2010-09 Melbourne

INDIAN LINK

PUBLISHER

Pawan Luthra

EDITOR

Rajni Anand Luthra

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Sheryl Dixit

MELBOURNE

Preeti Jabbal

CONTRIBUTORS

Mamta Sharma, Usha Ramanujam Arvind, Preeti Kannan, Farrha Khan, Tanveer Ahmed, Chitra Sudarshan, Thomas King, Geeta Khurana, Rani Jhala, Sunil Gutam, Guneeta Dhingra, Candice H, Ritam Mitra, Preeti Jabbal, Noel G deSouza, Shivangi Ambani Gandhi, Sandip Hor

ADVERTISING MANAGER

Vivek Trivedi 1800 015 847

ADVERTISING ASSISTANT

Priti Sharma

GRAPHIC DESIGN AND LAYOUT

Darren Monaghan

Indian Link is a fortnightly newspaper published in English. No material, including advertisements designed by Indian Link, maybe reproduced in part or in whole without the written consent of the editor. Opinions carried in Indian Link are those of the writers and not necessarily endorsed by Indian Link. All correspondence should be addressed to Indian Link

Level 24/44 Market St, Sydney 2000 or GPO Box 108, Sydney 2001

Ph: 02 9279-2004 Fax: 02 9279-2005

Email: info@indianlink.com.au

The match fixing scandal: A watershed moment for cricket

Critics say that tabloid paper News of the World exceeded the bounds of honest journalism when it trapped a middleman in return for details of three occasions when Pakistan bowlers would bowl noballs during a test match against England. Allegations have since emerged of widespread match fixing by a group of select Pakistan players. The Fourth Estate is divided in its views as to the honesty shown by the News of the World in this sting. Some believe that a good journalist should identify themselves and ensure that the other party is aware of their media connections. Others believe that the ends justify the means and that in the current era of cut-throat journalism, the story is what counts. Besides, sting operations are necessary to uncover the murky underworld in select situations such as this particular one.

Be that as it may, allegations against the Pakistani players have rocked the cricketing world. Already smarting from the friction which exists in this sport between the controlling boards of the various Test playing nations, these allegations if proven, could be a watershed moment for the sport. Divisions are rife within the International Cricket Council (ICC) and disagreements within the two blocs of power - one with Australia, New Zealand and England, and the other with India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe,

BY PAWAN LUTHRA

South Africa and West Indies - are openly played out in the media. Australian criticism of Zimbabwe’s racist regime and ICC’s ignoring of this stand was not well received by cricket lovers. More so, ICC’s blatant rejection of Australia’s former Prime Minister John Howard’s application for a position of Vice President of ICC was seen as a snub to the cricketing boards of the so called “white countries” by the “brown countries”. That Australia accepted this insult and withdrew Mr Howard’s nomination was seen by many as surrender to the India-dominated ICC and its substantial financial wealth.

The betting scandal will be a testing time not only for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) but also the ICC and to an extent, Cricket Australia. If the PCB and ICC do not rise to the occasion and apply considerable vigour to unearth the reality behind these allegations, it will be clear to the world that the game is riddled with corruption and self serving interests of a few nations at the cost of the great game of cricket. If they do follow through with

an in depth investigation and ensure that it is transparent and open, and then it will go a long way to regain the confidence of the public. Whether the investigations are carried out by ICC’s anti-corruption department or an independent body such as Scotland Yard, will also go a long way in deciding the future of the game.

For itself, Cricket Australia needs to be vocal and forthright about its position. They need to articulate publicly as to how they would prefer ICC to approach these match fixing allegations. They need to be strident in their preferred process and work towards an open policy of keeping the public informed as to what they believe in.

They also need to be confident as to what options are available to themselves in case the International Cricket Council tries to sweep this under the carpet.

This could be a time when the greater good of the game may be more important than the rivers of cricket gold flowing in some countries.

Leading yoga exponents convene at workshop

Spirituality, knowledge, peace and harmony were in the air at the Oakleigh Hall in Melbourne on August 29 at the 3rd Annual Yoga Workshop organised by Vasudeva Kriya Yoga under the able guidance of Shri Rajendra Yenkannamoole. Shri Rajendra Yenkannamoole, the founder of Vasudeva Kriya Yoga, has deep and fervent passion for Yoga and currently runs five centres in Melbourne and one in Bangalore.

In India, each year he teaches yoga in the Bangalore prison, schools, villages and yoga schools. Thousands of people have attended his workshops.

The highly successful event themed Yoga for Health, Harmony and Self Realisation focussed on bringing awareness about the traditional practices and interpretation of yoga in the modern community. This remarkably relevant and significant one day intensive workshop sought to generate a powerful experience of yoga in its most complete sense with the objective of finding ways to energise, harmonise and de-stress the human system and unveil the Self with the powerful practice sequences of asana, pranayama and meditation. It also focussed on learning simple but powerful techniques which could be incorporated into home practice of yoga, mastering the delicate art of self enquiry and imbibing the often neglected rules for social and personal conduct which form the foundation of yoga - the yamas and the niyamas Meeting up with other people on the yoga path was another focus.

IT industry insights at NASSCOM/AIBC event

The Victorian Chapter of the Australia India Business Council and NASSCOM Australia jointly hosted ‘Leadership Learning’ on August 26, the first in a series of events focussed on innovation and emerging trends within the IT sector from the perspective of industry leaders.

The keynote speaker for the evening was Stephen Tame, Chief Information Officer of Jetstar who delivered an entertaining presentation focussing on the IT culture at Jetstar and technology innovation at the airline. Mr Tame is renowned for his willingness to challenge conventional thinking and adopt creative IT systems, as well as his achievements in managing the IT operations of Jetstar (Australia’s third largest domestic carrier) with an IT staff of just five full time employees. Mr Tame received extremely positive feedback from the audience, and his frank assessment of opportunities for efficiency gains within an organisation when traditional solutions and models are challenged, was welcomed.

The event also featured a presentation by Sudhir Mathur, President of the Australian Chapter of NASSCOM, on emerging technology trends and possibilities particularly in relation to Indian IT providers. NASSCOM is the peak trade body

and chamber of commerce of the IT software and services industries in India, and it has more than 1200 members globally. Mr. Mathur is an acknowledged leader in the Australian market on how “flattening of the world” can be leveraged in a manner that provides maximum “risk free value” to end user organisations. Mr. Mathur’s presentation was compelling, and very well received by the audience and his tireless work in building the NASSCOM brand within Australia was also acknowledged and commended.

The event was chaired by Arvind Dixit, Secretary of the AIBC and ICT Industry Chapter Convenor, and was well attended by a cross section of representatives from the business community as well as the Victorian Government.

The formal presentations were followed by drinks and networking, and a business card raffle.

The AIBC and NASSCOM have a long standing relationship and have partnered with one another on numerous occasions with the joint objective to promoting bilateral links between Australia and India. Both organisations look forward to continuing their association, and in particular, to building on the success of this first event of the “Leadership Learning” series.

PCV Boat Cruise

The Punjabi Club of Victoria (PVC) celebrated its Annual Dinner Dance by organising a boat cruise on the Yarra River for its members in early August. Mr Surinder Mudher, President of PVC welcomed and thanked guests for braving the cold windy weather and promised everyone an evening filled with good food, drinks and entertainment- and the guests were not disappointed!

The night was a huge success with guests treated to delicious cuisine provided by Paradise

Arvind Dixit

Indian restaurant and entertained by the tunes of DJ Ashish from Orja Nights. As part of the evening’s programme, guests also enjoyed an entertaining Salsa dance performance by Mario and his partner Lisa. The couple’s dance routine considerably spiced up the proceedings.

Feedback from the guests was positive and they all agreed that the night was great fun as there was plenty of good food, drinks and most importantly, great music which allow everyone to dance the night and winter blues away!

It was a unique experiment in which local yoga institutions like Vasudeva Kriya Yoga, Yoga in Daily Life, Art of Living and Shiva Yoga shared a common platform and thereby strengthened ties and interactions. The day of intensive and complete yoga practice included pranayama, asana, meditation, self enquiry and practical yoga philosophy and was facilitated by leaders of four authentic yoga traditions. They were Shri Swami Gopal Puri, senior yoga instructor of Yoga in Daly Life; Shri Swami Atmananda, teacher of Learn to Meditate Courses at Shiva Ashram, Mt Eliza; Shri Chris Dale, teacher of Art of Living and Sahaj Samadhi Meditation and Shri Rajendra Yenkannamoole, yoga teacher and the founder of the Vasudeva Kriya Yoga School.

The inaugural session was conducted by Shri Swami Gopal Puri who spoke on AsanaThe Psychosomatic Approach, dwelling upon asanas or exercises that use the body to influence the mind rather than the other way around.

Shri Rajendra Yenkannamoole deliberated on the Foundation of Yoga-Yama and Niyama, opining that in the present times, the basic spirit and essence of yoga seemed lost and had assumed gym-like manifestations. He emphasized on the eight levels of yoga and the importance of the foundations of yoga, stating that the practice of yoga took one away from sorrow and led the Self towards happiness.

Shri Yenkannamoole averred that the underlying mission behind this annual seminar was dissemination of the true meaning of yoga to the community by bringing varied yoga schools on a common platform. Equally important were attempts to add value and provide service to the wider community through individual core competencies.

Shri Swami Atmananda who reflected on Meditation and Self-Enquiry said yoga meant taking responsibility for one’s life. Yoga should never separate us from what we term as a normal layman’s life, it should improve upon it. Self enquiry made one look at every area of one’s life to examine what the problem was from a spiritual perspective and then unblock it.

Shri Chris Dale discoursed on Sri Sri Yoga: Awakening Your Full Potential through a Complete Yoga Practice

The audience listened in rapt attention to the inspirational speakers, diligently emulating the demonstrations or spiritedly jotting down notes on health tips and information on current research findings. The tasty vegetarian lunch that was served indeed tantalized the taste buds. The popularity of the workshop was clearly evident by houseful attendance and the palpable sense of happiness and calm written largely across the faces of the audience. Indeed, it was an overwhelming experience - soaking in the richness of

Guest speakers and attendees

Stephen Tame

Sudhir Mathur

Oz gets first ever South Asian origin senator

Lisa Singh will represent Tasmania in the new Australian Senate

BY USHA RAMANUJAM ARVIND

38-year-old Lisa Maria Singh has been elected to the Australian Senate, becoming the first person of South Asian origin to enter federal Parliament.

A former minister and member of Tasmanian parliament from the electorate of Denison, Singh bounced back after defeat in the March state elections.

“It is a fantastic opportunity to represent Tasmania at the federal level and to be back serving the people again”, she told Indian Link. “I am particularly honoured to be the first woman of South Asian background. I have always believed in embracing diversity and multiculturalism and I want to be their voice. The entire social fabric of Australia is changing and I do hope more ethnic representatives will be visible in the public arena”.

Of course, it will take much longer and more work needs to be done, she noted.

As well, Lisa is also delighted with the swing in gender perspectives. Interestingly, in the 2010 elections, 50% of the Senate members from Tasmania have been women.

Of Rajput origin, from Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh, Lisa’s great grandfather moved to Fiji in 1902 under the British government as an indentured labourer. Her grandfather Ram Jati Singh OBE rose in ranks to become a member of the Fijian Parliament in the seventies.

Her father migrated to Australia as an international student in the early sixties.

Proud of her Indian heritage, Singh has visited India several times and also as a member of parliament in 2007, meeting the president and fellow Indian parliamentarians.

“I remember being interviewed on Lok Sabha TV about my ethnic background and role in Australian politics”, she remembered.

Lisa brings to politics, a strong heritage in volunteering and social work.

“Growing up in the inner city suburbs of Hobart, and attending an all-girls Catholic school I became involved in the school’s St Vincent de Paul Society Group, organising events and volunteering in the Vinnie’s Opp Shop in North Hobart that is still there today,” she reminisced. “That focused me from an early age on the disadvantaged in our society, be they the young, unemployed, homeless or the elderly. From that young age I felt that it was not right that some people missed out on basic services and things that most people took for granted”.

Community development has been her path of interest throughout her tertiary education. Lisa in fact, did her thesis on street kids and petty crime in Hobart CBD, advocating the urgent need for early intervention and prevention.

She carried the same passion forward through the union movement, striving for safety and job security in the workplace. Lisa went on to become the director of the Working Women’s Centre “giving women a voice to be heard on issues such as child care, bullying, discrimination, harassment and paid maternity leave”, eventually joining the Lennon government in 2008. She was Minister for Corrections, Consumer Protection and Workplace Relations.

As an MP, Lisa served on various parliamentary committees and has lobbied for housing, public transport, cultural diversity and reform for the Hobart waterfront. Likewise, as minister, she introduced significant reforms in her portfolio areas, as well as assisting the Premier on Climate Change. Lisa reformed workers compensation laws in Tasmania, established a unique whole of government asbestos policy, introduced reforms in the private rental market, vendor disclosure and energy efficiency

standards for residential properties, and commenced a ten year reform plan for the Tasmanian corrections system.

She has also been actively involved in various community organisations, including the United Nations Association and the Australian Republican Movement.

Since her defeat in March this year, Lisa has been actively establishing a support organisation for asbestos sufferers in Tasmania. She is the current CEO of Asbestos Free Tasmania Foundation.

“I feel truly privileged and humbled that after only four and a half months of losing my seat at the state election, I now have the opportunity to represent Tasmanian interests in the federal sphere,” she said.

Join at the grassroots level, have a vision, be passionate and vocal, show your commitment to causes, understand local issues and work your way up slowly but surely – that is Lisa’s mantra for political success.

“It is at the community level that we build our social capital, where informal networks develop and community groups empower each other,” she observed.

“And throughout my community life, one common thread has been apparent through most things I have done and that is the significance of our human rights”, she stated. She firmly believes in the ideology that whether people are black, white, young, old, disabled, female, sick or injured, they all have basic rights.

As a human rights advocate, she was awarded Hobart Citizen of the Year in 2004 for her role in the Hobart peace movement, especially for highlighting the rights of women and children during wartimes, most notably the Iraq war.

Besides a strong values platform and conviction in one’s beliefs, Lisa also advocates the importance of core leadership skills.

We wish Lisa every success in her prestigious new role.

Lisa Singh with PM Julia Gillard

Diabetes The silent killer

Simple steps to prevent diabetes

• If you’re a South Asian over 30, see your GP, have a fasting glucose check. Measure your waist line around the navel and if it’s more than 85 cm, start a daily 1/2 hour walk or gym. Set a target waist reduction of 10cm over 10 weeks.

• Cut down by half the rice, roti, pasta and bread while increasing the vegetable, lentils, fruit and protein intake, as this alone will decrease the waist line and blood sugar significantly.

• Drinking a glass of water before meals reduces your food intake. Use skimmed milk and reduced fat dairy products and grill or bake your food instead of frying.

• Drink plenty of water. Snack on healthy alternatives like nuts and wholegrain bars.

Thirty eight-year-old Pendle Hill mum Brindha Ponniah had a reality check when she was diagnosed with gestational diabetes during her second pregnancy. She was cautioned by her doctor that unless she took immediate and radical action, she had a high risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Owing to the fact that she was overweight and both her parents were diabetic, the news sent alarm bells ringing.

Brindha is just one of 171 million people worldwide suffering diabetes, a vast majority of who are not even aware of it.

Diabetes is a disease caused by elevated glucose levels in the blood. A normal blood sugar level is between 80-120. A fasting blood sugar over 125 is considered diabetic.

Diabetes can go undetected for years and, if untreated, can lead to serious complications like heart disease, stroke, gangrene of the extremities, nerve disease that can lead to amputation of lower limbs, blindness, hypertension, skin infections and kidney failure.

Being referred to as “Asia’s new epidemic”, diabetes claims 3.2 million lives every year with six deaths every minute, and is fast becoming the number one killer in the world. Indians have been identified as particularly prone to the disease, leading the world with 50.8 million sufferers. (China follows at 43.2 million). In Australia alone it is estimated that over 900,000 people are diabetic.

“People from the Indian subcontinent and its diaspora may be the fulcrum of the diabetes tsunami,” warns Dr Soji Swaraj, consultant physician and specialist endocrinologist (diabetes and hormone specialist) at Concord Hospital and the University of Sydney. Of the projected 333 million people with diabetes in 2025, he stresses, a large proportion will be of Indian subcontinent ancestry.

Both heredity and environment have been listed as contributory factors in Indian-origin sufferers of the disease, and many education programs have been put in place to allow members of the community to assess if they are at risk.

Describing the graveness of the situation, Dr Swaraj says, “I give my patients the analogy of a deaf and blind person walking inadvertently along a train track, blissfully unaware that they are at high risk of being struck by an oncoming train. And yet, simple measures can take them off the track to disaster and towards seeing their children grow up, get married and have their own children.”

Diabetes kills people early (40s to 60s)

Types of Diabetes

Type 1: This was formerly known as the juvenile-onset diabetes as it strikes in childhood or early teens. This is an autoimmune disease in which the body destroys its own beta or insulin producing cells. The patients are insulin dependent and as they progress in age the symptomatic lines begin to blur into Type 2. Type 1 accounts for 10% of all diagnosed cases of diabetes. The main difference between the two types is that in Type 1 the pancreas makes little or no insulin and in Type 2 though insulin is being produced it is not in high enough quantity.

Type 2: This disease was previously referred to as adultonset diabetes. It usually affects people over 40 and is caused by poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle. However, availability of unhealthy fast food and lack of exercise is making the teenagers of today the new victims of Type 2. Type 2 accounts for 90% of all cases. Obesity, family history, ethnicity and glucose intolerance are all risk factors for Type 2 diabetes.

Gestational: This type of diabetes occurs in 2-5% of all pregnancies and disappears when the pregnancy is over. It affects women who have difficulty in digesting carbohydrates. All women are tested for it in the first trimester. Nearly 40% of women who suffer from gestational diabetes later develop Type 2. There is also a condition known as Pre-Diabetes. This is used to define patients who have elevated blood sugar but are not diabetic yet. Additionally, Hemocromatosis, Syndrome X, Cystic Fibrosis and Polycystic Ovary Disease are also types of insulin resistant diabetes.

from heart attack and stroke, which means children are tragically losing parents before they need to, says Dr Swaraj.

The diabetes specialist notes that people of South Asian origin are 4 times more likely to develop Type-2 diabetes than Caucasians. They also develop diabetes at a younger age, and at lower adiposity (obesity) levels.

“All subcontinental people are at much higher risk than the general Australian population (as high as 30% compared with 7%). The vascular damage starts even before diabetes starts, as our waist lines increase and we become too busy with our mortgages and school drop-offs.”

Why are South Asians more at risk?

There’s no doubt about it, South Asians are facing “a cardiaovascular time bomb”, Dr Swaraj says.

Explaining the role of genetics in diabetes, Dr Swaraj notes, “Like many indigenous populations, Asian Indians may have genetic preselection for an insulin resistant state wherein energy storage in the form of adipose tissue is favoured. This would have made sense in the hunter-gatherer times, though not in today’s obesogenic environments and with sedentary lifestyles. Poor maternal nutrition and low birth weight in Indian babies may also predispose them to an insulin-resistant state and diabetes in adult life.”

Compared to their Caucasian counterparts, South Asian children demonstrate a higher level of insulin intolerance and insulin resistance (which in many cases is genetic) thus requiring preventative measure to be put in place at an earlier age. Some studies have linked the lower threshold of waist circumference (central obesity) with an increased risk of glucose intolerance amongst South Asians.

But it’s not just genes. The unprecedented economic growth in India has underpinned a change towards more adipogenic (fatproducing) and sedentary lifestyles. Other factors such as a lack of physical activity due to cultural norms and the typical Indian highstarch diet, may play a role as well.

“Our Indian mothers are to blame too,” notes Dr Swaraj. “They want us all to study, get a professional job at a desk (not out in the great outdoors where we can get enough Vitamin D from the sun). They also want us to eat ‘just one more serve’ of roti or rice to make them happy”.

Dr Swaraj notes that while much of the fibre and pulses in vegetarian Indian diets are beneficial in a diabetic diet, the starch

• Indian women should also have their Vitamin D levels checked and replaced if low.

• If you are on the threshold of diabetes it is imperative that you check the Glycemic Index (GI) of foods you eat. This helps maintain blood sugar.

• Smoking increases the risk of diabetes significantly so if you can’t go cold turkey than start by reducing and finally quitting.

• If you’re a diabetic, aim to get your Hb A1c below 7% as this will cut your risk of heart attack and stroke and if difficult, get a referral to an endocrinologist from your GP.

• There are several newer medicines available now for the overweight diabetic patient that help lose weight, drop the appetite and lower the glucose as opposed to traditional drugs that cause hypos and weight gain. Talk to your GP about these.

rich content like rice, chapati and paratha is not. He also blames the culture of eating in Indian society (our norms of hospitality), and the high palatability of spicy food leading to consumption beyond nutritional needs, as equally responsible for increasing cases of diabetes.

“Indians, whether in India or outside of it, are several times less likely to engage in physical exercise than in western counterparts,” he adds.

Indian, Pakistanis and Bangladeshis are 14%, 30% and 45% less likely, respectively, to follow the guidelines for recommended physical activity than the rest of the world population. Women in these countries face many hurdles including cultural norms, illnesses and social expectations which prevent them from aspiring to maintain physical fitness.

Some social habits like chewing on betel nut and smoking are also attributed to increased cases of diabetes in south Asians along with a deficiency of Vitamin D.

Preventive steps

Toongabbie GP Dr Shanthini Seelan says that one misunderstood fact about the disease is the permanency of the condition. “Many people are not aware that once diagnosed with diabetes, they have the condition for life. While dietary changes and regular exercise

With this silent predator on the prowl, it’s time to arm yourself with the knowledge necessary to stave off its rapid advances.

FARZANA SHAKIR and MAMTA SHARMA report.

will significantly slow the progression of the disease, it will unfortunately be a lifelong condition to manage”.

But rather than undergoing treatment, the best way is to take the necessary measures to prevent one from becoming a diabetic. Primary prevention measures include a healthy diet, regular physical activity, maintaining a normal body weight

Diabetes Australia helplines

Diabetes Australia is a national federated body made up of state and territory organisations which helps all people affected by diabetes and those at risk. It also fundraises to help find a cure.

Diabetes Australia (Sydney) 26 Arundel Street

Glebe NSW 2037

If calling within NSW call the Infoline: 1300 136 588 (local call cost)

Phone: (02) 9552 9900

Fax: (02) 9660 3633

Email: info@diabetesnsw.com.au

Website: www.diabetesnsw.com.au

Diabetes Australia (Melbourne) 570 Elizabeth Street

Melbourne VIC 3000

If calling within Victoria call the Infoline: 1300 136 588 (local call cost)

Phone: (03) 9667 1777

Fax: (03) 9667 1778

Email: mail@diabetesvic.org.au

Website: www.diabetesvic.org.au

Diabetes Australia (Brisbane) 29 Finchley Street

MILTON QLD 4064

If calling within Queensland call the Infoline: 1300 136 588 (local call cost)

Phone: (07) 3506 0999

Fax: (07) 3506 0909

Email: info@diabetesqld.org.au

Website: www.diabetesqld.org.au

Diabetes Australia (Adelaide) 159 Sir Donald Bradman Drive HILTON SA 5033

If calling within SA call the Infoline: 1300 136 588 (local call cost)

Phone: (08) 8234 1977

and avoiding tobacco use. These can prevent or delay the onset of diabetes. (Secondary prevention would include early detection and good treatment). By making these simple changes today you may be able to give a disease like diabetes a slip.

And that is just what Brindha did. She was advised to lose weight and embark on a healthy lifestyle in order to be able to enjoy

Signs and Symptoms

Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes have mostly similar symptoms. In both there is too much glucose in the blood and not enough in the cells. In Type 1 it is due to the lack of insulin and in Type 2 due to the cells becoming resistant to the insulin being produced. Since the cells aren’t getting the needed glucose, the body lets us know by giving signs like frequent trips to the bathroom, weight loss, feeling thirsty all the time, fatigue and weakness, a tingling sensation in the hands, legs or feet. Apart from these there could be other signs like dry, itchy skin, blurred vision, frequent cuts and bruises that get infected and take longer to heal.

