2013-08 Melbourne

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Rudd’s return will slow down the India-Oz relationship

LUTHRA

Ahigh-ranking Indian diplomat often expressed his exasperation with Prime Minister Kevin Rudd in his first term of office, as to his leanings towards China. The sentiment in South Hall was that under Rudd, the Australia-China relationship was a bit more warm and cosy than it needed to be. India was frustrated at the way the Labor Party under Kevin Rudd rebuffed India’s diplomats, especially in the area of uranium sales. In the dying days of the Howard government, it was announced that should the Coalition return to power, they would initiate steps to sell uranium to India. However, with Labor taking control in 2007, in his first stint at prime ministership, Kevin Rudd made no moves to progress any discussion on this topic; in fact, it was put on the back burner.

It was under the next prime minister Julia Gillard, that the Labor caucus endorsed the sale of the precious yellow cake to India. Interestingly enough, this decision seemingly was undertaken

without consulting her then Foreign Minister Rudd, who was only informed of this after it was publicly announced. This decision was made in December 2011 and to date little progress has been made in practical terms. One expects that under the reincarnation of Kevin Rudd as Prime Minister, not much will happen in this regard. Interestingly, Rudd supporters, such as current Deputy Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Labor stalwart Doug Cameron, both disagreed with the then PM Gillard’s decision. 2008-2009 was the period when the students’ crisis had rocked the relations between India and Australia. An enduring image from the time is that of Rudd’s effigy being burnt by demonstrators outside the Australian High Commission in India. While this was certainly not pleasant, it further distanced Kevin Rudd from all things Indian.

As to how the Indian community in Australia reacts to the change of leadership in the Labor Party will be interesting to observe. Over the past few months, there has been a concerted effort by the subcontinent friends of Labor to reach out to the Indians in Australia. Former PM Gillard’s visit to the Parklea gurudwara, a meet-and-greet with selected media at Kirribilli House,

weekend fundraisers for the Labor Party within the Indian community and the constant parade of Labor’s marginal seat politicians at Indian functions. These have all shown the importance given to the Indian vote at the next elections. Whether the new (or old?) Prime Minister Rudd will embark on similar gimmicks will be interesting to observe.

However, if history is any indication, PM Rudd will prefer to practice his Mandarin at local Chinese functions, rather than covet the Indian vote. Australian Indians will also remember promises and grandiose statements such as the 20/20 forums, grocery watch, fuel watch, the lack of coherent policy on ‘the greatest moral challenge of our times’ and carbon tax, the dismantling of the Pacific solution of the Howard government, the near breakdown in the working of the government after disagreements in the kitchen cabinet etc. While all these can be forgiven, what the Australian Indian community will be watching, is how the relationship between India and Australia progresses under a reincarnated Kevin Rudd. Pawan Luthra is the current Parliament of NSW Multicultural Journalist of the Year.

Simmi Bakshi, Ritam Mitra, Noel G De Souza, Saroja Srinivasan, Kudrat Singh, Minnal Khona, Kalyani Wakhare, Nancy Jade Althea, Mallika Goel, Sujith Krishnan, Sandip Hor, Malli Iyer

PAWAN

Proud member of:

Jhankar 2013

Sat 10 August 7.30pm onwards

Bollywood spectacular musical will be staged with talented local musicians, singers, dancers and actors, to create a unique multicultural exhibition. In collaboration with the Space Performing Arts Academy, the production will feature a Bollywood musical in English, accompanied by a live band. All proceeds will be donated to the East West Overseas Aid Foundation (TEWOAF). George Wood Performing Arts Centre in Ringwood.

Details: Seema Gupta 0414351162, eraofexcellence@gmail.com or www.facebook.com/jhankar2013

AIII India Day Charity Dinner

Sat 17 August 6:30pm-11:30pm

To mark the 66th Indian Independence Day, the Australia India Innovations Inc (AIII) will organise a charity dinner, with proceeds from the event benefitting Asha Global, the AIII’s adopted charity. Music, dance, songs with a sumptuous dinner and drinks. Tickets: $50pp (pre-purchase only). Metropol

FUNNYSIDE U p

What’s on

Reception, Level 1/370 Clayton Rd, Clayton.

Chand Raat Eid Festival

Sat 10 August 2pm onwards Springvale Racecourse, Springvale.

Details: contact Syed 0412 881 597 or syed@cref.com.au

Indian Cultural and Dance Festival

Sat 17 – Sun 18 August

12noon-7pm

Cnr of South Bank Bvld and Queens Bridge Road (along the Yarra River).

Details: Subra Ramachandran 0403 777 252 or events@fiav.asn.au

Janmashtami celebrations

Thur 29 August full day until midnight

At 197 Danks Street, Albert Park.

Details: www.iskconmelbourne.com

Teeyan: Daughters of Punjab

Sun 1 September 2-5pm

A journey into the Punjabi culture. Punjabi folk fance, DJ Manj Australia, henna tattoos, cultural displays, raffles, Bhangra, kids performance and light

refreshments.

Tickets: $30 adults (ladies only), kids $15.

Serenity reception, 250 Hume Highway, Somerton.

Details: Nazia on 0413 550 335

Gala evening with V.G.P Ulaga Thamil Sangam

Sat 4 September 6:30-10pm

Cultural cake show by Shanthas cakes, book release of Tharunangal, Ilamei feature film trailer release, and more.

Details: Shaantha Jeyaraj 03 8786 3663 or 0401 236 453

PS3  Major event: Parenting in a Multicultural Society

Sun 5 September 2-5pm

The aspirations that parents have for their children are similar across all cultures, but it can be  difficult for parents from a non-western background  to handle different norms and new and different influences on children. Our session aims at exploring what does positive parenting mean in  the context of these influences. Please come with your families. Light refreshments provided.

Ashburton Community Services, 296, High Street, Ashburton.

Ustad Barkat Sidhu concert

Sat 7 September

Kew East and 8th September at Hoppers Crossing. After sold out concerts in Canada and London, Ustad Barkat Sidhu will perform in Melbourne. Featuring Taruni Sood. Details: (sponsorship and tickets) 0404 132 385 or 0422 469 322

Ganesh Festival

Sat 7 September 10am onwards 21, Elgar Road, Derrimut.

Details: Rama on 0401 817 523 or www.druta.com.au

Live concert by Ustad Barkat Sidhu (King of Punjabi Folk and Sufi)

Sat 7, Sun 8 September 6.30pm

7th September held at Renaissance Theatre, 826A, High Street, Kew East.

8th September held at Mossfiel Primary School, Landgridge Street, Hoppers Crossing.

Flying high

Inderjeet Singh Sodhi is the first turbaned Sikh to be inducted into the RAAF

BY MALLI IYER

Most of us are aware of acts of bravery and valour by Sikhs. They figure prominently in the list of Victoria Cross and St. George Cross winners and the Sikh Regiment

in the British Army has always had a sterling reputation. It is in keeping with this tradition that the first turbaned Sikh (wearing a turban as opposed to a bearskin) was appointed as a Guardsman in Buckingham Palace as recently as December 2012.

Not surprisingly, Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) has scored a first by recruiting a turbaned Sikh from Melbourne. It is a matter of great pride for the 72,000 strong Sikh community in Australia. Sikh workers and

migrants have earned their stripes as “Cameleers” and “Banana Plantation” workers since the early 19th century, but the profile of a typical Sikh migrant has changed since 1973. Australia has received a large number of Students and Professionals in all walks of life. As per the 2011 census, Melbourne has the distinction of having the biggest Sikh population.

It is appropriate then that 32-year-old, Inderjeet Singh Sodhi from Melbourne has the distinction of being the first turbaned Sikh to be inducted into Royal Australian Air Force. After having successfully completed his interview and Psychometric testing he has signed up to his new career and will commence his general training shortly. His interviewers recommended his appointment even though it took three months for his approval.

Inderjeet Sodhi has finally received approval from the Authorities to retain and continue

his religious belief as a traditional Sikh and a special badge will be created to be worn with his turban. He will receive comprehensive training for the next 5-6 months before commencing his assignment, which could involve general administration, human resources or operational work.

Inderjeet Sodhi moved to Australia in 2004 after completing his Bachelor of Pharmacy degree from Dehradun to pursue his post-graduate studies in Commerce. He obtained a Master of Commerce Degree from Deakin University before applying for the RAAF. He is married to Gurleen and has a 2-year-old son. Gurleen has received specialist training as a nursery teacher and works casual /part time as a child carer.

Inderjeet’s parents arrived in

Australia to attend his initiation in RAAF. They have blessed his career choice and are proud that he has chosen to serve his country of residence. His only sibling is his younger sister who continues to live in India. He and his immediate family have become naturalised Australians in 2007 as it would be a pre-requisite to serve in RAAF. Inderjeet is very proud of his success, and looks forward to wearing the RAAF Uniform with pride. He hopes to become a shining example to his peers by working hard to achieve an excellent service record. His goal in life is to be a leader of men and go as far as he can in the annals of RAAF. His favourite sport is Cricket, but since settling in Melbourne he has followed AFL and his favourite team are the Geelong Cats.

Dost for hungry children

A not-for-profit fundraiser helps raise money to support schools’ breakfast program

“estimated to be over 680,000 people who are struggling to put a meal on the table every year, or are food insecure”. Believe it or not, this is happening in our own backyard!

There are many reasons given for this food insecurity, however whatever they may be, it is not a happy situation. No child deserves to go hungry, especially when this is not their fault. It is difficult to concentrate or play any sport without sufficient nutrition, which is essential for well-being. This is where Dost comes into the picture. A voluntary family charity organisation, Dost (friend) was created by a group of Indian Australians to lend a helping hand towards worthwhile causes.

problem, it was not taken seriously However, when this need came to light after a discussion initiated by Natalie Hutchins, Shadow Minister for Industrial Relations, Ports & Logistics and Member for Keilor, team Dost decided to step in and offer their support.

Shocking, yes; a rumour, no!

According to a study* done by Anglicare Australia in 2012, around 45,000 households here are using emergency relief

services because they don’t have enough money to put food on the table. And one in 10 of those households have children who go without food for a whole day on a regular basis. More recent reports by Food Bank puts the number

The issue of children coming hungry to school became evident in growing suburbs where a lot of young families have settled. Schools were running out of their breakfast funding early in the year, and teachers were hopelessly watching children struggle without food for days. Being a new

An exotic Indian night of fun was held at the Luxor at Taylor’s Lake recently, to raise funds in support of the Western Suburbs of Melbourne’s school breakfast program, to help local school children. In collaboration with Ms Hutchins, team Dost comprising of Helen and Narinder Bedi, Mehul and Rajal Sanghvi and Arun and Jaya Sharma worked tirelessly to organise this exotic affair. A significant amount in excess of $20,000 was raised from donations and auctions that night. Mr Spiros Karagiannidis, who also doubled up as the MC, conducted the auction with success. Prior to the auction, Sarabjit Loyal on dilruba and Jagdip Shergill on tabla provided the musical entertainment, followed by an

interactive Bollywood dance from Bollywood Beats dance group. This gala event brought the community together for a good cause with Member for Kororoit, Marlene Kairouz; Consul for India Rakesh Kawra and wife Mona; Mayor of Melton, Cr Renata Cuiglari; and local business owners in attendance. Arun Sharma from Dost shared thoughts and facts about the fundraiser to a rapt audience, who were still unable to believe that children were going hungry in this day and age in Australia. A teacher from a local primary school was unable to control her emotions while recounting her experience, and cried while addressing the audience. Post event feedback was very complimentary and special mention was made of the professionalism and creativity displayed by team Dost in holding this fundraiser.

*State of the Family Report 2012: When there’s not enough to eat

Freedom boley to …?

August 15 is a date Indians across the world associate with nationhood, and freedom from British rule. SHERYL DIXIT and RAJNI ANAND LUTHRA find out what the term ‘freedom’ means to Indians today

The textbook definition of ‘independence’ is ‘freedom from control or influence of another or others’. Freedom means being responsible enough to enjoy the feeling of doing what one wants without restraint.

But what does the term ‘freedom’ mean to Indians living in Australia? Is it an association that is still kept alive through links with the motherland, or has it taken on a completely new and liberating meaning? And does India’s Independence Day in particular still mean something to us desi Australians? Or is it a past memory of flag hoisting at dawn, followed by bhajjias and garam chai? Indian Link asked people of Indian origin what independence really means to them, with surprising results.

Here and there!

For me, living here in Australia, ‘freedom’ in an Indian context means independence from pollution, corruption and poverty back there. And for my family back home, ‘freedom’ would mean the same thing – to have running

injustice, and make a demand for righting wrongs. It is a good feeling to know that there are so many people who support the cause of right and who are willing to take a stance, as we have seen in the case of the New Delhi rape victim and the public frenzy that followed, to ensure justice for the young girl who tragically died from her injuries. In saying that I have to admit that sometimes the press in India makes too much of an issue, they give social issues as much importance and coverage as Bollywood celebrities! But overall, it is great to see that India is going through a change where

the freedom to speak openly and without fear is gathering strength. I only hope it lasts!

Ashish Chawla St. Albans

My list

Can I have freedom to go to bed whatever time I want? And have McDonalds for dinner on more nights. Not have pumpkin soup for dinner or yellow dal. Watch TV whenever I want. Skip my shower when I am too tired? Please?

Vihaan Chawla

Doing what I like Freedom means not being dependent on anyone. So why single out Independence Day for this, I enjoy this freedom every day! I love the freedom to do what I want in my daily life, raise my family as I see fit, make merry with friends, go out and enjoy beautiful Melbourne!

And yet I manage to do my duty to our extended family back home, and the community that I interact with at different levels here.

Deepti Chawla

Choices

Freedom to me is being independent to make my own choices, to be able to express myself freely without restrictions, to be a part of this wonderful life where I can respect others and have the same respect returned to

water and electricity throughout the day, and to breathe in clean air instead of the dust and pollution from a million rickshaws, buses and cars! But they also have another kind of freedom, they have the love and support of their entire family, which is what I miss. They keep traditions alive meeting at weddings and parties, they help each other in times of need. When I go back they treat me like royalty! After 66 years of Independence, corruption and pollution have got worse, but family ties have gotten stronger, they have become more multicultural and they last longer. Their freedom is special and they will all celebrate Independence Day together with march pasts and masti, while I will buy a flag from a local Indian shop and stick it in a muffin while singing Jana gana mana!

Nitika Sondhi Sydney

me. To be true to myself without the fear of anyone or anything… a reminder how lucky I am to wake up each morning and feel these words ring true every day and every minute!

Neelam Vasudevan Oakleigh East

Those who deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves

To be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others

Nelson Mandela

Abraham Lincoln

Young and free India may be celebrating 66 years of Independence, but it is still a young country and in opinion, it is getting younger. There is a new breed of professionals, politicians, industrialists that are the new youthful face of India in the international arena, which indicates a change in the way the world sees us - modern and trendy, instead of conservative and obsolete. The old are making way for the young, who are not

Live and let live

As an Indian woman, freedom to me means being able to exercise the same rights and liberties enjoyed by men in the society with no questions asked. Freedom from hypocritical values, freedom from double standards, freedom to disagree and not conform to superstition and blind faith. Freedom from fear, prejudice and hate.

Around the world in varying degrees, women are treated unequally. In some places they are not allowed to be seen or heard. Right to education and work opportunity for everyone

I depend on me!

I enjoy my freedom. I am a mother and a homemaker, but even with all this, I am free. To have a cup of tea at 11am, to tend to my tulsi and karve pak trees in my garden, to chat with my friends, to enjoy the occasional mums’ night out, to not have to feel the pressure of answering too many questions about my life from inquisitive neighbourhood aunties and not being drawn too deeply into family politics back home. I work, cook, tend to my family and enjoy life – without the aid of cooks, maids or ayahs. And I survived, learning to depend on myself. Living away from India has made me more independent, so I guess I have every reason to celebrate its 66th.

Asha Pujari Hawthorn East

irrespective of his or her sex, race, wealth or religion equates to true freedom in my opinion.

Peter Parker’s (Spiderman’s alter ego) quote, “With great power there must also come great responsibility,” can be reworded to suit the context: “With freedom there must also come responsibility”. I believe freedom given/ available to a few, causes more harm than good. A society is truly free only when it’s free from inequality and ignorance. True freedom is to be able to live and let live.

