Friday gurgaon 14 20 march, 2014 by Friday Gurgaon

14-20 March 2014

Vol. 3 No. 30  Pages 24  ` 7

RNI No. HARENG/2011/39319, Postal Regn. No. GRG/35/2012-2014

A Bench

at the High Table

{ Abhishek Behl / FG }

write to us at letters@fridaygurgaon

t is a daily ritual – early morning, hundreds of lawyers from Gurgaon pack their bags and files and rev their cars, to make the pilgrimage to the Punjab and Haryana High Court based in Chandigarh. While the legal fraternity may have become habitual to this in the last 47 years, life is really very difficult for the increasing number of litigants who have to not only bear the legal costs but also spend a lot of money on their boarding, lodging and travel. Everything seems to require resolution in Chandigarh only. With Gurgaon becoming the financial and corporate capital of Haryana, the number of legal cases and

GURGAON

ustice today is being denied to the people…and even buried without being hurried. At one end of the scale the State does not provide for the bare necessities…and at the other, the Courts do little to protect the aam aadmi’s person and property. For the privileged, it is of course a mockery; what benefit is it to see them punished after 20 years – if that? For a body that is critical of the Executive, and rightly so, and even increasingly comments on areas at the ‘borders’, the Supreme Court (SC) seems to be sadly ignoring the rot within – both in the judicial system and even at its own Court. How else does one explain the amount of cases that are languishing for years and decades – while many have not even been taken up? Tareek pe tareek will only birth more vigilantes. All this is despite numerous ‘alternatives’ being tried – of Lok Adalats, Consumer Courts, Mediation Centres and Panchayats. What system does the SC use for ensuring in-house compliances and productivity? It does not seem to be working. It is time to set up a Panel/Bench to scrutinise all pending matters before the High Courts and the SC. The Panel should be given a 3 months timeframe. We need breakthrough thinking on how to clear backlogs and prioritise new cases – based on well-deliberated and agreed criteria. Timelines and guidelines and norms need to be decided for every type of case (and not just when 'new' something comes up, like the 1 year timeline given for criminal cases against MPs). There may not

Asha PANDEY

Justice, My Lords The Special Courts should also engage with the Fourth Estate, the Media; the other Estates have been pulled up enough, while Media has benefited under the umbrella of Press Freedom. It is time to discuss the separation of Church & State in the Media. All Editors & Publishers need to be called in, in groups or collectively. Why cannot Media be also asked to ‘collaborate’, in national interest? Let Media be in the ‘hot seat’ for a change.

Writs filed in the High Court has also multiplied. The increased travel, cost, inconvenience and delay in justice, has intensified the demand for a separate Division Bench of the Punjab and Haryana Court in Gurgaon. However, the local legal fraternity says that despite the strong need, this decision has always been delayed due to political reasons as the Chautalas wanted to take this Bench to their home district of Sirsa and the present Chief Minister would like it to be set up in Rohtak. Advocate T R Bhatnagar, a senior lawyer, tells Friday Gurgaon that there is an immediate need to set up a Division Bench of the Punjab and Haryana High Court in the Millennium City. It would help reduce the legal costs, end

the need for daily commutes to Chandigarh and specifically benefit numerous Real Estate buyers, developers as well as corporates based in the City. An important legal reason is that a direct first litigation in the form of a Writ can only be filed in a High Court. The rising number of Real Estate disputes, including for acquisition of land by the State/developers, has led to a geometric rise in litigation, which requires all the affected parties to approach the High Court in Chandigarh. The corporates, and Gurgaon based industry, also has to run to the State capital for important legal issues, and feel that a Bench in Gurgaon could be of great service. “We called on the Chief Justice of Punjab and Haryana Contd on p 7 

be unanimity, and there will be few precise answers. The world is not black and white. Judgements need to be made…not just given. Thereafter, let special benches of the SC/HCs, called Special Courts – at 4 Regional locations across India – review the deviations against the timelines and guidelines every month. These Special Courts have another role to play, especially given the new political scenario of coalitions and the increasing power of the States. Although the SC does play ‘vigilante’ with the Executive at the Centre, and even with Delhi as a Union Territory, the High Courts (HCs) across the Country are found quite wanting in this regard – maybe they have more than enough on their plate and/or do not feel the need to be ‘over-active’. This is where the Special Courts can step in. On behalf of the aam aadmi in their Regions, they need to hold Chief Minister’s and Chief Secretary’s more accountable. For example, on the issue of ‘unauthorised colonies’, Master Plans, CLUs and the like, incoming and outgoing Chief Secretaries should sign off on the status at the start and end of the political tenures. This should apply as much to the Cabinet Secretary and all Secretaries at the Centre. Post. These Special Courts can also handle the various PILs (that seem to bog the SC down) – maybe specializing as Regional Teams. Let them hire ex-Judges of HCs and SC on their Panels. These Special Courts would not be part of any ‘heirarchy’ – as between a HC and SC. Let the SC be occupied with ‘graver’ matters of the Nation and its citizens - for Constitutional matters and maybe ‘high profile’ cases – to set an example. u

14-20 March 2014

RNI No. HARENG/2011/39319 Postal Regn. No. GRG/35/2012-2014, VOL.–3 No.–30  14-20 March 2014

Editor:

Atul Sobti

Sr. Correspondents: Abhishek Behl Shilpy Arora Sr. Photographer:

Prakhar Pandey

Sr. Designer:

Amit Singh

Circulation Execs.:

Sunil Yadav Manish Yadav

Sr. Exec Marketing:

Vikalp Panwar

Dy. Manager A/cs & Admin:

Shiv Shankar Jha

Political....

Time to storm a Male bastion Even after decades of democracy, Women in politics have still not got their fair share of governance. In a City like Gurgaon, despite there being 12 Women Councillors (out of a total of 35), there are no women in the top three posts of the Municipal Corporation (MCG). The role of women in decision-making remains negligible. They rarely influence the policies of Parties, let alone the Nation. Usually the working of a woman politician is limited to the Women's wing of the Party. However, there are a few women who, despite all odds, joined politics and are working hard to make a difference. Nisha Singh, Councillor from Ward 30, is one of them.

...P 8

Consulting Art Editor: Qazi M. Raghib

Social... New Age Careers

Editorial Office 213, Tower A, Spazedge, Sector 47, Sohna Road,

Social... Fighting Cancer – the second time round!

Till a few years ago, most youth were looking at Career options in IT, Engineering, Medicine..and of course General Management. With the changing times and perceptions, they have now started to opt for ‘unconventional’ Careers. Now a successful career is more associated with job satisfaction. Students are looking for alternatives that can stoke their passion, while also being good career options.

Gurgaon 122001, Haryana, Phones: +91 124 421 9092/93 Emails:

editor@fridaygurgaon.com letters@fridaygurgaon.com contributions@fridaygurgaon.com subscription@fridaygurgaon.com adsales@fridaygurgaon.com

Whether you are a survivor, a warrior or a caregiver, battling Cancer can take an emotional toll on everyone involved - the battle against this stubborn disease is like trench warfare. And what is it like when you have completed your Cancer treatment and are ready to move on with your life? You’ve gotten used to seeing your doctor less often and things are getting back to normal. ...P 11

...P 10

Friday Gurgaon (Weekly) edited,

Bon Vivant... Banding for the Battle

Wellness... 'Holi Bhang'

published and printed by Atul Sobti on behalf of Arap Media Ventures Pvt. Ltd.

With the onset of Spring, everyone looks forward to the magical festival of colours – ‘Holi’ – celebrated in large parts of India. It is a fun carnival, with everyone coming together to express joy and celebrate life - intertwined with the mythical stories of victory of good over evil. Regardless of age and social status, people come out on the streets to play with powder colours, or get drenched in coloured water squirted by ...P 17 naughty revellers.

from 213, Tower A, Spazedge, Sector 47, Sohna Road, Gurgaon 122018, Haryana. Printed at Indian Express Ltd., Plot No. A8, Sector 7, Gautam Budh Nagar, NOIDA – 201301, Uttar Pradesh

The views expressed in the opinion pieces and/or the columns are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of, and should not be attributed to, Friday Gurgaon or Arap Media Ventures Pvt. Ltd.

C ontents

They are on a mission to enthrall people with their music - and also helping spread some good social messages. Two College Bands of the City – Centrifugal, from ITM University and Southies, from Amity University, Manesar - are participating in Battle Of The Year (BOTY), an Inter-College Music Band Competition organised by the Kingdom of Dreams. ...P 19

Plus Other Stories....

G-Scape ....

Spritual

IF YOU ARE NOT GETTING FG COPIES REGULARLY

Transforming Man’s Nature...................................P 15 Kid Corner

Activities/Events/Exhibitions/ Seminars/......P 12-14 Global

SMS NR to 08447355801

...P 24

‘All Quiet on the Western Front’......................P 21-23

14-20 March 2014

H appenings

LEADing Healthcare

INLEAD, The Indian Institute of Learning & Advanced Development, a leading Institute for Management studies, organised a Colloquium titled, 'Healthcare Administrator - The New Age Influencer'. Dr.Dilpreet Brar [Regional Director-Fortis Memorial Research Institute] was the Chief Guest and Dr. Narottam Puri [Medical Advisor- Fortis Healthcare and Chairman NABH] was the Guest of Honor. K Parijat, Managing Director, INLEAD, said, “We have constituted the Colloquium as a flagship of INLEAD CONNECT, to offer a platform for industry interaction, culminating into ideation, innovation and incubation of thought leadership in the high growth industry sectors - beginning today with the Healthcare Sector.”

A Reality Play

0 girl students from Mata Sundri College, Delhi University, performed a Street Play (Nukad Natak) on “Women's Exploitation” at Grand Mall, DLF Phase 1. The Play focused on the exploitation of women in different sections of society and different professions. It brought to light sexual abuse, honour killings and discrimination against women. The Play ended on a high note, putting forth some startling facts relating to the status of women in India and their living conditions. This 20-minute Play captivated the audience.

Senioritas!

n exclusive Women's Day celebration for Senior Citizens was organized at Samvedna Senior Citizen's Activity Center, located in Sector 57, Gurgaon.

If you have a flair for photography (you needn’t be a professional) and would like to see your clicked pictures appear in FG, send us photographs of Gurgaon (landscape or people) to fridaygurgaongallery@gmail.com

For Subscription SMS FGYES to 8447355801 Media Partner

14-20 March 2014

Nightlife Specials @ Club Rhino @ Club Rhino, South Point Mall, Golf Course Road, Sector 53 Date: Up to March 29 Time: 8:00 pm onwards

Wednesdays Angels Night Enjoy foot-tapping music in the house and free drinks for ladies. Come with friends and loved ones and have an awesome party night.

Thursdays Arabian Nights Enjoy the performance of international belly dancers live on stage.

C oming U p

from around the world - France, Belgium, Netherlands, Sweden, Peru, Turkey, Persia and Egypt.

Nightlife Midival Punditz Live @ i-Kandy, Pullman Gurgaon Central Park, Sector 26 Date: March 15 Time: 7:00 pm onwards Get ready for a night of great music by popular Indian band Midival Punditz, featuring Gaurav Raina and Tapan Raj. The Band will be accompanied by DJ Jitter. Watch them set the house on fire with their rocking music. Art Small Is Beautiful @ Epicentre, Apparel House, Sector 44 Date: March 14 to 16 Time: 11:00 am to 7:00 pm A Group Show of the works of various artists hailing from diverse States of India.

On display will be the works of Jagannath Paul, Nagesh Goud, Subrata Das, Deepa Vedpathak, Ramonkar, Laman Aelay, T. Vaikuntam, Sachin Jaltare, Vivek Kumavat, Sachin Sagare and others. Art Tap-e-Stories @ Epicentre, Apparel House, Sector 44 Date: March 21 to 23 Time: 11:00 am to 7:00 pm Enjoy an Exhibition of period European, Persian and Oriental Tapestries. View the chronicles of life from XVII to XX Century, displaying more than 50 pieces

Festive Celebrations

Exhibition Regal Splendour @ House of Ishatvam, MG Road Date: March 14 to 30 Time: 11:00 am to 7:30 pm An Exhibition of elegant, formal creations featuring a wide range of jewelled, innovatively accessorised cushions. Dance Manipuri Recital @ Epicentre, Apparel House, Sector 44 Date: March 21 Time: 7:30 pm Enjoy an evening of exquisite Manipuri Dance by Kuhelika Basu and troupe.

Music special.

Nightlife Wine And Curiosity Wednesdays @ Iredus, 383 & 384, Sector 29 Date: March 12 to April 30 Time: 7:00 pm onwards Take a mid-week break and satisfy your curiosity about how it feels to party mid-week. Enjoy delicious food with refreshing wine.

Nightlife DJ Aditya Live @ Underdoggs Sports Bar & Grill, Ambience Mall, NH 8 Date: Up to March 20 Time: 8:00 pm onwards Join DJ Aditya as he spins out a mix of bass, dubstep, trap, moombahton, drum and other peppy numbers to get you on the dance floor.

Holi Special @ BluO, Ambience Mall, NH8 Date: March 17 Time: 3:00 pm onwards Celebrate the Festival in a unique way. Besides the usual activities at the Venue, you can enjoy the special Festival Spread conceived by the Executive Chef. Forklore Holi Bash @ 940, Chakkarpur village, DLF Phase IV, Annexe Date: March 16 Time: 11:00 am Celebrate Holi with gaiety, rejuvenation, love, freedom and peace at this day-long bash.Highlights include Cocktails/Mocktails, live DJ, live Dhol performance, unlimited snacks, organic colours and lots more.

Life Colours Rainbow 2014 @ Bristol Hotel, DLF Phase I Date: March 16 Time: 11:00 am Enjoy the Festival of Colours with a musical extravaganza – an Electronic Dance and

Holiguns @ Zorba, MG Road Date: March 17 Time: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm Get into the festive mood of Holi at this colourful event. There will be performances by Germany`s techno king, Jerome Isma-Ae, along with Indian electronic legends like DESU, The Grind, Soundwise, Lifafa and Progressive Brothers. The Event includes performances of over 15 artists, colours, rain dance, water balloons, pools and food and beverages - to help keep your feet tapping while celebrating the true spirits of the Festival.

Music Satinder Sartaaj Live @ Ramada Gurgaon Central, Site No.2, Sector 44 Date: March 16 Time: 7:00 pm onwards Satinder Sartaaj presents a melodious evening with renditions of Sufi numbers a treat for Punjabi soul music lovers. Stand-Up Comedy Gurgaon’s Funniest Day of the Month @ Epicentre Date: March 20 Time: 9 pm Language: Hinglish Gurgaon will laugh harder and louder as it gets it`s very own Comedy Festival, once every month. Watch 'Gurgaon`s Funniest Day of the Month' - offering three rib-tickling back to back comedy shows, featuring different artists and themes, at Epicentre. JOKE JOKER JOKEST is one of India`s leading comedy companies, featuring the Founder, Nishant Tanwar (Joke Singh) and fellow comedian Abijit Ganguly. JJJ creates podcasts and performs live theme-based comedy shows across India. 6:30PM – Stand-up for Gurgaon, by Vikramjit Singh. 7:45PM - India Doesn`t Want to Know, by Nishant Tanwar 9PM - One Knight Stand, by Zakir Khan

14-20 March 2014

Date: March 15 Time: 11:00 am Participate in an Event that has plenty of interactive games and quizzes. 5 'mompreneurs' will introduce their venture to the Group and motivate other moms by recounting their experiences. Workshop Photography Workshop @ Clark’s Inn Hotel, 45-46, Old Judicial Complex, Civil Lines Date: March 19 & 20 Time: 9:30 am The Workshop is aimed at beginners who are seeking professional guidance to achieve a good learning and understanding of Photography. A learned team of professional photographers will help you tap into the knowledge and experience needed to learn the basics of Photography.

