2012-07 Sydney (1)

FREE Vol. 19 No. 10 (1) • JULY (1) 2012 • www.indianlink.com.au • FORTNIGHTLY

SYDNEY

Aviation Engineer Komal Sangha soars to new heights

g n i m Ai h g i H y Sk Level 24/44 Market St, Sydney 2000 • GPO Box 108, Sydney 2001 • Ph: 18000 15 8 47 • email: info@indianlink.com.au

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EDITORIAL INDIAN LINK PUBLISHER Pawan Luthra EDITOR Rajni Anand Luthra ASSISTANT EDITOR Sheryl Dixit MELBOURNE Preeti Jabbal CONTRIBUTORS Usha Ramanujam Arvind, Ritam Mitra, Raka Mitra, Danielle Mathias, Asha Chand, Dolly Singh Miranda, Anusha Menon, Tim Blight, Noel G deSouza, Mohan Dhall, Devna Luthra, Geeta Khurana, Petra O’Neill, Talia Kaur, Nancy Althea, LP Ayer ADVERTISING MANAGER Vivek Trivedi 02 9262 1766 ADVERTISING ASSISTANT Nitika Sondhi 02 9279 2004 DESIGN 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@indianlink.com.au

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Challenge of the work-life balance BY PAWAN LUTHRA

S

eeing 27-year-old Simon Sheikh, Director of GetUp Australia collapse on national television was somewhat confronting. A panellist on ABC’s Q&A, Sheikh slumped over the table while reaching for a glass of water.

He came to a few seconds later, and was escorted off the set to hospital. It was confirmed later that he was fine, and that the incident was a result of the flu virus but probably also exhaustion after burning the candle from both ends.

Working too hard is possibly something that a lot of us are guilty of. A recent survey on work practices revealed that Australians are working longer hours than ever before, and longer hours than people in many other countries.

Advancements in technology now allow us to be “at work” at all hours of the day. Work is increasingly invading our personal lives, and we are often in work-mode even at off-duty hours.

But is work truly fulfilling us, and at what cost?

In our frenetically-paced world, we are hearing many reports about increasing stress levels, health mishaps at younger ages, and burn-out.

For migrant populations like our own community, the pressure is often doubled. The challenge of settling into the new adopted country comes with its own stresses, especially in the early years. There are new skills that have to be learned fairly quickly off the mark and these might be different for men, women and children. The self-imposed pressure to succeed is also high, so that they can finally claim to have “arrived”.

The necessary family and social support which they are accustomed to back home, is lacking as well, adding further to demands on the individual.

Particularly vulnerable are professionals with a young family.

While mum and dad settle into their new working life, working long hours to make ends meet, they also wish to expose their children to the opportunities available in Australia.

The wide variety of activities in sport, music, creative endeavours, even the “hot housing” options, excites them.

The result, too often, is that migrant Indian families are working hard to live not only the Australian dream, but also to give their families the opportunities which are on offer over here. All this takes its toll.

One other additional burden which the Indian Australians love to take on, is owning the family home. But financial constraints and the desire for a large home takes them to suburbs which may not have the best transport links. Typically, they disregard the ease of transport between work and home, and end up spending long hours in the commute, which adds to their already long days. Perhaps, some practicality and sacrifice here could well assist in long-term health issues.

Perhaps it is time we learnt to negotiate a good work-life balance. Our cultural heritage conditions us to focus on tomorrow. But balancing this with living in the moment can add more to our health and happiness. Quality time with family, restful weekends, holidays, hobbies, all need to become more of a priority The graveyards, it is said, are filled with people who thought things could not go on without them.

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SPIRITUAL Chinmaya Mission events Tue 3 July Guru Poornima festival celebrations, 7.30pm to 9.00pm Sat 7 – Sun 8 July Family camp “Art of Parenting” for adults; “Why God - do we need Him?” for children with Br Gopal Chaitanya Sat 14 – Sun 15 July Teen mini camp “Why do we......?” with Br Gopal Chaitanya Sat 21 – Sun 22 July Youth (CHYK) mini camp “Love is…” with Br Gopal Chaitanya Sat 28 July “Destiny: Who is Incharge?” Talks with Br Gopal Chaitanya, 7.00pm to 9.00pm.

Sanskrit lessons Chinmaya Mission Australia announces a Beginners’ Sanskrit Course. The 10-session course, to be held weekly on Thursday nights, 6.30 pm to 7.30 pm, will involve Alphabet, Vocabulary, Basic Reading, Basic Grammar, Basic Conversation lessons.

Details Br Gopal Chaitanya 02 8850-7400 or 0416 482 149 Durga Oonjal Sun 15 July Sri Om Adisakthi Ashram will celebrate Durga Oonjal (Durga Jhoola) festival at Sri Om Adi Sakthi Ashram, 62, Kurrajong Cresc, Blacktown. Day program 10.00am – 12.30pm;

What’s on

afternoon 2.00pm – 6.30pm.

Details Ashram 02 96764061; Jay Raman 0410 759 906.

Bhagavad Gita classes by SVT Learn Chapters 7 to 13 of the Bhagavad Gita as taught by Sri Vasudevacharya, a senior disciple of Sri Swami Dayananda Saraswati, and a respected Vedanta Guru. Darcy Road Public School Hall, Darcy Road, Wentworthville, 3:00pm to 5:30pm No prior knowledge is required.

The course is in English and all materials will be provided.

The course is free of charge; donations are accepted.

Details at www.srivasudevacharya.org Shree Ram Sharnam society The Shree Ram Sharnam society’s Sydney headquarters are located at 23 Sheba Crescent, South Penrith.

One-hour prayer sessions featuring the recital of the Shree Amritvaani are held daily between 7:30pm and 8:30pm (except Saturday and Sunday when prayers are held from 6pm to 7:15pm) at the Woodcroft Community Centre on 65 Woodcroft Drive.

Children’s classes at GOD The Global Organisation for Divinity announces the start of Gopakuteeram, spiritual educational classes for children aged 4 - 12 years.4.00 pm 5.30 pm at the Crestwood Community Centre, Cnr Crestwood Drive & Chapel Lane, Baulkham Hills. Classes are free for all participating children. Parents can join in the devotional lecture by Sri Deepak Vinodji, kirtans and prayers in another room within the centre during the Gopakuteeram classes. Details Jayashree 02 9620 4676 MISC Personal and Home Protection Sun 22 July The NSW Police Force is presenting a Forum on Personal and Home Protection to be hosted by India Club, 2.00pm – 5.30pm, at the Hills Shire Council Function Room, 129 Showground Road Castle Hill, (Cnr. of Showground and Carrington Road).

Details Shubha Kumar 02 9873-1207 / 0402 257 588.

Hindi studies for high school students Hindi Language is offered by the Saturday School of

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Community Languages – DET at Liverpool Girls High School, Hills Sports High School and Strathfield Girls High School.

This provides opportunities for high school students to study Hindi language to Higher School Certificate levels as it is not available at their day school.

Board of Studies syllabus is followed. The classes are free of charge and are run on Saturdays from 8.30 am to 10.30 am for Years 7 – 10, and 8.30 – 11.45 am for Years 11-12. Enrolment forms can be accessed from the School Principal of the mainstream school of your child or can be downloaded from www. curriculumsupport.education. nsw.gov.au/secondary/ languages/sscl/ Details 02 9886 7505 Saturdaycl-h.School@det.nsw. edu.au FUNDRAISER Vision2020 Walkathon Sun 15 July Sydney-based charity organisation Vision2020 announces a walkathon at the Lane Cove River National Park to raise funds for charity. The walk (Riverside Walking Track) is about 5km from end-to-end and 10km round trip. This is a family event and is suitable

for people of all age groups and physical fitness. It is not a competitive event. People can walk at their own pace.

There is no requirement for participants to walk the full or even a minimum distance. The Walkathon is in support of the following charities: Sri Datta Bal Sevashram (home for healthy children of leprosy patients and the homeless); Nand Gokul (orphanage), and Sandya Deep (old age home for the people - under construction) all three managed by the Swami Vivekanand Kusta Seva Samithi Trust, Gulbarga, Karnataka. Details at www.vision2020.org.au Light for Life Trivia Night Sat 18 Aug Come and enjoy a fun filled night of trivia, with singing and dancing too…

7:00pm for a 7:30pm start, at Don Moore Community Centre, North Rocks.

Tickets: $20 each, includes dinner. The vent is a fundraiser for Lifehouse at RPA, a stateof-the art cancer centre that will incorporate clinical care, research and education into a single organisation. Details Swati Jain 0412 439 596 or swati86@live.com.au

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JULY (1) 2012 7

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR On Gangs of Wasseypur 1 & 2 As part of the Sydney Film Festival’s Focus on India this year, the two-part epic Gangs of Wasseypur screened on the last day of the festival to extremely enthusiastic applause from a mostly non south Asian audience. This is the first film ever to be invited into the festival’s international competition.

It has already been lauded internationally by being invited into the prestigious director’s fortnight at Cannes film festival.

In a nutshell: Peckinpah and Tarantino are reincarnated in one director who remakes The Godfather trilogy in India with an amazing sense of humour and social and political awareness.

The measure of a good film is that one thinks about it long after one has seen it. I have not stopped thinking about it.

The Godfather Trilogy deals with how a person or family becomes entwined in the cycle of crime and violence. It is one of the great achievements of cinema history.

Bertolucci’s 1900 deals with

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the struggle of ordinary people for some autonomy and freedom from oppression. It is also one of the great achievements of cinema history.

Gangs of Wasseypur does both and more. Moreover for an “art” film it is as entertaining as any Bollywood block buster and has great songs!

Most people take the government, police and legal systems for granted.

It seems to have a god given authority and whilst there are corrupt politicians, judges and police, these are seen as the exception rather than the rule. The basis of the authority of the state is rarely questioned: we distract ourselves with arguments over which gang should rule the state, not what powers the state should have.

By tracing the oppression of the people of Bihar from British colonial times to the present day, Gangs of Wasseypur brings into sharper focus the meaning of “authority”. Shortly after the British leave India it becomes clear to the mine workers that their new Indian overlords are worse than the previous foreign ones.

The state, the legal system and the police are largely sidelined in the power struggles of the gangs of Wasseypur.

Where they do feature in the discussion, they are merely tools of which gang lord has them in his pay.

The people of Bihar accept rule by gang lords as a fact. They pay extortion cheerily and willingly in exactly the same way as people pay tax, without thought.

What difference there is between a gang lord and a politician is the sophistication of their manipulative powers. The gang lord uses intimidation and reputation. The politician uses rhetoric and ideology. The politician is merely the better and sneakier liar.

In countries like India, the nexus between the gang lord of two generations ago and the politician of today is clear to thinking people. In the developed world the state has assumed an almost irresistible authority.

But the process is the same. Most people are too busy trying to stay alive to bother much with the machinations of politics. They are resigned to paying extortion (tax) for protection from chaos. It is only when this extortion becomes unbearable or the chaos too disruptive that governments are deposed, by ballot or bullet. Then a new gang of war lords take over, full of promises. And the cycle starts again.

This film deserves a place of honour amongst the great achievements in cinema.

More of Rafi It was a pleasure to read Sunny Cherian’s article on the Mohammed Rafi show that was held in Sydney recently (Indian Link, June-2 2012 issue).

To add to that, it would have been nice if some more songs were included in the show. There are plenty of Rafi numbers that people seem to skip in most shows.

I have never seen anyone singing Nain milakar chain churana, Jaane jigar tu hai hasi, Main kab gaata apne swar main, Unse rippy tippy ho gayi, Tumse kahoon ek baat, Dil tadpe tadpaya etc at any of these staged events.

The shows all present the same songs again and again. Rafi had a very large collection of fine songs and hence it would be nice to hear different songs in different shows.

Renjith Menon Belmont, WA

Riju Ramrakha Glebe, NSW

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JULY (1) 2012 9

COVER STORY

g n i m Ai h g i H y Sk r in aviation e e r a c g in it c ights in an ex e h w e n to s r a sed as she so li a e r is m a e r an’s d A young wom

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BY USHA RAMANUJAM ARVIND

he cutting edge world of aerospace engineering has traditionally been a male dominated bastion but not anymore, as gender stereotypes are being constantly eroded.

Among the newest crop of graduate aviation engineers with sky-high ambitions is a talented Indian Australian youngster Komal Sangha. And her career is already off to a flying start with the Royal Australian Navy, thanks to a Defence University sponsorship.

Lieutenant Sangha was among the few from her batch at Monash University to bag the lucrative sponsorship. She applied for the undergraduate defence sponsorship while in her second year, and after a series of interviews and selection processes, joined the Navy in her third year of Aerospace Engineering.

The sponsorship included the payment of remaining HECS fees and all study material, as well as a salary while studying. In addition the programme also offered work experience opportunities, mentorship and the ongoing support of the defence services infrastructure.

Aviation, Komal emphasised, is a very intense but enjoyable niche field with manifold opportunities 10 JULY (1) 2012

to grow and evolve as an engineer.

“I have always been passionate about all sorts of flying machines; whether an aeroplane, helicopter or even a remote controlled flying contraption,” Komal told Indian Link. “I owe my keen interest to the various trips my family made all over the world since I was a child.”

The 24-year-old, whose eyes light up when talking about aviation, is particularly passionate about rotary wing systems in general and specifically Seahawks.

Having recently spent ten months learning all about the Seahawk as part of her training, Komal has conducted regular maintenance-related investigations, provided recommendations to the command, delivered daily engineering briefs on the aircraft, planned squadron detachments and provided advice on weekly squadron flying priorities.

“The Seahawk,” Komal explains, “is a Sikorsky helicopter operated by the Royal Australian Navy to conduct missions primarily in coordination with the ships. It has been designed to take off and land on pitching and rolling ship decks and to operate effectively in salt-laden environments.”

“The helicopter is fitted with one of the world’s most advanced anti-submarine warfare capability to search and hunt submarines,” she added enthusiastically. It is also capable of transferring troops, winching operations, stores replenishment of ships and day-night search and rescue operations.

“Of course, I am biased

towards the rotary side of aviation, mainly because I have always worked with helicopters since completing my degree,” confessed Komal.

“Helicopters are quite complex systems, and as you start understanding the basics of this machine, it just keeps getting more and more interesting,” she added.

It is this passion for complex rotary systems that prompted Komal to choose the Navy over the other defence forces.

“The opportunity to work with complex machinery really appealed to me. I opted for the Royal Australian Navy because of my strong interest in helicopters and ships. The Navy provides the opportunity to witness the integration of ships and helicopters and I was quite keen to be a part of this experience”.

For Komal, working with real flying machines is very much like a dream come true.

“Although they are quite a sight in the blue skies, a lot of hard work and ground labour goes into each flight. In order to provide a safe flight, maintenance staff spends hours troubleshooting and servicing the aircraft, before it is declared airworthy. The sense of achievement from fixing these machines and seeing them take off into the open skies is a key motivating factor that has literally kept us going on various cold, windy and rainy days,” she revealed.

“The last two years have already been a very steep and enjoyable learning curve for me and I can only see my career going up,” she added happily.

Although Komal has always been passionate bout flying objects, it is quite by accident that

she strayed into this field. Like most other “Indian” teenagers, her sights were initially trained on the medical pathway.

“My parents have always given utmost importance to our education and ensured we got the best,” she explained. “My mother was a pre-medical instructor in India, preparing students for medical entrance exams. Being brought up in a house where ‘medicine’ was the only talked about profession, I had always thought about pursuing health sciences after graduation.”

Her family moved to Australia in April 2003, when young Komal was in Year 11. “Considering I was already a term behind everyone else, I took up seven subjects in Year 11, including biology, chemistry and physics. I also studied Hindi on Saturdays for the duration of VCE”.

The academically motivated student soon transferred to a Selective high school, which she believes, gave her the additional push to perform her best.

“Although I gained the required ENTER score for medicine, I did not get a sufficiently high score in UMAT,” Komal admitted candidly.

“So I joined Physiotherapy with a view of transferring into Medicine after the first semester. This did not work out as planned, as I did not feel passionate about analysing body parts, learning about diseases, etc. That’s when I made a decision to transfer to Aerospace Engineering and joined Monash University as a mid-year entrant.”

Komal of course, had the full backing of her parents when she made the decision to switch careers mid-course and more importantly, join the defence forces. “Quite a few members of my extended family have served or are currently serving in the

Indian defence force; therefore we were always aware of the lifestyle commitments involved,” she said.

So, have there been gender stereotypes to contend with?

“Interestingly, out of a class of 30, we had only five female engineers studying aerospace,” Komal said, adding, “I believe the main reason for such few female numbers is because of a reduced awareness amongst the students.”

According to her, aeronautics is not much different to Mechanical Engineering. “The branch is still evolving and gradually we are seeing more and more females opting for Aerospace Engineering”.

And this is why she has taken on the mantle of brand ambassador. “I have been very lucky to have been offered a tailor made career pathway and I would like to be a role model for many more youngsters, particularly girls, to choose this profession,” stated Komal.

“From my experience, the defence undergraduate scheme has benefitted me in a number of ways. During my university years, my financial requirements were completely covered. This eliminated the need to search for a part time job and helped me focus entirely on my studies,” she emphasised.

“Additionally, I doubt I could have gained such an enormous amount of experience had I taken up a similar kind of job in the civilian world. I enjoy working for the Australian Defence Force as it allows me to contribute to society, while providing me with job security and satisfaction. As I move further in my life, I intend to follow what I am passionate about, which is helping people and contributing to society in whatever way I can.”

Komal Sangha has since visited many schools, motivating students.

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“These days there are various career paths available to school graduates from which they can choose. Regardless of what field they wish to pursue it is vital they research the study requirements, workload and future job opportunities. Those seeking more hands-on experience, prior to a full time commitment to study, should look at apprenticeships and traineeships,” recommends Komal strongly.

“Some institutions also offer mid-year entry to high school graduates who wish to take a break prior to commencing tertiary studies,” she added.

Komal also hopes to inspire migrant kids to diversify their career portfolio.

“It is very easy to get distracted in today’s rat race where competition to perform well is so extreme. It is time for us to divert away from the stereotypical career choices considered suitable for migrant kids. We should start looking at the bigger picture and allow for creativity and progress to stem from everywhere.

Remember, success is not the key to happiness; happiness is the key to success,” she remarks with a far-sightedness that goes beyond her age. She is no doubt inspired

by Gautama Buddha’s sagacious NATIONAL EDITION

words of wisdom: If you love what you’re doing, you will be successful.

Likewise, Komal’s exposure to the Australian Defence Forces has undoubtedly toughened her up physically and mentally. “The initial training phase is structured in such a way to push you way beyond your extremes in order to get the best out of you. Not only does it give you a better awareness of yourself, it motivates you to perform even better,” she commented.

Komal also firmly subscribes to the core defence values of “courage, professionalism, loyalty, integrity, innovation and teamwork”. As a member of the defence force, it is vital to believe in its organisational values and apply them in everything they do. The initial training assists in teaching the significance of these and how they can be incorporated into everyday life.

After completing initial training as an Aerospace Engineer in the Navy, Komal gained a competency certificate (which she explained is equivalent to Graduate status with Engineers Australia). “As a qualified Aerospace Engineer you can be working in a variety of roles ranging from technical to project positions or even in out-of-category jobs such as human resource management,” she explained.

Currently, a trainee Aviation Engineering Officer at 816 Squadron, Komal has been a part of various squadron detachments operating from Perth, Bundaberg and Caloundra.

“I was given the opportunity to experience helicopter operations in the maritime environment during MIDPAC 2011, a joint exercise involving international navies, conducted at Pearl Harbour,” she revealed. “As part of this, I was flown to Hawaii and sailed back to Brisbane on HMAS Sydney.”

While career fulfilment is obviously her top priority now, the fledgling engineer is also aware of the Navy’s family-friendly approach. “I understand that the Navy attempts to assist service families in every possible way.

Members with dependants are given careful consideration with their posting preferences and the Navy endeavours to work towards the satisfaction of its employees, without compromising work requirements,” she described.

Her next posting is to Melbourne as the ship’s Aviation Facilities Engineer, which, she explained, “oversees the appropriateness of aviation facilities on ships to suit our helicopters”.

Komal also hopes to return to Nowra to complete her squadron requirement of two years prior to getting promoted to a Lieutenant Commander. “With the

acquisition of new LHDs and a fleet of helicopters, the navy scene is currently hectic,” said Komal.

“This will open up further exciting opportunities for aerospace engineers with a possibility of sea postings as well.”

Meanwhile, this enterprising young woman has also charted long-term prospects, which include a Masters in Structural Engineering in the UK. Firmly rooted in her strong Indian values and identity, Komal always finds time to visit temples.

“I find that it keeps my sanity under control,” she quipped.

Socialising, exercising and dancing are some of her other interests. Equally passionate about other cultures, particularly their history, cuisine and language, Komal has taken up advanced Italian and is just back from a hectic, but fulfilling trip to this ancient land. Scuba diving is also on the agenda.

But for now Komal is off to Mumbai to attend her friend’s traditional Maharashtrian wedding while her travel diary for next year includes Pakistan and British Columbia.

Lt Komal Sangha is certainly one high flier for whom the sky is the limit.

Detailed information on the Defence University Sponsorship pathway can be accessed at www. defencejobs.gov.au/education/ universitysponsorship/

Clockwise: Sub Lieutenant Komal Sangha Graduating from Initial Officer Training in 2010 (second from right, front row) Ready for take-off With dad Paramjit Singh Sangha

I have been very lucky to have been offered a tailor made career pathway and I would like to be a role model for many more youngsters, particularly girls, to choose this profession.

Komal Sangha

12 JULY (1) 2012

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SPECIALREPORT

Bollywood and Meeting Malaika

T

BY RAKA MITRA

he Sydney Indian Film Festival kicked off its third year on June 24 with the glitz and glamour that has become synonymous with all things Bollywood. This year’s festival aptly titled ‘Bollywood and Beyond’ showcases the best of Bollywood, regional blockbusters and art-house films. Mind Blowing Films has been bringing this magic to us and it just gets better every year, now being dubbed as the largest festival of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.

Having just concluded a successful Melbourne festival, director Mitu Bhowmick Lange was tired but glowing as she embarked upon the Sydney leg of the festival. While she had rounded up top stars Shahid Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra for the Melbourne event, she made up with a high glam quotient for Sydney with the stunning Malaika Arora Khan, and an equally high cerebral element with off-beat film-maker Rituparno Ghosh.

The festival marked its opening ceremony with both special guests.

Malaika graced the red carpet in her usual style, braving the bitter winter chill in a dazzling black lehenga, leaving a positively starstruck audience in her wake. An exclusive premiere screening of Rituparno Ghosh’s Chitrangada at Fox Studio’s Cinema Paris was also well attended by movie buffs. (Ghosh’s other film in the festival, Memories in March, where he stars again but this time with Bollywood’s Deepti Naval and Raima Sen, is an unusual but critically acclaimed film on the bond between a gay protagonist and his dead boyfriend’s mother).

Other films in the festival included the mainstream Kahaani, The Dirty Picture, Don 2, Delhi Belly, Bodyguard, Ishaqzaade, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, Aarakshan, Paan Singh Tomar and I Am Kalaam.

