Desi Express Magazine December 2015

DECEMBER 2015 WWW.DESIEXPRESSUSA.COM

®

One On One: Amitabh Bachchan on Controversy ... 14

Beauty Secrets: Asin Shares Her Beauty Tips ... 16

Fashion Trends: Shilpa’s Fashion Fundas … 18

Spotlight: Padma Lakshmi “India Is Extraordinary” … 32

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PUBLISHER Shamroze Enterprises Inc.

CEO / EDITOR‐IN‐CHIEF S. Lalani, (404-246-3256) sblalani@yahoo.com

DESIGN / LAYOUT Rozina Gadhiya

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Afzal Mithwani Akbar Kassam Jaideep Sarin Sharanya C R Sugandha Rawal Indo-Asian News Service

CONTRIBUTING IMAGES/PHOTOGRAPHS Shutterstock BAPS Vakiti Creations Indo-Asian News Service

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DESI EXPRESS MAGAZINE For Advertising in Desi Express Call : (404) 246‐3256 (404) 644‐5893 Fax: (866) 635‐5804 Email : desiexpress@ymail.com Website: www.desiexpressusa.com P.O. Box 930531, Norcross, GA 30093 06

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contents THE TRAVELLER: Halal Friendly Vacation … 22

LOVE PRESCRIPTION: Conflict in Relations … 24

HEALTH & FITNESS: Eating Right … 26

THE FOODIE: Dark Chocolate Benefits … 28

FESTIVITY: Christmas Treats Recipes … 34

SAFETY & SECURTY: Holiday Shopping … 36

ADVERTISE WITH US ASK FOR MATCH / BEAT PRICE AROUND TOWN: Diwali at State Capitol … 42

INVESTMENT NEWS: Long Term Care … 46

404-246-3256 DISCLAIMER

MONEYWISE: Year End Tax Planning … 48

CHAI LOUNGE: Diwali with Lawmakers … 52

MOVIE BUZZ: Upcoming Bollywood Movies … 64

WHAT’S YOUR RASHI: YOUR FORCASTS … 68

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ONE ON ONE

New Delhi (IANS) At a time when writers, filmmakers and historians have revolted against a rising culture of intolerance towards freedom of speech, Indian cinematic icon Amitabh Bachchan, a widely followed celebrity on social media, says he's always cautious about expressing himself to avoid "unwanted controversy".

Is he reluctant about sharing his views freely?

"That's a discretion I will exercise because there is a certain vulnerability with celebrities, We (celebrities) are vulnerable to almost everything. There are times when something we may have spoken could have created a controversy. So, there is a certain amount of cautiousness that I exercise, but there are actors and filmmakers who share their thoughts on socio-political matters without a second thought. God bless them," exclaimed the thespian, adding that he finds such people "very brave, honest, frank and strong".

"I exercise a lot of restraint in expressing myself on various issues... I don't want to create unnecessary controversy," said Amitabh. He also said that if he is ever forced into commenting on something, "I will perhaps not be able to give an adequate reply, or I will excuse myself from it because either I don't have the right answers or I don't wish to make comments on it."

His adeptness with technology has improved over the years and, unlike many his age, he has embraced it beautifully, even though he admitted that he's not totally comfortable with it. "My kids and grandchildren help me with these modern inventions. Sometimes when I don't know how to work on a mobile or a laptop or an iPad, they are very conversant to that, so I seek their help."

He feels the onus to introduce "older generations, grandparents and at many times parents who are not conversant with technology -" lies on the youngsters.

Recounting one incident when he introduced his celebrated father to a mobile phone, he shared: “I remember the first time when I took a mobile phone to my father, he had actually backed away from it... like there was some kind of danger involved here. "But gradually once they get used to it, they understand."

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BEAUTY SECRETS

Asin is one of the actresses in bollywood today with few successes. Many women in India are jealous of her beauty and constantly search the internet for Asin’s beauty but getting what she has naturally is quite an ordeal. Below are few tips given by Asim herself.

Drink Plenty of Water: Plenty of water should be drunk everyday. The average person should drink at least 3-4 liters of water daily.

Water exfoliates the skin removing its impurities. Water also cleans the stomach allowing the prevention of a heated up body which in turn prevents pimples and blackheads.

Daily Workout: Asin’s day begins at 6 in the morning. She believes in the quote early to bed early to rise. This keeps her fit and on her toes.

As soon as she gets up some breathing exercises and a short but complete.

Breakfast: breakfast is one of the most important meals in the day and she believes this to be true. As soon as she gets up she eats a breakfast consisting of oats, fruits and juice.

Milk: Asin expresses her love for milk and her dislike for tea and coffee. Instead of tea and coffee she drinks milk everyday and as much as she likes. Milk keeps the bones strong and provides your body with much needed calcium.

Coconut Water: Asin drinks coconut water almost every day. A glass of coconut water is an essential part of her day. Coconut water also keeps the body healthy and cool.

No Sweets: Asin dislikes eating sweets, even though sweets can be tempting she dislikes them because even one sweet can completely disrupt ones diet. Therefore asin opts to eat more fruits than sweets. It satisfies her taste buds and in turn keeps her healthy and fit.

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FASHION TRENDS

I love wearing dresses as nothing can flatter a woman’s body more than a dress that fits well.

Stock a couple of formal and casual dresses and make sure they accentuate your body well. A black jacket is a must in a closet. They go really well with formal wear and during travel too. A well-fitted pair of denims is a must. I would say dark blue and black denims are safe for all events. What’s a woman’s closet without several pairs of shoes? Pick a couple of formal as well as casual shoes that go well with most of your outfits.

Even flats and flip-flops work really well when you are sporting casuals. I have a fetish for bags and have a huge collection of them. I prefer getting them from well-known brands as they are available in varied colors and designs.

When it comes to accessories, it is important to stock a collection of earrings, neckpieces, rings and anklets.

Choose according to your taste and match it well with your outfit. Make-up plays a crucial role in assessing your overall look. However, too much make-up spoils your overall look and it’s important to keep it subtle. A nice lip gloss, mascara, eye-liner and kohl are must carries in your bag.

If you like to experiment with different colors for contact lens, buy a couple of pairs in colors of your choice. However, I would recommend hazel colored lens as they go well with Indian faces. A lot of fashion faux pas are done by almost everybody.

Nevertheless, it’s those fashion faux pas that helps you to grow in fashion. Personally, it has helped me to learn from mistakes and I am more careful now when it comes to dressing up.

Lastly, keep it simple yet stylish as that’s the key to looking fashionable.

Don’t mix too many colors or wear too many accessories. Simplicity always puts you on the limelight.

- As told to Sharanya C R 18

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THE TRAVELLER

Ajman (UAE) (IANS) This is one 'dry' place where guests are crowding to enjoy a unique concept in hospitality.

Tucked away in the UAE's emirate of Ajman, the Ajman Palace Hotel takes pride in its halal-friendly tag. Located on the beach-front that gives an endless view of the Persian Gulf. "We wanted to establish the property as a unique one.

It is alcohol-free and focused on family guests. We have worked very hard on making this concept (halal friendly) popular and our guests have given us a very encouraging response," hotel general manager Ferghall Purcell, who hosted the G8 leaders when he headed the Lough Erne Resort in Northern Ireland in June 2013.

The absence of liquor in a 5-star property may be seen as a hindrance by many, but this is "not an issue at all" for the Ajman Palace management. The high point of the hotel is that it has become a much sought-after venue for all-women's parties during weddings due to its 'halal friendly' concept. "We have the largest hotel ballroom in the northern Emirates. We are a hit for weddings and big conferences. We recently hosted a big fat Punjabi wedding with guests travelling here from across the globe. Everyone went back happy with memories to cherish," Purcell said.

