Desh Videsh Magazine Honoring India’s First Poets April 2020

Co ntents

Cover

About Cover • Rabindranath Tagore • Tulsidas • Kabir Das • Kalidasa • Sarojini Naidu • Nissim Ezekiel • Sri Aurobindo Ghosh • Mirabai • Narsinh Mehta • Mahadevi Verma

APRIL 2020

Desh-Videsh VOLUME 27, ISSUE 04 Article Top 10 Indian Poets

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Top 10 Indian Poets

From Vedic Sanskrit poems in the ancient Vedas crafted over 10,000 years ago to Hindi and English verses by Indian poets in modern times, poetry has found a special spot in the literary world.

The New Global Economy after Coronavirus

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There are three uncertainties regarding the long term economic impact of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). One, whether a vaccine is invented to prevent the spread of the virus or not.

Trump’s Historic Visit to India

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President Trump’s historic visit to India on February 24, 2020, was an important step towards the partnership between the world’s largest and oldest democracies of the world.

President Trump was the sixth United States

Get to Know: Surabhi Adesh, Musician

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Born in India, Surabhi Adesh moved to Trinidad in the mid-1960s during her formative years. She grew up in Trinidad surrounded by music, art, literature, and culture. Given her parents were highly skilled educators in literature, languages

Day of Service at South Florida Hindu Temple

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On February 23, 2020, I was lucky enough to be a volunteer during the annual Day of Service at South Florida Hindu Temple. The day is dedicated to Hindus coming together to perform Seva, selfless service.

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The New Global Economy after Coronavirus

26

Trump’s Historic Visit to India

34

Get to Know: Surabhi Adesh, Musician

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Day of Service at South Florida Hindu Temple 46 Poetry Corner

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Home Activities During Coronavirus

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Bollywood Today

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Desi TV Duniya

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Edito r’s View Dear Readers, This month’s issue of Desh-Videsh covers so many things, I don’t even know where to start. But let me make an attempt.

Coronavirus (COVID-19), as President Trump calls it the invisible enemy, has brought unprecedentedly tough times all over the world. It has disrupted our family life, social life and more importantly, business life. Seniors, and particularly people of all ages with health issues are more at risk. This is the time when we all have to come together and fight this enemy. Fortunately many young people and some businesses have come forward to help our fellow humans. It would be very difficult to name the many helping, but one business I would like to mention is located here in South Florida - Flavors of India. It is a grocery store based in Pembroke Pines, and they have announced that they will deliver groceries to seniors and will not charge for delivery.

What a nice gesture!

Now let me talk about some of the rumors or fake news we may be getting through WhatsApp or our emails regarding a cure for coronavirus. Most of these are nothing but rumors that have no scientific base or proof. So before you do anything, please be sure to consult your physician and please do not forward the rumors along to your friends.

Dr. Bharat Jhunjhunwala has written a very informative article, “The New Global Economy after Coronavirus.” Dr. Jhunjhunwala is based in India so the article applies more towards Indian economy, but at this time every county is facing similar economic problems so many aspects apply even to us in the United States.

To ease your pain and stress, we here at Desh Videsh Media Group are doing our share. I am sure you must have received an email from us about the two Weekly Webinar Series we are offering.

The first is “How to Navigate Your Business in These Tough Times,” where financial professionals give advice and answer your questions. The second in the Weekly Webinar Series is “Sa Ni Dh Pa Live,” which is a live musical program brought straight to your living room! Featured in this webinar will be amateur and professional musical artists. If you did not receive the email, please go to page 58 and sign up for our emails so you don’t miss any important updates!

Now let me turn to some lighter topics since we could all use that right now! Some of you may know that April is National Poetry Month. We are excited to bring an article to you that honors some of the first poets in India. This article provides short bios of these great poets and excerpts from some of their popular poems. Please visit www. deshvidesh.com/TOP10INDIAPOETS for more poems written by these popular poets.

We also feature some poems written by Megha Sood, a poet who has earned several accolades, as well as by Aarohi Talati, our own young and talented poet from South Florida.

Let me close this column by reminding all of you to follow CDC guidelines, wash your hands, keep social distance, stay home, and stay safe!

Raj Shah Managing Editor

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rom Vedic Sanskrit poems in the ancient Vedas crafted over 10,000 years ago to Hindi and English verses by Indian poets in modern times, poetry has found a special spot in the literary world. India has been the birthplace of some of the most versatile and talented poets and writers. Be it ancient poet Ved Vyas, Nobel prize winner Rabindranath Tagore, spiritual guru Kabir, or religious poetess Mirabai, each has been an iconic figure in the literary history of the country. By no means does the list end here, it is just a glimpse into the varied talent that exists.

The country has also served as the birthplace of many more eminent poets whose works were a reflection of the social trend and guidelines for society. These include Kalidas, Tulasi Das, Sarojini Naidu, Nissim Ezekiel, Sri Aurobindo Ghosh, Narshin Mehta, Mahadevi Verma, Henry Vivian Derozio, Mirza Ghalib, Kamala Das, Amir Khusrow, Amrita Pritam, Mir Taqi Mir, Rahim, Gulzar Harivansh Rai Bachchan, Ramakrishna Paramhansa, and so many more. The versatility of these poets is such that they have penned not just in Hindi but also the nonliterary languages of different states in India as well as in English.

Rabindranath Tagore (May 7, 1861 – August 7, 1941)

Rabindranath Tagore wrote successfully in all literary genres, but was primarily a poet and lyricist for his own popular songs. In 1913, he became the first Indian to win the Nobel Prize because “of his profoundly sensitive, fresh and beautiful verse, by which, with consummate skill, he has made his poetic thought, expressed in his own English words, a part of the literature of the West.”

Kalidasa (4th - 5th century CE)

With some awe-inspiring biographies presented in this article, read on to know to learn more about the life and works of those considered to be the top ten Indian poets.

Mahadevi Verma

(March 26, 1907 – September 11, 1987) Mahadevi Verma was born in a Hindu family, and it was her mother who inspired her to write poems at an early age. As a poet, Verma is known as the “modern Mira” due to her emotional sentiments and love of nature. She has been called the grand dame of Hindi literature. Verma held the position of ViceChancellor of Prayag Mahila Vidyapeeth and was awarded the Padma Vibhushan.

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The ancient Sanskrit poet Kalidasa is widely regarded as the greatest Indian writer-poet of all time. Kalidasa means “the one who serves Goddess Kali.” His most celebrated work is the Sanskrit play Shakuntala, which is a dramatization of a Mahabharata episode relating to the daughter of Sage Vishwamitra.

Shakuntala was the first Indian play to be translated into a Western language, and it has since been translated into at least 12 European languages. Kalidas has had a great impact on Indian literature and several subsequent poets, including Rabindranath Tagore.