Shraddha Arjun Sydney

Freedom to create

Freedom to me, personally, is all about having the option to be creative in life. I believe that if God is watching us, the least we can do is be entertaining and to be entertaining one needs to be creative. During my wonderful childhood my parents gave me the freedom to explore, learn and in turn create. My dad was in a role that required a lot of travel and we lived in many parts of India. In all the travelling we did there was always so much to learn from the diversity and utilise the learning in my own life be it in cooking something from a region, dancing a local folk dance, learning a new

It’s, like, cool!

Freedom, like, it’s a really cool thing! My idea of freedom is to go clubbing with my friends, but my parents won’t let me until I’m 21. They’re like, really, really OTT with stuff like that, checking FB and my Mac. But like, I’m not a kid! I’m 16, and y’know, I’d like to play on the PS3 all day, or sleep in late every day, or not go to school, or hang out at the mall all weekend with my friends. I want an iPhone 5, a WiiU, designer skinny jeans and a cool haircut. My parents don’t let me do anything! I guess someone needs to explain what freedom is to them! LOL!

Name withheld on request, or his parents may give him the freedom to leave home!

that much interested in money–making and are keen to stamp out corruption. Maybe because they themselves were born rich, so it doesn’t matter as much to them. They may not have much experience like the older generation, but they are smart and quick learners. India today makes me wish that I was getting younger too!

Sheryl Dixit Kellyville Ridge Sydney

Fun freedom

I’m called the ‘chanya choli queen’ and I love it! Freedom for me means the chance to wear gorgeous Indian clothes and jewellery and dance to bhangra and Bollywood beats even in the middle of winter in Melbourne! My cousins in Mumbai don’t do this, they dress in western clothes to go to rave parties and dance to Timomatic! I love the freedom to be more Indian than Indian’s back in India. It’s great!

Surabhi

Shah

Carlton North

language, adopting a new fashion or being inspired by a new book. All of it influenced and enriched the way I lived and enjoyed my life. The experience fortunately continued even after I grew up and finished my education, got married and migrated to Australia. Despite the challenges of settling in a new country, adjusting to new relationships and working in a new environment, there was always freedom to create, freedom to learn and be inspired and freedom to do my own thing. I rate that as one of the highest factors in my ability to enjoy my life and be happy.

Preeti Jabbal Glen Waverley

TV time for me

Freedom is to be able to watch the TV I want, peacefully. No saas-bahu dramas for me, or even your Voice, Masterchef, Big Brother or whatever the latest reality series is. I’ve made arrangements to be able to watch the cricket wherever it is being played in the world, and am on top of the footy here. My wife and I now have our own separate TV sets, and I am enjoying my TV freedom.

Padmanabhan T Rowville

Freedom is nothing but a chance to be better

Albert Camus

Freedom is not worth having if it does not connote freedom to err Mahatma Gandhi

Our freedom can be measured by the number of things we can walk away from Vernon Howard

Yapping saves lives

BY RITAM MITRA

Sanjay Sreekumar is not your average software engineering student. Just nineteen years old, Sanjay has recently developed a smartphone app that assists its users in selfdetecting the early stages of breast cancer. On June 25, the app was inaugurated at Parliament House in front of not only Federal MPs, but also ambassadors of several countries as part of the Australian

Parliamentary group, Federal Parliamentary Friends of Breast Cancer Awareness among Young Adults. Sanjay, who presented the app at its inauguration, developed it with the assistance of a team in order to promote the YAP (Young Adults Program), a charitable organisation that encourages healthy behaviour in young adults.

Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, with Australian women exposed to a 1 in 8 lifetime risk of contracting the disease. It is estimated that 14,940 Australian women and more than 100 men will be diagnosed with breastcancer this year. Most women survive breast cancer, with the five year survival rate

Peter, Sanjay was given the green light to go ahead and design the app, an opportunity for which he is extremely thankful. He has already designed a number of apps and websites with the assistance of his own local development team, but the thought of making a difference is very important to Sanjay.

“This started as a passion, and now it seems it is growing into a business,” Sanjay says. “These days I get lots of requests for apps through my website SanjaySreekumar.com. Currently I am making two game apps, which are fascinating me to the core, but nothing fascinates me more than the app that I built for YAP. I feel I am saving hundreds of human lives just through that app. I would like to thank the YAP team for accepting my offer to build the app for them”.

Although studying software engineering has helped Sanjay to a certain extent, he has had to rely on his own devices for much of the journey. “I had to read and understand everything myself. However, it was not that difficult. I had the drive to learn, since the idea of saving lives really drove me. The YAP App is free, and I would like it to be free so that the app is available to everyone in any country, thus serving its purpose well,” he added.

language support.

Leticia Lentini, Google’s Australia/ New Zealand Events and Brand Marketing Manager, was particularly impressed by the app, mentioning that it was a “good example of ‘how do you use technology for good and how do you use technology to spread the word’”. www.yapstuff.org, the home of the YAP initiative, has been supported by Google grants since 2005.

In the meantime, Sanjay wants to mass promote and market the app in order to reach a wider range of people. “Many businesses, shops and other organisations would be interested in supporting and promoting this app,” he says. “But many of them would be quite interested in promoting this if they get some business advantage too. Our app provides such organisations a tool called ‘App Badging’. Organisations that promote the app get exposure by having their business image displayed in the app”.

As for his personal plans for the future, Sanjay is noncommittal. “My parents always gave me freedom to pursue the career of my choice, and I wanted to be a computer assembler. Later, my interest changed to software, and my parents were always with me. My interests might still change. Currently I am really looking at a career in software development,” he says.

One of the most exciting events for Sanjay in the development of the app was its inauguration in parliament House

To anyone out there who is interested in creating apps, or exploring other interests that they’re at all unsure about, Sanjay has words of advice, “I would like to suggest this to my young friends: One, do only what you like to do. Two, find a good mentor and three, stick to their advice no matter how hard it might seem initially,” he stated.

The launch of the Australian Parliamentary group, Federal Parliamentary Friends of Breast Cancer Awareness among Young Adults

Sanjay Sreekumar presenting his Yap App

Brains as well as beauty

The quest for Miss/Mrs India and Mr Melbourne ends with deserving winners chosen from tough competition

Fuelled by ethnic pride in their Indian roots and fired up by western sensibilities, the contestants at the recently held Miss/Mrs India quest had everything going for them, and they knew it! Confidence was at a high as the participants sashayed and swirled on stage in gowns and sarees, with no sight or need of revealing swimsuits. The emphasis was on beauty, brains and talent, not on body measurements.

Curvaceous was the buzzword with no stringent requirements of height or weight. It was a beauty pageant held to celebrate Indian women, not to conform to global standards. Complementing the women were a handful of men who went on to compete for the title of Mr Melbourne.

Chips were already stacked in the favour of Rashi Kapoor and Puneet Gulati, who won the coveted title of Miss India Global and Mr Melbourne respectively. Both stood out for their talent, confidence and ability to interact with the audience and judges without saying a word. When

provided with an opportunity to voice their thoughts, they did not disappoint there either. Other notable performances were from young Dhananjay Kapoor who escorted the ladies on stage in style, and then went on to compete with aplomb against men much older than him. Noticeable among the men was Vikram Jeet Dhunna, while among the ladies, slim and stately Bindy Rayat was definitely model material, and talented Aditi Sachdeva was strikingly unconventional.

What the audience saw at Thornbury Theatre on the final evening was the culmination of weeks of rehearsals – photo shoots, grooming sessions and the inevitable angst. Many titles like Congeniality, Photogenic, Catwalk, Glamour, Resort Wear Queen, among others, were presented in-between the rounds. A panel of judges was invited to score the finalists in a quest for the best.

Among the judges were writer and filmmaker Sandeep Raj, Mrs Savita Sonia from SBS Hindi, Mrs Manpreet Singh from SBS Punjabi, Priyanka Dewan - Mrs Intelligent Universe and Mrs India

Universe 2012, Deepti Sharma - Ms India Earth and Ms Earth International 2012, Mrs Krishna Arora OAM and Mrs Preeti Jabbal from Indian Link. The final word was from the Director of Ms India Quest Anamika Srivastava, and her husband Saket, who also doubled up as the Master of Ceremony for the evening.

In a deviation from the norm, the questions asked at the contest were not provided by all the judges, however, they were a decent mix of the trite, tested, humorous and thought-provoking. Some did pose a challenge to the contestants, while others added entertainment value. The rounds that followed the personality

segment showcased traditional wear, western wear and some very glamorous gowns. After much deliberations and some delay, the winners were finally announced. Among the main winners was Miss Sonia Cheema, 1st runner up of the Miss India Category who will be representing India at the Miss International pageant at Minnesota. Mrs Sharu Suvarna who won the Mrs Category will be representing India in the Mrs Universe pageant in Aruba, South America. The 1st runner up in the Mrs category was Divya Bakshi, and in the Mr Melbourne category was Param Grewal. Towards the end of a very long drawn out evening, an emotional Anamika Srivastava revisited her own days as finalist of the Mrs India Quest in 2011, while addressing and encouraging the participants. She also scripted a rather lengthy play that was part of the entertainment for the night. Her list of people to thank included the Australasian Centre for Human Rights and Health (ACHRH) as a gold sponsor, Dr Manjula O’Connor, SWC Security, E-Aussie, Smaya Ready to Wear, Karismatik Beauty, Leiela, George, Gautam Garg, Intimo, Pankaj Roy, Mowgli Restaurant, Jamee Lighting and RTR Productions, all of whom according to her, had supported MIQ tremendously. The evening ended amidst congratulatory handshakes, back-slapping and hugs from friends and family who had waited patiently through the whole event. As is the case with pageants there were plenty of surprises and some disappointments, but lots to cheer.

Simmi Bakshi

Photo: Pankaj Roy

Bhangra beauties showcase

brains and balle balle

Miss Aussie Punjaban is crowned in a glittering ceremony

The title of Miss Aussie Punjaban 13 was presented to an emotional Jasmeet Kaur Sangha, who stood out as the most confident from the beginning.

The doli round went to Prabhdeep Kaur Aulakh, with Amarpreet Kaur taking the title for Miss Intelligent. Anu Chopra won the talent round, while Prabhjot Kaur Virk mastered the catwalk round. Sandeep Kaur Sodhi took away the Beautiful Eyes title in the final giddha round, and everyone was declared a winner.

The lengthy event was interspersed with items presented by local talent and a fancy dress competition for children. The kids looked adorable in traditional outfits from Punjab, and a few enterprising ones easily stole the limelight as they performed in front of an appreciative audience. Some potential Miss Punjabans were well on their way to a future of success.

The pretty, the plump and the petite got together under the banner of Virasate-Punjab recently, to vie for the coveted crown of Miss Aussie Punjaban 2013. The bhangra beauties were participating in a debut event organised by the newly formed Virasat-e Punjab at the Box Hill Town Hall in Melbourne.

The event took off to a colourful start as the six contestants introduced themselves to the audience and the judges. Then followed a talent round, a doli (bridal) round, a catwalk round,

a personality round and a group dance round. The pageant was not just about beauty, but was designed to gauge the understanding of Punjabi culture amongst the participants.

The space reverberated with Punjabi music as the participants went through the motions, demonstrating their beauty and brains. The judging panel comprised of community leader and senior Mrs Hardeep Madan, academic and community adviser Jasvinder Sidhu, and socialite Kiran Cheema. The main guests included former VMC Commissioner Usha Sharma,

radio host Laxmi Vijay, Charanjeet Singh from Chardi Kala Punjabi newspaper, Anil and Ritu Sharma from India at Melbourne Hindi newspaper and Preeti Jabbal from Indian Link Kelly O’Dwyer, Federal member for Higgins and John Nguyen, Liberal from Chisholm also attended the event and seemed to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Kelly was especially taken in by the beauty, colour and sparkle of the traditional outfits that the contestants wore through each round. She endeared herself to the audience by attempting to greet them in Punjabi, and

offered her support to the event, and similar events that promote multiculturalism in Victoria.

Prior to the event, the participants underwent a week of grooming sessions under Mrs Harpal Kaur Sandhu, coordinator of the pageant. The audience witnessed the talent of the participants as they sang, danced, spoke and delivered each round with confidence. Amardeep Kaur anchored the show admirably, despite some technical hitches and last minute changes. The first time participants lacked finesse, but made up for this with ample enthusiasm.

The trio of Harmandeep Singh, Randeep Singh and Harpal Kaur Sandhu were instrumental in bringing this amateur event to the audience. They are currently gearing towards their next event that will be held in November this year. “Our next event will be another quest for the best,” said Harpal Kaur Sandhu. “Our focus is to provide a family friendly environment and a platform for young and upcoming talent in Melbourne,” she added. Hopefully lessons would have been learnt and improvements will be in place for people to enjoy similar future attempts from Virasat-E-Punjab.

Simmi Bakshi

King Khan on the Chennai Express

Shahrukh Khan speaks exclusively to Indian Link Radio listeners

Padukone has tried an OTT role and accent in the film. With all due respects, according to critics OTT is your forte, how did it feel to share that space with Deepika?

BY PREETI JABBAL

On August 8, a fun train journey will traverse the length and breadth of Australia with the release of Rohit Shetty’s latest rom-com Chennai Express. Fasttracking us to the movie’s fun and entertainment was none other than superstar Shahrukh Khan, SRK or King Khan or the Badshah of Bollywood, as he is popularly called, who worked his charismatic charm on me in an exclusive radio interview with Indian Link. We talked about his life, his beautiful co-star Deepika Padukone and the Chennai Express journey.

Appealing both to the classes and the masses, SRK is renowned for his Midas touch, turning every venture into a blockbuster. Will the King retain his magic with his latest release, Chennai Express? Will the racy songs, dollops of comedy and Rohit Shetty ishtyle action, generate enough speed to reach the platform of success? It won’t be long before we find out. As the title song in this movie goes, Ticket khareed ke, baith ja seat pe, nikal na jaaye kahin Chennai Express!

journey with the charming SRK.

Preeti Jabbal (PJ): As a star, you have been interviewed multiple times over; to what kind of journalist do you enjoy speaking - the gushing type who swoon on looking at you or the calm, collected variety that ask boring or repetitive questions, or those unaffected by your stardom who command candid responses?

Shahrukh Khan (SRK): People come to me with a lot of preparation or with preconceived notions, some come with love while others come just to do a job. Being an actor I can gauge in a moment or two what kind of person I am speaking to, and I try to respond in the same manner. If they are aggressive or demand candid responses, I try to give them candid responses; if they are the boring variety, I try to add a bit of interest; if they are gushing, I love them back. There are days when I get a good interview and it feels nice, however mostly I do not have a choice. Given a choice I would like to talk to people who are pleasant and have pertinent questions to ask, and who are ready to have a few laughs in between.

PJ: Well then we hope to cover all the above with this interview

It’s breaking news that you have patched up with Salman Khan after 5 years, how does that feel?

SRK: My personal relationships whether they are with Salman or anyone else are a topic that I like to give an equal amount of dignity to. I have never made a comment on my love, fights, friendships or relationships, as I prefer to keep my personal feelings to myself most of the time. They still end up being a topic for tabloid analysis and then there are pictures and speculations, and people have different opinions

made any comment about my feelings on any sequence of events related to Salman up until now and I would like to keep it like that.

PJ: Let’s talk about your upcoming film Chennai Express, slated to release in Australia on August 8, and all your fans are looking forward to this movie. The current trend in Indian cinema is to include at least one element or a bit of masala that will appeal to the overseas audience. Is there this element in Chennai Express?

SRK: I don’t think that the thought process while making a film or telling a story is about combining elements to make a certain segment of audience happy. It is an over-simplification of how we make films. In reality, everyone is there mainly to tell a story. Some films could be geared towards certain people but emotions are universal and the idea is to appeal to everyone. I don’t know of anyone that makes a film to cater specifically to a national or international market.

Similarly Chennai Express is a holiday entertainer that the entire family can enjoy. It does not have any dirty dancing or cheap humour or embarrassing scenes; instead it is naughty, a bit over the top, funny, action-oriented and romantic.

