hud: 88] The Fruits of Fear: Imaam Ghazali (rahmatullahi `alayhi) says: ‘Fear rips away desires and muddens luxuries so that cherished sins become reprehensible, just as a honey lover is repelled by it when he learns that it has poison in it. This is how fear burns desires; disciplines the organs; subordinates the heart and gives it tranquility. It also enables the heart to rid itself of pride, hatred, and envy; and it leaves it absorbed in it (fear). Hence, the heart becomes preoccupied with its own worries and looks towards its best interest in the long run. It is then engaged in only matters like meditation, self-analysis and struggle.

It cherishes its time and moments.’ [Ihya: 4/160] Poems: Abdullah ibn Mubarak (rahimahullah) said about fear: When night befalls, they endure itand see it through bowing in ruku. Fear has released their sleep, so they stand and acquire security in vigilance.

Hasan ibn Hani (rahimahullah) composed the following (it has been credited to Imam Shafi`ee (rahimahullah)): Fear Allah and hope for every good thing from Him; Don’t follow your adamant self, lest you regret it; Remain in between hope and fear and you will rejoice with the Pardon of Allah if you submit. [Muajjamul Udaba: 17/303 credited to Imam Shafi`ee and also in the Divan of Hasan.]

PATIENCE OF THE NOBLE AND PATIENCE OF THE IGNOBLE Every person has to exercise patience in order to face difficulties, whether he does so willingly or unwillingly. The noble person exercises patience willingly, because he realizes the benefits of patience, and he knows that he will be rewarded for his patience and will be criticized if he panics. He is aware that if he does not have patience, panicking and impatience will not help him to regain missed opportunities, and will not take away things he dislikes.

Whatever is decreed and is qada’ wa qadr cannot be prevented from happening, and whatever is decreed not to happen cannot be made to happen. So an attitude of impatience and panic actually causes harm.

A wise man said: “A man with wisdom as soon as adversity appears does that which a foolish man does after a month (i.e. he resorts to patience)”.

The ignoble man exercises patience only when he realizes he has no choice. After wasting a lot of time and energy and panicking and struggling, he realizes that his impatience will not help him. Then he exercises patience in the same way that a person who has been tied up to be whipped exercises patience.

The noble person practices patience in obeying Allah, whilst the ignoble person exercises patience in obeying the Shaytan. So ignoble person have the greatest patience in following their own whims and desires, and have the least patience in obeying their Lord. They have the greatest patience in spending in the way of Shaytan and no patience when it comes to spending even a few pennies in the way of Allah. They will endure many difficulties in order to follow their own whims and desires, but cannot bear even the least difficulties in order to please their Lord. They will endure slander for the sake of committing wrong action, but cannot exercise patience in putting up with slander for the sake of Allah. Such people will avoid enjoining the good and forbidding the evil for fear of what people will say about them for doing so, but they will expose their honour to slander and bear it most patiently for the sake of following their own whims and desires.

Similarly, they are not prepared to practise patience in devoting themselves to Allah, but when it comes to devoting themselves to Shaytan and their own whims and desires, they will exercise remarkable patience. Such people will never be noble in the sight of Allah, and on the Day of Resurrection they will not be raised with the people of nobility and decency.

How to build Characteristics of the Believers From the morals and manners of the Salaf- as- Saaliheen was that they would constantly search their souls to breed in them the characteristics of the believers, and to discard the characteristics of the hypocrites. One is the opposite of the other. A summary of the believers characteristics is mentioned in His great Book saying, “Those who turn (to Allaah) in repentance; that serve Him, and praise Him; that wander in devotion to the cause of Allaah; that bow down and prostrate themselves (in prayer); that enjoin good and forbid evil; and observe the limits set by Allaah - so proclaim the glad tidings to the believers.” [9:112] Also, the believers will be successful. Those who humble themselves in their prayers; who avoid vain talk; who are active in deeds of charity, who abstain from sex except with those joined to them in marriage or (the captives) whom their right hands possess, for (in their case) they are free from blame. But those whose desires exceed those limits are transgressors. Those who faithfully observe their trusts and their covenants; who (strictly) guard their prayers: these will be the heirs who will inherit Paradise, to dwell therein.” [23:1-11] In the hadeeth, “None of you truly believes until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself.” [al-Bukhaari and others...Al-Hafidh said in “Fathul-Bari”: The fact that negating complete imaan and negating the name of a thing meaning negating completeness and perfection is derived from the Arabic language as is said, “Such and such is inhuman”.]

“By Allaah! He does not believe. By Allaah! He does not believe. By Allaah! He does not believe.” He was asked, “Who, O Messenger of Allah?” He, sallallahu `alaihi wa sallam, said: “Whoever does not safeguard his neighbour from his harms.” [al-Bukhaari and Muslim. Muslim’s version reads: He will not enter Paradise if he does not spare his neighbour from his harms.]

Yahya ibn Muadh (rahimahullah) gathered the characteristics of the believers in one of his essays as follows, “It is to be full of modesty, and to be harmless too. To be full of goodness and not to be corrupt. For the tongue to be truthful, for the words to be little and to be plentiful in good action. To have little slip-ups and not to be excessive. To be good to one’s relatives, building closeness between them. To be dignified and grateful. To be full of contentment if Allaah restricted some provision. To be forbearing and friendly to his brothers. To be compassionate and chaste. Not to curse, swear, insult, backbite, nor to gossip.

Not to be hasty, envious, hateful, arrogant nor vain. Not to lean towards worldliness, nor to extend long hopes and wishes. Not to sleep too much nor to be absent-minded, nor to show-off nor be hypocritical. Not to be selfish, but to be soft and cheerful, not servile. Loving for the sake of Allaah, being pleased for His sake and being angry only for His sake. His provision is taqwaa (reverential fear of Allaah). His worries are what will happen to him in the Afterlife. His friends remind him. His beloved is His Protector and Master. His struggle is for the Afterlife.”

Fudayl ibn `Iyad (rahimahullah) said, “A believer plants a palm tree and fears that thorns will grow. The hypocrites plant thorns expecting ripe dates to grow!”

O brother! Realise these facts and search yourself carefully before your death. Weep over your soul if you find in it the morals of the hypocrites. Increase in seeking His forgiveness. All praise be to Allaah Lord of the worlds.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013 — 33

Health Beauty Wellbeing Ayurvedic Herbal products….

Sat Sri Akal ji, Ayurveda is known as ‘Science of Life’ from 5000 years approximately. There are Great Natural herbs explained in Ayurveda which are widely adopted in Europe, US, Canada and Australia. There are few very common and important ayurvedic products are as follows1. NEEM Common name - Neem Ayurvedic name - Nimb Botanical name- Azadirachta indica Definition- (In Ayurveda) 1.(In Sanskrit Language) - “Nimbati sinchati swasthiam” - Means“Which Promotes Health” is called Neem 2.(In Sanskrit Language) - “Pichoom kooshthum mardayti naashyati” - Means“Which treats Skin problems” is called Neem Modern composition Mainly Natural Bitter compounds- Nimbin, Nimbinin, Nimbidin Metabolite- Azadirachtin and so many others.

Ayurvedic Features * Quality (Guna) - Light * Post Digestive Effect (Vipaka)- Bitter * Tastes (Rasa) - Pungent and Astringent * Potency (Virya) - Cold Ayurvedic Karmas (Actions)* As its of Cold Potency, it is Anti-Heat naturally * As its of Pungent Taste, it treats Acidity problem naturally * As its Astringent and Light in quality, it is Digested naturally * As its Bitter in taste, it is Analgesic naturally Medicinal Uses * Dried Flowers can be stored in ‘Honey’ and taken every night to Boost the ‘Immunity’. * All parts have Natural medicinal properties, specially ‘Internal Cleansing’ and ‘Skin Health and its Glow’ * All Natural compounds are found with ‘Spermicidal’ activity. * Neem is also used in ‘Cosmetic’ products like Neem soap, Balm, Creams and Tooth-pastes as Natural Anti-Bacterial and Anti-Fungal. * Neem branches are being ‘chewed’ to clean one’s teeth and to improve ‘Health of Gums’. * Traditionally, Neem leaves are being decorated on people’s entrance door as Garlands on ‘Festivals’ and Special ‘Spiritual occasions’. * Neem leaves are ‘boiled in water’ till water turns green colour. That’s water is very useful like in lowering the ‘High Blood Sugar’ * Neem’s 2 natural ingredients- Nimbin and Nimbidin, which are Anti-Inflammatory in action.

2. WITHANIA (ASHWAGANDHA) Common name- Withania Ayurvedic name- Ashwagandha Botanical name- Withania somnifera Modern Composition Mainly Alkaloids, Natural Steroidal Lactones, Tropine, Cuscohygrine, Withanolides, Withaferin A And so many others.

Ayurvedic Features * Quality (Guna) - Viscous and Light * Post Digestive Effect (Vipaka) - Natural Sweet * Tastes (Rasa) - Bitter, Pungent, Sweet

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* Potancy (Virya) - Hot Ayurvedic Karmas (Actions) * As it is ‘Viscous’, So it is Anti-Vata (AntiAnxiety and Stress) * As it is ‘Hot Potency’, So it is Anti-Kapha(Anti- THE Queensland Transcultural Mental Health Centre (QTMHC), Fat) and Digestive naturally * As its ‘Post Digestive Effect’ is ‘Natural Sweet’, Metro South Addiction and Mental Health Service is offering training So it is ‘Tonic’ naturally for workers in the mental health * As it is Light, its Weight-Reducer naturally. and multicultural sectors and active * As it is ‘Viscous’, so it is Anti-Cough naturally volunteers in cultural communities Medicinal Uses * It is very Strong ‘Rasayana’ herb (Rejuvenating who have the capacity to deliver the Agent) and ‘Vajikaran’herb (Aphrodisiac Agent) in BRiTA Futures for Adults and Parents group based program as Ayurveda from Ages. * It is Indian Ginseng, which is ‘Adaptogenic’ nat- part of their existing role, using their own organisational resources. urally What is the BRiTA Futures * It is Anti-Stress and Anti-Fatigue naturally.

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Australians” – is a group based 3. TRIPHALA program designed for adults with a Common name - Triphala culturally and linguistically diverse Ayurvedic name - Triphala Botanical names - (3 Natural Herbs (CALD) background who are learning to live in a new and different Combination) culture. The program uses an adult * Emblica officinalis (AMLA) learning approach and the strengths * Terminalia chebula (HARITIKI) of cultures of origin to help in the * Terminalia bellirica (BIBHITIKI) Triphala is very ancient Ayurvedic Traditional process of acculturation, which is combination formula of three best Ayurvedic the emotional journey of migration. herbal fruits, researched by Ayurvedic Yogis. It is a It includes learning activities to very common House Hold Ayurvedic health prod- strengthen participants’ personal and social resources and increase uct in India from ages. their resilience – so they can have a a. AMLA brighter life in their everyday enviMedicinal Uses * It is Best ‘Rasayana’ (Rejuvenating) as single ronment.

BRiTA Futures was developed by herb and in Triphala combination as well. the Queensland Transcultural * It is very good for Hair and Brain Health.

Ayurvedic Herbal products«. * It is one of the best Immuno-stimulant in All Mental Health Centre (QTMHC).

The program has two other verAyurvedic formulas.

Akal, Namaste, anditHello, *SatIt Sri is naturally Anti-Salaam Viral as contains 20 times sions, one for children and one for adolescents. Each BRiTA Futures more Vitamin C than Orange. groupbyprogram is delivered by two AYURVEDA is the Science of LifeRenal which diseases was giftedand to mankind * It is very effective in Cancer, trained Diabetes. great sages from time immemorial. I am going to explain a few of theProgram Facilitators who may be bilingual and bicultural. b. HARITIKI (IN PANJABImost important ayurvedic herbs in HARRAR) this column.

The Adults and Parents program Medicinal Uses consists of 8 x 2 hour sessions. * It is Best used for Male-Power in Ayurveda.

Each session includes information * It is an Natural Rasayana (Rejuvenative) agent about relevant topics as well as * It is Nervine Tonic interactive activities to learn and * It is very effective in Heart-Imbalances. * It gives very good results in Asthma and practice helpful new skills. Some of the topics include: cultural identity, Anorexia. migration process, acculturation c. BIBHITIKI (IN PANJABI- BAAHERA) stress, building positive family relaMedicinal Uses * It is one of the Best ‘Rasayana’ ( Rejuvenative) tionships, communication and conflict resolution, spirituality and IN OF COLUMNand END ‘Vajikaran’ (Aphrodisiac) agent. bicultural values. * It is Anti-Stress and Anti-Asthmatic naturally.

Dates: Thursday 5th and Friday 6th of December 2013 Time: 8:45 am to 4:30 pm Venue: Conference Room One, Amardeep Singh Ground Floor, 519 Kessels Road, Mob.- 0412 729 060 (Qualified Naturopath) - Adv. Dip. In Macgregor Naturopathy - 3yrs (Aus) (Ayurvedic Physician) - Facilitators: Elvia Ramirez and Bachelor In Ayurvedic medicine in Surgery - Shameera Osman, QTMHC Parking: “Park & Ride” at ANZ 5yrs.(India) -Amardeep Singh Stadium, Mains Road, Macgregor YOGA HERBAL HEALTH ( Qualified Naturopath)-Adv. Dip. In Naturopathy- 3yrs (Aus) Cost: Free for CALD community health@yogaherbal.com (Ayurvedic Physician)- Bachelor In Ayurvedic medicine n Surgeryvolunteers. $150.00 for Queensland www.yogaherbal.com

Health staff (cost of facilitator’s manual). $350.00 for non Queensland Health staff How to apply: email Elvia_Ramirez@health.qld.gov.au for the BRiTA Futures Training Application form and either email back or fax to 3167 8322 by Friday 8th of November 2013. You will receive a response to your application by Friday 15th of November 2013. If successful you will also receive instructions regarding payment.

As a trained Program Facilitator you will receive: • A facilitator’s manual • Ongoing support • A Certificate of Competence (non-accredited) You can expect: • Interactive training sessions with an opportunity to demonstrate your facilitation skills and receive feedback from peers and trainers.

• Time for discussion about acculturation issues and issues associated with organising a group, as well as facilitation of adults.

To be eligible to attend this training you will need to demonstrate that you: • Have lived in Australia for at least one consecutive year.

• Have access to adults with a CALD background through your work or volunteer activities.