APRIL 2020 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

Tulsidas (1532–1623)

Sarojini Naidu

(February 13, 1879 – March 2, 1949) Gandhiji conferred Sarojini Naidu as the “Nightingale of India” began her writing career at the age of 13. The widely acclaimed book The Golden Threshold was her first collection of poems published in 1905.

It combined traditional poetic forms with lush images of India. She earned worldwide praise from English writers such as Edmund Gosse and Arthur Symons.

Tulsidas composed the epic poem Ramcharitamanas, which is thought to be one of the greatest works of Hindi literature. It re-tells the Sanskrit Ramayana in language that the common man can grasp.

Nissim Ezekiel

(December 16, 1924 – January 9, 2004) Nissim Ezekiel has been hailed as the father of post-colonial Indian English poetry. Innovative in technique, he subtly explored themes relating to everyday Indian life and helped move Indian-English literature beyond oriental and spiritual themes. Below is an extract from his poem The Patriot that is written in a distinctive Indian-English style. Written years back, it still applies for modern day lifestyle.

I am standing for peace and non-violence.

Why world is fighting fighting?

Why all people of world Are not following Mahatma Gandhi, I am simply not understanding.

Ancient Indian Wisdom is 100% correct, I should say even 200% correct, But modern generation is neglecting Too much going for fashion and foreign thing.

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Naidu was also a political leader who played an important role during the “Quit India” movement led by Gandhiji. She was the first woman President of the Indian National Congress and also the first woman governor of an Indian state. Her works are rich in imagery and explore wide variety of subjects including nature, love, death and patriotism.

Kabir Das (15th century)

A poet admired by Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs all over the world, Kabir is a well-read poet in India. The poetry of Kabir is simple but comes with a profound life message and at the same is very easy to understand even for common people. Kabir is most renowned for his Doha also called couplets.

APRIL 2020 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

Narsinh Mehta (15th-century) Narsinh

Mehta

a

15th-century

poet-saint

of Gujarat who inspired Gandhiji with one his famous bhajans, “Vaishnava Jana To.” He is known as Adi Kavi (Sanskrit for “first among poets”) in India and especially in Gujarat. Karen Pechilis, author of “The Poetry and Legacy of a Hindu Female Saint of India” describes Narsinh Mehta’s poetry, “His poetry has circulated in diverse ways across

centuries

and

regions,

through

melodic everyday songs, the social justice of Mahatma Gandhi, and the global reach of YouTube.”

Vaishnava Jana To Tene Re Kahiye, Je Peed Paraayi Jaane Re Para Duhkhe Upakāra Kare To Ye, Mana Abhimāna Na Āne Re Sakala Loka Mā Sahune Vande, Nindā Na Kare Kenī Re, Vāca Kācha Mana Niścala Rākhe, Dhana Dhana Jananī Tenī Re Sama-Drishthi Ne Trishnā Tyāgī, Para-Strī Jene Māta Re, Jihvā Thakī Asatya Na Bole, Para-Dhana Nava Jhāle Hātha Re Moha Māyā Vyāpe Nahi Jene, Dridha-Vairāgya Jenā Manamā Re, Rāma-Nāma Śhu Tālī Re Lāgī, Sakala Tīratha Tenā Tanamā Re Vana-Lobhī Ne Kapata-Rahita Chhe, Kāma Krodha Nivāryā Re, Bhane Narasaiyo Tenu Darasana Karatā, Kula Ekotera Tāryā Re A Vaishnav, knows the pain of others Does good to others With out letting ego enter his mind.

A Vaishnav, Tolerates and praises the entire world.

Does not speak ill of others Keeps his promises, actions and thoughts pure his mother is blessed indeed.

A Vaishnav sees everything equally, rejects greed and avarice respects women as he respects his own mother though his tongue may tire he will utter no untruth Never touches the property of others.

A Vaishnav does not succumb to worldly attachments he has renounced lust of all types and anger The poet Narsi will like to see such a person by whose virtue, the entire family gets salvation.

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APRIL 2020 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

Sri Aurobindo Ghosh

Mirabai (1498–1547)

(August 15, 1872 – December 5, 1950 )

Most of us know Sri Aurobindo as an Indian philosopher, yogi, guru, and nationalist. But when you read some of his poems on themes of spirituality and mortality and translations of Vedas, Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita, you will agree that his name should be included in this list of top 10 Indian poets.

K. D. Verma shared this about Sri Aurobindo in his book The Indian Imagination: “It is no exaggeration to say that Aurobindo Ghose (Sri Aurobindo) is one of the greatest minds of the twentieth century. Aurobindo the mahayogi, Aurobindo the philosopher, Aurobindo the poet, Aurobindo the interpreter of Indian thought, Aurobindo the critic and Aurobindo the radical politician—all these hats fit him. I would argue that a proper and comprehensive revaluation of Aurobindo’s work and vision as a poet must take into account all aspects of his genius and achievement, for they are integrally related to the making of Aurobindo the poet.”

Here is an excerpt from one of his poem’s “Krishna.”

At last I find a meaning of soul’s birth Into this universe terrible and sweet, I who have felt the hungry heart of earth Aspiring beyond heaven to Krishna’s feet 24

Mirabai was a 16th-century Hindu poet, a princess and devotee of Lord Krishna. She was in love with Lord Krishna from her early childhood and her poems are of love and devotion to her Lord. Her devotion to Lord Krishna made her go against the traditions and customs of her time and made her the most famous of the women poets of north India. Her love and devotion to Lord Krishna was the base of her writings. She has written poems exploring topics of divinity, mysticism, and love. Below is an excerpt of one her popular poems: I am mad with love And no one understands my plight.

Only the wounded Understand the agonies of the wounded,

As mentioned at the beginning of this article, choosing the top 10 Indian poets is not an easy task. We have attempted in this article to list them.

We have included many more on our website: w w w. d e s h v i d e s h . c o m/ TOP10POETS. Also included are a few of their popular poems on our website.

APRIL 2020 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

The New Global Economy after Coronavirus

by Bharat Jhunjhunwala

T

here are three uncertainties regarding the long term economic impact of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). One, whether a vaccine is invented to prevent the spread of the virus or not. Two, whether this virus will get eliminated during the summer months or it will reappear in the next winters.

Three, whether the common man will develop immunity against the virus or it will continue to inflict damage.

These uncertainties will determine whether the impact of coronavirus will be like “U” or “L.” “U” would mean that the economy will go down for a while but soon pick up to the old levels; while “L” would mean that the economy will not bounce back and continue on the slow lane for a considerable time. Prudence requires that we plan for a worst-case “L” scenario where the pandemic continues to restrict economic activity for considerable time.

The economic consequence will be hard if the pandemic continues beyond 21 days. It will nevertheless be deep even due to the present 21-day lockdown. Businesses will have to pay interest to the banks for the 21-days of lockdown. They will have no income to pay this interest while the interest burden continues to pile up.

Many are likely to go bankrupt.

