August 2022 edition of Desi Australia Digital Magazine

AUGUST 2022

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NEWS NEWSI IHEALTH HEALTHI IFASHION COMMUNITY I FESTIVALS NEWS I FESTIVALS I YOGA I IENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENTI ILIFE TRAVEL STYLE

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Happy Indian independenceDay!

From Chris Minns and your State Labor MP’s We wish you and your family a joyful Indian Independence Day!

Chris Minns MP

Steve Kamper MP

Daniel Mookhey MLC

Julia Finn MP

Stephen Bali MP

Hugh McDermott MP

Jason Li MP

Sophie Cotsis MP

Edmond Atalla MP

Michael Daley MP

Marjorie O’Neill MP

Paul Scully MP

Guy Zangari MP

Member for Rockdale Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism P 9597 1414

Member for Prospect P 9756 4766

Member for Maroubra P 9349 6440

Member of the Legislative Council P 9230 2736

Member for Strathfield P 9747 1711

Member for Coogee P 9398 1822

Member for Granville P 9637 1656

Member for Canterbury P 9718 1234

Member for Wollongong P 4226 5700

NSW Labor Leader Member for Kogarah P 9587 9684

Member for Blacktown P 9671 5222

Member for Mount Druitt P 9625 6770

Member for Fairfield P 9726 9323

Authorised by Chris Minns, Steve Kamper, Daniel Mookhey, Julia Finn, Stephen Bali, Hugh McDermott, Jason Li, Sophie Cotsis, Edmond Atalla, Michael Daley, Marjorie O’Neill, Paul Scully, and Guy Zangari. Funded using Parliamentary Entitlements.

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75th Indian Independence Day

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CONTENTS

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Om’s Road Map 24 Sri event night cum Award night Christmas in July 30 Share’s Opportunity to re-connect, reengage, be inspired and enjoy friendship

You Should Consider 32 Why Exercise As An Alternative To Medicine Years: 34 Twenty The War in Afghanistan Honour 37 International for former Multicultural Chief office in Mumbai 08 NSW open for business

Royal Punjabi Dinner 46 Fifth 2022, with Kaur B Live in Concert

Raksha Bandhan :-

Relationship 10 AofBittersweet a sister and a brother

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PUBLISHER Desi Media Group (Desi Australia Pty Ltd)

Editor-in-chief Arti Banga

NSW Editor: Harmohan Walia

Sales and Marketing: Dimple Deez

Victoria Editor: Daljeet Bakshi

Queensland Editor: Priya Singh

ACT Editor: Rajni Ghai Malhotra

Western Australia Editor: Ankita Tandon

South Australia Editor: Daljeet Bakshi

Designer

Ravi Mathur

Address: Desi Australia Pty Ltd PO Box 102, Casula, NSW 2170 Email : info@DesiAustralia.com

Mob: 0433121339

Disclaimer: All rights reserved. Do not re-use any content and photo from Desi Australia without the prior written permission from the editor. All the material published in Desi Australia, including articles, features, fillers, advertisements, and all other contents, are published in good faith, and the editor or the Desi Australia magazine cannot be held liable for any errors or omissions. All material is published on the understanding that it is copyright free, and Desi Australia accepts no liability for any subsequent copyright issues. We also cannot accept responsibility for and do not endorse views expressed by the contributors.

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Hello Everyone, This year Indian’s around the globe are celebrating the 75 Glorious Year ’s of India’ Independence and we will witness the Indian flag raising ceremony and celebrations in many cities across Australia.

This momentous occasion is a celebration of the hopes and aspirations of over 1.3 billion Indians and our diverse Indian diaspora with a vast footprint in different parts of the world.

The month of August also celebrates the sweet and bitter relationship of brother and sister and Indian’s celebrate it as Raksha Bandan.

In this edition we have tried to connect with the

AUGUST I 2022

Arti Banga

Editor-in-Chief

events, stories and celebrations across the major cities of Australia. If you have a story that you want to reach to the wider community then please send us an email on info@DesiAustralia.com Stay safe and stay healthy.

DesiAustralia.com “Keeping you connected”

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Australia News

NSW office in Mumbai open for business Trade between India and NSW is set to increase with the official opening of the NSW Government Office in Mumbai.

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SW businesses seeking trade and investment opportunities with emerging economic powerhouse India, will have the benefit of a dedicated NSW trade and investment hub, with the opening of the NSW Government Office Mumbai in the thriving city’s Bandra Kurla Complex business precinct.

and welcoming Indian students and tourists back to the state.

NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet today officially opened the new Mumbai office solidifying the state’s on-the-ground presence aimed at promoting NSW exports, boosting investment

“India is a key Indo-Pacific partner to Australia and an economic juggernaut. NSW is proud to partner with India’s government and business community to drive greater prosperity for the

“Our strong relationship with India is underpinned by shared values and interests, and today marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter of trade and investment relations between India and NSW,” Mr Perrottet said.

people of our two nations.”

“Increasing NSW’s trade presence here will ensure our state is front of mind as India continues its economic rise. Today we open up a world of trade and investment opportunities for NSW businesses and workers.”

In 2020-21 India was NSW’s third-largest source of international students, sixth largest source of tourists and 11th largest two-way trading partner, with two-way merchandise trade reaching $4.6 billion.

Minister for Enterprise, Investment and Trade Stuart Ayres said the office will work to deliver direct benefits for NSW by attracting Indian investments in NSW, helping boost business opportunities to benefit the local economy.

“India is NSW’s most important business partner, with significant export opportunities across a range of sectors including food and beverage, education and edtech, health and medtech and technology,” Mr Ayres said.

“We have been working closely with our local businesses to support their export and expansion to India and these efforts will be boosted by the

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Australia News

opening of the Mumbai office.”

To boost awareness of Investment NSW’s presence in India, a new strategic marketing campaign is now live, operating across digital platforms including LinkedIn and in print in India’s leading daily newspaper The Economic Times.

Vish Padmanabhan, NSW’s Senior Trade and Investment Commissioner to India and the Middle East, said his team will help NSW businesses take advantage of the new

Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA) bilateral trade agreement.

“I’m honoured and excited to lead this office and team during a time of great opportunity for the state. NSW is eager to grow its trade and investment with India under the AI-ECTA agreement – an interim step towards a full free trade agreement, which will benefit our food and agribusiness, mines and minerals, technology and education sectors significantly,” Mr Padmanabhan said.

Commemorating the

76 th

Indian Independence Day Clr Jordan Lane C I T Y O F R Y D E M AYO R

Clr Shweta Deshpande CITY OF RYDE Customer Service Centre 1 Pope Street, Ryde (within Top Ryde City shopping centre) P: 9952 8222 E: cityofryde@ryde.nsw.gov.au

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/CityofRyde www.ryde.nsw.gov.au

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Festivals

Raksha Bandhan :-

A Bittersweet Relationship of a sister and a brother

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aksha Bandhan is celebrated in India. On this occasion sisters tie a thread popularly known as Rakhi on their brother’s wrist.

This thread symbolizes protection of the the and care of a sister. This festival majorly falls on the last day of Hindu Lunar calender which mostly in the month of August.

In Sanskrit Raksha Bandhan means The bond of protection and care. This festival is rooted in Hindu Culture but is not limited till Hindus and Sikhs and is also celebrated by the Buddhists of Nepal. And is also

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performed by Christians from past few years.

ma or Rishitarpani and is performed by both Hindus and Buddhists.

Traditional Esteem:Different regions have different accreditation about this beautiful festival. Some are as follows:-

North India, you can see the sky full of colourful kites on this day and the sisters trying Rakhis on their brothers wrists.

Maharashtra, it is known as Narali Poornima also called the coconut day.

On this day the people of this region worship Lord Varuna and offer coconut to the sea to seek blessing of the Lord. And then the sisters tie Rakhi to their brothers.

Nepal, it is known as Janai Poorni-

AUGUST I 2022

Orissa, it is known as Jhulan Purnima and the people here worship Lord Krishna and

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Festivals

Radha on this day then sisters tie rakhi to their brothers for their protection.

Mythology and History:Raksha Bandhan has a special mentions at various points in the Indian mythology and history:Creation of Santoshi Maa:- it is said that once on the occasion Rakhi the son of Lord Ganesha I.e. Shubha and Labha told him that they also want a sister who can tie them a rakhi so the Lord created Santoshi Maa from the divine flames of his wives Riddhi and Siddhi.

to this Krishna promised her that he would always help her whenever she will need help. Then Krishna helped Daupadi during her disrobe, making her saree neverending. Hence saving her from embarrassment and giving her protection when she needed it the most.

help and sought protection from Bahadur Shah. Humayun accepted the rakhi and sent his troops to Chittor for Rani’s help.

Arvind Pal Singh Mandair introduced the term rakhi as a protection to farmers from the Mughals and Afghans in exchange of sharing a small cut from their produce.

Rakhi is performed by many people all around the world. It is considered as a secular festival and is bounded till blood relations. It is a physical symbol of emotions. The emotion is love, affection and care.

Rani Karnavati sent a rakhi to emperor Humayun requesting him to

Lord Krishna And Draupadi:once Lord Krishna was fetching sugarcanes and in this process his finger got hurt and started bleeding as Draupadi was present there she quickly went to Krishna and tied his finger with a piece of her saree so that the bleeding stops. In return

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There are numerous incidents and various stories related to Raksha Bandhan.

“Our Siblings. They resemble us enough to make all their differences confusing, no matter what we choose to make of this, we are cast in relation to them our whole lives long.”

– Susan Scarf Merrell

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Cover Story

A Very Special

Diamond Jubilee this one world that can no longer be split into isolated fragments”.