"Our guests can find 34 different kinds of sushi in our Asian restaurant Dragon's Place," its manager said.

"Balancing world-class facilities with the legendary Arabian hospitality, it offers 254 rooms, suites and serviced residences, a remarkable range of restaurants and lounges, fabulous meeting and event venues," Purcell noted. The hotel itself is a multi-nationality place with the staff hailing from 27 countries.

— By Jaideep Sarin

It has its own 150-metre-wide private beach that can be enjoyed at any time, particularly between October and March. With 254 rooms in the semi-circle shaped hotel, getting a sea-view room is an option. The hotel offers an array of food - ranging from local Arabic flavours to Indian sub-continent to continental to Japanese, among others.

For those wanting to indulge in some evening fun, the open -air 'Seesha' bar is an attraction.

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LOVE PRESCRIPTION

New Delhi (IANS) At a time when writers, filmmakers and historians have revolted against a rising culture of intolerance towards freedom of speech, Indian cinematic icon Amitabh Bachchan, a widely followed celebrity on social media, says he's always cautious about expressing himself to avoid "unwanted controversy". Is he reluctant about sharing his views freely? "That's a discretion I will exercise because there is a certain vulnerability with celebrities, We (celebrities) are vulnerable to almost everything. There are times when something we may have spoken could have created a controversy. So, there is a certain amount of cautiousness that I exercise, but there are actors and filmmakers who share their thoughts on socio-political matters without a second thought. God bless them," exclaimed the thespian, adding that he finds such people "very brave, honest, frank and strong".

"I exercise a lot of restraint in expressing myself on various issues... I don't want to create unnecessary controversy," said Amitabh. He also said that if he is ever forced into commenting on something, "I will perhaps not be able to give an adequate reply, or I will excuse myself from it because either I don't have the right answers or I don't wish to make comments on it." His adeptness with technology has improved over the years and, unlike many his age, he has embraced it beautifully, even though he admitted that he's not totally comfortable with it. "My kids and grandchildren help me with these modern inventions. Sometimes when I don't know how to work on a mobile or a laptop or an iPad, they are very conversant to that, so I seek their help."

He feels the onus to introduce "older generations, grandparents and at many times parents who are not conversant with technology -" lies on the youngsters. Recounting one incident when he introduced his celebrated father to a mobile phone, he shared: “I remember the first time when I took a mobile phone to my father, he had actually backed away from it... like there was some kind of danger involved here. "But gradually once they get used to it, they understand." The findings appeared in the Journal of Family Psychology.

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HEALTH & FITNESS

ROTI VS RICE 1 Wheat roti (50 gm) 120 cal - 1 cup of cooked white rice (150 gm) 170 cal

Eating healthy can be a challenge especially when you want to lose weight but are not sure about what is a healthier option that will contribute to your weight loss. We got Rakhee Todankar, a nutritionist at Gold's Gym, to help you make the right choice between popular food items.

DHOKLA VS IDLI Dhokla (2 pieces) 80 calories - Idli ( 2 ) 150 calories Dhokla and idli both are equally healthy. While the former is made with gram flour (besan) and subsequently steamed, the latter goes through a fermentation process, which increases the bioavailability of proteins and enhances the vitamin B content of the food. As it is steamed, fat content is low and it is easily digestible. Dhokla has a low glycemic index (it releases glucose at a more sustained rate) which makes it good for diabetics.

Due to lower glycemic index, and calorie count, besan is often used as a low calorie food for those trying to lose weight.

Since besan does not contain gluten, it is a great substitute to wheat for those people who are allergic to gluten. Use of dal and rice in idli is a good combination as the amino acids in them complement each other. Both can be made healthier

by adding different veggies and pulses in it.

PITA BREAD VS REGULAR BREAD Pita bread 100 gm- 266 calories-Regular bread 100 gm-266cal The ingredients and nutritional value of pita bread and regular bread are essentially identical. To make it a healthier option all purpose flour can be replaced with whole wheat or multigrain.

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Wheat chapati is the healthiest option because wheat rotis get slowly digested it results in a feeling of satiety for a longer time and hence it's good for weight watchers. Wheat rotis take longer time to digest which helps to maintain blood sugar levels.

Rotis or chapatis made from whole wheat are low in fat and rich in fiber, hence reduce the risk of heart disease, obesity, diabetes and cancer.

FRIED EGG VS FRIED FISH One fried egg 160 calories - Two pieces for fried fish 190 calories Egg as well as fish are healthy as both are high in protein. They contain good fats and vitamins. To make it healthier instead of frying one can make boiled egg or grilled/steamed fish.

UPMA VS POHA Upma 1 cup-270 Kcal - Poha 1 cup-270 Both are good as long as they are made in 1-2 tsp oil. Many people hate to eat to vegetables, but if you add vegetables like peas, carrots, capsicum, sweet corn and onions etc, or sprouts in the upma/poha, this will not only taste better but also bring color to the white, pale looking upma and of course increase its nutrients value.

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THE FOODIE

Superfoods don't just come from your supermarket's produce aisle. In fact those chocolate candy bars next to the gummy bears now qualify. Study after study proves that dark chocolate sweet, rich, and delicious is good for more than curing a broken heart.

The secret behind its powerful punch is cacao, also the source of the sweet's distinct taste. Packed with healthy chemicals like flavonoids and the obromine, this little bean is a disease-killing bullet. The only problem? Cacao on its own is bitter, chalky, nasty stuff.

But don't use chocolate as a stand-in for fat-free fruits and veggies. It just doesn't work that way.

An ounce of dark chocolate can contain a whopping 11 g of fat, so you have to compromise elsewhere in your diet to make room for the calories. But if you eat your 1-oz piece of chocolate slowly and mindfully, it should satisfy your most serious chocolate cravings, which can help you stick to a healthy eating plan.

There is considerable evidence that cocoa can provide powerful health benefits, being especially protective against cardiovascular disease. Dark chocolates often contain some sugar, but the amounts are usually small and the darker the chocolate, the less sugar it will contain.

Most commercial chocolates are highly processed. Although it is believed that dark chocolate contained the highest levels flavanols, recent research indicates that, depending on how the dark chocolate was processed, this may not be true. The good news is that most major chocolate manufacturers are looking for ways to keep the flavanols in their processed chocolates. Some of the Benefits of Chocolate are ∗ Very Nutritious ∗ Powerful Source of Antioxidants ∗ May Improve Blood Flow and Lower Blood Pressure ∗ Raises HDL and Protects LDL Against Oxidation ∗ Consuming dark chocolate can improve several important risk factors for heart disease ∗ May Protect Your Skin Against The Sun ∗ May Improve Brain Function 28

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INGREDIENTS:

− 1 cup all‐purpose flour − 1/4 cup Baking Cocoa − 1 2/3 cups dark Chocolate Morsels − 1 teaspoon baking soda − 1/2 teaspoon salt − 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened − 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar − 1/4 cup granulated sugar − 1 large egg − 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

PREPARATION 1. PREHEAT oven to 325° F. Line baking sheets or lightly grease.

2. MELT 2/3 cup morsels in microwave‐safe bowl for 30 seconds 3. STIR Just until morsels are melted. Set aside.

4. SIFT flour, cocoa, baking soda and salt into medium bowl.

Beat butter, brown sugar and granulated sugar in large mixer bowl until creamy. Add melted chocolate. Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well blended, about 1 minute. Add flour mixture, mixing just until blended. Stir in remaining 1 cup morsels. Drop dough by level 1/4‐cup measure 3 inches apart onto prepared baking sheets.

5. BAKE for 16 to 18 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out with moist crumbs and the tops have a cracked appearance. Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes.