From regional films the line-up included Son of Adam and Urumi (Malayalam), Flying Fish (Tamil/ Sinhalese), Bol (Urdu), Beauty and Brains (Nepalese), Meherjaan (Bengali), Chatrak (Bengali/ Tamil), Laptop (Bengali), Sengadal (Tamil), Babu Band Baaja (Marathi) and offbeat Hindi films Michael and Shabri.

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A hush falls within the room as a beautiful young woman is seen descending the glass elevator at Woolloomoolloo’s Hotel Blu. With just a few hours of sleep after a long plane journey, how she still manages to look the way she does is beyond me! Malaika Arora Khan steps off the elevator and bedazzles all of us with a smile that comes from within.

Welcomes are mumbled as this is her first visit to Sydney, but the real question is, “Will Munni be back for Dabbang 2?”

But we begin with Malaika’s plans for her trip to Sydney: what is she looking forward to seeing and experiencing?

“The Opera House! My son said to me, ‘Mom, make sure you get a picture of the Opera House’, so I have to go there. I hear Bondi Beach is beautiful, but it might be a bit cold at this time of the year. Also, I hear Sydney has good food, so I hope to experience some of that,” says Malaika enthusiastically.

I explain that food is a subject close to my own heart; so what kind of food would Malaika like to taste here? “I’m happy to try anything. I love a good steak…but I won’t try kangaroo! I love spicy food actually; South Indian food is one of my favourites,” she says.

And how does a foodie like you maintain that figure, I have to ask enviously. “I eat everything. I love food but I live a routine, I exercise every day, go to the gym, dance and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

A busy lifestyle as well,” admits Malaika.

How does she balance a tough lifestyle and motherhood, is it challenging? “Well, I am not different to any other woman, really. Yes, I have work and commitments, but most moms do. I have help and support at home as well,” says Malaika candidly.

The actress is involved with a lot of dancing talent shows.

Being a mother of a young child, what does she think the impact of competition is on children of such tender years?

“This is a question that is close to my heart. I have always voiced my concerns regarding children on shows. I personally feel children should be out playing and enjoying their childhood, but then the other side of the story is that it’s just a platform for children to showcase their talent,” says Malaika.

So did she always want to be a Bollywood star? “Actually I always loved dance, and figured I would teach and open a dance school.

But Bollywood happened. I am a qualified child psychologist and was all set to head into that direction. But then some things fell into place and here I am,” she says with an elegant shrug.

And finally, I wait for the answer we’re all hoping to hear.

So, will Munni make a comeback in Dabbang 2? “Well, we are shooting for Dabbang 2 at the moment. So you will just have to wait and watch,” says Malaika with a mysterious smile. Well, some answer is better than no answer at all!

Reinventing an epic

Legend has it that Chitrangada was a princess born to the King of Manipura, and this legend formed the basis of Rabindranath Tagore’s famed Bengali dance drama of the same name. As the only child of the King and heir to the throne, the Princess Chitrangada is trained in martial arts and dresses as a man to presume her responsibilities to guide her kingdom. One day she meets Arjun on a hunting trip and falls in love. Arjun is impressed by her skill and agility but is confused by her feminine masculinity or rather, masculine femininity.

Chitrangada is forlorn as she realises that Arjun can never love her in her current form and goes to find Kamadev, the God of Love. With his help she is born anew as a beautiful woman, but returns to a kingdom in chaos. Their love story is complete when Arjun realises the beautiful woman is none other than the skilled young warrior he met on the hunting expedition.

Rituparno Ghosh’s interpretation of this classic can be described as nothing if not formidable, in his film Chitrangada. He pushes the boundaries of societal stigmas by suggesting that Chitrangada was a man. He resurrects Kamadev as a cosmetic surgeon who performs gender reassignment surgery on Chitrangada. Whilst in the classic tale, Chitrangada was embraced by her Arjun, this tale has a more realistic heartbeat. The movie follows the emotional passage of a man going through such a procedure. It highlights the strains in his relationships

with the people in his life, and takes the audience on a journey of acceptation, realisation and liberation.

When quizzed about his expectations of audience reaction specifically in India, a country still cloistered in the closet when it comes to sexuality, Ghosh responds saying, “There are two types of audience in India. One is more educated and understands the importance of showing such cinema to the masses. And the other is one that will always create a fuss! But I am not worried about them.” Ghosh is quietly confident that his movie will make its mark.

Ghosh laughs when questioned about the intricacies of being the lead actor and director in the movie. “Well, it wasn’t easy and I had to have a lot of faith in my assistant directors. It was also interesting to experience what it’s like being on the other side,” he says with a chuckle.

This tasteful and magnificent interpretation of an epic tale is fitting in its release, acknowledging the 150th birth anniversary of the immortal Tagore.

Short film contest

An integral part of the film festival is the Western Union Short Film Competition which encourages film-makers form India, New Zealand as well as Australia to participate and get their work judged by experts.

This year’s theme was ‘Connections’. This year’s winner is Nielesh Verma from the Sydney Film School, who received accolades from the audience for his movie, Letters Home. The film beautifully encapsulates how, in trying to protect our loved ones from harsh realities, we often treat them as strangers by filtering the messages we send to them.

“The judging panel of this year’s competition comprised of renowned film-makers and producers like Raj Kumar Hirani, Mick Molloy, Kabir Khan and Kunal Kohli,” Mitu said in Melbourne as she announced the winner. “It was difficult for them to pick a winner amongst the brilliant work that was seen this year. The theme of ‘Connections’ was wonderfully explored by all the entrants”.

Contestant Shaun Thomas won from NZ, Soumya Guruprasad from Melbourne and Manjari Makijany from India.

beyond Movie buffs around Sydney experience the best of Indian cinema at Indian Film Festival 2012

Rituparno Ghosh’s interpretation of (Tagore’s) classic can be described as nothing if not formidable, in his film Chitrangada

Clockwise from top left: Mitu Bhowmick Lange, Director of the Indian Film Festival, with Malaika at the opening night Malaika Arora Khan meets Sydney fans Neilesh Verma, winner of the festival’s Short Film Competition Mitu Bhowmick Lange with film-maker Rituparno Ghosh and film critic Adrienne McKibbins Rituparno Ghosh takes questions from the press

communityscene

Sydney to get its own Vedic centre soon

16 JULY (1) 2012

Photos: Raj Sharma

F

rom a handful of students in 2008 to 150 children besides 90 adults, the Sydney Veda Pathashala (SVP) has certainly gone from strength to strength. Today SVP, in conjunction with Bala Samskar Kendra (BSK), is very active all across Sydney, promoting the learning of Sanskrit through Vedic chanting as well as teaching Hindu scripture and values.

Managed by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (World Hindu Council of Australia Inc), the organisation has also established roots in Melbourne and Brisbane recently.

Vedic chanting, an ancient oral tradition is recognised as an intangible global cultural heritage

by UNESCO. The two institutions recently celebrated their annual day with a grand function at the Roselea Community Centre in Beecroft.

After a traditional welcome, children and adults from various schools showed off their newly acquired skills through a series of cultural performances that included Sanskrit skits, reenactments from the epics as well as shloka chanting. SVP president R Subramaniam and BSK Centre coordinator Shilpa Shriram received special volunteer awards from Minister Victor Dominello.

Volunteer teachers were also felicitated on the occasion.

The event was well attended by officials from the Department of Education as well as politicians, members of parliament and local community leaders. Centre coordinators Shubashree Balachander, Rani Sundar and Akila Ramarathinam addressed the gathering and highlighted the achievements of the calendar year.

“Sanskrit Vedic learning is becoming a great phenomenon in our community now. We are thrilled at the outcome,” joint general secretary of VHP Akila Ramarathinam told Indian Link.

“Launched during the first Hindu Conference in 2008, the Veda Pathashala is the first of its kind outside India. Because of much public support, this is going to grow further and become a role model for other countries. Our sincere thanks to NSW Dept of Education and NSW Federation of Community Language Schools for their help and continuous support”, she added.

She also revealed that to cope with increasing demand, SVP soon hopes to construct the pathshala at their own premises in Greystanes.

“We ask the community to donate generously towards this cause”, she stated. “Land has already been purchased and consultations are on for the next stage”.

Currently Veda classes are held at three centres across Sydney, while BSK schools are run at six centres (Hornsby, Baulkham Hills, Toongabbie, Moorebank, Carlingford and Homebush). The Homebush centre which was only launched early this year has already met with great success. Approved by the Department of Education,

the schools follow a structured curriculum, where senior children take regular Sanskrit test and exams.

“We currently have 30 teachers and an equal number of youth volunteers”, Ramarathinam explained. Many teachers have completed the Language certificate course conducted by the department, she added.

As part of the curriculum, the weekend classes teach Sanskrit language, Hindu values and leadership skills. Rudra Japam, Vishnu and Lalitha Sahasranamam, Gita, Ramayana are some of the texts taught at these classes.

The centres have also participated in mainstream events like Clean Up Australia and tree

plantation drives besides running Hindu camps for special needs children.

Significantly, students of SVP took part in the traditional welcome ceremony of the Queen’s Baton Relay in Sydney ahead of the Delhi Commonwealth Games.

Usha Ramanujam Arvind

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JULY (1) 2012 17

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Plus talkback, interviews with Bollywood stars, gupshup, masti, and what’s happening in the community

JULY (1) 2012 19

Youth

Angad in AFL action A young Australian of Indian origin will play for the Rams at the upcoming U/16 National Championships.

A

BY RITAM MITRA

ustralian Rules, commonly referred to as AFL (although this is the name of the competition) originated in Victoria in 1859 as the Victorian Football League. The sport, while extremely popular in Australia, has had a tough time gaining popularity overseas. It is very encouraging then, that a young Australian of Indian origin has been recently selected in the U/16 NSW/ACT Rams side to contest the upcoming NAB AFL U/16 National Championships.

Late last year the AFL hosted the International Cup, which included teams from several nations, including Sweden, Fiji, France and India. While India has AFL programmes in Kerala and West Bengal and the sport is definitely gaining popularity, in Australia, Angad Roy is the first player from an Indian background to represent NSW/ACT at any National Championships.

Angad plays in the centre half-back/forward position, and has been part of the Slater & Gordon Giants Academy for the past three years. Lachlan Buszard, the Academy Manager, sees Angad’s selection in the side as an important step towards a potential career in the AFL. He is one of three young players in the academy from an Indian background.

Speaking about Angad’s selection in the side, Buszard was excited. “It’s a great opportunity for Angad to play against the best young players in Australia and gain an insight into what it’s like to be an AFL player in terms of recovery, game preparation and diet,” he said. “It’s a chance for Angad to test himself and see where he is placed across the national talent pool”.

“The selection of Angad shows the growth of the game in the Western Sydney region, and the multicultural diversity of the Greater Western Sydney area is also represented through his selection,” he added.

Angad also believes his experiences at the academy have been very positive. “The academy has been excellent in developing my game,” he told Indian Link, 20 JULY (1) 2012

“and I have found I have improved a lot not only in terms of my AFL skills, but things like discipline, diet and the way I conduct myself overall.

It also helps to have someone like Ryan Hulihan, who played 200+ games for Carlton, as a coach and mentor to help me understand what I need to improve on and what I need to do if I want to play AFL at the highest level”.

Although Angad attends the Kings School in Parramatta, where the focus is on rugby, he has found no trouble fitting in AFL around his school commitments. “My friends have taken an interest in what I do – not as much the game itself, as I go to a predominantly rugby school, however they have shown more interest than what they had previously shown. My school has been very supportive and gave me an exemption from playing rugby this year so that I could focus more on AFL”.

For this young man, AFL brings with it an altogether different level of challenges to other sports.

“I am drawn to AFL more because of the fact that you have to be good at so many different things, such as kicking, handballing, fitness and pace,” he observed.

You need to have this to be successful and none of it comes without practice. This challenge has provided me with a work ethic not only in AFL, but in most parts of my life”.

And indeed, Angad’s training routine is hectic. Five days of training, along with matches on Sundays, mean Angad is much busier than most other boys his age. “It sometimes takes away from school, but that all comes down to time management,” he noted with maturity. “However, school and AFL go well together as one provides as an escape from the other”.

Much of Angad’s success can be owed to his supportive parents, who introduced him to the sport after falling in love with it upon coming to Australia. “They have probably been the biggest help in terms of where I have gotten today. They don’t miss a game of mine or my brother’s”.

Angad recognises that a future in AFL involves plenty of hard work and an extreme focus.

It’s early days yet – but it has definitely been a fantastic start to his journey.

“It’s a great opportunity for Angad to play against the best young players in Australia and gain an insight into what it’s like to be an AFL player in terms of recovery, game preparation and diet” Lachlan Buszard, Manager, Slater & Gordon Giants Academy

I am drawn to AFL more because of the fact that you have to be good at so many different things, such as kicking, handballing, fitness and pace Angad

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JULY (1) 2012 21

MAINSTREAM

Shattering stereotypes or endorsing them?

The TV show Dumb, drunk and racist reveals some surprisingly honest home truths about the many facets of ‘real’ Australia

I

BY Pawan Luthra

t’s been pretty quiet in the past eighteen months or so on the “Indian students’ issue” that brought diplomatic relations to a head between India and Australia.

Safety measures have been put in place; awareness has increased among the students themselves; rogue agents have been fleshed out who were taking advantage of the system. And while student

22 JULY (1) 2012

numbers may have dwindled, what’s increased is the number of state premiers and federal ministers leading massive trade delegations to India to win back the lost dollar.

So if things are finally beginning to look cordial again, who’s the dumb, drunk, racist who’s raking all the muck up again?

Er, that would have to be Joe Hildebrand, journalist. In fact, that is how he regularly introduces himself to us, ie, once a week, at the start of his TV show called, strangely, just that – Dumb, Drunk and Racist.

The ABC2 series, in which

Hildebrand takes a bunch of Indians around the country to decide for themselves whether Australians are ‘dumb, drunk and racist’, has been a surprise hit. (In fact, such a hit that Hildebrand has not stopped beaming ever since that appearance on Q&A the week his show opened).

Of course if you ask him, as I do, he’ll tell you the show is a success because of the “exceptionally handsome and charming host”. Perhaps he could have taken his shirt off in the Bondi beach scenes…? Pat comes the reply, “We would definitely have been moved up to ABC1

then. Who knows, we could have gone mainstream!”

But seriously, Hildebrand agrees that the success of the show is not only that it helps shatter stereotypes for one audience, but equally, that it strikes a few hometruths for another.

“It is a pretty polarising issue really,” he observes. “On the one side we have a group of people, typically the self hating inner city type, who are convinced that Australians are dumb, drunk and racist; on the other hand, we have those who challenge this assertion and are outraged that this can even be suggested! Somewhere

in between, is the vast majority who are open to looking at this topic and then forming their own views”.

It all started with a news report months ago.

“An American journalist who had worked in an Indian call centre reported that the operators were trained to be aware that Australians are dumb, drunk and racist. That triggered the initial research by the TV production company Cordell Jigsaw, the team behind SBS TV’s Go Back To Where You Came From, to research this idea. They tested the theory and then decided to go for it.

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They invited me to host, and off we went”.

Joe seems a natural fit for the program. As the Opinion editor for News, Joe has never been backward in coming forward with his views on issues which may have more of a slant to the right than to the left.

How did they pick their “guests”?

“We struck it good with the four guests from India, really. We had to find people who thought Australia was a dangerous and hostile place to visit, and so it was a bit of a challenge to get them on the plane, as they were worried about their own safety in Australia, but we were able to convince them. Their families were more nervous actually. I am glad to announce that we have got them back safe and sound to India”.

Radhika, Mahima, Gurmeet and Amer head off to various parts of Australia in Joe’s social experiment. They meet White nationalist protesters at Villawood, confused burqa-bashing artists in Sydney’s Newtown district, hijab-wearing African immigrants in western Sydney, Cronulla lifeguards who fought for peace in the midst of riots, an Aboriginal NATIONAL EDITION

elder in Moree, B&S revelers as well as community-minded mums in Mt. Isa, cattle auctioneers in rural Queensland, a hen’s night party at the Gold Coast, a Pakistani taxi driver, a same sex couple, hostile Aboriginal women, and a host of other interesting people that shape their views on the people of this country and the issues that affect them.

They also meet Indian student Saurabh Sharma, the CCTV footage of whose brutal bashing in a Melbourne train was played incessantly on India’s television screens, sparking outrage across the country.

Of the four, only one, Radhika, had been here before. An educational counsellor, she was here looking to send her daughter to an Australian university, but encountered such racism that she decided to send her to the US instead, and now guides other students away. Amer, a law student, also considered Australia but chose to study at home in India. Mahima, a call-centre worker, frequently encounters racist abuse at work from Australians. Gurmeet, a TV news reader comes with his own set views on Australians.

“They met for the first time

in Delhi,” Joe reveals. “But once the cameras were rolling, they all became very close. In fact, it became like a Big Brother House.

They have all have struck a chord with the viewers. Amer is quite popular; and a lot of guys find Radhika very foxy”.

Their own personalities unfold well in the show. Radhika shines through as someone with a lot of sensitivity; Gurmeet as someone who really wants to change societies; Amir as probably the one who would fit in best given his party-loving nature, and Mahima as one with wide-eyed innocence. All different, each has clever insights into the people and society here.

They ask meaningful questions and seem to want to genuinely understand, which is more than we can say for the bunch of Indian journalists who were brought out here by the Australian government at the height of the students’ crisis.

(Their reports back home failed to enlighten, let alone alleviate anxiety for concerned families).

Mahima is terrified to learn she has to take a train-ride along the same route and at the same time as when Saurabh was attacked (her facial expression suggests it will probably be like the 1947

train that rolled into Delhi station from Lahore carrying nothing but Hindu corpses), but soon she is happy to try her first beer.

Gurmeet is politically aware, but watch his inability to comprehend why a same-sex relationship should seem normal.

Amer loves Sydney Harbour and the fast food outlets and in Melbourne, ‘the most dangerous city in the world for Indians’, wants to walk on the streets at 2 am.

Radhika feels a spiritual connection at Uluru and weeps as an Aboriginal elder describes the Myall Creek Massacre of 1838.

“It was a life changing experience for them all,” Joe reveals. “They were genuinely surprised at what they experienced: at times they were upset and traumatised, other times they were thrilled and screaming with laughter. They were terrified and enthralled, it was an amazing journey for them.”

Equally, it turned out be an eyeopener for him, too.

“I’m sorry to say it turned out quite differently to what we had expected,” he admits. “I had hoped we would be disproving (the stereotype). But I was genuinely surprised at the ambient

racism on the streets of Sydney and Melbourne. The ugly stuff surprised me as people popped out of nowhere with statements of ‘White pride’ or ‘Go back to where you came from’ in an open and aggressive manner. The surprising thing was how often and how unprovoked these statements were… they made me very uncomfortable”.

He continues, “While on one hand there will be lovely people telling the Indians about how wonderful Australia was, some asshole will shout out something nasty and abusive. That just hurt me and made me ashamed.

Especially as I had just come back from India and seen the terrible poverty and extremes over there, and realised how lucky we have it here”.

So, does Joe Hildebrand, well known for his thought provoking pieces in The Daily Telegraph, believe that Australians are dumb, drunk and racist?

“I don’t think we are dumb,” he replies quite decisively. “But we’re probably pretty drunk, and a few of us are quite racist. There are always a few racists in any country but in a country like Australia we need to have a stronger standard to adhere to. We don’t have a war or religious conflicts or even much political extremism; we are an incredibly wealthy country with a strong moral and religious compass and a sophisticated liberal democracy, so I don’t see why we shouldn’t be a more tolerant and welcoming place”.

Would he like to reverse the concept and take a bunch of Aussies to India and shatter their stereotypes?

“Well, I’m thinking along the lines of a show called Smart, Sophisticated and Tolerant, actually….” he laughs in conclusion.

Tune in to Indian Link Radio to listen to a repeat of Pawan Luthra’s full interview with Joe Hildebrand, Sunday 8 July, 9.00pm. Download Indian Link Radio app on your Smartphone.

JULY (1) 2012 23

ARTS

An Aussie girl in Mumbai An aspiring young Aussie wins a chance of a lifetime to star in a Bollywood film

A

BY DANIELLE MATHIAS

s a young child Teigan Lloyd-Evans would sit down with her mum to watch Bollywood films. She never imagined then that she would one day get a chance to be part of the most prolific film industry in the world.

However, the 24-year-old winner of the SBS TV show Bollywood Star has landed a role in a film directed by the legendary Indian film-maker Mahesh Bhatt, and is on her way to a challenging - and hopefully prosperous - Bollywood career.

It was her passion for Bollywood films that made the Gold Coast native decide to audition for Bollywood Star, a reality show that sought Bollywood aspirants in Australia to prove their acting prowess and win a chance to act in a Hindi movie.

“When this opportunity arose, it just felt right,” Teigan told Indian Link. “I could have ignored my interest in this industry, but when you know something feels right, you have to go for it!”

As she got older, Teigan began to see ‘being white’ as being less of an issue in relation to a career in films, despite her Welsh, Danish and Australian backgrounds.

“Why can’t a Caucasian girl be accepted in Bollywood, I said to myself. That just seems ridiculous in this day and age. I believed that with the right help and with persistence… (I could make it).

There was nothing I could foresee that was going to stop me on this journey”.

The most challenging aspect of the competition for this gutsy young lady was being unable to speak Hindi, but she was determined to learn the language.

“A lot of people didn’t believe in me because I don’t speak Hindi,” she revealed. “But as I have tried to tell a lot of people, it is a language.

A lot of people learn a new language every day for different opportunities in life, so why can’t I?” From the histrionics point of view, emotions often hindered rather than helped Teigan throughout the competition. She also said that personal challenges allowed her to relate more closely to Bollywood films. “I think in life you go through phases, and it was such an amazing phase of my life being involved in Bollywood Star. I 24 JULY (1) 2012

was too elated to act with my raw emotion!” revealed Teigan.

“Bollywood films have such raw, undefeatable, intense pain and emotion, it just strikes a chord in me. I come from a very small family which has been torn apart and there is no longer a sense of ‘family’ left. That has always been a huge struggle for me, because I know what it is like to have that beautiful family bond and struggle with the loss of it,” she added.

The last few years have been challenging for Teigan: her parents split up, her relationship broke down, and her beloved dog passed away. She tackled Bollywood Star with newfound determination, and came out with flying colours.

During the competition the six finalists were sent to Mumbai to undergo intense Bollywood training and get an insight into Indian culture. In the fourth episode, Teigan and the other contestants were split up and sent to live with Indian families in the slums of Dharavi for 24 hours. It became an experience Teigan isn’t likely to forget in a hurry.

“Mumbai was crazy! It is a place where you can’t stop watching what is going on around you in case you miss something. Living with my little family for a night taught me so many things about how strong people are, and how happiness is rife in all walks of life no matter how sad or heartbreaking. I don’t think I have ever been so impressed with a community in my life!”

Although living in India is such a stark contrast to the Australian lifestyle, the true blue Aussie never felt homesick.

