Celebrating the 15th anniversary of Indian cinema in Melbourne IFFM 2024 delivered another vibrant lineup of films, cultural events, chats and talent. Read on for some of the highlights of the iconic festival of Melbourne…
G’DAY INDIA PTY LTD
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Contributors:
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
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MELBOURNE, Aug 27: The Allan Labor Government has passed landmark youth justice laws that will deliver tough consequences for repeat and serious offenders and allow for more early intervention to keep children out of the justice system.
The Youth Justice Bill 2024 and several amendments to the Bail Act will ensure that serious youth offenders face consequences for their actions.
These changes include strengthening the bail test by making it crystal clear that bail decision-makers must assess both the risk to community safety and the risk of further serious offending when deciding if bail is appropriate.
This will make it explicit that if they believe a young person poses an unacceptable risk of committing a Schedule 1 or 2 offence while on bail, that is a clear reason to refuse bail.
The Bail Act will also be amended to specifically call out alarming crimes such as aggravated burglary or robbery, dangerous driving, carjacking or home invasion as explicit examples of offences that present an unacceptable risk to community safety.
The ability of police to apply for bail revocation for repeat offenders will be strengthened and clarified – with any offending or likely offending, or any serious breaches of bail conditions, grounds to seek revocation.
And we’ll create a new separate offence for committing a serious crime – including aggravated burglary, carjacking, murder and rape – while on bail.
The Bill raises the age of criminal responsibility for children up to 12 years old, making Victoria the first state in the country to do so.
It also provides appropriate measures to keep children out of the youth justice system and give them better outcomes such as the codification of doli incapax.
The Bill also includes a trial of electronic monitoring and more intensive bail
supervision, stronger powers to transfer young people aged over 18 to adult prison where they are a serious risk to others and more tailored sentencing options for courts to address the behaviour that led to the offending.
The Bill will allow for more young people on bail or on remand to participate in treatment and rehabilitation without prejudicing their case – helping them get back on a better path, sooner.
It will also introduce more options for restorative justice – bringing offenders face to face with victims to hear directly about the harm they’ve caused, which is proven to help victims heal, while giving offenders real insight into the behaviour.
A new Youth Justice Victims Register will also be created, enabling victims to receive relevant updates and to provide information to the Youth Parole Board to help inform parole decisions.
Loopholes will be closed to crack down on those who seek to exploit children to do their dirty work, including lowering the age of prosecution for recruiting children into criminal activity from 21 to 18 years old.
The Bill also creates more pathways to re-engage young people in school, in jobs and in other support programs – helping to keep them out of trouble and keep Victorians safe.
In addition to legislated changes, we’ll fast-track the delivery of an additional Magistrate to be in place this year, supporting the Children’s Court’s capacity to hear these cases quickly.
We’ll match the effort in the Children’s Court by expanding Victoria Police’s dedicated team of prosecutors – boosting their capability to respond to and prosecute this cohort quickly.
A new, ongoing Council on Bail, Rehabilitation and Accountability (COBRA) will be established, made up of experts including police, Youth Justice, the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing, Department of Health, schools and others as needed – to explore what is driving the actions of this group of reoffenders and how to stop them.
COBRA will report directly to Ministers, informing government of any trends, concerns or ideas so we can quickly act.
And we’ll take stock of our youth crime prevention programs to see what’s working and what’s not – enabling us to target investment to programs with the greatest likelihood of success.
These changes respond to direct feedback from multiple meetings with police, the judiciary and youth justice workers around our response to youth offending.
(MEDIA RELEASE)
MELBOURNE, Sep 4: Victoria has recorded the largest increase in exports across Australia – growing exports by more than $2 billion over the past 12 months.
Data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) yesterday shows that Victoria’s exports increased by 3.6 per cent in the June quarter – taking exports to a record
$17.6 billion.
Exports of goods and services have increased by almost a third since 2015 with exports jumping a further 13.2 per cent over the past year – the strongest growth among the states.
Growing export markets builds the economy and creates jobs and an additional
26,300 Victorians were employed in July 2024 – raising total employment to a record 3.7 million.
More than 850,000 new jobs have been created since 2014.
Victoria’s business investment also grew by more than 9 per cent in the year to March 2024 – the second largest increase of the states and more than 2 per cent above the national growth.
The strong trade data reaffirms the importance of international exports to the state. Victoria is the Education State and international education is our largest export.
Victoria holds 30 per cent of the national market share of international student enrolments. As our largest export, international students generated $14.8 billion in export revenue in 2023, supporting around 63,000 local jobs.
The Labor Government’s priority is to maintain the state’s global reputation as an open and welcoming destination, while supporting international students to join the state’s pool of highly skilled talent.
It’s why the Commonwealth Government must reconsider its cap on international students, which risks damaging Australia’s international education standing and economy.
MELBOURNE, Aug 31: The Allan Labor Government is continuing to lead the nation on mental health reform with a new centre that brings together industry, unions and experts to support mentally healthy workplaces.
WorkSafe Victoria will become the first establishment partner of the National Centre for Workplace Mental Health and Wellbeing, playing a key role in its development and contributing to several flagship projects in its first year. The centre will bring together industry, unions, insurers, research academics, and service providers to develop real-world solutions that support mentally healthy workplaces and prevent work-related mental injury.
the development of the National Centre for Workplace Mental Health and Wellbeing.
In addition to WorkSafe, another 40 organisations have given an in-principle commitment of more than $50 million in support of the National Centre for Workplace Mental Health and Wellbeing.
The Labor Government’s $4.5 million contribution will support the establishment of the centre and help fund its first three years.
This investment in the centre is in addition to WorkSafe’s $6.6 million Work Well Respect Program, which provides funding to create industry-wide change to prevent mental injuries, including work-related gendered violence and sexual harassment.
Professor Shantha Rajaratnam of Monash University will lead a consortium to coordinate
The Labor Government has embarked on the biggest mental health system reform in Australia’s history – with work underway on more than 90 per cent of recommendations from the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System and an investment of more than $6 billion delivering better mental healthcare right across the state.
(MEDIA RELEASE)
MELBOURNE, Aug 23: Regional Victoria will have even more amazing tourist attractions for people to visit with exciting local projects getting off the ground thanks to the Allan Labor Government.
The Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos visited the Art Gallery of Ballarat to announce 29 projects across regional Victoria that will receive funding through the Enabling Tourism Fund 2024.
The grants of up to $500,000 will support regional tourism projects to reach investment-ready status by funding feasibility studies and designing future infrastructure.
Australia’s oldest regional gallery, the Art Gallery of Ballarat, will use the funds to develop a masterplan that will help it put on blockbuster exhibitions that will bring more visitors to the area.
Other projects to receive funding include Bendigo’s Great Stupa, which will use the money to create a detailed masterplan for a new visitor centre with a cafe and museum, as well as a wellness hotel and spa.
Masterchef’s Simon Toohey, through his Sustainable Earth Network, will use the funding to investigate a permanent market in the Geelong and Bellarine area
that will promote local food producers, growers and manufacturers.
Visitors to Phillip Island will have even more wildlife adventures at their fingertips with funding going to Reptile Encounters to develop plans for a new state-of-theart zoo on the island, which is already renowned for its nature and wildlife experiences.
The Enabling Tourism Fund is part of a $170 million investment to create more local jobs, support our important tourism businesses and attract more people to the incredible experiences on offer across regional Victoria.
The Fund is helping strengthen and
grow Victoria’s tourism industry and is a key part of the Labor Government’s Experience Victoria 2033 strategic plan. The plan outlines five priority areas that leverage Victoria’s competitive advantages – including First Peoples’-led experiences, Wellness, Arts and Culture, Food and Drink, and Nature. All projects awarded funding under the Enabling Tourism Fund demonstrate alignment with these priorities.
To see a complete list of the Enabling Tourism Fund projects, tourism.vic.gov. au/grants-and-support/enabling-tourismfund(opens in a new window)
MELBOURNE, Aug 28: The Commonwealth Government’s plan to cap international students will hurt the state’s economy and reputation.
Minister for Economic Growth Tim Pallas called on the Commonwealth to reconsider its planned reforms which could deliver unintended consequences to the economy and jobs.
Victoria is the education state. Victoria holds 30 per cent of the national market share of international student enrolments. As our largest export, international students generated $14.8 billion in export revenue in 2023, supporting around 63,000 local jobs.
The Allan Labor Government’s priority is to maintain the state’s global reputation as an open and welcoming destination, while supporting international students to join the state’s pool of highly skilled talent.
The Labor Government has long supported international education through our lead agency, Study Melbourne. International students and graduates also contribute to the state’s economy through entrepreneurship and start-up ventures, as well as critical research areas.
This year, Melbourne retained the title of Australia’s best student city by global higher education ranking specialist Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) and was also named Australia’s most liveable city in the Economist Intelligence Unit Global Liveability Index, moving up to third in the world rankings.
This is all at risk – independent analysis prepared by SPP Consulting found that by 2027, the caps could cost
Victoria 12,000 jobs and $5.9 billion. The proposed caps put at risk the state’s ability to tackle local skills shortages and risk damaging Australia’s international education standing.
The state and its universities have a strong reputation for quality education in a safe and welcoming community and this will be put at risk by the current proposal by the Commonwealth Government to cap international students.
Victoria’s diversity is one of our greatest strengths. International students make a significant contribution to our diverse multicultural communities. The uncertainty created by these proposals risks jeopardising Victoria and Australia’s position as one of the best places to study globally.
Victoria’s international education sector is also yet to fully recover from the impacts of the COVID pandemic, and the proposed changes may have long-term impacts on the sustainability of the sector.
The Victorian Government’s submission is available at studymelbourne.vic.gov.au.
DANDENONG, Aug 27: Dandenong’s iconic Little India precinct is facing eviction, prompting a call to action from traders and community leaders to save Victoria’s first and only Indian cultural hub. After over 30 years of serving as a center for authentic Indian food, textiles,
fashion, and more, the small businesses of Little India are under threat of displacement due to a new development initiative.
The Victorian Government's recent $600 million “More Homes and Jobs in the Heart of Dandenong” announcement
has raised alarm among the precinct’s traders, who fear that the plan could lead to the closure of their businesses. Over 100 families connected to Little India traders now face losing both their homes and livelihoods amidst rising post-COVID challenges, interest rates, and the high cost of living.
The traders of Little India, backed by the broader Indian community in Melbourne, have expressed their deep disappointment with the government’s failure to acknowledge the cultural and economic importance of the precinct. They are calling for urgent dialogue with Premier Jacinta Allan and the Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Hon. Ingrid Stitt, to address their concerns. Without government intervention, many traders could face immediate eviction, financial losses, and forced relocation.
Community members rallied on Tuesday, August 27th, at the corner of Mason Street and Foster Street, Dandenong aimed to send a strong message to the Victorian Government to preserve this vital cultural precinct.
Roshena Campbell, a deputy mayoral candidate for the upcoming City of Melbourne elections, is committed to enhancing Melbourne’s vibrancy, inclusivity, and economic growth. Drawing on her extensive legal background as a barrister and personal experience as the daughter of small business owners, Campbell aims to make Melbourne a top destination for families and businesses alike. Her platform focuses on key areas including community safety, small business support, and family-friendly initiatives.
Melbourne’s Vibrancy and Inclusivity: A Priority
To ensure Melbourne remains vibrant and inclusive, Roshena Campbell emphasizes getting the basics right, such as cleanliness and safety. The city’s
cleaning team now operates 24/7, with individual responsibility assigned to each block. Offensive graffiti is removed within an hour of reporting. The city is also addressing homelessness by opening the Make Room facility, which will provide 50 beds for those sleeping rough.
Drawing from her background as a barrister, Roshena prioritizes listening to residents and traders to address and being their advocate on council. She cites the success of the Melbourne Money initiative, which provided $10 million in restaurant vouchers and boosted the local economy by nearly $100 million, as a key example of how government initiatives can positively impact businesses.
As an Australian of Indian origin, Roshena is committed to representing Melbourne’s diverse community. She actively supports multicultural events like Buddha’s Day, Diwali, and Lunar New Year, reinforcing her commitment to inclusivity and cultural celebration. She will shortly be announcing a package to support Melbourne’s multicultural communities, acknowledging the massive contribution they make to the city’s vibrancy and culture.
Roshena, whose parents were small business owners, understands the challenges faced by traders. She champions the Business Concierge service at Town Hall, which has cut red tape and halved the time required to start a business in Melbourne. She also highlights the importance of events in driving visitation and supporting local businesses, such as the Now or Never Festival, which generated a $14 million economic impact and created 1,500 jobs.
Roshena believes in open and respectful discussions within the council. She is committed to listening to the community, considering evidence, and being a strong advocate for residents and traders, even when opinions differ among councillors.
As a mother, Roshena is passionate about making Melbourne a top destination for families. She has supported familyfriendly events like the New Year’s Eve fireworks and the Moomba festival. Her efforts also include investing in family spaces like the narrm ngarrgu Library at Queen Victoria Market and the Lincoln Square playground. Additionally, she supports initiatives like affordable $2 pool entries to ease the cost of living for families.
