s the Australian police or legal system inept or racist in itself is a question which is increasingly gaining momentum in India and amongst the Indian community here. Yet another assault on Indians, this time blatantly racist, took place recently in Melbourne, in front of at least fifteen witnesses. The Victoria Police’s inability to do anything about it has taken the Indian community here by surprise.
Four people, who allegedly assaulted four Indian men quietly enjoying a game of pool, were interviewed by police. They have been released, pending further investigation.
Victoria Police has admitted in their press release, that police on the scene had observed fifteen males and females make racist remarks. Yet nothing was done about these fifteen individuals.
That the Victorian police could not and did not take action against the group inciting racial hatred, is to be condemned. That it took four days after the incident for Victorian police to actually make any statement at all, is deplorable.
By PAWAN LUTHRA
It is interesting to note that the police actually went public with details only when the media in India took the assault to their front pages - a full four days after the incident! Prime time news Times Now network featured a 30-minute program on attacks on Indians in Australia, NDTV led the story with a headline of Unsafe Down Under; Times of India and Hindustan Times too ran headlines of Indians in Australia living in fear. Only after these reports were aired, did the Victorian police go public about the incident. Their comments that these “types of incidents occur regularly” is indeed a shameful display of either their inability to understand the gravity of the situation, or their ineptitude in handling cases of a racist nature.
Victorian Premier John Brumby will be in India when this issue of Indian Link hits the stands, assuring all that Australia is a safe country. In all probability, his words will be a repetition of Julia Gillard’s - who on
her maiden visit to India last month repeatedly stressed the same. As did Foreign Minister Stephen Smith, and before him, Trade Minister Simon Crean. Sure, it is a safe country, but tell that to the families of the victims who lie in hospital. Safety will only be accepted if these attacks cease and perpetuators of these crimes are dealt with in the strictest possible manner by the police and the legal system. Government spokespersons have said repeatedly they have “zero tolerance” towards those who incite racial violence, but does this attitude reflect in action?
It is also about time politicians and law enforcement officers understand the gravity of the situation.
Witnessing a blatant racially motivated attack on four innocent bystanders led on by a baying crowd, without taking action, is truly pathetic. What else did the Victoria Police need to jolt them into action –white-clad, cone-shaped masks and burning crosses? Or skinheads and swastika tattoos?
The 21st Anniversary of the Victorian Sikh Association (VSA) celebrated at feverish heights, in tune with this year’s theme ‘Hungama’. The venue – Golden Sands Receptions; the date – September 26; the drink –bubbly; the dress – expensive; the mood – anxious!
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In keeping with the ever-reliable Punjabi time syndrome, guests arrived on time at 7pm for a 6.30pm start.
Pagdis on goreys in Indian kurtas and jootis, dazzling sarees draping our ladies and black dinner suits with bow ties all mingled freely, adding to the glamour of the occasion.
VSA’s very own ‘Beauty Kaur’ Anu
Sabarwal direct from Mumbai was the host and Master of Ceremonies for the night. She was daring with her ‘Desi Girl’ entry and held the night together with a punchy, vibrant and interactive style of hosting.
It was a night to remember, from the onset. Mr George Lekakis, Chairperson of the Victorian Multicultural Commission and other VIP Guests were ushered into the ballroom, lead by Dholi Mav. The formalities were fluent and the speeches were to the point.
President of the VSA, Harvin Dhillon invited the Presidents of the Blackburn Sikh Temple and the Sikh Welfare Council to join him in presenting George Lekakis with a memento in appreciation of his contributions to the Indian Community. High Achievers Awards were presented for VCE Excellence to Jessie Khaira and Virenjit Sight. Sports Awards went to the MVPs of VSA’s Sporting groups. VSA
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Soccer won the Team of the Year Award –the boys celebrated all night long.
The typical Indian three course dinner by Tandoori Junction was rather mild for Punjabi taste, but still did justice to the palate. Richi Madan resident DJ, revved
up the latest tunes to keep feet grooving on the dance floor.
A bunch of live performances were a feature of the evening. Swinburne Bhangra Group blew the roof off, The Swinburne Garbha Group were elegant in their traditional outfits and stole the show. Naveenaz Group’s Bollywood was so good, I thought it was the Pussycat Dolls. The South East Sensationz jumped, jived, banged drums – bilkul mind-blowing hungama
The evening flew by and finally the guests departed, drenched in joy and wanting more.
Reviews from guests were excellent, several quoting “The best VSA dinner and dance to date – we will see you next year!”
Durga Puja, the biggest and the most happening festival in a Bengali’s life, was celebrated with much devotion, fanfare and gaiety by the Bengali Puja and Cultural Society of Victoria (BPCSV) on October 2-4, at the Oakleigh Mechanics Hall. The grand festivity was attended by almost 400 members of the Bengali community in Victoria. A resplendent idol of Devi Durga slaying the demon Mahishasura was the cynosure of all eyes. She indeed represented Shakti riding a raging lion and holding aloft the ten weapons of war in her ten hands. The deity, made from fibreglass and sourced from Basberia near Kolkata, was striking and impressive. Tradition, culture, and heritage took centrestage as the fragrance of dhunuchi, spring flowers and incense pervaded the air and enlivened the atmosphere. It was time for the community to re-connect and catch up with friends and family.
Men in embellished dhotipanjabi, women draped in jamdaani, baluchari, tant or tangail saris and teenagers and children in their best traditional attire chatted in leisurely fashion.
This year marked the 6th anniversary of the Puja which began on a modest scale and has now grown into a major affair, stated BPCSV President Prabir Choudhury. The Puja was executed with fervent passion, adhering to the sacred rites and rituals. Different ceremonies associated with it like the Chandi Puja, Nabapatrika Prakash, main Ashtami Puja, Shondhi Puja, Anjali, etc. were performed with solemn devotion by priest Dr Jagannath Chatterjee before the large crowd of worshippers. Fruit and sweets as prasad and a sumptuous bhog comprising were served on each day of the celebration. Sindoor Khela by the ladies marked the joyous end of festivities.
The highlights of the Ashtami revelry were the children’s drawing competition and the cultural programme, which had talented artists from the community
performing classical dances and making Bengali music. Singer Mrs Shilpi Dey deserves a special mention for her stirring and heartfelt rendering of modern Bengali songs that left the audience spellbound. She is definitely a talent to watch.
The celebration also demonstrated the laudable facet of mixed marriages in
multicultural Australia. Ms Rhonda Walker, an Australian of English heritage and married to a Bengali keenly participated in the festivities. “The community is extremely warm and accepting of me. Every year I learn something new and different …so much so, that now I’ve started wearing the sari and speaking the
language quite well,” said Rhonda. The BPCSV Durga Puja undoubtedly exhibited the true spirit behind the most important of all festivals for Bengalis. It truly symbolized the essence of passion for the Bangla culture, its emotions and its ultimate joy in celebration.
Madhuchanda Das
Navarathri is a huge festival in India and likewise, it is also celebrated on a grand scale in Melbourne each year, since the past several years. During the days of the festival, a group of ladies recite the Lalitha Namavali followed by Lalitha Sahasranamam in various homes from 7:30 to 8:30 pm, followed by prasadam. It is also celebrated with great fervour at the local Siva Vishnu Temple with an abhishekam for Lord Siva and Goddess Visalakshi. Each year sarees and ornaments are flown in from India, especially for this event. This is a sponsored pooja by all the families who attend on that day and another example of our community’s efforts in retaining, respecting and maintaining our tradition and culture
Bala BalachandranThe Oriya Association of Melbourne recently celebrated Ganesh Chaturthi with a day-long evert, in which members of the Oriya community got together to conduct the puja. It was followed by a Ganesh Vandana performed by four young girls from the local Oriya community. The dance was choregraphed by Nilakshi Barah. The grand finale was a feast for all who attended the auspicious occasion.
PREETI JABBAL reports on the work undertaken by the overseas students network support centre in Melbourne
Is Australia the right choice for Indian/ International students? In his recent trip to India, Premier John Brumby assured everyone that it certainly is, however, the 1500 calls received by a newly formed overseas student’s support network belies the claim that things are entirely satisfactory with Australia’s international education sector.
Rob Palmer Executive Director of OSSNA claims to be inundated with calls from students after an article on OSSNA, written by Sushi Das, was published in The Age recently. OSSNA also came into the limelight for supporting the case of Jaspreet Kaur, an Indian student who is seeking deferment from a private college in Melbourne.
According to reports Jaspreet Kaur, 24, arrived in Australia in April this year to study information technology. She paid in advance for the first two terms of the course. She says she discovered she was pregnant after two weeks of starting her course, and then fell ill with what was later diagnosed as a recurrence of malaria. She was only able to attend for a few weeks and switched to patisserie cooking for the second term when she found the IT course too tough, and paid a further fee for equipment and the next term of the new course.
Jaspreet and OSSNA claim that her Institute was more interested in the $7000 worth of fees she has paid, rather than her welfare. But the college claims she should have sought a deferment earlier, and they started the process of reporting her to immigration for nonattendance as per their standard procedure. The Immigration department asked Jaspreet to seek deferment from her course, however her college rejected her initial appeal for deferment.
Jaspreet and her husband Kulwinder Singh are keen to go back to India so that Jaspreet can have the baby and receive treatment for her recurring fever, however, without a deferment she could lose her student place and risk having her visa cancelled, besides being banned from returning for three years. Jaspreet’s college has since confirmed a deferment of nine days and Jaspreet was expected to resume classes by 28/09. At the time this report was written, the matter was still under dispute.
“There are many stories of discontent amongst the International student population here in Australia. Countless overseas students are being fleeced by offshore agents and unscrupulous local private college operators Students are commonly tricked and ripped off. Some are placed in courses they did not enrol for, and threatened with deportation if they refuse to pay extra money or pay in advance,” informed Tess Lawrence, journalist and advocate who recently joined OSSNA as a consultant.
OSSNA was incorporated in May this year,
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Rob and Tess shared their concerns about several issues that they have come across. According to them, besides shonky operators the key issues for international students include concerns about social inclusion, safety and accommodation. Vitoria holds the record for hot-bedding, an arrangement where students live and share a house, sleeping in the one bed on a rotational basis. A place in St Albans was reported to have 38 students using the same facilities. The place has since been closed down.
Safety is another concern, according to Robert; there are still colleges that will not pass muster if they were scrutinized carefully for their emergency/evacuation procedures. These colleges are in breach of section 9B, which is a regulation in place by the Government to ensure safety of the premises.
