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DEC 2023

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VOL 17 ISSUE 200

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AUSTRALIAN INDIAN PERSPECTIVE

Celebrating 200th milestonE A Rich Tapestry of Triumphs and Cultural Resonance, Chronicling the Vibrant Journey of the Indian Australian Diaspora since 2007. May 2007 – Dec 2023

DREAM GIRLS OF BOLLYWOOD: A Glittering Tribute by Bollywood Dance Company

WORLD OF SMILES: Healthy Smiles Dental Wins Excellence Award

BLUE DIWALI: Celebrate India's Dazzling Diwali Festival at Fed Square

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

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G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

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G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

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NEWS VICTORIA

G’DAY INDIA PTY LTD FOR NEWS, FEATURES, EDITORIAL, COMMENTS, REPORTS, FEEDBACK & ADVERTISING

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Anmol Anand, Debasree Das, Dileep Narayan, Dr Raj Kotharu, Gary Nair, Harpal Sandhu, Manjit Sethi, Narisa Dawar, Sanchita Abrol, Karthik Arasu, Abhi Narayan, Gurpal Singh, Monisha Iswaran, P. Harsora, Nandita Chakraborty, Archita Baweja, Barinderjeet Kaur, Gurpal Singh, Muktesh Chibber, Shivani Prabhu, Payel Ghosh Disclaimer: Opinions published in G’Day India are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher. No advertising design or material is to be reproduced without the written consent of the editor. All copyrights reserved to G’Day India. Articles, pictures, photographs and advertisements accepted by G’Day India Pty Ltd are on the understanding that the supplier of such materials has obtained all the relevant copyrights, permissions and grants permission to G’Day India Pty Ltd to publish them. Any liability arising from failure to obtain such permission lies entirely and exclusively with the supplier. Qualities of products and services advertised in G’Day India are not guaranteed by G’Day India Pty Ltd.

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

From the Editor

Celebrating 200 Issues of G'DAY INDIA:

A Tapestry of Stories, Triumphs, and Community Spirit! Embarking on our 200th milestone is a testament to the vibrant tapestry woven by the Indian diaspora in Australia. Since 2007, G'DAY INDIA has been a chronicle of dreams realized, triumphs achieved, and a community united in a colorful mosaic of success. Our pages have been graced by the talents of the growing Indian diaspora, each story a brushstroke in the canvas of our cultural connection. From the steady influx of Indian immigrants to Australia, we've documented the journey of embracing the Australian narrative with determination and spirit. G'DAY INDIA is more than a magazine; it's a storyteller, echoing the heartbeat of the community. With each issue, we've celebrated extraordinary stories, showcasing the achievements and successes that define our collective journey. Today, we proudly stand as Melbourne's preferred news and lifestyle magazine, synonymous with positive storytelling. As we turn each page, we aim to create a tapestry of triumphs, victories, and the diverse narratives of the Indian Australian Diaspora. In every word, we present the Australian Indian Perspective, empowering our readers with knowledge and insight. Time is money, and we've always valued the precious time our readers invest in our stories. On this special occasion, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our readers, sponsors, advertisers, collaborators, and the entire community. Thank you for 200 issues of love, trust, and the opportunity to be part of your history. Here's to the next chapter of storytelling, community spirit, and endless possibilities!

MAY 2007 - DEC 2023

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G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

Affordable Childcare Where It’s Needed Most

MELBOURNE, Dec 5: The Allan Labor Government is getting on with reforming early childhood education to give every Victorian child the best start for the best life – with the final locations of the 50 government-owned and operated childcare centres set to create thousands of extra places for children across the state. Premier Jacinta Allan and Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn visited Moomba Park Primary School – which will see one of the state’s first government-owned childcare centres – to announce the sites for 10 childcare centres that will open in 2026, as well as the areas for a further 20 centres set to open in 2027 and 2028. Creating more than 950 new places for kids across childcare and three- and fouryear-old kinder, the 10 centres set to open in 2026 will be co-located with existing government schools where there is a need for more childcare – and will have space for facilities for critical services like Maternal and Child Health and Allied Health where possible. The new centres opening in 2026 will be located at Clunes Primary School, Hallam Primary School, Harrisfield Primary School, Kings Park Primary School, McClelland Secondary College, Numurkah Primary School, Portland South Primary School, Wedderburn College, Wilmot Road Primary School and Wyndham Park Primary School. The 20 new locations opening in 2027 and 2028 will be in Alexandra, Avoca, Bendigo South, Casterton, Churchill, Cohuna, Craigieburn, Cranbourne, Drouin, Hamilton, Maffra and District, Melton West, Mickleham, Newborough, Nicholson and District,

Roxburgh Park, Warrnambool, Wollert, Wonthaggi–Inverloch, and Woori Yallock. Where possible, these 20 centres will be located at or alongside government schools, hospitals, TAFEs and other major employers, making childcare more accessible and convenient – as well as affordable – for busy families. The first four government-owned childcare centres are set to open in 2025 at Moomba Park Primary School, as well as Eaglehawk North Primary School, Murtoa College and Sunshine Primary School. The rollout of Victoria’s childcare centres builds on the work the Labor Government has already done to reform the early education

system, so it works for Victorian families – giving children a fantastic start to their education, saving busy families time and money and giving parents the opportunity to get back to work or study earlier if they want. The Labor Government has already introduced universal three-year-old kinder, made both three- and four-year old kinder totally free for every Victorian child, and invested more than $2.7 billion in infrastructure to make sure facilities in every corner of Victoria are modern, fit-for-purpose and support our children to grow and learn. To find out more about the new childcare centres, visit schoolbuildings.vic.gov.au/50childcare-centres-victoria

Supporting Victorian Small Businesses This Christmas

MELBOURNE, Dec 6: More small businesses across Victoria are being supported this festive season, with the launch of a Christmas gift ideas list to help communities across the state buy locally and support small businesses this festive season, made possible by the Allan Labor Government. Minister for Small Business Natalie Suleyman today launched the Business Victoria Christmas Gift Ideas for 2023, featuring 13 gift ideas from Victorian small businesses that will bring cheer to friends and family and boost local businesses this Christmas. Now in its fourth year, the Christmas Gift Ideas list showcases the vibrant and diverse small businesses across the state and offers unique gifts with a distinctly Victorian flavour.

From local manufacturers, food and beverages, creative industries to women-led businesses, First Nations businesses and social enterprises, the list celebrates the ingenuity of small business across metro and regional Victoria. Pet owners can support Houndsome Dog, a Victorian business producing an Australian made collection of accessories for dogs with a focus on design, quality, and sustainability. Houndsome products are designed in Seddon and produced in collaboration with local makers and suppliers, including their blankets which are made from repurposed Australian Merino Wool and woven exclusively by Geelong Weaving Mill. Preston-based charity Worthy Cause makes artisanal cookies with all of the proceeds directed towards supporting the

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employment of vulnerable individuals who struggle to find work. Victoria is renowned for its entrepreneurial spirit and Victoria’s 650,000 small businesses are a critical part of our economy, accounting for 41 percent of employment across the state. Christmas and the summer months provide the ideal opportunity for Victorians to support local small businesses, strengthening local communities and contribute to the state’s economy. Visit the Victorian Small Business Christmas Gift Ideas for 2023: business.vic. gov.au/learning-and-advice/hub/12-victoriansmall-business-christmas-gift-ideas-2023

NEWS VICTORIA

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

Supporting The Mental Health Workforce of The Future

MELBOURNE, Dec 5: A new comprehensive framework will guide Victoria’s mental health workforce, as the Allan Labor Government continues delivering the recommendations of the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System. Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt today launched, ‘Our workforce, our future’ – a framework that lays out the skills, attributes

and knowledge needed by the mental health workforce to best meet the needs of Victorians now and into the future, following the release of a high-level overview of the framework in December 2021. Mental health care providers will be able to use the information outlined in the framework as a guide for building their teams and designing roles, helping them operate as a part of a statewide collaborative network. Guidance within the ’Our workforce, our future’ framework aims to: • Provide a common language for health services to use to describe roles, encourage inclusivity, and ensure professional practice • Support collaboration between services in the mental health and wellbeing

system • Drive continuous improvement • Support better outcomes for consumers, families, carers and supporters. The principles and capabilities outlined in the framework are meaningful and farreaching, giving health services time to progressively implement them and will be supported by the Department of Health throughout the process. This is the latest recommendation of the Royal Commission to be implemented, with the introduction of the Mental Health and Wellbeing Act 2022 already supporting change throughout the system to provide more diverse, responsive, and compassionate mental health care to Victorians. The Labor Government has invested more than $600 million in Victoria’s mental health and wellbeing workforce since the Royal Commission findings were handed down, laying the foundations for a future where every Victorian has access to the mental health care they need. For more information on the framework, visit health.vic.gov.au/our-workforce-ourfuture

Making Schools Inclusive for All Victorian Students

MELBOURNE, Dec 6: More students with disability and additional needs will have the support they deserve thanks to a funding boost by the Allan Labor Government – delivering more inclusive play areas, sensory gardens and outdoor learning spaces. Minister for Education Ben Carroll today announced 37 schools will share in more than $9 million to create facilities suitable for students of all abilities, as part of Round nine of the Labor Government’s Inclusive Schools Fund (ISF). Since its establishment, around 420 creative projects have been funded through the transformational program, helping build inclusive learning spaces and specially designed accessible playgrounds – ensuring all students are able to fully participate, develop and succeed in Victorian government schools. The Fund will see improvements made to play areas and support the creation of outdoor learning spaces with sensory equipment for students to play and socialise in. Indoor spaces will also be renovated to promote more inclusive classroom organisation, increase participation and improve learning outcomes for students with disabilities or additional needs.

Some of the schools to receive funding include Lara Lake Primary School which has been allocated $299,999 for a new inclusive playground. Talbot Primary School has also been allocated $299,741 for an all-seasons outdoor learning and gathering space, while Eskdale Primary School will receive $193,526 for a sensory garden. The Labor Government launched the ISF in 2015 to help schools cater for students whose additional needs require extra facilities. A total of $80 million has been invested to deliver these works throughout Victoria. The Government is investing nearly $1.6 billion in the Disability Inclusion program

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to better respond to the needs of students with disability, ensuring they can participate and achieve their full potential at school and beyond. This year, another $235 million is giving more students with disability the support they deserve, with a focus on students in specialist schools – as well as supporting parents and carers of children with disability with things like out-of-school-hours care and space for specialist medical appointments within special schools. For more information about the Inclusive Schools Fund, visit schoolbuildings.vic.gov. au/inclusive-schools-fund

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

New Road Safety Campaign to Tackle Drink Driving Myths

MELBOURNE, Dec 2: The Allan Labor Government is reminding Victorians to be extra cautious on the roads and not drinking and driving this holiday season after a devastating year on the roads, with 271 lives lost on roads across the state. A new road safety campaign will highlight the dangers of low-level drinking and driving and bust the myths people believe on how to stay under .05 when drinking alcohol and

ultimately says don’t drink and drive. The latest TAC Road Safety Monitor report reveals a concerning48 per cent of Victorians would still consider driving after two or more alcoholic drinks. The Transport Accident Commission (TAC) and Victoria Police ad campaign Stop Kidding Yourself. If you drink, don’t drive says it’s time to remove the guesswork and don’t risk drinking and driving.

The impactful new campaign combats key myths on the speed at which people drink, how many standard drinks are appropriate per hour, if people have had enough water, how much people have eaten and even body size. The ad campaign also emphasises one of the mandatory penalties for all drink drivers caught in Victoria – having an interlock device installed. Of all the substances that are tested roadside, alcohol remains the most represented drug in fatally injured drivers – with close to one-in-five drivers and riders killed being over the legal limit. Victorians will see and hear the new campaign across TV, online, radio, music streaming platforms, cinemas, regional press, social media, outdoor advertising, and billboards – from 4 December 2023 through to 31 January 2024. The Labor Government is delivering this campaign to address one of the key focus areas of the Victorian Road Safety Action Plan 2021 – 2023, to support and enforce safer driver behaviour. For more information on the campaign, visit https://www.tac.vic.gov.au/road-safety/ staying-safe/drink-driving

Improving Abortion Access Across Melbourne

MELBOURNE, Nov 29: The Allan Labor Government is making it safer and easier for women to access abortion services closer to home – with additional public health services now operating in Melbourne’s east. Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas and Member for North-Eastern Metropolitan Region Sonja Terpstra last week visited Eastern Health to mark the start of new surgical termination services. Improved access to the surgical termination of pregnancy procedure (also known as STOP) means for many women, travel to inner city Melbourne to access care is no longer required, with services made available closer to home. Peninsula Health are also commencing STOP and Western Health will offer the procedure soon. Undertaking any medical procedure can be a stressful experience, and with improved access across Melbourne, more women will be able to access this critical healthcare option at their local hospital – ensuring they are closer to the support of friends and family, while also reducing the cost and time of travel. This month marks eight years since the Labor Government passed critical legislation

to introduce safe access zones around abortion providers, ensuring all Victorian women can access lawful medical services safely and privately, and free from unnecessary harassment and intimidation. This year, Victoria also marks the 15th anniversary since the decriminalisation of abortion – the introduction of Abortion Law Reform Act in 2008 – ensuring women accessing the procedure were protected by the law. Improving access to abortion services is just one part of the Labor Government’s record investment in women’s health – with more than $153 million in the Victorian Budget 2023/24 to improved and expand services. This includes an additional nine sexual and reproductive health hubs across metropolitan and regional Victoria, adding to the 11 already established – offering free or low-cost services and advice related to

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contraception, termination of pregnancy and sexual health testing and treatment. Further work is also underway to improve access to women’s healthcare services, including establishing 20 new comprehensive women’s health clinics that will offer free, comprehensive care and support for Victorians experiencing conditions like endometriosis, pelvic pain, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). More information on abortion services in Victoria is available at betterhealth.vic.gov.au/ abortion-in-victoria and 1800 MyOptions

NEWS AUSTRALIA

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

Indian-origin Dave Sharma officially sworn in as senator in Australia CANBERRA, Dec 4: Indian-origin former MP Dave Sharma was officially sworn in on Monday as a senator for New South Wales (NSW) in the Australian Parliament. Sharma, 47, defeated former state treasurer Andrew Constance last month to become the first person of Indian-origin from the opposition Liberal party to win the NSW senate position. The former Australian Ambassador to Israel received applause after swearing his affirmation of allegiance, and was congratulated by his colleagues, The Canberra Times reported. He was flanked by his NSW moderate faction colleagues, Andrew Bragg and Maria Kovacic, as he took oath for a seat left vacant by former Foreign Minister Marise Payne. "An honour to escort our newest Senator, Dave Sharma, for his swearing-in today. Congratulations Senator Sharma," Senator Kovacic wrote on X. Sussan Ley, Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party, said Sharma is a "welcome addition" to the federal Liberal team. "He has strong experience in Parliament and in senior diplomatic postings. Dave’s keen foreign policy intellect will be particularly welcome given we are in the most dangerous set of geopolitical circumstances since WWII," Ley wrote on X. The development comes as the Liberals look to claw back support and win predominantly Labor-held seats. In a statement earlier, Liberal Party leader Peter Dutton had said that Sharma's entry to

the Senate as part of the Liberal Party comes at a crucial time given events abroad and at home, "His diplomatic and foreign policy expertise and experience will lend considerable weight and wisdom to the public policy debate given the precarious circumstances in Eastern Europe, the Middle East and the Indo-Pacific," Dutton had said, congratulating Sharma on securing the seat. Dutton further said that Dave will continue to fight for everyday Australian workers, families and small businesses which are being forgotten and left behind by the ruling Labor government.

