Gday India June 2021 Issue

JUN 2021

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

VOL 15 ISSUE 170

11-13 June 2021

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AUSTRALIAN INDIAN PERSPECTIVE

THE CHARITY RUNNER

Australian ultramarathon runner Samantha Gash partners with World Vision to raise funds for Covid-stricken India

HIGH HEELS AND THE LAW FLAVOUR FORMULATION

Molina Asthana: A formidable leader and role model digging her heels with law to keep the community open for any dialogues

MasterChef contestant and pharmacist Depinder compounding spices and blending her own style with food

STRAIGHT FROM THE HEART

A heart felt interview with Mitu Bhowmick Lange to understand what it is being a woman

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NEWS LOCAL

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

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elbourne, Jun 2: We now have 60 local cases and more than 350 exposure sites. And a variant of the virus that is quicker and more contagious than we’ve seen before. To date, the approach has been to track the spread through friends, family and workmates. People spending time together for minutes and hours – not seconds. What we’re seeing now is something else – something even more serious. At least one in ten current cases have caught this virus from a stranger. People brushing against each other in a small shop. Getting a take-away coffee from the same cafe. Being in the same place, at the same time for mere moments. Just walking past someone you’ve never met can mean the virus is jumping to a whole new network. And when you don’t know someone – you don’t know their name or where they live – you’re looking for one person in 6.6 million. The best way to stop the virus is vaccination. But as we know, with only two per cent of the population fully vaccinated – if we let this thing run then cases will explode. If that happens, it's our most vulnerable – our parents and grandparents, Victorians with underlying conditions or compromised immunity – who will pay the price. It’s why, on the advice of Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton, the current restrictions will remain in place in Melbourne for a further seven days, with some small changes. This will give us a full 14 days – one

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

Statement From the Acting Premier James Merlino

full cycle of the virus – to make sure we understand how and where this mutation is moving. For Melbourne, there will still be only five reasons to leave home: shopping for food and supplies, authorised work and study, care and caregiving, exercise, and getting vaccinated. People will be able to travel further for exercise and shopping, with an expanded 10km radius. Kids in Year 11 and 12 will return to faceto-face learning. That includes students in other year levels who are doing a Unit 3/4 VCE or VCAL subject, while that class is being taught. And a number of outdoor jobs will be added to the authorised list – things like landscaping, painting, installing solar panels, or letterboxing. Other restrictions – including mask wearing – will stay the same. We know this will have a big impact on businesses, which is why we’ll be extending our financial support, with an additional $209 million in grants. At the end of another seven days, we want to be in a position to begin carefully easing restrictions for Melbourne. But I need to be upfront that even if all goes well, we won’t be able to have people from Melbourne travelling to regional Victoria over the Queen’s Birthday long weekend. The risk of exporting the virus is just too high. With no community transmission in regional Victoria this week, regional restrictions are proposed to begin easing from 11:59pm tomorrow night. We'll use the next 24 hours to continue tracing and testing and confirm that this change can go ahead. We need to be clear though, this strain of the virus means we can’t just snap back to where we were a week ago. We have to make sure it’s safe and that means moving a bit slower. I’ll say from the outset, this won’t be what everyone hoped for – but these are the responsible and proportional adjustments we can make now, while continuing to keep our regional communities safe. That means lifting the travel restrictions and the ‘five reasons’. All year levels and all students will return to face-to-face schooling. Public gatherings – catching up at a public place like the park or the beach – will be increased to ten people. Restaurants and cafés can reopen to a maximum of 50. Retail, beauty and personal care, entertainment venues and community facilities will also open in line with density limits. Religious ceremonies and funerals will be capped at 50, weddings at ten. We’ll also move to work or study from home if you can. Offices will be capped at 50 per cent. Some things won’t change. Visitors to

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the home are still not okay. And we still need masks to be worn inside. Finally, regional Victorians will be able to travel in regional Victoria. Melburnians will not. There’ll be plenty more detail available online about what rules apply for which parts of Victoria. But I need to be really clear, stopping the spread – and getting our whole state back to normal – means knowing the restrictions that apply to you, and sticking to them. We’ve seen examples of people who left Melbourne, broke the rules and took the virus with them. We do not want that to happen again. To that end, most businesses that are open in regional Victoria but closed in Melbourne – restaurants or beauty for example – must check the IDs of everyone they serve. We know it’s an extra ask on staff and customers – but ultimately, it’s about keeping your community safe. We’ll also expand our QR requirements to make it mandatory in retail settings like supermarkets and shops. The 15-minute threshold will also be removed so anyone entering a shop or a cafe will need to checkin. No one wants to be here. And I know this news is tough for every Victorian, every family and every business in this state. But the Chief Health Officer has no choice but to give this advice. And the Government has no choice but to follow it. If we don't, this thing will get away from us and people will die. No one wants to repeat last winter. To stop that from happening, we need every Victorian to follow the rules, to get tested and to get vaccinated when it's your turn. We can do this, but we need to do it together.

NEWS VICTORIA

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

Melbourne extends lockdown as Covid-19 cases escalate

MELBOURNE, Jun 2: Health authorities Victoria extended a lockdown in the capital of Melbourne as the latest outbreak of Covid-19 active cases rose to 60 by Wednesday. The week-long lockdown, which was due to end on Thursday, will continue for at least another seven days in Melbourne, with restrictions being eased in regional Victoria. It means the five reasons to leave home will remain in place in Melbourne, which includes shopping for food and supplies, authorised work and study, care and caregiving, exercise and getting vaccinated or tested. However, the travel radius will expand to a 10-km radius from midnight Thursday. Kids in year 11 and 12 will return to faceto-face learning. A number of outdoor jobs will be permitted during the extended lockdown such as landscaping, painting, installing solar panels, or letterboxing.

In announcing the changes, Acting Premier James Merlino said the extended lockdown will give the authorities a full 14 days, one full cycle of the virus, to make sure they understand how and where this mutation is moving. "If we let this thing run its course, it will explode, we've got to run this to ground because if we don't, people will die." The health authorities were also very concerned since they thought the current outbreak is related to a more infectious variant strain detected in India, the Kappa variant, which could make people become infected after brief encounters with strangers. Previously, infections were anticipated to occur among workplaces, big social events or in the home where there was prolonged exposure, while the highly virulent Kappa strain is occurring in some unusual settings. Victorian Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton told national broadcaster ABC that at least one in 10 current cases had caught it through those casual contact settings. "We didn't routinely see it in 2020, but we have to bear in mind that all the variants of concern now are really a step up to some degree. This Kappa variant is more infectious than anything we saw in the beginning and middle of 2020," he said. Victoria's Covid-19 testing commander

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Jeroen Weimar said there were four to five instances in the state's latest outbreak of people contracting the virus from "fleeting contact." "They do not know each other's names and that is very different from what we have seen before," Weimar said, adding that infections could arise from people "brushing past each other." Among the new cases is a Melbourne resident who went on a camping trip in the neighbouring state of New South Wales (NSW) last month, which made NSW Health on alert. NSW health department is encouraging anyone who lives in the regions or has visited them which were visited by the case since May 22 to get tested and to isolate even if they have the mildest of symptoms. The accelerating crisis means the number of exposure sites, where at least one infected people has visited, is ballooning daily. As of Wednesday, there were more than 350 sites in Victoria, mainly centred around Melbourne, and five in NSW. Since the outbreak, Victorians have been flocking to vaccination hubs with 20,585 doses being administered on Tuesday, bringing the state's overall total to 513,375. The Victorian government has also launched a five-day campaign, so workers in private aged-care facilities and residential disability facilities get priority at 10 walk-in vaccination hubs from Wednesday to Sunday. There has also been a sharp increase in the number of Victorians being tested for the virus, including 51,033 on Tuesday. The lockdown is the fourth in Victoria since the first coronavirus case was detected in Australia in January 2020. The state has since recorded 20,614 cases and 820 related deaths.

(AGENCIES)

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NEWS VICTORIA

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

Support Extended For Victorian Businesses

MELBOURNE, Jun 2: The Victorian Government will double existing support payments for businesses affected by the extension of the circuit-breaker restrictions. Victorians are joining together and keeping their doors closed to safeguard the community and the economy in the long run – we appreciate the efforts and sacrifices being made across the state and recognise the real cost of this action for businesses.

Building on the $250.7 million support package announced last Sunday, a new allocation of up to $209.3 million will flow to small and medium-sized businesses, taking the total support package to $460 million. Up to 90,000 businesses will benefit from the original support. About 70,000 of these businesses located in metropolitan Melbourne will be affected by the extension of restrictions beyond Thursday 3 June and will be eligible for the new support. Business Costs Assistance Program grants of $2,500 for eligible businesses directly affected by the industry restrictions, including restaurants and cafes, event suppliers, accommodation providers and non-essential retailers, will be doubled to $5,000 for eligible businesses in metropolitan Melbourne. Regional businesses that are unable to open due to ongoing restrictions, such as nightclubs and amusement parks, will also be eligible for the extension payment. Metropolitan businesses that will have restrictions eased from Friday will not be eligible for the extension payment. Licensed Hospitality Venue Fund grants of $3,500 for businesses holding an eligible

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liquor licence and food certificate will be doubled to $7,000 for eligible businesses in metropolitan Melbourne. Applications are scheduled to open on Thursday 3 June 2021 – including for regional businesses applying under the original package – and will be open until 11.59pm on Thursday, 24 June 2021. Businesses will only need to fill one application. The extra allocations take the support for the Business Costs Assistance Program to $370 million and the Licensed Hospitality Venue Fund to $70 million. Details on the $20 million Events Support Package for operators in the events industry who have incurred losses due to restrictions will be provided shortly. The Victorian Government has renewed its request for JobKeeper support for workers from the Commonwealth Government. Businesses can register their interest in the Business Costs Assistance Program at: business.vic.gov.au and will be notified when applications open. Businesses eligible for the Licensed Hospitality Venue Fund payment will be emailed directly by Business Victoria with a link to their grant application form. (MEDIA RELEASE)

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New Defence Centre Lands More Jobs in Victoria

MELBOURNE, Jun1: Victoria’s defence industry jobs will grow with the establishment of a new state-of-the-art centre in Fishermans Bend, with support from the Andrews Labor Government. Minister for Industry Support and Recovery Martin Pakula today announced that SYPAQ Systems would expand its Victorian operations in a new facility and establish a Defence Autonomy Centre of Excellence, creating 280 high-value new jobs in the state over five years. The SYPAQ Centre of Excellence will develop innovative technologies and intellectual property related to autonomous systems and cyber security – spearheading Victoria’s competitive advantage within the defence sector and generating expenditure of $45 million annually when fully realised. SYPAQ is a leading engineering company specialising in defence, national security and information technology that has become

a leading industry participant since its establishment in Melbourne almost 30 years ago. Its mini drone has a diagonal span of 18cm, weighs 280 grams and has video and radio capacity that can be used for purposes including natural disaster response and monitoring of event crowds. SYPAQ Systems joins global firms including Boeing, Leonardo and Siemens in calling Fishermans Bend home. Victoria’s defence sector contributes up to $8.4 billion to the state’s economy each year, employing around 24,000 people in 6,300 businesses that manufacture equipment and provide services for defence activities. Victoria continues to attract investment from major defence companies, building on the state’s reputation as a prime location for supply chain opportunities. Moog Australia has launched a design and manufacturing facility in Heatherton that

will boost production of its defence systems in Australia and the Asia-Pacific, French engineering company Segula Technologies is setting up its Asia Pacific headquarters in South Melbourne and Hanwha Defense Australia has signed a MoU with the Government and intends to establish its manufacturing operations in the Geelong corridor. Fishermans Bend is Australia's largest urban renewal project, covering 480 hectares in the heart of Melbourne and set to be home to 80,000 people and 80,000 jobs by 2050. The Labor Government invested $179.4 million in the Victorian Budget 2021/22 to support stage one of the Fishermans Bend Innovation Precinct development at the 32-hectare former General Motors Holden site – with remediation and new roads and services to create an investment-ready precinct in three years. (MEDIA RELEASE)

Fast Tracking Victoria’s mRNA Manufacturing Capability

MELBOURNE, May 27: Victoria’s future supply of coronavirus vaccines will be fasttracked, with a new body charged with building the state’s mRNA manufacturing capability. mRNA Victoria will lead mRNA manufacturing in the state and deliver on the Andrews Labor Government’s $50 million investment in securing local supply. The new body will be led by Michael Kapel, who has been appointed the inaugural CEO and will oversee the establishment of commercial-scale mRNA manufacturing capability in Victoria within the next 12 months. Mr Kapel is the former Commissioner to the Americas for the Government of Victoria, where he oversaw a network of trade and investment offices across the United States, Canada and

South America. mRNA Victoria will leverage the state’s significant scientific expertise and partner with universities, research institutes and industry across the globe to accelerate onshore mRNA manufacturing. The dedicated organisation will be led by Mr Kapel and supported by a science advisory group of industry and technical experts. Victoria’s Chief Scientist Amanda Caples will convene the advisory group, with additional appointments expected in the coming weeks. The group will provide advice to the Government on crucial steps to support the project. The creation of the new body solidifies the Government’s commitment to driving innovation

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and research, building on the establishment of the $2 billion Breakthrough Victoria Fund, the $60 million Victorian Startup Capital Fund and the $25 million Venture Debt Fund. mRNA has not only created a new frontier for vaccine development but become a promising new weapon in the fight against cancer and other diseases. Developing mRNA capability in Victoria will provide vaccine security, support local manufacturing and create a more robust defence against future pandemics. The Labor Government will continue to work collaboratively with the Federal Government given its recently announced investment in end-to-end mRNA manufacturing in Australia. (MEDIA RELEASE)

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NEWS AUSTRALIA

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

Extending Covid-19 Vaccine Access for our Region

CANBERRA, Jun 3: The Morrison Government will contribute an additional $50 million to the COVAX Advance Market Commitment (COVAX AMC) to ensure more people in our region and across the world have access to safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines. This additional contribution will help COVAX deliver on its objective of vaccinating 30% of populations of AMC countries, from an original goal to reach 20% of their populations. Australia has now committed a total of $130 million to COVAX AMC. Australia’s support for COVAX complements our $623 million Regional

Vaccine Access and Health Security Initiative – which is assisting our Pacific and Southeast Asian neighbours to access and administer safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines. This includes $100 million for our Quad partnership with Japan, the US and India to deliver a billion doses to Southeast Asia by the end of 2022. Our neighbours in the Pacific and Southeast Asia have now received more than 13 million doses from COVAX, with more deliveries planned. These vaccines are being prioritised for high-risk individuals, health workers, frontline personnel and vulnerable groups.

Australia’s contribution will assist the COVAX AMC to deliver more than 1.8 billion doses worldwide, reaching at least 114 million people in Southeast Asia and the Pacific. (MEDIA RELEASE)

Australia pledges assistance for MEDIA RELEASE strategic investment, education Energy Safe Victoria promotion in Sri Lanka

– Be Sure

COLOMBO, Jun 1: Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa said that Australia has pledged assistance for strategic investments and promotion in the education sector in the island nation. This comes after Australian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka David Holly met President Gotabhaya Rajapaksa at the Presidential Secretariat. "Further the Australian High Commissioner pledged assistance for strategic investments & education sector promotion in Sri Lanka. Attention was drawn on the potential of positioning Sri Lanka as a preferred destination for higher education in the South Asian region," Gotabaya Rajapaksa wrote in a tweet. Talking about the damage caused by the fire that erupted in the vessel MV X-Press Pearl in the Sri Lankan water, President Rajapaksa said he was seeking

technical assistance from the Australian government to mitigate the environmental damage caused by ship. "Assistance to assess & mitigate the environmental damage caused by recent vessel accidents in Sri Lankan waters & a future organic fertilizer driven agriculture program was discussed in today's highly productive meeting with the Australian High Commissioner to #lka David Holly," he tweeted. The distressed vessel MV X-Press Pearl was carrying 1,486 containers with nitric acid and other hazardous IMDG code chemicals. The extreme fire, damage to containers and prevailing inclement weather caused the vessel to tilt to starboard resulting in the falling of containers overboard. (ANI)

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Over the past three years, Energy Safe Victoria’s (ESV) Be Sure campaign has prompted more Victorians to have their heaters checked by a qualified gasfitter at least once every two years, however there are still some who are yet to act on this message. ESV also warns people to ensure some ventilation in the room when the heater is on, and not to operate extraction fans, such as a bathroom fan or a kitchen rangehood at the same time as the heater. ESV Commissioner and Chairperson Marnie Williams said carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms were often similar to those experienced by flu sufferers. “We are urging Victorians to ensure their families are protected this winter with tens of thousands of open flued gas heaters still being used across the state,” Ms Williams said. “We want people to be warm in their homes but those with open flued gas heaters need to ensure their units are serviced by Type A, licensed plumbers at least every two years.” Victorian Multicultural Commission spokesperson Vivienne Nguyen said carbon monoxide poisoning from old or faulty gas heaters presented a real danger to families this winter. “Having your heaters checked by a qualified gasfitter is an easy step to ensure you and your loved ones are safe,” Ms Nguyen said. Victoria’s Deputy Chief Health Officer Dr Angie Bone said that while not everyone suffering these symptoms had an issue with a heater, it was essential that carbon monoxide poisoning was not overlooked. Be Sure was launched in 2019 after Greensborough woman Sonia Sofianopoulos died from carbon monoxide poisoning in her home. Details: esv.vic.gov.au/campaigns/carbonmonoxide or call 136 186.