“Some students I spoke to did not even know what a fire drill was, leave alone having participated in one,” said Tess. “Some thought I was talking about a Black and Decker drill,” said Rob.
Then there is the issue of social inclusion. Many students feel isolated without a support network. Students come here with expectations that are not always met. Jobs are not easy to come by, there are several instances where they are underpaid or overworked.
Robert recounts an incident of a student from Punjab who worked in a restaurant owned
From 3rd October, the first of the many significant changes to the M1 comes online along the West Gate Freeway, between the West Gate Bridge and the tunnels:
The eastbound on-ramp from Montague Street to the West Gate Freeway re-opens.
The new westbound on-ramp from Kings Way to the West Gate Freeway and the Bolte Bridge opens.
The new westbound ramp from the West Gate Freeway to the Bolte Bridge opens.
The new entry point from City Road to the on-ramp from Kings Way to the Burnley Tunnel opens.
These new entry and exit ramps will separate traffic depending on its destination, and provide you with a For everyone to get the full benefit of these changes, you will need to alter the way you drive. Plan your journey, choose your lane early and look for the new signs to direct you to your exit lane. The $1.39 billion M1 upgrade is starting to take shape, but there is still more work to be done. It’s all part of the Victorian Government’s ongoing Transport Plan to ease congestion and provide a safer, more reliable journey for Melburnians moving forward.
To find out more visit m1upgrade.com.au
programs of about 41 colleges, not to be critical of them but instead, to make sure every aspect is covered appropriately. We don’t expect colleges to become ‘nanny colleges’ but there are still 10% of colleges who are not doing a lot of things to enhance the student’s experience. The other 90% are fine, however, these irresponsible 10% are letting the whole lot down,” claimed Rob
OSSNA’s operations are largely voluntary according to Rob. OSSNA charges a one-off membership fee of 250 dollars or a fee of $50 for online support only. According to its website, OSSNA offers a range of services from immigration advice to helping students switch courses and colleges, a job placement network and support to address financial difficulties and emergencies.
“At OSSNA we want to promote all that is good about Australian Education and Training. It’s all about a fair go for everyone,” said Rob Palmer. “I walk the students through just as a friend not as an agent, nor as a lawyer. We don’t offer legal advice at OSSNA. We inform students about their rights and make sure they know that rights come with responsibilities” he said.
As an independent organisation OSSNA is perfectly positioned as an unbiased intermediary to serve the international student community. Hopefully they will be unbound by any political or commercial agenda and be as effective as they claim.
The Victorian Sikh Association, in partnership with Master Darshan Singh from Sikh Welfare Council hosted the visit of Premier John Brumby to the Gurudwara Sahib Blackburn recently. It was reportedly the first ever visit by a Victorian Premier to the Sikh Temple in Blackburn. The Blackburn Gurudwara is an iconic and much revered place of religious and social significance for the Sikh Community in Melbourne.
The Premiere’s visit was much publicized and several hundred people from the community attended the event. Also present were Tim Singh Lawrence, from the Darebin ward, Tony Robinson MP, member for Mitcham, Bob Stensholt MP, member for Burwood, Lyn Gunter, Mayor Murrindindi Shire Council and Stephen Dimopoulos, Commissioner from the VMC.
The Premier announced that the State Government will contribute $50,000 towards integration initiatives and projects launched by VSA. Harvin Dhillon, President of VSA thanked the Premiere for his concern for the community. He said that VSA will provide more details of the projects and initiatives once the formalities have been completed.
In relation to the recent spate of attacks on Indian students Premiere Brumby assured everyone that strong measures are being taken by the Victorian Government to address the issue. Addressing the packed sangat Premiere Brumby said “We have
had some challenges with some recent incidences, those incidences are obviously regrettable, they are taken very seriously by me and by Victoria Police,” he said. “Any racist attack, just one in one year is one too many. So I’ll get that message out.” He assured everyone that Melbourne is a safe
The Sikh Society of Australia (SSA) took a wonderful trip down memory lane on September 12, courtesy of the ‘ Mahender Kapoor’ musical evening. The event paid homage to the talented, powerful and popular playback singer on his first death anniversary, and commemorated his profound contribution to the world of Hindi and Punjabi music. The function also marked the 10th anniversary of the SSA, and was attended by an audience of nearly 300.The chief guest of the evening was Mr Jagdeep Singh Shergill, Commissioner, Victorian Multicultural Commission. The talented and much admired singers of the evening were Gurmit Sahni, Inderjit Jasal, Dr Parminder Mundae, Aarti Chhabbra and Inderjeet Singh. The musical sojourn was marked by the soulful rendition of chart topping solo numbers of Mahender Kapoor like the evergreen “Hey, neele gagan ke tale’ and “Na mooh chhupa key jeeyo” from the film Humraaz. His distinctive patriotic songs like “Hai preet jahan ki reet sada” from the film Purab Aur Paschim were amongst the many others from his repertoire. The evocative singing of the Melbourne-based singers had the audience asking for more. Duets of the singer like “Dil ki ye aarzoo thi koi dilruba mile” from the film Nikaah, “Jiskey sapney humen roz aate rahe” from the film Geet and “Dil karta o yaara dildaara mera” from the film Aadmi Aur Insaan were stirring and enthralled the crowd. Some of his popular Punjabi songs were also presented. Equally touching was a self-composed devotional song rendered by Navtej at the start of the proceedings. Dance group Bollywood
Beats performed a medley of spirited dances choreographed to some foot-tapping contemporary Hindi film songs. Mr Inderjit Jasal, on behalf of The Sikh Society of Australia, briefed the audience about the activities of the society and thanked all the sponsors, artists, musicians and volunteers who worked hard to make the event a success. The show was capably hosted by Mrs Dilpreet Jaswal, cultural coordinator of the Society. The finale was marked by a lucky draw and tokens of appreciation were presented to the performers by the management committee. The appetizing dinner that followed the musical treat, was enjoyed by all.
Kudos to The Sikh Society of Australia for hosting such a melodic and memorable evening.
Madhuchanda Das
place to be.
The Premiere’s visit also saw the official launch of Sri Guru Granth Sahibji Academy that was initiated in April This year. The Premiere visited the training course and spoke briefly to the students of the Academy. He was also briefed
about the Sikh Helping Sikhs (SHS) and Save Our Sikhs (SOS) projects. The Premiere enthusiastically took part in the proceedings of the regular Sunday program at the Gurudwara. He did not hesitate to bow before the Holy granth and eat the langar along with his delegates.
In pursuance of the tradition and objective of promoting the Hindi language in Australia, the Indian community in Hindi Diwas”, a declaration of the Govt of India, on September 20 at Cinnamon Club in Cheltenham. The chief guest of the afternoon was Mr. Anil Gupta, ViceConsul (Indian High Commission) along with special guests Dr. Dinesh Srivastava and Mrs. Manjeet Theti.
The room was packed to full capacity with audiences from different walks of life expressing their support for their national language. It’s momentous that what binds all of them together is the love of their language, heritage and culture and the desire to further its cause. Hindi Niketan provides the platform to encourage this.
In his welcome speech, Dr. Sharad Gupta, Program Coordinator congratulated everyone on keeping the tradition of Indian standard time alive, considering that the function didn’t start until just before midday.
The cultural show began with a mix of people different generations putting up performances, including Hindi poem recitals by renowned poets like Harihar Jha, Rejendra Chopra and Subhash Sharma. They were also honoured with awards for the significant contribution they have made to the promotion of Hindi in Australia. Younger participants Meenal and Bhavesh Joshi made the crowd laugh uncontrollably with their jokes and the youngest participant at 4 years recited two verses in Hindi, proving that one is never too young to begin…
In an awards ceremony, recognition was given to the true stars of the day,
VCE students who took Hindi as their language and passed with impressive scores, setting a high benchmark for their younger siblings and fellow mates. Ch. Samsher Singh, President of Hindu Niketan facilitated these bright “Hindi “stars with a trophy, certificate and a cash prize, presented to them by their guru, Mrs. Theti!
“I am very excited and feel privileged that I am being facilitated in a forum like this. It makes me feel that all the effort and hard work was worth it,” said Janki Trivedi, currently a Melbourne University student who scored 49/50. Another award winner, Sakshi Singh from Ballarat Grammar said “There is no other language as expressive and sweet as Hindi. I feel great to be acknowledged by my community and elders in such a forum, it makes it more than an academic achievement! None of my other mates have had such an opportunity and experience.”
The event certainly made me proud to be a Hindi-speaking Indian.
Pinky BhatiaThe entry, The Golden Athlete Manpreet Kaur Singh has been selected as a finalist in the 2009 United Nations Association of Australia Media Peace Awards, under the category Promotion of Positive Images of the Older Person. The feature was broadcast on SBS Radio’s Punjabi program in March this year, showcasing the achievements of 77-year old Melburnian, Harbhajan Singh Aulakh, who won six gold medals at the Australian Masters Games held in the year. He is now a strong contender at the World Masters Games to be held in Sydney from October 9 onwards.
The UNAA (Vic) received a record number of nominations this year and the overall standard of entries was exceptionally high. It is open to all platforms of media – print, television, radio and online, and only three entries are chosen as finalists under various categories. Manpreet needs to be congratulated for her effort in raising awareness and highlighting social justice and humanitarian issues within the community.
This is the third time that Manpreet has been nominated as a finalist for the UN Media Peace Awards. Her last two nominations include one in 2001, also for Promotion of Positive Images of the Older Person,
PBS FM radio station has launched a groundbreaking new program Mumbai Masala, Melbourne’s first ever radio show dedicated to the latest Bollywood, Bhangra and Indian influenced beats. With a large non-Indian listener base, this reflects the growing level of interest in South Asian music in recent years, not just in Australia but worldwide. The show is hosted by DJ Richi Madan on Monday evenings from 7pm-8pm (EST). Listeners anywhere in the world can listen online at www.pbsfm. org.au (including previous shows). In Melbourne, you can also tune in live on 106.7 PBS FM.
“Mumbai Masala is all about the fusion that’s taking place in today’s Indian music.” says Richi Madan. “We’re bringing people of all backgrounds together. These sensational beats are increasingly popular and have a cross-cultural, global appeal.”
“One of the reasons for this is the fusion of east and west, with artists like Panjabi MC and Rishi Rich blending club grooves, R&B and hip hop with traditional sounds. We have the Asian underground movement with Dhol Foundation, DJ Swami and co. mixing breakbeat and electronica. This is also reflected in today’s Bollywood soundtracks which are typically a cocktail of many different styles of music.”