(G’day India)
MELBOURNE, Aug 10: Hare Krishna Melbourne marked this year’s Krishna Janmastami with a grand celebration at the Timber Yard in Port Melbourne. The all-day event, which drew crowds of all ages and backgrounds, was a vibrant display of Krishna culture, spirituality, and community unity. The festivities offered a feast for the senses, with a wide array of vegetarian and vegan food stalls serving Indian street food and Western cuisines, ensuring that every attendee's palate was satisfied.
The celebration featured a rich cultural program, headlined by over 100 talented performers ranging from young children to adults. The centrepiece was an 8-meter LED screen that set the stage for an immersive multimedia experience, bringing to life ancient Indian stories through breathtaking digital displays. The highlight was a 40-minute dramatization of Hanuman's life, where the
audience was captivated by his heroic feats, from leaping across oceans to setting Lanka ablaze.
Other standout performances included a live mridanga show by teenage boys, whose synchronized beats and dynamic choreography energized the crowd. The dramatic portrayal of Draupadi from the Mahabharata, complete with the miraculous scene of the infinitely stretching sari, was another showstopper that transported viewers back to the epic battlefields of ancient India.
The event also showcased contemporary themes, such as the impact of social media and the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, blending traditional stories with modern-day relevance. These performances were not only a display of artistic talent but also a reflection of the spiritual education provided at Hare Krishna centres across Melbourne, where the young performers regularly study philosophy
and spirituality.
The Janmastami celebration extended beyond religious observance, fostering interfaith harmony. The presence of Mohamed Mohideen, Deputy President of the Islamic Council of Victoria, alongside political figures like former Victorian Premier Ted Baillieu, highlighted the event’s message of unity and inclusivity. Guests praised the dedication and cooperation of the volunteer artists and commended the event’s spirit of generosity, as it was free and open to all.
The Hare Krishna Melbourne community invites everyone to join upcoming Janmastami events on August 27th across three locations: the Hare Krishna Melbourne Temple in Albert Park, Westgate Indoor Sports in Altona North, and Akoonah Park in Berwick. The celebrations will include prayers and a free feast to honor the birth of Lord Krishna.
(G’day India)
On August 10th, Sarva Samaj Seva Samithi successfully hosted the Shri Hanuman Katha Sankirtan event, drawing a large and diverse audience. This event, led by the esteemed spiritual leader Shri Rasraj ji Maharaj, was not only a spiritual celebration but also a significant step forward in Sarva Samaj Seva Samithi's mission to uplift humanity.
The Shri Hanuman Katha Sankirtan event played a pivotal role in bringing together people from various backgrounds, fostering a sense of community and belonging. The event's focus on spirituality and cultural heritage provided attendees with an enriching experience, offering them spiritual guidance and inspiration. Shri Rasraj ji Maharaj’s deep knowledge and engaging storytelling captivated the audience, creating an atmosphere that resonated with the spiritual needs of those present.
One of the major achievements of the event was its success as a fundraiser. The funds generated will be directed towards the construction of a new temple, which will serve
as both a spiritual and community center. This aligns with Sarva Samaj Seva Samithi's broader vision of uplifting humanity by addressing the community's spiritual and social needs. The event also raised awareness of the organization's mission and the importance of supporting its initiatives, further expanding its reach within the community.
The success of the Shri Hanuman Katha Sankirtan event can be attributed to several key strategies. Under the strong leadership of Sarva Samaj Seva Samithi, the event was meticulously planned and effectively promoted through a well-targeted marketing campaign. Community engagement was also a critical factor, with volunteers and community members playing an essential role in the event's execution. The high-quality performance by Shri Rasraj ji Maharaj was a major attraction, drawing a significant audience and ensuring the event’s success.
Looking ahead, Sarva Samaj Seva Samithi plans to build on the success of this event by continuing its fundraising efforts for the temple
construction and exploring new initiatives that align with its mission. The organization is committed to expanding its impact through community development programs focused on education, healthcare, and social welfare. Additionally, Sarva Samaj Seva Samithi aims to promote interfaith dialogue to foster unity and understanding among different communities.
The Shri Hanuman Katha Sankirtan event was not just a celebration of spirituality but a demonstration of Sarva Samaj Seva Samithi's dedication to uplifting humanity through community building, spiritual guidance, and impactful social initiatives. The organization looks forward to continuing its mission with the support of the community.
(G’day India)
www.ssssamiti.org.au
Committee: President: Mr. Vijay Dhiman, Vice President: Mr. Gaurav Gulati, Secretary: Mr. Manoj Vishwakarma, Joint Secretary: Mr. Manpreet Singh, Treasurer: Mr. Sunil Mohan Bassi, Joint Treasurer: Mr. Suraj Singh, Member: Mr. Radhey Kothari, Member: Mr. Ketan Rajpal, Member: Mr. Ghanisht Nagpal.
MELBOURNE, Sep 5: Featuring Bollywood dancing, dhol drumming and DJ sets, the NGV’s hugely popular Indian Community Day returns on Sunday 13 October 2024 at NGV International from 11am to 5pm. Celebrating the creativity and diversity of Victoria’s Indian community, this annual free event features art, food, performance, dance, music and more for audiences of all ages.
Highlights for the 2024 Indian Community Day include a vibrant and high impact drumming performance. Beginning on the NGV forecourt, the group of Indian dholis will conduct an exhilarating and high-energy roving performance into the Great Hall.
Inside, visitors can enjoy performances and workshops showcasing Indian dance styles, including Kathak, one of the eight forms of Indian classical dance, as well as folk dances
from Gujrat and Rajasthan. There will also be an interactive Bollywood performance and workshop by Ignite Bollywood in the Great Hall.
The event will be hosted by Sharon Johal, celebrated Indian-Australian actor, writer and human rights advocate. Johal is best known for her work in Australia’s longest-running TV series Neighbours, the TV adaptation of Shantaram (2022) and starring opposite Zac Efron in Ricky Stanicky (2024), as well as competing as a contestant on the renovation TV series The Block.
Melbourne-based visual artist Bushra Hasan will teach children about the rickshaw, an iconic mode of transport in India, in the handson creative workshop Let’s Drive. Drawing inspiration from how owners decorate their reallife rickshaws, children can draw boldly coloured
and patterned rickshaw. Born in Lucknow, India, Hasan works across painting, large scale murals, mosaic floors and community garden installations.
Revealing the influence of traditional Indian garments on contemporary fashion design, SBS Radio host Preeti Jabal moderates a panel discussion with Melbourne designers, Abha Gupta and Kudrat Makkar, alongside Sunita Lewis, Project Officer, Asian Art at the NGV. The conversation will also explore the influence of family on their designs and invite audiences to share their favourite fashion moments from their own upbringings.
Transforming the Great Hall into a dance floor for all ages, DJ and music producer Pradip Sarkar, also known as Sikander, presents an exhilarating voyage across diverse musical horizons with an electrifying DJ set. Sakar is a founding member of the Sikander Band and hosts the popular radio show Tiger Beats Elephant Grooves on PBS FM.
Especially for Indian Community Day, chef Helly Raichura of Carlton North’s sought-after Indian diner, Enter via Laundry, will create a bespoke menu of Indian dishes and snacks served throughout the Great Hall and Gallery Kitchen. Raichura has appeared as a guest judge on Masterchef Australia, co-hosted the TV cooking series India Unplated alongside Adam D'Sylva and Sandeep Pandit, and appears regularly as a guest chef for The Cook Up with Adam Liaw.
Visitors can also tour the NGV Collection, including highlight works from the NGV Collection of Asian art, presented by Sunita Lewis, Project Officer, Asian Art.
Indian Community Day is on Sunday 13 October 2024 at NGV International, St Kilda Road. Entry is FREE. For further information, please visit the NGV website: NGV. MELBOURNE.
MELBOURNE, Aug 5: The Australia India Business Council (AIBC) Victoria Chapter hosted its Annual Oration and Gala Dinner, a key event spotlighting the deepening trade and investment opportunities between Australia and India. The evening featured distinguished speakers, including the Premier of Victoria, Hon. Jacinta Allan, who delivered the keynote address.
The event commenced with a ceremonial lamp lighting, followed by opening speeches from Reet Phulwani, AIBC Women in Business Chapter Head, and Rob Thomason, AIBC Victoria President. Notable speakers such as Mr. Gopal Baglay, High Commissioner of India to Australia; Nick Reece, Lord Mayor of Melbourne; Iain Martin, Vice Chancellor of Deakin University; Ravneet Pawha, Vice President - Global Alliances and CEO - South Asia Deakin University; and Tim Thomas, CEO of the Centre for Australia India Relations (CAIR), shared their insights on strengthening bilateral ties.
The evening also featured a Q&A session with Nick Hockley, CEO of Cricket Australia, hosted by Molina Asthana GAICD, National Chair for Sport, Art, and Culture.
Attendees had the unique opportunity to view two World Cup trophies won by Australia, which were on display for photographs. The cultural richness of the event was further enhanced by a classical dance performance and the national anthems of both countries, sung by a renowned opera singer.
Speakers emphasized the importance of the Australia-India relationship, particularly the
contributions of the growing Indian diaspora, business collaborations, and cricket—a shared passion between the two nations. Premier Jacinta Allan announced her upcoming visit to India in September, her first international trip since taking office, aimed at strengthening ties in key sectors such as trade, education, and innovation.
“This visit is about enhancing our collaboration with one of our most important trade and investment partners, from food and fibre to cutting-edge education technology,” Premier Allan stated.
The gala dinner was well-attended by government officials, politicians, media, sports industry representatives, universities, and businesses, highlighting the mutual commitment to fostering stronger bilateral relations between Victoria and India. The event underscored the significant role of the Australia-India partnership in driving economic growth and cultural exchange.
SYDNEY, Sep 4: Authorities have warned of a likely early start to Australia's bushfire season following the warmest August in recorded history.
The Australasian Fire and Emergency Services Authorities Council (AFAC) - the national council of fire and emergency service authorities in Australia and New Zealandreleased the official seasonal bushfire outlook for the spring of 2024.
It revealed that the state of Queensland and the Northern Territory (NT) in Australia's north as well as the southern states of Victoria and
South Australia (SA) are facing an increased risk of fires during the season, which began on September 1 and runs through the end of November.
The outlook, which was compiled by the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM), said there is an increased likelihood of unusually high spring maximum temperatures across most of Australia.
In northern Australia, it said that the increased fire risk is driven by dry grasslands caused by dry winds in the winter and unseasonal rainfall earlier in the year that has
led to increased fuel loads.
In the south, the outlook said rainfall was in the lowest 10 per cent on record for the first half of 2024, causing an increase in dead and dry plant material.
Releasing the report, AFAC Chief Executive Rob Webb urged communities across Australia to prepare for fires.
"Fire and emergency services are prepared for the fire season ahead and are here today to encourage communities to do the same," he said in a speech at the AFAC annual conference in Sydney.
"Now is the time to make a plan. Understand your local risk, know where you will get your information, and talk to your family about what you will do."
The BoM confirmed that August was Australia's warmest on record, with the national average temperature for the month 3.03 degrees Celsius above the 1961-1990 longterm August average.
In its spring long-range forecast released late in August, the BoM said there was an increased likelihood of warmer-than-average temperatures in every Australian state and territory through the season.
SINGAPORE, Sep 5: Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the progress made in bilateral cooperation in a multitude of forwardlooking areas as he wrapped up his two-day visit to Singapore.
"My visit to Singapore has been a very fruitful one. It will certainly add vigour to bilateral ties and benefit the people of our nations. I thank the government and people of Singapore for their warmth," PM Modi posted on X before leaving for India.
Prime Minister Modi was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the Parliament House on Thursday, held meetings with Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong besides engaging separately with Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong.
He also visited AEM, a leading Singaporean company in semiconductor and electronics sector, addressed the India-Singapore business roundtable meeting and interacted with interns from Odisha's World Skill Center who are visiting Singapore and interns from Singapore who have been to India as a part of the CIIEnterprise Singapore India Ready Talent Programme.
"Singapore and India share a deep and enduring friendship, built on strong economic and people-to-people ties. Had a productive meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Parliament House. We've set out a forward-looking agenda for the next phase of our bilateral relations. This includes closer cooperation in areas like sustainability, advanced manufacturing, digital technologies and connectivity. We're also upgrading the Singapore-India Strategic Partnership to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership," said Singapore PM Lawrence Wong.
During their meeting, Singapore President Tharman and Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed the longstanding friendship between both countries as they discussed India's potential as a leading centre of growth over the next decade, driven by both social and digital investments across the wide span of its population, as well as its new economic linkages.