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By: Poornima Menon

n the eve of Independence, 75 years ago when Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, delivered his famous Tryst with Destiny speech, I wonder if he had envisaged the India of today. While we generally quote his lines about India awakening to freedom while the world sleeps; I would like to quote these lines as they are as relevant, if not more, today as they were in 1947, “And so we have to labour and to work, and to work hard, to give reality to our dreams. Those dreams are for India, but they are also for the world, for all the nations and peoples are too closely knit together today for any one of them to imagine that it can live apart. Peace is said to be indivisible, so is freedom, so is prosperity now, and also is disaster in

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I am a proud Indian Australian. And despite everything sceptics may say, I revel in the richness of my culture and my heritage. The Indianness in me is so deep rooted that even today, 19 years after having left the country, the thought about the country and her people warm my heart. And the Indian National Anthem gives me goosebumps. India has been on a rollercoaster ride since 15 August 1947. For a country who is 75 years young we have achieved milestones despite all odds. When the British left India, tattered, torn and crippling, they had thought that the country would continue to crumble and fall and fail.

But we picked ourselves up, dusted off the mire of bondage that had not succeeded in damaging our spirits and got to the task of nation building. Over the last 75 years we used our unique cultural diversity and strong civilizational roots to create a brand that is well respected and a force to reckon with today. No other colonised country has made the strides we have and the credit of this goes to the people of India and their re-

AUGUST I 2022

silience. Our growth is an example and inspiration to the rest of the world.

India’s contribution to the world has not been mean by any standards. Apart from the Indian intelligentsia who hold key positions in various parts of the globe, the post-independence journey includes expansions in diverse fields like agriculture, space and nuclear technology, aryurveda and naturopathy, IT and biotechnology to name but a few.

I am not a politically inclined person.

For me it is not the party in power, but the core group of people elected by the

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Cover Story

masses, governing the nation that matter. It is great to know

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about India’s move towards self-sustainability, India’s move towards an “Aatmanirbhar Bharat”. It gave me great joy to hear and read about “Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav”. An initiative of the Government of India, this grand festival not only celebrates and commemorates 75 years of our independence, but also pays tribute to the glorious history of our people, our culture and our many achievements. This Mahotsav is a dedication to the people of India to have brought her thus far in her journey towards progression through their sheer grit and will to succeed and hold within them the power

AUGUST I 2022

and potential to move her into the next phase of her growth.

I have seen a number of small yet significant changes, especially the general cleanliness across most states in the country. The paid public toilets have made a massive difference. This has made travelling to different parts of the country less cumbersome. My last visit to India was in 2019. The cleanliness on the railway platforms in general and the filth-free roads were indeed some pleasant sights. It showed a shift in the mindset of the common man which is a

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Cover Story

colossal change. The path to transformation and growth has to happen at the grassroots level. While India was cantering towards successful change a few stumbling blocks were thrown her way from within the country and also from across the border. But she manoeuvred through these with deftness that is only seen in someone who is keen to move forward, and not be pulled back.

As part of the Independence Day 2022 celebrations, on Saturday, 6th August, the High Commissioner of India to Australia, Ambassador Manpreet Vohra invited the Indian veterans in Australia to a lunch at the Hyatt Hotel in Canberra. It was a great meet and greet occasion with nearly 70 people in attendance. The contributions of the Indian Armed Forces in protecting not just the borders of the nation but her integrity too were remembered.

There were officers who had served in both the Indian and Australian Armed Forces. The High Commissioner spoke about his personal connections with the

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Armed Forces and lauded the families who stood beside the men when they were called to duty. The families of the officers and their men in the Armed Forces have a huge role to play in this equation. It was a very well spent afternoon, and the veterans lauded the High Commissioner for this initiative.

Today India’s opinions matter and make a difference on the global stage. From a country ruled by kings and emperors to becoming a British colony to evolving into

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a nation that is playing an increasingly important role in world politics, India has come a long way in the past 75 years. The story of her impressive growth is inspirational. May my country of birth, my motherland continue to blossom and prosper. It is extremely heartening to see increasing bilateral relationships between India and Australia. May these two countries continue to collaborate, grow and thrive complement each other’s strengths. A very happy 76th Independence Day to all my fellow Indians and Indian Australians. Jai Hind!

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Community News | Sydney

Liverpool Declares Climate Emergency, with Cr Kaliyanda leading the charge for climate action

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iverpool Council has now declared a climate emergency, with local Labor councillor Charishma Kaliyanda leading the charge on pursuing practical climate action at a local government level.

is leading our community and our region. We are focusing on practical action and ensuring we engage with residents, businesses and other organisations to help them implement measures to reduce our impact on the environment,” explained Councillor Kaliyanda.

The Declaration, brought to Council by a motion from Councillor Kaliyanda, was passed unanimously.

“This motion is not merely a symbolic gesture – it is a starting point in our push for realistic and practical steps to protect local residents and communities from the brunt of the consequences that stem from ongoing climate change.”

In passing the motion, Liverpool joins over 100 Australian local government areas, and almost 3000 jurisdictions across 38 countries, in declaring a climate emergency and calling for immediate action on climate change. Councillor Kaliyanda said that the push to declare the emergency came from seeing the effects of climate inaction on local residents.

“In Liverpool alone, we’ve had at least 4 floods in 3 years; prior to that we had catastrophic bushfires. This is no longer a warning – it is a real and present danger and it requires collective action from all levels of government and our community,” Councillor Kaliyanda said.

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The declaration of a climate emergency follows the development of Liverpool Council’s Climate Change Policy and Action Plan, which went out for exhibition in May. “With both a Plan and Declaration of a Climate Emergency now in place, Liverpool Council

AUGUST I 2022

Anneliese Alexander, a Liverpool resident who organised a petition calling on Liverpool Council to declare a climate emergency, spoke at the council meeting. “Solutions to this enormous problem are going to come from both individual, incremental change, as well as policy change at all levels of government. Declaring a climate emergency is not just virtue signalling, not if you don’t let it be. We cannot afford for the crisis to get worse,” she said.

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Community News | Sydney

Disable is Able Pageant

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ringing together people of diverse cultures, languages and backgrounds and to foster the feelings of acceptance and belonging Road2Bollywood organised the event Disable is Able Pageant/Miss Teen Worldwide and Dinning in the Dark event.

The aim of the event was also to improve mental health and create a vibrant, solid and connected society.

Photo credit : Harmohan Walia

It was a sold out event and was attended by community leaders, parliamentarians.

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Community News | Sydney

Tastes, sounds and spirit of India alive across the City of Parramatta

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rom spicy street food, to beating drums and colourful dance, the tastes, sounds and spirit of South Asia are set to be celebrated across Parramatta as the City marks 75 years of Indian independence.

On Monday 15 August, City of Parramatta Council will host a flag raising ceremony at Jubilee Park in Parramatta’s CBD, with Lord Mayor Cr Donna Davis to be joined by the Consul-General of India, Manish Gupta for the special event.

Cr Davis said the City of Parramatta is home to the largest population of Indian and South Asian people in Australia, with more than 29,000 residents identifying India as their country of birth in the 2021 Census.

“Our South Asian communities are an integral part of our City,” Cr Davis said.

HAPPY INDIAN INDEPENDENCE DAY On behalf of the City of Parramatta, I extend my best wishes to everyone celebrating Indian Independence Day. Congratulations on achieving 75 years of Indian Independence.

The City of Parramatta proudly celebrates the valuable contributions of the Indian diaspora to our City.

City of Parramatta is hosting a Flag Raising Ceremony on Monday 15 August at Jubilee Park, Parramatta from 12:30pm – 1:30pm.

Cr Donna Davis Lord Mayor City of Parramatta

cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au 126 Church Street, Parramatta | PO Box 32, Parramatta NSW 2124 P 02 9806 5050 | E council@cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au

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“This year is a special one for our Indian community with it being 75 years since India’s independence. The event allows our communities to connect with their homeland and embrace the traditions of their Indian culture. We are proud to fly the Indian national flag to mark this momentous occasion.”

Council’s Parramatta’s Heritage and Visitor Centre has also created an Indian Independence Day online experience which features photos and local stories. Free video resources on the history of Indian Independence Day are also available through City of Parramatta Libraries.

From 12 August, Council will switch on an electrifying lighting installation through Harris Park and along the banks of the Parramatta River as part of a six-month program supporting local South Asian businesses and culture. Marion Street will feature two decorated arches while an array of colourful lights will illuminate Parramatta River from the Ferry Terminal to Lennox Bridge until October 30. Extra elements will be added to transform the foreshore for Diwali celebrations, including a run of flags with peacocks and elephant motifs and a series of lighting installations on the Barry Wilde Bridge.

In the lead up to Indian Independence Day, Riverside Theatres will be hosting two ticketed events – Spicy Fusion, a colourful blend of dance and music, and Indian musical Simha the King. The festival also features a free event in Prince Alfred Square with live music, food, dance, rides and family fun on Sunday 7 August.

“I encourage everyone to come along and celebrate the rich heritage, culture and warmth of our dynamic Indian communities,” Cr Davis said.

AUGUST I 2022 3/8/22 9:08 pm

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Community News | Sydney

Ghazal track ‘Dar Jiska S Sydney based Srija

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Reflection... a, musical journey released at Khazana 20

ustralia based Indian talent is making waves, reaching new milestones and above all creating a path of opportunities for the local talent in Australia as well as in overseas.

By: Daljeet Bakshi

A very soothing ghazal Dar Jiska

Satata hai was released in the prestigious Khazana Ghazal festival in Mumbai on 30th July by Shri Pankaj Udhas ji Sudeep Banerji Anup Jalota Hari Haran and Rekha Bhardwaj. The Ghazal is sung by Srijani Ghosh The song has been composed by Sudeep Banerji and is written by Aalok Shrivastav. This year Sudeep Banerji got the best Ghazal Award both as singer and composer for the Ghazal Noor written by Aalok Srivatav Sirjani is a well know singer in Australia and is now making news in India as well .