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Temporary Government Assistance for Workers CANBERRA, Jun 3: Australians who have had their hours of work and income significantly affected due to state lockdowns, will be eligible for a temporary COVID Disaster Payment. The rapid support will be paid weekly to those workers who reside or work in a Commonwealth declared hotspot and are therefore unable to attend work and earn an income as a result of state-imposed health restrictions, which last for greater than one week. Eligible recipients will receive up to $500 per week for losing 20 hours or more of work,

and $325 per week for losing under 20 hours. They must not have liquid assets of more than $10,000. The payment will be made in respect of the second and any subsequent weeks of restrictions. This support will be available for Australian citizens and permanent residents and eligible working visa holders. Individuals who are already receiving income support payments, business support payments, or the Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment will not be eligible for this new payment. To qualify, people will need to have exhausted any leave entitlements

Qantas plans incentives for vaccinated travellers CANBERRA, May 31: Australian flag carrier, Qantas announced that it plans to reward travellers with discounts and other incentives if they were vaccinated against Covid-19. Among other things, flight vouchers and bonus points for Australian frequent flyers are planned, airline chief Alan Joyce said. Special prizes are also to be raffled off, dpa news agency quoted Joyce as saying. "We are looking at giving 1,000 points flight vouchers, credits and we are going to offer 10 mega prizes, at least one for each state and territory, where a family of four get unlimited travel on the Qantas and Jetstar network, anywhere in the network for a year," he said. He said the airline wanted the programme to encourage more Australians to get vaccinated.

Joyce invited other companies to follow Qantas' example. So far, only about 2 per cent of the 25 million Australians are fully vaccinated. At the same time, Joyce stressed that he was hopeful that some international services to and from Australia could be resumed by the end of the year. He said Qantas was working with the Australian government and was already sprucing up aircraft and training crews. The country's international borders have been closed since March 2020 in the wake of the pandemic, with exceptions only for residents and Australian citizens. So far, only regular air traffic with New Zealand has resumed. Both countries have so far been very successful in the fight against the coronavirus. (IANS)

(other than annual leave) or other special pandemic leave. The payment will complement existing payments including the Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment. By making these payments available, the Australian Government will ensure that Victorian workers get the financial support they need to stay at home during this outbreak. Access to Services Australia Disaster Assistance will be open to the public from Tuesday at www.servicesaustralia.gov.au or over the phone on 180 22 66.

MEDIA RELEASE

Courage to Care launches Upstander Program for Middle Years Students For close to 30 years, Courage to Care has proudly been delivering Upstander Programs to Secondary School students, educating about the dangers of racism, prejudice, discrimination and bystander behaviour. Hate speech and racial violence are on the rise across the world and, worryingly, it’s growing in Australia too. It’s on our very own doorstep. From white supremacist rallies to targeted racial attacks, the trend is impossible to deny. That’s why it feels so overwhelming. And at times, insurmountable. But the solution is clear – and it always has been: EDUCATION. By educating tomorrow’s generation about the dangers of racism, prejudice and intolerance, we can create a world of Upstanders. Everyday people who speak up, act with courage and create real change. And there’s no doubt that the

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younger the children, the more impactful this education becomes. That’s why Courage to Care is now launching Middle Years Upstander Program specifically designed for students in Years 5, 6 and 7. This new, age-appropriate Upstander Program is already receiving excellent feedback from educators. Which means the word is out there, with demand from schools across the state climbing by the day. Courage to Care hope to reach more than 8,000 Middle and Secondary Years students by the end of 2021. As an independent, universal charity, Courage to Care is seeking donations to support this important work. Find out more and donate at couragetocare.org.au/home. All donations will help us shape a more inclusive and understanding society. One that leaves intolerance and hate in the past.

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NEWS AUSTRALIA

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

China won't stand between Australia, New Zealand, say leaders

CANBERRA, May 31: Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said that Canberra and Wellington policies with regard to China won't divide the neighbouring countries as they stood 'resolutely together' on shared values and principles. As Morrison and New Zealand counterpart Jacinda Ardern used their first face-to-face meeting in 15 months to play down signs of division over China, Morrison said those who wished to split Canberra and Wellington over their policy towards Beijing would not succeed, reported South China Morning Post (SCMP). "We will continue to work together in that way, and I have no doubt there will be those who seek to undermine Australia and New Zealand's security by seeking to create points of difference, which are not there," he said. In probably a veiled reference to China, Morrison said that "those far from here" and "many others" sought to divide the partners and allies. On the other hand, Ardern said that she did not "detect any difference" between the sides on the "importance of maintaining a very strong and principled perspective on issues around trade, on issues around human rights", as she welcomed her Australian counterpart in Queenstown. "And you'll see that Australia and New Zealand have broadly been positioned in exactly the same place on these issues, consistently... So, I really push back on any suggestion we are not taking a strong stance on these incredibly important issues," she said. In a joint statement released after their talks, the leaders expressed concern about deteriorating freedoms in Hong Kong, the treatment of ethnic minority Uyghurs in Xinjiang, and the "militarisation of disputed features and an intensification of destabilising activities" in the South China Sea, SCMP reported.

The joint statement also raised concern about "harmful economic coercion", an apparent reference to Beijing's campaign of economic retaliation against Australia amid heightened tensions between the two countries. Ardern on Sunday said that New Zealand would participate in a World Trade Organization (WTO) dispute settlement panel over Australia's barley trade row with China, which placed restrictions on billions of dollars of Australian exports. This comes after New Zealand Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta said last month that Wellington was "uncomfortable" about using the "Five Eyes" intelligence-sharing alliance - which also includes Britain, Canada and the United States - to publicly criticise Beijing, SCMP reported. During Monday's press conference, Morrison denied suggestions New Zealand had compromised on its values to maintain a positive trading relationship with China. "Australia and New Zealand are trading nations but neither of us would ever trade our sovereignty or trade our values. We have stood side by side to defend and protect these values not just on the beaches of Gallipoli, but in Afghanistan and so many other places around the world," he said. "The message I took from the press conference and the joint statement is that there is a lot more that unites Australia and

New Zealand than divides us," said David Capie, director of the Centre for Strategic Studies at the University of Victoria. James Laurenceson, director of the Australia-China Relations Institute at the University of Technology Sydney, said the divide between Canberra and Wellington had always been modest and largely based on diplomatic style. "Wellington has avoided the chestthumping regularly seen in Canberra and shown a greater diplomatic awareness of Beijing's sensitivity towards possibilities such as other countries aligning themselves with the US to attack China," Laurenceson said. Earlier this month, Ardern had said that differences between Wellington and Beijing's values and interests are "becoming harder to reconcile". In a speech at the China Business Summit in Auckland, the New Zealand Prime Minister said there were issues on which China and New Zealand "do not, cannot, and will not agree", but said those differences need not define their relationship. (ANI)

MEDIA RELEASE

MoneyGram and 7-Eleven offer flat fee for money transfers internationally

It’s now even easier and more affordable to send money with MoneyGram at 7-Eleven with the newly introduced $5 flat fee for money transfers. The $5 flat fee is applicale for each transaction up to AUD$3,000. With this new every day low fee when sending money to India, Pakistan and Bangladesh, every cent you send can go futher for your love ones overseas.

Sending money from 7-Eleven provides conveninence as you can transact from over 600+ stores nationally, 24/7. You can start the transaction at the MoneyGram touch screen kiosk found in 7-Eleven, or online at 7elevenmoneytransfer.com.au and then complete the transaction in-store. Your money will arrive to your recipient at key agent locations such as within 10 minutes. Or you can send directly to a bank account and be assured there are no hidden fees or charges for the receiver.

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It’s quick, easy and reliable.

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G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

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China says Australia, New Zealand made 'irresponsible remarks' on HK, Xinjiang

BEIJING, May 31: Beijing condemned the joint statement made by Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and his New Zealand counterpart Jacinda Ardern, on the issues pertaining to Hong Kong and Xinjiang. Speaking at a press briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said that leaders of two countries made "irresponsible remarks" on its internal affairs and made groundless accusations against China. "The leaders of Australia and New Zealand, with irresponsible remarks on China's internal affairs relating to Hong Kong and Xinjiang as well as the South China Sea issue, have made groundless accusations against China, grossly interfered in China's internal affairs," Wenbin said. He further said it is not justifiable for relevant countries to say and do wrong things on issues bearing on the sovereignty and security of a third country. This comes after Australian PM Morrison, in a joint presser with New Zealand counterpart Ardern, said their policies with regard to China won't divide the neighbouring countries as they stood 'resolutely together' on shared values and principles. As Morrison and Ardern used their first face-to-face meeting in 15 months to play down signs of division over China, the

Australian PM said those who wished to split Canberra and Wellington over their policy towards Beijing would not succeed, reported South China Morning Post (SCMP). "We will continue to work together in that way, and I have no doubt there will be those who seek to undermine Australia and New Zealand's security by seeking to create points of difference, which are not there," he added. In a joint declaration, the two leaders called on Beijing to respect their human rights and grant the United Nations and other independent observers unfettered access to Xinjiang. On the World Health Organisation's inquiry into the origins of the pandemic, both leaders told reporters they hoped the global health body's investigation would continue. "It has got nothing to do with global politics," Morrison said. "This has nothing to do with anything other than ensuring that the global pandemic, which has caused such havoc around the world, stealing lives and livelihoods, that we understand how this occurred so we can do everything we possibly can to ensure that it does not happen again." On Indo-Pacific, both Australia and New Zealand wanted a free and peaceful IndoPacific region and would work to ensure that goal was not threatened by rising tensions

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between the United States and China. "The world is being characterised by increased strategic competition between the US and China, that is a self-evident fact," he said. "I would say our shared view is that such strategic competition does not need to lead to an increased likelihood of conflict." Last year, China imposed a harsh national security law on Hong Kong following the anti-government protests. The protests were sparked by the now-withdrawn extradition bill with mainland China. Since then, the pro-China Hong Kong administration has launched a crackdown against pro-democracy advocates and has arrested more than 10,200 people in connection with the anti-government protests. Meanwhile, in Xinjiang, China has been accused of committing genocide against Uyghur Muslims and other religious minorities. China has been rebuked globally for cracking down on Uyghur Muslims by sending them to mass detention camps and sending members of the community to undergo some form of forcible re-education. Beijing, on the other hand, continues to deny that it is engaging in human rights abuses against the Uyghurs in Xinjiang. (ANI)

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NEWS INDIA

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

No clinical trials required in India for global Covid-19 vaccines

NEW DELHI, June 2: Globally available Covid 19 vaccines can now be launched in India without the requirement of post approval clinical trials and testing every batch of the vaccine. The Drugs Controller General of India in a notification has said that vaccines which have been approved for restricted use by US FDA, EMA, UK MHRA and PMDA Japan and under the WHO Emergency Use Listing (EUL) and where millions of individuals have been vaccinated, the requirement of conducting post approval clinical trials and the requirement of testing every batch of the vaccine by Central Drugs Laboratory (CDL), Kasauli can be exempted if the vaccine batch has been certified and released by National Control Laboratory of country of origin. However, scrutiny and review of their summary lot protocol and certificate of analysis of the batch shall be undertaken by CDL, Kasauli for batch release as per standard procedures and the requirement of assessment of the first 100 beneficiaries for first 7 days for safety outcomes before the vaccine rolled out for further immunisation

programme and other procedures for applications will remain the same. This nod is likely to apply first to Pfizer and Moderna vaccines. AstraZeneca's Covishield and Russia's Sputnik have already been approved. It is not clear whether the Chinese vaccines will come under this ambit or they

will apply in India. This is being done to augment the increased availability of imported vaccines for meeting the national requirements even though the domestic manufacturing is being lifted. (IANS)

Black fungus treatment: Delhi HC allows duty-free import of Amphotericin B

NEW DELHI, June 1: The Delhi High Court suggested the young patients should be prioritised in the distribution of Liposomal Amphotericin B drug, used for treating black fungus, "as they hold promise of future over the older ones who have lived their lives". A bench of Justices Vipin Sanghi and Jasmeet Singh said the administration of the drug has to be prioritised for younger population, which has better chances of survival and have a future over the older ones who have lived their lives. Observing it was passing the order with a heavy heart, the court added that if all cannot be treated, being an ideal situation, it is on the Central government, "to spell out its policy on priority of patients so that at least some lives can be saved, if not all.." The High Court also recommended that the government may consider making an exception in the policy, for elder people serving the nation in high positions and whose safety is necessary. It also asked the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) to come out with clear guidelines on the use of Liposomal Amphotericin-B, plain Amphotericin-B and Posaconazole, required in the treatment of black fungus. It noted that on account of non-availability of choice of drug i.e. Liposomal Amphotericin along with lack of clarity on administration of alternate drugs, a large number of fatalities

were taking place. The court also noted that younger generation which has lost so many lives due to the viral infection, should have been

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vaccinated first, but the jabs were prioritised for the elderly who have lived their lives. Justice Sanghi said that in the second wave, the younger generation was more affected and added that he does not understand the vaccine policy at all. The court emphasised that Central government should lay down the way forward and secure the future of the country: the youth. Citing the example of Italy, the bench said other countries have done it and they said sorry, for old people, we don't have beds. It stressed that the 80-year-olds are not going to take this country forward, as they have lived their lives, "however, ideally, we should be able to save everyone but if we have to choose, we have to save the younger people". However, the bench noted that the older generation provides emotional support to the Indian families, as they are closely bonded. "In times like these, difficult choices have to be made and should be made by the state," it said. The court was hearing a batch of petitions in connection with Covid-19 issues in the national capital, including shortage of medicine to treat black fungus patients.

(IANS)

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

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Paytm's diversified businesses bring massive revenue, leave behind its competitors

NEW DELHI, June 2: Fintech giant Paytm's parent company One97 Communications Limited is headed for a $3 billion initial public offering (IPO), the highest ever market debut in India, and while the market leader has established its presence across a plethora of businesses, its competitors are only now exploring an expansion into other services. The company, which has been a public limited company for long, is expected to list in the Indian stock market by November. The company has leveraged its multipayment architecture, and sees revenues that are multiple times higher than any other company in the digital payments and financial services category. In FY19, Paytm had registered Rs 2,618 crore in revenue while in FY20, the company logged Rs 3,406 crore in revenue. On the other hand, PhonePe registered Rs 246 crore revenue in FY19 and Rs 427 crore in FY20. Google Pay had Rs 3.3 crore in revenue in FY19 and Rs 3.8 crore in FY20. "Paytm's strong merchant focus -merchant and inventory integrations within the wallet, merchant point of sale, online payments and consumer cross-sell has led to a strong revenue base for Paytm versus its UPI-focussed competitors. Paytm earns 10X to 15X more revenue per active user, relative to its UPI-focussed competitor payment apps," said a recent report by global analysis firm Bernstein. In India, while most fintech companies have so far been targeting a particular business model, Paytm, led by Vijay Shekhar Sharma, has diversified its businesses from mobile, broadband, DTH recharges and P2P transfers and today offers a gamut of financial services. Within the payments space, the company

operates its wallet, banking, UPI, postpaid services and much more. But it's not just that. Paytm has gone on to add a plethora of businesses -- Paytm Payments Bank, Paytm Payments Gateway, Paytm Payout, Paytm Money for democratizing wealth creation, Paytm Insurance, Paytm Postpaid, Paytm Credit Cards along with utility bill payments, offline merchant payments, content and gaming service. "With its presence in a large number of allied financial services, it (Paytm) has been successful in becoming the largest player in terms of consolidated revenue. Also, an important distinction to be noticed is that most of the ancillary services of Paytm are offered through in-house establishments such as Paytm Money, Paytm bank, etc. This could place itself better in terms of margins in the coming times," said a recent report on the Indian fintech ecosystem by RedSeer. While it has established all of these businesses, its competitors are only now exploring an expansion into other services. Paytm, with a first-mover advantage, has already become a leader and is a brand name to reckon with. "Paytm with its

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long legacy has a strong presence in 'Bharat' i.e. tier 3 and below as well with total 20 Mn merchants onboard it maintains a huge lead in wallet payments especially," said the report by market research firm RedSeer. The company is also a large player in the UPI transactions in India. UPI transactions do not become a revenue generating feature for third-party apps. "...maintaining UPI market share takes marketing dollars on a treadmill without earning any revenue," said the Bernstein report. Instead, they go through a bank funnel, and that's where Paytm Payments Bank is already the highest beneficiary bank ahead of SBI, HDFC and ICICI Bank. The NPCI has also proposed a market cap in UPI transactions, where it has said that no player can have over 30 per cent market share by 2022. Players that don't abide by the market share rule will be penalised. However, for Paytm, UPI is just one of the services. Today, the company ends up managing the entire customer life cycle and not just a payment transfer alone. All of that contributes to several funnels for revenue growth for Paytm -- whether it's through users, online merchants or offline merchants. The company has also recorded over 1.4 billion transactions reported in March with over 20 million merchant partners accepting Paytm QR, Paytm IoT devices and App POS. With the lockdown and restrictions across the country, users continue to turn to Paytm for all their daily needs -- from mobile, broadband and DTH recharges, credit card payments, electricity bill payments, water bill, money transfers and much more.

(IANS)

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NEWS WORLD

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

'Low vaccination rates in some countries dangerous for everyone'

WASHINGTON, June 2: Vaccinating the world is the most effective way to boost global output in the near term, International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva said, warning that low vaccination rates in some countries is "dangerous" for everyone. "It is now increasingly clear to leaders everywhere and to ordinary people that we are not going to succeed in overcoming the economic crisis this pandemic triggered, unless we bring the pandemic to a durable end," Georgieva said at a press conference.