The banks will face trouble if they waive off the interest for this period because they will be required to pay interest to their depositors. They will have no income from the loans while they will have to pay money to the depositors. Reneging

APRIL 2020 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

''

These uncertainties will determine whether the impact of coronavirus will be like “U” or “L.” “U” would mean that the economy will go down for a while but soon pick up to the old levels; while “L” would mean that the economy will not bounce back and continue on the slow lane for a considerable time.

''

on this commitment will lead to a loss of confidence in the banking sector with disastrous economic consequences.

People will start buying gold then. Non-payment of interest on deposits will also lead to a reduction in demand by those who depend on the income from fixed deposits and again pull down the economy. Thus, I expect a number of businesses, especially large corporations that have borrowed heavily to go bankrupt. Such bankruptcies will destabilize the entire financial system more deeply that was done by IL&FS during “normal” times.

The Governments of India, United States and certain European countries have announced fiscal stimulus to combat this impending slowdown. The basic concept of the fiscal stimulus is that the government will borrow and invest to jumpstart economic activity. Say, the government invests in highways. The cost of transport will be reduced.

Economic activity will be increased. Government will earn additional tax revenues

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from this additional activity.

The revenue will be used by the government to repay the loan. However, the present fiscal stimulus will generate no additional incomes. It will only compensate for the loss of income due to the lockdown.

The government will not earn any additional revenues

from the fiscal stimulus at present. On the other hand the borrowings will create additional burden on the future revenues of the government.

Thus, these fiscal stimulus will only shift the present burden of the lockdown to the future without generating any additional incomes.

For more detailed information on this article or to view additional pictures, please visit deshvidesh.com/April2020 28

Monetary policy has similar limitations. The Central Banks can reduce the interest rates to encourage the businesses to borrow and invest and to encourage the consumers to borrow and consume. The United States’ Federal Reserve Board has reduced the interest rates to zero. The Japanese Central Bank has been holding to zero interest rate for a considerable time.

These steps have not led to revving up of the economy because businesses are not willing to borrow-and-invest in absence of demand from the market; and consumers are not willing to borrow-and-consume in absence of security of jobs in the coming times. Both fiscal and monetary policies, therefore, are unlikely to help in combating even the impacts of the present 21-day lockdown.

We must plan, however, for a longer period of troubles assuming that the lockdown continues beyond 21 days even if at a reduced level of restrictions and the crisis plays out in “L� shape. The way out is to break-up the economy into small segments with less inter-segmental contact. The coronavirus mainly spreads through person-to-person contact. Such contacts take place between people from diverse areas due to foreign travel, trade and investment.

A large number of the coronavirus patients in India, for example, are those who had been working abroad in certain projects or had been pursuing studies in different

APRIL 2020 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

''

I am not happy to say this but I must.

We get access to cheap and good quality goods by global integration.

But this comes along with epidemics countries. Such contacts would be reduced if we break-up the economy into segments and discourage active contact between them. For example, Italy and Spain at the global level, and Maharashtra and Kerala at the national level have had a deeper impact of coronavirus. The impact would have been less if we had hemmed in not only Italy, Spain, Maharashtra and Kerala but all countries and states into “closed� areas and reduced the contacts between the countries and states. This would require that we find substitutes for the olives from Italy, citrus fruits from Spain, onions from Maharashtra and pepper from Kerala. Countries like Bangladesh and states like Orissa will have to develop their own factories for making steel and cars and establish tuition centers like Pune and Kota. The reduction in intersegmental trade will help us continue with economic activity in states not affected by the virus. I am essentially 30

proposing a segment-wise lockdown rather than a globalor national level lockdown.

We do not know whether the coronavirus will be eliminated or not. Prudence requires that we err on the side of caution.

The loss by unnecessarily segmenting the economy (if the virus is eliminated) will be less than the loss incurred by continued integration (if the virus continues). It will be easy to reintegrate the segments of the economy if

like coronavirus.

'' the virus is eliminated. It will be very difficult to segment the economy with every passing week if the virus continues to spread.

I am not happy to say this but I must. We get access to cheap and good quality goods by global integration. But this

APRIL 2020 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

comes along with epidemics like coronavirus. We will have to buy more expensive home-produced goods with a segmented economy. But we will have less chances of epidemics like coronavirus. This is the hard choice that we have to decide. Do we want cheap goods with more chances of pandemics; or are we willing to live with expensive goods with less chances of pandemics?

I am not arguing for making iron curtains between countries. I am arguing for lesser integration, greater self-containment and more autonomy even if the standard of living is somewhat less. Let us live without fear even if at a reduced level of income.

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Jhunjhumwala holds a BSc degree in physics, chemistry and mathematics.

He earned his PhD in food and Resource Economics from the University of Florida at the tender age of 23 years. He

joined the Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore, as Assistant Professor immediately thereafter. He lived in a slum for two years to understand poverty and organized the Trade Union at IIM during the Emergency. He resigned from the IIM and became a consultant to donor agencies like Swiss Development Cooperation, Oxfam, Care, Overseas Development Institute and others mainly on rural development and watershed issues. He writes a column on economic issues for about 50 newspapers in india. He lives on the banks of River Alaknanda in Uttarakhand on the feet of Lord Badri Vishal.

P

resident Trump’s historic visit to India on February 24, 2020, was an important step towards the partnership between the world’s largest and oldest democracies of the world.

President Trump was the sixth United States President to travel to India, and he was the first to visit Ahmedabad, Gujarat.

At the rally Namaste Trump, Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined President Trump for an unprecedented roadshow and a historic joint address before a record crowd of more than 100,000 people at the Sardar Patel Stadium.

Both Modi and Trump have expressed a vested interest in working together to overcome challenges like transnational terrorism and environmental changes.

It was a fitting welcome as Trump’s visit heralded an improved cooperation in defense procurement between the countries. After more than two decades of dedicated efforts by multiple administrations of both countries, the two heads of state were brought together by their shared values. Both PM Modi and President Trump have expressed a vested interest in working together to overcome challenges like transnational terrorism and environmental changes.

India’s nuclear program has for decades been a thorn in the side of India-US relations. A sore spot that has been further aggravated with India’s long-standing relations with Russia, a country with which the United States of America has had a difficult and complicated relationship. Russia has served as India’s defense supplier for years, a relationship that shall continue and thrive, a fact asserted by Ram Madhav of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). India’s pact with Russia remains unaffected by defense deals with the US. However, with innovation and constantly evolving technology of defense production, the US is a necessary ally in India’s fight against terrorism.

PM Modi approved India’s purchase of 24 military helicopters from US defense firm, Lockheed Martin, worth $2.6 billion. A substantial step towards Modi’s plan to tighten security across India’s borders and the fortification of its Naval forces in the Indo-Pacific region. Gurmit Singh, the former deputy chief of India’s army staff, spoke to the press about the transformation and modernization of the country’s armed forces under PM Modi’s administration to counter the forces of terrorism. Singh spoke of the importance of technologically advanced security apparatus for India to monitor and protect its assets. President Trump’s visit to India and PM Modi’s negotiations with him were aimed to

For more detailed information on this article or to view additional pictures, please visit deshvidesh.com/April2020 36

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President Trump’s visit to India and PM Modi’s negotiations with him were aimed to secure the technology and defense equipment that will allow the country’s armed forces to provide effective surveillance and monitor intelligence.

