2012-03 Adelaide

Indian '(tu~tralian '(t1~oeiation of ~outh '(tu~tralia lne. proudt y pr{Z~{Znt1

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FEATURING ENTERTAIM ENT-Classical/Bollywood/Regiona I Indian Performances FOOD, WINE AND BEER-Multi-cuisine Restaurants, Ethnic Food Stalls, Indian Tea, Ice Cream and many other refreshments!

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EDITORIAL INDIAN LINK PUBLISHER

Pawan Luthra

Carr Canberra elevation •

EDITOR

IS good news for India

Rajni Anand Luthra ASSISTANT EDITOR

Sheryl Dixit MELBOURNE

Preeti Jabbal

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CONTRIBUTORS

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Kamal Utsav Jagad, Sujith Krishnan, Usha Ramanujam Arvind, Shafeen Mustaq, Arveen Sharma, Prakash Subbarao, Chitra Sudarshan, Noel G deSouza, Tim Blight, Geeta Khurana, Thomas King, Talia Kaur, Shraddha Arjun, Liz Gaete, Rani Jhala, Nancy Althea, Uzma Beg ADVERTISING MANAGER

Vivek Trivedi 02 92621766

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Nitika Sondhi 02 9279 2004

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Danielle Cairis

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@ind ianlink.com.au

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BY

PAWAN LUTHRA

he new Foreign Minister o f J\ustmlia, Bob Carr had this to say in his blog of 15 Feb. 2012 "The Federal Government has expanded uranium mining and opened exports ro India. South Australia boasts what will become the world's largest uranium mi ne. The ban for NSW reflected the anti-nuclear sentiment of the 1980s and it is irrelevant today when to beat global warming we urgently need every available source of carbon-free energy."

His appointment would have pleased many in the lndian government, none more so than the form er Consul General of lndia (Sydney) M. Ganapathi. Gana, as be was popularly known, is now Secretary (\Xlest) in the Ministry of External Affairs in India. Many a time, both the d1en Premier of NSW Bob Carr and die Indian Consul General were seen enjoying a cup of coffee in a coffee shop at Sydney's Bligh Street.

Both vociferous read ers, they enjoyed

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stinmlaring debates abom historical and contemporary issues. Carr was always keen to understand more about lndia and who better man one of lndia's finest diplomats to enlighten him on th is aspect.

Bob Carr has often expressed h is admiration for tl1e democratic traditions of lndia. ln a conversation, he expressed his amazement at the peacefulness of the 2004 elections in which over 670 million voted, the incumbent BJP lost and handed the keys of me country to tl1e Opposition Congress parry without any bloodshed. He marvelled at the maturity of tl1e system. H.is admiration of tl1e local Indian etluc of hard work and desire for higher learning was a mantra he often repeated at Indian community events. It was during his tenure as premier mat me NSW Parliament was introduced co D iwali celebrations, now such a highlight of our community's annual social calendar.

B ob Carr travelled to L1dia a few ti.mes, born before and after becoming Premier.

He is known for his love of bush walking and lists h is rime on me foothills of the Himalayas as one of his fondest memories. H is wife Helena also has her Indian links, with an Indian fatl1er, Lourd es, and Chinese mother, Regina,

who both mer in Malaysia.

So how will India fearure in Australia's pages now that Carr is in charge of Foreign Affairs?

While PM Julia Gillard was able to p ush through the sale of uranium to lndia at me recent Labor party conference, it had evo ked a strong reaction from tl1e then Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd. Whether it was a reaction to the snub which was directed at him as the PM had not consulted h im prior to mis change of Labor policy, or whe.tl1er he believed that India did not deserve to be sold uranium, Rudd 's post conference comments indicated quite clearly that tl1e actual journey of transition from policy tQ sale could be arduous for India. Due diligence and monitoring aspects with India will have to be agreed upon, bur with Carr at the helm, tl1ere would be a balance in tl1is direction.

Foreign M inister Carr needs also to visit lndia sooner railier than later. T he mood towards Australia is quite friendly at tl1e moment after months of bad p ress. The students' issue has largely died down and uranium sales are on the way forward .

It .is rime to engage o nce again and forge deeper friendships.

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23 - 25 March 2012 Darling Harbour, Sydney

Friday 23 March - I l am - 7pm > Special section and events for children and young people, groups from schools > Performances, seminars and cu ltural workshops about diversity and multiculturalism

Saturday 24 March 11am - 8pm > Yoga, prayers, meditation activities > Large street procession from Hyde Park to Tumbalong Park, Darling Harbour > Rath Yatra (hand pulled Chariot) Proudly supported by:

Sunday 25 March - 11am - 7pm > Traditional ancient practise of colour throwi ng/ playing colours > Dance, music groups and exhibitions > During all festival there will be food and merchandise stalls

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ARTS

The power of colour f • • •

A first-time film-maker makes it to the finals at this year's Tropfest

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every year and one such finalist chis year was the extremely gifted and creacive Melbounre-based youtl1 Kailas P.rasannan for bis film RGB (Red, Blue &Gm11).

Having watched tl1e film, I can voud1 that it's a work of ar t and is sure co transport you ro a completely different world.

This short film, just five minutes in duration, encompasses a very interesting concept in tl1at it is about a young man suffering from rotal colour-blindness who can see three colo urs - red, blue and green, but only one at a time.

Who would have tl1ought a weird fondness for M&Ms would be the starting point for a criticallyacclaimed short film!

Kai.las notes, 'We take colo ur for granted ... we all must take a moment in our busy lives to pause and admire everything a.round us " .

According to Kailas, advancement in technology was another decisive factor in making the film. He explains, "I srumbled upon software tl1at could highlight just a single colour from an image and I tl1en incorporated this into a story of a person being able to see only one colour at a

rule out the possibility of making the switch to show business. "lf th e oppormnity does come along to be a filmmaker, I'll definitely take it up. I have a few ideas bur need to be smart co accomplish diem one at a rime. The ultimate goal would be being a pan of feature film productions".

Looki ng ahead, Kailas has several upco ming vemures which a.re in their early stages at tl1e mo men t. I-le claims, "My next p roject would be a short film witl1 a much o f h orror. In regards tO Tropfest 20 13, 1 have an idea which Rob is currently helping me with and I hope to produce anotl1er shorr film this year. Tropfest bas boosted my confidence as a budding filmmaker and alchough we as a team lack technical expertise, we know char we can still achieve w hat we want. RGB 's success has mocivated us to attem pt mo.re short films".

1\fa ny congratulations to Kailas on his scupendous run at Tropfest 2012. He is inspiration-personified as be bas shown us that we can ach ieve our goals if we work towards tl1em with ceaseless enthusiasm irrespective of where we are and what we do. You can follow http://www.facebook. com /ManjadiEncerta.inrnenr for updates.

alias Prasarurnn has loved M&Ms since he was a kid. By habit however, he eatS them one colour ac a cirne... ow you might think chis is eccen tric, but it has opened up a whole new world for chis young engineering student.

What if we could see only one colour ac a cirne, the thought o ccuJ"Ced co him one day. He turned that thought into a film, wh ich was picked as a finalise in Australia's most popular short film fescival Tropfest.

Tropfest, 'the largest short film fescival in the world' and one of Australia's many symbolic cultural. events, presents a unique platform co aspiring filmmakers in the country. What makes Tropfest discinctive is that the films created are wholly for the festival and include a different Tropfest Signature Item (TS]) every year.

For instance, the TSl for 2012 was 'Light Bulb'. (For 2013 it is 'Balloon'). 16 finalists are selected from an average of 700 entries

K

INDIAN LINK

time".

\'(/hat makes his srory even more intriguin g is that he has

no background in film -making: his only technical knmvledge came from editing home videos and picru.res in the past wh idi Ltltimately came in bandy. He was driven purely by confidence, passion and desire ro make RGB a reality.

However, as a beginner, he's had his share of challenges dming tl1e enc.ire film-making process and is very thankful to his tean1, Jason PaL11er (cinemarographer), Rob LaTerra (actor) and Abin Thomas (production assistant) for standing by him through cough times - he admits he thought of abandoning the entire project, not once but twice.

RG/3 was made on a shoestring budget of $600. Kailas purchased the audio righ tS for the film for just $80 online and tl1e film was shot during weekends in Melbourne. lt took four months to complete. To explain an idea in five minutes is no easy task as Kailas agrees, " Conveying the story in a few minutes while trying to maintain a good pace was indeed a challenge and moreover, 1 foun d it hard to stay constantly motivated".

The multi- calentecl Kai.las is a professional Fire & Safety Engineer who hopes to complete his Masters degree in E ngineering by the end o f th.is year bm doesn't

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FIRSTPERSON

Oil bole UP, UP, UP! A new ad for lUP- made right here in Sydney

Boflywood star Sharman Joshi in the latest ad for 7UP

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Sharman Joshi dancing co it, and to cop it off, making a penguin shake a leg coo in a dance-off. ..

This is the latest 7UP commercial from PepsiCo. So, big deal, you say! Well, for me ir is, as I harbour some fond memories arrached witb this commercial.

The ad was filmed righr here in Sydney not so long ago, directed by renowned Australian director Damien Toogood. No, 1 wasn'r o ne of those bystanders trying ro catch a glimpse of rhe shoot...

I was actually a part of the shoor!

Here, 1 suggesr, you log on co YouTube and see the ad for yourselves.

That pretty young lady (oops! I seem to have shed off my modesty already!) in pink standing with her 'screen' fanuly, inquisitively scaring at tbe penguin, is 111011 And now having trumpeted my presence in the television commercial, I owe you a share of my wonderful experience.

The Di/ Bole T Feel UP ad for 7UP was shot over a two-clay period in Sydney on the same location where the Channel Ten show The &11011ators was /i.Jmed. Apart from the brand ambassador (Sharman in this case), the casting required an Indian family ~1usband, wife and son), a young coUege girl, a Japanese couple and yes, 'The Penguin'.

6 MARCM 2012

With the exception of the first and last characters, aU of us were auditioned and once selected, we were asked to go in for the dress rehearsal a day before the shoot. \'{,'bile d1e director approved aU the other costumes and looks at once, my character (the Indian mom) proved ro be a problem cluld. Beige, pink or lavender. .. what k11rti should the Indian mom be wearing? Denims, capris or cotton pants . .. what should be d1e bonoms? After some creative brainstorming, beige and denim were given the nod of approval.

But a.las, ch.is was not going to be so easy!

Day 1, call time 7.30am After a quick brekkie, the crew was busy setting up the equipment and looking into aU the necessary detailing chat a film shoot requires, while the case got caked up. I was already feeling Like a scar with aU the debate and creative exchanges revolving arotmd my dress, yet again! '\\7hat should the Indian mom wear?' This time the agency wanted a bright colour, while the director had earlier zeroed in on the beige. So here I was in and out of the dressing room, sasha;~ng to a.11 d1e possible permutations and combinations of various colours and tops and bottoms. Finally, finally - d1e pink kl1rti and beige trousers were the chosen ones!

This was not d1e only attention coming my way. I was the only Indian on set aware of the srams of BoUywood st,'U Sharman Joshi and his resume, and had plenty to keep myself busy as I courted a raUy of questions from my feUow cast members. How big a star is he? What movies has he clone? Is he a good actor? Is he very famous

in India? Is be as big as Shah Rukh Khan? (Idiots, I said co chem ... you know, 3 Idiots, the Aa.mir Khan movie - Sharman was the guy that jumped, to protect his maces).

For someone who's been literally Living off Bollywood for the past few years (a.s an entertainment journalist in India), I regurgitated all my Bo.llyvv'ood gyaa11 and loaded them w:id1 facts and figures.

Bue the answer co one question remained even beyond my understanding - is he Aying down from India only for a day to shoot this ad, that too indoors? I confess chat question had been on my mind as well. Bue now having seen the final version on-air with the latest in CGI (computer generated imagery) and motion capmre technology, who:~ complaining or rather questioning!

Soon our 'Bollywood star' arrived. Unassuming, calm and composed, Sharman acknowledged our presence wim a gentle smile and walked straight to the set; he meant business. Yes, he knew be had only a day and lots and lors of dancing to do. So here we sat watching Sharman perfect his dance moves. Have to g ive credit to om Bollywood training, it makes dancing a piece of cake for our desi accors .... Sharman was no different. With no 'starry' breaks, me actor was truly a treat to watcl1 as he a:iecl to perfect every move a.ad every expression. Matching steps with the famous HoUywood choreographer Simon Lind of Happy Feel 2 fame ain't easy, but our desi boy Sharman did it with ease and elan.

So when finaUy it was d1e mrn of the rest of the cast to come inro me frame, we felt the excitement running through our veins. \Vlule

Shannan's dance-off wid1 d1e (imaginary) Penguin continued, we did bir of acting. Day 1 ended with the last shot in d1e ad, the 'claps' (deservedly so for our st,'lr performer!)

Day 2, call time 7:30am Having had a sumpmous breakfast, Day 2 was sans Sharman as he bad done his bit and Aown back co India. So we continued shooting our parts to pe1·fection. le was a comparatively shorter day for us as we wrapped up post-lunch. f-:lm,vever the crew was still \Vorking on tl1e CGI and all d1e technical derailing. What professionalism!

Just two days and we had already become like family, chatting, having fun and working hard too. So now d1ar it was time to say goodbye, the heart felt some weight. With hugs and kisses and lots of wishes, we parted ways with the hope of meeting someday, somewhere, maybe for yet another

shoot. Till then, when I look back at d1e experience, all l can say is, "Dil Bole I Fa/ UP!" Meanwhile, tbe 32-year-old Joshi said in a statement about the ad, "The ?UP philosophy of Di/ Bole I Feel UP reflects the mood of our country at the moment, and how \Ve always manage to stay positi,7e".

Cheers to mat. .. . 7UP anyone?

''

While the director approved all the other costumes and looks at once, my character (the Indian mom) proved to be a problem child.

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wlr!.mft tY>®t»QK E3t»rrtol6D 6»®Lrrifi,j; j@dl!l).ff SYDNE,Y MCJRUQAN TEMPLE

THIRUVIZHA (ANNUAL FESTIVAL) ~::=----..:--=:=:,

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The annual festival of the Sydney Murugan Temple commences on the 27th of March 2012 HOISTING OF THE FLAG

Tuesday 27.03.2012

Gffi rr u, <8 LJJ !D!D Lb

Wednesday 04.04.2012

CHARIOT FESTIVAL <8~rr ~ ~®6lllwrr

Thursday 05.04.2012

WATER CUTTING CEREMONY

~rr~~LD Friday 06.04.2012

POONKAVANAM . .

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Come and receive the blessings of Lord Muruga during the annual festival ! ~6m~6ll® Lb 6ll(!!)ffi

INDIAN LINK

! (!P@ffi~ ~®6TT GUIDJffi !!

MARCI-I 2012 7

SCIENCE

Hair could hold the key Unlocking cancer codes with human hair is the specialty area ofa young Macquarie Uni researcher

lock of hair could quite literally bold tbe key! A significant discovery by lndian origin researcher Dharmica M isery has led to a novel approach in the war against breast cancer.

Affecting women of all. ages, the dreaded killer is the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths among women, \,rich one in eleven at risk of developing the disease.

Currently doctors use what is known as the "triple test" to identify potential breast cancer patients. Based on farnily history, it could typically include physical examination, mrunmogram, ultrasound or l'vIRI and biopsy.

In the fumre, Misery's exciting new findings could well provide a safe and viable alternative to these painful tests - one time is suitable for women o f all ages.

The PhD student at Macquarie University's Australian School of Advanced Medicine has identified tl1at women wit!, breast cru1cer have higher levels of phospholipids (fat derivatives) in their bloodstrerun iliac cru1 be detected in tl1eir hair.

"The theory behind this biology," Dbarmica told Tndirm Li11k, "is chat the cancer secretes lipids into tl1e bloodstream which are taken up b y the hair fo.llicle ru1d incorporated into the patient's hair. Lipids are found in hair cell membranes as well as on the exterior of the hair shaft (a result of sebum and hair produces)."

According to Misery, the particular lipids of interest are me internal ones. "Even though lipids are found in hair cells, what we are looking for is an increase in breast cancer-associated lipids," she clarified.

Although the correlation between breast cancer and cha11ge in hair strucmre was first noted

by Veronica James in 1999, Mistry has fu1ally identified tl1e acmal molecules tliat cause tlus cha11ge.

"Initially we assumed it was a protein change in the hair that is associated with breast cancer," she stated. "However in 2009, we discovered tliat it was acmally a lipid that was giving rise to the changed x-ray diffraction pattern."

T lus discovery, in face, was quite

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8 MARCM 2012

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Dharmica Mistry accidental. Naturally inquisitive, Mistry ru1alysed srunples of her own hair to find telltale rings quite siniilar to diseased ones, even though she is ca11cer-free.

"Ir all came to light from using my hair as a normal control for the x-ra)' diffraction studies. M)' hai.r exhibited the change we see in a cancer patient's hair, and I had been using olive oil as a conditio ner. Olive oil is a lipid, and when I stopped applying it co my hair, the pattern reverted to a normal one," she explained.

"This ttiggered furtl1er investigation and we were able to convincing!)' demonstrate that one or more lipids were responsible for the breast ca11cer feature in the diffract.ion pattern," continued Misery.

Based on her hypothesis, a group of researchers have now developed a rest to identify altered cell structures in women witl1 breast cancer.

"To develop a screening test for breast ca11cer, we cm a sample of die patient's hair, close to die scalp, a11d extract the lipids from the hair.

We then use a technique called mass spectrometry to analyse die samples," she explained.

Supervised by Macquarie ULuversity's Dr Peter French and Professor l\.fark Connor, tl1e work

is being funded by SBC Research Limited, a private compru1y sec up in 2010 to explore the use of both x-ray diffraction and mass spectrometry of hair to evenmally develop the test for breast cru1cer.

Mistry, who has bee□ researching this speci fie area since 2008, believes tl1ar the technology could definitely be used as a supplement to manm1ography and has die potential to replace mammography, if ascertaining the specific lipids involved increased the accuracy.

SBC is currently in the midst of a cli1ucal trial to firstly, identify the lipids involved and then to determine the accuracy of a test based on those lipids.

"To this end, we have been collecting hair from clinics in Sydney and have been using the mass spectrometry facilities of Metabolomics Australia in Melbourne," said Mistry.

Currently her team is a lso working o n finding tlie association between tl1e rumour stage and the level of lipid found in hair.

As yet, commercialisation is still a couple of years away, she admitted. "\Xie still need to conduct extensive studies to confirm the accmacy of using this reclu10logy to detect breast cancer.

However, if we are successful, rbe

potential is enormous".

The current standard screening system (mammography) is not ro utinely available for women under the age o f 50 for a range of reasons. "However, once we have developed a sensitive, specific and non-invasive test using hair, it is possible that this will become a muversal screening tesr for women of aU ages," she added hopefully.

Hmnan bio logy and aU irs diverse aspects, particularly tl1e way d1e brain functions, fascinate the young researcher. "lt is extremely compelling a11d constantly challenging," says the UK born Mistry who has a degree in Microbiology. "In all honesty, ] wasn't sure what research was about until my fomth year at Sydney Un iversity," she admitted candidly.

"Studying strange bacteria that live in eucal ypt trees, 1 found they could infect humans too. I learnt so much that year and found that real science is all about chinking o utside the square and pushing the boundaries - and all t hat is possible in research".

A positive outcome of SBC's clinical trials could provide a lughly sensitive and painless test for breast cancer, with the potential to significantly reduce the probability of dead,.

www.indianlink.com.au

SCIENCE

•

Salvation of the cat s ec1es A ground-breaking discovery by an Indian researcher could mean saving the wildcat family from extinction

s rop predators, wild cats may be at d1e pinnacle of the food chain; sadly they are Icings of the jungle no more.

Human monopoly, poaching and indiscriminate commercialisation have invaded their territory, pushing the big cats co near extinction.

But Homo sapiens could well have a chance to atone for past misrakes and re-establish a more sustainable planet, where aU creatures great and smaU co-exist 11aking a significant breakd1rough in the battle to save the endangered species, a new finding by an Indian researcher at Melbourne's Monash University has opened the door to conservation and regeneration.

32 year old Rajneesh Verma has successfully produced "embryonic stem-like ceUs" from the tissue of an adult snow Jeopard.

Ear tissue samples were coUected from a s110\\' leopard at New South Wales' Mogo Zoo and then manipulated to behave like embryonic stem cells. These cells Gill now help scientiscs Lmderscand the developmental biology of d1e creamre.

While d1is technique has been previously effective with mice and white rhinos, this is the first time it is being employed for the cat family.

Verma's findings are the culmination of a rum-year research project at i\fonash Institute of Medical Research (MlMR). The Indian PhD smdenc, who was supervised

by Dr Paul Verma, worked in conjunction with Associate Professor Peter Temple-Smid1 of Monash U niversity's Department of Obstetrics and G ynaecology, as weU as Professor :Michael HoUand of the University of Queensland.

