May 14

Indian Times

Brisbane

A Division of Qld Multicultural Times

As God is One, we respect all Religions

Print Post Approved PP:424022 1724

Volume 11, Number 8 Saturday, May 10, 2014

Telephone: (07) 3865 6533 Fax: (07) 3865 5864 E-mail admin@indiantimes.com.au

Historic Ashwamedha Yagna held in Brisbane

• Report page 6.

From the Publisher WELCOME to our May issue, last month has been a particularly busy one, we were all busy with the preparation for AWGP Ashamedha Yagna, in preparation we held many small events to promote the upcoming Ashwamedha Yagna, with Toli.

Then we had the Ram Naumi celebrations, we tried to personally attend as many as we could, again with time restraints we had to roster the days around. After Ram Naumi, we headed off to India for our annual function in our ancestral town Khetri in Rajasthan, normally we have this function in January, but as it was too close to my mum’s passing away we had deferred the event till later in the year. It worked out well as my Uncle from London was able to join us for the annual function.

This was the first year when we held the event in the night time.

After the function in our ancestral town we headed to Hyderabad to attend a wedding in the Royal grandeur. It was the wedding of Nabil-Fareed Alikhan son of Yousuf and Farrah Alikhan, very close friends of ours. It was just a wonderful experience to attend a wedding of this calibre, we really enjoyed all the pre and post wedding functions.

We found a bit of time for some sightseeing and enjoyed the visit to Falaknuma and Charminar, no trip would be complete without some shopping, yes time had to be found for this. Hyderabad is such a bustling and alive city, the High tech area is comparable to Silicon Valley and San Nose of California USA. Traffic even though heavy, seemed to be moving better than other cities of India.

Finishing the trip we had to rush back to Brisbane via Hong Kong for the historic Aswamedha Yagna.

What a great achievement for AWGP Brisbane Chapter, all the planning finally paid off, I felt guilty that I could not do as much as other members of the committee, Tirat Achal and his team did a marvellous job, I was particularly happy to see all Hindu groups come together for this mega event, we had representation from Arya Samaj, Baps Swaminarayan, Diva Jyothi Jagran Sansthan, Shree Laxmi Narayan Mandir, Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir, Sanatan Dharam, Indian Seniors Citizens, Gayatri Mandir and many more. Radio Brisvaani was full time, so this coming together of everyone was the biggest success of the event and to me it fulfilled one of the major aims of

Ashwamedha Yagna. All sessions were well attended, initially the committee were a bit concerned that being Easter, they might not get the numbers, but we were pleased that all our promotions had worked and people had stayed back to participate in this mega event.

Now onto something different, our band, The Brisbane Babas Band, another very busy month, we took part in the Ocean World Festival in Maroochydore, it was very well organised with beautiful sound and a very appreciative audience, our segment was so well received we were very happy to be part of such an event. Following that we travelled to Woolgoolga NSW for the Curry festival, again what an experience, the organisers were pleased with our three huge performances and the performance for the after Party. This was the first time Woolgoolga Curry Festival had a full live Indian Band, we got such good reviews on social media and local papers. The country people extended their kind hospitality to us; over thirty thousand people attended the festival.

Congratulations to Nikhil and Dharni for their grand wedding reception at the landing, Dockside Kangaroo point, a real high standard has been set, was a good time to catch with so many friends.

We also attended the official opening of Mehfil Indian Restaurant in Felix Street, City, quite impressive I quite like the way it has been set out, rather than your conventional all seating Indian Restaurant it has a touch and feel of a sophisticated bar culture, this will fit right in with the inner city trends.

Now at the Rotary dinner function, somehow the magician picked me to be his scapegoat in front of five hundred people, it was a good event well done Zaffar Khan and his committee.

Had a great time at Lanham May festival as the MC of the program, Lanham May Fair was officially opened by Lord Mayor Graham Quirk, and was sponsored by Cr Fiona King, Brisbane City Council and Stafford Rotary.

With a very good team of sound engineers we managed to run the whole program on time.

I will finish off with congratulations to Brisbane Roar for winning their third ALeague Championship in four years...well done!

Until next month, happy reading Umesh Chandra.

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Inside • Letters to the Editor.......................2 • Migration Matters...........................4 • Local News.................................5-21 • Who, What, Where, When...22 & 24 • Health & Well Being................30-33 • Real Estate................................34-35 • Business Directory.......................36-37 • Classifieds..........................................37 • What’s On................................38-39 • Bollywood & Entertainment...40-41 • Sport................................................42 2 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014

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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.

All correspondence should be addressed to: Brisbane Indian Times, PO Box 197, Taigum Qld 4018.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014 — 3

Migration Updates....

Temporary Graduate Visa THE temporary graduate visa enables graduates who have completed their studies in Australia while on a qualifying student visa, to live and work in Australia temporarily after they have finished their studies.

This visa has two streams: Graduate work stream – for international students who graduate with skills and qualifications that relate to an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL): Schedule 1.

A visa in this stream is granted for 18 months.

Post-Study work stream – for international students who graduate with an eligible qualification. This stream is only available to students who applied for and were granted their first student visa to Australia on or after 5 November 2011.

A visa in this stream can be granted for up to four years, depending on the applicant’s qualification.

Applying for a temporary graduate visa

Graduates must meet the Australian study requirement. The Australian study requirement is defined as study in Australia in a course registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) for a period of at least two academic years (92 weeks).

The course itself must be conducted in English and must be completed in no less than 16 calendar months.

English language, health, character and security requirements will also need to be met and evidence of adequate health insurance for the duration of the visa will need to be provided.

Applicants must be in Australia when they apply for this visa and when their visa is decided.

Applicants must provide evidence that they

Health insurance requirements

have appropriate arrangements in place for health insurance in Australia spanning from the time they lodge their subclass 485 visa application until the time a decision is made on the application.

If the applicant holds a valid student visa at the time they apply for the subclass 485 visa, their existing Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is acceptable at the time of application. However, OSHC is not acceptable if the applicant’s student visa expires during the visa processing period.

OSHC is also not acceptable cover at the time the department makes a decision on the subclass 485 visa application. The applicant must make arrangements for nonOSHC cover in both of these circumstances.

If the applicant is granted a subclass 485 visa, they must continue to maintain adequate arrangements for health insurance for the duration of their stay in Australia once the visa has been granted. OSHC is not an acceptable form of health insurance for this purpose.

If the applicant’s country has a reciprocal health care agreement with Australia and they have enrolled with Medicare, they are considered to meet the minimum requirements for adequate health insurance and no further health insurance cover is required.

This article is intended to provide general information on migration issues and does not constitute migration advice, and no responsibility is accepted by Ajit K Shahi or Naam Migration Australia for the accuracy of material appearing in Brisbane Indian Times.

Ajit K Shahi MARN: 1174452

Tel: 3846 7774

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014 — 5

Historic Ashwamedha Yagna held in Brisbane BRISBANE, 18 April, 2014: A grand Ashwamedha MahaYagya was held in the Mt. Gravatt Showgrounds in Brisbane, by the Head of All World Gayatri Pariwar and Chancellor of Dev Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya, Revered Dr. Pranav Pandya and Revered Smt. Shailbala Pandya, by unfurling 7 flags including the national flags of Australia, New Zealand and Fiji, the Tricolor of India, and the Ashwamedha Yagya flag. On this occasion, the chief guest, Mr Mick Moss from C&M Productions and Sgt. Jim Bellos hoisted the Australian Flag.

In the Kalash Yatra (procession of people carrying sacred pots) with 501 sacred pots (kalash), flags, banners and exhibits based on protection of environment, entire Brisbane city resonated with the slogans for

reconstruction of the era, divine Indian culture, Lord Ram and Lord Krishna. It is noteworthy that this program is being specially attended by non-resident Indians (NRIs) of Fiji, who are spread in various countries including Fiji, New Zealand, Australia, USA, Europe, Africa, Japan and China.

Hon. Chancellor, Dr. Pranav Pandya said in his address that India and divine Indian Culture are destined to be the spiritual teacher of the world (Jagad-Guru).

Australia is called the “Land of Opportunity”, i.e. the place that presents opportunities for material progress; through Ashwamedha, it will be made the “Land of Physical, Mental and Spiritual Opportunity”. This grand spiritual experiment will definitely provide solutions for

various kinds of environmental hazards faced by the entire Australian continent such as floods, cyclones, earthquakes, tsunami and bush fire.

The preparations for the MahaYagya had started way back in April 2013. Since last two months, a 13 member team from Shantikunj, under the guidance of Prof.

Pramod Bhatnagar, had been conducting extensive tours of different cities of Australia and organizing preparatory programs therein. Today, in an environment resonating with the divine chanting of Vedic mantras, ringing of bells and blowing of conch shells, Revered Smt. Shailbala Pandya, Head of All World Gayatri Pariwar, announced the starting of the Brisbane Ashwamedha MahaYagya, which is the 41st MahaYagya is a series of Ashwamedhas conducted worldwide by All World Gayatri Pariwar, and 11th of those conducted outside India. She said that this MahaYagya will ensure peace and harmony for entire humanity. With this announcement, the MahaYagya began in an extremely beautiful, special tent hosting the 251 altar (kunda) Yagyashala, in which the invocation of the deities (Dev Poojan) was done, and special oblations (ahutis) were offered for the protection of environment

and progress of Australia. Special prayers were offered to water, jungle, land, air, Sun and sea, to set aside their hazardous effects, and, be calm and peaceful.

In the afternoon, informative seminars were organized on various topics including Gayatri, yagya, physical / mental / spiritual health, power of thoughts, problems faced by youth and their solutions, women empowerment, law of karma, personality development, extraordinary potential of mantra, and, why Ashwamedha MahaYagya. These seminars were conducted by various speakers including Hon. Chancellor, Dr. Pranav Pandya, Smt. Shailbala Pandya, Professor Pramod Bhatnagar, Dr. Ajay Vadera, Shri Sanjeev Rai, and Shri Neeraj Rai. In the evening, cultural programs were organized, which depicted India’s unity in diversity, with various dances including garba, kathak and bhojpuri. A warm welcome was presented through an aboriginal Australian dance. Everyone appreciated the short play conducted by the Bal Sanskar Kendra (Center for inculcating righteous virtues in children) of Sydney. The singing of Vande Mataram and National Anthem brought back the fond memories of the motherland.

Brisbane Babas Band featured at Ocean Street World Festival

6 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014

A FANTASTIC day of Music, Food and Art, featured Brisbane Babas Band, more and more Australian Festivals are taking on a multicultural approach and becoming very successful. In embracing the cultural diversity of this great land and appreciating World music this is a very positive approach. Brisbane Babas band has been promoting the Indian music to the wider community for over twelve years. They will next feature at the Ipswich Global Fiesta.

The Ocean Street World Festival was a community celebration of culture, music and food. It was held on Easter Sunday 20 April, the event brought together the Sunshine Coast’s diverse flavours, sounds and people. The Ocean Street World Festival included market stalls representing many different countries food and culture and entertainment featuring musicians from all around the world playing many styles.

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The whole family was catered for with amusements for the kids and the choice of Ocean Street’s bars and restaurants for Mum and Dad. This is what the organisers had to say on social media: “Hi everyone.. Yesterday!

Was just an incredible event! And it happened! Yes! It did!!!! Thousands of people from different backgrounds, different age groups, enjoying the beautiful Easter weather and the Fantastic Ocean Street Festival. It’s a gig I’ll never forget the food, the music, the happy friendly ambience in the street, you wish it could happen every week ...thank you so much to all of you, and also thank you Malcolm, Aaron and Jade the production crew for the Duke Stage and all those involved in the planning and setting up of this fine fine family festival. Long may it continue” ....Cheers Barry Charles.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014 — 7

Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Qld - VED Prachaar 2014

By Jitendra Deo

VED Prachaar programme in Queensland was organised by Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland from April 4th to April 9th 2014.

People of greater Brisbane, were very fortunate to once again hear Pt Guru Datt ‘Arya Ratna’ one of Fiji’s finest and well known Vedic Pracharak and a excellent Vedic Bhajan vocalist who was spreading the true knowledge of VEDAS at various locations for the benefit of general public and members.

Topics each evening related to different aspects of day to day life. Pandit Guru Datt made the discourse very interesting and with his melodious voice and Vedic Bhajans made the program very motivating. Looking at the satisfied reaction from the audience and the comments received, Pundit Ji’s discourses were very well received each day.

Pandit Ji added lot of day to day applicable illustrations in his Vedic Prachaar making it authentic and very easy to comprehend. The feedback from the audience present each evening was overwhelming and encouraging and gave us the opportunity to meet expectation of the members and public. The demand for the Ved Prachaar has been tremendous, and enlightening for everyone. Dinner was served

each evening to the general public.

The Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland is grateful to many people for their outstanding support during the VED Prachaar and hopes that all the people who attended this year’s Ved Prachaar would have been in some way enlightened by the teachings of the VEDAS and understood the • Pt Guru Datt 'Arya Ratna' during Ved Prachaar.

message from the themes chosen and be able to make a change in their life for their progress and well-being.

Special thanks to Radio Brisvaani and Brisbane Indian Times for free publicity of the programme to Brisbane community.

Rotary Fun Night ZAFFAR Khan does it again, as President of Rotary Club of Archerfield, Zaffar organised a wonder Rotary Fun Night. The event boasted over 500 people, and had Michaels Restaurant and function centre bursting at the edges.

Rotary fun night was a project of Rotary Club of Archerfield and the night included Bollywood Dancers choreographed by Asha Shah of Bollywood Dhamaka. Punjabi Bhangra by Shere Punjab group and Magician Matt Hollywood.

Matt Hollywood chose Umesh Chandra for the first act and Lester Drew for the second act.

Zaffar Khan ran the night in his charismatic fashion, while everybody enjoyed the seven course sit down dinner served by Michaels Restaurant. Rotary Club is known for its fundraising activities and this

8 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014

night was no exception there were plenty of auction items offered for competitive bidding.

New members were encouraged to join; people who filled in the friends of Rotary forms went in a draw to win a Samsung Tablet.

Activities, aims and objectives of Rotary International were highlighted and Mustafa Ally was a guest speaker. With many auction items the program ran for a little bit longer than expected but everyone had lots of fund and enjoyed the night.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014 — 9

Lest we forget Courtesy Pete Lane Rai

Fiji Senior Citizens march on ANZAC Day

FIJI Senior Citizens joined Veterans, Local Politicians, Councillors, local school students, associations and others in Anzac Day march and service at RSL Sunnybank to pay tribute to all men and women who have fought for our nation in the war. We salute their service, we mourn their losses, and we pay tribute to their families and dedicate ourselves to their continuing welfare.

Lest we forget.

We request organisations and members of Indian communities to join the national Anzac Day which is celebrated on 25th April every year and pay respect to those men and women who sacrificed their lives for our country which we love and enjoy living.

Surendra Prasad OAM

Adjusted opening hours for Council’s pools over the cooler months SELECTED Brisbane City Council pools have started their winter operating hours.

Lord Mayor Graham Quirk said 15 of 20 Council’s pool complexes would stay open during the cooler months, with adjusted hours.

“Of Council’s 20 pool complexes, 15 include a heated pool, which means that people can continue to use these facilities

year-round in comfort,” he said.

“We know that residents love visiting Council’s pools, with over 1.2 million visitors during the summer months in 2013-14.

“I’d encourage residents who frequent the pools to check opening hours from this Monday onwards.”

For more information visit www.brisbane.qld.gov.au or call 3403 8888.

AT DAWN in Toowong Park, Brisbane on April 25th 2014, a kookaburra gave its unique call, warning other birds away from its territory while nearly a thousand men, women, (including former and present members of the armed Services) and children stood quietly remembering the ANZACs who landed at Gallipoli Cove, Turkey 99 years ago. Our correspondent Pete Lane Rai was amongst the crowd who had gathered at 5am in the dark, at the annual ANZAC Day Dawn Service. A choir and orchestra added much depth to the service.

Thousands attended dawn services in Brisbane and later, over 20,000 watched the Brisbane ANZAC Parade.

Similar crowds gathered at the Gold and Sunshine Coasts, around the nation and on the distant shores of Gallipoli, Turkey as the spirit of the ANZACs shows no signs of abating While the dawn services had a sober, religious attitude to commemorate the landing, later in the day at pubs, barbecues and in parks there was time to relax in typical Aussie style with cricket, a “two up” game and a barbie!

Lest we forget: On April 25th, 1915, 600 Australians died at the landings and 63 were Queenslanders. When the campaign ended 8,709 Australians had died with over 20,000 wounded.

Lest we forget: ANZAC Day is a time to remember all Australian men and women who have served (or are still serving), who have fought and died in the numerous con-

flicts across the world. Families of these service men and women need to be honored Lest we forget: At Toowong Park both the Commander and Chaplain of the Queensland University Regiment in their address reminded us that “Out of the darkness of war can come light, out of death can come light. That the spirit of the ANZAC was courage, initiative and comradeship, and that we as Australians in 2014 must preserve this spirit in honour of the ANZACS “ The kookaburra had stopped calling, the sun was rising, when finally the ode was spoken: “Age shall not weary them”

Brisbane Babas Rock Woolgoolga

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COOL market stalls, warm weather and plenty of hot curry were all the right ingredients for a great Curryfest at Woolgoolga on 26th April 2014.

The forecast rains didn’t come down, the crowds were up, and the entertainment was, to quote one festival-goer, “very entertaining”. Brisbane Babas Band had three mega performances during the day and the after party at Seaview Tavern. From Brisbane Dance Masala Group did Bollywood dances and Bhangra dance was performed by the local boys Sher Punjab and the Sydney based Ministry on Bhangra An exciting menu of diverse food from the Middle East, Asia, and South America, Africa and India and even a few Aussie classics tempted many tastebuds.