President Trump’s visit and the subsequent defense deal between the US aand Indian administrations has paved the way for trade deals. President Trump, in a statement released by the White House, asserted that Washington is negotiating and working on a “very big trade deal” with New Delhi that will be beneficial for both countries.

secure the technology and defense equipment that will allow the country’s armed forces to provide effective surveillance and monitor intelligence.

This is a testament to India’s escalating importance on the global stage of diplomatic and economic players. The steady growth of bilateral relations between India and the United States is cause for celebration. A friendship that will help foster bigger and brighter opportunities for India and its citizens.

President Trump kicked off his 36 hour visit to India with official engagements and negotiations in New Delhi. He was then escorted to Ahmedabad, the largest city in Gujarat, which is Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s home state. An evening was planned for President Trump and the First Lady to enjoy and experience the rich cultural heritage of India.

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''

Adesh’s journey brought her to Orlando along with her husband and two sons, where she has continued her work as well as doing performances, demonstrations, and collaborations in the community.

''

Get to Know:

Surabhi Adesh Musician

B

orn in India, Surabhi Adesh moved to Trinidad in the mid-1960s during her formative years. She grew up in Trinidad surrounded by music, art, literature, and culture. Given her parents were highly skilled educators in literature, languages, music, and philosophy, Adesh was surrounded by many aspects of the Indian culture. She learned early on to not only love her culture, but also preserve the

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Indian culture through the teaching of languages, prose and poetry, music, dance, and philosophy.

In 1981, Adesh moved with her family to Canada where she attended high school and college while continuing her journey in music through teaching, recording, and performing. Adesh’s Guru is her father Prof. Hari Shanker Adesh who insisted she learn as many

aspects of music as possible, including tabla.

Adesh’s well-rounded education from universities in Canada and the United States include degrees in Biology, Indian Music (focus on Sitar and Vocals), and Education.

Adesh’s journey brought her to Orlando along with her husband and two sons, where she has continued her work as well as doing performances, demonstrations, and collaborations in the community. She most enjoys listening to and performing with her two sons, who are both also accomplished musicians.

Learn more about Surabhi Adesh in our interview with her.

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How long was your training?

Learning and training is an ongoing process and the more I learn, the more I see there is to learn and experience. The curriculum I studied (in Music), first up to a bachelor’s degree level, I actually completed the vocal at age 12 (and the sitar Bachelor’s a few years later). The Master’s degree study took longer, as my family moved to Canada in 1981. My training included the beginning of teaching at age 11, both Hindi and Music.

When was your first public performance?

My first public performance was when I was about four years old. Interestingly enough, it was a dance. I performed to the live presentation of one of the many songs composed by my father, a highly acclaimed Hindi poet and music composer.

I have memories of having a fever, but still doing the dance. In fact, I also still remember my costume, made by my mother.

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How many public performances have you done so far?

I have been performing since the age of four and have done many public performances in many different settings so to put a numeric value is quite difficult, maybe impossible. I have performed on radio, television, stage, private and corporate events, at Disneyworld, at weddings, conferences, as an accompanist for visiting artists. I have done many recordings of sitar, accordion, harmonium accompaniment as well as vocal tracks. I have done recitation of my father’s poetry as well as my own. I have had the honor of performing in front of many dignitaries, religious icons and even Indian Royalty. Performances I have done have been solo, solo concerts as well as ensemble. I have done numerous lecture demonstrations in Toronto and Central Florida at UCF and other institutions in Florida. I have performed in the West Indies (Trinidad, Guyana, Suriname), India, Canada, USA, UK. I have performed Sitar, vocal and dance (up to a certain

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age). One of the most memorable experiences was a few years ago when my sons and I played at Disneyworld’s Animal Kingdom for the Jungle Book Alive with Magic show that ran for an entire summer with two shows a night each with an audience of 5000.

Who do you consider to be a mentor and why?

My mentors are my parents. While I learned from my father, Prof. Hari Shanker Adesh, it was my mother Dr. Nirmala Adesh who nurtured and helped develop my performance and skills.

In fact, she is my first teacher. They have both always guided me and advised me through their teachings and through how they live their lives and they continue to do so now.

What advice do you have for young Indian Americans who wish to pursue a career in music or the performing arts?

Figure out where your passion lies, singing, instrumental or dancing. Then learn through proper teachers. Talent alone is not enough.

Talent needs nurturing and guidance from a proper mentor/teacher. Learn to grow from correction and/or criticism. Be prepared through practice and understanding your strengths.

Understand, love and live music knowledgeably.

Your inner musical genius will then surface and lead you to success.Most importantly, be true to yourself and the art.

Success means different things to different people? What does it mean to you and how would you define it?

I would define success as the joy and contentment I get knowing that I have done what I set out to do with honesty, integrity and dignity.

Success in the work I do, means that I am able 42

to help even one person be more aware and appreciative of Indian music, or any art form, and culture. Whether it is done through direct instruction, exposure through performances, lecture demonstrations, or activities encouraging the arts,it is all about education and it is a success if even one person is enlightened. I also do a class with special needs adults through the Asian Cultural Association. When these wonderful students respond to the music and feel happy, I am successful.

Success in my life means that I can properly fulfill whatever role I am given by Bhagwan (God) be it daughter, sister, wife, mother, student, teacher or any other role. And, I hope to make my little corner of the world a little bit better and joyful.

What do you think is the secret behind your success?

There are several factors. My parents have taught me to be honest in my intentions, and the satisfaction of helping others through education and teaching by example. They have instilled in me a great awe and wonder for life and the universe and Bhagwan (God) and this is a driving force in my life. I have also been blessed with a family that supports and helps me in my work. My two sons are outstanding musicians themselves, and they help teach and perform and have been a source of great inspiration to me. My husband is our rock. He is always supportive and encouraging, and manages the technical side of our productions and events. With such a support system, it is very easy to carry through tough times and persevere. So, there is no one secret to success, but like the village that raises the child, my ‘village’ has been behind my success.

An American colleague once asked me an interesting question: “Why are Indians in the US at the forefront of a variety of fields?” What do you think?

As Indians, we are taught several things early in life such as ‘everything is temporary’, this APRIL 2020 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

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helps us deal with disappointments and helps us persevere. We are also taught that we must appreciate life and try to achieve as close to our potential as we can. I believe our cultural teachings of respect for others and for oneself, a great aural tradition, an emphasis on education are some aspects of that success. Also, the sense of identity with a rich cultural and spiritual heritage and the ability to balance eastern and western attitudes and lifestyles also help encourage progress for Indians to be at the forefront.