• Have the support of an association, organisation or group who is willing to issue you with a letter describing the support they would provide to you in delivering BRiTA Futures.

• Are able to run BRiTA Futures as part of your existing role (whether volunteer/paid).

• Are able to deliver a BRiTA Futures program within 3-4 months of completing this training.

• Are willing to apply pre and post program evaluation tools to participants and provide this data to the QTMHC. • Have identified a co-facilitator who will be delivering BRiTA Futures with you.

• Have access to a venue for delivering BRiTA Futures and basic art materials (pens, paper, textas, coloured pencils, butchers paper), photocopier, etc.

• Are able to provide child minding, language assistance and transport support for participants as needed.

For additional information, phone Elvia on 3167 8333.

-5yrs.(India) YOGA HERBAL HEALTH health@yogaherbal.com www.yogaherbal.com Mob.- 0412729060

Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Qld Inc - Is SOUL part of the Almighty GOD. What do VEDAS say?

ACCORDING to the Vedas the world consists of three basic entities, God soul and matter. Everything in this world is recognised by their gun (qualities), karma (actions) and swabhau (personality). For two things to become one they must have same gun, karma and swabhau. For example sugar will mix with sugar and become one because they have the same gun, karma and swabhau.

But salt and sugar will never mix and be one because their gun, karma and swabhau are different. Similarly Gundh, karma and swabhau of God is different from the soul. Soul can never be ansh of God. Say for example if one takes one grain (ansh) of sugar from the whole bag , the gundh, karm swabhau of that grain as same as in the whole bag of sugar. For the soul to be ansh of God it must have the same gundh, karma swabhau as God. Now let’s see the difference between gundh, karma and swabhau of God and soul. God has no limit, souls have a limit. God is source of all knowledge and joy. The souls depend on God for their knowledge and joy.

Jitendra Deo President

God creates this universe for sake of the souls and the souls use the necessary things for their life. God does not take physical bodies. He does not need the aid of the physical organs, like eyes, hands etc. for seeing and doing. The souls function with the aid of these organs through the cycle of birth and death. The life after death is for the souls and not for God. God sees over the actions of the souls during their life cycles. Whatever good or bad actions the souls do, they are themselves responsible for it. Their present is decided by their entire past and their future would depend on their present actions. God gives the fruits of the good or the bad deeds while the souls suffer or enjoy them. God is just and merciful and therefore, Generous. He decides what would be most useful for the

34 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013

souls and while doing so He is never influenced by anyone. God is never liberated while the souls seek their liberation through their efforts.

God is above sins and mistakes. It is the soul that has wickedness and goodness. In order to raise the goodness to the maximum and bring down the wickedness, the souls are awarded favourably for their good deeds and punished for their bad deeds.

Another one if after death the souls unite with God then the question is who is going to get the results of all the actions that one has done in his or her life time. There has to be many lives to get the results of all the actions. So these are few differences between God and the souls. So since they have different gundh, karma and swabhau, the soul cannot be the ansh of God.( Satyarth Prakash chapter nine.) There are three things that are eternal in the universe. These have never been created nor will they ever be destroyed.(GOD, soul, matter) GOD - There is only one GOD. He is the Creator, Sustainer and destroyer of the uni-

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verse. He exists, is conscious and is blissful.

GOD has no shape or size and is present everywhere and watches and advises us in our souls at all times. He punishes us for our bad deeds and rewards us for our good deeds.

SOUL - soul is a living agent within us and is separate entity from GOD. There are many souls and souls are not part of GOD they are not ansh of GOD. Souls exist and are conscious. Souls enjoy the fruits of their good deeds and suffer as a result of their bad deeds.

MATTER - matter is the material out of which GOD evolves this universe. Matter exists and is never destroyed. It has no life in it. Being devoid of life and thus intelligence, matter can neither make nor unmake itself, but is always made or unmade by a conscious intelligent being.

Please contact Jitendra Deo 3263 1914 or Hari Chand 33454716 for information on activities of Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland or visit: www.aryasamajqueensland.com Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Health Beauty Wellbeing Could eating yoghurt help treat depression?

LOS ANGELES, May 30 (IANS) A new research reveals that probiotics found in natural yogurt could help boost a person’s mood because they affect brain function.

Previous studies have shown that beneficial bacteria affected the brains of rats but no research has confirmed that the same occurred in human brains.

The study found that those who ate probiotic yoghurt twice daily for a month showed altered brain function, both in resting brain activity and in response to an 'emotional attention task', which was designed to monitor how the brain responded to certain emotions, reports dailymail.co.uk.

It has also been known that the brain sends signals to the gut (stomach), which is why stress and other emotions can contribute to gastrointestinal symptoms.

"Our findings indicate that some of the contents of yogurt may actually change the way our brain responds to the

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environment," said Kirsten Tillisch of the University of California - Los Angeles's School of Medicine, who led the study.

"When we consider the implications of this work, the old sayings 'you are what you eat' and 'gut feelings' take on a new meaning," added Tillisch.

“Time and time again, we hear from patients that they never felt depressed or anxious until they started experiencing problems with their gut. Our study shows that the gut-brain connection is a two-way street," she said.

Tillisch's team recruited 36 women aged between 18 and 53 for the study.

They were assigned to one of three groups. One group ate a yogurt with live bacterial cultures containing probiotic strains twice a day for one month. Another ate a dairy product which contained no living bacteria, and the third was

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given no dairy products at all.

The results showed that women who ate the probiotic yoghurt had reduced activity in the part of the brain that handles aspects of cognition and emotion, while women who ate non-probiotic yoghurt or no dairy showed either no change or an increase in activity.

Emeran Mayer, who also worked on the study, said that what we eat alters the way our gut bacteria breaks down food.

He also suggested that specific probiotic strains in yogurt could have health benefits such as relieving anxiety, stress, and other mood symptoms over time.

“It is possible that changing the composition of gut bacteria could lead to treatments for chronic pain disorders as well as symptoms of brain conditions like autism, Parkinson's, and Alzheimer's disease,” he said.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013 - 35

Health Beauty Wellbeing Giving life back to skin Nimisha Modi Hetvi Hair & Beauty - 04 123 500 13

HEY Girls, Winter has approached us, mercury is dropping down. This is time of year we all want to soak our body in Sun. By all means I am in favour of this but with some precautions. Direct exposure to UV Sun rays increase the production of melanin pigment which is responsible for giving your skin a dark complexion. Never ignore the skin of hands, feet, back because just like face and neck they also suffer direct sun exposure, so before going out don`t forget to apply sunscreen lotion on your hands and feet along with face, back and neck. If you have fair complexion but dark hands and feet then don`t you don’t need to feel embarrassed anymore because now you can lighten the skin on body and can modify dark skin into fairer skin just by regular application of some natural tips which are

given below: Best Tips for your skin: (1) Apply raw milk on your skin before taking bath. Milk acts very well to lighten your skin.

(2) Grind the dry orange peel and make smooth powder. Now add some milk and apply the paste on skin. This is one of the best home remedy for dark skin and give you fair complexion.

(3) Add sandalwood powder, cucumber juice, tomato juice and lemon juice. Make a paste and apply this paste on the skin, After 15 minutes remove it with fresh water.

Regular application of this paste will make your dark skin fair complex.

(4) Make a paste prepared of gram flour (besan), turmeric powder (haldi), milk and apply on your body, After 15 minutes rinse off with water. Regular application of this paste gives your skin brighter, lighter and glowing complexion.

(5) Rub the cucumber or Aloe Vera on the skin for fairer and fresher skin.

(6) Potato juice also reduces dark pigmentation and help to lighten the skin.

(7) Take one table spoon of milk powder,

Fingers say it all....

Is the research reliable?

By Thilliar Varnakulasingham SCIENTISTS have been measuring and comparing hands, feet, ears, limbs, joints and other body parts for clues to personality behaviour. What does your body say about you? For example, extend your hand and compare the length of your ring and index fingers.

For most women they are about the same length and for most men, the ring finger is a bit longer.

The longer your ring finger compared with your index finger, the more likely you are to be aggressive, athletic and prone to depression, researchers say.

In this study, researchers usually measure the length of the index finger and divide it by the length of the ring finger to come up with a “digit ratio”. The lower the ratio, the more pronounced whatever effect is being measured, they say.

Now measure the smallest finger on each hand. If they match up, you may be close to symmetrical, which is good news if you are looking for a mate. If you are not symmetrical, you may have trouble getting a date.

Although this is not an exact science, some researchers believe body symmetry and the relative lengths of our ring and index fingers are influenced by our exposure to testosterone in the womb.

That exposure also influences a variety of personal traits.

Over the years, the field has generated more than 170 scientific papers identifying links in one form or another, to athletic ability, aggressive behaviour and proclivities for early heart attacks, depression and even sexual preference.

Those with symmetrical attributes are more likely to be athletic, have lower metabolic rates and have higher IQs, says Gordon Gallup, a psychology professor and researcher at the State University of New York, Albany.

Research into finger length was initiated in the late 1990s by John T. Manning, a British researcher who was intrigued by the finding

that finger length ratios are one of the few differences between the sexes that develop in the womb and are unaffected by puberty.

Finger length ratios remain constant throughout our lives.

“Lots of things show our sex differences, but most of them become larger or more obvious with the onset of puberty”, says Manning, a researcher at the University of Central Lancashire in England.

There is no way to know the exact percentage of men and women with equally sized ring and index fingers. But in a 1999 report on a survey of 102 men and women, Manning found men with longer ring fingers scored higher in tests used to detect symptoms of depression. There was no such pattern for women.

In another survey of male heart attack victims, he found those with longer ring fingers had their heart attacks later in life.

A recent report by researchers at King’s College in London, which linked running ability to longer ring finger ratios in women, was one of seven studies in recent years to make such a connection, he said.

In that study, researchers found that of 607 female twins ages 25 to 79, those with ring fingers longer than their index fingers were more likely to participate in sports and compete at higher levels— particularly in sports that involve running.

Previous studies have shown the same pattern in male athletes.

Manning acknowledges that some results are more reliable than others. There is still a lot of work to be done in this field.

36 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013

honey and lemon juice. Mix them and apply on skin. Leave this for 20 minutes and then wash off.

(8) Make a paste by mixing one teaspoon of lemon juice, one teaspoon of cucumber juice, and a pinch of turmeric powder.

Apply this mixture on body and leave it for 20 minutes to dry and then wash it off. Do it regularly and see the difference after 2

weeks.

(9) Exfoliate your skin use a scrub to remove dead cells. You can also mix salt and lemon juice, rub mixer on your skin.

Lemon acts as a natural bleach and cleanser and help a lot to remove dead skin cells and give you blemish free glowing skin.

(10) For Fairer skin mix three spoons of Borax powder, two spoons of glycerin, and two cups of rose water. Apply this mixture on your body and leave it for 15-20 minutes. Then wash it off with fresh water (11) For dark skin due to excessive Sun tanning, apply a paste made of oatmeal, curd, and fresh tomato juice on the affected region to lighten the skin in the affected area. After 15 minutes remove this mixture with fresh water, Do it regularly for 2 weeks or until required results.

(12) Soak four almonds overnight. In the morning remove their skin and grind them fine. Make a paste by adding one teaspoon of Gram flour (Besan), one Teaspoon of milk and four drops of Lime juice. A regular massage with this paste will bring Natural Fairness on your skin.

So there you go, apply and see benefit for yourself. See you till next time.

Nimisha

First puff of smoke: Age of onset falling NEW DELHI, May 30 (IANS) Vulnerable and curious youngsters make for a "soft target" for tobacco companies who glamourise their product, said experts as the age of onset of experiment with cigarettes or other form of tobacco worryingly fell to a startling 11-12 years.

WHO's theme for the World No Tobacco Day this year on strengthening laws that ban promotion of such products has been welcomed by experts who claim that the age profile of first time tobacco users in India is falling at an alarming rate.

Sameer Malhotra, mental health expert at Max hospital who has worked in tobacco de-addiction centres, said the age of onset of experiment with cigarettes or other form of tobacco has fallen from 15-16 years to 11-12 years.

"The age profile of children who try cigarettes or some other form of tobacco for the first time, as an experiment, is falling, and that is a disturbing trend," Malhotra told IANS. Calling tobacco a "gateway" to other drugs, he added that as a corollary to tobacco use at an early age, experimentation with drugs like marijuana or cannabis is also now seen among young children, in classes 7-8, and college-goers.

One of the main reasons for the falling age profile, experts feel, is glamourising of such products by tobacco companies and advertising them - despite a ban in place.

The Cigarettes and other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) 2003 prohibits all forms of advertising - direct, indirect or surrogate, promotion and sponsorship of tobacco products in all forms. It permits on-pack and Point of Sale (PoS) advertising with restrictions.

Bhavna Mukhopadhyay of the Voluntary Health Association of India (VHAI) blames the lack of strict implementation of the law, and the tobacco companies who resort to indirect advertising, for the continued high usage and www.indiantimes.com.au

• A two-year old Indonesian toddler is addicted to smoking cigarettes, after taking up the habit when he was 18 months old. (REUTERS)

sale of tobacco products.

"I agree that the government is doing a lot. COTPA talk about smoke-free places, and against advertising and promotion of tobacco products. Yet, implementation (of the Act) remains an issue, and tobacco related diseases and deaths make for one of the worst epidemics today.

Tobacco companies know that half of who use tobacco end up dying, and yet they continue to target the soft targets, the youngsters," Mukhopadhyay told IANS. In India, 10 lakh people die every year because of tobacco usage. Ten percent of these deaths are because of secondhand smoke, smoke that fills restaurants, offices and enclosed spaces after somebody else has burnt a tobacco product.

There are "brands who are primarily tobacco manufacturers and because there is a law, they bring out other products, like soaps and toiletries, tea, drinking water, under the same brand name. They hardly even break even with the other products, but the aim is to advertise the brand name, so that they next time you are at a tobacco shop, seeing that name strikes a chord", Mukhopadhyay said.

Malhotra agrees.

"Youngsters are a soft target, and when a tobacco company sponsors a youth event in a college, it's like reaching out to them directly," he said.

He also opines against serving flavoured hookahs, which recently got a go-ahead in Delhi restaurants with riders, because they are "soft ways of promoting a lifestyle" that may lead to smoking tobacco.

Oncologist U.B. Sharma feels that one of the measures that can be adopted is to make all public places smoke-free.

"Passive smoking is just as dangerous, pushing adults to cardiovascular problems, affecting children, and causing low birthweight of babies in pregnant woman. This step will at least keep non-smokers safe."