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SPOTLIGHT New Delhi (IANS) She's a proud Indian. Supermodel, TV host, producer, cookbook author and actor Padma Lakshmi, who embarked on a glamour-filled journey from the narrow lanes of Chennai to the broad avenues of Hollywood, says that despite its "complicated" image in the West, India continues to enamor the world with its mysterious charm, delectable cuisine and awe-inspiring crafts.

"I don't think India has a bad or a good image...

I think it has a very complicated image in the West. There are extraordinary things, both good and bad, about our country," Lakshmi told IANS over phone from Los Angeles. Lakshmi, who adds the glamour quotient to the kitchen world with her TV show "Top Chef", says it's the taste and aroma of Indian cuisine, handicrafts and bewitching folklore that pro-

"I think most Americans are dismayed about how women are treated, but that is not a phenomenon peculiar to India only. That's a problem that exists all over the world. "I think India is a source of much fascination and mystery to people.

Everybody wants to go to India. They love Indian food, they love the handicrafts which come from there, and the old traditions," she said.

Many Indian flavours have got an international 'tadka', but Lakshmi says there is still a lot to be discovered from the kitchens of India.

"I love north Indian food... I was married to somebody who was from Kashmir (referring to British Indian novelist Salman Rushdie); so for me, Indian food is very regional and all of it is quite interesting and delicious.

and the US. Her book of achievements is filling up fast with an Emmy nomination for "Top Chef"; an award-winning cookbook titled "Easy Exotic" and an eponymous company; a home dĂŠcor line; and a memoir "Love, Loss, and What We Ate" to her credit.

Amid the glitterati, Lakshmi also does her bit for society by baking awareness initiatives promoting women's health.

She said she is content being immersed in her upcoming books and "Top Chef".

The next season of "Top Chef" will soon be coming to the Indian small screen on AXN channel. "I have a new memoir coming out in the spring of next year, a book coming out in fall, and I'm very proud of 'Top Chef'."

— By Sugandha Rawal

I love Gujarati food because that is the kind of Indian cuisine that most westerners don't know about," said the 45-year-old, who has her roots in southern India.

Even her daughter Krishna Thea Lakshmi-Dell, born out of a post-Rushdie relationship, is also well-acquainted with Indian culture.

"We feel at home in India. I don't have any hang-ups about it and neither does my daughter. She has been to India four times in the five years of her life. India doesn't hold any mystery for her. "It is a place where most of her mother's relatives are; so she is very fond of India.

She is very proud of the fact that she is Indian," said Lakshmi, who began her career as a model working in Europe.

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FESTIVITY RECIPES

GINGERBREAD MEN INGREDIENTS: 100 gms brown sugar, 100 gms golden syrup, 225 gms plain flour, ¼ tsp salt, 2 tsp bicarbonate of soda, 1 heaped tsp ground ginger, ½ tsp cinnamon, 50 gms unsalted butter METHOD: Pre-heat oven to gas mark five and grease two baking sheets. Sift together all of the dry ingredients. Heat butter, sugar and syrup until dissolved then leave to cool after mix them into dry ingredients and make a dough. Chill the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes.

Roll out the dough about ¼-inch thick and cut into gingerbread men. Place on trays allowing space to spread. Cook for 10-15 minutes.

CAKE POP INGREDIENTS: 250 gms chocolate (dark or white or nutella brownie cake crumbs), 100 gms chocolate (white or dark or milk) for ganache, 1 cup cream

ALMOND AND CHOCOLATE PIE INGREDIENTS: ½ cup bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, hopped 3 tbsp unsalted butter, 1 ¼ cups dark corn syrup ¾ cup sugar, 4 large eggs, 2 tsp vanilla extract, ¾ tsp almond extract, Pinch of salt, 3 cups almonds METHOD: Position rack in centre of oven and preheat to 180ºC. Stir bittersweet chocolate and unsalted butter in a large metal bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water until melted and smooth.

Remove bowl from water. Mix in dark corn syrup and ¾ cup sugar. Whisk in eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract and salt. Stir in toasted almonds.

Pour filling into prepared crust. Bake pie until filling is set around edges but moves slightly in centre when pie is gently shaken and crust is golden brown, tenting pie with foil if crust browns too quickly, about one hour. Transfer pie to rack and cool slightly.

Serve warm or at room temperature.

METHOD: Melt some chocolate with cream to make a chocolate ganache. Add this to the remaining chocolate and mix together. Then make round balls, and insert a satay stick into the ball and keep it aside to set. Once it is set, roll it into dark, milk or white chocolate (as per preference) to form a coat around it.

Cake pops can be garnished with piping of stars, silver balls etc.

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SAFETY & SECURITY

Also, manycredit cards offer a sort of purchase insurance, so if the item is broken or stolen, the credit card company will insure its replacement cost.

Each time we venture out the door with our wallet or purse full of credit and debit cards, check books and personal identification, we risk falling victim to theft. During the holidays, as we shift into shopping crunch mode, we increase our exposure to such unfortunate circumstances. Often, it’s when we feel stressed, pressed for time and distracted by the crowds that we lose focus and let down our guard.

Thieves, scam artists and fraudsters know this, and they’re ready to take advantage of unassuming shoppers. Don’t gift them with any opportunities!

Keep these tips in mind to protect yourself and your purchases during the holiday shopping season: Make a list of credit and debit card account numbers along with the phone number to call if they are lost or stolen. If this does happen, you’ll be equipped to act immediately and limit any liabilities.

Leave extra cards and ID at home.

Remove any debit , credit or store account cards from your purse or wallet that you won’t need while shopping. Never carry your social security card or other forms of personal identification that could compromise your identity if your purse should be lost or stolen on your shopping trip.

Don’t buy with your debit card. In most cases, they offer consumers less protection against fraud in the event they are lost or stolen. As the bank is investigating the theft, the funds in question may remain unavailable for some time, potentially causing bounced checks, late fees and big headaches.

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Keep your card to yourself. Don’t pull out your credit card to pay for a purchase until you get to the cash register. As you stand there holding your card in line, someone could copy down your credit card number or snap a photo of your card with a cell phone.

Don’t give out too much information. Be aware of your state’s merchant laws. Many states have laws in place that limit what information merchants can and cannot ask for when you pay for purchases by personal check and/or credit card. You’re always better off giving the least amount of personal.

Get your card back after you make a purchase. Double check to insure the store clerk has returned your credit card, and you’ve put it back in your wallet before you leave the counter.

Take personal precautions to guard your credit cards.

When shopping, especially in crowded stores or malls, men should carry wallets in their front pockets, and women should wear purse straps over the head and across the chest to thwart pickpockets and thieves. Use common sense, exercise caution, practice credit card safety, and have a happy and productive holiday shopping season.

Gifting Alternatives Save for the Future: Invest in a young child’s future and gift a U.S. savings bond. Some can be purchased for as little as $25; they may offer federal and state income tax benefits, and they earn interest or increase in value, depending on which bond you choose.

Contribute toward College: Help finance a loved one’s education by starting or adding to a 529 plan at the holidays.

Families can use 529 plans to put away money for college without paying federal tax on their distributions. But, anyone including grandparents, aunts, uncles or even family friends can contribute to a 529 plan.

Make a Charitable Donation: Struggling to select a gift for that someone who has everything? Make a donation in the person’s name to a worthy cause they support. Give a gift that makes a difference!

— By Akbar Kassam FOR ADVERTISING CALL 404-246-3256

AROUND TOWN

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AROUND TOWN

Constructed in 1889, the Georgia State Capitol is a National Historic Landmark and home to Georgia’s government.