Who has played a crucial role in influencing the events of your life? How so?

It is difficult to choose any one person. I would have to say firstly, my parents who are also my Gurus, who have advised and supported me at every step. And, it is because of them I moved from place to place and also through them got

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many opportunities to develop and perform. Also, they arranged my marriage.

Secondly my husband who has encouraged me to always improve and become better at whatever I do. Then by extension my sons, as they grow in their musicianship inspire me to also grow and extend my work and experience and my understanding and perception of the world. All of them have been instrumental in guiding events of my life.

Favorite Quote: From Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets when Dumbledore tells Harry “It is our choices that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities.� I have seen so many people succeed by their choice to work harder than those who think talent/ability without effort will bring success.

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Favorite Book: Heidi is a childhood favorite that reminds me there is almost always a silver lining to any cloud and that pain and pleasure are in our minds, joy depends on our outlook.

The Harry Potter series as it was a rite of passage for me and my sons when they were young.

Almost anything by Dr. Deepak Chopra because our thoughts and direction change with age and so do our choices of reading material.

Favorite Indian Movie: Zindagi Na Milegee Dobaaraa because it essentially reminds me to live and enjoy each day to the fullest.

Katyaar Kaalzaat Ghusli is a beautifully made movie of the Naatya Sangeetstage drama and it reminds aspirants of music that the music is above all else.

Favorite Non-Indian Movie: The Sound of Music as I have always admired Julie Andrews.

Day of Service at South Florida Hindu Temple

Photo Courtesy by: Chirag Patel

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n February 23, 2020, I was lucky enough to be a volunteer during the annual Day of Service at South Florida Hindu Temple. The day is dedicated to Hindus coming together to perform Seva, selfless service. It is about helping our community because most of us are very fortunate and blessed to have food and basic necessities. To me, the day was not about doing work to get community service or working to brag to others that I helped the community,

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but it was simply about helping my fellow citizens and community because they need it. Community service or any service should not be about meeting a requirement or doing it to get a reward or prize. Gandhi ji often said, “Service to Man is Service to God.� God gave us all our food and basic resources for life. Since we have had the privilege of being given a surplus of these items, we should give the extra to those who were not given enough.

This is like giving back the

extra to God as shown by the quote because God gave us more than we need so we should give back to him in order for others to get an adequate amount. Our dharma as Hindus is to do the righteous deed, the right deed. The right thing is to support and aid those in need whenever possible, not to work for selfish reasons. This event brought our community together not to meet friends or party, but to work as a collective team in order to better serve the rest of

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About the Author

Yash Patel is a Sophomore at Cypress Bay High School and a Yuvak in the South Florida Hindu Temple BalVihar Program.

Photo Courtesy by: Chirag Patel society. Our culture is heavily centered around food, so to me, this event was a great way to spread our love into the entire community, and to share our principles of Seva and generosity.

Co-sponsored By Gummakonda Reddy Foundation

He has a passion to make a difference in the community especially ensuring that noone should go hungry. He is currently aspiring to become a neurosurgeon.

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ebruary 23, 2020, was not just a usual day of prayers at the South Florida Hindu Temple; it was a day of Seva or selfless service. That morning the temple was swarming with devotees of all ages joyfully working hard preparing food packets for the needy. It was a wonderful sight. Added divine music made this karma yoga very blissful. South Florida Hindu Temple is proud to have prepared 25,000 food packets and 250 hygiene bags, which were distributed to the needy. The Temple has made this project an annual event, and we are very grateful to all the volunteers and the generous donors to make this project very successful.

Dr Vinod Patel Chairman, South Florida Hindu Temple.

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Poetry Corner In honor of April being National Poetry Month, we are excited to share a few poems written by Megha Sood and Aarohi Talati

Poems by Megha Sood Heritage Ask a child, ask a butterfly Those shriveled wrinkled fingers passing on that family album with a fleeting touch has passed on the generations under our feet Those quivering shaking voices singing the lullaby at night and the sparkling stories jumped hoops from generations, is scattering the wisdom worth eons in mere minutes Those bony taloned hands singing and crocheting the praises of the holy ancestors is bringing back live the drawing etched in the old forgotten caves Those bay leaf cinnamon-laced fingers doused and soaked turning the wrapped yellow broken paper of centuries-old recipes is keeping the taste alive in the dying taste buds That wisdom in the scriptures spanning the gates of times Our heritage, Our roots, Our road to salvation.

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Every small step counts.

Every small gesture matters.

Kindness comes in all forms.

Accept and embrace it when you see it.

Pass it forward. It is like the flowing river, shaping and changing the lives of those who come along its way.

Keep flowing and Keep growing.

Life never stops from growing nor from making mistakes.

You stop and stagnate like the ditch of stinking water.

Flow like a waterfall. A beautiful sight in its glory.

Life is movement.

Change is a necessary transformation.

Ask a child, ask a butterfly.

About Megha Sood Megha Sood is a two time State-level winner of the NJ Poetry Contest 2018/2019, a national level poetry finalist in Poetry Matters Prize 2019, Honorable mention in Pangolin Poetry Prize 2019, and Finalist in Adelaide Literary Award 2019. She is a contributing member at Free Verse Revolution, Whisper and the Roar and Poetry editor at Ariel Chart and Mookychick.

Sood has over 350 works in journals and featured in 35 print anthologies by the US, UK, Australian, and Canadian Press.

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Poems by Aarohi Talati Dance of Letters and Music of Words The elegant script

This loneliness transcended through worlds,

of calligraphy on yellowed paper,

appearing in the music,

marred only by

the music of the words,

the spots of tears

at which letters danced

that had once been.

and black ink cried.

The curves in every letter,

The music of the words,

distorted through the glass,

at which paper groaned

a plea for help,

to take the weight

an attempt at survival.

of letters both harsh and soft,

Apart, the letters were beautiful,

dancing forever.

but together, dangerous.

The loops of black ink played a dance with each other, twisting and interlocking, moving gracefully.

Yet there was no mistaking the music that played, of darkness and depression and loneliness.

The loneliness of a man, who had sent out a message, a note in a bottle, in hope of rescue.

The loneliness of a man, stranded at sea, all those he loved dead all those he craved far.

The loneliness of a man,

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Yet the sacrifice of the paper and the joy of the letters, the sadness of the ink and the music of the words, did nothing for the lonely man who was long gone when the note in the bottle had found a rescue.

The lonely man had gone, cursing the note in the bottle for listening to its music and not to his desperation.

When the man was finally found all that remained was a skeleton, clutching another bottle, another pen,

who hoped to

and another paper,

use his dearest possession

in the hopes that they could do

to save himself.

what the first could not,

The loneliness of a man,

and

whose dearest possession was faith,

stop

disguised as a piece of paper,

the

a pen, and an empty bottle.

music.

