Issuu

JAN 2026

w w w. g d a y i n d i a . c o m . a u

VOL 20 ISSUE 225

FREE

AUSTRALIAN INDIAN PERSPECTIVE

Sayeri Gupta Biswas, blends migration music and joy across continents

Nikhil Chaudhary, Indian Australian cricketer partners Aunty Jenny Spices proudly

From Melbourne to Motherland, Sahil Dhiman bridges heritage and ambition

Author Jamel Singh, brings multicultural stories alive for young Australians

Manmeet Bedi, traces Sikh pioneers from Punjab shaping Australia nation

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

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G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

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One Million Young Victorians Now Travelling for Free

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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 | JAN 2026

MELBOURNE, Jan 1: The Allan Labor Government is making public transport free for every child, every day, everywhere – putting money back in the pockets of parents right across Victoria. Acting Premier Ben Carroll and Minister for Public and Active Transport Gabrielle Williams announced that all passengers under 18 are now able to catch a train, tram or bus for free with their Youth myki card anywhere in the state. This will help to ease the cost of living for Victorian families – making getting to school

and seeing family and friends cheaper and easier. A yearly student pass in 2025 cost $755. A family with three children using yearly student passes spent $2,265 a year. A student without a yearly pass – who buys a daily fare four times a week – spent $1,144 a year. Across Victoria there are more than one million young Victorians who are eligible for the new Youth myki card, unlocking more opportunities to get young people where they need to go. Passengers aged 5 to 17 must carry their Youth myki as proof of their free travel entitlement and should continue to tap on and off to ensure a smooth entry and exit when travelling across the network. Youth myki cards are available to purchase for $5, both online on the Transport Victoria website or in person at staffed stations. It’s just one of the ways the Labor Government is making travel across Victoria cheaper. The Labor Government’s regional fare cap has already saved Victorians more than $174 million and travel is free for everyone, everywhere, every weekend across the public transport network until Sunday, 1 February to celebrate the opening of the Metro Tunnel. For more information on the Youth myki and free travel across the network visit transport.vic. gov.au.

Celebrating 50 Years of Saving on Kids’ Swim Lessons

MELBOURNE, Jan 5: The Allan Labor Government has given even more families access to affordable learn to swim classes, as the VICSWIM Summer Kidz Program celebrates 50 years this month. Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence joined Member for Sunbury Josh Bull along with Kathy Parton CEO of Aquatics and Recreation Victoria at Sunbury Aquatic and Leisure Centre to launch the program’s 50th year celebrations and the first swim lessons of 2026. Since 1976, VICSWIM’s learn-to-swim

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program has helped generations of young people learn the skills, water-safety and survival knowledge that is so vital in saving lives. For families on a budget, the program also provides accessible and affordable swimming and water safety lessons across Victoria. This month more than 15,000 children will take part at almost 150 locations throughout metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria. The program includes lessons to develop foundational swimming skills as well as water safety education for children aged four to 12 years. Five 30-minute lessons are provided over the course of a week in January for a subsidised cost of just $43 – helping more families afford swimming lessons for their kids. It’s part of wide-ranging efforts to stem the tide of drownings seen in recent summers, and to ensure even more kids get their chance to learn water-safety basics at lessons that are more affordable for families. The Victorian Budget 2023-24 invested $1.6 million over 4 years to continue the government's support of this popular program. For more information about the Program and to book, visit vicswim.com.au

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

Record 19 New Schools to Open Across Victoria This Year

MELBOURNE, Jan 7: Thousands of Victorian kids are preparing to pick up their pens in 19 new schools opening in some of the state’s fastest growing communities. Acting Premier and Minister for Education Ben Carroll took a sneak peek at Truganina’s brand new Mindalk Primary School today, where up to 575 kids will walk through the doors for Term 1 in just a few weeks. The new school features an administration and library building, as well as three learning neighbourhoods that are home to modern

classrooms. The site is also home to a community hub with spaces for music and art, hard courts and a sports field. Importantly, Mindalk Primary School is an inclusion school with purpose-built facilities including sensory areas, accessible play spaces and wider corridors designed to support students with a disability. Blayne Wallis is the foundation Principal at Mindalk Primary School, bringing decades of experience in teaching and leadership across several schools.

To help parents avoid the dreaded double drop off the Allan Labor Government has also partnered with Melton City Council to deliver a new kinder next to the school – with 99 places for local kids to ensure they get the best start to their education. Mindalk Primary School is part of the Labor Government’s commitment to open 100 new schools by 2026, with 19 set to welcome students in Term 1, 2026. As of December, there were more than 2,650 students enrolled across the 19 new schools including more than 750 preps – highlighting how important it is to keep delivering growing communities the schools they need. The Labor Government has delivered record investment in school infrastructure – building 123 new schools and more than 2,300 school upgrades. Other schools opening next year include Birranga College in Clyde North, Biyala Primary School in Armstrong Creek, Kolorer College in Cobblebank, Narrarrang Primary School in Port Melbourne and Marra School in Kalkallo. For a full list of new schools opening in 2026 visit schoolbuildings.vic.gov.au/newschools.

Action On Latest Blockbuster Movie in Victoria

MELBOURNE, Jan 7: Victoria’s screen industry is already in full swing for 2026 – with Gerard Butler’s new action blockbuster transforming the streets of Melbourne and building on a stellar line-up of local and international productions filmed across the state – thanks to support from the Allan Labor Government. Minister for Creative Industries Colin

Brooks visited the set of Empire City to meet Butler and co-star Hayley Atwell (Mission Impossible, Captain America) along with the film’s Victorian producer Paul Currie (Hacksaw Ridge, Better Man). Empire City started production in November across Melbourne including at Docklands Studios Melbourne, Abbotsford, Brooklyn, Fitzroy, Melbourne Town Hall and the Royal Exhibition Building. The 10-week shoot is creating 1,225 jobs including 510 roles for local crew and more than 700 jobs for Victorian actors and extras. The production is engaging 600 local businesses and is expected to inject more than $35 million into the Victorian economy. Empire City is produced by Marc Butan (Plane, The Trial of the Chicago 7), Alan Siegel (Den of Thieves, Paris Has Fallen) and Currie, and is directed by Michael Matthews (Love and Monsters) from a script by Brian Tucker (Secret Invasion), and S. Craig Zahler (Bone Tomahawk). Last year was a huge year of screen production in Victoria, including the Liam Neeson action feature The Mongoose, horror

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movie Insidious 6, TV drama The Dispatcher, football biopic The Untitled John Tuggle Project and World War II thriller Play Dead. Local productions thrived too – including children’s series Knee High Spies, and TV productions Goolagong, Dog Park and High Country season 2 which commenced in late 2025 and will return to filming later this month. Collectively these Victorian-based screen productions injected more than $150 million into the economy across the year. Empire City was attracted to the state by the Allan Labor Government through VicScreen’s Victorian Screen Incentive and also received support from the Australian Government’s Location Offset. Elevating Victoria’s position as a global screen destination is a focus of the Government’s recently released creative industries strategy Creative State 2028, with continued investment in VicScreen to deliver a strong pipeline of local and international productions that create jobs, generate revenue and strengthen our screen culture.

(MEDIA RELEASE)

NEWS VICTORIA

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

Hundreds Of New Homes in the Inner City

MELBOURNE, Dec 31: The Allan Labor Government has approved nearly 500 new homes across Melbourne’s Docklands and Southbank – providing more choice for Victorians to live close to public transport, jobs and services. Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny has approved two projects that will together deliver 483 new homes, helping more people live close to where they work, study and

connect with the city. The project at Lorimer Street in Docklands, will deliver 303 new homes – including a mix of one, two and threebedroom homes as well as new ground-floor retail spaces. These new homes will be located close to public transport, shared walking and cycling paths, the Docklands waterfront, and employment precincts.

The development at Sturt Street in Southbank will deliver 180 new homes - including a mix of studio, one, two and three-bedroom homes, as well as a new retail space, a hospitality space, and two customisable creative arts spaces. The Sturt Street homes will be close to public transport, the Malthouse Theatre, Melbourne’s arts and cultural precinct, including the Royal Botanic Gardens, the Shrine, and the National Gallery of Victoria. These projects will deliver more homes where people want to live – close to transport, education, culture and employment – while supporting strong, vibrant inner-city communities. The latest figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics show Victoria continues to approve and build thousands of more homes than any other state. The Labor Government continues to deliver on its bold housing reforms that are about giving Victorians real housing choice – more opportunities to live in the communities they love. These reforms include overhauling outdated planning laws, fast tracking good developments, slashing stamp duty on eligible off-the-plan homes, setting housing targets for every council, delivering more homes near public transport, making it easier to subdivide, and simplifying townhouse and duplex approvals.

(MEDIA RELEASE)

High-Quality Homes Fast Tracked in The Inner City

MELBOURNE, Dec 22: The Allan Labor Government is delivering more high-quality homes sooner, with the first project approved under the new Great Design Fast Track planning pathway. Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny announced approval for a seven storey, 27 home development at 301–317 Rae Street, Fitzroy North – the first project to receive the greenlight through this streamlined process. The development will deliver a mix of

two and three-bedroom apartments as well as car and bike parking. Future residents will live just moments from great transport, local shops and some of Melbourne’s best parks, including Edinburgh Gardens and Princes Park. Located in one of Melbourne’s most connected neighbourhoods – close to the Route 96 and Route 11 trams, several bus routes, the Capital City Trail, and the shops of Brunswick Street and St Georges Road – it is exactly the type of well-serviced area where more homes should be

built. This project was approved three months after the application was officially submitted. Comparatively, a similar sized development could take up to eight months for council approval – or even years if it gets dragged to VCAT. The Great Design Fast Track is a new streamlined planning pathway that is making it quicker and easier to approve well-

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designed homes from two to eight storeys. Projects must meet certain design principles to qualify for the pathway, ensuring they are high-quality, long-lasting and good value for residents. The Office of the Victorian Government Architect (OVGA) will review applications to confirm they meet these high standards. Locals still retain their right to have their say, and all submissions will be considered, but they will be fast tracked, meaning there will be no third-party appeals, with the Minister for Planning being the responsible authority for projects that go through this pathway. The new planning pathway builds on the Labor Government’s bold housing reforms to give Victorians real housing choice – more opportunities to live in the communities they love. This includes overhauling outdated planning laws, fast tracking good developments, slashing stamp duty on off the plan homes, setting housing targets for every council, delivering more homes near public transport, making it easier to subdivide, and simplifying townhouse and duplex approvals.

(MEDIA RELEASE)

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

International Tourism Drives Record Visitor Spend

MELBOURNE, Dec 19: Victoria has recorded its strongest tourism result on record – with visitor spending hitting an all-time high of $46 billion in the 12 months to September 2025 – supported by the Allan Labor Government’s new partnerships and world class line up of major events. Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos said the latest data from Tourism Research Australia’s Domestic Tourism Statistics and International Visitor Survey shows growth was driven by a surge in international spending from key markets including India and China. China remained Victoria’s top market for international expenditure with visitors spending $3.1 billion – up 22.4 per cent year-on-year. The growth aligns with the state’s new China Strategy and Visit Victoria’s ‘Every bit different’ marketing push in China. Victoria attracted the most Indian visitors of any state, leading in total nights stayed and visitor spending ($808 million). This was a 38.1 per cent increase compared to same period last year, well ahead of the Australian growth rate of 28.6 per cent. Victoria led all other states in the Malaysian and Taiwan markets for number

of visitors, nights stayed and expenditure. Japan became a top five market for total expenditure and nights stayed. International spend in regional Victoria also reached an all-time high of $801 million.

Overall, Victoria remained the nation’s second largest visitor economy, accounting for a quarter (24.3 per cent) of market share. For interstate visitors, Melbourne remained the top overnight leisure destination in Australia – outperforming all other capital cities for the number of trips, nights stayed

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and expenditure ($1.4 billion) for the September 2025 quarter. The Mornington Peninsula was the most popular destination for intrastate travellers with the most overnight trips (525,000) – while the Murray region topped the number of nights stayed (1.2 million) and expenditure ($273 million). Overall Victorians spent $1.8 billion across 8.9 million nights on local trips within the state. The Labor Government’s $7 million Industry Partnerships Program – which sees industry partners match government investment dollar-for-dollar – is supporting the record result, along with Victoria’s major events calendar. We're the only city on the planet with a Grand Prix and Grand Slam, NBA games, the Boxing Day Test and the AFL Grand Final, the race that stops the nation, gigs across the state and world-class major events all year round. A packed summer line up – including the Boxing Day Test, Australian Open, Festival of Sails, the NGV’s Westwood | Kawakubo exhibition and the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race – is expected to attract even more visitors. More visitors mean more jobs, with our record-breaking visitor economy supporting 288,000 jobs across the state. (MEDIA RELEASE)

NEWS AUSTRALIA

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

"Australia remains steadfast in commitment to just and lasting peace for Ukraine": PM Albanese

CANBERRA, Jan 5: Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated he spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and reaffirmed Australia's continued support for Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. Albanese said, "This evening I spoke with President @ ZelenskyyUa of Ukraine to offer Australia's continued support in the ongoing fight against Russia's illegal invasion." Reiterating Australia's position, the Prime Minister added, "Australia remains steadfast in our commitment to a just and lasting peace for Ukraine." The exchange comes as Ukraine continues to intensify diplomatic engagement with its international partners on both security and post-war recovery. Earlier, on January 3, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he held talks with the National

Security Advisors of partner countries on security guarantees, reconstruction and a basic framework for real rebuilding. Providing details of those discussions, Zelenskyy said Ukraine was coordinating closely with European partners, Canada, the European Union and NATO, while also maintaining communication with the American side. "First outcomes from today's work with national security advisors of partner countries. European partners, Canada, the EU, and NATO are engaged, and we are also communicating with the American side," he said, thanking partners for their support. He said the discussions were progressing along three main tracks. "Our discussions are moving forward along three key directions - security guarantees, reconstruction, and a basic framework for a real rebuilding," Zelenskyy said, adding that the vision was aligned with that of Ukraine's key partners and aimed at establishing peace for decades. Zelenskyy said the consultations with advisors were ongoing as Ukraine prepared for further high-level engagements. "Work with the advisors continues. We are preparing meetings in Europe next week. We are also getting ready for meetings in the United States," he said.