For the first time in its 126 year history, Diwali was celebrated under the grand central rotunda with a beautiful annakut. On November 13, 2015, state representatives from Georgia, the Indian Consulate in Atlanta and dozens of prominent Indian-Americans gathered for this historic Diwali celebration.

The event was organized and hosted by the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Lilburn, Georgia in conjunction with Georgia State Representative B.J. Pak (Lilburn 108).

Leaders shared their thoughts on the diverse contributions of Indian Americans to the economic and cultural framework of Georgia. They highlighted the importance of nurturing and advancing the longstanding relationship between India and the State of Georgia.

Guests included State Representatives Hugh Floyd and Marin Pedro, Georgia State Public Commissioner Tim Echols, and Consul General Nagesh Singh from the Indian Consulate in Atlanta. Commissioner Echols offered these thoughts: “As we celebrate this Festival of light and as we think of driving darkness from ourselves, from our neighborhood, from our State…

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I think of the importance of training our children in understanding wisdom, justice, moderation. There is so much we can do in Atlanta.”

Consul General Singh wished the crowd a very Happy Diwali and a Happy New Year. On behalf of the Indian government, he expressed his deep gratitude to BAPS and the Governor of Georgia, Mr. Nathan Deal.

The event concluded with a traditional exchange of sweets to celebrate the New Year. ### About BAPS - The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), a worldwide socio-spiritual organization is dedicated to community service, peace and harmony. Motivated by Hindu principles, BAPS strives to care for the world by caring for societies, families and individuals. Through social and spiritual activities, BAPS endeavors to produce better citizens of tomorrow who have a high esteem for their roots. Its 3,300 international centers support these character-building activities. Under the guidance and leadership of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, BAPS aspires to build a community that is morally, ethically and spiritually pure, and free of addictions.

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AROUND TOWN

They came. They came in with small Batukammas. They came in with big, some very big Batukammas. And they came with really big Batukammas that are not just large that needed 3 people to carry, but were also colorful, creative, and artistic The Batukammas were so many - well past 150 and so varied in size, decor, formation and presentation that the judges had a hard time to decide the best.

The 10th Batukamma festival organized by GATeS (Greater Atlanta Telangana Society, formerly known as Telangana Community, is a non-profit Charity Organization of, by and for Atlanta Telangana Community) in River Side Park, Roswell will be remembered as a landmark event for a long time to come. It was not just the gathering - well beyond 2,000 but also the participation and involvement of children and women from Telangana. The women toiled long and hard for days and late into the night before they show cased their talent and excellent performance. Children practiced for many days to entertain the large crowd with folk songs.

The Consul of India, Dharam Vir Singh released a beautiful Souvenir to commemorate the 10th Annual Batukamma Celebrations in Metro Atlanta by GATeS that has grown leaps and bounds – from a small community of 10 Telangana families (under the leadership of Late GS Reddy in 2006) to a large community of few thousand families in 2015 that the Riverside Park ground could hardly accommodate all the participants.

Bikshu Nayak, who came from India was the star that shined in bright day light. He sang on stage and off stage. He sang for women, with women; for children, and with children.

The day’s program started with Prayer Song by Snigdha, Srinidhi & Srihita and the lamp was lighted, followed by a

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fantastic classical dance by Nataraja Natyanjali Dance School. Rohana Chada sang a devotional song.

Karthik Kodakandla (Music Director for Telugu Movie Bandook) sang the super hit song from the movie. Also, he has a special song written and composed on GATeS 10 years of Service and Batukamma Celebrations, who added flavor to the jubilant crowds.

President Dr. Venkat Veeraneni & Board Chairman Dr. Sreeni Gangasani welcomed the huge gathering and appraised of the activities of GATeS. Along with directors Narender Reddy, Vivek Reddy, Ratan Elugunti, the reiterated the role of Sponsors and friends that supported the organization. This well-planned and executed event happened because of various other organizations who co-hosted, helped, volunteered in every step.

The event was successful because of the enormous labor put in large number of truly selfless volunteers. DJ was provided

by Divinity Audio while Photography & Videography by Vakiti Creations.

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FINANCIAL NEWS

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MONEYWISE Tax planning for the year ahead presents similar challenges to last year due to the unknown fate of the numerous tax extenders that expired at the end of 2014. These tax extenders, which include the mortgage insurance premium deduction and the sales tax deduction that allows taxpayers to deduct state and local general sales taxes instead of state and local income taxes, may or may not be reauthorized by Congress and made retroactive to the beginning of year.

In the meantime, let's take a look at some of the tax strategies that you can use right now, given the current tax situation. Tax planning strategies for individuals this year include postponing income and accelerating deductions, as well as careful consideration of timing related investments, charitable gifts, and retirement planning. General tax planning strategies that taxpayers might consider, include the following:

∗

Sell any investments on which you have a gain or loss this year. See Investment Gains and Losses, below.

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If you anticipate an increase in taxable income in 2016 and are expecting a bonus at year-end, try to get it before December 31. Keep in mind, however, that contractual bonuses are different, in that they are typically not paid out until the first quarter of the following year. Therefore, any taxes owed on a contractual bonus would not be due until you file a tax return for tax year 2016.

Prepay deductible expenses such as charitable contributions and medical expenses this year using a credit card.

This strategy works because deductions may be taken based on when the expense was charged on the credit card, not when the bill was paid.

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For eg, if you charge a medical expense in December but pay the bill in January, assuming it's an eligible medical expense, it can be taken as a deduction on return.

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If your company grants stock options, you may want to exercise the option or sell stock acquired by exercise of an option this year if you think your AFZAL MITHWANI CPA, EA, PFS (P) 770-817-7000 (Q) 770-817-7001 afzal@univisioncpa.com

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your withholding before year-end can avoid or reduce any estimated tax penalty that might otherwise be due.

Tip: On the other hand, the penalty could be avoided by covering the extra tax in your final estimated tax payment and computing the penalty using the annualized income method.

Here are several examples of what a taxpayer might do to accelerate deductions:

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tax bracket will be higher in 2016.

Exercise of the option is often but not always a taxable event; sale of the stock is almost always a taxable event.

If you're self-employed, send invoices or bills to clients or customers this year to be paid in full by the end of Dec.

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Pay a state estimated tax installment in December instead of at the January due date. However, make sure the payment is based on a reasonable estimate of your state tax.

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Pay your entire property tax bill, including installments due in year 2016, by year-end. This does not apply to mortgage escrow accounts.

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It may be beneficial to pay 2016 tuition in 2015 to take full advantage of the American Opportunity Tax Credit, an above the line deduction worth up to $2,500 per student to cover the cost of tuition, fees and course materials paid during the taxable year. Forty percent of the credit (up to $1,000) is refundable, which means you can get it even if you owe no tax.

Try to bunch "threshold" expenses, such as medical and dental expenses-10 percent of AGI (adjusted gross income) starting in 2013--and miscellaneous itemized deductions. For example, you might pay medical bills and dues and subscriptions in whichever year they would do you the most tax good.

Note: There is a temporary exemption of 7.5 percent through December 31, 2016 for individuals age 65 and older and their spouses.

Caution: Keep an eye on the estimated tax requirements.

Accelerating Income and Deductions Accelerating income into 2015 is an especially good idea for taxpayers who anticipate being in a higher tax bracket next year or whose earnings are close to threshold amounts ($200,000 for single filers and $250,000 for married filing jointly) that make them liable for additional Medicare Tax or Net Investment Income Tax (see below).

In cases where tax benefits are phased out over a certain adjusted gross income (AGI) amount, a strategy of accelerating income and deductions might allow you to claim larger deductions, credits, and other tax breaks for 2015, depending on your situation. The latter benefits include Roth IRA contributions, conversions of regular IRAs to Roth IRAs, child credits, higher education tax credits and deductions for student loan interest.