"They also discussed the potential for India and ASEAN to complement each other's growth and build stronger supply chain linkages. They looked forward to celebrating 60 years of diplomatic relations between Singapore and India in 2025, which is a significant milestone," stated Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Together, PM Modi and his Singaporean counterpart witnessed the exchange of four government-to-government Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) in the areas of digital cooperation, education and skills development, health and medicine, and semiconductor ecosystem cooperation.
"The Prime Ministers discussed potential collaboration in new and innovative areas, including cross border electricity trade and green ammonia supply chains, a joint flagship programme for skills training, enhancing crossborder data flows via the Gujarat International
Finance and Tec-City (GIFT City), and cooperation in developing industrial parks in India," said the country's Foreign Ministry.
The statement added that Emeritus Senior Minister Goh and Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed the close friendship and historical ties between Singapore and India at their meeting.
"They discussed ways to build on this strong foundation to strengthen people-to-people ties and exchanges. They also discussed how India could power the next wave of Asian growth," it mentioned.
During his visit to the AEM, PM Modi interacted with Singapore's semiconductor ecosystem players.
He was briefed about AEM's role in the global semiconductor value chain, its operations and plans for India. Singapore Semiconductor Industry Association also gave a briefing on the development of the semiconductor ecosystem in Singapore and opportunities for collaboration with India. Representatives of several other Singaporean companies from this sector were also present.
"The Prime Minister invited the Singaporean semiconductor companies to participate in the SEMICON India exhibition to be held in Greater Noida on 11-13 September 2024. Given our efforts to develop the semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem in India and Singapore’s strengths in this sector, both sides have decided to expand bilateral cooperation," mentioned the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
Prime Minister Modi had arrived in Singapore from Brunei on Wednesday and met PM Lawrence Wong at the historic Sri Temasek bungalow - the official residence of the Singaporean Prime Minister.
(IANS)
When - A separate meeting with each party must take place before a marriage is solemnised, regardless of when the NOIM was received, unless celebrant has already met separately with each party to establish real consent.
If the NOIM has been transferred to a new celebrant, the new celebrant must also meet separately with each party. This is necessary because the celebrant who solemnises the marriage must comply personally with all legal requirements.
The timing and duration of a separate meeting with each party is at the discretion of the celebrant and the marrying couple, provided it takes place before the marriage is solemnised. Suggested opportunities may include a convenient time after receiving the NOIM; when signing the Declaration of No Legal Impediment to Marriage; or on the day of the wedding.
If you have any concerns about consent at any stage you should meet with the parties separately and at the earliest opportunity. Meeting in advance of the wedding day will assist
the celebrant to manage any concerns about real consent appropriately.
Real consent may change over time and celebrants should exercise sound judgement about whether or not to solemnise a marriage. Circumstances may arise on the day of the wedding that may impact on real consent. For example, if either of the parties appear intoxicated or otherwise unable to provide real consent at that time, or for any other reason including medical issues.
If you have further questions, you may contact me on 0425 853 086 or navee64@gmail.com.
BY GURPAL SINGH
Family violence is a massive issue in the Australian society with vulnerable groups including new migrant women seeking to assimilate in the community breaking the traditional taboos are significantly affected as a result of the primitive and religious restrictive conditions and principles. The personal safety survey reveals that one in three women has suffered violence from the very young age. Here we talk about the age as younger as 15 years. Women do suffer from physical, sexual and emotional violence at the hands of a male partner or ex-partner. The extent of the violence is very high in the migrant communities, aboriginal and Islander women, and women with a disability including educational disability.
There is a heightened risk that the perpetrators of the family violence will increase or escalate the abusive behaviour against the victim – survivors during the relationship and after the relationship. The women affected by Family violence essentially struggle to achieve a fair division of the property settlement under the Family law Act 1975 and may suffer long-term financial disadvantage. The family violence also acts as a barrier to women seeking access to justice, providing a disincentive to many women to pursue financial settlements after breakdown of the relationship, causing
further financial disadvantage for women. Experience of and exposure to, the family violence also poses’ significant risks to the children of the women suffering from the family violence. 44% of the young people aged 16-24 years have been found to be exposed to domestic violence. It does have profound and detrimental impact on the behavioural, social, emotional developmental and educational wellbeing of the children so exposed to the domestic violence. The impacts can include the financial insecurity, lack of physical confidence, housing instability. The family violence is the most common factor contributing to homelessness among women and their children.
It is proposed that the family courts will consider the economic effects of the family violence in property and spousal maintenance proceedings under the Family law proceedings so that a strong message is sent to the community that property settlement outcomes should recognise the effects of family violence on the individuals and on the community with emphasis on the wealth and welfare of the families wherever relevant. It is intended that the economic consequences of the family violence are required to be considered when resolving the property and financial aspects of the breakdown of relationship.
Another proposal contains a provision for the enhancement of courts’ ability to actively control and manage the conduct of property and other no-child related proceedings,
including to address family violence and ensure appropriate evidence before the court. There are proposed provisions for disclosure obligations relevant to the financial information in the Family law scope toe encourage early intervention and resolution of disputes, and amendments to strengthen the arbitration regime, supporting the separated couple who try to resolve their property matters through alternative dispute resolution process.
There is an attempt to safeguard against the harmful disclosure and adducing of evidence arising from communications made I the course of professional confidential relationships recognising that the perpetrators of family violence may seek to use the family law system as a vehicle to abuse a former partner, including by seeking the disclosure of an individual's private and sensitive records. This would advance and protect the sensitive information to have limited probative value and support the family to safely seek support from and engage with the health and related services.
Additionally, it is anticipated that case management regime in the family law proceedings will improve the case management in the proceedings, reduce costs and stress for parties, and promote safer outcomes for children and family by determining if an exemption to mandatory dispute resolution requirements applies before accepting a parenting orders application at the failing stage.
Melbourne Fringe Festival to Showcases Unique Fusion of Literature and Visual Art to Explore Immigrant Experiences
MELBOURNE, Aug 21: A presentation of artists exposition for The Melbourne Fringe Festival witnessed the launch of a pioneering art exhibition, Two Worlds Collide, at Victoria
illustrator Rohit Bhasi enriches the narrative with his visually striking cover art. Local talents, including Laura Bailey from the Victorian College of the Arts, bring the exhibition to
Trades Hall, Melbourne Fringe Lounge Hall. The world’s first "book-to-gallery" experience, the exhibition transforms Nandita Chakraborty’s memoir, Dirty Little Secrets, into a powerful exploration of migration and identity through visual art.
Chakraborty, a renowned neurodivergent screenwriter and author, uses her memoir— ranked among the top ten books of 2022 by Delhi Wire—as the foundation for this innovative exhibition. Two Worlds Collide delves deep into themes of love, identity, disability, and the immigrant experience, transcending the boundaries of traditional literature to engage audiences in a multisensory journey.
The exhibition features a rich blend of contributions from international and local artists. Akshay Gandhi, acclaimed for his socially conscious performances, adds a global dimension, while Bengaluru-based
life through innovative silhouette sculptures. Shipra Anand’s alpona (rangoli) designs create a cultural bridge, and First Nation artist Samantha Lord’s dot painting reflects a deep connection to land and heritage.
Supported by prominent organizations like the Consulate General
of India in Melbourne, Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre in Sydney, the City of Yarra, Bhumi Organics, and Merri-bek City Council, the exhibition celebrates cultural exchange and the immigrant journey. Distinguished attendees at the launch, such as Vivienne Nguyen, Multicultural Chairperson, and Fringe Festival Director Marliene Zaibak, underscored its significance within Melbourne's cultural landscape.
Two Worlds Collide will be featured at the SOL Gallery from October 3rd to 13th, as part of the Melbourne Fringe Festival, which runs from October 1st to 20th. The exclusive opening night on October 3rd is anticipated to be a highlight, aligning with this year’s Fringe theme, “Eat Your Art Out.”
This groundbreaking exhibition not only merges literature and visual art but also provides a deeply personal insight into the themes of migration and identity. As it unfolds at the SOL Gallery, Two Worlds Collide offers an unmissable, transformative experience, vividly depicting the migrant journey through art.
Healthy Smiles Group, led by Principal Dentist Dr. Ved Berani and General Manager Priyanka Sethi Berani, has become a benchmark in the dental industry for its patient-first philosophy, innovative practices, and commitment to sustainability. In a candid discussion, Dr. Berani and Priyanka share their strategies for maintaining high standards of care, the challenges of expanding a multiaward-winning practice, and their vision for the future as they celebrate 20 years of excellence.
Q: Dr. Berani, as a second-generation dentist, how has your personal philosophy shaped the patient-centric approach at Healthy Smiles, particularly in cosmetic and aesthetic dentistry?
A: At Healthy Smiles, we believe our existence revolves around our patients. From opening the doors in the morning to closing them at night, every action is aimed at making a positive impact on their lives. In dentistry,
patients often come with deep emotional concerns related to their smile and oral health. Our philosophy of “taking the fear out of dentistry” helps anxious and phobic patients begin their journey toward greater confidence, self-esteem, and self-respect. We are privileged to deliver life-changing transformations daily.
Q: Priyanka, how did you integrate the ‘Patients First’ philosophy into Healthy Smiles, and what challenges did you face in growing the practice to a team of 35?
A: As General Manager, I focus on the nonclinical aspects of patient care, ensuring a "7star" customer experience. A "wow" experience is about more than just treating teeth; it's about creating a unique and memorable patient journey. By offering warm blankets, wireless headphones, and genuine empathy, we create a reciprocal effect that fuels business growth. This patient-first philosophy has driven many word-of-mouth referrals and helped expand
our practice to over 40 staff and practitioners. Today, we offer comprehensive dental services, creating a one-stop solution for all oral healthcare needs without compromising care.
Q: Dr. Berani, winning the Bupa Health Services Award for Sustainability is a significant achievement. Can you share the key sustainability initiatives integrated into your practice and their impact on patient care?
A: At Healthy Smiles, our sustainability efforts include a 30-kilowatt solar system, reducing grid electricity usage for our large practice and day surgery center. We also encourage patients to combine appointments, minimizing visits and reducing carbon emissions. Our use of AI technology, such as remote monitoring for orthodontic care, allows patients to take images of their teeth using smartphones, reducing the need for frequent visits. Additionally, we use water-efficient practices and support tree plantation drives, planting 860 trees in the Yarra Valley corridor last year.
Q: Healthy Smiles has earned a reputation for its '7-star customer care.' What strategies or innovations have you implemented to ensure this level of care?
A: Consistently providing '7-star' service requires a coordinated team effort. From the moment patients arrive, they are greeted by a concierge, offered refreshments, and assured minimal wait times. Our dentists take time to listen and discuss all treatment options, ensuring patients are fully informed and comfortable. Additional comforts like headphones and blankets enhance their experience, while transparent financial consent helps maintain trust, especially given the cost of dental care.
Q: As Healthy Smiles celebrates 20 years, what future advancements do you envision to maintain excellence and continue taking the fear out of dentistry?
A: We plan to integrate advanced technology to provide the highest level of care, particularly for anxious patients. This includes investing in 3D X-rays, AI-assisted diagnostics, and sameday scanning and delivery technology, ensuring an exceptional and efficient patient experience.
As they look to the future, Dr. Berani and Priyanka remain focused on innovation and excellence. Their unwavering commitment to sustainability, patient care, and the integration of new technologies continues to position their practice as a leader in the dental industry, ensuring that every patient receives the highest level of care in a comfortable and welcoming environment.
(G’day India)
Vibrant Showcase of Diversity, Storytelling, and Cultural Exchange at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne
The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2024, held from August 15 to 25, marked a significant milestone with its 15th edition. The festival featured over 65 films, including six world premieres, and highlighted diverse narratives and groundbreaking talent. With a dynamic mix of screenings, panel discussions, artistic collaboration and cultural events, IFFM 2024 celebrated the evolving landscape of Indian cinema on a global platform, bridging the cultural gap between India and Australia.
Opening Night and Key Highlights
The festival opened on August 15 with the premiere of "My Melbourne," an anthology film directed by renowned filmmakers Onir, Rima Das, Imtiaz Ali, and Kabir Khan. The project explored themes such as race, gender, sexuality, and disability, reflecting IFFM's commitment to diverse narratives. The opening night set the tone for a festival focused on inclusivity, with the presence of Bollywood luminaries like Karan Johar, Kartik Aaryan, Nora Fatehi, Imtiaz Ali, and Kabir Khan.
During the opening, IFFM Director Mitu Bhowmik Lange, alongside Caroline Pitcher from VicScreen, highlighted the festival’s dedication to bridging cultures and promoting cinematic excellence. Bollywood star Rani Mukerji also launched a commemorative stamp honoring the late filmmaker Yash Chopra at the Australian Parliament House, adding a touch of nostalgia and respect for Indian cinema's legacy.
Emphasis on Female Filmmakers and Diversity
IFFM 2024 prominently featured films directed by women, with 20 of the selected films helmed by female filmmakers. These films challenged societal norms and brought powerful female voices to the forefront. The festival also celebrated
cultural diversity through a series of panel discussions, workshops, and appearances by leading figures in the Indian film industry, such as Shoojit Sircar, Adarsh Gourav, and Rima Das.