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He further said that multiple structured discussions had already taken place, involving Ukraine's negotiating team and participants from various countries and institutions. "Today, three panels were held involving Ukraine's negotiating team and 18 participants from various countries and institutions," Zelenskyy said, noting that the focus remained on security guarantees, rebuilding and a basic framework for a real peace. Outlining the next steps, Zelenskyy said discussions would continue in the coming days. "On January 5, a meeting of chiefs of the general staff will take place, followed by a leaders-level meeting in Paris on January 6," he said, adding that Ukraine expects a productive joint meeting with representatives of the United States after these contacts. Against this backdrop, Zelenskyy reiterated the urgent need for continued partner support, stressing that Ukrainians remain under constant threat from Russian strikes. "It is critically important for Ukraine that partner support continues - steady defence assistance and reinforcement of our air defence," he said. Highlighting the scale of recent attacks, Zelenskyy said, "This week alone, Russia launched more than 1,070 guided aerial bombs, nearly 1,000 attack drones, and six missiles against Ukraine." He urged partners to accelerate the delivery of agreed assistance, adding, "Every missile for air defence systems that is currently held in storage by partners can truly save lives."

(ANI)

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

Too Many Lives Lost on Our Roads In 2025

MELBOURNE, Jan 1: The Allan Labor Government is focused on reducing road trauma now and in the new year, following too many lives lost on Victoria’s roads in 2025. As the year ended, tragically 288 people lost their lives on Victorian roads compared with 284 in 2024. That’s 288 pedestrians, motorcyclists, drivers, passengers, e-scooter riders or cyclists who never made it home to their loved ones. The number of lives lost has been lower in the two years since the 295 lives lost in 2023 but it’s still far too many. Last year, we announced our Road Safety Action Plan 2 that will deliver life-saving road safety infrastructure and strengthen enforcement over the next four years to reduce road trauma across Victoria. An investment of more than $1.1 billion is supporting our ambitious goal of halving road deaths and significantly reducing road trauma by 2030, including $350 million for new initiatives and critical safety infrastructure such as barriers on high-risk curves and along rural and urban roads. To make it easier for Councils to select the most appropriate speed limits on local roads, the Department of Transport and Planning has updated the Speed Zoning Policy to include more choices, including 30km/h and

70km/h options. We are continuing to improve safety through targeted infrastructure programs, including the $23 million Safe Pedestrian Program and the $210 million Safe Local Roads and Streets Program. Victoria’s Road Safety Strategy 2021– 2030 builds on these efforts, bringing together policy, education, technology, infrastructure and vehicle safety to drive

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lasting change. While we continue to deliver life-saving programs and investments, road safety is a shared responsibility. We urge all Victorians to do their part – wear a seatbelt or helmet, never use a mobile phone while driving, avoid driving or riding while fatigued or under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and always obey speed limits.

(MEDIA RELEASE)

NEWS WORLD

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

India's export to Australia grows 8% over 3 years of Ind-Aus ECTA: Piyush Goyal

NEW DELHI, Dec 29: India and Australia marked the third anniversary of their Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA), showing a significant rise in trade between the two nations. The trade deal, which started three years ago, led to an 8 per cent growth in Indian exports to Australia during the 2024-25 financial year. This growth helped improve the overall trade balance for India.

A major change is also expected to take place from January 1, 2026, as 100 per cent of Australian tariff lines will become zero-duty for Indian exports. This means Indian goods can enter Australia without extra taxes, creating new chances for sectors that employ many workers. Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal, shared the details on X. He stated that the agreement "translated intent into impact" over the last three years. "Over the past three years, the Agreement has delivered sustained export growth, deeper market access, and stronger supply-chain resilience, benefiting Indian exporters, MSMEs, farmers, and workers alike," he said. Goyal noted that the trade agreement brought strong gains to many different

industries. These included manufacturing, chemicals, textiles, plastics, and pharmaceuticals. Petroleum products and the gems and jewellery sector also saw a rise in business. Specifically, exports for gems and jewellery increased by 16 per cent between April and November 2025. Agricultural products from India have also found more buyers in Australia. There was broad growth in the sale of fruits, vegetables, marine products, and spices. Coffee exports showed especially high growth during this period. To make trading easier, both countries signed a Mutual Recognition Arrangement for organic products. This step allows for smoother trade and reduces the costs that exporters have to pay to follow rules. "As Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) negotiations advance, Ind-Aus ECTA continues to anchor India's economic engagement in the IndoPacific, aligned with Make in India and the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. Together, India and Australia are building a future of shared prosperity and trusted trade," Goyal noted. (ANI)

India ranks 3rd in rare earth reserves, but trails in production due to structural bottlenecks in mining

NEW DELHI, Dec 29: India has the world's third-largest rare earth reserves, but its production remains among the lowest compared to major global players, highlighting a sharp gap between resource availability and actual output, according to a report by Amicus Growth. Data showed that India holds about 6.9 million tonnes of rare earth oxide (REO) reserves, placing it behind only China and Brazil. China tops the list with 44 million tonnes of reserves, followed by Brazil with 21 million tonnes. Other countries with notable reserves include Australia (5.7 million tonnes), Russia (3.8 million tonnes), Vietnam (3.5 million

tonnes) and the United States (1.9 million tonnes). Despite its strong reserve position, India's production remains limited. In 2024, India produced only 2,900 tonnes of rare earths, ranking seventh globally. In comparison, China produced 270,000 tonnes, making it the clear global leader. The United States was the second-largest producer with 45,000 tonnes, followed by Myanmar (31,000 tonnes). Australia, Thailand and Nigeria each produced around 13,000 tonnes. The report highlighted that India holds nearly 6-7 per cent of global rare earth reserves, yet contributes less than 1 per cent of global production. Most of India's reserves are found in monazite-rich coastal sands, which also contain thorium, a radioactive element. This makes mining and processing more complex and subject to strict regulations. According to the report, regulatory challenges have historically slowed rare earth mining in India. For decades, production was largely restricted and handled mainly by Indian Rare Earths Limited (IREL), where rare earth elements were treated as byproducts rather than strategic resources. Beyond mining, the report pointed to processing and refining as the biggest challenge. While rare earth reserves exist

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in several countries, processing capacity is heavily concentrated. China controls about 90 per cent of global rare earth refining capacity and almost the entire processing of heavy rare earth elements. This gives China a major advantage across the entire value chain. India, on the other hand, has very limited processing and refining capacity. The report stated, "Annual production has been only a few thousand tonnes, and India has played virtually no role in global REE trade". As a result, it has played a minimal role in the global rare earth trade. While a Japanlinked joint venture in Visakhapatnam has marked India's return to the rare earth sector, the scale remains small. Globally, rare earth reserves are estimated at around 90-110 million tonnes of REO. China alone holds nearly half of these reserves, strengthening its dominance in both supply and production. The report concluded that India's challenge is not a lack of resources, but gaps in execution, processing capacity and value-chain integration. Unless these issues are addressed, India's large reserves may not translate into global influence in the rare earth sector.

(ANI)

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

Australia must triple electricity generation and storage capacity by 2050

A new report reveals Australia's electricity capacity must triple by 2050, requiring massive investment in renewables, storage, and transmission lines. CANBERRA, Dec 10: Australia's total electricity generation and storage capacity will need to triple by 2050 in order to keep up with demand, according to a report published by the energy market operator. The Australian Energy Market Operator released the draft version of the 2026 Integrated System Plan (ISP), projecting that total electricity generation and storage

capacity will need to increase from 92 gigawatts (GW) currently to 190 GW by 2035 and 297 GW by 2050. The ISP, a roadmap for the least-cost and efficient development of the National Electricity Market that is updated every two years, projected that grid-scale wind and solar generation capacity will increase fivefold from 23 GW currently to 120 GW in 2050, reports Xinhua news agency. In the same time frame, electricity storage capacity, including batteries, virtual power plants and pumped hydro, is projected to

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increase from 12 GW to 55 GW, and the total generation capacity of distributed solar photovoltaic systems, such as rooftop systems, is expected to increase from 25 GW to 87 GW. The report said that around 6,000 kilometres of new transmission lines will be needed by 2050, representing about 13.6 per cent extension of the current network. It estimated the annualised capital cost through 2050 for grid-scale generation, storage, transmission and distribution at 128 billion Australian dollars (about 85 billion US dollars) under the least-cost optimal development path. Transmission investments of around 9 billion Australian dollars would save consumers an additional 22 billion Australian dollars in avoided costs and deliver emissions reductions valued at 2 billion Australian dollars, the report said. It is projected that the generation capacity of Australia's fleet of coal-fired power stations will decline from 21 GW currently to 7 GW by 2035 and 0 GW by 2050. (IANS)

NEWS WORLD

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

Why US attacked Venezuela: Socialism, oil or narco-terrorism?

2026 began with whispers of US hegemony in Latin America. The years of confrontation over power, oil, elections and alleged criminal activity — tensions climaxed into US military action in Venezuela on January 3, 2026, capturing President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. The US military launched a targeted operation in Venezuela (codenamed Operation Absolute Resolve). This marks a significant escalation from years of economic sanctions to direct military intervention. The Trump administration claimed Maduro was involved in drug trafficking and had rigged the 2024 election. The US had previously imposed sanctions on Venezuela and offered a $50 million bounty for Maduro's arrest. Have you ever wondered what’s really behind the ongoing chaos in Venezuela and why it seems to keep escalating? Is it just about politics, or is there a bigger game involving oil, sanctions, and global power plays? The US strike on Venezuela has highlighted the country's massive oil reserves, which total over 303 billion barrels, making them the world's largest proven reserves. However, production has dwindled to 1 million barrels per day due to US sanctions and underinvestment. Venezuela holds the world's largest proven oil reserves (estimated at over 300 billion barrels), which represent roughly 17% of the total global oil supply, OPEC data show. Venezuela's reserves top those of secondranked Saudi Arabia at 267 billion barrels and are more than six times the U.S.'s reserves. Most of Venezuela's untapped oil is located in the Orinoco Belt, a roughly 21,000-squaremile area that stretches across the country's northeastern region, according to CBS News. This vast resource is the central theme of the conflict, though the stated reasons and underlying motivations differ depending on who you ask. "President Trump does not have the constitutional authority to attack another country. When 60% of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck, he should focus on the crises at home, end his illegal military adventurism and stop trying to 'run' Venezuela for Big Oil," posted US Senator Bernie Sanders. Trump announced the US would "run" Venezuela temporarily, exploiting its oil reserves, and warned other countries in the region to toe the US line. The US government, under President Trump, justifies the intervention as a security necessity rather than a resource grab. The primary official reasons include: narcoterrorism charges, national security and migration crisis. The US indicted Nicolás Maduro and other high-ranking officials for allegedly leading a

"narco-terrorist" conspiracy to flood the US with cocaine. Washington also claims the Maduro government has become a "criminal enterprise" that destabilizes the Western Hemisphere by harbouring terrorist groups and facilitating human trafficking. Moreover, the US administration cites the mass exodus of millions of Venezuelans as a "border security" issue for the United States. Despite the official focus on crime and security, the US has been open about the strategic importance of Venezuela’s oil. The story begins with a long history of strained relations. Venezuela, under leaders like Hugo Chavez and now Nicolas Maduro, has adopted a socialist, nationalist stance, especially after nationalising oil assets and opposing US influence. Chávez’s government (1999-2013) championed socialist policies and took control of natural resources, making Venezuela a symbol of anti-imperialist resistance. But the real tension has escalated over the last 26 years, especially as Venezuela’s political landscape has grown turbulent. Maduro’s presidency, which started in 2013 after Chavez’s death, has faced opposition from within Venezuela and from the US, which accuses Maduro of authoritarianism and corruption. The opposition has also received backing from Western countries, especially the US, creating a fierce political rivalry. Since 2005, successive U.S. presidents have imposed a range of sanctions on Venezuela, including its oil sector, for what American officials have said is the country's failure to crack down on drug trafficking and terrorism, along with alleged human rights abuses, reported CBS News. Under former President Joe Biden, the US also froze the assets of Venezuela's stateowned oil company, Petróleos de Venezuela (PDVSA), in 2019. It barred Americans from doing business with the enterprise. Most recently, the Trump administration imposed sanctions on four companies and associated oil tankers that it said have ties to Venezuela's oil sector. The US strike on Venezuela is unlikely to significantly impact global oil prices due to Venezuela's limited crude production, currently around 1 million barrels per day, which is roughly 1% of global supply. Oil prices fell modestly on Saturday, with West Texas Crude dropping to $57.32 a barrel, down from nearly $80 in January.