The pat:11-breaking results were recently published in Tberiogenolt!gy, an internationally acclaimed joumal for animal reproductive biologiscs.

"Otherwise known as induced pluripotent stem ceUs (iPSC), tl1e technique can create any ceU in die body, including reproductive cells or gametes," an upbeat Verma told I11dia11 Liflk.

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INDIAN LINK

His breakthrough is particularly significant due to the difficulty of obtaining gametes, even from animals in captivity. Previously, the only way to harvest ceUs was to tal{e embryonic stem ceUs from snow leopard embryos. For conservarionists, captive breeding and in vitcio-fertilisation are currently the only options; but besides being costly and painful.ly invasive, d1ey are plagued by problems such as inbreeding and low fertility.

"Once embryonic stem-like cells are created, tl1ey can be used as a donor celJ co increase the efficiency of cloning or can be mamred into eggs or sperm - making them essential building blocks for assisted reproductive technologies:' he further explained.

"The greatest advantage o f this technology is chat it is noninvasive. I know there is a lot of opposition to cloning and manipulating ilie environment. But if science can save some species from extinction, why not use it in a positive way," Verma added.

According ro Verma, tlus exciting new researcl1 on what has been dubbed as "potential test rube cubs" could also be extended to other th reatened species. Verma is already working to replicate Lus success with other wild cacs including tl1e Bengal tiger, serval and jaguar.

The Lucknow lad's obsession with wild cats goes a long way. "As a child growing up in India, I was always fascinated by these exotic species. I enjoyed going co the zoo and watching them, hoping co one day work with diem," he reminisced. And the fact d1at the.ir numbers were rapidly dwindling, spurred him co act His only professional regret is the fact chat his research specimens are normaUy sedated. "l enjoy patting diem.

Unfortunately, I can't play wid1 chem like one would with cats or dogs," he laments.

When his fan1ily migrated to Australia after !us HSC, Verma opted co pursue a degree in biotechnology. In 2003, be joined ivfonash University working on bovine cloning. Over the years, he has diversified in aU d1e veterinary reproductive techniques, including IVF, stem cells and cloning.

"To me, science is about always raking risks and entering Lmcharted territories wid1 the aim of finding answers and cutting edge technologies," said Verma.

As a PhD student, Verma therefore was keen co sr.-irt research on die wildcat project even before the funding came through. ''For me, d1is project was au o pportunity to do soruetlung for tl1e wild cats, but something for India as weU, because tigets

are such an integral part of Indian ethos," he seated.

"Fortunately, wid1 the support of Professor Bryan Williams, Director of Monash lnstinite of 1fedical Research, l received an instin1te scholarship to conduct chis exciting work and things fell into place," he continued.

Pro mpted by his recent breakthrough, Verma is already in talks wit:11 Indian conservation experts and forestry department officials, and hopes co one day establish a research centre for tl1e conservation of India's national animal.

"My research holds great potential for the Bengal tiger, to save tl1e species from decli1ung in numbers. HopefuUy some fruitful c<;>Uaboration could work our soon," he added.

"By generating seem cells we've taken the first step in creating reproductive cells from adult tissues of an endangered animal. ln the future, we ain1 to harness the potential of the iPS cells and create offspring. Tb.is would help save species from extinction," be concluded.

However, as Lhe double edged sword of funding and ernics hangs over the issue, Verma admitted drnt d1e dream of breeding endangered species in labs using artificial embryonic stem cells c<;>uld still be )'ears away.

Rajneesh Verma

MARCI-I 2O12 9

FUNDRAISER

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An Ind 1ansummer The Taj Foundation pulls offa glamorous event for its maiden fund-raiser

Brett Lee performs with his band

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he philamhropic dreams of four young members of our commruuty rook off in fantastic style as their maiden timd- raisiag event contributed a whopping $150,000 to charity last month, Bobby Singh, E lora Das,Junita Mushenko and Danny Bhandari formally launched the Taj Foundation in lace February as a not- for-profit organisation ro raise funds for charitable endeavours.

Their debut event, which raised funds for Aussie cricketer Brett Lee's Mewsic Foundation in India and for the Steve Waugh Foundation in Australia, attracted bigwigs from the corporate world, politics and sport.

The guests were treated to the sounds and Savours of India on a glowing swnmer's evening. le was silk and sequins galore at the Sydney Convention Centre overlooking the glistening waterfront at Darling Harbour, at the special event titled An Indian S11t11111er. Rajputana furnislungs, tabla beats and mehendi artists created a feel of India.

The guests included cricket legends Steve Waugh, Brett Lee and Glen McGratl1, as well as Gina Rinehart, Sanjay Reddy, Jack Cowin, SW Prenuer Barry O'Farrell and former NSW

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Premier Kristina Keneally. Consul General of India Amit Dasgpura, recent Miss Earth from India Nicole Faria, Peter Cummings and Dan Christian were also present.

But without a doubt, it was the celebrity cricke.ters who were the main stars of the night.

Brett Lee came wearing his 'm usician' hat and brought along his band White Shoe Theory. He played the guitar and sang with the lead vocalist a new song Tn M] Shoes. (A foot tapping number, it was an instant hit with tl,e audience). Recalling his first visit to India in 1994, he declared he was so moved by tl1e country chat he had decided ro give something back. His charitable foundation Mewsic ''aims to heal, educate and empower marginalised cJ1ildren in India through music merapy", It provides children a creative learning environment where their self-confidence can be nurtured. Six Mewsic centres have so far been launched, mree in Mumbai locations and one each in LL1cknow, Surat and Hyderabad.

Of course Brett also spoke about cricket (the foUowing day was the scheduled India-Australia one dayer). " I r's an Indian summer tonight, but hopefully won't be tomorrow ,'light," he quipped.

(India beat Australia convincingly the next day, although the win did nothing for the team's campaign in tl1e series). He spoke of his regard for Steve Waugh, who he described as "revered as a god in India", and his inspiration for chai:itable works.

He added, "1 think the Taj

(From left) Dr Horry Horinoth (Cricket NSW), Poul Brinsmead and Rikhob Join (Pearls Australasia), Barry O'Farrell (Premier ofNSW), Peter Madrers (Pearls Australasia) and Brett Lee

Foundation will strengtl1en ties between South Asia and Australia, by forging relationships between second-generation South Asian-Australians ;i.nd the homelands of d1eir parents. That can only benefit each country culturally, economically and most importantly plillanchropically'. ln his address, Steve Waugh spoke about meeting with Mother Theresa - the in spiration for his own philanthropic activities and for the creation of the Steve Waugh Foundation. He also spoke abom what 11.is charity does in Australia in their work for children wit!, rare cliseases. Cricket feamred in his speech too: 11.is anecdotes with his team-maces elicited much laughter, such as Brett Lee practicing a bowling technique (sans the ball of course!) at the Sistine Chapel on one of their trips there.

"Brett and I were part of some great sides on tl1e field and

it is fantastic ro team up with him again to support the Taj Foundation," \~augh concluded.

Both cricketers manked Taj Foundation for the initiative and for brin ging people togetheL \Xlhen o ne speaker mistakenly referred to Steve Waugh as Shane \Xlarne, one couldn't help but think, why is Shane not here, given his India connections .. . ?

Liz on bis arm, in a glamorous sari, would have made headlines for sure!

Sri Lankan cricketer Kumar Sangakkara sent a video message wislung the Taj foundation well in its endeavours.

Why were d1ere no Indian cricl{eters present?

"The Indian cricket team were invited bur unfortunately due to touring commitments were unable to attend ," Taj Foundation director Junita Jvlusheuko .revealed. No one from me lndian team sent a message eitl1er -

was this anod1er sampler of the general apad1y they showed on the field? Who knows!

Taj Foundation Ambassador Dr Sam Prince presented an inspiring address as well. He spoke about his journey as student ro becoming the owner of a chain of lvfexican restaurn.ncs in Australia and graduating from medicine much earlier d,an most at 22. He spoke about the most ambitious goal of .leading a team o f individuals to elinunare scabies from Australia. This happen s to be the first phase of h is philand1ropic efforts through a program called 'One D isease At A Time'. He received a resounding applause by d1e audience who were moved by his speech.

Barry O'Farrell, Prenuer of I SW detailed his recent visit to India and stressed tl1e need for fostering strong re.lationsl'lips with me Indian subcon tinent. He congratulated Taj Foundation and spoke in praise of charitable organisations such as Steve Waugh Foundation and Mewsic whidt work for the betterment of children ia A L1stralia ,Uld the Indian subcontinent.

Guests pledged d1eir support in a grand auction and in donations.

Indira Naidoo was MC for the night, and entertainment was provided by Justice Crew, Platinum Dhols, tabla artistes, Sirens Bolly\vood dance group and DJ Kish .

Speak.iogwitl1 llldi,111 Link later, director Junita Mushenko revealed how the idea for me night originated. "The think tank evolved over the months, as black tie ball, charity and cricket took centre stage as key concepts.

Februnry 2012 was an opportw1ity d1at could not be missed as t he Indian and Sri Lank.an cricket teams toured Australia. [ovo lving the star power of Brett Lee and Steve Waugh was a narnral choice as they are so well regarded locaUy and abroad, not only for their sporting achievement but also for meir plillantluopic programs".

Regarding future activities, Mushen.ko said, "The Taj Foundation hopes to increase its membership base wid1 a view to providing community events which promote South Asian culture in aJJ its richness and complexity. L1 addition, opportunities will be provided for professional networking, linking key enterprises and individuals to strengthen eco nonuc relations between Australia and South Asia".

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MARCI-I 2012 11

COVER STORY

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businesses in sectors including advanced manufacmrin g, energy generation and distr.ibutiort, utilities, building automation, and mining and natural resources.

Acade1nia and researchers will together d evelop solutions that tackle issues core co industry, such as improving energy efficiency, raising productivity and addressing climate change.

ABB India CEO Bazmi Husain commenced on the benefits of this aU.iance in ics ability co draw on the global expertise o f a company that invests more than US$1 billion a year in R&D globaUy - much of it directed at ABB's seven Corporate Research Centres.

Banking products Vicrorian company GRG Internacional Limited (which supplies and distributes G RG Banking ATMs and management sofovare and additional banking products and services) signed a lvloU with the M.adhya Pradesh Consultancy Organisation (MPCON) to supply i\TMs and cash dispensers for eligible recipients co access payments using transaction cards that will also be issued by GRG. One of the key outcomes will be a distribution system for payments made under India's l ational Rural Employment Guarantee Ace (MGNREGA), which will substantially improve the efficiencies o f government welfare.

14 MARCI-I 2012

The agreement will create 50 new jobs in V ic roria and another $500 million in Victorian exports over the next 10 rears.

Subject to final cont.races G RG expects to deliver 5,000 ATMs, 25,000 point-of-sale terminals and four million cards, to be deployed over three years under a 10-year agreement.

Defence and aerospace A major Indo-V.icrorian joint venture in Bangalore was also launched cl.iring che premier's trip.

Vyoneesh Rosebank Technologies (VRT), wiU manufacture, maintain and provide product support for components and equipment used

by India's d efence and aerospace industry.

The Victorian parcoer, Roseban k E ngineering, is a leading supplier of defence, commercial aerospace and land systems products and services, with customers including the defence forces of A L1scralia, USA and Malaysia.

Mr Baillieu unveiled a plaque to mark the start of construction on a new facility for VRT in Bangalore, tliat will operate stateof-the-art design, manufacturing and engineering technology. " Rosebank Engineering will be responsible for training VRT staff, and provide its great expertise and skills to help en sure VRT becomes an Indian leader in defence and aerospace services," l'v[r Baillieu said.

Th.is project will deliver approximately 10 new jobs in Victoria in the near fomre.

Clean technology vehicles A nother MoU was signed with LJdian automotive pio neer M:abi nclra Reva Electric Vehicles to suppon a feasibility smdy exploring the potential for research, supply chain development, and manufacturing of clean technology vehicles in Victoria.

Mr Baillieu said V ictoria was a driver o f the Australian automotive industry and o ffered companies such as Mahindra Reva a comprehensive suite of capabilities, from initial concep t and design right duough to manufacrure and assembly. l\fabindra Reva is a pioneer of electric vehicle technologies and was one of d1e first companies to in troduce electric vehicles woddwide.

Mr Baillien also welcomed new parmerships between Mahindra Reva and three distinguished Victorian researcl1 institutions: d1e Victorian-based Auto motive Cooperative Research Centre, Latrobe University, and Swinburne University.

Mahindra Reva has entered inco an MoU with the i\utoCRC to establish an operational framework for an Applied Research Program.

The two-year MoU will facilitate

d1e sharing of relevant confidential in formation and enable the two parties to establish speciiic projec t agreements under tbe Applied Research Program.

The company has also en tered into a three year MoU wid1 La Trobe to facilitate coUaborntive research and development for new energy management technologies.

The research program will develop new concepts and techniques for high-efficiency building design, electric vehicles, and vehicle-to-grid technologies.

E netgy management systems for commercial buildings would encourage ernployees to use electcic vehicles, which could in turn serve as a source of energy for the workplace or help to stabilise renewable energy sources.

Mr Checan Maini, "the man behind Reva", v.rill become Swinburne University's 6rst E ntrepreneur in Residence, and will be engaged in the e..xcelleot work being w1dertaken by d1e Swinburne E lectric Vehicle Group.

Victoria's automotive excellence showcased The Future Technology Trends in d1e Automotive Sector Conference held during d1e Victorian Government's trade mission co ln dia showcased t he state's technological prowess in the automotive sector. 17 leading Victorian au tomotive companies and research organisations w id1 world-leading capabilities were a

part of the delegation who met with leading Indian au tomotive operations to discuss new opportunities for industry and research partnerships.

Mr Richard Dalla-Rjva (Minister for Manu facmring, Exports and Trade) said Victorian ideas, technologies and componeocs were found in hundreds of automotive models worldwide.

"Ou.r home-grown innovations such as the uce and variable ratio rack and pinion steering have had a significant and lasting im pact on the industry around the world," he said. " Our local automotive industry h as also been quick to participate in the global trend cowards low and no-emissions vehicles. It has developed unique skills to produce m ultiple model variants on a single production line and innovative products d1at are profitable at niche volumes".

"Today Victoria is one of only 13 locations in the world with the capability to take a vehicle through the entire production process - from concept, design and engineering through to manufacmre and delivery to the showroom floor.

"One of our recent successes in tbe global marker was the Ford Figo, India's own 201 1 International Car of d1e Year and the most awarded car ever - designed and engineered in Victoria" Mr D aUa-Riva n oted.

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Urban design and clean technology Premier Ted Baillieu bighlighted Victoria's skills and expertise in urban design and clean technology while speaking at the Building Sustainable and Liveable Cities of the Fumre forum held in partnership with the Confederation of Indian Industry, the India Green Building Council and the Victorian Government in New Delhi.

He stated that with its wealth of knowledge and experience in urban design and related technologies, Victoria is wellplaced co assist India in meeting the cha.llenges of sustainable. urban development.

During the visit, Victoria's award-winning urban design business Li\B Architects announced that ir would be establishing its fuse of6ce in India.

The 'Victorian Connection' As part of a new Trade Engagement Program, the 'Victorian Connection' was launched as a new initiative to develop investment and trade oppor tunities in global markets. The program will help Victorian expatriates and people who have lived or sn1died in Vicmria and who now live and work overseas stay connected with each other and everything Victorian. Ir will support them in forming professional and personal

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networks d1at ca□ provide market intelligence and identify and develop new investment, ttade and joint venture opportunities between Victoria in their respective regions.

Members will be encouraged to become ambassadors for Victoria, helping to raise the State's pro61e and awareness of what it can offer in global markets.

Following the launch in India, die Middle East and North Africa, The Victorian Connection wiU be launched in other markers identified by the Victorian Government as priority areas.

The program will also be extended through The Victoria□ Connection Business Insight Series, an a111mal event in key .international markers, with one event per year held in up to ten countries and will position Victoria at d1e forefront of innovation and curring-edge knowledge d11·ough exclusive ftmctions for Victorian alumni with leading thinkers from industry and/or academia as speakers.

Films A Bollywood biopic on one of one of India's greatest sporting heroes will have key scenes shot in Melbourne, announced Premier of Victoria and Minister for the Arts Teel Baillieu, during the trade mission ro India. Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (R11n Milkha Rim) will teU the story of the legendary Indian runner Milkha Singh, known as

the 'Flying Sikh', who won 77 of the international footraces our of the 80 that he entered.

Milkha Singh first represented lndia at the 1956 Melbourne O lympics which introduced him to the world stage and launched his international running career.

Bhaag Mi/kha Bhaag will be directed by one of India's most celebrated filmmakers, Rakeysh Mehra, and will feature two of India's biggest film st'lrs - the multi- talented Farhaan Akhtar and style icon Sonam Kapoor.

The shoot in Melbourne will take between two and three weeks, and generate more than $1 million in local economic activity. ''As with other Indian films shot in Melbourne, Bhaag Milkha Bhaag will raise our profile in India and showcase Victoria as a great tourism destination," Mr Baillieu said. "Tourism Victoria will leverage the release of d1e movie through a marketing canipa.ign in India feanu:ing the key locations from the film."

Mr Baillieu said that as part of the Victorian Government's Trade Engagement Prog ram - India, screen industry ties were being strengdiened bet\veen Vicroria and India.

"We have committed $500,000 to deliver an lndian Film Festival in Melbourne in 2012, 2013 and 2014; we are establishing fellowships for yomig Victorian directors and producers to travel to India, and we will appoint

a weU.-k□own Indian Film Ambassador," ]\fr Baillieu said.

"We have signed a VictoriaIndia Co-production initiative which will see IO Victorians travel to India's FICCl Frames in Mumbai and support up ro three Vicrorian screen companies in joint ventures wid, Indian production entities," he added.

Mr Bail.lieu said Milkba Singh's story was an inspirational one, and its strong ties tO Melbourne were an excellent opportunity to expand Victoria's relationship wid1 India in the realm of the arts.

Also present at the announcement were die film's director Rakeysh Om Prakash Mehra, Vikram Malhotra, COO - Viacom18 Motion Pictures, and l\'1itu Bhowmick, Director of Mind Blowing Films, the Victorian line producer.

And a bit of cricket Mr Baillieu joined in an informal game of cricket with children on his tour, with cricket legends like former Indian captain r<apil Dev, Victorian cricket star Dean Jones and Cricket Victoria CEO Tony Dodemaicle also participating.

Afterwards he revealed, "In May this year, up to 20 Indian swdents wiJJ take part in an upcoming pilot program in Melbourne run by Cricket Victoria's ongoing Sports Business Program, where l am certain they will receive a warm welcome and gain valuable skills and experience".

The progran1 is an initiative where participants develop skills in a range of sports-related fields, including administration and ttaining, marketing and major events management.

Mr Baillieu also announced on the occasion d1ar the Victorian Govenm1enr will be working bard to secure die 2015 ICC World Cup final for the Melbourne Cricket Grmmd (MCG). He said that Melbourne is t he sporting and cultural capita.I o f t\usttalia and has been voted both the World's Most Liveable City and d1e Ultimate Sports City on numerous occasions.

The ICC World Cup is d1e fourth-largest international sporting event, with 14 nations participating and an estimated television audience of 953 million people.

MARCl-l 2012 15

COMMUNITYSCENE

Fun and frolic for ICT students ore than 25 Imperial Colleges of Trades (JCT) smdents puc their best fooc forward ac the Mr and Ms. Imperial College of Trades pageant on February 26 in Adelaide. The contest saw studencs hie che catwalk in western and traditional Indian cloching, impressing the judges with their talent Through che three-hour long contest, the judges and auilience were also entertained by dance performances in bhangra (Punjabi folk dance), gymnastics and by various colourful groups of dancers.

After an exciting afternoon of entertainment and the ilistribution of awards in a range of fun categories, Pw1eec Sharma and Utcamjit Kaur were crowned Mr. and Ms. Imperial College of Trades. Pushpinder Singh and Baljeet Kaur were awarded the Mr. Handsome and Ms. Gorgeous pri2es.

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The judging panel included Mark Cody, Executive Direccor, P rimary lnduscries Skills Council; Retd. Major General Vikram Madan, ex-Ptes.ident, Inilian Australian Association of Sou th Australia; Lt. Col. Recd. Bikkar Singh Brar, ex-CEO, Imperial College of Trades, among others. avtej Singh Bal (CEO of ICT) and Koma! Bal put the entire event together. 1t provided che young students wid1 an opportunity for some fun and frolic and d1ey en joyed every minute of it.

Imperial Colleges of Trades is distinguished by being the only College in South Allstralia that offers a Diploma of Horticulture co overseas sn1dents, and die only College in Auscralia diat delivers an Advanced Diploma of Horciculmre co overseas students.