The IMF chief participated in the joint press conference together with the heads of the World Bank Group, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Trade Organization (WTO), with a focus on a new joint call on scaling up equitable access to Covid-19 vaccines. Georgieva noted that countries with more fiscal space and rapid vaccinations are coming out of the crisis faster, but those, especially with low vaccination rates are falling further behind, and "that is dangerous for everyone because it would hold the global recovery

back." According to IMF estimation, a faster vaccination rollout could inject the equivalent of $9 trillion into the global economy by 2025, due to a faster resumption of economic activity. "And it is important to recognize that 60 per cent of the benefits, this 60 per cent of this 9 trillion would go to emerging markets in developing countries, but 40 per cent will go to advanced economies," said the IMF chief. "So we mobilize everybody to step forward for the benefit of all," she added. Georgieva also noted that building on the work of the WHO, WTO, World Bank and many others, IMF staff have put forward a proposal a $50 billion-dollar plan - to end the pandemic. The proposal would vaccinate at least 40 per cent of the population in all countries by end of 2021, and at least 60 per cent by the first half of 2022, providing additional upfront grants to COVAX, the WHO-led international campaign for equitable distribution of COVID-19 vaccines around the world. The plan would also insure against downside risks such as new variants, and manage the interim period where vaccine supply is limited with widespread testing and tracing, therapeutic and public health measures, Georgieva said. (IANS)

China's newly announced 3-child policy receives unenthusiastic response

BEIJING, Jun 1: In the face of a looming demographic crisis, China eased its two-child policy to allow couples to have three children. However, this step has received a notable lack of enthusiasm on Chinese social media. According to CNN, reasons for not wanting a third child or any child were among the hottest topics on the Chinese microblogging site Weibo. The Chinese already suffer from a lack of affordable childcare, rising living costs and gruelling hours of work. One Weibo user writes: "It's mainly because I feel tired. How can I afford having a child when the pressure in life is so high?" An online survey to ask Weibo users if they wanted a third child. It attracted more than 300,000 responses within half an hour, out of which 90 per cent voted "absolutely not considering". The survey was later quietly removed. China's once-a-decade census, released this month, showed that 12 million babies were born in the last year, the lowest since 1961, during the Great Famine, reported South China Morning Post (SCMP). It also showed that the

population of the country has grown by merely 5.38 per cent over the last 10 years. China's birth rate has been on the decline since 2017, despite easing of the 'onechild policy' in order to avert an incoming demographic crisis. Despite the relaxation of the one-child policy in 2016, the number of live births per 1,000 people fell to a record low of 10.48 in 2019, down from 10.94 in 2018. This has sparked fears of an impending demographic crisis. Meanwhile, experts have said China's labor force will peak in the next few years before shrinking by about five per cent over the next decade, reported CNN. That could mean trouble for the big economic policy objectives set by President Xi Jinping. China's birth rate fell by almost 15 per cent year-on-year in 2020, and some people have indicated that the rising cost of living is a major deterrent to having larger families. The New York Times reports that the party's announcement is likely to revive longstanding complaints about the government's invasive control over women's bodies in China.

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For decades, China's family planning restrictions empowered the authorities to compel hundreds of millions of Chinese women to have abortions or undergo sterilisation operations in order to control the population. (ANI)

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

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Singapore labour shortage Russia sends another deepens amid entry ban on shipment of India, S Asian countries Sputnik V vaccine to India

SINGAPORE, Jun 2: After Singapore banned arrivals from India and other South Asian countries due to fears of an explosive Covid-19 outbreak, the country is now facing an increasing coronavirus-induced labour shortage - spraining its economic model. Foreign nationals comprise about a third of the total workforce in Singapore, where construction and shipbuilding sectors rely heavily on low-cost labour especially from India and Bangladesh, says Kentaro Iwamoto in the Nikkei Asia. Even before Singapore stopped entries from India and other South Asian nations, departures and tighter travel rules were already keeping foreign workers away from the country. According to Iwamoto, the crunch has led to delays of construction projects by as much as a year, resulting in a surge of 30 per cent in the price of labour and sparking worries over excessive workloads. "Some workers have even told us that they have been forced to work double shifts, each shift eight hours, for at least half the week since last year," Nikkei Asia quoted Desiree Leong, casework manager at the Humanitarian Organization for Migration Economics, a local rights group. The number of migrant workers in Singaporean building sites, shipyards and factories plunged by 16 per cent in 2020 to 311,000, according to government statistics. The total number of international workers also decreased by 14 per cent. Meanwhile, the bans on short-term travellers and long-term pass holders from South Asia, which remain in place even though India's second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic has eased. Although the government last week maintained its annual growth outlook for this

year at 4 per cent to 6 per cent, it warned the recovery's speed would be uneven across industries and flagged the manpower shortage as a drag on construction, reported Nikkei Asia. "Recent border restrictions on the entry of foreign workers from South Asia will exacerbate ongoing severe labor shortages at construction worksites and shipyards," the Ministry of Trade and Industry said. Singapore's construction sector shrank by 36 per cent in 2020, while COVID-19 clusters in crowded worker dormitories shut down work sites. Despite the situation stabilising, the industry's decline continued in the first quarter of 2021, with a 23 per cent year-onyear fall. Project delays in Singapore risk slower real estate sales, stalled facility openings and, potentially, weaker consumption. Thus, industry groups of the country are urging the government to reopen the border for South Asian workers. They argue housing, hospital and transit line projects will be "badly disrupted" if the entry ban continues. Apart from Singapore, Vietnam's plans to send 500,000 workers abroad in the five years through 2025 have been cast in fresh doubt, partly due to border restrictions in key destinations like Japan, Iwamoto writes. Regarding long hours of work, the Humanitarian Organization for Migration Economics says some migrants have been reported working 14 to 16 hours a day and six days a week. On May 17, nine construction-related industry organisations warned that the current workforce is "already working at maximum capacity, increasing the risks of workplace incidents."

(ANI)

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NEW DELHI, Jun 1: Continuing its support to India to fight the COVID-19 surge, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said that another shipment of Sputnik V vaccine has been sent to India as Russia is committed to help Indian friends in these difficult times. Russia's Sputnik V got approval from the Subject expert committee (SEC) for Emergency Use Authorisation (EUA), making it the third COVID-19 vaccine to get clearance in India. Earlier, in the day, the biggest import consignment of COVID-19 vaccines in India till date involving 56.6 tonnes of Russianmade Sputnik V vaccines received in Hyderabad. The vaccine consignment arrived from Russia on a specially chartered freighter RU9450 which landed in Hyderabad Airport in the early hours of Tuesday. Sputnik V has been imported to India by Dr Reddy's Laboratories and will be manufactured locally by the pharmaceutical major in the coming months. Lavrov's remarks come after the BRICS meeting. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar chaired the standalone meeting through video conferencing. It was convened by India as the current BRICS Chair. The meeting was attended by Brazil Minister of Foreign Affairs Carlos Alberto Franco Franca, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and South African Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor. (ANI)

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

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G’Day Mate

!

With humour and heart, quelling curiosity about periods

What are periods? And why is it such a big secret, 11-year-old Aditya really wants to know. Ever since Rhea didi began getting brown paper packages, there's been something that no one is telling him. Mama turns red, Pa chokes on his coffee and Dadi has steam coming out of her ears! While Naveen and Vinay, his classmates, add to the confusion and show him a napkin that soaks ink, Aditya is left wondering why does his sister not just talk to him? All of this is only making little Aditya even more curious... Seriously, what is the big deal? Told with a lot of humour and heart,

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this conversation starter, "What's the Big Secret" (Puffin), a full-colour illustrated book on periods, helps everyone, especially boys, understand the bodily process and quell their curiosity. It's a much-needed book that will help expel the stigma attached to the concept, "What's the Big Secret" by Sonali Shenoy, essentially illustrated by Annushka Hardikar, will help parents engage in difficult conversations about growing up with their children. Sonali Shenoy is a writer and a journalist. "The Dog Who Taught Me Math" was her first children's book. She is currently raising two money plants Oprah and Ellen. (AGENCIES)

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

GETTING MARRIED IN AUSTRALIA

Types of marriage celebrants You must be married by an authorised marriage celebrant to be legally married in Australia. There are four types of authorised marriage celebrants in Australia: 1. Commonwealth-registered marriage celebrants 2. Commonwealth-registered religious marriage celebrants 3. Ministers of religion who are from a recognised denomination 4. State and territory officers The department of Attorney General manage a database of all authorised marriage celebrants in Australia. AG’s department regulate Commonwealth-registered marriage celebrants. They generally perform civil ceremonies, which is a nonreligious marriage ceremony. You may search for a Commonwealthregistered marriage celebrant Commonwealth-registered religious marriage celebrants are also regulated by the AG’s department. These celebrants don’t have to perform ceremonies that do not align with their religious beliefs. But they must say they are a religious marriage celebrant when they advertise their services. Ministers of religion of a

recognised religious denomination are managed by the registry of births, deaths and marriages in their state or territory and their religious organisation. The minister must be part of a recognised religion in Australia. State and territory officers are regulated by the registry of births, deaths and marriages in their state or territory. They perform nonreligious marriage ceremonies (civil ceremonies). You can complain about a marriage celebrant if you are not satisfied with their services. If you have further questions, you may contact me.

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HURDLING AID FOR INDIA 22

FEATURE

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

Australian ultramarathon runner Samantha Gash partners with World Vision to raise funds for COVID-stricken India

This interview is all about attitude with a difference. Meet World Vision Goodwill Ambassador and professional endurance athlete Samantha Gash, who will lead a global relief run to raise life-saving funds for the people of India devastated by COVID-19. She’s not unfamiliar with this territory as running for a cause has been her sole purpose. Talking to us over the phone from the Dandenong Ranges of Melbourne she halted her 10km run to tell us about the Relief Run which will be held over the weekend of June 11,12, and 13. It will be a virtual run allowing participants all over the world to run (or walk) 5km, 10km or half a marathon at a location and time that suits them. Groups across schools, corporates and communities are encouraged to create an event and support

the cause. Asking the running star what it means to run for a cause? Samantha cannot put this in much simpler terms. For her running on a personal level is transformative connecting her with the present. It’s an opportunity to be reflective without criticism. India being very close to her heart she has visited India six times over the decade and her very good friend Ashwin Rajan (Head of Commercial Australia & APAC). Both educating each other on India to galvanize her following and her beasty fierce crazy spirit for adventure. Most recently she was there with her 6-month old her very good friend Nick Davidson connected her with Milind Soman speaking about the running community.

Samantha’s connection to India is personal. In 2016 she completed Run India; an incredible 3200 km run from the west to east of India to raise funds for World Vision education initiatives. During her three-month journey, she’s fallen in love with the beautiful landscape, visited some of the country’s most povertystricken corners, drank masala chai in terracotta cups with some fifty odd village men in silence and her curiosity of the matriarch community forged these lasting relationships with the families and children she met. That same year Samantha was also selected as a delegate for the 2016 Australia India Youth Dialogue which brought together young Australian and Indian leaders in a forum held in India to discuss various issues significant to the Australia-India relationship. A social entrepreneur and former Survivor contestant is the co-creator of Relief Run, which last year raised more than $1 million in support of Australian bushfire relief efforts. When the whole world got behind Australia, she thinks it’s now time for Australia to lend a helping hand to India. She quotes “When Australia was devastated by bushfires in 2020, the global community came to our aid. Now it’s time for us to pay it forward.” The scale of the tragedy in India is heartbreaking, but she’s confident the generosity of runners from around the world can make a difference. Samantha thinks every one of us has some connection to India and is devastated by the ever-increasing scale of loss. It is heart-wrenching to see the endless suffering of individuals and vulnerable communities that are now at even greater risk.

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G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

Samantha connecting with Ashwin once again now she wants the community to get behind this relief run for India. All funds raised will go towards the World Vision’s COVID-19 India crisis appeal, which responds to life-saving needs for equipment and supplies including beds, oxygen concentrators, food vouchers and tents for temporary COVID-19 care centres. It is also about the children who are now orphans and have been deeply impacted by this pandemic, shortage of food and clean drinking water has also become a major concern in the rural areas. With Australians supporting more than 23,000 children in India and their communities through sponsorship programs, World Vision Australian Chief Executive Officer, Daniel Wordsworth, said he has faith in the kindness of Aussies, and encouraged them to sign up for this year’s Relief Run. “We are very grateful for Samantha’s support, and her willingness to use her platform again and again to help others. I implore you to register for this run so we can help the people of India work towards an end to this grave humanitarian crisis.” With India reporting a record number of daily deaths this week, and authorities fearing the worst is still to come, the fundraiser cannot come soon enough, said Samantha. World Vision is working in some of India’s worst-hit areas and has significantly boosted its response due to urgent and escalating lifesaving needs. The COVID-19 death toll in India is now more than 300,000, yet experts fear the official number is a gross underestimate. Relief Run is partnering with life, health and wellbeing insurer AIA Australia to help stage the fundraiser in cities and towns across

the nation. After seeing the profound impact Samantha made with the bushfire Relief Run last year, AIA Australia and New Zealand Chief Executive and Managing Director, Damien Mu, said he was proud to be involved in this effort for India. “When Samantha brought the idea of the Relief Run to us, there was no question in my mind that AIA should be involved – this was simply about doing the right thing,” he said. “We have colleagues, friends and family directly impacted by the crisis in India, and I believe it is our responsibility to make a difference however we can.” AIA Australia has the support of all their AIA Vitality ambassadors across Australia and New Zealand to spread the event and take part in runs over the June 11 – 13 weekend. Including Bec Judd, Sylvia Jeffreys, Laura Henshaw, Steve Hooker, Anabelle Smith, Alisa Camplin and Marika Day, and New Zealand AIA Vitality Ambassadors Dame Valerie Adams and Ian Jones. AIA’s Global Ambassador, David Beckham,

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will also be encouraging people across Asia to participate. He said: “The situation across India has been heartbreaking to see. Whatever we can do to help in any way is really important and I’m proud to support Samantha and this great initiative to raise vital funds and awareness for the relief efforts across India,” Lastly, Samantha’s message to Australia and the Indian community here in Australia is direct and true that the pandemic is here to stay awhile and as global citizens who typically have enjoyed the privileges of travelling around the world there comes a responsibility or duty of care for other people. She finds it challenging where one community is facing tremendous hardships and the other community is tipping the iceberg and right now India needs our support. Working with World Vision, small things do count and money do go a long way with them. If one person in every household signs up with World Vision it

does add up. The aim is to raise a quarter of a million dollars, and so far, they have raised hundred and seventy thousand dollars. They have partnered with ANZ, and with every registration they are matching it. What can I say for star runner Samantha - “Just keep doing what you believe in and things will fall into place.’’ To find out how you can participate go to www. reliefrun.com.au or to donate to World Vision’s COVID-19 India crisis appeal go to www.worldvision. com.au/end-corona-for-India.

(By Nandita Chakraborty with inputs from the media release)

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FEATURE

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

High Heels

and the Law

Molina Asthana: formidable leader and valuable role model

H

appily married and devoted mother of one, Molina runs her commercial law business in Melbourne and admits to being driven and fuelled by passion. She regularly devotes her expertise and energy to community work, advocating and designing meaningful opportunities. Meet the creator of synergy in the world of law, bridging the gap between fairness, equality and justice. A stylish lady in her own right, Molina Asthana, is not just a pretty face with a superstar presence. She is a multi-award winning and industry recognised practising lawyer of almost twenty years. Mr Tonee Sethi, G’day India’s editorin-chief, recently had the pleasure of meeting Molina and discovering insight into how she has overcome numerous challenges and strived for leadership, yet remains humble and connected with the community. Proudly born and bred in India, Molina “grew up in a legal family.” She elaborates, “I come from a family of lawyers and judges and jurists. Initially, I was rebelling, and I said, ‘no, I’m not going to do law, I’ll do something else.’” However, while studying for a commerce degree Molina kept thinking about law, and upon completion, went straight into law studies. Molina’s passion for a legal profession gained her work immediately after graduating. She successfully juggled work at the Supreme Court of India and various law firms. In 2004, Molina moved to Melbourne. She married her Australian-born Indian businessman and banker, and things never looked better. Until the hard facts of gaining employment as a newly arrived migrant, albeit highly qualified and experienced, became a defining moment. Molina shares, “When I arrived here, they told me that I wouldn’t get a job and not in the industry I wanted.” She was

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advised, by recruiters, to change her profession to have the chance to gain employment in Australia and adds, “I was quite adamant. I’m a trained lawyer and a decent lawyer. I should have been given a chance to prove myself.” Bolstered by this new challenge, Molina underwent a Masters of Law at Melbourne University and was a star performer, consistently achieving high grades. Upon completion, Molina was ready to obtain employment and continue her love for making law work for everyone. However, after all her dedication to achieve a higher standard in the law industry, recruiters asked for more. Molina had to defend herself and convince people of her worthiness and capabilities. She discloses, “It was like a big struggle because recruiters weren’t putting my CV forward, and I was getting nowhere. I said to myself… ‘I’m going to approach this differently.’ I started meeting people directly. I took appointments with partners from big firms. I told them this is what I am going to bring to the table from having someone like myself, with a diverse background, join their firm.” Over the next few years, Molina’s tenacity, confidence and willpower to overcome where many people have given up sees her gain employment in top-tier law firms, such as Clayton Utz and MinterEllsion. She backed herself,

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

started at the bottom and worked her way up, surpassing everyone’s expectations. Being a cutthroat industry, Molina focused on her job and was determined to make a difference through her knowledge and love of law. Despite representing the minority in the legal profession, being female and a migrant, Molina thrived. She explains, “Working in big law firms: it wasn’t easy. You’d be the only person speaking with an accent. Even though there’d be some Asians working there, they were all born here. I had to find space for myself. It is a very competitive environment in the legal industry.” Not only did Molina have to navigate a boys’ club culture, but she also had to fit in with a male-dominant workplace. She elaborates, “I found that the legal profession itself and generally the workplaces were conservative and hierarchical. There’s no place for migrants. Even now, I’m the National Vice President of the Asian Australian Lawyers Association. The very reason this organisation started seven years ago was to create these opportunities for Asians. There’s hardly any judges of Asian background or partners in firms.” Busy and as dedicated as she was, Molina craved more from law. Through building selfconfidence and resilience, Molina relinquished the idea that she should be content with her current career level. Bravely reaching out to recruiters again, they take her on board for the first time, mainly because of her extensive work in top-tier law firms. In no time at all, she secures a position at the Victorian Government Solicitor’s Office. Molina worked for the next eleven years, and as a Principal Solicitor, her accomplishments were unmatched. Molina, a dynamic and smart woman, earns enough pulling power to assist, advocate and support clients, staff and colleagues. From this, her love of social law resurfaces. Juggling her daily commercial law duties, Molina wholeheartedly adds, “I started by sitting on boards to kick-start my community work. I also began working on social issues that were affecting migrants and a lot of issues of diversity, inclusion and access to justice.” Community work is something Molina