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an angel cried the light in my life came from the lightning born of the violent storm inside of me. my heartbeat followed the rhythm of the thunder, the waves crashing against my soul. i thought i was free (my hands weren’t tied) but i couldn’t see the chains that weighed down my legs. my eyes were open— yet i was watching the world blind. an angel couldn’t endure my pain and she cried for me and as her tears fell on my face i wondered why my own tears had never been this sweet. they were the stardust that i had never known i craved. i’ve felt now, the sun on my lips. it passed them, went onto my soul as the silver and gold flames trickled down my throat i felt the warmth that i thought i always had

galaxies (my krishna) when i looked up at you i saw stars in your eyes and galaxies through your parted lips as if the entire universe was ingrained into your being. it was then that i made you my world— you were heaven’s and i was yours.

A found poem from City of Heavenly Fire

by Cassandra Clare Displayed in deadly fans of gold and steel and silver, the glow of the broken moons.

Climbing roses in red and gold and orange; waiting to be consumed by the fire like a medieval saint.

Death on death, and blood in the streets.

Motorcycles gleaming with chrome and bone and onyx, decked in silver armor.

Infinite sorrow; the last to kneel.

A pride that transcended the emptiness of gestures.

Heaven’s fire.

Kiss of desperation as diaphanous as a sheet of ice; Insubstantial as air.

The wishes of our hearts are weapons; staring into the dark heart of a black hole.

Dark in the land under the hill, a tattoo of disbelief.

The purr and rumble of the dark; pepper thrown into the heart of a fire.

An artist of lies, ready to stab and to betray.

Modern Snow White in blood, char, and ice; the last of the embers an orchestra of fire.

About Aarohi Talati Aarohi Talati, 17, is a senior at American Heritage. This fall, she will attend the University of Miami and is planning on majoring in microbiology and immunology to make her way to med school. One of her greatest passions is writing— she writes often in her free time, ranging from short poetry to short stories to chapters out of a novel. Singing and dancing are also both things she enjoys, and she is almost done with both the Bharatnatyam curriculum and Hindustani classical music curriculum.

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Home Activities During Coronavirus

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ou may find yourself having to practice social distancing this month and that may be a bit difficult since we are not used to being at home for so long. So, what can we do?

It can actually be more fun than you think!

There are a number of activities that you can do with the people you are quarantined with. Take this opportunity to get to know each other a little better. Here’s an example of exploratory questions you can discuss when you’re sitting together or at meal times.

• If you woke up and had a superpower, what would it be?

• If someone could tell you your future, what would you want to know?

• If you could find out how many times you did something in your life, what would you want to know?

• What movie/TV show/documentary did you learn so much from?

• What is a topic that you wish you could learn more about?

• If you woke up and you were a dinosaur, which dinosaur would you be?

• If you could change your name, what would you change it to?

• If you had to eat the same thing every day for every meal, what would it be?

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These conversation starters can help turn this difficult period into an inquisitive and interesting way to get to know each other and to have a laugh!

Another great idea is to create a Bingo chart based on a movie or television show you are going to binge watch. For example, if you decide to go through a series such as Harry Potter or The Avengers, you could have spots on the Bingo board such as Gryffindor makes a Quidditch goal or Captain America uses his shield. The same works if you are binge-watching a show. If you have Netflix, check out the show Ramayan! It has 56 episodes and because we know some of the history, Bingo slots are easier to create! (By the way, the show is AMAZING!)

This is also a great time to spend time on hobbies that you may not have had time for before such as sewing, reading, yoga, meditation, pranayama, cooking, or even listening to a podcast.

Just yesterday, our family played Family Feud (a game I found at 5-Below for $5!). Board games, card games, and verbal games are a great way to pass time and enjoy each other’s company. If you do not have any physical board games, there are plenty of games on the phone that can be used such as Head’s Up or you can create your own selection for games such as Pictionary or Charades!

And don’t forget to video call your loved ones through FaceTime, Whatsapp, Zoom, or Hangouts to keep in touch and give support during this isolation period.

This list is definitely not exhaustive, but I hope it gets your creative juices flowing.

Use this downtime to your advantage! Relax, de-stress, and do fun things that you may not have had time for due to work and other responsibilities!

Don’t forget to wash your hands often. Stay safe.

About the Author

Chahna Tailor is a Yoga Instructor and Ayurvedic Health Counselor with a background in occupational therapy. Chahna completed her yoga training in Rishikesh and recently completed an Ayurveda internship in Kannur, Kerala.

Chahna’s company, Namaskar To You provides yoga, pranayama,meditation, and Ayurveda services. . She is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Ayurvedic Medicine.

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Coronavirus threat delays Sooryavanshi and 83 joined by Ajay Devgan’s DCP Bajirao Singham and Ranveer Singh’s Sangram Bhalerao as they protect the country against the malicious forces of terrorism.

Singh and Devgan reprise their iconic roles from Rohit Shetty’s blockbusters Simmba and Singham respectively.

W

ith the outbreak of coronavirus and more than 52 confirmed cases in India, Reliance Entertainment has chosen to delay the release of two of its biggest films for this year. Rohit Shetty’s Sooryavanshi starring Akshay Kumar as the titular ATS officer is rumored to have been pushed to release on April 10, 2020. Meanwhile, the Ranveer Singh film 83, directed by Kabir Khan is slated for release on May 29, 2020.

Meanwhile, Kabir Khan’s 83 traces Kapil Dev’s journey as a cricketer, the firebrand captain that led the Indian cricket team to its first World Cup, and the loving husband and family man.

Ranveer Singh as Kapil Dev shares screen space with his wife Deepika Padukone as she portrays Dev’s wife Romi Devi.

However, with the fear and danger of coronavirus increasing throughout the country and world, Bollywood fans will have to wait for a bit longer for the two films to reach cinema halls.

But if Rohit Shetty and Kabir Khan’s track record of delivering action-filled blockbusters are anything to go by, it is sure to be well worth the wait.

The multi-starrer Sooryavanshi is Rohit Shetty’s latest installment of his cop universe and brings together three of Indian cinema’s most popular leading men. Akshay Kumar as D.C.P Veer Sooryavanshi is 60

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Ahmed Khan praises Kangana Ranaut after backlash

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hmed Khan’s derogatory statement about films with female protagonists failing at the box-office led to furious social media backlash. After the release of his directorial Baaghi 3 on March 6, Khan spoke out against the critical review of the film as lacking both plot and logic. He spoke highly of the huge business that the film has been making at the box office.

Khan went on to deem Taapsee Pannu’s Thappad and Kangana Ranaut’s upcoming movie Dhaakad as commercial failures due to the strong female actors in those films.

Rangoli Ranaut took to social media via twitter to dispute Khan’s claims and defend the need for strong female characters. The fury and backlash that followed Khan and Ranaut’s statements led to much discussion both on and off social media. In an effort to control the escalating situation, Khan released a statement claiming that his words were taken out of context. He further clarified that he is

a great admirer of Kangana Ranaut’s work calling her a “female Baaghi.”