Caution: Taxpayers close to threshold amounts for the Net Investment Income Tax (3.8 percent of net investment income) should pay close attention to "one-time" income spikes such as those associated with Roth conversions, sale of a home or other large assets that may be subject to tax.

Tip: If you know you have a set amount of income coming in this year that is not covered by withholding taxes, increasing

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Threshold expenses are deductible only to the extent they exceed a certain percentage of adjusted gross income (AGI). By bunching these expenses into one year, rather than spreading them out over two years, you have a better chance of exceeding the thresholds, thereby maximizing your deduction.

No Rendering of Advice : The information contained within this article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for obtaining accounting, tax, or financial advice from a professional accountant. Information presented does not intended to create, and does not constitute, an accountant-client relationship. Readers are advised not to act upon this information without seeking the service of a professional accountant. Any U.S. federal tax advice contained in this article is not intended to be used for the purpose of avoiding penalties under U.S. federal tax law. Accuracy of Information : While we use reasonable efforts to furnish accurate and up-to-date information, we do not warrant that any information contained in or made available through this article is accurate, complete, reliable, current or error-free. We assume no liability or responsibility for any errors or omissions in the content of this article.

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CHAI LOUNGE YEAR-END 2015 IMPORTANT BUSINESS REMINDERS Believe it or not, 2015 is rapidly coming to an end. During this time, you should start reviewing your annual business requirements.

If you’re a corporation, have you held your annual meeting? Annual meetings are required for corporations and this where your corporate minute requirements will be met. Here are some Year-End important matters you may need to go through: 1. Renewal of County Beer / Wine licenses (C-Stores & Gas Stations) 2. Renewal of State Beer / Wine licenses (C-Stores & Gas Stations) 3. Renewal of Business License 4. It is a good time to check and mark your calendar for the following: • Insurances (Property & Liability Insurance, Life Insurance, Vehicle Insurance) • Leases & Contracts (Store leases, Equipment leases, Telephone contract expiration dates) 5. Contact your accountant to review your books and records for maximum tax benefits.

• Reconcile all accounts – Bank and Credit Cards – Petty Cash entries. – Personal funds.

• Prepare Financial Statements – Print year end reports – Make Depreciation entries • Payroll tax liabilities – Payroll forms (W-2, W-3, 940, 941) – 1099’s and 1099-MISC • Print and mail 1096 to IRS

US LAWMAKERS CELEBRATE INDIAN AMERICAN COMMUNITY AT DIWALI Washington (IANS) More than 30 members of US Congress joined about 1,000 people at the annual Diwali event on Capitol Hill, the seat of US legislature, to celebrate the accomplishments of the Indian American Diaspora. The annual celebration, which attracts people and Indian American organizations from all over the US, was organized by Ami Bera and George Holding, Democratic and Republican co-chairs of the Caucus on India and Indian Americans.

It provides an opportunity to meet with members of Congress and other elected officials to celebrate the contributions of the South Asian community in business, technology, health care, arts, academics, and much more. Attendees at the event in the Great Hall of the Library of Congress, included Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine, both Democrats, and the Republican Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee Ed Royce. Diwali is celebrated by nearly a billion people around the world and more than two million people in the US, a media release from Bera's office noted. "This event celebrates who we are and all our community has accomplished," said Bera, the lone Indian American Congressman.

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CHAI LOUNGE HEALTH CARE LAW FOR INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES. If you haven't signed up for health insurance this year, do so now and avoid or reduce any penalty you might be subject to. Depending on your income, you may be able to claim the premium tax credit that reduces your premium payment or reduce your tax obligations, as long as you meet certain requirements. You can choose to get the credit immediately or receive it as a refund when you file your taxes.

Additional Medicare Tax: Taxpayers whose income exceeds certain threshold amounts ($200,000 single filers and $250,000 married filing jointly) are liable for an additional Medicare tax of 0.9 percent on their tax returns, but may request that their employers withhold additional income tax from their pay to be applied against their tax liability when filing their 2015 tax return next April. High net worth individuals should consider contributing to Roth IRAs and 401(k) because distributions are not subject to the Medicare Tax. If you're a taxpayer close to the threshold for the Medicare Tax, it might make sense to switch Roth retirement contributions to a traditional IRA plan, thereby avoiding the 3.8 percent Net Investment Income Tax as well (more about the NIIT below).

Alternate Minimum Tax: The Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) exemption "patch" was made permanent by the American Taxpayer Relief Act (ATRA) of 2012 and is indexed for inflation. It's important not to overlook the effect of any year-end planning moves on the AMT for 2015 and 2016. Items that may affect AMT include deductions for state property taxes and state income taxes, miscellaneous itemized deductions, and personal exemptions. Please call if you're not sure whether AMT applies to you.

Note: AMT exemption amounts for 2015 are as follows: • $53,600 for single and head of household filers, • $83,400 for married people filing jointly and for qualifying widows or widowers, • $41,700 for married people filing separately.

OBAMA WISHES MODI HAPPY DIWALI, REAFFIRMS INDIA-US TIES Washington (IANS) Calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi to wish him a happy diwali, US President Barack Obama has reaffirmed the importance of the US-India partnership in addressing both regional and global issues.

A White House readout of the call on Tuesday said Obama spoke to Modi by phone "to review joint efforts on key areas of bilateral cooperation and to preview global issues ahead of the upcoming G-20 summit, East Asia Summit, and Paris Climate Conference." Modi said President Obama and he "discussed a wide range of other issues as well. It was good knowing how @WhiteHouse is marking Diwali."

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CHAI LOUNGE INDIAN-ORIGIN BASKETBALL PLAYER MAKING WAVES IN US New York (IANS) Veer Singh, a new recruit and the first Indian-origin player to play for Seton Hall School basketball team in New Jersey, has been praised for his skills in the game. Standing tall at 6' 7, the New Yorker plays as a freshman wing and was signed from St. Peter's Preparatory School in New Jersey earlier this year, app.com news website reported on Wednesday. Singh brings a desperately needed deadeye to a roster short on shooters. He is a great defender and a shooter, the report added.

The teammates and the coach are all praise for the player.

WORLD CANNOT BE CONNECTED WITHOUT INDIA, SAYS ZUCKERBERG New Delhi (IANS) Facebook chief executive Mark Zuckerberg on Wednesday reiterated his commitment to India, reiterating his plans to open internet-enabled schools here and underlining India's importance in social platform's global plans. "It is very important to connect people in India (one of the largest democracies) as it is central to our plans of connecting the next billion people and then the whole world," Zuckerberg said during Town Hall-like interactive session at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi. "India is one of those countries which you cannot overlook if you want to connect the world," he said. India currently has one of the largest entrepreneur ecosystem in the world along with the largest number of medium and small enterprises.

INDIAN-ORIGIN ACTOR'S PLAY PART OF ARTS EVENT IN US New York (IANS) "The Elephant Wrestler", a play written and performed by Indian-origin Jacob Rajan, is part of Cohen and Grigsby Trust's Series India in Focus, a six-week long event which began on Friday and which is being held in the US city of Pittsburgh, according to a media report.

As part of the India in Focus event, the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust will be hosting several India-themed events, including "Mystic India", called a "Bollywood dance spectacular", at the city's Byham Theatre. Rajan was born in Malaysia and raised in Wellington, New Zealand, by his Indian parents.