As a career diplomat prior to entering parliament, Dave was also posted to Washington D.C. and Port Moresby, served as a peacekeeper with the Peace Monitoring Group in Bougainville, and headed the international division within the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet. He studied at the University of Cambridge, where he graduated with first-class honours in Law. He also has a Master of Arts from Cambridge and a Master of Arts (International Relations) from Deakin University. (IANS)

Australia's gender pay gap falls to new low

CANBERRA, Nov 28: The gender pay gap in Australia has fallen 1.1 percentage points to a new low of 21.7 per cent in 2023, a new report said. More women in management drives a decline in the gender pay gap, but every

industry and almost three in four employers still have a gender pay gap larger than 5 per cent in favor of men, the Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) said in its annual update on the state of workplace gender equality.

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It's a decrease of 1.1 percentage points from 22.8 per cent in 2022, the second largest single-year drop since WGEA started collecting employer data in 2014. It means on average, for every 1 Australian dollar men earn, women earn 78 cents. The average annual pay difference between men and women has narrowed by A$1,322, but a gap of A$26,393 remains, the report said. The key driver of the lower gender pay gap is an increase in the proportion of women in management and in the upper pay quartiles. The proportion of women managers is now at 42 per cent, up from 41 per cent last year, according to the report. "Increased discussion and debate around gender equality, a tight labour market and impending legislative reform have helped drive action on workplace gender equality over the last year," WGEA chief executive officer Mary Wooldridge was quoted as saying in a news release. (IANS)

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

Arnold Dix is hero of Australia-India bilateral relations: Envoy Philip Green

NEW DELHI, Dec 4: Australian High Commissioner to India Philip Green honoured international tunnelling expert Arnold Dix for the Uttarkashi rescue and called him the hero of Australia-India bilateral relations. "We are enormously proud of him (Dix). He has played an important role in a vital rescue. It is a matter of joy for all of us that all 41 men are safe. It is a matter of great happiness that he was part of the effort to rescue them. We are all in your debt; you are a hero of this nation, a hero of AustraliaIndia bilateral relations," Green said. International tunnelling expert Professor Arnold Dix provided important technical support on the ground in the Uttarakhand tunnel rescue operation. Speaking at the Australian High Commission, Dix said: "41 men are home safe and no one is injured. I feel honoured that India took me as honorary father for 41 children and to play a role in bringing them home. I have never in my career seen more wonderful coordination between federal government, state government , rescue agency, military and volunteers." He expressed that the toughest thing during the rescue was to remain cool and not rush and added that the Uttarkashi rescue was the hardest mission he has done. Dix also shared his view on the cause of the accident and said, "I haven't done the forensic

investigation of what caused it. From an engineering point of view, the support cast that we use failed, and I don't know why exactly it failed. I am confident that once we understand that, we can resolve it." Interestingly, he was witnessed paying his visit to the temple at the rescue site, on which he said," I knew this area was most sacred for Hindus; there was no doubt that this mission had an epic dimension to it." On lessons learned from this rescue operation, Professor Dix highlighted the need to take arrogance out of engineering. All 41 workers who were trapped inside Uttarakhand's Silkyari tunnel since November 12 have been evacuated safely. On November 12, a section of the tunnel between 205 and 260 metres from the Silkyara side collapsed. Workers who were beyond the 260-metre mark were trapped, with their exit blocked. Following the safe evacuation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the courage and patience of the trapped workers and their families, as well as the bravery and determination of the rescue personnel.

By Sahil Pandey

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G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

Australian PM apologises to Mine closure major victims of pregnancy drug solutions economic opportunity for linked to defects. Australia

CANBERRA, Nov 29: Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Wednesday delivered a national apology to victims of a pregnancy drug that caused birth defects. In a speech to Parliament, Albanese offered an "unreserved and overdue" apology to survivors of thalidomide, saying the system failed both mothers and children affected by the morning sickness drug. Wednesday marked 62 years to the day since thalidomide was withdrawn from sale in Australia after it was linked to birth defects. "We understand an apology does not balance years of inaction and inadequate support. We know the toll of thalidomide is still felt today," Albanese said. A 2019 Senate inquiry into thalidomide in Australia found that more urgent action

in 1961 when the link between the drug and birth defects was discovered could have prevented 20 per cent of cases and recommended a national apology. There are 146 registered survivors of thalidomide in Australia, most of whom were in attendance in Parliament for the apology. According to a study published by the University of Aberdeen in 2015, thalidomide caused over 10,000 cases of severe birth defects globally in the 1950s and 1960s as well as increased miscarriage rates. Albanese on Wednesday announced that the government would reopen a support program for survivors of the drug. A national site of recognition for survivors of thalidomide will be unveiled in Canberra.

(IANS)

CANBERRA, Dec 4: Australia has an opportunity to become a world-leader in sustainable mine closures amid the global green energy transition, according to a report released. In the report, the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) identified mine closure solutions as a major economic opportunity for Australia. According to the report, Australia's annual expenditure on mine closures and rehabilitation activities, including the remediation and re-vegetation of contaminated land, will exceed A$4 billion, with approximately 240 mines around the country set for closure by 2040. The report mapped how Australia can capitalize on the closures by creating a new billion-dollar industry to support mine closures, identifying opportunities in waste reduction and recovery, mine rehabilitation, land use transitions and engagement and partnerships. "With thousands of active and inactive mines in Australia, the demand for mine closure solutions will only increase as we seek to ensure positive closures and to transition regions to successful post-mining futures," Dominic Banfield, lead author of the CSIRO report, said in a media release. The report said that addressing challenges in post-closure land uses could deliver longterm economic, social and environmental benefits for surrounding communities, and enabling the recycling of mine waste would minimise closure liabilities. "Looking ahead, we believe Australia can harness its domestic mine challenge to emerge as a global leader in cutting-edge mine closure solutions," said Guy Boggs, CEO of the Cooperative Research Centre for Transformations in Mining Economies. (IANS)

Australia's health spending in Covid-19 response tops $30bn

CANBERRA, Nov 29: Australia's spending on the health response to the Covid-19 pandemic topped $30 billion through its first three years, a government report revealed. The report, which was published by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), found that Australia's total estimated government health spending in response to the pandemic from the start of financial year 2019-20 to the end of financial year 2021-22 was A$47.9 billion ($31.8 billion). Of that total, A$27.9 billion were spent on primary care, including A$6.1 billion on the

vaccine rollout, and A$10.5 billion on public hospitals. Geoff Callagan, a health economics expert from the AIHW, said in a media release that the spike in Australia's health spending in response to Covid-19 was low compared to most of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries. "Australia's health spending from 2020 to 2022 was 2 per cent higher than expected, based on a linear forecast of the 10 years preceding Covid-19," he said.

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"This is referred to as 'additional health spending'. Australia had the seventh lowest additional health spending out of 36 countries." According to AIHW data, Australia's total excess mortality from 2020 to 2022 was 4 per cent higher than the expected mortality. In addition to government spending, the report revealed that Australians spent an estimated A$878 million out of their own pockets on Covid-related services and items, of which rapid antigen tests (RATs) accounted for 67.9 per cent. (IANS)

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

Existing technologies can halve Australia's emissions by 2030

CANBERRA, Dec 1: Existing technologies will enable Australia to halve its greenhouse gas emissions from 2020 levels by 2030, a fresh report revealed on Friday. According to the report, which was published by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), that under a rapid decarbonisation scenario Australia could reduce emissions by 52 per cent from 2020 levels by 2030 without relying on technological advancements. The report charts key milestones Australia must hit in 10-year timesteps in order for the country to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 and help limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. It warns that technologies currently

in early development will need to be in widespread use in the 2030s and 2040s to help decarbonise sectors where emissions prove hard to abate, with investment costs to be substantial. "Pressure is mounting for business to speed up its efforts towards net zero and lead the way for the rest of the country. How to move faster to deliver a cleaner, sustainable and strong economy is the question on every business leader's mind," Peter Mayfield, the CSIRO's Executive Director of Environment, Energy and Resources, said in a statement. "This work will help business find a rapid and achievable pathway to net zero appropriate to their sector - guiding investment to mitigate climate change,

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reinventing industries of old, and creating new jobs in emerging industries." The report forecasts that Australia's effort to reduce emissions will be led by decarbonising the electricity sector. The Australian government has set a goal of 82 per cent of national electricity coming from renewable sources by 2030. In order for renewables to make up 90 per cent of the electricity generation mix by 2030, the CSIRO report said that almost all new generation capacity installed in the intervening period would need to be renewable and supported by greater storage capacity. (IANS)

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G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

Getting married in Australia How do the parties give the notice if they are overseas or interstate? Where the parties will be overseas or interstate until a time that is less than one month before the marriage, they may send a copy of the NOIM and supporting documents to the celebrant by post, (scanned) email, or fax. It is not acceptable for a celebrant to accept a NOIM and/or supporting documents via videoconferencing services such as Skype. Actual documentation must be received by the celebrant. If the NOIM is to be posted it should be sent by some form of registered post. It is recommended that couples send photocopies of their supporting documents with the NOIM when they post them from overseas or interstate. If there are any potential problems with, for example, divorce papers or death certificates, the celebrant will be able to advise the couple of this before they arrive for the marriage. The celebrant will need to obtain the original NOIM from the parties and sight the original supporting documents relating to evidence of date and place of

G’Day Mate !

birth, identity and evidence of the end of a previous marriage (if relevant) prior to solemnising the marriage. This means the parties will need to bring these original documents with them when they meet the celebrant. Where the original NOIM cannot be obtained, for example because it has been lost by the couple, consideration should be given to whether there is enough time to complete a new NOIM or a shortening of time could be sought. If you have further questions, you may contact me on 0425 853 086 or navee64@gmail.com.

Indonesia sets up tourism fund to boost visitor arrivals

Jakarta, Dec 5 (IANS) The Indonesian government is currently establishing a tourism fund to support the country in developing sustainable tourism and attract more visitors, a Minister said. Minister for Tourism and Creative Economy Sandiaga Uno said the tourism fund, set to be launched in early 2024, would manage an initial fund at 2 trillion rupiahs ($129 million) to support the promotion of tourism events and improve the nation branding of Indonesia's tourism in the global market, reports Xinhua news agency. "We will use the fund to support both national and international events, such as sports, music, and cultural arts, which will be held here in Indonesia. "This also includes high-level summits that may not directly be related to tourism, because international conferences also bring economic impacts," Uno told reporters. There will be at least three international-scale events to be hosted by Indonesia in 2024, namely BWF Badminton World Tour-Indonesia Masters, the 10th World Water Forum and Indonesia MotoGP in Mandalika. That agenda, Uno said, was expected to help the post-Covid recovery in Indonesia's tourism sector. According to the Indonesia Statistics (BPS), from January to October, Indonesia recorded 9.49 million tourist arrivals, higher than the government's target of 7.4 million at the beginning of this year.

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G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

Cricket, Bollywood, India among Wikipedia's

top 25 most popular articles of 2023

NEW DELHI, Dec 6: the Wikimedia foundation, the nonprofit that operates Wikipedia, released its annual list of the most viewed articles on English Wikipedia in 2023, and for the first time since the foundation started publishing these year-end most popular lists in 2015, articles related to Indian topics were prominently featured in the list, with about seven appearing in the top 25. Cricket is one of the most popular sports in the world, but no cricket article has ever been in the Foundation’s year-end lists, until now. In 2023, cricket comprised a full 16 per cent of English Wikipedia's top 25 articles. The articles for the ‘2023 Cricket World Cup’ (number three), hosted this year in India, and ‘Indian Premier League’ (number four) made their way into the list of the top five most viewed articles. These Wikipedia articles, along with the ‘Cricket World Cup’ (number six) and ‘2023 Indian Premier League’ (number nine) articles collectively received over 116.8 million pageviews. Interestingly, the '2023 Cricket World Cup' page received 304 per cent more interest this year compared to its previous edition, ‘2019 Cricket World Cup’, including over 1.25 million views on the day of the tournament final. India's Virat Kohli was awarded ‘Player of the Tournament’ in the 2023 World Cup, and he received more page views on English Wikipedia this year (over ten million) than all those recorded for the 2019 Cricket World Cup that year (a little under 9.5 million). While Cricket and related articles feature prominently on the list, Bollywood isn’t too far behind with two of this year’s major blockbuster films finding their way into the top

25. ‘Jawan’ and ‘Pathaan’, both starring Shah Rukh Khan feature in eighth and tenth place on the list respectively, collectively racking up more than 41.7 million page views. Around their release dates, both films peaked at over one million page views in a single day on English Wikipedia alone. Hollywood’s ‘Oppenheimer’ (fifth) and the article on ‘J. Robert Oppenheimer (seventh) are positioned higher on the list, whereas ‘Barbie’ and ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’ are featured at positions 13 and 20 respectively. The Wikipedia article for ‘India’ is also featured in the 21st position, with almost 14 million page views. The readership of Wikipedia articles is often driven by current affairs. This year saw a number of positive, global developments

in India, including becoming the first country to land a spacecraft on the south pole of the moon through its Chandrayaan-3 mission, the winning of an Oscar for ‘Best Original Song’ for ‘Naatu Naatu’ - the first time an Indian film song has ever been recognised for these awards, India’s G20 presidency, and the hosting of the 2023 Cricket World Cup. “Wikipedia is a vital source of up–to–date and fact-checked information for people in India and around the world. Anyone who wants to learn more about a current event or gain knowledge on a topic can consult the free and collaborative online encyclopedia,” said Anusha Alikhan, Chief Communications Officer at the Wikimedia Foundation.