The festival culminated in a star-studded awards night where several honors were bestowed upon outstanding talent.
Kabir Khan won the Best Director award for his film "Chandu Champion,"
while Kartik Aaryan took home the Best Actor award for his role in the same film. Parvathy Thiruvothu was named Best Actress for her performance in "Ullozhukku." The Best Film award went to "12th Fail," directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, and "Amar Singh Chamkila" by Imtiaz Ali received the Breakout Film of the Year award.
Other notable winners included AR Rahman, who was honored with the Excellence in Cinema award, and Ram Charan, who was recognized as the Ambassador for Indian Art and Culture. Rasika Dugal was named the Diversity Champion, and Adarsh Gourav received the Disruptor of the Year award for his role in "Kho Gaye Hum Kahan."
A special highlight was the Remitly Dance Competition, judged by Malaika Arora, Nora Fatehi and Lakshay which celebrated the rich tradition of Indian dance. Fatehi also hosted a special screening of her latest film, "Madgaon Express." Vikrant Massey’s film "Sector 36" had its world premiere at the festival, marking a significant achievement for the actor and the film's creators.
The festival’s program also included a special session with Kartik Aaryan and Kabir Khan discussing "Chandu Champion" and sessions featuring filmmakers like Kiran Rao and Dominic Sangma, who were awarded for their contributions to cinema.
IFFM 2024 emphasized its role as a bridge between Indian and Australian cultures. Events like the hoisting of the Indian tricolor by Ram Charan at Federation Square, and the inclusion of local Australian and South Asian communities in the festival activities, underscored the shared heritage and mutual respect between the two countries.
creativity, and evolving nature of Indian films. It provided a platform for new voices and celebrated established talents, reinforcing its position as a key event on the international film festival circuit.
Mitu Bhowmik Lange, the festival's director, expressed her pride in how IFFM continues to grow, stating, "The festival has always been about building bridges between cultures, and it’s heartwarming to see the support we have received from both the Indian film fraternity and the Victorian Government."
IFFM 2024 successfully reaffirmed its status as the largest celebration of Indian cinema outside of India, offering a rich tapestry of films and cultural exchange. With a strong emphasis on diversity, inclusion, and artistic collaboration, the festival not only honored the best in
The festival concluded with the screening of "Girls Will Be Girls," a film produced by Ali Fazal and Richa Chadha, which explores teenage romance and familial dynamics. The film received significant acclaim for its portrayal of contemporary issues, making it a fitting end to a festival dedicated to storytelling that transcends boundaries.
As the largest celebration of Indian cinema outside of India, IFFM 2024 successfully showcased the diversity,
cinema but also strengthened the cultural bond between India and Australia.
With its blend of cinematic excellence and community engagement, leaving audiences and participants eagerly anticipating what the next edition will bring. As IFFM looks forward to its next edition, it continues to be a vital platform for celebrating the vibrant world of Indian storytelling.
Heartiest Congratulations Sandeep and your team on receiving a Special Mention in the IFFM 2024 Short Film Competition for your short film ECHO.
What inspired you to create ECHO, and how did you develop the vision for intertwining the lives of these characters in Melbourne?
ECHO was inspired by my passion for storytelling that highlights the often unseen connections between people. Living in Melbourne, I’ve always been captivated by how this city’s diverse cultures and vibrant energy create a backdrop for stories that are both deeply personal and universally relatable. I wanted to explore how different lives can resonate with one another—like echoes— through their struggles and triumphs. The film presents four unique stories, each reflecting real-life challenges that I believe everyone can connect with.
What message did you aim to convey through ECHO, particularly about inner strength and resilience?
The central message of ECHO is about the inner strength and resilience that lies within all of us. The characters face unexpected challenges that test them profoundly, but it's in these moments that their true strength shines through. I wanted to show that resilience is not just about overcoming obstacles but about finding the courage to keep moving forward,
even when the path isn’t clear. Ultimately, ECHO is a reminder that we all have the capacity to rise above our struggles and create our own echoes of strength in the world.
What challenges did you face while making ECHO, and how did you overcome them to ensure the film was impactful in just 15 minutes?
One of the biggest challenges was weaving four distinct stories together without losing the impact of any one of them. This required us to make every second count by developing strong characters and conveying their journeys in a concise yet powerful manner. We faced time constraints, which meant making tough decisions about what to include while staying true to the film’s message of inner strength and resilience. Budget limitations also pushed us to be creative with our resources. Connecting emotionally with the audience in
such a short time was crucial, so we focused on creating authentic, relatable moments that resonated universally.
How did you work with your cast to bring out the depth and authenticity of each character’s struggle and triumph in ECHO?
Establishing a strong collaborative relationship with the cast was key to capturing the authenticity of each character. We started with in-depth discussions about each character’s backstory, which helped the actors bring a genuine sense of history and emotion to their performances. Rehearsals involved improvisation and experimentation, allowing the actors to explore their characters’ struggles and triumphs freely. We paid close attention to the small details—body language, facial expressions, and pauses between lines— because these subtleties often convey more than words alone.
What do you hope audiences take away from ECHO, and how does the film reflect your broader perspective as a filmmaker?
I hope audiences connect deeply with the characters and their journeys. ECHO is about more than individual stories—it’s about the shared human experience of strength, resilience, and hope. I want viewers to see themselves in these characters and recognize that their own struggles and triumphs are part of a larger, shared journey. This film reflects my commitment to telling stories that explore the intersections of diverse lives and cultures, grounded in real emotions and experiences. I hope ECHO leaves audiences feeling empowered and inspired to embrace their own journeys with resilience and an open heart.
(G’day India)
In an exclusive interview with G'day India during the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2024, acclaimed director Kabir Khan delves into his journey as a filmmaker who bridges the gap between historical context and compelling narratives. Known for his ability to intertwine real-life events with human stories, Khan shares insights into his creative process, the challenges he has faced, and his vision for the future of cinema in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Kabir Khan, known for blending historical events with compelling narratives, draws inspiration from his background as a documentary filmmaker. “When I watched mainstream cinema, I often felt it lacked social, political, or historical context,” Khan shares. "I wanted to tell stories that included these elements, creating films that I enjoy watching." He admires filmmakers like Mani Ratnam, who skilfully blend larger-than-life contexts with personal stories, a style that has heavily influenced Khan’s own work.
Facing Challenges and Learning from
Reflecting on the challenges he faced during his career, Khan cites his debut film Kabul Express as a significant learning experience. “We were shooting in Afghanistan when the Taliban resurgence began, and we received death threats. It was a baptism by fire, but the support from the Afghan people helped us complete the film,” he recalls. This experience taught him resilience and adaptability—qualities that have been vital throughout his career.
The Influence of Documentary Filmmaking on Narrative Films
Khan attributes much of his success in narrative filmmaking to his documentary background, which trained him to be ready for anything. "Documentaries teach you to adapt when things don't go as planned," he says. “This mindset helps me handle unexpected changes, especially when shooting outdoors where many factors are beyond control. My years in documentaries have been instrumental in shaping my approach to filmmaking.”
Embracing the Future of Cinema with Digital and AI
As the film industry evolves with digital streaming platforms and AI, Khan views these changes as opportunities rather than threats. "Cinema is always reflecting the times, and we must adapt to new technologies and viewing habits," he explains. He sees the advent of OTT platforms as a way to expand storytelling opportunities rather than a replacement for traditional theatres. “More platforms mean more avenues for storytellers. The more, the merrier.”
Experiencing Melbourne Through Setara Khan recently worked in Melbourne on the short film ‘Setara’ an anthology film 'My Melbourne', a new format for him as a narrative filmmaker. "It was a beautiful experience working with an international crew and Afghan actors now based in Melbourne," he says. He also collaborated with Aryana Sayeed, a renowned Afghan singer, adding a layer of authenticity to the project. Khan appreciated the inclusivity and collaborative nature of the production, which deepened his connection to Melbourne’s vibrant culture.
A Special Connection with Melbourne Khan has a fondness for Melbourne, thanks to the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM). "Thanks to IFFM, Melbourne feels like a second home," he says. Through his recent work on Setara, he got to explore the city more deeply, appreciating its beauty and culture. "There’s something invigorating about Melbourne’s atmosphere. Every visit leaves me feeling refreshed."
Khan’s motivation lies in his passion for stories. “The hunger for storytelling keeps me going,” he shares. "It's a long process, taking about a year or more to make a film, so being passionate about the story is essential to see it through."
With projects in the pipeline and his dedication to exploring new stories, Kabir Khan continues to inspire as a filmmaker who merges history, humanity, and compelling narratives.
Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers
For emerging filmmakers, Khan advises staying true to one's artistic vision. “Make something that reflects what you truly believe in,” he says. “Don’t try to replicate someone else's success. Your unique voice is what will set you apart.” He emphasizes that predicting commercial success is nearly impossible, so filmmakers should focus on passion and authenticity rather than chasing trends. "We are artists, not traders. Make films with conviction, and they will find their place."
- Tonee Sethi
International dance sensation and actress Nora Fatehi made a striking appearance at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2024, taking on the role of a special judge for the festival's annual Remitly Dance Competition. Despite recovering from a recent leg injury, Nora was enthusiastic about her participation. "Dance is a universal language that brings
people together, and I am thrilled to witness the incredible talent and passion of the participants," she said.
Nora Fatehi’s journey from Toronto to the heart of Indian cinema is nothing short of extraordinary. Of Moroccan descent and a Canadian citizen, Nora has established herself
as a dynamic figure in Bollywood and beyond. Reflecting on her multifaceted career, she described it as a "roller coaster ride," filled with breaking stereotypes and achieving the seemingly impossible. "India has played an integral role in shaping my identity and career, offering me countless opportunities across different regions," Nora shared. From Telugu cinema to Bollywood films and Punjabi music videos, she has gained popularity across diverse film industries, establishing herself as a versatile performer.
Nora is eagerly anticipating the release of her South Indian debut, Matka, alongside Varun Tej, and her next film, Be Happy, with Abhishek Bachchan, which is scheduled for release next month. "It’s a really exciting time for me as a performer," she added, hinting at more diverse roles and ventures on the horizon.
Nora's involvement in IFFM 2024 underscores her expanding role not only as a performer but also as a cultural ambassador. Her dynamic presence and participation in events like IFFM reflect her commitment to celebrating and promoting Indian cinema on a global platform.
With her unique background and diverse talents, Nora Fatehi continues to break barriers and inspire audiences worldwide. Her participation in IFFM 2024 is another step in her journey to bridge cultures and connect with fans from all over the world. As she looks ahead, Nora remains focused on taking on new challenges and expanding her creative horizons, proving that her star continues to rise in the global entertainment landscape.
(G’day India)
Parenting styles have a significant impact on a child’s development, behaviour, and general well-being. The controlled parenting environment, often known as authoritarian parenting, is one of the parenting styles. In this parenting style, parents have extensive influence over their children’s activities, actions, and choices.
Dr Paula Goel, paediatrician, and adolescent specialist, at Fayth Clinic shares its characteristics and potential impacts on a controlled parenting environment:
Strict Rules and Regulations: In a controlled parenting environment, parents establish strict rules and regulations that govern the child’s behaviour, schedule, and activities. These rules are often non-negotiable and strictly enforced.
High Expectations: Controlled parents set high expectations for their children in academics, extracurricular activities, and social interactions. These expectations may sometimes be unrealistic, leading to undue pressure on the child.
Limited Autonomy: Children growing up in such an environment are given limited opportunities to make their own decisions. Parents often make choices on behalf of their children, leaving them with less autonomy to explore and learn from their experiences.
Supervision and Monitoring: Controlled parents closely monitor their child’s activities, both online and offline. They may limit access to certain media, friends, or activities deemed inappropriate.
Punitive Discipline: Consequences for breaking rules or not meeting expectations in a controlled parenting environment are often punitive in nature. This may include loss of privileges, grounding, or withholding affection.
Emphasis on Obedience: Obedience is highly valued in this parenting style, and children are expected to comply without questioning authority.
Anxiety and Stress: Children raised in a controlled parenting environment may experience heightened levels of anxiety and stress due to the pressure to meet high expectations and fear of punishment.
Low Self-Esteem: Constant scrutiny and lack of autonomy can lead to low self-esteem and a sense of inadequacy in children.
Rebellion or Withdrawal: Some children may rebel against strict rules and parental control, while others may withdraw emotionally to cope with the pressure.
Lack of Decision-Making Skills: Limited opportunities to make decisions on their own can hinder the development of crucial decisionmaking and problem-solving skills.
Difficulty in Expressing Emotions: Children in controlled environments may find it challenging to express their emotions openly, fearing judgment or punishment.
Social Challenges: The lack of freedom and autonomy may hinder a child’s social development and ability to form independent relationships with peers.