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The Grand Final nostalgia may be over, but there were fireworks at Footscray’s Whitten Oval, home to the Western Bulldogs Football Club on October 3. Diwali, the Festival of Light was celebrated amidst bangs and whistles, as Victorians from all backgrounds joined together in a celebration of food, music and dance.
Diwali in the West”, organized by the Hon. Marsha Thomson, Member for Footscray, was a free event open to the whole community, and offered people the chance to experience the sounds, tastes and colours that are synonymous with Bollywood. Acting Premier Rob Hulls and Member for Footscray Marsha Thompson were among thousands to join in the celebrations. People from diverse backgrounds, ethnicity and cultures came along with their family and friends to experience and participate in the day long event. The main attractions were: a Cricket Victoria sponsored match with Merv Hughes as the host, Bollywood songs and dances, full desi band orchestra, traditional Indian dance demonstrations, a fashion parade featuring the current Miss India Australia Bollywood, Miss Rima Das and Bollywood Talent Melbourne 2009 talent quest. Activities like sari tying demonstrations, henna painting and Indian fashion and merchandise available to purchase, sampling of traditional Indian savouries and snacks, Indian food and traditional Diwali sweets, were all enjoyed. An entertainment segment was hosted by award-winning actor and comedian William McInnes and talented filmmaker
of Indian heritage Kylie Boltin, who were also MCs for the day. The fireworks display at sunset was breathtaking, with ‘Happy Diwali 2009’ in bright colours lighting up the darkening Victorian sky.
The event was one big mela (fair)”. The variety of activities ensured that there was something for everyone, as the active participants danced to box office hits and engaged with the performers. The more passive ones browsed through different stalls to purchase their piece of Diwali memorabilia or taste traditional sweets and savouries in keeping with the festive mood.
Melbourne lived up to it’s “four seasons in a day” reputation as the day started out
well with sunshine and blue skies, followed by a mild and crisp afternoon and a windy and cool evening. But that cannot be said for the energy and spirit of the crowd, it was exactly the opposite. As the crowd starting building up by late afternoon and evening, the Oval pulsated with the sounds of Bhangra beats. The gyrating and energetic dance movements to Bollywood tunes, the fragrance of the garam masala in piping hot chole simmering in food stalls, the vibrancy and colour of traditional Indian clothes added to the atmosphere.
Namrata Sharma from Hoppers Crossing attended the show with family and friends. “This is one of the best Saturdays I have
had. I can see people in traditional clothes around enjoying as much as we are, the variety in food and merchandise is great and I am happy that there are Australian guests as well. It’s nice to see that they are enjoying Indian culture as much as we assimilate and participate in the appreciation of theirs,” she said.
Vihang Nikalje from The Shiamak Davar’s Institute for the Performing Arts (SDIPA) said, “This is very different to the performances we have done in the past. This event has been a platform for us to share some part of our heritage and values with our fellow-Victorians. The audience has been enthusiastic and our students, both children and adults, did a wonderful job and we are proud of them.”
Diwali in the West has made a great beginning. Said Acting Premier Rob Hulls, “Diwali festival is a wonderful example of how Victorian communities share traditions, cultures and friendships to make the State a vibrant multicultural society.” He added, “At a time when Indian students are feeling threatened by anti-social elements in Australian society, this event is a strong example of how celebrations and festivals work to break down barriers, promote cultural harmony, and contribute to the life and expression of our multicultural community.”
I sincerely hope that goddess Laxmi will bless all of us with wealth and prosperity, and that good will triumph over evil, and light over darkness throughout our lives –Happy Diwali!
Pinky BhatiaAround 180 members of Northern Region Indian Seniors’ Association (NRISA) enjoyed its Annual 3-Generation celebrations at the City Hall in Preston recently.
Opening the evening, MC Dr. Devaki Monani introduced Professor Santosh Kumar, NRISA President, who warmly welcomed members and invited guests and briefly spoke of NRISA’s inception in January 2008. President Kumar stated that the 3-Generation concept serves to inform and unite the community and has been quite a success story. He thanked the children, parents and grandparents for their efforts, which made such gatherings possible. The program was deliberately scheduled to begin early, ending at 7:30 pm, in consideration of bedtime for both, babies and seniors.
The theme of the event was ‘One For All and All For One’ which defines into meeting, intermingling and interacting, so that the 3-Generations of NRISA extended families may experience fun and frolic.
Informal celebrations that lasted over an hour included NRISA seniors performing Bollywood dances, personifications and singsongs such as ‘Chak-de, India’; the applause it galvanised was heard even outside the hall, as members and families showed their appreciation. Ashoka Roy presented a magic show, which resulted in amazed excitement from children to seniors.
Distinguished guests for the evening were the City of Darebin Mayor Cr. Diana Asmar, Consul General of India Ms. Anita Nayar, and Victorian Multicultural
Commission Chairperson Mr. George Lekakis. Mayor Asmar praised the thriving multicultural community in Darebin that respects other cultures and lives in total harmony, and pledged to support the causes of the Indians in the city, especially those of seniors. Ms. Anita Nayar’s presence was much appreciated, although she was visibly under the weather. Chairperson Lekakis praised the sustained efforts towards harmony observed by the multinational community of Victoria, and praised the achievements and contributions made by Australians of Indian origin, to help improve Victoria in general.
In his valedictory speech, Secretary Rajender Chopra thanked the invited guests, members and their families for their presence and insisted the 21st century seniors are by no means a lazy bunch, but vibrant go-getters. He also stated that NRISA functions take place at the Northcote Seniors’ Hall, 18-A Bent Street, Northcote, every third Sunday of the month. In addition, monthly functions and weekly exercises intended to keep one’s mind, body and spirit well and healthy, are also scheduled. The program ended with a Masti Dhamaka dance by attendees of all ages. NRISA Community Service awards were presented to the invited guests and also to Mr. Lalit Unadkat and Mr. Parag Mody for their undying services to the community.
A delicious 3-course dinner was served, catered for by Mannat Indian Catering Services.
The Kingston Indian Senior Citizens Association (KISCA) cancelled their
September 09 meet for unspecified reasons. For more information, please contact President Manju Narain on 8787 5860
Indian Senior Citizens Association (ISCA) in their AGM elected new Committee Members. They are Dr. Suresh Sharma, Vice President, replacing Mrs. Krishna Arora. Mrs. Sushma Gupta, Secretary, replacing Mr. Sandy San of 15 year standing, and Dr. Kaushal Kishore Srivastava, Member, replacing Mrs. Shakun Agarwal.
ISCA will celebrate Diwali on October 24 at their Mt. Waverley Youth Centre from 11 am. For more information, please contact President Prem Phakey on 9560 9607
Fijian Indian Senior Citizens Association (FISCA) will celebrate Diwali in the Bayswater Primary School on October October from 11 am to 2 pm. For more information, please contact President Jerry Jeraj on 9849 1023.
In the Indian Senior Citizens Forum meeting, a group of Gujrati members performed the dandya dances on taped music, and members and families sang songs and shared jokes. Mr. Purushottam Rawail spoke on the significance of Durga Pooja. Members brought so much halwa, poori and other home-made comestables, that food had to be packed and taken home.
Om Music Group with its own orchestra and volunteers, entertained members as did Guru Deepika Shome and the music students of her school. The Forum will celebrate Diwali on October 24. For more information, please contact Mr. Srikrishen Auplish on 9561 1878.
George Thakur
Moonee Valley Diwali celebration
12 October, 7.30pm, Clocktower Centre, 750 Mt Alexander Road, Moonee Ponds. Diwali celebration and the launch of colour design and images projected on the clockwork tower centre. The Diwali projection can be seen from 12-17 October between 8pm and 12am. For more information call Council on 9242 8888.
Mehfil Night
16 October, 8-10pm, at the Coburg Library Hall , Cnr: Luisa and Victoria street, Coburg. Bring your karaoke players and join in the fun. Live keyboard support too. Free entry, plenty of parking. Call Dr.Saratchandran on 9366 5444 for more details.
ISCF Diwali celebrations
24 October, 2-4pm, at Community Centre, Shirdi sai Sansthan,32, Halley Ave.,Camberwell, Vic.3124 Melbourne (Melway 60 B5). Indian Senior Citizens Forum celebrates Diwali. Free event, all are invited. Light refreshments will be served. Monthly meetings are held on fourth Saturday of every month. Contact: Seema 9551 1067; Patel 9572 4960; Auplish 9561 1878 or e-mail: auplishsk@yahoo.com.au
International Students Advice Clinic Wednesdays from 6–8pm at the Western Suburbs Legal Service, 30 Hall St, Newport. The Western Suburbs Legal Service in conjunction with community partners has established a new drop-in advice clinic for international students, providing advice and referrals on a variety of topics. Volunteers who speak Hindi, Urdu, Punjabi and Tamil are available. A Student Rights Officer will assist with student rights issues. No appointment required. Call 9391 2244 for more information.
rashant Ramachandran’s Mrudanga
Arangetram was held at the Performing Arts Centre, Rowville Secondary College recently. He is a sishya of guru Sridhar Chari of the Laya Vidya Centre for percussion in Melbourne.
Prashant has been a regular performer at several Melbourne Carnatic music events, so his arangetram was an event that was look forward to by the music community. He did not disappoint: Prashant got through the three hour concert with consummate ease, without putting a foot (or finger) wrong. The arangetram was crisp and well presented, with a selection of kritis that included all the important talams that practitioners of mrudangam need to master.
Vocalist Kasturi Rangan - and Mysore Srikanth on the violin - travelled from India for the occasion, and their melodious music presented Prashant with ample opportunities to shine and demonstrate his prowess on the mrudangam. The tani avarttanam – the most important solo segment - followed the Todi raga kriti Dasarathi Nee, and got the full classical treatment from Prashant. He waved patterns of every combination, tempo and complexity, holding the audience in thrall for the entire half hour. The RagamTanam-Pallavi was in Brindavana Saranga and Kanda Triputa talam, - and Kasturi Rangan gave it the full monty: Prashant was equal to all the percussion challenges that were thrown at him. He showed his mettle in his excellent accompaniment of the slow melody - the Ahiri kriti Maayamma, as well the quicker paced ones. A delightful debut performance overall.
Bharatalaya Academy’s Annual Concert was held at the Darebin Arts Centre over 2 days on September 26 and 27. This was the Academy’s 29th Annual Concert, and in more than 3 decades of its existence, it has trained hundreds of dancers and held 108 arangetrams, and no major Indian cultural event is complete without its dancers.