Chennai Express is one of the first few Hindi films that will take the audience to all parts of South India. The film was shot in many locations around South and I am sure our South Indian audience all over the world will be a little bit attached to the film. Those who have not visited South India will also enjoy its beauty through this film.

PJ: Speaking of ‘over the top’, we have heard that Deepika

SRK: (Laughing) First of all I would like to know who says that she was OTT in this film? On a serious note, I think moviemakers create a special world of their own through their films. Directors like Karan Johar, Anurag Kashyap, for example, have their own creative world; similarly Rohit Shetty also has a distinct branded style of his own. If actors who act in Rohit’s films try to impose their personal choices and styles it would be most boring and unprofessional. There will always be people who will like or dislike a film and critical appraisal is mostly a person’s own perspective, not necessarily that of the director. It has to be taken with a grain of salt.

As for sharing space with Deepika, it was a great experience as she is a lovely lady, a fantastic actor and a friend. She even made pulling faces and comedy into something beautiful and sensuous. She is a very attractive and talented co-actor.

PJ: You have requested that Deepika’s name should appear in the credits of Chennai Express before your own. Will this gesture be a step towards improving the status of women in Indian cinema, or the country in general?

SRK: I would be a fool to think that this gesture will change the status of women in India. It’s a long overdue gesture to acknowledge the equality of genders within Indian films. Previously there have been trends where names were credited according to alphabetical order or based on seniority; however this is probably the first time that the female lead’s name will appear before the male. My production and I think it is very cool to do this as it has not been done before and it also creates certain awareness among people to change existing systems.

As for changing the world, I have worked in many films over the years and I don’t think any film has changed the world. On the contrary, the two hours are aimed for people to forget the world they live in. I believe films are a reflection of what society is, and you can’t really be changing that around. I think my request to have Deepika’s name first is just a nice gesture, and nothing more or less than that.

as for sharing space with Deepika, it was a great experience as she is a lovely lady, a fantastic actor and a friend. She even made pulling faces and comedy into something beautiful and sensuous

Chennai Express is a holiday entertainer that the entire family can enjoy. It does not have any dirty dancing or cheap humour or embarrassing scenes; instead it is naughty, a bit over the top, funny, action-oriented and romantic

PJ: Congratulations, you overtook Amitabh Bachchan and Sachin Tendulkar in being voted as the most popular Father of the Year 2013, in India. In Australia, Father’s Day will be celebrated on September 1 and Indian Link is holding a competition, seeking contributions from our readers. Now that you are officially an authority on fatherhood, would you like to make a comment?

SRK: Thanks for the complement, it’s nice to think that one is an authority on fatherhood. I believe fathers and mothers are beautiful people, so keep on loving them and listening to them. No matter what age or stage you are at, make sure that you somehow share the love with them that they shared with you while you were growing up.

I request all Indian Link readers to send in their contributions and nominations for this special Father’s Day competition. Have a good life!

This interview was organised by Mind Blowing Films, the company which is distributing the film Chennai Express in Australia

First ever Indian-origin candidate to stand for federal seat

Jag Chugha from the Liberal party is dedicated to giving back to the community

a lawyer. Single mother and small business owner Rose Ljubicic will contest against them as a Green’s candidate.

Acampaign launch dinner was held recently at Café Saffron Restaurant in South Morang, for the Liberal Party campaign in Scullin. The Liberal Party candidate for Scullin is Jag Chugha, the first Australian of Indian heritage to stand for a federal seat. Jag is a practising lawyer in the corporate sector.

He has lived in Thomastown most of his life and attended Thomastown Meadows Primary School and Merrilands Secondary College. Jag completed his Master of Laws (LLM) from University of Melbourne and a LLB / BCom (Accounting) from Bond University He is married to Kiran, and has two young sons.

Jag wants to give back to the

community by helping reduce the cost of living pressures, supporting small business and improving local infrastructure, transport and education.

Scullin covers 169 sq kms generally north of the Metropolitan Ring Road on the northern fringe of the Melbourne metropolitan area. It includes the suburbs of Thomastown,

Lalor, Epping, Mill Park, Plenty, Diamond Creek, Hurstbridge and parts of Greensborough. Scullin has been a Labor seat since it was created in 1969.The retiring Labor MP is Harry Jenkins Jnr, who has represented this seat since succeeding his father in1986.

Harry Jenkins Jnr is now retiring, and the Labor candidate for Scullin will be Andrew Giles, also

During the campaign launch event, Jag received encouragement from various Liberal party leaders, individuals, businesses and community organisations. Liberal’s Michael Kroger was the main speaker for the event. Other speakers on the night were Senator Scott Ryan; Vasan Srinivasan, President - FIAV; Chairperson for Scullin Vincent Rizza; Chairperson for Jaga Jaga, Jacky Douglass; and Anthony Fernandez for Ivanhoe. Liberal candidate for Calwell, Dr Ali Khan; former Liberal candidates for Peter Chugha (Mill Park); and Goldy Brar (Bundoora); Scott Pearce and Shamla Ozturk, Liberal Party Administrative Committee were among those present to offer the campaign and Jag their support.

Peacock Sujith Krishnan

Dixit Rajni Anand Luthra

India, China hold talks for peace on border

Amid reports of fresh incursions by Chinese troops in Ladakh’s Chumar sector, India and China began two-day talks recently as part of a border mechanism to ensure peace and tranquility on their disputed boundary.

The third meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs is led on the Indian side by Gautam Bambawale, joint secretary (East Asia) in the external affairs ministry and also includes representatives of the defence and home ministries, as well as other officials.

External affairs ministry spokesperson Syed Akbaruddin said in a statement from New Delhi that the meeting is part of a regular series of interactions between both sides. The first meeting was held in March 2012 and the last in November, 2012.

“I would like to clarify that these meetings are held between composite delegations of India and china. On our side it is being led by the ministry of external affairs, but it also has officials of the ministry of defence, ministry of home affairs and other organisations dealing with border affairs. Similarly, on the Chinese side too there is a composite delegation,” he said.

He said the meeting “deals with all issues relating to peace and tranquillity on the border since the last meeting in November 2012”. He clarified that the meeting would not deal with boundary issues “as those are being handled by the Special Representatives of both sides. Also, the meeting does not discuss the Border Defence Cooperation Agreement because there are separate mechanisms to deal with that”.

The reported incursion by Chinese troops in Chumar comes after the three-week intrusion by Peoples Liberation Army troops April 15 in Ladakh’s Depsang area. The Depsang intrusion, which led to heightening of tension between both sides, was resolved following intense negotiations through their joint mechanisms for resolving such issues.

According to reports, Chinese troops on horseback crossed the Line of Actual Control on three occasions - on July 16, 17 and 20 in Chumar and on one occasion held posters asking the Indian forces to “vacate Chinese territory”.

India is in a relatively sound position with roads and surveillance towers in Chumar, which the Chinese are unhappy over.

Enhanced trade, n-deal on table in Biden-Manmohan meet

India and the US discussed ways to enhance economic cooperation and implementation

of the civil nuclear deal that was stuck in commercial negotiations, among other issues, as visiting US Vice President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh met in New Delhi on July 23.

Keeping up the momentum in their ties, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is to visit the US by the end of September for a bilateral meeting with US President Barack Obama. This was discussed during talks between Biden and Manmohan Singh, a source revealed.

“The meeting between Obama and Singh will take place in the end of September, this has been confirmed. The dates have not been fixed yet. We are working on two sets of dates,” the source added.

The prime minister would attend the UN General Assembly in New York and then visit Washington for a bilateral summit with Obama. This will be Obama’s first bilateral meeting with Singh in his second term.

Biden, who arrived here on Monday for a four-day visit, met Manmohan Singh for around an hour at the Prime Minister’s official residence - 7, Race Course Road.

Both sides “discussed the synergies between India and US on a wide variety of issues and emphasised the importance the bilateral relationship has,” the source said.

The prime minister “underlined the significance of economic exchange between the two countries in helping India to tackle the host of issues relating to enhancement of the wellbeing of the Indian people”.

Both sides held discussions on energy, innovation as well as on regional issues such as Afghanistan and the neighbourhood.

“They also discussed how to take forward the commercial aspects of the civil nuclear agreement between the two countries,” said an official source.

Ahead of his visit, the US has welcomed India’s decision to increase foreign direct investment in key sectors like defence, telecom and insurance.

Immigration issues also figured in the talks, especially during Biden’s meeting with Bharatiya Janata Party leader Sushma Swaraj. New Delhi has voiced concerns over a bill passed recently by the Senate that overhauls the H1B provision, severely impacting Indian tech firms operating in the US such as Infosys, Wipro, TCS and Satyam Mahindra.

Afghanistan, the drawdown of the USled international forces in 2014 and the new regime in Pakistan were also touched upon during discussions on regional issues.

National Security Advisor Shivshankar Menon, Foreign Secretary Ranjan Mathai, Ambassador Nirupama Rao and Foreign Secretary-designate Sujatha Singh were present during the talks, said sources.

Indian Link media group

Earlier, Biden called on Vice President Hamid Ansari where he outlined President Barack Obama’s and his “personal commitment and interest” in expansion of India-US relations and said India’s Look East policy was complementary to America’s “rebalancing towards Asia”.

Ahead of his trip, Biden had said his visit to India and Singapore was intended to reinforce the White House strategy of ‘rebalancing’ towards Asia and the Pacific.

The Democratic Party politician, who is visiting India with his wife Jill Biden, also called on President Pranab Mukherjee, and met United Progressive Alliance chairperson Sonia Gandhi.

Taj Mahal to be adopted under Clean India campaign

The Taj Mahal, a Unesco World Heritage site, will be adopted under the Clean India Campaign, the tourism ministry and Agra officials said recently.

The Taj Mahal will be adopted by Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) at a function to be attended by Tourism Minister K. Chiranjeevi.

“It is the crown jewel among the tourist destinations in India and naturally is a priority destination under the campaign Clean India programme,” the ministry said.

Agra district authorities said the minister will first visit the Taj Mahal with officials of the ministry and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) director general and then inaugurate the Clean India campaign from the Taj Khema Hotel with the Taj Mahal in the backdrop.

The ONGC has taken the responsibility to clean up the area within and outside the 17th century marble mausoleum.

District Magistrate Zuher Bin Sagir said, “It’s a very important programme for us and we have made elaborate preparations. Agra deserves higher standards of cleanliness”.

Agra Municipal Commissioner D.K. Singh said at present the ASI looks after cleanliness inside the Taj Mahal complex and the roads leading to the monument are maintained by the Agra Development Authority.

He said the Taj Ganj neighbourhood close to the monument and the lanes and streets around the monument are maintained by the municipal corporation.

At the initiative of the tourism ministry, the ASI has agreed to the proposal of ONGC for adopting five more monuments under the Clean India campaign.

The monuments, besides the Taj, are Ellora & Elephanta Caves in Maharashtra, the Red Fort in Delhi, Golkonda Fort near Hyderabad, and Mahabalipuram in Tamil Nadu.

The Clean India campaign is part of the

central government’s strategy for 12th Five Year Plan for improving the quality of services and the environ in and around tourist destinations across India.

“The campaign is aimed at undertaking both sensitisation and action at field level on bringing tourism destinations and their surroundings to an expectable level of cleanliness and hygiene,” it said.

The campaign is being implemented with the involvement of private and public sector stakeholders.

Indo-Swiss project to frame green buildings guidelines for builders

An Indo-Swiss joint project on energy-efficient buildings will be coming up with guidelines that can be used by builders and contractors, Swiss Ambassador Linus von Castelmur said in New Delhi recently.

“The urban residential sector is growing rapidly. The energy needs of such buildings are also growing and represent a huge opportunity for energy conservation. The project has studied such buildings in the Delhi and Chennai regions.

“It will be coming up with guidelines that can be used by the builders and contractors to make homes more energy-efficient. This way, the house owners will face a win-win situation,” said the ambassador.

Discussions are also on with the government of Karnataka on how to develop standard design features that could be incorporated as part of standard building practice.

Castelmur was speaking at a seminar on sustainable architecture organised by the Swiss embassy and the Bureau of Energy Efficiency.

The ongoing Indo-Swiss Project on Building Energy Efficiency Project (BEEP) in partnership with the BEE is bringing Swiss experts and state agencies to enhance energy efficient design of new buildings in India.

BEEP is a bilateral cooperation project between the Ministry of Power, Government of India, and the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) of the Swiss Federation. The BEE is implementing agency on behalf of the MoP while the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation is the implementing agency on behalf of the FDFA.

The BEEP aims at creating a culture of energy efficient building design through the organisation of Integrated Design Charrettes (interdisciplinary design workshops) for 24 large commercial building project over a period of five years.

BEE director general Ajay Mathur said around 400 professionals will be trained in this BEEP project across the country in the next three years on building energy efficient buildings. IANS

Looking beyond

By RAJNI ANAND LUTHRA

hen Trevor Banerjee arrived in Australia ten years ago as an international student, he found himself drawn to Aussie Rules Football. He thought at first it was because his extensive basketball and soccer experiences were giving him an advantage on the field. While that may have been true, he soon realised that what the sport was offering him, was a platform to connect with the mainstream community.

“There is an essential yaarana about AFL that I simply love,” he says. “It’s called ‘shepherding’: I have the ball, and if someone tackles me, my guys will protect me. On the field, your differences dissolve; you look after others like your own brothers”.

He got so involved with the game that he played in the 2011 AFL International Cup, pitching in as a local for a team from India, the Indian Tigers, that did not

have enough numbers. That experience urged him to want to launch a community team, to initiate Indian-Australians into the game.

Indians for AFL? You must be joking!

WHe got no support from the Indian community. No one will be interested, he was told; there will be no players, and no sponsors.

Today, his Masala FC is not only up and running, but has been winning games, attracting sponsorships and drawing players. Its players come not only from the subcontinent but also from Zimbabwe, Afghanistan and Russia. A junior team is on the cards, and Banerjee’s dream is that one day there will be a women’s team in the club.

“When I tell an Australian that I’m a part of an AFL team, there’s a sparkle in their eye which is priceless,” Trevor says.

Sport can indeed be an effective tool to help migrants integrate into society.

Contact sports have never had a large following among Indiansunless the traditional kabaddi can be considered one! But times are changing, with the mass appeal of these rubbing off on migrant Indian communities in Australia

and New Zealand. South Asianorigin players are taking to AFL, Rugby Union and Rugby League at the lower levels like never before, and while we still wait for one of us to make a mark with the Baggy Green, who’s to say a footy or rugby player doesn’t get there first? Hey, if Chinese-American Jeremy Lin could excel at the National Basketball League…

It might be a thing of the past to say that Indians lack the physique for these sports.

Sport administrators have themselves begun reaching out to multicultural communities like never before.

A number of clubs are approaching the Indian community with opportunities to engage with their particular leagues.

AFL’s Essendon Football Club for instance is focussing on the north-west of Melbourne which has a sizable Indian population, with Dyson Heppell as its Indian Ambassador. It entered an Indian team in this year’s Unity Cup, which focuses on strengthening ties with Police, Muslim and other CALD communities through a mutual appreciation of Australian Rules football. The ‘Bharat Bombers’ won two out of their

four games.

Richmond has defender Bachar Houli, a practising Lebanese Muslim, as its Multicultural Ambassador.

Other clubs have specially appointed multicultural development officers or community engagement officials to design programs to deliver specific outcomes to targeted communities.

Even smaller scale token efforts are making a mark, such as AFL’s invite to Bollywood actor Vidya Balan when she was in Melbourne earlier this year, to present the match ball to the referees before the start of a game. (She did so in a bright red sari with a backless blouse, the chill in the air notwithstanding. She admitted she was not familiar with the game at all, but that she was looking forward to the “eye candy”).

And in the midst of all these efforts, we have individual members of the community shining forth with flashes of brilliance, at various levels of the game. While some are starting to push through and make a mark, others are impressing simply with their passion and commitment to a game they did not know growing up, but have since embraced.

And in all of them, the lifting of the gaze away from the allpervading cricket ball, to try a differently shaped one, is truly commendable.