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knows intimately from growing up surrounded by the legal profession, but definitively because of her role model and grandfather, Justice Heri Swarup. She expresses, “My grandfather was renowned as a socialist judge; he was very well known. His judgements were part of my curriculum when I did law in India. I was influenced by his consistent and constant commitment to serving the communities and making sure people had a fair chance. There was fairness in everything he did.” From this inspiration, a couple of years ago, Molina ignited a non-for-profit start-up revolving around multicultural women in sport and “encourages women of diverse backgrounds to engage in sport as a means of empowerment and a sense of belonging.” Molina’s work is far from complete. This year alone sees her focusing on a myriad of things. One being her continued devotion to encourage those trying to attain leadership positions. She confides, “I also faced a lot of barriers. And that is what I wanted to change through my work: make sure others don’t

submissions at the law institute.” In addition, her role at LIV sees her concentrating on three major issues this year, such as sexual harassment, diversity in the legal profession and Covid- 19 related matters. Molina addresses, “I think all professions suffered last year, so it’s about rebuilding, reconnecting and supporting the community. So, whether I can do well through my legal work or my community work, I think it’s important we can provide that support. The issues are already in the community but have exacerbated because of covid. So through another organisation that I’m a member of called Australian Alliance, we’ve been working on racism issues. Racism directed towards Asians during covid and that has been a problem worldwide.” Since actively practising law, Molina has seen many changes within the industry. She recommends the direction law is taking, specifically, from litigation dominance to settling out of court, lawmaking and more focus on restorative justice in Australia. Molina reveals, “Law is what has changed. There’s mediation now. Some things have become more important regarding the settlement of disputes outside of the court system. It is considered a more positive outcome and a better outcome for everyone concerned.” From a mountain-load of trials and tribulations, Molina has forged a pathway not just for herself but for those who need it most. She assists by creating opportunities and supporting others by empowering migrants to raise their expectations about themselves. Molina has deservedly gained recognition for being a formidable leader and valuable role model. She reveals, “I keep believing I can do it and that I can make a difference. For me, that confidence comes from my background. I am always very proud of my heritage and background. I think the positives that I bring with that: I’ll be valuable.”

go through the same things I did. So learn networking, how to upscale yourself and work always speaks for itself – beat them with their own stick kind of thing. For me, it was the challenges that drove me to do better.” Honourably, Molina now is the Vice President of the Law Institute of Victoria (LIV). It is commendable to note that she is the first Indian in the 162 years of LIV’s existence to have this leadership position. However, Molina mentions that it is not all about what you do and have, but how you keep evolving and communicating to sustain influence and leadership in challenging circumstances. She promotes upskilling to stay relevant and connected; “It’s about continuing your work and changing tactics. In Australia, we have a compulsory element to our professional development. We have to do ten compulsory professional development units every year. I upskill even with human rights law. I don’t get that kind of work every day, but it’s the type of work that influences policy that goes into lawmaking. I engage in a lot of policy

By Agata Zema.

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FEATURE

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

STRAIGHT FROM THE HEART A heart felt interview with Mitu Bhowmick Lange to understand what is it being a woman…

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he Mother’s Day that has just gone by has given us a new perspective on the year we missed; and the year that we are living now. It pushes us to ponder how blessed we are to be celebrating women, motherhood and all that comes along with it. Recently, Mr Sethi (editor-in-chief of G’day India and the Indian Weekly) and I spoke to one such woman who not only wears many hats to her name, but she is also a woman we feel like celebrating today. A typical day for Mitu is waking up in the morning– with her 7-year-old daughter Parina singing loudly right in her ears. It feels like we know her already. So, let me take you inside the world of Mitu Bhowmick Lange: filmmaker, founder and director of Mind Blowing Films, and director of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne. Also, winner of Jill Robb Award from Film Victoria recognising her achievements, leadership and mentorship of

other women from the sector. Zooming in from her St Kilda home, a visibly upset Mitu had just gotten news of her friend in critical condition battling for his life infected with Covid in India. Very shaken by the suddenness of it all, she continues with the interview. The news lingers on the back of our minds, slowly bringing us to the present. Mr Sethi begins the interview by summarising the many roles Mitu plays in her life – but what is HER most important role? It was no brainer when she said, ‘Motherhood.’ Since having her daughter Parina, sometimes everything becomes all-consuming at the Bhowmick Lange household. Smirking slightly, she tells us that she has drawn a map of her brain to her team many a time when they come to her with petty issues. In a nutshell, 50 per cent is occupied by Parina; the remaining 50 per cent consists of health, business, her husband and her parents. Predominately, it’s motherhood that is the constant and essential

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role she plays. Giggling, Mitu tells us this is very ironic because she was never the maternal type; her focus has always been her career, so she has surprised herself by enjoying motherhood to all its glory. When Parina was born, she was diagnosed with Down syndrome. Mitu wishes she knew then what she knows now. The first three years were particularly very challenging, with several stays at the Royal Children’s Hospital. A place that Mitu says restored her faith in Humanity. The last seven years have been full of wonderful adventures that have made them grow. Like most parents with children with special needs, ‘she never takes anything for granted and celebrates all the wins’. The highs are higher and the lows are lower. Parina surprises and challenges them ever-day –’never a dull moment’. She laughs. The next part, like most Australian Indians, is being a daughter to her parents in India. Given the current climate, Mitu feels overwhelmed with worry and a nagging sadness with everything that’s happening in India. Then, of course, being a wife, marrying her best friend – Roy who supports her on all her crazy ideas and dreams. They met in Delhi, while in college, backstage at a TAG theatre production. Continuing with her infectious laugh, she says that she found it rather strange: A Hindi speaking New Zealander studying in Delhi. Like most Indian fathers, Mitu’s father was also very curious to know ‘what is a New Zealander doing studying in Delhi?’ After four years of courtship, they married amidst 45 relatives and friends from UK, New Zealand, several merry Bengali relatives and friends. After the wedding, they were back in Mumbai with Mitu continuing

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her exciting journey making shows for various channels before finally relocating to Melbourne. They have been married twentyfour years, and it has been a big adventure. She points out getting married at a young age gave them room to grow together. Then she has a role of a friend to a lot of people, both in Australia and in India. The Lange’s are known for their open house with friends and food flowing in filled with laughter, food and chatter. Then comes the businesswoman, who we all know. Mitu quotes her ex-boss, telling us, ‘Work– life balance doesn’t exist.’ In life, one has to coexist wearing multiple hats. Mitu juggles between hats, from the festival director to the distributor to the producer – but the most important hat that she joyfully wears is her mother’s hat. Talking to us about some of the challenges in the multiple roles she plays, Mitu tells us though these roles came with many ups and downs, life itself is a rollercoaster ride that we all have to navigate. Like all popular public events the festival receives its share of criticism, some of which Mitu admits has helped make the festival better and stronger. Taking it as positive feedback, she and her team go through the actual process of incorporating these suggestions. However, last year the criticism reached a strange new level. Extremely personal vicious attacks Mitu confirms that she has never spoken about this, nor she has ever engaged. However, when things started getting out of control, for the first time in the 11 years of the festival, they had to seek the help of the Australia Federal Police, who confirmed that the hate mails were coming from one IP in the US. They have also warned a few here to be careful. The company is also taking legal actions.

‘When one is being bullied one feels a level of humiliation, please speak up, the laws in this country and the community will support you’ Mitu took this step after a lot of thought.

She had always ignored it in the past and moved on. Though this time she felt she had to address the vicious lies. The bullying felt relentless, targeting not only her company and the festival but also her team and her family. It was so deeply personal and hateful that she would have lost respect for her own self if she hadn’t done something about it. She has never defended anything and always felt that her work always spoke. She is quite right seeing her body of work, I, too feel that she doesn’t need to justify to anyone at all. Thousands enjoy the festival every year, and eagerly wait for the next one. And after a while, that narrative is the only truth. I am not surprised when she tells me she has lost respect for some people. People who chose to play all sides and engaged in petty politics. Where do they find so much time, she wonders?

‘It is also surprising when people talk about Women empowerment and equality but leave no opportunity to spew their misogyny’ Being a part of the Film festival myself in 2019, I’ll say that one just needed to be at Federation Square during the Bollywood Dance Competition or at the Awards night. The energy of the crowd takes you to a new high when people from all walks of lives come together as a community, some cramped up like sardines, just to get a glimpse of Sharukh Khan. Or the unique opportunity to hear from the Masters about their craft. Seeing such positivity and then suddenly having viciously dismissed by a handful of people is mindboggling. Mitu says, “we love the festival and it is a privilege to produce it”. They respect all opinions, including the unflattering ones. However, being disrespectful, vicious and a bully is not the way to go about it.

"Respect is a twoway street and sadly kindness is underestimated". Here I am, looking at a woman who brings the Indian community in Australia together via arts and cinema. She’s also a mother, and she’s someone’s daughter. As Mr Sethi rightly points out, ‘She’s the daughter of India.’ Mitu’s message to the wider community is simply to be kind to each other and live every moment. Things at the moment are not easy for everyone, while people are gasping for oxygen, and here

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we are arguing for things that don’t matter in the bigger picture. At the end of the day, it’s all about the journey and overcoming the obstacles and moving forward, it is not about judging each other. ‘The whole environment of bitterness doesn’t serve the purpose.’ Yet, here I am talking to a businesswoman who wouldn’t change anything if there was a retake in life. If anything, she has learnt change with the pandemic; as Mitu rightly says, we just can’t plan anything and take it for granted. Still, she sees her company in the next five years producing films and shows, and keeping herself and her family healthy and happy. For Mitu the mother, her message for young mothers is not to get bogged down with expectation and the media’s perception. There is no rulebook for being a mother; there is no right or wrong. We should follow our heart and stay true to who we are – and have our careers. Yes! It’s difficult to balance it but it can be done. ‘Don’t put yourself last.’ As we wrap up the interview, we have to ask the mother what she wishes for her daughter. Her wish is simple, like most mothers. She just wants Parina to be independent, self-sufficient, happy and contributing to the larger community. Mitu wants her daughter to have all the things that are important in life – especially love and dignity. While writing this, I cherish all that makes Mitu – a full circle celebration of a mother, daughter, wife, businesswoman, friend and a mentor. I think of none other than Frida Kahlo “At the end of the day we can endure much more than we think we can.” By Nandita Chakraborty

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FEATURE

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

COMPOUNDING FLAVOURS Master chef contestant and pharmacist Depinder formulates food her way

“She looks up to her fellow contestant Pete- his style is not only technical and different but she just adores things that she can’t do.” This year’s Masterchef is not only good looking, multi-talented, who knows their food but it’s a concoction of diversity, inclusivity and women dominating the scene. We at The Indian Weekly and G’day India not so long ago had the joy to talk to another contestant of Masterchef’. Naturally, Mr Sethi (the editor-in-chief) and I got all excited to talk all things food and life with this young chef- introducing Depinder Chhibber (29) from New Castle, NSW. A cheerful voice carpeting the phone as she greets back ‘Sat Sri Akaal’ to Mr Sethi a touch of humility and a sincere acknowledgement of her culture. Along with her parents and a younger brother, she moved from Delhi to Australia at the age of eleven. A pharmacist by profession but cooking has always been an integral part of her life. She introduced herself to Masterchef once she was here in Australia, Depinder confesses she’s not only one of those super fans of Masterchef but she will treat any contestants from the show to stardom. When it came to fulfilling her own journey to Masterchef, the motivation lacked a bit of enthusiasm as self-doubt conquered most of her queries. Then Covid happened, like most of us things just changed; even shifting her reflection on life and motivating her to join Masterchef. She quotes, “I just have to go for it.” The road from being a pharmacist to a chef has been a bit of a journey for this young Masterchef contestant. Acknowledging herself to a stardom status though she is not working full time as a pharmacist, she still keeps in touch with her residency. It is hard to stop being a pharmacist especially when she has worked so hard to be one and definitely, it has been an arduous journey to embrace the new role of a chef. Although cooking comes naturally to her, whether cooking at home or at the Masterchef kitchen, as a designated chef at home, she would be the one cooking dinner at night. So, her master plan coming back from work was to experiment with a lot of different stuff to her family’s willingness to try. The love for food started for her at an early stage. Depinder tells me that she was never a fussy eater and loved her vegetables. She’s not one of them who ate to survive, she eats to enjoy and that’s a reflection on her current setting. The origin for this twenty-nine-year-old started at the age of six when she would visit her grandmother’s house or at her own house in India, she would sit in the kitchen to watch the cook who would come to prepare their meals. Curiosity from an early age has connected her emotionally with food and that’s what has led Depinder today in the Masterchef kitchen. Cooking is in the DNA of Punjab and it is also true that cooking emerges early at a Punjabi home. So when it came to Scott Pickett’s challenge for immunity this statement was imminent proof. Cooking on an open fire is laborious and challenging especially when one is not familiar with the technique. At home, her husband always taking charge of the barbecue, she in charge

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G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

of the marination and during the challenge in Masterchef she was daunted by this task what if the chicken tandoori wasn’t moist or tasty enough? But, thankfully, everything worked in her favour, from the technique to the taste. Her massive experiment with Lassi, infusing smoke to the drink, serving it with her tandoori chicken. It was a huge risk but that’s what she needed to show the judges that she is here to win. Even competing with Adam D’sylva and his team of chefs, Depinder led her team to victory against Tonka. On that note, Mr Sethi asks her a very tricky question what is cooking to her? To that, Depinder says that it is not just therapeutic, treating it as a meditation but it gives her a great satisfaction to cook for somebody. She takes criticism very importantly, but when her feedback comes from her husband, it doesn’t go that well, but with Masterchef it was a massive shift. She has learned to incorporate feedback not just inside the show but also in day to day life. She explains criticism as not only shaping her mind but it developed her creativity. Her love for food has made her appreciate different cuisines and cultures. Being a massive foodie, it’s not hard to navigate between the

two, she tells her favourite can be anything from Chinese food to modern Australian and anything that goes in between. Depinder is emotionally attached to Indian food because growing up in India, she grew up loving this food. Her research on Indian food has expanded her horizon to experiment with it but when it comes to eating she would just eat anything. Along with her husband (who grew up in Australia), they travelled to Delhi, Kerala, Nepal, and Italy for an exposition of flavours. So naturally, when it came to asking her about spices, she thinks it’s like picking amongst her favourite. Her voice bursting with excitement when she tells it has to be chilli and the green cardamom. She explains the rich glossy skin of the Kashmiri chillies - part herb, part spice tempers its way into sweet or savoury dishes, whereas the versatile green cardamom is rich in flavour and aroma. Just like the bento box challenge inspired by her grandma’s chickpeas and pickles, a giggling Depinder tells us even she didn’t expect to see the way it has blown out. The story to this challenge dates back to her summer holidays in her grandmother’s house in India. There they would often be presented with a Thali (plate) with different bowls of condiments like dhaal and pickles. So that’s the simplest explanation to Depinder’s cooking this simple meal that she not only pulled off in 90 minutes but translated to a new form of Indo-bento sophistication. Depinder tells us food is technical and Indian food has its own depth and technicality, for us Indians the whistle of a pressure cooker is a familiar sound. Also quoting Melissa “Just because it comes naturally to us doesn’t

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necessarily mean it is not technical.” Leading a self-confessed nine to five robotic life, I can see how Masterchef has changed how Depinder looks at food. Throughout the interview, I not only sensed the enthusiasm and the jubilant cook who had all the ingredient of becoming this year’s Master Chef but I see her as a visionary chef. The way Depinder invents dishes from the original and then almost stumbling to discovering something new - be it savoury or dessert. If she wins or not it doesn’t matter as she’s already a winner and if she opens up a restaurant or writes a cookbook, she will flourish in that too. For this supernova I cannot help quoting Francois De La Rochefoucauld “To eat is a necessity, but to eat intelligently is an art.” By Nandita Chakraborty

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LEGAL

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

Secretly recording private conversations BY GURPAL SINGH

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eople are extensively using the technology including but not limited to data surveillance, a listening device, optical surveillance device or a tracking device. Such technologies provide their users an ability to gather information which may otherwise be not possible to obtain. The surveillance has the potential to impinge upon the individual’s privacy and the risks include lack of transparency, function creep, intrusiveness and over collection. It can also threaten the locational and territorial privacy. The law relating to use of such devices in Victoria is regulated by the Surveillance Devices Act 1999(Vic) and the regulations of 2016. Surveillance is a ‘deliberate or purposive observation, recording or monitoring of a person, object or place. Such activities can be conducted could be on an ongoing basis or a temporary feature in response to an identified need. The law defines the listening device means any device which is capable of being used to overhear, record, monitor or listen to a conversation or the words spoken to or by any person in conversation. However, this does not include the hearing aid or similar device used by a person with impaired hearing to overcome the impairment and allow that person to hear only the sounds ordinarily audible to the human ear. The

private conversation is defined to be a conversation carried on its circumstances where the parties to the conversation ought to reasonably expect to be confidential and private to the exclusion of other parties (third parties). A person who knowingly install, use or maintain a listening device to overhear, record, monitor or listen to a private conversation to which a person is not a party without the permission of each party to the conversation is committing an offence under the act and such an offence is punishable with imprisonment of two years. The statute is designed to protect the private conversations and the related private activities. A private conversation as defined under the act is any conversation that is carried out in circumstances where it is reasonable to assume that the parties to the conversation only want the words heard by the other present in the conversation. This does not include the conversation which potentially may be overheard by someone else. At the same time conversations taking place in the public places and overheard are not private in nature. The question now arises to the recording of a conversation without consent by a person who is a party to the conversation. A person is not committing an offence if the said person is a party to the conversation so recorded; have the permission of the other person or there was an authority of a warrant or by an order of the competent authority/

court. Although the recording is permitted within the limited scope, the communication and publication of such a conversation in private domain when such information was gained as a result of surveillance device attracts the criminal jurisprudence and is punishable. Such person, however, is allowed to take the defence that the such a communicated or published material was reasonably necessary to protect the lawful interests of the person publishing or communicating the information. As often seen in the family law proceedings, the admissibility of such an information would depend on the discretion of the court if the desirability of admitting such evidence will outweigh the undesirability of admitting the evidence known to have obtained in an illegal manner. The courts have from case to case determined the issue of admissibility of illegally recorded information if such a recording was reasonably necessary. However, there had been instances where the court found that the recording of the discussion was intended to be used for a ‘set up’ rather than a reasonable cause. Such a theoretical and manipulative behaviour intended to push the buttons to upset or aggravate the other party. Curiously, such a recording may have criminal implications. In another South Australian decision, the court ruled that the family law matters are not the one which fall within the scope of proper purpose for a recording. Certainly, one need to trade with caution while handling such a situation.