Puneet Sharma, Uttamjit Kaur, Pushpinder Singh and BaljeetKaur

16 MARCM 2012

Vikram Madan, Navtej Bal, Mark Cody, Bikkar Brar

Mark Cody

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MARCI-I 2012 17

COMMUNITYSCENE

Alexyz charms cricket fans

Kirsten Alexander, M ayor of the City of Charles Sturt with celebrity Indian cartoonist Alexyz Fernandes

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elebrity Indian cartoonist Alexyz Fernandes treated cricket and arr fans from around South Australia 111st month, with his 'Sir Donald Bradman Crickeroons exhibition and fun shop', an event organi.scd by Club India Imernational SA Inc (CIISAI).

Alexyz Fernandes, a renowned Goan caricaturist, was on a holiday Down Under and took time to showcase his work in l cw Zealand and Australia. With a career spanning du:ee decades, Fernandes was brought by Club India International SA lnc. to Adelaide to present his collection of Sir Donald Bradman's caricatures to d1e community.

The l O year old Samson Fernand es welcomed d1e gathering

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before the President o f CIISAl, MaJ,,.'Well Taylor welcomed Chief Guest Kirsten Alexander, Mayor of the City of Charles Sturr and cartoonist AleJ,,.'j'Z Fernandes to d1e event.

Mr Fernandes thanked Club Lidia for arranging the function and spoke about his fascination for the legendary batsman Sir Donald Brad.man, upon. whom he has based some of his greatest works. Some of these are d isplayed in the Sir Donald Bradman Museum in Bowral, New Somh \Xlales.

"Cricket was originally d1e gan1e of gentlemen," said Fernandes, " and this aspect was personified b)1 Donald Bradman - in his game and in everyday life. His style was one that was not driven by the commercialism we witness today."

"It is a dream come true for me to be here, in Australia, the land Bradman called home," he added.

The Mayo r then addressed the community and welcomed Mr Fernandes to the City of Adelaide.

She was very happy to be invited,

and congratulated AJeJ,,.1 z on his creative work. " ln Charles Smrt, we take great pleasure in celebrating unique individuals, groups and organisations, people who bring our city alive wirh arr, music, dance and culture," d1e mayor said. " Like Club lndia, Charles Smrt strives to promote diversity of language and culmre, and shares d1e Club's belief in unity and diversity". l\'1s Alexander shared tliat Donald Bradrnan was indeed a fm ourite of hers as a young child, when she was learning how to play cricket.

"Donald Bradman's integrity as a cricketer is inspirational.

What amazes me is tbar through :rv1r Fernandes' work, a. common fascination for an Australian cricketer has crossed the boundaries of time, distance and culture." Ms Ale.xander said.

The cartoonist also drew a caricature of the Mayor and presented die same to her later du.ring the evening.

As could be expected, diere was 7

a .large Indian community turn om, to welcome the artist and celebrate bis achievements.

Mr Fernandes was keen to teach children how to draw. He drew from a model who had volunteered and based his funshop activity o, a step-by-step guide for children to follow. i\fr Fernandes encouraged die children to use their own creativity as they drew tbe model. There were funky doodles and quirky

drawings, with some children exploring art in a new light. The fun-shop prize went to 10-year old Marc Jose who used bold lines, with a kangaroo body - an original piece of arrwork!

The fun-shop was very successful. Both children and parents relaxed w hile drawing sketches and had a bit of oldfashioned fun .

Sasha. Sequeira proposed the vote of thanks.

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INDOPHILE

Power to the people!

There's a reason why India is hailed as the world's greatest democracy, which is apparent in every aspect of the daily lives ofits citizens

ndia's lively political scene has always appealed co my inner journalise. Say what you warn about Indian politics - the Indian people do not cake chcir democratic privileges for granted. L1 fucr, I often wonder if India's bureaucracy, regardless of its (many) fu.ulrs, constitutes a more democratic system than chat of many western nations.

Lee's not forget that democracy might be undermined, but is not abrogated by corruption; democracy is fundamentally 'the rule of the people' in all its manifestations, beautiful and ugly. The Indian people do, co a large degree, dictate the direction of their nation.

This makes for a clear contrast with Auscra.lia, where political apathy has become a national epidemic. The huge crowds drawn in by anti-corruption activist Anna Hazare's campaign are testan1ent co the Indian populace's political engagement. Even the media gets on board - all of this is a far cry from many Western democracies where a moral obligation would fail to garner such widespread support.

Take the American invasion oflraq; while many cook co the streets, it wasn't enough co sway governments who had che mainsueam media wrapped around their fingers. In many coun cries celebrities and activists, all potential spokespeople, were nowhere co be seen.

It's yet co be seen if people power can (or will ever) a.ire India ofir.s corruption problem, bur it certainly feds like a fight which the people wane. After all, modem India was founded on a public movement of civil disobedience and protest.

The very face of social activism is co be seen on every cen rupees I handle, regardless of how grubby the note is. Perhaps we will have co wait until the newer, more globally aware and more financially mobile generation comes of age until we see a significant cl1ange in [ndia's policies; it has always ba.ffied me that India's very yow1g population (according co some estimates, up co 50% are under 25 years of age), are ruled by an ancient group of elir.e survivors.

One place where the power definitely isn't, however, is in Chennai's elecuicity grid. As the subcontinent hears up, the

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regular power cuts, known as 'loadshedding', become ever more frequent. I don't have the pathological hatred of loadshedding that most Indians possess - I acrually find the unscheduled silence that graces the neighbourhood to be a rather calming experience. The frusuation felt by many Indians is understandable though, because the lack of elecrricity is indicative of a much deeper problem.As one Chennaiker so eloquently stated; "Why should we go without electricity every time Jayalalithaa rolls over? There's no shortage of power lines lying around the shoddily constructed footpaths!" .

This anger is palpable in many conversations. The answer, perhaps, is co be fow1d in che number of Indians who talk but don't act. In ocher words, how many people complain abom corruption but still pay bribes to evade uaffic fines?

If corruption is as rampant as we a.re led to believe, and the anticorruption movemenc enjoys as much support as we are cold, then chere muse be some overlap.

Conversely, there is somedung to be said for the corrupt justice I recently saw meted out co a neighbourhood chief. My neighbour caught the pilferer and tightened a cha.in around his neck. I cl1ought he was going to lynch him, but cl1e cl1ain was used to restrain while an uncle threw punches and yelled obscenities.

When police arrived cl1ey pulled him away from the thief, and rhen the policeman stepped forward and cook his turn at beating up cl1e criminal while the house owner watched on. Wrong, I agree - bur I wonder if many Indian victims of crime wou ld be satisfied with a more we.seem ized 'rehabilitation' process for criminals? I doubt it - so whether it's right or wrong, maybe Indian democracy really is more representative of the people's will than we assume.

Ac the end of the day, the idea of 'India' always seems to prevail - tl1e idea clia.t everyone gees a say, chat the nation is somdiow, if not obviously, cohesive, and that cl1e Indian people are free. In cl1e battle of the rising superpowers, it's easy co compare India's progress with that of China. "Look at how well they're progressing" I hear many Indians say. Suggest to cl1ese people however that they should be li mited to having one child, chat cl1ey should be highly taxed (or taxed at all, in many cases!), or char chey should be subject to rigorous

Power lines (below) and politics (above) are two facts of life in modem India

media control and a cry of protest arises. That cry is exactly why India can't be China - and nor should it cry co be.

A common stereotype oflndia.ns is that they calk too much - and as with most stereotypes, cl1ere is an demen t of m.1 th there. But chis is what makes India great - let's cackle corruption, but lee's not forget that many counuies gm to where they are by shutting people up. I hope the Indian people never stop talking, because without dialogue, what else could hold l .2 billion Indians cogetl1er? I love that in India I can express my views in a public forum and protest ifl want, with cl1e distinct hope that I might just change something. I can even type whatever I like on the internet, and watch whatever I want on cl1e TV news. Except for when there's loadshedding, of course.

Modern-day activist Anna Hazare spearheaded the fight against corruption

rJarat ► 54"'

Gandhi's benevolent face adorns the bank notes

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MARCl-l 2012 19

COMMUNITYSCENE

Kumbabishekam ceremony draws

hundreds of worshi de.laide may be known as the city of cbmches, but it wirnessed a different kind of spirimal spectacle in the fust week of February, when the city's sky reverberated to vedic chants at the Ganesha Temple's k.11mhahisbeka111 ceremony.

K11mbahishek.a111, according to Hindu religious edicts, is a ceremony of consecration to be performed soon after scames are installed in temples to infuse divine power and make them idols worthy of worship. This ceremony is to be repeated every twelve years to re-inject fresh vibes into those idols after carrying om at1)' necessary repairs and renovation required to die temple's physical structures.

This practice is generally prevalent in South India, particularly Tainil adu. However, nowadays th.is depends on the. depm of die coffers of a particular temple, and die enthusiasm of its e..'(ecurive.s.

Du.ring me renovation work d,e idols are taken off dieir pedest:.'11s and temporarily housed in a different location, and as such are believed to have somewhat lesser divine power. The k11mhahishekmn ceremony mat beings d1em back d1cir original prowess, involves elaborate rituals including re.installation of me idols on their original pedestals after placing valuable metals such as gold and silver pieces and performing havans in ho1T1t1 k1111d (specially constructed three-tiered brick structures to hold the fue) for four days. The ceremony concludes with pouring of 'holy' water kept in special pots near die havans over d,e k111t1has (inverted conical metal or masonry structures) atop megopura1JJ (the pyramidical spire over the shrine) of me principal a11d oilier deities.

The five-day ceremony at Adelaide was conducted in aL1the.nric style as codified in the Hindu agrima sastro. Carton-loads of material required for several havcms and related rin.1als were brought from] ndia and had co pass mrough srcict quarai1rine.

Two str1pr1this (temple artisans) from the same. group that built die temple twelve years ago were brought in again to carry out many works of renovation. They worked seven days a week for two mond, s co complete me job in rime for the ceremony. A dozen temple priests - local, interstate and

ers

A

20 MARCM 2012

from overseas arrived co perform the sastric cimals. Hundreds of devotees witnessed the preliminary day rituals conducted in specially erected marquees. On me final day over a thousand people crammed into the temple and spilled omo die. streets to have a darshan of me k11111hahisbekr1111 and then pa1·take of the prasad.

According to traditional beliefs, witnessing one such ceremony in a lifetime brings peace at1d harmony, and me 1\delaide Hindu community feels truly blessed to have mis opporruni tr, The Ganesba Temple is at 3 / llba1!Y Cres, Oak/ands Park, SA 5046.

Ph: 08 8298 1278

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INDIAN NEWS Nor tl1ern Sumatra, while it was Santiago Del Estero in Argentina," he added. The intensity of Northern Sumau-a quake and Argentina quake was 5.l and 6 on the Richter scale, respectively.

SpiceJet foresees tough times

NSW Premier Barry O'Farre/1 presents Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar with honorary life membership of the Sydney Cricket Ground - the first overseas player to receive much an honour.

Panic as 4.9 tremor shakes Delhi, adjoining areas A 4.9-magnitude tremor shook rhe Indian capital and its adjoining areas recently, startling people in offices and homes as the ground shook and windowpanes rattled.

The guake, centred near Bahadurgarh town close to the Haryana-Delhi border, did not lead to any casualties.

The epicentre was just .33 km from New Delhi, the India Meteorological Department (lMD ) said.

"The Delhi and National Capital Region (NCR) felt slight intensity tremors, which measured 4.9 on the Richter Scale.

The epicentre was in the Haryana and Delhi reg ion," R.S Dattatryam, d irecror, Seismology Division, India Meteorological Department (IMD ) said, when contacted.

According to the llvID, the tremor was felt at 1.11 p.m.

As the ground swayed, many residents and office-goers in D elhi, Gurgaon and Noida ran out of their btuldings into the open.

Sources in Rohtak said the boundary wall of a school in Mayna village of Rohtak district collapsed. The district authorities, however, could not confirm the incident.

Some people working and Living in highrise buildings in Gmgaon, which has the offices of several MN Cs and leading Indian

companies located there, were asked co vacate the buildings as the tremors were felt for over IO seconds.

"Sitting in an office on the 12th floor in Nehru Place, I felt it very strongly Like somebody shaking my chair. There was a general air o f panic. Luckily tl1ere was no repeat tremor," Mahj Singh, a MNC em p loyer said. " I was in bed recovering from surgery when I was shaken awake by the guake. I tried to rush outside, limping," Ramkant M.ahant from east Delhi said.

"Ail the small objects on tables started shaking, I felt it for over five seconds, followed by a rumbling noise," said Rumu Banerjee of Chittaranjan Park in south Delhi.

Throughout the city, people called up relatives and friends, and asked after their well-being.

The IMD official asked tl1e public not ro panic as it was a slight intensity tremor.

"It is a slight intensity tremor, which was felt in the Delhi and I CR areas. No infrastrucmraJ damage is exp ected from the tremor of such low magnitude. At most, there may be some plaster falling off in weak buildings," Dattacryam said.

"The possibility of aftershocks are very minimal for such a low intensity guake," be added.

However, the guake did not seem to have affected the concentration of students appearing for their board exams. Many, however, complained they 'Nere not given extra time to finish their papers disrupted by the 10-second tremor. "\Ve did not have the rime to react as the main concern was finishing the Physics paper which was lengthy. W/e were left wondering what was the noise, and realised it was a guake," said Mrinalini Mahajan who was writing her Physics paper in St 1vlary's School in Dwarka area.

Smridhi Gupta was upset over not being allowed extra-rime to revise her ans,vers. " \'(/e all were taken aback with the tremor.

The w indowpanes of the classroom were rattling. Though d1e tremor lasted only for ten second s, it took us almost ten minutes ro get back to writing. I wish we were given extra time," Gupta said.

Another student who appeared for her board exam in Sh ri Ram School in Gurgao□ said: "There was a bit of panic but we were done with the paper."

Tremors were also felt in Indonesia and Argentina.

"They were two separate guakes d1ac shook fodonesia and Argentina at 12.25 p.m. and U 6 p.m., respectively. They are not Linked," seated D atcatryam.

"The epicen tre in Indonesia was

Budget carrier SpiceJet's chief e.xecurive Neil ]\fills feels the aviation sector, marred by high fuel and interest cost in the coming fiscal, will continue co face "tough operating conditions". "l think the tough conditions wiU continue for a while in the coming fiscal.

Our fuCLLres are pegged with oil prices and they are very high right now," .Mills said in an interview.

"There are some decisions on new policy Like direct import o f fuel and foreign direct investment. W/e are evaluating them and will do what is best for us."

According ro Mills, tl1e low cosr carrier (LCC) was in touch with fuel suppliers for logistical support to allow airlines to directly import jet fuel. "\Ve are evaluating che impact of tl1e decision whenever it comes. We are in touch with them (fuel suppliers), but I cannot comment on how much savings would emerge out of this. But it will be substantial.." l-,,[ills' views come as tl1e government had on Feb 22 n oti.fied direct import of jet fuel and called upon interested car riers ro apply for licences.

This came after t he Feb 7 decision by a group of ministers (GoM) headed by Finance Minister Pranab i\fokherjee to roll out a plan to help domestic carriers, allowing them to directly import aviation fuel.

The move will enable airlines to cue operating costs by about 10- 15 percent, saving on sales tax, which ranges between three percent and 35 percent and is levied by state governments.

Jet fuel now constitutes about 50 percent of the coral operating cost of airlines in India. D omestic airlines are estimated to have lose around Rs.3,000 crore in di e first six montl1s of chis fi scal.

On the issue of foreign capital by foreign airlines in domestic passenger carriers, Mills said the airline was not looking for a foreign parmer but was evaluating the proposal. :Mills' confidence is eviden t as the airline's promoter Kalanidhi Maran decided March 2 co infuse Rs. l 00 crore into tbe carrier in lieu o f live percent eguity or additional 42.9 m.illion shares.

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• ''This decision shows the confidence of the promoters in the company and its viability. The board has taken this decision and will aUot 42.9 m illion preferential shares to the promoters," NW1s said.

"This is the second time in eight months when the promoters have infused equity.

Last September, we received Rs.130 crore and five percent of the equity shares were allotted co the promorers."

Fresh funds should come as a relief co the airline, as the whole sector is facing tough operating conditions like high interest and fuel costs.

"This (fund) will go into the normal working capital and for general growth. Our debts are affordable, we are paying che oil companies, salaries and we are not behind any schedule. We will get through these tough times," l\tills said.

The budget carrier had Feb 6 reported a net loss of Rs.39.26 crore for the quarter ended Dec 31 from a net profit of Rs.94.44 crore in the like period of 2010-11.

The company's auditors in a review report said that accumulated losses have eroded the nee worth of the company.

"As of Dec, 31, 2011, the company's accumulated losses of Rs.107,781 .3 lakh has substantially eroded the net worth of dJe company, indicating the existence of a material uncertainty that may cast doubts about the company's ability to continue as a going concern," die auditors said.

Now, cabbies, maids can learn while they earn A couple of rears down d1e line, Mumbai residents may be deali.ug with cabbies and auto-drivers who are fuil- Aedged graduates.

Thanks to an open universi1:y, deprived sections of che city's huge workforce will get a chance co enhance their skills.

The ashik-based Yeshwantrao Chavan Maharashtra Open University (YCMOU) has designed special shore-term and longterm courses for working classes like cab and auto drivers, private drivers and even maids to enable them to compete better in dJe job and money markets.

The special preparatory and degree courses shali be inaugurated Tuesday in Mumbai's AU India Institute of Local Self Government at Andheri by eminent Bollrwood actor Kader Khan, according to a YCMOU official.

"Given our social objectives, ilie courses shall be extremely simple but equip ilie 'students' to handle them without disturbing their crucial work schedules as most are die sole bread-winners of their fa1nilies," said Shrinivas Belsare, YCMOU head of corporate communications.

There are an esti.niated 400,000 cabbies in the city. According to Belsare, around 200,000 cabbies from MWJ1bai, besides a poten rial 1.5 million elsewhere in Maharashtra, are e.xpected to benefit from the new course, enrolment for whidi starts in June 2012.

YCMOU's format for the experimental coutse would be unique, using CDs, FM radio programmes and a few books to enable rhe cabbies to learn while on the go - driving.

It is expected to similarly help housemaids, who number around 800,000 in die city.

Besides, me courses would not burn a bole in die pockets of die 'students', considering they are at the bottom rw1g

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of die people contributing to the national economy, Belsare said.

"The preparatory course wiJJ cost Rs.600, with a 50 percent discount for d1e target category of cabbies and it is equivalent of HSC. This will be followed by a diploma course, advanced diploma and a degree, each costing Rs.1,500, and recognized everywhere," Belsare explained.

"Accordingly, if a person completes one year, that is, t\vo modules, be gets a diploma, after two years an advanced diploma and a full- Aedged, recognised degree after completing the full diree-year course. It means a win-win simation for all, even those who drop out after a year or two," he added.

The new courses are expected ro be a boon for the next generation of cabbies as the state government plans to soon make HSC-level education compulsory before issuing new permits for auros and taxis.

Kader Khan, who himself played a cabby in several movies like Afl Ab Laut Chaim and Naseeb, was impressed wid1 YCMOU's new course and readily agreed to inaugurate it, Belsare said.

A graduate, the 65-year-o ld Khan, after taking a break from his acti ng-writing career, is now engrossed in designing a new syUabus from nursery to post-graduation in Islamic studies for the benefit of studencs in thousands of 'madrassas' in India.

Given the large, semi-literate migrant population in i\fombai, YCMOU will offer its new course in Hindi, Marathi and English for the cabbies, wid1 the approval of d1e powerful Bombay Taximen's Union. lts existing BA degree course in Urdu have got over 2,000 students on dJe rolls and proved beneficial to migrants, mostly school dropouts, coming here in search of employment opporrLu:i.ities.

YCM:OU has arow1d 400,000 students on its rolls in the state, including 50 percent women, who would odiet\vise have had no opportunity to educate themselves, he said.

The course modules are comprehensive and wide- ranging including soft skills, road safery, tourism, hea.ld1, first aid, civic discipline, transport rules, insurance, traffic scenario, networking with courier companies and basic banking.

"This will enable diem to ger a proper perspective of life and help them consider od1er lucrative professional options rad1er than spending their lives d riving cabs," Belsare pointed out.

The YCi\ifOll course is billed as the first of its kind among the 14 open universities around the coLmtry which have been silently spun·ing literacy levels among the most unfortunate sections of Indian society.

Playing with a splash of safety this Holi .Amid the riot of powdered h ues and watery splashes that Holi brings, experts say people shm1ld not ignore safety issues as toxic chemical colours could bring on severe skin infections, eye injuries and od1er problems.

The festival of colours was celebrated on March 8 mis year.