“Of course, I think the majority of Australians would struggle slightly,” she admitted. “But honestly I was just so happy to be there and absorb this amazing place that it didn’t really get to me.

We are so fortunate in Australia, and whenever I would start to think about this contrast it made me so grateful to be able to experience a place like India so I can grow as a person and expand my knowledge of the world”.

Teigan had a good rapport with all the judges throughout the competition. Indeed, judge Anupam Sharma’s excited mutterings as soon as she walked into that audition, gave it away that we would be seeing more of her in the coming episodes! But Teigan claims it was with Emma Brown Garrett that she bonded most.

“All of the judges helped me immensely. I had a fantastic relationship with Emma - she is such a lovely woman, she wanted

to help us in any way she could,” revealed the young wannabe actress. Emma Brown Garrett is a Caucasian Australian actress working in Bollywood films.

During the competition, Teigan became very close to the other finalists - Gautam “G-Luv” Koul, Sharon Johal and Sarah Roberts.

“I really hold my relationships with the other finalists close to my heart,” said Teigan with disarming candidness. “They are all so beautiful and so individual. There is honestly not a single bad thing that would even cross my mind about any of them. They are stand up people. Anyone who has the chance to know any one of them is a lucky person”.

Although she is now famous for winning Bollywood Star, there is more to Teigan than just that. She applied 3 years ago to be a student paramedic from Queensland, and is currently in training, living two of her dreams at the same time.

“My experiences with Bollywood Star have helped me to be a better, more caring paramedic,” she said.

Teigan’s mother, who not only introduced her to Bollywood but also to Bollywood Star, has been a huge influence in her life and her success. “When I first watched Bollywood, I thought this is just so beautiful, it’s so free, it’s so colourful,” said Teigan’s mother in an interview on SBS. She mother has been very supportive of both Teigan’s career choices.

“My mum would have always rooted for my career as a Bollywood star,” Teigan acknowledged. “She has always said that. I know she is biased because she is my mother, but your mother knows you better than anyone, and she has always wanted me to try this avenue!”

In December this year, Teigan will fly to Mumbai to star in Mahesh Bhatt’s film. “I seriously can’t wait and I am extremely grateful to be able to make a movie with him,” she said enthusiastically.

Teigan described winning Bollywood Star as being the turning point of her life. Through her hard-work, determination and positive attitude, she has made a social impact and has raised the profile of Bollywood in Australia.

“I have been getting a lot of positive feedback since winning the title, mostly from young women who are Caucasian and feel they might be interested in giving the industry a go,” she said.

In terms of what the future holds for her two dreams, Teigan said with a smile, “My life in the next few weeks, months and years is going to have serious time management issues! I will do the best that I can with what time I have, but obviously these are two careers that are both very time consuming. I could never make a choice between either of them as I am extremely passionate about both. Just wish me luck!”

Teigan Lloyd-Evans in the SBS TV show Bollywood Star

Mumbai was crazy!

It is a place where you can’t stop watching what is going on around you in case you miss something.

Teigan Lloyd-Evans

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JULY (1) 2012 25

COMMUNITYSCENE

Peace in our homes

A new project is launched to educate women about domestic violence

By ASHA CHAND

‘Peace in our Homes’ became the resonating mantra at the recent launch of a domestic violence community project aimed at educating women of Fiji Indian background.

Federal member for Fowler, Chris Hayes, while launching the project called for zero tolerance of such violence, citing alarming statistics which represent a 9.5 per cent growth in domestic violence in the Liverpool area.

Mr Hayes said that although this represents an increased awareness among victims who have come forward with the problem, the community needs to make a solid stand in labelling this “wrong, illegal, and something that it can no longer remain quiet about”.

“When we ignore something, it does not go away,” he said.

He noted that the region he represents in Parliament is the most colourful electorate in Australia and he is “so proud of it”. Sadly, the region is also fast becoming the capital of domestic violence and this is a major concern. The project was initiated as a result of concerns expressed by specialist service providers in the Liverpool area. These providers include the Liverpool police, hospital emergency services and other health service industries.

An information sheet provided by the project worker, Usha Raju says, “Local hospital reports from the emergency department indicate an increase in the numbers of Fiji Indian women sustaining significant physical injuries”.

The Fiji Indian community in the Liverpool LGA and surrounding areas is the project’s primary target group. The community represents the largest population growth in the city with a growth rate of 3.2 % while the national average was 0.7% in the 2001-2006 census, Mrs Raju said.

Citing the Liverpool Community Strategy for 2009, Mrs Raju said Hindi ranks third largest as a spoken language in the area.

While the Fiji Indian community was vibrant, loud and colourful, by remaining silent on domestic violence, it was allowing the problem to “become manifest”.

“If a woman is exposed to violence, 50 % chance is that she’ll accept it. Statistics show that 60% 26 JULY (1) 2012

of young boys growing up in such situations are likely to become abusers,” he said.

“We can’t have another generation of society accepting the cycle of domestic violence. If you don’t do anything about it; it is equally bad,’’ Mr Hayes said.

He said one in three women in Australia was subjected to domestic violence at some stage in her life. The sad reality is that many times police (as service providers) do not want to get involved as the two parties “kiss and make up.”

Jai Deo Prasad who operates Radio Madhurima out of Liverpool said kava drinking was the root cause of such problems. Recalling the sufferings and hardship endured by the community during the indenture era, Mr Prasad said the troubles of the past had allowed the community to attach stigma and taboo to such topics.

“These issues were not talked about in the community and were swept under the carpet,” he said later.

Mr Prasad said the girmit (indenture) era of 1869 to 1916 recorded the highest number of suicides in Fiji. During this time, the Indians had nowhere to turn to.

Encouraging the community to openly ‘talk’ about such issues as they are present in every society and community, Mr Prasad said Australia indeed is the lucky country, as living here exposes one to so much knowledge and learning.

“You indeed begin to see things differently and I urge the Fiji Indians to take a stand against this level of violence,” he said.

Mr Prasad, who has lived in New Zealand and Australia for 25 years, and has worked in radio for 36 years, said that he has seen the community evolve into a new generation where women too have become perpetrators of such violence.

“Women are now hitting men ... but the worst hit are children,” he said.

Citing a 2011 report, released this week, on the level of domestic violence in Fiji, Mr Prasad said 80% of women in Fiji have been exposed to this crime.

The Peace in our Homes project is targeting Indian women of Hindi and Urdu speaking backgrounds.

It is an initiative of the Liverpool Women’s Health Centre, Green Valley/Liverpool Domestic Violence Team and the South Western Sydney Health Services.

This month’s event was held at Hilda Davies Senior Citizens Hall at 185 Bigge Street, Liverpool.

Federal member for Fowler, Chris Hayes, noted that the region he represents in Parliament is the most colourful electorate in Australia and he is “so proud of it”.

Sadly, the region is also fast becoming the capital of domestic violence and this is a major concern.

It was attended by more than 80 participants, mostly women of Indian background.

Mrs Raju said domestic violence is not only about having cuts, bruises and broken body parts.

“It is also when another person is controlled emotionally, mentally and financially. Domestic violence also involves verbal and mental abuse, not allowing to practice one’s beliefs, socialising with family, friends and not having the freedom to do what one wants to do rather be told what to do”.

The project aims to create awareness while providing resources to facilitate community discussions and forums on the issues of safety, non-violence, and healthy relationships for peace in our homes in the form of art work.

The drivers of the project are targeting Fiji Indian forums such as temple and Ramayana recital groups, soccer groups as well as other social spaces inhibited

by the Fiji Indian community.

Methods such as consultations, community surveys and focus groups will be used to determine attitudes to and understanding of violence against women, sexual assault and domestic violence.

Community leaders will also be invited to participate in such forums, to be attended by men, women and young adults.

Liverpool Women’s Health Centre manager Betty Green said the project was initiated to give women the capacity to make decisions. Using drawings and expressions was a means to understand the level of pain, frustration, anger and expression of those who have been exposed to domestic violence.

She said a lot had been achieved during the nine months’ duration of the project.

This, however, has allowed those involved to touch only the surface of this sensitive issue, she said.

Federal member for Fowler Chris Hayes with Project Worker Usha Raju and Betty Green, manager, Liverpool Women’s Health Centre.

Methods such as consultations, community surveys and focus groups will be used to determine attitudes to and understanding of violence against women, sexual assault and domestic violence.

Free advice and services for recently arrived migrants in the inner west Ashfield Council provides a range of settlement services to migrants, refugees and humanitarian entrants who have arrived in the last five years and live in the Inner West area.

The service provides information and referrals through telephone and face to face on issues such as education and training, employment, housing, learning English, Centrelink matters, health, family relationship and more.

For more information or to make an appointment for the face to face service, please phone Council on 9716 1800 or email cathyg@ashfield.nsw.gov.au.

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JULY (1) 2012 27

COMMUNITYscene

Gori ke nakhre….

… definitely sone lagde! Yummy mummies gather again at Sakhi Sangam 2012 By DOLLY SINGH MIRANDA

T

he razz-matazz, the frazzledazzle, the jingle jangle.

The dazzling colours, the over-size bindis, the bangles, the sequins.

The sexy Sabyasachi sarees, the shimmering Ritu Beri lehangas, the chanya cholis, the glittery duppattas.

It was a riot of colour, with women dressed in the brightest, each looking more divine than the other.

Suffice it to say, the sights and sounds at this year’s Sakhi Sangam completely bedazzled me, a firsttimer. Just as I had heard, I felt as though I had walked into a glam Page 3 event in the Bollywood capital city of Mumbai!

A great concept, Sakhi Sangam (literally, “girlfriends gather”) is a massive girls’ day out: it achieves and fulfills the innate desire in every Indian woman to dress up in traditional glamour, feel beautiful, and be surrounded by the warmth and love of friends. Over 700 women attended the Punchbowl event this year, coming from all parts of Sydney (the Croatian Club here being the largest indoor function centre that can accommodate so many).

As always, the stately Nandini Thadani and the bubbly Sushma Ahluwalia, organisers of the day, welcomed each sakhi (girlfriend) warmly with a little gift. This time round it was a beautiful blue lotus – the international symbol of peace and good fortune.

As I looked around to jot down notes for my “fash file”, I saw the old and the new blending in beautifully, in a typical ode to contemporary India. Traditional jewellery (from the very Indian mangalsutras, nathanis, tikkas in the hair, payals on the ankles) vibed well with more modern amulets, designer chokers and sparkling tattoos!

Kaajal and deep black kohled eyes added depth and mystery; the lips were lush with colour; the hair was combed down or held up in a bun; the bangles shimmered enticingly.

There were women from all walks of life, professional women, corporate women, socialites, restaurateurs, creative types, mums and homemakers, grandmothers, kids, all dressed to the hilt!

It was also very special to see women from outside the Indian community joining their desi friends.

My challenge was to capture in my camera, the nakhras, the adaayeein, the sparkling gaiety and the laughter, symbolizing this marvelous event.

“The Indianess, the opportunity to dress up and spend time in a beautiful setting with my friends is what brings me back each year,” said one of the sakhis.

“I love the way we are treated – almost feels like a big festive Indian wedding – there is so much excitement and anticipation.

I start looking forward to this many weeks in advance,” said another.

“I love the loud music and the mehendi – I feel like I am back in Delhi’s Karol Bagh attending a friend’s sangeet ceremony”.

These and many such similar sentiments are what I heard throughout the event.

The gracious Preeti Thadani and the gorgeous Natasha acted as MCs for the day. Preeti initiated the function by welcoming the divas and giving a little background to the occasion.

The entertainment began with that all-time hit, Kajra re – the beautiful young dancers seemed to be acting out every Indian woman’s fantasy: to be as captivating as the beautiful Aishwarya Rai! Dancer Diya came on to burn the floor channeling every Bollywood ‘item’ girl’s fantasy,

Munni, Sheila and Chikni Chameli.

Clever choices indeed, and perfectly timed too, just as the jokes were beginning to get a bit naughty and the laughter a lot louder!

The final punch came with the latkas and jhatkas of the spunky Jyoti who performed in her trademark style on a list of mast Bollywood songs. Her stage presence, her nakhras and her enthusiasm almost had me jump out of my seat and wriggle my hips wildly along with her, forgetting my camera, my notepad and yes, my inhibitions too!

Sensing the growing restlessness of so many women tapping their feet and dancing in their chairs, the floor was thrown open for the divas.

What a scene: as soon as DJ Dimple started the first song –

Subah Hone Naa De from Desi Boyz – it was like electricity, thunder and lightening in the room! There were almost 500 women on the floor gyrating and twisting to the beats.

Torn between capturing the electric atmosphere and doing a little gyrating myself, I think I safely managed a bit of both.

Lunch was a sumptuous, mouth watering feast, in line with what we have come to expect of the well-known restaurateur Manjit, whose own wife, the polite and friendly Kanwal, has been a sakhi for years: paneer tikka, kachoris and samosas, followed by Punjabi chicken, dahi kadhi, chole pindi, vegetable jalfrezi, rice, an assortment of rotis and salads. The rasmalai at the end added just the right amount of sweet to round it

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Photos: Dolly Singh Miranda, Mary Yuan

all off perfectly.

Afternoon bingo was a cosy affair, with lots of exciting prizes including dinner vouchers at some leading Indian restaurants in Sydney and movie tickets.

Post that, once again the floor was opened to the divas for some dancing!

Meanwhile, Meena Bazaar, that old Mughal tradition where women splurged on trinkets, was on again in full swing: the jewellery stalls, the clothes stalls and the mehndi stalls all did

fantastic business. Sakhis gathered around the stalls – doing what we do best – shop!

What a beautiful, magical day it turned out: dressed to the nines, girlfriends in tow, dancing, feasting and shopping! Life couldn’t be more perfect on a sunny winter’s day in Sydney.

Jab mel ho sakhiyon kaa aur sangam ho dilon kaa , toh phir kyun na ho ooh laa laa, ooh laa laa!!!

It’s adieu to all the sakhis – till next year!

CENSUS 2011

Our community in Indian-origin Australians are the fourth largest migrant group in the country

S

BY USHA RAMANUJAM ARVIND

BS recently launched an interactive online tool featuring demographic data gathered in the 2011 Census, so that Australians can explore the results of the Census data. SBS Census Explorer gives Australians access to some of the most important Census data, bringing it to life in maps, charts and graphs that are interactive and easy to read. Users can compare languages and places and learn more about the makeup of their communities. Information is being progressively added as it becomes available from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).

Indian Link reviewed demographic data released to offer a concise census of information on the Indian community. Here are our findings.

At a glance

• 390,904 Australians of Indian ancestry 30 JULY (1) 2012

• 1.5% or 295,361 were born in India • 200,000 Indians arrived since 2001 • Among fastest growing ethnic groups • 275,500 Hindus (fastest growing religion) • 111,351 Hindi speakers, featuring in top 10 languages spoken • Highest number in 15-64 demographic • 10% new migrants arrived with job in hand • 35% reported difficulty in getting one. Of this, 64% reported lack of experience or references • 23% lack of local contacts • Of 90% of skilled migrants, 87% found a job • 53% in their area of expertise • 92% of skilled migrants reported wages/salary as main source of income • 43% of recent migrants had obtained citizenship • 55% of temporary residents were students.

Student intake peaked at 65,000 in 2008-9 These figures released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics

after unveiling the latest five-year Census only confirms what most already suspect – that skilled migration and international student intake has fuelled a dramatic spurt in the Indian presence down under in the new millennium. From .5 to 1.5% of the Australian population which currently stands at 22.6 million.

The estimated resident population (ERP), a core function of the ABS, is used for a wide variety of purposes including the distribution of Australian Government funds to state, territory and local governments, as well as in the determination of the number of seats for each state and territory in the House of Representatives.

At the 2006 Census 147,106 Australian residents indicated that they were born in India, of which 79,025 held Australian citizenship.

NSW topped the list with 57,156 residents, closely followed by Victoria (52,853) and Western Australia (15,157). 64,968 stated they were Hindu, 49,975 declared they were Christian and 26,500 declared they were Sikh. Other minorities include Muslims and Zoroastrians. 243,722 Australian

residents declared that they had Indian ancestry, either alone or in combination with another ancestry.

The Indian-born community more than doubled between 2004 and 2009 to 308,542, making it the second largest non-Anglo community in Australia after Chinese-born Australians. In 2009 there were an additional 90,000 Indian students studying at Australian tertiary institutions.

Overseas migration

As of 30 June 2010, 27% of the population was born overseas (6.0 million people), third highest in the world behind Singapore and Hong Kong, the lowest being China, India and Vietnam.

While UK and NZ still account for the largest chunks of the pie, India and China have moved up the ladder. 76% of the overseas population in this category was of working age 15-64.

International migration is a volatile phenomenon influenced by a wide range of demographic, social, economic and political determinants and consequences at the global, regional and national level.

In 2009-10, the preliminary

estimate of net overseas migration (NOM) was 215,600 persons, representing 57% of Australia’s population growth for the year.

Victoria and Queensland had the largest inflow.

Between 2000 and 2010, persons born in Nepal had the highest rate of increase in Australia’s population (of the top 50 countries of birth at 30 June 2010), with an average annual growth rate of 29.1%. However, this growth began from a small base of 2,300 persons at 30 June, 2000. Those born in India had third fastest growth after Sudan (13.5%). India also figures in the highest proportion of people in 15-64-age category.

International students

In 2008-09, the net number of international students being added to Australia’s population reached an all time high of 122,400 students, bringing in export earnings of $15.9 billion.

These international students contributed to 27% of Australia’s population growth in 2008-09.

Of these, 45,199 were from India alone, jumping significantly from 9553 in 2004-5. Nepal was third highest at 10,697. Victoria

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numbers

arrived since 2000 and highest demographic is in 25-29 age group. The male female ratio is 60:40. 60% were not Australian citizens. More than half the Punjabi households had one child, while 45.6% lived in rented properties. While heterosexual marriage was generally the norm, .1% admitted to same sex relationship and 1.2% were in de facto partnerships.

Bengali

In 2009-10, the preliminary estimate of net overseas migration (NOM) was 215,600 persons, representing 57% of Australia’s population growth for the year.

had the highest intake at 45.7% followed by NSW at 20%. 55.4% enrolled in VET, while 43.7 were in higher education. Significantly these figures show a sharp decline for September 2010, contributed by drop in arrival and increased departures For 2008-09, there were 324,100 self-reported temporary NOM arrivals who contributed to NOM (see table 3.18). This was 62% of all NOM arrivals with the remainder being permanent arrivals, Australian residents returning and a few from other categories. Of the countries of birth contributing to temporary NOM arrivals, India added the most with 53,900 persons arriving, 60% of India-born arrivals reported education as their main reason for journey, followed by Nepal (59%), and Malaysia (54%).

For those travelling on student visas, people born in India and China were the main contributors to student NOM. Together they contributed around 50% or over for each year between 2004-05 and 2008-09. China was the highest contributor in 2004-05 and 2005-06, at 30% and 26% respectively. People born in India recorded the highest proportion NATIONAL EDITION

of travellers for the period 200607 to 2008-09, increasing from 29% to 35%. In 2008-09, Indiaborn travellers on student visas contributed 14% of total NOM (up from 6% in 2004-05).

Linguistic demographics

We cast a look here at the language-wise break-up of the Indian community in Australia.

The largest linguistic group seems to be Hindi-speaking Indians, followed by Punjabi and then Tamil. But many Indians are multilingual. Speaking to Indian Link at the multicultural briefing, Dr Jill Charker, First Assistant Statistician of the Population, Education and Data Integration Division revealed that there are plans for greater community consultations on the questions which can be asked in the next Census in 2016 which can bring forth more information about the population. For the Indian community, for example, questions which can be put up for consultation can include asking people about the number of languages they speak rather than just a bilingual question.

Hindi

There are 111,351 Hindi speakers (.5%), of which 53% are from India and 29% from Fiji. Most of this demographic arrived since 2000. Of these, the largest concentrations are in Blacktown (NSW) which accounts for 1969, while Point Cook in Victoria, Forest Lake in QLD, Canning Vale (WA) Prospect (SA) have 926, 275, 180 and 113 respectively. The largest demographic is in 25-29 years. 60% have taken Australian citizenship, while 96.8 stated parents born overseas. Hinduism is predominant religion followed

by Islam and Sikhism. Most households had 4 people and owned property with a mortgage. .3% acknowledged being in a same sex relationship.

Punjabi

Representing .3% of population, Punjabi speakers total 71,320 across Australia, with Blacktown in NSW accounting for single highest concentration (1894). St Albans came a close second with 1433 Punjabis. WA’s Canningvale, QLD’s Runcorn and SA’s Prospect were other favourites.

Predominantly Indian born and of Sikh faith (80.9), most

35,645 Bengali speakers in Australia represent .2% of population. NSW suburb of Lakemba recorded highest number (2483). Footscray in Victoria, Forest Lake (QLD), St Marys (SA) and Canningvale in WA topped individual concentrations. Of these 71.9% are from Bangladesh, 9.6 from India. Migration trends have increased phenomenally since 90s.

A majority are Muslims and 58% have taken Australian citizenship

Gujarati

34,211 Gujarati speakers call Australia home, with NSW suburb Parramatta alone accounting for 1310. Darch in WA, Hawthorn in Victoria, South Australian suburb of Prospect and QLD’s Macgregor were the popular suburbs. 75.8% Gujarati Australians were born in India and 5.4% in Kenya. In the last decade, the number rose from 554 to 1570. Most Gujaratis recorded both parents as born overseas.

Majority are not Australian citizens (58.7%), their largest age demographic is 25-28. Most males earned average of $600-800 a week, while most females earned nil. Household income for 18% stood at 78,000-104,000.

Marathi

Marathi Australians numbering 8572 in Australia are predominantly Hindus (90.7%).

A three-person household, comprising a couple with one child is the dominant trend, with 46% paying off a mortgage.

Nearly 18% households earned more than $74,000. 77% Marathi speakers identified themselves as married. Liverpool (NSW), Glen Waverley (Vic), Nundah (Qld, Mawson Lakes (SA) and WA’s Canningvale have the largest numbers in a suburb

Tamil

With over 50,000 speakers, Tamils form the third highest demographic. Of these 39% are from Sri Lanka, while 35% are from India, and Malaysian Tamils account for 15%. 62% have taken Australian citizenship.

Wentworthville in NSW recorded highest number of Tamils (1073), with Glen Waverley (946) coming a close second. Mawson Lakes (SA), WA’s Canningvale and Forest Lake in QLD were popular. Most Tamils had 4 member households, with children under age of 15.

15.5% earned over $74,000 annually and 47.8 % owned property on a mortgage. 69.7% were married, 30% were single and .7% in de facto. Hinduism is key religion, while Catholic came second at 10%. Only 2/3rd were not Australian, while over 98% indicated overseas parentage. The main influx of Tamils has been in late 2000s.

Kannada

Among the dominant ethnic minorities, Parafield Gardens (SA) and Perth suburb of Maylans were predominant choices. The Kannada community is relatively smaller at 5923. The NSW suburb of Liverpool proved most popular, while Victorian Kannadigas chose Dandenong.