Workshop H&B Workshop @ ITM University, Sector-23A Date: March 14 Time: 11:00 am People interested in entering the Data Analytics and Consulting Industry should participate in this Workshop on Consulting & Data Analytics 101. Become aware of the contemporary trends, expectations and requisites of the industry.

Fun n Games RoboMix @ ITM University, Sector-23A Date: March 13 & 14 Bring your Robots and race them through the most rugged terrain and environment. There is no registration fee.

Meet Circle of Moms First Ever Meet @ 21 Gun Salute, Sector 29

Book Launch @ Quill and Canvas, South Point Mall, Golf Course Road, Sector 53 Date: March 15 Time: 4:00 pm Author of Tuki’s Grand Salon Chase, Aneela Babar, will be in conversation with guests. The Book is a heartwarming tale of finding love and hope in the unlikeliest of places.

Music Band of the Year @ Kingdom of Dreams, Sector 29 Date: March 14 to 16 Time: 5:00 pm Enjoy this Inter-College Music Band Competition; watch various college bands perform live and vote for your favourite Band.

Food Hyderabadi Food Festival @ Zambar, Ambience Mall, NH8 Date: Up to March 15 Savour a Connoisseur’s selection from the home and royal kitchens of Hyderabad - a selection of dishes that reflect both the influence of the South and the Nawabi influence of Lucknow. Indulge in the delicate delights of Hyderabad - with a selection of Kebabs, Curries, Breads and Biryanis.

C oming U p

Delhi's

Culture-scape Art An Ever-persistent Spirit @ MEC Art Gallery, Khan Market Date: March 20 to April 15 Time: 11:30 am to 7:30 pm (Sunday closed) An Exhibition of the works of Kolkata-based artist Monideep Saha. Renowned for his painting proficiency, this Exhibition reveals his most recent celebration of Kolkata and its timeless vision. Music Bhakti ki Awaaz @ FICCI Auditorium, Tansen Marg Date: March 14 Time: 6:00 pm Enjoy the biggest talent hunt in Devotional Music. Witness 10 handpicked singers in the Delhi finals sing the choicest Devotional Songs – Bhajans by Anup Jalota, Daler Mehendi and Sudha Malhotra. Spectators will also get to hear Anup Jalota sing Bhajans. Exhibition Aadi Chitra @ AIFACS, 1 Rafi Marg Date: March 10 to 16 Time: 11:00 am to 7:00 pm On display are a collection of tribal paintings, which depict positive themes and subjects - ranging from religious to secular, Gods and Goddesses to animals and birds, lifecycles to harvests and celebrations, and the five basic elements of Mother Earth. Dance Contemporary Dance @ Kamani Auditorium, 1, Copernicus Marg Date: March 15 Time: 11:30 am A 'Contemporary Dance Show', choreographed by Sonu Singh and Shikha Gusain.

Cinema Kung Fu Nuns @ Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, CV Mess, Janpath Date: March 14 Time: 7:00 pm A spiritual journey that takes you into the lives of the Kung Fu Nuns - the nuns of the Drukpa lineage - who continue to break moulds with their practise of Kung Fu (or the Dragon dance).

14-20 March 2014

THE WEEK THAT WAS

 Fresh charges (new FIR) are levelled against Minister Kataria, in the ‘bogus votes’ case. 16 Councillors, including the Mayor, join the BJP. They are allied with the local MP, Rao Inderjit Singh, who has moved from the Congress to the BJP.  NH8 Concessionnaire is running the streetlights (about 1,400) on the e-way on diesel gensets – the power connection has been cut, owing to a Rs 50 lakhs overdue amount, pending for years.  A policeman and his parents – residents of Sector 9 - are booked for the death of his wife; 2 are killed as a truck rams into a stationary vehicle on NH8, near Hero Chowk; a youth is killed in an accident in Sector 31.  A woman from Palam Vihar alleges blackmail and rape over 2 years; a nurse in a Nursing Home alleges rape by a person who promised her marriage; a rape survivor is threatened on her way to court - a person is held.  A mother files a case of kidnapping, despite her daughter getting married on her own volition; 3

minor girls go missing, in different parts of the City – they have been allegedly kidnapped; 2 minor boys from Sheetla Colony go missing.  A farmer, who had seriously injured a private sector director in a hit-and-run case, is nabbed within 48 hours.  A gun smuggler is caught; bikers threaten a woman and snatch her bag, in Udyog Vihar; miscreants fire at a showroom in New Colony – 3 are booked.  A taxi driver is rewarded by the Police Commissioner, for his bravery. He nabbed an armed criminal and his accomplice, who were trying to snatch his vehicle.  An online fraud of over Rs 1 crore is being investigated – involving a Mumbai businessman who ordered statues from a Gurgaon-based company. 6 people are held.  Employees of a private company together loot a car near the Sikanderpur Metro Station; GPS facility in a car helps police nab a car thief.

4U 4

Tips

by ShahnaZ Herbal Cosmetic Queen Padma Shree Shahnaz Husain is the CEO of the Shahnaz Husain Group – India’s leading company in the field of natural beauty and anti-aging treatments.

I wear contact lenses. Is it safe to apply kajal (pencil) on the inner rim of my eyes?

Tania. B

WINNER

You should apply kajal, eye pencil or eyeliner below the lashes on the lower lids and above the lashes on the upper eyelids. They should not be applied on inner rims of eyes. Contact lenses should be put on before putting on make-up and should be taken out before removing make-up. Ask the beauty expert questions on skin, hair and beauty. The best question (picked by Shahnaz Husain) will receive a gift hamper from the Shahnaz Husain Group. Write to us at letters@fridaygurgaon.com

Watch and listen to

'Hai Ye Gurgaon Meri Jaan' a ballad on Gurgaon, based on the legendary song... 'Ye hai Bombay Meri Jaan'.

 There is an attempt to rob Rs 30,000 from an auto driver outside a bank on Mehrauli Road – 2 people are caught by the public; a man is robbed of Rs 3 lakhs near Subhash Chowk; a businessman is duped of Rs 65,000; Rs 20,000 is looted from a shopkeeper in South City II - the thieves get way on a stolen scooter.  NHAI and the Police do a U-turn on the Ambience U-turn.  BJP complains to Election Commission against the MCG Commissioner, accusing him of violating the model code of conduct.  MCG Commissioner asks for all building plans sanctioned from 2008 to be re-verified; an Advertising Company is asked to pay Rs 25 crores ‘dues’, by the MCG; MCG scraps another of its unique ideas – of fibre benches!  2 employees in the DC’s office are suspended for dereliction of (Election) duty.  A clogged sewage line leads to sewage spilling on to Sushant Lok I roads. Residents are very upset with the builder, Unitech.  Unseasonal rain is damaging the crops; many farmers are harvesting early now.

FORM IV Statement about ownership and other particulars about newspaper (Friday Gurgaon) to be published in the first issue every year after the last day of February 1. Place of publication: 213, Tower A, Spazedge, Sohna Road, Gurgaon, Haryana 2.

Periodicity of its publication:

Weekly

3. Printer’s Name : Atul Sobti Nationality : Indian Address : H909, South City,Vill. Silokhara, Gurgaon, Haryana 4. Publisher’s Name : Atul Sobti Nationality : Indian Address : H909, South City,Vill. Silokhara, Gurgaon, Haryana 5. Editor’s Name : Atul Sobti Nationality : Indian Address : H909, South City,Vill. Silokhara, Gurgaon, Haryana 6.

Names and addresses of individuals who own the newspaper and partners or shareholders holding More than one percent of the total capital.

Sl. Shareholders Name Address Atul Sobti H909,SouthCity,Vill Silokhara, I Gurgaon, Haryana II Emerging Securities Pvt Ltd. 106, Oriental House, Gulmohar Park Commercial Complex, New Delhi-110049 III Meher Bajwa A 14 / 16 DLF Phase 1, Gurgaon 122002, Haryana

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHKm54U913g

I, Sh. Atul Sobti, hereby declare that the particulars given above are true to the best of my knowledge and belief.

OR View it at the FG Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/fridaygurgaon

Date : 01/03/2014

Signed (Atul Sobti) Signature of Publisher

14-20 March 2014

C over S tory

A Bench at the High Table  Contd from p 1 High Court in 1999, and took up the matter of setting up a Bench in Gurgaon, as the local litigants as well as lawyers are facing problems. We were given a patient hearing but nothing moved afterwards,” says Bhatnagar. He points out that while the proposed ‘Tower of Justice’ (new judicial complex) in Gurgaon is a positive step, justice would remain ineffective if Gurgaon does not get a separate Division Bench of the High Court. The Tower of Justice will house 55 District and Sessions Courts. The building will have a provision of 15 additional courtrooms, with each floor of the 9 storied building having waiting areas as well as seating arrangements for Assistant District Attorneys. Durgesh Boken, a senior lawyer, feels that empowering Gurgaon with a Division Bench would solve more problems than setting up this Building, as there are just too many cases of Gurgaon pending in the High Court in Chandigarh. Even currently, the number of cases, including Writ petitions and Appeals, being filed in the High Court is the

most from Gurgaon, says Boken. These facts eminently qualify Gurgaon for being awarded a Division Bench of the High Court in the City. A lawyer alleges that the proposed National Law College that was to be established in Gurgaon, has now been set up in Sonipat, only because the Chief Minister wanted that. The lawyers point out that if a separate High Court Bench can be set up in Jammu, and if Nainital can have a High Court (while the Uttaranchal capital is in Dehradun), why cannot a Division Bench be set up in Gurgaon – the commercial capital of Haryana? Almost

half the revenue of even the State - in terms of taxes and government levies - is contributed by the Millennium City. Senior lawyer Vidya Raja opines that two things that a Division Bench in Gurgaon would immediately impact would be the litigation cost and the timely delivery of justice. The current inordinate delays would be severely reduced. She also supports the need for an independent High Court (just) for Haryana, as it will help greatly in reducing the burden on the (combined) High Court of Punjab and Haryana. Gurgaonbased lawyer Ram Avatar Gupta, who has been making the rounds of Chandigarh since his entry into the profession, says that the time has come for the political parties in Haryana to come together and think about the welfare of the people and the interests of justice, rather than just playing parochial politics. “Gurgaon, despite being less empowered politically, has the financial and corporate mass to rightfully seek a separate Division Bench. In fact it is long overdue, and the State should immediately set it up and then start working for an

A new High Court for Haryana would require a Bill to be passed in the State and the National assemblies, which is quite a tall order. At the time of the formation of Haryana in 1966, the State government did not favour a separate High Court for Haryana - and the Punjab High Court became the Court for both the States. While neither Prime Minister Morarji Desai nor the then Home Minister were in favour of separate High Courts, the Chief Ministers of Punjab and Haryana also preferred a common High Court – especially when faced with the prospect that their independent High Courts would be ‘overseen’ by the Delhi High Court. The Punjab High Court had ‘descended’ from the Lahore High Court, which was a powerful institution with a great legacy. Recounting the story behind the joint High Court for Punjab and Haryana, former Delhi High Court Chief Justice Rajinder Sachar writes that in 1966 there was a very strong demand by the legal and political fraternity of Haryana, for having a separate High Court. At the time of India’s Independence, The Punjab High Court had jurisdiction over Delhi. Thereafter a Circuit Court had started in Delhi in 1953 - which ultimately transformed into the Delhi High Court. When Delhi had a Circuit Court, the Gurgaon Bar Association had suggested that the Delhi Court should have jurisdiction over Gurgaon, but it was not agreed to. Sachar writes that in the 1966 political situation it was obvious that if separate High Courts were asked for by Punjab or Haryana, then jurisdiction over Chandigarh would be vested with the Delhi High Court. This would mean that all the Writs and original jurisdictions (of Punjab and Haryana cases) would go to the Delhi High Court. Importantly, all challenges to orders passed by both the governments would have to be fought before the Delhi High Court – meaning inconvenience, cost and ineffectiveness… apart the embarrassment of both governments being answerable to an outside High Court. There was also (this is India) a most ‘practical’ reason of wanting ‘control’ in the appointment of High Court judges.

independent High Court for the State of Haryana”, he says. The demand for an independent High Court, however, has deeper implications. While the politicians (and even lawyers) of Haryana may want a separate High Court, it would have to be within Chandigarh only. They would not like to lose their grip on the State Capital, and their (dormant) demand for the Union Territory of Chandigarh to be their sole State capital. Conversely, while the political parties and lawyers in Punjab do not oppose the demand for a separate High Court for Haryana, they obviously want it to be set up outside Chandigarh. Gurgaon MP Rao Inderjit Singh tells Friday Gurgaon that the increasing litigation in Haryana obviously called for a separate High Court, but it should be set up in the State capital only. He also says that the setting up a Division Bench in Gurgaon could help the local people in a big way, as the City, while becoming an new-age metropolis, has become (and maybe that’s part of the ‘growth’ story) notorious for ever-increasing litigations. Gurgaon-based lawyer Gupta agrees that right now the State could do with an independent High Court and Gurgaon with a Division Bench. He alleges that it is nothing but political inertia and local differences that have ensured that the State could not get a separate High Court, despite emerging as an economic powerhouse in the country. The Gurgaon lawyers, when asked about the recent utterances by Chief Minister calling for the bifurcation of

the High Court, say that this is only public posturing as the elections are nearing. Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, in a Conference of Chief Ministers last year, had called for the bifurcation of the premises, judges, staff and other resources of the Punjab and Haryana High Court – saying that a separate High Court is the Constitutional right of the State. He had also called for an adjustment in the ratio of judges (between Punjab and Haryana) to 50:50, as the litigations arising in Haryana were far more than in neighbouring Punjab. The demand by the Chief Minister finds an echo in the legal fraternity of Haryana, as there have been very few judges from the State who have presided as Chief Justices in the High Court which many of them term as discrimination. A separate High Court will also provide a new route for elevation to the Supreme Court - which will benefit many judges from the Haryana cadre. Taking a cue from history (see Box), many of the reasons - for the 1966 decision - are now reason enough for having a Division Bench of the High Court in Gurgaon. While a separate High Court of Haryana is ‘debatable’ – and more so politically, there should be no further debate in the setting up of a Division Bench - though it may need the final push of a South Haryana lobby (preferably a CM!). The commercial capital, the Millennium City, deserves this – it needs to be courted accordingly. u

{ Abhishek Behl / FG }

write to us at letters@fridaygurgaon

espite Gurgaon going to the polls on April 10, most of the political parties have still not officially declared their candidates - with only the AAP declaring the name of Yogender Yadav as nominee for the Lok Sabha seat. Yadav, in a recent fundraiser, said that he and the Aam Aadmi Party would work towards brining about cleaner politics and governance in the State - which have been compromised on account of the nexus between politicians, builders and bureaucrats. While AAP was supposed to launch Yadav’s campaign with a Kejriwal roadshow, it was postponed due to the AAP leader’s engagements in Gujarat and Mumbai. Yadav also said that he had asked the Party to give him at least two months, if it wanted him to fight the Gurgaon Lok Sabha seat, as it is a large constituency. While the Party did grant him the time, the AAP campaign has still not caught the imagination of the people; perhaps their star campaigner Kejriwal's presence is required, to ignite the fervour. AAP has yet to create a system, though it has been able to register a large number of volunteers. Yogender Yadav was for a moment stumped while addressing the Party workers, when they said that instead of fighting elections in the entire country, AAP should have stuck to Delhi and Haryana. He then answered that some others in the Party also believed so, and the answer will now come from the election result. He however asserted that their goal was not only to win elections but also to change the manner in which politics is ‘played’ in the country. He said that the reason why the BJP did not even try to ‘buy’ MLAs in Delhi was only because AAP had acted as a political watchdog - and has now set a standard for other parties. Meanwhile, the BJP has got a shot in the arm with the entry of South Haryana strongman and current Gurgaon MP, Rao Inderjit Singh – and that too well in time. The Gurgaon MP has promised the people of Haryana, especially those in his political constituency of South Haryana, that ending the discrimination in development and employment, and the building of infrastructure, would be his top priority. While Rao Inderjit has strong support among the Yadavs, his entry into the BJP will also enable him to get the upper caste Brahmin, Bania and Rajput votes, while other OBCs are also likely to vote for him. Modi's OBC tag is also likely to play a motivating factor in other OBCs voting for