What are the risk factors?

Weight: The most important risk factor for diabetes is obesity. The increase in your weight is directly proportional to the resistance of your body to insulin.

Age: The risk of Type 2 diabetes increases with age, more so after 45. Family History: Your risk of developing diabetes is higher if it runs in the family, especially if your mother, father or sibling has it.

a disease free life with her young family. She was also made aware of the SHAPE program which is currently being run by medico group WentWest for people residing in western Sydney.

Sessions for Health and Physical Exercise (SHAPE) is an 8-session program aimed at increasing health and fitness awareness for people at risk of developing chronic diseases like Type 2 diabetes or heart problems. Brindha asserts that joining the program was a life saver. “They advised me on how to eat sensibly, how to maintain an active lifestyle, how to create a balance, and best of all, they taught me how to read labels on supermarket products to determine what I should eat and how I should be cooking to retain their benefits,” she says.

By following the exercise regime and availing the 3 months free gym membership offered by SHAPE, Brindha is very close to achieving her ideal weight and keeping diabetes at bay.

Since its launch a year ago, SHAPE has seen more than 300 western Sydney residents improve their diet and exercise habits, and changeds the lives of many who were heading towards Type 2 diabetes.

The need for a diabetes-education campaign Dr Swaraj feels that we need increased

awareness among Indian diaspora about the disease. “Cultural associations, ethnic press, radio, TV and websites should all be approached to do their bit. All Indian patients should be screened for waist circumference, and they should undergo fasting Blood Sugar Level tests annually. Risk factor education at time of immigration could also help. These are but a few standard and culture-specific measures that could be put in place to prevent the disease”.

And what can we do with our kids today to prevent them from getting diabetes? Dr Swaraj, a father of two young kids himself, is quick to reply:

* Keep the kids active daily.

* Stop force feeding them - don’t force them to finish their meals.

* Give them less and less carbohydrate (such as rice and roti).

* Talk to your GP if you see their waist line increasing.

Research shows that most people do not think diabetes is a serious condition and underestimate their risk. Don’t be the type to leave it too late. Could you or one of your family members or friends be at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes? If you are over 40, are overweight and have a family history of Type 2 diabetes, get yourself checked today and get on top of the game.

SHAPE participant Brindha Ponniah and WentWest dietitian and exercise physiologist Diana Daoud and inset, diabetes specialist Dr Soji Swaraj

Funding boost announced

A funding boost of $30,000 was announced by Premier John Brumby at the Indian Independence Day dinner held in Mannigham Hall recently. The funding is provided so that the Manningham council can conduct a feasibility study into the development of a joint community cultural facility. The proposed facility could include a community library, meeting areas, performance space and offices.

The Manningham City Council has contributed $40,000 including cash and in-kind support to the feasibility study to complement the grant. Together with Manningham City Council, the four organisations behind the project are the Federation of Indian Associations of Victoria (FIAV), the Chinese Senior Citizens Club of Manningham, the Iranian Senior Citizens Club of Manningham and the Iranian Society of Victoria.

Speaking at a celebration of India’s 63rd Independence Day hosted by FIAV and AISV (Australian Indian Society of Victoria), Mr Brumby said, “Victorians are a multicultural and diverse people. We come from over 200 countries, speak more than 230 languages and dialects and follow more than 120 different faiths. More than a third of residents within the City of Manningham come from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and it is a wonderful opportunity for residents to be involved in developing the proposed project idea.”

Mr Brumby also took the opportunity

to congratulate the Indian community for its longstanding contribution to Victoria’s cultural and social harmony. “Independence Day signifies a rebirth of the cultural expression and identity of India as a nation state. We are proud to benefit from the cultural and economic enrichment of so many Indianborn migrants who’ve chosen to make Victoria their home,” Mr. Brumby said.

In his opening speech Mr Vasan Srinivasan, President of FIAV said, “The Indian Community has borne the brunt of problems regarding the higher education sector which has affected the viability of Victoria’s number one import. Last year $4.1 million was generated by international students for the benefit of the state of Victoria, but unfortunately not enough thought was put into how these students will be accommodated, taught, how they would work and commute to and from their place of education.” According to Mr Srinvasan, despite many unfortunate attacks on Indian students, the FIAV stood side by side with the Government and Victorian Community to pronounce that these incidents were of an opportunistic nature and not the result of racism.

“Over the year FIAV has also been actively providing continued coordination and assistance to international students studying in Victoria. FIAV has also offered continued support to the Victorian authorities in their efforts to rebuild brand Victoria,” claimed Mr Srinivasan. “However, international students for the large part, have been taken for granted,” he added. “The Department of Education should make sure that adequate support is provided to them not for the millions that the sector generates, but because of the Department’s duty of care to each and every student irrespective of their race, religion or background.” Taking stock of FIAV’s achievements Vasan said that

the community can achieve more with determination, hard work, focused attention and unity and he promised that FIAV will continue its efforts towards creating the desired unity.

Mr Nicolas Kotsiras, member for Bulleen and Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs also addressed the audience. Representing opposition leader Ted Baillieu, Mr Kotsiras endeared himself to the predominantly Indian audience with his comments on the upcoming Commonwealth Games. “The Commonwealth Games are a great opportunity for tourism, sport and cultural exchange,” he said. “Someone said to me the other day that there is no way India will have the venues ready prior to the games and I remembered that this is exactly what they said before the Olympics in Athens. However, Greece gave one of the best Olympics ever. I am sure that India will also offer the best Commonwealth Games ever!” said Mr Kotsiras, generating thunderous applause from those present.

The gala dinner was attended by over 400 guests from various communities and several dignitaries including Matthew Guy, Shadow Planning Minister and Brian Tee, Upper House member for Eastern Metropolitan region. Besides the formal speeches, the highlight of the evening was a spectacular Sun Dance performance choreographed by renowned classical dancer and teacher OAM Tara Rajkumar.

Dr Gurdip Aurora, President of AISV concluded the formalities with a vote of thanks.

Preeti Jabbal

Photo courtesy: Preeti Jabbal

Premier Brumby at the I-day function, announced a funding boost for a community development study

Dancers performing

A CAREER IN

BY PREETI KANNAN

Rigorous training, good mentoring

Flight Lieutenant Satish Ayyalasomayajula

26 years, Communications Engineer with No 1 Combat Communications Squadron at Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Base, Richmond

A strong sense of duty and burning desire to serve the nation was what inspired Flt Lt Satish Ayyalasomayajula to take up a career with the RAAF. Born in Visakhapatnam, India and brought up almost entirely in Australia, his family migrated to Australia in 1991 when Satish was barely six years old. After his schooling in Melbourne, he went on to do his Bachelors at the Overnewtown Anglican Community College. He then pursued a Communication Engineering Degree at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT).

It was as a student in RMIT that Satish had his first insight into the Armed Forces, when advertisements on joining the Air Force in local gazettes caught his eye. He attended a career recruitment drive at RMIT, and Satish recalls, “We had a brief at the university on what working in the Air Force entailed. The work profile was in line with my studies as a communication engineer and the offer was lucrative, so I decided to take it up.”

Once he had made up his mind to work with the Air Force, Satish underwent a four stage interview which included an IQ Test, a psychological evaluation, an intensive interview with a senior psychologist and a medical test. The toughest part, Satish admits, was the initial training that all officers had to undergo after spending 17 weeks at the Officers Training School (OTS).

“The training was quite elaborate and rigorous, and initially, it felt quite hard. I guess it was also because of cultural differences and I was not used to the physical aspects of training. Even mentally it was quite exhausting and there were both, low and high times during training. However, I had had good mentoring by the staff at the OTS and spoke to them for assistance,” he says.

The training, however, prepared Satish to take on leadership roles, which is extremely crucial when working in the Air Force. In his past six years of service, he has been on a lot of military exercises, pre-work ups and real time operations. “It gives us a good insight into management and leadership. It is a great opportunity,” he notes, adding that he is extremely keen to take up overseas assignments. “I look forward to going overseas. The fact that we have the opportunity to lead people is extremely exciting. We are here to serve the nation and the people; this knowledge keeps me going and continues to motivate me. If a few guys are working for me, it is my duty to make sure they are happy,” says Flt Lt Ayyalasomayajula.

Being Indian by birth, Satish maintains strong cultural ties with the subcontinent by keeping in touch with his native language and of course, Bollywood. “Obviously, my parents influence my Indian cultural values and we speak Telugu at home, in which I am fluent. I also understand Hindi and watch Bollywood films to keep in touch with my heritage,” he says. “Since my parents also brought me up with the view that I am Australian, I have also adopted the ways of Western society,” he adds, remarking that that they were fully supportive of his decision when he decided to join the Air Force.

This young officer says, “There is a lot of multiculturalism in the service. It is a diverse and equitable service. I encourage more people of Indian descent to join, but they have to be prepared for the Australian way of business. They should join because of their desire to support the country, and they should be prepared for that,” he cautions.

Positive change is good for ADF

Flight Lieutenant Hardik Mehta

30 years, Systems Engineer ALSPO Royal Australian Air Force Base (RAAF) Richmond

An engineer’s first love is always technology and specialised eq Lt Hardik Mehta, it was no different. An engineer, Hardik came Gujarat as an international student to pursue his Masters in En RMIT University. After obtaining his Permanent Residency, he de Australian Air Force because of the highly specialised technolo equipment the service offers.

“As an Engineer, one would like to work on cutting edge technol equipment, and the RAAF obviously owns a lot of it. RAAF also o career progression path and first rate training to be successful job. A strong desire to serve the country I live in combined wi made the decision to join the RAAF easy,” says the officer, who RAAF as an Electronics Engineering Officer in October in 2006.

After he saw a couple of recruitment advertisements on TV which to the Defence website, Hardik found a wealth of information ab Australian Defence Force (ADF). He underwent four and a half mo at the Officers’ Training School, which was previously in Melbou officers, he was also taught to operate basic weapons and carry activity in case the base is attacked.

After completing training, Hardik’s first posting was with Numbe where he was in charge of various maintenance workshops and sup 70 technicians. He currently works as a System Safety Engineer Lift Systems Program Office (ASLPO), which provides logistical a support and new capability acquisition for the Air Lift Group’s of C-130H and C-130J Hercules weapon systems. He also overlooks day maintenance of aircraft.

Flt Lt Mehta has been to Indonesia as part of the joint exercises between the Australian and Indonesian governments, where he spent time with other officers

A soldier and a medico Captain Dr Nalini Rao

46 years, General Practitioner - Training Medics, medicals for soldiers

Being a full-time mom and juggling a medical profession is far from easy. But that is exactly what Dr Nalini Rao, currently a doctor ‘in reserve’ for the Australian Army, does. Hailing from a family deeply involved in social service –her grandfather Thakur Kundan Singh Kush was an Arya Samaji pioneer from Sahanpur, Uttar Pradesh and credited with starting the first Indian girls’ school in Fiji – Dr Rao’s inclination to service is therefore, not unusual. Her role models in life have been her mother Dr Uma Rao, who was one of the first three girls to graduate from the Fiji School of Medicine; and her aunt Mrs Usha Rai, who was Principal of the DAV Girls College and a member of the Women’s Army Cadets in Bangalore in the 1950s.

Born in Fiji, Nalini migrated to Australia in 1988 and she did her Masters in Molecular Biology at the Queensland University of Technology. After completing her MBBS, she worked in rural Queensland, from Mt Isa in the west to Thursday Island and Weipa in the north, to Bowen and many towns in between. Weipa was her first tryst with the Australian Army, where she joined as a Commissioned Officer with the Australian Defence Force Army Reserve with the Rank of a Captain in 2002.

“I later moved to Townsville and started doing medicals for soldiers, taking part in training exercises like going into the bush to do mock resuscitations, along with learning to put up a “hoochie” (sleeping tent), radio and weapons handling and navigation skills. I then moved to Western Australia for three years, where I was based at Irwin Barracks in Perth,” she says, adding that she worked as a part time soldier and also worked as a GP in an after-hours clinic.

Nalini underwent her officer training at Duntroon in Canberra in 2005, after which she regularly underwent soldier training, which included roughing it out in the bush – something which she enjoys. As part of the Combat Service Support Battalion, Nalini performed medicals, looked after soldiers and also had training in weaponry and shooting.

Speaking about her inspiration to work in the Army,

Richmond base to show them where he works and the kind of work

“They are all extremely proud that I work at the Australian Air

Nalini says, “I joined because I wanted to contribute to my country. Also, after September 11, I felt a deep need to assist during human crises. I was also influenced by a friend Major Kerry Ayres, who was a nurse in the Australian Army and whom I met working in Weipa. She spoke about the work involved and I was very keen to be a part of it, and learn new skills.”

When she declared her intention to join the Army, Nalini’s family was naturally surprised. “They were shocked about my decision, but at the same time proud. I was also one of the few women doctors of Indian descent to be a part of the Army. There were many Australian doctors and nurses but hardly any Indian women doctors,” she says.

However, she says that despite her origin, she has never felt non-white or non-Australian, because of the immense respect accorded to women in Defence. “I would love to see more girls of Indian descent work as doctors, nurses, medics or in any other capacity in the ADF as there are many opportunities and endless possibilities. Now would be a good time to join and also work overseas in conflict zones to gain experience in working in challenging environments,” says the medico, emphasising, “Women shouldn’t be worried about working in the Army as they are well-respected and accepted.”

Currently Nalini is inactive and has been placed on Army ‘reserve’, while she works as a GP in WA, because of her interest in working with rural Australians, while also devoting time to her two-and-a-half-year old daughter, whom she adores. “There are not many doctors here in rural areas and it is very challenging to work here. Also, my daughter is very young and is quite attached to me. I want to wait till she is older and I’ll resume my role in the Army once we move back to the city,” says the doctor, who works with Indigenous Australians.

Despite her Fijian ancestry and long years in Australia, Nalini says they have kept their Indian roots intact and celebrate a number of Indian festivals, including Diwali. “I love music and speak Hindi and Urdu, and I wear a sari at any opportunity. In fact, I am now teaching my daughter to speak Hindi, so she also knows the language,” says Dr Rao, whose mother is from Uttar Pradesh and her father is from Andhra Pradesh, while her husband is of Scottish heritage.

Nalini hopes to see more Indian women in the Australian Defence Force and also hopes to do an exchange programme in the future to India and Fiji, if the opportunity arises.

Photo: VIVA Life Photography

Photo: D efence

Learning leadership skills and dedication

Aircraftsman Kalyan Murthy Rachakatla

27 years, attached to 44 Wing Detachment at RAAF Amberley

Dedication, enthusiasm and youthfulness are traids that best describe Aircraftsman Rachakatla – an Electrical Engineer from Satyabama University in Chennai, who first came to Australia in 2006 to pursue his Masters at the Queensland University o Technology. After finishing his education, Kalyan opted to apply for his Permanent Residency as he had come to like Australia. was keen on finding a good job here. When I looked up opportunities in the Australian Forces, I liked what was offered. Though had the opportunity to join the Army or the Navy, I wanted to join the Air Force as I like working with aircraft,” he says.

In the past two years, this young officer has been working on radars, Instrument Landing System (ILS), Air Defence and Air Traffic System (ADATS), Tactical Air Navigation (TACAN) and coordinates with air traffic controllers to ensure the efficient functioning of electrical equipment that facilitates aircraft landing and take-off.

Kalyan underwent basic training for over 10 weeks in Wagga Wagga, before starting his work.

“The training, which included bushwalks, march-pasts, drills, weapon handling, shooting, using fire equipment and first aid courses, was quite tough. It also taught me leadership skills and dedication,” says this young man who originally hails from Hyderabad. The Air Force officer was trained in filling sandbags and leopard crawling as part of the bush training that all officers undergo.

“We have to be prepared for everything and be physically very fit. The 10-week training tests your abilities physically and psychologically,” he says.

Remembering his rigorous training Kalyan adds, “It was getting tougher with each day and towards the end, I told my corporal that I wanted to give up. However, he motivated and encouraged me, which helped me push myself to complete the training.”

On his initial days at the Air Force he says he was worried about taking on leadership roles. “But after the training I was given, my fears disappeared and I am now very comfortable leading a team,” he says.

Kalyan says he enjoys it all – the hard work, team spirit and camaraderie among the officers. Though as an engineer his focus is on the well-oiled functioning of aircraft equipment, like a true Australian, he lives up to the Aussie motto – work hard, play harder and that is reflected in the team building exercises, the physical training and the different sports he plays every day. In fact, Kalyan is hoping to work in combat zones like Afghanistan or Iraq and has in fact put in the ‘Individual readiness’ application, which signals an officer’s willingness to be deployed in war zones.

“I want to work in challenging environments and gain experience,” he claims confidently.

The Australian Air Force, according to him, is extremely diverse with people from different backgrounds, besides Indians, working together to serve Australia. An example of diversity, he notes, is the cooking of different ethnic dishes in the officers’ mess.

“There may be curries and at least one Indian dish. This reflects the growing number of Indians in the Air Force,” he says.

Despite his love for his adopted nation, Kalyan maintains a strong connection with India, his country of origin, and the famous Hyderabadi Biryani.

“I go home ever year to visit my family and love eating Indian dishes. My family will soon be visiting me here,” says the recently wedded officer.

In fact, when he decided to join the Australian Air Force, his family asked, why not the Indian Air Force?

And what was his response?

“I really like Australia and this is now my country. I feel at home here,” he smiles.

Reginald Armstrong

47 years, Air Traffic Control Supervisor, defence civilian located at Oakey in Queensland

If it is possible to don many hats in a lifetime, one has to si the long and illustrious career of Reginald Armstrong, or Reg as he is fondly called, since the last three decades. Armed with a sense of humour and an uncanny desire to serve the nation, Reg holds the distinction of having served both the Army and the Air Force since he joined the Australian Defence Forces in 1981. His family moved to Australia from Mumbai, which he still prefers to call ‘Bombay’.

“I was eleven when we moved here. When I go back to India, I realise it has definitely changed. We used to ride bikes in Colaba when I was a kid. Now, it would be risky to try that,” he jokes.

Reg was recruited in the Army as a cartographer, where he helped study and make maps for about six years. “Before you had Google Earth, we had to take aerial surveys and put up photos. We created three-dimensional images of the earth’s surface and drew contours,” he says. During this time, he was deployed on Operations on four occasions – three times to different parts of Indonesia and once to the Marshall Island South Pacific. His time as a Corporal in Kapooka as a Recruit Instructor were some of the best years of his life, reminisces Reg.

“I worked long hours, starting between 5 and 5:30am and finished after 10pm, seven days a week whilst training recruits, for app 12 weeks. The reward was seeing the recruits march out of Kapoo to a long career within Defence,” he says proudly.

After resigning from the ADF after 22 years at the rank of Flight Lieutenant (Captain), he now works as an Air Traffic Controller with the RAAF. In his long years, he has never served in a combat zone, unlike his younger brother, who was a Major in the Army and served in Afghanistan and Iraq.

“I just missed out on the combat zone. But, I have seen my brother serve there and it was quite difficult for him as he was married and had two children,” he says. Thinking back on the days when he first joined the Army, Reg refers to himself as quite ‘unique’ because of the fact that not many non-white Australians were part of

“Despite the differences, you are accepted for who you are in the ADF as they are concerned about work ethics. I have never felt out of place and that is why I have been here this long. The level of professionalism is more important and people do not pick on you for being non-Australian,” he says.

Recalling the time when he felt stumped as he was asked to specify his nationality, he remembered approaching his Australian supervisor who told him amicably, “You are a bloody Australian, mate!” He asserts that he has never missed out on promotions or felt any racial vilification – a question that is often posed by Reg’s friends.

“I am now seeing a lot of diversity in the ADF because it has been more proactive and has always targetted people from different backgrounds,” says Reg, who is also a grandfather with two step children – a role which he loves dearly.

“I would always encourage more Indian Australians to join the Defence, if they are interested. I don’t think you should stop yourself because you are Indian. But it’s good to research the lifestyle and the travel that it entails. Joining the ADF is a very big change in life and lifestyle that does require some sacrifice, but in the end the reward of a challenging and exciting career outweighs these small sacrifices. The individual needs to join for the right reason and not as a means to an end. Being in the ADF is more than a job, it is vocation,” he maintains, adding “The ADF is like your extended family, and it is the people who make the Defence what it is.”

Reg has thought about returning to India many times, but the Australian lifestyle has always held him back and he hopes to continue serving for the next 13 years, until his retirement.

You’re a bloody Australian, mate!

Premier Brumby looks to strengthen Indo-Oz ties

It was India’s Independence Day celebrations and Jawaharlal Nehru’s famous ‘Tryst with destiny’ speech surfaced again, this time in an address made by Premier John Brumby at Parliament Hall in Melbourne.

Quoting India’s first Prime Minister Mr. Brumby said, “At the stroke of the midnight hour when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom”. According to Mr. Brumby, these famous words by Jawaharlal Nehru were a very powerful statement and they were delivered at a great moment in the world’s history. “They were just a step and an opening for many great triumphs and achievements to come, and Mr. Nehru was correct. There have been many achievements and triumphs to talk about since then; however the best is yet to come,” he added.

Mr. Brumby remarked on how the Parliament Hall is the centre of democracy in Victoria, making it the best place to celebrate the independence of the world’s greatest democracy, India. Addressing an audience of select invitees from within the Indian community, Mr. Brumby touched on the strength of Indian Australian relationship and the need to further build cultural, investment and trade opportunities between the two nations. “We are proud of the contribution made by the Indian community in Victoria and we want the community to grow. We will overcome challenges like the recent incidents of violence against Indian students with the help of people from the community, its leaders and various organizations,” he said.

Mr. Brumby also announced the recent appointment of Mrs. Madhu Bhatia as a Victorian Multicultural Commissioner. Mrs. Bhatia has lived in various parts of the world including India, the USA, China, Bahrain, Iran, Syria and Germany. She arrived in Melbourne in 1996 and currently serves as a convener and board member for Harmony Australia, where she works to identify issues and challenges faced by international students in Melbourne. “She will bring fresh insight and cross cultural understanding to the Parliament with her experience of living in different countries around the world,” said Mr. Brumby.

The Queens Hall within the Parliament

House proudly displayed life size photographs of members of the local Indian community who have made Australia home. Some of the photographs by Michelle Lawrence will be on display in Federation Square in September and then sent to in New Delhi where they will be displayed in Australian High Commission in India from November this year, according to Mr. Brumby.

The Consul General of India Miss Anita Nayar wrapped up the formal proceedings with a farewell note to the community as her tenure in Melbourne is soon coming to an end. “This is perhaps the last time I will address such a distinguished audience,” she said “I just want to say one thing to

MELBOURNE LUXURY CUSTOM TOURS

ABN: 44 844 840 170

Try us for a premium Victorian touring experience with the following features:

• Personalised luxury tours by BMW or Mercedes vehicle

• Tours will be customised as per your requirements

• Tours cover Melbourne and tourist attractions within Victoria

• Can cater for all age groups but specialise in mature or elderly

• Indian tour operator – hence ideally suited for your relatives or friends visiting from India or overseas or if you are an Australian resident touring Victoria

• Meals may or may not be included at your option

• Admission Fees to tourist attractions [if applicable] may or may not be included at your option

If interested, call us on 0423 001 508

people who have made Australia home. We expect you to be ambassadors of India in Australia. We would like you to be the real, living bridge between the two countries and hope that you will help others adopt what is good about Australia. I hope to come back some day and would like to see how you have grown and flourished in that time. I wish you a happy Independence Day,” she concluded, raising a toast the Queen and the heads of two nations.

The rest of the evening saw the Premier meet up with people on an individual basis and pose for photographs with them. The event was held prior to the elections and judging by the divided votes and uncertainty around this year’s Federal elections and a challenging State election in November, Mr. Brumby may need the Ganesha idol that was presented to him to ward off any unpleasant surprises.