Mukhopadhyay adds that increasing taxes on tobacco products is a welcome step, and should be encouraged.

"Also, initiatives like the twothree spots on mouth cancer of a young boy, and tar in your lungs because of smoking, before every movie in cinema halls is good. I have seen people cringe at those scenes...that is the exact idea," she said.

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Health Beauty Wellbeing Queensland leads on research to prevent dementia THE Newman Government has made dementia research a centrepiece of this year’s Budget, with $9 million being invested in trying to find a cure for the disease.

Premier Campbell Newman said the funding would support work being done by the Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research (CADR) as part of a new researchdriven approach to treating dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Mr Newman said the funding would extend over five years and underpin CADR’s program of research with a focus on the development of clinical applications.

“Scientists believe the human brain has a remarkable ability to heal itself under the right set of conditions, but given the com-

plexity of the brain finding how we do that is extremely difficult,” Mr Newman said.

“If we can solve that indelible mystery – if we can find out how dementia and Alzheimer’s takes hold and then work to repair the damage they do - it will be a major triumph.”

Mr Newman said dementia research was seriously underfunded in Australia and Queensland’s ageing population reinforced the importance of Queensland’s new commitment.

“It’s important that we support this research because any money we spend now will save us in the long-term,” he said.

“The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reports the average hospitalisation

for patients with a principal diagnosis of dementia being almost 18 days, at an average cost of about $12,000.

“Alongside this, Access Economics estimates more than 215, 000 Queenslanders will have dementia by 2050, which would cost the state billions every year in direct and indirect costs.

“If we don’t conquer this debilitating condition, we will pay a very high price as a society because of its impact on families, as well as our social welfare and health systems.

“The fight against dementia is a real priority for my government and I applaud the incredible work being done by CADR in partnership with Queensland Health.”

The government’s funding commitment is subject to UQ developing a robust business case outlining how the research will translate into tangible benefits for Queenslanders, including improved diagnostic tests and tools to detect the disease as early as possible, and local Phase II clinical trials of new therapeutic approaches to prevent, treat and delay the onset of dementia.

CADR was established in 2011 as part of the Queensland Brain Institute at the University of Queensland (UQ).

The centre is dedicated to tackling dementia and Alzheimer’s disease through the developing science of neuroplasticity.

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Well known to many in Brisbane’s Indian community, Terri is considered among Australia’s leading specialist medical cosmetic laser operators. Her skills are used by Cutera Australia to train doctors and nurses on that company’s brand of superior quality medical laser machines - which are widely recognised as the best lasers for treating people with dark skin tones. At Rosalie Medical Spa Terri offers a diverse range of laser treatments for both medical and cosmetic issues, including treating women with dark skin for PCOS, hair removal, acne and vein removal.

Dr Shymal Dhar completed his medical training in Canada before migrating to Melbourne to pursue postgraduate studies at the Reconstructive Plastic Surgery Research Unit, The University of Melbourne.

In 2008, Dr Dhar moved to Brisbane and has continued clinical work including nonsurgical aesthetic rejuvenation of the face using non-permanent dermal fillers, Botox, and cosmetic laser applications. He is available for consultation at Rosalie Medical Spa.

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Call Terri today for a free consultation: Tel 0422 208 105 Rosalie Medical Spa • 5 Howard Street, Paddington • www.rosaliemedicalspa.com.au Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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medical

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013 - 37

Cold snap - havoc with Autumn Harvest

By Charlie Compost

Plant Legumes and Herbs

WITH temperatures plummeting to a minimum of 4 degrees in Brisbane, it’s clearly the end of spring and time to focus on winter crops.

Citrus Your citrus trees should be loaded with fruit now so remember to water regularly or your tree might drop its fruit if it feels inadequate. It is also time to watch the leaves and tender stems for signs of pests and disease.

Failure to act now will be costly later.

The worst case scenario is a swelling like this on a stem and bumps on the leaves. This is the dreaded citrus miner.

Cut the stem below the swelling before the hatchlings bore through entire sections

Mulch garden beds to keep in warmth and encourage earthworm activity

Snowpeas are a great choice for home-growing as they can be expensive in the shops and not always fresh. They require general soil enriched with manure or compost. They will also benefit from a little lime. Plant seeds about 10 cm apart. As they grow. They will need a little help to support themselves on a trellis or stake. They are susceptible to mould in Brisbane so avoid watering the foliage. Pick while tender.

Harvesting Now • Lemons • Calamondin and kumquats • Methi • Coriander Plant Now • Coriander • Methi • Peas • Radish • Beans (green and broad) • Cabbage • Cauliflower • Broccoli • Lettuce • Spinach

FREE Seeds - Call in at the Indian Delights stall at Kuraby Farmers Market to collect free organically grown seeds including rare varieties. Every Saturday 6am-12.30pm.

Broad Beans are quite easy to grow. Try them in a pot at least 30 cm high and 25 cm wide. Fill it with good potting mix and a couple of stakes for support. Plant up to 5 seeds then spray fortnightly with Seaweed soloution once they are at seedling stage.

Harvest regularly and pinch off tips to encourage more fruiting. Great to pick some when they are young and tender and eat the pod and all.

Spray white oil every couple of weeks as per the instructions. Continue well into Spring.

This will discourage borers from nesting on your citrus. Use a pyrethrum based aphid spray if you see large colonies sucking the sap off tender growing tips.

What to do with Citrus • Consider making lemon, lime and kumquat pickle.

• Make a large quantity of preserved lemon-great in Moroccon cooking.

• Use for making lemonade to fight winter colds.

Protect Frost Tender Plants

For more detailed information and instructive videos, log on to the website at www.worldvegetablegarden.blogspot.com.au

This is essential for chilli, some varieties of mango, tropical flowering and ornamental plants.

If you have any comments or questions, or photos of your veggie plants to share, please email them to aesat56@gmail.com

Astrology Aries - March 21 - April 20

Since you have, of late, adopted a positive approach to your life and work, you will begin to see the positive results this month, especially on the professional front, predicts Ganesha. Your rapport with your co-workers shall be good. Although around the middle of the month, the work pressure may test your patience, you will manage fine. Just stay calm, and don't succumb to anger and frustration. This month is not auspicious for starting new projects, so better put them off for later. Don't scatter your energies, as you are often wont to, but try to focus on the job in your hands. Also, avoid the tendency of being too selfimmersed, and pay heed to the opinions of others.

Take care of every little thing, and don't hesitate to ask for help, should you need it. Your monetary position shall be comfortable in the first half of the month, but towards the latter half, you may feel a slight pinch.

Taurus - April 21 - May 22

Your personal life looks set to dominate your affairs this month. Your domestic obligations may make things so hectic that you may end up neglecting, at least some of your professional responsibilities. Try to be self-reliant, and tackle all your troubles yourself. However, Ganesha warns you to keep your cool, as the mounting domestic problems may test your patience. There are chances that you may use harsh words, in turn hurting your near and dear ones. Truth is, eventually you shall regret saying anything wrong, so think before you speak. If you can adopt the policy of live and let live, especially with your spouse, you shall see how amazingly easy life will seem to be. Singles in love, who may be wondering about the most auspicious time to pop the question should take note that the best time would be around the middle of June. It's a good month for finances, but hard work still reigns supreme.

Gemini - May 23 - Jun 21 Thanks to the satisfactory recognition and rewards from your bosses, you are likely to feel pepped up and full of zing to perform even better in the month ahead, foresees Ganesha. You shall work with renewed zest towards achieving the common goals of your organisation. For sure you shall be spending more time at work, but be prepared to squeeze out some quality time for your family, especially during the second fortnight of the month. Also, there shall be pressing domestic matters to attend to, but since you are likely to be so full of energy, you will manage to handle both the fronts satisfactorily. However, even with your total focus on your work, personal or professional, the tedium may get on your nerves. So, Ganesha advises you to use your creativity and imagination, and do something that will relieve the monotony. It's a good time for relationships. Singles may find their life-partner this month, while those of you in a steady relationship may decide to make it official.

www.ganeshaspeaks.com Cancer - June 22 - July 22 The month kicks off with a sort of cold war at home, foretells Ganesha. Tensions may have been simmering beneath the surface for long now! Therefore, you consciously need to avoid arguments, and make sure that there is no communication gap, when it comes with open dialogue with your loved ones. Take special care to avoid any misunderstanding between you and your spouse/ sweetheart. All disputes need to be resolved with great maturity and compassion for each other's weaknesses. During this month, some people close to you may try to exploit your generosity. These shall be the same people who may be nowhere to be found, when you need their help! So, use your discrimination, while showering your wealth or goodness on anyone. On the professional front, you shall make some progress, but you may not be quite satisfied with it all. You may even start looking around for another job. Initially your efforts may be in vain, but in the later stages of the month you might just land a better job.

Leo - July 23 - August 22 Petty squabbles with your loved ones are likely to take a toll on you mentally, this month, predicts Ganesha. Expectations of others from you shall be so great that you may feel crushed beneath them. The best you can do is try to make your folks understand that though you have their best interests at heart, you have your limitations, and it may not always be possible for you to fulfill each and every wish and whim of theirs. Besides, Ganesha also advises you to look at the brighter side of the things – do not underestimate your own abilities, and do not reject anything out of hand. At least give anything at hand your best shot, and if you still fail, you shall have the satisfaction of having done your best. At work, of course, there shall be tough challenges, but your hard work, perseverance, patience and great communication skills shall help you surmount these hurdles. Avoid ego clashes, though.

Virgo - August 23 - October 22 You may look forward to a successful month, as far as your work is concerned. This would be true whether you are a professional or a businessman. Your superiors shall be satisfied with your performance, and may even entrust you with more important responsibilities. However, it is important to note that as your workload is only going to increase further, you shall have to learn to delegate your tasks. You will also be able to motivate and get your juniors to perform up to their full potential, promises Ganesha. Make sure, though, that no one runs away with the credit, which would be yours by right. Amidst all this, it is quite likely that you may end up compromising your family life, in order to meet all your work commitments. In this case you may have to take a call, at least, later on in the month about taking a break. Another aspect that may cause some concern this month would be the mounting expenses.

Avoid spending on anything for which you have not budgeted.

Libra - September 23 - October 22 If you have been looking for a job, this is a time to intensify your efforts, says Ganesha.

Stars are not against your endeavours, but it is not going to be easy finding a nice, lucrative job. Also remember, no matter how disgruntled you may be in your present job or how disharmonious your relations with your colleagues may be, just keep it to yourself and don't give it vent, unless it is with a very trusted friend outside office or your spouse. Especially, keep your distance from gossip of any kind. If you can adjust yourself to your circumstances, success will surely be yours this month, whether you are selfemployed or working for someone else. Back home, your loved ones shall hold you in high esteem and shall look up to you for guidance. And you, with their best interests at heart, shall take great interest in their progress. Financially, this is going to be a comfortable month. So, relax!

Scorpio - October 23 - November 21 You need to pull up your socks, marshal your resources, and spruce up your act, if you wish to impress your superiors, or succeed in your projects this month, foresees Ganesha. The one thing you need to guard against very carefully is being impulsive, because the attitude of your co-workers and superiors towards you may not be altogether encouraging. But, even if you are looking out for another job, though you can carry on with your search, this month is not exactly an auspicious month to make a switch.

So, hang on where you are until the planets turn in your favour. Even businessmen need to think twice before entering into new partnerships. A little later in the month, it may become imperative to resolve the niggling problems, as it will contribute greatly to your peace of mind. Often you may feel drained of energy, so conserve it, and use it only for productive purposes.

Sagittarius - November 22 - December 22

Ganesha foretells that you may look forward to an exciting month, especially on the work front, for you shall be entrusted with the kind of tasks that you really enjoy doing even if they may be really tough. You shall take them up as a challenge, and rest assured, with the dedication you invest in them, you are bound to emerge victorious. However, don't overexert yourself physically, and don't go anywhere near the hubs of office gossip. Certain domestic issues may cause great anxiety, and despite your best efforts you may not be able to resolve some things. Your equation with your spouse, and even with some close friends, may not be as pleasant as you would have liked, but certain things are not in your hands. The best thing under the circumstances would be to let go and move on with life. It's a passing phase and things shall be hunky-dory by the month-end.

Capricorn - December 23 - January 30 Work pressure continues, and in fact, escalates! You may even need to burn the midnight oil, in order to achieve the goals you may have set for yourself, says Ganesha. However, do keep track of your health and wellness goals, amidst all the flurry of work activity that may surround you completely. Or, you may end up dwindling all the efforts you have put in the last few months, towards the attainment of a robust composition. Take a break to recharge your sodden batteries! But if you can balance everything out properly, rest assured you shall taste success by the month-end. In all other spheres, your eloquence, wit and sense of humour shall help you win many hearts. Those of you who are married shall be more compassionate towards your partners. On the monetary front, this seems to be an auspicious month to invest your hard-earned cash into something solid, such as property. Travel is foreseen.

Aquarius - January 21 - February 19 Some important official meetings shall keep you on your toes this month, predicts Ganesha.

It would, of course, provide you the best forum to display all your skills and talents. Others shall be thoroughly impressed with your potential. However, by the end of the month, the rocketing work pressure is bound to get to you, adversely affecting you both physically and mentally. Being aware of the danger, you need to conserve your energies and take enough rest to keep yourself fresh and full of zest. You shall try to get your priorities straight in your domestic life, and even if your firmness may surprise some people, it will not affect you. If you are single, there is romance on the cards – you are likely to have a crush on a coworker. Ganesha advises you to consider any proposal coming your way seriously. You are likely to be a bit reckless with money this month.

Pisces - February 20 - March 20 The focus this month, predicts Ganesha, shall be on career and business matters. If you are a businessman, your products shall be much in demand and you could make a killing provided you make the right moves at the right time. Even professionals involved in creative pursuits are expected to do well. With the planets aligned in your favour, you shall steadily gain more and more self-confidence, and shall take up challenges from which you would previously have recoiled. You shall see everything working out positively for you in all spheres of life.

However, there is a word of caution: don't let people take you for granted or exploit you, as they have done on innumerable occasions before. Ganesha warns you to be specifically careful of people who pretend to be your well-wishers. Learn to discriminate between the genuine ones and the pretenders. Things on the romantic and financial fronts shall work out in your favour.

Disclaimer: This is only a guide and is not directed towards any particular individual and the writer shall not be responsible for anything to do with the articles content.