(IANS)

15% of US population is now foreign-born

NEW YORK, Dec 1: The total foreign-born population in the US, legal and illegal, was 49.5 million in October 2023, -- a record 4.5 million increase since President Joe Biden took office in 2021, a study by a Washingtonbased think tank found. At 15 per cent, the immigrant or foreignborn share of the US population is also the highest ever recorded in American history, the Center for Immigration Studies said, citing an October 2023 survey by the Census Bureau. As a debate rages in the country over the ongoing border crisis, the study showed that the 4.5 million increase is larger than the individual populations of 25 US states. The foreign-born population has grown on average by 137,000 a month since Biden took office, compared to 42,000 a month during Donald Trump’s presidency before Covid-19 hit, and 68,000 a month during Barack Obama’s two terms. Based on the think tank's prior estimates of illegal immigrants, more than half of the 4.5

million increase in the foreign-born population since January 2021 is likely due to illegal immigration. From January 2021 to October 2023, there have been roughly eight million “encounters” at US borders, according to Customs and Border Protection. Court records and other information on the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) websites indicate that about 2.6 million (possibly 2.7 million) inadmissible aliens have been released into the country since the start of the Biden administration. While a large share of the recent foreign-born growth is attributed to illegal immigration, legal immigrants still account for three-fourths of the total foreign-born population. A significant number of new illegal immigrants, and perhaps a majority before the current border surge, were admitted legally on a temporary visa or under the visa waiver program and then did not leave the

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country when the time limit expired, the study said. The Department of Homeland Security for FY 2022 showed 850,000 foreign visitors overstayed their authorised stay in that year. The largest percentage increases since January 2021 were for immigrants from South America (up 28 per cent); Central America (up 25 per cent); Sub-Saharan Africa (up 21 per cent); the Caribbean (up 20 per cent); and the Middle East (up 14 per cent). Immigrants from all of Latin America increased by 2.9 million since January 2021, accounting for 63 per cent of the total increase in the foreign-born. The foreign-born in Census Bureau data included all persons who were not US citizens at birth, mainly naturalised citizens, lawful permanent residents, long-term temporary visitors, and illegal immigrants. (IANS)

FEATURE

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

10 SIGNS YOUR PARTNER IS

FEELING INSECURE

Relationships are the most magical aspects of life, it empowers both partners to be the best versions of themselves. However, life can sometimes be tough and make one feel less confident. Whether this is in their personal or professional lives or even within the relationship, insecurity can damage the emotional bond between partners and lead to serious issues. What makes it a bigger concern in some cases, is when one partner is insecure about the other. This further grows into jealousy, spite, and negative emotions. Controlling this early on before the insecurity gets bigger is absolutely essential to keep the relationship happy and healthy. Lack of independent social life When two people are together for most of the time, a little space and alone time is a must to get a break. If you notice your partner is always tagging along with you or does not want to pursue any other social plans without you, it is a huge sign that they are insecure. Jealousy Insecurity in a relationship comes when one partner feels inferior to the other and thinks they might lose them. Jealousy is a common action in such cases and a major indicator that your partner does not feel secure in the relationship. Playing the victim card During arguments or just a conversation, your partner happens to put the entire blame on you and plays the victim there are often in need of attention. This could be a natural trait or a personality they picked up on while growing up. Irrespective, this sign is not healthy for a relationship. No personal space Despite telling them that you require some time

alone if your partner does not give you any personal space, it clearly means that they want to constantly be around you and are afraid of losing you. Cannot handle criticism. Insecure people tend to react loudly when criticised. This could be constructive criticism or an opinion you are sharing. If it is remotely about them, a massive fight is coming your way. Snaps back often Immaturity often tags along with an insecure person. They don’t seem to see the other perspective and only want everything to cater to them almost like being self-centred. Arguing and snapping back is common in such cases. Needs re-assurance No matter how many times you try to tell them that you love them or that they are safe with you, your partner keeps needing reassurance on their status with you. This can become extremely exhausting and even disrespectful for some. Apologising for small things Relationships often have arguments and misunderstandings but over-apologising and creating situations out of nothing can start to look extremely irritating. You may notice that your partner is constantly looking to make sure they don’t hurt you in any way and instead end up making you feel even more conscious. Comparing every move In case both partners are at different stages of life, professionally, one may feel like they have to keep up and the exhaustion from this can lead to major insecurity and low self-esteem. Overthinks Constant overthinking about the same subject and making assumptions about how they are

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feeling or what you said is everything an insecure person does. In a situation like this, it often becomes difficult to help your partner out and get their confidence back. For most this insecurity comes out of personal shortcomings and reflective exercise can immensely help overcome this. Sit with your partner and help them build their confidence back. As soon as they start to appreciate themselves and be comfortable in their own skin, the relationship too will start to flourish. However, if you do think that the concern is major, visiting a couple therapists is a great idea. Sybil Shiddell, Country Manager India for Gleeden dating app shares, “When a partner is feeling insecure, it is important to empathize and understand where they are coming from. Relationships are built together and only when both willingly and maturely handle ups and downs is what really matters. In terms of a partner feeling insecure, calmly handling the situation and strong communication is the best way to realign the relationship. However, if things get worse, know that one person alone cannot handle the baggage of the relationship and everyone deserves a secure and safe loving relationship.” (IANSlife)

LEGAL

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

Loan or gift – property division

17 17

BY GURPAL SINGH

he property settlement between separating couples/partners requires to identify the property pool, its assets, liabilities, contributions and financial resources held individually and/or jointly. On calculation, the net value of the property pool is distributed amongst the separating couples/partners in accordance with the principles of Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) (the act). It is frequently seen that the parents provide/contribute money to the newlyweds/ de facto partners to purchase the property. At the time of such an action, the money per se is given as a gift. However, at the time of separation and the property settlement, and in order to deplete the value of the equity in the matrimonial pool, such payment by the parent(s) is claimed to be a loan rather than a gift. This is notwithstanding that such transaction fail to satisfy the features of a loan. Such a claim is made purposely as a loan owed to parents or third parties shall constitute a liability and returned to the lender. In such an event one of the partner shall loose the money in final settlement whereas the other party gets undue enrichment at the cost of the partner. Generally, the financial assistance via a loan incurred during a marriage or relationship is considered a joint liability of the parties. Such joint liability should be paid from the asset pool. Taking advantage of the principles, it has become a common practice for parties in a property dispute redefine what was once understood to be a gift. The Family court often come across a situation where it requires to determine if a particular transaction was a ‘loan’ or a ‘gift’.

A loan agreement might be drawn up to protect the parents’ financial assistance intended for both parties shared benefit when they are together but not to be distributed for the ex-spouse’s benefit after separation. The court is governed by the principle of ‘presumption of advancement’. Transaction from a parent to child relationship gives rise to the presumption of advancement – a legal presumption that such a transaction is presumed to be a gift. Such a presumption was, however, rebuttable. The assessment requires consideration of various factors including but not limited to the loan agreement; security for such a loan; intention of the lender/parents at the time of contribution of the funds; repayment terms and if a demand for repayment was made; evidence of any repayment; acceptance by the partner(s) that the funds so transferred were a loan; evidence of representation to

third parties including the bank that such a payment was given as a loan; if the parties had not separated, would the loan have been called for repayment; likelihood of the loan actually being returned; if the loan was an enforceable debt or lapsed by the limitation; so on and so forth. The burden of proof lies with the person alleging that the transfer of funds was a loan and not a gift. If a party is unsuccessful in rebutting the presumption and funds are considered a gift, the funds will be considered as a part of the financial pool and included in the assessment of contribution and distributed. The case law on this issue had disregarded the loan agreement(s) where the evidence to its legitimate existence and intention to repay is vague. In the matter of Af Petersens the court stated that “it’s common in this court to meet a situation where a parent has made a loan to a child which is in all respects legally enforceable, but which is not in fact enforced and would not really be expected to be enforced. It is no doubt an “obligation” but if the obligation is not likely to have to be met, it should not be take into account”. The court will look at surrounding evidence when determining the treatment of a loan and whether it should be taken into account. The court is more likely to recognise parents’ financial assistance a loan where the criteria is met. On the contrary a verbal agreement with no past repayment can still constitute a valid loan, it is far more difficult to prove its existence and the court is more likely to categorise it as a gift and treated as an indirect financial contribution of a party who received the gift.

Gurpal Singh is the principal lawyer of Melbourne law firm, Saundh Singh & Smith Lawyers | W: www.sssl.com.au

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FEATURE

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

BLUE DIWALI

The most significant Diwali of the Southern Hemisphere by Celebrate India honours Diwali at Federation Square in its eighteenth year.

Gone are the days when Diwali was introduced to Australia as the Festival of Lights; now, with the growth of the Indian community, the true essence of Diwali is in full swing – culturally, spiritually, and religiously.

themes and programming.

Who knows better than Celebrates India's chairman Arun Sharma, along with his wife Jaya Sharma, to bring the city of Melbourne to a standstill!

This year, it was again held at the iconic Federation Square on the 4th of November with the theme Blue Diwali, raising money for Beyond Blue and tribute to Bappi Lahiri. This year, the illumination of iconic buildings like Fed Square, the Indian Consulate, the Old Treasury Building and the Museum made Diwali even more special.

The novelty stays strong each year. This year, Celebrates India's festivities have new

So, we at G'day India couldn't keep our calm since their program launch at the

committee room, MCG; we sat down with chairperson Arun Sharma to understand what motivates him to make every year bigger and better. How has the journey been so far? There are two ways to look at it: one is for the organization of the community; secondly, I will go by the community. The journey has been very long, but it's been pleasant because what started in 2005 -2006, only some were aware of this festival and the culture. So, at that time, it was like we weren't celebrating festivals, our community, which was very small, but now everyone wants to be a part of it. 80% of the broader population knows and is aware of Diwali, and it's not just the festival of lights anymore. The vibrant colours and culture visitors expected. It's the most considerable success of the journey which we had. I feel very proud of seeing the young ones involved. What was so special about the Celebrate India event this year? It's literally like asking a parent. What's so special about your children? The one thing that stood out was the number of artists we had this year; well over four to four hundred and fifty artists

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G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

performed this year. The second thing is that the enthusiasm of these artists has stayed the same over the years, then some new groups as well, plus the older artists who've been with us for more than ten years. Amazingly, we give them a challenge, and they put a lot of effort into it; for months, they practice trying to master the skills and ensure they're delivered the best way. Every year, it's getting bigger and better. So, what was the crowd this year, and what is the secret behind pulling this together? Well, the crowd has been fantastic this year because we had over 45,000 people just on the one day alone. Those were just incredible numbers just for the day. It was very satisfying. Numbers were big—another delightful thing, like a more comprehensive community presence.

How much preparation is required to pull this colossal event? So, planning starts literally from the time it finishes. I just met with the focus group to bring in new ideas on what to do next year, and then the whole group gets involved roughly four months before the festival. We are literally in full swing. We modulated given everybody. The dance groups get notified three months before, and they all want to know three months before the date, which is new. But this year, it was music from a presentation from Bengal to every region; you can think of Punjab, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and every sort of illusion language used for entertainment. We brought close to 400 to 450 local artists performing. Comedy plays at Doncaster Secondary College; tickets were mainly sold to raise money for Beyond Blue.

The secret behind it is the expectation that they like over the years we have built up. We have built relationships with the broader community, wanting excitement, newness and variety.

It was a pretty packed house; seats were sold, and it was a new thing that we had never tried before and found this artist to perform again. They prepared for three months besides this whole thing.

The secret is the sincerity and the hardworking team; they deliver their ethics and sincerity round the clock two months in advance. I mean 100%; we all must ensure we have new ideas, presentations, and styles every year. That brings the crowd togetherthe novelty, the newness of it. Various local artists are introduced everywhere to lift the festivities.

Launch was a fantastic thing for the first time at the iconic MCG. We keep adding different organizations to our themes where they usually get exposed to Indian culture and feel equal partners. It was truly satisfying. Suppose you want to do something different for the event. What would have been?

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No, nothing. We have a good wheel in motion and an excellent team, so we all need new ideas. That's the only thing we look for and deliver nicely. If people don't have to spend time raising funds, they will be way happier. If I had to change anything, I would wish for fixed funds given to us every year so that we could do some fantastic things, but that's probably different. Also, seeing the mainstream Australian public get involved is so good. What keeps you going? It's just this: just the passion to see our culture shine. It's the love of the people, and It's come a long way from the festival of lights to just Diwali. It's a big deal. You don't need to explain what the value is. Most importantly, the focus, passion, dedication and super hard-working wife motivates me to advance ahead. My wife Jaya is the enormous support; equally dedicated, if not more. If I ever get tired, even for a little thing, she brings me back to focus with that one sentence - Let's do it properly. That is fantastic support I get from her and, of course, the team. Noni Chakraborty

FEATURE

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

The World of Smiles

‘When you smile, the whole world smiles with you’, a dentist's philosophy and practice. Whitehorse Excellence in Business Award for 2023? It feels ecstatic. It is overwhelming in a positive way because our practices are associated with the Whitehorse community and council. When you receive an award from the business leaders within the community, there's a sense of achievement and accomplishment. In what way does Healthy Smile Dental Group stand out from other dental practices? Whitehorse community and council would have about two hundred dental practices nearby. Our one-stop dental practice offers everything, from sleep dentistry to children's dentistry, orthodontics, dental implants, and complex oral surgery. All under one roof in one building. With the help of fourteen dental practitioners who work six days a week, it is different. Our firm commitment to the patients is being there for them when they need us. So, we have a triage emergency system used in hospital practice that prioritizes patients based on urgency. In case of any emergencies, regardless of whether appointments are available, this is a unique feature in our practice. How Healthy Smiles remove fear often associated with dentistry? So, dental fear, dental anxiety, and dental phobia are prevalent conditions in the community.

Dr Ved Berani, founder and principal dentist of Healthy Smiles Dental Group is not new to winning accolades. Their latest victory is receiving the Whitehorse Excellence in Business Award 2023. Along with his wife, Priyanka Berani, the co-founder and backbone of this successful dentistry practice, he leads the business on innovation, development, and growth. With forty- five employees now, they are always open to new customers and changing how the community looks at dentistry. They are always looking at improving themselves.

Hundreds and thousands of patients do not see the dentist for oral problems from the fear of the noise, with the water in the mouth, the inability to swallow, and a gag reflex. Numerous conditions prevent people from accessing good dental care, so we have offered our patients multiple sedation options. With seven to eight awards behind them in the last three years and some at the national level, they now believe in becoming more efficient. Their pathos of business is defined in its simplicity, their epitome of caring and nurturing in the community. So, we at G'day India couldn't resist the opportunity to speak to the man behind the beautiful smiles. How does it feel to receive the

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Again, it is not available in your regular dental practice. We offer everything from oral sedation to laughing gas to full general anaesthetic in one location. So, we are the only dental practice in the eastern region of Melbourne with a registered day surgery dedicated to preventive procedures registered with the Department of Health and Human Services. From your perspective, what is the significance of a healthy smile?

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

A healthy smile is the gateway to confidence and a sense of good health, which is essential to someone's physical and mental health. Bad breath, pain, oral infection can play into someone’s moral. So, the minute we start our journey to improving the health of the gum’s parts of our mouth, we automatically see a shift in our customer's persona. The ability to look positively at life t is a huge change we can bring to the customer's life journey. What strategies and values underlie the provision of seven-star customer care till the smiles? Our value systems are ingrained in what we call a promise to our patients. We take responsibility for what treatments we provide for a patient. Second, we are authentic and genuine. We are the practice; we believe our treatments for our patients should be the same as those we would for our own families. That helps us deliver genuine, authentic, honest dental services. We are courageous; courage coverage is an essential aspect of a value where we encourage our team members to speak up and talk about what other improvements we can do in practice, not be afraid to express their opinions; that has created a culture of contribution. Thus, improving and continuing in innovative practice.

One other aspect of value is empathy and compassion. We all have exceptional training in dealing with fearful patients; we use specific psychological techniques, talk to these patients, and get to the initial consultations with the help of knowledge and empathy. And once we've established that one-onone relationship and a connection, the rest of the journey becomes much more accessible. Please shed some light on the commitments and efforts necessary to become Melbourne's most reputable cosmetic dentists. Our commitment to excellent quality starts with ensuring we deliver our patients the best possible care possible. We have a robust emphasis on what we call informed consent, taking a lot of time to slowly review all the options to help them understand what's available. Once they have gone through all the options and understand the consequences, the decision-making is in the hands of the patients, which makes them empowered. Ninety-five per cent of procedures in the dental industry are isolated in nature, so quality care and ethical treatment are an optimum priority for us. This is our road to success. As smiles are integral to our humanity, what personal significance does this hold for you and your practice?

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These are the two main important things right now when you meet somebody. If you smile, ninety per cent of your battle is won. When you smile, it is almost impossible for the person looking at you not to smile; smiling to smile is the human connection. Once we establish that, a conversation, relationship, and friendship start. We use a smile strategically, which is purposefully making sure that every single chance we get with somebody we know or don't know or are connected in grief, the smile is always a starting point. Use a smile as much as you can. The more you smile, the more it becomes impossible for the other person not to smile. What keeps you and your team going? We have team meetings to discuss what else we can do to improve ourselves. We substantially focus on training and hiring the right people into the practice. We don't hire people based on their resumes; we hire people based on their attitude. With the right team members with the right empathetic attitude and compassionate heart, we can always provide technical training to those people. The key to our commitment is to make sure that we build a team and a culture that invites people into a home and not into a clinical dental practice. Nandita Chakraborty

FEATURE

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

DREAM GIRLS OF BOLLYWOOD A dance company's tribute to Bollywood's glitz and glamour.