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

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OPINION

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

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Even Decency in Death is a Privilege Given Only for The West -Dear Indians, World Has Once Again Turned Blind!

BY KARTHIK ARASU President of “Australia India Sports Council

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ur tears have dried up, we are struggling to withstand this crisis. Every day when we receive calls from back home in India, we are scared, and go into a state of eerie sense we can’t explain. In a true sense, the Indian-Australian community is on edge, too many have lost parents, friends, and loved ones back home. Australians from many other communities who have loved ones overseas are struggling with the same. It was looking like India is on the right track until the past two months and suddenly a crisis of unimaginable proportion has knocked it to the ground. Many loved ones will be only in memory when we return to India next time. Who is responsible? Maybe EVERYONE. The one who hid the virus outbreak and conveniently now selling all the medical supplies at a higher price to the rest of the world. The Governments who did not do enough or buckled under pressure. The people who simply do not want to be responsible or leave their comforts. In recent months whenever I call my relatives and friends back home in India, I will almost end up call in utter dismay and anger, they knowingly refuse to understand the seriousness of this virus. Almost everyone went on to shopping or functions without proper safety precautions when the virus was still at its peak in India. Just because of that careless attitude, now almost everyone I know is impacted by this rampaging second wave of Covid19 in India. Condolence messages have become our daily greeting,

both aged and young alike are losing this battle. This was the same situation earlier in China, then in Italy, followed by Brazil, South Africa, even the US, and just recently in the UK. The hospitals and the Government in all these countries mentioned above and many more around the world could not cope, there was death everywhere. But alas, I can most certainly say that none of you would have seen the dead bodies in the crematorium or funeral pyres splashed across in the world media. The media across the western world and even Indian media had shown dignity when they reported the thousands of deaths across the globe, but I am dismayed that they could not extend the same courtesy for the Indians who have lost their lives. The reason is none other than our god-forsaken tolerance, too much of Amrut is Poison, too much of tolerance is a nail in our coffins. Why are Indians who lost their lives are treated so poorly when the rest of the world is given dignity? Why even in death media have robbed the respect from these poor souls? Media Companies and Indian journalists are selling images of Hindu Funeral pyres burning in crematoriums, with families crying and performing prayers around the dead. Have you seen pictures like this when death was at its peak in Italy or the US? ‘Starving Child and Vulture’, many of us know this famous picture where a vulture was stalking a little child, the photo, known as ‘The Vulture And The Little Girl’, was taken by young photojournalist Kevin Carter in Sudan in the year 1993 and published in The New

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York Times. He won a Pulitzer Prize for this picture, but just four months after he was awarded the prestigious honour, he committed suicide. Florida newspaper the St Petersburg Times criticised Carter openly by saying, "The man adjusting his lens to take just the right frame of her suffering might just as well be a predator, another vulture on the scene". Today 28 years after that famous picture was shot, we see many more such vultures preying on corpses and human misery to fill their purses. Recently “The Australia Today” criticised Indian journalist Barkha Dutt openly for unfairly sensationalising the deaths of Indians; it said, “Barkha Dutt didn’t spare even her father’s death for her propaganda. If vultures are assembling at a place, dead bodies are scattered nearby. How can Barkha Dutt be far from the crematorium? She reported from the cremation ground in Surat on 19 April”. Journalists used drones illegally to shoot pictures in the Hindu crematorium and we saw many of these pictures are being sold online for cash-rich western media. It is just a sensational cover picture for them, but you know what? it is the loss of humanity and every moral high ground they preach. Many may argue with me, for them, I respectfully ask to stand in the shoes of the ones who lost their loved ones, sorry we do not wear shoes in our crematorium, they are sacred, please try to stand in their place for a moment and feel a camera hitting the flashlight on your face for that perfect picture. The world's most wanted terrorist Bin Laden was given a decent burial away from the eyes of the world citing religious reasons, why don’t they extend the same respect to the innocent people of India? They will not because we don’t question them, we don’t call them out, even worse they play blind to our misery and we run with eyeshades to protect their fake blindness. They are morally corrupt, and we are pompously righteous.

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FEATURE

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

5 PRECAUTIONS TO KEEP IN MIND FOR AIR TRAVEL IN THE TIMES OF COVID-19

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lmost a year ago, one of the busiest airports in the world- Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi had a deserted look brought about by the coronavirus. A year later, the airport has terminated operations on terminal 2 as a result of the reduced number of flights due to the second wave, which is turning out to be more deadly than the previous one. The air travel industry has witnessed significant changes since the pandemic, even as two things remain constant - the threat from the virus and the effort to ensure a safer surrounding. While leisure travel has taken a halt, air travel still remains unavoidable for some - many people are returning home amid the second wave-to be with their families during these times or for other personal or family health emergencies Cases reported on air travel spread have been minimal due to which flights are being considered as a safer travelling option, however, it is always good for travellers to be extra cautious and look out for their own safety and practice precautions while boarding a flight. While it is imperative to mask up, regularly sanitise and avoid unnecessary contact with people and surfaces, there are other things as well to keep in mind while taking a flight. With the current safety concerns set to stay for the foreseeable future some precautions that a passenger should keep in mind while travelling by air. Double Mask up for maximum protection: With the second wave of coronavirus spreading ferociously, people have realised the importance of doubling up the protection. Is double mask

safer than a single mask? Indeed, studies done by Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) state that double masking can reduce one’s exposure to the virus by up to 95 per cent. The CDC recommends layering a cloth mask over a surgical mask. Avoid combinations such as two surgical masks, or a K95/N95 and any other mask. Minimal contact clothing: Such testing times require cautious approach even while choosing your outfit for air travel. It is advisable to cover your body as much as possible, so track suits are a good option. Travellers should also avoid wearing open toed shoes to ensure minimal contact. Wearing goggles can also add a protective layer for your eyes. It is also advisable to wear socks so that your bare feet don’t touch the airport floor during security check. Reduce, Disinfect your baggage: The more the merrier? This saying has gone for a toss, at least while travelling during the Covid crisis. Despite safety protocols in place, your bag will pass through several channels and people from check-in to the final destination. It is advisable to check-in fewer bags. In the event that reducing the baggage is unavoidable, it should be thoroughly cleaned using disinfectant wipes after the journey. Apply sanitizing gel to a tissue and make sure to wipe the handles and bottom of the luggage.

people within your 6-foot exposure radius by half. An aisle seat should be avoided as travellers tend to visit washrooms, touch surfaces and walk by, increasing one’s exposure to the virus. So, make sure that you book your ticket and seat way in advance from a travel portal such as EaseMyTrip.com. Maintaining distance and hygiene over the course of the journey: It is difficult to give up on a sip or two of water throughout the course of the journey. With Covid around, it is advisable to carry your own bottle to minimise contact with people, which is a possibility at the point of sale. While there is very little you can do on the plane to maintain distance, ensure that you keep your distance from people in the terminal. Walk around the terminal while you’re waiting for your flight as the seating area could be a point of infection. It is also advisable to clean and use disinfectant wipes for surfaces such as the tray table or in-flight entertainment systems that you will be using in the flight. Similarly, precautions should be taken while accessing washrooms at airports and on flights, including using elbows to open the doors. It is advisable to stay away from washrooms that are crowded.

While it may not be possible to avoid all points of contact, the current global crisis merits a heightened sense of caution, and it is important for travellers to be aware of their surroundings and take all possible necessary precautions Edging towards the window seat: from their end to ensure a safe journey. It is A window seat could come with an extra jab also advisable to look up state wise air travel of protection owing to the less exposure and guidelines and notifications listed on https://www. movement of passengers, and thus avoiding easemytrip.com/covid19-help.html to ensure that unnecessary contact. A person sitting in the one is up to date with all necessary travel and By N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe window seat will essentially reduce the number of airline information.

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G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

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DEALING WITH A DEMANDING BOSS You open your laptop only to find a bunch of emails which need to be replied. With that comes more work that needs to be completed within the shift of “working hours” (which keeps extending most of the time) while we work from home. To add to this mayhem are the unnecessary zoom meetings scheduled wherein you are expected to be a part of and contribute.

Does this sound familiar? Bosses are of all types, and many people can relate to having a manager whose leadership style puts a strain on their daily life. Many of us have come across various types of dysfunctional bosses- the passive aggressive one who makes those unnecessary sarcastic comments and remarks in meetings, the micro-manager who wants to haunt you at every step of the project and changes/corrects every step. The abusive/ aggressive one, who screams loudly to express their thought about everything you do. Or the stalker manager who checks on your every move at work - even when you take that much needed coffee break! Rakesh (name changed for privacy purposes) shares that his boss wants him to be available after hours and only communicates with him through messaging/texting. He often disregards his ideas.

Putting labels is not going to help to relate with your boss on a productive level. So how then can one bring about a shift in the paradigm? Calm your body to calm yourself - Your body is always a good place to start to acknowledge and build awareness of defences that might be up. Focus on your body and what’s happening within. It might be helpful to take 5 mindful breathes to be able to focus on what is inside and what is outside. Neuroscience tells us that embodied practice is where real and sustainable behavioural change occurs. Make sure you have identified the difference between being a boss and being bossy. This means exercising authority is not the same as being overly authoritative. Someone needs to be the one in-charge, the one to make decisions, and to make sure work is done in a timely fashion. A good boss will see when their team needs direction and will provide it in a constructive way. A bossy boss will try to control the situation by demanding certain things to be done without taking into consideration the capacity of the employee.

When you work for one of these bosses, you can feel like you’re being set up for failure. It can be quite difficult to defy an authority figure and even the idea of expressing your thoughts might feel unsafe and intimidating. Inspite of being confident on your viewpoints, it can still be anxiety provoking to not comply with the directions of your boss. Eventually, you may be more upset with yourself than you are with When struggling with unrealistic deadlines your boss because you’re caught between this or expectations it is essential to bring your conflict of appearing incompetent - and upsetting expertise, gauge the scenario and not dwell into your boss by speaking up. insecurity that you can’t do it. And yet if it still feels unrealistic, review it regarding how much The easiest way out at that moment seems time and effort it would actually take from your to be to seek greener pastures? Or is it that we experience and then find ways to communicate could be wearing tinted glasses in order to feed that. Try chunking a big project into small tasks that feeling of helplessness. so as to not get overwhelmed by the deadlines placed on you. Hold on, take a pause understand the ways you could bring about a shift in this equation. Evaluate your boss’s approach and style to

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understand if you’ll get a better response by behaving proactively or reactively. The way boss’s work could also be a management culture. Embodying the boss’s style helps to know what to expect and how to respond to it. You’ll gain valuable insights into some of the ways you may be holding yourself back from being able to make greater contribution. Build empathy - It would be very difficult to be empathetic in situations that feel like a dead-end. Try to understand what is leading your boss to be this way. It will definitely help you to see and understand things from their perspective. What is the boss’s outlook? What might he/she be dealing with in their role? What challenges do they have to face? Do some trial runs before you convey an argument? Share your viewpoints in a nonthreatening manner. Come up with workable solutions rather than presenting problems. Feasible and realistic solutions tend to catch more attention and acknowledgements. Be receptive to the feedback that you receive but do not accept all the feedback. If you disagree, you can communicate authentically without being aggressive or disrespectful. Approach your boss in a calm, professional, and rational manner. Asking for feedback doesn’t necessarily mean it will be positive. So be open to the idea of critical feedback. Your success also depends on the delivery and timing of your discussion; make sure you listen and are mindful of how you respond. It is important to remember that you lead by example so be a good role model. By Jenisha Shah

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FESTIVALS

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

Ganga Dussehra: Glorifying the Holy Goddess Ganga BY ARCHITA BAWEJA

I

ndia is a land of festivals and festivals here are not just religious in nature, but they are linked to life and celebration. Among the myriad of festivals celebrated in this country, Ganga Dussehra is of great significance. River Ganges is the most sacred river to the Hindus. It is worshipped as the goddess Ganga in Hinduism as it is a lifeline to millions of Indians who live along its course and depend on it for their daily needs. Apart from providing drinking water and irrigation fields, people revere the river as a deity and innumerable mythological stories too are associated with the river. The great epic Mahabharata mentions the most significant tale on the emergence of the Ganga on Earth. It mentions that King Bhagirath brought Ganga to earth to free the spirits of his forefathers from the curse of Saint Kapila. It is said that Ganga told Bhaghirath that it would be physically impossible to control her mighty flow and for that he should pray to Lord Shiva and ask for his favour. Brahma, the creator, blessed Ganga and let her out of his Kamandal or the holy pot. Ganga then rushed on to the barren land with all her might. Her flow was so strong that Lord Shiva had to hold the flow of the river

with the strands of his hair. Hindus believe that the holy river Ganga descended from heaven to earth on Ganga Dusshera. Dusshera stands for the ten promising Vedic calculations. These predictions signify Ganga's ability to wash ten sins associated with thoughts, speech, and actions. The Ganges is not only a sacred river but

also the heart of India. Devotees worship this river for a better fortune. On the day of Ganga Dussehra, thousands of lamps are lit in the flowing river for bringing peace and goodness. Haridwar, Prayag, and Varanasi are the most popular celebration spots of Ganga Dussehra in India. On the same day, the river Yamuna is also worshipped, and kite-flying events are organised. Devotees take a holy dip in the Yamuna at places like Mathura, Vrindavan, and Bateshwar, and give offerings of watermelon and cucumber. They distribute drinks such as lassi, sharbat and shikanji. The Ganga river arises from Gangotri in the snow-clad Himalayas, flows in the hot plains of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and meets in the Bay of Bengal. It also meets with Saraswati and Yamuna river in Allahabad. The confluence of these rivers in Prayagraj known as ‘Triveni Sangam’ is the holiest spot in India. It is believed that taking a dip in the river on the day of Dussehra can bring the devotee to a state of purification and heal any physical ailments that they may have. In Sanskrit, Dasha means ten and hara means to destroy, thus bathing in the river at this time is believed to rid the person of ten sins or alternatively sins of ten lifetimes. It also helps to gain health, wealth, and prosperity by performing personalised Rudrabhishekam Puja on the Ganga Dussehra.

Archita Baweja of Melbourne is an engineer by profession but a writer at heart

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FEATURE

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

REMEMBERING THE GOODNESS OF WALNUTS Despite three months of scorching heat, summer is full of reasons to invest in well-being, from seasonal fruits and vegetables, long days and international and national food days to keep reminding you of your promise of good health to your mind and body.

treat illness, it is important to eat a balanced diet.

Easy to incorporate in meals Munching on a handful of walnuts isn’t the only way to reap the health benefits of this nutritious food. They are incredibly

On the National Walnut Day, that falls on May 17 every year, let’s remember the goodness of these crunchy old’ nuts:

delicious and crunchy and boast great potential on the cooking front because of their ability to absorb flavours and work equally well in both sweet and savoury dishes. To add some much-needed excitement to your daily meals, you can pair these with a variety of food groups, including fruits and veggies, dairy, and breads and cereals, to name a few. Toss it into your salad, cake, or ice cream, blend it with fruits and veggies for your morning smoothie or grind it into a paste to use in dips or gravy, or simply make a trail mix -- there are so many creative ways to work them into your diet. Easy to store Contrary to popular belief, walnuts can easily remain fresh at home provided you store them away from moisture, light, and warmth. Shelled or unshelled, put the walnuts into a resealable bag or an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator or freezer based on the period of use. If you’re going to use them within a month, keep them in the refrigerator or move them to the freezer.

Packs a nutritional punch Walnuts are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids and offer other hearthealthy fats, protein, fibre, and vitamins (including vitamin B6), among others. Munching on these on a daily basis may reduce the risk of heart disease, improve brain health, ensure a healthy gut, and help in weight management. Infact, Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)’s Eat Right During Covid-19 guidelines mention foods with omega-3, zinc, selenium, protein and vitamin B to help maintain a healthy immune system and play a role in our body’s healing and recovery. And each of these nutrients is present in walnuts. Now, while no single food can prevent or

Making everyday healthy is not an easy task, but with walnuts in your daily meals, you may get a few steps closer.