Over two days, several Bharatanatyam and Odissi dances were presented, with solo items from recent arangetram graduates.
Even the very young and novice students acquitted themselves well and it is to the school’s credit that they perform wellchoreographed items that are more than mere adavu routines. The Ashta Lakshmi number by the senior students – performed on both days -with sanchari bhavas depicting the churning of the ocean with the Mandara mountain – was a masterpiece of both choreography and performance – and music.
Over 80 students participated in the event,
of a Mother’s Group this year, which is an older group of women- most of them mothers – who have been learning the art form for some time.
Vocal was by Ahilan, Murali Kumar and his student Anita Das on the violin, Balasri Rasiah and his son Hariharan Balasri on the mrudangam; with Nattuvangam by Chandrabhanu, with help from Ambika Docherty and Nisha Leela Sinha Roy. Chitra Sudarshan
India aims at energy partnership with US on Manmohan Singh visit WITH THE US showing a better appreciation of India’s position on climate change, New Delhi hopes to have in place an energy partnership when Prime Minister Manmohan Singh comes on a state visit in November.
The ultimate objective is to “have some articulation and finalisation of institutional partnership in the field of energy, environment and climate change”, Minister of State for Environment and Forests Jairam Ramesh said winding up his visit to the US.
“We are hoping that between now and November, we would be in a position to give operational content to many of these ideas. It would be reflected suitably in some statement after the two heads of state meet in November,” he said.
“India is a responsible player wanting a fair and equitable (climate change) agreement and prepared to play a leadership role in this regard, given its unique position in world affairs,” said Ramesh noting that “in the last month and a half, there has been a noticeable shift in narrative as far as India is concerned”.
“We have a long way to go,” he said. But “The fact that the US is saying emission cuts is not the only way for countries like India to reflect their domestic obligations internationally is a big step forward.” The United States’ readiness to appreciate India’s actions taken unilaterally and voluntarily as part of a domestic legislative agenda is also a better appreciation of that today than may be a couple of months ago, he said.
“We have to take forward this dialogue. We will be in close touch with our American counterparts,” he said adding: “Today we have a better understanding of what the US is doing and certainly the US has a better understanding of what we are doing.”
Ramesh, who met US officials on climate change and several influential lawmakers, said: “The important thing is change in perception of India” in the US. During his visit to New York and Washington, Ramesh had two rounds of discussions with Todd Stern, special US envoy for climate change. He also met Energy Secretary Steven Chu, besides a number of lawmakers - John Kerry, chairman of Senate Foreign Relations Committee and Congressmen Edward Markey and Jim McDermott.
Casual Position ($28.98 per hour)
A radio story: Established in June 1975 and now the world’s most linguistically diverse radio network, SBS Radio currently broadcasts in 68 languages across Australia and globally online.
SBS’s Audio and Language Content Division is looking for casual relief Producers for the Gujarati Language Program.
As part of a team, you’ll be involved in creating and broadcasting audio content for the Gujarati-speaking community. You’ll be required to research, write, produce, sub-edit, translate and present audio content on radio and online.
You’ll need to be proficient in written and spoken Gujarati and English (successful applicants will be required to pass a language assessment). A background in journalism and broadcasting is preferred. These positions involve rostered shift work and successful candidates must be able to undertake shift work (which may involve evening and weekend work).
We’re not offering permanent positions, just casual relief work. For more information and to apply visit www.sbs.com.au/jobs. Applications addressing the Selection Criteria must be lodged on the SBS website by 5pm on 27 October 2009.
sbs.com.au/jobs
If a colour could ever be called feminine, it would be pink. It can be subtle in roses, bold in magenta, soft and cuddly in baby clothes or simply stunning in cerise. Pink is also the colour of support, reassurance and hope for countless women suffering from Breast Cancer. So let’s a celebrate Pink October!
CHITRA SUDARSHAN reviews two books with different themes, which chronicle the apex of two young lives
The focus this month in our book column is on a biography and an autobiography: the former by a renowned American biographer David Leavitt, and the latter an autobiography by the British-Indian cricketer Monty Panesar. The life of the extraordinarily gifted and precocious Indian mathematician of the twentieth century Srinivasa Ramanujan is the stuff of legends, and has attracted the attention of several biographers. The latest, by the American David Leavitt, focuses on the strange friendship between this young Indian and G H Hardy, who was already considered one of the greatest mathematicians of his time and was teaching at Cambridge. Ramanujan was a self-taught mathematical prodigy who had been working as a clerk in Madras, and who would turn out to be one of the great mathematical minds of the twentieth century - before dying at the very young age of 37 in 1920.
The book begins with Hardy receiving a nine-page letter filled with prime number theorems from S. Ramanujan, a
young accounts clerk in Madras in 1913. Intrigued, Hardy consults his colleague and collaborator, J.E. Littlewood and the two soon decide that Ramanujan is a mathematical genius and that he should be brought to Cambridge to work with them. Hardy recruits the young, eager don, Eric Neville, and his wife, Alice, to travel to India and expedite Ramanujan’s arrival. Although ultimately the move would prove disastrous for the young Indian clerk, the men set to work on proving the Riemann Hypothesis, one of mathematics’ great unsolved problems.
The novel is based on the remarkable true story of their friendship, spans several decades and continents, and is populated with luminaries such as D H Lawrence, Bertrand Russell, Lytton Strachey and Wittgenstein. World War I looms, Ramanujan is plagued by ailments and obstacles – yet he comes to renown as the “Hindu Calculator”. Leavitt takes this amazing slice of history and builds it into a riveting story in The Indian Clerk: he had said elsewhere that the book was 70% truth and 30% imagination. Mathematicians will relish this book, but the author renders complex mathematics in a clear and lucid manner that non-mathematicians would not find it daunting. In the end, the focus is on the perennial human quest for knowledge, and the quest for the self: and how the two are often intertwined.
Monty’s Turn is the autobiography of Monty Panesar (written with Richard Hobson), who shot to fame as the electrifying spin bowler in the England cricket team –hard though it is to believe only - in 2006. Within a few years he has achieved a cult status and has been feted as the best spin bowler to emerge from Britain in the last 30 years. One might ask if three years in the spotlight is enough reason to write an autobiography: I suppose the answer is that if one is going to publish an autobiography, it might as well be done at the height of one’s fame rather than during the sunset of one’s career. This way, there is a good chance of
the book selling well and eliciting interest. Cricket lovers will lap up what the book has to offer, as it is full of anecdotes from the young cricketer’s short but interesting life in test and one-day cricket, especially his rise to fame through his dedicated application of his talent; tours of India, Australia and New Zealand; his meetings with cricket’s greats who were once his childhood heroes. Others will find in it an example of how a first generation young Sikh has been able to achieve success in the UK by dint of hard work and perseverance. Whatever it is the reader is looking for, there is something in there for everyone.
Others will find in it an example of how a first generation young Sikh has been able to achieve success in the UK by dint of hard work and perseverance
CHITRA SUDARSHAN reviews two books with different themes, which chronicle the apex of two young lives
The focus this month in our book column is on a biography and an autobiography: the former by a renowned American biographer David Leavitt, and the latter an autobiography by the British-Indian cricketer Monty Panesar. The life of the extraordinarily gifted and precocious Indian mathematician of the twentieth century Srinivasa Ramanujan is the stuff of legends, and has attracted the attention of several biographers. The latest, by the American David Leavitt, focuses on the strange friendship between this young Indian and G H Hardy, who was already considered one of the greatest mathematicians of his time and was teaching at Cambridge. Ramanujan was a self-taught mathematical prodigy who had been working as a clerk in Madras, and who would turn out to be one of the great mathematical minds of the twentieth century - before dying at the very young age of 37 in 1920.
The book begins with Hardy receiving a nine-page letter filled with prime number theorems from S. Ramanujan, a
young accounts clerk in Madras in 1913. Intrigued, Hardy consults his colleague and collaborator, J.E. Littlewood and the two soon decide that Ramanujan is a mathematical genius and that he should be brought to Cambridge to work with them. Hardy recruits the young, eager don, Eric Neville, and his wife, Alice, to travel to India and expedite Ramanujan’s arrival. Although ultimately the move would prove disastrous for the young Indian clerk, the men set to work on proving the Riemann Hypothesis, one of mathematics’ great unsolved problems.
The novel is based on the remarkable true story of their friendship, spans several decades and continents, and is populated with luminaries such as D H Lawrence, Bertrand Russell, Lytton Strachey and Wittgenstein. World War I looms, Ramanujan is plagued by ailments and obstacles – yet he comes to renown as the “Hindu Calculator”. Leavitt takes this amazing slice of history and builds it into a riveting story in The Indian Clerk: he had said elsewhere that the book was 70% truth and 30% imagination. Mathematicians will relish this book, but the author renders complex mathematics in a clear and lucid manner that non-mathematicians would not find it daunting. In the end, the focus is on the perennial human quest for knowledge, and the quest for the self: and how the two are often intertwined.
Monty’s Turn is the autobiography of Monty Panesar (written with Richard Hobson), who shot to fame as the electrifying spin bowler in the England cricket team –hard though it is to believe only - in 2006. Within a few years he has achieved a cult status and has been feted as the best spin bowler to emerge from Britain in the last 30 years. One might ask if three years in the spotlight is enough reason to write an autobiography: I suppose the answer is that if one is going to publish an autobiography, it might as well be done at the height of one’s fame rather than during the sunset of one’s career. This way, there is a good chance of
the book selling well and eliciting interest. Cricket lovers will lap up what the book has to offer, as it is full of anecdotes from the young cricketer’s short but interesting life in test and one-day cricket, especially his rise to fame through his dedicated application of his talent; tours of India, Australia and New Zealand; his meetings with cricket’s greats who were once his childhood heroes. Others will find in it an example of how a first generation young Sikh has been able to achieve success in the UK by dint of hard work and perseverance. Whatever it is the reader is looking for, there is something in there for everyone.
Others will find in it an example of how a first generation young Sikh has been able to achieve success in the UK by dint of hard work and perseverance
SHWETA SIROHI GUPTA
suggests cool ideas to pep you up this Diwali, to give the festival an off-beat and fun flavour
Diwali is on the weekend this year, which gives you some more time to indulge in the festive spirit. Although Diwali rituals were modest in the past, the festival is now celebrated in manifold contemporary ways. Not just in Indian, but the diaspora across the globe indulge in the merriment of the season, keeping the spirit of Diwali alive and kicking. And in our fast paced lived, it is these festivals that give us a reason to spend quality time with loved ones and create fond memories which we will cherish for life. Here are fun ideas to help you get into the festive groove. These concepts have been tried, tested and loved, so go on, enjoy a bit of adventuring this Diwali.