In Calamvale in QLD, 91% are Hindus and 84% were born in India. Kannada households typically had 3 people and most families had children under age of 15. 78.3% were registered marriages and .8% in de facto relationship. 17.8% Kannada households had income of $78,000-103,000 annually.

Telugu

Australia is currently home to 18,721 Telugu speakers, most of who were born overseas and half of whom live in rented premises. Westmead in NSW (729), Footscray in Victoria (280), Kenmore (Qld), Mawson Lakes in SA (44), Maylands in WA (60) have largest numbers respectively in one suburb. 58% of the linguistic minority is yet to opt for citizenship and 98.25 have both parents born overseas. Hinduism is the dominant religion. 15% males earned above $74,000 while 34% of females had no income. Single child is the dominant trend.

Malayalam

25,111 is the current number of Malayali speakers across Australia. Dandenong in Victoria (425) and Westmead in Victoria (253) have the highest concentration state-wise, while Annerley in Queensland, Woodville Gardens in South Australia and WA’s Canningvale (193) registered the largest numbers. The largest age demographic for male Malayalam speakers was 30-34 years (16.9%). Since 2000, their numbers have increased from a meagre 246 to 2809, nationwide.

65% are yet to opt for citizenship.

Catholicism is the predominant religion, cornering a sizeable 47% of the demographic. Other faiths include Syrian Orthodox, Pentecostal and Anglican besides Hinduism, of course. 80% are in a traditional marriage, with the average Malayali household having two children. A sizeable 43% live in rented homes, with those having mortgage coming close second at 39%. The largest age demographic is 30-34 years.

For more details, visit www.abs.gov.au JULY (1) 2012 31

32 JULY (1) 2012

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INDIAN NEWS PHOTO: AP

Spectators watch a Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) bout at the FCC (Full Contact Championship) 6 fight night in Mumbai on June 30, 2012. Fight nights are gaining popularity in Mumbai as fighters from all over the country are pitted against competitors who have been ‘cross-trained’ to fight in different styles combining a mix of kick-boxing, judo, wrestling, grappling and other martial art forms.

PM announces Rs.500 crore for flood-hit Assam

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh recently announced an aid package of Rs.500 crore for Assam, which has been severely hit by floods, causing an estimated 65 deaths and inundating large stretches of land, including cropland.

The announcement came after the prime minister and Congress president Sonia Gandhi undertook an aerial survey of some flood affected districts of the state.

“The Rs.500 crore is sanctioned for immediate relief of the state. A central team has reached the state and will start assessing the total damage of the floods in the state and all the required financial assistance will be extended to the state government based on the assessment of the central team,” said the prime minister, while reading out a statement before the media at LGBI International Airport near Guwahati.

According to the state Disaster Management Authority (SDMA), the floods, affecting all 27 districts of the state, killed at least 65 people recently. Another 16 people were killed in the past two weeks due to landslides, caused by heavy flooding and incessant rainfall.

The prime minister, who is a Rajya Sabha member from Assam, also assured the state of efforts to restore the railway line in the Lumding-Badarpur Hill section of the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR).

The railway ministry has already been instructed to take up immediate steps to restore the railway line as it is a lifeline for the people in Assam’s Barak Valley, as well as neighbouring Mizoram and Tripura.

With the flood waters receding at some places, Manmohan Singh said the primary focus now would be on rescuing people who have been left marooned in flood-hit areas and providing relief to them.

The prime minister had earlier announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs.1 lakh each to the relatives of those killed in floods and landslides. Besides, the state government will also pay Rs.2.5 lakh each to the relatives 34 JULY (1) 2012

of the victims.

He also noted that over 700 army personnel, and 16 teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), comprising over 600 personnel and 71 boats, have been pressed into service for carrying out relief and rescue operations across the state.

“So far, a total of 4,000 people have been rescued across the state and 20 tonnes of relief material has been airlifted by the Air Force to help the marooned people,” the prime minister added.

“A total of 4.84 lakh people, who have been rendered homeless by floods, have taken shelter in the 768 relief across the state. All the required help was given to the inmates of the relief camps,” he said.

Manmohan Singh said that the state government has adequate stock of food grain but the central government will provide additional supplies of grain and other materials as and when required.

Meanwhile, Assam’s opposition parties, including the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF), the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and others, have expressed their dissatisfaction with the package announced by the prime minister.

AIUDF leader and Leader of Opposition Sirajuddin Ajmal said that Rs.500 crore is not sufficient as immediate relief as there has been huge devastation and loss of human lives and property in the floods.

BJP state unit spokesman Santanu Bharali also echoed similar sentiments, and also criticised the response of the state government.

“With the waters starting to recede, now the major problem will start in the form of diseases. However, we have not seen any alertness on the part of the government to deal with the situations that normally arises after the floods,” he said.

World’s only Sanskrit daily holds out against odds

Sudharma, possibly the only Sanskrit daily

in the world, is struggling for survival as it approaches its 43rd anniversary later this year.

In the face of dwindling interest in a language that many feel has no future, and lack of financial support from advertisers, the husband-wife team publishing the single sheet daily from Mysore is disillusioned, but not disheartened.

“We will continue to run the paper against all odds, as it is a mission with us,” said editor Sampath Kumar, returning after two months in hospital for a mild heart attack.

“There’s no question of looking back, despite the gross indifference of the state government and the Directorate of Audio-Visual Publicity (DAVP) to release advertisements to us,” added Jayalakshmi, the publisher.

It is not that Sudharma’s subscription base is shrinking. The contents are a mix of news and views on all subjects.

“We have close to 4,000 subscribers that include institutions and individuals, academics and religious bodies. It’s a pity the powers-that-be do not realise the historic role of Sanskrit, which has now been globally recognised as a scientific and phonetically sound language,” Sampath said.

According to Jayalakshmi, a study of Sanskrit is helpful as its knowledge improves pronunciation.

Lots of people who meet the duo wonder why they bring out the newspaper when it is not financially viable.

“My answer is that it is our shared responsibility and commitment to posterity not to let the language die, even as proglobalisation forces are promoting use of English in a big way,” Sampath explained.

Jayalakshmi reacted sharply to the charge of Sanskirt being a dead language.

“Who says Sanskrit is dead? Every morning, people recite shlokas, conduct pujas...ceremonies like marriage, childbirth and death are in Sanskrit. India is united by Sanskrit, the mother language sustaining so many languages... and now even IT professionals are saying it is useful,” says Jayalakshmi.

Sudharma was started on July 15, 1970, by Sampath’s father, Varadaraja Iyengar.

“On his (father) deathbed he made me promise that I would not let Sudharma be shut down. I am trying to keep the tradition and fire alive,” Sampath stated.

Sudharma’s annual subscription is Rs 400.

The daily mostly contains articles on the Vedas, yoga and religion, as also on politics and culture.

Sampath recalls that his father took the initiative to get All India Radio broadcast regular news bulletins in Sanskrit.

Mysore has become an important centre for Yoga and Sanskrit learning. Thousands of students from all over India come to learn Yoga at the 40-odd centres in the city.

According to Sampath, interest in alternative medicines like Ayurveda has also helped increase interest in Sanskrit.

Beginning as manually printed, Sudharma now has a computerised printing facility. An e-paper too is available online, making its reach international.

Lamenting the lack of official patronage, Sampath said: “Being in Sanskrit, Sudharma never had sufficient revenue from advertisements. Despite ample lip service and appreciation, no concrete help comes our way. But constraints have never deterred

us and we will continue to keep alive this glorious tradition.”

The modest office in Agrahara has been visited by ministers, governors, Shankaracharyas, and other dignitaries.

Sampath showed his vast collection of messages from politicians, scholars, intellectuals and business leaders.

The signs may not be too hopeful, but perhaps the paper, like the language it is published in, will be able to survive the test of time.

Organic basmati the new buzz among Jammu farmers

With an eye on growing national and international demand, Jammu’s agriculture department has begun cultivating organic basmati rice in the region.

“The organic paddy is produced using organic manure and no chemical fertiliser or pesticides are used in their growing,” said Jammu Agriculture Director Ajay Khajuria recently.

Ranbir Singh Pura, also called R.S. Pura, is considered the rice bowl of Jammu as it produces top quality basmati rice which has a particular flavour and aroma.

“There are 35,000 hectares of land under basmati production in the region, of which the department has begun cultivation of organic paddy in 200 hectares in villages around Suchetgarh in the R.S. Pura sector, about 35 kilometres west of Jammu,” said Khajuria.

The growing trend worldwide of shifting from chemical to organic farming, higher prices for organic agricultural products and higher remuneration for growers has prompted the department to start organic rice farming.

Pointing to salient features of organic rice cultivation, Khajuria said “manures used are Vermi compost, bio-dynamic compost, microbe-mediated compost, besides slush of bio-gas units. The agriculture department is providing assistance for production of such manures.”

“Cow urine is one of the best pesticides which is substituting the chemical pesticides,” the official said.

Organic basmati rice fetches 25 percent more for farmers than the normal variety, which sells for about Rs.28,000 to Rs.29,000 per quintal. R.S.Pura produces 550,000 quintals of basmati rice.

“By introducing organic farming on commercial, scientific and organized lines the farmers can harvest rich dividends here and farming can become sustainable,” the official said.

According to Ajay Khajuria, the adaptation and certification by the union commerce ministry is given after three years of observation.

“This is our first year and hope we can do better than other states in northern India.”

Jammu’s main competitors in basmati rice exports are Punjab, Haryana and Uttarakhand.

“Their rice is definitely slightly longer in size but the aroma and flavor of Jammu basmati is much richer,” Khajuria said.

After Jammu and Kashmir lifted the ban on export of basmati in 2010, about 630 quintals of the rice was exported from the Jammu region during 2010-11 to the US and Middle East, which increased to 1,350 quintals in 2011-12.

“The exports are going to increase manifold once the organic basmati of

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INDIAN NEWS PHOTO: AP

Jammu hits national and international markets,” Khajuria said.

Fateh Singh, is one of the farmers in Suchetgarh, where 200 hectares of land have been brought under organic basmati cultivation.

“I used to earn sufficient amounts from basmati but now I am happy that organic basmati will hopefully fetch me better prices,” said Singh, two hectares of whose land has been brought within the state’s organic basmati rice programme.

Empowering villagers through turtle conservation

Turtle conservation, mainly of the endangered Olive Ridley species, in Maharashtra’s coastal regions has moved to a new level - of empowering village communities to take the cause ahead, along with youth, students and ordinary volunteers.

“We have set the ball rolling and now we plan to empower the local village communities to take the cause ahead, along with youth, students and volunteers,” said Bhau Katdare, president of NGO Sahyadri Nisarg Mitra.

The venture, initiated by the Sahyadri Nisarg Mitra (SNM) with little or no resources, has now attracted international attention, besides financial help from other environmental groups, the state government, corporates and trusts.

As a first step in the SNM’s attempts to involve the local villagers in a big way, a variety of community activities are conducted round the year, especially during the annual turtle festival.

“There are awareness camps, film shows, dedicated cricket matches, nature walks, talks and competitions on environment, nature conservation and a computer training institute,” Katdare said.

For outsiders, a workshop on turtle conservation techniques and hatchery management was conducted by the Kasav Mitra Mandal at Velas in Ratnagiri district, where 40 participants from all over Maharashtra had converged.

Explaining the reasons behind the legacy, Katdare said the SNM and other groups successfully saved and released this year 3,555 turtle hatchlings into the Arabian Sea at various points on the Konkan coast.

Though the conservation now spans 36 villages in Raigad and Ratnagiri, 10 coastal villages were identified for attracting a large number of turtles.

They include Velas, Kelshi, Anjarle, Kolthare, Dabhol, Guhagar and Tavsal in Ratnagiri district and Diveagar, Maral and Harihareshwar in Raigad, with the direct and indirect efforts of a population of nearly 25,000 (in the 10 villages).

“This year, besides Velas (Ratnagiri), where the annual three-month turtle festival during the breeding season has been a major attraction, we organised a small two-day festival at Maral (Raigad) to create awareness of the cause,” Katdare said.

Last year in December, a similar turtle festival was held for the first time in Vengurla, Sindhudurg district in southern Konkan, by the Kirat Trust.

“Now, we want the local villagers to be actively involved in this and next year onwards. The people of Velas shall organise the annual turtle festival between February and April. Of course, we shall be there to provide them any technical, administrative, NATIONAL EDITION

A freestyle motorbike stunt rider flies in midair during a stunt show organised by an energy drink beverage company near the Indian war memorial India Gate in New Delhi, India on 30 June 2012. The show is part of one of the biggest freestyle motocross tours in India. logistics or expert assistance, but it will be the villagers’ own effort,” smiled Katdare, who has been spearheading the Chiplunbased NGO for 22 years, including the turtle conservation project for the past 10 years.

Discussing the success, a young village volunteer, Supriya Uke, said that in the past decade, the efforts have resulted in saving nearly 39,000 turtle hatchlings in over 700 nesting sites from natural and human predators. This includes 3,555 hatchlings from 68 nests this year in the targeted villages.

Velas leads the pack of villages showing good results in turtle conservation with the entire village community involved in the initiative - this year, 736 hatchlings were released from 17 nesting sites on its beach.

“Virtually every household contributes to the effort directly or indirectly and are also getting extra income from around 2,500 tourists who throng during the festival,” Katdare said.

In a morale booster, the Maharashtra government has chipped in Rs.8.90 lakh donation to be used for two years (from this year), while the Tata Consultancy Group gave Rs.1.25 lakh. The Shri Shankarlal Pokarna Charitable Trust, Pune, has donated Rs.2.25 lakhs.

The people from Velas and other villages also contributed 10 percent of their income, a modest Rs.18,000 - derived from the tourist traffic - to the turtle conservation efforts, Supriya said.

Villagers provide basic lodging and boarding to the hordes of tourists and environmentalists who converge there during the turtle festivals.

A major highlight this year was the training of 75 volunteers from Raleigh Expeditions, Mangalore, an international NGO which provides trained manpower support to conservation efforts in several countries.

“Both international and national

volunteers from Raleigh Expedition, along with the UNDP (United Nations Development Programme), visited the marine turtle conservation project in Velas, in five batches from November 2011- April 2012,” said Katdare.

“They included volunteers from India, Britain, the Netherlands, Ireland, Holland, Scotland and the United States of America,” he added.

The volunteers learnt the entire process of turtle conservation, including hatchery construction, stone gates, levelling paths leading to the nesting, nest relocating, creating artificial nests, locating nests in the sand, handling eggs and placing eggs back, in the sand and covering them with sand.

“Lack of manpower is a major problem for SNM to patrol the entire 720-km- long state coastline.

Fortunately, many nature lovers, youth and students are keenly interested in our work; so the future is bright. We are confident that the villagers have matured enough to take on from here,” Katdare said.

aboard the station during an exceptionally busy period that includes two spacewalks, the arrival of Japanese, US commercial and Russian resupply vehicles, and an increasingly faster pace of scientific research, the US space agency said.

Williams is the second woman of Indian heritage to have been selected by NASA for a space mission after Kalpana Chawla and the second astronaut of Slovenian heritage after Ronald M. Sega.

She holds three records for female space travellers: longest spaceflight (195 days), number of spacewalks (four), and total time spent on spacewalks (29 hours and 17 minutes).

A 1987 graduate of the US Naval Academy, Williams served in various roles as a Navy officer before being selected as an astronaut candidate by NASA in 1998. She received a master’s degree from the Florida Institute of Technology in 1995.

IANS

Sunita Williams heading back to space again

Self Employed Persons/ Organisations

Indian-American astronaut Sunita Williams is all set to return to the International Space Station, where she spent a record six months in 2006.

Daughter of an Indian American father from Gujarat and a Slovenian mother, Williams is currently making final preparations for a July 14 launch from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, according to a NASA announcement.

She will be a flight engineer on the station’s Expedition 32 with Flight Engineers Yuri Malenchenko of the Russian Federal Space Agency and Akihiko Hoshide of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. On reaching the space station she will take over as commander of Expedition 33.

Williams and her colleagues will be

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JULY (1) 2012 35

ARTS

Where words fail, art The true trauma experienced by asylum seekers in detention centres comes alive through their artwork

T

BY ANUSHA MENON

hey say a picture paints a thousand words. But as I fixed my gaze upon Kamalesh’s harrowing oil painting, I began to wonder whether the age-old idiom did this work enough justice. We’d talked about his time at Villawood Immigration Detention Centre plenty of times before. Yet, nothing he had previously told me quite articulated the grimness of life in mandatory detention as vividly as this painting did.

This picture didn’t just paint a thousand words. It spoke infinite, unutterable words of pain and torture. Kamalesh, a Sri Lankan refugee who spent more than two years detained at Villawood IDC, was eventually granted his visa in September 2011. The artwork, which he describes as “refugee feeling,” was painted while he was still in detention.

I asked him how long he’d been painting, to which he replied, “Before detention, I had not painted”.

I knew he must have been pulling my leg. The quality of Kamalesh’s work clearly attested to a lifetime of making art. But from his serious tone of voice, I knew he wasn’t lying.

“I learned how to paint from the TVS program Masterclass in Oils with Ken Harris. He is my master,” he said with a chuckle.

“When I was in detention, I never missed that show”.

But to create paintings with such intricacy and depth, he needed specific brushes and oil paints. Detainees held in Villawood IDC are rarely permitted beyond the centre premises. It would have been impossible for Kamalesh to go shopping for resources. While Ken Harris taught Kamalesh the very basic skills required in landscape painting, it was the volunteers at the Refugee Art Project that provided him with most of the necessary materials he needed to make his art, and gave him the encouragement and professional guidance he needed to hone his skills.

“One of the most fulfilling parts of this project is seeing detainees enjoy themselves in art, and then develop their 36 JULY (1) 2012

Artworks by Kamalesh Tamil asylum seeker Christmas Island boat tragedy Dove Sri Lankan army bombing the Tamils Right: Kamalesh (extreme right) with mates at the Refugee Art Project’s kitchen open day

own creative vision and style in spite of the many burdens and constraints that are placed upon them. This was the case with Kamalesh,” said Dr Safdar Ahmed, founder and director of the project.

The Refugee Art Project began in late 2010 as an initiative to provide art classes for asylum seekers in detention, and to showcase their creative work in public exhibitions. More than a year later, the project remains in full swing.

According to the project’s website, most of the artworks done by detainees share the themes of trauma, exile, hope and endurance. The project’s key intention is to express the stories and experiences of refugees in a manner that fruitfully engages with the general public.

“While refugee supporters do essential and valuable work, it occurred to us that asylum seekers are too often being spoken for or about, with little room to speak for themselves” said Dr Ahmed. “Thus, our idea was to empower refugees by giving them a voice through art to the wider community”.

Villawood IDC holds asylum seekers from different parts of the world. Not all of them have a good grasp of English, let alone a basic understanding of it. Art gives everyone the equal opportunity to speak their minds without having to use actual words.

“I was able to express my feelings through painting,” said Kamalesh. “Whatever materials I needed, I asked Safdar and he brought them in for me.”

An aspect of Kamalesh’s artwork that I found particularly striking was the tears of blood seeping from the hollowed eyes of the eerie humanoid tree in the central foreground of the painting. When I asked Kamalesh what these bloody tears meant he said, “Great sadness.”

Was the contorted figure meant to be him?

He smiled and shook his head.

“No. It can be any refugee that is suffering from being in detention for such a long time,” was his poignant answer.

On March 30, a parliamentary inquiry into mandatory detention confirmed that 90 percent of detainees suffer clinically significant depression. The report also stated that half this number is diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, and a quarter

An aspect of Kamalesh’s artwork that I found particularly striking was the tears of blood seeping from the hollowed eyes of the eerie humanoid tree in the central foreground of the painting.

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speaks

report having suicidal thoughts.

I asked Dr Ahmed about the impact the project has had on the mental health of detainees at Villawood. “The act of art-making certainly provides a point of immersion during which detainees can forget about their problems, so it is therapeutic in that way,” he said.

Kamalesh agreed. “When I was inside my room, I would always feel tension. But when I attended the art classes in the visitor’s area, I was able to mix with different people and do painting. This made my mind feel relaxed,” he revealed.

But Dr Ahmed made it clear that art therapy cannot significantly improve symptoms of mental illness. “We don’t see much chance of really helping people until they are taken out of the environment that is making them sick in the first place, which is the detention centre,” he said.

Nonetheless, the momentary solace and enjoyment that Kamalesh found when he mindfully engaged in painting was one of the most memorable parts of his time in detention. In fact, he and other detainees who also participated in the art classes and have since been granted visas, continue to maintain links with the project. Some have even had the rewarding opportunity to see their own artworks publicly displayed.

Recently, the project hosted the highly successful Life in Limbo exhibition at the Braemer Gallery in the Blue Mountains.

The exhibition, which contains a series of works produced entirely by asylum seekers, will also be displayed in Sydney’s UTS building throughout July and will travel to Melbourne in early October.

Dr Ahmed believes the presentation of these artworks NATIONAL EDITION

One of the most fulfilling parts of this project is seeing detainees enjoy themselves in art, and then develop their own creative vision and style in spite of the many burdens and constraints that are placed upon them.

Dr Ahmed

will have a positive impact on the Australian public.

“We are hoping to get lots of people into the exhibition and really open their eyes to the inspiring talent, perseverance and promise of those who are so unfairly locked away in our detention centres,” said Dr Ahmed.

“The work in this exhibition shows the tenacity, hope and faith of people who have fled the most hellish circumstances to try and forge a new life for themselves and their families, and they should be admired and supported for that,” he concluded.

JULY (1) 2012 37

BOOKS

Beyond champagne chic An enticing book takes a revealing peek into Indian diplomacy and its many intricate levels, writes MANISH CHAND

I

ndian diplomacy is 50 percent protocol, 30 percent alcohol and 20 percent TN Kaul (India’s legendary foreign secretary in the late sixties), so goes the famous one-liner. But it’s clearly much more than glamorous parties and clinking champagne glasses as a new book, which stitches together analyses, insights and reminiscences of India’s stalwart diplomats, shows.

Titled The Ambassadors’ Club (Harper Collins), the book, edited

by KV Rajan, a retired diplomat, weaves rare snapshots of Indian diplomacy in action at some of the fraught and exhilarating moments in India’s management of its foreign relations.

The book bristles with revelations and rare insights into how Indian diplomacy operates on the ground amid challenging situations and takes you beyond clichéd official formulations and discourses that often hide more than they say.

AND Haksar’s brief but compelling account of an impromptu summit meeting between Pakistan’s dictator Ziaul-Haq and India’s then Prime

38 JULY (1) 2012

Minister Morarji Desai in Nairobi in 1978 during the funeral ceremony of Kenyan leader Jomo Kenyatta is one such example that will prod readers to dig deeper into the book.

In the chapter entitled A Singular Summit, Haksar writes: “Bhutto was executed in the following summer of 1979 by the Zia government despite pleas for clemency from many leaders and governments around the world.

One which made no such plea was India, the Desai government taking the view that the matter was an internal affair of Pakistan.

Whether or not the previous summer’s summit had any role in this can only be a subject of speculation.”

There are also gripping accounts of some of the country’s much-esteemed retired diplomats whose stints coincided with history-changing moments in the countries in which they were posted.