Representing Australia in the Universities World Cup

Jason Ram is about to reach a milestone in his Rugby League career. Next year, he will have played for 25 straight years. And he is only 29 years old.

“If my body is still holding, I will definitely consider going further”.

Jason’s family moved to Sydney from his native Fiji when he was five years old. He had already been introduced to the game by an uncle who represented Fiji in Rugby Union. But when he saw his first game here in Australiathe Cronulla Sharks were playing - he was hooked.

Andrew Ettinghausen has been a lifelong hero.

“His speed and ability, those length-of-the-field tries, were something I wanted to replicate”.

In 2008, Jason represented Australia in the Universities’ World Cup as a Sydney Uni student, and this urged him to try out for Fiji’s national team. He

The Indian community is moving away from stereotypes to become involved in footy across various levels

cricket

didn’t make it ultimately, but won a chance to play in the American National Rugby League, for the Philadelphia team Glen Mills Bulls.

“A fantastic opportunity, it was a development thing for their players. I absolutely loved that experience”.

Has he ever felt disadvantaged due to his racial background?

“No, not really, but it can be good to know a few people here and there! Develop your talents and you will be noticed… they’ll be willing to take you on!”

Today Jason plays half-back with the Bass Hill Broncos. But currently, he’s nursing an injury.

“Last weekend I got poked in the eye, and two days on I’m just getting my vision back!”

His injuries list is rather long, Jason reveals.

“I’ve dislocated my right shoulder five times and my left shoulder six times. But you know, injuries are part and parcel of sport, any sport really. You’d think golf is not strenuous, but Tiger Woods has had double knee trouble, shoulders… The fitter you are, the less likely you are to get hurt, so look after yourself”.

Jason’s message to the Indian community is to get out there and

Many cultures, one game

get involved in the game, even as spectators.

“It’s a great game to watch, a wonderful spectacle, and can be a great day out. Support a local team, or an NRL team, and come join the fun!”

Making the first fifteen at Trinity Grammar

Manish Poologasundram, school captain at Sydney’s Trinity Grammar School has been a Rugby Union player since he was eight years old. Today he is in the school’s first fifteen.

“I started in the C team,” Manish reveals. “But there was great desire and much commitment, and the coaches saw my eagerness”.

In fact, the 17-year-old claims his rugby career so far has taught him that if he puts his mind to anything, he can attain it.

“That’s why I am school captain”.

What brought him to rugby?

“Rugby involves teamwork more than any other sport. Cricket is a team game but it is still played by eleven individuals”.

He adds that he has benefitted academically thanks to rugby.

“As a Year 12 student, I’m currently preparing not only for

6th, I have a very tight schedule, and that forces me to have a very structured study routine. In fact rugby is a great break from studies”.

He counts rugby greats such as David Pocock, Nathan Sharpe, Martin Johnson and Chris Jack as his inspirations.

“Even if you have a little desire, I’d say, go for it, give it a try,” he urges. “My brother only tried the sport in his last year of school. He says it is his biggest regret that he did not play before!”

His mum Anjali is his biggest fan. “I did not follow the game till Manish played. Initially I was concerned about injuries etc, but he was always so keen, and my husband Hari was so supportive, I didn’t want to stop them”.

Manish dreams of playing with West Harbour one day.

Captain of the Under 16s

Damendeep Singh Aujla of Lalor, Melbourne, has just returned

In a bid to recognise, embrace and encourage greater involvement of multicultural communities, the Australian Football League launched the 2013 Multicultural Round in Melbourne recently. Under the logo ‘Many Cultures. One Game,’ the AFL has implemented several initiatives to engage multicultural communities and promote social harmony.

“It is important the AFL reflects cultural diversity, providing an environment which welcomes people from all backgrounds to enjoy our game as supporters, players or administrators in the future,” said AFL Head of Diversity, Jason Mifsud, on the occasion.

According to Misfud, AFL remains committed to strengthening the landscape of opportunities available for their multicultural community group. “We are also proud to see AFL players from non-multicultural backgrounds supporting multiculturalism, as the entire AFL community, irrespective of background, strives to strengthen diversity, inclusion and cultural understanding in our game,” he said.

Over the year, several multicultural talent academies were held in each Australian state and an Under-16 world team was selected to participate in the NAB AFL championships held in Sydney to coincide with the multicultural round. Under the Australia Post AFL Multicultural School programs, the AFL Multicultural ambassadors have visited 300 schools and brought thousands of culturally diverse people to the game by teaching football skills and reinforcing key themes of leadership, harmony and respect.

The AFL Multicultural round 2013 initiatives include the use of orange flags by umpires to represent social harmony, half time games between junior multicultural teams, and cultural diversity forums being organised in various states. They also include sporting events and programs to introduce the game to international students and consular staff from various countries, and inclusion of performances from multicultural artists.

Preeti Jabbal

from a successful tour in Sydney at the NAB AFL Under-16 Championships. As captain, he took his team to a first-ever Division 3 victory, after being undefeated in all three games. Coach Anthony Koutoufides, former Carlton captain, described Damen as “one of the most talented boys in the team and certainly one of the better players in Sydney”.

Damen was discovered by AFL during a weekend camp in which 40 boys participated. He was among the 15 picked finally to make up the team for the Sydney event.

Damen comes from a family of sportsmen, traditional wrestlers who go back centuries. But this 16-year-old found himself loving footy at eight years of age.

“My friends got me into footy, and when I got a chance to play in the TAC Cup, I realised I was good at it and decided to put everything into it”.

With support from his family (who took time out to watch him play at Sydney), Damen dreams of future prospects in the game. Currently, he trains 6 days of the week, and competes on Sundays, fitting his Year 12 studies around his sporting schedule “He’ll definitely go far,” Coach Koutoufides says of him.

A NSW-ACT Ram

At the same event last year, Angad Roy of Sydney became the firstever player of Indian origin to represent NSW-ACT, playing for the Under-16 Rams side. Angad is currently taking time off from the sport for school reasons, and is already feeling antsy at not having played in recent months. He trained with the Slater & Gordon Giants Academy for three years where he had Ryan Hulihan, who played 200+ games for Carlton, as coach and mentor.

“I am drawn to AFL (more than other sports) because of the

fact that you have to be good at so many different things, such as kicking, handballing, fitness and pace,” observes Angad. “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”.

He adds, “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”.

Life skills from rugby

49-year-old investment advisor Manjit Singh of Sydney was first exposed to Rugby Union as a young kid in Mumbai’s exclusive Cathedral and John Connon School, and continues to play to this day.

“At school I just wanted to be different because everyone else played cricket or hockey,” he laughs. “But I fell in love with the game. At that time India only had 10 teams that played, so as school kids if we wanted to play, we had to play against the men. I Didn’t realise at that time how important rugby was going to be in my life. In 1980, my family moved to Australia and I can confidently say that playing the game helped me make friends and to assimilate”.

Manjit played at school and with the Wahroonga Tigers, and later began to coach with the club.

Why rugby?

“Rugby is a very inclusive game with a great sporting spirit, one of the very few games in the world that brings players together

rather than dividing them. Like most team sports it provides great life learning skills - working under pressure, working for the team, working with the team, understanding your role in the overall effort, and relating to people from all walks of life”.

Today he plays with the community-based Killara West Pymble Rugby club, and continues to coach.

“Coaching and Killara West Pymble is all about giving back to a sport that has given me so much,” he reveals.

Community efforts with Collingwood

As Collingwood Football Club’s Community Engagament Officer, Harmit Singh likes to tell people his job is all about educating new Australians about football.

“In my six years with the club, I have seen some 2,500 school kids in Victoria go through our programs,” he tells Indian Link “We run clinics to teach the sport, bring the kids to the club for a look around, we give them tickets to games. We get the message across that football is a major part of Aussie life”.

AFL has been a major part of Harmit’s own life. He plays today for Morwell, and coached the Indian Tigers team for the 2011 AFL International Cup.

Something different from cricket

A practicing Muslim, 23-year-old Yasser Hussain is not playing footy in the ongoing Ramadan

period. But he continues to be involved with Masala FC, and promoting the game in the Indian community.

Arriving from India as a 5-yearold, he had an early introduction to the game with Auskick, moving on to the Juniors up to the Under-15 level with the Glen Waverley Rovers and Under-17s with Northvale.

“My parents must really be credited with that initial push,” he reveals. “They wanted me to try something other than cricket! And luckily I found that my cricket skills transferred well to footy”.

Moving to Abu Dhabi for two years, Yasser played there when the Mid-Eastern League started off.

“That’s where I bumped into Ash Nugent and we talked about promoting the game in India”.

Yasser’s mum Aain is a regular at all his matches, and has won the admiration of his teammates.

“She wears her scarf to the field, bringing not only an Indian, but also an Islamic aspect to the game!”

Aain herself says, “Yes I am very involved and enjoy supporting my son. In fact, sometimes I cheer so hard that my husband begins to avoid me! Yasser is a die-hard fan of the game and has taken me to see the big games at the MCG”.

Dad’s approval

Ten-year-old Prithish Pancholi of Melbourne is very proud to declare that his team, Glen Waverley Rovers Junior Football

Club, is currently “first on the ladder”. His interest in the game comes through loud and clear as he rattles off his training schedule. He’ll tell you he likes the game because it’s lots of fun and a lot of his mates are on his team.

“I play in the back

Rocking for the Sevens

twenty-three year old Auckland-resident Rocky Khan isn’t just any ordinary rugby player. He is the first Fijian of Indian ancestry and also the first Rotuman (an island of Fijian dependency) to represent New Zealand in the Wellington Sevens. It’s a big deal! Players of Asian background or descent in any form, are a rarity in top rugby ranks. And the Sevens, with its spot firmly entrenched in New Zealand’s sporting calendar, not to mention cultural scene, may not be the All Blacks proper, but it’s pretty damn close. The event attracts over 30,000 spectators annually. A fast and furious version of rugby, Sevens matches are shorter than their rugby union counterparts, with each game running for two seven-minute halves (the final is played over two 10-minute halves), instead of the usual 40. There are also seven players instead of 15. 16 international teams compete for points that go towards the world series.

The event has become known as much for the sport, as for the creativity and celebration that surrounds it. Today the Sevens is about celebrating

the diversity of New Zealanders, in all their shapes, sizes, costumes and backgrounds. And with New Zealand’s massive ethnically diverse population – the fastest growing of which is Asian – it is appropriate (if not long overdue) for some of this cultural diversity to come through on the field.

When questioned about his unique position and all the historic ‘firsts’ he is making, the young player comes across as pretty modest.

“I am young and have a long way to go in the game,” Rocky says. “Obviously, I would love to play for New Zealand as I grew up an All Blacks fan but yeah, I’d still consider the offer to represent Fiji if it came my way”.

Rocky might downplay the significance of his role in having made the big leagues – but the rest of his homeland certainly isn’t. With headlines like ‘Let us rock you’ and ‘Living the Dream’, it is evident that he’s making waves across the board. Rocky’s success could help other kids realise their dreams too. To say New Zealanders are fanatical about their rugby would be an understatement;

kids grow up living and breathing it, and dreaming of being an All Black. Rocky Khan has just shown New Zealand’s migrant population that anything’s possible: “Just keep working hard, and doing something everyday that will help you achieve your goals and don’t stop doing it until you’ve reached that goal,” is his advice.

Mallika Goel

Young Rocky Khan is being lauded as a player of repute in the NZ Sevens

Aussie rules, Indian style

Sudip Chakraborty of the Indian Tigers team lives and breathes AFL

As a soccer and cricket player, Sudip Chakraborty was invited in his native Kolkata to a 2008 IPL Kolkata Knight Riders event. Aussie cricketer Ricky Ponting was there, and some of the invitees were asked to try out for a ‘new’ sport called Australian Rules Football.

“It was the first time I had

A team called the Indian Tigers was formed, but the organisers couldn’t sustain the momentum.

“Another player and I wrote to the AFL seeking help to keep it

another Australian in Mumbai Lincoln Harris, showed some support. Some interest trickled

Despite stops and starts, they got a team together for the 2011 AFL International Cup played in Sydney and Melbourne. Help was sought from local Indian Australians to make up a full team. They tasted their first victory,

“It is the fastest outdoor sport in the world, and watching a game at the MCG, with one lakh supporters in the crowd, will surely make you fall in love with it”.

When he went to London to do a masters degree in sports management, his research topic was: How to develop the AFL in Europe.

He also played the sport there, and even refereed, to see how the game has evolved outside of Australia and to see what would fit under Indian conditions.

“AFL means everything to me now,” Sudip tells Indian Link, speaking from Goa where he is planning a national level tournament for November this year. Last year in December, the contest was organised in Kerala, and managed to make the news here in Australia.

As Secretary General of the Australian Rules Football Association in India, Sudip is fulltime in his efforts to develop the game in India.

“We’ve recently bagged the Victorian Government as a sponsor of our tournament in Goa,” Sudip reveals. “Steve Waugh and Brett Lee have also been roped in, and a big impetus has been to have both Julia Gillard and Kevin Rudd follow me on Twitter”.

Is there any one out there who can help out?

Rajni Anand Luthra

“AFL means everything to me now,” Sudip Chakraborty

Another dream is to unite India and Pakistan through AFL, following in the steps of Israel and Palestine who play as the ‘Peace Team’. Sudip Chakraborty

Training camps at AFL India

Japan embraces India

An Indo-Japanese alliance can cause a subtle, but significant change in the balance of power in Asia

was staged in November 1943 in Tokyo, with Bose representing a Free India.

By NOEL G DE SOUZA

On May 30, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh of India made a lightning visit to Japan, to meet the Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. It was there that Abe made a very significant statement: he said that Japan would shift a large number of factories from China to India. This would obviously involve large-scale investments and technology the like of which India has never seen before.

Abe, in doing so, was not espousing a new concept but actually resurrecting an old one which lay at the basis of the Japanese southward push in Asia during the World War II.

The cultural links between Japan and India are not widely realised. The practical religion of Japan is Zen Buddhism, which can be best described as the distillate of Buddhist principles regarding meditation and concentration. When high level business executives get stressed with work, they often retire for a period into Zen monasteries so as to achieve tranquillity.

Japan today is on a sort of warpath because of the belligerency which China has shown in the seas of Southeast Asia

Japan today is on a sort of warpath because of the belligerency which China has shown in the seas of Southeast Asia. Having benefitted from large-scale investments and technology transfer from Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and the USA, China has now turned around and started dictating terms to its former benefactors.

While China gained from the technology transfer that Japan and the USA provided to setting up industries on Chinese soil, it developed an admirable range of military technology (including space and nuclear) on its own. The result is that China has emerged as a military superpower which rivals the world’s best, and which includes highly sophisticated weapons such as stealth bombers and drones.

During World War II, Japan created a string of puppet states under its hegemony. This included the Heads of State of several countries including Manchuria, China, Burma, The Philippines, Thailand and significantly, Azad Hind.

Subhash Chandra Bose was recognised as the Head of the Provisional Government of Free India called ‘Arzi Hukumat-e-Azad Hind,’ better known as simply ‘Azad Hind’.

Large numbers of Japanese pilgrims visit Buddhist shrines in India. When I lived in Madhya Pradesh in the 1960s, trains used to stop at Sanchi to enable groups of Japanese pilgrims to visit the famous complex of Buddhist temples and highly decorated gates; this included the Great Stupa built in solid stone by Emperor Ashoka. The stupa is said to contain relics of the Buddha. In recent decades, main Buddhist centres in India like Bodh Gaya which has the gigantic Mahabodhi temple, have been renovated and modernised to provide up-todate facilities for pilgrims.

India, within the last forty years, has proven itself to be an industrious country which has shown its mettle in science and manufacturing. Japan’s collaboration in Indian industry is exemplified by the Suzuki-Maruti range of cars which is India’s best-selling vehicle (ten million have already been sold). The transfer of more Japanese industries to India can render a win-win situation for both countries.

Take the case of the manufacture of steel. By locating steel plants in India, the cost of transporting coal and iron ore from Australia will be dramatically reduced, as currently those raw materials are transported to Japan. India will be able to provide much lower labour costs as well as proven technical personnel.

The transport costs for the finished product will also be greatly reduced to markets in the Middle East and Europe on the one hand, and to Southeast Asia and Australasia on the other. This could dramatically reduce the price of steel in the world.