Take a moment to think… aren’t there loads of things you wanted to share with your family and friends back in India? No matter how often you catch up on the phone or internet… wo baat nahi hoti! How about grabbing the ‘old is gold’ idea of expressing your feelings by putting pen to paper? Haven’t done that in a long while? Use Diwali as an opportunity (read excuse!) to send them your wishes with special hand-crafted letters. To commemorate the festival, choose a decorative letterhead and get going. Surprise your loved ones!
Mehendi mania
Mehendi is the perfect accessory you can wear to flaunt the festival spirit, that’s exuding from your soul! The art is an ancient one that goes back centuries, yet it is also one of the trendiest. Try this breathtaking design at home and mesmerize everyone. To ensure that the mehendi is rich and dark, adopt proven techniques like applying lemon and sugar, or apply Tiger balm or Vicks Vapourub, as they are known for their heating properties. Once the mehendi dries up, scrub it off with coconut oil and keep your hands dry for at least 24 hours. Show off girls, it’s Diwali!
Looking for the perfect theme for your Diwali party? Well, sweets are passé, anyone can serve them. One ‘beyondthe-box’ idea is to organize a musical evening and treat your guests with festive songs prepared by you and your partner, encouraging them to join in. Print the songs so that everyone has the lyrics handy and you’ll be surprised at your guests’ enthusiasm to participate, maybe after a few false notes! You don’t have to sound like a pro to entertain; your guests will love your authentic singing…if nothing else, it will give them a reason to laugh. Entertainment at its best!
This Diwali, create a beautiful rangoli to welcome Goddess Lakshmi in your home. Go wild with colored powders, ground chalk, paint, or even try natural material from your kitchen shelf like colored rice, turmeric, ground chili, lentils, or flowers from your garden. Don’t worry about a fancy design, if you are a beginner, use a design stencil or try geometrical patterns as they are easier to implement. Mesmerize everyone!
Thinking of a fabulous Indian-style makeover for your home this Diwali, but can’t afford to spend thousands? How about grabbing your colour palette and bringing out the artist in you? Create something artistic to adorn your walls, which will give them a face lift and you a great sense of pride, in your ability to be unique and individualistic. Bull’s eye!
The festive season is all about dressing up and making everything look beautiful and glittering, including you. After all, it is the festival of light! Most of us shy away from getting all decked up as we’re away from the festive environment of India. We celebrate in our cozy homes with controlled dhoom-dhamaka! But wake up girls, this is the best justification to shake the dust off your traditional wardrobe and get into your most sparkling outfit. Whether sarees or salwars, mix n match with jewellery and double the fun by inviting girlfriends over for a little get-together. Nothing can be more fun for us girls than decking ourselves in our best attire and make-up. Spice up the occasion by putting up a fashion show for your partners, the catwalk is as much fun for those on it, as for those watching. ‘D’ is for divas and ‘D’ is for Diwali…way to go!
The festive season is party time, says PRIYA DHINGRA, but homoeopathy can help tackle the effects of overindulgence
Believe it or not, its Diwali time again. A time to relax and catch up with friends and family. If you are a typically hospitable Indian, that means food, food, food and yet more food. And if you imbibe, plenty of drink too. For most of us that means parties, dinners, late night eating, lots of rich food, drinking, nuts, nibbles, desserts, chocolate and of course, mithai. Basically it’s all about total overindulgence, in all senses of the word.
Along with our Greek and Italian friends, never let it be said that any self-respecting Indian family even comes close to running out of food. In fact, there is usually enough left over for several days, for the entire family and several friends! Sounds familiar?
I’m sure you know what I am talking about!
With the lack of normal routine during Diwali, it is quite likely that you will not be as careful with your dietary intake, especially those additional carbohydrates and sugar, and are drinking less water than normal. Exercise levels have probably dropped off too. It can be quite an exhausting time with all the preparation and socializing. At the end of it all, many are left worn out and feeling somewhat acidic,
bloated, and a bit nauseous, with rather more than a few extra kilos. But, there is much that can be done to help you using natural remedies such as homoeopathy, Australian Bush Flower and Bach Flower remedies
Homoeopathy and flower remedies can help in dealing with
l Acidity and indigestion
l Pain in liver/gall bladder area or referred pain in the shoulder blade area
l Bloating, heaviness, gas and wind
l Picking up the functioning of glands such as pancreas, thyroid, adrenals which is invaluable in balancing blood sugar levels, fighting exhaustion
l Stress
What is the impact of overindulgence on the body?
Overindulgence impacts on your digestive system, gallbladder, liver, blood sugar balance and blood pressure.
The higher than normal intake of rich, heavier, fattier foods and alcohol all have probably the biggest affect on the liver. This is because the liver is largely responsible for digestion of fatty foods, as it produces bile and detoxification of any toxic substances we ingest, including alcohol and medicines.
In diets where there is over-consumption of fatty foods, sugars and refined carbohydrates, and chemical overloads such as alcohol and medicinal drugs, the liver has to work hard. While the strain on your liver may not show up in a blood test, you may notice some of the following symptoms that
indicate a liver/gall bladder under stress
l Find fried foods heavy and hard to digest
l Feel uneasy after eating rich foods such as cream, ice-cream, full fat products
l Find meat, especially red meat heavy and hard to digest
l Feel nausea after eating
l Suffer from feeling of uneasiness/ heaviness after eating
l Feel uncomfortable/heavy after alcohol or coffee
l Dull, aching pain in or around one shoulder blade or between the shoulder blades
If these types of early indicators of liver strain are left unattended, they may lead to further problems of ‘fatty’ liver and gallbladder/gallstones.
If you notice some or all of these things, talk with your homoeopath who will advise you on suitable ways to improve the functioning of your liver/gall bladder. Using homoeopathic remedies will improve liver function and as the remedies are natural, they do not cause any detoxification load on the liver.
Indians and diabetes
As Indians have one of the highest incidences of diabetes and high blood pressure in the world, we should be mindful of getting a regular check up done and taking precautions to avoid the condition. The main precautions are correct diet and regular exercise. Talk with your doctor about this. If your blood sugar level is
on the higher side and you have a family history of diabetes, now is an excellent time to talk with your homoeopath about how to improve your lifestyle. There are natural treatments available which are effective, safe and side-effect free.
Self Help
l Apart from everything else it is a good idea to
l Increase exercise. Start gently if you are not used to it. Apart from trimming up, you will feel healthier and fitter. It also helps with increasing bone and muscle strength, lowering blood pressure, reducing ‘bad’ cholesterol and increasing ‘good’, balancing blood sugar, sleeping better
l Watch your diet. Become aware of the glycaemic index (GI) of foods
l Drink more water: aim for 30ml per kg of body weight. So for a body weight of 67kg that means 2litres of water per day. This does not include tea, coffee, juice or soft drinks. This will get hydration levels back to normal and help to flush out toxins.
Lose those few extra kilos
Give your digestive system a break
Eat lighter foods: more fruit, vegetables and salad and less fried foods, sweet foods, meat and junk foods...
Start looking after yourself
If you have been meaning to get your blood sugar, cholesterol and other medical checks done, remember: there is no time like the present.
Please note if symptoms persist please see your doctor
The essence of our Indian heritage comes alive through our festivals, says MADHUCHANDA DAS, while urging us to celebrate them with deserving enthusiasm
It’s that time of the year when, no matter which corner of the world you inhabit, the Indian in you starts craving for the home and the hearth… Yes, the festive season’s here and that unmistakable scent of misty autumn breeze blowing across the homeland around now doesn’t fail to twitch you too. Atlanta or Antigua, Adelaide or Aberdeen - the quintessence of the Indian identity and ethos lies in its festivals. Festivals symbolize our unparalleled penchant for family, friends, frolic, for fasting, food, fashion, for fanfare, faith, flurry, fervour, fairs and the list goes on and on. They are
the unquestionable testimony of “We, The People”, a collective celebration of life itself that connects and conjoins us, in spite of our regional diversities.
Indisputably, Indians celebrate more festivals than the rest of the world put together.
Come September or may be even end August, and our calendars start getting chocka-block. The desi zest for gaiety and gala sets itself free and warm hues of red, gold, orange, yellow and pink commence colouring everything from our choice of saris, salwars and kurtas, to our mithai, our mehendi, makeup, music and even our minds if I may say so. The supremely satisfying shopping sprees and the even more soul gratifying receipt of gifts make us thank our Indian stars profusely. Dietary restrictions are conveniently tossed out of the window as we’re heralded into the delectable world of gastronomic divinity. Right from the motichoor laddoo that, if you
remember, we’d stolen from the carefully stashed away stack in the fridge as perennially hungry 9-year-olds, to the enduringly appetising badam halwa and puri that took us straight to seventh heaven over the yearshappy days are here again!
It’s the time to not only throw lavish parties, but also to catch up with friends who were eclipsed from memory of late, to laugh out ragingly, to bond, share, bow in respect, to bless with magnanimity, to embrace with unqualified affection, to dance and sing with careless abandon, to stay connected with tradition and roots, to reaffirm our belief in the victory of good over evil, and yet to forgive and forget. Hopping with cousins and friends from one pandal to another during Durga Puja and Ganesh Chaturthi or gliding from one auntie’s to another, not so much for the kanya puja on ashtami as for the love of kale chane and puris; gorging on the irresistible Id spread of biryani and seviyan at Rizvi Chachu’s amidst the customary Id Mubarak greetings; grooving to the beats of disco dandiya; joining in the building society’s ear-splitting shrieks on seeing glittering fireworks brighten the Diwali sky or clandestinely counting the money that big bro had hurriedly slipped into our hands after bhai duj. These chapters from history may agonise us with memories of times gone by and make us feel forlorn and desolate momentarily, but festivals celebrate our values, our profoundly
intense emotions and our spirit of community and brotherhood. No matter which corner of the globe we’re perched in today, festivals evoke the same engaging merriment and endearment, be it in the form of compact, private cards sessions during Lakshmi Puja in Manhattan, grooving to the beats of the electronic dhol in Macau or a mammoth audience watching a celebrity from India perform live in Melbourne. They, unfailingly, help us to recline, repose, reconcile, re-kindle, recreate and regain everything, including the few kilos we’d surprisingly managed to lose on that hair-raising diet. Hopefully or hopelessly we’re reinspired to hit the gym with renewed gusto thereafter.