Bollywood Dance Company (BDC) operates in Australia and centres its creative stance between Melbourne and Sydney. Their motto is "Celebrating Dance, Arts, and Culture", and they have an expert faculty. BDC's Founder, Directors, and Principal Instructors Vihang Nikalje, Darshan Pawar and Sohini Banerjee started their careers in Mumbai and have worked In Bollywood, giving their academy an edge over our contemporaries. In the first few months of starting their new venture, they had the privilege of choreographing the Oscar-winning song “Naatu Naatu”, which was performed at the reception of Indian PM Narendra Modi in Australia. Not many get the privilege of hosting master class workshops with the acclaimed Vartika Jha and Tushar Shetty, well-known for their dance style and choreography in Indian Reality shows.

But their recent venture, choreographing and staging a dance show called 'Dream Girls of Bollywood', which premiered in Melbourne and Sydney last month in November; a show ode to the grace and glamour of Bollywood actresses from Madhubala to Kiara Advani. It also marks the end-of-year performances of their five hundred students. Bollywood Dance Company have been in the industry and working in Australia for over seventeen years in performing arts; their values and philosophy in teaching exemplify students, especially in the exchange of knowledge of dance. They have tried to connect to younger kids for years, tying them to their roots. It's rich, heart-warming and inspiring to know that all their hard work created here is not only connecting the Australian Indian community back to their roots but through their work, they are able to promote Indian culture and dance forms.

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It is a conscious decision to keep the vibrancy of our culture alive so far away from India. It's their simple goal to inspire and establish their studio so they can fly their dream of connecting the two cultures to the next level in their stride. The company's essence is to bring Indian culture and heritage to all dance lovers in Australia by delivering and incorporating the best training methods for its students. The big picture is for a more excellent representation of South Asian culture, language, diversity, racial equity, and intersectional inclusion—a mission to share Indian culture with the Australian community through Indian performing arts and dance. Bollywood Dance Company creates a positive community to empower and motivate students to get fit through dance and enthral the audience through performances. The next five years are prominent for the company to become a one-stop shop, especially for Bollywood dance music,

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023 movies, and weddings. An umbrella that would take in each one who aspires to learn Bollywood dance, perhaps even take it as a career. An embodiment of arts and cultural exchange that could get the best of India to Australia and vice versa. Bollywood Dance Company is also breaking cultural barriers. They have always wanted to bring the best of Indian performing arts to Australia and get the upcoming Australian talent exposure or a platform to showcase their talent. They are connecting and visible to the Indian artist and performing within the art circle. Calls for tenacity. They are trying, to be able to bridge that gap between the two cultures through this dance company. Catering to Bollywood style or performance, the art form is a vast umbrella embracing global dance styles such as hip-hop, contemporary, Indian folk, semiclassical, Latin American styles, Rock and Roll, you name it. It's all an infusion and emulsion of Bollywood songs and dances. In fact, the academy gives that versatility to the students as they don't cater to seasonal dancers; they are open to all ages, backgrounds, ethnicities, and orientations. Again, the big picture is for them to showcase their performers and create that engagement with the audiences, a complete Bollywood experience full of glitz and glamour. Like the ones we see in award shows and dance reality shows back in India. It gives their academy an edge over their contemporaries. We look forward to many more of their glamourous extravaganzas and more power to the artists and their performances. Nandita Chakraborty

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FEATURE

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

IS WORKING 70 HOURS A WEEK THE SOLUTION TO IMPROVING PRODUCTIVITY?

Recently, Narayan Murthy asserted that young professionals in India should consider working 70 hours per week to help the nation catch up with countries that have made tremendous economic strides in the past two to three decades. His remarks triggered a fierce debate across social platforms on a crucial concern, the state of work-life balance in India and its implications on productivity and well-being.

In his interview, Narayan Murthy sought to express that India’s youth has immense potential to drive the country’s growth story. This sentiment is also reflected in one of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s speeches - “The whole world is looking at India’s youth with hope because you are the growth engine of the country and India is the world’s growth engine.” However, India’s per capita productivity falls behind on the global scale, which is why Murthy proposed a solution, suggesting that until our young workforce achieves parity with its global translate into higher productivity. counterparts, it should consider extending its work hours to improve productivity. Undoubtedly, low productivity is a concern that requires attention. However, is working This necessitates the need to assess the 70 hours a week the solution to improving current state of employee productivity in productivity? India. According to a recent survey revealed by Statista in Aug 2023, a global data and business intelligence platform, a staggering 43 percent of employees in India spend most of their work hours being performative (appearing busy) rather than productive. India ranks first among the nine countries evaluated in this study, with Japan and Singapore following closely behind at 37 percent and 36 percent, respectively. This spotlights the need to enhance efficiency during our working hours. Murthy correctly emphasises the need for improvement in work productivity. In spite of working longer hours than the global average, India’s work productivity ranks among the lowest worldwide. This has been corroborated by various studies. According to The Lancet study, India’s ‘expected human capital’, indicating the number of years an individual can work at peak productivity, is one of the lowest. India ranks 158 out of 195 countries, indicating that Indians work at their peak productivity for only seven years, in contrast to the top-ranked Finland, where the figure is 28 years. In addition, the data compiled by Organisation of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) in 2015 revealed longer work hours don’t necessarily

According to a study conducted by ASSOCHAM, an alarming 42.5% of corporate employees in India exhibit symptoms of depression or general anxiety disorders. Furthermore, another report by ASSOCHAM disclosed that nearly 56% of corporate employees sleep less than 6 hours a day due to mounting stress levels. It is evident that we are functioning in a high-stress environment, dealing with the repercussions of the pandemic, economic recession, and periods of slowdown. As indicated by these findings, increasing the work hours will only complicate the issue further.

arrangements also save employees the precious time they would otherwise lose in commuting to the office. Employers must continue to prioritise the overall well-being of employees, promoting stress management programs, offering coaching services, and creating a supportive, inclusive work environment. Creating ergonomic and comfortable workspaces, both in physical offices and remote setups can contribute to employee well-being and productivity. Investing in comprehensive training and skill-based development programs like digital literacy can help improve on-the-job performance. By adopting this approach, organisations can enhance productivity without increasing working hours.

Streamlining administrative processes and reducing bureaucracy can save valuable Therefore, while focussing on enhancing time for both employees and organisations. productivity, there is merit in facilitating a Using cutting-edge technology such as AI balance between productivity and employee to simplify tasks and reduce paperwork can wellbeing. So, what strategies can we significantly boost productivity. employ to achieve this? For sustained national growth, the Flexible work arrangements can make emphasis should be on adopting measures a positive impact in managing work-life to enhance people’s productivity, rather while engaging the workforce to deliver than resorting to extended work hours. By agreed goals. This is amply corroborated promoting efficiency, embracing modern by a Gartner survey demonstrating a work practices, and supporting employee 44% reduction in worker fatigue, a 45% well-being, India can establish a balance increase in intent to stay, and a 28% boost that not only enriches its workforce but also in employee performance in human-centric fuels its economic prosperity. hybrid or remote work setups. These (IANSlife)

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G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

BUMBLE UNVEILS 2024 DATING TRENDS

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it’s time to get on your feet. Open-Hearted Masculinity: The year has been filled with global conversations about masculinity and gender roles in fashion, media, music, and film (ken-ergy, anyone?). When it comes to relationships, 1 in 4 (25%) men globally state that they have actively changed their behaviour, becoming more vulnerable and open with people they are dating than ever before. For a quarter of Indian men (26%), this new-found openness has had a positive impact on their mental health and for 37% of Indian men, a lack of vulnerability is now a dating dealbreaker. MVP (Most Valuable Partner): With a new wave of women tennis stars, a constant stream of sports documentaries, and a global competition next year, sports is set to take a front seat in dating - or maybe we’re just all after our own Taylor and Kelce love story? For 35% of single Indians, a shared love of sports has now become a ‘must have’ regardless of whether you’re a player or simply a spectator. Our obsession with sports is also changing how we date with 30% of single Indians stating that attending sports together is important, more so with Genz (33%) than Millennials (26%). Almost three-quarters (73%) of profiles on Bumble in India include a sports interest badge and the top athletics include cricket and football.

Bumble, the women-first dating app, releases its annual dating trends for 2024. The popular dating app has garnered insights from more than 25,000 singles on Bumble around the world to identify trends that will define dating and relationships in the year to come. Bumble’s 2023 trends focused on navigating love abroad with Wanderlove, dating beyond your type with Open-casting, and establishing new boundaries with our partners, our work lives, and our finances. Looking ahead, 2024 is set to be the year of “self” in dating and relationships with more people looking inwards at what they value and want.

voting is important to them. When it comes to dating, Bumble’s research shows that women are less open to someone with differing political views for 1 in 3 (33%) women globally it is a turn-off if someone they are dating is not aware of current societal issues. When it comes to dating, Bumble’s research shows that the most important social cause Indians want their partners to engage with is Human rights issues (64%). Research also shows for 38% of Indian women, it is important that a potential partner has a passion for the same values as them.

Betterment Burnout: From biohacking and starting your day at 5 a.m., to plugging into selfhelp podcasts, there has been a rise in people This personal prioritisation sees singles rejecting ‘self-optimising’ - striving to become a perfect the constant strive for perfection, discarding version of themselves. This has led the majority outdated timelines, challenging ‘jobification’, and of singles (55%) to feel pressure to constantly placing more value on emotional vulnerability, look for ways to better themselves, leaving 1 in self-acceptance, and shared priorities. 4 (24%) feeling unworthy of a partner. Looking ahead to 2024, singles are rebelling against the Heading into 2024, there is an air of optimism constant self-improvement with more than 2 in and clarity for the ‘year of self’ as Bumble’s 3 women surveyed (68%) globally taking active research shows that more than half (59%) of steps to be happier with who they are here and Indian women surveyed are going into the new now. In fact, 56% of Indian women will now only year with a clear view of what they want from date people who will not try to change them. their romantic lives. Intuitive Intimacy: For people today, and Bumble’s dating trend predictions include: particularly women, it seems attraction comes Val-Core Dating: Singles today are looking for down to one key thing: emotional intimacy. shared priorities and expect their partners to Singles are focused on finding security, safety, not only care about social causes but to actively and understanding, with more than a third engage. Val-Core refers to the rise of people (35%) of people surveyed on Bumble in India valuing engagement on issues that matter to believing that emotional intimacy is now more them. For 1 in 4 (25%) people on Bumble, it important than sex and that it’s actually more is key that their partner actively engages with attractive than physical connection. When it politics and social causes, in fact, it makes them comes to dating, 3 in 4 women (78%) say it’s more attractive. In fact, 41% of Indians say key that their partner has an understanding of their potential partner engaging in politics and both emotional and physical intimacy. In 2024,

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Consider-date: This year’s prioritisation of selfcare and mental health has led to more than half (58%) of singles being more open about their mental health and making a concerted effort to slow down. Single Indians are reframing how they date to better protect their mental health, with 1 in 3 (33%) actively ‘slow dating’ and being considerate about how much they are dating to ensure quality over quantity, even more so amongst women. In fact, 42% of Indian women are actively seeking people who value both time and self-care. This is bringing back a trend that Bumble identified in the pandemic, challenging the “job-ification” of love with 1 in 4 (25%) people in India actively deterred by anyone who treats a date as a checklist exercise. Samarpita Samaddar, Bumble’s India Communications Director said: “In 2023, we identified trends on travel romances, setting new boundaries, and dating outside your type. We know that cultural conversations around misogyny, women’s rights, and social issues, that are intertwined with our dating lives, left many exhausted this year. This has impacted the way people want to date - people are feeling more empowered in their sense of self and seeking out people who value what’s important to them, whether it’s social causes, lifestyle choices, or even their favourite sports. It’s exciting to see people are now increasingly looking inward and want to show up as authentic versions of themselves. We predict that 2024 will bring in a year of the self, with single Indians feeling more empowered than ever to prioritise what they value and what they will not stand for, leading to a new clarity about what they want in their romantic lives.” (IANSlife)

FEATURE

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

5 WAYS TO STAY TRUE TO YOUR WEIGHT LOSS JOURNEY

In today’s fast-paced world, where the demands of modern life take precedence over physical and mental health needs, it is crucial to emphasise the significance of prioritising a healthy lifestyle. However, the journey towards a healthier life poses a challenge for millions of individuals worldwide, largely due to concerns related to weight and obesity. The issue of obesity is undoubtedly multifaceted, with genetic and lifestyle factors contributing to its complexity.

importance of addressing obesity as a public health issue and the need for individuals to take control of their weight and health. A few ways which can help you to stay fit and lose weight are as below: Creating sustainable habits is the foundation for long-term success in weight management. Instead of chasing quick fixes, it is important that you prioritise health-conscious routines. Begin by adopting a balanced diet, incorporating regular physical activity, and mastering stress management. Keep in mind, that consistency is the secret to maintaining a healthy weight. Gradual lifestyle changes pave the way for lasting results.

The key to effectively addressing this challenge lies in adopting a positive, resolute approach and embracing a determined mindset. In the pursuit of a healthier life, it’s crucial to shift focus from short-term solutions and instead concentrate on achieving and Incorporating a healthy diet is crucial for sustaining long-term weight loss and improved managing weight effectively. Incorporating a fitness. well-balanced diet while avoiding processed foods and sugary drinks is vital for weight The World Health Organization (WHO) maintenance. Essential minerals such as Zinc reports that obesity rates have been steadily and Iron are crucial for antibody production increasing, leading to various health issues and a strong immune system. For those such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain struggling to maintain a nutritious diet due types of cancer. With one of the world’s to a busy lifestyle, convenient on-the-go fastest-rising obesity rates, India is fighting supplements like Vestige Veslim Shake can a constant health crisis. Moreover, the be a practical solution. Veslim Shakes are COVID-19 pandemic has also highlighted designed to aid weight management by the vulnerability of individuals with obesity to keeping individuals feeling full and reducing severe outcomes. junk food cravings. They come in flavours like mango and vanilla, ensuring taste without According to estimates, India has 135 million compromising on nutrition. obese people. A report published by the World Obesity Federation earlier this year highlights Prioritising adequate sleep is another crucial that the obesity risk in Indian women will aspect of a successful weight-loss journey. rise to 13 percent, and in men to 8 percent Quality sleep plays a significant role in by 2035. These statistics underscore the regulating hormones that control appetite

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and metabolism. Aim for 7-9 hours of restful sleep each night to support your weight management efforts. Poor sleep can lead to increased cravings for unhealthy foods and hinder your ability to make healthy choices during the day. Maintaining an active lifestyle is essential for successful weight management. Incorporating enjoyable activities such as walking, cycling, swimming, or dancing to burn calories, where consistency in routine takes precedence over intensity is always helpful. To stay motivated, reach out to friends, family, or professionals. One might also want to explore joining a weight loss group or consulting with a nutritionist or personal trainer. Keeping a journal can be a powerful tool for tracking progress and staying accountable. One can use a variety of health monitoring apps to track daily food intake, exercise habits, and physical and mental wellness. This can help identify patterns, triggers for overeating, and areas where adjustments are needed. Parallelly, it also serves as a source of motivation when you can see the positive changes you’ve made over time. Attaining your weight loss goals is more akin to a marathon, not a sprint, marked by steady and gradual advancement. Patience, consistency, and maintaining a positive mindset are the essential factors to achieving sustained success on this journey towards enhanced health. (IANSlife)

FEATURE

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

8 HEALTHY EATING HACKS FOR BUSY PROFESSIONALS

For busy professionals, juggling work responsibilities and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can often feel like an uphill battle. The demanding schedules, frequent meetings, and tight deadlines can make it challenging to prioritize nutritious eating. However, with the right strategies and a little planning, it’s possible to achieve a harmonious balance. Here, we’ll explore eight healthy eating hacks tailored by Dr. Rohini Patil, MBBS, Nutritionist, to the hectic lives of professionals, enabling them to stay energized and focused on their careers without compromising their well-being. Prioritize Meal Prep: Effective meal planning is the cornerstone of healthy eating for professionals. Allocate a portion of your weekly schedule to planning and prepping meals in advance. This could mean cooking in batches, portioning meals, or even just chopping veggies for easy access. Having healthy, ready-to-eat options readily available reduces the temptation to opt for fast food or unhealthy snacks. Pack Snacks Smartly: Busy workdays often include meetings and conference calls, leaving little time for full meals. Packing smart snacks like fresh fruit, nuts, Greek yogurt, protein bar or whole-grain crackers can help you stay nourished and focused during these hectic moments. These snacks provide a quick energy boost without the guilt.