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The US has also increased its Strategic Petroleum Reserve and domestic oil production, providing a cushion against volatility in global oil markets. The situation's outcome will depend on Venezuela's political developments and the US's next steps. If the US allows American companies to invest in Venezuela's oil industry, it could potentially increase production and impact global oil markets in the long term. In recent public statements, Trump has explicitly mentioned that Venezuela "took away our oil rights" years ago when foreign assets were nationalised, expressing a goal to restore U.S. corporate control over these reserves. As U.S. domestic shale production peaks, securing the Orinoco Oil Belt (the world’s largest accumulation of heavy crude) provides long-term energy dominance. The attack is also seen as a move to reestablish US hegemony in Latin America. Under Maduro, Venezuela formed deep military and economic ties with Russia, China, and Iran. The U.S. views these alliances as a direct threat in its "backyard." The goal of the capture was to remove Maduro and install a transitional government that is more aligned with U.S. interests and willing to reopen the economy to Western investment. Venezuela’s vast oil reserves, estimated at around 303 billion barrels, make it a treasure trove for global energy politics. Historically, Venezuela was a major oil exporter, with foreign companies like Chevron and ExxonMobil playing significant roles until the government took over assets in the late 1990s and early 2000s. US companies like Chevron, ConocoPhillips, and Exxon Mobil may re-enter the market if Venezuela offers favourable terms. The operation was part of Trump's National Security Strategy, aimed at reasserting US influence in the Western Hemisphere and countering the Chinese and Russian presence in the region. Russia and China are also key players in this geopolitical chess game. Russia, for example, has warned the US about any military escalation, emphasising that Venezuela’s sovereignty must be respected. Meanwhile, China’s economic influence in South America continues to grow, and Venezuela’s close ties with these powers complicate US efforts to isolate Maduro. The international community reacted with mixed reactions, with some countries condemning the US action as a violation of sovereignty and international law, while others supported it. The situation in Venezuela remains uncertain, with Maduro's vice president, Delcy Rodríguez, claiming the presidency and vowing to resist US control.

(ANI)

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

"PM Modi knew I was not happy": Trump warns of more tariffs if India continues Russian oil import WASHINGTON, DC, Jan 5: US President Donald Trump has held out a fresh warning to India over raising tariffs if continued imports of Russian oil, saying Prime Minister Narendra Modi was aware of his displeasure on the issue. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said it was important for India to keep him happy on the issue of Russian Oil Imports "PM Modi's a very good man. He's a good guy. He knew I was not happy. It was important to make me happy. They do trade, and we can raise tariffs on them very quickly," Trump said. The US strike on Venezuela has brought the issue of Oil into the forefront of geopolitics once again. Venezuela has massive oil reserves, which total over 303 billion barrels, making them the world's largest proven reserves. However, production has dwindled to 1 million barrels per day due to US sanctions and underinvestment. Venezuela holds the world's largest proven oil reserves (estimated at over 300 billion barrels), which

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represent roughly 17% of the total global oil supply, OPEC data shows. Trump's new warning to India comes amid growing scrutiny in Washington over India's energy trade with Russia, even as New Delhi has defended its oil purchases as essential for domestic energy security. The comments also come just weeks after Trump and Prime Minister Modi held a telephonic conversation, during which both leaders stressed the importance of maintaining momentum in bilateral trade ties despite ongoing tariffrelated tensions. The call coincided with the launch of a fresh round of negotiations between Indian and US officials aimed at resolving the long-standing trade impasse. Only days before the conversation with Modi, Trump had threatened to impose new tariffs on Indian rice imports. The warning followed complaints raised by a US farmer representative at a White House roundtable, who alleged dumping by India, China and Thailand.

(ANI)

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

G’Day Mate !

Getting married in Australia After you get married in Australia After you get married, on your wedding day, 3 marriage certificates must be signed by the couple (both the parties), your authorised marriage celebrant and 2 witnesses, who must be over 18 years old. Your authorised marriage celebrant will give you a certificate of marriage on the day. This is a ceremonial certificate of your marriage. Your celebrant must then (within 14 days of the marriage) submit your marriage paperwork to the registry of births, deaths and marriages in the state or territory you got married in. You should apply for a copy of your official marriage certificate from the registry. Your celebrant can do this on your behalf, generally at a cost. You will need this if you want to change your name or prove that you are married. Get married overseas Smartraveller website has information on getting married overseas. Overseas marriages cannot be performed by an Australian-

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authorised marriage celebrant and these cannot be registered in Australia. An overseas marriage is generally recognised in Australia if it was a valid marriage in the overseas country and would have been a valid marriage here. You may be able to use your overseas marriage certificate to prove that you got married. However, some states and territories don't accept overseas marriage certificates if you want to change your name. For more information, visit the website of your state or territory's registry of births, deaths and marriages.

LEGAL

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

15 15

Family Trust and the property division BY GURPAL SINGH

amily trusts are common legal structure used in Australia with multitude of benefits. Under section 4 of the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) (the Act) Family Trust is considered a property and are thus liable to be divided between the parties to the property division. The legal owners of the trust are known as trustees and are in charge of managing and administering assets for the benefits of the beneficiaries. To form a family trust, the settlor provides the trustee with the assets to be held for the beneficiaries. The settlor is a person responsible for setting up the trust and describing the beneficiaries, the trustee, and the appointer. The appointer is a person who has the power to change the trustee and is responsible for appointing and replacing the trustee or trustees if so required. The beneficiaries generally are family members who may benefit from the trust, such as parents, children and the grandchildren. In the event of bankruptcy, family trusts can protect assets from creditors, reduce tax rates and protect vulnerable family members from poor spending decisions. If one party is not listed as either the appointer or trustee but is indirectly controlling the trust, the trust could still form part of the asset pool. A trust may also be referred to as a ‘financial resource’ for financial resource is an asset that will generate income in the future, such as inheritance or a beneficiary’s interest in the trust. Once considered a financial resource, under section 75(2) of the Act, the court will take the trust into account as a potential future necessity for one or both the parties of

divorce. The powers of the court exercising jurisdiction under the Act to affect third parties who are entitled to be considered for distributions from a discretionary trust, or who exercise the responsibilities of trusteeship, are limited. In order for the assets to be treated as property for the purposes of the Act, it is necessary, but not sufficient, that a party to the marriage has control of the assets and the power to distribute to himself or herself, or the other spouse. The source of the assets must also be examined. Where the source of the trust assets is from someone other than a party to the marriage, there are third party beneficiaries who have rights to be considered, and neither party, and neither part to the marriage has an equitable proprietary interest in the fund, the trust property cannot be divided under section 79 or section 85A to the prejudice of

the third parties even where the conditions of control by a party to the marriage and power to distribute to one or other of them are met. The court cannot treat as property of the parties to the marriage or either of them assets which are under the control of third-party trustees under a party to the marriage has an equitable proprietary interest or has the power to appoint or remove the trustee. The court will consider various factors when dividing a family trust in the event of separation including the size of the trust, assets, establishment location, and the beneficiaries’ entitlements. Trust assets are unlikely to be excluded from a family settlement if the structure is such that individuals are receiving assets from the trust or an income from the family trust if it is intended that the family trust should not be included in the matrimonial pool available for distribution in any potential property settlements as a result of the relationship breakdown. In the matter of Kennon v Spry the family court pooled the assets of a 1968 family trust as the property of the marriage. This decision resulted in trust assets of a family trust forming part of the property pool in family law proceedings. It also resulted in the reversal updates to the discretionary trust which had removed the husband and wife as beneficiaries of the trust. The court considered three issues being control of the trust – directly or indirectly; who put the assets into the family trust and are they really your assets and who benefits from the family trust? Are distributions going to you or the new spouse/partner. The high court decision in Spry reveals the court’s power to dismantle trust structures.

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

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G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

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FEATURE

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

From Melbourne to Motherland: A Journey Back, A Step Forward Selected for the Know India Programme, Sahil Dhiman reconnects with India while shaping his future in Australia.

At 22, Sahil Dhiman stands at a meaningful crossroads. Raised in Australia from the age of three, and deeply connected to his Indian heritage, the young Australian citizen of Indian origin has been selected to participate in the 85th edition of the Know India Programme, a prestigious initiative of the Government of India aimed at strengthening ties with young members of the global Indian diaspora. For Sahil, the selection is not simply an accolade. It is an invitation to understand where he comes from, and how that heritage shapes where he is going. “Being selected for the Know India Programme is a very important moment for me,” Sahil says. “As an Australian of Indian origin, this opportunity allows me to learn more about my roots and understand India more closely. It has come at a stage of my life where learning and personal growth matter a lot.” Representing Australia, Sahil received his official travel ticket from Dr. Sushil Kumar, Consul General of India in Melbourne. It was a moment that transformed the experience from aspiration into reality. “Receiving my travel ticket from Dr. Sushil Kumar was a proud and special moment,” he reflects. “It made the journey feel real. Being recognised as a representative of Australia’s Indian community made me feel honoured and deeply thankful for the support and encouragement I received.” Growing up in Australia has given Sahil a strong sense of confidence and independence, shaped by a multicultural

society that values openness and opportunity. Yet, like many second-generation migrants, his Indian identity has remained firmly anchored in family, culture, and tradition. “Growing up here has given me a broader outlook,” he says. “At the same time, my Indian roots have stayed strong through family and culture. Through this journey, I hope to understand India better — its people, traditions, and progress — and strengthen my connection with my heritage.” The Know India Programme offers participants a rare opportunity to engage directly with India’s institutions, history, and

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contemporary development. For Sahil, the experience represents more than travel. It is a chance for reflection and recalibration. “When I think about this journey, I hope to return with a broader understanding and clearer thinking about my future,” he says. “I want to grow personally and appreciate India’s values, culture, and development in a deeper way.” Beyond personal growth, Sahil is conscious of the responsibility that comes with being selected for such a programme. His journey, he believes, can serve as a bridge for other young overseas Indians navigating questions of identity and belonging. “After completing the programme, I hope to share my experience with other young overseas Indians,” he says. “I want to encourage them to stay connected with their roots, learn more about India, and take part in opportunities that help build stronger ties between India and the global Indian community.” For the Indian community in Australia, Sahil’s selection is a quiet but powerful reminder of the growing role young people play in shaping future relationships between countries, cultures, and generations. As Sahil prepares to embark on this journey, his story reflects a broader narrative shared by many young Indian Australians. One of curiosity rather than distance. Of connection rather than nostalgia. And of a generation confident enough to explore its heritage while firmly rooted in the country it calls home. -Tonee Sethi

FEATURE

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

Where the Mustard Fields Meet the Southern Cross

In 1885, my family crossed an ocean. Long before Australia became a federation, Sikh pioneers from Punjab arrived on these shores. They came not as temporary visitors, but as founders who would help shape the nation through labour, faith, and resilience. That realisation sparked the heart of this story and its central truth: founders, not guests. Where the Mustard Fields Meet the Southern Cross traces that journey across generations, from the earliest Sikh presence in Australia to a moment of community recognition in the modern day. Once upon a time, in a green village in Punjab, a little boy named Teja Singh ran through fields of yellow mustard flowers. His grandmother often spoke softly as the wind moved through the crops. “Your grandfather sailed to Australia in 1885,” she told him. “He worked hard and kept his turban high.” Teja listened wide eyed, imagining a land beneath unfamiliar stars. As he grew older, the world around him shifted. Borders were drawn and families uprooted. During the upheaval of Partition, Teja carried with him the courage passed down through generations. In 1947, he stepped onto a ship in Bombay, bound for Australia. For more than a month, the sea rolled endlessly beneath him. Each night, he looked to the stars and whispered prayers to Guru Ramdas, asking for guidance across the waves. The ship carried more than passengers. It carried hope. When a fellow traveller fell ill, Teja shared his food and water without hesitation. One heart helping another, far from home.