Preeti Jabbal

Students to access range of services via IPEAL

Representatives from across the education industry along with students gathered to celebrate the opening of the IPEAL office on Level 10, 123 Queen Street Melbourne recently. Speeches by Tony Lupton MP, Cabinet Secretary and Peter Hall, Shadow Minister for Tertiary Education, Skills & Workforce Participation and Leader of the Nationals in the Legislative Council confirmed that this was a step in the right direction, to offer a recognized and industry-supported support framework to international students who choose Australia as their destination for education.

IPEAL (International Private Education Alliance Limited) is a not-for-profit membership-based organisation set up to enhance the welfare of students and to provide forums for, and advocacy on behalf of its members and the private education industry. IPEAL is governed by a Board of Directors and operates through memberships, subscriptions, sponsorships, donations and volunteer services.

The aims of IPEAL are to enhance the welfare of students of all member organisations by organising social inclusion activities, student support services and academic monitoring services as well as facilitating ongoing consultation with all stakeholders within the private education sector.

Membership is open to private Registered Training Organisations (RTOS), Education Agents (who have been in operation for at least three years), and their elected student representatives. If a student’s college or agent is an IPEAL member, the student is entitled to basic support services. All referral services of IPEAL are free and third party services may be free or fee for service depending up on the type and level of service.

IPEAL’s range of services include free referral services, welfare and support counselling, social inclusion activities, listing and access to free welfare services offered by the Federal, State and other not-for-profit organizations, access to IPEAL forums, recreational activities, study seminars, discussion forums, cultural and community activities, legal support including free advice and options, referrals for

the areas of social inclusion, student support and academic monitoring. There is also a requirement to provide a more focused forum for the different stakeholders in private education – students, private RTOs, and education agents – to enhance student welfare, and for all stakeholders to interact and learn. IPEAL has taken the lead to be the first organisation of its kind (sadly with no government funding) and will no doubt play a crucial role in shaping the future of this vital industry.

Student issues highlighted by visiting Minister

The Indian Minister of State for External Affairs, Preneet Kaur recently visited Sydney and Melbourne to review and gain first hand knowledge about the problems with Indian international students studying in Australia. She was in the region attending the Pacific Island’s Forum. The Victorian Sikh Association (VSA) organised a visit to the Blackburn Gurudwara Sahib, and Ms. Kaur won the hearts of attendees with her eloquence and understated elegance. Accompanying her were the High Commissioner of India, Ms. Sujatha Singh and Consul General of India in Melbourne, Ms. Anita Nayar as well as members of the VSA. Preneet Kaur is current Maharani of Patiala and wife of Maharaja Amarinder Singh of Patiala, and a member of the 15th Lok Sabha, represetnting Patiala of Punjab. She is currently serving as the Minister of State for External Affairs with the Government of India.

Mr. Harvin Dhillon, President of the VSA welcomed Ms. Kaur and requested her assistance and support in taking forward new projects of the VSA such as the Indian community centre which has been a goal the organisation has been striving for.

Ms. Preneet Kaur addressed the crowd in Punjabi and expressed her admiration for the way we live together as a community, welcoming new students with open arms and demonstrating support in any which

so she could interact with the community in person and discover ways in which she can assist and support. Ms. Kaur expressed grave concerns on the issue of racism against Indian students in Victoria and the media frenzy that ensued in both countries, particularly India. She recalled the time when an advisory notice was issued to young Indians to not visit Australia and the pressure they applied on the Australian government to find the reasons behind the attacks. She further advised that the Australian government has been investigating these cases since the meeting between Foreign Minister SM Krishna and his counterpart in London. Issues of

were a part of the discussion too. Ms. Kaur ended her speech extending an invitation to the officials of the VSA to keep in touch through the Consul General and provided assurance of support in any form within the boundaries of her role, beyond which she is eager to play a facilitation role.

Manpreet Singh, a representative of SBS Radio took the attendees through the final journey of the ashes of Indian immigrant Pooran Singh in Australia, returned to his homeland 63 years after his death. Pooran

Singh arrived in Australia as a 30-year-old from Bilga, a village in Punjab and spent the remaining 47 years of his life in Victoria, dying in 1947 in Warrnambool, aged 77. Pooran’s wish that his ashes should be returned to India to be immersed in the Ganges was finally fulfilled, after the funeral home retained the ashes for 63 years. Kapil Dev, veteran Indian cricketer and Manpreet Singh accompanied Pooran’s ashes back to India. Preneet Kaur presented some memorabilia from Pooran Singh’s house in India.

Ms. Kaur also met with students and shared one-onone conversations with them regarding the daily issues they face in Australia and explored options through which she be able to assist. As for the others, it was a regular Sunday at the Gurudwara, where a langar after worship was the order of the day – just as usual!

Later that evening an impromptu reception was held in honour Maharani Preneet Kar at the FIAV office in Foster Street, Dandenong jointly hosted by the FIAV, Federation Of Indian Woman’s Associations in Australia (FIWAA), Australia India Society Of Victoria (AISV) and Australia India Business Council (AIBC).

Pinky Bhatia

Pinky Bhatia

Attendees at the ITEAL launch

Preneet Kaur at the reception (Right) Gurudwara visit

India of another age

SHIVANGI AMBANI-GANDHI on TheIndianEmpire, a new exhibition at AGNSW

“Everyone in India seems to know Jim. Every where we went, someone would be calling out, Jimji!” said Jackie Menzies, head curator of Asian Art at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, at the opening of The Indian Empire: Multiple Realities

She was referring to Dr. Jim Masselos, whose large collection of India-related material - The Portvale Collection - forms the core of The Indian Empire exhibition which continues until November 7, 2010. Menzies’ observation should not come as a surprise to those who know of Dr Masselos’ intensive travel over 40 years across India, London and Australia, building up this collection. On display are materials covering 200 years - from the 1700s to the 21st century which follow the cultural dialogue that occurred between the colonizers, the British and the colonised Indians. The British response to India is captured in texts, books, prints and photographs, while the Indians adopted lithography and photography alongside their existing traditions. The exhibition begins with a range of early maps of Indian regions. Interestingly, these capture not just the topographical features with beautiful detail, but also document

the centres of military, administrative and religious (Christian) power. Alongside, are the earliest images from when the British first encountered the vibrant and often bizarre customs and traditions of Indian people. Images here range from multiheaded deities to the custom of sati

In the same section, is a work by an unknown artist from Kutch in Gujarat, depicting what is meant to be St Paul’s Cathedral - only in the artist’s imagination, the gargoyles seem to have turned into soldiers on the roof, and the people are depicted wearing Chinese-style hats, while a stylised cloud floats over the scene. This image goes to show that just as the English were creating exotic imagery of India, the Indians too were imagining their European ‘other’.

varied regions as well as landscape images including one of the Taj Mahal and another of the Elephanta Caves in Mumbai. These images, when seen together, evoke a vivid image of India of the time.

Another important part of the Portvale Collection on display as part of the exhibition is the textile section, which includes wall hangings, cholis, odhnis and purses - all beautifully handcrafted, embroidered in varied hues with shimmering mirror-work from the regions of Kutch and Saurashtra in India.

….just as the English were creating exotic imagery of India, the Indians too were imagining their European ‘other’

These works are followed by works which belong to the Company School - so named because they were often commissioned by employees of the East India Company. These include images of Indian people from

However, the major focus of the Portvale Collection and this exhibition is photography. These photographs capture the lives of the colonials as well as the Indian princes, artisans, military and civilian personnel - capturing a vivid picture of the everyday in India at the time. The photographs also include some beautiful landscapes as well as some family albums in black and white.

Also included in this section are some very

interesting, and often humorous illustration books created for the public in Britain who may have never visited the exotic colony. A page from Indian Spices for English Tables for instance, takes a dig at the local shipping practices.

The story of the Indian Empire ends with the Indians’ adoption of lithography and photography - in this exhibition, mainly captured through the works of artists Raja Ravi Verma and Pushpamala N. Verma’s prints depicting Hindu deities and historical heroes in kitschy, saturated colours. Pushpamala N. with Clare Arni, on the other hand, mediates on the history of photography as a tool used to identify native peoples. This project, Native Women of South India, illustrates the choreography and spectacle involved in early anthropological studies, by re-enacting stereotypes of women. Among the ten photographs from this series on display, is one of the (in) famous Indian politician Jayalalitha posing as Hunterwali in Cracking the Whip

The Indian Empire: Multiple Realities will continue at the Art Gallery of New South Wales until November 7, 2010. Entry is free.

Talent search unearths musical gems

The talent of making music is not a hereditary “heirloom”, but rather a gift found within an exceptional few. Thus, the search for new talent is an arduous task at best.

Young artists offer precocious performances

July and August have been extremely busy months in the classical performing arts calendar, with every weekend taken up by performances all across Melbourne. Of these, two mrudanga arangetrams were held involving three students of Ravichandhira’s Sruti Laya Kendra/Academy of Indian Music recently at the George Wood Performing Arts Centre.

Pragadeesh

Shanmugarajah’s debut concert on July 10 bore all the hallmarks of a polished concert. Barely 15, he did his gurus Krishnan Parthasarathi and Ravichandhira proud, and he held his own against a seasoned vocal artiste of a very high caliber, Smt Padmini Ravi from India. His training in vocal music must have stood him in good stead, as Pragadeesh was able to anticipate and respond to the vocalist admirably; he had his vocal arangetram not that long ago. Smt Padmini Ravi was accompanied on the violin by Dr Hemalatha Rangarajan (who is the younger sister of the well known Mambalam sisters).

The arangetram of cousins Branavan and Nishanthan, held on August 28, stood out both on account of the simply brilliant violin music of the Akkarai sisters, and the lively mrudangam from the debut duo.

The Akkarai Sisters mesmerized the audience with such soulful, superb music that Branavan and Nishanthan had their work cut out. However, like professional artistes, they did not, for a moment, flinch or skip a beat and remained focused on their percussion accompaniment. They complemented the violins so unobtrusively, yet blended well with the music that one sometimes forgot it was their arangetram. Their ‘tani avartanam’ (solo mrudangam rendition) at the end of the kamboji number was

What’s On

Sahitya Sandhya

4 September, 7.30 to 10.30pm at Kew Library , Corner of Cotham Road and Civic Dr. Kew 3101, Melway ref 45 D6. Literary evening of poetry, short stories, jokes and personal experiences. Free entry with refreshments. For further information contact Harihar Jha 95554924; Subhash Sharma 0433178377 or Nalin Sharda 0402 108 512 http://sahityasangam.weebly.com/

Inaugural festival of Indian classical music

10 September, 8pmm onwards at Studio 1, Northcote Town Hall, High St. Fresh,

captivating.

Laya Vidhya Centre’s annual concert was held at the Chandler Community Centre recently and it was a celebration and feast of mrudangam and percussion in all its forms. The students – at different stages of learning – performed with a range of Melbourne’s vocalists and instrumentalists, displaying their ability to handle a variety of talas and tempos. As always, the most interesting and captivating item was the percussion ensemble where more than 20 mrdangists performed in unison, climaxing in the crescendo that had everyone in their thrall.

A rather different kind of concert was presented by the brother and sister duo Samrakshana and Keshav Ramachandran, also at the Chandler Community Centre. They are the very young students of the well known Melbourne Carnatic music aficionado Prof G Narasimhan. The children (for that is what they are) are so precocious in this classical music form that it must have prompted their teacher to showcase their talents for all to see.

The concert included quite a few of Prof GN’s own compositions besides those of Thyagaraja, Swati Tirunal and Purandaradasa. Prof GN could not have chosen a better medium through which to demonstrate his musical abilities, for the children rendered several of their guru’s kritis with a deep feeling (bhava) for their lyrics. Prof GN himself spoke on the subject of Symbolism in Hinduism and Musical Overture, and released his Memoirs on the occasion. The performers must be commended on such a wonderful achievement at such a tender age. Hearing them sing was proof that music is truly a God-given gift; something that is to be cherished. Mrudangam accompaniment was provided by Bevan Elankumaran and violin was by Anita Das.

Chitra Sudarshan

exciting interpretations of North and South Indian classical music with Tihai3 and Shobha Sekhar. For information call Girish 0411 018 209 or 9417 3550

Saaz Aur Aawaz

11 September, 8-11pm at Mount Street Neighborhood house, 6 Mount Street , Glen Waverly, Mel Ref: 71 D2. Enter from Panoramic Gv park. Light Indian music program presented by local artists. Free entry. Contact Satish Dutta on 0418179122 for more details

Sangam Kala Group Australia (SKGA) Inc. is an independent, non-profit incorporated association affiliated to the Sangam Kala Group, India which has been providing a platform to talented performers for the past 33 years. The SKG has showcased some rather notable artistes such as Sonu Nigam, Sunidhi Chauhan, Penaz Masani, Shreya Ghoshal, Jaspinder Narula, Vipin Aneja among others. To further their pursuit of musical excellence and to bring new talent to the fore, the president of SKGA organised a singing talent search on August 8 in Ashburton. The event attracted around sixty extremely talented participants.

Vice president of the Telegu Association, Trinath Ponnaganti, Secretary Anu Munuganti and member Ravi Kumar Rajgopal were present to begin the ceremony. Anu Munuganti congratulated the SKGA, now running in its fifth consecutive year and also offered words of encouragement to the participants. She also appreciated Surtarag’s efforts in enhancing India’s language and culture by offering an opportunity to singers to be recognized and to display their talent in the limelight. Mr. Trinath Ponnaganti added that the event provided an excellent forum in bringing various communities together through celebrating musical talent.

As this was a contest of vocal prowess, Mr. Nawal Modugil, President of Surtarang Australia said that the final decision of the contest would be made by Surtarang, India after careful judgement. The group recognizes that young music talent is like an “uncut gem” that needs extensive “polishing” in the form of opportunity, training and recognition to display its true brilliance. The objective of SKGA is to sustain and promote Indian music, dance, drama and related cultural activities including Bollywood entertainment to people of all origin in the cultural melting pot that is Australia.

The Sangam Kala Group in India began its musical journey in 1974, with the prime objective of bringing forth amateur talent from the masses and promoting the richness of India’s arts and cultural heritage. The growing popularity of fusion music, both vocal and instrumental, are indicative that multiculturalism and globalization are influencing tastes and creativity in music worldwide. SKGA hopes to provide a suitable platform for those individuals who love to experiment with music and who want to explore new horizons across international boundaries. The team at SKGA consists of like-minded individuals who are keen on promoting India’s artistic and cultural traditions in Australia. Through its 18 regional chapters within Australia, SKGA aims

Taste of India 2010

12 September, 4.30pm onwards. A multicultural arts ensemble, standing testimony to the ‘unity in diversity’ of migrants and the local population. Flavours from India, Greece, China, Egypt and Turkey. For tickets call Ganga 0421903 357, 84708280

Samarpan Meditation

15-22 September, 6pm- 8pm (16th Sept: 2.30pm-4.30pm) at Shri Shirdi Sai Sansthan, 32 Halley Avenue, Camberwell, Melbourne VIC 3124. Free course to experience the spiritual benefits of Samarpan

Meditation, followed by bhojan Prasad. All are welcome. Please reserve places now. Contact: Rashmi Kapoor 98081332; Amit Vekariya 0430200609; Namrata Mistri 0433695971; Mr Uddyan Sharma 0413499563

Mehfil Night

17 September, 8-10pm at Coburg Library Hall, Cnr: Luisa and Victoria Street, Coburg. Dr.Sraddha Reddy will present nostalgic ghazals, with tabla support by Gogi. Free entry. For more details call Dr. Saratchandran 93665444

Samrakshana and Keshav

Pragadeesh’s debut concert

Think before you travel

A social media-driven campaign has just been launched to improve situational awareness among international students in Australia.

MAMTA SHARMA reports

Leaving home to study overseas not only brings great rewards but new life challenges as well. You have to adapt fairly quickly to new accents and new ways of doing things, and are always learning new things and meeting new people. Your studies and parttime job keep you busy.

An important thing among all these to be aware of, is your new environment. Many of the 650,000 overseas students in Australia are not accustomed to the danger signs in the country’s urbanised society and some have been placing themselves in high risk situations, an example being the recent attacks on Indian students in the country.

Traditional forms of communication to warn students to be aware of their surroundings have had limited success, so the Victoria Police and key stakeholders have elected to try a new digital approach, an international student safety campaign called Think Before: A Student Safety Initiative (www.thinkbefore.com).

Designed to sharpen safety skills when travelling late at night on public transport, and to plan their travel, Think Before delivers the message to students via the media with which they spend most of their time –online, social networking channels such as Facebook, Twitter, video sharing sites such as YouTube and SMS - to promote engagement and viral distribution.

The safety messages have been packaged

into an animated video clip for both online and mobile distribution to international students in Australia and abroad. The animation, which features the culturally neutral student character, ‘George’, uses a non-confrontational approach to convey core behaviours that will help students avoid threatening situations.

In the 60-second clip, we see George encounter a series of incidents in which his attention is anywhere but where it should be. Listening to his iPod, he walks alone down a dark alley, waits for half an hour on a deserted platform, rides in an empty train carriage while using his laptop (and still wearing his iPod!), and is followed out of the station by two thugs. Along the way, with nothing more than luck on his side, George avoids becoming a victim of crime. At the end of the clip, George’s efforts to impress two girls are thwarted when he drops his kebab filling on his lap, prompting the campaign tagline: ‘Feeling lucky? Think Before you Travel.’ The animation was tested in independently-moderated focus groups of international students from diverse backgrounds in May 2010 by research company Reality Check. This research study found that the students endorsed the creative and media strategy.

It is hoped international students will view the video and read key messages, and then share the information with fellow students.

The mobile strategy includes a mobile site and free iPhone and Android applications so students can easily pass the seven safety tips on to increase reach and engagement.

When asked if the campaign was not indirectly promoting the idea of an unsafe Australia to international students as they are particularly being focused for the campaign, Mr Larry Anderson, Head of Business, Australia Network said, “Abosultely not.. When you grow in your own city, you generally become aware of the places that are unsafe to go to at night or other risky areas of travel as you get that information over the years when you read or hear about it on TV and from your parents. Whereas when a student comes to a country to study from overseas, he is unaware about which places to go to and which to avoid. The Think Before campaign aims to help them with the basic information such as avoiding traveling alone, keeping valuables such as mobile phones, laptops and MP3 players out of sight which will help them stay safe during their stay here”.

“When we started the campaign the focus was on Indian students in the wake of the attacks on them in Victoria but during consultations at the various student workshops we conducted, students from other countries like China, Honk Kong etc, felt that the campaign should target international students from all nationalities as the safety messages will be equally beneficial and appropriate for them as well,” added Mr Anderson.

More than 50 country/language-specific social media platforms that are popular among international students have been targeted. Taking just a few examples in selected countries: China (51.com, Chungo, Kaixin001, Netease, QZone, Renren, Sina, Sohu, Tianji, Tianya, Taisha, Tigtag, Xiaonei, Zhanzuo); Hong Kong (Discuss, UWant); India (Bharat Student, Hi5, NGOPOST, Orkut); Indonesia (FUPEI, Kafe Gaul, Kaskus, OZMate); Japan (2Channel, Gree, Mixi); Malaysia (eKewan, Ruumz); the Philippines (Eskwela, Ok Pare); Saudi Arabia (brg8, hawaaworld, Te3p); Singapore (FunkyGrad, Plurk); South America (badoo, Orkut, taringa.net); South Korea (CyWorld,

George’s key safety message

1. Whenever possible travel in groups. Risk is created by travelling alone.

2. Keep valuables such as mobile phones, laptops and MP3 players out of sight and stay aware of your surroundings when travelling on public transport.

3. Outside of peak times and at night travel in the front carriage of the train with the driver. Where possible do not travel in empty carriages.

4. Check public transport timetables in advance. Avoid long waits on platforms and around public transport hubs. If you do have a long wait stay in well lit areas or near open shops.

5. Walk in well lit areas even if it means your trip is longer.

6. Avoid short cuts through dark isolated areas.

7. If you feel threatened in any way while walking on the street go to a shop or a house with its lights on (if at night) and ask for police to be contacted.

Available in English and 13 other languages including Hindi, Punjabi, simplified Chinese, traditional Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Thai, Vietnamese, Indonesian, Arabic, Spanish, Portuguese and Nepalese.

Daum Café, Naver Café, Renren); Taiwan (Buboo, Wretch); Thailand (Dek-d, Pantip, Sanook).

Think Before is also targeting non-country specific social media sites in various languages including Facebook, Friendster, Hi5, Jaiku, Linked-In, MySpace, Plurk, Pownce and Twitter.

The Think Before animation has also been uploaded to video sharing sites in a variety of languages including YouTube, Photobucket, Metacafe, Vimeo, Yahoo Video and Daily Motion. To aid users in accessing the information and sharing, social bookmarking sites such as Digg, StumbleUpon, BuzzFeed and Yahoo Buzz are also being employed.

Think Before is one of many safety awareness initiatives authored and promoted by police across all states and territories in Australia to help improve the safety of international students. Stakeholders from a wide variety of agencies including Victoria Police, ISANA, Australia Network, government, education and industry have contributed both funds and in-kind services to support it.

To further facilitate the campaign, educational institutions have been invited to promote the initiative to their students, partners and agents.

So far, Anderson revealed, there has been a good response to the campaign that was launched on August 6.

“Many high schools in Australia too have shown interest to promote the campaign among their students as well,” he added.

Australia is a great place to live and study, but it is different from home. Like most big cities around the world it pays to be aware of your surroundings. Being aware will help deliver a positive student experience when studying in Australia. So pay attention to your surroundings, and most importantly, think before you travel. Look after yourself and stay safe.

Rajni comes to App Store

A Sydney fan of southern superstar Rajnikanth launches a new iPhone game. USHA RAMANUJAM ARVIND

For game geeks hitherto preoccupied with puzzles and poker, the gravity defying dishum dishum, ‘namma thalapathi’ ishtyle could well be the new kid on the block as Rajni mania hits Appletown.

Rated 12+, Rajnikanth for iPhone is Sydney based FX trader Chaitanya Kolluri’s maiden offering on the hotly contested app scene. Currently supported on iPhone 3Gs, iPhone 4 and iPad hardware platforms, it is a 2D side scrolling, arcade action game, where the player dons the mantle of the adhiraddi action hero and battles through 15 challenging levels.

Each level has a different setting and new kind of enemy. Cultural references to blockbusters like Padayyappa, Muthu, Chandramukhi and the upcoming Endhiran have been built into it.

The script (in Chandamama fairytale style, according to Kolluri) is set in the ancient empire of Vijayanagaram, where its troubled king Chandrahaas loses his powers. An old sadhu enlists the services of the megastar to salvage the nation.

“While I have always enjoyed playing on PS3 and Xbox, iPhone App development is a very recent hobby of mine”, the investment banker and self confessed game console junkie told Indian Link

An ardent devotee of the iconic southern superstar, Kolluri decided to combine the two entertainment genres to plug the void, in what is clearly a niche market.

“The App Store had very few applications that culturally related to Indian audience and the more popular apps were games. So

The script (in Chandamama fairytale style, according to Kolluri) is set in the ancient empire of Vijayanagaram, where its troubled king Chandrahaas loses his powers. An old sadhu enlists the services of the megastar to salvage the nation

I hit upon the plan of creating something unique that was entertaining and sat comfortably between these parameters”, he said.

As a die-hard fan of Rajnikanth, an app to showcase his unmatched style, cool image, and screen aura, was an instant fit for my ambition, he explained.

The app, which was released on 25 August, has been eight months in the making. From visuals to soundtrack, platforms to programming, the talented developer carefully researched, conceived and executed it all.

An app with entertaining Rajni dialogues was Kolluri’s initial plan. He therefore created a stylish caricature using PowerPoint and placed it on an app interface.

“It was then I realised that I was capable of drawing animation cells with better than average skill. I kept at it for a few weekends seeking honest feedback from friends and family. They were stunned by the detailed stylisation and facial expression,” he revealed.

Soon what started as hobby, became a controlling passion and inanimate images weren’t quite enough. Banking on Rajni’s huge repertoire, Kolluri was able to capture his inimitable style and movements through visuals.

“After watching a fight scene from Padayyappa, I became interested in making a full fledged action game.”