“While controlled parenting may arise from good intentions, it is crucial to consider
the potential impacts it may have on a child’s emotional, social, and cognitive development. A balanced approach to parenting that combines reasonable rules with fostering autonomy, communication, and empathy is always encouraged. As parents it is necessary to have open channels of communication, positive reinforcement, and allowing children to learn from their experiences – all this can nurture healthy growth and development, fostering a strong foundation for a bright future. As caregivers, it is essential to remain attentive to our children’s needs and ensure their emotional well-being while guiding them toward becoming confident and independent individuals”, concludes Dr. Paula Goel.
Concerns regarding the influence of social media platforms on youth mental health led the US Surgeon General to suggest a warning label for them. The Surgeon General’s Advisory on Social Media and Youth Mental Health highlighted potential links between social media use and poor sleep quality in youth. Given these issues, what particular measures should teenagers and parents take to enhance sleep?
A new national study, published in the Journal of Adolescent Health, offers insights into screen habits linked with better sleep.
“Ensuring adolescents get enough sleep is vital, as it supports their physical and mental growth and development,” says lead author Jason Nagata, MD, associate professor of paediatrics at the University of California, San Francisco. “Our research found that leaving notifications on, even in silent mode, leads to less sleep compared to turning the phone off completely or keeping it outside the bedroom.”
Tips include: Keep screens outside of the bedroom. Having a TV set or internet-connected device in the bedroom was associated with shorter sleep duration. Turn off the phone. Leaving the phone ringer on or turning notifications to silent or vibrate was associated with less sleep compared to turning the phone off entirely. Leaving the phone ringer on was associated with a 25% higher risk of sleep disturbance compared to turning it off. 16.2% of adolescents reported having a phone call, text message, or e-mail wake them up after trying to go to sleep in the past week.
Don’t use social media or other electronic devices before going to sleep. Using social media, chatting on the internet, playing video
games, browsing the internet, and watching or streaming movies, videos, or TV shows while in bed before sleeping were all associated with less sleep.
If you wake up during the night, don’t use your phone or engage with social media. One fifth of adolescents reported that they used their phone or other device after waking up during the night in the past week. This was associated with less sleep overnight.
The researchers analysed data from 9,398 preteens aged 11-12 who are part of the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study, the largest long-term study of brain development and child health in the United States. Data were collected from 2018-2021.
The adolescents and their parents answered questions about their sleep habits and youth were asked about their screen and social media use at bedtime. A quarter of preteens had sleep disturbance. 16.2% reported being woken
up by phone calls, text messages, or emails while sleeping at least once in the past week. Furthermore, 19.3% reported using their phone or another device if they woke up overnight.
“Adolescents can be extremely sensitive to phone notifications, often waking up instantly when they hear their phone,” said Nagata. “Even if a phone is on silent or vibrate, adolescents may still check it overnight. Once they start reading or responding to messages, they can become more alert and activated.”
“Adolescent development is a challenging time for many given the social pressures and physical, psychological, and emotional changes that occur,” said co-author, Kyle T. Ganson, PhD, assistant professor at the University of Toronto’s Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work. “Understanding this process and being present to support youth in their social media use is crucial.
Women with endometriosis -- a chronic gynaecological disease -- are at a 35 per cent higher risk of severe heart attack, according to a study.
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus, such as in the ovaries and fallopian tubes. It is more common among women between the ages of 30 and 40 and can cause severe pelvic pain, and abnormal or heavy menstrual flow.
To date, there is no cure or way to prevent endometriosis. Its symptoms can be treated with medicines.
While men are long known to be at higher risk of heart disease, the study by Danish researchers showed women with endometriosis have a 35 per cent increased risk of acute myocardial infarction (heart attack). They also had 20 per cent more chances of ischaemic stroke compared to those without endometriosis.
The study showed that the 40-year cumulative incidence of these conditions was 17.5 per cent and 15.3 per cent, respectively.
“For decades, cardiovascular disease (CVD) has been thought of as a man’s disease and risk factors have been considered from the male perspective, for example, including erectile dysfunction in guidelines on CVD risk assessment. Yet, one in three women die from CVD and one in 10 women suffer from endometriosis,” said lead author Dr.
Eva Havers-Borgersen from Rigshospitalet Copenhagen University Hospital, in Denmark.
“Our results suggest that it may be time to routinely consider the risk of CVD in women with endometriosis,” she added.
The research made use of Danish registries that included women diagnosed with endometriosis between 1977 and 2021.
In the analysis, 242,032 matched controls and 60,508 endometriosis-affected women were included. The controls were followed for a maximum of 45 years, and the median follow-up period was 16 years.
The women with endometriosis were also likely to be more prone to a higher risk of arrhythmias and heart failure. The study suggests that women with endometriosis should undergo cardiovascular risk assessment and consider female-specific risk factors in cardiovascular risk prediction models. (IANS)
While consuming sugar-sweetened beverages like sodas, fruit punch, and lemonade, at home or outside is quite a norm, these may lead to significant harm to health -- from infections in teeth, and kidneys to heart disease, said experts.
Sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) are drinks that contain added sugar or other sweeteners, such as high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), sucrose, or fruit juice concentrates. These include: non-diet sodas, flavoured juice, sports or energy drinks, sweetened tea, and coffee, among others.
“These sweeteners are a major concern that can cause multiple health complications like weight gain, obesity, and diabetes. Along with this, it also leads to a long-lasting impact on the heart, and kidney and also results in dental complications,” Dr. Manish Mittal, Consultant Physician, Bhailal Amin General Hospital, Vadodara, said.
Additives like fructose, high fructose corn, and brown sugar “increase the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease”, said Dr Narendra Singhla, Lead Consultant – Internal Medicine at the CK
“Consuming high amounts of added sugars can lead to weight gain, inflammation, and insulin resistance. To prevent these risks, opt for unsweetened drinks, and limit sugary beverage intake to less than 10 per cent of daily calorie needs,” he added.
A recent study by researchers at Harvard University in the US showed that high consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages may also increase the incidence of and mortality from cardiovascular disease (CVD), especially among those with diabetes.
The study, published in the BMJ, showed that every additional daily serving of sugarsweetened beverages was associated with an 8 per cent higher all-cause mortality.
“Long-term consumption of these sugarsweetened beverages can also affect cardiovascular health. People with existing conditions like diabetes and hypertension will be more affected if they consume these drinks daily. If a person already has diabetes, and yet he is using these sweeteners, then diabetes will naturally go out of control and they will be at a double risk,” Mittal said.
“Even consuming sugar-free supplements are equally detrimental and have the same side-effects along with impacting gut health,” the doctor said.
Singhla suggested choosing natural sources of sweetness, like fruits and vegetables, and being “mindful of hidden sugars in processed foods”.
The experts also called for adopting a balanced diet and regular physical activity for better health. (AGENCIES)
Unable to sleep better on weekdays due to busy schedules? Sleeping in on weekends may not only compensate for lost sleep but may reduce your heart disease risk by one-fifth too, according to a study.
“Sufficient compensatory sleep is linked to a lower risk of heart disease. The association becomes even more pronounced among individuals who regularly experience inadequate sleep on weekdays,” said study author Yanjun Song of the State Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease, Fuwai Hospital, Beijing, which is also the National Centre for Cardiovascular Disease.
It is generally known that those who experience sleep deprivation, “sleep in” on their days off, just to compensate for that one day they missed.
Accelerometers, a device used to measure sleep patterns, were employed by the authors to collect sleep data from 90,903 participants in the UK Biobank project in order to assess the association between compensated weekend sleep and heart disease.
The participants were divided into
For strong hair follicles, eat cabbage since it contains methyl-sulfonylmethane which aids keratin production
Every parent knows that taking children to a dentist often involves a lot of will power and coaxing. And at times, you might even be compelled to drop the plans. Dr Ved, principal dentist, and the founder of Healthy Smiles Dental Group have provided us few tips to ease out this hurdle in parenting.
Injex For Needle Phobia
4 quarters, with quarter 1 being the least compensated with sleep, and quarter 4 being the most compensated one. Individuals who self-reported getting less than 7 hours of sleep per night were considered to be suffering from sleep deprivation. 19,816 (21.8 per cent) of the individuals in total were classified as sleep deprived. The remaining members of the cohort might have occasionally had insufficient sleep, but overall, their daily sleep hours did not satisfy the standards for sleep deprivation; the authors acknowledge this as a limitation to their findings.
It was possible to diagnose a number of cardiac conditions, such as ischemic heart disease (IHD), heart failure (HF), atrial fibrillation (AF), and stroke, using hospitalisation records and information from the cause of death registry.
“Our results show that for the significant proportion of the population in modern society that suffers from sleep deprivation, those who have the most ‘catchup’ sleep at weekends have significantly lower rates of heart disease than those with the least,” said Zechen Liu, of the same laboratory.
Most of the fear in children arises out of seeing the needle. How wonderful it would be if we remove it at once! Healthy Smiles offers to inject local anaesthesia through a needle-free device known as injex. It sprays the medicine onto the target area to be absorbed by the tissues. The uptake time may vary from child to child but is generally fast. Injex is definitely a better option than injections as it doesn’t cause pain.
Start Their Consultations Early
It is all about conditioning. Children grasp things fast and get used to habits faster than you may think. It is advised to start visiting the dentist, for your child, as early as they reach 6 months of age. Dentists can keep a track of the growth of teeth and prevent tooth decay right from the beginning. Doing so is important for healthy teeth as well as instilling good oral hygiene habits into kids. Visiting the dentist from the beginning makes it a norm and is easily acceptable by children.
Use A Positive Language
Most adults do not like to visit dentists either and speak badly about their dental care experiences. But remember, you can only make a change if you stay positive. Do not use words like “painful”, “hurting”, “boring”, etc. Use words such as “wonderful”, “important”, and “healthy”. They might have heard someone else speak negatively
about a dentist visit. Help them forget that and choose a paediatric dentist who treats them thoughtfully.
Strictly Avoid Bribery
People are often seen bribing their children for doing things, especially visiting the dentist. Bribery doesn’t only make the task seem difficult for children but can also create serious behavioural issues as grownups. It is better to explain to them the need for dental hygiene and visiting a dentist, rather than offering them toys and sweets in return.
Take Help from Animated Friends
As you know, being a child has its own perks. Watching lots and lots of cartoons or reading story books filled with images are a couple of them. Your child must have one or two favourite cartoon shows or characters. Take examples from these stories and relate it to help your child understand how they, like their favourite characters, must go to the dentist.
Choose the Right Dentist
In the end, it all comes down to a single factor. Selecting a dentist who can understand the mindsets of children is very important. This ensures a better experience for everyone. The right dentist can help a child forget past bad experiences. Healthy Smiles Dental Group has enthusiastic and cordial dentists who specialise
Dr Ved Berani BDS(Mum), ADEC(Aust), MBA(Melb), FIADFE, MFGDP(UK)
Principal Dentist & Clinical Advisor
Healthy Smiles Dental Group 150-152 Canterbury Rd, Blackburn South VIC 3130 Call us: (03) 9877 2035
The neurodegenerative condition known as Parkinson’s disease is transported by the loss of neurons that produce dopamine, a neurotransmitter essential for both motor control and cognitive function. The number of people with Parkinson’s disease is rising quickly as the world’s population ages. Reactive oxygen species overproduction damages neurones, which causes Parkinson’s disease.
Because reactive oxygen species formation kills dopaminergic neurones, which control dopamine neurotransmitters, it must be suppressed. Since there is now just symptomatic treatment available, therapeutic regimens and preventative measures must be developed.
Fortunately, Associate Professor Akiko Kojima-Yuasa of Osaka Metropolitan University’s Graduate School of Human Life and Ecology led a research group that has verified the physiological effect of Ecklonia cava polyphenols, seaweed antioxidants, on the prevention of Parkinson’s disease.
In this study, two types of motor function tests were conducted using Parkinson’s disease model mice that were orally fed the antioxidants daily for one week and then administered rotenone. Results showed
that motor function, which was decreased by rotenone, was restored. There was also improvement in intestinal motor function and the colon mucosa structure, a special tissue that covers the colon.
Further, cellular experiments using Parkinson’s disease model cells verified the biochemical interaction of the preventive effect of Ecklonia cava. Validation results showed that the antioxidants activate the AMPK enzyme (adenosine monophosphate-activated
protein kinase), an intracellular energy sensor, and inhibit the production of reactive oxygen species that cause neuronal cell death.
“This study suggests that Ecklonia cava antioxidants may reduce neuronal damage by AMPK activation and inhibiting intracellular reactive oxygen species production,” stated Professor Kojima-Yuasa. “It is hoped that Ecklonia cava will be an effective ingredient in the prevention of Parkinson’s disease.
(AGENCIES)
A Michigan Medicine study found that high systolic blood pressure (the top number on the blood pressure reading and how hard the heart pumps blood to the arteries) increases the risk of the two most common types of strokes over time.