"The use of synd1etic colours during Holi can cause severe irritation, dermatitis, burning, redness and also in some cases blister formation. It can also lead ro irreversible pigmentation," said Amit Bangia, consultant dermatologist at the Asian Institute of Medical Sciences.

"Besides, many water colours have an

Oscar winning director Kathryn Bigelow, on the sets during the filming of her upcoming film about Osama bin Laden in Chandigarh, India, March 2, 2012.

Right-winged Hindu nationalist group Vishwa Hindu Parishad have protested against the hoisting of Pakistani flags during the filming. Bigelow and cast are in India shooting at various locations over the next few weeks, local media reports. alkaline base capable of causing temporary blindness and severe injuries. Colours in the form of pastes sometinies have toxic compounds mixed in a base of engine oil or od1et inferior quality oil," Bangia added.

Chemical colours have been in vogue for a long time, and die cost-effectiveness and easy availability make them more p referred than natural colours, say experts. But often people are not aware of their narrnful effects.

Bur o ne can prepare organic colours at home.

"Turmeric can be L1secl for reUow colour.

He1111a can act as a green colour and dried rose petals can be substin1ted for red," Bangia said.

The dangers lie not just in colours.

Throwing water-filled balloons can also cause injury if targeted at the eyes or ears.

"The baUoons used by children dlLring Holi are mosr dangerous and can cause blum eye injury. An injury can lead to the loss of vision or loss of rhe eye. These are all eye emergencies and should be taken care of as eady as possible," said r ikhil Sed1, consultant optbalmologist at the Asian Institute of Medical Sciences.

"Eyes are extremely susceptible during Holi because of their strategic place in die body and also because the use of harmful chemicals is known to cause eye irritation," added Seth.

While the best precaution remained use of namrnl colours, people were also advised to reduce rheir hours of playing Holi or

take breaks when playing it at a stretch.

"If it is played for six to seven hours at a stretdi, he/ she is vulnerable to acquiring irritants such as bums, b listers or contract allergy, mild discolouration (which is reversible) and acne. lr's best advised to take a break in between," Bangia said.

Another set of precautions was ro use a protective barrier between skin and colour. A layer of sun screen could help prevent direct contact of chemicals \Vid1 the skin. After playing with colours, use of lukewarm water to dean your body was recommended.

"People must realise that the colours have been added to Holi to make d1e festival more joyous and enjoyable and not to cause inconvenience to others. So, the ne.xt ti.rne you play wid1 colours, use good quality or natw:al colours and p lay according to the conve1:i.ience of others," suggested Seth.

Nordi Delhi resident Mori Lal Gan ju, 45, said be has always played the festival with natural colours. But with synthetic colours flooding d1e markets, it is best to make the colours at home.

"These days, Holi colours are sold loosely on the roadside by small traders who often do not know the source. Sometimes, the coloms come io boxes that specifically say 'For industrial use only'," Lal said.

"We should make sm:e our family celebrates d1e festival with organic colours.

Lee us nor allow bard colours to spoil d1e charm of gujiyas and music," Lal quipped.

IANS

MARCI-I 2012 23

DIASPORA

Modi's GiUiarat

Madi's 6uiara,

Protesters at a rally in front of the Gandhi statue in Union Square, New York on March 3 remember the victims of the 2002 anti-Muslim Gujarat riots

Smithsonian to chronicle the story of Indian Americans The Smithsonian lnstitution, the world's largest musemn and research complex, is purring together an exhib ition chronicling the story of immigrams from India and their descendants in America.

"HomeSpun: Smithsonian Indian American Heritage P roject", the first Smithsonian initiative focused on the Indian American experience, will convey the history, contributions and chaUenges of nearly three million lndian Americaus and signal their place in America.

The initial goal is to raise $2 million dollars for the project so that the exhibition can open this year and travel within tl1e US for three years.

The Smitl1sonian is looking for an additional endowment of at lease $1 million to generate interest needed to continue Smitlisonian projects focusing on Indian Americans in perpetuity.

Ac a presentation briefing on the project, tlie Indian ambassador N irupama Rao highlighted the 'people centric' dimension of tl1e India-US parmership and how it has, over the years, particularly strengthened the 'rnunially beneficial' character of cooperation between India and the US. "India takes pride in achievements o f the tliree million strong India-origin corumunicy in the United States", she said.

Rao described "HomeSpun" as a celebration of the accomplishments and success of the I ndian-origin com1mmity in the US and expressed confidence that it would be an effective public demonstration of tl1e potential and capabilities of Indian Americans in contributing to the American sociery and economy and also to the IndiaUS parmership.

Curated by D r. Pawan Dhingra, HomeSpun sets out to answer questions like how did this community come to such prominence yet in other respects rernains

24 MARCI-I 2012

a community in formation, how does this story reveal America's unique history of immigration and how can learning about fodian Americans inform tl1e experiences of other groups and d1e nati.o n (and India) overall.

HomeSpun will consist of exhibits, public programmes, a middle school curriculum, and a cutting-edge website. As such it wiU establish a permanent presence - tl1rough research, collections, and public programmes - within the Smitl1sonian complex.

1-Iom eSpun also will be visible in key cities as the exhibition travels the country and public programmes are held in various venues in cooperadon with local communities.

Obama campaign reaches out to Indian Americans Presiden t Barack Obama, whose administration has by far the largest number of Indian-A mericans, has turned to three prominent members of this growing and inAuential community to help his re-election campaign reach out to some tl1 ree million fodian-origin voters.

The tliree, actor Kalpen Modi (aka Kal Penn), California's first female Attorney General, Kaniala Harris and Sai I yer, who served as a White House intern in 2001, figure among 35 srnte, local and community leaders named as national co-chairs, or " ambassadors" for the president, who will play a high-profile role in defending his record and mobilising voters for [ ovember.

"The president's national co-chairs will be tremendous assets on the ground as we build the biggest grassroots campaign in history," Obama's canipaign manager, J im Messina said in a statem ent.

"They each share the president's vision for a funtte where every American can bave a fair shot at success, where hard work pays off and responsibility is rewarded," Messina said.

The list includes current and former Democratic members of Congress, governors and mayors, as well as business and Jabor leaders, members o f clergy and a few local campaign organizers, a nod to the value Obama places on his grassroots volunteers.

Kaniala Harris, daughter of a Tanul mother and a Jamaican American father and Sai Iyer, a student at the Virginia Commonwealth Universiry and OFA (Obama For America) volun teer leader from Virginia will play key roles with former White House chiefs of staff Bill Daley and Rahm Emanuel.

Actor Kalpen Modi, who served as \'Vhite House Associate Director for me Office of Public Engagem ent, is expected co .lead outreach co younger voters, while actress Eva Longoria will spearhead efforts to reach women and Hispanics.

Although some Indian Americans like Obama's information technology chief, Aneesh Chopra, his tech guru Vivek Kundra, who streamlin ed tl1e federal government's massive IT infrastructure and Obama's export czar, Suresh Kumar have left in recent days, his administration stiU has more people of Indian origin than ever before.

Among them US.AID administrator Rajiv Shah, by far rbe highes t ranking IndianAmerican in any presidential administration, Obama appointee P reer Bharara, US attorney for New York, niclrnam ed tl1e ·'sheriff of Wall Street, who recendy made it to d1e cover of d1e Time magazine and Preeta D. Bansal, who serves on an ad, isory council promoting improvemems in government procedures.

7

Indian-origin British hotelier sued by parents Parents of a 60-year-old Indian-origin hotelier, repor tedly one o f Britain's wealthiest men, are suein g him for 100

million pound s (armmd $157 million), claiming their son rook tl1e family business for himself.

Jasminder Singh, chairman of d1e Radisson Edwardian Hotels, is accused of re nouncing the Sikh tradition of sharing family wealth and barring his parents from their multi-million pound b L1siness, die Dai!J E:xpress reported.

His 84-yea r-old father, Bal Mohinder Singh, stands to take a third of the family form ne if he wins the high court battle against his son.

The fauuly fortune is reportedly worth an estimated 4 15 million pounds.

In a statement to the court in London, Bal Mohinder Singh said he and his wife Satwant were "deeply ashamed that Jasmind er should publicly renounce his culmral. heritage".

The system of joint family own ership of all assets is based on religious reaching and widely practiced by Sikh and H indu communities around the wodd, he said.

"For Jasminder co deny that and claim all the credit and ownership for himself wiU be shocking to wide sections of those communities. That is why his mod1er and I are so ashamed," he said.

"The hotelier's name was on the family's assets purely because he was a chartered accountan t and the Singhs' representative," the court heard.

Singh also accused his son of trying to force h is parents om of the 10-rnillionpound house they share near Ascot racecourse in Berkshire.

Jasminder Singh denies ever having been told by his parents they were a " joint Hindu family" and that property acquired by any of tl1em was "joint family property''.

He also denied having a particularly re ligious upbringing.

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MARCI-I 2012 25

SPORT

On your marks...

Nosh Mistry continues his exploits at the velodrome

ndian Australian cycling ace Nosh "Mistry has won a bronze medal at tbe2012 Cycling Australia Masters National Championships.

T he p restigious annual event was held at the Dunc Gray Velod rome in Banksrown recencly.

Representing the St George Cycling Club in cl1e Masters 2 age category (35-39 yrs), Jvlistry competed in the 3000m Individual Pursuit as weUas 10 km Scratch Race, winning bronze for the former.

The CA Nationals are cl1e highlight of cl1e Masters racing calendar in Australia and will be followed up by Masters World Champio nships at Manchester in October. " l t feels good to have reached a level where I am able to compete with peers of very high calibre in a very intensive sport", Mistry cold Indian Llllk. " It also feels good to be able to set an aioi and achieve

I

"Of course, I have gone faster before, however given the conditions, it was my best effort on d1at day," he added. "You !earn from every race you ride and adjust certain things in training and testing which hopefully translate into bener and better times. In a sense you are always racing against yourself, rrying to go better than the last time".

According to i\llistry, die 3000m pmsuit, which takes place with 2 ciders on opposite ends of cl1e track, "looks decepcively simple, in diat aU it seems like is you get on a bike and pedal as hard as you can for the specified disrance".

However, cl1e training, die preparation, me diet, the men tal aspects, me actual race, die lap tim ing splits, die aerodyn amics, cl1e body positioning, die bicycle, the attention co detail - all need to be dealt wid1. I t tests me contestant's mental and physical endurance.

Usually cl1e results go ro me people who have put in me re9uired lime to address aU me criteria, he stated.

In cootrast, the scratch or mass start race involves 24 people, who ride at me one tin1e, widi d1e fastest person over me line winning.

These races are a bit of a lottery as it is not n ecessary that the strongest rider wins, observed Mistry who finished overall fourth

26 MARCI-I 2012

in the category. Positioning in the race, tactics and cl1e final sprint determine die winner. Th.is is not a timed event eirner. However the average speed over the 10 km was about 55 kmp h, so it was still a 9uick race, he noted.

The professional cyclist has a grueling training schedule, d ocking an average of 60-80 km daily. Typically his training year is broken down inco specific phases of endurance, strength and speed b uilding.

Li the endurance phase his daily weekday sessio ns generaUy include 2 - 2.5 hours of riding, while weekend races cover approximately 150 km, be indicated.

The strengrh phase involves a similar session o n hilly terrains to b uild up stamina. FinaUy, me speed phase, which is normally six weeks prior to an event focuses on target racing at a velod rome. l\1.istry's competition year is split into A, B and C category races with A of course being the most importan t races where he strives to be at his peak.

TI1anks to a \veU-cootdinated schedule from Cydiog I SW and Cycling .Australia, this is possible.

And o f course alJ this needs to fir arow1d work and family comm.itmenrs and very .soon it become an exercise in time management, he quipped. Misery's wife and daughter are not only very supportive o f his rigorous sd 1edule but also accompany him to mosc interstate and overseas events, enjoying a working holiday in cl1e process. i\s weU die Sc George Club, of which he has been a member since his arrival i.u Australia over a decade ago, has been very supportive.

The club has been a great source of inspiratio n, particularly several members who are curreoc and past world and Olympic champions, he acknowledged.

"Their candor and willingness to share what rney know and a genuine arcitude to help is not something you get access co everyday" he revealed. "This has helped me learn a lot and apply it to my racing and training. Even cl10ugh I live far from the d ub, l am still an active member".

Nosh participates in around 75 races annnalJy, his flagship events being individual pursuit and the road time trial. These even ts, he explained, re9uire a similar physiology and trai ning regin1en and are classed as end urance events. This includes weekly races at clie club, competing against Olymp ics level riders as well as

state and nacional championships.

The avid cyclist's rrysr with the sport goes back cl1ree decades when Nosh got his fust bike from his uncle as a preschooler. "He sti ll follows my career closely, offering pointers. Since then, 1 have been attracted to high tech bicycles," l'vlistry confessed.

As an adolescent he took up competitive cycling, winning his first national medal in India. l ronicaUy, th.is was five weeks after a bad training accident in volving a learner driver, he remembers.

Having dabbled in a n umber of sports, cycling, Nosh discovered, was a perfect fit. Swimming and long distance running followed and osh went o n tO win st.ate championships in both. He elms took up cl1e triathlon and was soon named the national champion.

Th.is led to a job "~ch the Indian Railways, representing mem in numerous national events, while pursuing his }.,[BA. "It was good to be paid to do a sport I loved and also continue my studies," he admitted.

1n that sense it was both a passion and profession for a while.

His only regret about competitive cycling back home, .is the total lack of calendar management and information coordination. "ln l.ndia, 1 wouldn't know when state or national events are until a fortnight before die rnce. So there was no cha.nee tO be at your peak. This u.nfornmately continues to cl1is day, p reventing Indian competitors to perform their best at global levels", he lameoced.

However, when you love doing something, it is nor very hard to keep yourself going. When it brings results, which are recognised at a high level like the nationals, that is a bonus, he in dicated.

On a philosophical level though, it is just cl1e simplicity of cl1e activiry of cycling and being com pletely absorbed in me moment mat keeps him going.

TI1is motto gives Nosh a complete sense of pmpose and involvement wim life in general.

So what drives clie keen sportsman to sustain the momentum?

Pursuing any activity ro me highest levels reguires tremendous phrsicaJ and mental stamina. There are days when cl1ings will seem harder, however as with anyming, persistence is me key. If you have discovered you have a talent for somecl-1ing, never ever, ever give up, he emphasised.

Mistry is alread y setting his sight.~ on me next event.

UBARU .L 4 THEDRIVER

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g.au

C)

Nosh Mistry takes the bronze in the 3000m Individual Pursuit event in the 2012 Cycling Australia Masters National Championships. Adam Simonelli wins gold and Rob Carlisle, silver.

Af ter " two ea.sy weeks", he hopes to get back in to the endurancetraining phase and build up d1e volume of training and aim for a better outcome next time be competes in d1e same event. An action packed sporting calendar no rwithstanding, l\1.is try also juggles a full time career in event photography.

Meanwhile, if his performance t.'lxgers are on track, a shot at \\7oi:ld Masters in Manchester could weU be in the offing.

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INDIA D IARV

BY

PRAKASH SUBBARAO he majestic Himalayas have always attracted me with its range of snow-clad peaks, deep gorges, green valleys, and the fast and furious rivers carving om their course over varied terrain since d10usands of years. l have travelled to both, the lndian and Nepal side of the Himalayas by mocorbike and car in the past, so I yielded easily to my brod1er's invitation to join him and Vandana on a trek to the Markha Valley.

Anita worked out all my logistics, and Apoorva volunteered to take care of herself, Casper and our home.

Soon I was watching the KuJlu valley zooming up quickly as we began our descent in the turbo prop p lane. \Ve went on an acclimatization trek to d1e Solang Valley, to get our legs and ltmgs into shape for the change in altitude. The climb was steep and we had a few hairraising moments crossing a raging stream over a log of wood which served as a foot-bridge.

We crnssed Rohtang by road and faced a big setback at the base

was dry with sparse vegetation in the valleys and highly prone to landslides and rockfalls. The days were hot and the n ights, windy and cold. We followed the trail and camped at Rum bak, the base camp of GandaLa, Shingo base camp, Skyu, Sara, Ma.rkha, Thochuntse, N imaling and Chukmaro. On an average we trekked for about 4-5 hours eacl, day, and some clays were unbearably hot as the canyons turned in to heat radiators at noon. \'>,'e climbed rwo mountain passes at GanclaLa (5100 mts) and GongmaruLa (5300 mes).

Fortunately, acclimatization happened without any dramas.

"See that shirr hanging from the branch over there?" asked our knowledgeable guide, Gyan pointing. "It was from the photographer who was shooting here when the Aoods swept him away last year." We quickly moved to higher grounds!

I felt claustrophobic ia the sleeping bag and on some nights, 1 crept out of the tent to gaze at the sky with a million stars till the cold winds forced me back to the relative comfort of the tent.

I came across mountain goats walking fearlessly and nimbly over steep ledges where even the thought of being that high made me feel faint. I came face-to- face with a chameleon who let me

In the heart Trekking through these majestic mountains is an intensely fulfilling experience for the soul and senses

camp as it snowed heavily in d1e night, and the way to Chandrataal became Lrnpassable. So we moved to plan B, and drove to Leh by road, a dis tance of approximately 300 kms tluough treacherous mountain roads, crossing two passes at BaralachaLa and TanglangLa, which is the second highest motorable pass at 17,600 ft. We camped at Tsokar (4400 mts); sn owfall followed us here, and was the cause of a photographer's nightmare d1ar of a b leak, whitewashed landscape.

A few quick steps and fast movements caused m e breatbjng cJj fficuh:y, as l had not yet acclimatized to d1e change. It was a strange feeling ro breathe, bur not ger the 02. \Xie finally reached Le h and started off on the i\farkha valley trek from Z ingchen. \'(/e continuously followed riverbanks and climbed hills in tl1e high arid mo umai.ns of th e Himalayas. The land scape

28 MARCI-I 2012

crawl within a foot to catch a nice portrait! Ocher wildlife included the Himalayan fox, wild ass, marmot, kin g vulture and many colourful butterflies.

There were maay spectacular moments each day, such as htmdreds of sheep trying to cross a rickety foot-bridge in the evening light at N imaling. The last day of the trek came quite quickly, and we left the mmmrains with heavy hearts.

The next day we drove to KhardungLa pass (18,380 ft) \vhich is the highest mmorable road in the world. lt was a strange feeling, and soon a slow snowfall began, forcing us jucloors for lemon tea at the h ighest cafe in the world.

I have returned tired and boneweary, bm with many cherished memories from the most magical mounrains in d1e world. And 1 will be b ack!

TRADITIONS

Holi Commu hile Australia 1s now preparing for the onset of wtnter, in lnrua it is spring. In the north at lease, the weather is currently pleasant, with tl1e chili of the lase three montl1s gradually recerung. i aturc adorns herself with brightly coloured flora, and the humans unabashedly imitate: it is Holi, the spring festival of colours.

In the most popular form of celebration of this nortl1ern Inruan festival, revelers smear coloured powder on each other's faces, or throw them at each ocher in gay abandon. There's plenty of laughs and loud merriment; and of course, food and drink abound, as in aJJ Hindu festivities.

Often the festivities get bo isterous, such as when people bring out water pistols, buckets of coloured \Vacer, or clunk each ocher in the pool.

Distinctions of class, caste, colour and creed are aJJ russolved as participant~ indulge in goodhumoured play.

There are many legends and mytl1s behind the tradition of Holi, bur these are rarely remembered in co ntemporary times. Ask India's much-advertised "youthfol" citizenry abour tl1e si,gnificance of tl1e festival, and they will probably say something vague tl1at includes the terms Holika, burning, Krishna, G opikas . .. aod if pressed fortl1er, will find refuge in Google or Wikiperua. But they will tell you Holi is a feelgood festival - a mega party in which the main element is to have fon; and chat it is a celebration of equality, a celebration of life itself.

And of co urse tl1ey will be right.

Typically, rules are lax, in this festival. Anything goes. (\X!ichin Ii.mies, of course). B1m1 na 1t1ano ... is a common Holi utterance.

Boys and girls, who trarutionally keep their distance, freely mingle.

Harmless, playful flirting is aliowed.

Even tl1e intoxicating bbm~g is permitted: made from the leaves and buds of the cannabis saliva (indica), this concoction is consLm1ed as a drink, or eaten in

sweets or pakoms.

In shorr, at I-Ioli, usuaUy 'unacceptable' behaviour becomes acceptable, if only for a clay.

Breaking the rules is sanctioned.

And it is aJJ taken in a spirit o f good old- fashio ned fun.

Perhaps it is in this spirit tl1at we find the true significance of the festival. Caught up in the drudgery of regimented daily lives, it is therapeucic to ''let go" once in a while, kick chose heels up, have a great big beliy laugh. (Gen-Y readers, those ancient Indian sage-type dudes were on to something .. .)