In his statement, Khan spoke of Kangana Ranaut as a brilliant and powerful actor and the only actor capable of pulling off a female led action film. He expressed a desire to work with the talented actress in the future. Ranaut is yet to comment on Khan’s statements which is to be expected as she is undergoing extensive training for her role in Thalaivi. Kangana Ranaut will be seen next on screen in Dhaakad delivering high-octane combat and action movies.

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Ibrahim’s pictures remind us of a younger Saif

Chinese Medium after Hindi and Angrezi

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cclaimed film producer Dinesh Vijan recently shared his intention to produce Chinese Medium after the release of the upcoming movie Angrezi Medium. Tackling the important matter of education with levity, humor, and heartfelt emotions, Hindi Medium starring Irrfan Khan and Saba Qamar has become a cult classic since its release in 2017. Its sequel Angrezi Medium is slated for release on March 13, 2020, and will see the long-awaited return of Irrfan Khan to the big screen. He plays a single father to debutant Radhika Madan.

ictures surfaced online of Ibrahim Ali Khan’s first professional photoshoot and his striking resemblance to his father Saif Ali Khan has fans swooning with nostalgia. Posing for the cameras in a black hoodie in one picture and a white polo neck sweater in another, Ibrahim looks like a replica of a younger Saif.

Referring to his son as the “better looking Pataudi,” Saif has often expressed his support if Ibrahim were to choose to act. Despite the impressive acting lineage that Ibrahim comes from, Saif is firm on his son completing his higher education.

Sara Ali Khan, Ibrahim’s sister is equally supportive of her sibling’s ambitions to become an actor. The actress of Simmba speaks fondly of her brother’s deep interest in the process of filmmaking and his pragmatic approach towards the craft. Ibrahim is grounded and well-aware of the hard work that goes behind the glitz and glamour of Bollywood.

Ibrahim debuts as a professional model as he comfortably poses for a clothing brand in pictures that have sent much of India’s female population at twitter. However, it isn’t his first time facing down the lens of a camera. Ibrahim, alongside sister Sara Ali Khan, appeared on the cover of a fashion magazine recently. Effortlessly charming, stylish, and an illustrious lineage of acclaimed actors, Ibrahim Ali Khan has all the best cards in the game. Audiences await his grand debut on the big screen with bated breath.

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Hindi Medium was extremely well received by international audiences, especially audiences in China. Language as a barrier to education is a problem that resonates deeply with many Chinese parents. Vijan is certain that children and young adults from China travelling abroad for higher education and the differences in language and cultural norms that they face is a solid premise for a profound and witty film.

Angrezi Medium takes the narrative from smalltown India to cosmopolitan London. The franchise can now expand to address problems with education that both parents and children face across countries and generations. Vijan, a longtime friend and collaborator of Irrfan Khan, hopes to cast the incredibly talented actor for the rest of the franchise and showcase the different nuances that education has on different generations. A creative choice that Irrfan’s fans will undoubtedly support.

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Uttaran star Rashami Desai joins Naagin 4 cast Rashami Desai is featured in the latest promo for Naagin 4 and is slated to play the role Shalaka. The actress of Uttaran fame was last seen on Bigg Boss 13. Though Desai didn’t win the celebrity reality show, she won hearts and admiration with her composed and calm dignity in an otherwise highly emotional show.

A shot of Desai on the sets of Naagin 4 was shared on social media by the show’s creative producer confirming she will be seen in upcoming episodes. It was rumored that

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Desai would play Nayantara, the role that Jasmin Bhasin, her former Dil Se Dil Tak co-star, had played before. However, it has been confirmed that Desai is slated to play the role Shalaka, a young modern girl.

Whether Desai’s Shalaka has any connections to Nayantara remains to be seen.

The supernatural Naagin 4 led by actors Nia Sharma and Vijayendra Kumeria in their respective roles of Brinda and Dev is set to get spicier with the introduction of Desai’s character. Shalaka, introduced

in the show as Dev’s second wife after a time leap of a year.

Meanwhile, Nia’s character, Brinda seeks revenge from those who murdered her mother Manyata.

Desai’s Shalaka is sure to create a distance between Dev and Brinda as the latter ruthlessly plans to avenge her mother’s death. Whatever the on-screen dynamic between Nia and Rashami’s characters, all is well in real life as Nia took to social media to welcome Rashami to the cast.

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Parth Samthaan celebrates birthday with a bang

Parth Samthaan celebrated his 29th birthday in style with his Kasautii Zindagii Kay co-stars.

Showered with love and warm wishes by his close friends, Samthaan celebrated his birthday on March 11 with cake and champagne. Amongst the starstudded guest list were actors Erica Fernandes, Hina Khan, Pooja Bannerjee and Shubhaavi Choksey.

Samthaan shot to stardom with his portrayal of Manik Malhotra in MTV’s Kaisi Yeh Yaariyan. As the flawed yet lovable Manik, Samthaan won young hearts with his boyish good looks and effortless charm. Kaisi Yeh Yaariyan in its three seasons since its inception followed the journey of Manik and Nandini’s friendship and love story. The show with its young and talented cast was a youth favorite as it dealt with college romance and the quest for true love.

Samthaan was then cast as Anurag Basu in the reboot of the cult classic Kasautii Zindagii Kay opposite Erica Fernandes’s Prerna. Erica and Parth, tasked with the responsibility of bringing two of Indian television’s most beloved characters to life, enamored audiences with their chemistry and acting skills. Close friends in real life, Erica and Parth celebrated his birthday together with other fellow actors from Kasautii Zindagii Kay. The heartthrob received sweet and heartfelt birthday messages from his many fans through social media. Parth was deeply touched and completely bowled over when fans sent him a Money Heist themed birthday cake. He took to social media to thank his fans and share his special day with them.

APRIL 2020 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

Akanksha Puri threatens to take police action against Paras

Akanksha Puri and Paras Chhabra’s breakup has been debated and discussed in the public eye for a long time now. The former couple’s complicated and tempestuous relationship has reached a particularly low point with Puri’s threats to take police action against Chhabra.

Chhabra, a finalist on the 13th season of Bigg Boss, can currently be seen on the ColorsTV reality show, MujhseShaadiKaroge.

It was Chhabra’s comments about Puri and his comparison of a fellow contestant to his ex that incited the statement that Puri recently released.

In her statement to the press, Puri forbids Paras Chhabra from using her name. She firmly states her distaste at being associated with Chhabra and claims to have closed the chapter on her relationship with him.

Chhabra lashed out at Akanksha earlier on social media and in print by calling her “stupid.” This was in response to Puri’s interview announcing their breakup after Chhabra’s closeness to fellow Bigg Boss 13 contestant Mahira Sharma made headlines throughout the country.