By Siddhi Jain

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36

TECH

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

MANY OLDER ADULTS ADAPTED TECHNOLOGY DURING LOCKDOWN The Covid-19 lockdown led several older adults to adapt and engage with technology -- such as Zoom, WhatsApp or FaceTime -- to stay in touch with loved ones or participate in exercise classes or religious groups, finds a new study. The participants reported that lockdown had led them to engage with neighbours and other members of their communities for the first time, while several said social distancing had brought an additional meaning to life, by highlighting what was important to them. “Those who engaged in such activity were able to prevent high levels of loneliness, therefore, helping older adults to increase their digital literacy and use of remote social interactions could be a really important tool for addressing loneliness,” said researcher Anna Whittaker from the University of Stirling. According to the research, understanding the coping mechanisms adopted by some over the 60s during the pandemic will play a key role in developing interventions to help tackle loneliness, isolation and well-being in the future. For the study, published in the

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, the team surveyed 1,429 participants -- 84 per cent (1,198) of whom were over 60. The researchers examined the impact of social distancing during the pandemic on loneliness, wellbeing and social activity, including social support. More than 150 participants reported that

their religious gatherings had moved online -- replacing face-to-face gatherings -- while 91 said that social gatherings with family and friends had changed in favour of online ‘games nights’. The role of community -- particularly neighbours -- was mentioned by more than 300 participants. (IANS)

UBER INTRODUCES NEW VALET FEATURE TO MAKE RENTING A CAR EFFORTLESS Ride-hailing company Uber has introduced a new feature in an effort to make renting a car effortless. As per Mashable, as the ‘Uber’ users have had the option to rent a vehicle through the company for some time, Uber announced that one would now be able to book a rental vehicle from ‘Avis’, ‘Budget’, ‘Hertz’ and dozens of other companies directly from the application and have the vehicle delivered to home and picked up when one is done through the new Valet feature. “No rental vehicle counters, no lines, no schlepping,” the organisation said on Wednesday, adding that it’s “carrying the sorcery of Uber to the rental vehicle experience.” As revealed by Mashable, ‘Uber Rent’ with Valet will dispatch in Washington, D.C., in May with plans to extend cross country this year. Uber has also provided more data

about its partnership with Walgreens to help individuals with getting inoculated. From Wednesday, one can reserve a vaccine and a ride to your appointment through the Uber app. It has committed 10 million free or

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discounted rides to help members of underserved communities get to their vaccine appointments. (IANS)

VIRTUAL

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

37 37

GOOGLE PHONE APP CAN NOW ANNOUNCE WHO’S CALLING

If you have an Android device with Google Phone app on, you will now be able to hear who is calling when the phone rings.

According to 9to5Google, the company is rolling out a new feature for its Phone app that will announce the name and number of any incoming calls — a move to help users screen unwanted calls. Currently, the Pixel phone owners in the US have received the automatic Call Screen feature, and other countries will get the new tool soon. You can set whether you want the app to announce caller ID every time the phone rings, or when an earphone on. To enable the new feature, open Google Phone, go to Settings and then Caller ID announcement. The “Announce caller ID” is disabled

by default but you can choose between “Always,” “Only when using a headset,” or “Never.” iOS devices already have the caller ID feature enabled.

Caller ID announcements are a great accessibility feature, allowing people with visual impairments to more easily know who is calling them. (IANS)

WHATSAPP WON’T LIMIT FUNCTIONS IF YOU DON’T ACCEPT NEW POLICY In a U-turn, WhatsApp has said that it will not limit functionalities for users who do not accept the new privacy policy that went into effect on May 15.

until they accept the updates,” the company had said. Earlier, taking the user privacy war to the court over new IT rules, WhatsApp said that that user privacy is in its DNA and requiring messaging apps to “trace” chats undermines people’s right to privacy.

The Facebook-owned platform that has filed a lawsuit against the Indian government in Delhi High Court over chat ‘traceability’, went ahead with implementing its controversial user privacy policy from May 15, saying that those who do not accept new changes will see limited functionality in the coming weeks.

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) had asked social media platforms to abide by the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 by May 25, or face strict action.

In a statement WhatsApp said that it won’t restrict any functionality even if the users don’t accept the policy for now. “Given recent discussions with various authorities and privacy experts, we want to make clear that we currently have no plans to limit the functionality of how WhatsApp works for those who have not yet accepted the update,” WhatsApp said.

A WhatsApp spokesperson said that requiring messaging apps to “trace” chats is the equivalent of asking us to keep a fingerprint of every single message sent on WhatsApp.

“Instead, we will continue to remind users from time to time about the update as well as when people choose to use relevant optional features, like communicating with a business that is receiving support from Facebook.” WhatsApp rolled out its privacy policy globally including in India, where it has more than 400 million users.

they will have to eventually go through limited functions if they fail to accept the new norms in the due course of time.

The users will not immediately lose their accounts or face curtailed functionalities, but

“After persistent reminders, the users will encounter limited functionality on WhatsApp

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“It would break end-to-end encryption and fundamentally undermines people’s right to privacy. We have consistently joined civil society and experts around the world in opposing requirements that would violate the privacy of our users,” the spokesperson stressed. WhatsApp said that “we will maintain this approach until at least the forthcoming PDP (personal data protection) law comes into effect”. (IANS)

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RELATIONSHIPS

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

How to deal with a

flirtatious boyfriend?

Have you developed a sense of insecurity because of a flirtatious boyfriend? Do you suffer from a loss of trust? This can be disheartening and sometimes irritating. In this scenario, you need to give this bitter experience a little time, and maybe when you understand his real intentions, things fall in place. Some need a lot of patience to deal with this.

Don’t allow your hopes to shatter when you see him flirting with a girl in your presence, stay calm. A cheeky boyfriend doesn’t necessarily mean he is cheating on you. Avoid allowing your insecurities to get the better of you and don’t let anger overcome your thoughts. Handling things maturely prevents you from walking towards out the door on your relationship. If you no longer feel enthusiastic about the guy you love, your eyes don’t twinkle with happiness and excitement, one won’t blame you. After all, a partner who make advances on other woman is not pleasant. However, being flirty doesn’t always mean that your partner feels any physical attraction to others or has sexual interest towards them. Sometimes it’s just harmless fun. The suggestions on how to cope with this are based on feedback received from 10,000 Gleeden users (female) from across the nation. Do not rush! Different people flirt for different reasons. So, before assuming that he is a cheater and has bad intentions, make sure that you don’t rush and end up taking a harsh decision. The reasons might surprise you, some flirt simply to boost their confidence, some prefer doing it for fun, and few might do this because they have a flirty personality and do it unintentionally without any real interest in the person. Try and see if he flirts only with hot girls, or if he just simply gets on well with anyone he meets and speaks with. Keep calm and observe! Based on their real-life experience, 46.25 per cent of Gleeden users have said that being patient to judge a man’s character is the best way to go forward. Impulsive behaviour could lead to verbal engagements that can hamper the relationship. Be calm and self-composed The first thing you should do after discovering his intentions is to stay poised. The naturally flirtatious ones won’t harm you. Make him realise his habit unnerves you and find a middle path. We know it’s tough to remain

graceful but that’s the only wise thing to do here. Find the right time, cool your nerves, and have a little casual chat, not too serious!

eyes open in a relationship. One should always be aware of the status of the relationship and how the other person is behaving.

Self-control is the best way forward and 51.12 per cent of Gleeden users have suggested the same. Irrespective of the steps taken by the male counterpart, the Gleeden community suggests staying calm and being happy in your own world, this will not only send a strong message to your partner but remember you should never allow your happiness to be dependent on another.

Trust is essential It is! Things don’t take a U-turn all of a sudden and change dramatically. Do not put too much pressure on him, give him sufficient time to show you his efforts, and try and be positive. Give him the signal you trust him, he will feel happy and will make an effort to make you feel relieved.

Watch your tone In the heat of the moment, you might miss out and your tone may become harsh as you discuss sensitive matters. If you talk to him in an accusing and offending tone, you will never achieve what you want. By raising your voice, he will simply get defensive and the spark between you two will start vanishing. If you wish to get things done, talk but don’t fall prey to an unnecessary argument. It will lead you nowhere. Maturely communicate with him, ensure that you control your anger, and talk some sense. Words can’t be taken back and the Gleeden community also strongly believes in it as 41.42 per cent of the users have voted the same. Even in the case of an argument, words should be chosen wisely with a milder tone. Don’t act naive Trust is the backbone, but too much trust is also not good. Find the right balance between trust and awareness. You must ensure to be trustworthy but yet conscious of what is really going on in his life. The right attitude towards your love life and partner will ensure a happy and joyful relationship. About 40.34 per cent of Gleeden users have said that one should always keep both their

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Relationships are built on trust and 45.72 per cent Gleeden users agree. Interestingly about 38 per cent of them have stated that the trust should not be blind! Communication is key Communicating in the right manner plays a very important role in taking care of your relationship. Do not show the ugly side of your relationship by indulging in unnecessary arguments when in public and instead, find a moment to talk when it’s just the two of you. Create a dialogue and express what you have noticed so far and how it feels to be in your position. The golden rule is, do not accuse him, ask him the reason behind it and make sure you make him comfortable to open up with you. Try to end the conversation on a good note where you don’t end up hurting him and request him to control his behavior for the sake of your relationship. About 43.7 per cent of Gleeden users state that many relationships end due to lack of communication among the partners whereas 41.7 per cent of them state that there is no harm in taking the first step to start a communication if the feelings are real. By N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe

LIFESTYLE

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

39

Taking more steps daily may lead to a longer life

Taking more steps per day, either all at once or in shorter spurts, may help you live longer, according to preliminary research. The findings of the research were presented at the American Heart Association’s Epidemiology, Prevention, Lifestyle & Cardiometabolic Health Conference 2021. The virtual meeting offered the latest science on population-based health and wellness and implications for lifestyle. Walking is one of the safest and easiest ways to improve fitness and health including heart health. The American Heart Association’s fitness guidelines for adults recommend at least 150 minutes per week of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous physical activity, or a combination of both. Popular fitness apps and step counters make it easy to count steps, so researchers used a wearable step counting device to compare the effects of uninterrupted bouts of steps (10 minutes or longer) to occasional short spurts, such as

climbing the stairs and general daily activities throughout the day. “Technological advances made in recent decades have allowed researchers to measure short spurts of activity. Whereas, in the past we were limited to only measuring activities people could recall on a questionnaire,” said lead study author Christopher C. Moore, M.S., a PhD student in epidemiology at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. “With the help of wearable devices, more research is indicating that any type of movement is better than remaining sedentary.” From 2011-2015, 16,732 women wore a waist step counter that measured their daily steps and walking patterns for four to seven days. The women were all over age 60 (average age of 72; mostly non-Hispanic white women) and were participants in the Women’s Health Study, a large, national study of heart disease, cancer and other long-term disease prevention. The researchers divided the total number of steps for each study participant into two groups: 1) 10 minutes or longer bouts of walking with few interruptions; and 2) short spurts of walking

during regular daily activities such as housework, taking the stairs, or walking to or from a car. In follow-up, they tracked deaths from any cause for an average of six years, through December 31, 2019. Researchers found: 4 Overall, 804 deaths occurred during the entire study period of 2011-2019. 4 Study participants who took more steps in short spurts lived longer, regardless of how many steps they had in longer, uninterrupted bouts. The benefits levelled off at about 4,500 steps per day in short spurts. 4 Compared to no daily steps, each initial increase of 1,000 steps per day was associated with a 28% decrease in death during the follow-up period. 4 A 32% decrease in death was noted in participants who took more than 2,000 steps daily in uninterrupted bouts. A prior analysis of the same women reported that those who took 4,500 steps per day had a significantly lower risk of death compared to the least active women. “Our current results indicate that this finding holds even for women who did not engage in any uninterrupted bouts of walking. Taking 2,000 or more additional steps during bouts was associated with further benefits for longevity,” Moore said. “Older adults face many barriers to participating in structured exercise programs, so some may find it more convenient and enjoyable to increase everyday walking behaviours, like parking slightly further from their destination or doing some extra housework or yardwork,” Moore said. Since all study participants were older and mostly non-Hispanic white women, more research is needed to determine if the results apply to men, younger women and people from diverse racial and ethnic groups. (ANI)

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HEALTH

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

NIGHT SHIFT WORK IS LINKED TO MENSTRUAL IRREGULARITY NEW research suggests that night shift work is linked to menstrual irregularity and increased chance of developing endometriosis. According to a study being presented at the 23rd European Congress of Endocrinology (e-ECE 2021), on Sunday, women working night shifts may be at a greater risk of menstrual irregularity and developing endometriosis. The research found a reduction in the expression of PER-2, CRY-1 and CLOCK genes along with an increase in REV-ERBb in ectopic compared to eutopic tissues. Prior to this research, there had been no previously published studies relating to the alterations in core clock genes and the impact on women with endometriosis Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb starts to grow in other places such as ovaries and fallopian tubes. Endometriosis affects roughly 10 per cent (190 million) of reproductive age women and girls globally. The symptoms of endometriosis can vary some women are badly affected, while others might not have any noticeable symptoms. In severe cases, it can be very painful and can cause infertility, miscarriages and ectopic pregnancies due to the probable effects of endometriosis on the pelvic cavity, ovaries, fallopian tubes, or uterus.2 Disruption of circadian rhythm in night shift workers has been associated with menstrual irregularity, as well as an increased chance of developing endometriosis and ovarian tumours.

Dr Narjes Nasiri-Ansari, Dr Aggeliki Karapanagioti, and a team of colleagues under the guidance and supervision of Professor Eva Kassi from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece, investigated the expression of the core clock-related genes in paired eutopic and ectopic endometrial tissues. The study looked at 27 patients with confirmed ovarian endometriosis. Eleven (11) paired samples were collected from ovarian cysts (ectopic endometrial tissues) and normal endometrium (eutopic tissues), while further eight (8) ectopic and eight (8) eutopic endometrial tissues were collected from 16 different patients with the same diagnosis. “The clinical evidence that circadian rhythm disruptions can be associated with

endometriosis, is now confirmed at the tissue level, by the altered expression of local clock genes in ectopic endometrium. Understanding the causes and effects of endometriosis will improve our ability to detect, manage or even prevent the condition. These findings provide us with a better understanding of biological rhythm disturbances,” commented Professor Eva Kassi. The results from this study demonstrate an altered expression of CLOCK, CRY1, PER-2 and Rev-ERBb in normal endometrium tissues, as compared to ectopic endometrial tissues, indicating a disturbance of biological timing. However, the causal relationship of the altered expression pattern of these genes with the development of endometriosis needs further investigation. (ANI)

SLEEP WARNING FOR OLDER MEN

FLINDERS University experts have warned against disrupted sleep that can be linked to cognitive dysfunction. The researchers discovered that it is advisable that men aged 65 and over should monitor their slumber patterns and seek medical advice.

Associate Professor Andrew Vakulin, said the results suggest that day-to-day activities that rely on optimal attention and cognitive speed such as driving, physical activities and walking might be affected by the encroachment of poor sleep.

In a new article published in the Journal of Sleep Research, the Adelaide Institute for Sleep Health research group studied a group of 477 middle-aged and older men’s attention and processing speed in relation to their sleep. The participants from the Florey Adelaide Male Ageing Study undertook cognitive testing and a successful sleep study.

The Medical Director of the research group, Professor Robert Adams, noted that decreasing deep sleep as people age is associated with cognition. This emphasises the importance of ongoing research looking at ways to stimulate deep sleep as a means of slowing cognitive decline with age.

“Less deep sleep and more light sleep is related to slower responses on cognitive function tests,” said lead author Jesse Parker.

“While obstructive sleep apnoea itself is not directly related to cognitive function in all men studied, we did note that in men aged 65 and older, more light sleep was related to worse attention and processing speed.” Senior author of the study, Flinders

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Further longitudinal investigation is needed to connect poor sleep and sleep apnoea with future changes in sleep patterns and cognitive decline as well as general microarchitectural changes in older people’s sleep patterns. (ANI)

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

ASK DR. RAJ…

Health tip:

This months Q:

each day will help re moisturise the eye. Increase your intake of green leafy vegetables and try the combination of 3 carrots, a piece of beetroot, a small piece of ginger, a good squeeze of lemon juice and a piece of bottle gourd if you can find it. Also eat a piece of cucumber each day. Then see the wonder. Ensure that your eyes receive a break often. Rub both palms together quickly for 8-10 seconds. This friction creates a A: Dear Ms.B . Dry eye is bemild heat. Close eyes and cup coming a very common problem. your palms on them without presThis could be due to the nature sure to create complete darkness. of your work (excess computer exposure) or due to age (as lesser Each morning upon waking (either tears are produced), climate (such before or after using the toilet), fill as too much air conditioning), less your mouth with water and hold for a few seconds with your eyes blinking etc. closed. Spit it out and repeat 2-3 times. Homeopathy has excellent eye And also remember that dry eyes drops to help you in this regard. can be very effectively treated by Users have provided feedback Homeopathic remedies, combined that their vision is much clearer and they don’t suffer from dry eyes with proper eye care. anymore, but a continuous usage for a few months will be required along with some lifestyle changes. I insist on eye exercises to mainBy Raj Kothuru tain eye health. Please send any of your health related questions to DRY EYE RELIEF: Q: Hello Dr Raj, I have very dry eyes and because of this my eyes become very sore. My eyes burn, are irritated most of times and reading etc is very difficult. I have tried several over the counter remedies but of little help. Can Homeopathy help? Ms.B.

3 table spoons of flax seed oil

drraj@aurahealth.com.au with Ask Dr Raj as the subject line or ph: 94788649 / 0425761826. The questions will be published with your identity protected.

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Studies found that inositol, a sugar alcohol occurring in kiwi, may improve nerve conduction velocity in diabetic neuropathy

How Can Noise Cancellation Headphones Help You Get Good Teeth?

D

oes the noise of drills at the dentist’s make you run for life? You are not alone. The noise of dental drills cutting deep into your teeth is so scary people often avoid going to the dentist because of it. But what suffers the most from this dislike is your dental health. And you cannot compromise your dental health. To solve this issue, we, at Healthy Smiles Dental Group have introduced noise cancellation headphones at our clinic. Our principal dentist, Dr Ved Berani, says, “Noise cancellation headphones are becoming very popular these days. You can see hordes of people syncing to their favourite rhythms without disturbing others. So, we thought, why not use them for dentistry and provide comfort to our patients suffering from dental anxiety due to dental drilling noise. And it is working just fine. We treat many of our patients while they are using these headphones. Our greatest joy comes when we see them smiling carefree.” Noise cancellation headphones have positively comforted anxious dental patients. Let us learn more about how these noise cancellation headphones prove beneficial to the patients: 1. Music can uplift your mood faster As we all know this proven fact, music is one of the best remedies when it comes to uplifting spirits. No matter how stressed a person is, good music can soothe all the lines on the forehead. When it comes to dental patients who are anxious about their dental treatment, we use the same concept. Our Healthy Smiles clinic provides Spotify streaming in all rooms. You need to select your favourite genre and tune in while we operate on your teeth. Patients have had a great experience with noise cancellation headphones. 2. It works to distract you from worries

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Patients suffering from dental anxiety have all kinds of worries and troubling thoughts about a dental procedure. But when we explain the whole dental process in advance, it helps them feel in control of their surroundings with the knowledge of the proceedings in advance. And the noise cancellation headphones add to this comfort. They distract the patients from whatever that is left of the worries. Patients can relax throughout the whole dental procedure. 3. You can also watch a show of your choice on our screen These noise cancellation headphones can also be synced with a TV screen on the ceiling. You can watch a TV show while our dentists work on your teeth. When the patients are relaxed, our dentists can also concentrate more on the treatment. The aim behind using noise cancellation headphones for dentistry is to provide patients with a comfortable dental care experience. Our dentists enthusiastically work towards providing the best dental treatments using state-of-the-art technology so that you can leave all your anxieties behind and walk out with a confident smile. Do not neglect to look after your teeth and oral health because a lot of health issues can stem from oral health conditions. Contact us today to make use of this new method of cancelling out the drill noise and pay your teeth all the attention they need. Visit our Blackburn clinic or call us on 03 9877 2035.