14-20 March 2014

P olitical

Battleground Gurgaon the BJP. However, what can trouble Rao is a strong Muslim Congress candidate, who can get the Meo votes - which are almost 4 lakhs in number - and that too en bloc. However, it is most likely that the Congress will field Chiranjeev Rao, the son of the Power Minister - another Yadav strongman, Captain Ajay Yadav. If this happens then it is likely that the Yadav votes will get divided, but the relative inexperience of Chiranjeev could prove to be a handicap – especially in garnering Meo votes in large numbers. The Meos in Mewat could either vote for Mohd Iliyas from INLD, Zakir Hussain or Aftab Ahmed – depending on which of them gets their Party’s ticket. Yogender Yadav from AAP could also get almost 10 per cent of the Meo votes, and this will leave the Congress candidate a little weakened. It would also be to the

prakhar PANDEY

advantage of Rao Inderjit Singh if the Muslim votes get split, and his loyal Yadav supporters as well upper caste BJP walas vote for him. Another important consideration, which till the last elections has been discounted in urban-rural seats like Gurgaon, is the impact of the urban voters - who are almost 3 lakhs in number. AAP leader Nisha Singh pointed out that urban residents in Gurgaon have realised that it is futile to vote for traditional parties; and like Delhi, they will vote for change this time. While the AAP's focus and claims on the urban voters may be right, it has to be noted that those who voted in Delhi were predominantly urbanites from the lower middle class of the society, who had been badly hit by inflation, and lack of transport and civic facilities. In Gurgaon this class is not that significant; and most people

The Real (non-Estate) Test

espite the Congress facing almost a revolt in Haryana, with first Gurgaon MP Rao Inderjit Singh and now Vinod Sharma (a close aide of CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda) leaving, the Party leaders in Gurgaon are still hopeful that the strong roots of the Party and the munificence that it has bestowed on the people - and particularly on its supporters - will keep it in good stead in the ensuing Lok Sabha polls. Vipin Khanna, President, Gurgaon District Congress (Urban), asserts that their Party is a large ocean and leaders who are leaving now are but small drops of water. It is a different matter that the Congress CM has not been able to get adequate water supply from that ocean to the City, or prevent its misuse of water by builders. The Congress leader is confident that the extensive development work carried out in Gurgaon in the last 10 years will motivate the voters to select his Party. In his opinion, Congress is the only organisation that has the ability to accommodate all castes and communities in Haryana - and that is the reason why it has been winning. When asked about corruption, Khanna suggests that this issue is raised by those people who are disgruntled and have some personal axes to grind. He also refers to opposition parties and asks which one is free of corruption. Referring to AAP, Khanna asserts that the Party has failed to deliver the goods in Delhi, and it would be difficult for Kejriwal and his ilk to make an impact in Haryana. “In Outer Delhi, none of the AAP candidates won, and the voters preferred to go for ‘traditional’ parties,” he asserts. He says that the traditional vote bank of the Congress, and the new urban voters in Gurgaon, will prefer a secular Party like the Congress, which has been able to develop Gurgaon into a world-class City. Prior to Congress rule,

Khanna says that Gurgaon was a small town with not much urban development. He claims that the entire development has taken place because of the Hooda government. When asked about the discrimination against South Haryana, and Gurgaon in particular, Khanna dismisses it again with the argument that it is just a political ruse that is being used by Party rebels, and those who are against the all-round development of Haryana. The Congress leader also negates any impact on the prospects of the Party candidate due to the exit of Rao Inderjit Singh, saying that a leader may be big but no one is bigger than the Party - and that any leader who has left the Congress has been a loser in the long run. The Congress leadership is looking for a candidate in Gurgaon who is acceptable across the constituency, and very soon the name would be finalised by the High Command. Khanna says that he became the President of the Urban unit in Gurgaon without asking for this post, as he has been serving the Party for the last several years. “I have worked with CM Hooda for the last 25 years, and wish to reassure everyone that his intentions are never negative towards anyone”, he says, while answering the charge of the MCG targeting the property of an MCG Councillor who is supposed to be close to Rao Inderjit Singh. Despite the pressure, and attacks being faced by the Congress from outside and inside, Khanna, a veteran Congressman, does not lose his cool. And like a traditional Party loyal, he assures that everything is calm - even though a storm may be brewing.u

living in gated communities prefer more of discussion than action. The City has been witness to urban apathy towards voting, and it will be a challenge for Yadav and his team to mobilise the classes on the polling day. The BJP cadre, though earlier upset with the ‘gatecrashing’ of Rao Inderjit, seems to have made up its mind to support him, for the bigger cause of making Modi the next PM, and help end the almost 10 year political ‘vanwaas’ of the BJP.

BJP embraces Rao Inderjit Singh at Samman Samaroh

In a major show of both unity and strength, the BJP this week organized a major event to felicitate the entry of Rao Inderjit Singh into its fold, with the State Party Chief, Ram Vilas Sharma, lauding the contributions made by the Gurgaon MP and his family to the State of Haryana, particularly his Lok Sabha constituency of Gurgaon. Sharma, while addressing the large gathering, said that Yadav was welcome into the Party because he had a clean image and an honest persona - which was the need of the hour. “We will not allow corrupt politicians and henchmen of the Congress to enter the BJP or any alliance partner”, asserted Sharma, while obliquely referring to the recent efforts being made by Congress leader Venod Sharma to join Kuldip Bishnoi's Haryana Janhit Congress. He also said that the Aam Aadmi Party was a tool created by the Congress, to prevent Narendra Modi from becoming the next Prime Minister of India. Taking a dig at Kejriwal, Sharma said that the life of a 'jhaadu' – the symbol of the AAP - is only 50 days, and that was the reason why the Party lost power in just 49 days. Gurgaon MP Rao Inderjit Singh, who was felicitated along with his supporters from the Haryana Insaaf Manch, asserted that he joined Narendra Modi because of his commitment to the country and ability to bring about development in Gujarat. Singh alleged that a Prime Minister who could not safeguard the respect of his government, and proved to be more of a silent spectator than an administrator, did not deserve to rule the country. He added that the Congress in Haryana was run like a private company, and there has been no justice given to the people of the State - barring some specific areas. The Gurgaon MP also reiterated that he and his supporters have

P olitical

14-20 March 2014

come into the BJP as followers, and not as leaders. Calling the attention of the BJP leaders and supporters, Rao Inderjit asserted, “Please accept us in the Party fold as your own, and I promise that all of us will follow the Party line and strengthen the ranks, to ensure Modi comes to power in Delhi”. This statement by Yadav elicited the maximum response, and brought smiles

{ Shilpy Arora / FG }

write to us at letters@fridaygurgaon

ven after decades of democracy, Women in politics have still not got their fair share of governance. In a City like Gurgaon, despite there being 12 Women Councillors (out of a total of 35), there are no women in the top three posts of the Municipal Corporation (MCG). The role of women in decision-making remains negligible. They rarely influence the policies of Parties, let alone the Nation. Usually the working of a woman politician is limited to the Women's wing of the Party. However, there are a few women who, despite all odds, joined politics and are working hard to make a difference. Nisha Singh, Councillor from Ward 30, is one of them. “My aim is to make Gurgaon a safe place for Women, and make them believe – and then act accordingly - that the City is of them, for them and by them. Participation of women in politics is increasing at the national level, but it should also happen at the District and Panchayat level,” says Nisha. Many new-age women politicians feel that politics is not a battleground, but a platform to effect social change. The aspirations are high even in the rural areas. “We want to show the world that if women are given a chance to be decision-makers, they can make a difference. I was earlier never interested in politics; but I realised that there is a need to take active part in politics, so that issues

to the faces of the BJP workers and leaders, who had been taken aback by the entry of this powerful leader into their Party. Notably, BJP in Haryana does not have a leader who matches the stature and persona of the Rewari scion. Rao Inderjit Singh called on his own supporters as well as the existing Party ranks to also get ready for the next battle, in the form of State elec-

tions scheduled for this winter. Political analysts say that with Modi at the Centre, it could be the best possible shot for Rao Inderjit Singh at the post of Chief Ministership of the State - a feat that was achieved by his father (Rao Birendra Singh). Speaking on this occasion, GL Sharma, a close aide of Rao Inderjit, said that they would work hard to ensure that the Party wins all the Lok Sabha seats in Haryana. He said the Gurgaon MP had joined the BJP because it was the demand of not only his supporters but also the people of the State, who wanted to end the misrule of the Congress. Those who were present on the occasion included former BJP MP Sudha Yadav, BJP State incharge Suresh Bhatt, Tejpal Tanwar, Anil Yadav, Rao Abhay Singh, Mahesh Yadav, Umesh Agarwal, Manish Wazirabad, Advocate Baljit Malik, Rajesh Yadav, Deepchand Fouji and other leaders of BJP and the Haryana Insaaf Manch.

Gurgaon MCG turns Saffron

A large number of the Councillors of Municipal Corporation of Gurgaon, including Mayor Vimal Yadav, Senior Deputy Mayor Yashpal Batra and Deputy Mayor Parminder Kataria, who support Rao Inderjit Singh, joined the BJP on this occasion. Although the absence of Batra on the dais raised questions about his joining the Party, the suspicions were laid to rest by Rao Inderjit, who asserted that Batra had indeed joined the BJP. In political circles Batra has been known to be ‘tricky’ customer; recently a building owned by his close relatives had been demolished, allegedly after he got closer to the Rao Inderjit camp - much to the discomfiture of the Chief Minister. Deputy Mayor Parminder Kataria, who had left the BJP because he could not get the Party ticket for the MCG elections, termed his reentry as a homecoming.u

Aam Aadmi Party has opened its new office at Old Judicial Complex, Sector 15, near Mor Chowk. According to the Gurgaon District Coordinator Dr. (Col) SC Talwar, “This Office will help co-ordinate and organise the large number of members that AAP has in Gurgaon. The response is huge and we thank the people of Gurgaon, who are looking to elect Yogendra Yadav.” The Gurgaon Lok Sabha constituency has registered around 2 lakh members of AAP 0 the highest number Pan India. People have lost all faith in the current governance, added Dr Talwar.

Time to storm a Male bastion

Asha PANDEY

in our area - be they civic or social - get addressed immediately,” says Seema Pahuja, Councillor, Ward 31. Women volunteers at political parties are also making an important contribution. 24-year-old Kirti, a young Civil Engineering student, has been working with the Congress Party for the six months. She is deeply involved in Media co-ordination and handling the Student wing of the Party. She also gives suggestion to the candidates on a range of issues - including Women’s safety and price rise. Shalu (name changed), a volunteer at

AAP, handles the Student wing and the administrative work of the Party. These women may not have a thorough understanding of the country’s political system, but through hard work and determination, they are embark on a new journey in Indian politics - in which Women can have an equal participation. Indian politics has many times witnessed ‘dummy’ Women politicians, which raises question on the relevance and engagement of Women in the Indian political system. The scenario in small towns, tehsils and villages is even worse. Mukta Parihal,

Senior Officer, Water Department, Haryana, informs, “Even when a women ends up becoming a Sarpanch, a Councillor or an MLA, most of the decision making is done by her husband and other male members of her family – though their husbands are called ‘mukhiyapati’, ‘parshadpati’ or ‘vidhayakpati’.” For Rishwa Walia, a resident of Sector 57, this is a major reason that people don’t vote for Women candidates. “I don’t vote for them as they don’t participate in politics actively. There is hardly any Woman politician in the State who takes decisions independently and speaks her mind,” she says.

betterment of every village and will soon be reflected at the national level. “Women are not well-represented. No political party is willing to give a quota to Women. They only talk about Women’s issues. One can find many competent women in a city like Gurgaon, but then the lack of opportunities to join politics is a major issue,” feels Seema. Modern women, however, don’t think that quota is required for Women to have equal representation in politics. “If we give Women a quota, it means we are not considering them equal to men,” says Pragya, a student of Amity University.

Is quota a solution?

Women in the City have great expectations from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). Women feel that the Party can play a major role in their development. “AAP is a Party that has a non-communal view and thus can focus more on Women’s safety and Women empowerment. Besides, AAP has aggressively involved Women at various important positions, even to handle important political activities. That is what makes me feel that the Party is doing better than its counterparts, when it comes to the participation of Women in politics,” says Rishwa. Women candidates should therefore use politics as a platform to prove that they can perform just like their male counterparts - and even better.u

The Women’s Reservation Bill, to reserve 33 per cent of the Lok Sabha seats for women, was conceptualised and introduced in Parliament long ago. The aim was to help eradicate the patriarchal system and to improve the engagement of women in Indian politics. However, the Bill is still pending in the Lower House. Undoubtedly the reluctance of political parties to pass the Bill reflects old patriarchal mindsets and lack of belief in Women candidates. There is a need to understand that a quota could be a major relief for Women in villages. Participation of Women at the grass-roots level politics – at Panchayat and District level – will help in the

A ray of hope

14-20 March 2014

{ Shilpy Arora / FG }

New Age Careers

write to us at letters@fridaygurgaon.com

ill a few years ago, most youth were looking at Career options in IT, Engineering, Medicine..and of course General Management. With the changing times and perceptions, they have now started to opt for ‘unconventional’ Careers. Now a successful career is more associated with job satisfaction. Students are looking for alternatives that can stoke their passion, while also being good career options. Friday Gurgaon talks to a few youngsters who took up such unconventional subjects and are enjoying a successful Career.

A Beer Cicerone

A smartly-dressed young woman playfully pours Beer into a mug. Appearances can be deceptive. Meet Sugapta Das, a certified Beer Cicerone. She is the leader of a team of Brew Masters in a five star hotel. When Sugapta decided to join the Beer Cicerone Certificate course at Amity University, she was fairly clueless about the job prospects. But her love for Beer and a passion to learn everything about the beverage made her excel in the field. “After completing my one year Certificate course, I got a job at Le Meridien. Beer Cicerones are paid better than Brew Masters and even Head Chefs today,” she says. Owing to the growing popularity of Beer, there is an increased demand for standards in beer service, handling and presentation. Beer Cicerones are employed by pubs,

bars, clubs and restaurants to offer customers a better Beer experience. Recently introduced in the country, a Beer Cicerone course is regarded as one of the most difficult Beer education programmes. Prof K.R Mathur informs, “A Beer Cicerone needs to have knowledge and skills to guide Beer lovers about Beer culture, including its historic and artistic aspects. It sounds pretty simple but, trust me, all students don’t clear the three levels in the course in a single attempt.” The Course offers a combination of mathematics, chemistry, brewing and presentation skills so that a Beer Cicerone knows how to serve Beer, various Beer styles, Beer flavours, its evaluation, complete brewing process, ingredients, and the right food to complement the different types of Beer. Students from any background can take up the Course. Be prepared to spend long hours mixing and serving drinks! Sugapta is glad to have taken up the Course, as she enjoys the nightlife in the City. She however feels that society still doesn’t encourage women to take up such careers. That is why Sugapta, who hails from Kolkata, hasn’t even told her family about her job.