The transfer of more Japanese industries to India can render a winwin situation for both countries

At the time, the Azad Hind concept was popular in India which was impatient for independence, and as its leader, Bose was glorified as a national hero. This adoration of the INA continues to this day. However, Mahatma Gandhi was not in favour of the idea of the military liberating India, stating that he could not favour exchanging one form of slavery for another.

Japan was then parading itself not as an aggressor, but as the liberator of Asian colonies from their European and American masters. The Greater East Asia Conference

Such steel plants could be the focus of other, particularly metallurgical, industries which would gain from both reduced labour costs and savings with regard to transport to the Middle East, Europe, Southeast Asia and Australia.

The flowering of such ‘coprosperity’ between Japan and India is very tempting for both countries. India should however, tread carefully so that China is not antagonised. An Asian Peace Treaty is a possibility which must not be allowed to be missed because of the land and sea disputes which are casting clouds on several horizons. India must, in the meanwhile, increase its military strength with defence as its principal aim.

A koan for a happy life

A simple strategy to cope with those times in life when we are stuck in a seemingly hopeless situation

By SAROJA SRINIVASAN

A‘ koan’ is defined as a paradox to be meditated upon that is used to train Zen Buddhist monks to abandon ultimate dependence on reason, and to force them into gaining sudden intuitive enlightenment.

In everyday life we may not actively seek spiritual enlightenment, but we certainly need ideas and strategies to get through an impasse, when we feel ‘stuck’. Every situation that produces uneasiness and conflict within our minds needs attention within a framework that will help reduce this uneasiness. At such times we need to ask ourselves, “What is my expectation of this situation?”; “What limitations do myself and others involved have?”; “I need to accept limitations however unacceptable they are, by limiting my expectations”.

To maintain peace within oneself, regardless of whatever the situation may be, applying a simple koan of three inter-related words summarises the direction we may need to take. At a point when things are at a standstill, our

thinking has to change if we have to progress.

These three words are: Expectations, Limitations and Acceptance - accept limitations; limit expectations; expect the unacceptable.

Acceptance

This word seems to appear in our thoughts in a negative way – passive, giving in, inaction, failure, dejection, long suffering, uncomplaining, compromise and a sense of hopelessness. Yet, whatever situation we find ourselves in, the undeniable fact is that we are already there. Often we are unable to retract immediately, or may not be able to even in the future. We act within the ‘given’ of that moment, maybe through outward actions like impulsively saying something rude, acting in a hostile manner, or privately thinking of someone’s action in a negative way and later finding it to be wrong.

At such times, the only avenue to move forward is to start at that point. This requires taking stock of everything instantaneously, and accepting the given of that moment. For example, being in a situation that has become difficult many years after a decision was made and finding it intolerable at present, one may not be accepting of it and go back to delving into the past, often ruminating ‘if

only…’, ‘maybe…’ which is totally fruitless, and in fact only increases present frustration.

In relationship conflicts, many find that even after repeated requests for others to change, or even after being verbally harsh, they do not even make an effort. The only solution would be to accept the person as they are, and not how you would like them to be. Accept, keep cool and move on.

Limitations

In an ideal world we do not have any limitations – mentally the capacity of our brain and mind is so vast and untapped that anything is possible within the confines of one’s mind. The common saying, ‘the sky is the limit’ cannot always be applied to everything. On a practical level, limitations abound. From the trivial to the most profound, life constantly throws at us circumstances that are totally beyond one’s choice or volition.

The limitations that confront us may be financial, physical or geographical. We may lose our capacity to earn an income or as we age, we cannot do many things as well or as fast as we did earlier. These are limitations; we can win over some, but not others. Such limitations may be present for others with whom we live or work.

Repeatedly we try to overcome

limitations that are beyond changing, and feel frustrated. We may be aware of alternatives for some of these issues, but we are unwilling to accept them. We constantly keep moving the goalpost, wanting better things or have a fanciful hope that somehow things will change despite the odds against us. We have limitations and so do others, and we need to accept them.

Expectations

We all have expectations, some appropriate and some not; some realistic, others fanciful. People will often say they do not have any expectations – it’s not true. We do have expectations, either of ourselves or others. More often than not it is in our expectations of others that our disappointments arise. For perfectionists, it is their expectation of themselves that creates problems. We expect most people to behave responsibly, respectfully or with understanding. Others expect the same of us. Sometimes these expectations come from social conditioning within our own subcultures that have become ingrained, a right to be demanded. This is where problems arise. Many expectations that were appropriate earlier in different circumstances, may not be appropriate now. For example, the roles within the

family in a changing world may be completely different to what they were when one was growing up.

Even if some of these expectations seem unreasonable, we continue to hold onto them. Perfectionists expect themselves and others around them to be perfect in everything all the time. Surely this is almost impossible, for many things have several unknown limitations of which we may not even be aware. The sense of disappointment and frustration when unreasonable expectations are not met, is indeed profound.

In a positive sense, high personal expectations can motivate people to make concerted efforts and persevere to achieve great heights, but when they are unreasonable they completely backfire and can be distressing.

We need to limit expectations of ourselves and others; accept limitations and sometimes, expect that unacceptable things will happen.

Somehow applying this koan to any situation, however trivial, allows one to navigate through the journey of life, enjoying calm seas and riding through everyday storms.

From the trivial to the most profound, life constantly throws at us circumstances that are totally beyond one’s choice or volition

Fixing up for the finals

It’s the halfway mark for Year 12 students, as they prepare for the dash to the finish

stress levels, which ultimately leads to poorer outcomes. Talk to your kids without judging them as a parent. Letting them talk about their anxiety is a great way to get rid of it.

3. Routine master: Become a routine master! Make sure their sleep is regulated, without phones or the computer or TV. Early to bed and early to rise – this has a great impact on balancing hormones, which ultimately keep them happier and healthier. Keep a study schedule, so that they are conscious of their ‘break’ times and can focus better when studying.

4. Exercise: At least 20-30 minutes of high cardio exercise is recommended daily. This increases focus, elevates the regulation of happy hormones, increases confidence and decreases potential depression and other niggly health problems.

Studies have shown that increased continuous emotional stress can lead to a variety of diseases and health problems for students

By KUDRAT SINGH

As we reach the midyear mark, it’s ‘go’ time for this year’s HSC/VCE batch of students. Along with the hope and optimism of a ‘free’ life post-school, also comes the stress and anxiety of preparing for the Year 12 final exams. The exams that are meant to determine

their futures and the rest of their lives.

Okay, okay, so it’s not all gloom and doom. The Year 12 exams are high pressure and do determine how many options your child may have available to them next year, but they are not the most important thing in the larger picture of life.

Studies have shown that increased continuous emotional stress can lead to a variety of diseases and health problems for students.

To make sure your child is well prepared emotionally as well as

practically, here are some tips to ease the tension.

1. Recognise the category: Some children are naturally focused and driven, whilst others require a lot of prodding, encouraging and carrots to get them there. So the first thing to do is to recognise which category your child fits in, and encourage them accordingly.

2. Stay tuned: If your child’s behaviour or moods are completely out of the ordinary, there must be an underlying cause. Finals can bring out some of our greatest insecurities. These can cause unnecessary increases in

5. Diet: There are so many great natural remedies within our desi khanna that help prevent illnesses. So increase the garlic, turmeric and other spices in your cooking! Be sure not to indulge in high sugar and processed foods, as these lead to concentration difficulties and those pesky health issues. Soaking almonds overnight and consuming them in the morning is supposed to help with brain function and memory. As are walnuts, with the added benefit of lowering heart disease.

6. Social life: You may ask, what social life? But it is very important to ensure that your child has some time in their week to meet with friends, without books and exam pressure. Whether for just an hour or a day, it is important for them to switch off the ‘study’ part

Early to bed and early to rise – this has a great impact on balancing hormones, which ultimately keep them happier and healthier of their brain. Again, this leads to better focus and becomes a reward system for them.

These are just a few points to remember for the coming months leading to the final exams. Everyone handles stress in different ways, and while you may not understand the stress your child is facing, you can help them to handle it. And remember, success is not limited to exam results!

Having been successfully operating in Sydney for the past 20 and Melbourne for the past 12 years, Indian Link has now established a presence in Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth. We would like YOU to be part of our exciting growth! Appropriate remunerations paid.

So you have a passion for writing…. Indian Link Newspaper is seeking reporters in your city, to cover Indian community events, as well as India-related events in the mainstream.

Mozart magic inVienna

A historic city that abounds with memories of the legendary maestro

Amusical note welcomes us from the moment we enter the Hall of Mirrors inside Schoenbrunn Palace in Vienna.

It is from Mozart’s unforgettable creation Symphony no 40, played because it was in this particular room in 1762, that the six-yearold prodigy presented his first concert for Hapsburg Empress Maria Theresa. His legendary performance soon became the talk of the town and laid the foundations of his comet-like rise to fame.

This is one of many legendary tales that visitors encounter when visiting Vienna, the capital city of Austria, also touted as the ‘City of Music’. There is literary music in its very air, gifted by geniuses such as Hayden, Beethoven, Schubert and Strauss, all of whom at some point in their life lived, composed and played in this imperial city.

However, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart appears to dominate the scene. There are several sites in the city which are deeply associated with the maestro, and by visiting them you not only come closer to Mozart, but also capture most Viennese attractions.

The Schoenbrunn Palace was a very special place for the whiz kid, because it was from this location that the Salzburg-born composer not only began his rapport with the royals, but also commenced a life-long empathy with Vienna. This baroque palace, now a UNESCO cultural heritage site, was built in 1642 as the former summer residence of the powerful Habsburg dynasty. The rooms shown to the public are mostly decorated in Rococo style, with its walls and ceilings covered with white-lacquered surfaces ornamented with gold leaves. The Bohemian crystal chandeliers, white porcelain tile stoves, Indian and Persian miniatures and other eye-catching fittings and furnishings garnishing each of the 1400-odd chambers, simply proclaim the opulence of the rulers and their taste for art and culture.

Mozart, at the age of twelve, again performed for Empress

Maria who is regarded in Austria as the ‘mother of the nation,’ at the opulent Hofburg Palace, the Hapsburg’s winter residence in the heart of city. The vastness of this royal complex comprising of imperial apartments, museums, libraries, riding schools and churches, exhibits architectural development from Gothic to late 19th century styles, and is captivating. It is said that during the later reign of Emperor Joseph II when Mozart was living permanently in Vienna, he was a regular guest at this quarter. In commemoration of his long association with the royals, a statue of Mozart was erected in 1896, in the adjacent royal garden.

Mozart was born in 1756 in nearby Salzburg where he lived till 1781, before permanently moving to Vienna to pursue his career as a freelance musician and composer. One iconic site that intimately shares his life is the Stephansdom, the majestic cathedral revered as Vienna’s soul. It is here that Mozart married in 1782, his children were baptised, and after his untimely death in 1791, his body was blessed in the chapel within.

Mozart resided at various addresses in Vienna, but none of the buildings exist except the one at Domgasses 5, where he occupied the first floor apartment between 1784-and 1787. While living there he composed one of his most memorable operas, ‘The Marriage of Figaro’. Today, all floors of the building have been converted to a museum called the Mozarthaus Vienna. A shrine for his fans, the exhibits comprising of documents, pictures and memorabilia, provide comprehensive information not only about the composer Mozart, but also around him as a family man. While sensing the aura that surrounded this famous man, visitors also gather a good understanding about the cityscape and the lifestyle during his time.

It is interesting to note that while living in Vienna, Mozart began to organise his own concerts at various venues, inviting subscriptions from Viennese nobles of the time.

It started very well; in 1784 his concert was sold out, but three years later seats were empty. He started performing at local

SANDIP HOR

cafes and one from the time, Cafe Frauenhuber, still exists. It is close to the site at Rauhensteingasse 8, where he lived his last years until passing away in 1791. The original house in which Mozart began framing his unfinished piece Requiem, has made way for a modern department store, Kaufhaus, but the site hasn’t lost its moving significance. Large crowds still gather at the site and while waiting in silence, one can surely visualise the maestro playing his violin or piano inside an imaginary building. Mournfully they walk along the street along which the maestro’s funeral procession headed towards St Marx Cemetery, Mozart’s final resting place. Some extend their journey to St Michael Church where his resurrection service was held, and the story goes that Requiem was first heard during

that function.

Unfortunately Mozart didn’t have the opportunity to play at the State Opera House, one of the world’s most esteemed venues for musical soirees, as it was completed in 1869. However, no regrets for Mozart, as this grand auditorium opened with the performance of his famous Don Giovanni and recitals of several of his immortal compositions are regularly played there to mesmerise visitors. It is one of the best ways in which to end your odyssey to this musicloving city.

Clockwise from bottom left

Mozart concert at Vienna State Opera

Inside Vienna Opera House

Mozart concert ticket seller

Schonbrunn Palace

Cafe Mozart

Mozart statue

A sculpture inside the palace gardens

The legacy of the maestro extends to chocolate

Another way of getting around

are touted throughout the city by people dressed in period costumes. It doesn’t matter if you are not a connoisseur of classical music; an entry inside the large concert hall of the Opera House is a lifetime experience. Like me, you will be stunned by its lavish interior decorations that speak only of unmatched opulence.

Patrons dressed in their best evening wear, performers on stage in historical costumes and traditional wigs, and the sound of music from their ensemble of violins, pianos and cellos, enshrines

the entire audience in a magical atmosphere.

Something interesting happens to me when Symphony no 40 is played. It reminds me of a popular Hindi film song, Itna na mujhse tu pyar karo by Talat Mahmmod and Lata Mangeshkar from 1961, from the Bollwood blockbuster Chayya. The tunes appear to be almost the same. Through later research, I find that music director Salil Chowdhury was so inspired by Symphony no 40 that he skilfully introduced the melody in his song for the film, thus making both Mozart and the song memorable forever among lovers of music.

Travel noTebook

VIENNA

GETTING T h E r E

Fly Singapore Airlines (www.singaporeair.com) via Singapore direct to Frankfurt or Munich, from where Vienna is well connected by train (www.raileurope.co.in). The trains in Europe are very comfortable and the journey provides a spectacular acquaintance with European countryside.

ACCommodATI o N

Ring Hotel (www.theringhotel.com) at Ringstrasse is located close to the city’s iconic sites

b EST TI m E To v ISIT

July to October

mor E INF ormATI o N

www.vienna.info

I-Day, style-day

Celebrate Independence Day with your very own Indo Australian fusion creation

By K ALyANI WAKHARE

It is remarkable how we are influenced by the fashion and style of the country we live in, and how easily we adapt this into our own personal style over time. However, our cultural heritage is timeless and so very special to us that we look forward to celebrating festivals and occasions, and love sporting traditional outfits to these.

Typically, weekdays probably see you in pencil skirts and pantsuits busy at work, or tunics and leggings paired with boots, rushing to finish numerous errands, before you pick up the kids from school.

Sometimes, I’m sure that like me, you wait eagerly for that weekend soiree to dress up in a gorgeous suit or swish around in an exquisite sari! Don’t we all love an occasion to flaunt our splendid Indian wardrobe and jewellery to match!

Ever wondered how you’d successfully sport an IndoAussie fusion look that is effortlessly chic? Come a day like Independence Day, it’s your perfect chance to try a new look!

Contemporary Australian fashion is all about looking and feeling stylish in a relaxed and smart-casual manner. Traditionally inspired by the Far East more so than Europe, Australian fashion has always included prints and flowing forms in their outfits. And that’s what makes the fusion challenge much easier!

The key to a great fusion outfit is to blend the Indian piece seamlessly; trying too hard or adding too many pieces will only ruin the look. So how do you do it? Here are four easy pointers to get the look right.

1. Indian prints

Indian prints are so distinct and charming that you would create an instant winner with delicate paisley printed pants or a bandhani (tie and dye) skirt. The rest of your outfit can then be fairly plain with a neutral coloured flowing top, paired with a smart tote bag. One could safely say that printed kurtis paired with jeans is almost the uniform for contemporary urban

Indian women; this one’s a nobrainer fusion look for sure! Quirk it up by pairing the kurti top with coordinated coloured denim.