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MOVIE BUZZ

Airlift

RELEASE DATE: JANUARY 22, 2016 STARRING: AKSHAY KUMAR, NIMRAT KAUR, FERYNA WAZHEIR, LENA Mumbai(IANS) Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar, who will be seen in "Airlift", inspired by the evacuation of Indians who were based in Kuwait during the Iraq-Kuwait war, says it can't be compared to Hollywood star Ben Affleck's Oscarwinning film "Argo. This is a complete original story and non-fictional. 'Airlift' is about a Kuwait-based businessman who was stuck along with more than a lakh people who were staying in Kuwait at that time (1990). Talking about his film, Akshay said that he portrays a multi-millionaire businessman who loses everything in the war.

7 Hours To Go RELEASE DATE: JANUARY 08, 2016 STARRING: SHIV PANDIT, VIPIN SHARMA, SANDEEPA DHAR, HIMANSHU MALIK Mumbai (IANS) Filmmaker Saurabh Varma, who has almost shot the major portions of his film "7 Hours To Go", says it's an investigative thriller of the kind that Bollywood doesn't make anymore. Varma said: "All my films are different from each other. And as a filmmaker, it's my conscious decision to make different kind of films. While 'Solid Patels' is a comedy film, '7 Hours to Go' is an investigative thriller film. It has not been explored much," added the "Mickey Virus" director. At the moment I am handling both the films together. I am confident both are of different content," he said.

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Wazir RELEASE DATE: JANUARY 08, 2016 STARRING: AMITABH BACHCHAN, FARHAN AKHTAR, ADITI RAO HYDARI, NEIL NITIN MUKESH, JOHN ABRAHAM Mumbai (IANS) Actors Amitabh Bachchan and Farhan Akhtar will be introducing a new and tipsy way to play chess to the audience - vodka chess - through their upcoming film “Wazir”. The stars had to play vodka chess, a version of chess whereby after the defeat of a pawn, the player has to consume a vodka shot, for a scene in the upcoming film.

Confirming the news, a spokesperson of the film said: “A scene in the film requires both the actors to play this game. It’s a slightly different version of chess which is very interesting”. "Wazir" also features John Abraham and Aditi Rao Hydari in key roles.

Ghayal Once Again RELEASE DATE: JANUARY 15, 2016 STARRING: SUNNY DEOL, OM PURI, SOHA ALI KHAN, NARENDRA JHA Mumbai (IANS) Actress Tisca Chopra says she is enjoying shooting for upcoming action drama "Ghayal Once Again", a sequel to 1990 hit film "Ghayal", with actor and director Sunny Deol. When a user quizzed on Twitter the actress about how was it working with Sunny, the actress replied that Sunny is a gentleman and it was fun working with him. Directed by Sunny, "Ghayal Once Again" will take off from where the first version left. Reportedly, the film is based on a real-life event in the life of a Mumbai Police encounter specialist.

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BOLLYWOOD BUZZ

SANJAY DUTT BIOPIC WILL BE EMOTIONAL, FUNNY: RAJKUMAR HIRANI Mumbai (IANS) Blockbuster director Rajkumar Hirani, who is currently working on a biopic on actor and close friend Sanjay Dutt, says the film will be a fun-filled emotional ride. "It (biopic) will be a very emotional film and equally funny like most of my films. I like to tell human interest stories and I think Sanjay's is one too," Hirani said. According to Hirani narrating someone's life on the silver screen is not a cake walk. "It's really difficult to the tell the whole life of a person in less than three hours," he said, adding that it took hours of meeting with the "Munna Bhai M.B.B.S." star to finalize the first draft of the script. Bollywood heartthrob Ranbir Kapoor will be playing role of Sanjay Dutt in the biopic. Hirani will begin working on the biopic next year.

VARUN DHAWAN SAYS HE WOULD LOVE TO REMAKE ICONIC FILMS 'DARR' AND 'BAAZIGAR'.

Varun was the assistant director in filmmaker Karan Johar's "My Name is Khan" starring Shah Rukh, and will now be seen sharing screen space with the actor in "Dilwale".

When asked which movie of Shah Rukh he would love to remake, the 28-year-old actor said, "There are two actually which I really want to do, may be later, I don't know if I can or not, but 'Darr' and 'Baazigar'.

CLEAN COMEDY MORE APPRECIATED THAN VULGARITY: JOHNNY LEVER

New Delhi (IANS) Trends come and go in the cinematic world, but the fact that clean humor and good comedy reign over "meaningless" entertainers has sustained over the years, says Bollywood's beloved comedian and character actor Johnny Lever, who now simply skips "nonsense" films. "Everybody is doing comedy right from the lead actor to villain and supporting cast. But I have never felt the fear of being neglected or overshadowed. However, he feels that in current times, comedy is so popular that it's almost part of every character in a film.

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I DON'T BELIEVE IN LEGACY: SHAH RUKH KHAN Mumbai (IANS) Shah Rukh Khan, who came from a non-film background, does not believe that his children should follow in his footsteps to pursue a career in acting. The superstar, who's now 50 and hopes to open an acting institute, however says his daughter Suhana is keen to be an actress. "I don't believe in legacy. My father was not an actor. I became an actor and I feel there is no need for my children to become actors. I will not tell them what they should do as I have never been told by my parents what to do. Talking about his dream project he said "But it won't be called Shah Rukh Khan Acting as I'm able to act one kind of acting which sounds very confining."

RELIGION NEVER MY IDENTITY, SAYS DIA MIRZA

Mumbai (IANS) Actress Dia Mirza says religion is something she explored and discovered but has never been her identity.

"I went to a school that followed philosophy of Jiddu Krishnamurthy. I am daughter of Christian father and Bengali mom and rose in a Muslim family so religion has never been my identity it's something I explored through course of time," she said at the Prithvi Festival. "Identification boundary limits a person. Religion and faith should be followed and practiced but should not be an identity," she said. "The day when politics and religion will be treated independently, we can say we live in a democratic country," she said.

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DID YOU KNOW ??

I'M SINGLE, READY TO MINGLE: TANISHAA MUKERJI Mumbai (IANS) Actress Tanishaa Mukerji, who reportedly dated actor Armaan Kohli, says she is now single and ready to mingle. But she is no hurry to settle down. Tanishaa said: "I am very much single and ready to mingle. I am loving being single. I have no plans to settle down, I don't have any pressure from my family. And this is the best phase of my life." Tanishaa is said to have dated Armaan after their stint in "Bigg Boss", and they reportedly parted ways last year. Tanishaa, who will now be seen in Colors' stunt-based reality show "Khatron Ke Khiladi 7", says she also has film projects in her kitty.

KIDS DEVELOP SELF-ESTEEM EVEN BEFORE AGE FIVE New York (IANS) Children may develop a sense of self-esteem even before they begin kindergarten, reveals an interesting research. "We found that by as young as five years of age, self-esteem is established strongly enough to be measured using sensitive techniques," said lead study author Dario Cvencek, research scientist at University of Washington. Self-esteem appears to play a critical role in how children form various social identities.

MEN! SHARE DAILY CHORES TO ENJOY MORE AND BETTER SEX Toronto (IANS) The men with the broadest smile on their face may actually be toiling a little harder. Researchers have found that those men who offer fair contribution to household chores enjoy more frequent and better sex.

BEING FIT A HEALTHY CHANGE IN BOLLYWOOD New Delhi (IANS) Actress Soha Ali Khan, whose mother and yesteryear icon Sharmila Tagore donned a bikini on-screen in the 1960s, says hitting the gym may not have been a trend back then, but a fit frame has now become essential in the movie industry. The 37-year-old, believes a lot has changed over the decades.