TP Sreenivasan found himself grappling with the aftermath of a coup in Fiji in 1987 which was aimed at undermining the Indianorigin majority in Fiji’s affairs. A

Madhavan recalls vividly what it meant to be in the midst of one of the iconic events of the time, the fall of the Berlin Wall, and how India ingeniously built diplomatic bridges with a reunified Germany.

Jagat S Mehta, the doyen of Indian diplomats and now in his 90s, looks back at his diplomatic stint in China and seems to question Nehru and his advisers in their judgments of Chinese intentions in the late 1950s and 1960s. Commenting on Mehta’s article, KV Rajan, the editor of the book, writes: “Could the India-China war have been avoided if Nehru had been a better judge, or better advised, and his devoted and overawed bureaucrats were not convinced that ‘Panditji knows best?”

What imparts a unique flavour to the book are first-person accounts like that of The Last Days of Salvador Allende, the Chilean dictator, by GJ Malik and Niranjan Desai’s gripping tale of his travails in 1972 as an officer on special duty after Ugandan dictator Idi Amin whimsically expelled all Asians holding citizenship of

India, Pakistan, Bangladesh or Britain.

The Ambassadors’ Club is probably the first in a series of anthologies of reflections and reminiscences by Indian diplomats as they juggle diverse domains ranging from climate change negotiations to labyrinths of WTO talks and fills in on the drama and atmospherics that are missing from more scholarly tomes on international relations.

The book should be specially useful to practitioners as well as students of international relations.

Above all, it should inspire more young people to join the woefully understaffed Indian Foreign Service.

In a foreword to the book, National Security Advisor Shivshankar Menon recalls how he recently met a young man who had made it to the IFS, but was being dissuaded by his IAS colleagues and his girlfriend from

joining it. Menon says he tried to convince him about the singularity of the diplomat’s job, but in retrospect thought he should just have given him this book to read to discover the joys and challenges of Indian diplomacy.

The book weaves rare snapshots of Indian diplomacy in action at some of the fraught and exhilarating moments in India’s management of its foreign relations.

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An Aussie Boy in Chennai

Analysing India A foreigner’s point of view on the country’s sometimes baffling contradictions and interesting quirks

I

BY TIM BLIGHT

t’s strange how important national identity is to us humans. Despite being an artificial construct, nationality holds a special place in many people’s hearts.

Australian writers can criticize Australia as much as they like, but when a foreign journalist friend recently penned an article about Melbourne’s public transport system, the response was pure vitriol. The respondents, all Australian, appeared to have been personally offended by her rather honest and constructive thoughts. In his book The Clash of Civilisations, political scientist Samuel P. Huntington claimed that with the wars of tribes and ideologies over, cultural identity is the most natural and obvious point behind which people will rally. It is with moderate trepidation therefore that I begin this month’s piece, covering my observations of the Indian psyche.

The longer I spend in India, the more I begin to notice the subtle national quirks which make Indians who they are. While Indians may not realise it, these seem to have profound effects on the country and the way that it functions. My first observation is the very common juxtaposition of national pride and self-loathing.

Nationalism has swelled in India in recent decades, and although the country has always been a very proud nation, the patriotism shown in the past ten years suggests this is on the increase.

In fact, according to many people who I meet, India is the best country in the world. However, I’m often left wondering just how good it is when those same people ask me to help them migrate to Australia.

Which leads me to my second observation; that a majority of Indian people are in a sort of unequal relationship with foreign countries, particularly Britain, America and the Arab Gulf states.

With all the issues that plague Indian society, life in the West can be particularly seductive, and as a result a large section of society seems to think that although Mother India is home, the West is somehow basically ‘better’. Bollywood must share much of the blame for this, for its productions nearly always present

NATIONAL EDITION

a sanitized version of life in the West, overlooking actual issues as social isolation, alcohol-fuelled street crime and the sexualizing of children. Equally, many Muslims on the subcontinent have an almost unfaltering admiration for Arabs as the gatekeepers of Islam.

That respect isn’t returned in Gulf Arab states, where many locals treat Indians with contempt, and see South Asian Muslims as being ‘not proper Muslims’ – a sentiment which in fact violates the Qur’an’s egalitarian values. I wonder if this partial inferiority complex is the legacy of historic events. Is the special respect of Indians for Arabia and the West a hangover from the days of the Mughal and British administrations, when one was forced to respect Muslims or Britain?

What results is a reality gap which manifests itself in perceptions of India and foreign nations. At home, some Indians are inclined to believe things which might not be accurate, but which compensate for a perceived inferiority. “Buddha was born in India”, “India’s Kanchenjunga is the highest mountain in the world”, and “India has the strongest military in the world” are just a few examples.

Meanwhile these same people set their sights on the ‘better’ abroad – and often still believe the filmi stereotypes about money, girls and success in the West. A strange contradiction emerges, where otherwise patriotic Indians dismiss attractions as being ‘too poor’ or ‘too lowly’, simply because they’re in India – when in actual fact, there’s nothing wrong with said attraction. At the extreme end of this spectrum, we see the contradiction in some NRIs who will scrub commodes in the West to make ends meet, but won’t drive through perfectly fine suburbs in India because “it’s dirty”. Apparently, Indian dirt is worse that Western dirt.

The positive side of India’s reality gap is that Indian society remains less cynical that Western society. The belief that a dream might come true still exists in many Indians, no matter how many beatings that dream may take. Lots of students graduating from school actually believe that they will one day be rich beyond their wildest dreams. If they graduated in the West, a large section of society would pull them aside and tell that that no matter how hard they work, some people just never make it. Lots of Indians seem to believe that

Architecture wasn’t the only legacy left by the Mughals and the British

Although the country has always been a very proud nation, the patriotism shown in the past ten years suggests this is on the increase.

Left: Bollywood stereotypes abound about Indians in western countries (even Salaam Namaste’s impoverished students in Melbourne), living the glamorous life

Nationalism has swelled in India in recent decades. love, in the end, will triumph - in the West, it is commonly held that only the lucky ones stick together.

When the Delhi Metro opened a couple of years ago, hearts thumped with pride. The same project in Australia would have been torn apart by a society fed up with broken political promises.

Despite the constantly broken promises of their government, and despite often complaining about what’s wrong with their country, for better or for worse, Indians are still a hopeful bunch.

I sincerely hope my time in India has rubbed off on me, and made me more Indian in this respect.

So I hope that I haven’t offended anyone, or cut too close to the bone. Moreover, I hope that this is not interpreted as an attack on Indians or Indian values – it is simply a recount of my observations. India is a complex being, and as such psychoanalysing her is a hazardous task. And as for a psychoanalysis of Australian society? Don’t even get me started…

At home, some Indians are inclined to believe things which might not be accurate, but which compensate for a perceived inferiority.

JULY (1) 2012 39

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40 JULY (1) 2012

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Nurturing the neighbours

India reaches out to countries within its periphery, with the intention of building sustainable relationships of Defence says, “India is a global power, and they are meeting their responsibilities and we welcome that …”

India has been building its naval resources BY in recent years. This has received much media noel g de sOUZA attention particularly after the 2008 terrorist attacks in Mumbai which were launched from the sea. Dasgupta and Cohen’s book Arming tandard & Poor is at its old game without Aiming (published in 2010), lauded again. This time it has latched India’s successful naval modernisation, onto vague ideas that India faces but it was critical that this success was not a financial slowdown, and the agency has underpinned by any stated aims. India’s threatened to downgrade India’s rating. This official stance is that its navy is being used is the same rating agency which took years for peaceful purposes such as fighting piracy before reluctantly giving India a medium and to bring stability to rating. Meanwhile, it had the region. Dasgupta and consistently given European Cohen’s book was published countries high ratings when two years ago. India’s stand is many of them were nearly now becoming clear. insolvent.

Manmohan Singh This does not mean that Around the same time, has dedicated India is a military alliance TIME magazine, quoting the with the USA against IMF (International Monetary himself to anybody. In March this year Fund) told a different story. strengthening India’s India hosted the meeting of It said that the BRICS group relationship with the BRICS leaders: Presidents (Brazil, Russia, India, China its periphery, which Dilma Rousseff, Dmitry and South Africa) had a firstly encompasses Medvedev, Manmohan Singh, GDP growth of 8% in 2010 its neighbours Hu Jintao and Jacob Zuna. which had slowed to 6% in with whom it has These include some of 2012, whereas for the USA common the world’s most populous the figures were 3% to 2% boundaries countries. and for the Eurozone it was Manmohan Singh met 2% to –0.3%.

Myanmar’s democracy What is intriguing about leader Aung San Suu Kyi after a meeting in Standard & Poor is that this threat was Yangon, and invited her to deliver the next published just when India’s Finance Minister Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Lecture in India.

Pranab Mukerjee was being touted as its Suu Kyi has accepted the invitation, hoping next President. There have been attacks to visit India before long. Singh announced on the Standard & Poor threat by Indian that India has opened a $500 million line of commentators. At last, one would say! At that time a few Indian politicians like Mamata credit from which Myanmar can draw; India is interested in getting energy resources from Banerjee were proposing that the Prime Burma.

Minister Manmohan Singh should be the The Australian Defence Minister Stephen next President.

Smith, calls India a “natural maritime Manmohan Singh has dedicated himself partner” of Australia, while pointing out that to strengthening India’s relationship with Indonesia is emerging as not just a regional, its periphery, which firstly encompasses but a global influence. India, Indonesia its neighbours with whom it has common and Australia have maritime co-operation boundaries (Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, agreements. Indonesia shares a common Bhutan, Burma and China). But there exist maritime boundary with India north of the others some distance away with which it has island of Sumatra and the Andaman-Nicobar had historical and cultural relationships, such Archipelago. Significantly, Indonesia refers to as Afghanistan, the Gulf States and Iran the Indian Ocean as Samudra Hindia. on the one side, and Thailand, Cambodia, India’s relationship with the Middle East Malaysia and Indonesia on the other side. goes back centuries. The Middle East is the The U.S. Secretary of Defence Leon gateway to Europe. Maritime trade, based Panetta has been having talks with on the current reversals in the Arabian Sea, Manmohan Singh concerning regional existed since the times of King Solomon. security and defence. India is important Today the Gulf States are hosts to thousands with regards to the Indian Ocean, as it is the of Indians and other subcontinentals who largest navy in the Arabian Sea and the Bay make valuable financial contributions to of Bengal. There is a shift of US naval forces their mother countries. India has no military from the Indian Ocean to the Pacific, where presence, unlike Pakistan, in those countries, Panetta has signalled that six aircraft carriers but its navy patrols the Arabian Sea to will be based. These events should be viewed prevent piracy. in the backdrop of the South China Sea India’s periphery thus stretches over a a which China claims as its own, against the considerable swath between Southeast Asia other claimants which include Vietnam, the and the Middle East, and Manmohan Singh Phillipines and Taiwan. has been busy building up relationships The USA is calling India a global power. within its confines.

Captain John Kirby of the US Department

S

42 JULY (1) 2012

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viewpoint

When TV leads the charge

Social activists, networks and advertisers around the world should take note of a radical new TV format creating phenomenal waves of change in India

S

BY TIM BLIGHT

omething strange is happening in India. Every Sunday morning, millions of Indians haul themselves out of bed to be told about all the things which are wrong in their country.

Unpalatable though the home truths may be, Satyamev Jayate (‘Truth alone prevails’) has nonetheless garnered a massive audience and has become one of the highest rating shows on Indian television. The programme and the issues that it highlights, regularly become the highest trending topics on Twitter.

Considered so important for the nation is Satyamev Jayate that it is simulcast on the national broadcaster Doordashan, as well as the commercial channel Star Plus for which it was produced.

Although presented in Hindi, it is supplemented with English subtitles, and dubbed in eight regional tongues. And although it is only up to its sixth episode, it is being hailed a revolution in television, not just for India, but for television as a concept.

Television has, to date, witnessed many incarnations as a medium of entertainment, education, promotion, information and increasingly, interaction with audiences.

However, most television markets are yet to capitalise on the political and social activism which has taken the social media world by storm. Attempts in the past have generally assumed one of two forms: first, as a comparatively shallow attempt to take advantage of Twitter, Facebook or YouTube’s flavour of the month, but never to lead the charge. A special Kony 2012 edition of the Seven Network’s Sunrise may be viewed as a recent example - the programme, along with celebrity twitteratti, responded to the already growing awareness of the viral ‘Stop Kony’ video. The second form of televisual social activism can be seen in programmes which raise awareness, but without the stated aim of promoting political engagement. The Oprah Winfrey Show can be categorised as a highly successful example of this - while it gained political clout for raising social awareness in recent years, it was never wholly a ‘call to arms’ NATIONAL EDITION

in the way that Satyamev Jayate is.

More than a few commentators have suggested that we are witnessing the birth of a new format of television, which acts not just to raise awareness, but as a genuine social movement.

After almost six months of hype on television, print and social media, Satyamev Jayate premiered on May 6, 2012. The first 90-minute long programme, conceived and hosted by Bollywood star Aamir Khan was a melange of facts, figures and heartbreaking interviews on the topic of female foeticide.

Subsequent topics have included child sexual abuse, the practice of dowry, forced marriages and the state of India’s healthcare system.

To air a nation’s dirty laundry at 11am on a Sunday morning was a huge risk, especially in a country as proud and conservative as India. Yet somehow the gamble paid off, and commentators have been left wondering why it worked, and if it could be replicated elsewhere.

Analysts have pointed to the host’s public profile as being key to the success of the show, others have cited savvy marketing.

Some attribute its success to widespread support for the initiative, with political parties, celebrities and journalists alike agreeing on the programme’s worth (The term ‘Satyamev Jayate’ is also India’s national motto, so it has a particular pertinence).

However, none of these can explain why millions of people continue to be confronted with these often sickening topics over their Sunday morning chai. Nor can they explain the massive public engagement with the programme and its social media platforms - the Facebook page received 233,000 ‘likes’ on the day of the premiere episode alone. Furthermore, neither the choice of host nor marketing can explain the huge political impact of the show, which each week successfully encourages viewers to send text messages to petition hotlines, and pledge money to charities, the amounts of which are then matched by the show’s sponsors. Nine days after the second episode aired, and in direct response to that episode’s ‘SMS petition’, India’s parliament passed a landmark bill to legally protect minors against sexual abuse. Perhaps people actually care?

The programme has not been without its detractors, however, who have decried its

More than a few commentators have suggested that we are witnessing the birth of a new format of television, which acts not just to raise awareness, but as a genuine social movement.

melodramatic nature (the host has teared up in every outing so far) and its ‘infotainment’ production, which sees an acoustic song reflective of the week’s topic played at the end of the episode.

Journalists who have been working for years to highlight these social issues claim it’s sheer populism and have warned that it won’t solve complex problems, while others have branded it another manifestation of Teju Cole’s White Savior Industrial Complex, repackaged for middleclass Indians. Some cynics have called it a sub-genre of alreadyexploitative reality television.

Regardless of what it represents, no-one disputes that it is creating change where it is needed, and that the victims of certain social ills are receiving more attention than ever before. And while they deny that they were motivated by money, the host, networks and sponsors are tallying up a tidy sum from it all.

So from an outsider’s point of view, all of this begs the question: can Satyamev Jayate’s success be replicated in other countries? To be sure, programmes like this are not unprecedented around the world, even in Australia. Early incarnations of This Is Your Life tended to focus on unsung heroes, Australian Story works to tell the stories which don’t make the headlines, and even Seven’s 2002 programme Undercover Angels featuring Ian Thorpe and Nine’s Domestic Blitz were feel-good reality shows. However, nothing

has quite matched the mix of star power, social media, social engagement, political activism, widespread endorsement and genuine appeal that this Indian format has. Modern Australian television has become rather segregated, forcing the masses to choose between what is important and what is entertaining. Crucially, any show would require that X factor which would make people choose discussion of heavy social issues over light entertainment like The Voice.

Every country h as its social issues, even if they are not as visible to the mainstream as India. Domestic violence remains a problem in Australia, as does homelessness, the mental health system and bullying. Moreover they remain problems which have the potential to unite Australians, and if given the right treatment, could stir national consciousness in the way Satyamev Jayate has done.

A truly divisive issue could make or break the show’s format, and might be better left to another programme. The divisive issue of asylum seekers was highlighted last year by SBS’s excellent miniseries Go Back To Where You Came From, but ultimately it didn’t affect government policy.

It’s questionable whether the core concept of Satyamev Jayate is negated when the result is debate, but the government is able to ride out the storm of public criticism occurring on the letters page of newspapers.

Regardless of what it represents, no-one disputes that it is creating change where it is needed, and that the victims of certain social ills are receiving more attention than ever before.

Finally, there exists the view that most Australians, in their middle-class bulk, are simply too politically and socially apathetic to take serious action on social issues unless they are directly being affected. It’s important to remember that the same concern was held about India’s newlycomfortable middle class when this concept was being developed: would people really choose this over the glut of tabloid news channels, game shows and soap operas which ruled the roost?

All that was required was enough people to take the risk.

Article originally published on the website www.mediaspy.org

JULY (1) 2012 43

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Where is the property market headed?

Is this the best time to purchase your first home or investment property?

By Navjeet Singh Matta, ASIC Licensed Mortgage Broker also Director- Gain Home Loans (Full member MFAA) Dear Friends, Hope you are keeping yourself warm in this chilly weather; we have couple of more months of cold weather left before we head to spring in September.

Now let’s talk about the climate in the property market! As per the recent RP Data property monitor report, the values of properties have fallen in major cities all across Australia. This is despite RBA efforts to lift the housing market with rate cuts. Home values dropped 1.4 per cent across all capital cities in May and are now down by more than 5 per cent on a year ago. Melbourne was the worst performing city, with residential property values falling 2.7 per cent last month and more than 8 per cent over the year. Sydney, which has proven resilient to the market downturn, also posted a decline. In May, the city’s home values were down 1.2 per cent, resulting in a 3.6 per cent drop over the year. The Brisbane market is showing signs of improving after two years of lacklustre values. Until recently the river city’s home prices were falling most across Australian capital cities but last month they dipped just 0.3 per cent.

Adelaide was an exception and outperformed all other capitals with 1.2 per cent rise in May. Perth had a decline of 1.7 per cent, Darwin 2.4, Canberra 1.5 and Hobart 1.2. Much of the weakness in real estate values was in detached housing rather than apartments so it is clear that the market is becoming increasingly price-point driven with stronger performances across more affordable markets, unit values across the combined capitals increased in May and are up by 1.3 per cent over the first five months of the year. On the positive note, the rental demand and the weekly rental return is pretty strong. We get this concern from people that we could also see a crash in the property market, similar to US however the biggest difference I find between US and Australian market is the supply of houses. In Australia we still have shortage of dwellings and there is a huge demand from both prospective tenants and first home buyers, so if you ask my opinion, this is one of the best times to get in the property market as the prices are soft. We all know that we go through cycles in the property market and currently we are going through a lean period however if you look at the low interest rates being offered by the lenders, the return is pretty good whether you are a first home buyer or an investor. If you are looking for a good deal on your home loan, please contact us on 0296763417 or 0412 452 429 and we can find the best deal for you as per your situation, our services are absolutely free.

Recent changes for first home buyers and investors As you all know the NSW government announced their annual budget and apart of various other changes they have introduced some substantial changes for the first home buyers and second home buyers/ investors. First Home buyers have been significantly affected, especially the ones who are looking to purchase an established property, these changes are coming in effect from 1st October 2012, I have outlined below the changes that are going to take place: FIRST HOME BUYERS.....If contract of sale is exchanged before 1st October 2012: People who are buying an established home will get no stamp-duty exemption however will be eligible for the $7,000 grant from the government People who are buying a brand new or off the plan home will get full stamp-duty exemption upto the value of $500K and partial up to $600K and also will be eligible for the $7,000 grant from the government FIRST HOME BUYERS.....If contract of sale is exchanged on or after 1st October 2012 People who are buying an established home will get no stamp-duty exemption and also will not be eligible for any government grant.

People who are buying a brand new or off the plan home will get full stamp-duty exemption upto the value of $650K and also will be eligible for the $15,000 grant from the government SECOND HOME BUYERS/INVESTORS.....If contract of sale is exchanged before 30th June 2012 People who are buying an established home will get no stamp-duty exemption and also will not be eligible for any government grant.

People who are buying a brand new home will be eligible for 25% exemption in stamp duty (for the property to the value of $600K) but no grant. If they are buying off the plan home they will be eligible for full stamp-duty exemption upto the value of $600K of completed home on the other hand they will get a full stamp duty exemption on a land purchase upto the value of $400K (with a view to build in near future) SECOND HOME BUYERS/INVESTORS.....If contract of sale is exchanged on or after 1st July 2012 From July 1, 2012, a new $5,000 grant will be provided to buyers of new homes, whether off the plan or newly built, with a value up to $650,000 and to buyers of vacant land that is intended to be the site of a new home valued up to $450,000 but the downside is that they will get no stamp-duty exemptions.

I have tried to explain the changes in a simple language however if there is something you want clarification on, please call me or send me an email and I’ll respond immediately. There has been a mixed reaction with these changes. Some are saying that most benefit will go to the developers and builders who will now hike their prices. The first home buyers who wish to buy an established property will lose out on the benefits and may have to wait longer as they now have to come up with more deposit, on the other hand first home buyers who are buying brand-new property now need less deposit than before.

Thank you for reading this article and your continued support, as mentioned before if you are looking for a good deal on your home loan, please contact us at Gain Home Loans, Lvl 1, 15 Flushcombe Rd, Blacktown, Ph: 02 9676 3417 and 0412 452 429 or you can drop me an email at info@gainhomeloans.com.au Disclaimer: Any advice given in this article does not take into account the personal needs and objectives or financial situation of the reader. The reader should consider the appropriateness of this and seek professional advice before making a decision whether to acquire or continue the products and services mentioned.

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JULY (1) 2012 45

46 JULY (1) 2012

SCHOOL

Holidays and the concentrated mind Maintaining a balance between recreation and work could prove to be a positive path for students

T

BY MOHAN DHALL

he mid-year holidays are upon us and it is timely for parents to ask how to approach the break from the point of view of their children.

Holidays are necessary for breaking routine, refreshing the mind and relaxing. However, they can also be an opportunity for students to discover a new balance between rest and effort.

All students tend to look forward to the idea of a holiday.

The school term can vary in length between seven to twelve weeks. Students and their teachers look forward to a break from the early morning starts and the fullness of the term. Holidays usually provide a complete break from school. The exception may be that some schools provide activities and structured support for students in senior years. These schools might offer study revision classes or time when major works for particular subjects such as Art and Design and Technology can be completed. It is also possible that schools offer holiday care for students to help working families.

The question that should be asked is whether a complete break from study is, in fact, the best use of holiday time.

Family time

A recent study in Taiwan asked parents what they value most about school holidays. Taiwanese students are currently on summer holidays. When planning for the holidays, parents in Taiwan firstly budget for family time. That is, they first allocate money and time for a holiday with their children.

Interestingly, their second consideration is private tuition and study camps. This means that once the joint holiday part of the school break is over, the parents expect their children to engage in some structured study, despite being on holiday.