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Community News | Sydney

Satata He....’ by ani Ghosh.

022 festival in Mumbai.

She has taken Hindustani classical vocal training from Guru Imam Ghulam of Allahabad (Prayag Gharana), lessons in bhajan and thumri from Esha Bondopadhyay (Kolkata) of Luckhnow Gharana, training in light vocals from Debasis Bannerjee in Kolkata and is currently taking vocal training under Shri Gautam Ghosal and Pt Parthasarathi Desikan (Patiyala Gharana) in pure classical.

Srijani is a reputed music guru in Sydney.

She has performed at various venues across India & Australia, with over 100 concerts to her credit.

Reflection is a soft romantic Ghazal which talks about passionate and unconditional love, heart break, letting go and moving on in life. The amazing soundtrack done by the best of musicians in Mumbai at Lata Mangeshkar and Hariharan’s studio It was released in Khazana 2022 final day on 30th July, a musical journey of 8 hours of non stop ghazals in The Regal room, The Trident, Nariman Point Mumbai.

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Mag Corner

Sri Om’s Road Map event night cum Award night An impressive event of Sri Om Care was held at Madison Function Centre Dural on 31 July in the presence of Sri Om Adisakthiyendra Swamigal, Chairperson of Sri Om Care .

By: Harmohan Walia

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on. Mark Coure MP, Minister for Multiculturalism & Seniors, where future Road Map for Seniors was explained and the next step in Sri Om Care was introduced. Also, services of volunteers were acknowledged.

Sri Om Care is part of Sri Om Foundation and was initiated in October 2006 and was formally launched in August 2007 at Blacktown.

The main concept has been derived from the principles given by Sri Om Adi Sakthiyendra Swamigal. These concepts have been adapted Download Our App

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Mag Corner

from the parent organisation, Sri Om Adi Sakthi Ashram which is located in the South of India and has branches in New Zealand, Fiji, Canada and in Australia (Clarence, NSW). The concept was a manifestaion of Swamiji’s simple philoso-

phy – “Humanity leads Divinity, Divinity leads to Unity”. The notion conveys the message that GOD is there in every living being. In serving society, we are serving GOD. In doing so, we are all living as one.

Photo credit : Harmohan Walia

HAPPY

INDEPENDENCE DAY

Mayor Ned Mannoun

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#lovelivo www.liverpool.nsw.gov.au

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Entertainment

Arjit Singh’s

global appeal creates magic Down Under When you talk about Bollywood and Indian Cinema, it is not just the acting on screen, but also the music attached to those films that makes it legendary and memorable.

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Entertainment

By: Zoran Saher

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peaking about legendary voices, India’s current biggest sensation, Arijit Singh, graced his presence in Australia by performing two mega hit shows in Sydney and Melbourne.

The Sydney show took place at ICC’s Aware Super Theatre at Darling Harbour, witnessing a record-breaking 9000 people in audience.

Arijit Singh has been doing live performances ever since he rose to stardom and colossal global popularity, as his every song resonates with a personal memory and an emotion. It is needless to even say that when Arijit Singh sings, he takes you on a soulful journey like no other. The Sydney concert was helmed and promoted by Arun Nanda under his production company – Heart and Soul Productions. Nanda has been responsible for bringing some of the biggest artists to Sydney over the years, but Arijit Singh live in concert, is the biggest by any standards. The MC’s and presenters for the night were Jazeel Mistry, Dimple Shah Doshi and Sheila Dhillon.

As the gates to the breathtaking ICC theatre opened well in advance before the show, the presenters kept the audiences engaged by exchanging fun banter relating to Arijit Singh most celebrated tracks over the years. I spoke with Jazeel Mistry, one of the lead presenters for the show, about his experience of working on a production of this scale. He said “this is probably one of the biggest musical shows I’ve ever been a part of. The magnitude of the

production was never seen before. Bringing Arijit Singh to Australia was one of the most expensive stage productions ever in Sydney.

His crew members and artists from his team are not just normal general musicians. Each of them were unique and world class, that you don’t see in every day Bollywood.”

In every concert, it is the fans that make the event all the more special. Jazeel Mistry shed light on Arijit Singh’s global appeal, as he said “the crowd and the frenzy was unbelievable. Arijit has performed in Australia before, but never at this level. He’s currently the number one voice in India and so many of his tracks have become household favorites across the NRI audiences in the world.” With the pandemic halting every possible event for the last 2 years, Sydney needed something special, to get itself back on track. Mistry also added, “Sydney got its much-needed boost

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AUGUST AUGUSTI 2021 I 2022

through Arijit’s voice. And for that to happen, we needed someone of Arijit Singh’s caliber, to grace the occasion. It was the first ever Bollywood musical show at the ICC Aware Super Theatre. And according to me, this was Arijit’s finest performance, even by his standards. I’d also like to congratulate and give a huge shoutout to the main man, Arun Nanda, for putting together a concert that Sydney will not forget for a long time.”

I had the wonderful opportunity of talking to the man who made this colossal event in Sydney, possible – the founder of Heart and Soul Productions, Arun Nanda. Speaking about his experience of witnessing a history defining number of 9000 people in the audience, Nanda said, “It was a first-time experience for me hosting such a big audience. I was a little nervous but excited as well. I was very concerned about their safety, but I wanted to www.DesiAustralia.com

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Entertainment

make sure that they got great value for their time and money.”

these effects before, and although it was very expensive, I believe it was worth it.”

Fans of Arijit Singh across Australia, deserved the kind of night that they could take back and cherish for a long time to come.

There is no doubt that the last 2 years has dimmed one’s overall morale due to the pandemic. However, a show of this stature, made it worth the wait for all those who witnessed it live. Arun Nanda said, “Audience’s response is the most important in the success of any show. We were blessed that we could bring happiness on each and every face that day. It was a long journey for this epic show, as the work began in 2019. However, it took this long to happen only because of the consequences that Covid brought along. From day one, I was clear what I wanted and developed my team accordingly. This show is an example of what great team work can achieve. There were a few obstacles, but with a great team I was able to resolve those issues well. From

the bottom of my heart & soul I thank our esteemed audience, sponsors and supporters.

I ensure everyone, that I promise to deliver similar productions in the future as well.”

The night began with Arijit Singh singing Tum Hi Ho from Aashiqui 2, which is also the song that made him an overnight success story in 2013. It was a perfect way to kickstart things, as he went on to sing his favorite hits like Janam Janam, Samjhawan, Agar Tum Saath Ho, Kesariya, Hawayein, Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, and ofcourse, Channa Mereya to end the night. It was a night that put Sydney in a trance of its own.

There have been many artists that have come and gone, but Arijit Singh is a performer in its truest sense. Not only because he’s blessed with a golden voice, but because when Arijit Singh sings, it makes you want to cry, smile and just keep feeling something so deep, endlessly.

Photo Credit: Balz Iclick

The format for the Arijit Singh show had a creative spin to it. For the first time, the crowd were treated to some of the most talented local artists, at the entrance of the ICC venue. Arun Nanda elaborated by saying, “this time, I decided to do something different and came up with the idea of having a pre-show concert at the venue. And, it turned out to be a real hit as well. We had some of the finest talents in Australia, such as - Joy, Mayank, Sanket, Ami and Ruhani performing to some of Arijit’s well known hits.” Unlike many other concerts that have taken place in Sydney so far, this was the first of its kind with regards to its lavish and grand stage production value. Arijit Singh’s concerts have always adopted digital screens, high end lighting and confetti. His show in Sydney was no different. Arun Nanda added, “I really wanted this show to be spectacular and I was committed to bring the latest technology in the entertainment industry on stage that day. It took almost two days to set up everything, thanks to the hard work of 60 technicians. Australian has never experienced

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Community News | Sydney

SHARE’S CHRISTMAS Opportunity to re-connect, re-engage, be inspired an

The much anticipated SHARE’s annual event was held on Friday 29th July after almost three years of hiatus due to COVID with much fanfare to delight all at The Club York 95-99 York St, Sydney How SHARE is Reconnecting Seniors this Christmas in July.

SHARE is proud to hold its Annual Christmas in July, this marks half year celebrations,

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the event gives SHARE supporters and in particular participants something different to look forward to, it promotes social connection, culture, encouragement and supports people to get out of their homes which is good for their body and mind.

COVID-19 restrictions impacted many families’ particularly older and vulnerable seniors in the community who continue to experience high levels of isolation, stress and loneliness as a result. This event is part of SHARE’s work in providing holistic care whilst empowering seniors to maintain good health, feel and look great with confidence.

With a sold out event many wore their loudest Christmas jumper, wrapped in bright

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coats to keep winter chill at bay joined for a Christmas cheer, the venue sparkled with plenty of festive decorations reminiscent of the white Christmas, and celebrations centred around a sumptuous feast, a three course traditional Christmas-themed feast with all the trimmings was served!

A visit from Santa certainly brought the room alive and everyone was swinging to favourite Christmas songs with live bush band along with many other Australian songs to sing along, dance , and some played instruments on the stage , Schools Kids from AP Performers in Hurstville entertained the audience and our own instructor Norma gave a quick demonstration of Zumba.

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Community News | Sydney

IN JULY nd enjoy friendship The event was attended by community leaders dignitaries and parliamentarians. Ms Peggy Giakoumelos from SBS News was the MC for the event.