Hydrate Mindfully: Staying hydrated is essential for overall well-being and productivity. Keep a reusable water bottle on your desk to encourage regular sips throughout the day. Explore herbal teas or infused water to enjoy additional flavor and potential benefits. Dehydration can sometimes be mistaken for hunger, so staying adequately hydrated can also help control unnecessary snacking.

crashes and maintain focus.

Choose Nutrient-Dense Foods: Incorporate foods that provide maximum nutrition in minimal calories. Opt for lean proteins, whole grains, and an abundance of vegetables in your meals. These foods offer essential vitamins and minerals to fuel your body and brain without causing energy slumps.

Allow Occasional Indulgence: Balancing a busy professional life with healthy eating doesn’t mean you can never indulge. Enjoy occasional treats or dine out with colleagues or friends. Allowing yourself these moments of enjoyment can help you stay motivated to maintain a nutritious diet in the long run.

Practice Mindful Eating: Amidst tight schedules, it’s common to eat on the go or in front of a computer screen. However, practicing mindful eating, which involves savoring your food and paying attention to your body’s hunger cues, can help you make better food choices and prevent overeating. Allocate a few minutes to step away from your desk and enjoy your meal mindfully.

Achieving a healthy work-life balance is vital for professionals, and nutrition plays a pivotal role in this equation. The eight healthy eating hacks discussed in this article are designed to empower busy individuals to make mindful food choices, improve overall well-being, and enhance their performance in the workplace. “Remember, a healthy diet isn’t a one-size-fits-all concept. Tailor these strategies suggested by Dr. Rohini Patil, MBBS, Nutritionist, to your unique schedule and dietary preferences. By integrating these practices into your daily routine, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: a thriving career and a well-nourished, energetic, and focused you. So, fuel your success with nutritious choices,” concludes Dr. Rohini Patil.

Limit Sugary and Caffeinated Beverages: The temptation to rely on sugary drinks and excessive caffeine can be strong, especially during long workdays. While an occasional coffee boost is fine, try to limit these beverages. Opt for herbal teas, water, or unsweetened options to prevent energy

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Office-Friendly Exercise: Integrate brief moments of physical activity into your workday. Simple stretches, a walk around the office, or even desk exercises can help you stay active and relieve stress. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle isn’t just about eating right; it’s also about staying active.

By N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe

TECH

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

4 IN 10 INDIAN SMARTPHONE USERS REGULARLY TRY PHOTO-EDITING APPS Around 42 per cent (more than four in 10) of smartphone users in India now utilise photo-editing app to brush up their digital presence, according to a new report. According to Statista’s consumer insights, the US is the top market for photo editing apps, with 43 per cent of smartphone users utilizing them regularly, followed by Japan and India with a 42 per cent share among respondents. The UK smartphone users were at the bottom on the list, with 30 per cent regularly using these apps. Over the past few years, photo editing apps have successfully climbed to the top of the market, standing side by side with basic apps like email, browsers, and messenger apps, according to data presented by OnlyAccounts.io. In 2019, FaceApp went viral after users across social media platforms shared pictures of their older or younger selves generated by the app. The photo editing app powered by artificial intelligence, Lensa AI, also had overnight success, reaching more than 19 million downloads in a single month after adding the Magic Avatars feature. Photo and video apps are among the most popular and highest-grossing app categories across the App Store and

Google Play Store.

revenue, respectively.

According to a Statista survey, smartphone users will spend roughly $12 billion on these apps by the end of 2023, or 20 per cent more than last year.

Statista also expects people worldwide to download 29.1 billion photo and video apps by the end of this year, three billion more than in 2022.

Half of the total revenue comes from in-app purchases. Advertising and paid apps follow with $3 billion and $2 billion in

By 2027, the entire market is expected to hit $16bn in revenue and more than 37 billion downloads. (ANI)

NEW WEARABLE ROBOT TO ASSIST PEOPLE WITH WALKING DIFFICULTIES Researchers have developed a new wearable robot that is designed to specifically assist people with difficulties in walking due to ageing, muscle weakness, surgeries or specific medical conditions.

“As we walk forward, our body’s center of mass naturally shifts side to side to maintain balance -- a process known as recovery. During this recovery phase, the hip abduction muscles are engaged. Our device assists these muscles, making it easier for the wearer to recover their center of mass with less effort,” Lee said.

The robot, described in a paper published in Science Robotics, was found to improve balance, while also reducing the energy spent while walking (i.e., the so-called metabolic cost). “Our recent paper was primarily inspired by the recognition that most wearable robots for gait assistance have focused solely on movements in the sagittal plane,” Giuk Lee, one of the researchers who carried out the study at Chung-Ang University in South Korea, told Tech Xplore. “However, walking is inherently a threedimensional activity, and movements in other planes are just as crucial,” Lee added.

Lee and his colleagues evaluated their robot’s performance in both simulations and real-world experiments. Unlike previous robotic systems for hip abduction assistance, the new robot focuses on the frontal plane -- known to support movements and lateral stability while walking.

The results of these tests were highly promising, showing that the robot reduced the metabolic cost of walking by 11.6 per cent compared to normal, unassisted walking, while also improving balance and stability.

It mimics the natural hip abduction movement -- of the leg away from the body’s midline, which supports walking and many other actions humans perform every day.

The robotic system can be improved further and eventually commercialised, supporting both rehabilitation and everyday use. (ANI)

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G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

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RESEARCHERS HARNESS AI TO MAP VISUAL FUNCTIONS IN BRAIN Researchers have harnessed the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to map visual functions in the brain, which they say will also remove biases that may arise when looking at responses.

The team at Weill Cornell Medicine demonstrated the use of AI-selected natural images and AI-generated synthetic images as neuroscientific tools for probing the visual processing areas of the brain. In the study, published in Communications Biology, they had volunteers look at images that had been selected or generated based on an AI model of the human visual system. The images were predicted to maximally activate several visual processing areas. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to record the brain activity of the volunteers, the researchers found that the images did activate the target areas significantly better than control images. The researchers also showed that they could use this image-response data to tune their vision model for individual volunteers so that images generated to be maximally activating for a particular individual worked better than images generated based on a general model. “We think this is a promising new approach to study the neuroscience of vision,” said Dr Amy Kuceyeski, a professor of mathematics in radiology and

of mathematics in neuroscience at the Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute at Weill. For the study, the team used an existing dataset comprising tens of thousands of natural images, with corresponding fMRI responses from human subjects, to train an AI-type system called an artificial neural network (ANN) to model the human brain’s visual processing system. They then used this model to predict which images, across the dataset, should maximally activate several targeted vision areas of the brain. They also coupled the model with an AI-based image generator to generate synthetic images to accomplish the same task.

“Our general idea here has been to map and model the visual system in a systematic, unbiased way, in principle even using images that a person normally wouldn’t encounter,” Kuceyeski said. The researchers enrolled six volunteers and recorded their fMRI responses to these images, focusing on the responses in several visual processing areas. The results showed that, for both the natural images and the synthetic images, the predicted maximal activator images, on average across the subjects, did activate the targeted brain regions significantly more than a set of images that were selected or generated to be only average activators. (IANS)

GOOGLE’S NEW AI EXPERIMENT LETS YOU CREATE MUSIC INSPIRED BY INSTRUMENTS Google’s new AI-powered experiment -- “Instrument Playground” lets you create music inspired by instruments from around the globe.

experiment. “Start your journey by discovering 10 lesser-known instruments from around the world and learn more about traditional instruments and music from India, Korea, Japan, or Brazil,” Google said.

Google will let you choose one of over 100 instruments from around the world you’d like to play -- for example, Veena from India or the Dizi from China or the Mbria from Zimbabwe, and MusicLM (a text-to-music AI tool) will generate a 20 second sound clip. “What’s more you can add an adjective to your prompt to shape the results such as ‘moody’, ‘happy’, or ‘romantic’. Or because it’s the season you could add the terms ‘merry’ or ‘joyful’ to compose a festive jingle,” Google said in a blogpost on Friday.

In May, Google released “MusicLM” -- a new experimental AI tool that can generate high-fidelity music in any genre given a text description. You can also modify several components of the composition like “Ambient,” “Beat,” and “Pitch,” making it more uniquely yours. Simon Doury, an Artist in Residence at Google Arts & Culture Lab, designed the

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The tool was first announced in January this year and is now available to the public. The text-to-music AI tool is available in the AI Test Kitchen app on the web, Android or iOS. (IANS)

RELATIONSHIPS

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

NEW MOMS & DADS INCREASINGLY TURN TO SOCIAL MEDIA FOR PARENTING ADVICE

New parents facing tough times to handle their newborns and toddlers with rocking them to sleep, feed and potty training, are increasingly turning to social media for help, according to a study. The study is based on a US national poll on responses from 614 parents with at least one child aged 0-4. It showed that four in five parents go to social media to discuss such parenting issues. Nearly half of parents rate social media as very useful for getting new ideas to try, according to the University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health. “Many parents turn to online communities to exchange advice or discuss parenting challenges because it may seem faster and easier than asking a health professional,” said Mott Poll co-director Sarah Clark. “Finding parent comradery in this space can have benefits but parents should keep in mind that every family’s experience is different and not everything they hear online may be accurate or the right thing for their child,” she added. Most mothers and over two-thirds of fathers of children these ages look to social media for parenting advice or to share their experiences. The most common discussions included toilet training (44 per cent), kids’ sleep (42 per cent) nutrition/breastfeeding (37 per

cent), discipline (37 per cent), behavior problems (33 per cent), vaccination (26 per cent), daycare/preschool (24 per cent), and getting along with other kids (21 per cent). Three fifths of parents said they talk about these topics on social media because they want to hear different ideas while one in four said it’s convenient or they want to do things differently than their parents. Fewer said they use these platforms because they don’t have family or friends nearby, don’t have enough opportunities to ask their child’s healthcare provider or are too embarrassed to ask in person. More than a third of parents also rate social media as very useful for making them feel like they’re not alone and learning what not to do while a fourth said it helps them decide whether to buy certain products. One in 10 parents of young children who use social media also described it as very useful in deciding when to take their child to the doctor. However, with young children, Clark noted, “it is usually prudent to contact the child’s primary care provider with any questions.” Telehealth visits and messaging through patient portals, she added, are efficient ways for parents to ask for guidance and determine if the child needs to be seen in person. Most parents also identify at least one aspect of social media sharing that

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concerns them, such as seeing other parents doing something unhealthy or dangerous for their child or others finding out their family’s private information or sharing photos of their child without their child’s permission. Nearly 80 per cent of parents also feel other parents overshare on social media by bragging about their child or sharing too often or too much. Meanwhile, over 60 per cent believe parents may give personal information that could identify the child’s location or embarrass the child when they’re older. Nearly half also said they have seen parents post information that is false while more than a quarter have noticed some parents sharing inappropriate photos of a child’s body. “Parents acknowledge concerns related to sharing too much about their kids on social media,” Clark said. “Families should consider whether their child may one day be embarrassed about having personal information shared without their consent; a good rule is if you have any doubt, don’t share it. In addition, parents should consult with parents of other children in photos for approval before sharing them on social media.” (IANSlife)

LIFESTYLE

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

BUSINESS ANALYSTS, ACCOUNTANTS, PSYCHOLOGISTS MOST LIKELY TO LOSE JOB DUE TO AI Professional occupations, particularly those connected with more clerical work and across finance, legal, and business management roles, are most likely to be impacted by artificial intelligence (AI) and large language models, a new report has revealed. According to the list compiled by the UK Department of Education, management consultants and business analysts, accountants, and psychologists as well as teaching occupations, showed higher exposure to AI, where the application of large language models is particularly relevant.

likely to be replaced by AI, with economists and statisticians ranking sixth on the list. A wide range of jobs involving finance and investment analysts, legal professionals and even “business and associated associate” supporting roles made the list at eighth, ninth and tenth places, respectively.

The other sectors most exposed to AI are information & communication, professional, scientific & technical, property, public administration & defence, and education, the report noted.

analysed 365 distinct professions and their respective occupational and worker characteristics and compared them to 10 of the most prominent AI applications to determine whether the roles may be automated by AI. “The occupations most exposed to AI include more professional occupations, particularly those associated with more clerical work and across finance, law and business management roles,” the Education Department said.

The government agency stated that it employed a methodology that

Professionals working as purchasing managers and directors were the fifth most

The finance & insurance sector is more exposed to AI than any other sector.

According to the report, education advisers, human resource administrators, bookkeepers, and payroll managers, as well as administrative government officials and marketing associates, are among the top 10 to 20 occupations most vulnerable to AI takeover. To reach its results, the UK Department of Education stated that it examined generative AI models such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Bard, as well as other large language models, talk-to-text applications, and image recognition AI. (ANI)

WORKAHOLICS FEEL WORSE EVEN WHILE WORKING

Workaholics are more likely than others to feel sick even when engaged in work they are most passionate about, finds a study.

workaholics may indicate elevated daily stress levels and that could be the cause of the higher risk for these individuals to develop burnout and cardiovascular problems,” he added.

The study led by a team of Italian researchers from universities of Trento and Bologna involved 139 full-time workers, mostly employed in back-office activities.

In addition, the results demonstrated that, unlike other workers, workaholics, on average, consistently maintain a more negative mood throughout the day, with no significant variations attributed to the passage of time or fluctuations in workload.

A psychological test was first used to assess the participants’ level of work dependency. Afterward, the scholars analysed the mood of the workers and their perception of workload using a technique known as the “experience sampling method”. Their results, published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, showed that most workaholic workers have, on average, a worse mood than the others. The researchers said that contrary to popular notion, people who are addicted to work do not derive more pleasure from their work activity. Workaholism also shares similarities with other addictions, such as gambling or alcoholism. “The results seem to confirm that, as in

other forms of behavioural and substance addiction, the initial euphoria gives way to a negative emotional state that pervades the person even while at work,” said Cristian Balducci, a professor at the Department for Life Quality Studies at the University of Bologna (Rimini Campus). “The negative mood observed in

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The relationship between work addiction and bad mood was, in fact, more pronounced in women than in men, indicating a greater vulnerability of women to workaholism. Researchers suggest that this phenomenon may depend on an increased role conflict experienced by workaholic women, caught between the internal tendency to over-invest in their work and the external pressures stemming from gender expectations still deeply rooted in our culture. “Furthermore, considering that workaholics often hold positions of responsibility, their negative mood could readily influence that of colleagues and co-workers. This poses a risk that organisations should seriously consider, intervening to discourage behaviours that contribute to workaholism,” added Balducci.