Sydney greeted him with salty air and uncertainty. Life was not easy. His turban drew stares. Work was hard to find. Even water could be scarce. Whenever doubt crept in, Teja remembered his grandmother’s words. “Stand tall, my son.” He travelled north to the cane fields of Gordonvale in Queensland, cutting sugarcane under the blazing sun alongside other Sikh pioneers. At night, they shared roti and songs that drifted into the warm Australian sky. These unseen moments formed the foundations of a growing community. Years passed. Teja married and raised six children. At bedtime, he told them stories of Punjab’s rivers and Australia’s gum trees. Two worlds came together under one roof, forming a home grounded in faith, values, and belonging. As machines replaced manual labour, Teja dreamed of land

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to call his own. He moved to Woolgoolga, where green hills met the sea, and established banana farms that sustained both family and region. The work was demanding, but hope grew with every seed planted. Faith remained central to his life. Alongside others, he helped build some of the earliest gurdwaras in Australia, carrying bricks, painting walls, and singing as they worked. “Where people pray together, love grows,” Teja would say. He also helped establish Punjabi language classes and community festivals, ensuring the next generation understood who they were and where they came from. Neighbours from all backgrounds joined the celebrations, sharing food, music, and friendship. One day, Teja Singh was called to the Woolgoolga town hall. In recognition of his service and contribution, he was named Citizen of the Year. It marked a powerful moment, not just for one man, but for a community that had journeyed from pioneer to recognised pillar of Australian life. Today, Teja sits beneath the Southern Cross, reminding his grandchildren to be proud of who they are, to learn their language, to share their faith, and to help their neighbours. His story is one of many. A reminder that our place here is not new, and our contribution is enduring. No dream is too big when you remember where you come from and how far you can go. By Manmeet Bedi

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

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FEATURE

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

The Voice That Bridges Continents Sayeri Gupta Biswas on music, migration, and finding joy in Melbourne

When Sayeri Gupta Biswas begins to sing, the room shifts. Her voice carries the sweetness of nostalgia and the strength of discipline honed since childhood. A business advisor in Melbourne’s banking sector by day and a professional singer by night, she has built a life that harmonises responsibility with passion. Sayeri’s journey began in Silchar, a picturesque town in Assam’s lush northeast. Born into a deeply musical family—her mother a classical singer, her aunts equally gifted, her brother a tabla player—music was not a choice but a constant presence. “Every corner of our house was filled with music,” she recalls. “For us, it was like breathing.” She began lessons at the age of four, guided first by her mother and later by esteemed gurus, completing her Visharad in Hindustani classical music and training in Rabindra Sangeet and Nazrul Geeti. Her talent quickly found stages. In India, she performed on All India Radio, shared

platforms with her mother, and built her repertoire. But life had other plans. In 2015, she relocated to Melbourne with her husband, who had secured an IT placement. Suddenly, the secure rhythms of home gave way to the uncertainties of starting anew in a foreign land. “It wasn’t easy,” she admits. “Here, most artists cannot survive full-time on music. Performances are limited to weekends, while in India, musicians thrive through recordings, concerts, and interviews.” Yet, instead of allowing limitations to silence her, Sayeri began to build networks, seek collaborators, and carve out her own space in Melbourne’s diverse cultural landscape. Eight years on, she has her own musical group and has performed across Victoria, Sydney, and beyond. She collaborates with a rich circle of artists— through Kalaya Productions, which creates musical theatre, Melody Theatre, which composes original works, and Shoroluk, a Bengali ensemble. “I’ve been fortunate to work with artists from India, Bangladesh, Fiji, and Australia. Each collaboration has been a chance to learn and grow,” she says. Among her many performances, one remains unforgettable. Early in her Melbourne journey, she was singing Lata Mangeshkar’s timeless “Lag Jaa Gale” at a local restaurant. A woman in the audience approached her afterward, placed a $100 note in her hand, and blessed her. “She said I took her back to that era. She told me my voice reminded her of a young Lata ji.

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I know I am nowhere near Lata Ma, but that blessing… it was priceless. I still keep that note with me.” Her dual life—banking professional on weekdays, performer on weekends—speaks to resilience. But it also highlights her philosophy of success. “For me, success is happiness. If you love what you are doing and feel satisfied when you look at yourself in the mirror, that is success.” Happiness, too, has a simple definition for her: loving what you do, taking care of yourself, and being content. Yet, she admits there are things she misses about India—the spontaneous addas over chai with family and friends, and of course, the food. “Life here is busy, but those bonds of friendship and family are irreplaceable.” Sayeri is determined to use her voice not only for performance but also for community. “Music has the power to connect, heal, and change. I want to spread happiness and help people reconnect with their roots through music. That will be my true contribution.” The journey is far from over. With original compositions in the works, new collaborations on the horizon, and a vision to take her voice to every corner of the world, Sayeri Gupta Biswas continues to build bridges—between India and Australia, past and present, passion and profession. - Tonee Sethi

ADVERTORIAL

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

From the Pitch to the Pantry: Cricketer Nikhil Chaudhary Breaks New Ground

The Indian Australian cricketer becomes the first in the sport to represent a spice brand, partnering with Aunty Jenny Spices to champion flavour, discipline, and cultural pride in modern Australian kitchens. The partnership marks a defining moment at the intersection of performance, culture, and wellbeing, built on a shared belief that flavour, discipline, and health can coexist without compromise. For Chaudhary, an Indian-born athlete forging his career in Australian cricket, the collaboration is deeply personal. Raised in a culture where food, family, and spices are inseparable, he represents a generation of Indian Australians carrying their heritage forward in a modern, performance-driven context. “What we eat matters, not just nutritionally, but culturally and mentally,” says Chaudhary. “Food is fuel, but it is also memory, discipline, and connection. With Aunty Jenny Spices, healthy eating is not flavour-less, it is flavourfull.” This philosophy is increasingly supported by science. Research published in PLOS ONE suggests people are more likely to maintain healthy eating habits when enjoyment and taste are central to the experience. When food is framed purely around restriction or function, motivation and satisfaction can decline, particularly among high-performance individuals who rely on consistency and mental resilience. When flavour leads, healthier choices become sustainable. For generations, spices have been misunderstood. Often dismissed as indulgent or excessive, they have been unfairly positioned

as incompatible with “clean” or “healthy” eating. Yet for many Indian families, spices have long symbolised balance, nourishment, and care. At Aunty Jenny Spices, reclaiming that truth sits at the heart of the brand’s mission. Founded in Melbourne, the company focuses on transparent sourcing, no chemical additives, and freshly sealed blends designed for everyday cooking. Rather than treating spices as indulgences, Aunty Jenny Spices positions them as essentials, demonstrating that flavour can actively support mindful, health-conscious eating.

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In partnership with The Really Good People as distributor, Aunty Jenny Spices will roll out four of its bestselling blends, including its signature Butter Chicken Blend and Peri Peri Tandoori Blend, across 10 IGA stores nationwide from February 2026. The launch aims to make high-quality, trustworthy spices more accessible to everyday Australian kitchens. Co-founders Ramneek Wayne and Evangeline Tee say the collaboration represents a pivotal step in the brand’s growth. “We started this brand because spices may be small, but they matter,” they say. “There is a reason that food without spices feels empty. With Nikhil joining us as brand ambassador and the right distribution partners in place, we are excited to bring joy, flavour, and trust into homes across Australia.” For the Indian diaspora, Chaudhary’s ambassadorship carries added significance. It challenges the notion that heritage foods must be abandoned in pursuit of modern health standards, instead showing that cultural cooking can be responsible, relevant, and aligned with peak performance. While proudly Melbourne-based and culturally inclusive, the founders emphasise that partnerships like this honour the communities that shaped the brand. “This is not about labels or nostalgia,” the brand states. “It is about trust. Trust in the quality of ingredients, in traditions that have endured, and in the science that shows enjoyment is essential to long-term wellbeing. No one should have to settle for less when making better choices for themselves and their families.” More than a marketing announcement, the collaboration is a statement of intent. Aunty Jenny Spices is not simply selling spices. It is helping redefine what it means to cook, eat, and live well in modern Australia.

(GDI)

FEATURE

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

THE BEST WAYS TO TREAT A

Sun Tan

We live in a world where we take care of our skin more than we spend time healing our hearts, but who said we can’t look good while doing both. Tanning is one of the most common beauty problems. With India’s climate and scorching heat, we tend to get a suntan, no matter how hard we try.

and coconut oil have proven to be a great way to exfoliate and remove a suntan, especially from your arms, elbows, neck, and face. Several products are available in the market which offer amazing results when used 2-3 times a week.

Gram flour + Curd + Honey Homemade mask: When used Try the best sunscreen or even wear together in a mask, these 3 ingredients full-sleeved clothes; chances are that you consist of antioxidants, natural acids, and may still get a tan. Besides, if you love to enzymes that help lower inflammation groom, getting rid of a suntan would be on in the skin caused due to sun exposure, top of your list. fight bacteria, heal skin and reduce pigmentation. So, let’s dive deep into all you can do to treat a tan with these quick How can you make this mask? home remedies and/or products 4Take 2 spoons of fine gram powder that would work best for your 4 Add 2 spoons of honey and add 2 skin: spoons of fresh curd 4Mix thoroughly and keep aside Coconut Oil: This is the first and 4Wash your face with a mild face wash most common choice. Coconut oil is 4Dab your face with a towel packed with skin healing properties, from 4 Now, gently apply the mask to your inflammation to soothing the skin, it’s the face and neck. (You can apply the go-to for improving skin health. However, same mask on your arms or legs.) After one should note that it is recommended applying the mask, let it sit and dry for that you use coconut oil during the night over 10-15 mins and not during the day -- especially in 4 Once it is about to dry, use cold water the sun; as coconut oil is made of 90 per and scrub your face with the mixture on cent saturated fats and is thick in nature, your face. After massaging your face, allowing it to capture unwanted heat which wash it with cold water, and pat dry with might damage the skin further, instead of a soft towel. For best results, use this making it better. mask at least 2 times a week Scrub Grit: A fine scrub-like mixture of products like coffee, walnut, rock salt,

Moringa Oil: Rich in Vitamin E, antioxidants, and behenic acid, moringa

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oil is age-old healing and beautifying oil that helps in reducing stubborn blemishes, scar marks, and suntan. You can apply moringa oil before you go to bed to allow your skin to absorb the oil as much as possible and do its magic. Take a couple of oil droplets and massage them on your face, arms, neck, and wherever you feel you have got tan. You’ll see the result in a couple of days. In the end, we want you to know why it is essential for you to take care of your skin from the sun in the first place. Why is protecting skin important from sunlight? Sun is the most excellent source of Vitamin D; however, even mild exposure to UV rays can affect our skin in more ways than we even know. If we spend excessive time under the sun, it can lead to temporary or permanent skin issues like sunburn or even skin cancer. So, it’s best you apply sunscreen before you step out, and also indulge in some skin healing therapies in case you spend too much time outdoors. By N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe

FEATURE

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

Bridging Cultures Through Pages Author Jamel Singh of ‘The World is Our Playground Series’ brings multiculturalism to life for young Australians through stories of food, family and friendship

food is framed purely around restriction or function, motivation and satisfaction can decline, particularly among high-performance individuals who rely on consistency and mental resilience. When flavour leads, healthier choices become sustainable. For generations, spices have been misunderstood. Often dismissed as indulgent or excessive, they have been unfairly positioned as incompatible with “clean” or “healthy” eating. Yet for many Indian families, spices have long symbolised balance, nourishment, and care. At Aunty Jenny Spices, reclaiming that truth sits at the heart of the brand’s mission. Founded in Melbourne, the company focuses on transparent sourcing, no chemical additives, and freshly sealed blends designed for everyday cooking. Rather than treating spices as indulgences, Aunty Jenny Spices positions them as essentials, demonstrating that flavour can actively support mindful, health-conscious eating. In partnership with The Really Good People

www.gdayindia.com.au | M: 0412-114-383

as distributor, Aunty Jenny Spices will roll out four of its bestselling blends, including its signature Butter Chicken Blend and Peri Peri Tandoori Blend, across 10 IGA stores nationwide from February 2026. The launch aims to make high-quality, trustworthy spices more accessible to everyday Australian kitchens. Co-founders Ramneek Wayne and Evangeline Tee say the collaboration represents a pivotal step in the brand’s growth. “We started this brand because spices may be small, but they matter,” they say. “There is a reason that food without spices feels empty. With Nikhil joining us as brand ambassador and the right distribution partners in place, we are excited to bring joy, flavour, and trust into homes across Australia.” For the Indian diaspora, Chaudhary’s ambassadorship carries added significance. It challenges the notion that heritage foods must be abandoned in pursuit of modern health standards, instead showing that cultural cooking can be responsible, relevant, and aligned with peak performance. While proudly Melbourne-based and culturally inclusive, the founders emphasise that partnerships like this honour the communities that shaped the brand. “This is not about labels or nostalgia,” the brand states. “It is about trust. Trust in the quality of ingredients, in traditions that have endured, and in the science that shows enjoyment is essential to long-term wellbeing. No one should have to settle for less when making better choices for themselves and their families.” More than a marketing announcement, the collaboration is a statement of intent. Aunty Jenny Spices is not simply selling spices. It is helping redefine what it means to cook, eat, and live well in modern Australia.

(GDI)

FEATURE

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

GET OVER SOCIAL ANXIETY IN 5 STEPS

Model-actor Darasing Khurana, an active philanthropist, came up with the Pause.Breathe. Talk Foundation to help those who suffer from a mental condition and to offer mental health services to the needy. Khurana launched the foundation after the sudden death of actor Sushant Singh Rajput last year.

The Pause.Breathe. Talk Foundation has several psychologists and psychiatrists in the panel, who have been helping the needy for over a year. During this time, he realised that many people suffer from social anxiety, a serious mental health condition, where every day social interactions cause anxiety, fear or embarrassment. So Darasing, who’s also a socially active celebrity along with leading experts in the field have come up with five things to overcome social anxiety. Here’s what they suggest: 4Watch your breathing Breathing techniques are often recommended to promote relaxation or for dealing with stress or anxiety attacks. When you breathe, your blood cells receive oxygen and release carbon dioxide. When people are anxious, however, they tend to take rapid, shallow breaths from the chest. Whenever you are anxious, focus on your breathing. Breathe in, hold your breath and count till 5, and then breathe out. If you do this for 70-80 times, you’ll definitely feel calmer.