Executing his grand schemes proved a logistically daunting task though, he admitted.

“I didn’t know Objective C programming and lacked the resources. The goal seemed more suitable to small game production houses with several developers, each focusing on a key aspect of the game. Even the people who praised my initial art didn’t quite understand what I aimed to achieve. After all, I’m an amateur and it was

very challenging on an alien platform”. Extensive research and networking finally led him to all the right resources. And Kolluri soon launched www. avvesome.com, a micro studio group and developer brand name under which his Apps are available at the App Store.

From there on, it was a relentless task of bringing it all together. The movie enthusiast couldn’t be more delighted with the outcome.

“I have had loads of fun over the last eight months developing it and even more playing it daily. I really hope people like it”, says the game junkie.

With the superstar’s Endhiran (Robot) slated for global release in mid September, the action packed thriller Rajnikanth for iPhone is a dedication and tribute to his icon.

And quite like his thalaivar, Kolluri hopes to capture a global following.

Watch the trailer at www.youtube.com watch?v=yWpm3lubHWg

Check out the new app at http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/rajnikanth

App developer Chaitanya Kolluri

World first for UNSW stem cell researchers

Dr

and his team flag new hope for long-term sufferers of neuro-degenerative disorders

USHA RAMANUJAM ARVIND reports

Dr Kuldip Sidhu and his research team at UNSW’s prestigious Stem Cell Lab have clocked another path-breaking milestone.

In a world first, they have created induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from human skin without genetic manipulation or use of viruses.

This vital step, in what has been a long and controversial journey for stem cell technologists, could eventually lead to a viable treatment for long-term sufferers of debilitating neuro-degenerative diseases.

Currently diseases like Parkinson and Alzheimer’s, which are caused by the destruction of specific neural cells, have no cure.

“There are at least 80,000 sufferers in Australia alone and the burden on our national health budget is huge”, said Dr Sidhu, director of the Stem Cell Lab.

Alleviating their suffering and providing a cure will be not only be deeply satisfying personally but also a welcome step for all

humanity, he added.

According to him, an “effective way to treat these diseases would be to replace those deprived cells in the brain with fresh cells by future cell therapy. And the development of such autologous cell therapy with iPSCs will create a potent pathway to cure these diseases”.

The immediate use of such cells nevertheless will be in drug discovery and toxicological studies in the laboratory, he predicts.

Explaining the complex process, Dr Sidhu told Indian Link that iPSC technology offers an opportunity to produce pluripotent stem cells that are “patient specific”.

“By bypassing the need to use viral particles or genetic manipulation, the fear of mutations like cancer is almost negligible, thus removing a major hurdle in its therapeutic use”, he added.

With this remarkable breakthrough, scientists have now begun work on using

Casual journalists

working on Huntington, Alzheimer and Parkinson’s stem cell lines, Sidhu indicated. Significantly, this discovery is a welcome, ethical alternative to the controversial embryonic stem cells, which are more prone to immune rejection.

However it is too early to assume if iPSC is the preferred alternative, he warned, because they exhibit variability and instability in culture. The next step is to make these cells suitable for long-term propagation and therefore suitable to therapeutic use.

So what are iPSCs and how do they work?

In a two-stage process, e pithelial cells from a patient are taken and reprogrammed to pluripotent capabilities (previously done by viral particles with foreign genes exposing them to risk of mutagenesis). Since such cells are directly derived from the patient, therapeutic cells developed in the process will not be rejected when transplanted back (autologous therapy).

The iPS cells are treated to resemble embryonic stem cells in that they have the ability to regenerate and form into virtually any cell in the human body.

Japanese scientists first used the technique in 2007 to circumvent the role of embryonic stem cells. However the process relied on the use of lentiviruses, raising concerns about introduction of viral DNA sequences into the genome of the recipient cells.

The international scientific community has already welcomed the UNSW findings and Dr Sidhu hopes it will provide fresh impetus for increased collaborations.

“Our research is still in the discovery phase but positively looking into the future. A number of foreign labs are keen

Significantly, this discovery is a welcome, ethical alternative to the controversial embryonic stem cells, which are more prone to immune rejection

to participate with us and it is all very promising”, he indicated.

Developing any new therapy, particularly cell therapy takes time ensuring that all the safety, efficacy and other ethical issues are addressed appropriately.

“With the current pace in this area of research, I would anticipate some positive cellular therapeutics within the decade,” he added optimistically.

Setbacks if at all are primarily Australia’s lack of strong R&D focus, he lamented.

Most big biotech and pharmaceuticals are off shore. “We urgently need to strengthen out transitional and translational research (bench to bedside) so that patients are helped quickly here. Likewise, any new area of research needs more funding to get off the ground quickly and new initiatives in national funding on dementia and stem cell research will be imperative to move this field forward quickly”, he pointed out.

Dr Sidhu who graduated from Punjab has been involved with assisted mammalian reproduction for nearly three decades. He was introduced to stem cell technology by pioneers Bernie Tuch and James Thompson. After moving to Australia, he helped found the stem cell lab at the Prince of Wales Hospital and later UNSW. He was also instrumental in developing the first human embryonic stem cell lines (heSC) Endeavour 1 & 2, both of which are protected by international patents.

“Stem cell biology is a fascinating new field and will revolutionise our understanding and our approach towards human health”, Dr Sidhu forecasts.

Dr Kuldip Sidhu

Dengue cases on the rise in New Delhi, total at total 1,370 Dengue cases continue to rise unabated in the national capital with 75 new cases of the vector-borne disease reported recently, taking the number of those infected to 1,370 so far.

A Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) official said that while 1,349 cases were from the city, 21 cases were from outside. Three people have succumbed to the vector borne disease so far in the city.

He said the central and south zones have been the worst affected with reports of 201 and 224 cases, respectively.

The indefinite strike by over 1,500 mosquito-breeding checkers could hamper anti-dengue operations and fogging measures in the capital.

The capital has been reporting an average of 70 dengue cases reported daily over the past few days.

Delhi reported 548 cases of dengue in 2007, 1,312 in 2008 and 1,153 in 2009.

Municipal Corporation of Delhi’s (MCD) chief medical officer N.K. Yadav said, “We only take into account the cases tested for dengue using the Elisa test. Private hospitals generally don’t conduct this test as it is expensive, so we will not take their cases into account.”

Dengue is transmitted by the bite of the aedes mosquito. High fever for 4-5 days is usually accompanied by severe headache, pain in eyes, muscle and joint pain and rashes. After the fever goes away, the blood platelet counts start dipping, which is the most dangerous phase of the disease and requires monitoring.

The dengue situation in the national capital seems alarmingly similar to the 2006 outbreak, when 3,366 cases of the deadly fever were reported along with 36 deaths, doctors said.

Officials of the National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP), which monitors and prevents vector borne diseases in the country, accepted that the number of dengue cases was alarmingly high in Delhi.

“There is a dengue outbreak in the city. Dengue cases will be under-reported as they (health agencies) take only confirmed cases which tested positive using the NS-1 antigen test. A total 33 government hospitals and other private hospitals are continuously checking the patients,” A.C. Dhariwal, director, NVBDCP said.

In 2006, when dengue outbreak was declared in the city, just 19 cases were reported from Delhi till Aug 27, he said.

Ringing the alarm bell, doctors from private hospitals said dengue cases this season have increased manifold as compared to the last three years.

“As compared to 2006, this year the incidence of this vector borne disease will be more, as even after the cases are being under-reported the total is 741. If we conduct proper surveys, the figure will touch thousands,” a doctor of a south Delhi private hospital said.

He added that in September the number of dengue cases may increase manifold.

New format unveiled for IPL, to be played with 10 teams in two groups

The Indian cricket board has unveiled a new format for the next season of the Indian Premier League (IPL), with the 10 teams split into two groups and the cap on team spending increased to $9 million.

The fourth season of the IPL will have 10 teams after the addition of two new teams. There will be 74 matches in total, compared to 60 earlier this year.

The format needed to be changed after

inclusion of two new franchises -- Pune Warriors and Kochi.

There will be 70 league matches and four play off matches with each team having the same number of matches (14 in total - 7 home and 7 away) as in the previous IPL editions, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said in a statement after the meeting of the IPL Governing Council.

There will be one league table with teams divided into two groups of five teams each.

Each team would play the other four teams in its group twice (home and away), four of the five teams in the other group once (home or away) and one of the five teams in the other group twice (home and away).

The groups will be decided by a random draw, and similarly, which team will play the other from the other group twice or once will also be decided by a random draw.

This ensures all franchises will have the same number of matches at home as in the previous editions.

Teams are allowed to retain four players in their squads from the last event -- a maximum of three Indians and two foreigners.

The cap for each team to spend on the players at the auction was raised to $9 million from the $7 million.

The number of overseas players in the squad will be 10 with no more that four in the team.

Uncapped Indian players will now be getting Rs.1 million per annum if the player has not played or first played Ranji Trophy (first class or List A) in the 2009-10 or 201011 seasons.

It will be Rs.2 million per annum if the player has played Ranji Trophy (First class or List A) in the 2006-07, 2007-08 or 2008-09 seasons and Rs.3 million if the player first played Ranji Trophy (First class or List A) in the 2005-06 or earlier seasons.

As for the retention of players, up to four players per franchise may be signed for retention of which only up to three shall be Indian players and the squad size has been restricted to 30.

The board said it will manage all player contracts directly.

“All player contracts will now be managed

by BCCI and signed by BCCI along with the franchise and the player. A new player registration and contract management process will be detailed soon. No player contracts can be signed until then. Player regulation for 2011 season will be circulated soon to all franchisees which will detail the player contract, registration and signing process,” BCCI secretary N. Srinivasan said

in a statement.

Also, the catchment areas have been revised and this will be now aligned according to the association instead of a states. Pune can pick its team from the Maharashtra and Vidarbha Cricket Associations while Kochi has been alloted the Kerala and Madhya Pradesh associations.

Continued on page 24

AN INDIAN FIRST: Indian cricket player Sachin Tendulkar smiles as he speaks after receiving the honorary rank of Group Captain of the Indian Air Force in New Delhi, India

Photo: AP the

Data from Chandrayaan moon mission to go public

Voluminous scientific data, including rare images of the moon, from India’s maiden lunar mission Chandrayaan-1 will be made public by the year-end.

“People will have free access to the huge data obtained from our first moon mission on a web portal that will be launched by this year-end,” a senior scientist of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) said.

“The data has been split into two seasons, with the first dealing from November 2008 to February 2009 and the second from March to August 2009. The first season data will be archived by year-end and the second by mid-2011,” said ISRO’s space application centre director B. Gopala Krishna.

A total of 26 gigabytes of data and images will be uploaded after archiving the first season.

The archives will include chemical and mineral mapping, high resolution threedimensional mapping and topographical features.

The state-run ISRO launched the 514 kg mooncraft onboard the polar satellite launch vehicle Oct 22, 2008 from its spaceport Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh, about 80 km northeast of Chennai.

The Rs.3.9-billion Chandrayaan was the first mooncraft to have confirmed the presence of water on the moon.

After a 10-month rendezvous with the earth’s only natural satellite, the mission was terminated Aug 30, 2009 when the space agency’s Deep Space Network (DSN) at Bylalu, about 40 km from here, lost radio contact with Chandrayaan after computers onboard became non-functional.

“Though the dedicated portal will have a catalogue of the data, specific information will be made available for students and scholars pursuing research in space exploration,” Krishna said.

Indian space scientists are currently reviewing the voluminous data, including about 70,000 images relayed to DSN by the 10 scientific instruments Chandrayaan carried to the lunar orbit, about 100 km from the moon’s surface and over 400,000 km from the earth.

“Our scientists from various planetary groups are beginning to peer review the data from 10 of the 11 payloads. The same will be made accessible to the public as the lock-in period for the principal investigators of the mission to analyse will end by December,” Krishna said.

Of the 11 instruments, five were Indian and six were from the US and Europe.

ISRO scientists have used the planetary data system, developed by the USbased National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for preservation and utilisation of the archived information.

“We are also in the process of generating a topographical atlas and a mineralogical atlas of the moon from the data,” Krishna noted.

Detailed mapping of moon’s mineralogy and topography will pave way for further research possibilities.

“We will prepare an atlas of the moon with latitude, longitude, colours of areas, ice water, minerals and terrain from the sheets of topography in the data,” Krishna added. Chandrayaan accomplished 95 percent of its scientific and technological objectives before its mission was called off prematurely. It had been programmed to orbit the moon for nearly two years.

India test fires BrahMos cruise missile

In a first in the military world, the BrahMos cruise missile being jointly developed by

capabilities.

“The missile flew in the designated complex trajectory conducting large manoeuvres and steep dive. This is the first time in the world that a supersonic dive has been realised by a cruise missile,” said BrahMos Aerospace spokesperson Praveen Pathak.

The Indian armed forces termed it a “perfectly precise flight”, he added.

The 290-km range BrahMos missile, which can travel 2.8 times the speed of sound, was tested for the army from the Integrated Test Range of Chandipur in here, some 230 km from Orissa capial Bhubaneswar, director of the test range S.P. Dash said.

“The launch met all mission requirements. It was a 100 percent fantastic launch,” Dash said.

Defence Minister A.K. Antony congratulated the armed forces and the defence scientists associated with the project for the “success”.

The launch was conducted in the presence of Director General of Artillery Lt. Gen. Vinod Nayanar, BrahMos Aerospace

officers from different units of the army.

The sophisticated cruise missile has already been inducted into the Indian army and the navy. The Block-II version capabilities to hit precisely a small target in a cluster of larger targets were demonstrated from Pokhran recently.

“This new capability has made it even more lethal,” Pathak said in a statement.

The BrahMos missile is a two-stage vehicle that has a solid propellant booster and a liquid propellant ramjet system. It can carry conventional warheads up to 300 kg for a range of 290 km.

The cruise missile is capable of being launched from multiple platforms based on land, ships, submarines and aircraft, and currently the focus in on for the development of its air-launched and submarine-launched versions.

India and Russia are jointly designing the BrahMos missile, named after the Brahmaputra (India) and Moskva (Russia) rivers.

A regiment of the BrahMos-I variant, consisting of 67 missiles, five mobile autonomous launchers on 12x12 Tatra

vehicles and two mobile command posts, among other equipment, is already operational with the army.

Delhi sends home 200 beggars Commonwealth Games host city Delhi has sent back to their respective states as many as 200 beggars.

Social Welfare Minister Mangat Ram Singhal has said that these beggars had served their prison sentences. Efforts were on to detain another 600 beggars before the October Games.

He said that he had asked for a weekly report on the drive against begging.

The Indian capital is reportedly home to over 60,000 beggars, and getting them off the streets is proving to be a cat and mouse game for the authorities.

The Tahirpur beggars home, with a capacity for 1,200, is under renovation. Toilets are being readied for more beggars as the drive is intensified.

The anti-begging drive is focussed in areas such as the New Delhi railway station, Connaught Place, India Gate and Khan

The Bombay Prevention of Begging Act, 1959, allows police to detain anyone found begging on the streets.

Orissa coaches tribal students to compete in competititve

Orissa, which has the second highest tribal population in the country, will start hightech coaching progammes from October exclusively for its tribal students to help them compete in tough competitive examinations.

The state government plans to enroll about 1,000-1,500 students of Class 10 and 11 from 19 state-run tribal schools located in the interior areas for the programme. Sanjeev K. Chadha, director of the state Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe Welfare Department, said tribal students who are not enrolled in tribal schools would also be given the training

“Two special classrooms would be set up in government-run higher secondary tribal schools as most of the schools are primarily residential. The schools will be equipped with computers, projectors and liquid crystal display (LCD) boards,” Chadha said.

Students will be provided around 300 hours of coaching by high-quality teachers and instructors, physically or through online and video conferencing. The programme will cost about Rs.3 crore every year, Chadha said, adding that the coaching sessions will include in-depth coverage of all the concepts of physics, chemistry and mathematics.

The project will help students to look beyond industrial training institutes and encourage them to appear in competitive examinations.

The students would be prepared for examinations like the All India Engineering Entrance Examination, (AIEEE), Orissa Joint Entrance Examination (OJEE) and the Indian Institute of Technology-Joint Entrance Examination (IIT-JEE), he said.

“We have already issued a tender to find out a good engineering coaching institute that would provide us the study material. We are likely to finalise this within the next few days,” he said.

“Since the Classes 10 and 11 are located mostly in interior areas and primarily residential, satellite technology will be used to train the students,” said Chadha.

Orissa has the second biggest tribal population in the country. The state has a population of over 36 million, of which more than eight million are tribals, according to the 2001 census. The Scheduled Tribe population is 22.13 percent of the state’s total population.

The percentage of literacy among the

DRESSED IN MILLIONS: Bollywood actress Malaika Arora poses wearing an Orra bustier during a fashion show in New Delhi. The bustier is crafted from over 500 carats of Belgian diamonds and is priced at one million euros

Photo: AP

Scheduled Tribes is 37.37 against the general literacy level of 63.8 percent . When it comes to functional literacy, the percentage is even lower.

The SC/ST Welfare Department will identify students who have the necessary academic background and basic ideas of Class 10-level physics, chemistry and mathematics, he said.

The department will assess the instructors for each school, a minimum of one instructor each for physics, chemistry and mathematics, he said.

The instructors will be assessed for their ability to facilitate classroom coaching and clear the doubts of students on the subjects, he said.

Security measures at CWG venues by Sep 15

Delhi Police will take over all the Commonwealth Games venues by September 15 and initiate security measures to ensure an incident-free sporting event.

“There will be full-fledged security measures in all Games venues by Sep 15. The security check in Commonwealth Games village will be done shortly, a specific date cannot be divulged,” Commonwealth Games Security and Planning Joint Commissioner J.K. Sharma said.

“Even though there is no specific threat to the Games, the security measures were to showcase that we are alert and well prepared for the mega sporting events,” he said. He said once the security personnel take over the Games venues, they will completely sanitise and seal them after a detailed check.

“Delhi Police, the nodal agency for Games security, will conduct various drills, including anti-sabotage checks, once they take over possession of the venues,” Sharma said.

Delhi Police spokesperson Rajan Bhagat said, “We have not decided a specific date when the Delhi Police will take up the Games venues, but we are planning to take the security measures shortly.” The Commonwealth Games are slated for Oct 3-14.

Indian toilet model to be used in Afghanistan

Low-cost lavatory technique, developed by an Indian NGO, will be adopted by the US Army to build public toilets in Afghanistan, a senior US military official has said.

The US troops will build at least 40 toilet complexes linked with biogas generation plants in Kandahar as a part of the reconstruction process in the country.

The technical know-how of the model designed by Sulabh International would also be shared with the Afghan government so that it can be used in other parts of the country, said Maj. Edward T. Mears at the engineering wing of the US Army in Afghanistan.

“I would like to share these designs with the Kabul ministry and Afghanistan Ministry of Energy and Water. I would like to know specifically about volume of the digesters and factors for expected biogas generation,” the official wrote in a letter to Sulabh.

Sulabh has already built five community toilets in Kabul as a part of reconstruction projects funded by India.

Bindeshwar Pathak, founder of the Sulabh, has vowed to provide all assistance required to build more such toilets that are “economically sustainable as they are based on pay-and-use system”.

“The system is not only useful for sanitation but also generate bio-fuel which is considered one of the vital non-conventional energy sources,” Pathak said.

Quota for poor kids in private schools mandatory: Sibal Reserving 25 percent of seats for children of poor families in private schools would be mandatory and its violation would be punishable, Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal has said.

“We will not budge an inch from this mandatory provision in the Right to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act 2009, as we want to give opportunity to all poor children to study in private schools,” Sibal said.

The government enforced the RTE Act April 1, 2010 to ensure free and compulsory education to all children between six and 14 years, including those below poverty line.

Though several private schools expressed concerns over the quota, failure to implement the provision in the next three years will be punishable once the amendment bill to the Act is passed by lawmakers in Parliament.

“If private schools do not comply with the provision, they will not be allowed to function, as it will be difficult to achieve the goal of inclusive education otherwise,” Sibal said on the margins of a function in Bangalore.

The national commission for protection of child rights has been mandated to monitor the implementation of the act, while a special division will undertake the task.

“All private schools will have to apply for recognition, failing which they will be penalised up to Rs.100,000. If they still continue to function without paying penalty, they will be liable to pay Rs.10,000 per day as fine,” Sibal said.

The commission will also set up a toll free

helpline to register complaints against schools violating the provisions of the RTE Act.

To push elementary education to higher standards, Sibal said his ministry laid out plans to create “neighbourhood schools” where the school will mostly be managed by the residents (75 percent of the managing committee) of which 50 percent will be the mothers of the children.

“This way, we can reach out to children from lower economic status, minority groups, migrating and streets and bring them to schools thus fulfilling our goal of ensuring education to all,” Sibal added.

Sibal was in this tech hub to deliver the Vithal Chandavarkar memorial lecture at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc).

Chandavarkar was an industrialist, who served as Mayor of Bombay (now Mumbai) and also vice-chancellor of the University of Mumbai.

India needs adequate precautions for China: PM

Amid discordant notes in India’s ties with China, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has said that India has to take “adequate precautions” but can’t give up on peaceful resolution of issues with China.

Relations between the two Asian powers, the prime minister stressed, continued to be a mix of competition and cooperation.

The effort should be to create a milieu in which there can be peaceful competition, he said during an interaction with senior journalists in New Delhi.

Manmohan Singh was responding to queries on the state of India-China relations after Beijing denied visa to a senior Indian

Army general on grounds that his command included Jammu and Kashmir.

Manmohan Singh, on his part, pointed out that he had worked with Chinese President Hu Jintao and Prime Minister Wen Jiabao closely.

The prime minister, whose first year in office saw the finalization of guiding principles and political parameters to resolve the boundary question, has always advocated that there was enough room for a rising India and a rising China in the Asian hemisphere.

Manmohan Singh’s comments came amid a difficult phase in India-China relations marred by sharp differences over a host of issues, including Beijing’s practice of issuing stapled visas to residents of Jammu and Kashmir.

The prime minister also made a strong pitch for the need to continue efforts to improve relations with Pakistan despite the July 15 foreign minister-level talks that ended in vitiating the atmosphere further.

“There are always mishaps,” in IndiaPakistan ties, the prime minister said while stressing that it was his sincere belief that India had to engage Pakistan regardless of the complexity of the set up in that country. He, however, added that he was also sensitive to the Indian public opinion after the Mumbai terror carnage.

Engagement and dialogue were the only way forward in Indo-Pak ties, he said, adding he hoped that Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi would accept Indian External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna’s invitation to visit India.

REMEMBERING THE SAINT: A nun from the Missionaries of Charity walks carrying a photo of Mother Teresa during a tribute offering ceremony for Mother Teresa at St. Xavier’s College Auditorium in Ahmedabad on September 5, 2010, on Teresa’s death anniversary.

Photo: AP

Seniors enjoy I-Day celebrations

Indian Senior Citizens Association (ISCA) hosted a Multicultural Day at their usual meeting venue at Mt. Waverly. The initial, much-publicised performer of the event was Moti Sagar, an magician of humble appearance attired in shimmering black and assisted by his wife Neema, and an assistant. Moti Sagar’s much awaited arrival was deliberately delayed to increase the anticipation from the audience while Neema prepared for the show, until he finally arrived to resounding applause. His tricks were convincingly magical despite the recent betrayal of magicians’ tricks on TV. A random invitation to members to visibly cut a white rope against dark background yet the rope remaining whole, turning the magician’s wand into colourful kerchiefs, bursting a balloon to release a dove, joining and disjoining steel rings, etc., were mesmerising. His breaking of a wine glass using nothing physical but the power of the mind was truly original, although Neema could be observed remotely directing a magnet that made his kerchief rise, fall and deviate right or left obeying Moti’s finger directions. But the most convincing trick of all was when Moti wrote a figure inside tied slates from a distance. Minister Maxine Morand arrived late and Moti was obliged to repeat his tricks. None in the present company paid much attention to the entrees during his sterling performance. The gripping hour long performance resulted in genuine applause by 120 members and invited guests. A Chartered Accountant by profession, magic is Moti’s hobby and he may be contacted on 0411092061.