Balancing time

A balanced approach to the holidays includes a mix of complete rest and relaxation, some physical activity, some reading, some mental exertion and some recreational and social time.

Students should be allowed to have some complete days off to do as they like – sleep in, watch television, play electronic media, socialise with friends and relax.

However, once a few days have NATIONAL EDITION

A balanced approach to the holidays includes a mix of complete rest and relaxation, some physical activity, some reading, some mental exertion and some recreational and social time.

passed, depending on the age of the student, it is appropriate to expect that one to two hours of academic work be done on each weekday. This might include an hour of reading, some time revising past notes, doing practice questions, expanding their reading and revising of schoolwork covered in the school.

Focus is the key

A crucial issue with respect to holiday work is how to focus.

Students might feel like it is very unfair or difficult, to concentrate when they are on holidays.

There are several strategies that parents can adopt including a discussion about the need to balance between rest and work, as well as to encourage children to take advantage of this time to think and integrate concepts and learning, and to provide a chance to set goals and feel the personal reward of achieving them.

Balancing work and rest

In the study of organisational psychology there is an understanding that too much work can cause distress. But too little work can be stressful as well.

The optimal level of stress is called ‘eustress’ and in this range of stress, people perform to their optimal capacity. Students who rest too much or work too much will tend to become stressed easily when pressured by the idea of study. However, a small amount of study, some physical activity, some socialising with friends – these are perfect days. Students who study and then play cricket, watch a movie, go shopping or spend times with friends are much more likely to feel like the leisure is well-deserved and therefore more highly valued.

To help children find value in appreciating the benefit of some

structured study time, parents can start by teaching them about goal setting.

Goal setting

If asked what they would like to achieve, many students might shrug uncertainly, or they might say something extremely likely to make their parents proud such as becoming a doctor, lawyer or pharmacist. Some might cheekily say they would like to be a Bollywood star or even a famous millionaire. The reality is that achievable, but challenging goals drive the best performance.

When the goals come from within the child, they are a source of inspiration, energy and focus.

Parents can help children focus on goals by helping them understand their strengths, listening to and sharing their interests, and by showing them how goals can be broken down into a series of small, manageable steps.

Goals can be negotiated at the start of the holidays in order to make the most out of the holidays. These can include some goals for how much recreation, social time, family time and also study time can be expected over the holidays.

Predictability, structure and order Even during the holidays predictability, order and structure are important. This is because to study for an hour or two a day requires some planning and discipline. If the study is done early in the day, a child can feel a sense of achievement and personal satisfaction, and enjoy the rest of the day with a great sense of accomplishment.

iPhone and iWon’t

There are very many distractions for students when they try to concentrate. Primary amongst

these is ready access to electronic media and social networking sites such as Facebook. An aspect of holiday discipline is to help students wean themselves off constant access to the phone, music and the internet.

Surprisingly, they might find that they actually remember more, get more study done in less time, and start to intrinsically enjoy learning.

The phone, music and internet will still be there in an hour!

Holiday revision courses

One way for older students to spend productive time during the holidays and also to meet other students is to attend holiday revision courses. Spending time at such courses can help students revise material already covered in school or to introduce areas of study that will be covered.

This exposure can take stress off term time. A disadvantage of these courses is that they can be expensive or require travel.

An advantage of the courses is that they can help to provide focused and supported study time.

Furthermore, they can be very affirming for students, especially if they already know the content and realise that they are learning strategies for applying the skills and knowledge that they already have.

Hitting the ground running

Students who take a few days off from all study and thereafter integrate a small amount of disciplined study into each weekday of their holidays will be doing themselves a great service.

They will feel rested and relaxed whilst also ensuring that their mind is active, and they will be exercising their thinking. With some physical activity thrown in, you can have the perfect break.

Students who take a few days off from all study and thereafter integrate a small amount of disciplined study into each weekday of their holidays will be doing themselves a great service

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FOOD

Chocolate cake with a difference Of all the quirky ways to include chocolate in your food, here are a couple of options that are delicious and somewhat healthy

BY DEVNA LUTHRA

Teacher: If you had 10 chocolate cakes, and someone asked for 3.75 cakes, how many would you have left?

Student: 10 cakes Teacher: Okay then, imagine if someone forcibly removed 3.75 chocolate cakes from you, then how many would you have?

Student: 10 cakes and a dead body.

It’s said that nine out of ten people like chocolate, and the tenth person lies. I’ve always wanted to try one of the chocolate barfis from the big silver-tray tiered windows in the Indian shops, but Mum always says “Chocolate barfis are terrible!”

(I think she just had a bad experience with them at some point…) and it got me thinking about how many different ways there are that we consume chocolate – in a drink, in icecream, fruit smothered in it, the topping for bars and slices and the easiest and probably ‘favouritest’ block or bar. Chocolate cakes were probably the first thing I learned to make (with help from my friends Betty Crocker, Greens and White Wings) and it is said that everyone should have a good chocolate cake recipe in their repertoire. But now, like with phones and computers, there are so many different new modern types! I’ve heard of chocolate mayonnaise cake (apparently this gives a rich and dark texture and not a taste of mayonnaise), chocolate cake with beetroot (how healthy is that?!), chocolate cake with oatmeal, chocolate chilli cakes, and even weird extremes like vegan chocolate avocado cake (not sure about that last one…).

Here are some recipes that our family loves. Chocolate Mug Cake is a ‘lazy’ dessert - easy, simple and quick to make, fun to eat on a cold night as you sit around in your PJs watching TV. (The recipe provided here serves one person only: you’ll NATIONAL EDITION

find, as I did, when you make this more frequently, that everybody will want their own mug, so beware).

The Chocolate Beetroot has less flour and butter, (Chickpea Cake none at all) so you can convince yourself that they are a healthy alternative!

Chocolate Mug Cake

4 tbsp flour 2 tbsp sugar 2 tbsp cocoa 1 small egg About 3 tbsp milk 3 tbsp butter or margarine melted, or vegetable oil. ½ tsp vanilla extract 1 tbsp choc chips 1 large mug Mix the dry ingredients together in a mug Crack an egg and add it to the mug. Be sure to mix it well to avoid pockets of flour in the corners. Pour in the milk, melted butter/oil and vanilla extract and mix well.

Pop your mug into the microwave for about 2-3 minutes on maximum power, depending on your type of microwave. You’ll know when it’s done when the cake stops rising and sets in the mug.

Run a knife around the sides of the mug, and tip the warm cake out of the mug and onto a saucer.

Chocolate Chickpea Cake

2 tbsp cocoa powder 2/3 cup chopped dark cooking chocolate 1 x 375g can chickpeas, rinsed and drained 4 large eggs 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1/2 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp salt Preheat oven to 180 degrees.

Grease and line cake pan Melt the chocolate, either in the microwave (remember to stir

between intervals) or over the stove.

Puree chickpeas, eggs and vanilla until smooth. Add sugar, baking powder and salt and blend to combine.

Add melted chocolate and blend to combine, scraping down sides of bowl well as necessary. The batter will be thick. Transfer into prepared pan and bake until knife inserted in centre comes out clean, about 1 hour depending on the strength of your oven.

Allow cake to cool for 15 minutes on wire cooling rack. Dust with icing sugar just before serving

Chocolate Beetroot Cake

This cake comes out really rich and moist and you’d never guess it was low fat, but there is no butter and almost no flour. Definitely use the best quality chocolate you can buy.

250g good-quality dark chocolate 250g raw beetroot, peeled and

finely grated 250g light brown sugar 40g self-raising flour 40g plain flour 3 eggs 2 tbsp maple syrup 2 tbsp honey ¼ tsp bicarbonate of soda ¼ tsp salt 1 tsp vanilla essence 25g cocoa powder 50g ground almonds 100ml strong black coffee 30ml vegetable oil 150g good-quality dark chocolate 3 tbsp strong black coffee 1 tsp vanilla essence 3 tbsp clear honey Preheat oven to 180 degrees.

Melt the chocolate over a pan of simmering water, then let cool.

In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar, vanilla, maple syrup and honey for three minutes with an electric hand till fluffy.

Add in the flours, bicarbonate

of soda, salt, cocoa and ground almonds.

Remove moisture from the grated beetroot with some kitchen paper.

Add in the beetroot, cooled chocolate, coffee and oil and mix together.

Pour the mixture into a greased round cake tin and cook in the middle of the oven for 1 hour 30 minutes. After this time, cover the cake with foil and bake for another 30 minutes.

To make the topping, melt the chocolate in a bowl over a pan of simmering water, then remove from the heat and add the coffee and the vanilla essence.

Set aside to cool for 15 minutes before icing the cake. Cut the cake through the middle and ice it in the centre and on all sides.

JULY (1) 2012 53

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Warming foods

wellness

The tendency to overeat is higher in winter, but some foods can keep you warm without increasing the calories

BY GEETA KHURANA

W

ell into winter now, one of our main concerns in this season is putting on weight with less activity. For most of us, it is too cold to venture out for our regular exercise. This is the time when we just want to sit down on the couch cuddled up in our quilt and drink hot beverages while watching our favourite TV show or just reading.

Some people suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which adds moodiness, causing one to stray from their health goals. Studies have suggested that there is an increase in aches and pains during winter, along with an increase in functional impairment associated with seasonal depression. An increase in appetite is also reported, with the start of the winter season.

Nature has its own way of keeping the body warm. Heat can be generated from within the body as well as from food that raises the body’s temperature to help it cope. The body needs to burn more calories to keep warm, and hence there is a need to eat more.

However, certain foods have a more warming effect than others.

In the winter we tend to increase our intake of hot, spicy and fried foods like puris, samosas, gulab jamuns, carrot halwa and garam garam jalebi.

But with reduced activity and an increase in the intake of high calorie foods, we pile on the kilos.

We can hide this weight under bulky winter clothes but it becomes a major concern in summer.

But we can chase away our chills with foods that generate heat and keep our bodies warm, while not adding to our weight.

Soups

A bowl of hot soup in winter is what our body needs to take the chill out of our bones. Soups can be an excellent way to add veggies, lentils, beans and protein-loaded chicken, fish or meat to your diet without the addition of too many carbohydrates and fats in your diet. Having a low calorie bowl of soup before dinner can help you consume fewer calories NATIONAL EDITION

in your meal which in turn can prevent weight gain. Try to make soups with different combinations and also by using different ingredients such as beans, green leafy vegetables, carrots, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, fish, chicken and meat. You can even have thick broths of soup as a meal if you add enough proteins, vegetables, and potatoes or sweet potatoes for carbohydrates. Avoid having very creamy soups or adding too much cornflour to thicken the soup.

If you want to buy commercial soups, to control the amount of fat, sodium and calories in your soup, shop for low-sodium, lowfat brands or prepare your own soups at home using low-sodium vegetable broth. Not only are soups hot, tasty and nutritious, but they also provide water which we often forget to consume during winter. Hot liquid also helps break up congestion and liquefy mucus.

Herbs, spices and condiments

Winter is a great time to add condiments and herbs like ginger, garlic, cloves, cinnamon and turmeric to your meals. In addition to their warming effects, they contain phytonutrients and have anti-inflammatory properties that help fight infections and disease. Garlic also has allicin, an antioxidant that helps fight bacteria and strengthens our immune system.

Citrus fruits

Citrus fruit like lemons, grapefruit, oranges and mandarin are loaded with vitamin C and thus help us fight against common colds and flu. These foods strengthen our immune system and the vitamin C also helps combat free radicals and thus may also aid in preventing certain cancers.

Citrus foods are good sources of potassium and folate, the nutrients needed for a healthy heart.

Nuts and dried fruits

Nuts can be a friend or a foe in winter. In India with the Ram Lila come the rehriwalas with peanuts, gachak and revri. Nuts can be very healthy snacks for winter, if eaten in moderation.

They are a good source of energy, protein, iron, selenium, vitamin E and unsaturated fats. Most dried fruits such as dates, figs and prunes are high in fibre which helps with constipation that sets

in with reduced activity and less water in the

winter months.

Dates and apricots can be good desserts instead of hot gulab jamun. But with the nuts, since these are energy-dense, moderation is the keynote – not more than a handful a day.

Whole grains

The traditional Indian whole grain cereals besides wheat and rice include bajra, jowar, oats, barley and corn which have great warming properties. Millets can be used to make hot porridge.

Whole pulses and legumes like beans, soybean and lentils can be used in soups and stews. Whole grains and wholegrain breads are a healthy way to add fibre to your diet and also to keep you full.

Seeds

Seeds such as sunflower seeds, flaxseeds, linseeds and sesame seeds are known for their warming effects and health properties. Our winters in northern India were filled with yummies such as alsi ke ladoo, til ki gachak and til ke ladoo.

Seeds have phyto-estrogens that are good anti-oxidants which help in preventing cancers. These seeds are also good sources of unsaturated fats, proteins, vitamin E and minerals. But it is healthier to add seeds in our cereals and

stews, and only occasionally have the ladoos.

Lean meats, chicken and fish

These high protein foods are associated with increased heat production and higher thermogenesis. But stick to the grilled and steamed options, rather than the fried ones.

Tea

Teas such as ginger and tulsi tea have been used to treat cough, colds, body aches and pains. Tea has flavonoids which help to strengthen the immune system.

But be careful to add low fat milk and not load it with sugar. Ginger tea with half a teaspoon of honey or jaggery is great for winter.

Fluids

Water is the most neglected during winters. Make sure you sip on enough soups, tea and juices to keep yourself well hydrated.

Seeds such as sunflower seeds, flaxseeds, linseeds and sesame seeds are known for their warming effects and health properties.

Enjoy your winter meals without the addition of extra calories or the fear of cholesterol going high.

JULY (1) 2012 57

TRAVEL

Charms of Kota Nature walks, pristine beaches, well-maintained resorts and an array of markets are the chief attractions in this cheerful Malaysian city

BY PETRA O’NEILL

K

ota Kinabalu, or ‘KK’ as it is affectionately known, is the capital of the Malaysian state of Sabah on the island of Borneo, only a short flight away from Kuala Lumpur or Singapore.

Kota Kinabalu traces its beginnings to 1882 when an outpost was established by the British, and then a settlement at a fishing village renamed Jesselton after Sir Charles Jessel, of the British North Borneo Company.

To liberate North Borneo from Japanese occupation during World War II, Allied Forces heavily bombed Jesselton, leaving only three buildings standing!

Today Kota Kinabalu is a modern utilitarian city with a compact downtown area of restaurants, cafes and shopping centres predominantly constructed from concrete with streets arranged in a grid pattern that, while lacking in architectural merit, are ideal for walking. The lively waterfront is pleasant where in the evening you’ll find open air hawker stalls cooking up a feast of noodles or freshly caught seafood in giant woks. On Sundays, Gaya Street lined with restaurants and Chinese apothecaries, becomes a fresh produce and handicraft market, while nearby Australia Place named after the Australian soldiers stationed here during World War II, has backpacker accommodation, restaurants and numerous bars. Sabah Museum and the Atkinson Clock Tower are also well worth a visit.

It’s not long before visitors are charmed by the relaxed, friendly locals, the lively atmosphere of its markets and waterfront, and close proximity to attractions for day excursions. My daughter Nicky and I visited three of the five idyllic islands at nearby Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park reached by an exhilarating speedboat ride 30 minutes away.

While the islands have pretty beaches, bays and sandy coves fringed by coral reefs where you can go snorkelling, the diving sites don’t compare to those found 58 JULY (1) 2012

at islands such as Mataking, off Sabah’s east coast. Sadly illegal dynamite fishing destroyed much of the coral.

Reviving the tradition of a bygone era, the North Borneo Railway is a delight. British administrators who came to Borneo in the 1880s paved the way for the opening up of land for cultivation of tobacco, sago, tapioca, pineapples and rice, and construction of the rail line commenced in 1896. The five restored carriages are decorated in timber panelling, the exteriors painted green and cream.

Passengers join the train at Tanjung Aru Station receiving a ticket and passport as a keepsake of their journey. The vintage steam locomotive is one of the last in the world fuelled by wood.

The engine is stoked with timber and the whistle blows to sound its departure. With the windows open, we waved at locals as we passed by picturesque lush tropical scenery, paddy fields, mangrove swamps, beaches and villages. Several stops were made to explore a Chinese temple and the small town of Papar, with a vibrant local market selling exotic fruit and vegetables.

Breakfast is served on board with coffee, assorted pastries and croissants; while on the return journey, the Tiffin lunch with compartments stacked high with an assortment of curries was a treat.

At the Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort we spent several enjoyable days cocooned in paradise. With no shortage of activities, I spent my time on jungle walks, took an evening river excursion in search of fireflies and met the well-cared-for orphan orangoutans undergoing rehabilitation in the resort’s nature reserve. I also caught a local bus to visit the nearby town of Tuaran Town with a temple and fresh produce market, while Nicky spent her time relaxing by the poolside, the tropical climate well suited for indulgent lazy days.

Tanjung Aru, with a pleasant beachside setting overlooking the South China Sea is worth a detour for the great buffets at the Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort.

Excursions nearby to Kota Kinabalu also include whitewater rafting, visiting hot springs, viewing the world’s largest flower,

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Kinabalu

Travel notebook Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia Getting there From Singapore, Kota Kinabalu is a short flight away (Silk Air or Air Asia). From Kuala Lumpur, you can fly to Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan or Tawau (Malaysia Airlines or Air Asia).

Where to stay North of Kota Kinabalu, the Shangri La’s Rasa Ria Resort, provides luxurious accommodation with impressive service and attention to detail. Our slippers fitted us perfectly (a rarity since I am usually presented with a huge pair), and our fruit bowl was replenished frequently. The deluxe wing is worth the splurge for the extras, including exquisite chocolates. The hotel offers a comprehensive programme of activities with an environmental focus. Website: www.shangri-la.com Shangri La’s Tanjung Aru Resort and Spa set in a spacious tropical garden by a beach provides close proximity to the airport and has an impressive tribal art collection.

Website: www.shangri-la.com The Hyatt Regency Kinabalu is centrally located with several shopping centres just metres away and great views overlooking the South China Sea. Rooms that include access to the Club Lounge are worth the extra. Drinks and canapés in the early evening was a trip highlight. Website: www.kinabalu.regency.hyatt.com The North Borneo Railway operates twice weekly. Website: www.suteraharbour.com Mataking Reef Dive Resort is lovely, the accommodation luxurious, with Tawau only a short flight from KK (MAS or Air Asia). Website: www.mataking.com Where to eat Hawker markets are lively, great fun and provide an excellent introduction to Malaysian cuisine. KK is one of Malaysia’s most ethnically diverse cities, reflected in the variety of cuisines available including Malay, Indonesian, Filipino, Chinese, Indian and local dishes from Sabah, including jungle ferns.

More information

With a favourable exchange rate, Malaysia represents exceptional value for money. Even at high-end resorts, room rates, meals and excursions are very reasonable.

Borneo Eco Tours offer ecologically sustainable tours. Website: www.borneoecotours.com Sabah Tourism: www.sabahtourism.com Tourism Malaysia: www.tourism.gov.my The helpful staff at Sabah Tourism provided detailed responses to all my email inquiries: www.sabahtourism.com

NATIONAL EDITION

It’s not long before visitors are charmed by the relaxed, friendly locals, the lively atmosphere of its markets and waterfront, and close proximity to attractions for day excursions.

the Rafflesia, or hiking on Mount Kinabalu. Instead we headed east, ending our stay in Sabah on Mataking Island, located near Sipadan Island, one of the 10 top dive sites in the world. After a day out snorkelling, sighting turtles, rainbow coloured fish and reef sharks, we returned to find a large monitor lizard lying at the bottom of our Jacuzzi! Borneo is one of the most dramatic and exciting destinations you will ever experience, and Kota Kinabalu provides the perfect gateway.

JULY (1) 2012 59

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Well settled Sikh family in Australia seeks good natured, educated, professional match from a cultured family for their good looking, slim, fair daughter. Completed medicine (M.B.B.S), currently doing internship. Please contact singh195950@yahoo.com Seeking suitable Hindu/Jain match for our daughter, 5’1”, 22 years. Born and brought up in Sydney with Indian family values. Degree in IT. Working as a Software Consultant in Sydney. Caste no bar. Contact father in Australia on email: rlagrawal55@gmail.com Seeking well qualified match for very fair young looking Hindu lady, 54, veg, divorced, daughter living with her. He must be aged 49-55, non smoker with strong moral values.

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

Seeking suitable match (from Australia, never married) for Hindu girl, 35 years, Chartered Accountant (non-veg), living in Australia over 25 years, with eastern and western family values. Please email with all details on ganesh2011v@gmail.com Well-educated Jat Sikh family seeks professionally qualified well-settled match for their Australian citizen daughter, Aug ‘78 born, 5’ 4”, well-cultured, family oriented and highly educated with 2 Master Degrees (IT & IS). Working as an Administration Manager in a leading MNC Sydney. Please email particulars with picture to smatrimony2011@gmail.com

Seeking BRIDES

Seeking graduate Hindu girl for well established 5’10”, very fair 21/11/1968 born Australian citizen. Never married.

60 JULY (1) 2012

smoker teetotaller. Please email profile with photo to anandrao68@gmail.com

Decent Mangalorean /Goan gentleman 47 years, seeks marriage alliance from sincere attractive South Indian /Sri Lankan/ Pakistani/Bangladeshi bride aged 30 – 52.

Caste/religion barrier open. Please contact advertiser by writing or phone 5/47 First Ave Seven Hills 2147. Ph 02 9676-2512 Mob 0458 153 193. Proper address / phone contact and photograph requested.

Seeking suitable match for clean-shaven Jat Sikh Gill boy, 29 years, 5’9”. MSc. BEd (India).

Diploma in hospitality (Australia). Applied PR in 2009. Belonging to a noble and respected family with moral values. Sister married and settled in Sydney. Email australiagill@yahoo. com, mobile 0470 574 071, 0423 238 228.

Matrimonial alliance is required for my nephew, 31 years, 5’10”, fair complexion, engineering graduate, working in real estate, from respectable Hindu Punjabi family. No dowry please. Simple girl, decent education with any job in Sydney or a professional from India. Contact 02 9613-3057; 0423 084 030.

Compatible match for 1975 born, handsome, clean-shaven Sikh Khatri boy, 5’9”, two post grad degrees from India and recently finished Masters in IT from Australia. Applied for temporary resident visa (currently with full work rights) and working as Vehicle Service Agent for Hertz multinational car rental company, earning $4000 per month.

Girl should be tall, well-educated with pleasing personality, and must be form Sikh background. Early marriage; serious proposals only please. Phone 0422 102 242 or email jas_ghai01@gmail.com

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haves FASHION

winter

mustAnkle boots

By TALIA KAUR

G

one are the days of bundling up in layers of warm clothes to beat the chill of winter. Special new winter fashion trends have made it possible to look chic and trendy, while keeping warm. So here are 5 winter winners to heat up your look.