Exam Scam?

group of parents has filed a case in the High Court (Case No. CWP - 4594-2014) against the alleged malpractice in the declaration of Haryana NTSE 2013-14 Results, and asked for a re-examination of the same. Certain discrepancies were noticed when the NTSE Haryana results were made public. Out of a total of 90 students selected, 53 were from one school, at the NTSE first stage result. It is alleged that while SCERT Haryana had not yet released the result on their website and neither had they given out any information, how was the result known to the particular school in advance – that they even advertised their success? Even the meritorious students from other schools were not selected, despite their marks (calculated after tallying with the answer key) being above the cut off. It is further alleged that only the birth date of the student and the parents’ names has been mentioned along with the result, but the most obvious items – the Roll Number and the Centre – do not find any mention. Other States even mention the School name and the District. Why was the SCERT result so secret this time, question some parents? Why is SCERT not transparently releasing results on its website, as in the past? u

An Online Teacher

Ruhana always wanted to become a Teacher, but she was not interested in the traditional half-day Teaching job. She therefore joined a vocational course in E-teaching in her college. “I had not planned for it but the curriculum sounded very interesting. I followed my heart and joined the Course. I didn’t know a small vocational course would help me get a job at an MNC,” smiles Ruhana. While completing her graduation in Sanskrit, Ruhana also learnt about Online Teaching. Today she is working with an MNC as a Sanskrit E-teacher. She has been handling a research project on Sanskrit at the University of California. “Youngsters are losing interest in the field of Teaching, as it is quite difficult to get a job in the public sector and the private sector doesn’t pay as well. With the advent of Online

Teaching, things will change. It has become a lucrative career option,” feels Sagar Mehrotra, who has been working with Accenture as an Online Teacher and a subject-matter expert. His areas of expertise are mathematics and physics, and he makes good money – around Rs. 60,000 a month plus incentives. Unlike a traditional Teacher, Sagar spends over nine hours in office and many times attends late night calls. “Being an Online Teacher is a challenging job. Most of the projects are outsourced from the US. Due to the time difference, we have to take classes at night,” he informs. Moreover, an Online Teacher has to make the course module him or herself, and provide notes with audio and visual mediums, as foreign students are more familiar with these mediums. One also needs to learn various software and applications. Presently the Course is offered only at the Govt College.

A Research Chef

As Food companies are constantly trying to make their products healthier, and taste better, Research Chefs have become highly in demand. Also known as Food Scientists, Research Chefs don’t have to cook all the time. They study the flavour, texture, appearance and aroma of different types of Food products. Vaibhav Dubey, who works as a Research Chef with a five star hotel in Hyderabad, took up a Diploma course at IILM in 2011. “I used to love the subject of Food Technology in my school, but I was not interested in cooking.

Play Safe

oli, the most colourful and vibrant festival of India, brings with it lots of cheer and the promise of warmer days. However, if you are not careful, there can be problems during and after the ‘play’. If you suffer from asthma, you can use a preventive inhaler regularly for a few days prior to Holi. All these problems can be averted by use of organic colours. You can also make them at home by grinding the dry petals of flowers, and using natural ingredients like turmeric. Wet colours can be made by soaking the peels of pomegranate overnight, or by soaking mehndi leaves in water and then blending them. While Holi comes with a lot of festive cheer, it can cause some potential damage to the skin, hair, nails and eyes. Dr Sirisha Singh, the Founding Member and Medical Director of The Skin Center offers some easy-to-apply tips to enjoy the Holi cheer, while ensuring minimal damage to your skin, hair and nails.

Easy-to-apply tips

Before Playing: Apply plenty of moisturiser or olive oil all over the body, as this will help cleanse the colours afterwards. Oil your hair with coconut or olive oil. This will work as a shield between your hair and the colours, and protect the hair from getting damaged. Apply a thick coat of nail paint and also use the nail

S ocial

My career counsellor suggested that I try a Research Chef Course, as it is more about creating new Food items with the study and use of the latest technology and ingredients,” he says. Vaibhav’s team’s role is to keep the taste and flavour of pre-cooked packed Food items as authentic as possible. Moreover, he works on projects to develop new ingredients and new processes, so that packed Food products can last longer. Research Chefs bring art, taste, marketing and science to Food. Research Chefs also design Specialty Foods for kids and dieters. The job is extremely demanding. “As instant Food is becoming popular, we make sure that the right process is followed during the cooking and packaging. We even study the containers in which Food is served. Believe me, behind every tasty meal is hard work put in by several Research Chefs - so that people can enjoy a meal that is both healthy and delicious,” smiles Vaibhav.u

paint over the cuticles, as colours have a tendency to get into these crevices and are then very difficult to get rid of. Wear full sleeves and cover up as much as possible, to reduce the area of the body exposed to the colours. Apply a thick coat of sunscreen in all the exposed areas, as most people tend to play for a couple of hours. While Playing: Try and use herbal or organic colours as much as possible. If some colour gets into the eyes, wash it off with plenty of water. If you develop an itching sensation anytime, it is an indication that your skin is getting irritated. It is then time to stop, and to wash off the area with plenty of water. After Playing: Do not wash off with harsh soaps or cleansers. It is also advisable to avoid cleansers like petrol. Apply a generous amount of cleansing milk all over the body; then wait for 3-5 minutes and wash it off with lukewarm water. Use a gentle shampoo for the hair and follow it up with generous amounts of conditioner, to soothe the hair shaft and protect it from splits or getting brittle. After cleansing, apply a generous amount of moisturiser all over the body, to soothe and hydrate the skin. If you notice any rashes, you will need to see your dermatologist for some medicated creams. Take out the nail paint with a nail polish remover. u

S ocial

14-20 March 2014

Fighting Cancer – the second time round! { Anita Jaswal}

hether you are a survivor, a warrior or a caregiver, battling Cancer can take an emotional toll on everyone involved - the battle against this stubborn disease is like trench warfare. And what is it like when you have completed your Cancer treatment and are ready to move on with your life? You’ve gotten used to seeing your doctor less often and things are getting back to normal. You think you’ve just survived the biggest battle of your life. But then, the doctor tells you it’s not over – you haven’t won the battle yet. The Cancer has returned… Popularly known as Jolly, Alka Handu, mother of twins, was detected with Cancer at the age of 40. “I have to admit that, like so many women, I never thought I’d hear those devastating words: ‘You have Breast Cancer.’ I was horribly shocked, and the body felt numb. You wonder why it happened to you. It takes time to believe the diagnosis, especially if you have hardly been sick. The hard-

{ Shobha Lidder }

met her at The Church of the Savior, Washington DC, in 2000. We were members of a Multifaith group. Cosby Gordon was the Pastor. The Group met every Wednesday, to meditate in silence, led by a person from a different faith each time. The Group became a very strong support base and saw me through a major surgery during our diplomatic tenure with the Embassy of India. Fern often came over, for Indian curries, samosas and gulabjamuns, and grew quite fond of my mother, Janak, a staunch ‘sanatika’ of the gurukuls. Fern had visited India in her younger days. She was born in Topeka, Kanas. She invited us to join the Multifaith silent retreats held at Day Spring, the Church sanctuary. It had acres of forest reserves, ponds, deer, beavers, birds and tall grass. The Retreat Center was run by volunteers & self-service. A gigantic gong announced the day’s schedule. Use of electricity was at a minimum. Fern and a few others held a ‘satsang’ in the Church once a week. They listened to Swami Eknath Easwaran’s recorded discourses on the

Take Care Today

ow-a-days it is common to see teenagers indulging in smoking and drinking. However, the youth fail to realise the circumstances they will have to face once they grow up. I have never smoked a cigarette nor have drunk liquor. My best friend was once caught for smoking secretly in the school. His parents became very depressed and dejected when they were told about it. I tried my best to convince my friend that he was indulging in a bad habit, but

est part is informing your close family and friends.” So how did she cope? “I lost count of the number of times that well meaning friends and family said: “It’ll be all right.” It soon dawned that the answer was within me. Surviving Cancer is like driving at night in thick fog. You can only see as far as your headlights – just a step ahead. So it is just about focusing on getting to the next day. That’s the only ‘longterm’ goal you need to be concerned with - till you hit remission. And count to 33 million - that’s how many Cancer survivors there are worldwide. With a little luck, I will be Number 33 million and one! I’ve learned so much during my time with Cancer. It’s taught me a lot about who I am. It revealed to me my true goals and priorities. It introduced me to a brand new world, where time isn’t wasted and important things aren’t left unsaid. Today I want people who are diagnosed with Cancer to know that it does get bet-

To Fern Edward Gita. We visited the National Lutheran Retiring Home where her father, and her best friend Thelma, stayed in the ‘assisted living’ section. Thelma had been ‘family’ to Fern and helped her during a crisis. She died, 105 years of age, in 2003. Fern moved into the independent living apartments of the same complex. I stayed a weekend with her in 2004. No one had ever stayed with her. She lived alone. She read the Gita. She conducted satsang, as part of Seekers Church, at her Retiring Home. Every week she would take out a lesser-privileged person for grocery shopping. Her Group did not exchange gifts for Christmas. They fed the homeless. The only time they missed meeting up was if one was ill… or gone! They handled their ageing needs pragmatically (Fern was over 80). Most of these veterans volunteered with hospitals, schools, libraries or retiring homes. There is so much I learnt from these middle class Senior Citizens of America. Busy bees, all. Service was a part of their social duty. My son Arpan would sometimes he wouldn’t listen to me. Matters became worse until one day he passed away due to cancer. I’m 53-years-old now and I was just 13 when I lost him. What this incident taught me is that your teenage days are the most important and precious moments of your life. In these years, you’re bridging the gap between childhood and adulthood. Parents should be strict with their children. Schools should also take strict actions against such erring students. The effects of smoking on human health are serious and, in many cases, deadly. Approximate-

ter. Talking about your Cancer helps you deal with all of the new emotions you are feeling. Remember, it’s normal to get upset, scared, uncertain or angry. There’s nothing ‘fair’ about Cancer and no one deserves to have it...but that is life. As you face your own mortality and cope with the many demands of Cancer, you may start looking more closely at your religious beliefs, your personal and family values, and what’s really important in your life. Today Cancer’s the biggest disease - bigger than AIDS, heart disease and stroke,” says Alka. The initial horror and dread does give way to inquisitiveness, and even some positivity. Alka remembers reading Lance Armstrong, who said that Cancer was the ‘best thing’ that ever happened to him; she cites a woman who asserted that Breast Cancer had given her a new life…opened her eyes to the joy of living. “You may call it delusional optimism but I also feel that Breast Cancer is not a problem, not even an an-

help them with the Internet, or fix their computer problems. They often went back to school. Life-long learning & continuing education are popular with Senior Citizens in the USA. They often asked me what I would take back from America. “I will take back the die hard, self-reliant, proud spirit of the Senior Citizens of America!” I said. Retiring would be easier, having met them. I had gone to (Washington) DC as the grand daughter of the Royal Indian Army. My grandfather had won the OBI in the World Wars. I returned a grounded ‘fauji’, ready to take retirement pragmatically, stoically and optimistically. In 2010 Fern nearly died of acute axonal neuropathy. After months of hospitals & rehabilitation centers, she now moves around – although her shoulders are stiff with osteoarthritis. She continues to inspire me. I remember her saying on ‘Karmas’: “I don’t know about others, but do mend bridges with your Mother - so says the Gita.” She reinforced the tenets of the Gita to me! She had been untraceable for a few years. Then, last week, I just sent her an email. And i got a reply. “Isn’t email fantastic!” she said. In tribute to my living legend friend Fern… with love.u ly 4,000 chemicals are present in cigarettes, out of which hundreds are toxic. The ingredients in cigarettes affect everything - from the internal functioning of organs to the efficiency of the body’s immune system. Nicotine reaches the brain within 10 seconds after smoke is inhaled. Carbon monoxide binds to the haemoglobin in the red blood cells, preventing the affected cells from carrying a full load of oxygen. Therefore, get rid of cigarette and alcohol addiction today. Your life is most precious. Jubel D’Cruz, Mumbai

noyance. Cancer is your passport to the life you were truly meant to live. Cancer will lead you to God; it is your connection to the Divine,” says Alka. Like a perpetually flashing neon sign in the background, like an inescapable jingle, the injunction to be positive is ubiquitous. “During the months when I was undergoing chemotherapy, I encountered this assertion - survival hinges on ‘attitude’ over and over - on websites, in books, from oncology nurses and fellow sufferers. Years later it remains almost axiomatic, within the Breast Cancer ‘culture’. Women who have been treated for the disease attribute their continued survival to a ‘positive attitude’. And I take pride in this lifesaving mental state. I am a survivor and not a victim. Life isn’t perfect. When you get a knock, you have to get up, dust yourself down and get on with it. So, as I did the first time round, so will I again. I also want to be there for people going through this ordeal, to be able to lessen their fear and pain,” says Alka.u

Ode to a Woman On woman only depends This entire God’s creation Without a woman there cannot be Any country, any nation In the ancient ages a man would wander From jungle to jungle in search of food Wherever he would get tired He would sleep, be it in caves or a wood When woman entered his life He covered himself with fig leaves He learned to weave clothing And make safe home for both to live It was a woman who nudged him To work and make a living Woman only forced him Into hunting and trading For women only the men folk Waged many a battle Women only gave him a family And he learnt to raise his cattle Man fights for name, fame and honour To please the woman at home Woman only inspired him To expand his empire and kingdom That is why, says Lal ‘A man is nothing without a woman Never consider her to be weak’ For she is most influential after all. Ashok Lal Email: ablsl1971@ yahoo.co.in

K id C orner

14-20 March 2014 American Montessori Public School

Young Tale-Tellers

Story Telling Competition was held for the students of Class I, to help promote the use of effective communication skills in the English language. The children used props and costumes appropriate to their stories and delivered moralbased stories - with fluency in language, gestures and expressions, that left all spell-bound.

Dress me Fancy

Fancy Dress activity was held for the students of Montessori. It was wonderful seeing the tiny tots dressed as different characters – from Rani Laxmi Bai, a Kashmiri girl, a politician and doctor to a turtle and a peacock. The children spoke briefly on their characters.

Ryan Biz-Kids

he winners of Ryan International School, Sohna Road participated at the Grand Finale of the National Finance Olympiad and Felicitation Ceremony, held in Delhi. The students participated in two categories – Gold@15 for Class XI and Gold @ 13 for Classes VIII & IX. Swanika Dhingra (XI), Gandharv Dhruv Madan (XI), Parnika (IX) & Tanmay (VIII) qualified for the Regional round. The School received the Finance Gurukul Award for maximum participation. It was a great learning experience for the students, providing them adequate exposure in the areas of finance and industry. The Principal, Dr.Mouna Gupta, congratulated the students and encouraged them to participate in more such events. GURUGRAM Public School

Gurus, Shishyas & Pustaks

urugram Public School organised a trip to the World Book Fair at Pragati Maidan for the students of Classes VIII & IX. They were accompanied by thirteen teachers. The GPS team visited many book stalls and were excited to skim through the different books. While the students bought books of their choice, the teachers bought some books for the School Library.

Trip & Treat

yan Global School organised a visit to the Parle factory at Bahadurgarh, for the children of Grades 1 and 2. The children saw the entire process, of how snacks are manufactured with the help of big machines - from the kneading of the dough to the final product in the form of biscuits, toffees and other snacks. A packet of confectioneries was given to each child.