2. Colour

When we think of Independence Day, the colours that come to mind straight away are saffron, white and green. Can you actually team these up to create a look dedicated to patriotism? Ok, it’s not as outrageous as it sounds. One way to do it elegantly is to just wear a white or beige shirt with jeans, and throw in a subdued green scarf and a lovely banjara mirror-work orange bag. Wear your fancy wedges or sandals and finish this look in style with a pretty set of silver and oxidised metal bangles.

3. Jewellery

That brings us to the next and perhaps one of the most important elements of an Indian look, jewellery. Statement necklaces are all the rage right now and you’ll be surprised how easy these are to work into a shirt ‘n’ jeans look, or even with a pretty evening dress. Indian jewellery is so versatile be it kundan, delicate gold and silver, or pearls. You can instantly glam up an outfit with pretty stone earrings, intricate bracelets or tantalising anklets.

4. Accessories

If you are not able to identify your style in any of the above, I’m sure this one will have you nodding your head and smiling, because it can’t get simpler than this. Yet I promise these accessories can’t be underestimated at all! I’m talking about scarves with Indian prints and colours; just adding this one piece to an outfit will instantly make your fusion look complete, irrespective of whether it’s silk, wool or chiffon. The other easy accessory is an exclusive Indian clutch with embellishments, perfect arm candy, you will agree! And last but not least is footwear. Attractive Indian sandals, mojris or kolhapuri chappals all work magic in an Indian fusion look.

So go out there with confidence, sporting a fusion outfit to your Independence Day gathering and leave your friends spellbound by your super-stylish look!

Traditionally inspired by the Far East more so than Europe, Australian fashion has always included prints and flowing forms in their outfits

You can instantly glam up an outfit with pretty stone earrings, intricate bracelets or tantalising anklets

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Food for your face

ome tricks and tips

I been told by models, friends, aunts etc. over the years that really do work!

Coconut oil and soapnuts

For those of you who grew up in India, many of you might have had grandmothers who bathed you when you were a child. Well, my naani used to wash my hair for me till I was about eight. She had a simple but effective ritual for really soft hair.

On Friday nights, she would oil my hair with coconut oil and then gently massage it in. Saturday mornings would see her boil a few soapnuts to make a shikakai solution. This natural soap would rinse out the oil and leave my hair

An edible scrub

baby soft. Unfortunately, these days, with our over-dependence on shampoos and conditioners, no one really follows this old method of washing hair. But, if you have the time and patience, and can find soapnuts or a natural solution made from them, try washing your hair with them and you won’t need conditioners.

Shampoo and conditioner

“When you wash your hair, massage the roots with shampoo to clean the scalp,” the model Mehr Jessia, now the wife of Arjun Rampal the actor, once told me during an interview.

“When you condition it, make sure you condition the ends. The scalp needs to be kept clean and the ends of the hair need the conditioning the most”. It is a tip I practice to this day and make sure I condition the ends of my hair more liberally than I do the rest of the strands. This prevents knotting and my hair doesn’t develop split ends.

Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise

When it comes to skincare, you will find that everyone has a tip to give you. Not all are effective. A very kind lady, who made her own skincare products and ran a beauty salon offering specialised treatments once told me that to have good looking skin in your forties, you should start looking after it in your twenties. I happened to interview her when I was in my twenties, luckily for me. I started a ritual of moisturising my face and neck back then and now it is a habit. Just as one uses deodorant after a shower, similarly I use a skincare cream. The brands have changed over the years, but the ritual hasn’t.

Milky mask

Another skincare tip a friend gave me which also works is a simple face pack you can make at home. Take a teaspoon of dairy whitener and mix it with water to form a thick paste. Apply all over face and neck and leave till it dries. You will feel your facial skin begin to tighten as the pack dries up. Then splash your face with water or stand under the shower to rinse it off. Do not scrub it off with your hands. Used daily, this face pack, along with a weekly exfoliator, will remove blemishes from your skin. It will also leave your skin soft and moisturised, as milk is a natural moisturiser. If you don’t believe me, just try it for two weeks and see for yourself. It is the one skincare tip I follow religiously. And it saves me the bother of going to a parlour for a facial.

A natural scrub we used as kids for our face was a mixture of besan (gram flour), a pinch of turmeric and a tablespoon of milk. The besan is a natural exfoliator, the turmeric is an antiseptic and the milk is a moisturiser. You can clear your skin of dead cells without drying it of its natural softness, and the turmeric keeps blemishes at bay. For any of you wanting to go back to the natural way of life, this is one of the best scrubs you can find. Make it fresh everyday five minutes before you shower. Beats anything that comes out of a bottle or a tube.

Too much sun

If you have ever been sun burned with too much time under the sun on the beach, then you know how painful it is when the skin starts to heal. You don’t want even the lightest of fabrics to touch your skin. But a couple of remedies that help relieve sunburn can be found in your kitchen.

The first one is milk. Yes, just take half a cup of cold milk and dab a piece of cotton in it. Apply this milk all over the sunburnt portions of your body. Wait till the milk dries, then reapply. A shower with lukewarm water after a few doses of this treatment will make your skin feel better.

Another tip is to take kokum (the souring agent we use in dals) and soak it in a cup of water. When the water turns a dark pink, apply onto the skin like the milk. It is a great remedy for sun burn as well, I’ve discovered from personal experience, but I prefer the cold milk treatment. It works much faster.

If any of you wish to start using skin and haircare products that are natural and chemical free, there are solutions available all around. Just start with asking the oldest female member of your family and you will find your answers.

Well, my naani used to wash my hair for me till I was about eight. She had a simple but effective ritual for really soft hair

A natural scrub we used as kids for our face was a mixture of besan (gram flour), a pinch of turmeric and a tablespoon of milk

These all natural beauty tips range from soapnuts, besan, milk, turmeric and kokum, and will help to keep your body beautiful without chemicals

MINNAL KHONA

Hot off the plate

The latest in immigration news in Australia

The past few weeks have been dominated by immigration related news items in the media, as well as in the Australian federal elections campaign stage. Here are some eye catching news items.

Large-scale fraud of visa system by Indian workers and students

The ABC has revealed that thousands of Indian students, skilled workers and 457 visa holders have been admitted to Australia on dodgy travel and work documents. The internal audits show fraud rates approaching 50%.

“Around the periods of 2008, 2009, 2010 the fraud levels were quite considerable, a matter of real concern and things have since changed,” says the DIAC.

Criminal conviction for fraud and cancelling of visas

The first criminal conviction in Australia using false qualifications to obtain permanent residence took place on July 6, 2010. Since then the DIAC is continuing

investigations and they have started cancelling visas, including visas of permanent residents.

The department has submitted a substantial number briefs of evidence and more are expected.

An investigation of this size has never previously been conducted by DIAC. In the past 12 full time staff have been allocated to the investigation. So far, 23 unregistered migration agents have been investigated, 200 employers, and in the past about 3000 GSM visas applications were recommended for refusal.

It is unfortunate that even some migration agents (registered or unregistered) who are under investigation (who are known in the society as fraudsters) are still operating.

Fraud Public Interest

Criterion PIC 4020

DIAC may issue notices and letters to people who are suspected of fraud to comment based on natural justice provisions. Such people must immediately seek proper legal advice. Please note that not all immigration agents are not

lawyers (85% of agents may not be lawyers).

Website information

From 1 July 2013, the Migration Regulations 1994 (‘the Regulations’) were amended or changed.

An enormous amount of statutory (and other) material has been released. The statutory changes can be found at; www.comlaw.gov.au

This site contains the only database of Australian Government legislation that is authoritative. No other website in the world can make this claim. Other websites including the department of immigration (DIAC) and the DIAC policy, should not be treated as the correct version of law and a fact finding legal body would not treat DIAC website information and its policy as law, but only the legislation. The ultimate responsibly of interpreting the law is in the hands of the courts.

Occupation lists

Some of you are aware that the occupations list were changed

on 1 July, 2013, however, the Australian Workforce and Productivity Agency is already considering which occupations should be removed or added to the list next year. Once again they have flagged the occupation of accountant for possible removal.

A link for related information: www.dlegal.com.au

457 Temporary Work visa

There have been substantial changes, some with retrospective effect. The requirements that must be satisfied vary depending on a number of factors including the entry stream under which the Subclass 457 visa is being applied for. The most controversial of them all are the new English language requirements. Before 1 July, 2013, most occupations were exempt from the English language requirement, with the exception of technicians and trade workers.

The new requirements apply to applications lodged before 1 July, 2013, that are still being considered by DIAC or which have been refused, and which are the subject of a Migration Review Tribunal review application.

The Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) has increased from $51,400 to $53,900. New Skilled Occupations Lists that are applicable is Schedule 1 and

Schedule 2, which make the Consolidated Skilled Occupation List (CSOL).

Before 1 July, 2013, sponsors were able to sponsor/nominate an unlimited number of Subclass 457 visa holders, but since that date employers are restricted to sponsoring the number of Subclass 457 workers that was approved in their sponsorship application for the term of their sponsorship. Unlike in the past, now people intending to migrate should be on the lookout at all times and need to plan their strategy well in advance. It is also recommended to consult an experienced and reputed migration lawyer, rather than a nonlawyer migration agent. Dinesh Weerakkody is an Australian solicitor and a barrister and an immigration agent. Contact on: info@dlegal.com.au or visitwww.dlegal.com.au

ma ma ma Masala!

Masala Craft Indian Restaurant opened in June 2008, and has since grown in leaps and bounds. The owner and head chef Mr Atul Khore, with his vast experience, and outstanding team, has worked for numerous restaurants around the world, and has been the main driving force behind the successful establishment.

With over 15 years of experience across the globe, ranging from India, Germany, Dubai, Australia, and even a cruise ship, you will not be disappointed by a visit to the restaurant.

Masala Craft showcases the finest Indian Cuisine, which are delectable traditional dishes with a contemporary twist. They specialise in authentic North Indian, South Indian and Maharashtrian dishes.

The recently launched exciting lunch menu (11.00am to 3.30pm), features popular Indian snacks, such as Thalippeth, Masala Dosa, Misal Pav, Kachhi Dabeli, Chole Bhature, Kathi Roll and more.

Freshness is the key to an excellent dish, and Masala Craft

knows a lot about that. They exclusively use fresh vegetables, herbs, and meats, and carefully blend exquisite spices to make food appealing and oh so very tasty.

All of the dishes practically explode with unique flavours in your mouth.

And for all of you party animals, the good news is they cater for functions and parties for up to 120 people.

They could do a romantic dinner, a birthday, your wedding reception, a community gathering, a business lunch, or any other occasion under the sun. Any occasion that you choose at Masala Craft will be a special day or night to remember because of their ambience, fantastic dining, friendly staff and impeccable service. And all with a fully loaded bar.

851 High Street, Thornbury 03 9495 1188

Mon-Sun 11am-11pm

(including home delivery) www.masalacraft.com.au www.facebook.com/pages/ Masala-Craft

For the love of lamb!

A variation of this much loved viand will chase away winter chills, writes

Winter is the time for hearty, wholesome, warming meals, especially when the sky is overcast and there’s an Arctic chill in the air. Lamb is now thought of as a meat for all seasons, but during winter, the traditional Aussie lamb roast, slow-cooked rack of lamb or lamb shanks in gravy are sure to chase away the cold. To warm up, you could try a lamb curry or lamb rogan josh. But for a change, how about moving further east and bringing a touch of Middle Eastern or Mediterranean warmth into your palate. You’ll find these recipes redolent of sunny skies and swaying palms. So enjoy getting warm this winter with these exotic lamb recipes.

Lamb Passanda

2 kg boneless lamb, cubed

4 inch ginger piece

6-8 garlic cloves

4 large onions

4 tbsp cumin

4 tbsp coriander

1 tsp turmeric powder

4 cloves, crushed

2 tbsp oil

8 cardamoms, crushed

125 gms blanched almonds

125 gms cashew nuts

800 mls coconut milk

2 cups water

Juice of 1 lemon

Salt and pepper to taste

In a large heavy bottomed casserole, fry the nuts in half the oil until they are brown. Blend in a food processor until finely chopped. Set aside. Roughly chop the ginger, garlic and onions, and puree in a blender. Next, brown the meat in batches in the same

oil, adding more, if needed. Keep aside. Add the onion mix to the oil, frying on medium flame until it turns dark brown. Add all the spices and cook for two minutes. Add the lamb to the mix again, then add the coconut milk and water. Bring to the boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 90 minutes or until the meat is tender. Add the lemon and season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve with rice or naan

Mediterranean Lamb

700 gms lamb, cubed

3 tbsp oil

1 onion sliced

2 cloves garlic, crushed

1 tsp tomato puree

700 mls meat stock

1 red pepper sliced

¼ finely chopped parsley

2 tbsp cake flour

1 lemon, juice and rind

100 gms soft butter

3 tbsp mixed herbs – parsley, oregano, rosemary (dried or fresh)

1 medium sliced French loaf

Salt and ground black pepper to taste

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees and lightly grease an ovenproof casserole with a little butter. In a separate bowl, mix the butter with herbs, and spread it on one side of the bread slices. Set aside. Mix the cake flour with salt and pepper according to your taste. Next, heat oil in a saucepan and brown the meat cubes. Set aside. Saute onions and garlic in the same saucepan. Add meat, add cake flour, and stir. Add stock and tomato puree, and bring gently to a boil. Transfer the mix to the casserole, cover and bake for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven, add the juice of lemon, chopped red pepper and fresh

parsley, mixing together lightly. Arrange the slices of bread on top of the mixture, herb side up and bake for 35-40 minutes until the meat is tender and bread topping is golden brown. Serve hot.

Easy Arni Souvlaki

1 leg of lamb cubed

½ cup olive oil

¼ cup vinegar

Juice of 1 lemon

2 tsp dried oregano

2 cloves garlic, crushed

3-4 bay leaves, cut into smaller pieces

Salt and pepper to taste

Place lamb in an earthenwear or glass dish. Add all the ingredients, mix well and cover. Leave to marinate for 12-24 hours, stirring meat occasionally. When ready to cook, thread lamb onto metal skewers and cook under a hot grill or over a glowing charcoal barbeque, turning and basting frequently with marinade juices. Grill for 15 minutes or until cooked to your taste.

Arabian rice with lamb

For the rice

250 gms basmati rice

6 cardamoms

1 medium stick cinnamon

10 mls vinegar

1 tbsp rose water

1 tbsp saffron water

2 tsp fried onion

4 tsp roasted nuts

4 tsp fried raisins

For Arabic masala

1/2 tsp turmeric

3 tsp paprika powder

2 tsp peppercorn powder

4 tsp cumin powder

1 tsp grated nutmeg

1 tsp coriander powder

½ tsp clove powder

1 tbsp cinnamon powder

1 tsp chilli powder (optional)

For the lamb

4 lamb shanks

50 gms ghee or oil

2 tbsp Arabic masala

120 gms yellow lentils

2 tomatoes, cubed

1 red chilli

1 small onion

2 cloves garlic

Lamb stock

Boil the rice in water with the cardamom, cinnamon, salt and a little vinegar. When cooked, toss the rice with the saffron and rose waters, and add the fried onions, raisins and nuts, mixing gently and thoroughly.

Arabic masala thoroughly, and keep aside. Any extra can be bottled for future use. Rub the lamb shanks with a mixture of the ghee, masala, salt and pepper. Coat the bottom of a deep bottomed oven proof casserole with the lentils, tomatoes, and chopped chilli, onion and garlic. Place the lamb shanks over the mix and add stock until the shanks are just covered. Bring the mixture to a boil. Cover and put the casserole in the oven to cook for about 1 ½ – 2 hours at 180 degrees. Cook until the meat is tender. When serving, place the lamb in a bed of warm rice and serve hot. This recipe can be prepared in a slow cooker too.

Mr KALELU

International spiritual healer psychic medium and dream translator Are you having any of these problems: love, relationship, facing divorce, family problems success in business, career, spate of bad luck, personal worries, court cases, impotency, breaking curses, witchcraft and many more...

I F S o T h EN CALL KALELU TodAy F or h ELP

N ow o N : 04 69 36 75 12

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He captured the magic of Aishwarya Rai when she got back home after winning the Miss World crown in 1994.