A Fan Dance came next with eight

traditionally dressed Chinese girls who, on prerecorded Cantonese music, charmed us with a well-coordinated “God and Saviour” dance. Chinese dances relate a definite story, just as Indian traditional dances do. Enchanting, multicultural!

Madhu Bhatia, the newly appointed Multicultural Commissioner was formally invited and introduced by President Phakey.

Gifted Sanjay Agarwal, member Shakuntala Agarwal’s son, entertained with Bollywood songs on taped music. Maxine Morand gave a brief speech and like the other performers, was presented a token gift of appreciation.

A sumptuous lunch followed, ending a tidy afternoon with no unnecessary items. ISCA next meets on September 11 for its AGM at Gaylord Restaurant in the City. Please contact President Dr. Prem Phakey on 9560 9607 for further information.

Northern Region Indian Seniors Association (NRISA) held a meeting at the Seniors Hall in Northcote. A salient feature noticeable immediately was that since its inception three years ago, NRISA has attracted an enviable number of ISCA seniors into its fold, one of the most pertinent and worthy being Parag Modi. Still in his thirties some fifteen years ago, Parag’s capacities were responsible for the inception of Indian Senior Citizens Association with the aim of keeping his aged parents Ushaben and Sushilbhai involved.

The meet of around eighty members was a relatively manageable affair. The most significant feature of the evening was, in keeping with NRISA’s cherished principle of

catering to the needs of “three generations” rather than restricting its efforts to seniors alone, there were many youngsters and children. The highlight of the evening occurred when MC Rashid Sultan stated that none of those present was truly “senior at heart”, while demanding that attending seniors raise their hands if they really felt like “seniors”. Needless to state, not one hand rose.

The programme began with the playing of drums by Anish Nagar. In appropriate Jazzy attire and cap worn back to front, Anish displayed his control over half a dozen musical accessories but the sweetest moments were when the sound percussion was soft, of distant drums. Agile Shikha performed a Bollywood dance beautifully. Then came Piya, Parag Modi’s daughter, and her cousin Helli, both eight, who presented a wellsynchronised dance.

Five year old and forever smiling Ashlesha Gaur, in lehnga and choli, danced well, a pretend microphone in her hand. Charming! Anandya Gaur, Ashlesha’s sister, created a riot of colour with her costume and superfast moves, as only a fifteen year old can. She was a pleasure to watch, performing to the tune of Nimboora’, with not a step out of the taal in the background. The Surprise Item was Krishna Arora who, you can bet, will be found at every India-associated gathering, even at her age. Much revered and habitually young, Mrs. Arora’s age-defying appearance, attitude and proclamations inspired us as she moved to her acclaimed dance, “Hip The Apple – Hip The Pear” with hips moving sensuously as only a senior of her pedigree would attempt. The applause for her performance seemed never-ending. Neelam Gupta’s ‘Modern Ramayan’ was innovative and brilliant, with Ram travelling through space to rescue Sita from a Martian.

President Dr. Santosh Kumar delivered the ‘good news’ that The Hon Martin Ferguson, Hon Robin Scott and Cr. Diana Asmar were not attending. The city of Darebin Mayor’s was represented by Cr. Tim Lawrence who spoke briefly to the audience. Vice Consul Rakesh Karwa stated that visas to India can now be obtained on weekends as well, and that the Consular office had moved from distant Coburg to the central location of 344 St. Kilda Road. FIAV President Vasan motivated members to visit their new office in Dandenong. Token shawls were presented to the speakers and Mrs. Arora and young Vinay Mahajan’s achievements were recognised with certificates. The last item was a combined effort by Sanjiv Nayak on the keyboard, Vinay on dholak, Baljeet Singh on tabla, and vocals by Vikas and Asha Chopra. Secretary Rajendra Chopra ended with a vote

of thanks.

For information about NRISA, please contact President Santosh Kumar on 0411 136 612.

Kingston Indian Senior Citizens Association (KISCA) began their meeting with wishes for a happy Independence Day. Barbara Nagaya sang patriotically, “Ay mere watan ke logo, zara aankh men bhar lo paani”, which brought tears to many eyes. President Mona Raju welcomed members and introduced a group of new KISCA members from India. Treasurer Vishnu Prasad displayed the annual finance report for members to view. In the Annual General Meet thereafter, members elected a new working committee. President Raju desired that members elect a new President as others must also be given a chance to prove themselves, yet she was unanimously reelected and thanked members for electing her again. She requested that members introduce more people to join as grants to KISCA were not quite enough for its survival. Mona also promised a bus trip north to warm Mildura or Great Ocean Road for a day picnic, when Melbourne’s erratic weather improves. For more information, please contact Mona Raju on 8787 5860.

Indian Seniors Citizens Forum (ISCF) met at the Sat Sai Baba Hall venue in Camberwell. After exchanging Independence Day greetings, the feature of the day was announced, that each member had to contribute something to the programme of the day. Some members danced, others sang bhajans and ghazals, read poetry, etc. Anand Shome presented some vegetarian jokes and Purushottam Rawal spoke about the presence of Indian culture in a Muslim democracy, Indonesia. Garuda, the Indonesian Airlines emblem created decades ago, is definitely an ancient Hindu mythological bird. Kanwal Bhagat, a visiting yoga expert from Sydney recommended the attributes of yoga and pledged that if members arrived one hour before the meeting, he would be pleased to guide them in its practice. The Forum is reviewing a hall or a house in centrally located Clayton where Bhagatji could guide the community. I was informed that Bhagatji’s parents were of the Hindu faith, but they took an oath of health and prosperity if they raised him as a Sikh. The oath was honoured and Bhagatji now observes the Sikh faith. As always, members contributed snacks for all to share. The Forum meets every fourth Saturday of the month. Contact Rakesh Auplish on 9543 6615 for further information.

George Thakur

He didn’t tell me how to live; he

Daddy Allsorts

My father my hero

It is admirable for a man to take his son fishing, but there is a special place in heaven for the father who takes his daughter shopping.

John Sinor

By the time a man realizes that maybe his father was right, he usually has a son who thinks he’s wrong.

Charles Wadworth

lived, and let me watch him do it.

Clarence Budington Kelland

Nobody ever asks a father how he manages to combine marriage and a career.

Sam Ewing

Aninda Banerji with sons Nikhil and Kiran Sandeep with daughter Ananya

Arvind Jabbal with Asha

Vikrant and Udit Thakur

When a father gives to his son, both laugh; when a son gives to his father, both cry.

Jewish Proverb

When I was a boy of fourteen, my father was so ignorant I could hardly stand to have the old man around. But when I got to be twenty-one, I was astonished at how much he had learned in seven years.

Mark Twain

Dads are stone skimmers, mud wallowers, water wallopers, ceiling swoopers, shoulder gallopers, upsy-downsy, overand-through, round-andabout whoosers. Dads are smugglers and secret sharers.

Helen Thomson

(Left) Joban with dad Amritraj and (right) Sabir with dad Jasraj

Pawan Luthra with Devna

Yuvika and Rehan with their dad Navin Gera

Ashish Sharma with newborn daughter Avani

Preeti Jabbal with Ranbir Singh

Nitin Verma and son Raghav

Starry Starry Night

Imagine being homeless, displaced and with nothing; no home, no food, no dignity, sleeping under the stars day in and day out, with no opportunities for the basic human rights and dignity as started under the United Nations Charter on Human Rights. The romance of sleeping under a moon lit starry night would soon wear off as the reality of the situation and desperation becomes real.

The objective of this fundraising charity is to provide food and shelter for he dispossessed people of Sri Lanka who, through civil war have lost everything. In particular the charity will focus on education the children who have lost any opportunities they would otherwise have had to an education.

WE are currently planning to build a bakehouse and common kitchen in affected areas.

WE can cure physical diseases with medicines but the only cure for loneliness, despair and hopelessness is love. There are many in the world who are dying for a piece of bread but there are many more dying for a little love.

Mother Teresa

l Certificate III in Disability (CHC30408)

l Certificate IV in Disability (CHC40308)

l Diploma of Disability (CHC50108)

l Certificate III in Aged Care (CHC30208)

TBM TRAINING

PTY LTD

We offer Flexible Learning Procedures

l Certificate in Home and Community Care (CHC30308)

l Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAA40104)

l Advanced Diploma of Children’s Services (CHC60208)

l Diploma of Children’s Services (Early childhood education and care) (CHC50908)

High Street,

TBM TRAINING PTY LTD

l Certificate III in Children’s Services (CHC30708)

Bringing India’s north-east into the mainstream

Indian writer Anjum Hasan, whose books are set in hilly Shillong, was a guest at this year’s Melbourne Writers’ Festival

BY CHITRA SUDARSHAN

Authors from the subcontinent are not always well represented at the Melbourne Writers’ Festival – so it was with the usual sense of resignation that I scoured the Writers’ list for some familiar names in the field of Indo-Anglia. Lo and behold – there were two writers from India: one an established literary essayist and novelist, Pankaj Mishra, and the other a less wellknown, but on the way to becoming a celebrated - poet, critic and writer in India and abroad, Anjum Hasan. The third name was that of a Sydney Professor of Neuropsychiatry, Perminder Sachdev who grew up in the foothills of the Himalayas and later studied in Delhi. We have reviewed Mishra’s books in this column a couple of times in the past, so our attention must turn to Anjum Hasan, who is on two panels at the MWF, and has published two novels, a book of verse and short stories. (Professor Sachdev, who was educated at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, has published many papers over the years, but his new book, The Yipping Tiger and Other Tales from the Psychiatric Clinic is his first foray into general

writing, and consists of experiences from his neuropsychiatric practice. He discussed – with other panel members at the festival–whether neuroscience negates the concept of free will. Yipping Tiger will certainly appeal to a niche readership.)

Back to Anjum Hasan. A few English language writers from India’s north-east such as Mitra Phuken, Temsula Ao (both of whose writings we have reviewed here before) and Siddharth Deb, have cut a swathe in the world of Indo Anglia. Hasan’s is a new voice that has joined this small but growing group. She was born in Shillong of parents who were academics from UP who settled down in Shillong in the early 1970s to pursue their careers. Hasan showed promise at a young age, winning the Outlook-Picador non-fiction contest and the Indian Review of Books award, followed by a book of verse published by the Sahitya Akademi in 2006. Her first novel Lunatic in My Head was brought out by Penguin India in 2007, and came to be shortlisted soon for the Crossword Book Award. Hasan has been living in Bangalore for the past several years, and she is the Books Editor for The Caravan

Hasan’s first novel Lunatic is located in Shillong, Hasan’s birthplace, and in it we feel the racial tensions running just below the surface and breaking out, not infrequently, into violence against the dhakar or ‘outsiders’– or ‘permanent guests’ of the majority Khasi hills-people who are the

‘insiders’ in the town. The effects of migration on a tightly knit society in India’s north-east is brought out, and what emerges are Hasan’s love for the place as well as a lingering desire to be ‘accepted’ by the locals. Hasan does it by telling the story of the interwoven lives of three protagonists who live in this town in the 1990s: Firdaus is the ‘outsider’ who teaches at the Loreto Convent and is four years into her PhD; Aman Moondy is a local who is preparing to take the IAS exams - again - although his first love is music and he is involved in a band whose members imagine themselves to be Pink Floyd; and Sophie Das is a child who is quite confused about her identity from the Ladybird books she reads!

Hasan’s second novel - a kind of sequel - Neti, Neti, came out in 2009 (Roli Books) and was long-listed for the Man Asian Literary Prize. This is the story of Sophie Das of the earlier novel, a girl who has grown up in small town Shillong, but now goes to work in an outsourcing industry in cosmopolitan Bangalore. It traces Sophie’s sense of disillusionment with life in the big city, and her attempts at navigating the maze

of city life. Hasan herself has been living in Bangalore for a few years, and she is able draw on her own knowledge of the city’s offices, pubs, call centres, night life and the noveau riche suburbs. A murder too close for comfort sends Sophie back to her parents and her hometown, but all is not well there with her father and her mother each chasing their separate dreams. She must pull herself from the brink and find a way to move forward.

Both Anjum Hasan’s novels are a kind of insight into the minds and the worlds of both the ‘insider’ and the ‘outsider’, of the soul wrenching effects of both the small town and the big city. That they are written in a style of quiet elegance simply adds to their attraction.

India captured in a billion shades

The Indian Consul General in Sydney Amit Dasgupta has done it again, second year in a row.

He has just released a new book, India for a Billion Reasons (Wisdom Tree). It is not however, a work of fiction like his previous releases In the Land of the Blue Jasmine (Star) and Indian By Choice (Wisdom Tree). You could call it a coffee table book - but with a difference - that captures the country in all its colourful glory, chronicling its culture, heritage, plurality, ethos and its multidimensional progress.

The book is a compilation of essays interspersed with lavish and evocative photographs contributed by writers like Atri Bhattacharya, Anita Ratnam, Anjum Katyal, Meenakshi Shedde, Harpal Singh Bedi, Rohan Mukherjee, Bibek Debroy, Tarun Basu, L.K. Sharma and several others on socio-cultural aspects of India. It provides a wonderful feel of the quintessential “Indian identity”, in terms of its qualities of hospitality, music, art, craft, cinema, dance, literature, food, sports, politics, economy, press, and the transition from tradition to modernity.

Coming at a time when there has been a dramatic surge of interest in India, …Billion Reasons is driven primarily by the prediction that by 2040 it would become the third largest economy after the US and China.

“While across the globe major economies struggled with low growth rates and continued predictions of sluggish economic performance, the Indian economy defied all expectations and consistently clocked eight percent growth with credible forecasts that a 10 percent growth rate was well within reach,” says Dasgupta.

“Indian companies moved on to make Western acquisition and bit by bit, the image of India underwent a positive change.”

He attributes the “newfound” interest in India “to Thomas Friedman’s bestselling book The World is Flat and his popular television series, To Catch a Predator A small section on opinion snippets by celebrities on “what India means to me” brings to the fore the spirit of proud nationalism that forms the moral mosaic of this culturally diverse land. For writer and socialite Shobhaa De, the author of Superstar India, “The idea of Indianness is strangely poignant... it conjures up feelings that are frequently contradictory. Most of us ‘feel’ Indian... even if our outward lives send another image”.

Author-commentator and MP Shashi Tharoor describes India as “colours of paradise”.

“When I think of India, I think of steaming breakfast idlis, pungent coconut chutneys, and lissom women in saris,” he says in the book.

Dasgupta’s first book Indian by Choice is a unique graphic novel about Mandeep - a young Indian born in the US who has a penchant for all things American, including baseball, hot-dogs and blondes. Mandy, as he would rather be called, reluctantly visits India to attend a family wedding despite being horrified at the prospect of spending a month in his native country. Worse, he is forced to delay his departure. And yet, by the end of his stay, he manages to find a connection - and a very uplifting one at that - with the land of his ancestors.

The Consul General of India (Sydney) Amit Dasgupta with a memento of his second book

Not a time for denial and self-denigration Population fears

are at play here.

BY NOEL G DE SOUZA

India’s Independence Day celebrations should be an occasion for celebrating the country’s achievements and not for lament and selfdenigration. Yet that is exactly the impression one gets from three special articles in the prestigious The Times of India. These articles create the impression that India has gone backwards since Independence.

That is not the message which the leaders of the USA, Britain, France and Portugal have conveyed in recent times. Their visits to India have included tributes about India’s progress. They have been promoting economic and scientific ties with India as it emerges as one of the world’s leading powers.

Do some Indians revel in self-denigration? That was justifiable at the time of India’s independence because India then had a lot of ground to make up to catch up with the developed world. The penchant for selfdenigration apparently still prevails.

One Times of India article by Amit Bhattacharya is entitled Food Fight: When will we get freedom from hunger? This well-meaning article intends to highlight the case for better food availability. The article, however, relies heavily on UN figures.

Stating that “numbers speak for themselves”, it quotes that 27% are undernourished, 43% underweight and that 70% under-5 children are anaemic. This unquestioning and uncritical quoting from foreign reports such as by the United Nations World Food Program is what Indians need to eschew. The article accepts the dubious ranking by the Global Hunger Index 2009 and the Millennium Development Goals (2010) which say that hunger has increased from 20% to 21% from the years 2000-2002 to 2005-2007.

It is one thing for UN agencies to survey health and nutrition in small North European countries with small homogeneous populations. It is entirely different to estimate health and nutrition in India with over a billion people and a high degree of diversity. The figures are at best guesstimates. Cannot Indian writers living in India see the situation for themselves and critically evaluate and question foreign reports?

Has it been considered that North European countries, unlike India, have ageing populations, small population growth, high-energy consumption and high carbon emissions? With regard to anaemia, has it been considered that thalassemia, an iron deficient genetic disease, is widespread in South Asia as it is in southern Europe (such as in Italy) and the Middle East? Genetic factors

Rather than lament, it would be more appropriate to consider the enormous progress that India has achieved with regard to food production since Independence despite its population tripling since then. Has India forgotten the extremely serious periods of food shortage that took place during the British Raj such as the infamous Bengal famine?

Rather, India’s food problems lie elsewhere.

As S. Viswanathan writes in The Hindu (Fighting Hunger: Role of Media and Judiciary), there is a clamour in India for adequate food storages and all public food distribution system. The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear a petition that large quantities of food are being wasted because of inadequate storage facilities.

Again, the article The Hollow Language Of Women’s Empowerment by Nandita Sengupta relies on quotes from academics which paint a sorry picture of Indian women. India, unlike several neighbouring countries, gives freedom of expression to its women and does not threaten its women writers. Indian women occupy high positions; universities have good female enrolment, and women freely act in movies. None of this appears in the article.

In another piece, A Million Mutinies Now, Subodh Varma laments separatist tendencies, the clamour for new states, caste politics and lack of freedom for young people to choose their marriage partners. That there are demands for smaller states is not per se unacceptable as smaller units are better governable. That India as one nation is accepted, for the most part, is to be applauded.

On the other hand, The Hindustan Times gives the opposite story providing hope and optimism. Acknowledging that social security programs initiated by the Indian government to eradicate poverty are often frustrated by corruption and mismanagement, it points out that reforms are afoot to use technology and talent on a scale never seen before anywhere in the world. The name of this project Imagining India comes from the title of the book by former Infosys CEO Nandan Nilekani.

In The Silent Glow of Innovation, Vivek Wadhwa points out that whilst in 2004, India produced 17,000 Masters and 900 PhDs in engineering, in 2007 India’s top five IT companies produced 120,000 engineers. President Obama repeatedly cautions Americans that India and China are forging ahead in producing scientists compared to the USA.

As Samar Halarnkar says in How We’re Creating The New, New India, “Despite the limitations imposed by the country’s weak infrastructure and antiquated education system, India has rapidly evolved into a global knowledge and innovation hub.”

This is not the time for self-denigration but rather for celebration.

BY TANVEER AHMED

My family has always voted Labor during Federal elections. It is not unlike supporting a football team, in that there is often little regard to actual performance or a scrutiny of the actual policies offered, but an emotional attachment and bond. This bond was cultivated from our act of migration in the 1980s, which was seen by them, just like many other immigrants, as a direct result of the policies implemented by the Hawke government. In their minds, Labor is the party for immigrants seeking to start a new life in Australia.

In contrast, the combination of the White Australia policy which was initially begun by the conservative Menzies government and the hardline asylum seeker policy implemented by the Howard government, has tainted the Liberals with a racist tinge. The infamous Howard line about asylum seekers, “We will decide who comes to this country and under what circumstances…” has tarnished Australia in the eyes of many, both locally and internationally.

But the reality is more complex.

The debate about what is being termed “sustainable population” became a major topic during the most recent Federal election. Both parties were competing over who would be seen as more hardline on blocking asylum seekers from entering Australia. When voters in key swing seats such as those in western Sydney were quizzed about what made them vote for the Coalition, many said they wanted an end to what they perceived as illegal immigration. The Coalition’s simplistic but effective war cry of “Stop the Debt. Stop the Boats” was clearly successful in delivering a hardline message.

labour market, as anyone who has visited a service station, a Coles or Woolworths or caught a taxi, would notice.

As a result, the ALP was essentially outflanked on immigration on the Right by the Coalition, and outflanked on the Left by the Greens on the environment. In attempting to maintain a centrist position, many voters deserted them.

The history of the ALP suggests it is not naturally the party of immigration. From the very first act of Federation, the unions conspired to exclude Asians of Chinese descent and Melanesian workers from competing with their members. Australia was founded on an act of racism. But then, as it is now, the discrimination was as much about economics as it was about race.

Now the ALP will find it difficult negotiating a growing “unholy alliance” between environmentalists on the Left who support a dwindling intake of migrants on the basis that the unique geography of Australia cannot support a population over 30 million people, as well as those on the Right who are reluctant on the basis of social cohesion and an excessive racial diversity that they see as too far detached from our Anglo-British roots.

Australia recorded the highest percentage increase in immigration numbers during the Howard years, particularly skilled migration and those on temporary working visas. This is particularly relevant to the South Asian community because a large number of IT workers have benefitted from this policy.

vote Labor (this election), opting instead for

Rudd essentially continued this trend and his pronouncement of wanting a “Big Australia” has been widely publicised. But the direction has abruptly turned with Gillard’s ascension and a number of insiders have suggested to me that the caretaker PM has little interest and familiarity with foreign policy matters.

This was also the election when many non-white immigrants, often for the very first time, didn’t vote Labor, opting instead for either the Greens or Independents. A number of acquaintances of mine from a South Asian background voted for the Coalition, citing their policies with regard to international students and visa requirements, a feature that the ALP is likely to restrict.

The segments within the Liberal Party that are most aligned towards business are also pro-immigration. They cite the need to help fill skill shortages and, although business leaders wouldn’t like to admit it, keep wages low in the lower end of the labour market. International students now fill large segments of the bottom end of the

The issue of asylum seekers is really a symbolic issue and doesn’t necessarily reflect the stance of the parties to the issue of immigration, more broadly. Television images of boats turning up on our shores resonate with some visceral fears of working class and rural Australians in particular. Many of them feel insecure by their suburbs being transformed in the past decade by growing numbers of non-white immigrants.

Australia is currently in the midst of a potentially transforming period in its stance on immigration, one driven primarily by emotional factors. It is one that may have damaging implications for the South Asian community.

Dr Tanveer Ahmed is a psychiatrist at Sydney’s Northside West Clinic. He is also an opinion columnist for The Sydney Morning Herald

Indian commentators must learn to critically evaluate, rather than accept Western analyses as the gospel truth

The recent Federal elections have opened a can of worms in relation to immigration issues, which can well impact resident migrants too

Rather than lament, it would be more appropriate to consider the enormous progress that India has achieved since Independence despite its population tripling since then

...many non-white immigrants, often for the very first time, didn’t

either the Greens or Independents

The City of Wonders

By SANDIP HOR

Simultaneously noble and squalid, the 300-year-old city of Kolkata, once called ‘Calcutta’, was built on the banks of the Hooghly. Now unhurriedly sloughing of its old skin under a Communist-led government, Kolkata has been awarded with many sobriquets, each portraying a distinct feature of its physical environment, lifestyle or ambience, all destined to create a unique appeal for visitors to experience.

City of Clubs

When English dwellers in Kolkata increased, it was inevitable that they would try and find a place of their own to play sport and socialise in the same way they would have done at home. That gave rise to the idea of clubs and the first to be established, not just within the city but in the entire subcontinent, was the Calcutta Cricket and Football Club, built in 1792. Next followed the Calcutta Racquet Club in 1793, the oldest squash club in the world that still exists at the same location where it opened its doors two centuries ago. The Bengal Club, which is compared to the esteemed Oriental Club in London, was the first social one to emerge on the scene in 1827. Many more followed – clubs for golf, tennis, swimming, rowing and the list went on with several local additions coming later. Thus was Kolkata dubbed the “City of Clubs”. Today these clubs are the playground for the elite, and their style, tradition and etiquette may not be found anywhere else in the world.