Budding Authors

ore than 50 students of Classes IV, V and X participated in a Report Writing Competition. The students had to write about their experiences at the World Book Fair. Sahil Bakshi of Class IV won the First Prize, and Kartik and Disha of Class V won the First and Second Prizes respectively, in their Categories. In Class X, Aashna Bhargava and Manya Sahni won the First Prize and Mohit the Second Prize. Padamshree R.S.Lugani, the Managing Trustee of the School, distributed the Awards.

14-20 March 2014

K id C orner

Birds on the Banyan

he Nursery and Grade I students of Banyan Tree World School enjoyed their weekly Show and Tell activity. The theme this week was ‘Their Favourite Bird’. The children had a great time talking and learning about different types of birds, their protection and their extinction. While some children used pictures and books as props, others got stuffed toy birds to showcase their subject.

Martial Art Gems

Weaving Ryan Stories

he students of Gems International School, Palam Vihar, participated in the 9th Sub-Junior Taekwondo Championship, and brought laurels to the School with their outstanding performances. The Winners were awarded certificates and medals by the Principal, Meenakshi Zarabi.

Sheetal Sharma

yan International School, Sector-40, conducted an interactive session on ‘How to weave a Story based on real life incidents’. Renowned author Ranjit Lal shared his experiences of dealing with animals and how he converted those real life incidents into his best-selling novels. He gave a few tips to the awed students on how to weave stories based on true events.

Class’, was in tears when he found that his crayons had been crushed. These ‘destructive’ acts disturbed me very much. Who was doing these and why? Finally I was able to find an answer to this mystery. One day, during the play period, I saw a lanky, tall girl - in fact the tallest girl in my Class standing and waiting for her turn at the swing. Suddenly she broke the line, pushed the child sitting on the swing and grabbed the seat. I was aghast! Most of the time I had found her to be a quiet girl - sort of confined to herself. Why was she indulging in this unpardonable act? I did not react at that time – partly due to my shock on seeing this girl behave the way she did. I later called her to the Counselling Room. She did not respond. A meeting with her mother, who had been a topper in university, revealed that she (the mother) had set very high expectations from her children. Her elder daughter was very good in her studies, but this child was being ticked off as a ‘non-performer’. This had hurt her and bruised her self-esteem, and she often felt helpless and angry. She felt jealous of her sister and of all those who performed well. Being very tall and lanky she also felt that she was the odd one out. Lonely, full of doubts, she had begun to hate herself. These feelings had clearly hampered her peer interactions. Over a few interactions I was able to show her that I truly understood her feelings, and expressed empathy with her emotions; it brought about a sea change in her. Her scores picked up and so did her social skills. One day I asked her if she now trusted anyone. She took my hand and put a tick mark on it. That day I realised that as teachers we need to constantly hone our empathising skills, so that our students can lean on us in their difficult times - rather than take recourse to anti-social behaviour. Sheetal Sharma is a well-known educationist and author of children’s books. Her latest series, ‘Hello Life’’ - a set of five books for children, is an interactive learning package.

Empathy & Care

teacher is more effective when she engages students with empathy. She finds a place in her students’ hearts and inspires them to give their best. But somehow teachers today are more attuned to nurturing the cognitive skills of their students. Probably parental and societal pressures enthuse teachers in this direction, as good academic scores brighten the spirits of parents as well as teachers. In this process of teaching-learning, when some students indulge in any misdemeanour or disruptive behaviour, the teachers prefer to ignore this and bring the students’ attention back to the learning content. The teachers are ignoring silent cries for help. Some students live under the shadow of self-doubt and cannot seem to trust anyone. Nagging thoughts of shame, fear and low esteem are working overtime in their minds. Under the pressure of these negative emotions, they are irresistibly drawn to unacceptable behaviour. Their cries should touch the teachers’ souls, leading them to empathise with such students and gently guide them in discovering their strengths. I fortunately learnt about this quite early in my career. At that time I was a Class Teacher of Grade Two. I enjoyed a good rapport with my students and did not come across any major discipline issue - till one fateful morning. It was dictation time. The children were ready with their exercise books. Before I could announce the first word (for dictation), a screaming sound shattered the peace. The children knew that screaming, shouting and raising one’s voice was not allowed. And yet it happened. Why? The girl who screamed was the one who usually got full marks in the spelling tests. Her exercise book therefore carried many ‘Excellent’ gradings. She had discovered to her horror that someone had struck these off with a black pen. On another day, another child, who was known as the ‘Artist of the

K id C orner

14-20 March 2014

Radiant Play

Honoured with Grace

n the occasion of Women’s Day, children from Radiant Kids School, a school for the underprivileged, presented a Street Play at the DT City Centre, MG Road. They also entertained visitors with a Dance performance. The performances were designed to make people aware about some important issues impacting women - like dowry and rape. The children were given refreshments by the Mall management.

t was a moment of pride for the Ryan International Group of Institutions as its Managing Director, Madam Grace Pinto, was felicitated on the occasion of the International Women’s Day at New Delhi, for her inspiring contribution in the field of Education. Madam Grace Pinto was honoured for her exuberant fervour to accomplish the goal of providing Excellence in Education and Education for All, with her fine qualities of benevolence, humility, commitment to her conviction and sincerity in her mission. She was also appreciated for her tireless work for the cause of the girl child, and the underprivileged community especially during national calamities and disasters. The Award ceremony was held to appreciate the contribution of emerging Women leaders of India. This honour motivates the Ryan Group to further invest in the field of Scientific Education and Research and contribute even more to the citizens of the world.

Klay Play with Fire!

field trip by a class of students of Klay Preschool, to the Fire Station, was both educational and fun. The preschoolers learnt about safety measures and also met fire workers.

Artistic Strokes

Shukham Tyagi, MRIS

Akshika Sharma, Swiss Cottage School

Calling all Educationists, Administrators, Co-ordinators, Teachers and Principals – here’s a chance to pen down your experiences, teachings and learnings.

Send us your contributions (400-500 words) For Information, call us at 0124-4219092/93 or Alia Mahajan, Pathways School, Aravali

Subhakruthi Kasturi, Swiss Cottage School

email at fridaygurgaongallery@gmail.com

S piritual

14-20 March 2014

Transforming Man’s Nature

{ Dr. Rajesh Bhola }

Stop finding fault { Shobha Lidder }

t wasn’t as though I had many friends at school in Chandigarh. It was a lonely affair for a thirteenyear-old. I was in need of a friend but it was not easy to find one among a horde of rowdy, pea-shooting classmates, who carved their names on desks and stuck chewing gum on the class teacher’s chair. The moment there was no teacher in the classroom it used to be a free for all – with some shouting at each other and many others beating their desks. It was schoolboy anarchy at its ‘best’. But, now when the memories of schooldays flood back, I realise that if our inborn nature of raw desires goes unchecked, there will be little pattern or order in our lives. For attaining such behaviour and for the restoration of some order, there has been the civilizing influence of teachers – who also provided guidance on propriety and righteousness. Someone may well ask, “If a person’s nature is ‘evil’, wherefrom would such ‘manners’ come?” The answer is that these are not produced from man’s nature. When a potter pounds the clay and makes a vessel, it is the product of the artisan’s activity, not of his nature. The sages observed activities and gathered ideas and thoughts, and thereafter introduced principles of propriety and righteousness and instituted laws and systems. Therefore these are the products of the activity of the sages and not the original products of every man’s nature. The eye, ear, nose, mouth, heart and body are products of man’s original nature and feelings. They react to natural stimuli, which does not require any activity. The sages transformed man’s nature and aroused him to activity. It is difficult to comprehend the extent of the gap between our present selves and our original nature, and how this gap can be closed. Due to this great chasm we are eternally continuing with our incomplete

and unhappy lives. Man’s original nature enjoys each breath, delights in the subtlest pleasures of life and regales living close to the lap of Nature. Human nature, at its core, is like Nature around us; it is one of its more complex formations. The apostles and soldiers of the ideal, in whom service for truth and justice has become the law of life, need not despair of human nature, nor pray for a miracle to purge man of his baser elements. The sages’ lives are proof that human nature can change itself for the better; that the human species can teach itself to live by truth alone and to act for the good of all men. This spiritual side to human nature sees human life in terms of the bigger picture – of how to inject new meaning into a person’s little story, so that it begins to serve the great story of peace and compassion in the world. The original nature of humans is constantly developing, growing and moving toward a balanced and mature way of ‘being’. Our present personality is determined by both who and what we have been and by the persons we strive to become. The goal of personal development is to learn and apply that which enables us to attain emotional wellbeing, understanding and effectiveness, and to share this knowledge with others. Personal development is the conscious evolution of human nature. Although it is in our nature to learn and grow, we are held back by our ‘culture’, which is predominantly focused on

survival needs. Each of us is in competition with others, and our spiritual inner nature is repressed. The animal in us rules. We make no room for unconditional love. Even though the culture may have ‘evolved’, with technological advancements and administrative complexity, human nature has not moved forward as it might. We are now paying the price for human selfishness and inconsideration. Going forward, the quality of our lives on this Planet - even our survival - now depends on each of us taking responsibility for our own personal growth. The human being needs to awaken to the soul that inhabits each body, and which is our true self and source of inner knowing. Let us awaken through a process of self- discovery, leading to our own, self-directed spirituality. We need to become mindfully conscious, instead of being ruled by the dictates of basic instincts, past habits and fixed beliefs. We need to throw away dogma, open our minds and ‘reconsider’. Instead of fearing about our survival and developing a competitive angst, we will then be motivated by compassionate understanding and creative love. u Dr. Rajesh Bhola is President of Spastic Society of Gurgaon and is working for the cause of children with autism, cerebral palsy, mental retardation and multiple disabilities for more than 25 years. He can be contacted at rabhola@yahoo.com

IF YOU ARE NOT GETTING FG COPIES REGULARLY SMS NR to 08447355801

We often toxify our souls For no fault of ours But by debating for hours And ruminating and contemplating On faults of others Their malaise & vices or their evil devices For days and weeks We think and speak of what has gone wrong The Satanic regimes The newspapers have them as headlines Of murders and crimes Of wars & discords If we look for solutions There would be more resolutions If we talk of peace, think of peace, project peace Broadcast success stories of treaties Rehabilitations Negotiations and reconciliations Of win-win situations There would be more Peace Day celebrations Media must propagate Arbitration Theatre – Cinema should act out softer options Street slogans voice the ‘inqalaab’ Of moderation & tolerance A shift in the emotional intelligence Would herald in a transformation In governance and opposition When the State & the Church Act as one Then everyone can win some And learn to give some Be one ‘kutumbkam’ Where religion, culture, heritage and customs Become a personal choice Of preferences Where diversity adds to variety And everyone defines their own identity So happens in the kingdom of Nature Where the lion, the bird, the snake and the worm Are disinterested in each other’s opinion Live in diversity of union There are no ‘chor shipahis’ Then why do we amplify Gossiping, slandering or criticising Let emotional intelligence be used to provoke Art & creativity, not war & apathy Media is an influential entity Let it wield its healing ability And its endless possibilities Writer Journalist, Social Activist, Teacher Trainer Reiki Master, Pranic Healer

14-20 March 2014

Justice, My Lords

EDITORIAL Atul Sobti

Letter To The Editor Dear Editor, Last week’s issue was a very engrossing reading. Your editorial gave the most practical solution to deal with insipid political debates, which are neither here or there - that is, to switch the channel. I agree that most of the party spokespersons are very unsuccessfully trying to defend the indefensible. The worst is when a very heated and charged debate on an event gets evaporated in thin air for all times, and is also found to be worth of only a remote column in the inner pages of the newspapers the next day. What a waste of mental energy, that too at ‘prime time’, which can otherwise be the best family time with wife and children. The article on ‘ The Way to Parenting’ was very good to read. The Grandparents must be especially happy to read it as they have done it all - well almost - except the video games part! As usual, the poem ‘Give your thoughts a spa’ was superb. Keep giving such a beautiful assortment of articles; the GK quotient of the readers will also improve. Ashok Lal Friday Gurgaon, from its inception to now, has created a wonderful niche for itself, with a result that every well doing Gurgaonite wishes to read your weekly paper. While it covers civic issues, it also very well covers the cultural/art subjects too, thus providing a very wide spectrum. Regards, Gurdeep Singh

C omment

The Editorial of Volume 2, Issue 33 (April 5 to 11, 2013) – see below - is most relevant to the theme of this Issue.

the Centre has ensured - provided an he premier Estates – the excuse? - that the writ of the Centre Parliament, Executive, Fast-track Courts have runs pretty low at State level. The word Legislatures - are taken to task disappointed to date. By just of the Executive, even the PM, is no fairly regularly. Not that they need to resurrecting them, and that longer law. The Supreme Court also be spared. The Police are the regular too in the thousands, as a needs to move beyond Delhi, in terms of fall-guys, as they seldom get much show of ‘action’, we will only activism. Mumbai slums are crying out right. The Judiciary has escaped deeper disappoint many citizens (esp. for intervention. Maybe even Gurgaon scrutiny. Surprising, since it has the women) even more. Fast-track real estate scams should be given suo capacity to not only decide, but even Courts cannot be measured on moto cognizance – for their sheer scale, dictate. By its very actions it can also a relative basis against current and for the profile of people allegedly deter. The Judiciary, constitutionally norms – which are completely involved. the most independent of our bodies, unacceptable. They must work has disappointed; also because we Why cannot the Chief Justices of expect more from it than many of on separate absolute guidelines, every High Court, and the Supreme our other institutions – which stand because fast-track should Court, ensure that for a 1 year time compromised today. It is expected clearly mean that adjournments frame, they effectively manage by that though many policemen may be – for whatever reason – are just exception. Let them basically review all influenced by politicians, hopefully not acceptable. cases where: most judges are not – at least at the High - Orders have been passed, but not Court and above (yes, we have allowed executed, for say 6 months; many politicians to become a law unto - Excessive adjournments (‘taareek pe taareek’ - in themselves; and in some areas it is virtually the law terms of time period and/or number of adjournments) of the jungle that rules). In this scenario, we do not have taken place; do justice to our courts and lawyers and judges by not - Hearings have concluded, but a verdict has not been criticizing them enough. delivered, for say 3 months. And then ensure timely action directly under their It’s easy for the legal system to blame the police for authority, for every such case. ‘shoddy’ work, which results in many guilty people Any Contempt of Court should not only lead to going scot free, or getting lenient punishments. It is as heavy strictures and penalties on lawyers and persons/ much the role of the judiciary to ensure justice to the establishments concerned, but also influence the aggrieved – to lay down the law strictly, for all. Judges outcome and timing of a case. Chief Justices should can after all be always ‘active’, in the interest of justice also think of setting an example for, and providing the - if they wish - by asking searching questions of the courage to, Chief Secretaries and the Cabinet Secretary. guilty. The bottom line is: criminals and wrong-doers They must ensure that arbitrary transfers of judges are need to see that crime does not pay. There must be just not allowed. After all, they are the main protectors certainty of conviction within a prescribed time. of the Constitution. This should embolden some Chief Justice delayed is truly justice denied. The backlog, Secretaries to do likewise, against the arbitrary transfers the pendency, needs to be taken care of…now…and in the bureaucracy. In fact the Courts should go a step innovatively. further, and suo moto take up some special cases of bureaucrats who have been victimized. The justices Why should the Supreme of Courts singly have to surely know that even more important than delivering play the role of activist – almost step into the shoes of punishment to the guilty, they need to ensure that the the Executive (eg for CNG fuel, Forest conservation, innocent are well-protected and supported. Will a freshstoppage of child labour, relocation of hazardous thinking Chief Justice care to awake this country to a industry...)? Why do we not see High Courts in various new dawn of justice? Will we need to wait for a woman, states do the same, especially when governance across the country is at an all-time low? Coalition rule at for that? Or is the jury out on that too? u

Dear Reader FG has completed about 2 ½ years (134 issues) – and we have not missed a deadline, let alone an Issue. We have tried to keep it interesting, relevant and, most importantly, credible. It’s difficult running a newspaper as a business, especially if you wish to keep it straight. It’s time now to try and make FG a sustainable Weekly Newspaper model. We are fortunately running a very lean ship. To us, ownership is not important, and we would welcome concerned citizens of this City to come on board as ‘owners cum advisors’. We are also open to offering a stake to every citizen of this City – with a preference for our subscriber base (and there are more than a few from Week 1). Do let us have your views, or drop in to the office (preferably not on a Thursday, though!).