Now AP GUrUSWAMy captures beautiful moments in melbourne’s Indian community!

In his 40-year career experience as a professional photographer in India Guruswamy covered news, corporate events, large scale events and celebrities.

For stunning images of your next big event, call Guruswamy on 0406 820 413.

MATrIMONIALS

SEEkING GROOMS

Seeking Sikh boy for Sikh Kamboj girl 5’2’’ /1980 post graduate. brother and sister well settled abroad, good cultured family. Contact: +91 9464 117 500. Email: parampawan5@yahoo.com

Looking for a suitable match for my 37-year-old Gujarati sister. honest, beautiful, educated, issue less divorce. has custody of a child, currently living in India. Sincere responses welcomed from a well settled and educated hindu family. Please email details with a recent photo to: dipmis80@yahoo.com.au or call on: 0414 096 162.

Seeking suitable match for 36-yearold, who works for a multinational company in a senior position (chartered accountant). values both Indian and western culture. Seeking hindu professional man, preferably from a well settled family. Please email: ganesh2011v@gmail.com

Well settled family in Australia invites alliance for 26-year-old, 5”7, Punjabi girl (Australian Citizen), working as a lawyer for the Australian government. Seeking Indian boy, caste no bar. Please send biodata/ particulars of boy to: fordsyd88@gmail.com

SEEkING BRIDES

Fijian Indian male Australian citizen in mid forties invites correspondence from single Indian females (no kids) for marriage, and to settle in melbourne. If interested please contact on: 0478 083 457.

Parents seeking suitable match for Sikh ramgarhia clean shaven boy, born 1/03/1987, 5’6 ½”. working as a manager in hotel, he is a Permanent resident of Australia. Contact 9814 877 267 (India) or 0430 310 632 (Australia). Email: singhinderjit2014@gmail.com

Looking for appropriate match for my brother from a Kadva Patel Gujarati family who currently resides in India. 32-years-old, 5’5”, fair skin, never married. well-educated, non smoker/ non drinker. Always respects family values and culture. Caste no bar. responses welcome from India or Australia. residential status is immaterial. Please email your bio data to: hiral_patel109@yahoo.com or call me on: 0433 156 883

TAROT

ArIeS

March 21 - April 19

This month you will have a tendency to spend far too much. You are usually very careful with your finances so make sure you do not overspend. The cards are showing that you will be spending time with loved ones and friends and want to keep everyone happy. You may be feeling a little restless in your job. Speak to you superiors for a better position. Look after your health and eat healthy foods.

TAUrUS

April 20 - May 20

The cards are indicating a time of change around you. you may be looking at moving home or work. However, work will be satisfying later in the month, you just need to keep your mind on the job. There are a lot of things on your mind and a feeling of being restless. you will have some challenging moments in your relationships.

GemINI May 21 - June 20

this month is going to be very interesting for you. you may be thinking of taking a holiday or a break which you badly need. Take time out to solve difficult situations with your loved ones. With regard to your home, the cards are indicating some plans to get new furniture or decorative items. If you have started a gym regime, keep it up, as you need to keep an eye on your health.

cANcer June 21 - July 20

This month you will be very energetic and feeling good about yourself. The cards are indicating you may have some fluctuations in your health, so make sure you keep your health in peak condition. Keep your checkups up-to-date. Be careful not to get into any financial commitments that you do not want to get into. At work you will achieve great headway and your superiors will notice your good work.

Leo July 21 - Aug 22

This month the cards are showing a time of passion in every aspect of your life. you will be looking at new projects and working with all your efforts towards creating a more balanced working life. If you are in a relationship, your focus will be on making things comfortable at home. The first half of the month will be frustrating as you will want to spend time with others, but family commitments will come first.

VIrGo Aug 23 - sep 22

This month sees your enthusiasm on super turbo charge. you will be feeling very loved and wanted, as you have some lovely caring friends around you. There is also a special person who is showing you the right signals. There will be some developments with a project or work you are hoping to start. Children will be a little restless this month, as there are some problems at school that need to be dealt with.

predictions for AUGUST 2013

By NANcy JADe ALTheA www.cosmick-aura.com

LIbrA sep 23 - oct 22

The cards are indicating a time of putting a lot of plans into action. you have been thinking about making major changes at home, with your work/ family life balance. Financially you will feel a bit more relaxed, as you have enough to pay for your outgoings. you may have to get your car seen to, as it may need to be serviced. Romantically, you will be wanting a lot of attention this month.

ScorpIo

oct 23 - nov 21

The cards are showing a great hunger for success this month. you will be enthusiastic and motivated to achieve anything. Those of you who are working in the education field will be particularly successful this month. you may think of taking up a course to learn some new skills. your energy levels will be high and you will be feeling rather happy. Maintain an exercise regime.

SAGITTArIUS

nov 22 - dec 21

This month the cards are indicating a great month for career advancement and new possibilities. There will also be travelling this month, and you may decide to look at the possibility of a venture in another country. Financially you are managing to save a little money and you are feeling good about that. your love life needs to be spiced up… boredom sets in with you Saggi’s.

cAprIcorN dec 22 - Jan 19

This month you will be looking at ways of increasing your income. you will also be feeling healthy and relaxed as you are taking good care of your health and trying to lose those extra pounds. The cards are also indicating a time of travel. you will be thinking of purchasing a house or maintaining your current premises. There are a lot of exciting changes coming up for you this month.

AqUArIUS Jan 20 - feb 18

This month you will be feeling restless as there is a lot of pressure on you at work. you will have to take care and get enough rest as you have a lot of demanding work and projects to handle. Take care when driving, especially if you drive a red car. There is some news relating to a health test you took, which will be favourable. you will find little time for relaxing. The heat is on.

pISceS

feb 19 - March 20

The cards are showing a time when you will be taking more interest in spirituality meditation and chanting of some kind. you will be feeling stressed out, so will need to relax your mind and body. Taking a massage will be a very good idea. Relationships are a little on and off, but you need to decide what you really want. Start a savings plan.

cINe TALK

rUN To wATch

ThIS mArVeL

B HAAG M ILKHA B HAAG

STARRING: Farhan Akhtar, Sonam Kapoor, rebecca breeds, divya dutta, Prakash raj and Pavan malhotra

WRITER: Prasoon Joshi

DIRECTOR: rakeysh omprakash mehra HHHH

History is created in several ways. one of them is cinema. And if rakeysh omprakash mehra’s Bhaag Milkha Bhaag seems like a nearflawless homage to the flying spirit of India’s greatest runner, it is partly because the story, so nimbly woven into a pastiche of drama, emotion, humour and pathos by Prasoon Joshi, is in no hurry to keep pace with the onscreen milkha’s breathless sprint.

The story of super-sprinter milkha Singh unfolds in this exceptional biopic at its own volition. There’s no effort here “to tell a story,” to create an impression or to whip up a dramatic storm to captivate audiences. The synergy in the storytelling seems subliminal.

Still, we the audience, fed week after week on mediocrity masquerading as cinema, are riveted to the story of milkha Singh for over three hours of playing time.

how come? well, to begin with it is milkha Singh’s own powerful life as India’s superstar sportsperson that sweeps us into the biopic. milkha was so poor he couldn’t afford running shoes, and when he got them, he didn’t know how to run in them. when milk was offered in the army in exchange of running practice, he grabbed it (the run and the milk) with both hands.

A victim of India’s brutal partition, milkha’s story was waiting to be told. And thankfully, no one before mehra saw cinematic potential in his story. If milkha’s story had to be told, the storyteller had to be a master craftsman, and one who doesn’t waste space in selfcongratulatory flourishes.

with immense help from Prasoon Joshi, mehra harnesses milkha’s life-story into an experience that is pure cinema and yet undiluted and uncompromised by the mandatory, often silly, illogical and idiotic semantics of mainstream commercial cinema.

The seamless editing by P. bharathi is impressive. The film is very stylishly cut, but not at the cost of losing the simplicity and the innate asceticism of the sportsman-hero. And yes, there are songs composed by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy,

but they are so effortlessly woven into milkha’s saga that we don’t see them as “song breaks”.

This is as good a time as any to tell you that Farhan Akhtar does the bhangra as well as any Punjabi. Actually, he doesn’t dance. he just flows with the rhythm. I’ve never seen any actor dance with such rhapsodic abundance. Neither have I seen any actor run like Farhan.

I don’t know how fast milka ran, but Farhan’s milkha doesn’t fake it for even a second. when he runs, he really runs. when he stumbles and takes a fall, we flinch and wince in our seats. Farhan’s body language and emotions and expression as milkha is pitch-perfect.

Farhan doesn’t ‘play’ milkha. The actor occupies milkha’s mind, body and soul.

This isn’t just a film about a sportsperson who brought untold glory to our country. Bhaag Milkha Bhaag is the story of an individual’s journey from nullity to pinnacles of success in a world where politics and violence are constant reminders of how little an individual’s aspirations matter in the larger, often murkier scheme.

In Prasoon Joshi’s interpretation of milkha’s amazing success-story, yearning is the cornerstone to achievement. In 1947, when India became two nations, we see little milkha (Jabtej Singh) run for his life to escape the savage butchery that snatches away almost his entire family. only his dear sister, played wonderfully by divya dutta, remains. As we see it, milkha never stopped running.

The ‘run’ as a metaphor of life’s expedient circumstances, runs through the narrative.

happily, the screen time is as much taken up with milkha’s record-breaking achievements on the field, as it is with vignettes from his personal life. There is a robust heartwarming romance between milkha and the vessel-friendly ‘kudi’ biro (Sonam Kapoor, looking prettier than ever). The writer and director invest inexpressible warmth in the protagonist’s courtship scenes. we’ve seen this kind of love blossom on Punjab’s soil before. but it still feels special and unique.

Farhan does the rest. And he gets

tremendous support from other actors, specially divya dutta, who is incomparably sincere in her role. Pavan malhotra as milkha’s coach is as usual, first-rate.

Unlike other period films in recent times which have conveniently and lazily resorted to antiques, artefacts and vintage songs, the 1950s in Bhaag Milkha Bhaag simply and effortlessly emerge from the character and his milieu.

binod Pradhan’s camera glides across milkha’s inner and outer world, and tells it like it is. There’s a complex design to the seeming simplicity of this saga of a simple Sikh who would guzzle two cans of ghee on challenge and run to the winning post on feet mauled by jealous rivals.

who said life could ever be easy for those who aspire to fly higher than the rest? The beautiful irony of milkha Singh’s life that this consummate biopic captures so ably, is that he really didn’t aspire to anything. he ran simply because he had to.

The rest, as they say, is history. Bhaag Milkha Bhaag is the kind of cinema that doesn’t tempt us to share the protagonist’s life with any false hopes. we are driven into a desperate urge to share milkha’s life not only because he ran fast, but because he wasn’t afraid to stumble, falter and fall.

Ironically, this film on milkha rarely slips up, if ever.

S UBHASH K. J HA

fLAweD Gem fILLeD wITh LoVe, pASSIoN

LOOTERA

STARRING: Sonakshi Sinha, ranveer Singh

WRITER-DIRECTOR: vikramaditya motwane HHHHH

Abeautiful but deeply flawed film, the eagerly-awaited Lootera floors you with its audacious sensitivity and its tendency to use silences to punctuate emotions. Indeed, the sequences between varun and Pakhi, played with compelling intensity by ranveer Singh and Sonakshi Sinha, bristle at the seams with unspoken feelings. There are long passages of muted lyricism where silences are used to accentuate the growing passion between a lonely, emotionally and sexually insulated daughter of a feudal family in Kolkata, and the attractive stranger who walks into her life with the promise of passion, only to break her heart into wounding shards.

The love story, apparently inspired by American writer o henry’s short story

The Last Leaf, moves in mysterious ways, but often tends to lose its way in its

search for that elusive horizon where two socially, culturally and economically incompatible people in love, hanker to unite, but seldom do.

The film wears two distinctly ‘classic’ looks in bustling Kolkata and snowy dalhousie, both shot with discreetness by cinematographer mahendra Shetty. The Kolkatan periodicity of the 1950s relies excessively on extraneous props. Putting songs of Geeta dutt, mohammed rafi, hemant Kumar and Lata mangeshkar of that era in the backdrop is the easiest and laziest way to get the characters to “feel” the bygone era. I expected motwane to go further in his exploration of the theme of repressed love, but he seems to pull back at crucial turning points. when Pakhi’s lover deserts her on their engagement day, we don’t see Pakhi mourning with her doting father. we only hear her talking about it later. Sonakshi’s choked but dignified recrimination recreates unseen moments visually. yes, her performance is that vivid.

The film looks beautiful, yet comes dangerously close to skipping the soul, but for one clinching factor. Sonakshi Sinha. So far we’ve seen her

as a mass-appealing queen of blockbusters. Playing the ailing, dying Pakhi in Lootera she comes to a formidable level of histrionic nirvana not obtainable to any of her contemporaries.

Sonakshi penetrates her character’s bleeding loneliness with fearless integrity.

There are sequences and scattered shots where Sonakshi is captured in various postures of unbearable vulnerability. In a sequence of rebuffed ardour, she drops her dignity and drives down to meet the man who suddenly starts avoiding her.

“ will you come tomorrow? day after? Then the day after that,” she whispers in declining hope when he refuses her invitation to come home.

It’s a moment of pleading love that reminded me of Shabana Azmi’s celebrated telephone sequence in mahesh bhatt’s Arth ranveer Singh, though able and alert in his responses, seems to rely way too much on looking vulnerable, charming and rakish.

Lootera depicts a doomed passion that is at once invigorating and terrifying. Tenderness trickles out of

The bUSINeSS of UNfINISheD LIVeS

D-DAy

STARRING: rishi Kapoor, Irrfan, Arjun rampal, huma qureshi, Shruti haasan

DIRECTOR: Nikhil Advani HHHHH

Fragrant pencils and the stench of blood... Irrfan’s character identifies flavoured pencils with his undying love for his son even when his life is soaked in the blood of traitors. Funny how two entirely disparate experiences can co-exist in a work of art!

And make no mistake, Nikhil Advani’s sixth feature film, about the enforced extradition of a dawood-like gangster, is an acutely accomplished work of art. but what haunts most is the love between a mysterious Indian intelligence agent and a Pakistani sex worker, both wounded and scarred for life. She in ways that we can see, he more intangibly. but pain, at the end of the day, is pain.

Shot in expertly constructed brothel sets with the crowded colours of lurid sex suggesting the tragedy of lives lived in borrowed beds, the scenes between Arjun rampal and Shruti haasan are punctured by piercing silences and

a haunting melody about love, loss and incomplete lives, sung by rekha bharadwaj.

Later, the girl is tortured to painful death by a sadistic butcher, gleefully played by Chandan roy Sanyal.

In one of the most innovative editing techniques seen in recent times, we see the scarred prostitute’s torture and death through Arjun’s eyes as though he were there when it happened.

The love story could have been the entire script of the film. but D-Day - odd title since the antagonist is no more named dawood - has a lot more to say, and it says it with an enrapturing elan that invites us into its midst, without gimmicks.

The story of rAw agents on a mission in Pakistan to nab “India’s most wanted” is told in a tone that favours a detached distance from the proceedings while ensuring we see each character’s life in prismatic close-ups.

Every character in D-Day, even the dreaded bhai, is a prisoner of his own lost dreams and aspirations.

The rAw heroes are thrown in our face without elaborate preamble. The very attractive huma qureshi as the rAw agent Zoya has her personal life in

shambles. but we never see her unhappy husband.

we only hear himspeaking about their distressed relationship, in the voice of the very talented raj Kumar yadav.

Every character, visible or invisible, speaks to us in urgent desperate tones. These are people whose dreams can never come true.

As the plot progresses, it gets only more intriguing until from Karachi we reach, breathlessly, the Indian side of the border where rishi Kapoor gives a sneering speech on the Indian government’s inability to control terrorists and terrorism.

This is as good a place as any to say D-Day is crammed with remarkable actors furnishing the anxious proceedings with a riveting life-force. rishi as the gangster is, of course, first-rate. when is he anything less?