Devi Durga’s ceremonial immersion or Ravana’s effigy eventually going up in flames has eternally wrenched our hearts, whether we viewed it live as kids in Kolkata or on satellite TV as the eternally kids-at-heart in Kentucky. They signified the close of festivities, as also the fleeting holidays. But again, festivals are about hope and prospect.
And thankfully, there’ve always been more to follow. The chocolate and raisin cake during Christmas at Aunt Jenny’s has forever occupied a special place in our hearts.
And the tackily embellished Xmas tree in the corner of the room looked on triumphantly as we shrieked ‘Happy New Year’ as the clock struck midnight.
Baaro maashey tero paarbon goes a Bengali saying, which stands for thirteen festivals in twelve months. It succinctly sums up our compulsive urge to publicly rejoice at the drop of a hat. The modes and the manifestations may have changed over the decades that have rolled past, but the mood, morale and motivation remain indomitable. As we prepare to plunge into a sea of revelry this festive season, let’s be thankful for our festivals – they provide the succour, solace and sustenance that we desperately need in these challenging times.
So, on this peppy note, happy gorging and forging.
The essence of our Indian heritage comes alive through our festivals, says MADHUCHANDA DAS, while urging us to celebrate them with deserving enthusiasm
It’s that time of the year when, no matter which corner of the world you inhabit, the Indian in you starts craving for the home and the hearth… Yes, the festive season’s here and that unmistakable scent of misty autumn breeze blowing across the homeland around now doesn’t fail to twitch you too. Atlanta or Antigua, Adelaide or Aberdeen - the quintessence of the Indian identity and ethos lies in its festivals. Festivals symbolize our unparalleled penchant for family, friends, frolic, for fasting, food, fashion, for fanfare, faith, flurry, fervour, fairs and the list goes on and on. They are
the unquestionable testimony of “We, The People”, a collective celebration of life itself that connects and conjoins us, in spite of our regional diversities.
Indisputably, Indians celebrate more festivals than the rest of the world put together.
Come September or may be even end August, and our calendars start getting chocka-block. The desi zest for gaiety and gala sets itself free and warm hues of red, gold, orange, yellow and pink commence colouring everything from our choice of saris, salwars and kurtas, to our mithai, our mehendi, makeup, music and even our minds if I may say so. The supremely satisfying shopping sprees and the even more soul gratifying receipt of gifts make us thank our Indian stars profusely. Dietary restrictions are conveniently tossed out of the window as we’re heralded into the delectable world of gastronomic divinity. Right from the motichoor laddoo that, if you
remember, we’d stolen from the carefully stashed away stack in the fridge as perennially hungry 9-year-olds, to the enduringly appetising badam halwa and puri that took us straight to seventh heaven over the yearshappy days are here again!
It’s the time to not only throw lavish parties, but also to catch up with friends who were eclipsed from memory of late, to laugh out ragingly, to bond, share, bow in respect, to bless with magnanimity, to embrace with unqualified affection, to dance and sing with careless abandon, to stay connected with tradition and roots, to reaffirm our belief in the victory of good over evil, and yet to forgive and forget. Hopping with cousins and friends from one pandal to another during Durga Puja and Ganesh Chaturthi or gliding from one auntie’s to another, not so much for the kanya puja on ashtami as for the love of kale chane and puris; gorging on the irresistible Id spread of biryani and seviyan at Rizvi Chachu’s amidst the customary Id Mubarak greetings; grooving to the beats of disco dandiya; joining in the building society’s ear-splitting shrieks on seeing glittering fireworks brighten the Diwali sky or clandestinely counting the money that big bro had hurriedly slipped into our hands after bhai duj. These chapters from history may agonise us with memories of times gone by and make us feel forlorn and desolate momentarily, but festivals celebrate our values, our profoundly
intense emotions and our spirit of community and brotherhood. No matter which corner of the globe we’re perched in today, festivals evoke the same engaging merriment and endearment, be it in the form of compact, private cards sessions during Lakshmi Puja in Manhattan, grooving to the beats of the electronic dhol in Macau or a mammoth audience watching a celebrity from India perform live in Melbourne. They, unfailingly, help us to recline, repose, reconcile, re-kindle, recreate and regain everything, including the few kilos we’d surprisingly managed to lose on that hair-raising diet. Hopefully or hopelessly we’re reinspired to hit the gym with renewed gusto thereafter.
Devi Durga’s ceremonial immersion or Ravana’s effigy eventually going up in flames has eternally wrenched our hearts, whether we viewed it live as kids in Kolkata or on satellite TV as the eternally kids-at-heart in Kentucky. They signified the close of festivities, as also the fleeting holidays. But again, festivals are about hope and prospect.
And thankfully, there’ve always been more to follow. The chocolate and raisin cake during Christmas at Aunt Jenny’s has forever occupied a special place in our hearts.
And the tackily embellished Xmas tree in the corner of the room looked on triumphantly as we shrieked ‘Happy New Year’ as the clock struck midnight.
Baaro maashey tero paarbon goes a Bengali saying, which stands for thirteen festivals in twelve months. It succinctly sums up our compulsive urge to publicly rejoice at the drop of a hat. The modes and the manifestations may have changed over the decades that have rolled past, but the mood, morale and motivation remain indomitable. As we prepare to plunge into a sea of revelry this festive season, let’s be thankful for our festivals – they provide the succour, solace and sustenance that we desperately need in these challenging times.
So, on this peppy note, happy gorging and forging.
ARIES March 21 – April 20
Tarot signifies success and fulfilment. You are likely to be happy on achieving lasting success. You have the support of people around you. It is a positive card in a travel reading. The project on your mind would ultimately bring you success. Overseas projects are indicated by this card. You should keep on putting in hard work in whatever you do.
TAURUS April 21 – May 21
Your dreams are trying to convey a message to you. You will be able to find answers to the questions in your mind if you pay heed to your intuition. You need to be careful about deceit in any form. You should not accept things at their face value, as certain things involve deeper issues that might be hidden from your view. In such cases, you should pay attention to the voice of your subconscious mind. In a relationship reading, Tarot sees the need to resolve certain issues.
GEMINI May 22 – June 23
You are likely to find yourself emotionally satisfied as far as relationships are concerned. The card for you represents friendship, happiness, contentment of the heart and love. Your family situation is likely to be congenial, where the entire family is committed towards deep-rooted values, leading to inner contentment. You are in a work environment where team work is very important for achieving common goals. Collaboration is the key to your success.
CANCER June 23 – July 22
There seems to be an illusion that there is no choice other than to accept things as they are. Tarot indicates the hold of materialism on a person because of the temptations it provides, and signifies a consuming passion for money (in a business reading). Free will is lost, as being controlled seems an easier way out than taking responsibility for oneself. It could even mean a reluctance to change at the cost of growth. It is only you who can liberate yourself from this situation.
LEO July 23 – August 23
Tarot signifies the need to adopt the qualities of strength of purpose and be steadfast in approach. You are able to think about your emotions and feelings in order to get a clear perspective of what you desire, and plan your line of action for future success. Don’t let past difficulties faced in a relationship hold you back from experiencing what life may have to offer to you in the present.
VIRGO August 24 – September 22
You need determination and fortitude to succeed. Once you are successful, you shall be respected for your achievements and be the source of inspiration to others. Have faith and confidence in your abilities as you have the inner resources to come out from any situation as a winner. In a relationship reading, it is a positive time as people involved are ready to listen to each other. Communication is the primary factor in the growth of a relationship.
LIBRA September 23 – October 23
Tarot signifies that the present time is the opportune moment to start a new project. You need to use your skills and follow your instincts. You should be determined to use your potential to the maximum, to succeed. It is the right time to initiate action and execute plans. In a relationship reading, Tarot indicates a dynamic relationship where one partner provides the inspiration and the other makes them a reality, through his skills and practicality.
SCORPIO October 24 – November 22
A career in law, the armed forces or medicine will get you success. It is suggested that you look up new options and even go ahead with new projects. Tarot indicates advancement and also help from a person in a high position. You are likely to get clear advice which would bear fruit if paid heed to and acted upon. Tarot describes a relationship that has a clear purpose and is a meeting of minds.
SAGITTARIUS November 23 – December 21
Tarot signifies a new beginning for you. You may be required to take a decision and act on it. Hence, it is important for you to keep yourself emotionally balanced for the same. You would act with utmost passion towards your desired goal. In a relationship reading, you have a clear idea of what you want from a relationship. Your purpose is clear, so you are able to focus on what you desire. It may be a relationship where mental compatibility is required.
CAPRICORN December 22 – January 19
Tarot signifies a period for spontaneity. There is a focus on trust and hope. Be prepared for the unexpected. It is a positive time for travel. You are likely to be offered new opportunities leading to new heights. You are likely to feel fulfilled if you undertake this unforeseen journey, trust your judgement while planning for the future. Tarot depicts the journey of self-discovery with confidence, fun and optimism. In a relationship reading, you will benefit by living in the present.
AQUARIUS January 20 – February 18
Tarot portrays isolation, a need to think over issues, meditate on the options and energize oneself before acting. You are able to prioritize things and focus on your goals. You contemplate on your future prospects, making use of the time in your hands. You are trying to be at peace with yourself after a long period of turmoil. The time is right for regaining mental and physical health. You may be undergoing a period of ill health and need to recoup your strength.
PISCES February 19 – March 20
Now is the time during which your actions will revolve around emotions. Any problem that has arisen in the past would be sorted out, giving way to celebrations. Tarot forsees perfection, merriment, victory, healing and happiness. Better health is indicated. There is an emphasis on family gatherings and weddings. In a relationship reading, Tarot suggests a successful reunion, also a choice between several partners.
Dear Auntyji, I have an older brother who thinks he’s a real superstar. He plays cricket for our school’s first team and because of that, but whole family adores him. If only they knew he’s actually a real fool. He bullies me when no one’s watching, teases me all the time and is actually a really mean person. And then my mom tells me to try and “be more like him”. How can I expose him for the badmash he really is?