SHARE participants were thrilled to have this event in the City and be with over 200 guests, “Christmas in July “gave them an opportunity to re-connect, re-engage, be inspired and enjoy friendship, laughter, make new friends and simply have fun and who could forget the race to win a raffle prize or two.

People from various multicultural backgrounds joined in this celebration, food and dance remain a universal language – a way to overcome language barriers and boost social connection.

SHARE is an award winning and leading not-for-profit in the health promotion sector. It provides general well-being exercise, specialised and compassionate mental health programs for individuals and groups in our community through qualified instructors.

Classes are conducted in non-threatening community settings and are flexible, targeted, caring and person centred for people over 55

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to help them maintain their health and fitness levels so that they can enjoy all aspects of their life.

SHARE makes a real difference in people’s life, particularly to older and people living in isolation, feeling anxious or are suffering from depression.

SHARE’s slogan for 35 years has been “Move It OR Lose It”, SHARE encourages learn for life and is building healthier and stronger communities.

“We received many positive feedback and we feel our mission is accomplished said Adrian Prakash.

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Lifestyle

Why You Should Consider Ex An Alternative To Medic

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eople say you should treat your body like a temple, and we at PV Academy do believe the same. Our bodies have several organs and functions we need to take care of regularly to lead a healthy life. As women, a lot of us do want to look good, stay in shape and retain the youthfulness that our bodies once projected when we were 20. But unfortunately, some of us do tend to get hormonal imbalances when we are on the journey of growing up.

Hormones are our body’s compound carriers. Created in the endocrine glands, these incredible substitute compounds move around

your transmission system directing tissues and glands. They help in regulating a substantial lot of your body’s vital cycles, including ingestion and dispersion.

Signs And Indications Of Hormonal Irregularities

4A mound of fat between the joints 4Lassitude 4Muscle deficiency 4Prolonged or reduced heart rate 4Sweating 4Frequent urination 4Increased thirst/hunger 4Decreased sex drive 4Constipation 4Thinning hair 4Puffy or rounded face 4Pink or purple stretch marks

4Weight accretion 4Sudden weight decline

But to be precise, these traits are all nonspecific and having them doesn’t fundamentally

So What Are Hormonal Imbalances?

A person with hormonal imbalances has either an extreme or little amount of a particular hormone.

Bhujangasana/ Cobra Pose

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Lifestyle

xercise As icine

Sasangasana/ Rabbit Pose

mean that you have a hormonal imbalance.

But all of these can be tackled with positive shifts in our lifestyle. Even tiny shifts can possess positive results all through your whole body. And one such simple shift is regular exercise.

What Exercise Should We Do To Help Ourselves?

To be honest, modern medicine has come a long way to help us with our hormonal imbalances. An overview released in May 2004 by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine zeroed in on who utilized integral and elective medication (CAM), what was utilized, and why it was utilized in the United States by grown-ups age 18 years and above during 2002.

As indicated by this study, Yoga was the fifth most usually utilized CAM treatment (2.8%) in the United States during 2002. Yoga is surveyed as a brain-body reconciliation that is appropriated to abbreviate the wellbeing consequences of summed up tension. Yoga is trusted to calm the neural system and stabilise the body, mind, and soul.

Asanas You Should Try To Regulate Your Hormones And Keep Fit We recognize customary and contemporary medication can mend actual infections and lighten mental problems. We addition-

Ustrasana/ Camel Pose

ally recognize customary and contemporary medication is less viable than correlative practices. For example, yoga treatment recuperating the enthusiastic, scholarly, and regular layers of our human experience. By practising the discipline of yoga and applying its all-encompassing model of wellbeing, our natural way to unrivalled health can and will

Setubandhasana/ Bridge Pose

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become a show.

So, to take care of your body you need to take time out for physical activities. Go running, find that jump rope you liked so much or go out for a spin on your bicycle.

And we would for sure ask you to practice the aforementioned asanas for balancing your hormones.

Malasana/ Garland Pose

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Mag Corner

Twenty Years: The War in Afghanistan Exhibition launched at The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre, Blacktown

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By: Harmohan Walia

ringing together powerful and diverse Afghan voices, Twenty Years: The War in Afghanistan explores the legacy of war and the future of Afghanistan through the eyes of artists and journalists.

The exhibition will run from 2nd Aug to 3rd Sep 2022 and features internationally renowned artist and Blacktown resident, Khadim Ali, and new multimedia artworks

by Afghan-Australian artist, Elyas Alavi.

Melbourne-based street-artist Tia Kasambalis’ drawings are a series of portraits of people connected to the Afghan War both in Australia and Afghanistan. London-based Afghan artist, Orna Kazimi, presents a striking animation and a free zine that visitors can take home.

The exhibition has been curated by Antony Loewenstein and Alana Hunt with curatorial advice from Nur Shkembi. The program of talks and gatherings has been Download Our App

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curated and produced by Maryam Zahid, Director of Afghan Women on the Move.

Maryam invites visitors to enjoy Afghan tea and sweets during these public events. www.DesiAustralia.com

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Photo credit : Harmohan Walia

Afghan photo-journalist, Najiba Noori, shares a series of images capturing the complex ebbs and flows of life, death and migration in recent years. Journalist Antony Loewenstein shares behind the scenes clips from his documentary and journalistic work as well as photos from his visits to Afghanistan. A specially commissioned short film commenting on the legacy of the war has been made by two, anonymous female Afghan-Australian artists.

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Councillor Tony Bleasdale OAM

Mayor of Blacktown City

Message from the Mayor of Blacktown City

Indian Independence Day It is my great privilege to extend the warmest of greetings on behalf of Blacktown City Council on the occasion of India’s 75th year of independence.

It is a time of celebration of the hopes and aspirations for over 1.3 billion Indians and especially our Indian communities here in the City of Blacktown and across Australia.

We are so proud of the very deep and strong links Blacktown City has with India.

More than 25-thousand Blacktown residents were born in India and more than 38-thousand have Indian heritage.

I wish you all the best for ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ leading to a year of celebrating India’s 75th anniversary of independence.

And we look forward to many more years of active collaboration with the Indian Consul and Consulate staff.

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Australia News

International Honour for former Multicultural Chief

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he former long-standing leader of NSW’s major multicultural agencies, Stepan Kerkyasharian, has been awarded the Medal of Outsanding Contribution, by the President of Cyprus.

The medal was presented on 28 July in Nicosia at the World Conference of the Cyprus Diaspora by the President of the Republic, His Excellency Mr Nicos Anastasiades Awarding the medal to Mr Kerkyasharian AO, Hon.D.Litt, who was born and raised in Cyrpus, the President’s Citation said: “You make us in Cyprus feel extremely proud of you”.

It continued: “You have worked tirelessly, with perseverance and determination and you have achieved an important career path, as an outstanding leader, recognised for your pivotal role in fostering multiculturalism in Australia.

“You have championed debate and policy change to improve the well-being of under-represented communities on issues like religious practices, immigration law, refugee settlement, migrant qualifications and community relationships thus becoming a major influence in shaping community harmony.

“Through your work, your exceptional achievements, the core values and principles that you exemplify as a person, and most notably your long-standing contribution to the Cypriot Community in Australia, you became a pioneer in giving migrant voices a national platform”, he said.

Speaking from Nicosia , Mr Kerkyasharian who was the foundation Head of the Special Braodcasting Service’s Radio Division from 1979 to 1988 and Chair of the NSW Community Relations Commission (formerly Ethnic Affairs Commission) from 1989 to 2014 said, “It is a privilege and at the same time greatly humbling to be honoured by the Download Our App

country, the people and the President of the country which has given me life and which opened its arms and accepted my orphaned parents who had survived the Armenian Genocide.”

“In the 1950’s I went to school across the road from this presidential Palace when I witnessed the struggle for independence, for the right of a people to be masters of their own destiny and to practice their own culture and language. That has guided me throughout my life, to support the basic human right of people to freely practice their language, religion and culture.”

Mr Kerkyasharian went on to say that the honour he had received: “Recognises the contribution of all those I’ve worked with over those years”.

AUGUST I 2022

“I was very fortunate to have been given the opportunity to make a contribution to the development of our great multicultural society which is today not only a reality but is accurately reflected in the new Parliament in Canberra.

Michael Christodoulou, President of the Federation of Cypriot Communities of Ausralia and New Zealand said today: “We are deeply honored that one of ours has been recognised in his birthplace with this rare acknowledgment of his international achievements”.

Present at the awarding Ceremony was the High Commissioner of Australia to Cyprus, Ms Fiona McKergow who congratulated Mr Kerkyasharian on behalf of The Australian Government. www.DesiAustralia.com

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Community News | Adelaide

Leber’s congenital amaurosis Children with low vision or no sight like Amaaya, rely on Royal Society for the Blind SA essential services. Gags Bedi is passionately fighting for fair access to clinical trials and for all Australian children to receive this life changing gene therapy once it is available.

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By: Daljeet Bakshi

maaya Bedi is a resident of Adelaide South Australia. She loves going to school, spending time with her friends. But Amaaya is unique. When she was just 18 months old, she was diagnosed with Leber’s congenital amaurosis, an inherited eye disease which progressively causes blindness due to abnormal photoreceptor cells.

Amaaya has a form of the disease caused by the absence of the CRB1 gene despite no family history of the disease.

Everyday RSB team of experts teach children like Amaaya how to use a range of aids and techniques to perform everyday activities, like learning, going out, using public transport, shopping, and playing with friends.

There are only about 100 other children throughout Australia with the same condition. In the past, there were no viable treatment options, but recent advances in gene therapies are giving children like Amaaya and their families hope for a different future.

Her father Gags is passionately fighting for fair access to clinical trials and for all Australian children to receive this life changing gene therapy once it is available.