Great food, plenty of interesting market stalls selling an eclectic mix of wares, a good mix of entertainment and a wellorganised kids’ zone are only some of the reasons this local event set a new benchmark for a fun family day out.

Woolgoolga is a town on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales, Australia. It is on the Pacific Highway, approximately 550 km north of Sydney and 400 km south of Brisbane. The closest city to Woolgoolga is Coffs Harbour, which lies 25.8 km to the south. Woolgoolga has two beaches on the Pacific Ocean. The area has long been a

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centre of banana growing in New South Wales, but this industry has declined in the face of competition from Queensland and overseas. Timber getting and sawmilling was established in 1883. A Government Jetty was constructed in 1892 upon which tramways were laid. These led to saw mills in the town which in turn were connected by light railway to the Jesse Simpson Range forest areas. The jetty was demolished over a prolonged period from 1952 to 1956.

Woolgoolga was an early centre of Sikh migration to Australia. Sikhs had migrated to New South Wales and Queensland prior to the imposition of the prohibition of nonEuropean migration under the White Australia Policy in 1901 and many of them then led a marginalised life on the north coast of New South Wales and in southeastern Queensland. Some Sikhs began to settle in Woolgoolga during World War II, because war-time labour shortages led to a relaxation of the previous prohibition of non-European labour in the banana industry.

After the war they were able to acquire leasehold and freehold banana plantations.

Woolgoolga has the largest regional Sikh/Punjabi population in Australia, and they are now said to own 90% of the banana farms.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014 — 11

Lanham May Fair in its sixth year!

THE May Fair is in its 6th year and is a fun family day for the community. The Lord Mayor Graham Quirk officially opened the Fair at 1.45pm. The official party Included Lord Mayor Graham Quirk, Cr Fiona King, Cr Andrew Wines, Cr Norm Wyndham , Cr Vicki Howard, Senator Sue Boyce, Ian Walker - Stafford Rotary and MC Umesh Chandra.

Local State Primary Schools in the Marchant ward area were asked to participate in an Art Competition. Organisers had a great response with over 200 children participating in the competition, ranging in age from 6 years to 9 years. The children had to do a drawing under the heading of “The Environment in my Suburb�. Lord Mayor handed out the winner’s certificate to the youngsters.

Umesh Chandra was once again the MC for the entire event, the event ran smoothly with every stage item on time. The excellent sound and sound engineers made this possible and good stage management.

The program included, Aspley East State

Vietnamese community remembers 1975

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School Marching Band, Franciscan College Rock Band, a brand new Australian Rock Band - “Aussie, Aussie, Aussie�, Bollywood Dances by Brisbane Malayalee Association, a British Rock and Roll Band - “Just the Ticket and the Two tenors�. The program concluded with the Movie in the park “The Croods�.

During the day Stafford Rotary held raffles and Karen, Liz & Catherine wandered around during the afternoon and handed out FREE raffle tickets to the adults. The prize for the raffle was a dinner for two at Viet Lotus restaurants. Free McDonalds vouchers were handed to the children, this was donated by Richard Norman from Stafford McDonalds.

Children’s rides such as jumping castles, face painting, stilt walkers were all there.

And the Food stalls: chips, pizza, hamburgers, ice cones, popcorn, coffee stand and Indian.

Many Information stalls including police link were there.

May Fair was sponsored by Cr Fiona King, Brisbane City Council and Stafford Rotary.

Date: 23rd May 2014 Overseas & Local Update by the

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12 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014

THE Brisbane Vietnamese community under the leadership of Dr Cuong Bui and their Australian allies marked “the day of mourning� – the anniversary of the fall of Saigon which ended the Vietnamese war on 30th April, 1975.

The service was held in both English and Vietnamese. A Vietnamese guard of honour was mounted within the Shrine of Remembrance and before the Vietnam War memorial statue.

A group of young women in Vietnamese national dress stood near the memorial.

Some were styled as the Australian flag; others were styled in yellow with three red stripes, the Freedom Flag of South Vietnam.

The ceremony was hosted by the Queensland Chapter of the Vietnamese Community Association of Australia and included Christian blessings by Reverend Janice Hughes and Buddhist blessings by

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The Venerable Thích Thiᝇn Hᝯu.

Vietnamese community representative Mr Van Tran, Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Veterans Affairs Ms Alison Stanley and RSL Queensland president Mr Terry Meehan paid tribute to the sacrifices of the South Vietnam armed forces and allies and to the Australian people for helping Vietnamese refugees.

After wreaths were laid at the foot of the Vietnam War memorial statue, the last post was sounded, and a minute’s silence observed for the fallen.

The service concluded with both national anthems and the dismount of the Vietnamese guard of honour.

A small plaque affixed to the Shrine of Remembrance in honour of those who fought in the Vietnam War quotes Euripides: “What greater grief than the loss of one’s native land.� Lest we forget.

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Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014 — 13

Make sure your charity donations go to the right place Courtesy Sudesh Aggarwal IN Australia, people give generously to charities and help those in need. This includes newly arrived and migrant Australians, who often take the time to volunteer in their community and make donations to charities.

Sometimes dishonest people can target those who try to help others, including people who do not speak English well or those who are vulnerable, such as the elderly.

If you are asked to make a donation to a charity, there are things you can do to make sure your money is going to a legitimate cause.

Giving money or other items is always your choice, and you can always say no. If someone comes to your house, and you do not know them, you can always ask them to leave or to come back when someone else is home with you.

• Tips for donating safely: You can search the ACNC Register at acnc.gov.au/findcharity for the name of the charity. This is a free, online list with the names and details of all charities registered by the national regulator. You can search by charity name, by state or territory, or by beneficiary (those the charity helps).

• Always ask for identification from door-to-door and street fundraising collectors.

• If you are contacted by phone by someone you don’t know and they ask for money, ask for more information from them and a return phone number before you think about donating.

• If you do give money, ask for a receipt. Check the receipt has the charity’s details on it, including an 11digit Australian Business Number (ABN).

• Do not provide your personal, credit card or online account details unless you are asked by a person you trust, particularly if you are asked by phone.

Do not open suspicious emails – delete them. If you are concerned about how people are asking for donations or about what the charity does, you can raise your concerns with the charity itself or the ACNC. Some fundraising concerns need to be dealt with by a statebased regulator but the ACNC can direct you to the right place.

If you manage a not-for-profit community organisation, think about whether it can be registered with the ACNC as a charity – it may be able to receive charity tax concessions, as well as being on the ACNC Register.

More information: For more about the ACNC and charities in Australia visit acnc.gov.au. In-language information is also available at acnc.gov.au/languages For information over the phone, call 13 22 62. If you do not speak English well, phone the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) on 13 14 50 for help with your call.

Brisbane Indian Times - Amendment Notice In Brisbane Indian Times April Issue, Volume 11, Number 7 published an article on page 24 - Meeting Point, Shyam Das. The following information was incorrectly stated; • He arrived in Australia in 1988 with his wife and two children.

Amendment: Shyam Das migrated from India in 1988, the children of Shyam Das were born in Australia and were not present at time of arrival in Australia.

• Shyam Das has been serving the community since 1989.

Amendment: Tareget Travel and Tours came into existence in May 2002.

Brisbane Indian Times apologises for any inconvenience caused from the above mentioned amendments.

Ram Navami celebrations...

RAM Navami is a festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Rama. Rama Navami falls on the ninth day of a Hindu lunar year or Chaitra Masa Sukla Paksha Navami, which usually falls in March or April.

Lord Rama is an avatar of Lord Vishnu who came down to earth to battle the invincible Ravana in human form.

The epic is known as the Ramayana.

During the reign of king Dasarath, Ayodhya, the capital founded by the king Rishi Manu, reached a period of great prosperity. But Dasarath faced a big problem: he had no children.

It was decided to conduct a poothrashti yagna. A very holy man, Rishi Rishyashring, was chosen to conduct the Yagna with the utmost accuracy. The performance of this yagna was a great event in Ayodhya. At the end Rishyashring recited a mantra and made an offering to the fire. Then the gods, gandharvas, siddhas, and rishis present arid began to pray to Brahma.

At that time Ravan, king of Lanka, was terrorizing the people, and all were longing for liberation from his menace.

Ravan had acquired great power because he had obtained from god Brahma the boon that he would never die at the hands of gods, or gandharvas, or yakshas (demigods) or demons. Brahmadev declared that Ravan would die at the hands of a man. Then the gods went to Vishnu with the request, Dasarath is a glorious king. Please, take birth in the wombs of his three queens in four different degrees of your divinity.

When Dasarath’s yagna came to an end, a shining figure appeared over the sacrificial kund, and offered the king a divine beverage to be given to his queens Kausalya, Kaikayi, and Sumitra. In due time Kausalya gave birth to Rama, Kaikayi to Bharat and Sumitra to Laxman and Shatrugna.

Rama was born at noon of the bright ninth day of Chaitra.

He was believed to be the embodiment of half degree of Vishnu’s divinity.

The festival of Ramnavami is celebrated with great devotion across the nation and every region has its own regional significance behind the celebration. Ayodhya is the focus of great celebrations. A huge fair is organized for two days.

Ratha yatras or ‘chariot processions’ of Rama and his wife Sita, brother Lakshmana and devotee Hanuman, are taken out from many temples.

In Brisbane Ram Naumi was observed at various Hindu temples; Following report is from Shree Laxmi Narayan Temple.

Lord Rama was born on Navami Tithi during Shukla Paksha of Chaitra month. Each year this day is celebrated as birthday of Lord Rama. Lord Rama was born during Madhyana period which is middle of Hindu day. Madhyana which prevails for six Ghatis (approximately 2 hours and 24 minutes) is the most auspicious time to perform Rama Navami Puja rituals. The mid-point of Madhyana marks the moment when Shri Rama was born and temples symbolize this moment as

birth moment of Lord Rama.

Prior to the auspicious moment Shree Laxmi Narayan Mandir held hawan, bhajan and katha sessions daily from the 31st of March till the 8th of April 2014. Our Resident Priest Pt Harihar Adhikari Shastriji conducted the Hawans & delivered the daily sermons, whilst our very dedicated team of bhajan singers; young and old participated during the nine day period.

Ram Naumi was also observed at Gayatri Mandir in Boondall, the residing priest was Pdt Praveen Shandil, dinner was provided on all of the days. The celebrations were well attended. A fully ordained toli (group of three) from Shantikunj Harodwar India, who are members of All World

Gayatri Pariwar conducted the first nights program.

Ram Naumi was also observed at Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir under the guidance of Dharan Guru Ram Harash Tripathi Ji, various groups took part in the daily Bhajans.

All other Hindu Religious institutions observed Ram Naumi 2014.

Devotion melts my heart quickly Submitted by Sundar Gopal Das RAMA Navami, the appearance day of Lord Rama was celebrated on 9th April.

Hindus all over the world celebrated this event by glorifying through bhajans and reading His pastimes from Sri Valmiki Ramayana or from Tulasi Das’ Sri Ramacharita Manasa.

Lord Rama is known as Maryada Purushottam. Even though, He is the Supreme Lord and beyond all rules and regulations, He lived in such a way to show an example of ideal person; as an ideal son in obeying His parents, as ideal husband to His wife, A good brother to his younger brothers, a good and ideal king to the people of His kingdom, a good and ideal protector of dharma and an example for morality.

In addition he has given a lot of instructions on how one should live his life in this world and how to attain the Lord.

Once Lakshmana approached Lord Rama with some questions when they were staying in Pancavati. Below are questions and answers as written by Sri Tulasi Das. 14 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014

[Laksmana]: O Lord of gods, men and sages, please instruct me and tell me how I may adore the dust of Your feet to the exclusion of everything else. Tell me of spiritual wisdom and dispassion and illusion; tell me of that bhakti (devotion) which You make an occasion for extending Your mercy.

O Lord, instruct me that I may be devoted to Your feet and freed from all sorrow, infatuation and delusion.”

[Lord Rama]: Dear brother, please listen with your mind and intellect. The sense of “I”, “mine”, “you” and “yours” is illusion which sways over all individual souls. The senses and whatever is perceived by them and that which lies within the reach of the mind – know these to be illusion. Of illusion there are two kinds – knowledge and ignorance; now hear the difference between the two.

Ignorance is evil and utterly calamitous, under whose spell the soul has fallen into the pit of worldly existence. Knowledge however, by virtue of which the world is created and which holds sway over the three modes of nature, is directed by the

Lord and has no power of its own.

Spiritual wisdom is that which is free from all blemishes such as pride, etc and which sees the Absolute equally in all things. One can be called a person of supreme dispassion who has abandoned all mystic power and the three elements as if they were no better than a blade of grass.

From the practice of virtue springs dispassion, from the practice of austerity comes spiritual wisdom, spiritual wisdom is the bestower of liberation; so declare the Vedas.

But brother, that which melts My heart quickly is devotion, which is the delight of My votaries.

Devotion stands by itself and requires no other stay, on it depends all knowledge, spiritual or profane. Devotion is incomparable and the very source of bliss, but it can only be acquired by the favour of the virtuous.

Now I tell you of the means of acquiring devotion, the easy path by which man may find Me. First one should cultivate exceeding devotion to the feet of sadhu, saints, and pay careful attention to one’s specific duty as the Vedas prescribe.

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The fruit of this will be indifference to the pleasures of sense, and dispassion in its turn will give rise to a delight in My worship.

This will bring steadfastness in the nine forms of devotion – listening to the Lord’s praises etc and there will be an exceeding love in the soul for my divine sport.

I am ever at the command of the devotee who is enamored by the lotus feet of holy men and observes the strict rule of prayer and praise, in thought, word and deed; who recognises none but Me as his guru, father, mother, brother, spouse, god and all and is steadfast in My service; who experiences a thrill running throughout his body while singing My perfections with faltering voice and streaming eyes; and in whom is found no lust, pride or hypocrisy.

In the lotus hearts of those who in thought, word and deed make Me their place of refuge and worship Me without any material desires, I take up My abode eternally.

Translation of Sri Tulasidas’s “Sri Rama Charita Manasa” by R.C. Prasad.

Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014 — 15

A Royal Affair in Hyderabad

By Umesh Chandra

THE wedding of Nabil-Fareed Alikhan to Sanya Ansari in Hyderabad India was nothing short of being a “Royal Affair” as reported in Hyderabad Chronicle. It further reported that who’s who of Hyderabad was at the wedding.

I was fortunate enough to have attended this wedding with my wife Usha Chandra. Nabil-Fareed Alikhan is the son of Yousuf and Farrah Alikhan of Pullenvale, Brisbane Australia. Sanya is the daughter of Khurram and Salma Ansari of Hyderabad. The Alikhans are a very prominent family of Brisbane; Yousuf Alikhan is a founder member and current President of GOPIO (Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin) Brisbane Chapter.

Let me sum up my experience of this true “Nawabi” wedding. We flew in from Mumbai and were met at the airport by our host Yousuf Alikhan who took us to our Hotel Radisson Blue. It had been a bit of a journey flying in from Jaipur to Mumbai and from Mumbai to Hyderabad so we were a bit tired to attend the Sangeet. The next ceremony was Manje, this was such a beautiful function with everyone wearing yellow, the setting was like something out of a Bollywood movie. This enchanted evening was elegantly set outdoors and the atmosphere was just great, local musicians played traditional music in the background and later the ladies sang traditional songs. Later on we were treated to the melodious singing by Yousuf Alikhan.

Sumptuous traditional dinner was set out, yes Hyderabadi Dum Biryani was on the menu. The next night we attended Sanchak at the Westin Mindspace in It Park Hyderabad, in this the ceremony the bride and Grooms family exchange gifts, another beautiful ceremony, the grooms

party gathered all the gifts and entered the decorated hall in a procession manner. In the hall the stage was creatively decorated with lots of flowers in garland form and the entire hall looked very elegant.

The next night was the big night, the wedding “Nikkhah”, in preparation everyone got together on the Business lounge of Radisson Blue for high tea and to get the Safas, “Rajasthani bandini type turbans” put on, everyone just looked great with Safas especially all the Australian boys, yes a lot of Nabils Australian friends boys and girls had travelled to Hyderabad for this wedding, they took part in all the ceremonies and looked so good in the traditional

Indian Dressing.

After a whole lot of photography, the groom’s party met in the lobby to depart in a procession manner for the wedding venue, Le Palais Royal Gardens. On arrival at Le Palais, local musicians met the wedding procession and we all started making our way to the wedding area with all the fanfare. Grooms party danced all the way to the entry to rhythmic music of the local musicians.

The garden of Le Palais was set up beautifully, the sheer size of the venue was overwhelming, and the decoration and lighting was amazing. The official “Nikkhah” was conducted and the lavish dinner followed, the colourful costumes, the enchanting outdoor setting set the scene for what could be only be described as magical and dreamlike.

The next event was the wedding reception which was held amongst all the glitz and glamour at Taj Krishna, another magical setting, the evening started off with a few formal speeches before the Australians took over, well to everyone’s delight Yousuf Alikhan sang Bollywood numbers to the music all Australian girls Band, Soha Alikhan and her four friends amazed everyone with their musical backing, they had all the interlude pieces perfectly worked out.

Following the singing the Australians went into Bollywood dancing, for this the Aussie boys joined in as well, their dances were perfectly choreographed and resembled a scene of a Bollywood movie. Nabil surprised everyone when he too joined in the dancing taking the lead role. Farrah Alikhan came out with her hidden public speaking talent to deliver a very confidently vote of thanks, after the sumptuous dinner yes more Biryani, everyone joined on the floor with the dancing, a truly Royal affair.