38 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013

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Real Estate News Market update....

16 MAY, 2013: The Federal Budget for 2013-14 was released earlier this week.

Specifically relating to housing there wasn’t much in the Budget however, a trial scheme was announced for aged pensioners looking to downsize their home. The scheme will begin operation in July 2014 and will allow pensioners that have owned their home for more than 25 years will have the opportunity to invest a surplus fund of up to $200,000 into an account. This fund will then earn interest and will be exempt from the age pension for up to 10 years. This will mean that pensioners who downsize their homes can put the proceeds of the sale into this fund and it will not count against their pension in relation to the asset and income test.

Housing finance data was released earlier this week (16 May) by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) for March 2013.

The data release showed the number of owner occupier finance commitments rose by 7.2% over the month for new loans compared to a 1.1% increase in refinance loans.

Year on year, new loan commitments have increased by 13.8% compared to a -7.2% fall in refinance commitments. The data supports the notion of increasing demand for home loans win new loan commitments having increased over 9 of the past 12 months.

The total value of housing finance commitments shows a recent surge in activity for loans for investment purposes. In March, the value of investment loans rose by 2.1% and year on year, the value of investment loans has increased by 21.3%. The 21.3% increase in the value of investment loans over the year is the largest increase since November 2007 (25.6%). The data clearly indicates a strong level of investor activity returning to the residential housing market.

Although owner occupier finance commitments are ramping up, the data suggests

that first time buyers are still taking little part in the market.

The number of first time buyer commitments rose by 11.4% however, year on year they are -16.4% lower. As a proportion of all owner occupier finance commitments over the month, first home buyers made up just 14.2% which was their lowest proportion since May 2004.

Last week there were 1,582 capital city auctions, up from 1,749 the previous week.

The combined capital city auction clearance rate was recorded at 65.6% last week, up from 67.7% over the previous week. rpdata collected results for almost 89% of all capital city auctions which took place last week. Auction clearance rates have now been above 60% for six consecutive weeks, the last time this occurred was in June 2010. In Melbourne, Australia’s largest auction market, the clearance rate was recorded at 71.3% last week which was up from 70.4% the previous week however, the number of auctions which took place fell to 807 from 822 the previous week. In Sydney, the auction clearance rate fell to 67.7% last week from 72.7% over the previous week. Auction volumes across the city fell from 585 the previous week to 516 last week. Auction activity is set to fall this week, with our figures indicating that there will be 1,398 capital city auctions this week.

The number of new listings being added to the market fell by -2.0% over last week.

43,312 new listings were added to the market nationally, with 26,397 of these located in a capital city.

Although the number of new listings fell over the week, there was a rise in total listings. There were 286,376 homes advertised for sale over the past four weeks. Across the combined capital cities, there were 128,859 homes available for sale, 45% of the total stock available for sale.

New listings nationally are now -7.4% lower than they were a year ago and total

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Real Estate News Right advice is essential CONVEYANCING is the legal transfer of a property’s title from the seller to the buyer.

It is important that buyers research who they wish to use for conveyancing when they have a Contract of Sale on a property.

The REIQ recommends the use of a qualified solicitor to undertake the conveyancing process.

Using a solicitor is important as they understand the laws and procedures involved with facilitating a property transfer including, payment of stamp duty, conducting searches and attending to mortgage related matters.

Using a solicitor who understands the process provides peace of mind when making what may be the largest single financial transaction of your life.

Costs associated with conveyancing include title searches, transfer duty, registration fees and solicitor’s professional fees.

Searches undertaken as part of the conveyancing process will usually include zoning, rates and outgoings and body corporates record searches where the property is a unit.

Local government searches have become important in the conveyancing process to determine how an area will develop in the years to come. They ensure major changes like new freeways and major road upgrades are not planned for the backyard of the property you are purchasing.

Searches for zoning and titles can also determine whether the property has any restrictions such as adverse planning,

demolition orders, outstanding taxes or encumbrances on the title (for example, easements or caveats).

Most of these searches are standard in the conveyancing process but are often overlooked when buyers elect to do the conveyancing themselves.

It is important to understand the different roles that real estate agents and solicitors play in a residential real estate transaction.

A real estate agent, as the agent of the seller not the buyer, is responsible for obtaining the best possible price and contractual terms for the seller. The agent will receive a commission from the seller when the property is sold.

A solicitor will advise on the fairness of the proposed contract and whether or not to sign the contract as it stands. A solicitor may also suggest the inclusion of special conditions in the contract.

The REIQ always recommends that buyers contact the Queensland Law Society for details of qualified solicitors to conduct the conveyancing for their property purchase.

By REIQ chairman Pamela Bennett

Strong yields attracting investors MORE than 150 postcodes across Queensland have recorded gross rental yields of 5 per cent or more, according to the latest Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) data.

The REIQ December quarter gross rental yield report, released 17 April 2013, found that yields were particularly firm in mining regions as well as areas which offered affordable housing.

Our property market has turned a corner over the past six months, and these robust yields reflect that sales prices had yet to fully rebound in the December quarter last year but rents had definitely increased.

This year, there continues to be strong demand for rental properties from tenants which in turn is driving activity from investors.

REIQ analysis of Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) housing finance data found that the number of investors in the Queensland property market in February had increased more than 10 per cent compared to January this year.

The top three performers for gross rental yields for houses by postcode were Miles at 9.3 per cent, Russell and Macleay islands with 9 per cent, and Mount Morgan on 8.7 per cent.

At number one, Miles is located in the Western Downs region and is set amongst the rapidly expanding Surat Basin Energy Province. Its location means that the region has experienced significant property price growth and increased rents over the past few years.

At number two was the Brisbane bay islands of Russell and Macleay which boast plenty of affordable houses as well as a healthy rental market.

Number three was Mount Morgan, in the Rockhampton local government area, which regularly features on top yield reports due to its affordable property prices.

When it comes to units and townhouses, the top areas generally have affordable

buy-in prices to underpin their yield performances.

Two postcodes tied for the number one position. The postcode that includes Holloways Beach and Yorkeys Knob in Cairns recorded a gross rental yield of 8.2 per cent. This result can partly be attributed to the period of subdued unit prices following Cyclone Yasi in 2011.

Equal number one was Chinchilla, which is another location within the Western Downs region. Similar to Miles, Chinchilla has experienced strong sales demand as well as rental growth over recent years due to the booming resources sector.

In the number two and three spots were both postcodes within the Logan City region of Greater Brisbane. Woodridge posted a gross rental yield of 7.8 per cent, while Slacks Creek recorded a yield of 7.7 per cent. Both of these postcodes have affordable property prices but are home to a large rental population.

The top performing postcode for Brisbane was again Brisbane/Spring Hill with a yield of 6.4 per cent due to the strong concentration of renters in this inner-city region.

The REIQ gross rental yields use weighted median rents and sale prices to derive yields, which is the annual income earned from a tenanted property divided by the purchase price.

They are referred to as gross yields as they do not take into account costs associated with the original purchase or the ongoing costs of owning an investment property such as mortgage repayments.

Our gross rental yields are also classed as short-term yields as they reflect current pricings.

However, if you hold your investment property over the long-term – which of course is always advisable – then the yield improves given rental income has increased but your original purchase price had stayed the same.

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What’s on....Associations / Places of Worship...

AUM - Arya Pratinidhai Sabha of Qld Inc. Vedic Yaj (Havan) Venue: Finnish Hall, 62 Newhnam Rd, Mt Gravatt, Date 9 & 23 June 10am – 11:30 am. Venue: 17 Somerset Dr, Carseldine - June 16 10am - 11.30am. Tune to Radio Brisvaani on Sundays 7-7.30am for Vedic Sandesh Program. Read about Vedas in this paper. Contact: Jitendra Deo 3263 1914 or Hari Chand 3345 4716 or log on to www.aryasamajqueensland.com for further information.

BRISBANE BELIEVERS FELLOWSHIP - “Expect Great things from the Lord and Attempt Great things for the Lord”. Address: Zillmere Community Hall, 54 Handsford Rd, Zillmere. Worship time: Every Sunday at 9.30 AM. Activities: Holy Communion (First Sunday of the Month), Sunday school, Fasting Prayer, Youth Meeting, Bible Study and Ladies Meeting. Contact: Pastor John Thomas & Mary Thomas, Sanju P. (Secretary) Phone: 0402 551 220 / 0402 907 776 or 0422 815 782 / Email: maryhoney59@hotmail.com Brisbane Christian Assembly, Herston, QLD. - Expect a miracle from God, Come and pray for any need in your life, with us in Herston (near RCH Hospital) every Saturday from 6:00pm to 9:00pm. We are praying and God has been doing miracles in many people’s life. Contact Pastor Prakash Jacob 07 3162 5207 or 0413 347 562. Brisbane Christian Assembly Address: 5/15 Aberleigh Road, Herston QLD 4006 Pastor: Prakash Jacob. Events: Prayer, Fellowship, Worship, Adult Bible Study, Kids Bible Study, Love in Action, and much more.. Saturday Schedules: 6:00pm-7:00pm: Kids Bible Study, 7:00pm09:00pm: Intercessory Prayer Sunday Schedules: 10:00am-01:00pm: Worship in Truth & Spirit, Bible Study, Prayer, etc.

Email: prakashjacob@yahoo.com / Ph: 07-31625207, 0413347562 Brisbane Malayalee Association - Brisbane Malayalee Association (BMA) represents the Malayalee community in and around the city of Brisbane to preserve and maintain the Kerala culture and heritage. BMA is a nonprofit, non-political, non-religious cultural organisation that has a constitution and bylaws. BMA provides a forum for the Malayalees residing in Brisbane and neighbouring areas to meet and exchange views and to foster their friendship, goodwill, moral, social, educational, literary, artistic and cultural heritage. For more information contact Secretary Rajni Nair on 0431 299 376 or President Gigie George on 0432 510 045 brisbane.malayaleeassociation@gmail.com / www.brisbanemalayalee.org Brisbane Multinational Church - 757 Gympie Road Lawnton. Church service time

is from 9.30am to 11.30am. Special times of prayer for the sick. We will be praying for people with all kinds of sicknesses, needs, spiritual problems etc. This will be followed by free lunch, service time 9.30am -12 noon.For more information please contact Pastor Joseph Dass on 0424 180 240 or Assistant Pastor Shrish Chand on 0450 612 304.

Brisbane Sikh Temple (Gurdwara) - 2679 Logan Rd, Eight Mile Plains. www.brisbanesikhtemple.org.au. Brisbane Sikh Temple is open 7days a week, free food (langar is served daily) Sunday Service is from 9am to 1pm. Weekdays evening service is from 6pm to 7pm including meditation. Mr Baljit Singh Secretary of Brisbane Sikh Temple (for all bookings enquiries) Ph: 0412 057 554, Email: secretary@brisbanesikhtemple.org.au.

Gianni Kuldeep Singh Priest of Brisbane Sikh Temple (for all religious functions) Ph: 0422 705 936.

Email: priest@brisbanesikhtemple.org.au Burnie Brae, a Senior Citizen’s Centre in Chermside, are pleased to advise the start of a special social programme for Indian Senior Citizens. We meet on the 1st and 3rd Monday of every month. It is an opportunity to socialise, participate in a variety of activities and enjoy some delicious vegetarian meals.

Transport maybe provided to and from the Day Social Club if you live near the Centre. If you have any queries please contact Sandra or Naomi on 07 36242141 Eben-Ezer Pentecostal Church, Brisbane – Sunday School, Prayer & Fasting, Youth meeting & worship (Malayalam) Contact: Pastor Mathew Tharian 07 3165 7617, 0431 413 482 or Eng. Victor George 07 3359 8946, 0413 069 477.

Ekta Women’s Group, which is an integral part of Indian Senior Citizens Association, holds its meetings last Sunday of every month from 2-4pm. For further information contact President - Mrs Kushla Sahai 3344 4715, Vice President - Mrs Kusum Prasad 3209 5174, Secretary - Mrs Sarita Chand 3343 4343, Treasurer - Ms Roshni Sharma 3711 4201 and Cultural Director Mrs Meena Prasad 3711 6594.

Fiji Senior Citizens’ Satsang Association of Qld Inc -1 Kensington Place, Wishart 4122.

Monthly meetings will be held on th last Sunday of the month at 2pm. All members are invited to attend. For further information contact President Surendra Prasad OAM 3849 5435, Secretary Raymond Saran 3290 0653 or Treasurer Surya Narayan 3208 5823 Forest Lake AOG Church - Hindi Service Second Sunday of every month - commencing @ 4.30pm. Cnr of Alpine Place & Forest Lake Boulevard Road. Contact Sudesh on

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Hindi Speaking Christian Fellowship Meets at 2.30 p.m. last Sunday of each month at Merthyr Uniting Church, 52 Merthyr Rd, New Farm. All welcome. Contact Irene 3715 8659.

Hindu Mandir Association of Queensland Shree Laxmi Narayan Mandir - NEW ADDRESS - 46 Daymar Street, Burbank Qld. Every Sunday 4pm to 6pm - Bhajan/Kirtan, Pravachan by Pt Tripathi Ji, Arati and Dinner is provided. Every 1st Sunday of month from 2-4pm - Program by Brisbane Bhajan Group.

All welcome.

Website: www.laxminarayan.com.au For further information contact: Resident Priest 07 3216 8848, Rakesh Sharma 0411 289 202 Hindu Society of Queensland Inc. - Gayatri Mandir (178 Lyndhurst Rd, Boondall).

Gayatri Mandir opens every Sunday from 8am to 11am. Mandir opens with Punditji.

Weekly Programs & Mandir Openings: • Every Tuesday from 7pm - Ramayan & Bhajan recitals • Every 2nd & 4th Friday from 7.00pm – Ramayan & Bhajan Recitals. • Open Every Sunday from 9.00am – 12.00pm For further information contact President Prakash Shandil 0408 876 414 Indian Church Service News - Every Sunday 9.30am - 11.00am. Southern Springs Community Church 59 Marshall Road, Rocklea. Meet with Indian Christians for prayer, praise & worship. Fellowship & refreshments after the service. contact Ps. Sivanus Naidu (Senior Pastor) 3274 2542 or 0417 197 747 Indian Senior Citizen Association - The Committee meetings are held 2nd Sunday of every alternate month from 2pm to 4pm or more often as the situations arise. For further information contact, President: Mr Bir Sahai 3344 4715 / 0411739045, Vice Presidents: Mr Ram Sumer 3349 7238, Mr NK Sharma 3711 4201, Secretary: Mrs Shakuntla Mohan 3209 3235, Treasurer: Mr Hari Prasad 32095174, Publicity Officer: Mrs Prabha Mishra 3901 1120.