“Since Amaaya was diagnosed, I have been fighting to learn all I can about her condition, to know the options for restoring her sight and opening new opportunities for her. We’ve been to the US, I keep in touch with leading global researchers, and I won’t stop fighting for my little girl,” said Gags Bedi.

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“In the past few year’s medical teams in Philadelphia and the Netherlands have made huge progress and gene therapies for inherited eye conditions causing blindness which are now in clinical trials. Similar genetic conditions in the US can already be treated with gene therapies, with incredible success,” he said.

With his daughter’s eyesight deteriorating, Gags is hopeful that Amaaya can receive gene therapy in time to restore her eyesight, but he says Australian governments and medical providers should be doing more to remain at the forefront of the latest technologies and treatments. “Gene therapies are expensive, and they take time to administer, but the impacts are life changing because they fix the genes that cause the blindness. I am calling for our new State Government to listen and work

deserve the opportunity to have their sight restored, and we are working with the Bedi family to ensure Amaaya has access to Australian clinical trials as soon as they are available,” Damian said.

“The thought of my daughter being able to see her little sister, to be able to read, to choose her own future, is what gives me strength to keep fighting. I just want the best future for her,” said Gags.

All we are trying to do is spreading awareness regarding this rare eye condition, get in touch with other suffering families all over Australia and if she can access the Clinical Trials (Treatment)whenever they occur in Philadelphia(USA) or Netherlands(Europe), cause there is nothing available in Australia at the moment. (source RSB SA )

Amaaya receives regular support from Royal Society for the Blind SA (RSB) to help bolster her independence and make best use of the very small amount of sight she still has. RSB offers services and support to more than 8,000 South Australians who are blind or experiencing low vision, and according to RSB Executive Director, more needs to be done to invest in preventative and life changing therapies. “We know that gene therapy is expensive, and in the US it costs nearly $1m for this treatment.

But we also know that children like Amaaya AUGUST I 2022

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Happy 76th INDIA Independence Day Australia and India have always shared a special bond that strengthens our bilateral relationship

Sincere thanks to the Indian Community for your wonderful contributions to South Australia On this significant 75 years milestone, I wish everyone good health, prosperity and a joyful celebration of India's 76th Independence Day!

THE HONOURABLE

JING LEE MLC Download Our App

MEMBER OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL PARLIAMENT OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA (T) 8237 9408 (W) www.jinglee.com.au AUGUST I 2022

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Receipe

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ost of us have been fortunate to be born in a free country. However, regardless of our generation or physical location, we celebrate our Independence with gratitude.

Some may hang a flag, search for good quotes/pictures to post (been there done that), cook (the situation since morning at our individual headquarters) or just reminisce. But whatever we do our emotions of patriotism bring us together today.

Wait! Wait! While we have, you all

here…

Together, lets pray for our Motherland to: have the STRENGTH to overcome hardship maintain its PEACE and, always GROW above all.

Happy Independence Day from one proud Indian to another.

Jai Hind!

To make it more fun we did a High Tea with tri colour theme too..

Sandwiches , muffins,Pistachio, orange and vanilla macaroons, Masala Tea, Saffron Coffee Shot( it’s an Arabic flavor) Our Amazing followers were given the challenge to post their photos: Sharing some of their photos too Thank You Cheryl and Deepti, Seema for accepting this..

We hope these meals brighten up your day too!

We are Rassasyfied... Until next time ...

WatdoyouMeal Team

We wanted to keep it as simple as we could, but our taste buds never let us get away with simple flavors. So here it is : Tricolour kheer- made with khush flavor (green) and saffron flavor ( orange)

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From our homes to yours...our best wishes to the Indian Community celebrating Independence Day!

Have you been thinking about building a brand new home?

Then it’s time to visit HomeWorld. ✔ First step – go to homeworld.com.au ✔ See what homes are on display across 5 locations. ✔ Create your favourites list. ✔ Take a drive to one of the HomeWorld villages. ✔ Step inside and explore the display homes. ✔ Ask questions to the Builder’s sales teams on site.

There really is no easier way to find the perfect new home design for your lifestyle, and to get ideas, inspiration and information.

Designs on display include Single Storey, Double Storey, Granny Flats, Duplex, Sloping Block, Custom design and so much more.

Open 7 day a week, from 10am - 5pm.

HomeWorld.com.au

homeworldaustralia

@homeworldaus

BOX HILL · MARSDEN PARK · LEPPINGTON · NEW THORNTON OPEN TO PREVIEW · WARNERVALE Download Our App

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Community News | Canberra

Painting Canberra’s Landsca Fiona Godfrey, Princi that I would be considered for such roles. But it was him that really gave me the confidence and projection to go forward. Eventually I took on my first Principalship in Adelaide and then I had the opportunity to come over to Canberra and take on the Radford principalship. I have loved every single day of being in this role, it’s just such a dynamic role to be in - always different.

Certainly, as you mentioned before, COVID has brought lots of challenges. Indeed, they have been two very turbulent years, not only for us here at Radford, but even in the larger and wider community, and I think it has caused us all to re-examine what are the really important things in life and to imagine a world which is far more adaptable than it was previously.

Being Principal of Radford is, undoubtedly, a demanding role. How do you keep a balance between the many demands of your role as Principal and personal, social life?

Fiona, you have led the school in the past eight and half years, to numerous achievements and through two extremely challenging COVID years. Please share a bit about your journey with our readers.

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By: Rajni Ghai Malhotra

iona is a dynamic leader in the field of primary and secondary education, having served in the Education sector for over 30 years. She is recipient of 2011 South Australia Award, Community and Government for her strategic leadership and business skills.

Fiona is the Principal of Radford College - a co-educational, non-selective, Anglican independent day school boasting a reputation for excellence in academics and co-curricular activities and a strong connected community of over 2100 students and staff.

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Well, I strongly believe that to make it happen, you’ve got to be a goal-setter, you’ve got to either physically or mentally make lists for yourself (and I certainly do both) and keep a positive mindset.

My journey with Radford began eight and a half years ago, with a previous role of Principal at a girls’ school in Adelaide, and I had, in the years leading up to Principalship, taken on more senior roles in schools. However, I had not intended that I would remain in schools. In fact, at about 30 years of age (after my second child), I came to a juncture in my life where I felt I had come as far as I could in education and thought of examining other career options.

I make time for myself every day and for me that is exercise in the mornings. My exercise time gives me the opportunity to clear my head and plan my day. I use this time to think about how I would tailor a difficult conversation (if I’ve got to have those difficult conversations), or plan my writing if I need to write an article for a Bulletin piece or for any of the magazines etc, (that we produce in the College), think about what I’d be saying to students in assembly or any other speeches that I might need to make.

Interestingly, at about that same time, I was unexpectedly called to the Principal’s office and he talked to me about where I saw myself going, suggesting that I had the makings of being a Principal. I had not before imagined

Those few minutes to myself really do clear my mind and I come back feeling ready to cope with the day. From there, the progression through the day just happens and it’s always many and very different things that

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Community News | Canberra

cape - Women in Leadership cipal, Radford College I end up having to do. And I can say that no two days are ever the same. They’re always throwing up lots of challenges, but I think of challenges as positive things. You’ve got to have that positive mindset in the way that you approach things. So, my exercise coupled with making lots of to-do lists, adopting a positive mindset into the role that you’re doing - collectively these strategies are extremely helpful in getting me through some very busy days and some challenging times.

You’re passionate about science, having been a student of science yourself. What are your thoughts on encouraging students in STEM? And how do you and Radford support your students in that?

Certainly, I’m a strong advocate for students taking STEM subjects. I love the opportunity to really challenge yourself and to work through problems. Maths and science were my favourite subjects at school so I went down the STEM pathway and followed that with a science degree.

To encourage students to continue in those subjects, particularly the girls because there has historically been a tendency for them not to choose math science subjects, is to emphasise that there is no gender bias in subjects.

It’s really what you are, where your passion lies, what you’re good at, and what you know, that you need to have when you finish school.

It is about having meaningful conversations - so we often talk in those terms for students, encourage students who we feel should continue with those subjects, talk about where that can get students in terms of their career pathway. These are things they often don’t necessarily think about when they are faced with subject selection. But we need to take Download Our App

them on that journey to try and get them to see beyond those next couple of years.

You present an inspiring story of leadership and success - you are the first female Principal of Radford College and were recipient of the 2011 South Australia Business Woman of the Year, Community and Government Award. What is your success mantra?

I think success has many aspects, but probably the most important aspect is human relations. The joy, sense of involvement and AUGUST I 2022

sense of being part of a community within an organization is a very important part of being successful. I also believe that people need to be able to relate to you as a person.

As a leader, you should be able to make that connection between you as the leader of the organization and the organization’s values.

It’s absolutely important that everyone is known, understood and supported when they have difficulties (and we know that everyone has difficulties at some stage). So, if I had to identify one thing, it would be those human relations which are so important for success. www.DesiAustralia.com

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Photo Courtesy : Radford College

I value the opportunities that STEM subjects can provide to students. Besides giving them a myriad of pathways, they also encourage students to think about creativity and problem solving, which can be used in later life for other purposes. STEM opens up a range of opportunities for students at tertiary studies.

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Community News | Canberra

Fifth Royal Punjabi Dinner 2022

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hat a showstopper royal evening it was!

The Canberra Punjabi Sports and Cultural Association (CPSCA) organised its 5th annual signature event ‘the Royal Punjabi Dinner’ on 23 July 2022 at Thoroughbred Park Lyneham ACT, after a two year covid-enforced

hiatus. The cultural program involved local Canberran talent followed by renowned Punjabi singer Ms Kaur B, live in concert.