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

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HEALTH

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

Men, elderly with diabetes at higher risk of death from Covid with metformin (the ‘first line’ therapy used in most cases of Type-2 diabetes) were 50 per cent less likely to die with Covid-19 than those not using metformin.

Men and older adults with a more advanced diabetes have a higher risk of death when infected with SARS-CoV-2, the virus behind Covid-19, according to a large study.

Further, cardiovascular disease (by 56 per cent), chronic kidney disease (by 93 per cent) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (by 40 per cent) all increased risk of Covid-19-related death in people living with diabetes.

The findings showed that men with diabetes were 28 per cent more likely to die with Covid-19 than women with diabetes. People aged over 65 with diabetes were also over three times more likely to die than those under that age with diabetes. With each five-year increase in age, the relative risk for Covid-19 related death in people living with diabetes increased by 43 per cent, said the team of researchers from German Diabetes Centre, Leibniz Centre for Diabetes Research at Heinrich Heine University Dusseldorf, Germany. The team conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of 22 studies and 17,687 people. The results, published in the journal

Diabetologia, showed that patients using insulin to control their diabetes were found to be 75 per cent more likely to die with Covid-19 than non-insulin users. Conversely, people treating their diabetes

“Male sex, older age and some preexisting conditions, as well as the use of insulin, most of which are potential indicators for a more progressive course of diabetes, were associated with increased risk of Covid-19 related death and severity in individuals with diabetes and SARSCoV-2 infection, whereas metformin use was associated with a lower risk of death,” said Sabrina Schlesinger from the varsity. (AGENCIES)

COVID STRESS INCREASED SUICIDAL THOUGHTS The Covid-19 pandemic has not only hit physical health and the economy but has also impacted mental health with the possibility of increased rates of suicide, according to a study. Led by a team of researchers at Swansea University, Cardiff University, and the NHS in Wales, the study probed exactly which Covidrelated stressors were most likely to trigger suicidal thoughts and behaviours. The survey was conducted on more than 12,000 people, which asked volunteers to share their experiences during the first UK lockdown. The results, published in the journal Archives of Suicide Research, show that several stressors such as social isolation, domestic abuse, relationship problems, redundancy, and financial problems were strongly linked to suicidal thoughts and behaviors. However, not everyone enduring these issues reported having suicidal thoughts. Those individuals with high levels of resilience and hope for the future were less affected by these pressures. “We can use these findings to target which stressors are the most toxic in terms of driving people towards thoughts of suicide. While some of these may ease as we come out of lockdown, others may persist well into

the future,” said Professor Nicola Gray, from Swansea University. “Many of these stressors are difficult to avoid, so we also need to instill hope for the future in our communities to help people get through these difficult times,” added Professor Robert Snowden from Cardiff University. The researchers also discovered the important role that hope for the future can play -- along with individuals’ levels of resilience -when it comes to coping with these stressors.

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“People’s responses to a traumatic crisis do not follow a simple path of depression then recovery. It is currently unclear as to whether people simply have got worse as the crisis has continued or whether they are becoming more immune to the situation and are developing increased resilience. Only by understanding this can we be in a position to make an effective response and help people who might be suffering,” said James Knowles, from Swansea University. (IANS)

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

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One cup of leafy green vegetables a day, keeps heart diseases away additional benefits.

New Edith Cowan University (ECU) research has found that by eating just one cup of nitrate-rich vegetables each day people can significantly reduce their risk of heart disease. The study investigated whether people who regularly ate higher quantities of nitrate-rich vegetables, such as leafy greens and beetroot, had lower blood pressure, and it also examined whether these same people were less likely to be diagnosed with heart disease many years later. Cardiovascular diseases are the number one cause of death globally, taking around 17.9 million lives each year. Researchers examined data from over 50,000 people residing in Denmark taking part in the Danish Diet, Cancer, and Health Study over a 23-year period. They found that people who consumed the most nitrate-rich vegetables had about a 2.5 mmHg lower systolic blood pressure and between 12 to 26 per cent lower risk of heart disease. Lead researcher Dr Catherine Bondonno from ECU’s Institute for Nutrition Research said identifying diets to prevent heart disease was a priority.

“People don’t need to be taking supplements to boost their nitrate levels because the study showed that one cup of leafy green vegetables each day is enough to reap the benefits for heart disease,” Dr Bondonno said. “We did not see further benefits in people who ate higher levels of nitrate-rich vegetables.” “Our results have shown that by simply eating one cup of raw (or half a cup of cooked) nitrate-rich vegetables each day, people may be able to significantly reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease,” Dr Bondonno said. “The greatest reduction in risk was for peripheral artery disease (26 per cent), a type of heart disease characterised by the narrowing of blood vessels of the legs, however, we also found people had a lower risk of heart attacks, strokes and heart failure.” The study found that the optimum amount of nitrate-rich vegetables was one cup a day and eating more than that didn’t seem to give any

Dr Bondonno said hacks such as including a cup of spinach in a banana or berry smoothie might be an easy way to top up our daily leafy greens. “Blending leafy greens is fine, but don’t juice them. Juicing vegetables removes the pulp and fibre,” Dr Bondonno said. The research adds to growing evidence linking vegetables generally and leafy greens specifically with improved cardiovascular health and muscle strength. This evidence includes two recent ECU studies exploring cruciferous vegetables and blood vessel health and green leafy vegetables and muscle strength. (ANI)

CASUAL LINK BETWEEN CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH AND COFFEE CONSUMPTION In a world-first study of 390,435 people, University of South Australia researchers found causal genetic evidence that cardio health - as reflected in blood pressure and heart rate - influences coffee consumption. Conducted in partnership with the SAHMRI, the team found that people with high blood pressure, angina, and arrythmia were more likely to drink less coffee, decaffeinated coffee or avoid coffee altogether compared to those without such symptoms and that this was based on genetics. Lead researcher and Director of UniSA’s Australian Centre for Precision Health, Professor Elina Hypponen says it’s a positive finding that shows our genetics actively regulate the amount of coffee we drink and protect us from consuming too much. “People drink coffee for all sorts of reasons - as a pick me up when they’re feeling tired, because it tastes good, or simply because it’s part of their daily routine,” Prof Hypponen says. “But what we don’t recognise is that people subconsciously self-regulate safe levels of caffeine based on how high their blood pressure is, and this is likely a result of a protective genetic mechanism. “What this means is that someone

who drinks a lot of coffee is likely more genetically tolerant of caffeine, as compared to someone who drinks very little. “Conversely, a non-coffee drinker, or someone who drinks decaffeinated coffee, is more likely prone to the adverse effects of caffeine, and more susceptible to high blood pressure.” In Australia, one in four men, and one in five women suffer from high blood pressure, with the condition being a risk factor for many chronic health conditions including stroke, heart failure and chronic kidney disease. Using data from the UK Biobank, researchers examined the habitual coffee consumption of 390,435 people, comparing this with baseline levels of systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and baseline heart rate. Causal relationships were determined via Mendelian randomization. Prof Hypponen says how much coffee we drink is likely to be an indicator of our

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cardio health. “Whether we drink a lot of coffee, a little, or avoid caffeine altogether, this study shows that genetics are guiding our decisions to protect our cardio health,” Prof Hypponen says. “If your body is telling you not to drink that extra cup of coffee, there’s likely a reason why. Listen to your body, it’s more in tune with your health than you may think.” (ANI)

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

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HUMA QURESHI:

MOVING FROM DELHI TO MUMBAI CHANGED MY LIFE Actress Huma Qureshi says playing the protagonist Rani Bharti in the upcoming web series “Maharani” was exciting because it involved ‘forgetting’ a lot of what she knows, in order to become the character. She says moving from Delhi to Mumbai to be an actress was an experience that in some way helped her understand Rani. Rani is an illiterate village woman, oblivious to most things in the world outside, and yet she finds herself in the centrestage of Bihar politics after a twist of fate, and ends up being chief minister of the state. Like Rani’s ignorance about the world of politics, Huma says she had no idea what it meant to be a part of Bollywood when she was growing up.

This pandemic has also shown us humanity. So many people have used social media to help people, get someone a bed, get plasma. I have done that for people on my social media. I have seen the goodness of human beings. That has been my one takeaway from this time,” she says. By Anjuri Nayar Singh

“Rani Bharti has never stepped outside her village. To play her was a big challenge. She’s absolutely opposite to how I am. That was the exciting part. If you know something how, do you forget about it? How do I show in Rani’s eyes if she doesn’t know something despite me knowing it? That was fun and challenging. The look and costume really helped,” she said.

You just want people to like watching you: Ileana D’Cruz

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ctress Ileana D’Cruz has had a great run-down South and has also been doing her share of Bollywood films. She says everything comes down to people and, as an artiste, one just wants the audience to like watching you. Popularity, she explains, is the one thing that balances the fact that the film industry can actually be a very cruel place to survive. “It (the film industry) is brutal, of course, but it comes down to people. If they (people) like you that is all you need. You just want people to like watching you,” she said.

“Moving from Delhi to Mumbai has been a turning point. It changed my life completely. I was living a different life in Delhi. I never thought that this was the world I belonged to. I grew up in Delhi, my friends are also from there. I dared to be somebody I was told I can’t be. For me and my family, me moving to a different city was a big change,” she says.

Ileana feels the moment an actor is not appreciated they lose the mark. “It basically goes the same for me. I wouldn’t want to watch a film with an actor I don’t like watching. The minute you are not liked anymore you sort of lose the mark. The industry is brutal in a sense, but it has got so many perks as well,” she says.

The actress is happy to be able to entertain people during this tough time. “The world is shut down. I was talking to my cousins, and two years of the kids’ lives are gone. They can’t go out to play, meet school friends. Their childhood has gone. Theatres have shut down, the industry has shut down. Of course, it’s sad but we have to make the best of the situation. I am happy that I am blessed that I can put out some work where people can forget all this for a while and watch something. So, maybe I can help in this way,” she said.

Acting is a profession that comes with its pros and cons, the actress notes, in this context. “You cannot have all the good things only, there is always a little bit of con. I think that makes it interesting. It makes you work harder. It makes you strive to keep doing better,” she sums up. Ileana will next be seen in “Unfair N Lovely”, a comic take on India’s obsession with fair skin. The film is set against the backdrop of Haryana and casts her opposite Randeep Hooda.

In fact, she adds that social media has been a big help right now. “This pandemic has shown us the worst that is there. It is heartbreaking and shocking.

By Durga Chakravarty

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G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

DEEPIKA PADUKONE FEATURES IN ‘SEVEN HAPPY WOMEN’ LIST Diamonds. “Seven Friends of the Maison who represent, each through in their own way, a strong, free, joyful way of living in the world and of owning the spirit of the era. Deepika Padukone, Aja Naomi King, Jung Ryeo-Won, Sadie Sink, Anne Nakamura, Dorra Zarrouk and Yang Zi have all grasped the codes of their time to blaze their trail in a manner that is both singular and generous.” Theirs are powerful voices that resonate with that of Karin Scheufele -- Caroline Scheufele’s mother -- who once exclaimed, faced with the first sketches of the future Happy Diamonds: “diamonds are happier when they are free”.

Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone has featured in the ‘Seven Happy Women’ list by Chopard under its ‘Happy Diamond’ campaign. The other names in the list include Aja Naomi King, Jung Ryeo-Won, Sadie Sink, Anne Nakamura, Dorra Zarrouk and Yang Zi.

The brand quotes: “An indispensable voice, she (Deepika) speaks of the fragility and strength of the human mind, which she describes with great intelligence: ‘To accept the highs and the lows. To embrace the various emotions that we are challenged with every single day. And to live a life that is fuelled by authenticity and purpose.’ A strong mantra for a free spirit that bears witness to a deep humanity, making her a true global icon.”

Chopard’s Co-President and Artistic Director, Caroline Scheufele, has chosen the names with unparalleled influence to embody Happy

By Puja Gupta

Nobody functions well under pressure: Elnaaz Actress Elnaaz Norouzi says she is not one to stress over performing well on screen or choosing the right project.

board with a script, she says that it all depends on if she likes it and how different it is from what she has done before.

The actress, who has been seen in the web series “Sacred Games” as well as the OTT-released film “Hello Charlie”, feels if she takes on pressure, she won’t be able to perform well.

“I read the script and if I like it, and if I feel that it has potential, then I go for it. I never go for what I’ve done before or what people expect of me. It’s my career, and the first priority is always what I love to do, and something that can be challenging for me as an actor. Hopefully, that’s the right script to choose,” she says.

“I believe that nobody functions well under pressure, especially me. So, I never put myself in a place where I feel the pressure of performance. That’s detrimental, especially in a creative field like ours,” she said. Talking about how she comes on

(IANS)

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G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

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Stay positive until these bad times pass:

Salman Khan

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has shared words of encouragement for fans facing various crises amidst the ongoing second wave of the Covid pandemic.

‘Glad’ my parents separated: Shruti Haasan

“I would just like to say that we all need to stay positive and hold the fort until these bad times pass. This is a phase and it shall pass. I know all of us are going through very critical times, we must have faith and help each other in whatever way we can,” Salman said. Meanwhile, he is excited about his popular “Dabangg” avatar of Inspector Chulbul Pandey getting an animated avatar on the small screen. “Dabangg: The Animated Series” will be created keeping in mind his young fans. “’Dabangg: The Animated Series’ is an adaptation and reimagination of ‘Dabangg’. The action-comedy series chronicles the day-to-day life of police officer Chulbul Pandey, who stands in the face of evil to keep the city safe. He is joined by his younger brother Makkhi, who, new to the police force, attempts to emulate his older brother in every sticky situation,” Salman said. Quizzed if he is lending his voice to the lead

character of Chulbul Pandey, the actor replied: “Unfortunately I am not lending the voice to the character in the animated series, but fans wouldn’t be disappointed because the voiceover actors have done a fantastic job.” Backed by Cosmos-Maya and Arbaaz Khan Productions, “Dabangg: The Animated Series” streams on Disney+ Hotstar VIP. By Ahana Bhattacharya

It took me 19 years to find the real role of my life: Sonu Sood

Actress Shruti Haasan has opened up on the divorce of her parents, actorpolitician Kamal Haasan and actress Sarika. The couple parted ways in 2004. In an interview, Shruti revealed why she was glad that her parents separated.

Actor Sonu Sood, who completed 19 years in the film industry, says he has finally found his true calling. The actor has actively been helping people find Covid resources like beds, oxygen cylinders, as well as medicines, as the country battles the second wave of Covid-19. “It took me 19 years to find the right role of my life, which I am doing today and I am glad that God is the director of this real film. Today, when I bring smiles to people’s faces, that is the biggest achievement I have till date. I want to thank God for connecting me with the real role

that I wanted to play in my life,” he said. The actor says that workwise, too, the time has gone by so quickly. “It has been 19 years since my first film ‘Shaheed-E-Azam’ released. How time flies! It still feels like the first day when I entered Mumbai with a lot of pictures in my bag and the struggle started from going from one office to the other. I still feel the struggle is on,” he says. The actor will be seen in the films “Prithviraj” and “Kisaan”. (ANI)

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“I was glad they separated as I do not think two people who are not getting along, should be forced to get along for some reason. They continue to be wonderful parents. I am particularly close to my dad. My mum is doing well and is a part of our lives as well. It actually panned out for the best,” Shruti told Zoom Digital. The actress further told the portal: “When they separated, I was very young, and it was very simple, they were happier apart than they were together.” Kamal Haasan and Sarika tied the knot in 1988 and parted ways in 2004. Apart from Shruti, the couple are also parents to actress Akshara Haasan. (ANI)

Shilpa Shetty: This too shall pass Buddha”

“We have a lot of unsettling things happening all around us. All of these can have a very adverse effect on our thought process. That’s when it’s most important to keep a check on your thoughts and emotions. You can manifest a world of change and positivity simply through your thoughts. So, no matter how testing the situation may be, always remember... this too shall pass. Keep your spirits high, chin up, breathe deeply, and stay mentally & emotionally positive!” she added.

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

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Current situation makes us think hard about climate change: Sonakshi Sinha

The actress has been doing her bit in keeping her fans motivated and healthy through her posts on Instagram. She often posts pictures of yoga asanas too, explaining their significance. Actress Shilpa Shetty Kundra took to Instagram to share a motivational post for fans, urging them not to lose hope amidst the tough times of pandemic. The actress posted a picture of herself doing a yoga asana, which said: “What you think, you become. What you feel, you attract. What you imagine, you create --

Meanwhile, the actress’ family recovered from Covid 19 recently and she resumed her position as a judge on the reality show “Super Dancer: Chapter 4”. She is also set to return to the big screen for the first time in 17 years with the films “Nikamma” and “Hungama 2”. . (IANS)

Balancing family life with work is difficult: Suniel Shetty Actor Suniel Shetty says that it is tough to take out time for your family when you are part of showbiz. However, he adds that it isn’t impossible. Actress Sonakshi Sinha says that it is important to value the environment we live in.