The study looked at the average systolic blood pressure years before the first stroke in over 40,000 adults aged 18 and older who had no history of stroke.
Researchers covered three types of stroke: ischemic, a clot that cuts blood supply to the brain and the cause of over 85 per cent of all strokes; intracerebral hemorrhage, a bleed within the brain; and subarachnoid hemorrhage, bleeding between the brain and the tissues that cover it.
They found that having a mean systolic blood pressure that is 10-mm Hg higher than average was associated with a 20 per cent higher risk of overall stroke and ischemic stroke, as well as a 31% greater risk of intracerebral hemorrhage.
“Our results suggest that early diagnosis and sustained control of high blood pressure over the lifespan are critical to preventing stroke, ischemic stroke and intracerebral hemorrhage, especially in Black and Hispanic patients who are more likely to have uncontrolled
hypertension than white patients,” said senior author Deborah A. Levine, M.D., M.P.H., professor of internal medicine and neurology at University of Michigan Medical School. Black patients had a 20 per cent higher risk of ischemic stroke and a 67 per cent higher risk of intracerebral hemorrhage than white patients.
Hispanic patients had a 281% higher risk of subarachnoid hemorrhage, but not any other stroke type, compared to white patients. While Black and Hispanic patients had a higher risk of stroke, researchers found little evidence to suggest that race and ethnicity affected the association between cumulative systolic blood pressure and the type of stroke that affected any patient.
“Examining racial inequities advances our
understanding of the social, economic and political structures that affect health behaviors and risk for stroke among racial and ethnic minority groups,” said Kimson E. Johnson, Ph.D., M.A., M.S.W., first author and postdoctoral research fellow at the University of Michigan.
While systolic blood pressure is a modifiable target for preventing stroke and other cardiovascular diseases, a national study conducted in 2020 found that blood pressure control in the United States worsened from 2013 to 2018, especially for Black and Hispanic adults.
Self-monitoring of blood pressure improves blood pressure diagnosis and control and is accurate and cost-effective, but it remains an underused tool, Levine says.
“Two major barriers to self-monitoring of blood pressure are lack of patient education and insurance not covering the home blood pressure monitors, which cost $50 or more,” she said.
“Health care systems and providers must educate and urge their patients to do home blood pressure monitoring, and insurers must pay for home blood pressure monitors to optimize people’s blood pressure and reduce their chances of having a stroke. (AGENCIES)
US researchers announced a new wearable, long-term continuous heart monitor that is likely to identify more cases of irregular heart rhythm -- also known as atrial fibrillation linked to the risk of stroke and heart failure -- compared to usual care.
However, the heart monitors did not lead to a reduction in hospitalisations due to stroke, said the team at the Duke Clinical Research Institute in North Carolina, US.
“Atrial fibrillation is often undiagnosed and can increase the risk of ischemic stroke, which is largely reversible by oral anticoagulation,” said lead author Renato Lopes, Professor of Medicine at the Institute.
“We still need definitive evidence that diagnosis of atrial fibrillation through systematic screening can lead to subsequent treatment with oral anticoagulation and therefore, lower stroke risk,” Lopes said.
The study, published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, enrolled approximately 12,000 patients in the US who were at least 70 years old with no history of atrial fibrillation.
About half the patients were randomly assigned to receive 14 days continuous monitoring device, and the other half usual care.
After 15 months of follow-up, the study reported
a 52 per cent increase in the number of cases of atrial fibrillation diagnosed among the devicewearers compared to those in usual care.
While there was no increase in rates of hospitalisation for bleeding, no significant reduction was found in the rate of hospitalisations for all strokes compared with usual care.
Heart rate monitors are devices that come with built-in sensors to help detect and track heart or pulse rate continuously.
The devices are also available in smartwatches and help in tracking heart rate during exercise, monitoring heart rate for stress, and alerting in case of an anomaly. But these cannot be substitutes for medical devices that are much more accurate.
Taking research on love to a whole new level, a team of scientists revealed that different types of love light up different parts of the brain.
Humans use the word ‘love’ in several range of contexts -- from sexual adoration to parental love or the love of nature. Now, more comprehensive imaging of the brain may shed light on why we use the same word for such a diverse collection of human experiences.
Researchers from Aalto University in Finland utilised functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to measure brain activity while subjects mulled brief stories related to six different types of love.
Parttyli Rinne, the philosopher and researcher who coordinated the study, said that the activation pattern of love is generated in social situations in the basal ganglia, the midline of the forehead, the precuneus and the temporoparietal junction at the sides of the back of the head.
“In parental love, there was activation deep in the brain’s reward system in the striatum area while imagining love, and this was not seen for any other kind of love,’ Rinne noted.
Love for romantic partners, friends, strangers, pets and nature were also part of
the study, which was published in the Cerebral Cortex journal, Oxford University Press.
The research found that brain activity is influenced not only by the closeness of the object of love, but also by whether it is a human being, another species or nature.
“Unsurprisingly, compassionate love for strangers was less rewarding and caused less brain activation than love in close relationships. Meanwhile, love of nature activated the reward system and visual areas of the brain, but not the
social brain areas,” it noted.
A key surprise for the researchers was that the brain areas associated with love between people ended up being very similar, with differences lying primarily in the intensity of activation.
All types of interpersonal love activated areas of the brain associated with social cognition, in contrast to love for pets or nature — with one exception, the study noted.
(IANS)
Cinema icon Manoj Bajpayee, who recently bagged his fourth National Award, is an exceptional cook as well. The actor recently cooked a special mutton curry on the sets of his next project and had the crew singing praise for his culinary skills.
The actor recently shared a video of him
cooking his special “Babuji mutton” on the Stories section of his Instagram. The delectable mutton recipe oozes oil with tender pieces of the meat and was paired with bajra roti.
The executive producer of Manoj’s upcoming title shared the video on his social media which the actor later reposted.
The EP wrote, “Our talented chef Manoj Bajpayee treated the crew to his signature Babuji Mutton, and it was absolutely delicious. Paired with hot Bajara roti, it’s a perfect match for today’s weather”.
He further mentioned, “For those who truly appreciate good food, having Chef Manoj in your kitchen is a blessing. I know only you @ shabanabajpayee can afford his skills! Note: I can’t share his image or video as he’s in character costume”.
In the video Manoj could be heard saying, “Tel dekh rahe ho (Look at the quantity of oil)”.
Going by the name of the delicacy, it seems to be the dish created by Manoj’s father.
The EP refrained from sharing the video of Manoj cooking the delicacy as the former mentioned that he couldn’t capture Manoj in his lens as the actor was in his character’s costume. Posting an image or video of Manoj in the costume will breach the non-disclosure agreement to keep the project and its details away from the public eye till the time of its release.
Meanwhile, Manoj bagged his 4th National Award for his streaming movie ‘Gulmohar’ in which he shared the screen with veteran actress Sharmila Tagore.
Manoj is also the recipient of Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award for his contribution to cinema.
Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah, whose streaming show ‘IC 814 The Kandahar Hijack’ released on Thursday, feels that film promotions have become redundant and serve no purpose in amping up the curiosity of the audience.
The actor recently sat down for a roundtable conversation with his co-actors from the show, Vijay Varma, Arvind Swami, Pankaj Kapur and Manoj Pahwa, and the director of the show, Anubhav Sinha.
When Anubhav asked him why he dislikes promotions, Naseeruddin Shah said, “I feel it makes no difference. Mere khayal se actors ko shauk hota hai promotions ka aur apna thobda dikhaane k television pe. (I feel the actors love doing the promotions and to show their faces on screen as it helps them grab the eyeballs)”.
The actor further mentioned that the audience “smells out” what they want to see. He then went on to recollect how his generation would wait for films for over 2 years.
He shared, “I remember when I was in school or college, Dilip Kumar’s films used to get released in a span of 2 years. But we used to plan in advance that we are going to watch
this film. Nothing would dissuade me from seeing it”.
“The audience decides what they want to see, and us saying that ‘We have worked really hard on this film’ makes no difference to them. You have worked hard but that’s your job as an actor, why are you heaping praise on yourself?”, he added.
‘IC 814 The Kandahar Hijack’ is based
on the hijack of Indian Airlines Flight 814, an Indian Airlines Airbus A300 en route from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal, to Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, India, in December 1999. The flight was hijacked and was flown to several locations before landing in Kandahar, Afghanistan which was then under the control of Taliban.
By Simran Sethi
One of India’s finest actors, Rajkummar Rao, says he would always want to be known for his art first, as he feels stardom is just a tag given by people.
Asked how he would define stardom today, the National Award-winning actor said: I think stardom is a tag, to be honest,
that people give you. Of course, it’s a great feeling when people call you a star, superstar.”
The actor, who made his debut in 2010 with “Love Sex Aur Dhokha”, said he first wants to be known for his craft.
“But for me, I would always want people to know me as an actor, like a guy who’s known for his art first. And then comes the tags, of course, that is secondary.”
In a career spanning 14 years, Rajkummar has worked in over 30 films and has been feted with several honours including a National Film Award and an Asia Pacific Screen Award. He also appeared on Forbes India’s Celebrity 100 list in 2017.
Does he feel he has achieved it all, the actor said: “No, no, of course, there’s a lot more to offer. I’m very hungry as an actor. I’m very greedy as an actor.”
He said that he doesn’t want to be “complacent ever”.
“Acting is such a vast universe, nobody
can ever say I know it all. With every new film, you’re exploring something new. You’re challenging yourself as an actor. So, it’s a never-ending process. The learning never stops. “
“So, I think that feeling would never come to me that, you know, now I’ve achieved it.”
Looking forward, Rajkummar on his 40th birthday treated his fans by announcing his next film “Maalik,” an action thriller directed by Pulkit, who has previously helmed “Dedh Beegha Zameen”, “Bose: Dead/Alive” and “Bhakshak”.
Rajkummar took to Instagram, where he shared the film’s poster, in which he is seen standing on top of a jeep holding an AK-47. The poster also features a line of trucks queued up in front of him.
The poster had: “Maalik. Paida nahi ho sakta ban toh sakta hai,” written on it.
This will be the first time the actor will be seen playing the role of a gangster in an action thriller. The film shoot is now in progress. (AGENCIES)
Actor Sidharth Malhotra is happy to see men wearing make-up and said that it a “refreshing change” as it reflects broader societal acceptance of self-expression.
“I think the shift towards men wearing makeup is a refreshing change that reflects broader societal acceptance of self-expression. We’re now seeing a growing recognition that beauty is not gender-specific,” Sidharth said.
The actor credits social media for normalising the trend.
“The rise of social media platforms has played a significant role in normalizing this trend. Many men are embracing makeup as part of their grooming routine.”
He said that it is more than just about looking good.
“This isn’t just about looking good; for many, it’s a form of self-care and creativity. It’s exciting to see how this evolution allows men to explore their identities and express themselves without the constraints of traditional gender norms. It’s all about feeling comfortable in your own skin and using makeup as a means of self-expression. As an actor I wear makeup for various
roles.”
The actor had earlier spoken about his actress-wife Kiara Advani’s fashion sense and described it as “undeniably bold and adventurous”.
Talking about his wife’s fashion, Sidharth said: “Kiara’s fashion sense is undeniably bold and adventurous.”
“She fearlessly embraces the latest trends and isn’t afraid to experiment with color and embellishments. While her style is distinctly glamorous, she also maintains a strong sense of individuality,” he shared.
Talking about the actor, he kicked off his journey as an assistant director to Karan Johar in “My Name Is Khan” in 2010. It was in 2012, when he starred in the filmmaker’s directorial “Student of the Year,” which made him an instant sensation.
In his over-a-decade was then seen in “Hasee Toh Phasee,” “Ek Villain”, “Kapoor & Sons,” “A Gentleman,” “Aiyaary,” “Jabariya Jodi” among many others.
(IANS)
Actress Tamannaah
Bhatia does not need much to be happy, going by what she has shared on social media.
The actress took to her Instagram, where she shared two glimpses. The first is a video, where she seems to be a little grumpy sitting in the backseat of her car. She is seen dressed in a green striped outfit.
She captioned the clip: “Do you want to see a happy human?”
The second glimpse was a photograph, where she is seen holding a croissant and a hot cup of joe. The actress is seen smiling ear-toear.
Few days ago, Tamannaah shared a sneakpeek of her favourite vegetable. Confessing her love to bhindi (lady finger), the actress shared a selfie picture, wherein she can be seen wearing
a white outfit and sitting in a car.
The picture was captioned: “Lunch mein kya hain”.
She then showed her lunch box. It includes ‘bhindi’ (lady finger), quinoa, lentils and lemon. She tagged it as: “For all the bhindi lovers in the house”.
On the work front, Tamannaah created a tizzy with her dance performance on the song “Aaj Ki Raat” in the comedy horror film “Stree 2,” directed by Amar Kaushik. A spiritual sequel to the 2018 movie “Stree”, it stars Shraddha Kapoor and Rajkummar in the lead, alongside Pankaj Tripathi, Abhishek and Aparshakti Khurana.