City of Art and Culture

The 19th century Bengali Renaissance movement introduced a great cultural awakening that has, over the years, made this city the cultural capital of India and since then, it is often referred as the “City of Art and Culture”. Hardly anyone can deny this; the city has bred Nobel Prize winning poet Rabindranath Tagore, spoken of Oscarwinning film director Satyajit Roy, hosted the nation’s largest book fair, and still sells countess copies of Vikram Seth, Amitav Ghosh, Rana Dasgupta and Jhumpa Lahiri, all of who have enduring links with Kolkata. It showcases dance, music, art exhibitions and theatres at various venues located in every nook and corner of the city on a daily basis.

City of the Raj

After being picked by Englishman Job Charnock in 1686, the British developed this obscure coastal settlement with such urban sophistication, it was almost like London with stately buildings, wide boulevards, gothic churches and formal gardens. It became the second city of Queen Victoria’s empire and remained the capital of British India till 1911, gaining repute as the “City of the Raj”. Eminent novelist Emily Eden fell so deeply in love with Calcutta during her stay in the 19th century, that she pronounced it as the finest place in the world and most generously bestowed her name to the city’s world-famous cricket ground, Eden Garden.

After six decades of independence, the legacy of the empire has faded, but the ensemble of quality colonial architecture and lifestyle still survives. Embellished with cricket, cocktails, curries and cakes, Kolkata is still identified as a place of near pilgrimage to admirers of the Raj who reminisce about the remnants of this imperial viceroyalty. They meander in the Esplanade, a bustling quarter surrounded by colonial architecture, stroll along the riverside Strand, glimpse British-made red edifices such as the expansive Writers’ Building - now the headquarters of the West Bengal government - and relish art and history inside the Victoria Memorial, a structure that looks like the Taj Mahal. They frequent one of several grand old gentlemen’s clubs for a gin and tonic, back horses at the race track or play a soothing round of Golf at the Royal Calcutta Golf Club, India’s equivalent of Scotland’s St Andrews.

City of Processions

Kolkata became the “City of Processions” in the 20th century during the Freedom Movement when thousands of men and women marched along its streets in defiance of British rule. The parade still continues after six decades of independence, but for different reasons which could be anything from protesting against a government decision, to celebrating India’s win in cricket against Australia, to immersing the Goddess Durga into the holy waters of the Hooghly after the four days of Durga Puja celebrations. It has become a part of Kolkata’s life, and you have to be unlucky if you do not encounter at least one procession during a visit to the city.

Kolkata has unique features that have earned it many distinct soubriquets

Majestic Victoria Memorial

An old British club

City of Palaces

During the British Raj, a number of impressive palaces graced the city as homes of viceroys, regal imperialists and Bengali Rajas and zamindars (landowners), earning Kolkata her title of “City of Palaces”. Many of them are now in decrepit conditions and are gradually making space for new generation dwellings, but a few still survive for visitors to glimpse and testify to their glory. Like the Raj Bhaban, current home of the State Governor which was built in 1803 on 27 acres of land on the lines of Kedleston Hall in Derbyshire, and which was the viceroy’s home. The National Library, an Italian Renaissance-styled grand edifice, was built in 1836 as the residence of the British Administrator. The Marble Palace built by Raja Rajendra Mullic around the same time as his family home is another notable structure.

City of Bazaars

Kolkata was founded as a trading place and required the establishment of several markets and bazaars to deal with a variety of merchandise. This led to its being christened as the “City of Bazaars”, with some early suburbs like Burrabaazar, Bowbaazar and Shyambaazar deriving their names from this notion. Today glittering shopping malls add their glamour; however it is those vibrant street bazaars that offer visitors a high-energy and buoyant experience for which Kolkata is famous. Some of the best examples can be found in the early morning flower auction market, located by the riverside just under the city’s landmark Howrah Bridge where the quantum of blossoms and zing of countless traders will prepare you for a truly effervescent day. There is the Dudh Mandi where daily auctioning of giga litres of milk still fascinate; the College Street second-hand book market said to be the world’s largest - where finding an out-of-print edition of a literary masterpiece can still overwhelm a collector, and the Raat Bazaar, a midnight-to-dawn street market selling second-hand clothing where the carnival-type atmosphere even in those hours can surprise and refresh. Last is the city’s favourite New Market, though built in 1865, where if you cannot find something, then it has yet to be created!

City of Dreadful Night

Not all the names given to Kolkata are flattering. Kipling called it the “City of Dreadful Night” and wrote of its unspeakable poverty when he visited during a dreadful famine that hit Bengal in the 1940s.

While poverty certainly remains in your face, the daily festival of human existence in this city of 15 million today is something that still captures visitors and makes them fall in love with Kolkata. Round the clock, something jaunty is being played on its buzzing streets, making one humanly feel that life is not dull, but full of excitement. It’s said you can touch life in Kolkata and perhaps that legend locked the English in the city for three centuries. Perhaps it inspired a Macedonian Catholic nun Agnes Gonxha Bojaxhiu to make Kolkata her home and become Mother Teresa. It has enticed literary intellectuals Allen Ginsberg and Gunter Grass to repeat visits, touched Steve Waugh to associate himself with Udayan, a home for the unfortunate, and enthused novelist Dominique Lapierre to name it “City of Joy”, the one sobriquet which all Kolkatans proudly hold close to their warm hearts.

Travel notebook

Kolkata

GETTING THERE

Fly Singapore Airlines (www.singaporeair.com) from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth to Kolkata via Singapore.

GETTING AROUND

No shortage of public transport, from yellow Ambassador taxis, buses, trams, three wheelers, hand-pulled rickshaws to an efficient underground train system

ACCOMMODATION

Located in the city’s greenest precinct within close proximity of key tourist attractions is the Taj Bengal Hotel (www.tajhotels.com). It is very reminiscent of the British Raj, epitomises a blend of legendary traditions and contemporary conveniences to make your Kolkata visit memorable. Don’t miss out dining at two of their top restaurants, Sonargaon for Indian cuisine and Chinoiserie for Chinese.

LOCAL SIGHTSEEING

Victoria Memorial, Zoological Garden, National Library, Indian Museum, Tagore’s Ancestral House at Jorasako, Marble Palace, Kali Temple, St Pauls Cathedral, Nakhoda Mosque and Mother Teresa Home

CURRENCY

Rupee is the local currency, with 1 AUD = Rs 40 Visa Australian Nationals require a visa to enter India

MORE INFORMATION

Check www.incredibleindia.org

It has become a part of Kolkata’s life, and you have to be unlucky if you do not encounter at least one procession during a visit to the city

Raj Bhavan Gate

Kitchen cosmetics

BY MINAL KHONA

In keeping with my new age beliefs of eco-friendly, chemical free options to everyday cosmetic needs, I have compiled a list of exfoliating scrubs and toners that can be made with everyday things found in your kitchen. Whenever you’re at home with time to spare, rustle up one of these scrubs to exfoliate your skin. Then use the toner to smoothen and soothe the skin after the exfoliation process.

The importance of exfoliation is that it takes off dead skin cells which lead to a clearer and cleaner skin while stimulating the blood vessels. Some people think exfoliating should be a daily exercise, I think once a week is enough. Just one thing to bear in mind is that since you are making this scrub at home in a not-so-sterile environment, always make just enough to use all at one go. If you have some left over, use it over the rest of your body, but do not refrigerate it or keep it aside for later.

Oatmeal

Take a quarter cup of oatmeal, add half a teaspoon of salt, one teaspoon honey and enough milk to make a thick paste. Apply it all over your face and neck and just as it begins to semi-dry, rub the applied mask in brisk, circular movements. You can also use porridge as a substitute if you don’t have oatmeal at home.

Chickpea flour

Otherwise known as besan, this common ingredient is found in all Indian kitchens. Take a tablespoon of generous pinch of turmeric which is an excellent antiseptic and antioxidant, and add a spoon of milk, fresh cream or olive oil (whichever is handy). Mix together to make a paste and use this to wash your face and neck as you would with any other scrub. You can even use this scrub for your whole body. Our grandmothers used this when we were kids and this simple treatment holds good even today.

Rice

Now which home doesn’t have this meal staple in its kitchen? Rice grains make an excellent exfoliant. Take half a cup of rice grains, grind them to a coarse paste, add a spoon of honey and two spoons of yoghurt. Blend into a paste and apply all over your face and neck. Rub in the scrub with firm and circular movements before it starts to dry. Then wash off with water.

Dal

Again, found in every home, you can make this scrub with any dal. Take half a cup of dal or lentils and soak it in a little water for half an hour. Then drain the water, grind it to a coarse paste, add milk and a little chickpea flour or besan and apply. Like the rice scrub, begin exfoliating immediately after applying and then wash off. This scrub works well for tender skins too.

Ice cubes

The simplest and most efficient toner which is used even in beauty salons is the ubiquitious ice cube. Take a couple of ice cubes and rub them all over the face after you finish exfoliating. By doing this, you tighten the pores on your skin and increase blood flow to the face. This is the most inexpensive and instant toner that you can use – at any time.

Cucumber and rose water

Take a cucumber, peel and grate it. Add 3 tablespoons of

rose water to the grated cucumber and blend in a blender to make a smooth paste. Refrigerate and use on dry skin or as an after-sun treatment if you’ve been to the beach. Leave on for 20 minutes and wash off.

Lemon tree flowers

If you are one of those lucky ones who has a lemon tree growing in the backyard, this excellent toner is for you. Take a handful of lemon flowers and infuse them in a cup of boiling water. Allow it to cool and then mash the flowers and strain the liquid. If you are left with half a cup of this lotion, add half a cup of rose water and pour in a bottle and refrigerate. You can use after a bath or after you have used a scrub. This toner can be applied and left on overnight.

Orange and lemon peels

You can recycle the peels of oranges and lemons after using

them. Sun dry the peels until dry and brittle, then crush them and store in a jar. You can use this powder in a scrub, toner or a moisturizing pack.

To make a toner, take two tablespoons of this powder and add two tablespoons of water and three tablespoons of rose water. Mix well and apply all over the face and neck. This lotion works well to close open pores and reduces blemishes.

There are several such options that you can use – an overripe banana that no one will eat is an excellent face mask; papaya can also be used for the same purpose and if you have no time for any of these, just plain milk applied to the face can also work to soothe the skin as an after-sun treatment.

The purpose is to use eco-friendly ingredients and minimize the use of chemical laced products to do your bit for the environment.

The most enviro-friendly and cost effective remedies for skincare can be found in your own kitchen

Finding Fundays

Long ago, there used to be a day in the week when life seemed lazy, uncomplicated and rejuvenating

best. Or worst!

BY MADHUCHANDA DAS

Can you remember, from many manic summers ago perhaps, waking up to a day of the week when the clock simply stopped and time stood frozen? Well, I certainly do! I wasn’t dragged out of bed by the horror of a shrill alarm clock, but rubbed my eyes gleefully open when Baba drew the blinds to invite the golden sun into my room. A clear sky promised a day of undiluted fun and endless possibilities, as the divine fragrance of Ma’s lit incense sticks extended a pious significance to that ambience. On that one day of the week, Ma’s frantic morning anthem of “Get up, get going!” was replaced by Anup Jalota’s bhajans calling the shots. I was deluged by the fragrant aroma of luchis (Bengali for puris) simmering lightly in a sea of warm oil, dying to be pricked open and devoured with succulent aloo dum

I would be at my creative best, etching intricate toothpaste designs on the bathroom mirror while wondering why it had been invented for teeth. That was the only day when the newspaper had a coloured edition, and its eye-catching spread would blow my senses away. Baba would goad me to read the serious stuff - the editorials and blah blah to buttress my language skills, but my heart lay in the tinsel town gossip, horoscopes, cricket and crosswords. And Ma would nag at the bright yellow designs in aloo dum oil etched across the glossy paper. Poor soul, she could manage to lay her hands on it only in the late afternoon, after it had been caressed by every hand in the family, all of whom had contributed to its crumpled

The lilting strains of Doordarshan’s signature tune wafting across from the neighbours’ home would make me dash towards our idiot box, which then ruled the roost. And there I remained fixated till eternity, oblivious of the world around me. This magic box faithfully delivered one fantasy after another, from Rangoli to Ramayan to regional cinema.

Intermittently, I was shaken out of my spellbinding stupor by Ma’s nimble fingers working their oily magic on my scalp or her fuming over getting the house tidy to welcome Baba’s first cousin’s second daughter’s husband’s friend who was invited for lunch.

Then there was Baba who demanded if he had any proprietary rights whatsoever over the goggle box (aka the TV- there was no Google in those days, you see!) to watch some sane news from around the country and the world. I only grudgingly consented after making a deal – to be allowed for a play with the building kids. Baba, the world’s simplest, most straight-forward soul, gladly gave in, but as I rushed down to freedom I could faintly hear Ma’s furious outburst on my grand escape.

Whether it was lagori, cricket, kho kho or badminton, or endless walks around the buildings, that was paradise and life was a dream.

Glorious food ruled the roost on that day. Baba’s impeccable eye for picking the choicest fare in the subzi mandi and Masterchef Ma’s culinary deftness made a magical jugalbandi which never failed to rise to the occasion. Their efforts triumphantly culminated into a lip-smacking feast that the day signified. My tongue and tummy tickled and teemed with myriad onslaughts of sweet, sour, tangy and peppery and there was a delectable gastronomic pleasure in licking my fingers after digging them deep into that elaborate spread.

I tossed and turned through the mandatory afternoon siesta which was Ma’s command, and as the house was engulfed by a hovering quietness, my

hands itched to try the card trick that Guest Uncle had demonstrated post-lunch.

Evening snacks tasted even scrunchier with friends over to watch the Hindi film on telly. Well, you see, not everybody owned the grand EC TV that proudly ruled our lounge room. All rested and replenished, the week ahead seemed beckoning as I dexterously organised my school satchel.

It’s strange, but at the core of it all, there was a pronounced profundity to the seeming shallowness of plain, absolute chilling out. No secret formulas and no sacrosanct commandments were needed to add magic to life. No talents to hone, no competitions to flaunt, no parties to throw or seminars to attend, no malls to visit, no supermarkets to rush into and no virtual gizmos to dabble with. Just simple, out and out reflection, rejuvenation, rapport and reciprocity in the habitual humdrum of ordinary middle class living.

Now, there are talents to hone, competitions to flaunt, parties to throw, seminars to attend, malls to visit, supermarkets to rush into and virtual gizmos to dabble with

And now, as I die to steal a glance at Indian Link - my favourite magazine - on that very day of the week many summers later, the numerous chores to conduct and the countless errands to run continue to tick surreptitiously in some dreary corner of the mind, waiting to manifest into a whizzing torpedo of itineraries and agendas, of promises to keep and words to honour, of quality time to chalk out and quantifiable love to shower. Sadly, I remain incapable of affording the luxury called time to stand and stare, with the extraordinary demands of an extracting era looming large upon me. I just hope and pray that one of these days I’m able to reserve a teeny weeny bit of it to relive those unmatched, unique and unparallel good old days when something called Sundays existed.

Taking time to smell the flowers

Rice is nice

A staple in most global cuisines, this nourishing grain lends itself to a variety of exciting recipes

BY CANDICE H

Prawn Pulao

350 gms fresh prawns

1 ½ cup washed basmati rice

1 large onion, finely chopped

1 large tomato, finely chopped

2 green chillies, chopped fine

1 pod garlic, chopped

1 tbsp grated ginger

½ cup fish/veg stock

½ tsp turmeric powder

½ tsp chilli powder (optional, for more spice)

4 cardamom pods

6-8 cloves

6-8 peppercorns

1-2 medium sticks cinnamon

1-2 medium size bay leaves

2 tbsp cooking oil

Wash, shell and de-vein prawns; coat lightly with turmeric powder and keep aside. Add oil to a deep-bottomed saucepan on medium heat. Add the cardamom pods, cloves, peppercorns, bay leaves, cinnamon sticks and fly until peppercorns pop. Next add the onion, chillies, garlic and ginger, and fry for about two minutes. Add tomato and fry on low flame for five minutes until the tomato is soft. Add prawns and fry for a minute. Add rice and fry for two minutes, until rice is completely coated with the mix. Next, add fish/veg stock and stir well. Finally, add enough water to cover the rice by about half an inch. Stir well once, then close the saucepan and cook on a low flame till the rice is done. Serve hot, garnished with chopped coriander.

Green Vegetable Rice

2 cups basmati rice, soak for ½ hr

1 bunch of coriander leaves

1 tsp cumin seeds

¼ tsp turmeric

1-inch piece ginger

3 pods of garlic

2 green chillies

3 cardamom

1-inch piece cinnamon

3 cloves

1 onion, finely cut

2 carrots cut into thick strips

15-20 green beans, cut into large pieces

8 medium sized cauliflower florets

¼ cabbage cut into thick cubes

½ cup green peas

4 cups water

2 tbsp oil

Salt to taste

Grind together the coriander, cumin, ginger, garlic and chillies, until they form a fine paste. Keep aside.

Heat oil in a pan, add cinnamon and cloves. Next add onions and fry till soft. Add the ground masala paste and fry well. Add the veggies and stir fry for two minutes. Finally, add the rice and water and bring to a boil. Lower the flame to simmer and cook covered until the rice is done. Serve hot with a tomato raita

Oven cooked lamb pulao

800 gm lamb (mutton or chicken can also be used)

2 cups basmati rice

2 large onions, finely sliced

300 gm peeled and chopped tomatoes

100 gm sultanas

1 tbsp ginger/garlic paste

2 cups water

2 tbsp ghee

Grind to a powder:

3 cardamom pods

1 tsp black peppercorns

1 bay leave

1 medium stick cinnamon

Sea salt

Pinch of mace

Pinch of nutmeg

2 tbsp whole coriander seeds

2 tbsp whole cumin seeds

Singapore Fried Rice

200 gms cooked rice

25 gms carrots cubed

25 gms cabbage cubed

1 tsp turmeric powder

3-4 spring onion greens finely chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

3 tbsp oil

1 tbsp chilly sauce

1 tbsp soy sauce

Heat the oil in a wok till hot. Add carrots, cabbage and cook for two minutes. Next, add salt, pepper, chilli sauce, soy sauce and turmeric and mix well, until the vegetables are fully coated with the sauces. Add the boiled rice and mix thoroughly, finally adding the spring onion greens. Stir for another

1 tbsp turmeric

5 cloves

2-4 dried red chillies

Wash the rice thoroughly and soak in water for about 2 hours. The rice must be soaked or it will not cook properly. Grind the peppercorns, whole coriander and cumin, cardamom, cloves, bay leaves, red chillies, sea salt, nutmeg and cinnamon together, to form a fragrant powder. Cut the meat into roughly even cubes, coating with salt and pepper. Keep aside. In a heavy bottomed saucepan with no plastic parts, heat the ghee and add onions and ginger/garlic paste and fry for about 5-7 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant. Add the ground

minute, then take off the fire and serve hot.

Khara Pongal

1 cup moong dal

1 cup rice

3 to 3 ½ cups water

10-12 cashew nuts

1 tsp each cumin seeds and pepper powder

½ tsp turmeric powder

2 tbsp dessicated coconut

½ tbsp mustard seeds

2 green chopped chillies

5 curry leaves

2 tbsp oil

1 tbsp ghee

Wash the moong dal and rice, and roast in the pressure cooker with the ghee for

spice mix and cook for 2 minutes. Next, add the lamb and cook until the meat is well coated, stirring at frequent intervals. Add the tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes. Next, add the water and cook on high flame until the mixture is boiling. Drain the soaked rice and add to the mixture. Stir well. Heat oven to 180 degrees. Take the mixture off the stove, cover the top with double aluminium foil and cover with lid to seal as tightly as possible. Cook in the oven for about 40 minutes. (Can be cooked on very low heat on your gas stove too). When done, mix gently and serve hot, garnished with chopped mint and/or pan-fried almond slivers. Cucumber raita can accompany this dish.

about a minute. Add water, turmeric and salt, close the pressure cooker and cook on medium flame until three whistles. After the rice is done, heat the oil in a separate pan and fry the cashew nuts until golden brown. Keep aside. Next, add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. When the mustard seeds start to crackle, add green chillies and curry leaves and fry for a few seconds. Next, add the dry coconut and pepper powder. Open the pressure cooker and add the rice and dal mixture to the pan. Stir thoroughly until the rice is fully mixed with the oil and spices. Lastly, add the cashew nuts and mix well. Serve hot, with a sprinkling of farsan or sev. (Note: this dish must be prepared and served immediately, before the mixture solidifies.)

Matrimonials

SEEKING BRIDES

Gursikh male 25 years Physiotherapist, Australian citizen of Sydney, 6 feet, slim, healthy, happy life style of Khatri background but with an open mind seeks 20-24 years, good natured, healthy, honest match. Truthful replies only to greenkochia@gmail.com

Match for Punjabi Sarswat Brahmin male, March 1978 born, 5’6”, fair, handsome, fit build, Indian born, Australian educated, well settled here for 14 years. Blend of Indian and Western culture, working in reputed global company, good position . Family well settled in Chandigarh/ Canada, own properties. Prefer girl already in Australia, professionally qualified, caste no bar. ausmatrimony2010@hotmail.com

Australian citizen, Gujarati/Patel boy, age 29 years, divorced within 3 months of marriage, IT professional with permanent job, seeks Indian girl. Student/ work visa holder welcome. Call Kesh/Sarla Patel (parents) on 02 9896-2248 / 0401 548 194 or e-mail patelkes@gmail.com

Australian citizen Aggarwal/ Punjabi Hindu boy, 5’8” tall 39 years old (looks 30), divorced, very good looking, pleasant personality, generous, eggetarian, very good in reputed job. Seeks good looking, caring, sincere and family oriented girl with GSOH and DTE. Issueless divorcee or widow also accepted. Contact with full bio-data and photo to : yankee1_2009@hotmail.com

Seeking a suitable bride for Australian citizen (South-Indian vegetarian with clean habits) working in IT industry in Sydney, mid-40s, caring, loving in nature. Looking for bride with similar qualities and habits. Contact for further discussion indoaussie@hotmail.co.uk, ksg667@yahoo. com

Seeking a bride for a divorced Iyer boy (no issues), Srivatsa Gothram, Revathy Nakshatram, aged 29. Boy is an Australian citizen and currently working as an executive for an Australian company in Manila. Parents are doctors and settled in Chennai. Sister is married and settled in Sydney. Please contact Jayasree on 0433 032 146 or email jgopal77@yahoo.com for any further details or enquiries.

Match for 30-year-old, 6’ Hindu boy, 23 years in Australia, IT professional, family oriented, friendly, caring and sincere personality. Contact with biodata and recent photograph to matrim_2010@yahoo.com. au

Australian citizen, university educated, government profession, mid 40s,

seeking honest Indian / Fiji Indian lady for marriage. Reply Tamavu@hotmail.com or call mobile 0404 263 400.

Seeking a good looking, caring, sincere and family oriented, responsible girl for Melbourne resident Arora boy. Permanent Resident, October 1971, 5’7”, handsome, fair colour, spiritual/open minded. Caste no bar. Please respond with photo, education and professional details to email: sndpsachdeva@yahoo.com, M: 04 3224 9651

Seeking alliance for 40-year-old handsome guy, RC, N/S, N/D, DTE, 5’10”, divorced, marriage annulled, no kids. Girl should be family-oriented, good looking, with good family values. Caste no bar. Kindly email with photo to: cheerfulguy14@yahoo.com.au

Seeking a Gujarati girl with good family values, for my son, 35, divorced since 3 years, no children, tax consultant, fair, 5’8”, non-smoker, light drinks, eggetarian, living in Sydney since 18 years. Contact 0402 416 353 or hp11869@hotmail.com.