The other actors too are entirely in their element. Arjun and Shruti’s tragic love story is played out in muted shades. Arjun seems to become a more evolved actor with every role. As for Irrfan, his portrayal of a man on a suicidal mission trying to hold on

every pore of this beautifully crafted saga of a love so infinite and so forbidden that it seems to scoff at cruel fate and brutal destiny while carving out a craggy jagged path for the lovers.

vikramaditya motwane’s storytelling is like a coiled twirling stairway to the heart of his irreconcilable protagonists. The film’s muted silences suggest a deep connectivity between pain and love.

Sadly, in the midst all the underlying conflicts, poor o henry’s story is almost forgotten. The leaf-leitmotif shyly shows up at the end, making a hasty entry not too convincingly.

S UBHASH K. J HA

to the memory of his wife and son is so vivid you can touch his anguish.

Newcomer Sriswara is extremely credible as Irrfan’s wife, while huma is appealing and effective. Akaash dahiya as the fourth rAw team-member is so much on edge, you want to hold him back from toppling over.

The cinematography by Tushar Kanti ray uses cluttered garish spaces to create a sense of spiritual emptiness.

with this one film, Advani joins the ranks of the most accomplished young filmmakers of hindi cinema and by far Karan Johar’s dharma Productions proudest product.

S UBHASH K. J HA

The bUZZ

Poor turnout for Pran’s funeral

Although he has been hailed as the greatest villain in the history of bollywood, the turnout from the industry at Pran’s funeral was abysmal. Actor-politician Shatrughan Sinha made his disappointment clear, saying “I saw very few people from the film industry. A man who gave 70 years of his life to the film industry deserved a much heftier send-off”.

Sinha himself cancelled a trip to Patna to attend the veteran acting legend’s funeral. only a handful of people like Amitabh bachchan, Anupam Kher, Karan Johar, raj babbar and Shakti Kapoor came to pay their last respects to the 93-year-old actor. Certainly not bollywood at its best! Fortunately, Pran’s contribution to the hindi film industry is indelible and unforgettable. rIP, Pran saab!

proUD To be prAN

The man who gave a new status to villainy in Indian cinema is no more! Pran, the versatile actor who became a household name in the 1960s and ‘70s was a legend of bollywood. Pran saab as he was fondly called, had an illustrious career in the Indian film industry that spanned more than six decades, and saw him acting in over 400 films. on July 12, the veteran actor and redoubtable legend passed away after a prolonged illness.

Pran was a master of disguises. From the unforgettable smoke rings he created in the movie Badi behen, or as the flawless Sher Khan in Zanjeer with the trademark flicking back of his hair, Pran’s versatility as an artist was evident from the ease with which he portrayed various characters on screen, bringing them to life and making them imminently believable.

As malang Chacha of Upkaar, jailer raghuveer Singh of Kaalia or the Nepali Pyarelal of Kasauti, Pran gave each character his unique touch. his dialogues are still popular after years; remember ‘Barkhurdar!’ rendered in his baritone voice? his famous run-ins with the big b in Kaalia and Zanjeer are still remembered and revered.

Not many people know that Pran played lead roles in a few films like Khandaan, Halaku and Pilpili Saahib. Some of his famous movies included Madhumati, Jis Desh Main Ganga Behti Hai, Victoria No. 203, Be-Imaan, Johnny Mera Naam, Don and Duniya. Amitabh owes his role in Zanjeer to Pran, the turning point of the megastar’s career.

At the time Pran commanded more money than top stars, a rare feat even today, considering that his roles were mostly those of a villain.

A man of great discipline and immense talent, Pran was fond of Urdu poetry and sports like soccer, hockey and cricket, even financing his own soccer team, the d ynamos Football Club. Pran, a kind human being, once even offered to finance a training trip for Kapil dev to Australia, when the cricket board refused to do so.

with his natural good looks, charming mannerisms and rich baritone voice, Pran won millions of hearts globally. villains were at par with heroes in the hindi film industry, thanks to Pran. For him, it was the character that mattered the most, and not the fact that he was a hero or a villain. And he proved this true with his craft.

The fickle film fraternity had turned its back on Pran in the last decade or so. The veteran actor did not receive much recognition or even awards. Even the dadasaheb Phalke award came quite late, in 2013. It’s a real shame that bollywood failed to acknowledge this great artist much earlier. his demise has left a big void in Indian cinema that will be hard to fill. Artistes like Pran are born once in a lifetime.

we salute this legend for entertaining the masses for so long with quality work and his outstanding contribution to the hindi film industry. Pran lived up to his name, infusing life into all of the characters he played on screen. Even though he is no more, sweet memories and indelible performances will always linger on in our hearts.

Farewell, Pran saab! PERDy MOHINDRU

All about acting, by Vidya Balan

From a single mother to a sex symbol, vidya balan has portrayed a range of characters on the big screen, and she’s done a great job. And vidya finds living in another person’s world exciting. “I don’t think it (acting) is about proving oneself. It is about inhibating another person’s world, one you have not been in before. I think as an actor, living another person’s life is exciting,” said the talented actress recently.

her latest role was that of a plump, loud Punjabi woman with an unusual dressing sense in Ghanchakkar, and the actress says she always finds a way to connect with her characters, and managed to do with this one too.

“There is also a part of them, which I connect with. my character in Ghanchakkar is not someone who I could identify with initially, but the point of identification was that she was just happy with herself,” explained vidya. “I might not be happy with myself all the time, but I love people like that. you find that point of identification with the character”.

The movie didn’t rock the box office, but the critics and audience alike have praised vidya’s performance, and she finds this appreciation humbling.

“I feel humbled when people say that. I am just doing work, which I believe in,” said the actress who played central roles in Kahaani and The Dirty Picture, but didn’t mind playing second fiddle in Ghanchakkar

“In the movie, Sanju (Emraan hashmi) was the central character. I was not the protagonist. I was ok with that as I love the character. I don’t have set notions and don’t take on that kind of pressure. my only dream was to be an actor and I am living my dream to the fullest,” she said.

vidya is married to Siddharth roy

Kapur, managing director of Studios, disney UT v, but unlike her husband, she does not want to enter the production business.

“I don’t want to start producing films. I am very greedy about being an actor and I always have a producer at home,” she said.

what about creative satisfaction?

“After The Dirty Picture, I thought I had done everything that needed to be done. but I was even taken aback when rajkumar Gupta came to me with Ghanchakkar. I felt grateful to him that he could think of me in this diametrically opposite character. but he was also making a diametrically opposite film”.

Now vidya will be seen with Farhan Akhtar in Shaadi Ke Side Effects, another challenging avatar for the talented actress (and one which was filmed in Australia in parts). but perhaps vidya’s newly married status will help her identify with the role!

More to Milkha than just the moolah!

olympian athlete milkha Singh’s biopic didn’t get an overwhelming review, but the Bhaag Milkha Bhaag box office success has thrown the movie business into a tizzy. director rakeysh omprakash mehra admits that collection has indeed surpassed their expectations with the bio-pic raking in rs.55 crore in the first week with rs.3.58 crore collected in the second week in mumbai alone.

“our film’s reach has exceeded all our expectations. we knew milkhaji’s story would have a resonant emotional impact. but we couldn’t have guessed it would reach so far and wide,” said a surprised mehra.

Farhan Akhtar who plays title role in Bhaag Milkha Bhaag chronicling the life of athlete milkha Singh, was overwhelmed by the audience’s reaction to the film.

Vidya Balan

“I am just so happy. Acceptance and recognition of one’s effort is such a wonderful feeling,” he said. The bio-pic tells of the strife and struggle of Indian sprinter milkha Singh’s life. Even veteran actress Jaya bachchan couldn’t hold back her tears after watching a special screening of the movie. She seldom attends movie screenings these days, but made it a point to attend because of the family’s very close relations with the film’s director and Farhan.

“After the screening, she just couldn’t control her emotions. She called Farhan aside and wept openly, telling him he had lived the pain, suffering and triumph of milkha,” said a source.

Farhan refused to comment on Jaya’s emotional response to the film and his performance, saying it was a private moment. but when contacted, Jaya said, “I loved it. Farhan was brilliant. I enjoyed a film so much after a long time”.

And that’s not all - showing exemplary attentiveness to the film’s far-reaching inspirational impact, the maharashtra government recently granted tax exemption to the bio-pic. Naturally, mehra is thrilled, saying, “The film would

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now be accessible to those middle-class Indians who cannot afford the ticket prices at multiplexes. That thought makes me very happy”. The filmmaker hopes other states would follow suit and grant the movie a tax exemption too.

The immediate impact of the ace runner’s saga has also brought about a heightened interest in films related to sports and sportspersons. director omang Kumar is shooting a bio-pic on boxing olympic medallist mary Kom with Priyanka Chopra in the lead role, while Ekta Kapoor has bought the movie rights of the life of cricketer mohammed Azharuddin. And a biopic on the life of legendary hockey player dhyan Chand is in the pipeline.

An excellent way of telling the stories and struggles of India’s sporting greats, albeit the bollywood way. well, at least they are preserved for posterity!

An Iftaar surprise

A reconciliation between Salman Khan and Shah rukh Khan would have seemed

unlikely, after years of cold-shouldering each other. Since an incident at Katrina Kaif’s birthday bash in 2008 in which the two Khans began taking pangas at each other, they have refused to share space. So it was a surprise to all present when the actors shook hands and hugged each other openly at the Ifatar party of Congress leader baba Siddiqui recently. or perhaps they had no choice when Siddiqui asked them to meet each other! both Shah rukh and Salman seemed perfectly fine, the latter being the one who took the initiative to shake hands and hug Shah rukh. well, looks like another bridge has been built in bollywood! what’s next, a movie featuring the two? I doubt that!

Madras Cafe cleared by censors

Filmmaker Shoojit Sircar has heaved a sigh of relief now that his film Madras Cafe has been cleared by the censor board with a U/A certificate.

“ when I was making Vicky Donor, I was very worried about the censors. I thought, it’s a film that deals with sperms, which will get it an A-certificate, but thank God, things went well,” Sircar revealed. Vicky Donor released with a U/A certificate and the audiences liked the film so much that the rs.5 crore project earned rs.45 crore at the box office.

“The film didn’t look vulgar and sent across the message perfectly. Luckily, Madras Cafe, which has so much action has got a clean nod from the censors and has got a U/A certificate,” said the director. The movie is a political-thriller, and deals with terrorism and civil war. It was reportedly shot in Sri Lanka and India. Sircar requested the audience’s indulgence for enjoying the sequence of events in his forthcoming offering.

“I would request the audience not to leave their brains at home. bring your brains and do a bit of research before you come to watch the film,” he stated.

Featuring John Abraham, who has also produced the film, and Nargis Fakhri, the film is slated to release in mid-August. In a snippet, John has recently become the brand ambassador for reebok, and promises some really exciting stuff in the near future. John in action is certainly worth a dekko!

cApTIoN coNTeST

What’s the chitchat between Madhuri Dixit and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan? Send in your responses to win@indianlink.com.au and win a surprise prize

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What’s the chitchat between Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif?

Ranbir: I’m really enjoying the media buzz that’s linking the two of us romantically…

Katrina: I know, isn’t it funny!

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salman khan

Dear Auntyji

I am an ambitious and driven 40-year-old female and I would appreciate your insight. I have a 17-year-old niece, who I love very much. She is very bright and creative, but she continually frustrates me with not having any idea about what she wants to do with her life after high school. She wants to go to university, but she is unsure of what she wants to study. I find myself getting continually frustrated after each conversation with Cheyenne, because each time I offer her some ideas, she shoots them all down. It would appear that not only does she not know what she wants, she has no idea about what she does not want to do. Talking to her about her future goals is like an exercise in trying to decipher the conversation of two demented people on heroin. I don’t know how she can’t know what she likes or dislikes. If I say study medicine, she crinkles her nose. If I say study business, she grimaces. I suggest teaching, and she shrugs. So I find myself feeling frustrated, but fortunately, because I only see her every few weeks, I don’t express my irritation at her. I think that being so bright, she should live to her potential and achieve something useful - instead of being like her mum and staying at home. what are your thoughts Auntyji? what is your proposed solution for me? obviously, I love my niece very much and want her to be happy. Can you please give me some ideas on the best options here?

Auntyji says

hmm. I can completely see your dilemma here. Say nothing and have Cheyenne meander through life, not knowing what direction to take, or say something and have Cheyenne think you’re an interfering aunt. First things first. As much as you are driven and ambitious and you only want a happy, fulfilling future for your niece, this is her life. you are living your life exactly how you want to, and you can provide guidance to Cheyenne, but you must not impose your expectations on her. If she wants to go to university and have a high-powered job, that’s a decision she needs to make. If she wants to stay at home and have babies and raise them without putting them in daycare, then that is her option as well. I suggest you start by changing your thinking. you are there to provide guidance to Cheyenne, if she asks for it. If she doesn’t, then leave it at that. Cheyenne’s crinkling of her nose and shrugging of her shoulders are signs that she is probably being polite and not wanting to say to you that really, she does not want to talk about her future career, she is currently stressed out about her hSC. So your job is to support her by saying that whether she wants to be a doctor, lawyer, engineer or housewife, you will be there to help her if she needs you. Then leave it at that. And please, don’t make sarcastic comments to her about how she will end up as a mere housewife, because that is doubly insulting. So, I suggest you re-orient your thinking, and leave Cheyenne alone. Talk to her about things that will decrease her anxiety, not increase it. So talk about fashion or T v shows. Leave it at that. If you want to be a hip aunt, you will need to step up your game, girly, and learn that your drive and ambitions are yours alone. There is no rule that says that this needs to be passed to the next generation.

One potato, two potato…

Dear Auntyji

my sister-in-law makes the best mashed potatoes ever, and no matter how much I try to recreate it, I can’t seem to perfect the recipe. I have asked her for her recipe, but she makes excuses and does not give it to me. do you have a good recipe that you would like to share with me please, Auntyji? I love mashed potatoes and mostly have it for special occasions only (because I am mindful of getting fat). So can you help?

Auntyji says

o f course I can help you my little laccha paratha. I have a particularly good recipe that I am happy to share with you. but be mindful, this recipe is for those people who don’t eat mashed potatoes every day. If you eat this dish every day, very soon you too will become a golu matolu aloo yourself – all shapeless and jiggly with each step. To, pehle, take 4 medium unbrushed aloo. Now I am not fussed, but you will need to cook them till they are soft. you can cut them into chunks and boil them gently, or you can boil them whole, or steam them. Either way, the aloo must be cooked completely and drained well. Now, once cooked and while still hot, leave them in the pan, and add ½ cup of cream (the proper kind, not thickened) and about 75 grams of real butter (no margarine or any of that rubbish – get the best quality butter you can find). Then, mash it all up while on low heat. Turn off the heat and continue mashing until there are no lumps left. you can add a little more cream if the mixture appears a bit dry. The potatoes should be very fluffy and light. once done, add a dollop of butter to the middle, and let it melt. Then serve. you will find this mashed potato so rich and tasty that you will want to eat it by itself. which you should, but of course, with accompaniments, it is quite superb. Now remember, don’t do it that often, otherwise you will become a petu. Good luck with this recipe, I am sure you will love it very much. write to me and tell me how it turned out for you.

Thanks Da D !

Do you know a super special dad out there in the community who deserves the title?

Fathers are those special people who are like our rocks in life. They’re our foundation and are there to help us out in times of need.

That’s why at Indian Link we would like to invite nominations for our inaugural Indian Link Father fo the Year Award 2013 from the Australian Indian community. If your father, husband, brother, friend, or anyone you know is a very special dad, you may want to nominate them for this award.

How to enter?

Tell us in 300 words or less why your nominee should win. Include photographs of the nominee, and any supporting documents.

Email entry to: win@indianlink.com.au

Get your entry in by 5pm on August 25, 2013 Prize?

The award-winning father will receive special prizes including $500 from Indian Link.

The award winner will also feature in the September edition of Indian Link, as well as on Indian Link Radio.

Criteria for nominations

The nominee must be currently living in Australia as a permanent resident or an Australian citizen. The nominee must have certain special qualities that make him stand out from the crowd. Employees, as well as friends of family of employees of Indian Link cannot enter the competition.

We look forward to seeing your nominations!