The actor, who was present at a recent shoot for the dance-reality show “Super Dancer: Chapter 4”, was treated to a performance depicting his relationship with his wife Mana Shetty, by contestants Amit Kumar and super guru Amardeep. Appreciating the performance and looking back at his relationship with Mana, Suniel said: “This brings back so many memories, it is unbelievable. Shayad (Perhaps), it’s been nearly 40 years that we have been with each other, nine years of seeing each other and 30 years of marriage this year. Being in this industry, balancing your family life and work is quite difficult and it’s not possible unless you have a partner who is strong and believes in you 100 per cent. Hats off to her.” Actress Shilpa Shetty Kundra, who is a judge on the show, spoke about how she has known Suniel for many years and how she has always been impressed with the relationship he shares with his wife. “I have known Suniel for many years. I had attended his wedding also, but he wasn’t aware of me back then. I had gone to see ‘the Suniel Shetty’; he was like the

“We end up in the environment we create for ourselves, and we must make sure that it’s beautiful. The current situation around us is making us think hard about climate change, and the kind of effect it has on our planet. As responsible individuals, if we make small sustainable changes to our daily routine then together, we can create a healthier environment to live in,” she says.

new actor and I felt proud because he belonged to our community and he was the first man from the bunt community to become an actor. That was really inspiring for me. Today also when I see Mana and Suniel, it is very inspiring because they still behave like friends. Mana is an incredible person, and I truly believe that you both are soulmates. She truly is the strength behind him. Mana, I love you,” she said on the Sony Entertainment Television show. (IANS)

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On the occasion of World Environment Day on June 5, Sonakshi, along with actress Tara Sharma, will be seen on the digital property “Earth Champions”, which streams on the Sony BBC Earth Instagram page. On screen, Sonakshi is all set to make her web series debut with “Fallen”, where she plays a cop. She is also part of “Bulbul Tarang”, which will have a digital release, and will be seen in the film “Bhuj: The Pride Of India” co-starring Ajay Devgn, Sanjay Dutt and Nora Fatehi. (IANS)

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FOOD

bon appétit

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

Did you know:

Ragi flour is loaded with calcium and Vitamin D, which makes it vital for increasing bone strength

Understanding the importance of salt, oil, spices and sugar

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yurveda teaches that salt is essential for growth, maintaining water electrolyte balance, and proper digestion, absorption and elimination of wastes. It creates flexibility in the joints, stimulates the appetite and helps digest natural toxins, clearing the subtle channels of the body. It has a calming effect on the nerves and emotions, replenishing and energizing the entire body. Salt balances Vata and can imbalance Pitta and Kapha when used excessively, causing premature wrinkles, thirst, skin problems and weakness. Throughout time, salt (sodium chloride) has played a vital role in human societies. However, excessive salt consumption could result in serious health problems as it directly impacts the energy levels in one body. Salt is typically made up of the fire and water elements and a small amount regulates moisture level in the body which promotes better absorption of nutrients from food, regulates blood pressure and are vital to the functioning of the brain and nervous system. Eating too much salt can have a range of effects. In the short term, it may cause bloating, severe thirst, and a temporary rise in blood pressure. In severe cases, it may also lead to hypernatremia, which, if left untreated, can be fatal. In ayurveda, it

is established that overindulgence of any ingredient can cause various imbalances in the human body. From a holistic perspective anything overused, misused or used in a high amount leads to an imbalance and causes destruction. Similarly, ayurveda teaches that the sweet taste nourishes and invigorates the mind, relieves hunger and thirst, increases tissues and improves the immune system. Importantly, it is associated with the positive emotions of happiness, contentment, calmness, cheerfulness, love and satisfaction when eaten in appropriate amounts. But again, in moderation. From an Ayurvedic perspective, we need to consider long-term moderation combined with well-timed and precise restraint. Brown sugar, jaggery and natural fruits are used as an alternative to refined sugar. Natural sources of sugar are digested slower and help you feel full for longer. It also helps keep your metabolism stable. 'Ati sevanam' as per Ayurveda might lead to high blood pressure or hypertension involves a disruption of balance in the blood (doshas) one of which is due to excessive salt intake. Whereas high amount of fat intake can cause cholesterol to build up in your arteries (blood vessels), on the other hand too many spices may give acute gastritis,

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while if consumed in moderation it helps us in combating heart diseases, fight inflammation and keeping the body warm especially in winters. Hence the key is to keep consuming everything in moderation and to avoid 'Atikriya' (overdoing) of everything. Whether it's a food or any activity. Hence the key is to keep consuming everything in moderation and avoid Atikriya (overdoing) of everything, be it food, lifestyle, indulgence or any activity. As recommended by professionals at Vana, an individual should also practice some of the disciplined lifestyle for a content and mindful living. Some of them are: Daily Exercising for at least half an hour Avoid excessive exercises Avoid suppression of natural urges like that of urine Avoid daytime sleeping Avoid excessive stress and anger Avoid staying awake during night and others By Mohan

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

49

IS OLIVE POMACE OIL HEALTHY FOR INDIAN COOKING?

virgin olive oil. What’s more, it is completely neutral in taste, therefore, making Olive Pomace oil liquid gold for healthy Indian Cooking. FOR TASTE: Olive Pomace Oil is the perfect companion for desi food. It is a light oil with a neutral taste and flavour. Indian food encompasses a wide variety of regional and traditional cuisines and they all vary significantly from each other. Olive Pomace Oil can be used for all Indian cooking and the taste is quite incredible.

T styles.

he year 2020 has been an eye opener in many ways. Not only did it lead to introspection in general, it also changed quite eating habits, fitness and cooking

Cooking food is no longer a scheduled task just about cooking and eating, there is awareness, conscience awakening and science attached to it today. Right from raw vegetables, meat and even the oils that are used, consumers today have questions about wh at they are consuming, the source of raw materials, the formulation and production. Oil is an essential ingredient used in Indian cooking be it for frying, stir frying, shallow frying, pan frying, grilling, barbequing, baking, kneadinge there isn’t a component of cooking where oil doesn’t feature, even if it means a slight drizzle. It’s where it all starts and ends. For generations, the traditional mindset in using a particular kind and brand of oil has had a very ehand me down’ approach, something has been followed ritualistically until recently. Sunflower and Groundnut oil have constituted as majority in the cooking oil segment followed closely by Mustard oil. Today, there are a variety of cooking oils available in the Indian market and thanks to exposure to international standards and a whole new category of olive oils. Indian consumers are spoilt for choice but are they making the right one? How does one know

the oil they’ve been using isn’t doing more harm than benefitting? While there have been a few constants that have proven to be ideal choices for the palate and health, there are others whose properties are second to none but haven’t gained wide spread popularity. One such variant is Olive Pomace oil. Olive oil actually comes in a number of forms, colour, taste, and acidity level along with three variants: Extra-Virgin Olive Oil, Refined Olive Oil and Olive Pomace Oil. Extra-Virgin Olive Oil is a cold pressed olive oil with acidity below 0.3 percent. Owing to its aroma and flavour, it is suitable for making salads, dressings, flavourings or condiments for salads, pastas, rice, vegetables, meat, and fish. It is also rich in anti-oxidants when eaten in raw / cold form. However, it may not the right choice for typical Indian e high temperature - cooking. Olive Pomace oil is, however, the right olive oil for Indian cooking. Because of its extraction process, Olive Pomace oil is stable at high temperatures and contains higher Tocopherol and Squalene than even extra virgin olive oil. Tocopherol and Squalene are forms of Vitamin E which have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties for the body and is great for skin. Other properties such as its fatty acid profile (e.g, mono-unsaturated fatty acid) are the same as that jar of extra virgin olive oil that graces the aisle at the supermarket. In fact, it has the same composition as extra

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FOR HEALTH: While we face the second wave of the pandemic, it’s prudent to stay fit, eat right and follow a healthy lifestyle. The choice of cooking oil plays a major part in this. Choosing an oil that has necessary fats and zero cholesterol that are helpful for weight loss and maintaining a low-calorie diet is what one needs today. Olive Pomace oil is 80 percent monosaturated that can lower the cholesterol level. Monosaturated fats are healthy fats with fatty acid profile (high MUFA) like other Olive Oils found in olive oil, avocados and certain nuts. Olive Pomace oil also brings the additional benefit of Vitamin E for better immunity and tissue repair with Vitamin K for better bone density and health. FOR COOKING: It is a light, neutral in taste and healthier option than other edible oils and is stable at high temperatures. This helps beat the myth that Olive oil is not good for Indian cooking. What’s more, the great thing about Olive Pomace oil is that since it is absorbed less by food, it is great for healthy cooking and affordable at the same time, as it will be consumed less. FOR BEAUTY: Apart from uses in kitchen, Olive Pomace oil can be used to treat skin problems and hair problems by using a little bit of it on the damaged scalp to treat dryness. Similarly, one can also use it in the bath to rejuvenate dry skin. Olive Pomace oil is cost effective in comparison to the other grades of olive oil but when compared to the cost of regular soya bean, sunflower or the peanut oil, it is priced at premium. So, the next time you go for grocery shopping, take a leap of faith and grab that can of Olive Pomace oileit’s a health decision that’s much overdue!

By Akshay Modi

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DIET

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

It all starts with gut health BY DEEVYA GUPTA

I

ncreasing research is showing us the link between gut health and overall health. It’s more than just how your tummy is feeling. Many of us may experience symptoms such as bloating, gas, irregular bowels or even stomach pain when our gut health is not at it’s best, however gut health has been linked to impacting much more than that, for example, promoting a strong immune system, heart health, brain health, improved mood, healthy sleep, effective digestion and more. Probiotics and prebiotics The gut is made up of healthy bacteria and ‘probiotics’, which help break down the food we consume. Probiotics can be found in certain fermented foods, drinks and supplements such as: • Yoghurt/curd • Lassi • Kefir (a type of fermented milk) • Idli • Dosa • Dhokla • Paneer • Green peas • Pickles (achaar) • Kaanji These healthy bacteria require food to breakdown which is called ‘prebiotics’ to release their nutrition and benefits in the

body. Prebiotics are usually in the form of dietary fibre and are high in some of these food examples: Vegetables: Jerusalem artichokes, chicory, garlic, onion, leek, shallots, spring onion, asparagus, beetroot, fennel bulb (saunf), green peas, snow peas, sweetcorn, savoy cabbage Legumes: Chickpeas, lentils, red kidney beans, baked beans, soybeans Fruit: Custard apples, nectarines, white peaches, persimmon, tamarillo, watermelon, rambutan, grapefruit, pomegranate. Dried fruit (e.g, dates, figs) Bread/cereals/ snacks: Bajra, Barley, rye bread, rye crackers, pasta, couscous, wheat bran, wheat bread (including whole wheat roti), oats Nuts and seeds: Cashews, pistachio nuts Other: Human breast milk As these foods are high in fibre, they may produce more gas and wind if you are not used to a high fibre diet. It is recommended to slowly increase the amount if your body is not used to a regular intake. Note the dietary recommendations of fibre are at least 2530g fibre per day (unless medically advised otherwise), which many of us may not be meeting. What could I do to increase my fibre intake? • Include a high-fibre breakfast cereal • Add a few tablespoons of unprocessed bran or psyllium husks (isabgol)

to cereal, soups, curries, yoghurt, smoothies, cakes and biscuits • Add nuts, dried fruits and seeds to cereals • Eat wholegrain breads or use wholegrain flours • Eat fruit and vegetable skins wherever possible without peeling • Snack on fruit, nuts, and seeds • Choose foods that are higher in fibre • Add legumes and lentils regularly, even to salads An important point to note is we also need to keep well hydrated with a regular fibre intake, make sure you have plenty of water throughout the day to keep things moving. Other factors that may alter your gut health Along with food and drink choices, it is also important to make sure you have an adequate sleep, monitor alcohol intake, and note some medicines such as antibiotics that may alter your gut health. Stress can also have an impact on your gut health, if you need assistance to manage this reach out to someone who can help. If you have any ongoing symptoms or symptoms out of the ordinary consult with your doctor. 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.

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

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RECIPE

Tandoori Tangdi Kebab Tandoori food is the food cooked over intense heat of the charcoal in the “Tandoor” (cylindrical clay oven) known for its unique sublime flavour, tandoori cooking is a very specialized job. One can achieve quite similar results by cooking various meat and vegetables over barbecue coals or under a pre-heated griller. The secret is in the marinade which is traditionally used to give the food that distinctive mouth watering taste.

recipe Ingredients:

1 kg chicken drumsticks 1 tsp kashmiri red red chilli powder 1-2 tbsp of lemon juice a little salt OTHER INGREDIENTS: Butter to baste Chaat Masala

Garnish:

Marinade:

250 gms yoghurt 1 tsp kashmiri red chilli powder 21/2 tbsp ginger paste 21/2 tbsp garlic paste 2-3 tbsp lemon juice 1 tsp garam masala 2 tbsp oil Handful of Kasuri Methi (dried fenugreek leaves)

Onion rings, cucumber, tomato and lemon wedges.

Method:

Serves 2-4 BY MANJIT SETHI

from the private collection

Skin, clean and make slits on the chicken pieces. Season with red chilli powder, lemon juice and salt for 30 mins or longer. Mix all the ingredients of the marination with yoghurt. Apply this marination to the chicken pieces and refrigerate for a few hours or overnight. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Cook the chicken for 20 - 25 mins until tender. Baste with butter and cook for a further 5 mins till done. Serve hot.

Serve:

with a sprinkle of Chaat Masala and mint chutney

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G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

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ASTROLOGY

G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

By D. Narayan (Tantracharya) Mesha (Aries)

Vrishabh (Taurus)

Mithuna (Gemini)

M: 0425 660 220

Karkat (Cancer)

There is a possibility of getting the best results of your hard work in the competitive examination. This month will be good for you in general, except for one or two aspects of your life. The month will be good for your career growth. If you work hard, you will get success. There will be benefits and profits from the government sector. Conditions are also favourable for business.

This month will bring mixed results for the Taurus natives. This will be a good time from a career perspective. You will get benefits from your experience. With the help of your luck, there are chances of a promotion in the job. If you are into business, then this time is not very favourable for you. Avoid getting involved in other's work with the intention of causing harm.

This month will bring mixed results for you. You will have a month of cherishing moments as well as some not so good days. The time would be auspicious from the career point of view. Your family life can be full of difficulties this month. You are likely to get support from family members.

The beginning of the month will be good for those doing business, but there may be fluctuations in business after that. There may be disturbances in the relationship with the partner. It is a time of ups and downs from the point of view of education. your relations with senior officials may deteriorate. However, the students who are studying abroad are likely to get good success.

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

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

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

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

Simha (Leo)

Kanya (Virgo)

Tula (Libra)

This is a good time for love life. the showers of love will be embraced in the life of natives who are in a romantic relationship. The feeling of warmth towards each other will increase. You will get to enjoy romantic moments in your bond. There may also be mild wrangling, which will increase love between the partners. This is also a good time for married folks.

You will have a good reputation at work, but after that, there is also a possibility of increasing differences with senior officials, caution is required. Business people have to be careful at this time. There are chances of getting success when working with foreign countries, but your relationship with the business partner may get affected.

This is a good time for a career. Keep evaluating yourself from time to time. There are good possibilities for transfer at the beginning of the month. You can get success in changing jobs during this month. Also, the conditions are likely to remain good in business. There are chances of getting success. indication for an increase in business. This is a good time in the field of education.

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

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

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

Dhanu (Sagittarius)

This month is likely to be moderate foryou. This is a good time for your career. employed are likely to be promoted. It is important to pay attention to hard work & stay away from disputes. There is a need to be vigilant with your competitors. This is also a good time for people owning a business. There will be prominent growth in your business. You will achieve success by working on new plans. Best days: 9, 18 Lucky Colour: Red, Blue

Makara (Capricorn)

Kumbha (Aquarius)

Vrishchik (Scorpio)

This month will have mixed results for you. It is a differing time for your career. You will work with loyalty and dedication. There may be a promotion in the job. Also, conspiracy is suspected by opponents. Due to Rahu's transit, there may be a situation of confusion with the partner in the business and this time may be a bit weak in terms of business. However, the month end will be good. Best days: 1, 3, 4 Lucky Colour: Red, Orange

Meen (Pisces)

Month is good for your family life. There will be peace and happiness in the family. Any auspicious work can be done in the family. But the transit of Mars can also cause some stress in your family life. avoid dispute over the property, although relations with siblings will remain good and they can also benefit you. Watch your mother’s health. This time is difficult for love affairs.

From the health point of view, this month will be moderate. There can also be problems in the eyes. Weather related diseases are also possible. Chest tightness may occur. Keep your routine balanced and take precautions related to the weather. Be cautious about the food you eat. At this time carelessness in eating and drinking can be harmful.

From an economic perspective, this is a good time. A small increase in expenses is also possible, but you will not have any major financial problems due to good income. some schemes related to money can be hindered, due to which the money flow from them will stop for a while. Business people also expect good returns. You can also make a profit from any previous investment.

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

Best days: 5, 3, 6 Lucky Colour: White, Green

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

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Have a laug h

HAVE A LAUGH

These are some of the raw, today will wipe your face hilarious and unforgettable tomorrow." 'Robert Mugabe quotes' 5) Cigarette is a pinch of 1) "When your clothes are tobacco rolled in a piece of made of cassava leaves, you paper with fire on one end don’t take a goat as a friend." and a fool on the other end." 2) "If you are ugly, you are ugly. Stop talking about inner beauty because men don’t walk around with X-ray machines to see inner beauty." 3) "When one’s goat gets missing, the aroma of a neighbour’s soup gets suspicious."

6) No African girl will choose six pack over six cars... So, stop going to the gym and go to work! 7) lf Adam & Eve were Chinese we would have been in paradise because they would have ignored the apple and eaten the snake.

8) It’s better to sit in a bar 4) "Treat every part of thinking about God than to your towel nicely because the sit in a church thinking about part that wipes your buttocks beer.

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G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

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G’DAY INDIA | JUN 2021

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