5th Shree Meena Ram Saini Smriti Kavi Sammellan

THE fifth Shree Meena Ram Saini Smriti Kavi Sammellan was held on 5th April in Khetri Rajasthan. The Sammellan is usually held in the Khetri Polo ground but this year the ground was taken by Congress party for a rally meeting so the Kavi Sammellan had to be shifted to the Grounds of Hanuman Gadi Mandir. This was the first Kavi Sammellan to be held in the night, as during the day everyone was attending the political rally.

Late Shree Meena Ram Saini is the grandfather of Umesh Chandra and Khetri is their Ancestral town. Khetri is a famous town in Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan in India. It 16 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014

• Presentation at Kavi Samellam.

is the part of Shekhawati region. Khetri is divided into two townships; the old “Khetri Town” was founded by Raja Khet Singh Ji Nirban, whereas the modern portion which is known as “Khetri Nagar” is about 10 km away from old Khetri town. Khetri Nagar is known for its copper and mineral rich mines. The township of Khetri Nagar is built and is under management of the Hindustan Copper Limited, a public sector enterprise of Government of India.

Khetri Nagar carries a multicultural ambiance due to people from all states working in the copper project.

Khetri was the second largest Thikana of

• Crowd at Kavi Samellam.

Shekhawati. Initially it was under the control of Nirban Rajputs, later usurped by the Shekhawat Rajputs. The last rulers of Khetri were from Shekhawat clan of Kachwaha Rajputs. Shekhawat Maharaja Ajit Singh Bahadur of Khetri was a close friend and disciple of Swami Vivekananda.

It was only Raja Ajit Singh who helped and motivated Swami Ji to attend the Chicago Dharma Samellan.

Khetri also houses a Center of Ramakrishna Mission, and this Center is active in spreading the messages of Swami Vivekananda. This Centre is being renovated at the Moment.

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The Annual Kavi Samellan is financed by Umesh Chandra of Australia and his Uncle Ram Jattan of London England. The main organisers are Dinesh Saini and his team.

The Kavi Sammellan went into the early hours of the morning and was attended by a very large number of people. It has become an iconic event in Khetri’s calendar.

On Sunday 6th April a cricket Carnival was led at the polo grounds this is to encourage the youngsters, Umesh Chandra said in his speech that he would like to see this annual event take a bigger shape and encouraged the youngsters to take part in the cricket Carnival.

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Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014 — 17

Younger generation need to know....

Certificate awarded to Tabla, Harmonium and vocal Music students High Commission of India, Suva

• Students waiting for an interview, before team members from ICFI pay their fees directly to the school.

By Sarat Maharaj BEFORE the history of the first Indians in Fiji disappears into oblivion, we need to tell the younger generation of today as to who they really are, what their true background is, and who is responsible for their current status. Yes, they all are descendants of those ill-fated Indians brought to Fiji by the British Government of the day in 1879 under false pretences.

In brief, the colonial masters forcibly brought thousands of innocent Indians from India to Fiji Islands to work on sugarcane farms, under an indentured labour scheme from 1879 till 1916. The five-year agreements (known to Fiji Indians as “GIRMIT”) signed by these Indians under duress, were meant to be living in paradise situation, but it was far from the honey & milk initially promised. Instead, these Indians were required to work very long hours and under extreme conditions, clearing virgin forest to plant sugar cane which later became the main industry of Fiji.

Whilst toiling on the farms and living under horrible conditions in cramped workers’ camps, they made one more big sacrifice, that is, their determination to educate their children, only to make a better future for them. Yes, the education many of the younger generation is so privileged to have

today, started from those humble beginnings, in very challenging circumstances, of the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. The second and third generations followed in the footsteps of their pioneers, with great success displayed today.

However, following several military coups in Fiji, many students just did not have the capacity to pay for their school fees, because the income source of their parents from farms stopped abruptly. So, some descendants of the pioneer ‘Girmitiyas’, now living overseas, stepped in to provide school fees for these neglected students.

International Congress for Fiji Inc (ICFI) has been assisting thousands of students since 2002. This year they have again organised a Live Indian Musical Evening to raise more funds to help students in Vocational Training and Diploma Level, so that students can get a job after graduating, and look after their whole family.

The event will be on Saturday 17 May 2014 at the Cannon Hill Anglican College Auditorium. Dinner will be provided.

Contact Sarat Maharaj on 3263 2093 or 0407 111 709 for donations & details or visit www.icfi.org.au or go to Face Book.

Looking forward to seeing more of the younger generation this year. Learn more about your heritage.

ON successful completion of their curriculum, 72 students of Tabla, Harmonium and Vocal Music were awarded certificates by the Indian Cultural Centre on 25 April 2014.

The function was attended by strudents of the Cultural Centre and their parents and invited guests. Shri P K Das, Chief Executive Officer, Bank of Baroda’s Fiji Operations, was the Chief Guest on the occasion.

Shri Vinod Kumar, High Commissioner, congratulated the students. He also appreciated the efforts of Shri Viveka Nand, Faculty of Tabla, Harmonium and Vocal • Mr Vinod Kumar, High Music, in teaching and promoting music in Fiji, as well Commissioner, presenting as parents of young students in providing the much need- Certificates. ed motivation to children. Shri Viveka Nanada was a student of the Indian Cultural Centre in the 70s and is an accomplished tabla and harmonium exponent and vocalist.

A cultural show was also presented by Shri Viveka Nand and the students. (main picture).

HIGH Commissioner launches Collection of Hindi Poems “MARG” HIGH Commissioner launches Collection of Hindi Poems “MARG” HE Mr Vinod Kumar, High Commissioner of India, was the Chief Guest at the at the launch of “Marg”, a collection of Hindi Poems

by Mrs Maharaj Kumari Bhindi, on 24th April 2014, at the University of the South Pacific.

High Commissioner conveyed his best wishes to Mrs Maharaj Kumari Bhindi in her noble literary tasks and said that Mrs Bhindi has made significant contribution to Hindi teaching and literature in Fiji. She

has been involved in preparation of text books for teaching Hindi and has also been involved in Hindi Journalism. He further said that the effort of Mrs Bhindi to put together her Hindi poems adds to the existing literature in Fiji, and hoped that this would certainly encourage others to also make contributions to the teaching and promotion of Hindi in Fiji.

High Commissioner also thanked the University of the South Pacific for organizing the function.

A need for Indo-Fijians to reconnect, reclaim and restore their history

By Thakur Ranjit Singh 14 May is a significant date for Indo-Fijian Diaspora. On this day in 1879 the first ship load of Girmitiyas- Fiji’s indentured labourers – arrived in Fiji at Levuka in the historic vessel, the Leonidas. I do not blame Indo Fijian for not knowing the history of their heritage, as our school history fails to recognise and acknowledge this fact, which appear to have been stolen from successive Indo Fijian generations. This article is intended to enlighten and awaken the silent pride of Indo-Fijian Diaspora, and urge them to observe FIJI GIRMIT REMEMBRANCE DAY on 14 May of every year.

Do you ever realise that we now have a distinct Indo-Fijian culture spread around the world? We are a group of Indian migrants, who not only retained their culture and traditions, but in fact strengthened them to the extent that wherever they are settled, they are a distinct breed of Indians, very different from the mainland Indians. We give credit for this preservation of Indianness to the foresight and vision of our Girmitiya forebears who gave priority to education.

However, do Indo-Fijians have respect and pride in their heritage?

On Thanksgiving Day, Americans think of and honour those who sacrificed for America in creating a new homeland. On ANZAC Day (Australia and New Zealand Army Corps), respective nationals think of their soldiers who fought for their countries and gave their lives. On Waitangi Day, New Zealanders mark that as a nation-building day.

Then why cannot we, Girmitiya descendant Indo-Fijians, set aside at least one day in a year to think and honour those who sacrificed their life and gave us this better life than they ever dreamed of?

It is time we inculcated pride of the new generation in their history. What I suggest is that we need to tell our children and grandchildren about the stories of Girmit so that they know where they have descended from and how full of suffering, sacrifices has been those Girmit journeys.

To realise this dream, a group of Indo-Fijians in Auckland New Zealand, have taken steps to reconnect, reclaim and 18 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014

Indo-Fijian family to resurrect the memories and pay our respects to our Girmitiya forebears for the sacrifices that they made and the legacy that they left for successive generations.

The day’s programme will remember sacrifices, progress and vision of our forbears through oratory, poems, music and tales of the past. This will be a journey through memory lane which will provide exposure to a history that has been stolen from us, and remains yet to be told. Fiji’s celebrated academic son and historian of Girmit history, Professor Brij Lal is the Chief Guest He is Professor of Pacific and Asian History in the College of Asia and the Pacific at The Australian National University, Canberra.

And hence he is a very fitting and appropriate Chief Guest.

It is a fervent hope of the Foundation that such activities would assist in restoration of Indo-Fijian history; not only in New Zealand, but everywhere Indo-Fijians are settled.

Hence, the theme for this year’s commemoration is: • Chairperson of Fiji Girmit Foundation of New Zealand, Pundit Devakar Prasad (right) interviewing former Alliance Party Minister in Ratu Mara Government in Fiji, James Shankar Singh, after presenting him with Girmit medal in last year’s Girmit Day.

restore Indo-Fijian history. FIJI GIRMIT FOUNDATION NEW ZEALAND has been formed, among other things, to regularly organize commemoration of Girmit in New Zealand every year, and also become an umbrella organisation representing all Girmitiya descendants.

The Foundation is headed by former Deputy General Manager of Fiji Broadcasting Commission, Pundit Devakar Prasad (Chairperson) and other members include Thakur Ranjit Singh, (Secretary), Krish Naidu (Treasurer), former parliamentarians Master Shiu Charan and Sardar Harnam Singh Golian, author of “Tears in Paradise” and former Ba Town Clerk, Rajendra Prasad, and Pundit Ram Kumar Sewak, among others.

The Foundation is organising Fiji Girmit Remembrance Day on Sunday 18 May, 2014 at Auckland, New Zealand.

This event is organized to provide opportunity to every www.indiantimes.com.au

Reconnecting, reclaiming and restoring Indo-Fijian history The Foundation intends to strengthen our unique IndoFijian culture, language, customs and traditions to ensure that our children remain connected to the jewels of their inheritance. It is hoped, in a small way, the initiative, foresight and vision of Aucklanders are going to inspire our Indo Fijian Diaspora in Canada (Vancouver, Surrey, Calgary, Toronto etc), USA (San Francisco, Sacramento, Modesto Hayward etc), Australia (Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne etc) and even in Fiji to unite and get organised and tell our new generation the tales of Girmit that history has failed to acknowledge.

[E-mail: thakurji@xtra.co.nz] [Visit Fiji Girmit Foundation Facebook] [About the Author: Thakur Ranjit Singh is a journalist, a blogger, a media commentator and former Publisher of Fiji’s Daily Post. He is the Secretary of Fiji Girmit Foundation New Zealand. He runs his blogsite: FIJI PUNDIT, available at www.fijipundit.blogspot.co.nz] Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

Vijender Singh deals a heavy blow to circus cruelty in new ad for PETA India India’s first Olympic boxing medallist and Fugly star stands firmly for Animal rights by urging fans to say no to Animal Circuses

SYDNEY – Showing off his knuckles and posing next to the tagline “Knock Out Cruelty: Boycott Animal Circuses”, Olympic bronze medallist, acclaimed Indian boxer, Fugly star and new dad Vijender Singh stars in a brand-new ad for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India. Following PETA India’s recent investigation of 16 Indian circuses, Singh – who is the first Indian to win an Olympic medal in boxing and also won the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award, India’s highest sporting honour – wants people to know that animals in circuses are regularly beaten and deprived of everything that’s natural and important to them.

“Animals cherish their freedom every bit as much as we do, but circuses deny them their freedom and every other form of natural expression”, Singh says. “I’m asking people across India to help knock out cruelty by never attending a circus that uses animals.”

PETA India’s recent investigation showed that animals in circuses are subjected to chronic confinement, physical abuse and psychological torment. Whips and other weapons – including goads, which are heavy, sharp steel-tipped rods – are used to inflict pain on animals and beat them into submission. Animals perform confusing, dangerous tricks – such as jumping through rings of fire – not because they want to but out of fear of violent punishment.

For more information please visit PETAIndia.com.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014 — 19

Islamic Society of Algester fundraising dinner

By HJ Abdul Rahman Deen

THE Islamic Society of Algester held a fundraiser dinner on 25 April to assist in the completion of the Mosque Complex. Since the aspect of the GFC, funds have not been available to continue with the construction of the Mosque Complex to completion. It was decided that the best way forward was to stage the main building into two stages first stage the underground car park with the ground floor split into two sections.

Originally for Community Hall, now to be set as half for worship section & the other half for community hall & facilities & Sunday school purposes.

The cost to complete was in the vicinity of $1,950,000 +GST & BCC Fees & charges, since August 2013, we have collected $1,200,000. In February of 2014 it was decided that after straining the capacity of the Algester community to go to the general Muslim community of South East Qld for financial assistance, as the Algester Community has always helped all other societies with fundraising as well as other assistance & never asked for any assistance in return.

From the committee meeting of February 2014, we moved in a methodical manner, requesting other Islamic Societies, for permission to do collections on Friday at Juma prayers., with that support in hand, we went about collecting, with teams of collectors from Algester Mosque. We collected in 5 weeks approximately, including pledges $ 75,000, whilst selling tickets to a major fundraising Dinner booked for 25th April 2014. The community rallied & it was a complete sell out, of 720 tickets sold, Adults & children.

The programme was set from 6.30pm starting with recitation of the HOLY Quran, by Qari Hafeez Moulana Mohammed Asslaam who recited beautifully verses in particular to the event and gave the English translation about the benefits of giving for such a worthy cause. MC Sulliman Sabdia introduced the programme for the night, special motivational, Queesadah burdah were presented by BR Faraz Ismeal as well as Sheik Ahmed Abu Gazaleh who gave a Nasheed in Arabic and English. Moulana Nawaz

Ashrafi gave an inspiring talk on why everyone should give as much as they could afford and pledge into the future as well to make this Stage 1 complete for Ramadan, if we get enough funds and give until it hurts.

Hj Hussin Goss, worked out a new strategy with co-ordinator of Fundraising Hj Abdul Rahman (Ray) Deen to sell sections of the building...like door, windows etc, this achieved $80,000. The pledges to sign up for donations came to $180,000, the boys on the floor were run off their feet, answering all the monies being donated, all due to the Almighty, with persistence from Hasan and myself.

Various items were auctioned, the items were donated and purchased, mainly from Sydney with an Islamic Nature which is not normally available in Brisbane. Auctioneer extraordinaire, Br Hussin Goss, went into action selling items quicker than you could hand them out.

Dinner was served at 9pm, a 4 course meal provided by Scherazade Restaurant.

Everybody commented on how good the meals were, with a variety for all.

As the function was coming to an end it was time to square up all the proceeds for the night, it came to $320,000...double the best ever. ($160,000 was raised for the Toowoomba fundraiser) What a successful function which concluded with final prayers from Moulana Nawaz Shrafi, thanking ALLAH first & all those who participated, in any way what so ever.

President, BR Masood Ayoob gave a vote of thanks to all for all their efforts, giving special to the fundraising committee, & especially all the efforts of Br Hussin Goss for his entertaining manner of extracting funds for this very worthy cause.

Over the 2 months of collection we have achieved, all due to the Almighty, approximately $400,000, leaving us with a shortfall of $350,000 to make up in the next 2 months so that we may be able to complete Stage one for the beginning of Ramadan (Due to start at the end of June) With everybody’s help, INSHA ALLAH we can do it.

For those who wish to donate our details are below for your convenience.

Thank you all for all support given so far & hope for more in the future.

Algester Mosque Appeal

The festival of Chariots Where every word is a song, every step a dance, and every day a festival THE Festival of Chariots—the oldest continuously celebrated street parade in the world—comes to Brisbane on Saturday 7th June starting at 10:30am. Join the jubilant street parade and watch as Brisbane CBD comes to life like never before.

“The Brisbane City Council has very kindly agreed to shut down some of the city’s main streets for this parade and we can’t wait for everyone to see it,” said festival organiser Ms Niti Sheth.

The Festival of Chariots involves a large, hand-drawn chariot being pulled through the streets of Brisbane, amidst colour, song and dance; and ends at George Square where a free cultural festival awaits.

The Festival of Chariots, also known as ‘Ratha Yatra’, originated in Eastern India thousands of years ago. In 1967 it was celebrated for the first time outside India, in San Francisco, an initiative of the founder of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) – Swami Prabhupada. Since this time, the festival has been celebrated all over the world: from New York to Paris, Denmark to London, Melbourne to Moscow, the festival has grown to become one of the world’s most captivating spiritual events.

The pulling of the chariot symbolises the bringing of joy, love, and peace into our hearts, and it is said that looking upon the deities on the chariot will bring good fortune.

“The procession route is about one and a half kilometers long and is an easy walk,” Ms Sheth said.

“We’ll move at a leisurely pace and stop periodically for some song and dance.”

“One of this procession’s unique features is a huge wooden chariot with a red and yellow canopy decorated with swans, flowers and flags. This chariot has two thick ropes attached to it that will be pulled by the parade-goers, propelling the chariot through the city streets.”

“Riding on the chariot are the beautiful deities of Jagannath, Baladeva and

Subhadra,” she said.

“If you’ve ever dreamt of visiting colorful, exotic India, this will be a treat for you. You will have the chance to get a taste of India without leaving Brisbane.”

“We’re spreading a message of unity and love through the world’s oldest known parade and we want everyone to come along and take part in pulling the chariot,” Ms Sheth said.