Good Guy, Campsie
Dear Good Guy, Your brother does sound a bit like a fool. But then again, so do you. I’m not sure how much older he is, but you sound like a whining little boy. What kind of man runs to a newspaper Agony Aunt instead of fighting his own battles? No, Good Guy – I’m just kidding! Being bullied is no laughing matter, but you need to learn how to stand up for yourself, without “having to expose your brother”. Maybe you could use humour – making funny comments when he teases you, might turn the tables on him and make others laugh at him. When he sees that it doesn’t feel very good, he might reconsider doing it to you.
It’s just a family dynamic that happens when you’re the younger sibling – the older ones tend to pick on you and if you can’t deal with it, you’ll be the odd one out. Find a way to manage your brother’s bullying, which will make him take notice and even respect you. For instance, if you like cricket too, take an interest and start playing backyard cricket with him. Older kids sometimes tease you to get attention, so spending time and getting to know him might stop the bullying and start a good healthy relationship. And if all else fails, take secret cricket lessons so that you can kick his butt in the one thing he’s good at. Making him cry in front of all his friends might not stop the bullying, but it sure will
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Seeking very slim educated match for a very handsome, slim Jat Sikh boy, 28, 5’9” innocent divorcee, IT professional, Australian citizen. Please respond with details and photo to mrhs09@yahoo.com
Australian citizen, 36 year old male, employed full time, 170cm, non-smoker non-drinker, never married, from Baha’i faith seeks female of Indian background for marriage. Please reply to mills_35@yahoo.com.au
Caring, sincere, slim, youthful looking, male divorcee, Hindu, India-born, 50-year-old, Australian citizen, in professional government job seeks a suitable match. Caste and religion no bar. Looking for caring lady with family values. Call 0416099177. Only genuine enquiries please.
Australian citizen, 36 years old, hospitality professional working in Sydney. Seeking girl between ages 27-36, no caste bar. Please contact 0416398869 or for other details and photo mail me at satishsingh_2009@yahoo.com
Seeking alliance for a 28 year, 5’11”, Gujarati boy. Working as a Database
Dear Auntyji
I’m having trouble with my younger daughter. She’s just turned 13 and everything I do is “so old” and “like, so embarrassing!” I know that I thought so as well when I was her age, but surely times have changed and kids understand their parents better these days with all the media hype and movies about parents and kids. Surely kids of today are aware more than ever that their parents have experience and that we really care about them. I’m not sure how I can get through to her that when I say “No” there’s usually a reason – I’m not out to get her all the time. Do you have any tips on what I can do to reach through to her and bring her around to seeing things my way?
Locked Out, Edensor Park
Dear Locked Out,
I have a great tip for you: Back. Off. Kids of that age, especially girls, need time to form their own views on the world. You’re right – these days with the media and the movies, kids get to know more about the world they live in than ever before. It can get quite
confusing trying to interpret all the signals mation, when you really don’t have all the information yet. Trying to work out what to wear to the movies is hard enough, now they’re also bombarded with all the adult themes we didn’t have to deal with until we were in Uni. How times have changed!
They’re trying to persuade you that they’re old enough to handle themselves in this crazy world so that you will loosen the reins, yet they’re still so confused about it all. And through all this, you’re in there holding on even more tightly and trying to force them to see your point of view. You’re the adult – you should try to see theirs. It’s much easier for you to bend down low enough to see their point of view, than it is for them to reach up to yours.
If you’ve done your job well enough through the first 13 years, they know you’ll always be there through the next 13 and more. You’re the backup when they want to sit down and talk. You’re the shoulder to cry on. And you should make sure that you have a shoulder as well, when you need it. Because letting go is so much harder than finding a way to hang on. Soon, you’ll realise that you’re not locked out anymore.
Analyst in Melbourne, Australian citizen. Looking for a well educated, preferably Gujarati girl with family values. Please email with biodata at mayurimodi@ hotmail.com or ring 0400 872 333. Bharat Matrimony id: G549338
Dear Auntyji, My neighbour’s kids are driving me crazy. They’re loud and noisy, and have no respect for the elderly. In my day, children were seen, not heard, but nowadays, pata nahin kyon, they are always heard, sometimes well past midnight. When I try to tell them to keep quiet, they mock me and repeat what I say. The little boy even wags his finger back at me. Their mother spends her entire day either talking on the phone in her mother-tongue, or looking for people to talk to. My afternoon naps are now history. How do I make these little brats history?
Grumpy Grandma, Wentworthville
Dear Grumpy Grandma,
I suggest you move house. Some kids nowadays have very little respect for their parents, so its not likely that they’ll even listen to you. Parents have a way of explaining the racket their kids make by simply saying, ‘They’re just being kids!’ or blaming it on ADHD. Of course, I can’t imagine what they’re doing awake beyond midnight, maybe their parents are asleep. If moving house is not an option, take the civilized approach and explain to the mother, in polite but simple terms, that she needs to keep her kids quiet, at least after 10pm. If this doesn’t work either, counterattack would be the best solution. If you can’t beat them, join them. When their house is quiet, presumably because the kids are napping or in bed, make as much noise as you can. Talk loudly, knock over kitchen utensils, turn up the volume on the radio or TV, listen to bhajans at full blast, until they finally wake up. Their parents should finally get this not-too-subtle hint, and if they still don’t, use the final weapon – get yourself a really good pair of earplugs.
seeking a suitable bride for her handsome Sikh Khatri, clean shaven, 28, 5’9 inch Australian citizen brother-in-law. Business Manager, Melbourne, Masters in Finance Has a perfect mix of east and west cultures. Contact matrimonial.mb@gmail.com
Australian citizen, 27, 168cm, handsome Punjabi Hindu Khatri boy. Masters in Accounting & Finance. Own business. Well established family in Sydney. Seeking good looking and qualified match. Caste no bar. Please contact: 0401057224 or send details with photo to: matriaussyd@gmail.com
Seeking well qualified match from good family background for handsome, well settled Gujarati boy 31, 5’7”. Raised in India, living in Sydney since past 9 years. MBA from Sydney, CPA ongoing. Working with leading FMCG as accountant. Please respond with details and photo. email: kdsydney@gmail.com
Avery warm simple hearted, caring, extremely hardworking, attractive, never married, 40yr old Christian seeks groom. Working for an MNC in India. She is very family-oriented with good moral values. She’s a blessing. Please contact 0425253501 or email angelina2003@ gmail.com
Professional qualified match for 38/165, never married, fair, slim, Punjabi Arora engineer, Australian citizen, in Govt job. Early marriage. Can relocate. Parents well-settled in India. Educated family. Caste no bar. Respond with photo. Contact mr15840@yahoo.co.in
Sister and brother-in-law seeking a suitable groom for a lovely 24 year old Fiji born H,indu girl, independent, fair, lovely girl. Australian citizen, professionally qualified currently working in an Australian company. Family well-settled in Australia. Family seeks a qualified match for suitable 25 to 29 year old boy with strong family, cultural values and good family background. Please email bio data and recent photographs to arieso@rediffmail.com
Sydney-based Hindu girl (never married, 36, 160 cm), occasionally non-veg, speaks Hindi, Fiji-born, plans to settle in Australia, completing PhD (mid2010). Seeking a qualified professional for marriage (35-41, 165+). Caste no bar. Please send details/recent photos: youdee02@yahoo.com.”
Seeking professionally qualified and well settled match for 34/165cm slim fair beautiful engineer, Australian citizen, girl working as Project Manager in IT in Melbourne. Girl innocently divorced after brief marriage, without issue. Please respond with complete details to sanjuus@rediffmail.com or 0414901508.
Alliance invited for a Sikh girl, June 74/ 5’2”, working in Delhi. Seeking educated Sikh/Punjabi boy. Call brother on 0432020068, email: matriprofile08@ gmail.com
Punjabi Arora parents invite wellsettled/ professional match for never married fair slim beautiful 36/ 165, Information Technology professional. Working in MNC. Australian citizen. Status family, caste no bar. Early marriage. Respond with photo. Em: sydgirl09@gmail.com
Wishing you a Happy Diwali
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Akshay Kumar says when Blue director
Anthony D’Souza approached him for the underwater thriller, the first thing he asked was, “Are you sure you can make the movie?” Touted to be India’s first underwater film, which is said to match international standards of filmmaking, Blue promises to bring with it some never-seen-before visuals and stunts.
“The first thing I did was to look straight into his eyes and ask him - ‘Do you actually think you are capable enough of making a film of this scale, genre and setting? You may say that you want to shoot the film in space or on the moon, but saying something and doing it are two different things. So how will you actually shoot the film?” confided Akshay. As things turned out, D’Souza had done his homework well in advance and took the sceptical actor through some of his work which included certain advertisements he had directed, as well as some groundwork on Blue
“Honestly, it all led me to at least start listening. I got really interested in how he intended to execute Blue,” said Akshay.
“After all, there were going to be extreme stunts in it and that too under water. Then Tony (D’Souza) also showed me the work of the DOP (director of photography)
Pete Zuccarini, who shot Pirates of the Caribbean.” Akshay spoke to Zuccarini, which finally convinced him that D’Souza had the talent to pull off the movie. Once on board, Akshay wasn’t too worried about the fact that a film like Blue had never been
Aish-Abhi steal the show
Bollywood’s first couple made quite an impact on the Oprah Winfrey show recently, talking about their family traditions and generally glorifying their Indian lifestyle and culture. Aishwarya Rai, looking stunning and svelte in a sari and the tall, dark and handsome Abhishek Bachchan graced the sets of Oprah’s show, exuding confidence, flair and a sense of humour.
Aishwarya told Oprah that there was a family tradition of eating one meal at home with all the members of the family, if they are present within Mumbai. She elaborated that it enhanced their closeness and kept them in touch with each other’s lives. It was time spent with family in the true sense of the word.
However, when Oprah turned the spotlight on Indian way of marriages, and especially that of Aishwarya and Abhishek in Mumbai, they seemed somewhat embarrassed. Footage of fans being lathicharged outside Bachchans’ bungalow for trying to get a glimpse of the star-studded
attempted before on the Indian screen.
“I am sure that it would be legendary in its own way. Let’s see how the box office treats it, but while doing the film we went all out for Blue,” confided the actor.
“With the backdrop of a treasure hunt to it, it involves real sharks. I had to go through some training, take diving lessons and earn a certificate for myself,” he added proudly. But that’s not all. Akshay had to get back to reading after years - but this time underwater. “Can you beat that? I had to read books under the water. Tony made me do so much for this film, and it has a
minimum of special effects. In fact, not a single shot has been taken against a green screen,” said Akshay.