(ANI)

HEALTH

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

A BOWL OF YOGHURT DAILY MAY HELP BOOST MENTAL HEALTH

Yoghurt is not only good for your gut, but could lift your mood as well, according to a study. Researchers at the University of Virginia School of Medicine have discovered how Lactobacillus, a bacterium found in fermented foods and yoghurt, helps the body manage stress and may help prevent depression and anxiety. The study, published in the journal Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, opens the door to new therapies to treat anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions. The discovery is notable because it pinpoints the role of Lactobacillus, separating it from all the other microorganisms that naturally live in and on our bodies, said Alban Gaultier, researcher at the varsity. “Our discovery illuminates how gutresident Lactobacillus influences mood disorders, by tuning the immune system,” said Gaultier, from the varsity’s Department of Neuroscience. “Our research could pave the way toward discovering much-needed

therapeutics for anxiety and depression.” The team took an innovative approach to focus on Lactobacilli in specific. Prior research from Gaultier’s lab suggested that the bacteria could reverse depression in lab mice -- a hugely promising finding. But the researchers needed to understand how. “We were aware from our prior research that Lactobacillus was beneficial in improving mood disorders and was lost following psychological stress, but the underlying reasons remained unclear, primarily due to the technical challenges associated with studying the microbiome.” Gaultier and his team decided to continue their depression research using a collection of bacteria, known as “Altered Schaedler Flora,” which includes two strains of Lactobacillus and six other bacterial strains. With this rarely used bacterial

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community, the team was able to create mice both with and without Lactobacillus, circumventing the need for antibiotics. The results explain exactly how Lactobacilli influences behaviour, and how a lack of the bacteria can worsen depression and anxiety. Lactobacilli in the family Lactobaccillacea maintain the levels of an immune mediator called interferon gamma that regulates the body’s response to stress and helps stave off depression. “With these results in hand, we have new tools to optimise the development of probiotics, which should speed up discoveries for novel therapies,” researcher Andrea R. Merchak said. “Most importantly, we can now explore how maintaining a healthy level of Lactobacillus and/or interferon gamma could be investigated to prevent and treat anxiety and depression.” (IANS)

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

How beer may help protect How Can Noise people against Cancellation Headphones Alzheimer’s Help You Get Good Teeth? disease D Health tip:

Have a cut or burn? Sprinkle turmeric powder on the affected area to speed up the healing process

oes the noise of drills at the dentist’s make you run for life? You are not alone. The noise of dental drills cutting deep into your teeth is so scary people often avoid going to the dentist because of it. But what suffers the most from this dislike is your dental health. And you cannot compromise your dental health.

Certain compounds found in beer hops, the source of bitterness, aroma, and flavour in beer, can even help protect against Alzheimer’s disease (AD), researchers have revealed. Research published in the journal ACS Chemical Neuroscience reports that chemicals extracted from hop flowers can, in lab dishes, inhibit the clumping of amyloid beta proteins, which is associated with Alzheimer’s. ‘Nutraceuticals’ or foods that have some type of medicinal or nutritional function are the key. The hop flowers used to flavour beers have been explored as one of these potential nutraceuticals, with previous studies suggesting that the plant could interfere with the accumulation of amyloid beta proteins associated with Alzheimer’s. To identify these compounds, Cristina Airoldi Alessandro Palmioli and team created characterised extracts of four common varieties of hops using a method similar to that used in the brewing process. In tests, they found that the extracts had antioxidant properties and could prevent amyloid beta proteins from clumping in human nerve cells. The most successful extract was from the Tettnang hop, found in many types of lagers and lighter ales. When that extract was

separated into fractions, the one containing a high level of polyphenols showed the most potent antibiotic and aggregation-inhibiting activity. It also promoted processes that allow the body to clear out misfolded, neurotoxic proteins. Finally, the team tested the Tettnang extract in a C. elegans model and found that it protected the worms from Alzheimer’srelated paralysis, though the effect was not very pronounced. The researchers say that although this work may not justify drinking more bitter brews, it shows that hop compounds could serve as the basis for nutraceuticals that combat the development of Alzheimer’s. AD is a debilitating neurodegenerative disease, often marked by memory loss and personality changes in older adults. Part of the difficulty in treating the disease is the time lag between the start of underlying biochemical processes and the onset of symptoms, with several years separating them. This means that irreversible damage to the nervous system occurs before one even realises, they may have the disease.

To solve this issue, we, at Healthy Smiles Dental Group have introduced noise cancellation headphones at our clinic. Our principal dentist, Dr Ved Berani, says, “Noise cancellation headphones are becoming very popular these days. You can see hordes of people syncing to their favourite rhythms without disturbing others. So, we thought, why not use them for dentistry and provide comfort to our patients suffering from dental anxiety due to dental drilling noise. And it is working just fine. We treat many of our patients while they are using these headphones. Our greatest joy comes when we see them smiling carefree.” Noise cancellation headphones have positively comforted anxious dental patients. Let us learn more about how these noise cancellation headphones prove beneficial to the patients: 1. Music can uplift your mood faster As we all know this proven fact, music is one of the best remedies when it comes to uplifting spirits. No matter how stressed a person is, good music can soothe all the lines on the forehead. When it comes to dental patients who are anxious about their dental treatment, we use the same concept. Our Healthy Smiles clinic provides Spotify streaming in all rooms. You need to select your favourite genre and tune in while we operate on your teeth. Patients have had a great experience with noise cancellation headphones.

(IANS)

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2. It works to distract you from worries Patients suffering from dental anxiety have all kinds of worries and troubling thoughts about a dental procedure. But when we explain the whole dental process in advance, it helps them feel in control of their surroundings with the knowledge of the proceedings in advance. And the noise cancellation headphones add to this comfort. They distract the patients from whatever that is left of the worries. Patients can relax throughout the whole dental procedure. 3. You can also watch a show of your choice on our screen These noise cancellation headphones can also be synced with a TV screen on the ceiling. You can watch a TV show while our dentists work on your teeth. When the patients are relaxed, our dentists can also concentrate more on the treatment. The aim behind using noise cancellation headphones for dentistry is to provide patients with a comfortable dental care experience. Our dentists enthusiastically work towards providing the best dental treatments using state-of-the-art technology so that you can leave all your anxieties behind and walk out with a confident smile. Do not neglect to look after your teeth and oral health because a lot of health issues can stem from oral health conditions. Contact us today to make use of this new method of cancelling out the drill noise and pay your teeth all the attention they need.

Dr Ved Berani BDS(Mum), ADEC(Aust), MBA(Melb), FIADFE, MFGDP(UK) Principal Dentist & Clinical Advisor Healthy Smiles Dental Group 150-152 Canterbury Rd, Blackburn South VIC 3130 Call us: (03) 9877 2035 www.healthysmiles.com.au

HEALTH

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

Walking faster may significantly lower Type 2 diabetes risk Walking at a speed of 4 or more km an hour is linked to a significantly lower risk of Type 2 diabetes, suggests a study.

with a 24 per cent lower risk of Type 2 diabetes compared with strolling. Brisk walking or striding at a speed above 4 miles or 6 km/hour was associated with a reduced risk of around 39 per cent, equal to 2.24 fewer cases of Type 2 diabetes in every 100 people.

And the faster the speed above 4 km/hour, the lower the risk seems to be, with every 1 km increase in speed associated with a 9 per cent reduction in risk, suggest the findings published online in the British Journal of Sports Medicine. The global number of adults with Type 2 diabetes is currently 537 million, but is expected to reach 783 million by 2045, so a simple and inexpensive physical activity that is also associated with several other social, mental, and physical health benefits, might be an easy way of helping to stave off the disease, said the researchers from Semnan University of Medical Sciences in Iran. The study is based on an analysis of 10 long term studies published between 1999 and 2022. These included monitoring periods ranging from 3 to 11 years for a total of 508,121 adults from the US, Japan, and the UK. Compared with strolling at less than 2

Every 1 km/hour increase in walking speed was associated with a 9 per cent lower risk of type 2 diabetes, with the minimal threshold of 4km/hour equal to 87 steps/min for men and 100 steps/min for women, the findings suggest.

miles or 3 km/hour, an average or normal walking speed of 2-3 miles or 3-5 km/hour was associated with a 15 per cent lower risk of Type 2 diabetes, irrespective of the time spent walking. Similarly, fairly brisk walking at a speed of 3-4 miles/hour or 5-6 km/hour was associated

“The present meta-analysis of cohort studies suggests that fairly brisk and brisk/striding walking, independent of the total volume of physical activity or time spent walking per day, may be associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes in adults,” said the researchers. “While current strategies to increase total walking time are beneficial, it may also be reasonable to encourage people to walk at faster speeds to further increase the health benefits of walking,” they added. (IANS)

Eating beef, dairy can boost immune system to fight cancer Turns out eating beef and dairy may bolster your body’s immune response against cancer, according to a study.

They screened the compounds in this new library for their ability to influence anti-tumour immunity by activating CD8+ T cells, a group of immune cells critical for killing cancerous or virally infected cells.

Trans-vaccenic acid (TVA), a long-chain fatty acid found in meat and dairy products from grazing animals such as cows and sheep, improves the ability of CD8+ T cells to infiltrate tumours and kill cancer cells, revealed the study by researchers from the University of Chicago.

After the scientists evaluated the top six candidates in both human and mouse cells, they saw that TVA performed the best. TVA is the most abundant trans fatty acid present in human milk, but the body cannot produce it on its own.

The study, published in the journal Nature, also shows that patients with higher levels of TVA circulating in the blood responded better to immunotherapy, suggesting that it could have potential as a nutritional supplement to complement clinical treatments for cancer.

Only about 20 per cent of TVA is broken that actually enhances anti-tumor immunity down into other byproducts, leaving 80 per cent circulating in the blood. “That means by activating an important immune there must be something else it does, so pathway,” Chen added. we started working on it more,” Chen said. However, Chen cautioned that there He noted that the study also indicates is a growing body of evidence about the “There are many studies trying to that nutrient supplements such as TVA detrimental health effects of consuming decipher the link between diet and human too much red meat and dairy, so this study could be used to promote T cell activity. health, and it’s very difficult to understand shouldn’t be taken as an excuse to eat the underlying mechanisms because of the more cheeseburgers and pizza. “There is early data showing that other wide variety of foods people eat. But if we fatty acids from plants signal through a focus on just the nutrients and metabolites similar receptor, so we believe there is a For the new study, the team started derived from food, we begin to see how high possibility that nutrients from plants with a database of around 700 known they influence physiology and pathology,” can do the same thing,” Chen said. metabolites that come from food and said Jing Chen, Professor of Medicine at assembled a “blood nutrient” compound University of Chicago in the US. library consisting of 235 bioactive molecules derived from nutrients. “By focusing on nutrients that can (IANS) activate T cell responses, we found one

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G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

Gargling with salt water may help prevent Covid hospitalisation In an interesting study, researchers have confirmed that the common remedy of gargling with salt water may help improve respiratory symptoms and fight Covid, helping lower hospitalisation rates. The study being presented at this year’s American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) Annual Scientific Meeting held in California determined that both a low and high-dose saline regimen appeared to be associated with lower hospitalisation rates compared to controls in SARS-CoV-2 infections. The team at the University of Texas between 2020 and 2022 randomly selected 58 individuals aged 18-65 years with positive PCR test for SARS-CoV-2 infection to undergo low or high-dose saline regimens for 14 days.

The new study supports evidence from previous small studies that suggest that saline irrigation of the mouth and nose can reduce Covid viral load, helping remove it from the throat and nasal passages. While infectious-disease experts have lauded the findings, they said it warrants more research and stressed that gargling and nasal washing should never be used as a substitute for vaccination or treatment with medications.

and high-saline regimens.

They were compared with a reference group of 9,398 people, who also had Covid but hadn’t been instructed to gargle or rinse nasal passages.

“Our goal was to examine saline nasal irrigation and gargling for possible association to improved respiratory symptoms associated with coronavirus infection,” says Jimmy Espinoza, from the varsity.

The hospitalisation rates in the low- (18.5 per cent) and high- (21.4 per cent) saline regimens were significantly lower than in the reference population (58.8 per cent). There was no difference in hospitalisation rates in the low

“We found that both saline regimens appear to be associated with lower hospitalisation rates compared to controls in SARS-CoV-2 infections. We hope more studies can be done to further investigate the association,” he added.

“It’s an interesting concept and idea, and a potential adjunct preventative along with other non-pharmaceutical interventions,” Peter Hotez, dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine not involved in the research, was quoted as saying to Washington Post. “However, gargling with salt water should still be considered secondary relative to the importance of having high or adequate levels of virus-neutralising antibodies from covid vaccinations,” he said.

(IANS)

Lack of sleep increases diabetes risk in women

Women, especially those after menopause, not sleeping adequately may be at risk of diabetes, according to a study.

a half, shortening their total sleep time to around six hours. Each of these phases lasted for six weeks.

The findings led by Columbia University researchers found that sleep loss of 90 minutes for six weeks increased fasting insulin levels by over 12 per cent overall.

Insulin resistance increased by nearly 15 per cent overall and by more than 20 per cent among postmenopausal women. Average blood sugar levels remained stable for all participants throughout the study.

The effect was even more pronounced in postmenopausal women -- more than 15 per cent. The recommended amount of sleep for optimal health is between seven and nine hours per night. The study, published in the journal Diabetes Care, is the first to show that a mild sleep deficit, maintained for six weeks, causes changes in the body that raises the risk of developing diabetes in women. Poor sleep is known to have a greater impact on women’s cardiometabolic health than men’s. “Throughout their lifespan, women face many changes in their sleep habits due to childbearing, child-rearing, and menopause,” said Marie-Pierre St-Onge, Associate Professor of nutritional medicine at the

varsity’s Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons. “And more women than men have the perception they aren’t getting enough sleep.”

“Over a longer period of time, ongoing stress on insulin-producing cells could cause them to fail, eventually leading to type 2 diabetes,” St-Onge said. Although increased abdominal fat is a key driver of insulin resistance, the researchers found that the effects of sleep loss on insulin resistance were not due to increases in fat.