The houseful event was enjoyed by over 550 guests. The dignitaries included High Commissioner of India to Australia HE Mr Manpreet Vohra, Ms Christine Murray representing the ACT Multi-

cultural Minister Ms Tara Cheyne (in COVID isolation), Mrs and Mr Narendra Rana (Counsellor, India), Mrs and Mr Harjit Singh (2nd Secretary, India), distinguished community leaders and representatives of Donate Life ACT. The stage was anchored by Canberra’s own Mr Taj Sidhu (singer/poet/ actor/model) and Dr Sunita S Dhindsa (community leader/public speaker/ poet/write). The cultural program started with Punjab’s cultural folk dance performed by Amanpreet and Amneet, followed by bhangra performed by mother and sons team: Kuldeep, Ishveer and Ranveer. This was followed by a performance by Mankirat and bhangra mix by mum,dad and daughter team: Ravneet, Tejinder and Joban.

Kamal sang a famous folk song.

The stage burst into electric bhangra energy with awesome performance from youngsters (age 10-14 years): Alisha, Arman, Ishveer, Japjit, Jasleen, Neil, Nimrat, Prabhnoor, and Ranveer from the Canberra Bhangra group,

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Community News | Canberra

22, with Kaur B Live in Concert

coached by Mr Jagjit Singh.

Sohal; and security by Core Facilities.

The cultural program was followed by the famous singer Kaur B taking to the stage, keeping the audience on their feet with her electrifying performance for almost two hours.

Sponsors of the event were 3T Consulting and Arvensys Group, Agam Group, Capital Green Solar, Capital Infracomms, Capital Solar Energy, Conder Dental Centre, Confidence Real Estate, Core Facilities, Expert Education, G 24/7 Security Services, Indian Town, IT Alliance, JB Slabs, Punjab Homes, Taz Building Group, Town Residential, an ACT Government.

A delicious 3-course hot Punjabi dinner was cooked and served by Canberra’s young entrepreneurs, Rajeev Khullar, Sandeep Singh and Ashwinder Singh (Florey Pantry, Indian Town and Dawat-e-Punjab). The stage, venue setup and lighting were by the Star Party Hire Mt Druitt NSW; decorations by Govinda Events and Decorations; DJ and sound by DJ Teji Pty Ltd; photography/video by Bally

This year, CPSCA is supporting Donate Life, and at the event, raised awareness on the importance of organ and tissue donation to save lives and encouraged people to register as a donor. CPSCA also raised awareness about the importance of learning Punjabi and speaking in Punjabi at home.

CPSCA has announced restarting of the Khed Mela (sports festival) in October and a new initiative called

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AUGUST I 2022

Punjabi Satth for Punjabi poetry.

CPSCA organises annual tree planting at the Guru Ka Bagh Belconnen ACT at Guru Nanak Dev ji’s birthday, felicitates visiting Punjabi artists, conducts and engages in multicultural community activities, liaises with the Act government, High Commission of India, federal government and advocates on community related issues including culturally appropriate aged care facilities, large community hall, fully resourced hospital and health services.

Photo Credits : Rajni Ghai Malhotra and CPSCA

The cultural program concluded with brilliant colourful giddha by Amanpreet, Amneet, Gagandeep, Hardeep, Manpreet, Navpreet, Parwinder, Ramanjit, Sumandeep, and children Lagan and Shabd, from the group Maan Mattiyan Muteyara, coached by Amanpreet Kaur Sohi.

Congratulations to the CPSCA team: Mr Amardeep Singh, Mr Amarjeet Judge, Mr Iqbal Deol, Mr Jatinder Majithia, Mr Naninder Khatra, Mr Paramdeep Nrain, Mr Rattesh Gumber, Mr Sumandeep Dhillon, Dr Sunita S Dhindsa and Dr Surjit Kang led by Dr Harjinder Dhindsa, for a super successful event.

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Yoga

YouGo with Rajni-Let’s Be Mindful Series

Being Kind to Yourself

By: Rajni Ghai Malhotra

Why is it important to be kind to yourself?

Have you ever been angry with yourself for something that you did or didn’t do? Or lost patience with yourself? Or beat yourself up over something gone wrong? If yes, you are in the same boat as most others. It is easy to be tough on yourself. But there is a better way – to practice selfcompassion by choosing kindness towards yourself.

Self-compassion is the ability to take responsibility without blaming or criticising yourself – a mindful acceptance of yourself which allows you to treat yourself with warmth and patience over harshness and temper. Kindness is inextricably related to a positive, proactive growth mindset - you are more likely to learn positively if you treat yourself with kindness and compassion. Here are some tips on how to be kinder to yourself.

Change the dialogue within Become mindful of your inner dialogue. How do you speak to yourself? How do you feel about yourself? Are you harsh in judging your words and actions, for things you said or didn’t say or Download Our App

something that you did or didn’t do?

How we talk or think about ourselves directly impacts our confidence and behaviour. Dr Kristin Neff, Associate Professor, University of Texas at Austin, describes self-compassion as the capacity to give ourselves the same kindness and care that we’d give to a good friend. So, the next time you sense yourself being critical of your words or actions, pause and ask yourself ‘Would I ever say that to a friend?’ When a friend comes to you with a problem you would strive to comfort them, show them the silver lining, help them accept the situation with kindness. That is the kind of courtesy and compassion you must cultivate towards yourself.

handled? Just like you would cheer for a friend, practice cheering for yourself. It could be a small achievement such as completing a simple task that you have been procrastinating or a more significant achievement at work. It takes as much courage to appreciate your qualities as it does to accept your imperfections, do you have it in you to do so?

Look after yourself Self-care, in its simplest form, refers to our ability to care for ourselves and function effectively while meeting multiple challenges with a sense of energy, vitality and confidence.

Befriend yourself The most meaningful relationship is the one that we have with ourselves. How would you rate your relationship with yourself? Is it authentic and accepting or is it filled with self-doubt and insecurity?

Practice a routine of self-care that includes quality sleep, healthy diet, exercise and mindfulness. It is important to practice self – awareness to recognise triggers and pacifiers that affect your thoughts. Cultivate positive habits and mindset, surround yourself with positive people and indulge in activities that help you feel authentic.

Take an honest look at yourself. Note your strengths and areas of improvement in a mindful, non-judgemental manner. Make a ‘gratitude list’ for what you believe are your key strengths and a list of ‘works in progress’ for areas of growth.

Read your list daily and update as you go. Allow yourself to feel tuned in and more authentic about your personality.

There YouGo! Being kind and accepting of yourself is a powerful act of self-compassion towards leading to a happier, healthier you. In the words of Robyn Conley Downs, ‘Growth and being gentle with yourself are not opposites, they are actually one and the same’.

Celebrate yourself When was the last time you patted yourself on the back for a job well done or situation well AUGUST I 2022

Yours mindfully, Rajni Follow Rajni on Facebook @YogaWithRajni www.DesiAustralia.com

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Community News | Canberra

Know India Programme-Ministry of External Affairs, India

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verseas Indian Affairs (OIA) Division of Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India has launched the first three editions of Know India Program (KIP) for the FY 2022-23 and is inviting applications from the Indian

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diaspora youth. The objective of KIP is to connect diaspora youth to their indigenous roots and acquaint them with India’s latest transformational achievements.

The three-week orientation programme would promote awareness among different facets of life in India and the progress

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made by the country in various fields for example economic, industrial, education, science & technology, communication & information technology, culture etc.

For more information on registration, last date and other details, please visit : https://kip.gov.in/

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Life experiences

H

aving grown up in Mumbai as a typical Maharashtrian middle class girl I was naturally exposed to different cultures of India. However not being in the internet era I could only interact one on one with cousins, aunts, friends, and neighbors.

My mother had two sisters and six brothers. In my impressionable age, I always looked up to my mother, my aunts and my uncles’ wives. Since I was a little girl, I used to keenly observe their mannerisms and used to admire their sarees.

Talking about my mum and her sisters, they were from three different decades.

The elder one was old fashioned and conservative, wore only nine-yard sarees and had her hair tied up in a bun. She used to wear gold jewelry from the nose ring to the toe rings. My mum was modern, well educated, friendly and could interact with anyone. She wore few pieces of jewelry, a six-yard saree with a long-braided hair.

She was an avid reader and outgoing by nature. I can proudly say that I have inherited people’s skills from my mum.

The youngest of the lot was different in many ways. She wore sleeveless blouses and had a bob cut which was not very common in 70’s. I learnt sewing, knitting, drawing, painting, art, and craft from my mum and her elder sister, while the saree love was inherited from the younger one. My uncles’ wives were also fond of beautiful sarees, while one had a silk collection, the other had a one cotton. I grew up admiring and observing these ladies and learnt most skills from them.

I stepped out of this family circle when I joined Uni. Here, though I came across different types of dresses, I was always attracted to sarees even in my teens. My life changed with the sudden demise of my father when I was in my second year of Uni. This affected my mother’s health, though she had a supportive family and was very well looked after by her brother and his wife. As it happens in the life of most young ladies, I was married off when my family found the right match for me. From Mumbai, I moved to Dubai, a city of gold and sarees. Soon I was blessed with a boy and a girl. In 1994 we

My Story -

My Journey Through Life

moved to New Zealand. With my kids had grown older and I had a lucrative job in the National Bank. I was financial independent, and I decided to enter the property market as an investor. This move continues to keep me financially secure even today. From my husband I also learnt about stock market investment and trading in the Indian and the USA markets. I thoroughly enjoyed forex trading.

While in Dubai my friends introduced me to stone jewelry to match my sarees.