When we feel anxious, our body is primed for fight or flight, and releases the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline; this can cause elevated blood pressure, a racing heart, and sweating. Exercise can help us burn off the negative energy that, in our more primitive days, would have been used either fleeing, or fighting, a threat. You could take 4Behaviour modification is a must a brisk walk, put on your running shoes and hit the tarmac, or jump around to an Remember, nothing will change around you! The aerobics video or your favourite music in social situation will continue to remain the way your living room. Regular exercise and it is. So, the best way is to plan thoroughly for meditation really help in keeping one a social situation that makes you nervous. For centred. That’s something you must do if instance, if it’s about going on a date, you should you want to overcome social anxiety. plan for each and every aspect of it. The idea is to recognise what triggers your anxiety and try to 4Open up, meet the experts minimise the activities that might trigger anxiety. Also, if you feel socially anxious and you want to Communication is the key in work on it, you must start going out with people all mental health conditions. who are close to you and who will take care of Sharing your feelings and you when you’re feeling anxious. speaking to people around you is pertinent. Listening is also important at times. Imagine 4Have a gratitude journal something is triggering your anxiety, which is a result of negative thoughts about you You must write down the positive things that that come to your mind again and again. If happened with you throughout the day. One you shift the focus of your thoughts towards thing that counters anxiety a lot is gratitude. someone else, that also helps in containing Initially, it might look a bit fake and may the anxiety. Also, make sure you reach demand a lot of effort, but you must still do it. out to a psychologist and a psychiatrist. Initially, your negative thoughts might be too Professional guidance is a must if you want overpowering, but you must understand the the best results. It’s imperative to use these negative thoughts are already there within you, two services simultaneously rather than so you must cultivate thoughts of gratitude to giving importance to one and skipping the balance things out. other. Medication and therapy are equally important. By Puja Gupta 4Sweat it out

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FEATURE

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

FIVE BEST TRAIN JOURNEYS WITHIN INDIA

Trains in India are special and are one of the most reliable and affordable modes of long-distance transportation. Despite all the great things that they offer, one factor stands paramount: the unparalleled scenic beauty that we experience during the journey. A window to the unmarred beauty of nature, and even the briefest glimpses make a train journey exciting. Dinesh Kumar Kotha, Co-Founder & CEO, Confirmtkt, shares a list of five Indian journeys by rail that one should never miss out on:

1. Kalka to Shimla on The Himalayan Queen: It can be best described as a 96 km dream journey. Started in 1903, this train transports you through 102 tunnels and 82 bridges. You also get to experience the steepest rise in altitude. For five hours, you are immersed in scenic beauties that are primarily showcased in Indian cinema. You will be travelling upwards till you reach Shimla, and there you get to gape at the stunning beauty that Pine and Oak trees, valleys, and an abundance of rhododendrons provide. This journey has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008, and the picturesque treat it provides justifies the honour.

2. Vasco Da Gama to Londa: Much like the explorer, its derived name, this journey is explorative. From Goa to Karnataka, you get to witness the unique environment that Goan villages showcase. As the journey proceeds and you glide across the Western Ghats, you bear witness to the most breathtaking views of the Western Ghats and its picturesque waterfalls. You get to treat yourself to nature’s best sights for almost 145 kms. This journey is recommended, especially after the monsoon season, as you get the added treat of viewing the vibrant red of the clay soil.

3. Kanyakumari to Thiruvananthapuram: This route is a testament to the fact that great things come in small packages. This is probably the shortest train route on the list, yet it holds no comparison to the sensory experience it can provide. It takes you through lush coconut groves and the best view of the bewildering Tamilian and Kerala architecture. You will be constantly surprised at the grandeur of the temples and the uniqueness of the Keralite churches throughout the journey. 4. Matheran Hill Railway: This train is truly special when it comes to its historical relevance. The train tracks were laid down by Akbar Peerbhoy somewhere between 1901 to 1907. It is also the only re-

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maining heritage railway in Maharashtra. While on the train, you get to explore the tranquillity of nature for about 20 kms on the narrow-gauge rail lines. Combined with the desolate ambience, the view is both eerie and exciting and genuinely a definite thing to experience.

5. New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling on The Toy Train: Unlike its name, the train is very much real, and a journey on it can be fascinating. The tiny steam-operated train moving at a speed of 12 km/hr takes you through an immersive journey. In 7 hrs 15 mins, you get a chance to view dense forests, bountiful tea plantations and experience travelling the spiral at Agony point. This journey is best taken during a clear day, as you get to see the snow-capped tip of Kanchenjunga. Trains are an engineering marvel, and the routes listed above are guaranteed to provide you with an amazing experience. The glimpses of extensive farmlands, astounding hill regions, lush flower beds, and the calming presence of still river water can produce a surreal effect. So next time if you’re thinking of taking a break from the rut of daily life, consider these journeys. By Puja Gupta

RELATIONSHIP

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

FREQUENT CHALLENGES FACED BY SINGLE PARENTS Single parenting refers to a parent who brings up children without the assistance of a partner. There are a variety of reasons why a single parent may raise a child without the assistance of a partner. It’s possible that they were formerly involved in a relationship that ended, other parents may choose to raise their children, and in certain situations, a partner may have died. Children raised by single parents can be just as happy and emotionally healthy as children living with two biological parents. Whether a child has one parent or more, children do well when they have parenting that’s nurturing, warm, sensitive, responsive and flexible. Being a single parent can come with its own set of challenges, depending on whether it’s by separation or by choice of adoption. Children can be frightened by the strong emotions that go along with separation. If you’re a single parent experiencing separation, it’s good to tell your child that both parents love them and that the separation isn’t your child’s fault. Frequent Single Parent Challenges 4Negotiating custody and visitation 4Navigating financial issues 4Obtaining health care 4Finding additional role models 4Helping children deal with loss 4 Helping children understand their family dynamics 4Acquiring support in child care

details that might have caused you to stress in the past. Focus instead on what you have and can do to keep your kid happy and healthy. The value of spending time with your child cannot be replaced by toys, clothes, or technology. Don’t focus on the negative: If your child does have contact with his or her other parent, you shouldn’t use them to deliver messages. You also should not criticize or complain about your ex-spouse or partner in front of them. Don’t focus on what “could have been”, the past relationship with your ex, or mistakes that you may have made along the way. Bitterness and anger will only distract you and possibly model unhealthy reactions for your child. And rather than sharing negative stereotypes, find positive role models for your child for the gender of the missing or absent parent. Communicate and be Consistent: Routines will provide stability for your child and traditions will give you both tasks and events to look forward to throughout the year. If your child has lost the other parent to death, or if the other parent chose not to be involved in your child’s life, they may fear abandonment. Allow them to feel comfortable expressing their own thoughts and feelings about family issues and non-family issues. It might be challenging to answer difficult questions, but open communications will strengthen your relationship.

These challenges can further get complicated by the way the child is responding to his/her unique family experiences. However, these challenges can be navigated through being mindful of some aspects of single parenting: You might not be able to prepare every meal or keep everything in the house spotless. Being a parent requires you to readjust your priorities. Spending time with your children and taking care of yourself should outweigh other To

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demonstrate to your child that you won’t hide from tough questions or sweep them under the rug. Take care of yourself: Pay careful attention to how you care for and neglect your mental, physical, and emotional health. Whether it’s finding time for a hobby or continuing your education, finding even just a few minutes a day to work on your own dreams and wants will improve your life which keeps you motivated, as motivated people are happier people, and in turn better parents. Seek out enough reliable help: The most effective single parents make use of their support networks. If you isolate yourself and try to do everything on your own, you might feel overwhelmed. Involve friends, family members, and other members of the community in your life and your child’s life. Encourage your child to form strong bonds with the other members of his or her family, peers, teachers, coaches and mentors. Single parenthood may have its unique challenges, but with an open mind and open arms to let others love you and your child, amazing things can happen. What steps can you take today to support your child and build a thriving single-parent family? By Asha Vaghasia

LIFESTYLE

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

PEOPLE ARE SELFISH WITH MASSES AND GENEROUS TO INDIVIDUALS

The general public in recent years has steadily lost their confidence in economic authorities, financial institutions, and particularly corporate managers. They think that economic actors will go to any length for-profits, which includes harming fellow human beings and large groups. Yet, modern behavioural economics and psychology tell a completely different story. Laboratory data has shown that people willingly share monetary gains with others, dislike inequality, and are very often generous. Recent evidence shows that dishonesty levels as measured in certain laboratory tasks are surprisingly low. The message is that people are prosocial and, if given the opportunity, cheat just a little. These findings have been published in the journal ‘Nature Human Behaviour’. Opportunity to rob half of the gains from others How can both observations be simultaneously true? Are high-level economic actors simply different? To find out, Carlos Alos-Ferrer, NOMIS Professor for Decision and Neuroeconomic Theory at the University of Zurich and his team designed the Big Robber Game, an experimental setting with 640 participants in a standard student sample. Students were placed in groups of 32, where all subjects were engaged in some remunerated activity and earned the same amount of money.

take the maximum was taken on average more quickly than the decision to refrain from it, revealing a weaker moral struggle in the former case. However, the very same study participants displayed predominantly prosocial behaviour in standard bilateral games. When asked how they wanted to split 10 Euros with just one other participant, they voluntarily transferred some money, even when the other person was powerless to retaliate if no money came. In general, their actions revealed that they disliked inequality. “Thus, the very same people displayed selfishness in the large high-impact decisions affecting a large group and generosity in the small bilateral, low-stakes interactions”, Alos-Ferrer resumes.

“This behaviour arose spontaneously within our student population, with no significant differences due to gender or field of studies. Therefore, there is no need for arguments about high-level economic actors being different. The roots of corporate scandals seem to be in all of us.” Trade-off between personal gain and other-regarding concerns The finding that people behave selfishly toward a large group while being generous toward individuals suggests that harming many individuals might be easier than harming just one, in line with existing evidence that people are more willing to help one individual rather than many. According to the authors, the study also reflects the trade-off between personal gain and other-regarding concerns: When facing an individual in a bilateral game, appropriating a given monetary amount can result in a large interpersonal difference. When appropriating income from a large group of people, the same personal gain involves a smaller percentual difference, and hence it is more likely to offset the inequality aversion. Alos-Ferrer: “In economically relevant situations, many human decision-makers might be willing to inflict significant harm on a relatively large number of people for personal gain, as long as that gain is of sufficient magnitude. Even more strikingly, in Western societies, 100 Euros might already be enough.

(ANI)

Half of the participants, the robbers, were given the opportunity to anonymously steal half the earnings of the other 16 members of their group (and one of the 16 robber’s decisions was actually implemented), which corresponded to more or less 100 Euros. But they could also steal less, say one-third, or one-tenth or nothing at all. So, what did they do? Overwhelmingly ruthless in anonymous groups More than half of all robbers went to the extreme and took the maximum possible, which was half of the earnings of all others. Over 80 per cent took one-third or more and almost nobody declined to rob. The students revealed an overwhelming willingness to inflict significant monetary harm to a large group of others. Furthermore, the decision to

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HEALTH

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

JUST 10 MINS

OF INTENSIVE WORKOUTS DAILY CAN HELP KEEP BOWEL CANCER AT BAY Short bursts of energetic activity for 10 minutes daily could not only increase your fitness levels, but also help fight bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, according to a study. The study by researchers at Newcastle University showed that short and intense exercise activity can trigger rapid molecular changes in the bloodstream, shutting down bowel cancer growth and speeding up DNA damage repair. They found that exercise increases the concentration of several small molecules in the blood -- many linked to reducing inflammation, improving blood vessel function, and metabolism. When these exercise-induced molecules were applied to bowel cancer cells in the lab, the activity of more than 1,300 genes was altered, including those involved in DNA repair, energy production, and cancer cell growth. The findings, published in the International Journal of Cancer, help explain one way exercise can protect

against bowel cancer: by sending molecular signals in the bloodstream that influence the activity of genes that govern tumor growth and genome instability. “What’s remarkable is that exercise doesn’t just benefit healthy tissues, it sends powerful signals through the bloodstream that can directly influence thousands of genes in cancer cells,” said Dr. Sam Orange, Senior Lecturer in Clinical Exercise Physiology at Newcastle University, who led the study. “It’s an exciting insight because it opens the door to finding ways that mimic or augment the biological effects of exercise, potentially improving cancer treatment and, crucially, patient outcomes. In the future, these insights could lead to new therapies that imitate the beneficial effects of exercise on how cells repair damaged DNA and use fuel for energy,” Orange added. The team found that exercise boosted the activity of genes that support mitochondrial energy metabolism, enabling cells to use oxygen more efficiently. At the same time, genes linked to rapid cell

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growth were switched off, which could reduce the aggressiveness of cancer cells, and exercise-conditioned blood promoted DNA repair, activating a key repair gene called PNKP. The study involved 30 volunteers, male and female, aged 50-78, all overweight or obese (a risk factor of cancer) but otherwise healthy. After completing a short, intense cycling test lasting approximately 10 minutes, researchers collected blood samples and analyzed 249 proteins. As many as 13 proteins increased after exercise, including interleukin-6 (IL-6), which helps repair the DNA of damaged cells. “These results suggest that exercise doesn’t just benefit healthy tissues; it may also create a more hostile environment for cancer cells to grow. Even a single workout can make a difference. One bout of exercise, lasting just 10 minutes, sends powerful signals to the body. It’s a reminder that every step, every session, counts when it comes to doing your best to protect your health,” Orange said. (ANI)