W ellness

14-20 March 2014

Health & Vitality... Naturally!

Prune Up Your Day { Alka Gurha }

'Holi Bhang' { Jaspal Bajwa }

ith the onset of Spring, everyone looks forward to the magical festival of colours – ‘Holi’ – celebrated in large parts of India. It is a fun carnival, with everyone coming together to express joy and celebrate life - intertwined with the mythical stories of victory of good over evil. Regardless of age and social status, people come out on the streets to play with powder colours, or get drenched in coloured water squirted by naughty revellers. A unique spirit of bonhomie takes over as people sing and dance, offering specialty foods and drinks to each other. A traditional drink savoured at this time is ‘bhang lassi’, which is made by mixing Cannabis paste with milk, in combination with ghee (clarified butter) and spices. Cannabis buds and leaves are also added to savoury snacks like ‘pakoras’ (fried balls of gram flour with fillings). ‘Bhang golis’ are chewy little balls of bhang mixed with ghee and sugar. Whichever way it is consumed, ‘bhang’ adds to the heightened fun and laughter that marks this Spring festival. Cannabis (or Marijuana) has been known for centuries and has been used for recreational and medicinal purposes. Native to the mountainous regions west of the Himalayas, where it is often seen growing freely along the roadsides, Cannabis is now widely cultivated in many parts of the world. Traditional healers have used Marijuana buds, leaves and resin for wideranging benefits - as an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anesthetic, anti-convulsant, anti-emetic (stops vomiting), anti-spasmodic, aphrodisiac, hypotensive, appetite stimulant, sedative, bronchial and vaso-dilator, euphoric and a hallucinogen. Marijuana seeds were also used as a laxative and a demulcent (to relieve irritation). Marijuana has always found favour with a large number of artists, philosophers and spiritual practitioners. It can loosen inhibitions and relax the brain. There is increasing scientific validation that Marijuana can indeed act as a cognitive catalyst that can trigger heightened freeassociative creativity, increased pattern recognition, and insight, helping us increase the novel ways in which we find connections. Creativity is essentially about ‘early pattern recognition’ and ‘seeing new perspectives’. On the contra side are the ill-effects that Marijuana can have on the brain development of younger folks, especially if it becomes an addictive habit early in life. Cannabis entered the western world in the 19th century, and ever since has had a chequered history. Between 1840 and 1900, over a hundred published medical papers recommended Marijuana leaf for various uses - such as pain and nausea relief, and as a sleep aid. Although very often it is smoked as weed or pot, Marijuana can also be consumed as a food, made into a tisane (tea) or an alcohol-based tincture, or used as a sub-lingual spray. It also has topical uses. However, in the early part of the 20th century, Marijuana got banned in most

countries. As expected, it promptly went ‘underground’ and continued to flourish. In recent years, thankfully a fresh perspective is being taken. With more results coming in from trials, ‘medical’ Marijuana is now being prescribed for chronic pain from serious life-debilitating diseases, muscle spasms caused by multiple sclerosis, nausea from cancer chemotherapy, poor appetite and weight loss caused by chronic illness, seizure disorders and Crohn's disease. Many states in the US and Canada, as well as an increasing number of EU countries, have either already enacted laws to permit the use of ‘medical’ Marijuana, or are actively considering doing so. Patients can now get a ‘Marijuana Card’ under certification from a doctor, to permit them to to buy it from an authorised seller - a dispensary.

Tip of the Week

A healthy way to take ‘medical’ Marijuana involves vaporisation, or as an alcohol-based tincture. Sub-lingual administration of the whole Cannabis plant extract, with fixed concentrations of Cannabinoid components, has the added advantage of the addictive potential being considerably lower than that of other prescribed drugs (or substances of abuse). Although Cannabis leaves can be boiled in hot water as a tisane (infusion), the psychoactive properties do not fully emerge till the active ingredient is dissolved in either fatty liquids (like butter) or alcohol. The smoked version of Marijuana is also psychoactive and seems to be preferred for recreational use. But like tobacco, smoking (Marijuana) can have harmful effects associated with long-term addictive use, especially if the dosage is not calibrated. Because of possible side-effects, it is recommended to avoid driving or to undertake any activity that requires fast reaction times, after taking Marijuana. Nature’s Wonder Food of the Week: Marijuana or Bhang or Cannabis Sativa The active ingredients in the buds, resin and leaves of Cannabis are Cannabinoids. In addition, they contain several essential oils, alkaloids and calcium. The Marijuana seed, on the other hand, contains protein, lipids, inositol, choline and enzymes. Patients take Cannabis primarily for its ability to reduce chronic pain and anxiety. Pain Management improves a patient’s quality of life - especially in serious diseases like Cancer, Multiple Sclerosis or AIDS. Cannabinoids can contribute to pain modulation through an anti-inflammatory mechanism. They have a stimulatory effect on appetite and increase the food intake, in addition to also offering amelioration to patients suffering from Rheumatoid Arthritis and Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Cannabinoids may have a protective effect against the development of certain types of tumours. u Registered Holistic Nutritionist (Canadian School of Natural Nutrition). For education purposes only; always consult a healthcare practitioner for medical conditions

hese days I see many packets of Prunes being sold as energy-packed ‘super snacks’. What exactly are Prunes…and what is so special about California Prunes? What is the difference between Prunes and Plums? Well, a Prune is the dried version of Prunus domestica or European Plum (a fresh fruit). Having a sticky chewy texture, Prunes are not only fun to eat, but are also highly nutritious. As with other dried fruits, Prunes are available round the year. History The process of drying Plums to make Prunes is thought to have originated thousands of years ago in an area near the Caspian Sea - where the European Plums originated. The process of drying the Plums (to produce Prunes) was common in California, which has now become the leading producer of Prunes worldwide. Health Benefits Prunes are a good source of phenols. These phenols act as great antioxidants and help in preventing oxygen damage to the cells. Prunes are also a very good source of Vitamin B6, potassium, copper, Vitamin C, manganese, phosphorus, niacin, dietary fibre and Pantothenic Acid. The sweetness of Prunes is a deterrent for those wanting to lose weight, but the soluble fibre within slows down the absorption of glucose - thereby stabilizing blood-sugar levels. It also provides food for the ‘good’ bacteria in the large intestine. Further, the soluble fibres help in lowering cholesterol levels, by binding with the bile acids and removing them from the body via stools, and also helping reduce the amount of cholesterol manufactured by the liver. Prunes are well known for their ability to prevent constipation. They help in providing ‘bulk’ and decreasing the transit time of fecal matter, thus decreasing the risk of anal fissures and hemorrhoids. Prunes are one of the best foods for imbibing potassium. Above all, Prunes are (naturally) salt-free, so snack on them (rather than on ‘fast snacks’, which are salty).

Selection and Storage Ideally, Prunes should be plump, shiny, relatively soft and free of mold. If the packing is opaque, check that it is tightly sealed – to ensure that the Prunes have not have lost any moisture. As with any other dried fruit, try to purchase Prunes that are not processed with food preservatives. Prunes should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry and dark place, where they will keep for several months. Storing them in the refrigerator will extend their freshness - you can keep them refrigerated for about six months. If the Prunes are extremely dry, soaking them in hot water for a few minutes will help to refresh them. u

14-20 March 2014

By Col Tej S Dalal (Retd.)

PART 1

t was my long and cherished dream to build a house as per my own design, specifications, layout and furnishing. Therefore, after my retirement, I started with the purchase of a plot. It took almost two years to complete the structure, due to problems like the monsoon, shortage of labour during the Commonwealth Games and the festival seasons - and of course financial constraints. The last one had to be overcome partially through an extensive market survey, which was a learning by itself. Another six months were then taken for furnishing. At times I almost gave up; but with the persistence and encouragement from my wife, we were able to enjoy our Di-

The Land wali of 2012 in the comforts of our own Home. The feeling of moving into a permanent residence, after innumerable postings and moves during Service, was unique and exhilarating. Having spent so much time and effort, I decided to share my experience with friends who may find it useful. Here goes. A ’Home Sweet Home’ is the desire of millions. It is the ultimate dream of most Indians, irrespective of their class or economic background. We feel most homely in houses owned by us. And therefore the house construction industry is one of the biggest investment areas in India; the life’s savings of most citizens go there. The shift of

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Brick by Brick : Land to Home the masses from rural to urban areas has added to this gigantic investment. However, most of us have very little knowledge of the intricacies involved in making/owning a house. Often we accept what is offered by the builder – not really out of trust but mainly due to our ignorance. Constructing my house was both a learning and a pleasure. I would like to share my experience and the knowledge gained, to help the many others who are planning to build their own houses or acquiring them. Most of the issues covered here are based on personal experience and extensive market surveys. The suggestions are not only time-saving and cost-effective, but also hopefully unique.

Acquiring Land or an Apartment:

If you are planning to build your dream Home on a plot of land, then the main consideration should be what facilities you expect in your neighbourhood - like a market, hospital or a school – and the availability of public transport. The city’s or

Plan. Ask for a copy of these documents from the builder. Next comes the area and the cost. The area of a flat or floor is calculated in various forms – carpet area is what is enclosed within the walls or what you get to own and use; built-up area includes the walls as well (another way of calculating builtup area is to include the area of the balconies and terraces - both open and covered); the super area includes all common areas of the complex also - such as pathways, parks, underground water tanks, overhead water tanks and lift areas. This area is almost impossible for you to calculate and it is here that the builder makes his bucks. A five percent variation in a 1,000 sq ft flat, calculated @ Rs 5000 psf can make a difference of Rs 2.5 lakhs. Some builders are reluctant to even mention the carpet area in any of their documents, but this must be mentioned in the possession letter - as it will be required when you go in for its conversion to freehold, or for payment of taxes. The Govern-

The Basement in progress the developer’s plan of the area will indicate the green areas and future population density. If the available land is too far away from civic facilities, then settling down there would be like residing in another township. ‘Unauthorised’ colonies will always remain congested and devoid of basic amenities, while the land rate in private colonies will be high. Therefore, the best bet is to go in for areas that fall in the government plan, have a clear title deed and are ready for living as per your time preference. If you choose to go in for a multistoried apartment, then ensure that the builder is reputed, is the legitimate owner of the land, has all the necessary sanctions to build and has the approved

ment has now rightly decided, in the new regulations, that the builder must clearly specify his rates based on the carpet area.

Set Your Specifications: Read all the specifications offered by the builder very carefully. If a sample flat is ready, take its photographs. You will be surprised by what you are shown and what you get after 2 to 3 years. Be careful to check the following: Is there a garage included in the cost of the flat? What is going to be the make/ quality of electricals/bathroom fitments? Is the club membership compulsory; who is to decide about it and at what stage? What are the terms and conditions concerning any cost

escalation(s)? Are the builder(s), promoter(s) and members of the Managing Committee the same people? Is the land on a lease or freehold basis? Would you be able to convert it to freehold, on possession? If the flat is ready, what are the maintenance charges? What are the ‘other’ charges – other than the Basic rate psf. For example, ‘special’ location charges, external or internal development charges, government taxes/levies etc. Now make a rough sketch of the house, with tentative sizes, for the architect to work on - to fit your needs into his drawings. You may need a few sessions with him, because at this stage you have not taken the width of the walls or partitions into consideration.

Draw up an Agreement:

This is the document by which you inform the contractor about your architectural plan and elevations, various drawings, specifications of materials to be used, time schedule of various phases and the liquidated dam-

tails of the following: (a) the size of wardrobes in each room, based on who will need how much space. The lady of the house may require more wardrobe space than others. A coat on a hanger requires approx. 42 inches height, while a saree may require 34 inches. Similarly, the children may require less space, but they will grow up – while the wardrobe will not. (b) the size of the windows, which should permit the maximum natural light and fresh air. If you are looking for corner glass windows, ask at the start a column/pillar may not permit it later. (c) the size of the Kitchen, as this is the place where the lady may spend a lot of time. (d) the side that doors would open. Avoid them opening on the outside, as that can be a security hazard. (e) the view of the entrance gate – preferably from the kitchen or lounge. It is also better to raise the walls within your own area

The finished House ages in case of delays/failure – these normally do not exceed 2% of the contractual amount. The payment schedule to the contractor has to be specified, as also the amount of Retention Money – which is generally held back till about 12 months after completion. Responsibility for disposal of the (waste) construction material and any restriction on working hours will also be specified in this Agreement.

Making a Building Plan:

It is most important that the house be planned as per your requirement. Involve your family and do take time to work it out. Vaastu can be used as a guide, but is not a must - or the only consideration. Get into the de-

rather than share any with the neighbour(s). This way your walls will not get scraped when the neighbour starts to build. Most architects will give you readymade plans. They will tell you that these are already approved by the concerned agency and will Involve minimum time and effort – although their fee will remain the same. Location and size of each room, in relation to the others, and its accessibility, is important. Plan to use clear glass inside the house, wherever possible. This saves on AC power consumption and also gives a feeling of space. Do you need a pathway outside, for the visitors/servants, to go from the front to the rear portion of the house, or you are comfortable

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with the use of your inside (the house) corridor? Do you want a basement? It costs a lot to have a secure and waterproofed basement and the usage is normally limited – to storing all your notso-wanted things. The house, if size permits, must have a large shaft/atrium, to let in natural light; and also a family lounge. The use of parapets/balconies will ensure that the rainwater does not fall directly on the walls. It will also protect the walls from any harsh direct sunlight. Ensure that no space in the house is wasted. it is better to plan all this in the beginning, than try to find ways to fit in furniture/wardrobes in ‘spare’ space later.

The Electric and Plumbing Plan

{ Shilpy Arora / FG }

must ensure that all electrical conduits in the basement, roof and walls are installed well in time. If you have to cut the RCC/ beams/columns later, for laying wiring or pipes, it will make them weak – it should be avoided. For water, these days PVC pipes are being used. They are non-corrosive and better in the long run, but joining them requires a special machine; if not done properly and at the correct temperature, there can be problems. Joints of all pipes must be checked carefully, for likely leakages. Cover all open ends of the pipes with polythene, so that construction waste does not enter and clog them.

Start of Construction:

Plan the construction to start

much before the monsoon, especially if you are going in for a basement. The beginning of the summer season is the best period to start, as you get longer working hours and the minimum of work stoppages (no rains and few holidays). The cost of bricks rises during the monsoon, and labour cost increases during the autumn festival season.