International Congress of Fiji - for more information contact Sarat Maharaj 3263 2093 or 0407 111 709 or visit www.icfi.org.au International Multicultural Christian Fellowship - Elevate Church (AOG Church) Vision - Each One Reach One. Worship & Word every Sunday at 9.30am to 11.30am followed by free sausage sizzle - everyone welcome. Home prayer meeting every Wednesday at 7.00pm to 8pm. Fasting and prayer Thursday from 7.00pm to 8.00pm for special needs. Youth group - every Friday 6.30pm to 8.30pm at 3, Montserrat Pl, Forest Lake. Kids church - special kids church every Sunday. Music and food - once a month at the

PUBLIC NOTICE HINDU SOCIETY OF QLD INC ABN 62 515 008 806 P O BOX 73, TAIGUM QLD 4018 Website: www.hindusocietyqld.org.au

OFFICE BEARERS: President: Prakash Shandil Secretary: Sunil Maharaj Treasurer : Jitendra Lal

GAYATRI MANDIR 178 Lyndhurst Road BOONDALL Qld 4034 Phone: 3865 3164 Fax : 3886 1210

Phone: 0408876414 Phone: 0488324891 Phone: 0409737753

OM SHREE GANESHAYE NAMAH

Notice of 22nd Annual General Meeting and Elections of Management Committee Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of the Hindu Society of Queensland will be held at the Gayatri Mandir, 178 Lyndhurst Street, Boondall, Qld 4034 on Sunday 21st July 2013 at 10.00am. All Members are requested to attend.

Nominations for the 12 positions on the Management committee are called for and must be compliant as stated below: 1. The nominations must be submitted on the approved Hindu Society of Qld nomination forms.

2. The person being Nominated, the Proposer and the Seconder must be a current financial member of the Hindu Society of Qld Inc. as at 5.00pm on Friday 12th July 2013.

3. When being Nominated for any positions on the Committee, Nominees should be aware of the rules and regulations of the Society. Whilst being on the Committee is honorary, it does carry stringent responsibilities.

4. In the event of an election being conducted, only members whose subscriptions are paid for the 2012/2013 financial year prior to elections will be eligible to vote at the AGM. 5. All Nominations should be addressed to The Secretary, Hindu Society of Qld Inc., P O Box 73, Taigum, Qld 4018 and should reach the postal box no later than 12 July, 2013 by close of business (5pm). Please note that Strictly No nominations shall be received in person and for your records it is recommended that nominations be sent by registered mail.

6. Failure to comply with above terms and conditions will make nominations invalid.

7. The constitution of the society as lodged with Office of Fair Trading on 21 May 1992 with subsequent resolutions Lodged after this date shall prevail at all times.

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The Secretary Sunil Maharaj - 0488 324 891 Hindu Society Of Qld Inc. Your Society – Working for its people

www.indiantimes.com.au

Forest lake stage 5pm onwards. Womens group - every Thursday 11.00am pls contact Ps. Mavis on 0418745179. Church Address Elevate Church, Grand Avenue Primary School, Forest Lake 4078, Corner of Grand Avenue and Centennial Way, Contact Pastor Raj Singh with any questions about church on: Mobile 0407177117 or Email rajmavisforjesus@yahoo.com.au / www.elevatechurch.org.au Islamic Society of Gold Coast - Cnr Allied Drive & Olsen Avenue, Arundel. For more information visit www.goldcoastislam.com.au Islamic Society of Queensland hosts Zikre Mustapha programme Program starts from Maghrib to Isha Prayers. 2nd Saturday of the month at Rochedale Mosque - 2664 Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains. Dinner provided to all after Isha Namaz. For enquiries contact Imam Ali on 0407 156 527, Asif Ali Khan on 0411 516 007 or Shamim Khan on 0403 541 012.

Kannada Sangha Qld Inc - Promoting Kannada culture, Kannada activities and community based events and functions. For more information contact: President Dr Balaji Hiremagalur 0421 583 273 Secretary Navin Kumar 0413 164 401, email: kannadasanghaqld@gmail.com www.chandana-brisbane.org. 52 Parkway Crescent Murrumba Downs Qld 4503.

Lourde Matha Malayalee Community Every month Malayalam Mass (Qrbana) in Brisbane. An opportunity to meet with other malyalees for Mass, prayer and spiritual renewal. For more information about upcoming events. Contact Fr. Thomas Areekuzhy 4697 3177 youth coordinator. Siju Mathew 0432 192 558.

Malayalee Association of Qld – For a detailed list of upcoming events, contact the President C K Oonnikrishnan Nair on 0416 927 100 or email ckuknair_maq@hotmail.com, Dr Cyril Fernandez - Vice President on 0404 433 044 or email cgfernz@hotmail.com.

E: maq@brisbanemalayalee.org or visit www.brisbanemalayalee.org.

Melmaruvathur Aadhiparasakthi Brisbane Mandram - For more information contact Sakthi Para 0438 778 483, Sakthi Jayanthan 0402 907 064 or Sakthi Kalyanasundaram 0411 165 067 Nexus Church - 151 Flockton Street, Everton Park Qld. For more information please call 07 3353 1377 or visit www.nexuschurch.com.au Public Zikre Mustapha programme Program starts from Maghrib to Isha Prayers.

Last Saturday of the month at Logan Mosque - 260 3rd Avenue, Kingston. Dinner provided free to all after Isha Namaz. For enquiries contact the chairman Mr Nawab Khan on 3209 4627 Queensland Fiji Football Association QFFA - For more information visit facebook: QueenslandFijiFa or visit www.qffa.com.au Queensland Telugu Association - President – Dr Prakash Nallamilli; Treasurer – Mr Manoj Vemula; Secretary – Mr Sai Gollapudi; Executive Committee Members – Mr Srikanth Chalasani, Mr Sudershan Kanthakadi. For a list of upcoming events and membership information, please contact: Secretary, Mr Sai Gollapudi on 0409 907 934 or email saigollapudi@yahoo.com Sant Mat (Sant Baljit Singh) - Sant Mat is a practical path based on meditation on the inner Light and Sound, ethical values, service to others and love for all creation. Its goal is to enable the soul to return and merge into its source; the purpose of human life described by mystics of all traditions. Focus and sincerity are essential, as is the help of the living spiritual Master. Sant Baljit Singh, the living spiritual Master, teaches the meditation on the inner Light and Sound to anyone who is searching for a deeper meaning in life. We have representatives ready to talk to you. No charge at any stage. For further information contact 1800 462 193 or visit www.santmat.net.au Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir - 86 Scotts Lane, North Maclean, Qld 4280. Our Dharam Guru Param Pujya Pundit Tripathi Ji resides at Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir. Daily opening Hours: 7-11am / 5-8pm. Every Sunday: 4 to 6pm. Bhajans / Kirtan, prawachan, Prasadam and Maha Prasadam. For more information contact 0481 238 360 Sri Selva Vinayakar Koyil (Ganesha Temple) and Hindu Education Centre 4915 – 4923 Mt Lindsay H’way South Maclean. Temple Opening Hours: 7:30am – 11:00am and 5:00pm – 8:30pm. Pooja times – Weekdays 9:00am and 7:30pm. Weekends 9:00am and 6:00pm. Contact President Vimal “Vic” Ratnam 0411 594 394, Temple Priest 07 5547 7302. For full list of upcoming events please visit www.sriselvavinayakar.org Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

What’s on....Associations / Places of Worship...

St. Thomas Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church Brisbane Malayalam Holy Qurbono, Sunday School and other spiritual activities.

Holy Qurbono celebrated by Rev. Fr. Jigi Varghese at 2pm on the third Saturday of every month at St Mary’s & Joseph’s Coptic Orthodox Church, 2 Hamish Street Calamvale Qld 4116.

For more information about upcoming events and activities please contact: Dr. Joy Pynadath 0431 631 397, Joy Mathew 0403 114 470, Roby John 0401 900 494 The Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Association - Gold Coast Bhajan - monthly Bhajans held every third Friday of the month starting at 7.15am at the Helensvale Community Centre - 31 Discovery Rd,

WHATÊS ON!

BURTONS CIRCUS showing at Browns Plains - Waller Park, Waller Road 31st May - 16th June – Tickets are available at the Circus from 1hr before and up to show time. To view show times / book tickets visit www.burtonscircus.com or call 0435 996 386.

The Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Association - Gold Coast Bhajan - monthly Bhajans held every third Friday of the month starting at 7.15am at the Helensvale Community Centre - 31 Discovery Rd, Helensvale. Activities include Bhajan recitals, short educational presentations and free vegetarian dinner. All are cordially invited to attend. For further information please contact Director/Religious Activities, Mr S Barataraj on 0417 588 839 or gchcan@gmail.com or visit www.goldcoasthindu.org 2013 Right Royal Affair - Saturday 8 June – RBWH Foundation invites you to experience Incredible India at the charity gala of the year to advance life-saving medical research and patient care at Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital. Venue: Plaza Ballroom, Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre Time: 7pm - Midnight.

For more information or to book please visit www.rightroyalaffair.com.au or call Ari on 07 3646 1302.

Queensland Multicultural Council Inc Qld Week Celebration Dinner by multicultural communities - 8 June - 6pm for 6.30-9pm at RSL Club, Sunnybank - 19 Gager Street, Sunnybank. Multicultural performances, Indian Cuisine, Drinks and keynote speakers. *$25 per person.

Purchase tickets online at www.qldweekdinner.eventbrite.com (*Credit Card surcharge may apply for online bookings). Sponsorship opportunities available - For more information contact Janeth Deen 0435 086 796 / Fenti Forsyth 0409 632 492 / Anthony Lin 0412 745 999 or Dr Nava 0400 820 013 Melmaruvathur Aadhiparasakthi Vazipaattu Mandram - Brisbane - Bajan 9 June: 5-7pm at 1 Lalina Street, (Cnr of River Hills Road & Lalina Street) Middle Park. For more details contact Sakthi Para 0438 778 483, Sakthi Jayanthan 0402 907 064 Bala Samskar Kendra - Annual Children’s Camp - Sunday 9 June – 8.45am to 5pm at Holland Park State High School, Bapaume Road, Holland Park Qld 4121. For ages 4-15, $25 per child, $15 for sibling. Children will learn: about Hanumanji, about Swami Vivekananda, spoken Sanskrit, Yoga, Shlokas, traditional Indian games and much more. To register email your child/children’s details to bskqld@live.com by 2 June. For more details contact Ranjani 0422 431 397, Krrishna 0411 776 509, Mohan 0400 775 924 or Poornima 0466 932 607.

Rotary Club of Archerfield’s Annual Fund Raising Dinner and Auction - 14 June - 6.30pm for 7pm start at Gambaro’s Seafood Restaurant, 33 Caxton St, Petrie Tce. Smart Casual. RSVP 13 May 2013 Ray Deen (Coordinator) 0418 738 432 / 07 3879 9492. To book email rcarcherfield@rotary9630.org or call Mark Ledwidge 07 3277 2687 Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir - Sankat Mochan Shree Hanuman Ji ka Maha Abhishekam by Dharam Guru Pt. Tripathi Ji - 15 June - 10am - 1pm at 86 Scott Lane, North Maclean. Everyone please come and get a chance to perform Hawan and put Geru on Shree Hanuman Ji. Hawan, Hanuman Chalisa, Bhajans and Kirtans. Roth, Halwa Poori and Maha Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Helensvale. Activities include Bhajan recitals, short educational presentations and free vegetarian dinner. All are cordially invited to attend. For further information please contact Director/Religious Activities, Mr S Barataraj on 0417 588 839 or gchcan@gmail.com or visit www.goldcoasthindu.org. The next bhajan is on Friday 17 May. TOUCH Group of families Program includes Bollywood dance, Sri Lankan dance, Saomoa cultural dance, fashion show, musical program. Anyone who would like to join can contact touch.families@gmail.com or call Sripathy & family 0432 768 607, Vijekumar & family 3823 4628, Saravanan & family 3823 5037, Shanker & family 3711 3912, Sri

JUNE 13 / JULY 13 Prasadam (Lunch) will be provided. For food sponsors etc please call Dhiru 0406 213 153 or Bharat 0411 131 485. For secured online donations facility please visit www.vishnumayamandir.com.au Creativity of Meenas – On now until 15th June - FREE admission: Gallery Artisan is located at 381 Brunswich Street, Fortitude Valley - Gallery open from TuesFri 11am-6pm, Sat 11am-5pm. Closed SunMon. To learn more about Meena art and the Creativity of Meenas exhibition, visit www.creativityofmeenas.org The Mystique of Benarasi Silk - Kay Collections Saree Exhibition - 21-23 June - 10am-7pm at The Jindalee Hotel (opp DFO) Cnr Sinnamon & Goggs Roads, Jindalee Qld 4074. FREE EVENT - Open to Public - Following the succesful exhibition in Sydney recently, Delhi based designer, Kushma Ram, of Kay Collections now brings this unique exhibition of Benarasi silk sarees to Qld. A small sample of the Kay Collections portfolio can be seen online at www.kaycollections.com Islamic Association of Logan presents Islamic Trivia Fundraising Dinner - 28 June - 6-10pm at Islamic College of Brisbane - 45 Acacia Road, Karawatha, Qld 4117. Fundraiser for - Making Syria selfsufficient one village at a time. Our children are living in a war zone, don’t ignore their cry for HELP. Trivia night (Islamic quizzes) guest speakers, auctions, art & crafts auction, prizes, fun and entertainment. Buy tickets at Logan Mosque or contact 0450 911 142 - 0406 914 631 - 0404 488 481. Find us on facebook www.facebook.com/ freesyriaaustralia The Mystique of Benarasi Silk - Kay Collections Saree Exhibition - 28-30 June - 10am-7pm at Brisbane International Virginia, Cnr Zillmere & Sandgate Roads, Boondall Qld 4034. FREE EVENT - Open to Public - Following the successful exhibition in Sydney recently, Delhi based designer, Kushma Ram, of Kay Collections now brings this unique exhibition of Benarasi silk sarees to Qld. A small sample of the Kay Collections portfolio can be seen online at www.kaycollections.com Varnam Cultural Society (Qld) Inc presents ‘FREE family movie matinee Inimae Nangathan (Tamil Animation Movie) & Migu AVM’ - Saturday 29 June - 3pm at Butterbox Theatre, Kingston Butter Factory, Milky Way, Kingston. Free popcorn served, also feel free to bring your own snacks to share.