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

BEETROOT JUICE CAN LOWER BLOOD PRESSURE IN ELDERLY Older adults with high blood pressure may benefit from drinking beetroot juice, claimed a study. The blood pressure-lowering effect of nitrate-rich beetroot juice in older individuals may be attributed to specific changes in their oral microbiome, according to a study led by researchers at the University of Exeter in the UK. Nitrate is crucial to the body and is consumed as a natural part of a vegetable-rich diet. In the study, when the older adults drank a concentrated beetroot juice ‘shot’ twice a day for two weeks, their blood pressure decreased. However, the effect was not observed in the younger group, as revealed by the findings published in the journal Free Radical Biology and Medicine. “This study shows that nitrate-rich foods alter the oral microbiome in a way that could result in less inflammation, as well as a lowering of blood pressure in older people. This paves the way for larger studies to explore the influence of

lifestyle factors and biological sex in how people respond to dietary nitrate supplementation,” said Professor Andy Jones, of the University of Exeter. The study recruited 39 adults aged under 30 and 36 adults in their 60s and 70s who spent two weeks taking regular doses of nitraterich beetroot juice and two weeks on a placebo version of the juice with nitrate stripped out.

therefore the regulation of blood pressure, the researchers explained. “The good news is that if you don’t like beetroot, there are many nitrate-rich alternatives like spinach, rocket, fennel, celery, and kale,” added Professor Anni Vanhatalo, from the varsity. (IANS)

The older age group experienced a notable decrease in the potentially harmful mouth bacteria Prevotella after drinking the nitrate-rich juice, and an increase in the growth of bacteria known to benefit health, such as Neisseria. The team said that an imbalance between beneficial and harmful oral bacteria can decrease the conversion of nitrate (abundant in vegetable-rich diets) to nitric oxide. Nitric oxide is crucial to the healthy functioning of the blood vessels, and

ORAL BACTERIUM MAY WORSEN DISABILITY IN MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS PATIENTS Abundance of severe gum disease -periodontitis -- may worsen disability for people with multiple sclerosis, a chronic autoimmune disease of the central nervous system. Previous studies have shown that periodontitis may contribute to central nervous system disorders through chronic inflammation. However, its role in multiple sclerosis has been unclear. The new research, published in the journal Scientific Reports, found that high levels of Fusobacterium nucleatum -- a bacterium found in the mouth -- were associated with about tenfold higher odds of severe disability in multiple sclerosis patients. “While the gut microbiome has been extensively investigated in multiple sclerosis, the potential involvement of the oral microbiome has remained largely unexplored. Because the oral cavity is a major source of chronic inflammation and represents a potentially modifiable factor, clarifying its relationship with multiple sclerosis severity is important for understanding disease mechanisms and developing new preventive strategies,” said Masahiro Nakamori, an associate professor and lecturer at Hiroshima University Hospital.

The team noted that nearly two-thirds (61.5 per cent) of multiple sclerosis patients with a high relative abundance of Fusobacterium nucleatum fell into the moderate-to-severe disability range, compared with roughly one-fifth (18.6 per cent) of those with milder disease. No such association was observed in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder or myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease. MS patients with both Fusobacterium nucleatum and at least one other periodontal pathogen showed even higher disability. “Fusobacterium nucleatum may act as a hidden ‘bridge bacterium’ -- not only bridging bacterial communities in dental biofilms, but also potentially linking oral inflammation to neurological disability,” said Nakamori. MS is a central inflammatory demyelinating disease that targets the myelin sheath, the protective layer that wraps around some nerve cells. While the specific cause of multiple sclerosis remains unknown, viral infections, smoking, vitamin deficiencies, and genetic predispositions are thought to be possible contributing factors.

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The team now hopes to conduct larger, multi-center studies to validate the association between oral bacteria and multiple sclerosis severity. (IANS)

HEALTH

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

Type 2 diabetes quietly rewires heart, raises risk of failures Type 2 diabetes quietly changes the heart structure and how it produces energy, thus increasing the risk of heart failure, according to a study. Researchers at the University of Sydney, Australia, studied donated human hearts and found that diabetes disrupts how heart cells produce energy, weakens the muscle’s structure, and triggers a buildup of stiff, fibrous tissue that makes it harder for the heart to pump. These effects were most pronounced in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy-- the leading cause of heart failure. The findings, published in the journal EMBO Molecular Medicine, can help explain why people living with diabetes face a much higher risk of developing heart failure. “We’ve long seen a correlation between heart disease and type 2 diabetes, but this is the first research to jointly look at diabetes and ischemic heart disease and uncover a unique molecular profile in people with both conditions,” said Dr. Benjamin Hunter, from the School of Medical Sciences. “Our findings show that diabetes alters how the heart produces energy, maintains its

structure under stress, and contracts to pump blood. Using advanced microscopy techniques, we were able to see direct changes to the heart muscle as a result of this, in the form of a buildup of fibrous tissue,” he added. To better understand how diabetes affects the heart, the researchers studied heart tissue from both transplant recipients and healthy individuals. This direct examination allowed them to see how diabetes influences heart biology in real human patients rather than relying solely on animal models. The results showed that diabetes is more

than a co-morbidity for heart disease. It actively accelerates heart failure by interfering with essential biological processes and reshaping the heart muscle at the microscopic level. “The metabolic effect of diabetes in the heart is not fully understood in humans,” said Hunter. In healthy hearts, energy is mainly generated from fats, with glucose and ketones also contributing. Previous research has shown that glucose use increases during heart failure. However, diabetes interferes with this process by reducing how sensitive heart cells are to insulin. (IANS)

How Junk Food Fuels Disease and Early Death Regular eating of fast foods, ranging from deep-fried snacks Regular eating of fast foods, ranging from deep-fried snacks served as street food to quick-service restaurant chains, can cause serious damage to health, which can, in the long run, lead to several diseases, including cancer and cardiovascular conditions, contributing to death, said experts.

tuberculosis, or severe appendicitis. The two main causes of ulcers of the stomach and duodenum are Helicobacter pylori infection and excessive intake of painkillers,” he added. Eating fast food is known to increase weight gain, cause inadequate nutritional intake, digestive issues, energy crashes, and mood swings. These can contribute to obesity, diabetes and hypertension, and poor mental health, and more -- all of which can lead to mortality in the long term.

The doctors said this as social media was recently flooded with viral posts claiming that an 11th-grade student from Amroha district in Uttar Pradesh, admitted at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi in December, died due to excessive consumption of junk food. While the girl’s family asserted that she was suffering from an intestinal infection that ultimately led to her death, media reports revealed that the girl was facing multiple health issues, including severe typhoid and complaints of tuberculosis.

Studies have shown that fast food consumption is associated with “all-cause mortality,” meaning a higher overall risk of dying early. Unhealthy diets, including fast food, contribute to approximately 1.1 crore deaths worldwide annually.

Doctors at the AIIMS declared that her death resulted from cardiac arrest.

for perforation of the intestine,” Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan, Ex-President of IMA Cochin and Convener of the Research Cell, Kerala said.

“While habitual excessive consumption leads to obesity, fatty liver, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia, it is definitely not a cause

“In a young Indian adult, in the absence of trauma, the main causes of intestinal perforation are duodenal ulcer, typhoid,

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“Regular eating of fast food can silently damage the heart, liver, and blood vessels. It leads to obesity, high sugar and high BP, increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke and sudden death -- even in young people who appear otherwise healthy,” Prof. Dr Naresh Bansal, Dept of Gastro, at a leading Delhibased hospital, said.

(IANS)

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

Disrupted sleep cycles linked to aggressive breast cancer Women working on the night shift or frequently flying across time zones, where they experience an irregular sleep schedule, may increase their risk of aggressive breast cancer, according to a study. The team from the Texas A&M University College of Arts and Sciences explained that circadian disruptions change the structure of mammary glands and weaken the immune system’s defences, all the while pointing toward a new way to counteract these effects. “Cancer keeps time. If your internal clock is disrupted, cancer takes advantage -- but now we’ve found a new way to fight back,” said Dr. Tapasree Roy Sarkar, Co-Director of the Center for Statistical Bioinformatics at Texas A&M University College of Arts and Sciences. Circadian rhythms -- our internal 24-hour clock -- do far more than regulate sleep. They help coordinate hormone release, tissue repair, and the immune system’s surveillance. When disrupted, the body’s natural defences begin to falter. “The circadian rhythm orchestrates how our tissues function, and how our immune system

recognizes danger,” Sarkar said. “When that rhythm is disrupted, the consequences can be seriously dangerous.” To investigate these effects, the researchers used two groups of genetically engineered models that develop aggressive breast cancer. One group lived on a normal day-night schedule, while the other lived on a disrupted light cycle that threw off their internal clocks. The findings, published in the journal Oncogene, showed that typical models develop cancer around the 22-week marker. The circadian-disrupted group, however, showed signs of cancer much earlier -- at almost 18 weeks. Tumours in circadian-disrupted models were also far more aggressive and far more likely to spread to the lungs, a key indicator of poor outcomes in breast cancer patients. At the same time, disruption of the models’ internal clock suppressed immune defences, creating a more hospitable environment for cancer growth.

Sarkar said. “The immune system was actively restrained, creating more favourable conditions for cancer cells to survive and spread.” But the effects weren’t just limited to the tumours themselves. The researchers also found that long-term circadian disruption changed the makeup of healthy breast tissue, making it more vulnerable to cancer. “We observed clear changes in the morphology of the mammary glands, the milkproducing tissue of the breast,” Sarkar said. (IANS)

“It wasn’t just that tumours grew faster,”

Drink black tea, eat berries,

apples to age healthy Want to age healthy? Higher intakes of black tea, berries, citrus fruits, and apples may help, according to global research. Researchers from Edith Cowan University (Australia), Queen’s University Belfast (UK), and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health (US), found that foods rich in flavonoids could help to lower the risk of key components of unhealthy ageing, including frailty, impaired physical function and poor mental health. “The goal of medical research is not just to help people live longer but

to ensure they stay healthy for as long as possible,” said Dr Nicola Bondonno, Adjunct Lecturer at Edith Cowan. Previous studies have showed people who have a higher flavonoid intake tend to live longer, and they are also less likely to get any of the major chronic diseases such as dementia, diabetes, or heart disease. “Our research shows that people who consume more flavonoids tend to age better,” Bondonno said. The study, which analysed

data from 62,743 women and 23,687 men over 24 years, found that women with the highest flavonoid intakes had a 15 per cent lower risk of frailty, a 12 per cent lower risk of impaired physical function, and a 12 per cent lower risk of poor mental health compared to those with the lowest intakes. While fewer associations were observed in men, higher flavonoid intake was still linked to a lower risk of poor mental health. “Flavonoids are well known for reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, supporting blood vessel health, and even helping to maintain skeletal muscle mass -- all of which are important for preventing frailty and maintaining physical function and mental health as we age,” said Professor Aedin Cassidy from Queens. Further, the study showed that participants who increased their intake of flavonoid-rich food by three servings a day had a 6 per cent to 11 per cent lower risk across all three ageing outcomes in females, and a 15 per cent lower risk of poor mental health in males. “Overall, these findings underscore the potential for simple dietary modifications to impact the overall quality of life and contribute to the optimisation of healthy ageing,” added Professor Eric Rimm from Harvard. (IANS)

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G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

ASRANI SHINES IN ONE OF HIS FINAL ROLES ALONGSIDE DHARMENDRA IN ‘IKKIS’ Veteran actor Asrani delivered one of his last performances in Sriram Raghavan’s war biopic ‘Ikkis’, sharing screen space with Bollywood legend Dharmendra, who, like Asrani, passed away before the film’s release. The scene, which features Asrani in a brief guest appearance alongside Dharmendra, has stirred heartfelt nostalgia and emotion among fans for witnessing the icons together for one final time. Fan reactions have been going viral on social media platforms, with many sharing their thoughts on the moment and recalling cinematic memories for both actors. One wrote, “Legends like Dharam ji and Asrani ji being part of this true story adds so much heart.” Prior to the film’s release, director Sriram Raghavan spoke about Asrani’s role in the film and shared, “We have Asrani in the

film. He’s got a small guest appearance, and Asrani and Dharam Ji have a scene together. When we began this movie, we had no idea. But a lot of things sort of came together.” With that said, while ‘Ikkis’ marks one of the late Asrani’s final performances, it is also the legendary Dharmendra’s last appearance on the big screen.

Comedy legend Govardhan Asrani passed away on October 20, 2025, at the age of 84, leaving an irreplaceable legacy of laughter and impeccable comic timing. In his celebrated career spanning over five decades, Asrani appeared in more than 350 films, including classics such as ‘Chupke Chupke’, ‘Bawarchi’, ‘Rafoo Chakkar’, and ‘Sholay’, where his eccentric jail warden remains unforgettable. Notably, both Asrani and Dharmendra were also a part of Ramesh Sippy’s classic hit ‘Sholay’, bringing one of their most memorable roles. Meanwhile, Sriram Raghavan’s ‘Ikkis’ is a war biopic based on Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra. The film also stars Jaideep Ahlawat, Simar Bhatia, Suhasini Mulay, Sikander Kher, and Rahul Dev.’” (ANI)

HRITHIK ROSHAN RETURNS TO PAGES HE

“UNDERLINED 25 YEARS AGO”

Actor Hrithik Roshan gave fans a peek into his everyday life, where fitness and family time go hand in hand. The actor posted on Instagram to share moments from his day, sharing how he spends time with his sons while focusing on his health. Hrithik posted a series of pictures from different parts of his day. In one of the pictures, the ‘Krrish’ actor is seen running across an open field, wearing a T-shirt, trousers, and a cap. Another photo shows him sitting by a swimming pool without a shirt, reading a book quietly. In another image, the actor is seen working out. The post also featured moments with his sons, Hrehaan and Hridhaan. Some pictures show the two enjoying their time in the swimming pool. In one frame, Hrithik is seen sitting outdoors and talking with his elder son, Hrehaan. In the last few slides, he shared close-up photos of the book he was reading, Flow by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi. Along with the pictures, Hrithik shared a personal note about the book and his thoughts. He wrote, “Rereading pages I underlined 25 years ago. I think it’s all finally coming together in my head now. What fun. Finding flow states.