For the study, the researchers enrolled 38 healthy women, including 11 postmenopausal “The fact that we saw these results women, who routinely slept at least seven independent of any changes in body fat, hours each night. which is a known risk factor for type 2 diabetes, speaks to the impact of mild sleep In the study, the participants underwent reduction on insulin-producing cells and two study phases in random order. In one metabolism,” St-Onge said. phase, they were asked to maintain their adequate sleep; in the other, they were (IANS) asked to delay their bedtime for an hour and

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G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

BIG B HAS CLEANED KITCHEN UTENSILS AND BATHROOM SINK... SEVERAL TIMES! Veteran Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan, who hosts the quiz-based reality show ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati 15’, has shared that he has done many household chores, contrary to the public perception of him not getting involved in

house chores because of his status as a megastar. The ‘Don’ actor was talking to contestant Harsh Shah on ‘KBC 15’. Harsh spoke about his business as he said: “I

handle my father’s business. We have a manufacturing unit of plastic monofilament yarns. These threads are used in making the cleaning scrubs. Sir, have you ever cleaned utensils?” Big B replied: “Haan sir, kayi baar bartan saaf kiya hai, kitchen ka chilamchii saaf kiya hai, bathroom me jo basin hota hai, use saaf kiya. Aisa kyu lagta hai ki humne na kiya hoga (Yes, sir. I have cleaned utensils several times, even the bathroom sink. Why do you think I have never done these things)?” The 68th episode aired on November 15. During the episode, the second round of Fastest Finger First was won by Harsh Shah from Bhavnagar, Gujarat. He took the hot seat and told Big B: “My mother wanted me to participate in KBC, and I have finally fulfilled her wish. I had to leave state civil services to handle my father’s business as my dad had heart surgery. I had to take up the responsibilities over my dreams.” (ANI)

THE WORLD IS TILTING TOWARDS TALENT AND SCRIPTS, KRITI SANON Kriti Sanon is riding the crest of the wave, thanks to her recent National Award win for best actress. In an introspective mood, she lets fashion glossy Vogue India in on how an engineering graduate without industry connections got here, where she hopes to see herself five years from now and why she’s probably going to need another National Awardwin to raise her manifestation game. Sanon on how the Bollywood industry can become more accessible for outsiders, “The industry can become more accessible for outsiders if we start creating equal opportunities—if you’re launching someone from the industry, make sure you’re also giving space to someone who doesn’t belong but is probably more talented. Slowly, very slowly, the world is tilting towards talent and scripts rather than stars and big names.” On what’s next for her, Sanon says, “I’ve

realised that if I desperately chase a particular milestone, it just doesn’t happen. Maybe five years from now I will have bought a house for my parents, as my mother’s deepest desire is to have chai in the garden every day. Hopefully, I will also be waking up to sunlight, cuddles from my puppies…and perhaps even someone special.” On understanding what she seeks in a partner and finding someone who pays attention to the little things, she says, “I have a real mama bear instinct for looking after the people I love. Something as insignificant as carrying a jacket while going to the movies in case I feel cold or thoughtfully ordering food when I come back home after working late can make a relationship feel so meaningful.”

seen a lot of videos on vision boards and on manifesting that say that if you believe something can happen, it will. But with me, I’ve

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(IANS)

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

MOUNI ROY CALLS EVERY STEP OF HER JOURNEY TO STARDOM ‘A LEARNING EXPERIENCE’ Actress Mouni Roy has carved quite a niche in the world of entertainment. From humble beginnings to rising on her own merit to being praised for her performance in ‘Sultan of Delhi’, Mouni has called every single step of her journey to stardom a learning experience. Reflecting on her journey to getting where she is now, the ‘Brahmastra’ actress said: “Every step of this journey has been a learning experience, full of love and support. I am overwhelmed by the affection and am deeply grateful. Here’s to continuing this beautiful journey together!”

Essaying the role of Nayantara Gangopadhyay, the actress has received a lot of praise for her performance in the crime-thriller series, despite the show itself not being too well-received. On the screen, Mouni Roy will next be seen in ‘The Virgin Tree’ which is currently under production. Apart from that, she is also a judge in the Bengali-language reality show ‘Dance Bangla Dance 12’, and the host of the reality-TV show ‘Temptation Island India’. (IANS)

“I DECIDED TO GO TO DELHI THAT TIME THAT TOO TO DO THEATRE”: MANOJ BAJPAYEE GETS CANDID ABOUT HIS ACTING JOURNEY Actor Manoj Bajpayee opened up about his acting journey and how his two performances competed with one another for the Filmfare OTT Awards 2023. Manoj expressed his thoughts on how he prepared himself to be an actor. He said, “I left my village at the age of 18 and the journey is never easy for anyone. But I believe that I am lucky with the work I have done. One crucial aspect of my profession is that I am always grateful for my decision not to directly go to Mumbai. I decided that time that I would do theatre, prepare myself, and then maybe I would think about Mumbai. Everyone thinks of becoming an actor and reaches Mumbai but I had reached Delhi and that too to do theatre.” Elaborating on his two movies which were nominated against each other for the Filmfare OTT Awards 2023, Manoj said, Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai is continuously bringing respect to us. Not only that film but also ‘Gulmohar,’ and both films received Filmfare nominations. Both films were nominated in the same category. My two performances were cooperating. What could be more significant than this?” Talking about the latest trends and his dancing in the movies, Manoj said, “I am a desi man and do desi dance. You see other people dancing on Instagram. Boys and girls dance on Instagram. I

a never-before-seen rustic avatar of Manoj Bajpayee, portraying a father on the run, navigating through life’s challenges with a baby strapped to him. Director Devashish Makhija weaves a tale of an outcast fighting for survival, promising to leave viewers on the edge of their seats. ‘ Joram’ is a collaboration between Zee Studios and Makhijafilm, marking a milestone in impactful storytelling. The gripping trailer is now available for viewing, offering a glimpse into the intense and suspenseful world of Joram.

can’t do that. I can’t do the one-to-three dance.” When asked about how OTT platform is different from cinema, he said, “OTT is another added medium and because of that a lot of work is being generated for every good actor, for every good director, for every good editor, for every cinematographer. So, this is a good time.” Manoj is all set to come up with a thriller drama film ‘Joram.’ Earlier, Manoj treated fans with the trailer on Instagram and captioned it, “Running from danger, Dasru holds his baby close, facing the ultimate question: Survive or confront the approaching end? #Joram trailer is out now! In cinemas worldwide on 8 December.” The trailer introduces audiences to

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It is directed, written, and crafted by Devashish Makhija and produced by Shariq Patel, Ashima Avasthi Chaudhuri, Anupama Bose, and Devashish Makhija. The film stars Manoj Bajpayee and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, under the cinematic vision of Piyush Puty and the editing of Abhro Banerjee. The music is composed by Mangesh Dhakde. A collaborative effort between Zee Studios and MakhijaFilm, ‘Joram’ is set to release on December 8. When asked about his upcoming work apart from Joram, he said, “A show is coming on Netflix on 11 January. ‘Killer Soup by Abhishek Chaubey, a renowned director. After Family Man, I have not done any series, so this will be my second series.” By Surabhi Gupta

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

RANBIR KAPOOR-STARRER ‘ANIMAL’ DOMINATES GLOBAL BOX-OFFICE

PARINEETI CHOPRA GAINED 15 KG FOR HER ROLE

Actor Parineeti Chopra revealed that she gained 15 kg for her role in Imtiaz Ali’s film ‘Chamkila’. And now, to shed those extra kilos, she has resumed working out. On Instagram, Parineeti shared a short video of herself working out at the gym. In the post’s caption, she shared that she spent six months last year singing in AR Rahman’s studio and then eating junk food, so she could put on 15 kg for the film. “I spent 6 months last year singing in Rahman sir’s studio, and going back home to eat as much junk as I possibly could to put on 15 KILOS for Chamkila! (Coming soon on Netflix) Music and Food. That was my routine,” she wrote.

Bollywood star Ranbir Kapoor’s recently released film ‘Animal’, directed by Sandeep Vanga Reddy, has not just set the Indian box-office on fire but has also emerged as the Number 1 film globally surpassing the likes of ‘Napoleon’ and ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’ with $42.1 million, according to data published by ComScore. The film, which is gore galore and credits Ranbir as a superstar, features Ranbir in dual roles. It released across 38 global territories. The worldwide gross total includes $6.1 million in North America where it was released across 850 locations and opened at Number 7, reports Variety. In ‘Animal’, Ranbir Kapoor plays the son of India’s richest man (portrayed by Anil Kapoor) who takes on an antagonist played by Bobby Deol. The cast also includes Rashmika Mandanna. Like Reddy’s previous films, the Telugu-language ‘Arjun Reddy’ (2017) and its Hindi-language remake ‘Kabir Singh’ (2019), ‘Animal’ is a study of toxic masculinity. As per Variety, in second position,

Ridley Scott’s Apple Original Filmsproduced and Sony Pictures-distributed action epic ‘Napoleon’ collected $35.7 million worldwide, including $28.6 million internationally. It now has a global total of $137 million. ‘Napoleon’ is playing on more than 21,500 screens in 63 markets. The key market still to release is South Korea, where it releases on December 6. In third place, Lionsgate’s ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’ grossed an estimated $29.4 million globally from 88 territories over the weekend, taking its international total to $123 million and the global gross to $244 million. In fourth position, ‘Renaissance’, a concert film written, directed and produced by Beyonce, earned $27.4 million, including $6.4 million internationally and $21 million in North America where it opened as the No. 1 title. The film is playing in 88 territories. Rounding off the top five was Disney’s ‘Wish’ with $26.2 million from 34 territories, including $18.8 million internationally and $7.4 million in North America for a global gross of $81.5 million.

(ANI)

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“Now that the film is done, the story is the opposite. I miss the studio, and work in the gym trying to look like myself again. And not like Amarjot ji! It’s been hard. But anything for you Imtiaz sir! And this role,” Parineeti added. Speaking of ‘Chamkila’, the film also stars Diljit Dosanjh in the lead role. The film presents the untold true story of Punjab’s original rockstar of the masses, Amar Singh Chamkila who emerged from the shadows of poverty and rose to the heights of popularity in the 80s due to the sheer power of his music, angering many along the way, which finally led to his assassination at the young age of 27. The highest-selling artist of his time, Chamkila is still regarded as one of the best live-stage performers that Punjab has ever produced. Sharing her experience working in the film, Parineeti earlier said, “It is a privilege to play Amarjot, Chamkila’s singing partner and wife, in this incredible film and I am truly grateful to Imtiaz sir for this opportunity. Sharing the screen with Diljit has been an immensely enriching experience. For me, singing is a passion and to collaborate with the legendary AR Rahman has been a long-awaited dream. With Netflix’s global platform, I believe our film will touch hearts far and wide, allowing Chamkila’s inspiring tale to resonate with fans worldwide.”

(ANI)

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

ALWAYS TRIED TO PORTRAY WOMEN AS STRONG CHARACTERS, SAYS RANI MUKERJI Noted actor Rani Mukerji, while interacting with IFFI delegates, on Sunday said that she always tried to portray Indian women as strong characters in her films. Emphasizing the importance of commitment to one’s craft, the accomplished actress asserted that it is important to always stand by strong films and roles. “Sometimes you might not get the audience’s approval at that period of time. But in the history of cinema, such films and characters will find a place,” she said. Reflecting on her cinematic journey, Rani said that she always tried to portray Indian women as strong characters. “Outside India, films and their characters are viewed as windows towards our Indian culture,” she added. Rani Mukerji also highlighted the significance of versatility for an actor. Elaborating on its significance, she said, “If an actor is versatile, they can portray different facets of life. The more diverse I can make my characters, it will be more interesting for the audience and me. This diversity in characters also inspires me.”

Sharing her personal reflection, Rani remarked, “I don’t give much importance to the age factor and tried to do justice to my characters. Fifty percent of your battle of making people believe in the character is won if you look like the character.” Delving into the intricacies of character

portrayal, Rani shared, “For doing particular roles, actors often meet real-life people to get their physical characteristics right. But it is also important to know what all emotions they are going through. What distinguishes a scene in a film is the emotions behind the scenes. It is important to portray the emotions for it to reach the audience’s heart.” (IANS)

RANDEEP HOODA, WIFE LIN LAISHRAM MAKE 1ST PUBLIC APPEARANCE IN MUMBAI AFTER WEDDING Bollywood actor Randeep Hooda and Lin Laishram, who tied the nuptial knot in Imphal, Manipur on November 29, returned to Mumbai and made their first public appearance at the Mumbai airport. While Randeep wore a simple all-white outfit, his wife, Lin looked beautiful in a red traditional salwar suit. They held hands as they posed for the paparazzi at Mumbai airport and walked towards their car. The couple looked happy and all smiles as they posed for the cameras. The two got married in an intimate ceremony as per the Meitei traditions in the presence of family members and a few friends. Ahead of the wedding, Randeep had expressed his excitement at getting married in Laishram’s Meitei traditions. The couple took their wedding vows in the Shannapung resort. Randeep performed the rituals wearing a white kurta-pyjama as his wife Lin looked dazzling pretty in a white and pink saree paired with a black blouse. She completed her look with gorgeous gold jewellery. Randeep and Lin were in a relationship for a long time. Lin has been a part of films such as ‘Mary Kom’, ‘Rangoon’ and recently in

‘Jaane Jaan’. Randeep was last seen in ‘Sergeant’. His upcoming film is ‘Swatantrya Veer Savarkar’, which also marks his directorial debut. Earlier, Randeep and Lin had announced their marriage on Instagram, saying: “Taking a leaf out of the Mahabharata where Arjuna married Manipuri Warrior Princess Chitrangada, we

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are getting married with the blessings of our families and friends. As we embark on this journey, we seek your blessings and love for this union of cultures, for which we are forever indebted and grateful,” Randeep had also shared that a reception will take place at a later date in Mumbai. (IANS)

FOOD

bon appétit

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

Did you know:

Pour yourself a tall glass of pomegranate juice to keep heart disease at bay

WHAT IS INDIA COOKING AT HOME? The Indian kitchen is no longer a place for monotony and humdrum- it’s a vibrant space where memories are made. The trifecta of aesthetics, health & experimentation are making their presence felt in kitchens in notable ways - right from the appliances being picked to the kinds of cuisines being cooked at home. Our Food Trends Report, compiled from data collected across 3000+ households and over 15,000 + cooking sessions using delishUp in 11 cities, reveals the delightful evolution of Indian home cooking. The Aspiration for Nutritious Home Cooking In an era, where being health-conscious is on the rise, it’s interesting to see the aspirations and realities of nutritious cooking at home. While 40 percent of owners want to adopt healthier eating habits, data reveals that less than 10 percent consistently do so every day. This highlights the eternal tug-of-war between aspiration and reality, as comfort food often precedes healthy eating. Cross-Cultural Culinary Adventures The kitchen has become a place where regional boundaries blur. The data defies stereotypes, as chapati dough, a staple of North Indian cuisine, is now regularly prepared in Southern India, using AIassisted cooking devices, constituting 3.5 percent of meals made. Similarly, North and West India owners are increasingly

embracing South Indian delicacies, including Upma, Lemon Rice, Bangalorestyle Sambar, and Cabbage Pachadi. Likewise, in the South, more people are cooking dishes like Gujarati Kadhi, Mumbaistyle Pav Bhaji, Rice Kheer, and Surti Cold Coco, among others. This cross-regional interest reveals the ease with which AIassisted cooking devices facilitate culinary exploration. Restaurant-Style Dining at Home Recreating restaurant-style meals at home is a prominent trend. Nearly 500 owners expressed enthusiasm for replicating their favourite restaurant meals at home. And this trend holds true irrespective of cuisine - 40 percent are recreating Indian cuisines, 20 percent opting for Continental, and another 20% experimenting with Italian. This not only aligns with the desire for healthier eating but also showcases the evolving palate of Indian households eager to transform “outside food” into homemade delights. Innovative Culinary Experiments Owners are trying to recreate what they see on TV, online and from their travels at home - Butterbeer from Harry Potter, Horchata from Spain, Mexico’s Michelada and more. Unconventional dishes like Bread Paneer Poha, Beetroot Rasam, Roti nu Shaak, Beetroot Halwa, and Chicken Tagine are now making their way to the dinner table. This signals a growing willingness to embrace diverse flavours and experiment at

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home, made possible through AI-assisted cooking devices. Classics Remain Classics Amid culinary exploration, the classics continue to reign supreme. Beloved dishes such as Butter Chicken, Poha and street food favourites like Pav Bhaji and Bhel remain consistent choices in Indian home kitchens. Traditional vegetarian favourites like Veg Pulao and Kadai Paneer continue to win hearts and plates. In fact, data shows that other traditional favourites like Rice Kheer, Vermicelli Payasam and Rasam continue to enjoy widespread popularity and these age-old classics are not being replaced. In 2023, beyond the sheer diversity of dishes, there’s a profound shift in how we approach home cooking. It is the ease with which young Indian homes are adopting technology to alleviate the monotony of daily cooking that stands out. AI is seamlessly weaving into our daily lives, and its influence extends into the kitchen. So, let’s embrace the kitchen, explore new horizons, and stop settling for boring food. Join us in this culinary revolution, and let’s savour the flavours of a changing India together. The kitchen is where traditions meet innovation, where flavours unite diverse palates, and where the culinary journey continues to evolve, thanks to the wonders of AI. By Mahek Mody

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

A GUIDE TO EFFECTIVE MENU PLANNING

In the dynamic world of culinary arts, crafting a menu is not just about listing dishes; it’s a delicate art that involves a chef’s meticulous planning and strategic thinking. Here, we delve into the essential elements that make up the art of menu planning explained by Chef Vishwanath Narake:

Understanding the Business Landscape: A chef’s first canvas is the food cost and the budgetary goals of the food service operation. This involves a careful balance between offering quality ingredients and maintaining profitability. Production capability is the next stroke, considering available equipment and personnel, and ensuring that the menu aligns with the kitchen’s capacity. Tailoring to Service Dynamics: The type of service and food delivery system play a crucial role. A fine-dining establishment may demand a different approach than a fastcasual setup. This consideration ensures that the menu not only complements the dining experience but also aligns with operational efficiency. Harmony in Ingredients’ Availability: A chef’s symphony is incomplete without considering the availability of ingredients. Seasonal produce not only adds freshness but also helps in managing costs. A thoughtful approach to ingredient sourcing ensures a harmonious and sustainable menu. Philosophy as the Guiding Star: The philosophy of the business and the foodservice operation serves as the North Star. Whether it’s a commitment to local and organic produce or a dedication to global culinary fusion, the menu should reflect and enhance the overall ethos of the establishment. Pricing as a Fine-Tuned Note: Right pricing is a key element, balancing the perceived value of the dish with the cost of production. A strategic pricing model not only attracts customers but also sustains the financial Keep the words appealing, as they serve as the health of the business. brushstrokes that paint a vivid picture of the dish. Descriptive language not only entices the palate Material Selection: Choosing the right material for the menu is akin but also provides an insight into the culinary craftsmanship behind each creation. to selecting the perfect backdrop for a painting. The menu should be reflective of the ambiance and style of the establishment, creating an immersive dining experience for the patrons.