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'KHATRON KE KHILADI' PACKS MORE POWER FOR NEW SEASON Mumbai (IANS) “Khatron Ke Khiladi” will make a comeback on the small screen with more action and a bundle of new surprises! With a new host Arjun Kapoor and a new place - Argentina - celebrities including Jay Bhanushali, Sidharth Shukla and "Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa Reloaded" winner Faisal Khan will be adding power to the upcoming season of the stunt-based reality show. With an underlying theme ‘Kabhi Peeda, Kabhi Keeda’, 14 celebrity contestants will overcome their fears when faced with extreme situations, confronted with danger and challenges in the show.

FORMULA TO TAKE PERFECT SELFIES New York (IANS) A computer science doctoral candidate at the Stanford University has developed a formula for taking the perfect selfie using artificial intelligence (AI). Andrej Karpathy, a summer intern with Google DeepMind, has created an AI network that can rank millions of selfies, and work out what makes each successful, wired.com reported. He fed the system with some data about which selfies were "good" or "bad" depending on the number of likes they received, how many followers the user had and the number of tags on the image and tuned its filters to improve the data. It includes The things to avoid include making your head too big and group selfies.

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WHAT’S YOUR RASHI ?

Aries ( 21 March – 19 April ) - Pamper your health and retreat from people's attention. You need to contemplate.

You might be taking a big step this month, into financial, childbirth, sexual, research, health or similar happy things.

These steps will benefit and mature you - still, you should be comfortable with what you're doing. Your wisdom and mellowness are showing. You face an excellent month for far travel, legal affairs, cultural events, religion and higher learning - and for love, creativity and speculation. Your popularity will rise, affectionate friends gather round. Favorable Dates : Dec 2, 8, 11, 27, 20 & 26 Favorable Colors : Blue & White

Libra ( 23 September – 22 October ) - This period will bring a total and deep transformation of relationships on all levels: marital, business, friendship, parent/child, etc. These changes will entail both huge, unconquerable opposition and lucky new opportunities. The "right" choice will in some way lead to a more creative, pleasurable, loving, romantic, life-affirming existence, It will change your social group, your plans for the future, your cherished desires, your taste in entertainment, your political views, and your understanding of yourself. Let this be your time of launch toward a new life and new horizons.

Favorable Dates : Dec 2, 6, 11, 15, 20 & 24 Favorable Colors : Purple & Red

Taurus ( 20 April – 20 May ) - You can give a new task or job a good start this month. Wisdom, love, success in media, education, law and travel are signified. Romance, pleasure, beauty, creativity, games, speculation, winning streaks, joys from children - these fill December. You'll be talking, traveling to meet others, writing - and you'll be attracted, and happy. Home remains sweet and family affectionate.

Though you feel like resting and digesting, life confronts you with many chores. Work hard, but take deep rests also.

Popularity, social delights, flirtation, wishes coming true characterize December. Favorable Dates : Dec 1, 5, 10, 14, 19, 23 & 28 Favorable Colors : Red & White

Scorpio ( 23October – 21 November ) - The accent lies on ambition, career, prestige, mingling with higher-ups this month.

You will have a sturdy, solid base in ambitious zones. A feeling of helplessness will end to be replaced by four weeks of confidence, determination, and strong results. Wishes could come true. You're in the midst of a happy, flirtatious and lucky time.

Your psychic sensitivity and intuition are heightened at this time. Artistic, creative work which expresses a visionary and fantastic quality is very fulfilling to you now. Favorable Dates : Dec 6, 7, 15, 16, 24 & 25 Favorable Colors : Purple & White

Gemini ( 21 May – 20 June) - You will be blessed in career, relations with higher-ups, and community status. You reputation will rise, and you'll find life proceeds smoothly and calmly if you pursue ambitions, prestige situations, and deal with authorities. Be a director rather than a nurturer.

Be ambitious rather than seek security. Luck and expansion will flow into your relationships. The month will bring a breakthrough - you might divorce an unhappy, stubborn partner; or you might marry a new compatible person. An impromptu trip is just what you need to lighten your mood at months’ end. Favorable Dates : Dec 4, 5, 13, 14, 22 & 23 Favorable Colors : Blue & Green Cancer ( 21 June – 22 July ) - Your magnetism and determination reach a strong peak - this could bring attention from the opposite sex, but it can also make you a little fierce or uncompromising in your pursuit of love or business or intellectual or legal goals and spark a negative reaction.

Be gentle. Bosses favor you all month, so make proposals, chat them up. Offbeat or original ideas excite you and you will seek people who can offer you a different way of looking at things. Get out and about, mingle, socialize, chase your dreams, flirt, let others know your needs and desires.

Favorable Dates : Dec 2, 3, 11, 12, 20 & 21 Favorable Colors : Blue & White Leo ( 23 July – 22 August ) - If you have any projects that need to be completed in the next four weeks, finish them now, as forthcoming period brings confusion and delays.

A month of lowered energy, rest and contemplation begins now. Relationships and opportunities are illusive. Your usual daily pursuits would seem drab, meaningless, or curiously unsatisfying, so that it may be difficult to motivate yourself and focus on your work. Do try to avoid situations which you know will provoke or irritate you. Scheduling time for recreation or to attend to a relationship is a good idea now.

Favorable Dates : Dec 4, 5, 13, 14, 22 & 23 Favorable Colors : Purple & White Virgo ( 23 August – 22 September ) - December will take you in a new direction in life. Relationships, career, home, family and personal life are all in the line of transformational fire. There would be opportunities to connect with like-minded beings and perhaps even find some emotional healing through connection. Dealing with or addressing intimate relationships or money and debt issues can be a focus, but it also may be about dealing with the sudden influx of money or power that is coming in.

You will be navigating a new terrain in life. Favorable Dates : Dec 4, 8, 13, 17, 22 & 26 Favorable Colors : Red & Yellow

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Sagittarius( 22 November - 21 December ) - All month, your charisma, effectiveness, luck and determination to speak your piece can take you far, lead to new contacts and opportunities. Moneymaking continues - collect, pay bills, buy/sell, seek lucrative clients, a pay raise. Be cautious communicating too much, or trying to gain one last advantage in a negotiation, could defeat your purpose. it would be a good idea to focus on your strong points. At the end of the month, you'll be able to breathe a sigh of relief that you've set your sails in the right direction. Favorable Dates : Dec 6, 7, 15, 16, 24 & 25 Favorable Colors : Purple & White Capricorn ( 22 December – 19 January ) - You are going to find it hard to focus so expect things to go little bit different than what you had planned. This will not be a good time for you to ask for a raise or promotion or to look for a new job.

You will also want to be vigilant for people who could cause you problems at your work or perhaps someone may try to cause you financial issues at this time. Trusting your intuition right now will take you further than trying to chase frantically after something that's blowing in the wind. Favorable Dates : Dec 2, 5, 11, 14, 20 & 23 Favorable Colors : Blue & Green Aquarius ( 20 January – 18 February ) - This is a good time to make sure your finances and job are secure, do not take unnecessary chances with either area of your life at this time.

You may not want to socialize at this time but you will be upset with yourself later if you let this pass you by. Your ability to study quietly, to concentrate on complex mental work, and to think deeply about serious matters is much better than usual.

This is a good time to organize your affairs and also to seek professional advice about your concerns. Favorable Dates : Dec 7, 9, 16, 18, 25 & 27 Favorable Colors : Yellow & Green Pisces ( 19 February – 20 March ) - You experience sudden insights, make discoveries, come up with fresh solutions to your problems. Your mental processes are speeded up and you move more quickly now and would be more perceptive than usual. You will also want to be surrounded with beauty and harmonious people, and your artistic efforts flourish.

A relationship can be deepened and reborn now, giving new life to your willingness to reveal yourself to your loved one.