Tamannaah will next be seen in the Telugu supernatural thriller film “Odela 2” directed by Ashok Teja and created by Sampath Nandi. The film also stars Hebah Patel, Vasishta N Simha in lead roles, alongside Yuva, Naga Mahesh, Vamsi, Gagan Vihari, Surender Reddy, Bhupal and Pooja Reddy.
The actress, who is dating actor Vijay Varma, also has “Daring Partners” in her kitty.
(IANS)
Bollywood star Kareena Kapoor Khan, who is gearing up for her upcoming police procedural drama film ‘The Buckingham Murders’, once shared that she likes to take care of home.
The actress is one of the most bankable stars of the industry but there’s a side to her which like to take charge of what happens around the house and multi-task while at it.
In an old video, Kareena can be seen saying, “Everything is my department. What the kids will eat at home, the play dates, their classes, what’s cooking at home, what’s Saif eating, I love doing all of that. I love multitasking. I love being an actor, a star and a housewife.”
She further mentioned, “If I’m having people over at my house, I love to clean the table. In a way that gives some power to me.”
Meanwhile, on the work front, the actress is awaiting the release of her upcoming movie ‘The Buckingham Murders’.
Recently, the poster of the film was unveiled. It shows Kareena walking on the cold London streets as her back faces the camera.
The film is directed by Hansal Mehta, who
is known for ‘Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story’, ‘Aligarh’, ‘Shahid’, and others.
The film also stars Ash Tandon, celebrity chef Ranveer Brar, and Keith Allen.
It is written by Aseem Arrora, Kashyap Kapoor, and Raghav Raj Kakker.
In ‘The Buckingham Murders’, Kareena essays the role of a British-Indian detective, Jasmeet Bhamra, who has recently lost her child. She is assigned the case of a murdered 10-year-old child in Buckinghamshire.
The film is a Mahana Films and TBM Films production, presented by Balaji Telefilms and produced by Shobha Kapoor and Ektaa R Kapoor.
Kareena also has the Rohit Shettydirectorial ‘Singham Again’ in the pipeline.
(IANS)
Varun Dhawan: I derive all my strength from my mother
Actor Varun Dhawan has spoken about adulting and how he derives his strength from his mother.
During the launch of “Binny and Family”, Varun was asked if his thinking has changed after becoming a father.
He said: “Thoda ajeeb lagta hai ki mummy papa ne abhi abhi daanta hai aur fir hum biwi ke room main bachi bhi daant rahe hai aur fir biwi bhi daantti hai… us waqt aap sochti aapka position kya hai ghar pe… I mean we call this term adulting when you are in between both of these situations. I am very lucky.”
“Mera ek badha bhai hai jo bahut load bhi leta hai … What becomes extremely scary or difficult for the child is the parent’s health…. Jab hum chote hote hai to maa baap worry karte hai abhi bhi karte hai but the same goes for my brother Sidharth and sister Shilpa who are also here …”
“I derive all my strength from my mother, and I am sure they must be getting theirs also from their mother.”
“Binny and Family” revolves around a London-based teenager Binny and her conservative grandfather from Bihar, India, who come to live with her. Their contrasting lifestyles lead to conflict, but a dramatic event forces them to find common ground.
The film also stars Rajesh Kumar, Charu Shankar, Pankaj Kapur, Anjini Dhawan and Himani Shivpuri.
Talking about Varun, he will next be seen in “Baby John”, an action thriller film directed by Kalees and produced by Atlee, Murad Khetani and Jyoti Deshpande under Jio Studios, Cine1 Studios and A for Apple Productions. It also stars Keerthy Suresh, Jackie Shroff and Wamiqa Gabbi. The film is a remake of Atlee’s Tamil 2016 film “Theri”. (IANS)
why ‘meaningful relationships’ have been difficult to come by for her
Veteran star Zeenat Aman said that ‘meaningful relationships’ have been difficult to come
“Stop
by because her public persona has always overshadowed her true self.
Zeenat shared an old picture of herself on Insta from her younger days and wrote that “a meditation on meaningful relationships.”
The 72-year-old diva, who was first married to actor Sanjay Khan and was annulled in 1979, after he beat her and physically assaulted her, said that she has not had too many meaningful relationships.
“I didn’t dwell on it when I was younger, but now I have been giving it some thought. There is a saying - it’s lonely at the top. Well, it’s lonely at the bottom too. I have experienced both,” said the actress, who then got married to actor Mazhar Khan in 1985.
She added: “In my own private examination of my life, I have realised a crude truth. Meaningful relationships have been difficult to come by because my public persona has always overshadowed my true self.”
She said that the “idea that people have of me has been something of a prison, even while it has been a privilege.”
“With men, their intent was almost always obvious, which was flattering but ultimately shallow. And with women… the nature of society, especially back in those days, forced comparisons that led to envy in one too many cases.”
She then asked what is the measure of a meaningful relationship then?
For the actress, it is “when there is reciprocity.”
“In celebrating each other’s successes, enduring the bad times together, being able to speak and receive home truths, and above all, reaching a point where your outward masks (and don’t we all have them?) can be removed.”
“Sadly, I have had limited success in this arena. The silver lining is that it has made me cherish those meaningful relationships I do have all the more. Perhaps I have bored you with this pontification, but it is followed by this one earnest wish - that each of you finds meaningful relationships, romantic or otherwise, to add brilliance to your lives.
(AGENCIES)
Veteran actor Shabana Azmi expressed her deep dismay over the brutal rape and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata earlier last month.
Speaking with media after attending an event in Pune, Shabana urged people to stop treating women as commodities.
“ Such incidents are extremely dangerous. It’s embarrassing to see that these kinds of heinous acts have not reduced despite the formation of Justice Verma Committee back in 2012 during the Nirbhaya case. We should not treat women as commodities... we need to dismantle patriarchy which is deep-rooted in us,” Shabana Azmi said.
Earlier, President Droupadi Murmu expressed anguish over the rising cases of crimes against women in the wake of the gruesome rape and murder of the young doctor in Kolkata. She penned an open letter ‘Women’s Safety: Enough is Enough’ in which she called for selfintrospection to uncover the roots of the malaise.
Expressing concern over collective amnesia over the memory of criminality, she said the time has come not only to face history squarely “but also to search within our souls and probe the pathology of crime against women”.
The President called for honouring the memory of the victims to make society more vigilant in the future and said the recent spate
of crimes against women should force honest introspection.
She spoke of the need to counter the mindset that sees “the female as a lesser human being, less powerful, less capable, less intelligent” and said it is “objectification of women by a few that is behind the crimes against women”.
“The gruesome incident of rape and murder of a doctor in Kolkata has left the nation shocked. I was dismayed and horrified when I came to hear of it. What is more depressing is the fact that it was not the only incident of
its kind; it is part of a series of crimes against women. Even as students, doctors and citizens were protesting in Kolkata, criminals remained on the prowl elsewhere. The victims include even kindergarten girls. No civilised society can allow daughters and sisters to be subjected to such atrocities. The nation is bound to be outraged, and so am I,” she said.
The trainee doctor was found dead in the seminar hall of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata on August 9.
(AGENCIES)
Grapefruits have liver-cleansing properties and are also high in vitamin C and
For busy professionals, juggling work responsibilities and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can often feel like an uphill battle. The demanding schedules, frequent meetings, and tight deadlines can make it challenging to prioritize nutritious eating.
However, with the right strategies and a little planning, it’s possible to achieve a harmonious balance. Here, we’ll explore eight healthy eating hacks tailored by Dr. Rohini Patil, MBBS, Nutritionist, to the hectic lives of professionals, enabling them to stay energized and focused on their careers without compromising their wellbeing.
Prioritize Meal Prep: Effective meal planning is the cornerstone of healthy eating for professionals. Allocate a portion of your weekly schedule to planning and prepping meals in advance. This could mean cooking in batches, portioning meals, or even just chopping veggies for easy access. Having healthy, ready-toeat options readily available reduces the temptation to opt for fast food or unhealthy snacks.
Pack Snacks Smartly: Busy workdays often include meetings and conference calls, leaving little time for full meals. Packing smart snacks like fresh fruit, nuts, Greek yogurt, protein bar or whole-grain crackers can help you stay nourished and focused during these hectic moments. These snacks provide a quick energy boost without the guilt.
Hydrate Mindfully: Staying hydrated is essential for overall well-being and productivity. Keep a reusable water bottle on your desk to encourage regular sips throughout the day. Explore herbal teas or infused water to enjoy additional flavor and potential benefits. Dehydration can sometimes be mistaken for hunger, so staying adequately hydrated can also help control unnecessary snacking.
Choose Nutrient-Dense Foods: Incorporate foods that provide maximum nutrition in minimal calories. Opt for lean proteins, whole grains, and an abundance of vegetables in your meals. These foods offer essential vitamins and minerals to fuel your body and brain without causing energy slumps.
Practice Mindful Eating: Amidst tight
schedules, it’s common to eat on the go or in front of a computer screen. However, practicing mindful eating, which involves savoring your food and paying attention to your body’s hunger cues, can help you make better food choices and prevent overeating. Allocate a few minutes to step away from your desk and enjoy your meal mindfully.
Limit Sugary and Caffeinated Beverages: The temptation to rely on sugary drinks and excessive caffeine can be strong, especially during long workdays. While an occasional coffee boost is fine, try to limit these beverages. Opt for herbal teas, water, or unsweetened options to prevent energy crashes and maintain focus.
Office-Friendly Exercise: Integrate brief moments of physical activity into your workday. Simple stretches, a walk around the office, or even desk exercises can help you stay active and relieve stress. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle isn’t just about eating right; it’s also about staying active.
Allow Occasional Indulgence: Balancing
a busy professional life with healthy eating doesn’t mean you can never indulge. Enjoy occasional treats or dine out with colleagues or friends. Allowing yourself these moments of enjoyment can help you stay motivated to maintain a nutritious diet in the long run.
Achieving a healthy work-life balance is vital for professionals, and nutrition plays a pivotal role in this equation. The eight healthy eating hacks discussed in this article are designed to empower busy individuals to make mindful food choices, improve overall well-being, and enhance their performance in the workplace.
“Remember, a healthy diet isn’t a onesize-fits-all concept. Tailor these strategies suggested by Dr. Rohini Patil, MBBS, Nutritionist, to your unique schedule and dietary preferences. By integrating these practices into your daily routine, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: a thriving career and a well-nourished, energetic, and focused you. So, fuel your success with nutritious choices,” concludes Dr. Rohini Patil.
Beautiful and healthy hair is a desire shared by many. While there are numerous hair care products available, natural remedies can often be equally effective and gentler on your hair. One such natural remedy that has gained popularity is fenugreek seeds.
Known for their potent properties, fenugreek seeds offer a range of benefits for hair health. In this article, we will explore the various advantages of fenugreek seeds for hair and learn how to use them effectively for luscious locks.
Fenugreek, scientifically known as Trigonella foenum-graecum, is a versatile herb native to the Mediterranean region and South Asia. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and culinary practices.
Fenugreek seeds are rich in essential nutrients, including proteins, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These seeds also contain compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids, and saponins, which contribute to their beneficial effects on hair.
Benefits of fenugreek seeds for hair Promotes Hair Growth Fenugreek seeds are known to stimulate hair growth by nourishing the hair follicles and increasing blood circulation to the scalp. The proteins present in fenugreek seeds strengthen the hair shaft, reducing hair fall and promoting the growth of new, healthy strands.
Conditions and Moisturizes Fenugreek seeds possess excellent conditioning properties that help in reducing dryness and frizz. Regular use of fenugreek seeds as a hair mask or rinse can
make your hair soft, smooth, and manageable. They also provide hydration to the scalp, preventing flakiness and itching.
Prevents Hair Loss Fenugreek seeds contain hormone-regulating compounds that may help in preventing hair loss caused by hormonal imbalances. Additionally, the seeds have antimicrobial properties that protect the scalp from infections, reducing the risk of hair loss due to scalp conditions.
Controls Dandruff The antifungal and antibacterial properties of fenugreek seeds make them an effective remedy for dandruff. Regular application of fenugreek seed paste or oil can help reduce scalp inflammation, itching, and flaking associated with dandruff.
How to use it for hair
Fenugreek Seed Hair Mask
4Soak fenugreek seeds overnight and grind them into a smooth paste.
4Add a tablespoon of coconut oil or yogurt to the paste for added nourishment.
4Apply the paste to your scalp and hair, focusing on the roots.
4Leave it on for about 30 minutes to an hour and then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
Fenugreek Seed Hair Rinse
4Boil two tablespoons of fenugreek seeds in
two cups of water for 10-15 minutes.
4Allow the mixture to cool, strain it, and use the fenugreek-infused water as a final rinse after shampooing.
4Gently massage the scalp while pouring the fenugreek rinse over your hair.
4Leave it on for a few minutes and then rinse with water.