Please RSVP by Friday 7 June by sending an email to varnamqld@gmail.com or call Ayyapann 0418 909 825, Bala 0450 927 578, Prabu 0401 302 761 or Rajarajan 0431 433 889.

BURTONS CIRCUS showing at Mitchelton Park Football Ground, Cnr Samford Rd & Prospect Rds, Mitchelton - 21st June - 14th July – Tickets are available at the Circus from 1hr before and up to show time. To view show times / book tickets visit www.burtonscircus.com or call 0435 996 386.

Sri Selva Vinayakar Koyil (Ganesha Temple) Brisbane (South Maclean) – For full list of upcoming events please visit www.sriselvavinayakar.org GOPIO QLD Presents India Day Fair 11 August – 10.30 till Dusk at Roma Street Parklands Amphitheatre. Parades, Live Performances, Cultural Items, Food, Stalls.

GYAAN – honouring Qld’s Young Achievers. FREE event – For more information or to become a sponsor contact: Parades: Vinita 0403 813 693, President

Brisbane Indian Times proudly serving the Multicultural Community since 2003 - proudly sponsors What’s On section!

Jayendrakumr 3272 5781 Vaishnav Sangh of Qld. For more information email tvsoqld@hotmail.com or visit www.facebook.com/groups/tvsoq Varnam Cultural Society (Qld) Inc. For more information call Rajarajan 0431 433 889 / Ayyapann 0418 909 825 or email varnamqld@gmail.com What’s on is your Council guide to what is happening in Brisbane. www.brisbane.qld.gov.au> Women of Light Our purpose … is to equip women for Life, by providing opportunities for personal growth, believing that every women is valued as a role model to her family, her work, her church and her community.

The purpose of our Women of Light is to meet the spiritual, physical, and emotional needs of women within our community.

To develop and strengthen intimate friendships with other women, and to provide opportunities to serve and reach our community and provide encouragement to women.

We do whatever we can to reach out to women in our community. We prepare and take meals to those who are dealing with illness or loss. Vision – Each one reach one. We meet Every alternate Thursday at 11.00am at 3, Montserrat Place, Forest Lake and Buckby St, Nundah. Contact – Mavis, 0418 745 179, 07 3879 973

Shyam 0412 031 301 – Stalls: Vikas 0420 851 340, Sponsors: Usha 0419 775 416, Volunteers: Amy 0422 524 728, Performers: Umesh 0421 388 465 or Yousuf 0401 006 430, Robin 0416 150 911.

Fiji Senior Citizens Association Qld celebrating their 10th Anniversary Celebration - 31 August - at Macgregor State School, Sunnybank commencing 5.30pm. Supported by Multicultural group in Brisbane. All welcome, come and enjoy different communities cultural show and also Veg & Non Veg dinner is provided.

Ticket $10 per person, children under 12 free. For further information contact Surendra Prasad 0413 004 100, Secretary Raymond Saran 3290 0653 and Treasurer Rajendra Pratap 0411 339 067 Eswaralaya Kalaikoodam Celebrates their 10th Year Anniversary - 31 August - An evening of Bharatha Natyam and Dance Drama. Indian Classical Dance Dhasa Manoharam. Time 6pm - Tickets $10 each, to be pre-purchased. For more information please contact Manga 0433 967 489, Thilaga 3823 4628 or Jumuna on 3273 3098.

Gayatri Pariwar (Brisbane, Australia) presents for the first time in Brisbane ASHWAMEDH GAYATRI MAHA YAGNA - Prayer for World Peace and Harmony - 18, 19 & 20 April 2014 - in the presence of Shraddeya Dr Pranav Pandya and Shraddeya Shailbala Pandya, Head AWGP. 8.45am to 7pm at Mt. Gravatt Showgrounds, 1644 Logan Road, Mt Gravatt. Program includes cultural items, exhibition, interactive thought provoking seminars, yoga and meditation, 201 Kund Yagna. To participate in the 201 Kund Yagna or for further information contact Tirat Achal 0407 620 663 / Ashok Kumar 0411 698 972 / Salik Ram Sharma 3271 5407 or email brisaneaswamedh2014@gmail.com Brisbane Super Kings Cricket Club Inc Every Sunday – Currently we have a few more spots available. To join the club or for further information please contact Sathish 0433 922 733, Bala 0450 927 578 or Rajarajan 0431 433 889. Visit www.brisbanesuperkings.com or email sathish@brisbanesuperkings.com

Seminars - Public Talks / Courses / Retreats........

Markets........

Every Sunday – Brisbane Community Market – The Brisbane Community Market is an initiative of Acacia Ridge and District Community Centre. This ‘Profit for Purpose’ project is a response to the defunding of programs that were providing education, training and employment pathways for members of the local community.

The success of the market will enable the centre to continue to offer valuable programs to the community. The market will be on every Sunday from 7.30am-1pm at Moorooka State School, Beaudesert Road Moorooka. Food, fruit and veg, gifts, activities for gifts plus more great stalls.

Stalls are still available, please phone 0401 027 402 for more information.

Shows / Concerts........

The Bollywood Fashion Show - supporting Save the Children Aust. Charity Saturday 15 June – 6.30pm at Runcorn Tavern Function Room, Gowen Rd, Runcorn Brisbane. Tickets: General $25, VIP $40, children under 7 free. After 9.30pm Dance party till 12! Tickets are available online www.thebollywoodfashionshow.com.au or at Desi Runway. For more information or to become a sponsor contact Shafina 0432 630 370 - Fred 0417 472 962 - email info@thebollywoodfashionshow.com.au

www.indiantimes.com.au

Multicultural Community Centre - JOB preparation training - 1 Week at NO COST - 11-14 June & 17-21 June 2013 Monday to Friday, 9.30am-2.30pm at 14 Proe Street, Newstead Qld 4006. * How to create a professional resume * The best ways to apply for jobs * Interview preparation techniques * writing cover letters etc Eligibility Criteria: * Must be Australian Permanent Resident or Citizen * Must be unemployed * Must be competent in English. For more information contact: MCC 07 3257 1868 (option 1) for more details or email your enquiry to karuna@mccbrisbane.org / leo@mccbrisbane.org Hurry up! Before the training wraps up. Limited seats available.

Al-Mustapha Institute of Brisbane - Ilme-Deen Courses, part-time available. For more information visit www.almustaphainstitute.org Brahma Kumaris, Gold Coast - Offers Free meditation courses, Free positive awareness courses and Free afternoon retreats. 27 Bordeaux Parade, Mermaid Waters. Bookings essential 07 5575 2126 or email goldcoast@au.bkwsu.org Brisbane Tamil School Holland Park State School, Bapume Road, Holland Park.

For more information on the School please contact President B. Saravanan – saranb@bigpond.com or visit www.brisbanetamilschool.org Chinmaya Mission Australia – Family programs every Sunday morning at Holland Park State High School from 10am-11.45am. Balahivar classes for children and teenagers and gita classes for adults are conducted under the guidance of spiritual teacher, Bramachari Gopal Chaitanya. Please visit www.chinmaya.com.au or email brisbane.info@chinmaya.com.au Hindustani Language School conducts lessons in Hindustani language and Indian Culture every Saturday from 2pm to 4pm, at both its major centres at Calamvale Community Intermediate College, 11 Hamish Street, Calamvale and Boondall State School, Roscommon Rd, Boondall.

Hindi is our mother tongue. Students of all ages wishing to learn: * Hindi Language *Indian Culture * Dance & Drama * Music * Leadership and Personal Development Contact: Secretary Jay Haripersad on 3243 7062 - Vice President Mul Chand on Mobile 0418 461 960 - or President Sarat Maharaj on 3263 2093 or Mobile 0407 111 709Lotus Ashram - Free yoga lessons every Friday at Sunnybank Primary School, Glendower Street, from 7.00 pm to 8.30 pm. Donations are welcome. For details, email ambashram@gmail.com Migration Seminar - FREE - Every Thursday - 4pm at NO BORDERS Migration Advocates, Level 4/20 Park Road, Milton Qld 4064 - 5 mins from City - 50mtrs from Milton Station. Do you qualify for a work visa or a permanent residence in Australia? Bring your CV, your qualifications and find out if you qualify and what’s the best option in your case. For registration Call 07 3876 4000...limited seats Thaai Tamil School – Tamil Classes – Conducted weekly at 2 locations – 1.

Sunnybank State High School, Cnr Boorman & Turton Streets, Sunnybank.

Saturday 2.30pm-5.30pm. 2. Centenary State High School, 1 Moolanda Street, Jindalee. Sunday 2.30pm-5.30pm. Contact 0423 730 122, thaaitamilschool@gmail.com or visit www.thaaitamilschool.com

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013 — 45

||Aum Bhur Bhuvah Swaha Tat Savitur Varenyam Bhargo Devasya Dhimahi Dhiyo Yo Nah Prachodayat|| Gayatri Pariwar (Brisbane, Australia) presents for the first time in Brisbane

Ashwamedh Gayatri Maha Yagna prayer for world peace and harmony (under the aegis of Shantikunj, Haridwar)

in the presence of Shraddeya Dr. Pranav Pandya and Shraddeya Shailbala Pandya, Head AWGP Dates Friday April 18, 2014 Saturday April 19, 2014 Sunday April 20, 2014

Time 8.45am to 7.00pm

Venue Mt. Gravatt Showgrounds 1644 Logan Road, Mt. Gravatt

Program includes Cultural items Exhibition Interactive though provoking seminars Yoga and meditation 201 Kund Yagna

To participate in the 201 Kund Yagna or for further information contact Tirat Achal 0407 620 663 Ashok Kumar 0411 698 972 Salik Ram Sharma 3271 5407 Daya Sharma 0414 468 730

Pankaj Upadhyay 0466 643 544 Dipak Pathak 0413 612 746 Bramha Deo 0414 183 834 Hitesh Kumar 0412 102 785

Vijay Kumar Umesh Chandra Rajan Kiri Maya Ram Achal

0433 340 883 0421 388 465 0422 671 990 0402 292 555

brisbaneaswamedh2014@gmail.com Lunch (Mahaprasad) will be provided daily. Dinner will be provided Friday and Saturday.

“Creating a harmonius, benevolent society through the union of science and sprituality”

Bollywood TTalent Ta a Spectacular 2013 Saturday 6th July 2013

Live Performances, Dinner, Live DJ and much more!!

Gujarati Association of Queensland annual event that includes artists of all ages performing on stage.

Featureing a special arrangement for authentic, delicious, tasty food by a professional chef.

Venue: Lourdes Hill College, 86 Hawthorne QLD 4171, street parking available. Time: 6.30pm to late

Catagory Children under age 6 Children aged 6 to 11 Seniors aged 65+ Members Non-Members

Early Bird Special (before 16th of June 2013) Free $10 $15 $25 $30

After 16th of June 2013 Free $10 $15 $30 $35

Tickets are available from Rupal Badiani: 0401 069 788, Naitik Mehta: 0402 460 860, Anuj Sodha: 0416 626 521 Limited sponsorship avaliable, please contact Anuj Sodha on 0416 626 521. *GAQ reserves the right: to refuse entry, to not serve alcohol to underage or intoxicated or unruly guests.

Presented by

GAQ

46 - BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013

www.indiantimes.com.au

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

WHATĂŠS ON! JUNE 13 / JULY 13

Tune into the two hour Bollywood Show between 7-9pm on Global Digital Channel of Radio 4EB Listeners who do not have DAB+ radio can listen the program live on the web at www.4eb.org.au/global.

You can also view other shows/timetable at above link Bollywood Show proudly sponsored by Brisbane Indian Times Tune into the two hour Bollywood Show on 99.7fm Monday nights between 7-9pm.

Proudly sponsored by Brisbane Indian Times NEW – Fijian Programming Group – Prasanth Ki Laharch, Fiji Centric Hindi Program on Radio 4EB Digital Global, every second Thurs 8-9pm

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The Rotary Club of Archerfield’s Annual Fund Raising Dinner and Auction

FAMOUS GAMBARO’S SEAFOOD RESTAURANT Cold and cooked Seafood - Roast Beef - Chicken and Vegetarian meals - Salads & Desserts

Due to renovation delays we have had to postpone our Annual Fund Raising Dinner to 14th June 2013.

The management of Gambaro’s regret this inconvenience.

Date:

14th June 2013

Time:

6.30pm for 7.00pm

Address: Caxton St, Petrie Tce Guest Speaker: PP Russ Higginbotham Dress: Smart Casual

Australian Rotary Health MC:

Lester Drew

Complimentary: Beer - wine - soft drinks 6.45pm to 7.45pm

Tickets: $110.00 individual Corporate Tables: $1,100 per (10) table Special Draw Prize for Corporate Table bookings

Entertainment provided Auction Items: x Art Works, Sporting Memorabillia x Corporate Donated Items!! - Maximum 20 lots x Multi Draw Raffle

(Special Prize to highest bidder present) Auctioneer: Paul Zoeller Beneficiaries of the function will be: x x x

Australian Rotary Health Fred Hollows Foundation — Overseas Eye Program Local and Club Charities * EF/POST facilities available for tickets and on the night, fees apply

Parking: Under cover parking at ‘The Barracks’ 150metres away Closing Time: 1.00pm (Fees and charges apply)

Bookings

RSVP: 5th June 2013

E: rcarcherfield@rotary9630.org Or Call: Mark Ledwidge Phone. (07) 3277 2687

Ray Deen (Coordinator) Phone: M 0418 738 432 (07) 3879 9492

Printed by the office of Graham Perrett MP, Member for Moreton

Want to know what’s on? Subscribe to Brisbane Indian Times Event Notifications - Each Friday you will receive a email with what’s on for the weekend and coming weeks.

To subscribe email admin@indiantimes.com.au or visit www.indiantimes.com.au

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 47

Bollywood & Entertainment Elan Elanko congratulated for the launch of his movie ‘Iniyavale Kaaththiruppen’ on DVD FEDERAL Member for Parramatta Julie Owens congratulated local film maker Elan Elanko for the successful DVD launch of his movie Iniyavale Kaaththiruppen (Sweetheart, I’ll wait for you).

‘This is a heartfelt story of two families in Australia separated from their loved ones and how they get along while they wait to be reunited” Ms Owens said.