Committed relations will remain on firm footing. Charitable and philanthropic impulses are stronger now. Favorable Dates : Dec 2, 4, 11, 13, 20 & 22 Favorable Colors : Blue & Green

Manish Kumar Arora

K.P. Astrologer, Numerologist, Tarot Card Reader & Vastu Consultant

Phone: +91-9871062000 E-mail: manishastrologer@rediffmail.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/manishastroconsultant * All astrological predictions are to be considered friendly advice based on the author’s personal opinions and used for entertainment purposes only. These are not to be considered as promises, guarantees, or psychic predictions. They are simply potentials to be used at the reader’s own discretion.

For important decisions, consult your personal intuition, doctor, accountant, lawyer, educator, or clergy as needed. It is best to be informed on all levels.

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SABRI KABAB HOUSE 6075 Singleton Road, Norcross, GA 30093 770‐263‐6004 www.sabrikababhouse.com

TAVA INDIAN BISTRO Patel Plaza 1711 Church Street, Decatur, GA 30033

THE MUGHALS 5345 Jimmy Carter Blvd. Ste J1 Norcross, GA 30071 (770) 446‐6941

TASTY TAVA GRILL 1850 Lawrenceville Hwy, Decatur, GA 30033 404‐633‐4444

786 KEBAB & CURRY 1905‐B Mall of Georgia Blvd, Buford, GA 30519 678‐546‐0085

AMMA KITCHEN 390 Cumming Street, Alpharetta, GA 30004 770‐475‐7776

CURRYLICIOUS 2400 Satellite Boulevard Duluth, GA 30096 678‐878‐3410 www.curryliciousatl.com

ASMA’S CUISINE 3099 Breckinridge Blvd #114b, Duluth, GA 30096 (678) 380‐9548 www.asmascuisine.com

BHOJANIC Location 1.

3400 Around Lenox Drive, Atlanta, GA 30326 Location 2.

1363 Clairmont Road, Decatur, GA 30033 404‐841‐8472, 404‐633‐9233 www.bhojanic.com

ISTANBUL CAFE 1850 Lawrenceville Hwy #100 Decatur, GA 30033 (404) 320‐0054

KABAB HUT 880 Indian Trail, Lilburn, GA 30047 770‐925‐4440 www.kbhut.com

KARACHI BROAST & GRILL 5775 Jimmy Carter Blvd Ste‐180, Norcross,GA 30071 (678) 291‐0101 www.karachibroastandgrill.com

LAHORE GRILL 1869 Cobb Parkway S. Ste 150 Marietta, GA 30060 (678) 398‐9868 www.lahoregrill.com

BUKHARAA RESTAURANT 3651 F Peachtree Pkwy Suwanee, GA 30024 (770) 817‐1371 www.bukharaa.com

CHAI PANI 406 West Ponce de Leon, Decatur GA, 30030 404.378.4030 www.chaipanidecatur.com

CHAT PATTI Patel Plaza 1709 Church Street, Decatur, GA 30033 (404) 633‐5595 www.chatpattiatl.com

CHINESE DHABA Location 1 ‐ Patel Plaza 1713 Church Street Suite A2, Decatur, Georgia 30033 Location 2 ‐ Global Mall 5675 Jimmy Carter Blvd, Ste 770, Norcross, Georgia 30071 Location 3 ‐ Duluth 3083 Breckinridge Blvd, Ste 130, Duluth, GA 30096 404‐736‐6453 www.chinesedhaba.com

INCHIN’S BAMBOO GARDEN 11105 StateBridge Rd, Ste 200, Alpharetta , GA 30022 770 622 1445 www.bamboo‐gardens.com (678) 515‐8203

NAAN ‘N’ CURRY 3083 Breckenridge Boulevard, Duluth, GA 30096 770‐807‐7270

MASALA INDIAN CUISINE Patel Plaza 1713 Church Street Decatur, GA 30033 404‐296‐9999 www.masaladecatur.com

NAANSTOP 64 Broad Street NW, Atlanta, GA 30303 404‐522‐6226 www.naanstop.com

NILGIRI’S BAKERY & CAFE 2569 Peachtree Parkway, Cumming, GA 30041 404‐917‐0106 www.niramish.com

PALACE RESTAURANT 6131 Peachtree Parkway, Norcross GA. 30092 (770) 840‐7770 www.thepalaceatl.com

SHAHI GRILL 851 Oak Road, Lawrenceville, GA 30044 678‐205‐5819 www.shahigrillatl.com

SHALIMAR KABAB & GRILL Killian Hill Crossing, 4760 Lawrenceville Highway, Lilburn, GA 30047 (770) 674‐4395 www.shalimarkababatl.com

DESI EXPRESS MAGAZINE

FOR ADVERTISING CALL 404-246-3256

DESI YELLOW PAGES HAVEN LOUNGE 375 Rockbridge Road, Lilburn, GA 30047 404‐889‐2321 www.havenfusion.com

PATEL BROTHERS 1711 Church Street Decatur, GA 30033 404‐296‐2696 www.patelbros.com

SRI KRISHNA VILAS Location 1.

5675 Jimmy Carter Blvd, Ste #765 Norcross, GA‐30071 (770) 447‐0049 Location 2.

5815 Windward Pkwy, Ste 100 Alpharetta, GA 30005 (770) 475‐9195, (770) 807‐8945 Location 3.

2255 Callaway ct Cumming, GA 30040 (470) 239‐8804, (770) 333‐9899 www.skvilas.com

SHIVAM GROCERIES 1812 Lower Roswell Road, Marietta, GA 30068 770‐971‐7448

TABLA 77 12th Street, Atlanta, GA 30309 404‐464‐8571

UDIPI CAFE 3300 Peachtree Industrial Blvd, Duluth,GA 30096 (678) 584‐5840 www.udipicafegeorgia.com

URBAN SPICE 4120 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, GA 30005 678‐566‐0169 www.urbanspiceatlanta.com

ZYKA RESTAURANT 1677 Scott Blvd Decatur, GA 30033 (404) 728‐4444 www.zyka.com

GROCERY STORES GEORGIA HALAL MEAT 1707 Church Street, Decatur, GA 30033 (404) 254‐4651

CHERIANS INTERNATIONAL Location 1.

2255 Peachtree Parkway, Cumming, GA 30041 Location 2.

751 Dekalb Industrial Way, Decatur, GA 30033 • (770) 888‐4141, (404) 299‐0842 www.cherians.com

AKSHAR 475 Rockbridge Road, Lilburn, GA 30047 770‐717‐9882

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SHREEJI CASH ‘N’ CARRY 5675 Jimmy Carter Blvd, Norcross, GA 30071 470‐395‐5279 www.shreejicashncarry.com

BISMILLAH IGROCERIES 279 Powers Ferry Road, Marietta, GA 30067 770‐565‐8859 AL HAMRAH 895 Indian Trail Road, Lilburn, GA 30047 770‐381‐2006

APNA BAZAAR 3083 Breckinridge Blvd, Duluth, GA 30096 770‐807‐7776

INDIA PLAZA 2905 Jordan Court, Alpharetta, GA 30004 678‐867‐0388 www.indiaplazallc.com

NEW DELHI IMPORTS 4025 Satellite Blvd, Duluth, GA 30096 770‐623‐9560 www.newdelhiimports.net

SHAHI BAZAAR 851 Oak Road, Lawrenceville, GA 30044 770‐972‐5878 www.shahibazaar.com

SPICES HUT 4150 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, GA 30005 770‐410‐9477 www.spiceshut.com

SUVIDHA Location 1.

425 Ernest Barrett Parkway, Kennesaw, GA 30144 Location 2.

3495 Peachtree Parkway, Suwanee, GA 30024 (770) 419‐7112 / (770) 292‐1992 www.suvidhaonline.com

DESI EXPRESS MAGAZINE

(After Rebate)