Holi is not a unique concept.

There are celebrations in other cultures tha t involve a similar "letting go". In tl1e Greek town of Galaxiru, for example, at the beginning of the Eastern Orthodox Lent, people celebrate by tl1rowing Aour at ead1 other, sometimes coloured flour. (Flour

is a symbol of life). They also paint their faces in charcoal, and dance on the streets.

Apparently, in this churchsanctioned festival, people are a!Jowed to indulge, just ahead o f the festival of Lent which is marked by self-denial, ie fasting.

Foods that can.not be eaten at Lene, sud1 as meat, dairy and fat, are especially consumed.

The Bolivar province of Ecuador celebrates the annual Carnival festival, in which people gatl1er in the town square and spray each ocher with coloured dyes, water or flour. Children shoot water-filled balloons at each other (a favourite H oli

occurrence). A nd just like Holi, this is also a festival of joy, with food and drink and sin ging and dancing.

The Thai ew Year festival Song Kran is also marked with flour and water throwing - the festivities seem markedly similar co our O\Vn Holi.

The Tibetan New Year is also welcomed with the tl,rowing of fl ou.r: flour is seen as a symbol o f good luck.

We h ope you indulged a bit at Holi this year, dear reader. Hope you lee go, and had some fun!

~~

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BOOKS

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India's great literary heritage extends itself to modern young readers through the efforts of three highly talented writers

. .....................................................................................................................

I

ndia's two greatest epics, the Ra1mg'ant1 and the l\lfahahharata have struck such deep roots in the country's moral and culrural consciousness that they infringe into every aspect of Indian culrure. For generations they were not only the favourite bedtime stories of lndian children, but they also capmred the attention of great philosophers and theologians who have written extensive commentaries on them . .A few new translations of these timeless epics by t\vo very talented women have brought these tales to a yet newer audience.

Arshia Sattar, a Sanskrit scholar, translated the Valm.iki Ra111tfYa11a inco English to much critical acclaim a few years ago (l 996).

This, and her abridged translations of the Sanskrit Kathasaritsagara had been published ea.rlier by Penguin Books. Her new book Lost Loves: Expl01i11g Rat1Ja} /Jng11ish, is a series of essays on Rama's love for Sica, also published by Penguin recently in 2011.

The otl1er is a rendering of the JV!ahahharata by the very accomplished writer and novelist, Namita Gokhale. Unlike the Ra111qJ'ana, the i\t!ahahhamta is a rnore complex and mulcilayered epic, with narratives inside narratives inside narratives.....

I have a few of the classic renditions on my bookshelf, by R K arayan, C Rajagopalachari, CV l arasimhan, William Buck and many more. Gokhale's P11ffi11 Nlahabharata has been written expressly for young people and is beautifully illusmued by tl1e well-known artist and animator Suddhasatt\va Basu. H is lusciously beautiful drawings are a visual treat for the young - as well as the not so young.

Gokhale has retold this great epic for young readers without reducing the complexities to a simple cha.ice of black and white; she points out, for instance, that Bhima's bullying of Duryodana and Dusshasana contributed, to some extent, to their animosity towards the Pandavas. Neither

does she ignore YL1dhishtbi.ra's weakness for gambling that precipitated a disastrous cha.in of events; nor does she skirt around unpleasant incidents such as the d.isrobing of Draupadi. The heavier philosophical sections of tl1e epic as such as the Bht;gavad Gita and the Shanti Pa111a are explained in a lucid style. Arjuna and Karna emerge as the heroes in this autl,or's version.

Gokhale d.iscusses these - and several other moral dilemmas and ambiguities inherent in chis epic, witl1 disarming ease and simplicity. She begins witl1 the background, expla.ining the cycles of times and the various ways in which the epic has been cold and retold, before delv ing into the story of King Shanta.nu and the river goddess Ganga, and the chain of events that lead co the g reat Kurukshetra war. Every young reader musr have a copy.

Arshia Sattar's translation of Valm.ik.i's !VJmqyana first published in 1996, was an abridged version which successfuU)' adapted this ancient classic and made it accessible to the presentday Engl.ish reader. An added attraction was her superb introduction wh.ich pl'ovided new insights and background information for both the general reader and scholar alike. In her translation, Sattar had taken care nor to use tl1e archaic language preferred by the Sanskrit scholars of the 19'h century, but a very contemporary rendering which focuses on tl1e narrative, rather than on tbe text. For instance, the author points om how 'gait1 galllint (a phrase used to describe Sica) is better translated as 'she walked liked the swaying gait of an elephant' rather tl1an the literal 'she walked like an elephant', for few people today can imagine and understand the graceful ga.ir of an elephant.

There have been several other English translations of tlus epic including the abridged version

by RK arayan, the concise one by C Rajagopalachari, and more recently, the multi-volume version by Ashok Banker as well as the brilliant translation of the Tamil Kalllha Ra111a)'a11a by Sundaram - to name a few; buc Sattar's translat.ion is informed

by her great sdwlacly grasp of Sanskrit. Her new Ramayana, Lost .Loves is a lirtle different ru1d unusual for it attempts to explore the psychological mindset of Rama. As a Sanskrit scholar and translator who studied Rama in all tl1e different versions and rend.i tions, she is si ngnlarly equ.ipped to undertal<e chis task.

In chis collection of essays, Arshia's Rama is ridden witl1 angst and torn bet\veen love and duty, divinity and humanity. Wendy Doniger reminds us that this book makes us see how conflicted Rama really was, and therefore how he is such a good role model for us lowly mortals in the twen ty-first century.

Sattar has a PhD in Souih Asian Languages and Civilisations from the University of Chicago. Her areas of interest are I nd.ian epics, mythology and the story tradit.ions of the subcontinent. Her arrides appear in various national newspapers and magazines. Her book reviews and articles have appeared regularly in various newspapers and journals. She has also worked with documentary film and theatre, and caught Indian Stud.ies ar the l\fahindra United World College of India in Pune for five years. She currently works as a freelance writer and researcher Finally, a tribute to GK Anantharam who was tl1e brains behind the creation of the Amar Chit1'0 lvltha (ACK) illustrated and dramatised popular books on Indian epics,p11m11as, biograph.ies and histories - wh.ich shaped and influenced a few generations of children's reading in English in India. Although the public equates tl1e ACK phenomenon with Ananm Pai and lus Jvlumba.i a·eation in 1967, it was really GK Anantl1aram who produced the first version in Kannada - not English - in 1965, in Bangalore.

Moved by the idea that it was about time Indian children were e.xposed, .in popular writings, to their own hiscory and mythology, he began in a small office in the Bangalore office of the India Book House. He was also influenced by the stirrings of Kannada literary renaissance at tlrnt rime, and he wanted co see ch.ildren reading more books in

the local language. After repeated nagging of his IBH boss GL :iYli.rchandani, Anantharam was allowed to p ublish books in Kannada. Finally, he managed co goad his boss to shell om Rs

10,000 for h.is new baby - wh.ich turned out, after some ups and downs, to be a popular comic series, named At1Jar Chitra Katha

by Ananrhram himself. The rest is history.

. ............................................

''

In her translation, Sattar had taken care not to use the archaic language preferred by the Sanskrit scholars of the 19th century, but a very contemporary rendering which focuses on the narrative, rather than on the text. '

'

ARSHIA SATTAR

Arshia Sattar

. ............................................

''

Neither does (Gokhale) ignore Yudhishthira's weakness for gambling that precipitated a disastrous chain of events; nor does she skirt around unpleasant incidents such as the disrobing of Draupadi. '

'

Namita Gokhale

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INDIAN LINK

MARCI-I 2012 31

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Sony's Playstation consoles are very powerful devices which become even more potent by being linked m the interneL One can then play a game with someone who is long rime ago India realised the far away. If anyone spends a lot of time in value of games as aids for mental such a virtual \vorld, there exists the risk o f d evelopment. The Mahabharata becoming isolated from che real world. story of Nala and Damayanci revolves Computer based programming has around the casting of dice and the science gone far ahead of what t he designers have of mathematics. Nala wins a crucial comest achieved in games of less t han a decade ago. only after mastering the science of numbers.

A new virtual world has b een fashioned in The 1fahabharata refers co a game called which participants create their own fantasy Cbamranga which was then said to be world. A good example is Second Life. This played between cwo sets of rival cousins very popular program has created a virrual world for iL~ "residents". It is no child's (the Pandavas and the Kauravas). Anga refers co the four wings of the army. ln play. One needs a credit card to enrol. Once India this game (now known as chess) '\Vas permitted to enter, one needs to learn the played on a board of eight-by-eight squ ares mies of this virtual world. Whole manuals with frmr sets of pieces which are elephants, have been published (such as S econd Lifafor horses (cavalry), chariots (chariotry) and D11111111ies) about how to operate in the J econd foot soldiers (infantry).

Life world.

These pieces are replaced O ne o f the most in the mr>dern version by interesting Second Life bishops, knights, rooks and ventures is ro create an pawns respectively. image of oneself, the term Chamranga quickly spread being used for such a Numerous computer to the Middle East where fantasy is rightly called an games based on a/Ja!ar. Sucb avatan can be it was first referred co in that revered sleuth Persia as 'Chatrang' and enhanced or altered as time later as 'Shatranj'. From are available, albeit goes by. thence it spread to E urope This avatar concept is of varying quality; through the J\rab world. reminiscent of the last three hopefully these can steps of the medicative Significantly, the Spanish instil in young minds named chess 'Ajed.rez' which process of Patanjali's a love for the science is a translation of tbe Arabic Yoga s11fl'Os. These include of deduction.

'Al shatranj'. In recent focusing on a desired rimes, chess has become creation through dhamna computerised and it is now (meticulous building up of possible to play the gam e an image), df!JtllltJ (gerring absorbed into that image) with a machine.

One of the favourite and sa111adhi (identifying with topics of computer games are newly the created image). The process of creating concocted scories of Sherlock Holmes the image can be helpful for enhancing which fascinate the yorn1g, particularly visualisation. However, the stage of cotally young males. Numerous computer games identifying oneself with the created image based on that revered sleucl1 are available, could be fraught with difficu.Jcies because albeit of varying quality; hopefully these can one might lose a realistic image of o neself instil in young minds a love for the science and o f one's real world. of deduction. J\s the rime-revered sleuth Computer games are here co stay. This Sherlock Holmes would have said: "The multi-billion dollar industry needs both games are truly afoot!" regulation and moderation. Violem games The exploits of the righteous warrior can be banned just like violent movies and is a favourite theme in computer games.

TV progran,s. Many justifiably believe that Hanuman was one such Indian mythical too many violent programs slip past the warrior. Aurona Technologies (Hyderabad) censors and self-regulators. A University developed Hamm1a11: Bqy Warrior for Sony's of Missouri smdy found that chose who Playstaciou2 console. Based on Indian play violent v ideo games gee desensitised to mythology, the scory concerns Hanuman violence, and that they even experience an freeing lifeforms which have been turned increase in aggressiven ess. into stone by the forces of evil. That gives Video games are a powerful mediLUJ-1. A the game a universal appeal. The game can stud)' conducted by East Carolina U niversity found that non-violent video games like also be played in its Hindi version.

India has abundant talent for developing Befeiveled, Peggie and Bookwon11 acmally compucer games. Sony has turned to Indian reduce depression. The emphasis is on nongame developers co produce input for its violence. O thers noce chat addictive playing prestigious Playstation consoles. This is with video games can create depression and another example of developed countries irritability. using Indian outsom cing. But India's talent Computer games are too powerful to be cannot be satisfied by merely becoming left to self-re!,>ulation.

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• Naan Jori • Naan Gadhi Additional Skewers are available (if required).

Tandoors are of high quality Stainless Steel and are on Wheels for easy mobility.

All tandoors are fully assembled with gas burners and only require a licensed gas fitter to connect to gas connections. No other cost or assembling required.

Charcoal tandoors are also available in the above sizes.

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MARCI-I 2012 33

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End Jan, we had our first joint drill. Ic was such a massive effort. On the second practise at Parramatta my battery operated audio system gave up. I got my car in the car lot ta play the song. Practise wenr off satisfactarily, bur a.fi:erwards, we found my car battery Aat. (Man deep Raje and Adirya Apce used their car to help jump start!)

5"' Feb, Sunday was the next big joim rehearsal.

Ankic offered his car park for practise.

0/'le hired a generator for the practise - no more Aat car batteries). 45 dancers now.

Passers-by sropped and watched for ages.

Sachin Saraf, gem of a guy, played 'nanny', as everyone dumped their kids on him.

Everyone was helping, in their own silent way.

The lase practise session summed up che rehearsals. C locks were synchronized, timings were set in srone, logistics were sorted out, the formation, meeting place.... all was agreed on. Tue weather was the only unknown and unplanned aspect. It was agreed, rain or no rain, the show muse go on!

9,h Feb, Thursday, lase day con races were made co the Po]jce and City of Sydney Council. All good co go! Over 50 in che mob now, including four Aussies, one Japanese, two Chinese, and several Sri Lankans.

I Och Feb, Friday, K- Day, weather was downcast, bm not our spirits, especially as the appoinred time, 4.00pm, drew near. We had all been praying for the rain ta stop.

And, guess what, it did, just a few minutes before show time!

I had left the compucer in hibernate mode. (Tue music was on it). As I opened it at 3 .55pm - it had switched offi I had co restart. It seemed co take ages ta respond, and r was stressed as crazy. F inally it worked, and I was relieved. The Aash mob started exactly 10 seconds after 4 :00pm ....... right on cue as per our plan. (The people who spoke to me in those 4 minuces, must have thought I was a lunatic, or finally become convinced tl1at I've always been one!)

We danced our hearts om - just watch the YouTube video and you'll know we enjoyed every minute of it!

All done, we dispersed as quietly as we had ga thered.

4 .4 5pm, it was drizzling, and Pitt St Mall was deserted. Tue heavens bad opened up just for us, we were quite convinced. ....

Looking ahead For Rashmi at least, Kolaveri fever continued for a few more days, as she set about producing the video of fa all, recording the past five weeks of our lives for all posterity.

For the rest of us, it seemed like a void, really, not having Kolaveri in our ]jves, seeing it had dominated so much if it so recen dy. The cure? Anor.her flash mob, you say? Oh, alright. .. ! Want ta join us? End of March, Hali, in your best whites. Ir's going ta be a 'colourful' Aash mob, we can assure you!

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MARCI-I 2012 37

FASHION

Oversize is all the Make a statement this season with bright, dramatic, bold jewellery

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BV TALIA KAUR

his season, jewe.llery has been super-sized. Ir seems necklaces should completely cover your chest, headpieces should dazzle and empower, earrings should be the size of miniature chandeliers and chunky bracelets should be stacked up high.

Bigger is definitely better when it comes to this season's trend of oversized statement jewellery and as the name suggests, these bold, bling and beautiful pieces are designed co be attention-grabbers.

Statement jewellery first came into fashion couture as a strong trend in the spring/ summer of 2009, bur is making a comeback and was recently seen in Chanel's pre-aummn/winter 2012-13 ParisBombay collection. Ir featured countless lndian inspired statement ned<laces, bracelets and headpieces which were made of gems, studs, diamonds and pearls.

Despite lnclians • hmring worn tbis trend for cennu:ies, Chanel's modern

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interpretation has led the way for other des.igoers to experiment with jewe.llery.

Buinga new piece of je\ve.llery is a simple and effective way of updating an old look or dressing up a casual look, and is a dever way of protecting your personal.icy and individual style.

Also, when purchasing from stores like Lovisa, Colette, Sportsgirl, Witchery or PeepToe, ic doesn't put pressure on your wallet. So how do you wear th.is over-the-top jewellery? And what kind of clothes do they effectively team up with?

We.11, I have a few suggestions.

But remember, die key .is fi!:,•ucing out how to make statement pieces work for you, instead o f feeling overwhelmed by diem.

Starr by easing your way in. Choose one key piece: a necl<lace, earrings, bracelet or even

1

38 MARCI-I 2012

a headband. By wearing the one piece, it becomes the focus of your outfit and won't have to compete with any other jewellery.

Be sure to also keep tl1e rest of your styling, such as hair, makeup and clothes, relatively simple. If you don't feel your outfit is complete with only one item of jewellery, cry not to wear srarement pieces coo close to each other. For instance, avoid showy earrings with a dran1atic necklace. Instead, wear the earrings ,i~t!, a marcl1ing cuff bracelet, or wear the necl<lace with small and simple smds.

When ir comes to elaborate pieces, cry tearning up with casual clothes. Th.is aces as a blank backdrop for more complicated je\vellery. When teaming a multicoloured, chain or bib-style necklace witl1 a pair of your favourite skinny jeans, t-shitt and boors, it keeps me outfit casual and allows the necklace to really 'pop'.

Too casual for you? Try pairing it with a plain silk sh.ire and neutral tailored shorts or pants instead.

Mal<e sure you pay aaention ro necklines on your outfit. Haire.rs and really high necklines compete wi ti, big neckfaces, so it's best to go for large earrings or an armful of bracelets instead.

2

If you feel confident wearing several bold pieces at once, try wearing different texmres and sizes togetl1er on only one part of the body at a time. Pair thin bracelets \\~th chain styles, studs o r cuffs, and layer pearls, chains, or colourful beaded necl<laces togeilier. 111.is instantly creates an eye-catching and fashionable look. However, try not to mix too many colours in eitl1er the jewellery or clothes, and if you do break the rules a little and wear more than one statement piece, make sure they complement each ocher.

3

Lastly, it's important to realise char a single statement piece of jewellery worn can emphasise or de-emphasise parts of your body. For example, if you feel self-conscious about your bottom or mid-section, wear a striking necklace or an elaborate pair of earrings, and this will ensure chat all tl1e attention is focused up top. Wear a statement bracelet or anklet co draw attention co your waistline or below. Just remember, whichever way you chose to wear your statement pieces this season, wear it with confidence and you'll look and feel like a million dollars!

4

Diva feather necklace $20

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Terms and conditions apply and are available on request. To be eligible for this offer you must be an Australian resident and/or be available to be identified in Australia upon opening the Account 'Free International Transfers available from Citibank Australia to Citibank accounts in 26 countries worldwide using Citibank"' Global Transfers. Daily transfer limit applies. Funds are converted to thi destination account currency at the exchange rate specified to you on Citibank Online before you confirm your transaction. This exchange rate includes a commission for the conversion service. Transfer: will normally reach the destination account almost Immediately after being effected, but in some cases (depending on the availability of processing facilities at the destination) may t ake a maximum of 2t hours. Citibank Plus is issued by Citigroup Ply Limited ABN 88 004 325 080, AFSL 238098 {'Citibank'). The fees and charges and Terms and Conditions that apply are available on request. Any advice i: general advice only. It was prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Before acting on this advice you should consider if it's appropriate for your particula1 circumstances. Further information and our dispute resolution process is available at www.citibank.com.au or by phone on 1300 137 931. ©2011 Citigroup Ply Limited ABN 88 004 325 080 AFSL No 238098. Citibank®, Citi'" and Arc Design® are registered service marks of Citibank, N.A. or Citigroup Inc.

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MARCI-I 2012 39

WELLNESS

The white Foods Foods white in colour can provide you with minerals, vitamins and all-round health benefits

WHITE BE n previous issues we have discussed the health benefits of eating black and red coloured foods. Now let us discuss the important nutrients in white coloured foods, and how they help to improve or maintain our health.

White foods have earned a bad name and have been labelled as a culprit for obesity, as well as increasing our blood sugar levels and cholesterol, but does that mean we should eliminate foods that are white in colour? Some white foods such as sugar or relined carbohydrates like white b read, pasta may not be as good for us as the high fibre wholegrain ones, but there are certain white foods that are too healthy to be ignored.

I

NA Bananas are rich in potassium, an essential mineral for maintaining no rmal blood pressure and heart function. In addition to these cardio\ ascular benefit\ the potassiLm1 found in bananas may also hel p to promote bone health. Bananas contain pectin, a soluble fibre (called a hydrocolloid) that can help normalize movemenc through die digestive tract and ease constipation.

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Most white fish such as cod, bass, sole, percl, and haddock are very low in fat. It is recommended to have fish at least 2-3 times a week. Even though white fish is verr low in fat, die calorie and fat content will increase if you decide to cook the fish in an unhealthy way such as by deep-frying. The second way to pile on the calocies is by serving fish \vid1 a fattening sauce that contains butter or cream, for e,'(ample.

While oily fish contain higher quancities of vitamins A, D and E, they are also rich in a number of B vitamins such as niacin (B3) needed to promote healthy cells and to help eliminate toxins ftotn tbe body, and pyridoxine (B6) which keeps the skin, nervous system and red blood cells heald,y: \X'hite fish is also rich in several essential mineral~ such as iron, phosphorOQ'i, selenium, and iodine.