Knitted jumpers

Meet winter’s most popular fashion piece. There’s nothing more comfortable than a cozy knitted jumper and it’s become an absolute must-have this cold season. The great thing about jumpers is that they come in so many different styles and colours – from light pastel, preppy ones to dark-patterned drapey ones – so it’s impossible not to find a perfect option for you. A soft cotton or wool jumper will look great with almost everything, so don’t be afraid to let your imagination run wild this season and team them up with different textures, fabrics and patters. You could pair a pastel blue knitted jumper with some floral trousers for a feminine look. If you feel like going for something with a bit more edge, team a leather skirt with a bright knit and add a thin belt at the waist – it’s right on trend, yet so comfortable.

Faux-fur coats

We’ve seen many winter trends come and go, but a luxurious fauxfur coat will always be a timeless winter essential. It’s super stylish, yet so warm! And mainstream fashion stores are not only selling many different cuts, colours and textures, but they’re also making them affordable so there’s a coat to suit everyone. But, it can still be a challenge finding the perfect one. Depending on your sense of style, it can be tricky to pull off a full-length faux-fur coat without looking overdone, especially with the bolder colours. If you’re less of a fashionista, you can opt for a safer option such as the short vest and choose neutral or earthy tones. However, it’s important to remember that no matter if you want to go all out or play it safe, when it comes to rocking this trend, always keep the rest of your ensemble as simple as possible – in the end, you want the coat to make a statement.

NATIONAL EDITION

This trend, big last winter, is back this season and will be huge for many more winters to come. It’s chic, comfortable and practical during the frequent winter rains. There are ankle boots in every style from platform heels for a night out, to flats for a more daytime casual look.

Neutral coloured wedge boots are also a great safe option and are especially hot right now as they add height without being as attention-grabbing as bright heel boots. But if you’re looking to add an edge to your outfit, opt for a western style leather boot. If you want to go one step further, try coloured suede or animal prints, but remember to keep the rest of the outfit simple so the boots are in focus. Also, pay attention to detailing like lace-ups or buckles for a bit more style.

Try brightening this cold season up and team a pair of tan leather boots with bright coloured jeans or leggings – it adds a fresh look and is a welcome break from black.

a bright beanie can add a bit more Loud Womens detail and colour, but if you’ve chosen a bright coloured jumper, a neutral beanie will add the Sonia Rykiels finishing touch. Try experimenting with textures and prints as well.

Team a solid coloured cotton knit with a faux-fur printed beret, or a cashmere cardigan with an oversized knitted beanie. This will also help to balance the thickness of the fabrics. Also, ASOS look for details such as bows and ball tops for a more feminine style. Beanies or berets are also a really cheap accessory that can cover up any bad hair day while keeping you warm!

Coloured jeans

The perfect piece to turn these gloomy winter days around!

Just about every store has jumped on board. If you’re feeling a little unsure about whether you can pull off this trend, go for pastel colours or richer, luxurious colours like teal blue, burgundy red or emerald green. To finish it off, team it up with neutral tones such as a white shirt and tan boots. This way you’re still including some colour, but making sure it’s not too overpowering.

If you are daring and go for brighter colours, be sure to team up with earthy tones, and don’t overdo the accessories. A bright red pair of jeans teamed with a white and cream striped knitted jumper would look great. Another way to be a bit more playful is to pair it with a bold print – polka dots, nautical stripes or even floral, geometrical, leopard or zebra prints.

John Zach

Echo J Brand

Joe Frech

Religion

Berets and beanies

This year’s winter has seen berets and beanies in all different shapes, sizes and styles, and has become the ultimate topping to just about any winter ensemble. Whether you opt for a super slouchy, boho style beanie or a chic French beret, there are so many colours and Jimmy textures to suit every style.

Choo If you’re wearing a simple coat,

Miss Selfridge

JULY (1) 2012 61

entertainment

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

Rajesh Khanna recovering

Malaika Arora Khan

Photo: Indian Film Festival/Mind Blowing Films

Malaika Arora Khan in Sydney

I

t was a much quieter trip to Oz for Malaika Arora Khan this time round.

Last year she came down to Melbourne for the opening of Mind Blowing Films’ Indian Film Festival, but ended up dancing her way to the Guinness Book of Records. (She led a record number of dancers gyrating to that all-time hit Munni badnaam hui ). This year’s visit also saw her officiating at the opening of the Indian Film Festival, but in the Sydney rather than Melbourne chapter of the festival, and no, she did not bring along her dancing shoes. (Or even her husband). Instead, she opted to be a culture-vulture, spending time at the Sydney Opera House after her official duties were finished, and sampling some of the good food this city has to offer.

“Just want to chill,” she claimed, the chill in the air not bothering her at all she walked around in those sexy singlets and off-shoulder dresses…

62 JULY (1) 2012

Veteran actor Rajesh Khanna recently gave his fans a bit of a shock after landing in hospital in Mumbai for some tests, and staying there for a while. The actor, a mere shell of his flamboyant young self, has been battling health issues for some time now. His ex-wife Dimple Kapadia has been taking care of him. The 69-year-old was pleased to see worried fans lined up outside his house, waving to them and showing them the ‘V’ for victory sign.

Bollywoods celebs visiting Rajesh Khanna, aka Kaka, included actress Reena Roy, former Samajwadi Party leader Amar Singh, his close friend Anita Advani and former girlfriend Anju Mahendru. Rajesh Khanna’s daughters Twinkle and Rinke, and son-in-law Akshay Kumar also came to see him in the hospital.

But it was thespian Anupam Kher, who worked with the actor in Vijay, who spoke for all of Kaka’s colleagues and fans when he said, “Rajesh Khannaji is a part of our youth and belongs to the era that taught us about romance. He also portrayed different aspects of acting. He is the first superstar and I pray to God that he has a long and healthy life.”

Incidentally, Salman Khan made a bid to see the ailing actor after visiting hours, and was politely but firmly turned away by the hospital, much to his surprise. For once the Sallu charm didn’t quite do the trick…

Here’s wishing Kaka a quick recovery back to health!

Rahman to rock London Olympics

Grammy award winner AR Rahman will team up with Hollywood director Danny Boyle again, to compose a song for the London Olympics’ opening ceremony. The music maestro reveals it will be a Punjabi song celebrating

GUESS WHO

?

This spunky Punjabi kudi was a model before she entered Bollywood, and represented India in the Miss Universe contest (Find the answer under Caption Contest)

Indian influence in Britain. It’s another feather in the cap for this prolific, yet humble musician extraordinaire, who worked with Boyle in Oscar-winning film Slumdog Millionaire and 127 Hours.

“It’s a part of a medley in the Olympics opening ceremony, according to Danny Boyle’s creative wishes!” Rahman stated.

It has also been reported that music composer Ilayaraja’s composition Naanthaan ungappanda, from Kamal Hassan’s 1980 film Ram Lakshman will be a part of the opening ceremony too.

Thank goodness Indians in England are now well beyond the curry and cricket combination!

Esha-Bharat wedding makes Bollywood news

Actress Esha Deol married businessman Bharat Takhtani in a traditional South Indian ceremony at the ISKCON temple in the Mumbai’s Juhu suburb, following a reception attended by the best of Bollywood. The whole family of dad Dharmendra, mum Hema Malini, sister Ahana were present to wish her well and partake of the ceremony. Esha is close to her cousin Abhay Deol, who took the part of her brother, as half-brothers Sunny and Bobby were conspicuous in their absence.

The bride looked happy and resplendent in a red lehenga made of three Kanjivaram saris and gold jewellery, while Bharat looked dapper in a white sherwani with zardozi work and a maroon pagdi. The wedding outfits were designed by Neeta Lulla.

The decor at the temple was simple, yet beautiful and heavily decorated with flowers.

Hema Malini claimed she was “very happy” for her daughter, and would miss her. “It was a normal South Indian wedding, with just slight changes. I am very happy for Esha, she has found the right person. We all are very happy. I will miss her but she is going to be in Mumbai, so I am happy about that,” said Hema, looking gorgeous and elegant in a orange-red hand-woven six yard sari, which she teamed up with a green blouse and kept her hair neatly tied at the back. Esha’s dad and yesteryear star Dharmendra kept it simple with black trousers, a white shirt and grey jacket.

Present at the ceremony were Bollywood’s biggies including Amitabh and Abhishek Bachchan, legendary actress Vyjayanthimala looking evergreen in a purple and orange traditional sari, Shatrughan Sinha’s wife Poonam Sinha and her twin sons - Luv and Kush. Hema’s niece and actress Madhoo, as well as Vinod Khanna, Manoj Kumar, Anu Malik, Rani Mukherji, Fardeen Khan Ramesh Sippy, Sandip Soparrkar and wife Jesse Randhwa were

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Akshay Kumar

interested in dance and music will know about Indian movies. It has a lot of music and dance and colours in them,” Speer said recently. “I liked Hrithik Roshan as an actor and dancer in the Indian movie Kites and have seen him dancing in Dhoom 2.”

Step Up Revolution is the fourth instalment of dance movie Step Up, due to release in end July.

Speer is an American music video director and has done several music videos for Mexican singer Belinda.

So will Hrithik be buzzing from Bollywood to make a hit in Hollywood?

Let’s wait and see….

Aamir expounds views on marriage

In an increasingly preachy tone of voice, actor Aamir Khan feels that the institution of marriage in India has changed manifold and urges parents Akshay as Krishna in to ensure that their children are wellOh My God equipped to take decisions about Akshay Kumar is back with a their life partner independently. vengeance, and this time it’s in a “There is constant change in heavenly avatar. Debut posters of his society and the concept of marriage latest film Oh My God in which he plays AR Rahman has changed for the better; the modern day Lord Krishna, show marriage is now looked upon as the star riding a motorcycle through companionship,” Aamir said. the clouds with a bright colourful sky “Although this concept is in the background. This time Akshay good, we should empower has teamed up with Paresh Rawal in his our kids with right tools to production venture, who appears in the be able to make their own second poster. It shows Paresh, who decisions and think on a plays Kanahaiya, standing with a smile broader level. Marriage should on his face and gods and goddesses not bring along fear with it. We surrounding him. should provide ample support Based on Umesh Shukla’s Gujarati to our kids and teach them to play Kanji Viruddh, the movie is about live happily,” he added. unconventional happenings in normal Aamir was chatting with day to day lives, and is due for a latelisteners on a radio show, talking September release. about his ground-breaking series Now Akshay must be feeling his age Satyamev Jayate. as the actor’s former karate student The 44-year-old, who made his Prateek Chakravorty has turned television debut with Satyamev director with From Sydney With Love, Jayate feels the show has brought and actually calls the star ‘uncle’! him closer to the people of India, “He calls me Akshay uncle. and says every citizen should work Backstage he asked me if he should to make the country a better place call me Akshay uncle or not? I love to live. what comes from the heart,” said “The effect Satyamev Jayate has the 44-year-old Akshay recently. taken all over the country proves the “Will you believe me if I say I fact that we are addressing genuine used to teach him karate? He issues that are prevalent in India. I was a good student but then he have, on a personal level, come closer stopped,” added the actor. “He through this initiative to our country,” always wanted to be a director he said. “For any country to be happy, and an actor, and I am proud Esha De we need to join hands to work towards that he has become an actor, ol-Bharat Takhtani the common goal... We should all work he has directed his first film together for the betterment of the and he has taken forward his country.” grandfather Pramod Films’ Aamir also talked about the response name ahead”. that his show has received till now From Sydney With Love stars and says a change has already been Prateek himself along with Bidita brought in society.

Bag, Sharad Malhotra, Evelyn Sharma “We have crossed the halfway and Karan Sagoo, and will release in mark and have received positive end-July. response throughout the country.

Looks like exciting times ahead for The healthcare episode has helped Akshay fans, so watch this space. improve generic medicines, the health minister is also supporting us Hrithik impresses Hollywood and so is the government,” he said.

Despite being a booming business, Sharing an incident about the Bollywood’s actors have found it hard bias against the girl child, Aamir to find a firm foothold in big sister recounted, “At a Delhi wedding, Hollywood’s hallowed halls. But now, a family member said a guest apna Hrithik Roshan as found a fan blessed the bride that she will in Scott Speer, director of Step Up give birth to boys at which point Revolution, who is impressed with the the other members present Indian star’s acting and dancing.

Khanna sh stated that a girl child is equally “Yes, of course, anyone who is e Raj NATIONAL EDITION

CAPTION CONTEST

What’s the chitchat between Vidya Balan and Farhan Akhtar here?

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

Last issue Caption Contest winning entry

What’s the chitchat between Hema Malini and Rekha here?

Rekha: If not together in Jalsa, now Jaya and I are together in the same House (Rajya Sabha) Saba Nabi Wagga Wagga NSW

Saba wins music CD of new Hindi film Bol Bachchan

welcome and such gender bias should not exist. I was reading in the newspaper that the people are now going to the police, child helpline - so change is evident (against the bias) and I really believe in India and our people.”

The success of Satyamev Jayate has proved naysayers wrong. “People told me that a show on social issues would be a failure, but now people from (Jammu and) Kashmir to Kanyakumari are associated with the show and want to see change in our society. We should use this opportunity to plan and contribute the most. The required change should be brought about inside,” Aamir said.

Well, there’s no doubt that this is just the beginning of the great heights that the show is bound to reach, in bringing awareness of social issues to the forefront. Good luck to Aamir, the man with the Midas touch!

Answer to GUESS WHO? Gul Panag

also there to bless the couple.

Sahara’s chief Subroto Roy, industrialist Mukesh Ambani’s wife Neeta Ambani and Sunil Rane of Atharva Group of Institutes, who is a family friend, were among the other high profile guests.

Top notch Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders too attended the wedding, from Raj Purohit, Mumbai chief of BJP, to party president Nitin Gadkari to national vice president Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, all attended the event.

The reception saw even more of Bollywood and India’s elite attending, with an invitation sent out to Sonia Gandhi who couldn’t attend due to security reasons. She has however, invited the newly married duo to visit her at her residence.

Here’s wishing the happy couple all the very best.

JULY (1) 2012 63

entertainment

Cine Talk

A romp into raw, rugged heartland Film: Gangs Of Wasseypur CAST: Manoj Bajpayee, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Richa Chadha, Huma Quershi, Reema Sen, Piyush Mishra and others DirectoR: Anurag Kashyap

B

leeding brilliance in almost every frame, breathing fire through every available orifice that the characters possess, and whipping up a kind of frenzied, flamboyant bloodshed that was once associated with the Spaghetti Westerns of Sergio Leone and Sam Peckinpah, Gangs Of Wasseypur is, briefly, one huge gang-bang. No protection provided.

From its bludgeoning opening when merciless marauders ambush a powerful enemy’s fortress-like home with armylike meticulousness, Gangs Of Wasseypur takes us into a world where compassion is a dinosaur, forgiveness a faux pas, and kindness an unforgivable sin.

Welcome to Kashyap’s Wasseypur. This is no country for the weak-hearted. Countrymade guns go off without warning, bombs are hurled from two-wheelers and abuses fly out even faster than the bullets. If you are the kind of moviegoer who doesn’t enjoying hearing and seeing the unimaginable things that can’t be done to various parts of the human anatomy, then I suggest you try something more sugary and safe.

The world of Wasseypur is soaked in blood and revenge.

The mafia in one form or another rules the little town. To 64 JULY (1) 2012

mainstream Hindi moviegoers, this is not an unknown territory.

At least four other recent films - Paan Singh Tomar, Ishaqzaade, Rowdy Rathore and Shanghai have hurled audiences right into the notorious anarchy of the north Indian small-town where the barrel of the gun speaks an irresistible language of mayhem.

It’s a strangely dichotomous world where music and songs (Sneha Khan) mock the characters’ subverted herogiri.

While the characters indulge in their unmanned violence, viewers become numbed participants in the rites of the wrong-doing.

The almost-ritualistic slaughter of all rules of civil conduct in Gangs Of Wasseypur is not redeemed by the presence of any hero.

Even the main protagonist in the blood thirsty saga is a certifiable rogue named Sardar Khan. As played by Manoj Bajpayee in what is arguably his most feisty and filled-out performance to date, Sardar Khan is a second-generation criminal and social outcast.

In the film’s unforgettable prologue, Sardar’s father (Jaideep Ahlawat) serves as a henchman to the powerful local politician (Tigmanshu Dhulia).

Politician has daddy killed by a hired assassin and Sonny-boy grows up swearing revenge.

This in a nutshell, could be the plot for a cheesy 1980s potboiler. In taking the grammar and language of the formulistic vendetta drama from the 1970s and 1980s and converting it into a crackling saga of compelling contemporary currency, Kashyap turns all the rules of mainstream Hindi cinema on its head. He uses the language of Manmohan Desai and Narinder Bedi’s cinema. But he applies these to characters who are as far removed from the world of escapism as Sicily is from Wasseypur.

Oh, did we really say Gangs Of Wasseypur was derived from The Godfather? Nah. The two worlds are inter-connected only by their legacy of lineage and violence. Beyond that Kashyap’s mode of storytelling, and the way his characters loom over the proceedings without become caricatural, are frighteningly original and as liberated of reference-points as any of the path-breaking films on gangwars that have emerged out of Hollywood in the last 25 years.

Kashyap celebrates the drama of the grotesque with the relish of a seven-’coarse’ meal. We can count the number of thuds and stabbing sounds every time a victim is cornered and done to death. Violence on this level has never really been a part

of mainstream Hindi cinema before. The end of cinematic niceties is here. Take it or leave it.

Kashyap, in Wasseypur, legitimizes gore with glorious gusto. In the gang war that he portrays with such feral immediacy, victims are chopped up piece by piece, their body parts sent to the butcher’s to eliminate legal evidence. A finger floating in a cesspool of stale blood is a commonplace sight in the world of unchecked mayhem that Kashyap has constructed with such casual resplendence.

His team of technicians are unconditionally mired in the mood of violence. Rajeev Ravi’s camera mows through the imaginary world of Wasseypur with a devilish dispassion.

The film looks layered and even luminous in texture.

But the tone of narration is detached. The dereliction of the damned and doomed characters is neither romanticized nor demonized.

Indeed Gangs Of Wasseypur invents a new language of cinematic expression. It creates a world where the characters inhabit a universe of vapid stagnant violence. And yet the narration, never short of breath even in the most breathless state of violence, exudes a kind of vibrancy that comes from neither rejection not

acceptance of an undesirable situation. It comes from within the characters. As they battle each other in bitter futile feuds, they also seem to be battling the demons within themselves. The synthesis of what lies within and without is devastating.

And yet for all its outward show of ruthless machismo Gangs Of Wasseypur is a film with a heart.

There is a rather enticing love story featuring Manoj, his screen wife (debutante Richa Chadha) and the other woman (Reema Sen) tucked away in the folds of the ferocious tale.

Manoj’s wife is a very happy happening in this sad but savagely funny tale. She is quite the discovery of the year, and that too in a film mottled with exceptional performances by Manoj, Nawazuddin as his son (more of him in Wasseypur 2), Tigmanshu Dhulia who is clenched, controlled and combative as the villain in chief, Pankaj Tripathi riveting as Manoj’s belligerent enemy, Piyush Mishra remarkably restrained and wise as Manoj’s mentor and guide, and Huma Qureshi, another whammy performer who we will see more of in the sequel.

In fact, every character, big or small, is cast with what looks like first-and-last options. You can’t imagine any other actor playing any of the myriad parts.

Brutal, brilliant, dark, sinister, terrifying in its violence and yet savagely funny in the way human life is disregarded, Gangs Of Wasseypur is one helluva romp into the raw and rugged heartland. Not to be missed. I can’t wait to see the sequel. But be warned. Avoid meals half an hour before and after viewing.

Subhash K. Jha

www.indianlink.com.au

Uninteresting story, flat jokes T

here are many occasions in this three-tiered love story when the two protagonists simply run out of words as the dialogue slumps into an embarrassing silence.

This, you feel, is very much in character. On paper, I am sure Teri Meri Kahaani must have seemed like a terrific 3-in-1. A sumptuous feast of role and accent transference for the charming pair. Shahid Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra are among the best talent we have today. They are versatile, confident, good-looking and simply cool. Director Kunal Kohli gives them three different love stories to sink their decalcified teeth into.

The problem starts early. None of the three stories is inspired or even interesting. The highpoints in each story are so weak we don’t know when they arrive.

Some of the material that has gone into telling the triple-tiered story frankly appears to be a secret joke where the punchline is known only to the writers.

For example in the segment in London 2011 Shahid and Priyanka are named Krish and

Radha and the screechy girl who comes in-between them (Neha Sharma) is, believe it or not, Meera.

This self-consciously mythologized modern day love triangle prompts a friend of the hero to quip, “Yeh Radha aur Krishna ke beech mein Meera kahan se aa gayi?”

Well, LOL to that. Krish and Radha often resort to smileys and LOLs to express their growing fondness. The smileys remain singularly isolated in their amusement. There is not a moment when we empathise with the protagonists or feel the intended flow of their love for one another. What we see are two stars trying to breathe life into a mutual affection that never quite takes off.

It gets worse. The two other stories are even less engaging.

The one set in the film industry resorts to painstaking periodicity to recreate Mumbai in 1960. A tram crosses Mumbai’s heartland.

To his credit the art designer tries hard to get the exteriors right.

Though some of it is so shallow you feel Kunal Kohli is attempting

the recreate the celluloid version of a high school play where the props are borrowed from the furniture-wali aunty’s store.

And by the way the Lata Mangeshkar-Kishore Kumar duet Likha hai tere ankhon mein from the Dev Anand starrer Teen Deviyaan which plays in the background in a street scene featuring Shahid and Prachi Desai, did not exist in 1960. It came five years later.

That brings us to the music and choreography, so essential to evoking periodicity specially when the lead pair dances so well.

But getting Shahid to do Shammi Kapoor? Bad idea. Very bad idea.

Shahid’s measured steps would have made Shammi LOL. The worst story of the three is the one set in pre-Partition Punjab. It almost seems to spoof Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s 1942: A Love Story. Like Anil Kapoor in Chopra’s film, Shahid cares not a hoot about India’s independence.

He cares only about “love-shove”.

And please take the ‘shove’ seriously. The grinning rogue likes to put it in wherever he gets space.

And we aren’t talking about his tractor.

The attempts in the pre-Partition segment to instil a sense of patriotic pride, is shamefully baggy.

The Gora Log are played by junior artistes whose only credential to represent British India is the colour of their skin. The patriotic Indians get to shout Vande Mataram in freshly-stitched kurtas and tops. Mercifully we are spared a re-mix.

The clothes suggest a close affinity between boutique wisdom and periodicity. And that seems to be the prevalent mood of the romance. The emotions seem to be obtained off the shelf.

Priyanka and Shahid struggle hard to look deeply interested in the lines and in each other.

It’s a losing battle. There’s only so much you can do with conspicuously corny lines like, “Are we like those couples who talk on the sms and online and have nothing to say when they come face to face?”

Even if they are, do we care?

Just why Kunal Kohli, a director

who has shown some sensitivity in handling the man-woman relationship, chose to make this film is mystery solvable only by the actors who agreed to be part of the endeavour.

Subhash K. Jha

Film: Teri Meri Kahaani CAST: Shahid Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra DirectoR: Kunal Kohli

A minimum-fuss crime drama

W

ith a kind of brisk business-like immediacy and the least amount of fuss, Maximum takes us into the world of shootout killings and the internecine war in Mumbai’s police department which threatens to destroy the very institution built to mend the wounds and fissures in the social fabric.