Excavation for Basement:

Use of modern implements like JCV and Dumper are ideal for the digging and disposal of the soil. The foundation of a building is like the root of a tree. It must be capable of taking the load of the columns, beams, walls and the roof. Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) is used to first make the base and then the column

footings (bases of the columns). In simple terms, each column coming out of the foundation must have its own base, so that the overall weight is distributed. Each column is generally 3ft by 5ft. in size. The columns are then joined together by horizontal beams, so that they together form a single unit and help in the proper sharing of the load - as well as in keeping the building intact during an earth-quake. Anti-termite treatment is a must and should be undertaken by specialists, and must cover the entire area. Keep in mind that the area of influence of the medicine keeps reducing over the years, and this forms gaps for the termites to ingress. Therefore, anti-termite treatment is an on-going process and must be

done regularly; it is definitely not a one-time treatment. The waterproofing of the Basement is another very important aspect and must preferably be done on the outer sides of the walls. All underground water tanks must be made waterproof. One of the most common points of water seepage is the manholes. If the water/sewage pipes are not sealed properly, water can seep in from their outer walls, through minute holes, and find its way into the inner walls. Another area of water seepage is the electric conduits. The electrician generally starts his work after the waterproofing is done, and cuts the bricks/’jhirri’ for the conduits. These must be sealed properly and waterproofed, where required.u

Banding for the Battle

write to us at letters@fridaygurgaon

hey are on a mission to enthrall people with their music - and also helping spread some good social messages. Two College Bands of the City – Centrifugal, from ITM University and Southies, from Amity University, Manesar are participating in Battle Of The Year (BOTY), an Inter-College Music Band Competition organised by the Kingdom of Dreams. While Centrifugal is associated with an NGO and encourages people to donate blood, Southies spreads a message of world peace. Both the Bands started from scratch in their college music circles. Gradually they stretched their wings beyond college competitions and today they are competing in a national battle. Apart from churning out new content, young music bands are becoming better in their presentation, and offer music that touches the heart of today’s youngsters. “The aim is to provide a platform to young music bands, to help them build their professional careers in music. This is an event for the college students that goes beyond their college campuses, to much larger audiences; such a platform gives them their due recognition,” says Saurabh Kaushik, Head - Marketing & Alliances at the Kingdom of Dreams. Music has always been a passion for Nishant, a student of ITM University. He was lucky to find a few music players at the College Fest and thus decided to form a music band. The Band (Centrifugal) chose soulful Sufi Music as its genre. “We are a young group trying to create a new and modern version of Sufi Music – by blending it with Bollywood Music. When you play something like Sufi, your audience is not limited to college students; people of all age groups admire this music. Both my parents and grandparents enjoy it,” smiles Nishant. Despite having no formal training in music, the Band members have been performing well. The Group believes that college music bands help break the monotony on the campus. Centrifugal has performed at Major Dhyan Chand Stadium and at many colleges of Delhi University. Sufi music helps the Band to unleash their energy on stage and pass it on to the audience. Talking about Gurgaon, Nishant says, “It is an amazing City, where the craze for music is

Southies

About BOTY: n 30,000 votes cast on the website www.boty.in n More than 200,000 Views. n Bands are offering Metal, Rock, Pop, Blues, Classical, Fusion, Sufi.

Centrifugal

growing in the ‘old’ part and many people already appreciate such music in ‘new’ Gurgaon. And now the Kingdom of Dreams has come up with such an innovative show. It will surely give a boost to Sufi music in the City.” Blessing, a guitarist from Southies, feels that music bands in cities like Bangalore are doing better than in Gurgaon. Born and brought up in the City, Blessing says, “There is still a long way to go for music bands to receive the kind of response they get in Bangalore and Hyderabad.” Interestingly, the USP of the Band (Southies) is that each member likes a different genre. While Samadh, Manager, Southies likes Pop and Rock, Nikhil (Vocalist & Rhythm Guitarist) is a fan of Heavy Metal, and Blessing loves soothing, melodious music. The Band was formed in the college music room. “One jam session together was enough to confirm that we gel and share the same love for music,” says Samadh. The members come from different academics backgrounds - such as Economics Hons., Engineering and Business Administration. The Band is appreciated for its composition, “I see I”, which gives a message on self-realisation. Talking about the competition, Samadh smiles and says, “The purpose is not just to win a competition, but to win the hearts of the people.” Although the Bands have gone through many hardships to make it to this level, they feel that music has never been a handicap. “We take part in many competitions throughout the year and pay equal attention to our studies. We wish to make music popular in the City. It started as a hobby, but we want to take it up as a profession now,” says Nikhil. Both the Bands have set their goals high. Battle Of The Year (BOTY) has undoubtedly set a worthy stage for all the campus bands. Bands from across the country are participating in the Competition. 24 Bands have been selected for the Semi-Finals, via an online voting system. The Top 12 Bands will be competing in the Finals, on March 16, in two separate categories – English and Hindi. The winning Band will be featured on MTV and Gaana.com - the Official TV Partner for the Event and the Official Online Music Channel, respectively. The Winner will also get a Cash Prize of Rs 1 lakh, along with a chance to perform six live entertainment events at the Kingdom of Dreams and they will earn Rs 25,000 for every performance. Besides, the Winner will be entitled to vouchers worth Rs 3.5 lakhs. u

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Dance And Religion - The Christian Prism

{ Meenu Thakur Sankalp }

Let them Praise his name with Dancing Let them sing Praises to him with timbrel and lyre Psalm 149:3

hristian religion and Dance have had an enduring and fructive relationship, meandering through two millennia of socio-cultural debate. In fact, in this multi-religion world, there are striking similarities in religious traditions - despite their inert divergence. All religions have documented evidence of Dance. In Christianity, while there are no specific tenets of Dance in the Old Testament, there are notable references of Hebrew culture - where Dance was performed regularly to rejoice, during weddings and religious feasts (like The Feast of Tabernacles) and also to celebrate the existence of God. Then shall the virgin rejoice in the dance, both young men and old together: for I will turn their mourning into joy, and will comfort them, and make them rejoice from their sorrow’ (Jeremiah 31:13 ) And Miriam the prophetess, the sister of Aaron, took a timbrel in her hand; and all the women went out after her with timbrels and with dances’ (Exodus 15:20 ) And in the New Testament: ‘We played the pipe for you, and you did not dance; we sang a dirge, and you did not mourn’ (Mathew 11:17) Broadly speaking, there was a social impact associated with Dance. When Christianity

spread itself among the European communities by the end of the fourth century, it was believed that evil and sin had to be abhorred. Dance, despite references in the Old Testament, was viewed as a means to entertain and as an attempt to induce sin. Breaking from the Pagan shackles of the declining Roman Empire - where Dance was associated with enjoyment, vice, immorality, sex and drinking - Augustine, the Bishop of Hippo, struggling to enforce Emperor Constantine’s Edict of Milan to convert Rome to Christianity, had to ensure the sanctity of religion under the Holy Cross. During the middle ages, the Christian clergy kept the church under strict control, discouraging mingling with sinful commoners. The clergy danced among themselves during festivals like All Saints Day, Easter and Christmas; the commoner’s expression of joy through Dance was not accorded religious sanction. Even during the Renaissance period, when music, painting, art, sculpture, literature

{ Krishan Kalra }

irca 1947: 40-year-old Chaudhary Paras Ram, with his wife and 4 children, was living in the refugee camp at New Delhi’s Birla Mandir. The family, used to the high life and luxury in Pakistan, had a small corner to themselves. Filthy toilets, a free community kitchen, daily fights over everything - it was a tough existence. Back in Pakistan this man had been a prosperous trader, mill owner and honorary magistrate. It was as high as a native could get. Living in great comfort, hobnobbing with the ‘gora sahebs’, the children studying in convent schools, holidays in the hills – it was a blissful life. Soon, Chaudhary decided that he had to do something. “I must find a place for the family”, he thought. Every morning he would do the rounds of nearby government colonies. Finally he was able to strike a deal. One of the babus agreed to let out his servant quarter for Rs. 25 per month. Chaudhary’s family would be allowed to cook their own food in a little open space at the back. Chaudhary happily gave the babu one month’s rent in advance and promised to move in

There is a notable movement within the Church, especially in North America, called Worship Dancing, which aims at surrender, love and an expression of devotion to God. and drama were encouraged through a spirit of free-thinking and questioning, Dance remained confined - out of the realm of artistic culture. Even as the Reformation within the Catholic Church brought about a sea-change in medieval thinking and worship, Dance did not still appeal as a means to evolvement. This, despite reformers like Martin Luther remarking, “The heart overflows with gladness, and leaps and dances for the joy it has found in God. In this experience the Holy Spirit is active, and has taught us in the

flash of a moment the deep secret of joy.” During the 18th and 19th. Centuries there was a revival of religious Dance through ballets based on Christian themes, and churches also allowed some celebrations of Dance within their premises - perhaps to try and move along with the times. Yet, at the core, churches, especially out of Europe, attempted to distance religion from socio-cultural practices. So, while religious celebration in the church does not prohibit Dance, it is silent in its sanction as well - perhaps not wanting to either appease or deride. Within the premises of a church, many members still believe in quiet contemplation and worship. Arguments that Dance has always been a part of Christian culture are not without reason; tumultuous events in Christian religious history have been dotted with celebration through Dance. The Israelites had danced in joy when Moses had led them to the ‘promised land’, after parting the Red Sea and delivering them from the clutches of Egyptian slavery. The Great King David danced before God when the ‘Ark of Covenant’ was brought to Jerusalem. And David danced before the Lord with all [his] might; and David [was] girded with a linen ephod’ (2 Samuel 6:14)

Room For Faith the next morning. He also decided that he would soon find some work, or may be invest in a small business. He had faith in God and on his ability to rebuild the family’s life. Early the following morning a ‘tonga’ was hired and the whole family, with their few belongings, soon reached their new rented house. The tongawala was paid off, their stuff unloaded and, with great expectations, Chaudhary proceeded to press the call bell. For several minutes there was no response. Then a lady appeared, looking askance at the eager faces. When the head of the family explained that he had settled the rent deed the previous evening, presumably with her husband, she showed great surprise. “But we’ve already taken some other tenant this morning at Rs 30 per month. Anyway, here is your advance”, she said bluntly - shoving Rs. 25 into Chaudhary’s shaking hands - and shut the door. Chaudhary’s world came crashing down. His faith was shattered. Their place

Dance advocates have also blamed the hypocritical nature of the clergy during the Middle Ages, which sanctioned religious Dance among themselves but kept the commoners out of the Dance tradition. Critics have been quick to counter-attack, citing: events from the Old Testament, when vice and caprice among the Israelites - after their deliverance from bondage - provoked Moses to curse them to die in the desert; that even King David had danced improperly, shedding his clothes before God; that the instances of Dance in the Old Testament reflected the Hebrew culture of ancient times - where Dance was a celebration and not a religious norm. Advocates of Dance have a valid reason to believe that Dance in the precincts of the Church is naturally ordained in religion, as it is an expression of joy, selfless surrender and a natural tendency to celebrate God through purity of movement. It would be prudent to conclude that Dance has always found expression in the ancient Christian religion, and has been open to interpretations based on the current ‘socio-cultural religious norms’. u The writer is a renowned Kuchipudi Danseuse and Choreographer

at the Mandir would have already been taken by the many waiting families. They had nowhere to go. At whose door would he now knock? There were some distant relatives in Delhi but no one would agree to put up so many people. “For the first time in my adult life,” he would confess later, “I cried.” All this time a man next door had been watching this scene play out. He quietly walked over to the shocked family and asked them to come into his house. He even picked up their luggage from the road. “I have a vacant room. You can stay here as long as you like. There will be no rent. I’m sorry for my neighbours’ behaviour.” Chaudhary and his family stayed in Mr & Mrs Bhatnagar’s government quarter in Gole Market for nearly 2 months. They all cooked in the same kitchen and ate together. Later, Bhatnagar would also find them a haveli on rent in ‘Old’ Delhi. The owner, his friend Bashir Ali, would even make Chaudhary his partner in ‘Capital Hat House’ - near Kotwali in Chandni Chowk. Still later, he would sell the business to him and migrate to Pakistan. Chaudhary Saheb’s faith in humanity was restored. A good Samaritan had helped change the life of his family.u

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‘All Quiet on the Western Front’ as Graphic Novel

orld War I may be 100 years away in time, but the events of 1914 still speak to us - from the initial war euphoria, through the growing disillusionment and to the terrors in the trenches. The novel, ‘All Quiet on the Western Front’, by Erich Maria Remarque, is one reason that we still have a clear picture of that War today. First published in 1928, Remarque’s book has been translated into more than 50 languages and continues to be widely read.   Now an ‘allpictures’ version is appearing in the form of a 176-page Graphic Novel, by German Artist Peter Eickmeyer. He drew 70 full-page spreads and hundreds of smaller boxes, to tell the story. The images in ink show a sombre world - frequently in ash-grey and earthy tones. “I wanted the style to feel angry,” says Eickmeyer, 50, who is based in the small town of Melle in northern Germany. He recalls that while drawing he was pushing so

{ Dorothea Huelsmeier/Cologne, Germany/ DPA }

German Graphic Artist Peter Eickmeyer leafs through ink drawings for his Graphic Novel, ‘All Quiet on the Western Front’, adapted from the book by Erich Maria Remarque. hard on his pen that he broke it on one occasion. “That was when I saw that this was precisely the mode of expression that I was looking for,” he says, adding that he had found it impossible to recreate the novel in ‘clean’ panels - in traditional comic style. The fact that the Graphic Novel is appearing in 2014, precisely 100 years after the War broke out, is pure coincidence, Eickmeyer says. The work had been in the planning for some time; he began working on his version in 2009. Eickmeyer adds that Remarque

hailed from Osnabrueck, just 30 kilometres away from his studio. Germany’s interest in the Centenary ‘celebrations’ of the War’s outbreak has been muted, in comparison with other European nations, but there has been an increase in war books appearing in the shops. Eickmeyer’s Graphic Novel is a first for Germany, where war is a subject of general revulsion.   Remarque started his novel in a hospital in Duisburg in 1917/18, after being moved out of the trenches as an invalid,

The Art of Forgery

German art forger Wolfgang Beltracchi (centre), his wife Helene (left) and film Director Arne Birkenstock (right) at the premiere of the documentary film ‘Beltracchi - The Art of Forgery’ tracchi, who still spends his nights in a prison cell but is on ‘day release’, doesn’t seem to be suffering as he repays his debt to society. In fact he is enjoying his celebrity-hood. First, there was his two-volume autobiography, and now there is the film. Its Producer and Director, Arne Birkenstock, happens to be the son of Reinhard Birkenstock, the lawyer who defended Beltracchi in court. Arne shrugs off suggestions that this may denote bias. Outraged crit-

according to Thomas Schneider, Head of the Erich Maria Remarque Peace Centre in Osnabrueck. “He came back to the theme in 1927, and completed his novel,” Schneider says. The Novel, with its main protagonist Paul Baeumer, is not in fact autobiographical, even if the original marketing suggested that it was. In fact Remarque, who was working as a journalist at the time, made use of various sources for the plot. Like Remarque, Eickmeyer and his wife Gaby von Borstel under-

took their own research for the Graphic Novel version, travelling to Ypres in Belgium (among other places) - the site of two WWI battles. Whereas in Germany, World War I is ‘far off the horizon’ for many people, having been heavily overlaid by World War II, Eickmeyer realised that “in Flanders and northern France the memory is still very strong.” He and his wife visited the museums and cemeteries and trenches, which have been re-opened. Attention to historical detail was a key point for the Artist. Did the German soldiers wear modern steel helmets, or the traditional Prussian spiked helmet? The graphic version of the Novel also contains numerous references to other works, including films and Picasso’s Guernica - another significant anti-war statement of the 20th century.  Sven Jachmann of Splitter, the publishers, says that there has been exceptional interest ahead of the publication. “This is quite unusual for a debut in the comic genre,” he says, noting that there has also been interest from abroad. u

he made the super-rich look like Art philistines and fools. The 100-minute Film neither glorifies nor damns Beltracchi; what emerges condemned is the Art market. At times the film is as suspenseful as a crime story. Birkenstock succeeds in getting some of the ‘spoiled’ victims of the fraud before the camera. A super-wealthy Art collector, Bernard Van Ommeslaghe, tells how sad he was that his ’genuine’ Campendonk painting turned out to be a ‘genuine Beltracchi’. “Now a Magritte is hanging in its place,” says the Collector, shown at his home, where every wall is covered with incredibly expensive Art - from Renoir to Warhol. “We got the money back and bought something else,” he says. In scenes of Beltracchi at work, the camera circles around him at the easel and focuses on his steady hand. The Film also accompanies Beltracchi to a flea market in a car park, as he buys an old painting for 50 euros. In minute detail, it shows how he scrapes off the image from the 1920s-era canvas and paints a putative original Expressionist picture on it instead. At the end, Beltracchi even stuffs the original dust balls back into the frame and then smoothens the varnish with a steam iron - to ‘age’ it. Beltracchi

says that he forged about 300 paintings - starting in the 1970s. “I could have painted 2,000 pictures,” he said. Just two more, and he would have purchased a palazzo in Venice and “called it quits.” The ageing hippie brags: “I am of the opinion that I can actually do anything. I can even paint a Leonardo da Vinci.” Beltracchi’s special talent is for forging the paintings by Max Ernst, a German Artist whom the forger asserts was “no genius.” Such statements are offset in the Film by the original sound recordings of (surrealist painter) Ernst (1891-1976), in which he speaks of his self-doubt as a painter and his constant search for new ideas. Beltracchi says that he was never plagued by self-doubt. Is Beltracchi a mere copycat, or is he an Artist, the equal of the masters that he copied? The Film offers an answer. Towards the end, one of Beltracchi’s own creations is shown - a blood-red fallen angel. It is kitsch. Beltracchi tries to defend it, by saying his ‘heart’ was not into painting that day. A museum curator flatly says that Beltracchi would not be able to earn any money with his own work – though he could definitely earn from his ‘fakes’. For his copy of the Max Ernst painting, an out-and-out fake by the world’s most famous forger, Beltracchi wants at least 20,000 euros!   u

German Graphic Artist Peter Eickmeyer holds a proof copy of his Graphic Novel, ‘All Quiet on the Western Front’, adapted from the book by Erich Maria Remarque.