Akanksha Puri has reportedly moved on from the public humiliation and fallout of their relationship and refuses to be either contacted or spoken of by Chhabra. Puri asserts that Chhabra’s use of her name without her consent has had difficult consequences in other parts of her life. Her professional prospects and not just her private life have suffered due to Chhabra’s callous comments. Puri intends to take legal action against Chhabra if he hurts her reputation further. Paras is yet to comment to these latest accusations and threats.

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Ankit Siwach takes a walk on the dark side in Beyhadh 2

Ankit Siwach known for his roles in Manmohini and Rishton Ka Chakravyuh is set to return to television with a negative role in Beyhadh 2. Siwach, who got married last month to childhood girlfriend Nupur Bhatia, returns for his third collaboration with acclaimed producer Prateek Sharma.

Beyhadh 2 starring Jennifer Winget, Ashish Chowdhry and Shivin Narang is a dark and twisted tale of Maya Jaisingh’s quest for love and revenge.

Maya portrayed with gusto by Winget is neither meek nor submissive. An intelligent woman hellbent on her obsession and traumatized by childhood trauma, Maya is an anti-heroine like none Indian television has seen before or since.

In a cast of deeply flawed and complicated characters, Ankit Siwach is set to take audiences by storm with his nuanced role with shades of grey. Siwach hinted at his character’s past with Maya and how it ended in a manner that is as far from a fairy tale as possible.

To enter a show’s narrative when Winget, Narang, and Chowdhry have already established their characters must be intimidating. However, Siwach is reportedly excited to add a bit of spice to the story and act in his first role as an anti-hero.

He seems particularly excited to share screen space with his friend Jennifer whose acting skills he highly praises. Winget’s Maya might just find her match in Siwach’s villian.

For more detailed information on this article or to view additional pictures, please visit deshvidesh.com/April2020 66

Harshad Arora confirms relationship but denies marriage rumors

MayaviMaling co-stars Harshad Arora and Aparna Kumar made headlines when they announced their romantic relationship in 2018.

It was shocking for audiences because the pair play mother and son on screen. However, despite the controversy and curiosity surrounding their relationship since the initial announcement both Arora and Kumar have been private about it.

A recent social media post on Kumar’s Instagram of the smitten couple has led to rumors about an upcoming marriage. What caught everyone’s attention and caused the rumors was the sindoor on Aparna’s forehead.

Arora dismissed it by revealing that it was simply makeup from shooting her show. When asked further about their plans to marry, Arora assured his fans that they will be informed when they make that important decision.

Arora shot to fame with his role as Zain Abdullah in Beintehaa. He then went on to star as Angad in 2018’s Mayavi Malang on the sets of which he met Aparna who played his mother on the show. She now appears as Iravati Parikh on the fan favorite Naagin 4.

Arora and Kumar’s special friendship on the sets of Mayavi Malang was much admired but sometimes questioned. The couple, however, has been going strong in their relationship, supporting each other’s hectic careers and accomplishments. The lovely couple can’t seem to get enough of each other and fans await the day they announce their wedding date.

APRIL 2020 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

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Advertisers’ Index ACCOUNTANT ENV’s Accounting.............................................................................. 59 Vakharia Bhupen CPA....................................................................... 63

House of Spices................................................................................ 73 India Bazaar...................................................................................... 73 Patel Brothers.................................................................................... 74

ADVERTISING Desh Videsh - Wedding Resource Edition........................................ 43 Desh Videsh Advertising.................................................................... 77

INSURANCE AGENTS American Family Insurance-Lilburn................................................... 75 Insurance Depot................................................................................ 74

ASTROLOGER Astrologer By Priya............................................................................ 49 Astrology & ESP Psychic Readings By Shanti.................................. 54

IT CONSULTING Contract Engineers............................................................................ 53

ATTORNEYS Dehra Miotke..................................................................................... 63 Neelofer Syed ESQ........................................................................... 33 BANKING Quantum National Bank.................................................................... 29

JEWELERS Bhindi Jewelers Inc............................................................................. 9 Devam................................................................................................. 2 Legacy Jewelers................................................................................ 79 Malani Jewelers................................................................................. 78 MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTION Desh Videsh Media Group................................................................ 72

BANQUET HALLS Hilton Charlotte Center City................................................................. 7 Hilton Orlando.................................................................................. 4-5

P R COMPANY The Arpan Group............................................................................... 13

BEAUTICIANS-COSMETICIAN Anju Thaker....................................................................................... 63 Dimple Threading & Skin Care Studio............................................... 74

PHOTOGRAPHER Anand Event Services....................................................................... 31 Krishna Video & Photo Studio........................................................... 75 Sai Photography................................................................................ 51

BOOK PUBLISHERS Desh Videsh Publishing..................................................................... 69 BOUTIQUES Devam................................................................................................. 2 BRIDAL SHOW MyShadi Bridal Expo.................................................................... 37-80 CREDIT CARD PROCESSING North American Bancard....................................................................11 DECORATOR Anand Event Services....................................................................... 31 Dreams To Reality............................................................................. 25 Linen Connection Decor.................................................................... 75 Nikun Events..................................................................................... 59 NJP Events & Design........................................................................ 32 Occasions By Shangri-la................................................................... 15 DISC JOCKEY Awaaz Entertainment........................................................................ 53 Dudha Productions............................................................................ 59

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E-MARKETING The Arpan Group............................................................................... 13

RESTAURANT/CATERING 5th Element Indian Restaurant.......................................................... 12 Ashoka Indian Cuisine....................................................................... 36 Chat Patti Indian Vegetarian Restaurant........................................... 73 Kabab hut.......................................................................................... 73 The Mughals Restaurant................................................................... 73

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TRAVEL AGENCY ExploraTours..................................................................................... 14

FOOD DISTRIBUTOR Sky Speed Distributor........................................................................ 47 FUNERAL SERVICES Trinity Memorial Gardens.................................................................. 53 Wages & Sons Funeral Home & Crematory...................................... 21 GIFT ARTICLES Ayurveda & Puja Hut......................................................................... 49 GROCERY Apna Bazaar Longwood.................................................................... 73 Ashraf Halal Meat Center.................................................................. 73 House of India-Greenacres............................................................... 73

WEB DESIGN/E-COMMERCE Global AMS.................................................................................. 39-67 WEB HOSTING SERVICES Global AMS....................................................................................... 39 WEDDING BUSINESS MARKETING Desh Videsh Media Group Inc................................................. 68-70-71 The Arpan Group............................................................................... 13 WEDDING INVITATIONS Invites & Events................................................................................. 23 YOGA Namaskar To You.............................................................................. 57

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Amish Thakkar - Fine Art Production LLC Desh-Videsh – The Wedding Issue is a publication that understands a wedding should be as unforgettably unique as the couple getting married.

Seema Samji - Zamana Lifestyles Photography “Desh-Videsh – is one of the best put together magazines in the industry. The organized layout and wonderful design aspects of the magazine make it simply stunning. It keeps readers coming back for more and keeping the magazine.

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