Showcasing Signature Dishes: Promote your signature dishes as the pièce de résistance. These are the star performers that Logical Design for Seamless Experience: define the chef’s artistry and distinguish the Designing the menu logically is about creating a establishment. Strategically placing them on the menu ensures they receive the attention they flow that guides the diners through a seamless deserve. culinary journey. Grouping dishes logically, whether by course or flavor profiles, assists Feedback: The Ongoing Dialogue: patrons in navigating the offerings effortlessly. Collecting customer feedback is akin to an artist seeking critique. It provides valuable insights into Words that Tantalize:

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what works and what can be refined. Customer opinions guide continuous improvement, ensuring the menu evolves with the dynamic tastes and preferences of the clientele. In conclusion, menu planning is not a static process but an evolving masterpiece. A chef’s perspective incorporates a careful blend of financial acumen, culinary creativity, and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. The art lies in achieving a harmonious balance that tantalizes taste buds, captivates hearts, and sustains a thriving culinary legacy. (IANSlife)

DIET

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

Using food to help reduce inflammation and pain BY DEEVYA GUPTA

Foods can assist in reducing or increasing inflammation within the body. Increased inflammation may be a cause for many health conditions including common joint pains as well as some chronic conditions related to heart and diabetes health. Some commonly known foods to help reduce inflammation include: NUTS AND SEEDS Plant-derived foods such as nuts and seeds, are a rich source of omega fatty acids, some also contain magnesium and Vitamin E which can help reduce inflammation as well as reduction in risk factors for heart disease and diabetes. Remember to opt for unsalted nuts and a handful a day rather than the whole jar! Nuts and seeds would make for a perfect snack in between meals to help satisfy hunger levels throughout the day or evening. EXTRA-VIRGIN OLIVE OIL Extra virgin olive oil has for many years been commonly associated with reduced inflammation among its many benefits. Benefits are usually seen with up to an intake of 3 tablespoons per day. Extra virgin olive oil can be used in cold foods as well as daily cooking. So, you can enjoy these benefits with your regular food consumption. CINNAMON Cinnamon contains natural antibacterial and antifungal components and shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. You can enjoy cinnamon in a range of foods, including desserts and savory foods. GINGER

Ginger possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant traits, in particular studies have been completed for those who have osteoarthritis to help reduce the inflammation and pain associated with it. Ginger has also been associated with reduced muscle pain after exercise if consumed regularly before starting. TURMERIC (HALDI) Turmeric has been associated with reducing inflammation (and therefore pain) in the body, improving heart health and increasing HDL (good cholesterol) and lowering bad cholesterol levels. BLACK PEPPER Regular consumption of black pepper may assist with asthma, digestion, and heart health, reduce hunger, improve the absorption of certain nutrients, and even improve your mood. Consuming black pepper with turmeric may help with the body’s ability to absorb the main anti-inflammatory component of turmeric. FATTY FISH OR FISH OIL Fatty fish or fish oils are also rich in omega acids, therefore decreasing overall inflammation with regular consumption. Studies have reported some benefits in improving tender joint as well as stiffness in the morning. Fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, sardines and mackerel contain the highest amount of natural fish oil. The recommended serves would be 2-4 times per week. If you

don’t enjoy eating fish, you may be able to supplement with fish oil capsules if you feel you are likely to have longer intake. REDUCE YOUR OVERALL INTAKE OF PROCESSED FOODS Processed foods usually contain a high amount fats salts or sugars, of which fats and sugar may contribute to inflammation. Below are some examples of processed foods, which you may choose to enjoy occasionally in small quantities to help reduce inflammation: • Biscuits and chips (packaged foods particularly cooked with cream, butter, sugar or ingredients-alike) • Fried foods • Take away foods • Sweets, chocolates and lollies • Packaged snacks • Packaged sauces • Processed foods (with low fibre content) INCREASE YOUR OVERALL INTAKE OF EVERYDAY FOODS These include going for high-fibre cereals, wholegrains instead of white flour products and plenty of vegetables, salads, and 2 servings of fruits per day. (Please note this advice is of a general nature. If you have any concerns or queries you should get tailored advice from an Accredited Practicing Dietitian and always consult with your General Practitioner before making any changes. Our dietitians are here to help.)

Deevya Gupta is an Accredited Practicing Dietitian in Melbourne | W: www.abcofnutrition.com.au

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RECIPE

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

Papflet Hara Masala (Pomfret fish cooked with fresh green herb paste)

Pomfret fish is an important food sources for humans. It is widely available in the Asian countries, there’s no reason why we can’t enjoy it here in Melbourne! Pomfret is healthy and wonderfully tender when steamed, baked in the oven, fried or cooked in a curry. Pomfret Fry is a mouth watering fish recipe.

INGREDIENTS

2 Pomfret (medium sized) Salt and pepper ½ tsp turmeric powder Juice of half a lemon 1 tbsp garlic paste 1 tbsp ginger paste 1 tbsp red chilli paste 2 tbsp fresh mint paste 2 tbsp fresh coriander paste 1 cup rice flour 2 tbsp olive oil Oil – to cook

METHOD

1. Clean fish and make slits on either side. 2. Marinate the fish with salt, pepper, turmeric powder and lemon juice. Set aside for 15 mins. 3. In a bowl, mix all the remaining ingredients, except the rice flour, to make a thick paste. 4. Generously apply the paste on both sides of the fish and set aside for 30 minutes or more. 5. Coat the fish with a thin layer of rice flour on each side.(optional) 6. In a pan, heat enough oil to pan fry or deep fry the fish, according to preference. Fry the fish until golden brown. 7. Serve hot with Tadka Dal and Basmati rice or Chappati.

SERVES:

Serves four people.

GARNISH:

BY MANJIT SETHI

With lemon wedges and onion rings.

TIP: Have your fish pre-cut down the

centre for better taste.

recipe

from the private collection

Here’s why you get headache after drinking red wine

Ever wondered why some people, drinking red wine even in small amounts, get a headache. Flavanol may be the culprit, finds a study. Typically, a “red wine headache” can occur within 30 minutes to three hours after consuming as little as a small glass of wine. Researchers at the University of California, Davis, found that a flavanol found naturally in red wines can interfere with the proper metabolism of alcohol and can lead to a headache. This flavanol is called quercetin and it is naturally present in all kinds of fruits and vegetables, including grapes. It’s considered a healthy antioxidant and is

even available in supplement form. But when metabolised with alcohol, it can be problematic, revealed the study published in the journal Scientific Reports. “When it gets in your bloodstream, your body converts it to a different form called quercetin glucuronide,” said wine chemist and corresponding author Andrew Waterhouse, professor with the UC Davis Department of Viticulture and Enology. “In that form, it blocks the metabolism of alcohol.” As a result, people can end up accumulating the toxin acetaldehyde, explains lead author Apramita Devi, postdoctoral researcher with the UC Davis Department of Viticulture and Enology.

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“Acetaldehyde is a well-known toxin, irritant and inflammatory substance,” said Devi. “Researchers know that high levels of acetaldehyde can cause facial flushing, headache and nausea.” The medication disulfiram prescribed to alcoholics to prevent them from drinking causes these same symptoms. Waterhouse said that’s because the drug also causes the toxin to build up in the body when normally an enzyme in the body would break it down. Waterhouse said levels of this flavanol can vary dramatically in red wine. “Quercetin is produced by the grapes in response to sunlight,” Waterhouse said. “If you grow grapes with the clusters exposed, you get much higher levels of quercetin. In some cases, it can be four to five times higher.” Levels of quercetin can also differ depending on how the wine is made, including skin contact during fermentation, fining processes and ageing. Scientists next aim to compare red wines that contain a lot of quercetin with those that have very little to test their theory about red wine headaches on people.

(IANS)

ASTROLOGY

G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

By D. Narayan (Tantracharya) Mesha (Aries)

Vrishabh (Taurus)

Mithuna (Gemini)

A month during which not only are there no prospects for advancing your career, but if you are not careful you could well find yourself coming several rungs down the ladder from your present station. There is a distinct possibility that some of you would be inclined to operate outside the law for quick profits. Should this be allowed to happen, the consequences can only be disastrous. You must, therefore firmly resolve not to succumb to such temptation.

Nothing particularly favourable about your financial prospects this month,. There are clear indications that speculation would result in serious losses for some of you. The lesson is evident, that you should stay away from gambling of all varieties. There is the likelihood of your relations with your superiors deteriorating to such an extent that losses become a distinct possibility

A good month to go places in your professional endeavours. Those inclined towards artistic activity and practitioners of the fine arts can look forward to a period of extremely satisfying creative pursuits. In fact, some of you may well go on to make a mark for yourselves with your contributions. There would also be a good deal of travel, which would also prove quite beneficial.

Best days: 3, 12, 30 Lucky Colour: Red, Orange, Cream

Best days: 9, 18, 27 Lucky Colour: Green, Blue

Best days: 2, 7, 9 Lucky Colour: Red, White, Yellow

Simha (Leo)

Kanya (Virgo)

Tula (Libra)

Stay away from gambling of any sort. Relations with your superiors or employees are also likely to come under a cloud, to the extent that serious loss would become almost certain. But this you can prevent by some concentrated action and advance planning. There would also be some among you, who would concentrate unduly on generating unaccounted money.

The picture of your financial prospects, as it emerges from the augury from the stars is far from bright. Writers, poets and others of their ilk would do well to make provisions for the rainy day, for they are likely to face an extremely lean spell during this coming month.Indications are that some of you would suffer considerable losses owing to speculative activity. The lesson is obvious : stay away from gambling of any sort.

Best days: 5,3 Lucky Colour: White & Orange

Best days: 3, 12 Lucky Colour: Orange, Green

Dhanu (Sagittarius)

Makara (Capricorn)

M: 0425 660 220

Karkat (Cancer)

The turn of events would not favour your financial advancement this month, is what the augury from the stars has to say. True enough, there are clear indications that speculation would bring serious losses to some of you. Therefore, it would be wise to stay away from gambling of any sort whatever. There are also indications that any dispute or litigation that you might be involved in would almost certainly be decided against you, resulting in losses. Best days: 9, 18 Lucky Colour: Red, Blue

Vrishchik (Scorpio)

The picture of your financial prospects this month is none too bright, as it emerges, out of the augury from the stars. There is a distinct likelihood that your relations with your superiors would nose-dive to such an extent when serious losses clearly loom over the horizon. This, you should prevent by some advance actions and foresight. Speculation, also, would in all probability, result in serious losses for some of you.

You are likely to feel quite secure, and may in all likelihood change your job or at last effect a major change in your operations, whether in business or service. There is also a very high degree of probability that you would get into conflicts with your superiors or seniors. This should be averted, since it can only compound your woes.

Best days: 9, 18 Lucky Colour: Red, Blue

Best days: 1, 3, 4 Lucky Colour: Red, Orange

Kumbha (Aquarius)

Meen (Pisces)

Not a favourable month, for your financial prospects, in so far as the augury from the stars is concerned. There is a distinct possibility of your relations with your superiors deteriorating to such an extent that you might have to suffer a loss on this account. You must, therefore, guard against such a possibility and take steps well in advance to prevent such an eventuality.

A month that promises favourable financial prospects, since the stars are in a favourable mood. There is a distinct chance that you would gain substantially through the good offices of an elderly person. Good fortune would further help some of you in that a partnership or a professional association with a member of the female sex would prove to be extremely beneficial.

This month, you have fairly encouraging financial prospects. There is a distinct chance that you would gain substantially by a service done to you by some elderly person. You could expect further good fortune through a partnership or a professional association with some member of the female sex. This could also bring handsome gains.

A satisfactory month, for your financial prospects during which you could achieve significant gains, though not entirely without difficulties. Association with gifted people of learning and spiritual stature would catalyse the successful completion of your enterprises, whatever these may be. In fact, this would imbue your entire working life with a satisfying dimension of culture and refinement.

Best days: 9, 18 Lucky Colour: Red, Blue

Best days: 1, 3, 4 Lucky Colour: White, Green, Blue

Lucky Colour: White, Green, Blue Lucky Numbers - 5, 3, 6

Best days: 2, 7, 9 Lucky Colour: Red, Yellow, White

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Have a laug h

HAVE A LAUGH

WHY? WHY? WHY? WHY? If swimming is a good exercise to stay FIT, why are whales FAT???? Why is the place in a stadium where people SIT, called a STAND???? Why is that everyone wants to go to HEAVEN, but nobody wants to DIE???? In our country, we have FREEDOM of SPEECH, then why do we have TELEPHONE BILLS???? If money doesn't grow on TREES, then why do BANKS have BRANCHES? Why doesn't GLUE stick to its BOTTLE???? Why do you still call it a BUILDING, when its already BUILT???? If it is true that we are here to HELP others, what are others HERE for???? If you aren't supposed to DRINK and DRIVE, why do bars have PARKING lots???? If all the nations in the world are in DEBT, where did all the MONEY go???? When dog food is new with improved TASTE, who TESTS it???? If the "Black Box" flight recorder Is never damaged during a plane crash, why isn't the whole airplane made out of that stuff???? Who copyrighted. the copyright symbols????

Why do people say: "You've been working like a dog," when dogs just sit around all day???? Why don't people clap in Afghanistan? Because of 'Tali-ban'!

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G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

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G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

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G’DAY INDIA | DEC 2023

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