“We’re spreading the message of eternal happiness, love and peace, through cultural and artistic expression. In fact we really need you all to come and help pull it. It’s a really big chariot!”

Jagannatha means “Lord of the Universe”.

The English word “juggernaut’, meaning an unstoppable force or large vehicle, originated from this festival, as the Englishmen watched the festival in amazement and sent anecdotes to their relatives in England.

The parade will begin at Queens Park (near the Treasury Casino) at 10 am, and wind its way along Elizabeth Street and down Creek Street. The parade ends in King George Square (in Adelaide street) with a cultural festival: a bright, temporary village of tents and stalls and free stage entertainment for the whole family. The festival (running from 11:30 am until 3pm) will include delicious, free vegetarian food and activities for the whole family including live music, cooking demonstrations, boutiques, and a kids corner with craft activities and face painting.

Organised by Food For Life Inc.— ISKCON’s charity—the Festival of Chariots is a delightful and vibrant expression of the timeless culture practiced by the members of ISKCON. Brisbane’s Festival of Chariots is organised by a team of around 100 committed volunteers and costs around $50,000 to run.

For more information about The Festival of Chariots, please visit: www.festivalofchariots.com.au or contact Niti Sheth on 0432 439 144 or nsheth108@gmail.com.

Groupon offers audition to star alongside Bollywood legend The Messenger of Allah (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) said: “Whoever builds a Masjid for the sake of Allah, Allah will build something similar for him in Paradise.”

[Sahih Muslim]

Pledge Form Name: .....................................................................................................................................................

Address: ................................................................................................................... ................................................................................................. Post Code: .............

Phone Home: .............................................. Mobile: ..............................................

Amount: $...........................................

Credit Card Details: Card Number: ............................................................................. Expiry: ........................ CVV: ..............

Account Details: Bank: Commonwealth Bank of Australia A/C Name: Islamic Trust of Algester BSB: 064 001 A/C No: 1049 4681 Branch: Adelaide Street (Brisbane)

Postal Address: Islamic Trust of Algester, PO Box 17, Sunnybank Q 4109

20 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014

GROUPON has teamed up with the King of Bollywood Shah Rukh Khan to bring its customers the exciting opporunity to audition for the most hotly anticipated Bollywood film of the year, Happy New Year.

Available exclusively on groupon.com.au, Aussies can buy a ticket to audition, giving them access to: • a private online audition protal; • Shah Rukh Khan’s purpose-filmed tutorial offering a crash course in Bollywood acting and dancing; • an official movie poster autographed by Shah Rukh Khan; and • a certificate of participation signed by Film Director Farah Khan.

Groupon Australia & New Zealand CEO, Alistair Venn says: “For everyone who has ever dreamed of being a movie star, this is your opportunity to make that dream a reality.

“For less than the price of a movie ticket, weʼre giving people the chance to star in a real Bollywood blockbuster, alongside one of the biggest movie stars in the world.”

Commenting on the launch of this unique deal, Shah Rukh Khan shared words of encouragement for budding actors: "Weʼre glad to have partnered with Groupon for this contest. I wish everyone participating the

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very best. So give your all to the audition and be a part of ʻHappy New Yearʼ. I'll see you on the sets!"

Film Director & Choreographer Farah Khan is calling for people from all walks of life to audition, no matter what the skill level: “I have always found the uniqueness of an artist interesting - so no matter what style of dance you know - good, bad or ugly - if you can make it unique then I am waiting to see you on the sets of Happy New Year. Break a leg!”

After the first round of online voting, 500 shortlisted candidates will audition in Mumbai in front of the movie production team, after which the top ten performers will be chosen to perform in front of Film Director Farah Khan.

The lucky winner will get ʻstar-likeʼ treatment with a personal vanity van, personal assistant and make-up artist, in addition to being appointed as a character in the movie and his or her name appearing in the movie credits.

This deal is available exclusively on Groupon in India, Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand and Singapore.

Visit www.groupon.com.au Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014 — 21

Who, What, Where, When

• Photo Pratap Narsey.

• “Nikhil and Dharni’s wedding was held at Manukau Event Centre, Auckland, NZ on 12 April 2014. Nikhil is the only son of Raj and Bharti Khatri of Brisbane, Australia and Dharni is the eldest daughter of Naresh and Varsha Kumar of Auckland, NZ. Approx 200 people were in attendance. Naresh and Varsha Kumar hosted a wonderful reception following the wedding. On 27 April 2014, Raj and Bharti Khatri hosted an extravagant wedding reception at The Landing on dockside, Kangaroo Point with 400 people family and friends were in attendance. The groom and bride arrived by boat on the Brisbane river accompanied by fireworks display. The celebrations continued with speeches and dance performances.

• OHM Queensland celebrated Vishu 2014 on Sunday 14 April. The programs included Bhajans, Vishu Kani (First sight), Vishu Kaineettam. Children are given gifts or small amount of cash on the Vishu Day in the belief that it ensures prosperity for children. This tradition is called Vishu Kaineetam. Followed by traditional Vishu Sadhya. Photo’s courtesy Krishnan K, President OHM Queensland.

• Becki Morris celebrated her birthday with family on 24 April, pictured with partner Brodie Gardiner.

• Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir Acharya Pt Ram Harsh Tripathi Ji performing Navgraha Pooja during the Navgrah Maha yagna at the temple on 26 April. A large number of devotees turned up for the Navgraha Maha yagna. Devotees were overwhelmed by the way the Maha Yagna was performed by Pandit Ji. Above Right: Acharya Pt Ram Harsh Tripathi Ji reciting Navgrah Maha Yagna mantras while all invited priests and devotees perform the Maha yagna.

• A Royal Affair in Hyderabad - The wedding of Nabil-Fareed Alikhan to Sanya Ansari in Hyderabad. Pictured above on left is Sanchak ceremony and on right Manje night. Full details of the wedding can be located on page 16.

22 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014

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Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014 — 23

Who, What, Where, When

• The Lord Mayor Graham Quirk cuts the second anniversary cake for Sunnybank Chamber of Commerce.

• Lord Mayor Graham Quirk with Sunnybank Chamber of Commerce President Rona Zhang (pictured right side of Lord Mayor) at SCC second anniversary celebrations at Michaels Oriental Restaurant and Function Centre.

• Priyanka & Rajesh Sharma at the opening of their brand new Indian Mehfil branch in Brisbane CBD. The opening was attended by local Councillors, community leaders and Ipswich City Council workers.

• Magician Matt Hollywood selected Umesh Chandra from the audience to participate in his segmant at Rotary Fun night. Full details of the event can be located on page 8.

• Usha Chandra and Freya Ostapovitch MP - Member for Stretton at Sunnybank Chamber of Commerce second anniversary celebrations.

• Umesh Chandra addressing the players and spectators during the trophy presentation at Meena Ram Saini Cricket Carnival in Khetri. Pictured right of Mr Chandra is Ram Jattan of London.

• Ram Jattan of London with Umesh Chandra presenting trophies to the winning team and man of the match at the cricket carnival.

• Right: Usha Chandra receives shawl of honour at Kavi Samellan.

24 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014

• Sawmi Ji from Vedanta Centre as chief guest with organisers of Kavi Samellan.

Full report is located on page 16. www.indiantimes.com.au

Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014 — 25

Journey into exhile

By Vijendra Kumar THE twin military coups of 1987 _ the first on May 14 and the second on September 25 _ executed by Colonel Sitiveni Rabuka saw an exodus of some of Fiji’s best brains in quest of safer and more welcoming havens in foreign lands. Among those departing Fiji’s shores was educationist and high school principal, Bhim Singh, who has just published an autobiography titled A Fractured Journey: Memoirs of a Fiji Indian. It has all the hallmarks of a literary masterpiece as it is meticulously researched, finely crafted and elegantly written.

Now living and teaching in Toronto, Canada, he reflects on the 1987 events and how they ruptured and shattered the lives and dreams of an entire community. ”It was heartbreaking to note that the nation, passing through the prism of the (first) coup, exited from it disintegrated into ugly, ethnically-divided fragments. The alchemy of the coup poisoned the goodwill of a credulous people,” he writes.

But it was the second coup that tipped the balance for many. It unleashed waves of terror, violence, arson, looting and anarchy when rampant lawlessness saw the gates of Suva Prison being deliberately opened to let loose criminals to intimidate and terrorise civilians. “I felt mere anarchy had been loosed on my country. This was the most heartbreaking period of my life,” he writes.”I saw no future for my children and began seriously thinking of undertaking my journey into exile to another land.”

But as a dedicated teacher, he stayed on to see the school year end so that his students at Cuvu Secondary School were not deprived of their education at a critical time in their life. Bhim Singh and his family finally left for Canada on December 6, 1987.

The author’s journey through life began as a child in a large family engaged in canefarming in Koronubu near Ba. He paints a graphic picture of rural life in a happy environment and recalls with nostalgia his boyhood and school life. Endowed with special gifts, he excelled at school and was one of the few from the village school to proceed to high school in Ba and then to Nadi where he sat and passed his Senior Cambridge exam in the top grade.

Next, he took up temporary teaching before being selected for dentistry at the Fiji School of Medicine.

After a brief spell there, he was off to study in India on a scholarship where he again excelled and returned home to Fiji armed with an Honours Masters degree to enter the teaching profession. He obtained further qualifications from Fiji, New Zealand and Australian institutions.

While the main focus of his narrative is on Fiji and the momentous events that have shaped its development over the past 140 years, the author ranges far and wide as he casts an inquisitive and critical eye on linkages between his home country and other parts of the world. These include the transplanting of Indian labourers into Fiji under

• Bhim Singh…heartbreaking events.

the infamous indenture system. He examines the role of Australia in the indenture saga and the economic life of the country and that of Britain, the dominant colonial power of the time.

During his travels, he visited the Indian Ocean island state of Mauritius, like Fiji a former British Crown colony, where Britain first experimented with the indenture system and perfected it to introduce the system to Fiji and the West Indies. “My attention was naturally focused on the similarities between Mauritius and Fiji. If the Atlas was the first immigrant ship to take the labourers (from India) to Mauritius in 1834, the Leonidas was the first ship to take them to Fiji in 1879,” he writes.

The British Parliament abolished slavery throughout the empire in 1833 after a crusade led by human rights activists like William Wilberforce and other leaders. But under pressure from colonists and commercial companies in Britain’s colonies, colonial governments came up with the idea of a lesser version of slavery _ the indentured labour system _ to sustain their sugar industries. It is ironic that such a sweet commodity caused so much bitterness and suffering for indentured labourers.

The author found the difference between modern Mauritius and Fiji today, both sugar-producing multi-cultural societies, stark: the former is a prosperous and stable democracy and Fiji, once equally prosperous, has lived through turbulent times and been racked by four coups in the past 20 years.

For today’s migrants, seeking a better life in the First World countries like Canada can be difficult. After arriving in Toronto, the author came across unexpected problems.

“I found myself in a fend-for-yourself, sink-or-swim situation. I had no help to find my way through the layers of newcomer-unfriendly bureaucracies…prejudice and discrimination still rear their ugly heads covertly in employment and other areas.”

Under Canadian law, discrimination of any kind is banned but in reality migrants from non-White countries come across it quite frequently. Asians and Coloured people are targeted as “Pakis” or labelled with other derogatory terms and told to “go back where you came from”.

For most migrants, the yearning for the home country can be irresistible. So it has been for the author: he has visited Fiji thrice. Each time he returned to Toronto sad and disillusioned because he saw little progress either in reconciliation or restoration of democracy .He felt deflated when a virtual nonentity, George Speight, and his cohorts led a brutal assault on Parliament House on 19 May, 2000, seized, tortured and imprisoned Government ministers and parliamentarians and held them captive for nearly three months. This insurrection, which claimed several lives, was thankfully put down by Commodore Frank Bainimarama, the head of the armed forces.

The author’s latest visit in October 2011 gave him hope: “I was glad to see that my motherland had gone miles to improve ethnic relations by removing her ‘blinkered ethnic vision’ by becoming open and inclusive in treating her former citizens equally without fear,” he writes.

He finds comfort in these words of Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama: “We believe in a Fiji that respects and cherishes all the strands of its many cultures, traditions and histories. We argue that a common and equal citizenry is the only foundation upon which a modern, democratic Fiji can rest. And we commit ourselves to leaving behind a better Fiji for our children.”

Bhim Singh’s journey is one of self-enlightenment and discovery. He is a keen observer, learner and commentator. He emerges as a highly sensitive person with a deep and abiding love for Fiji. He is passionate about it and the book is interspersed with panegyric poems. He is obviously an equally gifted poet as he is a prose writer.

Unfortunately, several of his poems are in Hindi with the dubious benefit of English alphabet. Not only is it difficult to read them but non-Hindi speakers will get no joy out of them. Translation into English might have been too onerous a task but these gems should be there for all to enjoy.

Reviewed by VIJENDRA KUMAR - Vijendra previously worked as Cheif Editor, Fiji Times.

A Fractured Journey will be on sale in Fij shortly.

Meanwhile, it is available by contacting bh_singh@yahoo.com at a cost of $C25 including postage.

Why use a mortgage broker?

The great Indian middle class

IT can be a mammoth task ing your repayments. to review and assess the Long-term planning is loan types, rates and just as important as getlenders on offer, so it’s ting a great loan. Brokers hardly surprising that are concerned about findmore than 40% of home ing the right loan to meet loans in Australia are now your needs now and into arranged through a mortthe future – finding one gage broker. that’s going to be best Mortgage Broker works Gagan Tandon suited. for you – not the lender.

Brokers will help you It’s their role to explain all the complete the loan application loan features and details, and form and professionally package ensure the structure of your loan your application with all the supis right for your situation. porting evidence. They will then With access to a huge range of lodge it, generally electronically, products from a panel of multiple with your chosen lender and manlenders, Brokers usually has all age the entire application process the information needed at his fin- right through to settlement. gertips to tailor a home loan soluBrokers help you with any question to your needs. He can help tions during the whole process you understand the deals on offer, and simplify loan process for you. and explain the features and They do all the running around details that can make a big differ- for you, as well as liaise with the ence to your repayments. lender so you save time and Banks insist on strong and well- money. presented home loan applications, Smartline Adviser Gagan so the advice and guidance of a Tandon says “At Smartline we’re Mortgage Broker can be invalu- up-to-speed with the ever-changable. ing rules lenders use to assess After discussing your situation, loan applications, and we not only Broker will use specialised soft- know where to find great home ware to identify a selection of loan deals but also which lender suitable loans. It’s a quick and will accommodate your unique easy process. Broker will then personal circumstances,”. help you compare loans to find For more information call the one that will suit your needs. Smartline’s Gagan Tandon He/she will explain all the fea- today on 0425 158 280 or email tures, benefits and costs – includ- to gtandon@smartline.com.au.

AS political parties get battle ready for the 2014 Indian general elections, the great Indian middle class is again in the focus. Every political party wants the biggest share of this vote bank, whose tilt can decide who will form the next government at the Centre. India’s middle class will hit 250 million or 20 per cent of the country’s population in 2015, according to McKinsey and Company.

Large populations and rapid economic growth mean China and India will become the powerhouses of middle class consumerism over the next two decades.

India’s global middle class, meanwhile, at around 50 million people, or 5% of the population, is much smaller. We expect this to grow steadily over the next decade, reaching 200 million by 2020.

The Indian economy rapidly decelerated over the past few years to an annual growth of 4-5 percent — compared with the 8-9 percent growth in the preceding years — amid the global slowdown and the country’s own twin deficits. Still, political stability and economic reforms will likely continue even if the 2014 general election should result in the first change of government in a decade.

With its young demographic pattern, India has a huge population in the 25-35 age bracket, and typical consumers in this group are ready to pay a price for good technology. They have large disposable income. …

They may be earning more salary than the amount their fathers were getting when they retired from service 10 years ago. Five or six years back, nobody could have thought of buying a cellphone for 50,000 rupees. Now people of my age group across gender are buying iPhone, Samsung etc.

They’re not thinking twice as soon as the products arrive in the market, and are ready to pay for more technologically advanced products. This spending pattern has been the same across sectors — cars, mobile phones, personal computers, tablets and everything.

The middle class is growing by leaps and bounds and that is really the market global companies should look at. It’s not limited only to big cities but now tier-two

26 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014

From Dhaval Vyas Ahmedabad, India

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cities and that’s where special marketing effort is required. Purchasing power is growing. Every year 1 percent of the population goes above the poverty line, and that will tell you how dynamic the Indian society is.

By its estimates, the country’s middle class will be 583 million strong by 2025, making India the world’s fifth-largest consumer market. By more optimistic projections, India will have more than a billion middleclass citizens by 2025 — that is about two-thirds of its estimated 2025 population.

The fate of the middle class and that of the Indian economy are in lockstep: the hope is that their rising incomes will fuel consumption, which will drive demand and productivity, leading to more employment and a further rise in incomes, including in that of the poor.

India’s middle class is more conservative than that of other Asian countries. It has relatively fewer loans outstanding and owns less in the way of tangible goods.

But education is still the top priority among families, with 43% wanting their children to get a masters degree.

The size of the average middle-class family is 4.3 people. An estimated 100% of households have televisions, 91% have mobile phones and 19% own fourwheel vehicles. Half the households experienced growing incomes in the past 12 months, of which one-third enjoyed a rise in excess of 20%. The statistics are a reflection of India’s strong growth–the economy expanded 9.4% for the fiscal year ending in March.

Because the middle class plans investments across sectors, there’s good news for industry generally. In a risk-averse social stratum, for which real property accounts for 51% of wealth, real estate will also see continued investment. The sector grew at around 30% for the past year.