Henning Kaiser

ith a smile of pleasure, the forger applies a thick coat of gleaming yellow paint. Wolfgang Beltracchi, an amazing German ‘faker’ who made ‘monkeys’ of the Western Art world experts, is back. This time he is selling his true story - sort of. You never quite know with a forger. Beltracchi, now 63, was sentenced in 2011 to six years in prison, for what prosecutors called one of the biggest ‘Art-faking’ scams of modern times. His idea was simple: he focused on works of Rhineland Expressionism, a school of Art from the early 20th century that now commands giddy prices. Replicating long-lost German or Dutch paintings, or devising completely new ones, made him a multi-millionaire. One of the most notorious cases involved the ‘Red Picture with Horses’, supposedly painted by Heinrich Campendonk (1889-1957) of the Netherlands. Complete with fake signs of age, it sold at an auction in Cologne for 2.4 million euros (3.4 million dollars). In a just-released documentary film, ‘Beltracchi - The Art of Forgery’, you can watch over his shoulder while he demonstrates how to do it. Bel-

Carmen Jaspersen

{ Elmar Stephan/ Melle, Germany/ DPA }

ics have also seized on the fact that the film project was supported by public funding - of 425,000 euros (581,000 dollars). The young Director responds that he is not making a promotional film about Beltracchi and his wife Helene, but just laying out the facts. It is not easy to keep one’s distance from this charming, laughing trickster, who sports long, grey and curly hair. The ‘forger of the century’ captured a lot of peoples’ hearts, because

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14-20 March 2014

Lupita Nyong’o conquers Hollywood & Fashion World

he was at the Golden Globes in red, the Baftas in lime green and the Oscars in sky blue: in a few short weeks, actress Lupita Nyong’o has emerged as a global Fashion icon. The 30-year-old star of ‘12 Years a Slave’ has been transformed from a promising but largely unknown actress, into Hollywood’s bestdressed woman.  ’This year’s standout fresh face’ is what New York Magazine called the beautiful dark-skinned Kenyan. USA Today attested to her almost ‘aristocratic refinement’. Nyong’o’s rise had been unforeseen, even by experts. In her short resume’ of theatre and film engagements, she had been associated with serious, even tragic roles, which could not have been further from the glamour of fashion that she now represents. Before her out-of-nowhere success with ‘12 Years a Slave’, she admits she did not pay much attention to how she dressed. “I never purchased (fashion) magazines, was never really aware of the industry. I just liked to wear what I liked to wear,” she told USA Today. It was her ‘amazing stylist’, Micaela Erlanger, who clued her in to the world of style, she says, transforming the petite Nyong’o into the centre of attraction on every Red Carpet this year pushing her onto cover pages globally. Her trademark style is fire-engine-red lipstick and radiantly coloured - but always elegant - dresses. “Micaela’s able to take my taste and translate it,” says Nyong’o, who describes her dress sense as both “classic and modern–sophisticated, but with a sense of humour.” Now a New York City resident, Nyong’o says that thanks to her Fashion mentor, she has learned to appreciate that Fashion is Art. “A few weeks ago I put on a dress and, for the first time, it (a dress) moved me to tears.” Even before beating out the likes of Julia Roberts for the Oscar for ‘Best Supporting Actress’, Nyong’o’s life had changed. She was born in Mexico City, the second of six children of a Kenyan politician, and raised in her father’s homeland. She

Hubert Boesl

{ Christina Horsten/ New York/ DPA }

Kenyan actress Lupita Nyong’o in a sky-blue Prada gown, holding her Best Supporting Actress award in the press room at the 86th Academy Awards also known as the Oscars at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. went to college in the United States, worked on several film projects and finally found a place in the acting programme at one of America’s renowned universities, Yale. Then she was, as they say, ‘ d i s c o ve r e d ’. Director Steve McQueen was looking for just Kenyan actress Lupita Nyong’o arrives in snappy green dress at the 66th annual British Academy Film Awards, also known as the Baftas, at the Royal Opera House in London.

the right actress for a major role in his latest film. He saw the unknown Kenyan in a video and “rubbed my eyes in disbelief,” he says. Her father’s dry response, after she got the part, is one of her favourite stories. “I said, Daddy, do you know Brad Pitt? I’m going to be in a movie with him!” And he said, “I don’t know him personally, but I’m glad you got a job.” However, she otherwise keeps her personal life to herself. “I don’t know why, but I like to keep that part of it very intimate and very small,” she says. Her biggest global platform was the Oscars ceremony on March 2. Wearing a sky-blue Prada gown and once again styled by Micaela Erlanger, Nyong’o was a winner before she graced the stage. u

Drivers, Cars and Engines for 2014 F1 Season

Japan’s tallest building opens in Osaka { Tokyo/ DPA }

300-metre skyscraper was inaugurated last Friday in the Japanese city of Osaka. It is the earthquake-prone country’s tallest building.About 130 billion yen (1.26 billion dollars) was invested in the construction of the 60-storey Abeno Harukus building, whose net floor area is 300,000 square metres. Abeno Harukus, owned by Japanese railway operator Kintetsu Corp,, beat the 296-metre Landmark Tower in Yokohama, south of Tokyo.An observation deck is located around the 288-metre level - and runs from the 58th to the 60th floor. “I’m glad that I have become the first to be here. I want to enjoy the rooftop garden,” Masami Kubo, the first visitor to the Deck was quoted by the Kyodo News agency as saying.u

No.

Driver

Country

Team

Engine

Sebastian Vettel

Germany

Red Bull

Renault

Daniel Ricciardo

Australia

Red Bull

Renault

Nico Rosberg

Germany

Mercedes

Lewis Hamilton

England

Mercedes

Kimi Raikkonen

Finland

Ferrari

Fernando Alonso

Spain

Ferrari

Romain Grosjean

France

Lotus

Renault

Pastor Maldonado

Venezuela

Lotus

Renault

Kevin Magnussen

Denmark

McLaren

Mercedes

Jenson Button

England

McLaren

Mercedes

Sergio Perez

Mexico

Force India

Mercedes

Nico Huelkenberg

Emmerich

Force India

Mercedes

Esteban Gutierrez

Mexico

Sauber

Ferrari

Adrian Sutil

Germany

Sauber

Ferrari

Jean-Eric Vergne

France

Toro Rosso

Renault

Daniil Kvyat

Russia

Toro Rosso

Renault

Felipe Massa

Brazil

Williams

Mercedes

Valtteri Bottas

Finland

Williams

Mercedes

Max Chilton

England

Marussia

Ferrari

Jules Bianchi

France

Marussia

Ferrari

Marcus Ericsson

Sweden

Caterham

Renault

Kamui Kobayashi

Japan

Caterham

Renault

G lobal

14-20 March 2014

efore the auction the buzz was not only about the content - a vast stock of whisky - but also about the unusual, even bizarre or kitschy whisky bottles. How about a drink poured from an Elvis Presley porcelain bottle? Or maybe one resembling a blue Mercedes car? Or a steam locomotive? Or perhaps a drink poured from a bottle shaped like a telephone? An anonymous bidder from Eastern Europe bought the private collection of 2,600 bottles, as a single lot, for 208,000 euros (286,000 dollars). The mid-February bidding on Lot Number 18268 at Gaertner Auctioneers in Bietigheim-Bissingen, in South-western Germany, had begun at 120,000 euros. Auctioneer Christoph Gaertner said six parties were involved in a contest that lasted about 10 minutes. The buyer paid more than 100 dollars a bottle for the Collection, which was assembled as a hobby by a German, Hansi Peymann.   Over more than 30 years, Peymann did not drink any of his purchases, but stored them instead. Of the 2,600 individual items he kept, about 1,000 were decanters, crystal carafes and porcelain and ceramic jugs. Gaertner is convinced that

Talk about a Bar Tab! Marc Schaefer

{ Roland Boehm/Bietigheim-Bissingen, Germany/ DPA }

Christoph Gaertner, a German auctioneer, with some of the unusual whisky bottles from the 2,600-bottle Hansi Peymann Collection.

Christoph Gaertner, a German auctioneer, with one of the most unusual whisky containers (centre) from the 2,600-bottle Hansi Peymann Collection. This one is in the shape of a locomotive. The Collection sold for 208,000 euros at a February 14, 2014 auction in Bietigheim-Bissingen, Germany.

Bizarre ceramic whisky bottles from the 2,600-bottle Hansi Peymann Collection. the bidder now owns Europe’s largest private whisky collection. While nobody has come forth to vehemently challenge the claim, there has been some quiet mumbling to the contrary

Bernd Weissbrod

Pay-per-minute Cafe

by a whisky museum in the German town of Kirn. A good 98 per cent of the curious and bizarre receptacles are filled, and still have their original wax seals, noted auctioneer

Gaertner. One whisky dealer had earlier offered 88,000 euros for just the many litres of malt whisky - from distilleries in Scotland, Ireland, Japan, Germany and the United States - in the Peymann Collection. Peymann, who wanted the Collection to be kept together, rather than being sold bottle-bybottle, said that he had always been on the lookout for limited, special-edition bottles. There’s a Space Shuttle bottle and one resembling a Bentley radiator grill; there’s also one looking

like a slot machine, another a yellow Corvette sports car, and yet another that looks like a computer - complete with monitor. Other items in the Collection have coatings of gold, silver and even platinum…as well as delicate porcelain. One bottle is a memorabilia item from the wedding of Charles and Diana in 1981; another marks the birth of Prince William.   Before the auction, the auctioneer estimated the most expensive single bottle, at 15,000 euros, to be a bottle of vintage Cognac from 1957. Asked what his most valuable bottle was, 1945-born Peymann shrugged and said, “This never interested me. I’m a collector.” And a collector he is. Now he is offering his stamp collection. He asserts it is worth 250,000 euros. Horst Kroll of the German Whisky Museum in Kirn, some 200 kilometres North-west of Bietigheim-Bissingen, praised the Peymann Collection as ‘fantastic’ and containing some ‘crazy items’. Before the auction he had been interested in some of the individual bottles - but not all 2,600 of them.   “We don’t have the room for this.” Kroll is not convinced that this is Europe’s largest whisky collection. In his cellar he has 4,000 bottles, which, however, are being constantly consumed and replaced. He is more of a whisky fan, not a collector. “I also drink the stuff,” he said.  u

jam jars. “Everyone here is welcome to take whatever they want to eat and drink,” explains Meetin. People also bring groceries, and guests have even been known to cook a meal for an entire group. Meetin is glad that { Marc Schaefer/London/ DPA } Londoners have got to grips with the Cafe’s concept right away. “Sometimes they stand in a line to do the washing up. That isn’t necessary, but we really appreciate it,” he ondon’s first Pay-per-minute Cafe has opened explains. “Some people even wash up for others.” The its doors - all the food and drink on offer is free Russian doesn’t consider visitors to his Cafe as guests, and the customer is only billed for the length of time spent there. Cafe Ziferblat is part of a chain of but rather as short-term tenants who are part of his eateries from Russia, where the concept of pay-percommunity. Cafe Ziferblat is frequented by students, minute cafes is well established. Patrons pick up artists, public servants and business people - who laugh an alarm clock on entering, make note of the time and talk together or simply surf the Internet.  “They all and then pay three pence for every minute they Guests sit at a table with an alarm clock on it, in Cafe pay rent, so they can work here if they like, get to know spend there. Cafe owner Ivan Meetin is not looking Ziferblat in London. Customers don’t pay for the food people or simply make a coffee without being asked for a quick turnover. In fact he feels he is offering and drinks; they only pay for the time spent. It costs every 10 minutes if they want something else,” explains the opposite: a neutral environment where people three pence per minute. Meetin. The former artist believes people are tired of can spend time in the company of friends and consumerism, but still want to strangers without having to ‘reluctantly’ purchase meeting point for London’s hipsters, but have somewhere to go where they another cappuccino simply to extend their stay. An more like a cross between an average can meet people and spend some hour in Cafe Ziferblat (which means ‘clock face’ in apartment and your grandparents’ living time. Meetin brought the idea to Russian and German) costs around three dollars room.  Creaking floorboards are covered England from his native Russia, and visitors can choose from a by threadbare carpets, where he already owns nine cafes simple selection of tea, coffee, while visitors sit on a run on a similar pay-per-minute toast, cake, fruit and vegetables. mishmash of tables and basis. He also runs a cafe in the Patrons are also allowed to bring chairs of varying styles Ukrainian capital, Kiev. “If we can their own food and drink. The and antiquity. There manage to be successful here, then Café is located on the first floor of is also a piano in one Alarm clocks on a table in Cafe we can make it anywhere,” he says a residential house in Old Street corner, as well as a record Ziferblat. with a smile. “My next destination in London’s East End. It is not player and bookshelves. will then be Berlin. That’s my top immediately discernible from the There is no point looking priority.”   Meetin’s idea is sure to street, and entry is obtained by for a counter or waiting staff, as there be embraced in the German capital, as the concept has ringing a bell. “The experience is aren’t any. The Cafe’s small but fully not been tried there yet, according to Thomas Lengfelder, more like dropping around to a equipped kitchenette would not be Head of Berlin’s Hotel and Restaurant Association. friend’s house,” says the 29-year- Ivan Meetin, Founder and idea out of place in a student hostel with “This sounds like an interesting business model,” he generator of Cafe Ziferblat, holds an its loose-hanging cupboards, butter says. “Anyone with an excellent business concept is old owner. Ziferblat is not a well-polished alarm clock. knives lying on tea towels and open definitely going to have a high turnover in Berlin.”  u

14-20 March 2014

G -Scape Asha PANDEY