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Garlic has always been considered good for healrn, but in recent years it has become a food for study for researchers.

Garlic contains d,e powerful anti-oxidant alli.cin that also gives garlic its aroma and Aavour. It is rich in sulphur-containing molecules called polysulphides that help in improving blood pressure. Garlic still helps to protect against heart disease by reducing the risk of abnormal platelet clumping that can lead to a heart attack.

It aL~o has anti-bacterial and anti-viral effects, which may help to ward off colds and other mi.nor infections.

40 MARCM 2012

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CAULIFLOWER CauliAower is a non-starchy cruciferous vegetable containing sulphur-rich compounds called glucosinolates, which activate d1e body's detoxification system.

These may play a role in preventing various types of cancers. Cauliflower contains the second highest amount of glucosinolates, after broccoli. Cauliflower is also a good source o f vitamin C and potassium.

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\,\(/bite beans also known as navy beans have many health benefirs. These are low GI and loaded with trace mineral molybdenum. These are also a good source of magnesim11. Being low in GI, white beans avoid triggering high blood sugar levels and th us help improve blood sugar levels. White beans are said to prndL1ce alpha-amylase inhibitors which help regulate fat storage in the body.

The magnesium in me beans helps you to handle stress levels better and is also good for healthy bones.

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There i.s always controversy abom which is me healthier meat: white meat like rabbit and chicken, or red meat like mutton and beef, which co me from t he Aesh o f big mammals. Lean red meat is an excellent source of iron and protein, but we have to be careful with the portion sizes since it is high in fat too, whereas white meat is lower in fat. The bottom Line is that no marter which meat you eat, you can guard yourself against health problems if you eat in moderation.

WHITE ONION

Turnips are usually white in colour from me bottom until halfway up and become light purple, red, or green according co the sunlight that has fallen on them, until me top. Turnips are a good source of C and B vitamins. They also contain manganese which helps metabolize fat and carbohydrates and keeps your brain functioning properly.

White onions have sulplmr compounds d1at give chem not only d1eir strong odour, but some excellent health benefits as well. Sulphur compounds help to reduce abnormal blood clotting and also help to reduce blood cholesterol and blood pressute. Wbite onions contain flavonoid quercetin, known for its anti-inflammatory properties and cardiovascular health benefits. These are good for the digestive tract and also have anti-inflammarory and anti-oxidant effects.

?vlushrooms are loaded with nutrients. They have high levels of anti-oxidants and are low in calo ries, fat and sodiw11, yet provide importam nutrient~ like selenium, potassium, riboflavin, niacin, vitam in D and more. A ntioxidants like selenium protect body cells from damage that might lead to chro nic diseases and also help to strengthen t he inu11une system. Mushrooms also provide ergochionei ne, a naru.rally occurting anti-oxidanc that may help protect body cells. .Mushrooms are also a good source of vitamin D. Antioxidants like selenium, p rotect body cells from damage d1at might lead to chro nic diseases.

Tbey help to strengthen the immune system, as well.

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AGONYAUNT

Ask Auntyji Dear Auntyji

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What the hell is going on with the Indian cricket team? All of my fami ly were so very excited about the cricket this summer, but the team has performed so poorly that they have brought shame upon all Indians in this wide brown land. The bowling has lacked penetration, the fielding has been shoddy, tactically they've lacked imagination and don't even get me started about the batting.

Auntyji says Oh, you bad man! You very very bad man. Have you no shame smiting your cricket team? They have given you so much pleasure over the last 10 years and they have raised the status of India so much, the one time they need your support and you turn Hansie Cronje on them? Besharam! Nalayak! Do you recall the depth of happiness you felt when Dhoni hit the six into the sultry Mum bai night to win t he World Cup final last year? And do you recall the exquisite p leasure when Dravid and Laxman had their 300-run partnerships against Australia in Calcutta in 2001 and Adelaide in 2003? You are indeed a fair weather friend and the Indian cricket team does not need a fan like you. I suggest you join the Aussie fan club immediately because at least they will all tell you where to go if you belittle the team. I suggest you start supporting your team and write them letters of encouragement- instead of sitting there raining crap on them. Disappointed, I am, i n you. Poor Sachin bhai. He deserves better than this, you haraami. Don't you dare say another word against my beloved Indian cricket team.

Dear Auntyji I have just met my son's 23-year-old girlfriend and she is from Italy. She is a really nice girl, but I realised that she is here on a student visa and my son was talking about moving in together. My concern is that the girl might just be using my son for her visa status. My son seems to really like her, and he is an intelligent hardworking young man, and I don't want the girl taking advantage of him. Do you think I should say something?

Auntyji says Oh, us mothers always worry about our children and are always thinking that someone or the other is about to dupe our children out of their healt h, wealth and happiness. I'm pleased you have not said anything, because it is too early to be making any such allegation. If your son is as intelligent as you say he is, then I am sure he is quite aware of the visa situation. Let them be - sooner or later you will get to know this girl better and will be able to work out her motives. Keep in mind that not everyone gets together with someone just for their visa. Your son does not need your disapproving allegations - so support your son and watch the girl. If things get to a stage where you think the girl is with him just for the visa, then you have every right to say something. But in the meantime, keep your suspicions to yourself and try not to let your jasoosi find evidence with each interaction you have w ith the girl.

Open your heart and your mind - this girl could be the mother of your grandchildren one day - the last thing you want to do is start on the wrong foot. And, if you continue to h ave suspicions, just think of Rahul Gandhi. His Italian mother raised him to be a good Hindustani. What more endorsement could you want?

Do you have a question for Auntyji?

Send it in to GPO Box 108 Sydney 2001 or email it to info@indianlinl<.com.au

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BEAUTY

The rightfacial When you're in the mood to de-stress and enjoy a bit ofpersonal pampering, spoil yourself with a relaxing facial

facial is not just a beauty treatment; it is a time for women to get away from their busy, multi- tasking Jives and indulge in some ' m e' time. These d ays men coo a.re getting facials done, but we wilJ discuss their options another time.

Let's examine the r ight kind of facial for different skin types.

Jc is the era of specialization so with every aspect of our lifestyle having multiple choices, why should beaury treatments be any differen t? Think abonr the cho ices in moisturizers or shampoos and conditioners you can easily spend half a day choosing the product that is right for you. So rake you r time in choosing the right treatment.

Fil:stly, if you have the patience for a full-fledged beauty treatment every month, then by a.ll mea.ns go for it. But if you are short on time and have fewer options, go in for a facial. A facial, if do ne well, can be a d estress mechanism and can ma.ke the skin glow.

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Which one is right?

1 ow that we have established the imporrnnce of a regular facial, how does one know which one to go for? There are several facials on offer using all kinds of ingredients. Fruit, vegetables, aloe vcra, gem stones, gold , AHAs, flowers - they a.cc all pa.ct of facials on offer at various salons. The trick is to know w hich one works for you and stick w ith chat. If you wish to experiment, 1 would suggest you go w ich products that are namral and hypoa.llergenic so you don't brca.k out into a rash or have unnecessary chemicals absorbed b y your skin.

A classic or regular facial offered at most salons will include cleansing, toning a.nd moisturizing, and a mask. The cleansing process incl udes exposing the skin ro steam to open up the pores and remove blackheads. An ice pack is then used to close the pores.

The facia l massage is done in clo ckwise or anti-clockwise directions and any product application extends ro the neck area, as well as all over the face.

The mask is usuaJJy mea.nt ro provide rhe skin some extra n ourishment or righten the s kin.

Most salons will also extend the moisturising treatment to the back of the neck and the shoulders m relax the muscles.

Why have a facial?

No matter how much we do the cleansing- coning-mo isturising routin e, getting tl1e same thing done by a professional with products that are sometimes more concentrated than the o n es available off the shelf, can produce better results.

Besides, the girls at the salons are professionally trained and they know the right way co massage and tone the skin, and tbc muscles of the face, neck a.nd shoulder relax \Vith the brisk rub they get.

A facial improves skin tone, gets rid of dead skin, blackheads a11d whiteheads, leaving the skin feeling fresh and rejuvenated. lt also improves blood circulation a.nd the skin's elasticity.

A few salons will include au acupressure-like treatment as pa.ct of the facial where they apply pressure to certain points on ilie face. This can help Rush out toxins and detox the skin.

And it goes without saying that a facial ca.n be a.n effective anti-ageing cool to keep lines and wrinkles at bay.

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Facial for dry skin If you have dry skin, ensure that the facial you get uses creams and moisnirizers that will nourish the skin with extra moisture. Tf you have a choice, go for a deep nourish ment face pack for a mask. Some face packs that use clay or Fuller's earth (m11/ta11i mith) can leave the skin feeling drier than before. Always, always, ask for moisturising ones.

The exfoliation process usua1Jy involves using a scrub of some sort bur opt for a mild o ne or one that bas a semi-liquid base so your skin doesn't fee l coo dry.

The serum that is used after the face pack is taken off should also be one that provides moisture to the deepest levels of your skin.

Facial for oily skin Most salons will use generic products for aJJ kinds of skin at rhe cxfoliation and toning stages. But when it comes to moisturising, o ne has robe careful as o ily skin does not need

much massaging or moisture-rich creams. If massage is involved, make sure they use products suited to oily skin and keep rhe duration of the massage co a minimum.

O ily skins can opt for face masks that tighte n the skin, shrink the pores and reduce excess oil on the skin's surface. If you have pimples, get rid of them first with effective anti-acne treatments and then going in for a facial.

Facial for normal skin Peo ple wid1 this skin type are lucky as they need everyiliing in the right proportions. They d on't need to have extra moisturising or extra anything, for that matter.

The balanced pH levels of their skin means tl1cy need to maintain and protect their skin. What people wid1 normal skin need to keep in mind is that their facial should exfoliare and nourish, more than anyth ing else.

Facial for combination skin This is a tricky one as people with combination skin have oily skin - usuall y on their forehead s and chin, and dry skin along the checks or vice versa.

After cleansing, the dry parts of the skin need co be massaged with a moisturising cream and the oily pa.res n eed coning. Opt for a face mask t hat nou.rishes the skin, rather wan one that provides moisture or tones the skin. The same goes for the serum that is applied after the face pack comes off. Opt for a safe, nourishment or anti-wrinkle serum to reduce any after effects of the facial.

Facts about facia ls • You don't really need a facial if you are under 25. While in your late 20s you ca.n sea.rt having a facial done, bur not even o nce every month . Once in three months is just fine.

• If you are over 30, it is advisable to have a facial done every month. If you don't have the time, opt for a clean-up at d1e very least.

• A good facial shoul d last for at least au hour. If your beautician tinishes your facial in half an honr to 45 minutes, it is a rush job. Ir takes time for the face mask to dry and during the massage, the skin absorbs creams or k)tions only for a certain amou nt of time. Most beauticians are aware of these

facts and give a facia.l accordingly, a.nd it usually adds up to an hour or so.

• The neck area too should be given the same treatments as the face, from exfoliation to serum stages.

• Some women opt for b leach treatmenrs along with a facial in the hope that it will lig hten their skin tone. A bleach is the worst chemica.l you can apply o n yonr face. lt usually leads to pigmentation when you step out in the sun after a tream1ent. Combining bleach with a facial exposes )'Ollf newly exfoliated skin to a harsher dose of chemicals which can damage the skin instead of repairing it.

• Jf the beautician is pulling at your skin a bit too hard, feel free to insist she should be gentle because all that nigging and pulli11g during the massage is meant to be gentle. It should not stress the skin.

• If any product applied causes a burning or tingling sensation, let the beautician know immediately. lt could be that you are aUergic to some ingredient in the product.

• Avoid strong smelling or very fragrant products and let your beautician know char you would prefer milcUy fragranced or fragrance-free products that are h)lJoallcrgenic.

So, if you have the time and arc in tl1c m ood for some TLC, go get a facial. It is a great way ro relax and have some quiet time.

TRAVEL

There is a charm and serenity about Asia that enchants the mind and soul of a traveller

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BY THOMAS EKING

ncompassing the great cultural diversity, historic differences and scenic variety of Asia in a just a few words is not an easy cask. Even for someone like me who has spent much of his life tiptoeing across mountain highs and waltzing along valley lows, it's still a mind-daunting undertaking.

After much deliberation I can only say that Asia is truly a place of infinite mystique where visitors can indulge all of their senses.

Just as difficult as defining Asia, is illustrating my fascination for the continem. These few snippets with Indian links, however, may provide intriguing d ues.

E

Pokhara Pictures It's early morning in the Pokhara Valley, 200 km west o f Kathmandu. Even though the first rays of the sun are yet to leap over the hills, Hindu pilgrims are preparing for puja at the most sacred temple in tl1e serene vale.

Set on a wooded islet in the middle of a picture perfect lake, the Barahi Temple also provides an unobstructed vantage point for an incredible vista of wate.r and mountam.

The mighty Himalayan Mountains span some 2560 km from northern Pakistan and India into China. The 8854-metre high l\ift Everest can't be seen from Pokhara but eight colossal peaks are often visible from selected locations in and around I epal's largest second largest city. Stretching from east ro west, the 140 km lo ng panorama of

44 MARCM 2012

the A n napurna Range seen in Pokhara includes Annapurna I ro IV and Annapurna Soutl1.

Though it's not the tallest, the sharp triangular peak of Machhapuchhre stands out distinctl y from the pack of mountains. Some of the other peaks are higher, but being farther away they are dwarfed by i ts fishtailed pinnacle.

The magnificent massif of Machhapuchhre has not been conquered. Consequently, the pyramidal fa<;:ade of tlus 6993-merre mountain marvel can only be admired, and that's whar tens o f thousands of domestic and foreign visitors do each year.

Lt's doubtful that there is any place other than Pokhara where so man)' great Himalayan peaks can be seen from such a close position. Annapurna I is just 50 km away, while Machhapuchhre is 30 km down tl1e road. A sense of awe swept over me as I stood at me lakeside vamage point 900 metres above sea level gazing at an icy summit nearly 7 km high.

It was 11.ud March and the rhododendrons were in full b loom, adding splashes of red to the w hite of mountain snow and the blue of tl1e sky. March and April are ideal times to visit Pokhara as the winter chill has gone. The only disadvantage is tlrnt afternoons can be cloudy wid1 occasio nal thunderstorms.

Though colder, midOctober to December is tl1e other optimum period.

Autumn is the season when Nature wields a colourful brush of transition over the landscape. O ranges, reels and yellows and patches of pure gold enliven d1e scene.

I've visi ted Pokhara in both seasons and prefer spring as it's warm and stmny. It's comfortable to sit and leisurely gaze at mountains rcAectecl in the glassy waters of Phewa Lake, a 2½ km long body of pure

Himalayan water that has its origins in not so distant ice fields.

Sensations of Sabah A stark mountain-top thrust above the lush tropical greenery of Sabah is the sole destination for many tourists who visit tlJis activity-packed state of East Malaysia. Kota Ki.uabalu, the state capital, is the entry point for Malaysia's most far flung realm and as I disco,Tered, the best starting point for a thrill packed journey to a mount,'lin called Kinabalu.

Park headquarters for tlJe sanctuary that encircles tl1e fabled mountain are 88 km from the city.

A wide higb,vay put5 the abLmdant flora and less visible faw1a of tl1e 754 sq km Kinabalu National Park within an hour's drive.

Many day trippers from 'KK' as it's commonly called, come for tl1ese attractions with the added inducement of being able to spend a few calm hours strolling in cool mountain air.

Wild orchids, lovely bluebells, daffodils, rhododendron and tl1e giant RafAesia witl1 a flower measuring up to a metre across are found along walking tracks.

I r's not very likely you'll spot wildlife, though sightings of flying squirreJ, barking deer, bearded pig and even orang-utan have been recorded. A few

hours of relaxation among 1200 odd varieties of orchids and 325 varieties of birds may be enough for some, but others won't settle for anything less tl1an tl1e buzz of scaling the usually cloud obscured mount.

The first recorded ascent of the highest peak between the Himalayas and r ew Guinea was made in 1851 by Sir Hugh Lo\\-; a British government officer.

Assaults on the l O miJlion year old, 4095 metre h igh granite massif don't make heacllines these days because thousands of visitors annually make tl1e climb. No special mountaineering experience is required if the main route to the glacier scarred smrunit is followed, but the climb is very tiring and tourists must be in good shape to complete the two to three day rrip.

Several huts with basic cooking and accommodation facilities strategically located along the way have been established to make the journey more comfortable.

The driest and sunniest part of the year is from February to May but even then stout shoes, a warm hat, gloves and warm clothes are needed plus food for the entire journey. A sleeping bag can be rented at the hurs. Climbers must utilise the services of an authorised guide and porters can be hired.

Visitors who simply want to slow clown for a few days and not test their endurance will enjoy the serenity of the area and tl1e variety of pleasant options available.

My wife and l, for instance, traipsed a.long the path winding through the park's extensive botanical garden, went golfing at a picmresque course located on the mountain slope, and spent hours at our heritage resort sitting opposite an amazingly cloudless peak and watching the last rays of the day cast a pink hue over this geologic wonder.

Hue: No hurry Located roughly midway between the unbridled frenzy of Ho Chi l\ilinh City - more commonly called Saigon - to the south and me more conservative Hanoi, the

capital of the 86 million-strong Socialist Republic of Vietnam to the north, the provincial capital of Hue (pronounced Hway) has long been one of the nation's main religious and educational centres. l gained a valuable incrocluction into its culrural attributes and saw a variety of its historical landmarks during a pleasant excursion on the Huong (Perfume) River in a boar 'guarded' by rwin dragons. "They symbolise double power," said Ngoc, my genial and ever-smiling guide who provided detailed commentary on 400,000-strong Hue. We chatted while tl1e aluminium craft cur through the water and then coasted ro a rustic riverbank jetty where scores of oilier dragon boats were temporarily m oored.

Rising beyond several brilliant Flame of the Forest trees lining the river bank, was an octagonal tower. Hue is a metropolis of pagodas with more tl1an 300 sacred Buddhist buildings gracing the city. Built in 1844, the seven tiered Thap Phuoc Duyen Tower was constructed on the grow1ds of the older Thien Mu (Heavenly Lady) Pagoda.

Budd11ism ca.me from India and then spread throughout V iecnam. Today 90 per cent of the population profess the gentle faitl1. Severa.I dozen adherents currently live at the monastery beyond the towe.r. It's a place of peaceful contemplation once tourist hordes leave. The sweeping scene of .river boats and the purple hue of the Troung Son Mmmta.in Range beyond was enticing, bur another major point of interest was only a few kilometres upstream.

Also set above tl1e river, tl1e Tomb of Minh Mang is the most typical and best preserved of all the royal mausoleums in Hue. Said to be modelled after the Ming Tombs in Beijing, tl1e 18 ha. complex is filled with statues, temples, terraces and stone bridges. In tl1e middle of i[ all is a

large hill of eartl1 where the emperor rests, shaded by p ines. The exact location of the tomb is unknown because, Ngoc explained, much gold and silver was in terred with tl1e revered royal ruler.

Jl,,linh Mang was the second emperor in the Nguyen Dynasty, a line of hereditary rulers whim lasted for 143 years. All 13 Nguyen emperors Lived in a massive fortified expanse spread over tl1e northern bank of the Perfume River. In 1802, after nearly 40 years of conflict, Vjetna.rn was united for the first time by a Saigon lord, Nguyen Phuc Anh. He proclaimed himself Emperor Gia Long as the first Nguyen ruler, and began rebuilding the Phu Xuan Citadel into an impregnable stronghold, the first fortified city in Asia modelled on European military design.

'Fortified' is the operative word because tl1e 10 km in circumference Citadel has an 8 metre high, 21 metre thick ourer wal l. Inside tl1is 520 ha stronghold where subjects Lived, wor ked and tended fields was another moatenclosed space, the Inner City or Dai Noi. Accessible tl1rough four en trances, access through the Ngo Mon Gate was once reserved solel)' for d1e emperor. l walked Lmhindered mrnugh this passageway, across the stonebuilt Golden Water Bridge which spans a fish-filled loms pond, and into a still splendid palace where emperors would confer with advisors, meet otl1er nobles and issue royal decrees. The elevated red and gold throne where this occurred takes centre stage in the Thai Hoa (Supreme Peace) Palace, a spacious hall \vith an ornate roof supported by 80 carved, gold inlaid and lacquered columns. l briefly paused before this grand spectacle sensing that what lay beyond would also be a feast for the senses.

MARCl-l 2012 45

FOOD

While good old roasted bhutta, our local corn on the cob tastes best, this vegetable can be adapted to a surprising variety of dishes from plain popcorn to gourmet cutlets.

I:. l . . _,

___J RAJNI ANAND

IJ_!, AJII LUTHRA

Roasted o n charcoal and rubbed witb lemon juice, sale and chilli powder - tliat is probably how most Indians best like tl1eir fresh corn. The closest yo u can get to tl1at

• • •••• • ••••••••• • ••••••• • •• Corn Korma

here in Australia is boiled corn dished out by vendors at street fairs and beach-sides. Equally good, you might say!