India’s middle class is still financially risk averse as well, as indicated by the statistics that 84% have not taken out any loans and only 11% have invested in equities. But the report finds that is changing as incomes rise. Consumer credit has grown at a compounded annual rate of 33% since 2002, as the propensity to borrow rises.

Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014 — 27

Attractive ‘rainbow’ delights of Chiang Rai Province

By Rama Gaind A QUOTE by Charles Chaplin made perfect sense as I gazed across the sweeping rugged terrain across three countries of south-east Asia: “You’ll never find a rainbow if you’re looking down”.

Reflecting on the history of this region, it was a case of looking up and across more than 950,000 square kilometres that overlaps the mountains of Thailand, Myanmar (Burma) and Laos. Now mainly a tourist attraction, this was formerly the opiumgrowing region of northern Thailand, eastern Burma (Myanmar) and western Laos.

The enigmatic crossroads is in Chiang Rai Province and the locals call it Sop Ruak, as this is where the Mekong River meets the Ruak River.

The hilly landscape, divided by the Ruak River that flows into the Mekong (Mae Khong) River, forms a natural boundary between Thailand (to the west of the Mae Khong), Laos (to the east of the Mekong) and Myanmar (to the north of the Ruak).

A yearning to know more directs you to the Hall of Opium, Golden Triangle Park, about an hour from Chiangrai. The museum is incorporated within the 40-hectare landscape of the Golden Triangle Park and is another Royal Project – one of three in the region – and is the result of the initiative of the Mae Fah Luang Foundation.

Once inside you stand in awe, making your way through the complex that’s akin to a theme park, complete with ostentatious multimedia exhibits and lots of clever, but intimidating messaging about the evils of addiction.

The exhibits explain the history of opium in the area, and from around the world, the process of production, the effects of opium smoking and campaigns to eradicate and substitute the crop. It is staggering to learn that there are 250 species of poppies!

• Le Méridien Chiangrai Resort occupies an idyllic site on the banks of the Mae Kok River, with stunning views over verdant gardens.

• Rachen Phool, with his daughter Avitra, 10, and wife Sujata outside their store named ‘Rama’ in the Central markets in Chiangrai.

The shop has been in the family for 60 years.

(Photo: Rama Gaind)

In the Hall of Reflection, you get to know that Benjamin Franklin was addicted to opium; and how drugs affected many others including celebrities such as Elvis Presley, Billie Holiday, John Belushi, Kurt Cobain, River Phoenix, Eric Clapton, Robert

Nimmi Upra with her two-year-old adopted son, Nooyim, at her store in the Central markets in Chiangrai. (Photo: Rama Gaind)

Downey Jr., Diego Maradona and many, many more.

It’s an emotional visit with sentiments summed up perfectly by this prophetic Buddhist proverb: “He who conquers many thousand men in battle is not the noblest victor. But he who conquers himself is, indeed, the noblest victor”.

Idyllic Méridien resort Chiangrai, which offers exotic cultures, pristine nature and picturesque charm of lush green mountains, is also home to several masterpieces created by famous local visionaries including Ajarn Thawan Duchanee’s Ban Darn (The Black House), Ajarn Chalermchai Kosipipat’s Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) and Ajarn Somluk Pantiboon’s Doi Din Daeng Pottery (The Red Clay Hill Pottery).

You should also grab bargains by visiting the Central and night markets and the Thong Tavee Jade factory where you not only see the raw stones, but also the five steps from selecting, cutting, shaping, carving and polishing.

As you partake of this voyage of discovery, stay at the Le Méridien Chiangrai Resort that occupies an idyllic site on the banks of the Mae Kok River, with stunning views looking out across the verdant gardens.

The surrounds are picture-perfect: ancient ruins, the backdrop of rice paddies, forestcovered mountains and shining temple spires are sketched from a palette of gold, green and mahogany are all a vision of beauty.

It was while contemplating the serene luxury of the backdrop that I heard a Bollywood chart-topping song – a beautiful romantic song Piya O Re Piya (Main Waari Jaavan) – and it was music to my ears!

Nostalgia reigned supreme, standing in the hotel lobby, listening to the strains of this Indian pop song sung by Atif Aslam and Shreya Goshal from the romantic comedy directed by Mandeep Kumar titled Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya (I’m in Love with You).

It was a surreal feeling, but I felt right at home!

Rama Gaind travelled as a guest of the Tourism Authority of Thailand & Absolutely Fantastic Holidays.

When Media becomes a threat to democracy: Controls essential to stop loose media cannons in Fiji Thakur Ranjit Singh WHAT we learn from History is that we do not learn from History. Action taken by Fiji Media Industry Development Authority (MIDA) on Ratu Timoci Vesikula’s reported “hate-speech” and punishment meted

by MIDA need to be viewed from a Historical rationale and perspective. We need to appreciate how a Western type free and partisan media in the past contributed to fall of democracy and Fiji’s political instability.

Any democracy that does not grant equality, fairness and social justice to all its citizens is not worth defending – that is what I proclaimed in a seminar held in Auckland in the aftermath of Bainimarama takeover of Qarase government in December, 2006. I have held that view since, and feel honoured to be branded supporter of Bainimarama.

The latest one to do that is Wadan Narsey, who named me as a cheerleader of Bainimarama. Response to that later, but he has been critical of the decision of Fiji Media Industry Development Authority (MIDA), and its Chairperson, Ashwin Raj. MIDA has slated and punished FIJI TV for breaching strict laws that have been put in place subsequent to past upheavals where media have been seen indulging in mischiefmaking. I know this - as a former publisher of Daily Post, I was removed by Qarase for being too nosey. I have conducted a research on Fiji media. Perhaps Wadan needs to have a read of that thesis and appreciate how a partisan media can be a threat to democracy.

[Electronic version available at: http://aut.researchgateway.ac.nz/ handle/10292/2554] Perhaps this illustration will help bring to reality those who think the Western concept of media freedom is some religious mantra essential for Fiji: “Nationalists plan protest march NATIONALISTS around the country are ready to support their leaders and plans to overthrow the government.

The statement promised a blood pledge in honour of Fijian ancestors to: * Overthrow the Chaudhry Government * Establish a 100 per cent vanua based Fijian

parliament and ban any non-indigenous person from parliament. * Declare Fiji a Christian state * Establish a programme of Fijianisation in education, business and the economy.

Mr Butadroka fuelled the crowd’s enthusiasm with remarks aimed at the Indian race.” (My emphasis) This journalistic miracle appeared in The Fiji Times on 22 May, 1999 - three days after Chaudhry’s Peoples Coalition Government was sworn in. It was reported by an I-Taukei journalist, Dionesia Tabureguci, and must have passed along the great legends at the Fiji Times that time, Editor, Samisoni Kakaivalu, Editor- in-Chief Russell Hunter; and Netani Rika and Margaret Wise may also have been around in the newsroom. My research and thesis which was a partial fulfilment of the requirements for degree of Masters in Communications Studies (MCS) at Auckland University of Technology’s (AUT’s) Journalism School showed some starling results. Media, as the fourth estate, is supposed to be the last bastion of democracy.

However, in case of Fiji, ironically, the most influential press, Rupert Murdock’s The Fiji Times, appear to have contributed to the fall of democracy, and we are paying the price for it now.

One year rule of People’s Coalition Government was led by an Indo-Fijian Prime Minister, Mahendra Chaudhry between May 19, 1999 and May 19, 2000 when Speight’s putsch – attempt to overthrow a democratically-elected government took place. During that period, sensational headlines in The Fiji Times, penned by I-Taukei journalist screamed aloud: Rabuka warns on race bomb, Chiefs warn on Bills, Threats on MPs, State under fire, NLTB boss warns Chaudhry, Church leader warns Chaudhry, Chief’s paper wants to oust Chaudhry, Landowners take over school, PM under fire, PM should quit, says Rewa MP, Taukei workers threaten action, Holy land, Stand up, Qarikau urges Ra, Landowners shut offices, Taukei vow to remove PM, Chief warns of war, Eviction time, Racist group in land talks, Tora warns Chaudhry, Bau chiefs warn Chaudhry, Closure threat on airport, Adi Senimili warns Chaudhry.......and so on shocking display of

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sensational and divisive reporting.

It appears that in one year, every form of a Fijian leader warned and threatened Fiji’s Prime Minister, just because he happened to be an “Indian”. The Fiji Times and freedom of press gave ample opportunity for hatred and sensation to be amplified throughout the nation by the largest and most influential newspaper.

During that time, new groups of militant and nationalist make-shift organisations sprang up overnight to oppose government’s initiative.

Their little known leaders with suspect following were given undeserved exposure by the press under the guise of media freedom despite such utterances bordering on sedition and hate-speeches. These were also in clear breach of Media Code of Conduct, and out of reach of self-regulatory and hardly effective toothless tiger, Fiji Media Council.

Media in general and The Fiji Times in particular provided ample opportunity for anybody who wished to take a pot-shot at the highest seat of the country- the President and the Prime Minister. A responsible media, especially in a developing country, divided on racial lines would be expected to exercise caution in allowing such dereliction of ethics and duties to allow such show of disrespect to the leaders of a developing nation under the guise of media freedom.

In a multiracial developing country where the makeup of the newsroom does not reflect the population of the country, we can have very partisan reporting. The Fiji Times, with a majority I-Taukei gatekeepers and news reporters fell in that category. I suppose FIJI TV also falls in that category now. In my research, it showed that those writing sensational and “negative” articles on Indo-Fijians and Chaudhry government were I-Taukei, who comprised over seventy-five percent or three quarters of those penning those news items that showed by lines.

Media researchers have established that journalists’ race and own political views crept into newsrooms. Politics in Fiji is so often mixed with issues like culture loyalties that it could become difficult for reporters to maintain impartiality and direction, especially if they come from same racial and cultural groups as those reported on. In a country like Fiji bat-

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tling with racial issues, environmental factors encourage an atmosphere of ethnocentrism and racial feelings within journalism.

While research already shows dereliction of duties of print media, no research appears to have been done for TV in general and FIJI TV in particular. However its ownership and gatekeeper profile, points to something to be worried about. Therefore, it was timely for MIDA to pull it up, bring into notice, nip in the bud and even punish it for the irresponsible and sensational reporting camouflaged as news item.

It is nonsensical to say that items said in vernacular and directly translated did not carry hate-speech. More than the spoken words, the tone, the body language, hidden idioms and mannerism of mother tongue may speak a lot more than the English translated version. If MIDA or a similar regulatory body with initiative, teeth, interest in national welfare and national development existed in 1999/2000 when media became a threat to democracy in Fiji, perhaps Fiji may have seen a more stable politics. That is why media schools in Fiji have to appreciate understand and value the concept of Development Journalism, more popular and socially and economically beneficial in multi-racial Developing nations. (That, maybe later, or perhaps Media Maestro Mark Edge can add his Canadian bit) Fiji is not ready for the Western type of cutand–paste democracy. Neither is it ready for the Western concept of First World unfettered and uncontrolled media freedom.

Western Democracy and Western Media Freedom concepts have failed Fiji in the past.

We need home-grown solutions for both, and Fiji’s move in this direction needs better appreciation through an informed historical perspective and understanding of rationale for such decisions.

[E-mail: thakurji@xtra.co.nz] [Thakur Ranjit Singh is a media commentator and post graduate scholar in communication studies from Auckland University of Technology (AUT).

Electronic link of his research thesis on Fiji media is available on: http://aut.researchgateway.ac.nz/ handle/10292/2554. He runs his blog site FIJI PUNDIT at: www.fijipundit.blogspot.co.nz] Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

Sultanul Hind Khwaja Ghareebun Nawaz Mueenuddin Hasan Chishty Rahmatullaahi Alaiy

By ML. Nawaaz Ashrafi HAZRAT Khwaja Moinuddin Hasan Chishty (R.A.) popularly known as Khwaja Gharib Nawaz (R.A.), “The founder of Chishty Order of Sufis” in India was born in 1142 A.D. in Sijistan (Iran). His paternal genealogy is related to Hazrat Imam Hussain (A.S.) and that of his maternal to Hazrat Imam Hassan (A.S.) and thus he is a direct descendant of Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (S.A.W.).

His father, Sayyid Ghiyas-u’d-din, a pious man of some means, died when his son was in his teens.

He left as legacy an orchard and a grinding mill.

Once Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Hassan Chishty (R.A) was looking after the plants in his garden that a mystic, Shaikh Ibrahim Qanduzi, happened to pass by. Shaikh Mu’in-u’d-din entertained him in his garden. Hagiologists trace the germination of mystic attitude in him to the blessings of this Saint.

In fact, the most powerful factor in giving a mystic touch to his personality at this early stage was the condition of Sijistan which had suffered terribly at the hands of the Qara Khita and the Ghuzz Turks.

It drove the Khwaja’s mind inwards and he realized the futility of hankering after worldly glory or looking after worldly goods. He sold all his assets, gave the proceeds in charity and took to itineracy. He visited the eminent scholars of his age. While on his way to Iraq, he passed through Harvan, in the district of Naishapur. Here he met Khwaja ‘Usman Harwani’ and was so deeply impressed by his spiritual eminence that he decided to join the circle of his disciples. For twenty years he accompanied him on his arduous mystic journeys and performed all sorts of personal services to him. Shaikh Mu’in’ddin once told his disciples. “I did not give myself a moment’s rest from the service of my Peer-oMurshid, and carried about his night clothes during his journeys and stoppages”.

Haj and Prophet’s saw command: As the great Khwaja become accomplished and perfect in every respect, the divine tutor (Hazrat Khwaja Usman Harwani (R.A.)) honored him with his robe and took him to Haj. Both then proceeded to Makkah and performed the Haj, and then went to Madina and stayed there for some time, to get the blessings of Prophet Hazrat Mohammad (S.A.W.) One night in a trance he was ordered by the Holy Prophet Hazrat Mohammad (S.A.W.) “O Moinuddin! You are a prop of our faith.

Proceed to India and show the path of truth to the people there.

That is why he is known as Ataye Rasul/Naib-eRasul.” (Lieutenant of Prophet Mohammad (S.A.W.) Later he undertook independent journeys and came

into contact with eminent Saints and scholars like Shaikh Najm-u’d-din Kubra, Shaikh Najib-u’d-din ‘Abdul Qahir Suhrawardi, Shaikh Abu Sa’id Tabrizi, Shaikh Mahmud Ispahani, Shaikh Nasiru’d-din Astarabadi and Shaikh ‘Abdul Wahid – all of whom were destined to exercise great influence on contemporary religious life and thought. He visited nearly all the great centers of learning in those days – Samarqand, Bukhara, Baghdad, Naishapur, Tabriz, Aush, Ispahan, Sabzawar, Mihna, Khirqan, Astarabd, Balkh and Ghaznin and aquainted himself with almost every important trend in Muslim religious life in the middle ages. His moral and spiritual qualities attracted many people to his fold and he appointed his Khalifas in Sabzwar and Balkh. Shaikh Auhad-u’d-din Kirmani, Shaikh Shihab-u’d-din Suhrawardi and many other eminent mystics benefited by his company. Having thus roamed all over the Muslim lands which had not yet recovered from the terrible shocks of Qara Khitai and Ghuzz invasions and were to be ravaged very soon by the Mongols, he turned towards India.

After a brief stay at Lahore, where he meditated at the Shrine of one of the prominent Sufi, Shaikh Ali Hajweri, he proceeded to Ajmer. Khwaja Gharib Nawaz composed a couplet paying a glowing tribute to Shaikh Hajweri: “Ganj Bakhsh-e-Har Do Alam Mazhar-e-Noor-e-Khuda, Na Qisan Ra Peer-e-Kamil, Kamilan Ra Peshwa” Translation: He is a wealth bestowing Saint in this world and hereafter and an embodiment of divine light.

Urs Mubarak of Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Hasan Chishty (radiAllah anhu): Urs of Khwaja Gharib Nawaz (R.A.) is celebrated every year in the first week of Rajab, on seeing the moon of Rajab, the seventh month of the Islamic calendar, drums are beaten to herald the commencement of the annual ceremony. The permanent Chauki (troupe) of qawwals arrive, and after Maghrib (sunset prayers) sit infront of the Shrine and sing the following verses: “Bartui mehfil - shahana - mubarak -bashad, Saqia-badao-paimana mubarak bashad “Bartui mehfil-shahana-mubarak-bashad Saqia-badao-paimana mubarak bashad” A complete spiritual guide for the imperfect disciples and a leader of the perfect Saints.

He adopted the Indian tradition and culture, seeing the inclination of Indians towards Music and singing he introduced Qawwali (Sama) to convey his message.

Huzoor Gharib Nawaz (R.A.) breathed his last; after achieving the command given to him by the Holy Prophet (S.A.W.). His noble soul left the corporeal body on the 6th of Rajab 633 A.H./ 16th March 1236 at the age of 97. He was buried in the same prayer room (Hujra)which was the center of his divine activities, throughout his stay at Ajmer.

Today his Shrine is popularly known as “Dargah

Sharif of Huzoor Gharib Nawaz (R.A.)”. People of all walks of life and faith from all over the world, irrespective of their caste, creed and beliefs visit this great Shrine to offer flowers, Chaddar and Itar of their esteem and devotion. The rich and the poor stand side by side to pay their homage and respect to the divine soul and to acquire the peace of mind & soul to get the blessings of Huzoor Gharib Nawaz (R.A.) Ajmer was not merely the seat of Chauhan power; it was a religious center also where thousands of pilgrims assembled from far and near Shaikh Mu’in-u’d-din’s determination to work out the principles of Islamic mysticism at a place of such political and religious significance shows great self-confidence.