That’s everything. Thank you, Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, for this one. #FLOW.” Recently, Hrithik was also seen at the wedding of his cousin, Eshaan Roshan. A video of Hrithik dancing with his sons from the wedding went viral on social media. Soon after the video began circulating online, netizens started praising the boys for their dance moves. The actor attended the pre-wedding ceremony as well, along

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with his girlfriend Saba Azad and his sons. Hrithik was seen posing for pictures with Saba and the children. His former wife, Sussanne Khan, also attended the wedding with her partner Arslan Goni. On the work front, Hrithik Roshan was last seen in Ayan Mukerji’s ‘War 2,’ which also stars Jr NTR and Kiara Advani.’”

(ANI)

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

FILMMAKERS TO THINK “OUT OF BOX” - RAKESH BEDI Actor Rakesh Bedi expressed his happiness on the success of ‘Dhurandhar’, calling it an “inspiration” for the film industry. Rakesh Bedi played a politician in the film ‘Dhurandhar’, which stars Ranveer Singh, Akshaye Khanna, Arjun Rampal, Sanjay Dutt, and others in lead roles. Rakesh Bedi highlighted the overwhelming response to Dhurandhar, describing it as something every filmmaker dreams of. “Not every project gets this kind of love. What is happening for Dhurandhar, all the people working in our film industry, whether they are directors, producers or writers, they yearn for this day. It is happening so fast that the number of films and shows is increasing. Night shows are also adding up. Early morning shows are also adding up. The film industry has seen this success after a long time,” said Rakesh Bedi. Calling it a moment to celebrate for the entire film fraternity, he added that the film’s performance should inspire others to think “out of the box.” “I think it is a time to celebrate for everybody, not only for the Dhurandhar team, for the entire fraternity, because where do you get this success? You should take inspiration from this. If you do something out of the box, then the film will do well,” said Rakesh Bedi.

has been warm response from audiences nationwide. Dhurandhar’s phenomenal performance is also reflected in its overall two-week figures. Directed by Aditya Dhar, ‘Dhurandhar’ follows the story of an Indian spy named Hamza who deeply infiltrates Pakistan to join Rehman Dakait’s gang. The film is inspired by real-life events, ranging from the 2001 Parliament attack and the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack. In addition to Ranveer Singh, the film features Akshaye Khanna, Arjun Rampal, R Madhavan, Sanjay Dutt, and Sara Arjun in key roles. Aditya Dhar’s action-adventure ‘Dhurandhar’ has also registered houseful shows across several centres in Jammu & Kashmir, including smaller towns such as Shopian and Pulwama, where theatrical exhibition has remained limited. Strong audience turnout at these locations indicates renewed demand for cinema-going in the region, underscoring the appetite for big-screen entertainment even in towns without multiplex infrastructure. Dhurandhar Part Two is set to release on March 19, 2026.”

‘Dhurandhar’ starring Ranveer Singh

(ANI)

WORK MORE, SPEND MORE TIME WITH FAMILY IN 2026: SHAHID KAPOOR As 2025 wraps up, it’s time to embrace new ideas and make resolutions for the coming year. However, Bollywood star Shahid Kapoor does not believe in waiting for the New Year to bring about change, stressing that personal growth should happen whenever one feels the need for it. Speaking about his New Year’s resolution, Shahid said he prefers to act on his instincts rather than wait for the time to change. “If I feel like I want to change something, I change it. I don’t wait for the end of the year,” he said, adding that he is content with his current journey, both personally and professionally.

I’m doing, and I hope to work more, spend more time with family and spread a few more smiles and a little more love,” he said. On the professional front, Shahid Kapoor has an eventful year ahead. He is set to reunite with filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj for the action thriller O’ Romeo, marking their collaboration after ‘Kaminey’, ‘Haider’ and ‘Rangoon’. The film, produced by Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment, also stars Tripti Dimri and veteran actor Nana Patekar and is slated for a Valentine’s Day release. Apart from ‘O’ Romeo’, Shahid also has ‘Cocktail 2’ in the pipeline alongside Kriti Sanon and Rashmika Mandanna. Known for his versatility across genres, the actor remains one of the most bankable performers in the industry.”

The actor shared that his hopes for the coming year include continuing his work, spending more time with his family and spreading positivity. “More of the same. I’m very happy with what

(ANI)

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G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

‘GHAR KAB AAOGE’ IS A VERY EMOTIONAL SONG FOR US: VARUN DHAWAN Actor Varun Dhawan spoke about the emotional connection of the song ‘Ghar Kab Aaoge’ from ‘Border 2’, saying it resonates with the entire country and carries a strong message for the youth about the courage and sacrifices of the Indian Armed Forces. Dhawan said the song carries deep emotions not just for the film’s team but for the entire country. He said launching the track at Longewala, where ‘Border’ was shot, made the moment even more special. “It is a very emotional song for us, for the whole country. So it felt very good to launch it here in Jaisalmer and in Longewala, where Border was shot,” Dhawan said, urging audiences to watch Border 2 when it releases on January 23. Reflecting on his longstanding desire to portray a man in uniform, Dhawan credited Sunny Deol’s iconic role in Border for inspiring his admiration for the armed forces. “As Sunny sir has said that he watched

because of Sunny, sir,” he said. Varun shared that films like ‘Border’ shaped the patriotic spirit of an entire generation and instilled pride in the country’s military strength. The actor said he never imagined he would one day be part of ‘Border 2’ or associated with the song ‘Ghar Kab Aaoge’. “I had never, even in my wildest dreams, imagined that I would be a part of this song, Ghar Kab Aaoge or that I would be a part of Border 2 as a leading man.”

Haqeeqat as a kid and wanted to do a film about the armed forces, similarly, as a child, I watched Border and had the wish in my heart to play a man in uniform - someone from the armed forces. It’s all

Referring to the current national sentiment, Dhawan said films like Border 2 are important for young people to understand the bravery and sacrifices of the armed forces. Directed by Anurag Singh, ‘Border 2’ brings together a powerful ensemble led by Sunny Deol, Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh, Ahan Shetty, Mona Singh, Medha Rana, Sonam Bajwa, and Anya Singh.

SELECTIVE ABOUT WORKING IN HINDI CINEMA:

ZARINA WAHAB

Actress Zarina Wahab, who is awaiting the release of her upcoming film ‘The Raja Saab’, has shared why she has become very selective about working in Hindi cinema. The actress attended a special event for the film in Mumbai and opened up about moving down south for work.

Zarina Wahab has appeared in many films such as ‘Agar’, and ‘Arth’, ‘Dil Dhadakane Do’ and later transitioned into character roles across multiple languages. Zarina Wahab is married to actor Aditya Pancholi and is the mother of actors Sooraj Pancholi and Sana Pancholi.

She said, “I have been working in the industry for more than 40 years now. I am from Andhra, so I can speak good Telugu, much better than anybody else. Everybody kept asking me why I wasn’t working in Telugu films. I’ve worked in a few, but this film is bringing me more fame”.

Talking about ‘The Raja Saab’, the film also stars Sanjay Dutt, Boman Irani, Nidhhi Agerwal, Malavika Mohanan, Riddhi Kumar and Zarina Wahab.

She further mentioned, “People in Bombay ask me, why are you doing Telugu films? Hindi films main family mar gayi hai. There’s no family. Sirf South mai family abhi bhi zinda hai (The concept of family has died in Hindi; it’s only alive in the South). They produce such family-oriented films that people love to watch. I am currently working on 2-3 more Telugu movies”.

In the film, a man searching for his missing grandfather finds himself in a mansion inhabited by a sinister presence. (IANS)

However, she also credited Bollywood for her long career as she said, “I am very thankful to the Telugu industry now, and I was very, very thankful to the Hindi industry also”.

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(ANI)

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

CELEBRITIES WHO EMBRACED PARENTHOOD IN 2025

The journey to parenthood is one of life’s most profound transformations, and in 2025, several celebrities from the film, television and sports worlds experienced this joy firsthand. From heartfelt announcements to intimate family moments, the year saw many well loved personalities welcome new chapters filled with lullabies, late nights and boundless love. Among the most talked about celebrity parents were Sidharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani, who welcomed a baby girl in July. Sharing the news through a joint Instagram post, the couple wrote that their hearts were full and their world forever changed. While they have chosen to keep their daughter Saraayah away from the public eye, Kiara reflected on motherhood as a year of growth, learning and the sweetest blessings. November brought double celebrations for Vicky Kaushal and Katrina Kaif, who announced the arrival of their baby boy on November 7. The couple, married since 2021, shared a warm note expressing love and gratitude as they embraced parenthood. Katrina has often spoken about how their relationship unfolded organically, making this new chapter all the more special for fans. Actor Parineeti Chopra and politician Raghav Chadha also became parents to a baby boy in October. Announcing the birth with an emotional message, the couple shared how their lives had changed forever with the arrival of their son, Neer. Married in 2023 in Udaipur, the two have largely kept their personal life private. November also saw Rajkummar Rao and Patralekhaa welcome a baby girl, coinciding with their fourth wedding anniversary. Calling their daughter God’s greatest blessing, the couple marked the moment with gratitude and joy.

Comedian Bharti Singh and writer producer Harssh Limbachiyaa expanded their family with the arrival of their second son. Sharing the news with humour, Harssh joked about becoming a household of sons, while fans celebrated another milestone for the couple, who welcomed their first child in 2022. Actor filmmaker Arbaaz Khan and makeup artist Sshura Khan welcomed a baby girl in October. Sharing a simple and heartfelt announcement, they introduced their daughter Sipaara to the world, marking a new beginning for the couple. In the South Indian film industry, actors Varun Tej Konidela and Lavanya

Tripathi became parents to a baby boy in September. The couple shared an intimate photograph capturing the tenderness of the moment, after announcing their pregnancy earlier in the year. Television star Gauahar Khan embraced motherhood for the second time, welcoming a baby boy with husband Zaid Darbar. Their announcement reflected warmth and joy as their elder son Zehaan prepared to welcome his younger sibling. Actor Nakuul Mehta and singer Jankee Parekh welcomed their second child, a baby girl, on Independence Day. Sharing a touching image of their son Sufi holding his newborn sister Rumi, the couple celebrated a deeply personal family moment. Actor Viineet Kumar Singh and

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wife Ruchira welcomed a baby boy in September, sharing a playful yet emotional message celebrating their growing family. Actors Ishita Dutta and Vatsal Sheth also welcomed their second child, a baby girl, in June, completing their family of four. Rounding off the year, cricketer KL Rahul and actor Athiya Shetty welcomed their daughter Evaarah in March, with proud grandparents Suniel Shetty and family often sharing moments of joy. Together, these stories made 2025 a year rich with new beginnings, reminding fans that beyond the spotlight, love and family remain life’s greatest roles. (GDI)

FOOD

bon appétit

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

Did you know:

Reduce PMS symptoms by eating a banana, which regulates blood sugar and produces stress-relieving relaxation

FOODS TO HELP INDUCE LABOR NATURALLY

37 or 38 weeks pregnant, the finishing line seems so close yet so far. As one inches closer to their due date, often patience runs out and you may be ready to try everything possible to help induce labour naturally.

most women choose to speed things up naturally with food choices. Some look at these food groups as old wives’ tales since there is limited evidence to prove these are hundred per cent successful in aiding labour. Red Raspberry Leaf Red raspberry leaf is known to help strengthen the uterus muscles and tone the pelvic floor- both of which can help prepare for the process of birth. Studies have revealed that red raspberry leaves can help shorten labour and decrease the likelihood of a C-section or chances of an assisted birth using forceps/vacuum.

women often in the last weeks of pregnancy in a bid to aid cervical ripening.

Date Fruit It is believed that dates can help with the process of cervical ripening while also improving the spontaneity of labour & reducing the chances of postpartum haemorrhage. Studies have revealed that those who consume dates in their third trimester have a shorter first stage of labour and a quicker rate of cervical dilation. It must also be kept in mind that although dates are high in fibre, they do contain high levels of sugar and are therefore to be avoided in cases of gestational diabetes or for those who have a yeast infection in pregnancy (yeast feeds of sugar). By Dr. Vanshika Gupta Adukia

These leaves are commonly consumed in the form of tea by brewing the leaves in boiling water and then consuming the same. Since raspberry leaves can increase the frequency of Braxton hick’s contractions, it is recommended to consume these past 34 weeks Unripe Papaya The orange and ripe papaya although thought to be prohibited in pregnancy can actually be consumed occasionally in moderation and is no longer considered harmful for pregnant women. However, it is the green unripe and raw papaya that contains latex, which is believed to have properties similar to that of the hormone oxytocin (released during labour for uterine contractions) For this reason, unripe papaya is often a food choice amongst pregnant women who are naturally trying to induce labour during their last couple of days of gestation. Pineapple Pineapple is yet another fruit that is generally avoided by most pregnant women during pregnancy. Unfortunately, not many seem to know why this norm is popular. Pineapple contains an enzyme known as bromelain which is believed to cause cervical ripening. Cervical ripening is the first step towards cervical dilation which could eventually lead to labour. It is believed that the highest concentration of bromelain is present in the core of the pineapple. Pineapple is therefore consumed by pregnant

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G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

“THERE’S A WHOLE LOT OF NEWFOUND INTEREST IN INDIAN INGREDIENTS AND FLAVOURS”: CELEBRITY CHEF

KUNAL KAPUR Indian cuisine is seeing a steady change on the global stage, moving beyond old stereotypes and gaining recognition for its diversity and regional richness. It is now being explored and appreciated in many parts of the world for its wide range of flavours and traditions.