I like sweet corn best the way my kids eat it - simply was hed in water and cooked in the microwave for three minutes on high, no dressing.

Yet many different ways of serving corn can be found in India□ cuisine. Sample the following.

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2 cups corn kernels

Corn Raita

3-4 tbsp tomato puree

1/2 - ¾ cup corn kernels

1 medium-sized o nion , finely chopped 1 tsp crushed garlic ¼ tsp turmeric powder l tsp chilli powder ½ cup coconut milk 1/2 tsp sugar 1 tsp garam masala Salt to taste 2 tbsp oil Coriander leaves for garnish

250 gros yoglmrt Salt to taste 1 tsp pepper powder ½ esp red chil1i powder 1 tsp cumin seeds I tbsp grated coconut Green coriander for garnishing

Heat oil in a pan and fry tbe on.ions and garlic. When lightly browned, add tomato puree. Stir well and fry for awhile. Then, add me corn, tl1e dry masala, salt and sugar. Add o ne cup of water and allow to boil.

Finally add the coconut milk, stir weU and serve garnished wim coriander.

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Corn Cutlets I cup corn kernels 2 medium-sized potatoes 1 medium-sized onion

1 esp grated ginger 1 tsp crushed garlic 1 tsp coriander powder l tsp cnmin po,vder 1 tsp red chilli powder (or to taste) Salt for taste Chopped fresh coriander leaves Oil for deep-frying Boil and mash tl1e potatoes. Give the corn a gentle whirl in tlie food processor. Dice tl1e onion fine.

Mi..'X potatoes, corn, onion, ginger and garlic, and coriander, cumin and chilli powders. i\dd the salt and coriander leaves.

1fake smaU round balls of the mixmre.

Heat tl1e oil iu tl1e frying pan or wok.

Put the small balls of the mi..'<ture into die hot oil one by one. Deep fry un til golden brow □. Drain o n absorbent paper.

Serve hot with tomato sauce or m intcoriander chutney.

46 MARCI-I 2012

Beat yoghurt weU, add salt, pepper, chilli powder, grated coconut and corn, and mix weU. Dry roast cumin seeds and powder.

Add this to raita. Garnish widi coriander.

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Corn Masala Rice l cup basmati rice l cup corn kernels I cup green peas 10-12 cashews halved 1 tsp chilli powder 1 tsp sambhar masala 1 / 2 esp garam masala 1 tsp sugar ¼ tsp mrmeric Salt ro taste Ju.ice of 1 lemon 2 tbsp o il or ghee ½ esp each cumin and mustard seeds.

Heat ghee in a heavy-bottomed saucepan.

Add die cashews and fry till light brown.

Remove.

To tl1e same oil, add cumin and mustard seeds to splutter. Add the corn, peas, rice and all dry masalas and 5 cups water. Cover and cook till almost done.

Add lemon juice, sugar, coriander and cashews. Cover and cook till rice is done and no water is left.

Serve hot with yoghurt.

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Corn Bhel 1 cup corn kernels ½ cup grated carrot I m edium onion diced fine 1 medium tomato chopped fine

½ cup coriander chopped fine

Gujarati-style Corn

1 large boiled potato

2 cups corn kernels 1 ½ cups milk ½ tsp grated ginger 1 green chilli, finely chopped ½ tsp sugar Salt ro taste Red chilli powder to taste 2 tbsp desiccated coconut (or grated fresh) 1 tbsp oil '/ ,, esp cumin seed s Fresh coriander for garnish.

½ cup plain yoghurt ½ cup seII (fine) 1 tsp chat masala 1 tsp limejuice I finely cliopped green chiUi ½ tsp powdered sugar ½ esp cmnin seeds powdered

Keep aside scv and half the coriander.

Chop potato finely. ML'X all tlie ingredients well in a large mixing bowl. (Best do this just before serving).

Transfer to indiv idual bowls. Garnish wim se1, and coriander.

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Peas and Corn Cutlets 1 cup peas 1 cup corn kernels 6 spring onions, thi nly sliced 2/ 3 cup fine polenta 2/3 cup self-raising flour l ½ tsp coriander powder 2 eggs ½ cup plain yoghurt Oil for frying Salt and pepper ro taste.

Mix togetl1er pea.s, corn, spring onio ns, pole□ta, salt and pepper.

Ad d sifted flour and coriander powder.

Ml'X }'Olks from bodi eggs in ½ cup yoghurt and add to peas and corn mL"Xrure.

Beat egg whites we.11. Fold one-third into peas and corn mi.."Xture and mix well. Gently fold in remaining egg whites.

Heat oil in a frying pan. Over meclium heat, spoon smaU quantities of rnix mte into oil and Aatten slightly. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden and cooked mrough.

Drain on absorbent paper.

Serve hot witl1 tomato sauce or minrcoria□cler chutney.

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Corn and Cheese Sandwich Mix 1 cup corn kernels

1 cup shredded tasty cheese ½ bunch of fresh dill leaves, finely cut 1 tbsp mayonnaise 1 tbsp cream Salt to taste ¾ tsp sugar. l\,Cix all the ingredients well in a bowl.

U se as san dwich spread .

Combine milk and corn kernels in a pan and bring ro a boil. Keep on a simmer, stirring occasionally, till most of tl1e milk is evaporated. Remove from the hear.

In anorl1er pan, heat oil and add cumin seeds. \i::rhen tl1ey begin to pop, add ginger and green chilli and stir. Theo add die corn, salt, sugar and red chilli powder. Stir. Then add die coconut and fresh coriander. Mix weU.

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Chicken Corn-wallah 8 chicken drumsticks

¼ cup plain flour 1 chicken stock cube 2 tsp crushed garlic 2 large onio ns, chopped 2 tbsp oil 2 cups corn kernels 2 cups peas 4 large tomatoes, cho pped (use tinned tomatoes if preferred).

1 tbsp tomato paste ¼ cup brandy (optio nal) ½ cup mango chutney Red chilli powder to taste '/~ tsp turmeric powder 1 cup water Mix Aour wiLh crumbed stock cube and toss drumsticks in. Shake away excess flour.

Heat oil in a pan and cook drumsticks un til lightly browned. Remove drumsticks from o il. ln me same oil, add onions and garlic and coo k until soft. Add nu:meric, tomatoes, tomato paste, corn, peas, chur□ ey and brandy. Stir weU, rl1en add the drumsticks, pepper and water and simmer, covered until chicken is cooked through.

• • •••••• • •• • ••••••••••••••• Corn Paneer 250 gms paneer, diced I cup corn kernels 2 large tomatoes diced 1 esp cmnin seeds 1 tsp coriander powder ½ tsp turmeric powder Reel chilli powder to taste

www.indianlink.com.au

IJ

2 tsp oil Salt to taste Fresh coriander leaves for garnish.

Put corn through food processor to make a thick paste. Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pan, add cumin seeds and allow to splutter. The add coriander, turmeric and red chilli powders and stir brieAy. lntroduce diced tomatoes. Cook, stirring and mashing well until combined with [he masala powders and oil begins to separate. Reduce bea[ and put in the com pas[e and salt Stir briefly until well-combined. Add in paneer and mix gently. Cook, covered, on medium heat. Serve garnished with fresh coriand er .leaves.

• • ••••••••••••••••••••••••• Kadhai Babycorn 2 cups chopped baby corn (either canned or fresh) 2 large capsicums (one green and o ne red), deseeded and chopped finely 1 large onion cut into dun strips I tsp crushed garlic I tsp grated ginger 5-6 [Sp tomato sauce 1-2 rsp kas11ri methi (drjed fenugreek leaves) l tsp coriander seeds 1 tsp cumin seeds 2 tsp chilli powder 1 tsp sugar Salt [O taste 3-4 tsp oil Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Dry grind the kas111i methi, coriander seeds and cnnun seeds together and make a fine powder.

Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadhai and add the chopped onion and the ginger and garlic. \Xlhen the onions turn translucent, add the chopped capsicums and srir well. Now add tl1e tomato sauce and the dry powder. Mix well and add cbe cut babycorn. Add water if needed, cover and simmer rill almost done (abour 1015 ruins). 111e11 add the sugar, salt, chilli powder and the fresh coriander. Simmer for a further five minutes.

• • ••••••••••••••••••••••••• Malai Corn I cup corn kernels 2 bunches fresh 111cthi (fenugreek) leaves

1 cup cream l medium onion chopped 2 tsp crushed garlic Red chilli powder to taste ½ tsp garam masala Salt to taste 2 esp oil.

Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pan and sauce onions rill colourless. Then add fenugreek leaves and cook gently rill the leaves let off their aroma. Then add garlic, red chilli powder and about a cup of water.

Cook brieAy. Then introduce the corn and cook until a chick consistency is obtained. Finally add cream, salt and gararn masala and stir rill combined well.

INDIANLINK

MARCI-I 2012 47

STARSFORETELL

ARIES M ar c h 21 - A pril 19

LIBRA Sep 23 - O c t 22

This month the cards indicate a time for communications with everyone, so you will be busy and also very popular. There are many different plans to travel and t his month you are going to be really busy.

There is a combination of cards showing that you need to be careful with family members and misunderstandings, as you have been feeling ..,_,_,,,..=-= "r"'. very unhappy with certain family members lately. You may be looking at starting something new and prospects are looking good.

TAURUS April 20 - May 20

The cards indicate that you will be looking at choosing a holiday destination this month. You have plans to travel and have some 'me' time. Things are looking good, if you are waiting for news of a promotion. Your love life needs a spring clean and to make things interesting, you need t o start communicating more with each other. There may be a minor operation for one of your friends or a partner t his month, but all will be well.

SCORPIO Oct 23 - Nov 21

The cards show here that your financial situation is getting better, and there is no shortage of money Aow. l-lowever, you have t o be careful about being too generous with your money, as you have a problem and cannot say no. Romantically you will be feeling good and also thinking about a particular person with whom you want to make things permanent. Be careful of spilling the beans with secret s you may be hold ing about someone - hold your tongue.

GEMINI May 21 - June 20

You are like a ball of energy with lots of plans and thoughts this month. You are worried about a love d one who has been showing signs of being distant and not very open with you. You are feeling left out and need to talk to each other. There may be awaited news, about a job in another city. You are looking at a way to start a new life. This month is going t o be full of many changes.

SAGITTARIUS Nov 22 - Dec 21

The card s show that your sex appeal is oozing and you will be like a magnet attracting the opposite sex, but without any problems.

You also have some thoughts about changing your car. You are curre ntly putting a lot of effort int o work and will also be gaining recognition and rewards t his month. You will be thinking of t aking on a new health regime. There is an indication that you need to look at your diet. Take an allergy test.

CANCER June 21 - June 20

The cards show that this mont h your relationship will go through ups and downs. Both of you seem to have some minor misund erstandings: you need to look at what is causing this. You might have to re-evaluate your behaviour t o keep things flowing smoothly. If you are strong you will keep things together; if not you will break up. Money is coming in but you have some expenses to deal with. l-lealth is okay, but take care of your back.

CAPRICORN Dec 22 - Jan 19

You have been working quite hard lat ely and t he cards indicate a need to take it easy. Take some time out and just relax. Be careful and don't keep taking what your boss may be expecting from you.

You need to learn to stand up for yourself, otherwise you will be working 24 hours a d ay. The re may be a romantic liaison at work, so watch out as it could end in upsets. Also, be careful of arguments with people.

LEO July 23 - A ug 22 The cards indicate that you have some jealousy around you in regards to your love life or its progress. Be pat ient, as you are feeling the pressure in work and life. Be clear in your mind as t o what you would like to do, as you are being urged to make some firm choices. There are some work issues that need to be addressed. You should t ake t ime to eat well and do not indulge in alcohol or nicot ine.

VIRGO Aug 23 - Sep22 The cards indicate that you will be concentrating on your career.

You will be praised a lot at work but you need to decid e what you want t o do, as you have itchy feet to change jobs. You will be thinking of going to anot her city or stat e. You have some paperwork to deal with, things you have been putting off for some time. You will be making some investments and looking at ways to make your money go further.

The cards indicat e ne w opportunities around work with new plans and more challenges knocking on your door. You need to be able to communicat e what you want to your superiors. A long-term relationship is in trouble, and you need patience and a clear mind to work through these problems. There will be some major revelations after the 24th. The health of an older member of the family will also be a concern. l-lowever, try to keep your stress levels down.

AQUARIUS Ja n 20 - !=eb 18 '

The cards indicate that your love life will be going through a whirlwind this month. Sit down with your lover and ask some serious questions about what they wanl There seems to be a feeling of instabilit y around work, as you are not getting what you deserve. There are plans to take up a hobby, you are looking for some excitement and fun, but need to relax. Time to st art meeting up with friend s and getting your social life active again.

PISCES !=eb 19 - March 20 The cards indicate a time for refurbishing your house or flat.. You will b e thinking of home improvement projects. Your job needs attention as you are not in the mood to work lately, and you could have major problems with your boss and colleagues. You have lost interest in your current role. Take time out to decide where you want to be. Life is not great with your lover as you are getting mixed signals. Talk and clear the air.

FICTION

The 'over' never ends With a new debut begins a new understanding and the promise of a better future, once again

he fence creaked as he leaned forward and put his weight on it. He was a spectator now, having Jong retired frorn the game.

He had a seat in the members' stand, but a group of friends had come to watch and he had chosen to sit with them. TI1e excitement grew in the stands. The ross had decided which country would bat first, and his son was going to make his 'debut' as an international cricketer. His son, not yet nineteen, was already showing the signs of becoming a world champion. Yes, it was a proud moment - a father seeing his son stepping into his foocsteps and already doing a better job.

He rurned cowards the pavilion as a movement caught his eye.

His son had just stepped ooco the ground. He knew how his son would be feeling. The heart would be racing. The anticipation would be at it~ highest, and the hope of success would be all pervading.

The walk to the pitch was a walk towards personal victories and it was always welcomed. le was the walk back that everyone dreaded, for it brought \\~th it the ending to that day's dream.

Suddenly his son stopped and looked directly at him; then he raised his bat in the air and lowered it in front of his dad. Misty-eyed, he renu:ned the salute. \'v'hacever happened, as far as he was concerned, his son had already won!

The opposition was already strategically placed around the ground. His son moved ro stand i.n front of the wicket. It was a sign that the game would shortly begin.

He moved back and cook a seat. It was tl1en that he saw her.

Standing behind a column with her back ro him, she stood looking towards me pitch. No, not the ground! She was watching his son.

He saw red. How dare she come to ruin the most import.111t day iu his son's life! Did she not realise the damage she had already done?

He got up and began a slow walk cowards me lady. As each step brought him closer to the woman, he began to debate about the wisdom of a meeting but just as he was about to rurn back, the lady seemed to sense his presence and looked at hiu1. Botl1 stilled. Ten years seemed ro Ay away. The hurt and me ache seemed to bury itself.

All he now felt was the pain of watching his wife in tears.

"Go back Jay, he will look for

T

INDIAN LINK

you in tl1e stand." Her first words bad tl1e same effect as a bucket of iced water.

Listead of complying with her request, Jay moved closer. "For the next over, his eyes will be on tl1e ball and l only need tlrnt much time to ask you a question." "\X'here have l beenJ Is that what you wish to have answered?" she asked.

"No. I jusc want to know why you have rerurned;' he said. "l never left, Jay," she answered.

"Never left? Ten years ago, you wall{ed away. You left your home, your husband and yom child.

You gave no reasons and you left no contact numbers. Is that not leaving?" he cm in.

The over had ended and tl1e wicket keeper was changing ends.

Jay looked toward me crease just as his wife hid herself behind the column. He would ha,;,e to wait until his son faced tl1e other way before he could continue the conversation.

"So why did you?" he asked.

"Because anotl1e.r, had become more important," she replied.

"No woman has ever been more important tl1an you. You and my son were everything to me," he barked.

"Yes, tl1ere was us, and tl1en tl1ere was your cricket."

"CRICKET! You left because of my game?" he questioned her i.n disbelief.

'Jay, maybe the fault was mine ro have underestimated your commitment to the game or to have expected more tl1an what you were willing ro give. \Xfhen we marriec~ I saw only me glamour and fame that came with your success," she said, adding, "I even enjoyed it. Bur no wife should be expected to give up so much of herself to make her husband whole.

I watched you take part in 'tl1ose bonding sessions' when you and the tean1 would lock yourselves away before each gan1e. I silently waited at home while you spent montl1s away on tours. I held our baby night after night as he burned with temperature, o nly to see your phoro splashed across the morning paper wim a woman's arm around your neck. 1 saw your name linked time after rin1e, wicb woman after woman. I cried lonely tears while you boasted to the press, of your love for cricket 1 took calls from strangers wbo spoke of familiarity. l shared your worry at selection time and I hurt when success walked away at intervals. 1 heard you moan when the game went badly. l rejoiced when your team won. And 1 did ir all for love but nm once did ... " "A love mat did not make it past tl1e fi.rst inning," he cut in binerly.

"My love survived many games Jay, it was just not able ro survive the doosra," she responded. '''iXTh)' did you not speak up earlier? I tl1ought tllis was what we both wanted," he now spoke in a gentler tone. "\'v'ould you have given up cricket?" she questioned.

"Have I played since you left?" he gueried in ren1rn and men watched as his wife broke down and cried.

His arms autornaticall)7 reached out to comfort her, surprising even him.

"Six!" someone shouted. Jay and his wife looked up to see their son lift his bar in acknowledgement to che cheering. ''\'(!hat now?" be asked fearfully.

"Now? It is tin1e for me to give in to this sport," she smiled back. "l have always loved you," he whispered.

"But l have always loved you more;' she replied.

"How can you say tliat?" he asked in surprise, for wasn't ir she who had left birn? Hirn and their child!

"I left you your son., and I silently watcl1ed as you made him into a cricketer."

•

••.•••.•

MARTIMONIALS

SEEKING GROOMS Well-settled professional alliance invited from Australia/

Seeking suitable Punjabi Brahm in match for 1972 born

India for40/165 unmarried charming Punjabi Khatri girl,

(looks younger), divorced, issueless registered nu rse

family oriented and responsible, IT professional, working

currently in India. Groom preferably between the age of

in Sydney. Australian citizen. Early marriage. Can relocate.

35--40, Hindu vegetarian, non smoker, non drinker. Only

Serious proposals only. Email profile with recent photo:

serious persons contact on nitishsharma_18@ya hoo.com

sydgirl09@gmail.com

SEEKING BRIDES Seeking suitable match fro m Australia preferably PR/

Seeking Hindu girl, preferably Gujarati, good family values,

citizen, student can be considered as well, for Hindu /

for my son, dob: 7/8/75, d ivorced, no children, fair, 5'8~

Punjabi Khatri girl pharmacist, B.SC medical, S'S", '84 born,

vegetarian, down to earth, genuine, wel~built, non-smoker,

slim and fair, living and working in India (Punjab). Brother

light drinker, Australian citizen, tax consult ant, lives with

well-settled in Melbourne. Parents in India. Contact

parents. Contact 0423 328 800 or sydau714@hotmail.com

Abhishek Seth on 0433 322 666 or email seth.abhishek@yahoo.com

Compat ible match for 1975 born, clean shaven Sikh Khatri boy, 5'9: two Post-Graduate degrees from India and

Well-settled Hindu family in Sydney seeks a mature,

recently finished Masters in IT from Australia. Currently on

well settled, good natured, professional boy from a

temporary resident visa (with f ull work rights) and doing

cultured family for our charming daughter, '79 born, 5'2~ IT

3 months Internship at Optus Sydney. Living wit h elder

professional (Masters IT). Caste no bar. Please respond w ith

brother (Australian citizen) and parents, who are on a

photo and particulars to sssvjp@hotmail.com

1-year visitor visa. Girl should be tall, well educated with

Seeking qualified Gujarati match for sister, 5'1 ~ 28 years,

Early marriage and serious proposals please.

vegetarian, B.E. (Electronics & Communication), working

Contact 02 9476 4570

with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) at Vadodara, Gujarat.

ema ii: j as_ghai01 @hotmail.com

pleasing personality and must be from Sikh background.

Email profile w ith recent photos on kunalshah@y7mai1.com or call 0433 255 228. Serious proposals only. Well cultured

Seeking a suitable match with Indian values for

and well to do family.

27-year-old, 5'6'; Punjabi Khatri boy, Permanent Resident,

Seeking well-qualified match for very fair, young looking

sunaina_aqua1@yahoo.com or call 0421 959 861.

permanent job, parents in Australia for visit. Please email

Hindu lady, 54, veg, divorced, daughter living with her. He must be aged 49-55, non smoker with strong moral values.