Gharib Nawaz was the exponent of the true spirit of Islam. Like orthodox and static theologians he did not engage himself in vain metaphysics but rigorously strove to save human sympathy from running into narrow grooves and struck at the very root of parochialism, casteism and religious exclusiveness which are being propagated by some vested interests. According to Gharib Nawaz the religion is not merely based on rituals and ecclesiastical formalities but “service of humanity” is its sole reason. Describing the qualities which endear a man to God, Gharib Nawaz referred to the following attributes: AWWAL SAKHAWATE CHUN SAKHAWATE DARIYA, DOM SHAFQAT-ECHUN SHAFQAT-E-AFTAB, SIWAM TAWAZOE-CHUN TAWAZO-E-ZAMEEN. (First, river like generosity; second, sun-like affection, and third earth like hospitality.) When once asked about the highest devotion of God, Gharib Nawaz remarked that it was nothing but “Dar mandgaan ra fariyad raseedan wa haajat-ebaichaargaan ra rawa kardan wa gursingaan ra sair gardaneedan” i.e. to redress the misery of those in distress, to fulfil the needs of the helpless and to feed the hungry.

Gharib Nawaz loved humanity in general and the Indians in particular. Indeed he had a mission to bring a social and spiritual revolution.

He ruled over the hearts. The concepts of national integration, composite culture (Ganga-Jamni Tehzeeb) originated from his life style and teachings and thereafter were spread by his representative disciples.

Perhaps in no other country were the effects of this social and cultural revolution so marked and so far reaching as in India. Sufism (Islamic mysticism) reached India when it had entered the last and the most important phase of its history the organisation of Sufistic structure of Islam having various denominations, especially Chishtiya, Qadriya, Naqshbandia, and Suharwardia. Among these denominations the Chishtiya order has been supremely successful on all levels of pluralistic society of India based on cultural, religious, and

social differences.

Urs Mubarak of Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Hasan Chishty (radiAllah anhu): Urs of Khwaja Gharib Nawaz (R.A.) is celebrated every year in the first week of Rajab, on seeing the moon of Rajab, the seventh month of the Islamic calendar, drums are beaten to herald the commencement of the annual ceremony. The permanent Chauki (troupe) of qawwals arrive, and after Maghrib (sunset prayers) sit infront of the Shrine and sing the following verses: “Bartui mehfil-shahana-mubarak-bashad Saqia-badao-paimana mubarak bashad” (Felicitation to thee for this blessed and majestic assembly; salutation, ‘Oh Saqi for your bountiful goblet of sacred wine).

And, “Ilahi ta-abd-astana-i-yar-rahe Yeh-asra-hai-gharibon-ka-barqarar rahe” (Oh God, may this Shrine of the beloved exist till the last day, may this refuge of the poor remain forever!)

The word Urs has been derived from “UROOS” which means “ultimate meeting of an individual with God” it is said that Huzoor Gharib Nawaz (R.A.) spent last six days of his life in Seclusion in a cell and the 6th day of Rajab, his noble soul left the corporeal body. Every year Urs Mubarak is celebrated on his death anniversary in the Islamic month of Rajab.

Although Urs held for the first six days of Rajab.

Yet the 6th day is regarded to be the most special and auspicious. It is called “Chati Sharif”. It is celebrated on the 6th Rajab between 10:00 A.M. to 1:30 P.M. Inside the Mazar Sharif. Shijra is read by Khadiman-e-Khwaja then Fariyad (Prayers) start for people present at the Dargah and for the country and its people for the peace and prosperity and also those who are not present but have sent Nazaro-Niyaz to the Khadims to mark their presence for their welfare and for the promotion of brotherhood amongst them. Khadiman-e-Khwaja tie small turbans on each others head and present Nazar (offerings in cash).

Just before the Qu’l (conclusion of 6th Rajab Chhati Sharif) Bhadawa is sung at the main entrance of the Shrine by Qwwals which literally means a poem or verses in praise of Allah, His Holy Prophet (S.A.W.) or famous Sufis (Auliyas).

Badahwa is the only recitation which is accompanied by talis (clapping) only, and no other instrument is played. It was composed by Hazrat Syed Behlol Chishty, one of the ancestor of Khadims who again refers to Khwaja Moinuddin Chishty (R.A) as Khwaja Hasan Dan. After its recitation, the ceremony of the Qul comes to an end and Fatiha is recited. The ceremony is marked closed by firing a cannon at 1:30 P.M. in afternoon.

AL-MI’RAJ - The Glorious Invitation

By Maulana Mohammed Nawaaz Ashrafi All Praise is due to Alláh, We praise Him and we seek help from Him. We ask forgiveness from Him. We repent to Him; and we seek refuge in Him from our own evils and our own bad deeds.

Anyone who is guided by Alláh, he is indeed guided; and anyone who has been left astray, will find no one to guide him. I bear witness that there is no god but Alláh, the Only One without any partner; and I bear witness that Muhammad, sws, is His servant, and His messenger.

Some people believe that the Isra’ and Mi’raj occurred on the 27th Rajab. Others disagree about the date, saying no one knows for certain. Allah knows best. But no Muslim disagrees about the essence of Prophet Muhammad’s Isra’’ and Mi’raj: his Mystical Night Journey and his Ascension into the Heavenly Spheres. May Allah’s peace and mercy and blessings be ever upon our Nabi Muhammad Sallallaahu alaihi Wa Sallam.. The Holy Quran alludes to this momentous occasion in the first verse of Sura Bani Isra-eel: “Bismillaahir Rahmaanir Raheem! Sub’haanal lathee Asraa bi-ab’dihee laylam-minal Masjidil haraami ilal Masjidil Aq’saa, al-lathee baarak-naa hawlahoo linuriyahoo min aayaatinaa. Innahoo huwas Samee-;ul Baseer!”

“Glory to [Allah] Who did take His Servant on a journey by night from the Sacred Mosque to the Farthest Mosque, whose precincts We sanctified; in order that We might show him some of Our Signs: for Allah is He who hears and sees everything.”

This momentous event occurred more than 14 centuries ago. Then, as now, it aroused the sceptics and cynics to dismiss it as a fantasy, as a delusion.

How can someone travel millions of miles in one night, claiming to have travelled through the heavens to the throne of God? Then, as now, the true Believers have the same answer: He Who created the heavens and the earth out of nothing can do whatever He pleases. He can part the oceans to save the followers of Moses. He can drown Pharaoh in that same ocean. He can flood the world while saving Noah in the Ark. He can turn to the roaring flames that are licking at the feet of Prophet Abraham, and decree: “Fire, be cool!”

And, Abraham can walk out of the fire with no burns. Allah can change the properties and behaviour of any part of His creation. He is not enslaved by the natural laws that He, Himself, wrote. He’s the Author. He can edit them as and when He pleases.

A man was once asked, can Allah pass a camel through the eye of a needle? He answered: Not only can Allah pass a camel through the eye of a needle; if He decided to put the whole dunya, the

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whole earth through the eye of a needle that’s easy for Him. He says: Kun, faya koon! … Be! And it is!

Centuries ago, this might have seemed fanciful.

But nowadays, every physicist and scientist accepts that if the universe began with a big bang 14 billion years ago, then all matter and energy, all time and space must have been extremely dense, and concentrated within an incredibly small area, smaller than the head of a pin, and certainly, smaller than the eye of a needle. Today every selfrespecting scientist believes that. But many of them hesitate to go one step further. Who created the Big Bang? Was it spontaneous? Did time and space all begin by accident? So many scientists have difficulty in taking that crucial next step. That is, to accept that this big bang did not just happen by chance. Everything follows the Will of Allah.

When Allah decrees a thing, He only has to say, Kun! Faya koon! …. Be! And it is! Sub’haanalLaah!

In this short article, we will briefly look at 3 points: 1. The narrative of the Isra and Mi’raj 2. The significance of Mi’raj 3. The Gift of the Mi’raj.

The narrative is well known: it has a horizontal aspect and a vertical aspect. The horizontal aspect is the journey itself, from Makkah to Jerusalem and back, in one night. The vertical aspect is the Ascension from Jerusalem to the heavens into the very presence of Allah, the Glorified and Exalted.

We are told that one night, the Prophet Muhammad sws was asleep near the Kaaba,or in the house of his cousin, when the archangel Jibreel [Gabriel](as) awoke him, washed his heart and placed him on Buraaq, a mystical winged horse.

Buraaq could travel from horizon to horizon in one leap. Accompanied by Gabriel, they rode to Jerusalem, and he led all the other Prophets in prayer, and from there they travelled upward through the seven heavens, meeting and greeting all the earlier Prophets along the way, until Gabriel stopped by ‘the lote tree of the furthest extremity, the utmost boundary’ Sidratul Muntahaa. Here he left Prophet Muhammad sws because not even angels could go further than this point. This is where Prophet Muhammad sws proceeded on his own until he was, as the Quran says, “Qaba qawsain,” two bows-length from Allah. [Let us remember that words are so inadequate. We are trying here to describe what is infinitely beyond description, beyond our strongest imaginings] The Holy Quran simply uses an evocative description: “His vision did not waver, nor did the eyes deny what they saw…” This was the absolute nearest any human being has ever come to the Divine. Allah the Glorified and Exalted, and Prophet

Muhammad, peace and blessings on him, alone at last, face to face. No interlocutors, no distractions.

Creator and created, indeed, the best of His creation in direct communion. Again in the words of the Holy Quran, Prophet Muhammad sws saw, “of the Signs of His Lord, the Greatest.” [Arabic?]

We are told that Nabi Muhammad sws then descended to earth He returned from his meeting with Allah, carrying this blessed Gift of the Mi’raj, the Prayer, the Salaah, as we know it today. At first he had instructions that Muslims are required to pray 50 times each day. But when Musa Alayhis salaam, Prophet Moses, said that this would be too difficult, Prophet Muhammad sws went back several times till Allah reduced it to 5 times a day.

Again Moses said that 5 daily prayers was too much, people are lazy and rebellious. But Prophet Muhammad sws replied that he was too embarrassed to go back and ask Allah for a further reduction. So there we have it. This gift of the 5 daily prayers, is a direct gift of the Mi’raj, over 14 centuries ago.

Imagine for a moment, what would Islam have been like without the Salaah, without precisely detailed formal prayers. Our faith would have been little more than an academic exercise, something to tickle the intellect; a belief system with some quaint notions about the meaning and purpose of life, but with no pivotal connection between Creator and created. Salaah is what makes Islam more than just a good idea, but a functioning, purposeful relationship between Allah and His servants.

Before the Mi’raj Muslims had no idea as to how and when they should pray. Now we not only know how and when, but also, most importantly, we must remember the reason, the ‘why’ part. Why do we pray? Why 5 times a day? Why not just once?

Salaah is not a human invention. It’s not the product of Prophet Muhammad sws’ imagination. It’s planned and prescribed by Allah Himself. It’s our divinely designed means of communication with God. This is how He wants us to turn to Him, 5 times a day, amidst all our distractions and mundane pursuits of daily life. He does not want us simply to go into seclusion in a temple or monastery to remember Him, once in a while. He wants us to remember Him constantly, in the marketplace, in our offices, in our homes and during our leisure time.

Right there in the midst of life’s distractions, we must keep our spiritual compass. We must maintain our moral integrity. This is the real challenge.

While we are busy enjoying Allah’s blessings, we must never forget to thank Him. Salaah is our formal link with our Creator. It brings our body, mind and soul into complete har-

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mony and submission to Allah. Properly performed, it helps us to cultivate an attitude of gratitude. Our hearts fill with stillness, serenity, sakina, and we develop a yearning to be close to Allah. We long to be in that blissful presence just as our beloved Prophet Muhammad had on the Mi’raj.

Salaah is our own Mi’raj. Perhaps it’s the nearest we’ll ever be to Allah. With heads touching the ground, all limbs pointing towards Makkah, all our thoughts and feelings and desires focussed on Allah, this is the magical moment when we become the connecting-point between time-space and eternity. In prostration, sujood, we humble creatures of dust, when we’ve shut off body, mind and soul to everything else except His Presence, we can become like lightning-rods that connect heaven and earth. In that moment of sheer and absolute surrender, we become truly, Allah’s khaleefah, His vice-regent, on the earth. Brothers and sisters, when we pray properly, as Allah decrees, then great things become possible. Let’s not neglect our prayers. Let’s not rush through them like some necessary but unwelcome habit like we’re brushing our teeth or washing the dishes. Let’s concentrate, meditate and rejuvenate with this wonderful gift of our personal Mi’raj. Let’s pray properly, with meaning and feeling. In Salaah we’re in the grand audience hall of the Lord of the universe. Let’s show him our love, courtesy and respect.

When we Muslims pray, we enjoy a very special relationship with Allah. While others need intermediaries, we need no priest, no rabbi, Archbishop or even a Pope that stands between us and Allah.

We worship Him directly and He answers us directly. Allah says “I listen to the prayer of everyone who calls me. Let them also then, listen to My call, so that they may walk on the straight way.”

Although 70,000 veils separate us from Allah, nothing separates Him from us. He says that He is “closer to us than our jugular veins.” What more do we need in the way of assurances and security?

Without prayer, without regular, intimate contact with Allah, we would be exposed to all kinds of dangers, to body and soul. Prayer, Salaah brings us intimately close to Allah. It brings us in to safety and security. We should never neglect our prayers.

“Surely Allah commands justice, good deeds and generosity to others and to relatives; and He forbids all shameful deeds, and injustice and rebellion: He instructs you, so that you may be reminded.” “and remember Me: I will remember you. Be grateful to Me, and do not reject faith.” “and without doubt, Remembrance of Allah is the Greatest Thing in life, and Allah knows the deeds that you do.”

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014 — 29

Health Beauty Wellbeing

The right focus

DEAR reader, it’s with great joy you don’t learn to be happy we bring you the word of God. where you are you will never get Too many people go through life to where you want to be. But if waiting on things that could you choose to be happy, refuse to make them happier. What they complain and refuse self pity then don’t realise is that the things you are sowing good seeds for they need to be happy is already God to take you where you want with them. Some people are not Pastor Joseph Dass to be in the future. happy because they don’t have John 10v10 reminds us that God the house they want, the money they should wants you to have and enjoy life. Being have, or the profession they should be in. happy is a decision you have to make. It’s Once there was a poor man who used to not going to happen automatically. You can live next to a rich man’s house. Every time choose to be happy. If you are focusing on he saw what the rich man had and what he the things you don’t have, focusing on didn’t have, it made him feel unhappy and what’s wrong with you, then you have to unsatisfied. It’s good to have big dreams, change your focus so you can enjoy your desire to increase, wanting to have more so life. What you have is enough for you to be you could be a blessing to others, but if you happy. Once you begin to be happy with start to compare yourself with others, it what you do have, then you are setting opens the door for the enemy to steal your yourself to receive more so you can still be joy. Comparison is an act of violence happy. against self.

Romans 12v12 says “Be joyful in hope, God bless you patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” If Ps Joseph Dass

The Word…

Dear readers, THANK YOU for joining us on the journey of Inspired Indians to pursue true purpose for your life. Every person on this planet has a unique purpose; all the people must make it as a priority to know their purpose.

Today you can begin explore with me that purpose and lead an inspired life. We are going to look at the meaning of two-letter word called “The Word”.

Here is a simple question with a significant meaning behind it. What is the definition of ‘word’? It is a simple unit of language that functions as a principle carrier of meaning or message. For example the word ‘Danger’ means exposure to harm and message is to be stay away and understand your safety.

So we can see that with one right word at the right place a meaning and a message can be communicated effectively.

If we offer a ‘word’ to someone such as caution, advice or praise we tend to give a message. We also give a ‘word’ to someone friend or a family member offering them a promise. The ‘word’ you give becomes a commitment of your personal authority behind it. Now you have become a ‘word’ to someone who can hold on to what you have promised, even the time may have passed by. But your word is alive to the one who is counting on your honesty and faithfulness.

The most amazing thing happened over 2000 years ago and the book of John echoes Genesis of human history. It is written “In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. He existed in the beginning with God. God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through him.

The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone”. (John 1:1-4 NLT) ‘The Word’ here as described by St. John is Jesus Christ, who took human form to rescue mankind from the grip of evil. The Word is alive when you believe that the author of life has a super plan to help you.

The Word is full of divine power and inspiration for your life. You can’t map your own life journey because you don’t have the clue about future. But The Word can teach you and take you on a journey of faith where you will walk on the path of peace.

Jump on the joy of His wonders. You will have hope to face crisis and calamity.

Because, ‘The Word’ is alive in your heart and it is reshaping your worldview.

‘The Word’ promises to give you a purpose driven life, which will inspire you to enjoy an abundant life. It begins with right faith.

But to all who believed Jesus Christ and accepted Him, He gave the right to become children of God. They are reborn—not with a physical birth resulting from human passion or plan, but a birth that comes from God. So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son. (John 1:12-14 NLT) Let ‘The Word’ enrich your life today as you make a commitment to seek and find your purpose on this planet. (Email: navig8grace@gmail.com)

ARYA PRATINIDHI SABHA OF QLD INC

The four human pursuits

called Karma) part of the Vedas, method of performance of these rituals.