Soon collecting sarees and matching them with stone jewelry became my passion. In NZ , a friend introduced me to different weaves and types of sarees from India and my saree collection that had started in Dubai, further grew in NZ. After quitting my full-time work, I went back to exploring the skills I had learnt during my teenage years. Later I learnt learn quilling and 3D origami and did some quilling projects and origami models for fun.

It was around this time that I started working on making my own jewelry. My family and friends saw there was a potential and encouraged me to start a

Facebook page and I had a few exhibitions too. The response was very good.

After my move to Sydney in 2020, I have continued with my passion for making jewelry and have participated in a few exhibitions too. My creatiions were well received. A well-crafted piece of jewelry can add an extra layer of dimension to any outfit, be it ethnic or modern. Here in Sydney, I connected with other likeminded lovers of sarees through the Saree Club. Soon my Saree Sakhis became big fans of my jewelry and started ordering customized pieces to match their sarees.

My jewelry designs are contemporary as well as ethnic. I make jewelry for all occasions and age groups. The pieces can be easily customized to suit your style and needs. If you are interested in getting a unique piece of jewelry made check out my Facebook page, “ M’s handmade jewellery and crafts”.

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Arts & Culture

Adakar Showcased Legenda Chughtai’s Tales in Syd Dozakh and Mughal Bachcha, two dramatic theatre productions of works by Padmashree Award winning HindiUrdu writer and novelist Ismat Chughtai, were staged at NIDA on June 26, 2022.

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By: Rekha Rajvanshi

he plays were scheduled to be performed last year, but Covid-19 situation caused two postponements that collectively lasted more than a year. Three performances were scheduled because of the high level of interest in these plays among theatregoers. Produced by the Adakar Theatre and Cultural Group, these plays brought back nostalgic memories of bygone era.

and Suparna Mallick), two elderly women living in a small house with two charpoys and the most basic amenities, were introduced in the first drama, Dozakh. They seek solace and happiness in one another’s companionship from their miserable existence must accept

the fact that they cannot live together or apart and must deal with the repercussions when one of them must depart.

The women desperately strive to interact with everyone that visits their home because

Naulasi and Umdah Khanam (Saba Zaidi

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Arts & Culture

ary Ismat dney

Best actors from the Indian diaspora in Sydney – Saba, Suparna, and Akshat, along with Aditi, Nisha Thacker, and young Abhishek, gave excellent performances in their respective roles. Sets and props were meticulously created, taking into account even the smallest elements of the Mughal era. Senior citizens in the audience, in particular, were able to identify with the Dozakh women’s feelings of boredom and loneliness.

they are lonely and bored. One day a boy (Abhishek Gupta) wanders into their home looking for his ball, both make an effort to converse with him. Their life takes a dramatic turn when Hussan Ara (Aditi Dey) enters their life and convinces Umdah to come and

After a 20-minute intermission, the second play, Mughal Bachcha, was performed. Ismat Chughtai (Aparna Tijoriwala) turned the pages of her book to tell Ismat’s story as the lights were turned on the lovely sets, the eerie sound of qawwali ‘Khwaja Salim Chishti’ surrounded the imaginative world of Mughal Bachcha, and it transported the audience into a world they had been waiting to inhabit for the previous 14 months.

Amid the declining splendour of Mughal civilisation, Mughal Bachcha tells the narrative of the complex, egotistic, darkskinned Kaale Mian (Akshat Gupta) and the proud, fair, beautiful Gori Bi (young Gori Bi, Zara Khan, and old Gori Bi, Abida Malik). The performance described how Kaale Mian’s ego prevented him from removing the veil from his young bride Gori Bi twice, and a third time even as he lay dying. As a result, he left without seeing Gori Bi’s face. Gori Bi, who spent years married but was unable to coexist with Kaale Mian as his wife, was able to gain sympathy from the audience.

Other actors in the play were Saral Somaiya, Ananya Dixit, Smarajit (Bapi) Dey, who portrayed minor but crucial roles.

The actors’ ability to flip quickly between moods and characters during the performance received a lot of acclaim from the audience.

Danish Iqbal adapted Mughal Bachcha, and Saba Zaidi Abdi skilfully directed both pieces.

The creative team behind this successful production included; Samarjit Dey – production and ticketing, Dhruv Jyoti Gosh – art direction and lighting, Sumathi Krishnan – music, Sandhya Bose – makeup and costumes, Sunil Kumar and Tushar Bose – sound, and Saral Somaiya – stage management, Naseem Khan – graphics and photography.

Saba after the play, commented on social media. ‘Three houseful shows at NIDA this weekend reaffirmed our faith in to live theatre. I am at a loss of words to thank the wonderful, responsive and appreciative audience, who patiently waited for one year and eventually made our shows a success.’ Sydney audience, including Consul General of India Mr Manish Gupta applauded the efforts made by the Adakar Theatre Group.

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Photo credit : Harmohan Walia

live with her. Umdah initially gets excited but soon she gets to know of Hussun Ara’s selfish intentions. She also realizes that the move will separate her from Naulasi and she refuses to go.

Community News | Melbourne

Ek Garam Chai ki Pyali Ho By: Poonam Naik

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ea or simply said Chai is integral to our cultural fabric just as coffee is to Australia now. Life revolves around chai. Back home, tea is getting more exquisite and exotic with new tea driven cafes like MBA Chaiwala. Inspired Down Under and you get Dropout Chaiwala.

From international students to entrepreneurs in the making, the humble unassuming chai is surely getting a makeover to another level.

Yummy snacks like pakora and vadas, eggless cakes, maska buns to go with your

chai are all available at your nearest Drop out Chaiwallah shop. Chai in a takeaway biscuit edible cup is a great sustainable idea. They also use kullad – traditional mud cups or chai in a glass cup just like

desi hawker style tea stalls from your Chaiwala bhaiya.

Their chai’s are made from naturally sourced ingredients, served in 8 flavours – Classic cutting chai, Cardamon Chai, Masala Chai, Ginger Chai, Lemon Grass Chai, Saffron Chai and one is their own Mystery Chai.

They also offer a wide range of quick bites hand-selected to complement whichever delicious chai you’re interested in experiencing.

Drop out Chaiwala sources its tea from India in form of loose crushed tea. With three stores around Melbourne and surrounds, don’t forget to check their offerings at dropoutchaiwala.com.

Much luck to these chaipreneurs!!

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Community News | Adelaide

Khazana - A festival of Ghazals, Mumbai 2 evenings of soothing musical journey of outstanding Ghazals.

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By: Daljeet Bakshi

fter previous few years of virtual festival, KHAZANA a ghazal festival was live again in the Regal Room , The Trident , Nariman point , Mumbai . Khazana family paid humble Tribute to dearest Maa Saraswasti Bharat Ratna Lata Mangeshkar ji.

Lata mangeshkar ji has a huge contribution in popularising ghazals through films and Khazana is way of thanking her and celebrating her music life and legacy it was full of capacity and sold out on both the days receiving overwhelming response from the music lovers. Khazana a festival of Ghazals on 29th and 30th July presented by The Oberoi, Mumbai Download Our App

and Union Bank of India in aid of CPAA INDIA (Cancer Patients Aid Association) and Parents Association Thalassaemic Unit Trust - PATUT, The Oberoi and Union Bank of India and other sponsors extended their unconditional support.

Because of continuing efforts by the driving force of Khazana Padam Sri Pankaj Udhas and supporting team of singers AUGUST I 2022

and musicians, Khazana is on continuing journey as marvellous event. Leading most sought-after Ghazal singer and composer Sudeep Banerji has composed the khazana this song.

Prior to the event Khazana Ghazal Festival press conference held at the Trident (Oberoi) Mumbai, was attended

by Senior Vice President Trident, Shri www.DesiAustralia.com

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Community News | Adelaide

Vyankatesh from Union Bank Of India, Neeraj Roy CEO Hungama Digital , Shri Pankaj Udhas and fellow artists Shri Anup Jalota , Ghansham , S Vaswani, Sudeep Banerji ,Rekha Bhardwaj ,Priyanka Barve , Pratibha Singh Baghel , Pooja Gaitonde , Runa Rizvi , Vishal Dhumal and Ojas Yogesh Adhiya. Rohini from Radio Nasha hosted the event so gracefully.

The Biggest Khazana Festival of Ghazals line up of artists for 2 days was Shri Pankaj Udhas , Shri Anup Jalota ,Shri Hariharan ,Rekha Bhardwaj ,Pooja Gaitonde Priyanka Barve, Priyanka Pratibha Singh Baghel ,Rahul Deshpande, Shivani Vaswani , Ghansham ,S Vaswani ,Runaa Rizvii ,Shivamani ,Talat Aziz and Vishal Bhardwaj Aalok Shrivastav Nayaab Udhas and the lovely musicians Ojas Yogesh Adhiya, Sanjoy Das , Manas Kumar, Ninad Mulaokar, Vishal Dhumal ,Nirmal Pawar, Bernard ,Vaz Ashish Choubey on Sound Bimal Joshi Stage design , Vaibhav Patil Ginger PR. Rakshanda Khan and Madiha Khan were the host of the event.

Those who attended the event were full in flow of enjoying the mesmerizing musical journey of Ghazals and surely will be waiting for more in the next year.

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Fashion

Opera Events brings all the fairies to Sydney Opera Miss/Mrs India Worldwide 2022 was held in Sydney on 10th July at Windsor Function centre Sydney under the guidance & mentorship of Anuj Kulshrestha Director of Hindi Gaurav & Opera Events - & The Director of opera Events & Yoga guru-Swechha Kulshrestha.

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he event was 3 days long with first 2 days of training & grooming sessions like -art of ramp walking, yoga session.