Fenugreek Seed Oil
4Heat a tablespoon of fenugreek seeds in a carrier oil like coconut oil or olive oil.
4Let the seeds infuse the oil for a few minutes until they turn slightly brown.
4Allow the oil to cool, strain it, and store it in a clean container.
4Massage the fenugreek seed oil onto your scalp and hair, leave it on for an hour or overnight, and then shampoo as usual.
Fenugreek seeds are a natural remedy packed with incredible benefits for hair health. From promoting hair growth and preventing hair loss to conditioning and controlling dandruff, fenugreek seeds offer a holistic approach to hair care. Incorporating fenugreek seeds into your hair care routine through masks, rinses, or oil treatments can lead to stronger, healthier, and more lustrous locks. Embrace the power of nature and give fenugreek seeds a try to transform your hair naturally. (IANSlife)
BY DEEVYA GUPTA
Did you know a staggering 70-100% of Indians suffer from Vitamin D deficiency, putting them at risk of weak bones and teeth ? Calcium, the core mineral for a strong skeletal system, relies heavily on sufficient vitamin D levels
Calcium is found in various foods and drinks. Most of our daily recommended intake comes from dairy sources. Those who prefer to avoid dairy or have dairy alternatives can still meet their calcium requirements through other alternative options. Don’t let calcium deficiency weaken your bones. Discover alternative sources, understand the importance of vitamin D, and take control of your bone health today.
Where can I get Vitamin D from?
Did you know that your body is a Vitamin D factory, producing this essential nutrient when your skin meets the sunlight? During the summer months, just 10-15 minutes of midday sun exposure can boost your vitamin D levels, but in winter you may need up to one hour to get the same effect!
Small amounts of Vitamin D can be found in: Fortified foods, eggs, salmon, tuna, mackerel and Vitamin D mushrooms. The amount found in foods is not enough
to provide you for the day, but this is still not enough to meet our daily needs. That’s why many of us need a little help from supplements to help boost our levels up.
How much calcium do we need in one day?
This depends on your age group and if you are referring to men or women. The serving suggestions can vary from 2.5 serves, up to 4 serves per day. Some medical conditions
may cause the need for slightly different amounts.
What food gives me 1 serve of calcium?
Found easily in:
● 250ml regular, low fat or skim milk
● 250ml milk alternative (soy, almond, rice etc. with added calcium)
● 2 slices or 40g cheese
● ¾ cup or 200g yoghurt (regular or low fat)
● ½ cup evaporative milk
● ½ cup or 130g tofu or tempeh
● 1 can sardines
Calcium present in lesser quantities:
● 1 cup cooked broccoli = ½ of 1 serve
● 6 dried figs = 2/3 of 1 serve
● 1 can salmon = 2/3 of 1 serve
● 10 almonds = 1/10 of 1 serve
● 200g soy beans =1/3 of 1 serve
● 1 cup cooked bok choy =1/5 of 1 serve
● 1 cup chopped celery = 1/5 of 1 serve
Stay sunny-side up and boost your Vitamin D levels for a healthier happier you, all whilst staying ahead of the calcium curve and ensuring a healthier tomorrow.
Please note this advice is of a general nature. If you have any concerns or queries you should get tailored advice from an accredited practicing dietitian and always consult with your General Practitioner before making any changes.
For a really quick meal try this chicken dish cooked with vegies in a mild sauce.
Making chicken doesn’t has to be always an elaborate process.
I have used skinless chicken breast fillet with a mixture of Indian spices and cooked it like Chinese style stir fry!
It’s different, tasty, easy, quick and makes a wonderful dish.
A must try chicken with vegies
500 gm chicken fillet cubed or sliced
handful of beans sliced
1 med red onion sliced
1 red capsicum sliced
1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
1 tbs ginger sliced
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp ground chilli
1 tsp ginger/garlic paste each little grated rind of lime (opt) salt to taste
olive oil to cook
1 cup stock
SAUCE
2-3 tbsp sweet chilli sauce
1 tsp ground all spice
1 tbsp lime juice
pinch nutmeg
1 tsp arrowroot or cornflour
Salt to taste
Olive oil to cook
Tasty
Marinate chicken with ginger,garlic. coriander,chilli and lime rind for about 30 mins.
and pour over the chicken and mix well. Add the veges to the chicken and toss well. Pour cornflour mixed with 2 tbsp water and cook until thickens.
GARNISH: chopped spring onion or coriander leaves
Heat oil in wok or pan. Add sliced ginger, onion and capsicum and stir fry about 2-3 mins. Set aside. In the same wok heat a little oil and stir fry the chicken pieces till tender. Whisk all the ingredients for the sauce in a bowl recipe from the private collection
SERVE: Hot with basmati rice or brown rice.
BY MANJIT SETHI
Chef Vikas Khanna's New York restaurant 'Bungalow' recently received a three-star rating from The New York Times. It is after "almost 25 years," that an Indian restaurant has achieved such a rating.
The Michelin-starred chef, who represents Indian cuisine on the global stage, shared a video on social media to thank everyone for their support.
In the video posted on Instagram, Khanna said, "We just received the New York Times review for Bungalow, and we received three stars. After almost 25 years, an Indian restaurant received three stars. Thank you everyone for believing in us and supporting us and standing in the line in the rains and constantly trying to book the restaurant, bringing your parents, your grandparents, or making Bungalow a sacred space for our culture and for our cuisine. I owe it all to you. Thank you. “Bungalow, which draws inspiration from social clubs that once served British-influenced cuisine, offers a menu that is unmistakably Indian, featuring dishes from Kashmir in the north to Kerala in the south.
Vikas Khanna's culinary journey is truly inspiring. From his humble beginnings in Amritsar to becoming a chef who introduced Indian cuisine to the United States and cooked for people like Barack Obama, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and the Dalai Lama, Khanna has reached several milestones in the world of cooking.
Mesha (Aries)
An excellent month, during which you would be able to function above normal and take your career to new heights. This month you will be endowed with a quality of leadership that would unable you to get the optimum benefit of from the service of your juniors and subordinates. The work-load would not be very heavy, and yet most of your expected gains would be realized.
Best days: 3, 12, 30
Lucky Colour: Red, Orange, Cream
Simha (Leo)
This month you can look forward to being endowed with a frame of mind conducive to success, and also opportunities of the profitable kind. In fact, most of you would carry out your pursuits with a touch of boldness. This is the kind of attitude that ensures success. Make full use of it. Further.
Vrishabh (Taurus)
A month during which the favourable turn of fortune is beneficial for your health. Even a marked susceptibility to having one’s digestive organs disorder would be relieved during this period as will also chronic disorders of the stomach. This of course does not mean that all caution is abandoned. Normal precautionary measures should be maintained.
Best days: 9, 18, 27
Lucky Colour: Green, Blue
Kanya (Virgo)
This month your financial prospects look quite good, with several opportunities for quick gains clearly indicated. There is a distinct possibility that you would gain considerably as a result of a favour or a service done to you by some old gentleman.
By D. Narayan (Tantracharya) M: 0425
Mithuna (Gemini)
Month is quite favourable in so far as your financial prospects are concerned. Writers, poets, social scientists, and others of their ilk can look forward to an extremely productive spell both financially as well as in terms of creative output. Many of you would also benefit a great deal through your association with some wise, learned people of spiritual stature.
Best days: 2, 7, 9
Lucky Colour: Red, White, Yellow
Tula (Libra)
The augury from the stars, is quite favourable in so far as your financial prospects are concerned. Most of you would have a way of handling your juniors or workers in a manner that will enable you to derive the optimum benefit from their services. This could be an important gain from which you would profit a great deal.
Best days: 5,3
Lucky Colour: White & Orange
Dhanu (Sagittarius)
Indications are that business or job related travel would not bring in the expected gains. Travel for pleasure, like a family holiday is also indicated. Here again, this may not be too pleasant. Students aspiring to go abroad for higher studies or training would face a lot of difficulties in their attempts. South is the most favourable direction.
Best days: 9, 18
Lucky Colour: Red, Blue
Best days: 3, 12
Lucky Colour: Orange, Green
Makara (Capricorn)
This month a favourable set of circumstances would promote your good health leaving you no cause for any serious worry. Any predisposition to chronic colds and discharge of excess of mucous, etc would be significantly relieved. Those with piles can also look forward to a period of relief, and even cure, if treatment is taken up in right earnest.
Best days: 1, 3, 4
Lucky Colour: White, Green, Blue
Best days: 9, 18
Lucky Colour: Red, Blue
Kumbha (Aquarius)
The combination of stars facing you this month is anything but favourable for your financial prospects. Speculation is almost certainly going to result in losses for some of you. It would, therefore, be a good idea to stay away from gambling of any variety. There are also grounds, to predict that you would tend to be quarrelsome with your superiors to such an extent that your relations with them nose-dive, resulting in serious losses for you.
Lucky Colour: White, Green, Blue Lucky Numbers - 5, 3, 6
660 220
Karkat (Cancer)
This month your family affairs are unlikely to have smooth sailing since the stars are not favourably inclined. The family atmosphere would not be too congenial and discord would be openly evident. In such a situation, children would also tend to be irritable. They would also not perform well in their studies and other extra- curricular activities.
Best days: 9, 18
Lucky Colour: Red, Blue
Vrishchik (Scorpio)
A month during which gains from travel may be difficult to come by because of the adverse stellar influences, you are likely to face. This month you would travel within the country and almost entirely by train or by road. Further, it is extremely unlikely that you would venture out, too far from home. Business or job related travel would simply fail to generate the expected dividends.
Best days: 1, 3, 4
Lucky Colour: Red, Orange
Meen (Pisces)
A fruitful month in so far as your professional prospects are concerned. Practitioners of the fine arts and others of their ilke would have an extremely satisfying time. In fact, some of you may well go on to make a mark for yourselves with your contributions. There are indications that you would tend to work quite hard and go for your objectives efficiently. And in this you shall succeed.
Best days: 2, 7, 9
Lucky Colour: Red, Yellow, White
In a Bangkok Temple: IT IS FORBIDDEN TO ENTER A WOMAN, EVEN A FOREIGNER, IF DRESSED AS A MAN.
Cocktail Lounge, Norway: LADIES ARE REQUESTED NOT TO HAVE CHILDREN IN THE BAR.
Doctor's Office, Rome: SPECIALIST IN WOMEN AND OTHER DISEASES.
Dry Cleaners, Bangkok: DROP YOUR TROUSERS HERE FOR THE BEST RESULTS.
A Nairobi Restaurant: CUSTOMERS WHO FIND OUR WAITRESSES RUDE, OUGHT TO SEE THE MANAGER.
On the main road to Mombasa, leaving Nairobi: TAKE NOTICE: WHEN THIS SIGN IS UNDER WATER, THIS ROAD IS IMPASSABLE.
On a poster at Kencom: ARE YOU AN ADULT THAT CANNOT READ? IF SO, WE CAN HELP.
In a City restaurant: OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK AND WEEKENDS.
In a Cemetery: PERSONS ARE PROHIBITED FROM PICKING FLOWERS, FROM ANY BUT THEIR OWN GRAVES.
Tokyo hotel's rules and regulations: GUESTS ARE REQUESTED NOT TO SMOKE, OR DO OTHER DISGUSTING BEHAVIOURS, IN BED.
On the menu of a Swiss Restaurant: OUR WINES LEAVE YOU NOTHING TO HOPE FOR.
In a Tokyo Bar: SPECIAL COCKTAILS FOR THE LADIES WITH NUTS.
Hotel, Japan: YOU ARE INVITED TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE CHAMBERMAID.
In the lobby of a Moscow Hotel, across from a Russian Orthodox Monastery: YOU ARE WELCOME TO VISIT THE CEMETERY, WHERE FAMOUS RUSSIAN AND SOVIET COMPOSERS, ARTISTS AND WRITERS ARE BURIED DAILY, EXCEPT THURSDAY.
A sign posted in Germany's Black Forest: IT IS STRICTLY FORBIDDEN ON OUR BLACK FOREST CAMPING SITE, THAT PEOPLE OF DIFFERENT SEX, FOR INSTANCE, MEN AND WOMEN, LIVE TOGETHER IN ONE TENT, UNLESS THEY ARE MARRIED WITH EACH OTHER FOR THIS PURPOSE.
Hotel, Zurich: BECAUSE OF THE IMPROPRIETY OF ENTERTAINING GUESTS OF THE OPPOSITE SEX IN THE BEDROOM, IT IS SUGGESTED THAT THE LOBBY BE USED FOR THIS PURPOSE.
Advertisement for donkey rides, Thailand: WOULD YOU LIKE TO RIDE ON YOUR OWN ASS?
Airline ticket office, Copenhagen: WE TAKE YOUR BAGS AND SEND THEM IN ALL DIRECTIONS.
A Laundry in Rome: LADIES, LEAVE YOUR CLOTHES HERE AND THEN SPEND THE AFTERNOON HAVING A GOOD TIME.