VEDAS did not have * Aranyaka contains variJitendra Deo any written script, as the ous forms of meditations President knowledge was propaalso called as Upasanas. gated only through * Upanishad is the end part teaching and listening. This method is also of Vedas also called as Jnana Kanda (The referred as “Karma Parampara”. The whole knowledge of the supreme Self) and is the concept of writing came into existence only most important part of the Vedas. when the powers of human faculty were The above said four Vedas and the four degraded over time and they had to refer to parts of each Vedas are the original scriprecords to recollect things. The oldest tures which was made available to human records of Vedas were found in Brahami through the sages. Please note that none of scripts carved on stones. These scripts were the above was written by any human. in pictorial form and the predecessor to the Everyone, who belong to a particular linDevanagari script in use now and also eage of Veda Shaka is supposed to learn called as ‘Samskritham” or Sanskrit as a them “By-Heart”, recite daily, practice and short form in English language. These were teach them (In Sanskrit it called as also subsequently recorded in ancient times “Patanam” (Study) and “Paatanam” on dry palm leaves (The most reliable and (Teach). available printing medium at that point of It is also to be noted that the Vedas’ structime).The earliest records of the availability ture can be correlated to the increasing of the palm manuscript’s date back to order of maturity of one’s knowledge.

800CE.The earliest partial printed (on Humans start with simple prayers, perform paper) version of Veda was brought out by various Karmas (rituals) and Upasanas Max Muller during 1850 AD. (Meditation) to purify their mind and finalThe Veda Shakas (Branches) ly pursue their quest of the Supreme 1. Rig Veda. Hymns in Prayer forms dedi- Knowledge. The real end is a realization of cated to Gods in tradition one’s own real nature and recognition of the 2. Yajur Veda: Hymns in Prose form pri- fact that the God or Supreme Self is no difmarily focused on rituals ferent from oneself.

3. Sama Veda Hymns in Music and Melody The knowledge contained in these Vedas form was so vast that the four Vedas were further 4. Artharva Veda: Hymns which were subdivided in to Shakas or branches dealing focused on avoid calamities and sufferings. with various subject matters. There were It should be noted that these Vedic Hymns 1180 Shakas (Rig Veda — 21. Yajur Veda are not necessarily exclusive to particular — 109. Sama Veda -1000 and Athava edatype of Veda. For example Yajur Veda and 50). All the modern sciences that we now Sama Veda contain many Hymns from Rig have been described in detail in Vedas.

Veda. (continued in next issue) Each Veda Shaka has 4 part of Samhita, Brahmana, Aranyaka and Upanishad.

Please contact Jitendra Deo 3263 1914 or * Samhita contains basically various types Hari Chand 33454716 for information on or prayers. Every Samhita has a particular activities of Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of type or compilation and arrangement.

Queensland or log on: * Brahmana contains the ritualistic (also www.aryasamajqueensland.com (continued from last issue)

Life....

Courtesy Jossy Thomman 0468 302 690

Life is an internal (Yanja), dedication of concious awareness.

Life and living is a dedication of total attention.

Purpose of human life is also dedication.

Giving and getting enriched by the very giving.

Revelation of secret or mystery of life requires constant dedication of concious awareness.

Awareness is observation, listening and understanding.

Thoughts are desire, memory and attachment.

Understanding represents the ultimate divinity or light of life.

The act of uncovering ourselves is called YagnJnam) dedication.

Every action of ours is an expression of our inner being, the act of living is its own fulfillment.

Old age of the body cannot effect the intelligence.

It is clothed in innocence and utter defencelessness.

Unity of life is the foundationof non duality

Overfed & Undernourished: 11-year-old boy delivers important dietary and lifestyle lessons in new documentary WORLD Health Organization predicts one billion people will be obese by 2030 if current health trends continue.

Overfed and Undernourished is an upcoming feature documentary exploring the underlying causes of most modern health issues and the astonishingly simple solution everyone can benefit from. Produced by Australian-based film company Evolvee, it follows the journey of 11-year-old Liam after the death of his mother and the struggles and ultimately successes to regain his health.

With help from his Aunty and Uncle, this inspiring young boy makes some transformational life changes, from moving away from home and changing schools to getting back to basics by learning to move his body, express his emotions, and fuel himself with wholesome organic foods.

Following the lead of such influential health films as Hungry for Change, Food Matters, and Forks Over Knives, Australian director Troy Jones hones in on their shared idea of a great societal need to reconnect to the natural world.

With 25% of children and 67% of adults in Australia obese or overweight, Liam’s problem is not uncommon, but, as the film illustrates, the treatment is more readily attainable than most people think. Speaking with leading experts in health and nutrition, such as influential international speaker Don Tolman, filmmaker Joe Cross (Fat Sick & Nearly 30 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014

Dead), and doctors Dr. John Demartini, Dr. Anthony Gollé and Dr. Arne Rubinstein, we are told we need to stop consuming processed factory-made foods and start living off the land again to reclaim our health.

"If you eat too much food made by people in white coats… you end up seeing people in white coats,” says Joe Cross, who has dedicated himself to the cause since his personal success of treating his severe health issues with wholesome foods and a now famous health trend known as “juicing.”

Obesity has more than doubled in Australia since 1989, making the country’s unprecedented rise in obesity related health issues an epidemic. The experts in Overfed and Undernourished believe the causes are primarily due to the foods we eat, the reasons we eat, and the loss of connection we have to each other – People are too often connecting to their smartphone, tablet, or game console than to other human beings.

Dr. John Demartini, a leading human behaviour specialist and author, identifies the psychology behind the emotional and physical health issues most people face. Talking of food specifically, he points out the obsession society has with it: "I'm amazed at how many people, while they're having lunch, are already thinking about what they're going www.indiantimes.com.au

to do for dinner… They’re basically living from food to food instead of living their life and using food to sustain what's inspiring to them.”

Our modern fast-paced technology-obsessed society might defy the concept, but most of the film’s speakers stress the importance of grass-roots actions, with inspirational speaker Don Tolman saying, "One of the healthiest things we can do for ourselves and the generations that are coming up is to get them involved in planting, growing and harvesting foods from their own garden."

Watching Liam’s transformation we are shown real examples of this advice being followed and are moved by the positive changes taking place his life.

Through these changes the film encourages the audience to question the quality of their own diet, lifestyle, and personal bonds, asking us the fundamental question - Are you really nourishing yourself?

Whether you’re already health-conscious or not, you will walk away from this film inspired to reconnect with your body, your relationships, and your world.

Overfed and Undernourished will be released worldwide May 2014.

For more information about the film go to http://www.overfedandundernourishedmovie.com/ Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014 — 31

Health Beauty Wellbeing

How to look after your skin and hair in Winter Nimisha Modi Hetvi Hair & Beauty - 04 123 500 13

Hey Girls, cold winter air can create havoc for your poor skin and hair. Here are some tips for looking after yourself during the upcoming coldest season of the year. This will not only keep you looking good now, but will prevent your skin from aging prematurely. To follow these steps it will take only few minutes.

Step 1 Wrap up from head to toe. Invest in a warm pair of gloves to protect your hands and prevent the skin on them from becoming dry and flaky. Waterproof ones are recommended if you are going out as they don't soak your hands when you come across occasional rain.

Don't forget to wear a hat as they help protect your hair from drying out and they keep your head nice and warm. Too much exposure to cold, harsh weather can leave hair brittle and dry making it more susceptible to damage.

As well as this, wear a scarf when possible to protect the skin on your neck and chest.

Step 2 At home, keep warm but not hot. If the temperature inside is much hotter than outside it can irritate your skin and can even cause broken capillaries from the temperature shock when you get home or when you go out. While walking around at home wear slippers or warm socks to prevent getting cold feet which can cause chilblains, which cause your toes to swell, the skin to become sore and sometimes causes permanent disfigurement.

The same applies for when you are washing. Having a hot shower or bath can cause skin irritation if the weather is cold. As well as this it strips the natural moisture out of the skin and hair, so turn the temperature down from hot to warm.

Step 3 Adapt your hair care to the weather

changes. There are plenty of shampoos that help your hair be strong and healthy during winter. Hair goes dry, weak and brittle during winter, but if you give it the right treatment you'll avoid it becoming a big issue. Look for shampoos and conditioners which aim to protect and heal your hair, making sure it's slightly more moisturizing than what you use normally. Also, it may be a good idea to try a moisturising hair treatment once or twice a fortnight to help repair the effects of winter.

Step 4 Skin becomes drier in cold weather, especially if it's windy, because the moisture off the skin is evaporated more quickly by the wind, and the skin doesn't produce as much oil. Try using a slightly heavier moisturizer than you use in the summer, although still make sure that it's suitable for your skin type.

Make sure you moisturize every morning, especially if you are going outside, to prevent your skin from becoming dry and flaky.

Then at night, before going to bed, wash your face to remove make up and pollutants which could irritate your skin and apply moisturizer to treat your skin while you sleep. A couple of times a week you should use a gentle exfoliater to scrub

away dry skin which can become an issue in cold weather.

As well as looking after the skin on your face, don't forget to use a body butter on the skin on your body to prevent that skin from drying out. It doesn't need quite as much attention as the skin on your face as it's not often exposed, but it will still need more care than it gets in the warmer months.

Step 5 Give your lips extra attention to avoid them becoming chapped and splitting. Apply a moisturizing lip balm when you are doing the rest of your skin care, make it part of your routine. As well as this, before you go outside apply some Castor Oil/petroleum jelly to your lips as this creates a protective barrier between the cold air and your lips, locking in moisture.

Step 6 Apply a good hand cream daily and whenever needed. To keep the skin soft and comfortable, massage hand moisturizer into your hands in the morning and evening, as well as every time you wash your hand. If your hands are extremely dry, apply a suitable moisturizer at night and then wear light cotton gloves which are available for wearing at night to keep the moisture on them.

Step 7 Eat a balanced diet and stay hydrated. Eating a healthy diet full of nutrients and vitamins is the best way to keep your hair and skin from looking and feeling healthy.

It is simple but effective.

Enjoy your time. I will see you next month. Nimisha

Yoga - Positive wellbeing Benefits of Pranayam

By Jitendra Deo THE Physical Benefits Can contribute to create a toned, flexible and strong body. Helps improve respiration, energy and vitality.

The Health BenefitsRegular practice of Pranayam has in many cases provided relief in various ailments.

The Mental Benefits - Helps you relax and handle stressful situations easily.

The Spiritual Benefits Builds awareness of the body, feelings, the world around and the needs of others and empathy with nature.

Generally- Pranayam is physical and mental cleansing.

Meditation The practice of Meditation is exercising freedom to choose a harmonious and peaceful state of being. Meditation is a state of well-being to experience the bliss of inner peace.

According to Maharishi Patanjali Yoga Sutras, Mediation if practiced with gratitude, honor and respect, it profoundly elevates the quality of the practice.

Meditation is the state of awareness that remains same from one moment to the next.

The difference between meditation and deep sleep is the presence of awareness.

Meditation harmoniously blends deep relaxation and elevated awareness.

Maharishi Patanjali describes experience of meditation in the Yoga Sutra as “Dhyana heyaha tad vrittayaha” meaning meditation calms the turbulence in the consciousness.

Maharishi Patanjali defines Yoga as releasing the turbulence (vrittis) in his famous sutra. Yoga

is the cessation of the fluctuations of the mind.

Meditation therefore is the deepest experience of Yoga.

Any disturbances or agitations in the mind consume energy. Bringing the mind to a place of stillness, unnecessary drain of energy can be stopped. The same energy can be used to transform the state of mind into higher states of awareness. After meditation one can respond to the “problems” with elevated awareness.

Meditation brings a person in touch with the deepest aspects of essence. In daily life of activities the connection with these deepest intentions are lost. Consequently, our actions are not in harmony with these intentions.

Meditation brings great peace by calming the disturbances in the mind. It aligns our actions with our deepest intentions, and makes the actions powerful. Because of our peaceful presence, the world responds to us in same manner.

Benefits of Meditation * Increased capacity to concentrate for sustained periods of time * Being happy for no apparent reason * Increased clarity of mind * More willpower and stamina * Developments of intuition * An inner questioning about your nature The articles in this paper can also be found in Yog Guru website: www.yogguru.com.au. You can also post you blogs on blog page of the website if you have any queries or wish to get clarification on any issues discussed in the articles.

New Medical Skin Care Clinic opens in Brisbane’s Inner West LOCATED in Auchenflower, just a short hop from Brisbane’s CBD, the newly opened Rosalie Cosmetic Medicine clinic offers a wide range of medical and professional skin care treatments for all skin types - doctor only solutions, anti-ageing line and wrinkle reduction, facial fillers and medical laser treatments for hair removal, vein removal and acne.

Well known to many readers is Terri Cross, who is widely regarded as one of Australia’s leading medical laser operators for hair removal on dark skin. Terri joins Dr Philip Manfield and his team, which also includes specialist cosmetic nurse Susie Blennerhassett at Rosalie Cosmetic Medicine (a part of Rosalie Medical Centre).

Dark skin can often be a problem when it comes to effective laser hair removal. The new Rosalie clinic uses a high quality, medical grade Cutera Xeo laser which has the right wavelength for treating dark skin effectively. In the hands of the very experienced Terri Cross, this laser can solve even the most difficult hair problems, including PCOS. Anti-ageing treatments, such as line and wrinkle reduction or facial fillers are also professionally treated by Susie Blennerhassett, who works with some of Brisbane’s leading Plastic and Reconstructive surgeons. Susie regularly attends workshops and seminars to update her skills and knowledge in the use of injectable fillers and Botulinim toxin ‘Type A’. She is a very highly regarded cosmetic injector.

The Rosalie team is led by Dr Philip Manfield, a well known and very experienced general practitioner who combines his deep medical skills with his keen and growing interest in skin cancer checks, mens’ health and the ageing process.

32 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014

• Susie Blennerhassett, Dr Philip Manfield and Terri Cross.

The new clinic is located at 104 Haig Road, Auchenflower where there is plenty of nearby on-street car parking. www.indiantimes.com.au

Open Monday to Friday and Saturday by appointment, Tel 3369 5433.

Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

Health Beauty Wellbeing Kidney stones

By Thilliar Varnakulasingham

THE kidneys filter out water and also unwanted substances in the blood. These substances are produced by the normal working of the body. They are excreted by the kidneys in the form of urine. The kidneys also keep the salts and water of the body in correct balance. Your kidneys help control blood pressure. They also help make red blood cells and keep your bones strong.

Sometimes they get overloaded with one type of waste or another. When this happens, those substances form kidney stones. The size can vary in size from the size of a pin-

head to as big as a golf ball.

A large stone may get struck in a ureter, the bladder or the urethra.

There are four main types of stones. The most common type of stone contains calcium. A stuvite stone may form after an infection in the urinary system. A uric acid stone may form when the urine contains too much acid. Cysteine stones are rare. Cysteine is one of the building blocks that make up muscles, nerves and other parts of the body.

It can build up to form a stone.

Nephrolithiasis is the medical term for kidney stones. Stones may be smooth or jagged.

They are usually yellow or brown. The main symptom is severe pain. It starts suddenly and may go away suddenly. Pain may be felt in the belly area or side of the back. Pain may move to groin area or testicles. It is said to be the only pain worse than childbirth.

Other symptoms can include abnormal urine color, blood in the urine, chills, fever, nausea and vomiting.

Depending on the type of stone, your doctor may prescribe medicines to decrease stone formation or help break down and remove the material that is causing the stone.

Medications include allopurinol for uric acid stones, antibiotics for struvite stones, diuretics, phosphate solutions, sodium bicarbonate or sodium citrate and water pills (thiazide diuretics).

Dehydration is a major risk factor for kidney stone formation. Other factors include dietary and hereditary. Diagnosis is best accomplished by a CT scan. Abdominal xrays, abdominal/kidney MRI, intravenous pyelogram or retrograde pyelogram may also be used. Tests that may be done include blood tests, kidney function tests, urinalysis.

In about eight out of 10 cases, your doctor will prescribe pain relief and plenty of fluids and the stone will pass out of your system naturally. In a few cases, when the stones are very large or when there is infection present, other treatments will be required such as lithotripsy, ureteroscopy or nephrolithotomy.

If treatment is delayed, damage to the kidney or other serious complications can occur, such as decrease or loss of function in the affected kidney, kidney damage, scarring, obstruction of the ureter, recurrence of stones and urinary tract infection.

You must call a doctor if you have extreme pain in your back or side that will not go away, blood in the urine, fever and chills, vomiting, urine that smells bad or looks cloudy or a burning feeling when you urinate.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014 - 33

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Real Estate News The Book - Residential Property Investing in Australia released

HI, I’M CRAIG WALSH YOUR HOME LENDING EXPERT.

ENDING IAN L AW AL A TR

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ensure vacancies are refilled quickly and also to compete with the new stock on the market.

Local agents are also reporting tenants deciding to move further out where they can achieve a larger property for the same weekly rent.

The greater Brisbane area however saw the largest decline in its vacancy rate, down to 1.9 per cent at the end of March. All of the surrounding local government areas recorded a drop of at least 0.3 percentage points.

Logan City and Redland City recorded the largest drops, both down 0.8 percentage points to 1.2 and 1.6 per cent respectively.

Local agents in the southern greater Brisbane area report limited rental supply.

Tenant demand is also up, while many are choosing to stay put with minimal to no rent increases on lease renewals.

Despite increased investor activity across Queensland in recent months, local agents report an increased number of sales of former investment properties to owner-occupiers, reducing the overall rental pool in some areas.

M

THE majority of Queensland’s rental markets have returned to tighter conditions, according to the REIQ’s latest Residential Rental Survey.

REIQ CEO Anton Kardash said the survey, carried out in March across all REIQ accredited agencies, found that the majority of the state recorded lower vacancy rates compared to three months ago.

“Queensland is seeing a return to a tighter rental market,” he said. “Stronger tenant demand and a decrease in the availability of stock are the common themes across the State.”

In Brisbane, the overall vacancy rate for the metropolitan area was back down to 2.3 per cent, as seen at the end of September last year. Excluding the spike recorded in December, the Brisbane vacancy rate has been around the 2 to 2.3 per cent mark for over 12 months now.