The sessions were also facilitated by NSW POLICE in order to make women more empower along with talent round. The gala day started with the lamp lighting by the chief guests1. Mrs Nimeesha Gupta 2. Rohit Pathak 3. Ritesh Duggal 4. Minu Sharma 5. D eputy Lord Mayor of Parramatta Sameer Pandey along with Anuj Kulshrestha & Sweccha Kulshrestha

The fashion show was also organized along with lots of dance & singing performances.

dignitaries and the members of Indian Australia community.

The contestants & models were trained by Jo Shetty & Brinda Pandya. Teena Bhardwaj. The show was emceed by Kangan sharma.

After the tough competition The crown was given to the Sneha ChandrashekharMrs India Worldwide 2022.

Ramanpreet Sandhu- Miss India Worldwide 2022 Isha Khera- Mrs India Global 2022 Ekampreet Kaur- Miss India worldwide 2022

The curtain raiser started with Ethnic round followed by sports round, western gown & questions answers round.

Jury Members were- Ajit Vastyan, Nimeesha Gupta, Rohit Pathak, Dimple Doshi, Dr Neeraj Duggal, Divya Flora, Nidhi Malhotra, Harvi Chugh, Sanjiv Bhalla. The event was attended by

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Fashion

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Community News | Sydney

SpiceFest- A unique day a festival experienc

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riends of India Australia’s (FOIA) SpiceFest was held on Sunday August 7, 2022, and was attended by dignitaries including Federal Minister for Climate Change Hon. Chris Bowen, NSW Minister for Multiculturalism Hon. Mark Coure and NSW Minister for Corrections Hon. Geoff Lee among others.

SpiceFest commenced with the Australian Air League marching in their sharp blue uniform playing band music. The Aboriginal smoking ceremony was the first stage program. Only fitting for Australia’s First Nation to inaugurate the event as it always was and always will be Aboriginal land. As the Aboriginal dance concluded all the dignitaries ascended the stage. They were welcomed

by FOIA president Mrs Viji Sampathkumar whilst at the backstage FOIA vice president Mrs Rajani Nayak was ensuring smooth transition in the background. The event commenced with acknowledging the Dharug people, the traditional owners, and custodians of Parramatta.

On the stage all the dignitaries lit two giant lamps. Australian and Indian National anthems were sung by several FOIA youth vol-

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unteers, the latter in acknowledgment of the 75th year of Indian Independence. Councillor Charishma Kaliyanda of Liverpool delivered the FOIA welcome address and concluded with Councillor Sandhya Reddy’s vote of thanks in her trademark cheerful manner. All the dignitaries were felicitated with a shawl, sweet box, and a plant. A symbol of growing together.

Once dignitaries dispersed, Shivagarjana’s drums resonated through the park. Their

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characteristic white outfit with saffron sash and their rhythmic movements as they beat the drums truly launched SpiceFest. Crowd started to build. Then children took over in the circus workshop, learning to juggle, hula hoops and other skills.

Colourful costumes of dancers of various nations decorated the stage who were introduced by MC Chilly Philly.

Chilli eating competition saw twelve

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Community News | Sydney

and night ce competitors from seasoned chilli chomping champions to young newbies. The competitors wore gloves because those chillies were so HOT they could BURN.. St John’s ambulance and ice cream van were nearby in case of chilli casualties. Chilli competition reminded us how not to react no matter how sizzling one’s life becomes, or their tongues become.

The lion dance contrasted the softness of the dance with curt movements even the lion’s eyelid movements were choreographed.

Children received the opportunity to catch what came out the lion’s mouth. Interactivity was key throughout the event as it capitalised on the audience’s attention. Likewise, MC Wayne with his sidekicks, his words, Amogh and Medha involved them wherever possible.

Before twilight the 200 plants had found new homes.

In Spicy Fusion the audience’s hands and bodies became percussive instruments thanks to Girls on Tap and Lucky African dance.

The turning Kathak dancer’s Jugalbundhi and capturing Arjuna’s dilemma as he faces his kith and kin in the war demonstrated Ruchi Sanghi’s range from fluid movements to dramatic emotional landscapes.

The Ettinghausen’s Jazz routine was stunning, transporting the audience to the 1920s. After the intermission Movement Nation’s hip hop and IMI’s Kpop con-

trasted the former’s staccato movement with the latter’s flowy ones. Phoenix Latin dancing brought Samba to Riverside rows of seating. They even threw in a lesson in salsa moves. Bollywood Dance School Australia numbers were full of energy. The various acts were threaded like strings of pearls by MCs Nick Fury and Saloni. The frenetic energy of SpiceFest transmitted from the stage to everyone’s beating heart and scintillating spirit.

FOIA volunteers worked diligently for over ten weeks, and they poured their passion for uniting people from all walks of life into SpiceFest. Investment NSW planted the CBD Revitalisation seed, FOIA nurtured it and cultivated the SpiceFest tree, a symbol for the diverse communities to grow together, a platform for a community event to tackle climate change in a positive manner. In FOIA they Engage, Educate and Entertain!

Photo Credit Harmohan Walia

The outdoor stage performers became exquisitely spicy with belly dancing getting standing ovation. The night culminated with Brazilian samba with a lot of wiggling and jiggling in vibrant bird-like costumes. Literally jaw-dropping. Drawing crowds of people from eat street. There were a sea of faces outnumbering the seats.

Both the morning show Simha: The Lion King musical and the evening dance showcase Spicy Fusion at the Riverside were nearly sold out. Janaki Easwar the youngest contestant from last year’s Voice, sang in Korean, sang a Billy Eilish song and her very own song. Her talent knew no bounds.

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Desi News

The streets of Sydney v with humanitarian app

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housands of refugees and supporters are expected to converge at Sydney Town Hall. Asylum seekers & supporters marched from Sydney Town hall to Hyde Park. The rally called on the new Labor government to convert Temporary Protection Visas and SHEVs to permanent ones immediately, after refugees have spent up to ten years without family, and having their children miss out on university, 2pm, Sunday 24 July 2022. Boats being sent back and offshore detentions need to end for good.

The opening speech was delivered by Hon Senator David Shoebridge (Greens NSW), with more speeches after from Ian Rintoul

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Refugee Action Coalition, Ramisyar (Ramsi) Sabanayasam Medevac refugee from PNG, Ali Nayyef Australian Refugees in Limbo, Md Abdullah Yousuf, Bangladeshi Refugees of Australia Inc chief advisor, Renuga Inpakumar Tamil Refugee Council, Cian Galea Vice President, Australian Young Labor.

The rally is part of national protests to mark the ninth anniversary of 19 July 2013, when Kevin Rudd declared Pacific Solution II and that asylum seekers who arrived by boat would be sent to Manus Island and Nauru and never allowed to settle permanently in Australia.

19 July set the stage for the Coalition’s

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Operation Sovereign Borders and was the beginning of nine long years of abuse and demonisation of refugees and people seeking asylum.

The end of the Morrison government has left over 19,000 refugees on Temporary Protection Visas and SHEVs; people who worked during the pandemic are separated from their families, denied the right to travel, and their children denied tertiary education. Labor has promised they will all be granted permanent visas – but they are still waiting to hear when and how that is going to happen.

Thousands of others are on bridging visas

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Desi News

vibrated ppeal! that have to be renewed every six months.

Afghanistan is firmly in the grip of the Taliban and crisis has paralysed Sri Lanka. Thousands of people from Sri Lanka and Afghanistan who can never return to their countries are victims of the fast-track processing system that has rejected their protection claims.

Thanus, a Tamil refugee brought to Australia from PNG under the Medevac laws, said “…July 19 policy has destroyed our lives & continues to make us suffer… this Government could change one or two words in this visa, just to let us study, to travel, but there has been no change.

“We can look after ourselves; we just need permanent resettlement…A permanent visa that is it, that is all.”

“When he was elected Anthony Albanese declared that ‘no-one would be left behind’.

But refugees and asylum seekers are being left behind,” said refugee leader Ian Rintoul, spokesperson for the Refugee Action Coalition, “Some of the punitive conditions imposed by the Morrison government could be changed with a flick of the Minister’s wrist.

“The people left behind in Nauru and PNG could be brought to Australia immediately.

More than 500 of the people who were exiled offshore will not have a permanent future unless Labor grants them a permanent future.”

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Md Abdullah Yousuf, Bangladeshi refugee chief advisor said, “Our refugee brothers & sisters did not come here for holiday. The government of Bangladesh is targeting students, businessmen and opposing politicians, as well as enforcing their disappearances, extra judicial killing them. That’s why they are unable to stay there. The current government of Bangladesh oppresses innocent people, so they have no choice but to run way from the country. When they came to Australia in order to save their lives, the Australian government continues to play with them. It is time to see what the current government done. Bangladeshi Refugees are suffering from their own High commission and consulate. They are government servants but treating refuges like animals. Refugees need to be treated as equals and fairly like others. He urged and requested the Australian government: Please give them (Refugees and Asylum seekers) a chance, acAUGUST I 2022

cept them as a Permanent visa holder and give them the opportunity to contribute to the community, shoulder to shoulder in society. “All the refugees are very tired. After ten years, they have waited enough.”

Bangladeshi Refugees of Australia Incorporated (BRA) arranged excellent large Banners and T-shirts, as well as some colourful play cards which attracted a lot of the audience.

Suprovat Sydney, the only Bangladeshi Newspaper in Australia (www.suprovatsydney. com.au), were the Media Partner of the events.

Around 200 Bangladeshis joined and took a vital role on the rally.

Entire events organised by a senior Refugee leader Ian Rintoul (Refugee Action Coalition).

This report was provided by: Md Abdullah Yousuf (Editor in Chief Suprovat Sydney) www.DesiAustralia.com

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Our best wishes to Indian Community celebrating Independence Day! Download Our App

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