Seeking Hindu/Buddhist girl from Ball, Fiji, India, Nepal

Contact lifepartner@hotmail.com.au or call 0404 043 904.

,Sri Lanka or anywhere else for 29-year-old, 6 ft., handsome

Suitable well-settled, professional match for Punjabi

educated working girl, with strong family and cult ural

Hindu boy, working in Health Services. Looking for

Arora girl, beautifu l, never married, 38/165, qualified IT

values. Teacher, health service worker preferable but not

professional. GSOH w ith good family values. Brought up

necessary. Serious proposals only with a view t o marriage

in India. Working in MNC Sydney. Australian citizen. Early

and building a family. Please send photos

marriage. Serious enquiries only. Email details with photo:

and correspondence to P.O.CP Box 343,

ausgirl101@gmail.com

Condell Park, NSW, 2200.

MARCI-I 2012 49

ENTERTAINMENT

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ABHILASHA SENGUPTA brings us up-to-date on what's hot and happening in Bollywood

Marriage and movie don't mix!

Bollywood's newlyweds Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia D'Souza are going blue in the face denying that the success of their film Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya had anything to do with their marriage.

Lately the grapevine has been sizzling with stories that the film was a success built on the buzz created by their recent marriage. However, the couple insist that it's the team's hard work, not strategic timing that's responsible for the film's success.

"We have done two films together: Tujhe Meri Kasam which initially did not do well but is still being shown in many towns, and Masti which was a commercial success. So, our marriage has no connection to the success of our recent film;· said Riteish, somewhat confusingly.

"I would love to give the credit to the makers of the film, the director of the film and the film itself for being nice and hence appreciated;'he added.

Riteish and Genelia tied the knot on February 3, ahead of the film's release on February 24. Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya set the box office cash registers ringing, and received a thumbs-up from the critics as well.

"This film is special because maybe both of us have grown as actors;' said Riteish, also emphasising that the couple shared good chemistry on screen.

Well, whatever the formula for success, the happy couple couldn't have received a better wedding gift! Good luck to them ...

Anupam's Marathi debut a tribute to the blind Anupam Kher is an actor with a vast and intensely interesting repertoire of roles, but his role of playing a visually challenged person in his Marathi debut Chhodo Kai Ki Baatein wasn't easy for the veteran actor.

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GUESS WHO •

It was, literally, with hazaron khwaishein that this Smita Patil lookalike made her screen debut (And the answer under Caption Contest)

50 MARCM 2012

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• "When you play the role of a physically disabled or differently-abled person, you discover how brilliantly people who are differently-abled live their lives;' the 56-year-old said about the film .

"We see how people who cannot see, fit themselves so well in the scenario.

So, this is a tribute to all the blind. My role is dedicated to al I these people;' he added.

The actor, who has featured in around 400 films in his threedecade-long career, has no qualms in admitting that he faced hardships during the film's shooting.

"Most of the scenes were very difficult. There were scenes where I had to climb mountains as a blind man, and we have done an entire song that we have shot on a mountain and rivers. It was a little difficult;' said Anupam whose recent role in Desi Boyz was vastly different to Chhodo Kai Ki Baatein, which will release in early April.

Anupam will soon be seen in Chaar Din Ki Chandni, and he is also working on Deepa Mehta's Midnights' Children and on the remake of Chashme Buddoor. Anupam's plate may be full, but it's nice to know that the actor still finds some roles truly challenging.

Shekhar Suman's still shaking Actor Shekhar Suman is quite upbeat these days, as he looks forward to donning the director's hat for Helpless, a medical thriller featuring his son Adhyayan in the lead.

"I am looking at starting the shooting in May this year. The film has Adhyayan with Giselli Monteiro. It's a medical thriller;' said Shekhar excitedly.

"Helpless talks about anaesthesia awareness... there are times when a patient is unconscious but can still feel the pain. It is about a guy who undergoes heart transplant, and even under anaesthesia, he can hear everything - a conspiracy - but he can't do anything because his body is paralysed for that moment;' revealed Shekhar unexpectedly giving away most of the plot. How that conspiracy and his helplessness change his life forever is what the story is about''.

But the actor's small screen cult show Movers & Shakers is now back on the small screen, taking humourous digs at topical issues and people. Social activist Anna Hazare is the special guest on the premiere episode of the show, which should be interesting. And the still-youthful looking SO-something actor hopes to give a "red carpet welcome" to all those in news for "engineering scams".

"I think all these people who have recently been involved in scams will be especially welcome on the show, so that we can ask them how did they ever think of such scams... it's amazing how they could think of the ideas. So as a common man, I'd be curious to know;' said Shekhar, typically tongue-in-cheek.

But if there's one thing Shekhar is adamant about, it's the end of his unsuccessful tryst with politics. He recently resigned from the Congress party, and had

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••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• famously lost to fellow actor Shatrugan Sinha of the BJP in 2009.

"No, never again;'was Shekhar's response when asked about his political plans.

Let's hope Shekhar sticks to what he's best at - satire!

CAPTION CONTi;ST

John gives it his all!

John Abraham may look and behave like the Bollywood hunk he is, but when it comes to portraying a character realistically, the actor gives the role his all, and more. Take for instance his recent role in Shootout At Wada/a, in which John plays Manya Surve, the notorious gangster who was shot dead by the Mumbai police in 1982. The movie was inspired by the real life incident, and John said, "I can honestly say that I have put in every kind of effort to study this character, to work on the way he supposedly behaved. In fact, me and Sanjay (Gupta) went and met the people who knew him to find out how Manya Surve behaved and the way he spoke.

There was even talk about the 39-yearold actor learning Marathi, but the idea was to understand the colloquial nature of the language and how Manya Surve the gangster was in everyday life, so John didn't have to stretch authenticity to quite that level. "As an actor I have really given all my effort and worked really hard to do maximum research towards this film;' said John who plays the central character in the film which also features Anil Kapoor, Kangna Ranaut, Sanjay Dutt, Tusshar Kapoor, Sonu Sood, Mahesh Manjrekar, Ronit Roy and Manoj Bajpai. John was last seen in Desi Boyz, so will he come out tops in Shootout At Wada/a?

Let's wait and see ....

What's the chitchat between Akshay Kumar and Anushka Sharma here?

Send in your responses to info@indianlink.com.au and win a surprise prize

RGV smitten by Nathalia Ram Gopal Varma can't seem to get in enough praise for Nathalia Kaur, the Brazilian model of Indian descent, who recently featured in an item song for his movie, Department. RGV admits he initially approached Indian Canadian porn star Sunny Leone for the same item song, but things didn't work out and the song went to Nathalia instead. The filmmaker is in awe of the Brazilian model of Indian descent.

"I never ever hid the fact that I am a devotee of a woman's beauty. But not only in my entire career, but never even ever since I have consciously come of a mental and a physical age to perceive and admire the beauty of a woman, have I seen a woman more beautiful than Nathalia;'he said.

"Her beauty is truly electrifying and it just sparks out from every nook and curve of both her face and her body. Her face looks so classically beautiful and her body literally looks like the perfect embodiment of an ultimate female figure;' RGV raved fanatically, raising quite a few well-shaped eyebrows in Bollywood.

So it's hardly surprising that after being smitten by Nathalia's performance in the item number, he's now offered her a role in a romantic action thriller, also featuring Rana Daggubati.

"Only because I saw first hand how good Nathalia is in dancing and in her

ability to emote in the item song, did I see her potential as an actress;• he stated on Twitter.

From dancing to Dan dan in Department to starring opposite Rana Daggubati, it hasn't been that big a step for Nathalia.

A penny for porn star Sunny Leone's thoughts ....

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ENTERTAINMENT . .........................................................................................................................

Fl LM: Jodi Breakers CAST: R. Madhavan, Bipasha Basu, Dipannati Sharma, Milind Soman, Helen DIRECTOR: Ashwini Chowdhary

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Palpable but understated chemistry

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love stories are Just so sweet, more so, when real life couples roma nee on reel. Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya is one of those.

No extraordinary story, no unique formula, no major histrionics, yet, this romantic-comedy entertains and touches your heart.

Mini (Genelia D'Souza) is an educated, fun-loving daughter of businessman, Bhatti (Tinnu Anand), who wants to marry her off to a richjaat, Sunny, who in turn wants the permit Mini holds as his entry into "Caneda" aka Canada.

But the feisty Mini, who loves life and adventure, will have none of that.

Viren (Riteish Deshmukh), who drives Bhatti's rickshaw, is a simpleton with dreams of starting a travel agency with a fleet of cars for which he is painstakingly saving money.

Bhatti sells off all his rickshaws one day with Viren's savings of Rs.60,000 in it. Egged on by his friends to drown his sorrows, Viren guzzles a few drinks and in a drunken stupor lands up at Bhatti's doorstep demanding his money back, while Mini's engagement is in progress.

An argument ensues and Viren lays his hands on a pistol. In the commotion, Mini seizes the opportunity and forces Viren to kidnap her and makes him drive them off in the waiting vehicle.

The spunky Mini makes a deal with Viren that he will follow her instructions and will demand a ransom of Rs.10 lakh from her father. He can then have his Rs.60,000 and she will keep the rest as she does not want to go back home and marry.

While the ransom letter goes to Mini's father, the couple enter into someone's home and try t o make ends meet. In the process,

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ome films are meant to run that extra mile to go beyond being a mere cinematic experience. As we see names of real-life athletes who died unsung flash across the screen at the end of Paan Singh Tamar we realize what we've just witnessed in the past 190 minutes of taut playing-time is not just film. It's a treatise on what destiny has in store for people who do not conform to socially..,, acceptable definitions of success.

Indeed lrrfan Khan as Paan Singh Tamar typifies that criminal neglect of all athletes in rur country barring cricketers who, as we all know by now, are grossly overrated.

Toma r was a steeplechase runner. Not that it made any difference to his destiny.

In the army for the long innings Tamar, we are told, took voluntary retirement to look after his family and land in his native village.

This is where Dhulia's riveting screenplay, where not a moment is squandered in self-indulgent editing, gets truly astounding. Abandoning the manageable hurdles of the steeplechase Tamar took to the gun to avenge the wrong done to his family. i,a.

There ar~ hurdles, and hurdles - some impossi~e to overcome.

The two lives of Paan Singh Tamar, in the army as a celebrated sportsperson and outlaw on the run in the Chambal valley are brought together in a stirring '" bind ofthe brilliant and the haunting.

While Dhulia's earlier works suffered for the lack of a suitable budget Paan Singh Tomar is technically a polished piece of

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cinema with the editing (Aarti Bajaj) and background score (Sandeep Chowta) adding a dimension beyond the drama of the driven athlete.

The film is shot by cinematographer Aseem Mishra with an intriguing blend of a bleeding authenticity and a poetic resplendence. Indeed, Tigmanshu Dhulia's training as a racounteur of a tale of social injustice and damnifying outlawry, harks back to the director's association with Shekhar Kapoor's Bandit Queen.

In portraying Paan Singh's leap from celebrated athlete to wanted bandit, Dhulia avoids the ostentatious brutality of the circumstances that made Phoolan Devi a social outcast. Paan Singh Tamar has very little on-screen violence. It's the heart that bleeds profusely and invisibly in almost every frame.

The unspoken question, why do we treat our athletes so shabbily, trails the narrative, as does the other larger question of social inequality and the subversion of law.

Unlike other films with a strong social message Paan Singh Tamar never stops being a truly liberating cinematic experience. Of course much of the credit for the film's sledgehammer effect goes to lrrfan Khan's central performance. As Paan Singh lrrfan is in one word, flawless. There is not a single shot in the film that he gets wrong. He follows his character's destiny with an intuitive alertness that leaves no room'for ambiguity in the i11'1:erpretation of the character's complex lifi. And (t's not just about getting the character'~

spoi;

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they fall in love and are happy being with each other.

The story takes a twist when Mini's fiance along with her father comes to pay the ransom amount but actually fools them and starts firing, hoping to take Mini back.

Suddenly, Mini and Viren are kidnapped by another person and taken away to the Chowdhary's haveli.

Chowdhary (Om Puri) is a notorious kidnapping kingpin, who makes a living out of demanding ransom. Just when you think Puri is a villain of sorts and some never-ending torture drama a la 1980s Hindi films, will unfold, we discover that Viren alias "Chotu" is Om Puri and Smita Jayakar's son.

Disapproving of his father's ways, Viren has left home six years ago to work in Patiala as a rickshaw driver.

Follow your heart and not your head when you watch this comedy directed by debutant Mandeep Kumar.

The sincere effort to make a light hearted, fun, love story shines through.

Genelia as the spirited Mini is adorable and delivers an energetic performance. She looks fresh, gorgeous and does full justice to Mini's insanities and pranks. Riteish plays Viren to the hilt. He is earnest, restrained, but you have seen him do this before.

The duo lights up the screen with their palpable, but understated chemistry. Tinnu Anand and Om Puri expectedly deliver good performances.

Sachin Jigar's music compliments the film. Main vaari janwa tugs at your heart strings. The title song Tere naal also brings out the flavour of the film.

However, Veena Malik's item number- Fan ban gayi-fails to elicit whistles or fans.

Cinematographer Chirantan Das impresses by beautifully capturing wonderful locales in rural Punjab and scenic Himachal Pradesh.

Enjoy watching a sweet love story with the now Mr and Mrs Deshmukh as t he lead pair. Trust me, it is entertaining enough.

Khans of our cinema kindly watch lrrfan's performance?

The beauty of watching lrrfan transform into Tamar is the seamless leap the actor takes into the character. lrrfan is blessed with first-rate supporting actors, many of whom we haven't seen much on screen before. They add to the film's high level of authenticity by just not looking like and speaking their lines like actors.

The scenes showing lrrfan running with other actors are beautifully captured as moments of metaphorical significance.

Somewhere down the line the scenes showing Tamar jumping over hurdles on the race track merge into the larger picture to tell us, life on field and life outside the race track have one thing in common. You have to keep running, no matter what the

odds.

Paan Singh Tamar is a terrific edge--of·the-seat entertainer. The synthessis of two

Troy Ribeiro

genres - the sports film and the dacoit drama - is done with such confident ingenuity that we hardly realize when one ends, the other "No one gave a damn about me

country. Today when I'm a

baaghi (rebel) everyone wants to know about Paan SinghTomar;'lrrrfan says " caustically.

Hopefully after this film we'd learn to care for our unsung heroes a bit more.

Oh yes, a word on the stunning soundtrack. From snatches of old Lata Mangeshkar melodies to radio announcements on Nargis Dutt's demise, time passages are achieved through incidental snatches of voices caught in mid-air.

Life's life that. You never know what you will experience in that raga we call existenee until a snatch of a lin~ hits you from a distance.

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Subhash K.Jha

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BACKCHAT

Fuel Frenzy Female emergency situations are dauntingly different when you step into a predominantly male domain, UZMA BEG discovers on't know if it's a subcontinental thing or the case with women everywhere... or just an Uzma thing... bm d1ere are some things we gi rls can do and oiliers that just don't seem to come naturaUy. Jvfen seem to be naruraUy wired to do certain things, ,vhile women do o thers to perfection. l o offence to any of d1e sexes but there seems to be a bit of "bis" and "hers" going on in daily life. The whole hunter/gatherer mumbo-jumbo makes a lot of • I sense sometimes.

I have a million and a half such " his" and " her'' moments in my life which, if no dting else, provide some comic relief later when d1e frustrating part is over!

Coming from a reasonably weUto-do family in Pakistan, l had led a very sheltered life. \'v'hen I anived here 1 had never seen the face of a bill and wouldn't have known what to do if one hir me in the face. I had never cooked or cleaned, never parked my own car or filled fuel in it (what are drivers for?), never washed a dish or used a dishwasher.

I was a blissfully ignorant laundry and fuel- filling virgin!

The laundry pare sorted itself our soon after my arrival, bur despite my h usband teaching me how to, 1 had never tilled fuel in d1e car...weU, nor until recently anyway.

Ir was a regular morning, the usual mad dash to school, breaking my neck ro get my daughter there on time! I drove off in a frenzy, breadting only when I sropped ar the first traffic light. I looked down and saw d1e fuel gauge light blinking frantically ar me. I looked again ... could it reaUy be? There was no fuel in die car? And then it aJ1 came rushing back ro me like a bad allergy - my hubby bad said mat there was no fuel in the car me day before when we were driv ing around wiili d1e fuel gauge light on all day. He'd said he'd fiU it up, could he reaUy have forgoaen? A feeling of panic engulfed me and I had to find our whar was going on. I called him as soon as I hit the second traffic light. I was so hysterical he d1ought I'd run someone over!

Complete hysreria took over when I found out diat he'd actually forgotten to put fuel in the car the night before. My daughter's school is about a 30-minute drive

54 MARCI-I 2012

from my house, I wasn't even halfway to there and we'd alread y been driving around on an empty tank for a whole day - which meant there was probably nothing .left in ilie reserve tank either!

I drove the en tire way sitting at die edge of my sear waiting for me car to stop at any m inute.

Throughout me 1niserable journey 1 kept trying to figure our my " plan B" in case me car stopped.

There wasn't a minute to spare; I was already going to bear the school beU by the skin of my teeth and there was no way 1 could cake a diversion to get fuel.

"Get fueL..oh Lord, who's going to get fuel for me?!" was aJ1 I kept thinking as I flew us to school.

I managed to get my daughter there o n time and made another hysterical "How could you do this to me" call ro my husband.

I arrived ar the fuel pump looking like a ghost! Hell, in Pakistan even d1e men don't fiU up their own cars, d1e fuel pump attendants do! I remembered my hubby mentioning in passing once that our car takes diesel only - so l went to the pump thar had diesel. I stopped the car and stumbled out clumsily, feeling completely out o f place and very conscious mar normal people might be staring at me.

I went around to where me nozzle is and realized that I had parked too far ahead of the pump, and me nozzle wouldn't stretcl1 to the car. So I unlocked the car, gor back into it and reversed. Got out to find I had reversed too much and the nozzle still wouldn't reach he car! So back in I went and drove it forward just a wee bit. l gor our a third time and discovered my hard work had paid off. My car was finally in place!

I tried to yank the nozzle om o f the pump but ir seemed robe stuck, so I yan.1,ed and yanked till ir finaJ.ly came free. \X/ith the nozzle in one hand I tried to open the fuel tank inlet, b ut it had no lever wid1 which ro pull it open. l pushed it, tapped ir, even tried knocking ro see if it would respond but... nodling! I d1en proceeded ro return the nozzle co the pump and went back into the car to investigate how to open the fuel rank! l felt around for a good 15 1ninu tes! ! looked under the steering wheel, around d1e gear box, near d1e drivers seat, w1der the driver's seat,

on the steering wheel, near the dashboard, but for the life of me I couldn't find anything that would open d1e fuel t,'lnk. l opened a few other things in d1e process, but definitely not the fuel tank. l was actually at my wits' end when I spotted a small lever o n the car door. I pulled it in desperation and heard a popping sound! I rushed outside and ro my utter joy, I saw the little fuel tank window open!

I quickly locked d1e car for me fourth ti.me and went back to my business.

The n ozzle seemed ro be stuck again because I yanked for ages bur it wou.ldn't come our o f the pump. l finally d1ought that it had been "locked" by the "fuel pump people" so I went inside ro ask why mey bad locked the pump's nozzle and how o n earth was I supposed to fill diesel in my car witho ut a nozzle? A very pretty faclian .looking lady informed me mat she didn't know what rhe hell l was talking about! I ran back to d1e car in frustration and yanked again and again and again and after what seemed like the huncl.redtl1 yank, the nozzle finaUy dislodged and fuel sprouted out of ir, flying aJ1 over my car, myself amd basicaUy everywhere bur inside the fuel tank. I felr like Mr. Bean!

Once 1'd got the nozzle in me rank l fi.Ued away very confused as to how much I needed to fill

and how I would know when ro stop, all the while cursing my poor hubby for purring me in t his ridiculous situation. \"Xlhen it was all over I asked d1e guy behind me ,vh~) was tearing his eyes om in frustration to take a photograph of me so that I could capn1re my triumph to prove to aU and sundry d1at "I did it"! I think mat might have been me o nl y time I smiled in the entire hour chat J was mere ...for tl1e photo. I may have ended up with permanent frown lines from this gruelling process!

I hope no one lit a march around that area after I left because there was a lot of fuel everywhere, not to mention myself as f arrived home an hour later, stinking of cliesel. l found a parking spot right outside my house and bumped right .inro my neighbour's car. \Xfhen I heard the thud I pulled out of rhar spot and parked somewhere else. Shaking and sick of my adventures l checked m y neighbour's car to make sure 1 hadn't damaged it ... .relief swept over me when I saw iliac it was fine!

I rang the doorbell co my house and almost exploded when my husband said, "Where have you been and why did you cake so long?"

My respon se to th at is too delicate for the eyes of our refined readers!

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