SEEKING GROOMS

North Indian Punjabi family seeking professional, well settled match for 29/152 cm very fair, charming daughter working in IT, innocent divorcee. Family well settled in Australia. Please respond with details and photo to Sydney81@live.com.au 34 years, 5’7”

Post Graduate diploma in Advertising holding PR visa. Looking for welleducated boy of well settled and educated family with liberal and supportive values. She is sensitive and considerate to elders, warm and nurturing to all. She loves to socialize, going out for movies. Has a drive and wishes to be working professionally with healthy balance between family and work. Two elder sisters married and well settled - one in Sydney and one in London. Father is currently working, as General Manager in a leading Consulting Engineering Co in Saudi Arabia. Please email profile and photo to smk3005@ hotmail.com

Seeking match for Sikh, 24 year old, 5’6”, very beautiful girl, born and raised in Sydney with Indian values. She has done Bachelors and Masters in Commerce from UNSW - and successfully working now in a top prestigious firm. Please send photo and details to matrimony6789@gmail.com

Seeking match for Punjabi Ramgarhia, beautiful, slim, young looking, 32-yearold girl, with Permanent Residency of Australia. The preference is for a teetotaller,

good natured (age 28-34) well settled, sikh boy. Email the biodata: parampreet_dp@ yahoo.com for further proceeding.

Professional match sought for South Indian brahmin girl, born and educated in Australia. 36 years, 5’4” B.E. Masters in Social Science, well employed, vegetarian, slim and fair. Family well settled in Australia. Please reply with details to Email: dashami2010@gmail.com

Seeking a suitable match for Hindu/ Punjabi girl, 28 years (Aust citizen), 5’8”, never married and working in Sydney. Seeking a simple, broadminded and family oriented person, preferably settled in Sydney, caste no bar. Send details and recent photo at madhumarch@hotmail.com; or mob 0421566715.

Alliance invited for a highly educated Jat Sikh girl, Australian citizen, Sydney based, permanent job in accounting, reputed family 28 years. Fair, slim with traditional values. Looking for an Australian citizen or PR, clean shaven, well educated and well settled boy from a decent Jat Sikh family. Please contact with bio data and photo via email address provided below. replyus2010@gmail.com.

Alliance invited from professionals for Kannada Brahmin girl, 43 years, 5 ’4” B.E., MBA (Melbourne Uni), vegetarian, slim and fair. Married briefly and divorced with no children. Well employed and settled in Australia. Please reply with details to Email: raosn@bigpond.com

Seeking match for Hindu Khatri fair and slim girl, 24, 5’0”, currently in Canberra on visit. Well qualified, well mannered with modren outlook and traditional values. Brother well settled in Australia. Please respond with your biodata to email sanjog456@gmail.com

Wanted well-qualified, handsome, fair Punjabi Hindu boy, wellsettled in Sydney, PR holder/Australian citizen for a Punjabi Hindu girl, extremely beautiful, slim, very fair, 32 years, 5-3”, MBA (Australia), Australian citizen and a professional belonging to a high status, very well qualified business class family. The girl is an innocent divorcee following a brief marriage. She is very loving, homely, caring, intelligent and bubbly with a perfect blend of traditional and modern values. She is born and brought up in India. We are a God fearing, very well respected, down to earth and sober family with a positive outlook towards life. Similar profiles preferred. Please send full profile with latest photos to email id: to.sweet@hotmail.com or contact on 0451 589 389

Family seeking suitable match for an attractive, 23 year old, 5’ 2’’ tall, slim built, North Indian girl with strong values. She is highly intelligent and is a tax consultant at a high profile firm in Sydney. The preference is for a suitably employed, well settled boy (age: 2527), brought up in Australia, USA or England. Please send biodata and a recent photograph to OZ7654@gmail.com.

Seeking a suitable match for goldsmith girl, 32, (applied regional residency), 5’2”,working full time in community welfare. Seeking match with broadminded personality, preferably in Australia. Caste no bar. Contact kaur_m13@yahoo.com 0011-91-99887-49191, 0011-91-85250-1746

Seeking professionally qualified/wellsettled match for 39/165, never married, fair, slim, beautiful Punjabi girl, family oriented and responsible. Engineer working in Sydney, Australian citizen. Early marriage. Can relocate. Parents well-settled in India. Caste no bar. Email with photo: sydgirl09@ gmail.com

Seeking match for 28/158cm, fair, beautiful, intelligent, Australian citizen girl, from a respectable Hindu family with good professional job. Boy must be 29-32, professionally qualified, well settled, openminded, non-smoker with strong family values. Please email profile and photo to sydney_girl2010@hotmail.com

Punjabi Arora parents invite never married well-settled/professional match for fair, slim, attractive, 37/165, IT professional with strong family values. Never married. Settled in Sydney. Australian citizen. Status family. Caste no bar. Early marriage. Email with photo: ausgirl101@ gmail.com

Match for Punjabi Saraswat Brahmin Vishisht Gotra, Manglik girl, MA B.Ed, DOB 29-3-1977, 5-20 pm, Deolali (Maharashatra). Applied residency in Australia, 5’-2”, prefer Australian boy. Call +91 9888 970 986 or email nsharma0786@ yahoo.com.

Parents of Sikh Khatri girl invite alliance for their beautiful, slim daughter, 30 /5’-1”, Australian citizen, never married. Currently working in Sydney as Analyst with one of the large banks. Family settled in Sydney. Seeking professional, well-educated match with good family background. Caste no bar. Contact: 02 8807 4258 or email:schadha06@yahoo.com

Iron deficiency anemia

BY GEETA KHURANA

Iron-deficiency anemia is the most common type of anemia. The term “anemia” usually refers to a condition in which your blood has a lower than normal number of red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen and remove carbon dioxide (a waste product) from your body. Anemia can also occur if your red blood cells don’t contain enough hemoglobin.

Hemoglobin is an iron-rich protein that helps carry oxygen to your body. Iron-deficiency anemia usually develops over time if your body doesn’t have enough iron to build healthy red blood cells. Without enough iron, your body starts using the iron it has stored. Soon, the stored iron gets used up. After the stored iron is gone, your body makes fewer red blood cells. The red blood cells it does make will have less hemoglobin than normal.

Causes

Iron deficiency could be because of many non nutritional reasons such as genetic disorders, bleeding ulcers or hemorrhoids, gastrointestinal bleeding caused by aspirin or related drugs, frequent blood donations, colon cancer etc, but it can also be caused by lack of dietary iron especially in vegetarians. Women are especially prone to iron deficiency because of repeated blood loss during menstruation. Pregnancy also places extra iron demands on women since iron is needed to support the added blood volume, the growth of the fetus and blood loss during childbirth.

Symptoms

Fatigue, lethargy, weakness, poor concentration, and impaired immune function. Another peculiar symptom of anemia called pica is the desire to eat unusual things such as ice, clay, cardboard, paint or starch. Advanced anemia may also result in lightheadedness, headaches, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), irritability, pale skin, unpleasant sensations in the legs with an uncontrollable urge to move them (restless legs syndrome).

Sources of iron

Iron occurs in two forms in foods, heme and nonheme. Heme iron is found only in foods derived from the flesh of animals, such as meats, poultry and fish. Heme iron is so well absorbed that it contributes significant iron to the body. On average, heme iron is about 23% bioavailable.

“Bioavailable” in this situation means that the iron can successfully make its way from the food into our bloodstream. This 23% number for heme iron, however, is only an average. In practice, the amount of heme iron we absorb is highly variable. Food cooking methods and presence of calcium have a significant impact on bioavailability of heme iron.

Nonheme iron is found in both plant and animal foods. The rates of absorption of nonheme iron are lower than heme iron. Moreover, sources of nonheme iron often contain phytates, which bind to iron and carry it through the digestive tract unabsorbed.

* Liver extracts from beef (bovine) are a rich natural source of many vitamins and minerals, including iron. Liver extracts provide the most absorbable form of iron - heme iron - and other nutrients critical in building blood, including vitamin B12 and folic acid. Liver extracts can contain as much as 3 - 4 mg of heme iron per gram.

* Other red meats including beef, pork and lamb.

* Seafood such as oysters, clams, tuna, salmon, shell fish, sardines and shrimp, etc

* Chicken and turkey

* Egg yolk

* Green leafy vegetables such as spinach, mustard, mint, coriander, bok choy.

* Other vegetables such as including broccoli, Swiss chard, asparagus, parsley, watercress, Brussels sprouts.

* Whole wheat bread, wheat germ and oats.

* Some breakfast cereals, pastas, breads, and grains are enriched with iron. But you need to check the labels for these.

* Nuts and dried fruits are also considered to have good amounts of iron especially raisins, apricots, dates and prunes.

* Dried beans, molasses and tofu.

Iron absorption enhancers

* Acidic foods (such as tomato sauce) cooked in an iron pan can leech iron into the food and thus also be a source of dietary iron.

* Vitamin C increases the absorption of iron. Having a glass of orange juice with a vegetarian meal helps to enhance the absorption of iron.

* Vitamin C foods such as oranges, cantaloupe, strawberries, Kiwi fruit, red capsicum, grapefruit, etc.

* Tomatoes, tomato juice and peppers.

Meat, fish and poultry contain not only the highly bioavailable heme iron, but also a factor called MFP factor that promotes the absorption of nonheme iron from other foods eaten with them. Therefore, addition of meat in the diet along with vegetarian foods enhances the absorption of iron from vegetarian foods.

Iron absorption inhibitors

* Black tea contains tannins that strongly inhibit the absorption of non-heme iron. In fact, this iron-blocking effect is so effective that drinking black tea can help treat hemochromatosis, a disease of iron overload. Consequently, people who are iron deficient should avoid drinking black tea.

* Fibre is another dietary component that can reduce the absorption of iron from foods. Foods high in bran fibre can reduce the absorption of iron from foods consumed at the same meal by half. Therefore, it makes sense for people needing to take iron supplements to avoid doing so at mealtime if the meal contains significant amounts of fibre.

* Numerous kinds of phenolic compounds in beverages such as tea and coffee, herbal teas, cocoa and red wine form insoluble complexes with iron and may exist as an “iron-tannin” complex and thus inhibit iron absorption. Therefore, it is advisable to wait an hour after a meal to drink tea.

* Coffee interferes with the absorption of iron. However, moderate intake of coffee may not adversely affect risk of irondeficiency anemia when the diet contains adequate amounts of iron and vitamin C.

* Phosphates found in carbonated soft drinks can also decrease iron absorption.

* Soy is normally an important part of vegetarian meals as a high quality protein and is an excellent source of the healthpromoting phytochemical, genestein. However, most forms of soy (soy flour, soy protein isolate, and tofu processed with calcium sulfate) reduce the absorption of non-heme iron. The inhibitory effect can be largely eliminated by using fermented soy-based products such as soy sauce, (tempeh, natto, miso), iron fortified soy products.

* Oxalates, found in spinach and chocolate, may also decrease iron absorption by forming complexes with the mineral that cannot be absorbed through the digestive tract.

Eggs

The TRUTH about Humpty

Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall

Humpty Dumpty had a great fall

All the king’s horses and all the king’s men Couldn’t put Humpty together again!

Obviously Humpty was not really an egg. Well, what was he then? Apparently, Humpty might refer to King Richard III of England, the hunchbacked monarch, whose horse was named “Wall”. During the battle of Bosworth Field, he fell off of his steed and was said to have been “hacked into pieces”. But then again, Humpty Dumpty might have been a giant gun, a cannon, placed on a giant wall in the English city of Colchester. During the English Civil War (1642 - 1649), a shot was fired at the church that damaged the wall on which the cannon was positioned. The wall was damaged, causing the cannon to fall and break into pieces, which the King’s army could not reassemble, even though they tried.

Kids in the kitchen

Green eggs and ham

I would not eat them with a fox.

I would not eat them in a box. I would not eat them here or there.

I would not eat them anywhere.

I would not eat green eggs and ham.

I do not like them, Sam-I-am.

Dr Suess

How would you cook green eggs and ham, Cat-in-the Hat? Green food colouring, maybe?

Pearlofwisdom

Pearlofwisdom

beating them. Better still, use herbs to make your eggs green. Chop up your preferred herbs and blend them in the blender with your eggs, some salt and pepper and a little milk, and cook as usual –omelette or scrambled!

A true friend is someone who thi n ks that you are a good egg even though he knows that you are slightly cr a cked BernardMeltzer

The present is an egg laid by the p ast, that has the future inside its shell. Zo

Did you know...

EGGS-cyclopedia

A large egg has less than five grams of fat, and less than 2 grams of saturated fat. Eating 2 eggs per day will not increase bad cholesterol for people with a normal blood cholesterol level.

Eggs have 11 vitamins and minerals. One ostrich egg is about the same weight as twelve chicken eggs.

A fresh egg will sink in water, a stale one will float. The colour of the egg shell is not related to quality, nutrients or flavour. White shelled eggs are produced by hens with white feathers and white ear lobes. Brown

shelled eggs are produced by hens with red feathers and red ear lobes.

Yolk colour depends on the plant pigments in the hens’ feed. Natural yellow-orange substances, such as marigold petals, may be added to lightcoloured feed to enhance colour. Artificial colours are not permitted.

A hen takes 24-26 hours to produce an egg.

An egg shell has 7,00017,000 pores on its surface through which moisture and air go in and out. Store eggs in the fridge in their container, or else the fridge smells will get in to the egg. ML

Laugh out loud

Did you hear the one about the egg? It’s not all it’s “cracked” up to be!

What do you call an egg that goes on a safari? An eggs-plorer.

What do you call a city with 20 million eggs? New Yolk City.

Why is the chef so mean? She beats the eggs.

What does mummy hen call her baby? Eggs-tra special.

What do chickens call a school exam?

Answer: Eggs-amination! ML

Foto corner

ostrich egg

Do it for Dad!

It’s post-bath, pre-bedtime at home, and my sons and I are sitting together in their bedroom reading a book as we wind down for the night. Just a few more minutes for their prayers and story, I think, and I’ll be free to put my feet up after another rushed day….

A frisson of fear and delight runs through their little frames and they look at the door in thrilled anticipation. Instinctively they move together, crouching behind the bed and whispering to each other, “Quiet, quiet, don’t make a noise!” The knock sounds again, this time louder and more determined. They’re taut, poised and ready. The door opens and their dad bursts in. Their screams of delight momentarily deafen me, as they yell, “Kissing dinosaur’s here, kissing dinosaur’s here!” and in contradiction, fling themselves on him. Right, dad’s here, I say with a sigh, aware that my practical routine has fled out of the door as soon as it opened. The next fifteen minutes are a riotous exuberance of noise as they all scream, wrestle, roll on the floor, shout, jump and giggle through their greetings. The next twenty minutes are a medley of playing silly games, discussing school and pre-school activities and exchanging what seem to be important bits of information, like who got on the ‘sad face’ at school and why.

make sure they know exactly how special. From the little baby girl confidently swooping down the slide into the arms of her dad, to the embarrassed teenager accepting

I don’t find anything particularly funny in my son running around buck nude with his underwear on his head, but my husband finds it hilarious

with his underwear on his head, but my husband finds it hilarious. I’m not impressed by the sound and aroma of my little boys’ propensity to pass wind, but their dad looks amazed a second before he collapses with mirth. I’m concerned when one of my boys falls off his bike or is attacked by a persistent magpie, but my husband? Yes, he’s the guy who looks like he needs to go to the bathroom urgently, but really, it’s only his face contorting as he tries to figure out if the situation’s amusing or irritating.

Perhaps it’s our eccentric family, but most of the boys’ antics seem side-splittingly funny when their dad is around. Even I seem to relocate my sense of humour, and tend to see the funny side of splashes through mud, torn clothes, children stuck up trees, grazed knees and mispronounced words. And somehow, when their dad is around, the boys seem to be more independent and selfreliant than they ever are through the day with me.

“I’m so tired, please get me a glass of water,” is a command that I reluctantly obey, telling myself to empathise with my five-year-old’s stressful day at kindergarten. But his dad’s retort is, “Get it yourself!” and the little blighter will sigh dramatically and get off his butt to fetch the water himself.

I must admit to a dash of envy at this masterful attitude which absolutely doesn’t work when I try it. Threats, corruption and finally bribery are the things that work with me, and I wonder yet again at this masculine undercurrent of understanding that is way more effective than all my seemingly ridiculous attempts

at letting them know who’s boss.

The easiest thing, when dealing with the upheaval of our nightly routine, would be to cut out the exuberance with reminders of bedtime and school the next morning. However, the nature of my husband’s job demands that he work late hours and the boys are lucky if they see him before their bedtime even three days a week. And that’s why I keep reminding myself that the routine doesn’t really matter, as long as they’re spending time together and enjoying themselves. Working late isn’t uncommon in this day and age, when dads have to be much more than 9-to-5 family men; they have to carry around their dreaded Blackberrys and constantly keep in communicado with their workmates, clients, bosses…whoever! At least we’re fortunate, especially when I think of other dads who work shifts or away from home during the week, all the while missing their families and with just occasional weekends to share in all the little joys that only our children can give us.

For dads, a hectic and demanding work schedule during the week also means personal sacrifices which, while not as important as being with one’s children, are forsaken because they simply don’t have the time. For instance, they can’t fit in an exercise schedule into their busy lives, they don’t have the time to indulge in a hobby and probably the one thing that helps them relax is sitting in front of the TV with a drink, preferably alcoholic. But while this lifestyle seems to be an evil born out of necessity, as one gets older it takes its toll and eventually, it’s the family that is the main

victim. Some dads I know are content to watch their kids play sport from the sidelines, simply because they don’t have the energy to actively participate. Others find themselves increasingly short-tempered, irritable and critical, particularly at the antics of their teenage children. And this is despite their youthful lifestyle having been way more riotous than their kids could even ever imagine!

For dads, it’s a Catch-22 situation. Excelling at their jobs helps build a career, personal confidence and also helps provide material comforts for the family. But in the bargain, they lose out on spending consistent quality time with their kids. In today’s world it’s rare to find that perfect work-family balance, but there’s no doubt that they do try their best.

So pardon me for nagging, but slow down, dads, and take time out for yourselves and your kids. Keep in good health, eat well, imbibe alcohol in moderation and if you smoke, kick the habit – unless you’d like your kids to emulate you in this worthless and expensive activity! Kick around a ball with them, or simply challenge them to a game on the Wii. Join them when walking the dog. Call them for a chat, even if it’s to subtly probe about a new girlfriend or talk to your grandkids. As a dad, it’s your prerogative to be a part of their life and I firmly believe that these encounters will make lasting memories. There’s nothing quite as reassuring as those moments spent together as a family, and if your children can recount happy times with you to their kids, well, you can be sure they’ll make as great a parent as you.

Being a dad today is a demanding job, requiring one to maintain a fine balance between family and career, writes SHERYL DIXIT

We are committed to providing you with the most personalized & tax-effective strategies. Whether you are an individual or a business owner, we will help you with the best advice on tax minimization, GST compliance, accounting & business solutions.

Over the past several years, we have built an enviable reputation for professional and value-for-money services.

We promise:

• Value-added services with proactive solutions.

• A focused and customized service by taking the time to understand your needs.

• Accessibility and responsiveness throughout the year.

We guarantee that your returns are 100% compliant with the latest Australian Taxation Law which will ensure peace of mind and help you focus on wealth management.

Calculus Accounting and Taxation Services

Holiday Inn on Flinders

575 Flinders Lane (Corner Spencer St & Flinders lane/Opposite Southern Cross Station) Melbourne VIC 2000

03 - 9629 4111

Niranjan Kale: 0411 034 507

ARIES March 21–April 20

TAURUS April 21–May 21

‘n’ You Tarot ‘n’ You

Tarot predictions for February 2010 Tarot

‘n’ You Tarot ‘n’ You

Tarot predictions for September 2010

LIBRA September 23 – October 23

You seem to have been delaying a decision and now are likely to experience difficulties in a relationship due to interference and mental rifts. Tarot represents division, depression and separation. You are not passing through an easy time. You need to sort out your problems and not be let down by any delays. You should try to be strong and face life as it comes. Health and friendships might be affected.

Tarot indicates that your circumstances are likely to improve. Your work situation is going to be congenial, yet at the same time new projects may take time to materialise, so watch out against being over anxious. You are likely to face an important decision linked to finances. In a relationship reading, Tarot signifies a decision regarding a new stage in a relationship that may require spending of some money.

GEMINI May 22–June 23

Tarot says you will receive positive news that will cheer you up. It is time to start a new project or travel, which takes you in a new direction. There could also be assistance from a young person or a faithful friend during a difficult time. You may receive news from people you seldom see. You may also have flashes of inspiration and creativity, which could bring you success. The card for you represents faithfulness, a postman, a messenger, a lover and stability.

CANCER June 23–July 22

Tarot indicates the inevitability of change. Certain events in your life may be unexpected, but it’s important that you remain optimistic. The changes at home or in relationships are likely to be for the best. You need to leave behind old beliefs and values which no longer support you and adopt a newer approach n life, in order to progress ahead. You will benefit by accepting the fact that old forms collapse and give way to new forms, for the better.

LEO July 23–August 23

The card drawn for you indicates nostalgia as well as change. You may feel nostalgic about your childhood. There is also a focus on a new environment and the adaptability linked to it all. You are able to progress due to your endeavours. Yet you may find life filled with habits and patterns. Perhaps it is time to procure new employment. You are likely to find yourself in a caring vocation, such as those related to children - teaching, nursing or counseling.

VIRGO August 24–September 22

You will achieve clarity on what you really desire, and inner strength to achieve the same. Domestic changes are likely to take place. You may find yourself thinking about moving on in life towards a new setting. You desire to explore new opportunities for fulfilment. Perhaps it all refers to a search for a deeper commitment within your present relationship. It could also mean spending time in meditation or in some sort of study.

This month your focus is going to be on negotiations. You will be required to make a choice between two alternatives. It is important that you come to terms with any emotional issue before taking a decision. It will be beneficial for you to face facts, understand the depth of the situation and then decide on your future line of action. All rifts would be resolved with a proper focus, leading to earning love and respect.

SCORPIO October 24–November 22

The present time is likely to bring with it challenges of a financial nature. It is important for you to be careful of any opportunities that come your way, so as not to miss any options for advancement. You may find your work to be uninteresting. You may feel lonely and low at this point of time. Tarot indicates spiritual emptiness as a biproduct of not being flexible or adaptable towards change. The lesson for you is to be open to change from within.

SAGITTARIUS November 23–December 21

There is a focus on strength in opposition. Suspension of events is indicated. This period of delay should be used productively to reassess the line of action in the future. Tarot advises you to finish incomplete projects in your life. You have perhaps been hurt by your partner or are yet to come to terms with your past relationships, and in turn are not able to commit yourself fully to the present one. Over caution is likely to hamper the growth of your relationship.

CAPRICORN December 22–January 19

Your focus is likely to be on matters related to family and relationships. You will encounter a friendly and loving person who is not only popular in company, but also clever in business and works with drive and enthusiasm. This person is likely to bring you success in business. You are advised to adopt such qualities yourself. You are likely to achieve success through inner-strength. Tarot suggests a good business proposal. Anything to do with property or security is well favoured.

AQUARIUS January 20–February 18

Tarot foresees focus on relationships. On a personal level it is a good time for romance and compatibility. Tarot indicates harmony, romance, peace, concord and prosperity. Gatherings will be happy and congenial. Monetary success is suggested. Purchase of property can be contemplated. Tarot indicates a quiet time spent with friends and family in a favourite place. It is a time when you are successful in feeling at home in a relatively new situation.

PISCES February 19–March 20

The card for you indicates that it is imperative that you spend some time to ponder on what is important at this point of time in your life. Prioritise things and rather than trying to do everything by yourself, delegate a few responsibilities to others in order to achieve better results. On a brighter note, you are likely to be good in handling money. It may prove beneficial for you to use home as your base for work.

KNOW THYSELF AS SOUL

Sant Mat is a practical spiritual path based on meditation, ethical living, service to others & love for all creation. Its goal is to enable the soul to return & merge into its source; the purpose of human life described by mystics of all traditions. Discipline & dedication are essential, as is the help of a competent living master. Entry is via a preparation program. There is no charge at any stage.

BUZZThe

work in India: Anil Kapoor

For the first time, Indian television has been screening the popular American show 24. But it’s no surprise, given that apna Anil Kapoor has a major role in it this season!

And no one is more thrilled than Anil himself about it. He describes the action drama as “bigger than the biggest” he has done in India.