“My cameraman, Peter Zuccarini, who is famous for underwater swimming, also helped me a lot. I thought it would be easy because I know how to swim, but this man taught me how to ‘belong’ underwater. That’s the kind of encouragement I was looking for,” admitted Akshay with enthusiasm. Also starring in Blue are Sanjay Dutt, Lara Dutta and Zayed Khan along with Katrina Kaif and Kylie Minogue. Let’s hope Blue’s run at the box office doesn’t run into the red.
atmosphere light with one-liners and witty remarks. So kudos to the couple, for showcasing the true traditional side of India, albeit with a bit of Bollywood glam!
Sambo Kat
Her fans have often referred to her as ‘Kat’, but now actress Katrina Kaif has a new nickname - Sambo - courtesy her Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani co-star Ranbir Kapoor.
He’s 43 and she’s 29, but the difference in their ages doesn’t seem to matter. That’s why Salman Khan and Kareena Kapoor make an “adorable” couple on screen in the soon to be released movie, Main Aurr Mrs. Khanna.
wedding drew instant regrets from the couple. Talk also veered towards Aishwarya Rai and Abhishek Bachchan still living with his parents. But they fielded this one well, stressing the importance of Indian traditions and revealed that when their grandparents were alive, they too lived together with the rest of the family in the same home.
Aishwarya has been on the Oprah Winfrey show once before, but it was a first for Abhishek, who did well, keeping the
“Ranbir coined the name on the sets of the movie when both were required to shoot for an action sequence,” said a source. For the scene, Katrina and Ranbir were required to climb a ladder placed at a height of 200 feet. Ranbir had to save Katrina from goons and then escape on a jet ski. While everyone was doubtful about Katrina doing the stunt, she shocked everyone with her confidence.
“Everyone on sets was quite sceptical about Katrina. But she amazed everyone as she comfortably climbed the ladder leaving Ranbir lagging behind. Ever since that day Katrina has always been addressed as Rambo’s sister, Sambo by Ranbir,” said the source. Well, cats are good climbers too…
“The age difference between Salman and Kareena was never a consideration. They make an absolutely adorable couple and complement each other on screen,” said debutant director Prem Soni. “They look good together in the film as there are no loud or awkward moments between them. The film has romantic instances here and there, but it has a very subtle treatment. There are cute scenes in the film and both of them have carried these really well,” he added.
Newcomer Soni considers Salman his “godfather” and says the superstar was on board the project as soon as he heard the script, and even asked his brother to produce the film. “I had written the script and then fixed an appointment with Salman. His reaction after the narration was overwhelming. All he said was, ‘I’m doing it!’ That’s how the project began,” the director said.
“Salman is indeed my godfather in the industry, as he is the one who has given me a break,” he added.
For Soni, it was a cakewalk to get
Kareena to play the heroine. “I went for the script narration to Kareena in Goa where she was shooting Golmaal Returns. She loved the role and when I told her that Salman was doing the film, she said ‘Why would I say no to Salman?’ She instantly agreed,” he said. “Kareena is such a delight to work with. She is among the finest actors these days. She is so effervescent and completely dedicated as an actor,” he enthused. The film’s plot is a story about three people, but is not based on an extramarital affair, Soni hastened to clarify. “The movie is very ordinary, very simple. It will touch a billion hearts with its real touch and that is what will make the story effective to the audience. We have given it a very contemporary look, but it isn’t flashy at all,” he added. Salman and Kareena – a jodi made in heaven, would you say, Saif Ali Khan?
Lara and her threesome
Lara Dutta, the sizzling hot Bollywood babe who won the crown of Miss Universe before entering tinsel town, plays the character of a supermodel in upcoming flick Do Knot Disturb opposite Ritesh Deshmukh, Govinda and Sohail Khan. Yes, Lara is involved with all three at the same time. Lucky guys!
Lara Dutta also acted in Bhagam Bhag with Akshay Kumar and Govinda, which was a super success at the box office. Looks like the former Miss Universe has found her genre. Her combination of beauty and comedy is formidable indeed!
Prateik pitches into tinsel town
Sanjay Leela Bhansali has signed on late actress Smita Patil’s son Prateik Babbar for his next production My Friend Pinto that will go on the floors later this year. And the youngster is naturally delighted.
“It’s a privilege to be working with Mr.Bhansali. When I met him I was amazed to find out how normal he is in spite of being an artist of such a high calibre,” said Prateik in an interview.
My Friend Pinto will be directed by Raghav Dar, who assisted Mani Ratnam during Guru and then served as associate director on Abbas Tyrewala’s Jaane Tu...
Ya Jaane Na. That’s when Dar and Prateik got to know each other.
My Friend Pinto will be Prateik’s first author-backed title role. He had a captivating cameo in Jaane Tu...Ya Jaane Na and his second film Dhobi Ghat apparently has Aamir Khan playing the lead.
While she is the mistress of Govinda, who is married to Sushmita Sen, her actual ex-boyfriend is Sohail Khan. Ritesh Deshmukh is involved in pretending to be Lara’s boyfriend, to deflect attention from Sushmita. This complication of relationships amongst the characters leads to a comedy of errors, with misunderstandings galore. David Dhawan, with his reputation of directing super-hit comedies with Govinda, has also directed this flick.
The buzz around the industry is that Lara Dutta has given a superb performance in the film, under the able direction of David Dhawan. In fact, her comic timing in the film has come out superbly and she is Govinda’s equal in enacting her character.
David Dhawan was so impressed with Lara Dutta’s comic timing that he compared her to Juhi Chawla, the only actress who has done full-on comic characters in her flicks.
Lara Dutta’s stunningly hot looks will also help her attract the attention of audience when the movie releases.
Ritesh Deshmukh is equally impressed with Lara, praising her comic talent, which he feels surpasses Kareena Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra, from the current breed.
Prateik’s aunt Manya Patil is thrilled by the progress he is making. “When Abbas Tyrewala told me about the role in Jaane Tu ...Ya Jaane Na, I wasn’t so sure. It sounded like a small role. But Abbas told me to trust him and the role turned out to be tailormade for Prateik. I’m glad Prateik’s career is working out,” she said proudly.
“Today, there is room for all kinds of cinema. And like his mom, we want Prateik
to be adventurous in his choices. I’m there to guide him, though I’m not really part of the film industry,” added his Aunt. Speaking on Prateik’s life as a child since he lost his mother when he was born, Manya said, “Actually Prateik has so many self-appointed mothers including my mother, my elder sister Anita and me, of course.” Good luck Prateik, if you get your talent from Smita, you’ll definitely be a star.
Ranbir Kapoor, the latest heartthrob of Bollywood who plays the role of Siddharth in Karan Johar’s upcoming flick, Wake up Sid opposite Konkana Sen Sharma, watched the first trial of the flick on his birthday.
Ranbir was accompanied by his parents Rishi and Neetu Kapoor, as well as gorgeous girlfriend Deepika Padukone for the viewing. Sources say that Rishi and Neetu were thrilled to see their beta’s performance in this Ayaan Mukherjee directed flick, and prayed for its success at the box office.
The film is cited to be a lavishly produced offering, mounted on a grand scale. For Ranbir, the viewing was the icing on his cake. Just before the viewing, he found
himself at his surprise birthday bash hosted by Deepika, and went on to have a blast. And that wasn’t all…Deepika’s surprise birthday gift was a high-end laptop, a thoughtful one for Ranbir, who loves all kinds of gizmos and gadgetry. Lucky Ranbir, looks like love and success are in the air…
Ninety-year-old playback legend Manna Dey - who belted out evergreen songs like “Ae mere pyaare watan” and “Zindagi kaisi hai paheli” - is being honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke award, the highest honour in Indian cinema, confirmed his family recently. “We got a call from the Information and Broadcasting Ministry, informing us about the award. We are very happy for him,” said Anuradha Dey, a member of his family.
Manna Dey lent his voice to the movies of Bollywood from the 1950s to the 1970s. He has recorded more than 3,500 songs over the course of his career. Some of his most memorable hits are “Sur na saje kya gaun main”, “Ye raat bhigi bhigi, ye masta fijzayen”, “Jhanak jhanak tori baaje payaliya”, “Tu pyar ka saagar hai”, “Chunari sambhal gori udi chali jaye re”, among others. Congrats, Manna Dey, well deserved recognition indeed!
Film: Wake Up Sid
Cast: Ranbir Kapoor, Konkona Sen Sharma, Anupam Kher, Supriya Pathak, Rahul Khanna
Director: Ayan Mukerji
Next time when a star son gets an opportunity to get an author-backed role, let’s not complain. That’s because if he actually goes on to come up with as flawless an act as seen in Wake Up Sid, there is no reason why one should really be looking around for anyone else.
Ranbir Kapoor comes up with a neat, simple and believable performance. When most actors would have been happy to establish their standing in Bollywood with a quintessential romantic hero role, Ranbir is anything but a hero here. This is why he allows himself to be treated as a ‘kid’ by Konkona Sen Sharma, who by the way is happy to play a woman five years elder to him. However, there is this special something which brews between them that pretty much gives the true
meaning of a platonic relationship. There are five things that make Wake Up Sid a delightful affair. It has a constant flow throughout; no over the top or understated drama; no ultra emotional strangulation of audiences; absolutely no yuppie cool dude act; and last but not the least, this is an original and refreshing story. While the film actually becomes really engrossing in the second half, the first half facilitates an adequate groundwork for the story to progress. There are bitter sweet moments in the first half as well but one still wishes for that extra something to kick start that would make Wake Up Sid go beyond a regular “coming of age” film. This is where young director Ayan Mukerji’s writing comes in handy because unlike a conventional movie, he doesn’t just bring a turnaround in Sid’s character by throwing a song to bring in that ‘overnight transformation’. He keeps it soft and subtle starting from something as simple as Sid learning how to prepare an omelette, keep his comic books stacked, prepare his own bed and of course, earn his very first cheque. By the time he returns to his dad (Anupam Kher in a short but effective role), you
realise that the destination was eventually met even as the journey wasn’t quite ‘on your face’ or ‘over the top’. Meanwhile Konkona gets yet another complex role for herself. She is brilliant. Watch out for her in the interview scene or the outburst when Ranbir decides to go back to his parents’ house. Her irritation in certain scenes with Ranbir is utterly believable too and so are the tender ways in which she looks after him. The supporting cast fits in well too. The
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While Wake Up Sid would of course raise Ranbir’s stock in months to come, it would be noticed in a major way for Mukerji’s script sense and direction. He makes the kind of debut that made Farhan Akhtar hot property after Dil Chahta Hai.