Writer-director Kabeer Kaushik seems to be a born minimalist.

His earlier film Saher was also steeped in the khaki colour.

In Maximum the world of legally-enforced corruption is created with such a lack of backprojection, history and vocalized subtexts that you often feel the director takes his audience for granted.

This is not the case. Kaushik presumes that we are intelligent enough to enter the murky morally ambivalent world of his characters without being led by the hand.

Naseeruddin Shah, who plays a ruthless encounter cop Arun Inamdar, is introduced to us when a victim lies bleeding in front of the cop. Characteristically the director plunges into the scene of crime when the dark deed is done. We see Inamdar watching the victim bleed to death and then pumping two bullets into the chap to ensure there’s no unfinished business here.

This is a world of unmitigated NATIONAL EDITION

immorality. Bullets are fired not to stop but to merchanidise crime. And the lawmakers are shown to be as corrupt as the ones they set out to nab and mend.

Pratap Pandit, as played by Sonu Sood, is a man of a few words, much action. We are not given a chance to know him closely. He shifts gears so often we’re left looking briefly at gaping wounds that can never heal in our socio-political system.

The narration assumes a peculiar pace. As guns roar and Daniel George plays out an elegiac evocative background score to underline the senselessness of the violence, we can see the characters’ self imposed emptiness in the face of the volatile noise that they’ve created around their lives. The hollowness hits you in the head more than the heart. And when the emotions seize the plot in a vice-like grip we feel terribly sorry for the characters for the death trap that they’ve built for one another and finally themselves.

The film opens in 2003 at the height of the encounter killings in Mumbai. Two encounter specialists played by Sonu and Naseer are at loggerheads.

Admirably the director doesn’t use the two principal characters to form a central conflict. Kaushik’s narration is as ruthless and stripped of

humour and other sources of cinematic solace as the world his characters inhabit. A certain amount of familiarity with the world of encounter killings is assumed on the audiences’ part.

We are expected to understand the subverted value-system of the encounter cops who do their social cleansing and in the process get so embroiled in blood, their hands are soaked in the very blood that they are meant to wash away.

Hence our ‘hero’ Pratap (based on a real-life encounter specialist) is shown to kill criminals, extort money from builders and businessman and hobnob with the powerful and profance. And yet he returns home to a loving wife (Neha Dhupia) and a daughter. The father-daughter scenes are done with a tremulous tenderness.

Sonu invests immense emotion in these scenes. His performance takes him through several moral dilemmas. Years pass. Sonu’s body language expresses the deplorable shift in power equations. Here’s a performance that again proves this underrated actor’s unimpeachable versatility.

“When you are slipping you either fight back or you keep quiet,” he tells his journalistfriend, played by Amit Sadh.

They share keema-pao at an Irani restaurant. Where the cop used to pay, now, years later,

the scribe does. A subtle illustration of a power-shift that says so much about the socio-economic equations of Mumbai.

The journalist’s character remains a kind of sutradhar. By the end of the film we really don’t know who is in the crime folds for the money and who’s there for the power.

Maximum is a film that’s far more in-charge of its out-of-control sharp-shooting cops than it seems. Yes, there have been any number of films about encounter cops. But this one gets at the underbelly of desolation and isolation of such cops as effectively as Shimit Amin’s Ab Tak Chappan.

There are some brilliantly executed shootouts.

A layered sharp and sagacious look at the internecine world of encounter cops, Maximum is a minimum-fuss crime drama where the characters are so austere in their emotions they somehow seem to be constantly shadow-dancing with their conscience.

The performances by Sonu and Naseer Shah propel the plot to a gripping summit. But there isn’t enough of Naseer. Vinay Pathak as a UP politician and

Amit as a journalist, both trying to make sense of Mumbai’s confounding cosmopolitanism, add considerably to the film’s powerful personality.

For Sonu Maximum is a new beginning.

Subhash K. Jha

Film: Maximum CAST: Naseeruddin Shah, Sonu Sood, Neha Dhupia, Amit Sadh, and Vinay Pathak Writer-Director: Kabeer Kaushik

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starsforetell

TAROT

predictions for JuLY 2012

By nancy JADE ALTHEA www.nancysood.com

Aries March 21 - April 19 This month, you will be enjoying great health and a vibrant amount of energy. The cards indicate that you will be feeling a lot better with your work situation. You will be thinking of spending more time with a loved one, and want to make a commitment. There is also an indication here that you will be thinking of taking on a new health regime. A short holiday is indicated. Your home will also be on your mind this month.

Taurus April 20 - May 20 This month, your attention will be on romance and love. The cards indicate a time of feeling super sexy and your creative juices will be flowing. There is a good job offer around, so you will need to decide what to do. Decisions will have to be made as you will be tempted to go for the offer. On the other hand, you are doing well in your current job. There will also be a new health regime around you.

Gemini May 21 - June 20 There is a possibility that you will want to change things around your home and re-decorate. The cards indicate a time for making plans and re-assessing your life and future. There are a lot of changes around, you will be feeling full of energy and will enjoy the coming surprises. There is an indication that you will be looking at shedding a few pounds and starting a new, healthy eating pattern. Your car may give you some problems this month.

cancer June 21 - July 20 This month, there will be a lot of communication flowing, and you will also be travelling. Be careful with work, as you may get into trouble by saying the wrong things. There is someone who is trying to get you into trouble, and will be pressing all the wrong buttons. Keep cool and try to rise above the situation.

Be careful about your spending, as you will be tempted to buy some things you may find you do not need.

Leo July 23 - Aug 22 This month, you are going to be a very busy person. There will be some health issues around a family member which will cause stress. Try not to overeat or over indulge, as you will feel very bloated and sick. You may need to get some food testing done as you may be allergic to some foods. The cards show that you need to be strong as a friend will be asking for a loan, and money is tight.

Virgo Aug 23 - Sep 22 The month will be all about accumulation of assets, money and power. You are looking to make changes and are in the mood to make things happen immediately. Take care of losing your temper, as family matters will frustrate you. You could take on a new project that you have been thinking of doing. You can capitalise on an opportunity. There are some amazing results to be had if you just go for it and take a leap of faith.

Libra Sep 23 - Oct 22 This month, you will be in a romantic mood. You will be feeling confident and able to impress the one you love. There are chances of greater recognition at work. Take care of your health, as there is a nagging headache around you. You need to take in more fresh air and exercise. Lately you have been neglecting yourself and the stress is building up. You may want to buy yourself some new clothes and change your image.

Scorpio Oct 23 - Nov 21 This month should be a very happy time. Your thoughts are on the future and its possibilities. Look for surprises around the home front, they could really be great! Your career will get a major boost.

The cards indicate a time of recognition and rewards. A member of staff at your workplace or business may leave suddenly and cause problems. There is secrecy around your family and you will feel left out. Build some bridges, and don’t be too stubborn.

Sagittarius Nov 22 - Dec 21 Your career will take prime focus this month, and it is a great time for real advancement. Your mind is jumping all over the place with possibilities for the future. Relationship issues will probably be a major motivating force for you. Your partner will want advancements in the relationship. There are some issues you need to deal with before you take this decision. There seems to be mistrust and you need to have an open discussion about moving forward.

Capricorn Dec 22 - Jan 19 If you are looking to travel, now is the time. Pack those bags and don’t look back. You need a break. Your career will take a major boost as you turn the tables on any ongoing confusion.

Watch those purse strings as there will be a tendency to spend more then you need to. You love life needs a boost, but you will be spending more time socialising. Your popularity will grow and you will feel better about yourself.

Aquarius Jan 20 - Feb 18 Have you been watching the family budget? If you haven’t, you will. It will be your key focus this month, but not in a burdensome way. You may surprise yourself at your own creativity when it comes to juggling financial responsibilities this month. The cards are indicating at time of great planning and also looking at what you would like to do in future. There is a possibility that you may consider studying and furthering your interests in spirituality.

Pisces Feb 19 - March 20 This month sees the focus on committed relationships, and you will have ample energy in that area. Some problems or old grievances could surface, and you will have to deal with them. Take time out for yourself in case of stressful situations at work. There are some matters that you are not dealing with, regarding paperwork and matters around the house. Take care of your knees this month as you seem to be suffering with some aches and pains.

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JULY (1) 2012 67

backchat

Caring canine After three sleepless nights, it is a revelation to discover a retriever worth his weight in gold

S

BY LP AYER

even hundred select guests out of the seven billion people on this planet were enjoying crisp cucumber sandwiches washed down with a variety of liquids at Beth’s backyard. The HRH (Her Royal Horde) of corgis were lolling around the high heels of the wellheeled, munching diamond-shaped jubilee cake baked for this special occasion.

The four-day feverish (the wisecracking old Duke felt a bit that way) fervour of the Queen’s gala event did not catch on Down Under. However a week later we, the loyal citizens of Oz, enjoyed a long weekend of beer and barbies to mark another tick on the chronological calendar of the gracious grand dame of Bucks.

Even as the cushy corgis were rerecovering from their hangover, I was having a dog’s day thanks to my spouse, a staunch dog lover who once used to instantly panic at the sight of even a puny pooch.

During the long weekend we were delivered a golden retriever, Enzo, along with two bags - one containing his special food, and the other his gear including a mattress, blanket, purple jacket, ID card and wait for it - a 90page manual of instructions with specific commands! Why all this fuss? Because Enzo is no ordinary dog. One day he will be the eyes and even ears of helpless humans whose dark world he will light up, helping them live a near-normal life. Dogs like Enzo, according to the Royal Society for the Blind, cost around $20k to be trained from a playful pup to a purposeful guide dog. So it is no wonder the Society takes extraordinary steps in drafting a manual and setting up protocols in choosing trainers and carers for these canines. A number of good-hearted mums and dads volunteer their services. My wife enrolled her and myself, overriding my hesitation, as volunteers.

The seachange in my wife’s cynophobia to dogs came about after we acquired a lovely Labrador who lived a contended 15 years, receiving cuddles and cookies in carton-loads from all the four in our family. After a sudden stroke and an agonising two weeks he 68 JULY (1) 2012

had to be put down, much to our sadness. His departure left a big void, and to fill that my wife wanted another pet pooch. As any dog owner would vouch, losing a pet dog is a heart-wrenching experience. We did not want to go down that path, but we still wanted to enjoy canine company.

And the RSB seemed the best option as it offered three choices – full time trainee/carers for 12 months, or weekend carers, or occasional care givers when a regular one wants a break. We put our names for the third option and expected immediate enrolment.

Not so easy.

We were asked every possible personal detail, fronted up for two interviews followed by police clearance, all of which took several weeks. Strangely, we brought forth into the world two lovely children without any of this rigmarole.

Perhaps it’s not a bad idea to subject every couple to some tests to see if they are fit and proper persons to be parents.

Once on the volunteer list, we

had a few training sessions with dogs. Having trained our black labby Fred (it is closer to truth that he trained us to his way), we thought it was a breeze to care for Enzo just for three nights. I was told he was well toilet-trained, and once he had relieved himself before bedtime, he would not bother us till the next morning.

Being groomed as a guide dog, Enzo is to stay close to the human he is intended to serve, according to the manual. So I slept in a spare room with Enzo lying on the floor close by. Around midnight I felt his breath close to my face. Signal for a time out? On that biting cold night I took him to the backyard and kept repeating ‘busy busy’, the special command for him to do the job. But all that he did was busily sniff around as I stood shivering in my pyjamas. Back to bed, where it took me some time to get back to sleep. Two hours later, another nudge and another outing. It was action replay with no action. Tossing in bed to recapture my broken sleep, I wondered if

we were wise in hosting him while my wife, who had volunteered my services, was blissfully sleeping.

Around 4am was another Enzo wake-up call. Third time lucky, I thought. But this outing was without any outcome, like the previous ones. The next two nights were no different. Tired after three sleepless nights and with bleary eyes, I packed his bags for his departure. As his full-time carer came to collect him I felt how close we had become in just three days, and was sad to see him go.

He had followed me like a shadow which, at times, was disconcerting.

But Enzo, being programmed as a guide dog, is expected to follow every movement of his sightless human charge, to keep any harm out of their way. We humans place such a big burden on these creatures to care for the visually challenged, and they deserve every ounce of care and love lavished on them. Once this dawned on me, three sleepless nights were too small a price to pay for the experience!

We were asked every possible personal detail, fronted up for two interviews followed by police clearance, all of which took several weeks.

But Enzo, being programmed as a guide dog, is expected to follow every movement of his sightless human charge, to keep any harm out of their way.

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entertainment

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

Madhuri Dixit

Rowdy party!

Over Rs 100 crore at the box office, and still going strong – so why shouldn’t the cast and crew of Rowdy Rathore celebrate in rowdy style? Black was the colour for the lead pair as Akshay Kumar wore a black shirt and Sonakshi Sinha sizzled in a short black dress.

Filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali, who has produced the movie, and Siddharth Roy Kapoor of UTV Motion Pictures were also part of the party.

Director Prabhu Deva, whose Wanted was also a runaway hit was thrilled with the results of the movie saying, “I am very happy that both my films crossed the Rs.100 crore mark. Now I am scared of making my third film as people’s expectations have increased.”

But the fans of Rowdy Rathore may well be pleased to hear that the rowdy team are looking at a sequel or prequel, but discussions are yet to take off and indeed, were being discussed at the party, as hinted by Siddharth Roy Kapoor.

For young Sonakshi Sinha, Rowdy Rathore is just her second film and her second hit after Dabangg, and she is absolutely ecstatic about the success of both films. “I want all my films to do well, so I keep my fingers crossed,” she said.

Directed by Prabhu Deva, Rowdy Rathore is a remake of the 2006 Telugu hit Vikramarkudu starring Ravi Teja. It marked Akshay’s comeback to action after seven years. And what a comeback!

Good luck to the winning team of rowdy Rathores!

Madhuri’s a true star Bollywood diva Madhuri Dixit has pulled off a first, thanks to her loyal and somewhat astronomical (literally) fans. The Choli Ke Peeche actress now has a star in the Orion constellation named after her, tweeted the star recently. So now she is truly a shining star.

A group of 13 members of The Empress Fanpage met the actress recently on the sets of dance reality show Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, which she is judging, to present her the star certificate by Star Foundation which reads: “A celestial body in the sky above has been named in honour of Madhuri Dixit-Nene and is officially located in the constellation Orion.”

For Madhuri, it has been a glorious journey since she debuted with Abodh in 1984 and received wider public recognition with hits like Tezaab in 1988 and 1989 release Ram Lakhan. Big hits followed like Saajan, Dil, Beta, Hum Aapke Hain Koun and Dil To Pagal Hai, launching her to irrevocable stardom.

The 45-year-old has won five Filmfare Awards and holds the record for receiving a maximum number of best actress nominations at the Filmfare Awards. In 2008, she was awarded the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award, by the government of India.

In 1999, the actress married Shriram Madhav Nene, a cardiovascular surgeon and relocated to the US. After a sabbatical for almost a decade, Madhuri has now shifted base back to Mumbai, along with her husband and two sons.

Madhuri now has Vishal Bhardwaj’s Dedh Ishqiya and Anubhav Sinha’s Gulab Gang in her kitty, with more to follow for sure. So all the best to this shining star, 52 JUNE (2) 2012 may her career never wane!

GUESS WHO

?

Joker jodi

Exciting news for Akshay Kumar and Sonakshi Sinha fans, who enjoyed their performance in Rowdy Rathore. Shirish Kunder’s Joker will star the pair, but unfortunately in 2D, as the business heads backing the movie have scrapped plans to release it in 3D, considering the fate of recent 3D films at the box office.

Some recent 3D films in Hindi include RA.One, Don 2: The King Is Back and Dangerous Ishq, but they didn’t make the expected impact on the audience.

Akshay plays a character who returns to his hometown - a place that’s so remote that it’s not even on the map. But a sequence of events puts the little town not just on the country’s map, but makes it the focus of the entire globe.

The story also involves aliens.

So will the Joker jodi be as successful as their last rowdy release? Well, let’s wait and see!

Items galore for Rani!

When Rani Mukherji does something, you can be assured that she’ll go all out to do a great job. So is it really surprising that in Anurag Kashyap’s Aiyya, she is doing not just one, but three hot item numbers?

“The film is a mixture of reality and dream and Rani will be seen doing three item songs in her dream in the film. Amit Trivedi has composed six songs for the film and three of them will be Rani’s item songs,” said Sachin Kundalkar, director of Aiyya.

Apparently the movie is about a woman who finds a man desirable because he smells good. Rani plays a Marathi girl in the movie and is paired opposite southern star Prithvi Raj. The director says it is a fresh pairing.

Kundalkar is over the moon, as he’s been wanting to work with Rani for years.

Luckily the script excited her, and Rani came on board. The Bengali beauty had to undergo language training to perfect the character of a Marathi girl, but this was cakewalk for the hardworking actress, who ended up being a complete Marathi girl on the sets. Rani, last seen in No One Killed Jessica, will be in a completely different avatar for this film, and it seems promising. The film will release around Dusserah, around the last week of October. So Rani’s fans can relax and enjoy the wait, because when the film releases, it’s sure to sizzle!

From real to reel: Reality inspires more Bollywood films She may not have hit it big in Hindi films but she did a pretty good job in southern films and on TV (Find (Findthe theanswer answerunder underCaption CaptionContest) Contest)

Be it gangster Manya Surve’s death in a gunfight, “bikini killer” Charles Sobhraj’s audacious jailbreak or the bloody 26/11 Mumbai terror attack, real-life incidents are finding their way on to reel, spurring Indian cinema’s gradual move towards more realistic cinema.

Filmmakers like Ram Gopal Varma,

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“An alternative has opened up.

Earlier people wanted an alternative, but it wasn’t there. Now because of multiplexes, new studios and more money, because of economic liberalisation, people are willing to make fresh films,” Banerjee said.

Adds actress Neha Dhupia, “It is nice to see that we have some breakthrough directors who have come forward and are willing to make such films. What’s even better is that they have the support of the people, who have the money and people who have the talent.”

Earlier films like No One Killed Jessica, Not A Love Story, Ragini MMS, Monica, Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey and Rakta Charitra have also been inspired by real-life incidents.

It’s a welcome move forward to a more impressive variety of real-life cinema, in addition to Bollywood’s commercial charisma.

Kudos to the film-makers displaying their bold side!

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kherjee

Alka Yagnik, Kumar Sanu in homage to Mehdi Hassan

hassa

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What’s the chitchat between Hema Malini and Rekha here? send in your responses to info@indianlink.com.au and win a surprise prize

Last issue Caption Contest winning entry

Anurag’s reward

After his film Gangs of Wasseypur received critical acclaim, filmmaker Anurag Kashyap decided to treat himself and bought a car. Amazing humility in these materialistic times. “So got my first vehicle that I bought myself, a Mahindra XUV, super and 100 percent Indian. Proud,” Kashyap tweeted recently.

The filmmaker, who is known for making critically acclaimed movies like Dev D, Gulaal and Udaan revealed that it took him nearly two decades to buy his own vehicle. Of course, he could afford it thanks to the release of his new film which is about the coal and scrap trade mafia in Wasseypur in Jharkhand. It features an ensemble cast including Jaideep Ahlawat, Manoj Bajpai, Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Richa Chadda.

Gangs of Wasseypur was screened at the just-concluded 2012 Sydney Film Festival in the official competition section (the first Indian film in this category), and at the Directors’ Fortnight, an independently-curated, non-competitive event at the 65th Cannes International Film Festival. The movie is making waves within the industry, for its gritty, realistic and hard-hitting take on the coal mafia.

Not everyone’s cup of tea, but certainly another good one from Anurag, and he has a car to prove it!

mehdi

CAPTION CONTEST

Bollywood singers Alka Yagnik and Kumar Sanu visited the grave of Pakistani ghazal maestro Mehdi Hassan in Karachi to pay their respects.

Mehdi Hassan’s death marked

What’s the chitchat between Uday Chopra and Parineeti Chopra here?

Uday: Yeah right, at least you won’t have to change your surname if you get hitched with me!

Mohit Malhotra Stanmore NSW Mohit wins a double pass to new Hindi film Shanghai

an end of an epoch in the subcontinent’s music history, they said. No one will ever be able to fill the vacuum created by his demise.

Alka said she had grown up listening to his ballads and was in love with his songs Dono jahan teri mohabbat main har kay and Woh ja raha hay koi. The India-born singer died of breathing complications at a private nursing home in Karachi June 13. Hassan, who has a huge fan following around the world, had been suffering from lung, chest and urinary tract ailments for the past many years. The singers had gone to Pakistan to attend the last rites of the legendary singer but could not do so, as they could not obtain a security clearance.

Answer to GUESS WHO?

Sanjay Gupta and Anurag Kashyap have sought inspiration from notorious cases and incidents and tried to portray them on the big screen.

After spotlighting corruption in police in his film Department, Varma has started working on a film based on the November 26, 2008 Mumbai attacks, in which about 170 people were killed. The film went on floors in March this year.

Gupta’s Shootout at Wadala starring John Abraham, Anil Kapoor, Kangna Ranaut, Sonu Sood, Tusshar Kapoor and Manoj Bajpayee, will chronicle Mumbai Police’s first-ever registered shoot-out, in which Surve was shot dead. The incident took place in Wadala in 1982.

Gupta says it is a challenge to recreate the bygone era.

“It is the most challenging film which I have shot till date. It covers the years 197881. Everything has changed, including Mumbai, and getting that right was a difficult task,” he said.

Gupta’s film, however, bears a close link to reality as he has obtained permission to name the characters after the real-life policemen involved in the incident.

Meanwhile, director Kabeer Kaushik is gearing up for the release of Maximum set in Mumbai during the early 2000s, when the nexus between land mafia and politicians was at its height. It features Sonu Sood and Naseeruddin Shah in prominent roles.

Sonu believes the increased number of crimes has propelled the use of reallife incidents in film scripts.

“There were times when people were making films on real subjects and real cinema, but later it faded out. Lately there is a lot of movement in our society, whether it is crime, scams; so filmmakers get more reasons or incidents to make films,” said Sonu.

“People are running short of subjects, they don’t have thousands of subjects; so they hunt for those topics and things that happen around us and they make films on these,” he added.

Filmmaker Kumar Mangat is planning to bring Sobhraj’s 1986 Tihar jailbreak saga on celluloid in Jailbreak, while director Vivek Agnihotri’s Buddha in Traffic Jam is also based on true incidents.

Anurag Kashyap’s two-part series Gangs of Wasseypur puts the spotlight on the coal and scrap trade mafia in Wasseypur in Jharkhand, and Zoa Morani-Imran Zahid-starrer Marksheet attempts to uncover the scams in India’s education sector.

In the meantime, a number of filmmakers are toying with the idea of making a film on much publicised Bhanwari Devi case of Rajasthan, where a nurse, who had illicit relations with a government minister, was abducted and murdered.

The films come as a difference from the regular Bollywood fare.

Acclaimed filmmaker Dibaker Banerjee, who has presented a hard-hitting account of corruption in the Indian political system in Shanghai, says he is glad to see people opening up to “alternative cinema”.

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Hansika Motwani

anurag kashya