The first Tamil movie made in Australia, it’s a full-length drama was produced by local film maker Elan Elanko and was selected for screening in the Tamil Film Festival in Norway early this year.

“This is a great local achievement, a touching movie that will no doubt resonate with • Julie Owens with Elan Elanko many Tamils in my electorate” Ms Owens said.

Sunday 1st June at the Yarl Function Centre The DVD of the movie was launched on in Pendle Hill.

Shiamak, a pioneer of new dance forms: Ameesha Patel MUMBAI, June 3 (IANS) Actress Ameesha Patel is so impressed with choreographer Shiamak Davar and his style of dancing that she calls him the "pioneer of new dance forms".

"Shiamak (Davar)ji is a pioneer of new dance forms. Earlier, dance uses to be typical Bollywood, but it is Shiamak, who has brought the modern dance forms mixed with filminess," Ameesha said here at an event organised by Shiamak where her "Shortcut Romeo" co-sar Neil Nitin Mukesh was also present.

The two were there to promote Susi Ganeshan directed thriller "Shortcut Romeo".

"He is the one who brought the acceptability that we can also do something different, can also compete with Hollywood," added Ameesha, who had last year performed with the choreographer at Apsara Awards.

Known for contemporary style of dancing, Shiamak has choreographed dance sequences in movies like "Taal", "Kisna", "Bunty Aur Babli" and "Dil To Pagal Hai".

In fact, Shiamak is credited to be the first Indian to popularise contemporary jazz and western forms of dances in the country

through his school SDIPA (Shiamak Davar Institute for the Performing Arts).

Concluding, she said: "Year after year, Shiamakji improves himself. He has great energy, there is never any sign of tiredness over his face, no lack of enthusiasm. He keeps encouraging."

Neil, who has been a student of Shiamak's, too, heaped praises on the choreographer.

He said that he is able to dance, "because of one man and that is Shiamak Davar," Neil, who has showed his moves in the songs like "Aa Dekhen Zara" and now in "Shortcut Romeo".

"There is a beautiful thing that he has probably taught his students - keep a smile on your face because that's a curve line that puts everything straight," added the 31year-old.

Big B recalls 'lifetime' with Jaya on 40th anniversary

48 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013

'Yeh Jawaani...' crosses Rs.60 crore in opening weekend

By Radhika Bhirani NEW DELHI, June 3 (IANS) "Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani" is zooming towards joining the Rs.100 crore club. The Ranbir KapoorDeepika Padukone starrer has managed business of Rs.62.11 crore at the Indian box office in the opening weekend itself.

The youthful romantic entertainer released Friday 31 May, pulling in audiences from all quarters with its package of a suited-tothe-T cast, visually soothing cinematography, peppy music, energy-packed choreography and a simple yet well-executed script.

On its opening day, the Ayan Mukerji directorial minted Rs.19.45 crore, and on Saturday and Sunday, the movie managed Rs.20.16 crore and Rs.22.5 crore, respectively.

Officials at UTV are happy that the Rs.50 crore film, which released in over 3,000 screens in the country, has "taken the box office by storm".

Gaurav Verma, director, India Theatrical Distribution, Studios, Disney UTV, said the film was doing "exceptionally well across India even in territories like Tamil Nadu and Kerala where Hindi film business is very limited".

Trade analyst Taran Adarsh said the film had an "excellent opening" and had emerged as the biggest opener of 2013 so far.

"The film has fared exceptionally well at multiplexes and was very good at single screens too," Adarsh tweeted.

Deepika felt positive vibes from fans before the film hit the screens, and admits that the box office collection has "surpassed" the team's expectation.

"Somewhere we started feeling it when we were promoting last week - there was a massive buzz. It was a great feeling."

"People today are aware of box office and how much it is going to do. We were expecting it to collect a certain figure, but MUMBAI, June 3 (IANS) It's been 40 years since Amitabh Bachchan married his "Zanjeer" co-star Jaya. The megastar looks back at the "lifetime" and says god has been kind to give him the family that he has.

Amitabh and Jaya are celebrating their anniversary.

"40 years! 40 years of marriage on the 3rd of June 2013! Jaya and I in marriage for 40 years! A lifetime almost," the 70-year-old posted on his blog srbachchan.tumblr.com.

The duo has worked together in movies like "Abhimaan", "Chupke Chupke", "Sholay" and "Zanjeer". They had a small wedding affair back then with only close friends and family in attendance.

It "seems like just the other evening", Big B posted on his blog, adding: "I had driven with my parents to a friends place on Malabar Hill, in the southern region of the city, and to a very quick, no fuss, no 'taam jhaam', family and a few friends, and a few close media, wedding."

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the collection has surpassed our expectation. It is a feeling we can't even explain," the actress told IANS while sharing her thoughts on the film's success.

Yes, expectations were high from "Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani", and why not? The producer, director and lead actor come from film families, with a fair share of credibility in the industry. And it was only relevant that they met those expectations.

Producer Karan Johar, son of late filmmaker Yash Johar, lived up to his trademark of knowing the pulse of the young audience, while "Wake Up Sid" director Ayan Mukerji, grandson of Indian cinema pioneer Sashadar Mukherjee and the son of actor Deb Mukherjee, has given a perfect follow up of his debut.

After delivering a stupendous performance in the much-acclaimed "Barfi!", lead actor Ranbir Kapoor, who belongs to Bollywood's famed 'Kapoor khaandan', has proved yet again that he can fit into any role just like a glove. His dancing capability gets better with every film, and the ease with which he handles emotional scenes, is worth a mention.

What works wonder is his reel chemistry with once real life girlfriend, Deepika Padukone. The movie stands testimony to the "We're friends now" theory that Ranbir and Deepika have been trying to tell the world ever since they've parted. There's hardly any discomfort that comes across on the screen - whether it's in their friendly and fun scenes, or when they lock lips in a moment of passion.

In more than supporting roles are Kalki Koechlin and Aditya Roy Kapur. Kalki, as the tomboy Aditi, wins hearts with her straightforward dialogues and carefree demeanour, while Aditya, as the alcoholic Avi, strikes a chord with his attachment to his friends.

Not to miss is Madhuri Dixit's "Ghaghra" song, and Deepika's Indian wardrobe!

"A wedding that had the fulfilment of a promise, that if 'Zanjeer' succeeded we would get married! Here we are now, two children and three grand children, son-inlaw, daughter-in-law, relatives and 'samdhis' in our family fold. God has been very kind," he added.

Amitabh and Jaya have two children Shweta and Abhishek. Shweta is the elder, and is married to businessman Nikhil Nanda. She got married in 1997 and is now based in Delhi. They have two children Agastya and Navya Naveli.

Abhishek, a Bollywood actor, is married to former beauty queen-turned-actress Aishwarya Rai. They have a daughter named Aaradhya.

Big B received several anniversary wishes online, and he took to Twitter to thank everyone.

"To all those that wish us a happy anniversary... our gratitude and love and blessings and joy! Thank you," he posted.

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Bollywood & Entertainment

Udit Narayan Concert in Brisbane

IT WAS a great success! More than 1300 music lovers were absolutely overjoyed and extremely proud to witness the legendary Indian singer Sri. Udit Narayan’s performance on last Saturday at Hillsong Brisbane, Mt. Gravatt. The Udit Narayan Music Concert in Brisbane was organized

by The Brisbane Indian Events Team. Sri Udit has been ruling the Bollywood music scene for over 30 years with his endless string of memorable songs and super hits.

In fact, Udit performed for the first time in Brisbane a musical show including all his preferred songs! The songs were mainly sung in Hindi, but he also sang some Nepalese, Telugu, Malayalam, Odishi songs

as well.

During the early hours of Friday morning he arrived at the Brisbane International airport and was welcomed by organisers and friends. Udit told those present at the airport “It seems Brisbane has very gorgeous weather and lovely people. I experience like I am still in India”.

Function commenced at 7pm and concluded at 10.15 pm. At the end of the event audience members didn’t want to leave as they could not get enough of the brilliance that is Udit Narayan. Organisers had also provided some extra dances and songs from talented artists locally as well as from Sydney.

Bombay Dhaba, Menon & Associates and Brisvaani radio were the main sponsors of the event.

“He was very kind and friendly person.

Which is very hard to find among popular artists” said Unnikrishnan, one of the organisers.

Udit was very keen in meeting all those hundreds that had gathered after the show to catch a sight of the star. He talked to each fan individually and gladly posed for photographs.

On Sunday, before boarding his flight to Melbourne he said, “Brisbane is beautiful, thanks for your big-hearted welcome. I am happy to have had such a good concert and

thanks to the amazing Brisbane spectators and organisers!”

We hope these types of events continue to be brought to Brisbane. Let us congratulate the organisers - Prakash, Unnikrishnan, Anjila, Jatish and Rafeeque.

Many Indian community association leaders also attended and fully supported the success of this event.

Everyone - music lovers young and old experienced the legendary music by India’s most highly acclaimed artist, the highly gifted singer Udit Narayan!

Unni Brisbane Indian Events (Organising Team for the Indian Music Legend)

Jaitly’s appeal: animals belong Fitness fanatic Hrithik Roshan Celina with their families, not in Zoos reveals his ‘Best Body’ secrets Bollywood beauty asks fans to try to relate to animals fate SUAVE and sexy actor Hrithik Roshan doesn’t only impress us on-screen but off-screen too. The heartthrob was recently seen working on his physique for his forthcoming film Krrish 3; directed by Rakesh Roshan, co-starring Vivek Oberoi, Priyanka Chopra and Kangna Ranaut.

The fitness fanatic spends hours in the gym, and undertook a rigorous work-out regime to build his distinctive ‘superhero’ look in Krrish 3. World-renowned trainer Kris Gethin, who facilitated Hrithik’s fitness plan for Krrish 3, recently launched a book ‘’The Bodybuilding.com: Guide to Your Best Body’’. Hrithik attended the book launch and showed great interest in this, passing on his recommendations to fellow Bollywood stars as well as fitness advice to his many fans.

Hrithik is renowned as Bollywood’s ‘fitness guru’, and was named ‘Asia’s sexiest man’ recently. The talented actor and keen dancer is a strict believer in maintaining a healthy body and having confidence in your appearance. He also emphasises that parents must encourage their children to take part in extra-curricular activities and to exercise regularly “One need not starve to get a perfect look. One needs to be happy with their body’’ he says.

Hrithik Roshan is currently filming for Indian film re-make of Knight And Day with Katrina Kaif, and will be resuming his superhero character in Krrish 3, out this Diwali 2013.

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SYDNEY – Wearing a top with a plunging neckline and short shorts while crouched in a cage next to the caption “Try to Relate to Their Fate. Animals Do Not Belong in Zoos”, Bollywood actor Celina Jaitly appears in a brand-new ad for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India. PETA India and Jaitly want people to know that animals who are locked up in zoos suffer and that their true natures can’t possibly be appreciated when they are kept in captivity.

Celina also sat down for an exclusive interview. The broadcast-quality version of the video can be downloaded from www.petaav.com/4broadcast/celina_ jaitley_anti_zoo_ad.htm.

“The lives of animals in zoos are manipulated. They are not given the freedom to socialize and choose their partners and have no control over when their babies will be taken away from them and sold on to some other zoo to be put on display”, says Jaitly. “Animals treasure their freedom as much as we do, so PETA India and I are asking people to take a stand by steering clear of zoos.”

Hundreds of thousands of animals languish in zoos around the world. Because these animals are denied everything that is natural and important to them, they express their frustration and loneliness through obsessive, repetitive and even self-destructive behaviour, such as pacing, head-bobbing and self-mutilation. An Oxford University study based on four decades of observing animals in captivity and in the wild found that animals such as polar bears, lions, tigers and cheetahs “show the most evidence of stress and/or psychological dysfunction in captivity” and concluded that “the keeping of naturally wide-ranging carnivores should be either fundamentally improved or phased out”. PETA India has conducted many investigations in zoos across India, revealing horwww.indiantimes.com.au

rific conditions, including deficiencies in food, drinking water, housing, veterinary care, environmental enrichment, safety and security.

This isn’t the first time that Jaitly – whose movie in Kannada, Srimathi, was a major hit and whose last Hindi movie, Thank You, was a box-office hit – has teamed up with PETA India to help animals. She also shot an ad in which she was shown bound in chains and which carried the caption “Shackled, Beaten, Abused. Stop Cruelty to Elephants”. After a man was killed by an elephant at the Mumbai Zoo, Jaitly sent a letter to the Central Zoo Authority urging the agency to relocate that elephant and another at the zoo to a forested area.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013 — 49

Sports News Brisbane kicks off month of footy fever celebrations 22 MAY, 2013: The Lord Mayor of Brisbane Graham Quirk launched a month of footy fever in The City to encourage visiting and local football fans alike to show their colours and stay for a party, meal or the night.

Cr Quirk said June would see Brisbane host the first test between the Qantas Wallabies and The British & Irish Lions as part of the DHL Australia 2013 British & Irish Lions Tour. Queensland’s own Reds will also take on the might of the Lions on Saturday 8 June, as well as do battle against the Melbourne Rebels.

In Rugby League Brisbane’s Broncos will tackle the New Zealand Warriors and West Tigers, State of Origin returns to Suncorp and in the AFL Brisbane Lions meet the Geelong Cats.

Speaking at the launch of Brisbane Marketing’s Show Your Colours campaign, Cr Quirk said the convergence of high profile national and international games would see an influx of locals and visitors for football and festivities.

“These events are expected to attract almost 70,000 visitors to Brisbane and inject fun and excitements as well as an estimated $17.7 million into the local economy,” he said.

“Brisbane Marketing is working closely with Tourism and Events Queensland as well as retailers, accommodation providers, restaurants, cafes and bars to activate our city to ensure it is colourful and welcoming to fans.

“The city will be themed, with live sites and fan zones, illuminated infrastructure such as buildings and bridges with and special celebrations being planned for different precincts after each game including: Post

Office Square, South Bank, Caxton Street and Eagle Street.

“Some hotels are offering themed rooms, and Brisbane’s leading pubs, bars and restaurants are supporting with cleverly created cocktails, menu specials, early dining options and much more.

“A dedicated Show Your Colours website and activity guide is available to help fans make the most of Brisbane’s lifestyle, events and activities.

“I encourage everyone in Brisbane to proudly show their colours and ensure we give our visitors our warmest welcome.”