As expected, the Brisbane inner city rental market returned to a healthier vacancy rate following a spike in December. This is reportedly the result of easing asking rents to

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38 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014 — 39

Bollywood & Entertainment Pomp and splendour of Bollywood shines on Melbourne

• Amitabh Bachchan will be honoured as the IFFM International Screen icon for 2014 during the festival in Melbourne. He is the “undisputed patriarch” of Indian cinema.

• Kangana Ranaut won the Best Actress award for her performance in Queen at the IIFM.

By Rama Gaind POMP, splendour and the shimmering spectacle of Bollywood – along with the presence of the ‘godfather of Indian cinema’, Amitabh Bachchan – hit a crescendo at the end of the inaugural awards ceremony of the third Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) on May 2.

The red carpet gala event saw the historic Princess Theatre being besieged by international guests, high profile and local dignitaries and countless fans for the awards ceremony that was also resplendent with infectious music and dance.

The two-time National Film Award-winning director Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra`s hit film Bhaag Milkha Bhaag won three awards: for best film, director and actor.

Farhan Akhtar, who played the title role in the biopic on legendary athlete Milkha Singh, shared the Best Actor award with Irrfan Khan for The Lunchbox.

Kangana Ranaut received the best actress award for her hit film Queen.

The sophomore directorial outing by Vijay Krishna Acharya, Dhoom 3, received the People’s Choice award for being the highest grossing film at the Australian box office.

Ritesh Batra took the award for The

Lunchbox in the best Indie film award category.

This year’s IFFM Awards, the first of its kind in Australia, was judged by a panel of Australian and Indian film legends including Phillip Noyce, Jill Bilcock, Raju Hirani, Simi Garewal, Rajeev Masand and Suhasini Maniratnam.

Bachchan’s star On his first-ever visit to Australia, megastar Amitabh Bachchan, 71, felt priviledged: he was honoured with a special International Screen Icon award and La Trobe University created the ‘Shri Amitabh Bachchan’ scholarship. The university also conferred an honorary doctorate.

The accolades were ample: the director of IFFM, Mitu Bhowmick-Lange, said he was the “undisputed patriarch of Indian cinema”, while the Victorian Minister for the Arts, Heidi Victoria, called him “a true legend of Bollywood”.

‘Big B’ thanked the Victorian Government for conferring him with the Screen Icon award and felt he was “least accomplished to receive such a recognition, but this is your kindness, affection and grace”.

He elaborated on cinema being a great medium, which transcended colour, caste or religion.

• Vijay Krishna Acharya never dreamt that his sophomore directorial outing with Dhoom 3 would end up breaking many box office records.

The Bollywood icon said cinema was a builder of bridges between cultures. One enjoyed the same film, “when we sit inside a hall, we don’t know what the caste, creed, religion or colour of the person sitting next to you is”.

“We enjoy the same product, laugh at the same jokes and sing the same songs. We enjoy the same emotions,” he said, adding there were very few institutions left in the world that are able to bring such integration.

“It is wonderful to see that the Australian Government has decided to use this medium in bringing the two cultures, communities together and building strong bonds of friendship. Not just in the field of commerce but in our culture, in our exchange of students and personalities.”

This “true legend of Bollywood” is making four films this year and will again be host of TV’s Kaun Banega Crorepati.

Festival highlights Regarded as one of the biggest events of its kind in the southern hemisphere, the 11-day festival kicked off on 1 May 2014 with the Australian premiere of the newly-restored Sholay 3D (starring Bachchan), which since its release in 1975, has seen the spaghetti western-style action adventure film estab-

lishing itself as a beloved classic of Indian cinema.

Other festival guests included national award-winning arthouse star Konkona Sen Sharma; Simi Garewal; iconic filmmakers Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra and Raj Kumar Hirani; Bollywood siren Malaika Arora Khan; popular actress, director, producer and writer, Suhasini Maniratnam; celebrated writer and director of the record-breaking Dhoom 3, Vijay Krishna Acharya; and from Lollywood, Pakistani producer Hassan Wagas Rana (Waar) and acclaimed Pakistani actor, writer and director Shaan Shahid.

The festival saw a world-class program that overflowed with gala events, master classes with India’s leading film celebrities and more than 45 screenings from five countries in 17 languages.

Indian cinema is all about romance, drama, action, comedy, songs and - definitely dance. At Federation Square, on May 4, Sanjana was declared the ‘classical’ winner of the Telstra Bollywood Dance Competition by the gorgeous Malaika Arora Khan (a judge on India’s Got Talent).

The colour and rhythm of Bollywood was expressed most joyously through its dancing!

After receiving raved reviews in Melbourne and Sydney, Brisbane gets ready to walk the Red Carpet Premiere for Director Vimal Reddy’s next “Highway To Suva”!

Director: Vimal Reddy Melbourne based movie maker who has previously directed “Adhura Sapna” in 2007 and “Ghar Pardes” in 2009 Cast for Highway to Suva: Rishi Deepak - NZ based Bollywood actor who acted in the recently released movie “Urban Turban” which received good response in Fiji.

Tarishma Goundar - Local girl from Lautoka Fiji makes her debut. She was in the top ten of the Miss Fiji pageant in 2012.

Ratu Rakuita Tawake - Native Fijian actor who has acted in all three movies made by Vimal Reddy. Famously known as “Jona” in “Adhura Sapna”.

Vijay Kumaran - Star of “Ghar Pardes” who also sings two songs in the movie alongside famous Bollywood singer Javed Ali from the Ghajni fame.

Adwin Awadh - Gold Coast based actor who previously acted in a supporting role in “Ghar Pardes’. In this movie he has a very prominent role which received rave reviews in Melbourne and Sydney.

Director Of Photography: Sabu James- Highly acclaimed cinematographer from the South Indian Film industry who has trained and taught at the Pune Film Insititute of India.

40 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014

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Singers: Famous singer from Bollywood has sung one song and Fiji born singer Vijay Kumaran sang two songs including the title sing which has become very popular in Fiji.

Release date in for the Red Carpet Premiere in Brisbane: Sunday 15th June at 6pm Event Cinemas Garden City, Upper Mt Gravatt Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

Bollywood & Entertainment

IIFA 2014 Winners: Bhaag Milkha Bhaag sweeps the honours

IT was “Bhaag Milkha Bhaag” all the way at the 15th edition of the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA). Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra’s directorial venture bagged the maximum top honours including best picture and best director as well as the best actor award for Farhan Akhtar.

Deepika Padukone won the best actress trophy for playing a Tamil girl in “Chennai Express” and the actress, who gave back-toback four hits last year, also walked away with the best entertainer of the year award.

Hollywood star John Travolta received an award for his outstanding contribution to international cinema.

Held Saturday 26 April at the Raymond James Stadium, the Indian cinema’s extravaganza was enjoyed by an overwhelming crowd of 20,000 (90 percent were Indian) who were entertained and enthralled by a bevy of Bollywood stars like Hrithik Roshan, Madhuri Dixit, Ranveer Singh and Priyanka Chopra.

“Bhaag Milkha Bhaag”, a biopic on former Olympian Milkha Singh, saw Farhan etching out the role of the athlete with so much elan that he won many awards back home.

“I have received awards for ‘Bhaag Milkha Bhaag’ but this is the first time I am receiving the award in the presence of Milkha Singh. It’s a great moment for me and I am extremely honoured to receive the award,” said Farhan in his acceptance speech.

The actor received the trophy from his father and lyricist Javed Akhtar and actress Shabana Aazmi, while Deepika’s “Ramleela” co-star and rumoured boyfriend Ranveer Singh handed over the award to her.

In fact, it was a big moment for the “Bhaag Milkha Bhaag” team when Milkha Signh accompanied them on the stage to receive the best picture award.

An emotional Milkha Singh said: “I am thankful to IIFA for bringing me here and giving me respect. I have cried three-four times in my life. First, was when my parents were killed in front of my eyes, second, when I lost the gold medal at the Rome Olympics….

“Everyone thought I could win the medal but that went away. It was my bad luck.

Before I die, I wish someone from India wins the gold medal. I want to see a gold medal and then go,” said the 84-year-old.

“Third time I cried was when they made this film and I saw everything (my life’s journey) on the screen. Whenever I see the film, I cry. When I was sitting here now, I was in tears seeing the love and recognition the film has got,” he added.

The winning spree of “Bhaag Milkha Bhaag” continued with the best actress in a supporting role award for Divya Dutta and best story trophy for Prasoon Joshi.

Aditya Roy Kapoor won best supporting role male award for his bravo performance in “Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani”.

Rishi Kapoor, who sent shivers down the viewers’ spine as arch-villain Rauf Lala in “Agneepath”, hit the bull’s eye once again with his work in “D-Day” and won the award for best actor in a negative role.

“When I had played the good boy on the screen, I never won any award but now when I have turned bad, I have been appreciated (Laughs). I am honoured to be here,” said the 1980s chocolate boy, known for hits like “Bobby” and “Karz”, after receiving the honour.

Arshad Warsi’s comic timing in “Jolly LLB” helped him win the best actor in a comic role trophy.

In the music category, hit musical romantic movie “Aashiqui 2″ was the big winner with Mithoon-Ankit Tiwari-Jeet Ganguly wining best music directors award, Mithoon the best lyricist gong for penning “Tum Hi Ho” and Arijit Singh best playback singer male for the same song.

Best female singer trophy went to Shreya Ghoshal for the rendition of “Sunn raha hai” from “Aashiqui 2″ In the category honouring new entrants, Dhanush was declared the best male debuCall Trudi on 07 3865 6533

tant of the year for “Raanjhana”.

Acting-and-singing sensation Priyanka started the show with her performance, while the gala ended with Hindi cinema’s superstar and mesmerizing dancer Hrithik’s act.

Bollywood diva and dancing queen Madhuri, who was applauded by her fans at IIFA awards, performed on her hit dance numbers, including “Ek do teen”, “Dhak dhak” and “Dola re dola re”.

Before starting with her performance, she wowed the audience by clicking a selfie with them.

Ranveer is a craze here. The audience went berserk when he hit the stage to dance on

“Tatad tadad” and “Tune maari entry”. In fact, the high point of his performance was when he pulled in Govinda to groove with him on “Tune maari entry”.

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Hosted by Farhan and Shahid Kapoor, it was all about glitz, glamour and loads of Bollywood “tadka”, which the audience lapped up.

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Sports News

Brisbane Roar win third A-League championship with thrilling 2-1 extra-time win over Western Sydney Wanderers IT was late, it was dramatic, and it was quintessentially Brisbane.

The Roar secured a third A-League championship in four years at Lang Park on Sunday 4 May, coming from behind in a grand final again to beat the Western Sydney Wanderers 2-1 after extra time.

Henrique - who slotted home the winning shoot-out penalty in the Roar's first grand final win back in 2011 - proved to be Brisbane's hero, sealing the match with a close-range finish on the 108th minute.

Wanderers defender Matthew Spiranovic had scored his first ever A-League goal to open the scoring in the 56th minute, stooping at the front post to guide home Shinji Ono's corner.

It looked as if Spiranovic's goal would decide the match, until Besart Berisha - the man swapping the orange of Brisbane for the blue of Melbourne Victory at the end of the season - rose high to nod home Thomas Broich's delicate 86th minute free-kick and send the match to extra time.

Brisbane took its ascendancy into the extra period, and the Roar found the winner when Matt McKay's cross fell to Broich at the back post.

Henrique took Broich's driven cross brilliantly, before calmly slotting into the roof of the net from six yards out.

Western Sydney pushed for a late equaliser but as the fatigue and yellow cards begun to amass, it was clear grand final day belonged, yet again, to the Brisbane Roar.

McKay, who captained Brisbane's historic triumph in 2011, said the win was nothing less than the team deserved.

"Everyone's obviously worked the whole year for this," McKay said.

"It would have been disappointing to be leading by 10 points and not win the grand final.

"Every single player has contributed - they've worked hard to get into the team ... and now to get a premiership and a championship."

Berisha's emotions spilled over onto the pitch after the

match, one in which the controversial Albanian played a telling role.

"I'm very emotional right now, I'm very glad and happy," a tearful Berisha said.

"I'm so happy with the way I finished and the way we won the grand final - this is the best finish I could ever wish.

"Brisbane gave me so much, and I tried so hard to give it back."

The Joe Marston Medal for best afield was shared, as judges could not split Brisbane's Broich and Western Sydney's Lacopo La Rocca. abc.net.au - Dean Bilton

Obama, sports figures slam NBA team owner’s ‘don’t bring black guests’ remark

US president Barack Obama on Sunday 4 May joined leading sports figures in condemning racist remarks allegedly made by the owner of the Los Angeles Clippers, one of the NBA’s top basketball teams.

Gossip website TMZ on Saturday posted an audio recording it says shows billionaire Clippers owner Donald Sterling (pictured) telling his girlfriend to refrain from bringing black guests to see his team play.

Sterling, 80, was reportedly angry about a photograph that the woman, identified only as V Stiviano, posted on social media site Instagram with retired Los Angeles Lakers basketball legend Magic Johnson.

“It bothers me a lot that you want to broadcast that you are associating with black people. Do you have to?” Sterling allegedly says in the nearly 10-minute recording.

“You can sleep with (black people). You can bring them in. You can do whatever you want. The little I ask is not to promote it on that... and not to bring them to my games.”

Later in the audio, the woman identifies herself as “black and Mexican”.

“In your lousy... Instagrams you don't have to have yourself walking with black people,” says the male voice.

“Incredibly offensive” Obama, the first African American president and a keen basketball player and fan, interrupted his diplomatic initiative in Asia to condemn "ignorant" and "incredibly offensive" racist remarks.

"I don't think I have to interpret those statements for you. They kind of speak for themselves," said the president, speaking in Malaysia. "When ignorant folks want to advertise their ignorance, you don't really have to do anything, you just let them talk."

Obama also made a wider point about racism in the United States, which he said is still wrestling with the legacy of slavery and segregation.

"We just have to be clear and steady in denouncing it, teaching our children differently but also (remain) hopeful that part of why some statements like this stand out so much is because there has been a shift in how we view ourselves," he said.

National Basketball Association (NBA) commissioner Adam Silver, who promised to move "extraordinary quickly in our investigation" of the controversy, said, “The audio recording posted by TMZ is truly offensive and disturbing."

Silver said the league planned to interview Sterling, the woman on the tape, and possibly have the probe wrapped up before the Clippers' next home game late Tuesday.

"There are broad powers in place under the NBA constitution and by-laws that include a range of sanctions. All those will be considered and will depend on the findings of our investigation," he said, adding however that Sterling was owed "due process."

The remarks do not reflect Sterling's opinions on race, Clippers president Andy Roeser said as he announced a team probe.

Roeser added that the woman identified as Stiviano "is the defendant in a lawsuit brought by the Sterling family alleging that she embezzled more than $1.8 million, who told Mr. Sterling that she would 'get even.'"

According to the Los Angeles Times,

42 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2014

Stiviano is in her 20s and has been seen often at Sterling's side.

In a lawsuit filed last month, Sterling's wife claims that her husband gave Stiviano money and expensive cars, The Times reported.

Widespread outrage The outrage from NBA stars was clear, loud and emphatic.

"Magic" Johnson vowed on Twitter that he and his wife Cookie would never attend another Clippers' game as long as Sterling owns the team.

"LA Clippers owner Donald Sterling's comments about African Americans are a black eye for the NBA," Johnson wrote.

"No room for Donald Sterling in our league," Miami Heat superstar LeBron James said. "I can't imagine what's going on in his head."

"It's a damn shame but a sad reality that we have people like that in this world," Los Angeles Lakers star guard Kobe Bryant said.

"It upsets all of us. There's not one guy who is happy with this situation," said Clippers coach Glenn "Doc" Rivers after a team meeting on the matter before a practice session.

Sterling has expressed racist views before, according to former Clipper standout Baron Davis.

"That's the way it is.. He is honest about what he believes in.. Been going on for a long time, Hats off 2 the Team.. 4 playin above it all," Davis wrote on Twitter.

African American rights activist Jesse Jackson called for fans to boycott Clippers' games.

"If we are just going from picking cotton balls to picking basketballs, then we are not making progress. It's about dignity," Jackson told ESPN. AFP

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Juventus win third successive Serie A title after Roma lose

MILAN: Juventus secured the 2014 Serie A title with three games to spare on Sunday 4 May after closest challengers Roma were stunned 4-1 away to relegation-haunted Catania.

It is the Turin giants' 30th official title in Italy's top flight and third in succession under coach Antonio Conte.

Juventus remain on course to become the first team in Serie A to finish with at least 100 points.

Juventus had congregated at a hotel in Turin to watch Roma's upset on television and immediately after the final whistle the celebrations began.

Several players, among whom striker Pablo Daniel Osvaldo, posted brief messages on Twitter: "Campioni !!!!"

"We are the champions, we are the champions," read another from the club's official Twitter feed alongside pictures of the players dressed in identical black t-shirts making reference to the club's belief they have won 32 titles.

Juventus were stripped of two Serie A titles, which they won in 2005 and 2006, following their demotion to Serie B for their role in the Calciopoli match-fixing scandal.

Roma had emerged as Juve's only real challengers this season after setting a new Serie A record of 10 opening wins under French coach Rudi Garcia.

But despite the capital club clinging to Juve's heels in recent weeks and Garcia remaining defiant, the Roma boss on Saturday finally conceded defeat to Juventus.

After a testing season trying to keep pace with the Juve juggernaut, which went on a 22-match unbeaten run following a shock 42 away defeat to Fiorentina in their eighth match of the season, Garcia's words appeared to have a soporific effect.

Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

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