“For example, the scale of every episode was bigger than any of the films I’ve done in the past. The entire series is worth $125-150 million. I’ve never done such a big show in my career. It was totally very special,” added the 50-year-old.

Based in New York (shot in Los Angeles), the

Konkana–Ranvir take the plunge

Actress Konkona Sen Sharma has tied the knot with long-time boyfriend Ranvir Shorey. “Hey guys. Ranvir and I got married on the 3rd (September). Thanks for all the good wishes! Konkona, 30, posted on her microblogging page Twitter.

The couple, who got engaged in 2008, and have been living together since, reportedly exchanged wedding vows in an intimate ceremony at their Goregoan residence in Mumbai.

The wedding ceremony was an interesting blend of Bengali and Punjabi traditions. While Ranvir, 38, was dressed as a Punjabi groom, Konkona looked resplendent in her grandmother’s traditional Bengali jewellery, which surely would have made mama Aparna Sen proud. Ranvir tried to put up a tough match in his traditional shervani, decked in

around-$150 million 24 is an action-drama series starring Kiefer Sutherland in the lead as special agent Jack Bauer. The show is presented in the semblance of real time, with each 24-episode season covering 24 hours in the life of Bauer. This is the eighth and final season of the show.

Anil plays Omar Hassan, president of a fictional Islamic Republic of Kamistan (IRK), who visits the US on a peace mission to meet the US president.

“I was in LA for six months for the show, but kept travelling between India and the US. I was also shooting the Hindi film No Problem in India and South Africa. So in between I shot two schedules

flowers from head to toe. Apparently, Ranvir clearly stood out amongst all the baaraatis, looking smashing.

Meanwhile, the reticent Konkona remained indoors through most of the ceremony with very close family and friends, strictly avoiding the media glare. Strangely, few Bollywoodwaalahs were present, but for Koel Purie, Fardeen Khan and Shilpa Shetty. Fardeen and Shilpa were gracious enough to come out and pose for the Press, after completing the marriage rituals. But Konkona and Ranvir chose not to do so.

Konkona, daughter of Bengali filmmaker and actress Aparna Sen, is known for her roles in Mr & Mrs Iyer, Page 3, Life... In A Metro and Wake Up Sid while Ranvir made his mark with films like Honeymoon Travels Pvt Ltd, Khosla Ka Ghosla, Pyaar Ke Side Effects and Mixed Doubles

As soon as the National Award

of the film too,” he said.

So Bollywood hasn’t taken a back seat? “No. I can’t forget my roots. I am what I am because of that. I have moved on but I’ll keep on doing Hindi films,” he said.

Anil revealed he is currently in talks with for three other non-Indian productions (with Sophia Loren’s son, with Ben Stiller and with Fox Television).

Anil’s future projects in India include sequels to Race, No Entry, and Mr. India

For now though, he is waiting to learn the reaction of his Indian fans to his performance on 24.

winning actress confirmed her marriage, congratulatory messages started coming in on the microblogging site.

Genelia D’Souza wrote, “Congratulations Konkona, lots of love and happiness to a new life.”

Shabana Azmi said, “Congratulations both

of you - bahut saara pyar (lots of love).” Karan Johar chimed in with “...huge congratulations!!! The best years ahead!!” And the groom tweeted back, “The best wish/advice I’ve received on marriage so far:

‘Congratulations! Don’t do it again’”. Though the ceremonies happened indoors,

GUESS WHO

Identify these two golden oldies from the 1960s and ‘70s

?

Anil Kapoor in 24

some media reports learnt later that the couple was seen rushing off to an unknown destination for their reception. Konkona and Ranvir have always been very low profile people and they are not likely to ever change.

Actually, they might have had to change; at receptions, you’re expected to wear different clothes you see!

Preity Zinta: Busy little bird

She’s always been a chirpy personality. And even though this dimple-faced Simla beauty hasn’t done much work lately, she continues to tweet-tweet away like the typical busybody. Poor Preity Zinta. See, she doesn’t have much else to do, except twitter regularly. Here are some of her posts:

After a meeting with tennis ace

Serena Williams: “At Dinner with Serena Williams! She is absolutely wonderful and full of life. Love her style :-) Must confess, I am a huge fan! It takes a lot to be No.1”.

After the opening bell of NASDAQ in New York City: “At Nasdaq (I’m) trying to get myself listed :-)))) I hope the markets do well today! I cannot stop smiling :-)”

After meeting Trinidad & Tobago PM

Kamla Prasad Bessesar: “She’s a great orator and truly dynamic”.

There was also a tweet about her meeting with legendary singer Michael Jackson’s brother Jermaine and his wife Halima at New York during the India Day Parade at NY’s Times Square.

And of course, there were photos with each tweet, but the Serena Williams one was discreetly removed after fans wrote in to say she “looked like Dracula” thanks to a weird choice of lipstick colour.

And what did the celebrities tweet after meeting Preity?

Serena: Some hyperactive Indian fan accosted me at lunch today – claimed to be a Bollywood star. Wouldn’t leave till I agreed to a photo…

Bessesar: A 40-year-old trying to act like a 21-year-old broke the security ring to come shake my hand. She said she was a Bollywood star… but I’m not so naïve, ha! She had a crazy accent, American mixed with British…

Jermaine Jackson: This woman needs a dose of Ritalin…

(Note to Preity Zinta fans: please do not send us hate letters, this is meant to be a joke).

Preity better find some real work soon, or she’ll end up boring us just like Mallika Sherawat and Rakhi Sawant.

become overconfident’

Probably for the first time in the life of Oscar and Grammy Award winner composer and singer AR Rahman, he is being criticized.

Rahman’s CWG song has been trashed by all and sundry. But, what exactly went wrong with the genius, who has given the world some real superlative compositions? One couldn’t believe the standing ovations that had started coming his way in the past year… but is it true that the Mozart of Madras has become overconfident and couldn’t do justice to the Rs 5.5 crore composition of the official CWG song?

Sukhwinder Singh, the Chaiyya chaiyya and Jai Ho singer who has closely worked with the

maverick composer, is “quite upset with the flak coming Rahman’s way,” but he candidly adds: “Sometime back, I read Rahman’s interview where he said that ‘the CWG theme song would be better than Shakira’s Waka Waka!’ I had wondered then if this is really the Rahman I’ve known, who was very humble and would never praise his own creations so blatantly. At that time I felt that Rahman’s become overconfident - because a genius never speaks, only his work does the talking!”

Sukhwinder also doesn’t seem to be happy about the lyrics used in the songs and he thinks that Rahman should have taken help from esteemed lyricist Gulzar. Those, who have heard the song, are going hammer and tongs against the absurd lyrics of the song. Words like Yaaro India bula liya...khelo jeeyo e-yo, they claim, sound rather juvenile and don’t even represent an iota of Indian culture, colours and grandeur. How could an Oscar-winning composer present such a shallow song to showcase his

country to the world? Sukhwinder says: “Whenever Rahman won a major award, there was a team that supported his endeavour. There was poetic excellence and singers’ contribution, which added life to his music. Usse Gulzar saab ki yaad kyun nahin aayi? After all, Jai Ho was his poetic contribution!”

If the words of the theme song are being run down with a vengeance, the singing quality of Rahman’s voice has also not gone too well with the masses as well as classes. Sukhi defends his friend, saying that may be everybody has high expectations from the singer and he is facing a professional setback in his life.

Shaadi ke side effects for Manisha Koirala

She’s had a perfect honeymoon and plans to be in Mumbai to attend a few of her film screenings. But Manisha Koirala says her priorities in life have changed after marriage and she’d like to focus on making her marriage a success.

“My husband Samrat (Dahal) and I travelled through Finland. Then we went to Stuttgart (Germany) where I was on the jury of the Stuttgart Film Festival for the Bollywood And Beyond section,” Manisha said about her honeymoon.

Then came the best part of the trip - Paris!

“It’s my dream city. But going there with my husband was a dream beyond a dream. It was a different experience altogether.”

Manisha now intends to buy a home for Samrat and herself in Paris.

Manisha tied the knot with the Nepali businessman in a traditional ceremony in Kathmandu in June.

“My life and priorities have changed. I can’t think beyond the life that I’ve now got with Sam. Though my own family is very precious to me, the time I spend with Sam’s family is very important right now. His mother is a lovely person, and so are his father and brother,” she said.

Manisha, the star of hits such as Bombay and Dil Se, is candid enough to admit that being in a marriage is not easy for a freespirited woman like her.

Manisha returns to Mumbai later this month without her husband. “I have to attend the screening of Onirban’s I Am In New York and then Deepti Naval’s Do Paise Ki Dhoop Chaar Aane Ki Baarish. Both feature me in good roles. And I am committed to attending both the events. I also have a bit of work to complete on the Malayalam film I’m doing. That’s it. After that I’m back in Kathmandu to be with my husband.”

No, SRK will never be a friend again: Salman

Now this rumour can get the Best Rumour of the Year award! A few days ago, there was a buzz that Bollywood’s arch rivals, actors Salman Khan and Shahrukh Khan have patched up again. Then came the news that the two are going to do a film together… Clearing these rumours during an interview recently, Bollywood’s lone bad-boy actor Salman Khan confirmed that it is still warafter that infamous public spat two years ago - and that the two can never be friends again.

“Shahrukh and I don’t talk anymore. We had a misunderstanding and hence parted ways... There is no chance of Shah Rukh and Salman coming together in future,” said Salman resolutely.

“Shahrukh meri girlfriend nahi thi... apni purani girlfreind ko miss nahi karta, Shahrukh ko kya karunga (Shah Rukh was not my girlfriend... I don’t miss my ex-girlfriends for that matter, why will I miss him?).”

What

Another

Raj

‘Rahman’s

SUKHWINDER SINGH

MANISHA KOIRALA

KONKONA SEN SHARMA

SALMAN KHAN

Cine Talk ENTERTAINMENT

Of risk and loss, and emotional victories

Film: LafangeyParindey

Starring: Deepika Padukone, Neil Nitin Mukesh Director: Pradeep Sarkar

“So this is a love story!” says the wry cop at the end of the film while closing the case that exonerates our hero ‘One-Shot Nandu’ of accidently blinding Pinky Palkar in a car accident. Indeed Lafangey Parindey is a love story. And how grotesquely indecorous has been the marketing of this tender and shimmering look at an improbable love in the slums between a free-wheeling boxer and wannabe roller-skating spitfire gone blind.

Deepika Padukone gives to the tale the kind of fluent grace and eloquent spin that the audience associates with the female legends of celluloid, namely Meena Kumari and Nutan. She brings the poignant lyricism of the former and the spirited delicacy of the latter into what’s unarguably one of the best-written female characters in recent times.

When Pinky goes blind all of a sudden, she doesn’t flutter her eyelashes and trip over furniture like any self-respecting blind diva in our cinema would. She quickly picks up the pieces of her shattered life, and yes, also the roller-skates, and leaves home to a sniggering brother’s taunt and a concerned mother’s encouragement to renew her dreams.

The above is one of the many finely written and worded sequences in this film, suffused with a delicate charm and infinite wisdom.

Neil Nitin Mukesh has a tough thankless role. Not only is he that archetype known as the ‘Supportive Lover’ in the script he must also move back in every other sequence to let Deepika walk away with the best expressions and dialogues. Neil never oversteps his boundaries. As the shy fighter who needs the blinded sports-girl’s clairvoyant spirit to take him on the road to love, more than she needs him

to cross that traffic-laden road which she can’t see, Neil gets the lower notes in the scale of the love symphony right.

While the two protagonists’ journey into love via a dance contest (Rab Ne Banadi Jodi revisited) takes centrestage in Pradeep Sarkar’s deftly-cut material, the peripheral characters also get enough space to have their say aggressively without getting hysterical.

A film set in the ghetto is bound to remind the audience of Danny Boyle’s Slumdog Millionaire and Vishal Bhardwaj’s Kaminey. Sarkar dodges both and goes for the most unexpected reference points, namely Douglas Sirk’s The Magnificent Obssession and its desi spinoff Gulzar’s Kinara. As in Kinara, the hero is on a redemptive route taking the blinded girl through the corridors to her dream. It’s a journey undertaken with great warmth, tenderness and loving care.

The dialogues convey a street-side sauciness without getting abusive. Street wisdom need not be eeks-rated.

But hang on. Lafangey… is not soft at the edges Pradeep Sarkar brings to the storyboard a gritty edge-of-the-street desperation that miraculously accommodates a very supple love story.

In a moment that can only be defined as tragiccomic, one of the hero’s friends walks away with one of the most expressive lines in this film. After Pinky goes blind the friend says, Ek minute mein Hema Malini se Thenga Malini ban gayi

The reference to Hema Malini is not lost in a film that takes Gulzar’s Kinara to another shore. The scenes are written by Gopi Puthran with utmost concern for a pitch that conveys high passion without toppling over. Deepika looking into the sky with a lovelorn look in her unseeing eyes asking Neil to describe the moon is a moment that is priceless and poignant.

Cinematographer C. Natarajan Subramanian shoots with loving care. Lafangey… is an inspirational tale told with as little fuss and as much feeling as cinematically possible. Not to be missed.

Subhash K. Jha

Why mortality is not to be feared

Film: Aashayein

Starring: John Abraham, Prateeksha Lonkar, Ashwin Chaitale

Written and directed by Nagesh Kukunoor

This is a film about coping with dying. But that’s not what makes it such a special experience. It’s the writer-director’s profound understanding of human nature that furnishes the simple story with a lucidity and coherence even when the protagonist’s mind is so numbed by physical pain he can barely think straight.

Aashayein is structured as a journey from a bright delusory light, into a place where the radiance comes from a

consciousness of why mortality is not to be feared.

In John Abraham’s eyes are mapped the entire history of the human heart, its follies and foibles as it struggles to make coherent the indecipherable logistics that define our journey across that bridge which everyone crosses from this world to the next.

As that very fine actress Prateeksha Lonkar (a Kukunoor favourite) says, “The only difference between the healthy and the ill is that the former don’t know when they are dying and the latter do.”

Between that state of blissful oblivion where we all think life is forever and that one moment when our delusions come crashing down, there resides some very fine cinema Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s Anand where Rajesh Khanna smiled his way through that wobbly bridge taking us to the next world, is an interesting reference point in Aashayein

I also thought of the actress Supriya Choudhary shouting

into the dispassionate mists in the mountains, “I want to live”. The echoes reverberate all the way to Kukunoor’s heartwarming, funny and elegiac exposition on the truth that lies on the other side of that illusory mountain we call life Kukunoor pays a homage to life per se, and life as we know in the movies about death.

Even in the most poignant places in the art Kukunoor ferrets out some humour. When John’s lovely girlfriend (Sonal Sehgal) hunts him down in his exilic place of the dying, John quips, “So you are not going to behave like one of those heroines in films who dumps the dying hero?”

The fantasy element creeps into the hospice (yes, that’s the spotless space that the story inhabits unostentatiously) with the least amount of fuss. There’s a little boy (the bright and expressive Ashwin Chitale) who weaves mystical tales borrowed from the comic books for the desperate and the dying. Here Kukunoor brings in an element of rakish

Taking Stepmom to a whole new level

Film: WeAreFamily

Cast: Kajol, Kareena Kapoor, Arjun Rampal

Directed by: Siddharth Malhotra

Some films are good to look at. Some feel good at heart. Very few mainstream films manage to look as good on the surface and also capture the heart. “ We Are Family is equally appealing from the outside and at the heart.

It doesn’t take us long into the narration to realize that the debutant director has his own ideas on how urban man-woman relationships work. Siddharth Malhotra brings the traditional compassion and large-heartedness of Sooraj Barjatya’s films into the same line of vision as the urban fables about the man-woman relationship of Gulzar’s Ijaazat and Govind Nihalani’s Drishti. The brew is invigorating and often very very moving in the way movies stopped moving us a long time ago.

The basic premise and even chunks of sequences and dialogues are taken from Chris Columbus’ Stepmom. Are Kajol and Kareena Kapoor as powerful in portraying the wife and the other woman as Susan Sarandon and Julia Roberts in the original?

What if one says the two divas in the desi Stepmom are far more empathetic in their understanding of the complexities of a marriage that has not quite terminated and the alternative relationship which doesn’t know where to go without disrespecting the earlier relationship? Kajol and Kareena share a compelling partnership in portraying a household that’s run by two women.

The intricacies of the triangle are worked out with heartwarming delicacy, so much so that you wonder why the director needed to keep any of elements from the Hollywood film. We Are Family takes the Stepmom saga to another level. It’s an urban fable told with subtlety and a softness of touch which completely avoids excesses of emotions

until the last ostensibly gut-wrenching

she demonstrated such a complete

wouldn’t have wanted this tender-sweet look

finale when the narration gets excessively melodramatic.

The rest of the film is remarkably devoid of extravagant emotions even though the situation described and defined by the plot is susceptible to acute bouts of overt emotion. Having three actors who know how to play down the pitch without taking away the edge in the narration surely helps the situation.

Kajol needs absolutely no recommendation. Her transformation from physically healthy but restless in soul, to a dying but spiritually healed entity happens right in front of our eyes. The little things she does with her eyes and lips just rips a hole in our soul. Yup, she is one of our alltime greats - without trying. The moments when she watches Shreya (Kareena) take charge of her children and husband, find Kajol expressing a mixture of envy and resignation the way only she can.

But it is Kareena Kapoor who is an utter revelation. Never before has

Kareena brings a rare and reined-in passion

Everything that she has done so far on screen is undone as Kareena redefines the role of the Other Woman in Hindi cinema.

Admirably the 6(!!) screenplay writers have worked overtime on Kareena’s part. She could easily have been the bitch who steals Kajol’s husband away. As written in the script, Kareena comes across as flesh and blood an tears - and yes, as a woman of great beauty.

Arjun Rampal has been constantly evolving as an actor. Here he balances out the powerhouse performers on both his sides with a deeply felt emotional binding presence. And by the way, he dances better than Kajol and Kareena in the disappointing Jailhouse Rock number.

Sensibly, Siddharth Malhotra has avoided the temptation of too many confrontational moments between Kajol and Kareena. We

adventure borrowed from the edgy hi-jinks of Indiana

Who says money can’t buy love? John uses bundles of cash to bring a smile to these doomed lives. When he doubles up with pain in womb-like postures of helplessness, we feel his pain.

John in Harrison Ford’s hat and whip cuts a starry figure. He has never been more fetchingly photographed. John’s smile reaches his eyes, makes its way to his heart and then to ours. This film opens new doors in John’s histrionic abilities. It’s a performance that heals and nurtures.

John’s finest moments are reserved for a hot-tempered sharp-tongued 17-year-old girl on a wheelchair, played with intuitive warmth by Anaitha Nayar. He guides the relationship between these two unlikely comrades of unwellness with brilliant restrain and candour. She wants him to make love. He does with his eyes using his unshed

up looking like one of those T. Rama Rao mera-pati-sirf-mera-hai kitsch-kitsch-hota-hai stale-tales from the 1980s.

We Are Family takes the story of a broken marriage to an area of poignancy where the outer edges remain as strong as the inner fabric of the three characters who find themselves trapped in a tragedy not of their making. From the opening birthday sequence where Arjun introduces girlfriend Kareena to his wife and children, with disastrous consequences, the film exercises a high cool-and-calm quotient in its structuring.

At the end, you suddenly realize it’s been a while since we saw a film about Man, Wife and Other Woman tackle the layers of painful separation and reconciliation with such fluency and care.

Go for this one.

tears as lyrical lubricant.

Subhash K. Jha

Here is a performance that defines the character through immense measures of unspoken anguish. Rajesh Khanna in Anand? Nope. John pitches his performance at a more wry and cynical world where true feelings are often smothered in worldly sprints across a wounded civilization.

This is unarguably Kukunoor’s most sensitive and moving work since Iqbal. We often find little sobs pounding at the base of our stomachs. Not all the characters or situations are fully formed and fructified. But even the partly-realized truths in Aashayein convey more common sense and uncommon affection for life than the “entertainers” of today’s cinema where laughter is generated through cracks in places very far removed from the heart.

This one takes us straight to the heart.

Subhash K. Jha

NRI, so what?

The Australia-returned phenomenon has lost its charm in India, and people aren’t even polite about it

humour would soften him.

impress them!”

BY SUNIL GUATAM

My friend was unhappy again. Just back from a trip to India, he looked neither excited nor content. I am not suggesting that excitement and contentment have anything to do with visiting India, but we know it is a culturally correct posture to maintain.

Having known him for over a decade in Australia, I know how much he used to enjoy going back home and would come back with stories of what they did and how everyone was thrilled to see them. This was a much planned trip after a long wait. But this time, he looked as if they refused him entry into the country and he had to spend four weeks pretending to be a baggage handler at the airport.

“Spent too much money?” I asked, hoping he would start talking.

“You know that is not a problem with me,” he retorted defensively.

“So what is it?”

“It’s just that it doesn’t feel great any more. You know, the whole thing about going to India from ‘overseas’.... wide eyed relatives, people loving your accent, loving your presents and loving you in the process....it’s all gone!”

“So it wasn’t like a Rajshri film this time? Laughter, singing, laughter, love, singing, singing?” I tried to cajole him, knowing how he relates everything to movies.

“Yes and no,” he said. “The folks were happy to see us but there was something missing.”

“What could that be? I think the only thing missing this time was the hair on your head,” I said, sure that

“The hearts... the hearts have changed, my friend,” he thumped his chest in true filmi style. “May be you are too shallow to understand.”

I kept quiet because by now he was sufficiently stirred up to do without my help.

“Earlier, after the initial hugs and kisses, we would all get together around our suitcases as we took out the presents for everyone. Each present was received with squeals of joy, gentle complaints of us spending too much money and kids rushing off to show their gifts to their friends.”

“And this time?”

“The response was muted. Apparently, there was nothing new in our presents. They were not ‘foreign’ enough for them. India has everything now, you know. They had a bigger collection of perfumes than us, better watches, more gold,” he explained.

“But at least the kids would have loved the toys you took for them. I am sure they ran off with them,” I offered helpfully.

“Hah! The nephew hid his present under the bed because his friends were coming over and he didn’t want to be embarrassed. The niece had one look at her present and said, ‘But it is made in China. I thought you came from Australia!’”

“What about the seniors?” I said, still hopeful.

“They were more held back. But they did hint that they understood how expensive things are in Sydney. There were nods of understanding, but no eyes lit up in the whole ‘guess what we got for you from Australia’ episode,” he replied.

“Oh,” I tried to sympathize, “why didn’t you try taking them out shopping? You could spend like a maniac and

“Shopping? Do you know how expensive things are now?” he retorted. “You can spend ten thousand rupees and let a newborn carry all the shopping! And impress who? Have you seen how the Indians spend these days? They eat momos for a thousand rupees everyday. One lakh is loose change now. I know someone who pays 1.25 lakh rupees a month on rent! VIP tickets at the IPL are worth Rs 20,000 each and they are the first to be sold out! I’ll be a maniac if I try to impress them by spending. In fact, I told one retailer that we were from Sydney and he said: Oh ok, I’ll make it cheaper for you, then.”

“But a few pictures of Australia should have worked. Didn’t you take your pictures of your trips to the Uluru, Gold Coast and Tassie? After all these are exotic locations not found in India,” I insisted, trying for all it was worth.

“My friend, I am sure you know that airports are found in India! Do these guys travel or what? You take out one picture of Australia and they show you 10 from 5 destinations in Europe. Apparently, big companies regularly send their employees overseas as part of their package,” he replied despairingly.

“So there is nothing to feel good about the entire trip from a ‘show-off’ point of view? This was Delhi, weren’t you supposed to go to Mumbai as well? How did that go?”

“Oh the Mumbai part was great! We decided not to go shopping to avoid embarrassment. Didn’t exchange any holiday pictures. And yes, people loved our gifts too,” he said with a weak smile.

“How come?” I was truly curious.

“Because we bought all the Mumbai gifts from Delhi.”

I am not suggesting that excitement and contentment have anything to do with visiting India, but we know it is a culturally correct posture to maintain

I told one retailer that we were from Sydney and he said: Oh ok, I’ll make it cheaper for you, then