Minister for Tourism, Major Events, Small Business and the Commonwealth Games Jann Stuckey said tourism was a key driver of the Queensland economy and the Newman Government recognised the important role events play in boosting visitor numbers to the state.

“According to the latest Tourism Research Australia figures, Brisbane welcomed six million visitors in 2012, and major events like these allow us to showcase our capital city as a premier holiday destination to a national and global audience.

“The Show Your Colours campaign is a fantastic initiative which will create a vibrant festival atmosphere across Queensland’s capital and help cement Brisbane’s reputation as a leading sporting events destination.”

“The Queensland Government, through Tourism and Events Queensland supports this campaign as it will bring the Brisbane community together and showcase the city as a destination to travellers.”

Visit www.footybrisbane.com.au for more information.

Politics and sports should not be mixed: PM

By Jaideep Sarin ON Board PM's Special Aircraft, May 31 (IANS) Politics and sports should not get mixed, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Friday 31 May, on the spot fixing and betting scandal that has rocked cricket in India.

Asked if the government was contemplating intervention into the scandal, Manmohan Singh said: "I would not like to comment on the type of things you have mentioned. This is under investigation."

The prime minister refused to be drawn into the controversy that top politicians, including ministers, were holding top positions in the Board for Control of Cricket in India (BCCI).

"It is not proper for me to comment. I only hope that politics and sports don't get mixed," he told the accompanying media on board his special aircraft after ending his five-day visit to Japan and Thailand.

Cricket has been in the midst of a major controversy following a spot fixing scandal involving players in the cash-rich Indian Premier League (IPL).

Delhi Police busted the racket in the just concluded IPL, with the arrest of three players of Rajasthan Royals. This included controversial fast bowler S. Sreesanth.

The spot fixing controversy was followed by the Mumbai Police busting a betting racket involving bookies and big names.

Mumbai Police arrested BCCI president N. Srinivasan's son-in-law Gurunath Meiyappan and Bollywood actor Vindu Dara Singh for alleged involvement in betting.

Srinivasan's India Cements company owns IPL franchise Chennai Superkings.

Gurunath was managing the team as a team owner.

Madrid's wax museum to feature replica of Ronaldo MADRID, June 1 (IANS/EFE) Soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo signed with the Madrid wax museum, after which two sculptors spent most of an hour taking measurements of his muscular anatomy.

As if Michaelangelo were preparing to carve a statue, the professionals measured the body proportions of the Real Madrid striker, who wore shorts but no shirt.

The work was done using a compass, tape measure, pencil and paper, an approach resembling a scene from the Renaissance.

Ronaldo was surprised and then grinned at the sight of the traditional tools.

In what pose do you wish us to immortal-

ize you?

"I don't know, maybe something natural and simple, like I'm usually seen on the soccer pitch: standing, with my legs a little apart and looking straight ahead," the Portuguese international said, patiently allowing the sculptors to dissect his face into millimeters in the technique of classical drawing, and doing the same with his hands, neck, torso, abdomen and legs.

This is not the first time Ronaldo will be immortalized in wax - his sculptural image already stands in the London museum of Madame Tussauds, though he has never seen it.

Neymar could be next Messi, says Lampard RIO DE JANEIRO, June 2 (IANS) England midfielder Frank Lampard said that new Barcelona signing Neymar has the potential to be as good as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Speaking, on the eve of England's friendly against Brazil in the official reopening of the Maracana Stadium, Lampard praised the 21year-old striker, reports Xinhua.

"I played against Neymar at Wembley in February and I've also seen some videos of him on Youtube. He does some spectacular things," said Lampard, who is England's captain in the absence of the injured Steven Gerrard.

"I have spoken about him with David Luiz, Oscar and also Ramires. For me he is a young superstar and he has what it takes to do well for Barcelona. I hope he is successful. Football needs big players like Messi and Ronaldo and I think Neymar could also be one of those players at the top."

Lampard was among a group of England players that visited Rio's iconic Christ the Redeemer statue Saturday 1 June. He admitted the city had a charm like no other he had visited and said the trip had whetted his appetite to return for next year's World Cup. "Being here is a nice.

There is a certain magic in Brazil and particularly in Rio. We know there's work to be done to qualify and it is up to us to do that. I'm confident. There are lads that are going to make a name for themselves and possibly will be peaking at the perfect time," the 34year-old said.

Lampard added he was looking forward to playing at the Maracana Stadium, whose reopening comes after almost three years of reconstruction work and cost overruns.

"The Maracana is world renowned. I grew up hearing stories about it and it's an honour to play there. It's a new stadium now but the name remains the same. In England we have Wembley which is a great stadium and the Maracana is in that category."

Betting odds advertising banned during the broadcast of live sports matches ALL promotions of odds by gambling companies and commentators will be banned during the broadcast of live sports matches, under new rules.

The Gillard Government has demanded that Australia’s broadcasters amend their broadcasting codes in the following ways to ensure a reduction in the promotion and advertising of gambling during sport: * All promotion of betting odds on broadcast media will be prohibited during live sports matches. This includes by gambling companies and commentators. * All generic gambling broadcast advertise-

ments will be banned during play.

Advertisements of this sort would only be allowed before or after a game; or during a scheduled break in play, such as quartertime and half-time. * Banner adverts, sponsorship logos, and other broadcast promotions must not appear during play. * When crossed to, representatives of gambling companies must not be at or around the venue. They also must not appear with the commentary team at any time and must be clearly identified as a gambling representative.

50 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013

* The Government will monitor the intensity of generic gambling advertisements within the allowed periods. If it is found to go beyond reasonable levels, the Government will impose a total advertising ban.

The public have had enough of odds and betting promotions being shoved down their throats while listening to and watching sport.

Younger Australians, in particular, should continue to talk about which is the best football team, best netball team, or best rugby team, not which team is at the shortest odds to win a game.

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These measures ensure that the watching of sport and the promotion of gambling is kept separate.

The Government expects that the broadcasting industry will submit a revised code to the Australian Communications and Media Authority that reflects this position as soon as possible.

The Government expects the ACMA to consider these revised codes promptly.

Should the industry elect not to do this, the Government will fast-track legislation to enshrine these standards in this term of Parliament.

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Sports News New Cricket Club - Player Jagmohan Dalmiya slots available for Winter 2013 Cricket administrator who Courtesy Sathish Rajendran

OVER the past 6 months, It’d be a fair statement to say BrisbaneSuperKings has grown as both a group and a team. We’ve improved vastly in both skill and teamwork, and the quality of our games has certainly vastly improved; but more than that what we truly value is the delight we all share in playing a game we all love with a variety of friends; as such we’d love to see some new faces around.

Inexperienced or veteran, amateur or professional, every cricket lover is welcome into this warm and positively competitive environment where we strive to become better than yesterday and mature

both as cricket players and as individuals.

On a further note, one particular piece of great news is that we’ve actually been allotted our own cricket grounds by the Brisbane City Council!

So for anyone out there who’s possibly interested to play on Sunday’s, feel free to sign up and come along for our favourite sport which gives us a taste of and undoubtedly reminds us all of home, in India. It’ll be a decision you’ll never regret making as with us, you’ll embrace the true spirit of cricket all the while having as much fun as possible!

For further information contact Sathish on 0433 922 733 or visit www.brisbanesuperkings.com

Bayern Munich win German cup to seal historic treble

BERLIN, June 2 (IANS) German record champions Bayern Munich defeated Stuttgart 3-2 in a dramatic German Cup final to wrap up a historic treble at the soldout Berlin Olympia Stadium here.

The Bavarians completed a perfect season in Jupp Henyckes last match as coach when they became the first German side to clinch the Bundesliga title, German Cup and UEFA Champions League Saturday 1 June, reports Xinhua.

From the kick off both sides staged high paced and offensively minded football to the delight of 74,244 spectators.

With roughly two minutes on the clock Arjen Robben's shot on target almost ensured Bayern a delightful start but Stuttgart's goalkeeper Sven Ulreich turned the ball around the post.

With 36 minutes into the encounter referee Michael Graefe awarded Bayern a penalty as Stuttgart's Ibrahima Traore brought down Phillip Lahm inside the box. Thomas Mueller stepped up to convert the penalty

with a well-placed shot.

The Bavarians started with vigour into the second half and doubled their lead through Mario Gomez, who exploited an assist by Lahm in the 48th minute. Stuttgart lost further ground as Bayern scored the third in the 61st minute when Gomez sealed his brace following a neat build up by Mueller.

With the match seemingly dead and buried Stuttgart pulled one back through Martin Harnik's header in the 71st minute.

With ten minutes remaining Harnik scored his brace as Stuttgart reduced the arrears to 2-3.

But the late surge from Stuttgart proved to be a little too late as Bayern held on to their one goal advantage.

Bayern Munich is now the seventh team in Europe to complete the triple.

"This is an emotional moment. The team gave me a fantastic present. The treble is unique and a novelty in the Bundesliga. The decisive factor was the team spirit," Bayern coach Jupp Heynckes said after the match.

rose like the phoenix KOLKATA, June 3 (IANS) Nearly sixand-half years after he was ignominiously expelled from the cricket board, and forced to quit as Cricket Association of Bengal president, Jagmohan Dalmiya has risen like the proverbial phoenix to yet again head the world's richest cricket body, albeit temporarily.

Even days back, as the raging spot fixing scandal rocked Indian cricket, nobody had an inkling that the seasoned sports administrator - credited with having changed the face of the game through his marketing skills - would make a comeback at the top of Board of Control for Cricket (BCCI).

However, he seemed to have played his cards well, working on a beleaguered and gradually friendless BCCI chief N. Srinivasan, to elevate himself to the apex position in the BCCI. But, midway into the last decade, it seemed almost next to impossible for the astute administrator to be in any kind of reckoning following his abrupt fall in the cricket administration.

After serving a tenure as International Cricket Council chief for three years since 1997, Dalmiya became BCCI president in 2001 and continued to be the all-in-all in the board till his tenure ended in 2004.

Late that year, Dalmiya foisted his acolyte Ranbir Singh Mahendra as BCCI president in a tantalizingly close election where then union minister Sharad Pawar threw his hat into the ring for the top post.

As the election ended in a tie, Dalmiya gave his casting vote to ensure Mahendra's victory, prompting a dejected Pawar to remark that the entire process was unfair.

"The umpire was the bowler," Pawar had quipped after his loss.

Dalmiya then controlled the board by proxy for a year, with Mahendra being a mere puppet. But the Pawar camp fought back by using all means - court battles, political pressure, and other strategies - to checkmate Dalmiya at his own game in the 2005 election.

Pawar registered an emphatic victory to become BCCI chief while his team won all the other key posts, as the Dalmiya

Naming Rights for Queensland Inter-district Championship (QIDC) Masters Trophy

Hamilton predicts more wins for Mercedes LONDON, June 1 (IANS/CMC) The 2008 Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton says Mercedes can win again this season but must not be distracted by the recent tyre-testing controversy.

Mercedes won in Monaco with Germany's Nico Rosberg, who also secured the team's fourth successive pole position, while Hamilton finished fourth.

The victory was Mercedes' first since China in April last year.

"I really do feel that this team is just going to continue to improve through the year," said Hamilton.

"Once we understand these tyres more, which we will eventually get to, and then I think another win is definitely on the books."

The victory was clouded by the revelation that Mercedes had tested with Pirelli earlier in the month without telling other teams and seemingly in breach of the sporting regulations that ban teams from in-season testCall Trudi on 07 3356 0102

camp suffered an embarrassing defeat.

Months later, the BCCI lodged a police complaint against Dalmiya for alleged misappropriation of funds related to the 1996 World Cup in which India was a cohost.

As Damiya faced a police probe, the BCCI expelled him in December 2006, that also forced him to step down as the Bengal cricket president.

In mid-2007 Dalmiya was exonerated by the court, and he returned to head the CAB in 2008, by defeating then president Prasun Mukherjee. However, in the next few years Dalmiya seemed only a shadow of the former self, shorn of his influence in the board.

But silently he started mending fences with his detractors in the board including the likes of Lalit Modi, one of the architects of the Indian Premier League.

When Modi was ousted as the IPL commissioner and forced to leave the country, Dalmiya started patching up with the Srinivasan-Sashank Monohar combine, though Pawar continued to be an arch enemy.

Pawar, then the ICC chief, is alleged to have played a key role in robbing Eden Gardens of an India-England World Cup match in 2011, due to an under-prepared stadium to further embarrass Dalmiya.

But the wily cricket administrator bided his time to effect what may be called a fairy tale comeback.

According to a board source, Dalmiya will function as its top executive - in Srinivasan's absence - and if secretary Sanjay Jagdale and treasurer Ajay Shirke refuse to withdraw their resignations, then nominate their replacements.

He will also appoint Jagdale's replacement in the IPL spot fixing probe commission.

Only a day after his name was floated by the CAB, Dalmiya was Sunday told to take care of the day-to-day affairs of the board after Srinivasan stepped aside in the wake of the spot fixing scandal.

At the peak of his career, Dalmiya was known as a trouble shooter par excellence. It though remains to be seen how the astute administrator tackles Indian cricket's latest scandal.

ing.

After a protest by world champions Red Bull and Ferrari, the governing International Automobile Federation (FIA) is now considering whether to send the matter to an international tribunal that could impose heavy sanctions.

"I think it's important that we just stay focused and don't be distracted by a lot of stuff that's around us," said Hamilton Mercedes and Pirelli have both denied doing anything underhand or gaining any competitive advantage over rival teams from the Barcelona test.

"It's so easy to do that (be distracted), and especially for the drivers and the team when we are at the track," Hamilton, who is in his first season with Mercedes after leaving McLaren.

The QFFA tournaments have gained in popularity over the years, with several thousand spectators and supporters attending our various tournaments during the course of the year including teams from overseas and interstate. QIDC generally takes place in October or November each year and is seen as the pinnacle of Fiji soccer tournaments in Brisbane.

"I think it's important we just keep our minds clear and just keep doing the job at hand."

Tender closes on 28th June, 2013.

QFFA wishes to announce that a tender is now open for the QIDC Masters trophy naming rights. The naming rights will apply for the duration of three years. Applicants should nominate a yearly sum for the naming rights for each of the next three years commencing from 2013 to 2015.

QFFA reserves the right to make the final decision in selecting the successful applicant.

Please send your tender in a sealed envelope attention to: Jitendra Prasad (QFFA Vice President) P.O.Box 30, Browns Plains QLD 4118

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013 — 51

52 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, June, 2013

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