Celebrity chef Kunal Kapur believes this shift is being driven by curiosity and experimentation. In a conversation with ANI, he said, “Globally, people are experimenting with Indian ingredients and Indian food, which is getting a lot of popularity. Very unique and modern versions or tasting menus or small plates of Indian food, whether it’s Europe, especially in the UK or the US or even in Belize, there’s a whole lot of newfound interest in Indian ingredients and flavours, and it’s doing very well. And we’re now getting Michelin mentions to getting Michelin stars to Indian restaurants that are doing things a little differently.” Kapur said there is a visible shift towards regional ingredients, local produce and lesser-known culinary traditions. Digital platforms have further accelerated this transition, enabling chefs, home cooks, and food enthusiasts to share recipes, techniques, and regional knowledge instantly. “So because accessibility has become so easy, people can access information anytime, anyplace, whatever they want. And because people are also sharing ‘this is my home food, this is my regional food, this is my kitchen food’ that diversity, and the overwhelming response of people sharing and pouring their knowledge on social media has made it easy and accessible for many to use that information. For example, I get a lot of DMs saying, ‘Thank you so very much. I tried one of your recipes from YouTube or an Instagram reel I saw, and it turned out very well. Now this is part of the menu at one of my small cafes in a small town.’” Kunal Kapur said the long-held perception that “Indian food is oily, greasy and overly spicy is gradually changing, as people realise that this is not the reality of the cuisine. He noted that within India, a strong movement is underway, driven by greater awareness, social media and growing interest in local ingredients, regional produce and indigenous cuisines.”

According to him, “this shift is helping people move away from stereotypes such as associating Mumbai only with Pav bhaji, when in fact the city is home to a rich mix of Sindhi, Gujarati and Maharashtrian food traditions, reflecting its multicultural nature.” Kapur added, “Right now, at the global stage, I see South Indian as a cuisine. I see no onion, no garlic, and no Satvik or Jain cuisines gaining popularity or attracting people. The ethos and philosophy behind vegetarian Indian cuisine are gaining significant popularity. So these are the popular themes that people have picked up.” “It’s no longer about serving large quantities of food, but about understanding it well and presenting it with care, where even a smaller portion carries a lot of emotion, enthusiasm and love,” he said. Kunal said Indian cuisine is still misunderstood but added that it is more accurate to say it is not yet fully understood. He pointed out that Indian cuisine is far more diverse. While South Indian food is rapidly gaining popularity worldwide, many regional Indian cuisines remain unfamiliar to international audiences. “I think it is to a certain degree misunderstood, but it’s not very well understood, is the right word. Because what has happened is that Indian food internationally, there are these few dishes which have become the face of Indian food. Whether you call it butter chicken, naan, garlic naan, biryani, chicken tikka and paneer tikka, they have become the quintessential Punjabi or the commercial Indian food of North Indian restaurants,

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kind of becoming the expectation of the client,” Kapur said. “Indian food is very vast. South Indian food is gaining significant popularity worldwide. But there is still a lot of regional Indian food that people don’t understand because they are not exposed to that food yet,” he said. “This gap is gradually being addressed, pointing out that “a lot of popular restaurants are doing a fantastic job of bringing out regional sensibilities and serving them to the global clientele.” Kunal, who is among the judging panel of the upcoming reality TV show MasterChef India, along with Vikas Khanna and Ranveer Brar, talked about the show, saying, “This season is very different because this season for the first time we are having contestants in jodis. The contestants who come in pairs will compete for the title of MasterChef. And these jodis are very interesting because they are either your blood relatives or jis ghar mein aapki shaadi huyi hai. For example, brother and sister, two brothers, two sisters, father and daughter, son and mother, sister-in-law and daughter-in-law, mother-in-law and daughter-in-law. So, these are the different kinds of jodis that we have,” he said. According to Kapur, the format brings an added emotional layer to the competition. “You will be able to taste the flavour of those relationships along with the food,” he noted. MasterChef India to start from January 5 on Sony Entertainment Television and Sony LIV. By Ila Sankrityayan

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

MILLENNIALS LOVE THEIR G&T

Gin and Tonic is one such cocktail that has had the privilege to stand out among others, such as whisky and soda, rum and cola, and vodka and sprite. It is the one spirit that has earned the slang ‘G&T’. For those of us who are unfamiliar it is gin with ice, tonic water, and a squeeze of lime on top.

clarity with a 5-7 per cent alcoholic strength.

is devoid of gas and contaminants, melts slowly, and does not react with the fizz in tonic. As a result, it stays bubbly for a long time.

Although it appears to be a simple drink, it is quite easy to go wrong. The following are crucial measures to remember while making a perfect G&T: 4 Tonic Water -- Chilled tonic water dissolves 4 Gin -- Choosing a good quality gin is CO2 and keeps it effervescent for a long an excellent. Tanqueray London Dry is time. To avoid disturbing the fizz, it should Gin and tonic is an iconic drink that was a magnificent choice for a well-balanced be poured carefully from the glass’s wall. created in India, way back in early 19th century cocktail. Tanqueray 10 is ideal for those Maintain a 1:3 or 1:4 ratio (1 part gin to 3 or 4 when India was ruled by the Britishers, they seeking a citrus-forward spirit. And for parts of Tonic). If the ratio is not followed, the mixed gin with quinine, water, and sugar to those who enjoy botanical flavors, Gordon’s drink will likely taste spirit-forward or diluted, prevent malaria. This turned out to not only London dry gin is an excellent choice. Always and both are going to ruin the experience. be a medicinal drink but an extremely good measure your spirit to ensure that you know combination yielding to a flavour-some cocktail. how much you’re drinking and how much 4 Lime -- It is the most popular garnish. It Tonic water was born as a soda drink with tonic to add. should be squeezed over the drink to provide quinine, and the result the classic Gin & Tonic. citrus flavor and freshness. Lime should be 4 Glass -- It’s critical to have a glass that’s juicy, fresh and should not have been sliced British palates grew accustomed to the clean, unchipped, and cold. However, you the day before. combination of bitter, sweet, and a tinge of citrus. may drink your gin and tonic in a copa or red Gin and tonic took its position in the global wine glass if you can locate one. The copa, or Some of the other most popular gin cocktails cocktail world when the British returned to the red wine glass, can hold ice and has a stem would be Negroni, Gibson, Gimlet, Martini, Tom UK. Today, across UK there are multiple gin bars to keep the drink cold for longer. While taking Collins, Singapore Sling & Bees’ Knees. Gin with a lengthy list of options to explore. a drink, the design allows the scent to be based cocktails hold great standard and class focused on the nose. in a bar. The Martini right from its inception had When people travel, they often try new cuisine been a signature cocktail for celebrities. Negroni and drinks from various cultures. In the United 4 Ice -- Preferred choice should be a quality had been extremely popular with elite getKingdom, G&T has become the drink of choice, ice with a shape and size that delays the togethers. and visitors to the nation find it everywhere. As dilution process (often round or square), and a result, its popularity among young millennials that is dry enough not to melt quickly. This Drink responsibly! By Afzal Kaba has grown because of its delicious, blended may be fixed with a block of clear ice, which

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RECIPE

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

Turkey Kebabs

Christmas is incomplete without Turkey! In preparation for Christmas, there’s no doubt that roast Turkey is on the menu. What about trying something different this year? These spicy turkey kebabs are quick to prepare and taste great, so you can spend more time with your loved ones instead of in the kitchen. Try them... they won’t disappoint! This is a quick and easy recipe of turkey kebabs, made with minced turkey, Indian spices and served with mint and cranberry sauce

Ingredients: • 500g turkey mince • 1 egg • 2-3 tbsp breadcrumbs • 1 tbsp ginger, finely chopped • 1-2 green chillies, finely chopped • 1 med red onion, finely chopped • 2 tbsp coriander, finely chopped • 2 tbsp mint leaves finely chopped • ¼ tsp cardamom powder • ½ tsp black pepper, coarse • 1 tsp red chilli flakes • Salt to taste • For frying: Olive oil

Serves 2-4

Method: 1. In a large bowl, mix all the ingredients with the turkey mince. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours until ready to cook. 2. Take 2–3 tbsp of the mixture and roll to form smooth patties or kebabs. 3. Heat olive oil in a pan and fry until cooked through and golden brown. 4. Serve hot

Garnish: With fresh Garden salad and trio of sauce – cranberry sauce, mint sauce and tomato sauce.

Tip: Gently stir the rice because basmati after soaking becomes very fragile

Variation: Have as a snack, in a wrap or in a burger.

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recipe

BY MANJIT SETHI

from the private collection

ASTROLOGY

G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

By D. Narayan (Tantracharya) Mesha (Aries)

Vrishabh (Taurus)

Mithuna (Gemini)

M: 0425 660 220

Karkat (Cancer)

As per your Horoscope for 2026, this year will be another period of building, Aries. Your most solid efforts, when diligently applied, will bring only visible results. Aries people will enjoy their beautiful life for the entire year.

Career-wise, 2026 awakens a hunger for deeper fulfilment, and February’s solar eclipse offers the first glimpse. April sees Uranus charging into your cash zone, bringing plot twists and golden opportunities to reinvent your financial game.

This is your year of family connection and finding your voice. You enter January feeling the squeeze of outdated roles and obligations that block potential. April brings sweet relief when freedom-loving Uranus arrives in your sign, helping you to reclaim your independence and live on your own terms.

This is your year of learning and sexual exploration. Mercury broadens your horizons and wanderlust strikes, but you’re hungry for more than just tourist snapshots; you’re feeding your mind through courses and books.

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

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

Simha (Leo)

Kanya (Virgo)

Tula (Libra)

Vrishchik (Scorpio)

This is your year of golden opportunities and rising to meet your potential. June brings one of the decade’s biggest shifts when Jupiter enters your sign for the first time in 12 years. Opportunities multiply, you magnetise luck and doors swing open.

This is your year of reinvention and visibility. The lunar eclipse in your sign triggers a total image overhaul. You’re redefining your personal style or rebranding your professional presence. But this runs deeper than just your aesthetic. Your authentic self is radiating from your core.

This is your year of personal growth and celebration. The early months hum along like you’re on cruise control. Then April’s full moon charges in with champagne celebrations for a milestone or networking event where you own the room. You may also create something beautiful, such as a piece of art or perhaps the deeper work of shaping yourself.

This is your year of spiritual exploration and emotional depth. Jupiter spends the first half of 2026 pulling you away from superficial people and mindless scrolling. You’re starving for substance. By October, Mercury leads you towards an exciting new passion. Magic and mystical practices may become your thing.

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

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

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

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

Dhanu (Sagittarius)

Makara (Capricorn)

Kumbha (Aquarius)

Meen (Pisces)

This is your year of body wisdom and second chances. February’s eclipse floods your brain with brilliant ideas. Pluto’s retrograde exposes a secret, but there’s freedom in naming what’s unsaid. May’s blue moon resurrects old body-image battles, but this time you’re making peace with your reflection.

Offering new income possibilities and fresh ideas for business growth. Married couples should focus on patience and listening to resolve lingering tensions. Singles may cross paths with someone familiar, highlighting emotional potential. Educational pursuits improve through focus and review.

The year begins with mental clarity in finances, supported by the Sun and Mercury. Budget planning and spotting hidden income are favored. In love, Venus and the South Node encourage emotional honesty—singles may meet someone special, and couples deepen their bond.

Surprise income opportunities arise early, but Saturn advises cautious spending. Mid-month is ideal for reviewing expenses. Mercury helps resolve debts. Emotionally, Venus and the Moon encourage meaningful connections, while Mars gives courage to have healing talks.

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 L AUGH

HAVE A LAUGH Such Is Life…

1. When one door closes and another door opens, you are probably in prison.

straight ahead and say, "Did you bring the money?"

2. To me, "drink responsibly" means don't spill it.

11. When you ask me what I am doing today, and I say "nothing," it does not mean I am free. It means I am doing nothing.

3. Age 60 might be the new 40, but 9:00 pm is the new midnight.

12. I finally got eight hours of sleep. It took me three days, but whatever.

4. It's the start of a brandnew day, and I'm off like a herd of turtles.

13. I run like the winded.

5. The older I get, the earlier it gets late. 6. When I say, "The other day," I could be referring to any time between yesterday and 15 years ago. 7. I remember being able to get up without making sound effects. 8. I had my patience tested. I'm negative. 9. Remember, if you lose a sock in the dryer, it comes back as a Tupperware lid that doesn't fit any of your containers. 10. If you're sitting in public and a stranger takes the seat next to you, just stare

14. I hate when a couple argues in public, and I missed the beginning and don't know whose side I'm on. 15. When someone asks what I did over the weekend, I squint and ask, "Why, what did you hear?" 16. When you do squats, are your knees supposed to sound like a goat chewing on an aluminium can stuffed with celery? 17. I don't mean to interrupt people. I just randomly remember things and get really excited. 18. When I ask for directions, please don't use words like "east."

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G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

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G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

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G’DAY INDIA | JAN 2026

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